McCain: Record refutes conservative issue

NEW YORK, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Sen. John McCain of Arizona said Tuesday claims he isn't conservative enough just don't add up because "I've got the record."

"All kinds of accusations fly" because of strong allegiances to candidates, McClain said on NBC's "Today" as people in two dozen states either vote in party primaries or discuss presidential preferences in caucus.

Conservative commentators Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh -- as well as GOP rival Mitt Romney -- have challenged McClain's conservative pedigree.

"And my job is to convince everybody that ... I'm the conservative candidate. I've got the record," McCain said.

McCain also was asked about some in his party commenting on his temperament.

"I've never been elected Miss Congeniality, because I've fought against" pork barreling, lobbyist influence and other issues "which have caused the American people to hold us in such low esteem."