WASHINGTON – A fund-raiser benefiting "Joseph Lieberman for President" has been scheduled for Jan. 19, further evidence that the Connecticut senator will seek the 2004 Democratic presidential nomination.
An invitation obtained by The Associated Press says Lieberman and his wife, Hadassah will appear at the $1,000-per-plate brunch being hosted by political donors Phyllis and Philip Margolius.
A top Lieberman adviser said that, barring an unexpected change of heart over the weekend, the 60-year-old lawmaker intends to announce his candidacy Monday at his high school in Stamford, Conn. A Lieberman spokesman declined to comment Friday night.
Fellow Sens. John Kerry of Massachusetts and John Edwards of North Carolina are seeking the Democratic nomination, as are Vermont Gov. Howard Dean and Rep. Dick Gephardt of Missouri. Also considering a White House bid are Sens. Bob Graham of Florida, Joseph Biden of Delaware and Christopher Dodd of Connecticut, former Sen. Gary Hart of Colorado and civil rights activist the Rev. Al Sharpton.
Lieberman was Al Gore's running mate in the 2000 presidential race. Lieberman said he would not to run against Gore, but was freed from the pledge when Gore decided not to enter the race last month.
Philip Margolius is a partner in a Washington law firm and president of the United Jewish Endowment Fund. He and his wife are frequent donors to congressional candidates and the Democratic party.
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