Edwards supporters ! Do NOT vote for Barack or Hillary. The campaign has NOT ended.

[saracat]

It is merely "suspended".That means he can continue to get delegates. In states he cam met the 15% , he will get Delegates.The MSM had cut him off long ago and he was making progress without them. We can continue the campaign! We can make our voices heard at the convention. A vote for Barack or Hillary neans we have NO voice and we are weakening John's voice.I am putting up Edwards signs today, proudly wearing my button and continuing to solicit votes.Please spread the word and let the corporate media know, we will not be silenced.Vote John Edwards on Feb.5th.This is not over!

[GCP]

1. I'm still voting for him, dammit!

[neutron]

207. Another reason I'm glad he's out

He did nothing to bring his supporters back into the flock.
You'll enjoy the supreme court justices McCain selects.

[peoli]

2. let it go. John did.

[saracat]

9. Really? Some question there.And he just suspended.We can do as we wish

[SammyWinstonJack]

12. Don't let them get you down sara!

[maximusveritas]

20. He suspended it in order to buy some time before endorsing someone

This way, he gets to hold onto his delegates rather than them being automatically redistributed.

[saracat]

31. And he may NOT endorse. We must encourge him NOT to do so!

[DaLittle Kitty]

217. If John Wants To Endorse He Can Do It At The Convention... Let McAuliffes Contrived History...

Take its own course! :)

[flyarm]

188. you are damn right Saracat!! ..and i have internet groups all over the country..

and all those peole are voting John and passing on the word!!

i put this on my signature line for emails..

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Vote Your heart in a primary!!

Vote for John Edwards on Feb 5 and stick it to the corporate media
Stand up with some backbone, which our elected dems don't seem to have.

i will not support this crook or the other crook..my values are not for sale ..or kool aide!!

http://nalert.blogspot.com/2008/01/mob-linked-banker-listed-at-obama.html



fly

[Ian David]

3. I was gonna vote for Jonathon Sharkey, but maybe I'll vote Edwards. n/t

[maximusveritas]

4. Jesus. It's over. "suspended" is just a techinicality

Edwards won't get 15% now that he's dropped out.

[saracat]

19. Russ feigold won as a suspended candidate in a primary!

[maximusveritas]

28. Do you have any more info on that?

I've never heard of that.

[midnight]

187. I didn't know that. What election was that?

[NightWatcher]

5. go ahead and waste your vote, if this keeps up we'll end up with McCain

thanks

If you wanna protest, protest, but please vote smart. The Supreme Court needs your SMART vote

[Horse with no Name]

18. You should vote your conscience in the Primary

That has absolutely no effect whatsoever on the General--unless I missed where McCain is running as a Democrat on our Primary??

[NightWatcher]

22. I meant this type of thinking. go ahead and vote for the guy who has stepped aside

[Horse with no Name]

23. He didn't step aside. MSM cast him aside. n/t

[Two Americas]

129. thank you

Once in while the truth leaks out.

You see, Edwards supporters, it is not really about "helping the Republicans" or any of the rest of that bullying nonsense, nor is it about how you vote - as if that is anyone's business. It isn't even about you posting things that make others uncomfortable.

No, it is "this type of thinking" that must cease before the opposition will be satisfied.

Please stop thinking. It is making others uncomfortable.

The question recurs, what will satisfy them? Simply this: We must not only let them alone, but we must somehow, convince them that we do let them alone. This, we know by experience, is no easy task. We have been so trying to convince them from the very beginning of our organization, but with no success. In all our platforms and speeches we have constantly protested our purpose to let them alone; but this has had no tendency to convince them. Alike unavailing to convince them, is the fact that they have never detected a man of us in any attempt to disturb them.

These natural, and apparently adequate means all failing, what will convince them? This, and this only: cease to call slavery wrong, and join them in calling it right. And this must be done thoroughly - done in acts as well as in words. Silence will not be tolerated - we must place ourselves avowedly with them. Senator Douglas' new sedition law must be enacted and enforced, suppressing all declarations that slavery is wrong, whether made in politics, in presses, in pulpits, or in private. We must arrest and return their fugitive slaves with greedy pleasure. We must pull down our Free State constitutions. The whole atmosphere must be disinfected from all taint of opposition to slavery, before they will cease to believe that all their troubles proceed from us.

Abraham Lincoln
Cooper Union address
February 27, 1860

We must cease to call corporate control of our government wrong, and join them in calling it right. And this must be done thoroughly - done in acts as well as in words. Silence will not be tolerated - we must place ourselves avowedly with them. The whole atmosphere must be disinfected from all taint of opposition to corporate power, before they will cease to believe that all their troubles proceed from us.

[Yael]

134. Schwing batter batter

Outta the park!

[AdHocSolver]

170. Nuts! The "wrong" choice for Democratic nominee could give us a Republican president in November.

Your point of view depends on the belief that any Democratic nominee would automatically beat any Republican nominee. That is the same opinion that got us four more years of Bush in the 2004 election.

I picked Edwards as my first choice for our nominee a year ago. I still believe John, of all the candidates, would make the best president, and the most able to ensure a Democratic victory in November, 2008.

My feeling was that I would vote for Edwards in our upcoming primary, both to make a statement to the party, and to give Edwards more delegates at the convention.

However, after watching the latest debate between just Obama and Clinton, I have decided that that is too dangerous an action. Instead, I am going to vote for Obama to keep him viable and hopefully help him become the nominee for the Democratic party.

There are two important reasons why I support Obama over Clinton. First, a Clinton candidacy would energize the right wing and make a Republican victory more likely, especially if McCain (the right wing candidate who can shape shift into a moderate) becomes the Republican nominee.

Second, Clinton is too, too corporate to bring about any change in our country's domination by the right wing corporations. Edwards is absolutely correct about most of our country's ills being due to the corporate control of our government. The Iraq war (big oil, Halliburton, the MIC, etc.), the high cost of health care, the loss of jobs are all due to corporate policies which hurt Americans and obstruct progress for our country.

Get over the fantasy about how wonderful Bill's presidency was for this country. He pushed NAFTA which cost jobs; He pushed through legislation that deregulated the media which allowed right wing control; He oversaw repeal of Glass-Steagall the removal of which allowed the policies leading to the mortgage meltdown; He pushed welfare "reform"; Instead of using the power of office to promote meaningful health care reform, he handed that important job to Hillary, which allowed for that effort to go nowhere.

The "good" economic times under Bill Clinton were only a short respite in the decline of America as an economic power. The good times were due more to low interest rates at a time of a technology "boom" than any policies of Clinton. In fact, Clinton's actions outlined above hastened the decline that we see today.

Edwards would make the best president and the candidate who could beat any Republican. If the media and the Democratic party right wing won't let Edwards campaign to continue, then our only viable choice is Barack Obama.

I have decided to vote for Obama in the primaries based on the two most recent debates. My feeling is that John would approve of my decision. Edwards is one of the most intelligent and sincere politicians we have seen in years. He is right up there with Howard Dean and Al Gore in my estimation. I trust he had good reasons for suspending his campaign. If he wanted us to vote for him anyway, he would have let it be known.

My understanding of John's intentions is to pick one of the two leading candidates, and my choice is Barack Obama. I believe Edwards would approve of my choice.

[Horse with no Name]

178. Your reasoning is flawed

Hillary and Obama are very much alike--it doesn't really matter which one we put forth. They are both flawed. So the ones out there that want to vote for Edwards in the Primary can do just that.
Our votes have not mattered yet...why should they suddenly start?
The outcome to this (s)election process was decided many months ago in a boardroom. We are just allowed to carry out the charade of "selecting a candidate".
I'll vote in the GE for whichever flavor du jour of the corporate candidate that remains standing--however, I will NOT be guilted into casting a vote for "your candidate" in the primary.

[flyarm]

189. Hate to wake you up so late.but they are both the Wrong choice!!

the right choice ..was Edwards...

now go back to sleep..

fly

pssssssssss..it is obvious you never read "THE OCTOPUS"..SECRET GOVERNMENT AND THE DEATH OF DANNY CASOLARO

please do yourself and us a favor and read it..

and keep the kool aide away from me..no matter what you do ..i won't drink!!

[DaLittle Kitty]

218. Neither Barack Or Hillary Are Capable of Victory... Ck The FEC Reports, Both R CORPORATE!

BOTH TIED FOR MOST $$$$ FROM WALL STREET! :)

[lumberjack_jeff]

66. God forbid you waste your vote.

Every time someone says "don't throw away your vote" God kills a kitten.

[Yael]

69. Do you understand the concept of a primary?

if not, I am sure some nice individual will step in and fill you in. Just raise your hand and they will be along soon!

[bobbolink]

148. You're amazing. First you people cry about those who "don't vote their own best interest".

Yet, when we do, we get your disdain for that.

Got logic?

:crazy:

[VenusRising]

230. It's her vote to to do with as she wishes.

She obviously doesn't think it's a waste or she wouldn't do it.

Besides, voting for Edwards in the primary doesn't even equate to us ending up with McCain.

[SammyWinstonJack]

6. I will still vote for him if he is on my state primary ballot.

[flyarm]

190. he will be on your ballot..but the fix is in ..they robbed him here in fla

of that i have no doubt!!

fly

[DJ13]

7. Theres not enough inertia left to make him come back after Feb 5th

Sorry, but without campaigning and advertising his candidacy is over.

[Yael]

90. Thats not my goal. I can't speak for Saracat

but my goal is to have the one chance to voice my opinion. By the time it comes to PA, we will likely know who the candidate is going to be, so it won't matter any longer.

Your "advice" doesn't apply to everyone's situation.

[ronnykmarshall]

8. Sara Kitty ...

You vote what your heart tells you to do.

G'on girl!

[saracat]

11. Thanks Ronny. I have already voted!

[ronnykmarshall]

21. GOOD!

I was thinking about you when I heard about Edwards dropping out.

I'm glad you got your vote in for him.

But after the smoke clears after the conventions we need to remember what Bette Davis once said: "Fasten your seat belts, it's gonna be a bumpy night!"

[saracat]

71. Ronny, Did you get into the Debate?I hope so!

[ronnykmarshall]

85. No I didn't!

But that's ok. I'm loving being in the new house and we just got the Direct-TV up and running, so I'll grab a cat to pet and watch them two duke it out.

[saracat]

88. Good for you.My cats will be watching too!

[ronnykmarshall]

146. Our babies are still freaked out with the move.

They sound like elephants running around the house at night.

Can't wait until they chill out and come out during the day.

[Mother Of Four]

32. Ronny honey...

YOU have a ton of class.

:loveya:

[Yael]

76. Thanks for understanding Ronny!

[MADem]

10. He's done. People can do with their vote what they will, but JE is NOT going to get the crucial

fifteen percent he needs to accrue any more delegates. It's just not going to happen.

[saracat]

15. It will if people vote .

[MADem]

27. They WON'T, though. They just won't. The polls show his base melting faster

than the damn polar ice cap.

His supporters realize they have to go elsewhere. You need to start thinking about it....

[saracat]

37. There are no polls on this kind of thing. And I have done MY thinking thank you.I don't expect John

to win.I want to send a message. And anyone who thinks John was staying in just to WIN, didn't understand the campaign.

[MADem]

50. Look, you do whatever you want. Far be it from me to suggest a course of action to you.

You should be prepared for the likelihood that he won't gain a single delegate, though, and your message might be sorely muted against the backdrop of wins by one candidate or the other.

I thought he WAS in it to win it, actually. My sense is that he was hoping that there would be a perception that Clinton and Obama were very similar, and HE was the actual "change" candidate. The media never gave him any coverage, though, even when he WON the damn Myrtle Beach debate.

He just couldn't get any traction. The media wants this, IMO, to be McCain v. Obama, and they want McCain to win.

[kelligesq]

159. "media .......and they want McCain to win" you got that right

that's why they want McCain v Obama.

entire candidate choice on both sides manipulated by media.

[unapatriciated]

67. I also want to send a message.....

the message is I will not be silenced! Lame and I were supposed to vote early Tuesday. Something came up and we couldn't make it. We than heard Edwards had suspended his campaign. I decided for the first time since the early 70's I would not be voting in a primary. I saw little or no difference in Obama and Clinton. I have re-thought my decision and will be casting my vote for Edwards, if he is on my ballot. If his name is not there I will write him in or vote uncommitted. Two things changed my mind. One was the nasty comments on this board from Clinton and Obama supporters. The other was the word Edwards used "suspended".

[foxer]

59. I've been looking and there is no place to go. Gravel? Nader?

[MADem]

100. Well, you'll just have to relook at all the candidates, and revisit their platforms, and make a

choice.

Or not. It's up to you.

[foxer]

114. Really not seeing a "Winning" platform anywhere

[MADem]

121. Not all choices are clearcut for all people. Just keep digging. NT

[foxer]

126. I think I'll stick with JRE

[desertflamingo]

221. made my choice.

JOHN EDWARDS!!!

[bpeale]

95. i don't have to go anywhere else. are you just making it up as you go along?

[MADem]

96. Go check the polls, there, why doncha?

You do whatever you want--I could really give a shit one way or another what you do.

[bpeale]

122. THEN WHY REPLY? i am voting JRE in the general election

as long as i do not feel there is a qualified choice FOR ME, i will either vote JRE in the election or Nader.

[MADem]

123. Then why reply, indeed? You hopped in with the goal of "piling on"

as if I give a shit for whom you vote.

Throw your vote away for all I care, don't pick from the viable choices, don't vote at all if it is too much of a strain, you can even be an obstreperous ass if you'd like--it doesn't matter to me a bit.

You hopped into my reply to another person with an opinion, and then got pissed because I engaged you ... on a DISCUSSION board. This isn't a "Me, Too" chorus board--a fact you apparently missed.

[kelligesq]

26. His name is on the ballots, lots of us are very dissatisfied with what corporate media has done

and there is absolutely no reason why John Edwards would not accrue more delegates.

Your candidate and the other both want John's votes, delegates, endorsement....
but they'll have to agree to his populist platform in order to get it.

SO EDWARDS PEOPLE, VOTE FOR JOHN EDWARDS ON FEB 5 IN THE PRIMARIES, THE STRONGER JOHN IS, THE MORE WE THE PEOPLE WILL GET FROM THE REMAINING CANDIDATES

[MADem]

33. I SAID you can 'do what you will' but there's going to come a time when

his name ISN'T on the ballot, and that will be the general election, certainly.

I will wager that he doesn't pull in fifteen percent anywhere. If people want to 'protest vote' well, that's their choice.

[saracat]

40. I am not talking about the General.I am talking about NOW>

[orleans]

135. i have a question for you, sara...IMPORTANT QUESTION

i'm trying to grasp the difference between suspended and withdrawn

but while his campaign is "suspended" are you sure a vote for him now will not be tossed out? are you sure it will be counted?

when i was listening to randi today i thought she said the edwards early votes will not be counted now. usually she's pretty sharp about this kind of thing--i don't think she mentioned, at all, him getting delegates if he still gets 15 percent--i thought i heard her saying the vote will not count

so...again, my question...are you sure (and if so, how) will a vote for edwards be counted while his campaign is suspended.

because i was going to vote for him too...

[saracat]

158. She is absolutely wrong.Suspended means just that. Temporaily stopped active campaigning

but still in the race.He did not "Withdraw" in which case his delegates would have been released.He did not release them.In primary states, not sure about caucus, it may be different, unless they are "superdelegates" they are pledged. They are John's and as he is still on the ballot , people can still vote for him. And those votes must be counted.I can't for instance be deprived of my vote because I voted early. It was a legal vote. I think the early voting may give John a lot more votes than they think.I am still considering running to be an Edwards delegate in my state if he breaks the 15% threshold. This isn't about winning, though I read Russ Feingold won a primary that he had "suspended".This is about getting Delegates so we have a voice.I do not want the MSM picking my candidate or deciding whose voice is heard.

[Yael]

200. I just emailed Randi and asked her to stop taking shortcuts

If she means that delegates can't be awarded in various states because of the suspension, then she needs to SAY that.

You are about the fifth person today who has asked this because of how she is phrasing herself (tossed, thrown in the trash, etc...)

If you go look at SouthCarolina and Florida results -- you can see the vote count for Dennis.

Your vote (early, absentee OR Tuesday) WILL be counted.

[orleans]

210. thanks. and thanks for emailing her. (whenever i email her, which

i NEVER do anymore, it always gets returned--as if someone doesn't clean out their email box! same results with michael moore)

[kelligesq]

48. John Edwards name can be written in on the Primary ballot whether its electronic or paper- write in

is the rule...

and that's what I SAY - MADem

you are not MY authority or anyone else's here. You just go vote the way you
want and waste your vote.

[MADem]

94. WAAAAAAH!!!! "You are NOT my AUTHORITY...!!!"

Take a PILL.

Did I "order you" to vote any particular way? Did I not say, repeatedly throughout this thread, to do what you will?

Can't you read? Or are you just so goddamned miserable that you want to FIGHT with someone?

Do whatever the fuck you want!! Vote for Bozo the Clown if it makes you happy!!! Wipe your ass with your vote!! I really could give a shit what you do!

Got it? Clear enough for ya, there, sunshine?

:eyes:

[kelligesq]

152. your intelligence shows

NOT

[MADem]

153. Right backatcha, there, sunshine!

[stickernation]

219. oh shit

:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

this is like FIGHT CLUB !!!

[MADem]

225. What happens at fight club, STAYS at fight club!!!

[desertflamingo]

222. wow...

little testy are ya? sheesh...

[MADem]

224. Actually, I think it's funny as hell!

I'm not "testy" at all.

:rofl:

[mrreowwr_kittty]

13. He had to suspend the campaign so that he can continue to receive some funds

If he officially ends it he can't pay his staffers.

It doesn't change the fact that he ended his campaign. I'm sorry but you're going to have to accept that it's over.

[saracat]

24. There is truth to that but he can also accrue Delegates!

[foxer]

145. I heard he was the only one offering health care to his staff????

[kelligesq]

162. Yogi Berra: It aint over til its over" or til the fat lady sings if you prefer

[REDFISHBLUEFISH]

14. Please consider Hillary.

Very close on issues and both are big on health care for EVERYONE!

[ChiciB1]

139. Are You Serious??? Yeah, I Knew You Were Joking... Lots Of Laughs

going around these days!! It's ONLY JOHN for those who LOVE him. I can't even watch any more debates... there's a huge HOLE there!!!

[bdamomma]

you got that right, a big hole.

[foxer]

144. She was in all the debates:-)

[SaveAmerica]

232. I do not like her in a house, I do not like her with a mouse, I do not like

Senator C., I will not vote for her, you see.

[Mojorabbit]

16. In a post above yours

four of his delegates just went over for Obama.

[saracat]

29. They can say that but until he releases them , unless they are superdelegates, they aren't free to

do so.There is a de facto Obama endorsement but not a vote.

[hlthe2b]

53. I don't believe that is true... NPR interviewed several Iowa delegates

that had been pledged to Edwards. They indicated they were free to decide who to vote for. I think it varies by state and possibly district...

[Clarkansas]

17. This reminds me of the "Gore can still get in!" posts.

Edwards, Kucinich, Biden, Dodd and Richardson aren't trying to be President anymore. I am not going to vote for someone who isn't trying to be President.

[saracat]

34. This is about more than being president.This is sending a message.

[Clarkansas]

63. My message is: I don't want Hillary to be our nominee

I think that message is heard a little better if I vote for Obama.

[kelligesq]

161. Sara, voting for John influenes the two candidates and dem platform - gives John the power to do so

caause both want his delegates and endorsement so badly

In order to get his delegates and endorsement they have to agree to his
asking that they take on his platform or specific parts of it.

[H2O Man]

25. "Suspended"

allows him to continue to pay his staff until they find other jobs.

Although he is definitely out, I think that Edwards supporters who still vote for him are making a valid and important statement.

[kelligesq]

35. i'm not letting cnn and msnbc choose my candidate - I'll vote for Edwards right thru the

convention.

[Yael]

77. Thank you for *getting it*

:hi:

[Peace Patriot]

99. It seems to me voting for Edwards will give it to Hillary, at this point.

Polls have been running roughly 50-40-10, give or take. That means that Obama needs Edwards' votes to win. So if that's the effect you want (Hillary winning), vote for Edwards. Am I wrong?

H20-Man, what do you think of this? I need an astute opinion. I'm in CA and haven't voted yet. Of the two remaining candidates, Clinton and Obama, I think Obama is more likely to change the direction of the country. Clinton seems clearly to be gungho pro-corporate, pro-war and pro-badness in general, with very few redeeming features (--although there is always the possibility that she is just one foxy lady in a parlous Bushite world). I would have voted for Edwards, if he'd stayed in. What do I do now?

I spend most of my volunteer time on election reform, cuz I don't think the guys who own and control the "trade secret" code that "counts" all our votes give a flying fuck what I think, and can freely 'disappear' my vote whenever they want. They proved it in FL-13 in 2006. (I've looked into it. I know they can do it--EASILY--even in CA, where I live, and where we now have a reforming SoS.) But there is always the possibility that the people, voting in great numbers, can outvote the choices of the corporate rulers. And against that possibility, I will never, NEVER give up on voting, or "throw away" my vote. (Did it once--1968. Never again!)

So what do we dilemma-ridden Edwards voters do? And if it's vote for Edwards, goddamnit, to try to give him some more delegates, or whatever, are we not, in essence, giving the nomination to Clinton?

[Peace Patriot]

108. H20-Man, see my Calif Election Integrity Assessment...

Election Reform forum:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=203x496453

GD: Primaries
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x4316990

GD: (national and long-term implications)
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x2799968

[H2O Man]

111. I will!

Thank you.

[H2O Man]

109. I would agree

that in many states, a vote for John Edwards helps Senator Clinton maintain a lead over Senator Obama. If a person really thinks that there is no difference between Clinton and Obama, then I can understand how they would think voting for Edwards is the thing to do.

If a person thinks Clinton is better than Obama, then a vote for Edwards also makes sense.

If a person thinks that Obama is better than Clinton, than they need to give very serious thought to who they vote for.

No matter which democrat a person votes for, I thank them for going to the poll and participating in the process.

For several years, I have wrote about how after the morning events of 9/11, VP Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld installed the "shadow government." This is not an opinion, it is verified in sources ranging from the Washington Post to Senator Byrd's book "Losing America." While I will not recommend anyone vote for a particular democratic candidate (or against one), I would ask people to think about that "shadow government." Think about each of the two candidates still in the running. And I trust people to decide.

[Yael]

119. This is rather cryptic

Do you have any threads here that go into more detail?

[H2O Man]

127. I'll post one now.

My journal here on DU and my blog have much more on the shadow government.

[Yael]

136. Beauty! This sounds like interesting reading.

Thanks!

[Tatiana]

206. I agree with this assessment. I hope Edwards' voters consider it.

[Yuugal]

233. I am.

But I still want you to know I am an Edwards voter right to the bitter end, that end probably being tuesday when the curtain closes behind me and I hold my nose and yank the lever for Obama because logic beats passion sometimes.

IMHO, Hillary can't win and even if she did it would hurt the party. I don't want us losing congress, even the hated Pelosi/Reid congress, in 2010 for another 12 years like the last time we had a corporate Clinton.

Obama needs to smarten up and toss the working class/poor vote a few more populist bones. If he does he can still get most of the Edwards vote and have a chance. If he continues trying to be Hillary-lite well then I give up.

[ChiciB1]

157. And THAT Statement For Me Is That I Won't Compromise AGAIN!!

This time I'm sending my own message to those in POWER! You screwed me one too many times and if this is the ONLY way I can actually get any response from them, then so be it.

I only wish more of us would STAND TALL and send a REAL message that would KNOCK THEM OFF THEIR FEET!! You see, I was under the impression that THEY are supposed to be working for US. Why I got THAT impression slips my mind right now, but I KNOW I felt it before.

I KNOW I can't call MY REPRESENTATIVE or MY SENATORS and actually believe they know I exist! Actually I KNOW they don't know I exist. I never hear from them, UNLESS they want my money!

So it's time for me to say "Up Yours" and if it's only my one voice, it's my HEART speaking too!

[AnneD]

220. Thank you..

the message to Dem leaders is everything.

[Guava Jelly]

30. John is my man..And I wish like hell he was still running but..

He has stopped his campaign and I must vote my head since I can't vote my heart now.
I have decided to vote for Obama..No I am not in love with him as a candidate.
But I believe he can pull more independents than Clinton and has a better chance of winning the presidency.
Because it is either a republican White house who will follow the policies of Bush2 or
a Democratic White house who we can at least bargain with.

[kelligesq]

41. Still voting for John not only gives him power over the platform but

there could always be a movement to draft John or he could come back from "suspend"..."suspend" is not necessarily drop out. His matching funds do not come through until March...nice the way the gubmint screwed the only candidate only taking matching funds.:sarcasm:

[Shine]

42. I'm starting to lean that way, too, GoPsUx

but I'm still not 100%....hmmm...

I'm soooo bummed about Edwards leaving. :cry:

[Guava Jelly]

116. Yeah it is a tough deal

In a perfect world We would be saying goodbye to President Gore right now...Fucking scotus..

[saracat]

46. If he is your candidate the least you can do is get him some delegates!

This isn't the general for gods sake and the difference between these two candidates is minimal.Might as well cast your vote to send a message. Unless you feel we have no "choice' and must accept whatever the MSM gives us.

[Guava Jelly]

112. I am all about getting him delegates

But the thing about delegates is that they are human.
They may vote for the person that I believe will lose the general election.
So If I cast that vote it could come back to kick me in the nuts.
Believe me I feel for you and admire the cause.
I started out as a Richardson man and drifted toward Edwards and now I must drift on.

[southerncrone]

196. And I'm ALLLLLL about the Cowbell!!! Go! Walken!

[hlthe2b]

36. Saracat, he only suspended to be able to collect matching Fed $$

so that he can pay his campaign debt. Don't throw your vote away! I'm undecided re: Obama v HRC, having been strongly supportive of Edwards... But come my caucus next Tuesday, I will vote for one or the other. It is too important. We'll hear from John & Elizabeth again, but they would not want you to throw your vote away....

[saracat]

39. I already voted and no one throws their vote away by vying for Delegates.

You are IMHO opinion throwing your vote away by voting for one of the others.You are letting youre voice be stifled

[hlthe2b]

45. Once a candidate withdraws their delegates are no longer

committed. That, to me, is throwing your vote away. I adore John and Elizabeth and will lobby for them to be in whichever administration we end up in or back them in any other endeavor or even a future run. But, I see nothing to be gained by what you suggest. I wish I did...

[kelligesq]

163. JOHN HASNT RELEASED HIS DELEGATES-which is why 0 & HRC are after John to give his dels & endorsement

to them.

Again the MSM reports Obama is really putting heavy pressure on to get those delegates. Which means he knows he doesnt have enough electoral votes.

[hlthe2b]

172. As I posted it is not that simple and there really is NO hold

on these delegates in any binding sense of the term. Read the following:
http://www.mydd.com/story/2008/1/30/235933/332

What's up with Edwards' delegates
by msn1, Wed Jan 30, 2008 at 11:59:33 PM EST

With Edwards dropping out, one question is, what happens to his delegates? Let's take a look:

First, according to 2008 Democratic Convention Watch, Edwards had 27 public superdelegate endorsements. CNN had (actually, still has) it at 36. Doesn't matter. They're all now available. A superdelegate endorsement can change at any time anyway, so Edwards superdelegates are free to support anyone.

Now, on to his pledged delegates. Edwards won 4 delegates in New Hampshire, 14 in Iowa, and 8 in South Carolina. The New Hampshire delegates have been already chosen, so he "keeps" them. Who they end up voting for at the convention is another matter.

In Iowa, Edwards received 14 delegates, but they were split. 5 were state-level delegates, and 9 were Congressional District (CD)-level delegates. The CD-level delegates are basically history. First, there are county conventions, and then CD conventions. Since Edwards won't meet the 15% threshold at the county conventions, he won't have any representation at the CD conventions, and won't get any CD-level delegates. Where they go at this point is impossible to say. As noted in the comments, the state-level delegates are chosen in the state convention, and as Edwards won't meet the 15% threshold, he won't get any state-level delegates either.

South Carolina is more complicated. But reading the South Carolina Delegate Selection Plan, they essentially have a convention system similar to Iowa's, except the final number of delegates selected for each candidate has to match the numbers out of the primary. There's no mention of a candidate "releasing" his delegates, so for now, I'll assume Edwards gets to name his 8 delegates, but, I think we need a South Carolina expert to weigh in on this. (Again, who they end up voting for at the convention is another matter).

Remember a couple of things. There is no first-ballot "vote for your candidate" rule at the Democratic Convention. Technically, any delegate is free to vote for any candidate on any ballot. (There may be state rules mandating a vote - we're still looking into that). Therefore, there is no such thing as a "legal" release of delegates. There is a political "release" - almost all delegates will vote for their candidate unless their candidate tells them they don't have to. But from a Rules point of view, a "release" of delegates mean nothing.

And therefore, it doesn't matter whether Edwards "ended" his campaign or "suspended" it as far as his delegates go. My guess is he will tell any delegates he has left that they can vote for who they want, or he could endorse someone and tell his delegates to vote for that person. But it doesn't matter from a rules point of view. They can vote for anybody at any time anyway, regardless of what Edwards did or say today or does in the future.

[Yael]

81. Throw our votes away?

Like if I vote for Obama and Hillary wins -- have I thrown my vote away?

No -- because my VOTE is my VOICE and I am here to say that the MSM needs to stay the frickan frack OUT of this process. I am here to say that I SUPPORT John Edwards' MESSAGE. I am here to say that you (collective) can shut me up for 4 years, but on this ONE damn day, I will be heard.

But thanks for playing.

[bpeale]

103. i'm sorry but last time i looked i still owned my vote

John & Elizabeth do not get to dictate how i will spend it. i'm voting for John now and in the general election. i don't give a fat rats ass what you do with yours and i don't consider mine "thrown away" ... ever.

[foxer]

138. On another post, they were selling theirs on E-Bay

[Yael]

201. Bwahahaha!

Let me guess. TahitiNut? Sniffa?

:rofl:

[bpeale]

235. good idea! thanks for the suggestion!

[Arugula Latte]

38. Sorry -- My main priority at this point is that Hillary goes away.

I think Obama will be a very good candidate; Hillary will be horrible. I'm voting Obama.

[saracat]

43. How sad.What a reason to vote.There isn't a nickels worth of difference between them

but I respect you right to vote for whomever.I want to send a message.

[hlthe2b]

47. Really? How will you feel if Edwards endorses one of them?

[saracat]

52. That is his business but I won't necesarily support his choice.

I have alreadfy voted in the primary anyway!

[ChiciB1]

54. It Would Be Best If He DOESN'T... Just Endorse His Supporters Instead!! n/t

[SammyWinstonJack]

57. I don't care who Edwards endorses. His endorsement of either candidate doesn't mean I support them.

I can make my own mind up, just as I did when I supported Edwards.

[Yael]

72. He gets as many votes in the General as I do

I don't care who he endorses. I have always thought for myself on that issue.

[Arugula Latte]

55. Bottom line: I want a Democrat to win to save the Supreme Court.

Reality says, the nominee will be Obama or Clinton. Are they both too corporate? Yes. However, I think Obama will beat the Republican (McCain), handily. Hillary will not. I'd rather have Obama choosing justices than McCain. That's not trivial to me; that's everything.

[kelligesq]

68. When you vote for Obama you are playing into the corporate media's plan - McCain

will be president and say hello to a hundred year war.

As far as the Supremes, didnt you notice that our progressive congress voted
right wingers Alito and Roberts in - and also voted "it's not torture" Mukasy in
as AG?

[Arugula Latte]

73. I feel strongly that a vote for Hillary is a vote for McCain.

She won't win in the general.

[kelligesq]

165. I strongly believe that the MSM wants Obama vs McCain because

they know the entire country will not vote for Obama - giving us another 8 yers
of rethuglicans,McCain, tax cuts for the rich for another 10 years or permanentely and a 100 year war plus wars on other fronts.

Guaranteed Obama cannot and will not win against McCain.

[Arugula Latte]

191. Hillary is the one Republicans are hoping to run against.

They will beat her like a drum.

[bpeale]

107. the only vote you can control is YOURS not mine

thank god, we each only get one vote

[Arugula Latte]

192. Well, no kidding.

Of course I can't control other people's votes. Only Diebold and Sequoia can do that.

[southerncrone]

199. Sadly, my personal decision is the same based on the same analysis.

AGAIN......We're force to chose "the lesser of 2 evils".

I'm beginning to wonder if I'M a Democrat anymore.

Is it me or is it them that doesn't possess the true Dem traits?:shrug:

[newmajority]

106. Has there been an "Obama" on the ballot any time in the last nearly three decades?

Right there is significantly more than a dime's difference.

I have a great deal of respect for John Edwards, but he has given up this battle. Hillary Clinton is not an option, if you ever want this country to return to what it used to be.

[Yael]

202. Thanks, but this primary I am going to vote for someone

not against one.

[foxer]

80. Tired of voting against candidates, want to vote for someone

[Arugula Latte]

117. I'd like to, too.

In the meantime, I'll do what I think is best for the Supreme Court.

[Dawgs]

44. Oh shit. Not this again.

[Ashy Larry]

49. I admire your loyalty but...

I don't think Joe Trippi would be crying if it wasn't really over.

Standing on the muddy ground as he waited for Mr. Edwards to arrive here, Mr. Trippi wiped away a tear, his voice trembling as he talked about what went wrong.

“We couldn’t break through,” he said. “I feel like I let him down. I should have been able to think of something.”

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/31/us/politics/31edwards.html?_r=2&ref=politics&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

At this point, I would encourage Edwards supporters to follow Mudcat Saunders example and do everything they can to stop Hillary.

[saracat]

56. If you want to look at it that way, Delegates can give you the power to do that too!

[RiverStone]

87. a question for you...

Appreciate your loyalty to a wonderful man with great vision...but,

How does your strategy help the Dems beat McCain/Mitt in the fall?

The sooner we pool our resources, the better. A brokered convention may be great drama - but it would be very bad for our party and waste tons of energy that otherwise could go to defeat a common enemy --- the puke nominee.

[kelligesq]

58. Dont worry, corporate media is screwing Hillary the same way they did John

right now...all day...everything ahs been obama obama obama shining light,
and bad bad hillary ...

go sheeple go, do their bidding, I'm still voting for John Edwards

[Yukari Yakumo]

62. Your argument doesn't hold water when you add McCain into the equation. {nt}

uguu

[kelligesq]

75. Read again. McCain is the candidate of the corporate media.

think about it.

[foxer]

93. So are Hillary and Obama, wakeup!

[kelligesq]

151. You're right - as is shown here:

This is how the corporate media and corporate control over this country picked your candidates for you

[ChiciB1]

51. I Already Voted Here... But I Want To Say To All... VOTE FOR HIM...

Vote For Him because it's the CORRECT thing to do!! Show him the respect he deserves. There's more to the story of him leaving, don't KNOW what it is... just KNOW there is!

I have NEVER seen John Edwards flub a speech like he did yesterday... HE DOESN'T do it! He talks from the hip and he was "reading" from a prepared script. My bones, my gut almost everything tells me that this was "cooked!"

And I DON'T care if you agree or not... I don't care at all! I will vote for him in the GE or NPA, however it comes up on these "freakin" machines down in my county her in Florida!

[indigoblue]

60. John "suspended" his campaign

I think because he didn't want to profit the corporate media any more from the three-way horse race. He was getting donations from small people like us, and most money has been going to TV ads to profit the media who was marginalizing him. That was a vicious cycle. The corporate media hates grassroots movement because it won't make them any money. Let's take John to the convention without giving a dime to them!

:bounce:

[foxer]

98. Bypass the media, use E=mail and flyers

[saracat]

110. Absolutely ! Rock On!

[foxer]

137. Remember the Burma Shave signs, something like those?

[kelligesq]

164. Hey Foxer - Burma road signs??? LOLOLOL grinning - no time til Feb 5 tho

[foxer]

175. Weren't ya always looking for the next one?

[Califooyah Operative]

169. I can assure you,

He didn't 'suspend' his campaign because "he didn't want to profit the corporate media any more from the three-way horse race." He did it as opposed to completely dropping out so he keeps control of the delegates he's earned thus far.

[jannyk]

61. I respect and admire you Saracat and JE has our votes for Tues

-they went in early and I am not the slightest bit sorry they did.
However, after that I will support Clinton - not with enthusiasm and joy, as I did John - but I figure one of the bastards has to win and I'd like some say in who it is.

I feel as you do Saracat, bereft, bewildered and angry (not at John). If there was a snowball's chance of him coming back into the fray - I'd be there with him in a second. He has my vote for Tuesday, my Edwards stickers will stay up, but I can't sit this one out even though my heart tells me to.

We may part ways down the road, but in my heart I'll always be an Edwards supporter, ready to rise up if John gives the 'call' and we'll always share that.

:hug:

[Little Star]

64. Saracat, I did hear John say that he wanted his people to take

time, there is no rush (i'm paraphrasing here). I did not know what he meant by that, but did think there was some kind of message in it (maybe I'm wrong). If you are correct and his name will be on the ballots that probably means he can win delegates, I would think. You may just have something in your way of thinking. John was/is my second choice as I support Hillary. I would never think of trying to influence who you should choose when there are no other options left (if that ends up being the case).

It makes me sick when either Hillary or Obama people act like vultures after the bones of JRE. That is just nasty.

Use your own mind and just ignore the rest of us.

Best of Luck, LS :hug:

[saracat]

92. Thank you.You are a sweetheart!

[kelligesq]

166. I wonder if that means he cant do anything until March when he receives the fed matching funds-that

he has to stay "suspended" until the funds come in.

a lot can happen between now and March, and between March and November

McCain was finished and came back alive.

John is "suspended" - who knows maybe he could come back

after all, this is a highly unusual election

[Yael]

65. Are they going through with the ad buys or did they cancel them all?

[saracat]

70. I haven't heard they cancelled them. Hmmm?

[2hip]

78. Good question! How do we find out?

[Helga Scow Stern]

74. Good idea! n/t

[redqueen]

79. I'm voting for him... UNLESS he endorses one of the two.

Then I'll follow his lead.

[redwitch]

82. I will cast my vote for John in the primary here on Tuesday.

:hug:

[Infinite Hope]

83. I'm caucusing for Obama. I won't vote for Hillary in GE, so I want to prevent her nomination. n/t

[Yael]

86. Caucus is a whole different ballgame

:thumbsup:

[Yael]

84. Saracat, He has my vote -- or better, his message has my vote.

I couldn't care less if Candidate A or Candidate B is the party choice. Let them fight over it. Just have someone shoot me a note in August and let me know whether it was heads or tails on the coin toss.

If my spokesperson is gone, and this upcoming primary is the only time my voice will be heard, then it will be heard come hell or high water.

[MissDeeds]

89. I am voting for Edwards

I noticed that John Edwards said his campaign was "suspended", not ended. He is the only candidate who truly, totally represents my concerns and carries the issues forward that I feel are of critical importance. He IS my candidate, and I WILL vote for him. This election is too important to choose between the media selected options. We must vote our conscience, and for me, that is John Edwards.

[asdjrocky]

91. Feb 5, he's got my vote.

[Yael]

97. Thanks for the thread -- I added 3 more to my

ignore collection just in the opening posts.

:rofl:

[Yael]

133. Up to 5

Nice collection. :D

[GoldieAZ49]

101. we are weakening John's voice NOT

oh for pity's sake

JOHN weakened JOHN"S VOICE

what the hell, I am in, now I am out "suspended", then he will come back in?

He campaigned in Iowa for 4 years and only got 15% same for his HOME STATE

he has no political capital at the convention, the Super Delegates do

John has gone back to his mansion, leave him alone

[saracat]

115. Bye! This isn't your thread. You aren't an Edwards supporter!

[Binka]

168. Gee Goldie Did You Sign On To DU To Shit On Long Timers & Spew RW Points

Go back to his mansion? Thanks Rush. BTW Goldie while you are watering your head in the garden think of this.... John beat Hillary in Iowa. Jesus GAWD :wtf:. You new kids on the block need to learn some manners.

[tavalon]

102. How does that work in a caucus state?

[Peace Patriot]

104. For a California Election Integrity Assessment that I just completed--

evaluating the CA voting system--see these threads:

Election Reform forum: (lots of useful CA Feb 5 Primary info):
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=203x496453

GD: Primaries
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x4316990

GD: (national, long term implications)
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x2799968

[troubleinwinter]

105. I will vote EDWARDS, Tuesday, Feb. 5 in Arizona.

[Mr. McD]

113. I don't have much choice in the matter

I mailed in my ballet the day before he dropped out. I was sure I heard him say at one point that he was in it till the end. I would have voted differently. If I wanted to waste my vote I would have voted for Gravel.

[bpeale]

120. a vote duly cast is not a wasted vote

however, a vote NOT cast is a vote wasted WHETHER YOU AGREE WITH THE CASTER OF THAT VOTE IS IMMATERIAL.

[balantz]

118. I'll be voting for him Tuesday here in AZ.

I suggest we continue to post big check-in threads to remind Edwards supporters to stay on board and to ask their family and friends to do so. That's the word I "gleaned" from the campaign emails.

[golddigger]

128. Still voting for John in the primaries...n/t

[balantz]

130. Howdy!

My ex-wife was born in Sweet Home. I lived with her and her family in Molalla and Mulino in the eighties.

[ksilvas]

131. Still voting for him in Tennessee

Because I do what I say I'm gonna do.

[ChiciB1]

160. Good Idea... Let's Keep It Together Because I Don't Want To Forget!

My loyalty is seriously DEEP! I've supported other candidates in my time, but I have never been as committed as I am this time.

Oh, Bobby would have gotten this kind of loyalty... BUT!! I was going to add more, but decided not to.

[kelligesq]

167. Yeah. I was crushed when Bobby "went". I had just gotten the application

to work on his campaign. there's more to that story, I saw David and Robert Jr.
that day of the funeral behind St. Patricks - eyes met filled with pain - can still see it.

I'm hopeful for John Edwards - but not crushed.

[More Than A Feeling]

124. K+R!

[pleah]

125. K&R

[vanbean]

132. I feel voting for Obama or Hillary is throwing away my vote.

How will voting for someone you think will not stand up for you in Washington be the right thing to do. He has my vote on the 5th.

[foxer]

140. Thats just cause you didn't pay them $100,000,000

They will stand up for them!

[knight_of_the_star]

141. I'm with you saracat!

So what if he's still out, he can still have heft and sway in the party. Remember, Ike was drafted.

[bdamomma]

142. I will vote for him on my primary that is not until March 4th.

I miss him, I am watching the debate but switch back to Keith for his special comment tonite, not the same without John. The wound is still sore.

[NoSheep]

143. I'll vote for him.

[bobbolink]

147. Damn, you're good!

You've become a hero to me, and this post shows why!

I LOVE fighters! :loveya:

You just straightened my spine. :hi:

:hug:

[patrice]

149. I will caucus for Edwards in Kansas. nt

[kelligesq]

150. JOHN EDWARDS BLOG (for members) FRONT PAGE IS CARRYING THIS:

apparently borrowed by someone here and I take it as a positive agreement to our
efforts to continue voting for John Edwards on Feb 5


VOTE FOR JOHN E - GIVE HIM THE POWER

John Edwards has framed the issues all along - Single Payer healthcare, not

Universal, lobbyists out of the elections, America taking care of and giving a

chance for affordable college, taking care of our Vets, bringing home our

people from Iraq within a year without permanent bases in Iraq, restoring

America and every issue until Obama and Clinton "borrowed" his populist stance.

But "borrowing" words is not a commitment to carry them out whichever

one gets the nomination for the general election.

That is why we must must must continue to vote for John Edwards on Feb 5

The more delegates he collects even though he has "suspended" his campaign (I

suspect because of the MSM essentially boycotting coverage of him and the

failure of the feds to match funds until March) the more power John will have to

extract a written committment from either or both candidates to adhere to John's

and our populist issues .




This is how the corporate media and corporate control over this country picked your candidates for you

[kelligesq]

156. K & R

[Gloria]

154. It's John for me in NM on Tues....

[RestoreGore]

Well then, he's got my vote in NJ

Wasn't aware I could do this... I'll check to see if his name is still on the ballot, and if it is he has my vote in the priamry Tuesday. Screw this corporate media telling us who to vote for!

[RestoreGore]

155. Well then, he's got my vote in NJ

Wasn't aware I could do this... I'll check to see if his name is still on the ballot, and if it is he has my vote in the priamry Tuesday. Screw this corporate media telling us who to vote for!

[Der Blaue Engel]

171. He has my vote

:thumbsup:

[earth mom]

173. K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R! K & R!

:kick:

[greguganus]

174. Yeah and maybe Gore will run.

:eyes:

[bigtree]

176. Actually, my vote in my state may well determine between Obama or Clinton

who will advance. I can't just think of delegates.

[blindpig]

177. Let's think ahead

By all means, we should continue to support the Edwards agenda. But I'm afraid we all know how it's going to pan out, the Dem primary, that is, a corporate canonization. Do we give up then?

The primary thrust of the Edwards campaign was economic justice. Though tactical considerations were also a draw, I think most Edwards supporters backed him because of what he was saying about economic justice, about class. So now, whatcha gonna do?

Do you get out the old clothespin again, shrug and sigh, and just let it go? Do you abandon the bedrock issue ailing our society just because Edwards gave up? Of the two "choices" presented for your approval do you think that they will do anything to rein in the crushing power of Big Money? Viewed from that aspect, there is no choice at all.

Whatcha gonna do? Go back to whining about being marginalized, hoping things will be better next time? How long, Lord, how long? How's it feel to be a battered wife?

The message that Edwards was pronouncing was much bigger, much more important than his candidacy. He was marginalized for even bringing it up. If you care, are you gonna be silenced by one man's decision?

People are always hollering "Do something!" Maybe we should talk about that.

(Repost, in part)

[robbedvoter]

179. "suspended" doesn't mean he'll get delegates. Not that I disagree with your voting

your candidate of choice - I did in 2004. I posted this just for the sake of information. Clark had used the exact words in 2004, we wondered about the same things.

[PATRICK]

180. True

and I will likely vote for him no matter what on Tuesday. However, no attempt was and no attempt likely could have been made that would stop the stampede of voters presuming they have to choose one of the other two or sit it out. That guarantees few delegates, if any, because John's threshold was already pretty tight to sink below double digits. Now if both candidates were caught in an orgy or something, John might jump back in, but the darkness of any vacuum is not a very bright hope as impossible as it already is. Perhaps he felt the he was merely causing the fight for percentages to become bitterly negative and wrongly competitive by holding onto decisive chunks. Perhaps he knows as do the other campaigns what the results are very likely to be whether he stays in or not. In retrospect i think his last speech will be revealing and indeed one that concludes this was the best for the party and country he could do.

Delegates are even jumping ship as are campaign workers and staff. It certainly is not about disloyalty but the need to keep engaging the process. All of this, including leaving it freely to us to continue voting for Edwards, is something Edwards signed onto realistically in the "suspension". I think it may become evident after the smoke clears why he did so before Super Tuesday. But the delegate power is just not there. Your personal voter integrity is and you needn't worry about swinging a close contest one way or the other because the majority of Edwards' supporters who will vote at all are switching. And I don't give a crap if the treasonous fake corporate media has anything to say about anything ever.

This is my chance to have my say in this election and I'm using it to vote for Edwards. Millions will not follow me and it will make little statistical note along with the other remnant not falling in line with the fading horse race. Millions are certainly not following any of the dramatic endorsements either, I would guess. If this was just another American election you could write a lot comparable to what has already happened before. No, it is the future that makes our antics and judgment interesting and appalling. before the best generation comes a lousy dull-eyed one that creates the heroic scenery of massive screw ups and the fight against the scum that somehow sidled to the top of everything. No one will be able to argue in the slightest that despite the saving graces of individuals and clear sighted movements, this is the age of stupid, the smiling deer gazing into history's headlights. If we escape it it won't be because we deserved to. If the casualties and sufferings and loss of liberties aren't monstrous we will likely be too unappreciative to know how damned lucky we were.

The memes and the odds that began this campaign have more or less remained and dominate the outcome, despite stellar success by Obama and incredible issue building by Edwards and Kucinich and others. You can blame the media in part for that, moreso the money and not so great party leadership behind the scenes and behind the eight ball. In essence the people settled into their basic inertial state now heaving with some undetermined expectation toward November. The overall dominant moods and ideas and loyalties never really change much. Dems expect it to be their year and will work for it. At least we have that right.

[onehandle]

181. Hmm. nt

[Yael]

193. Hmm?

[onehandle]

194. Just something to think about.

Not sure what I'm doing on Tuesday.

[Yael]

197. Vote your heart -- and best to your candidate

:hug:

[Seabiscuit]

182. 2 more votes for Edwards here in California!

[bdamomma]

183. I am voting for Edwards in my primary even if I have to write him in.

March 4th RI, and just my opinion, those people who still wish to vote for him should, cause we should not let the media win, again this filthy media is manipulating us, and took away the candidates who were viable and truthful by not giving those candidates any play. I will not let the media tell me who to vote for.

[earth mom]

184. Error: You've already recommended that thread. nt

[Grateful for Hope]

185. Thank you for posting this, saracat.

Kicked and recommended.

[midnight]

186. I like this Idea...

[smoogatz]

195. Good luck with that.

I admire your... well, whatever it is.

[Yael]

198. Thank you for your well wishes!

[readmoreoften]

I'm voting for him. /nt

[readmoreoften]

203. I'm voting for him. /nt

[DianaForRussFeingold]

204. K&R Exactly-- this isn't over unless we give in to the MSM

I have noticed, all of a sudden Obama supporters believe the corporate owned, dis-empowering, talking heads .
They won't listen to anyone who questions any of Obama's positions (or lack,there of) and
they shun that person, for having the curiosity to question their candidate.
They seem to have unconditional devotion to Obama, and that's what's, scary...

Question-
Obama or Hillary supporters-did you get an e-mail like this???


I Asked the Question-- Will the only Constitutional scholar in the race take a stand on retroactive immunity for the telecoms?
Will Obama filibuster the FISA Bill?
I honestly think he plays it politically safe, when it comes to the really important issues?
I find he uses a great deal of platitudes and double speak...
If he doesn't take a real stand on this,what will he take a stand on?
http://www.correntewire.com/will_the_only_constitutional_scholar_in_the_race_take_a_stand_on_retroactive_immunity_for_the_telcos

Here's another example--We have absolutely no evidence Obama would have voted,
let alone vote NO to WAR with Iraq!

When Obama actually did have a chance, to vote NO to WAR--
Obama and another candidate (McCain) played it politically safe--
and didn't show up!
Mike Gravel Exposes Clinton & Obama on Iran- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3gQfz8GC0o

Obama mentioning Reagan the way he did, had a tremendous impact,on the media and the GOP candidates and NOT in a good way.
Did Obama know he was using double speak that really amounted to dis-empowering Democrats...the excesses of The 60's and 70's!!!
WHAT???--That's the era of civil rights!

Note, how he ties JFK in with Ronald Reagan's legacy---
Barack Obama on Ronald Reagan with JFK quote
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGS7Ku0_JuI
Great op on the subject http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x2705684

The True Legacy of Ronald Reagan;
Look at the Closed Minds and Hard Hearts of the Conservatives who Staff the Bush Administration
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0608-04.htm

"In the very name of supposedly empowering the people, Barack Obama and many of his supporters are actually about the business of disempowering people," http://www.blackcommentator.com/259/259_keeping_it_real_obama_double_speak.html

(The Media Game)What Obama Really Means http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=132&topic_id=4194873

"He has mastered the game instead of the ideals, applies his genius to playing the angles instead of changing the world for the better."

Joe Lieberman: Barack Obama's "Mentor in the Senate."
http://vichydems.blogspot.com/2006/04/joe-lieberman-barack-obamas-mentor-in.html

FDR with a Southern Accent-
http://www.opednews.com/maxwrite/print_friendly.php?p=opedne_stephen__071223_edwards_is_fdr_with_.htm

:dem: We've done without checks and balances too long!
If people don't wake up soon,
we'll have a faux media created, celebrity as president.
I'm voting for John Edwards! :kick:

[kristopher]

205. Sara I appreciate your sentiment

However, I believe you are leaving something out of your analysis. Edwards could have stayed in the running through supertuesday, but he didn't. Why not?

One thing you can say about him is that his evaluations of events and circumstances is realistic - I think that is one of the main reasons I support him. So why did he choose to drop out before the big day?

I believe it is because he recognizes that he is moving into the roll of spoiler. Huckabee stays in and pulls votes from Romney - McCain is the nominee when he otherwise wouldn't be.

Nader in 2000.

Move On just polled it's members and the vote was 70% for Obama. If Edwards had still been in do you think Obama would have scored like that?

John couldn't win. Is it fair the way he was marginalized? No, it isn't. But it is none the less a fact that he was and he no longer had a hope of winning.

I think there is a significant difference between Obama and Hillary. I'd prefer Edwards, but lacking that choice, I think on the issue of race unity alone Obama is the best choice; but there is also the war, so I think the general trend is going to be for John's supporters to break heavily for Obama.

If you would prefer Hillary to win the nomination, then your advice that Edward's supporters lodge protest votes is appropriate. Otherwise I urge you to save the protest for a moment when it is more positively meaningful.

[Yael]

208. And what you are missing from the equasion

is that Edwards supporters have been listening to the candidates for a year now in what feels like 500 debates.

Many have moved on to Obama and Hillary.

Many more have weighed them and found them wanting.

I don't mean to offend you -- but many of us are voting for John for his message and many are voting because we just don't care if Candidate A or Candidate B is nominated. We will break with the party and stand behind the nom in the General -- but this isn't the general and we don't have a dog in the race.

I can appreciate that you would like us to not "throw our votes away" and send them to Obama -- but what if we all decided to vote for Hillary instead. Heads, we win because we voted our conscience and neither Barack or Hillary gained from it. Tails, you loose because we all just voted AGAINST your candidate.

Recommend you vote FOR your candidate as we will be voting FOR ours, not AGAINST the one you don't want to win.

:hi:

[kristopher]

209. Yael, you don't speak for all of Edwards' supporters.

I find it fascinating that you refuse to accept that John is my preference and pontificate as if your voice as a supporter is somehow have more relevant than those who disagree with your opinion.

I wrote "I think there is a significant difference between Obama and Billary. I'd prefer Edwards, but lacking that choice, I think on the issue of race unity alone Obama is the best choice; but there is also the war, so I think the general trend is going to be for John's supporters to break heavily for Obama.

If you would prefer Hillary to win the nomination, then your advice that Edward's supporters lodge protest votes is appropriate. Otherwise I urge you to save the protest for a moment when it is more positively meaningful."

You can't win all the battles with a single vote. Whether you accept my reasoning or not, it remains true that I've probably given an accurate description of the circumstances. If you wish to continue fighting yesterday's fight, by all means, have at it. I understand your anger for I share it; I just think you are cutting off your nose to spite your face.


So let me ask again" Why did Edwards drop out BEFORE super tuesday???

[Yael]

211. You will have to ask the Senator that

Why are you pontificating in a thread titled "Edwards Supporters..." if you only goal is to stir up strife?

I am speaking for the people in this thread who have already (and at nauseum) explained their reasonings and their motives. I just summed it up and repeated it as you apparently read the OP and went straight to write-only mode on why the OP should be ignored and we should vote for Obama.

If the Edwards people want to vote for Obama, they are free to -- and many are. Here in this thread, we have chosen not to.

Getting it yet?

[kristopher]

212. There you go again

Seeking to speak for everyone else. I am an Edwards supporter, I am on this thread and, as far as I know, I have the right to express an opinion that differs from the OP.
Why are you characterizing my words as an attempt to "stir up strife"? I think I raised a valid point - Edwards dropped out before Feb. 5th. I think there is a reason he did that. I read the other comments and I didn't see it.

Why are you so intent on disparaging others instead of addressing the arguments on their merits. Edwards could have easily waited another week to wrap up his run, why didn't he?

Personally, I don't think it was to encourage people to throw away their vote.

Peace be with you.

[Yael]

215. You are an Edwards "supporter" who is voting for Obama

This is a thread for Edwards supporters who are voting for Edwards. I am speaking about the latter and wish the former (and their candidate) well, but they are not in the same group as the latter.

How is this confusing?

[desertflamingo]

223. if i vote for edwards...

i am NOT throwing away my vote. i will actually - FOR THE FIRST TIME IN, ummm... FOREVER - be voting FOR someone instead of against someone else. what is so damned difficult for naysayers to understand?

EDWARDS DEMOCRAT

[V4Edwards]

213. This may be the reason why . . .

It is to all DUers great credit that you all may not have figured out the probable reason that John suspended his campaign, because what I am about to write touches on the sobering facts of race in America and most of you are not thinking this way at all. This is my theory:

Yes, there was probably extreme pressure from the Democratic Party for him to halt his campaign. But that alone would not make John stop. He will only follow his own principles and will fight until the end.

Have you ever had a real moment of clarity when you knew, finally, exactly what you must do? I believe John had that moment of clarity once he looked at the demographics of the South Carolina primary vote.

A little background: I live in the deep south - born and raised here. John grew up in the South during the racially explosive 60's and early 70's. He saw the deep anguish up close and personal. He himself does not have a racist bone in his body. He always wanted to fight for the little guy - no matter the ethnicity.

The demographics out of South Carolina were truly shocking - Obama got the African American vote - okay that's not shocking. Clinton got a plurality of the female vote - again not surprising. Our John Edwards got the white male vote (according to the statistics) - but the sobering reality was that John got only 2% (or was it 1% or near 0%) of the black vote. Even Clinton got about 20%. This is John Edwards' native state. How emotionally crushing was that for him? Completely. Don't get me wrong. He wasn't crushed because he didn't win SC - he was crushed because he just was not reaching a certain segment of the population - the very people whom his policies would help the most by far.

And then the analysis in his mind begins. Who are the people who are voting for him? The vast majority are hardworking Americans who understood the issues that he was running on, but there is a very small minority who may have voted for him because he was the only "white male choice". He does not want this to be. He does not want to go into Super Tuesday being the "white male choice" for racial and misogynist bigots - not when he is probably not going to receive more than 20% of the vote in any of the states. He also recognizes that sometimes a symbolic historic choice, such as Obama, may be what some people think our country needs. Or the choice for a woman president - well it may be time. He could not, in good conscience impede that in any way. He had to step aside to let history take its course.

Believe me, I am heartbroken over his decision. But I understand that it is what he absolutely HAD to do. For he is the one who knows the racial anguish first hand. He had to step aside to let the healing begin. It is quite simply the most unselfish, statesman-like act that he could do. I could not respect him more.

[kristopher]

214. That makes a great deal of sense.

[Yael]

216. I agree with you from A to Z on this and posted similar not long ago

John never wanted this to be about race or sex -- he always wanted this to be about the issues.

This was not the year for that -- and he knows that. There was a cite in the NYT about this after the fact, but those of us who have been supporting him know this because we know who he is and what he is about.

While Ron Paul has the White Nationalist and NeoNazi vote summed up, you would never know that from the M$M and even Obama himself.

Recall the SC debate (near the end?). Obama made the comment that this is an historic election because we have a woman, an african american..... and John.

Then you have Larry O'Donnell who bloviated all over HuffPo that Edwards is the White Guy holding the Black Man back.

You HAVE to know that every bit of this hit John to the core of his soul. This isn't what he wanted -- and this was reflected in his 'suspension' speech when he said that he had been talking to Hillary and Barack "for days" to gain their "specific commitment" on maintaining his message.

My comment just after SC was something like "He never had a chance. This election was never about the issues (as can be seen by people's reactions to his debate performances), it has ALWAYS been about the woman and the african american and anyone standing in the way of that has lost before they had a chance".

I am right with you -- and I am right with John on this. It is his message that I am supporting with my primary vote and the message I am sending with my lone vote is that the other two just don't stack up. I could care less what color they are or what plumbing they have. The M$M will skew it to be a white/black or man/female thing, but I can't worry about those asshats any longer. His message is getting lost and it is too important. Maybe I am just more evolved than my fellow citizens, but I don't see race or gender. There is much healing to be done -- and I firmly believe that Barack's strong showing in Iowa went a LONG way towards that.

Oh, and I was raised and graduated college in the deep south -- so yes, when I say I understand and agree -- I am coming from the same background.

Right man, wrong time.

I am hoping against hope that he finds a cause (Habitat for Humanity from Jimmy?) like Al took the helm of Climate Change. I would be honored to support him in whatever effort he decides is worthy -- because make no mistake, if John and Elizabeth are behind it, their hearts are in it and they WILL make it work.

Thanks for your thoughts, sorry to be so verbose.

Great weekend to ya!

:toast:

[V4Edwards]

228. You are so right, Yael

Hey Yael

I have read so many of your insightful comments. I have been reading DU every day for the past year - but as you can see I don't post much! I only post when I have something that I feel really needs to be said.

And I agree completely with you.

Just as Al Gore has become a world figure for his devotion to his cause of saving the planet, I believe that it is very possible that John Edwards will become a revered world figure for his dedication to the eradication of poverty - the word "humanitarian" comes to mind. So I guess we can all be comforted that his message will live on. I truly believe that he will do great things.

I also believe that he will continue to fight the staggering corruption that exists in our political system. He has influenced the democratic party this election year more than could have been imagined. And he will be a force to be reckoned with at the Democratic Convention. He will not be there in the divisive role of "kingmaker", but will be powerful in helping to shape the Democratic platform - and I know he will give a triumphant speech in support of the Democratic nominee.

It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.

[Yael]

229. Yes -- yes it sure will

You make me blush. :blush:

If he says "this is the cause, sign up at <link> to volunteer", I am on it.

He won me over and whatever his cause -- I am behind him.

Have a good weekend -- and don't be a stranger, k? Lets hear your voice. That is what this is all about.

:pals:

[DianaForRussFeingold]

226. Hi Yael,

:hi: If I asked a question about Kucinich,Gravel,and Biden from their supporters I get an answer, and a very thorough one, at that...
That's Not so with Obama fans! Their candidate is just different from Hillary. :crazy:

I'm making my choice and it's NOT an American idol or the status quo!
I'm voting for John Edwards, anyway!

Someone mentioned how similar, to Kucinich and Edwards, Senator Wellstone was....

I watched this video on Youtube and I totally agree!
Twenty Minutes into the video 'former Illinois senator Paul Simon remembers Democratic Senator Paul Wellstone of Minnesota, who died in a plane crash on the campaign trail,
-- followed by an excerpt of Charlie's 2001 interview with Senator Wellstone." Charlie Rose: October 25, 2002
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OnwmZJ_Ud8 :pals:

[Yael]

231. Diana!!

Bless you -- what a wonderful tribute to the Senator. The Democrat from "the Democratic wing of the Democratic party". :patriot:

I did have to laugh at Jesse Ventura in the wrestling jacket addressing the state. :rofl: Gotta love him!

The first few minutes made my spine curl :scared: (you gotta put a warning on this stuff, sister!!) But good thing that you can FF after it buffers. It it was all worth it at the 20 minute mark on!

He was such a patriot. My heart aches. :cry:

Thanks for your continued support of Senator Edwards! We are kicking off a no-profit cafepress.com deal where anyone can send in any photo or design and create their own personalized "Edwards Democrat" items to share. Give us a shout in the "I am an Edwards Democrat" thread in the Edwards forum and submit designs, ideas, themes - we are a big tent!!!

:hug:

[Kazak]

227. Self-serving question,...

would Edwards doing well from a suspended campaign further increase the chances of a brokered convention?

[Political Heretic]

234. The campaign has ended. It's suspended so he can pay his staff...

...while they make the transition. It's just a formality.

"It's time for me to step aside so that history can blaze its path." - Edwards. Is he a liar?

I supported edwards since the beginning. But he has dropped out, and so I've looked on to the remaining two candidates and made a decision.