New York City: The Bronx has Hillary's Back

Clinton Finds Support In The Bronx, But Can't Take Black Voters For Granted

NY1

March 12, 2007

The leading Democrat running for president was in the Bronx Wednesday. Despite what some think, there was no shortage of supporters. Meanwhile the frontrunner for the GOP nomination picked up an endorsement that could prove very helpful. NY1 Political reporter Rita Nissan filed the following report.

Senator Hillary Clinton has her supporters in the Bronx and at least one prominent critic.

“I will go so far as to say being from Bronx County, Clinton is certainly taking the African American vote for granted,” said Bronx Councilwoman Helen Foster.

At an appearance in the borough, Clinton wouldn't get into Foster's comment.

“I'm going to let people speak for themselves,” she said.

The African American vote is crucial for Clinton. But, blacks are a natural constituency for her top rival for the Democratic nomination, Barack Obama. Still many in the Bronx say they will vote for Clinton.

“If there was voting today for president, I would be right there,” said one African-American woman from the Bronx.

“I think that's a good idea for a woman to be running for president,” added another.

Clinton promises she'll be a tough president. She responded strongly to Halliburton's decision to move to Dubai. Vice President Dick Cheney once ran the oil company.

“I think it is disgraceful that American companies are more than happy to try to get no-bid contracts like Halliburton has and then turn around and say, but you know, we are not going to stay with our Chief Executive Officer or the President of our company in the United States anymore,” said Clinton.

On the Republican side, another New Yorker running for president picked up a key endorsement. Louisiana Senator David Vitter says he's backing former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani despite the former mayor's liberal views on social issues.

Vitter's backing could help Giuliani win over Republicans, skeptical because he's for abortion, gun control and gay rights.

– Rita Nissan