FACTBOX-U.S. presidential hopefuls on Bhutto murder

(Reuters) - Democratic and Republican candidates for the U.S. presidency in 2008 condemned the assassination on Thursday of Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Following are some of their comments on the events in Pakistan.

DEMOCRATS:

DELAWARE SEN. JOE BIDEN:

"I am convinced Ms. Bhutto would have won free and fair elections next week. The fact that she was by far Pakistan's most popular leader underscores the fact that there is a vast, moderate majority in Pakistan that must have a clear voice in the system. Her assassination makes it all the more urgent that Pakistan return to a democratic path."

NEW YORK SEN. HILLARY CLINTON:

"Her death is a tragedy for her country and a terrible reminder of the work that remains to bring peace, stability, and hope to regions of the globe too often paralyzed by fear, hatred, and violence."

CONNECTICUT SEN. CHRIS DODD:

"As we recognize the loss of a leader today, we must also recognize the implication of today's tragedy to the security of the region and to that of the United States. At this critical time we must do everything in our power to help Pakistan continue the path toward democracy and full elections. Our first priority must be to ensure stability in this critical nuclear state."