Former President Bush endorses Republican nominee-in-waiting
HOUSTON - John McCain got a nod of approval yesterday from a pillar of the Republican Party establishment when former president George H.W. Bush endorsed his campaign for president.
"No one is better prepared to lead our nation at these trying times than Senator John McCain," the former president said, standing with the Republican nominee-in-waiting in an airport hangar. "His character was forged in the crucible of war. His commitment to America is beyond any doubt. But
most importantly, he has the right values and experience to guide our nation forward at this historic moment."
McCain said he was deeply honored by Bush's support.
"I think that our effort to continue to unite the party will be enhanced dramatically by President Bush's words," he added.
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Huckabee told about 100 supporters who braved a snowstorm to hear him speak that a victory would send a message to those who have declared McCain the Republican nominee.
"Tomorrow, give the conservatives not only of Wisconsin but also of America a chance to be heard," he said, noting that "millions of your fellow Republicans" have not yet voted.
"If you're going to vote for me, I don't care if it snows another three feet, please go vote," he said.
"If you're not going to vote for me, please stay home," he added, drawing laughter.
Weather may keep some people home. The primary day forecast called for bitterly cold temperatures in the single digits and wind chills below zero across the state, but no snowstorms. Turnout is predicted to be 35 percent.
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"If there was ever a need for real change, and if there ever was a candidate to inspire us and make that happen, it's now," said Ben Cohen.
Added Jerry Greenfield: "Barack is showing that when you lead with your values and follow what you have inside that good things will happen."
Echoing Obama, Greenfield said he and Cohen succeeded when they opened their ice cream shop 30 years ago in Burlington by doing things differently, instead of copying the "tired ways" of doing business.
"What we saw is that when you want real change it's not a marketing slogan. You have to do things differently. And that is not going to be done by someone who's been involved in the system for years and years," Greenfield said, echoing Obama's criticisms of his rival, Hillary Clinton. Rob Hill, director of the Vermonters for Obama campaign, said he looked forward to getting behind the wheel of one of the ObamaMobiles - retrofitted Honda Elements.
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The pamphlet repackages ideas Clinton has already proposed, such as putting a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of subprime mortgages, removing tax breaks for oil companies, and investing in clean energy programs.
REUTERS 