April 18, 2008 Edwards hopes for accelerated nomination timetable Play video

(NECN: Cambridge, Mass.) - Former Presidential candidate John Edwards today expressed his hope that the Democratic fight between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama can come to a conclusion before it gets to the convention floor in Denver in August.

After a anti-poverty speech at M.I.T. on Friday, Edwards acknowledged the potential problems the extended campaign could have on the eventual nominee. "Anything that makes sense, and makes sure everybody's voice is heard, and expedites the process is good," Edwards told NECN's Alison King.

Edwards declined to say if or when he might endorse one of his formal rivals.

Edwards also said he woul put no pressure on his former delegates to support either candidate, and said that the party's superdelegates should be able to consider both the will of the voters in their states and their own conscience in choosing a candidate to support.

And on the subject of poverty, where he is once again focusing his energies, Edwards noted that while he will work to get a Democrat elected in November, he acknowledged that John McCain has also taken up the fight against poverty, including a planned 'poverty tour' next week.

"I have a lot of respect for John McCain," Edwards added.