The power of John Edwards?
[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i.l.cnn.net/cnn/2008/images/01/29/art.edwardssc.gi.jpg caption=" Senator John Edwards campaigns throughout South Carolina."]
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
He hasn't won anything yet, and his showing in some cases has been dismal. But John Edwards is showing no signs of getting out the race. Maybe he doesn't have anything else to do. His campaign says that Edwards will stay in it until the Democratic Party convention, and they're hopeful that we can still win it.
One top campaign official says quote: "There are numerous scenarios that lead to us being nominated." Right, like if Obama and Clinton drop out. But this same official points out that it's "essentially impossible" for one person to get a majority of delegates with three candidates in the race. That's because the Democrats allot all their delegates proportionally - no winner-take-all – and so far, Clinton and Obama have pretty much been splitting the lion's share of the delegates.
Even if he doesn't win, and he won't, Edwards could still play a role if the nomination ends up being decided by a brokered convention. In such a scenario, Edwards could use his delegates - potentially hundreds of them - to promote his platform or to act as a power broker. As one political analyst says: "It's obvious what he has in mind - if you can't be the king, then be the king or queen-maker".
And by staying in the game, Edwards can also influence the race in different states. For example, he could divide the white vote with Hillary Clinton like he did in South Carolina, which could help Barack Obama. Or, Edwards could attract some of the voters seeking "change", which could hurt Obama.
Here’s my question to you: If the Democrats wind up with a brokered convention, what role would John Edwards play?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Michael writes:
If the Democrats wind up with a brokered convention, Edwards will use his delegates to secure him the vice presidential slot by backing whomever will name him VP. Remember, Edwards has been campaigning for president for 10 years and will happily take the VP slot for any presidential candidate with the hopes of becoming president in 8 years.
Jeannette from Hartwell, Georgia writes:
If we are lucky, John Edwards will be the nominee. He is the best choice to lead America, and if the media (yes, this includes you, Jack) wasn't part of big business and threatened by John, he would have gotten better treatment from all you talking heads.
Michael writes:
His political career will be over. Democrats and voters will be so irritated with his shady politics and complete waste of their time that he will lose the little support that he does have. He is obviously trying to nose his way into the White House, either as president or as vice-president. The man obviously has no chance and his obstruction of the voice of the people will destroy his popularity.
Michael writes:
It is clear that Edwards want to be a King-Maker, not a Queen-Maker, throwing his support behind Obama. In exchange, John Edwards will be the V.P. Except this time, unlike 2004, the Democratic Party lead by Barack Obama will win it.
Paul writes:
He should be vying for Attorney General. Could you imagine having an attack dog like him running the Justice Department? Republicans would wet their pants at the thought of a trial lawyer with subpoena power.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
John Edwards would have had a better chance if the media coverage had been more fair and not hammered the race and gender stories down our throats. We should select our candidates based upon their qualifications, period. Try giving Edwards some air time between now and Super Tuesday and see how the rest of America responds. So far, I'm only hearing motivational messages from Obama and watching as he squirms when confronted on any real issue, trying to find another motivational response instead of an intelligent answer. He appears to be another "W" with a better command of the langauge. Watch him during the next debate when Clinton or Edwards nail him on an issue or ask why he rarely commited to a vote when in Illinois. His whining in Myrtle Beach was sickening. We've had 8 years of an immature president who thinks he ever made a mistake. Our country can't survive four more years of the same, regardless of their party affiliation. If we do end up with Obama as President, I pray he surrounds himself with Joe Biden, Chris Dodd and John Edwards to guide him as Carl Rove and Gonzales guided Bush.
If no one enters the convention with a majority of the delegates, despite destroying each other throughout the campaign, hopefully they will chose Edwards who will have the best chance of uniting the Democrat Party and the country.
Jack ,
Edwards is running for the VP slot , and he hopes to use them Delegates as bargaining power. Personally i think he will lean towards Obama.
Jack, if this does occur, it will require whoever becomes the nominee of the party to owe "favors" to John Edwards. But wait, neither of the Senators owe anyone...yea right!
looks like the power to nominate himself for v.p.?
I hope John Edwards does stay in. Go John!!
I think you are pretty close when you talk about his influence at the convention, and certainly a spoiler for Hilary with some voters, but maybe not so much.
Edwards would make THE BEST Attorneys General, especially when you picture the office on his first day of work. And you know he would get out that broom.
So maybe he is looking for that........to be important enough to be in a cabinet post.
Who knows, who cares, as you say, it's not his year......again.
I personally voted for John Edwards on my mail-in ballot. I would like to see an Edwards/Obama ticket. But, if I can't get my way I'll settle for Obama/Edwards ticket.
John Edwards is a delightful candidate. He is intelligent, fair-minded, tactful, experienced, attractive – in short he has all of the attributes needed to become president. It is unfortunate for him that this particular campaign, filled with such talented orators, qualified candidates, and dynamic, experienced personnae, has split the vote into so many fragments that the positives for Edwards are dwarfed. If the delegate votes are not moot by then, his opinion at the convention will be heeded by virtually every single delegate that is pledged to him at the time.
It is, after all, not his fault that he is not black or female, and that his gender and color represent all that has gone wrong with America since 1776. Oh, yeah, I forgot – there is no racism or sexism left in America. Right.
Edwards is taking more votes away from Obama than Clinton. If he didn't have such a narcissistic personality he would step out of the race and run with Obama, only then can he find himself getting into the White House. Of course, I wont be voting for any democrat (you want to talk about being in bed with special interests! Take a look at where their money is coming from...) – I'll be voting for the soon to be independent Ron Paul.
HE WILL PLAY BOTH SIDES FOR EITHER VP OR AG;
John Edwards is a very qualified, very likable, and very determined Presidential candidate. He simply is one of three people who happen to all be qualified. And so he is right to fight on, although I believe he is fighting unbelievable odds, with the new found potential to make history with either of the other two candidates. He should show his strength, and then bow down and fight for VP, so that he can have all the chances to be a perfect fit in 2016.
John Edwards is "toast." John Edwards was contanimated by Al Gore, who was contaminated by Bill Clinton. We need new bread in the "toaster"; we don't need to re-toast the old toast.
I like John Edwards, not as much as Obama, but a hell of a lot more than Hillary. I think that an Obama/Edwards ticket would be unstoppable. My wife is an Edwards supporter & I am glad that she is. He's a hell of a guy & I wish him the best. Who "runs" for VP twice, though? Not sure if I see that happening.
Jack
It all comes down to this, do the voters of our country feel we are ready for either a woman or a black president ? If not John Edwards will be our next president.
What role would John Edwards play...hummm...well, if he has enough delegates to swing the nomination either way..Clinton or Obama..., I would assume he would be granted any role he wished. "Good evening, Attorney General Edwards".
John Edwards has a problem. He wants to fight. He is divisive. Instead of working to solve problems by bringing people together, he wants to win, which means that there will be losers and losers will fight back. He and Billary should do well together and I would expect him to weasel his way into the Clinton camp.
He would be in a stong position as a compromise or to tip the sacles to Obama or Clinton.
Lets be honest J.E. would never go for a Clinton VP he knows that Bill will be running the show from behind the curtains, in the end he would be dished just as Al Gore was when he ran after the Clinton Presidency.
To John Edwards please put your votes and delegates behind Obama your idea's would be appreciated as his VP.
Just to become a thorn in Hillary and Obama's backside.
Jack,
At a brokered convention or not, I think the anti-poverty message of John Edwards will be the main focal issue of the event. This is going to play right into his theme of two Americas' of the haves and the have nots. Along with the delegates he a masses and his message of two Americas' he is going to have an important voice.
John Edwards has had the misfortune of running against a woman and a black man. He has been ignored by the media which is unfortunate because he has the best ideas and solutions. His wife is also the most wonderful and supportive person for first lady. She has no agenda. Edwards should either be the vice presidential nominee or be the first candidate for attorney general.
let's see, we got dorothy, we got the tin man (apparently he brought the lion), so that leaves the scare crow. Edwards would be the scarecrow... discuss amongst yourselves
Male model
This week we learned about the "superdelegates", a full forty percent of the Democrat's convention delegates that are NOT selected by the state caucuses or primaries but divied out by party power brokers as a mechanism for the "Party" to retain control over the party's nomination process. So much for democracy. When the party machine retains 40% of the vote, Edwards' measly percentage of delegates becomes nearly irrelevant, as does the primarty process itself. 1984?
I believe that Edwards would be a strong VP candidate on a ticket with Clinton. If you review their policies, they are similar, especially on healthcare. This would allow them to work closely and get Results!
John Edwards is actually the best Democrat running, but he has badly marketed himself. If you listen to him discuss economics, he knows his stuff. But then he goes out and talks about economics as if it were 1932. If you want to help the poor, run the economy properly like Bill Clinton did. He did not engage in a lot of social spending and yet did more for the poor than anybody sense since FDR. The economy can work miracles, but only if you run it properly, It is a trickle up economy that requires that wealth be recycled from the top back down to the bottom. Otherwise the rich just get richer and you end up like the Central American economies (all wealth at the top)..
I’ve been for John Edwards all along (although I also like Hillary) and have already mailed in my absentee ballot in California for Edwards. There are a lot of Edwards supporters out there; they just aren’t very vocal. Unfortunately this Obama-Hillary thing has been obscuring the real issues. Ted and Caroline Kennedy just endorsed Obama and they say this will sway their followers. WRONG! I have been such a Kennedy fan all my life – more than any rational person would understand. However, when Ted did that, I unsubscribed from his email and sent a note telling him that I didn’t appreciate him betraying the Clintons. Instead of persuading me to vote for Obama, he has made me very angry and this life-time Democrat will vote for McCain before voting for Obama.
His role would be as a Democratic choice for the nomination at the Democratic National Convention.
I love John Edwards, I want to nominate him for Attorney General under President Obama. If Obama has taken the torch from JFK, then can't you see John Edwards as Bobby Kennedy? -a fierce Attorney General protecting the middle class and the poor from corporate excesses and greed.
I think they should continue to team play Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton- that makes it a fair contest two against two. When we get to the convention Obama will take the nomination, add what planks he does not yet include from Edwards platform to his own.
After all the voting is done Senator Edwards will decide the Democratic nominee.
John Edwards does not receive fair coverage. CNN left him out of their last poll on who would beat the Republican candidate. The poll they did in December showed John Edwards beating them all.
The corporate owned media in the US does not want John Edwards to be elected because he is against some corporations that are making huge profits off of the middle and lower class.
He would actually try to bring some much needed relief to the working poor and the middle class. It is a shame what the press is doing.
Why doesn't Lou Dobbs have him on since he so despises Corporate Greed?
How presumptious of MSM , Obama/clinton supporters to think
so narrowly!! and selfishly!
there is always the possibility that he (edwards) will end up with the nomination when obama is trashed by RESKO business
and if we do go to a B.Convention......well then there is also the possibility that
Al Gore who is waiting for just such a scenerio to enter this race would then get Edwards Delegates and come out the Nominee with Edwards as Gores VP
which is the reason Al Gore will not endorse anyone in this race
but John Edwards is the closest matched with Al Gores stance on the issues
Jack
If this country really wants change, and they want a President who is not beholden to Washington Insiders, or to the Chicage political machine. There is only choice John Edwards. It's his agenda that the other 2 have adopted, except he has laid out his plans in detail not some pie in the sky. By the time Mrs Clinton and Mr Obama get done roasting themselves, it will leave the BEST person standing
Edwards 08
He will definitely be a player in this election for sure. I just hope Bill and Hillary's ugly politics have offended him enough to make the right decision for America when that time comes.
I think John Edwards would make a great Vice President for Hillary Clinton.
I think that they both need to look at their so called friends. Who was the man that John Edwards run as Vice President for in the last election oh Yea the so called friend who endorsed Obama that says a lot for that so called friend or so call running mate. Hilllary take a look at the so call friend that you thought you had now he is endorsing Obama looks like these two so called friends have truly showed what kind of people we have in our government
I hope that Clinton and Edwards side together and make a stand for the United States. the country that they both hold dear to there heart
Ted Kennedy has worked with the best candidate...Barack Obama...and I'm GLAD Teddy endorsed Barack. Edwards would do well with an Obama/Edwards VP ticket or as attorney general. Hillary's apron strings are tied too closely to Billy. I'm so glad to see people endorsing the BEST candidate instead of a lousy candidate who is a "friend". This country needs the BEST candidate, not a Hillary friend. Go Barack Obama!
According to MItt Romney, John Edwards gets the bronze award! I hope he's able to pawn it for a cabinet position.
Go John! The Dem's WINNING TICKET: OMABA /EDWARDS '08. Remember, in order to get the WH (BACK) you NEED to get 270. Any other ticket, you will lose the WH (for 8 YEARS, not 4, don't kid yourself), the senate (55-45, AGAIN!) and of course the Supreme Court (a Conservative court, nonetheless 7-2 yup, KIDDOS, it's gonna be 7-2! ) MARK MY WORDS. But the saddest part is gonna be that: YOU,as a voter, YOU could've CHANGE the (WASHINGTON'S) RULES once and for all but you decided that you were better than that. What a shame, what a shame…INDEED.
John Edwards has come off as the most presidential, Clinton and Obama as two spoiled rich kids trying to pass themselves off as victims. The media, especially CNN has endorsed Obama for practical purposes and has kept the Clintons in the spotlight. Edwards has been shafted, but I hope he stays the course, as he gives us a maturity and common sense stand. I personally do not like his stand on illegal immigration, but I believe he is basically honest during this campaign.
My wife and I would have preferred to vote for John Edwards but, unless the Obama train is derailed, the GOP will retake the White House in November.
We voted for Hillary Clinton via absentee ballot in the California Primary to do our part in getting a Democrat as President.
I truly admire the only grown-up – John Edwards
Sometimes the old sayings have it best: "Be careful how you treat people on the way to the top. They'll be there to meet you on the way down."
The democratic debate I saw with Clinton, Obama and Edwards was very reminiscent of the debates in 2003 when Edwards and Kerry both ganged up on Dean in the debates. Oh... and didn't Edwards get the VP nod? He's a spoiler! It makes me angry that he is acting in a way to subvert the people–isn't that what he says the lobbyists do?
Jack,
John is like the "little engine that could" running against two high speed trains; he thinks he can, he thinks he can, but isn't.
John Hall, Michigan
The media, including the self-proclaimed "Best Political Team on Television," have given token coverage to John Edwards from the outset. They've chosen to play up the race-gender narrative, and ignore the fact that Edwards drove the discussion of substantive issues among Democrats. To the media he represents the "Inconvenient Candidate."
I happen to like a lot of what John Edwards has to say, even though I am an Independent. Maybe he feels that if he has enough votes he can have some leverage with whoever may need his help. Also Vice-President nomination will probably look pretty good to him.
Jack- I can understand John Edwards motivation to stay in, if what the pundits are suggesting is correct. I see Edwards as VP to Obama and Hillary as the Secretary of State!
First – Bert, swing and a miss on the Super Delegates, they make up less than 20% of the overall vote.
Second – I think John Edwards makes a good VP candidate (if he would want to do it again), but I see him better as a cabinet member. I know some people have been saying Attorney General, which could be a fit, but what about Secretary of Labor. Edwards is such a labor favorite and he would get to have a direct hand in helping the poor. What do you all think?
Regardless of which position, he will be in the national spotlight and give him a chance in 2016 if a democrat wins this election.
At a brokered convention, John Edwards will continue to push a progressive issues agenda, speaking for the disenfranchised and those of us struggling to make ends meet. He will negotiate for power-sharing in the new Democratic White House. Who knows, if Billary and Obama don't stop their squabbling and neither ends up with enough delegates, the Democrats might decide to nominate Edwards, who has the best shot at winning in November anyway!
Jack it is how many Delegate you get not what state's you win, if he is the one to put someone over the top well maybe it might mean V.P. Edwards if it is Obama I don't think he would go with Clinton. He cares more about the every day person than any of them so I hope he can hang in and be there at the end. To hell with the DNC, they want a winner now and we will decide that thank you.
Edward's problem is Obama. If Obama wasn't in the race, I would be voting for Edwards. From Hillary and Bill's conduct in the primaries, I have trouble believing that the Clintons are really democrats.
Who does Edwards think would make the better President, other than himself? That's who he will support. He's a good man who truly wants what is best for our nation; too good a man to leverage his way into a job, especially one that pays only a small percentage of what he could earn in the private sector.
he ran vp before he might wanna trade his delegates for vp
If Edwards continues along this path and the Clinton/Obama race remains as close as it is until the Convention, Edwards will essentially use his delegates as a way to "buy" a spot at VP or Attorney General. What have the Democratic primaries come to if this is what we expect of the candidate whom is "above the fray"?
Edwards voice has been drowned out by HIllary and Obama. First election for a women or black.
But the media doesn't help either. There is little media reporting on him. I have to give him credit – he tries and continues to try. What would you have him do Jack, just throw up his arms and give up – let the race go on. If he wants to continue, I say – go for it.
Jack ,
You wrote:
" He hasn’t won anything yet, and his showing in some cases has been dismal. But John Edwards is showing no signs of getting out the race"
If I didn't know better, I'd think you were writing about GW's 2000 election results-
Let John run the race, Jack-one never knows what can happen in the next laborious 9 months ( pun intended) unless of course the media, or celebrities pick our candiates ahead of time for us.
If I had a penny for every time I heard someone say they prefer Edwards but don't think he'll win, I'd have more money than Edwards has collected so far. Too bad, too. He was the first to actually release plans on the issues rather than just state a general position. After each instance, the other two took his plan and adjusted it to be slightly different. He owes it to America to stay in the race if for no other reason than continuing to drive and define party policy. Otherwise, it's a cult of personality and the Republicans may actually have a shot. Obama has shown no interest in running things differently than the status quo in his short time in congress. Hillary is the status quo. At least Edwards refuses lobbyist money (which is another reason he has been unable to compete).
That's his role: defining policy. And whomever gets the nomination would be smart to bring him along in some capacity. You know, Edwards could choose either candidate as his running mate, and a victory would still make history.
One of two words, either, WINNER or
what you going to offer me for my support.
mel
Colorado
I think John Edwards would be a great president, and I hope he keeps running. One has to wonder why the press has not given him the coverage he deserves. Is it because big business is afraid they might have to help some poorer Americans with health care, etc. and pay more in taxes. The press should not focus on voting in a woman for president, or voting in a black for president. The press should be helping Americans decipher which candidate is the most competent to lead our nation. John Edwards has wonderful ideas and solutions for helping our country recover from the many problems we are facing. I'm tired of hearing comments that John is wealthy–so what if he is? John earned his money, and no one gave the Edwards family a house (unlike another candidate). John was not dependent on living in the governor's mansion to provide housing for his family. John's financial independence will enable him to lead according to conscience. He will not be dependent on the lobbyists. Our country is so great, but the politicians have sold us out–allowing corporations to send jobs overseas while the CEO's get millions in bonuses. It goes on and on.
Wake up America. Look at John Edwards qualifications and vote for him while you can!
He will be the token white guy on the ticket regardless of who gets top billing. He might even get top billing.
Obviously Edwards goal in life is to be Vice President. Right now, thats his only option.
Senator Edwards is pretty much finished! His staying on board after" Super Tuesday ",with a bad showing , reminds me of a spoiled child. That certainly should not be the character of a future President. Splitting the vote benifits no one, except, creating the further demise of the Democratic Party. The party's already broken John, don't "broker" your ill-gotten delegates, to pacify your ego! My opinion is get out now ,and stop playing each side against each other!!!
Jack,
I believe we need to change our process. It is very upsetting to know that my vote really doesn't count. Why do these mega delegates have so much power? Didn't we learn anything these last seven to eight years?
I believe Edwards should stay in until the end. Why not? No one really knows what will happen in the end. Maybe Edwards will go against the super delegates and make a difference in the end.
I want to have the rights I should have being an American, I want my voice heard and to count! I really hope this happens in my lifetime, if not mine in my children's and/or grandchildren's.
Sandy
I agree strongly with Ralph's point above. Edwards is a terrific candidate (he was actually my choice in '04 over Kerry) but I really don't like the way he has chosen to brand himself this time around. I understand the need to distinguish his platform from Obama and Clinton, but the constant populist rhetoric makes him sound like a democratic candidate of 15 years ago, rather than the intelligent, progressive person I believe him to be.
I do think Edwards needs to recognize he is not going to win this time, and either get on somebody's ticket or get out of the race. I think the Democrats have let the Republicans up off the matt in the last couple of weeks. While Obama, Hillary, and Bill trade barbs, and Edwards sits back and tries to score points by pointing out their bickering, the Republican establishment is aligning (albeit reluctantly) behind John McCain, who would be a VERY strong candidate in November. It is in the Democrats' best interest to get behind a candidate quickly, and as much as I like Edwards and believe he is sincere, I worry that he is hurting the chances a Democrat will be in the White House next January.
Jack, at the democratic convention, Edwards will play the role, of Queen maker. He doesn't have a chance, at the presidency but will get the most bang, for the buck, for his delegates.
He will stay in the race. If only to see how many votes he gets. But VP nominee with Obama is my guess. How would you like to see a VP debate between John Edwards and Rudy?
His positions are now similar to Obama's. He has hitched his wagon to Obama's message of "change" and I think he WILL change the outcome of the nomination by handing over his delegates to Obama. He will be the KING-maker-not the queen-maker.
Jack, I think if there is a brokered convention then Edwards will end up with a very nice job in January when the next president takes office.
Derek in NJ
I have also been for John Edwards from the get to. I don't know why his message didn't resinate into the voters ears. I am not going to say he is out of the race, strange things happen in politics. However I am liking Obama better each time I hear him speak. I am a democrat at heart but I think John McCain would make a good president. So I am now undecided, unless a John Ewards political miracle happens.
Steven
Kentucky
if John Edwards is not the democratic nominee than he will be a decicive variable in who is going to loose to the republicans. Niether Clinton nor Obama should even be in the running, the last thing this country needs is another popularity contest. We need a leader not a "rock star"
Jack, I like Edwards; he just isn't winning the states or the people over that well. However, put him in a room with Hillary and Obama and he looks good for the taking. Edwards can stay in the race and here is what I suspect or suggest should happen. Edwards and Obama are thinking similar, so if obama can get the vote; he should have Edwards as his Vice-President. I think that would seal the deal for democrat's.
Dana From Florida
Why is Mr. Edwards still around? It wouldn't have anything to do with the nearly 3,600 uncommitted delegeates who are still up for grabs, does it? How in the world does John Edwards have a chance with the voters when most stories written about him open with pronouncements of his political death? The only major candidate running for President who has any idea what its like to be part of a working class family has had to fight the perceptions reinforced by tuntold stories of stories about his house and his hair. Why not cover the subtle differences in the candidates health care plans? Where is the scrutiny regarding the campaign contributions to the Clinton campaign from DLA Piper, Alston and Bird, or Cassidy and Associates–all who bundle money for foriegn governments. Doesn't that seem more important?
Janitor.
Edwards needs to get a clue and bow out gracefully!
Right message, wrong messenger.
John you are becoming a pest. You said, this is an election NOT a coronation.
And you are long gone man.
Just let them duke it out.
Say , you have dreams to be a kingmaker? nah. Doubt it too!
Maybe it is the media that keeps you going.....
John Edwards is the best candidate running – he has the strongest platforms on important issues like the economy, the environment, healthcare, and foreign policy. The media has decided that the race between Hillary and Barack is more interesting to cover – it will sell more soap...and since people seem to go to the television for advice and actually reading policy positions seems too much work for most people when deciding who will lead this country – we, unfortunately, have a two-way race.
Unfortunately, I don't think that Edwards has a chance of getting the nomination – and I don't think he wants to be VP. He has said, repeatedly, that he wants to be the voice of the people. I think he is accomplishing that, as evidenced in the debates. Edwards' staying in the race serves the vital role of keeping the other two "honest" or at least bringing the focus back to the issues occasionally. He should stay in it until the convention, absolutely. I think he has an important role to play, and I am proud to support him.
I hope a great big one. We need him desperately.
If I were John Edwards, I'd take my delegates to Obama hope to be his Vice President. Edwards has already severely struggled in his Executive Branch ambitions, and I think supporting the one candidate that could never win a general election would only hurt his own career: that candidate being Hillary Clinton.
If this goes to a brokered convention and the majority are denied by wheeling and dealing, there are going to be a lot of pissed off people.
Bow out gracefully
John Edwards has the real opportunity to be a "conscience" for his party. The childish antics of Hillary, Bill, and Barack make it clear that this race is begging for an adult. John Edwards can be that adult starting today by shifting his campaign from a "run" for the presidency to a "walk" for every average person that he so tries to identify with. Frame the issues carefully and clearly. Offer the truth about what it will take to address the issues. Then hold the children accountable for their mischief. At that point, John Edwards becomes a statesman. And an influence at the convention, because he goes there as a real voice for people like me and my kids and my country.
If we are lucky the Democrat conventioneers would decide that John Edwards is the best choice to lead America out of the mess that George Bush and his puppeteers have put us in and repair the divisions created by past politicians and this primary.
Edwards is the pretty boy "ugly duckling" of the race, and will use his delagates as bargining chips. With Edwards ratings falling, and Clinton and Obama playing tattle-tail with potential endorsements, this "bargining power" doesn't seem to be all that valid.
Sorry...., John who?????????
Can you spell vice president?
John Edwards is like the Bunny who can never stop going. He is at best hoping for a Vice President spot, and hows no real affect or power in the election anymore.
Edwards will get the VP seat on the democratic ticket. That's his power. Barack Obama should start talking to Edwards now.
He's wasting his time. He should have donated all his campaign money to charity.
Kingmaker/Vice President sounds good to me.
a Spoiler.... and what a good choice for the people of the USA
Edwards role, will hurt the democrats as a party. By continuing to take delegates away from the top two he is dragging on the primary. The democrats will only have 8 weeks to wage a national campaign. If super tuesday gives the country a republican candidate, then the democrats need to be soon to follow, to be able to compete nationally.
What role will he play? That of glorified megalomaniac. He needs to drop out so we can have a choice between the only two with a shot of winning. Give me a break...who does he think he is now, BOSS TWEED???
i dot know but maybe he would accept the role of vice president??
John Edwards is trying to get onto the ticket as the VP the same way Huckabee is trying to get on the Republican ticket as VP, simply by hanging in there and not making enemies, or attacking his counterparts childishly.
He should be vying for Attorney General, could you imagine having an ayyack dog like him running the justice department? Republicans wet their pants at the thought of a trial lawyer with subpoena power.
Jack, John Edwards would swing his delegates toward Obama. Of course, he will get what he has wanted since 2004. Edwards will become our Vice President.
Jack,
if it comes down to a "broken" convention do not be surprised to see Edwards leave Denver the nominee.
All I have to say is Attorney General John Edwards in the Barack Obama White House.
Senator Edwards talks my "language" and "issues" but the corporate fascists would never allow him to be elected, even to the VP position. America desperately needs someone such as John Edwards, but it is "too late" to save the American dream, we are experiencing a downward spiral as a result of incredible short sighted greed! As Senator Bryon Dorgan stated, "Corporate greed and brain-dead politics have sold out America!"
Edwards will sell his votes to Obama for a seat on the Supreme Court. zb
Jack,
John Edwards will be Oboma's vice president and we can close Billary chapter for good.
I believe Edwards when he speaks of his desire to help the less fortunate. Unlike some with a cause, Edwards has a significant number of delegates. That puts him in a position to demand that whoever wants to win gives his cause serious support.
Isn't it obvious? He's lost two primaries now, and figures he can run as VP again! It's disgusting, if you ask me. Somebody who "fights lobbyists" is going to be playing the same game, except this time it's delegates and not cash. As for who get's his delegates, I think it's in the air. He seems to lean towards Obama, but he and Hillary DID have that 'secret' meeting.
As an Edwards supporter I hate to say this but his role would be the same as many Democrats – namely to let us all down. The process is supposed to be about the voters selecting the nominee not having the nominee chosen by PACs, lobbyists, party leaders or other candidates!
If we are lucky John Edwards will be the nominee. He is the best choice to lead America, and if the media (yes this includes you, Jack) wasn't part of big business and threatened by John he would have gotten better treatment from all you talking heads.
Its obvious that Senator Edwards is upset about his failed campaign in South Carolina and is using desperate strategies lately. His recent claim that he has risen above Hillary and Obama is ridiculous and lets face it, he only has the white male democratic vote. He needs to drop out so that he does not affect the convention; giving Americans a fair and real democratic way of electing leaders.
We've already seen one political figure destroy their credibility this year (*cough Bill Clinton*) and looks like we will have another.
Senator Edwards, get out while you can still save face.
His political career will be over. Democrats and voters will be so irritated with his shady politics and complete waste of their time that he will lose the little support that he does have. He is obviously trying to nose his way into the white house, either as president or as vice-president. The man obviously has no chance and his obstruction of the voice of the people will destroy his popularity.
Who cares? Either Hilary Clinton or Barack Obama is going to be the next president unless Ron Paul wins the GOP primary. A pro-war candidate cannot defeat the Democratic nominee. The GOP cries for endless war to its own certain defeat.
Artus Register,
Clearwater, Florida
John Edwards may want to do to the Democratic National Convention what Mitt Romney has done to many American companies – Act the part of the Leverage buyout weasel who intends to steal as much loot as he can or bankrupt the system in the process.
John Edwards' role "I give you mine if you promise to make me Attorney General". You know people on the ground in South Carolina witnessed Edwards and Hillary holding private talks without Obama. The bartering has already started.
By the way "ninny" means a fool or simpleton, someone who is ditsy or someone devoid of critical tinking skills.
Senator Edwards wants a role in administering government. Not being privy to his thoughts, I have to believe he will not be satisfied with any job less than Attorney General. Whichever of Senator Obama or Senator Clinton makes that offer will get his support at the convention.
I've got two words for you Jack, corrupt bargain. Edwards is going to wait until the convention, throw his support behind a candidate, and then be made vice president. Henry Clay did it in 1824 and Edwards is looking to do it now.
Long live the king-maker! Perhaps he'll be able to get in writing (he's a lawyer after all) that there will be no new nuclear power plants, that the tax loop holes for Exxon et al will be closed, that we'll have truly universal health care, and maybe the bottom 90% of the population will once again be able to escape the specter of poverty.
Elaine in Missouri
John Edward is a voter manipulator. He's taking away Obama's vote. Never too late to decide his fate. He's at the cross-road. I think he must decide to twirt his votes for Obama.
Considering Obama and Edwards have tag-teamed Clinton in the past, and along with Edward's continued Insistance that both he and Obama are the "Change" Candidates, It seems likely to me that if Edwards were to be put in the position of King (or Queen) maker he would side with Obama for leverage within any possible Obama administration. A consistant showing of more Democrats voting against Hillary may give Edwards the power to make or break an Obama ticket.
Graham, Asheville
Kudos to John Edwards for trying stick it out, however much of a fool he will be making of himself. The man would be smart to use his delegates to his advantage, and watch Obama and Clinton duke it out for those delegates!
John Edwards will drop out before the convention and endorse Senator Obama. Thus, making it possible for Obama to become the next President. Remember, you heard it here first!
It is clear that Edwards want to be a King-Maker, not a Queen-Maker. Throwing his support behind Obama and in exchange John Edwards will be the V.P.
Except this time, unlike 2004, the Democratic Party lead by Barack Obama will win it.
I stood up for Edwards at my caucus and am an alternate delegate for him. I fully intend to go to the county convention. If other delegates fail to show, I get to take one of their places. Then I can caucus for Edwards there, and help choose more Edwards delegates, and, if I am one of them, to attend the state convention that will choose the Iowa delegation to the national convention. Some of the delegates who were new to the process may not have understood that it was only the beginning. The campaigns and media packed up their tents and moved on, but we have not finished yet. I am proud of Edwards for staying in the race. He is forcing the other two to focus on the real issues. I am sure he would not accept the VP spot again. I want him to be the President, but if that does not work out, Secretary of a revitalized Health and Human Services Department would be a great spot for him in the new government.
He's oviosly running for VP with Obama but with the Rezko arrest it will become harder for him to take this route so he might start flirting with Hillary to get the job.
Edwards is clearly the unwanted stepchild of this race. Instead of packing his bags and going home, he wants to force the little bit of support he does have on the rest of the party by playing the king maker role. The only problem with his plan is that this is an un-normal primary election, as Bill Clinton has proved old tricks and games don't work anymore. Edwards, do the party a favor and GO HOME!
If the Democrats wind up with a brokered convention Edwards will use his delegates to secure him the Vice Presidential slot by backing whomever will name him VP. Remember, Edwards has been campaigning for President for 10 years and will happily take the VP slot for any Presidential candidate with the hopes of becoming President in 8 years. If both Clinton and Obama indicate that they will name him as their running mate to secure his delegates and the nomination, he will pick whomever he thinks will be most electable in November.
Jack,
John Edwards would play the role of the spoiler. He'd spoiling the party for the powerful corporate interests that fill the campaign coffers of both Democrats and Republicans. If his social and economic justice platform is heard at the convention, if he pulls either HIllary or Barack to the left he'll have won a victory for all of us that still want to live in a democracy.
Hal
Astoria, NY
Hello Jack, The republicans have two of the best candidates possible. Obama and Edwards.
I think Edwards should team up with Obama and go for it together. I think Hillary would make an exceptional Secretary of State.
Edwards will bring back the "We the people" influence into the White House. with Edwards as President, Vice President, or a Robert Kennedy like Attorney General he will fight for mainstream America. A great combination is the charisma of a Kennedy like President in Obama, strength of a very strong woman in Governor Sebelius, and the "We the people" Atorney General in Edwards. Talk about diversity. First black, and woman in the White House, and built on diversities integrity.
John Edwards is the only man with integrity in this race. I think he could run this country and change Washington politics as usual for ever. I think if he does have delegates he should give them to the one of the other two candidates who promises him either the VP slot, the head of the Department of Justice slot, Attorney General, or any other slot he desires. He is a true man from the people, and for the people, who more than anyone running has defended the middle and poor classes against big business and all the special interest groups. Personally, he needs to define his policies more and hit the country hard. He truly was the only adult at the last debate and that gained my respect. Right now we have the Clinton duo, the Obama nondefined and unexperience and a McCain, who is a Bush wannabe and will care more about war and terrorists than the problems in this country.
Jack,
Edwards will play the Kingmaker. Did anyone thing that he might get out of the race to become the Vice for one of the two. If not I hope he leans towards Obama. I rather vote for a Republican then vote for HRC. Knowing nothing will get done since so many people on the hill dislike her just like me. Obama brings real change, not change from 1992-2000
Joseph
Gautier, MS
What will happen if John Edwards stays in and the race makes it to the convention?
Edwards will be able to focus either Hillary or Obama's platform on the issues that got Edwards his delegates: poverty and health care.
People are liking what Edwards says in the debates, they just don't feel he can become the democratic nominee. (According to CNN's own election coverage, and debate focus groups). This means that they like the issues he stands for. Therefore it is in the interests of the American voters that Edwards stays in the race.
It's obvious what's going on jack. Remember when Hillary and John had that "secret" meeting at the end of the S.C debate? Well that meeting was the beginning of a coalition that will make Edwards the vice president, and give HIllary his delegates.
Plain and simple. Just wait and see.
His role will be a super, super delegate.
Edwards is the only one who has not split the party. If either obama or clinton win then half the party will either vote republican or just stay home.
Edwards hasn't made the enemies inside the party. if you have a brokered convention then he makes the most sense and best chance to win.
Jack I don't appreciate your tone towards John Edwards, Senator Edwards humanitarian and public service has been heroic, you know nothing for sure about Edwards not winning so stop pretending to be something your not you do commentary not political analyses, not like I don’t like you but I see no reason why John Edwards can't win as a result of this, all of this clinton and obama division can prompt him to victory at the convention and he will restore the values lost under Bush and through this glamour nomination process but either way Edwards will move on, which is why I will be voting and continuing to support John Edwards. Thanks
Jack,
John Edwards will either be a perennial Vice Presidential candidate or an excellent Attorney General hopeful. One way or another he deserves to be involved in the next Democratic administration.
Jack,
John Edwards is staying in so the top two candidates don't forget the middle class or the working poor. He will address the issues that apply to these groups and give his support to either Clinton or Obama, whomever he feels can do the best job implementing his message. I'm betting on Obama.
Tom Boyd
Hawthorn Woods, IL
His (Edwards) role at the convention would be that of most hated man in America!
He should be vying for Attorney General, could you imagine having an attack dog like him running the justice department? Republicans wet their pants at the thought of a trial lawyer with subpoena power.
He could provide the ultimate say in the race vs gender panderings of the news media. Will the white dude back the black dude or the white wo-man?
I had hoped that Edwards would have performed better during this so-far interminable nomination campaign. Obama represents the future, our future hopes and aspirations–however his age and experience level argue in favor of deferring that future. At his age he could "wait" as long as 16 years and still be the hope for our future. Clinton, quite frankly, represents the status quo of politics–that and nothing more. Clinton's gender and Obama's race are both irrelevant. (I would have far preferred a Nancy Pelosi as the "ground-breaking" female candidate–she's done far more to earn it).
Edwards, to me, represents the forseeable future of American politics and Executive level government–the forseeable future of sorting out the mess that the newly elected president will inherit and will have to resolve in order to move the United States forward domestically and internationally, economically and constitutionally.
No, I do not believe that Edwards is "running for VP" as other commenters have stated–he's "been there, done that, got the t-shirt". However I can only HOPE that he can either win or somehow be a compelling influence in the policies, politics and platform of the coming convention and election.
He should play the role of the Democratic Nominee. John Edwards is the only candidate that anyone who considers themself a Republican or Independent will vote for overwhelmingly.
Here's a scenario, why does no one realize the only thing carrying Obama is the younger generation and African Americans? Those 2 groups will not be enough votes to give Obama the nomination in November. As bad as this sounds, minorities will vote for whomever becomes the Democratic nominee....and if the younger generation and African Americans will already vote for Edwards, Clinton, or Obama, (and they will), why not nominate the candidate that can carry a large number of independents and Republicans? The only choice is Edwards.. plain and simple.
The national media never pointed out that Edwards would have taken TN and NC in the south during the 2004 election if he was #1 on the ticket . When put as #2 to Kerry, the South didn't vote for him because we didn't like Kerry.... it had nothing to do with Edwards not being able to carry is home state...I wasn't gonna vote for Kerry regardless of who he had as his running mate.
This election is NOT over, and the rest of the nation needs to make a big statement for Edwards next Tuesday. Considering how much he's been ignored in this election, I think he's doing extremely well.
It's unfortunate that Edwards couldn't win this, maybe if the media had given him or the other more qualified candidates in the race equal time in coverage, than Edwards and Richardson would be the front-runners today. But I guess a persons race and gender seem to matter more than a candidates qualifications and ability to win an election. Oh well, can't teach and old dog new tricks, maybe Edwards won't be the king, like you Jack have made it clear, but he can still be the co-King, or Vice President...You never know...
Gee Jack when you all in the media stop worshipping at the church of Obama maybe some of you will ask why the "change" candidate is attracting all of the old school democrats? Ted Kennedy and his like represent the "New thinking" of the Democrats. Why are none of you pointing out that the only candidate running who is actually activating concrete changes that are substantially different from the rest of the candidates is John Edwards? Obama speaks eloquently about the change we all want but he's not the one saying he wont give a place at the table to the special interests. Some of you should try actually reading the candidates position papers to see who is advocating real change in how the government does things. In all the important areas the real change candidate is John Edwards.
John Edwards has two roles to play in a brokered convention, depending on what happens with the 89% of delegates not yet pledged. 1) He will become the nominee, or 2) He will make sure the Democratic party addresses the problems of corporate control of the democratic process and the plight of the more than 25% of U.S. households with an income of less than $25,000 a year, and the additional 25% of households making $25-50,000 a year. Yes it's true folks, massive inequality does characterize the U.S., and that massive inequality has been created and sustained since 1980 by *policies*. Which candidate of either party will stand up for the majority? John Edwards.
Jack, simple, Edwards will be needed to help clean up the convention center after the nomination. can we just flip a coin? it worked when I was a kid.
Believe it or not there are people (some refer to us as "common" or ordinary") who think that he is a viable, very capable candidate. We aren't being heard because we are working longer hours to compensate for the good paying union jobs that have gone overseas or the corporations continue to buy out. Have you done any correlations to the very poor coverage your network is giving him and the election outcomes. People who want to count need to vote! Some of us can think and decide for ourselves and not let CNN and the other networks make our decisions.
Jack,
I voted this morning in Florida for Edwards, knowing my vote doesn't count and that Edwards cannot win. Why? He is still out there running, speaking out passionately on serious issues that need to be adressed. The nastier the frontrunners become, the saner and wiser Edwards sounds. He was the first to come up with concrete proposals on many issues and as long as he is running his voice will be heard. I think it's great that he is continuing the fight and I hope he does have a strong, passionate and definitive role at the convention! I'm mad as hell about my vote, or lack thereof, but at least I know Edwards will be my voice.
Jack-
Edwards knows that he won't win he is bargaining to become the Czar of Poor People for the eventual nominee.
Jack,
Edwards is in a position to be chosen Vice-President. I still think he is the best candidate for President, but he can wait eight years while Obama tries to heal the country. He'll be in a position to determine the winner at the convention, and he will. I don't have a lot of faith in the America public - the statement "the masses are asses" is really true (which explains why Bush was elected for a second term), and Obama is really a candidate based on emotion rather than practicality, but, again, Barack is way better than any Republican. Obama/Edwards will be a winning ticket.
Paul
John Edwards for Attorney General - Watch out corporate America!!
It's simple Jack. He's positioning himself to be the Vice Presidential nominee. A ticket with both Hillary and Obama is highly unlikely leaving Edwards as the logical choice for VP. Unfortunately, the best candidate (Edwards) is not going to win the party's nomination leaving him to best position himself for the next best thing.
This leaves the larger issue that is that sizzle and headlines drive the votes, not the quality of the candidate. Mr. Edwards has been the only candidate that has actually been able to deliver details on his position. Ms. Clinton and Mr. Obama have only delivered sound bites and pointed attacks at each other. He is also the collective consceince of the party, whose message can not and should not be ignored.
Jack, Edwards is trying real hard to be a vice president again but he upset too many people this time around. Obama got so upset with Edwards he asked Ted Kennedys to be his vice president.
Guess who is going to be Obama’s Secretary of State – you guessed it Rev. Jesse Jackson. There is only one fly in Obama’s ointment and that is no super liberal from the Democratic Party has ever been elected President....
Jack,
It is a test of character. When things get tough, people telling you to give up, or when the odds are against you, how do you respond? John Edwards is a fighter. He would fight for every American. It's too bad the media picks our canididates for us. I believe, just like Martin Luther King III, that John should continue to give voice to the voiceless. As King III said, " So, I urge you: keep going. Ignore the pundits, who think this is a horserace, not a fight for justice. My dad was a fighter. As a friend and a believer in my father's words that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, I say to you: keep going. Keep fighting. My father would be proud". I completely agree, your father would be proud. GO JOHN GO!