McCain has kind words in spite of 'whiners' remark

(NEW YORK) In exile from the McCain campaign since calling the U.S. "a nation of whiners," former Sen. Phil Gramm appears to be back in John McCain's good graces.

McCain singled out Gramm, among others, at a dinner Thursday night honoring more than 200 people who have raised at least $100,000 for his campaign.

"Thank you, Phil, for all your friendship and support," McCain said.

Interviewed before McCain addressed about 800 people during a forum at the Aspen Institute earlier in the day, Gramm said he had not spoken lately with the Republican presidential candidate.

"I'm just a grass-roots supporter," Gramm said, "a private in the army."

During the forum, Gramm sat directly in front of McCain.