Women's Group Plans to Endorse Clinton

Democratic Presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., is greeted by union members prior to speaking at the Communications Workers of America (CWA) National Legislative-Political Conference in Washington, Tuesday, March 27, 2007. (AP Photo/Charles Dharapak) (Charles Dharapak - AP)

"She was really taken with him and thinks he has a fresh perspective on how to bring change to the country," Charles said.

Asked whether her former husband's decision to back Clinton had any bearing on Sheila Johnson's decision, Charles demurred.

"She's a woman who thinks for herself," Charles said.

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WASHINGTON (AP) _ Former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani is running ads on conservative talk radio shows in a direct appeal to the Republican voters who could determine the fate of his presidential campaign.

The 30-second spots are airing during Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity shows, popular broadcasts with the conservative base of the GOP. The campaign would not reveal the cost of the ad campaign but said the ads were running nationwide.

Giuliani is leading the Republican field in national polls of Republicans. But he is still viewed with apprehension by social conservatives over his past support for abortion rights, domestic partnership benefits for gay couples and gun-control measures.

The radio ad avoids those subjects.

"My campaign is about leadership and optimism," he says in the ad. "We need strong leadership to stay on offense in the war against terrorists. We need supply side policies and reduced government spending _ fiscal discipline _ to keep the economy growing."

The ad directs listeners to his new Web site, JoinRudy2008.com.

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CONCORD, N.H. (AP) _ One of Hillary Rodham Clinton's top supporters says if the Democrat wins the White House, he wants to be part of her team negotiating peace in the Middle East.