JOHNSTOWN, PA - Congressman John P. Murtha (D-PA) offered the following endorsement today for President of the United States:

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"I've known Senator Clinton for fifteen years.  I know that she continually reaches out for opinions and ideas not just from our nation's leaders, but from all Americans.

"In ten months, President Bush will leave office.  Our country is worse off today than when he took office over seven years ago.

"Senator Clinton is the candidate that will forge a consensus on health care, education, the economy, and the war in Iraq. 

"This week, she highlighted the policy failures in Iraq and addressed the real challenges we face in regards to rebuilding our military, restoring our readiness and fully preparing our armed forces to meet and deter future threats.  I know that Senator Clinton has a similar position that I have in regards to the war in Iraq.

"Her experience and careful consideration of these issues convinced me that she is best qualified to lead our nation and to bring credibility back to the White House.

"Therefore, I whole-heartedly endorse her candidacy and recommend to all Pennsylvanians, and all Americans, that they vote for Senator Hillary Clinton for President of the United States."