Where Edwards goes next

Jamie, Salt Lake, Utah — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 19:45:46 GMT

Edwards will go above Clinton tomorrow probably.

Where Edwards goes next

arg, sc — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 19:49:01 GMT

The right moment for Edwards appears to be 2012.

Where Edwards goes next

Kathryn in Bham — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 19:56:41 GMT

Out of curiosity, what about Edwards leaves him trailing in N.H.? I don't know much about the voters there, but I really think that Obama and Edwards have very similar appeal - they both advocate change from the working man's stand. I wonder what sets Obama so far ahead in this area...

Where Edwards goes next

Brett, Pittsburgh, PA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 19:58:06 GMT

He's also effectively pushed obama to be a CHANGE candidate instead of a HOPE candidate- in reality obama has very few progressive ideas and is basically a corporate democrat who doesn't ACT like one in his speeches, but does in his finances. if edwards leaves then he'll go back to being more about hope than progress. its similar to how ned lamont got the iraq war to be the #1 issue last year, except john has made the american people the #1 issue(what a novel concept). if edwards sticks around and loses then the democratic party will FINALLY become a progressive party again. if he leaves we'll continue to just get by.

Where Edwards goes next

American Voter — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:01:42 GMT

Sounds like wishful thinking on Trippi's part.

Where Edwards goes next

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:03:39 GMT

If Edwards is to stay in the race for the nomination, then he has to stay visible and come in at least second in any primary or caucus that comes up. He also has to hope that both Obama and Clinton beat each other up enough for him to make his move. It can't be too late and much after the last primaries and caucuses. There still need to be some left. If it goes much beyond Febuary 5th with little chance of Obama slowing down, it might be the end of Edwards' campaign. New Jersey is coming and I need to make up my mind.

Where Edwards goes next

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:03:46 GMT

It would take nothing short of Obama and another woman story to destroy him now. Hillary gave it her best shot and it blew up in her face. The best Edwards can hope for is to pass Hillary.

Face it Hillary lovers, your girl is finished. I feel Nevada will be the line in the sand for Hillary Clinton.

Where Edwards goes next

Bruce, NV — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:07:11 GMT

Is he taken seriously as a candidate? If so, by who?

Where Edwards goes next

Pat, Boston, MA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:08:55 GMT

I have enjoyed having John Edwards in the campaign. His wife also.

It's too bad the corporate media had to put such a huge price on this election with advertising. We all needed to hear Dennis Kucinich's message. The whole country. It was an important one. But profits being profits ........... that's democracy for ya.

Dennis Kucinich - Peacekeeper.

Where Edwards goes next

fabooj — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:15:56 GMT

"Gov. Moonbeam"?

Are you 6?
Is this 1991?
Can you guys write anything about Democrats without resorting to GOP framing?

Where Edwards goes next

DCortez, Houston, Texas — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:16:24 GMT

$400.00 haircuts, but he's not the candidate of wealth, glamour, or glitz? No wonder John and Hillary are trailing Obama.

Where Edwards goes next

PollM, Dallas TX — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:16:31 GMT

The Power of Emotional Speeches

Does "Like Preaching" method of communication inspire people to a higher level?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1468

.

Where Edwards goes next

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:17:31 GMT

National Review and David Brooks support Obama!
and dumb Obama supporters can't see the scam!

After the 2004 election, Repub strategists admitted John Edwards was the one they feared most. And so - they targeted Kerry - knowing the Dems would rush to him in Iowa. It worked!

Now the RNC is manipulating Dems again.
Different strategy - same goal - to deliver a candidate that won't win the general.

The RNC wants to run against Hillary or Obama.
Dems are so easy!

Where Edwards goes next

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:19:19 GMT

John Edwards has had the CHANGE mantra since he announced his candidacy.
Obama copied that and other Edwards ideas!
Go Edwards!

Where Edwards goes next

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:20:44 GMT

You know - I might feel more comfortable with Obama if the media had scrutinized him at all.
But they haven't.
The media has given him a pass on everything!
God help us if he's the nominee! Dems will lose!

Where Edwards goes next

framecop, Raleigh, NC — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:23:25 GMT

Democrats will eventually realize that John Edwards has the best chance of winning in November.

Edwards beats all Republicans in Ohio, outside the margin of error. Clinton and Obama do not.

http://www.daytondailynews.com/n/content/oh/story/news/state/2008/01/05/ddn010608edwards.html

Edwards beats all Republicans in NC, outside the MOE, Clinton and Obama do not.

http://publicpolicypolling.blogspot.com/2007/12/general-election-poll-president.html

John Edwards beats two Republicans in Oklahoma of all places, is within the MOE against Huckabee, while Clinton and Obama lose by 20-30 points against Republicans, there.

http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=071226_1_A1_hButC86400

John Edwards' goal is to get it down to him versus Obama. At that time, the argument may be made that Edwards is the Democrats' best chance to win in November, because you have to win "states" (electoral college) in order to win a General Election.

Over the course of the year, Obama has been weak against Republicans on a "state-by-state" level. Therefore, he would be a "weak" General Election candidate, and a drag on other Democrats, down the ballot.

Where Edwards goes next

Sierra, SF — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:23:36 GMT

John Edwards is a good man
I alternated between supporting him and Obama
They're both reformers and insurgents

Obama/Edwards would be our strongest ticket
Let's hope this comes about

If Obama wins New Hampshire by a greater margin than Iowa, it seems the time for Edwards to bow out

But, then that would seem to be the logical place for Hillary to bow out, too

Hopefully, after a NH victory the Democrats will coalesce around Obama

Edwards deserves a place on the ticket

I'd have a HEART ATTACK if Hillary weaseled her way on it !

Obama/Edwards '08

PS
anybody notice the new talking points from Team Clinton ?
Where's the beef ?
Give us specifics ?
Hopefully, they won't include muslim or cocaine in their campaign death throes

What ever happened to van, Merle, Susan, Miami and Psychic Mary ?

Bye, Bye !!

Where Edwards goes next

Richard, Palatka, FL — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:24:24 GMT

Kathryn - did you see the interview with an Obama supporter AFTER the Iowa caucus? She didn't even know his positions - and through the reporter learned she did NOT support his positions.

Perhaps many Iowans voted for HOPE - not for Obama's positions which are downplayed with hype and platitudes.

Obama - just another empty suit the media prefers.

Where Edwards goes next

ace — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:28:10 GMT

you will always find someone that has a reason to be negative.

Where Edwards goes next

MK,MO — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:29:45 GMT

edwards is in pretty good shape looks like to me, hillarys done, and anyone that has paid any attention to this campaign knows edwards was the change candidate from the beginning, obama has adopted the change slogan but what change does he stand for, obama is a little too cozy with the corporate crowd for me and in the beginning he didn't try to hide that fact like he is now, edwards is the only candidate that has stayed on target with his message and plans, I look for him to bring that up once the hillary gives up, this is far from over yet, edwards can win the general election obama can't

Where Edwards goes next

Red Foreman, WI — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:32:10 GMT

jerry/ [[Face it Hillary lovers, your girl is finished. I feel Nevada will be the line in the sand for Hillary Clinton]]

Does the mob still run Vegas? If so, Hillary's got a good chance in NV.

Where Edwards goes next

SQ - New Jersey — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:37:18 GMT

This is an interesting play and I'm wondering if this is simply a way for Obama and Edwards to keep the tandem god cop bad cop attack on HRC throughout the primary. I hope so because the worst thing that could happen to the Democrats would be nominating HRC. Nominating HRC GUARANTEES a GOP victory - put the money in the bank right now.

On the subject of Edwards, I find the media's absolute refusal to include him the conversation really disheartening. He gets no coverage and no respect. The MEDIA has chosen to make this a 2 horse race. Point in case, Edwards received the fewest questions and time to speak during the recent debate. Russert and his roundtable (Andrea, David, and Chuck) never mentioned JRE during the 30 minutes I watched the show Sunday. And MSNBC's Chris Matthews fawns over Obama like a smitten school girl. Sadly, MSNBC is not alone in this lack of coverage - its the same on CNN and FNC (to the extent they even cover Dems). It's really unfortunate because the more people hear JRE and come to understand his message and passion the more they like him.

Where Edwards goes next

Kathryn in Bham — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:37:45 GMT

Richard,
I didn't catch that. I think it is interesting, though. I am a huge supporter of change - and hope and all of the great things that each of these candidates seems to be advocating. However, I think it takes more than just a man with a vision. Unlike Hillary, I do think the power of words is awesome. As another blogger pointed out earlier, doesn't she remember the "I have a dream" speech? I am from Birmingham, Alabama. I KNOW the power of words and what change they bring about. I also believe that Obama is a great idealist. However, I think we need to examine more closely his actions. I would like to know more about him - the meat of the man. I would also like to know more about all of the candidates.

It is definately one thing to sit back and talk, or to have the desire for change and the hope of a better tomorrow. And it is one thing to talk change and walk the way of the beaten path.

Where Edwards goes next

Peter, Pittsburgh, PA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:38:08 GMT

fabooj wrote, ""Gov. Moonbeam"?
Are you 6?
Is this 1991?
Can you guys write anything about Democrats without resorting to GOP framing?"

You have to remember fabooj that Domenico is to reporting what Fox News is to the news.

Where Edwards goes next

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:40:18 GMT

What ever happened to van, Merle, Susan, Miami and Psychic Mary ?

Bye, Bye !!

Sierra, SF (Sent Monday, January 07, 2008 3:23 PM)

If I was a Clinton supporter....
And I saw that pout at the debate Saturday night....
I wouldn't be on here today either.....

I'm sure our pollster will be back shortly.....

Where Edwards goes next

STS, Los Angeles, CA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:44:06 GMT

Edwards is the most viable democratic candidate we have. I like Obama as well but I just don't see him standing up to McCain or the other strong Republican candidates and that scares me. I agree with framecop, Edwards is just trying to wait out Hilary, if he can be succesful in that quest I think more people will realize the ticket should be Edwards/Obama and not the other way around. I just hope Hilary realizes she needs to drop out sooner than later. Here's hoping!

Where Edwards goes next

Harry, Los Angeles — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:45:07 GMT

How about Edwards/Obama?

Looks like Obama will run the board. Hopefully, HRC will bow out after Nevada and leave John and Barack to debate the finer points of change and progressivism.

Too bad it's all about who shows up best on TV. Obama is a GREAT speaker. He does not, however, have the passion for change behind his speaking ability that Edwards has. And we are dying (literally) for change.

If Obama wins, rather than Edwards, then John should either be VP or AG. He absolutely must be an important part of the next administration -- best as Pres, 2nd best as VP or AG.

Where Edwards goes next

Margie, Salinas, California — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 20:56:02 GMT

Do we Really want a President with a Terrorist's NAME? Or a Woman, who I do not believe can stand up to All the Other Men in other Countries. I wouldn't want the other countries to think we were WEAK.

Where Edwards goes next

Felix, Littleton CO — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:03:31 GMT

Just because some Republicans may be supporting Obama because they think Edwards is more electable doesn't mean they're right. The conventional wisdom is imploding .

If all those white indies in Iowa and New Hampshire really ARE willing to vote for a black guy named Obama then maybe that particular piece of common wisdom has expired. As for a supposed lack of media scrutiny, the Clintons have done their best to find and push dirt and they couldn't get anything to stick. Besides, there IS no candidate the other side can't try to swiftboat. So that's a given with anybody.

And most important, how accurate has the smirking, superior pundit approved common wisdom proved to be lately. MSNBC,CNN and everyone else had it Clinton Giuliani, wake me for the general. Fox is so stunned by the death of the inevitability of Clinton against Giuliani, they don't know WHAT talking points to parrot anymore. These media folks ( with a few exceptions) simply don't know what they're talking about anymore. They are like a bunch of old generals fighting the last war. Ignore them.

Where Edwards goes next

Angie, Bloomfield NJ — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:12:13 GMT

So far this process has shown me that the media is a big part of the momentum for Barack. Barack sounds good but there is no substance in his speeches and yet people who are tauted as having insight and intelligence are being swept into a frenzy over a buzz word. The media has just about locked Edwards out of the conversation and this disappoints me.

Where Edwards goes next

Leslie, Lawrenceburg, Indiana — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:12:41 GMT

Edwards / Obama 08!!!!!! Edwards has the plans, the passion , and the patriotism for the job. Obama has copied Edward's plans so he might as well be on the ticket with him. Come on NH and all other Dems support John Edwards as he is the ONLY one that can beat the Republicans and most important of all he can lead this country. Edwards is FOR THE PEOPLE!!

Where Edwards goes next

SN, MN — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:15:57 GMT

Obamarama, the messiah candidate. Don't tell me liberals can't be religious. The Kumbayah Democrats are going to thow another election to the Rebublicans.

Where Edwards goes next

PollM, Dallas TX — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:16:59 GMT

Edwards' Impassioned Plea

Who's more likely to benefit from John Edwards' vote, if he were to exit the Presidential Race?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1467

.

Where Edwards goes next

Richard Kelley — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:23:35 GMT

One of the places Edwards is going is Washington State, which is the biggest prize in the weekend after Super Tuesday. His organization here is strong and growing.
And yes, despite what your Political Calendar says, all of Washington's Democratic delegates and half of the Republican delegates will be chosen in caucuses on Saturday, February 9. The Feb. 19 "primary" is just a beauty contest on the Democratic side.

Where Edwards goes next

Jenny, Des Moines — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:24:25 GMT

I am an Edwards' supporter and I think that he is most likely to win, but it appears that the Democratic voters are again stupid and refuse to consider him.

However, I like the idea of him staying in the race. He can push Obama and make him a stronger candidate.

If, somehow, Edwards can get 2nd in New Hampshire tomorrow (some polls have him only 6 points down from Clinton), things could get interesting. Clinton would be effectively done. And suddenly, we would need to know where Clinton's support would go---Obama or Edwards.

A lot of this is pretty unrealistic, but a person can dream. I do know that I will continue to financially support Edwards while he is in the race. Obama will see none of my money.

Where Edwards goes next

Joe Deershorn — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:38:27 GMT

The media is making the Iowa and New Hampshire primaries much more important than they really are. Neither state is really representative of the national population. The real test of the candidates comes on Super Tuesday. All the rest is preliminary, regardless of what the "pundits" say in the newspaper and on TV. The media has a self-serving reason for exaggerating the importance of the earliest primaries. It inflates their audience.

Where Edwards goes next

Sandra, Reno, NV — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:48:24 GMT

We know why Hillary shouldn't be the candidate. But why Edwards rather than Obama?

- Prior to this presidential run, Obama accepted over $1 mil in contributions from PACs, lobbyists & corporations, including healthcare providers and oil companies. His personal PAC, HopeFund, received thousands from defense contractors and the insurance industries. (Uhm, hope for who?) He's been endorsed by 16 lobbyists.

John Edwards has *never* accepted money from lobbyists or PACs and no lobbyist has endorsed him. Obama agreed to no lobbyist and PAC *after* Edwards threw down that gauntlet.

Is Obama really "bringing people together" as he keeps saying? Sure. Problem: They're not people most of us *want* brought together. As Glenn Hurowitz writing in the Huffington Post points out, he's brought together corporate execs and rightwing republicans and he ended up supporting an expanded NAFTA (so much for being pro-union), liquid coal (which doubles the rate of global warming) and the Shrub's 2005 energy bill which included billions of dollars worth of subsidies to oil, coal and nuclear companies. He also voted in support of credit-card companies, letting them raise their interest rates above 30 percent.

John Edwards, on the other hand, opposed the expansion of NAFTA and opposes liquification of coal. He won the endorsement of Friends of the Earth (who are anti-coal) and the United Mine Workers (who like coal). Now that's my idea of bringing people together.

He has a health care plan and is sure that people will sign on if not mandated. Maybe, maybe not. I suppose it would depend on if they could afford it. But then why did he fail to support raising the minimum wage until John Edwards publically challenged him on it?

It wouldn't take much to just keep going on like this. John Edwards *is* the best candidate. He not only envisions the change, but he has the courage and determination to lead our fight to make the vision of a better America for us and our kids/grandkids a reality.

Where should he be taken seriously? Every where, starting with New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada.

Where Edwards goes next

pmorlan, Louisville, KY — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:54:22 GMT

Where Edwards goes next

niss, Chapel Hill, NC — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:00:01 GMT

~ Edwards/Obama or Obama/Edwards ~

Personally, I don't think John Edwards is suffering too much at the moment from the lack of media attention. The media has never really "gotten" Edwards, so it's to his advantage to stay off their radar for as long as he can. Meanwhile, his message continues to grow amongst its grassroots base. By the time he finally receives the attention he deserves, it will (hopefully) be too late for them to tarnish him with more bullsh*t "he's so vain" or "trial lawyer" labeling.

@Bruce, NV: In response to your question, "Is he taken seriously as a candidate," it would seem the answer is yes. :-) I know that I was a bit skeptical when he first announced his candidacy in '04, but mostly because I didn't want to lose a solid democratic Senator in NC - not something we've had enough of, unfortunately. I think it bears noting that Edwards' Senatorial career began by beating Lauch Faircloth, making him the Junior Senator to Jesse Helms. If you don't think this guy can appeal to a broad audience, you're not paying attention.

Where Edwards goes next

Felix, Littleon CO — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:00:17 GMT

What IS important about New Hampshire and Iowa is all those lily white indies. The next presidential election will be determined by indies and if all those white indies are willing to go for Obama, that particular argument, not ready for a black guy, is off the table. We can all stop debating woman vs black guy vs white guy and worry about stuff that matters. The overwhelming majority of Republicans isn't going for any Dem anyway so we don't need really to sweat the red neck racist vote.

Where Edwards goes next

Mary Moretti Kalamazoo, MI — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:02:54 GMT

The media is attempting to manipulate the elections yet again. Just as when they provided coverage for Bush in both elections, and then helped him push us into Iraq.

John Edwards has lead this presidential campaign, Obama and Clinton have both stolen ideas from his platform, neither cared enough about the issues to actually put forward solutions of their own. Both of them, Obama and Clinton have taken more from the health insurance lobbies than even the republican candidates, more than two million apiece. Obama, the so called activist, voted for a bill that denied citizens the right to sue corporations whose products, food, medicine, etc.. were poisonous, contaminated, sickened, maimed or killed loved ones. Obama is Bush, so is Clinton. I'll never vote for either of them.

I'm voting Edwards, he's the only candidate who cares to save our nation.

Where Edwards goes next

Mark Kraft — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:15:12 GMT

John Edwards does not have the copyright on the idea of change.

Take a look at Barack Obama's announcement speech for his candidacy on his website,... he must've drummed home the word change about a dozen times.

If the best Edwards supporters can do is basically say "...but John said it first!"... and not even be right about that, well, they're certainly not going to go anywhere in the polls that way.

Where Edwards goes next

John Alexander,Edinboro,PA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:23:47 GMT

No news here, quit wasting time with nonsense!

Where Edwards goes next

ki houston — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:40:18 GMT

if you guys really belivie any republican can beat obama ,its time for you to go back to those mettings

Where Edwards goes next

ki houston — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:47:26 GMT

for you people that say you need to know more about obama or he needs to be vetted more , where have you been the last year . I know more about this guys views and background than my own mother . For godness sake is that all you haters have left . if so just go home and chill out cause its over

Where Edwards goes next

Atul, NYC — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:48:39 GMT

Several months ago I thought that Obama and Hillary would tear each other to pieces and Edwards would step through the melee. I no longer think so. Even Edwards and his campaign team seem awed by the inspirational power of Obama. Edwards is doing the smart thing - getting Hillary out of the way and ensuring himself the Vice Presidency.

Where Edwards goes next

Irving E, San Diego, CA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:55:20 GMT

Super Tuesday will not save Hillary Clinton and neither will her husband. It's over ( See tears of frustration today ). Edwards made a brilliant tactical move in attacking her in the debate, he can sense her demise. Look forward to Obama and Edwards going mano a mano. NO to Clinton / Bush Dynasty !!

Where Edwards goes next

isM — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 23:26:11 GMT

If Obama is the nominee, I fear we will have a Republican president.

How is Obama going to solve the world problems? Hope them to death...
I hope for a somewhat sane Republican like Bloomberg.

Where Edwards goes next

Emmie, Helena MT — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 23:31:34 GMT

To Margie in Salinas California-
I can't believe some people are still harping on Obama's middle name! No one can help what they are named. That's like not voting for someone because they have the same name as a person you don't like! Support or contend the candidate on their stances on the issues, not on their middle name!
Good Grief Girl! Get it together!

Where Edwards goes next

s_vitreus — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 23:36:36 GMT

An 'O' to wish... An 'O' to hope...

It is an old saying that you can wish/hope in one hand and @#%? in the other. That sticks with me over the results in Iowa and now leading into the NH primaries.

The week before the Iowa caucuses 3 different polls had 3 different results for leaders in Iowa. First Edwards leads in the Lee Poll, then Hillary in the ABC/WP poll, and then Obama in the DMR poll just prior to the caucus. Now in NH we are seeing the polls leveling out in the race for first but it is up a horse race for second place. EDWARDS HAS TO TAKE SECOND FOR ANY HOPE OF CHANGE IN GOVERNMENT FOR THIS COUNTRY. What is sad is the networks and the cable talking heads are all setting up the general election for us.

I have to say it, is interesting that Tim Russert and NBC’s "MEET THE PRESS" gave Obama a very nice 30 minute Campaign Commercial taped directly at the NBC affiliates studio in DM just the Sunday before the caucus (HUCK got the other 30 minutes). The reason I call it a commercial is because Mr. Russert stood 45 feet away lobbing softballs in for Obama to hit over the fence so they could set up Thursdays results. Now this weekend he Russert had McCain on for 30 minutes (he was impressive), but then they went to the print media’s talking heads. I was kinda’ hoping for 30 minutes with EDWARDS, or even 30 minutes with HRC so I could have yelled at the TV on Sunday morning, but instead we got to hear about the independent spirit of the NH voters. The way that Russert and Matthews are in love with Obama makes me want to see what their valentine cards to him say, my guess would be steamy.

Here’s the thing, the political advertising dollars in this race scares me, actually the political advertising dollars in politics scare me. I think the Obama victory gives credence to that. The Media in this country wants the candidate with the 125 million dollar war chest because it comes back to them in advertising. In Iowa alone Obama spent nearly 9.5 million in TV advertising, Clinton spent 7.5 Million, Edwards only 3 Million. This is not to mention what was spent in phone bank, mailings, flyers, newsprint, radio ... With the conglomeration ownership of our US media it is in their best interest to have the party candidate with the most dollars to spent in the race no matter what they represent as long as they won't mess with campaign finance reform. That is the strange thing Edwards is the only candidate talking about how the entire campaign finance system is still corrupt and how it is not about message it is about dollars.

Someone will now post what about "HUCK", he will be down for the count by Super Tuesday and the Republican Machine will fund whoever their candidate is regardless. That is where they truly stick together. All though I don’t think “HUCK” cannot get the independent vote. That is where McCain scares me in NH and SC even though he still supports Iraq he has the “EARNED” respect of many likely voters (he has my respect).

If you look at who went out and voted for Obama you have to realize that those numbers will not translate in a national race. As much as I would like to see 53% of voters under the age of 30 (MSNBC numbers) it is never going to happen nationally I don't care who you put on the ticket. The upper Midwest has extremely high voter turnout nationally (2004 - MN 1st 77.2%, WI 2nd 76.2%, IA 7th 69.7%) and I wish the rest of the country was like that but it isn't (2004 - NH 4th 71.1%, ME 3rd 73.4%). http://www.nonprofitvote.org/resources/todata/?gclid=CKL3-Nvo3JACFQYBkgod40riOQ None of those states are going to decide a national election by themselves based on their electoral college value of each individual state because their high turnout gets the same value in relation to electoral college votes as states that have voter turnout below 55% (2004 – SC 50th 52.8%, TX 49th 53.1%, WV 48th 54.1%, AR 47th 54.1%, MS 46th 54.9%, NV 45th 55.0%). I want a ticket that did what Regan did in 1984 a clear and decisive victory. I also had 2 neighborhood kids home from college from Iowa on winter break that went back early just to caucus for Obama. I wonder how many college students from WI, IL, and MN flocked back to the state and help make up that 53% of voters under 30 that MSNBC reported and will we have that during the election or are they absentee back to their home state.

Edwards has the best populist message that resonates to electorates across the country and reminds us of T-REX, FDR, JFK, Bobby Kennedy, and Jimmy Carter. He can win states in the south, and he can bring trade workers back to the party that left for Regan’s economic message and never came back.

Make no mistake about it; there are real differences with the change candidate. Edwards health care plan covers every American and leaves no DOUGHNUT hole ( http://obamatruth.org/ ), he is against the trade deals that our congress has recently passed while Obama voted for hurting our US Agriculture and Manufacturing. John Edwards has also spoke out against the re-birth of nuclear power in America, while both Clinton and Obama are all for re-issuing agreement to prolong the life and waste storage at our countries aging nuclear power plants (it floors me that Kucinich pushed his voters to Obama because of this issue). Edwards has the most comprehensive environmental and energy policy that truly creates high tech jobs in America. Not to mention Obama has skirted key votes in the Senate while campaigning, like the Iranian Guard vote. He basically said it was a mistake and he was busy running for president. Where does that leave us as Americans in the future if Iran becomes an issue and the war drums beat again? If he is President in January of 2009 he can say he never voted for or against it so now we can go in and it is business as usual – no voting record behind him on that issue so where does that leave us.

Obama’s message of hope scares me; I also hope to win the lottery, and that is just hope. Does that put it into perspective? I think he may be the best public speaker running for office (has trouble in debates), he reminds me of the big tent revival evangelicals of old or of any of the Sunday morning sky pilots who have the direct link to the almighty himself only rather than GOD he preaches of hope and unity. It reminds me of GWB in 2000 who ran on compassion and unity; the really scares me. When he speaks of hope it is his version of hope with no substance of what makes up his vision, just as GWB spoke of compassion, but his version of compassion ended up being far different than the general public’s. All I am saying is the rhetoric must have substance and answers behind it, not just words that are put to a focus group and make us feel good but are nothing but empty words. As Ben “COOTER” Jones said, “Hillary is the ‘past candidate’, Obama very well maybe the ‘future candidate’ of the Democratic Party but I do not think he is the ‘present candidate’ that currently is John Edwards.

Edwards is the candidate that can get out there and bring in the most diverse cross-section of the electorate, protect current House and Senate seats and probably gain margins there as well.

Edwards beats every republican candidate in the CNN general election poll in mid December that weighted the front runners against each other. He wins every general election poll (all posted) against all republican candidates listed on real clear politics by the widest margin. http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2008/president/national.html

But most important he wins individual states against the majority of the republican field with McCain being his “Achilles Heel” in some but still fairs better than HRC or OBAMA in those situations. To the Democratic Party faith full these numbers don’t matter but to independents they do, and the numbers are telling us on a state by state basis that Edwards can win the most decisively and the most effectively but the media and the party powers that be are never going to allow it.

Edwards is the choice for America's working class.

Think about this – “Edwards/Obama 2008” – That ticket could do for the Democratic Party and Independent voters what Regan/Bush did for the Republican Party in 80, 84, and Bush/Quayle in 88. They could get this country in an unbelievable place over the next 16 years. That ticket could truly “CHANGE” the world.

An 'O' to wish... An 'O' to hope...

Where Edwards goes next

Nancy Viano, Springfield, VA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 23:54:47 GMT

Although I believe voters in both Iowa and New Hampshire take their early voting status seriously and look at candidates carefully, WHY ON EARTH is the media and everyone else so quick to be calling for candidates to bow out of the race based on results in these two small, non-representative states?? Most of America has not even had a chance to vote yet - does this not bother anyone else?? Isn't it fair and right to have a few more elections before the media, preening in its power, declares that it's time for this candidate or that one to be shown the door?? Here's a radical thought - why don't we actually wait for the conventions to pick nominees?

The media has tried for months, shamelessly and obviously, to make the Democratic race a horserace between Clinton and Obama. Edwards, Biden, Dodd, Richardson and Kucinich have NEVER gotten anything like fair coverage by the press. Edwards has always been the best candidate, in terms of both what he's running to accomplish and his electability in the general election. He has thorough, well-thought out proposals for addressing the most serious problems facing America. He also accurately describes how corporate greed and money-driven politics have stolen the government from ordinary citizens and what we must do to get it back. Republicans and Independents, when they actually have a chance to hear what he's saying, like what they hear.

If the media would give Edwards anything like the coverage they have lavished on Obama and Clinton, people could hear his passion, see his character and intelligence, and weigh his proposals fairly. As it is, the media talks about him, when they talk about him at all, as an afterthought -- someone they have to include in the debates but who hasn't got any kind of real chance of being elected.

What really bugs me is that the media acts like it has had no role at all in pumping up the celebrity front runners when, in my estimation, it has been shaping this race all along. I have never been so conscious as during this primary season of the power held by the media to create and change the news by what it chooses to cover and what it chooses to ignore. I have never been so angry about it before, either.

Edwards will keep fighting. His supporters, like me, will keep fighting with him. We may just surprise everyone over the long haul, because he really is the best candidate and the one who should be elected President. Maybe, if given half a chance to see, a majority of Americans will come to that conclusion, too.

Where Edwards goes next

Greg, New Hampshire — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 23:56:43 GMT

Here is a little bit that might interest the general public... Read and come to your own decision. I was VERY disappointed after reading this....

http://thepage.time.com/letter-to-afscme-president-mcentee/

Where Edwards goes next

Greg, New Hampshire — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:02:38 GMT

If you look at your international reactions, Obama is making an uproar around the world and he hasn't occupied the oval office as yet. I don't think ANY president in the history of this country has EVER had such significant global impact! He is changing things ALREADY!!! Berlin, Germany is already for Obama in 2008! I don't think ANY of the other candidates could make that sort of positive impression. That speaks a lot when it comes to international affairs!

Where Edwards goes next

R_Paura — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 02:15:26 GMT

Integrity, fortitude, vision and compassion are most needed for constructive change in our world. While I can't vote, I do pay attention and pray that the voters to evaluate what they are being told against the ability of those to deliver.

Talk is cheap, but action gets the job done.

At the end of these preliminaries, perhaps rationale heads shall prevail and an Edwards/Obama ticket can guide and deliver a better tomorrow for all our children.

A concerned fellow citizen of this planet.

Where Edwards goes next

Lawrence Rasie — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 03:14:12 GMT

I was a reporter for 30 years and retired early after a corporate takeover of my paper. So I know slanted coverage when I see it, and I see it throughout this election.
It is most notable in CNN and its look-alikes, but there is also a scary tendency in this direction by our national public media. Some days their news is full of Hillary and Obama, with a "you-too" nod to Edwards.
Yet, Edwards is the only TRUE progressive in the race, the only person who can correct the nearly thirty years of rightward movement in our nation.
Edwards has said he will restore fair, progressive tax structure, to erase our national debt and restore the dollar. Did you know that when the Eurodollar was launched, about seven years ago, that one U.S. dollar would get you about one and a half Euros. Did you also know that these days it takes about $1.40 to buy one Euro? Is that the product of a fiscally sound government???
I think neither Hillary or Obama is electable at this crucial time, and that Edwards will be a strong realist like Truman and FDR. And I think much of the attention now given Obama and Hillary is coming from the hard right, which wants either of them nominated because they can't win.
I will most certainly vote for Edwards, because he knows how vital it is to have a vibrant middle class in this democracy.

Where Edwards goes next

larry rasie — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 03:15:56 GMT

Edwards is the democratic, progressive strong man and will restore the U. S. to its former glory.

Where Edwards goes next

Howard, Sidney Center, NY — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 03:53:13 GMT

Edwards is only one or two endorsements away from really taking that next big step- a step that obama is now taking- that could propell him through to the convention....edwards is the best candidate out their right now but he may not get the endorsements he needs because he doesn't take any special interest money or lobby money.....lets hope he can hang around at the 25% level just long enough to get those 2 or 3 endorsements he needs!!!....wouldn't an Edwards/ Biden ticket look awesome right about now???

Where Edwards goes next

Rob, Atascadero, CA — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 06:17:37 GMT

The lack of press coverage for John Edwards is a sin against the American people being perpetrated by a corporate owned/monopolized media; the very people Edwards has in his sights! When the Democrats finally get the "real deal" they can't even recognize him. They're awed by the "same old thing in a new package". I'm looking for someone who can bring about the changes most wish to see, but it will never happen with any of the candidates on either side, because they all represent the status quo, with the exception of John Edwards. I'm part of his base and he is reason #1 that I am now a "Born again Democrat". I also think he will do very well in the western U.S. One thing we should be doing as supporters is visiting the other contenders' blogs and join in the discussions to express our views in a positive way. Rob

Where Edwards goes next

Michael, Bedford, NH — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 06:24:08 GMT

$400 haircuts are nothing compared to Obama's $160,000 from coal and nuclear executives. Roosevelt and Kennedy were both insanely wealthy and worked for regular Americans, as will Edwards--who unlike them has risen from poverty anyway. Get over the corporate rhetoric--if you're not voting for Edwards because of a haircut, you better not be voting for Clinton or Obama despite their enormous corporate contributions--nos. 1 and 2 recipients of health insurance company contributions.. Democrat or Republican. There is only one viable candidate of real change: John Edwards.

Where Edwards goes next

framecop, Raleigh, NC — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 19:52:59 GMT

Barack Obama will "hope" that the economy gets better.
Barack Obama will "hope" that Republicans in Congress get along with Democrats.
Barack Obama will "hope" that college costs go down.

Barack Obama isn't an agent of change. He's the same old thing. He's black so people think he's different because he looks different than what they are used to seeing in his position.

The fact is, EVERY YEAR candidates run on Obama's message of changing the tone in Washington and bringing people together to bring about change.

They don't run on Edwards' message of kicking oil and drug companies, and insurance companies in the mouth, and beating them on behalf of the American people, like he did on behalf of his clients in court, WHO GOT JUSTICE.

Obama's way doesn't work. It never has, and it never will, no matter how much water his supporters think he can walk on. Or maybe he can fly. After all, they think he "transcends" normal politics, even though is message is an old one...you hear it every year.

Where Edwards goes next

Nora, Providence, RI — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 02:47:11 GMT

framecop,
Right on. I have been voting since 1968, and all the candidates are "change agents", and usually very vague on the details. It is the oldest line in politics. I want someone with a plan. I want Gore, but since we aren't going to get him (experience, intelligence, vision), I will back Edwards. No one has said the things he is saying since the Progressive Era died. Edwards knows the people he is up against. He fought them in court, and he fought them in 2004. For all we will ever know, Kerry and Edwards won that election. Obama cannot deal with the Republicans with hope alone. Besides, no one has won the White House without taking the south. Does anyone seriously believe that the Republicans aren't going to play the race game down there in the fall if Obama is the Democratic candidate? Does anyone seriously believe it won't work? Do you think we are a post-racist society? Take a good, hard look at New Orleans and think again.

Where Edwards goes next

Sarah Stuart, Florida — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 02:58:49 GMT

Why do I feel like I am watching a high school popularity contest? Is this Homecoming Queen & Class President elections all over again????

Where Edwards goes next

susan sharpe — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 19:32:49 GMT

I think Edwards has the best chance of winning in the presidential election, because unfortunately Hillary and Obama polarized a lot of people. The Republicans probably stood a 10% chance of winning the presidency in 2008, but if the democratic candidates are narrowed down to Hillary and Obama, they now have a 90% change of winning. This is bad news, because having another four years of a Republican president will be devastating for America, along with the rest of the world.