McCain vs The Freak Show

Money quote:

The television advertisement you are planning to air degrades our civics and distracts us from the very real differences we have with the Democrats. In the strongest terms, I implore you to not run this advertisement. ... There is no doubt that we will draw sharp contrasts with the Democrats on fundamental issues critical to the future course of our country. But we need not engage in political tactics that only seek to divide the American people.  Once again, it is imperative that you withdraw this offensive advertisement.

The local GOP will keep running it. If McCain wants to run a campaign that is not based on McCarthyism, racial fears, and polarized labeling, he probably shouldn't be trying to lead the current GOP. It's all they really care about.