Sen. Barack Obama makes remarks during news conference following a tour of the RMI Titanium Company, Monday, Feb. 18, 2008, in Youngstown, Ohio. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
by John McCormick, updated
NILES, Ohio – Sen. Barack Obama said today that he should have given credit to his friend, Deval Patrick, when he used language very similar to some previously spoken by the Massachusetts governor in 2006.
“I was on the stump, and, you know, he had suggested that we use these lines,” Obama said at a news conference a few minutes ago. “I thought they were good lines. I’m sure I should have [given him credit], didn’t this time.”
Obama became a bit defensive when asked by a reporter whether his words were his own.
“Now hold on a second. I mean, look, I’ve written two books. Wrote most of my speeches,” he said. “So, I think putting aside the question you just raised in terms of whether my words are my own, I think that would be carrying it too far. Deval and I do trade ideas all the time, and, you know, he’s occasionally used lines of mine. I, at a [fundraising] dinner in Wisconsin, used some words of his. And, you know, I would add that I know Sen. Clinton on occasion has used words of mine as well.”
Obama said he frequently gives credit to others for ideas or language he has gotten from others. “I’m happy to give Deval credit, as I give to a lot of people for spurring all kinds of ideas,” he said.
Obama downplayed the matter and said it is something most voters likely do not care about. “I really don’t think this is too big a deal,” he said.
David Axelrod, Obama’s top adviser, has also done work for Patrick.
Asked who was the better speaker, himself or Patrick, who is also known as a powerful speaker, Obama demurred. “I’ll let you guys judge that,” he said.
During his 20-minute news conference, Obama also discussed a private meeting he had yesterday with former nomination rival John Edwards about a possible endorsement.
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“It was a terrific meeting,” he said. “There wasn’t any conclusion to the meeting…I think he is still mulling things over. I don’t think there is anything imminent.”
Obama said he told Edwards that he wanted him “deeply involved in whatever we do.” But he also seemed to somewhat downplay the value of such an endorsement.
“John still has an enormous following. I think he has a lot of credibility, and so we would love to have his support,” Obama said. “But right now, I think what’s most important is for to make sure that I’m getting out and talking to voters. You know, we may be getting to the stage of the campaign where endorsements are helpful, but what’s most helpful ultimately is that … the people have a sense that I will be fighting for them in the White House. That my priorities are their priorities. If they know that, then endorsements probably will have less sway.”