At long last John Edwards made up his mind and officially endorsed Obama at a sports arena in Grand Rapid, Michigan. It might help Obama narrow the broad gap in his appeal to white working class America as John Edwards always emphasized his rural roots. Son of a mill worker, his approval of Obama is a test of trust in the changes to be brought to Washington and the working class. “There is one man who knows and understands that this is a time for bold leadership. There is one man who knows how to create the change, the lasting change, that you have to build from the ground up. There is one man who knows in his heart that it is time to create one America, not two. And that man is Barack Obama,” said Edwards at his announcement. Obama also won the endorsement of NARAL Pro-Choice America. Edwards paid a heartfelt tribute to Clinton who had “shown strength and character.” “She is a leader in this country, not because of her husband, but because of what she has done,” added Edwards. Obama kindly included Clinton in his statement, “John Edwards and I believe in a different America. Hillary Clinton believes in a different America.”

Regardless, Terry McAuliffe, Clinton campaign Chairman, vowed to continue.

JOHN EDWARDS ENDORSEMENT TO OBAMA: BIG BLOW TO CLINTON
By Michael Finnegan (LA Times 5/15/08)
Abstract by Johana Nadler
click here to view orginal article

John Edwards believes that “silence is the better part of valor” as one of his former top adviser said. Though Edwards has been hosting both candidates, he has been frank and straight to the point with each of them. He does agree on some of the issues Obama is raising yet he recognizes Clinton’s experience and readiness for the presidency. Additionally, he seems to think that “the way she has pursued his support has a level of seriousness he has not seen from the other guy.” comments the adviser. After all, why rush, North Carolina’s primary isn’t due till May, and there is plenty of time to re-evaluate the situation. In the meantime, Edwards remains at his status quo.

By David Paul Kuhn (Politico.com 3/21/08)
Abstract by Johana Nadler
click here to view original article

Will Edward be endorsing Obama or Clinton? Tough choice and one that
John and Elizabeth Edwards are agonizing over. One main question arises
and that is whether Obama is ready to take upon the role of president on
day one? Additionally, Obama’s health care plan isn’t as well thought
out as Edwards would have hoped for. But, on the other hand, Edwards
always disliked Clinton’s policies and her well known links to special
interests, hence supporting her seems quite unlikely. So what was
Obama’s secret and unexpected visit to Edwards all about?

by Nedra Pickler (A.P.)
AJC Feb 18, 2008
Abstract by Johana Nadler