A Few Points About the Register Endorsement

Full Clinton editorial here.

Full McCain editorial here.

(1) It's a major boost for Clinton. And for her campaign staff, who've need some good news. Many Democrats in Iowa unquestionably consult the Register's editorial voice before deciding whom to vote for.

(2) The Register endorses Clinton's theme: inspiration is nice, but in order to get things done, you need experience.

In the Senate, she has earned a reputation as a workhorse who does not seek the limelight. She honed knowledge of defense on the Senate Armed Services Committee. She has proactively served rural and urban New York and worked in the national interest, strengthening the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
Clinton is tough. Tested by rough politics and personal trials, she’s demonstrated strength, resolve and resilience.

Can she inspire the nation? Clinton is still criticized in some quarters as being too guarded and calculating. (As president, when she makes a mistake, she should just say so.)
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Indeed, Obama, her chief rival, inspired our imaginations. But it was Clinton who inspired our confidence. Each time we met, she impressed us with her knowledge and her competence.

(3) The Obama campaign really wanted this endorsement, although they were not terribly sanguine about their chances to get it.

(4) The endorsement of McCain is a surprise, given that he has all but written off Iowa. Still -- it says something about the Register's view of the rest of the field. (The Register's endorsement won't have too much impact with Republicans).

"Yet, for all their accomplishments on smaller stages, none can offer the tested leadership, in matters foreign and domestic, of Sen. John McCain of Arizona. McCain is most ready to lead America in a complex and dangerous world and to rebuild trust at home and abroad by inspiring confidence in his leadership. In an era of instant celebrity, we sometimes forget the real heroes in our midst."