Pointing out disagreements with an opponent's stated policies and proposals is not "negative campainging."

Stating one's opinion that a one candidate is less qualified than another is a little closer to what might be deemed "negative," but is pretty nearly unavoidable when discussing a choice between two alternatives.

The abovementioned practices are quite clearly not in the same category as questioning the opponent's patriotism or status as a "real American," insinuating that he is in league with terrorists, and encouraging the kind of mob-mentality hysteria that prompts prople to call out for a lynching.

Yeah, sure, McCain, you say that they're "fringe people" and out of your control. But why is it that "fringe people" on the other end of the political spectrum ~ people you would be very quick to demonize as traitors and communists ~ are not making themselves heard at your opponent's rallies?

For that matter, why are they not in evidence at your public appearances, but only at events where Governor Palin is whipping up anger with her false accusations and inane generalizations?

It's because she is irresponsibly encouraging that kind of mindless and violent response, that's why.