McCain capitalized on the "crusty demeanor" Gergen says he inherited, and repeatedly joked with the audience at his own expense.

"I didn't win 'Miss Congeniality' this year in the Senate," McCain said, explaining his lack of support among Republican groups.

Twice, when talking about pork-barrel spending and mistreatment of American Indians, McCain feigned horror at the idea of losing his temper, a joking reference to those reporters who have questioned his emotional stability.

Expressing optimism about his chances to win the New Hampshire primary--he said recent polls have actually put him ahead of Bush--McCain nevertheless acknowledged he was discouraged by Bush's ever-expanding campaign war chest.

"I remember the words of Chairman Mao: 'It's always darkest before it's totally black,'" he said.

Humor aside, McCain spent most of his time at the Forum explaining his stances on issues, particularly defense and foreign affairs. He promised to reform the U.S. military to make it viable in the "post-Cold War world."

He called for higher salaries for Americans enlisted in the armed forces. Twelve thousand of them, he said, are on food stamps. McCain also called for increased benefits for veterans.

He said he supports the "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gay soldiers but would be willing to review the policy from time to time.