Oh, I think he’d find a couple of Democrats–like maybe the next President of the US, or maybe someone in his cabinet, small stuff like that–who might forgive Dave for any damage he does to McCain. Just my guess.
Letterman is a TV act in a competitive field.
Merely announcing that McCain is due to appear on his show has produced loads of publicity - so it’s a win whatever he does.
Given that Letterman continually needs famous guests, I think he’ll make some fun of McCain, but try not to go too far.
I really have to disagree with this, as it hinges on politicians as a group showing solidarity with one another by refusing publicity. It might work for a week or two, but as soon as they start thinking about the next election, they’d break ranks before you could say “prisoners’ dilemma”.
It’s a fun fantasy to imagine Letterman locking McCain out and watching him cry for his mama. But you and I both know that’s not going to happen.
Let’s look at the Daily Show. Day in and day out they make fun of the very people clamoring to be guests on the show. Except for Bush, every single politician would give their right kidney to reach the audience The Daily Show provides and make a good impression on it. And Stewart does his part by bending over backwards about 540 degrees to ensure they’re treated fairly and respectfully while on his show. The only time he’ll really take the gloves off is when the guest says something profoundly stupid while on the show itself.
It’s show business. Both sides here know how the game’s played. Both sides can be really really pissed at each other and still smile through gritted teeth and drink gin out of their coffee mugs. Everyone will play nice and the show will go on for Letterman and McCain.
Letterman, via video, standing at an ATM: “I’m glad you could make it, but I’m afraid I have to suspend my hosting to attend to a financial crisis.”
McCain: <flinches>
Letterman: “Don’t worry, though, I arranged for someone to handle the interview in my absence.”
Obama: <Walks in, takes Letterman’s seat.>
Hijinks ensue.
