Obama’s bear-hugger says he’d hit campaign trail

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — The hulking pizzeria owner whose presidential bear hug has thrust him into fame says he’s ready to hit the campaign trail if he’s asked.

Forty-six-year-old Scott Van Duzer was back behind the counter of his restaurant in Fort Pierce on Wednesday after a whirlwind New York media tour.

Photos and videos of him lifting the president off the ground have drawn attention around the world.

He says he’d likely agree if he was asked to join President Barack Obama on the trail in his bid for reelection.