I like the mayor, but it doesn't mean I'll endorse his candidacy, ... fine Democratic nominee.

I am not here to criticize the mayor, who I consider a friend,

I'm confident that, were I mayor, I would do some things differently than he has. But I think there's a world of difference between him and his immediate predecessor.

But when there's a Democratic nominee we very much look forward to debating all the issues.

It doesn't mean that you endorse it. It doesn't mean you're being insensitive. It means you're a journalist and you're telling the story.

The Democratic Party will have a nominee, and we will force Sen. Lott to answer for his record in Washington.