Friday, June 02, 2006
Joe Guillen
Plain Dealer Reporter
A contingent of Cleveland- area black leaders publicly endorsed Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ted Strickland on Thursday. The group includes U.S. Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, whose previous indecision was conspicuous.
Strickland did not conceal his excitement over her support.
"This is the one I've been waiting for," he said, his arm around the congresswoman at a news conference in Arbor Park Village near Woodland Avenue.
Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and Warrensville Heights Mayor Marcia Fudge also spoke in favor of Strickland because, they said, he understands urban issues, such as education and economic development.
"We believe that Ohio needs a fighter," Tubbs Jones said, "someone who is willing to stand up on behalf of working folks."
The unified support of Strickland is a sign that issues important to black voters will be addressed in the governor's race, Tubbs Jones said.
"The endorsement of these trusted African-American leaders validates my candidacy," Strickland said.
There was speculation that Tubbs Jones was withholding her endorsement because a rift had developed between the two. Tubbs Jones was angered by rude comments that a couple of Strickland supporters made toward her and other black leaders in December.
Tubbs Jones on Thursday gave her own explanation: Her endorsement took time because she wanted to ensure that Strickland would support issues important to her constituents, including health care and better-paying jobs.
Strickland's stop in Cleveland was one of three similar events throughout the state. Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman and Dayton Mayor Rhine McLin also endorsed Strickland on Thursday.
The string of support followed recent discussions among the politicians about the needs of Ohio's cities and how Strickland can meet them as governor.
Plain Dealer Columbus Bureau Chief Sandy Theis contributed to this story.