John McCain was a prominent American politician and military veteran, serving as a U.S. Senator from Arizona for over three decades. He was known for his strong stance on national security and his commitment to bipartisanship, earning respect from both sides of the aisle. A naval aviator during the Vietnam War, McCain was a prisoner of war for over five years. He later ran for president in 2008, where he was the Republican nominee against Barack Obama. McCain's legacy includes his advocacy for veterans and his willingness to challenge his party on key issues.