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A big get for Obama

James Forsyth

Friday, 21st March 2008

The last fortnight has not been good for Barack Obama, the whole row over his pastor’s racially divisive remarks has threatened his entire political identity. But the math still favours him becoming the Democratic nominee and the decision not to hold do-overs in Florida and Michigan will make it hard for Hillary to overtake him in the popular vote, which she would need to do if she is going to have a case to make to the super delegates who will ultimately decide the nomination.

It is, perhaps, a reflection of that reality that Bill Richardson, who dropped out after finishing a distant fourth in both the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary, has decided to endorse Obama for president. The support of the country’s only Hispanic governor should help Obama make inroads among Hispanics who have so far remained solidly in the Clinton camp.

Richardson’s decision is a blow to the Clintons. Bill has not been shy about suggesting that Richardson, who Clinton appointed to two cabinet-level jobs, should gratefully row in behind Hillary. The worry for the Clinton camp is that Richardson could be the start of a string of influential Democrats getting on board with Obama.