The Politico reports: As Clock Ticks, Hopes Dim for McCain Savior. The story says the reason 527s did not emerge on the McCain side is: “largely to lack of passion for McCain within the conservative base, diminished hopes that he can win and a sharp decline in the stock market that has badly pinched donors’ pockets.” I’ll have to think through if that’s what’s really going on. I’m thinking much of this had to do with the uncertain legal terrain surrounding 527 activity.