[Charles Henrickson]

but McCain doesn't support the platform on three issues important to evangelicals: abortion, gay marriage and embryonic stem cell research.

That is misleading. On the first two, McCain supports the federalist approach, i.e., let the states decide. On abortion, therefore, that would mean overturning Roe v. Wade. I agree. That is the constitutional, federalist issue.

If, after that, there becomes a desire for a constitutional amendment nationalizing the issue and banning abortion in all states--well, then go about the amendment process. But the necessary and much more achievable first step is overturning RvW and returning the matter to the states.

[MrB]

Here’s the best strategy, IMHO:

Get a majority on the USSC.
Overturn R v W.
Let the states pass their restriction laws.
Work state to state until you get 3/4.

THEN go for the amendment.