2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

The Baltimore Sun Endorses John McCain For President

THE BALTIMORE SUN ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

"In the Republican primary, John McCain is our choice. The veteran Arizona senator whose political obituary had been all but written has risen like a phoenix to presumptive nominee status. He has stood his ground on tough issues ..." -- The Baltimore Sun

Excerpts From "Sun Endorsement: Betting On Change, Reform"

Editorial
The Baltimore Sun
February 10, 2008

... In the Republican primary, John McCain is our choice. The veteran Arizona senator whose political obituary had been all but written has risen like a phoenix to presumptive nominee status. He has stood his ground on tough issues such as immigration reform, campaign finance and torture, and we praised him for it. He is principled and has been willing to compromise. ...

Read The Baltimore Sun Editorial: "Sun Endorsement: Betting On Change, Reform"

The El Paso Times Endorses John McCain For President

THE EL PASO TIMES ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

"From pork-barreling to political posturing, from broken promises to the power of special interests, from taxing to spending, government needs fixing, and McCain seems to have the toughness and will to accomplish at least some of that. ... After his Super Tuesday victories, McCain is already the presumptive presidential nominee of the Republican Party. But Republicans should still vote for him in the primary in a show of solidarity that will help garner delegates and give him a smooth path into and through the GOP convention in September." -- The El Paso Times

Go With McCain: He Deserves GOP Nomination

Editorial
El Paso Times
February 10, 2008

John McCain is the El Paso Times' recommendation for those voting in the March 4 Republican Primary.

One thing that should appeal to El Pasoans -- and many others -- is that McCain is a veteran and former prisoner of war. He understands the problems of our military and our veterans, and he has promised to fight for them and not relegate them to the shadows. That's increasingly important as the war drags on and we create new legions of veterans, many of them wounded.

McCain also inherits the job of repairing a fragmented Republican Party that, frankly, has suffered from the Bush presidency. He also will have to prove to Americans that he can restore trust in a government that seems far from representing and working toward the interests of constituents. From pork-barreling to political posturing, from broken promises to the power of special interests, from taxing to spending, government needs fixing, and McCain seems to have the toughness and will to accomplish at least some of that.

McCain supports comprehensive immigration reform, and that doesn't always sit well with conservatives. But he's right about the need for such reform, and he recognizes the need for secure borders that addresses both immigration reform and the national security-related need for tighter northern and southern borders.

McCain also recognizes the tie between the government's greedy spending habits and increasing taxes, and promises to work to keep that spending in check while creating a fair taxing system.

After his Super Tuesday victories, McCain is already the presumptive presidential nominee of the Republican Party. But Republicans should still vote for him in the primary in a show of solidarity that will help garner delegates and give him a smooth path into and through the GOP convention in September.

Read The El Paso Times Editorial: "Go With McCain: He Deserves GOP Nomination"

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Endorses John McCain For President

PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

"At the very moment that a dangerously fractured Republican Party could have disintegrated Sen. McCain delivered a stunning speech to the annual gathering of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) ... McCain also offered an impressive tutorial on what the core of conservatism really is -- small government, fiscal discipline, low taxes, a strong defense and a judiciary that does not legislate from the bench. ... It was the speech of a hero leader at the exact moment when America is in dire need of heroes and leaders. And we wholeheartedly endorse John McCain for president." -- Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

John McCain For President: A Hero Leader

Editorial
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
February 10, 2008

You have to hand it to John McCain. He has an impeccable sense of timing.

At the very moment that a dangerously fractured Republican Party could have disintegrated -- Thursday, when Mitt Romney, the darling of the anti-McCain crowd exited the race -- Sen. McCain delivered a stunning speech to the annual gathering of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington.

Certainly, there was a measured sense of rebuke in the words of the Arizona senator who now has a virtual lock on the GOP presidential nomination. Fiercely independent, McCain made no apologies for positions he holds dear but may be at odds with the traditional conservative base.

But McCain also offered an impressive tutorial on what the core of conservatism really is -- small government, fiscal discipline, low taxes, a strong defense and a judiciary that does not legislate from the bench.

And in the starkest of terms, John McCain reminded those gathered at CPAC and those watching nationwide that the alternative -- freedom-stripping, purse-robbing and security-endangering Democrats -- is no alternative at all.

It was the speech of a hero leader at the exact moment when America is in dire need of heroes and leaders. And we wholeheartedly endorse John McCain for president.

Read Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Editorial: "John McCain For President: A Hero Leader"

The San Antonio Express-News Endorses John McCain For President

THE SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

"The Arizona senator's tendency to be a political maverick has earned him the mistrust of some party loyalists. ... On core conservative issues, however, there should be no doubts about McCain." -- The Express-News

"John McCain Is Right For GOP Nomination"

Editorial
Express-News
February 10, 2008

John McCain seems like an unlikely candidate, let alone undisputed front-runner, for the GOP nomination in 2008. Yet for Republicans, the choice should be clear. McCain is the best nominee to lead the Republican ticket in November.

The Arizona senator's tendency to be a political maverick has earned him the mistrust of some party loyalists. The campaign finance reform measure that bears his name and his advocacy for comprehensive immigration reform and climate stewardship are considered to be examples of his past apostasy by some opponents.

In a general election, these may actually be attractive points for independent voters.

On core conservative issues, however, there should be no doubts about McCain. And since his own brush with scandal shortly after arriving in Congress in the 1980s, he has been an outspoken advocate for accountability and ethics.

McCain's strong opposition to profligate spending and wasteful earmarks also has been unpopular on Capitol Hill -- another example of his maverick spirit. But the Republican Party and the nation would be better off if his counsel had been followed.

National security issues have in large measure defined the McCain campaign. And it's on this point, more than any other, that he separates himself from his principal challenger.

Military service is not a prerequisite for entering the White House. But McCain brings a vast amount of personal and political experience that makes him uniquely qualified to address the nation's foreign policy challenges.

A year ago, he staked out an unpopular position on Iraq, judging that a precipitous American withdrawal would make matters worse while a new commander with a new strategy and additional resources could improve the security situation.

It's safe to say that if his judgment were wrong and the surge failed to demonstrate unmistakable results, McCain would not be in the running today. His judgment was correct. And he would bring a similar judgment of policy to the broad range of issues the United States confronts in the foreign policy arena.

Other candidates have held more appeal to elements of the Republican Party's conservative base. And McCain, like all candidates, has his weaknesses, not least his susceptibility to rage.

This year, however, the old warrior and occasional non-conformist is the best person to lead his party.

Read The Express-News Editorial: "John McCain Is Right For GOP Nomination"

The Cleveland Plain Dealer Endorses John McCain For President

THE CLEVELAND PLAIN DEALER ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

"The likelihood of a McCain nomination ought to please Republicans of every stripe. Even before the winnowing of the GOP field began, McCain stood out as the party's most impressive presidential material and its most electable candidate." -- The Plain Dealer

Excerpts From "McCain Is A Plain-Spoken Pragmatist Who Can Build A Coalition"

Editorial
The Plain Dealer
February 10, 2008

The Republican Party has been running presidential candidates since 1856. In all that time, it has never elected one who failed to carry Ohio. Even today, the party's strategists cannot construct a realistic blueprint for winning 270 electoral votes without picking up 20 here.

Because neither the Democrats nor the Republicans enjoy majority status, independents decide elections in Ohio. That means you don't win here by driving people out of your party's tent. You win by inviting them in. ...

The likelihood of a McCain nomination ought to please Republicans of every stripe. Even before the winnowing of the GOP field began, McCain stood out as the party's most impressive presidential material and its most electable candidate.

Americans of any party or ideology cannot help but admire McCain's service to this country, including 5½ years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. The scars he carries give him extra credence when he talks about the uses and limits of military power and about America's role in the world. A president may have to make split-second decisions on matters of national security; McCain has shown steel under the greatest pressures imaginable.

Then, too, there is his admirable willingness to work with allies wherever he finds them - even among Democrats in the Senate. This infuriates some conservatives, but McCain's ability to form coalitions would serve him and the country well as president. Ronald Reagan, whom GOP contenders feel duty-bound to salute at every turn, was a master of cobbling together unlikely majorities and of accepting half a loaf if that's all he had the votes to win. McCain embodies the blend of principle and pragmatism that made Reagan so effective.

Make no mistake. McCain has a very conservative voting record. He's a maverick, not a moderate, no matter what Tom DeLay, Rush Limbaugh and Ann Coulter might say. But in an era of carefully programmed politicians, McCain also is a throwback. He says what he thinks. He gets mad in public. He refuses to toe the party line - even his own party's.

That kind of Republican wins in Ohio. By voting for John McCain on March 4, Republicans here can steer their party away from those who have a death wish and focus it instead on the serious business of holding the White House in November.

Read The Full Plain Dealer Editorial: "McCain Is A Plain-Spoken Pragmatist Who Can Build A Coalition"

Former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore Endorses John McCain

FORMER VIRGINIA GOVERNOR JIM GILMORE ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that former Virginia Governor, Jim Gilmore, has endorsed John McCain for president.

"There is one issue that is more pressing than all others -- winning the war against radical Islamic extremism," said Governor Gilmore. "And there is one man who is best prepared to step-in and serve as commander in chief from day one John McCain. I have known John McCain for years. He is a proven conservative leader with a track record of cutting taxes, eliminating wasteful government spending, upholding our traditional values, and promoting a strong national defense. I urge my fellow Virginians to join me in voting for and supporting John McCain this Tuesday."

John McCain thanked Governor Gilmore, saying, "Jim is a great example of what it means to be a public servant. He has devoted his life to the people of Virginia and our country. I sincerely appreciate his support, and I look forward to his counsel and guidance as we work towards victory."

Jim Gilmore served the Commonwealth of Virginia and the United States of America as a member of Army counter-intelligence; Virginia Attorney General; and as the 68th Governor of Virginia. A graduate of the University of Virginia and the University of Virginia School of Law, Jim Gilmore is a former chairman of the Republican National Committee. At the request of the U.S. government, Jim Gilmore served as the Chairman of the Advisory Panel on Homeland Security and the Terrorist Threat. Additionally, Mr. Gilmore served as Governor during the tragic 9/11 attacks on the Pentagon.

He was born in the historic fan district of Richmond in 1949. While studying at UVa, Jim Gilmore joined College Republicans, and was elected a statewide officer, and met his wife Roxane. He and Roxane are the proud parents of two sons.

Virginia Newspapers Endorse John McCain For President

VIRGINIA NEWSPAPERS ENDORSE JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT
The Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star, Danville Register & Bee And 19 Times Community Newspapers Endorse John McCain

"[C]onservatives can be perfectly sure that in ways basic to the definition of conservatism -- involving judicial nominees, the proper role of government, taxes, and national defense -- a McCain presidency would look strikingly different from one ordered by either Mrs. Clinton or Mr. Obama." -- The Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star

"McCain is a war hero, a distinguished conservative senator and a loyal Republican who stood by President Bush on the Iraq War. A year ago, McCain's support for the war was supposed to kill his candidacy. Today, it has underscored his loyalty -- and his military background." -- Danville Register & Bee

"Among the candidates of both parties, only Republican Sen. John McCain has demonstrated leadership qualities and a broad understanding of the issues. He has shown the vision to meet future challenges. McCain boasts a rare blend of courage and national experience, boldly fighting for more than two decades for needed change in the U.S. Senate." -- 19 Times Community Newspapers: Annandale Times, Burke Times, Centreville Times, Chantilly Times, Clarke Times-Courier, Culpeper Times, Fairfax Times, Fairfax Station Times, Fauquier Times-Democrat, Fauquier Weekend, Gainesville Times, Great Falls Times, Herndon Times, Loudoun Times-Mirror, McLean Times, Rappahannock News, Reston Times, Springfield Times, Vienna Times

Former RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman Endorses John McCain For President

FORMER RNC CHAIRMAN KEN MEHLMAN ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that former Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman has endorsed John McCain for president. Mr. Mehlman issued the following statement on his endorsement:
"From going door to door for President Reagan at age 13, to working for the first Republican majority in 40 years, to serving in President George W. Bush's White House and as RNC Chairman, I have had many opportunities on behalf of the GOP. Today I am pleased to continue in that tradition and endorse Senator John McCain for President.

"Sen. McCain has shown extraordinary character and perseverance throughout this race, and earned this nomination through his unwavering commitment to defend America abroad, limit government at home, and confront head on the major challenges facing our country. He has been a tireless advocate and courageous leader standing up for lower taxes, stronger national defense and constitutionalist judges on the federal bench.

"Our party has had many outstanding candidates this year, but it is now time for Republicans across the country to unite. Together, led by Sen. McCain, we will work for a better, safer, stronger America."

John McCain thanked Mr. Mehlman for his support, stating, "Ken is one of the most dedicated, effective and visionary leaders in the Republican Party today. I admire his hard work to build the GOP in recent years, including his leadership of President Bush's 2004 re-election campaign. I look forward to working with Ken as we unite our Party for victory in November, and I appreciate his support."

Ken Mehlman served as chairman of the Republican National Committee from 2005-2006. Previously, he was campaign manager for President Bush's 2004 re-election campaign. Mr. Mehlman also served in high level positions in Congress and the White House, including as White House political director during President George W. Bush's first term.

Senator John Cornyn Endorses John McCain For President

SENATOR JOHN CORNYN ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has endorsed John McCain for president. Senator Cornyn issued the following statement on his endorsement:

"In this time of war and economic uncertainty, America must have strong, principled leadership. National security is the first and most important priority of the federal government. We must have a President who will be a leader in the war on terrorism, who will do what is needed to protect our country and its people, and who will not buckle when the political waters become rough. In the Senate Armed Services Committee, and on the Senate floor, I have seen firsthand that John McCain has been right on critical national security issues. He is clearly the man for the job.

"Sen. McCain has also been a real leader on another issue that we have neglected far too long -- wasteful and excessive Washington spending. I have watched John McCain take on the special interests and fight the tough battles on behalf of American taxpayers. While we have had principled disagreements on some issues, including some aspects of immigration reform, I am convinced that John McCain shares my conviction that we must secure our borders and restore respect for the integrity of our immigration laws. I will look forward to continuing to pursue these goals with him when he is President.

"With many of my colleagues, I have been determined to stay out of the primary contests and allow the members of our party to work their will. I now believe, with a number of the other candidates deciding to step aside, that it is time for the Republican Party to come together and stand behind Senator McCain. I am honored to endorse him for President of the United States today and will do whatever I can to support his candidacy."

John McCain thanked Senator Cornyn for his support, stating, "John Cornyn is a fellow conservative with a distinguished record of service to Texas and to our nation. I truly appreciate his support, and I am honored that he is on our team."

Governor George Allen Endorses John McCain

GOVERNOR GEORGE ALLEN ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that George Allen, former Governor of Virginia, U.S. Senator, and U.S. Representative, has endorsed John McCain for president.

"John McCain has led a life of heroic service to our country," said Governor Allen. "His experience coupled with his strong belief in core conservative principles makes him uniquely prepared to serve as our next commander in chief. I am confident that he is the only candidate who can combat the threat of radical Islamic extremism, ensure our country's economic prosperity, stop wasteful Washington spending, and uphold our traditional values. Today, I urge all fellow Virginians and Americans to join me in supporting John McCain for president."

John McCain thanked Governor Allen for his support, saying, "I am honored and humbled to have the support of my friend George Allen. George has devoted his life to serving the Commonwealth of Virginia and the people of the United States. I am very pleased that he has joined our team, and I look forward to working with him."

George F. Allen served the Commonwealth of Virginia for over twenty years, as Governor, in both bodies of the United States Congress, and as a delegate holding Thomas Jefferson's seat in the Virginia General Assembly. Currently, Allen serves as the Reagan Ranch Presidential Scholar for the Young America's Foundation. George Allen holds a B.A. in History with distinction, as well as a law degree from the University of Virginia. He and his wife, Susan, reside near Mt. Vernon in Fairfax County with their three children: Tyler, Forrest, and Brooke.