John Lewis Endorses Clinton

from msnbc's first read:

...the Clinton camp pick[ed] up a key endorsement from civil-rights leader Rep. John Lewis (D). In a statement posted on the Clinton campaign's Web site, Lewis says, “I have looked at all the candidates, and I believe that Hillary Clinton is the best prepared to lead this country at a time when we are in desperate need of strong leadership. She will restore a greater sense of community in America, and reclaim our standing in the world.”

That Lewis would endorse Clinton over Obama -- the first African-American with a legitimate chance of winning the Dem nomination -- is a blow to the Illinois senator's campaign.

and an update:

Rep. John Lewis (D), a leader in the Civil Rights movement, endorsed Hillary Clinton today here at Paschal's Restaurant. "I believe Hillary Clinton will be a strong leader," he said. "I am convinced that with Hillary Clinton as president, no one will be left out or left behind."

"I am so grateful and I feel so blessed and profoundly honored to be standing here with one of the people I admire most," Clinton said in accepting the endorsement. She called Lewis a hero and said she saw her campaign as a continuation of his life's work.

The New York senator also took the opportunity the congratulate Al Gore on his Nobel Peace prize win.

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