By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry supported party unity in Missouri as his cross-country train trip stopped in Jefferson City Thursday.
Kerry spoke to several thousand people outside the state Capitol building. He praised Governor Holden and Claire McCaskill, who defeated him at the primary.
Kerry said Holden displays graciousness, courage a sense of priorities. He said McCaskill has a good sense of direction.
Kerry, running mate John Edwards, McCaskill and Holden then raised their hands together, symbolizing victory.
Kerry's speech was similar to the one he made at the Democratic National Convention. But he also pledged to support Missouri's military operations, including the Stealth bomber at Whiteman Air Force Base.
The Democrats' train then headed further west and arrived in the wee hours Friday morning in Kansas City, hours late. They have a full day of campaigning on tap before heading west from Kansas City Friday night.