FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Barbara Porto, Niagara Falls, New York — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:59:12 GMT

Hillary keeps referencing "experience" - exactly what experience does she have?? I was married to a school teacher for 25 years, does that make me qualified to be a school teacher?? Heck no! She has no more experiece than Obama, that is a nonsensical claim - you can't acquire experience by osmosis. Also, the phone ringing in the middle of the night in the presidential bedroom - how would she know what that was like? She never slept there.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Lisa, New Britain, CT — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 21:59:36 GMT

This strikes me as very dangerous waters in which to swim.

Be afraid, be very afraid.

Obama 08

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

LB, Virginia — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:03:17 GMT

There had better be some Obama supporters there or we will be on front line protesting!!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Enrique, Chicago — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:04:56 GMT

There must be re-votes in both Florida AND Michigan, or they must not be seated. Just because she's Hillary Clinton doesn't mean that she can rewrite the rules.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Cathey, TN — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:05:14 GMT

Count the delegate's with no do over's. It was a level playing field, no one campaigned there. She won fair and square. If you count them she is the fair winner...she has won more delegates. This will be the best for our party.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Edgar, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:07:29 GMT

"There will be no reps from the Obama or Clinton campaigns, nor will Howard Dean be there."

So Hastings isn't going to be there?

This is ridiculous. The delegations shouldn't be seated.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC VOTERS..WE MEAN WHAT WE SAY ! — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:07:34 GMT

WE VOTED IN FLORIDA, IN A COMPLETELY "FAIR ELECTION". THOSE RESULTS MUST BE ACCOUNTED FOR,AND THE DELEGATES MUST BE SEATED AT THE CONVENTION.IF THEY WERE TO HOLD A NEW ELECTION,IT WOULD BE UNFAIR.THE ELECTION WAS HELD IN JANUARY,WHEN "MOST" OF THE PART TIME RESIDENCES ARE IN FLORIDA. IF THEY DECIDE TO GO AGAINST THE WILL OF THE FLORIDA VOTERS, AND HOLD THE ELECTION AGAIN,IN MAY OR JUNE. THEN THEY "MUST" SEND BALLOTS OUT IN THE MAIL,SO THAT "ALL" CITIZENS OF FLORIDA ARE ALLOWED THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOTE.THIS MADDER MUST BE ADDRESSEED "IMMEDIATELY", OR THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY WILL "DEFINITLY" DISINFRANCHISE ALL FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC VOTERS. THAT WOULD NOT BE WISE !

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

twocanpete — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:12:28 GMT

Michigan and Florida need to quit whinning and suck it up. They broke the rules and now they have to deal with the consequences. It's called the rule of law and they need to get used to it!
http://twocanpete.blogspot.com

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

President Clinton 2 — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:13:41 GMT

How could a democrat candidate win any state without the black vote? That has never been done in my lifetime. But Hillary is doing it. Dosen't this mean she is the one who is bringing the party together? She has always been for us all and it took the black vote to put her husband and all other dems in office. All will get on her page when she is the nominee.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Jill Hill, Tallahassee, Florida — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:14:46 GMT

REPUBLICAN GOVENOR CRIST WANTS TO BE VICE PRESIDENT.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

campdog — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:15:40 GMT

It would be one thing if one candidate was miles ahead and the votes from these two states would not impact the final outcome but this is not the case. Clearly, every Democrat that wants to participate should have the right to express their choice.

This is not an easy task but in fairness it should be discussed until a reasonable compromise can be reached that is fair to both candidates as well as the Democrats of Florida and Michigan.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Tim Freedman — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:17:11 GMT

Good luck on this. This is a nice Democratic way of doing things. A back room deal that approximates the loose will of the people? Just say what you are doing and quit it with the clandestine meetings.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

ED H — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:17:26 GMT

-----------------------------------------------------
WHY WILL HILLARY NOT RELEASE HER "2006" INCOME TAX RETURNS? BECAUSE OF DUBAI INCOME RECEIVED !
----------------------------------------------------

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

antthony y, minneapolis,mn — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:19:40 GMT

It would be nuts not to allow the votes in Michigan and Florida to count. Barack was on the Ballot in Florida, and against the rules ran T.V. ads. Barack made the decision not to put his name on the Michigan ballot. Bad judgement again.

If Obama gets the nomination at the end of the day and because of him or his people, Florida and Michigan did not count, there will be backlsah from these states. They will both go republican in the General election. They need to count these now.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

DoM — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:19:56 GMT

Why would the Clintons want a do-over? Do-over will mean that Sen. Obama would be allowed to campaign in FL & MI - we can't have that, can we now?

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

antthony y, minneapolis,mn — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:20:45 GMT

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Janice Newton Orleans, Michigan — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:22:08 GMT

This michigander feels that if we are not counted now she will not be counted in November and there are many more like me. There are many things to be said here about the deligates and thats all well and fine, but the truth is our rights as voters are challanged here and you may think to dismiss us but who knows maybe in November we will dismiss you also and not vote. That is our stand.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Food for thought, CA — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:23:22 GMT

Why not take advantage of Governor Crist's offer? A do-over of the primary would be fair to everyone -- voters in Florida and voters across America.

Is there something Mr. Hastings fears from a do-over? Does he believe that the candidate he supports wouldn't do so well if Senator Obama got the chance to introduce himself personally to the voters of Florida? Since Senator Obama's presence campaigning in a state always raises his actual votes over prior polls, I think we can all be assured that this is exactly what Mr. Hastings fears.

Why not do a do-over? Food for thought.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

just the facts ma'am — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:23:52 GMT

In 1981 Judge Hastings was charged with accepting a $150,000 bribe in exchange for a lenient sentence and a return of seized assets for 21 counts of racketeering by Frank and Thomas Romano, and of perjury in his testimony about the case. He was acquitted by a jury after his alleged co-conspirator, William Borders, refused to testify in court (resulting in a jail sentence for Borders).

In 1988, the Democratic-controlled U.S. House of Representatives took up the case, and Hastings was impeached for bribery and perjury by a vote of 413-3. He was then convicted in 1989 by the United States Senate, becoming the sixth federal judge in the history of the United States to be removed from office by the Senate.

Alleged co-conspirator, attorney William Borders went to jail again for refusing to testify in the impeachment proceedings, but was later given a full pardon by Bill Clinton on his last day in office.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

DEMOCRAT,FL — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:24:52 GMT

MAKE MY VOTE COUNT
HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Dan, Ohio — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:25:47 GMT

It is suicide for the DNC to count Florida and Michigan out. To win the Presidency, swing state Florida is a must along with Ohio.

If they punish these two they retaliate by voting Republican. There goes DNC squander another chance of taking the White House.

Obama advertised in Florida. Shouldn't he be at the least get punished for that?

I say do not tick off these two states. Every state count in the general election. Think big picture.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

B. Smart — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:26:55 GMT

. . .Hell has no fury like a voter scorned if Clinton
tries to cheat with help from Michigan's RACIST plot to disenfranchise voters and illegally
seat ill gotten delegates. Another primary or nothing at
all. YOU DON'T KNOW SOME MICHIGANDERS VERY WELL. They will never stand for that. That's why
Hillary is known as a backstabbing divider, and will never get my vote.

OBAMA/EDWARDS 08.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

all american — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:33:19 GMT

Ok, here it goes. Here we have Two Democrats, Hillary and Obama, competing against each other. Democrats, yes democrats, who I noticed have a tendency to vote for-- guess which party--that is right—Democrats. Now, stay with my reasoning here; I will not go too fast for you, ok. Since the “Democrats” are voting for “Democratic Presidential Nominees” is it just possible, even plausible, and down right probable, that the “Democrats” will vote for a “DEMOCRAT” during the general election! Furthermore, and I will try not to get too complex here, since the “Democrats” have been turning out in record numbers to vote or Hillary or Obama (both of which are: democrats,) isn’t it probable that they will vote for a “DEMOCRATIC” candidate! Now comes the “tricky part.” Doesn’t this simply, and I mean very simple, basic logic suggest that Hillary’s argument that she can win the “Big Blue States” against another “DEMOCRAT” become meaningless? And finally, since Barrack Obama seems to be able to draw in independents better than Hillary, wouldn't he be (and I’m just spit balling here) A MORE ELECT ABLE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE—since he is leading in the popular vote and in pledged delegates that represent the will of the American People. Oh, rest assure, we Democrats will prevail because somewhere, I once read, yes, that’s’ it---A government for the people—by the people---Yes, yes They must have been talking about the “Super Delegates.” Not.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Eric Olson, Hyattsville, MD — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:33:35 GMT

How about this as a proposition:

For Florida, the results were semi-legitimate (Tim, Obama ran an ad on a national station that happened to be picked up in FL, while Clinton held multiple fundraisers in FL the week before the primary. Don't tell me either is worse than the other.) Because both Clinton and Obama were on the ballot, I suggest that we use the vote count that took place. However, in order to prevent this sort of thing in the future, we should penalize Florida; I would suggest removing 30-40% of their pledged delegates (and all the superdelegates, since many of them were the ones that made the decision to move the primary up). That is actually less than the GOP penalized FL and the other states that went early, so it would be more acceptable to the party of inclusion.

Michigan, since Obama was not on the ballot, essentially has to hold another primary or a caucus. Had everyone been on the ballot, I would suggest the same as Florida. We should still penalize MI's delagates the same way as FL, in order to discourage this sort of activity in the future.

Thoughts?

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Kathleen, Ca — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:35:35 GMT

Well, if Howard Dean isn't going to do something, at least the superdelegates are talking about it. I blame Dean for letting it get to this point. Make a decision! You're head of the DNC for cripes' sake!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Fred Mittelman McLean VA — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:48:37 GMT

How typical of the Clintons. To try to change the rules to better them. I remember HRC while she was at the Rose Law Firm trying to get the Federal Home Loan Bank Board to change its conflict of interest rules to allow her firm to work both sides of the street.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

PS, Amawalk, NY — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:51:22 GMT

If Hillary snatches the nomination through wily machinations, Obama should not be deterred to run as an independent

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Steve McNally, St. Louis — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:52:58 GMT

What are Hastings et.al., going to talk about? The rules are clear. The only thing they could do is go to court. Democrats suing Democrats. Should be quite a public display and interesting to watch. The final fight will be on the convention floor in Denver when the MI and FL delegates try to seat themselves.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:01:20 GMT

Hillary won fair and square.
No do-overs.
Seat her delegates!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Margaret, NYC — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:01:55 GMT

All candidates were on the ballot in Florida! - so there is NO need for a revote there!

And although they weren't supposed to campaign there - Obama ran TV ads - and claimed they were part of a cable package and Florida couldn't be omitted.

Yeah - riiiiight!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Andrea, Illinois — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:06:01 GMT

The only way this will be democratic is if the voters in those two states voted again or caucused.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Who's Sane — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:09:52 GMT

Let me guess, they will suggest that the state's delegates be awarded based upon a vote of the state's superdelegates or Democratic senators and representatives. Not that I am saying it is a bad way to do it without benefit of a valid popular vote.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Marty CR Iowa — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:29:16 GMT

I only wish Iowa would have a primary instead of the stupid caucus, let all who can get to the polling place vote and then winner take all, that way the majority talks. I think Fl and Mi should be allowed to vote, those Dem votes did not count and that does not speak well for democracy.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Abdirazak — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:32:29 GMT

People Of Florida and Michigan has every right to claim that their votes should be counted. People who voted should not punished just because of state 's decission of changing primary.
Ali

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Dianne McClure, Waterford, Michigan — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:35:02 GMT

The candidates agreed to not campaign in Michigan and Florida; apparently they did not. Hillary smartly kept her name on both ballots (perhaps a poor decision on Obama's part as he chose to not have his name on the ballot in one of the states). This isn't the first time someones' name did not make it on a states' ballot. The people voted in both states; Clinton won. There is no need to vote again as we have a result. Clinton gets her share, Obama gets his.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Phyllis, Dallas TX — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 23:46:53 GMT

MI and FL did not play by the rules. If they are allowed to seat delegates, then why have rules. The knew what the punishment would be and went ahead anyway.

The Dem party is already starting to fracture. This will cause more damage.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Arletta, Beaverton, Oregon — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:14:58 GMT

Seat the delegates. The voters of FL and MI voted, and no one should be able to throw that out. NH is first by their stupid state law, which shouldn't be legal. And if it is legal to make a state law about their primary, then FL and MI can do what ever the hell they want. Obama took his name of the ballot is MI, that's his own damn problem. Hillary chose to stay, so she wins, period. I wasn't on the ballot but I can't claim that it's not fair because I chose not to be on the ballot.

Different dates for primaries and caucuses is BS, expecially when stupid podunk states like Iowa think their so damn cool because they get to go first. I'm in Oregon and this is the first time that I can recall that our primary actually means something. Super Tuesday should be nation wide, get it all over and done with. And if that's just not possible, then atleast rotate the primaries so that states take turn going first. And as for caucuses, wtf is up with that? People have to go to a set meeting, stay the whole time and then get into groups who try to convince others to join their corner of the room. If that's not the ultimate BS...

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Mark SP, St. Louis, MO — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:16:57 GMT

MSNBC: you accepted political comments not specific to this story but have denied my comment: "this is not a game": I'm tired of hearing the comment about "playing" by the rules. This is not a child's game and the people of MI and FL should not be denied meaningful participation in the nomination process.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

loris bay — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:21:08 GMT

Alcee Hastings is a crook who almost went to jail, no surprise that he is supporting Hillary.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Karen Hooper, Detroit, Michigan — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:26:23 GMT

I'm from Michigan. This morning I heard Barack Obama, on national TV indicate that he has the Michigan vote. He didn't win the Michigan vote and it's offensive that he's claiming that he did. Someone needs to remind him that he didn't run in Michigan, while Hilary did. The Michigan voters voted, it's important that we're part of this democratic process as other states and Americans are. Keep in mind it wasn't the voters that made the decision to break the rules, and it's not right in the end to disregard who we want as our next President!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Don Patterson, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:36:29 GMT

For the sake of fostering party unite and as a symbolic gesture, the DNC might consider inviting both Michigan and Florida delegates to arrive in Denver splitting delegates 50% - 50% (as long as it is made crystal clear that the count has no impact on the final outcome). Both states are represented during a time when we will need it most, neither candidate has a gain or loss, and positioning or challenging both states to redeem themselves during the general election. I think this scenario is probably the most simplistic approach, eliminates the opportunities for conspiracy theorist, and helps our party maintain our integrity and pride as the party for all people.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

catmom Houston, TX — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:45:05 GMT

If the shoe were on the other foot Obama would be doing the same thing. Florida should be counted because it was not the Democrats who moved up the primaries but state Republicans. All of the candidates' names were on the ballots. None of the candidates campaigned there but Obama did break the rules by having a campaign ad run. In Michigan, Hillary chose to leave her name on the ballot. She was not the only Democrat to keep their name on the ballot. Obama and Edwards chose to take their names off. People knew this before they went to the polls. Those who wanted Hillary voted for her. The others voted uncommitted as they were told to if they were for Obama or Edwards. If it is a do over than it should be the same way it was originally and definitely not a caucus.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Bill Matthews — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:49:48 GMT

MI and FL did not play by the rules. If they are allowed to seat delegates, then why have rules. The knew what the punishment would be and went ahead anyway. If they must be seated require them to vote 50-50 for Obama and Clinton. The states that played by the rules should determine the nominee.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

David, Islip, NY — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:53:44 GMT

Let's get something straight -- people in FL and MI were told their votes WOULD NOT COUNT! Many people, especially would-be first time voters, STAYED HOME. To turn around now and validate these results would disenfranchise those who were essentially discouraged from voting in the first place! Either HOLD NEW PRIMARIES or forget about seating those delegates.

Although I am an Obama supporter, I know he stands to lose ground if there is a do-over, but our first concern should be giving EVERY ELIGIBLE VOTER the OPPORTUNITY to be heard -- isn't that what we railed against the Republicans about in 2000? In Florida, no less!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

MARYLOU, LHC. AZ — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:55:58 GMT

EVERY VOTE SHOULD COUNT! EVERY VOTE SHOULD COUNT! AMERICAN CITIZENS OF FLORIDA AND MICHIGAN WENT TO THE POLLS AND CAST THEIR VOTES AND THEIR VOTES SHOULD BE COUNTED. SHAME ON THE DNC FOR THIS RIDICULOUS MESS! THEY DISENFRANCHISE THEIR OWN PEOPLE! DEMOCRATS WILL LEAVE THE PARTY IF FLORIDA AND MICHIGAN VOTES DON'T COUNT!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Joe, Grand Rapids, MI — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:56:01 GMT

I'm a white guy from West Michigan and I think that the comment about MIchigan's primary being rigged as a racist plot is a bit much. That said, I think race is a big factor in this issue.

1. A white governor (who supports Clinton) decides to put Michigan's primary ahead (knowing some censure will likely result)

2. The DNC and candidates agree not to run in MI.

3. The Michigan electorate is told their votes won't count.

4. The only major Dem candidate on the ballot is Clinton. Obama and Edwards supporters are told (late) to vote "Uncommitted".

5. Clinton 'wins' Michigan (tough running against "Uncommitted", isn't it?) and gets no delegates.

Does it sound like a plot? No, but it doesn't sound fair. Do I think Gov. Granholm is racist? No. But Detroit is a major factor in Michigan politics and many citizens (white and black) of the "D" would have voted for Obama (if the stats are anywhere near the same as many other states-Obama has scored high in urban centers).

Did Gov. Granholm expect all along that Michigan's delegates would be seated? (She's been saying it since the primary.)

Is Gov. Granholm more concerned with saving face (again, advancing the primary date was here move) or with enriching her endorsed candidate (Clinton) or is she concerned with giving MI citizens a real opportunity for a fair election?

If Dem's want to decry the disenfranchisement of voters, this is clearly a case where they can avoid it by admitting their mistake in moving the primary up (and re-run the primary) or stop trying to change the rules "after the game has started."

Hold a caucus. Rerun the election (have the candidates chip in the $$ to subsidize it). But give people a REAL chance to vote for a person.

Telling people to just vote for "Uncommitted" was a terrible idea--and if it was anticipated all along that she would get the delegates by keeping her name on the ballot when the other big candidates stayed off, that sounds like a major injustice.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

pasteeater, clermont, fl — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:58:01 GMT

It will be interesting to see what can be done. There is enough blame to go around.. from the florida republican controlled state legislators who passed the bill, to dean who wanted to play a power game and ignore it, to the florida democratic party who could have negotiated with dean but didnt...18 million to redo is a lot of money for this state since its controlled by republicans, and we know they have no clue about fiscal responsibility. I think dean should put up some of the money. but there has got to be a redo or a caucus, but thats the only way it should count.. I didnt vote that day because IT DIDNT COUNT.. so if it were to count now i would be disenfranchised.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Tim, New York — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:58:38 GMT

The 'rules are rules' argument doesn't hold up here, because the rules are a joke. The legislature that moved the date up in Florida is Republican controlled, so why weren't their delegates stripped? The reasoning was that moving forward the date would result in a fairer system, where more diverse states could hold early primaries to better reflect the country. It's hardly fair that the same states each year get left out of the nomination process because they have to vote last. South Carolina moved up their date, why weren't they punished?
Florida and Michigan should not be punished for trying to change the system, because it clearly needs changing.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Bruce, Portland, OR — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:10:04 GMT

It strikes me as odd to consider seating MI when Obama wasn't on the ballot. He was just following the rules as promulgated by the DNC. Not being on the ballot seems like it might be an advantage to your opponent. You can't consider the results the will of the voters when the choices weren't all there. Duh!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Nate, San Francisco — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:19:13 GMT

The fact that Camp Hillary refuses to consider the option of holding new, legitimate, votes in these states demonstrates conclusively that what they care about has absolutely nothing to do with "everyone's vote being counted" or anything else so selfless and democratic. Turnout obviously would be much higher in both states if all the candidates were on the ballot, campaigned, and voters were told something other than "don't bother voting, because your vote will not count." The *only* reason Camp Clinton could possibly have to oppose a re-vote is that she (correctly) understands that even if she wins both states in a legitimate vote, her margins will be much smaller than they were when (a) she was THE ONLY CANDIDATE ON THE BALLOT in MI and (b) had a million times more name recognition than anyone else in FL. (Note that in nearly every state so far, Clinton has polled roughly 20% leads over Obama until the candidates actually come into the states and campaign; look at Texas, for instance.)

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

mie, dana point CA — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:35:27 GMT

Bill Clinton called in on Rush Limbaugh's program on Monday (they had a fill in, Rush was out) and Bill said that he thinks they should be seated because Obama campaigned in FL ( he didn't) and that, get this, the candidates pulled their names off of the Michigan ballot because they knew Hillary was goint to win. The truth is that all candidates took a pledge not to campaign in those states in line with the DNC rules. It was the state delegation that caused the problem, why are they acting like victims here.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Sue, Florida — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:37:22 GMT

Florida citizens were told their votes would not count. For that simple reason Florida should hold another primary after a period of campaigning by both candidates.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Karen Izydorek, Caro, MI 48423 — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:40:27 GMT

People need to remember that ALL Dem. candidates agreed not to put their names on the ballot in MI, because the rules were broken & the DNC said no delegates would be counted. Hillary broke her word, thereby betraying the voters & the other Dem. candidates. Then she claims she "won" in MI. Now since she is behind & cannot win legally, she wants the delegates counted.

I would have voted for Barack Obama, but did not vote at all, as we were told neither our votes or delegates would count. I would not have voted for Hillary, & now because of her lying & cheating & using Karl Rove-type tactics against a fellow Dem. (especially when it is sooo important that we take back the W.H.), I will NOT ever vote for her.
I am a white female, over 60 yrs old, & believe me, I am not the only one who feels this way.....by far.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Heidi, IL — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:41:03 GMT

Cathy from TN- Seating delegates in Michigan when her name was the only one on the ballot is fair? We live in a democracy. The other candidates were following the rules, she was not. She can't have it both ways.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Justin, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:43:02 GMT

If Hillary manipulates the system because of the Clinton contacts and history and gets the nomination and then loses, what does it say? It says that a woman can only be nominated because of her husband, and that by doing so she has destroyed the party. There won't be another woman with 1/2 a chance for 20 years. Stay within the rules, and let the elected delegates choose.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Justin, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:44:55 GMT

Note that if Hillary pushes for changing the rules, that may push Edwards to endorse Obama. Hillary had 50% in FL, Obama+Edwards is nearly 50%.
Also note that if you give Hillary 55% and Obama 45% of both MI and FL, she gains about 36 net delegates. A far cry from the 150 she's behind.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Gillis — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:45:25 GMT

Two things.

1. Clinton knows she can't win the nomination but she wants to run again in 4 years against president McCain. To make that happen she must hurt Obama now.

2. That's really it.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Don, Winston-Salem, NC — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 03:46:54 GMT

The bottom line is, the Democratic party punished Florida and Michigan for breaking the rules. Fine. But if Florida and Michigan want to incur the expense of holding a new primary in accordance with the rules set down by the party, that is a perfectly reasonable resolution for the situation. And the alternative is that the will of two states worth of voters are disenfranchised from the process and the delegate count, that is intended to determine who the nominee will be, will be skewed by the failure to include those delegates in the final count. For the race to be tipped in favor of one candidate over another by such a technical foul, can only call the whole process
into question. Every vote must be counted.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

LB, Virginia — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:02:40 GMT

Edgar, you are right! I saw that Wasserman woman there too, also a Hillary supporter, so what's up? If there were NO Obama supporters I can tell you, there will be trouble!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

LB, Virginia — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:04:31 GMT

Dianne, Oh yea, so does Obama get UNDECIDED? If you are so dumb that you thought your vote counted we can't help that, the rest of the US knew they wouldn't count!!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Janice Newton Oleans, Michigan — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:08:11 GMT

Absolutly not who wants to revote, how about lets do everything over once is enough. First we voters are not the ones who changed things. Second I cannot help those who took their names off the ballot and why should I. The only thing they agreed not to do was campagine. No way will I redo a vote nor should I. It was done once and that is the fact of the matter. This is not a crime against Mr. Obama it is a crime against the voters in Micigan and Florida. So no I won't suck it up. I will not tell my children that it is their time to be heard I won't lie to them when we are treated as if we do not exist. So no I voted once and will not again nor will many others. We are angry and if we don't count now we won't count then! WE WON'T VOTE AT ALL!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

E. Carnegie, Houston, Texas — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:13:14 GMT

I believe that the delegates from Michigan and Florida should be seated at the convention and their votes should count. Since when do we discount what the American people vote for? Since when do we use "rules of law" to punish law abiding voting citizens...democrat or republican? Since when do we act so carelessly with the belief and wishes of the American People. This is a United States, remember. Let the people decide if the vote stands or there is a do over...let the people decide...this is their country! I am a Democrat, and I say my party does not have the right to make the decision they made when it discounts the voice of the American People.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

AC in LA CA — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:15:37 GMT

To make it fair. Let's count FL, but in PA Clinton cannot campaign only Obama can.

----------
Wake up people, why won't Hillary show us the taxes before the primary?

She doesn't want the Blue collars to know she is a Gold collar.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Janice Newton Oleans, Michigan — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:19:44 GMT

Here's another tidbit for all you complainers of changing the rules! I thought MR. Obama was all about change! GET REAL the only change he cares about is weather it helps him. It is like watching people get all hyped over a pyramid scheme like Amway and becomming AWESTRUCK! He and Edwards took their names off the ballot. People had another option if they supported either of them. So get off the high horse. The issue is you about rights not your candidate!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Sandy, Houston, TX — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:37:09 GMT

I can't believe the stuff I'm reading in these comments. We're all supposed to be Democrats, people. And for a Democrat to think it's okay to count votes in Michigan where Obama wasn't even on the ballot, well, that's just downright dirty Republican thinking. Also, to suggest that it's okay for Hillary keep her votes in Florida is equally baffling. Hillary is a well known candidate, people are familiar with her and what she stands for. So, of course she would win in a place like Florida where there are so many older voters who are just going to go with what they are comfortable with. Obama needs an opportunity to campaign in Florida so the public can come to better know him. The reality is that the whole Florida and Michigan issue is a moot point. If we were to redo these primaries it would only further drag out this process, allowing the Republicans to have the advantage. We cannot let our party continue to fracture; this election means too much. So we need to suck it up, people, and start rallying behind a single candidate. We should remember that the whole reason this is happening in the first place is that we have two outstanding candidates from which to choose.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Rational Thinker, Eden Prairie, MN — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:44:26 GMT

I think Howard Dean is right. We should follow the rules, and the rules stipulate that a "do-over" is acceptable. Hence a do over is the only solution that is both fair, and within the rules. Plus, campaigning in those 2 states will only help the Dems.
The devil, however, will be in the details. Primary? Caucus? Open to independets? Closed? And can they do it before June?

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Charlez,Syracuse,NY — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 04:55:23 GMT

rules are rules why is it Hillary keeps trying to change them? She will do anything to win. Hillary Rodham Clinton's campaign is playing the race card - by darkening the tone of Barack Obama's skin in a new TV attack ad. "Call me crazy, but it certainly appears to me that Sen. Obama's skin tone is significantly darker in the Clinton campaign commercial" than it appeared in the debate, wrote J. Thomas Cronin, who blogs on the Daily Kos Web site.
Obama 08 YES WE WILL

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Pay Attention People — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 05:54:06 GMT

The DNC advised the States of Florida and Michigan of the consequences of their proposed date changes for their primaries. They chose to proceed. All of your arguments are moot. The citizens of these states should express their anger with their election representatives. THEY took your vote away! Another example of egomaniac politicians consumed by their own quest for power and glory. Now they're crying around like spoiled children, as though they had no idea what they were doing. Well I say too bad! Rules are made for everyone to follow. There should be no special treatment, no one-time allowances. They are educated people who understand democracy, and who understood what the rules were.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Mark Gonzales, Mammoth Lakes, Calif. — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 06:05:00 GMT

If Michigan and Florida get do-overs, I want a do-over primary in California.

This is an entirely reasonable request. My Democratic state party officials, representing me (though an independent I voted in the Democratic primary), played by the rules and I got to vote on February 5. If other voters in other states get to revote now, I want a chance for the voters in my state to reconsider their position as well. And I want California to have an influence at this stage of the race.

In fact, if we are going to hold do-over primaries, then I want all the states that have voted prior to a do-over decision to be able to stand up and say, "we want a do-over." This might very well break the "deadlock" between the two major candidates.

And then again, it might not.

It's highly likely that even if we had do-overs in every state that the deadlock would be repeated. It's also likely that do-overs in Michigan and Florida will have the same deadlocked result.

The race for the Democratic nomination, is winding down (in spite of the frenzy in the media) to a conclusion one way or another. The Michigan and Florida delegations should not be seated. Superdelegates should exercise their vote in whatever way they feel is best for the party and the nation. And the candidates should play by the rules, get out the vote in the states with primaries and caucuses remaining, and try to influence those superdelegates to vote their way.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Eugenia Beattie, Crawfordville, Fl — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 06:11:55 GMT

As a Florida resident, I was told by a Republican Governor when I had to vote, period, we had to vote when we did, we had no choice, Both candidates were on our ballot, I understand Obama removed his from the Michigan ballot, however he did campaign here, Hillary did not. Our vote here in Florida should be counted. I am getting sick and tired of the few making the decisions that affect so many of us.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Rich — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 06:44:24 GMT

Would Hillary want Florida and Michigan's delegate to be setted if she was one hundred thirty delegates ahead and had lost Florida and Michigan?

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Robert, Sacramento, CA — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 06:46:40 GMT

Hastings, a stooge for Clinton. Isn't he the only federal judge to be impeached? Way to go democrats, and why should the tax payers be made to pay for these additional election cost. DON'T COUNT THE DELEGATES.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Rich — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 06:49:29 GMT

Would Hillary want Florida and Michigan's delegate to be setted if she was one hundred thirty delegates ahead and had lost Florida and Michigan?

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Disgruntled voter, Miami, Fla — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 10:01:52 GMT

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Bill — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 10:11:08 GMT

I want my vote to count, The DNC need to thank about what would happen if florida & Michigan is not counted.No way Obama or Clinton can the general election.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Jayne, NH — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 10:39:31 GMT

The rules were established early on....Fl and MI leaders decided to ignore them.

And now they want a do-over?

Would that be like a shoplifter, who knows this against the rule of law, does so anyway, gets caught and asks to return the item to the shelf months later when facing the difficult penalty?

FL and MI can make their voices heard....at the doorstep of their leadership who took them down this road of short sightedness.

You do not reward them later with a do-over! Geez.

No seats before the nomination, no do-over. Your leaders made the bad call....live with the consequences and make your opinions known to them...not the Dem Party.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Becky, Milo, Iowa — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:12:25 GMT

All Americans share the most basic right given by our Country and that is the right to vote and the vote be counted!

Regardless of out-come!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

CM, Pensylvania — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:46:37 GMT

The party of "hanging chads" is not the party of hypocrisy. Let democracy rule!!!!

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

NoLonger4Hillary — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:58:44 GMT

Are you kidding? Hillary has warned us she'd push for this ever since she started losing. Florida and Michigan were punished. They knew the rules before they broke them. Do you honestly believe Hillary would have un-punished Chelsea when she was growing up? Once again, the Clintons show their lack of morals in their fight for a win. They will win at any cost - even when it teaches Americans the wrong lesson. PLEASE, NO MORE CLINTONS!!!!!!! I used to be for Hillary - can no longer support her currupt ways.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

D, San Antonio, Texas — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:04:11 GMT

FLorida's Primary was designed by its GOP controlled legislation to disenfranchise it's democratic voters. It was the GOP legislation that voted to move up the State's primary. The legislation knew that it was against the Dem rule when they voted So now the Governor cares about the Dem delegates being seated. The FL dem voters should be going after their Governor for disenfranchising them. No make over. You live by the sword, die by the sword.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Jano,Clearwater,Fl — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:33:35 GMT

We do not need anyone to campaign in Florida, we have had access to a lot of the campaigns on TV. O'Bama had the advantage of having TV ads run in Florida. A do over primary or a caucus would be too expensive as Florida's budget is in a strain now. Also a summer vote would exclude many of the people that voted in January. I assume the Republicans in this state want one of theirs in office more than the Democrats. They also held early primaries, but their party only took 1/2 of their delegates. I am an independent but with democratic leanings.I will remain an independent because I do not beleive anyone in this country should be refused to pick the person they think should be the President of the USA. Obviously there are more fair states that allow any one to cast a vote for the person they think would benefit them & our country in other states. Their should be a national law. Affiliations with Political parties should be confined to promoting their candidate of choice and should have nothing to do with the individuals voting ability. The audacity of this amazes me! It should you too, whether you want O'Bama or Clinton in the White House. Freedom of choice should concern all citizens.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Lifelong Southern Democrat — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:38:18 GMT

The best news was that Howard "Duck" Dean would not be at that meeting. Wise move. He is part of the stinking power structure that punished people in his own party for something over which they had no control. This should have been "fixed" before the Michigan Primary, and since it wasn't, history will write this off as one of the stupidest decisions the Dem. Party ever made. There's your legacy, Howard Dean. Thanks for screwing up the Primary process, the delegate vote, and leaving these people disenfranchised. We will remember you always after your butt is kicked out the door and down the road, and good riddance. Oh, and if the Super Delegates have to settle this race, I hope newspapers slap your picture right beside the headlines "Debacle" and "Riot at the Democratic Convention."

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Disgruntled Voter, Miami, Fla — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:46:59 GMT

To say it was the MI and FL own fault is a bit unfair.

Florida's primary was moved up by the REPUBLICAN governor Charlie Crist - he is now offering to pay for a re-run - it's his fault and I think we should take up that offer.

If we don't we will lose Florida in November.

Michigan was slightly different - the main mover was Democratic senator and it was supported by the state senate - by both REPUBLICANS and Democrats. The first primary was paid for by the state of Michigan NOT the parties so technically speaking the Democratic Party should be able to finance a re-run there as well.

States that moved up primaries or caucuses without penalty include:

* Iowa
* New Hampshire
* Nevada
* South Carolina
* Alaska
* Arizona
* Arkansas
* California
* Colorado
* Connecticut
* Georgia
* Idaho
* Illinois
* Massachusetts
* Minnesota
* Missouri
* New Jersey
* New York
* Oklahoma
* Tennessee
* Utah
* Maryland

In fact it would have been easier to lists states that have NOT moved primaries and caucuses than those who have!!

Why were they allowed to move their elections up without penalty yet Michigan and Florida were not?

I know that some said it was because New Hampshire and Iowa have always been first.

Why was February 5 seen as the cut-off point for movement?

Why was South Carolina or Nevada not treated as Florida and Michigan?

Why should some states be allowed to move and others are not?

Why should some states have more of an influence over the nomination process than other states?

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

Lauren Hunter, Alexandria, VA — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:51:28 GMT

If voters in Michigan and Florida had wanted their votes to count, they should have petitioned their committee to move the primaries as requested. By holding their primaries early, the states broke the law and their votes can't be counted. That's just the way it is. Allowing the delegates to be seated now would just reward them for their rulebreaking.

FL, MI reps to meet tonight

kevin minnesota — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:58:28 GMT

This is a joke. The party that fought so long in florida to make sure every vote counted. Now tells two states they don't count. They have disenfrancised two states. This is really making your vote count florida and michigan. You should be mad as hell that the dnc thinks you don't count.