Is John McCain A-List?
No — John McCain is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Ranking Timeline
Prisoner of War
Shot down in Vietnam, becoming a POW for 5+ years.
Release and Homecoming
Released after years as a POW, becoming a symbol of resilience.
Elected to Congress
Enters politics, serving in the House of Representatives.
Elected to Senate
Elected to the Senate, becoming a prominent political voice.
Presidential Primary Run
Makes a run for the presidency, but loses in the primaries to George W. Bush.
Presidential Nomination
Becomes the Republican nominee for President, running against Barack Obama.
Passing Away
Passed away after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of service and bipartisanship.
Last updated: February 23, 2026