Gephardt says Clinton is most ready to be president

Calling her the candidate who is most “ready to lead from Day One,” former House Majority Leader Dick Gephardt (D-Mo.) endorsed Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton’s (D-N.Y.) presidential campaign on Thursday.

{mosads}“I think our country is in as much difficulty as it’s ever been in a number of important areas,” Gephardt said on a conference call. “And if we ever needed a president who, from Day One, because of their experience and depth of character, could grapple with these problems, it is now.”

Gephardt said his comments are not meant to disparage other candidates.

He said he will be an economic adviser to Clinton’s campaign, but he downplayed the impact his endorsement and help would have on her fortunes.

“I have no illusions about being any factor in this campaign,” said Gephardt, who called himself a “has-been politician.”

Gephardt, who served in the House for 14 terms before retiring three years ago, ran for president in 2004 and 1988 — winning the Iowa Caucus in his first bid.