McCain gets endorsement of elder Bush

Former U.S.president George H.W. Bush has endorsed Senator John McCain's bid for the Republican presidential nomination.

Speaking in Texas with McCain at his side, the father of the current U.S. president described the Arizona senator as someone whose character has been `forged in the crucible of war.'

Bush said the United States does not have `the luxury of taking a pass' on its responsibilities in an increasingly complex world.

He said he believes McCain is the candidate best prepared to lead the country in the future. McCain, who was the underdog before the race started in earnest, has all but tied up the nomination with 830 of the 1196 delegates required to win.

When Mitt Romney endorsed him last week, he said he would release his 286 delegates, meaning that if they all throw their support with the Arizona Senator, he would need 80 additional delegates.

His challenger, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, is trailing way behind with only 217 delegates and is holding out for a 'miracle'.

For more on the U.S. Presidential campaign, go to CNN politics