It's Only Money.

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Author: Goodin, Emily

Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California brought in Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., to campaign with him on initiatives the governor wants to get passed in this November's special election. The joint appearance was not without irony: Schwarzenegger has collected $76 million in contributions since his election two years ago, and McCain once called former Democratic Gov. Gray Davis's push to raise $26 million "disgraceful." Watchdog groups said that McCain's appearance was a reminder of Schwarzenegger's campaign promise to reform the Sacramento political culture, in which "money goes in" and "favors go out."

When reminded of his 2001 comments and asked why he had been "silent" about the Republican governor, McCain shot back, "I haven't been silent." He said Schwarzenegger must raise his own money to fight unions that can spend millions of dollars.

"I think the governor has played by the rules of the game," McCain said. "Do I like the game? No. But to tie one hand behind his back would not be appropriate." (Los Angeles Times, 10/11)

PHOTO (BLACK & WHITE): JOHN MCCAIN

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By Emily Goodin

Emily Goodin is TV editor of The Hotline, National Journal Group's daily briefing on politics.