Published: October 30, 2008 11:41 pm      

Ridge: McCain shares Pennsylvania values

The commitment that Sen. John McCain has devoted to his country during his life and to his fellow prisoners of war are the values shared by Pennsylvanians and the reason why he should be elected president, former Gov. Tom Ridge said on Thursday night in Richland Township.

Ridge was the keynote speaker at a McCain/Palin Victory Rally, sponsored by the Cambria County Republican Committee and held at the Richland Township Fire Department on Scalp Avenue.

About 300 supporters attended the event.

Ridge said he has spoken with many POWs who were held captive with McCain during the Vietnam War.

Each tells the same story – that McCain put his country and other POWs first before himself, Ridge told the crowd.

“They have a lot of respect and pride for McCain,” he said.

McCain showed grace under pressure while a captive in an enemy land and would do the same as president, Ridge said.

Recently, Sen. Joe Biden, Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama’s running mate, said during the primary that Obama has not been tested at handling a crisis.

“If we are going to be tested, who do you want to take the examination?” Ridge asked.

In the past, Obama has backtracked on statements he has made, such as agreeing to use public money to finance his campaign, then deciding to forgo public funding when it became obvious he would be able to raise more on his own, Ridge said.

McCain is a man of integrity and character, Ridge said.

Gov. Sarah Palin is a good choice for vice president, he said.

In this part of the state, people are not racist or redneck, he said. Residents are religious, pro-life, pro-military and believe in the Second Amendment.

Those are values to be honored and not disrespected and a reason to support McCain and Palin, he said.

He and other speakers urged the crowd to work hard to get the word out about the fine work Republican candidates at all levels can do for the country.

Jay Eisenhauer, a Republican supporter from East Taylor Township, said Ridge’s speech was excellent.

“John McCain is a real American,” he said. “We have someone to believe in and follow.”

Anita Stoner of Munster Township said Ridge’s speech was encouraging.

He was direct and brought energy to the candidates running for the various offices, she said.

Charles Webb of Richland Township said he is a Democrat but is voting Republican this year.

Webb said Ridge gave a good speech and did a good job of promoting McCain and Palin.

Shirley Cameron of Johnstown said it was nice having Ridge in town.

“He told the truth,” she said.

Ann Wilson, campaign chairwoman for the McCain campaign in Cambria County, said officials are pleased that Ridge came to Johnstown.

“I think he reaffirmed that McCain is a man of great character and integrity,” she said.