Ritter throws support behind Obama

DENVER ” Superdelegate Gov. Bill Ritter threw his support behind Barack Obama late Tuesday shortly after the presidential candidate declared himself the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee.

Ritter says Obama’s sense of independence and purpose make him appealing to Coloradans and Westerners. Ritter also called Obama the best person to help Americans “achieve their God-given potential.”

Ritter’s announcement followed results in the last two primaries in the Democratic contest. New York Sen. Hillary Clinton was projected the winner in South Dakota, while Obama was expected to win Montana.

Sen. Ken Salazar remains among Colorado’s three remaining uncommitted Democratic superdelegates.

Colorado voters overwhelmingly chose Obama over Clinton in February’s state caucuses.