Paris Hilton and Barack Obama? New McCain ad compares the two

Is Barack Obama akin to a hotel heiress known for Internet porn or a pop star caught up in allegations of drug abuse and mental instability?

John McCain is hoping voters will think so.

In a new 30-second TV ad released today, photos of the blond stars flash as the voice over says "celebrity" and then switches to images of Obama.

Paris Hilton - also known for the catchphrase 'That's hot' - and pop star Britney Spears only appear in the advertisement for about a second apiece.

The overall focus of the advertisement is to portray Obama as a celebrity of little substance.

"He's the biggest celebrity in the world," the voice over says in the beginning of the spot. "But, is he ready to lead?"

The ad also hits Obama for opposing the expansion of offshore drilling and wanting to raise some taxes.

Footage of Obama's speech last week in Berlin, which drew 200,000 chanting fans, serves as the ad's backdrop.

McCain campaign manager Rick Davis said the comparison of Hilton and Spears to Obama is to "demonstrate the focus of the Obama campaign has been as much to create that celebrity status" as discussing campaign issues.

The McCain campaign has chaffed under the star power of Obama's meteoric rise from Illinois state senator in 2004 to Democratic presidential candidate today.

The campaign also loudly complained about the attention Obama received internationally and in the media during his Middle East and European tours last week.

Davis was asked in a telephone news conference today why the campaign chose Hilton and Spears, who are often seen in a negative light, as opposed to more positive stars.

Davis called the comparison to Hilton and Spears "apples to apples."

The Obama campaign issued a response focusing on how Obama's policies will lower gas prices and provide tax cuts. The campaign hasn't yet addressed the celebrity theme or comparisons.