Clinton raises big money for Meek

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton usually stays out the fray during Democratic primaries. However, he’s made a few notable exceptions to support his wife and a handful of close friends: Rahm Emanuel, Terry McAuliffe, and FAMU’s own Kendrick Meek.

Last Friday, Clinton keynoted a $1,000 per plate Jacksonville fundraiser that placed $90,000 into Meek’s coffers. Earlier, Clinton headlined another hugely successful fundraising event in Miami that brought in $300,000 for the campaign.

Led by Steve Hildebrand, who served as deputy national campaign manager for then-U.S. Sen. Barack Obama’s White House run, Meek’s U.S. Senate bid continues to gain momentum. Meek already has endorsements from the Service Employees International Union in Florida and the United Teachers of Dade.

Meek’s early success prompted St. Petersburg Times Political Editor Adam C. Smith to ask on yesterday: “Is Kendrick Meek already on the verge of walking away with the Democratic nomination?”

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