The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

stand-up cowards — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:31:11 GMT

Like Glen Beck says--Hilary--

TOO BAD

Your leaders-- not Barrack Obama-- broke the rules. Blame them --ignorant clintonites--not Obama.
In fact, FIRE THEM,,IMPEACH THEM,, WERE IS THE VOICE OF THE VOTERS IN MICHIGAN AND FLORIDA--ARE YOU COWARDS? CAN'T YOU PUT THE BLAME WHERE IT IS DUE--WITH YOU STATES' LEADERSHIP? I AM EMBARRASSED TO CALL YOU MY COUNTRY-MEN- BECAUSE YOU, THE PEOPLE OF THE STATES OF MICHIGAN AND FLORIDA HAVE NO GUTS!

YOU SIT THERE AND CRY, "UNFAIR, MY VOTE SHOULD COUNT!"
AND I AGREE--IT SHOULD-- BUT WHO REALLY DISENFRANCHISED YOU---YOUR STATES'--LEADERSHIP--

I SHOULD HAVE BEEN WATCHING MARCHES IN THE STREETS OF FLORIDA AND DETROIT LAST NIGHT WHICH INSISTED THE THE STATE LEADERSHIP RESIGN FROM OFFICE IMMEDIATELY--OR PAY FOR A NEW ELECTION FROM THEIR OWN POCKETS--OR THE THEY SHOULD BE IN COURT FOR THIS TRAVISTY.

THIS WOULD NOT STAND IN THE STATE WHERE I AM FROM.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

thevoter — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:32:51 GMT

Umm. Good points now is anybody else thinking about these points. What good is a revote when everyone can't revote?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

phyllis,oh — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:33:36 GMT

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Dante — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:38:13 GMT

They are right on the money. I do not believe that the people of Michagan or Florida are dumb enough to believe that it is the candidate's fault why the delegates are not being counted. They will still vote for who they choose in the general election.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Lisa, New Britain, CT — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:40:42 GMT

OK, I gotta admit that I didn't read the whole thing (thank you for posting it since it seems to be part of some big Clinton misinformation campaign, thank you for allowing us to see the actual document)...but this makes my point exactly.

This is the problem with a re-do at this point in the game. Any re-do would probably have to be a complete redo at this point...(perhaps allowing anyone to vote, I guess, who knows). It is a mess, its not Obama's fault its a mess, he is merely pointing out its a mess.

As a CT voter and an Obama supporter, honestly I view Mich. just as any other state...it would have been nice if they had one genuine primary (or caucus) at one genuine point in time and IT COUNTED. I have no problem with Mich. getting to vote. But any vote now that is not fair cheapens the whole national Dem. primary so far.

It scares me that this is how Clinton wants to take the nomination. I am truly sorry to Mich. voters, I really am. But this is just unreal at this point.

Hold the true people responsible, not Obama.

Holy cow.

Obama 08

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Campdog — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:40:54 GMT

Bottom line.....a revote has to do with holding the Party together and winning in November.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

vance — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:42:32 GMT

A re vote just doesn't seem possible, there are too many ways for it to go wrong, too many people left out. I guess that's why we are supposed to follow rules. Too bad for Michigan, they should be mad at their State Party, why change the date and disqualify yourselves?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Sean, Seattle — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:43:33 GMT

Hence the natural problem with the idea of a "do over" - you can't REALLY go back and do the thing over, since the conditions surround the original event have changed, and Obama is right to point that out. Since Hillary agreed to play by the rules, and was on the record as saying that the votes from Michigan wouldn't count for anything anyway, SHE's the one who's trying to change the rules now - not Obama. Sorry Michigan - your party leaders screwed you up. Better luck next time.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

THIS IS AMERICA ! — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:44:26 GMT

You know, I do not understand this argument. Sen. Obama consistently states her want to 'Unite' this country yet, from all the reports I read, it is the Obama Campaign that indicates he does not agree to the re-vote; in either FL or MI...

So how can you disenfranchise millions of voters yet state you want to "Unite" America??

Makes no sense to me at all!!

KET THE VOICES BE HEARD --THIS IS AMERICA!!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Chris, MI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:46:20 GMT

Masterful. On a day when Clinton comes to Michigan to spout words like "disenfranchisement" when arguing in favor of a re-vote, Obama's campaign releases a thorough dissection of relevant legal precedent surrounding the issue. I particularly enjoy how they point out potential lawsuit-worthy problems with the re-vote, and use the Clintons' request for signature verification in the Texas caucus as an example of the fact that if there's a way to sue, someone's going to sue.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Lynette, NYC — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:47:20 GMT

I dont understand one thing. republicans voted in their own primary because they thought the democractic primary was meaningless. Now their vote is already counted. So why should they be allowed to vote again and have TWO votes counted. In NY, you can only vote in primaries affiliated with your party, case closed. Not even independents vote here in primaries. I dont understand how a registered republican looks to re register as a democrat and then register back. Im a liberal democrat who usually votes that way, except in the case of my very local election, as our local state stenator representing our district is a moderate republican and has been doing a bang up job in our little corner of the world. What is all of this renouncing parties for one election here and there. perhaps we should do away with the registered party system. As for the democrats in Mi and FL why should they be penalized because the party changed the so called rules. And why are these rules in place? why cant each state hold their primaries when they want, albeit during the primary season. why does Iowa get to be in front and new hampshire. These old line party rules are archaic, just as caucusus are.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Luanne — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:48:42 GMT

I think the only fair resolution to this entire mess is to split the baby. Seat the delegates 50-50. Save the money, save the headache, save the Party.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Dean, Norwalk, CT — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:51:40 GMT

The Democrats, once again, prove they can't get out of their own way.

Does anybody believe that the Clinton campaign would be so passionate about the disenfranchised voters in FL and MI if she hadn't lost so many other states? She, like Obama, signed a document last year that sealed the fate of voters in both states. To blame Obama for the current stalemate is embarrassing, underhanded and un-Presidential. Now I see that two super delegates have announced their support for the candidate with no shot at winning the delegate race. And these are the people who run one of two political parties in the most powerful country in the world? I wouldn't trust the Democratic Party elite to organize a softball tournament, much less coordinate a winning campaign against the Republican machine.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Mox — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 14:55:51 GMT

Of course Obama doesnt want this ,he wouldnt win. The money is like his church being investagated for political use of non profit so I guess this could cause a problem.Obama cosigned an amendment for mail in voteing and first time it comes up he says no. Very Obamish. I never heard any thing well yes i did .He would remain partial to a man that is racist but now we know what keeps his wife's racism fed.Ferrakhan is also important to his pastor so i assume to Obama too.He rejected him when he had to. Farrakhan said it was ok he understood he had to do it for political reasons. There is so much to this man I Hope there is a CHANGE and he is not allowed the nomination.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Michelle Zee — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:01:08 GMT

This is craziness:

What about the people who have voted?

WHAT ABOUT THE REPUBLICANS PURPOSELY VOTING FOR CLINTON TO THROW THE ELECTION?

PLEASE EXPLAIN TO ME.

PLEASE tell me why the FL and MI voters are not blaming their OFFICIALS?

Put the blame where the blame should be cast!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Sheila, Chicago — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:05:39 GMT

Amazing! The read between the Obama Campaign memo and the Clinton Campaign memo. The former filled with facts, warnings, serious issues to consider - the latter filled with cynical innuendos, dismissal of the facts and character slights. Re-doing a Michigan primary, only to have it be likely legally challenged makes no sense - even to a fifth grader! This issue requires both campaigns to work together - now that's a new idea!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:08:45 GMT

Obama has run his campaign on changing the process in Washington D.C., and including everyone in it.
But, when it comes to the Michigan and Florida primaries, he doesn't want Democrats in either state to be part of the process because he knows that they will pick Hillary as their candidate of choice.
I don't care that these two states moved up their primary dates, and I don't care about any "pledges" not to participate in them either.
I only care about Democracy, one man, one vote, and the idea that all registered Democrats everywhere should have the opportunity to pick who their candidate will be in November.
The Obama campaign's efforts to keep Democrats in Michigan and Florida from having that opportunity is contradictory to the theme of his candidacy, and makes him look like a complete hypocrite.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Crystal — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:09:19 GMT

I think the only fair resolution to this entire mess is to split the baby. Seat the delegates 50-50. Save the money, save the headache, save the Party.
Luanne (Sent Wednesday, March 19, 2008 10:48 AM)

I completely agree, but Clinton won't agree to that. That makes the most sense, if the claim is just that they should be seated. Why waste money in a time where Americans biggest concern is the economy?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Chris, Dorr, MI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:19:56 GMT

I'm a 48 yr old white male from west Michigan. I did not vote in our primary because it was clear from the rules established before this contest began that our state lost its delegates because our elected officials played chicken with the DNC. I am a veteran and believe with all my heart that our right to vote as and American citizen is sacred.
You can not change the rules of the game in the middle of it, the beginning of it, or the end of it. Our state blew it for the primary. It is NOT either of the candidates fault.
The Rules are the Rules.
I am anxiously waiting to vote for our next President in November; when my vote will count.
President Barack Obama.
President of all of us.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

garyd new hampshire — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:22:43 GMT

People are blinded by what they don't want to see. The comments about Obama not wanting a revote is really taking things out of context and then putting it into "spin" cycle. True, perhaps if it was a bottom line decision based on Obama having the lead advantage his decision might be for no revote. Obama for the untiy of the party and voters will support a revote but it has to be "right". Hillary is trying to stack the deck in her favor based on manipulating the situation. Hillary, you can't play it both ways.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Tim, South Lyon, MI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:24:18 GMT

Being from Michigan it's the leaders fault. Not Sen. Obama's. They knew what would happen in the fall if they went ahead with Jan. 15th. Ickes voted to strip Michigan of their delegates and now sits here saying they should be seated? OK. Sen. Clinton is trying to find anything to help her win it. She had no problem with it earlier but when she realized she really needed Mich, Fla and their supers all of a sudden you aren't letting the voters voices be heard. Hey Hillary maybe you should talk to your supporter Gov. Granholm who went ahead with this primary.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Chris Penn — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:26:20 GMT

YES WE CAN!!!! drool, slobber, YES WE CAN!! fawn, drool, slobber.... ah... CHANGE!!!!droooooolllslooobbberrrrroohhhhhmyyyymminnnddddissss gonnnnnneeeeee!!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Mel — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:35:15 GMT

Well reasoned, well thought-out, logical memo...

if you read Clinton's rebuttal - you won't be so lucky. It is a mess of mud-slinging and despirate grasping at anything and everything...and it contains several contridictions with statments and actions of Hillary's campaign.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Hillary won — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:37:27 GMT

The only fair way is to count the votes the way they are. Seems like Barry wants to steal them. He gets special treatment for everything else. Hillary won them bottom line.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Robert — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:38:18 GMT

Yeah, what about the Democrats that voted for republicans so that their vote would count. If you are stating fairness, they should be aloud to revote too.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

John — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:50:01 GMT

Obama is trying to disenfranchise voters? Imagine that. I guess he didn't mean a word of his "big" "speech" yesterday. What a joke.

Of course the Michigan and Florida voters needs to have their votes count. It's absurd to think otherwise. The Dems cannot win without them in November. Every state must have full participation in the DNC convention in August.

The Dems need to get Obama out of this race before he completely destroys any chance of victory in November.

Obama is unelectable. Yesterday, his fatal mistake in not completely disassociating himself with the racist, anti-white, anti-semitic, anti-American, pro-Louis Farakaan black supremecy Nation of Islam supporter is the death knell for this and any future campaign. Obama is toxic now. No Pres. nomination, No VP nomination, No re-election to the U.S. Senate.

The Obamarama is OVER.

What kind of character and judgment does Barack Obama have to subject his own two young daughters to the hateful, divisive, anti-American diatribes of his "mentor" and "close friend" Jeremiah Wright in a so-called "church"?????????????????????????????????

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Dagny in Chicago — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:51:13 GMT

Wow. These are really serious issues and anyone who is advocating for a Michigan revote needs to address each one and explain how they can be resolved. We can't just have a new election without making sure that it is LEGAL and FAIR.

And why is everyone assuming Obama would lose Michigan? Hillary only got 55% of the vote when we was unopposed. That's pretty bad.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

sg, michigan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:56:32 GMT

The whole idea of a Michigan primary re-vote is crazy. Obviously there are all kinds of factions who disagree with Michigan's disenfranchisement (ironically most of which are from other states). But changing the vote now will produce entirely different results (remember Edwards, Biden, etc.).

This opens up a whole slew of sticky problems. I don't think we want to go there.

And let's face it, if there is a re-vote, Clinton and Obama will have a tie in delegates. Furthermore, the threshold to win nomination would rise! What's the point in tearing the Democrat party apart to extend the inevitable.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Voter who will remember in November! — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:58:17 GMT

IF OBAMA THINKS HE IS GOING TO WIN THE WHITE HOUSE...

****HE HAD BETTER THINK AGAIN*****

AS I AM A VOTER WHO WILL REMEMBER THAT HE STATES ONE THING ABOUT UNITY IN THE COUNTRY --YET, AS USUAL DOES A COMPLETE 360 AND IS WILLING NOT HAVE HAVE VOICES HEARD..

THANK YOU DNC --YOU JUST HANDED THE WHITE HOUSE TO THE REP. PARTY --ON A GOLD PLATED PLATTER !!

YOU SURE CAN BE PROUD OF YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS NOW !!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Bill, Rochester, NY — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:01:46 GMT

Hey ALL YOU HILLARY SUPPORTERS LISTEN UP!

Hillary Clinton is a carpetbagging hack who is almost as deceptive as Georgieboy Bush. But don't worry she's working on it and will soon catch him.
She is neither a feminist icon nor the bride of Satan.
SHE IS an extremely opportunistic person who will stop at NOTHING to get what she wants.
Her specious claims of "experience" are laughable at best. Her voting record in the senate reflects her craven political positioning. Using her logic The Republicans should push Laura Bush for president.
How much tea and cookies does a woman have to ingest to gain the "experience" that Clinton claims?

One last question: Would you be willing to let your doctor's wife perform surgery on you because of her "experience" as a Doctors wife?
That's what I thought, of course not.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Bill, Rochester, NY — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:02:37 GMT

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

JAY CHICAGO, IL — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:09:30 GMT

JA JA JA JA JA, IT MAKE A LOT OF SENSE, Obama doesnt want to count michigan and florida because iti s big state and he knows that he has no chance there, either in florida. Now, he is against the idea of "each vote must count" now, what i will suggest is that MI do it over and nobody vote for him. Obama is just a player, and using his nice speech skills and the media support to convince AA, plpaying with them and using them to be ahead, but, WILL OBAMA WIN THE GENERAL ELECTION? OF COURSE NO. AMERICA WONT VOTE FOR HIM, TRUST ME ON THIS ONE.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

JAY CHICAGO, IL — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:13:19 GMT

ONE SIMPLE REASON WHY MICHIGAN AND FLORIDA NEED TO BE RE-DO, IS BECAUSE NONE OF THE RUNNERS HAVE ENOUGH VOTE TO WIN THE NOMINATION... HOW DO YOU SEE IT?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

JAY CHICAGO, IL — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:15:16 GMT

WHAT REALLY AMAZE ME IS TAHT EVEN WHEN THE MEDIA HAS BEEN PUSHING AND WORKING 100% FOR OBAMA, ADN TEH AA HAVE BEEN 90% FOR HIM, (RACIST APPROACH)HE STILL HAS BEEN UNABLE TO WIN THE NOMINATION... WHAT DOES IT TELL YOU?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

No Obama — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:16:41 GMT

Imagin this: Obama has not that vote he didnt make but might have his supporters did but anyway this is his whole reason for being best CIC.His Judgement. He can not make a statement without that vote. He never has addressed the 18 times Iraq broke there peace treaty with us. The fact everyone,Colin Powell,the world,all usa (except Obama) thought there was wmd there .What kind of judgement would it have been not to challange Iraq (which is what this vote was to do)Wilson said Hillary used good judgement.She has over 30 flag officers and higher saying her judgement is the best.(Obama finds a handful to bring out and do there manuvers behind him)Obama says he is best because he ,being the big man would bomb Pakastan(our necular Ally.)But he would take the necular option off the table against terrorists. He would talk to Iran , N. Korean,Venasula countries that want to destroy us and Israel. Well that would make his pastor happy. Makes me nervous.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

jmf — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:18:57 GMT

So to all you Obamacans who said Obama is NOT standing in the way of a re-vote......LOL
You are all a bunch of koolaid drinking drooling cult memebers...Who are ruining our chances of fixing our country-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phyllis - funny, I can say the same about you with all your nastiness spilling out of you. Clinton supporters are extremely negative --- and extreme about her.

I happen to feel that Clinton stands in the way of fixing our country. Her policy on mortgage freezes will drive up interest rates, essentially freezing OUT future homeowners to help those who took out mortgages that were way too big. A trade "time-out"? I'll believe that when I see it. Does it go both ways - what about food going to poor countries? What about when the price of everything goes up even more than it already has. Oh, and "Cheney's energy bill" that Clinton voted against -- after massaged by Congress actually INCREASED oil taxes and provided the most funding EVER to green energy. Clinton drives a Lexus; Obama drives a hybrid. Clinton may have had tea and cookies in Ireland while other players were making the agreement, but Obama sponsored a bill to combat loose nuclear material throughout the world before terrorists get their hands on them. Obama sponsored a bill to take care of our vets; Hillary voted for them to go into that unforesaken war in the first place - she refused to show leadership when we needed it the most! And this Wright thing? Do you realize how close she has been to Billy Graham - someone caught on tape making serious anti-Semitic remarks and plotting against Jews in journalism with Nixon? He can be forgiven, but Wright can't? Stop the double standard! Stop the toxic dialog!

Anybody else want to claim that Obama hasn't accomplished anything? Bring it on! I am DONE with the spin that HRC and Conservatives have ganged up with him on!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Sean, PA — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:18:59 GMT

I love how whichever state Hilary needs at the moment, is the most important state in the union,Florida and Michigan. This is the same candidate who essentialy said Missisippi doesn't matter. And somehow no one will question her directly on why the rules should be broken this time around. I don't like her repulican-like tactics. I see her as some sort of Republicrat

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Bonnie George las vegas, nv. — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:20:37 GMT

to all of you obama brats, get the message he was not on the ballot in mi. by his own choice, hillary clinton was as she should have been, mr. obama did'nt bother. now why should anyone get to add their name to a ballot just because they do not like the outcome, this is an excelent lesson in uniting the u.s., if you don't like candidates on the ballots then put your name on there after everyone has already voted, and for those who voted republican instead of mrs. clinton should not get a re-vote they did exactly what they wanted to do like it or not, please quit whining it is getting rediculous, if you can change things then go for it if you cannot then let it go.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Deb Kligora, Racine WI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:24:46 GMT

I think that this is so sad to bad, Clinton and the Michigan voters knew what the rules were. I do feel for them as far as their votes are concerned, but a re-vote at this time is very unfair. That is the only reason that Clinton is pushing this. The Indendents and Republican's can not vote, which only benefits her. Do you thing she would be whining if the shoe were on the other foot?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Shel, SLC UT — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:25:34 GMT

Its this type of analysis and dissection of the issue at hand that will win Obama the nomination. Hillary's "flamethrower" approach to this issue (among others) is not serving anyone's best interests but hers.

I'd much rather have a level-headed rational president who thinks things through before acting. Today, of all days, we should recognize this trait and praise it.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

StevO, Denver — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:25:58 GMT

To people like MOX and Chris Penn - Wake up and listen to the message. It sounds like you want more of the same crap that Bush has been dealing. HRC only took 40% of the vote in MI and she was the only one on the ticket. How pathetic is that? I don't think she would win in MI with a re-do. If you believe half of what you hear in a church, especially if the pulpit is used for political rants, then you are a lemming and quite possibly can't think for yourself. Grow up with these stupid comments. This is all another great reason for separation of church and state, which our forefathers knew was absolutely important over 200 years ago. Now all of sudden in our modern age, everyone wants to inject religion... big mistake. Believe what you want in church, but don't try to sway me on my beliefs or push it politically.

Time to unite the Dems.

Obama O-Eight

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Star — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:26:46 GMT

There is a reason they called it a “REVOTE/REDUE”. So, if they decided to let the two states vote on this primary, they need to let every one vote or revote.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Linda. Boston, MA — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:26:58 GMT

"I dont understand one thing. republicans voted in their own primary because they thought the democractic primary was meaningless. Now their vote is already counted. So why should they be allowed to vote again and have TWO votes counted."
^^^^^^^^^^^

That's the problem. They can't be allowed to vote twice. But if you don't let them vote twice, then the results will not accurately reflect the will of the people. There are many people for whom their preference is: 1) Obama; 2) McCain; 3) Hillary. So for those Independents and Republicans who WOULD have voted for Obama if they could have, but instead voted for McCain as a 2nd choice, are now disqualified for any possible re-vote. Since Obama gets more support from cross-over Independents and Repubs, this would UNFAIRLY skew the results in favor Hillary.

The truth is, there is NO solution that is both fair AND legal that would allow a re-vote. And it's not Obama's fault in the least - it's a matter of law and fairness.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Ted MItchell, Jackson MI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:31:25 GMT

I am a Mid Michigan citezen, who was fully aware of the situation our legislature put in place. and I feel that the powers that be will feel my angst in the next state election. I DID NOT VOTE. I knew the rules, knew the reasons, and chose to boycot, as my preffered candidate was not available. Now, I would love for the chance to vote for Obama and end this madness. What I can't do is reconcile the cost/benifit analysis. 15-20 million for what?

for Obama to win, and widen his lead. For Hillary to win, and barely dent her margin. What is the point. Hillary won in MI by 10 points over "Uncommited" great. Go Hill. She litterally barely beat nobody.
How is she going to fare any better this time around.

So as an Obama supporter, let me float this: Seat the delegates as they stand; Hillary 55%, and give Barack the remaining 45%. Look Ma, I just saved 20 million dollars. This is progress, and a suitable way to get seated. And coming from an Obama fan, I think it's plausible.

Seriously, what is the Clinton thinking on this? If she can't beat "Nobody", how can she beat Obama?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

MR Maryland — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:33:01 GMT

I sorry for the MI and Fl voters, but you should blame your state officials. This proves that you need to watch who you vote into office, because it looks like their officials did not look out for their voters. (tipical politics)

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Patrick - Boulder, CO — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:35:40 GMT

Don't be so simple Hillary fans, Obama isnt standing in the way of Michigan and Florida re-votes, the state LAWS are. You cannot bend the law to your own needs - rules are rules and they need to be followed.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Joe, Westminster, CO — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:35:56 GMT

Can you imagine the problems that would be created by a rushed, chaotic re-vote in either state? You think we have problems and divisions now! I would be more sympathetic to Clinton's position if she hadn't agreed to the rules in the beginning. Of course she wants a revote. But she needs to stop making the case that it's about fairness. It's not. It's about advantage. And she's demanding that Obama supports her position in this despite the flaws in her arguments. Why should he? Even if he was sure he would win a re-do, why extend this conflict for another two months just to pick up a few more delegates? Why leave the super delegates frozen until June. We can only can imagine what Clinton's positon would be if the situation were reversed. ("Is he kidding? I wasn't even on the ballot.")

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Annette, MI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:36:02 GMT

What a bunch of garbage. How can the Hillary's campaign send this stuff out with a straight face. I live in Michigan and can tell you that the Obama campaign did not try to have us vote uncommitted. It was the democratic committee that urged us to vote this way to protest the DNC's removal of MI delegates. Clinton could have helped by not having her name on the ballot to show she disagreed with MI breaking the rules. Instead she wants to use breaking the rules as a mean to seat her delegates. The campaign ahs said that it thinks the votes should be counted from the first primary. To everyone, except members of her campaign, this is laughable. OBAMA'S NAME WAS NOT ON THE BALLOT!! Any sane person can see that is not a fair vote.

The real issue is the logistics of ensuring another fair election in the short time frame that is left. Michigan had well over a year to prepare for the primary vote and the Clinton camp expects us to be able to do a legitimate re-vote in less than three months. Elections take more than money. It also takes up goverment and civilian worker's time. Everyone knows MI is having economic problems and to ask us to divert much needed resources to another election is selfish. If she really cared about MI voters she would be asking people to raise money to help our economy instead of hurting it by asking it to hold another election. Go Obama!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Brian — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:37:52 GMT

I don't see why, demographically, Obama wouldn't have a good shot at taking Michigan like he took Wisconsin and Illinois. But the memo makes sense. This would not be a democratic vote. I have pals that cast a Republican ballot back in January that would have much rather cast a vote for a Democrat. They had no reason to know they would be disqualifying themselves from a future "do-over" and would be understandable pissed to find this out.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

coninpa — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:45:23 GMT

So the people who voted before, couldn't revote, because the other candidates weren't on the ballot? Am I understanding this right? And if Republicans voted then, but now owuld rather vote for Obama, b/c his name wasn't on the ballot, they couldn't do so?
If they are doing a revote...why not just scrap the other primary and start over then, b/c at the time they said it wouldn't count anyway? This is insane if I'm taking this the right way. If this is what they are going to do...why even bother. Go with the original rule. None of them count!
Clinton...trying to ramrod the state...and the voters...flying to michigan...to help the good old voters! Do the michigan voters want a primary that some people's votes wouldn't be counted in this primary? How can they do this?
Ahhhh...never mind I would expect nothing less from Clinton...win at all costs.
She has destroyed her own party...to win at any expense! atta girl!!!!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Billy S, Seattle,WA — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:47:17 GMT

This is why there's rules in the first place. If Michigan would have followed them this problem would not exist.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Tammi King Grand Rapids Michigan 49503 — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:50:44 GMT

I live in Grand Rapids Michigan, me along with thousands did not go out to vote as it was cold and snowing and the person that we wanted was not on the ballot. The rules re the rules and to ty and change them to best fit your sittuation is called stealing, cheating but I guess Clinton would not have a problem with Stealing or Cheating seeing how she won't release those taxes or ruturn the China or Furniture to the White House. I can understand how you view Obama as the problem you have HRC views and values and they are very destorted.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

snake — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:53:30 GMT

No matter how you have a re-vote, it will be always better and more accurately reflect people's will than any of those caucuses in those small states we've had. If we can have those bad caucuses, why can't we just have a mail-in re-vote? Don't you think it will be more accurate than a caucus?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Mark, VA — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:54:46 GMT

We are all fusing over if Hillary gets the nomination without the majority of the pledge delegates and that it would be illegitimate. I can think of no more illegitimate outcome if Florida and Michigan are not redone. We are a Country of 50 States, plus territories. Not 48 States, regardless of stupid rules of the DNC.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Dr.Strangedog, MI — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 17:00:02 GMT

Allow me to be immature and say, BOOOOOOOO!!!!

We've had 7yrs of unaccountable, inarticulate, bungling and deceit! We have a candidate that not only accounts for his actions but reasons with the American people. Talks to them instead of down to them and still no love.

I guess this is what they meant by :BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR, YOU JUST MIGHT GET IT
too bad we're too concerned with marginal issues to appreciate it.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

miami, fla. — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 17:00:35 GMT

Hillary need to go home already. This lady is something else. No wonder why most people didn't like her as first lady . People always likde Bill. And no one wants her as President. The only reason why Obama isn't the overall favourite is because of the color of his skin. Come on America! it's time to fess up. Swollow your racist pride and give this brother a chance. One last thing......I am a lily white woman. Thank you.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Republican who supports Obama — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:56:31 GMT

I love the way how some of the HRC supporters refer to Obama supporters as "cult like" drinking the Kool-aid" ect. Go ahead use name calling, since your candidate does...

I am a very sane, guy who works in the financial industry, and my wife is a college instructor....I would have to say that we are probably sane to a level of being boring.

We are not a group of pot smoking hippies, latte drinking elitist, nor political activist.

We are just normal people who see a candidate that seems different from the rest.

We cannot vote for HRC because she has a credibility issue.

Being a Republican, I cannot vote for McCain because I think he is nuts.

I think what bothers me the most is how the Clintonites attack Obama and Obama supporters using the same double standards.

Clinton is running as an "Experience Candidate", and is using her time as the First Lady as experience.

Think about the logic here, my wife is a college professor. Does this mean that I am at all qualified to do her job because I am married to her? Is she at all qualified to do my job? The answer is clearly "no".

McCain to me was a great candidate when he was running against Bush in 2000. However, since then he has embraced the religeous right, and has abandoned what I used to love about him. To me, the "Straight Talk Express" is a wagon filled with manuer.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

steven f., pa — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:56:32 GMT

When you go to a competition and the rules aren't fair or the ref's aren't calling foul, the fans get upset.

Reading the actual Re-vote problem as presented in the article clearly points out that it can't be a fair game

As a fan and voter for Sen. Obama, i must call foul play when i see it.

Sen. Clinton, you are turning off people who considered voting for you - as i was.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Perry, NYC — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:58:17 GMT

Good God, what a trainwreck.
::head hurts after reading all that::

These are all undeniably very relevant issues, tho the shame is that Hil will doubtless spin it that Obama is "disenfranchising voters" when she's been the Queen of Disenfranchisement in Nebraska & Texas! Ultimately the blame for this falls squarely on the heads of MI & FL state officials who didn't prevent this from happening in the 1st place, and 2ndly on the DNC for digging in their heels also.

I hope these brain surgeons have learned to NEVER let this happen again!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Lee Holmes — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 21:06:53 GMT

Uhh,Bauer. The Republicans do not have the same sort of delegates/superdelegates rules that the Democrats have. You guys made this scene. Wanna gripe? Go see these guys.

Schrum,Bob

Beckel,Bob

Hunt,James

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Linda, Brooklym Park, MN — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 21:07:17 GMT

Just when I think Clinton is as low as she can get, she proves me wrong and sinks to a new low. It must be awful to want something so bad that you are willing to lie, cheat or steal it. She was all for the rules when she was winning and now they don't make sense. If her only concern is seating the delegates from MI and FL than split them down the middle and they're seated. But if her real concern is how can I use these poor suckers to my advantage, keep pushing for that magic formula that will help you steal the election. I feel sorry for Obama because he under-estimated how low she would stoop to win. He still believes in the good in people. I use to believe in the good in Clinton but now I will be voting for Obama just because he refuses to lay down and let her walk all over him.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Linda, Brooklym Park, MN — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 21:09:29 GMT

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Bob in Ohio, Waverly, OH — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 21:19:13 GMT

Okay, folks ... here's the rub ... the Clinton Campaign simply doesn't know how to decide when it's over. First it was "Super Tuesday", then it was Ohio/Texas, then it was Pennsylvania and now it's FL/MI revisited. Pennsylvania has even happened yet but the Clinton Campaign realizes that there simply won't be enough there to help ole Hillary so now it's FL/MI again. Truth told, Hillary is further behind now than before Ohio/Texas and even BILL said that was THE BIG DAY! The Clinton Campaign is simply and purely DESPERATE!! They need a MIRACLE of the sort Huckabee was holding out for!!

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Robert Douglas, Charlotte, NC — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 22:10:17 GMT

Here's the thing Bob Bauer,

your (1) Voter Afirmation argument that the affirmations would become a source of challenges, so what. You think that Michigan is the only state that requires voters to Afirm their voter intention relative to their past vote?

In North Carolina, if you are registered Unafiliated, you're supposed to Afirm when you go to vote in the General election that you voted for the same party in the Primary. However, the Afirmation while it is supposed to act the same as swearing under oath, I can tell you from past experience that North Carolina takes people at their word.

No one is going to verify that anyone votes differently in one election versus another, because their just not.

Moreover, North Carolina, nor any state for that matter will tell me who/which party I can/will vote for.

I have every intention as a registered Unafiliated voter in North Carolina of voting Democrat for Senator Clinton in the NC Primary and if she does not get the nomination, I will not vote for Barack Obama in November. In the General election I will vote Republican for John McCain even though North Carolina says you must affirm in the general election that you voted for the same party in the primary.

I can tell you that not only am I not the only person in NC that plans to vote for Clinton, then McCain should Obama get the nomination, there are many people who plan to do the same thing.

So bring it on Obama.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Tom Paine — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 22:24:07 GMT

The reason they won't allow cross-over votes (allow GOPers to vote a second time...) is to follow the DNC rule 2.E prohibits crossover votes... rules Obama said he would abide by, but now uses as a flimsy excuse to disnefranchise Michigan's voters.

Despite Obama’s promise to support a revote if it follows the DNC rules, he now wants one of them to be ignored.

Obama is breaking yet another promise to the American people.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Be careful what you wish for — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 22:38:19 GMT

miami, fla. said

Hillary need to go home already. This lady is something else. No wonder why most people didn't like her as first lady .

What "Most People" are you talking about miami?

Where is your proof that "Most People" didn't like Hillary Clinton when she was the First Lady of the United States of America. A position by the way, that Michelle Obama will hold if people like you who can't stopping drooling all over yourself over Obama and having diarrhea of the mouth, get their way and Obama is the next POTUS.

I think it is very shamefull and disgusting that the very same people who keep posting comments on this site bashing Hillary Clinton and supporting Barack Obama are showing such disrespect to the position of First Lady of the United States of America.

Yeah I'm sure Michelle Obama who for the first time in her adult life is proud of her country because it feels like hope is finally making a comeback, is going to make a wonderful first lady of the united states. But then again, the position of First Lady of the United States is a trivial and unimportant position, right Obama supporters?

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Lorene, Covina, CA — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 22:40:14 GMT

Sometimes when I read these comments I am amazed at the spectrum of ideas. On the one hand you have people who condemn someone for spewing hate and racism and in the same sentence say racially skewed things, when they do this they sound like the racist that they are trying to portray Obama and his wife as. On the other hand you have people who say very well thought out ideas that show insight and understanding of the situation. It is amazing. Thank you all for your comments and thank God we have the ability to say them out loud. To both sides of this argument, please don't just take what you read in the news paper or here in the comments, or what you see on TV, the sound bits that don't tell the whole story, research and find out for yourself the issues.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

Edith M. Conrad, Asheville, NC — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 22:43:25 GMT

Since the Clinton campaign seems all for running elections over if they are somehow displeased, if it is done now in Michigan and Florida, I would like to request a rerun on an election held in Florida in the year 2000. The method of changing the rules in the middle of the game to suit oneself, works really well for folks who have little concern for the rights of anyone other than themselves.

I am pleased to see the above article concerning legal issues rather than political on this question. It is about time.

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

In the land that doesn't matter, Iowa — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 23:39:37 GMT

The Clinton's will do anything to win this election. Some Clinton lies and old politics. Time to turn the page.

Go Obama....
Your doing great....

The Obama campaign's argument on Michigan

WireHedd — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:51:53 GMT

What I find TRULY astounding are the people who can sit and blame Obama or his campaign.

Are these people sincerely that unintelligent?

Some of you people should learn to read and then to understand historical fact. HRC agreed to the conditions that Obama agrred to, signed a pledge to that effect and has now broken her word.

It is that simple.

Michigan voters have been punished by their own state leadership for their refusal to abide by DNC rules and now there people stupid enough to try and blame Obama???

Learn to READ people, learn the FACTS, understand the TRUTH. When people who have the basic ability to understand the realities of this campaign they can EASILY SEE THE TRUTH.

HRC is a LIAR and OPPORTUNIST who feels that it is acceptable to break her word to get ahead.

ANYONE who feels that this okay is too stupid to vote.

Obama haters who STILL go on about the pastor from the man`s church are PLAINLY incapable of comprehending the realities of black and white relations or the simple truth of the past and present.

I feel any person can attend a church and not agree with the head of that particular church as well. Any person who is so weak minded or so unintelligent as to assume that all members of a particular church are blindly obedient simply amplifies the idiocy of those saying it.

HRC supporters can, for the most part, be completely ignored for baseless rhetoric spewing stepford voters too weak minded or lazy to seek and understand the truth.

Obama supporters take hope in that fact.