Diverse Appeal

This week, Barack Obama received a number of Congressional endorsements. What's particularly telling is that they cover such a wide spectrum of individuals - from old-school California liberals to political mavericks to Midwestern moderates - who represent diverse segments of the electorate. The common appeal is represented in their statements.

Rep. George Miller (Chairman of the House Education and Labor Committee): "I've watched both campaign and I know both candidates and I believe Obama offers us an opportunity to truly change the way we do business in Washington."

Former Sen. Bill Bradley (Former New Jersey Senator, Presidential Candidate, and NBA Hall of Famer): "Barack Obama is building a broad new coalition that brings together Democrats, independents and Republicans by once again making idealism a central focus of our politics. Because of his enormous appeal to Americans of all ages and backgrounds, Obama is the candidate best positioned to win in November. ... His movement for change could create a new era of American politics — truly a new American story."

Sen. Kent Conrad (Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee): "He is somebody that brings people together. He unites rather than divides, and I think that‘s very important for the country right now... He has the unusual ability to inspire and to lift people to be better. ... That is a rare skill, and I think something that‘s much needed."

Sen. Tim Johnson (Senior Senator from South Dakota): “He is bipartisan and insists on bridging the difference between parties.”

Sen. John Kerry (2004 Democratic Presidential Candidate): "Since the birth of our nation change has been won by young presidents and young leaders who have shown that experience is not defined by time in Washington and years in office it is defined by wisdom and instinct and vision ... The only charge that rings false is the one that tells you not to hope for a better America. Don't let anyone tell you to accept the downsizing of the American dream."