Obama Gains Traction With Dems in Red States

Barack Obama is better suited than Hillary Clinton to carry red states, say Democratic officeholders in traditionally Republican-friendly locales. It’s no coincidence that Obama recently picked up major endorsements in Arizona, Missouri, Nebraska, and South Dakota, Politico reports. Democrats who’ve overcome partisan odds say they think Obama’s more likely to carry their states.

Clinton has her own red-state nods—including big support from Nebraska, Indiana, and Ohio—and backers note her popularity among upstate New York Republicans. But sources worry about her perceived divisiveness and point to Obama’s ability to reach independents. Janet Napolitano and Claire McCaskill have endorsed Obama, which may help him overcome Clinton’s edge among women. (More Barack Obama stories.)