Who does McCain think he’s kidding? Stick a fork into his campaign… it’s done!

McCain Campaign Suffers Key Shake-Ups

(LIZ SIDOTI, Associated Press Writer)

Republican Presidential hopeful, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., meets with reporters on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, July 10, 2007, to discuss changes to his presidential campaign staff.

WASHINGTON (AP) – John McCain’s campaign manager, chief strategist and other senior aides quit Tuesday, the second major staff shake-up in a week for the Republican presidential candidate who trails his rivals in money and polls.

In a statement, the Arizona senator said Terry Nelson and John Weaver offered their resignations, “which I accepted with regret and deep gratitude for their dedication, hard work and friendship.”

Nelson, a veteran of President Bush’s successful 2004 re-election effort, said he stepped down as campaign manager and Weaver, a longtime aide who was a key player McCain’s failed 2000 presidential bid, said he left his post of chief strategist. Both resignations were effective immediately.

Following the two out the door were political director Rob Jesmer and deputy campaign manager Reed Galen, officials said.

At the Capitol, McCain said he would “of course” remain in the presidential race, and disputed the idea that the staff changes marked a major shake-up that reflects his campaign’s recent troubles.

“People are free to make their own assessments. I think we’re doing fine,” McCain said. “I’m very happy with the campaign the way it is.”

The Buffalo News