McCain on Bush, Sr.

(CBS)

OSHKOSH, WIS. -- Calling him a "great American hero" and "one of the most respected members in the Republican Party," John McCain said he looked forward to meeting with former president George H.W. Bush in Houston on Monday, but didn't refer directly to his impending endorsement. "I had the pleasure of knowing and working for him as president for a number of years," he said. "And it's always a pleasure to be in his company."

The Arizona senator touched on a number of issues at the town hall event, including his disappointment with Democrats in Congress for not acting on the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. "The House of Representatives left town without acting on the so-called FISA, the ability to monitor the telecommunications of those who want to destroy America," he said, surrounded by fighter jets at the Experimental Aircraft Aviation Center and Museum. "I think it's incredibly regrettable." He went on to say that as a matter of national security they should have acted, and noted that President Bush offered to postpone his trip to Africa to work on the legislation.

He also reminded reporters that he and Barack Obama have an agreement to accept public funds to finance their campaigns if they became nominees. "I'm going to keep that commitment. I think the American people have every reason to expect him to keep his commitment," he said. "If Senator Obama goes back on his commitment then obviously we will have to rethink our position."