Edwards to quit presidential race

[DeepModem Mom]

Source: AP

By NEDRA PICKLER, Associated Press Writer

DENVER - Democrat John Edwards is exiting the presidential race Wednesday, ending a scrappy underdog bid in which he steered his rivals toward progressive ideals while grappling with family hardship that roused voter's sympathies but never diverted his campaign, The Associated Press has learned.

The two-time White House candidate notified a close circle of senior advisers that he planned to make the announcement at a 1 p.m. EST event in New Orleans that had been billed as a speech on poverty, according to two of his advisers. The decision came after Edwards lost the four states to hold nominating contests so far to rivals who stole the spotlight from the beginning — Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

DENVER (AP) — Democrat John Edwards exited the presidential race Wednesday, ending a scrappy underdog bid in which he steered his rivals toward progressive ideals while grappling with family hardship that roused voters'sympathies but never diverted his campaign, The Associated Press has learned.

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080130/ap_on_el_pr/edwards_4

---

This is sad news not only to Edwards supporters, some of the finest people on our board, but to all Democrats. Good thoughts to all at DU who carried his banner, and kept hope and his ideas alive -- and to John, Cate, Emma Claire, Jack, and our good friend Elizabeth.

[Alter Ego]

1. Depending on where his supporters go, this could be very, very interesting.

[Dulcinea]

120. What a shame.

I was planning to vote for him next week! Maybe I still will!

There are only 2 reasons I can think of that he'd drop out:

1. Elizabeth's health has taken a turn for the worse, heaven forbid.

2. He's made a deal for a cabinet post or AG w/ Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama. Stay tuned...plenty more to come, no doubt.

[MBS]

140. I hadn't seen Elizabeth lately, and had wondered about her health . . .

I hadn't been following their every move, so what I perceived as Elizabeth's recent apparent quiet could just be an artifact of what the media chose to cover (that is, per usual, not much) and/or what I happened to catch on the MSM. .
I do hope she's OK.

[Gloria]

196. My concern as well re: Elizabeth.....This is such bad news but on

the bright side, I can vote for him on Tues. and write him in in November! And relax the rest of the time...since I have no interest in the other two. I've reached the end of my time voting for people I don't really want to vote for....

[coalition_unwilling]

249. Have you read Obama's anti-war speech pre-March 2003?? Just

wondering . . . Obama took a very politically risky tack (he out McCained McPain) when being against the war posed the real possibility of political suicide. Remember that immediately after the invasion began, support for it reached approximately 70%.

[Gloria]

289. I am unimpressed by many other things...it's not just the war...

it's his being "uninvested" in the struggles of the 60s-70s that we are still dealing with...his lack of historical reference, his lack of appreciation for us "older" voters....it's telling that MLK III wanted JE to stay in the race and the J Jackson hasn't offered enthusiastic support. Then there is his petulance; then there is his lifelong use of the bargainer strategy (quote: "if you're not angry, they'll like you...") which reminds me of Bill Clinton...; and, of course, where his money comes from and his dealings with Rezko.

Been there, done that. No more.

[TooBigaTent]

306. Obama's abandonment/"uninvestment" of/in the struggles of the 60's reminds

me of another - Clarence Thomas. Now that he's got his, it no longer matters.

BO is just too flawed in so many ways that if he wins the White House, he will set the progressive/liberal agenda back even further than the pukes have because he will compromise away everything he has to in reaching out to the right. People will be placated a bit and the opportunity for real progress will have been lost.

Not that Clinton would be much, if any, better.

[kaygore]

330. I agree

We need to now work to get liberal candidates elected to the House and Senate, even if it means eating pandering DINOs. Let HC and OB fight it out without us and see how far they get. The far right stayed home from voting for a second Bush term. Maybe we should refrain from voting for candidates that are little more that Republicans in Democrats' clothing.

I am so disappointed about Edwards! As long as he was running, our voice was getting heard.

[sloppyjoe25s]

341. Obama vastly more Liberal voter than Edwards

Edwards ran as and was a right of center democrat in the Senate.

I'm glad Edwards "converted to liberal views" to run for prez - but Obama has been there from day 1.

Don't get me wrong - I think Edwards is sincere now, and I hope he can be very effective making poverty a central issue - but the facts of his Senate run and record, and his Iraq war vote are still clear.

I'm not impressed with Edwards support of 'Bankruptcy Reform' that hurt the poor (Billary Clinton supported it as well) - "No Credit Card Company Left Behind"

Don't slam O - just because he can reach out to so many who are otherwise not even participants - that is a HUGE strength.

Obama has most liberal voting record in the Senate - Period. And yet he can reach across the aisle and get things done. That is nothing short of AMAZING.

"Now that Obama has his he doesn't care?" - That is nonsense. Obama is BY FAR our best hope for real progressive change.


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com

[alllyingwhores]

435. It's a WIN, WIN, WIN, WIN, WIN, WIN, WIN, WIN for Corporate America!

If Corporate America through the corporate media convinces 1 to 5% of American "voters" that Obama is Islamic, then McCain is selected--Corporate America WINS.

If Obama wins the nomination and the corporate media and corporate voting selection decides that 1 to 5% of American "voters" are racist, then McCain is selected--Corporate America WINS.

Or, the fact that at least 10% (more likely 20%) of American voters are actually racist, then McCain is selected--Corporate America WINS.

If Clinton wins the nomination and the corporate media and corporate voting selection decides that a 1 to 5% of American "voters" are sexist, then McCain is selected--Corporate America WINS.

Or, the fact that at least 10% (more likely 20%) of American voters are actually sexist, then McCain is selected--Corporate America WINS.

If Corporate America through the corporate media convinces 1 to 5% of American "voters" that Clinton is a DINO (not a hard sell), then McCain is selected--Corporate America WINS.

If Clinton wins the nomination and is selected President--Corporate America WINS.

Any combination of the above--Corporate America WINS.

[sloppyjoe25s]

337. Check your Facts - Edwards supported Bush on Bankruptcy

Both Edwards and Clinton supported the Bush 'Reform' of Bankruptcy

"No Credit Card Company Left Behind"

Obama opposed it. Rightly. Few laws have done more to hurt the poor and even struggling middle class in recent years. Now if you are driven to financial ruin by Cancer - even though you had 'Insurance' - you might as well leave the country or kill yourself.

My wife has a chronic pain condition. We make a good living, but our insurance premiums are so high we barely break even on medical, and can't affor the Surgery (not approved by the PPO) that she needs. If we got her the Surgery - we too would flirt with Bankruptcy.

Edwards voted for the war - co-sponsored the resolution in fact. Clinton voted for it too. She was already planning how to "look like more of a hawk" for the general election - her usual always political self.

The war is the reason for our balooning debt to the Chinese and declining dollar - sky high oil. It has crippled us - the economy and the war are one and the same issue.

While Edwards was voting as a right of center Senator on issue after issue - Obama was organizing and fighting for the voting rights of poor people. Sounds like he understands the struggles to me.

"Bargainer Strategy?" - Are you out of your mind? Obama is not bargaining with people - he is reaching out to litterally hundreds of thousands of apathetic people who had totally lost interest in politics. He is harnessing a tremendous amount of new power - and at any age (I'm a crotchety 39 year old myself - almost too old to go to an Obama rally) - you can be part of that. How old is Ted Kennedy again? Oh I forgot - to you he's probably a 'traitor'.

Obama has the most liberal voting record in the Senate - Period. It may be what ultimately gets him in trouble that he has actually put his vote where his mouth is for liberal issues. Watch-dog groups have MEASURED his voting record as more liberal than that of Dennis Kucinich.

"Where his money comes from?" - Ummm... You are WAY off base here. He has raised more from small doners than ANY CANDIDATE IN US HISTORY. PERIOD. I'm one of them pitching in a meager $35 bucks. If you want to critique money sources look no farther than Billary - endorsed by more lobbyists than any candidate - Republican or Democrat,

"Dealings with Rezcko??" Are you kidding?? He worked on a case he was told to work on by the senior partners as a Junior Associate at a law firm. The actual client was a Church Group, and he and his wife bought a piece of land next to their house. OMG - HOW EVIL.

Write in Edwards if you choose - I think he would be much more effective becomming the "Al Gore of Poverty" - but PLEAZ don't miss-represent Obama please.

If you feel under represented by Obama because you are older - PLEAZZZ CALL MY MOM - she is a die-hard Kucinich supporter - who liked Edwards alot - She is 73 and is now fully backing Obama - and going to his rally - despite having to watch out for all the crazy young "myspace hooligans" who ar supporting Obama. Or PLEAZZ CALL MY DAD - who is a Socialist and was a personal friend of Michael Harrington and fought for the poor in New York in the 50's and as a doctor for Single Payer health care for his whole life - and now supports Obama.

Obama - BY FAR the most transcendental, brilliant, and inspiring politician of my lifetime. (I was born in 1969, white, - and hold 3 masters degrees in business, engineering, and computer science.)

I'm worried though that older voters don't get him... just because he does get young people... if they nominate Hillary... it will be a bleak bleak day indeed...

[Gloria]

501. I know my facts....

I also know that Edwards votes as he went along shifted and not everybody has perfect votes. I know that Obama himself said he now didn't know how he would have voted on Iraw and also know that Obama takes big corporate bucks NOW and that since the age of 14 he figured out that ""if you're not angry, they'll like you..." That smacks of something eerily familiar to me. He's also shown himself to be sullen, which is the worst of Bush. The combo is unappealing and unconvincing. Before he took his Senate oath, he signed his book deal to circumvent ethics rules, as, I believe, Hillary did. He is not transcendent anything. It's telling that MLK III wanted JE to stay in the race. Obama reminds me of Ken Blackwell...gets to be Sec. of State, then hampers black voters. What good is that??
The image of change is meaningless.

If Obama hadn't run, we would have had a clear difference to see between Edwards and Clinton. Instead, we now have two corporate peas in a pod, with the one telling the Las Vegas paper that he's not "invested" in the struggles of the 60s-70s....News alert: we're still fighting those issues to this day. The lack of historical perspective is very disheartening. To see it after 8 years of Bush is even more sickening!

[sloppyjoe25s]

512. Out To Lunch

Dude... can i have some of the coffee you are drinking?

Obama is invested in the fights of today.

The entire narrative since the 60's has been written by the right-wing. Whatever the struggles were - and I probably know more about them than you do. The point is most Americans see the 60's through the lense handed to them by Ronnie RayGun. They see it that way because the left failed to win, again and again and again. We now face an incredibly well organized, well funded, well managed and incredibly sophisticated right-wing network -- ONE THAT IS ALSO FIGHTING FOR TODAY'S AMERICANS -- and you lament the loss of your Edwards, and dribble for Billary -- the poster boy/girl of failure, status-quo Washington.

We have to get real and fight in the real world. Attract real average americans with sound ideas and sound policies.

Keep living the 60's and keep on losing. You will be complicit in the continued decline of the country.

Vote Obama and you can be part of changing this country for the better.

[depakid]

547. "Obama is invested in the fights of today." -Yep. Pandering to fundies

and lauding Ronald Reagan, while denigrating Democratic ideas.

Enabling and legitimizing the far right and their mythology- just the sort of investment one would hope for.

[9119495]

355. I feel your frustration...

but regardless of my feelings about any of the Dems, I know I don't want anymore Scalias' or Thomas' on my Supreme Court. That alone is worth a D vote in November.

I don't want to be rude, but if we don't fight the republican party, I think we are complicit in what this nation becomes.

[krkaufman]

490. Yes, however much I'd like to purge Clinton control of the Democratic Party ...

... the US Supreme Court is not something that could be turned-around quickly after the next election, in 2012, if a Republican is in place to appoint court members for the next four years.

[ginnyinWI]

206. That was my first thought, too.

He just said he was going all the way to the convention. And now this comes out of the blue. Best wishes for the Edwards family.

[sloppyjoe25s]

348. All Our Best Wishes to Edwards and his Family

they waged an honorable and decent campaign

[CountAllVotes]

366. I'd seen a picture of Elizabeth after the So. Carolina election

and she did not look well at all. Maybe this is one of the reasons Edwards is dropping out?

:(

I was going to vote for Edwards and then changed my mind and voted for Obama several days ago.

My best wishes go to John & Elizabeth Edwards. They are both a couple of fine people IMO.

[calimary]

381. Me, too! Hey, Edwards supporters: my sincere condolences - he's quite

wonderful, and I was (and still am) undecided. I found him very appealing, especially while Clinton and Obama have been behaving in - um - shall we say less-than-desirable fashion?

I SALUTE YOU GUYS!!! Yes, I'm SHOUTING!!! You picked a TERRIFIC candidate!!! I'm sorry he didn't make more inroads. He would have carried you and all the rest of us straight to the White House if he'd been given half a chance and hadn't been bigfooted by the two Democratic "rock stars."

He waged a noble campaign. STILL DOES! I suspect that, as long as he walks the earth, he'll be speaking out for the poor and the disenfranchised. He's been the champion of the people who, up til now, didn't have anybody speaking out for them or making them a top priority. I hope he plays a prominent role in the next (Democratic) administration. He's too good to remain on the outside.

And I LOVE Elizabeth Edwards. I hope she stays well for a long time. John's gonna need her strength and support, especially now. He needs it from all of us, I think.

[surfermaw]

520. Why did we pick a terrible candidate, we picked the best candidate

however the corporate media wasn't going to let him win the election. On the other thoughts, is the republican picked one of the others and I am fairly sure stuffed the candidates pockets with money to run on...but that candidate I don't think will Win. You can fool some of the people some of the time part fo the people part of the time but you can't fool all the people all the time and this old girl have lived long enough to figure which one is on the republican take....

[ursi]

145. why did he wait until Clinton did Florida?

[Stewie]

292. He waited until Florida to take attention away from her "win"

And put it back on Obama, since his supporters will largely go that way as well as all the speculation he'll endorse him. He probably decided after South Carolina but waited until today to soften any momentum and media coverage she got.

[krkaufman]

493. Yeah, I was wondering that. Though his speech indicates ...

... he's not throwing in with either campaign (e.g. "I've received assurances from both candidates that ending poverty will be central to their campaigns").

p.s. Nice icon. Miss her.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

152. This one may not vote at all, for the 1st time in my life.

[INdemo]

298. Its time for a progressive third party

a no vote though is a vote for the Republicans...

[eowyn_of_rohan]

382. Not convinced there is much of a difference and not sure I care

given the results of the past 2 elections

[Oak2004]

388. Yes it is -- I'm a member of one -- but don't think it will work to run a presidential

candidate without first building a party from the ground up.

I'm a proud member of the Vermont Progressive Party -- even served on my City Committee for a while. As near as I can (with the occasional exception), I vote Progressive, in primaries and in the general. VPP has spent years building a party that can and does win races throughout Vermont. Our Legislature has, for example, three party caucuses -- D, R, and P. Even where we're not competitive our existence has the effect of driving the political debate to the left. Democrats, especially, fear us, because they know that if they don't satisfy the left wing of their party, they'll just desert to us Ps.

But I'm a political realist. You build parties precinct by precinct, district by district, not from the top down. No left wing party in America today has built itself up enough to compete at a national level. When it comes to presidential politics and uncontested (by Ps) state and local seats, I'm a Democrat. I don't like Hillary and I'm suspicious of Obama, but come November, I'm going to cast my vote for one of them, even if I have to hold my nose to do it.

Yeah, we desperately need an alternative to the RepubliCrats. Yeah, I'm sick of having to vote while holding my nose for people whose only asset in my eyes is that they aren't frank Fascists who promise us more war crimes and more poverty. But we will never get that alternative by voting for *any* of the existing third party left candidates for the presidency. We will get it only by local organizing, to build a new party or to build up an existing party.

If you want an alternative to a RepubliCrat in 2008,you're out of luck, so vote for the Democrat. If you want an alternative to a RepubliCrat in 2012 or beyond, then today is the day you (waiting for The Leader to arise to do it for you won't work) need to start laying the groundwork for (pick one) a strong locally based left of center third party or transforming the Democratic Party.

[INdemo]

481. Nice post...When we start organizing this party it has to be done in an

off election year because if not than voters would look at this as a way of giving the voters a "none of the above" choice..So yes it has to be built from the ground up and must appeal to all parties that are fed up with corporations and lobbyists running this country. It can be done. The party of FDR and JFK doesn't exist anymore and politicians of today fear being called a liberal or a "leftist".
What changed politics forever is the corporate media and the fact that the corporate Republicans have gained so damn much power in the last seven years they are able to choose the nominees of both parties and even elect the candidate of their choice either by theft or funding a particular candidate with millions.I honestly believe that this year we will face another election theft because this corporate power house fears losing some of their grip.

[DutchLiberal]

464. And that's why the Democratic Party will never change: they know you will all vote for the nominee

anyway.

[krkaufman]

495. Sadly, our Presidential election process doesn't lend itself ...

... to third party runs. For a third party to gain traction, we'll have to start at the local level and then state. We also need to get Instant Runoff Voting implemented, so voters can vote their conscience without having to fear that they will help nominate their least preferred candidate.

[ihavenobias]

179. As An Edwards Guy: I REALLY Hope This Helps Obama

Well, it'll be interesting to see how this plays out for Obama. I can only hope (as an Edwards supporter #1) that it helps him, because the thought of not only having my #1 choice drop-out, but then for it to somehow help Hillary? I can't stomach that. Although based on polls I've seen (and the reaction on the web/radio), Obama *should* benefit at least slightly from this. But only time will tell.

And I also hope his progressive rhetoric/positions continue to influence both Obama and Hillary, especially knowing that they'll likely become more conservative when we get to the general election. The last thing we need is a watered down centrist to help move the country from far-to-the-right to "right of center".

Unless people think the war, Patriot Act/spying and massive tax cuts (and on and on) were somehow "moderate" things to begin with.

[grantcart]

282. it is now the only way

[INdemo]

296. Well I'll vote for the nominne but its too bad that in our election system

I just believe that the Republican corporate power group has a library of files on Hillary and the corporate media is ready with their script's.I fear the tools are already in place to steal another election and with McCain,well he's just a corporate clone of GW..and corporate America has much more to lose than an election..lets just hope we can overcome the voting fraud by the Repukes.
With Edwards out it makes me wonder,with the power that these corporations have gained with * if we will ever be able to elect a progressive Democrat. I think the timing is right for a third party and it must be more than a party that gives voters a protest vote against both major candidates..

[ChiciB1]

311. My Wish Is that He Endorses NO ONE!! Neither Deserve His Support...

But he's much more of a "stand up" guy than I am a woman, so IO suppose he'll do something!!

BIG POWER, MEDIA and BIG MONEY screwed him over!! America, American People.... BEWARE!!

It must have something to do with Elizabeth, and I can't imagine what he must be going through! His emails have been so upbeat, and they were just about to reach a record breaker for donations. All I can think is that it's Elizabeth!

I'm crying right now, this is such a "horrible, horrible" thing to happen to him! I'll NEVER forget him! Maybe not a shot in the head like Bobby, but if he loses Elizabeth, what a smack in the face!!

Is there REALLY a God?? They say what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, I don't want to be there ever again! I've had it my own family, but my heart is so so so very heavy with HURT for him! What can we do FOR HIM??

I will vote for him, no matter what! I WILL NOT vote for anyone else. End to my politics as an activist anyway!

[sloppyjoe25s]

451. Don't Cry - Edwards wants you to fight on - and he will too

Hey - very seriously. Edwards just made his speech, and his #1 message was DON'T GIVE UP ON THE ISSUES. Vote for Change.

He is right. He is going to fight on - and so should you.

He can become more powerful than ever before if he can transform himself into the "Al Gore of Poverty" - Maybe you can help him?

Don't give up. The right wing is incredibly well organized, sophisticated, well funded, well managed, and determined. They are building long-lasting infrastructure nationwide to reach real average americans with poisonous right wing ideas. We need equal organization, and intelligence to continue to fight them.

PLEASE - do NOT give up, and vote your heart!

[cottonseed]

433. I agree with you on this one.

My reasons for Obama over Hillary is that I'm not really sure if I can handle a general election in which all we talk about is how the terrorists want to kill our families and which countries we should blow up next. It's a depressing thought. I'm not sure if hope is a fairy tale, but I'm sure as hell not going for despair.

[surfermaw]

521. Obama thinks it is going to help him, but I don't think it will

For my part I hope they all go to HIllary..

[golddigger]

534. Yep, totally agree with you surfermaw...

I will still vote for Edwards in the primary and of what i've heard so far from other Edwards supporters they will too. Which will siphon votes from Obama. That's my 0.02 cents for whatever it is worth.:hi:

[bdamomma]

2. this is a joke isn't it?

[seriousstan]

3. Nope

[underpants]

4. IS THERE ANY CONFIRMATION?

:shrug:

[still_one]

7. I just saw it on the news crawl on Bloomberg /nt

[TCJ70]

33. ABC just reported the same thing on the radio here n/t

[gamblingisforlosers]

98. John Edwards to quit '08 race

Former Sen. John Edwards is quitting the Democratic race for president, two sources inside his campaign told CNN Wednesday. The former senator is expected to make an announcement in New Orleans at 1 p.m., the same city where his White House bid began. Edwards has finished behind Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama in key primary races. developing story

http://www.cnn.com/:-(

[Ghost Dog]

229. John Edwards abandona la carrera por la candidatura demócrata a la Casa Blanca

La carrera se acabó para John Edwards. El ex senador de Carolina del Sur ha anunciado hoy que retira su candidatura para la nominación demócrata a la Casa Blanca, después de haber perdido todas las primarias celebradas hasta ahora, incluso la de su propio estado natal.

La contienda queda ahora reducida a los dos principales candidatos, el senador por Illinois, Barack Obama, y la senadora por Nueva York, Hillary Clinton, que se verán las caras en la jornada electoral más importante hasta ahora, el supermartes.

El comité de campaña de Edwards ha confirmado que el ex senador hará el anuncio oficial de su retiro a las 18.00 GMT.

/... http://www.elpais.com/articulo/internacional/John/Edwards/abandona/carrera/candidatura/democrata/Casa/Blanca/elpepuint/20080130elpepuint_13/Tes

[DeepModem Mom]

I'm so sorry to all Edwards supporters -- no it's not a joke. nt

[sueh]

368. Thanks, DeepModem Mom.

I appreciate your kindness.:hug:

[likesmountains 52]

5. Crap, I hope this is not true

[LibDemAlways]

184. This is awful. I've been depressed the past couple of days and

this is exactly what I don't need to wake up to. Now I have to choose between corporate sell-out A and B or sit home.

[Ghost Dog]

240. Look again? That the Clintons are corporate sell-outs, I can see. But

to say that Barack Obama will turn out to be the same, I'm just not seeing that information (maybe I'm looking in the wrong places) so far... Convince me of this?

[LibDemAlways]

263. Follow the money.

Go to OpenSecrets.Org and check out who his big donors are.

[Ghost Dog]

290. Sure. One thing is the (potentially deeply corrupt) campaign finance system,

which Obama has said he wants to change; something else will be the policies pursued once in power.

I haven't seen Obama hanging out with the usual corporate cronies the way the Clintons have all these years...

How big a millionaire is he supposed to be, anyway?

[coalition_unwilling]

267. Do you honestly think Obama is a "corporate sell out"???? Have

you bothered to read his anti-war speech before the Iraq war began???

Obama took a very politically risky tack (he out McCained McPain), when being against the war posed the real possibility of political suicide. Remember that immediately after the invasion began, support for it reached approximately 70%.

[LibDemAlways]

319. I checked out Open Secrets to see where his big money

is coming from, and I'm not impressed.

Obama was an Illinois State Senator when he made his anti-war speech. As a US Senator he's continually voted to fund it.

Thanks, but no thanks.

[sloppyjoe25s]

372. Check Facts - Obama fought against war - and has most small $$ donors

He has raised more $$ from small donors like me than any candidate in US History. I pitched in a meager $35.

Billary has more lobbyist endorsements than any candidate - Democrat or Republican - and vocally supports drug-company lobbyists as "the voice of real Americans" - and Billary organizes $1000 a plate luches for drug company lobbyists to "get to know" the people who write the laws.

Obama fought for and passed ethics reform.

Obama fought bitterly to get a plan for withdrawal from Iraq - but when it was clear it would not pass - he voted once to fund our troops.

Second funding bill for the war - he voted against. Just like Billary.

Billary Clinton however voted "With Conviction" (laugh) for the initial war resolution - even though she now admits she "Didn't READ the intelligence reports" - she wanted to "look hawkish" for her long-planned run for the white house.

Get your facts straight. Obama is the greatest candidate of my lifetime. His record on this war is SPOTLESS.

If we nominate Billary - we are on a road straight down down down down down...


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com

[LibDemAlways]

374. I'm not voting for Hillary either. Neither of them has much of a

chance of being elected in the fall against McCain anyway. This country is too goddamned sexist and racist for that. I'm bookmarking this thread and plan to take another look at it the day after the election when DU is moaning about yet another four years of a repuke administration.

By the way here's a link to Obama's "small" contributors. Goldman Sachs and Lehman Brothers sure seem to like him.

http://opensecrets.org/pres08/contrib.asp?id=N00009638&cycle=2008

[springhill]

449. Billary Clinton?

You show your true colors. She doesn't deserve treatment like that. That should be reserved for the other side.

[sloppyjoe25s]

457. Billary Indeed

Yes "Billary" - Why?

1. They have been planning her run since Bill was in the white house. Egomania! Winning at any cost - and political domination of America with their Machine.

2. She voted at the beginning for the iraq war to "look more hawkish" for her white house bid. She admitted she did not even bother to read the intelligence reports at the time. Nice Billary - $1 trillion gone and 4,000 US boys and girls dead, tens of thousands wounded, tens or hundreds of thousands of Iraqi's dead, we are no safer, but boy does Billary look tough and hawkish!

3. His ego is all wrapped up in her election - he things her being elected means he was god. He things it's all about him.

4. She leverages his political connections ad infinitum. hence they are one.

5. She claims "great experience: from being "first lady" - Huh???!?
-- failed health care reform
-- she dragged educcation from 42nd to 49th in nation in Arkansaas (her only other major initiative outside the senate).
-- she has no major accomplishments as a senator anyway

6. She desperately plays the "I'm-a-girl-i'm-a girl-i'm-a-girl-and-my-hubby-says-i-should-be-prez" card at every chance she gets. She does permanent dammage to future women candidates - and I would LOVE to have a woman president, just not Billary.

7. When he/she/it/them race baits before SC - she says later "Well...hubby's can get a lil out of control ya know - tee hee!!" - c'mon Billary - it's her campaign, no? - the proverbial buck stops with her - so control him.

8. but wait that's the point! - she can't! - and we don't want him back - hence she is Billary. 2 for the price of 2 or 3 or 4.

9. She voted in the Senate for Bush's 'Bankruptcy Reform' law - that did sustained and real damange to poor and middle class (a.k.a. the "No Credit Card Company Left Behind" act. Though she says she now "regrets" it - like the Iraq war vote (if only she had had convictions or judgement!) - and she "hoped it would not pass"

10. They paid $$ old friend black ministers in South Carolina to get their flocks to vote Billary - we know the result. The flocks came out, and whoppped her/him/it (Billary) silly.

11. She has more lobbyist endorsement than any candidate Democrat or Republican.

12. She ardently defends lobbyists as "the voice of real people"

13. She desperately tries to play up Florida as a win - even tho nobody campaigned there. Deception at every turn from Billary.

14. She has taken more $$ from Drug Companies than any candidate in US history. Gee - I wonder if they will influence her Health Care Bill and how?? She holds $1,000 a plate lunches from drug company lobbyists where she "introduces" them to the senators who write the regulations.

http://unitedagainsthillary.wordpress.com/">unitedagainsthillary.wordpress.com

I could go on and on... but in short yes "Billary"

[DWilliamsamh]

383. Weak crap reason to vote fro Hillary. PLEASE.

So you aren't going to Vote for Obama based on his voting to fund the war. And that is different from Hillary How exactly? Are you going to say he doesn't have enough experience? He has more experience than Hillary as an elected official and is only two years short of her very unimpressive Senate Tenure as well.

I am not saying you have to vote for Obama. But don't come with that weak ass crap as your "reason." If you "just don't like him," just say that. He is clearly the more left leaning of the two based on not just his speeches but his life's work as a community organizer legislator etc, when he could have STARTED at 6 figures at any big law firm in the nation. He chose to fight for progressive values his entire adult life, unlike Hillary. Personally I am really disappointed that I won't be able to cast a vote for John Edwards in the PA Primary, but I will vote for the most liberal candidate standing. Clearly that is Barack Obama

AND Obama doesn't inspire the white-hot hatred of the Republican base that Hillary does. That hatred will insure they come out of their crawlspaces in droves to vote against Hillary regardless of the opponent. No, that isn't fair. But it IS reality. The smears of 16 years have unfairly tarnished her in this country, but she IS tarnished. The conservatives and people like El Rushbo and O'Lielly have been touting her as the Dem nominee for eight years for a reason. They can't WAIT to run against her knowing what the reaction from the wing-nuts will be.

Also the recent ugliness and seeking to change the rules midstream have put a bad taste in my progressive mouth lately as well. Not to mention HER support for not only Iraq spending but the Kyle-Lieberman bill as well.

Personally I am really disappointed that I won't be able to cast a vote for John Edwards in the PA Primary, but I will vote for the most liberal candidate standing. Clearly that is Barack Obama.

[LibDemAlways]

386. Where did I say I was voting for Hillary? I'm not supporting

anybody at this point. And Obama's big donations from Goldman Sachs and Lehman Bros. and his votes to fund the war are only part of the equation.

Frankly, I don't like Obama or Hillary. At this point I'm sitting home on Super Tuesday.

[sloppyjoe25s]

392. Edwards a good man, but - Vote your Heart & Head - Obama all the way!!

Edwards is a good man - but Vote your heart my friend!!

Obama = LANDSLIDE - if he gets the nomination....

Edwards can be effective as the "Al Gore of Poverty"

Sure Obama has some support from big investment banks - but also from literally millions of small donors like me pitching in a meager $35.

Also so you know - Goldman Sachs & Lehman Brothers have given heavily to anti-iraq war causes. Billary Clinton has been endorsed by more lobbyists than any candidate Democrat or Republican

Billary Clinton was DISGUSTING in the way he/she (they are one man/woman sandwich) race-baited people before SC - appealing to the lowest form of Bigotry and Fear - trying to "tarnish" Obama as the "black candidate" - then pander and pay old friend black ministers to "get out their flocks" -- well the flocks sure got out - and they put Billary in her/his place!!!

The BILLARY MACHINE - is the past. and represents all the worst of politics.

I'm a white 39 year old and MY 73 YEAR OLD MOTHER AND I - who loved Kucinich and like Edwards - BOTH LOVE OBAMA.

He is not some compromise - he is quite simply the greatest candidate for president in My LIFETIME - and probably 3rd best in my Mom's lifetime.


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com
We should all be incredibly proud of Obama - he makes us proud to be Americans again.

[LibDemAlways]

397. Frankly I think it's unseemly of you to come on this

thread for no purpose other than to try to drag Hillary through the mud and supposedly drum up support for Obama. Go away.

[sloppyjoe25s]

414. Unseemly? You make false charges - at least debate facts

"Drag Billary through the mud??" - are you nuts? I couldn't get more mud on her/him if I owned all the mud in the world. I stand by everything I said about Billary without reserve.

He/She were REVULSIVE before South Carolina.... "well... jesse jackson won it too..." "i think people are voting on race and gender..." I can't drag Billary through the mud because I can't even find them/he/she/it down there in the mud the live in.

You made charges that Obama is a big money sell out. Those are patently false. If you really believe the charge - please back it up with facts. You posted a list of Obamas largest contributors, fine.

All candidates get some support from larger contributors. As did Edwards from many trial lawyers and organizations thereof.

The fact remains that Obama still has more small money support than any candidate ever.

"Unseemly" & "Go Away?" - C'mon friend - don't make charges - and then resort to name calling.

Edwards was a good man - but this is now a VERY REAL and VERY SERIOUS moment.

The choice is Obama vs. Billary - and it's totally fair for people to know the facts.

[DWilliamsamh]

450. Ok so we know what your uber-Tuesday plans are

What about the general? Will you sit it out? Will you make it one lest vote the Republicans need to hold onto the white house and appoint as many as three new Supreme Court Justices?

I hope you aren't even thinking of doing that. We need all hands on deck for the general, so I urge you: even if you choose to have no voice in the choice of the Democratic nominee, please use your voice in the November.

[LibDemAlways]

453. I'll cross the November bridge when I come to it. However, I'll

be voting one-handed, with the other firmly holding my nose, in order to vote for either of what we're left with.

[populistdriven]

I voted for Edwards, No Regrets there, Now I firmly support Obama.

I hope he endorses Obama soon. I never thought Edwards would be the nominee but he had a shot at it. I have no regrets and hope Edwards also has none.

[sloppyjoe25s]

353. Thank You! I respect anyone who supported Edwards - Obama is right choice now

Even though I've been with Obama since long before he even decided to run.

I respect Edwards for keeping focus on Poverty.

Obama is brilliant and true progressive.

Those who think him an empty media creation have not really reviewed the facts. Just because he does well with media, and can reach out - is not a reason to diss him.... it is a tremendous opportunity for all of us.

Billary Clinton would mean the end of life on the planet.... pure, unadulterated politics of fear and division. God help us if Billary is the nominee...

[springhill]

454. Oh please................

You are way over melodramatic. I don't want her or Obama, so I am kind of stuck; I will need to choose, because obviously supporting OUR dem nominee will be vital against John McCain, who I believe will win on the republican side. Now that truly would be horrific. You call her Billary, and I wonder what your agenda really is, because none of our nominees should be treated with such disrespect. Disagree with her, that's one thing, but this name calling is another.

[sloppyjoe25s]

499. Come over to my place for dinner

...and lets discuss.

Honestly - there was a time several months ago - I would have agreed with you totally. I would have simply supported Obama, and not attacked Hillary. But the times have changed...

... after what Bill and Hillary pulled before, during, and after South Carolina - naked race-baiting - playing on white people's bigotry to taint Obama as the "black candidate" -- the lowest form of race politics - relying on Bills "Past love" with the Black community. Then paying - yes paying $$$ to black ministers to support them and "Get their flocks out" to vote.

We know what happened - but what they did was so sickening - they have lost all of my support. I could not even vote for her in the general election if she wins the nomination.

I read both of Barack's book long before he got into this race - and decided along time ago he was someone extraordinary. His books are honest and from the heart - and he speaks to people's hearts.

I also read Hillary's book - and found it to be calculating - and aimed at prepping her for a general election. Much like her Iraq War Vote.

I'm sorry - at one point I could simply say - I will support whoever gets nominated. But she has crossed too many lines. Simply revolting. I would probably quit my day job and work non-stop for McCain if she gets the nomination. She represents the worst we have to offer - pure politics her whole life - and will say or do anything to get elected.


unitedagainsthillary.wordpress.com

Don't wonder what my agenda is - my agenda is to stop Hillary. I'll try not to be so subtle next time ;) I want to fix Washington. I want change. I want to defeat the well organized, well funded, well managed, increasingly sophisticated right-wing that is destroying this country systematically.

Like Caroline Kennedy, Patrick Lehey, dozens of state governors and senators, and millions of Americans who have been apathetic and turned off to politics for years...

I want Obama.

[DWilliamsamh]

480. I think you might be over stating things just a bit.....

End of life on the planet? Oh yeah, I'm sure you are completely correct. :sarcasm:

[sloppyjoe25s]

492. OK - some human life might survive Billary...

But it would not be pretty in any case! :)




Go Obama!

Comments from www.ObamaTags.com

[golddigger]

537. Check out this posters join date. Jan 08

I have notice a lot of new posters starting shit lately and by some funny coincidence they have just joined DU in Jan08. I guess they are getting pretty bored at that other site.:evilgrin:

[cottonseed]

438. Same here. Give Edwards AG, someone's got to clean that stye up. n/t

[eowyn_of_rohan]

379. This is devastating news for those of us who see it as you do

I can hardly believe it's true as I want so much for it NOT to be...

[maddezmom]

6. link here, CNN reporting it as well

Edwards to quit presidential race By NEDRA PICKLER, Associated Press Writer
5 minutes ago



DENVER - Democrat John Edwards is exiting the presidential race Wednesday, ending a scrappy underdog bid in which he steered his rivals toward progressive ideals while grappling with family hardship that roused voter's sympathies but never diverted his campaign, The Associated Press has learned.

The two-time White House candidate notified a close circle of senior advisers that he planned to make the announcement at a 1 p.m. EST event in New Orleans that had been billed as a speech on poverty, according to two of his advisers. The decision came after Edwards lost the four states to hold nominating contests so far to rivals who stole the spotlight from the beginning — Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080130/ap_on_el_pr/edwards_4

:(

[DeepModem Mom]

16. Thank you, maddezmom. I edited the AP story into my post.

I'm so sorry.

[maddezmom]

26. He's a good guy

I'm really shocked at the news, I really thought it's stick it out. Hope it's just politics and nothing else.

[DeepModem Mom]

51. DeepModem Dad just said the same thing. Surely, coming just before Super Tuesday...

it's a political decision.

[INdemo]

468. Since South Carolina Edwards vowed to continue into Super Tuesday

Senior advisor Joe Trippi claimed since So Carolina they had had a very successful fund raising but still asking for more dollars.Now with Edwards dropping out I tend to believe that the last fund raising effort was to pay off campaign debts..Now if this was the case and after promising to continue Edwards then becomes just another politician.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

518. Yes, this is troubling...

He and Kerry (mainly the latter) vowed in 2004 to stay in the race and make sure every vote was counted, should there be problems with election results like there were in 2000. Kerry reneged on that, and Edwards tried in vain to get him to keep his promise. Today I flashed on that, when JE suddenly quit, after promising to stay in the race until the convention. I am disappointed and perplexed in more ways than one over his sudden exit...

[gamblingisforlosers]

115. Wash Post: Edwards to Quit Presidential Race: Report

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/30/AR2008013001069.html?referrer=email

John Edwards will end his presidential campaign today, a source close to the Edwards campaign confirmed today.

The former senator is scheduled to speak in New Orleans this afternoon -- an appearance billed as an anti-poverty speech that is now expected to serve as the platform for ending his White House bid.

Edwards, the party's vice presidential nominee in 2004, has failed to win any of the Democratic primaries so far, narrowly capturing second place in Iowa and finishing a distant third in South Carolina. However he has accumulated dozens of delegates in the process, and a potential endorsement heading into the Super Tuesday round of primaries could be important to top contenders Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-NY) and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.)

[grmamo]

8. Sad sad news if true. I do not like either candidate left. So no Obama is not an automatic for me.

I hope Elizabeth is doing ok and this is not a factor.

updated for add comment about Elizabeth

[Demeter]

9. NO NO NO!

Can't he get through Super Tuesday? Come on! There goes my last illusion.

Time to get the passport and visa and get the hell out.

[Tresalisa]

86. I also wondered why the candidates didn't wait

for Super Tuesday. A newsie explained to me that staying until Super Tuesday is very expensive and so candidates will drop out just before. :shrug:

[sce56]

202. I'm with you there First Kucinich now Edwards campaigns killed by the M$M

How about just sailing away on the wind that is my plan just not quite ready to do yet.

[Phred42]

233. MOre than that - in Kucinich IMPEACHMENT push is muzzeld!

I wish I had time to do a Timeline on all of this.

The Corporations have won. We are screwed.


Democracy lost today.

The primaries are meaningless to me now. A choice between the Corporate twins is no choice at all.

[xiamiam]

243. my thoughts exactly...sad day for america..nt

[sce56]

560. You must choose the lesser of two weasels!

or is it "The lesser of two bowevils" Master and commander Far side of the world !

[pat_k]

251. Hey Edwards!! Wanna Win? Don't Drop Out -- Come Out for Impeachment!!

Demanding impeachment would not only be the greatest gift that John Edwards could give the nation, it is boldest and most effective thing he can do to make victory a real possibility.

By demanding impeachment Edwards would show voters that he truly is a principled outsider willing to take on the Washington establishment. Past opposition to impeachment is not a barrier. Americans embrace the "sinner" who sees the light. (And the "reformed" often garner more attention and respect than those who take the right course from the start.)

A majority of Americans "would love" to see Bush impeached and removed. (Even the impeachophobes in Congress tell us this.) But too many have been silenced by the relentless efforts by the DC establishment to banish impeachment from the realm of possibility. (Why call for something "everybody knows" is impossible?) Too many have become resigned to the mistaken belief that there is no recourse but to tolerate the intolerable, and watch as the DC establishment allows Bush and Cheney the pretense of an honorable exit on January 20th, 2009.

John Edwards has an opportunity to remind the silenced that they DO the power -- and the moral obligation -- to do what they can to make impeachment a reality. He has a big megaphone. Even those who have written him off as a contender view him as a potential "kingmaker." He has earned the respect of Americans across the nation. He has the power and the platform necessary to reach the silenced and put impeachment front and center. And that could potentially transform the public's anger and resignation into a surge of hope and action that could not only make impeachment a reality; it could carry him into the White House.

[Phred42]

279. ...OR....Run independant Edwards/Kucinich '08

[Plucketeer]

486. That would be interesting - no doubt

I plan to write in his name on the GE ballot. I have to live with my conscience.

[pat_k]

502. Posted a new thread on the subject. . .

For what it's worth.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=4296135&mesg_id=4296135">Hey Edwards! Get back in the race as a champion for Impeachment !!

[pat_k]

503. For what it's worth. . .

I posted a new thread on the topic --

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=4296135&mesg_id=4296135">Hey Edwards! Get back in the race as a champion for Impeachment !!

[monarch]

10. Terrible news!

Something definitely has to be done about the stranglehold that the media has over the process.

[Freddie Stubbs]

11. Associated Press: Edwards to quit presidential race

By NEDRA PICKLER Associated Press Writer
© 2008 The Associated Press

DENVER — Democrat John Edwards is exiting the presidential race Wednesday, ending a scrappy underdog bid in which he steered his rivals toward progressive ideals while grappling with family hardship that roused voter's sympathies but never diverted his campaign, The Associated Press has learned.

The two-time White House candidate notified a close circle of senior advisers that he planned to make the announcement at a 1 p.m. EST event in New Orleans that had been billed as a speech on poverty, according to two of his advisers. The decision came after Edwards lost the four states to hold nominating contests so far to rivals who stole the spotlight from the beginning — Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/politics/5498019.html

[deminks]

12. AP link here

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080130/ap_on_el_pr/edwards;_ylt=AvyVJXx67VkmHoM1g9OhRVOs0NUE

[crispini]

13. Damn! I was hoping just last night he'd stay in past Super Tuesday

and at least have a role at the convention.

[mcscajun]

197. You and me both. Super Tuesday just got a lot less Super, and a lot

less valuable for those states that are voting. It still means a lot to the candidates, of course.

I vote on Tuesday. Big Whoop. Once again, almost everything's been decided before NJ gets their voice. I see moving up all those primaries gave exactly all those states exactly...

NOTHING.

[crispini]

301. Try voting in March.

At least you get a vote that counts! :D

[mcscajun]

302. Until this primary, my vote was in June. So believe me, I know how you feel.

Doesn't count for much, though, when most all of the candidates are gone. The Big news is, the remaining candidates actually have To Show Up and Campaign here, which they never had to do (and didn't) when the primary was in June.

[crispini]

343. Yeah, it's annoying when they don't come by.

I mean, I live in Texas. We never get to see the Dem candidates, even in the General, because they're all like, "Oh, Texas is going Red anyway." So they swing by and do $2000 a plate fundraisers and suck out the money that we could use to rebuild the local parties and support local candidates, but we can't get campaign literature, yard signs, or anything at all. I don't expect that to change this year either.

Oh well, at least it makes you pragmatic and independent, LOL!

[Sadie4629]

14. I wonder if there is more to this than we know

Like, is Elizabeth's health getting worse?

Has he made a deal for a VP spot?

[monarch]

40. I'm worried about Elizabeth too! n/t

[Sadie4629]

68. Somewhere upthread

it says there are hints being dropped that it is about her health. So, so sad on many levels. :cry:

[DemReadingDU]

47. same thoughts

[hisownpetard]

250. I tend to agree - it must be one of those two reasons. I'm stunned, esp. since he said

he was going to go right up until the convention, and I believe him.

I guess we'll find out at 1 PM.
I hope the reason is anything other than Elizabeth's health.
Either way, he must be devastated.
What a disappointment.

[swag]

15. CNBC says the same

via Atrios:

http://atrios.blogspot.com/2008_01_27_archive.html#12451930449520115

[mac56]

17. Damn, damn, damn.

:grr:

[OwnedByFerrets]

18. Well, DAMN!!!!!

[workinclasszero]

19. Wow..

Wonder who he will endorse?

[missTheBigDog]

20. What?!?

How come he couldn't wait 6 more days. I can't believe this.

[Birthmark]

21. All hail President McCain, I guess. nt

[deminks]

36. Exactly, all hail no more jobs, but plenty more wars.

[corkhead]

44. Don't worry, there will be jobs in the infantry.

[Nye Bevan]

95. Wow, such optimism.

Both Hillary and Obama are perfectly capable of kicking McCain's ass in November.

[Birthmark]

154. Not a chance.

Between Hillary's baggage and the Bradley Effect, the Democrats have managed to lose the unloseable election...again.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

163. As Gore and Kerry were capable of kicking ass in 2000 and 2004

...and DID.

[JeanGrey]

354. Obama, possibly. Hillary not even close.

Look at that latest polls.

[RoccoR5955]

211. That's President McAncient, not McCain! n/t

[LibDemAlways]

342. Some here would argue that you are being pessimistic.

I think you are a realist.

Half of America hates Hillary. They wouldn't vote for her no matter what. A Presidential election with Hillary heading the ticket could still be close, but you know who ends up "winning" close elections in this country.

Obama is a first term Senator. Against McCain, his relative inexperience will be a huge issue. I would also like to think we're beyond racism in this country, but that would be incredibly naive. I don't think he has a chance in hell of being elected President.

I am so disheartened right now.

[sloppyjoe25s]

377. Obama Highly Electible - appeal to Independents

Obama can bring tons of states into play that Billary Clinton never could.

Support Obama and watch red states turn purple and then vote Democrat.

Billary Clinton would be crushed by McCain on Ethics - she takes more money from Lobbyists and big business than any candidate of either party. Lies, and will say anything to anyone at any time to get a vote.

McCain will likely have a heart attack on the campaign trail anyway - and drools when he speaks.

Billary would not even be able to oppose him credibly on the War - since she loved the idea from the start (too "look more hawkish" for her always planned white house bid). Obama could - with Clarity and Grace.

Obama would beat McCain into a sorry little pulp of a worn out War Monger.

But if we Nominate Billary... I would at a MINIMUM not vote - and be sorely tempted to vote for McCain - because Billary represents the absolute worst of race-baiting, "I'm-entitled-because-I'm-a-girl-and-my-Hubby-sayz-I-should-be-Prez", and Big Money Politics. She would Damage women's causes, and the Democratic Party - for decades to come.

Obama = LANDSLIDE DEMOCRATIC VICTORY.
Billary = ABSOLUTE DEFEAT AND END OF LIFE ON PLANET EARTH.

[Name removed]

393. Deleted message

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

[sloppyjoe25s]

439. Cool it & debate facts

Watch your language.

Yes "Billary" - Why?

1. They have been planning her run since Bill was in the white house. Egomania!

2. She voted for the iraq war to "look more hawkish" for her white house bid. She admitted she did not even bother to read the intelligence reports at the time. Nice Billary - $1 trillion gone and 4,000 boys and girls dead, tens of thousands of Iraqi's dead, we are no safer, but boy do you look tough!

3. His ego is all wrapped up in her election - he things he being elected means he was god.

4. She leverages his political connections ad infinitum. hence they are one.

5. She claims "great experience: from being "first lady" - Huh???!?
-- failed health care reform
-- she dragged educcation from 42nd to 49th in nation in Arkansaas (her only other major initiative outside the senate).
-- she has no major accomplishments as a senator anyway

6. She desperately plays the "I'm-a-girl-i'm-a girl-i'm-a-girl-and-my-hubby-says-i-should-be-prez" card at every chance she gets. She does permanent dammage to future women candidates - and I would LOVE to have a woman president, just not Billary.

7. When he/she race baits before SC - she says "hubby's get out of control ya know - tee hee!!" - c'mon - it's her campaign - the proverbial buck stops with her - so control him.

8. but wait that's the point - she can't - and we don't want him back - hence she is Billary.

9. She voted for Bush's 'Bankruptcy Reform' - that did sustained and real damange to poor and middle class (a.k.a. the "No Credit Card Company Left Behind" act. Tho she says she now "regrets" it - like the Iraq war vote (if only she had had convictions or judgement) - and "hoped it would not pass"

10. They paid $$ old friend black ministers in SC to get their flocks to vote Billary - we know the result. The flocks came out, and whoppped her/him/it (Billary) silly.

11. She has more lobbyist endorsement than any candidate Democrat or Republican.

12. She ardently defends lobbyists as "the voice of real people"

13. She desperately tries to play up Florida as a win - even tho nobody campaigned there.

14. She has taken more $$ from Drug Companies than any candidate in US history.

I could go on and on... but in short yes "Billary" you got it buddy.

[Stuckinthebush]

22. Well which of the lesser two candidates should I vote for now?

Damn.

[BlueEyedSon]

159. My thoughts exactly.

:(

[robcon]

23. Timing is a surprise... and a pleasant one for Obama, IMO.

I think the polls in the Super Tuesday primaries will be very different, since I believe more of Edwards' supporters will drift to Obama than to Clinton.

[robcon]

25. So much for "in it until the convention."

n/t

[Bluenorthwest]

258. No drifting to McClurkin campaign

Sorry. This means I have no reason to even vote as a Democrat. None at all. First time in well, my first vote was for Carter. I will not cast a Primary vote as it now stands. Maybe Obama will sever his ties with the hate preachers clearly and without codespeak but I doubt it.
The McClurkin events were the end of my feelings of connection to the DNC. The outrage that should have been raised- would have been if the Fundies were preaching against abortion instead of gay- was not raised. This Party now welcomes gay baiting and religionism. There is zero reason for me to vote for the bigot's best friend and constant defender.
If I vote I will have to vote Clinton, as Obama clearly stands with those who would do my family harm, and Obama thinks those people speak for God almighty. No way he will get my vote with that crap in place.
As Obama's mentor Ron Reagan said ' I didn't leave the Party, the Party left me.'

[coalition_unwilling]

284. Logic says Edwards voters will go to Obama becuse of the ABH (Anybody but HilBilly) effect

It has certainly clarified my choice in next Tuesday's California Dem primary.

[krabigirl]

332. Well, that logic is faulty. Anyway, I already voted absentee for Edwards.

[coalition_unwilling]

475. Why do think "that logic is faulty". To wit, Edwards ran against

excessive corporate power. HilBilly is the ultimate corporatist Dem.

Obama, on the other hand I see as currently open - while he could become a corporatist, he has the largest amounts of money from small donors and may be amenable to taking an Edwards-leaning tack once nominated, a la FDR moving more progressively in 1932 once elected.

[MadinMo]

24. Well phooey.

I had really hoped Super Tuesday would help him out. This is a sad day.

[denem]

31. Well phony - his passionate promise to stay in all the way to the conventions

He's not out of money, If he believes in the causes he spouts, why isn't he staying in the spread the message?

[Viva_La_Revolution]

66. are you gonna piss on every Edwards thread?

second one I opened, and here you are again. :(

[Heidi]

Excellent question, V_L_R.

It's not enough that some of our hearts are breaking right now, but there are those among us who think it's appropriate to take a squat right in the middle of the mourning.

:hug: :hug:

[denem]

280. Apologies - I said sorry in the other thread as well

It's a dark day, and I have all sorts of dark thoughts running through my head. Sorry again.

[Viva_La_Revolution]

I accept.

It's a dark day for all of us. :(

[frogcycle]

307. some people just can't help themselves

the 'ignore' feature is your friend!

[foxer]

85. Maybe you should wait and find out?

[LanternWaste]

326. Why not ask his campaign/office?

Why not ask his campaign/office? Seems to me they'd be the ones in the know... :shrug:

[Celeborn Skywalker]

27. Damn it!

I don't understand why he couldn't get more traction in this race. It's too bad because he would have made an excellent president. :-(

[missTheBigDog]

28. Great

We are down to 2 unelectable candidates (too many close-minded people in this country) vs. McCain or Romney.

Lovely.

[supernova]

29. Damn!

I had really hoped he would stay. But I do understand.

:-(

[flamingpie2500]

30. There has got to be more to this story--hubby and I are just sick about this

[AngryOldDem]

46. MSNBC is dropping hints that it's Elizabeth's health...

I certainly hope not. Most of what they're saying is just baseless speculation -- you know how the media are.

What I'm most interested to see now is how this realigns things going into Super Tuesday and beyond.

Thinking way, way, way down the road: Is a Obama/Edwards ticket possible/feasible?

[YDogg]

55. I don't see him as a Veep candidate

I wouldn't mind that, but I think the Pres candidate would want someone who hasn't been a running mate previously.

[rucognizant]

122. Yeh sure...........

And Elizabeth Kucinich is in poor health as well......( or will be if Dennis didn't drop out.)
All going acccording to MASTER PLAN!
NOW, Is any one of you going to support the media by watching TV? Time for the country to turn off TV,the radio, and stop buying newspapers & magazines.
THEY are responsible not John & Elizabeth.

[Ghost Dog]

255. Try this radio link (some great music):

http://www.rtve.es/rne/RNE_Envivo/windows_media_rne3.htm

[deminks]

32. Now I have to "settle" for someone else? Who's left? (literally)

No one has my back, that's for damn sure.

[Mad_Dem_X]

216. That's how I feel

None of the others represents me, that's for sure.

[cottonseed]

440. I feel a hell of a lot better about our chances than in 2004.

I don't know about everyone else, but I felt I had to settle in 2004. Not so much this year.

[Apollo11]

34. Link to BBC News website

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7217838.stm

[sinkingfeeling]

35. No, damn it! I just voted for him yesterday in early voting for 2/5!!

[yorkiemommie1]

67. me, too

n/t

[The Stranger]

37. We can't make it without him.

Let's pray he cut a deal with Barack Obama.

[harun]

77. I pray you're right (n/t)

[ursi]

146. me too -- or we will all be bullied into supporting the Clintons

[AngryOldDem]

291. Fuck that.

This is perhaps the most important presidential election in history. Hyperbole? Don't think so. Look at how much is at stake here, and look at how much has been totally fucked up over the past eight-plus years.

And I, right now, have no friggin' idea what I will do. Not a good place to be; not a good feeling.

[Roland99]

38. :-(

[GoddessOfGuinness]

465. My sentiments exactly.

:cry:

[corkhead]

39. no more splitting the ABC vote

[Sydnie]

41. I hope Elizabeth has not had a turn in her condition

but that would be the ONLY reason I can see for him dropping out at this point.

[supernova]

43. I wondered about that

Hope not.

[rucognizant]

126. Please........

Look a little deeper than that!

[Sydnie]

369. Nope .. and your anger can't make me

I can think of many reasons that he might drop out, but the one that concerns me at this moment is Eizabeth's health.

I'll explore other reasons tomorrow, but for today, I will send healing thoughts to Elizabeth all the same. Thanks for your concern about my thought process all the same.


Elizabeth Edwards and her DU Roses!

[grytpype]

42. Oh damn.

Horrible news.

In November the Dems are going to look back and wonder why they took such a big gamble on Obama or Clinton.

Big gambles pay off sometimes. Underline sometimes.

[YDogg]

45. And to think, I voted for him yesterday.

Sorry to see him go.

[Virginia Dare]

48. NO!!! I was hoping he'd stick it out until after my primary...

well, I guess I'll vote for Ron Paul in the repub primary, because Hillary or Obama, it makes no never mind to me...

:cry:

[redstateblues]

119. I'll do the same

[lligrd]

137. Great Choice, Just What Edwards Would Recommend

Vote for the guy who would completely dismantle the Middle Class once and for all. :sarcasm:

[Virginia Dare]

155. Just as a disruption for the 'pubs primary...

not because I want him for prez...:hi:

[underpants]

49. Who's afraid of John Edwards?

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=4285825&mesg_id=4285825

[Coes]

50. that's a disappointment

, and too early especially

[MissDeeds]

52. I'm beyond shocked

He was so adamant about staying in at least through Super Tuesday. I can't help but wonder if Elizabeth's health is an issue. Lord, I hope not.

There is something going on here. Either Elizabeth isn't doing well or a deal of some sort has been struck. This is too much of an about-face, especially with Super Tuesday just a few days away.

[foxer]

94. I agree

[karlrschneider]

169. Exactly 24 hours ago I had a 15-second chat with him over in Tulsa.

He seemed very upbeat. :wtf:

[MissDeeds]

185. There is something going on

I just heard that he had a standing room only crowd at a campaign stop in Missouri yesterday. Wonder what gives? This all doesn't make sense. And I've been getting upbeat emails from his campaign. Hope it's not Elizabeth, but has anyone seen her in public lately?

[karlrschneider]

247. Actually I didn't exactly have a conversation with him...I talked to his pilots

and yelled "hang in there John" as he was getting into the plane to leave. :D

[missTheBigDog]

53. The heat really needs to be turned up on Gore

We really, really, really need him right now. Is the draft Gore campaign still alive and well?

Please Mr. Gore...save this country!!!!!!!!!!!!

[MissDeeds]

63. Bingo

Maybe he can finally be persuaded to jump in. The other two options aren't really options for a lot of us.

[still_one]

65. It won't happen. The only way it could is if it goes to the convention undecided

and he is able to turn it around after the first round

The odds are so much against it

[rucognizant]

131. Oh come on............

NOBODY IS GOING TO SAVE US EXCEPT US!

[disndat]

That is a remote chance.

More likely he will be on the Obama team. Obviously he wouldn't work with HC, unless she wins and Gore has no choice.

[Zenlitened]

54. Hats off to John Edwards. His is an important voice...

... and I hope he remains active in this campaign and in the hard work that lies ahead for all of us in getting our country on the right path again.

:dem:

[harun]

56. Wow, I am stunned

He was in a position to play a key role in deciding who the nominee would be because it is likely neither Hillary or Obama will have the total number of delegates necessary to get the nom.

One would think he must have talked with Obama and Hillary and possibly worked something out.

[jimlup]

57. I'll assume he's backing Obama

I think this is a practical move aimed at backing Obama and helping the Dems win the White House in '08. I'll settle for Obama.

[still_one]

60. I don't think you can assume anything, however I hope he does /nt

[focusfan]

157. who likes Obama he ain't nothing

[still_one]

187. If your candidates wins the nomination, do you want me to vote for your candidate?

because if you do, you sure have a counterproductive way of showing it

Point blank, if Hillary gets the nomination she will need Obama supporters to win in the general election and vice versa

Continue to insult the supporters of your Democratic opponents, and see what happens in the general election

[eowyn_of_rohan]

173. oh brother... I don't see how you can assume this, given Edwards's comments about

both Obama and Hillary throughout his campaign.

[still_one]

198. I agree, but not for the reason you gave

I think he will let Super Tuesday occur without any endorsement to see what comes out, and then pragmatically based on the results endorse who he believes has the best chance

[sloppyjoe25s]

459. Judgement

[golddigger]

478. What right-wing rag did you drag that from?

I don't believe this poster is for Obama or any other democratic candidate. And I'll leave it at that.

[sloppyjoe25s]

505. Baloney

Why not debate the facts - You do know how Hillary voted on the war yes? She did it only to "look hawkish" for the general election.


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com

[sloppyjoe25s]

507. Dude - ANTI -war Cartoon - You think it's Right-Wing?

You are nuts - it is a LEFT-WING anti-war cartoon. What fancy coffee are you drinking mi amigo?

But it shows Billary for what she/he is. Pure Politics and No Conviction or Judgement - all from Day 1!


unitedagainsthillary.wordpress.com

[golddigger]

530. What koolaid are you drinking mi amigo...

Hmmmm...joined Jan 08. Trying to stir up shit so you can go back to some other website and gloat.

Let me give you the cold hard facts, if your are really for Obama it just shows to me that his supporters are just as arrogant as he is. And makes me want to vote for Hillary even more now.

She will win the democratic nomination. Hey hey bye bye!!!

[golddigger]

536. Oh, I forgot one name for you

REZKO!!!:evilgrin:

[Froward69]

58. hey hey

Bye Bye!!!

[IndyOp]

90. Unnecessary. Your post rubs salt into a wound unnecessarily. (n/t)

[Froward69]

116. When Joe Biden was in the race

It was John Edwards supporters who flat out lied about and distorted Bidens record. Then danced when he dropped out and had absolutely no sympathy for those of us Dems backing the MOST qualified person to be prez.

I am glad for Elizabeth... That is, John Edwards Will now have the time to spend with her during her last days. instead of stroking his own ego.

or is this just another ploy to get attention for himself? 1pm eastern... Truly I wont believe it till it actually happens. Never trusted John. and am skeptically watching this one...

[Zodiak]

128. Put this one on ignore.

DU was a far nicer place before some people started filling it with bile and rancor.

[IndyOp]

141. I never, ever treated Biden (or his supporters) the way you are now treating Edwards.

(and his supporters).

When you throw a grenade, it doesn't just hurt the people who you want it to hurt - it hurts the innocent, too.

Peace.

[Kajsa]

170. Neither did I, Indy.

I don't believe one word of this vitriol.

[LanternWaste]

331. Or, as my five year old nephew says, "they did it too...!"

"It was John Edwards supporters who flat out lied about and distorted Bidens record. Then danced when he dropped out and had absolutely no sympathy for those of us Dems backing the MOST qualified person to be prez."




So it would appear that you are predicating your own actions/incivility on those of other people.

Or, as my five year old nephew says, "they did it too...!"


It says much of a person's class, dignity, and honor when he is seen pissing on a grave. It says even more when that person attempts to justify it...

[golddigger]

461. Stroking his own ego? Maybe it was Elizabeth dream

to have John become President before she dies. Which as a matter of fact she did mention that in interview. Pathetic...

[Kajsa]

107. Very tacky,

and revealing of your character.

[lonestarnot]

59. To John, Cate, Emma Claire, Jack, and our good friend Elizabeth

Our very best wishes. :cry:

[momlyd]

61. NNNOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!

No, no, no, no, no!!!!

Ah, hell! Look what we are left with!!!

SHIT!

[thetaoofterri]

221. Double Shit!

This is awful! I feel sick.

[Delphinus]

278. This is what I just screamed:

(and it was a good thing no one was around)

SHIT!

[CaptJasHook]

62. Piss.

This is going to be a hard day.

[brentspeak]

64. It's understandable.

The media has ignored him; he's running of money; and Obama has stolen his "change" platform (one reason the Repubs like Obama is that he undercut Edwards).

Edwards was by far the best Democratic candidate out there.

[Phred42]

69. Edwards Quits - The Corporations have WON

The rest of the Primary process is meaningless to me. And NOW, the Republicans have a chance at the goddamn White House.

Yes, I'll vote for who ever the Dumbacrat is in the General election but I'm not kidding myself.

FOLLOW THE MONEY

There is no real choice between HC & BO. They are the same until you get down to the political molecular level where it just doesn't matter. The choice now for most people will be based on how much they hate Hillary.

This is a bad day for Democracy and the future of this country.

PS: Edwards promised to stay in it. I don't give a shit who he endorses now.

[pjt7]

76. If you really beleive in John Edwards you would want him

to take a real job as the AG.

People get too carried away with campaigns & speeched, don't you think John could do the most help w/ the poor & unvoiced as the top lawyer for the entire United States?

[harun]

87. I said the same thing to my wife as she was leaving this morning

and we were talking about Edwards. I told her he would make a kick ass AG.

[Phred42]

96. "Beleive"? Edwards Ain't the Baby Jesus

FOLLOW THE MONEY -

The Reich-wing, with the help of their silent partners the Dumbacrats, have utterly screwed up Government

NEITHER HC or BO will allow their AG to go after their major donors any more than Bush did. Any AG going forward now will be impotent window dressing - including Edwards.

Don't kid yourself

[texastoast]

264. Point.

Depends on how much the new administration would want him to bear down on corporations, though, doesn't it? It could be that they would want someone a lot more friendly, and apparently, the corporations are running this presidential show.

[fiamma mama]

458. I've been thinking that he would be a wonderful AG

...so much of our troubles have been caused by corporations bending or ignoring the law.

[coalition_unwilling]

329. Oh, for God's sake: Obama was against the war publicly when

Hilbily was for the war publicly. She still refuses to apologize for her vote and claims pathetically that she was "misled" about intelligence about Iraqi WMD. Were you mis-led????

[orleans]

340. i remember he did say he would stay in the race. (don't remember

if he said "i promise")

so -- this is a bit of a surprise to me too.

especially before super tuesday

makes me think: politicians! you can't believe a word they say. no matter who it is.

very disappointing

[cottonseed]

444. Corporations have won the last 3 DECADES.

I don't think Edwards dropping out now is some watershed moment. I was supporting Edwards, but I'm now going Obama. A Hillary/McCain, all war all the time general election is something I'm not looking forward to.

[alarimer]

70. No reason for me to vote then

I sure as hell am not voting for those corporate pieces of shit, Hillary or Obama. Fuck them and their corporate money. Fuck the MSM for not allowing Edwards' message to get out. Fuck the stupid people for falling for whatever the media tells them.

Time for me to move.. someplace else.

[missTheBigDog]

75. I am so pissed at the MSM too

They made this thing into a 2 horse race from the beginning and didn't give John
a chance to get his message out. Even the debates were limited to Obama and Hillary
getting all the damn air time.

This is a sad day. John would've been good for this country.

[cali]

82. go then.

and your little tantrum is not impressive. so much for the bullshit about Edwards supporters being grownups. I'm sorry your candidate dropped out, but grow up and buck up. There's something to be said for having some dignity. Oh, and I don't have TV or tune in the MSM at all. I have two MA's in history. It's puerile bullshit to say that supporters of other candidates are "stupid".

[bpeale]

105. now i remember why i blocked your ass cali. here you go again

[Divine Discontent]

144. I cannot wait for O to drop out

you heartless, instigating, loud mouthed, net bully. Go find an O-thread to spin your shit in.

[LibDemAlways]

205. You do your candidate no favors with your attitude. I'm sure

there are plenty of pro-Obama threads you can go crow on. When he drops out, we'll all be looking for your calm, rational, dignified post.

[krabigirl]

336. Remember, Obama is the "unity" and "hope" candidate. LMAO.

[RaleighNCDUer]

226. True. There's a difference between stupid and gullible.

Las Vegas is built on the backs of people who are smart enough to make a lot of money, and gullible enough to throw it away on glitz and empty promises.

[golddigger]

268. Now I know why if Edwards does drop out...

I will be voting for Clinton.

[susanr516]

339. Second that. nt.

[JMDEM]

321. The spitting cobra strikes again. NT.

[Heywood J]

390. "I have two MA's!"

"Therefore I am above you - listen to what I say!"

Dignity - I'm amazed you still remember what that looks like.

[leftynyc]

124. See ya n/t

[rucognizant]

149. Short sighted deserter..............

What make you think someplace else wants you?
The world has been watching our somnambulatic, dysfunctional folly.............
Yah. Go ahead & leave, leaving is a vote for ole 100 year war, bomb bomb Iran, McCain!
All my candidates are gone now......but I will work to figure out what course of action is the smartest! At the SOTUS Hillary stood up & applauded the warmongering parts of the speech; Obama DID NOT. There's a little fact to work with!

[Codeine]

428. "Stupid people?"

So everybody who made a different choice than you was less thoughtful, less educated, and less intelligent? That's a lovely attitude.

[cottonseed]

446. Vote Nader.

I mean, it is an option. Probably more inline with you, if you were supporting Edwards campaiging.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

71. Both my first choice and my second choice gone, and

I don't like either of the two remaining candidates, with the way they've been carrying on like high school rivals instead of seriuosly discussing the issues that face this country.

I'm disgusted with the news media for picking our candidates for us, disgusted with the American people for falling for it, disgusted with the Democratic party for playing favorites among the candidates, and disgusting with a primary system that lets a few small states weed candidates out.

:grr:

[no name no slogan]

160. I agree entirely

Edwards just made an appearance here in St. Paul yesterday, too.

I'm just glad that Lee L. Mercer Jr. is still in the race (all three)

[Zorra]

182. That's exactly what I'm thinking also.

Feeling pretty sad, frustrated, and defeated, too.

[LibDemAlways]

219. I'm with you. I feel like I'm standing in front of an

apple tree, hungry and with an invitation to pick, but all the fruit is wormy. This is so goddamn depressing.

[texastoast]

259. Yep, the best are gone now

Sigh of disappointment. The only real Dem left and now he's gone.

[Kajsa]

72. NO-NO-NO!

I just got this news alert from WaPo.

Can't link the e-mail ( shows my email address)
which was released 9:07 EST.

Please John, say it ain't so!

You were the only one who spoke for
millions like me.


;( :cry:

[The Wizard]

73. This doesn't mean

we can't vote for him in the primary.
A vote for John Edwards sends a message to the eventual candidate that John Edwards still has a voice in determining policies that work for all the people. They can only ignore the message if we let them.

[cascadiance]

83. I think that's what Ill do. The biggest difference is that there won't be as much GOTV activity!

A lot of us who would be active trying to help Edwards with GOTV activity, or even the party nominee, if that nominee were persuaded to adopt Edwards' stances now have NO motivation to give our sweat and tears to a party that ignores us any more! I might be thinking about moving to Canada too.

Folks, the fix is in! The *Corporatist* Depression IS coming soon!

[watrwefitinfor]

237. You said a mouthful.

The only campaign that called me during the SC primary was Edwards. And I was called three different times by three different GOTV people.

Wat

[Duppers]

147. I'm in! A vote for John will send a message to the other 2 candidates!

Let's do it, folks.

Thanks, Wizard.

[beltanefauve]

447. True

Howard Dean was already out of it last time around, yet still came in third in California. I believe it did send a message.

[MikeNearMcChord]

74. Thank you John and Elizabeth Edwards!

You were the voice, for the forgotten majority, and I hope the other two got the message, if not you will be back Senator and you be millions! Mrs Edward, my positives thoughts to you!
:patriot: :patriot: :patriot: :patriot:

[Irishonly]

78. I Hope Elizabeth Is Ok

and her health wasn't a factor in his decision. I will not support either Clinton or Obama right now. I will vote for the nominee in November.

[4dsc]

79. I'm a delegate for Edwards in Iowa

now who should I support??

[davidwparker]

195. the one Edwards endorses. Let's wait until 1 pm to make sure Elizabeth is ok.

[emmadoggy]

309. Me too.

I don't want to support either of the other two. Yuck.

[beezlebum]

80. not that i was ever terribly excited,

but i'm getting less and less enthusiastic. here i was, getting psyched, thinking we still have more than half the country left, he's got a chance...

well, now people can stop saying he's taking away from "the udder two."

crap...guess it's time to change my sig line.

obama...2008. yay. (i do admit, a piece of news regarding obama did psyche me up a tad yesterda- he's for net neutrality, supposedly, and he's got endorsement from NARAL).

[endarkenment]

81. America Inc. wins again.

Which centrist corporate creep should I vote for?

[underpants]

125. DID YOU GET THE MESSAGE?

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=4286520&mesg_id=4286520

[mistertrickster]

84. Obviously, this benefits Obama. Maybe he'll be chosen as VP. nt

[mrmx9]

92. Not obvious - will Edwards mainly white male supporters go for Hillary or Obama

I'm just not sure - maybe their white wives will suggest they vote with them for Clinton?

[RaleighNCDUer]

327. My office was all abuzz about this - seems that everyone but one

supported Edwards. That one supports Obama. Now, the consensus is Obama. 4 men, 3 women, six of whom are moving toward Obama, with varying degrees of enthusiasm.

Just my anecdotal input (which is in line with my "I only know 1 person who supports Hillary - an ex-Republican theology student) for what it's worth.

[leftynyc]

127. Not sure why you think that

I just told a fanatic Edwards supporter in my office the news and she is going with Clinton.

[mistertrickster]

365. Edwards was for real change and so's Obama. Clinton . . . eh . . . not so much. nt

[mnhtnbb]

88. Well,shit. I just gave $100. to an e-mail request. If this is rumor to destroy his fund raising

I hope Edwards camp puts out denial really fast. No doubt the media would love to pull something like this.
And if it's true, I'm really pissed about them making an appeal for funds when they knew he was going to quit.

[beezlebum]

93. yeah, does seem a lil odd...

i'm concerned about elizabeth.

[robcon]

114. The campaign is unlikely to have know he was going to quit.

The campaign was shocked that he canceled appearances today, so I think only senior people, if any, knew that he was going to pull out.

I think it is highly unlikely that any fraud or misrepresentation could be blamed on Edwards' campaign.

[orleans]

351. that's horrible--if they sent out requests for money knowing he was

going to drop. when did you get the email?

[karlrschneider]

89. We all might as well practice saying "President McCain".

'cause we have nobody viable now.
:grr:

[AngryOldDem]

111. Sadly, you're right.

Not gonna say any more because my asbestos suit is at the cleaners.

The lesson here: Don't run an issues-based campaign. And we wonder why we are left with the "choices" that we have.

[Jacobin]

142. We must also practice singing "Bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran

:nuke:

[DirtyDawg]

91. It it's so...

...that cinches it for the Repugs. Not that John was going to pull off a hail-Mary and win the Demo nomination, but at least there remained - at least in my heart - a chance that he might make it. Not only do I think neither of the 'Obamaries' will win the general election - I'm not sure I want either of them as President. Of course I don't want a Repug either, so what's left? Make a run for it? Become a recluse? Give up politics altogether? Off myself? Decisions, decisions, decisions.

[karlrschneider]

99. That's the dilemma, isn't it? We're just like ... fucked.

:mad:

[beezlebum]

106. yep...

:mad: :puke: :hangover:

[Debbi801]

117. My thoughts exactly. (nt)

[emmadoggy]

317. Ditto.

:banghead: :banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

[LibDemAlways]

328. Yep, the Dems have done the impossible in a

year in which the country is totally fucked up thanks to a vile, filthy repuke administration shitting all over it for 8 years. They've got two potential nominees who won't be able to beat McCain in November, and we'll be headed further down the toilet.

[mnhtnbb]

103. If it's so, I think we're full speed ahead on retiring to Panama.

[foxer]

316. New Zealands nice, so is Iceland

[mnhtnbb]

559. New Zealand doesn't take retirees; Iceland? We've been planning Panama

since mid-2005 as an escape hatch from Bushco. We already have our permanent resident visas and bank accounts. Panama has a great benefits program for retirees.

[bpeale]

97. i will believe this when the Edwards campaign says its so

not when any so-called news organization says it since i don't believe ANYTHING the news reports anymore. you all are free to believe it if you want to.

[karlrschneider]

104. I don't blame you but it's all over the news.

:cry:

[bpeale]

110. oh and the news organizations are NOW just so trustworthy, huh?

[karlrschneider]

176. No but this is too big and checkable story for them to fuck up.

...

[bpeale]

177. all they did was check with the AP not with the Edwards campaign

[karlrschneider]

235. whatever...

:shrug:

[Ghost Dog]

281. Reuters (Reuters does check primary sources):

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards, who focused his bid for the Democratic nomination on helping the middle class, will announce his withdrawal from the presidential race in a speech later on Wednesday.

A campaign official said Edwards, the 2004 vice presidential nominee, would announce his decision during a speech in New Orleans at 1 p.m. EST.

Edwards, 54, has not won a single contest in the race for the Democratic nomination for the November election, and lags behind front-runners Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in public opinion polls.

...

One source close to Edwards said he was not dropping out because of his wife's health. Elizabeth Edwards, who was diagnosed with breast cancer just after the 2004 election, announced last year her cancer had returned and was incurable.

The son of a millworker, Edwards tried to appeal to voters by focusing on his humble roots.

His populist message focused on fighting poverty, giving health-care coverage to all Americans and reducing corporate influence in Washington.

/... http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN3018636220080130

[focusfan]

100. we are fucked if he ends his race for the white house

we only have barack and hillary and those 2 choses are bad.

[toadzilla]

101. noooooo!

i thought he was in it till the convention!

i knew he wasn't going to win at this point. but i thought his voice in the debates was valuable. now i feel like the media really has chosen our candidate for us, no more doubt about that.

[CaptJasHook]

102. I was looking forward to a Brokered Convention

It would have been great to have some serious debate at the convention. Having a vocal progressive voice fighting for the poor and disenfranchised would have been nothing but beneficial.

I am also saddened that so many DUers will choose not to vore in the general.

Please, Please at least show up to vote for your local and State candidates. In the long run, that is what is going to make the difference.

[mcscajun]

224. I also was looking for a real convention, not an anointing. A real vote

in the primary might have been nice, too.

Moving up all those primaries to Feb. 5th really got all those states...

NOTHING. Near to no voice, little choice, once again. :grr:

[bluestateguy]

108. I'm going to make a decision soon about who to support

HIllary and Obama both have electability issues, but they both have attributes too. I have said all along that I will support the nominee, and that's what I will do.

[Papagoose]

109. I am crushed.

Obviously this was a long-shot, but the first time that I was really, truly excited about a candidate. I have never had the opportunity to vote for a candidate that I liked - always the lesser of evils. Guess 2008 will be the same.

[tinrobot]

112. I'm incredibly saddened.

The country needed someone like him.

[DS1]

113. DAMMIT

[NoFederales]

118. Worst.Possible.Grief.

NoFederales

[ozone_man]

121. That's upsetting.

I understand if he doesn't want to appear to be a spoiler though. He did his part and might play a part later on at the convention, or in a Democratic cabinet.

It was a good campaign and he had a wonderful voice for the common man. I just wish he would have taken it all the way to the convention.

The upside is that we won't have to listen to any more spoiler complaints. :)

[Rambis]

123. John McCain just won

neither Hillary or Obama can win the general against him. My worst nightmare has come true.
thanks for trying John!

[missTheBigDog]

129. You hit the nail on the head

McCain will easily beat Obama or Hillary (especially with the perception that he is a moderate, which is far
from the truth).

[Rambis]

305. McCain looks moderate

you are 100 % correct on that- just look at the nutters on any side of him makes him appealing by default.

[TNOE]

NO!!!!

God - after Kucinich - I was going with John!

Dammit!!!

BUT - I do think Obama can win the General Election.

70% of the country is AGAINST this war!

SO NOW - GO OBAMA!!!

[missTheBigDog]

139. That's true

McCain is a huge warmonger. Maybe that will help us?

[rpannier]

528. My only problem with the "McCain as warmonger" mantra is he can insulate himself

because he was a prisoner of war in Vietnam.

He at least can claim he understands the burdens and sacrafices of war and make it sound plausible.

It's why I've been hoping the republikkans go with Romney.

Romney has even less military experience than DUH-bya

[karlrschneider]

180. Sorry but if you think Obama can win a national election, you really need to find

a new dealer.

[Ghost Dog]

295. It's best to grow your own. n/t

[karlrschneider]

314. Yes. It is.

:D

[golddigger]

535. hehe...n/t

:evilgrin:

[AndyTiedye]

424. 70% Opposed Vietnam in 1972. Much Good That Did Us

Opposition to the Vietnam war was around 70% in 1972 and we were running an unambiguously anti-war candidate.

We lost every state except Massachusetts.

[sandyj999]

133. And In the famous words of John McCain................

"Friends there will be more wars". Just gives you something to live for doesn't it? I always wanted another Bush clone.

[beezlebum]

194. oh yay

just what ai wanted :beer: here's to another decade of prominently sporting my tinfoil hat.

[bluestateguy]

158. Only if people have that kind of DUfeatist attitude

And if you are going to be defeatist about the fall election, why are you here, anyway?

[eowyn_of_rohan]

181. What has been done to assure our votes will be counted accurately this time?

and which Sec's of State can we trust in the upcoming election?

[sandyj999]

190. I'm Here Because I have a right to be here.

I was only repeating what he said with a little add on by me which was meant sarcastically. Excuse me for not using the little symbol. I do not have a defeatist attitude but a very cynical one. And I am not the only one that is disgusted.

[Rambis]

300. don't get me wrong

I will work hard for whomever it is but this is the worst case scenario for the democrats.

[Lorien]

191. or Mitt Romney

I have a journalist friend who is covering the GOP primaries for a major news service. He thinks it'll be Mitt-though he's not ruled out McCain by any means.

[MrsBrady]

130. tooo bad....I like John Edwards!!! Darn! n/t

[Old Smokey]

132. damn

He was my favorite. He would have made an excellent president.

[Peggy Day]

134. I guess the media got their wish. nt

[Magleetis]

135. There goes

my first choice. Obama is my man now.

[Blue Belle]

136. Dammit!!

Corporate America wins another one.

[Blue State Blues]

138. Figures. I donated to him yesterday.

I must be the kiss of death. My candidate never wins. Waaaah!

[Qanisqineq]

151. you and me both

I never pick the winning candidate. Gets very depressing. I tried not to pick anyone this year but ended up liking Biden, then he was gone. Then I really liked and donated to Edwards. Now he's gone.

Too depressing.

[PFunk]

143. This sucks

Still I wish him well-though this does not mean I'll automaticly go for the two front runners though as both are kinda lacking to me.

[TomClash]

148. Thank you John for recognizing class matters in American politics

. . . and having the courage to speak openly and honestly about it.

[devilgrrl]

150. The last progressive gone - bring on the Centrists!!!!!

Yeah, they'll fight against corporations (with more tax breaks) - they'll help the (upper) Middle Class - they'll stop (escalate) the war, they'll make things right (wing)

I can barely wait.

:sarcasm:

[focusfan]

153. maybe everyone should write to John Edwards on myspace

and try to convince him to stay in the race.

[mrJJ]

156. Who does Mr Edwards choose to fight the good fight?

Who will Mr Edwards choose to be the voice of his supporters? I have seen him tirelessly fight the good fight to give the people a voice in our government. If he can't be President; he must be considered for a short list as our next VP. The next question becomes; will Mr Edwards actively campaign for his choice? I hope he answers those questions before the next Primary.

[iris5426]

161. It's a sad, sad day.

I just hope Elizabeth is ok, I really feel like that's one of the only things that would have made him drop out...

:cry:

[Ian David]

162. Oh, fine. I'll change my avatar to Obama, then. Geesh. n/t

[kirby]

164. Why do candidates lie?

Edwards, whom I was concerned about, but perhaps going to vote for, kept saying I'm passionate, this is personal, I'm there all the way to the convention. I can understand that his poor showing in the primaries so far makes his prospects unlikely. However, why didn't he say that? Why the snow job? Are they worried that if they say something 'realistic' that no one will contribute or vote for them?

Not just Edwards either:
Guliani swore up and down that he was going to win Florida. He'd be #1. Pffft.
Kucinich was going all the way!

[Gloria]

277. You don't know if he "lied"... he may have gotten confirmation of

bad news after his last appearance...Elizabeth may have gone for testing....a few days ago, he looked very beat...maybe they had some inkling but were waiting for re-tests or confirmation. One phone call last night could have been it...

She was noticeably absent in SC for the most part, wasn't she??? I had noticed her absence even before that....

Don't assume he lied......there are other things perhaps going on....

[kirby]

294. Yes, but...

Your point is very valid about not knowing the situation until he speaks personally. But her condition, whatever it is (fingers crossed she is okay), was something that they put up front and would have been something to work around all through the campaing and even when they are in the White House. CNN is reporting though that 'one aide' says his dropping out is not related to Elizabeth's health.

And in the past week they asked to raise money to compete during Super Tuesday. Many DU'ers gave money, and for what?

[Gloria]

496. Post-speech...says he almost changed his mind during the last couple of stops....

MSNBC pundits also said that Elizabeth had played a big part in the decision...perhaps, seeing the terrain, she asked him to just come HOME, so they could enjoy whatever time they have left as a family. I can respect that.

Another comment was that it was clear that he still thought he was the best candidate...which is true!! But it was obvious he was getting screwed by the media and his message was being stolen...Mitchell said Elizabeth was always more politically-oriented than he was...she may have convinced him to quite and come HOME, and he did, because she wanted him, too. Perhaps if she had kept pushing, he would have stayed in. But the family together in today's event was telling...sad, but they seem to really need to be together at this point. She may be very relieved.

[AndyTiedye]

165. I'll Vote for the Democrats in November, but I Don't See Much Hope of Winning

McCain is now all but unbeatable. I hope we can hold onto at least one house of Congress.

[karlrschneider]

174. Hillary might beat him with a huge tub of luck. Obama has no chance.

shit.

[ramapo]

188. Obama might beat him with a huge tub of luck. Hillary has no chance

shit is right. The Democrats sure do have an amazing ability to snatch defeat from what should've been certain victory. Well it is early... Who knows what might happen?

[norwespatriot]

297. Not necessarily...

You might be surprised at the number of Repubs who say CAN'T STAND McCain. Many of them are unsure the he could beat Hillary OR Obama.

Just keep a stiff upper lip and think PSITIVE. All hope is NOT lost!

[helderheid]

166. :(

I already voted for him via absentee ballot. :(

Thanks for trying, John. I'll be rooting for Obama now.

:patriot:
:loveya:
:cry:

[JohnstownDEM]

167. Edwards supporters:

Come to Obama...it IS your destiny.

[karlrschneider]

172. No, thanks.

...

[eowyn_of_rohan]

189. your command makes me all the more resistant.

[MissDeeds]

227. I agree

Supporters would do well to realize they can sink their candidate with
stupid remarks like the one above.

[ieoeja]

272. Is the poster an Obama supporter? Or just f'ing with you?

Personally, I consider Edwards dropping out bad for Obama. I suspect Edwards would have thrown his support behind Obama at the convention with nearly all his delegates following suit. However, the people who would have voted for Edwards in the remaining primaries are likely to be less monolithic in their voting change even if (and that is a big if) Edwards endorses Obama.

I would say that as the default candidate, Clinton has a decent chance now of topping 50% in most of the Super Tuesday primaries which could spell the end of Obama's chances. This in turn will damage the 50-State Strategy and all the down ticket candidates in those states where Clinton will not campaign as they believe in more targetted campaigning versus Obama who planned to campaign everywhere.

[sloppyjoe25s]

500. Bingo

stated perfectly.. thank you!!


Comments from www.ObamaTags.com

[George II]

399. Resistent to what? If Obama is the candidate, will you vote for McCain or Romney?

[Roland99]

192. How about Obama drops AIPAC and corporate support and comes to us instead?

[Lorien]

203. Forget it

this kind of smug crap will drive me away from your candidate.

[Name removed]

208. Deleted message

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

[LibDemAlways]

223. Not a chance in hell, but thanks for the offer.

[Irishonly]

241. No thanks

If Obama wins the nomination I will vote for him. If Hillary wins the nomination I will vote for her. Right now my focus will move to other political issues. Obama is not my destiny nor is Hillary. One of them is inevitable unless Gore returns, which I doubt he will.

[golddigger]

286. No thanks...

His arrogance is matched by his supporters.

[krabigirl]

338. LOL never! sorry, already voted for Edwards.

[Radical Activist]

467. ugh

Are you a Clinton supporter, a Republican, or just completely tactless?

[knight_of_the_star]

479. ROT IN JOTUNHEIM!!!

You have no shame whatsoever you honourless piece of trash! You aren't good enough to lick the shit off of John Edwards' shoes you scum!

[martymar64]

511. No

No to Hillbama.

[surfermaw]

522. No thank You, after the hell Obama supporters gave Edwards NO NO NO

[earth mom]

551. ROFL! You gotta be kidding or high!

:rofl:

[Turner Ashby]

168. This is really, really sad.

I was hoping he would stay in to force an Attorney General position.

[annabanana]

171. damn.. . . . n/t

[PerpetuallyDazed]

175. Is there any chance this could be a PLOY from Edwards for media attention??

I really don't understand how exiting a primary race works...

[TexasBushwhacker]

213. Considering that the MSM has been ignoring him

I hope it IS a ploy. If that's the only thing that gets his campaign the notice it deserves, then fine! It is inexcuseable that he has been ignored, while they continue to cover Giuliani and Huckabee, even though they have the same kind of numbers OR LESS.

Nevertheless, I fear that this is because of Elizabeth's health. I don't think anything else would make him drop out of the race 6 days before Super Tuesday. SIX DAYS! It just doesn't make sense.

[redwitch]

178. I am so sad.

I hope Elizabeth is going to be OK. I wish John and his family all good things.

[Abacus]

183. Condolences, Edwards supporters.

Edwards was my second choice and I'd really like to see him as VP. IMO, there is only one reason for him to quit now ahead of Feb 5; it'll be interesting to see how this plays out.

[Phillycat]

217. Agree - I think a deal has been struck.

[debbierlus]

186. I am so sad. I am out. Let the masses eat cake.

I am refocusing on helping people in my immediate circle. And, preparing for the great depression.

[Lorien]

199. You and me both

my volunteer work this year will be restricted to picking up absentee ballots and distributing voter info at the polls. I can't canvas for someone I don't believe in (plus, I don't think that canvassing helps a hell of a lot anyway).

[acmavm]

I know EXACTLY how you feel. I could control my gag reflex and

cast a vote for Hillary (even though I don't want to) but Obama? Nope. I don't think so.

[LibDemAlways]

248. For the first time since I turned 18, I will not be

voting in the CA primary. What's the point? Being forced to choose between corporate-owned childish brat A or B? No thanks.

[rpannier]

531. Vote for Edwards anyway

Might as well make sure the other two know where people stand.
And if they truly piss us off, they could just piss away their chances at the White House

[Tatiana]

193. I am so f*ing upset.

I can't cry because I'm at work, but this is devastating news.

[acmavm]

200. DAMMIT!

[disndat]

201. I hope it is not because of Elizabeth

and for something more positive. The Ted Kennedy's endorsement changed the dynamics of the whole Democratic race. Maybe Edwards will have an important place if Obama presidency, or at least with the Obama team, if that is the deal. I doubt if he would go with HC given her close ties to corporate America and pro-Iraq occupation. I will still vote for Edwards on 2/5, unless told to do otherwise by Edwards. Will his delegates still count in the Democratic convention?

[redqueen]

204. Who's afraid of John Edwards?

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x4285825

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x4286520


:banghead:

[RoccoR5955]

207. Nobody left to vote for :-(

I am totally bummed out now. There is not a single Democratic candidate that I can, in my heart, support in the primary. I cannot stay home, I am an election custodian.

Obama and Clinton are far to right-wing for my taste. I guess my hopes and dreams that we could have a REAL candidate in November have, once again, gone down the tubes.

Come November, it looks like, once again, I will pull the lever for the Democratic candidate, and hold my nose, because I will be voting for the lesser of two evils.


Thanks John, you were our last best hope for America. The corporations have won, once again. We are no further along in our democracy than we were in the past.

:-(

[Mad_Dem_X]

209. Son of a---!

John was the only candidate (other than Kucinich) I gave a damn about. I don't like Hilary or Obama, for various reasons. This is very, very disappointing.

[Norwood]

210. Great now its officially the same old shit

Choosing the lesser of two evils once again. No I'm not automatically going to Obama, I may not even go to the caucus at all. I dunno what to do.

[Politicub]

212. :sigh: A good man and a great candidate

I will miss Edwards' presence in the primary race. He raised both Obama and Hillary's game.

He's one of the most admirable dems out there, and I predict he will join the league of Statesmen Dems like Al Gore. The fight for bridging two Americas doesn't end here. It's just a blip in a much longer fight.

We have screens that display news headlines in the elevator where I work, and I almost yelled out, Noooo!" when I saw the news. Just damn.

:patriot:

[Gloria]

214. This looks like a very sudden decision...his website has no mention at all

is still very much like an active candidate's site.....God, I hope it isn't bad news.....
I was all set to donate...today (Wed.) was donation day.....

[newburgh]

215. So much for the Democratic Party and progressive values.

Might as well rename it the Corporatist Party. Nader was right- this is a duopoly we live in, not a democracy and it's driven purely by the media. Of course it doesn't hurt that we have a bunch of sheeple voters(and a system that cares nothing about counting those votes accurately) who let the corporations tell them what to do.

[Justitia]

218. To Edwards supporters, I'm very, very sorry - I've been where you are....

and it's the reason I specifically didn't pick a horse this time around.
When your candidate drops out, it's like a stake through the heart, I know.

Take some time off (especially from this board, probably) and hang back a bit, that's my only advice.

There will be lots of talk about switching to another candidate or not voting at all, and none of that is good for you today, so try taking a breather. The other campaigns should be respectful of your feelings right now.

I know that all of you are very passionate about your politics, it's very important to all of us, so I know we can count on you when the chips are down, later.

Once again, I'm very sorry for your disappointment, I know today is not a good day.

Take a break and we'll see you later.

[stevietheman]

220. No time to cry; this Edwards supporter is switching to Obama immediately.

Heck, we already know that John Edwards feels he is more aligned with Obama, so he must see something very good in him.

So, it's GObama!

[madrchsod]

222. the last progressive is gone

i thought he`d stay but he saw the hand writing on the wall...america is still not comfortable with a progressive. first dennis and now john. it`s a sad day for america progressives.

please write-in or vote for john in your primary. i`m writing in dennis if i have to tuesday

[SoFlaJet]

225. So now I know...

we made the right decision to back Obama instead of JE yesterday...

[Cabcere]

228. Awww John

:cry: I still love ya, man. :hug: Hope everything is OK.

[sonias]

230. I'm proud of the race he ran

I hope he still stays in public service. We still need him.

And damn the media for marginalizing him.

:cry:


Sonia

[Gloria]

231. McCain to be endorsed by Guiliani today...It's now 11:00 ET about a half

2 hours from John's 1 pm NO speech....

This might take the thunder out of the McCain thing, but I don't think he's doing it because of that. There has got to be something going on....it's just too sudden, don't you think????

On the other hand...he started his bid in NO....so ends it here....but why NOW???? He could have ended it here later on, too....

Boy, I'm just knocked for a loop....

[WolverineDG]

232. I'm saddened!

I voted for him in 2004 & was planning to again this year. I hope he's not withdrawing because of Elizabeth's health, but in the few pictures I've seen of her lately, she wasn't looking too well. :cry:

dg

[Loge23]

234. Awful news

Is there a deal with Obama for VEEP or AG?
We're giving this election away.
I really believed that Edards would have prevailed in the long run.
The primary system and media coverage both suck. The media appears to be out in front of fixing this election.

[colorado_ufo]

236. A good man; very sorry to have him leave.

He was the bright light in this campaign, along with Kucininch. However, if this decision, which I am sure was painfully difficult, is to spend more time with his ailing wife, then it is certainly in line with all his other good decisions.

Which is why I liked him in the first place.

[balantz]

238. I really don't know what to say,

except that this country is run by the corporate pigs and they prop up and choose our "leaders" for us. The way the media is owned now by the corporations, and the way the politicians are owned, they choose for us while they keep us distracted with lies and side-shows. The real issues will never get tackled this way and we will continue to have inefective leadership and little reform for the little people. You all who like the glamour-cardboard, bought and paid for, same old shit republicrats who dress in sheeps clothing and say all the pretty words and line up in all the "right" crowds can keep them. I think I'll just be going back to practicing zen.

:nuke: Same old shit, same old day. Watch the world just waste away.

[MilesColtrane]

239. Fuck me

:grr: :cry:

[9119495]

242. A.G. or Supreme Court...

your choice Senator Edwards.

[Spiffarino]

244. There went my money

Damn. I could have spent it on Obama's campaign.

He said he was in until the convention. What changed?

[ashandaurynsgramma]

245. from here on out,

it's nothing but theater. *sigh*
My best blessings to you Elizabeth and John -

[Seabiscuit]

246. WE ARE DOOMED. I haven't felt this down since JFK, MLK and RFK were shot.

The corporate media rule this country and all hope is lost. Thanks to the gullibililty and wilfull ignorance of the majority of the Murikan public.

I've lost all interest in the election now. There's nothing left but to watch but a media circus freakshow. No thank you.

[Name removed]

420. Deleted message

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

[Seabiscuit]

426. This country is doomed, thanks in no small part to

ignorant, arrogant assholes like you.

I wouldn't buy a used car from Hillary. She's a pathological liar, who isn't sincere about anything but her own over-reaching ambition.

[dmosh42]

252. If this is the case, I'll hold my nose, get down in the mud, and....

back Hillary. Being that McCain will probably win, we need to let 'Big Dawg' loose, and since Hillary has the big machine, plus most of the female vote, she'll be the winner. I know Rupert Murdoch will be staying in the blue room probably, but at least we might get some health care and some other programs, just so she can be in for 8 yrs. Let's forget our ideals again, and just win this!

[Ghost Dog]

308. Many who choose Clinton appear to expect McCain to eventually win.

That doesn't seem to be the case with Obama supporters...

[Iwillnevergiveup]

253. This is not good news at all

and something is up. John had been actively campaigning and Trippi (I think just yesterday or the day before) sent out a fundraising plea that was reminiscent of the good old Dean Days. While I am disappointed hugely, this decision is apparently based on factors that are out of John's control. Wonder just how many other "Super Tuesday" folks voted early for him like I did?

[TexasBushwhacker]

257. I agree, no GOOD reason to not stay until Super Tuesday

unless something is seriously wrong, like Elizabeth's health taking a turn for the worse. I would think he'll still be on the ballots for Super Tuesday, and if he's not going to endorse Clinton or Obama up front, then there is absolutely no political reason to drop out now. SIX DAYS - SIX DAYS - SIX DAYS!!!

[7horses]

254. I won't believe it until I hear it from...

John Edwards. I've already voted early for him.

I been saying, 'Go John go' I guess that is not appropriate now, so...

Stay John stay!!!

[Stand and Fight]

256. Then Hillary Clinton has my support...

While this is most unfortunate, I strongly feel that we don't need to try to make nice with the Republicans. I feel that it is important that EVERY American have access to quality health care -- including those, like my wife, with preexisting conditions. Hillary Clinton was on that bandwagon when few members of her own party were.... Therefore, Senator Hillary Clinton receives my full support. I don't need hopes and dreams and "bipartisanship". I need someone who will take the fight to the right, and that someone is Hillary Rodham Clinton.

[Riverman]

260. This a Major Dissapointment!

As someone who has been involved, more directly active when younger, and now just another guy yelling from the wilderness, and being an optimist and somewhat of dreamer (so I have been told since a kid), I am so dissapointed and disheartened that John Edwards if now dropping out of the race. If it is because that his wife needs him nearby her, family and home if her cancer has worsened then I understand that and pray that they can get through this well. IF he is leaving, as the pundits are saying, because he can't get "traction" and win any of the Super Tues states then that is the sad state of corporate driven politics in the US. Maybe it has never been any other way! The wealthly have always controlled the candidates and with owning the printing presses, own the public channels of communications and information dissemination.

Thank you John Edwards, Elisabeth and your family for giving of yourselves so unselfishly for so long! Your fight, our fight, must continue is many forms! Presidential politics is just one, a major one, stage from which to educate the citizenry of what we are facing - pretty grim stuff, as a nation, and a planet. We are all in this together and there is no escaping the negative impacts of our current path, if we do not change course!

[Dukkha]

261. Get ready for the second great depression

the rich/poor division rift will be torn so wide in the coming years no one in the middle will have a chance to go on as normal. The American dream will die.
They say you get the government you deserve. A massive economic failure is possibly the humility and punishment America deserves for blindly and greedily supporting BushCo and Americorp.

[Riverman]

266. I Hate to say I Agree! It is serious and the Sheaple Won't Look Up!

[GoddessOfGuinness]

471. Maybe THEN they'll be ready for Edwards.

Maybe.

[TXDem24]

262. Looking forward.

I am a strong supporter of John Edwards and his message detailing the corporate dominance of this country. I am sorry to see him leave, but it is his life and I have to respect his decision.

To all that want to run away from the process, I have three words: Supreme Court Justices. We have three aging "liberal" (for the lack of a better word) justices that will be replaced in the next administration. Any Republican administration will lock in a majority for a radical conservative agenda for an entire generation. If anybody thinks that Clinton or Obama will act in the same manner, then run away. All is lost.

Not me. I'm going to fight these bastards with every vote I have. Belly-aching and whining doesn't do the job.

Fight the Right. They only think they are.

[jwirr]

411. That is what I was thinking. I will go to the polls knowing that the next

president will pick the next SCOTUS. As for the primary I am not sure what I want to do yet. I like the idea of voting for JE as a protest vote. It is up to the other 2 candidates to show me why I should vote for them.

[MilesColtrane]

265. (getting up off of floor in fetal position)

It seems that the only chance for a Democratic president now lies in the hands of Republican voters.

Mitt Romney you're our only hope.

[halobeam]

269. maybe you ought to get back on the floor

:shrug:

[MilesColtrane]

270. Just stating the polling facts as they stand now.

National head to head polling puts McCain in a tie with both Hillary and Obama (and we all know that ties go to the dealer: Diebold), while both candidates beat Romney by double digits.

[Krashkopf]

288. Johnny we hardly knew 'ye . . .

and I, for one, am sad to see you go. Thank you for pushing the debate to THE LEFT. To the extent that both Obama or Clinton are talking about PROGRESSIVE, POPULIST issues, we owe that to you and to Dennis Kucinich.

As we speak, my friends and family are at a huge Obama rally in Denver. I just called, and they said that the mood in the 7,200 seat arena (which they expect to be filled to overflowing) is ELECTRIC!

I told them to BRING ME BACK AN OBAMA BUMPER STICKER!

[democrank]

271. Bless you, John Edwards.

~PEACE~

[Indenturedebtor]

273. A sad day

I had also hoped that he would hold out. :(

I will now cast my lot in with Obama, though he's way more corporate than Edwards, from what I've seen he's less of a shill than HRC.

:( Gobama :(

[RedEarth]

274. He was my candidate, but Tuesday Obama will get my vote

[Hugin]

275. Well, darn...

That's how far my endorsement goes. :eyes:

Pretty obvious, I'm no Caroline Kennedy! :D

Guess my only choice now is to vote for the candidate with whom I have the most in common (or at least some say so)...
Mercer!

Thanks for giving it a great shot, John Edwards! :yourock:

[OzarkDem]

276. Americans are screwn

I'll vote for Hillary because she's has the best health care reform plan of the remaining candidates , but after the Kerry experience, I see no point in campaigning for her.

DC Dems don't respond to voters during campaigns, they only listen to their advisors who are hopelessly out of touch. There's no point in expending wasted effort on another poorly run campaign.

Stand or fall on your own DC Dems, we no longer have input into the process.

[HDPaulG]

283. MSM finally mentions John....

How sad is it when MSM mentioned more about JE today than the previous 6 months? I heard more about JE today on NPR (WHAD-Wisconsin)re: him dropping out of the race and what message he brought to the campaign. If this is due to Elizabeth's health, I support John and shall pray for the family.

Back in 1992, Russ Feingold was the 'third' Democratic candidate in the Senate Primary. He prevailed as the 'underdog' due to all the pickering , squabbling and mud slinging from the front runners...I see that analogy here with JE...Stay John !

[ToughLuck]

285. I am so sad Edwards did not get support..I will give my vote to

Obama. No other candidate of the top 3 spoke about the abuse of executive privilege like Edwards did, I truly hope he continues to be a voice in this political process..don't know if he would campaign for Obama..sad day today!

[NMDemDist2]

287. well crap, there goes my plan for Super Tuesday n/t

[Greyskye]

293. Damn it! I just voted for him in my vote by mail primary.

Filled out the bubble last night. Now I've either got to just send it in as it is as a protest vote, go get another ballot, or just say to hell with it and wait for the general election.

:grr: :mad:

[Harry Monroe]

299. My prediction...

...he'll be chosen as Obama's running mate. An excellent ticket, Obama/Edwards.

[leftcoastie]

303. IF I STILL VOTE FOR EDWARDS

on Super Tuesday, does he get the delegates to use at the convention?

[KillCapitalism]

304. Man, this is sad news to wake up to!

:cry:

I had big hopes for an Edwards Presidency, he would have done so much for the poor & working class of our nation who are falling further into the abyss.

I guess now I'll vote for Barack Obama on Super Tuesday because I believe he will be a more positive force in the White House than Hillary. I also think he could beat McCain, who will undoubtedly be the GOP nominee now.

[Pale Blue Dot]

310. For the first time in many years, I will probably not vote in the primary.

And I'm taking a "wait and see" attitude toward the general.

[LibDemAlways]

320. Me, too. There's no way I could force myself to

vote for what's left at this point. Just awful.

[SomeGuyInEagan]

312. My caucus (Minnesota) is Super Tuesday ...

... guess I don't get to vote for Edwards as I was leaning.

He drops a week *before* Super Tuesday? I suspect something is going on behind the scenes.

[importDavid]

313. Obama-Edwards 2008

Let the smoke clear for a day or two, then endorse Obama over the weekend, just in time for Super Tuesday.

Once Obama gets the nomination then have Obama select you as a running mate.

I truly think that an Obama-Edwards ticket would be unstoppable.

[karlrschneider]

315. Reverse the names, they would have a good chance. The way you put it, no chance in hell.

Unfortunately.

[sakabatou]

318. Goddammit

x(

[Cant trust em]

322. That's too bad

well John, you gave it a good ride. Please do something valuable and big with this time. God bless you and your family.

[dbackjon]

323. This sucks

Freaking primary season kills our choices, once again.

I HATE THE PRIMARY SETUP.

[Vinca]

324. I've got nothing but respect for Edwards and I hope there's a place

for him in the next administration.

[kaygore]

325. I wish he would have at least stayed through 2/5 as he was

gaining momentum. I am so disappointed. I can not vote for or support either of the candidates left standing. Go ahead and flame me, but more of the same that we have seen since 2006 from the Democrats will not serve this country! I also feel that the two left standing can not defeat McCain or Romney, so we will be back at square one with a House and Senate of Democrats that do nothing and a president that panders to corporations and the far right.

This is very sad news. I thought that he had pledged to stay in until the end.

[ellie]

333. That's too bad

I don't like Obama or Hillary.

[Kitsune]

334. Well hell. We're screwed. *nt*

[Kajsa]

335. When will we hear from him?

When is he making the announcement?

I'm in the Pacific Time Zone- Good Gawd-

I am sooo down, I feel like a very good man
just got hammered into the ground by the
corporate moguls.

[NOLALady]

349. 10:AM your time.

In about an hour.

[Kajsa]

376. Thanks, NOLALady!

I just need to hear from John.

:pals:

[boricua79]

344. how about an Obama (P) and Edwards (VP) ticket?

would be kinda nice. History making AND substantively liberal at the same time.

Plus, I think most people would get more excited about that ticket than a Clinton / Edwards one.

[allisonthegreat]

345. Oh dear...Vancouver bound I am...n/t

[martymar64]

513. Can I come with you?

America is no more. I just want to leave.
Any Canadian single women looking for a husband?

[golddigger]

346. I think he struck a deal with Hillary...

after the last debate. If you remember he met with Hillary in the Green Room I don't know what was promised VP...no, A.G. possible.

[geardaddy]

347. Well, it looks like

I'll have to caucus "uncommitted" :(

[jwirr]

350. The two best leaders in our nation are out: Gore and Edwards.

Hopefully they will continue to find ways to reach out to the American public with their sound ideas.

[leftcoastie]

370. It's funny I thought

from the beginning that a Gore/Edwards ticket would have won and would have put a stick into the eye of Karl Rove.

[George II]

352. This should ratchet up the Obama vs Clinton venom from faux "Democrats"!!

[emmadoggy]

356. *#&!!*#&!!!*&#*$!@*#!!!

This is unreal. I am SOOO upset right now. We are totally screwn and I have now lost almost any glimmer of hope for this country and the world. I am completely disgusted by this turn of events and GODDAMN! am I mad at the media!

Can someone tell me.....has it EVER happened before, that even BEFORE SuperTuesday we are down to just TWO candidates???? Our political system is totally fucked. I mean seriously, WTF??? TWO candidates and we're not even to SUPERFUCKINTUESDAY??!!!
And why is it that the Repukes still have how many candidates?? (I don't even know for sure, because I try to ignore them as much as possible.) I know this, it's way more than our side has. And why? The f'n MSM.

DAMN, I'm pissed right now. What a joke. What a fucking joke.

I hope there isn't something bad behind this decision. It just makes no sense, the way he has been talking of staying in until the convention (I wasn't sure he would really make it that far, but I FOR SURE thought he would stay until super tuesday.) and with the fundraising they have been doing. They have raised more money this month than in any other 3 month period, I believe, and just sent out a fundraising email to push them over a big goal.

Maybe this news is why, from the moment I woke up this morning, I felt like crap. I actually didn't log on to DU until a few hours into the morning here today, which is unusual for me, because I've been feeling queasy and crappy this morning. Maybe my body was trying to tell me something.
ARRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

[NOLALady]

357. This is so disappointing.

I really do not believe that Obama nor Hillary can beat the Republican candidate.

[Javaman]

358. So then there were 4.

What a sorry fucking lot. This is what america has to choose from? I get the choice of choosing the corporate shill, the lobbiest shill, the big pharma shill or the oil shill.

now, mix and match who you want to be your prez.

is there any doubt that we the people really have no say in the matter?

[kenfrequed]

359. Damn

Now there are no Democrats left running that I find worthy of the name. Once again the progressive liberal voice in the party has been shut out by the media conglomerates, the corporate scum, the party insidrs, and the damnable DLC.

Sigh, I guess I am going to have to fixate on the local elections now. There really is no point otherwise.

[LibDemAlways]

360. I haven't turned on the tv today, and probably won't. But

I'm totally pissed that Edwards will get more coverage today than he has throughout this entire process. Goddamn whores.

[NOLALady]

361. If Edwards is not picked up as a VP

for the first time in my life, I will not take part in this sham of an election.

Heavens, why watch American Idol when you can watch the clowns run for POTUS.

[LongTomH]

362. I'm floored, too!

I had so many hopes centered on John's campaign. :cry:

[Gelon]

363. Burned!

Man, I feel burned. This just proves to me that you can´t trust ANY politician not to lie to you. I believed he was going to hang until the convention. WTF? He would have picked up 15 to 20% of the available delegates on Tuesday.And there´s another debate left...So, uh, do I get my money back? Surely, not! I´m writing to the Edwards' campaign to tell them how disgusted I am. I mean, I ordered a fuckin' bumper sticker, over 2 weeks ago, and it's still not here, and I gave money then, and again on the 18th (yeah, sure, we were gonna raise $7M...In your dreams!). So what do I do with the worthless sticker? What a joke. I think we were all used.

[YvonneCa]

364. John Edwards would have been a...

...very good president. His campaign changed the debate in this country, and for that I am very grateful.

My thoughts are with him, his family, and his supporters (especially those on DU) today. :grouphug:

[Wisconsin for Hill]

367. Edwards was never viable

He seems like a nice enough person, and I wish him well in what will probably be his retirement, but all Edwards ever was was a fringe candidate like Kucinich, but better funded. It's time for the Edwards people to stop crying in their beers now and join the HRC machine.

[Perry Mason]

385. HRC Machine? Nice Orwellian figure of speech...

Listen to yourself! Oh my God!

[HughBeaumont]

387. I would sooner ROAST than vote for pro-war, pro-job offshoring Madam Windsock.

"Fringe candidate" my ass.

I'll vote for that "fringe candidate" 1,000 times before I'll cast one THOUGHT for "The Inevitable".

[Wisconsin for Hill]

405. good luck with that then

You can be just like the Nader voters in 2000. I thought this was DEMOCRATIC underground?

[HughBeaumont]

410. I didn't VOTE for Nader, damn it.

I voted for Gore and Kerry. I never believed the "lesser of the two evils" with them.

Not so much with HRC. She spells bad news for our chances against their strongest candidate.

And this IS Democratic Underground. For after all, what is a major tenet of the word Democratic but the RIGHT as a concerned citizen to make choices??

Good luck with your war corporatist, pro-job-offshorer.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=132&topic_id=4173163#4173243

[Name removed]

416. Deleted message

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

[HughBeaumont]

434. Yeah, toss the people under the bus who gave you just about every freedom you HAVE.

Read your history. YOU'RE the problem. NOT me. Capitulators never made an ounce of difference in history or otherwise.

[Wisconsin for Hill]

494. Pretenders/dreamers all of you

I'll say it again: GET ON BOARD OR GET OUT OF THE WAY!

[martymar64]

517. Fuck you

It's people like you that'll cause many of us to go to the green party. No more corporate sellout warmongers.

[JimGinPA]

525. Didn't Edwards Vote To Authorize The War In Iraq...

Who's the sellout warmonger??????

[martymar64]

529. At least he apologized

Hillary still thinks the war is AOK, same with Obama. If that's what you want in a leader . . .

[Spiffarino]

527. Sieg HILL!

[HughBeaumont]

533. Right, because being a Lieberdem has gotten the party SO far these past 12 years.

:eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes:

YOU'RE EITHER WITH US OR AGAINST US!!! SIEK HELP!!!1!1!!!!1!1!

[KamaAina]

427. Then roast you shall, if she happens to get the nomination

by "not casting one thought for 'The Inevitable'", all you'd be doing would be helping to ensure a McCain or Romney pResidency, as well as (certainly with McCain) more endless, senseless wars.

[HughBeaumont]

430. Wow. And with reasoning like THAT, why WOULDN'T I jump on the Windsock bandwagon?

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=132&topic_id=4173163#4173243

[KamaAina]

445. No need to do that just yet.

Plenty of room left on Obama's.

But IF Windsock takes the nomination, who'll it be? Windsock -- or "Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran" McCain or empty suit investment capitalist Romney?

[Perry Mason]

489. Actually, I might as well vote McCain

Although I frankly think we should have left him in the Hanoi Hilton, at least he ADMITS he is a Republican, rather than pretending to be a liberal but always voting as is dictated by the corporate fascists massahs and failing to represent the people. That is far more dispicable. Voting for McCain, I might assure another Democratic defeat and at least hope that after it happens enough they might finally get the message that a) we want REAL liberal change and b) yes they DO have to address massive election fraud and c) yes, people DO want national healthcare and finally d) Republican-lite is not a winning strategy. I think you've convinced me to vote McCain, thanks...

[KamaAina]

391. Oops! Your Hillary avatar is showing

It's time for the Edwards people to stop crying in their beers now

I thought us Edwards people were all latte-suckers? :sarcasm:

This Edwards person says GOBAMA!!!

[Wisconsin for Hill]

408. whatever

When Obummer drops out after super Tuesday I'll be back to remind you of your stupid post.

[Binka]

452. Snarky Little Shit Aren't You?

Who the fuck do you think you are talking to long time and respected DUers like a punk? Ignore for you and not a moment too soon.

[HughBeaumont]

558. You can take it off of ignore now . . .

. . . because WFH got granited!!!

Ahhhh, nothing like one less worthless POS cleared from my Red X Toilet.

[Spiffarino]

436. Fuck Mrs. Doubtfire

Edwards is out? Fine. I'm going with Obama to the convention.

[Wisconsin for Hill]

497. good...you go with Obama to the convention...

because when he droups out after super Tuesday, you and Obummer can sit at the convention and WATCH Hillary accept the nomination.

[Spiffarino]

526. And you can watch in November

...as Hillary unites the Republicans and sweeps dozens of them into office who might otherwise have had no chance. There is that level of hatred of the Clintons among Republicans and even some Democrats.

Unfair though it is, Hillary is a polarizing figure. No matter how much she triangulates her positions and plays ball with the Reichwing, she will still be detested by 50% of the voting public. She may as well stop farting around with them and come to the light. Maybe then, even if she does lose, she'll have done it for the side of good.

[martymar64]

515. Fuck that shit!

Hillary sucks, Obama sucks, too.

[Political Heretic]

371. I am so sad. But I now support Obama.

[Wisconsin for Hill]

553. I have but one word for you:

duhhhhhhhhh.....

From one loser to another I guess

[Perry Mason]

373. How predictable! Thank you DNC.

Just great.

Once again exactly the same as always, we will be asked to select from a couple of Rich Corporately Funded War Supporting Health Care For Profit Phoney Ass Liberal Republicans-in-Sheep's-Clothing Pre-Selected Media Approved Candidates.

NO WONDER PEOPLE DO NOT PARTICIPATE IN THE SYSTEM! No wonder the "average" American doesn't even bother to vote. Why? It's not like anyone is going to represent US, not unless you're Haliburton, United Healthcare, or American Airlines.

I weep for the future.

[BrklynLiberal]

375. This is almost as disappointing as the '04 results....

[LongTomH]

378. There's an open thread on Edwards blog:

Nothing on his main website; but, an open thread has been started on the Edwards blog site.

[LongTomH]

380. Now, the Edwards blog site is down temporarily.

All his supporters must be getting online.

[Duncan]

384. WTF?!?!

We are being so fucked over by the corprofascist machine.
Even though the fault lies with the corporate media and with the majority of voters who apparently don't care to understand what the candidates' actual agendas are, I am surprised and very disappointed in John Edwards.

[BattyDem]

389. Oh damn ... I really wanted to vote for him next week.

:-(

This seems rather sudden ... I hope Elizabeth is okay.

Well ... I am now officially a member of the Obama team. :hi:

[bdamomma]

394. is C span covering his speech?

[kirby]

402. Yes, but he is late... n/t

[KansDem]

395. DAMN IT!!!

I was going to caucus for him next Tuesday here in Kansas! Why couldn't he have waited until after that?

First, I was supporting Kucinich. Then when he dropped out, I went with Edwards. Now :wtf: do I do?

:(

[FloridaJudy]

396. FUCK!

First Kucinich, now Edwards. I'm starting to wonder if I'm the Kiss of Death for candidates.

I do believe that's the first time I've dropped the f-bomb on DU. I was saving it for something as upsetting as this.

[L. Coyote]

398. And then there were two. Any bets on VP offers to Edwards? My guess, two!

[desertflamingo]

400. WRITE TO HIM!!!

i just wrote - sobbing - to john and demanded he keep his promise to those who have given money we can barely afford, spent hours and hours supporting him because we believe he can make it. i'm in california. for the first time in my 30+ years of voting, it's the first time i can remember when MY vote might have made a difference AND the first time i would have been able to vote for someone i feel passionate about.

WRITE TO HIM.

EDWARDS '08

[TexasBushwhacker]

412. I did, it's here

SIX DAYS


http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=4290412&mesg_id=4290412

[emilyg]

401. I am very sorry for all the Edwards supporters.

Edwards was my #2 choice. Go Hillary.

[Haole Girl]

403. John Edwards is a good man

It's sad that nobody can win a presidential election, any longer, without a seemingly endless amount of money.

It's just sad.

[Kajsa]

406. Yes it is, KC2.

I was just thinking of that.

;( :pals:

[Wisconsin for Hill]

409. Edwards lacked money because he lacked ideas and experience

It's time to face facts. HRC is the nominee and it's time for you to rally behind her.

[Haole Girl]

418. You are entitled to your opinion

But your opinion is not a fact.

[Wisconsin for Hill]

421. um.... actually that is a fact

Check the figures for fundraising and polls. It's not a fact because I say it is, it's a fact because numbers don't lie

[Perry Mason]

491. Numbers don't lie?

Dollars and people are two different things.

If we accept the logic that it takes but money to win, sit back and prepare for Republican administrations for the rest of all eternity.

The vast majority of the American people can ill-afford to support a presidential candidate in any significant degree, and it is ABSOLUTELY TOTALLY WRONG that money wins over sincerity, capability, honor, integrity or competence.

[MilesColtrane]

506. No thanks.

Of the two left standing, I'll vote and contribute to the one who didn't authorize the slaughter of hundreds of thousands.

[Kajsa]

541. " because he lacked ideas and experience"

is not fact, it's your opinion.

" HRC is the nominee and it's time for you to rally behind her."

again, another one of your opinions.Very demanding, arrogant
and pushy, btw.

You haven't done too well for your first big adventure on the
DU boards.

I'm sure you're on plenty of ignore lists.

[earth mom]

552. You really need to shut the fuck up. nt

[ooglymoogly]

417. but mainly a corporate media nod which Edwards did not have

nor did Kucinich. That is why they were knocked out of the race by non coverage. But hey look on the bright side. The corporate media will be all over this story like ants on syrup....crowing and flexing their total control over what candidates we can have and what candidates we cannot have. They prefer (demand) a candidate they can handily beat and when I say "they" I mean corporate media and the GOP because they are one and the same.

[Kajsa]

404. Let's hear what John has to say.

He hasn't spoken yet.

10:18 PST

[TexasBushwhacker]

407. Yup, got the feed going on MSNBC

It's 12:20 and I have video, but no sound yet.

[AllyCat]

413. Doomed to have a corporatist in the White House in '09

Guess that's what I should have expected since this is a corporotacracy, not a democracy anymore.

After 5 stupid states, he's done. This primary/caucus system is for the birds.

[argyl]

415. This is a money saver for me.I've donated to John's campaign but Barack or Hillary

will get my vote and nothing more.They're both quite well funded as is and can make due without the additional couple of hundred dollars I'd have donated if Edwards were still in the race.

He'd make a great Attorney General.

[yurbud]

419. this Edwards supporter is going to give money to Obama now

[Politicub]

422. Endorsing Hillary, maybe?

He and Hillary were scheduled to speak tonight at the same event in Georgia. It's likely John canceled his trip here based on the news of the day, but if is still on the books... could it mean he may give a nod to Hillary? Be still my beating heart...

I know it's a long shot, since these two have traded barbs on the trail, and Obama has claimed the global cool mantle. But, stranger things have happened. No matter what happens, I will miss John on the campaign trail and in the debates. He elevated the race, and like Plaid Adder said, began giving us a vocabulary in which to talk about class differences in America.

[humbled_opinion]

423. Sad Really one of the two candidates in the race that really stands

for the ideals of the Democratic Party that I belong too... The other one is just so intent on her own power grabbing that she and her machine will trample anything that stands between her and the oval office...

[eowyn_of_rohan]

425. Obama could have had the decency to wait for John Edwards to announce his plans

before speaking publicly about him in the past tense. While we are glued to the TV sets, waiting to hear from John Edwards, Obama seizes the moment, while speaking in Denver, to make SURE he gets his mug in our faces... very opportunistic and tacky.

[JimGinPA]

437. So you think he should have postponed his scheduled campaign stop,

or just ignored Edwards call to him? Either way it wouldn't have satisfied those looking for a reason to slam him.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

456. He should have kept his trap shut about Edwards until EDWARDS made the official announcement.

Didn't have to look very hard to find this reason to slam him. BO made a point of seizing the moment when all were tuned in to hear EDWARDS, to make himself the center of attention.

[JimGinPA]

460. Maybe Edwards Should Have Waited 'Till After His Announcement

To call Obama & Hillary and demand they make his "fight for the poor" campaign a central issue in their campaigns. Seems to me that's what both Hillary & Obama did (before his speech) - honor his wish. Hillary did it in an interview - Obama did it in a scheduled campaign stop. Maybe you should refocus your bitterness at the repubs.

[eowyn_of_rohan]

487. Not much diff to me between Repubs and media-sponsored Dems right now

Dont trust any of them.

[golddigger]

470. Yep! Arrogance...

When I saw him up there on my TV screen before Edwards made the official announcement I turned to look at my wife and we said the same thing at once...arrogant. He wanted to beat Hillary to the punch just like an arrogant little kid.:grr:

[Gloria]

498. Another example of this ego and lack of class. Can't vote for him...

do NOT trust his instincts at all!! This is simple respect, which he can't handle.

[stlsaxman]

546. Agreed- it shows absolutely no sense of decorum on Obamas part.

Tactless.

Arrogant.

[OhioChick]

429. This News is a

Sad day For America.

[dsharp88]

431. The only candidate to not forget New Orleans...

[Dr Fate]

432. That sucks- I was hoping he would stick around. Edwards- you are the man!!

Great guy, great DEM, great candidate- I wish you the best!!!

I guess that offically makes me an Obama man.

[ReformedChris]

441. It's a damn shame

Edwards was truly a great candidate and one that stood out to me as someone that could dominate in the general. Hopefully the other two will learn from his class and ability to win the big one in November!

[hyphenate]

442. I haven't felt this bad

since the news after the 2004 election results. The MSM played us all for fools, and decided to be kingmakers. Few wealthy Democrats have nedia outlets to manipulate the news and steer the populace away from the only candidate who had all of our best interests at heart.

I will throw my support now behind Hillary Rodham Clinton, and hope for the best. There is so much work to do now, and I hope we are able to complete it.

I hope it is a brokered convention--perhaps something good will come out of the current situation, and people across the country might gain a little more insight into the politics of our country.

Everyone loves a winner? When the "winner" is owned part and parcel by special interest groups and there are fewer, less well backed candidates to choose from, the "winner" is a difficult concept to grasp.

[mzmolly]

443. Thank you Mr. Edwards for giving US a voice, and for your continued patriotism.

We've not heard the last of JE. :hi:

[Radical Activist]

448. Sorry Edwards folks

I know this is sad news for a lot of people here. Hopefully he'll have a major role in the next Democratic administration and either way I'm sure he'll go on to do other good things.

[Kajsa]

455. Thanks, Radical Activist

i appreciate your post.

:pals:

[golddigger]

472. Thank you Radical Activist...

Here's praying that whoever the nominee is they will pick John for A.G. spot.

[IamyourTVandIownyou]

462. Good, another IWR voter down.

Hill and her IWR vote is next.

Change is here.

[DutchLiberal]

463. He never had a chance. These elections are only about personality; a white man can't win this time.

95% of the people base their vote on race or gender, not on ideas.

[Buns_of_Fire]

466. Obviously, my support for a candidate is the Kiss of Death.

First, Kucinich. Now, Edwards. I'm thinking of contacting the remaining candidates and seeing how much they're willing to pay for me NOT to support them.

Or maybe I'll just amble over to the RNC site and write volumes of praise for their candidates and tell them how much I LUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUV republics and everything they stand for.

That should fix their asses good 'n' proper. :evilgrin:

[Nicole Lambeth]

469. well, crap

I was really hoping Edwards would pull out and that I would
have the privilege of voting for him in my state's primary. So
now what I do? 

First Kucinich and now Edwards. My poor lil' liberal heart is
a-bleedin! (This now also means I must more seriously research
both Obama and Clinton. Double damn.)

[d_b]

473. I'm crushed today over this

:cry:

[eowyn_of_rohan]

488. I am too

Heart-wrenching disappointment and such a shock... I wanted him in 2004 but after he dropped out, reluctantly joined the Kerry camp. Not feeling good about anyone else, this time, particularly since the MSM media is forcing them on us, and destroyed J.E's chances intentionally...

[FATCATs]

474. Man, WTF

I thought quiting was not an option !:argh:

[bkcc]

476. Sorry to see you go, Mr. Edwards.

Even though it was becoming more and more apparent that he didn't have a chance, John Edwards was still my favorite contender.

[knight_of_the_star]

477. Damn

Looks like I don't have a dog in this fight. I might POSSIBLY put a check in the presidential column this November, but one of those empty suits running better give me a DAMN good reason to other than another GOP in office, at this point that won't do it for me since they both seem to want to bend over to them anyway.

[SavageDem]

482. Goddamnit!

I was just three feet from him last night here in Minnesota, and everything was wine and roses!

Well, I want him to take care of his family. No one should miss their kids growing up. And maybe, just maybe, we'll get the perfect ticket of Obama-Edwards. Now THAT would be a can't-miss duo!

[feistydem]

483. Hopes Dashed! I didn't get to vote for the best candidate of my lifetime.

...and I don't think I can bring myself to take part in the BushClintonBushClinton reign.

I liked Obama plenty until he started going too far to be friends with the right. They deserve a good beating for what they've done to our country, not an olive branch. I'm also very uncomfortable with his frequency of "present" votes. Have some courage, please, and take a stand!

What's a newly-undecided voter to do on Tuesday???

;(

[Initech]

484. Damn this sucks.

We could have made some real fucking change in this country... damn it.

[goodgd_yall]

485. Here's to putting forth a good fight

You you, John :toast:

[Danger Mouse]

504. I was undecided between Edwards and Obama...

now it looks like I'm going to vote for Obama.
This is sad news, Edwards did a great job.
I hope Elizabeth is okay.

[DogPoundPup]

508. He was my last hope to restore AMERICA~

and what was once was called land of the "Free"...guess I can fogeddabout that. So long America, it was nice while you lasted.

[Coes]

509. "Today, I am suspending my campaign for the Democratic nomination for the Presidency. "

link to the press release

[wordpix]

510. thanks, John and Elizabeth, for trying. I was gonna vote for you here in CT

[UpInArms]

514. (Hillary) Clinton: Edwards called to say he's dropping out (is this where the rumor started?)

This topic has been moved by the moderator of this forum.
It can be found at:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x4297814

[focusfan]

516. i wrote John Edwards on myspace

and told  him I was crushed he was dropping out and he could
do bettter than Obama or Clinton.and that people on here liked
him. 

[BreweryYardRat]

519. FUCK!

Ugh, I wish I had time to imitate Spider Jerusalem and type "fuck" 8000 times.

[Stranded]

523. This sucks...

First Kucinich, now Edwards. A myriad of voices and positions ensures all of the issues are talked about. I believed Edwards was the right person for the job. At least there is Obama.

[Kermitt Gribble]

524. What a bummer to come home from work to.

:cry:

[earthlover]

532. I am deeply saddened by Edwards ending his campaign.

And even more saddened by what led to this decision.

Edwards beat Clinton in Iowa. Not by much, but he was still 2nd place. Logically, that would have kept him in the mix. In reality, Hillary leap frogged Edwards, as if her 3rd place finish didn't matter. So, in the eyes of the main stream media, Edwards pretty much was viewed as the loser of Iowa. And ever since pretty much ignored by the media.

This is the type of media ignoring that is unconscionable. It really was the media that made the race, after Iowa a two person race....between number 1 and number 3....incredible.

I don't know how this is going to affect the race. At this point, that is secondary.

The cause Edwards is fighting for does not die with his campaign. We all know it is a formidable one.

[windoe]

538. Edwards' poison was being anti corporate,

was cut out of MSM when he took a strong anti lobby/corp stance. I am so sad tonight, what a letdown. I like Obama, trust him personally, and am sorely hoping he is anti corporate enough but has chosen not to grandstand on this issue in order to make it. I will vote for him. Please Gods I hope Obama will bring our troops home and unite our country, I believe he can do this.
A toast to the John Edwards family, may he and his wife fare well.

[minnesota_liberal]

539. Hopefully he worked out a deal for a VP spot

Why else would someone bail 6 days from Super Tuesday?

[and-justice-for-all]

540. FUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCKKKKKKKK !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad::mad:

[jeff30997]

542. My poor American friends.This is a really bad news.

At the borders of your country you should put up big billboards that say:

Abandon all hope ye who enter here.:scared:

[marlonjose]

543. It is unclear who this will help

Clinton? Obama? I can't seem to figure it out.

[ozone_man]

544. He helped swing the debate left from the corporate middle.

I just wish he could have stayed in all the way to the convention.

Eventually we'll get there, but not this year. The inertia is too great. In four years, fueled by a deep recession or depression even, the country will be ready for a John Edwards type populist.

[stlsaxman]

545. I have no one left to vote for in the primary. For what it's worth I'll vote the Dem ticket in Nov.

Corporate Amerika wins again.

How depressing.

Fuck politics.

[barb162]

555. I'm pretty much in agreement with you. I may write him in on Tuesday

if I can.

[bitchkitty]

548. I did not allow myself to hope,

because I saw from the beginning how the game was going to be played. I am so, so deeply disappointed, but not as devastated as I would have been if I had allowed myself to believe that the MSM was going to change their stripes.

It doesn't matter to me who gets it now. I would prefer Obama to Clinton, but it's only a preference. It was never my choice.

[Doctor_J]

549. This supporter is going out to the ledge

When I come back, who knows? Probably Obama. But I am keeping my avatar for awhile anyway

[earth mom]

550. Well, I FOR ONE AM DEVASTATED. Allowed myself to hope that people would care enough to want change

and could see through the corporate media whores manipulation of everything and everyone.

Guess people have to hit rock bottom before they will learn that this country has been stolen from them by corporate interests. It's the last thing I wanted to happen, but now it's gonna happen because the corporate bastards aren't gonna let the middle class or working class survive. They are "global" and will make sure that the people in this country are reduced to third world status before it's all said and done. Peons make the best workers doncha know? :puke:

Hang on to your hats folks because you ain't seen nothing yet!

Just remember, I and a bunch of people on DU warned you.

:nuke:

[Stalwart]

554. The Day the Music Died

[NuttyFluffers]

556. wow, your democratic primary is almost as unpleasant as my republican one now!

and i'm registered this way as a joke! not good people, not good at all. how in the world did you manage to piss off so many people in your own party? i can understand in mine, all my candidate choices are loony tunes; i expect madness and frustration about my primary. but it's like the democratic party screwed the pooch on this one. the dem base now seems almost as dispirited as the republicans now, the sheeple rubes that they are. how can you mess up such a sure thing and lose all that fire and passion so quickly?

you might need to teach your party leaders a lesson, just so they won't take you for granted so much; otherwise you'll be used, abused, and ignored like the republican voters around me that i watch with such amusement.

[OneBlueSky]

557. what the corporatocracy doesn't want simply doesn't happen . . . ever . . .

the lesson here is that we don't count for shit . . . all of the decisions are made for us and, as usual, we're left with the lesser of two evils to vote for -- in the primary AND in the general . . .

at this point I don't even care . . . whoever is elected won't end the war, won't fight for universal healthcare, won't do ANY of the things that really need doing to save this country and the planet . . . he or she particularly won't insist on strict corporate regulation and ending corporate control of our government . . . all those corporate campaign dollars ensure that . . .

as usual, it's business as usual . . . and I can't think of more tragic turn of events for this nation . . . all we can do now is wait for the collapse to become complete . . . and it won't be long . . .

[MilesColtrane]

561. The Post-Edwards Effect...

Edwards quits the race-->Corporate America breathes a sigh of relief and the Dow Jones surges over 200 points knowing that they own the remaining candidates.

Something else that's curious...Suddenly the last two Democrats make nice. It's almost as if it doesn't really matter which one of them gets the nomination, as long as it's not Edwards.

/tinfoil off