The story of how Buse came to get involved is emblematic of the interconnections among Fannie, Freddie and the lawmakers whose support was critical for their business.

McCain campaign spokesman Brian Rogers said the hiring of Buse did not influence McCain. "I think the reality is that John McCain takes positions, you know, based on what he believes is in the public interest, period," Rogers said. "If these folks thought they were getting something out of John McCain . . . it's not based in fact."

I'm starting to wonder whether the depth of McCain's ties to lobbyists is all a bit of surprise to the man himself.  Perhaps he doesn't even realize that he is being manipulated by these folks.  Perhaps he thinks he can't be influenced this way.

Like some guy who only drinks Bud because its the best tasting beer, not realizing it tastes the same as all the others and that he has been totally influenced by the commercials he's been watching.

Wierd.