Perdue Helps McCain Raise Cash

ATLANTA (AP) -- John McCain swept into Georgia to scoop up cash for his presidential campaign on Thursday with the help of a "who's who" of the state Republican establishment.

Many had backed other candidates in the GOP primary and McCain was looking to build unity in a state that former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee carried on Super Tuesday.

Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue, who endorsed McCain only on Monday, hosted the $1,000-per-plate fundraiser for the Arizona senator with Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle.

"Frankly this looked like the United Nations of Republicans tonight" Perdue told The Associated Press. "People from all camps are coming home to the nominee."

McCain clinched the GOP nomination on Tuesday night. It could be some time before he knows whether Hillary Rodham Clinton or Barack Obama will be his Democratic rival come November. And he's using the time to fill his campaign coffers for the coming fight.

McCain faces skepticism from some religious and social conservatives in the state.

That was visible Thursday night as anti-immigration activists protested outside the sleek Atlanta hotel where McCain the fundraiser was taking place. They are still angry over his legislation that would have provided illegal immigrants a pathway to citizenship.

"Say No To John McAmnesty," read one sign.

Mary Kirkendoll said McCain's immigration stance has ruled him out as a candidate she can vote for.

"I guess I'll have to write in Lou Dobbs on the ballot," the Smyrna resident said, referring the CNN anchor who has been outspoken in his criticism of illegal immigration.

But House Speaker Glenn Richardson said McCain had the right credentials.

"He is a great conservative and compared to the Democratic field he is an arch conservative," Richardson said as he hustled out of the $2,300-per-person VIP reception for the senator.

McCain was to remain in Georgia overnight and was scheduled to hold a town hall meeting with Chick-fil-A employees at company headquarters in College Park Friday morning.