Obama Secures the Presidency
Barack Obama has won a convincing victory in the Presidential Race, ensuring that as of January 2009, he will become the 44th President of the United States.
Obama made history by winning an unlikely primary race against Hillary Clinton, but has continued his significant path to glory by becoming the first african american to secure the most powerful job in the world.
Joe Biden will be the next Vice President of the United States.
President elect Barack Obama is expected to give a victory speech shortly in his home state of Chicago.
Barack Obama is the Presumptive Nominee
National media are reporting that Barack Obama is the presumptive Presidential nominee for the Democratic Party.
After a race beginning in December 2006, Obama appears to have stared down the Clinton machine to clinch the nomination and become the first black man to run for Presdident.
Clinton Close to Conceding
Hillary Clinton is close to conceding the nomination to Barack Obama, according to highly placed sources.
And on NBC Today show, Terry McAuliffe said that when Barack Obama has the majority of delegates "...Hillary Clinton will congratulate him and call him the nominee."
This may come quicker than expected, with Superdelegates lining up to back Obama and give him enough delegates to clinch the nomination.
This is despite Clinton's win in Puerto Rico on Sunday, and her statements there that she would be continuing in the race.
Hillary's continual refusal to withdraw from the race despite being well behind Obama on the delegate count, has become a major negative for Clinton and her reputation.
If Hillary were to concede today or very soon, it would go a long way to healing the differences between the Obama and Clinton camps, and give Obama a clear run at McCain in the fall.
The next major question will be, is Hillary a chance to secure the VP spot from Obama?
Obama is the New Goog Dude
Catchy headline? Perhaps, but apparently its true.
Check out the following link www.goog.com
I wonder if the guys who own the goog website have done this, or the Obama team have bought the site. Im thinking the former.
Yes, Obama is a goog dude.
John Edwards Endorsement Of Barack Obama
John Edwards endorses Barack Obama for the Democratic Nomination for President in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Barack Obama with John Edwards
Barack Obama speaks in Grand Rapids, Michigan with John Edwards. In yet another major blow for Hillary Clinton, the former Vice Presidential candidate, John Edwards has endorsed Barack Obama for the Presidency.
Obama Hits the Lead in Superdelegates
Barack Obama has hit the lead in superdelegates according to Associated Press, after he picked up more support from delegates from Utah, Ohio and Arizona, and two from the Virgin Islands. The latter two will be a blow for Clinton, as they were previously supporting her.
Obama picked up 9 endorsements on Friday, which has put him at 276 to 271.5 according to Associated Press. Other news organisations have Obama only a few delegates behind Clinton in their counts.
As the next week progresses, expect to see even more pledging for Obama. As it becomes more and more likely that he will secure the nomination, superdelegates wont want to be left behind in this race. They will want to pick a winner, and holding out any longer will not be of any benefit to them.
Since Obama's win in North Carolina last week, and ultra close result in Indiana, Obama has secured an extra 21 superdelegates to Clinton's 2. That is a massive result for Obama.
The next week will be crucial for Clinton - expect to see more and more national Democratic leaders calling for her to throw in the towel. Have no doubt, there will be some serious discussions behind the scenes to stitch up something for Clinton.
While Clinton has said that she will continue until June 3, we are still predicting here that she will withdraw before then. Stay tuned.
It's Nearly Over for Clinton
After Barack Obama's resounding win in North Carolina and a very close result in Indiana, the media pack and close advisors to Hillary Clinton are urging her to pull out of the race, for the sake of the Democratic Party.
The media have now started to take the view that Hillary cant win the nominaation, with Obama surging ahead with pledged delegates, and more superdelegates by the day.
And close advisors and supporters of Hillary Clinton, George McGovern and Dianne Feinstein have both told her that she should quit. McGovern, the Democratic nominee in 1972, said "there comes a time, even in a good vigorous campaign, that you have to start thinking about the general election. Barack seems to have an insurmountable lead."
In a further blow, it has been revealed that over the last month, Hillary lent her own campaign another $6.4 million, bringing her total of lent funds this year to over $12 million.
Hillary appears to want to continue, but over the next few days it will become clear that she has few supporters left in the senior ranks of the Democrats.
Its just a hunch, but we may be seeing an announcement from the Clinton campaign very shortly.
Obama Cleans up In N.C, Close in Indiana
Barack Obama has tonight won the North Carolina Primary convincingly, beating Hillary Clinton by a margin of around 65% to 33%. If those figures stand up as the evening progresses, it will be a crushing blow to the Clinton campaign, who would have hoped to cut into Obama's lead in that state.
Indiana is tight, with early results showing a 55% to 45% split for Clinton. While CBS are calling the Hoosier State for Clinton, those numbers may narrow as the night progresses, particularly with results from areas like Marion County which is heading heavily for Obama.
The end result across both states will actually not lead to any pledged delegate gain for the Clinton campaign. 72 Pledged delegates are up for grabs in Indiana - the best that the Clinton camp could achieve from tonight would be a 4 or 5 vote increase.
However, that gain would easily be wiped out by the North Carolina result for Obama.
The only possible spin from the Hillary Clinton campaign will be that a win in Indiana is still a win, regardless of whether it actually leads to an increase in delegates.
Unfortunately, the massive result in North Carolina for Obama will likely be overlooked.
Clinton wins - But is it enough?
Its a big surprise of course - Hillary Clinton has won in Pennsylvania. Ok, not really - its no different to what we have been expecting for the last 18 months.
Moving on - what does it mean? Tomorrow we will see the real coverage, the real questions and the reactions of the superdelegates.
At best, Clinton's win is anywhere from 4 to 10 points. That latter result would be just on the cusp of what some pundits say she needed to stay in the game.
But the real results mean that the delegate lead wont be materially affected. The popular vote lead will still substantially be with Obama. Lets not forget, just weeks ago, Clinton's lead in Pennsylvania was significant - much more than today's result. The momentum, is actually with Obama.
However, make no mistake, Hillary Clinton will continue in this race. She will take it all the way to the convention if she has to.
Remember, this is about Hillary, this is truly her one shot at the title.
But in the end, so far, Hillary is still behind - well behind. She needs now to secure a massive majority of the remaining superdelegates, and that is a big ask.
Early Exits - Too Close to Call
In good signs for Barack Obama, the early exit polls have suggested that the race in Pennsylvania is too close to call.
The first exit poll suggested that Clinton had the lead, but only by a razor thin margin of 52%-48%. Early exit polls tend to give Obama a boost, but even so, even a 55-45 split should be enough for Obama.
Only weeks ago, Clinton had a substantial lead in Pennsylvania. Obama has steadily eroded that margin.
Up to half of the 4 million registered Democrats in Pennsylvania were predicted to have cast their ballot today, with long lines stretching from many polling stations.
When will Hillary Get Out of the Kitchen?
Hillary is up to bat in Pennsylvania - but will she strike out today, and if not, when will she say that it's time for her stop her campaign?
As Clinton has said in her latest 3am ad, if you cant stand the heat, get out of the kitchen. But its clear that Hillary can stand the heat. She is damn tough.
But can she stand to damage the chances of the Democrats to win the White House come November, and go down in history as the ultimate spoiler? That's the heat she needs to worry about.
Obama is in front in the pledged delegates, the popular vote and is closing in on Clinton's superdelegate lead.
And crucially, Obama in most polls leads Clinton in the match up with John McCain.
So will she pull the pin after today? Its doubtful.
If we factor in that Clinton is likely to win the Pennsylvania primary today, then we can expect that the spin from her campaign is that she is "back on track." No doubt, it will be the same line as when she secured a surprise win in New Hampshire.
Clinton will also again run the spin that only she is able to carry the swing states, and that only she is the candidate who has the best chance of beating McCain come Novemeber.
But spin can only take her campaign so far. If she cant secure enough delegate support, then what option does she have? She obviously cant win, so why continue?
We can only assume that the Clinton team are hoping that many of the undeclared superdelegates will fall her way. Or, in a more sinister possibility, Hillary may be waiting to see if Obama will stumble. And if we know anything about the Clinton team, they may be working to contribute to that outcome.
While today is important, keep a close eye on the media reporting, in addition to the reaction of senior Democrats tomorrow.
As for Clinton, she is still playing "wait and see". But there is only so long before that strategy would become terribly damaging to the Clinton reputation. The problem is, does she care?
Game On for Obama and Clinton
In less that 24 hours we will know the result of the crucial Pennsylvania primary.
The wait has been the longest since the voting season began, and it has been nothing if not eventful.
From the Rev. Wright saga, to dodging bullets on the Bosnian tarmac, it has been back and forth between Obama and Clinton for the last month. (And in the meantime, John McCain has kept his head down.)
And in the last few days, the race has become particulary nasty. Starting with that ABC debate (can we call it that? or was it a reality tv show?), and ending with yet another negative 3am ad from Clinton. Yet another one from the Republican playbook.
But Obama has a convincing lead in the popular vote so far - a lead that is unlikely that Clinton will catch. He also leads the pledged delegate vote, and nothing short of a miracle would see Clinton overtake him.
Hillary does however lead in the superdelegate stakes, but only just. Obama has been steadily eroding her lead, and by this rate will overtake her come the convention.
By all reports, Clinton will win in Pennsylvania - but it may not be enough for her to avoid the calls for her to pull out of the race. If this race continues until the Democratic Convention, John McCain can sit back while the internal Democrat fighting does his job for him.
Obama Everywhere in Pennsylvania
Another great youtube clip brought to you by the Obama team. Barack Obama has been everywhere in Pennslyvania.
What will the Pundits say about a Hillary Win?
What spin can we expect from the media following a Clinton win in Pennsylvania? Probably about the same we got when she won in Texas (sort of), and Ohio. And then before that, in Massachusetts.
And that is, "its a comeback for Clinton and she is still in the race." I'm sorry? Say that again please?
Only a few months ago, Barack Obama was well behind in the national polls. On Super Tuesday, Hillary Clinton was expected to wipe the floor with Obama. It didn't happen.
In Massachusetts on super Tuesday, Clinton had led with double figures in the long lead in to the primary. Obama secured Kennedy's endorsement the week before the vote. The media reaction when Clinton still won the state? Kennedy's endorsement wasn't worth as much as it was thought and Clinton had prevailed.
This of course flew in the face of the fact that Obama has gained on Clinton, so significantly that his vote in Massachusetts ended up in the 40's - much greater than was predicted.
Then we had Texas and Ohio. In Texas, Clinton was expected to benefit from the large Latino community, and in fact had led consistently in the polls until a couple of weeks before the vote. She won on the day, just, with a subsequent final figure showing that Obama had in fact secured more delegates. Go figure.
Yet the spin continued. Another victory for Clinton.
But perhaps the most remarkable was Ohio. Barack Obama was never expected to win there. He didn't lead in the polls - in fact for months he was way behind. The best he could do was a few days before, when he came very close, before those negative 3am ads. Clinton prevailed, but only by 54 to 44 - a 5 point split.
The spin from the pundits? You got it, Clinton scores a remarkable victory. Not only that, they repeatedly ran with the line that she put out, that only she could carry the swing states. Ahem, umm, what happened to the swing state of Missouri? Oh yes, Obama won that one.
I'm not sure what part of the polls the media don't seem to understand. In states where Obama doesn't win, but increases his proportion of the vote against his historical poll data, the result can only be regarded as a victory for him, and not Clinton.
Victory in politics is not always secured by just recording a pure numbers win.
And thus we await what the pundits will say tomorrow - when Clinton will likely win, albeit with a much smaller margin than was predicted just weeks ago.
Its probable we will hear the same - "welcome back Hillary. How long can this campaign go on?"
And if that is the case, no doubt we wont be hearing about Obama's solid popular vote lead, his substantial lead in the pledged delegate stakes, and his moving within 24 votes of Clinton in the superdelegate race.
Yes, it's sometimes all about spin - not reality. I think the media just like the contest. After all, for them, this is the general election.
Michael Moore, Superdelegate Go for Obama
Activist and documentary filmmaker Michael Moore has today endorsed Barack Obama for President, taking a swipe at Hillary Clinton in the process saying her "actions and words...have gone from being merely disappointing to downright disgusting."
On Moore's website, he said that the final straw was the ABC debate last week. "I've watched Senator Clinton and her husband play this game of appealing to the worst side of white people, but last Wednesday, when she hurled the name "Farrakhan" out of nowhere, well that's when the silly season came to an early end for me. She said the "F" word to scare white people, pure and simple." Moore said in his statement.
"Of course, Obama has no connection to Farrakhan. But, according to Senator Clinton, Obama's pastor does -- AND the "church bulletin" once included a Los Angeles Times op-ed from some guy with Hamas! No, not the church bulletin!"
Moore says that although he cant vote in Michigan, the voters of Pennsylvania have a chance to "set things right. It has not had a moment to shine like this since 1787 when our Constitution was written there. In that Constitution, they wrote that a black man or woman was only "three fifths" human. On Tuesday, the good people of Pennsylvania have a chance for redemption.
And in yet another blow to the Clinton campaign, superdelegate from Ohio Enid Goubeaux has today also endorsed Obama ahead of Clinton. In the superdelegate race, Obama is catching Clinton, trailing by only 24 votes, 238 to 262.
Obama Cleans up - Clinton in the Red
Questions will be raised over the viability of Hillary Clinton's campaign, after latest returns show her account is in the red by over $1million. In stark contrast, Barack Obama is cleaning up in the fundraising stakes, pulling in over $41 million in March, leaving him with $42 million to spend in his campaign to be President.
Clinton raised a comparatively modest $20 million in March, but only had 9 million available to spend, with debts of $10.3 million.
Of Obama's $51 million, $9 million has been allocated for use in the general election only.
Obama has so far raised $235 million, much of it from grass roots sources. Over $4.6 million of Obama's fundraising in March came from California, with $3.2 million coming out of New York.
Over $30 million was spent by Obama in March, while Clinton only spent $22.2 million. Obama has been spending a large amount on advertising in Pennsylvania, which has helped him cut into Clinton's lead.
The ability for Obama to fundraise at a much greater level than Clinton is sure to figure into the superdelegate's decision as to who to support.
The latest news showing cracks in Hillary's campaign finances is another concern for her flagging campaign. Earlier this year, Clinton was forced to contribute $5 million of her own money to keep her campaign alive.
Nailbiter Finish Predicted in Pennsylvania
With just 24 hours to go before the crucial primary in Pennsylvania, new polls out today are predicting a nail biting finish to the ballot between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
Many Democratic insiders are suggesting that anything short of a convincing win by Hillary Clinton will see greater pressure applied to her to withdraw from the race.
So while Clinton's lead at the moment is a winning one, it is likley not to be enough to resist the growing pressure.
All the recent data suggests that Clinton is highly unlikely to overtake Obama on the popular vote and the pledged delegates. And the Superdelegate votes are moving increasingly to Obama.
In the latest Zogby tracking poll, Clinton has gained 2 points over the weekend, putting her in the lead 48% to 42%, with a margin of error of 4%.
Strategic Vision's latest poll, of 1200 Pennsylvania voters has Clinton in the lead 48% to 41%. Suffolk University's weekend poll of 600 likely Democratic primary voters has Clinton ahead by 10 points, 52%-42%.
Obama - On Track for Change
Barack Obama in Harrsiburg, Pennsylvania yesterday. Obama is steadily moving in on Hillary Clinton, in the vote that may prove crucial in the race for the nomination.
Obama within Striking Distance of Clinton
Barack Obama is just 5 points behind Hillary Clinton in the latest poll conducted in Pennsylvania, just 2 days before the polls open in the crucial primary.
Clinton leads Obama, 48% to 43% among 625 likely Democrat primary voters polled by the MSNBC/McClatchy/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. With a 4 point margin of error, it puts Obama well within striking distance of Clinton.
It has been widely reported that anything under a 10 point win for Clinton in Pennsylvania will be a major blow for her campaign. With her superdelegate lead seemingly narrowing by the day, a close result there will see greater calls for Clinton to drop out of the race.
Obama continued his campaign in Pennsylvania yesterday, taking a slow train across the state with various stops along the way. It was a continuation of his successful campaigning in Pennsylvania so far, coming after his speech to 35,000 people in Philly on Friday.
Barack Obama - Reason Ad
The latest ad from the Obama team in the lead up to the vote in Pennsylvania this Tuesday.
Entitled "Reason", the ad follows on the theme that Obama has mastered over the last couple of months. Further, it highlights the crucial endorsements that Obama has received from the major newspapers in Pennsylvania.
Again, its another well made ad from the Obama team - and it goes to the heart of the differences between the two candidates. These are the types of ads that actually change votes. Positive message, affirmed by independent newspapers.
Obama 's Slow Train Through Pennsylvania
In a move back to real old school politics, Barack Obama was yesterday on a slow train through Pennsylvania ahead of Tuesday's crucial primary.
Waving and talking to the many people who turned out to cheer him, Obama's train ride is amazing imagery, harking back to the grand old days of electioneering in the 19th century.
Latest polls have shown Obama gaining on Hillary Clinton in Pennsylvania, but also taking a big lead among registered Democrats across the nation.
Enjoy the slow train.
Obama - For Health Care We Can Afford
Obama's "Afford" ad, playing in Pennsylvania. "For health care we can afford, vote for change that we can believe in."
This is an ad which runs on one of the classic political formats - start with the negative, recognise the problem, offer a solution. It's a format that works.
Obama has Massive Lead - Newsweek
The latest Newsweek poll, conducted over the last few days, has Barack Obama leading Hillary Clinton by nearly 20 points among registered Democrats.
The survey of 1209 registered Democrats found that Obama leads Clinton 54% to 35% - a massive turnaround from the March Newsweek poll which had the split favoring Obama 45% to 44% - a statistical tie.
The amazing turnaround has come in a month where Obama has been subjected to increasing pressure by the Clinton camp and the media.
Of particular note is the fact that this poll was conducted after the "bitter" comments which were apparently to have played badly among Democrats. Not so according to these figures.
These latest results will be another blow to the Clinton campaign in the lead up to the crucial vote this Tuesday in Pennsylvania.
The only bright spot in this poll is the fact that both Obama and Clinton lead John McCain as the preferred President among all registered voters.
Registered voters give Obama a favorable rating of 56% compared to Clinton on 49%. Clinton has also suffered in the trustworthy question. Only 41% of people now consider her trustworthy - not a very promising figure for a candidate running for President.
Obama's speech to 35,000 in Philly
Barack Obama spoke to over 35,000 people at the Independence Center in Philadelphia yesterday, ahead of the crucial primary in Pennsylvania on Tuesday. This was the biggest crowd that Obama has addressed in the campaign till this point. Can it get any bigger?
This is the best of the speech.
Massive Crowds turnout for Obama
Barack Obama played to the biggest crowd of his campaign thus far, in his visit to Philadelphia, just days ahead of the crucial Pennsylvania Primary.
Over 35,000 people turned out to hear Obama speak at the Independence Visitor Center, a number which far exceeded the 30,000 who came to him and Oprah Winfrey in December in South Carolina.
Polls have shown Obama closing on Hillary Clinton, even after the much publicised bitter comments by Obama last week, and the tough debate conducted by ABC.
Obama spent at least some of his speech on Hillary Clinton, effectively labelling her a political opportunist.
"She's taken more money from Washington lobbyists than any other candidate in this race, even John McCain, because she says that lobbyists represent real Americans" he said. "She's taken a different position at different times on issues as fundamental as trade and even war, to suit the politics of the moment."
Obama as a contrast said that he was focusing clearly on change politics, and was not "running for President to play the same old Washington game.I'm running to end the game-playing" he said.
Obama secures Key Endorsements
In the lead up to the crucial Pennsylvania vote, Barack Obama has secured more key endorsements, in a further blow to the Hillary Clinton campaign.
Former Senators, Sam Nunn and David Boren have formally endorsed Obama, in addition to Robert Reich, the former Labor Secretary in the Bill Clinton administration.
Nunn was a former Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman from Georgia. Boren of Oklahoma an Oklahoman was chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.
Reich's endorsement for Obama will be a major disappointment for the Clinton camp - the second high profile former member of the Clinton administration to back Obama. Bill Richardson's endorsement of Obama last month is still grating on the Clinton team.
Jon Stewart breaks down ABC Debate
Who would have thought? An enlightened break down of the ABC hosted debate between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
Jon Stewart's commentary is very funny, and in all seriousness, absolutely spot on.
Edit - youtube video removed
Check out the video here.
Obama speaks on ABC Debate
Barack Obama in Raleigh, North Carolina, responds to the latest debate moderated by ABC. Minor controversy has erupted over the negative questioning of Obama by former Clinton adviser, George Stephanopoulos.
Amongst other things, Obama was questioned on the issues of Rev Wright and the bitter comments made last week.
His reponse here sums up his approach to the campaign - he is not playing this election the way they are expecting.
Springsteen Defends & Endorses Obama
Music legend Bruce Springsteen has endorsed Barack Obama as the Democratic nominee for President. And he has also defended Obama for what many in the media and Hillary Clinton had described as elitist comments made last week by Obama.
Springsteen said that Obama "...has the depth, the reflectiveness, and the resilience to be our next president. He speaks to the America I've envisioned in my music for the past 35 years, a generous nation with a citizenry willing to tackle nuanced and complex problems, a country that's interested in its collective destiny and in the potential of its gathered spirit."
In defending Obama, The Boss said that "Critics have tried to diminish Senator Obama through the exaggeration of certain of his comments and relationships. While these matters are worthy of some discussion, they have been ripped out of the context and fabric of the man's life and vision, often in order to distract us from discussing the real issues: war and peace, the fight for economic and racial justice, reaffirming our Constitution, and the protection and enhancement of our environment."
Springsteen campaigned with John Kerry in 2004, playing to crowds of up to 100,000.
Obama Grilling General Petraeus
A select portion of Barack Obama grilling General Petraeus on the Hill this week.
Barack Obama and Education
Barack Obama on his tour of Pennsylvania, speaks here in a town hall style meeting about education, particularly how the no child left behind policy is affecting local schools.
Obama is obviously passionate about this topic - and its yet another effort at putting meat on the bones of his policies. Hillary Clinton and some sections of the media have been critical of Obama for just giving good speeches, but not actually saying much in detail of what he will do if he becomes President.
Over the coming weeks and months, look out for more detail as Obama expands on his policies with real substance. Its a clever strategy - lay out the groundwork, then gradually expand.
And it seems to be working, by many reports Obama is clawing back Clinton's lead in Pennsylvania.
Obama to Offer Gore Key Position
Barack Obama has made a commitment that Al Gore will play a "central role" in his Administration, particularly in the field of climate change. However, it is a little unclear if Al Gore is a possibility for the Vice Presidential role again.
Campaigning in Pennsylvania, Obama was asked at a town hall style meeting if he would engage Gore as part of his Administration.
"Not only will I, but I will make a commitment that Al Gore will be at the table and play a central part in us figuring out how we solve this problem." Obama said
"He's somebody I talk to on a regular basis. I'm already consulting with him in terms of these issues but climate change is real. It is something we have to deal with now, not 10 years from now, not 20 years from now."
Al Gore is yet to endorse either Obama or Clinton. He may stay out of it, seeking to stay above the fray. But there is speculation that if he was to endorse, it would not be Hillary Clinton.
Superdelegates moving heavily to Obama
While many eyes are looking towards the battle in Pennsylvania on April 22, Barack Obama is slowly but surely winning the race for Superdelegates.
While Hillary Clinton still leads Obama in the superdelegate stakes by 250 to 217, Obama has been cutting that lead steadily over the last 8 weeks.
According to reports, since Super Tuesday, 64 superdelegates have pledged for Obama, with only 9 heading to Clinton.
With 330 still up for grabs, if Obama continues to secure superdelegates at this rate, even a large win for Clinton in Pennsylvania and other smaller states wont be enough for her to gain the lead.
Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota is the latest in a line of superdelegates to pledge to Obama. This comes after Sen Casey of Pennsylvania and Gov. Bill Richardson pledged to Obama last week.
Klobuchar said that Obama has a "different voice...and is bringing a new perspective and inspiring a real excitement from the American people."
Reports in the Wall Street Journal suggest that as many as 7 US House Members from North Carolina will be shortly throwing their support behind Obama as well. North Carolina holds its primary on May 6.
Klobuchar Backs Barack Obama
Democratic Senator from Minnesota, Amy Klobuchar has formally endorsed Barack Obama as the nominee for President.
This is yet another in a long line of significant endorsements for Obama. It is the second femalee US Senator to endorse him, after Sen. Clare McCaskill of Missouri came out early for Obama and was instrumental in helping him win that state's primary.
"Between Barack and a hard place, I chose Barack," Klobuchar said.
"He's able to dissolve the hard cynical edge that has dominated our politics under the Bush administration."
Obama still continues to trail Clinton amongst women - this endorsement should go a good way to helping to appeal to that important demographic.
Obama extends lead over Clinton
Barack Obama has extended his lead over Hillary Clinton in the latest results of the tracking Gallup Poll.
The poll, conducted between March 27 and 29, shows Obama on 52% compared to Clinton on 42%.
In an apparent confirmation of the result, Rasmussen have also released a poll, conducted over the previous 4 nights, showing Obama leading Clinton 47%-42%.
White males and those under 50 are strongly supporting Obama, with white women and older voters still sticking with Clinton.
Democrats Will Unite - Obama & Clinton
Both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have declared that Democrats will unite behind whichever of them secures the nomination. Both candidates have spoken about the issue after concerns have been raised in recent weeks about the divisive nature of their campaigns.
Asked in North Carolina what she would say to Democrats who were thinking of voting for McCain, Clinton said that "It is not a wise decision for yourself or your country.I intend to do everything I can to make sure we have a unified Democratic party. When this contest is over and we have a nominee, we're going to close ranks, we're going to be united."
Obama also made a similar point. "I don't think we are hurt, long term. I think short term, there is going to be work to do for the nominee to bring the party back together again" he said.
"I think what's going to happen is that there are going to be some bruised feelings, whoever the nominee is. We are going to have to come together and remind ourselves that there is a heck of a lot bigger difference between either Senator Clinton or myself, and John McCain."
Clinton Urged to Quit Race for Obama
Hillary Clinton has been strongly urged to quit the race for the nomination, and allow Barack Obama greater time to prepare for the November election.
In a move that is seeking to quell the public fighting among Democrats, Senator Chris Dodd and Senator Patrick J Leahy have urged Clinton to withdraw.
"Senator Clinton has every right, but not a very good reason, to remain a candidate for as long as she wants to" Leahy said.
Leahy also said that it was almost impossible for Clinton to win the nomination from here.
Dodd said that he thinks a long drawn out contest, well into June, would be devastating for the Democrats.
The DNC Chairman, Howard Dean has called on the Clinton and Obama camps to cool it over the coming weeks, lest Democrats become demoralised for the real campaign later in the year.
Clinton is trailing in the pledged delegates, and Obama is making serious headway with the Superdelegates. The 2 latest polls have Clinton either even or behind Obama as preferred nominee. And Obama leads Clinton as the best option to defeat John McCain.
Senator Casey Endorsement of Obama
Senator Bob Casey of Pennsylvania endorses Barack Obama. Speech at the the Soldiers and Sailors Military Museum in Pittsburgh. This endorsement kicks of a 6 day tour of Pennsylvania by Obama.
Obama is hoping to make some inroads into the double digit lead that Hillary Clinton has in Pennsylvania.
Obama Secures Key Endorsement
Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey has formally endorsed Barack Obama - a move which will be a major blow to Hillary Clinton's campaign for the nomination.
Casey is an extremely popular Democrat in Pennsylvania, and his support will go a long way to making inroads into the white, conservative voters in that state. This is Obama's first major endorsement in Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Democrats go to the polls on April 22. Hillary Clinton still enjoys a solid double digit lead in that state, but a strong win there is crucial for her to stay in the race.
Obama is commercing a 6 day tour of the state, where he hopes to narrow Clinton's lead.
The Obama endorsement by Casey, the son of a former popular Governor, has ended a bad week for Clinton. Two national polls have shown her trailing Obama, she has had to defend her statements on her trip to the Balkans, and Gov. Richardson has also endorsed Obama.
Toughest TV Ad
Barack Obama's toughest TV ad. This is airing in Pennsylavania.
Its in the same style as the first campaign piece by Obama 14 months ago, with exactly the same music.
Wright Hasn't Affected Obama - Poll
A new poll by the Pew Research Center has found that the Rev. Wright issue has seemingly not affected Barack Obama's chances in securing the Democratic nomination.
Obama leads Hillary Clinton in the poll, 49% to 39% - the same result as a month ago. And further, the Gallup tracking poll again has Obama 4 points clear of Clinton.
The results of the survey also pointed to something interesting - that the Wright issue has attracted more public attention than any other issue during the campaign so far.
In this poll, both Obama and Hillary Clinton have a small lead over Republican Nominee, John McCain.
The poll by Pew Research was taken over March 19-22 and surveyed 1503 people.
Obama back on Message
Barack Obama has returned to the real enemy in the campaign, the Republicans and John McCain.
In a speech in Greenboro, North Carolina, Obama criticised John McCain for his policies which he suggests will be a continuation of the Bush economic doctrine.
Obama said that McCain offers no support for those threatened with losing their home or their job. He said McCain would prefer to continue the tax breaks for the wealthiest few. Obama said that America cant afford another 4 years of Bush economics.
This approach by Obama is paying dividends. Already he has recovered in the polls, and while Clinton is busy defending her statements about her trip to Bosnia, Obama is moving onto the real target, and talking about the big issues.
Obama Withstands Rough 2 weeks
Barack Obama has withstood the rough two weeks in the media, according to the latest poll.
The Poll, conducted by NBC and the Wall Street Journal show Obama and Hillary Clinton even as preferred nominee.
And in more good news, on the positive rating front, Obama leads Clinton 49% to 37%.
Obama is also back in the lead in the head to head match ups with John McCain. He leads McCain by two points, whereas McCain leads Clinton by the same margin.
The polls were taken on Monday and Tuesday, just as the latest gaffe by Hillary Clinton was revealed. Clinton was caught embellishing the truth about her trip to Bosnia in the 1990's.
Bill Clinton Just Like Sen. McCarthy
Bill Clinton has been likened to Senator Joe McCarthy by Barack Obama campaign aide, Tony McPeak after the former President made comments in North Carolina which potentially could be seen as suggesting that Obama was not patriotic.
Clinton said the following, in reference to a possible showdown in November between Hillary and John McCain.
"I think it would be a great thing if we had an election year where you had two people who loved this country and were devoted to the interest of this country. And people could actually ask themselves who is right on these issues, instead of all this other stuff that always seems to intrude itself on our politics."
McPeak said that he grew up in the 1950's, when "...McCarthy was accusing good Americans of being traitors."
He said that "It's a use of language as a disguised insult. We've seen this before, this little clever spin that's put on stuff.I have no idea what his intentions are, but I'm disappointed in the statement. I think Bill Clinton is, or ought to be, better than that."
The Clinton campaign have suggested that the comparison between McCarthy and the former President is absurd. But it certainly isn't the first time that Bill Clinton has caused ripples in this campaign with some of his language. And if he stays on the campaign trail, you can bet it wont be the last.
Richardson Endorsement of Obama
Gov. Bill Richardson's endorsement of Barack Obama today in Portland, Oregon. A very powerful speech. Richardson is extremely charismatic, has a sense of humour, and has strong experience. If he keeps this up, he certainly has strong claims for the Vice Presidential role should Obama secure the nomination.
The endorsement comes at a perfect time for Obama, and is a blow for the Clinton's who would have been hoping for Richardson's support.
Passport Breach extends to Clinton, McCain
Having admitted on Thursday, that Barack Obama's personal passport file had been breached on 3 separate occasions by 3 separate people, the State Department were forced Friday into another humiliating admission.
Both Hillary Clinton and John McCain's personal files had also been breached.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has phoned all three candidates and apologized for the breaches.
Although the breach of Clinton's file at this stage appears relatively minor, the inquiry into McCain's file was made by the same person who had looked into Obama's.
Speaking before the latest revelations on his own passport had come to light, McCain said that "If anyone's privacy is breached, then they deserve an apology and a full investigation and I believe that will take place."
The Obama campaign have placed the blame firmly at the Bush Administration describing them of committing an outrageous breach of privacy for political ends.
Gov. Richardson Endorses Barack Obama
Former contender for the Democratic Nomination and Governor of New Mexico, Bill Richardson has declared that he is endorsing Barack Obama for the nomination.
Both Obama and Hillary Clinton have spent time courting Richardson's support, both for his public endorsement, but also as a superdelegate. This significance of this endorsement can't be underestimated.
Richardson has called Obama a once in a lifetime leader who will be able to reunite America as well as providing for strong international leadership.
"As a presidential candidate, I know full well Senator Obama's unique moral ability to inspire the American people to confront our urgent challenges at home and abroad in a spirit of bipartisanship and reconciliation," Richardson said.
Richardson has long been considered a possible running mate for either Obama or Clinton. He brings not only a wealth of experience on the domestic and international front, but as an Hispanic, he may well appeal to the vital and growing latin American community which could prove crucial come November.
In addition, his support wont hurt during the remaining primaries. As US Ambassador to the UN and Energy Secretary during the Clinton Administration, his relationship with Hillary and Bill was said to be close.
This endorsement for Obama will come as a major disappointment for them.
Obama – It is about Experience and Judgement
“I am running for President of the United States of America. I’m running to be Commander in Chief. And the reason I‘m running to be Commander in Chief is because I believe that the most important thing, when you answer that phone call at 3 in the morning, is what kind of judgement do you have – not how long you have been in Washington, but what kind of judgement do you have when you’re answering that phone.” Barack Obama, Mississippi, 10 March 2008.
So said Barack Obama in response to the TV attacks by Hillary Clinton, implying that he was too inexperienced to deal with a national security matter at three in the morning. If you haven’t seen it, it’s an ad taken straight from the Republican playbook.
Unfortunately, this suggestion by Clinton falls into the same trap that Clinton has set, and indeed has begun to have some resonance in the American media.
And it’s just plain wrong. Barack Obama was a State Senator for seven years in Illinois, one of the more populous states in America, and not without its share of problems. Then, he secured a spot in a cherished position, the United States Senate – and became only the third Black Senator since Reconstruction. That’s right, one of three since the latter half of the 19th century. By the time the election comes around in November, Obama will be nearing the end of four years in that place.
For the record, that’s only four years less than Clinton in the Senate. Hillary’s only other experience, was not as an elected official, but as First Lady. True, she carved out her own role, was incredibly proactive and a serious advisor to the President. Yet, one of her major tasks during that time was to help secure a national health care reform and it failed dismally. And it failed in many ways because of the way the system in Washington works – one of the things that Obama is referring to when he uses the word “Change”.
But if we are to accept the notion that experience in Washington is all that matters, first we must look at the recent history. Let’s take four of the last five Presidents. Jimmy Carter was Governor of Georgia, Reagan a Governor of California, Bill Clinton, Governor of Arkansas and Bush Jr, Governor of Texas. Not one of them, including Hillary’s husband, had served in Washington before coming to the Presidency.
Yet as Obama says, it’s not just about experience in Washington, it is about judgement. On one of the most important matters in a generation, the Iraq war, Obama stood very much alone as an opponent, at a time when holding such a view as a politician was not only unpopular, but potentially a career breaking decision.
At the same time, Hillary Clinton was standing firmly behind President Bush in his call for war. It’s not just about being capable of admitting when you are wrong, but making the right decisions in the first place.
Only days ago, former Democratic Vice Presidential Candidate, and the first woman from a major party to stand for that high office, Geraldine Ferraro suggested that Obama wouldn’t be where he is today, were it not for the colour of his skin. But she went further, decrying America’s media for being too sexist.
It can’t be said that Obama hasn’t broken down barriers himself. Raised mainly by his grandparents in Hawaii, he then went on not to only attend Harvard, but to head the prestigious Harvard Law Review. Serving in the Illinois Senate, followed up by the United States Senate and then a real contender for President, are no small achievements. Particularly for a skinny black kid with a funny name. His words, not mine.
For all of last year, Obama was the underdog. In fact, some national polls had him more than thirty points behind Clinton. And it wasn’t until Super Tuesday a month ago that he was given a real chance. But let us be aware that it is not through some delicious scandal or massive political error that Hillary is now trailing Obama. The lead that Obama enjoys is due to persistence – the same which many credit the Clintons with – persistence in fighting against the odds and against the best political machine in the country.
The Democratic nomination is still at least weeks, if not months away from being decided. Unfortunately for Clinton, if she does secure the nomination, the 3am negative ad against Obama in Ohio and Texas, could just as easily be turned around and used by John McCain come November. Perhaps by then, it might be about judgement.
The Difference between Judgment & Experience
This is classic Obama - a great little snippet from North Carolina yesterday which sums up Obama'a position on Iraq, and makes a clear contrast between Judgment and Experience.
Obama Passport Breach - Political Motive?
Was there a political motive behind the breach in security that allowed 3 individuals to access Barack Obama's personal passport file on 3 separate occassions this year?
That is something the Obama campaign will seek to find out as they call for a full investigation.
"This is an outrageous breach of security and privacy, even from an administration that has shown little regard for either over the last eight years. Our government's duty is to protect the private information of the American people, not use it for political purposes," spokesperson for the Obama campaign Bill Burton said yesterday.
"This is a serious matter that merits a complete investigation, and we demand to know who looked at Senator Obama's passport file, for what purpose and why it took so long for them to reveal this security breach," he said.
2 people have been fired and one has been disciplined due to the breaches.
The State Department are looking into the matter, and there is a possibility that the FBI or Justice Department may be called in also to investigate.
Fox on Obama - Time to Move On
Barack Obama has captured the attention of a much wider audience, with not only the political viewing public and media tuning in to watch his Philadelphia speech on race relations in America.
24 Hours after the speech, over 1.6 million people had viewed the youtube video. This morning, just on the one version supplied by barackobamadotcom, it is up to 2 million.
Yet of course, there were some in the media who just cant seem to move on from the Obama/Rev Wright issue, notably the Fox Network. Does that surprise anyone?
Some were unimpressed with Obama's refusal to totally distance himself from Wright. Some considered that the issue was so damaging, as to disqualify Obama from running for the White House.
Right. I think the reaction of the media on this one is proving what a farce the "mainstream" media are becoming, and why many people are turning to online media, and using tools such as youtube and blogs to make up their on mind. People don't like being told what to do, and what to think anymore.
Obama bravely addressed the issue of race relations in America - a speech that was more fitting of a President, not a candidate in a tight contest for the nomination. And he dealt with the matter of Rev Wright, clearly unable to disown the person who had been his pastor for 20 years. And nor should he.
As Obama rightly pointed out, we have all likely disagreed with something our pastor/priest/rabbi has said at times, but that is no reason to disown them. That doesnt mean he agrees with what Wright has said - quite the opposite.
Could you imagine the line that Fox and other would have taken had Obama distanced himself completely from Wright? Yes, he was just being politically expedient and shallow.
Cant' win.
Obama did the courageous thing. Not only was he brave on this issue of Rev. Wright, but he went further, dealing with race relations in the United States. In doing so, this speech will go down as one of the most significant of the 21st century.
And thankfully, people are viewing the speech themselves, and not just listening to the unhelpful commentary provided by some media organisations.
Obama Speech - A More Perfect Union
Barack Obama delivers his speech in Philadelphia, on a More Perfect Union.
Obama to Address Race Issues in Speech
Barack Obama will today give a major speech at the Major Constitution Center in Philadelphia, where he will address the issues of race head on.
Obama has come under fire in recent days, for his association with the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr, Pastor at Obama's church.
Wright has in the past given sermons which have attacked America and the Government.
Obama has distanced himself significantly from the Pastor over the last week and removed him from his religious advisory groups, but the controversy has bubbled along regardless.
Obama will today repeat his denunciation of the Pastor's remarks, but will go further, in an attempt to deal with the issue of race and race relations.
Apparently, Obama is concerned that if his association with Wright is not dealt with, along with the issue of race relations, then his campaign for the nomination could be damaged significantly.
If Obama's previous major speeches are anything to go by, this one should be worth watching. And by all accounts, it could be his most important yet.
Fox Can't Handle the Truth
A good defence of Barack Obama by Senator Chris Dood and Senator Chuck Schumer, but the Fox Network doesnt seem to be listening...and it goes on.
Obama responds to Rev. Wright Issue
Barack Obama interviewed by Major Garrett, shown here on Hannity and Colmes.
Fox Network are loving this arent they?
Obama gets more Delegates from Iowa
Barack Obama has secured more delegates from Iowa, 2 and a half months after the vote there.
The 14 votes that John Edwards picked up in Iowa have been up for grabs, with 9 one them to come to Obama.
This takes Obama's total from the State to 25, compared with 14 for Hillary Clinton. 6 Delegates are still stciking with John Edwards.
Dick Morris Analysis on Obama's Delegates
Former strategist for President Bill Clinton, Dick Morris, and Eileen McGann have put together some very interesting analysis of split of delegates between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. From the last line of the article, Morris and McGann suggest that the chances of Hillary securing the nomination from here are "increasingly remote". Wow.
By Dick Morris & Eileen McGann
A funny thing is happening. While Hillary and Bill appeal to super delegates to override the will of the voters and back Hillary, the super delegates are doing just the opposite.
The latest delegate count posted on realclearpolitics.com shows that Hillary’s lead among super delegates, once a comfortable 60 votes, has now been cut almost in half to 36 delegates. The latest tally has Hillary leading among super delegates by 247 to 211. So, with 57 percent of the super delegates decided, Hillary’s lead is shrinking.
In fact, Obama’s total delegate lead has swelled to 163 votes among elected delegates and 127 among all delegates. With 1,614 votes, he isn’t far from the 2,025 he would need without Florida or Michigan, to win the nomination.
Of the remaining 566 delegates to be selected, Hillary should enjoy a slight edge. She’ll probably win Pennsylvania (158 delegates), Indiana (72), Kentucky (51), West Virginia (28), and Puerto Rico (55). Obama will likely win North Carolina (115), Oregon (52), Montana (16), South Dakota (15) and Guam (4). If this turns out to be so, Clinton would lead in states with 364 delegates while Obama would prevail in states with 202. But even if we assume 10 point wins for each candidate in each state (and the margin will likely be much tighter), all Hillary would get from her states is 36 more delegates while Obama would get 20 from his — still leaving Obama with a lead of 147 in elected delegates.
At that point, Obama would have about 1,900 votes, within spitting distance of the 2025 he’d need to win. Hillary would have to win the remaining super delegates by a top-heavy margin of 2:1 in order to win (steal) the nomination from Obama, who will have won the most elected delegates.
Even if we factor in possible do-over primaries in Florida and Michigan, the nature of the proportional representation process is not likely to change this outcome significantly. Hillary might get an extra 20 delegates if she wins both states, but she’s not likely to get more.
Can Hillary carry the remaining super delegates by 2:1 when she is carrying the ones who have committed by only 247 to 211? Not very likely. The pressure on these delegates to vote as their states voted will be very intense and few are likely to stand up to it.
Remember that these super delegates are either elected officials in their own right, which means that they need to get reelected or party officials in the various states whose ears are very close to the ground. Particularly in caucus states that Obama carried heavily, they are not about to antagonize the party activists who backed Obama by undercutting their will and switching to Hillary.
In fact, the track record of the super delegates so far indicates that they are abandoning Hillary and signing up with Obama as his delegate lead mounts.
So even if the Clintons try as hard as they can (and they will) to steal his election, their chances of doing so are getting increasingly remote.
Clinton Playing Dangerous Game
The Hillary Clinton team is playing a dangerous game in the race for the nomination, with Chief Strategist Mark Penn declaring that Barack Obama can't win the November election.
Building on Clinton's remarks after Ohio, Penn has declared that the Pennsylvania primary in April is another real test.
"We believe fundamentally that Pennsylvania provides a very significant test of who can really win the general election" he said. "We believe this will again show that Hillary is ready to win and that Senator Obama really can't win the general election."
It's a strategy that is generally considered a no go between Democrat candidates. And its a little strange, particularly since last week Clinton seemed to imply that Obama could be her running mate.
However, Obama's chief strategist David Plouffe rebuffed the Clinton argument, saying that Clinton is only deeming the states she has won to be the important ones.
"Throughout this entire process, the Clinton campaign has moved the goal posts to create a shifting, twisted rationale for why they should win the nomination despite winning fewer primaries, fewer states, fewer delegates, and fewer votes." Plouffe said.
Ferraro Removed from Clinton Campaign
Geraldine Ferraro has been removed from the Hillary Clinton campaign after her divisive remarks about Barack Obama.
Having yesterday distanced themselves from Ferraro, and suggested that she only played a fringe role in the campaign, the Clinton team would have demanded action by Ferraro.
But in her own words, Ferraro admits to being a member of Hillary's finance committee.
Her "resignation" letter to Clinton reads:
"Dear Hillary, I am stepping down from your finance committee so I can speak for myself and you can continue to speak for yourself about what's at stake in this campaign. The Obama campaign is attacking me to hurt you. I won't let that happen. Thank you for everything you've done and continue to do to make this a better world for my children and grandchildren. You have my deep admiration and respect, Gerry."
This is a first step for Clinton - but she is yet to totally dismiss Ferraro's statements. And it took more than 5 days since the statement was made for any action to be taken. The inaction leaves Clinton open for an attack on her possible dog whistle strategy.
No Resolution on Michigan/Florida delegates
A massive impasse exists between the Obama and Clinton camps on the issue of how to seat delegations from Michigan and Florida at the Democratic Convention.
Florida and Michigan held their primaries earlier than usual in January, and had their delegations stripped by the DNC for breach of the rules.
Both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton want the delegations seated - there is no division on that point.
But Clinton wants the results on the January primaries in Michigan and Florida to be be official. The problem is - Obama didnt campaign in either state, and wasnt on the ticket.
At the time, all candidates accepted that the delegations wouldnt be seated, with Clinton going so far as to say that the Mihcigan Primary was "meaningless". Obama, out of respect for other states, removed his name from the ballot and didnt campaign there. As did most of the other candidates.
"We were told that Michigan and Florida wouldn’t count, and so we said we wouldn’t campaign there” Obama said. “Senator Clinton said the same thing, that they wouldn’t count. Now her campaign is suggesting that they should.”
If Clinton's first proposal isnt accepted, she is alternatively proposing a second vote in Florida and Michigan, in June, after the end of the other states votes. The benefit in such a move would be momentum - Hillary Clinton would be expected to win Florida and likely Michigan. Having momentum in the lead up to the Convention would be her main goal. The proposal would be for the vote to be attendance - a massive cost to the Democrats, or a mail in.
Obviously, the Obama team is not accepting either of the two points. It is believed that the preference would be for a 50/50 vote split, enabling the delegates to be seated, but not affecting the vote lead.
It doesnt appear that this matter will be settled anytime soon. The more this issue drags on, the better it is for the GOP - particularly in such a crucial state as Florida.
Obama talks after Mississippi Win
Barack Obama talks to Chris Matthews on NBC after his win in Mississippi yesterday.
Ferraro Won't Apologise - Crisis for Clinton
The Ferraro comments on Barack Obama threaten to turn into a major crisis for the Clinton campaign, with the former Democratic Vice Presidential Candidate refusing to apologise.
Geraldine Ferraro has suggested that Barack Obama wouldnt be where he is today, if he wasnt black. Clinton has distanced herself from Ferraro's comments, but has yet to remove her from the campaign. After the furore caused last week over the monster comment, this issue will seriously destabalise the Clinton campaign over coming days.
If this issue isnt resolved almost immediately by Hillary Clinton herself, this could well be a millstone around her neck for the next month in the lead up to Pennsylvania.
Check out Tim Russert's reaction - i have no doubt that the position the major media will take over the coming days will be very harsh indeed.
Obama Wins Mississippi
Barack Obama has convincingly won the state of Mississippi in the Democratic Primary for President.
Predictions put Obama on 17 delegates to 14 for Hillary Clinton. 2 are yet to be decided.
Obama won a massive majority of African Amercian voters in Mississippi, at a proportion of over 8 in 10.
With most of the precincts reporting, Obama had about 59% of the vote compared to 39% for Clinton - right in line with the most recent polls.
The win is sure to bring the momentum back to Obama. Not to mention the blow up that is bound to occur because of the Ferraro comments.
Polls Closing in Miss.
The polls are closing in Mississippi where Barack Obama is predicted to win up to 60% of the vote. 33 delegates are at stake today. And with Obama in the lead by about 140 in the pledged delegate stakes, it should be another blow to the Clinton team. But not an unexpected one.
Between 125,000 and 150,000 people were expected to vote today - up from just 100,000 four years ago.
When taking into account the committed superdelegates, Obama still has a lead of just over 100. But there are still a large amount of superdelegates yet to commit to either candidate.
Remaining states to decide on the nominee include, Pennsylvania, Indiana, North Carolina, Kentucky, West Virginia, Oregon, Puerto Rico, South Dakota and Montana.
Ferraro Attacks Obama
Unsuccessful Vice Presidential Canidate in 1984, Geraldine Ferraro has entered into the nomination debate by making a ridiculous attack on Obama. And for the record, Ferraro is a Clinton supporter.
"If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position, and if he was a woman of any color he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept."
I dont think any comment is needed on the above statement, I think it speaks for itself. Clinton has denounced the statement, but the Obama camp has called for Ferraro to be removed from Hillary's campaign. Rightly so, if the reaction to last week's monster statement is anything to go by. And that was about 1/100th as offensive as the Ferraro comments.
I just have one question. Who is Geraldine Ferraro and what has she done for the past 24 years?
Obama Scoffs at VP Talk
Barack Obama has laid out his strongest message so far on the suggestion that he should be considering the Vice President position on a ticket with Hillary Clinton.
"With all due respect, I've won twice as many states as Senator Clinton. I've won more of the popular vote than Senator Clinton. I have more delegates," he said. "So I don't know how somebody who is in second place is offering the Vice Presidency to the person who is in first place."
Speaking in Mississippi ahead of today's vote, Obama went on to question the logic that applied to the Clinton position.
"I don't understand," he said. "If I'm not ready, how is it that you think I would be such a great vice president? Do you understand that?"
Polls show that Obama should win comfortably today in Mississipi, with some pollsters having him on as much as 60% of the vote.
A big win there will give him an even bigger lead over Clinton, making the Pennsylvania contest even more important.
Split delegates 50/50 says Dodd
Former Democratic Presidential hopeful and Connecticut Senator, Chris Dodd has proposed that the fairest approach to the delegate question in Florida and Nevada would be to split them 50/50 between Obama and Clinton.
"Split up the delegations, let 'em each have 50 percent of it and move on," he said. "You don't have to go back over and re-do these things."
For the record, Dodd is backing Obama. Something tells me that Clinton won't be accepting this proposal.
New Polls show Obama Strong
New polls out today have Barack Obama well in the lead in Mississippi, and still very competitive in Pennsylvania.
A Rasmussen poll has Obama in the lead over Hillary Clinton, 53% to 37%, while an American Research Poll has a larger lead for Obama - 58% to 34%.
In the state of Pennsylvania, the Rasmussen poll found 52% favored Clinton compared with 37% for Obama. Obama was more competitive in the American Research Poll where the split was 52% for Clinton and 41% for Obama.
Mississippi votes on Tuesday, with 33 delegates up for grabs.
3am Kid Supports Obama
"It's 3am and your children are safe and asleep...", but who do those children support, Clinton or Obama?
The 3am ad, used by the Clinton campaign to question Obama's credentials, features a family, in particular a sleeping girl. Turns out that young girl featured sleeping in the ad, Casey Knowles is actually now 17 years old - the images in the ad are stock footage from 8 years ago!
I love this story, Casey is a Democrat and has been campaigning for Obama for months and was a precinct captain in Washington.
Obama Wins Wyoming
With 96% of the Wyoming precincts reporting, Barack Obama has 59% to Hillary Clinton's 40%.
This is an important win for the Obama campaign even though only 12 delegates were at stake.
The Clintons...all of them, have spent the last few days campaigning heavily in Wyoming, hoping to secure an upset victory which would boost her momentum after her narrow wins in Ohio and Texas.
Barack Obama in Casper, Wyoming
Barack Obama defends his record on the Iraq war, after sustained attacks from Hillary Clinton over the last day. Obama hit back at Clinton on the issue stating that "It was because of George Bush, with an assist from Hillary Clinton and John McCain that we entered into this war..."
Obama staffer resigns
From The Guardian
by Ewen Macaskill and Suzanne Goldenberg, Washington
ONE of Barack Obama's senior advisers, Samantha Power, was forced to resign yesterday after describing Hillary Clinton as a monster — one of the most personal comments yet in what is becoming an increasingly negative campaign.
Ms Power, who was in Britain promoting a book at the time, told The Scotsman newspaper: "We f---ed up in Ohio. In Ohio, they are obsessed and Hillary is going to town on it because she knows Ohio's the only place they can win. She is a monster, too — that is off the record. She is stooping to anything."
The Clinton camp immediately demanded Senator Obama sack Ms Power, a Harvard professor and foreign affairs specialist. It produced four members of Congress to denounce her comments and reminded Senator Obama of his promise in December to sack staff who engaged in such personal attacks.
Ms Power issued a statement saying: "With deep regret, I am resigning from my role as an adviser to the Obama campaign effective today.
"Last Monday, I made inexcusable remarks that are at marked variance from my oft-stated admiration for Senator Clinton and from the spirit, tenor, and purpose of the Obama campaign.
"And I extend my deepest apologies to Senator Clinton, Senator Obama, and the remarkable team I have worked with over these long 14 months."
Senator Obama's spokesman said the remarks were not in keeping with the senator's views. "Senator Obama decries such characterisations, which have no place in this campaign," the spokesman said.
Ms Power, a specialist on humanitarian issues, the United Nations and the Balkans, is one of many foreign policy advisers to the Obama team.
Her comment came as relations between the two camps have become increasingly fractious. Senator Obama's team blames the loss of the Ohio and Texas primaries last week on negative campaigning by Senator Clinton.
GUARDIAN
No Joint Ticket yet
Barack Obama has poured cold water on the Hillary Clinton suggestion that the two could form a joint ticket for the November contest, with her leading the charge.
"That may be where this is headed," she said. "But of course we have to decide who is on the top of the ticket. I think the people of Ohio very clearly said it should be me."
Obama has stated quite clearly that he is focussing on securing the nomination himself. And with a lead of at least 90 delegates, that seems quite reasonable.
"We are just focused on winning this nomination," Obama said. "I think it is premature to start talking about a joint ticket."
Obama has also gone on the attack, in response to the negative campaigning by Hillary Clinton in the last week. There was no doubt "...that Senator Clinton went very negative over the last week" and that it has had "some impact" Obama said.
In response to Clinton's 3am ad, Obama specificaly questioned what exactly were her foreign policy credentials. It's a fair question. Clinton has only been a Senator for 2 more years than Obama. Prior to that she was First Lady, where the major decisions were handled by her husband. Or is she claiming something different?
Clinton may have gained some momentum out of her wins in Ohio and Texas - but we can expect to see an even tougher Obama over the coming weeks, with a much more attacking rather than defensive style.
Texas and Ohio Down - Still in the Lead
Barack Obama claimed last night that his delegate lead would remain virtually unchanged after the votes in the states of Texas, Ohio, Vermont and Rhode Island.
Interestingly, the spin from the Clinton camp and the media is that Clinton has secured a big victory, taking 3 out of the 4 states.
We dont read it that way. Having been well behind in the polls, as late as a few weeks ago, Obama has made massive gains in all states, with perhaps his gains slowing only in the last days before the vote.
With counting almost complete, the tallys in the biggest states of Texas and Ohio, have Obama trailing slightly in Texas and only 8 points behind in Ohio.
Texas is showing a 51% to 47% split, with Ohio at 54% to 46%.
The actual delegate counts are still to come in, but estimations are that Obama will still have a very healthy lead heading into the Wyoming and Mississippi contests in the next few days.
One interesting point of note has been Clinton's answer to a question of a joint ticket with Obama,with of course her on the top. Its a clever ploy, vote for me and you still get Obama. Lets see where that story heads over the next few days.
This race still has a way to play yet, with Pennsylvania to come in a few weeks, and the constant push to secure the superdelegates.
With McCain confirmed as the Republican nominee, the head start on the Democrats will be substantial.
It's Showdown
It's getting close - by all reports Obama is just in front in Texas, slightly behind in Ohio, catching up in Rhode Island and way in the lead in Vermont.
While Clinton has been madly scrambling to play catch up on the fundraising stakes. Obama is outspending her in advertising, in some places as much as 3 to 1.
And he has to - Clinton is looking desperate. Her own husband has announced that she cannot be the Democratic nominee if she doesn't win the states of Ohio and Texas.
Even if she doesnt secure victories, or convincing victories, she may yet push on, hoping the delegates of Florida will be seated at the convention,combined with an all out oush for the superdelgates.
Obama conitnues to campaign hard - even suprising some by making a trip to Rhode Island, a place considered strong Clinton territory.
Can he continue the amazing run of 10 wins in a row and crush the Clinton dream?
We shall see in 2 days.
Robert De Niro endorses Obama
Robert De Niro speaking here about Barack Obama. De Niro talks tough on the "experience" question that Clinton has higlighted so much in this campaign. "Im here because finally one person has inspired me, one person has given me hope, one person has made me belive we can make a change - that person is Barack Obama."
In terms of celebrity endorsments, they dont get much bigger than this.
Obama on Super Tuesday
Obama takes out a majority of States on Super Tuesday. His speech here from his home state of Illinois, which he won convincingly. This was a day that the Clinton team thought would finish Obama. He has proved the Clinton team and the pundits wrong - again! In Obama's own words - "Our time has come and change is coming to America".
Obama 2nd in New Hampshire
Barack Obama secured a strong second place in New Hampshire to follow up his win in Iowa a few days ago.
Hillary Clinton secured 39% of the vote, closely followed by Barack Obama on 36%. John Edwards came in a respectable third on 17%.
Despite coming in 2nd, still a great speech from Obama.
Obama wins Iowa
Obama recorded a stunning win in the first contest of the race for the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. From polls over the last year which showed him consistently well behind Hillary Clinton, Obama has worked steadily to make up the ground. In the caucus in Iowa, he did that, and a lot more, leading Clinton and Edwards by at least 8%, and taking home a good few more delegates too.
It's an amazing turnaround for Obama, and bodes well as he moves on to the first primary in New Hampshire
Check out the Iowa victory speech here, one of the best political speeches you will witness.
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