Democratic Leaders Urge Superdelegates To Declare Choice By Friday

Four prominent Democratic leaders have released a statement urging the remaining undeclared superdelegates to back a presidential candidate by the end of the week.

"We have come to the end of an exciting primary and caucus process – the voters have spoken," write Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Democratic Governors Association Chairman Joe Manchin and Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean.

"Democrats must now turn our full attention to the general election," they continue. "To that end, we are urging all remaining uncommitted super delegates to make their decisions known by Friday of this week so that our party can stand united and begin our march toward reversing the eight years of failed Bush/McCain policies that have weakened our country."

After last night, Barack Obama has the delegates he needs to claim the mantle of presumptive nominee. The statement released this morning appears to be an attempt to leave the superdelegate saga behind and help create a unified front for the battle with John McCain.

"We once again congratulate all of the candidates for their leadership and dedication to providing this country with a New Direction," the party leaders conclude. "We look forward to working with them and with all Democrats to win the White House, congressional seats and state capitals so we can deliver the change the American people deserve and demand."