Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House better (UPDATED--NO FLAME WARS!)

Well, it appears that we are settled on the question of Florida and Michigan, in what seems to be, for the most part, a fair assessment for each person running in the race. It's now time to move on and deal with some of the more disturbing bits of today's news, like the talk of "going to Denver", which really worries me, and the behavior of some people at the meeting today.

I've been reading MSNBC and watching the live blog posting and just wanted everyone to know (in case you don't already), that the actions of today's Hillary supporters at the RBC meeting, from the Larry Sinclair jive to the chanting and booing, was unacceptable from my count and only helps to undermine our mission to win in November.

It's obvious this has been a hotly contested battle, but our final questions have been answered, and now's the time to accept the fact that after June 3rd, we are going to have a Democratic nominee for President. We reached a fair compromise to both sides today on the issues and the actions of Harold Ickes and his comments in regards to the seating of Michigan delegates was inappropriate and misguided.

"Going to Denver" is inappropriate and misguided as well; and this action needs to be swiftly denounced in the name of winning a Presidential election in November. Hillary Clinton is amazing; that's why I love her, but prolonging this nomination fight into August would inevitably harm her political standing and that's something I don't want to see, while, at the same time, a brutal floor fight at the convention while John McWar rides unopposed throughout the summer isn't something that's in our interest either. We got our final questions of the primary season answered today; and while I understand that they may not be favorable for the Hillary campaign; nobody wants us to lose in
November, and I don't need or want another 4 years of George W. Bush in office. So let's unify and rally behind Barack Obama.

"Going to Denver" isn't going to solve our nations problems, it's going to harm Democrats and the chance of getting a Democrat elected in November. And since the reason that I backed Hillary is because I want to solve our nation's problems, I certainly don't want to see our chances to do that thrown down the toilet because of silly party infighting. This is our time, our year, and we can and will win. Let's not do anything to hamper that, and I don't think Hillary would want to keep hurting our nation for the next 4 years by indirectly contributing to getting John McCain elected. It hurts her and us.

I know this is tough, but there's no reason to go to Denver because it hurts us as a party, her future, and our country by helping to elect a Republican through DNC infighting.

And besides, I'd rather spend January in Washington than August in Denver any day of the week.

Update [2008-5-31 20:5:2 by zcflint05]:Hey all--let's try to avoid feeding the trolls, keep the discussions civil, and no FLAME wars. This is the closest we've been to day 1 of the General Election--so let's just chill out. Just avoid the flame wars.

Display:


Tips, recs? (2.00 / 51)

I wrote this at work, give me some love!


Hillary supporter for Barack Obama in 2008
by zcflint05 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:44:57 PM EST

Re: Tips, recs? (2.00 / 4)

Great diary.  Virtual rec.


John McCain isn't evil. He's just wrong about a lot of things. Vote Obama!
by proseandpromise on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:33:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tips, recs? (none / 0)

me too


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:38:11 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Tipped for speaking your mind, but I still DISSENT (1.90 / 21)

I support Senator Clinton going to the convention, which is her right under the laws and rules of our country and our party.

I reject the talking point being pushed by the Obama campaign and others that it's against "unity" for Clinton to continue to pursue the nomination.

There are 3 main reasons she should go to the convention, in my opinion:

1.  Given that Florida and Michigan have been recognized, she now has the popular vote lead, which will be even more compelling after tomorrow's vote in Puerto Rico.  

2.  Neither candidate will have enough pledged delegates before the convention.

3. She is more electable against John McCain, primarily because of her strength in a few key states, especially Florida.

You can call me whatever names you want -- I've heard it all. You've called me racist, repug, traitor, bitch, and other things I can't repeat here. Like my candidate, I am impervious by now.

This is a Democracy, and under democratic principles I urge Hillary Clinton to use the convention for its god-given purpose -- to select the best nominee for our party and best potential president for our country.

There is too much at stake to walk away.  And I am sure, after today, that she will NOT be conceding any time soon.

Sorry, it's not what you want to hear.

But this is about something much larger than a manufactured sense of "party unity."

Senator Clinton:  Please make your plans to take this nomination battle to Denver.  The people are behind you.

See you there.

P.S. -- Please do not troll rate me for this comment -- which is a matter of free speech and falls within the myDD guidelines.

Please do not attack me personally, call out personal information about me, or direct nasty hateful "snarky" comments AT me rather than at the substance of the discussion.  Abuses will be reported.  It is not okay to act like a thug towards other users.  And by the way, it only motivates me to be tougher.

In case you forgot, Democrats are permitted to dissent.  That's one of our bedrock principles.  I am NOT required to be a sheep to belong to this party.  Debate civilly, or keep your mouth shut.

I look forward to meeting you all in Denver this summer.


TexasDarlin blog
by TexasDarlin on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:05:28 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tipped for speaking your mind, but I still DIS (2.00 / 6)

I'm a Hillary supporter too and sometimes gain a little insight into what Hillary must be hearing from her closest advisers when I read diaries written by you and Alegre.

Ultimately, of course, the decision on how far to take the campaign rests with Hillary. So, I'm with Hillary until the end.

If she concedes the nomination in June, I hope you will join me and her in moving on to win the GE with Barack.


by RickWn on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:29:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tipped for speaking your mind, but I still DIS (2.00 / 3)

I'd give you mojo if I could.


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:46:21 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Bravo, TD! (2.00 / 2)

I'm applauding you in California.


by izarradar on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:34:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tipped for speaking your mind, but I still DIS (none / 0)

Dissent is fine...but contesting the nomination after Obama has requisite delegations needed and she  has no chance to make up the difference would not make sense. We need to think back to why Hillary was such a strong candidate going in...smart and pragmatic are two of the words I'd use to describe Hillary earlier this year. Lately she seems exhausted and not always thinking straight...it must be awful to lose after so much work, so much money, so many supporters, but someone has to lose and unfortunately this time it was Hillary. I think once Hillary has a chance to rest and reassess the situation she will not want to do a Ted-Kennedy-1980 "Running Against the Wind" turn...that is so not who she is. She has promised to support the nominee, and I expect that once she has a chance to come to terms with what has happened, both she and Bill will support Obama and will not wait for the convention to do so.


by Alice in Florida on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:34:47 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Pssst (2.00 / 2)

Got a little factoid for ya and you might wanna listen up...

He doesn't have a single vote until they're cast in Denver.

Besides - ya never know what might hit the news between now and Denver.  Stay tuned.


Donate to Hillary Now!
by alegre on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:08:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

I assume you mean the purported Michelle Obama video? If you guys have it, use it.


If you're being chased by an angry bull and then you notice you're also being chased by a swarm of bees, it doesn't really change things. Just keep on running.
by vcalzone on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:13:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

And if you don't have it, find it. I may not like you that much, but I'd rather have you plunging the knife than John McCain.


If you're being chased by an angry bull and then you notice you're also being chased by a swarm of bees, it doesn't really change things. Just keep on running.
by vcalzone on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:15:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (2.00 / 1)

Pssst. He's your nominee now.
You hate that fact - you go register as a republican, okay? :-)
I support our nominee President Barack Obama - and the Admins can't stand me, so I can't rec or rate. This is very mean if you were to ask me.
by TheFullBerry on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:19:25 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (1.33 / 3)

So, how was it today with the hordes of um, 200 in D.C.?  I'm assuming you were one of the merry band of protestors and/or unseemly screechers in the hearing.  Did the other 9,800 get lost on the Jersey Turnpike?

Of course, I am sure you are beyond being embarassed by a reprimand from one of Hillary's avid supporters on the committee -- a woman with grace and class.

I don't even pity you -- at this point I am actually relishing what you have become and what you further will become because you deserve every miserable second of it.


by gchaucer2 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:37:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

yeah, what Geoffrey said!


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:52:33 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (1.00 / 1)

Holy Crap! Is that really him! I loved him in "A Knights Tale"!


by futbol dad on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 01:02:12 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

That movie can't be real.  They didn't have color movies back when he was alive!  They must have colorized it after the fact.


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 01:48:19 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

Damn, you're right!


by futbol dad on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 09:47:45 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

It's nice when all that fancy book learnin' pays off.


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Mon Jun 02, 2008 at 02:19:00 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (1.66 / 3)

You know, I was at the RBC meeting today.  That was 500 people with a small but vocal subset of Clinton supporters able to cause chaos (and ultimately taking their "Brooks Brothers Riot Redux" into the hall where they began chanting "President McCain!  President McCain!").

Now, try and figure out what the convention would look like with a similar proportion of disruptions.  Taking this to Denver is the single stupidest thing a person could do if they wanted to defeat John McCain, because there's no way it doesn't devolve into Bedlam, and two seconds' honest reflection would tell any rational person that.


by Jay R on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 01:25:26 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Pssst (none / 0)

Pffffffffffft! I think that's my answer to your conspiratorial psssssst.


by Shiloh on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 02:47:45 AM EST
[ Parent ]

TR'd? (2.00 / 1)

Troll rated by chatters71


TexasDarlin blog
by TexasDarlin on Sat May 31, 2008 at 11:05:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Looking at your history (none / 0)

of giving HRs and TRs, it's hard to take your complaint too seriously. Really.



McCain
by Black Anus on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:45:58 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Mojo for respectful debate (2.00 / 0)

In interest of furthing honest debate, I'll honor your tip with some mojo.  Also, here is some feedback and questions regarding some of the points you raised.  I would be interested in your response.

1.  Given that Florida and Michigan have been recognized, she now has the popular vote lead, which will be even more compelling after tomorrow's vote in Puerto Rico.

I've never understood this part of the whole popular vote argument.  Why should it matter in calculating that total if FL and MI delegations are recognized?  The pop vote is only relevant in as much as it sways the oppinions of super delegates and supporters; it has no official status.  SDs are capable of doing the math whether or not delegations are seated... so how does this change anything in that regard?  If the argument is that their vote should respect the 'will of the people', can't they do that regardless of the status of the delegations?

Related: If the goal of the popular vote argument is to reflect the will of the people, does giving Obama zero votes out of MI really accomplish that?

2.  Neither candidate will have enough pledged delegates before the convention.

Technically true, but assuming enough SDs endorse Obama in the next few days to comfortably give him the nomination... does it really make sense to leave the party in limbo for three more months?  That would be a gift to McCain and the neocons.

3. She is more electable against John McCain, primarily because of her strength in a few key states, especially Florida.

Perhaps true by current polling, but you must admit that Obama is gaining ground and shows real strength in the polls against McCain (as shown even in the EV maps here at MyDD).  Really, both our candidates are really great.  Either could beat McCain.  Clinton has a stronger hold on various key states but Obama puts a broader array of states in play.  I don't see the electibility argument being big enough to tip the SDs away from Obama.  His effectiveness with grass roots organizing and fund raising probably carries more weight at this point than polls five months out from November.  We still have time to leverage that into an even stronger EV map.

I would love to hear your thoughts on this.

Thanks.


by protothad on Sat May 31, 2008 at 11:15:10 PM EST
[ Parent ]

let it go (2.00 / 1)

The only result of a convention fight is a democratic loss. That's it.

Is that what you'd want, even if in some far away land Clinton won? I'd think not.

So please, drop it.


by Yalin on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:57:05 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: let it go (none / 0)

I actually think they do - it would be their proof that they were right all along.  They are way too invested in this to see clearly. Deluded is the only word for it.


by interestedbystander on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 01:59:46 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Which one were you? (none / 0)

At the DRC protest, were you the blond woman from CA out front or one of the ones inside who disrupted the meeting?  When I saw video of the blond woman I thought she sounded a lot like you.

Just curious.  


No Way, No How, No McCain!
by GFORD on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 11:11:07 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Tipped for speaking your mind, but I still DIS (none / 0)

I agree that this whole party unity stuff is being a bit overplayed. If barak obama doesn't have what your looking for or if john mcain has more of what your looking for then by all means vote with what you feel is right. However if you want to take this to the convention there has to be a purpose. First off Hillary will not get the nomination by taking this to the convention. The only other reason to do so would be to either push some legislative issue, strenthen her political future or make an important statement.


Elections 2008 Best reality show ever!!!
by kbal on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:41:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

It's time to move on to the general. (2.00 / 10)

We have our nominee. The Rs have theirs. Let's beat theirs with ours.


should we go outside? / should we break some bread? / are you'nterested?
by Firewall on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:45:59 PM EST

Re: It's time to move on to the general. (none / 0)

I'm on board.


Government derives its power from those that it governs.
by lockewasright on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:58:41 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (1.80 / 5)

I beg to disagree. I think what hurts the party more is the fact that the democratic party just decided to disenfranchise 50% of Michigan and Florida voters. That is a dangerous precedent that ruins the brand of the democratic party.


by 1986dude on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:46:37 PM EST

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (1.90 / 11)

MI & FL shouldn't have moved their primaries.


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:48:10 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (1.40 / 5)

We can argue all we want about the merits and events surrounding the MI & FL election that does not change the basic fact, the democratic party is now for disenfranchisement, just like the Republican party.


by 1986dude on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:50:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

The Democratic Party (2.00 / 4)

is for punishing people who skirt the rules...unlike the Republican Party.


The American people; they were for the war before they were against it.
by nrafter530 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:52:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 1)

The people you've punished are the voters, who didn't do anything wrong.

Votes belong to the voters. The Democratic Party just took them away.


by OrangeFur on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:57:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

So take it out (2.00 / 7)

on the real people who caused the problem...YOUR leaders.

When I was a kid, my teacher used to punish the whole class when one or two people did something wrong. I never understood why she did that either, I was innocent, but I tell you those two kids NEVER FUCKED IT UP FOR US AGAIN.


The American people; they were for the war before they were against it.
by nrafter530 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:00:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Luckily (2.00 / 14)

There's a great way for the voters to fix this problem: vote out the people that caused their problem in the first place.

I didn't want us to be at war in Iraq, but my country's leader took us there.

I can leave the country, or I can fight to restore honor to the country by the rules allowed in the Constitution.

If you're not in favor of democracy fixing the problem with Michigan and Florida, how can you be in favor of democracy fixing the country on a larger level?


In this avalanche, the pebbles get to vote.
by Dracomicron on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:01:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Luckily (none / 0)

Superb response to that canard!


by N in Seattle on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:15:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Luckily (1.00 / 1)

so it's now Love BHO or leave the country? how very republican of you...


by trytobereal on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:19:09 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Brilliant reply. (1.00 / 1)

I'm sure you're proud of that one.

Point: Voters elect state legislatures.  State legislatures defy DNC and screw up primary calendar, thereby tainting results.  Therefore, voters should elect better state legislators.

Counterpoint: Love BHO or leave the country!  That's nasty and Republican!

No, but it would be great if YOU, trytobereal, would leave the Democratic Party, assuming you're even a member.  HRC's defeat is your perfect excuse, now just go.  Find a part where ridiculous fallacies are welcome.


by corph on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 02:06:03 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Luckily (none / 0)

You're deliberately missing the point.

We could have honored the votes of the people today. We deliberately chose not to.

To imply that I don't believe in democracy as a whole is, well, bizarre.


by OrangeFur on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:32:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Luckily (none / 0)

At the expense of dishonoring those states that followed the rules?  Great idea.

The RBC split the baby today, but Todd is right: it was about as good an outcome as either side could hope for, save for the zealots who insist on all-or-nothing, rules be damned.


by Jay R on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 01:27:57 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Luckily (none / 0)

Only in theory.

The legislators are poised as fallen heroes advocating for MI/FL while the DNC is the draconian gremlin that said, "no, no, no."

The party deserves to lose both states in the fall.  Florida going GOP is a sure bet with Obama as nominee, so there's little ambiguity there.  Michigan is more of a tossup.  


2004 swing state margins: PA-2%, OH-2%, IA-1%, WI-0.5%, MI-3%, FL-5%, NM-1%; Alienating 50% of the party is a luxury we can't afford.
by BPK80 on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 11:52:39 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Luckily (none / 0)

This is not about what "the party" deserves. We are the party. It's about what we deserve. Do we (you and I) deserve four years of McSame because party leaders in Florida and Michigan decided to jump the gun, and completely predictable consequences followed?



McCain
by Black Anus on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:52:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 11)

You don't seem to be concerned about disenfranchizing the voters who didn't vote because they were told the election wouldn't count; or who's candidate wasn't even on the ballot.

This is 'selective outrage'--it's pretty transparent.


by Brannon on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:01:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 1)

They were then the only ones, b/c in one state over 200k decided to vote for Uncommitted, and in another over 500k decided to vote for their choice even though they didn't campaign in that state.

That arugment is a straw man at best, and just laughable in general with those type of numbers.


He that lives upon hope, will die fasting. -Ben Franklin
by TxDem08 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:14:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 2)

http://www.time-blog.com/swampland/2008/ 03/who_didnt_vote_in_the_florida.html :"Based on a statistical comparison with turnout in other states' primaries, it appears that roughly two million more people would have voted in Florida and Michigan had they expected their delegates to be seated.
Although the Democratic turnout rate was impressive in Florida and Michigan, it was not nearly as high as it has been in other primaries so far. Of the first 37 states that have held either a primary or caucus for both Republicans and Democrats, only six states have had a larger turnout for Republicans than for Democrats: Florida and Michigan, plus heavily Republican Alaska, Alabama, and Utah, as well as Arizona"
by Brannon on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:27:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 1)

This is the biggest BS argument ever. Look at the turnout in FL and MI. They were record breaking. In MI they even had write ins. Clearly, the people who were really passionate and believed in their candidates came out anyways. Those who were unsure or indifferent did not.


by 1986dude on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:15:35 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 3)

1. Jerome Armstrong (from earlier today):
"That MI didn't have a write-in process disqualified 30,000 votes"

2. http://www.time-blog.com/swampland/2008/ 03/who_didnt_vote_in_the_florida.html :"Based on a statistical comparison with turnout in other states' primaries, it appears that roughly two million more people would have voted in Florida and Michigan had they expected their delegates to be seated.
Although the Democratic turnout rate was impressive in Florida and Michigan, it was not nearly as high as it has been in other primaries so far. Of the first 37 states that have held either a primary or caucus for both Republicans and Democrats, only six states have had a larger turnout for Republicans than for Democrats: Florida and Michigan, plus heavily Republican Alaska, Alabama, and Utah, as well as Arizona"


by Brannon on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:25:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Alas for the argument about MI (none / 0)

First, what are you comparing turnout with? The 2004 Caucuses? Or what? There is no apples-to-apples comparison possible here as far as I have been able to determine (research continuing).

As for write-ins... you did hear the part of the meeting discussing those, where it said that due to the way the law in Michigan was written, those votes did not count if they were for Obama, Edwards, or anyone else who had pulled their name off of the ballot?

*sigh*

by Vancouverite on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:39:10 PM EST
[ Parent ]

They were not record breaking (none / 0)

Both MI and FL have had larger primary turnout in previous years.  They both had relatively low turn-out this year compared to the actual record breaking turn-out in other states.

These are the facts.  Feel free to look it up on wikipedia if you think I am wrong.


by protothad on Sat May 31, 2008 at 11:26:29 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (none / 0)

Pardon?

Michigan (population 9 million) had 600K democratic voters in their primary.

Kentucky (population 4 million) had 700K democratic voters.

Oregon (population 3 million) had 620K democratic voters.

If that was a RECORD turnout for Michigan, that's one really lame state.

And those 5% of the total votes for write in candidates that were not tabulated or included in the vote totals?  They were not for Hillary Clinton.

Florida did have an OK turnout but still not quite the turnout rate of other states.  Something about a property tax measure on the ballot.  Any chance those who don't own property (younger voters) wouldn't have shown up to vote in a primary that wasn't going to count?

Regardless, it is irrelevant now.  No point really in beleaguring and rehashing it over and over.


by Rick in Eugene on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 05:09:54 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Lies (none / 0)

Turnout for all states was relatively lower in January and February than in May.  See: New York, New Jersey.  


2004 swing state margins: PA-2%, OH-2%, IA-1%, WI-0.5%, MI-3%, FL-5%, NM-1%; Alienating 50% of the party is a luxury we can't afford.
by BPK80 on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 11:54:19 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (none / 0)

will BHO use that as a tactic in the GE too? dicourage people to vote?


by trytobereal on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:19:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

That make no sense. (none / 0)

It was the DNC that discouraged voting by declaring the elections as unsanctioned (and the state parties that precipitated that by jumping the schedule).  Obama had nothing to do with it.  

Furthermore, considering Obama recently kicked off a 50 state voter registration drive... well, I think you have your answer.


by protothad on Sat May 31, 2008 at 11:33:18 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 6)

It's just too bad no one was informed about this until so late in the process.  If only someone had tried to fix this issue before the primary voting started we would have been able to have a debate without the charged issue of deciding if a questionable vote should stand.

If only someone had told Harold Ickes about this!  He could have found the people who voted for this and make them change their mind!  It's just too bad he didn't find out about this till later.


by libertyleft on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:03:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (2.00 / 1)

Yeah.  I think the Harold Ickes of the RBC, accidentally forgot to tell his twin, Harold Ickes of the Hillary Clinton for President campaign, that they were having a vote on this a while ago and he thought it was a good idea.  The humanity!


John McCain is surprisingly bad for this country
by minnesotaryan on Sat May 31, 2008 at 11:33:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (none / 0)

They counted the votes in FL and proportioned the delegates to 50%


Obama supporter who is damn glad Hillary Clinton is a Democrat!!
by hootie4170 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:21:15 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Have you any idea how frustrating it is to be a (none / 0)

democrat in Texas? I've just lost my argument that the reason I was a fervent liberal democrat was that unlike the republicans, my party believed in democracy by counting all votes.


by suzieg on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 08:36:30 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: The Democratic Party (none / 0)

The Republicans imposed a 50% penalty too.


by Shiloh on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 02:49:50 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 1)

Then I guess you'll have to vote based on policy then, since either side isn't living up to your expectations.


by upstate girl on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:59:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (1.00 / 1)

Troll alert.


by deminva on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:45:52 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 4)

indeed democrats aboard have been yelling this for years, why do they have to be only for 1/2 when no one else is?

and why don't you HRC supporters care about them? almost as if you only care about that which can get hillary the nomination and NOT about the actual voters.

hmmmmm


Obama said, as Bill beamed. "Thank you, President Clinton."
by TruthMatters on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:48:16 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 1)

????


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:49:38 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

This came up w/ one of the presenters. Some pointed to the DNC charter where it says super delegates are "super", and not subject to regular delegate selection rules like halving for time violations. Someone then said, what about VI, Dems Abroad, Guam? Must that mean their supers count as a full vote too?


by nwodtuhs on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:19:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (1.75 / 4)

Fine, go vote Republican.   Oops, they did 50% too.  Oh well.


by libertyleft on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:48:58 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 1)

Pleas read the comments you are commenting on. You are making a fool of yourself.


by 1986dude on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:53:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (1.50 / 2)

No need to descend into personal attacks and name calling.  I'll leave you to vent your rage in peace.


by libertyleft on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:54:53 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

if you don't like name-calling then you should not start it. now you do not just look like a fool, you look like a liar as well.


by trytobereal on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 12:49:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 11)

How are we disenfranchising them again, remind me? Kentucky had more people turn out than Michigan and still got less delegates than they did at the penalty.


Hooray for John McCain!
by ragekage on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:52:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

yeppers (2.00 / 2)

In Washington, almost half as many people turned out for our caucuses.  

Not only that, almost 700,000 Democrats voted in our absolutely meaningless primary.  So in a state with only a bit over half the population of Michigan, in a primary that every single participant knew to be meaningless, with no other important measures on the ballot, the Washington Democratic primary drew 100,000 more participants than Michigan's.


by N in Seattle on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:43:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 7)

It's called compromise. Respect the party's decision.
democracy!
by BlueGAinDC on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:54:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

no it's called "behind closed doors brokered (none / 0)

compromise" - sounds good doesn't it - they did exactly what they did the exact opposite of what they told America they wouldn't do - have an open meeting which turned out to be closed after all - we look pathetic!


by suzieg on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 08:40:51 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 6)

This is starting to sound like that radio host on Hardball who kept shrieking "appeasement!" over and over but couldn't even begin to explain what it meant.


by Johnny Gentle Famous Crooner on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:58:51 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

lol Where have you been! Way past that! We are at the point where Chris M shakes his head and says that the circus has come to his show.


by futbol dad on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 01:08:35 AM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 12)

I did not get a real vote in MI.  They threw out an invalid election with only one candidate on te ballot.  I was told my Uncommitted vote would count.  

I know others who did not vote at all, as they didn't think it would matter.

I follow rules every day of my life.  Today is no different.

I was not disenfranchised, I was vidicated.

Thank you RBC


"More War Years! More War Years!" ~John McCain
by Tommy Flanagan on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:59:19 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

So valid of a point you make.  Clearly Hillary should get all the votes from MI and FL.


PUMA plants.
by jv on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:01:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

Moot point now.  I suggest you figure out how to get over it.


by deminva on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:46:56 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

That's certain to be helpful.


No Way. No How. No McCain.
by Denny Crane on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:55:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, (none / 0)

I'm here to help!


by deminva on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:45:36 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 3)

They didn't disenfranchise half the voters.  The delegates those voters selected count for half.

Also, as there hasn't been too great a concern expressed about the millions who didn't vote in what was supposed to be a meaningless election -- voters who get NO voice in choosing our nominee -- please forgive me if I'm not willing to buy into the "democracy" meme.  It lacks the weight of honesty.


No way. No how. No McCain.
by freedom78 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:01:23 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Oh god (none / 0)

This is the mentality we have to put up with...


by jaywillie on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:04:12 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 1)

Did you hear Don Fowler(who is a Hillary supporter) at the meeting today?  He stated he didn't like the MI compromise, but considering time factors and the restraints they are under at this point, that it was the best available option.  The perfect thing would have been to have a revote but that won't happen, sadly.


John McCain: Bush right to veto kids health insurance expansion
by Calvin Jones and the 13th Apostle on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:07:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 1)

I respectfully disagree.

  1. Each of the two settlements was based on something the states proposed, rather than the O proposal in MI, which I think was thrown in more to counter Ickes and the MI people knew it, or the Ickes revised proposal which did give O the 55. Neither state parties were slapped away by the outer structure.
  2. It treated voters and SDs equally. So the probably guilty did not get away scot free, leaving the electors of the electeds holding the entire hit.
  3. The committee members were plainly concerned not only about those who got to vote, but equally about those who did not. After all, the way Southern voter mechanics worked in the old days was not to steal the votes after, but make sure that those they did not wish to vote never got near a ballot or a voting machine at all. I think the 30,000  MI write-ins that got pitched had a good bit to do with that. Outright ballot pitching.
  4. Once you gave one delegation a half haircut, both had to get it. I was afraid they'd be so mad at MI that it would get nothing at all.
  5. I think the only one Ickes reserved on was MI, which is the harder one for him to defend anyway.

All in all, not a terrible day, except for the deadenders who made HRC and all of her diligent and dignified supporters who would not do that, look bad unless we make the distinction early and often.


by Christy1947 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:12:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I respectfully disagree (2.00 / 4)

I think this was the fairest settlement they could come up with.  You really couldn't seat them fully based on the January results.

The idea solution would have been new primaries, but that never happened.

The rules have been applied fairly. Obama will almost certainly reach the magic numbers (is it 2118 now?) on Wednesday.  I think it is in everybody's best interests that we accept the results and move on.

The war with is John McCain about to begin.


Linfar's co-blogger opposing John McCain
by psychodrew on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:14:55 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

The repubs took 1/2 of FL's delegates too, so there's no high ground for the GE there.


John McCain isn't evil. He's just wrong about a lot of things. Vote Obama!
by proseandpromise on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:35:33 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

Nonsense.

Any disenfranchisement occurred last September-January when candidates were barred from campaigning here and we were told that Florida's delegates would not be seated at the convention (and when we elected delegates in March, those delegates were told they couldn't even reserve hotel rooms!)

Today the situation was rectified...our delegation will be seated, all of them. We didn't get to choose the nominee, true, but that is the fault of the dips***s in Tallahassee who moved the primary to January instead of March. It worked out great for the Republicans, who had their delegates cut by half but were allowed to campaign here. The difference, I think, was that the Republican nomination was not believed to worth much in 2008 while the Democrats assumed their nominee had a virtual lock on the White House this year, hence the vicious battle over the primary schedule.


by Alice in Florida on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:42:14 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (none / 0)

But so did the Republicans. And you don't see them crying like babies about it. They move on. We should too.


by chatters71 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:59:09 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Denver's beautiful, but I like the White House (2.00 / 6)

I agree.  I also admire and respect Hillary, but it is time to unite.

I am tired of reading hit pieces on her and smear diaries here on her.  Also, it upsets me, with her commitment to NY, that there are people who will work to get her voted off in her next Senate run - why?  Because of this primary?  Throwing the baby out with the bathwater?
 


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:47:21 PM EST

Being a New Yorker (2.00 / 1)

I'm seeing more of a move against her because there's a feeling she's ignored us over the past six months and should get out and come back to being our Senator...but should she chose to go to Denver, that would be three more months of not being a Senator.

We want our Senator back, if she chooses to keep going this routre, we'll get ourselves a new Senator.

It's less about the primary than about how long she stays in this race.

Maybe there's a similar feeling in Illinois and Arizona, and I wouldn't blame them if there is.


The American people; they were for the war before they were against it.
by nrafter530 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:56:13 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Being a New Yorker (2.00 / 1)

there is always that feeling when a sitting senator, congressperson or governor runs in a presidential race.

Kerry is my senator and there was that feeling he was ignoring his state.

I believe that Hillary has made it to the Senate to vote on bills.


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:57:41 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Being a New Yorker (2.00 / 7)

Unlike McCain who skipped the vote on the new GI Bill.  

Thanks McCain you stay classy.


McCain = bad Obama = good
by CAchemist on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:01:22 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Being a New Yorker (2.00 / 5)

McCain will also be skipping next week's vote on limiting green house gases.  Guess the earth isn't as important as fundraising with Bush.


McCain = bad Obama = good
by CAchemist on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:05:24 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Yeah, but it's understandable (2.00 / 1)

when you still have a real chance...the sense now is she's finished and even those who support her (supported her) are beginning to think she's dragging this out to a dishonorable finish that will only leave our state without good representation for another few months.


The American people; they were for the war before they were against it.
by nrafter530 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:04:04 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yeah, but it's understandable (2.00 / 1)

Just chill. The end is three days away, and we will all see what happens then. Between now and then the phones will be blazing (not ours, fortunately).


by Christy1947 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:15:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I guess (2.00 / 1)

as much as I dislike her, I hate to see her go down like this. I had a friend of mine ask me a couple of weeks ago how to recall her from the Senate, and she voted for Clinton on February 5th.

Even I had to talk my friend back from the edge and you know how I feel about Hillary.


The American people; they were for the war before they were against it.
by nrafter530 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:20:48 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yeah, but it's understandable (2.00 / 1)

It is potentially far worse than that. So much of the real action in the Senate takes place behind closed doors, based as much on personal friendships between senators as anything else.

As a New Yorker, I'm worried that my junior senator will lose the respect of many of her fellow senators - and thus her ability to exert power in the Senate - if the "take it to Denver" threat is carried out.

Want to talk disenfranchisement? This sure isn't what I voted for in 2006. (At least my neighbors in Connecticut knew what they were getting into when they chose to send Lieberman back to Washington...)


Ceci n'est pas une <<snark>>
by ipsos on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:26:32 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yeah, but it's understandable (none / 0)

it didn't hurt Ted Kennedy, did it?  Senators are a close knit bunch.  I haven't heard anything bad from any senator about Hillary's performance as a Senator.

Even republicans praise her for her ability to reach across the aisle.  


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:30:57 PM EST
[ Parent ]

1980 was different (2.00 / 1)

the Democrats were never going to win that election...this should be a cake walk for us.

Plus Ted Kennedy did have to do some ass kissing after that election to regain rhis strength in the Senate. Many were not happy about it, but it was easier for Kennedy since neither him nor Carter really had a shot against Reagan.

also Kennedy never ran for President again.


The American people; they were for the war before they were against it.
by nrafter530 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:37:54 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: Yeah, but it's understandable (none / 0)

Ted Kennedy was a special case...a very special case. The Kennedy's were like the royal family of Massachusetts for decades. I would not use him as a comparison for what would happen to anyone else.


by Alice in Florida on Sat May 31, 2008 at 09:48:42 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Is that sexism? (1.00 / 0)

It's OK for Ted Kennedy but not for Hillary?


by catfish2 on Sat May 31, 2008 at 10:54:30 PM EST
[ Parent ]

I will never happen - she's too popular! (none / 0)


by suzieg on Sun Jun 01, 2008 at 08:45:41 AM EST
[ Parent ]

I read people were chanting "McCain". (2.00 / 4)

Classy!


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:47:31 PM EST

really, that comment has (2.00 / 2)

no place in this diary.


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:48:11 PM EST
[ Parent ]

It seems to me that such chants (2.00 / 6)

and threats have no place in our Party.


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:49:43 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (2.00 / 0)

your comment has no place in this diary.  Start your own with your thoughts on it.  But this is a diary about unity.  Those folks are angry and have to go thru their process of grieving.

Anger is the 1st stage.


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:54:39 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

Oh. I expect you'll be saying that to all the people saying take it to Denver then.


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:56:56 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (2.00 / 1)

Most of the time I ignore them, because I understand that anger is part of the grieving process.  

I certainly do not wish to throw gasoline on a fire.


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 07:59:03 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

But you felt fine commenting to me. Interesting.


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:00:31 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

because you are an Obama supporter, no?  Obama is going to be our nominee, so why add more fuel to the fire?


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:03:56 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (2.00 / 2)

That doesn't  mean I'm any less pissed than those scumbags who would chant McCain and equate MI & FL slavery. In fact, they said it was worse than slavery. As a descendant of slaves they're very lucky I wasn't there to put my foot in some asses.


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:06:26 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

I totally understand your POV.  However, was it necessary in this diary?  That is all I am saying.

okay?


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:07:58 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

I understand what you're saying as well but what I don't understand is you saying this only to me. You think they should get to vent for some reason but not me?


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:12:06 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

I commented on the poster who stated that s/he wanted it to go to Denver.

it isn't just you.


by colebiancardi on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:14:59 PM EST
[ Parent ]

Re: It seems to me that such chants (none / 0)

Eh no biggie either way. I'm done venting.


John McCain on social security.
by heresjohnny on Sat May 31, 2008 at 08:16:17 PM EST
[ Parent ]