Sen. Richard Burr is standing by his man.
Burr, a Winston-Salem Republican, was an early backer of GOP presidential contender John McCain, an Arizona senator. He endorsed McCain in March, a move that McCain's camp touted with a press release, Barb Barrett reports.
Since then, McCain's star has fallen steeply. Recent Gallup Poll numbers show him in third place; his fund-raising has been dismal. And his campaign continues to hemorrage staffers; two media strategists left this week after reportedly not being paid for their work.
Policywise, McCain supports immigration reform and continues to back the unpopular war in Iraq.
But, Burr points out, the primaries don’t begin until next winter. He figures that once GOP voters learn more about the other primary candidates, many will prefer McCain.
"I anticipate a lot of volatility," Burr said. "I didn't make the decision based on where he was in the polls. I made the decision based on who I thought had the experience and passion to be president on Day One."
Still, Burr acknowledges the bumps.
"Clearly, if the election were held today, it would not be a good outcome for John," Burr said.
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