Isle Obama backer views win as key

Brian Schatz, Hawaii campaign spokesman for presidential candidate Barack Obama, called yesterday's win in South Carolina a "landmark victory" that changed the way people view the presidential race.

"He is a candidate who appeals to everyone across all of the lines that have traditionally divided us," Schatz said. "That's the antidote to the last seven years of George Bush scaring and dividing us."

With both Hillary Clinton and Obama claiming victories in two states, Schatz said: "This is now going to be a long-term contest for delegates, and Hawaii will be in the middle of the battle.

"People who support Barack Obama need to know that they've got to show up (at the Hawaii Democratic caucuses) on Feb. 19."

A spokeswoman for the Clinton campaign in Hawaii could not be reached for comment.