What I'd do with the MSM press, and why they'd hate me

So McCain allowed himself to be forced to repudiate the anti-Catholic remarks of John Hagee, who had endorsed him. (This is McCain's usual way of "thanking" anyone who tries to help him, if that person is disliked by the MSM.)

About Hagee I have no opinion worth voicing in public. About Roman Catholicism I do, and often have, and will again in the future.

But this is really about neither.

Were I a Presidential candidate, I think I simply wouldn't allow myself to be manipulated into doing one thing or another about a Hagee. When the MSM asked their stupid "gotcha" questions, I'd just reject the questions and replace them with germane, relevant, worthwhile questions.

First, I'd say something like, "I'm not really running as theologian-in-chief."

Then when they'd pester me — as they surely would — I'd say

So what are you asking? Do I advocate jailing men who peacefully speak out against a religious viewpoint? I do not. Do I advocate jailing Roman Catholics who peacefully respond to their critics? I do not. Do I oppose extending full protection of Constitutional rights to either? I do not. Do I support the First Amendment? I do. Will I accept the votes of law-abiding, peaceful Americans who exercise their Constitutional rights in ways I do and do not approve? I will.

And I simply would not allow the MSM to control the conversation.

And the MSM would hate me.

But I'd be able to look in the mirror every morning and say, "Look! It's still me!"