January 26, 2008
Posted: January 26th, 2008 07:51 PM ET

(CNN) – Florida Gov. Charlie Crist endorsed Sen. John McCain Saturday in his bid for the GOP presidential nomination.

"We have a lot of great people who are running for president this year who would all do well," Crist said at a dinner in Saint Petersburg, Florida with McCain.

"I don't think anybody would do better than the man who stands next to me, Sen. John McCain; that's an endorsement."

Later, he told reporters that "I just felt compelled to do it.  It’s just a gut call.  I think he’s the right guy."

Florida voters go to the polls to cast their ballots for the Republican nomination on Tuesday.

Filed under: Florida


T Kizewski   February 4th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

How can ANYONE LIKE McCain??? By his own words he doesn't understand economics. He is McAmnesty and his UNSERVED Arizona Constituency know it, that is why they are filing petitions to get SOME enforcement of immigration laws in their state. And if I hear that turkey necked yellow teeth grinch say one more time that he was a "foot soldier in the Reagan Revolution" I think I will puke! I voted for Reagan in 1984 – and McCain is NO foot soldier – more like a door stop. IF THE GOP ARE STUPID ENOUGH TO PICK HIM FOR THEIR CANDIDACY, I WILL VOTE INDEPENDENT!!!!

Economy Romney = Jobs   January 29th, 2008 2:29 am ET

What did McCain promise him for the endorsment ???

McCain is a wild card lets not gamble our future away,

Play it safe and vote Economy Romney. A strong America needs a stong economy for a stong military.

Matt - Florida   January 28th, 2008 11:47 am ET

I disagree with McCain on a whole host of issues (devout liberal here). However, unlike any other republican candidate in the last 25 years, I would be open to his presidency because I believe he is an honest and straightforward man. His policies reflect what he thinks is right, not what he thinks others want to hear. He doesn't pander to the base, or manipulate with religion and fear.

Ken   January 28th, 2008 11:06 am ET

I agree with you Marg(, January 27, 2008 6:21 pm ET)
maybe being tortured as prisoner of war taught him something. Perhaps it would be a good lesson for the other candidates , and the bush administration as well.

Jorge Villa   January 28th, 2008 10:46 am ET

I'm a Democrat, but I'm voting for McCain if he wins. Obama is too conservative & Hillary is too stubborn. McCain is Republican but more modern and willing to work with both parties.

Obama is to religious for me!!! and that equal stubborness.
Hillary is just stubborn. We dont need any more Bushes in office, we need someone that has comprehension, and even if they are wrong they are willing to correct it. WE ARE ALL HUMANS AND MAKE MISTAKE, thats why we should be attacking anyone when they change opinions. Thats a good thing, shows comprehension.

David ~Austin, TX   January 28th, 2008 8:42 am ET

David January 26, 2008 10:42 pm ET

And one more thing, I know this isn't politically correct…..but how does being a prisoner for 5 years somehow make you a war expert? I don't think he has any better ability then any of the other players in the feild

John McCain is a third generation service member (his father and grandfather were both decorated 4 star admirals). Neither was he just a prisoner for 5 years (as you claim). McCain's service started at the U.S. Naval Academy in '54. In 1967 (9 years after enlisting), McCain was shot down over Vietnam. He endured years of systmatic abuse and torture at the hands of the North Vietnamese. He was released in 1973, and retired from the U.S. Navy in 1981, 27 years after enlisting. During his military career, he received a Silver Star (the third highest award given for valor in the face of the enemy), a Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit, the Purple Heart, and a Distinguished Flying Cross. His service in Congress has also dealt, in large part, with the U.S. Military. He was a member of the 1991–1993 Senate Select Committee on POW/MIA Affairs, convened to investigate the fate of U.S. service personnel listed as missing in action during the Vietnam War. He is also the Ranking Minority Member of the Senate Committee on Armed Services.

John McCain's service to his country is extensive, and it is a family tradition. A tradition carried on by two of his sons, one is in the U.S. Naval Academy, the other is in the Marines.

As to your original question, what about any of the other candidates experience would make them a "war expert" (to use your phrase)? After all even if your original charge (that McCain was a POW for "only" 5 years) was correct, not one of the other candidates has ever served in the U.S. Military. I would say that this makes McCain more of an expert than any of the others.

As Mike pointed out if you're going to discuss an issue, it would be beneficial to have reviewed the basic facts first.

tw   January 28th, 2008 6:38 am ET

Yes, Brandon. The first thing this country needs is a Mormon to tell me that I'm drinking too much caffeine and not having enough babies. Exactly the kind of man I want to tell me about "values."

Go Obama

jean   January 28th, 2008 6:12 am ET

I can make my own mind up these endorsements mean nothing. To me they are condsending to the ordinary voter. duh ??? they dont live in the world of the average Joe.Are we to be impressed

Sidney   January 28th, 2008 4:02 am ET

RD thanks it's people like you that send us back to the dark ages. Burn them at the stake their witches! For pete sakes keep your religion out of my politics!

ROY   January 28th, 2008 12:45 am ET

The biggest issue to yet be discussed is whether the Republican presidential nomination can be bought. Romney currently having spent $30-$40 million dollars of his own money on his campaign is at some point going to be a huge issue. No candidate in either party should be able to simply outlast everyone due to his bank balance.

B.B.   January 28th, 2008 12:20 am ET

I'm a republican and I didn't vote for Charlie Crist. Now I see more evidence as to why I did that. If he is supporting McCain...amnesty for illegal aliens and not securing the borders...it's gonna be a long 2 more years until we can get us another Fl. Governor.

Greg Creager   January 27th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

I am sick of people only showing part of the quote on 'time tables and benchmarkes" he was agreeing with the bush policy and if you read up said he would do what Bush said, veto any timetable on withdraw.

This is very dishonest and many are calling him on it.

Richard, Ewing NJ   January 27th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Huckabee has came out this Sunday and stated that Romney does indeed support a secretive troop withdrawal deadline. The accusation is not based on the ABC interview which some people think Romney may have misspoke or that McCain has exaggerated. Huckabee's accusation is based on Senator Mark Pryor and other documents. If this is true, then it is very damaging for Romney.

Kelly   January 27th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

To those making an issue of Romney's religion. You do more to sway me toward his campaign than steer me away. You sound ignorant and bigoted.

Tom McCain   January 27th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Why McCain, maybe because you are a democrat? Let's be honest the people on this board for McCain are either dems or lobbyist that want a washington insider.

Mitt Romney said in the last debate that he does not owe anyone (lobbyist) any favors for giving him money which is true. Mitt is a Washington outsider unlike McCain so think about who really wants McCain to go against the Clintons. The answer is the dems, the media and the lobbyist.

Marg   January 27th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

I disagree with some of McCain's stands on issues, especially on the war,
but– other than that– I like him better than any of the other Republicans.
I plan to vote for a democrat.

Chad   January 27th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Mit Romney stands for the ideals and concepts that make America a great nation. He is an honest good man that will serve an not be served. We need leaders in this country who are willing to make a stand for what is right. We don't need puppets taking the highest bidders. Vote Romney!!!

Romney 2008

KW   January 27th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

As a country, we've waited a long time for someone with the courage, morals and know how that MITT ROMNEY has. He's not ideal but he's the closest one that I've seen in a long time with what this country needs right now. I normally vote democratic but this guy will be the exception this year!

Ronald   January 27th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Romney will flip-flop on any issue depending on who he is speaking to. In Michigan he promised that if elected his first 90 days in office will be focused on restoring the US auto industry. How in the world would he be able to do that. He is full of empty promises and will say anything to get elected. I support McCain, too.

Jordan   January 27th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Pepe,

Creationists do not shun science or reason. Maybe you should educate yourself.

"Huckleberry" believes that God created everything in this universe. He is not the only one. ANY candidate who aligns themselves with orthodox historical Christianity believes in a God who created the universe.

"BANG"...and the world existed because God did it. Since God created science and reason, i am not sure why you think we have to eliminate them as factors.

Religion should be a big part of a any presidential race. Religion is not private. It forms ones' presuppositions, beliefs, and worldview. This directly impacts the policy that these men and women will put into place.

McCain '08.

anthony   January 27th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Wow, I really am disappointed in Crist. didn't he watch any of the debates? I know Crist isn't stupid. It must feel horrible to have your hands tied.

Pepe   January 27th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

If you make religion an issue, don't forget about Huckleberry. He is a Creationist – a group of people who shun science and reason. Sounds like a great quality for a president to have! If you are going to hate, be sure and find the faults in all the candidates religions, if they have a religion....

Jeremiah Grant - Phoenix, AZ   January 27th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Just one more example of how McCain is all about political paybacks. There's no question but that he got this endorsement because of all the work he did to get Crist elected. Plus they're all senate cloak room friends – McAmnesty, Graham, Martinez..

Enough! This same gaggle of people are who haven't gotten anything done in the last eight years. Goodness, McAmnesty has been there for 24 years and all he's accomplished is writing a few pieces of horrible legislation with a bunch of Democrats.

If you want more of the same, McCain is your man. If you want someone free from political paybacks. someone who manages to accomplish more than one piece of legislation every six years, then Governor Romney is your man.

Past vs. the future. Empty promises vs. results and accomplishments. Liberal legislation vs. conservative leadership. Political debts vs. freedom to do what's right because it's right. The choice is clear.

Mitt Romney – a PROVEN LEADER with the EXPERIENCE to CHANGE WASHINGTON

rip747   January 27th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Sorry to say but McCain is a war monger like Bush. If he's elected, be prepared to be in this war for the next 100 year (a direct quote he has made). Coupled with the fact that he has admitted that economics isn't his strong point (another direct quote he made).

Romney is no better. He wants to stay in the war as well. I think the reason people support him is because he states he wants to lower taxes like all the other candidates. I don't get how you can afford to fight a war overseas that is as expensive as this war has been, while still lowering taxes?

Personally I believe that within the first 4 years of either parties presidency, this country will go bankrupt. Within those 4 years, the dollar will be weakened to the point where the pound is 4 fold the dollar's value (it's 2 fold now) and the dollar will be on the same level as the peso.

Call me an idiot like you all will, buy I'm endorsing Ron Paul to the bitter end.

Everyone I talk to always tells me that they want to get out of this war, they want their taxes and they're tired of paying close to 4 dollars a gallon for gas. They all say this, yet they'll turn around and endorse people like McCain, Romney or Huckabee while calling Ron Paul a lunatic. I just don't get it.

I think the American people wants to see this country go into turmoil. By endorsing the other candidates I feel they're on their way there.

Mahmoud Dweik   January 27th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Kucinich 08!

Mike   January 27th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

David,

McCain never indicated 5 years as a POW is what gives him his experience as a war expert, that's your opinion. McCain has been a leader in foreign policy and wars for years. Maybe you should read & listen a little more before talking.

McCain's history in the Senate on foreign policy/affairs makes him the clear leader on the subject.

Please don't downplay McCain as being a prisoner. He was a POW for 5 years in the Hanoi Hilton. Pick up a book or two and see what he went through before downplaying that as simply a prisoner. We're not talking about your normal state prison here.

The others issues, economy being the big one for me, that's another story. But nobody can come close to McCain when it comes to foreign policy

Mat, Ohio   January 27th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

I am a moderate republican, who can vote either way in a general election. If Mccain is selected, i will have no choice but to vote for a Republican president. If any of the others are chosen, then it will have to be the Democrats for me. Well done Governor Crist!

Andy   January 27th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

I think McCain is the only GOP candidate who can beat Clinton or Obama. He's been loyal to his country and he's a real leader. As a president he could hire managers like Romney.

Jeff   January 27th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

How can you possibly compare McCain to Dole? As far as McCain vs. Romney...America needs a president with an honest word through a gentle voice and a strong fist. McCain 3 Romney 0.

Duncan, Richmond, VA   January 27th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

People should have to endorse a candidate at the very beginning when it is not know who will do well.. instead of waiting to see who the front running is and then endorsing them to hopefully get favors later.

Christian, Tampa FL   January 27th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

I'm not surprised. Charlie is pretty moderate, and so is McCain. I've long thought that McCain can be the most bipartisan republican, but I'm not so sure after the last debate and his recent comments that we could be "in Iraq for a hundred years" for all he cares.

Tom, Boston, MA   January 27th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Whoopdidoooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!

J. Dean, Juno Beach, FLORIDA   January 27th, 2008 11:48 am ET

ONE MORE TIME WE HAVE WITNESSED AN OLD PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE, NAMELY JOHN McCAIN LYING AGAIN ON MEET THE PRESS DURING AN INTERVIEW WITH TIM RUSSERT.
JOHN McAIN IS BECOMING A PATHOLOGICAL LIER SIMILAR TO THE CURRENT PRESIDENT. JOHN McCAIN IS MAKING THOSE LIES JUST TO GET VOTES, WHICH IS ABSOLUTELY WRONG. AS A REPUBLICAN, I RESENT TO THE FACT THAT THIS IS NOT THE FIRST TIME JOHN McCAIN IS LYING. JOHN McCAIN IS NOT YET NOMINATED, JOHN McCAIN IS NOT YET ELECTED, IMAGINE WHAT TYPE OF LIES WE WILL BE SUBJECTED TO IF AND WHEN HE ACCUPIES THE WHITE HOUSE ?
IS THIS WHAT WE HAVE TO EXPECT FROM OUR FUTURE LEADERS ? I BELIEVE OLD AGE IS HAVING TO BIG EFFECT ON JOHN McCAIN.
A REPUBLICAN FROM FLORIDA

pbj   January 27th, 2008 11:46 am ET

That "gut call" was obviously after it was clear Rudy was falling. I'm wondering what McCain promised Crist. McCain's donor list? If you want someone who knows the economy, it's not McCain, it's Mitt.

John   January 27th, 2008 11:33 am ET

I just wanted to say I fully support Romney as President. The More I hear him talk that only reinforces my decision. As for McCain. He will probably die in office.

Tony   January 27th, 2008 11:18 am ET

This endorsement means NOTHING to me! McCain is a bad choice for Floridians and a bad choice for America, and no endorsement will change that fact. I'm stupified at how McCain repeatedly goes against our conservative principles, yet still tries to convince us that he's the best Republican candidate.

My vote is for Mitt Romney, an outstanding leader and a man who will stand for our conservative principles.

Go Romney!

Brian   January 27th, 2008 11:18 am ET

I think it is unfortunate that Crist endorsed anyone before the state primary.

David, Oregon City   January 27th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Can John McCain pull conservatives together with his prior liberal voting record? Not a chance! A vote for McCain is a vote for more of the same!

Can Mitt Romney buy the White House? Maybe!

I avoided the elite media’s “Rush” and supported the real change of Mike Huckabee!

William Dieck   January 27th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Anyone that watches what goes on in congress on C-span knows John McCain is the only one that has enough backbone to stand up on a given issue. He does not check to see which way the wind is blowing first. I am a conserative and I am tired of the pork barrel spending and he is the only one that has stood up.
Now everyone gets on his band wagon trying to look like him to get elected. I am not fooled.
Where did Romney get his start. It was his dads money who as head of American motors and you know where that company went. As Govonor of a liberal state Romney was no conservative. The truth is McCain is the only conserative in the bunch, Mark my word.

Danny   January 27th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Romney is a joke! Sooner or later his (Mitt's) fund raising scandal will break and that should do it! He can only pay off and buy so much media (Limbaugh & CO.) with his money.

Ruthie   January 27th, 2008 10:48 am ET

That is too bad. If McCain wins election we will be at war indefinately.
I am thinking about moving to a different country. Living in a country that aggressively attacks other countries and uses big guns to enforce thier system and beliefs, inspiring world wide hatred and resentment, has a broken economy and taxes their people to death, is not very appealing to me.

America Forever   January 27th, 2008 10:02 am ET

McCain needs all the help he can get because Mitt is pounding him down.

No worries, politics as usual....the voters are the real "endorsements".

GO MITT!

BB Orlando   January 27th, 2008 9:59 am ET

JOHN McCAIN HAS BEEN ENDORSED BY THE LATIN BUILDERS OF FLORIDA AND MEL MARTINEZ, THE STAUNCH SUPPORTER AND PUSHER OF AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL ALIENS.

WHY WOULD THEY ENDORSE McCAIN? MAYBE BECAUSE THEY KNOW HE STILL SUPPORTS AMNESTY FOR ILLEGAL ALIENS.

REMEMBER McCAIN ARROGANTLY SAYING "I WILL PAY $50 AN HOUR TO ANY AMERICAN WHO WOULD DO THE HARD WORK ON HIS FARM."

REMEMBER, FOLKS. ANYBODY BUT McCAIN AND ANYBODY BUT LOVER BOY GIULIANI.

MJ   January 27th, 2008 9:47 am ET

Go McCain!

He actually won in New Hampshire AND South Carolina in both the independent and Republican voting blocks. And oh by the way liberals do not vote in the Republican Primaries. It's now just a matter of time until McCain trounces Romney in Florida.

Is Romney for abortion or against it now?? I can't tell it keeps changing....oh I know all you have to do is look at which is more convinient!!

Mac   January 27th, 2008 9:26 am ET

Mccain is a good man but this endorsement was between Rudy and Mccain and Mccain got it because he has the momentum and looks likely to win. I am good with either Mccain or Rudy but I will cast my vote for Rudy because I think he's stronger on the economic and domestic security areas. However, if mccain is nominated then I'll give him a hesitated nod.

The Romney people will scream at this post but honestly, I think Romney is just not with the right experience to run a country. I can not honestly buy the idea that running a private company is the same as running a country. Besides, he's changed his positions so much that voters can't gauge where his principles lies.

Mark J   January 27th, 2008 9:23 am ET

Mitt Romney definitely has my vote! The difference between McCain and Romney is: an angry, lifelong professional politician versus a fresh, real world experience leader with ethics. The Dems want McCain to win the nomination because he has plenty of scandalous fodder in his background and marriages that can be used to defeat him. Romney has a clean slate with positive results in business, politics and in his personal life.

Lori   January 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

Crist is a liberal republican, McCain is like kind.

Richard   January 27th, 2008 8:51 am ET

Jared, you should stay in Korea. If romney wins it will be the same ol big business controls everything. You sir need to come back to reality and understand the GOP has hurt America.

- See you wouldnt know that living in Korea.

Pat   January 27th, 2008 7:57 am ET

Mitt Romney has the chance to become the first pro-choice, pro-gun control, pro-gay rights, pro-affirmative action, Republican president in history, unless he has flip-flopped again. If you don't like one of his positions, just wait a few days, and his opinion will change, again.

diligentdave   January 27th, 2008 7:47 am ET

For heaven's sakes, the NY Times ALSO endorsed McCain, AND HILLARY!!

I find that the more other politicians and papers endorse someone, that's generally who I run from!

But, besides that, Romney is the only candidate who has the both the intelligence and the lack of personal life intrigue to lead the nation from turmoil (which is what we see in McCain's campaign staffs, and you'll see in his cabinet, if he is elected president) and trouble.

If this is merely for "prom king" or some other popularity contest, then go and waste your vote on McCain. As one conservative observer pointed out, McCain, not Romney, is the candidate who will say anything to get elected, as he has been doing, not juste for years or months, but in recent weeks and days!

The media love McCain, because he is liberal, like them. And also because he feeds them good sound bytes.

The endorsement that counts for ME (and should for YOU), is that of true conservative American voters!

Even Rush Limbaugh has said that if McCain gets the Republican nomination, conservativism in the Republican Party (in fact the party itself) will be lost! Though Rush is often bombastic and arrogant–on that point he is 'dead on' right!

Florida Republicans. Vote for true POSITIVE change, not just changing chairs in Washington. Vote for Mitt Romney! He has changed big things. He can help change our government and nation for the better!

patrick   January 27th, 2008 4:19 am ET

im sorry but the republican base has shrunk to much for a win in 2008

Richard, Mckinney, Texas   January 27th, 2008 3:32 am ET

another open border endorsement...jeb bush will endorse romney..

Scott   January 27th, 2008 3:26 am ET

LOL. I have never voted democrat in my life but I will vote for either Hillary or Obama before I will cast a vote for Romney. That guy is a "say anything to win" used car salesman. Michigan told me what I need to know about him. "I will fight for every job". Stop it...those jobs aren't coming back and Mitt knows it...but boy it sounds good. I will support McCain first, Obama second, Hillary third, and anyone but Mitt fourth.

BA   January 27th, 2008 2:59 am ET

Is the governor nuts? McCain is showing his true colors after the debate. He knew that Romney had a great night and it made him look worse than what he already does! So, what does he do? McCain is a liar! He can't play fair in this race because he knows he is a loser himself. Some all American hero! McCain just lost all creditability with me. He doesn't deserve to be called an American hero. Heros are honest and play fair. I hope that the American people can see what a desperate loser he is.

Hey   January 27th, 2008 2:33 am ET

Mac time!!!

MAC IS BACK! MAC IS BACK! MAC IS BACK!

Farris   January 27th, 2008 2:18 am ET

To Paul Thompson. You misunderstood Romney. He is going to win the election with the first African-American woman Vice President Rice as running mate. No, he didn't really say that yet, but it would win over a McCainHillbillary ticket which is the only chance the liverals have of winning this time.

Florida Decides   January 27th, 2008 2:06 am ET

Who do you think Romney should pick as his running mate?

Daniel   January 27th, 2008 1:44 am ET

Endorsements don't mean a thing. Floridians like me have made up their mind: Mitt Romney '08.

tcb   January 27th, 2008 1:36 am ET

Mit is the man to lead this country! McCain is a liberal and hardley ever votes with republicans...he is an old washed up man!

Anonymous   January 27th, 2008 1:30 am ET

Romney? Lets be serious people.

RedState   January 27th, 2008 1:25 am ET

McCAIN '08!

Mr 1st Lady   January 27th, 2008 1:25 am ET

I bet voters remember this endorsement when Crist is up for re-election. Even the elderly in Florida are tired of endless wars and amnesty

Beth   January 27th, 2008 1:05 am ET

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. McCain is way to old and is not all with it.

Jared C.- in Korea   January 27th, 2008 1:05 am ET

Romney- You have the experience, the leadership, and the morals we need to lead our nation.

You are the man! We support you overseas.
You will win Florida and you will be the nominee.

Romney 2008!

bankrupt   January 27th, 2008 1:04 am ET

McCain should do well in Florida, there are lot of people his age there.. :)

Toto   January 27th, 2008 1:01 am ET

I think McCain will be knocked out of the race after Florida results come in.

Sean   January 27th, 2008 12:58 am ET

McCain would be a lot easier to believe if he wasn't spreading outright lies about Romney's position on Iraq and wasn't using cheap attack tactics. He seems a little desperate, and now a little dishonest.

john   January 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

The Clintons will not surrender without a huge fight first. Obama has
the momentum right now. He must keep his eye on the prize, however,
and not be distracted by whatever these two hammer at him.

Chad   January 27th, 2008 12:32 am ET

This is just a tit for tat. McCain helped Crist campaign to be governor in '06 and some of Romney's advisors served as advisors for Crist's opponent. I just hope people don't blow this out of proportion.

Hardcore Republican   January 27th, 2008 12:26 am ET

Crist got the right man. He is the only one who knows how to fight radical Islam and he is the only candidate to have actually been to Iraq.

mahesh Patel   January 27th, 2008 12:11 am ET

Florida Governer has done the right thing.McCain is the the right horse to bet.
We need a Republican for another eight years.

Tyler   January 26th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

I hope this pushes Jeb Bush to finally endorse Romney to even the playing field. Romney's the alone one who can fix our economy! McCain has admitted publicly that he needs guidance when it comes to the economy.

Andrew   January 26th, 2008 11:49 pm ET

McCain will give the Democrats their run for the money. When it comes to the general elections, Democrats rely more heavily on independents than Republicans do; Republicans can simply mobilize the base. Which group does McCain get a lot of support from? Independents.

Greg   January 26th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

I find it interesting that so many people who call themselves conservatives haven't served their country. McCain has guts, whether it's telling the liberals that America must win the war in Iraq or telling the 'flat earth society' that global warming is a reality. But, hey I guess somebody like Mitt Romney makes you feel better because he's willing to lie to you. After all, you should trust a guy who claims to be a conservative and wouldn't serve his country. Oh yeah, and none of his five sons will serve their country either. Conservative? Sure, as long as it doesn't require any personal service.

Spencer   January 26th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

It is apparent that his gut and not his brain made the call.

SJ   January 26th, 2008 11:42 pm ET

Oh no.

2kc   January 26th, 2008 11:41 pm ET

KC, none of the republicans can win this time. To win, the candidate has to both get out the party base AND get people in the middle to vote for them. The Democrats have a more energized base and the middle has moved to the left over the last 8 years, making it hard for a candidate, that the Republican base considers conservative, to win.

The middle has moved left (to me, looks like the middle has moved dramatically to the left).

FYI, liberal independents don't vote for McCain, the vote for a democrat.

Moderates are the ones that vote for McCain.

I would have voted for McCain in 2000 if republicans had nominated him, but given a choice between Gore and Bush, I held my nose and voted for Gore.

If it wasn't for the current make up of the SCOTUS, I'd still vote for McCain, but 8 years later the court has moved too far to the right. With that said, if it's McCain, I'll at least have to think about it. And it'll definitely be the first time that i wasn't at least partially voting against a candidate.

As for Dole, he was never going to beat Bill. The Economy was good and the Rep Base aside, the country was generally happy with him.

Hiro   January 26th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

I think we've had enough "gut" politics for the past eight years. The Fla. Gov needs to use his brain and make an intelligent endorsement.

~

Duane Knapp   January 26th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

In reading your report on the political news,One cannot help but notice the Media deliberate attempt to leave Mike Heckabee's name completely out. He won in Iowa and South Carolina he came in second. But in reading your reports tonight I didn't see his name anywhere in any of your reports. It's know wonder that people can't trust the media to do a good job reporting the news.

Keith - Mo   January 26th, 2008 11:29 pm ET

Its good news. it shows that the Republicans are beginning to surround a candidate they believe can win. I voted for George W Bush in the 2000 primary over John McCain.

This year, I am supporting John McCain. Its the moment and the time. Best of luck John.

Jeremy   January 26th, 2008 11:21 pm ET

Any Republican or conservative who would like to experience a Hillary Clinton America – by all means, vote Romney or Huckabee. But for those of you who don't want to spend the next 4-8 years marginalized as the "Vast Right-Wing Conspiracy", I'd recommend getting behind McCain. The man is a solid conservative and the defining patriot of our times. So what if he supported a temporary worker's program for the undocumented? He's pro-life, a fiscal conservative, and has good judgement on Iraq. Do you folks really want to spend the next 4-8 years bearing the brunt of Queen MacBeth's misdirected hostility about Bubba? Rush Limbaugh is flat wrong on this one. The only thing that will end the Conservative era is if we conservatives are naive enough to take the advice of that bloated pill-popping loud-mouth. To all Republicans: unite or face the consequences!!!

Eugenio   January 26th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

KC, im sorry to tell you but Mitt Romney is not a moderate conservative, he is a conservative who wanted the evangelical vote, but could not beat Huckabee to it. Mccain is the only moderate conservative in the GOP race. Paul is a libertarian who does not believe in any sane solutions, Huckabee is running on the hope that the evangelical vote will get him thru and Guliani is running on fake advertisement.

Mitt Romney has polarized the independent vote in a way that they will not support him because of his "pro-family" agenda, which im sorry to tell you has nothing to do with family just on the idea that he is a more pius and morale man than i am. The GOP is realizing that yes they have more base support than the democrats, but its the independents that you need to win an election. In '06 the lost Congress because they did not cater to independents and lost. The democrats in the same fashion lost an ally by not supporting leiberman and he still won has an independant.

Mccain is the only man who can deliver a sure victory to the GOP and further more he is the only real republican out there. Smaller goverment and stronger rights for individuals is what my Grand Old Party stood for until people like you came and ruined it by telling everyone how pius you are, please i beg you stop ruining my party and get out. Morality is an individual's choice not what is dictated by some book which you misinterpret all the time.

Paul Thompson   January 26th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Mitt speak???....or are we listening to his handlers?

I read Mitt is changing his position again...he's going to run as the first African-American woman candidate now.

RD   January 26th, 2008 10:55 pm ET

Mormon Mitt Romney believes that Jesus and the Devil are brothers. Thats directly off the Mormon website, so forget about disputing it.

You have the ultra-reactionary cultist Romney, who as the very comments in this thread demonstrate, couldn't get a single independent of democratic vote...

vs. McCain, who could win the general election.

McCain is the only real choice for republicans.

Jeffrey Hastings   January 26th, 2008 10:49 pm ET

McCain's poor stands on campaign finance and immigration reform rule him out for me. His disingenuous reaction to public opposition of the McCain-Kennedy immigration reform bill shows his inner arrogance and contempt for the will of the people. He says now he got the message and will advocate border security first but it's clear to me he can't be trusted, as a longtime Washington insider. Of the Republicans, I think Mitt Romney is best qualified and most sincere on his plan to deal with illegal immigration. I find ALL Democratic candidates unacceptable due to their insane tolerance for continued illegal immigration and endless pandering to illegal immigrants and their activists. If this problem isn't solved, it's the end of America as we know it.

Brandon   January 26th, 2008 10:45 pm ET

The Republican base is rallying around Romney because he is the true conservative and the only one who can defeat Clinton OR Obama come November. His family values and economic know-how are exactly what we need as a country right now. Vote for Mitt!

David   January 26th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

Great, another politician has endorsed McCain........are we catching on to this yet people.....why do liberal outlets like newspapers continue to endorse McCain as well as politicians?

Romney wants to go to washington and change washington, of course the politicians are against that.

If it came down to Obama vs McCain, I would pick Obama because at least he is man enough to admit he is a liberal deomocrat.

And one more thing, I know this isn't politically correct.....but how does being a prisoner for 5 years somehow make you a war expert? I don't think he has any better ability then any of the other players in the feild

I am part of a anybody but McCain or Hillary campain!

CTD4JM   January 26th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

This endorsement, coupled with Sen Martinez's will hopefully put Senator McCain over the top in Florida and give him momentum to do very well on Super Tuesday. Republicans are beginning to see that McCain represents the best hope to beat any Democrat in November. Romney is a guaranteed loser in a general election – he can't get Democrat or Independent votes and he'll be tarred as a flip-flopping chardonnay sipping elitist. Just say no to His Royal Mittness!

BG   January 26th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

KG,

McCain actually won the registered Republican vote in NH.

Just because he is liked by independants doesn't mean he is liberal. In many ways, McCain is conservative. McCain is the only Republican who has a chance of being elected in the general election.

Romney is "brilliant" because he tells you what you want to hear. He changes his views and message every state he is in. 10 times the flip flopper Kerry is!!

Kjetil   January 26th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

The question is who wil loose against the democrat candidate. They dont get so many republican too wote in primary and entusiasm is low. But John McCain might stop that a lot of Senate or Congress seats looses together with President election.

charlton   January 26th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

McCain will lose to Hillary or Obama. McCain is a Washington dinosaur. Mitt Romney is an outsider fighting an uphill battle now, but the GOP's best chance of bringing back Republican core values. The party is divided now and McCain will not win in November.

Claude   January 26th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Blah blah blah blah blah!!!!! I wonder why the "Scooter Store " hasnt come out with endorsement for McCain?

Craig   January 26th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

As a Florida Republican I can honestly say that Crist's endorsement doesn't mean anything! Crist misled the Republican voters in Florida (including me!) into thinking he was a conservative – he has proven time and time again that he is a populist, centrist republican and does not represent the true Florida conservatives! He is a one term Gov.! Go MITT!

Moe   January 26th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

McCain is the GOP's best hope against the Democrats in November. If Guiliani weren't still getting 15-20% in the Florida polls, the outcome in Florida would not be in any doubt at all. McCain should win this, but it will be close. It's too bad that a few wonks in the party machine and a couple talk show hosts have it in for McCain because he is a good man and, yes, a true conservative.

jf   January 26th, 2008 10:04 pm ET

John McCain is the correct choice for the following reasons:
1. He is the leader that this nation needs in troubled, unpredictable times.
2. He is the one Republican candidate, and only one, that can beat Hillary or Obama in the general election.
3. And most important, John McCain is unquestionably a strong, honorable, and honest man. This is agreed upon by all. When is the last time we could say that about a politician?

earl illingsworth   January 26th, 2008 10:02 pm ET

Gov. Crist endorsement is meaningless in the state of Florida. With political pundits saying McCain will get fantastic organizational help, and a heads-up with congressional delegates,not! People, you better start thinking twice? He's the floundering fish out of water, that's very slippery, with questionable legislation that makes him and McCain the perfect pair. He's a one term governor, whose election platform was won on Insurance Reform, which caved into the lobbyist once elected. So, the GOP, can have the state, and all the fury from the past eight years that the DEM's victory will bestow !!! Hillary and Obama are better than Romney,McCain ,Giuliani and Huckabee !!! Oh and by the way 100years at war ,costing approximately 1.25Trillion Dollars annually, should leave this country a "4th World Country," I think their is a better way GOP!

pjs   January 26th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

McCain showed his true character in the debate the other night with one line "I'll put my country before my party everytime, whatever the cost." That is a man who deserves to be President. Other men who puts his own ambitions first, and will pay any price to achieve them, deserves only our scorn.

Mitt Romney will not be able to outspend the Democrats nominee 2,3, or 4 to 1 in November, the way he has outspent his Republican rivals.

Eric   January 26th, 2008 9:50 pm ET

I am surprised that anyone would endorse McCain after his flagrant lies today.

Ryan, GA   January 26th, 2008 9:49 pm ET

How anybody can support McCain after he blatantly lied about Romney today, I just can't understand. I can't vote for a liar. McCain is on the outside of the Ryan Circle of Trust.

Ana   January 26th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

National Polls have not been reflective of the actual wins state by state. It has been a state by state race.

This whole Romney – McCain fight of words.. interesting note-

Surprise... when you have democrats on FOXNEWS defending McCain... Another surprise it was Hannity that came to Romney's defensive.

I thought McCain was enemy #1 of democrats. This kinda makes you wonder?

Also disappointed in McCain... taking a page out of Hillary's playbook.

WendiR8   January 26th, 2008 9:43 pm ET

It's sad that liberal "straight talking" McCain feels like he needs to resort to lies and pettiness now that he's losing momentum in Florida. It doesn't matter that Crist endorsed him....Crist is a known moderate Republican....Not what the GOP base is looking for. In fact, Romney will benefit from McCain's angry tactics because the people of Florida are way to smart to not see through all of this. It's too bad that McCain is destroying his already tarnished reputation even more.

KC   January 26th, 2008 9:40 pm ET

The Florida primary is Republican-only. That's a roadblock for McCain. McCain won in NH and SC because of liberal independents.
Romney is winning the Republican base. If anyone undecided will listen with an open mind to Mitt speak, it will only take a few minutes to see that he is brilliant. Romney is a moderate conservative across the board. He is smart on the economy, opposes amnesty, is pro-family, and is intelligent enough to handle the war and not quickly leave after we have won.
Remember the war hero Bob Dole, Purple Heart WWII vet back in 1996?
The Dems and the media loved Dole in congress just like the dems like McCain in congress. However being liked by Kennedy and Feingold in congress and a war vet will not win against the Clintons or Obama/Oprah.

Janice   January 26th, 2008 9:38 pm ET

Anyone with any political savvy and experience knows that national polls are garbage. Just ask Giuliani who had a big lead in Florida last month. The polls are highly influenced by the spin of the day of the MSM. They're often far too small to be statistically significant.

Mitt Romney said that he does not owe anyone (lobbyist) any favors for giving him money. Mitt is a Washington outsider unlike McCain so think about who really wants McCain to go against the Clintons. The answer is the dems, the media and the lobbyist.

Pete   January 26th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

A gut call? How about a payback for McCain campaigning for Crist when he ran for Governor. Does anybody care when one politician endorses another? Heck, personally it makes me less likely to support the endorsed candidate!

Matt Davenport   January 26th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

pity

Karl, Garden Grove CA   January 26th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

McCain campaigned for Crist when he was elected governor. Now Crist endorses McCain. SHOCKER!!! Get real media: tell us the real reason why McCain gets endorsements.

Mike   January 26th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

McCain, Hillary and Obama are for amnesty for illegal aliens – MITT ROMNEY IS NOT

McCain, Hillary and Obama are AGAINST TAX CUTS – MITT ROMNEY IS NOT

McCain, Hillary and Obama are for LIBERAL JUDGES – MITT ROMNEY IS NOT

McCain, Hillary and Obama are WASHINGTON INSIDERS – MITT ROMNEY IS NOT

McCain, Hillary and Obama REPRESENTS THE POLITICS OF WASHINGTON – MITT ROMNEY DOES NOT

McCain, Hillary and Obama DO NOT REPRESENT CHANGE – MITT ROMNEY IS THE RIGHT CHANGE

VOTE FOR MITT ROMNEY THE RIGHT CHANGE

Evergreen State   January 26th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Of course he endorsed McCain. Crist supported the Kennedy/McCain/Martinez amnesty bill. Crist also supported driver’s licenses for illegal aliens. Another big boost for the Democrats' favorite Republican.

This will mark the end of Guiliani's chances.

squeakheart   January 26th, 2008 9:12 pm ET

I wholeheartedly agree with you, Ed.

Go Mitt Romney!

Brenda   January 26th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

It is pretty obvious that Crist's is intent helping his friend win in Florida. The fact that McCain really NEEDS this endorsement because he is in the fight of his life against Romney shows the desperation. I hear this today after hearing the outright distortment of words that McCain was telling today about Romney favoring a troop withdrawal from Iraq when what Mitt actually said was that he agreed with General Patreaus that this year we may be able to begin a more oversight role year. That is a testament to the fact that the surge is working and that the Iraqee military may be able to begin to stand on their own. If this was true why didn't he bring it up in Thursday's debate? I say it's because it's not true. Mitt won the debate Thursday, he is in a dead heat in Florida, and now McCain is scared.

I say McCain and Crist should be very very careful because Mitt has the support of many many Republicans and these kind of tactics are going to alienate us beyond repair. Mitt is the best candidate for Presidency and the rest are scared for their political lives.

Ed   January 26th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Disappointed in Crist, McCain is stooping to the Hillary ethics.

David.....Nevada   January 26th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

Jeb Bush's endorsement is meaningful... this one is half-hearted at best.
Besides, McAmnesty has no clue for economic revitalization and loses.
this vietnam vet is frankly not too worried about the war and frankly that's all
McAmnesty ever talks about. a one issue paranoid politican who's been
sneaking sylvesters HGH to stay awake.
Romney for reponsible economics and immigration

independent thinker   January 26th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Good for Gov. Charlie Crist!!

Tony   January 26th, 2008 8:54 pm ET

The Florida conservatives are certain to back McCain now that the GOP establishment see a true winner come November.

Jay   January 26th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

"It’s a gut call” I wonder what goes on in the world of politics. Is this a payback to a friend, considering that Mccain helped campaign for Crist in his run for governor? Is this what Mccain means when he has surrounded himself with many "friends in Washington"? I have had enough of the Washington fraternity order and I feel betrayed in Florida with this endorsement.

William   January 26th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

If McCain becomes President. Good News for South America. Latinos should endorse him enbloc. He was the co-sponsor of Amnesty and latinos should back him to the hilt.

Gabriel   January 26th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Who cares. I'm still voting for Romney.

Alan   January 26th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

To me endoresments does not make me want to go out and vote for someone, it just makes me not want to vote for that person. Endorsements does not influence my vote how they stand on the issues does.

Von   January 26th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

Illegal Aliens do the jobs Americans won't do. McCain had the nerve to challenge the American people that he would pay $50 an hour to anyone who would come to his ranch and work the fields the way the Illegal Aliens do.

Remember the phrase "JOBS AMERICANS WON'T DO?"

HE'S NOT TALKING ABOUT ILLEGALS BUTI BET HE STILL WANTS TO DO IT. IF HE IS ELECTED, HE WILL WORK WITH KENNEDY AND THE REST OF THE CROWD TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. REMEMBER LINDSEY GRAHAM ALSO SUPPORTED THE AMNESTY BILL, FOLKS.

CAN SOMEBODY PLEASE PUT McCAIN ON THE SPOT AND MAKE HIM TAKE A STAND ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION? THE AMERICAN PEOPLE DESERVE TO KNOW JUST WHERE THAT MAN STANDS.

Mark   January 26th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

I'm going to puke. Maybe the both should become Democrats.

tom   January 26th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

Smart endorsement by Gov. Crist, well earned by McCain.

We need a steady character and voice to lead our nation and sheperd our interests around the world.

McCain has proven time and again he is that steady character.

Darth Vadik, CA   January 26th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

According to the turnout today in South Carolina, McCain could walk on water and would still lose the election to any Democrat, so any endorsments are not a factor.

Andy   January 26th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

I wonder what McCain had to promise Crist to get his endorsement. His recent attacks on Romney show how desperate he was getting as his Florida poll numbers dropped. As you can see from his performance over the past few weeks, McCain is willing to do anything to win, including lying (so much for his "straight talk"), flip flopping (from immigration to taxes) and changing the subject (ask him any question and somehow he'll manage to tie it into the fact that he was a POW and that he supported the surge before the USA even invaded Iraq).

If McCain doesn't win Florida with all the help he's getting from the MSM, he is toast!

floridian   January 26th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Martinez and now Crist - I wonder what they have gotten from McCain for Florida. Or is it what the others were not willing to give up for these endorsements? I will not vote for either of these individuals in the next election in which they are candidates. We need to let the people decide the nominees and not those who will sway those who will look no further than the headlines in the newspapers or on the TV screen. In fact, I would like to see the media ask both Martinez and Crist specifically what it is that McCain offers. Crist's comments were very generic and, in my opinion, allude to something more than "he's the best one".

twister61   January 26th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

FLORIDA...YOU DESERVE A BETTER GOVERNOR THAN CHARLIE CRIST! HE JUST BECAME A TRAITOR LIKE HIS PARTNER McCAIN! YOU NOW KNOW YOUR GOVERNORS TRUE FEELINGS ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION.YOUR GOVERNOR IS FOR AMNESTY! SHAME ON CRIST!

Seam, Tampa, FL   January 26th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Crist is a bonehead. He has no clout.

Kyle   January 26th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

Right now this is a very tight race between Romney and McCain. This endorsement makes this a real toss up and should be quite exciting to watch. This may be a nail biter with either candidate winning within the margin of error.

Kyle

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