By Clifford L. Williams,
Globe City Editor

Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson presided over the Black Elected Officials and Faith Based Leaders of the East Bay’s monthly meeting last week, during which attendees discussed the platforms of the three Democratic presidential candidates.
   California Assemblyman Sandré Swanson spoke highly of Hillary Clinton and justified his reason for supporting her bid for the presidency. “Hillary Clinton meets my criteria. I believe Mrs. Clinton is the best choice to be our next president because of her experience and proven leadership,” he said.
   “We need to give her our support because she has demonstrated that she really cares about us [and] our future, and she’s committed. Based on her and her husband’s track record of the positive things they’ve done for Oakland, we need to ensure she becomes the nation’s next president. This is going to be a very historical moment, and we need to keep our eye on the prize.”

    Oakland City Councilwoman Desley Brooks vehemently objected to the tactics being used to discredit the Obama campaign, saying, “It is very disappointing that Obama’s rivals have had to resort to cheap shots and smear tactics in their attacks on the Illinois senator’s bid for the presidency. One can ill afford to address personal relationships in a campaign.
   “I’m very, very upset and disappointed at the way the Clinton campaign has set themselves up to be the candidate of choice while at the same time degrading and discrediting Barack Obama,” said Brooks. “These disgusting tactics need to stop, and we need to judge the candidates based on their merit and the issues they bring forth to the American people, and not by dredging up negative and false information about each other.
   “I’m so mad and tired about hearing how Hillary is the ‘people’s’ choice and she has ‘what it takes to lead this country,’ while at the same time, insulting and smearing the Obama campaign,” she said.
    Tony West, a spokesperson for Obama’s campaign and a partner in the law firm of Morrison & Foerster, said Obama’s “Time for Change” campaign is right for America because he has the “political courage” to make things happen. “Barack Obama’s message to all of America is one of commitment and dedication,” said West.
   “He wants to put America back on track again and ensure that the nation can provide the things America needs such as affordable healthcare, adequate housing and a quality education.”
    Ying Lee, a former legislative aide to Barbara Lee and a Berkeley Library trustee, discussed the Edwards campaign. “At first, I was reluctant and unsure why I should support John Edwards,” said Lee. “After listening closely to his message of hope for America and how we must change the direction we are going in order to make this country be what it should and can be, I realized that Edwards is clearly the best person to be our next president.”
    The officials and clergy have not yet made a decision as to which candidate they will endorse.

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