McCain Praises Bush at Shadow Convention

July 31 -- Saying that “Republicans still offer the best hope for change,” Sen. John McCain withstood jeers and catcalls while making a plug for his former campaign rival, Texas Gov. George W. Bush, at an alternative “shadow convention” in Philadelphia.

Republican leaders had been dubious about McCain’s decision to address the event on Sunday. But the Arizona senator stood by his party, making the case for his former primary rival.

“We didn’t agree on every issue,” McCain said at the event, meant as a counterpoint to the GOP fanfare that kicks off in the city today. “But we do agree on many more issues than we disagree on.” McCain cited education, welfare, and military policy as issues where Bush had shown a commitment to reform.

McCain Releases Delegates

At a rally later in the afternoon, an emotional McCain formally released the roughly 400 delegates he had accumulated during the campaign.

“I’ll never be able to thank you all,” the Arizona senator said, before becoming too choked up to continue.

McCain tried to go on, but had to halt two or three times before finally finishing. The event ended with the same kind of confetti shower McCain used during the primaries.

Because McCain does not want his name placed in nomination, his delegates will be automatically released tomorrow afternoon, when Bush’s name is formally put forward.

Pitching BushMcCain kept his cool during his speech, however, endorsing Bush and carrying on despite interruptions.

“I think it’s quite clear he’s the candidate who offers change, and the vice president is the candidate of the status quo,” added McCain, contrasting Bush with Democratic contender Al Gore.

McCain’s pitch for Bush drew shouts from many in the crowd, and prolonged heckling from at least one member of the audience.

“I do not need to continue,” McCain said at one point.