March 4, 2008
Posted: 10:41 PM ET

(CNN) — John McCain clinched the Republican nomination tonight with big wins in Texas and Ohio.

But looking at the exit polls out of Texas — a state McCain must carry in the general election to win the presidency — trouble remains for the Arizona senator.

Despite the fact McCain is certain to carry his party's banner in the general election, he only narrowly carried Texas conservatives over Huckabee (48-40 percent). They made up more than two-thirds of all Texas Republican voters, and it is imperative they show up to vote for McCain in November. Also, McCain only managed to tie Huckabee among late deciders, another indication many Republicans aren't ready to rally behind McCain.

Another troubling statistic: More Texas Republican voters said they were looking for a candidate that shares their values over any other quality — and those voters picked Huckabee by 25 points over McCain (57-32 percent).

Translation: McCain captured his party's nomination tonight, but he still has a lot of work ahead of him to convince the base he's their guy.

Related: Watch McCain speak to supporters about being the Republican nominee

–CNN's Senior Political Analyst Bill Schneider

Filed under: John McCain


Jen   March 4th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

Sorry, McCain, but I used to vote Republican and this year I'll be voting for Barack Obama. I am ready for change!!!

Darth Vadik, CA   March 4th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

Just looking at the turnout numbers, McCain is in big trouble.

California Independent   March 4th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

CNN story line….

Dems can vote for whomever they are stuck with.
Reps can't get voters to stick to whomever.

If it isn't Clinton, McCain '08

Tired of CNN   March 4th, 2008 10:47 pm ET

This is ridiculous. CNN, at least try to disguise your bias.

Karen   March 4th, 2008 10:47 pm ET

CNN always has and always will HEART Obama.

DR   March 4th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Schneider's a dork. McCain won't run against Huckabee in the general…he'll run against liberals…conservatives and mods don't vote for liberals.

C. Mason   March 4th, 2008 10:50 pm ET

Who really cares whether Conservatives rally behind McCain or not. Their brand of rhetoric and ignorance/belief in the face of truth and facts has doomed them. The earth really is round, global warming does exist, and the earth is really billions of years old. Deal with it.

vl   March 4th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

If I was McCain, I wouldn't worry too much. All those who are republican and voted for Obama today will be back in Nov.

Nancy   March 4th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

When will the votes in the Texas caucus be counted? We all completed paperwork voting for our candidate but left there very confused. No one really knew what was going on.

Marca   March 4th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

So, Obama wanted Hilary Clinton to stop campaigning if she lost Texas and Ohio.

Mr. Obama you should stop campaigning if you lose those states!

John Bolton   March 4th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

Funny, your headline on your main page said this article was about bad news for CLINTON, but the article is actually about bad news for MCCAIN. Didn't Anderson Cooper spend a half hour talking about just these kind of mistakes last night?

ToddT   March 4th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

The only way the GOP will become unified is if they all join the Democratic party this year. Congratulations Senator McCain, but you may as well keep barbecueing, because the Republicans will not have a prayer, despite the religion, in the General Election. Hopefully, you will have the opportunity to have sensible, mature, substanstive debates on the issues with Senator Clinton.

A McCain vs. Clinton race for the Presidency will lead to a respectful and enjoyable campaign season where ultimately the United Staes will join together on a bipartisan basis to solve our nations problems. To me a Clinton/McCain ticket would be perfect for getting our country to join with bipartisan congressional support to solve the major issues of our precious nation. Talk about a dream ticket.

McCain would need Hillary win Ohio in the general election; one the most important states in the nation. Thanks OHIO. You are the Best.

roy   March 4th, 2008 10:57 pm ET

Have you even been to Texas? Between Hilary, Obama and McCain, believe me he's their guy…

Bill   March 4th, 2008 10:58 pm ET

Do you think conservatives will vote for McCain, Obama or Clinton. They will rally to the Republican candidate. McCain speaks his mind and acts on his beliefs, even if they stray from the party line. He is not so far from the conservative ideals that the conservatives will vote Democrat.

JC   March 4th, 2008 10:59 pm ET

Obama hasn't won, yet so Obama supporters go find a Hillary article to annoy people on.

hillary 08:   March 4th, 2008 11:01 pm ET

HILLARY WINS OHIO!!!!!!!!!

Bob G.   March 4th, 2008 11:01 pm ET

Sp you think all these Texas Conservatives are going to vote with the MOST liberal person in the US Senate?

jmac   March 4th, 2008 11:01 pm ET

the numbers won't matter. one things republicans do much better than the democrats is fall in line. and trust me, they will

Kev   March 4th, 2008 11:02 pm ET

He may not have to…

I was independent until registering Democratic this year. If Clinton is the nominee, there is a better than average chance I'll vote for him. I support Obama because I think the most important thing is to change *how* government is run. If Clinton's slander wins the day, McCain is the next best to achieve this goal.

heh   March 4th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

Really nothing is bad news for McCain, seeing as no one really values the conservatives as they are today. Funny how one of the more popular conservative radio show hosts when giving a speach to support McCain, used more dirty politics then McCain himself was using, and then after being shown that his comments were bad by McCain himself, he then, out of nothing but spite and the purest of ignorance, switches his vote and support to hillary clinton.

Conservatives, is this who you want representing you?

If not Obama '08 then Hilary '08 (I'm a true democrat)

Puddytat   March 4th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

I don't think he's got any more work to do . He can go home and bbq some more pig parts with his obnoxious rich friends till Nov. He wasn't elected .

Amazing   March 4th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

I think John McCain will be just fine, he seemed pretty fired up earlier. It's going to be a good year!

Ann, MI   March 4th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

It's ironic that the man the Rove Republicans set out to slander and defame in order to win the nomination eight years ago is their nominee. I am a Democrat, but I prefer him to Senator Clinton and her decision to do the same to Senator Obama. I guess it shows that a woman can be just as mean in politics as a man.

dani   March 4th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Tell McCain not to worry because some of Hillary's supporters would rather vote for McCain than Obama. We are not THAT liberal and stupid!

charlieboy   March 4th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Look at the popular votes for Clinton and Obama; count 'em and then look at the nuber of votes cast for McCain. Spells doom for the Repubic Party, no?

plantg   March 4th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Darth: Turnout does not matter, the republican race had been decided for long. Or you wanna suggest that the Dem candidate will carry Texas by 65%?
Mobilization is important, McCain needs to mobilize the evangelicals in November. For this reason Clinton would be a horrible idea. Someone strong in Ohio or Florida shd be chosen, because the south shd be taken for granted. If the south falls for McCain, then it's over anyway.

Franky   March 4th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

I like you Senator, you're cool! I got your back too, I don't think you're dumb also. PLus, you party before! That's an A+ baby….

Wellwisher   March 4th, 2008 11:11 pm ET

DR, you said it! I can't believe CNN publishes Schneider's rubbish. Blinded by the Obama light I guess?

bill from NC   March 4th, 2008 11:12 pm ET

Don't worry McCain!

If Hillary gets the nod from the Democrats, there will be plenty of Democrats and Independents headed his way, including me.

I am a strong supporter of Obama, but in no way will I ever vote for Hillary again (I voted for her in NY) after she has proudly displayed her complete absence of integrity.

Gwen Acquaye   March 4th, 2008 11:13 pm ET

Ii voted in TEXAS and participated (tried to) in the caucus. The amount of blantant fraud that was being perpetrated at the polling places is unREAL!. People are being turned away, lied to and misguided. Politics in TEXAS are as FRADULENT as EVER. I WAS a HILLARY Supporter until I witnessed the acts that people are going through to put her on the ballot. This reminded me that it was HILLARY that was the 'brains behind the CLINTON comeback kid matra". If you are truly interested in new reporting you could report on the fraud that was perpetrated in South Dallas county and keep your new organization busy into the next presidential election serious (2012).
I now understand the determination of my forefathers when they stood up for their rights. I will NEVER miss another election and I vow to get involved in the campaign of whom ever else I decide to support.
GJ

Republican   March 4th, 2008 11:16 pm ET

I have always voted Republican, however in this election I won't because McCain is not a conservative. He said it best, "I am a conservative, liberal republican!!!" Never going to win and I am ok with that

Tim   March 4th, 2008 11:16 pm ET

McCain will beat these two scrubs for the Democrats. There's not just buyers remorse for Obama, but for Clinton as well. The Dems blew it and McCain will be the next president because of it.

Dave   March 4th, 2008 11:17 pm ET

No trouble for McCain at all. Tune in in November to watch the Democrats once again snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

New York expat in Santo Domingo   March 4th, 2008 11:20 pm ET

There is no unified Republican Party. There are the ideological evangelicals; there are the 'keep America strong' through military strength at all costs faction; there are the financial elites who laugh privately at their own windfall of tax cuts and invisible hand theory advocates; there are the fiscal conservatives who are in identity crisis still since Democrats are more fiscally responsible; there are the Gingrich/Limbaugh/pro-militia folks who want to destroy federal government at any costs (with no clue how to govern in the absence of government); there are the xenophobes who think they are the first Americans; and, there are the poor folks who watch some TV pundits for all their information as if they were gods… Such a bunch. I love my America, worts and all…

california independent   March 4th, 2008 11:21 pm ET

same thing again, lesser of the two evils

Jose Card - Independent   March 4th, 2008 11:23 pm ET

Perhaps those that would have voted for McCain voted Democrat for Obama.

Kenny on Long Island   March 4th, 2008 11:24 pm ET

I am not sure which world does this writer live? McCain has no need to worry about conservative vote in general election, there is no chance that they can tolerant either Hillary or Obama.

Will E.   March 4th, 2008 11:24 pm ET

C. Mason, I must concur. I like watching the conservatives fight it out amongst themselves who is the most truly ignorant. Too bad McCain, otherwise not a bad guy, suddenly finds himself in bed with these Middles Ages loonies.

Matt   March 4th, 2008 11:27 pm ET

McCain is too old. I'm almost 30… I've never met a 70+ year old that had any clue what issues are relevant to my generation. Under 35 will stray away from him for someone that remotely relates to them.

Mike   March 4th, 2008 11:28 pm ET

Not all conservatives are religous. Many, if not most of us believe in the ideas of individual liberty and self determination enshrined in our Constitiution. Factories and jobs are leaving Ohio and Michigan for Texas and Alabama because of high taxes, regulation, and unions. Both of those Northern states are Democrat strongholds and Obama and Hillary want to impose their failed policies on all of us and call it change. I think most conservatives, economic and religious, will support McCain over either of those two. McCain is least worst for the country.

Conservative   March 4th, 2008 11:30 pm ET

Looks like Ron Paul is in perfect position now with Huck out.

LT   March 4th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

Whaaa…. huh?

Why would McCain have to convince his base that he's their guy? Who else will the conservatives vote for? Obama? No…. Clinton? NO!!

This is a non-story. The US elections are all about the middle of the road. McCain is a strong candidate. When debate time comes, this will be apparent.

Does obama or clinton know how our military is structured and what the responsibilities of the CINC? Think about it, would you hire an electrician who knows nothing about electricity or wiring fundamentals? In a time of war, we need someone who will make rational, informed, decisions about military strategy…. given the CURRENT situation.

Rash, uninformed, ill-advised decisions will get a LOT of people killed.

Anonymous   March 4th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

"So, Obama wanted Hilary Clinton to stop campaigning if she lost Texas and Ohio.

Mr. Obama you should stop campaigning if you lose those states!"

Hmm, no, I disagree. It would be virtually impossible for Clinton to get more pledged delegates. Obama, on the other hand, will almost certainly win.

That's the difference.

VOTE FOR GOODNESS AND HONESTY   March 4th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

TWO losers won tonight.

OBAMA 2008-Let us win the nomination!!!!Great chance we have!!!!!

Dave   March 4th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

I wont vote for Hillary or Macain, hasnt Bush done enough, hasnt Bill done enough. Im a democrat who lost and I guess will continue to lose. RE. Private David Joseph Brangman

sim   March 4th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

well im a democrat and i must say im VERY disappointed in my party right now…There's no way Hillary will get so nom so why not get behind the front runner(Obama) so we can shift our focus on the general elections??????Atleast the republicans are smart enuff to get behind their front runner regardless if they like him or not!

Mamn   March 4th, 2008 11:37 pm ET

It is sad to see that McCain abandoned his policy to join with Bush and Karl Rove to advance his lust for presidency. It is also irony to see that our country is heading to recession and McCain and Republican Party is far from realization about the facts that we need to put more of our debates and attention to our state of the economy instead of preemptive plan for wars to come.
We are spending 12 billions dollar a month to Iraq war to settle the civil war there and our country people are facing enormous pressure from health care, housing, living and energy cost. McCain does not care enough to talk about economy nor does he care to offer health care solution. He can enjoy federal health care but he does not want to share that with American people.
McCain is same like Bush and McCain presidency will be the third term of Bush doctrine.
Obama is the answer of Hope and Change and a new direction for our country.

JohnQPublic   March 4th, 2008 11:37 pm ET

Mr. Schneider is right. A substantial number of conservatives will not vote for Mr. McCain. Many have told me they will stay home or write in Mr. Huckabee's name.

Others plan to vote for the Democratic candidate. And those holding their nose and voting for McCain will not be energized as would be necessary for McCain to win.

It would appear that the current phrase, "get a clue" would be an appropiate one for Mr. McCain and his supporters.

rowland   March 4th, 2008 11:38 pm ET

This is the stupidest story I've seen. He's the Republican nominee…who the heck are the ultra conservatives going to vote for if not for McCain? He doesn't have to convince anyone anything…are they really going to vote for Hillary or Barack over him? The answer coming up after the break…….
Welcome back! The answer to the question is NO ABSOLUTELY NOT

rdepontb, bel air md   March 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Did Governor Huckabee hurt himself, or the Repulican Party, by staying int he ract until tonight? No. In fact, his staying in would have allowed the Party to garner more on the Democrats, more ammunition for their ads, polling strategy, and talking points. Why not let the Dems go after each other another month or two?

James p   March 4th, 2008 11:42 pm ET

You are all very wrong, If Hillary looses Latinos, womens and secured Democaratic men, Asians will be voting for McCain, but watch out if Hillary should win…..Goodbye McCain!!!

The republicans have been saying yes they want to trun against Hillary..Do you honestly think the Republicans are being honest in saying" yes we would prefer Hillary..easy win" Please! hello! Give us a break! Shaking in thier boots they are! because it just might happen!

Thanks Ohio and in a few Thanks Texas!

Gene   March 4th, 2008 11:46 pm ET

All i can say is. OBAMA! Why would we want Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton? Our oils will go up further, and we will still be in love with bin ladin. Cant you see they all have ties together? Bring in Obama. And who cares about his last and middle name. That means crap. Republican John M……he always sounds like he is reading from a darn book. I want someone who talks normal for once. Unlike Bush's, Clinton's, and John M.

Bruce   March 4th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

OK. If you vote for a party vice a candidate..keep going because you are not concerned with the issues anyway. If you believe that Obama or Clinton will change anything - keep going because you haven't even considered what they promised us before.

Obama and Clinton and the other DNC politicians promised everyone changes during the last election and the Democratic Party was given control of both houses of Congress. Hmmmm.. has everyone forgotten the first 100 days promises? I don't see how you can really expect change from either since their recent track record proves that they both forget about these promises once the election is over.

It is certain that neither feels obligated to us once the elections are in. It is also certain that a Democratic House, Senate, and Whitehouse will result in little discussion on the merits of an issue and a lot of increased government spending as the pork barrel continues. Elect them and be ready break out your checkbook to pay the taxes.

So John McCain will get my vote. If you are not a DNC cheerleader, you might want to consider him as well.

Hillary For Ohio NOT Obama!   March 4th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

Obama your ALL Talk and No Action!!!!!

Hillary was the Big Winner Tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

John   March 4th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

It is nice that such a good person as is John McCain can win, but his chances of winning the presidency are very slim due to his age. Father time shows no mercy to anybody. I wish he would step down, but there is little hope of that.

Anona Mouse   March 4th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

The Honorable Senator McCain, is a Military Hero and Former POW is currently the ONLY Qualified candidate running for this nation's highest office.

Too bad the Right-winged Republicans are too dense and dim witted to realize this and support him.

Senator McCain has support from both sides of the Congressional Isle and can bring this country together!

Vote For John McCain :)

R.I.   March 4th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

McCain shouldn't worry too much because if the Dems are not careful, there will be a huge exodus to McCain. That is, if Bill and Hillary Clinton play their dirty game to get her nominated.

Teresa   March 4th, 2008 11:49 pm ET

Mccain has no problems, he is gonna get all Barak's supporters if Hillary wins.

AfricanAmericans for John Mccain

K. Farmer   March 4th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

I will only vote for McCain in the general election if he puts Ron Paul as vice president. Otherwise, I'd rather vote democrat.

Jeff R   March 4th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

As a Republican in Virginia, I voted for Obama, not because I want him as president, but to cast a vote against Hillary. The Republican nominee is already set, so why waste a vote on him. In Nov I will vote republican again. I figure this is why it appears so many Republicans are voting for Obama, they aren't trading sides, they're voting against Hillary. I believe this is happening all over America. I hope Obama isn't counting on all these Republican votes he's been receiving come November.

Tom C.   March 4th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

Remember all that vote Dem. These changes they keep talking about are going to hit you in the wallet. That is the only change they can promise you.

Ken Smith   March 4th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

You ever notice how most liberals that you see posting on the net are all college age children. Funny thing is that when they get away from daddy's visa and there ipods and xbox's and actually get jobs and get married and have children that they start to think about life more differently and become conservative? Isnt that interesting?

Whoever wrote this mccain article is a moron. The only problem Mccain has is the fact that millions of TV addicted zombies are eating up the whole media bias towards Obama. I have heard SO many people ramble on about how they want "change". I'm sorry folks but almost EVERY single candidate that has ever run for president has made that same claim. The only difference is that you believe it and quote it because its the line the media fed you! Obama will give you "change" and thats what you want isnt it? PLease!

Go back to sleep amerika.

Jed in Texas   March 4th, 2008 11:55 pm ET

Huck for Vice President and dont forget to sign up the kids for the big Draft day.

Mary - Independent   March 5th, 2008 12:04 am ET

McCain may respresent the Republican party, but he sure can't run the Country! Think about it - this man is elderly and he follows the Bush administration - so who really wants more of this?

thomas pridemore west lafayette indiana   March 5th, 2008 12:11 am ET

I am 43 years old and have always voted republican but tonight is the end of the road i will not support mccain i am ashamed of this man and his tired old ways. Yes i no my vote is not important, but when you add up my vote with everyone else who takes the same stand mccain does have trouble.

K Fergus   March 5th, 2008 2:05 am ET

McCain and Ron Paul - interesting ticket. They could really keep things rocking!! I bet McCain doesn't have the guts to pick Ron Paul!

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