This week’s opinion marketplace

Tuesday saw the Republican National Convention back on track with President, former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson and Independent Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman speaking on behalf of “Country First.” President Bush was seen through a taped message from the White House.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — President Bush hailed John McCain on Tuesday night as a man “ready to lead this nation” and a courageous candidate who risked his White House ambitions to support an unpopular Iraq war. Republicans defended vice presidential running mate Sarah Palin in the face of fresh controversy.

AUSTIN, Texas — President Bush said Monday that coordination among states and the federal government in response to Hurricane Gustav has been better than during Katrina, which devastated the Gulf Coast in 2005 and tattered his administration’s reputation for handling crises.

ARLINGTON — President Bush paid tribute Monday to America’s fighting men and women who died in battle, saying national leaders must have “the courage and character to follow their lead” in preserving peace and freedom.