McCain says campaign goes on

In the face of the resignation of two key staffers, lagging poll numbers and a lackluster fundraising performance, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) said Tuesday that his presidential campaign would go on.

“In the days and weeks ahead this campaign will move forward, and I will continue to address the issues of greatest concern to the American people, laying out my vision for a secure and prosperous America,” McCain said following the resignation of campaign manager Terry Nelson and chief strategist John Weaver.

{mosads}The senator said he accepted the resignations “with regret and deep gratitude for their dedication, hard work and friendship.”

Nelson and Weaver were crucial pieces of the senator’s attempt to capture the GOP nomination and the White House. Their departure deals another blow to McCain and leaves observers wondering how many more setbacks the campaign can endure.

 “This morning I informed Senator McCain that I would be resigning from his presidential campaign, effective immediately,” said Nelson. “It has been a tremendous honor to serve Senator McCain and work on his campaign. I believe John McCain is the most experienced and prepared candidate to represent the Republican Party and defeat the Democratic nominee next year.”

John Weaver, McCain’s chief strategist, also resigned.

“It has been my honor and a distinct privilege to serve someone who has always put our country first,” he said. “I believe that most Americans will come to the conclusion that I have long known there is only one person equipped to serve as our nation's chief executive and deal with the challenges we face, and that person is John McCain.”