Clinton seeks Texas Hispanic support

SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Sen. Hillary Clinton stepped up criticism of Sen. Barack Obama, her rival for the Democratic presidential nomination, in a campaign sweep across South Texas.

Clinton, D-N.Y., Wednesday said Obama, D-Ill., was in the "promises business" and less qualified and less experienced than she to be U.S. president.

Clinton also looked to shore up Hispanic support which she reportedly is banking on to carry Texas in the March 4 showdown with Obama. Delegate-rich Ohio also will be decided on that date.

In an interview with the San Antonio Express-News, Clinton sidestepped the question of whether she must win big in Texas in order to capture the nomination.

"I don't think about it like that," she said. "I'm really hoping to do very well here. We're working hard."

But, Clinton made it clear she needed the Lone Star State, the report said.

In stops in McAllen, Robstown and San Antonio, Clinton blasted Obama's healthcare and economic policies and showcased her support from Hispanic elected officials.

The effort to lure Hispanic voters was illustrated with a Robstown supporter's sign: "Hillary First Latina President."

Exit polls from other states have shown Latinos to be a key constituency for Clinton.