Sen. John McCain's conservative credentials have been called into question recently by the more extreme voices of the Republican Party. That's unfortunate because the Arizona senator is more than just a conservative, he is a principled leader whose first duty is to his country, not to his party.

McCain has always remained true to the fundamental principles of the GOP, which might be the reason that he seems out of step to latter day conservatives. But that's what makes him so appealing as a presidential candidate. His sense of duty to his country (which he paid dearly for in a North Vietnamese POW camp) is unshakeable. He understands that the United States is a diverse country requiring a deft touch to govern. McCain has that touch.

He has not been afraid to work with Democrats on issues of critical importance, such as illegal immigration. He understands that little of significance can be accomplished in Congress without a bipartisan approach to the issues. With Congress so closely divided along party lines - and likely to remain in the hands of Democrats for the foreseeable future - McCain's brand of leadership would be

indispensible.

McCain's military service also gives him an advantage in these trying times that few candidates can offer. A Navy pilot during the Vietnam War, he has an affinity for the troops and an understanding of defense issues that make him the clear choice for Republican voters.