Short note by an outside observer and (new) supporter of the Obama (GObama!) campaign.
Obviously the endorsement of Obama by Ted Kennedy is very good news for the campaign. It's a huge endorsement and, I believe as others have noted, carries a lot of weight in the party and especially in the areas where Clinton has the greatest support (NE and California.) I was very happy to hear about the endorsement and the comparisons to JFK. I wasn't around to experience the Presidency of JFK but when listening to or seeing reactions to Obama speaking I get a feeling that he truly does inspire people. I can't recall really feeling that way before. Not with such enthusiasm anyway.
What's the problem then? Unfortunately, I think, much of the discussion about the endorsement has focused on the Clinton campaign losing the endorsement. This I believe detracts from the message that Obama is a great, inspiring leader and paints a picture of a fractured party with Bill and Teddy at odds over campaign tactics.
All the stories about Ted getting "angry" with Bill and then giving his support to Obama just muddy the waters and detract from the "positivity" message that is supposed to be emanating from the Obama campaign. It even makes it seem like Hillary deserved the endorsement if it just weren't for her lambasting husband! I think it's time for Obama supporters to take the high road. At least on this one point -- Keep the endorsement news about Obama rather HRC.
That's my two cents. Cheers! And GOBAMA!