2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Statement By Senator John McCain

STATEMENT BY SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain issued the following statement today:

"Today, John Weaver and Terry Nelson offered their resignations from my presidential campaign, which I accepted with regret and deep gratitude for their dedication, hard work and friendship. Terry is a consummate professional, who has ably lead this campaign through a challenging political environment. John Weaver has been my friend and trusted counselor for many years and to whom I am greatly indebted. In the days and weeks ahead this campaign will move forward, and I will continue to address the issues of greatest concern to the American people, laying out my vision for a secure and prosperous America."

Statements By Terry Nelson And John Weaver

STATEMENTS BY TERRY NELSON AND JOHN WEAVER

ARLINGTON, VA - Terry Nelson, Campaign Manager and John Weaver, Chief Strategist for John McCain 2008 issued the following statements:

"This morning I informed Senator McCain that I would be resigning from his presidential campaign, effective immediately. It has been a tremendous honor to serve Senator McCain and work on his campaign. I believe John McCain is the most experienced and prepared candidate to represent the Republican Party and defeat the Democratic nominee next year." - Terry Nelson, Campaign Manager

"As of today, I have resigned my position as chief strategist to John McCain's presidential campaign. It has been my honor and a distinct privilege to serve someone who has always put our country first. I believe that most Americans will come to the conclusion that I have long known there is only one person equipped to serve as our nation's chief executive and deal with the challenges we face, and that person is John McCain." - John Weaver, Chief Strategist

Plymouth County Leaders Join Team McCain

PLYMOUTH COUNTY LEADERS JOIN TEAM MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced its volunteer, grassroots leadership organization in Plymouth County, Iowa. The leadership team includes former elected officials, longtime Republican Party activists, veterans, and other Iowans for whom Senator McCain's common sense conservative message has resonated.

"Honor, integrity and courage are the qualities most needed in a president. That's why Iowans are supporting John McCain, a true leader who takes on tough challenges and doesn't back down in the face of political pressure," said Plymouth County Chair Jim Truemper. "I am excited to work with my fellow grassroots supporters to spread Senator McCain's common sense conservative message to voters in Plymouth County and throughout Iowa."

The leadership team is actively building Senator McCain's northwest Iowa grassroots organization in preparation for the Iowa Caucuses.

Senator John McCain expressed his gratitude for the group's support. "I'm proud to have this group of committed conservatives volunteering their time on my behalf," said Senator McCain. "These grassroots activists will be an enormous asset as we continue to grow our Iowa team."

Plymouth County Leadership Team
Ralph Klemme, Le Mars Honorary County Chair
Jim Truemper, Merrill County Chair
Earl Draayer, Le Mars County Co-Chair
Carrie Aduddell, Le Mars
Patrice Bottjen, Le Mars
Lisa Meister-Erickson, Le Mars
Monte Erickson, Le Mars
Karen Klemme, Le Mars
Monica McGhee, Le Mars
Sam Philips, Akron
Nadine Philips, Akron
Kathy Wagner, Le Mars
Emil Willer, Akron

McCain Campaign Names Nancy Merrill As State Co-Chair

MCCAIN CAMPAIGN NAMES NANCY MERRILL AS STATE CO-CHAIR

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Nancy Merrill will join the Arizona Senator's leadership team in New Hampshire as a state co-chair.

Merrill currently serves as National Committeewoman for the New Hampshire Republican State Committee. Elected to that post in July 2000, Merrill will offer her resignation to work with the campaign and maintain the impartiality of the Republican National Committee (RNC) position.

"I firmly believe that New Hampshire must help move John McCain to the next level in the nomination process, which is why I am stepping down from the national committee to work on John's behalf," said Merrill. "Our state primary is a major influence on the rest of the nation. We must show the states that follow us that John McCain is the only candidate who possesses the experience, courage, and candor we need in the leader of our country."

Senator John McCain thanked Nancy for her support. "Nancy was a critical part of my success in 2000," stated Senator McCain. "She has a long record of public service to the people of New Hampshire and our party. I am honored to have her support and look forward to her counsel as we continue to build our grassroots organization in the state."

Merrill was a state vice chair for Senator McCain's 2000 bid for the Republican nomination.

McCain Campaign Names New Hampshire Legislative Caucus

MCCAIN CAMPAIGN NAMES NEW HAMPSHIRE LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the New Hampshire Legislative Caucus for McCain - the only legislative caucus for a presidential candidate in the state.

"As lawmakers we understand the challenges involved in finding solutions to tough policy issues," said Rep. Maureen Mooney. "I have a deep respect for Senator McCain's leadership and courage when it comes to getting things done on the critical issues that face our nation."

Rep. Gene Chandler added, "While all too many politicians are comfortable merely criticizing controversial legislation, John McCain gets things done. His ability to reach across the aisle, and willingness to spend political capital when push comes to shove, is unmatched in Washington. This is the brand of leadership we need in the White House."

Senator John McCain was very pleased with the support of New Hampshire legislators at today's press conference. "I am grateful for the support of the many thoughtful and dedicated state leaders who have stood on my behalf today," said Senator McCain. "Each member of the caucus has a celebrated record of service to the people of New Hampshire and I am proud to have them working with me as I campaign in the state."

New Hampshire Legislative Caucus for McCain
Rep. Sharon Carson (R-Londonderry)
Rep. Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett)
Rep. Karen Hutchinson (R-Londonderry)
Rep. Rip Holden (R-Goffstown)
Rep. Maureen Mooney (R-Merrimack)
Rep. Andy Peterson (R-Peterborough)

Iowa Generals Join Team McCain

IOWA GENERALS JOIN TEAM MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's campaign today announced that ten Iowa general officers are supporting the Arizona Senator's campaign. These ten decorated veterans will serve in a leadership capacity in Senator McCain's organization in Iowa.

"Throughout his life John McCain has demonstrated that he is a true American patriot, committed to serving his country," said Major General Gary Wattnem. "America deserves a president like John McCain who will always put the nation's interests ahead of his own."

Having the endorsement of ten former generals in Iowa is unprecedented in a primary election campaign. The generals hail from all corners of the Hawkeye State and served in World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War.

Senator John McCain expressed his appreciation for the support of his fellow veterans. "I am honored to be joined in this campaign by these distinguished servicemen," said Senator McCain. "These generals embody the sacrifice necessary in committing to a cause greater than oneself. I look forward to their counsel and assistance as we continue to build our strong Iowa grassroots organization."

IOWA Veterans advisory committee
Brigadier General Tom Bruner, Crescent
Brigadier General Russ Eggers, Des Moines
Major General Merrill Evans, Waukee
Major General Evan "Curly" Hultman, Waterloo
Brigadier General Warren "Bud" Nelson, Sioux City
Brigadier General Eddie Newman, Eldridge
Major General John Peppers, Exira
Brigadier General Maurice Phillips, Newton
Brigadier General W.L. "Bill" Wallace, Ankeny
Major General Gary Wattnem, Mason City

Greenville Mayor Stands With John McCain

GREENVILLE MAYOR STANDS WITH JOHN MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Greenville Mayor Knox White will support the Arizona Senator's presidential candidacy.

Earlier this month, Greenville residents overwhelmingly re-elected White to what will be his fourth term as mayor. White is largely credited with the successful revitalization of downtown Greenville, forwarding innovative neighborhood redevelopment policies, and creating a pro-business environment that encourages economic growth.

"Our nation's next president must be a common sense conservative leader who has the courage and character to offer up the tough solutions, even when they may not be politically expedient," said White. "John McCain's service, experience, and commitment to our conservative cause make him the best qualified to lead our nation as we face the challenges of tomorrow."

Senator John McCain said he welcomed the support from White. "Knox is widely recognized across the nation for his vibrant leadership as mayor of Greenville and the city's downtown revitalization is a wonderful success story," said Senator McCain. "I am truly honored that to have his support and I look forward to working with him."

New Hampshire Law Enforcement Supports McCain

NEW HAMPSHIRE LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPORTS MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced members of the New Hampshire Law Enforcement Advisory Coalition. The coalition will work to build on the Arizona Senator's strong base of support in the Granite State's law enforcement community.

"I firmly believe in John McCain's ability to keep our families and neighbors safe at home and abroad," said Hillsborough County Sheriff Jim Hardy. "Throughout his life, John has displayed the courage to do what's right and we need that in our nation's leaders."

Rep. Don Buxton spoke to John McCain's lifetime of service. "John McCain understands what it means to serve his nation and community. As we work to secure our freedoms and safety at home, I know that John McCain will stand by us, and I am proud to stand by him in his run for the presidency." 

Senator John McCain stated that he is thankful for the support of these respected members of the law enforcement community. "These men and women put their communities first and have earned the respect of their neighbors," said Senator McCain. "I am proud to have them on my team and I look forward to their leadership in New Hampshire."

Iowa Leaders Join Team McCain

IOWA LEADERS JOIN TEAM MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the volunteer, grassroots leadership organization in Marion and Jasper counties. This leadership team includes elected officials, longtime Republican Party activists, veterans and other Iowans for whom Senator McCain's common sense conservative message has resonated.

"John McCain has demonstrated that he is prepared to take on the big challenges and address the important issues that face our nation," said Jasper County Chair Jack Maples. "I am excited to work with my fellow grassroots supporters to spread Senator McCain's common sense conservative message to voters throughout Iowa."

The leadership team is energized and determined to build on Senator McCain's volunteer grassroots organization in preparation for the Iowa Caucuses.

Senator John McCain expressed his gratitude for the group's support. "I am pleased to have such strong grassroots activists volunteering their time on my behalf," said Senator McCain. "With their help we will continue to grow our Iowa organization."

Jasper County Leadership Team
Jack Maples - County Chair
General Maurice Phillips - County Veterans Chair
Bob Main - County Co-Chair
Rev. Douglas Oelke - County Co-Chair
Ken Smith - Newton City Chair
Cecil Cumpton - Newton City Chair
Charlotte Maples - Newton City Co-Chair
Dr. John Fatland - Colfax City Chair
Daniel Popma - Colfax City Co-Chair
Donna Curtis - Prarie City Chair
Kathy Van Zee - Prarie City Chair
Sheryl Carter - Sully City Chair
Henry Veldhuizen - Sully City Chair
Daniel Ford - Kellogg City Chair
Norma Sharp - Newton Precinct Chair
Richard Martin - Newton Precinct Chair
Mark Linn - Newton Precinct Chair
Jody Smith - Newton Precinct Chair
John Dougan - Newton Precinct Chair
Drew Klein - Young Leaders Chair
Krista Guillaume - Young Leaders Co-Chair
Dustin Black - Young Leaders Co-Chair

Marion County Leadership Team
Mayor Darrell Dobernecker - Honorary County Chair
Paul Emerick - Pella City Chair
Doug Laughlin - Pella City Co -Chair
Jack Spaur - Knoxville City Chair

Arizona Leaders Stand With Senator McCain

ARIZONA LEADERS STAND WITH SENATOR MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's campaign today announced additional members of the Arizona Senator's campaign leadership team in his home state. The influential team is led by Senator Jon Kyl and will continue to build on Senator McCain's Arizona organization.

State Senator Jake Flake spoke to Senator McCain's principled leadership. "Senator McCain is not afraid to stand up for what he believes is in the best interests of the people of Arizona and the United States," said Senator Flake. "John McCain is a proven conservative reformer who has never wavered in his stances on the issues that matter most."

State Representative Bob Stump cited Senator McCain's experience dealing with national challenges. "Whether it's protecting our national, economic, or family security, no one is more prepared to take on tough challenges than John McCain," Rep. Stump said. "I have never seen Senator McCain shrink from taking on a tough issue, and that's the kind of resolve we need in the Oval Office."

Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup called Senator McCain a tested, experienced, and principled leader. "I am proud to support our Senator in his quest to become President of the United States," said Mayor Walkup. "No one has done more to stand by our men and women in uniform, and no one will work harder to protect our nation than John McCain."

Senator John McCain spoke of his appreciation for such an outpouring of support from his fellow Arizonans. "It's an honor to have the support of such an impressive cross-section of leaders, entrepreneurs, and reformers from my home state," said Senator McCain. "I look forward to working with my friends and neighbors in Arizona to share my common sense conservative values."