McCain clears primary hurdle

US Senator John McCain defeated conservative challenger J.D. Hayworth in the Republican primary in his bid for a fifth term.

Mr McCain, who unsuccessfully fought Barack Obama for the US presidency, faced an aggressive challenge from Mr Hayworth two years after his tough loss in pursuit of the White House.

Mr Hayworth attempted to tap into the anti-incumbent rage that brought down other politicians this year while hammering the long-time senator on immigration.

Mr McCain now begins a final 10-week push in what could be his last campaign. He will be heavily favoured to beat his Democrat opponent.