April 1, 2008
Posted: 07:30 AM ET

(CNN) – John McCain has effectively captured the Republican nomination, but he’s still struggling to win over a key constituency of one: Focus on the Family founder James Dobson, who once said he would not vote for the Arizona senator “under any circumstances.”

Some disappointed conservatives had threatened to stay home on Election Day – but Dobson’s interview Monday may send a message to millions of evangelicals that they should reconsider that decision and head to the polls.

In an interview last night, the evangelical leader told FOX host Sean Hannity that while he has issues with all the candidates left in the race, particularly the Democrats, he would definitely be casting his ballot this fall.

"Let me just say that I will certainly vote,” said Dobson. “I think we have a God-given responsibility to vote, and there are all of the candidates and the issues down the ballot that we have an obligation to weigh in on and let our voices be heard."

But he stopped short of embracing McCain’s presidential bid, and expressed skepticism about his orthodoxy on key conservative stands, asking Hannity skeptically if the senator had given a commitment on stem cell research.

Earlier in the race, Dobson backed McCain’s Republican rival, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee.

–CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: James Dobson • John McCain


S, Miami, FL   April 1st, 2008 12:23 pm ET

And after all this, Focus on the Family still maintains tax-exempt status??

Ric   April 1st, 2008 12:18 pm ET

We have issues about all the candidates. There is only one safe choice. –> Democrats for Mc Cain '08!!

CHERYL   April 1st, 2008 11:58 am ET

BOTTOM LINE IS WHO CAN YOU TRUST???

WHO IS ELECTABLE???

SENATOR CLINTON!!!!!!!!

Lonnie   April 1st, 2008 11:25 am ET

That's right Chris…….a GOD given right !!!

I am REAL sure that without GOD we wouldn't have a Constitution for you to be so boastful about. But I must agree with your comment about voting……true Americans vote.
The problem with this country today is that they (collectively) have turned their back on the GOD of the Bible and we surely will reap what we sow.

Chris from San Antonio   April 1st, 2008 10:32 am ET

God-given right?

I am pretty sure it was the Constitution what gave us that right. But he is right in one respect, get out there and vote, no matter who's button you push.

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