Romney endorses McCain for fifth term
Former Governor Mitt Romney this morning endorsed his former political rival -- US Senator John McCain – as the Arizona Republican tries to fend off a primary challenge and win a fifth term.
Romney and McCain vied for the 2008 Republican presidential nomination, exchanging several bitter barbs in debates. McCain is facing a primary challenge from former US Representative J.D. Hayworth, who says McCain has betrayed conservative values.
“For years, I've been an admirer of John McCain,” Romney said in a statement this morning. “Then we became competitors. Today, I'm proud to call him my friend.”
Romney also said, “It's hard to imagine the United States Senate without John McCain,” and added that the country needed McCain in troubling times.
“I am constantly reassured by Senator McCain's continued involvement in the affairs of our nation, and I am honored to support him,” Romney said.
“Governor Romney is among the brightest and most dynamic leaders in our Party, and I am proud to have his support,” McCain said. “I look forward to working with him to advance our shared vision for a stronger, safer and more prosperous America.”
Another Massachusetts Republican -- US Senator Scott Brown – has also endorsed McCain, and is planning to campaign with him next month in Arizona.
Matt Viser can be reached at maviser@globe.com.
About Political Intelligence
Glen Johnson is Politics Editor at boston.com and lead blogger for "Political Intelligence." He moved to Massachusetts in the fourth grade, and has covered local, state, and national politics for over 25 years. E-mail him at johnson@globe.com. Follow him on Twitter @globeglen. |
