There is no doubt that McCain is a conservative. But he has a demonstrated record of working across the aisle with Democrats on immigration and campaign finance reform as well as speeding confirmation of judicial nominees.

What is striking is his willingness to speak unpleasant truths even though they may cost him votes. In Michigan, Mitt Romney pandered for votes, claiming he would bring back lost auto industry jobs. McCain said that the traditional auto jobs were unlikely to return. In Iowa, a corn-producing state, McCain stuck to his opposition to subsidies for corn-based ethanol.

McCain bucked his party and president with his support of a ban on torture of terrorism suspects. He has also differed from the president in his opposition to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and need for action on global warming.

He was the leading and earliest critic among Republicans of the Bush administration's handling of the war in Iraq, arguing that more troops were needed. McCain's criticism led directly to the successful troop surge President Bush ordered last year. Instead of urging an early troop withdrawal, McCain has maintained the need for a long-term troop commitment in Iraq despite the stand's unpopularity.

McCain's main weakness may be his admitted lack of knowledge about the economy. That may be the main strength of Romney, the former Massachusetts governor whose wealth stems from his career as a venture capitalist.

As governor, Romney deserves credit for passage of an insurance plan intended to provide universal health care coverage. Despite the plan's flaws, it is a significant experiment from which other states can learn. As a presidential candidate, he has appeared ready to say whatever is necessary to gain votes. It is a common failing among politicians.

McCain's clear stances, however, leave no confusion in voters' minds. With his willingness to work across party lines and strong appeal to unaffiliated voters, McCain is the most electable Republican candidate.