The names of four former top leaders of the Weathermen terrorist organization are listed as signatories on an online petition calling for an 'independent grassroots effort' to help strengthen Sen. Barack Obama's campaign.

The petition was initiated by Progressives for Obama, an independent organization acting to ensure the Illinois senator's election.

Progressives includes among its ranks many former members of the 1960s radical organization Students for a Democratic Society, or SDS, from which the Weathermen splintered, as well as current and former members of other radical organizations, such as the Communist Party USA and the Black Radical Congress.

'We agree that Barack Obama is our best option for president in 2008, and that an independent grassroots effort can help strengthen his campaign,' states the online petition. 'It can also strengthen the mandate for his programs for stopping war, promoting global justice and securing our rights, liberties, and economic well-being.' ....