Dunce Dem Dodd goes with loser Lamont--Lieberman Disappointed
November 3, 2006
Associated Press HARTFORD, Conn. -- Sen. Joe Lieberman said Friday his independent re-election bid has created some bruised feelings with his colleague and friend, Sen. Christopher Dodd, who is backing Lieberman's rival, Ned Lamont.
"Look, I understand that people are playing by a partisan political playbook," Lieberman said at a campaign stop. "You know why it is disappointing in Chris' case? Because we're friends. But life will go on. We'll work together because that's our job, to work together for the people of Connecticut."
After losing the August Democratic primary to Lamont, Lieberman defied party leaders and ran as an independent to hang onto his seat. The move rankled Democrats who questioned the three-term senator's party loyalty.
Many Democrats like Dodd who had backed Lieberman in the primary, have endorsed Lamont, the party's nominee. Dodd, who has served in the Senate for 18 years with Lieberman, has campaigned with Lamont and has appeared in a TV ad endorsing the senator's anti-war challenger.
"As people said to me, 'How could people have said on Monday of one week in August that you were one of the great senators in American history, Tuesday, you lose the primary by three-and-a-half points, and Wednesday they support your opponent?"' said Lieberman.
Dodd's spokeswoman declined comment. During a Friday TV appearance, Dodd said he expected to cooperate with Lieberman if he wins a fourth term.
"Well, we'll work together," Dodd said on MSNBC. "Joe and I have been friends for a long time. And if he's elected next Tuesday, we'll work together again."
Despite his independent bid, Lieberman has said he will caucus with the Democrats if he wins re-election Tuesday. He would be in line to become chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs panel if the Democrats regain control of the Senate on Nov. 7.
Dodd's endorsement of Lamont could pay political dividends if he launches a 2008 White House bid. Lamont has won support from many liberals, who play a key role in Democratic presidential primaries. Dodd has visited some important primary states this year.
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