May 23, 2008

Are candidates’ spouses fair game?

Obama says ‘lay off my wife, can’t chivalry exist in a campaign?'

Obama's comments about his wife come after Tennessee Republicans called into question some remarks Michelle Obama made on the campaign trail earlier this year.

In February, referring to the sense of excitement among Democrats over her husband's candidacy, Michelle Obama said, "For the first time in my adult life, I am proud of my country."



Said the state GOP: "The Tennessee Republican Party has always been proud of America."

Obama's warning to his wife's critics drew a harsh response from the McCain campaign, with aides pointing out that the DNC has repeatedly blasted Cindy McCain for not releasing her tax returns.

"I think Obama should get his party under control before he starts issuing edicts," said Jill Hazelbaker, a McCain spokeswoman.

"Instead of attacking John McCain today, maybe Obama ought to spend the day talking to Howard Dean about what is appropriate in this campaign."

If the spouse of a candidate speaks out, thereby taking an active roll in the campaign, they should definitely be ‘fair game.’

If Obama wants to insist on ‘laying off’ his wife, he should insist she stay out of the campaign.

Link