My Wife And I Have Decided To NOT Vote For Edwards

[SoFlaJet]

in the Florida primary-at this point it almost seems like a wasted vote-we have switched to Obama-whattayathink?

[Bicoastal]

1. It's your vote...

....

[MNDemNY]

2. By all means go with corporate hack #2.

[SoFlaJet]

7. We love Edwards

but just don't see him as viable. Most of the time it comes down to a lesser of two evils anyway and for us, I guess it's ABH...

[MNDemNY]

15. Vote edwards. The delegates are proportional.

Give him a voice at the convention. It's the primary, vote for who you like! In the GE we may all have to hold our combined noses and vote. But not yet!

[PATRICK]

106. Proportional?

I see their point since the delegates won't be seated anyway, this in essence is a winner take all vanity contest. I would argue with them but sadly, being disenfranchised and stripped of a fair campaign I think their reasons can be respected.

The trouble is that with the Clintons garnering all this voteless momentum, there is NO single strategy to express anything much in Michigan or Florida. Should the dark day come when suddenly ALL those phony Clinton delegates are seated it would be an utter catastrophe for the entire party itself right to the core, far beyond the lasting damage it would do to Hillary to triumph by these means.

And yes, you idiot Dem politicians in Florida beating your chest to the vast entertainment of the GOP, it is you who have screwed your state, your people, your party and your nation out of sheer stupidity.

I don't think these people can be criticized for anything except not throwing rotten eggs at state party officials who are trying to scapegoat Dean while enlarging this disaster.

[Yael]

25. I am glad the media was able to help you reach a decision

There used to be a day when the people decided viability.

On edit -- sorry to be a snark. If you were talking about Republicans, I could understand, but you don't live in a winner-take-all state.

[Blue Diadem]

63. That's exactly what is wanted. That's why he's not getting the coverage.

We have to stop allowing the media and corporations to make the decision for us.

If you love John Edwards, vote for him.

[bdamomma]

131. Damn straight for the past 7 years we have had someone

to kick the American people down, either this filthy administration or the media, enough is enough, I think of myself much better than that to listen to this filthy administration and media regarding who to vote for.


I will vote for Edwards.

[bobbolink]

139. Please, SoFlaJet, read this one!

You are being manipulated by the media out of your vote, and OurVotesCount-Ohio is saying it like it is!

They played the game this one on purpose...to get people like you to change your vote.

Just say "NO"!

[ljm2002]

108. Hard to see how he can become viable...

...if his SUPPORTERS won't VOTE for him?

[Yael]

127. Theres a concept....

[Cronopio]

118. If you loved Edwards, you'd support him.

If you want to compromise your vote on a compromised position for a compromised candidate, you might as well be satisfied with a compromised Presidency.

As Jerry Garcia wisely said, choosing the lesser evil is still choosing evil. And small evils that are chosen inevitably become big evils.

[Skwmom]

46. Edwards is the DLC guy. He voted for the war (and was such an

advocate they put his speech on the Whitehouse website), and voted for the bankruptcy bill (and since his wife was a bankruptcy lawyer he sure can't claim stupidity on voting for it).

[redqueen]

61. Edwards is the candidate the M$M ignored after his early 2nd place finish.

I guess you know better than the high $$$$ execs in the M$M.


:shrug:

[Hieronymus]

86. Hillary is without doubt DLC ..

[bvar22]

121. ?

[readmoreoften]

128. And Obama gets high marks from neoconservatives architects Kagan and Kristol

openly admires Reagan-- a man who's campaign popularized the term "welfare queen", who destroyed labor in America, and who's open homophobia fanned the flames of the AIDS crisis.

Obama wants to expand American military presence throughout the globe to "protect our assets", according to his speech at the Council on Foreign Relations.

Please....

[Generator]

149. Not thats WAS not anymore.

He is not on their team. Kerry really wasn't on the DLC team either-total lackluster support from Hillary and Bill the last election. They were waiting Bush out to get Hillary her promised run. And Obama is more in line with the DLC thinking now than Edwards.

Oh and here's the deal. Edwards was WRONG. Voted Wrong. You either believe people even lawyers-even politicians-even good looking guys-can change or you don't. It's a very important idea to my life and why I believe we exist. So I believe he has changed. He has the roots of that in his running with Kerry last time-experiencing that horrible election.
And the horror of Katrina. And his wife's cancer.

If you believe people are just all black and white-always one thing and never another-like Kucinich once was pro-life but evolved. I think Edwards is way outside the D.C. beltway-all of that NOW. He is standing alone, and I'm sure he can't win-but he's the only one really in it that is outside of all of the pundits-all the money, all the Bob shrums and Mark Penns. Don't dare link him to those people. He may have been wrong on a million things but he's not triangulating. He's not third way.

[Renew Deal]

75. Is Edwards corporate Hack #1?

His voting record suggests it. Just look at the bankruptcy bill.

[Peregrine Took]

150. Good one!

[NJSecularist]

3. Well..

It doesn't matter because the Florida primary is meangingless anyways. You should vote for whomever you like the best.

[Demeter]

4. I Voted Uncommitted

as did 45% of the Democrats in Michigan. And there wasn't anything like a reasonable turnout, either.

[Freddie Stubbs]

32. Not an option in Florida:

http://www.miamidade.gov/elections/s_ballots/012908dem-eng.html

[rateyes]

5. What does it matter in Florida? The Democratic Party there

broke the rules. Florida doesn't get delegates.

[onehandle]

6. Were you ever for Edwards? Because it sounds like you weren't. nt

[Catchawave]

59. Yeah " I was for him before I was against him"

:rofl:

[Yael]

135. Don't mistake this person as a supporter. Supporters

support a candidate. Look at me, I'm a rebel people cast votes against one.

[onehandle]

141. Yeah, I know.

Their post is basically a variation of a push poll.

[TomClash]

8. I have the same problem

I lean toward Edwards but might vote for Obama. If Edwards is still in the race after SC, I may still vote for him.

[ChiciB1]

88. I'm Down Here... I Have My Absentee, WILL Vote EDWARDS... But

I have no idea what the hell is going on here anymore! But, even before all the crap, I wasn't sure my vote was going to be counted!!

Still it will be EDWARDS, and if his name ISN'T there for GE, it's only Edwards!

Going out with my convictions anyway!

[Justyce]

9. I think that's what the media wants. nt

[SoFlaJet]

17. yea and their clever plan

is working then. We have been solidly in the Edwards camp for a long time but I'd rather NOT see Hillary get another win "meaningless" or not-I just het the way the Clintons are acting like republicans and Bush/Rove-like tactics-I want my vote to mean something and to see Edwards maybe get 10-15% of the vote is almost like a vote for Kucinich

[ClericJohnPreston]

57. Yeah

so embrace the Repub-lite conciliatory bi-partisan. That makes sense...NOT.

[OneBlueSky]

10. that's precisely what they want you to do . . . n/t

.

[CoffeeCat]

11. I think both Edwards or Obama...

...would be amazing, transformational Presidents.

Edwards might do very well in SC. After his stellar SC-debate performance
last night, he could pick up support. The Nevada caucuses made his support
seem minimal, but really his numbers were probably higher.

A 25-30 percent showing in SC could make Edwards the real "comeback kid".

I'm an Obama supporter, and of course I welcome you aboard!

I know how hard it would be to give up a candidate you support and move on--so
I'm just saying to wait until SC. There still might be hope for Edwards.

Edwards did really well in the debate and Hillary didn't do well. That
may give Edwards an opportunity.

[krabigirl]

12. DO you want my honest opinion? I think you should vote for who you like.

So sad, how the media chooses our candidates based on a couple state's votes, when most other states have not yet voted.

[xchrom]

13. be very proud of how ever you vote. nt

[robbedvoter]

14. No vote is wasted - it's your conscience manifesting politically. If this is right for you

than you should follow your decision.
I am sorry about the mess in Florida - but voters should still exercise their vote seriously - if democracy is to survive.

[Fresh_Start]

16. I'm sticking with Edwards

because Edwards keeps the focus on the people and their problem

Even at the best Obama keeps his focus on the political process, we must bring D&R together.
Actually we don't. We have to fix the problems of our country.
We don't have to fix D&R.
We just have to show D&R they both need improvements in our country
You aren't going to make an R love welfare (unless they need it)
You aren't going to make a D love small government
The parties have laid out different turf

[SoFlaJet]

20. just the thought of a Hillary

nomination troubles me-the Clintons are so hungry to regain power that they will say and do almost anything to get it-and that scares me...just like the people who were behind Bush in 2000 and 2004

[Fresh_Start]

23. I don't live by fear, Edwards is best for what Americans need

so I'm proceeding with Edwards
I believe we will gain in the House and the Senate.
I want a President in power who puts people first if that happens.
I don't want another Centrist like either Clinton or Obama.

[Happyhippychick]

18. You can't waste a vote in a primary.

I would go for Edwards if that is who you want. I have been between Edwards and Obama the whole time and I think I am going Edwards.

[burythehatchet]

19. Its a PRIMARY. There's no such thing as wasting a vote in a primary.

[SoFlaJet]

22. I just don't want

to be partly responsible for Hillary winning in my state...Obama is closer to Edwards IMO

[GalleryGod]

103. Well said.

[splat]

21. Edwards can't win if folks who are for him don't vote for him n/t

[liberal N proud]

28. delete

[AndyA]

24. That's what the powers that be want you to do.

If you like things the way they are, if the Bush years have been good for you, I guess it doesn't matter.

But how do you expect anyone to have a chance if you don't vote for them? Vote for him and give him the delegates, it gives him some leverage. And it sends a message to the others that they don't have your support.

Plus, I think Obama's got a rocky road ahead of him with the Rezko trial starting in February. Rezko is a bad guy with a lot of ties to Barack.

[Freddie Stubbs]

34. I thought that the powers that be wanted Clinton

[redqueen]

26. I think it's sad. This is the intent of their ignoring Edwards,

even after his second-place finish in IA.

And the beat goes on...

[Papagoose]

27. That's very sad

You let the corporate media tell you who to vote for? John Edwards IS a viable candidate, no matter what the talking heads want you to believe. Have you ever questioned WHY the media is ignoring Edwards?

[SoFlaJet]

35. No corporate media is making my decision

we are going with what our heart tells us to do and at this point it's telling us that Edwards (and even HE has admitted it) is a bad bet to win ANY states

[Papagoose]

45. I probably phrased that wrong

I didn't mean for it to sound like I was attacking you.

I think that the reason that people feel Edwards has no shot is due to circular logic. Everybody wants to back a winner - a voter wants to go with Edwards, but sees that most people are voting for someone else, so he goes with the crowd. Why bother holding elections?

In 2004, I lived in a neighborhood where (I thought) most people were voting for Bush. I was a little uncomfortable about it, but I put a John Kerry sign in my yard and waited for what I expected to be a negative reaction from my neighbors. Within a week, two more Kerry signs popped up. Within two weeks, three more appeared. A few days before the election, one of the Bush signs on my street was replaced by a Kerry sign by a voter who had a change of heart.

It takes people willing to make a stand on principle to stop the belief that the best candidate can't win. Obviously there are some candidates that are out of the realm of viability, but Edwards is in this. As long as enough of us hold firm.

[redqueen]

62. "even HE has admitted it" WTF are you talking about?

:wtf:

[SoFlaJet]

82. it was in the papers yesterday

the Edwards campaign admitted it didn't think it would win ONE state

[redqueen]

83. No... the NYT cited "unnamed sources".

Amazing, the credulity.

[Tennessee Gal]

29. Edwards needs every vote he can get in every state.

He is the best candidate.

I voted for him yesterday in early voting.

[giovanna]

37. Go John Edwards

It sucks that the corporate media gets to pick our candidate.

[redqueen]

64. Yes, I agree. It really, really, REALLY sucks.

Welcome to DU, giovanna.

:hi:

[bdamomma]

134. but we are on to the Media and their slimy ways.

well I am supporting Edwards.

[Hello_Kitty]

30. I have the same dilemma.

Edwards is clearly the best on the issues and he does fantastic in the debates. However I have grown to loathe the Clintons and their supporters both online and IRL so much that I can't see straight. The smug air of entitlement that drips off of them is nauseating. I simply cannot deal with 4 to 8 more years of DLC triangulating and gridlock. Obama isn't much better, policywise, but he's likable and electable. He looks like the best chance in my state to defeat Billary.

[tired_old_fireman]

31. This is the main problem with democrats in my opinion

Democratic voters have been jumping on the frontrunners bandwagons in the primaries. The republicans are actually holding an election and continuing to battle test all their candidates. As a result, they should have their strongest general election candidate and we will have the media darling (for now.)

Of course, when our media darling loses her or his shine and has to face a real campaign and real scrutiny, who knows how she or he will hold up? It's a guessing game because unlike republicans, so many democrats bailed on their candidates to vote the front runner so early in the process.

People should remember, our best candidate in decades was Bill Clinton who survived a long primary process and was the better for it.

If you like Obama, vote Obama. If you like Edwards, vote Edwards. That's what I think.

[iris5426]

36. Agreed! Don't let the MSM tell you what to do!! nt

[redqueen]

67. I like the way you think.

:hi:

[soleft]

33. I'm confused. Does the media want Obama or Clinton?

[Freddie Stubbs]

38. Yes

;)

[karlrschneider]

39. They want a Republican. Obama or Clinton, doesn't matter, neither can win the general.

Pretty simple actually.

[Skwmom]

53. Yeah right. They want Clinton and Edwards, the DLC guys. Why do

you think they are constantly showing Clinton's attacks without showing Obama's response? Plus they are pushing the phony populist Edwards. Edwards and Bill Clinton are buds (Edwards defended Clinton in the impeachment).

A lot of people felt that the Bill Clinton in office was not the same Bill (I feel your pain) Clinton that they voted for. Since Clinton couldn't really push the populist message, I think he has set up his good buddy John to deliver that message. They then can put the "progressive" Edwards (whose really running on Feingold's record), on the ticket so that they can get the progressive support in the general election. They can also have Edwards help out Hillary in the primary.

Last night after the debate, they said Edwards went up to Obama in the NH debate at break time and told him that he needed to take Hillary on (and Obama did just that after the break). Amazing how the two guys beating up on Hillary played right into Bill Clinton's spin of Hillary the poor old woman (I can't make her male, I can't make her younger...) and her good buddy Murdoch's unflattering press which was sure to rally women to come out and support Hillary.

I could be wrong but I don't think so. And if Clinton is as smart as they say he is why wouldn't he strike a deal with Hillary's VP and have him run and help her cinch the nomination. I would have. Plus, I think the DLC Clinton gang would really like to pull one over on the progressives and grassroot supporters who they have shown such disdain for.

On Edit: Of course, Clinton could just be playing Edwards for a fool, knowing that Edwards like Clinton would do anything to get in or close to the Whitehouse (VP).

[redqueen]

68. They want Edwards?

You have GOT to be kidding.

Also, if Edwards would do "anything", then he would have ignored Clinton's and Obama's complaints, and spoken before the NAACP, as he was invited to do.

He didn't.

:think:

[Skwmom]

111. Did you ever think the headline was what was wanted?

Everything isn't always as it seems - especially in politics. Just like Edward's rhetoric doesn't match his record.

[redqueen]

113. Trust me, I know.

The GE should be... interesting.

[splat]

42. Lots of man crushes on Obama by media pundits, bloggers n/t

[robbedvoter]

47. Have you noticed too? The unanimity is not suspicious in the least

:eyes:

[soleft]

58. I'm actually noticing this with Olberman, big time

[GalleryGod]

105. I guess I had one-when I was 18.

[Skwmom]

49. MSNBC and CNN have repeatedly run Clinton's attacks against

Obama without running his response. What do you think? Now they are building up Edwards.

[krabigirl]

97. Obama

[asdjrocky]

40. I think you could do a lot better for America-

Good luck. And I'm glad everyone doesn't think like you do.

[Kokonoe]

41. I would vote Edwards

Because if Obama does not win, you just wasted your real vote to make a difference.

[Apollo11]

43. I think Obama is a great candidate.

We should be proud to support him.

Edwards has the smooth talk thing, but Obama talks a lot of sense.

[karlrschneider]

54. Obama? Yeah...if you don't like what he says wait 5 minutes.

...

[we can do it]

148. I Hope You Are Kidding

[sinkingfeeling]

44. So be sure to do exactly as the 'powers that be' demand. The media and pundits have all

ignored Edwards, causing people like you to believe that voting for him would be a waste.

[robbedvoter]

Ignored Edwards and pushing for Obama.

[no name no slogan]

48. It's not a horserace

vote for whomever YOU feel has the best platform and would be the best President.

Settling for the "evil of two lessers" in the primaries does nobody any favors.

[Monty__]

50. I would stick with Edwards

but that's your vote

[Sweet Pea]

51. Smart people

Any vote for Mr "Where's-My-Mirror-I-need-my-blow-dryer" is a waste if you are looking for responsible and honest leadership on the issues of today.

[SoFlaJet]

52. now that's a crock

Edwards is the best on the issues-Hillary Clinton (who I'm willing to bet is YOUR candidate) is George Bush Lite and so are the tactics being employed by her supporters-your response is a perfect example of what Clinton is trying to do to the democratic party...Karl Rove is very proud

[Name removed]

72. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[mnhtnbb]

55. VOTE Edwards!

[zulchzulu]

56. Is there any other reason why you would not vote for Edwards?

Is it just the wasted vote?

[Rydz777]

60. I may vote for Edwards on Super Tuesday (Hillary second

choice.) I don't expect Edwards to get the nomination (though it's not impossible in a brokered convention.) However, I would like Edwards to show up with enough delegates to have leverage, because I think his issues are important.

[Emit]

66. Good thinking, Rydz777!

I wish more people understood this.

[redqueen]

71. Thank you!

:hi:

[dandylion]

79. BINGO!

Finally! Somebody gets it!
Thanks!

[Emit]

65. In the primaries, it's about getting delegates.

Support Edwards - In the primaries, it's about getting delegates.


If more people got off the Obama v. Clinton bandwagon -- you know, the one that the media has created for us, then I think Edwards can garner some more delegates. If he does this, he gets more exposure.

It's about gaining delegates at this point (will Florida's count -- rumor has it they might allow them after all). That logic doesn't apply in primaries.

Stick with Edwards, and encourage all your friends and family to do the same.

Folks, why throw your vote toward the two who have the most delegates this early in the game anyway? Edwards needs your vote. Obama and Clinton do not. Your vote isn't enough to really help Obama -- or hurt Clinton -- or vice versa.

But your vote and any more you can get for Edwards might help to keep Edwards in the game a little longer or even for the long haul.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

69. You're in FL. All votes are wasted.

Like my vote in MI.

So, waste it on who you really want.

:hi:

[Irishonly]

70. The primaries are not a time to go with the lesser of two evils

If you vote for Obama and your conscience is clear, there is no reason to ask anyone what they think. My feeling is the primaries are a time to vote for the candidate of your choice whether you have to write in the name or not. I wouldn't care if my vote didn't count if I wrote in the name. I just refuse to buy into the MSM treatment of Edwards, Kuchinich, Biden, Dodd or Graval.

[OneGrassRoot]

74. Well said, Irishonly....

I am surprised by the stance of many people here at DU, people who are - or are trying to be - informed about the process.

I can understand MSM wanting to shape the race and annoint their candidates before the primary race begins, but for citizens who are progressive and want to engage in the democratic process, I see many people who don't seem to respect the PRIMARY process.

And it's not only about the candidates being allowed to be part of this process, enabling us to learn more about them, but it's about the MESSAGES that finally have a chance to be heard. The more we marginalize candidates, the more we marginalize the messages which deserve a chance to be heard by the American people.

Then again, that's the point for many, eh?

[waiting for hope]

73. Stick with Edwards. eom.

[midlife_mo_Jo]

76. Less difference between Obama and Clinton than between Obama and Edwards

I don't see a lot of difference between Obama and Clinton, so I'm not tempted to jump from Edwards to support one over the other. Instead, I will stick with Edwards to the end, and hope and pray that he has a voice at the convention to move the party towards his more progressive stances. Edwards is winning delegates, and those delegates just may be coveted by Obama or Clinton, giving him a stronger voice.

And since my state votes very late, I do mean I'm sticking to the end!

[Nimrod2005]

77. Same here, live in Florida....Obama all the way!

[Blue_In_AK]

It's your vote - do with it what you want.

I'm sticking with Edwards.

[jackson_dem]

78. How is the bandwagon?

[AtomicKitten]

80. I vote yes on your OP. ;)

[Stop Cornyn]

81. Obama = Hillary. Can you identify 10 critical votes where they both voted but differed? I can't.

[venable]

84. edwards can still win this thing....vote who you believe in

there are a number of scenarios, from unforeseen scandals to a brokered convention turning to Edwards....

give the man you believe in his chance.

[LisaM]

85. I'm an Edwards supporter but if I was switching my vote

it would be to Hillary.

[SoFlaJet]

87. not me

my switching from Edwards to Obama is as much a vote AGAINST Clinton than anything else-and what's with that"secret meeting" after the debate last night? If Edwards drops out and throws his support to HRC I'm gonna be pissed-and proven right

[Emit]

90. But that logic doesn't apply to the Primaries -- Please understand this

Stick with Edwards -- your vote, if Florida is allowed to have their delegates counted -- could give him more delegates. This isn't a GE yet -- so voting against Clinton isn't effective.

Other people have tried to explain this on this thread and other similar threads. Please read what they have to say and vote for Edwards if he's your first choice!

[LisaM]

94. I don't like how Obama is throwing baby boomers under the bus

Screw that. Some of us late boomers (which includes Obama!) feel that we have a few good years left in us. Of course, he doesn't eschew the politics of the 60s when he wants to invoke RFK or MLK Jr. - just good people like Tom Hayden.

[NJObamaWoman]

122. Honestly, I don't think he's trying to throw the baby boomers

under the bus. I think what he is trying to do is something that both Edwards and HRC fail at which is bringing "others" into the party. What this party needs is the republicans who want change, independents, and youth. I really wouldn't be interested in politics or the dem party today if it wasn't for Barack. There are many of us youngsters who just vote the way our parents vote. I know in the past I've done the same during the GE. However I never voted in any of the primaries or local elections. My immidiate family members are dems so I always voted for the dem. candidate. You guys, the baby boomers will still be apart of this party. I doubt that you guys are turning away from politics. But there are many of us (young people) who really need some inspiration to become active in politics. Haven't you seen for the past few years more and more youngster getting involved in politics. Shockingly I've seen alot of youngster become Republicians too especially when Bush was running. Thats what Obama is trying to capitalize on. We youngsters are primed and ready incorporated into the Dem party. Thats what he has been able to do that no one on the dem side really has done lately. Eventually to get anything that the baby boomers want in terms of polices and laws this party is going to have to expand its horizens to the youth, independents and repubs. Eventually you all will be seniors and need US youngsters to help pay for social security. If politicians don't do anything with our terrible education system, all of our American jobs being outsourced then we (young people) wont be able to provide for the baby boomers when they are seniors. I don't want you guys to have worked hard for many decades only to have to struggle when you are seniors.

[LisaM]

123. I'm not old and dead yet! I'm just barely older than Obama!

I'm sure you didn't mean it that way but I find your post incredibly condescending. We will still be "apart" of the party? Oh, gee, thanks. The party needs Republicans? I don't like this truckling to Republicans. They cannot be trusted.

When I got out of college, Reagan was president. It's been downhill ever since and I don't see that the hope of the 1960s was ever fulfilled.

[saracat]

112. You are believing the MSM, after seeing all the media manipulation?

And does it even enter your conciousness to realize that if the meeting, if it even was a meeting, were "secret" you wouldn't "know" about it? This is without a doubt the single strangest reason I have ever hear to change from Edwards.If this is all you have to justify switching from a candidate whose values you endorse to the bandwagon of the so called media created "cool kid",it is very sad.

[Emit]

144. And your vote for Obama won't amount to squat against Clinton

Because, guess what? It's a Primary!

Now, on the other hand, a vote for Edwards can help take away from Clinton's delegate #s, and can help Edwards stay in the game. He's driving the debate, and has been for some time now.

I fail to see your logic. You're falling for the trap -- Don't let the MSM pick the two candidates for us.

[Yael]

137. Bwahahaha!

And Lisa just cancelled you out. Just think if you both voted JRE -- where we would end up.

Lisa :thumbsup:

[Emit]

145. Exactly!

:)

[demo dutch]

155. Thank you

[goodhue]

89. I too am considering such a switch for my February 5th poll

For many months now I had been planning to vote for Edwards on February 5th. But I feel strongly that Hillary should not be our nominee and so a vtoe for Obama may be best strategy. On the other hand I could just vote my heart and vote for Dennis Kucinich.

[Emit]

91. Please read all the posts about voting in Primaries

This logic of voting against a candidate is not wise in the Primaries, IMO. It's about gaining delegates.

[redqueen]

93. *sigh*

Thanks for trying.

:hi:

[SoFlaJet]

100. It's just the way I'm reading it

I know some disagree with our thinking here goodhue but having Hillary win only increases her coverage in the MSM,and the air of in inevitability -I think she's the WORST candidate we could throw out there-so since it isn't going to be Al Gore and it isn't going to be John Edwards I'm voting for Obama so that (hopefully) it ISN'T HRC

[Emit]

138. It's a PRIMARY

You're reading it wrong. Please try to comprehend what a primary is, as many others have tried to point out here.

Go with Edwards -- if he's your first choice.

[saracat]

116. This is why we can't ever have change in this nation. Obama doesn't represent change any more than

Hillary. Hillary and Obama are interchangable.You are given a chance for real change and you vote for someone whose only claim to real "change" is skin tone? Wow.just Wow.

[Yael]

136. It is a PRIMARY. One vote is not "strategy" in a primary.

*sigh*

[SoonerShankle]

92. Why is it a waste to vote for who you want?

I have always viewed the primary as the place to vote my conscience, even if the race has already been decided delegates-wise.

In 2004, California's primary wasn't until June. John Kerry has sealed up the nomination by that point, and my candidate had already pulled out of the race. I voted for my candidate anyway. I had vowed to vote for the person that I thought would do the job best, and I stuck to it. I didn't allow the media or other voters to sway me. I did support Kerry in the general election with fervor too. So even though my candidate was doomed as far as winning the nomination, I never felt as though I wasted my vote. I voted for the best person in my opinion.

btw/ my candidate this time is Edwards. And I will vote for him on February 5th regardless of whether I think he'll win or not. I believe in his platform and the dialogue he's generating on domestic issues.

[TommyO]

95. Why does it matter what anybody else thinks?

Personally, I'm going for Edwards if he's still running when the Pennsylvania primary rolls around. If he's not the nominee, I'll vote for Clinton or Edwards in the presidential election.

[Yael]

133. Because one can get attention by venting on the interwebs?

[SoFlaJet]

154. There are some real friggin jerkoffs

responding in this thread-I'm getting sick of the way this primary season is tearing our party apart-I really am trying not to hate you Hillary supporters which in turn makes me hate your candidate but you're making it hard-who needs attention on the interwebs? This is all anonymous you idiot

[Indenturedebtor]

96. Voting for Edwards

Whether he wins or doesn't get to be our GE candidate, is a vote for his policies.

Doing as you say, though understandable, is the same thing that "moderate" democrats do as they take on the mantle of Repukelicanism. They believe that these policy stances will get them more money so that they can at least effect SOME change when they get into power. But ultimately they are simply surrendering to the darkside.

Edwards is waging his campaign with no help from the evil ones. Don't tell him and any that might come after him that he's a fool for doing so. A president that doesn't cater to corporations at all may be the only hope that this country has of being great again. It's important that we at least show our corporate masters that we don't wear their yoke with a smile.

[redqueen]

98. "we don't wear their yoke with a smile"

Hah... I like that.

:hi:

[midnight]

99. I think I'm staying with Edwards........You will not waste your

vote if voting for Edwards. That is if equality is important to you......

[GalleryGod]

101. Thanks!

[lisainmilo]

102. I think you are wrong.

[Mrspacker]

104. Show some gumption!

My God, it is NOT a wasted vote. Please reconsider! You can always vote for whoever ends up the Democratic candidate in Nov., should it not be Edwards. But show some gumption in the primaries and stick to the candidate with the best policies and ideas - Edwards!

[redqueen]

114. Well said!

:hi:

[Dante_]

107. I think it doesn't matter to me who you vote for. Staying home is an option

seriously, it is.

[asdjrocky]

110. I think you're in the wrong place-

To post stuff like that. Think about it. People on DU are deeply commited people, staying home should never be an option.

[Dante_]

117. Why not? Staying home is always an option.

To say a site is not for somebody is as undemocratic as it gets. To post stuff like that? Please...read the posts here. This place is full of stuff you could pick on. Pick away.

[asdjrocky]

119. Stay home if you'd like-

I prefer to be engaged in what happens to my country.

But you're right. You can do whatever you like. I didn't mean to insult you, it's just my opinion.

[Dante_]

124. thanks. I thought you were arguing in favor of groupthink. btw, I almost never stay home

I have not voted in a few local and maybe one or two Presidential elections. I forget. But I have been active in Democratic circles and even there at the start of a few progressive campaigns to change things. I have mostly washed my hand of the Progressive Movement in America.

They are often anathema to Liberalism as I know it.

--

and seriously, thank you for apologizing,

I apologize back

[bdamomma]

142. now that would be throwing away your vote, staying home

bad enough they are spying on us, do you really want them to take our privilege to vote be taken away??? even more. We need to fight back and have the numbers of people out there and to vote. This is my opinion.

[CyberPieHole]

109. And you "decided" this after yesterday's debate? When Edwards REALLY came across as viable?

It's your vote...but I find it hard to believe that you "decided" this sometime in the recent past.

[redqueen]

115. The timing is very odd... (nt)

[SoFlaJet]

120. I don't watch these debates

no it's just something I've been thinking long and hard about-I don't take these things lightly and am insulted that some think I'd be that easily manipulated by the press. It was something my wife and I have been discussing and are following our hearts on-I REALLY don't like what I'm seeing from the Clintons and feel Obama is a better option-remember I'm a Gore for president first guy-have been for 8 years now and an Edwards (if it isn't going to be Gore) guy since around 2002-also I loved John Kerry and am still pissed at the way Hillary threw him under the bus-I haven't gotten over that one-so this change of heart has as much to do with who i like as much as it does who I DON'T like,and Hillary friggin aggravates me...

[whosinpower]

126. Edwards needs your vote now more than ever

Don't abandon him just because you don't like Hillary. If he is your first choice - then stick with him - and he will stick with you....or else his ideas and policies will be sent to the far back corner and forgotten - that is unfair to you, him and your country.

I'm a simple canuck looking on....an outsider, so take what I say with a grain of salt - but after watching the debate last night - Edwards would make a fabulous president....and you gang really really really need a fabulous president. If I was a leader of a country - I would quake at the negotiating table sitting across from Edwards - not because he is intimidating - he isn't....but I would probably find myself happily aquiesing to everything he says because he is so smooth. He makes his points in nonconfrontational ways that people find themselves nodding their heads and agreeing with.

[demo dutch]

156. Vote for Edwards, candidates may attend the FAU debate , and if they do, you know

they might get seated, so Edwards will need all the help he can get. If anything, Florida is important the momentum will help him
http://www.news4jax.com/politics/15005289/detail.html
http://www.fladems.com/content/w/democratic_primary_does_matter

[Rowdyboy]

125. We have 3 good candidates-take your pick....I'm sticking with Edwards because I believe in him

You of course are free to back your choice.

[readmoreoften]

129. Great, the neoconservative movement will be pleased with your choice.

And what if Saint Obama actually turns out to be to the RIGHT of Clinton?

Google Kagan's Washington Post article "Obama the Interventionist". Then google Kagan.

[Yael]

130. You have just lost the right to complain about the system being unfair

or Edwards not doing well in various competitions as you had the chance to stand up and be counted, and you punted.

I put that in the same camp that voted Nadar in 2000 and then complained that Gore didn't get a fair shot.

[femmedem]

132. Especially because you live in Florida it makes sense to vote your true first choice.

If you prefer Edwards, why not send a message about what's important to you, since no one will be getting Dem delegates in your state anyway?

[bobbolink]

140. As a person in poverty who desperately needs Edwards, I implore you to vote for him!

I can't make it without someone in the Oval Office speaking for me, and Edwards is the only one doing that.

Please read post #63!

[Lucinda]

143. If you like Edwards I say vote for him. I do think the delegates will be seated

and he will have a say in what happens at the convention.

[Lorien]

146. I'm voting Edwards in Florida. I'm not going to go along with the MSM on

this one. I see no real difference between Hillary and Obama except style. I like Kucinich better than any of them-but Edwards is slightly less of a corporate water bearer than the other two and at least he has a slim chance of getting the nomination.

[we can do it]

147. If Everybody Keeps Letting the Media Tell Them Who Is Viable Or Not

They will get who the media wants them to choose, come on you should know that by now. And exactly how is your vote "wasted" if you vote for the best choice?

[Vincardog]

151. Go Vote for Huckelberry. IF you have to throw your vote away why not have fun with it?

[JDPriestly]

152. I would vote for Edwards no matter what.

I am 100% behind his issues. He knows what he is talking about. He has a clear view, untainted by debts to corporate donors. I would not be able to vote for anyone other than Edwards.

[citizen snips]

153. Was Florida stripped of its delegates?

[swati]

157. WHY NOT TO VOTE FOR OBAMA

HILLARY IS NEXT IN LINE IN TERMS OF PROGRESSIVE. OBAMA IS THE MOST RIGHT-LEANING CANDIDATE. SEE ALL THE RATINGS BY ALL THE PROGRESSIVE GROUPS. EVEN THE DEBATES HAVE SHOWN THAT THEY ARE MUCH MORE IN SYNC THAN OBAMA..ALSO..CONSIDER READING ALL ABOUT THE BANK-INDUSTRY'S LOBBYING OF OBAMA SINCE DAY ONE OF HIS POLITICAL CAREER IN ILLINOIS AND HOW MUCH HE HAS DONE FOR THEM IN RETURN...INCLUDING THE REAL REASON HE VOTED AGAINST THE INTEREST CAP (ONE THAT EDWARDS CALLED HIM ON DURING THE DEBATE LAST NIGHT).. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/1/22/277/50113/463/4... INFACT, KEEP SCROLLING TILL YOU SEE THE ONE ENTITLED: Why Barack Obama Lied Last Night in South Carolina...I READ IT EARLIER IN THIS FORUM. IT'S ON PAGE 4 RIGHT NOW..AS I WRITE THIS. OBAMA IS A RIGHT-LEANING IN DEMOCRATIC CLOTHING. IT'S ALL GOING TO SPILL OUT SOON ENOUGH. SO HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR VOTING DECISION..PLEASE.

[mistertrickster]

158. He can't win. He's a spoiler. If he doesn't have a good showing in SC,

stick a fork in him, he's done.

[jannyk]

159. We're voting Edwards even if we have to write him in - while

he is in the running he has our fullest support. Remember, Bill Clinton did't win any of the early primaries either - yet he went on to win the WH - it's no where near over yet, despite media hype to the contrary.

John is still a very viable candidate and is looking stronger as each day passes - the other two are not doing so well under 'fire' but John excels. Please vote your conscience, vote for the best candidate, vote for real change - vote for John Edwards.

If John does not eventually win the nomination, I trust him to bestow his delegates to the candidate he feels is best qualified to win. John will not let us down - don't let him down - please