Culver: Iowa won't play second fiddle

[Omaha Steve]

Source: Associated Press

Published Thursday | May 17, 2007
Culver: Iowa won't play second fiddle

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) - Democratic Gov. Chet Culver said Wednesday he wouldn't endorse a presidential candidate and is confident Iowa would remain the first stop in the nominating process.

In an interview, Culver said many campaigns seek his support, but his goal is to ensure that the state treats all contenders fairly.

"So many of these candidates have been helpful to me over the years, and I have personal relationships with most of them," Culver said. "I'd like to encourage people to participate in the caucuses and promote our state and talk about issues, but I don't believe at this time I'll get involved personally."

Culver's decision is in keeping with a tradition of sitting governors staying out of caucus campaigns.

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