Obama makes rare downstate Illinois visit to inspect flood zone and sandbag. UPDATE McCain on Midwest floods

Since he’s been running for president, Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.), the presumptive Democratic nominee, has not spent much time in Illinois. On Saturday, Obama visits Quincy, Ill. to inspect Illinois flood damage and help load sandbags– realizing that dealing with the flood stricken Midwest is a national issue. How a president deals with these massive emergencies–and avoid another Katrina mess– will be part of the 2008 presidential conversation.

ARLINGTON, VA — U.S. Senator John McCain today issued the following statement on the flooding in the Midwest:

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those impacted by the flooding throughout the Midwest. Cindy and I would like to extend our sympathies to all those who have lost loved ones, and stand ready to help those in the Midwest to recover and rebuild.”

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