The Obama campaign is downplaying Michelle Obama’s comments yesterday that “for the first time in my adult lifetime, I am really proud of my country. And not just because Barack has done well, but because I think people are hungry for change.”

Some believe this comment means Mrs. Obama has not felt pride for her country. What is the Obama campaign saying?

Traveling Press Secretary Jen Psaki sent the following statement:

“Of course Michelle Obama is proud of her country, which is why she and Barack Obama talk constantly about how their story wouldn’t be possible in any other nation on Earth. What she meant is that she’s really proud at this moment because for the first time in a long time, thousands of Americans who’ve never participated in politics before are coming out in record numbers to build a grassroots movement for change.”

What do you think?

Senator John Edwards phoned Senator Barack Obama yesterday when Obama was in El Dorado, Kansas. According to Obama staffers, Edwards told Obama he was likely to drop out of the race, but had not yet made a decision. They two also talked about poverty, an issue for which Edwards has championed during his campaign for the presidency.

Staffers confirmed that Edwards phoned Obama again this morning prior to the candidate’s Denver rally to inform him that he was, in fact, dropping out. The two did not discuss an endorsement, but staffers say obviously Obama would like Edwards’ support going forward.

“I congratulated him on a great race and what a gracious way to end by going back to New Orleans,” Obama said to a reporter before talking to an overflow crowd at his Denver rally. When asked what impact Edwards’ departure would have on the race, Obama answered, “I don’t know.”

Here’s what Obama said about Edwards to a crowd of about 9,000 in Denver: