Super delegate Cardoza endorses Clinton

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Rep. Dennis Cardoza, a Democratic Party super delegate, said in Modesto on Wednesday he'll cast his convention vote for Hillary Clinton.

In an interview with editors and reporters at The Bee, Cardoza said that while he admires Barack Obama, he committed to Clinton long ago.

"It's my intention to vote for her," he said. "I think Mr. Obama is a very inspirational leader. I just believe Ms. Clinton has the best set of experiences to do the job."

U.S. Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Calif.

Elections 2008: Continuing coverage

Cardoza, from Merced, represents the 18th Congressional District, which includes Merced County and parts of San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Madera and Fresno counties.

Cardoza said he wants to see the most capable person as president, and he believes Clinton is better suited for that.

"She tends to do the right thing when nobody's watching," he said, which to him is a good gauge of a politician's character.

A candidate needs a combination of 2,024 delegates and super delegates. Obama (1,406) holds a lead over Clinton (1,249), according to The Associated Press. But with neither seemingly able to wrap up a victory simply on delegates, which are tied to primaries and caucuses, the nod from a super delegate, a prominent party member or elected official becomes that much more important.

Asked if the heated contest between Clinton and Obama could help Republican John McCain win in November, Cardoza said he was surprised at the polarization among Democrats but that he expected their nominee to prevail.

"The country is so desperately ready for change," he said. "They desperately do not like the direction Mr. Bush has taken the country, especially in the second term."

Cardoza also said he thought the Democrats had an opportunity to more many seats in Congress and boost majorities in both houses.