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Watson endorses Nagin
The Rev. Tom Watson, who was the top African-American challenger to incumbent Ray Nagin and one of the mayor's harshest critics during last month's primary, endorsed Nagin for the May 20 runoff this afternoon.
Watson, who received about 1 percent of the primary vote, constantly attacked Nagin, who is black, during the campaign. At one debate, Watson even accused the mayor of being responsible for the drowning 1,200 people during Hurricane Katrina.
But at a joint press conference Thursday at Li'l Dizzy's Cafe on Esplanade Avenue, Watson said his past criticism of Nagin was "heated, emotional fellowship."
Surrounded by his family, Watson said his decision to endorse Nagin "goes far beyond the mayor's office. It's about justice, it's about fairness and it's about our city's future."
Nagin also stroke a conciliatory note.
"I think the past is the past. There's no doubt we can work together," the mayor said.
Both men said Watson would not be employed under a second Nagin administration. Instead, Watson said he will be available for "spiritual leadership."
Nagin faces Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu in the runoff.
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