EMILY's List backs Obama

Another of Hillary Clinton's most vocal supporters has fallen in line behind Barack Obama, on the eve of her formal endorsement of the presumptive Democratic nominee.

Adding her voice is Ellen R. Malcolm, president of EMILY's List, a political action committee that funds female candidates who support abortion rights. She was withering in her criticism of NARAL's national PAC when it endorsed Obama last month despite a long history with Clinton.

But in a statement issued today, Malcolm is far more conciliatory in pledging her group's support to Obama.

"At every turn in this long journey, Hillary Clinton has filled me with tremendous pride and honored all women with the courage, grace, and dignity of her historic campaign. Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton competed in every state, unleashing a tidal wave of enthusiasm and support. Now that the primaries have concluded, I wholeheartedly congratulate Sen. Barack Obama. He has inspired millions of Americans and shown that he is more than ready to take on Sen. John McCain," the statement says.

"While women still face serious hurdles in reaching the highest levels of elected office, Hillary has laid to rest any doubts about whether a woman has what it takes to run for president. She showed Americans and the world that she has the strength, intelligence, determination, and passion to handle the enormous responsibilities of the presidency, including those of commander-in-chief. Voters in every state and territory were drawn to Hillary’s message of progressive change, and they turned out in force. She emerges from this campaign an even more powerful national leader. And I know she will use that power to help Democrats, including Sen. Obama, win, and to make a profound difference on issues like health care reform, energy independence, and economic policy.

"I know that EMILY’s List members, like all Democrats, will be unified in our determination to undo the damage created by George W. Bush and the Republicans. I am confident that our party will come together to take the White House in November. And, once again, EMILY’s List will unleash the political power of women to help Democrats win at every level in 2008 so we can begin to rebuild a progressive America."