McCain stresses independence in Sparks visit

By David McGrath Schwartz

Tuesday, July 29, 2008 | 11:34 a.m.

Sen. John McCain took the stage shortly after 10 a.m. at Reed High School in Sparks and took questions for an hour.

He opened by thanking "Governor" Brian Krolicki (who is actually the lieutenant governor, but he probably doesn't mind the slip).

"I love this state. As you know, we in Arizona are very angry that you've stolen our water ... but I'm very grateful to visit a western state." He said he "understands the issues," such as growth, water and public lands.

McCain stressed his independence. "I spoke up against the administration" on strategy in Iraq. "I spoke up against my party for out-of-control spending," he said.

He took questions from the audience, walking the stage seemingly at ease. He hit Sen. Barack Obama on taxes and opposition to offshore drilling.

McCain also pointed out his stance on securing the borders with Mexico, and having a temporary worker program.

He said, "I think we have to assume I'm the underdog in this race. And we have to get out the vote in Nevada." He added, "I'm pleased with where we are in the polls."

A man who said he's a conservative Douglas County voter asked McCain why he should be excited about McCain's candidacy, given the candidate's opposition to some conservative issues.

"I'm not very excited about this election," the man said. "I think I speak for many conservatives when I say I'm voting against Obama more than anything else."

McCain stated his positions on issues such as pushing through conservative judges, then defended his position on global warming and highlighted his stance on controlled spending.

"I am a conservative," he said.