Meh, the whole lack of experience thing is something McCain has been harping on and I don't think it's as big a deal as people make it out to be. Clinton said himself when he was campaigning (the first time) that experience wasn't everything and he was probably one of our best presidents. Also, the experience thing is where Biden comes in. He's got the foreign relation knowledge and can help Obama in that respect. In fact, that's probably why Obama picked Biden.

When it comes to past associates, McCain hasn't always associated with wonderful people either. Unless those associates are going to try influencing the president, and the president lets them (kind of like Cheney with the oil companies), then I don't see how those relationships will affect anything important. Those are just my thoughts. I can see why those issues can make people nervous, though. I guess when it comes to voting, ask yourself, despite those misgivings, do you believe that candidate will make good, educated decisions with which you would agree.