Democrats work to line up support at Maine caucuses

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Sunday, February 1, 2004

Democrats work to line up support at Maine caucuses
http://www.ecola.com/go/?f=&r=me&u=www.kjonline.com

By TED COHEN, Portland Press Herald Writer

The preparation for the Maine caucuses comes amid several polls showing Kerry as the front-runner. Dean has been trying to reclaim momentum since his losses in Iowa and New Hampshire. He told the editorial board of the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram last week by phone that the campaign changed after Iowa. He had been well ahead in the polls, but has been sinking since the Iowa caucuses Jan. 19.

Gov. John Baldacci said Saturday that several candidates have asked for his endorsement, but he has yet to publicly back a candidate. "I'm thinking of doing it before the caucuses," he said in a phone interview from Bangor.

Baldacci's two sisters are working for Kerry, but the governor wouldn't reveal whether he'll break ranks. "I'll give you a rain check," he teased.

Maine sends 35 delegates to the Democratic National Convention. A total of 2,161 are needed to clinch the nomination.

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1. John was in a bad car accident today

http://www.bangornews.com/editorialnews/article.cfm?ID=416639&

But at last reports he is okay.