Jul 10, 2008 7:38 pm US/Eastern
Big Apple Unity: Obama, Clinton Hand-In-Hand In NY
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
Presidential candidate Barack Obama shared the spotlight again with Senator Hillary Clinton on Thursday. The two are tying to raise money from New Yorkers, some for Obama's campaign and some to pay off Clinton's campaign debt.
Obama stood side-by-side with his former rival at a midtown fundraiser. Clinton made it clear she wants democrats to unite.
"I could not be prouder to have this opportunity in front of my friends to express my confidence in his candidacy and my committment of ensuring that he will take the oath of office come next January," said Clinton.
Obama went after much needed women voters at the Hilton.
"As the son, grandson and husband of a hard-working mother, I don't accept an America that makes women choose between their children and their careers," Obama said.
With the sight of Obama and Clinton on stage together at two Manhattan campaign events in as many days, Clinton supporters can't help but ponder a ticket with their names side by side.
"Personally, I think they would make a great team," said NYC resident Leslie Thompson.
"I think that it's great that they pulled together and they're doing what's best for the party and country," said NYC resident Paula Nailor.
Obama's obligation to help Clinton wipe out her campaign debt was clear at the end of Wednesday night's fundraiser at the Grand Hyatt. Obama walked off stage, the music already blaring, when he was reminded he forgot a key component of his speech, bringing him back on stage.
"Senator Clinton still has some debt," said Obama.
He asked the 1,000 people attending to donate to Clinton's campaign, helping to "unify the party."
Clinton reported more than $20 million in debt at the end of May, including $10 million in personal loans. She has until the end of August to raise money to pay herself back.
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