"Stirred The Conscience Of Our Nation"

Pols and parties and, more importantly, real people are commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King's assassination.

Hillary Clinton and John McCain are speaking in Memphis. Barack Obama is reportedly folding his tribute into a scheduled speech in IN.

During her speech, Clinton will call for the creation of a Cabinet-level poverty czar. McCain, meanawhile, issued this statement through his campaign: "Today we commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a great American taken from us all too soon. Dr. King stirred the conscience of our nation to ensure that the self-evident truths of human freedom held true for all Americans. The power of his work and vision was not ended forty years ago in Memphis. Across the world, men and women are living Dr. King's dream as they strive to extend the blessings of human liberty and human rights to all. Today, we mark a tragic day in our nation's history while honoring the work of a man who was the voice for our nation's highest ideals."

Obama's campaign -- despite repeated requests for details about the candidate's plans for the day -- has not provided additional info. Clinton's campaign, by contrast, has been quick to offer her sched. Earlier this week, as we reported, she also created a video tribute to King. Why has Obama been so quiet? Is he concerned about overly politicizing such a solemn event in American history? Seems strange not to salute this true American hero in a grander, more meaningful way. Why not go to Memphis?

Party chair statements after the jump.

WASHINGTON – RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan released the following statement on the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. today:

“Today, we mark the 40th anniversary of the tragic assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by honoring his life’s work and his inspirational legacy of faith, freedom, and hope. Dr. King’s vision for America was one of equality and prosperity – the very essence of the American Dream.

“We honor Dr. King’s tireless efforts for a united nation and the pursuit of the American Dream for its people, regardless of race or creed. We believe that every American can realize their God-given potential if provided the opportunities and tools to do so. Access to a quality education, meaningful employment, and a place to call home are the building blocks of this dream, and faith is the mortar.

“Dr. King’s dream is a promise that remains true today and will continue to pave the way to a brighter future for our country.”

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Washington, DC - Today, Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean issued the following statement on the fortieth anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.:

"Today we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a transformative American leader whose life was cut tragically short 40 years ago. As we reflect on this solemn occasion, each one of us should reaffirm our commitment to continuing Dr. King's fight for social justice, equality, fairness, and inclusion for all Americans.

"Among the many lessons of Dr. King's life, he taught us that our Democracy must be nurtured. That the work of making America a better place is a lifetime commitment. Each one of us must fight for the shared values of an America where we stand up and stand together for the least among us, for our children, our veterans, our communities, the very things that define who we are and what we believe.

"This year's presidential election provides a ray of hope in the realization of Dr. King's dream. Across the country we've seen historic turnout as Americans from all walks of life are making their voices heard to move our country forward. Today the Democratic Party reaffirms its commitment to work towards the beloved community Dr. King envisioned. "