Pre-Clinton White House, who would have the power to deliver a kingmaker endorsement?

[AroundtheBend]

Okay, so everyone can pretty agree the 3 biggest "gets" a Democratic nominee can pick up in their quest for the primary are (in no particular order): Bill Clinton, Al Gore, and Ted Kennedy. If a candidate can snag anyone of these three, it is considered HUGE (ex. Al Gore for Dean in 04 and Kennedy for Obama). Carter would place slightly behind them.

Since I'm a youngin' at 24, I cannot particuarly remember a time when these three weren't the most sought after endorsements. So, for all you older dems, let's say this race took place before the Clintons ever came to be. Who would Hillary, Edwards, and Barack be clamoring to get? Who would their campaign managers be actively calling? Who would be capable of taking a rising star like Barack and instantly make him credible before our eyes -- and the party establishment? Or help to solidify Hillary's lead? Who would be able to provide the candidate with mass media coverage over night? Who would be capable of possibly (and I say possibly, not definitely) tipping the race?

[Neecy]

1. maybe Carter