Margaret Oliver, who had never attended a Democratic caucus before Sunday, supports Hillary Clinton for president because “I admire her backbone.”

A registered Democrat, Oliver, 62, of Gorham, was among some 400 people – up from 140 in 2004 – attending the caucus Sunday at Gorham High School.

“This is my first time that I’ve been fired up enough to come,” said Oliver, who was accompanied by her husband, Bob.

Oliver has favored the former first lady since she first announced her candidacy and hasn’t wavered. She said experience is one reason why she’s backing Clinton.

Also, she said people should listen to Clinton’s proposal on health care. Oliver said the nation was in better shape while Clinton’s husband was president.

Oliver, who has two daughters and two grandchildren, has followed this campaign closely with a keen interest. While she didn’t attend Bill Clinton’s rally last week in Portland, “I’ve been listening,” she said.

She believes Hillary Clinton has more savvy than Sen. Barack Obama. Oliver said Obama has a lot of dreams but questioned whether he could make those dreams become reality.

“I’m worried that Obama is too naive,” Oliver said.

Obama, however, would get her vote for president if he, not Clinton, wins the nomination.

“I know who I’m not supporting and that would be John McCain,” Oliver said.

She liked the opportunity to be counted in a local caucus.

“It’s a good thing,” Oliver said. “People are passionate.”

(Margaret Oliver)