MIAMI — When asked why he didn't support a Democrat running for the Senate in his home state of North Carolina, Michael Jordan once quipped, "Republicans buy shoes too."
Well, that's not LeBron James' style.
The Miami Heat star makes many millions off his endorsement deals, including one with Nike. But there’s one other particular endorsement he isn’t shy about making news with, regardless of its negative impact on those deals — he's once again voting for Barack Obama for President.
"I've been second guessed," James said after scoring 23 points in Monday's 124-99 home win over Phoenix on election eve. "They're saying it's bad for the brand. If I feel like I want to support someone, then go for it."
James said he carefully researched Obama before he voted for the Democrat in 2008. He's done that again this time.
"No," James said about not being afraid as an athlete to take a stand. "I just think it's about knowledge if you know what's going on. I've always said I feel like it's important for me to do it because that's just who I am. I got out there and I learned a lot about it in ’08 and I learned a lot about it now."
James tweeted his support Monday for Obama. He's registered to vote in his native Ohio, and laughed when it was suggested he could end up casting a deciding vote in a battleground state.
"Hopefully," he said. "We'll see."
Regardless of who you're for in the election, it at least is refreshing to see James not afraid to make a stand. He certainly hasn't been influenced by Heat president Pat Riley, whom records show has donated $2,500 to Republican challenger Mitt Romney.
Interestingly, Riley is a big fan of Bruce Springsteen, who had a rally to support Obama. James was asked if he ever considered having an event for Obama the way the rock star did.
"I haven't had an opportunity to have an actual rally," James said. "It's kind of late now, but I've been able to send out a few tweets and support (Obama). The schedule has been so crazy now since we've been back into the season. I haven't been able to do something. But I'm supporting him and I think his camp knows that and everybody that knows me knows that."
Regardless of which candidate James is supporting, he said it's essential for everybody to vote Tuesday.
"I think it's a very important election for everyone," James said. "Everyone, they talk about having a right to vote. Just don't talk about it, actually go out and do it. And let your voice be heard, and I'm happy to be in the position I am."
And James doesn't care if that position costs him any shoe sales.
Chris Tomasson can be reached at christomasson@hotmail.com or on Twitter@christomasson
