On the Republican side, President Bush met with John McCain Wednesday and officially endorsed the Arizona senator for president.

President Bush: “It has been my honor to welcome my friend John McCain as the nominee of the Republican Party. A while back, I don’t think many people would have thought that John McCain would be here as the nominee of the Republican Party, except he knew he’d be here, and so did his wife Cindy. John showed incredible courage, strength of character and perseverance in order to get to this moment. And that’s exactly what we need in a president.”

John McCain said he appreciated having the backing of President Bush.

Sen. John McCain: “I’m very honored and humbled to have the opportunity to receive the endorsement of the President of the United States, a man who I have great admiration, respect and affection. He and I, as is well known, had a very good competition in the year 2000, and I was privileged and proud to have the opportunity to campaign for his election and reelection to the presidency of the United States. I appreciate his endorsement. I appreciate his service to our country.”