2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

New Hampshire Veterans Support McCain

NEW HAMPSHIRE VETERANS SUPPORT MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that well over 200 Granite State veterans have joined the Arizona Senator's team as members of the New Hampshire Veterans Advisory Coalition.
"With Pearl Harbor veterans and a number of Iraq War vets, this coalition spans the state, every military branch, and many of the major battles in our country's history," said Sergeant Major and advisory committee chair Paul Chevalier (Ret.). "This group of men and women represents the service and sacrifice of generations of America's veterans and we all stand proudly behind John McCain."

Airman First Class and advisory committee co-chair Dr. Griff Dalianis added, "John McCain has dedicated his life to serving his country. Throughout his Congressional career, he has fought for veterans and their families. New Hampshire Veterans for McCain will continue to grow and work on Senator McCain's behalf."

Senator John McCain applauds the service of these respected veterans and is proud to have their support. "These men, women, and their families have all made sacrifices on behalf of our great country," said Senator McCain. "I am honored to have their support and I look forward to their leadership as we move ahead in New Hampshire."

Utah Senate Majority Leader Stands With McCain

UTAH SENATE MAJORITY LEADER STANDS WITH MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Utah Senate Majority Leader Curt Bramble will support the Arizona Senator's presidential candidacy.

Senator Bramble is currently the Majority Leader of the Utah State Senate. Bramble has represented Utah's District 16 since 2001. He is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Senator Bramble spoke to Senator McCain's lifetime of leadership. "Senator McCain's lifetime of service and commitment to reform has been an inspiration," said Senator Bramble. "America needs a leader who has the courage required to lead our country through challenging times."

Senator John McCain spoke of his appreciation for Bramble's support. "Senator Bramble is a dedicated public servant and respected leader in Utah," said Senator McCain. "I look forward to working with Senator Bramble and I deeply appreciate his words of support."

Campaign Names Women For McCain Steering Committee

CAMPAIGN NAMES WOMEN FOR MCCAIN STEERING COMMITTEE
McCain Organization Continues To Grow In New Hampshire

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the names of the New Hampshire "Women for McCain" steering committee who will be working to engage and enlist women across the state in support of the Arizona Senator.

Senator McCain and his wife Cindy applaud the increasing role of women in elected office and American politics and believe this group will be instrumental in growing the campaign's outreach efforts and winning increased support from New Hampshire women.

"Now more than ever, America needs strong leadership," said Mary Lyons, a member of the New Hampshire "Women for McCain" steering committee from Portsmouth. "And I have never seen John McCain back down from dealing with tough issues."

"I'm supporting John McCain because I believe he is the most knowledgeable candidate on how to handle the Iraq war and will put our nation's safety first," said Jayne Millerick of Bow. "He has sacrificed for our country and understands the military and foreign affairs better than anyone else in the race."

The New Hampshire "Women for McCain" coalition will focus on building a grassroots team to help Senator McCain win the first-in-the-nation primary. "We're committed to impacting this election and we will have the most organized get-out-the-vote effort in state history," said Karen Cervantes of Lebanon.

Senator John McCain expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the New Hampshire "Women for McCain" coalition. "I am grateful to have the support of these women who are all actively engaged in their communities," said Senator McCain. "My wife Cindy and I will continue to reach out to women who want to create change in this country."

Iowa Leaders Join Team McCain

IOWA LEADERS JOIN TEAM MCCAIN
Campaign Unveils Additions To Leadership Team

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the North Iowa Leadership Team in advance of Governor Tim Pawlenty's visit to the area on behalf of the Arizona Senator. This leadership team includes elected officials, longtime Republican Party activists, veterans, and other Iowans who are energized by Senator McCain's common sense conservative message.

"John McCain has demonstrated that he will take on the big challenges that face our country and get results that benefit all of us," said North Iowa McCain Chair and influential Republican activist De Byerly. "I look forward to working with my fellow Iowans to spread Senator McCain's common sense conservative message throughout the Hawkeye State."

This influential leadership team will continue to build on Senator McCain's volunteer grassroots organization.

"Iowa conservatives have a clear choice in the 2008 Presidential race," Winnebago County Chair Jerry Tweeten said. "John McCain has a consistent record of fighting for traditional values, and as President he will be a powerful advocate for conservative principles."

Senator John McCain expressed his gratitude for the group's support. "I am extremely grateful to have this gifted group of Iowans volunteering their time on my behalf," said Senator McCain. "With their help we will continue to grow our strong organization of committed grassroots supporters."

North Iowa Leadership Team

Cerro Gordo County
De Byerly - North Iowa McCain Chair
Candi Schickel - Cerro Gordo County McCain Chair
State Representative Bill Schickel
Clear Lake Mayor Nelson Crabb
OJ Tomson
Marti Rodamaker
Jean Groth
Gary Wattnem - Veterans for McCain Leadership Team
Gene Madson - Veterans for McCain Leadership Team

Floyd County
Scott Jensen - Floyd County McCain Chair
Nora Springs Mayor George Andersen

Mitchell County
Verne Tanner - Mitchell County McCain Chair
Winnebago County
Jerry Tweeten - Winnebago County McCain Chair

Statements From Terry Nelson and Dave Roederer On The Iowa Straw Poll

STATEMENTS FROM TERRY NELSON AND DAVE ROEDERER

ARLINGTON, VA - Terry Nelson, Campaign Manager for John McCain 2008 issued the following statement:

"John McCain has built a solid grassroots organization in Iowa and intends to win the state's caucuses. He appreciates the unique and critical role the caucuses play in the nomination process and enjoys traveling the state, meeting Iowans, and holding town hall meetings.

"In light of today's news, it is clear that the Ames Straw Poll will not be a meaningful test of the leading candidates' organizational abilities, so we have decided to forego our participation in the event."

DES MOINES, IA - Dave Roederer, Iowa Chairman for John McCain 2008 issued the following statement:

"This weekend, Senator McCain will hold his 20th town hall meeting in our state. His straight talk on the challenging issues facing our country continues to resonate with Iowans and we are confident that his commitment to restraining government spending, protecting traditional values, and defeating Islamic extremists will ultimately lead him to victory in the caucuses."

What They're Saying, Part IV: John McCain At CNN Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING, PART IV: JOHN MCCAIN AT CNN DEBATE

John McCain "Won The Debate," Showed "Conviction And Compassion" And "Was In Total Control"

ABC's George Stephanopoulos: "John McCain Won The Debate." "[I] think John McCain won the debate last night ... [H]e really showed conviction and compassion and core principles last night." (ABC's "Good Morning America," 6/6/07)

Time's Mark Halperin: McCain Won Debate And "Commanded The Stage" With "Solid, Straight-Talking And Relaxed" Performance. "Solid, straight-talking and relaxed, in the assertive mode of what-you-see-is-what-you'll-get-if-I'm-president. ... Commanded the stage on the war several other times, and finished strong." (Mark Halperin, "The June 5 Republican Debate," Time Website, www.time.com, 6/6/07)

· Halperin: McCain "Gave Perhaps His Best Debate Answer Of The Cycle To A Woman Whose Brother Was Killed In Iraq - Passion, Patriotism, Poise, And Personality All In One Response." (Mark Halperin, "The June 5 Republican Debate," Time Website, www.time.com, 6/6/07)

MSNBC's Joe Scarborough: McCain "Was In Total Control" And "Had A Great Night." "Last night he was in total control. McCain had a great night last night." (MSNBC's "Morning Joe," 6/6/07)

New York Daily News' Michael Goodwin: "McCain Won The Night With A Showstopping Performance That Was Straight From The Heart." "[M]cCain's emotions became a decided political asset last night and led him to victory in the Republican presidential debate. McCain won the night with a showstopping performance that was straight from the heart." (Michael Goodwin, "McCain Wins Hearts - By Showing Own," [New York] Daily News, 6/6/07)

· Goodwin: McCain Delivered "Defining Picture Of The Debate" With "Touching Display Of Compassion ... A Very Commander-In-Chief Moment." "Images are everything on TV, and McCain's response to a question on the war was the defining picture of the debate. Unexpectedly rising from a chair to walk toward a woman in the audience who had lost a brother in Iraq, McCain approached as if he wanted to hug her. His voice choking, the heroic Vietnam vet assured her that, although the war had been 'badly mismanaged,' we now 'have a fine general and strategy that can succeed.' He was the only candidate in either party who could have dealt with the issue that way, and it was brilliant stagecraft as well as a touching display of compassion. It was a very commander-in-chief moment." (Michael Goodwin, "McCain Wins Hearts - By Show ing Own," [New York] Daily News, 6/6/07)

CNN Political Analyst Bill Schneider: McCain "Reminded New Hampshire Voters Of Why They Voted For Him In 2000. He Was, Once Again, The Straight Talker." "Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona, had a good night. He reminded New Hampshire voters of why they voted for him in 2000. He was, once again, the straight talker. Even on issues where most Republicans disagree with him, like immigration, McCain made his case boldly and honestly. And probably the most effective moment in the debate was his response to the voter who had lost her brother in Iraq. He made the difficult and painful argument that, in the end, she would come to understand that it was all worthwhile. The camera shots of the woman's reaction were amazing. They showed a clear emotional connection with the candidate." (Bill Schneider, "Tonight's Headline? The Sparks Didn't Fly," CNN's Political Ticker Blog, www.cnn.com, 6/5/07)

Iowa Independent Blog's Douglas Burns: McCain Won Debate, Showing "His Straight-Talk Swagger." "John McCain has recovered his straight-talk swagger. ... The former Navy war hero started with a first inning home run on a question from a New Hampshire woman who lost her brother in Iraq. He touched the GOP base with his lines that if U.S. policy fails the evildoers will 'follow us home' and that Iraq, in the wake of withdrawal, will be a 'base for terrorism.'" (Douglas Burns, "Iowa Independent" Blog, "GOP Debate: McCain Wins Varsity, Huckabee The JV," www.iowaindependent.com, 6/6/07)

The Boston Globe's Scot Lehigh: McCain Delivered "Heartfelt" Answers, Appeared "Most Principled" Of All Candidates. "[McCain's] two best moments came in his heartfelt answer to a questioner who had lost her brother in Iraq, and his willingness to remind everyone that Spanish speakers had died for this country in both Vietnam and Iraq. Bottom line: Romney was most polished - but McCain seemed most principled." (Scot Lehigh, "Essential Qualities," The Boston Globe, 6/6/07)

John McCain "Showed Heart" And Delivered "Strong Performance," Exhibiting "Strength And Humanity"

ABC's George Stephanopoulos: McCain's Dialogue With Woman Whose Brother Died In Iraq Was "Emotional Peak Of The Debate," With McCain Giving "Straight, Heartfelt Answer ... He Showed Heart." ABC's ROBIN ROBERTS: "[T]he moment for many last night, of course, when Erin Flanagan got up, so eloquent, so moving, and talking about her brother, who was killed in action in Iraq, and McCain's response to her." ABC's GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS: "That was the emotional peak of the debate, Robin, no question about it. John McCain listening intently, leaning in, gets up out of his seat - the first candidate to do that - walks toward her and gives her a straight, heartfelt answer and you could see she was visibly moved by it. That's what John McCain showed last night, he showed heart." (ABC's "Good Morning America," 6/6/07)

· New York Sun's Seth Gitell: "[N]o Other Moment Exemplified Mr. McCain At His Best." (Seth Gitell, "Seriousness Dominates GOP Debate," New York Sun, 6/6/07)

Red State's Erick Erickson: McCain Delivered The "Best Moment Of Last Night's Debate." (Erick Erickson, "Best Moment Of Last Night's Debate," Red State Blog, www.redstate.com, 6/6/07)

National Review's Kate O'Beirne: "[McCain's] Strong Answers On Iraq Contributed To An Overall Strong Performance." ("Winning Debate," National Review Website, www.nationalreview.com, 6/6/07)

The Politico's Jonathan Martin: "John McCain Turned In A Strong And Steady Performance." "John McCain turned in a strong and steady performance. He was clearly prepared for the immigration question, and offered an effective defense of his position. ... And he smartly seized an opportunity to drive home his message when there was a rare silent moment during the two hours." (Jonathan Martin, "My Final Take," www.politico.com, 6/5/07)

· Martin: "McCain Was Also Impassioned And Even Powerful When Talking About The War And Praising American Troops." "McCain was also impassioned and even powerful when talking about the war and praising American troops. Responding to the lady who lost her brother in Iraq, McCain offered his condolences before explaining why failure there would create more terror and force 'more young Americans to sacrifice, as your brother did.' And when the no-win issue of gays in the military came up, McCain wisely used his answer to focus less on the contentious question and more on explaining to an appreciative crowd just why our troops were so great." (Jonathan Martin, "My Final Take," www.politico.com, 6/5/07)

· Martin: McCain Made "His Big Picture Case About Why He's Ready To Lead." "National security wasn't just the only topic in McCain's wheelhouse he was able to take advantage of. He also had the chance to talk energy and spending, two of his other favorites. And, lastly, he showed his experience by taking advantage of the last word not to answer the question - the one where Romney and Giuliani discussed what defines the GOP - but to rather make his big picture case about why he's ready to lead." (Jonathan Martin, "My Final Take," www.politico.com, 6/5/07)

The Boston Globe's Joan Vennochi: "Vintage McCain" Displayed "Strength And Humanity." "McCain also showed strength and humanity when he answered a question from a woman whose brother died in Iraq: This is long, hard, and tough. I think we can succeed and God bless you.' It's not what the anti-war faction wants to hear, but it's vintage McCain." (Joan Vennochi, "On Principles, McCain," The Boston Globe, 6/6/07)

CBS' Vaughn Ververs: On Immigration, McCain "Rose Above The Policy And Catchphrases To Put The Issue In Human Terms." "Among the candidates themselves, McCain gave one of his steadiest performances to date. ... [I]n the second half of the debate, when audience members were allowed to ask questions, McCain rose above the policy and catchphrases to put the issue in human terms. Recalling the contributions made by Hispanic immigrants and others before, he said, 'let's, from time to time, remember that these are God's children. They must come into our country legally. But they have enriched our culture and our nation, as every generation of immigrants before them.'" (Vaughn Ververs, "GOP Debate Forecasts Stormy Days Ahead," CBS News Website, www.cbsnews.com, 6/6/07)

CBS' Jeff Greenfield: McCain Was "Extremely Animated" And "Passionate." "Last night [McCain] was extremely animated. He got up, he walked across to the woman whose brother had been killed in Iraq. He was passionate, even on immigration, where he talked about the Hispanic names on the Vietnam Memorial and serve in Iraq and Afghanistan. My sense is that he's decided that the McCain of 2000 - you know, say what you mean and damn the consequences, is where he's going." (CBS' "The Early Show," 6/6/07)

Key South Carolina Social Conservative Leaders To Advise McCain

KEY SOUTH CAROLINA SOCIAL CONSERVATIVE LEADERS TO ADVISE MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the formation of a statewide steering committee of faith-based conservatives to advise the Arizona Republican's presidential campaign on a wide range of pro-family issues.

State Senator Mike Fair (Rep-Greenville) announced he is forming the South Carolina chapter of Americans of Faith to serve as an issues advisory committee to McCain's campaign. Fair, who supported George W. Bush in 2000, is currently an advisor to the McCain campaign.

"I have chosen highly respected pro-family leaders and South Carolinians of faith to serve as the nucleus of the steering committee," said Fair.

"John McCain's character, courage, consistent conservative record, and life experiences uniquely qualify him to lead America at this critical moment in history," Fair stated. "He is the only viable candidate who has been consistently right on abortion, the defense of traditional marriage, and the effort to appoint federal judges who will interpret the law and not attempt to legislate from the bench."

During the course of the campaign, Fair and the members of the steering committee will be organizing support for the pro-family agenda and advising Senator McCain on issues important to the families of South Carolina and America.

Senator John McCain said he is fortunate to have the input and guidance of key social conservatives in South Carolina. "Each of these well respected individuals has devoted his life to improving the lives of others," said Senator John McCain. "I look forward to working with them as we continue to expand our strong grassroots organization in South Carolina."

What They're Saying, Part III: John McCain At CNN Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING, PART III: JOHN MCCAIN AT CNN DEBATE

"John McCain Won The Debate" As He Delivered "The Most Poignant Moment Of This Debate"

CNN's Amy Holmes: "John McCain Won The Debate." "[I] would say getting down to business, who won this debate tonight, I'd have to say John McCain. ... [I]n the final citizen Q&A, I think he really brought it home on immigration - how our immigrants are our friends, our neighbors, they are serving in our armed services, we need to be tough on border security, illegal immigration is wrong - but surprisingly, on this issue, I think that John McCain won the debate." (CNN's "Post-Debate Analysis," 6/5/07)

National Review's Jim Geraghty: McCain "Hit It Out Of The Park" And Was "Respectful, Dignified, And From The Gut." "And he hit it out of the park in responding to the sister of the slain soldier - respectful, dignified, and from the gut." (Jim Geraghty, "The Hillary Spot" Blog, "GOP Debate Three Wrapup," hillaryspot.nationalreview.com, 6/5/07)

GraniteGrok Blog: McCain Had The "Best Display Of Empathy ... I Was Impressed." "Best display of empathy: McCain when an audience member, Erin Flanagan, asked her question: her brother was killed in service he answered the call and was the best of the best. What will you do, as CoC, in the halls of Washington and the sands, to bring our boys home? McCain strode forward to the edge of the stage (he had been seated for the second part of the debate) to look her in the eye. 'The War has been mismanaged badly. The new general should be able to make this work, so that your brother has not died in vain.' Erin had tears in her eyes when McCain was done. ... He spoke not to the crowd, not to the TV, but to her alone. I was impressed." (GraniteGrok Blog, "Live Blogging The Debate From My Couch," www.granitegrok.com, 6/5/07)

CNN's John King: McCain Delivered "The Most Poignant Moment Of This Debate." "That was Senator John McCain of Arizona in the second half of the debate, perhaps the most poignant moment of this debate, Anderson, when that woman, Erin Flanagan, a New Hampshire voter, stood up and said that her brother had been killed in Iraq. And she asked the candidates not only what would they would do to end the war and bring the troops home, but how could they turn down the tone of the fierce political debate about Iraq in the United States." (CNN's "Post-Debate Analysis," 6/5/07)

McCain "Took The Bull By The Horns," Showing The "Courage Of His Convictions"

The Politico's Josephine Hearn: "He Took The Bull By The Horns." "I completely agree with Craig [that McCain was a winner]. I think he took the bull by the horns. We knew it was going to be in the debate. Really the biggest cheer in the two hours was when he talked about Hispanic veterans and saying that there are a lot of Hispanic name on the I have yet unanimous veterans memorial. He said earlier we have to take on the hard issues when he was talking about immigration. I think he played it very well. Nice job." (MSNBC's "Scarborough Report," 6/5/07)

· Hearn: McCain Won "The Biggest Cheer In The Entire Two Hours Was When He Talked About Hispanic Veterans." "Really the biggest cheer in the entire two hours was when he talked about Hispanic veterans and saying that there were lots of Hispanic names on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. I mean that was I think a poignant moment. ... He said earlier we have to take - we have to take on the hard issues when he was talking about immigration. I think he played it very well. Nice job." (MSNBC's "Scarborough Country," 6/5/07)

CQ Weekly's Craig Crawford: McCain Showed The "Courage Of His Convictions" And "The Other Candidates Didn't Lay A Hand On Him." "I think John McCain [was a winner] and holding his ground and defending his position on immigration reform even though he knows it's getting him hammered in the conservative base of his party, the other candidates didn't lay a hand on him. He stood his ground and he might have won a few nodding heads for at least showing a little courage of his convictions even if they disagree with him." (MSNBC's "Scarborough Report," 6/5/07)

· The Washington Post's Chris Cillizza: "McCain ... Mounted [A] Heartfelt Defense Of Immigrant Communities In The United States." "McCain later mounted an heartfelt defense of immigrant communities in the United States, inviting viewers to visit the Vietnam Memorial and notice how many hispanic names are engraved there. McCain said immigrants were all God's children' and that each immigrant community had added to the vibrancy of American culture." (Chris Cillizza, The Washington Post's "The Fix" Blog, "GOP Debate Wrap Up," blog.washingtonpost.com, 6/5/07)

McCain "Drew Loud Applause" For Criticizing Hillary Clinton On Iraq, Saying "Presidents Don't Lose Wars. Political Parties Don't Lose Wars. Nations Lose Wars." "McCain also drew loud applause ... [criticizing] leading Democratic presidential hopeful, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton of New York, when asked a question about the the war. 'When Senator Clinton says this is Mr. Bush's war, President Bush's war,' she is wrong, he said. 'When President Clinton was in power, I didn't say Bosnia was President Clinton's war,' the Arizona senator said. 'Presidents don't lose wars. Political parties don't lose wars. Nations lose wars,' he added." ("CBN News" Blog, "GOP Hopefuls Spar Over Iraq, Immigration," www.cbn.com, 6/5/07)

CNN's Jeffrey Toobin: McCain "Did Something Remarkable" With "Both The Rhetorical And ... Political High Ground." "I also thought John McCain did something remarkable. He went in there as the only candidate supporting his own bill. One out of ten, yet he had both the rhetorical and I thought the political high ground in talking about immigration which was quite a trick." (CNN's "Post-Debate Analysis," 6/5/07)

What They're Saying, Part II: John McCain At CNN Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: JOHN MCCAIN "IN A LEAGUE OF HIS OWN"

"Declare McCain The Winner" For "Stealing The Show" And "Was Noticeably In A League Of His Own"

NBC's Chuck Todd: "Declare McCain The Winner." "McCain was the news. It felt as if the first 45 minutes of the debate was all about McCain. From Iraq to immigration, the candidates essentially were point-counterpointing with McCain. So if owning the subject matter of the debate qualifies as winning, then declare McCain the winner." (Chuck Todd, MSNBC's "First Read" Blog, "Like A Heavyweight Boxing Match...," firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

The Atlantic's Marc Ambinder: McCain's Answer "Moving" "His answer to a NHer's question about ending the war in Iraq was moving, and the CNN cutaway showed that the questioner was moved." (Marc Ambinder, The Atlantic Online's "A Reported Blog On Politics" Blog, The Republican Debate," marcambinder.theatlantic.com, 6/5/07)

NBC's Domenico Montanaro: "McCain Stealing The Show." "Giuliani's following him (twice now); he slapped down Tancredo and got the loudest applause of the evening." (Domenico Montanaro, MSNBC's "First Read" Blog, firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07) 

"CNN Pipeline Commentators Were Stunned Into Silence As Senator John McCain, R-Arizona, Delivered 'The Best Moment Of His Campaign.'" "For just a few moments, the CNN Pipeline commentators were stunned into silence as Senator John McCain, R-Arizona, delivered 'the best moment of his campaign,' according to Republican strategist and one-time McCain advisor Mike Murphy. In response to a question from the sister of a fallen soldier, McCain stood up, offered his condolences and elaborated on his vision for the future of Iraq. 'It was an extremely strong answer, he charged ahead right there,' said Murphy. Pipeline analyst and Democrat Arianna Huffington was left nearly speechless - 'wow, simply wow.'" (Josh Li psky, "CNN Political Ticker," Blog, "Murphy: McCain Charg es Ahead," politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com, 6/5/07)

GOP Strategist Mike Murphy: "I think McCain had the best single moment of his campaign in that question with the woman whose brother had been killed in Iraq. He admitted mistakes, he was great and right to her on the point, no political kind of dancing to it." (CNN's Post-Debate Coverage, 6/5/07)

McCain Delivered "Bold" And "Moving" Answers, Showed "Easy Command" Of National Security And "Impassioned Presentation Of His Views"

The Atlantic's Marc Ambinder: "McCain's Easy Command On National Security Issues Drew The Evening's First Applause." "McCain's easy command on national security issues drew the evening's first applause when he criticized Hillary Clinton for calling Iraq 'Bush's war.'" (Marc Ambinder, The Atlantic Online's "A Reported Blog On Politics" Blog, The Republican Debate," marcambinder.theatlantic.com, 6/5/07)

· The Atlantic's Marc Ambinder: McCain's Answer "Moving" "His answer to a NHer's question about ending the war in Iraq was moving, and the CNN cutaway showed that the questioner was moved." (Marc Ambinder, The Atlantic Online's "A Reported Blog On Politics" Blog, The Republican Debate," marcambinder.theatlantic.com, 6/5/07)

CNN's Candy Crowley: John McCain Reaching Out To Woman Whose Brother Had Died In Iraq Was "The Most Powerful Moment Of The Night." "John McCain in a very poignant moment ... when the young woman talked about her brother who had died in the war John McCain stood up, sort of bodily reached out to her and talked about some of the mistakes that had been made that the war had been terribly mismanaged and had been what he called unnecessary sacrifices, again that was probably the most powerful moment of the night ..." (CNN's "Post-Debate Coverage," 6/5/07)

The New York Times' Katharine Q. Seelye: "McCain Seems Especially Relaxed Tonight" Delivering "Impassioned Presentation Of His Views." "Mr. McCain seems especially relaxed tonight. On a question about Hispanics, he opened with, 'Muchas gracias governor,' and turned to Mr. Romney. And he went on to advise people that when they are in Washington - no, he wasn't trashing Washington here - he told them to visit the Vietnam Memorial, where they would see a lot of Hispanic names. He has had a few days of appearing on television defending the immigration bill and has been by turns angry and adamant; this is definitely a moderate, but impassioned presentation of his views." (Katharine Q. Seelye, "The Caucus" Blog, "Live-Blogging The GOP Debate," thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com, 6/5/07)

CNN's Bill Schneider: McCain "Bold" To Defend Immigration, "He Doesn't Back Down." "Sen. John McCain is being very bold in defending the immigration bill during the debate. He doesn't back down, despite attacks from the other candidates on the stage." (Bill Schneider, "CNN Political Ticker," Blog, "Schneider: McCain Bold' To Defend Immigration," politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com, 6/5/07)

NBC's Chuck Todd: "He Led The Way In Standing Up During The Town Hall Portion Of The Debate." "His emotive high point was when he led the way in standing up during the town hall portion of the debate and showed incredible Clintonesque empathy toward the woman who lost a relative in Iraq." (Chuck Todd, MSNBC's "First Read" Blog, "Like A Heavyweight Boxing Match..." firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

GraniteGrok Blog: "McCain Got Huge Applause." "McCain spoke of Hispanic people and names on VietNam wall. Spoke about immigrants using military service to fast track citizenship. We are all God's children. He got huge applause on this answer." ("GraniteGrok" Blog, "Live from Manchester - The GOP Debate!" www.granitegrok.com, 6/5/07)

Townhall's Matt Lewis: McCain's "Got A Great Sense Of Humor." "'Muchas Gracias,' says McCain to Tancredo. You gotta give it to McCain, he's got a great sense of humor. I think he's scoring some points on being compassionate toward immigrants." (Matt Lewis, "Townhall" Blog, "The Debate Part II," www.townhall.com, 6/5/07)

What They're Saying: John McCain At CNN Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: JOHN MCCAIN AT CNN DEBATE

McCain Won The Debate With A "Beautiful, Soulful, Substantive" Performance And "Did What Few Candidates, Republican Or Democrat, Have Done So Sure-Footedly In This Campaign McCain Stepped Up"

National Review's John Podhoretz: "McCain At His Best." (John Podhoretz, National Review's "The Corner" Blog, "McCain At His Best," corner.nationalreview.com, 6/5/07)

· Podhoretz: "He gives a beautiful, soulful, substantive answer to a woman whose brother died in Iraq." (John Podhoretz, National Review's "The Corner" Blog, "McCain At His Best," corner.nationalreview.com, 6/5/07)

The New York Times' Katharine Q. Seelye: "Mr. McCain Just Did What Few Candidates, Republican Or Democrat, Have Done So Sure-Footedly In This Campaign ... McCain Stepped Up And Addressed Her In A Totally Human Way." "Mr. McCain just did what few candidates, Republican or Democrat, have done so sure-footedly in this campaign. When a woman from the audience said that her brother had been killed in Iraq, Mr. McCain stepped up and addressed her in a totally human way. The sacrifice of your brother will not be in vain,' he assured her. He seems to have well learned the Dukakis lesson from 1988: Show your heart." (Katharine Q. Seelye, "The Caucus" Blog, "Live-Blogging The GOP Debate," http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/, 6/5/07)

National Review's Jim Geraghty: "He hits it out of the park." (Jim Geraghty, National Review's "The Hillary Spot" Blog, "The Third Republican Debate, Part Three," hillaryspot.nationalreview.com, 6/5/07)

NBC's Chuck Todd: "McCain Showed His Emotional Side Which Has Always Been A Hidden Strength For Him." "On Monday, a colleague commented to me that he was amazed at the lack of empathy in the Dem candidates on stage Sunday night when CNN had a relative who was personally touched by the Iraq War. None got up and addressed the woman directly. This colleague noted: Bubba would have had his arm around her in seconds...' Well, McCain's folks clearly believed the same thing when watching on Sunday. McCain showed his emotional side which has always been a hidden strength for him." (Chuck Todd, MSNBC's "First Read" Blog, "Bill McCain? John Clinton?," firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

· New York Sun's Ryan Sager: "[McCain's] answer to a young woman whose brother died in Iraq was eloquent and clearly heart-felt." (Ryan Sager, New York Sun's "Latest Politics" Blog, "The NH GOP Debate," www.latestpolitics.com, 6/5/07)

McCain Dominated The Debate And Drove "Home His Views" As Other Candidates Played "Follow The Leader"

Politico's Jonathan Martin: "In A Very Smooth Move Sensing Opportunity, McCain Speaks Up And Gets More Time To Drive Home His Views On The Broader Immigration Issue." "In a very smooth move, McCain speaks up when the English as the official language' question is posed. Nobody else on stage, of course, dared do anything but silently acknowledge their support for such a measure. Sensing opportunity, McCain speaks up and gets more time to drive home his views on the broader immigration issue. Oh, and he slyly drops in a reference to Jeb Bush supporting the deal to all the Florida primary voters watching at home." (Jonathan Martin, Politico's "Smith And Martin" Blog, "McCain Buys More Time On His Immigration Message," www.politico.com, 6/5/07)

NBC's Mark Murray: "McCain Walks!" "[I]n addressing the woman who asked the question about losing her brother. All other GOP candidates were sitting downThis came during the second half of the debate, with all the candidates seated. McCain got up out of his chair and directly addressed the woman." (Mark Murray, MSNBC's "First Read" Blog, "McCain Walks!," firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

· Townhall's Matt Lewis: McCain Is "The First To Stand Up." "This format is much better for McCain. He's the first to stand up. He's better out from behind a podium." (Matt Lewis, "Townhall" Blog, "It's Showtime!" www.townhall.com, 6/5/07)

Hotline's Emily Goodin: Candidates Followed McCain By Standing Up. "The town hall format, which was the slower half of the Democratic debate, John McCain stood up when it was his turn to address the audience. Rudy Giuliani and Jim Gilmore quickly followed. It was much better TV." (Emily Goodin, "Hotline" Blog, "We Were Watching," hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com, 6/5/07)

· NBC's Mark Murray: "The GOP Candidates Are Following The Leader McCain." "Now Gilmore walks up....The GOP candidates are following the leader McCain." (Mark Murray, MSNBC's "First Read" Blog, "Now Gilmore," firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

NBC's Chuck Todd: "McCain Is Dominating The Subject Matter Of The Debate." "[S]o far, in this debate, McCain's point of view has been the dominant topic of discussion, be it on the war or on immigration so far, this debate is providing a media spark." (Chuck Todd, "First Read" Blog, "It's McCain's Debate Right Now " firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

CNN's Candy Crowley: Talking About Immigration Was "A Good Moment For McCain." "I thought he made a pretty strong defense of his position on immigration when he said, look kind of looking into the audience my friends, we've done exactly what you expect us to do and that is to sit down and come up with some sort of compromise.' He went on to say our job is to do the tough things, for which he got applause, so I thought that was a good moment for McCain." (CNN's "Republican Debate," 6/5/07)

· Crowley: "McCain Obviously Came Loaded For Bear McCain Is Taking The Lead." "I think McCain obviously came loaded for bear in terms of how he was going to explain this. This is obviously a conversation that he's had in many townhall meetings. So in terms of just sort of the power of their presentation, I would think McCain is taking the lead." (CNN's "Republican Debate," 6/5/07)

McCain Delivered "Fantastic" And "Good And Strong" Answers, Getting "Loud Applause"
National Review's Rich Lowry: "Fantastic statement by McCain [on Iraq] " (Rich Lowry, National Review's "The Corner" Blog, "'Presidents ... Don't Lose Wars,'" corner.nationalreview.com, 6/5/07)

Powerline's John Hinderaker: "I thought McCain was good and strong on there being no alternative to success in Iraq." (John Hinderaker, "Powerline" Blog, "Live-Blog The Republicans' Debate," www.plnewsforum.com, 6/5/07)

McCain "Received Loud Applause From The Audience For Saying That The United States Needs To Succeed In The War In Iraq" And Criticizing Hillary Clinton For Her Description Of The War. "Arizona Sen. John McCain received loud applause from the audience for saying that the United States needs to succeed in the war in Iraq. He criticized Sen. Hillary Clinton for describing the conflict in Iraq as President Bush's war. What Sen. Clinton doesn't understand is that presidents don't lose wars,' McCain said. Political parties don't lose wars. Nations lose wars and nations have the consequences of failure. We must succeed in this conflict.'" (Lauren Kornreich, "CNN Political Ticker" Blog, "McCain: Presidents Don't Lose Wars, Nations Do," politicalticker.blo gs.cnn.com, 6/5/07)

Townhall's Matt Lewis: McCain "Made A Good Point Gets The First Applause Of The Night." " McCain just made a good point that he didn't say it was President Clinton's War' in Bosnia. He gets the first applause of the night." (Matt Lewis, "Townhall" Blog, "It's Showtime!" www.townhall.com, 6/5/07)

· Politico's Jonathan Martin: "McCain Gets First Applause." "McCain gets first applause. With an attack on HRC for her criticism of Iraq as President Bush's war. It didn't hurt that he played the Bill card with the GOP crowd." (Jonathan Martin, Politico's "Smith And Martin" Blog, "McCain Gets First Applause," www.politico.com, 6/5/07)

National Review's Jim Geraghty: McCain "gets applause" in saying "Presidents don't lose wars, parties don't lose wars, nations lose wars, and we must prevail." (Jim Geraghty, National Review's "The Hillary Spot" Blog, "The Third GOP Presidential Debate Is Underway," hillaryspot.nationalreview.com, 6/5/07)

NBC's Chuck Todd: All The Candidates Listened "Intently To His Lecture About What's Next For Iraq. It Was A Powerful Moment For McCain." "There was just a moment on the tube where CNN showed every Republican candidate angled to McCain listening intently to his lecture about what's next for Iraq. It was a powerful moment for McCain and a photo the McCain folks will want on the cover of tomorrow's Union Leader." (Chuck Todd, "First Read" Blog, firstread.msnbc.msn.com, 6/5/07)

RedState's Erick Erickson: McCain On Iraq "Is Well Said." "McCain is willing to own the war. His take on of Senator Clinton and Brownback's partition plan is well said." (Erick, "RedState" Blog, "Miscellaneous Debate Thoughts," www.redstate.com)