Oregonians Say Obama Victory Shows His Support Isn't Limited By Race

OBAMA  ELECTIONS 

By Ethan Lindsey

Portland, OR  May 20, 2008 11:38 p.m.

Barack Obama won a clear victory in Oregon Tuesday, defeating Democratic rival Hillary Clinton.

The result gives Obama the majority of the pledged delegates in the nomination fight.

Hundreds of Obama supporters in Portland cheered wildly when Obama was declared the victor the moment the polls closed.

Former Governor Barbara Roberts is an Obama supporter, despite her previous political ties to Clinton.

Roberts says her decision to endorse Obama was  more difficult because he was running against a woman. Roberts says the country is still dealing with prejudice.

Barbara Roberts: “Of course there's some sexism, there's also some racism. In this country we have not had a woman president. We have not had an African-American president. And there are people who are not sure they feel comfortable with that.”

Obama says he delivered his victory speech from Iowa, instead of Oregon, because of Iowa's potential as a swing state in the fall.

But political analysts say Oregon could also go red or blue.

Oregonians twice elected Ronald Reagan.

Al Gore won the state in 2000 but by less than 7000 votes.

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