The Illusion of Democracy or Are the Superdelegates Feeling Very Super?
Friday, February 15, 2008
Over the last couple of weeks I've read a lot and seen a lot about the superdelegates and their ability to determine the Democratic presidential nominee in spite of the votes of the people. This practice of the Dems has served to paint the Party as less than democratic in the eyes of folks who have participated in this year's election process.
Some politicians who pledged their support early on to Hillary Clinton are now feeling the heat of their constituents. One such person is civil rights icon John Lewis, now a Congressman from Georgia. There were rumors of his switch to support Obama which he has now denied. This is going to get really ugly folks. Obama's overwhelming support in Georgia, especially Atlanta, may jeopardize his re-election efforts. He is a civil rights icon but folks are ready to kick him to the curb.
"Something is happening in America and people are prepared and ready to make that great leap," Lewis told the New York Times. "I've been impressed with the campaign of Senator Obama. He's getting better and better every single day."
What kind of weak compliment is that? Just don't say anything, please.
If Obama wins Texas and Ohio it may be over for Clinton and some other folks. The superdelegates will find they have some explaining to do if they don't support Obama. Talk about a fairy tale. The entire process, if hijacked by the superdelegates, will prove just how much a fairy tale the Democratic presidential process actually is.
Georgia Congressman David Scott got the message and switched to Obama; let's see who else follows suit.
This nomination fight is far from over; don't count Hillary Clinton out.
Want to know how the superdelegates say they'll vote? Click here.