CNN

Pres. Bush told the GOP convention that Sen. McCain was ready to lead the nation.

WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Bush told the Republican National Convention on Tuesday that presumptive nominee Sen. John McCain "ready to lead," saying he's been prepared for the presidency by a lifetime of service.

"We live in a dangerous world," Bush said, speaking live via video. "And we need a president who understands the lessons of September 11, 2001: that to protect America, we must stay on the offense, stop attacks before they happen and not wait to be hit again.

"The man we need is John McCain."

Bush was originally scheduled to speak on the opening night of the convention. But he was forced to cancel as Hurricane Gustav bore down on the Gulf Coast. He spent much of Monday visiting hurricane response centers in Texas.

He made the comments live via remote from the White House shortly before 10 p.m.

Full story