Democrats head to Indianola for event

Seven of the Democratic presidential candidates will share a stage with former President Bill Clinton in Indianola today. Iowa Democratic Party chairman Gordon Fischer says up to five-thousand Democrats are expected. Fischer says the event will have a “charm and excitement” unlike any other event because of Clinton’s presence. But Fischer discounts the idea the candidates will be overshadowed by Clinton. Fischer says there’ll be “two halves” to the event. The first half will feature the candidates — Carol Moseley Braun, Howard Dean, John Edwards, Dick Gephardt, Bob Graham, John Kerry and Dennis Kucinich. Fischer says the other half of the “double bill” will feature Clinton as the kicker. Fischer says the candidates will have a chance to win over undecided voters who’ll be at the event.Fischer says the race is “wide open” and “very, very fluid.” He says polls show even those Iowans who’ve made up their minds could be convinced to change or switch allegiance to another candidate. This afternoon’s event will be held on the balloon grounds in Indianola. It’s the annual steak-fry fundraiser Senator Tom Harkin holds every fall.