Bonior backs Obama
Posted: Thursday, May 08, 2008 12:18 PM by Mark Murray
Filed Under:
2008, Edwards, Obama
From NBC/NJ's Athena Jones
In a conference call with reporters, former Edwards campaign manager David Bonior announced his decision to endorse Obama -- citing the Illinois senator's ability to bring change and to inspire, to defend himself against attacks, his dedication in helping working families, and his opposition to the war in Iraq.
Bonior called 2008 a "watershed year in politics" and said this could be a big year for change, like 1932, 1960, or 1980. "The American people want a new direction and want some fundamental change -- big change I think," he said.
In addition, Bonior said Edwards' campaign had been about putting people first and that Obama had proven he could bring the necessary change to Washington and would improve the lives of working families by standing up to Wall Street lobbyists and special interests.
The former Michigan congressman also cited Obama's work as a community organizer in Chicago. He said the Illinois senator had inspired a movement of people, brought them into politics, and into the system. "He's the first candidate that has brought a movement with him," Bonior said, adding that this election could be "transformational" and "history-making." He also said Obama had shown courage in opposing the war in Iraq.
Bonior waited until now to endorse because he was "waiting for Sen. Obama to show me the fight that I wanted to see because it's gonna be a difficult" campaign with McCain.
He said he had spoken recently with Edwards, but that the former North Carolina senator would make his thoughts known when he was ready to do so, and that he was not prepared to discuss their conversation further.
When asked about Obama's difficulties winning over working-class voters, Bonior said the candidate had improved with that group as he moved from Ohio to Pennsylvania to North Carolina and Indiana. Bonior also cited his support for the Employee Free Choice Act and on matters like a living wage and workers' compensation programs. "I'm confident we're gonna have a champion for workers when Sen. Obama's president of the United States," he said.
Obama backer Tom Daschle, the former Senate majority leader from South Dakota, hosted the call and began it by saying Tuesday was a critical day in the race and Clinton did not get the big wins she needed. "We feel very good about the momentum and the unique pivotal moment we find ourselves in now," he said.
