Will blacks vote for McCain?

Senator John McCain spoke to the NAACP on Wednesday, praising the organization and his Democratic rival, while offering a package of education reform to the mostly black audience. But McCain is still facing an uphill climb to win votes in the African American community. 

McCain began his speech by apologizing for rejecting the group's offer to attend its convention last year, blaming his decision on the collapse of his campaign. "I hope you'll excuse me for passing on the opportunity at your convention last year," he said. "As you might recall, I was a bit distracted at the time dealing with what reporters uncharitably described as an implosion in my campaign. But I'm very glad you invited me again."

The Arizona senator also praised his Democratic rival, Barack Obama, as "an impressive fellow" who had "inspired a great many Americans."

The political highlight of McCain's remarks came in his pledge to make education a top priority in the White House. "If I am elected president, school choice for all who want it, an expansion of Opportunity Scholarships, and alternative certification for teachers will all be part of a serious agenda of education reform," he said.

The Obama campaign issued a quick response. "[M]aking education the national priority will require more than campaign speeches, or recycled bromides. It will require a genuine and sustained commitment to policies that will strengthen and not undermine our public schools," the campaign said in a statement.

Both Obama and McCain used their speeches to lavish praise on the NAACP, which is holding its 99th convention and preparing to celebrate its 100 year in February. McCain on Wednesday lauded the NAACP for leading the fight for social justice and equality. "I'm here today as an admirer and a fellow American," he told the crowd.

The feeling may not be mutual. A New York Times/CBS News poll released on Wednesday shows McCain drawing only 2 percent of the black vote. Facing the nation's first ever black presidential nominee of a major political party, McCain admitted that his views may not be consistent with the attendees of the convention.

"I am a candidate for president who seeks your vote and hopes to earn it," McCain told the NAACP. "But whether or not I win your support, I need your goodwill and counsel. And should I succeed, I'll need it all the more."