Sen. McCain will not endorse anyone in Republican presidential primary

FILE – In this June 16, 2015 file photo, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain, R-Ariz., listens during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington. Over White House objections, the Senate is poised to pass a $612 billion defense policy bill that calls for arming Ukraine forces, prevents another round of base closures […]

by: mgshare

Posted: Jan 21, 2016 / 03:26 PM EST

Updated: Jan 21, 2016 / 03:26 PM EST

WASHINGTON (MEDIA GENERAL) – Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) said on Thursday he will not endorse anyone in the Republican presidential primary.

“I’ve got my own race to run, which I view as being a very very tough race and a great challenge,” he said. “And I’ve got to spend my time and effort in what’s going to be a very tough political campaign.”

CNN’s John King claimed on Sunday, staffers from Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush’s campaign were trying to win the Arizona senator’s endorsement.

“I’ve definitely decided that I won’t endorse in this race,” Sen. McCain said.

McCain did express admiration for Bush, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Ohio Gov. John Kasich.