Kucinich ran in 2004 largely on the platform that he was the only candidate who had voted against the war in Iraq. He also called for national health insurance and a Department of Peace. Kucinich stayed in the race right up until the Democratic National Convention. His run earned him some endorsements from Hollywood actors and a prime time slot to speak at the convention but he picked up few delegates.
This year, he says he's unhappy with the way his fellow Democrats have continued to fund the war. Kucinich is known for his David vs. Goliath battles that began when he became mayor of Cleveland at age 31 and fought area banks and the Cleveland Electric Illuminating company to maintain the city's hold on Muni Power - now Cleveland Public Power. Last month, he was easily reelected to a sixth term in the U.S. House.
The only other Democrat to announce his candidacy for President is Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack. For NPR News, I'm Mark Urycki in Cleveland.