Kucinich urges supporters to back Obama...

Posted: Tuesday, January 01, 2008 3:58 PM by Mark Murray

From NBC's Mark Murray and Lauren Appelbaum
...if he doesn't meet the 15% threshold in Thursday's Iowa caucuses. Kucinich made a similar endorsement of Edwards back in 2004, and that (among many other things) helped Edwards finish second in Iowa that year. "This is obviously an 'Iowa-only' recommendation, as Sen. Obama and I are competing in the New Hampshire primary next Tuesday where I want to be the first choice of New Hampshire voters," Kucinich said in a statement."

"I hope Iowans will caucus for me as their first choice this Thursday, because of my singular positions on the war, on health care, and trade. This is an opportunity for people to stand up for themselves. But in those caucus locations where my support doesn't reach the necessary threshold, I strongly encourage all of my supporters to make Barack Obama their second choice. Sen. Obama and I have one thing in common: Change."

*** UPDATE *** Just several minutes before we received this statement, NBC/NJ's Aswini Anburajan received this one from Obama's New Hampshire spokesman: “The voters of New Hampshire deserve to hear all the Democratic candidates’ views on who can best lead America in a fundamentally new direction, and that’s why I urge these networks to allow full participation in this week’s debate.” As it has been reported, Kucinich -- due to ABC's requirements of either finishing in the top four in Iowa or receiving 5% in NH and national polls -- will likely be excluded from this weekend's New Hampshire debate.

*** UPDATE II *** And now Obama has issued this statement: “I have a lot of respect for Congressman Kucinich, and I’m honored that he has done this because we both believe deeply in the need for fundamental change."

More: “He and I have been fighting for a number of the same priorities -- including an end to the war in Iraq that we both opposed from the start, reforming Washington and creating a better life for America's working families. I encourage all Iowans to take part in the caucuses this Thursday – not because it will be good for any one candidate, but because it will be good for our party and the future of our country.”

EMAIL THIS

Comments

Hooray for Dennis Kucinich! Thank you so much.
Obama '08

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:14 PM)

Thank You Dennis!

Come Together, Right Now......Go Democrats!

curtis Walker, Grass Valley, CA (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:17 PM)

Give it up for Kucinich.

Great Iowa endorsement.

Ike B. (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:23 PM)

Does this mean that Kookcinich is throwing in the towel?

American Voter (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:32 PM)

Dennis has so much integrity; atypical of a politician.

Kudos for Dennis.

RobK, Seattle, Wash (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:38 PM)

I supported Kucinich at the Hawaii caucuses in 2004 and was a Kucinich delegate at the Hawaii State Democratic Convention. This year I've backed Obama from the start and will do so at the Hawaii caucus on Feb. 19. Mahalo, Dennis. We're all on the same team.

Malama Makena, Maui, Hawaii (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:43 PM)

Barack Hussein Rezkobama, bought and paid for by Rezmar Corporation; New Kenwood LLC; Miner Barnhill & Galland; Cottage View Terrace Development; SkyTerra, etc, etc, etc.
Come clean Saint Obama, where did you stash the $200,000 from Rezko?
During his 12 years in politics, Sen. Barack Rezkobama has received nearly three times more campaign cash from indicted businessman Tony Rezko and his associates than he has publicly acknowledged, the Chicago Sun-Times has found.
Obama has collected at least $168,308 from Rezko and his circle. Obama also has taken in an unknown amount of money from people who attended fund-raising events hosted by Rezko since the mid-1990s.
But seven months ago, Obama told the Sun-Times his "best estimate" was that Rezko raised "between $50,000 and $60,000" during Obama's political career.

Obama lies and lies and lies. Hey Barack, take a page from Jesse Jackson's book, if anybody criticizes you just call them a racist then all debate ends. It works wonders with the Chicago newspapers.

Vote Early and Vote Often!

Big Al

Big Al from Chicago (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:43 PM)

Great news!

This plus Bidden appears to be pulling for Obama as well. He criticized both Hillary and Edwards. Could be a historic night for a kid born in Hawaii, with ties to Kenya, Indonesia and Kansas. Only in America can suck things happen.

nadeem, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:49 PM)

Dennis Kucinich drove CLEVELAND into near BK in 1970's.

-TODAY HAS VERY ATTRACTIVE WIFE-

'kooky' not exactly.

jj (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:52 PM)

Still buying votes Barack?
Obama illegally gave Dennis 5 grand from his Pac too

Like he did carol shea-porter who endorsed him.

Chuck, San D (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 4:55 PM)

Dennis wants to see real change, the change that only Obama can bring. Hillary can't do it because of her ties to interest groups, Edwards can't do it, because he can't even will in his own state of NC. This is a time for us to step up and make a change in Washington and Barack is the Man.

Bmacin, Piscataway, NJ (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:03 PM)

Dennis shows himself to be not only an honorable man but a pragmatic politician, as well.

Gregg Heacock, Santa Monica, CA (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:03 PM)

Nice. Obama gets Kucinich's endorsement and all he has to urge the networks to include Kucinch in the debates. That's a much better deal than Edwards got in 2004.

Mike (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:05 PM)

Thank you Dennis Kucinich ! Obama's time is now. America's time is now. Our future depends on it. From Cleveland Ohio ... Go Obama '08 !

jstipich, Perry, Ohio (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:10 PM)

I can see how "UFO" Kincinich and "pie in the sky" Obama are alike and why little Dennis would encourage his few supporters to go for Obama.

When you think about it...they're both "out there"!!!!!!

The difference is that Kuncinich had policy and told exactly how he was going to change things.

Obama just spouts empty rhetoric and so many words but he NEVER tells EXACTLY what policies or plans he will put in effect to bring about change. Just words!

Both have cute wives but Kunicinch's is drop dead beautiful...sexy! Lucky little Dennis!!!!!!!!!!

Not a Dennis or Brak Supporter (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:12 PM)

I would like an Obama/Kucinich ticket because they are both about change.. Obama had the integrity to oppose the Iraq war and does not accept PAC or lobbyist. He does not pander--he told auto workers they had to build fuel efficient cars. He has more legislative experience than either of the other top tier candidates. He has judgment, vision and can unite this country.

Imani De la Perez, Brooklyn, NY (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:17 PM)

Perhaps this could give him an extra point, but I'd moreso look out for Biden, Richardson, and Dodd, whose #'s combined break well into the double-digits; similar press releases ("if I don't break the 15% mark, please select (yada yada) as your #2 choice") from them could genuinely be crucial. And, while I expected an Obama endorsement from Kucinich (forget Mike Gravel, who hates Obama/Clinton/Edwards about equally), I'd likely forecast Clinton endorsements from the other three lower-tier candidates. And, that would perhaps put her entirely over-the-top.

Andrew, New York (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:19 PM)

ObamaLama and Kucinich Spinach...two peas in a pod.

Hopefully this will be the last time little Dennis bores us with yet another run for President. Yawn!

Wonder if his lovely YOUNG wife will be as "excited" about him now??????????

J J J J (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:19 PM)

Great! I could support an Obama/Kucinich ticket. Obama has vision..he opposed the Iraq war when it was unpopular to do so. He is able to unite a broad base of supporters. That is leadership.. He has more legislative experience than the other top tier candidates. He does not accept PAC or lobbyist monies. That is integrity. He has fought for more transparency in the government and his bill goes into effect in Feb. '08--that's judgment. He wants to bring about change in Washington--That's vision.

Obama is the One... Now is the Time
Obama '08

Imani De la Perez, Brooklyn, NY (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:23 PM)

This empty Sophomoric rhetoric or Obama's is so pie in the sky silly. What the hell does it mean?

The time is now...real change....the change only Obama can bring...audicity of hope

Am I voting for student body president or President of the USA!!!!!!!!!!!

You can mark it down...after George Bush...ALL...repeat...ALL of the Democratic candidates want change, hope and all that other pie in the sky words.

The trick is who can actually leads from day one...as president of the USA not some high school

Never Obama (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:27 PM)

TO: Imani De la Perez, Brooklyn, NY who said "..Obama/Kucinich..does not accept PAC or lobbyist. He does not pander--he told auto workers they had to build fuel efficient cars."

What nonsense! Obama has been on the take from crooked real estate developers and insurance firms in Illinois for years and how is telling auto workers they need to build fuel efficient cars any revelation or solution?

Everybody knows the Dems suck up to the environmental lobby first and give some song and dance to labor unions about being for the American working man. Less then 12% of the US workforce is unionized and the majority of those workers are federal, state and local government unions. Industrial unions mean nothing to the Dems who will use the EPA, OSHA, NLRB, EEOC, FDA to drive the remaining US steel, mining, refining, chemical, nuclear, tobacco, liquor and aluminum industries into the open arms of Red China!

A lot of factories in Ft Wayne are gone thanks to the helping hand of Uncle Sam.

Wake up fool!

Jake B- Ft Wayne (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:35 PM)

Obama's press release sounded very presidential. Obama 08!

sonya, atlanta, ga (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:42 PM)

Nice job supporting Barack, Dennis. Those two votes from your supporters in Iowa will come in handy.

Hendal R., Ames Iowa (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:43 PM)

Good for you Kucinich ! (& Biden too if so !)
Good for Iowa !
Great for America !

Barack Obama for President .

It's time to Rise and Shine again.

PulSamsara (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:48 PM)

Thank you Dennis!

When it comes down to it, and it will, I cannot see any of the other democratic candidates lending support for Hillary.

Harmony (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:50 PM)

I doubt if Joe Biden will publicly endorse any one in the democratic setup. Look the 3 front runners are people he is way way more experienced than, they are his senate colleagues and he is polling above 1% unlike Kucinich.
What is interesting though is that you can be sure if he endorses anyone, it won't be Edwards (after that blistering email he fired at JRE few days ago).
He has just tweeked HRC regarding the Musharaff relection gaffe some few hrs ago.
It could thus be argued, he is endorsing by showing his supporters where to find rest by openly criticising those he doesn't want them to go to.
Plus I think there is considerable anger at HRC and JRE for suggesting the herd be thinned so early in the game at one of the early debates.
Lets just wait. God bless the United States of America.

Samuel Thomson (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:51 PM)

Its time for some of these silly writers to grow up! Where are you getting this information on Obama? If all you can do is make up lies, belittle his name, and offer no sound proof, then you have just convinced me that he is the man to bring about much needed change. And as far as experience goes, look at Clinton's record with Cuba and other foreign countries, his/her response to the Haitian crisis etc? So much for experience. Experience is what has gotten us in the mess we are in now.

jannie Kiser, Benton Harbor, Michigan (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:58 PM)

WOW...I LIKE ALL THE OPTIONS I HAVE AS A DEMOCRATE. I THINK HILL IS THE BEST PREPARED 2 PLAY THE SAME OLD GAME AND I THINK EDWARDS IS DETERMINED ENOUGH TO MAKE SURE I DONT GET STEPPED ON BY BIG MONEY BUT IM ALSO INSPIRED BY OBAMA AND THE THOUGHT OF SOME1 WHO HASNT BEEN TALKED INTO SLEEPING WITH BOTH SIDS OF THE FENCE. I THINK IM GOING WITH OBAMA...THIS COUNTRY IS SO BROKEN IT DOESNT MATTER WHO WE PICK, THEY'LL BE BETTER THAN NOW SO Y NOT AS BILL WOULD SAY.....ROLL THE DICE!!!

OBAMA08!

FRANCO, CHICAGO, IL (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:11 PM)

This is great news for Senator Obama! This endorsement from Kucinich helps to affirm his position as a campaigner for REAL change.

Nashville_fan (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:11 PM)

So many of the anti-Obama posts on this site keep repeating the same groundless nonsense over and over. It's really ridiculous to think that the media, let alone the Clinton campaign, has somehow overlooked any substantive dirt on Obama that would actually matter. That's why we've been hearing about Kindergarten ambitions and admitted youthful indiscretions because basically, that's all they've got. Also, it's well known that Obama has often diverted his own funds to other Dems. It's called supporting your party.

AP from IL (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:12 PM)

yes BARACK THE VOTE...THANK U DENNIS!!!!!!!!!!!

Cherry (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:19 PM)

Here's a hint, Dennis: I switched to "Denny" back when I was, oh, two or three years of age. Though it might be too late, give it a try. At this point in your political life, anything--and I do mean anything--could help.

You're welcoome.

Denny, Alaska (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:29 PM)

First Lady Clinton, Your whole career and marriage has been a margin of error. We Americans are tired of old news and the fights from the party of Humphrey. This is where it all begins.

Mr. Gore, TN (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:39 PM)

Kucinich is the statesman tonight. His heart and his head are in the right place, and you never know when something that seems so small could actually make all the difference. KUDOS to KUCINICH!! On to victory for the O-Train!!!

Mary Lou Morgan, Section, AL (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 6:52 PM)

Wow! Those 6 potential voters may come in handy for Obama.

rich flatts, charlotte, nc (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 7:10 PM)

what is wrong with a muslim in the white house? barack HUSSEIN obama for president! ;p

Martin (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 7:31 PM)

Obama you are great! Obama in '08!

All other opponents are freshmen compared to my great sophmoric candidate!

Obama rules and will rule this election. Lets all stand together and support Obama!

Never Obama (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 7:48 PM)

Great move, Dennis! Alice Walker supported him in 04, supported Obama since the start this year. I've followed Alice's path, and I'm glad we're on the same page.

VCubed (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 7:49 PM)

Thank you, Congressman Kucinich!

Barack Obama will be a phenomenal president!

Martha, Topeka (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 8:17 PM)

what is wrong with a muslim in the white house? barack HUSSEIN obama for president! ;p
Martin (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 7:31 PM)

WOW Martin I see continue to be creative in your messages...

justwaitandsee (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 8:40 PM)

Dennis Kucinish is as crazy as Barack Obama - Yeah that figures that he would endorse him as second, I would be embarrassed if I were Obama, and I agree with Rich Flatts and others who posted that those 2 or 6 votes may come in handy for Obama
I doubt Joe Biden would ever endorse Obama, that would shock me if he did.

Obama practically claimed Victory, how stupid, he is behind in an average of the polls in Iowa and the Des Moines Register is being questioned by many for the manner in which it was taken, but he is behind anyway even if you do take that one into consideration. Stupid people- this man is a light weight and he won't win.

I cannot wait to laugh my ass off on Friday morning about Obama and his premature victory claim.
Hilary is a winner and she WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT CLINTON - Mrs. President you are great and you will
help us protect our nation. No muslins, no Louis Faracon, No Barack Obama, Just Christians(all but extreme bible beaters and disingenuous Huckabee) and qualified Americans in our White House. Senator Clinton we love you and support you. I am caucusing for you and my family and co-workers are too.

Concerned Citizen, Sioux City, IA (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 8:59 PM)

The only rise and shine, Obama is going to get is the one on his eye should he win the democratic nomination from the Republican party. First, they will hit him with 70's show theme anti-marijuana ads set in a basement with three stoners, a couch, and a bong. The first stoner will say “Hey Dude, Obama is one of us.” The second stoner will say, “Yeah man, he inhaled not like Clinton!” The third stoner (a well endowed college age girl with an “Obama Girl” T-Shirt will proclaim, “Bong Hits for Obama!!!” Pick the tag line for the Republican candidate. For Guiliani it will be: “Say no to drugs and Obama. Vote for Rudy Guiliani, in the first year of his administration at NYC, arrests of marijuana increased from 750 the year before to over 59,000.” For Huckabee: “Say no to drugs and Obama. Vote for Mike Huckabee, a good Christian who is opposed to drugs.” For Romney: “Say no to drugs and Obama. Vote for Mike Huckabee who wants America to turn away from drugs to a good family environment.” However, consider the 527s, whose tag line: “(insert name of state) Law Enfocement says no to drugs and Obama, vote for (name of Republican) candidate.

kwh,ca (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 9:03 PM)

Funny how you all think Dennis Kucinich is such a wonderful man and a class act when he backs your candidate, but would any of you have ever voted for him? No. Keep in mind that he announced in November that he wanted Ron Paul to be his Vice President. Did that make any of you want to give Ron Paul a second look? No. You all just love the extra endorsement and votes for Obama. This has nothing to do with Kucinich, so save your phony praise for him.

I will say that because it is impossible for him to throw his support to Ron Paul, as the voters have to be registered Republicans to vote for him, Dennis would have been forced to choose a Democrat, and at least he has the good sense not to endorse Hillary.

J (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 9:27 PM)

I'm beginning a "If Obama gets the nomination, Draft Bloomberg" campaign. Let me know if you want to join.

Chuck, Chicago, IL (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 10:11 PM)

I think this is essentially an endorsement of Obama. I don't think that Kucinich could actually make it to the nomination. His policy might be too far to the left for most people.

I would love to see Kucinich debate Ron Paul to see who claims to follow the constitution more. That would be great to laugh at.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 10:45 PM)

Andrew, New York: '...I'd likely forecast Clinton endorsements from the other three lower-tier candidates....'

Sorry, Andrew...
Why would Biden, Dodd or Richardson endorse Hillary ?
Do you think THEY consider her 'EXPERIENCED' ?
Maybe not, huh ?

If Obama takes Iowa by 7%, that might induce lower tier candidates to endorse him

If he wins Iowa and takes NH with the buzz Iowa gives him, you might see some of these candidates endorsing Obama

I don't think other candidates consider Hillary 'experienced' or 'ready to lead'...

You have to be a Clinton cultist to think that ...

Ibama '08
Integrity, Honesty, Real Reform

Sierra, SF (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 10:55 PM)

I could just puke. What was Dennis thinking?

Kira, Annapolis, MD (Sent Tuesday, January 01, 2008 11:32 PM)

I have a ton of respect for Kucinich and this reaffirms his incredible integrity and courage. I hope he runs again next election, he is doing the right thing pulling for Obama. Hillary is a horror. Don't confuse her with Bill, they aren't the same.

Daniel K, Tacoma, WA (Sent Wednesday, January 02, 2008 1:35 AM)

Those of us in Illinois who live outside of Chicago are saddled with two big-government senators -- Obama and Durbin -- who are both political hacks selected by the Chicago Democrat machine. Stealing the election for JFK was nothing compared to what they've dumped on us with these two. If you love a pure socialist who believes that the federal government should control every corner of your life, then Obama is definitely your candidate. Most everyone knows that Kucinich is on the lunatic fringe, but not enough know that Obama is right there with him. Once you get past his considerable oratory skills, you discover that there is no "there" there. Listen carefully to the specifics of his plans for our country. Sleep well, America. You'll need all the rest you can get if this guy ever takes over the government.

Owl Creek Observer (Sent Wednesday, January 02, 2008 5:45 AM)

While I appreciate that Kucinich is giving a nod for Obama, I can't help but shed a tear for my hope that Dennis would be our man in the White House. I pray that we are not as malleable as big $$ thinks we are, that we find our center and make the correct choice. If for no other reason, give Kucinich the votes to pass in the primary so that we may be allowed to finally hear what has been too long kept from us.

wanda oreilly (Sent Wednesday, January 02, 2008 6:29 AM)

Next >>

SEND A COMMENT

PLEASE READ: All comments must be approved before appearing in the thread; time and space constraints prevent all comments from appearing. We will only approve comments that are directly related to the blog, use appropriate language and are not attacking the comments of others.

Message (please, no HTML tags. Web addresses will be hyperlinked):

Your name, city and state (John Doe, Seattle, Wash.):

Your e-mail address (jdoe@msnbc.com):

Your website (it's okay if you don't have one):

Remember me? (We'll keep it private) Remember me?

TRACKBACKS

Trackbacks are links to weblogs that reference this post. Like comments, trackbacks do not appear until approved by us. The trackback URL for this post is: http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/trackback.aspx?PostID=542614