Projo Politics Blog

HOUSTON -- Former President George H.W. Bush endorsed John McCain today, a nod of approval from the Republican political dynasty’s patriarch that sends a strong signal to a GOP establishment wary of the Arizona senator.

“No one is better prepared to lead our nation at these trying times than Sen. John McCain,” Bush said, standing alongside the Republican nominee-in-waiting in an airport hanger. “His character was forged in the crucible of war. His commitment to America is beyond any doubt. But most importantly, he has the right values and experience to guide our nation forward at this historic moment.”

McCain, in turn, said he was deeply honored by support from Bush, father of outgoing President George W. Bush.

Since effectively sealing the nomination when chief rival Mitt Romney dropped out, McCain has been working to convince the fickle and influential conservative base of the Republican Party to get behind his candidacy.

He’s seen some progress, with several high profile Republicans from the party’s establishment endorsing McCain in an effort to unite the party while Democrats continue to fight for a nominee. Still, McCain has much work to do to energize the party behind his candidacy to ensure that its people turn out this fall.

During a campaign stop in Rhode Island last week, about a thousand supporters turned out for a rally, where Governor Carcieri added his endorsement of McCain's candidacy.

-- The Associated Press, with projo.com reports

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