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ZZUNUSED
Local supporters energized by McCain
Republican presidential nominee John McCain waves near the end of his acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn., on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2008.
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HUNTINGTON -- John McCain supporters were excited Thursday night as they gathered at the Republican headquarters on 4th Avenue to hear him accept his party's nomination to become the next president of the United States.
| More coverage, multimedia from the Republican National Convention. |
Many said they were feeling hopeful and energized as the campaign picked up steam. They were also pleased with McCain's vice president choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. Palin is the first female ticketmate in Republican history.
"I feel great," said Lisa Peana, 27, of Ceredo.
She said this year is the greatest year to be a Republican, considering the McCain/Palin ticket.
| Watch McCain's entire speech. |
McCain, a POW turned political rebel, vowed Thursday night to vanquish the "constant partisan rancor" plaguing the nation as he launched his fall campaign for the White House. "Change is coming" to Washington, he promised the Republican National Convention.
"I will reach out my hand to anyone to help me get this country moving again," McCain said. "I have that record and the scars to prove it. Senator Obama does not," he said of his rival for the White House, Democratic Sen. Barack Obama.
McCain, 72, is campaigning to become the oldest first-term president in history. He addressed the convention Thursday night saying he's a reformer who loves America.
"I fell in love with my country when I was a prisoner in someone else's. I loved it not just for the many comforts of life here. I loved it for its decency; for its faith in the wisdom, justice and goodness of its people. I loved it because it was not just a place, but an idea, a cause worth fighting for," he said.
Gregg Hendry, 46, of Barboursville said he was hopeful and looking forward to watching the election unfold.
"Now we can get down to the issues," he said.
Hendry, vice chairman of the Republican State Executive Committee of West Virginia, said love for the country is an "absolute requirement" of the presidency.
"The love for country is probably more important than working with both parties, because if you love your country you're going to be willing to make some compromises," he said.
Paula Stewart, 53, of Huntington was anxious to hear McCain's acceptance speech as she stood talking with other supporters late Thursday evening. Like others, she said she was especially excited after Palin's speech on Wednesday.
"I'm looking forward to the whole campaign season. This is kind of the kick off," she said.
Gayle Adkins, 68, of Huntington also said Palin made an outstanding speech Wednesday, and she looked forward to hearing McCain speak.
"I'm a lifetime Republican. I just like what McCain stands for and I'm very pleased with his running mate," she said.
Stewart said McCain's love of America is clear.
"You see his passion in wanting to push the country forward, wanting to support the troops," she said. "I think McCain will be good for West Virginia."
An estimated 40 to 50 McCain supporters were expected to attend the viewing on 4th Avenue Thursday night. Another convention watching party was scheduled to take place in South Point, Ohio.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
