In addition to winning the prized endorsement of the Des Moines Register earlier today, Hillary Clinton has also won key recent state endorsements, including those of Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski, Maine Governor John Baldacci, and Iowa Representative Leonard Boswell.
The Oregon governor had this to say:
"At a critical time in our history, Hillary Clinton has the strength and experience to restore hope and opportunity to working Americans and deliver the change America needs," Kulongoski said. "No one is better equipped to repair the damage of the last seven years and repair our standing in the world."
And Hillary returned the praise:
"Ted has devoted his life to serving the people of Oregon with integrity and distinction," Clinton said. "I'm honored to have the support of such a fantastic champion for working people, and I'm delighted that he will lead our efforts in Oregon."
On the other side of the country, the Maine governor's endorsement included this quote:
"It will take a leader with Hillary's strength and experience to bring the change that America needs," Governor Baldacci said. "She will be ready to lead on her first day in office."
"Our country faces enormous challenges. We need a President who can deliver on health care, who understands the world's complexities and who has the strength, character and experience to lead our nation. Hillary Clinton is the best person for that very tough job."
To which Hillary replied:
"I’m honored to have John’s support, and I look forward to working together to bring our message of change across Maine and America."
In Iowa, Representative Boswell stated:
"Our next leader must have the vision and the know-how to make our country energy independent, bring healthcare to the uninsured and end the war in Iraq. We need someone with the strength and experience to take on the toughest challenges. We need someone who's got a lifetime record of getting results. I know just the person: my friend, Hillary Clinton."
And added this:
"The country cannot afford for the Democrats to lose another election. There’s too much at stake. She’s the most qualified candidate and has the best chance at winning back the White House."
In reply, Hillary gave her thanks for the endorsement:
"I'm honored and thrilled to have Congressman Boswell’s support, As the longest serving Iowa Democratic Member of the House, he understands what is most important to Iowans and their families. We share many of the same values and goals for our country; such as restoring America’s standing around the world, ending the war in Iraq and ensuring that every American has health care."