ARLINGTON, VA – Terry Nelson, Campaign Manager for John McCain 2008 issued the following statement: “John McCain has built a solid grassroots organization in Iowa and intends to win the state’s caucuses. He appreciates the unique and critical role the caucuses play in the nomination process and enjoys traveling the state, meeting Iowans, and holding town hall meetings. “In light of today’s news, it is clear that the Ames Straw Poll will not be a meaningful test of the leading candidates’ organizational abilities, so we have decided to forego our participation in the event.”