McCain Makes His Pitch to Hard Core Conservatives

Today John McCain will speak before the Council for National Policy meeting in New Orleans.

The Council for National Policy is a group of conservatives primarily interested in social issues, but generally seeking conservative solutions in most areas.

According to today's Washington Times, the impression McCain makes

could turn out to be his make-or-break pitch for support from some of the right's most influential critics of his past positions and policies.

Frankly, I'm skeptical about epiphanies and sudden changes of heart and promises made on the campaign trail, but equally frankly, McCain is going to need the support of conservatives if he's going to have a hope of winning in November. I wonder if he regrets spitting in conservatives faces for the past eight or nine years?

Some are not so optimistic about McCain's speech today, according to the Times article:

The depth of disaffection from Mr. McCain among prominent members of CNP is so strong that some are already questioning the group's bona fides.

"It will say more about the state of the conservative movement than it does McCain," a veteran CNP member said. "If he is accepted at CNP, this will mark the official end of the conservative movement as we knew it."

CNP does not publicize its meetings, speakers or agenda, but the McCain campaign informed the press of his agreement to address the council. As a result, reporters following the McCain campaign deluged the council with requests for coverage.

According to Carl Cameron's Fox News blog, there will be video of McCain's speech available later.

As much as I don't like McCain, I voted for a local McCain delegate last night, in pursuit of a place at the national convention. If I can do that, I guess anything is possible.

Another, more conservative yet viable option could still open up in the time remaining. But if the choice is McCain or Clinton/Obama, while there may be a lack of enthusiasm, most conservative voters will know what to do.