On principles, McCain

IN THE SPIRIT of the night's focus on the almighty: God bless John McCain.

The US senator from Arizona had the guts to stand up for some principles that connect with voters beyond the GOP's narrowest conservative base.

It was clear throughout last night's debate, especially when Representative Tom Tancredo of Colorado suggested it might be time to take a "timeout" and stop people from coming legally to America. McCain said, "It's beyond my realm of thinking." Then, he spoke about America as a beacon of hope, and quoted Ronald Reagan's description of "a shining city on a hill."

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani also said he was "very uncomfortable" with Tancredo's proposition and quoted Abraham Lincoln's criteria of what it takes to be an American: not whether you came over on the Mayflower, or yesterday, but "how much do you believe in freedom?"

But McCain gets extra points for courage in the line of fire. He defended the much-maligned immigration legislation that he backs along with President Bush and Senator Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts. And he did it with grace and passion.

He also showed humor when the subject turned to English as an official language. A questioner asked Mitt Romney to explain his tough talk against illegal immigration, in light of political ads the former Massachusetts governor is airing in Spanish. This presented another moment for Tancredo to pontificate on the need to preserve the English language. When it was McCain's turn, he couldn't resist quipping, "Muchas gracias."

McCain also showed strength and humanity when he answered a question from a woman whose brother died in Iraq: "This is long, hard, and tough. I think we can succeed and God bless you." It's not what the anti-war faction wants to hear, but it's vintage McCain.

He may not win the nomination. But lord, it's nice to hear a politician say what he believes, no matter the political consequences.

Joan Vennochi's e-mail address is vennochi@globe.com.