MINNEAPOLIS-- U.S. Sen. John McCain's New Hampshire campaign co-chairman said the theory that the GOP presidential nominee will help Republicans down-ballot in New Hampshire is "overrated."

"I think it's overrated but it's important to have McCain on the ticket," Peter Spaulding told PolitickerNH.com when asked whether McCain's presence on the ballot will help Republicans in the Granite State. "The farther you go down the ballot the less effect it has."

Spaulding said the campaign has organized thousands of volunteers and is satisfied with the campaign's grassroots efforts.

"McCain has to be a very sailable candidate to win in New Hampshire, which he's proved twice that he can do" Spaulding said. "I'm confident that we're going to win in New Hampshire."