Shortly after moving to Phoenix five years ago, it was my great privilege to meet Hugh Downs. Over the past five years, I have had the opportunity to spend time with Hugh Downs and his incredible wife Ruth. I know few people, of any age, with Hugh’s wisdom, integrity, and deep knowledge of so many topics. For my parents and people in my generation, Hugh has been associated with a professionalism and neutrality that earned him the respect of his viewers and his fellow journalists.
Unfortunately in a campaign year, which has been fraught with increasingly nasty and deceptive campaign tactics, even those whose integrity should be beyond reproach can be hurt. Recently Hugh found that his name has become associated with positions that he does not support and never endorsed in yet another blatant attempt to mislead voters. Tuesday, Hugh set the record straight at a news conference in Phoenix, Arizona his home state and that of John McCain with his endorsement of Obama and Biden.
Below you will find the press release from the press conference which contains Hughs' statement of endorsement.
Veteran TV journalist Hugh Downs to endorse Barack Obama
Former ABC News 20/20 anchor Hugh Downs plans to endorse Sen. Barack Obama for president on Tuesday. The Obama campaign says Downs, who has never endorsed a presidential candidate, plans to announce his support Tuesday afternoon during a press conference at Arizona State University.
Downs, in a statement, called Obama a true statesman who has the ability to create change.
"At a time when our economy is faltering and our health care system remains in crisis, we cannot afford four more years of the same failed economic policies," said Downs, who is 87 and an Arizona resident.
"Senator Obama has solid, realistic plans to strengthen our economy, provide health care to every American and create jobs across this great nation. Arizonans, like all Americans, need the change that Barack Obama will bring to Washington."
His announcement comes on the heels of Obama opening an Arizona office last week near Roosevelt and 6th streets in downtown Phoenix.
-- Anne Ryman
Tuesday, September 16, 2008 at 11:35 AM
Here is the link:
http://www.azcentral.com/...
This was a big step for Hugh. He has spent his entire professional life keeping his politics and personal opinions to himself. But, this year with so much at stake he felt it was his duty to speak out, not only about the tactics used by those who would try to trade on his name, but to endorse Barack Obama, the candidate he feels will provide us with true change.
Please help me show Hugh Downs our appreciation and support!