Republican candidate John McCain was in Missouri on June 18 to discuss his plans for energy reform, but he also addressed a more immediate concern, the flooding in the Midwest as he plans to visit Iowa today.

"People in the Midwest have a way of pulling together in adversity," said McCain.

"They're doing that right now and they're showing a lot of courage, and they should have confidence that government will help see them through this time of trial."

The flooding began in eastern Iowa.

Damage estimates so far are around $1.5-billion.