Black Box Report

This is satire:

McCain Late To Debate Due To Greyhound Delays

DES MOINES, IA—Citing a series of unanticipated disruptions to the Greyhound bus service, a red-faced and breathless Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) arrived 50 minutes after the start of the Republican presidential debates Sunday.

According to the beleaguered candidate, a series of departure delays, missed transfers, and a flat tire outside Oxford, OH forced him to arrive at the outskirts of Iowa's capital five minutes before the debate was about to begin.

"To the esteemed people of Des Moines, the ABC viewers at home, and moderator George Stephanopoulos, I'm sorry I'm late," McCain said as he assumed his position behind his assigned podium and fastened his lavalier microphone to his lapel. "I would've called, but I was out of minutes on my prepaid cell phone."

As the broadcast ended, McCain sprinted backstage to relieve himself and fill his suit pockets with complimentary bottled water and the contents of a cheese platter.

This is not:

McCain takes once high-flying bid to S.Carolina

COLUMBIA, South Carolina (Reuters) - US Airways Flight 3027 from Washington to South Carolina was cramped on Monday, carrying a full load of passengers that included summer travelers and Republican presidential candidate John McCain.

This is what McCain's legendary "Straight Talk Express" has become -- no huge bus and accompanying entourage -- just simply the Arizona senator, an aide carrying a briefcase, on a crowded commercial flight and a fairly anonymous arrival at Columbia's airport for two days of campaigning for the Republican presidential nomination.

At Washington's National Airport, McCain watched the electronic flight schedule warily, knowing he'd make his engagements "if the plane is on time," he said gamely. His flight was a half hour late in taking off and there were no first class seats.

If there's a difference, I can't spot it.