The McCain campaign released their list of Catholic supporters. More than 100 strong. It's being called The National Catholics for McCain Committee. Senator Sam Brownback and Former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating are the co-chairs.
More from the release below:
"John McCain has a common sense vision for America based on faith, freedom, and families," said Senator Sam Brownback , National Co-Chair of the National Catholics for McCain Committee.
"Committed to the protection of innocent human life, he is a leader Catholics will be proud to support. John McCain knows from experience what it means when a society tramples on the truth of the value of the human person. He is committed to defending the dignity and value of every person, regardless of their status."
John McCain expressed his deep appreciation and stated, "I want to thank Catholic voters today, who have played a vital role in electing me as the Republican nominee for the presidency. I am humbled by the support of such a diverse group of Catholic leaders who are dedicated to the defense of traditional marriage, advocate for the protection of innocent human life, and share my vision for a stronger, safer and more prosperous America. I stand firmly with those Catholics who believe that human rights are natural rights for all people, in all places, and in all stages of life."
The National Catholics for McCain Committee is actively recruiting Catholics at the national, regional, state, local, and parish levels to help share John McCain's vision and pro-Catholic message.
Clearly the timing here is important after the recent anti-Catholic flap regarding Pastor John Hagee's endorsement. Yes, John McCain is going to need Catholics in the General Election. He's also going to need conservative Evangelicals.
Let The Brody File state it here first. The McCain camp WILL have some work to do to make sure Evangelicals turn out for McCain. This is not automatic. To think that Evangelicals will naturally show up at the polls and pull the lever for McCain is a DANGEROUS assumption, especially if the nominee is Barack Obama who will make a play for Evangelicals.
Here's another question to ponder: How much time will McCain devote to the issues of life, marriage and judges? These are the issues that get many of those true blue social conservatives off their couch and to the polls. For John McCain to deliver simple lip service on these issues will be a MAJOR gamble.
Will he delve into real meaty, policy addresses. Not a few lines in a speech. It could mean the difference between inspired voters or couch potatoes.
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