Even though Mrs. Clinton was not in Iowa, an independent organization supporting her likely 2008 campaign had a large presence at the dinner.

"The response has been overwhelming," said Peter Feddo, of VoteHillary.org, based in Chester, Va.

Mr. Feddo said Mrs. Clinton is focused on her Senate re-election, but that Mr. Clinton's speech was "very symbolic" of themes that Mrs. Clinton would tout as a presidential candidate.

"It was the same kind of issues, including working with Republicans," Mr. Feddo said.

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