• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, June 5, 2008

Hillary Clinton may not have exited the race for the White House yet--but Lifetime may be giving that impression over the next few days. The network persuaded Democrat Barack Obama and Republican opponent John McCain to tape promotions for the second-season debut of drama "Army Wives."

(Lifetime said Clinton was invited to participate but could not, due to scheduling issues.)

The 30-second spots from the two senators will air through Sunday's debut. Both take the opportunity to salute the troops serving abroad. After joking that his wife is a fan of the show and makes him watch, McCain says: "We should ... honor those who are currently in harm's way, defending our freedom, and the brave families that await their safe return."

Obama says he is eager to find out what happens on the series' second season, and mentions that the show paints a picture of what life is like for spouses of those on active duty. He adds: "Our entire nation owes our troops and those who love them our abiding gratitude--for their service, their courage, and for the sacrifice they make each day on our behalf."

The senators direct viewers to Lifetime's Web site for information about ways to support military families.

The series is about spouses, including one man, living on an Army post.