The recent endorsement of Senator Barack Obama’s presidential bid by Massachusetts Senator Edward Kennedy and his niece Caroline Kennedy has sent shockwaves through the Democratic party. The move by prominent members of the Kennedy family has sparked speculation about the possible impact on Democratic voters in the Super Tuesday primaries and beyond. Irish-American newspapers are paying close attention to this story for many reasons. In addition to the enduring interest in the Kennedy family there is also Bill Clinton’s popularity among Irish-Americans stemming from his deep involvement in the Northern Ireland peace process, and Barack Obama’s Irish heritage.

Peter McDermott, associate editor of the Irish Echo, speaks with Feet in Two Worlds executive producer John Rudolph about Irish-American reaction to the endorsement and the comparisons being drawn between Senator Obama and the late President John F. Kennedy. Peter also talks about Irish-American views of Senator John McCain, a Republican presidential candidate with Irish roots.

[audio:http://www.xrew.com/joceimgs/FI2W/fi2w_mcdermott.mp3]

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