McCain falters in Kansas

SENATOR John McCain flunked his first ballot tests since becoming Republican nominee-in-waiting.

He lost Kansas caucuses to rival Mike Huckabee, gaining less than 24% of the vote.

Mr Huckabee, the former Arkansas governor, got nearly 60% of the vote a few hours after saying: “I majored in miracles, and I still believe in them.” He won all 36 delegates at stake in Kansas. He also won the Louisiana primary, but fell short of 50%, the threshold necessary to pocket the 20 delegates available. Instead, they will be awarded at a state convention next weekend.