McCain visits Oklahoma

Staff and Wire Reports

Presidential hopeful John McCain visited Oklahoma City on Friday to raise funds for his race to the White House.

"Truth of the matter is it costs a lot of money to run a Presidential campaign," said Gary Jones, Oklahoma Republican party chairman. "Sen. McCain is here to talk to Oklahomans to see if he can get their help financially."

An estimated 300 people, including business and political leaders, attended the private event, but the amount of money raised was not immediately released by the McCain campaign.

The Republican candidate has been gearing up for the fight to the White House, while Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton continue to battle for the Democratic bid.

Whichever Democrat emerges with the nomination, Oklahoma Republicans at the fundraiser said they are confident McCain will win the Presidential election.

"I don't think this country is center left," Congresswoman Mary Fallin said. "I think this country is center right and that's why in the end, I think John McCain will be elected."

Tickets to the fundraiser cost supporters $1,000, and $2,300 for a picture with the senator, but not everyone was in line for a snapshot.

McCain left Oklahoma later that evening and was headed to Florida where he'll host another financial reception.