To: bentway who wrote (50535 ) 9/29/2004 1:09:52 PM From: stockman_scott Respond to of 81568 Jesse Jackson Joins Kerry-Edwards on the Road to Victory -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To: National Desk and Political Reporter Contact: Devona Dolliole of Kerry-Edwards 2004, 202-464-2800, Web: johnkerry.com WASHINGTON, Sept. 29 /U.S. Newswire/ -- Today the Kerry-Edwards campaign announced that Reverend Jesse Jackson will join the campaign as Senior Advisor. "I am very happy that Reverend Jackson has agreed to join us in our efforts to get America back on track," said Democratic Presidential candidate John Kerry. "His legacy as one of our most powerful civil rights leaders and his lifetime commitment to improving the lives of all Americans has inspired Senator Edwards and me for many years. Together, we will send a clear message to all Americans that this campaign is truly dedicated to taking America in a new direction." Reverend Jackson, a long-time civil rights activist, former presidential candidate, and founder and current president of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, will play multiple roles in the campaign. In addition to advising Senator Kerry on issues, message and strategy, Rev. Jackson will serve as campaign spokesperson, traveling to key battleground states to participate in events and rallies and work to energize Democratic voters in key states. "We stand on the threshold of the most important election of our lifetimes," said Reverend Jackson. "I look forward to working with John Kerry and John Edwards to let people know in a loud and clear voice that hope is alive and help is on the way." Reverend Jackson will also be working to protect the voting rights of Americans throughout the country. He called it one of the campaign's highest priorities. "This is no ordinary election - this is a fight for the heart and soul of America," said Jackson. "And, we will not stand idly by while African American and minority voters are intimidated, turned away from the polls or effectively disenfranchised in any way. Senator Kerry and Senator Edwards share my concerns on this crucial issue and we will be working hard to secure the voting rights of all Americans." "For over forty years, Jesse Jackson has brought his commitment to equality, opportunity and progress to our most vulnerable citizens," said Kerry. "His passion for justice is second to none. John Edwards and I are proud to have him as part of this campaign and we look forward to the weeks ahead as we travel the country together with a message of hope for all Americans."usnewswire.com -0- /© 2004 U.S. Newswire 202-347-2770/