Senators to test McCain's independent clout

0 Comments | USA TODAY, May, 2008 | by David Jackson

WASHINGTON -- As a presidential candidate, Republican John McCain made his political name with independent voters in states such as New Hampshire.

Four Republican senators facing tough re-election battles because of the unpopular Iraq war, President Bush's sagging approval ratings and the shaky economy will put McCain's appeal to independents to the test in November.

"I can't think of a Republican candidate who could have more of a positive impact for Republicans nationwide," said Sen. John Sununu, a freshman who faces a rematch with former New Hampshire governor Jeanne Shaheen.

Republicans have 23 Senate seats to defend in the fall, and four incumbents -- Sununu, Susan Collins of Maine, Gordon Smith of Oregon and Norm Coleman of Minnesota -- are...