In ZANESVILLE, Ohio, on Monday, Republican presidential candidate John McCain made efforts to separate himself from President George W. Bush, while Democrat Barack Obama tried to link the two together during a day of intense campaigning. McCain stated on NBC's "Meet the Press" that while he shares a common philosophy with the Republican Party, he has also stood up against President Bush and other party members, resulting in visible scars. Obama used McCain's statement to his advantage in a speech in Denver, highlighting the similarities between McCain and Bush. Obama addressed a crowd of over 100,000 supporters in a Denver park, saying that he will not allow George Bush to hand the presidency over to John McCain. Despite trailing in opinion polls, McCain remains optimistic about the election, believing that the race is tightening. McCain reflected on the 41st anniversary of being shot down in Vietnam, emphasizing his dedication to serving his country throughout his life. Obama and his team have consistently tried to link McCain to Bush by pointing out how often the Arizona senator has voted in line with the president. In response, McCain has emphasized his disagreements with Bush on various issues such as government spending, Iraq strategy, and climate change. McCain has expressed respect for Bush but believes that the country cannot afford to continue on the same path for another four years. Obama stated that he is running for president of the United States because it is time for a change in Washington. He is currently leading in national opinion polls and in many battleground states, including Iowa, which Bush won in 2004. A recent poll by Courier-Lee Enterprises showed Obama with a 54 percent to 39 percent advantage in Iowa. Another poll by Reuters/C-SPAN/Zogby indicated a closer race overall, with Obama leading McCain 49 percent to 44 percent among likely U.S. voters in their daily tracking poll. The Illinois senator's lead in this poll has decreased over the past three days, dropping from a high of 12 points on Thursday. Some Republicans are concerned that McCain's campaign has been inconsistent and could jeopardize not only Republican efforts to retain the White House, but also many seats in Congress. McCain stated that they are doing well and have narrowed the gap in the past week. He expressed confidence that if the current trend continues, they will be in a strong position on Election Night. McCain also noted the intensity and passion among voters, highlighting the competitiveness of the race and expressing pride in his campaign. McCain expressed his full support for his vice presidential running mate Sarah Palin, the Governor of Alaska who has excited the Republican base but has faced strong criticism on various issues. Despite her popularity, many Americans doubt her readiness to assume the presidency. Initially seen as a boost to McCain's campaign, Palin has faced intense scrutiny and some conservatives question her experience to be next in line for the presidency. McCain stands by Palin, praising her rather than defending her. McCain expressed that Palin does not require any defense and he believes she lives a frugal life. He addressed concerns about the Republican National Committee buying $150,000 worth of clothes for her and her family, stating that a third of the clothes were returned and the rest would be donated to charity. McCain commended Palin for her ability to energize crowds and conduct herself admirably.