McCain Hitches Hopes to Petraeus' Star

John McCain’s presidential prospects may rest on his criticism of the Bush administration and his support for David Petraeus, and if the situation allows, the Arizona senator will be rewarded for his support of an unpopular war, the Politico's Roger Simon contends. McCain bemoans the “many mistakes” made in Iraq but applauds the general’s work.

Petraeus, who holds a Princeton PhD, is the “most impressive guy I’ve met, seen in action, in a long time,” McCain gushes. If he is right, McCain once again could become the presidential campaign maverick who says whatever he wants, especially since he’s lost frontrunner status. An ex-aide says, “He is becoming more of an outsider again.” (More John McCain stories.)