Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) Speaks in La Crosse, Wisconsin

(APPLAUSE)

You know the stakes couldn't be higher not only for our nation's security, but for our economy. We need to get the American economy back on the path of recovery and growth, and job creation for American workers.

Times are tough. This is a time of crisis. We must go to the heart of the problem, and right now that problem is the housing crisis.

And so in the debate this week with my opponent, I proposed a plan to help homeowners across America. Under my orders as president, the secretary of the treasury will carry out a homeownership resurgence plan. The United States government will support the refinancing of distressed mortgages for homeowners and replace them with manageable mortgages so people can stay in their homes. You have to realize the American dream...

(APPLAUSE) ... the American dream of owning a home.

The funds aren't new, but the priorities will be when we put the financial strength of our government back on the side of working families. With so much on the line, the moment requires a government act, and as president, I intend to act quickly and decisively.