Colin Powell endorses Barack Obama for president

Former Secretary of State Colin Powell has endorsed Democrat Barack Obama for president, describing the Illinois senator as a "transformational figure." Powell said both Obama and Republican John McCain are qualified to be commander in chief. But, in an interview Sunday on NBC television's "Meet the Press," he said Obama is better suited to handle the nation's economic problems as well as help improve it's standing in the world. Powell expressed disappointment in the negative tone of McCain's campaign, as well as in his choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as the Republican vice presidential nominee. Powell said he does not believe Palin is ready to take over as president, if necessary.