In campaign news, Senator Hillary Clinton joined Barack Obama in the New Hampshire town of Unity on Friday. It marked Clinton’s first public appearance with Obama since she dropped out of the presidential race.

Sen. Hillary Clinton: “Unity is not only a beautiful place, as we can see, it’s a wonderful feeling, isn’t it? And I know what we start here in this field in Unity will end on the steps of the Capitol when Barack Obama takes the oath of office as our next president.”

Senator Barack Obama praised his former opponent.

Sen. Barack Obama: “I’ve admired her as a leader. I’ve learned from her as a candidate. [Audience member shouts, “Hillary Rocks!”] She rocks. She rocks. That’s the point I’m trying to make. I am proud to call her a friend and I know how much we need both Bill and Hillary Clinton as a party and as a country.”

Meanwhile, Senator Obama has announced plans to visit the Middle East and Europe ahead of the November election. Stops will include Israel, Jordan, France, Germany and Britain. Obama said the trip will allow him to “consult with some of our closest friends and allies about the common challenges we face.”