Some Clark backers upset by endorsement

Retired Gen. Wesley Clark’s endorsement of Democratic congressional candidate Steve Filson on Monday has caused ripples within the ranks of former Clark volunteers who support Filson’s primary opponent, Jerry McNerney.

McNerney ran as a last-minute, write-in Democratic candidate in 2004 against Rep. Richard Pombo (R), helped largely by efforts of volunteers from East Bay for Clark. The grassroots organization’s 900 members worked on Clark’s unsuccessful bid for the 2004 Democratic presidential nomination.

"Those that I have spoken with range from outraged to confused to bewildered that this has happened," said Claire Nelson, a former fundraiser and organizer with East Bay for Clark. "I was very, very much in the Wes Clark camp. He was the most wonderful man until this happened."

Other former Clark volunteers say the general’s backing is a savvy approach in the uphill bid to replace Pombo.

"I’m sure this is a pragmatic decision that is consistent with the course that Clark has taken over the last year," said Clark volunteer Joe Rubio, referring to Clark’s nationwide efforts to boost Democratic veterans running for office. Filson served 20 years as a naval aviator.

"We have taken literally dozens of factors into consideration," Clark spokesman Erick Mullen said of Filson’s endorsement. "We respect [Clark volunteers’] hard work and insights and look forward to doing all we can together. As to this congressional race, they should follow their conscience."