According to Nation Edwards has to win

[ProSense]

A Fierce Populism and the Soft Promise of "More Light"

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Obama's still ahead in most Iowa polls. But, as Edwards has surged in recent weeks, the Illinoisan has picked up some of his rival's populist langauge. One of Obama's last television ads has the senator declaring that, "I've spent my life working for change that's made a real difference in the lives of real people. That's why I passed up a job on Wall Street to fight joblessness and poverty on the streets of Chicago when the local steel plant closed. That's why I turned down the corporate law firms to work as a civil rights lawyer, to fight for those who've been denied opportunity."

But even in his "populist" commercial, Obama features "I brought Democrats and Republicans together" themes.

No one should doubt the power of Obama's unity appeal. He delivers it well. And, after the divisiveness of the Bush-Cheney years, there is indeed something refreshing about the prospect of a president who embraces the promise of negotiation and compromise.

"Change isn't going to come because people are hollering more, talking tough... We don't need more heat. We need more light," says Obama, clearly seeking to contrast his message with that of Edwards.

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What Edwards knows is that -- while Obama can afford to run second and perhaps even third in Iowa -- the option is not available to him. Without an Iowa win, Edwards does not have the money or the poll numbers to renew his candidacy in the New Hampshire primary that comes barely 100 hours after the caucuses finish.

So Edwards is telling Iowa Democrats that Thursday is the populist make-or-break moment. And he is promising them an epic shift in the political process if they embrace it.

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Supporters better start pumping in more money!

[no name no slogan]

1. Unfortunately for The Nation, they've got a bad track record lately

They were quite pro-Dean in 2004, and that didn't work out for them.

[whatdoyouthink]

2. I dont think it is a must win

For Him - But cant hurt (2nd would be okey) but put alot of pressure to win next or the next at least

[Yukari Yakumo]

3. Pretty much the next to last paragraph says it all.

Edwards must win Iowa. For as much money and time he has spent in Iowa, defeat would be a stake through the heart of his campaign. He's quite far behind in nearly every state besides Iowa and in fundraising. Without any kind of a momentum boost, he's toast.