"In a further blow to Senator Hillary Clinton's faltering campaign, former US presidential candidate, John Edwards has endorsed Barack Obama's White House bid, a move that is likely to dramatically boost the frontrunner's stakes among unionised workers.

Mr Edwards, a former Senator from North Carolina and the vice-presidential candidate in 2004, had been backed by several major unions, including the steelworkers' union. He also won respect in poorer communities for his unstinting efforts to tackle poverty in America.

Until he pulled out of the Democratic primary race in January, Senator Edwards had been attracting a very solid share of blue-collar males.

It is among this demographic where Senator Obama has struggled, leading Senator Clinton to crow that she is the stronger candidate because she wins the lion's share of these votes and can deliver swing states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia and Michigan.

Mr Edwards appeared with Senator Obama at a rally at Grand Rapids, Michigan - one of those key states which has suffered because of the downturn in US manufacturing.

To the strains of Bruce Springsteen, Mr Obama introduced him as "one of the greatest leaders of the Democratic Party".

Senator Edwards said he had decided to endorse Senator obama because "Democrat voters have made their choice - and so have I".

"There is one man who knows that it is time for a bold leader; there is one man who knows it's time to bring about bold change; there is one man who knows its time to create one America. That man is Barack Obama," he said.

"No matter who your family is, no matter the colour of your skin ... that one America will be achieved under president Barack Obama starting in January 2009!" he said.

Before announcing his decision, he lavished praise on Senator Clinton, saying her fierce campaign had helped the Democrats.

"She cares deeply about working men and women ... she is a woman who is made of steel. She is a leader in this country, not because of her husband but because she has stood up for causes she believed in," he said

"I am so grateful,"Senator Obama said. "I want to thank John for everything he has done to make us one America."

Mr Edwards would bring an impeccable network of contacts as well as 19 pledged delegates to Senator Obama's side of the ledger.

He is now likely to have a clear majority of pledged delegates after next Tuesday's primary."

Anne Davies is the Herald's Washington Correspondent


Please fill me in. This seems like a strong endorsement indeed. Is it what Obama needs to swing many of those in the blue collar group that he has apparently so far failed to do?

Do you think Edwards will be his VP or has Edwards previosuly ruled this out. From what little i have seen of Edwards I must say he appeared a genuine man! It must be another kick in the teeth for Hillary!

BABRAM

Sen. Edwards is well suited for the veep, although Gov. Bill Richardson also is a good practical choice. People may not agree with Edwards on the issues, but he always presents himself professionally and is respected. It was not Edward's fault that the 2004 ticket w/Kerry was unsuccessful. Let's see how much longer Hillary keeps up the divisive charades.

tomder55

I think it puts Obama over the edge. Edwards does have committed delegates who are now likely to go to Obama. Edwards would also be a pretty good choice for Veep because Obama has so alienated the white working class with his snobbery that some good ole fashion populist pablum and us vs.them rhetoric is the tonic he needs ....and Edwards and his 2 Americas tour will help him there.Besides every ticket needs a good slip and fall lawyer on it's staff when it comes time to challenge ballot results.

speechlesstx

Is that how Obama was able to campaign in 57 states so far?

tomder55

nah that was Obama "losing bearings".

speechlesstx

This will benefit Obama, he brings those delegates and quite a few hard core followers along. I can't see him running for VP twice in a row but you never know. Besides, Jay Leno said Obama promised him if elected, "he would offer Edwards a Cabinet position as secretary of shampoo and highlighting."

tomder55

yup that is what he is qualified for .However it is more likely he has visions of being the national Atticus Finch . So he will lobby for AG.

BABRAM

Psssst...McCain is searching for the next Admiral Stockdale.

tomder55

and I know just the man for the job ........Wesley Clark ......oh wait.....he was going to be Evita's VP . .......next Admiral Stockdale?????? I bet Jim Webb is ready and willing .

speechlesstx

I see Murtha playing that role well, "Who am I? Why am I here?"