By Scott Ehrmann

John McCain stands as a clear frontrunner in this year’s election. Unlike other candidates, McCain does not sacrifice his views on national issues to fit in with his party; he is infamous among Conservatives for not being a stereotypical Republican. Boasting over 30 years of legislative experience, McCain thoroughly understands the United States political system. He is an honest leader who values America’s best interest above all else.
With regards to political issues, McCain’s stances are the most practical and reasonable in this election. John McCain knows what disastrous results a quick exit strategy, as Clinton and Obama support, would yield. Without the protection of U.S. troops, the terrorist insurgents would violently seize control of Iraq, swiftly undoing the tremendous efforts put forth by our military to create a stable democratic nation.
Until the justice system is bolstered, as McCain promises, the United States cannot afford to withdraw its troops and surrender the war in Iraq. As Commander in Chief, John McCain will lead our military to victory in the Middle-East.
McCain does not simply resort to being a stereotypical Republican. He supports embryonic stem cell research to advance the practice of medicine. He does not support a constitutional ban of same-sex marriage; rather he thinks that individual states ought to decide the issue. In 2004, he was even asked by John Kerry to be his presidential running mate, though he declined, the gesture shows his progressive nature. McCain’s refusal to adhere to a strict two party system with polarized opinions makes him a respectable, pragmatic, and effective candidate.
McCain has significant experience working in the United States government, as director of the Navy Senate Liason Office and a member of Congress since 1986. He also was a leader in the U.S Air Force, where he fought in Vietnam, and endured five years as a prisoner of war. He will be immediately effective upon entering office. One of Obama’s major shortcomings is that he is very young, and lacks a solid period as a U.S. legislator; he has only been involved in the Senate since 1997. Leading a country is not an easy job. It demands experience. With America’s economic and international status being so questionable these days, our next president needs to take charge right from the start. John McCain is the candidate that will be able to start helping our country from the day he is sworn in.
In sum, McCain is the best presidential candidate because of his prudent political views, vast wealth of experience, and moral integrity.