I did a little googling, and found some confirmation. 90% approval rating from the John Birch Society? Yikes! His votes have been anti-choice (though I'm not one to consider abortion the sole litmus test). Environmental votes are all over the map. Very strong on governmental reform issues (uh yeah, e.g. McCain-Feingold). Low marks from labor. Very high marks for military and national security issues. High marks on science and technology. the Cato Institute likes him 100%, which gives him some Libertarian chops.
An interesting thing I found was that when McCain is rated by Liberal organizations, he doesn't zero out. I take that as a sign of moderation. In a secion on welfare and poverty, interestingly enough, he got several 100% ratings.
But you know, Bowser, at the end of the day I'll decide based on this:
Some ethical stands, which are so unusual among Republicans it makes him look like a maverick.
I trust my instincts. The first time I saw Dubya speaking as a candidate, the hair on the back of my neck rose up and the alarm bells went off. I know a snake when I see one.
I don't have that reaction to McCain. I sense that he has genuine character, and I'm inclined to trust that his principles will mitigate his ideology. I expect him to put America ahead of partisan politics. I think we could deal with McCain, and that's healthy for America.
Funny how I'm focusing so much on McCain even though I'm undecided in the Hillary versus McCain matchup. I probably lean a little toward him at this point, though a lot could change over the next couple of years. Both their records will be put under the microscope, and I'll be in a better position to judge toward the end of 2008. For now I'm keeping an open mind--and thoroughly enjoying the novelty of being able to do so!
Wow, what a concept: Presidential candidates who don't suck!
Reference: Project VoteSmart