Two Powerful Unions Endorse Howard Dean

Two powerful unions formally endorsed presidential hopeful Howard Dean on Wednesday, further cementing his status as Democratic front-runner by nearly every measure - organization, momentum and money.

Dean's political coup came in a rare but expected joint announcement from the presidents of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and the Service Employees International Union, in a carnival-like event that overflowed with hundreds of flag-waving, cheering union members.

"This man of Vermont has the best chance to beat Bush," said Gerald McEntee, president of AFSCME, which counts 1.5 million members. "As governor, he made the tough choices necessary to move that state forward. He will do no less for our country."