'Stockton Record' Endorses Obama -- First Democrat It Has Backed Since FDR

By: E&P STaff As in 2004, E&P will be the place to look for a complete record of newspaper endorsements for president. As before, we ask readers to send any and all to us, care of: gmitchell@editorandpublisher.com

Only a handful have come down so far. Here's the latest we know of: From the Stockton Record in California.

It headlined it: "Choice is clear: Obama for president."

Amazing sidebar: In an explanatory note, the editors explains that Obama is the first Democrat for president the paper has endorsed in 72 -- since FDR ran for re-election in 1936.

Here is an excerpt.
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He has demonstrated time and again he can think on his feet. More importantly, he has demonstrated he will think things through, seek advice and actually listen to it.

Obama is a gifted speaker. But in addition to his smarts and energy, possibly his greatest gift is his ability to inspire.

For eight years, American politics has been marked by smears, fears and greed. For too long, we've practiced partisanship in Washington, not politics. The result is a cynicism every bit as deep as that which infected the nation when Richard Nixon was shamed from office and when Bill Clinton brought shame to the office.

This must end, but John McCain can't do it. He can't inspire, nor can he really break from a past that is breaking this nation....

While praiseworthy for putting the first woman on a major-party presidential ticket since Geraldine Ferraro in 1984, his selection of Palin as a running mate was appalling. The first-term governor is clearly not experienced enough to serve as vice president or president if required. Her lack of knowledge is being covered up by keeping her away from questioning reporters and doing interviews only with those considered friendly to her views.