Gore backs Obama for presidency

By Jonathan Beale
BBC News, Washington

Al Gore urges Democrats to unite behind Obama

Former US Vice-President Al Gore has made his debut on the presidential election campaign by endorsing the Democratic candidate, Barack Obama.

In a speech at a rally in Detroit, Michigan, Mr Gore urged all Democrats to unite behind the party's ticket.

He said Mr Obama was the man to bring about change after "eight years of incompetence, neglect and failure".

Mr Gore, the beaten Democratic candidate in 2000, avoided taking sides throughout the primary season.

But now that Hillary Clinton has suspended her campaign, Mr Gore has added his weight to Mr Obama.

'We need change'

The impact of Mr Gore's support for the Illinois senator would have been more significant had he done it before the Democratic nomination contest was decided.

But he chose to remain on the sidelines throughout the primaries as Mr Obama battled it out with Mrs Clinton.

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Nevertheless, Mr Gore remains a powerful voice in the Democratic Party and his appearance on the stage with Mr Obama will help unite Democrats for the general election in November.

He was former President Bill Clinton's deputy and almost won the White House when he ran against President George W Bush in 2000.

His reputation has been enhanced in recent years by leading an international campaign on climate change.

Addressing the rally at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit, Mr Gore likened Mr Obama to former President John F Kennedy as a young leader who inspired.

"After eight years of incompetence, neglect and failure, we need change," he said. "After eight years when our constitution has been dishonoured and disrespected, we need changes."

Mr Gore also praised his stance in opposing the Iraq war.

Mr Obama said this endorsement meant a lot because Mr Gore was a visionary not just for the Democrats, but for the country as a whole.