MSNBC Host on Hillary and Obama: It’s like We’re Rooting for Them All

On Monday, MSNBC’s Contessa Brewer discussed the recent meeting of 2008 Democratic presidential candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in Selma, Alabama. Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky reeled off all the racial and cultural firsts that the upcoming primaries will have, including Hispanic candidate Bill Richardson. MSNBC News Live host Brewer responded with perhaps a revealing comment:

Julie Roginsky: "Well, I think Hillary Clinton started out with a set of name recognition that nobody else in the Democratic field has. And I think as Barack Obama becomes more known, obviously it makes sense that he would- his name recognition and his numbers would go up. But I think what's important to note here is that this is a set of firsts, not just for the African-American community, but for women, for Hispanics and Bill Richardson. There are so many firsts in this Democratic primary that I think it's really a good time to be a Democrat."

Contessa Brewer: "It's sort of like we're all rooting for everybody all at once."

(Hat tip to eagle-eyed NB reader Gary Hall for catching the comment.)

A transcript of the brief exchange, which aired at 3:10pm on March 5, follows.

Contessa Brewer: "Hey, take a good look, because you probably won’t see this very often. Two Democratic presidential frontrunners and rivals together this weekend. They were commemorating a civil rights march in Selma, Alabama. Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama spoke at two different churches. And Senator Clinton brought a famous guest star, her husband. Democratic strategist Julie Roginsky and Republican strategist Joe Watkins are both here. Nice to see you both with me."

Joe Watkins: "Great to be with you, Contessa."

Julie Roginsky: "Nice to see you."

Brewer: "You know, it wasn't just a chance to celebrate civil rights. This was a real opportunity for Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama to reach out to potential voters. According to recent polls, Barack Obama is gaining ground, Hillary Clinton is losing ground. Julie, why do you think that is?"

Roginsky: "Well, I think Hillary Clinton started out with a set of name recognition that nobody else in the Democratic field has. And I think as Barack Obama becomes more known, obviously it makes sense that he would- his name recognition and his numbers would go up. But I think what's important to note here is that this is a set of firsts, not just for the African-American community, but for women, for Hispanics and Bill Richardson. There are so many firsts in this Democratic primary that I think it's really a good time to be a Democrat."

Brewer: "It's sort of like we're all rooting for everybody all at once."

Watkins: "Until we find out where people stand on issues."