Oregon Public Broadcasting

Some of Oregon’s top Democrats have split over whom they support for President – much as voters in New Hampshire did Tuesday night.

Governor Ted Kulongoski spent three days last month campaigning in Iowa for New York Senator Hillary Clinton.

Now, state treasurer Randall Edwards and state schools’ superintendent Susan Castillo have announced their support for Clinton’s top rival, Illinois Senator Barack Obama.

Castillo says she’s impressed with Obama’s calls for national unity.

Susan Castillo:  “I’m just very excited about someone who’s so passionately talking about bringing our country together. We really need that kind of leadership right now in our country. It is so important. And that is what he’s all about and represents.”

Kulongoski highlighted Senator Clinton’s experience when he made his endorsement.

Democratic House Speaker Jeff Merkley and Senate President Pro-Tem, Margaret Carter, have endorsed the third place finisher in New Hampshire, former senator, John Edwards.

It’s not clear what difference the endorsements from Oregon leaders might make. Our May primary is among the last in the country, so voters here may find the Democratic nomination essentially wrapped up by then.