Can someone explain their horror regarding the AP 'McCain Veep' article? [View All]

http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/06/11/kerry.mccain.ap/index.html

'Kerry has asked McCain as recently as late last month to consider becoming his running mate, but the Arizona senator said he's not interested, said a Democratic official who spoke on condition of anonymity because Kerry has insisted that his deliberations be kept private.

A second official familiar with the conversations confirmed the account, and said the Arizona senator made it clear he won't change his mind.

Both officials said Kerry stopped short of offering McCain the job, sparing himself an outright rejection that would make his eventual running mate look like a second choice.

"Senator McCain categorically states that he has not been offered the vice presidency by any one," said McCain's chief of staff, Mark Salter, who would not confirm the officials' account.'

**He didn't offer McCain the spot--he only asked him if he was willing to be considered, as Edwards is being considered, as Clark is being considered, as many others are being considered. McCain refuses to be considered. What is the problem? This is the same 'look--I'm bipartisan' game Kerry has been trying to play for months--how does this article change things?

edit: Those of you who saw Jennings on ABC--did he categorically state that Kerry asked McCain TO BE VP rather than just be under consideration? How did he put it and what was his source? Thanks.