Hillary Clinton takes first step for 2008 US race

WASHINGTON, Jan 20 (Reuters) Democratic US Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton today said she planned to form an exploratory committee for the 2008 presidential race, the first step toward becoming a candidate for her party's nomination.

''I'm in,' said a banner headline in huge letters on her Web site.'' The second-term New York senator and former US first lady was widely anticipated to announce a bid and leads five other candidates in a Democratic White House field.

In a videotaped message on her Web site, Clinton said, ''After six years of George Bush it is time to renew the promise of America.'' ''I am forming a presidential exploratory committee. I am not just staring a campaign though, I am beginning a conversation with you, with America. Because we all need to be part of a discussion if we are going to be part of the solution.'' ''Let's talk about how to bring the right end to the war in Iraq and restore respect for America around the world,'' she said in mentioning several issues she will address in her campaign which also included energy and health care.

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