McCain's New Hampshire Victory Stuns Senate Republicans

Senator John McCain's decisive win in the New Hampshire primary has taken Senate Republicans by surprise, but rather than abandoning their candidate, George W. Bush, they believe it will ultimately boost his chances. Many Republicans see McCain's message as a potentially winning formula, particularly among independents. The victory has also brought renewed attention to McCain's campaign finance reform efforts, which have been a source of tension with his party colleagues.

Key Takeaways:

• McCain's margin of victory over Bush was notable, sparking surprise among Senate Republicans.
• Many Republicans, including Senator Trent Lott, believe the loss will re-energize Bush's campaign and help him in the long run.
• McCain's message, which focuses on reforming a corrupt system and differs significantly from President Clinton's, has resonated with independents.
• Senators Mitch McConnell and Robert F. Bennett acknowledge McCain's campaign as a possible winner, despite their support for Bush.
• McCain's supporters in the Senate, including Senators Hagel, DeWine, Kyl, and Thompson, believe that McCain's focus on the people, rather than party leaders, is key to his message.
• McCain's chief foes in the Senate, including McConnell, see the New Hampshire results as potential indicators of a broader trend.

Statistics:

• McCain won the New Hampshire primary by a notable margin.
• 35 senators and 30 governors will not determine the next president or the Republican nominee, as Senator Hagel pointed out.
• 4 out of 100 senators have endorsed McCain's campaign.

Sources:

• The New York Times, January 2000
• "Senator McCain's New Hampshire Victory Stuns Senate Republicans" by an uncredited author, The New York Times, January 2000.