Loudon, NH-

Republican presidential nominee John McCain made a brief appearance at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon, NH this past Sunday, September 14. Despite a rain delay, the Arizona Senator arrived at the racetrack just before noon with his wife Cindy McCain.

The Public Relations Director of the Motor Speedway, Fred Neergaard, stated that McCain chose to attend the race because “with over 105,000 people in attendance and millions watching on television, it was a wonderful opportunity for him to say hello to fellow NASCAR fans.”

The McCain’s have always been dedicated fans of NASCAR and racing in general according to Neergaard. The Senator did not stay in one place for too long during the race. Neergaard commented that they “made many stops throughout the speedway.”

The presidential hopeful took center stage before the race with his wife for a brief address to the crowd. McCain spoke of the “great state of New Hampshire” but also focused on hurricane victims in the southern United States. He also thanked NASCAR for being a strong advocate for the troops overseas.

The crowd seemed to respond well to McCain’s address. Maurer pointed out that in 2000 and 2008 McCain clinched New Hampshire during the Republican primaries and has maintained loyal supporters here in the Granite State.

“McCain considers New Hampshire important,” according to Eric Maurer the McCain headquarters Field Director in Stratham, NH. Maurer claims, “ ‘Live Free or Die’ fits in perfectly with his [McCain’s] approach to many issues, in contrast to Obama who would rather the federal government manage most aspects of citizens lives.”

McCain has been leading a busy campaign trail across the United States. Despite his full schedule, McCain will be returning to New Hampshire at some point, according to Maurer. The exact date and specifics are not yet clear.