Daniel Strauss - Ralph Nader: White House pressured Democrats not to challenge Obama
January 10, 2012 Ralph Nader is accusing the White House of applying political pressure to stop Democrats who were considering a primary challenge against the president.
The consumer activist and former presidential candidate, who had been searching for a prominent Democrat to challenge President Obama, told The Hill he has given up his effort.
“I hate to say but it’s over,” Nader told The Hill.
Last year, Nader said there was an almost 100 percent chance Obama would face a primary challenge.
Nader explained that he had planned to organize a slate of six candidates to primary Obama on a variety of issues. The plan didn’t work out though, Nader said, partially blaming those who are working to get Obama reelected.
“The minute any name was mentioned ... they made the calls,” Nader said of the White House’s efforts. “They jumped like a cat.”
Nader said it’s understandable why pressure from the Obama administration would deter liberal candidates.
“The retaliation is incredible,” Nader said.
For example, he said if former Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) had opted to run against Obama, his future in the Democratic Party would be finished.
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