Kucinich sees California as 'springboard to the presidency'

RYAN PEARSON, Associated Press Writer Saturday, June 14, 2003

(06-14) 15:29 PDT LOS ANGELES (AP) --

Calling California his "springboard to the presidency," Rep. Dennis Kucinich is hoping intense early campaigning in the voter-rich state's urban areas can boost his bid for a 2004 presidential nomination.

The Ohio Democrat has already visited the state 10 times, staying as long as eight days on fund-raising trips through the left-leaning Bay Area, said Southern California campaign chair Lila Garrett.

Kucinich swore off corporate donations and relies heavily on relatively small fund-raisers such as a breakfast Saturday with about 40 supporters and community activists, where he waved his labor union card in calling for a "workers' White House."

"California is a natural place for me to build a political base," Kucinich said. "The crowds are large, the contributions are here. And it's a state where progressive politics is always at the top of the agenda."

The 56-year-old Congressman won applause with his continued strident criticism of the Bush administration and what he called the "bogus war" with Iraq. He outlined a plan to scrutinize military spending and move federal dollars from the Pentagon to schools.

The agenda got cautious praise from Southern California activists and politicians.

"You've got to create these bright lines to give people a choice," said Democratic Rep. Xavier Becerra, who hosted Saturday's session at restaurant in the multi-ethnic neighborhood of Echo Park. "Do we want Republican lite or do we want a real progressive Democrat?"

Los Angeles resident Marv Tavlin said Kucinich "has a lot of passion."

"But he also has an almost insurmountable task money-wise," said the 88-year-old after a breakfast of melon, croissants and coffee. Tavlin said he didn't contribute at the reception, originally planned as a $100-a-plate fund-raiser.

Considered a long shot among nine Democrats vying for the nomination, Kucinich reported raising nearly $34,000 in California in the year's first quarter, with a total of just over $173,000 raised. Six other candidates raised more money overall.

Garrett said Kucinich is hoping to pick up over $65,000 on his two-day swing through the heavily Democratic state, home to top fund-raising destinations of Hollywood and the Silicon Valley. Kucinich was wrapping up his California weekend in Santa Rosa on Sunday.

Becerra said he has not endorsed Kucinich but lauded the candidate's impassioned approach and California focus.

"He understands if he makes some waves in the critical states -- Iowa, New Hampshire, California -- things could get interesting," Becerra said.