Today, Democratic co-frontrunner Senator Barrack Obama of Illinois has gained two valuable endorsements. At the same time, it could be considered as damaging blows to the campaign and candidacy of Democratic co-frontrunner Senator Hillary Clinton of New York.
Earlier today in New York, Obama has received the endorsement of the abortion rights group known as NARAL Pro-Choice America. This abortion rights group has been a strong supporter of Clinton. Clinton’s campaign was taken by surprise of news of the group’s endorsement. However, the reason to support Obama is because it looks that he is highly likely to secure and clinch the Democratic nomination.
Now, Obama has received the endorsement of John Edwards, the former North Carolina Senator and two-time Democratic presidential hopeful. Edwards had dropped out of the race in January before the Super Tuesday contests on February 5. In Grand Rapids, Michigan, Edwards has given his endorsement to Obama.
Ironically, Clinton crushed Obama in West Virginia on Tuesday, May 13. But, the big win for Clinton did not do much. Obama leads over Clinton in the delegates and superdelegates. Clinton’s campaign has suffered a damaging blow after the May 6 contests. She was soundly defeated by Obama in North Carolina. But, Clinton barely defeated Obama in Indiana by two points.
While meeting Obama on stage, Edwards got a loud ovation. Edwards said to the crowd that the Democrats must unify if they are to defeat presumed GOP nominee Senator John McCain of Arizona.
Edwards said that he and Obama stand together to combat poverty.
Like the endorsement from NARAL Pro-Choice America, Edwards’ endorsement of Obama looks to be another crushing blow to Clinton’s campaign. Regardless of Edwards’ endorsement, Clinton is still in the race.
Overall, it all depends on the remaining superdelegates and the fate of Michigan and Florida. Michigan and Florida were stripped of their delegates for holding primaries too early which violates DNC rules. DNC Chair Howard Dean said that there will be a compromise reached in regards to those contests. However, he added that the remaining superdelegates need to pick a candidate by the end of June.
Despite the endorsement for Obama and crushing blow to Clinton’s campaign, the Democratic race is not over yet.