Written by John Sirjord

There is no learning curve in the Oval Office. In the past 10 years, international politics, global conflicts and economic uncertainty illustrate the vital and crucial importance of candidates’ experience and accomplishments.

I believe John McCain has the necessary qualifications to lead the United States of America. In Iraq especially, McCain stood up to his party, the world and common opinion with a bold, daring plan to bring down violence and restore stability to a war-torn nation. His call for a surge of troops was at great personal and political risk. However, because of his devotion to his country he persevered, and as a result, violence has decreased over 80 percent in the past two years in Iraq because of his actions. Even his opponent, Barack Obama has said, “[The surge] succeeded beyond our wildest dreams.”

McCain’s 20-year tenure has been wildly successful. He is more than a military maverick. McCain has enjoyed a long and celebrated tenure in Congress. He’s been leading sponsor, orchestrator and author of significant and substantial bills, including the McCain-Feingold Campaign Finance Reform. He created the “Gang of 14,” which allowed the confirmation of judges and avoided a filibuster in the Senate. He has a storied reputation of reaching across the aisle. As president, he will be able to work in Washington to fix Washington’s problems.

Senator McCain’s slogan is “Country First.” His devotion to America is unmatched. He will continue to sacrifice his personal agenda and will passionately protect America from internal corruption and external threats if elected president of the United States.