McCain Gets a Google

John McCain does not have a great track record with questions about the internet, but that is changing search by search.

But first, the compu-gaffes:

In one interview, McCain was asked if he used a PC or a Mac (AAPL). His response: "I am an illiterate that has to rely on my wife for all of the assistance I can get."

At a recent private luncheon, a McCain supporter asked the Republican hopeful how he would research his pick for a running mate. McCain’s response: “You know basically, it’s a Google…What you can find out on the Internet-- is remarkable.”

Though such statements may not inspire confidence in McCain ability to connect with youth and online culture (or even Google [GOOG]), someone in McCain’s camp knows the significance of a robust online presence. How do we know?

In a clever strategic move, the McCain campaign pulled a minor coup over Obama’s almost invincible online presence. McCain strategists have purchased keywords from Google including Joe Biden, Housing Crisis and U.S. Economy.

(The reported estimated cost for search terms varies, for example "Barak Obama" could cost around $240, per search per day, to advertise against; while a "John McCain" term could cost up to $470 per day.)

That means certain searches will take you to McCain's campaign sites. For example, according to a recent Wall Street Journal (NWS) article: A Google search for "Joe Biden" or even just "Biden" resulted in a prominently displayed ad labeled "Joe Biden on Obama" that links to Sen. McCain's site. There, a video begins playing that shows Sen. Biden criticizing Sen. Obama during the Democratic primaries.