Republicans jump ship as McCain's hopes sink

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Former Maryland senator Charles Mathias said the Democrat contender would enhance America's standing in the world and rescue the economy.

His change of sides was compounded by more setbacks. The congressman running the McCain campaign in Connecticut, Christopher Shays, said the Republican "did not live up to his pledge to fight a clean campaign".

Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, once considered a possible McCain running mate, admitted that Mr Obama "has a pretty good advantage in Minnesota right now." The McCain camp took heart from polls that suggested they were catching up with Mr Obama. A Rasmussen survey claims a three-point gap, at 47 per cent to 50 per cent.

But the defections come on the heels of those of former Secretary of State Colin Powell, ex-Massachusetts Governor William Weld and George Bush's former press secretary Scott McClellan.

"For me, the decision is based on the long-range needs of our country and which of these candidates I feel is better suited to recharge America's economic health, restore its prestige abroad and inspire anew all people who cherish freedom and equality," said Mr Mathias. "For me, that person is Mr Obama."