Obama-Bloomberg ticket speculation appears

NEW YORK, March 28 (UPI) -- Introducing Sen. Barack Obama to a New York audience has renewed speculation about the political future of the city's Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

In presenting Obama, D-Ill., Thursday, Bloomberg noted that he hadn't endorsed any candidate, saying voters need to listen to all ideas, CNN reported.

Nonetheless, political observers say the introduction, a previous meeting and Bloomberg's switch in party affiliations fuels speculations about the political future of the New York leader.

An aide to the mayor said Obama asked Bloomberg to speak and that the mayor agreed.

Bloomberg, who was once a Democrat but changed affiliation to Republican for his first run for mayor and has since taken the "independent" mantel, in February dismissed speculation about his being on a presidential ticket as vice president. He once considered a possible White House run as an independent.

Stu Loeser, Bloomberg's press secretary, sought to downplay the gossip, telling CNN, "He's trying to shape and influence the campaigns, he's not trying to join one."

Bloomberg and Obama joked about a much-covered breakfast meeting they had in November. Bloomberg said he was pleased to introduce Obama "and not just because he picked up the check." Obama said he paid for the breakfast "because I expected payback. ... There are some good steakhouses in this city."