LOS ANGELES - After an early dalliance with rival Barack Obama, legendary Hollywood director Steven Spielberg on Wednesday said he was lending his support to Hillary Clinton's 2008 White House campaign.
Spielberg, who co-hosted a lavish fund-raiser for Obama in February, said he was endorsing Clinton's bid for the Democratic presidential nomination after weighing the candidates and deciding she was best qualified for the job.
"I've taken the time to familiarize myself with the impressive field of Democratic candidates and am convinced that Hillary Clinton is the most qualified candidate to lead us from her first day in the White House," Spielberg said on Clinton campaign website HillaryHub.com.
"Hillary is a strong leader and is respected the world over. As president, she will bring America back together, rebuild our prestige abroad and ensure our protection here at home," said Spielberg, the Oscar-winning director of "Schindler's List" and a string of blockbusters.
Bill Clinton enjoyed near-universal adoration from Hollywood's elite during his 1993-2001 presidency but it was not clear earlier this year if that support would automatically transfer to Hillary Clinton.
Several celebrities indicated they were impressed with Illinois Senator Obama's claims and one former Clinton loyalist, billionaire entertainment mogul David Geffen, issued a scathing attack on New York senator Clinton's bid.
However analysts say Hollywood celebrities are increasingly turning to Clinton as she consolidates her position as the Democratic front-runner.
06/13/2007 17:16 GMT