Ohio Valley Politics

Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones is speaking out about her support for Hillary Clinton over at the new Washington Post site “The Root“.

Here’s an excerpt:

Many people do not understand what it means to truly support a candidate. It is more than a bumper sticker, or a yard sign, or even attending a campaign event. By supporting a candidate, you are making a commitment to that candidate. I made that commitment to Hillary to support her through thick and thin, not to be a fair-weather friend only to leave her when the going gets tough.

I have spent over 26 years in public office working for the people of Ohio and working within the Democratic Party. I have gone door-to-door handing out pamphlets for candidates, stayed up late making phone calls and raising money for candidates - including Barack Obama’s Senate campaign through the Congressional Black Caucus PAC. After 26 years in public office, I would hope that my constituents would respect my judgment and my choice to support Hillary Rodham Clinton, just as I respect their decision to support the candidate of their choice.

In politics all you have is your word. And I have never been one to fold when the cards are not being played in my favor. True integrity is measured when the times get tough. There is no doubt that Hillary’s campaign is facing tough times, but I made a commitment to her, and I will support her all the way.

I respect her decision to continue her personal support of Hillary Clinton, but as a super-delegate she should respect the votes of her district. She said “In politics all you have is your word”, and she gave her word to represent her district.