America online ... bloggers' views

American bloggers offered an instant reaction to the appearance of Bridget McCain in public for the first time.

On ABCNews.com, senior correspondent Jake Tapper wrote: "There's a lot of really nasty stuff out there about both the Obamas and the McCains. The good stuff is rarely discussed."

But internet users were less fair. "I'm no McCain fan, but it's a lovely story and Cindy deserves credit for what she did. Too bad that will probably be the only part of this entire convention that I can watch without muting," wrote Ryan C.

One blogger wrote: "Funny how they were too embarrassed to put the 'DARK' child in the photo... hypocrites" - a reference to a group shot of the McCains' adult children, which did not include Bridget.

"Amy" attacked Mrs McCain, the candidate's second husband, more directly. "I'd be more impressed if her relationship with McCain hadn't started with a 9-month affair while he was married with three kids. She's like Monica Lewinsky, only she managed to steal the guy (Cindy was 25, McCain 42). Hardly an impressive first lady material."

And "Julie" wrote: "I applaud anyone that adopts an orphan; however, in the recent past McCain has enhanced the story to include Mother Teresa being there when Cindy made the determination to adopt."

"Peach" wrote: "I've seen this adopted child many times on the campaign trail with her parents until about 2-3 weeks ago. She is a little chubby and having some growing pains."

On another blog, Shai wrote: "I believe that Bridget McCain just wants to be a 17-yr-old girl and be left out of this. So many people are saying so many nasty things and they should be ashamed for those things their saying, especially about a child. SHAME on you!"