Conference Call

Yes, they are now saying the CRA/Fannie/Freddie disaster was one the Democrats lobbied for, one that McCain attempted to avert in 2005, and that McCain's efforts were blocked by a party-line vote.

And that, in turn, lead to the 700 billion bailout.

"All roads lead back to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac."

They are focusing on regulation of Fannie and Freddie -- conceding, implicitly, that sure, Republicans are generally reluctant on regulation, but not on this issue.

"This could have been averted."

Who's on?

Congressman Paul Ryan, (R -- WI)
Peter Wallison, AEI Scholar
Doug Holtz-Eakin, Senior Policy Adviser, McCain-Palin 2008

Obama's lying, McCain attempted regulation, but Obama, with his silence, abetted Chris Dodd.

Moe Lane of Red State: Will Palin be doubling McCain on these issues, or making other attacks?

(Answer: Um... unclear. She'll be drawing similar distinctions. Doesn't answer really directly.)

My Question: McCain has been reluctant to get into this issue previously. What caused the change?

Doug Holtz-Eakin, Senior Policy Adviser, I believe, answers. He disputes the premise that McCain has been reluctant to defend himself, saying the campaign has always been very clear on the roots of the crisis.

However, he then notes that Barack Obama has been lying -- or "miscaracterizing" -- McCain's and Obama's respective positions on regulating Fannie and Freddie for the past two weeks, and that it's time for McCain to set the record straight.

I throw out a follow up: Will he be as strong in the debate on this issue as you guys are being here?

The answer is a non-answer. He'll make his case to the American people, etc., and demand that Obama take a position on the issues, etc.

I have hopes.

posted by Ace at 02:42 PM

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