Conservative Christian leader James Dobson, who once stated that he would not endorse John McCain, reversed his position on August 29, 2008, after McCain chose Evangelical Christian Sarah Palin as his running mate. Dobson has opposed McCain's views on stem cell research and gay marriage.The New York Times: Dobson Leans Toward Endorsing McCain (July 21, 2008)

The following quotes illustrate Dobson's changing opinion of the McCain campaign through 2008:

February 5:

• "I cannot, and will not, vote for Senator John McCain, as a matter of conscience."—James DobsonThe Boston Globe: Dobson whacks McCain, says he can't vote for him (February 5, 2008)

July 21:

• "I never thought I would hear myself saying this... While I am not endorsing Senator John McCain, the possibility is there that I might."—James DobsonThe New York Times: Dobson Leans Toward Endorsing McCain (July 21, 2008)

August 29:

• "A lot of people were praying, and I believe Sarah Palin is God's answer. Conditions change, and they changed radically today. I've not been so excited about a political candidate since Ronald Reagan."—James DobsonNational Journal: Dobson Endorses McCain In Wake of Palin Pick (August 29, 2008)