Editor & Publisher, a trade publication, is keeping up with the endorsements. McCain endorsements: Amarillo Globe-News: 44,764 Beaumont Enterprise: 45,684 Corpus Christi Caller-Times: 53,368 Dallas Morning News: 368,313 The Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: 49,094 San Antonio Express-News: 225,447 Times Record News (Wichita Falls) : 28,888 Wharton Journal-Spectator: 5,000 Obama endorsements: Austin American-Statesman: 170,309 The Eagle (Bryan-College Station): 21,654 Houston Chronicle (B): 494,131 The Lufkin Daily News (K): 12,225 This is the crucial language from the endorsement of Obama by the Chronicle, the paper with the state’s largest circulation: In comments to the Chronicle editorial board during his Texas primary fight against Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, Obama explained why he believed he would be the best choice for president. “More than any other candidate, I could bridge some of the partisan, racial and religious divides in this country that prevent us from getting things done,” said Obama. “I believe that I could attract independents and some disillusioned Republicans into a working majority to bring about change on critical issues.” Back in the spring, Obama’s sentiments seemed more a hope than reality. Since then, we have watched him grow in the roles of candidate and leader, maintaining grace under fire without resorting to political expediency. He is by far the best choice to deliver the changes that Americans demand. This is the Express-News’ take on McCain: McCain brings a proven track record of fighting the bipartisan fiscal irresponsibility that prevails in Washington. He is a powerful opponent of wasteful earmarks, which the Arizona senator properly describes as a “gateway drug” to corruption. There can be no doubt that he would wield the veto pen against the excesses of Congress, no matter which party sits in the majority. With deficit spending soaring, his dedication to responsible fiscal policy is desperately needed in the White House. During his military career and 26 years in Congress, McCain has become an expert on foreign policy and security issues. From Latin America to the Caucasus to the Middle East and Asia, McCain has intimate knowledge of the issues and the personalities. McCain’s understanding of the world and the nation’s security needs is a crucial asset in these tumultuous times. And few leaders in U.S. history have had more first-hand knowledge of the toll war takes on military personnel and their families. With public respect for political institutions residing at or near all-time lows, the American people need a president willing to transcend partisanship and do what is best for the nation. Only McCain has a record of challenging his own party on key issues such as immigration and global warming.