Arne Carlson, Former GOP Governor, Endorses Obama

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Arne Carlson, a former Republican governor in Minnesota, has endorsed Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

Carlson said Thursday that the Illinois senator's stances on the Iraq war, the economy and green energy goals won him over. Carlson, who served from 1991 to 1998, also cited recent comments by GOP Congresswoman Michele Bachmann questioning whether politicians have "pro-America or anti-America views."

"Regardless of our party, regardless of our partisan inclinations, there is no interest more compelling than the interest in the well-being of the United States," Carlson said at a gathering of Obama supporters at the state Capitol.

Carlson added, "He has laid out for this nation a vision for a national purpose."

Carlson was considered a moderate Republican during his two terms in office. This isn't the first Democrat he has backed for political office. He said he considers himself "a Republican maverick."

Minnesota's current governor, Tim Pawlenty, is a strong supporter of GOP hopeful John McCain. Carlson said he wasn't approached about endorsing McCain or asked to remain neutral.

Comments

[Airforce-1]

The McTanic is getting lighter are there enough Life jackets left.

[dloitz]

I think this is a start of New Republication party. One not based on just social issues. One that can actually debate with the Left and help shape policy not by fear or division but with thoughtful discourse.

I am a democrat, but that doesn't mean I don't want people to all think like me, having different approaches to governing....is a great way to keep this country honest.

I am glad Obama is attracting from both sides of the aisle.

Obama/Biden '08 and the USA!

[usabroad]

Not that McCain could knock anybody who did go back on his word if asked to remain neutral! Two years ago, when incumbent AZ Republican State Senator Slade Mead was challenged in the primaries by the candidate approved by the Mormon church and far right conservatives, he met with McCain. McCain clearly had this Pres run in mind at the time and Mead knew that he might at best have to live with a neutral McCain. And McCain guaranteed Mead his neutrality, in person, to his face, etc....until he didn't ...and went back on his word to endorse the far right candidate over the incumbent center Republican candidate.

[ilovemycat]

You would think after being dissed for an unprepared & underqualified beauty queen, Pawlenty would backfire on McCain and vote for Obama.

[sherbug]

No, all the rats will go down with the ship.

[PlagueRat]

Don't insult rats!

[edgeways]

Is funny... I live in MN so have some perspective. Carlson is almost the epitome of the idea of a "Northern Democrat". He is/was more liberal than plenty of Southern Republicans, indeed, despite his support for McCain the same could almost be said for Pawlenty

[KenHussein]

I live there too. I always thought that he was a Democrat.

[Dystopic]

What is his position on meat raffles?

[edgeways]

you know, I screwed up my post... it is suppose to be "Northern Republican" and "Southern Democrat"... good grief.

[marthlois]

All of you courageous Republicans are winning my heart:) Thank you so much.

[emmaspeaks]

Welcome.

I'm starting to loose count...it looks like the GOP is falling apart.

[LetMeUnderstandThis]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=07_lWmjPvCg

[RusStyles]

Impressive! Thank you sir..Your decision--like Gen Powell's--will influence more common-sense Repubs to put "Country first"...

[pilgrim7]

Carlson is a true maverick.

[TuffCookie]

awesome. now THAT is a maverick for ya! thanks Arne!

[bluecatz]

bless you mr carlson for your support and for your comments on bachmann.

[miocid31]

Welcome aboard, we have an open door policy for those who come off the once straight talk express...