This article quotes several sources that maintain that Ric Davis, McCain's campaign manager, was previously paid close to $2M by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to lobby on their behalf. While no action by McCain to aid the two organization is alleged, the sources claim that Davis was paid specifically because he was close to McCain at a time when the government tie to the two mortgage giants was under attack. Most sources are named but corroborating Republicans remain anonymous. This report is relevant only because of McCain's ongoing attempt to tie Obama to the two mortgage giants by claiming that he sought advice from a former Fannie May CEO.

This thorough investigative reporting by two NYTimes reporters ironically answers questions that McCain welcomed during a TV interview just the day before; it's very timely and definitely strikes while the iron is hot. It includes extensive sourcing using named sources; where anonymous sources were used, the reporters explain that these accounts were indeed confirmed by additional named and unnamed sources. The timeline of McCain campaign manager Davis's involvement with Homeownership Alliance -- and the amount of compensation he received these 5 years -- are clearly spelled out and sourced. The facts of the story are there, and it's a very focused piece. The reporters don't have to spell out the big picture, as it's still ... More »

NY Times reports on the amount of money that McCain's campaign manager Davis received from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - $2 Million over a 5 year time period to influence McCain to help derail legislation that would have increased federal regulation on the banking industry. Good journalism with credible sources and new information that had not been reported elsewhere. As the taxpayers are faced with bailing out the mess without any more regulation being imposed on the banking industry, it is important news to understand how much money the candidates and their staff are receiving from this industry.

Seems like good reporting to me. Presents a statement by McCain on the subject. Points out that the group has several worthy members and goals. And reinforces the already common knowledge that Davis worked as a lobbyist for years. He's one of many on the McCain campaign. I'm not even sure the dollar amount he received from them is notable. It seems somewhat paltry compared to some of his other clients. So I'm not quite sure why it's news, except for the obvious tie in to the housing market bust--which nobody is alleging Davis or McCain were responsible for. Contributory to maybe, with their emphasis on deregulation. But, again, that's fairly well-established fact already.

Two mill for Republican McCain's campaign manager to promote evasion of regulation of the FMs completely knocks the wind out of the desperate attacks on Obama alleging lobbyist influence. The story adds details that are not neatly integrated with the top story. Also, in taking note of the tenuaous Republican McCain ad against Obama and Raines, no note is made of its very strong racist tone as black Obama and black Raines are implied to be stealing the retirement funds of an older white lady. The tenuous insinuation of guilt by association is overshadowed by the nearly Klan-like racism of the McCain ad.

Great piece! John McCain's campaign manager, Rick Davis, was paid millions of dollars to help ensure the colossal mortage-banking financial catastrophe could come about. Many, many people were on the take, to set things up for one of the greatest financial debacles in the history of the Republic. McCain, of course, is up to his armpits in lobbyists and special interests who have subverted the interests of the nation in order to gain personal riches.

Seems that the voice of "We the People of the United States" is lost in the din of non-citizen, special interests. This article shows how - and how easily.

This article is a smear job, by an organization that is pulling out the stops to promote a candidate for the Presidency. Rick Davis did hold a role, which was to promote home ownership. At no time did Rick Davis lobby congress on behalf of Fannie/Freddie. The article does not ask Davis for comment. See "my research" for a rebuttal, which any fair journalist account would have given.

Ha ha, this is a great story and way overdue for the NYTimes to start printing the truth about pathetic McCain and the several hundred lobbyists running his campaign. I saw Davis on tv saying he didn't lobby for the two giants, and it cracked me up. These people are either really stupid or insane. McCain has flown around on planes owned by lobbyists for most of his career in the Senate. They own the poor old guy. If these lying thieves steal this election we can all try to bend over backwards and kiss our butts goodbye! Did y'all see the pathetic performances by Republicans Sunday? These people want us to trust them for another four years of Bush economics or is it egonomics? Never!!!!!!!!!

The people need to know what the politicians are up to. Then we can make an informed choice as to who to elect!