Ahem - I have an announcement (if anyone cares) - Making the switch

[LeftCoast]

I'm switching my support to Obama.

It pains me to do this. I like both candidates, but have favored Clinton for various reasons up till now. I still like Hillary. I still think she's a good Dem, but I have always viewed myself as one of the 'reality-based' liberals. After really going over all the numbers I simply see no way for Clinton to win the nomination.

After today, I can see that she has clearly moved into a negative campaign mode. I'm not as bent out of shape by that as many, but there is no point in it since she can't win. All it does is hurt the party and I don't want to see that happen.

You won't see any rw bs from me about Clinton and I'm still going to call people on it if I see it, but for what it's worth I'm 'officially' now on Team Obama. We need to wrap this up and get down to the business of making the republicans a permanent minority party again.

I'd also like to take this opportunity to extend my hand to some of my fellow Clintonistas to come on over and make the switch too. I think it is time, but I won't blame you if you can't bring yourself to do it just yet.

Which brings me to my final point. To those Obama supporters who have been particularly...let's just say hyper-partisan, just a suggestion. If you tone down the hate-rhetoric a bit and stick to issues such as delegate math you will make it easier for us to make the switch. As they say, you catch more flies with honey...

Thanks for hearing me out!

[LadyVT]

1. hahahaha you haven't been reading the Obama news, clearly!

[rucky]

86. Yes, we're all laughing our asses off...

watching both candidates killing our chances of winning.

[Hutzpa]

167. BOTH???

There is only one candidate doing that and thats Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Lets make that clear....

[Tarc]

193. Obama's shit smells just as much as anyone else's, I'm afraid

Hate to break it to ya, but he really can't walk on water, either.

[RUMMYisFROSTED]

230. All turd-sniffing aside...

...please give me a link to water-walking.

Sounds interesting..

[greyghost]

295. Amen

[youngharry]

198. OBAMA NEWS

Well the news is very favorable to Obama.

1)They just finished the count in California and Obama picked up 6 more delegates.

2)Texas is now reporting Texas and Obama won more delegates there than Hillary.

3) Canada is reversing its story on the NAFTA FLAP. It was HILLARY'S PERSON WHO SAID NOT TO PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT SHE IS SAYING IN THE CAMPAIGN REGRADING NAFTA AND CANADA.

MORE TO COME.

[man4allcats]

302. Re: "Texas is now reporting Texas and Obama won more

delegates there than Hillary."


Actually, Texas is not saying that at all at this time. Check it out here.

Moral: It pays to do one's homework. Doing so spares one the unpleasant task of having to extract one's foot from one's mouth.

[youngharry]

313. Texas count

No, sorry Texas is reporting that Obama will come away with 3 more delegates, than Hilliary.

Also, in the California count, Obama comes away with 8 more Delegates than previously reported. He got a plus 4, but Hillary lost 4, so the swing is +8 for Obama.

THERE IS NO WAY SHE CAN WIN. THE NUMBERS SIMPLE ARE NOT THERE. THE THING SHE CAN DO AND IS DOING IS TO BEAT UP OBAMA WITH SMEAR TACTICS AND TRY TO DESTROY HIM. THE BOTTOM LINE IS THAT SHE DOES NOT WANT OBAMA TO WIN AS SHE WOULD HAVE TO WAIT 8 MORE YEARS AND THEN SHE WOULD BE TOO OLD.

IF MCCAIN WINS, SHE ONLY HAS TO WAIT 4 YEARS.

JUST FIGURE IT OUT, PLEASE!!!

[man4allcats]

315. Again, Texas is not, at this time, reporting

that Obama won. He may well win, but as the link I provided clearly states, that has not yet been determined. There's nothing to figure out. Just click the link and read. It's easy.

[anonymous171]

2. I've been trying to tone it down.

But Hillary's McCain endorsements are making it very VERY difficult for me at the moment.

[LeftCoast]

8. I understand that

I was pretty unhappy about that. It just seemed so pointless. :(

[youngharry]

235. Hillary and McCain

The proper perspective is that Hillary will do anything---ANYTHING-- to destroy Obama if she is not the Nominee. If Obama wins, Hillary will have to wait 8 years to run again and she will be too old. If McCain wins, she will only have to wait 4 years.
Hillary will do anything to become President, including becoming a Republican.

ALL YOU LADY DEMOCRATS OVER 60, HOPEFULLY YOU CAN READ AND UNDERSTAND WHAT HILLARY IS DOING. SHE MUST BE STOPPED NOW BEFORE SHE DESTROYS THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY'S CHANCES THIS YEAR.

[BigBearJohn]

299. Let's not forget that John Kerry asked McCain to be his running mate in 2004

[judaspriestess]

307. damn so true

Thank you for bringing it back up.

IN ESSENCE KERRY ENDORSED McCAIN..... say it so...............

[ejpoeta]

308. don't let mccain hear you say that

he might lose his temper.

[Neshanic]

3. You gonna switch back when he goes negative? Otherwise get used to Prez McCain.

[LeftCoast]

9. Probably not. I can't see how the delegate count changes enough in HRC's favor.

[Mags]

254. I will never switch to BO.....

[gtar100]

271. Good for you! It's Hillary or McCain or nothing

We can't be compromised into believing our enemies rhetoric. It's important we know who the real enemies are, right? RIGHT?

[Spiffarino]

280. "Right" is right.

As Sinead O'Connor famously said, "Fight the real enemy!"

[Ken Burch]

275. Even if he gets nominated?

I hope you'll reconsider if that happens.

There's no difference between the two that's worth letting the Big Mac sneak in and keep the war going.

[Colobo]

103. Nesh, you should switch to Obama as well.

[the grey area]

180. Hillary started this disgusting filth...and with her the blame lies

[guruoo]

305. no she didn't. Obamagandists began co-opting the RW smear machine very earily on

[the grey area]

310. ...wow I cannot believe that you can possibly believe that yourself....

...if so...I pity you

[guruoo]

316. Which is it? Pity for being able to read, or remember?

I't's not what I believe, it's what I witnessed, talking point by talking point,
in some cases lifted virtually word for word straight from Rush, Rove, and FR.

[the grey area]

317. ..I was there as well

I witnessed everything as you have. At first Clinton was playing nice...then, after losing ground she turned nasty and embarassing to our party. I did not start off disliking her....her republican actions led me to these feelings of disgust and embarassment.

[guruoo]

319. And, like magic, all that happened before is conveniently forgotten

:rofl:

[ClayZ]

4. Yay!

Welcome to Camp Obama!




K and R

[LeftCoast]

11. Thanks ClayZ!

:hi:

[surfin]

5. Welcome, I went from Edwards to Obama

It at first hard but Hillary every day make it easier and easier. I really think there is something really wrong with Hillary and she needs help.

[LeftCoast]

12. I think she really really wants to win

Honestly, I think this is going to be resolved pretty quickly. Hope I'm right.

[SoCalDem]

69. Too bad she's willing to blow up the whole thing, in doing it..

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=132&topic_id=4917750

[question everything]

104. These are usually the people who do win

The ones who really really want to win.

Perhaps this was our problem with Gore and Kerry.

[Colobo]

111. Obama wants to win, and that's why he's not gonna make backroom deals

with someone who can't catch him in the amount of delegates.

[Liberal Gramma]

So you believe the end justifies the means?

I loathe dirty campaigning. "Really, really want to win" covers a lot of ground better left unexamined.

[tblue37]

206. Yeah, like the Republicans in 2000 & 2004.

They wanted to win in the worst way, and that is exactly how they won--in the worst way.

No matter how much she wants to win, there are some lines she really should not cross. Essentially endorsing McCain was just such a line.

[krkaufman]

17. I'm not sure it's just Hillary. I think she's just the standard-bearer for the DLC...

... and the DLC may be on the ropes if Hillary doesn't win the nomination. A *huge* showing this Fall by the Dems, for Obama and across-the-board, would be complete vindication for Howard Dean's 50 State Strategy and a repudiation of the DLC/Clinton approach. (If it wasn't already obvious.)

The DLC is going all-in for this nomination, and I'm not entirely sure that it's not beyond them to sabotage the Party chances in November, just so they can stay on life-support.

Just speculation, but the ultra-negative campaigning, and now the days of McCain near-endorsements, have me wondering what else could possibly be compelling the behavior.

[Mooney]

74. I've always believed this

If Obama gets the nomination and wins the election, then a DLC-ectomy will have been successfully performed on the Democratic party. I would be ecstatic about this, since the DLC are pretty much good for two things: triangulating and losing elections. For that reason alone, a mutiny is well-deserved.

[GOTV]

166. I think that's a good way to look at it, a DLC-ectomy

[krkaufman]

177. DLC-ectomy... exactly.

My concern is growing that a DLC victory for the nomination will also result in Howard Dean being removed as DNC chair. So rather than an *ectomy, the tumor will have metastisized.

[Kare]

200. I hope you're right

I would love to see the DLC go down with Hillary.

[WillYourVoteBCounted]

225. they're scared Obama will be 2 term pres, Hill will be 70+ by 2016

they're trying to throw the contest to McClame, so he can hold the spot
for 4 years (or less).

[krkaufman]

289. That, too, but it's more than just Hillary.

The DLC is fighting for its life.

</my opinion>

[LibertyorDeath]

292. I see you know your politics.

"she's just the standard-bearer for the DLC"

"The DLC is going all-in for this nomination, and I'm not entirely sure that it's not beyond them to sabotage the Party chances in November, just so they can stay on life-support."

[krkaufman]

314. I knew she was DLC all the way, but didn't realize the DLC's desperation ...

... until the most recent surge in "kitchen sink" negative campaigning, and effectively campaigning for the Republican candidate. ("~It's Hillary or no Dem, damnit!~")

[HCE SuiGeneris]

6. Welcome.

:hi:

[LeftCoast]

13. Thanks BushDespiser12!

:hi:

[doublethink]

7. Good for you LeftCoast !!

I agree it's time to move into the general election mode .... your reasoning makes sense. Peace. :)

[LeftCoast]

16. Yep! Time to put McCain out to pasture!

:hi:

[silverweb]

10. Hmmm...

You must be one of those "even tempered" people I keep hearing about... _kinda like Obama_ himself? :D

Glad to have you aboard. Like you, I want to see this primary business wrapped up as bloodlessly as possible, so we can regroup and focus on winning in November.

[LeftCoast]

19. I do try, though it can be hard in an environment like GDP to stay on track

:hi:

[rodeodance]

14. Obama started 6 weeks ago with his Repug Harry and Louise ad-today he has a vile ad.

[LeftCoast]

21. Hadn't heard that.

I don't want to see them go nuclear on each other. Particularly when it seems so pointless.

:hi:

[HCE SuiGeneris]

23. NIce message of support for a fellow Dem here on DU.

Would be considerate if you either showed some respect for their opinion, or have enough decency to post this tripe elsewhere. This is not the only thread currently available to you.

[rodeodance]

28. I was responding to the content of his post. NOT you. bye

[MojoMojoMojo]

55. Obama went negative a year ago, thats why hes winning

Hillary IWR is negative campaigning.
Obama no lobby Pac $ LIE> infers Hillary ONLY takes big business funding.
The truth is Obama takes as much Corporate funding and has as much corporate influence as Hillary.Plus he owes Rezco.

[earthlover]

59. The IWR was more than negative...it cost people lives and our country its economy

Are you saying to oppose the IWR is "negative campaigning"? What are candidates supposed to do, just shut up and let all the lies about Iraq go unanswered? That is not negative campaigning, it is drawing distinctions on the ISSUES. And IWR is one of the big ISSUES of the campaign, as well it should be.

Hillary's campaign has become more and more personally negative. Smear after smear. It started a couple of weeks before Iowa, and has just gotten worse. These past couple of weeks have been unreal.

Whodathunk a Democratic Presidential candidate would basically endorse the Republican nominee over her Democratic opponent? Has this EVER happened in our history....EVER? Aside from the disloyalty of it, the stupidity of it, and how it has hurt our Party....it is downright unusual. One of a kind. Rare. ODD.

[ACanadianLiberal]

237. Your tougue is quite slippery about the macain endousement thing.

Pointing out O's lack of experience is a smear?

You know what, I found you are the one who are doing smear business here. How comes the recognition of MaCain's experience becomes an endorsement for him?

Are you really an Obama supporter? Am I hearing something echoing somewhere like "reach out", "tired of partisan bitterness and bickering"? Is it from Obama?

Is that also true that the reach-out thing is only for indies and repubs, but not for Hillary?

Becareful, you are getting the smear business here.

[SoCalDem]

71. Fire with fire.. good for him..

If he does not fight back, they accuse him of being a wuss.. if he fights back, HRC will cry and accuse him of pickin' on her ..he might as well fight back

[dysfunctional press]

101. as utterly and completely vile as shrillary's endorsement of john mccain?

:shrug:

[MadBadger]

15. I'm a hyper-partisan, just not one of the lunatics

However Ive said it once and I'll say it again. There is an equal percentage of supporters for each candidate of ass holes. Its just that Obama supporters are four times that of Clinton supporters, so therefore we have four times more ass holes.

[LeftCoast]

24. LOL - I never thought of it that way

That makes some sense!

:hi:

[MadBadger]

42. I've been arguing this for a month now...it just makes sense

[PassingFair]

297. Yeah, but the lesser number of Clinton *ssholes make up for it by being HUGE hemmoroids.

Better keep some of THIS handy...

[eridani]

18. The race is still quite close

Given that the party is divided, Clinton supporters must get every chance of making their case as possible. Being fairly dealt (both sides) with will make party unity much easier.

[LeftCoast]

27. It is a very close race

But there doesn't seem to be any way for Clinton to 'win' either in delegate count or popular vote. She's just a little behind in both, but there's not enough time or delegates out there to change the scenario enough for her to pull it off.

[eridani]

46. I'm not talking math here; I'm talking psychology

People who strongly back her need to feel that they really have been heard. Dean and Kucinich delegates stayed strongly committed until the end in 2004, even though Dean dropped out and Kucinich didn't stand a mathematical chance. Only 20 of 63 Kucinich delegates cast a floor vote for Kerry (despite the fact that Dennis asked them to do it) just to stand up for the Kucinich platform one more time before buckling down to work for Kerry. In my area, the hardest workers were Dean and Kucinich people.

[KaptBunnyPants]

108. Dean and Kucinich didn't attempt to undermine the nominee.

Obama wasn't my first choice. He wasn't even my second. I've lined up behind him because he has secured the nomination, and I want a Democrat to win. I haven't liked the Clintons for a while now, as I view them to be to my right. But I always thought of them as being part of our team, and respected the common ground we share. I've never seen a primary loser go down like this. Absolutely savaging the winner, praising the Republican candidate, these are the actions of someone who cares more about themselves than they do about the political movement. That's something I just can't abide. Our personal feelings, ambitions, these mean nothing. The point is to get a better government because people's lives are depending on it. That's the only thing that matters in this contest.

[joeprogressive]

20. Thanks for your candor and your sensibility.

You are a credit to the Democratic party. Welcome aboard!!!

[LeftCoast]

29. Wow! Thanks.

That's very nice of you to say!

[JeffR]

22. You're a thoughtful person & unfailingly polite & generous

It's nice of you to have posted this. I'm frankly not wild about either of the "two left standing" but favor Obama, given the choice we now have.

You'll probably draw snark from some people over this, but you deserve nothing but praise for it.

[LeftCoast]

31. Thanks JeffR. This has been one wild ride so far, hasn't it?

I see both candidates as people. They have their flaws and weaknesses, but overall they're both great candidates (imo). One of the most exciting things about this cycle is that we had (at least) three excellent and viable candidates.

From the beginning of this election cycle I've felt that for the Dems we've been trying to find the best out of three great candidates while the repubs were trying to find the least worst alternative.

[JeffR]

43. Indeed. I remember thinking months ago that if the GOP had any sense

(which of course, they don't) they'd go with McCain. It seems that they stumbled into the choice, rather than deliberately choosing him.

As to our side, it was a strong field, and despite the drawbacks of both the remaining candidates, it's still a strong field. You're right, it has been wild, and looks to remain that way for a while. That seems to have a lot of DUers frothing at the mouth, but I for one am alright with it. So far, at least.

[LeftCoast]

48. Yeah, I probably won't be posting to GDP too much now

I just don't want to get involved in the pie-fight anymore...not when there doesn't seem to be a point to it.

[quakerboy]

25. welcome

Always good to see someone with a thoughtful approach. Sometimes its annoying when they come to a different conclusion. Doubly nice when they agree with you though. So.. hi. Have some of the Kool Aid. Its nice and cold, straight from the fridge.

[LeftCoast]

32. Hi quakerboy!

No Kool Aid for me. Thanks though! :)

[quakerboy]

47. well

at least take the cult robe. they are ever so soft and comfortable.

[Ichingcarpenter]

26. "more flies with honey"

'I'd also like to take this opportunity to extend my hand to some of my fellow Clintonistas to come on over'


you are the one to do that
with your nobel thread

He was far from my first, but the Clintons did their irreparable damage
that before I would have held my breath and voted for them, but
not anymore.

You are a better man than me Gunga din

[LeftCoast]

33. Thanks Ichingcarpenter!

:hi:

[goclark]

30. Great post and you have inspired me to

try my best to tone it down.

Now I will try harder to just donate $5 to Obama when ever I see a post that disturbs me. :hug:

[LeftCoast]

35. Now there's a good idea!

My partner and I are trying to work out who we're going to be donating to. Trying to figure out where our money would do the most good.

I think we'll be donating a chunk to the DNC to help with their 50-state strategy and I've got my eye on some down-ticket races that could turn into republican upsets. Still haven't decided on whether we should send money to Obama - only because he's raking in so much and our money might help more elsewhere.

[Jamastiene]

34. Really? Please look at this first.

I don't think you know ALL the facts if that's the decision you've made.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBGIQ7ZuuiU">The Dirty Truth About Obama

[LeftCoast]

36. OMG!

I can't believe you just rolled me!

LOL

:hug:

[Jamastiene]

49. Teeheehee

I couldn't resist. :evilgrin: :hug:

[HCE SuiGeneris]

38. Doh!

:blush:

[Jamastiene]

50. Brought to you by the Lounge Lizards with Bright Ideas Campaign.

:evilgrin:

:P

:hi:

[SoCalDem]

70. Yep. we know he fathered a black baby.. in fact TWO of 'em

:rofl:

[txaslftist]

135. Ach.

You rolled me, too!

[NoSheep]

286. Me Three.

[bling bling]

37. I admire that.

I've been feeling empathetic the last couple days for the Clinton supporters who are seeing the same thing as you but who hadn't switched over yet. There's a real us. vs. them climate here and the other side probably doesn't really look all that appealing to Clinton's supporters.

However, I think the anger of Obama's supporters is mainly towards Clinton herself and that particular anger seems justified to me. A lot of us feel very betrayed and insulted by her via her attacks on Obama. We believe in him and invest ourselves in him and she's telling the country McCain would be better. That's *really* messed up considering she really has no shot of winning this thing. Which I guess you pretty much already said that too. I guess I'm just still totally baffled and amazed. I really thought that Clinton would have been more of a party loyalist than this.

Anyway, my point was to just tell you how much I respect people who stay true to themselves and their principles. I don't think you'll be let down. Obama seems like a stand up guy to me. It's all I've heard from people who know him personally and who have known him for a long time.

[LeftCoast]

41. Thanks bling bling!

I appreciate the sentiment!

[grantcart]

39. I understand how difficult it is when you become so invested in a candidate

to switch.

For several days I have tried to limit myself to addressing two issues; the math and also the double standard that exists for Obama to have to go several extra miles.

thanks for your thoughts

[LeftCoast]

44. It can be tough

There are some really hard feelings in GDP at the moment. Even though I'm on the 'team' there are some people I don't ever want anything to do with. Gotta look at the bottom line though.

:hi:

[still_one]

40. I am an Obama supporter, but would have supported WHOEVER the Democratic nominee was

that is until a few days ago when Hillary said that she and mccain have extensive experience, while Obama is just a speech

That unfortunately did it for me. If she wins the nomination I will not vote for President

I am also not happy about my decision, but it is the ONLY tool I have to express my displeasure in effectively saying mccain is more qualified to be president than Obama

[LeftCoast]

45. As I said up-thread, I think this is going to be over quicker than people think.

I hope so anyway.

[akbacchus_BC]

54. Stick to your conscience. Hillary does not need your vote, sorry

not equality in the US. Look at Granthart post, what else does he need to win the nomination, but no! We all know what this is all about! How dare he got into the race, like how dare him. He just do not know his place! Hillary is the inevitable nominee, well screw her and the train she rode in with! Am back Senator Obama!

[still_one]

72. I will, and I have no doubt you are correct, the clinton's, could care less about my vote

[HarveyBrooks]

58. Sometimes...

the truth hurts.

[Huge Ego Sorry]

244. Hey Harvey

Where was that Tom Petty quote from? I'm a huge fan and somehow missed that one.

[HarveyBrooks]

267. I can't remember...

I think it was in Rolling Stone - I'll see if I can find it.

[HarveyBrooks]

269. Here ya go

www.esquire.com/features/what-ive-learned/ESQ0806WIL_134

The war in Iraq is shameful. Whether you're pro or con Bush, you've got to admit: The guy lied. And he continues to do so. I can't understand why he's just not run out on a rail. To send somebody's kids off and have them killed for no good reason -- he's going to have his day in hell for that. I wouldn't want that karma.

When you kill somebody's little sister with a missile, he's going to hate you forever. And the next generation will hate you even more.

[Window]

51. Welcome! Nice post.

:hi:

[LeftCoast]

52. Thanks Window! Much appreciated!

:hi:

[Window]

57. You're welcome. It was a pleasure.

Peace:thumbsup:

[akbacchus_BC]

53. Are you sure you switching to Senator Obama? Am not convinced...

but whatever floats your boat, go for it. Am still not convinced! No apologies needed!

[LeftCoast]

56. Yep, I'm switching

As I said earlier, I see no way for Clinton to win so for her to continue seems pointless and now that the campaign seems to have gone negative on both sides I see a real potential for harm to the party and for what?

I know how invested people are in their candidates though. It's tough to switch.

[Rydz777]

60. I'm switching back - to Gore.

This has been my odyssey this campaign season: I started with Gore; then I went to Edwards; on Super Tuesday I voted for Hillary. Now I'm convinced again that Al Gore is the only one who can keep our party from imploding - and who could (again) win the general election and bring some semblance of unity to this country. I had become convinced that there was no chance he would get in, but if the Party faces deadlock, he just might - I'm hoping.

[LeftCoast]

93. I think the party has to pick one of the two running...

Why have primaries and caucuses at all if the party just picks someone (no matter how great) who didn't even bother to enter the race.

[bicentennial_baby]

61. Hey friend...

Welcome :hi:

[LeftCoast]

94. Hey BB!

:hi:

Long time no see!

[bicentennial_baby]

245. Indeed!

Still love the pic :loveya:

[LeftCoast]

246. Oh you!

You're just trying to make me blush!

:blush:


LOL

[bicentennial_baby]

248. Success!!

:woohoo:

;)

[tekisui]

62. I believe you made a clear, rational decision.

It is good to have you aboard.

My concern is now that the RNC is outraising the DNC!!! All the Dem money is going to fight each other in this $600+ million dollar Primary. I don't see how it can sustain through 6 weeks of no votes. The country may get Democrat fatigue.

[LeftCoast]

96. Funny you mention that. I just contacted the DNC to check out donation limits

Turns out I can donate up to $28,500! I asked because I thought the limit might be something like $2000. Needless to say, if I donate it won't be the max. :blush:

[terrya]

63. Well...I'm ready to join you.

For exactly the reasons you stated. There is no way she can win the nomination at this point.

I'm now on Team Obama.

We need to get a Democrat in the White House this November. The stakes are too high. And at this point the best chance we have is Obama.

So, here I am. For what it's worth.

[bicentennial_baby]

85. Hey friend

Welcome :pals:

[terrya]

89. Hey

I've been doing some thinking recently...about what's best for the party and this election. And here I am.

:pals:

[bicentennial_baby]

90. And I'm very glad to welcome you!

And thank you for taking this seriously. :pals:

[terrya]

92. Thank you!

It's big picture time. That's what spurred my thinking.

And I appreciate the welcome. :-)

[LeftCoast]

98. Welcome to the team!

You're the first person I've said that to!

Anyway, it's always nice to be on the same team as you.

:hi:

[terrya]

105. Thank you.

And I feel the same about you. :-)

:hi:

[Binka]

144. Oh Terrya So Glad You Are Here

I just broke into a big smile when I saw your name! God Dayum! All the good looking smart guys are here!

[terrya]

183. Thanks, Binka!

And :blush: about your comment.

:-)

[SoFlaJet]

220. welcome Terry

this is about the democratic party needing to win in November and having one candidate endorse the republican over the dem frontrunner is going too far

[Binka]

64. Oh Hip Hip Yippee YEAH!

Obama was not my first or even second choice but I am here with him. Thank you for coming on over. I have always loved you so much LC. If you ever want to do some wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa drop me a PM I can hook you up but GOOD!:loveya:

[LeftCoast]

99. Hi Binka!

Wow! That is so nice of you to say!

Check your PM! :)

[blogslut]

65. Thank you for your post

Expressing your switch in this public setting could not have been easy. You are brave when you don't have to be brave.

Now, let's elect us a president! :)

[LeftCoast]

109. Hi blogslut!

Yeah, I was a bit nervous, but the responses here have been very positive.

:hi:

[SoCalDem]

66. I stayed uncommitted (here anyway) for a long time, but I too

"came out" and committed when BC popped off in SC.. I am not black, but I have enough black friends, and have hosted enough of my sons' black friends to understand about "code speak"..and BC was running off at the mouth with it.. That did it for me..

[LeftCoast]

112. Hi SoCalDem

One of the reasons I was in the Clinton camp was because I wanted a fighter. I have to admit, I don't like it when we throw elbows against our own team though.

:hi:

[SoCalDem]

252. That was the ONE and ONLY thing I approved of about Reagan

To undermine people on your own side, demeans EVERYONE in your party..

[LeftCoast]

256. Yep! I feel the same!

:thumbsup:

[psychopomp]

67. Welcome to the cult

of ignorant, rude, naive, trust-fund-having, deluded Obamanations!

I have been saying for more than a month that we are falling into the old "divide and conquer" trap that has been laid out for us. I try to be civil in my posts and never refer to either candidate as anything other than Sen. Clinton or Sen. Obama. (A couple of times I have skipped using the title of Senator for either candidate when trying to be brief.)

I call supporters of either candidate "supporters."

Agreed that you catch more flies with honey.

:toast:

[LeftCoast]

116. HI psychopomp!

I think every one of us who can be polite (even where we disagree) and argue substantively makes it easier for the other side to make this decision. It's really hard to join another team when they're throwing poo on you. :)

:toast:

[TwilightGardener]

68. Welcome.

[LeftCoast]

117. Hi wienerdoggie!

:hi:

[Adelante]

73. Welcome over

:)

[LeftCoast]

118. Thanks WesDem!

:hi:

[powergirl]

75. You want a Democratic president not just a Democratic nominee

Thank you Left Coast for your post and your sage advice. I am a Texan and I am an Obama supporter and have maintained throughout all of my posts that I will vote for whoever the Democratic nominee is. I am also a woman (I'm a divorce attorney) so I am getting a lot of crap from my fellow females for not support Clinton. That since I am a "professional woman" I should support her, etc.

I support Obama because he is our best hope of having a Democratic PRESIDENT. I can't take 8 more years of right wing oppression. The Supreme Court is in a very precarious position and will be 100% neocon if we can't get a Democratic president. The math is what it is. The rules are what they are. And, unfortunately, Sen. Clinton, is a polarizing force among the Freeps. The Freeps will show in force to vote for McCain if she is the nominee. I hate it that she is getting this treatment. But Obama, doesn't piss them off as much. The Freeps will attack him, for sure. But they are more likely to stay home and not vote.

More than anything, I want a Democratic President. I don't want to lose again.

[LeftCoast]

120. Hi powergirl!

I agree so much. I also want a Democratic pres. Trying not to be overconfident, but I think we've got it this year! YAY!

:hi:

[democrattotheend]

76. Yay! Welcome to the cult!

[LeftCoast]

121. Thanks democrattotheend!

:hi:

[shadowknows69]

77. Cool, welcome to the team Leftcoast!!

I'm a former Kucinich/Edwards refugee but Obama inspires me. This country needs a leader and a manager and I think Obama is the only one who will give us both. This country won't be led to greatness by figures from our past. We need a fresh face and voice in the White House.

[LeftCoast]

123. Thanks much shadowknows69!

It's almost scary to think about next year. I really think we are going to make gains in the House and Senate as well as capture the Presidency! Change is coming like a freight train!

:hi:

[angie_love]

78. welcome! and thank you!

[LeftCoast]

126. Thanks angie_love!

Great user name! :)

[angie_love]

174. Thanks! and great pic!

[mckeown1128]

79. Welcome to Club Obama!!!

I hope you like your stay. :grouphug:

[LeftCoast]

127. Is that anything like Club Med?

I could use a Pina Colada! :)

Thanks for the welcome! :hi:

[BigDDem]

80. Welcome to Camp "Monster"

[LeftCoast]

128. Hey BigD

Yeah, it's getting kinda dirty. :(

[mrreowwr_kittty]

81. I see your point, and I know I've been guilty of being antagonistic.

However, quite honestly, there are some Clinton supporters on here whom I not only have no interest in extending a hand to, but I eagerly await the day Obama clinches the nomination so that will say something stupid and get the tombstoning they so richly deserve.

[LeftCoast]

130. Hi thecatburgler

I'm firmly of the opinion that there are a number of trolls working the field on both sides. The good thing is they'll probably move on after the opporunity to sow dissension in the Democratic ranks fades.

:hi:

[Barack_America]

82. That took courage. Thanks.

And, for my part, I'll try to play nice. But please forgive me if I lose it from time-to-time, particularly concerning the negative tactics. Some of the stuff we've seen is completely out-of-bounds for a Dem, and it really makes me angry.

[LeftCoast]

133. Thank you Kristi1696

I had to take a little time-out the other day. Found I was getting much too cranky and starting to take all the negative stuff a bit personal. Bottom line though...we gotta get a Dem in the WH.

[stillrockin]

83. Thanks for your insight. And welcome.

[LeftCoast]

134. Thanks stillrockin!

:hi:

[scheming daemons]

84. K&R

[LeftCoast]

136. Thanks for the K&R!

:hi:

[Justitia]

87. Thanks for thinking it through. I've been hopping mad the last few days but it's because of

the damage to the Party that I think the Clintons are willing to do to win.

I've been furious that they are willing to savage other good Dems and kill Our Party to further their ambitions.

It's very, very painful because I've always been an UberClinton supporter and it's like finding out all those terrible things you heard about your friend (yet didn't want to believe) are true.

What an enormous disappointment.

I'm also always a realist and I know w/every fiber of my being that only Obama could beat McCain in November.
She'd never be able to realistically win against the republican because of rabid RW hate of all things Clinton.

I just hope the Clinton Machine stops this destructive steamroller before we lose the Congress to the RW for another decade.

Thanks again for having such a measured, logical approach - especially now when so many of us are losing our cool because so much is at stake.

:toast:

[LeftCoast]

143. Thanks for the welcome

I don't care for negative campaigning, but I can understand it usually. The thing that bugs me about the negativity now is that it seems so pointless and the costs (potential or otherwise) are pretty high. It just doesn't make sense to me.

I may be wrong, but I think this may resolve itself much more quickly than people think. I was speaking to a higher-up in the DNC yesterday and they are hearing it. They're getting slammed with messages from party members (rank and file as well as elected officials) telling them to get this resolved and stop the negative campaigning. They aren't going to let this tear up the party (for no reason) if they can help it.

Thanks again for the welcome!

:hi:

[faithfulcitizen]

88. What a nice, civil post... thank you!

But as for me, I'm really, really pissed at Clinton's support (at a minimum) of McCain.

[LeftCoast]

145. Thank you for the welcome!

I really don't understand that line of attack from the Clinton campaign. It's incredibly tone-deaf and seems to be doing nothing but losing her voters.

[hogwyld]

91. Welcome to the future!

I was an Edwards supporter until he dropped out. I then contemplated long and hard, and switched over to Obama. I could have easily voted for Hillary if she would have been our nominee, but feel her attacks have dimmed my enthusiasm for her considerably. I just want this all to end so that we can all concentrate on the real enemy, McBush. So, if you're ever in Oregon, drop a pm, and we can hop in my limo to go get a latte...

:hi: :toast: :pals: :grouphug:

[LeftCoast]

148. Thanks hogwyld!

I want the primary over as well. Once it became clear that Clinton couldn't get a numeric lead I felt it was time to end the race.

I will definitely take you up on the Limo and the Latte if I'm ever in OR! After that I could really say I was a Limousine Liberal! LOL

[redqueen]

95. Welcome aboard!

:hi:

[LeftCoast]

150. Thanks redqueen!

:hi:

[jefferson_dem]

97. Thanks LeftCoast.

I respect your opinion.

Obama will make us proud.

[LeftCoast]

151. Hey! Thank you!

:hi:

[not_too_L8]

100. Thanks I agree about the name calling K&R n/t

[LeftCoast]

152. Thanks for the K&R!

:hi:

[washingdem]

102. LeftCoast: it's refreshing to see someone make a logical decision/argument here

Good for you, and welcome to team Obama!

[LeftCoast]

153. Thanks washingdem!

:hi:

[Phillycat]

106. Oh man, another one....

It's a shame. :-( That man has nothing to offer this country, I don't understand how so many people can fall for his empty words.

[americanstranger]

110. It's easy when the alternative is a slash and burn campaign.

Watch. There will be more. Hillary has crossed a bright line, and people see it for the desperate, disgusting tactic that it is.

- as

[Phillycat]

113. Since this is politics, I've had my big-girl pants on the whole campaign.

Campaigns get ugly. That's the way it is. I judge my candidate by a single criterion - who will do the best job and most closely adhere to my beliefs once in office? This country is in a serious mess, and I want someone with the clout and connections in DC to actually get something done. Obama is an empty suit. He has no juice.

[americanstranger]

125. Well, good for you and your big-girl pants.

But answer me this. It's a question I've been asking all morning, and no one has given an answer yet. Maybe you'll be the first.

Clinton supporters such as yourself have said often that their problem with Obama is that he's said he wants to reach across the aisle, and that he's admonished against 'demonizing' Republicans. To Clinton supporters like yourself, that is seemingly a very bad thing.

Yet your candidate, over the past two weeks, has repeatedly made positive statements about the GOP presidential nominee (let's leave the semantics about 'not endorsing' or 'making a valid comparison' at this point - taken at face value, Clinton's comments about McCrazy are, by definition, positive comments).

Why is it a sacrilege for Obama to talk about 'reaching across the aisle,' while Clinton has been doing exactly that for the past two weeks?

Let's see if you can leave out the snark about 'big-girl pants' and 'empty suits' and give me a reasoned answer regarding what looks like a glaring disconnect. Thanks!

- as

[Phillycat]

137. I have never said my problem with Obama was his reaching across the aisle.

In fact, that ability is one of the most important reasons I'm voting for Hillary - she has bipartisan cooperation and that will be needed to get anything done. My problem with Obama is that he was a state senator a couple of years ago and he has no idea what he's doing in national politics, and it was arrogant and stupid of him to run this year. He should have waited. And then the Donnie McClurken thing happened, and that really turned me off, because I don't think it's progressive to use gay people as sacrifical lambs to solidify your support with black baptists.

So I don't really get your point.

[americanstranger]

Thanks for the non-snarky answer. I appreciate it.

But (you might have seen this coming) I'll have to respectfully disagree.

I see the 'lack of experience' meme as sort of a red herring. That same argument could have been made for presidents from Abe Lincoln (he came from being a state senator, didn't he?) to Bill Clinton (granted, his scope of experience was probably wider than Obama's by virtue of being a governor, but even Bill's experience at the time of his nomination wouldn't fall within the strict foreign policy criteria that Hillary is stressing in this election).

As for the McClurkin thing, I think that Obama realized the measure of the mistake that he made and has attempted to make amends. Whether the GBLT community accepts it or not is, of course, another matter, and that I don't begrudge anyone if they hold that against him, because at face value it was a pretty epic blunder.

But the larger question about the 'experience' argument - that no one is asking, and it really surprises me - is why is McCain's experience being touted at all? He's flip-flopped on the big issues - his own trademark, defining issues - like torture and campaign reform, he's supported (and promises to continue to support) Bush's policies, which anyone with two brain cells to rub together will admit have been unmitigated, miserable failures.

Why even give his 'experience' any cred at all, since it looks as though all that experience hasn't earned him a dime's worth of judgment? I really don't understand the point of giving him credit for experience when the result all down the line has been bad policy. Policy that we want to stop.

Again, thanks for engaging me without barking. It's a rare pleasure here nowadays. :)

- as

[Phillycat]

172. I think it was a mis-step on Hillary's campaign's part to make that statement.

And let's be clear, it was one statement we're talking about here. I understand why they did it - they were trying to draw distinctions between who should be running for president and who shouldn't - who has a national presence on the political stage and who doesn't, etc. I think it was a tactical error though - for the reasons you state; it's going to come back to bite her later. However, the fact remains that McCain has been a notable figure in Republican politics for quite a while, moderates like him, and it was only a matter of time before he ran. So, you know.

[americanstranger]

181. Thank you again.

I have tried to be as honest regarding these issues with you as I could, and I appreciate your honesty in return.

- as

[Phillycat]

189. Heh, not a problem.

I'll be polite to anyone who is polite to me. :shrug: Unfortunately, that's not the general rule around these parts during primary season...

[Colobo]

131. Obama will get things done. Hillary is more of the same.

[Phillycat]

141. He doesn't have any idea how to get things done.

She does. That's why I'm voting for her.

[NorthernSpy]

147. Hillary is only now opening offices in states Obama has had organized for months...

What were you saying about getting things done?

[Phillycat]

149. Both Obama and Hillary opened their Philly offices last week.

I know, I live here. So I really don't know what you're talking about.

[TwilightGardener]

169. He's already gotten things done, in the Illinois Senate and in the US Senate.

[woolldog]

204. The Obama I know

Those of us who have long known Obama are impressed and not a little amazed by his rhetorical skills. Who could have expected that our colleague, a teacher of law, is also able to inspire large crowds?

The Obama we know is no rhetorician; he shines not because he can move people, but because of his problem-solving abilities, his creativity and his attention to detail.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/cass-r-sunstein/the-obama-i-know_b_90034.html

[LeftCoast]

154. Sorry janesez

I still like all our candidates. I would have been happy with Edwards, Clinton or Obama. This is mostly about the math and holding the party together so we can put the republican party into permanent minority status. Well, that or at least another 40 years. :)

[americanstranger]

107. You're not the only one.

Steve Soto from The Left Coaster - a decidedly pro-Hillary blog - has apparently had enough as well.

Lastly, it's time for me to step out of the sh*tstorm and take a shower to wash off the slime and disappointment. I’ve had enough of the Clinton fluffing of McCain, and I’m done with her. Frankly I’ve looked foolish trying to defend her and her campaign’s burn-the-house-down-to-get-the-nomination strategy, and I’m tired of seeing this message and these tactics. Politics at this level is not softball, but as I have said before, being an arsonist does not recommend one for the party’s nomination.

http://www.theleftcoaster.com/archives/012095.php

I expect that further backlash is on the way. Thanks for making an honest appraisal of where the Democratic primary stands, and the harm being done to the party by someone who claims to be one of its own.

- as

[LeftCoast]

156. That's interesting!

I hadn't heard that. Some guy here on DU was absolutely convinced that I was Steve Soto because of the username. I don't suppose this will help to convince him that I'm not. LOL

[NoBushSpokenHere]

114. Welcome Aboard and thank you for the kind advice. nt

[LeftCoast]

157. Thanks NoBushSpokenHere!

:hi:

[Coexist]

115. .

:toast:

I have been trying to stick to issues, but after last week, I find myself going for the jugular. I am sorry if I offended you at all.

[LeftCoast]

158. If you did...

it wasn't bad enough for me to remember so it's all water under the bridge.

:toast:

[jlake]

I am sorry that you have fallen for the despair propaganda from the Obama supporters

It is clear that Hillary CAN mathematically win the PLEDGED delegates if she has our support and exceeds expectations the upcoming states... and HER good states are coming up.
PA, WV, KY will be HUGE Hillary wins.... and Obama will NOT win any more landslides against her.
You really should re-consider switching your support based on who can win..... and btw, Obama is running a massively negative campaign... you know "monster"....

[txaslftist]

139. And Hillary didn't just endorse McCain over Obama?

Five times?

Nice play, Hill. I usually vote straight Democratic ticket in the General. If she's on the ballot, forget it.

[jlake]

146. No, she did not. She pointed out that Obama has no experience and is a dangerous gamble.

[txaslftist]

155. She could have done that without mentioning McCain, and favorably.

When she loses her bid for the nomination, who is she going to endorse, Obama or McCain? Because I honestly don't know.

I can tell you who is going to re-run her comments again and again and call it an endorsement, and her saying Obama isn't qualified to be commander in chief is going to be replayed again and again and again on Right Wing Radio and FOX News for FREE. If Obama is our nominee, she has probably cost him two or three states over the past week.

And if that's the margin come November, she'll be the Ralph Nader of 2008.

[LeftCoast]

161. I know you passionately support Clinton

I appreciate that. I know you believe she can win, but I honestly see no way it can happen.

:shrug:

[CitizenRob]

119. WHY DO YOU HATE WOMEN!1!!!11!!

lol

[LeftCoast]

159. Elevens!

:)

[babylonsister]

122. Welcome, LeftCoast!

I missed your post this a.m., but am glad you're here! :toast:

[LeftCoast]

162. Thanks babylonsister!

:hi:

[Colobo]

124. Welcome aboard, LeftCoast. It's an honor to have you here.

[LeftCoast]

163. Very kind of you to say!

Thank you very much!

[NYDem Observer]

129. This Newbie Welcomes You

[LeftCoast]

164. Thank you! And welcome to DU!

:toast:

[4_Legs_Good]

132. Glad to have you on board!

I have nothing against Senator Clinton really, I just don't think she's what the country needs right now.

Good to have you with us!

David

[LeftCoast]

165. Thanks 4_Legs_Good!

:hi:

[Maven]

138. So basically you're just getting on the bandwagon.

What a shallow reason to switch candidates, especially since you've clearly been misled by Team Obama about him "winning" the nomination. No one has won anything yet, and this is most likely going to the convention.

[swishyfeet]

184. Did you even listen to what LC said?

You embody EXACTLY the snipey politics some of us would like to avoid in the Democratic primaries because they only play into McCain's hands.
Misled about Obama winning? Wake up! Hillary's chances of winning are directly tied to the number of lawyers she chooses to bring into the game.

I like both candidates, but I thought from the very beginning that Hillary is to the national contest what gay bashing measures are at the local level everywhere... just a way to fire up the right. Call me shallow all you want, but reality is a bitch. GOBAMA.

[Maven]

187. An Obama follower talking to me about sniping.

What a fuckin laugh.

Look at your own post, genius.

[thevoiceofreason]

140. Welcome

We're glad you are here.

[LeftCoast]

168. Thanks for the welcome!

:hi:

[eissa]

142. YAY LeftCoast!

:hi: welcome aboard! I don't think I've been one of those "hyper-partisan" types. I've said repeatedly that I liked both candidates, just one more than the other. However, this past week has been a little tough, particularly Hillary's praise of McCain.....but I'm trying really hard to bite my tongue and remain civil. REALLY hard.

[LeftCoast]

170. Thanks for the welcome!

And thanks for trying to stay above the fray. Maybe between us we can change the tone here a little.

:hi:

[thewiseguy]

160. Welcome dude

[LeftCoast]

171. Thank you! Welcome to DU!

:toast:

[zulchzulu]

173. Thanks for sharing

I'm happy you made your choice.

Personally, I hope you don't find me to be "hyper-partisan" for Obama. I used to just think Obama was a better candidate for this time and place, but after Hillary Clinton's recent endorsement of McCain and her absolute distortions on Obama's record reducing it to "a speech", I can't let such disloyalty to the Democratic Party go unanswered.

PM me and I'll send you some Obama merch.

[LeftCoast]

178. Thank zulchzulu!

It is unfortunate how negative things have gotten. :(

[Armstead]

175. Kudos. It takes a big person to make a change in this environment.

It's like so many of us are locked in our respective corners that saying we have changed our mind would seem like a personal defeat.

So your coll-headed assessment, and willingness to change your mind publicly is to be commended, regardless of which candidates are involved in your choice.

I'm more of a lukewarm, by-default supporter of Obama (Edwards was my choice) but I probably do come across as a hyper-partisan these days, because I am sooooooo angry at the way the Clinton campaign is conducting itself. So I'll admit that my own posts have reflected that anger....which I should control better.

[LeftCoast]

182. Thanks Armstead

I try really hard to be level-headed. I don't always succeed but I do try.

:hi:

[TransitJohn]

176. Totally respect you

and your thoughtful post and you decision. But one analogy/question. Since I live in Wyoming and my State's 3 Electoral votes will always go GOP, should I vote GOP in the GE?

[LeftCoast]

185. Hi TransitJohn

Hmm...I'm not sure I completely see the analogy since we're talking about a primary/caucus race rather than the GE. For me the choice is between two candidates that I like, one of whom seems to have locked up the nomination as much as is possible.

[TransitJohn]

191. Hi LeftCoast

I know, I was fishing for something to convey that I see a switching of sides to be on the winning team. I know your decision is way more than that, though, and was well though out. I just hope we get this blood bath behind us soon and get our Party ducks lined out, and go about kicking some McLame ass. Talk to you soon.

[the grey area]

179. Welcome...

I understand your contention and welcome you. Now you will not have to defend a campaign playing filthy politics and embarassing the democratic party.

[LeftCoast]

188. Welcome to DU!

:hi:

[the grey area]

311. Tanks!!

[yardwork]

186. Welcome, LeftCoast! I made the switch about a week ago.

:hi:

[LeftCoast]

190. Hi yardwork!

This sure has been a crazy race!

:hi:

[Catherina]

192. Welcome

And thank you. A lot of people on the Left who wouldn't normally consider voting for a Democrat are crossing over to help America get on a new path. Obama's instersection platform isn't that different from Clinton's but the direction it's facing will get this country started on a better path.

Thanks for proving our faith that we can work together for a change.

[LeftCoast]

194. Thanks Catherina

Welcome to DU, btw!

:toast:

[Catherina]

207. Thanks for the welcome LeftCoast

I'm glad so many people are getting together to make a difference. I never thought I'd see this day :toast:

[Maineman]

195. Hillary is better than Bush, but

not by a particularly wide margin.

[LeftCoast]

199. Hi Maineman

:hi:

[DevonRex]

196. Welcome! And...

I have really been making an effort to not react emotionally to all the rhetoric of hte last couple of weeks so that I don't go totally negative on Hillary. But it's been very, very difficult I have to say.

The delegate count is what I keep coming back to in order to keep myself in check. Otherwise I probably would have made some rather inflaming comments here at DU. I'm glad that that same delegate count has helped you switch to Team Obama!

My son and I shared the precinct captain role for Obama here in Highlands Ranch, Colorado and it was an amazing experience. We had 5 times the normal turnout for our precinct and went 66%-33% for Obama. We allowed discussion in our precinct prior to the official vote. All the Hillary supporters had their say. None of the Obama supporters spoke up because it was obvious we outnumbered them by a huge amount. But we listened respectfully. The only comment at the caucus that upset me was when one lady said that Hillary should win because men had screwed the world up badly and that a woman would make it better. As I sat next to my son, who is a graduate student in International Relations at University of Denver and who had worked his heart out for the Obama campaign in hopes of bringing about positive change, it was all I could do not to respond harshly to that lady. But I didn't.

I guess my point is that I appreciate your calling it like you see it. Emotional stuff can come from all sides but we can force ourselves to think before we speak, or write.

Welcome to Team Obama. You're an amazingly wonderful addition.
Jennifer Z. in Colorado.

[LeftCoast]

201. Thanks so much JenniferZ!

I love hearing about people getting involved in the process! The turn-out story is really one of the under-played issues of the campaign. The republicans are sweating bullets looking at our numbers. I hope I'm not being overconfident, but even with the pie-fight happening on our side, I think we are going to cream them in Nov.

Oh and welcome to DU!

:hi:

[Oilwellian]

197. Welcome Left Coast

You've always been a gentleman and for that deserve the utmost respect. I've switched from Gore to Edwards to Obama...most of us have had to deal with the loss of our choice in candidate but have come to realize it's not about us individually but us as a unified party. I believe you've made the right choice. Now let's beat McCain! :hug:

[LeftCoast]

202. Thanks much!

I've always love your username, btw! Very clever!

[Cha]

203. I know you hate me..

You were always pretty cool though..one of the very few hilary supporters I don't have on Ignore.

Thanks for making sense, LeftCoast.

[LeftCoast]

208. Trust me. I do not hate you!

We've disagreed in the past, sure, but no more than that.

Thanks for your kind words here!

:hi:

[Cha]

279. I don't know what made me

write that the way I did but I came home on break and your post really touched me..I know I get too emotional especially about his whole political juggernaut; so thanks for being kind and getting behind Obama..we need you!! :hi:

[JackORoses]

205. Thank you. You have proven yourself wise and a gentleman.

I hope your the other Hillary supporters can be as graceful.

[LeftCoast]

209. Thanks!

There are a few who've posted on this thread. I think more will come over soon as it becomes more clear to people what the outcome is going to be. Most of us here want the Democrat to win in Nov even if that person wasn't their 1st choice. I've never had my 1st choice make it all the way to the GE so I guess I'm a little more used to this dance. :)

[Laurab]

210. Kicking & Recommending

A "thinking" Hillary supporter is difficult to find around here, it seems. I know that I have changed from preferring Obama to just about hating Hillary, and it troubles me to feel that way. I just don't see how anyone can defend the things she's been doing lately.

Obama CAN win - and I hope you're right about this ending soon.

[LeftCoast]

212. Thanks Laurab!

One thing that helps me is to remember that DU is pretty unrepresentative of the real-world. I think the smears on both sides have been extremely unpleasant. It seems so difficult to have a reasoned discussion of the pluses and minuses of the candidates. Neither are perfect - they're human after all.

I hope I'm right about it wrapping up soon too!

:hi:

[AZBlue]

211. Your country thanks you!!!

:toast:

[LeftCoast]

213. And I thank you!

:toast:

[grace0418]

214. I didn't switch.

I wanted Gore to run, and have had my issues with all the other candidates along the way. But Hillary was the one candidate that I never considered to be my first choice.

Having said that, I have always maintained that I will vote for her if she is the nominee and I have always tried to refrain from joining in the mud-slinging going on around here. In fact, I've posted several times about how disgusted I am at all the negativity on DU and in GDP especially. I don't think it helps anyone but the Republicans.

However, I must say I'm finding it harder and harder to ignore the tactics of the Clinton campaign. NOT THAT OBAMA'S CAMPAIGN IS PERFECT (before the Clinton supporters start going off on me). Both sides are guilty of some problems. Both sides' supporters have said some awful, viscious, and untrue things. But more and more, Clinton's campaign is leaving a bad taste in my mouth.

I *want* to feel proud and happy that I will "win either way" with either the first female president or the first black president. I want to feel like either choice will beat McCain, be an excellent president, and will set this country back on the tracks. But it's harder and harder for me to believe that. And that's really, really heartbreaking to me. Believe me, I don't *want* to dislike Hillary Clinton, I don't want to feel like she would be barely an improvement over McCain. And if she ends up as president, I hope she proves me wrong. I will be the first to apologize if she does.

Adding: So I guess, long story short, I am by default part of Team Obama. And in that capacity I welcome you. :)

[LeftCoast]

217. Thanks for the welcome!

I really dislike the negative campaigning as well. The McCain comments really surprised me. I just can't see how they win her votes. She's really turning off Dems doing that. I don't like seeing the Obama campaign go negative either.

One of the few things I admired about Reagan was how he unified the republicans by drilling into them to never speak ill of another republican. I wish we could move a little closer to that ideal. Probably not going to happen though. Liberals don't herd nearly as well as republicans. :)

:hi:

[anigbrowl]

215. Thanks for the thoughtful explanation and good advice

I've tried, for the most part, to defend my candidate (Obama) and disagree with the Clinton supporters about facts and policies, rather than with personal attacks. Your post is a good reminder that intelligent persuasion, even when it takes time, is better than mud-slinging.

[LeftCoast]

218. Hey, thank you!

:hi:

[yellerpup]

216. Welcome, LeftCoast!

I made the switch, too. She is my Senator and I have written to her at least once a month since B***'s 2007 SOTU trying to convince her to vote against cluster bombs, torture, and the Kyl Amendment, and asking her to support Ned Lamont of CT instead campaigning for Joe Lieberman (among other topics). I get the same non-response form letter every time. She has voted as I asked her to do a couple of times, but has been very disappointing in her performance. I realize that she is entitled to her own opinion and her own judgement and must vote her own conscience. Her nastiness in advance of the Texas/Ohio/Rhode Island/Vermont primaries left me disheartened and disgusted. I'm glad you are supporting Senator Obama. I feel much better since I switched. :hi:

[LeftCoast]

219. Hi yellerpup!

Nice to hear from fellow switchers! I just want to say thanks for writing your Sen. I think citizen participation in our government is vital!

:hi:

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

221. A pragmatic, thoughtful post

I don't like either Clinton or Obama, but will vote for whoever gets the nod. I agree with you, however, that negative campaigning only hurts the Dems and helps the GOP. I want this over with now so we can focus on taking back the White House and obtaining large majorities in the House and Senate.

[LeftCoast]

223. My pie-in-the-sky dream is that we win a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate!

Probably won't happen, but it sure would be wonderful!

:hi:

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

236. I would urge all people

who are sick and tired of the battles at the top of the ticket spend time and money supporting progressive candidates for the House and Senate. They need that support NOW, and you can feel that you are doing something productive.

[LeftCoast]

239. Funny you mention that. I am lining up my donation list right now.

So far I'm going to give to Bill Foster (IL-14), Charlie Brown (CA-04) and Rick Noriega (TX-Sen). I might throw some change Jackie Spear's way as well, but she probably doesn't have any real competition and I'd like to see my money go where it can make a real difference.

:hi:

[Why Syzygy]

222. It's a trend! Thank you. Welcome. Great to see you. nt

[LeftCoast]

224. That it is!

Thanks for your welcome!

:hi:

[mudesi]

226. It's nice to see a rational Clinton supporter

I'm glad you're capable of doing basic arithmetic. Now can you help us convince the rest of them?

[LeftCoast]

228. Doing my best!

Keeping it rational and insult-free is the best way imo.

:hi:

[underpants]

227. Decaf?

oh no sorry you were talking about leader of the free world. My bad.

[LeftCoast]

229. I doubt whether my body would function w/out caffeine

LOL

[Major Hogwash]

231. Tone it down? I turned the speaker up to 11.

To get the "wall of noise" sound I want, ya know.
We're playing to the same people in the same garage.
But, what the heck, can't hear the others roar, ya know.

Got to get a new drummer again, though.

[LeftCoast]

233. Your last drummer didn't have a bizarre gardening accident by any chance did he?

:)

[PITBOS]

232. good post. I guess HRC is so divisive - but good advice.

[LeftCoast]

234. Thanks!

There seem to be passionate feelings on both sides. GDP seems to be in continual pie-fight mode at the moment.

[Straight Shooter]

238. You know what? Every time someone switches to Obama, no matter how reasoned their post ...

... it turns into a Hillary Hate thread within 2 or 3 posts. Asking people not to bash her on DU is an exercise in futility.

I wish you luck on your new journey. Sorry to see you go. :hi:

[LeftCoast]

241. Thanks Straight Shooter!

I don't care for the negativity either. :hi:

[NC_Nurse]

240. Welcome to Team Obama!

Glad to have you! :yourock:

[LeftCoast]

242. Thanks NC_Nurse!

Fellow RN here!

:hi:

[NC_Nurse]

243. Yeah, baby!

:hi:

[casus belli]

247. We love you again.

I'm kidding. ;)

Not about the love part, about the....oh nevermind. Thanks for a lucid post. I'm 100% with you on toning down the volume level for awhile. I think things are a little too heated at the moment for people to listen or think clearly.

[LeftCoast]

249. LOL! Thanks casus belli!

:hi:

[populistdriven]

250. You also catch more flies with MEAD!

:toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast: :toast:

[LeftCoast]

253. I've always wanted to try mead!

Hmm...I wonder if Trader Joe's carries any...

Mmmmm :)

[Ken Burch]

272. Well, if you're in California, you can probably find a Renaissance Fair that's selling it.

If you can handle the "Merrye Olde Englande" schtick.

Thanks again for coming over, btw.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

251. Welcome aboard! Was there one negative thing in particular that led to your switch?

[LeftCoast]

255. I don't like the negativity, but for me the decision was more about the math

I just can't see a path to victory for Clinton at this time, so the negative campaigning seems pointless and harmful. I don't want to see our candidate engage in a GDP style pie-fight.

[dailykoff]

257. Hey that's great!

I really think he's gonna take it, too!

[LeftCoast]

258. Thanks dailykoff!

:hi:

[elizm]

259. Welcome...We're HAPPY to have you!

:hi:

[LeftCoast]

262. Thanks for the warm welcome!

:hi:

[elizm]

298. Obama won't disappoint you....I promise you! :) nt

[libnnc]

260. It was Naomi Wolf's column that did it for me.

If this were a stable democracy, Clinton would be good enough.


We're at a critical level of "being in the shitter" right now.

A man of color with the middle name Hussein has a unique, personal understanding of how fucking important it is to uphold civil liberties and how vital it is to restore the god damned Constitution.

It's that simple.

[LeftCoast]

263. I haven't heard anything about her column

When did that come out?

[libnnc]

266. Here it is

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/naomi-wolf/why-barack-obama-got-my-v_b_88956.html

I also suggest you read her latest book The End of America

[LeftCoast]

268. Thanks for the link

That was a good article. Lots of interesting insight.

[RazBerryBeret]

261. Welcome, friend...

and well said, let's focus on the GE!

[LeftCoast]

264. Thanks Raz!

And a somewhat belated Welcome to DU!

:toast:

[randr]

265. Thank you!

Had Obama never appeared on the Political Horizon we would all be here supporting Hillary or possibly Edwards, who would have had a better shot.
Many Democrats were excited at the prospect of the first Female leader of our nation. Unfortunately she has come attached to excess baggage and at the same time a candidate has arrived with an eye to the future.
I am sure as the campaigning wages on many will reach the same conclusion you have. In the end we will have Obama as our president. I wish all the Hillary people well and hope they make the move in time to celebrate with all the Democrats who have united to save not only our nation but the entire world.

[LeftCoast]

270. You may be right

We've had a fantastic slate of candidates this time around. I sure hope we don't blow it by tearing ourselves up to get to the nomination though!

[Ken Burch]

273. Thank you for your brave decision.

You and I haven't seen eye to eye on some things, and I apologize now for my comments in other threads. I respect your passion and commitment.

[Yael]

274. I moved to Obama shortly after Edwards dropped

Welcome to the team! :hi:

[knixphan]

276. Love ya, LeftCoast!

And drinks are on me when we take the nomination!

Big O-Boater with lots of love for any former Hillsters (Being a former Kucinichite myself)

Remember, the O-man has MORE than a speech. He's got US.

Also, if you have an extra 25 bucks, donate!

Let's show the MSM that the more negative our opponents go, the more we give!

I'm donating right now.

Cheers!

[parkeradison]

277. Regarding "switching to Obama"

Now, that wasn't so hard was it? Obama welcomes everyone.

[Spiffarino]

278. Agreed.

I went for Obama after Edwards dropped out. Still, I was very positive about HRC until the McCain praise/Obama slight. That really pisses me off and I am no longer feeling good about her.

I won't go to the lengths some would. She's still a damn sight better than a Republican. But I am hard-pressed to WANT to give her my vote if she defies the math and wins the nom.

[David Zephyr]

281. Maybe we can still pull out a unity ticket.

My sister, who converted me to a Democrat as a teenager and who proudly voted for Hillary on Tuesday in Texas told me that having made her vote (her husband voted for Obama) she now wants Obama to be at the head of the ticket.

I've been very hard here lately on the Clintons because they need to face the math and do the right thing. I hope that Hillary can make the call.

If we put all the voters together who have voted in just the primaries for Barack and Hillary, we will sweep the White House and take a generational control of both houses in Congress and change our country that we love to one that we are truly proud of again.

Finally, I don't blame Hillary as much as I do Mark Penn, James Carville (and his wife who hates Obama) and Terry McAuliffe for keep pushing her to go against all the numbers. Maybe, just maybe Bill and Hillary can sit down together and see it's futile. Quitting is not in their bones. It will be very hard for them.

And I'll be shot for saying this, but perhaps it's not too late to get Obama and Hillary together. That would be historic.

I know it took a lot for you to post what you did. If I've ever said or posted anything unkind to you, please accept my apologies. Our common enemy is the GOP, not each other.

K&R!

[EmilyAnne]

282. Welcome! I waffled back and forth between Hillary and Barack for a while after Edwards dropped out.

For ten years, I've been looking forward to President Hillary Clinton. Over the last month, however, I had a big change of heart. It was very upsetting to some of my good friends so it was difficult to talk to them about it. Now, most of them have come to the same conclusion that you have...looking for a president, not just a nominee. The party has so much to lose the longer this goes on.

[AtomicKitten]

283. 100th rec !!! Welcome aboard.

[knixphan]

284. reports of defections are coming in to my station...

This negativity stuff, the Penn-Rovian stuff is going to backfire.

And Oprah hasn't even chimed in yet. :)

[hogwyld]

285. To Leftcoast from an Oregonian

on the left coast, I say welcome and congratulations on maintaining your principles.:patriot:

[AlinPA]

287. I have been reading your posts since 2003 and respect your views. I (and

my wife and daughter) switched last week. What turned us was the RI speech where she mocked and ridiculed him and his supporters. She is hurting the Democratic party now. It is too much to take. That means 3 votes in the PA primary.

[awaysidetraveler]

288. My hat's off to you, and welcome!

You put this in such a decent way, and it impresses me to no end after such a long and divisive race.

I hope you'll do more than just join, but also work to help shape the ideology of the candidacy yourself:
we do need to drop the hyper-partisan stuff, and your mentioning that was spot on.

Again, welcome!

[Kermitt Gribble]

290. Sorry to see you leave, LeftCoast,

but I completely understand. I was an Edwards supporter who didn't see much difference between Clinton and Obama. I favor Clinton slightly, but believe Obama wil be a great President if nominated.

[JerseygirlCT]

291. Welcome

I've been saying all along that we simply have to keep our eyes on the real goal, which is the WH. I still think Obama is the best get to get us there, and I agree with you that the Clinton campaign's nastiness only hurts the Democrats. I'm not willing to see us lose in November just so that she can secure the nomination now.

I think we all have to keep in mind that we simply must take the presidency. It's critical. And the really nasty attacks against fellow Democrats do not help that effort one bit.

[Johnny Potpie]

293. Congratulations

for seeing the light. Incidentally, I came from the Dennis Kucinich camp. It pained me to leave Mr. Kucinich. But it is apparent that Obama is our choice. No doubts about it. Hillary needs to go away and let Democracy work. I don't care if she thinks she's entitled to the nomination. We are choosing Obama. I welcome you. :pals:

[jgraz]

294. Tough call. I had to make the same one when Edwards dropped out

Luckily, Hillary has more than validated my choice. Welcome to the team. :hi:

[apocalypsehow]

296. Excellent - welcome!

n/t.

[pauldg0]

300. whoopee!!!

Hope it goes well for you!!!

[tammywammy]

301. It's tough to switch candidates

I've seen many a Biden, Kucinich, Edwards supporters on here struggle with choosing Clinton or Obama.

Overall, Obama will be the nominee and I think it'll be better for the party and for the nation when he gets to the White House.

I truly hope that this will be over soon. I had many people come up to me Wednesday disappointed that it wasn't decided Tuesday night. And these are people that aren't on DU or Kos and keeping up with ever little single political fact every second, but they want the party to be able to kick the shit outta McCain.

[terrya]

312. Yes, it is.

It is tough. Believe me, I wasn't jumping up and down with delight over this. I still personally like Hillary Clinton. But, well...I've decided that Obama would be the better candidate in November. And I weighed my decision as far away from this place as possible. Seriously, if you're having doubts about your candidate, get away from DU, read what's out there and decide for yourself.

[Blondiegrrl]

303. Welcome to the dark side! *grin*

[GMFORD]

304. You are so right.

This primary season is endless. Let's move on to beating the sh*t out of McCain! I was a Biden supporter and when he dropped out I switched to Obama. But if the tables were turned and Clinton had the numbers in her favor, I would say the same thing. Let's start eating McCain's lunch for a change.

[Johnny__Motown]

306. I care, and thanks

Welcome

[Breeze54]

309. Ahem - I have an announcement (if anyone cares) ....

I don't.

[roseBudd]

318. Welcome. Big pragmatist here, we finally have a candidate with charisma, foolish not to go for it

Unlikeability influences a lot of voters