Monday, April 21, 2008

Kennedy: Obama inspires people, works tirelessly

By CHRIS A. COUROGEN

Sen. Edward M. Kennedy has heard the comparisons between Barack Obama and his brothers. He does not disagree with those who say the senator from Illinois has the same ability to inspire people that President John F. Kennedy and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy possessed.

"I see Barack having a similar kind of appeal," the senior Democratic senator from Massachusetts said. "He is challenging young and old alike to be a part of the solution to the problems."

Kennedy was in Harrisburg to deliver a brief motivational speech to Obama campaign volunteers as the race for the state's presidential primary entered the stretch run.

"This whole campaign is about rejecting the quick, easy, slick answer," Kennedy said. "H.L. Mencken once said, 'For every complex problem there is a simple, easy answer and it is wrong.' Barack Obama is spelling out the complex answers to complex problems. Americans are ready for that kind of answer."

Kennedy promised the entire Kennedy family, which is split between Obama and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, will support whoever wins the Democratic nomination.

"The difference between the Democrats and the Republican nominee is dramatic," he said. "This country needs change."

But he made it clear Obama is his preference. The seed of that opinion was formed when Obama joined the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, which Kennedy chairs

"I found [Obama] a tireless worker committed to these issues that make a difference for working families and the middle class," Kennedy said.

His decision to back Obama was cemented after hearing the candidate speak after the Iowa caucuses. Kennedy said he heard Obama with a "clear eloquence, call to bring the country together."

"I said this looks like a candidate for me," he said.

Kennedy hopes the voters of Pennsylvania see the same qualities.

"It is still an uphill battle here," Kennedy said. "But I think people are ready to give him their support."

CHRIS A. COUROGEN: 255-8112 or ccourogen@patriot-news.com