Pocono News Section

McCain Says Keystone State is Key to Election

McCain Says Keystone State is Key to Election - Monday, September 22, 2008 at 5:49PM EST

Reported by: Andy Mehalshick
Monday, Sep 22, 2008 @ 05:49pm EST
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY- Northeastern Pennsylvania took center stage in the battle for the White House. Republican John McCain says the Keystone State could be the key to unlocking the door at the White House.

A large crowd welcomed McCain to Scranton. Every seat at the Scranton Cultural Center was taken, and many more stood in the aisles. John McCain says he is counting on Pennsylvanians to help him win the White House.

McCain campaigned in an area known to be a democratic stronghold. This is Hillary Clinton country. Joe Biden was born in Scranton, but McCain insists Scranton and America needs a real leader, not fancy speeches.

He promised to fix the economy and straighten out Wall Street. "What we need in any reform is accountability on Wall Street and in government. And we need a commitment to protect people's homes, life savings and to restore our financial markets. Times are tough for our economy. I expect more tough economic times before the election," said McCain.

McCain insists he, unlike Barack Obama, can reach across party lines and solve this situation as well as other problems. "Let me just say we have to bring back prosperity and jobs. I know how to reform, bring back prosperity and jobs. I know how to reach across the aisle to do that from strong leadership in this country. I'm ready to provide it," he said.

He also promised true immigration reform and called for votes from all Americans. "So I want your vote. I need you to get out and vote for me. I need Irish Americans, Italian Americans," McCain said.

Many here said they would support McCain no matter what, but his choice of Sarah Palin as Vice-President was golden. Helen Kapp of Clarks Summit said, "There are a million women in the United States like Sarah Palin, you guys just don't know it yet! She's wonderful and liked a lot here in Scranton."

Rick Morelli of Hazleton added, "Yeah, I think he can win Pennsylvania. Obviously a key factor is Sarah Palin. A lot of people I notice, Democrats, they vote for Hillary Clinton. They switched to John McCain's side."

McCain was also asked about the increasing scrutiny of Palin. He said Palin can handle the pressure and as Americans gets to know her, they will respect her even more.

And McCain had some heavy hitters on stage with him to rally the G. O.P. faithful. Longtime Democrat and now Independent Senator Joe Lieberman and Republican Lindsay Graham of South Carolina were both at the Cultural Center with McCain.