Schwarzenegger Endorses McCain

Bill Whalen, a research fellow at the libertarian Hoover Institution who served as the chief speechwriter for former California governor Pete Wilson, said that "conservatives in California have a lot of concerns with Arnold." But he added that the endorsement would solidify McCain's standing among Republican moderates and generate positive news coverage.

"It just adds to the perception of momentum and inevitability," Whalen said.

McCain made a point of telling reporters during his appearance with Schwarzenegger that Texas Gov. Rick Perry (R), who supported Giuliani before the former mayor dropped out of the race on Wednesday, endorsed him Thursday as well.

"You will see a flood of endorsements across this country, both liberal and conservative," McCain said, adding that he would work to unify the party. "We need all parts of our party together if we're going to win in November. I believe our party is beginning to realize that."

Less than two weeks ago, Schwarzenegger said he would not endorse anyone in the presidential race. On Thursday, he said that stance changed when Giuliani bowed out. "It's all Rudy's fault," the governor said, laughing, "because both of these men are friends of mine, and that's why I didn't want to endorse anyone."

Since Giuliani endorsed McCain, the senator has been doing everything he can to enlist the aid of politicians who are close to the former mayor. McCain strategist Steve Schmidt, who ran Schwarzenegger's 2006 reelection campaign, acted as the go-between and ensured that the governor spoke to McCain on Tuesday after the senator won the Florida primary.

At campaign stops, Romney derided McCain for having what he considers a lack of economic experience. Romney told supporters Thursday that the key question before voters is: Which candidate is best prepared to revitalize the nation's economy? "He says it's not his strong suit," the former venture capitalist said, referring to a McCain comment about economics. "It is my strong suit. . . . When the economy is in trouble, it's helpful to have a person as president who's actually had a real job in the economy."

Huckabee spoke to reporters in San Diego and held a pair of events in San Francisco.

Staff writer Dan Balz contributed to this report.