Edwards and Giuliani Step Aside

By Connect Mason Convergence Director Lars Garvey Laing-Peterson

Notes from the Political Frontline

John Edwards has decided it is “time… to step aside.” In New Orleans, where the candidate began his campaign in January 2006, Edwards told his supporters that he was leaving the race “so that history can blaze its path.” It is unknown at the moment whether Edwards will put his support behind either Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton, but he told the crowd, “They have both pledged to me — and more importantly, through me to America — that they will make ending poverty central to their campaign for the presidency.”

Rudy Giuliani has conceded his placement in the Republic primary race and endorsed John McCain. At Giuliani’s press conference, he spoke of his “respect” for McCain and how he declined a negative ad campaign against his “friend and fellow Republican” John McCain. Whether Giuliani’s support will add more momentum to McCain’s campaign or indeed hurt his hopes for the GOP nomination – Giuliani’s pro-choice stance could distance some undecided voters – will be seen on Super Tuesday.

The Republican candidates will debate tonight at 8:00 pm Eastern at the Reagan Library in California. Mitt Romney is expected to use Giuliani’s less conservative stance to try and regain some traction after the loss in Florida.

CNN’s Wolf Blitzer is scheduled to talk with California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger before the debate and inquire whether the former actor will announce his support of any candidate tonight.