Last week Howard Fineman had the scoop that Elizabeth Edwards was backing Clinton and was considering appearing at an event in support of her. Today the Times adds weight to the story.

On the other hand, Mrs. Edwards, her husband’s closest and most trusted adviser, has made it clear that she favors Mrs. Clinton; aides said she had recently tried to persuade Mr. Edwards to do the same.

The story also adds further weight to the notion that John Edwards is sitting on the sidelines in the hope that he will play a role in the next Democratic administration. “He doesn’t want to pick the loser,” is the continued word from those around him.

My take? As I have said before, John doesn’t gain much politically by coming out for either candidate right now. With that said, many of his supporters are people who believe he is honest and driven by conviction. If he believes the potential loser is the best choice, it would serve him well with his base to come out and say it.