In a speech to the LA World Affairs Council, McCain stressed that we are facing “the transcendent challenge of our time: the threat of radical Islamic terrorism,” and to win this battle, we must join forces with our allies across the Atlantic. He added that “if we lead by shouldering our international responsibilities and pointing the way to a better and safer future for humanity…” He continued by explaining that military force was not the sole way to fight this plague but try to acquire moderate Muslims trust and help in fighting a common cause. He distanced himself from President Bush by mentioning that American power “does not mean we can do whatever we want, whenever we want,” subtly alluding to Bush’s cowboy action policy. In an allusion to both Democratic candidates, he concluded that “any president who does not regard this threat as transcending all others does not deserve to sit in the White House.”

By Maeve Reston and Paul Richter (L.A. Times - 3/27/08)
and by Liz Sidoti (A.P. L.A. AJC 3/27/08)
Abstract by Johana Nadler

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In a show of GOP solidarity, Romney is helping McCain in his western fundraising campaign, especially in Utah and Colorado, which carry a large numbers of Mormons. Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman, potential Vice Presidential pick, joined them along with Meg Whitman, former CEO of eBay Inc.. Romney gave some hints of his willingness to accept the V.P ticket, though it might not seem probable since some believe he might be thinking of the 2012 Presidential campaign for a rerun. One thing is sure, Romney shows commendable character and loyalty to the GOP by joining McCain to help garner much needed funds.

By A.P. 3/27/08
Abstract by Johana Nadler
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Obama accuses McCain of sitting back and waiting to see what’s happening with the housing crisis. “In his entire speech yesterday, he offered not one policy, not one idea, not one bit of relief to the nearly 35,000 North Carolinians who are forced to foreclose on their dreams in the last three months,” said Obama. McCain responded that he does want to do more for homeowners but not by increasing taxes as Obama plans to do. McCain also added that it is not the government responsibility to keep bailing out irresponsible lenders.

Later on, Obama said in response to all the brouhaha made about Rev. Wright’s incendiary comments : “We can’t afford to be distracted … every time somebody somewhere says something stupid that everybody gets up in arms and we forget about the war in Iraq and we forget about the economy.”

He concluded by stating his agreement to have a presidential primary among the 800 delegates in order to pick the Democratic nominee before the national convention.

By Devlin Barrett and Liz Sidoti (A.P.in Los Angeles)
Abstract by Johana Nadler

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