Endorsements can make a difference...

...in several ways. When the endorsers hold the status of PLEO, or Super, delegates at the Democratic National Convention, the difference is one step further toward the nomination. John Kerry is up to 82 Party Leader & Elected Official Delegates with these fresh endorsements:

US Rep. Kendrick Meek, FLA

Governor Tom Vilsack, Iowa

Former DNC Chair Don Fowler, SC

US Rep. Baron Hill, Indiana

Sometimes the endorser is a critical opinion leader in an important city, state or region. That applies to all of the above, and to new Kerry endorser Mayor Francis Slay of St. Louis, as well.

Sometimes an endorsement can influence opinion, marshall resources and raise money all in one impressive package, as is the case with the Michigan Education Association, which endorsed Kerry Friday. When the membership of the 157,000 strong teacher's union polled its members, fully 88% expressed support for Kerry.

They all mean something different, but they're all useful and appreciated. And there are many more to come.