Kerry Endorses Webb In Democratic Primary

Sen. John F. Kerry (D-Mass.) endorsed James Webb yesterday in Virginia's Democratic Senate contest, adding his name to the list of national party leaders who think Webb has the best chance of defeating Republican Sen. George Allen.

It is unusual for senators to take sides in party primaries, but Kerry, the former presidential nominee, became the 10th current or former senator to support Webb, who faces Harris Miller in an increasingly testy primary June 13.

"We need more people of courage in the Senate, and that means we need leaders like Jim who have served honorably in the military and in the government serving the country they love," Kerry said in a news release from the Webb campaign. "He has the best chance to beat George Allen," Kerry added.

"I am honored and grateful for his endorsement today," Webb said in the release. "It is very meaningful for me to have so many military veterans stand with me during this process."

Kerry announced the endorsement separately in an even stronger statement, mentioning that Webb's son will soon be deployed to Iraq.

"I want to know that after November the father of Marine Lance Corporal Jimmy Webb will be in the Senate thinking and leading on the best course for American troops," Kerry said. "I dare any Republican to question this man's courage, character, or moral authority on questions of war and peace."

The support of Democratic leaders is especially important for Webb, who served in the Reagan administration as secretary of the Navy, has been markedly critical of the past two Democratic presidents and is better known for his support of Republicans.

The Miller campaign was quick to point that out. "John Kerry's a great guy," said Miller spokeswoman Taylor West. "But much like the others, he doesn't know Virginia." She added: "This doesn't explain why Jim Webb endorsed George Bush or George Allen in 2000."

Kerry and Webb are decorated Vietnam veterans, but they would hardly be described as close friends. Webb has said he refused for 20 years to shake hands with Kerry because of Kerry's outspoken criticism of the war after his return from Vietnam and his alignment with the antiwar movement.

But Webb went to Kerry's defense after an advocacy group called the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth questioned Kerry's bravery and the legitimacy of the combat medals he received. Webb also said he voted for Kerry in 2004.

The two met privately for several hours three weeks ago and talked again Thursday night. Kerry acknowledged in his statement that "neither of us would deny that we've had our differences over the years."

Staff writer Michael D. Shear contributed to this report.