NASHUA – Despite growing discontent from the public regarding the war in Iraq, Arizona Senator and presidential candidate John McCain stated once again his opposition to bringing the troops home saying progress is being made.

"I understand public opinion. I see the polls all the time," McCain said to employees of global defense contractor BAE Systems. "I know how frustrated Americans are about this conflict." But neighborhoods in Iraq are safer, he said. In Baghdad alone, there are 53 outposts manned by Americans and Iraqis to ensure a level of security.

If the United States were to set a date to withdraw troops, it would send a signal to opposition groups to merely wait until Americans have left, McCain said. The region would then most likely be engulfed by chaos, which could possibly require American troops to be recalled to the area.

The war in Iraq is part of a regional struggle that is spilling over and becoming a global struggle, McCain said, citing the reconstitution of the Taliban in Afghanistan, the threat of Hamas on Israel, Hezbollah in Lebanon and the development of nuclear weapons in Iran as components to the struggle.

To foster an environment of cooperation with the world's nations, McCain said that as President he would close Guantanamo Bay and see to it that Americans never torture prisoners. He would like to also address the issue of climate change with other nations.

McCain also said he would put an end to pork barrel spending by Congress and would fight for line-item veto power.

"There are members of Congress in jail for this," McCain said. "For us not to address this is incredible. That's not what public service is about."

Later, joking about Congress' sagging approval rating, McCain said, "When you get this low, its blood relatives and paid staffers." The reason for the low approval rating, according to McCain, is the partisan environment in Washington. He vowed to work with Democrats as President.

"I promise to reach across the aisle, but I expect them to reach over, too," McCain said.

Prior to his town hall meeting with employees, McCain toured the facility at 95 Canal St. and was briefed on BAE Systems' products and technology being used in the field by soldiers in the armed services.

"You're doing marvelous work," McCain said. "On behalf of the men and women serving our nation overseas, I know they are grateful and you are making them proud."

In addition to his appearance at BAE Systems yesterday, McCain held town hall style meetings in Manchester and Keene.

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