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John McCain (AZ) U.S. Senator John McCain became an early contender
by forming his exploratory committee in January 1999. However, McCain had
limited name id and needed an issue or idea that could provide some momentum
for a national campaign.
McCain began 1999 addressing two such issues: positive campaigning in
the Republican primary and a strong, open foreign policy that provides
American leadership abroad. McCain doesn't shy away from championing issues
that are getting little attention and he has spoken out in the U.S. Senate
on topics ranging from national defense to Native American rights.
McCain made headlines during the NATO military action in Yugoslavia. By
speaking out earlier and more forcefully than his GOP rivals, McCain demonstrated
both his ability to address issues and to generate media coverage. It's
worth noting that McCain was one of the most-interviewed members in the
Senate gallery in 1998 and he is no stranger to the national media.
A new book and campaigning by his wife Cindy have also helped McCain gain
ground in both name id and fundraising. His experience as a former prisoner
of war in Vietnam has also helped McCain develop an image as an American
war hero who served his county well... something that has been lacking
in the White House of late.
By deciding to skip the Iowa caucuses and focus on New Hampshire, McCain
was able to pull out a big win in the Granite State. Positioning himself
as an independent willing to buck the establishment, McCain hopes his win
provides enough momentum to continue through other early primary states
like South Carolina, Michigan and Arizona.
To date, that plan has worked well and McCain has generated a groundswell
of support that is challenging George W. Bush's position. McCain used the
Internet to raise millions of dollars following his win in New Hampshire
and his campaign seems to be following a Jesse Ventura style of "independent
+ internet = executive office" campaigning. By attracting the support
of many independents and some Democrats, McCain hopes to surpass the advantage
that Bush has established among Republicans.
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