Evening News Roundup

ABC: Dodd’s endorsement of Obama led the politics segment several stories in. Next, Stephanopoulos previewed Cleveland debate, said Clinton has a difficult task while Obama must not look “aloof and arrogant.” GOP report spent considerable time on “caustic” radio host introducing McCain, played all three “Hussein” references about Obama. Also played Limbaugh mocking McCain’s apology, suggested incident exposed weak support for McCain from conservatives.

CBS: Politics led with Dodd endorsement, followed by positive coverage of Obama “taking the high road” on the stump, contrasted with Clinton’s “shame” remark from Saturday. Report laid out Clinton’s steep odds to the nomination. Jeff Greenfield looked at importance of trade and job losses to Ohio voters, with interview with Sen. Sherrod Brown.

NBC: Opened from inside debate hall, said Clinton Tuesday signaled campaign has gone too negative. In interview with Dodd after Obama endorsement he warned Clinton against attack politics, said voters are "sick of it." Then, dug into NAFTA stances, concluded both have been inconsistent. Next, covered McCain "damage control" after radio host's anti-Obama rant. Russert weighed in, said Clintons are trying to balance protecting legacy, going as far as they can in nomination fight, noted B.Clinton has raised expectations in Ohio. Week-long issues series looked at candidates on health care.