McCain's Temper Sells Books?

John McCain just wrapped up his "biography" tour. Now the unofficial biographies are coming out as well. The media reports McCain's schoolboy nicknames were "Punk" and "McNasty."A new book, The Real McCain, illustrates more of the McCain temper in action. It is being quoted in pre-release snippets. Whether there is more there there, or if these are the only juicy anecdotes, released to hype the book–who knows?

In 2006, the Arizona Republican congressional delegation had a strategy meeting. McCain repeatedly addressed two new members, congressmen Trent Franks and Rick Renzi, as 'boy.' Finally, Renzi, a former college linebacker, rose from his chair and said to McCain, "You call me that one more time and I'll kick your old ass." McCain lunged at Renzi, punches were thrown, and the two had to be physically separated. After they went to their separate offices, McCain called Renzi and demanded an apology. Renzi refused. Apparently this posture made McCain admire him, as they became fast friends.

Three reporters from Arizona, on the condition of anonymity, also let me in on another incident involving McCain's intemperateness. In his 1992 Senate bid, McCain was joined on the campaign trail by his wife, Cindy, as well as campaign aide Doug Cole and consultant Wes Gullett. At one point, Cindy playfully twirled McCain's hair and said, "You're getting a little thin up there." McCain's face reddened, and he responded, "At least I don't plaster on the makeup like a trollop, you c-nt." McCain's excuse was that it had been a long day.

The Real McCain, by Cliff Schecter.