CNN

It can only hurt. The Democrats need to be pushing ads of McCain and Bush hugging and kissing on each other.

Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas

That depends. If it goes another month or two, it won't have much effect. Remember, people have a short attention span.

If it goes much longer than, say, May, then they may have a problem. Keep in mind that some people are still hoping against hope for a "dream ticket".

I think that this is just something to keep the media in jobs. LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK!!!

Dear Jack,

The words, "Snatching defeat from the jaws of Victory" comes to mind. That seeming to be the case, I am certainly embarrassed. I wish one of them would discover the meaning of Humility and just bow out gracefully. Unfortunately, the only one of them with any grace [Obama], is the only one who deserves the position for which HE is applying.

Let's face it, the Clinton Pit Bulls have latched on too deeply with their rhetoric, as always, and they will drag this election year to it's disastrous, dare I say, Michael Vick-ish end.

Unless something unusual (and this is the year for it) comes up it won't affect it apppreciably. The publiciy is an advantage, the strain may be a disavantage.

Negatively.

The only thing the republicans have going for them are the democrats.
When Rader said if the democrats can win the presidency by a landslide they should quit well they shoulda, they coulda, but they won't. Too many big egos in the democrat,green,and independent parties.

We will be so bored with the rhetoric and back biting from Hillary that we really won't care anymore.
I am not an Obama fan, but at this moment he is the only viable option. At least it seems he is not trying to sell us 'the same bill of goods', but he hasn't been there that long.
I can't vote for Hillary and see another Clinton administration sell us off and there is NO WAY I could vote for anyone who gets the support of King George.

Little doubt that it will lessen the likelihood of Hillary winning in November (Obama can't win regardless). And when the head DNC people wring their hands over this, they should be reminded every time that the mindless 'egalitarian' delegate system that some nincompoops designed is the cause of the delay – if it were winner take all, Hillary would have it sewn up by now, or close to it, and she could concentrate on McCain! But, nooooo.....

If it drags out till we see Hillary's tax returns, Barack will be the nominee and we can move on.

I think the Republicans are sitting back and having a great big laugh about this. The are watching the democrats destroy each other and it gives them the stuff to use against them come November, that plus anything that has not been pulled out of the dirty politics closet. It really is time for a united democratic party, lets quit giving the Republicans a way to beat us. Time to step up.

Allowing every person in this country to vote in Presidential primaries and elections before declaring the outcome should improve our democracy. It seems to me that any party's chances of winning would be improved by standing on the principle that every citizen has the right to cast their ballot in an open election. What will hurt the Democrats is their perceived desire to count votes in as few states as possible–Florida and Michigan come to mind.

Hey, Jack,
No effect at all. The Democrats will develop their own pincer movement. Whichever one is soft on McCain will lose the election.

jack it would not hurt them one bit. the democrats have the best weapon on there side . mccaine and his love for the bush family
with that on the side of the democrates even mickey mouse coulld beat macaine and his scare campaine

Poor Jack!!!

You lost! We won. You and the "pundits" in Washington wanted to silence the dems in OH, TX, and RI; but they spoke loud and clear–Hillary for President. What ever you and your friends from Washington say, Hillary will remain and will continue to fight for us. Extending the battle will definately sharpen Hillary (if not Obama) to take the WH in November. Don't worry.

There is a saying that those who live in glass houses should not throw stones, with all the worms the Clintons have under their rug I hope they are ready for a negative campaign should O bama choose to go that way.

Jack
I have said all along it doesnt make any difference if the Democrats go down to the wire. John McCain will not be the next president, George W. Bush has sealed his fate by doing such a wonderful job during the last 7 plus years. Whether its Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama one of them will be the next president.

The biggest difference between Hillary/McCain and Obama is that Hillary/McCain are running for the role of Commander-in-Chief and Obama is running for the role of President of the United States, so he can help bring about "CHANGE" and help the U.S. will all of our domestic issues that we have here – Ecomony, Mortage Crisis, Kids not being able to compete with kids in India/China, etc.

Jack; Obama keeps saying he has won the popular vote. I agree he has more delegates and that is what counts, but what are the actual totals for each candidate in real votes?

Jack, the extension of the democratic nominee will be like an all-out brawl between Obama and Hillary, leaving the nominee battered and bruised going into Denver from the other while Mccain is walking through bruise-free into Minnesota. It may or may not be an advantage for the republicans, but it will take a long time for democrats to choose their nominee and for people to decide whether they would vote for them or not in which you can just look at one person in Mccain for the GOP.

Hey Jack,

I don't think it hurts the Dems at all if anything McCain will have a tough time swinging at both and it'll keep the "Republicans" off balance. The inevitablity of Barack's mandate of the folks who want change is that if he doesn't win the nomination he will be forced to run as an independent. Which frankly at this point is looking more and more like a reality. I don't see another alternative for cause Hillary is likely to go down fighting on the deck of the Titanic.

Bill H. Long Island Republican

Terribly!

Only my party could snatch away defeat from the jaws of victory. Hillary and her supporters need a math book thrown at them to realize that she can't win.

Math is key to universe and also the hope that my party finally get's with it. It's time for Gore, Edwards, Richardson and other party leaders to step up and make their choices known.

The only 3 A.M. call Hillary ever recv'd was from the Washington Intern's house mother when she called to ask someone to come pick Bill up.

This is the most interesting, worst and ridiculous process I have ever seen in my 63 years... bd

The prolonged battle might actually be good for Democratic chances in November. If media attention continues to follow Obama and Clinton, where does that leave McCain? He's essentially "disappeared." Who's he going to debate? Himself? Who's he going to spend his attack ad money on? Will he have the energy to run the typical Republican smear campaign against both of them? It should be interesting.

The more that Hillary Clinton and Barack Hussein Obama air each others dirty laundry in public, the better the chances are for John McCain.

Hillary Clinton and Barack Hussein Obama are giving John McCain and the RNC lots of rocks to throw at them during the general election.

It is going to cause some significant concerns to the Democrat party and could mean the difference in McCain winning the presidency. No matter how you cut the pie, you cannot change the math. The fixed number of registered voters, those voters who will cross over and the voting indicators among ethincs groups are almost impossible to change in a meaninful way. Obama will almost certainly end up with the delegate lead as a results of his victories in February and this is not good news for Hillary Clinton. Hillary would then have to convince the uncommitted superdelegates to reverse the will of the people. Even after coming off a big Hillary winning streak, few of the superdelegates will be inclined to do so. For the superdelegates to ignore what the voters have decided might would be suicidal. Hillary only hope of winning a majority of these delegates is to overtake Obama's elected delegate lead by winning the bulk of the remaining superdelegates, and I think will not materialize.

I think Hillary has the right to continue just like Huckabee but she cannot continue to run a very "NEGATIVE" campaign because not only is it turning off voters like myself who would have voted for her if she ended up being the nominee, but I know atleast 10 people who have told me that they would not vote if she was the nominee. Yes, everyone is talking about a "Dream Ticket" and it definitely could be but not with all of the negative ads and comments that are not necessary to run for President of the United States.

The longer it goes, the uglier it will get and especially from Mrs. Clinton and her war machine. This will drive people away from the Democrats. And once again, if HRC gets the nomination, many will vote for McCain, including me. If she was the only person on the ballot, I wouldn't vote. Maybe Obama should jump to a new party and call it Unite America.

None, Jack! McCain can't win! It's as simple as that! The Far Right Hate him. And he is following in the footsteps of the great "Decider"! There is not a snow balls chance in San Antonio of McCain winning in November! Bush has seen to that!

Jack, it probably won't affect things much at all, at least not in terms of the real impact it will have on the Democrat's chances in November. It's going to be good for CNN's Best Political Team on Television and for media outlets' bottom lines in places like Pennslvania, but it's not going to tear apart the Democratic party. Remember, it wasn't too many years ago that the primary campaign always went to the convention to be decided – and it worked. In fact, it worked so well at healing campaign wounds that it yieded a Kennedy-Johnson ticket after a divisive primary campaign.

I am a Obama supporter. in the days leading up to the election Obama
took alot of attacks. The things she attacked him with was nothing compared to all the mess of the Clinton years in and out of the White House, such as the question of the tax returns. She tried to tie him in the middle East when Bill is in with the Sheik of Dubai and that's why they won't release the taxs return because that will tell the story. This could enfluence her once she gets into the Whitehouse.

It will only give Sen. Clinton a prolonged chance to mount vicious negative attacks against Sen. Obama knowning that much of the media will go along uncritically. Republicans are waiting for more Obama "dirts" from the Clintons who are so happy to oblige. The Clintons clearly don't care if Democrats lose in November so long as Hillary is not the nominee. According to news report, about 25% of Clinton supporters are already hinting they will vote for John McCain if Hillary does not get the nomination.

It will keep them engaged and excited about their vote and the job that they have to do in November. This year Democrats will know more and understand more issues and hopefully ask more questions then they ever have before. But in the end, the democrats will win the WHITE HOUSE!!

Poorly.

Republicans play to win at all costs and Democrats are artful at ripping Defeat from the jaws of Victory. Polls have shown all along that Senator Clinton was the candidate that Republicans can defeat; so of course Democrats with the help of Ann Coulter, Rush Limpbough, and others are working over time to have her be the candidate.

I am torn on this matter because I do believe that voters across the country should have their say. I'm from Indiana and my vote rarely counts in a Primary so I'm excited to cast my vote for Obama. But let's not forget that the trajectory of the Clinton campaign is going to get increasingly negative because that's all she's got left and therefore Obama will have to constantly defend his positions and hopefully make her answer questions about her record as well. This is all very good news for John McCain because he doesn't have to spend a dime to dig up dirt on his opponents because they are doing it for him.

Well it definitely keeps attention on the Democrats- that's always good. Alternatively, I think if they stoppped this now and made Hillary were the nominee and Obama were the VP, they would be unstoppable. She would get all the big states, he would get the smaller ones. They wouldn't just win in November, they would win by a landslide. Then 8 years later, when Obama has gotten the experience he needs, he could run for President and Democrats would control the White House for 16 years. Wouldn't that be great! So that's something they should take into consideration.

Well Jack,

As we all know, no other group can throw away an election like the democrats can. The prolonged battle will divide the party among class, race, gender and age lines, no doubt. And, if Sen. Clinton continues to go negative, the dems stand a chance on losing a major part of it's base, the black vote.

Jack extending this campaign could destroy their chances in November if it continues to degenerate into a mud slinging mutually assured destruction fest. With the resiliance and toughness Mrs. Clinton's campaign exhibited last night, and the hope and new blood the Obama campaign has brought to the party I'm beginning to think these two should come together and form a single ticket. With a little patience on Mr. Obama's part they could be campaigning for a 16 year democratic term in the white house instead of a four year term.

How will extending the battle for the nomination affect the Democrats’ chances in November?

Originally, I was for Hillary. When Hillary's campaign played the race card after South Carolina, I started favoring Barack. Now she has used the gender card and the kitchen sink strategy. It is becoming quite apparent to me, that she will use any method to win. I cannot trust someone like that, anywhere on the ticket.
I
f she is on the ticket, in any form, I will vote republican for the first time, since 1980, IF the surge is still working. If not, then I guess I'll write in your name or not vote at all.

As long as Hillary hangs around, it will hurt the democratic party, for no other reason than a whole NEW generation of voters get to see her in action. For them, she has NOT been vetted. She wants to bring up stuff on Obama, then just remember that Whitewater, et al, will be new for almost anyone under the age of 35.

Harry
Carlisle, Ky.

Where are the Tax Returns for Hillary Clinton???? I just love how the news folks (CNN and MSNBC) who just dropped that issue to raise ratings by her negative and kitchen sink mentality.

What middle class person do you know can write a $5 million dollar check to themselves for their campaign and not know if it will be a good ROI.

I doubt if the democratic nominating process will hurt the candidates in November. Why not just let the system work as it was designed?
Are we so impatient that we should just let New Hampshire and Iowa decide the nominees every four years?

Jack,
This clear! The longer the Clinton attack machine goes on, the smaller the chaces to even have a united party! not even winning in november! and we all know that the talking heads, except you, LOVE AND CHEER for Clinton, it is disgusting! Why "the best political team on television" is not asking questions about the tax returns, or about the clinton's foundraiser Norman Shu, or the documents from the White House to check about her experience??? SHAME ON YOUR NETWORK!!! the Clinton News Network!!!!

Did any one add up the numbers for the election yesterday? Where were all the republicans? Did they vote for Hillary because they have the scoop on Bill? By the way, love you and your comments. Keep them coming. MJ

Jack: The ultimate Dream ticket for the Dem's has already been picked.Clinton and Obama will be that ticket. They will continue to pretend to be fighting it out but only to raise more money. In the end, I think Hillary will take the number one spot, Obama VP.

It won't. It just gives the voters more time to find out how inexperienced Obama is.

I'm guessing that the super delegates will wait to see which candidate gets the popular vote and will back that candidate. If they go against the popular choice, they would risk putting their party in a civil war. Since this battle is being dragged out, it is becoming more and more likely of there being a Obama-Clinton or Clinton-Obama ticket. It might be necessary just to reunite the party.

Jack,

Yesterday before the big "Super Tuesday" primaries, CNN was reporting that Obama had a lead of 109 total delegates, now he has 96. So what's all the fuss about? That mean's Hillary after all the states she won last night only gained 13 delegates! And they still haven't fully tallied the Texas caucuses, which is currently showing an Abama lead. I don't think that could be called a victory in anybody's book, even by Hillary's movable standards.

I don't think extending this battle will hurt the Democrats' chances much unless this race becomes more bitter between the two. Clinton and Obama will stay in the media limelight and continue to get press coverage as long as the race is close. However, I think that a prolonged battle hurts Obama more because we have seen polls that show that a quarter of Clinton's supporters would not support him if he is the nominee, and that number would go up in a bitter battle between the two.

Jack,
Hillary Clinton knows that she is not going to get the nommination. What she is doing now is to destroy Obama then she can run against McCain in 2012. They did it to Gore and Kerry...
How do you trust a candidate who agreed to disqualify Michigan and Florida and now she wants them in! Remember, she voted for the war and now she is against it! There never going to be the so-called "dream ticket". Obama will not going to pick her.

Chantilly, Virginia

Not Much, Jack. People are sick Of the republican's shenanigans, so it won't make a damn bit of difference how long the dems fight for the Nomination. The republicans are the reason America's economy and Morale are in the sorry state they're in, and as long as that's true the Dems could extend the Nominataion battle indefinitely and it still wouldn't matter.

Mike, From Staten Island, New York

I think that the American public needs to take this election back from the media who created this mess in Texas and Ohio and call the Super delegates in their home state to demand they support the majority of their states vote. Someone has to be mature about this and while it's apparent that isn't going to be Clinton or the media (who are enjoying the melee) perhaps our Democratic Leaders will step up to the plate and do the right thing or the Super Delegates will listen to their voters.

Jack, although I don't like GW Bush, the one thing I have to give him credit for is that he was able to unite the Republican party. He was able to do it because he was relate to both factions in his party- both the fiscal and Christian conservatives. Democrats don't have a candidate that is able to relate to both its factions: the base (blue collar/ service workers) and the periphery of the party (upper middle class, college educated voters). However, we have 2 candidates who overwhelmingly relate to both. If we have them both on the same ticket, they would be unstoppable. They need to stop this now and work together. We can take back the White House and put this country back on the right track.

Well, Jack unfortunately the Democrats are gonna lose the Presidency because of the toilet bowl not kitchen sink tactics that are being used now. It is pathetic how Billary Clinton doesnt give a damn about mocking Barack's positive message or acting aloof when answering the question on whether or not he was a Christian. I really thought that Hillary was smart enough to run a positive campaign which highlighted her qualifications instead of using Republican attack antics in an attempt to destroy Barack's character. She may have come out on top in Ohio and Texas but her underhanded tactics are making many Democrats say if she gets the nomination we just won't vote in November.

it will strengthen the fight of the american people to take the white house back. we have two fantastic peolpe running while the republicans had no choice. john mccain is his own worst enemy when he talks and acts like george w.. he will open his mouth and let another bomb, bomb, bomb iran joke, causing the whole country to realize the insanity of mccain and the resemblance to bush.

Since Senator Clinton seems intent on projecting her own flaws onto Senator Obama whenever she can, I can only hope that Democrats in the next states will reject this wholeheartedly. Senator Clinton is helping Senator McCain in every way she can, as Rush Limbaugh clearly showed us yesterday. In the end, it is up to us to decide if we want to go back with Senator Clinton to the division of the 1990's or we want to go forward into a bright new day.

The most profound impact it will have the longer this battle continues is the free ammunition for John McCain. Its entirely plausible that Hillary Clinton did so well because she went negative against Obama, which means she is likely to keep up her attacks saying whatever is necessary to win by even suggesting things like John McCain is more qualified and experienced to be president. Despite all this she may very well still lose the nomination and as a result leave the Democratic Party in a far worse position than was necessary in a general election campaign. I don't expect Hillary Clinton to give up what she sees as her birthright anytime soon though. It must be pried from her cold dead fingers, no matter who pays the price.

This Democratic primary needs to end now, for the good of the party. The superdelegates need to show leadership for either candidate, and move forward.

The amount of devisiveness occuring as a result of the bitterly contested states, is only helping the Republican nominee John McCain.

The idea that the eventual nominee can bring the democratic party back together after this devisive primary is now in question. People literally depise the other candidate, which will provoke them to consider other "alternatives" in the general election. Even a "dream ticket" cannot repair the damage that has been done.

I for one am considering a 3rd party candidate or not voting at all. Democrats can nolonger count on my campaigning, my money, or my vote.

The only affect as far as I can see is that we will have enough time to ensure that the proper nominee respresents us-that person being Hillary Clinton, of course.

Mary

Jack,
Senator Obama's support comes, in majority, from where the Democrats don't have a chance in hell to win in November. This, by itself, discounts the value of his delegates unless he gets the pure majority to win on his own. Let the race continue and see who gets the nod.
Burt

Extending this race will hurt the Democrats in November, especially with Clinton helping out the Republicans by trying to destroy Obama. This is a train wreck waiting to happen. Obama should under no circumstances even condiser being on the same ticket with her, it will totally destroy his creditiblity. It is a shame that she is so pathetic that if she can't win, she doesn't want anyone else to win. Way to support your party, Hilliary!

Jack,
Now that Obama has answered Hillarys question, its time for her to answer a few:
1. Where are your Tax Returns?
2. Where are your White House Files,proving your accomplishments?
3. Explain your Involvment in Clinton Administration Scandals?
These are Legitimate Questions for her,we want answers ...
Hillarys "How dare you ask me that" attitude is wearing thin fast...
How dare she lead people by the nose and not answer questions..
The Clintons manipulation & antics make Nixon look like a school boy.. I Hope if she Debates McCain he asked these questions of her..
Hillary either explains it Now or Later, with McCain

Patty from Bay City,Michigan

A prolonged battle will effectively destroy the Democratic party, especially if Clinton wins the nomination. Clinton seems to be under the assumption that Obama's backers will be her backers in the general election. She is dead wrong. The votes she is getting now are the only votes she will get in November, give or take a few hundred. If you add the Republican votes together with the current Obama backers that would vote against her in November (if they even vote), McCain wins in a landslide taking the competing House and Senate seats with him.
Then again, maybe she is trying to bring down the party. Sort of Bill's and Hillary's payback - if they can't win, noboby will. Sounds familar, doesn't it.

Dear Jack,

To start your question is one that should not even be asked. For the past few weeks, the media has constantly been asking when Hillary would call it quits. Very democratic. TX, OH, RI, VT, PA, WY, MS , etc had not even voted. Then, last night, Hillary took: TX, OH, and RI. (3 out of 4)

Allowing every state to vote will not hurt the party. If nothing else, it will be a great "training" opportunity for Obama. So far, he has been on a cake walk. If he becomes the norminee, he better tighten his seat belt as the road to the white house will be bumpy. Also, the republicans will make sure there are many deep pot holes.

In closing, I have a question for you Jack. The Rezko trial will go on for several weeks. If Obama's long term,19 years, relationship with Rezko results in something that would force Obama to quit, then who would be the norminee if Hillary would quit? This is a real possibility.

Phyllis
Media, PA

Regarding your thought about things getting ugly, consider the Texas caucuses taking, as usual, forever to count:

There has always been a degree of hanky-panky with Texas precinct caucuses paperwork. I know because I spent years involved with that process here in San Antonio. I know what goes on down here. That said, I'm sure that a grassroots movement like Barack's DID turn out the majority participation at caucuses.

I'm equally sure that some Clinton precinct and county chairs have submitted paperwork for caucuses that did not in fact occur–or, more often, "packed" the delegate lists to the county and state senatorial district conventions with the names of voters who weren't at the precinct caucus, but can be relied on to support the preferred candidate of the party apparat.

In case y'all haven't noticed, Hillary IS the establishment candidate and beneficiary of all the cheap tricks it can deploy.

I don't think it should matter how long the democrats battle for the domination of their party. Senator Mccain wants to keep our troops in Iraq for many years. The economy is in shambles. If the democrats cannot win on just them two issues alone than I don't hold much hope of them ever winning another presidential election.

Jack: Extending the battle for the Dem nomination could hurt the party if it turns into a fight at the convention for delegates. It would most likely polarize voters who could become angry and vote for John McCain.

jack, may i rephrase the question?

How will nominating hillary affect the Democrats’ chances in November?

if obama ends up being the nominee, the democrats still have a very good chance in november. however, with hillary who is proud of her "similarities" with mccain the republicans will have the last laugh.

least i forget, jack, you are the best!!!

The American People will be represented with the best choice because the democrats took their time in choosing their candidate. What's the rush? Let the process take it's course. This is the highest job in the land. Both candidates have their positives and negatives, however when it comes down to it, I would want the experience that Hillary Clinton brings to the job. She has proven already that she can reach across the aisle and get things accomplished. Oh, and please don't tell the press this, but she has already said that she would choose people from both parties for her cabinet. Oh, my what an experience and CHANGE that would be.

IT depends on what type of race the clinton camp runs. If they get in the mud and do the republicans job for them the i feel she is just trying to ensure if obama wins he loses in the fall. Its either a 2012
strategy or a whats good for the party in 2008 strategy.
aundria Boston,Ma

It won't hurt the Democrats chances at all....with all the coverage they get, and all the mistakes the Republicans will continue to make, is there even a need for an election? I say let the Republicans go on a 4 year holiday, and just have a run between Clinton and Obama for President!

i don't know what is left to prove for either one of these candidates. as far as i'm concerned, the people have spoken. barack is going to have the lead, hillary will be a close second. if they continue to fight eachother, what can be gained? they need to come together and form the super-ticket that everyone wants and stop doing mccain's work for him.

The longer it runs the more divided the party becomes. If one or the other were to step down now, the party would have more time to meld behind the candidate and have a good showing in the fall. This way they are still "fighting" to the convention, besiding a candidate, and then trying to rally behind the chosen one to go against John McCain, with still "open wounds" from the convention. The more time to heal the better, it'll provide a good showing in the fall when the party should be focused on the prize and not internal problems.

Jack,
I know that you are anti-Hillary, but you can't deny the fact that America as well as myself, loves her....
I just want you to know that I am proud of my country America, today as I have always been in my 61 years as a born resident..
I would like for you to ask Michele Obama if she is still proud of her country America today as she was after super tuesday one....
You need to show a little more objectivity in your situation room time comments rather than showing bias....

The Clinton's are now showing their true colors, and the Dems are going to follow blindly and give the Republican's the White House for at least four more years. Like they always say, the Democrats are going to once again snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory.

The longer the battle goes on for the Democratic nominee the chances grow slimmer for winning in November. Here's why.
The Clinton's are ruthless politicans and will no doubt win the nomination (yes I said Clintons) due to the backroom promises, paybacks, and dirty, smear type politics that have and will take place. It's kind of like beating a dog into submission.This will bruise up the Obama supporters to the point of them either NOT voting in November or switching to McCain. Remember, Obama carries many independents. It's going to be a tough road to hoe. This will only lead to 8 more years of dissention in Congress no matter who wins.

In answer to your question. I think the Democrats should not be rushed into finding one candidate to run for President. This two way race will keep them in the lens of all news media and the Republican will have a hard time trying to get noticed.
Besides, it should be obvious to all that the Republicans will not gain the Hight House, no matter who they have chosen and how much lead time they have ahead of the vote for Presidency because everyone in the US and the World is fed up with Republican Policies and lies, and underhanded and almost criminal activities and they will not win even if McCain chooses the Pope as his VP, and I for one is thankful for that. It is time for a change and a new US to be created out of the mess that Bush has put it in. Mike

Jack,

Your thoughts (She can not catch up) are wrong if you include Michigan and Florida (Vote should be re-done).

She has won all the states that matter. Obama has won most of the states which will vote republican anyway.

Obama would still be strong against McCain who will run as Bush 3.

Hillary's gutter politics have hurt only her own chances of winning in November. If she is the nominated many Obama supporters including myself will be voting third party or not at all.

Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton...where's the change?

I think the only way a prolonged Democratic race hurts the party's chances of winning in November is if things continue to go down the negative road the Clinton campaign has been heading down lately. Sen. Obama can only take the high road for so long before he has to start returning fire to fend off Sen. Clinton's attacks on his character. If that happens I believe it's going to have a two tier negative effect. The first: it will begin to drive democratic voters away. The reason voters have been so involved in the election process this year is they're sick of politics as usual. If this race turns into your typical mudslinging, politics at it's worst kind of election, I'm sure the voters will become disillusioned and stop coming out in such large numbers. The second: it will merely give John McCain extra ammunition to fight off the eventual nominee come time for the general election. You've already seen him use Sen. Clinton's "red phone" campaign to his advantage. That will just continue, the more the two democrats keep attacking each other. I was truly hoping to see a big win for Obama last night that would have all but ended Sen. Clinton's campaign, but if this race is going to continue on for the coming months, I at least hope it returns to a more civil and dignified race than what we've seen in the past few weeks. If it doesn't, I'm afraid the democratic party will end up too divided to win in the general election.

Hillary says the Democratic Party needs to unite and show solidarity but her "temper tantrum" last week of throwing the kitchen sink does exactly opposite. Hillary wants solidarity ONLY IF SHE WINS! Now she is walking around gloating over her wins which actually are in name only because when you count delegates AND overall people votes, Obama is ahead in both not to mention the fact that she has won 14 STATES to Obama's 25 STATES. So, obviously Ms. Clinton uses that "fuzzy math". Can't wait to see her tax return.

Jack,
With Clinton constantly on the attack it will make McCain's job easier. Just look at the republican turnout last night. More and more people are starting to vote republican then have previously. So instead of working together, like the democrats claim they are willing to do, they are pulling the party apart and making it easier for McCain to win.

The longer it goes on, the better for McCain. He can take potshots from the sidelines while these two are battling each other.

I think it helps the Dems' McCain and the Republicans get second page news while the Dems will keep getting front page.

I don't think the prolonged primary season will hurt the Democrats in November. John McCain is not a worthy opponent for either candidate. What I want to know is why is Hillary hiding her tax filings from 2006 and 2007? Also what exactly did she do to gain so much experience as 1st lady. Watch Bill go after every woman within reach? I need specifics on her experience outside the Senate.

Hillary needs to drop out!! The democrat party will be destroyed. The dirty tricks Hillary is playing and being rewarded only condones the dirtiness that the republicans did to Bill Clinton during his presidency.
This is not just fighting, this is knife, gun, cheating fighting when people and groups of people get hurt beyond repair.
Hillary's not boxing on her own strength, but in creating a smoke screen, distracting the referee(media-"your picking on me"), putting chemicals on her gloves(Nafta, Canada, Roscoe) and then fighting. Barach is going to have no choice but to be dirty for good can prevail.

Regarding the Photo Of the President, Mrs. and Mr. McCain, YOU CAN TELL WHO THEY ARE BY THE COMPANY THEY KEEP. It is impossible for Mr. McCain to divorce himself from the President now.

This win for Hillary as you call it is a wonderful thing for the Republican party. As long as there are two candidates in the democratic race the party can not come together and the longer it is divided the better off McCain and company are.

Now McCain can concentrate on the issues and the general election while Obama and Hillary sling mud at each other all the way to the convention dividing the democratic party farther and farther apart.

Well Jack ,
This is the best thing that has happen to politics in some time.
For years we have let you guys tell us who we should support and who we shouldn't. Instead of reporting the news many in the media think there the news. Let this go to the convention, don't let Independents decide who the nominee of a party should be, after all they can't decide which party to belong to.
Let Fla. & Mi. vote but just Democrates, Let us Democrates make the choice.
J A fron Ma.
P.S. get Tony Harris on Situation Room he gives an honest oppinion.

The Clinton mud slinging will be what will make it difficult for the Democrats against the Republicans. Everyone knows that Hill and Bill are proven liars and are just as corrupt as Bush and the boys. They will do everything they can to make Obama look as dirty as they are with their dirty politics and careless handling of the truth. It is a shame that this power hungry pair will do anything to achieve their own goals at the expense of the American people they claim to respect and care for. If Hillary ends up being the nominee, watch how quickly the crowds disappear for the Democrats at election time.

First of all it may help bunches, look at all the free media coverage.
Secondly, the Democrats could show America that the bought election of 2000 was a fluke.
Between the electoral college, super delegates, states not counting,media, courts, as an American I feel like my voting does not really matter. Other folks can mess with the system to get what they want, citizens be damned.
Melvin
Colorado

Jack,

You would love to see Sen. Clinton out of the race!!!

But, she won!!
Doesn't matter right now if she behind your buddy Obama.
Pres. Clinton did not get his nomination until June. She has all the right to be in the race despite the narrow mind of "jornalists" like you.

(would be rain in Spain without you!!!!)

How will extending the battle for the nomination affect the Democrats’ chances in November?
Jack, I believe Clinton is the harbinger of bad news for the Democratic party because she has already stooped to political assasination as her chosen method to win over Obama - signalling she will do anything to gain her objective. Clinnton's methods smack of "Washington back-room politics" that I am against. Hypocritical in her comments about words are just words, she has no compunction in using attacking words to tear down Obama while claiming "Foul!" when he replies in kind. It's disappointing that Clinton apparently thinks the Ameican voter is of such low intelligence that she can "fool most of the people most of the time." The Republicans are dancing with glee that Clinton is willing to supply the back-stabbing messages she persists in using - politics as usual - because they can then use these same messages against her or Obama from now until November - after all, if Clinton can use attack-dog methods it validates the Republicans using them too. At least Obama has been trying to run an honest, decent and forthright campaign. Good for him! James Curran, Mt Pleasant, SC

Jack,
If Hillary Clinton continues on her "kitchen sink" strategy, she will burn any bridges that have been built not only with Republicans and Independents, but lots of Democrats as well. Her campaign either fails to recognize, or simply doesn't care, that they have consistently disenfranchised people who already voted for her in previous primaries. Not the best strategy if you ask me, especially since she is far from spotless herself.

If she decides to run a positive campaign on the issues then there will be no effect in November. She will be able to get most of the Democratic vote as well as Republican and Independents. Unfortunately, this is an unlikely scenario considering what we've seen in the past two weeks.

It's looking pretty ugly out here Jack. At least we've got you–no one else in the mainstream media seems to give a darn what us ordinary folks are thinking. Last night was a disgusting display of the media falling for Hillary's faulty logic and lousy math. If the talking heads would ever get out and talk to some actual VOTERS instead of the parade of pundits, then maybe they wouldn't go on the air and make fools of themselves by demonstrating that they are totally clueless as to why any of us vote the way we do.

Barbara
Palm Harbor, FL

Jack,

I feel there was no winners in tuesdays campaign, only losers, that being the United States citizens. These idiots don't give a dam about the middle class people. They speak from the side of there mouths. They will say anything that will get them elected. I feel it's just another 4 years of the same old crap. The Democraps are cowards,the Repuckitans are all Bush wana be's. These idiots all have there own hidden agenda. In my opion there is absolutely no one worth voting for. I really believe our country is on a major downhill slide for at least the next 5 years.

Carl D.

Oh I forgot to add I live in Charlotte North Carolina. But I was born in Kansas City Missouri "the Show Me" state. Hillary is going to need to show me her tax returns and show me her 1st lady activities before she impesses me with her experience. Barack is going to have to take off the gloves. This woman is not going away without and alley fight because that's the way she has survived being chained to Bill..Let the fight begin.

pLEASE REMEMBER THE ELECTORAL COLLEGGE WHICH BUSH WON ALTHOUGH GORE HAD MORE POPULAR VOES. HILARY HAS WON WITH GOOD PEVENTAGES IN THE BIG STATES WHICH ARE MOSTLY BLUE OR ON A NEAR MARGIN WITH RED. hilary should win these blue states against mccain just as she has done in the primary. Counting their electrol college delagates they are more than obamas who has won many democratic primaries in basically red states that probably go fr mccain in the general elecion. His electroal colle count is less. Thus he many have more plefged primary delagate than hilary, but he has a high change of losing to mccain while hilary has the blue states where she can win on electrol college delagates. also here popular vote would probably exceed mccain.

I believe this considered will influence the super delagates rather than a small difference in primary delagates. I am not sure if the public is aare of this constitutional consideration vils a vis O and H

Jack,
With the warring Democratic Party, my husband felt a need to arm himself as a defensive strategy. So he ate a can of beans,some egg salad, and drank 2 beers.
Then he came to the realization, that he had to go to work,and put on a biohazard suit, and would ultimately offend himself.
As the Democratic party member is throwing "stink bombs",the Republican party is using it to their advantage by developing a platform of civility and unity.Is Hillary Clinton asleep at the wheel or does she have more "stink bombs" in her purse?
Is her motivations truly for the Democratic Party at this point or just engaged by the lust for power? I am tired of Hillary Clinton respresenting the Democratic party with the Republican agenda of Karl Rove politics. At this point my question would be is Clinton a Democrat or Republican? She really has blurred the lines for me,and maybe by design as a deliberate attempt on her part to win Republican votes as well.I see some strategy at play here. I bet the political analysts and linguistics are having a cerebral day over this one.
Chances of securing a Democratic nomination with a prolonged race only provides the Republican party with more ammunition.
God Bless

It depends on how the campaigns fight each other. A little bit of negativity in March can immunize a candidate to those same attacks in October. Much like the personal revelations in Obama's book kept many of his indiscretions from becoming important during the campaign, since it was "old news".

However if either of them go too far below the belt to try seal the nomination it could leave the winner in a broken state heading to the general election.

The longer the better. Hillary is winning all the key blue and swing states. Obama is winning "red states" where there are fewer Democrats than honest members of Congress. The longer the process goes the better chance the party will pick the candidate who might win the White House without the help of Ross Perot.

The democratic party will be fine because there is no party with-out people and people want this to continue. There are 2 different candidates that are very popular, Hillary may not have gotten closer to the delegate lead , but I am not a delegate I am an American, we may have to start looking at the popular vote aswell as the delegate count for this election. I do believe that Hillary made some great progress last night and another state goes by where everyone had put her in the dirt and she and her supporters said , NO. LEt this play out.

Telling one candidate who just had three real victories to drop out is ridiculous and divisive! Saying the female candidate doesn't have a chance in acquiring the needed delegates while in reality the male has the same non existent chance disenfranchises a great part of the party! Look at the number of Republicans who came out to vote for McCain versus the Democratic numbers. If Obama and Clinton can focus their attacks on McCain and let the voters decide who is best to represent the party, then no problem. Somehow we need to revisit Michigan and Florida in a makeup primary to get the numbers needed!

It can only mean that you will see more of them (Barak & Hillary) on Saturday Night Live, The Daily Show, Leno & Letterman in the near future.

Help me out, Jack. Am I just suffering from Obamamania or were lots of the paindits and pols saying that if Hillary didn't pick up significantly in the delegate count, she should pack it in? If my memory is correct, then why isn't that the big story today? As you said in your blog, she really didn't put much of a dent in Barack's delegate advantage.

Saranac Lake, NY

Jack,

As long as it doesn't get too negative, it's actually good for the Democratic Party. Unfortunately, one of the candidates is Hillary Clinton and going negative is the only game she knows. If the superdelegates steal this from Obama, the party will be permanently ruined.

Mike
Tucker, GA

This does nothing but make the Dem's stronger. They are bringing out more people and they will continue to let there supporters be heard. IT will remain fresh on there minds and keep them in the media. I think that the Clinton Camp really showed that "you" the media can never count her out, it has been done a few times and the deal never closes. This only shows how big of a fighter she really is....!

Hillary CANNOT BEAT MCCAIN!- to think one state in this country -OHIO- PICKS THE PRESIDENT IS RIDICULOUS!!!!!!!!! DANA IN FT.MYERS

Excuse me? No wonder states want to change primary dates because after "x" date, no one's vote counts! Right now, two viable, great candidates will go to the convention where one will be chosen to be the Presidential contender, not anointed by the media. How sad it must have been for certain members of the media last night that Clinton didn't just throw up her hands and say, "I quit." Please someone send a crying towel to those guys who clearly hate Clinton.

If the GOP thinks it's going to win in 2008, think again. After seven years of divisive, self-serving, destructive rule by "W," McCain wants to give us four more years of the same.

I can't wait until November to vote AGAINST the GOP; I don't care who wins the Democratic nomination, be it Obama, be it Clinton, or be it both on the same ticket. Surely, either one can't do worse than "W."

Jack,
Can you dig it, a good long fight over a few more months will only enhance the support for both Clinton and Obama. Plus it will help to keep you guys in the media focused on them and the issues they want you too. However the the most important thing that will occur from a longer battle for the party's nomination will be less free media air time for John McCain. It's a win win situation for the dream team's chances in November...

C.I., New York

I feel the same way about Hillary's wins last night as when that darn groundhog sees it's shadow. six or more weeks of misery in our future.

If a prolonged battle means more of the Clinton 'kitchen sink' attack machine, the Republican party can look forward to following the yellow brick road straight to 4 more years in the White House. The fact that dirty politics and the politics of fear worked so well on voters in Ohio and Texas is truly disheartening. It was one thing when, in 2000 and 2004, the finger could be pointed at the Republican party. However, this time it's coming from within, and more and more people that I speak with are disgusted with the Democratic party and willing to vote for McCain or even Ralph Nader on principle if dirty tricks succeed in getting Sen. Clinton the power that she so hungrily seeks. When Karl Rove is looking better than you on ethics, something is seriously wrong.

IF...big IF...they would concentrate their attacks on McCain and the Republicans, it could help. Two against one kind of a thing. If they attack each other, it hurts. Which do you think will happen, Jack.

Al, Lawrence KS

I think that this is good for the Democrats .This is giving all the United States a chance to vote and it really is making a statement. Voting is our right and having each and every vote counts is what This country was built on even the two states that was banned should have their votes counted . Everyone should have a chance to vote if they feel the need to and it be counted .

Go Democrats in 08!!!!!!!!!

If Obama had lost 11 contest in a row I think he would have been showen the door, after all her wining and complaining, about the special treatment of Obama by the media, she's the one getting the free ride from the democratic party. The Clintons are dirty players, and after years of dirty deals, I'm sure she has a few super delegates in the pocket of pantsuit.

I don't know how it will affect the Democrats chances, but it will certainly give Jack a few more months of juicy remarks about Hillary. Every time he does this I can almost see him licking in lips in joyful glee. Jack its time to give the public a FAIR analysis, not your own personal viewpoint.

Ann Esposito
Spring Hill, FL

The facts are obvious and as follows

1. Obama won several caucus states many of which most probably vote Rebublican in the General Election.
2. Many of these caucuses/primaries won by Obama were open to Independents and Rebublicans . While part of the independents voted for Obama out of their preference it cannot be denied that there was intentional voting against Hillary Clinton by both Independents & Republicans based on irrational dislike of her. It is well possible that all these folks will vote Rebublican come the General Election.
3. Hillary Clinton has won all the big states that do matter for Democrats in the General elections except for Illinois (Barack's home state) and Georgia. Of these Georgia will probably go for Republicans in the general election.
4. Hillary has demonstrated that she can win the swing state of Ohio which is a must if Democrats want to win in the General Election. It is now evident between her and Barack, Hillary is more likely to carry the State of Ohio for the democrats.
5. The results from Texas and Ohio Primaries have also destroyed the perception that Obama always carries the majority of White votes. Hillary
has shown that she can also win the majority of White votes in the General Election.
6. Primaries have happened in both Michigan and Florida. Though as of now there are lingering doubts about seating these delegates for voting,
the preference of voters in the two states has been shown to be overwhelmingly in Hillary's favor. The argument that there was no primary campaign in these states by the Democratic contenders
(and therfore the results are not truly indicative of voter preference) does not wash. In this age of mass and instant media coverage the voters in these two states were well aware of what the candidates stood for.
7. Now Hilllary is better poised to win the important state of Pensylvania and other states such as West Virginia, Indiana and Kentucky.
8. From another angle it can be seen by an impartial observer that Hillary has been consistently passionate about vital issues of paramount concern to middle and lower income people especially children -not to day or yesterday but jstarting after her law school graduation, much before marrying Bill Clinton and launching into active politics. Since entering politics she has consistently worked and legislated for achieving her laudable goals.
9. Further her toughness has time and again been demonstrated by her weathering of the vigorous attacks. at times most vicious /venemous onslughts by her opponents successfully for the past 15 years. She is no soft cookie and her qualities must come in handy to be an able commander-in-chief.
10. In a situation such is faced by the Democratic Party now the so called institution of 'Super delegates' must excercise their judgement fairly and prudently to select the candidate for the Presidency. Wiining the contest for the party must be the overriding concern and nothing else.
11. Lastly for all of us concerned about family values-Hillary is a shining example of that person who kept her family intact in spite of repeated upsets she faced in her married life due to NO FAULTt of her own.

Conclusion-Sen. Hillary Clinton is the best choice for majority of us Americans interested in the welfare of our wonderful Nation.

It's gunna hurt both candidates. Look forget 3 in the morning I wouldn't trust Hillary at 1 in the afternoon. Wake up people, and smell the scandal that is clinton. i htought we wanted change. SHE is exactly what Obama is fighting against when he talks about washington corruption. I find it curious that she posed a question she herself could not answer. Just this morning she couldn't answer why she's a better candidate as far as national security. By the way with regard to the race the media is as biased as a lion around dinner time, though i understand why her supporters think that with all the attention she draws to herself. She screams at Obama, cries to the voters, whines to the media,and smiles when all else fails. Maybe she has multiple personality disorder in which case she doesn't belong in the white house, but a padded white room. You can be sure the longer this goes on the easier it gets for Mccain. This will be a portion of the stuff thrown at clinton if she's the nominee. We can't win with her

Jack;

I am sick and tired of hearing about why this primary is going to hurt the Democrats’ everyone that lives in the real world knows that John McCain does not stand a chance of winning in November. And that's that!

The media is not only giddy making sure the spin keeps the process going.

I wish we could get some "non-commentary" stories on the campaigns...both Hillary and Obama. I refuse to watch much more of this. I'm getting more and more info by way of the Internet and will ultimately turn off the TV.

Where is the headline: Hillary loses double digit lead in TX and squeeks by with win? Hearing the coverage you would think she won hands down and is the frontrunner. This election is all about delegates and last time I checked, Obama was winning.

All of this drama now is going to have a negative affect until November. McCain can take it easy for awhile and focus on collecting money, leting the Dem's smear each other while he holds his cards down low. In other words he doesn't have to race against anybody until the Dems figure it out. If the Democrats really want to stump McCain they're are going to have to make good on the super ticket they keep whispering about. McCain will have to be the only canidate digging dirt against two Democrats that are already obviouslly beloved amongst the people. The super ticket is a democrats response to the A-bomb. Not very nice is it Mr.Republican, but amazingly affective.

Jack,
The truth is this campaign isn't being prolonged. Stop all the exaggerating. You know that previous campagins have gone on longer than this. Democratic's would be disappointed if Obama or Sen. Clinton withdrew from the race. We want the process to take it's course. I believe the job of the press is to report the news,not instigate situations for ratings.

it will improve them,,,,mccain will forget that he is still running so it will be a walk off for the dems.....

Oh it's over for the democratic party (thanks to Hillary's hunger for the white house). She's showed the world how dirty and unfair she can be. She'll do anything, anything to get back in the white house with her family again. She doesn't care that she's hurting the democratic party, unless she is the winner it really doesn't matter to her if McCain wins. As a matter of fact, I believe if she doesn't win....she would rather see McCain win just so she can say, "I told you so." Her negative pride discuss me. As much as I don't want to see Bush (McCain) elected for a third term....at this point I just might rather see that happen cause I don't think I would be able to find the courage to go stand in line to vote for Hillary in November.

Marceline,
From Florida

Jack, in the end it won't make a dime's difference. Have you been watching the Democratic turnout? Do you realize just how furious people are with the incumbents and the status quo? Even Ralph Nader could beat the weary, tired, old, Bush-endorsed, failed Iraq policy, economics novice McCain this fall. It's not even going to be close.

Its going to get ugly. Clinton has a grudge to settle against the Republicans. She's going to fight tooth and nail, regardless of the colateral damage to the party.

Obama is still the best one for the job. we need something new and someone who will bring this country together again. I am not suprised that Hillary won last night but I don't think she can beat McCain. It is time to decide and finalize this process so we can start calm down and start working on November.

It will hurt the Democrats since Hillary now seems bent on destroying her opponent. She needs to look at the math: she needs about 62% of the remaining 611 pledged delegates to beat Obama. If she wins with Superdelegates, or by changing the rules on FL and MI, the Democratic party be over.

It will hurt the chances of the Democrats. It seems pretty clear that Hillary will continue to sling mud at Obama and in doing so, helping McCain. She nearly endorsed him the other day by praising his "lifetime of experience" while reducing OBAMA'S experience to "a speech." If she keeps it up, she may not only lose the Dem. primary but help deliver a win to McCain in November. But maybe she WANTS that so she can either run again in 4 more years or run as McCain's running mate.

Jack, any viewer with common sense, watching you talk, realizes that your attitude is against Hillary. You are right. She is still behind the delegates count. So does Obama. This is a democratic process to choose the right president for 08. I say let the process continue. I also say you be fair for both. OK.

The extended fight won't hurt unless Hillary keeps up her ridiculous attacks on her own party instead on issues. There's so much corruption in the Clinton household, including Hillary, that most people won't vote for her, rather they WILL vote against her.

the only presidential candidate is Barck Obama who has remained cool, calm, has integrity even in the face of the Clinton mess-machine. Hillary has the nerve to suggest Obama as VP???? Talk about ego, she only wants his money making abilities...and after she's torn him down! Yikes!

If it turns out a Hillary nomination, McCain will win hands down without having to do anything anyway. She lies again...Ohio doesn't prove she beats McCain at all. One state out of 50? give me a break.

It won't affect the democrats at all,but if Hillary shares a ticket with Obama.They will shurely lose,and Republicans will win in November hands down,I can't belive that Hillary would even think about it!! There is other very good running mates to chose from!!!!

At the start of the primaries, I was undecided but favoring Hillary. As we approached Feb 4th Super Tuesday (I reside in Georgia), I made the choice to vote for Obama, but still was more than willing to support Hillary IF she won the nomination as a result of the popular vote. My issue is this...when Hillary was winning by delegate count, it was all about the delegate count for her, now that she is clearly behind in delegates, most super delegates are pledging to go with the majority of their respective states and Florida and Michigan will probably not be a factor, NOW Hillary is saying it's all about who can win the large states. If the Democratic nominee is not the individual who receives the most electorial delegates, he or she WILL NOT receive my vote! It is not all about who WE THINK might beat McCain, but rather, who the majority of the voter have elected!! I am sick and tired of "the powers that be" undermining the process and totally ignoring the will of the people!!!

Jack,
It's a no-brainer that it will hurt the Democrats' chances. The real question is how coincidental was it the the conservative Canadians sank Democratic hopes and guaranteed an unrenegotiated NAFTA in one leaked memo. Even the Clintons are not that Machiavellian.

This prolonged battle will only extend the force of which Obama calls the fierce urgency of now. For Clinton, more time for attacks. The two candidates will benefit, one for the country, and one for self.

Uchenna
Atlanta,GA

It is utter nonsence to suggest that Hillary's wins last night will somehow adversely affect the Democrat's chances in the general election. This is democracy and the Primary process in action and the resulting debates can only be good for America. The only thing that is bad for democracy is the disenfranchisement of Florida and Michigan under the guise of 'Everyone knew the rules". I don't believe they had the right to make such arrogant and undemocratic rules to start with let alone insist that they be adhered to. THAT is what could get ugly not Hillary's hard fought and much deserved wins.

Very negatively. Some democrats will start looking at another party or not voting at all.

Hillary clinton is the most qualified person in this race for the presidency ..... BY FAR! Jack, your biased, boorish prefaces to questions about her candidacy have become intolerable. From now on I will turn off CNN when you are presented. There is no "open question as to how much progress Senator Clinton has made against front-runner Barack Obama." She defeated him in ALL the large primary states; while he managed to carry several of the smaller "red," caucus states (which will vote Republican in the fall). Senator Obama does NOT win important primaries. Hillary Clinton will win a presidential race. Senator Obama will not.

It means that the Democrats are about to campaign themselves right out of a White House win. Hillary Clinton has proved that she will stop at nothing to win the nomination and that means that her battle with Obama will be truly ugly with all the personal attacks.

On top of that, there will definitely be a brokered convention and OH Yes, what about Michigan and Florida. This mess, I'm sure, will end with Hillary being the Democratic nominee and then John McCain beating her in the general election and finally grid lock for another 4 to 8 years.

As with the story about the female lobbyist, the Democrats will do for McCain what he can’t do for himself. He can’t win but the Dems will figure out a way to loose if it takes putting all their primaries into court battles.

That is an interesting question and the answer is not simply.

Contrary to the opinions of many, I believe that the ongoing contest will be a benefit to whomever becomes the Democratic party's nominee, because their positions will be thoroughly hashed out before the General Election begins.

Alot of people in the party accept that a large amount of Republican cross-over vote is occurring at the advise of the conservative radio host, Rush Limbaugh. Though this interference on its face seems a bad thing, In fact it will, I believe serve to unite the party against the Republicans to degree that has never before been seen when the Nominee is chosen.

Also if that candidate isn't Barack Obama – this interference in the democratic process will turn an entire generation of young voters against the Republican party for years to come.

Obama spent three times as much money, and yet Hillary won. Don't try to down play her successes. These wins were HUGE!!!

Jack, I don’t think there is anything wrong with what’s going on in the Democratic Race. Aren’t you guys all getting ahead of yourselves? Since when did March become SUCH a late time to still have two candidates in the Democratic Race? Bobby Kennedy was still vying for the Democratic Nomination in June when he was assassinated. I think it’s perfectly fine and perfectly healthy for the Democrats to continue this out. I myself wouldn’t mind seeing a Clinton/Obama ticket. With that being said, I’d still much prefer to see Clinton on top. Nothing wrong with experience AND change rolled into one.

Chuck Norris. Granted, it's a silly choice, but I can't of anyone else better. Plus, we need a pres that rocks the red beard.

McCain and Hillary are talking about experience but this so call experience has cause this country to fall in the delima it's in today. We must face the facts that this country need change. I hope this country doesn't cause it own destruction due to feeling and emotions.

Jack your spinning her win, all we could hear from you reporters and commentators is she had to win the two big states and in fact she won 3 out of 4. The fact that 2/3 of democrats in a recent poll said that if she won just 1of the big states in yestedays primaries to stay in the race. It will come down to Florida, we all know that Howard Dean made a monumental mistake by punishing the people of Florida because the republican governor decided to change their primary date. They should have counted the votes, and only reveal the results in a later date, but instead they decided to punish the people and this is unexceptable. They now have to be counted and Michigan has to be redone. Its the only way out of this impass. An american citizen in Montreal

Hillary did not win last night......She is where she was the night before last night.....Obama should stop to be the nice guy and start talking about hillary tax return,Bill"s business deals with the dictator of Khazakhstan,The renting of the white house Lincoln rooms to the highest bidders,Monica and jennifer Flowers to name a few items.She will never catch up with Delegates needed to make her the nominee and she is already running as the presumptive nominee.Shame on you Hillary

Jack, I don't give a rat's tail about the Democratic Party; I just want someone as President who works hard and has solutions, Hillary has the experience, etc., to lead and we don't know that much about Obama as he hasn't even served one full term in the Senate; plus what about all those "present votes" in the state senate. He has not been vetted as the press and news media have treated him with "kid gloves." Why don't you men get over it; having a woman who is smart and hard working!

Last night has plummeted the Democratic Party into the dark chasm of self-destruction. Now the two exceptional, well-financed candidates will robustly and endlessly grind themselves until only gristle, bone, and dust remain. All this while the Republican successor heals and is nourished upon this Democratic detritus.

I suppose I could laugh at this madness if I weren't grossly ill over the now-enhanced prospect of continued Republican misrule.

What's wrong with the Dems?...Are they trying to give the presidency back into the hands of a party that is obviously out of touch with the mainstream middle class? I've heard all the strategists claim that this isn't a huge deal, but If it's one thing we all have learned in this race is that nothing can be predicted. I am getting irritated at this process as it drags the will of the peoples' face in the mud, soon sending it to be decided by more people affiliated with the establishment. If Howard Dean doesn't find a solution to this problem Cafferty, if I may plagarize...It's getting ugly out there

Reggie, Dallas TX

Yes. The Democratic Party is split along conservative and liberal lines. It is clear that more conservative Democrats are voting Clinton while more liberal Democrats are voting Obama. With the near 50/50 split among delegates, superdelegates can very well determine who the nominee is, irrespective of what Clinton, Obama, or the voters think. When this happens, one will walk away happy with the nomination and all the glory, while the other will walk away with nothing and rejected (if there is not a Clinton-Obama ticket). People will be angry, and the party will be split in two. A split party will spell disaster for Democrats in November.

I do feel that prolonging this battle will undermind the credibility of the Democratic party. As Obama said, "The country is watching us. They are watching how we treat each other". The bottomline is neither of the Democratic candidates has had any military leadership responsibility nor experience running the country. For me, that means it is vitally important that the winning candidate demonsrate the ability to choose strong, competent advisors to it's cabinet based on his/her decision-making for this country. Barak has shown the guption to stand up when it was unpopular to do so and that is what is important to me.

People have short memories. Not long ago, Obama was in the
West 40. Hillary has been engaged in self promotion since elected Senator of New York. The Clintons only know how to win by throwing trash out their windows for others to waste time picking up. We can only hope that everyone sees their self indulgence. Obama is the first major beneficial movement towards cleaning up our special interest controlled government. in decades. You can bet I will be doing all I can to keep that in motion. Our youth of America own the future unconditionally. Let them have it. Clintons go home.

As annoying as it is to watch Hillary strut across the stage and annoint herself the winner everytime she makes some progress, then so be it. The republicans still don't stand a chance this election cycle. I just hope the candidates mind their manners.

Jack, even when Senator Obama has secured the nomination, the Clinton camp will find a way to make it look unofficial. She has pure disdain for the popular vote and is starting to sound like the candidate who really considers him/herself a "Messiah". Greetings from Puerto Rico, where Hispanics won't support Hillary Clinton.

Extending the campaign for Democrat candidate for President until Fall is not necessary. Clinton-Obama ticket would be a slam dunk and I feel together they would be a landslide victory. They are both great candidates with abilities to handle day one in the White House. Just their debates alone made it visible to the American public that here are the perfect pair to get this country back on it's feet after eight years of Bushwacking.

Consider that it is next to impossible for Hillary to get the delegate lead, and that this will go down to the convention unless she drops out. Now consider that it is next to impossible for Obama to win a backroom knife fight at the convention, his only option is to go for the knockout before august. Now consider that the only way to get this knockout is to drop the rhetoric and start vetting Hillary.

Now consider how much mud is going to fly.

It’s gunna hurt both candidates. Look forget 3 in the morning I wouldn’t trust Hillary at 1 in the afternoon. Wake up people, and smell the scandal that is clinton. i htought we wanted change. SHE is exactly what Obama is fighting against when he talks about washington corruption. I find it curious that she posed a question she herself could not answer. Just this morning she couldn’t answer why she’s a better candidate as far as national security. By the way with regard to the race the media is as biased as a lion around dinner time, though i understand why her supporters think that with all the attention she draws to herself. She screams at Obama, cries to the voters, whines to the media,and smiles when all else fails. Maybe she has multiple personality disorder in which case she doesn’t belong in the white house, but a padded white room. You can be sure the longer this goes on the easier it gets for Mccain. This will be a portion of the stuff thrown at clinton if she’s the nominee. We can’t win with her

McCain, Bush, Rove, and all the rest of the Republicans oughta be laughing their butts off today, and Hillary played right into their hand. Hillary even goes so far as to claim that she and McCain are the only ones with experience. The more things change, the more they stay the same! Here's an idea......let Hillary be Mcain's vice president.

It would be wise for one of the Democratic candidates to bow out. Obviously, the one who is ahead cannot and will not do that. I think Hillary's supporters will probably vote for Obama, I don't believe the same can be said for all of Obama's. He has attracted a number of new, young voters. If he is eliminated, to quote Paul Begala, in a closed door knife fight, these voters will simply fail to appear at the polls. It's possible to alienate African-Americans if they view this as unfair. There is ZERO chance of the "Dream Ticket". Look up the definition of dream and stop talking about it.

Well it definitely keeps attention on the Democrats- that’s always good. Alternatively, I think if they stoppped this now and made Hillary were the nominee and Obama were the VP, they would be unstoppable. She would get all the big states, he would get the smaller ones. They wouldn’t just win in November, they would win by a landslide. Then 8 years later, when Obama has gotten the experience he needs, he could run for President and Democrats would control the White House for 16 years. Wouldn’t that be great! So that’s something they should take into consideration.

Jack,
Hillary should stay and fight for the nomination no matter what and to the bitter end, this will give her the best credential to go up against McCain in 2012, as a fighter. Especially because Obama will be the democratic nominee- and he WILL loose to McCain. Obama's shady dealings with the slum lord of chicago and how he purchased his house/ recent NAFTA scandal & lack of experience are going to crush him.

It will give all democrats an opportunity to participate in an election which the republicans have tried to hijack in the "red states."

It will be very difficult for the GOP, because they can't have any solid strategy. They have to come up with two different attack machine. The DEM will have no problem to handle McCane. Hillary is so smart. She can handle all situation and she has been ready for the job for years. Stop detroying Hillary with your dirty weopon. She won!!You and your crowned prince lost and acting like a sour loser.
OK? JACK

I beileve it will greatly affect their chances to win the white house because it makes the demecrats look much weaker as a whole party, It makes them look divided. Meanwhile the republicans are rallying around John MCcain preparing him for battle, so to speak.If one of the demecrats emerges with a larger delegate count than the other at the end of the last contest, that's who should rightly be the demecratic nominee .

Jack

I think that the primary should go on until all the citizens have had their vote. I really don't understand why we should be in such a hurry to elect our presidental candidate. I personally would like to see all the states hold their primary on the same night, that way it would help control the media, and their commentaries in trying to influence the way people vote.

I don't think there will be a negative efect in November, after all if it continues into the summer, the candidates and their plans for the country will still be fresh in the people's mind.

Hillary is ready to kidnap america in the middle of the night and force us to vote for her. The fact that she is claiming that she has won the big states and that should make her the nominee is telling america that the other states and their voices should not be heard. Changing the rules in the middle of the game is old politics that is sure to gain a GOP presidential win if she does become the nominee.

Your next question should be... Would Hillary be fighting for the voices to be heard if one of the two states not counted for delegates were not a big delegate state.

I think it's a catch 22 for the Democrates. On one side of the fence, the continued battle will be able to take front page news, and not have to worry about competeing for the spot against the GOP race, in essence taking John McCane and the GOP off the radar for the time being, and being able to continue to remind the american people of what the GOP has done to the country over the past 7 years.

On the flip side of that, the american people seem to be starting to tiring of the constant overflow of updates of who did what today on the political trail. To be continuing that trend seems to be a negative blow to the DNC. Which could hurt them in the general election, when people start seeing McCane "for the first time" again.

Jack, you astound me! Can't you find in your non-compassionate soul to give Hillary a little credit? Only one day. One little comment of praise. Why knock her continnually? Why do you wnat to call the race now? Grow up! Get a life!

It is Hillary's way or no way. It does not matter to her who she hurt on her way to the White House. She is dillusional. Disingenuine and power hungry and does not care. She knows she does not have enough delegate to win the nomination. I do not tust the Clinton and the Bushes is the same old Gutter politics. I am happy that Barack Obama is giving her a run for her money.

Hillary thought that now is her turn so poor Bill has to help her get to the white House.

For every one information Hillary Clinton has so much dirt in her closeth compare to her Obama is really look green, so she better not be talking. For the media why is noboby reporting what Hillary did to Fulani in New York????? and Peter Paul in California???? and release her tax return. I use to like Hillary but now she is losing you can see her true color.

For my african american brothers and sisters that are selling their legacy for a piece in the Clinton white house I feel sorry for you all, because you do not appriciate what the others that walk before you did, otherwise you would not support Hillary. You will never get this change again.

Jack, there is going to be a huge affect on the elections in November. i can not see Obama's supporters supporting Clinton. If the Clintons try to steal a win with super delegates then you might as well start calling that that old man president. everybody keeps talking about Hispanics helping Clinton win the elections. i would like to see her win the elections in November without African Americans, because if she tries to steal this elections she will not get any support from us in November.

Eric

One more thing, Jack. When are we going to denounce Hilary's claim of 35 years of experience when she spent 12 as the unelected wife of the Governor of Arkansas and 8 as the unelected wife of the President. Since when do you get to run on your spouses record.

The divisive nature of the Clinton tactics will ultimately hurt the Democratic Party. She launched a disgusting string of attacks over the last few days to include an ad that intentionally darkened Barack Obama's skin. Is that what the United State of America is about? When will this madness end? Hillary also tried to paint a picture stating that Senator Obama is not qualified to be Commander in Chief........interesting that she would make that argument for the Republicans. Does she not realize who she is running against on the other side of the aisle? Who else is better to be Commander in Chief than a war hero who has given his whole life to his nation?

If it goes to the convention, it will fatally split the party. We're nearly there.

One thing that the Democrat Party continues to excel at is to be able to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

Hillary's dirty tactics also give fodder to the Republicans which is just one more reason why we will likely see the rise of a President McCain.

Wendy
San Rafael, CA

The longer this fight goes on the more this hurts the Democratic Party. First I’m very concern should Senator Clinton continue with the negative campaigning the more she separates herself from the “Obama” voters especially the new voters which the Obama camp has brought to the table for the Democratic Party. The Democratic party will need these voters to win in November. Her method of campaigning is creating a true dislike for her. They are so new and young to the political fight they see her almost in the same light a John McCain which will equal them just staying home. The Democratic Party must find a way to campaign without killing the spirit of the new voter. One other thing with respect to Texas, I’d really like to know how many Republicans voted in the Texas Primary for Hillary with no intention of voting for her in November. I seem to be hearing this a lot here in Texas that this was the Republican strategy to keep this going. Pretty smart wouldn't you say??

Karen
Dallas, Texas

Jack,

I believe the things that have to be looked at are how much Senator Clinton did really progress. Before March 04th Senator Obama had an approximately 279,000 vote lead in the overall popular vote. However, with the current numbers from March 04th Senator Clinton now has a 46,000 vote lead in the overall popular vote. Additionally, she has one more primaries than Obama (15-14).

Finally, the caucuses represent an unbalanced portion of the number of delegates. Approximately 2% of the votes cast while the primaries represent 98% of the votes cast for these two candidates while almost 16% of the delegates awarded come from the caucuses and 84% of the delegates awarded from the primaries so far.

With only one more caucus left, there is a chance that she will continue to show strength. The so called negative campaigning is really looking at a way to differentiate between the two candidates that appear to have very similar views on most of the issues.

David M.
Danville, CA

I'm don't think the Democrats will affected nearly as much as the people of America. The politicians will conduct "business as usual" for as long as we allow them to. What does Clinton care, she's already spent eight years in the white house? One would think that would be good enough in one lifetime.

Val, PA

Extending this battle will hurt the entire nation because if Hillary runs against Macain the country will go for the republican again. No matter what Hillary will not win this battle. She didn't in Texas and she didn't in Ohio. Remember Bill Clinton said she needs to win both by a big majority. She hasn't done that yet.

I think if the campaign is prolonged, it will expose more questionable behavior a nd associates of Barak Obama. It should have been done from the start to give the voters a true sense of the real Obama. We wouldn't be subject to all these controversies if he should be elected, if the coverage of him would have been as intense as it is for the other candidates of both parties.

If McCain can pick a VP and rally the Republican base then the Democrats will have a hard time balancing the attack on each other and going after McCain. America is anxious for a solution to it's current problems and if McCain can present a message that unites then it will be very hard to play catch up come November.

I just don't get it. In a socity that loves competitive sports so much why are so many afraid of a good political race. I believe it is the DNC that is doing the party a disservice in the way it has structured itself. Let the people vote and let the winner take all and let the super delegates get out of Dodge!!

It’s gunna hurt both candidates. Look forget 3 in the morning I wouldn’t trust Hillary at 1 in the afternoon. Wake up people, and smell the scandal that is clinton. I thought we wanted change. SHE is exactly what Obama is fighting against when he talks about washington corruption. I find it curious that she posed a question she herself could not answer. Just this morning she couldn’t answer why she’s a better candidate as far as national security. By the way with regard to the race the media is as biased as a lion around dinner time, though i understand why her supporters think that with all the attention she draws to herself. She screams at Obama, cries to the voters, whines to the media,and smiles when all else fails. Maybe she has multiple personality disorder in which case she doesn’t belong in the white house, but a padded white room. You can be sure the longer this goes on the easier it gets for Mccain. We don't stand a chance with her

Here is where it will hurt, if sen. Clinton stays negative and continues to try to change the rules to fit her needs the democratic party will have a bigger split maybe beyond repair. Even if Sen. Clinton can change the rules and stiff arm the superdelicates into backing her when she gets to the Whitehouse the Clinton's are already disliked by the republicans she will also have split the party to the point where she will have no chance to get any of her policies into law. She is not the one you want to bring party lines together to get things done.So her win at all costs or if I lose so will you attitude will possiable cost the democratic party dearly.

The extended battle for the nomination will only help Democrats’ chances in November. No one cares that McCain is now the Republican nominee as it has been a forgone conclusion since super tuesday. He's old news and will continue to get older. Additionally the continuation of the battle between Clinton and Obama will only garner more press while McCain is left in the shadows. Continuing to have two excellent democratic candidates in a tight race will only keep people more interested in the outcome.

To participate, they must hold a vote in accordance with the rules.

It is disingenious for Clinton to argue those delegates be seated as they are. She was the only one on the ballot in Michigan. Plus, she did break the rules by making appearances with a wink and a nudge in Florida prior to their vote.

Many in Florida and Michigan were disenfranchised by being told their votes did not count - so they did not cast them - or their candidates were not on the ballot.

It is only fair and just to revote and count the new votes.

Jack,

I realize that you are disappointed the Obama didn't win yesterday's primaries, but that doesn't mean that Hillary should abandon the many voters who have cast their ballots for her and those many more who still will vote for her.

She still has a chance even if it doesn't please you and the other Obama supporters. It ain't over 'til it's over.

After all, it is still 9 months or so until the election. This is plenty of time for the Democrats to come together and concentrate on John McCain.

Larry
Michigan

There are several outcomes from this Jack

1. McCain's Press will virtually dry up

2. McCain wont be able to "swiftboat" anyone until after august and by then it will be too little too late to matter

3. McCain won't have anyone to debate with

4. We will get to finally see some vetting of Barack Obama and get a clear insight to his capabilities to withstand vetting and the possibility of going against McCain better not to mention his "readiness" to run this country.

5. The Democrats will stay mentally involved in the election all summer and democratic voter turn out will be guaranteed to be Huge come fall because of that.

6. and my personal favorite we can go to convention and perhaps come out with a Al Gore nomination and throw McCain under the Bus!

Absolutely. I do not believe in conspiratory theories, but this is a real one.
Many Republicans in Texas primaries voted for Hillary because she is a easier candidate for McCain to win against. They probably did that in Ohio too . And going forward , they will do that in other states too. And the system cannot stop this either!

Jack,
It should not hurt the Democrats, but it would hurt our democracy to encourge not allowing the political process to play out. Why do some Americans believe that others should not have the opportunity to cast a vote for their candidate...ALL people have the right to vote - it's called a democracy. There are still 5 million potential votes in the remaining states that have not held their primaries. Considering that Obama currently leads Clinton by only roughly 33,000 popular votes, she obviously still has a chance to pass Obama with the popular vote in the upcoming primaries. LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK.

I think that you media guys should love this. But the public is going to get so damn tired of this that they may be turned off by the whole thing.
Neither Hilary nor Obama will be able to get the out right nomnations I think its time to flip the coin and see who is Pres and V Pres. Then beat the old man who is not sure where the hell he at.