Harkin (D-Ia) opens bid with vow to fight gridlock

[Omaha Steve]

Published Tuesday | March 11, 2008

CUMMING, Iowa (AP) — U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin on Monday formally opened his bid for a fifth term as a "proud Democrat" and said he would use his seniority in Congress to lessen the partisan gridlock in Washington that has frustrated voters.



Sen. Tom Harkin talks with Marilyn Miller of Des Moines after formally announcing his bid for a fifth term in the U.S. Senate. The Iowa Democrat kicked off his campaign Monday in his hometown of Cumming.

Lacking a big-name Republican opponent and with his Democratic base firmly united, Harkin opened his campaign by reaching out to independents and Republicans.

"The changes we need in our country are going to require us to work together," Harkin said.

"I've had my share of partisan battles in the past. I'm proud of the fact that I've worked together with Republicans to get things done, and that's what we're going to have to do in the future."

Harkin said that given Iowa's history, he expected a tough race.

"Regardless of who my opponent finally will be, I know they're going to do everything they can to throw the kitchen sink at me," Harkin said. "Iowa is a very competitive state. It's always been a competitive state."


FULL story at link.