Should Clinton drop out if she loses Texas & Ohio?
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, appears at a campaign stop at the Waco Convention Center in Waco, Texas, Friday. (PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
There's a growing number of voices saying Hillary Clinton should get out of the race unless she can deliver big victories tomorrow in Texas and Ohio.
Governor Bill Richardson, who hasn't endorsed anyone yet, says quote, "I just think that D-Day is Tuesday", adding that whoever has the most delegates after tomorrow should be the nominee.
Some top Democrats who have backed Barack Obama are making the same argument. Senator John Kerry says Clinton needs more than narrow victories to stay in this thing.
And Senator Dick Durbin says the delegate math makes it tough for Clinton to win the nomination. He says, "I just hope ultimately she makes an honest appraisal of her chances… I hope that her decision on her future after Tuesday is made in the interest of unity of our party."
But, Senator Dianne Feinstein says Clinton should ignore the pressure to quit the race, that she has every right to stay in it if that's what she chooses.
And if you listen to Clinton, it doesn't sound like she's going anywhere. She believes she'll do "very well" tomorrow and will then move on to Pennsylvania and other upcoming contests, adding "I'm just getting warmed up."
It looks like her campaign is also trying to raise expectations for Obama, saying that if Obama loses any of the four contests tomorrow, that would mean Democrats are having second thoughts about him.
Here’s my question to you: If Hillary Clinton doesn't win both Texas and Ohio tomorrow, should she quit the race?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Wendy writes:
I am a feminist, but this time I believe that Hillary should do as her husband says. If she wants to appear gracious, she will drop out. If she wants to stay in and try to claw her way to the nomination, it will be ugly and do damage to any future she may have in the Senate. Sometimes you just need the judgment to know when it's over.
Michael from Danbury, Connecticut writes:
She should recognize that the only way she can get the nomination is if it is stolen from Obama by the superdelegates. At that point, the party will be split. I will either vote for Obama or for McCain. Never for Clinton.
Vilma from San Jose, California writes:
Of course she should stay in! Otherwise she is surrendering to the string-pullers in the backrooms. And, this election will depend in good measure to what is going on in the world: domestic economics, world de-stabilization and wars, etc. I am inspired by Obama's words but nervous about his naivete and non-specifics. It will take courage and straight talk to deal with what will challenge us from outside our shores. Hang in there, Hillary.
Cheryl from Cocoa, Florida writes:
Hillary doesn't seem to understand, but this is about change for regular Americans. As an Independent in Florida, I am prepared to vote against any incumbent running in any election on my ballot. Hillary's (and McCain’s) experience just looks like the same old thing that got us into this mess. I am ready for change, and will vote that way in November.
Lil writes:
The last time I checked, the required number of delegates of 2,000+ had not been reached by either Obama or Clinton. She should continue her campaign. This is still a "live" contest as far as I am concerned.
Cee writes:
Yes, she should quit if she loses either Texas or Ohio. She's moved the goal posts so often she could get a job with an NFL ground crew.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
No, she shouldn't give up, not unless there are major losses. People finally have a voice in every corner of the country and their votes finally count. Let them speak!
Yes, it's over.
Yes she should Jack. She does not have the numbers to win and is only handing the election in November to the Republicans by remaining in this race. While others can ignore the math experts, many do realize that she is out of time and only damaging the Democratic Party by staying. She will also then have to deal with the fall out of going back on their word. While i have no doubt that Bill Clinton would like to take his remarks back, pertaining to the race, that particular cat is out of the bag and he only reinerated what the experts already know.
Hello...I live in Jacksonville, North Carolina and I am a Republican. I believe Hillary should remain in the race for President even if she loses the votes in Texas and Ohio. I am a firm believer in having a choice on each party ticket..I am not sold on Obama...I am not sold on McCain either. If I had a choice right now I would vote for Hillary..She is the best choice of the lottery right now..Believe me I hate to vote Democrate...but the Republican party does not have a viable candidate for me this year....I don't want any party selecting the candidate for me..By the way..do away with the super delegates votes..Ervin Perry (Retired)
Jack, with out a doubt. I know deep in my heart that IF OBAMA was in Hillary's positon, he would for the good of the party bow out after tuesday if he did not win by wide margins; that is a person of character and one that believes in the voters and the party. He would also call upon all those that voted for him to vote for Hillary. Bill has also acknowledged that senerio and stated her run would be over. Seems Hillary has gone back on that and now intends to continue to the bitter end. Hmm something wrong with this from my perspective. I would also add that if she does not win by wide magrins of at least +15 to 20% she should back out. She needs to completely eliminate Obamas lead to positon herself for an ultimate victory, other wise she is just dragging it out which will cause the Democratic Electorial College to make the final decision. That will cause the Democratic party to collaps within. OBAMA has managed to create such a large draw of new voters that anthing that does not recgonize those voters will more than likely cause the party to self destruct again.
Yes, It would not even be a question on the race going on now if Obama had lost 11 strait contests. The Democrats would be clamoring for him to leave the stage. The Supers would start shifting to Hillary in Groups of 10. So while the Clinton Campaign is whining out there for one reason or another about the Press being at fault, maybe they should think about the fact the people are also speaking.
Yes, she should quit if she loses EITHER Texas or Ohio. She's moved the goal posts so often she could get a job with an NFL ground crew.
No. Just like todays new NAFTA battle, Obama could slip up in a bad way. If people see that Obama is telling them what they want to hear with no intention of following through, then his campain could start to unravel. Super Delegates could start to ralley around Hillary Clinton and keep her alive in this race. She doesn`t have to try to sink him. If she hangs around long enough, he will sink himself. That is what Mike Huckabee is waiting for. Although unlikely, at any time all of these candidates take the risk of political destruction every time they open their mouth.
Yes Hillary should drop out, it is time to say enough. It is so hard to listen to her negative attacks on Obama she brings 35 years of negativity and bitterness to this race and people are tired of it.
In the wise and profound words of Robert Francis Kennedy and I quote" Progress is a nice word. But change is its motivator, and change has it's enemies." end of quote.
Hillary is now the enemy and it is time to let hope, optimism and progress take over.
From Canada
Hi Jack,
I think that Hillary should not, NOT drop out of the race if she loses both Texas and Ohio, look at what's happing on the other side, for months people have been saying that McCain will get the nod, but looks whos still there, Mike Huckabee and Good ol' Rob Paul, so no Hillary should stay in the race. that's what I think, but what do you think Jack?
Hillary can now afford to stay in until Florida quite possibly does its primary over again.
Here is my question – The State of Hillay's Union:
When Barack Obama talks about love and caring our level of faith in his words may well stem from our belief that he is in a "real" and loving relationship with his wife Michelle. In stark contrast to that is a vague and unsettling feeling that Hillary and Bill Clinton's union is less like a loving marriage and more like a political business partnership. The Clinton's, it seems to me, to have been sending a "It's none of your business." message that I just don't think that works or sells. Does a happily married candidate make voters feel a stronger sense of trust in the candidate?
Jack,
Heaven NO. Until the required delegates are reached, the contest should GO ON. No one knows what might happen: the American people might come to their senses and realize that Senator Obama is a made-up character for Hollywood; OR, Senator Obama might come to his senses and ENDORSE HILLARY (THE BETTER CANDIDATE) ...
Burt...
Absolutely not, as more and more comes out about B.O., people are going to rethink whom to give their support to. Let's not give the Republicans another cake walk!
While Barak Obama would have to be awakened at 3 am, Hillary Clinton wouldn't need to be.
She's probably still up at 3 am, wondering where Bill is.
Quite frankly I am tired of hearing and seeing both these candidates. Yes, Hillary should drop out if for nothing else, at least to keep the Democratic Party unified. I also think she should drop out if she does not win those states by large margins. If she does win by double digits in both states, I hope that the party can sit down and work together for a solution and we will not have to wait until August to get our candidate. It would be a shame to have McCain campaigning for President and the Democrats have not even settled on a candidate.
Why should people nail the lid shut on Hillary's campaign before it stops breathing..... and, By the Way, talking about it only gives potential voters the idea she is all through before the campaign is over... I grant you, her campaign at this point seems to be pulled along kicking and screaming by Hillary's persistance and energy... You could say she has taken the "g" out of the word "campain" NEVER THE LESS, please give her a break and let HER be the "decider" in this one.
I AM a very enthusiastic fan of hers even though my vote was disenfranchised by Howard Dean. (Florida Voter) grrrr. ( HE is another whole subject for a question in the future. ) from Mary in Sarasota FL.
Yes. She should start mending fences and get the best political minds behind Obama to help him in any way they can. We simply cannot afford to lose this election. We need a grand plan to not only include the Presidential race but every Senate or Congressional seat held by a right wing conservative as well. He'll need those votes to accomplish his plans, and for that to happen we need everyone on board and everyone on the same page. The sooner the better.
I would like to know why Barack Obama is always refered to as the first African American running for President? When actually he is the first Bi Racial American to run for the presidency
Jack,
Clinton should give up if she loses either Texas or Ohio. She wouldn't want to be seen as a "Huckabee Xerox!" Now that I've written to this blog numerous times, be a good sport and send me a copy of your new book for crying out loud.
Jack,
Why does Hillary's mandate for kindergarden for 4 year olds never get mentioned. This would raise everyones taxes 10%(in states with property taxes that support public schools other states would have same impact but financed differently). People are just listening to the speeches and not looking at details on the candidates platforms. Wake them up you do this so well.
I am a feminist but this time I believe that Hillary should do as her husband says.
If she wants to appear gracious, she will drop out. If she wants to stay in and try to claw her way to the nomination, it will be ugly and do damage to any future she may have in the Senate.
Sometimes you just need the judgment to know when it's over.
If Hilliary doesn't win Texas or Ohio she needs to consider and say to herself," I feel that that I have climbed my last political mountain. " We have to do more than just elect a new President if we truly want to change this country. She will probably tell herself, as she lies awake in bed at night, what did I do wrong; and a little voice will answer her saying it going to take more than one night to answer that.
Not only does she need to win but she needs to win huge. She need to sufficiently close the pledged delegate gap. The democrats like both of the candidates and those who support her say they have no problem supporting Obama. The problem is that many of those who support Obama would not support her.
As I see it this could hurt the democrats and send many over to McCain in the general election. If she is truly sincere that she cares about all Americans and the party we will certainly know the answer by the end of the week if she has a poor showing.
Ann, Charlotte, NC
Hillary doesn't seem to understand, but this is about change for regular Americans. As an Independent in Florida, I am prepared to vote against any incumbent running in any election on my ballot. Hillary's (and McCains) experience just looks like the same old thing that got us into this mess. I am ready for change, and will vote that way in November.
Actually, if she doesn't win by a large enough margin to give her a significant delegate lead, she should do her party a favor and drop out so that we can then begin focusing on the general. At the moment she is only giving ammunition to the Republican Party in the General.
Even if she doesn't drop out, I believe that the super delegates will coalesce around Obama and make the decision for her.
Yes, because she fought the good fight and it's time to wrap this thing up. So that we can start gathering money to use in order to beat the Republicans and their right wing extremist followers. We need to become a country of hope and peace again. Only with an Democratic President, this will be possible. Sylvania Ohio.
If hilary loses both contests, she should absolutely drop out. At that point Obama would have a overwhelming lead. I think if that happens Hilary should get the message, democrats want change not the same old Washington politics shes been a part of. Hilary should conceed and put her full support behind Senator Obama so the Democrats can present a united front, and focus on beating McCain instead of continuing to fight with each other.
Jack, Hillary definitely should bail out and save the money for 2012 when she will run again, and Amy pohler can be her running mate,and Loren Michaels can be her campaign manager.chuck Indiana
I think she should only drop out if she loses both Texas and Ohio. Both are big states, and she normally wins big states.
If she loses both then that suggests that Obama has stolen what's left of her dwindling mojo. However, if she wins one big state, along with another small state (Rhode Island or Vermont), then she still has a little fight in her left. Then, Obama can go for the kill in Pennsylvania.
Here's my question to you: If Mr. Obama doesn't win both Texas and Ohio tomorrow, should he quit the race?
Mary Jo in Chicago, Illinois
Yes. If Clinton does not win both Texas and Ohio, then it will mean that she can not succeed in getting the majority of ELECTED delegates. If she then continues her quest for the nomination without a majority of ELECTED delegates, she either fails (but does damage to Obama), or she obtains the nomination through a tainted process and sets up a scenario for millions of Democrats (like this 57 year old life-long Democrat) to pass on voting in the Presidential race in November or worse, to vote for McCain.
Of course not! She is more relivant than Huckabee, Paul or Nader and they are still out there. Let this play out and maybe we might get someone out of that convention that all Democrats can vote for. Hopefully it won't be either one of them!!
I think if she wins Ohio and loses Texas by a small margin, she should go on the Pennsylvania. If she loses there, she should quit. She's not that far behind on delegates and I think one last ditch effort would not be that bad for the party. Anyone else would keep going. She's fighter not a quitter. Everyone is so critical of her.....give her a break already. Sheesh!
No Jack, all voters should be heard and all votes should count. Many states have not voted in the primary yet and thier voices should be heard. Hillary should not quit because the race is very close. Obama did not quit when Hillary was ahead in delegates. Eventually the news media might pick up on Obama's connections with Rezco & Ayers and other shady characters and the voters might realize that Obama is only a media creation.
If this campaign is her last run for the White House, she should stay in the race. Otherwise, she should bow out gracefully on Tuesday. It’s good sportsmanship, and in the long run, a smarter move.
Jack,
Sen. Clinton's campaign has changed their message continuously throughout this process. Even though the message from her own husband just 2 short weeks ago was that Hillary couldn't become president without wins in both Ohio and Texas, now the message is Obama needs to "sweep" on Tuesday just to remain a viable candidate. I'm getting motion sickness from just trying to keep up with all the spin! I think that if this continues, the Democratic Party does stand to suffer, especially if the past 4 days of negativity is any indication. If Hillary stays in and continues to stray off message, get ready for 4 more years of the status quo.
While it's technically true that Clinton has the right to remain in the race for as long as she wants, at some point even she needs to acknowledge the difference between the national interest and her own self-interest. If Obama wins both big states on Tuesday by even 3-5 percent, it will be next to impossible for Clinton to make that up mathematically in the races to come, and at that point she really ought to put her ego aside and accept that she simply isn't what Democratic voters want.
It's a free country, so she should run as long as she wants too. One problem, though: By throwing the "right wing" playbook at Obama (ie, playing the media conspiracy card). Her damage to Obama will cause the Superdelegates to look hard at mitigating any further damage to Obama. She can't get to the nomination without about 60-70% of the remaining unpledged delegates, including the superdelegates. As the right wing always said about the Clintons, they'll do anything to win, to include destroying the Democratic party's chances in November in order to save ther own skin!
Hillary will get out when the time is right. No one, not even Hillary, wants to be known as the Huckabee of the Democratic Party.
Jack,
She should quit if she fails to win either one, not just both. The math is against her and instead of ridiculing Obama for the charisma she lacks it's time she started supporting his message of change. Also, if she does concede shortly after the primaries tomorrow I promise to revise my opinion of her and give her more of the credit she probably deserves.
If Hillary Clinton does not win both Texas and Ohio by large margins, she should take her own husband's advice and call it quits after Tuesday. She has lost the last 11 contests in landslide elections. If she can't win these states, she's toast. Polls are even showing her lead dwindling in Pennsylvania lately. The national gallup poll shows Obama's lead widening across the country. If she doesn't quit soon, she will be looked at the same as Huckabee for the GOP.
She should drops out even if she loses just one of them. If she is not able to win both of these states, she will not be able to win the nomination. By staying in the race all she will be doing is hurting the democratic party by causing Obama to still focus on the nomination rather then start pre-paring and campaigning for the general election.
Bucks County, PA
Sure, on the surface it looks like an open and shut case. But do we really have enough information to make this decision? Maybe we don't know all the facts. We are talking politics here and it is not uncommon to have secret deals made in the political arena. We kid ourselves when we think this is only about the delegates won by each campaign, that is only what we see on the surface. It may be a long time before the Democrats have a candidate and it may not be a bad thing.
I believe she has already stayed in too long. I know it must be tough to take a "hard" look at your real position. She has lost 11 straight contests and is losing (apparently from the polls) the very large, double digit, leads she has held in states where she should do very well. If she loses either Texas or Ohio I believe she should drop out so that the Democratic Party can unite behind its candidate. I also think that is will be difficult to continue with the look of legitimacy after Bill Clinton came out and said that Texas and Ohio are must win for her to continue. If she loses one or more of those how can she go forward after a statement like that?
I'll say the same thing about Sen Clinton as I've said about Gov Huckabee. The only person that gets to determine when they're done is the candidate. The math makes it difficult for Sen Clinton to win and impossible for Gov Huckabee, however, both of them are entitled to continue the race as long as they feel able – and can afford to do so. I must admit though the situation in both cases reminds me of a chess tyro playing against a grand master and defending his king with those last two pawns right to the death. Well, maybe Sen Clinton has three pawns and a rook left.
Jack, as lifelong Democrat, with only a few experimental votes to the Republicans, I can only hope that Hillary will do what is right for the Dems after Tuesday. Not only is she pulling the party apart and giving the Republicans ammo for the National Election, the Clintons are driving down their time in the White House. What we remember as good times for the Democratic Party in the 90's is becoming overshadowed by the dirty politics of this campaign. Hillary, I loved your tenacity back then but you are at risk of becoming a leech on the party. Please bow out gracefully!
Why in the world would she drop out!? She's the more knowledgeable of the two Democrats and I believe more knowledgeable than McCain. Obama keeps saying he did not vote for the war. Well, he wasn't even there to vote on the invasion. As far as that goes, Clinton and the rest of them did not vote for the war, but for a hard line with Iraq. Bush took it to mean he could do whatever he liked with their votes. And as to Bush, isn't he the guy that everyone just loved and thought he was just the nicest fella, a guy you could have a beer with? Doesn't that sound a lot like Obama? And both of them want to change the world. Come on, people, having had Bush for two terms is enough for me in a lifetime. I'll go for experience and know-how...not hoping that being a nice guy will fix everything. As to advisers, look what Bush's advisers did. Hillary, don't you dare back out! People might wise up yet. The election could be far different than what we've seen heretofore. Go, girl!
Yes, of course – even Bill Clinton thinks so. This year the Democrats were blessed with 2 strong candidates, but Barack Obama has more universal appeal, pulling in Independents like myself. But if Obama doesn't win Ohio and Texas, this blessing becomes a curse for the Democrats and divides them. The more Hillary "fights" by ranting, the more divisive and unpleasant she becomes. The Democratic party should intervene for their own sake, as well as the rest of us who wants to give Barack Obama a chance to provide our country with the quality of leadership our country needs to tackle all of our foreign and domestic troubles.
I'm no fan of Romney or his platform, but I have to admit that when he pulled out of the Republican race, he showed grace and class.
Hillary runs the risk of loosing (more) grace and looking like someone who is more interested in self-promoting than the actual direction this country takes in the end..what is best for her party, and her country.
If Hillary doesn't do well in tomorrow's primaries, a class exit with grace and sincerity may do her well to come back in four years. Lack of grace, or even worse–looking like a poor loser, may seal any future runs she could possibly have left in her career. It could also hurt the future democratic race for the Presidential. McCain is already focusing on the general election.
Hillary Clinton should stay in the race regardless of any adverse outcome come Tuesday's election. She is a strong candidate. Obama and Clinton have similar messages, resulting in style over substance as the significant factor in this race. Granted, the ability to inspire is no small thing, but one needs to be clear as to why one is inspired. Hillary needs substance to inspire, if not style ...she needs to further emphasize her experience of smart decisions and clarify her direction as distinguished from Obama.
I must confess that I am an Obama Supporter but I still believe she has every right to continue if she chooses. No matter who the candidate may be, it takes extraordinary courage to stand in front of an entire Nation and run for this office. I do worry, however, that an ongoing (and increasingly hostile) dispute could very well dampen the enthusiasm of the young voters that are showing up in droves. This is something we have waited for decades to see and to undermine that now would be a tremendous loss for all of us. Hopefully it will be settled tomorrow and we can move on.
I don't think she can drop out. Jack, Obama has won 11 elections in a row, and outspent Hillary 2 to 1 in Ohio, and he's still behind in the Ohio polls! Yes, he's getting support from uninterested voters or independents, but he's still not speaking to the base of the party. If he can't win in places like Ohio or Florida, we're just handing the election to McCain in the fall.
He has won 11 contest in a row. Translation, she has loss 11. So, should she get out? Yes. He keeps meeting and exceeding camp Clinton's expectations, and she has yet to meet or exceed anything besides fund raising-which by the way he also beats her.....Regardless, I was all for her staying in but this moving the goal posts and so much spin is just silly. So not only will I vote for him tomorrow, but I will caucus for him tomorrow evening. In fact Jack, if I have to be at the caucus site for 3 days straight, then so be it. She should know when to throw in the towel for goodness sakes.
No , I live in NC we have not even voted yet , she needs to fight hard to the end this is a true hero's way of fighting , it is all or none – this country is worth it and we need her,
Yes – she should drop out if she does not with BOTH Texas and Ohio. The ONLY thing Hillary is doing right now, as of recent, is providing the Republicans material to exploit Obama in the general election due to her negative ads she just released. Hillary might feel as though she is winning the battle...but she is losing the war for the Democratic party and the countless independents and Republicans that are supporting Obama.
If she overstays her welcome more than 1 day after losing either Texas or Ohio she will be equivilant to that houseguest that just won't leave.
Chris – Alpharetta, GA
Why should she get out after Tuesday when she can be dubbed the Mike Huckabee of the Democratic Party? We can all see how well thats worked out for him. I suppose something is better than nothing though. But in all seriousness, I was originally a Clinton supporter until the way her campaign began conducting around the time of South Carolina. And then was completely turned off when she began talking about why the superdelegates should overrule the will of the people. She just comes across like she is more interested in the Presidency for herself rather than for the people in this country. Barack Obama comes across as the opposite.
Hillary Clinton should not quit. She is the only real choice for Democrats, the only one with the background and experience for the job. As she says – she will be ready to go to work on day #1. Unfortunately, Obama just does not have enough experience – let him try again in 4 years.
If Hillary does not win BOTH Ohio and Texas tonight by more than 5% she needs to drop out of the race. Sometimes, it is not about personal ambition, rather the importance of your values. The more Senators Obama and Clinton fight for the nomination, the less likely a democrat will be in office next year. If she truly believes in improving health care, the US standing around the world, and other issues treasured by the democratic party-she will end the race.
If she doesn't win with substantial margins in both Texas AND Ohio, Hillary should most definitely sit down. All that's happening now is a tremendous waste of campaign dollars as democrats fight each other so they'll be worn out for the upcoming GOP fight. Hillary has already proven to be yesterday's news.
If Hillary stays in the race she will be helping the republicans in November. If she really loves this country like she says she does, she has to drop out of this race to give the democrats a chance to win the general election.
I don't see anyone pressuring Mike Huckabee to get of the race. He's not even within striking distance to claim the Republican nomination. Why the double standard??? Could it be Obama supporters are afraid that the Rezco trial (beginning today) and NAFTA gate could tarnish Obama and hence point to a lack of credibility or judgement???
Yes. Hillary Clinton has mounted a respectable campaign and sharpened the debates, but it would be time to step aide and allow the will of the people to be realized. Further rationalizing and excuses would only be self serving and harmful to the effort to reclaim our country and our image in the world.
Polls as long ago as August of last year showed that she never had a chance of beating the Republican candidate. All she is doing is hurting the chances of the Democrat who can. In politics as in real life, you have to know how to lose.
Is Obama going to get out if Hillary should win Texas and Ohio tomorrow? I have no doubt he would take this all the way to the convention, regardless of tomorrow's results and Hillary should do the same.
Chris
No she shouldn't. Neither candidate will have enough pledged delegates to win the nomination even if one candidate carries all the remaining states leading up to the convention. Both campaigns hopes rest on the will of the automatic(super) delegates.
No. It's not her style to give up. It's one of the many things that make her great. There is absolutely nobody more "right" for the incredible task ahead of the next president. Go Hillary!
She should stay in the race until it is statistically impossible for her to win. When and if that time comes, she ought to hang it up and throw her support behind her party's nominee. Seems fairly obvious to me.
Hillary Clinton should stop the negative direction her campaign has headed and drop out of the race if she does not win all states tomorrow. She needs to consider the greater good of the country and the unity of the democratic party. I was a big supporter of hers until her campaigning took such a shrill nasty tone. I am from Texas and I recently decided to vote for Obama instead of Clinton.
I think Hillary Clinton should make her own decision on whether to stay in the race or not, even if she does not win.
However, if her plan is to continue to try to tear Barack Obama down with the openly dirty political tactics that her team has used, then she should get out before she ruins her own legacy and her husband's along with it.
As parents we teach our children to be graceful winners and respectful losers. Right now those lessons seem to be lost on the Clinton campaign.
If she loses, should she drop out? Only if she wants a Democrat in the White House come January of next year. The best case scenario for Hillary win, lose or draw on Tuesday is that she stays in the race, trailing Obama by 100-150 pledged delegates all the while and then 500 of the nearly 800 super delegates go her way in Colorado. Hillary may stick it out til convention and come away with the nomination, but if it comes to that she cannot win the Presidency. No Democrat could at that point.
Frankly, the Clinton camp is so stubbornly searching for a way to make her the nominee if she was going to drop out she would have done so by now.
Clinton has every right to stay in as long as she wants and continue to undermine and destroy her party and its inevitable nominee.
Then when Senator Obama loses– a result of being weakened by a split Democratic party and enduring attacks from all sides– his young, independent voters more cynical and demoralized than ever, and surely no longer in the Democratic camp...she can say, "I told you so."
Then she and Ralph Nader can go on a "Don't Blame Us" tour together.
I've said this before . Hillary still thinks its politics as usual and she is not reading the hand writing on the wall that she running against a movement and not a politician like herself. She needs to be experienced enough to know its time to quit and let the party come together.
Given that momentum has been such a huge component of this race, even narrow victories in Texas and Ohio by Senator Clinton could change the political landscape in the Democratic party. Love it or hate it, the media likes sensationalist stories and a Clinton comeback provides quite the story line. If you buy into the media influencing the election, you can be sure that even narrow Clinton victories will be viewed as a chance to continue the exciting storyline of this primary race.
She should drop out for the best interests of the party, and for her own best interests. If she leaves now, she can still run again in 2012 if McCain wins the general, or in 2016. If she fights this thing out on a national stage until the convention - a fight she has no chance whatsoever to win - her chance to ever become President will be finished. In this day and age, you only get one opportunity in the spotlight, and I don't think it makes any sense for her to take hers here. It's over. She needs to move on if she ever hopes to move forward.
I support Obama and I don't believe she should "have to" quite the race. She has every right to stay in it.
Overall, I think it's great that we have two very strong Democratic nominees. As a former Republican, I've called over a hundred neighbors to please support Obama and I've probably emailed another hundred. I've seen Democratic interest in this election continue to grow across the country not only because of Obama's calll for change and his ability to unite all people but also because of Clinton.
This means Democrats will stand a much likelier chance of winning in November due to all the new voters we've generated and the excitement that continues to build over getting rid of Bush's failed policies. I love it!
I am an OBAMA supporter, but I don't think she should quit the race. I believe every state should have their primaries and caucus then if none of the candidate have the delegates needed, the superdelegates should vote for the person with the most popular vote and the most delegates.
THAT'S THE FAIR WAY TO DO IT.
OBAMA 08
no, she should stay in till someone has the 2025 delegates needed to win. otherwise this should go to the convention. there is a system in place for dealing with close elections. why should she forfeit just because it doesnt look good right now?
if hillary loses both texas and ohio, she should drop out.
if hillary wins both texas and ohio tomorrow, obama should drop out.
keevan d. morgan
chicago, illinois
I am not a Hillary supporter, and I have switched to a declared independent as opposed to Democrat. Despite this, I feel its up to Hillary to decide when is right. She still has extremely large amounts of support among the country (although one of my problems with her is that she probably has just as many who adamantly despise her and could be polarizing). President Abraham Lincoln was not at all assumed to win the Presidential race of 1860 but on the night of the party convention he managed to secure the nomination. I don't believe Hillary is anything close to Lincoln, but as long as her support doesn't dissolve she always has a chance, especially seeing as how Obama is considered untested and could still trip over his own feet. If every uncommitted delegate and "super delegate" was to switch support who knows what could happen.
Jack, why should she get out? Obama hasn't won yet. If the people would really concentrate on the issues,they will see that Hillary has the best ideas and soultions. Obama is a good speaker, but that is all.
He is just a media darling.
The man can't even do the job that the peolpe of Illinois elected to do as their senator. And he wants to lead this great nation? Do we as a nation, want that kind of individual as our president? I think not.
To use a word from Bill Clinton, it all depends on the meaning of the word "win". She should quit if she either lose both states or loses one of them by a large lead.
No I don't think Hillary should drop out, especially if she losses Texas by a narrow margin. At this stage in the game I still think they are evenly matched and the delegate count is not past the point of no return for her.
Personally I think Obama's luster is slowly eroding and Democrats are going to have to take another long hard look at the hype.
Justin
Dear Jack,
It seems to me that Hillary is creating the famous Democratic circular firing squad. She is dividing the party. I am a Democrat who would rather vote for John McCain than to vote for a Clinton return to the White House. Let's please have an honest debate between Obama and McCain. Enough with the primaries. Seven more weeks to PA . . . yikes.
South Dakota
Hillary should drop out. Can't she understand that the country has had enough of the Clintons and the Bushes and their old-Washington politics? It's time for change, so let Obama take his rightful place and get the country united and moving.
No way should she quit. I mean this like one of the reality shows on MTV or VH1. Contestants are all "Why can't we just get along" when face to face then try to bad slant on your record to show why the other guy wouldn't be the best choice. I really don't know whos going to win the nomination but its almost hilarious listening to the retoric they are spouting.
I think those who are saying tomorrow should be D-Day desire for the Democratic Party to be united after a long and hard-fought primary season. The longer the democrats duke it out, the more time Republicans have to launch attacks and unite under John McCain. The Democrats want a front-runner as well. There is a lot of excitement generated by Obama ... a lot of voter turnout. Indications are that turnout would not be as high, nor would there be as much excitement surrounding Hillary. I was in college in 1992 when Hillary came to my university to campaign for her husband. He was seen as the new guy, coming to bump out the old guard. Much like Obama is today. Funny how this has come back around.
I am a 57-year-old white female who voted for Bush in the 2000 election, the only way I could find to show my disgust with the way the Clintons (plural) embarrassed and demeaned the country during their reign in the White House. I am now an enthusiatic Obama supporter. If Hillary wins the nomination, I will join the millions of other Americans who will instantly lose their enthusiasm for the Democratic party's candidate. Character really does matter.
Am I the only one who senses a "you owe me the job" attitude from Hillary? Every time I hear her speak I get the same feeling. Well, I don't "owe" her anything. Let the numbers speak...and she doesn't have them.
No way. The race is still very close. There are many things that could happen prior to the convention that could tip the results to her. She has come this far she should not be a quitter at this point just because some people want party unity.
Jack
The time has come for the Democrats to have a clear nominee going into November. Whatever happens tomorrow, Obama will still hold a significant lead in the delegate count. Furthermore, we have seen a significant reduction in Hillary's lead over the past week, a clear indication that as people get to know Obama, they more they are drawn to his candidacy.
I understand that the media and America are having a field day with the Democrats selection but the GOP is cementing their base to fight the Dems. Hillary should do herself and the pary a favor and endorse Obama on Wednesday morning.
I think that Hillary's campaign is a sinking ship and the desperation is obvious. She had big leads in both Ohio and Texas just a few weeks ago and now Obama not winning any of the 4 states is a big win for her? I think there is a big groundswell for a new kind of politics in America. Obama may not be the most experienced person running, but where has this so called experience gotten us lately? An economy going into the tank, a congress that is more concerned with baseball than the future of America, and a reputation around the world that hasn't been lower in our history.
Hillary does not have the numbers but it does not look like she will give up easily. She is tearing the Democratic party apart and chances are that Obama supporters will never vote for her given the negative ads she has run! In the end it seems that Obama's strategy of not going negative on Hillary may have been too noble – does not work!
Jack, I think if she loses both Texas and Ohio, she should drop out. But if she wins Ohio and Rhode Island (or Vermont), she should fight on. In a way I feel sorry for her – if she continues the fight for the nomination, she gets tagged as stubborn and egotistical. If she drops out, she'll be called a quitter. She's damned if she does and damned if she doesn't.
NO she shouldnt quit . We will need an alternative.The whole truth about Obamas realtionship to REZKO the indicted slum lord has yet to come out.When it does folks will realize they have been duped as its clear Obama does all the things he says he is against.NAFTA isnt the only things.Just google REZKO to see just some of the REZKO/Obama realtionship.
Hillary has and still does walk the walk. Obama just talks the talk and this will in time become clear and the Democratic party will need to turn to Hillary.
If the tables were turned and it was Obama, I believe he would make the right judgment call and get out. Hillary doesn’t know how to make a good judgment call because when she had the chance to do so on the Irag war, she didn't get it right. Her so-called experience is only about winning at all costs.
Woodbridge, VA
There will be a point at which it will be mathematically impossible for one or the other to win. At that point, one or the other should step down.
Mike
Manassas, VA
Tomorrow, when both Ohio and Texas will be holding democratic primaries, could be Hilary Clinton's last day running for the democratic nomination. Clinton recently said the she is "just warming up", indicating that she may not be ready to drop out of the race even if she does not have a win tomorrow. While she certainly has a strong following and has not been blown out of the water by Obama, primary season has been almost excruciating to watch as the two democratic hopefull have advanced their race into March. This could be potentially damaging to whoever does get the nomination. McCain has had this extra time to exploit the weaknesses of his future competitor and will continue his campaign tour after taking the weekend off. Clinton and Obama, meanwhile, are still taking shots at one another and exposing one another's weaknesses . If Obama wins tomorrow, Clinton should realize the bell has rung and that she should step out of the race.
no i don't think she should drop out. if she should i will vote for mccain. she is the only chance the middle and poor class people have. who in their right mind would vote for obama
Clinton should not quit. We need a strong person to lead our country in these global times. Obama has no experience and his words are shallow. He also is beginning to sound boring with his "non-answer " responses
Seeing as how I live in Oregon and we don't get to vote in the primaries until May, I want Clinton to stay in the race to keep it interesting.
Jack,
A resounding YES! I would offer that unless Ms. Clinton wins both Texas and Ohio by HUGE margins, she should get out. I would hope that for the sake of the party (and the country) she would gracefully accept that she is not the right candidate for the times. Obama has shown that he can both inspire and lead and has the judgment needed to allow America to move forward. Hillary would do well to become a team player and support him. I'm sick of listening to her whine. If she is having such difficulty handling this, how in God's name would she handle being president and the pressures that come with that?
Although I am an adamant Obama supporter, I think Hillary should not drop out unless she wants to. I think that competition up the convention is healthy, as it gives both candidates time to grow. They've only been in the primary race for three months now, I think a few more months of campaigning is necessary.
It shouldn't take a "bad" day for Sen. Clinton to leave the race, because unless she scores a couple of blowouts in Texas and Ohio, she will still be behind in the pledged delegate count. And after all her shenanigans–such as trying to game the system to take delegates from Michigan and Florida; marginalizing Democratic voters and caucusgoers in every state she doesn't win; trying to reframe the rules in Nevada and Texas at the eleventh hour; and feeding misleading media narratives about a fellow Democrat–she doesn't deserve to be the Democratic nominee, especially not courtesy of unelected superdelegates.
No – Hillary shouldn't give up. The Republicans have been backing Obama and they're just waiting for Hillary to bow out. They've got an arsenal of Obama dirt to unleash and they'll be running plays right out of Karl Rove's playbook. They'll attack Obama on every front: marital issues, his middle name, lack of experience, business dealings, questionable contributions to his campaign, etc.
Also, once Hillary's out of the way, you can count on a national security issue to come up between now and the election. Stir up the pot, make sure that people are plenty scared.
If Hillary bows out, we WILL have a Republican president.
Hillary should stay in all the way to the convention. I suspect she's going to win big in OH and by a smaller margin in TX and will probably win in PA as well. It's finally a horse race and the media is looking hard at Sen. Obama. Let's finish the primaries before we write off either candidate. Lot's can happen between now and August. I say let the voters decide, not the media who seem to want to write their own narrative, probably because they can reduce the cost of keeping so many reporters in the field.
Elizabeth, Arlington, VA
Jack, it's refreshing to have two qualified democratic candidates, and the more we learn about each one, the better informed our votes will be. Neither Hillary nor Obama should bow out. It ain't over 'til it's over!
Clinton should drop out if she loses either Texas or Ohio. Obama has already won more delegates, states and votes and has had to overcome the Clinton machine. He obviously is the future of the Democratic Party and the nation and after Tuesday it is time to move to the national campaign.
The race will still be tight whomever wins tomorrow!
The American political system won't be much of a beacon to the world, if the primary election gets 'called' before the remaining states have their vote. If Hillary is forced out of the race, a lot of states will have disenfranchised voters, whom never got a chance to have their say!
Why are so many pundits so anxious for Hillary to be out of the race? I'm a Democrat from Pennsylvania, and I am leaning toward Obama; but I would like to see a competitive race carried into our state in April. It seems that all of the talking heads are practically frothing at the mouth in anticipation of Hillary dropping out. Geesh! It's still a close race(1389 delegates for Obama, 1279 for Hillary at last count). Let the race play out for as long as it takes! I seem to sense some momentum actually swinging back toward Hillary(perhaps a little bit of Obamamania backlash). I think they are both in this thing through every state....pundits be damned!
Senator Clinton should stay in the race. Senator Obama may have victories, but the majority of them are not major, only narrow margins. With tag-along Huck staying in the Republican race, who can rightly say Clinton should drop out when she's not as far behind as he is? By the way, I'm an Independent from Marietta, GA and I plan to vote for McCain.
Since when are we to expect any politician to do the right thing for either their party or their country. 90% of the politicians in this country spend 90% of their time making sure they are re-elected. If Clinton loses both Ohio and Texas the rationale thing to do would be to step aside. I wouldn't want to make book on that happening.
Jack! First let me say i really enjoy you on the situation room. As far as Hillary, I will say this, she should make up her own mind as to whether she stays beyond Texas and Ohio. I would hope that she realizes the importance of this election and do what is best for the nation. The dems need to retake this country and make sense of things once again.
diallo
Although I detest the negative advertising of the Clinton campaign, I don't think she will (nor necessarily should ) pull out after March 4th. I think she'll make Obama a better campaigner, prepared for the Republican slime, and hopefully he'll hit McCain with a lot more stuff than Clinton, whose policies were more similar. I'd like Clinton to get out gracefully at some point for the good of the party (as well as the American people which she loves to invoke in her own cause), but I don't think they'll do it until the majority of super-delegates make her see the impossibility of her cause.
Yes. Since the Media has refused to do any investigating of Senator Obama's background, he has gotten a free ride since announcing. If I were Hillary and Bill I would do what Joe Lieberman did to the Democratic Party when they snubbed him. I would support the only Qualified Candidate, besides Hillary, John McCain. Isn't that what we want our Politicians to do, do what is best for America rather than for a Political Party?
Ken Moulton
Moultonboro, NH
I am a staunch Clinton supporter, but I truly believe she would be hurting the party's chances in Novemebr if she loses Texas and Ohio and does not withdraw from the race. Hillary's chances in the Presidential contest were dependent on her ability to not only unite the Democratic base, but to have a strong showing among independents. Obama's support now equals Hillary's among the Democratic base, and his numbers are overwhelmingly better among independents.
The current version of John McCain, which is little more than "Bush Lite," would be a disaster for the country. It is time for the Democrats to unite and begin to build on Obama's momentum.
No, I don't believe that Hilary should give up even if she doesn't win on Tuesday. At the moment I believe that folks are siding with Barack because he is saying what they want to hear – everyone wants change and something to believe in. Many of us are struggling and discouraged with the economy. I don't believe that Hilary is any different from Barack in wanting change, but she is providing more substantial and specific ideas as to how she will address what needs to be done – it isn't necessarily what everyone may wish to hear. However, it's unlikely that Barack Obama can deliver anything better, especially since he is less experienced than Hilary. What he has to say and what he will be able to deliver are most likely two different things. In the next six months folks will probably become more realistic and the majority of Democrats will swing back towards Hilary when Barack's speeches get old – his messages seem to lack substance and specifics as to how he will accomplish all he alludes to. All this and I'm a registered Republican! I truly like John McCain and his straightforward and honest appeal, but may very well vote for Hilary anyway – she is more aggressive and cuts to the chase, not trying to win the popularity contest. like Barack. Women seem to just try to get the job done.
No- Hillary shouldn't drop out of the race until the Democratics of America have chosen who they wish to represent them. It's naive to think the Democratic party will swell up and explode if she remains. That's just tactic from her rivals and utter ignorance if anyone actually believes it.
Where is all the talk of Obama dropping out if Clinton runs the table on Tuesday? Last time I checked they were pretty even in the delegate count. It only makes sense to ask Obama to drop out if he doesn't carry Texas and Ohio since Clinton will have a lead.
Among other things, stick a fork in her.
Jack-
For the good of the party, yes. But the more Democrats are willing to continue to battle, the less professional and more bitter the fight gets. If Democrats want to watch a fight then fine, she can stay in and take it all the way to August. If she is hell bent on wining the super delegates and not so much the popular vote, I would say she is a total hypocrite.
Al Gore didn't win the electoral vote and conceded the presidential election. The Dems were furious for months, so why aren't they as furious at Hillary Clinton for attempting essentially the same type of election within her own party? Is this more of do as I say, not as I do?
No matter what good or negative qualities she has, if the Democrats who vote choose Obama, right or wrong, the decision stands.
No! I agree with Rany Porter. If she sticks around long enough, obama will sink himself. I don't think she should drop out. I feel that Obama isn't being real. He is running on a dream. His speeches are like that of a preacher! We need someone who is real! let's get back to reality now! We need someone qualified and he isn't. Hillary is qualified. She should not drop out!
As an Ohio voter I would have been disappointed if either of these two candidates had been omitted from my ballot and I couldn't at least consider both of them. So just as I'm glad they both persevered beyond and despite Obama's recent string of victories, I wouldn't want me and my fellow Ohioans to be responsible for disenfranchizing our counterparts in later states, which wouldn't be fair.
Unless Hillary captures 60% of the delegates on March 4, it's time for her to bow out in the best interests of the party. It would be mathematiclly impossible for her to win the nomination if she breaks even, so why prolonged this any longer? The Democratic Party cannot afford more commercial time of ill will. It's just helping their Republican opponents prove their points, and it will come back to haunt them in the Fall campaign.
Tuesday will be all the proof we need that Barack Obama will be the Democratic nominee. At this point, she's really just spinning her wheels. She really should just take one for the team; after all, she'd never win against McCain.
Obama 08
Absolutely NOT... Why does the media keep trying to pull Hillary out of the race?
If you look at CNN's own polls, even if Obama wins in Texas and Ohio, the delegates will be split between the two candidates and he will not even be close to the 2,025.
Let the country speak on who they want for their President.
Not,this is America, It is about time for the American people to see deep in the candidates credentials and see the diferences between a great eloquent speaker and a qualified candidate
As much as I would like this thing to be over. It's up to Senator Obama and Clinton to decide when. Not you, not me. My fear, the longer this goes on the higher the vitriol on both sides will rise. So in the end, the democrats will once again snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.
No Hilary should not quit,.
If Hilary is not on the ballot
some people will be amazed at the votes McCain will recieve.
Hillary Clinton has a huge support base and it is being overshadowed due to the media love affair with Obama. We have been turning out in large numbers and that is for both candidates. We are forgetting that she did crush him in Florida, where his name was on the ballot. She beat him by 400,000 votes. If these delegates are seated the contest changes and she leads. If all comes to come seat Floridas delegates, and hold a cacus in Michigan. The outcome will be the same, she will crush him. I will personally vote republican is obama is the elected democrat. She will win tx , oh, and ri on tomorrow. Even if she looses there will not be enough for either person to reach the needed number. She will carry our country. If not there will be alot of new republicans come Nov time.
I think Hillary will bow out if she loses either Texas or Ohio, but let's be realistic here: she's only indicating she'll stay in to give her voters some faith until tomorrow.
Once the results are in after the polls close, it will be a new ball game for each campaign to put their respective spins on.
She should definitely hang it up. While some people think it would be nice to hop in the wayback machine and revisit the nineties, the reality is, this is the 21st Century. There's no going back. We tried going back to the fifties with Ronald Reagan and that's partly how we wound up in the mess we're in today.
Yes Jack, she should. Of course she is in denial and does not see how her hanging on is going to affect November, so she will soldier on. Even if she loses Texas and Ohio she will take it to the convention, fracture the party, then point the finger for the disaster at everyone except herself. As a Democrat, I feel sorry for her.
Yes Jack, but she won't. That is she won't lose Ohio, and by hook or crook she will get the nod from the dems; and I for one will not vote in the general election if my choice is McCain or Clinton. thanks,Brian in Ohio
Yes, I think she should remove herself. Let's face it if you have to start slingging mud you know that you are on your way out. And frankly that really makes me want to vote for the Obama...even though that is where my vote is already. We Democrats need to start working harder to get the White House back and less at slingging the mud!! Otherwise lookout the "Bush" clone will be running the place still...
It is time for Hillary to concede defeat and move on gracefully if she has got any intention of saving whatever is left of the Clinton legacy. This campaign has exposed her distinct lack of authenticity. The last few days have also shown how low she can stoop to occupy the Oval office which she feels is her divinely sanctioned right.
Jack:
As a Democrat who has suffered under the current administrations destruction of our liberties, reputation, and standing in the world, I implore Senator Clinton to rally behind Obama if she doesn't win all four contests by at least 20% each. Numbers less than that simply says she hasn't made the sale.
No, Hillary should not drop out. Huckabee on the other hand should.
Sen. Clinton is expecting the end soon. To that point, her own campaign is expecting a shut out in all of the four states from Sen. Obama claiming that if he doesn't win all four; she's still in the game. Her camp is just hoping that she can survive tomorrow.
As the self annoited Democratic Party Nominee at the start of this race,
Hillary has rested on her laurels and for 11 primary/caucus losses in a row, is in a state of denial and shock. This is well evidenced by the rash of negative ads and mockery of Barack Obama
Unless she wins big in Texas and Ohio, she and Bill should just give up on the dream of the continued Clinton Dynasty.
Oh. And by the way,"At 3:00 AM in the morning, does she know where Bill is?"
Jack,
She should drop out if she loses either one. Even if she wins both you must look at the delagate count to see if she has realistic chance of catching Obama given there will only be about 600 delagates left to capture.
Eugene, Oregon
Hillary won't stop until the convention. By the time she drops out the Democratic party will be as divided as ever and her campaign will have torn down Obama so badly that there won't be anything left for McCain to do but stroll through the White House doors. Take a seat, because we're going to have to endure 5+ more months of her negative ads, attacks, and flat-out lies.
No, she should not drop out. I think that she is far more qualified than Obama to be president. I also think that it is presumptuous on Obama's part given his lack of experience in national politics thus far to run for the presidency. The big problem with Hilary is all the negatives she generates (fueled, albeit, by less than favorable coverage in the media). I wish that the Democratic party had a better candidate to offer. But it doesn't. I don't believe that Obama, in any case, has the political skills to unite Republicans and Democrats as his fervent supporters claim.
The party leaders asking either candidate to step down "in the interest of party unity" puts those leaders in the elitist position of deciding the nominee for the voters who have not yet had the opportunity to vote. With no final decision yet made about Michigan and Florida, why should Senator Clinton make a decision to step aside? Giving up to an empty-shirt is no way to go out.
As a lifelong Democrat, I long for another liberal landslide 1964-style! Then again, I long for another LBJ with a strong domestic agenda and an ability to wrangle Congress. Let Hillary be Hillary. And let the voters, for once, decide!
DJ
Austin, Texas
It depends on what she cares more about. Unifying her party or her ego. It's really as simple as that. If Hillary has a bad day tomorrow, many highly placed Democrats will call for her to quit so that the party can rally around Obama and put the necessary steps in motion to figure out a plan to stop McCain, who has essentially been the GOP's nominee for almost a month now, regardless of Huckabee. The longer a political party has a presumptive nominee, the better their chances of winning the general election in November. However, Hillary obviously has a strong drive to succeed, otherwise she wouldn't be running for president. She will not quit easily, and I believe, will continue to run, nurturing her ego. At the end of the day, the delegates will probably be close to a 50-50 split, and Hillary will continue, although I believe she should quit, to bolster the party's chances. Unfortunately, it looks like this thing is headed to the national convention and the will of 794 people versus the will of 300 million Americans.
Jack, If there is a chance that she has an opportunity to become the nominee she should not drop out....I noticed CNN reported that Putin hand picked his successor...well the U.S. media has hand picked our presidential candidates by showing favortism toward Obama & McCain...
Depends on which Clinton is going to speak. If it is "I am proud to be with Senator Obama Clinton, then she will quit. If however it is "shame on you Obama Clinton, she will hang on.
I am a Hillary supporter, but I am also a realist. If she loses either Texas or Ohio – it's over. For the good of the party, let's get behind Obama, focus on the general election and take the White House for the Democrats. If she stays in, it will only divide the party, waste resources and damper the excitement that has embodied the democratic race so far.
Brad
Austin, TX
Absolutely not! She has as much right as anyone else to stay in as long as she wants. I have never been sold on Obama and I will not vote for him if he is the Democratic choice. I don't like McCain either! Without Hillary in there, things will not change. They will stay as GWB as left them!
No! I think she has a good chance of pulling this thing off. Obama has managed to get this far with his pretty speeches, but I think Americans are finally starting to see that he hasn't really given any clear answers as to where he stands on anything. At least I hope they have.
Jack ... you're going to make yourself sick if you keep your feelings all bottled up like this. C'mon, hon, let it all out ... tell us what you really think about Hillary.
Jack, it's real simple. When one candidate gets 2025 delegates it's time for the other to concede. Not one minute before.
Why should she give up – it's still virtually neck and neck with many races to be held – I live in Indiana – why can't my vote be counted. Perhaps if the media had been doing their job and scrutinizing Obama's positions as they have Sen. Clinton's... you've coronated Obama and the race is not yet over. If it goes down to the convention floor, so be it – those are the rules.
If HIllary loses by wide margins, yes, she should drop out. But if the delegate count remains as close as it is, why not let the nominating convention do what nominating conventions used to do in the days before the media declared the nominees.
There's no reason to quit if the delegate count is still within reach, regardless of whether she wins the two big states or one. If she loses both however, it will be a knockout blow by Obama and a sure reflection that the people do not want Hillary to be the next president.
If Barack lost the past 11 in a row to Hillary, they would already be pressuring him to drop out. I'm sick of hearing that Barack is getting special treatment by the press. The press should be saying what a long shot Hillary is already and as a life-long democrat, I would not vote for her if they do give her the nomination.
Yes, it's over!
Jack,
After loosing 11 consecutive states, it's past time for Hillary to drop-out of the race. No matter the outcome in Texas and Ohio, Hillary should still drop-out of the race, because it's impossible for her to catch up now.
She needs to stay in and keep fighting.
Yes-if she is interested in having the Democrats win in November-but she is a politician interested in her own future. We have seen this over and over-with the Clintons. Everyone should read Tom Brokaws "BOOM" to get the perspective. This is an identical repeat of the '60's when the party tore itself apart-out of self-interest.Quite sad, really, because the opportunity for a great leader is there-in Obama. AND, the young people ,at last have someone to trust. I say SHAME on Hilary.
Yes, absolutely. Each day she stays in the race and the delegate gap widens, the party suffers. Should she lose tomorrow, and If she has any decency left in her, she needs to face reality and do what's right for the party and for the country by graciously stepping down.
From Southern California:
Regardless of what she "should" do, Hillary cannot drop out. The Clintons aren't in it for the world, the country, or the party. They're in it for themselves. Fighting on keeps their hopes up, and keeps them in the news - the only place they've ever wanted to be.
Only Hilary could conclude that because she wins one contest out of fifteen, that is a Democratic mandate for her to push forward. For a campaign of inevitability, she is sure trying to manage expectations. I have a suggestion for her: instead of wasting money on primaries, drop out now so Obama can focus his fundraising prowess on John McCain instead. If Hilary wants to continue running, let her engage Mike Huckabee in a war on futility.
No, I think hillary should stay in the race. It too close to call.
Also, its only now that Barack is getting some scrutiny. I am from Chicago, IL. I used to be a BIG barack Obama fan, untill I looked at his records closely. He has not done anything for this city/state. all is energy goes in trying to sound "politically right". His Chicago home dealing are shaddy, he has taken big time favors from real estate owners.
We need a choice in this election. we need someone like Hillary who can get the job done.
Vote with your head not your heart...
sonal, Chicago
She's lost 11 in a row...Texas and Ohio, if lost, would make 13 in a row. If she loses (and who knows if she will), the writing is on the wall. At that point, if she doesn't step aside, I think the party would have to ask itself, just who exactly is HRC still running for?
Just FYI for M. Waring above, since 1977 the US has categorized "anyone with origins in the black racial groups of Africa" as African American. Barack would be first and foremost categorized as African American, since the percentage of his ethnicity derived from Africa is a non-issue.
If she loses both Texas and Ohio, and decides to continue her campaign anyway, she will be viewed in the media as the Democrats' Huckabee. Does she really want to be seen that way? That's not going to add to the "Clinton Legacy."
Clinto needs to read the tealeaves for the good of her party.
The democratic primary has become a tiresome process with little new information coming out in the past few weeks. MSNBC must have run the last debate 6 times - how much more can we stand?Prolonging the process is only going to fuel apathy - and in the meantime, Clinton and Obama going at it mano-a-mano in an increasingly acrimonious manner can only serve to delineate in fine detail the weaknesses of each - much to the delight of the McCain strategists.
I don't particularly like Obama and I very particulalry don't like Clinton. But, I really, really want to get off the playground and into the real debate of the national issues - so I can make an informed decision.
Maybe Hillary Clinton and Mike Huckabee can form a faith-based joint campaign.
Jack,
No, she should not drop out of the race. This is just nit-picking of what Barrak Obama will face from his Republican competitor, if he is the nominee. Why does anyone not want to see this play out? It's the rest of the country, whose vote has not been counted, that would be disenfranchised this time. Let the country vote...not just the elite few big states.
Linda Weiner
Hillary should stay in the race. There are to many negatives surrounding Obama. Most of the comments to get out are from men who are threaten by a strong woman as President. This situation reminds me of women getting the right to vote. Boys it time to grow up and support your wives and mothers....
Heavens NO. Stay in and fight girl until the last delegates decided. That's what Al Gore should have done in 2000, stuck it out until every vote was counted. Also, Daniel, what does a loving marital relationship have to do with anything?? Give me a break. We're hiring her to do a job not win a popularity contest or become prom queen. We've got serious issues that need to be addessed by a serious candidate with experience. The fact that her husband has the experience he does is just icing on the cake. Go, Hillary!!!
NO! She should not drop out. More and more of the truth of B.O. is coming out FINALLY. No thanks to the media that is for sure.
She needs to stay in because slowly but surely America is being told the truth about B.O. I just hope they can be awaken out of this trance they seem to be in. It truly is astounding to me the educated people who have not yet seen him for what he is.
He just is NOT qualified, just NOT. And this radical "reverend" he was actually being taught under, that really concerns me.
Some people say that she has every right to stay in the race and it's her "personal" decision to stay in or drop out. I disagree with that. The people have spoken on eleven different occasions that they want Obama to be the democratic nominee. Because of her "personal" decision to stay in, the money that supporters for both Obama and Clinton need to contribute will be completely wasted for primary, not general election. Why do we want this fight to continue for another 45 days until Pennsylvania or possibly more? If we truly want a democratic president, she needs to drop out so we'll get prepared for the real fight with John McCain.
Jack, I feel that this is just becoming drawn out for no reason. Hillary is banking on things that should not happen; i.e the seating of Florida and Michigan delegates and the superdelegates deciding the outcome of the race in her favor. She is not running for the good of the party, she is seeking to divide it for her own glory. The Republican party is uniting against the Democrats, and instead of being able to retaliate, we must watch Hillary fuel these inter party squabbles with her negative campaigning.
NO, Jack, I do not believe she should drop out. I think all states should get the right to vote for whom they want to elect.
She will determine when it is time for her to get out, she does not
need the assistance of the news media.
Yes, she should step aside and make room for the people, this isn't about the Clintons.
On another point, could Hillary give us one example of a time when she had to pick up the red phone at 3:00 am.
Aaron,
Georgia
NO
Would you be asking the same question of a different candidate? Why begrudge the process? Why is he being given this mandate!
Isn't it bad enough that the REPUBLICANS have already written her off since every time they discuss the MC-CAIN "contender" it is OBAMA?
They are trying to seal the coffin shut too! Why should we let them control another election! They don't want her to be the nominee..because they know SHE WILL MAKE THE DIFFERENCE.
Yes, I feel that Hillary should call it quits if she doesn't win Texas or Ohio tomorrow. I believe for her, the fat lady has finished singing.
I enjoy your program Jack.
Unless she's planning on backing the GOP she should. Already losing 1-2% to the Green party
Yes, her campaigns negative attack ads will only hurt the Democratic party in November against John McCain. If she continues after tomorrow, I only see more negative attack ads which again is the "Old politics" that reinforces Obama's position that change is needed in Washington. A perfect example that even though Hilliary Clinton is female, her politics do not represent change. I am a white, highly educated female, proudly voting for Obama.
Dear Jack,
I cetrainly do.
sincerely
John B. Edwards
Hillary should quit and stop her mantra on her experience. We all know that at best, every candidate, regardless of party, can only speak to those things they hope to do; only to have their hands tied by Congress or the Supreme Court. Their campaign platform is just their "wish list" – no more, no less.
If she loses Ohio and Texas. She should move a side and let Obama
save his funds for McCain.
Hillary should NOT drop out. She needs to be there when the media finally stops fawning over Obama and does their job and finds out who he is and what he plans. He has had afree ride so far and we need her there when less than wonderful things come to light about him.
First of all, she won't lose Texas and Ohio. NAFTA-gate will preserve her single-digits lead in Ohio and with Rush Limbaugh pressuring Republicans to vote for Hillary, she may very well carry the Texas two-step.
Secondly, no matter who wins it won't be by much, certainly not enough to significantly change the delegate gap built up by Obama in the month since Super Tuesday. Hillary will be in the exact same position Wednesday as she is today.
And that's where it shows that she and Mike Huckabee must use the same Huck-a-math textbook. Even if she takes Ohio and Texas by a 15-point margin (won't happen), she's still down by over 100 delegates. If they spilt the remaining delegates (she takes PA, he takes all the 'red' states) she'll still need over 60% of the superdelegates. And frankly, I just don't see that happening.
If it's very close, NO! Why do we have to choose someone right now?
Why should all of the millions who have voted for her allow people like you annoint King Obama and discard their vote. I think we need to let Pennsylvania have their say (I live there and I know she would win there). Jack, you are so transparent in your dislike for Hillary that I cannot watch CNN for more than a few minutes without becoming totally discusted in the bias against Clinton.
She should stay in no mater what. Some states moved up their election day and were punished. My native state (PA) did not and, were she to drop out, it would suffer the same fate as those who broke the rules (MI and FL). In addition, I think the GOP is anxious for her to quit since they see (probably correctly) that he is an easier candidate to beat.
Just say hypothetically, that his connection to the man now on trial shows some scandal. Then, it is best if the super delegates are free to go either way for what is best for the party during the convention. Besides, would it not be great for the young folks to get to see a convention which realy did something as we saw when we were young?
Ervin Perry's comments below make the best case fso far on why Hillary should stay in the race. Very nicely articulated......
No. She should not bow to pressure-people are looking for strength in any candidate. However, if she should lose by a substantial margin, she should re-evaluate her position in the upcoming weeks.
I support Obama, but Hilary should not drop out. This is something
she worked for. Why not go to the end?
Jack, Just think of how little you will have to say if Senator Clinton drops out of the race after Tuesday – you seem to have dedicated your entire being to bashing Senator Clinton, and even now ask a leading question like the one you seek a response. To specifically answer your question, no, Senator Clinton should not drop out. After Tuesdays primaries, there remain 600 +/- "pledged" delegates in upcoming primaries, plus there are about 300-400 automatic delegates. And, on top of that, don't forget that the caucuses to date have not been through the state convention processes, so who knows what the numbers will be in June. Add to this, Obama's "mo" seems to have hit a ceiling, and in fact based on some of the recent polling data, it appears Senator Clinton is recapturing some voters who had defected during the Obamamania frenzy – a frenzy the media encouraged and fed.
Gee, I hope she doesn't quit. The election would loose its only remaining entertainment value if she did.
No good can come from Hillary staying in the race at this point... In almost every state where Obama has spent enough time campaigning to reach a majority of Democratic voters, he's won, while Clinton wins solely on name-recognition in her electoral back yard, states where the results don't count, or states too big to cover in a few weeks. The only way she wins now is via a back-room deal that will destroy the party, result in a lost election, and enable a McCain White House. If only she had surrounded herself with people brave enough to be the messenger.
Hillary has the right to continue her campaign just as Obama has the right even though people criticized him in the beginning. You are not being fair if you do one thing for one candidate and not for the other candidate. Give Obama time to be like every other politician. You don't know how Obama will turn out. Also, humans are not perfect at making judgement. We all mistakes. Sounds like Obama is saying he has the best judgement and won't make mistakes. Funny!
NOT now we are getting to know the real candidates and the diferences between nice speechs and substance,Lets Florida to be count .remember ,Democrats lose two elections because of Florida?
Let the American public speak, each and every State has a right to be heard, not ignored as if their wishes are insignificant!
The present situation has a lot to do with open primaries which I feel are ridiculous. The Republicans had a lot to do with the way things stand right now. What do you think Karl Rowe's been doing, knitting?
The race is exciting, let it play out, let Obama be vetted in the eyes of America. We want no surprises down the road. I sure hope that God is not a woman – the mean Press 'Bama" heads will be in a lot of trouble!
Carry on Hiliary -it ain't over til it's over!
Priscilla in Connecticut .
From Ft. Worth, TX: Hillary should absolutely stay in the race down to the wire. There is nothing worse than being a later state in the primaries and the race being decided (usually by the press) before your own state's primary. Every voter should have the opportunity to vote for their candidate of choice and given how tight this race is, who knows what may still happen.
Of course she should drop out. For two reasons, Its best for the democratic party to unite and come together for a landslide victory in november, the longer she stays around the more she hurts her own party. The second reason is its better for the people she represents as a senator. I am sure the people of New York would love to have their senator back working for them instead of only coming there to appear on SNL, but Hilary has been known to stick to something when most woman would of let go.
This is of Mary Jo in Chicago, IL
If Mr Obama losses both states it depends on the percent he losses by . Ms Clinton must win each state by at least 65% percent of the vote to get the majority of delegates if they split the state 48-42 or 51- 49 they both will get an even number of delegates this would be like the Nevada race she won the state but Mr Obama received more delegates than Ms. Clinton . And since he is up in pledged delegate by 90 to 100 he will stil retain his lead .
I don't think Hillary should quit no matter what happens tomorrow. There's lots of time for Obama to make a major error between now and convention time. If Hillary quit, it would be tough for her to get back in this. I am a life-long Republican, after a brief fling when I served as Executive Secretary of the Conservative Party of Jefferson County, NY. But, I have a strong sense that America is ready to vote for anybody but a Republican. I shudder to think their only choice would be Obama. Or Ralph. For that reason, I want Hillary to stay in the race. Thanks for listening. Tom
Jack:
If people want to run for President and they put their name on the ballot in the 50 states, then they should stay in until the convention.
If they stop before all the primaries our over, it is not fair to the voters of those states to have a choice.
If it is so costly to run for office, I say have a one day primary for all the states and have a shorter time frame between primary and the Nov elections. It is way to long.
Of course Hillary shouldn't just drop out. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are very close in this race, but people like yourself in the media would have us all believe that Obama's just too far ahead and Clinton's way too far behind. Come on, Jack. This race remains very close and the more that comes to light regarding this 'god' you people have created in Obama, the more people will change sides. True colors have yet to be shown...
Yes, Clinton should drop out! She has already hurt the D. Party.
I will probably vote for rep.if she is the one who is nomiated. She is too despirate to have any confidence in.
Did McCain quit we he was already embalmed by the media? Did Winston Churchill quit during the Blitz? No!
I think Hilliary still has a tremendous chance of capturing the nomination. The old adage, "winners never quit and quiters never win", is still very much alive. To quite would be a gross short change especially for all those people that have contributed millions to her campaign.
Hillary should get out of the race now, the Obama Tide is running against her. Her campaign's recent negativity is something expected of a junk-yard dog whose back is against the wall, and is hardly representative of Presidential demeanor. If Sen. Clinton is really serious about changing administrations in the White House, she ought to support the only candidate who can beat John McCain in November, Barack Obama.
I'm female voter from McKinney, Texas. If Hillary doesn't thump Barack in both Texas and Ohio, we need her to go home. We must save our energy and resources for November and start to rally around one candidate if we want to keep the doomsday clock from striking twelve with another Republican presidency. Hillary, I love ya...but you've already got a job and a bright future no matter what tomorrow's outcome. Do the right thing for the country and your party: prove to the voters that you care more about us than your winning and step aside if you don't get the Texas and Ohio delegates.
if she continues her campaign with any thing less then major victories on Tuesday she is only hurting the party. I would say she could continue if she was'nt running such a negative campaign.
Senator Clinton doesn't strike me as someone who would be happy playing the role of "spoiler," so unless she has a miracle of a day on Tuesday, I don't think she should stay in the race - or would even want to.
Larry Portzline
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Hillary should drop out if she doesn't win a strong majority in BOTH states. If the tables were turned and Obama had lost 11 straight to her there would be no question. Further she has begun to damage the credibility of the Democratic party by calling on a change to the way Texas conducts its primary and caucas. She has become desperate and resorted to scare tactics to get people to vote for her (the red phone tv commercial). Hillary must bow out before what little honor she has left is spent on an already lost race.
Hillary should stay in if she wins BOTH Texas and Ohio. Obama is untested and I am afraid that despite the polls, where people are saying they would vote for Obama if he is the nominee, the real fact is that if he is there will be a defection to the Republican camp and the more moderate McCain will benefit. Lets hope Hillary can put this one out.
I don't think Clinton should drop out.
If she doesn't get the nomination, I'm voting for McCain.. and that's painful.
yes she should, but no she wont.....ego too big,
She can graciously become a supporter of the potential nominee, after tomorrow, or she can stupidly split the Democratic Party, and further divide the country.
It will be interesting to see what choice she makes.
Memo to "Billary": It's over guys!
Rigo
San Jose, CA
NOOOO, she should not drop out. Let's see what happens between now and November. I'm not a fan of hers nor would I vote for her at this time ...but I am also undecided about just who I will vote for. In the 'race" Hillary may very well be the tortoise txompared to Obama being the hare. Let's just enjoy the process as it unfolds. I think the campaigning lasts too long and by November or maybe it's already happened some voters may just feel 'whatever!" There is certainly substance to some of the subjects raised on the campaign trail but alot of petty, insignificant stuff is thrown in to keep the media hopping and the electorate hopping mad.
Jack,
I think Hillary Clinton should drop out of the race if she does not win convincingly tomorrow. Her campaign has gotten really nasty and negative giving fuel to the Republicans for the fall and making it more difficult to mend fences in order to unite behind the eventual nominee, who I believe will be Barack Obama. If she does not leave the race, we know she is just going to get worse to try to overcome the overwhelming momentum going against her. The ironic thing is that the more negative she gets, especially bashing Obama, the more people will start to think that BOTH Democratic front-runners are no good.
The desperation shown by the HRC campaign in the last 2 weeks shows what depths she will go to to hold onto power. She will even destroy any chance of the Dems winning the WH through lawsuits and anything else they can clutch at. The American people are sick and tired of these tactics.
That her campaign was so poorly managed should indicate how she would handle our deficit. She's clueless.
Yes, Hillary should quit the race if she does not win both Texas and Ohio. After, March 4th it will be time for the democratic party to unite and prepare the agenda for the race against the republicans. If Hillary does not quit after losing Texas or Ohio or both, there should be more pressure on her to submit the white house records and tax returns before the next primary.
Will
Atlanta
Yes, I think Senator Clinton should concede the nomination if she does not win both Ohio and Texas tomorrow. It would be in the best interest of her political future, the democratic party and the nation for her to do so. If she despite clear and convincing victories, it will become apparent that her concern is only for winning at any cost, including the high cost of not capturing the White House in the upcoming election.
NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Seamous,
Elwood, Indiana
According to the lastest Polls the trends are falling back into her favor. That said I believe that she should stay in the race if she wins in Texas and/or Ohio.
For the love of all that is right and decent, the Clintons should all retire from public life and spare us any more world-wide embarrassment.
Don't let the doorknob hit you on the way out Hillary!!
She's the one who said Texas and Ohio were so much more important than the 11 races she's recently lost. She should stick by it. When the phone rings at 3 am, though, do we really want a president whose first question is "what does the focus group research say?"
Hillary will do what's in the best interest of Hillary. This is why she doesn't get my vote. Her interests and her internal reasons for many things she does are not to better the Democratic party or to better the nation. Her incentive is her place in history and that she wants to one up Bill. She's not looking out for us. It's all about her.
Bill K.
Maine
Absolutely not! Anything could happen that could change peoples' minds. It's the convention where the dust settles. He still has a few things going against him... inexperienced youth just wet behind the ears for one. The best thing that could happen would be for him to go along as VP and gain experience from Bill and Hillary...that would give him all he would need to run the country on his own after she leaves office. Experience is the best teacher.
How could she stay in? While i am sure she could spin her way out of quick sand, i don't think she could make a win out of "this" loss. I am really starting to think that the dems are getting weaker by the day, and while its not her fault, her "new" campaign tactics don't help.
Hillary needs to stop watching late night tv, cus they don't help in debates.
Hillary..........your resume is overrated and over inflated. Enough with the Karl Rove cheap stupid sophomoric scare tactics!!
If Hillary cares more about Democrats beating Republicans than she cares about herself beating Obama, than yes, she should drop out Tuesday if she loses either state. She just has to decide which is more important to her. If she stays in too long, it may only weaken the Democrats chances of winning overall, and hopefully she cares more about that than she does about beating Obama in the primaries.
No. What's the hurry? Unless something really unexpected happens tomorrow, the delegate count will still be close so why shouldn't the people of Pennsylvania and beyond get the chance to voice their opinion? This is exactly why all the states want to crowd at the beginning of the primary schedule – because they are afraid they won't matter.
Competition is not bad. People think that this battle is giving the Republicans ammunition for the general election. You really think that anything they come up with in the primary is something that the Republicans haven't thought of? If anything, it's giving them each a chance to formulate their arguments for the big game.
Lorie, Kennett Square, PA
If Clinton looses in Texas and Ohio it will only be more destructive for her to stay in the race. All she would accomplish is further dividing the Democratic party and defeating both her or Obama's chances of winning against McCain in November. After Tuesday the Democrats have to pick a candidate or they will not have the momentum they need for a win come November.
Yes, otherwise I will vote for McCain and I am a Dem.
The Democratic candidates are being attacked by McCain and by each other, and its heard to keep fighting a two-front war. If Clinton loses one of the big states tomorrow, the math says its time to move aside and unite for the good of the party.
YES she should. Hillary should have dropped out already. She is back to her old tricks & old style campaign, leaking untrue stories to the media in an attempt to sling dirt about Oboma. This story about Nafta and Canada is such a joke over here, we all know it never happened like her campaign is trying to say. Same old tricks from her and Bill and Americans do deserve so much better. Keep up the good campaign Barack it is refreshing to see someone that really cares and wants to make a positive change for all Americans.
No, she should not drop out. So many of us would be left without a candidate to support if she did. They need to return the process to choosing the candidate at the Convention, the way we used to do it, instead of beforehand. That gives all of the candidates more time to give their view of the issues and voters more time to learn what those views are. We need another exciting convention like the Democratic one of 1960 – now that was exciting politics!
Absolutely.......this is hurting the party. It should not have gone on this far. If Obama had lost the last 11 contests he would have been declared the loser by the media and the Clinton campaign. 7 more weeks of this until Pa is ludicrous. The McBush campaign is high fiving all over the place.
Hillary should continue as she is the greatest weapon the republicans have! Her continued shrillness at jabbing her opponents display who I would like to have call at 3am
Let the Votes decide. Ignore the negative press and get out there and vote. I like both canidates but Hillary has more experience. This country is in no position for someone without experience. It's nice to see a tight race as it sparks interest in casting your vote. A healthy, fair race is all that should be expected and fostered.
Jack:
I think it wouldn't matter if she won both Texas and Ohio because if she and Obama split the delegates she would still be behind. I do think if she gains maybe 50 more delegates she should stay in but if Obama gains 60 or more delegates I thinks she should give in as negativity will increase amongst democrats. This is coming from an independant voter.
As a Republican watching from the sidelines, I do believe Hillary should step aside and let Obama take the nomination. After all, he does have the most delegates at the moment and most people believe Hillary will not change that with tomorrow's voting. I would seriously consider voting for Obama over McCain. I would NOT vote for Hillary.
However, I believe Hillary will continue on after tomorrow because she and Bill are not prepared to give up on their last grasp at power.
Pakistan had a woman Prime Minister
Bangladesh has a woman Prime Minster and woman President
Sri Lanka had woman President and woman Prime MInister
India had woman Prime Minister and woman President
Finland had woman Prime Minister
UK had woman Prime Minster and a Queen
Gemany has a woman Chancellor
When will the USA have one? Equal opportunity?
Where? Abroad only?
Rise woman power!!
No she shouldn't quit. Many of the states Obama has won won't deliver in November. Utah will not be casting their electoral votes for a Democrat. The same is true in several states he has won. The superdelegates need to consider who can really put a Democrat in the White House. When it comes to who can win in November, look to Hillary
I definitely think she should quit if she doesn't win Ohio or Texas. Given her declining lead in the places where she has a lead and Obama's rise, all she will be doing is wasting money and our time and attention on the way to an inevitible outcome.
That's the logical reason. The other reason is that we spend way too much time and money on the election process to start with. We are now starting this two years before a change in office – that means the sitting first time President is really only a full time President for two years before s/he is running again. And since it takes a year or more to get all the appointments in place and any sense of how to run the office, we basically have a focused, effective President for a year out of every four – no wonder we are not accomplishing anything.
Yes, she should quit if Tuesday doesn't work out as expected by her.
Gracefully, would be the key word.
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
No, it's not over.
Of course she should drop out. John McCain is already rolling out the squadrons to attack Obama. We need to allow Obama to defend with all his focus, and start counter-attacking. Currently, he is handling defense and attacks well. The Clintons are not helping anyone but McCain by staying in the battle against Obama.
She will win, BO had lost momentum or his muscle game in caucaus is over.
Country need experienced leader, that is Hillary Clinton. Time is over for on-the-job trainee Barack Hussein Obama.
She is should continue. Country interest is bigger then what liberal media wish.
No. Hillary has the Hispanic vote and may gain momentum. It is up to her when she gets out. She does not have the love of the media and has not gotten a fair shake. Senator Obama has not been properly vetted. If he wins the democratic nomination, just watch as the Republican Machine dissects his past. His sainthood will quickly evaporate unde the spotlights.
Why should Clinton be the one to drop out? If no clear winner emerges after Ohio and Texas, wouldn't it make as much sense for Obama to drop out "for the good of the party"? Should both drop out?
I don't believe that Sen. Clinton should withdraw from the race. She is just as much a valid candidate as Obama. I think they should go to the convention for the final voting.
I do encourage people to look at both candidates very carefully and to become educated on not only the issues but the candidates records and history serving America. I especially would like to see women educating themselves and voting!!!!
I don't wish this mess on anyone but hopefully the Democratic party can get together to make the next 8-12 years a great time of rebuilding and forward progress. I
Yes, by all means Hillary should stay in the race. Isn't the media suppose to be giving the news....and not making the news!!!
It depends on the results. If Clinton closes the gap, then the race should continue. I live in Pennsylvania and it would be a travesty if I cannot vote because the political machine and the MSM have "decided" the election at this point. If tomorrow is a blow out, then HRC should take a hint. But if she closes the gap, let's keep going. No one asked Obama to back out when he was behind in the delegate count, did they?
Yes, Senator Clinton must realize that for the good of the democratic party, she should concede. If Barack Obama were in her shoes, the country would expect the same from him.
I'm having chili con carne tonight!
Jack, I think if Hillary looses YOU SHOULD DROP OUT!! You and the press are endorsing a candidate that would be an embarassment to the United States.
Of course she should get out and start doing what she needs to make the party strong. Barack would be asked to get out if he had the straight losing recored that Hillary has had~~Hillary gives the impression that she is somehow "special" and more important than others. If she cares about the party she will leave gracefully.
Not only should she get out of the race if she doesn't CONVINCINGLY win BOTH Ohio and Texas,
believe it or not, I think Hillary should have never entered the campaign in the first place.
Too much baggage, too many enemies. Despite my disdain for Karl Rove, he was correct when he said Hillary Clinton is "fatally flawed."
She IS. People will come out of the woodwork to vote against a Clinton, especially her. A Hillary Clinton administration (if she could even somehow manage to get elected) would be mired in congressional gridlock and partisan politics – the very thing most Americans are sick of.
Her cheap, desperate "attack & fear" campaign strategy currently in use against Obama reminds me of Republican tactics of 2004, and it disgusts me.
Should she somehow pull off a miracle and win the nomination, after the way both Clintons have conducted themselves in this campaign, even as a Democrat I would have to swallow hard before I could pull the lever for Hillary as our president.
No, Senator Clinton is so smart and can handle any situation in the US of A.
I'm not trusting the preacher from IL......hehehehe
No – Hillary should stay in the race even if she only wins one of the big states tomorrow. Obama is only 109 delegates ahead and that could change in the future. She will probably win Rhode Island as well and Pennsylvania is a state she can surely count on.
As for Obama – over the last several days the press has not been so forgiving towards him. There are several more articles that may be putting some dents in that shield of his. Not sure why this is happening, but it is a good omen for Hillary. I am so sorry sometimes to see the way the press treats her. Extremely Unfair!
Hillary Supporter Forever!
NO! All states have not voted yet and Hillary is not way behind in delegates. Senator Hillary Clinton is better prepared to compete with John McCain in November because she has the experience and represents the right kind of change for our country. On Election Day in November, whether you are Republican or Democrat, experience will matter to the majority of voters. If Senator Obama is the Democratic nominee, I think a lot of Democrats will vote Republican and Republicans will vote Republican because experience matters. There is no one who will work harder or fight harder than Hillary for what is in the best interest of our country and its people. Hillary has what it takes to be a great President. It is time for everyone to set aside pettiness, let go of grudges, and realize the importance of choosing the right person for the job. Hillary Clinton is the right choice for Democratic nominee.
I think that she should consider what's best for the Democratic Party. If the circumstances were reversed, she [and others] would have demanded that Obama drop out for the sake of the party. I've looked at the remaining number of pledged delegates and I don't know how she would catch him. I think her campaigning stating that if Obama doesn't win all four states indicates that some of her people may believe she won't win any of these states on March 4th. The best thing for the Democratic voters is that all of our votes count, not just some of the states. I think that this is how it's supposed to be. On that note – DOWN WITH THE REPUBLICANS.
YES. If it were Obama who was has lost this many contests and was this far behind, Hillary and her camp would be screaming for him to drop out. Time to say goodbye!
If Hillary doesn't win by a large margin she should graciously leave the race. I am an independent who voted for Obama, IF Hillary by a fluke becomes the nominee I won't vote for her.
yes she should drop out if she loses texas or ohio,after all they were her firewalls states. the party needs to get ready for nov. i think oama would do like wise if it were him.
No, Hillary should NOT drop out. I never heard of Obama until the last election when he gave a speech at the Democratic Convention. And I've not heard much from him since until Oprah Winfrey got on his bandwagon and starting richly feathering his campaign nest. I do not feel he has the experience necessary, and I believe there will be a realization of this by the American people (if there hasn't been already) and when the dust settles, Hillary will get the nomination. I have nothing against Obama, but would really like to see Hillary for President and Obama for Vice-President.
Jack ,
yes she should drop out if she doesn't hit the threshold set by Bill Richardson ( whoever is behind in delegates should drop out). Her negative attacks though maybe gaining her a few delegates, won't get her the nomination. All they do is raise her negative ratings and hurt the democratic parties chances of winning in the fall. The Clintons are so self consumed they don't understand what they are doing to the party.
There is no good reason for her to drop out of the race. She is gaining momentum. She is still gaining support from her base and now from independants. She is a fighter. Why hand a nomination to a man whose facade is beginning to crumble. Who will handle Obama's millions of supporters when they all get buyer's remorse.
Who cares. There's not one good candidate out there this year. I just want the one who is going to do the least amount of damage to be the one elected.
Yes, If she doesn't people will see that she's out to do whats best for her not for the party or the country. The longer she stays in the more difficult the general elecetion will be whether or not she eventually wins the nomination.
The longer she stays in, the more desprate she gets, the more ammunition she throws out there for the repubs to use against Obama,
The delegate gap would seem to be insurmountable.
If Senator Clinton doesn't deliver a sizable victory tomorrow, she should take a good hard look at her chances and ask herself if she really wants to split the party in two.
Splitting the party in two will be what she does if she proceeds to steal the nomination away from a candidate who has generated more excitement and enthusiasm for the Democratic party than I'd ever thought I'd see.
She continues to move the goal posts along the field of expectations...and in the process has bypassed every Democrat who doesn't live in States that she deems to be 'important,' (i.e. New York, California, and any State she has managed to win.)
Her condescension, arrogance, and outright hostility to the millions of people who support Barack Obama will ensure that she never has the party unity she'll need to win, even if she does manage to steal the nomination through backroom DNC dealings and strong armed tactics.
No she should not quit people need to realize that Obama may have a way with words but he does not have the experience to back it up. How can a country expect a person with only four years in the Senate to run a country and deal with foreign policy. Hillary is the one who should and will win.
Why Hillary has to quit? Obama's real challenge just started.
Clinton's recent negative behavior underlines her unearned sense of entitlement to the Oval Office. Democratic candidates who possess more common ground with the nation's underclass and the nation's churches have conceded to Obama. Clinton, who lacks soul and broad popular support, should have conceded long ago.
Hillary definitley should drop out if she loses one or just squeaks by a victory. She has been the source of much consternation in the Democratic Party and has embarrassed most of us with her tyrates and sarcasm.
I loved Bill but she is simply bad news.
After living through 11 presidential elections as an adult, the most undemocratic thing that both Clinton and Huckabee can do is "drop" out of the race. This really reinforces Dobbs position of independents. Why should "parties" decide when it is enough. As written in a editorial in the Washington Post, the American people are becoming "dumber and dumber".
Simply put Jack, Yes. But if she wins both Texas, and Ohio by even the smallest margin ,she should definitely stay in the race. My argument being, the "3am phone call", which is starting to resonate. It does question the experience of Senator Obama's two years as a US Senator, with one of those years shodowing every Senator Clinton's vote, while campaigning for President. The people must remember this very appropriate statement, "Measure Twice and Cut Once", because their decision is irreversible this time!!! Earl , Provincetown,Mass.
No, Hillary, please stay in the race. I have absolutely no confidence in a candidate that at best could become "Rookie of the Year." Obama has less experience than anyone that has served as president. Additionally, his arguement that he has been aginst the war has no merit. He was not a member of the senate, nor was he required to vote on the resolution giving bush authority to move toward war. This statement is tantamount to me saying that I was against the war. So What! He still has not seen the fabricated evidence that many honorable members of congress saw. Maybe if Obama knew the facts, as the Congress of the United States did, he would have been a factor. Illinois legislators do not make national policy!
Fairfax, VA
Absolutely. Primary voters have already demonstrated that they are ready for a new type of politician that can rise above partisanship and actually get things done. Clinton needs to stop dividing the Democratic party. As one of very few Democrats at Brigham Young University I have seen first hand Obama's ability to reach across the aisle to gain support from Republicans. I think Clinton needs to recognize Obama's superior ability to reunite this country and allow him to move forward with the race against McCain.
Jack,
Yes.
It's 3 am in the primary season. A phone is ringing in Hillary Clinton's campaign office. All her campaign managers and strategists are asleep. America is calling. Who do you want to pick up that phone? The accomplished Senator from NY who can gracefully back out? Or someone who is deaf to the voices of the majortiy? When Hillary picks up that phone, she needs to hear the voices of the 10.5 million Obama voters, and carry those voices back to her job in the Sentate.
The time for Obama is now.
NO NO NO.
She should not give up, she's the most experienced and qualified to do the job... PERIOD!
Please, REMEMBER what an unexperienced candidate did to this country, a total mess domestically and specially internationally. Yes, Bush was supposed to be the uniter, and talked pretty and was bringing change to the white house, it all sounds too familiar, we need somebody that will know how to deal with all of the mess left over after this administration is finally over. PLEASE VOTE HILLARY!
Her campaign described the four March 4 primaries as her firewall. If Hillary doesn't win big, she should do what's best for the party. That would be throwing her support to Obama and keeping the Republicans from winning a third term.
Yes, if Hillary does not win and win big she should step aside. If she stays in the race and continues the increasingly negative campaigning, she will turn off a lot of folks as well as negatively impact the November presidential campaign for the democrats. In fact I have been personally turned off by Hillary's approach, comments and obvious desperation in recent weeks as well as many of my friends in the 50+ age group. I am a life long democrat who will vote Repuublican for the FIRST time if Hillary manages to secure the nomination by the support of the Super Delegates and not the popular vote.
Neither Hillary or Obama had me at the beginning of the race. I was the undecided independent. Hillary, however, has certainly lost me during the race. If she stays, I will vote for McCain. She goes, Obama gets my vote.
If Hillary Clinton doesn’t win both Texas and Ohio tomorrow, should she quit the race?
YES, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH;
We need the party to be united. We can not afford to go on with this negative campaigning; do you hear that noisy stomping noise? that is the noise of independents’ running away to the other side.
What is ultimately important is that ONE of them withdraw BEFORE the convention. This is essential to save the party from voting itself to destruction in Denver. Hillary can certainly continue on as long as there remains a possibility of approaching the convention with a clear majority of pledged delegates and popular vote. If, on the other hand, the delegate math facing her becomes insurmountable, she must withdraw.
Absolutely not!! Doesn't the rest of the country deserve the opportunity to vote? I
noticed that someone else on this blog said that people who support Sen. Clinton have no problem supporting Obama - I don't know where this person gets there info from but at least 10 in my circle of family and friends will vote McCain if Obama wins the Dem nomination.
As we have seen with the Republican race, it can be a good thing to keep a second competitor running, if only to keep the party's (eventual)Nominee and Policies in the headlines. Sen. Clinton should stay in the race as long as she has a mathematical chance to win and Gov. Huckabee remains in the Republican race. But if Gov. Huckabee has withdrawn and Obama's lead in pledged delegates is overwhelming she should graciously step down and endorse Sen. Obama.
Yes, I think she should drop out if she doesn't sweep Texas, Ohio and the other states. The problem is that it will be close enough for her to think she should stay in. Neither Obama nor Clinton is likely to bow out gracefully as long as there's such a tight race.
Of course not! She is a heck of a lot more relivant than Mike Huckabee, Mike Gravel, Ron Paul or Nader and they are still out there trying to win the nomination. Let this play out..Don't ever count a Clinton out...I believe she will be the next President.
Why is everyone so afraid of a competitive electoral process? This goes to the heart of the democratic process, and is what makes our country great. Let the best man (or woman) get the nomination in the end, but there is no need to cut the process short.
It honestly doesn't matter what we think. Hillary Clinton's whole life has revolved around either making her husband President, or herself as President. I believe she will go the whole way to the Convention no matter what the numbers say. This is not about the people, the country or what's good for the party. It is all about Hillary Clinton. That's why, as a Feminist, I am voting for Barack Obama. His campaign is clearly about the people, the country and what's good for the party.
No, of course not! They are only separated by about 100 delegates, so this is hardly a "landslide" for Obama. Hillary has fought too long and too hard just to give up because Obama has the momentum right now. And, as she points out (if I heard correctly), her husband wasn't the clear winner for the Democrats until June.
She should stay in the race. As more Obama-gates come to light in the coming weeks Democrats may come to their senses and need a decent choice.
Jack,
No she should not drop out, even if she should lose Texas. and Ohio. By the time Pa. has their primary, on April 22, the Rekzo trail should be in full swing. It is quite possible that Obama could be exposed for some type of wrong doing with this man, and his campaign will fail. As people will FINALLY see him for what he is. NOTHING BUT TALK.
What race...if Hillary loses Ohio and Texas there will no longer be a race; Obama will be the Democratic nominee and so on to the election; the real race.
No Jack, she should definitely not drop out of the race, regardless if she wins or loses. Clearly people are split between her and Obama, as the polls for those states show. Way too many people are jumping on the Obama bandwagon because they are either following the crowd with his star power or are simply just Hillary haters. So many people seem to fall for his eloquent speeches like he will magically bring the country together or something. Such naive thinking.
Why should either concede? Obama fans asking Hillary to concede implies that he has some weakness that may be exposed. This is a contest and concession takes all the fight out of it. I want a president who fights for and truly earns the nomination. And if that is unpleasant or makes a few people nervous, so be it. This isn't a grade school playground.
Sadly, yes. It's amazing to me nobody asked Obama this: If you were the junior senator of IL on 9/11/01, and Chicago was attacked, same death tolls, would you have voted to give Bush the power to wage war with those who attacked us? This will be the first question Republicans ask, to show that he would have done it. Next will be ok, this guy is a flip flopper, Switboating all over again.
I am a Hillary supporter but I STRONGLY feel that if she loses either OH or TX she sould bow out! I'm also disappointed how negative her campaign is going towards Sen. Obama. There's nothing wrong with stating the facts but she has stated some stuff that has already been confirmed untrue. I feel if she continues she will do more harm then good!!!!
Why should the good of the democratic party come before people's right to choose the candidate they think is best. Its not like Obama is killing Hillary Clinton. He is up by barely more than 100 delegates and when it comes to the popular vote, they are almost dead even. Hillary raised a huge amount of money this past month, which goes to show that many people still believe in the viability of her candidacy. Isn't this the way that democracy is supposed to work? As someone who voted in a later state, Virginia, I was glad that my vote actually mattered. Why should Hillary Clinton drop out before people in states like Pennsylvania have a chance to cast their vote. It is one thing if one of the candidates was really beating the other, but thats not the case. Though Obama has won many caucus states, Hillary has won some very important states, like California and Massachusetts. There is not an overwhelming majority for Obama and I think its unfair to democratic voters to have a candidate drop out for the good of the party.
I'm an independent who currently supports Hillary, and I urge her to stay in the race no matter what happens tomorrow. My state hasn't voted yet, and I'm not too happy about the thought of being disenfranchised. I also don't feel like I know enough about Sen. Obama to vote for him in the general election, and there are polls out which show many Americans feel the same way. I'm originally from Connecticut, and believe the Democrats are about to make the same mistake they did with Sen. Lieberman. They tossed him aside and nominated a candidate main stream Democrats and independents were not comfortable voting for (myself included - my vote went to Lieberman).
I visit Hillary's website daily, and it is amazing to see the dedication of her supporters. Every fundraising goal is met or exceeded, and many of us are writing letters to voice our displeasure with her treatment by others in the party as well as the main stream media. If she does end up dropping out of the race, I will let her know that she can count on my support to help make her one of the most powerful members of the Senate. At her request, I will gladly write letters to my representatives regarding any legislation she supports.
Indiana
Jack,
Senator Hillary Clinton has a very difficult decision facing her. I truly believe she would be a good commander and chief. However, she is tied to the very thing she has attempt to distance her self from. The old political guard. In the best interest of the party and securing the white house in November ,she would need to bow out if she does not win both TX and OH. She really need to win by HUGE margins. PA cannot help her it 40 odds days away. Would you cut off your nose to spite your face?
Of course she should get out. If Hillary gets less than 60-70% of either Ohio or Texas, she is done. It would require landslide victories for her in all of the rest of the races to win the nomination, even if the superdelegates she has now stick with her. History since Super Tuesday shows that that is an unlikely scenario. Staying in the race would only benefit the Republicans by draining resources and shortening the time that the Dems would have to focus on defeating McCain.
Unless she wins Texas and Ohio by a good margin Jack, then it's time to exit gracefully.
She challenged Obama to meet her in Texas, but like that other New Yorker Giulani who drew the line in the sand in Florida, both campaigns have proved to be flawed.
I cant wait to see her get booed at the convention if she stays past Tuesday.
carl
I am from Canada and I watch with great interest the political ways of the States. I DO NOT think Senator Clinton should quit if she loses on Tuesday. I think she is finally throwing some knock out punches to the Obama camp. She has the most experience, a plan and is the most suited to become the next President of the United States. I watch in awe the speeches Senator Obama makes he is a truly gifted man who loves his country but I am afraid at this point in history we need someone with a little more experience, plans to make things work and yes even a little hindsight to move America forward.
GOOD LUCK SENATOR CLINTON!
No way should she drop out! This is American Democracy at it's best. I have been more enthralled with politics than ever because it is a tight race. Forget the party, I'm looking at candidates. And, by the way, if my Florida vote and the Michigan vote had counted Hillary would be ahead right now!!
No Jack, if she loses and loses big then she should do what's best for our party. However, if there's still an opportunity then continue but please stop the dirty mud slinging tactics on both sides, Obama and Hillary.
And my fellow Democrat’s lets be the better party; leave the fear factor, warmongering, dirty politics and arrogance to the GOP, What else can they run on?
No I think she should stay in. I have a feeling that Obama's thin veneer of shiny new is about to wear off for all to see– am I the only one who sees him as VERY arrogant and someone who has to be right about everything– hmmm who does that sound like [hint: dubya]? I know things are hard for some of us but please do not buy the rhetoric he is selling- what 'change' is he proposing when he agrees with hillary on about 99% of the issues? Seems to me he is just taking her ideas and spinning them a tiny amount and calling them his own. Thats not change, thats xerox!
Jack what other alternative does she have? If she doesn't the party faithful and activists will rally around Obama and mount insurmountable pressure on her to end her campaign. Its not clear though what Hillary will do if she wins one probably Ohio. I think she will continue with her campaign, inuendos and desperation, till she finds out the truth – that she can't win this nomination. I just hope she does not end up destroying the Democratic party in that process. Don't get me wrong I think Hillary is great but it ain't her time this time around.
Although I support Obama, I think she should stay in it until the end.
I am a sports fan...I wouldn't want it to be the third quarter with Obama winning and then stop just because it's unlikely Hillary will catch up.
In sports...it ain't over till it's over. Hillary could come back and shock everyone. Politics...Sports....competition, different but the same. The winner should earn it. Either way, the democrats will win in November. America has been manipulated for 7.5 years now...I think we have had enough of a certain type of mentality.
No, Hillary should not quit. Obama's friend "Tony" Rezko's trial has just begun today and Hillary and all the dems should wait to find out what comes out that trial because Federal prosecutors recently revealed that Nadhmi Auchi, an Iraqi billionaire who lives in London, wired $3.5 million to the financially strapped Rezko in Chicago less than a month before the Obama-Rezko purchases. I have a feeling that right after Hillary quits, things will go south for Obama and dems will loose in genearal election.
I agree that she should quit for the good of the party and I like your edgy attitude Jack (its very attractive for a old guy". Texas bring it home for Obama...
Seantor Hillary Clinton is my candidate. I will not vote for any other Democrat in this race. Not even in November.
If Democrats are that petty and unappreciative, then I can have nothing more to do with them.
Only if she plans to dump the democratic party and declare herself as an independent and launch an independent run in November. After the way the left has savaged her and Bill Clinton because they had the guts to try to pull the party to the center.The country needs more choice between the far left and the far right. As Lou says lets declare independent's day!
Hillary for President 08
Yes, Hillary should quit even if she wins with the results within 4 points. After 11 straight losses, to think that winning on Tuesday makes her the "people's choice" is to ignore the millions of Americans who say otherwise. She/we cannot ignore the overwhelming lead she had in these two states a few months ago. Since that's obviously been eroded, so has her campaign.
After Tuesday, stick a fork in her – she's done!
No one loses 9 contests in a row and says "I'm just getting warmed up". There is a good reason Republicans want Hillary to stay in this and take the nomination, because that gives them a very good chance of winning the general election. Hillary is the most polarizing and divisive candidate we've seen in years. It appears Hillary won't concede any time soon, even if she loses every contest and will happily bring the party down with her, like she's already begun to do with her negative attacks. Serves the dems right if they lose the general by nominating Clinton.
If Clinton takes the nomination, I'll switch and vote for the Republican nominee or an independent. Thanks for dividing the party and losing it for us Hillary.
Jack,
As a precinct delegate in my state (MN), I was amazed at the turnout – and the VAST majority went to Obama. I was counting the poll tallies. Obama slaughtered Hillary in the raw tally. I was shocked. For someone with a history of public service and a history of advocacy to lose to someone with much less experience indicates to me that, "Houston, there is a problem" in the Clinton camp.
Should she quit if things don't go her way on Tuesday, for the sake of the party, I believe that she should. It isn't that we do not want her experience or her vision, but it is just that it isn't her time. This is the time where the younger voters are getting energized and involved in numbers that haven't been seen in such a long time, which is tremendous. We don't want to give an inch to the Republican Party; to indicate that we are in any way divided. Let's start the fence-mending and get on to the "real" race – the one that ends in November.
Though it will become diffucult/impossible for Hillary to clinch the nomination if she loses tomorrow, I do not feel she should drop out of the race after these contests. Just becuase she is struggling does not mean she should marginalize the remaining contests by giving them only one canditate to choose when this candidate might not be best aligned with their ideas. For the same reason Mike Huckabee is staying in the race until McCain locks up the necessary number of delegats, so too should Hillary Clinton.
On a side note, why don't we make this system significantly less complicated by holding a nationwide primary/caucus sometime in March-May. This will give candidates ample time to raise money with which to campaign, and will give all states an equal voice in who the nominee should be. This would promote a more fair process becuase it will erase the effects of momentum and timely endorsements (I'm not a fan of endorsements either).
Absolutely Not!!!! She is currently only trailing by less than 1%in total delegates....Should Obama drop out if he loses Texas and Ohio? The media makes out like this is a huge amount.....Do the math....Obama can't attain all the delegates needed either to get the nomination...
Tough in Texas
Nobody is raising a big stick over Huckabee staying in on the Republican side and he is mathematically out of it. Clinton and Obama is a much closer race. I think the 'Good Old Boys Club" (featuring Ted Kennedy) should shut up and chill out. Margaret Thatcher was great for England; I say let's give a woman a chance in America. Go Hillary!
Mike S.
Jim Thorpe, PA
If Obama lost 11 in a row...we would not have this discussion. The democratic party would have forced him out by now. Why give Clinton such latitude. Sure we all miss the days of the first Clinton presidency when compared to where we are now, but those days are over. Long gone. It is time for this country to move forward in a new and positive direction. If we elect anyone running other than Obama now, we have no one to blame for the demise of our great country other than ourselves.
Dedrick from Atlanta (in Portland)
She has set herself up so that even if she wins the democratic party nomination people would now rather vote for McCain...
Jack, it ain't over till it's over. If politics has taught all of us anything, it's that nothing is ever completely certain. Forgedaboudit! Keep going Hillary!
If their roles were reversed, the Clintons would be screaming for Obama to leave the race before he damages the party. Problem is, when the Clintons hold up a mirror, all they see is themselves.
Absolutely yes. Those saying 'no' must have stronger alignment with the Clintons than the party itself. Staying in will cause untold damage to the party.
If she looses both big ones yes if she looses only one than absolutely not. As Dean said they are open on what to do with Florida and Michigan. As far as splitting the Dem. party its already there as alot of Hilliary supporters will be voting for McCain because of his experience.
Hillary should retire from seeking the Democratic Nomination if she is not able to secure a sizable lead. Going on would jeopardize the Democratic Party and the welfare of the nation.
Jack –
Yes, she should drop out if she doesn't win Texas and Ohio. Her own husband stated that she cannot be the nominee if she doesn't win those states. If she loses, even by a close margin, she needs to drop out so the democratic party can consolidate themselves behind the candidate that has been chosen by a majority of the party. However, I don't believe that is what she will do; I think she'll fight to the bitter end. She has staked too much of her life on this contest.
Amy
Laguna Vista, Texas
If Obama gets a 200 total delegate lead on Hilary, her chances of winning will become so narrow that there would be no point in continuing to campaign, but let her do whatever she wants. If she doesn't win it this year, she can still be the first female president of the U.S. in 8 years.
This is a tough one, but I do believe that if she loses big in Ohio and Texas, the race is over. Just look at the math and the writing is on the wall. If the super delegates decide who the nominee is, there will be an uproar from the electorate as well there should be.
It would be no different than when Bush was appointed by the Supreme Court in 2000.
If it happens and she goes, i think she'll have her eyes on Senate Majority Leader.....not a bad gig.
Jack, Hillary should NOT drop out, regardless of what happens in Texas and Ohio. The decision of who should be the Democratic nominee should be made at the convention. After all isn't that what the convention is suppose to be for? Otherwise it would be just another dog and pony show. In addition you never know what might happen between now and then. Obama may fall out of favor with the main stream media (CNN, MSNBC & FOX) and they will stop pandering to him and give Hillary equal and fair air time.
No, she should stay in it until the end. We're so quick to jump to conclusions anymore (our instant society). Play it until the end and make people think and make some choices.
As a Clinton supporter, I think that Barack Obama should look at Tuesday as a time to reconsider whether he should consider running for the nomination. Based on his wins and losses, he will not have a sufficent number of delegates to win the nominate. He should drop out of the race.
How do you Obama supporters feel? EXACTLY! She should take advise from her supporters not his. It is stupid for anyone to take the advise of their opponent's supporters. She is still in the race and as I see it, on here way to winning the nomination.
I dont think she should give up because stories are starting to leak out about Obama and his real character. Maybe there will be a chance for people to wake up to his real personality not the show person we have seen so far. He cannot hide himself forever.
She has every right to continue in this raise – giving all americans the opportunity for choice. This woman has support and lots of it, do you folks not realize that she is getting just as many votes and he is – and I am not talking about the pathetic system we call caucuses. But when it comes down to one person one vote – she is often ahead of him.
John Kerry is pathetic, his personal issues with Hillary Clinton are the reason behind his comments – not based on anything great. Beside why hasn't he and Ted Kennedy come out to support Hillary when she won the great state of Mass? This race and media coverage is so darn one -sided and so sexist that every woman and man should be outraged. I think that fact that Obama has remained silent on this issue – and allowed the standard to continue – is only proof that he is not really talking about a real change. He is more of the same and that is why he has not earned my vote. Keep going Hillary – this is America and so many people still believe in you.
Hillary could be of so much value in so many ways to the democratic party... why squander that potential on an increasingly desperate bid for the white house? I always say that if I were Hillary, I would take a good look at both Ralph Nader and Al Gore. Nader's dogged resolve has become a joke while Gore was able to walk away and move on to better things. Or if you prefer, the same could be said about Huckabee and Romney's respective political futures.
No! Don't drop out!
Obama may self-destruct between tomorrow and Denver in August. Stay in the race and see how he fares against McCain all spring and summer long.
Obama's anti-semetic cohorts and his self-righteousness may come to haunt his campaign later on.
Also, the trial of his crooked Chicago friend may bite him.
Stay the course, Hil!
Why quit? Why should any of these guys quit? I say fight until the convention. What kind of phony democracy is this that the thing is wrapped up before several states even get to vote? Every state should have a chance to be heard. I really don't care about what is for the "good of the party". I care about what is for the good of the voter. This process is a joke. Let's try and have a real democracy and keep the debate alive until the last vote is counted.
I think she and Obama should both stay in the race until August, and make the superdelegates vote during the DNC, in exactly the way the Democratic Party's rules describe for these elections to happen. Why are people so eager for this to be over? Doesn't it strengthen either candidate to give both the media and the voting public the time to scrutinize the next possible commander in chief? Why do we have to make this decision tomorrow? I like the idea of slowly narrowing it down, and seeing how all the candidates handle themselves as national and world events come into the spotlight. This is not a decision we really get to change our minds about, so let's make sure we get it right.
Yes. Clinton should quit the race if she doesn't win in Ohio and Texas. But I also think that you should ask the question,"Should Obama quit the race if he doesn't win Ohio and Texas?" This should work both ways. Whoever has the most delegates after March 4 should become the nominee.
Considering the press is just starting to get caught up with really looking at Obama and beginning to see what Clinton has been talking about all along, I DON'T THINK SHE SHOULD DROP OUT. Had the media really showcased a balanced picture of these two dynamic candidates, I strongly believe things would be turning out different. With the recent comments about NAFTA coming from that Canadian Memo and Obama's over-the-top, almost royal dismissal of any he doesn't agree with, I'm wondering whether or not the American people will find this attitude a little too much like George Bush's.
We've had over 7 years of a presidency who believed you're either with us or against us and it's looking like an Obama presidency would look similar to this.
Jack
Who died and left the media in charge. It's a long way until the Convention. One never knows what might happen or what skeletons might jump out of Obama's closet or for that matter McCain's. Everyone needs a chance to vote. Let the process roll on.....
Saint Paul, MN
I think the only person that should figure out the answer to that question is Hillary. I'm supporting Obama, but I don't think the press or anyone else should decide where she takes her campaign. I'm concerned about the level of attacks that have happened recently between the two of them (and both campaigns are at fault), but if they can both remain civil, our polictical processes in this county allow for mulitple candidates....let's stick with them.
Heck no, she shouldn't drop out. Remember people that Hillary's not a quitter. She's a fighter, a seasoned public servant, and an experienced policymaker. And sorry to all you stereotypers who are made uncomfortable by a woman who's not soft.
Let's stop all this monkeybusiness and choose someone serious to work for us in the White House.
Latinos for Hillary! Patriots for Hillary! Democrats for Hillary!
I think She should stay in clear up to the convention. The longer she stays in the better it will be for the Replicans, plus I feel she will be easier to beat come November then Obama will be.
I think Tuesday will be a split decision with Clinton winning Ohio and Rhode Island and Obama winning Texas and Vermont. But after all the votes are counted, Obama will still be ahead by about 150 delegates. Clinton is going increasingly negative which only hurts the party in the long run and doesn't do much to help her in the short run. She needs to let go of her ego and exit the race gracefully. But since this is all about her and her ambition, I don't think she will exit. If Obama had lost 11 races in a row, he would have been heavily pressured to exit before Tuesday. But she is getting a free ride because of her husband.
For the sake of the country, I hope both Clinton and Obama stay in the race until the bitter end, by which time the entire country should be sick of them both. Hey, Ralph Nader might be looking good to the Democrats by then. JD from Big D
A curteous withdrawal and backing of Obama would suit Clinton well for her political future–that is, if she loses...
It is her decision. If she wins Ohio comfortably (say 7% indicated by polls), but loses Texas by a very small margin (say 1% indicated by polls), she should continue to actively campain, but she should stay positive in order not to damage Obama too much. If she loses both states, then she should not actively campain. No, she should not completely quit. Obama is too green and too new in public. In case he stumbles (possible), Clinton can then come back.
If Clinton wins both states, then Penn will become a bigger battle ground state. Every potential voter there will get multiple calls!
As a Senator Clinton supporter and a proud Democrat I do believe that IF Senator Clinton doesn't win big in Ohio and Texas then for the good of the Party she should drop out.
Senator Clinton still has a great political future ahead of her wether it's in the White House or the Senate. If she doesn't win the Democratic Nomination then I do believe she has a great chance of becoming one of the Senate's most powerfull Members.
While I am so happy to see that the Primary has lasted this long, which I think it good for the Party, I do believe that If Senator Obama wins Texas or Ohio then it's time to unite the Party around Senator Obama and allow him time to prepare for the General election and time to unite the Party around the Nominee.
I am so pleased that finaly the most popular Members of the Democratic Party ran at the same time for the Presidential Nomination. I think it showed the Nation that Democrats want real change and real leadership. 4 years of failed leadership has united this Party like never before. Can we say thanks Dummy, I mean Dubya.
I'm sick of all these Democratic Party spokespersons commenting on what Hillary should do. I thought this was a Democratic election (but it's starting to look a whole lot like a Republican election). I heard Bill Bradley tell Wolf last week that all uncommitted Super Delegates should vote the way their state/district voted. So, Wolf, being the fair minded person he is said, so that means you, Senators Kerry and Kennedy would vote for Hillary. Mr. Bradley immediately said, 'No, I said uncommitted Super Delegates'. That is the height of hypocrisy. I'm through with the Democratic Party (I've been through with the Republican Party since 1991). I'm joining Lou's party – the Independent Party.
Wake Up! Take a look at the polls and smell the coffee...the Obamalanche is OVER! Hillary is definitely going to win Ohio and Rhode Island (and lose Vermont) and she is probably going to either win Texas or split it 50/50. The polls in Texas have turned around...they have gone from Obama up several points to Obama running dead even (and not that 'statistical' even that CNN is so excited about when Obama is down 5 or six – as opposed to the 'Obama leads' headlines when a poll shows him up by one point!).
Let's look at this race on the morning after this primary...they are going to be very even in overall votes (especially with FL included) and they are going to be very close (less than 100) in total delegates...AND, Hillary will have won 6 of the 8 largest states and she leads in the polls in another 8 largest state – PENN. – meaning that Obama will win only one of the 8 largest states (ILL – his HOME state- which is a certain D state anyway!) [Hint: 42% of the total electoral votes in those 8 states!].
She is too talented to quit. Why can't they just kiss and makeup and run together for the good of the country? That would be the right choice.