Iowa Democrats Hear Six Presidential Candidates at J & J Dinner

Potential caucus-goers had a chance to hear candidates (in order in which they spoke) John Edwards, Bill Richardson, Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and Barack Obama in Des Moines' Veterans Auditorium at the annual Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner. Those who spent $150 per person sat on the floor while almost 8,000 enthusiastic attendees sat in the raised seating with others who shared their candidate preference. At times, the noise was deafening.

Governor Chet Culver and Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge made short speeches, but the attention was clearly on Nancy Pelosi, who served as master of ceremonies for the presidential candidates' speeches, and the six candidates. Pelosi introduced each as "the next president of the United States," and was masterful at introductions that showed no hint of favoritism. The candidates did not use the annual forum to announce initiatives; they emphasized their priorities and worked to increase momentum among their most faithful Iowa followers.

John Edwards' themes were similar to those in his 'heroes' commercial, which began airing in Iowa in the past week (his first major media buy). He stressed the needs of working families and reiterated his promise that if there is not universal health coverage for all Americans by July 2009 he will work to the fullest extent of his power as president to cancel coverage for himself and members of Congress. He was sharply critical of the situation in Iraq and talked about the need to reestablish strong relations with the many countries who have been put off by the go-it-alone philosophy of President Bush. He pledged that, "We will not ignore the poor, devastate our environment, or ship American jobs overseas. We do not believe in allowing lobbyists to write the laws of the U.S., nor do we believe we are above the law. We believe in the promise of America."

John Edwards waits to be introduced to his supporters prior to the Jefferson and Jackson Dinner in Des Moines, November 10, 2007.

Credit: Elaine L. Orr

Copyright: Elaine L. Orr