McCain not ready to endorse for 2012

WASHINGTON, March 29 (UPI) -- U.S. Sen. John McCain said Sunday he is not committed to backing Sarah Palin, his 2008 vice presidential running mate, if she runs for president in 2012.

The Arizona Republican said in an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press" program that he is waiting to see who decides to run for the White House.

"I'd like to see her compete," McCain said of Palin, the governor of Alaska. "I think we've got some very good candidates …There's a lot of good, fresh talent out there."

McCain mentioned the possible candidacies of Govs. Jon Huntsman of Utah, Bobby Jindal of Louisiana and Tim Pawlenty of Minnesota.

Although he is not yet endorsing Palin or any other candidate, McCain noted that he has "respect, admiration and love for Sarah and her family."