John Lewis -- And Why He Switched To Obama

[HCE SuiGeneris]

"The Georgia congressman, who had previously endorsed Clinton, says he wants 'to be on the side of the people."

http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-endorse28feb28,1,3290763.story
From the Associated Press
February 28, 2008

In a written statement, Lewis said the Illinois senator's campaign "represents the beginning of a new movement in American political history" and that he wants "to be on the side of the people."

"After taking some time for serious reflection on this issue, I have decided that when I cast my vote as a superdelegate at the Democratic convention, it is my duty . . . to express the will of the people," the statement said.

snip>

Clinton has frequently cited Lewis' support in trying to establish her credentials among minority voters, saying she saw her campaign as a continuation of his work.

But Lewis came under intense pressure to get behind Obama after his constituents supported the Illinois senator roughly 3 to 1 in Georgia's Feb. 5 primary, as did about 90% of black voters statewide, according to exit polls.

Obama's support among black voters nationwide mirrors Lewis' Georgia district.

His change of heart follows a similar move by Rep. David Scott, a black Democrat who represents a neighboring district.

More: http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-na-endorse28feb28,1,3290763.story