Updated: Menendez Gets Vague on Lamont

by: Juan Melli

Thu Oct 19, 2006 at 02:11:16 PM EDT

"Joe Lieberman is a good friend and an excellent Senator who has served his country with dignity. He ran a hard-fought campaign, but the voters of Connecticut have spoken and I support their decision. I fully support Ned Lamont's candidacy. Americans are fed up with George Bush's status quo policy in Iraq and last night they spoke loudly and clearly that they want leaders who will take the country in a new direction..."

And both candidates were asked about Lieberman’s re-election bid. Mr. Mendenez, who appeared first, said he supports Mr. Lieberman’s run as an independent candidate. “I wish him well,” he said, “and hope he returns.”

He then warned the crowd that Mr. Kean, who was to appear second, would try to tell the crowd that Mr. Menendez supports Mr. Lamont.

Update: Statement from the Menendez campaign:

“Bob Menendez endorsed Ned Lamont after his primary victory and that endorsement stands today.  Last night, he was asked about Joe Lieberman during a forum and he restated his admiration for Senator Lieberman, as he has always done, and said that he would look forward to serving with him again should he be re-elected.  After the forum, he was asked by a reporter what he meant by that and reiterated that his endorsement has not changed.  His endorsement of Ned Lamont has not changed -- period.”