Kerry, Biden and others woo firefighters

[JI7]

<Two Democratic U.S. Senators all but asked one of the state’s most powerful unions for their support today in the first day of what will be several of a politically impressive convention of firefighters.

U.S. Sens. John Kerry (D-Mass.) and Joe Biden (D-Del.) each laid out their differences with President Bush and attempted to take the maximum credit for bills that provided more money for firefighters in the past.

With just 2,000 members in a traditionally non-union state, the New Hampshire chapter of the International Association of Fire Fighters is not the biggest union in the state, but it’s dedication and savvy has made it arguably the most powerful.

Others addressing the group Monday alone were Gov. John Lynch (D-Hopkinton), U.S. Rep. Jeb Bradley (R-Wolfeboro), and State Sen. David Gottesman (D-Nashua).

Their power, if ever questioned, was proven in the fall of 2003. They had backed Kerry in the Democratic primary and he was fading quickly to irrelevance with the rise of Howard Dean. But it was at that very time, when many were writing him off, that the firefighters suggest they hold chili feeds in firehouses around the state.

It was a new Kerry at these chili feeds and he came back to win Iowa and then New Hampshire and then the nomination.

I think the firefighters were critical to my being the nominee,” Kerry said. “They helped me to create a climate for listening and helped to change the dynamics here so I am eternally grateful to them.”

Biden recalled that he has had many unfortunate experiences where he has relied on firefighters including a car wreck where they saved his son and his house on fire.

“I want your support, but the truth is, either way you have me,” Biden said.

Earlier Bradley told the audience that he was constantly proud to stand alongside them and that he gladly replaces his Boston Red Sox hat for his firefighter hat whenever he runs.>

http://www.politicsnh.com/?q=node/238