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Oprah Winfrey's 20,000 steal a march on Hillary Clinton's presidential bid
Last updated at 16:12pm on 12.12.07Oprah Winfrey drew the biggest crowd for any presidential candidate at a rally in support of Hillary Clinton's main rival for the Democratic nomination.
The TV chat show queen pulled in 20,000 to hear her speak in support of black Illinois senator Barack Obama in Des Moines, Iowa.
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Oprah has made a strong political stance by publicly backing Barack Obama in his presidential bid with a rally to 20,000 people
The much-hyped appearance is expected to have dealt a shattering blow to Mrs Clinton in what is traditionally the first state to choose a Democratic candidate in the White House primaries.
Miss Winfrey, 53, told the crowd in Des Moines: "For the very first time in my life I feel compelled to stand up and speak out for the man who I believe has a new vision for America."
She first announced her support for Obama, 46, by staging a £2 million fund-raising gala at her home in California.
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Hillary Clinton roped in her daughter and mother for moral support in her campaign tour
Mrs Clinton responded at the weekend by having her mother Dorothy Rodham, 88, and daughter Chelsea, 27, join her on the stage at a series of rallies.
Until Miss Winfrey's intervention at the weekend, Mrs Clinton, Obama and former senator John Edwards were neck and neck in Iowa, which goes to the polls on January 3.
Reader views (2)
Oprah, I love you, but Obama and Clinton both scare me to death running for president. I am sorry, but despite everything you have said and done, I cannot with good conscience vote for Mr. Obama or Ms. Clinton.
Mr. Obama is very lucky to have you as his champion and I applaud your sincerity in backing him.
God Bless you and Bless our United States.
- Penny Curtis, Holden, MO
Never mind Dereck Obama, Oprah for president!
- Marianne, SW France
