First thoughts: Obama goes 10-0

Posted: Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:15 AM by Domenico Montanaro
Filed Under: First Thoughts

From Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, and Domenico Montanaro
*** Obama goes 10-0: The best way to end two days of tough press coverage? You go out and win a contested state -- and a general election battleground, to boot -- by 17 points. That’s exactly what Obama did in Wisconsin yesterday, and when you add his victory late last night in Hawaii, he’s now an eye-popping 10-0 since February 5. What’s more, every single win after Super Tuesday has been in the double digits, the narrowest margin being last night’s 17-point win. Yes, Obama outspent Clinton in Wisconsin. Yes, he campaigned in the state longer than she did. And, yes, Madison is full of potential Obama base supporters: college students and highly educated adults. But demographically, Wisconsin was a perfect place for Clinton to stop Obama’s momentum. And she tried with negative TV ads (hitting Obama on health care, Social Security, and not participating in debates), mailings (slamming him on health care and his “present” votes), and a well-timed oppo hit (on Obama lifting lines from Deval Patrick’s speeches). And still, per the exit polls, Obama won among those who decided on Election Day (though it was closer), as well as in the last three days. There's an argument that some in the Clinton campaign can make that the negative stuff was just starting to work. Then again, it was a 17-point win...

VIDEO: "Meet the Press" host Tim Russert talks with TODAY’s Meredith Vieira about the results of the Wisconsin and Hawaii primaries.

*** Is it panic time yet? Losing as badly as she did in Wisconsin really puts Clinton’s campaign in as precarious of a position as it has ever been. The likelihood she can beat Obama as badly as she needs to in any remaining state -- let alone Ohio and Texas -- is very remote at this point. She no longer controls her own destiny, but now has to hope for an unforced error by Obama. And a big one. The good news for Clinton, the next six days provide two opportunities for unforced errors: debates. But how negative can Clinton go at this point? According to NBC's Andrea Mitchell and Newsweek's Howard Fineman, there's a divide inside the campaign about how negative to go. On one side is Mark Penn, who is ready to go all out (and who comes from the Bill Clinton school that there is no tomorrow, fight today); on the other is Mandy Grunwald and Howard Wolfson, who are worried about Clinton's legacy. After all, there has to be a point where Clinton says to herself, "there might be a next time." Isn't it possible Obama blows this as the nominee? And if so, who's going to be asked to pick up the pieces in 2009?

*** It’s the campaign, stupid…: Time and again, we hear anecdotes of how the Obama campaign has more staff here or more money there. This, of course, was a luxury Obama had versus Clinton. The Obama campaign knew they weren't going to win quickly, and so they prepared for the long campaign -- the delegate fight. The Clinton campaign has been surprisingly unprepared for the long haul. Remember when Clinton herself said the contest would be over February 5? This is the only way to explain the consistent caucus beat-down they take and the lack of preparation for Wisconsin. It's the Obama campaign that's doing the little things tactically. At some point, one has to wonder if Obama will start using the organizational success he's had in this campaign as a talking point about his own preparation to run the White House. After all, this is the largest organization either Clinton or Obama has run.

*** A troubling sign for Ohio? Clinton won just a few demographics in Wisconsin last night, including among white women (52%-47%) and those over 60 (54%-45%). But one group she lost, per NBC’s AnaMaria Arumi, was among whites making less than $50,000 (50%-48%). What’s significant for Obama is that -- outside of Utah and his home state of Illinois -- last night’s contest was his best score with that subgroup. Among all of those making under $50,000, Obama beat Clinton, 54%-44%; among those making more than $50,000, he won, 60%-39%. Clinton is targeting blue-collar workers, but has the wormed turned here, too?

VIDEO: After losing the Wisconsin primary, Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., tells voters that the new president should rely on ‘hard work to get America back to work’. 'The question isn't whether we can,' says Clinton, 'but whether we will.'

*** The Delegate math: After last night’s contests, here’s where things stand: The NBC News Hard Count is Obama 1,168, Clinton 1,018. There are 53 delegates unallocated, including 19 in MD, 10 each in CO and GA, 6 in WI, 4 in HI, and one each in DC, TN, NY and IL. We estimate a conservative 27-26 split here. The Superdelegate Count: Clinton 257 versus Obama 185. That’s a grand total of: Obama 1,355, Clinton 1,276. Counting only the superdelegates he has now, plus his pledged delegates, Obama needs 65% of remaining PLEDGED delegates to hit the magic 2025 number. Reaching that is probably unrealistic, but when you add in the unaffiliated 353 superdelegates (76 of whom are not yet known yet and won't be appointed until April, May and June), his magic percentage number is down to 48%. On the flip side, Clinton needs to win 58% of all remaining pledged delegates simply to get the pledged delegate lead back. Forget 2025. And if you assume Obama wins Vermont, Wyoming, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oregon, Montana, and South Dakota, then the magic percentage number in the states Clinton wins rises to 65% -- SIMPLY TO GET THE PLEDGED DELEGATE LEAD BACK...

VIDEO: Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., after winning the Wisconsin primary, encourages voters to ‘fight for every delegate needed to win the nomination’ and then to fight for the presidency.

*** The way to win? The Clinton campaign, meanwhile, has unveiled its own Delegate Hub, a Web site listing “facts and myths” about the Democratic race for delegates. What’s most interesting here is that the campaign moves the 2025 magic number to include Florida and Michigan (thus 2208). And as Harold Ickes tried on Saturday, they want to erase the pledged vs. super distinction. This is the clearest signal yet that the Clinton campaign knows they can’t win as things stand now and need to win this on the perception front.

*** Compare and contrast: Lost in the attention of last night’s Democratic contest in Wisconsin was McCain’s own win in the Badger State, as well as in Washington. However, McCain should be thankful there won’t be many more back-to-back Election Night speeches, in which TV viewers can compare the speeches and the audiences. In fact, fast forward to the conventions and ask yourself: If you were McCain, would you want to have your convention first or second. (The GOP convention goes second.) But jeez, that was a long speech by Obama -- maybe too long. Obviously, last night was about putting the Deval Patrick issue to rest, so he spoke with no teleprompter and notes. We get it, but he rambled just a tad.

*** Buckeye Bill? Bill Clinton campaigns today and tomorrow in Texas. But just asking: Will we see him stump for his wife in Ohio? Because of NAFTA? According to the exit polls in Wisconsin, a whopping 72% said that trade with other countries takes more jobs from the state -- rather than creates them -- and Obama won those folks by a 57%-41% margin.

*** Michelle making news: Speaking of spouses, anyone else getting flashbacks to Hillary Clinton '92 when hearing Michelle Obama make news and, well, speak her mind? We can hear the divisive whispers about her already and some of the critiques come across like the ones Republicans leveled at Hillary '92. Barack may be coated in the same Teflon Reagan and Bill Clinton soaked in during their campaigns, but like Nancy and Hillary, Michelle Obama may not be as lucky.

VIDEO: Speaking to women voters in Rhode Island, Michelle Obama explains her "proud of my country" remarks.

*** On the trail: Elsewhere today, Clinton raises money in New York City before heading once again to South Texas, where she visits Hidalgo (with Rep. Ruben Hinojosa) and Brownsville (with Rep. Solomon Ortiz); Huckabee is also in Texas, where he holds a rally in Plano; McCain spends his day in Ohio before taking off to Obama’s home state of Illinois for a media avail; and Obama holds a rally in Dallas, TX. Also today, Michelle Obama campaigns in Rhode Island and Ted Kennedy stumps in South Texas.

Countdown to the MSNBC debate in Ohio: 6
Countdown to Ohio and Texas: 13 days
Countdown to Election Day 2008: 258 days
Countdown to Inauguration Day 2009: 335 days

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Comments

I hope we all noticed that there were something like eleven voters on the Democratic side in Wisconsin for every four Republicans. Can you say landslide? I almost feel sorry for John if we manage to pull this thing together. He’s already picking up where Hillary leaves off. The experience versus judgment attack hasn’t worked for her and it won’t serve him much better, even though he is more qualified to assume the experience mantle. It’s just the wrong message this year. And please, let’s stop all this crazy talk about casting protest votes for McCain. We can hardly afford to have conservatives pick any more Supreme Court justices that we would then have to live with for decades to come.

jaycee, Ventura, California (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:21 AM)

With the left wing nuts of my party going all cult like over Obama, you have just handed the white house to the repukes for 4 more years...thanks to the Obamamaniacs, the Obamabots, the Obamamorons, you have put forth an experienced windbag nominee that will be torn to shreads by the republican machine, as he is already...the inexperience, the empty rhetoric, etc....attacks already being used by McCain.

So, thank you left wing nuts of the democratic party...you just played into Karl Rove's hands, and gave the White House to McCain!

Pat Huntington NY (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:21 AM)

How do you debate someone that uses the logic of "Change"?

Here's a clue. Obama won't change anything. If he were President, from a power point of view, his powers would be clear, they are defined in the Constitution and in law. From a "changing the tone in Washington" point of view, he's the most liberal politician in Washington, he'll get immediate criticism from even the moderates in his own party. Concerning foreign policy, he'll be laughed at by other world leaders for how naive he is. From a domestic policy point of view, he's promised everyone everything. With that as his starting point, he's sure to disappoint many, many people. If elected, his political honeymoon would last about 2 days.

Obama has been put on such a high pedestal, he has no chance to meet peoples expectations. Obama could easily make Jimmy Carter's presidency look good.

Chris Fredricks, Mitchell, SD (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:23 AM)

Obama has already used the "organizational success he's had in this campaign as a talking point about his own preparation to run the White House."

Making the point that he's built an organization with a budget of over 100 million dollars, hundreds of employees -- and all with very little drama or staff turn-over.

Vermonter (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:25 AM)

I hope after March 4 when she no longer has a chance, that Hillary concedes. I fear how angry, negative and divisive she will be over the next 2 weeks. I won't blame FR for reporting all of the negativity because it will be news. I just pray that it does not divide the party and we cannot defeat McCain in November.

Go Obama!

Steve, San Diego (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:29 AM)

<< Speaking of spouses, anyone else getting flashbacks to Hillary Clinton '92 when hearing Michelle Obama make news and, well, speak her mind? >>

Well, yeah . . You say "This is the first time I've ever been proud of my country" (and she said TWICE), and you can expect a little blow back.

The Obama's are about anything but "Change". They are the same old greasy money-taking, back-stabbing, and corrupt politicians, just like the Clinton's.

Andy Russell, Youngstown Ohio (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:34 AM)

"At some point, one has to wonder if Obama will start using the organizational success he's had in this campaign as a talking point about his own preparation to run the White House. After all, this is the largest organization either Clinton or Obama has run."

Obama did make that point in the ABC/Politico interview on the eve of the Potomac Primary

David Holiday, Silver Spring, MD (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:35 AM)

What is Hillary doing? Everyday that goes by, she’s only hurting the Democrats’ chances. She can’t win this thing. I thought she had more class than this.

I’ve changed my vote to Obama, he’s a real leader. I encourage other Ohioans to do the same.

ExHillary/Oh (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:36 AM)

Bill Clinton's legacy = Monica Lewinski

Hillary's legacy = "Where do I stand on driver's licenses for illegal immigrants . . . well, er, I would first vote 'yes' and then later would vote 'no' . . . well, er, maybe 'no' first then 'yes' later . . . well, er, maybe two 'yeses' then two 'nos' . . . well, really, I cannot say until my focus group tells me what I think, but in general I will be for them in States that that will help me and against them in States that that will help me . . . hey, wait a minute, I have a copy of my opponent's kindergarden trranscript and it shows he did poorly in fingerpainting and do we want a President who cannot fingerpaint?" She smiles smugly and cackles, knowing that her kindergarden transcript has been sealed until 2012.

John Banning, Springfield, MO (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:38 AM)

Hillary Clinton doesn't seem to get it. If her slash and burn rampage against Obama is successful, John McCain will become president and we will be in Iraq 100 years. Or worse yet, she Doesn't care!

Gregory Peek, Birmingham, Alabama (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:38 AM)

As one of the talking heads pointed out this weekend, the biggest organization any of the remaining three candidates has ever run, is their current campaign. So it's interesting that only one of the three, Obama, has been able to manage the resources needed to run the campaign effectively, without running into financial problems.

Bill, CC, Tx (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:38 AM)

I love my country. I am proud to be an American. I am proud of the great heritage left to us by so many great leaders of the past. I am proud to live in the great Pacific Northwest where some of the wonderful wilderness with which we were blessed still survives.
I am NOT proud that George W Bush LIED us into a war (occupation) that has created a humanitarian disaster. I am NOT proud that americans have tortured and humiliated prisoners of war. I am NOT proud that the manufacturing facility where I have worked for 12 years will soon close because NAFTA made it more profitable for the owners to ship all our jobs to China. I am NOT proud of the way so many people suffered needlessly after Hurricane Katrina struck because the richest nation in the world was not prepared to help its own people. Just like they tried to scare everyone into supporting their lie of war in Iraq by saying if you don't you're unpatriotic....it IS INDEED PATRIOTIC to speak up about the tragic course our great country has been set upon by greed and bad judgement.

JohnnyU, WA State (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:39 AM)

The short sighted Obamabots will see that what they did to win the nomination will cost the democratic party the general election...remember that one...the only election that matters? Thanks obamamorons, you have handed the country a 3rd Bush term with President John McCain.

Pat Huntington NY (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:39 AM)

It's my belief at this point, Hillary should, in the best interest of the party, concede. Some may say premature but after 2 more losses, at what point do you say enough?
Obama has had, from day one, a better built organization, loyal supporters and plenty of monetary support. Some may argue his lack of experience but what president has really had any "experience"? To this day I wonder if George W. has gained any, and if so where does he keep it? What real "experience" has Hillary had? She mentions her vast years of experience, 35, but that would have her still in law school!!
I think in order to give Mr. McCain a run for the Oval Office, we as a party, should unite at this juncture and set aside the differences.

John, Beaumont, CA (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:39 AM)

For what it's worth I could not be happier with the candidates available in this cycle. I believe John McCain to be an honest, honorable man. If I were to vote republican, hands down, my pick would be Mr. McCain. If Hillary were to win the nod, I think we would have a fine representative in government, able to address the issues we are facing.

But, alas, there is a mobilization. A movement. A force that is tuning into the despaired, the dejected, and the despondent. There is a calling for involvement. A plea for activism. A promise that we, together, can move mountains. A belief, that if all the people of this great nation come to the table with open minds, and willingness to compromise, WE can move passed this current state of failed government. A belief that if the people of this United States of America desire, inspire, roll up our sleeves, and demand change that we WILL make the changes we seek. If the people DEMAND it the politicians will finally be released from this gridlock, in fear of their JOBS! This is what Mr. Obama brings to the campaign. Not just promises, but requests of service. Not just words, but motivation. Not just motivation, but, more importantly, mobilization. The American People are stepping up. We are taking OUR government back. The politics of old are being discarded, and once again a great beast is being awakened. Oh, I can't wait.

LOVE THY NEIGHBOR!!

Ted Mitchell, Jackson MI (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:42 AM)

So, Hillary. You having fun yet? Is this the fun part?

Capt'n Jack (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:43 AM)

Congrats to Senators Obama & McCain on their respective wins in yesterdays contests. Hillary, you are about to be poked with a tined eating implement for you are truly done!!

Phred, NH (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:43 AM)

I’d like to extend my appreciation to Chris Matthews last night for a comment he made. He believes, as I do, that we are finally going to the polls to vote for what we all believe is in the best interest of not just ourselves, but what is in the best interest of our country. This election doesn’t appear to be about what our country can do for us anymore like it has been for years under the Republicans. We are angry and ashamed at the direction this country took over the last 8 years.
And we have come to the conclusion that “the United States is not measuring up” I believe Chris said. Barack Obama is getting educated voters in large numbers. This I believe is because we all want to return back to the basics: to care about our country as a whole again, which also means going back to caring about people. Just everyday people. People, who as Michelle Obama has said, do everything they’re supposed to do but just can’t get ahead.
There is something fundamentally wrong with that. And we as a country are tapping into that. I hope it continues.

Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:44 AM)

Its Over for Hill and Bill. Time to drop out before She Divides the Dems with her negative campaign

Tony, New York (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:44 AM)

I can already see the 30 second McCain Ads ripping Obama to shreds:

1. Mrs. Obama hasn't been proud of her country for her entire adult life, but be sure that McCain has always been proud of the USA, vote for a true patriot, vote for real experience, vote McCain.

2. While Obama was in diapers, McCain was fighting to protect the US was communism. Vote for a secure America, vote McCain.

3. While Obama wants to have tea with our enemies and surrender Iraq to Al Qaeda and Iran, McCain wants to defeat them, and secure our nation...vote for real change, vote for a more secure and prosperous nation, vote McCain.

See, I am not even a campaign specialist, and I came up with that in 30 seconds. Imagine what a professional can do to Obama?

As for Hillary, other than the tired old attacks against her, the only ads that can be run against her are those that attack her policy positions on the issues, which is what the election should be about, and since her policies are the same as Obama's, and she's already tested and vetted, she'll be able to defend the republican attack machine better.

Pat Huntington NY (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:44 AM)

Didn't Mark Penn tell us last November that "If the election was held today, Hillary would win"? How about now Penn? Would she win now?

Richard, Trenton, NJ (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:44 AM)

Hillary should drop out now instead of continuing her 'scorched earth' policy. Otherwise, she will end up owning the permanent label of ungracious loser for the rest of her life.

John, Allegan MI (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:45 AM)

Senator Obama gets 48 minutes of prime time uninterrupted commercial free coverage of his Houston speech last night on MSNBC, CNN and Fox. John McCain gets a few minutes of coverage after his Wisconsin win. Hillary Clinton gets her few minutes of coverage of a speech in Ohio interrupted so we can listen to Senator Obama (not the meat of his speech but a cutover so we could listen to him thank all the local officials). Something about this coverage gives me a really creepy feeling - particularly that the uninterrupted Obama speech coverage was happening simultaneously on all three cable networks.

jean999, Clearwater, Florida (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:46 AM)

Yes, late-day deciders broke even but don't we all remember that they ALWAYS do ? Late-day deciders tend to break for Hillary by a larger proportion than the rest of the electorate because if you haven't decided by Election Day, chances are you are going to more tempted to fall back to the safe candidate. The fact last-day deciders broke 50-50 is actually an IMPROVEMENT for Obama over even VA and MD that he won by huge margins as well.
In other words, the attacks did not work and may even have been counterproductive !

Benjamin (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:47 AM)

If Obama admits that he takes money from lobbyists, and apologizes to the American people for deceiving them before my state's primary, I will vote for him. But I'm not holding my breath.

I have a feeling that I'm going to be voting for my cat in November.

Shtuey (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:47 AM)

Let's put the winning streak in perspective:

Contest margin of victory
Louisiana 21%
Nebraska 36%
Washington 37%
US Virgin Islands 81%
Maine 19%
Virginia 29%
Washington DC 51%
Maryland 23%
Wisconsin 17%
Hawaii 52%

Spin that.

Dave, Evergreen CO (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:49 AM)

Now is the time for Speaker Pelosi, Vice President Gore, Senators Biden, Dodd, and Edwards, as well as Governor Richardson to pay a kind visit to the Clintons to deliver the message.

Now is the time for the Clintons to hear loud and clear that they must stop their attacks upon our Country, our Democratic party, our nominee, and our next President, Barack Obama.

William, Erin, WI (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:50 AM)

Obama has outspent her because he has the money. Obama has managed his money and organization very well and this is a sign of the kind of executive he is.
That is why many wonder about HRC bragging she can do things and get things done. Her campaign has been totally mismanaged as well as the money.

The "magic' numbers that the Clinton camp is trying to use won't hold water.
Let's say they somehow succeed in their scheme. How will she be able to have the respect or authority needed when she was not the choice of the voters and had to 'steal' it to win.
Where is the reward if the people are angry with you, blame you and feel you cheated. And no one will follow.

diane (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:51 AM)

A few short notes:

- Michelle Obama will be just fine. She is a classy
and authentic lady, and that comes through
whenever she speaks.

- Senator Obama's speech was long! lol (But I loved
every minute of it because it came after a BIG WIN
in Wisconsin! Cheese Heads ROCK!)

- I am so PROUD of the American people for making up
their own minds and not buying into every made up
scandal that comes down the pike - this time we
mean business! We will not be sidetracked by
manufactured wedge issues that don't effect our
daily lives like "who is proud" and "who
isn't". . .

YES WE CAN! :)

Nashville_fan (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:52 AM)

Who is voting for Hillary going to switch to Obama? Not me. I will NEVER vote for him. He is a fraud. So that means I guess that McCain wins.

Because Obama has NO substance. And what his wife said yesterday is deplorable. Shameless. That woman should be cornered. She needs to stop already. She was the initial reason I wouldn't vote for Obama and now he is the main reason.

But if he thinks he has the Clinton votes, he is in for a rude awakening. Thanks for giving us another 4 years of Bush, Obama. Way to go! you idiot.

Antiyou (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:53 AM)

JohnnyU, WA. Yesterday you said NAFTA was responsible for your job being moved to China. I'm confused. Can you explain?

Alan, NJ (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:54 AM)

A great summary, although I am still confused by the conflicting delegate counts between NBC's political director and what is reported in the MSNBC news articles.

In any event, the Clinton campaign is living in a fantasy world. Obama has 10 straight wins by double-digits, continued higher electability poll ratings than Clinton against McCain, 150+ elected delegates, more states, more popular vote!

You guys make a great point that Obama should use the campaigns as management evidence. Clinton squandered $140 million and was unprepared for caucuses or post-Super Tuesday. As someone said on MSNBC last night if the roles were reversed, all speculation would be when will Obama concede.

Speaking of which, how arrogant and rude can the Clinton campaign be to not offer your opponent congratulations? That is not only customary, but polite. This says a lot about them.

Finally, in the whole overblown Deval Patrick/sharing themes story, no one has seemed to care where the story came from---the Clinton campaign! She is practicing the same "politics of personal destruction" she condemns. Obama campaigns on leadership and issues, leaving out the personal and the demagogic.

Party elders need to step in soon and help the Clintons (both) concede this race. It is over. Any attempt to muscle in and overturn the will of the voters will make the party look like the Soviet Politburo and damage chances in November.

Marc V, Fort Lauderdale, FL (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:54 AM)

John McCain and Hillary Clinton can dismiss Obama's powerful rhetoric all they want, but has it ever occurred to them that his words are effective because they reflect his outstanding ability to think clearly on his feet and a higher motivation than desire for personal power or food for his ego?

Sandra Clay Junction City Kansas (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:55 AM)

Pat Huntington NY, You are absolutley right. I don't know what is wrong with the democrates. After eight years of Bush and the republicans destroying this country, they elect Barack Hussein Obama. Now we will have another republican in office. John McBush.

Sharon Stone (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:57 AM)

Michelle said I am REALLY proud. Not just proud or she has never been proud. This blind patriotism is ridiculous. Has anyone ever heard of freedom of speech? I will say I also have not been proud for a long time because of "W" and Bills affairs. We are better than this.
I wonder how McCain feels about torture? Is he proud of "W"? Is he proud of this massive debt??

Tony, New York (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:58 AM)

Chuck Todd and Crew,

Keep up the good work! You guys are the best.

Obama 08

GGive, San Antonio, TX (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:58 AM)

Pat Huntington, NY wrote:

"The short sighted Obamabots will see that what they did to win the nomination will cost the democratic party the general election"
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Pat,

What did we do? Support our candidate, debunk the distortion of his record, and donate to his campaign. . . I don't see anything to regret!

Nashville_fan (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:59 AM)

*** Obama goes 10-0: That's a perfect game in bowling ...300!

"The likelihood she can beat Obama as badly as she needs to in any remaining state -- let alone Ohio and Texas -- is very remote at this point."
--Obama us in a position of a two-front campaign. Both John McCain and Hillary Clinton are attacking him. A political campaign responds to the most immediate threat-Clinton in this case. As a result, McCain has his way with Obama (Sexist pigs, I never would have wrote 'have his way with Clinton). How long is it before Hillary Clinton is pressured to drop out or continue to harm the Democratic party and its chances this year? See that while Huckabee is still running, he is not attacking John McCain.

*** Michelle making news:
--Yes, her comment was a mistake, but who among us has not used hyperbole in conversation (certainly not any pundits). Olbermann's "BEST and WORST ..." I've got no doubt that she is proud of her country, and those trying to make it into something it isn't need to get a life.

--The Clinton campaign could learn something from Cindy McCain. She alluded to the comment, got to imply that the Democrats don't love their country, but then let it go. Surprise, surprise, the media picked up the subtle attack moreso than they do the Clintons machine's craming it down everybody's throats as the WORST thing that's every occurred.

Nicholas: Minnesota (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:59 AM)

America, get ready for a wonderful president. Our time for change - and REAL results has come!

God bless President Obama.

colene, New York, New York (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:01 AM)

Ok at what point do those that support Hillary finally come to grips with the fact that this is a beat-down, the party is speaking loudly, and they are not inherently smarter then the rest of the party. So there must be other motives for continuing to support these childish and desperate tactics.

I keep hearing the same old arguments: Obama doesn't have enough experience. Well, by that logic who does? Only people who served as President actually have the experience of being President, and we have term limits for a reason. So let's extend the experience argument to people who are related to someone who have been President. Recent history proves that not to be true, and I will take it one step further. What are the odds that two people in the same family, let alone the same town are equally qualified to hold the highest office in the land? This is not a popularity contest or a position that should be awarded based on patronage, this is the Presidency of the United States. We need the best and the brightest, not someone related to the best and the brightest.
So Obama has never been President before or related to a President.

Certain people just break the stereotypical molds. Don't hate them for it.

So what's really bugging you? Whatare your real motive? Why are some Hillary supporters threatening to leave the party simply because the majority disagree with them. I can come to no other conclusion than to believe they are either upset that it won't be a female, or that it will be a black man who wins the nomination. Look I am no fool, so don't sugar coat it, just say you are a racist, or you are a feminist and move on with your ignorant selfish lives.

This is the ugly truth noone is talking about. Whenever I ask my friends or relatives, (low income whites), why they are not voting for Obama, they sadly reveal that while they know very little about either of their platforms, they just are noting voting for a black man. Except they don't say black man. I call them on it. I call them what they are..Bigots.

Chris Philly (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:01 AM)

"FACTS" from the Clinton's delegate website:

"FACT: Pledged delegates and automatic delegates are the same - they each count for ONE vote."

False: Each pledged delegate equals at least 10,000 voices (votes), each superdelegate equals 1 person's individual interest. They are not equal.

"FACT: Neither candidate can secure the nomination without automatic delegates. "

True: But if a few hundred "automatic delegates" over turn a majority vote cast by millions of people, then the Democratic party will be disenchfranchised.

"FACT: Automatic delegates are expected to exercise their best judgment in the interests of the nation and the Democratic Party. "

True: See previous

"FACT: Florida and Michigan should count, both in the interest of fundamental fairness and honoring the spirit of the Democrats' 50-state strategy. "

False: It was established before the election began that Florida and Michigan would not count. Your name was the only one on the ballot in Michigan and 40% showed up just to vote against you. In Florida, Obama supporters stayed at home because they knew their vote would not count. This would be disenfranchising to those voter's in Florida who did acknowledge the rules.

"FACT: There is a clear path to an overall delegate majority (pledged + automatic) for Hillary Clinton after all states have voted -- with or without Florida and Michigan. "

Half-True: But if you don't win every state from here on out by at least 65% or better, you will not be able to win the pledged delegate count, and honestly, 65% or better at this point is impossible. So the only true path you have is to win on account of "automatic delegates" which would require overturning the voter's choice and disenfranchising millions of voters, surely bursting any possibilities of us uniting for a victory in November.

Blake, Denver, CO (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:02 AM)

Has anyone heard from Van ......

Where are his daily polls
Where is his analysis of why Obama won't carry 4 states, raise anymore money, draw large crowds.....

BTW in Jan. he raised more money than Hillary and McCain combined.

Obama 36 million
Hillary 13.5 million
McCain 12 million

Lyn,MD (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:03 AM)

Talk about the American Dream deferred or perverted!

What's wrong with this picture? I'm driving home and, in front of me, there's a woman on her cell phone in her black Nissan holding up traffic and, on her bumper to the left, is a bumper sticker reading: "Change ourselves, and we change the world!" and, to the right, another bumper sticker reading: "Hillary for President - 2008!"

Long after the light changed, I was polite and didn't honk. She then continued oblivious.

Roland Madore, Fort Collins, CO (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:04 AM)

The Rasmussen Reports give Obama a greater than 80% chance of becoming the Democratic nominee. I think it's safe to say that Billary is dead meat. She, and her scumbag husband Billy, should give it up and accept defeat. Let her go back to being a Senator for New York...or better yet go back to Hope, Arkansas.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/politics/election_20082/latest_results_from_rasmussen_markets

Bob - NC (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:07 AM)

As for Hillary, other than the tired old attacks against her, the only ads that can be run against her are those that attack her policy positions on the issues, which is what the election should be about, and since her policies are the same as Obama's, and she's already tested and vetted, she'll be able to defend the republican attack machine better.
Pat Huntington NY (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 9:44 AM
--------------------------------------------------
And she can DEBATE a room full of men in diapers and depends!

HP Boston (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:08 AM)

Time has come for people like Gores and Rengals and Schumers of democratic party to go to Chapaqua and let Billary know that game is over and for partys good make a way to crush Turncoat mole (McCain). Reed is not doing his job as Senate Majority leader so throw a bone to Hillary to make her Senate Majority leader. If she keeps doing this campaign until Texas and Ohio, I gurantee she will lose her senate seat when she is up for re-election.

John Damigo (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:09 AM)

Voter's across America are speaking loudly!Politic's as usual won't cut it anymore.

No doubt today, we'll see the Hillary gang still trying to tear Barack down. I won't vote for this man, i'm turning into a McCain Democrat, Yada, Yada, Yada.Go ahead & vote for the 100 year War man after 6 year's of Blameing GWB for taking us into the debacle called IRAQ.Go ahead & change party's after moaning for almost 28 year's now, about Reagon Democrat's leaving the party for Reagon.BTW, these Reagon Democrat's are coming back Home & voteing in droves for Barack. I just can't Understand that after all this time, We have someone who's shown time & time again, he's growing the Democratic Party & with that Possibly comes a working Democratic majority in Congress & yet, you all want to leave because he's Beaten the Vaunted Clinton Political Machine.

Sore Loser's & Not real Democrat's to begin with. Barack Obama has Been a Real Democrat since becoming an adult. Hillary Clinton started out as a Barry Goldwater girl(right down to the Cowgirl outfit) Republican.We finally can see the Whitehouse coming back to us & you want to leave!We see the Supreme Court Conservative Justice's tide turning back to us & you want to leave. It's hard for some of Us to Comprehend that the Tide has turned our way & Now, You want to leave.

I don't know about other's, but I say Leave & don't come back if you're Not Adult enough to face losing. Our side is gonna Win Big & you'll still be on the LOSEING side in November!

Barack Obama, the Next President of the United States of America!!!!!!!!!!

Rick,ky (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:09 AM)

Pat, Huntington, NY

GET OVER YOURSELF. I am a pretty moderate Democrat who usually votes for most Democrats on the ticket, although I have switched over for a few Republicans that were moderates as well. AND I SUPPORT OBAMA.

Just because your candidate isn't winning, and probably won't win, doesn't mean you have to be a sore loser. You can be gracious in defeat. It's when a person's true character shows. Instead, what do you do, you call the rest of us names and cry like a little baby. GROW UP!!!

People are turning out in insane numbers on the Democratic side. That is a good thing. Now, if everyone can look at the big picture, most will agree that we don't want an angry old codger who wants 100 year wars, multiple wars, and has now flip-flopped and wants huge tax cuts for the rich as President. McCain is a war hero, but he is a terrible candidate for President. We don't need a continuation of Bush policies. That is pretty clear among the electorate.

MNDem (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:09 AM)

jean999....the entire Obama movement is creepy to me. I'm afraid the media has created a monster, the likes of which we've never seen before. The thought of this guy having his hand near the "nuclear button" makes me shudder. He has no experience, and yet presumably a majority of democrats are willing to trust him with the pulse of this Nation. Perhaps they should all take another look, and also another look at his piece of work wife. How she gets away with saying that "this is the first time in my adult life that I have been proud of this country" us beyond me. Last night on MSNBC, Norah O'Donnell kept insisting that Michelle Obama had said "this is the first time in my adult life that I have REALLY been proud of this country", but when they played the tape, the word REALLY was not spoken by Mrs. Obama. Another example of slanted journalism. And then Gene Robinson had the gall to defend Mrs. Obama's words, saying that since she said "REALLY been proud". In his opinion, that made all the difference. Sorry Gene-O....the word was never spoken on the soundbite I heard.

If Barack Obama is the Democratic candidate, I will, for the first time in my adult life, vote Republican. I would rather trust in John McCain than a green newby like Obama.

Good Help Us!

Don, Dayton, OH (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:10 AM)

Now she is secretly organizing a 527 called "A.L.P."

The party elders need to throw the towel in for her . . .before she burns the party up.

Read about A.L.P. at http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalpunch/2008/02/new-pro-clinton.html

EJ (Sent Wednesday, February 20, 2008 10:11 AM)

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