In campaign news, Senator Ted Kennedy officially announced his endorsement of Barack Obama Monday during a rally attended by thousands in Washington. The Massachusetts Senator compared Obama to his late brother, John F. Kennedy.

Sen. Kennedy: “My friends, I ask you to join in this historical journey to have the courage to choose change. It’s time again for a new generation. It is time for Barack Obama.”

Obama thanked Kennedy for backing his campaign.

Sen. Obama: “I know what your support means. I know what a cherished place the Kennedy family holds in the hearts of the American people.”

Senator Obama also picked up an endorsement Monday from the Nobel Prize-winning author Toni Morrison.