New York: Supported by a group of moderate Republicans in Grand Central Station today afternoon, Sen. John McCain has won the endorsement of the former New York governor George Pataki.

Endorsing McCain, Pataki said, "These are times that demand experienced, principled leadership. That leader is Senator John McCain. No one can bring the American people together in these challenging times better than John McCain."

According to Pataki, McCain stood out in the GOP field for his national security experience and ability to reach out to independents and Democrats.
 
Former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani, who has already endorsed McCain, earlier in the day in Hamilton, N.J., attested to the fact that McCain outdid him on the political field, and he is the best equipped to win over voters in the tri-state area.
 
Giuliani said, "We need to run in all 50 states, not just 35. Please, Republicans, nominate a candidate that can win in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. He's the only one who has the chance to do that."
 
Later, talking to reporters, McCain said, "I will compete and win in November in New York State as the nominee of our party."

On a bus ride along the New Jersey Turnpike, McCain told reporters that while he is confident he can carry New York and New Jersey tomorrow, he is less sure about California.

Steve Schmidt, McCain’s strategist, who is based in California, told he had been looking at private GOP polls in the race and sees the state as competitive. "I think it will be a close race; I think we will do well there," he said.