Edwards for VP: Sign the petition, spread the word

[topdog08]

http://www.petitiononline.com/edwards

To: Senator John Kerry

In the New Hampshire primary, voters can write-in their Vice Presidential preference. This January, John Edwards received 16,641 votes for VP, compared to 7,636 for the next closest candidate. (http://www.sos.nh.gov/presprim2004/dvpressum.htm)

According to a February CBS News poll, a Democratic ticket that combined John Kerry for President and John Edwards for Vice President had more appeal than either candidate by themselves, and could give the two Democrats a solid victory over Bush and Cheney. In fact, registered voters would choose a Kerry-Edwards ticket over a Bush-Cheney ticket by 50% to 42%. The combination of the two Democrats gives them an edge among a number of voting groups that either candidate might otherwise lose on his own. (http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2004/02/09/politics/main598867.shtml)

In a March CNN-USA Today-Gallup poll, John Edwards was the choice of 30 percent of voters who are Democrats or lean Democratic. Almost a dozen prominent Democrats were mentioned by poll respondents, but the rest drew support in the low single digits. (http://www.guardian.co.uk/uslatest/story/0,1282,-3837586,00.html)

On the March 3rd episode of Crossfire on CNN, James Carville said, "We have just seen Senator Edwards' stunning performance to end his campaign for president. We're talking about the presidential campaign with Republican strategist Charlie Black and senior Kerry adviser, dear friend and brilliant media consultant, Michael Donilon, originally of Providence, Rhode Island. Mike, of course, last night, I said I thought that Senator Kerry should pick Senator Edwards as his running mate, as an Edwards veep supporter, whatever that means. There's two people I hope watch that performance today. And that is Senator Kerry and my good friend, Jim Johnson, the very competent man who was put in charge of his veep selection committee, because I, frankly, thought that was an awesome performance by my candidate for vice president, John Edwards."
(http://www.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0403/03/cf.00.html)

Michael Tomasky, executive editor of American Prospect Magazine, put it this way, "So I'd been thinking this thought over the past few days, and then last night I was chatting with some smart people who'd been thinking the same thing: John Kerry should put John Edwards on his ticket right now. The reasons are simple. Edwards has clearly earned the spot." (http://www.prospect.org/page.ww?section=root&name=ViewWeb&articleId=7236)

Obviously, we aren't the only ones saying it, but we the undersigned strongly urge the selection of Senator John Reid Edwards as Vice Presidential candidate. Senator Edwards will greatly strengthen the Democratic ticket, and we believe he is the best choice for the United States of America.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

Click here to sign or to email your friends.

[Crachet2004]

1. I think I would rather let John Kerry pick his own VP in his own time.

I like John Edwards, but he cannot even guarantee us his own state...what does he bring, other than his own ambition?

No, I will not sign this petition.

[Bombtrack]

4. Edwards isn't among my preference shortlist, but the argument you use

is not really cogent at all. "He cannot even garentee his own state." The only options that would garentee their homestate would be someone from a safe blue state. I don't believe that that Kerry/Edwards would win NC before they won almost every other swingstate, but Edwards would still be a compitent at worst vp choice. I am very much focused on the electoral college as well, but there are only a couple of choices would come very close to a clear garenteed boost in a signifigant amount of select electoral votes worth of a state or states.

[topdog08]

6. Did you even read the petition?

You asked what does he bring? I cleary documented his appeal to a wide range of voters, some of who John Kerry will not get. See the CBS poll.

I think Edwards would give Kerry a good chance in North Carolina, too. While you can't guarantee anything in an election, I think Edwards helps a great deal in a lot of the swing states, too. Both in the Midwest, South, and rural areas of the Northeast. New Hampshire, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania in particular. How's that for bringing something?

[Scoopie]

92. Not really

The vast majority of Southerners who voted for Edwards were neo-cons who didn't have anyone running against the Shrub in the Republican primary, so they hopped over to the Democratic primary to make mischief. They didn't want Kerry or Clark to win because both of them have military and foreign policy credentials and could stick that up Bush's arse; so, they voted for the least capable viable option: Edwards.
Don't think for a minute these same people will be voting for Edwards or any Democrat in the fall. It's all smoke and mirrors.

[citizen snips]

2. Done.

I will do anything to help johnny out.

[citizen snips]

12. My signature is 783.

if anybody is interested

[spooky3]

3. I signed on.

[be inspired]

5. Thanks for being proactive!

I came here today just to post a link to this very petition, but you beat me to it. Thanks!

I'd also like to suggest that people sign the other Kerry-Edwards petition at http://www.draftkerryedwards.com.

It just makes sense for the Democratic party to combine the abilities of our two most popular candidates. Kerry needs all the help he can get in this race, he needs a VP that people really like. In other words, he needs John Edwards!

[citizen snips]

7. Welcome to DU be inspired.

:hi:

[be inspired]

9. Thanks!

Thanks! Glad to be here. :hi:

[topdog08]

8. Keep on posting it, over the next few weeks

I have not had very much time for this stuff lately, so can use all the help I can get posting this, and the draft link, when you get a chance.

[be inspired]

10. Will do!

I will definitely keep posting. Although I have only joined this particular site very recently, I have been on the internet for literally hours every day in the past few weeks promoting John Edwards. He's the man!

[topdog08]

11. forgot to say thank you

if you're new here, you'll be suprised how quickly things scroll off and are lost. kicking the thread every day or so is probably a good idea.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

13. YES! - KERRY/EDWARDS!

Thank you for posting this message. I have signed both petitions and have certainly encouraged everyone I know to get out the word. There is so much excitement here in Kentucky about the possiblity of a Kerry/Edwards ticket. I agree that having our two top candidates on the ticket is a no brainer. They compliment each other so well. And, I know they will beat Bush/Cheney.

[citizen snips]

14. welcome to DU Kerry Edwards 2004.

:hi:

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

15. Thank you.

Thanks Mattman! A pleasure to be here!

[newyawker99]

23. Hi Kerry Edwards 2004!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast:

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

36. Thank you!

Thanks for the warm welcome newyawker99!

[Darkamber]

40. Welcome too...

Glad to see you here...:) See it's not too bad here. There are some of us Edwards supporters here....Cathyinwa

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

49. Glad to see you too

This is a great website. I just talked with someone who is a friend of an artist that I have long admired. It was really cool.

[newyawker99]

22. Hi be inspired!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast:

[be inspired]

45. Hi newyawker99!

I'm glad to be here. Thanks for making me feel welcome!

[Padraig18]

16. Done!

:D

[citizen snips]

20. Thanks for signing the petition Padraig!

:hi:

[be inspired]

17. 800 in three days

The petition at http://www.petitiononline.com/edwards has received about 800 signatures in just 3 days. :bounce:

Please tell your friends and family about this petition and link to it on any other forums you may belong to (if appropriate to the forum).

Thanks!

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

18. I am Inspired

I have worked for a lot of candidates in my lifetime. Each one of them I supported because their view on the issues was similar to my own. None of them, however, affected me on a gut level like John Edwards has done. It may sound corny but John Edwards really does inspire me.

Having campaigned for him and having met him and his wife personally I know in my gut that he is 100% genuine. I have never met another candidate quite like him. What he says is what he truly believes. The cynics will tell you he is just another politician. I don't agree with them. This man is special and we will be lucky to have him on the ticket.

A lot of us have been waiting a long time to have a candidate that not only genuinely supports our views on the issues but that can effectively communicate the reasons why those issues are so important. We now have that candidate and his name is John Edwards.

If John Edwards is not selected as the VP I think it will be a huge mistake for our Party. I also know that regardless of what happens with the VP spot, I will continue to do everything I can to make sure that this man is one day elected President. My commitment to John Edwards does not end with this election, it only begins with it.

[citizen snips]

19. John Edwards really inspired me.

In fact Edwards is the one who got me interested in politics. I remember seeing him at Broughton High School and I got to shake his hand and I also got his signature on my hat.

[be inspired]

21. optimism triumphs over cynicism

Yes, I agree with you. He's 100% genuine. I have also met both him and his wife Elizabeth. They're good people. I know it will be hard for cynics to believe, and we're all used to being cynical these days. I wish every voter in America could meet John Edwards or at least hear him speak in person. Then I think we'd come as close to a consensus as we're ever likely to on one thing at least: this man should be President some day.

[VOX]

66. Done. My wife and I saw Edwards speak in So. California...

It was his stump speech, but with some extras and variants thrown in. This is not a knock -- he is a master at connecting with people, making eye contact, and winning over an audience.

Edwards genius for communicating with remarkable efficacy alone makes him an excellent VP candidate.

This man is a big part of the Democratic Party's future, and he needs to be sent into the game.

[be inspired]

77. Love the cat!

I really love your cat animation! Where did you get that?

I agree with you that Edwards is a master at connecting with people. This would be such a boon for Kerry on the campaign trail. I sure hope he picks him for Vice President! John Edwards is such an inspiring speaker!

[OneBlueSky]

24. sorry, no can do . . . I think Clark would be a far better pick . . .

nothing against Edwards, but I think a Kerry/Clark ticket would be bulletproof in Bush's supposed area of strength . . . that would allow the campaign to shift focus to domestic affairs, where Bush is a definite loser . . . I wish Edwards well, but I'll be disappointed if he's the VP nominee . . .

[citizen snips]

29. 830 people choose to disagree with you.

And there is not telling how many people who have voiced there support of a kerry/edwards ticket here

[be inspired]

46. Now it's up over 900

And the petitiononline petition has only been up for 4 days.

[citizen snips]

47. We are doing great!

Keep on spreading the word.

[Scoopie]

93. And I would venture that at least one

- a very important one - John Kerry, himself, will disagree with you.
Edwards has much potential, but he's simply not ready to be a heartbeat away from the presidency. Kerry knows this - I hope!

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

38. Greetings

OneBlueSky, I love your Woody Guthrie avatar! I started out as a Clark supporter but after I heard Edwards and read his platform I was hooked. Sorry you can't support Edwards. If he is selected as VP I hope that even if you are disappointed you will give him a chance to earn your support. Hey are you a Pete Seeger fan too? This is so bizarre tonight. I posted on another topic at DU about Dylan and now I see Woody! Is this a flashback! ha! ha!

[OneBlueSky]

41. not only a Pete Seeger fan, but a long-time friend as well . . .

I've known Pete for about 35 years . . . don't see him much anymore, but do manage to run into him every so often . . . occasionaly get a note from him as well . . . one of my all-time heros, a wonderful person, and a national treasure, imo . . .

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

48. It truly is a small world!

OneBlueSky. How wonderful to hear that you are a friend of his. He came to Louisville, Ky back in the early 70s for an anti-violence march when our city was first introducing busing. I walked in that march and got a chance to say hello to him afterward. I love the guy. You are so right -- he IS a national treasure. Not too long ago I read his testimony from the McCarthy era. His answers were priceless.

Both my daughters loved the song Viva La Quince Brigada. We would sing that one and others in the car! Boy, I sure have some fond memories of those days. I still listen to my Pete Seeger records.

I also got a chance to say hello to him in September of 1984 when he came here for a rally to draw attention to racism at home and in South Africa. This was when Winnie & Nelson Mandela were political prisoners. I am proud to have had the opportunity to have been with him both times.

The next time you talk with Pete tell him that he is fondly remembered by a family in Kentucky and that we wish him the best!

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

51. Forgot to tell you

OneBlueSky, I was so focused on Pete Seeger that I forgot to mention this observation. In your comments you stated that with two military guys on the ticket that the focus would have to shift away from Iraq and back to the economy which you state is Bush's weakness. I think right now his weakness is on both the economy and the war in Iraq. I don't think he has a major strength right now. I am anxious to watch his press conference tonight. I wonder if he will have Cheney up there with him helping him to answer questions! Ha! Ha!

[DjTj]

25. Already signed it...

...in the 400's.

Keep spreading the word!

[Cuban_Liberal]

26. Signed!

:thumbsup:

[be inspired]

27. Many thanks!

Many thanks to all those who have signed! Please also ask your friends and relatives to sign. Go Kerry-Edwards!

[citizen snips]

28. Thanks Cuban_Liberal.

:hi:

[mourningdove92]

30. Count me in. I'm number 831.

[citizen snips]

31. Thanks and welcome to DU mourningdove92.

:hi:

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

32. Added my name.

[JohnKleeb]

33. I signed

[PatGund]

34. Sorry, can't do it

I do not feel that Edwards would be the best choice for the VP slot. As such, I cannot sign this petition. Best of luck anyway.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

35. Thanks for the kind message

PatGund, sorry to hear you can not sign the petition but thanks for your wish of good luck.

[Dookus]

37. I like Edwards

but I would sincerely hope that NO candidate would pick his running mate based on an internet petition. It's just too sad to contemplate.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

39. Thanks

Dookus. We agree with you. We know he will not choose his running mate because of an internet petition. We are all just strong supporters of Edwards and want to show our support. I guess we are still in campaign mode! It does keep us excited and you have to admit we want excited, motivated voters so that we can beat Bush in the fall! Thanks for your comments.

[be inspired]

44. Popularity is a factor in electability

I agree that he shouldn't let an internet petition be his only criteria for picking a VP. Popular opinion, on the other hand, is one very valid criteria for picking a VP - one that Kerry should certainly consider along with other factors.

Let's face it. It takes popularity to get elected. The fact that so many people are saying they want Edwards for VP is something that Kerry should consider seriously.

The petitions at http://www.petitiononline.com/edwards/ and http://www.draftkerryedwards.com are a way for the public to let John Kerry know that John Edwards has this popular support.

Of course, Kerry needs to also consider how well his VP would do the job. John Edwards has a brilliant mind and some great ideas. He'd be a very good choice, by any measure.

Thanks to everyone who has signed!

[katieforeman]

42. Already signed. Keep getting the word out.

[Harriette]

43. Kerry and Edwards on the campaign trail again?

I believe that in order for John Kerry to win the 2004
elections he has to have the complete endorsement of the
Southern States. He has a good chance of accomplishing this
feat by endorsing John Edwards. He has a keen understanding of
the issues, he's intelligent and dynamic. His philosophy on
life that promotes equal opportunities for all Americans seem
believable because he is a "self made" individual.
This quality enables him to be in tune with the human
conditions of the average American citizen. These are all
traits that are necessary when dealing with Forein Affairs. So
far, America has been involved in an International debacle
when it comes to foreign relations (i.e. Iraq). At this moment
in time, he appears to be the only viable candidate for the
Vice Presidency.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

50. What Number Were You on the Petition

Harriette - what number were you on the petition?

I think everyone should post their number so we can make sure this petition stays high up on the list to allow others to see it.

My number was 10

[DaveSZ]

52. I like Edwards,

but how is he going to debate Cheney when he was so pro-war himself?

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

53. DaveSZ

Hi DaveSZ. Both Kerry & Edwards voted for the war resolution and both have stated that they would have had the UN and our many allies involved. They would not have gone into Iraq alone. I disagree with both Kerry & Edwards that we needed to go to Iraq. I think we took our eye of the ball in Afganistan by doing so. Having said that, I don't think Edwards would have any problem debating Cheney on the war. Cheney is an extremist on this issue. He was gunning for Saddam long before we went to war. Edwards will be able to clearly define the differences.

[Celtic Mama]

57. I'm sorry, but, "the only viable candidate for VP"?

What can he offer on the Iraq situation? Kerry has Wes Clark out there walking point for him on the war issues while John handles the economic issues. Wes also has a Masters of Economics. What, seriously, has John Edwards got to offer this country besides outlook on life and a dynamic speech?? What can he offer to national security? This election is not about popularity or who can deliver what states. It's about who best complements Kerry. He will decide who best does that.

I think Edwards kind of embarassed himself at the Unity Dinner when he pushed himself in between Kerry and Clinton. He looked rather self serving. Who lobbies for VP?

[Crunchy Frog]

80. Welcome to DU Celtic Mama.

I have to say that I agree with you. I don't think that Edwards is the best choice, and his giving the appearance of pushing himself for it is very unseemly looking. I also think that the media is pushing very hard for a Kerry/Edwards ticket and I would tend to be wary of going for what the corporate media seems to want. They will not go after Edwards until he's been chosen, but after that, I believe they will in a big way.

Bush has landed this country in a huge international crisis, and I think that choosing Clark would mean that he is serious about dealing with that crisis. I think if Clark is chosen, he will finally get serious national exposure and that the ticket will be very popular.

That's just my opinion, but will not be signing the petition.

[Scoopie]

54. Not me - not in a million years

For two reasons:

1.) It's Iraq, stupid (see other DU thread), and Edwards doesn't know about foreign policy.

2.) If he's so great, why does he need a petition?

Sorry - I think you all are forcing Kerry's hand and he won't like that.
Besides, Edwards hasn't been vetted by the press. Put him on the ticket and watch them make a big deal about his lack of experiences.
Flame me if you want, but this is a ridiculous idea.

[Jai4WKC08]

58. Awww, now, Scoop....

Let 'em have their fun. It won't make a hill o' beans worth of difference and can only result in embarrassing Edwards.

...if that's possible.

[Celtic Mama]

61. How about the Unity Dinner?

Wasn't jumping in between Kerry and Clinton embarassing enough?

[Jai4WKC08]

78. That's exactly what I meant

Is it possible to embarrass him? What would it take?

[robsul82]

55. 931.

PICK EDWARDS.

Later.

RJS

[Celtic Mama]

56. Why??

Can I ask a silly question? What could John Edwards possibly offer this country as VP? This is not a popularity contest, as much as he would like it to be. Where is the substance? He may be a compassionate lawyer, but I don't think I want him a breath away from the Presidency. Why did he give up his seat in NC? Is he expecting to be the VP? That's just a bit obnoxious.

[citizen snips]

62. okay we get the point.

Clark supporters will not the sign the petition.

[Darkamber]

64. to answer your questions

He gave up his Senate Seat under pressure from his state who wanted to keep the seat open to a Democrat. He was running for President. He was never running for VP.

The primary reason that people did not vote for him was because they felt he didn't have enough experience. As he can not suddenly change and try for Senate or replace the Democratic Gov. of NC, many people who want him to get the experience that he needs for a future run at the President in the future, want him as VP now.

He has stated that his current intention now is to everything in his power to get Kerry elected. He will not answer question on the VP. Things like this petition is just grassroots stuff that the little people can do to give ourselves a voice.

There is much more to Edwards then just his charisma. Be brings alot to the table including his skills at making arguments and influencing people in Congress.

Most Edwards supporters do not see a military background as the most important thing for the VP. A broader vision is good as you can get advise from the experts. Edwards has a broad vision and he does well to put Kerry's views forward.

I heard someone joke that if Kerry picks Edwards, he not only gets a VP, but he gets his own personal Lawyer as well. But Edwards brings the rural vote and helps in the Midwest as well as helping with the Senate/house seats in the south.

[Scoopie]

68. It's not the military record

It's the diplomacy record... geez.

Edwards obviously lacks it, considering his jump in the middle of Clinton and Kerry for the money shot at the unity dinner.

And.. the South? He can't even bring North Carolina. What are you talking about? We need western Southern states (even my own) Tennessee, Arkansas and Lousiana.

We only need Tennessee and/or Louisiana to win - Clark, Graham or Cleland could do that and they have more FP gravitas.

[Darkamber]

71. Exactly...

You are right. Wes does have great diplomacy record. Which is why he should be Secretary of State and not VP. Why waste his skills in a job where he would be stuck in the Senate? How many times has Cheney been sent to deal with Foreign leaders?

And I didn't say anything about Edwards bringing his State. I mentioned him aiding to bring more Democratic Senate and Congressional seats from the south by campaigning with them.

[be inspired]

81. Yes, that's right.

Absolutely, Darkamber. Wes Clark's foreign policy skills would be wasted in the VP position. We need him as Secretary of State.

On the other hand, John Edwards' experience is more well-rounded since he's served on several different Senate committees. He's also more likely to help Kerry win the election, given his communication skills, ability to connect with voters, and the fact that he's won an election before.

[Scoopie]

94. Because Holbrooke will be the SOS

EOM

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

88. ?

If you are not interested then maybe you should go to a topic that interests you.

[GreenArrow]

90. "he may be a compassionate lawyer"

he may be a money grubbing, personally ambitious lawyer. Other than that, I agree with your concerns. He needs to go back to NC and take a few pro bono cases.

[maddezmom]

59. No thanks, but good luck

:)

[BootinUp]

60. Edwards adds little

to the ticket. Kerry needs to be the positive voice at the top. Edwards being a good positive speaker on economic issues would step on Kerry in that area. Kerry needs someone who can attack, attack, attack on the failed foreign policies, with the credentials and knowledge to make that case. We need the heavy medal ticket to completely outclass Bush/Cheney on National Security in this time of war. And as a liberal democrat I for one couldn't be happier than to have a liberal Mass Sen and a liberal 4 star General on the ticket.

[Auntie Bush]

63. I agree with you Jim! No Edwards for me! Go Wes Go!

[Lefta Dissenter]

65. Yeah,

...what Jim said! :bounce:

The debate will be great - Wes against Cheney.

Edwards against Cheney? It's way too easy to portray Cheney as the 'elder statesman' with foreign policy experience. :puke:

[dogman]

67. What debate?

Edwards agreed with Cheney that there was a connection between Saddam and 9-11.

[JI7]

69. that's one of the best cases for Clark for vp i have read

i still don't have any 1 favorite. but what you bring up is important. i have always thought and still do that kerry himself has the foreign policy/national security issue on his side. and he is good at speaking on the issue. but the vp is the attack dog and in this case the vp will be up against cheney. and it's cheney who is brought on to mostly discuss the fp/ns issues so a vp who is a good attack dog in that area would be a good idea.

[BootinUp]

72. There are much smarter Clarkies

than me, FrenchieCat comes to mind. So I stole some of her excellent work. But thanks for the compliment. I want to say that I am very surprised that Edwards supporters were not upset at my post. It must mean that we are all resigned to do what we can and accept Kerry's decision. Kudos to the Edwards supporters. :D

[citizen snips]

73. I was not offended.

I am just tired of these back an forth flame wars. These flame wars are really getting old.

We can show our support for who we want for VP but remember the choice is up to Kerry.

[BootinUp]

74. you got it right Mattman!

:toast:

[Darkamber]

75. Edwards himself supports this views...

Just to quote Edwards for Inside Politics yesterday... They were talking about VP choices.

"EDWARDS: Can I just say one other word about this? This is an important decision for Senator Kerry, one of the most important decisions he'll make between now and November.

I think he should be given room to make it. omen it's an important issue for him personally and the country and it says a lot about the kind of administration he wants."



Basically, I think Clark supporters and Edwards supporters are looking at the lead they want Kerry to make in different directions, but I think Edwards says it best. This is a personal decision that Kerry will make.

For myself, I'll vote for Kerry no matter what the choice as I think our future is too important to leave in Bush's hands.

And I never had any problems with your posts. Logical arguements I can support. It's the petty stuff that I dislike.

[wadestock]

70. This is outstanding....

I complement your initiative....and rationale....

Many don't appreciate just how a poor choice for VP can BLOW the whole thing....(shades of Gore)

You gotta get in first before you can clean up the mess...

[be inspired]

76. You need to get elected before you can clean up the mess!

Yes, if Gore had picked Edwards last time, I think we would never have had to deal with Bush's mess. I hope Kerry chooses Edwards this time, because we need a Democratic victory and we need a Vice President with positive communication skills to help us do that. We need a VP that people like. One that will inspire them.

But I'd really like to thank the Clark supporters for responding to this post and making it a hot topic. That lets more people see the link to the Edwards for VP petition: http://www.petitiononline.com/edwards/
Thanks!

[be inspired]

79. Petitiononline.com seems to be working better now.

The petitiononline site was a little bit slow or not responding earlier today, but it seems to be back now.

I'd like to thank all who have signed to support a ticket that can give us a Democratic victory in November! We need John Edwards for Vice President.

For those of you who haven't signed yet, please do:

John Edwards for Vice President petition

Draft Kerry-Edwards petition

Thanks!

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

82. This petition seems a bit desperate.

I understand that Edwards' want very much for him to be Kerry's VP choice, and I applaud their loyalty. But Kerry and his advisers certainly know enough about Edwards and the other possible VP choices to make a sensible, informed choice without a bunch of people, well... begging ... on behalf of their guy. Seems to me that it's almost insulting, and therefore counterproductive, to present this petition; the implicit suggestion is that Kerry doesn't know much about Edwards, so his supporters have to inform Kerry what they feel Edards can bring to the ticket. If Edwards is really such a stellar choice -- so excellent that the choice must be obvious -- why should a petition even be necessary? Kerry will choose the candidate who has the kind of experience and qualifications that can best complement the ticket; who he thinks can best act as President if necessary, and who he feels comfortable working with. That could be any number of people -- maybe Edwards, maybe somebody else. He's not my choice, so I won't sign the petition in any event. But even if he was, I wouldn't want him to grovel for the job, nor would I want to do it for him.

[citizen snips]

83. nobody is begging.

We are just showing our support for a kerry/edwards ticket.

[be inspired]

84. It takes popularity to get elected

Whether we like it or not, an election IS by definition a popularity contest. Kerry's VP choice, of course, is entirely up to him. But one of the things he certainly should be considering is the popularity of his VP choice, because if he picks a VP that people like, it will help him get elected in November.

The intent of the petition is simply to show the strength of our support for John Edwards. This is information that Kerry should find valuable if some of his goals are 1. to represent the people and 2. to pick a running mate who will help him to get elected. We are doing this because we think John Edwards is the best choice for Vice President. If participation in politics and democracy is desperate, fine. Call us desperate.

[DjTj]

85. Welcome to DU!

...even if you ARE raining on the Edwards parade here...

:hi:

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

87. Why so Angry?

Ocelot. You are certainly entitled to your opinion we just don't agree with you. Those of us that choose to sign this petition do so because of our strong support of Senator Edwards. It makes us feel good and there is nothing wrong with that! I'm sorry that for some reason it makes you feel angry. I'm also sorry that you feel that because WE have created a petition that somehow our actions translate into Edwards "groveling" for the job. I just don't get the connection? Senator Edwards didn't create the petition, so why do you drag him into it? If you don't like the idea of our petition criticize those of us that created the petition, not someone else. When the Dean supporters created a VP petition for Dean I certainly didn't get angry. I thought it was a great idea! I was happy that they were loyal supporters of Howard Dean.

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

89. I'm not angry at all.

If anything, I'm amused at the idea that Kerry, or any other candidate, would take a petition like that seriously. My point is that this isn't a popularity contest, and shouldn't be treated as if it were. The VP has to be able to BE the president if necessary; he's not running for Prom King.

[be inspired]

86. 1000+

We now have over 1,000 signatures and counting!

[Leilani]

91. I understand your enthusiasm for your candidate,

but if John Kerry picks Edwards, I dont know if I can support the ticket.

The country is at war, & you see what has happened with Bush, a person with no foreign policy experience, at the helm.

I am a Clark supporter, & I dont think he will be selected as running mate, but I need to see Kerry make a wise decision with his Veep choice. Kerry is reasonably young & in good health, but we never know what may happen.

We have thousands of troops in Iraq & Afghanistan & we are in a real mess. Even a person with foreign policy knowledge will have real difficulty in trying to extract us from this quagmire.

We also have terrorists who would love to succeed with another attack.

This is not the time for on-the-job training.

[citizen snips]

98. I will support anybody that Kerry picks.

But lets also remember that right now Kerry needs a running mate who will attract labor unions. And with John Edwards on the ticket all the labor unions will be united with Kerry.

[JI7]

101. most labor unions and members already support Kerry

but there are some who are conservative leaning, especially on social issues and they find it hard to vote for a massachusettes democrat. i think edwards got a lot of these voters though and if he can get some to vote for kerry with him on the ticket it might help kerry in close races.

i knew they were conservatives when they said they would probably support bush because he has a good family and has morals. i really don't care for these people, but if edwards appeals to them and can help get those votes then it would be good to consider him.

[Adelante]

95. I am reminded of a group of Clark supporters

who wanted to spend thousands of dollars on a full-page ad in the New York Times to do quite the same thing, only for a Clark VP. By overwhelming majority, this misguided effort was shouted down by Clark supporters and ultimately quashed by the man himself once he got wind of it. The reasoning? Because it would have taken attention from where it belongs, on the Democratic nominee John Kerry. Kerry deserved the respect of being allowed to pick his own VP for his own reasons based on his own needs. It might have proved embarrassing for both men, caused tension between the camps and disrupted the unity effort. It would have looked cheap and manipulative.

This petition reminds me of that ad idea.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

96. Clark Supporters

For those Clark supporters that have posted comments criticizing Edwards supporters for their petition (cheap & manipulative, etc.), I leave you with these words --

"You can't change people's minds by shooting at them."
Wes Clark, 4/14/04, NPR, All Things Considered

Whether it is bullets or words, shooting at people has never changed anyone's mind.

[citizen snips]

97. Great quote.

But us Edwards supporters have had bullets thrown at us for a long time here at DU.

1.Edwards is a son of a mill manager.
2.Edwards helped a war crimanal.
3.Edwards is cheap trial lawyer.
4.Edwards is a corporate man.

Yup Kerry Edwards 2004 you should have been here a long time ago to see how much shit has been thrown at Edwards.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

99. Mattman - I know what you mean

Mattman, I have seen plenty of those type of comments and worse on the Kerry website. The comments usually come from Clark supporters for some reason? I agree the attacks on this website are mild compared to the ones on the Kerry site. The real shame of it is that I don't think General Clark or Senator Kerry would be very pleased with any of their supporters that would be out there making those kind of attacks. I respect the Clark supporters that argue the merits of their candidate, but the ones that can only sling mud I usually ignore. There have been some very nice Clark supporters on this website. Hell, I thought I would be a Clark supporter! I ended up changing to Edwards after watching him on C-Span as we got closer to the vote in Iowa. I always liked General Clark, I just thought Edwards was the better candidate. Like I said it is a real shame to read some of the over the top comments that I have seen against Edwards. I actually think some of the worse ones come from Republicans masquerading as Clark supporters to stir up trouble.

[JI7]

102. there are a lot of attacks on Kerry

on the edwards site also.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

103. J17 I agree with you!

J17, I agree with you. It is very sad. A lot of the people that still post on that site are the ones that have not moved beyond the primaries. Most of them won't even go to the Kerry site like some of us. They are very bitter. That is why I am so disappointed that attacks of Edwards have been allowed to continue unchallenged by the moderators on the Kerry site. I am trying to bring people over to the Kerry campaign and it makes it much more difficult for me to bring people over if they see personal attacks being made on Edwards and tacitly condoned by the site. I posted on the JRE website that negative comments should not be posted about Kerry on our site.

I have not posted on the JRE campaign site for awhile, but today I will go out there and if there are any personal attacks being made against Kerry you better believe I will be challenging those people (I have done it before).


I hope that if you go to the Kerry site that you will do the same for JRE. It is up to all of us that support Kerry to make sure that we defend him when he is wrongfully attacked and that we defend other Democrats who support him who are wrongfully attacked. Thanks for your message.

[Darkamber]

105. There are also Edwards supporters who support Kerry

I know there is at least one person on the Edwards site that posts very regularly and is very anti-Kerry and very neg. It's gotten to the point where I hate to go there because of the neg of that one person.

However, there are many more supporters who do not agree with this one person and a few others.

Many of us who will and do support Kerry and infact believe in what Edwards says about lifting people up and not tearing them down.

I won't stand for the false attacks against Clark either. I can accept logical arguments against Edwards, but it's personal attacks that are sad and only hurt Democrats in general.

If we can stay away from personal attacks against ANY democrat then
we can help all democrats.

[dogman]

104. Facts are bullets?

Since most of the above is true why is it called shit? I don't believe #3 however, since his wealth was derived from his practice, I don't believe anyone has called him cheap. I also believe you are misstating #2. He supported a man who helped a war criminal, I think that was the point made. I personally believe Edwards is an honorable politician (oxymoron?). I just don't believe he is qualified to be President based on a stump speech. I think this job requires some real world experience. He needs to gain some of that before he's ready.

[DjTj]

100. The difference is...

...this petition cost nothing and has nowhere near the publicity of a New York Times ad. There was no polling of supporters or any backroom meetings where this petition was planned and executed. This petition was started by one man, and it is being signed through simple word of mouth through grassroots networks that already existed from the campaign.

I'm actually surprised how little tension this has created. The responses to this thread are overwhelmingly positive - and on DU, no less!

I don't see anything cheap or manipulative about this. It's just one Edwards supporter expressing his views and finding that there are many out there that agree with him. No, this isn't manipulative, this is grass-roots democracy at its best - individuals across the country expressing their opinions and being heard.

[ramble2155]

106. This is Kerrys first big test in the national campaign

Kerry needs to make this decision on his own and pick the right vp to strengthen his ticket. Edwards doesnt bring much to the table other than his likeability factor. Also Kerry and Edwards dont seem to be overly fond of each other and Edwards threatens to outshine Kerry. Bad chemistry between the team would be obvious.

[Kerry Edwards 2004]

107. Kerry Gets The Final Choice

Kerry will make the final decision. We all have read in the papers where Jim Johnson is running the search for the right VP. We also read pundits and various politicians voicing their view of who would be the best candidate. Our petition is our way of voicing our view of who would be the best candidate.

I too have read that Edwards & Kerry are not fond of each other. I have also read that the opposite is true. Neither you nor I know the true answer. I do know that when the NYT photographer took their photo together they looked like they were having a great time! I did not see the obvious bad chemistry that you aluded was present.

Public speaking is not Kerry's strength so I would have to agree with you that Edwards might "outshine" Kerry in that respect. But I don't think that Kerry is so insecure that he would be bothered by having Edwards on the ticket just because he did something better than Kerry. Do you?

[ngGale]

108. Got my John Henry and...

John Edwards has something to give that nobody else can. Hope and a positive message for the future. He also makes Kerry shine, he compliments him. I had to admit that during the debates. Clark is O.K., but Kerry already has experience in combat. Edwards can bring balance and take away the fear factor we all have. Clark can be in the cabinet where he is needed. I think JRE deserves more than being a Vice, but we have to win this election. He can bring in the South and a lot of conservatives that would not vote for anyone else.
And God knows we need some hope in this country. I'm tired of hearing 24/7 'fear factor.'