John McCain | Biography
John McCain was a distinguished U.S. Senator and Vietnam War veteran, known for his maverick political stance and dedication to public service.
Who is John McCain?
John McCain, born on August 29, 1936, in Coco Solo Naval Air Station in the Panama Canal Zone, was the son and grandson of four-star Navy admirals, setting him on a path marked by military service and public duty. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1958 and served valiantly during the Vietnam War, where he was shot down and captured. McCain endured five and a half years as a prisoner of war, exhibiting extraordinary resilience under brutal conditions, which earned him numerous medals, including the Silver Star and Bronze Star.
After returning from military service, McCain entered the world of politics, winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982 before moving on to the Senate in 1986, where he earned a reputation as a maverick. His independent spirit often led him to challenge party norms, advocating for campaign finance reform, health care, and foreign policy—especially concerning the Iraq War. McCain's candidacy for president in 2008 solidified his status as a significant figure in American politics, though he ultimately lost to Barack Obama. Later, he continued to play a pivotal role in the Senate, notably opposing attempts to repeal Obamacare amid his battle with brain cancer until his passing on August 25, 2018.
Early Life and Education
John Sidney McCain III was born on August 29, 1936, at Coco Solo Naval Air Station in the Panama Canal Zone, to John S. McCain Jr., a highly decorated naval officer, and Roberta McCain. Growing up as the son and grandson of four-star admirals, the military's influence loomed large over McCain's early life. He spent much of his childhood moving between various naval bases in the United States and abroad, which instilled in him both a sense of discipline and a profound understanding of his family's military legacy.
McCain attended Episcopal High School, an elite boarding school in Alexandria, Virginia, where he graduated in 1954. He then followed in his family's footsteps by enrolling at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. Despite facing challenges academically, graduating fifth from the bottom of his class in 1958, his commitment to a military career remained unwavering. Following his graduation, he completed flight school in 1960, preparing for a life of service that would ultimately lead him into combat during the Vietnam War.
Combat Duty and Vietnam POW
John McCain, following in the distinguished lineage of his naval family, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1958 and swiftly saw action in the Vietnam War. He became a naval aviator, flying bombing missions against North Vietnam. On October 26, 1967, during a bombing run over Hanoi, McCain's aircraft was shot down, leading to his capture by North Vietnamese forces. He sustained critical injuries, breaking both arms and a leg in the crash, and was subsequently imprisoned in the infamous Hoa Lo prison, known as the "Hanoi Hilton." His lineage as the son of a high-ranking officer meant McCain was offered an early release, which he declined, adhering to the military code of conduct.
McCain endured and resisted severe physical and psychological torture during his 5.5 years as a prisoner of war. Solitary confinement was a significant part of his experience, with McCain spending nearly three and a half years isolated from others. His steadfast refusal to accept preferential treatment because of his family's rank earned him a reputation for integrity and resilience among his fellow prisoners. Ultimately released on March 14, 1973, McCain returned home battered yet unbroken, earning numerous military commendations for his courage, including the Silver Star and Bronze Star. His harrowing experiences shaped his political views and commitment to service, influencing his later career as a U.S. senator.
Arizona Congressman and Senator
John McCain embarked on his political journey in 1976 when he was appointed as the Navy's liaison to the U.S. Senate. This role paved the way for his transition from military service to political service. In 1981, he moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where he worked in public relations for his father-in-law's beer distribution company. It was during this time that he cultivated valuable political connections that would soon lead him to public office. McCain was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982, easily securing a seat largely due to his celebrated war record, overcoming initial skepticism about his "carpetbagger" status.
In 1986, following the retirement of Arizona's iconic senator Barry Goldwater, McCain successfully won election to the U.S. Senate. During his time in both the House and Senate, he developed a reputation as a conservative politician willing to challenge the status quo. He often took stands that aligned with the libertarian ideals of limited government and personal responsibility. For instance, McCain openly criticized U.S. policies in Lebanon and the administration's handling of the Iran-Contra affair. His willingness to defy party lines earned him the nickname "maverick," solidifying his image as a principled leader who valued his beliefs over strict party loyalty.
Campaigns for President
John McCain's political journey took a pivotal turn when he announced his candidacy for the Republican presidential nomination in 1999. He emerged as a formidable contender against then-Texas Governor George W. Bush, gaining traction with voters who appreciated his candid and straightforward communication style. McCain's appeal transcended party lines, garnering support from independent voters and disenchanted Democrats, particularly noticeable when he won the New Hampshire primary with significant margins. His campaign emphasized reform, national security, and a strong defense policy, allowing him to connect with the electorate through a blend of traditional conservative ideals and his unique "maverick" persona.
Despite winning several key primaries, including Michigan and his home state of Arizona, McCain ultimately faced a steep challenge on Super Tuesday when Bush secured victories in multiple states, including New York and California. The combined electoral calculus forced McCain to suspend his campaign in March 2000, an outcome that many political analysts attributed to the political machinery and funding behind Bush's candidacy. However, McCain remained a respected figure within the Republican Party, endorsing Bush in May 2000 while retaining a reputation for challenging conventional party lines, which would later define his political legacy.
Years later, McCain officially announced his entry into the 2008 presidential race, gaining the Republican nomination amidst a crowded field. His campaign highlighted his extensive military experience and dedication to national service, resonating with voters, especially after the 9/11 attacks. However, the 2008 election was marked by an unprecedented wave of support for his opponent, then-Senator Barack Obama. Despite spirited debates and a focus on key issues such as economics and foreign policy, McCain ultimately lost the election, which solidified Obama’s position as the first African American president in U.S. history.
Personal Life: Married Life and Children
John McCain's personal life was marked by two significant marriages and a close-knit family. He first married Carol Shepp, a model from Philadelphia, on July 3, 1965. Carol had two children from a previous relationship, whom McCain adopted. The couple had a daughter named Sidney in 1966. However, after 15 years of marriage, McCain and Carol divorced in April 1980. This initial marriage laid the foundation for McCain's subsequent commitment to family and the values he espoused throughout his life.
Shortly after his divorce, McCain met Cindy Hensley, a teacher from Phoenix and daughter of a successful beer distributor. They were married on May 17, 1980, and together they had four children: Meghan, John IV (Jack), James (Jimmy), and Bridget, who was adopted in 1993. McCain's family became a central part of his life, with his children often joining him in public appearances and his daughter Meghan becoming a notable contributor to her father's legacy through her own career in media and advocacy. Throughout his life, McCain emphasized the importance of family and maintained strong relationships with his loved ones, demonstrating his dedication as a husband and father.
Net Worth and Earning: Salary
John McCain, a prominent American politician and war hero, had a net worth that reflected his extensive career in public service and various endeavors. Throughout his time as a U.S. senator from Arizona, McCain's annual salary was approximately $174,000, a sum standard for members of Congress. Additionally, he earned income from book royalties, particularly from his memoir “Faith of My Fathers” published in 1999, and later “The Restless Wave.” The success of these publications contributed significantly to his overall wealth, showcasing his ability to leverage his life experiences and public persona.
McCain also had investments, which included real estate and stocks, adding to his financial portfolio. It's estimated that his net worth fluctuated around $16 million at the time of his death. Despite his considerable wealth, McCain was known for his commitment to public service over personal gain. Throughout his life, he maintained a focus on issues that transcended party lines, often standing firm on principles that reflected his dedication to his country and its citizens, rather than any financial motivation.
