Sen. Byrd backs Obama

A week after Hillary Clinton won West Virginia in a landslide, Barack Obama Monday took one of the state's prized votes: Sen. Robert Byrd.

            "This Democratic primary campaign has been tough and competitive. I had no intention of involving myself in the Democratic campaign for President in the midst of

West Virginia

's primary election. But the stakes this November could not be higher," said Byrd, a super delegate.

            "After a great deal of thought, consideration and prayer over the situation in

Iraq

, I have decided that, as a superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention, I will cast my vote for Senator Barack Obama for President. Both Senators Clinton and Obama are extraordinary individuals, whose integrity, honor, love for this country and strong belief in our Constitution I deeply respect.

            "I believe that Barack Obama is a shining young statesman, who possesses the personal temperament and courage necessary to extricate our country from this costly misadventure in

Iraq

, and to lead our nation at this challenging time in history. Barack Obama is a noble-hearted patriot and humble Christian, and he has my full faith and support."