Reid cites Republican’s criticism of McCain

WASHINGTON -- Asked Tuesday whether Sen. John McCain of Arizona could win Nevada in November if he is the Republican presidential nominee, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid reached for his wallet -- literally.

Evidently prepared for the question, Reid pulled out a small piece of paper tucked among dollar bills.

"All I have to say is -- in answer -- I have it right here," Reid said.

Reading from the small sheet, the Senate Democratic leader then recited a quote from another Republican, Thad Cochran of Mississippi, which first appeared in the Boston Globe.

"The thought of (McCain) being president sends a cold chill down my spine, Senator Thad Cochran said last Friday. He's erratic. He's hotheaded. He loses his temper, and he worries me," Reid read.

Reid finished by saying flatly: "The Democratic nominee will carry Nevada."

Calls and e-mails to the McCain campaign were not returned.

Reid spokesman Jon Summers said Reid was carrying the Cochran quote in his wallet because "he was struck by the harsh words a fellow Republican had about Senator McCain."

Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, is not yet endorsing any presidential candidates because of his leadership position, according to Ensign spokesman Tory Mazzola.

"He will support the Republican nominee, and he believes the values of Nevadans are much closer to the GOP candidates," Mazzola said.

The last Democratic presidential nominee to win Nevada was Bill Clinton, who carried the state in 1992 and 1996.