In these times of economic uncertainty, international turbulence, and energy dependence America needs a high capacity leader to lead us into continued prosperity, peace, and independence. But what makes a great leader and who will be that great leader for us?

In his book, Good to Great, Jim Collins writes that good is the enemy of great, and he defines what helps an entity transition from good to great. One of the keys in transitioning to greatness is having great leadership. Jim Collins defines this type of leader as a level 5 leader. A level 5 leader is defined as someone who “builds enduring greatness through a paradoxical blend of personal humility and professional will. Level 5 leaders channel their ego needs away from themselves and into the larger goal of building a great company. It’s not that level 5 leaders have no ego or self-interest. Indeed, they are incredibly ambitious, but their ambition is first and foremost for the institution, not themselves.”

Washington is filled with good leaders, but that is the problem. America needs great leaders that are willing to but country first and partisan politics and self egos last. Senator John McCain continually proves himself to be this great leader to help America continue her enduring greatness. Just look at his narrative and record:

Senator McCain has served his country for 54 years. Starting at the Naval Academy in Annapolis and continuing today during his run for President, McCain has a long record of service to the United States. He has fought in the Vietnam War, where he suffered as a prisoner of war. He has served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. His service and dedication to this country is unquestionable. He has put his country first as he risked his life on the battle field. And he is putting his country first as he fights in Congress for what he feels is right, not what is popular or partisan.

His record speaks this truth. “The Almanac of American Politics rates congressional votes as liberal or conservative on the political spectrum, in three policy areas: economic, social, and foreign. For 2005–2006, McCain's average ratings were as follows: the economic rating was 59 percent conservative and 41 percent liberal, the social rating was 54 percent conservative and 38 percent liberal, and the foreign rating was 56 percent conservative and 43 percent liberal.” While McCain may have conservative tendencies, his votes show that he is not afraid to vote against his party if needed. That is because McCain puts country first.

Senator McCain is the next great leader America needs, for his ambition is first and foremost for America and not himself. His leadership is tested and proven. He has had a long history of putting his country first. Through his service in our armed forces to his service in Washington, McCain has proven that he puts his self interests and ego last. McCain’s record also demonstrates his maverick approach in following his convictions, not his party, on what is right for America. During these times of big challenges and opportunities for America, we need a leader who has proven time and again to put country first. That leader is John McCain.