Bush, McCain Refuse to Tread on Flag

George W. Bush and John McCain, anxiously courting South Carolina Republicans, sought Wednesday to avoid offending anyone over the state’s practice of flying the Confederate flag.

McCain, campaigning far away in Dublin, N.H., read a statement about the flag to avoid any misunderstanding about his position.

“As to how I view the flag, I understand both sides,” the Arizona senator said. “Some view it as a symbol of slavery. Others view it as a symbol of heritage,” which is a phrase used by some white Republicans who want the flag to continue flying over the South Carolina statehouse.

“Personally, I see the battle flag as a symbol of heritage,” explained McCain, a Navy veteran who comes from a long line of military leaders. “I have ancestors who have fought for the Confederacy, none of whom owned slaves. I believe they fought honorably.”

Bush, meanwhile, repeated his oft-stated position that the decision is up to South Carolina voters.

The flag has flown above the statehouse since 1962. Five years ago, legislators rebuffed then-GOP Gov. David Beasley’s attempts to take it down. The state holds its presidential primary on Feb. 19.