Madonna backs Clark presidential campaign

Madonna has backed retired NATO General Wesley Clark to be the next President of the United States.

The material girl said the former NATO Supreme Allied Commander was best qualified to replace George Bush in next year’s elections.

She said: “I think to be the general for as long as he’s been, this is a man who knows how to deal with pressure and make decisions under pressure.

“I think he has a good handle on foreign policy, I think he’s good with people, and I think he has a heart and a consciousness,” she told CNN.

Madonna, who recently met with Gen. Clark, is believed to be planning a fund-raising concert for his benefit.

She said he was a natural-born leader, adding: “As it stands right now, he’s got my support.”

A Clark campaign spokesman said: “We’re delighted with the endorsement of a superstar for our four-star.”

Retired Four-Star General Clark is among the favourites to win the democratic nomination to challenge Mr Bush next year.

Former Vermont Governor Howard Dean is the front-runner and recently secured the backing of former vice-president Al Gore.

But his outspoken opposition to the Iraq war has proved a handicap in recent days as public support for the campaign was boosted by the capture of Saddam Hussein.

Gen. Clark also saw his profile raised this week when giving evidence against accused war criminal Slobodan Milosevic at the Hague.