Who's got her back?

A startling ally is calling on Senator Clinton to resist suggestions that she consider abandoning the presidential race: Ralph Nader, the independent presidential candidate who arguably cost Al Gore the presidency in 2000.

Nader has released a statement reacting to comments by Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) suggesting an apparently insurmountable lead by Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.):

"Senator Clinton:

"Just read where Senator Patrick Leahy is calling on you to drop out of the Presidential race. Believe me.

I know something about this. Here’s my advice: Don’t listen to people when they tell you not to run anymore. That’s just political bigotry.

"Listen to your own inner citizen First Amendment voice. This is America. Just like every other citizen, you have a right to run. Whenever you like. For as long as you like.

"It’s up to you, Hillary. Just tell them — It’s democracy. Get used to it.

"Yours truly, Ralph Nader"

Mike Allen is chief White House correspondent for Politico.