MICHIGAN STATE SENATOR MARK JANSEN ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Michigan State Senator Mark Jansen has endorsed John McCain for president and will serve as Co-Chair of the McCain campaign in West Michigan.

"John McCain understands the challenges facing communities in Michigan and has a plan to cut taxes and restore trust in our government. His lifetime of service and experience makes him the most prepared to lead from day one and that was made very clear by the recent tragedy in Pakistan," said Senator Mark Jansen. "He is the only candidate prepared to lead our country in the battle against radical extremism and I am proud to support his candidacy."

John McCain added, "I am grateful that Mark is joining our team and will help lead our efforts in West Michigan. I look forward to working with him as we gear-up for Michigan's January 15th Primary and to visiting our friends in West Michigan again soon."

Senator Jansen was recently named the most conservative member of the Michigan Senate by MichiganVotes.org. He will serve as Chair of the West Michigan town hall with John McCain on January 9th -- the day after the New Hampshire Primary.

Senator Jansen was elected to the Michigan State Senate in 2006. He was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in November 1996 and was re-elected twice, serving through 2002. During his first term, he was elected by his peers to be an assistant minority whip and was a member of the House Bipartisan Urban Caucus. During his second term, the Speaker appointed Jansen to lead the House Republican Policy Committee and to serve on the House Republican Campaign Committee. Before his tenure in the Michigan House, Jansen was elected as the Gaines Township Clerk from 1992-1996.

In 2007, Senator Jansen was awarded Michigan's Children Legislative Hero Award, Michigan Soft Drink Association's Legislative Leadership Award, Michigan Non-Profit Association National Service Champion Award and the Michigan Municipal League Legislator Salute.