Still faithful: Clinton supporters came together Sunday at a Denver eatery to screen a documentary critical of Obama. (Mary Knox Merrill – Staff)
Hillary’s clout is key at Democratic Convention
If she signals ambivalence, some supporters could stay home this fall.
By Ariel Sabar | Staff writer/ August 25, 2008 edition
Reporter Ariel Sabar discusses the role of Clinton supporters at the convention.
Reporter Ariel Sabar
Denver – The chances of a Democratic victory this fall may well turn on what Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton says in her prime time speech at the Democratic National Convention here Tuesday.
If she pleads with the 18 million Americans who voted for her to bury the hatchet and get behind Barack Obama, Democrats may regain the White House. If she signals the slightest ambivalence, enough of her supporters may stay home – or vote for GOP rival John McCain – to cost Democrats the race.
For Senator Obama, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Voter surveys show a tightening race with Senator McCain. In an NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll last week, just one of two voters who supported Senator Clinton in the primaries say they now back Obama.
The McCain campaign sought to exploit the party’s internal rifts Sunday with a TV ad questioning Obama’s choice of Sen. Joseph Biden as vice president. “She won millions of votes but isn’t on his ticket,” a female narrator intones in the ad called “Passed Over,” referring to Clinton. “Why?”
Denver is abuzz this week with die-hard Clinton supporters planning protests, rallies, and celebrations that will culminate with a march on Tuesday, the 88th anniversary of the day the 19th Amendment granted women voting rights.
“Hillary supporters are still very upset with the party, very upset with the media, very upset with the process, to the point where I think millions of them will not vote for Obama in November,” says Darragh Murphy, the founder of PUMA PAC, a pro-Clinton political action committee that claims 10,000 members and is planning a series of events here.
The protests come in a week meant to showcase party unity and follow three months of overtures from the Obama campaign. The Illinois senator gave Clinton and her husband, former president Bill Clinton, prominent speaking roles at the convention. The Democratic platform this year is expected to include language condemning “demeaning portrayals of women,” a response to women’s groups who felt that a sexist news media cost Clinton the nomination.
The Democratic National Committee (DNC) on Sunday backed Obama’s recent request to restore full convention voting rights to delegates from Michigan and Florida. Those states voted for Clinton but had been punished for holding early primaries in violation of party rules.
Perhaps most significantly, Obama agreed to put Clinton’s nomination to a roll-call vote on the convention floor Wednesday, a symbolic gesture of recognition for her hard-fought candidacy.
Clinton has said that that vote would give her supporters the emotional release they need to unify behind Obama and has squelched suggestions of any secret plans to revive her candidacy.
“I know from just what I’m hearing, that there’s incredible pent-up desire,” she said at a California fundraiser last month. “And I think that people want to feel like, ‘OK, it’s a catharsis, we’re here, we did it,’ and then everybody get behind Senator Obama.”
But Obama’s concessions are a gamble that may embolden as many disaffected voters as they placate.
“Can it heal wounds or will it simply reopen them and allow them to stay raw?” asks Steven Peterson, a political science professor at Penn State Harrisburg. “If there are people who feel extremely upset, they may use [the roll-call vote and protests] as a vehicle for trying to show support for Clinton in ways that might hurt the party.”
Some pro-Clinton blogs have seethed with anger in recent days over reports that Obama’s vice-presidential search committee never vetted Clinton. (Obama aides responded that she had already been vetted during her eight years as first lady and over the course of the grueling nomination fight.)
But if Clinton shares that outrage, she has not let on publicly. Clinton, who was reportedly interested in the vice presidency, praised the choice of Senator Biden and has asked her supporters to rally behind Obama.
Her staff has dispatched a 40-person “whip team” to Denver to keep her delegates from turning the floor vote on her nomination into a fight. And she appears increasingly likely to release her delegates before the vote, a move that would give them cover to vote for Obama.
But like nothing else since her concession speech in June, her address Tuesday night – from her choice of words to her tone and body language – could determine how many of her fiercest supporters vote for Obama.
“It depends on the quality of her appeal to them,” says Conrad McBride, a professor emeritus of politics at the University of Colorado at Boulder. “If they think she’s not being genuine, they’re not going to move. If they think she is sincerely interested in getting Obama elected, some may come along. I doubt she will win over all of them.”
A Pew Research Center report this month found that Obama has made little headway with Clinton supporters since sealing the nomination. Some 18 percent said in August that they would vote for McCain, virtually the same as in June.
One of the largest pro-Clinton events – a march through downtown Denver Tuesday – is being organized by 18 Million Voices, a grass-roots group that takes no position on Obama. Elizabeth Fiechter, a Manhattan lawyer who founded the group in June, says the march is meant to celebrate Clinton’s historic candidacy and push women’s rights to the top of the party’s agenda.
“We’re not here to protest, and we’re not here to break the party in half,” she says. “The vast majority of our supporters feel like they’re undecided. They’re very well educated, thinking women who say, ‘We’ll watch and wait to see who appeals to us the most.’ ”
Ms. Murphy, of the more belligerent PUMA PAC, says she and others will be listening closely Tuesday for clues to Clinton’s true feelings. “She’s a master of subtlety,” Murphy says.
Even so, she says, her group is looking beyond Clinton’s defeat to the next election. A Democratic loss in November, she says, is the only way to prod party leaders to reform what some Clinton supporters see as a broken nomination system. “The only way the DNC will change is if they lose,” she says. “That’s the only power they’ve left to the voters.”
At a restaurant on the outskirts of Denver Sunday night, some 60 women gathered at a PUMA PAC-sponsored screening of a documentary called “The Audacity of Democracy.” In interviews beforehand, many said they would defy Clinton’s calls for party unity.
“Senator Clinton is under tremendous pressure from the DNC to fall in line,” said Connie Kafka, a middle-aged corporate communications writer from Shell, Wyo., who says she will be voting for a Republican, McCain, for the first time in her life. “I feel in her heart, she doesn’t believe it.”
Comments
2. Mike Gross | 08.25.08
Clinton supporters who say they won’t vote for Obama should either resign from the party by changing their registrations or get booted out of it. They are not true Democrats, who should have one objective and one objective only: To het into power.
3. Chris in FL | 08.25.08
Ms. Sabar:
I appreciate your coverage of the PUMA movement. We need to reclaim our party and boot out the likes of Howard Dean and Nancy Pelosi. I do want to make one point though - for millions of us PUMAs it doesn’t matter what Hillary says on Tuesday night - we are free thinkers and vote by our own instincts - not even what Hillary says will sway our choice to not fall in line in November. Hillary should feel no pressure at all - it’s our choice, not hers.
4. N.B. Dhaemers | 08.25.08
Under no circumstances will I vote for Obama. Should Clinton some how get the nomination for the Democtratic ticket I will support her all the way. Otherwise I will vote for McCain.
5. Nick Bajzek | 08.25.08
Dear Clinton Supporters: Get over it. She lost. She had plenty of money, clout, and arrogance going into the race and lost. Not because of the media or any of the aforementioned reasons. She simply didn’t have any solid stances on anything. What’s her plan for dealing with the economy? I couldn’t tell you, and I LIKED her. So what, out of spite you’re going to vote for a fake war hero (last in his class, worst pilot in his squadron, son and grandson of top brass and got FAR better treatment than any other POW), an admitted know-nothing on economic policy and, what’s worse, a do-nothing Senator who has been up and down the aisle on almost every single issue? Right. Good move. THAT’S the way you should use your vote. Morons.
6. brian musah | 08.25.08
Attempts by disgruntled Clintonites to sabotage Obama can only be sel-defeating. Even if some of Hillary’s more foolish supporters get their way and Obama loses the election is by no means certain that Hillary will still be able to bag the Democratic nomination in 2012.A more “acceptable” third candidate would probably snatch the nomination again.It is likely Hillary woud have built up more baggage and alienated other crucial sections of the electorate by then. Remember until a few years ago hardly anyone knew or had heard of Obama and Clinton had for a decade been regarded as the de facto Democratic nominee.The best hope for Democrats is to unite behind Obama.They may never get another chance in a generation if the mis this sht at the White House.
7. KD | 08.25.08
It is obscene what is happening in this party right now. I agree, it was a great fight. It was incredible history to watch both Obama and Clinton get so close in the primaries, but in the end we have a single candidate and we need that candidate to win this election. What people need to see, past their own pride, is that we are in a very bad place in this country and we cannot go through another 4 years of these policies.
Put the pettieness behind and lets do what we know is right for once and elect with a single mind.
8. Bev | 08.25.08
I am a Republican who was determined to vote Democrat this year (first time in my voting life)only……..
The best candidate is not running. She wasn’t even selected VP.
So the lesser of the two evils for me is to support John McCain and his VP choice.
Hope to see Hillary Clinton run in 2012. She’d have my support once again.
9. Mark | 08.25.08
PUMA PAC was founded by and is funded by the GOP. You can spot their members on comments boards and blogs - they are the GOP imposters pretending to be angry Clinton supporters that use GOP talking points. Another Rovian tactic of division but this time, instead of Red vs Blue, we have Clinton vs Obama. Clever, but completely lacking in integrity. Think of it as an extension to Rush Limbaugh’s “Operation Chaos” where hoards of Republicans voted for Clinton after McCain became the nominee, then complained loudly to the press when Clinton lost. Many media outlets are more than happy to echo chamber this non-story.
10. Sharon | 08.25.08
I’m sure Hillary knows that if her supporters hurt this presidency that she can kiss any chance of becoming president in the future. I have two high school boys who plan on joining the military and if Hillary’s supporters allow John MCCain to have his way with my children I will never forgive Hillary.
11. Chris in FL | 08.25.08
2. Mike Gross | 08.25.08
This is where you are wrong - we’re more Democratic than you can wrap your brain around - millions of us.
12. Chris Cameron | 08.25.08
The onus is on Obama, not Hillary Clinton. Obama is the nominee. So far he has not courted Clinton supporters. In fact, he has done everything possible to run them off. It is not Hillary Clinton’s responsibility to put Barack Obama in the White House. It is Obama’s responsibility to get her voters to vote for him. So far he has failed miserably. I am a thirty year Democrat who intends to vote for a Republican, John McCain, for the first time in my life.
Obama has done nothing but offend me. As a Hillary supporter I have been called a hick, a dead-ender, bitter, racist. Telling me to “get over it” is not a good strategy to win my vote. Barack Obama’s sense of entitlement will cost him this election. He and his followers display an ugly and irrational hatred of Bill and Hillary Clinton that I find hugely offensive.
13. Hardworkingwhiteperson | 08.25.08
We will punish every traitor who supports Nobama. Rendell, Judas, Dean, Gorzilla, Pukosi, supers– this means you
NObama no skanky Michelle redecorating our house in her “style”!!!
No bling in the White house!!!
Hillary!!!
PUMA
14. Josh | 08.25.08
Barack Obama should have vetted and selected Hillary Clinton as his running mate. Because he didn’t, thinking that he can do whatever he wants to do, even if it means slapping all of us in the face… I will vote for McCain. Barack Obama is an arrogant loser.
15. Timmeh | 08.25.08
N.B. Dhaemers, so you will vote for someone who has almost exact opposite policy positions as Clinton, and who doesn’t even know how many houses he owns? You’re shooting yourself in the foot, buddy.
16. Fed up | 08.25.08
Give women the vote…………..that’s how they handle it. Go home and bake bread where you belong.
17. EWard | 08.25.08
Eddie
Senator Obama cheated in the caucuses. It is documented and on film. He didn’t play by the rules. He paid off the super delegates along with the PAC money of Pelosi, Stoyer and others. Without the supers his delegate count is around 1800. Yes, some of Hillary’s supporters have switched since June 3, but only through coercion by Obama and the DP. As much money as he’s taking in every month, Obama is spending it as fast on media ads.
Case in point - He has spent $6.5 million dollars in Fl alone and is still losing to McCain.
The country does not trust Senator Obama and the polls reflect that.
18. Nick | 08.25.08
Have fun when McCain wins, women. You won’t have abortion rights for the next century.
19. Queen81Puma | 08.25.08
The democratic party does not control me or the way that I choose to vote. Should Obama lose in November, they will have no ones to blame but themselves. This is not Hillary’s fault or PUMAS fault. This is an example of the party selecting, not electing a nominee and the people will not fall in line for this dishonesty. I have been a democrat all my life, however this year I will vote republican.
20. Ario | 08.25.08
First of all…country before party. And its ludicrous (one of Barry’s boys btw) to think Barry is more qualified than Mccain….lol Thats why Barry is losing …too much silliness!
21. Linda | 08.25.08
This is absolutely unbeliveable!! Do these people really think our country can handle 4 more years of Republicans?? Can’t they see what has happened during the last 8 years and do they hate the United States so much that they would rather see us all go down the tubes than to vote for Obama? That’s just crazy and sick. All you people should be ashamed. I did not want Hillary for president for a lot of reasons but had she won the nomination, I would have held my nose and voted for her. Can’t you do the same for Obama? We desperately need Democrats in the white house!!! Get with the program or get out!
22. lolita Lekha | 08.25.08
Amazing….a bunch of Thaterites, clearly are Clinton supporters….selfish and focused only on their own empowerment…Suffragettes not suffragists.
I am a feminist woman, who certainly did not want clinton to get the nomination as she has such double standards and essentially was/is a Republican, (she was a paid up member of the Republican Party, and only changed when she alighted upon Bill). However had she done so, got the nomination, I would have voted for her. How can anyone who considers themsleves “intelligent, highly educated, free-thinkers” vote for McCain. Such extreme vitriolic anger is very concerning emanating from amongst her supporters. Like any minority group ( I am of one) it is not OK to simply say it was the ‘group’ - women in this instance, Clinton, that received discrimination. Many men voted for her, as many women did not. It was her past, certain qualities, including her relationships, that marred her being chosen. It is not good enough to have ‘any woman’ or ‘any of any other group’. It has to be the person who is right, authentic and sincere for the position.
23. Mark | 08.25.08
Chris writes “not even what Hillary says will sway our choice to not fall in line in November.” PUMA officially has about 10,000 members (not millions) and it’s founder is a long time Republican contributor as one can see by public campaign contribution disclosures. Second, you already made up your mind to vote Republican long ago. As a GOP imposter, you despise the Clintons and always have. The Clintons are not anti-Pelosi/Dean, it is however a very common theme amongst the right-wing websites. Lame, very lame. Do you actually get paid to act?
24. ARTIE BURRIS | 08.25.08
After being a Democrat all my life of 73 years, I can’t vote for a person tha tis not a true Democrat or even a true American.
25. MickeyW | 08.25.08
How utterly heartbreaking to see such pettiness and petulance disrupt the process at such a crucial time in history. To announce ahead of time that you would not even be swayed by the directives of your so called de facto leader says so much about the sheer potential for malevolence once people can not let go of bitterness. To even contemplate voting for John McCain and ushering in four more years of havoc wreaking decisionmaking as a thumb your nose gesture?
I have trouble fathoming this kind of thinking and behavior.As a woman, it also makes me very sad.
26. clay s | 08.25.08
I am at a loss to understand why a Hillary supporter would vote for McCain. If you don’t like Obama fine, don’t vote! A vote for McCain is a vote against nearly everything Hillary fought for.
It is sad that so many votes are cast without the head and the heart connected to the X on the box. How can we become healthier in our voting practices?
27. Sammie | 08.25.08
I had said it two months ago and will say it again: Obama will not get my vote come this November. Depending on who McCain will be choosing for his VP, I will either stay home or Vote for McCain.
28. Ben Richards | 08.25.08
What a bunch of fools the PUMA crowd are. They would rather see the chance to undo all the damage of the Bush administration go down the drain. Do you think that John McCain, a man who abandoned his wife to marry a rich trophy wife will hold women’s issues in high regard? Will John McCain’s healthcare plan and tax cutsfor the wealthy benefit middle class Americans? Face it, you are spoiled-sports who aren’t getting your way. And you don’t care if your little tantrums bring the dreams of the democratic party down with them. PATHETIC! P.eople A.ngry T.hat H.illary E.vokes T.otally I.infantile C.rybabies
29. PA Guy | 08.25.08
People just don’t get it…
They need to ask…Who would they hire?
With experience comes the knowledge of what works and what does not work. With experience comes the wisdom of not only recognizing you strengths, but your weakness. With experience comes the integrity understanding your failures and never repeating mistakes. With experience, you develop confidence and mostly…a spine. Hillary has a history of fighting for what is right for all Americans. Her experience would lead America in the right direction. Having gone through seven plant closings, downsizings, and relocations, I understand the importance of ‘Experienced Required”. Why should it be any different in an election? We need to hire the candidate who has a proven track record. I never got hired based on popularity or delivering BS, but on what I was able to bring to that employer and perform DAY ONE! Who would you hire and trust with the most important job in the world?
We need to vote WHATS GOOD THE COUNTRY, not what’s good for the Party. No time for OJT!
We need a Leader NOW and we need to restore faith and confidence in the Democratic Party. The WILL of the People has been overruled by Delegates.
Next to Hillary, McCain is the next qualified!
30. Chris | 08.25.08
This is incredible. After 8 years of Bush/Cheney and facing more of the same with McCain the Democratic party should be able to elect Bozo the Clown with any show of unity. Only the Democratic party can throw this election away. If the party can’t get it’s own act together behind a meaningful platform then it doesn’t deserve to lead this country.
31. Sean in OC | 08.25.08
The media slew Hillary during the primaries and now they are the villains on the Obama downfall…come on.
The Obamites will grasp at any straw that helps defend their point of view.
The fact is that Obama missed an opportunity for unity and an opportuity to let the voice of the people be heard. He was ill advised and made an awful decision. If we want to speculate I’m certain Michelle had something to do with it. Too many poorly formed biases towards the Clinton’s and yes racial division spawned by the Obama camp.
If Obama loses he has no one to blame but himself. Democrats should vote for who they feel represents them. If Obama doesn’t fit the bill then pass over him.
32. Rake Morgan | 08.25.08
The reluctance of many Hillary supporters to switch over to Obama has as much to do with the obnoxious attitudes of his supporters and managers towards Hillary Clinton and those of us who support her. I call it “Obamacide.” They continue to denigrate her and her campaign.
To suggest that Democrats are supposed to have a “civil debate” while Obama surrogates were tearing down in the most vile ways people who dedicated themselves to this country is appalling and unforgivable. No, if Obama loses, don’t blame the Clintons or anyone else. Every Obama supporter can look in the mirror and find the real culprit.
33. Joyce M | 08.25.08
quote: “We’re not here to protest, and we’re not here to break the party in half,” she says. “The vast majority of our supporters feel like they’re undecided. They’re very well educated, thinking women who say, ‘We’ll watch and wait to see who appeals to us the most.’”
Any Democratic women who would line up behind McCain are neither well-educated nor thinking. It amazes me that they would consider voting for McCain, someone who has said countless times in the last few months that he would like to repeal Roe vs. Wade, let alone all the degrading, misogynistic comments he has said about women over the years. Obama may be second choice, but McCain should not be a choice at all. It’s ignorance at its worst.
34. Chris in FL | 08.25.08
5. Nick Bajzek | 08.25.08
ARE YOU KIDDING ME?
Your empty suit candidate who STOLE all of Clinton’s solutions on the economy. GIVE ME A BREAK. Take the blinders off buddy!
Wow - you win the award today!!!
35. Amazed | 08.25.08
A serious question to those who say they won’t vote for Obama:
If McCain wins this election, in 4 years we will have the most “conservative” supreme court in living memory. I don’t know about you, but as a feminist and humanitarian, that strikes terror into my heart. Please tell me: Is it really worth it to saddle our country with that legacy (not to mention the debt and division of wealth brought about by the republican policies) - just to prove your point about Hillary and Obama? Why?
I fear you’ll live to regret that choice. Not for you, but for my children, and indeed for the world, I’m scared! There must be better ways to work with this situation.
36. J Bakken | 08.25.08
Thousands of us have “resigned from the party” as you suggest. After all, Donna and Barack have both said that our votes didn’t matter. Many of us have been voting for Democrats for over fifty years and now we are told that we aren’t needed.
By the way, there is nothing civil at all about a male Presidential candidate giving the finger to a Former First Lady and Senator. Give me a break.
37. GG | 08.25.08
I am a true democrat, but I am not going to waste my vote simply for party affiliation. Between the two contenders, only MaCain has shown enough substance to earn my Hillary vote. He may be a republican but he is centerist enough for my comfort level.
38. Linda in Va | 08.25.08
I will never vote Obama and no I am not a republican. I am a democrat that knows better. We need someone with the experience to lead this country. Obama will only drive this country further into the ground as Bush and Pelosi have done. Hillary could have turned this country around but the DNC hand picked their puppet in Obama. If not Hillary than McCain.
39. Treesa | 08.25.08
I am a lifelong democrat. The DNC will not tell me who to vote for. BO will never have my support. (I also do not give money to televangelists). If Hillary can not run because of the fraud and corruption oozing from the DNC et al then my yard sign will be Nader/Gonzalez until McCain announces his VP (just to show there are liberal options)
40. Rick , VA | 08.25.08
Do you think the PUMAS know that they are destroying Hillary’s chances of ever running for President again? I was a Hillary supporter because of her stance on Health Care and I am very opposed to MCCAIN’S Health Care plan that would allow the broken system to continue. This is not what Hillary stood for and would ever stand for. If you PUMAS are successful you will reduce the legacy of a great fighter for working people to someone who enabled the Republicans to continue failed policies to the detriment of children without health insurance, the middl-class, the working-poor, the environment etc etc etc
I WISH YOU PEOPLE NO LUCK!!!
41. Chris in FL | 08.25.08
9. Mark | 08.25.08
I hate to spoil your brilliant conclusion but our voter ID cards say DEMOCRAT. If you want to take the chance that we are all cloked republicans - you just go right ahead and do it.
42. Barb Puma | 08.25.08
Gee, I did not know that being a Democrat meant to be a robot. What happened to free thinking folks? The days of just “falling in line” behind the “selected” candidate are over. It is time to wake up and take a look at what is really going on here. I was brainwashed for many years in thinking that the Repubs were corrupt until this year when I took a hard look at the Dems. Different name, same or worse tactics. If I have to choose between 2 corrupt parties…experience gets my vote!
43. pamela | 08.25.08
It would seem to me that it would be in Hillarys best interest for McCain to win, He probably would not seek another term, but Obama would, so you would have the same fight in 2012. But as him being president. Much more difficult.
44. Matt | 08.25.08
It is Obama’s job to unite the party not Hillary’s. And guess what, we are not uniting!
45. E.J.Palmer | 08.25.08
I really feel sad. Democrats were supposed to be much more forward looking. To vote for republican candidate shows that the divide is real now. I like obama and Hillary , I wished they both were on same ticket . Had Obama put Hillary on ticket it would have been done deal for the elections. Unfortunately world is never how it should be. I sincerely hope every body comes together and solve this and make sure Democrats win the election or else it will be a sad sad end for both Obama and Hillary ,and history will judge both and their followers as selfish minded.
46. KD | 08.25.08
First off, since when is it a requirement to vote for someone who isn’t qualified just because they won the party nomination?? The numbers were just about even. Isn’t that exactly how we got in this mess to begin with (BUSH)?? Second, do the Obama supporters realize how many of his numbers came from Republican voters in order to keep Hillary out?? It’s almost like that fact is being totally ignored! Many of us are tired of people being elected who don’t have a clue about how or what it takes to run this country (BUSH/OBAMA), and Barack’s claim that he won’t play “politics” is completely obsurd, because EVERYONE ELSE in Washington will, and he won’t be able to accomplish anything if he doesn’t even know how to play the system (doesn’t matter if its right or not, its just the way it is).
And just in case many of you have forgotten, the Clinton’s didn’t exactly do a bad job last time around, so I don’t know why there’s all this hatred from the younger Dem party members. Most of you weren’t even old enough to vote, let alone make any meaningful decisions when Bill Clinton was president.
I’ve tried to like Obama, but he just continues to make DUMB mistakes, and its hard to not see him as just a couple steps above BUSH (that’s not good by the way). He’s created a huge fight for the White House, and it wasn’t even necessary. Someone earlier made the comment that Dems who don’t vote for Obama should resign or be booted. Well, I think, as bad as we needed to win this election, your guy should have set his ego aside and taken the guaranteed road to victory (Obama/Clinton ticket), and he would have waltzed right in. But no, yet another stupid mistake on his part because he didn’t want to be “upstaged” by Bill Clinton while in office (his words, not mine).
If anything costs him the election, it will be his arrogance! Me… well, I’m writing in Hillary’s name. Since he didn’t choose her as his running mate, he OBVIOUSLY didn’t feel he needed her supporters, so he shouldn’t miss my vote, RIGHT??
Signed: One of millions of Black voters who will NOT be voting for Obama!
47. Sharon Kirkland | 08.25.08
I voted for Hillary. She lost. I am a true Democrat, and I support 100% Obama now. Those who voted for Hillary and now they say they will vote for McCaine, were NEVER true Democrats. They should not be welcomed in the Democratic Party. We do not even need them. They should switch parties and never come back.
48. GeraldD | 08.25.08
The significant protest will not come during the Democratic Convention, but rather the significant protest will come in early November when those Clinton supporters of us who were spurned and lied to by Barrack will close the curtain, and in one brief moment bring the swift fury of revenge to Senator Obama. November 5th will leave no uncertainty in terms of which of them, Hillary or Barrack, will make history in 4 years. With Barack as a mere footnote to history, Hillary will be able to say “I TOLD YOU SO!”
Hillary Clinton For President in 2012.
49. Alex Aranda | 08.25.08
I can not believe that democrats would vote for McCain because Senator Clinton did not win the Democratic nomination. Do they enjoy the lies of this past administration?
Would they rather have the same old politics that they have had in the past 8 years?
Are we sure these so called Senator Clinton supporters are not Republicans in sheep clothing?
I would not put it pass the republicans to infiltrate the democrats.
Lets be united!!!
50. PA Guy | 08.25.08
The DNC has left both I and millions of other (Ex)Democratic voters hanging like a “CHAD”.
I have to agree with Donna Brazile, that if the “Will of the people” is overturned by Delegates, I will consider leaving the party.
51. B.Moorely | 08.25.08
I wholeheartedly support people choosing - NOT for the “party’s sake” but rather for the country’s sake. It seems to me that if Clinton voters choose McCain out to protest the slight they felt she got in the campaign by media, they have sold our country down the tubes in the name of spite. I am a female. I admire a coalition of women voters. I don’t admire making a protest vote for a candidate that doesn’t represent your views (McCain) as closely as Obama comes to Hillary. Then don’t vote. Stay home. Either use the election process for what it was designed: the people’s voice to elect the best person to run our country - not for payback. No one did this to Hillary. She had her fair share of gaffes in the campaign. And frankly many “analysts” from her own party said it would be the death knell for her to go for VP on the ticket. If OB loses, she can kiss her career goodbye. If he wins, she’s not going to get much play as VP. She’d be better getting a cabinet position. She is one shrewd cookie. You don’t think she negotiated for something before conceding to Obama?
So, do Clinton supporters want to scream one big “up yours” to the country and vote for McCain? Then I will say now, you will prove what has been said several times - if we lose, it is because the Democratic Party has no sense of how to unite. It is why they lose and deserve to. The GOP is a well oiled machine.
52. bill bailey | 08.25.08
“Never mind he is better qualified (more than Bush and possibly even McCain)”
WOW! That’s a resounding endorsement!!
53. Mark | 08.25.08
Bev, so…. what you are telling me is that as a Republican you were actually considering voting for Clinton, a Democrat, why? Last time I checked Republicans HATED the Clintons. If you admire her policies, which are about 95% the same as Obama’s, then what possible logic do you have to vote for McCain, who voted with his party and Bush 95% of the time. Surely you weren’t going to vote for Hillary just because she’s a woman, or against Obama because he’s black. Do you look forward to having your reproductive rights stripped from you by a bunch of rich old men when McCain appoints more conservative judges, as he’s promised to do? Since you were willing to vote for pro-choice Clinton, I assume that’s not an issue for you. Perhaps you are looking forward to watching your children get drafted into (and getting blown apart in) fighting a war with Iran or maybe even Russia. That’s what the pro-draft hot-headed McCain has pretty much guaranteed you. Do you think when he says “there will be more wars” and sings “bomb Iran” that he’s joking? Do you have any concept of what the neocon philosophy of middle east domination entails that McCain embraces? Think before you vote.
55. kristianjl | 08.25.08
People sowing discord in these forums are not democrats… they are republican trolls. The vast majority of democrats have been happy with both Barack and Hillary… overjoyed, in fact… and would fully support - WILL fully support - the nominee.
56. Chris | 08.25.08
Amazed - maybe it’s time to quit using the Supreme Court to establish social policy and law and demand that our elected representatives take the responsibility like the Constitution demands. We’ve relied on the courts to create de-facto law because our elected reps are cowards and cretins. We deserve better. We need to demand better.
57. cafeameric | 08.25.08
Obama had a perfect opportunity to unify the party by selecting Hillary as VP. Instead, he selected Joe “career politician” Biden, negating any hope that Mr. Obama genuinely wanted to bring change.
Mr. Obama’s failure to acknowledge Ms. Clinton’s popularity speaks more about his own insecurity and his domineering wife than it does about Ms. Clinton’s credentials. Am I a bitter Clinton supporter? You bet, and I vote!
My vote won’t go to Mr. Obama, whose candidacy is a triumph of style over substance. His pitiful excuse for a health care plan is based on numbers that have no basis in reality. He’s changed his mind about Iraq and Afghanistan so many times that I doubt even he knows what actions he suggested most recently.
His elitist attitude and condescending tone to anyone who critizes or disagrees with him doesn’t speak well for his ability to deal with international problems. Terrorists and petty dictators aren’t impressed with a leader whose response to their actions is pouting and wounded pride, or accusations of racism. Unlike most of the U.S. media, foreign leaders and heads of terror organizations don’t care if they’re considered politically incorrect.
If Mr. McCain chooses Joe Leiberman, or another pro-choice individual as his running mate, I’ll vote for a Republican for President for the first time in my life. If not, I’ll write in Hillary’s name. She won’t win, but I’ll be able to say I voted my conscience, and didn’t help to elect an inexperienced, arrogant, misogynist who’s guaranteed to make an even worse mess of things than the current administration has.
59. Silicon Valley Man | 08.25.08
I would ask all of the Hillary supporters who plan to vote for McCain how they feel about those who voted for Ralph Nader.
60. Lisa T | 08.25.08
Re: 27. Pamela
Hillary’s legacy would be tarnished if her supporters allowed another 4 years of Republican rule. She would never be able to win a primary again. This new administration and Congress is our best chance to get legislation through that could save many people in this county who have no insurance. This will not happen with MCCAIN and most of the blame will be put on Hillary. Hillary will turn into a Lieberman in the eyes of many.
61. Mark | 08.25.08
Oh yeah, real swift thinking. Go ahead and vote for McCain instead of Obama, or don’t even show up. Way to cut off your nose to spite your face. Then when McCain wins, millions will continue to go without healthcare, the economy will continue to falter, and the world will go on hating us. At least you can say, “Well it serves the Democrats right. Hillary should’ve been on the ticket. Girl power!” The stupidity of Hillary supporters threatening to do this astounds me. Our country is bleeding, and the Republicans sure aren’t going to fix things. We need a Democrat in the Oval Office now more than ever. Grow up!
62. Marissa | 08.25.08
I just don’t understand all the drama surrounding Hillary Clinton’s failed bid for the nomination. As a woman, I would have been equally excited to cast my vote for the first female nominee for president as I am to cast my vote for the first african-american nominee for president. When you get right down to it, many of their policy positions are not that different. Some of their debates were almost comical because their positions were so similar. Why can’t we all just get along and do the right thing for the country? Do we really want another president whose only focus is the richest of the rich?
63. Jorobot | 08.25.08
I understand all the resentment for Obama from the Hillary crowd; the whole process was pretty messed up. But you wouldn’t vote for McCain if you cared about liberal issues. Women’s rights, abortion rights, social programs, fixing health care, the environment…McCain will set us irreversibly back. The anger you feel towards Obama is not worth ushering in four years of Bush III.
64. Stewart Nusbaumer | 08.25.08
This just might be the worse article yet written on this campaign. Come on brain-dead! Hillary is burnt election toast. Can’t you smell? We know you can’t read — polls anyway. Don’t you have anything to write about? Isn’t the Little League World Series going on?
Listen, Hillary’s hard-core holdouts are a fraction of that 18 million! And in the end, if they want to retain abortion rights, they will fly into the voting booth for Obama. It’s a bluff for the “respect” that these poor creatures are desperate for and have now lost in the political arena.
Ariel, thank goodness I’m not your editor.
After reading this junk you’d need some self-respect yourself. Journalism is a calling to inform, not to write fiction.
65. Leslie | 08.25.08
I’m a lifelong democrat, voted democrat straight ticket every election season from local level all the the to the Whitehouse. What I’ve seen this primary is enough to make me question what the Democratic Party stands for. I don’t think they stand for the people anymore, instead they’re standing up for each other, the mighty and the powerful. With right amount of money flowing, you can subvert the will of the people which Obama grandiously exploit. He spent close to a million dollars buying off superdelegates with help from Nancy Pelosi.I left the Democratic Party June 7 after a lengthy conversation with Chairman of DP in my city. I like what PUMA stands for, I applaud them, they’ve earned my respect; ordinary people from all walks of life doing something extraordinary, bigger than themselves. All my friends who left the Democratic Party and now independent voters joined PUMA movement, I will join them too after the convention and offer my service to them. The only way I’d vote democrat this year is Hillary is the official nominee, other than that, McCain will get my vote.
66. FLMom | 08.25.08
The Clintons Need To Stop the Rhetoric Now!
http://www.floodthelines.com/clintonsmuststop/
Obama/Biden 2008…United We Stand, Divided We Fall!
67. Jessie | 08.25.08
Oh whatever…..you say she lost….she didn’t you idiots. She won popular vote (for those of you who don’t know or care what that is it means the majority of the american citizens voted for her). It was ripped from her. She won but these “superdelegates” decided to rip her victory from her and ignore popular vote. Inother words the don’t think our vote is important. Go Republicans!!! I was a democrat but not after that. My own party just told me that my vote doesn’t count so what’s the point in even voting for them? Put Hilary back and I’ll come back too.
68. cafeameric | 08.25.08
Chris wrote:
“After 8 years of Bush/Cheney and facing more of the same with McCain the Democratic party should be able to elect Bozo the Clown with any show of unity”
That would explain why they nominated Obama. I’ve thought all along that DNC’s actions this year closely resembled one of Bozo’s “fair and square” contests.
69. Jennifer | 08.25.08
In this election, it is no longer about choosing the best person for the job…both candidates on both sides have failed to energize the country. It’s about selecting a candidate you can live with for the next 4 years. Unless Hilary steals the nomination (if that can even happen!), McCain has my vote.
70. jack dadny | 08.25.08
Like they have said in earlier blogs, a lot of the democrats that are voting aren’t even democrats. They are either made up of indepdents. You people that criticise clinton supporters should thank your own leader obama for furthering the divide since he decided to vote for the FISA amendments. He screwed his own pooch. Stop trying to shift all of the blame.
71. Mark | 08.25.08
Chris, assuming what you say is true, then your card and your heart are totally out of sync. Change the card to read Republican and vote appropriately. By voting for McCain, you betray every value that Hillary Clinton and the Democratic Party hold dear.
72. Dr. Diego Sausa | 08.25.08
As an independent, I am saddened by the fact that Obama will miss out on becoming the first black president of the United States because he made the big blunder of not choosing Hillary as his vice presidential running mate. With her as his running mate, he would have been formidable as a presidential candidate. That’s a fact. He would have been president had he not made this biggest mistake of his life for not choosing Hillary, and this will bog him as long as he lives.
Dr. Sausa
73. Jessie | 08.25.08
And why does everyone keep saying Obama is black/african american. His mother is white for bleeps sake!!! He’s only half black. He’s not a true black american. Only half.
74. Leah | 08.25.08
I don’t understand why people who would vote for Clinton would vote for McCain in retaliation. That is not educated or reasonable. I guess I care a bit more for the well being of my country and my family and agree to liberal Democratic policies more than I care about useless revenge. I just can’t imagine shooting my own foot that way. I just can’t imagine 4 more years of war, financial ruin, and justice placements that would be even more difficult to turn around if we don’t do it now. I mean that seems unfathomable. What are we 2 year olds?
75. Rcr | 08.25.08
The problem with free thinking people is they have the tendency to act like children, I didn’t get what I want so I’ll make things worsefor everyone and throw a hissy fit. Those of you who voted for HIllary because you know this country needed a change from what we had the last eight years, Obama will provide change. McCain will continue the G.O.P way of destroying our country for the advancement of those with money.
76. Curtis | 08.25.08
Hillary is now playing a game: “How few people can *I* alienate while I help McCain get elected so there won’t be a sitting Democrat POTUS in ‘12 because I’ll be too old to run for two terms starting in ‘16″
The reason Hillary lost is due to her own hubris and the fact that she is a crook of Byzantine proportions. I’d love to see a woman President, but not THAT woman.
If Obama loses, there is NO WAY Hillary gets the nomination in ‘12, because SHE will have sabotaged this election, and she’s not fooling anybody otherwise. I WILL *NEVER* VOTE FOR HER, and the majority of the Democratic Party feels the same way. If that weren’t true, we wouldn’t be having this discussion in the first place.
77. YNN | 08.25.08
I always wonder what an Obama supporter really supports? FISA? The Iraq surge? What?
This guy might not even be eligible for the U.S. Presidency after all! Think for yourself please.
78. Eleanor | 08.25.08
I wish the PUMAS were issue based instead of IDOL based. Remember elections have consequences on the poor, the uninsured, those fighting overseas and women & children across this nation. The PUMAS have tried to turned this election into some sort of childish high school prom king and queen election. I am very disappointed that people could ever say they were a Hillary supporter and turn around and say they will support MCCAIN. All thier children and grandchildren must have great health insurance because if they did not they would NEVER make this choice.
79. Mickey B | 08.25.08
Dear Chris Cameron -
You have to first understand the politics of this race. People who are calling you a hick, a dead-ender, bitter, racist are those people (Republicans) who are playing with your emotions. Check the ads they are showing to break the party. Their only motive is Obama should not be elected (period!!). If you are just going to vote for McCain without thinking about what policy changes Hillary stands for then you are the one who are going to regret the next four years. Your family and kids will have to go through the ordeal based on your choice. Think what Hillary and Obama stand for and then cast your vote for McCain. You are an intelligent person, you can certainly make a wise choice.
If I can heal any of your feelings, I would be happy. I consider you as an intelligent person and not someone who falls for Republican tactics.
80. DGH629 | 08.25.08
A roll call vote is part of the Democratic Party’s own rules. It is not up to Mr. Intohimself(BO) to decide.
81. grace | 08.25.08
I am one of Clinton’s supporters. I will only vote for her. Obama is not even American, his father is Kenyan!! If I’m being forced to vote, I have no chice but to vote for John McCain, at least he is an American.
So please Clinton supportors “VOTE FOR NO ONE BUT HILARY CLINTON” Don’t let Obama fool you. he only talks and he is no American. He got nominated because he got help from Opra Winfrey at the very beginning or no one even know who the heck he really is!!
82. Chris | 08.25.08
BTW, before you all wrap yourselves in your “party of the people” robes take a look a the list of corporations that plunked down $1 million each for the skyboxes at the Denver stadium; Phizer (international drug company), Exel Energy (big oil company)…. The list goes on. I’m sure that these corporations won’t be expecting any favors from the new Democratic administration after the elections…. Ha! What a crock! Both political parties are in the pockets of corporate special interests. Neither care anything about you, the individual citizen. If you think differently then you are truly fools.
83. SA Morgan | 08.25.08
Yup, I truly believe that most of these alleged Hillary supporters who say they will vote for McCain are phonies. They are righ-wingers infesting the internet to create a false image.
Either that - or - these are the stupidest people walking the earth. In terms of real issues, Obama and Clinton are very nearly identical. McCain is on another planet. What rational person could claim that they were supporting Hillary and then vote for McCain? This is not possible.
If they are not phonies posing or mentally deficient then there is only one other possibility and it is not a pleasant one. They are reinforcing the sexist stereoptype that women let emotion over-rule intelligence and common sense. How else could you explain someone claiming to support Hillary and then reject some nearly identical to her in every way that matters (except “plumbing”) and vote for her opposite?? Just for sour grapes?
I hope they are phonies and believe they are as the other possibilities don’t bode well for this society.
84. Webster | 08.25.08
As a ticket-splitter, I view this with a certain detachment.
I think many are right to say that a dislike for Clinton kept Hillary from getting a serious look as VP. But not her — Bill.
85. David in LA | 08.25.08
To Chris in FL | 08.25.08 - How about reclaiming this country too? Not just the Democratic Party? By not falling in line come November, your no vote is a yes vote for McCain. I really do not understand the egocentricities and bitter attitudes now on display over a race that Obama won fair and square. If Obama were to lose over this petty behavior, you must try to at least understand that you would be issuing a minimum 4 year punishment to EVERY American, no matter who they supported, even the Hillarites.
86. PA Guy | 08.25.08
#27
Pamela
The only thing tarnished here is the DNC.
Would I vote for Obama? “I’ll have to think about it” NOT………………………from my cold dead hands……….
Not only am clinging to my guns and religion, but also my right to choose whomever I believe to be the most “QUALIFIED” candidate for this 2008 Presidential Race.
87. Michelle | 08.25.08
Every Obama supporter here is talking about the failed Bush policies, this is true, our country is in serious trouble, but can someone tell me what Obama’s policies are? Probably not, he doesn’t even know. I was a democrat and I am proud to say that I have left the party. This election season has turned into a joke, in other countries people die for their right to vote. The media, dnc and uninformed voters are treating this guy like he is Christ reincarnate, it is not only embarassing it is down right appalling! Have we become such a complacent society that we can be led around by our noses? There is no integrity left in this country anymore, everything, even a presidential election is being turned into a circus! Wake up America!
88. Katrina | 08.25.08
Chris in FL - What your voter ID says means nothing! How many tens of thousands of Republicans switched their voter registrations at the command of Rush Limbaugh’s “Operation Chaos” to get Hillary more votes in the primaries? Their IDs say DEM but they sure as heck aren’t. It’s the ideals you support that make you a Democrat, and just as John McCain stands for none of our ideals, neither does anyone who votes for him.
89. calvin | 08.25.08
At the end of the day, Obama just lack the experience to be President.
Even his own VP Biden says he is not ready to lead.
90. Robert | 08.25.08
Dear Democrats’
At the beginning of the primary season the news covered a story stating that 50% of the regestered voters are independents. They also mentioned we are the one’s that will decide the outcome. We are not happy with either party but, between the three I choose Clinton; why are both parties not addressing us independents. This is very upsetting. I want to here what obama is going to do his first year in office. I am worried about this country and our economy. Even if both parties get their parties together you have upset half the voters by not addressing us.
91. steve | 08.25.08
divide the democrats , elect mccain and in four years , the republicans will have banned voting for those persons with a net worth of less than 10 million dollars or more houses than they can remember in an anti terorist program to prevent the commoners from meddling outside their scope .
then they ( bush and crew )neednt trouble with rigging more elections
92. John | 08.25.08
Are people seriously thinking about voting for McCain instead of Obama because Clinton didn’t make the ticket? That’s the most disgusting thing I’ve ever heard. Those people should be ashamed of themselves. The next President elected will greatly impact the lives of every American, not just selfish people like these. I can’t believe they’d doom their friends and families to “four more years” to prove a point. Enough is enough!
93. GeraldD | 08.25.08
Democrats are making ads supporting McCain.
http://election.newsmax.com/mccain_willvote.html?s=al&promo_code=6875-1
94. Michelle | 08.25.08
Steve, Sorry to tell you success is not a crime but a right, a right that we are all entitled to! After watching this farce of an election season, it may not be a bad idea to require people to pass a test to vote! I don’t think they are afraid of commoners as much as they fear morons!
95. EWard | 08.25.08
Mark
Puma Pac is a grassroots Democratic organization. The founder gave a donation to McCain years ago. In this primary season, she was an earlier supporter of Edwards. The only person that is responsible for this mess is Senator Obama. Your remarks are very similar to ones that I saw over and over again during the primary season. Obama is accountable for his own downfall.
96. David D | 08.25.08
Those of you who say not to vote for McCain because of the Supreme argument, don’t really follow politics or history at all. Like most of you, I am sick of what has happened under Bush. The Nixon era neo-Cons starting with Cheney have to go. McCain has nothing but disdain for Bush regardless of how Obama tries to paint them in bed together. In regards to the Supreme Court, Can anyone say Anthony Kennedy? How did that work out for Regan, the grandfather of the conservative movement. Everyone understands that the Democratic Senate has to ratify the nomination right? I am a registered Democrat and I am voting for McCain. Why, because I don’t like the fact that Obama came out of no where with no experience, and shift positions like the wind. Look up FISA and see how he voted for proof of this!
97. IronCity | 08.25.08
PUMAs are like a Mel Brooks comedy — a couple of hundred aggrieved bloggers with a childlike cat-fetish, suddenly galvanized into fits of disorganized rant-writing and fax-bombing in a Keystone Cops attempt at effective political activism. They spend endless hours on their blog sites — like kids around a campfire — swapping hare-brained conspiracy theories and ululating like the Spartan women at every tinfoil-hat rumor and speculation concerning the blood-drinking, baby-eating Muslim/alien/android who beat their candidate in the primary. Hour after hour, they churn out theatrical, hyperventilating manifestos and proclamations of righteous indignation that would make Ted Kaczynski blush. Although their Web stats barely register on Alexa and they’ve never assembled enough members in one place, physically, to fill up a League Night at a bowling alley, they are convinced that they are an army of millions and the Last Defenders Of Democracy.
And here they are now in Denver, with their signs and their chants, providing the background stage scenery for bored TV pundits…looking for all the world like a prom committee running a car-wash fundraiser.
Tomorrow’s headline: PUMAs PROTEST IN DENVER: A NATION SHRUGS.
98. Greg in Amsterdam | 08.25.08
To hell with Bozo the Clown…a vote for a retarded chimpanzee would be better than electing (excuse me while I vomit) John McCain for President. At least the–excuse me…trying to use politically correct term–”mentally challenged” primate could have a chance of making more forward-thinking decisions than the current resident idiot of the White House.
Regardless of where you stand on Obama vs. Clinton, can we all simply agree that a vote for the Democratic candidate is a much more intelligent check of the box than one for a Bush lackey? Somebody? Anybody?
Has America become so collectively stubborn that we cannot see the forest for the trees? The petty bickering by groups such as PUMA, 18 Million, et. al. reeks of sour grapes (at the least) and at the worst, the bullied geek on the playground who vows avenge over the bully.
The geeks often get the last say, but only when the gather the will to fight the good fight. But that’s where the argument today falls apart. The reasons to wage the “good fight” have been lost somewhere along the way to bettering the path of the nation.
As an American citizen living abroad, it’s painfully obvious that our country is on the fast-tracked road to ruin that we (expats living abroad) often laugh at our countrymen who are too close to the action, so to speak.
Let’s all try to take a breath, do a quick reality check, and boot out the thugs, miscreants, and simpletons who run the country…let’s dig in deep, hold hands (if you will), and simply join in unison in making some of the most profound changes we’ve seen since 1992, and arguably, in the past 45 years or so.
Simply put: A vote for Barack Obama is the best…and only…choice that a reasonable voter can make in November. Delude yourself if you must, but understand that voting otherwise means that the USA most certainly takes a step backward, not forward.
99. Susy | 08.25.08
For those of you who feel the need to bash Clinton supporters, why are you so afraid of us? I’ll suggest it’s because, down deep, you know that the DNC subverted the process and continues to by speaking as though Obama is already the Democratic candidate. Believe us, when we say we know what will happen, but it doesn’t make the way it happened right. I have no problem accepting that the candidate of my choice didn’t win, when the process has been a fair one. So, with that said, instead of criticizing all of us, why don’t you stand up for stopping Howard Dean and the DNC. If we don’t let them know that we’re not going to stand still for this absurd behavior, all of you who are choosing to support this unvetted, unexperienced man, will find yourselves in this same position one day, and you will be equally dismayed that no one cared about truth, or integrity, only winning even it if it is done unfairly.
100. Gary H | 08.25.08
Wow! I see a lot of name calling and slurs on this thread. but most of them come from the supposed Hillary Clinton supporters. I would really like to see one time that Bharack Obamaor anyone on his campaign has called anyone “hick, a dead-ender, bitter, racist.” But I’ve sure heard it fom the Clinton supporters. Many of the Pro-Obama supporters have been nasty indeed. But let’s look at the difference between bloggers and the candidate. One of the earlier postings said that as Democrats we are free thinkers and not robots, that we don’t all fall in line behind a candidate. Belive me that is the weakness of the Democratic Party. We have never been a unified front and the Republican party counts on it. And election after election we fall right into it.
101. R.P. Kraus | 08.25.08
Are the Hillary Clinton supporters who are choosing not to support Barack Obama really Democrats or are they just independent voters who are choosing to exercise their power to control the swing vote, despite their party affiliation (cutting your nose off to spite your face). It’s not like there’s a goat to give up here, we’re talking about supporting the Democratic Party’s choice for the President of the United States.
I thought as Democrats, we all want to change business as usual in Washington, and get away from the Bush Party Politics way of conducting ourselves at home and around the world.
Please rethink your motives and the consequences of your actions at this very important time in our history.
Hillary Clinton supporters have the opportunity to choose courage over cowardliness in their choice for President come November. Otherwise, You are the ones who are dividing our party and providing fuel for the Republicans to run their disrespectful, dishonest and negative campaign all the way to the White House…..Again!
You can be bigger and better than your thinking is allowing you to be, and make the right decision in voting for Obama for President
At this point in time….. die hard Hillary supporters, you can be the Winners we would all be proud to know, and get in line with the rest of us, or demonstrate your loosing attitude as a Looser, by jumping to the other side because you didn’t get what you want, and would rather us all suffer another four to eight years of out control Republican rule.
Being a Winner or Looser…….It’s a choice we all have to make in our lives
Please make the Right choice, for all our sakes
102. tlatexaspuma | 08.25.08
In order to stop the corruption of DNC party officials, Senator Obama campaign, and super delegates we have to tear the party down so be it. The corrpution created the PUMA movement. Our 30 min video premierd last night in Denver and will be completed and aired before the election on Nov 4th.
http://wewillnotbesilenced2008.com/video/index.htm
Super delegates votes were bought: Money Changes Everything :: Superdelegates Are For Sale
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLPoV4diMjk
Bought and Paid For!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a593lfawFBU
We have nothing to lose because many peoples vote didn’t count this year either because of money hungry super delegates, voter fraud, corrupt caucuses, RBC Rules & Bylaws Meeting. Our states spent millions of dollars on elections. My vote deserves to be counted. I will vote in protest for John McCain. Give the Democratic party 4 years to clean its act up.
103. Carole | 08.25.08
Obama only got the delegate numbers because of fraud in the caucus states. He also has a large group of “thugs” to intimidate Hillary supporters. It is just as racist to vote for someone because of his color as it is to vote against him because of skin color. I will not vote for him because of his plans (they scare me), Wright, Ayers, Auchi, Dean, Pelosi, Brazile, the corrupt rules committee of the DNC, Madonna, Michelle, obots, Reid, Chris Matthews, MSM, the Late Term Abortion stance, and his um.um,um way of speaking without his teleprompter. He and Biden both steal speeches from others and rate an “F” in hones
104. e.a. davis | 08.25.08
I will not vote for obama no matter what hillary says. obama is all talk and no substance. also he lives in an ill-gotten mansion, his half-brother in a shack has corrupt friends, one went to jail, one bombed america and one preaches hate. wake up america, this man has no values.
105. Kerri | 08.25.08
Hillary may be our hero, she is not our God.
It doesn’t matter what she says or does, other than possibly hurting our feelings, PUMA’s will never vote for Obama. So she can speak every minute from now until November praising this man, again, it won’t matter.
Hillary did not MAKE PUMA, she does not have anything to do with us and, as we’ve been saying all along, we own our votes. Sorry to break it to you.
Stop placing all the responsibility for the DNC selecting a sure-to-fail candidate upon the shoulders of Hillary. Had they not corrupted the process she would be the nominee and there wouldn’t be these problems. As it is, BO will never become POTUS. Deal with it.
106. lola123 | 08.25.08
Was a democrat.
Now an independent will vote for McCain.
Obamamites you can “think” PUMA’s are GOP all you like. Figure out come election day where half the democratic party votes went.
We went where elections aren’t rigged. We went where candidates are “elected
not selected”
The democratic party divided itself. REAL Democrats are going elsewhere.
107. suef | 08.25.08
What really makes me wonder, as I read through these posts. is how divisive the Obama camps remains.
Seems to me if I were courting 9 million voters, I’d be trying to figure out what to do to win them over. This continued alienation has me baffled.
Although I do believe, to quote Pat Benatar, “It’s a little too little, it’s a little too late” because I cannot imagine ANYTHING that the DNC or the Obama campaign could do now that would repair the chasm in this party.
And to the writer up at the top, I for one happily left the Democratic Party on May 31st and re-registered as an Independent. When the democratic party recognizes the basic tenant of democracy- one person-one vote, I will re-join.
Until then, good riddance and rain McCain in November!!
108. zeke | 08.25.08
Borack Obama.
The blind leading the blind.
check out obamacrimes.com the man isn’t even a US citizens.
The blind leading the blind. They have no minds of their own.
Go PUMA’s
109. lola123 | 08.25.08
So you think the PUMA’s are GOP?
HMMMMM…. What will you think come election day when the democrat voter count turns out to be 25% of what it usually is?
Goooooooo PUMAAAAAAAAAAASSSSSSSSSSS.
110. fooj | 08.25.08
I can’t help but notice how “nasty” and “divisive” some of these comments are. My question is “Why is all the ugliness always coming from the Obama camp?” NEVERMIND. You don’t need a doctorate to figure it out.
What are you people afraid of?
TRUTH is our most powerful weapon!
PUMA.
111. jeff in California | 08.25.08
PUMA’S are Rove dupes not Democrats. McCain stands for everything the Democratic Party opposes. If they can vote for McCain out of spite they are like spoiled brats who didn’tget their way. What is shocking is that McCain presumes that intelligent women can be so bitter about Clinton’s loss of the primary that they are willing to vote against their own personal interests. Even if they aren’t enthralled with Obama and feel cheated by the bizarre primary process, how can these women support a man who will overturn Roe v. Wade?, a man who has demonstrated his contempt for women through his coarse remarks even to his own wife? a man who promises to send their sons into more illegal wars? a man who has brought in Karl Rove the Cheney/Bush attack dog,, Ralph Reed the corrupt Christian Coalition leader and Phil Gramm of Texas/Enron fame to run his campaign?? Get real, recognize PUMA as a bunch of Rove stooges and move on -only Republicans could stomach a vote for McCain/Bush. It is simply the worst possible formula for the advancement of women’s causes.
112. Pauline | 08.25.08
It seems the women of America are about to throw the chances for the Dems to win under the bus, and are prepared to cut off their noses just to spite their faces.
America’ women do not deserve Obama or a chance to better their position. They deserve the government they are about to get, and when it occurs they should accept that it was their own spitefulness that was responsible for the deaths of their own sons and men-folk when the McSames send them off to be killed in useless foreign wars. When America’s economy goes further down the gurgler and they lose their houses to bank foreclosures due to the breadwinner being killed, they can appropriately blame themselves.
I wonder how they will feel when a few years later American tourists will be visiting the countries of the people who had killed their sons like what is happening in Vietnam today. How many American families have been unnecessarily impoverished by the loss of their breadwinner in that pointless war?
They should realize that by voting for McSame they will be not only be voting for the same result, but this time they will also be voting to join the impoverished 3rd world when their nation gets further indebted to China by the Repubs having to borrow even more money to conduct their silly wars, which will cause the value of the US dollar to go further down the drain.
The only thing that never alters is human stupidity driven by spite.
113. jeleanoro | 08.25.08
These Obama supporters are so misinformed, I almost feel sorry for them. Your guy did not win anything…he never got enough votes…Hillary had more of the popular vote…that means, quite simply, that there are more of us than you! This primary was the most fraudulant than any I’ve ever seen, and I’ve been a democrat for 40 years. That’s WHY there are ‘PUMA’s’ and ‘Democrats for McCain’, and that’s WHY we will never vote for Obama…we never thought he was qualified and still don’t.
114. bmw60 | 08.25.08
#9 Mark……. YOU ARE A LIAR!!!
When the democratic party once again is democratic, I will rejoin!!!
WE WILL NOT FORGET IN NOVEMBER…. NO MATTER WHAT THE RHETORIC!!!
GO PUMAS!!
115. Constance | 08.25.08
Barack Obama is a good man. Hillary Clinton is a good woman. John McCain is a good man. However, there are immense differences in how they will run the country. Experience means nothing if your experience is about driving the company into the ground.
John McCain and George Bush don’t think it’s a problem the Executive Branch no longer is checked and balanced by the Judicial system or Legislature. We’ve squandered lives on the wrong war, a false war for oil, and have lost track of Osama Bin Laden. Our economy is in the tank. Terrorism has been stirred up by American aggression. The policies of George Bush have placed us in a near TRILLION DOLLAR DEFICIT. Why continue that?
Barack and Hillary share values and policies on health care, helping the middle class, and on protecting American families over corporations.
If you like Hillary Clinton, you will like Barack Obama. Being right (correct), kind and honest are better traits than experience (ESPECIALLY for Commander in Chief). In Europe and the Middle East, Senator Obama proved that leaders will respect America and follow our lead again. George Bush has lost America’s clout. Let’s all get behind Obama and Biden. Let’s get this country back on track.
116. bmw60 | 08.25.08
At first I joined PUMA Pac, because I thought there was a chance for Hillary, but now with the anger that Obama’s followers (a.k.a. OBOTS) and their not being inclusive, but combative… I know I made the right choice. You are not conciliatory, nor are you inclusive. You have not reached out to Hillary voters and convinced us of anything. You continue to throw barbs and arrows in our direction.
I will never vote for Obama if that what HE engenders in his followers.
Thank You for showing me what HE is!!! … His followers are like “apples that don’t fall far from the tree.” THUGS!!!
117. EWard | 08.25.08
With all due respect, Senator Clinton has the country’s interests at heart and Senator Obama does not. Obama’s decision to run after being in the Senate for 143 days shows he is self-serving. “With experience comes the knowledge of what works and what does not work. With experience comes the wisdom of not only recognizing your strengths, but your weaknesses.” PAGuy
Since June 3rd, Senator Obama has made one gaffe after another. He is distrusted by the voters because he fails to take a firm stance on many issues. He has changed positions on FISA, Iraq, public financing, oil drilling and so on. In addition, without a teleprompter, he is at a loss for words.
Case in point - Saddleback Forum - It is above his pay grade to explain when life begins. He’s right in one respect. The office of the Presidency is way above his pay grade.
118. Tamara | 08.25.08
Obama has not even proven he is a US citizen.
Long-time Democrat lawyer Phil Berg has sued to stop the nomination until he does.
Rove and McCain can hardly wait to hit him with the citizenship issue, and the DNC does nothing about it?
The US has 300 million citizens and they can’t even find one to run for pres?
119. Tamara | 08.25.08
Sorry the link is http://www.waronfreedom.org/dox/BONoUsCitizen.htm (without the period at the end)
120. IronCity | 08.25.08
Tamara, as long as you believe crackpot right-wing Web sites and a 9/11 Truther with a long history of filing ridiculous court cases for publicity, you will continue to be a prisoner of your own stupidity.
And that’s a shame, because it seems like a very cramped cell.
121. Jennifer | 08.25.08
PUMAs and other likeminded groups are setting back the women’s movement by decades… by providing right wingers with the ammunition that proves that women are too emotional, too irrational, too illogical to be put in charge.
You’d rather vote Republican than accept that HC lost in a fair, democratic process? Come on!
You’re not on any moral high road here - you completely mired in mud. But stick to your guns. You, or your children or grandchildren, will need them in Iraq.
122. Pauline | 08.25.08
Obama is not an American? He was born in Hawaii & last I heard is Hawaii is an American state.
McCain on the other hand was born in Panama — which is NOT an American state and his citizenship status has come under question. Only a “natural-born citizen” can hold the nation’s highest office, and to date, no American taking the presidential oath has ever had an official birthplace outside the 50 states.
To prevent foreigners from ever becoming commander in chief, John Jay suggested to George Washington that the Constitution needed to “declare expressly” that only a natural-born citizen could be president, so challenging the legality of Obama’s birthright credentials could well backfire negatively for McCain, because not only was Obama born on American soil, his mother’s side were Americans for many generations, whereas McCain’s birth status could still be questionable in a court of law.
123. Nonot | 08.26.08
I wonder why Hillary is being blamed for the so-called disunity among the Democrats. Wasn’t Barrack Obama who clinched the Democratic presidential nomination? Thus, logic dictates it’s his responsibility to unite the Democrats, not Hillary’s.
People did not expect Al Gore to unite the American nation after he lost to Goerge Bush, did they?
124. Arlene | 08.26.08
Only Hillary and Barack support women’s issues. John McCain is against women’s reproductive rights including birth control and family planning, he is against equal wages for similar work, and he is for continuing the Bush favoritism for the wealthy and big oil. Although I voted for Hillary in the primary, this November I must vote for Obama/Biden as they offer the best alternative to the nasty McCain campaign that even tries to use Hillary as a wedge against women. Now that is offensive in more ways than one.
125. Arlene | 08.26.08
The truth about Barack’s birth certificate, response to Tamara’s racist and stupid accusation.
——————————————————————————–
Lie:
Obama Is Not a Natural Born Citizen
Truth:
Senator Obama was born in Hawaii in 1961, after it became a state on August 21st, 1959. Obama became a citizen at birth under the first section of the 14th Amendment
“All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.”
Copy of the official State of Hawaii birth certificate for Barack Obama is posted on line and has been examined by both political parties.
126. cafeameric | 08.26.08
Jennifer asked:
“You’d rather vote Republican than accept that HC lost in a fair, democratic process?”
No, I’d rather vote Republican than vote for a self agrandizing incompetent to be the leader of the free world. I don’t know what Obama stands for (other than standing for himself) because he changes his position so often, or gives on vague answers to questions about his platform. He has little or no political experience outside of the Chicago machine; the idea of putting this country into his greedy but inexperienced hands is even more frightening than 4 more years of Republicans in the oval office.
128. Bob | 08.26.08
My God… you all are such idiots. Cut off your nose to spite your face much? Can you not see when you’re being used? McCain’s entire platform is two things 1) I’m a POW and 2) I’m not Obama. That’s it. Why? Because if he actually ran on the issues, you all would notice he’s just Bush #3. Get over yourselves and think of the children who will have to live under a conservative supreme court, with no protected land or animals and will be drafted into World War III when McCain opts to piss off China, Russia, North Korea and/or Iran. Four more years of neocon crap is more than I can stand.
Do you realize how ridiculous you all sound? It’s like after 2000 when Gore lost and democrats made idiots out of themselves running around screaming “Not my president!” He won, you lost. End of story. No matter how many times you want to scream fraud or cheat or whatever you lost. Hillary might be Secretary of State or Attorney General or anything else, but it won’t happen if Obama loses. And as for this Hillary in ‘12 BS - yea, like that’ll happen. All you’ll get is the reverse of PUMA - millions of Obama voters who refuse to cooperate because of this. And I look forward to that only because you hypocrites will all start bitching and moaning about how sexist it is not to support the nominee.
129. True Democrat | 08.26.08
What the “Petty Unique Monkey A***” do not understand, she lost on her own! No ones fault but hers!
When will you stand up for responsibility? Barack got more votes than Hillary, now if you clowns really think that we the millions that voted supported and sent money to the Obama campaign, really think that we will fall for Hillary in 12 if and thats a big if he does not win? You are stupid!
So I guess you can say that the Republicans dream of being in the White House for another 8 years will be at hand. Because I will never forgive her for destroying the democratic party because of ego and being petty and down right stupid!
130. Laurie Hester | 08.26.08
“Get over it”. What Obama supporters don’t realize is that NO candidate automatically gets all the votes if she/he wins the nomination. That is WHY it is so important to choose a candidate who has the support of the whole party. It is NOT Hillary’s responsibility to bring her supporters into the party; it is up to OBAMA. Fact is, he is NOT a strong enough candidate to win over women who care about certain issues he is not strong on. He is NOT a strong enough candidate to win over the white blue collar voters who supported Hillary but tend towards voting republican as in the last couple elections. Hillary cannot deliver these voters; Obama must provide some substance (and not insulting them will help) that will make them *want* to vote for him. Until/unless he does so, he will continue to bleed votes to McCain.
It is typical of the misogyny in this campaign that Obama’s supporters blame the woman for his failings. Obama may have won the nomination, but he is incapable of uniting the party, incapable of attracting the swing voters and he has chosen a VP who has a 34% rating from NARAL, and that, in combination with his own shaky pro-choice position, has sealed his fate with feminists.
Your candidate may have won the nomination, but voters are NEVER obliged to vote for their party’s nominee. The nominee has to earn those votes. Unfortunately, you supported a flawed nominee who cannot unite the party; the blame lies with you, not with Hillary’s supporters.
131. Mike Martz | 08.26.08
Reminds me of the ex-Packer fans now sporting Brett Favre Jets jerseys. And the lesser known Miami Dolphin Chad Pennington from New York crowd.
132. jerry rubin | 08.26.08
I wonder two things:
1). Are they really Democratic supporters or Republican operative to shake up the media?
2). If they are true Democratic or Independent voters for Sen. HRC, how will they truly feel with Social Security going to the Wall Street crowd? How will they feel about women’s rights being curtailed for years…to come once the Supreme Court is changed for generations? How will they feel when their sons, husbands, relatives, etc are going to be drafted to areas of the World that Sen. McCain doesn’t like as he shoots from the hip? How will they feel when they can’t make ends meet? How will they feel when food prices, car innovation, energy policies are moved in the same direction as the last 8 years?
Think about it and I suggest, their anger now will change by Nov 4th when they really think about the realities.
133. B.Moorely | 08.26.08
#13 Hardworkingwhiteperson
Do you mean “HardworkingwhiteRacist”? Go away you disgusting person.
134. Patches | 08.27.08
I will put Country before Party. Senator Obama is NOT qualified. Has questionable ties to Rezko, Ayers, and Wright, to name a few. Flip-flops are every issue, so no one knows what he could do next. Is arrogant, self-serving, and can’t put two words together without a teleprompter. Why would I, or anyone with a grain of sense, vote for this man? His supporters are rude beyond belief. And, don’t try to throw woman’s issues, such Roe vs. Wade, as a selling point. If this would have been overturned, it would have been during Bush’s term. It was not and it would take a lot for it to be overturned. And, just because we do not support Senator Obama, does not make us Republicans. But, for one day in November, we will be Democrats voting for a Republican, Senator McCain. Country before Party. If Senator Clinton had been the nominee, then we would be Democrats voting for a Democrat. But, Obama is just not qualified or suitable to be the most powerful man in the World. Look what happened with GWB. We can’t afford to repeat that disaster. Senator McCain, who has a wealth of experience and is extremely qualified, will get my vote. Not Senator Obama. Period.
135. 1sttimer | 08.29.08
The enemy of our enemy is our friend: Hillary was forced to stay out. Her own party was against her since the beginning. So, for the 1st time my vote will be republican. Sorry, but it is the only way to bring Democrats to reason.
136. Tim | 09.06.08
@1sttimer: Hillary was not forced to stay out. Obama won the nomination fairly according to the rules of the party. Just get over it already. It doesn’t matter how much “experience” McCain has. His policy positions are opposite of Hillary’s. Any true Hillary supporter would obey her wishes and vote for Obama. A vote for McCain is going to bring us 4 more years of disaster. If McCain wins, Hillary and her supporters will be blamed, and she won’t be able to win in 2012 if you believe she’ll even run again.
137. mark 5.56 | 09.07.08
holy hypocrisy batman! Obama thinks that women are going to vote for him because Hillary is a woman, what an insult to all women, Obama should be ashamed
138. dwp | 06.22.09
how’s o’bush’s 3rd term working out for ya?
We warned you. You didn’t listen. Too steeeped in teh kool-aid coma.
Now suffer through the next 3 1/2 years. Too bad those with insight, intelligence, who researched your candidate, have to suffer this one term wonder’s comntinuation of bush’s and obama’s own disasterous policies, right along with you.
You’ll be paying for this misatke one looooooooong time too. I’m old. I’ll be dead. And, you’ll still be paying.
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1. Eddie Zalez | 08.25.08
It is beginning to look like Obama may loose the general election thanks to his own party and the Clintons. Never mind he is better qualified (more than Bush and possibly even McCain), played by the rules and outsmarted the old guards who believe they own the Democratic Party. Of course, McCain and the G.O.P., and the media are having a great time playing off this. The one thing the G.O.P. has learned better than anybody is how to divide and conquer by using character assassination with the support of the Democrats.
The Clintons, even Joe Biden, provided all the ammunition as on cue during the early debates. They should have known that many things they said would be recorded and used against any eventual Democratic candidate. The one thing Obama could be charged with is in being naïve to think the country and the media were ready to change for a higher level of civility.
The sad thing is that the real issues affecting our country are not being considered; therefore, we will have four more years of record deficits and unemployment and continue to push our country off the cliff while the whole world is watching. Nothing is truer than “people get the government they deserve.”