February 12, 2008
This is a very hard letter for me to write, so please bear with me.
I’d like to ask you, with all due respect and humility, to step down as a Democratic Candidate for President of the United States.
Please understand this is not because I believe you can not or should not lead this nation. Please understand that I find you qualified, capable, and worthy. Please also understand I want nothing more than to see a female as the leader of the free world. I would be pleased and honored if you were that female.
However I am finding, right or wrong, many citizens of this country seem to react to you on an emotional level. Emotional, not practical. They can’t seem to see your record. They can’t seem to see your policy. They just hear or read “Hillary” and venom or praise spews.
I thought that with your candidacy, would come reason. I thought that you would be able to get a fair shake by main stream media, by voters, by sexists, and by soccer moms. I thought over time people would begin to see that you really are an effective politician.
I was wrong.
Tonight, I’m typing as I watch you speak in El Paso, Texas. I’m sad. There really is no other way to put it-I’m sad.
I truly believed you would be the best person for the job, and I had this nagging thought in the back of my mind that is now at the forefront. The thought that drove me on Super Tuesday to Vote for Senator Obama and the thought that is the driving force as I write tonight: Senator Hillary Clinton divides this country.
It’s not fair. It’s not right. And under just about ANY other circumstance I would go to the mat for you. However we are a wounded and deeply divided nation. We are a nation at war. We are a nation at odds with each-other. It’s ugly. I thought you could get people past it. I really did.
When I told myself it was gender that got people going, I refrained from asking and wanting you to step aside. Simply on principle, I wanted to see you run and win because they said it couldn’t be done. Because it was my belief, this was all about being a girl.
It’s not, and I was wrong.
I firmly believe while the gender issue has given you a handicap I hope we all one day overcome, it is NOT the reason people have a gut reaction to you or your campaign or your legacy.
Enter the Senator from Illinois, and what I think could be your true legacy. If you were to step aside now, shockingly early and shockingly un-Hilllary-like, you could galvanize an entire nation behind your party. If you were to throw your weight, and your tremendous political clout behind Senator Obama you could still change the world and make your mark in a way no one would expect and everyone would admire.
I don’t want to see you throw in the towel because the fight is too hard or the mountain too tall. I am asking you to throw it in because history is on the line. It is not the history either of us expected, however it is an equally important, momentous, earthshaking change in this country we sorely need.
Do something no one would ever expect. Do something extraordinary. Do something that changes politics as usual and changes history.
I could have never predicted having to chose between what my husband called “the lesser of two goods, not the lesser of two evils” when it came time to cast my vote.
It was agonizing.
But in the end, with no major policy difference and valid reasons on BOTH sides, I had to go with the candidate who I thought could best bring our nation back together. Who could cross party lines and gender lines and racial lines.
I wanted it to be you, but it’s not. For some reason you still get people very riled up, and not in the good way.
There is no way around it-it sucks. But after 7 years of nothing but fighting and head shaking and feeling like we’re living in two Americas, I can’t do it again. Not even if my team is in office.
I really hate asking you to do this, but I want you to please step down and let this nation heal.
We’ve been too angry for too long and your history and your name brings a suitcase of anger to the White House front door.
With the full weight of the Clinton name, behind the scenes, your true legacy could be written. With the full weight of the Clinton know-how you could help orchestrate the next chapter in American history where an African-American leads our nation.
It is this time in history your nation needs you.
As nation’s go, ours has never been one to do things the way we predict. Who could have seen when we finally get our first, legitimate, female front runner we’d see our first, legitimate front runner of color?
Our nation and it’s people need you to do what is best for this country. We need you to be true to what you say on the stump and bring us back together.
If you firmly believe that there is still time for you to change the hearts and minds of those rude and stubborn Americans who are voting with their gut when they see “Hillary” on the ballot-then please, prove me wrong. I’ll be at the Democratic National Convention come August and I’ll hold up my Hillary sign loud and proud and fall in line.
But I think you’ve tried. You tried with everything you had to overcome that Clinton-emotional reaction. Here we are, moving into Texas and Ohio and Pennsylvania-and it’s not you winning over hearts and minds, it’s the Senator from Illinois.
Let’s end the division in this country now. Right now. Let’s start with the Democratic Party early and provide a united front against the GOP months ahead of schedule.
Let’s take back this country for the people, with you playing a much different role than you envisioned.
Make history. Make us one. Step down now.
Sincerely,
Erin Kotecki Vest
voter, mother, woman, feminist, writer, dreamer, and Hillary fan
*edited on Valentine’s Day* want to yell at me in person over this letter? Sign up to webchat with me on ooVoo Friday, Feb. 15th from 930am PST to 1130am PST. Hell, I’ll even throw in more time just to take your call
http://www.myoovooday.com/signup.php
Posted by Queen of Spain @ 8:12 pm • Feeling YaYa
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February 12th, 2008 at 8:16 pm, Karoli Says:
I know this was painful to write, and even more to think. In my view, the very best place for Hillary Clinton is as Senate Majority Leader. Think of what could be accomplished with Obama as President and Clinton leading the Senate. Seriously.
February 12th, 2008 at 8:19 pm, Suebob Says:
Wow. I predict the Trib will be on the phone again wanting to reprint.
February 12th, 2008 at 8:24 pm, podcastmama Says:
I see the vitriolic reactions to Sen. Clinton, and I just don’t get it. But it’s definitely there, the visceral, negative way people respond to anything she says or does.
It’s painful to say it out loud, but you’re right. It would be awful to have one more general election in which people voted not *in favor* of the best candidate, but *against* the candidate they most despise.
It’s time for Hillary to step down.
February 12th, 2008 at 8:26 pm, Sheila Scarborough Says:
Wow, Erin, you nailed it.
I don’t want more of the same stupid backbiting either, and I’m afraid that’s what we’ll get. Thanks for laying it all out.
February 12th, 2008 at 8:39 pm, Attention Hillary Clinton: Step Away From The Nomination Race | Writes Like She Talks Says:
[…] about tough love and breaking from dysfunction: read this letter to Senator Hillary Clinton, written by Erin Kotecki Vest. Here’s part: I truly believed you would be the best person […]
February 12th, 2008 at 8:45 pm, Attention Hillary Clinton: Step Away From The Nomination Race Says:
[…] about tough love and breaking from dysfunction: read this letter to Senator Hillary Clinton, written by Erin Kotecki Vest. Here’s part: I truly believed you would be the best person for […]
February 12th, 2008 at 9:02 pm, Lawyer Mama Says:
This is pretty much exactly why I voted for Obama today. It is sad, but most of the country just can’t get past it.
February 12th, 2008 at 9:11 pm, golfgirl Says:
Exactly, spot-on what I’ve been saying (not nearly so well) for the past week. The very people Hillary Clinton cares about are torn in this exact way. This perfectly presented post should become a petition.
February 12th, 2008 at 9:17 pm, kristy Says:
Hi Erin,
I think you make reasonable and compelling arguments, and yet I am NOT ready to agree. I am not ready for her to step down, and I am not ready to say that’s the best thing for the country.
I am deeply, deeply spiteful of the Republican Party, and so perhaps this is clouding my judgment. But I do not believe that Hillary is dividing the nation; I do not believe she would divide it any further than it has already been divided by this shameful Administration.
The divide is there.
I am tired of the Democrats having to take responsibility for “crossing the aisle,” for leading the charge on “bipartisanship” (which to date has meant the Republicans bending on nothing and the Dems caving on critical legislation), and for “healing” the nation.
It’s not our (the Dems’) responsibility to compromise. Obama is popular, but backing him is, I believe, taking the path of least resistance. And we have been taking the path of least resistance for 8 years, and look where it’s gotten us.
No, I’m done with that. I want to fight back.
And no one puts up a fight like Hillary.
February 12th, 2008 at 9:40 pm, Queen of Spain Says:
You make some really good points. I guess I just see Obama just as important and viable as Clinton and she seems to make the division worse and he seems to make it better.
February 12th, 2008 at 9:42 pm, phyllis Says:
wow. you brought me to tears. you put into words the feelings i’ve had and been unable to articulate. i *do* hope someone picks this up — it’s too good to leave behind in blogland. i’ll be watching for it.
February 12th, 2008 at 10:00 pm, Sleeping Mommy Says:
I have to agree with you. This is one of the major reasons why I chose to vote for Obama instead of Clinton. The emotional response to her in this country is too divisive and we’ve lived with division longer than 7 years. It goes back to Bill’s term in office.
She can’t bring this country together. There is too much negative history and emotion associated with her.
It’s unfortunate. I really hope she gets the message Erin. We need her to do exactly what you suggest. It could mean so much.
February 12th, 2008 at 10:14 pm, jen Says:
absolutely well written and perfect sentiments. i love her, and i agree.
February 12th, 2008 at 10:27 pm, kristy Says:
Hi Again Erin,
I can’t argue when you state it as plainly as that (and I really wish I could).
My partner offers: “The flip side of that is that we know ALL there is to know about Hillary — there’s no secret dirty laundry yet to air — and They haven’t even scratched the surface on Barack.”
Which is something to chew on.
On the other hand, he voted for Obama.
February 12th, 2008 at 10:40 pm, Lara Says:
you gave me chills. you are so eloquent, and you put the problems of this country so clearly.
February 13th, 2008 at 1:00 am, linkblog: Feb 12 | Jackson Miller Says:
[…] Dear Senator Hillary Clinton, Please Step Down […]
February 13th, 2008 at 1:32 am, Nicole Says:
It’s sad, but a lot of what I feel as well. I asked my BIL why people were so so against her, and he mostly talked about Bill, but didn’t seem phased when I said it’s not Bill running. This was from a Dallas guy, but seems to represent a lot of the country sadly enough.
February 13th, 2008 at 3:13 am, The Spinning’s Beginning | Bang the Drum Says:
[…] If this is an indication of what Senator Clinton has up her sleeve, then she really should suspend her campaign now, before she and Fmr. President Clinton tear the Democratic party apart and the country along […]
February 13th, 2008 at 4:38 am, Evan Rudowski Says:
How ironic that Barack Obama turns out to be the primary beneficiary of the never-ending right-wing hate campaign against Hillary Clinton.
And as we have seen on the campaign trail, he is happy to use this to his advantage by continually reminding us of Hillary Clinton’s “baggage.” How cynical, when he should be condemning it.
And how sad that many of Hillary’s own natural supporters are likely to be the ones who finally allow the Republican hate campaign to destroy her.
When you voted for Obama, I hope you recognized the irony.
February 13th, 2008 at 6:10 am, supertiff Says:
last night i couldn’t fall asleep. i just sat there trying to think of the best way to get this sentiment across.
so, thanks. you just saved me a bunch of time. i’m just going to make some copies and hand them out to people when they ask me what i think. much easier.
February 13th, 2008 at 7:33 am, Morra Aarons Says:
You think Hillary promotes emotional responses from voters? What about Obama? He’s floating on the goodwill of emotional response.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:10 am, andi Says:
This is so sad and very well said. How upsetting that there is finally a competent woman in the running and yet she is hated by so many (and why? Because of her husband? Simply because she’s a woman? The reason is a mystery to me.) At least you have what I think looks like a reasonable alternative in Obama.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:24 am, tina Says:
Wow… you said everything I have been thinking but have been unable to put in words. Thank you.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:28 am, Kathy Says:
Beautifully said. I hate to admit it, but every word is true.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:03 am, Susan Says:
Excellent and compelling post. It would be an amazingly historic move if she did step down. The power behind such a move would propel this country forward like no other.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:45 am, christine Says:
It would be huge for her to do such a thing.
Powerful post.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:46 am, Reiza Says:
Wow! This is perfect. This is exactly what so many of us have been saying (only worded far more eloquently). Thanks so much.
February 13th, 2008 at 10:26 am, dana Says:
I was beginning to like Hillary, but it’s not just emotions that lead me away from her. It is her policy. I don’t agree with her plan for health care, I don’t agree with her claims to speak for the children who’s voices aren’t heard (you know what I mean, I’m just not going there today). And yes, I don’t trust her motives.
I’m tired of being made to feel sorry for Hillary Clinton. I’m sure the bad rep she’s getting is partly because of who she’s married to. Yes, it gets people riled up. But how can we fault people for those reactions?
It upsets me to see that she’s suffering for the mistakes her husband made, but she didn’t exactly prompt him to tell the truth and come clean, either. It seems like covering up scandal was more important to the Clintons and I don’t blame Americans for being leery.
History precedes her and while it’s unfair, it’s also the reality we, even Hillary, need to face.
February 13th, 2008 at 10:40 am, Paul Says:
Great letter Erin. Although it would be an easy ride to the nomination if Hillary stepped down, the nominating process makes one stronger, a sense the person is tested. This can only help Barack. Your letter punctuates an underlying sentiment of a growing number of those moviing Obama’s way. As the process plays out as I suspect, he will be a stronger candidate against McCain in the fall as a result of this tough fight with Clinton.
February 13th, 2008 at 10:48 am, sk-rt.com Says:
Dear Senator Hillary Clinton Please Step Down…
I’d like to ask you, with all due respect and humility, to step down as a Democratic Candidate for President of the United States….
February 13th, 2008 at 10:51 am, Pocklock Says:
“Senator Hillary Clinton divides this country.”
You are so right on with that statement. She’s not the right one for the job. I’m with you. Step-down and endorse the one that is the right one.
Great letter. Great post.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:13 am, Not Fainthearted Says:
I know how hard it was to write this. But it is well written and well said.
I’m right beside you on this. And it’s gut wrenching.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:40 am, Inarticulate Fumblings Says:
I can somewhat understand where you are at on this. Being in Canada, we get bits and pieces of the nominees and it is all tailored, of course, to how the networks think you should vote.
Here’s the deal, from my Canadian perspective. Hillary or Barack. Who cares? Right party, right person, not George W. Bush. You’re in the clear my American friends… let’s hope so, anyway.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:59 am, Donna Says:
Beautifully written and sadly, very true. I wish I understood why so many people react to her the way they do, but we need to move on. I hope she comes to the same conclusion as you.
February 13th, 2008 at 12:11 pm, Skye Says:
Amen. There are so many people who would walk across broken glass to stop Hillary from being president… also, am I the only one who finds it creepy to have two families running the country for decades?
February 13th, 2008 at 12:30 pm, Susan Jacobson Says:
It takes a lot of courage to stand up for what you believe in, even if your actions are at odds with what is considered good and popular. I don’t think it’s noble to ditch support of Hillary because of the relentless right-wing and media sexist attacks. You know, Hillary may have a giant target on her back, but Nancy Pelosi, Barbara Boxer and even Condoleeza Rice would get the same kind of hazing. This is *not* the time to bow to pressure and abandon Hillary’s candidacy because she is taking heat based on her gender. Imagine if no one sat in at lunchcounters during the Civil Rights movement because they could not stand the heat of criticism.
And quite frankly, Obama scares me as a lightweight demagogue. He may not intend to be a demagogue, but his emphasis on charisma over substance in his television appearances makes me shiver. History is filled with charismatic politicians promising vague platitudes - change, what kind of change? - who rise to power on the strength of the mob only to become corrupted by the need to keep the mob happy, or to lose control of the mob.
February 13th, 2008 at 12:32 pm, JennyM Says:
Oh, wow. That’s IT, you know. That’s why I have been feeling so SAD about Hillary lately. People just seem to froth at the mouth about her, one way or the other. As much as I was starting to think I’d love to see her as President, now I’m thinking we might be much better off, and her legacy could be much more enduring, as a power behind the throne. It’s a very odd feeling, having this decision to make.
February 13th, 2008 at 3:26 pm, uuMomma Says:
Thank you. I hope she listens.
February 13th, 2008 at 7:44 pm, candace Says:
fucking brilliant. thank you for articulating what is happening to us all. I had an out of body experience as I voted for Obama. The following link is my post about my vote. It didn’t go down as I thought it would. I’m going to forward this post of yours to so many people right now……….
http://notthatidontlovemykids.blogspot.com/2008/01/i-worked-pole-i-mean-poll.html
February 13th, 2008 at 7:45 pm, Summer Says:
Beautifully written, thank you for sharing your views on this. It is refreshing to read someone who actually puts thought into who they are voting for and why.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:00 pm, Amy H. Says:
I’m still a Hillary gal. I will be voting for her in the Texas primary on March 3. I think she is qualified, tough, experienced, & very knowledgable about policy. I’m not ready for her to take her ball and go home.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:01 pm, Ben Fulton Says:
It reminds me of when Al Gore gave up his fight to win the 2000 presidential election to keep the country from being divided. Look how that turned out.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:07 pm, shamsia Says:
THANKS, I agree and could not have said it better…
February 13th, 2008 at 8:08 pm, Fred Thompson Says:
Ron Paul 2008
February 13th, 2008 at 8:09 pm, Tired of the hypocrisy Says:
“I want nothing more than to see a female as the leader of the free world.”
What kind of misandric crap is this? If anybody said “I want nothing more than to see a male as the leader of the free world” s/he would be immediately denounced as a sexist bigot, but as long as you pine for the elimination of testicles everything is hunky dory? What kind of sexist agenda are you pushing? “Nothing in the world can be right until a woman calls all the shots.” Yes. This is exactly what the world needs to further advance the concepts of equality.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:09 pm, Michael Says:
MY, OH MY…….so well-written, so compelling, so poignant, and so true. I admire your thoughtfulness and your sober focus on the truth. Thank you so much. I would proudly vote for either of them in November, but many of my Independent and Republican friends would not. Only Barack is stimulating an American collective response, no matter the party affiliation. Eventually, the truth rises above the rhetoric. Your rhetoric is so damn truthful…thanks for your courage!
February 13th, 2008 at 8:12 pm, Jane Says:
For all of you struggling with this issue, please take a moment to read the following link
http://www.womensmediacenter.com/ex/020108.html to understand why it is so important for Hillary to not give up!
February 13th, 2008 at 8:13 pm, Dave Says:
This is exactly how I have felt for a long time. I want to see a woman become president. I crave it. However, not this woman. It would be a very selfless thing she did for the country if she would step down. Heroic even. I’d think SO much more of her as a person if she did. She needs to think of us, not herself. Unfortunately, she seems to think that being president is what’s best for us. I fear that it’s not possible to convince her otherwise.
It saddens me that your words will fall on deaf ears.
Here’s scenario I’m VERY scared of. Obama gets more pledged delegates than Hillary, but she wins enough super delegates to give her the nomination. That will cause widespread protests. The American people will not be pleased that their choice was not nominated.
Al Gore won the popular vote in 2000. I am afraid that we are going to get the shaft again.
My fingers are crossed.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:15 pm, // the-boring » Dear Senator Hillary Clinton, Please Step Down. You divide. Says:
[…] campaign. This woman has said something very profound and important. It is definitely worth a read.read more | digg […]
February 13th, 2008 at 8:30 pm, Jenn Says:
Wow. Well said. I know it was hard to write, but woman, you nailed exactly how so many of us feel. Time to find someone to unite this broken country. I don’t think Hillary Clinton can do that. She is a divider. For whatever reason, she does divide this nation. I want the UNITED States of America again. Not the split we have lived with for so long.
Great post, Erin.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:39 pm, Bob Says:
“He may not intend to be a demagogue, but his emphasis on charisma over substance in his television appearances makes me shiver.”
Haven’t bothered to listen to the entire speech, or to do any research on your own I see. Things like looking at Obama’s voting record, or listening to his proposal to raise $1 trillion over a decade for Social Security, or $4,000 college tuition tax credits, etc. Stop buying the noise from the Clinton machine. Do your own research.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:52 pm, newyorker Says:
People give George Bush a really hard time, and his fanboy club doesn’t get it either. “Wow why do people hate George so much?”
Well, clearly people hold some things more important than George. Or in this case Hillary.
I voted for Obama in the primary. I’m one of those who will not vote for Hillary in the general election. I don’t know her personally, and I could care less about tabloid style headlines. I don’t like her policies. For example.
1. Her Iraq war vote. It was a violation of the Kellogg Briand Pact, and the UN Charter. As were the votes to support the war by many other Democrats and Republicans. When called on the fact Iraq wasn’t a threat, had no WMDs, she said it was still the right thing to do to go to war. It was the right thing to go to war for NO REASON? SERIOUSLY? That Saddam was a bad guy does not justify a $1 trillion war and hundreds of thousands of dead civilians - killed with our tax dollars. NOT acceptable. Their dictator, their problem.
2. She refuses to release her tax returns. What’s she hiding? It’s customary to do this when your sole opponent has already done it.
3. She’s played the race card, twice. I don’t like hearing latinos smeared as not liking or trusting or being willing to vote for a black candidate. It’s not appropriate.
4. She promised not to participate in Michigan and Florida. Yet she reneged and didn’t have her name removed off the ballots as promised, while her opponents did. She lied.
5. Clinton lied about Obama’s position on abortion. Former NOW president published a youtube video stating she knows his record, that Hillary’s claims are misleading (i.e. lies) and because of this she’s changing her endorsement from Hillary to Obama.
6. She did not show up to vote against the FISA bill George is pushing, to give immunity to telecoms. Obama voted against immunity. McCain voted for immunity. Guess who else I will not vote for in the general election.
7. She’s voted against the treaty to ban the use of cluster bombs. Obama voted for the ban.
8. I find her suggestion of garnishing wages to pay for universal health care, for those people who can afford it but refuse to get insurance, unacceptable. That’s not choice. That’s coercion, and forced compliance.
For these reasons I consider her unfit. Not merely an inferior candidate than Obama, she’s not fit for the presidency.
February 13th, 2008 at 8:53 pm, tom Says:
well here is what a right wing feminist loving sympathizer thinks of hilary… she did not do it the right way, she rode her husbands coat tails into power, looked the other way when her letch of a husband continuosly cheated on her, stayed when he ran a cocaine operation out of arkansas, stayed for the sake of power, instead of following her marxist principles, instead of kicking his ass into tomorrow…. she would be nothing without her husband, nothing. I will take feinstein or boxer over hilary any day of the week. too many scandals in her past. to much putting her finger into the wind. she should have voted against the war. not had her husband pardon all those criminals in new york so she could get elected as a senator. I will take an honest man or woman, regardless of color! give me some character and I will vote for her in a heartbeat! obama will be president, and edwards will be vice president. if she was smart she would step up to the vp spot, then president in 8 years.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:01 pm, matt Says:
hillary blows
LETS GO BARACK
February 13th, 2008 at 9:02 pm, Jerry Says:
This is one of thos unique times when someone says it best the first time.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:05 pm, toolhater Says:
Leave it to the chicks to be the first to bail on Hill.
Simply put, you are delusional. The idea of a united government is a pipe dream. No matter who is elected on the democratic side, I promise you, the Republicans will do whatever they can to stop that President from moving the Democratic agenda forward.
With all do respect, you are a sucker to the nth degree. Your convictions are weak and worthless and you are romanticizing a situation that wont have while you or I are alive in this lifetime.
People have been watching way too much TV being swept up with things and not being very objective about Obama.
The idea that he can unite the country? Right now, he can’t even unite the entire party. Remember Kerry in 2004, he had his party united after the first primary and look where he ended up.
Second is your notion that a nation divided cant get things done. Ask Bill Clinton is that is possible. There was a portion of the country that hated him passionately (and still do) and still the country had a balanced budget and people felt really good about where the country was going. Why even yourself trace the country going to shit seven years ago, well guess who was President then? Was the country united? No. Will it ever be? No.
So this notion that Obama is going to take the whole country and unite everyone is media jibberish. Just like the media never did its due dilligence in Iraq, if Obama hits a wall, people will be asking why the media never asked Obama the tough questions.
Why? Because this story is soooooo much better. The Obama rock star story is so much sexier. Thats all this media attention really is. Its simply a better story.
The thing that most people dont see, is, knowing how dirty and sneaky republicans are;knowing how well they play the game of politics, why would the actually show their hand and say they’d rather face hillary?
Because they know that doe eyed media simps like yourself would take that, along with your daily media shot of Obama being the great messiah whose going to bring everyone together and the next thing you know, you’re turning on Hillary in your cheesy blog.
At some point and time, you should learn the concept of loyalty. Or at least work on getting better at it. I’d hate to have you as a friend if the minute things really started getting rough you bailed on me.
And thats what you’ve done to Hillary. Shame on you.
Full disclosure. Started with Edwards, then went to Obama, then after reading article after article about how cruddy this economy is going, I think the Clintons (not a typo) are the best choice to get this country moving in the right direction. Keep in mind, I personally never like hillary, I prefer women who achieve outside of the husbands coattails. However, the rational part of me, tells me, she might be better for getting this country going in the right direction.
NO ONE WILL BRING THIS COUNTRY TOGETHER!
If Obama does get the nomination, I’ll have no problem supporting him. Again, not a spoiled brat whose taking his vote and going home if I dont get exactly what I want.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:20 pm, Shara Wolfe Says:
How can you write this? HOW?!? Have you ever heard of fighting for what is right? Should people have given up in the 1960’s and said “Oh, well the South will never agree to Civil Rights”? Should women just not deign to aspire to the Presidency because it makes people uncomfortable. You are a disgrace. I will not be happy with Barack Obama as President and until the convention I will not give up fighting for Hillary, as she has done for us all of her adult life.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:20 pm, April from Clemson,SC Says:
Wow. I agree, Hillary isn’t the right one to lead us right now. Does Hillary want glory for herself, or for our country to heal? If she does have good intentions, I think she will step down, and by doing so she will be my hero. Women’s sacrifice of our self interest for the greater good is part of our glory. Heroines know the interest of an individual is less significant than the welfare of the many. I think that we diverse Americans will be able to work together again under Obama. My Republican friends, my conservative church-going friends, even some questionably prejudiced friends all seem to like, respect and cheer for (if not vote for) Obama. He’s intelligent, he’s clear-sighted, he isn’t egotistical, and he seems to value each of our citizens’ well-being. Everyone I know enjoys talking about his success, and cheer for him with each primary. They sense his good intentions and have faith in his ability. Hillary Clinton? Many people question her intentions (of course, not all). Many people do not like or trust her. Hillary, prove these close-minded people wrong. Show that you care more about us collectively than your personal goals and dreams. I know you can lead. Great leaders sometimes step down. Please make us proud of you and do the right thing.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, yous a ho Says:
bitch you be black. cuz the only reason you doing this is cuz you support obama and cuz he black. Just Real Talk.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:24 pm, jennydecki Says:
I’m hoping I’m not one of the “crazies” on the site LOL - but I am curious why anyone is surprised by Hillary and the absolute hatred she inspires.
As was voting rights, so goes presidential elections. We do things a “certain way” in America. I’m not saying its the right way, but I thought it was clear as day when I saw Obama and Hillary which way things would go in order to have the least amount of resistance with the most amount of change.
My general point is that the 15th amendment gave African-American males got the right to vote in 1865 (even though it wasn’t able to be fully utilized until the Voting Rights Act of 1965) and the 19th amendment gave women the right to vote in 1920.
So if Obama becomes president in 2008, we can expect our first woman president in 2063. Of course I believe we are a more forward-thinking and tolerant country now…so maybe 2030 will be a better target.
There are levels of acceptance, and Obama trumps Hillary in a “history repeats itself” kind of way.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:26 pm, Aimee Greeblemonkey Says:
Erin, that was incredible. I agree with you 100%.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:41 pm, Nick Says:
Thank you for this wonderfully written piece. I respect you for putting your love and desire for a unified nation ahead of your political loyalties. Thank you again. Let us hope she listens.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:41 pm, Chris Says:
I never liked Bill and I don’t like Hillary. For those of you who want to know why, it has nothing to do with her being a woman - it has everything to do with her being unethical. Granted yes, the alleged “right wing conspiracy” was all over her, but not for lack of ammunition that the Clinton’s handed them. Hillary has left many unanswered questions about her role in Whitewater, including how her prints ended up on billing paperwork which ended up in her closet at the law-firm she worked at when the whitewater scandal broke. These are documents she was to never have contact so that the integrity of the records and evidence could be maintained.
How can she ask union members to vote for her when she worked for and still maintains close ties with Walmart, and never once spoke up about their anti-union stance? How can she reform healthcare when her “my way or the highway” attitude got it shot down, or when she’s the greatest recipient of drug and health insurance money running for office in 2008?
How can women continue to back her when the clear and obvious message she sent in South Carolina was a woman cannot win office without a man helping her?
How does she expect to be a voice for the people when she defends her acceptance of lobbyist money?
How can I trust her when she knowingly takes large sums of cash from criminals such as Norman Hsu and Peter Paul (a convicted drug dealer) to a tune of 2 million plus?
The Clintons sat by the wayside the last 8 years while their party suffered. They did little fund raising for the party as a whole, while Obama became the parties’ greatest fundraiser since his ‘04 speech at the convention. They did no campaigning for Gore and Kerry, because they knew it would get in the way of a Clinton campaign while Obama traveled extensively out of Illinois to campaign for his fellow Democrats.
So my question to everyone here.. knowing these facts, can you continue to shut your eyes to the true character of Hillary? I am not a Republican, I am an independent voter that does not look back fondly on the Bush or Clinton years. I finally see a candidate who has made ethics a top priority in Obama. Why would I pass that up?
Hillary showed in New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina she was willing to run as ruthless smear campaign as any GOP campaign would run, and she got called on it. That is why people will not vote for her.
Do I have negative feelings toward Hillary? You bet I do. I have negative feelings towards anyone that continuously acts unethical and without moral courage, regardless of gender.
February 13th, 2008 at 9:45 pm, Support this story on Stirrdup Says:
Dear Senator Hillary Clinton, Please Step Down…
This story has been submitted to Stirrdup. Your support can help it become hot….
February 13th, 2008 at 9:45 pm, Chi Morrison Says:
Why is it that we have an American Presidential candidate who proudly belongs to a segregated black church that declares it’s non-negotiable commitment to Africa and nobody is talking about this? Check out Trinity United Church of Christ’s website!! Obama’s church. http://www.tucc.org!!!!
February 13th, 2008 at 10:06 pm, Kanye West Says:
Well said. There will be other excellent female candidates in years to come. We are looking at the dawn of a new America. Obama 2008!
February 13th, 2008 at 10:32 pm, LeSenechal Says:
I’m old enough to remember that when Bill and Hillary came to the Whitehouse, the Senate and the House were controlled by the Democrats (as they were throughout the Reagan years). Before they left the Republicans seized control with their “Contract for America”. It’s not just Bill; she is divisive. Remember it was she who criticized Obama for saying something respectful about the Republicans and Reagan. It’s time for her to step aside for the good of the country…but will she put the country first? Only time will tell.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:07 pm, Buckley Krumperman Says:
Good points Erin. We need to acknowledge that evil is always stronger. That the assholes always win. That there are too many of them, and it’s hopeless. Armageddon is the only hope for this world of egotism. The sooner the better.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:12 pm, Matt Says:
I think Hillary Clinton would make an outstanding Senate Majority Leader. Way better than Harry Reid. She has a much more attentive ear to the national sentiment, and is clearly much more effective at keeping her people in line (evinced by her campaign and the Clinton White House). Obama and Clinton would be the ultimate “good cop-bad cop” combination when it comes to pulling Republican voters over to vote with the Dems.
Obama says “Help us out with this, we’ll listen to your ideas and give you a share of the credit for the success.” Clinton adds “Just don’t stand in our way on this or we’ll embarass you on the news, and run a massive campaign against you in your home state.. And those earmarks you’ve suggested, everyone in the country will know about them.”
This is my dream for the future of our government. The Democratic Party, dominant once again. A new, decades-long, generational voting majority.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:25 pm, Mary Willams Says:
Erin Kotecki Vest, you are very stupid!!! Why ask very smart people step down?
Obama’s specck scare people. All talks, what’s his plan. We should ask Obama step down!!!
February 13th, 2008 at 11:25 pm, Phill Says:
So you think those of us who will not vote for HRC because of her beholdenness to corporate and special interests plus her vote on the Iraq war do not have a valid reason?
With me, it was never a question about her sex. I’d vote for Captain Janeway if she was running. I’m just waaay to tired of the corporate hold on this nation.
But in the end, you are right. Being an independent, I have no party loyalty. Meaning, if the race was between Hillary and McCain, I’d vote for the best democrat. And that would be McCain.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:28 pm, newyorker Says:
Clinton plans to go against the popular vote
http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/02/clinton_counts.html
Showing her true colors. Who’s the establishment candidate now Hillary?
February 13th, 2008 at 11:30 pm, Mary Willams Says:
We will ask Hillary Stand up!!!
We ask Obama step down!!! What is his accomplishment? Zero!!!
Erin Kotecki Vest, you are very stupid!!! Why ask very smart candidate step down?
Obama’s specck scare people. All talks, What is his accomplishment? I could not find any!!! We should ask Obama step down!!! He is too soft.
Hillary will make the dem win the general election. Obama will lose it to the republican!
February 13th, 2008 at 11:34 pm, AC Says:
I respect your understanding of the bigger picture - that the good of the country and the world comes before the aspirations of one politician and even her constituency.
However, I disagree with your sentiment that Hillary is the better candidate. She voted for the Iraq war. She consistently does whatever she thinks will get her elected - I refer to such behavior as selling out. She plays the game exceedingly well, which is fine until you sell out your values for your aspirations.
And I am fully confident that Hillary will drag out this process and do everything she can to gain this nomination. Her lust for power will far eclipse any “love” she has for her country.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:40 pm, (a commenter not me the queen) Erin Kotecki Vest Says:
Dear Senator, Obama, Please step down!!!
Hillary will make the best president in the history. Obama, you could lost the general election to repubblican. When you ask people what your accomplisment are. People could not find any.
We do not need the talks. Just talks and talks. We need the concrete plan.
Dear Senator Obama, please step down!!!
Make history. Make us one. Obama, please step down now.
Sincerely,
(edited by ME,’cause it’s my blog) a commenter who wants to be like —>>>>>Erin Kotecki Vest
February 13th, 2008 at 11:42 pm, Dina Says:
This kind of fight might be necessary to get a woman into the president’s office. Only 16% or so of the American population is black but over 1/2 is female and, yet, there hasn’t been a female president. That is nearly 220 years and 42 presidents. That is just appalling and it should not be allowed to continue.
You couldn’t ask for a more able or better qualified candidate. I think the fight, and the division, has everything to do with Hillary being female. It may be a very, very long time before another female candidate of her caliber comes along and she would probably face the same fight and divisions. Women did not get the vote without struggling either.
February 13th, 2008 at 11:48 pm, Erin K. Vest (not the real one, she's much cooler) Says:
*edited by QUEENOFMOTHERFUCKINGSPAIN
Dear Senator Obama, please step down.
I firmly believe while the race issue has given you a handicap I hope we all one day overcome, it is NOT the reason people have a gut reaction to you or your campaign.
Mccain will beat Obama easily, but Hillary will be much tougher than Obama. The swifting boat attacks will sink Obama with no doubt, but it won’t work on Hillary because she has been experiencing many attacks in the past.
Dear senator Obama please step down, don’t risk the party oppertunity.
Sincerely,
*someone who is really not very original and it’s EK not KE douchebag* Vest, KE
February 13th, 2008 at 11:57 pm, brad Says:
I agree, Obama is the way for the Dems… i understand how cool it is for the first woman prez but as a white male i think a black prez is an even bigger deal. White women had the vote before blacks and have better lives today still than black men and women. I’d love to see a black president!
February 13th, 2008 at 11:59 pm, Chrissy Says:
Hillary should not “step down” because she lost states where she was expected to lose. She can still win it’s just that people like you won’t give her a chance. She has an obligation to stand up for the millions of people who voted for her in this election. It’s a shame that you don’t see what a great candidate she is.
February 14th, 2008 at 12:10 am, Apoc Says:
+1
February 14th, 2008 at 12:20 am, Caroline Says:
Hi Erin. You have more that said it..I feel bad because I can feel your pain..and I am sorry that it didn’t work out for your choice candidate. I would like to offer my view points (RESPECTFULLY AND OBJECTIVELY….I DO NOT wish to calls strife here. I only wish for you all to hear what i believe a lot of people are thinking about this subject- and for those that I do offend anyway, I am sorry in advance)
I can tell you why people dislike her. They dont trust her. She stands for the politics that we have grown to hate. She isn’t transparent, she resorts to the polItics of fear as soon as the going gets tough. I am a female and I can not give her props for her campaign performances. She would have never have gotten this far without her husband and people votng the “2 for 1″. Period. I DO look forward to the day that a female CAN become president, a female that stands and demands the TRUTH..from her colleagues to her own family. A female that has integrity and doesn’t take a dip for sake of her legacy. A female that truly respects others and doesn’t pretend it is a game and all about herself. She speaks a LOT of “ME’s..and I’s”. I look forward to a female candidate that can use her powerful wisdom and intellect to bridge the gaps within our country, and not manipulate it to her own benefit. Who can say, “I am sorry and I made a mistake”, AS ANY HUMAN DOES AND SHOULD. It is no longer politcs as usual. We have suffered much too long with it and frankly, people are SICK TO DEATH OF IT. I do not feel sorry for Mrs. Clinton. She has given it her best shot and it would really PROVE to everyone if she DID take a bac seat on this campaign and “took the higher (moral) road”….”the road less traveled”,.. to UNITE this country instead of tryig to divide it. She would REALLLLLLLY surprise me….and I would second guess everything that I see and feel about her character as a person if she did.
February 14th, 2008 at 12:25 am, billy Says:
you people are morons, cant you see the election has been set up so a republican will win, most likely John McCain, Im not voting for mccain but im not blind to the fact that people are NOT going to vote a black president into office, maybe in the future when we are not here anymore, but for now its NOT going to happen. period ,you people are blind
February 14th, 2008 at 12:26 am, A Bad Coder Says:
Kristy: You are under the impression that the 48% that hate Hillary are all republicans. Not all republicans hate Hillary; a substantial portion of those people are democrats. Like myself. Like some of my co-workers.
I want taxes in my bracket raised. I want everybody to have health care — and other safety nets that we don’t have. I want the first woman president. I want the budget balanced. I want funding for science and alternative energy. I am pretty far left, even voting green in a number of elections.
But if it’s a choice between McCain and Hillary I will vote McCain. I simply don’t like who Hillary is. It started when I found out she tried to kick Gore out of the office traditionally used for the vice president so she could use it. And she has done much more of that and little to redeem her self. McCain has done some pandering recently to his ‘base’, and had made compromises, but he’s not a bad a person and I would vote for him.
But Obama wins against any of the others, hands down. So don’t act like it is only republicans creating this ‘divide’. No, it’s Hillary — and they are just taking advantage of it.
February 14th, 2008 at 12:26 am, Andrew Says:
QQ more? Let the woman do what she wants ya big hippocrit. /cry more. Waaaaaaaa waaaaaaaa. Bunch of emotional idiots.
February 14th, 2008 at 12:48 am, Telexen Says:
On a feminist’s website, I know I’m setting myself up, however it needs to be said.
We don’t hate Hillary because she’s a woman. I’m the first person to stand up and say we need a woman President desperately. But Hillary is NOT it; nor is (in my opinion) the next likely female Presidential candidate, Nanci Pelosi.
Most of us don’t hate her because of her husband. I actually think Bill was an excellent President, and made even better by her presence.
The fact is, despite her record that many of you adore, most political public servants have similar records. It’s where her’s gets ugly that bothers us the most.
The War. She’s never said she was wrong; she’s never apologized. She somehow made a smooth transition without the media caring. Suddenly she wants to pull troops out - this is only when it’s tough to find a reasonable person who doesn’t. She continued to support George Bush with a smug tone towards Progressive Democrats who thought otherwise. She time and time again gave him the benefit of the doubt and it continued to Iran…yet now that she Presidential campaign is in full swing - she’s against all those things. Some of us really don’t forget.
The biggest issue of this campaign for all candidates (thanks to John Edwards) is “change”. She can claim all she wants that she’s been an “Agent for change” her whole life…it doesn’t make it true. During her Senate career, she’s been nothing but more of the same…more of the same in Iraq, more of the same outrageous endless funding for a fabricated “War on Terror”, more of the same voting to strip Americans and non-Americans alike of Constitutional/Civil and HUMAN rights, more of the same voting to cut taxes only for the wealthy and large corporations, more of the same higher burden for the lower/middle classes. Congratulations to her, she can get a watered-down bill through Congress that actually helps nobody except the oil companies with the billion dollar give-aways. That was an “Agent for Change”…was it?
My biggest annoyance (yet not real issue) with her is one of her biggest issues (by her own words): “Violent/Sexual content in video games”. Come…on. She burst a lid over scenes that required a hack to view in a game. Coming off a Congress at the time that was famous “Do-nothing Rubber-stamp Congress”, with big issues being Constitutional amendments to ban gay marriage and flag burning and probes into drug use in a private sport industry, she really should spend her time on something a little more important…maybe like digging us out of a monster deficit - something her husband was pretty good at.
The worst of all is that she is outright lying to us. She’s a phony who will say whatever it takes to get elected, and she’s proven that numerous times in just the past few weeks. The biggest problem in this country that must be fixed before it’s even possible to do anything else is fix the corruption in Washington. You have no right to call me sexist for refusing to vote for the female candidate when that candidate has taken more money from lobbyists and special interest groups that have run Washington for the past generation than ANY other candidate, Democrat or Republican (in fact, about twice as much as any other candidate. Obama hasn’t taken a time, Edwards hadn’t taken a dime. You can’t expect change from a candidate who has promised otherwise to big donors.
February 14th, 2008 at 1:06 am, Dear Senator Hillary Clinton - PoliticalGroove Forums Says:
[…] fan and don’t agree to all of her opinion of her but appreciated what this person had to write. Dear Senator Hillary Clinton, Please Step Down __________________ […]
February 14th, 2008 at 1:08 am, Ed Says:
“You know, Hillary may have a giant target on her back, but Nancy Pelosi, Barbara Boxer and even Condoleeza Rice would get the same kind of hazing. This is *not* the time to bow to pressure and abandon Hillary’s candidacy because she is taking heat based on her gender. Imagine if no one sat in at lunchcounters during the Civil Rights movement because they could not stand the heat of criticism.”
While I agree that Condoleeza Rice and Nancy Pelosi would be walking targets, you have to admit that Condi has it coming and Nancy Pelosi, love her as I do, is doing her best to fight impeachment and stop timetables from being voted on.
I hardly think Barbara Boxer would be hassled on the Iraq War, for selling her donor list for petty cash, for playing the race card with Obama, for voting to use clusterbombs in civilian areas, and for being in the pockets of lobbyists. Why? Because Barbara Boxer is a good, just, likeable person. Sure, she would be hassled by the occasional sexist remark, but she’s not a corrupt warmonger, which makes her better than Hillary Clinton.
February 14th, 2008 at 1:17 am, jjacksonRIAB Says:
I don’t like Hillary because she’s a socialist, not because of her gender. I don’t like Hillary because she lacks principles, not because of her gender.
I did a search on women running for President, and I nearly scoffed that the majority of them were running on the Communist Party platform (literally). There was only one woman who ran for the Libertian Party (and not for the socialist/communist party) and I would have voted for her but for the fact that she was before I came of voting age.
For me it’s not about their principles, their integrity, their consistency - not their sex or race. I would be proud to vote a woman into office if she had such a strong core.
Sadly that has never happened in American history.
February 14th, 2008 at 1:19 am, jjacksonRIAB Says:
Correction: It’s all about their principles, integrity and consistency. Hillary lacks all three.
February 14th, 2008 at 1:42 am, Paul D. Buck Says:
I echo the eloquent part. Very well done.
For some time I thought a Clinton/Obama ticket would be the best thing since sliced bread. But, the visceral hatred of the right for anything with the Clinton name on it would mean that the right would be energized by her on the ticket in any shape or form.
As a policy wonk she would best serve the country, supposedly her goal, in the senate or in a cabinet post. Our greatest presidents INSPIRED us to reach those moments of greatness, usually with the type of rhetoric that Sen. McCain denigrated Tuesday.
The concept that the President is manipulate the “levers” of government in a meaningful way to directly effect actions is nonsense, and I speak as a person that worked in the federal government for 25 years.
But, the sad truth is that Hillary, whom I too thought would make an outstanding President; is, through little fault of her own, too divisive. But, she is not likely to listen to anything other than her own ambition without regard for the consequences.
Has anyone tried to send this to her?
February 14th, 2008 at 2:26 am, Sam Walters Says:
Why is it okay for women to say they’re voting for Hillary because its a woman but when an African-American says they’re doing it because Barack is black then we have to PAUSE and hold on because its wrong and we get slapped on the hand?
Also, I find it odd that some women think being an African-American is easy, it’s not. It’s hard to be a woman and its hard to be African American. Lets stop this demographic war now.
It’s these politics of division between race and gender that the Clinton campaign has stirred up that is hurting Democrats in general.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:32 am, Sam Walters Says:
“This kind of fight might be necessary to get a woman into the president’s office. Only 16% or so of the American population is black but over 1/2 is female and, yet, there hasn’t been a female president. That is nearly 220 years and 42 presidents. That is just appalling and it should not be allowed to continue.
You couldn’t ask for a more able or better qualified candidate. I think the fight, and the division, has everything to do with Hillary being female. It may be a very, very long time before another female candidate of her caliber comes along and she would probably face the same fight and divisions. Women did not get the vote without struggling either.”
Dina this is by far the dumbest comment I have ever read. No one is *ENTITLED* to become President because of their race or gender. That is what many Hillary supporters refuse to see. You’re claiming that she is entitled to this because America owes this to her.
No, America doesn’t.
America doesn’t owe it to Barack either.
It’s these ignorant comments I read from you and others that just puts a smile on the face of people who keep us all fighting for that tiny slice of the pie they give us while they hoarde the rest for themselves.
Use your brains for once, not genitals. We’re ALL Americans. Stop being your demographic.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:43 am, Travis Kiefer Says:
Great entry! My name is Travis and I am a student at Stanford University. Because I believe Barack is the best candidate with the potential to revolutionize politics, I created a website at, http://www.digobama.com, so people like you can submit your favorite articles, videos and podcasts about Barack and vote on them. This site is extremely new (created Monday, February 13th) and is ready to gain momentum in spreading Barack’s message. With your help, this website can play an important role in helping Barack become the clear People’s Choice as the next President. Although your article indicates your support for Hillary, it’s articles like these that add perspective and value to the issues and provides something for everyone. Thank you.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:48 am, digobama.com Says:
Dear Senator Hillary Clinton, Please Step Down…
A very personal op-ed piece that explains why Hillary should step down and support Barack to unify the Democratic party. The author, Erin Kotecki Vest, fully supported and went for Hillary, but has since reasoned that for the sake of the Democratic par…
February 14th, 2008 at 3:39 am, Rob Says:
I despise Hillary.
If she wins I will not vote for Mcain, I just will not vote.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:15 am, Your 4th grade grammar teacher Says:
“As nations go…” (no apostrophe for plurals)
“Our nation and its people…” (no apostrophe for ‘its’ when used as the possessive of “it”; “it’s” is a contraction of “it is”)
February 14th, 2008 at 5:38 am, Jennifer Says:
I wish I’d written this.
I hope HRC reads it.
February 14th, 2008 at 6:02 am, BZ Says:
It is so funny you wrote this, because just yesterday I went to her website and wrote a note to her (and group) asking her to pull out of the race.
Too funny.
BZ
February 14th, 2008 at 6:03 am, AgentX Says:
I have to agree with the Queen on this one, guys and gals. For different reasons.
Hillary, with her husband, have had almost 1 YEAR to get voters to like her. Instead, her unfavorable ratings are still 50%. That means HALF the country won’t vote for her under any circumstances. She had plenty of time to do that, but that is not what happened. Instead, she has divided and ticked off the Black voters, her second strongest group.
And now she can’t win w/o superdelegates. This after a 25% lead. That’s why she should step down.
I think she’ll stick in, lose Ohio or PA, and negotiate with Howard Dean to become Speaker of the Senate or Majority Leader or something like that.
February 14th, 2008 at 6:39 am, jay Says:
You make me sad,please stop trying to write serious commentary and go back to your admin.assistant job at the community college.
February 14th, 2008 at 7:37 am, Lance Says:
Few realize how hard it must be to step out like this. The writer knew damn well that there would be serious backlash. She’s most likely getting death threats in her inbox by now. A very courageous and insightful post is hard to come by and this one is excellent.
I don’t subscribe to either camp but I will say this. Obama is the only one who stops McCain. Whoever pulls the moderates and independents will win the day. If you want a Democrat in the White House Obama is your best shot.
February 14th, 2008 at 8:06 am, Florida4Hillary Says:
I have no overwhelming loyalty to the Democratic party. I’m sorry, but if the Democrats are going to capitulate their best candidate AGAIN to the right wing sound machine to “do the right thing for the party,” then they’ll have to win the white house in 2008 without my Florida vote.
It’s what Gore did in 2000. That worked out well, eh?
February 14th, 2008 at 8:54 am, Canyouhearmenow Says:
Hillary Clinton has been telling America that she is the most qualified candidate for president based on her ‘record,’ which she says includes her eight years in the White House as First Lady - or ‘co-president’ - and her seven years in the Senate. Here is a reminder of what that record includes: - As First Lady, Hillary assumed authority over Health Care Reform, a process that cost the taxpayers over $13 million. She told both Bill Bradley and Patrick Moynihan, key votes needed to pass her legislation, that she would ‘demonize’ anyone who opposed it. But it was opposed; she couldn’t even get it to a vote in a Congress controlled by her own party. (And in the next election, her party lost control of both the House and Senate.) - Hillary assumed authority over selecting a female Attorney General. Her first two recommendations, Zoe Baird and Kimba Wood, were forced to withdraw their names from consideration. She then chose Janet Reno. Janet Reno has since been described by Bill himself as ‘my worst mistake.’ - Hillary recommended Lani Guanier for head of the Civil Rights Commission. When Guanier’s radical views became known, her name had to be withdrawn. - Hillary recommended her former law partners, Web Hubbell, Vince Foster, and William Kennedy for positions in the Justice Department, White House staff, and the Treasury, respectively. Hubbell was later imprisoned, Foster committed suicide, and Kennedy was forced to resign. - Hillary also recommended a close friend of the Clintons, Craig Livingstone, for the position of director of White House security. When Livingstone was investigated for the improper access of up to 900 FBI files of Clinton enemies (“Filegateâ€Â?) and the widespread use of drugs by White House staff, both Hillary and her husband denied knowing him. FBI agent Dennis Sculimbrene confirmed in a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in 1996, both the drug use and Hillary’s involvement in hiring Livingstone. After that, the FBI closed its White House Liaison Office, after serving seven presidents for over thirty years. - In order to open “slotsâ€Â? in the White House for her friends the Thomasons (to whom millions of dollars in travel contracts could be awarded), Hillary had the entire staff of the White House Travel Office fired; they were reported to the FBI for ‘gross mismanagement’ and their reputations ruined. After a thirty-month investigation, only one, Billy Dale, was charged with a crime - mixing personal money with White House funds when he cashed checks. The jury acquitted him in less than two hours. - Another of Hil lary’s assumed duties was directing the ‘bimbo eruption squad’ and scandal defense: —- She urged her husband not to settle the Paula Jones lawsuit. —- She refused to release the Whitewater documents, which led to the appointment of Ken Starr as Special Prosecutor. After $80 million dollars of taxpayer money was spent, Starr’s investigation led to Monica Lewinsky, which led to Bill lying about and later admitting his affairs. —- Then they had to settle with Paula Jones after all. —- And Bill lost his law license for lying to the grand jury —- And Bill was impeached by the House. —- And Hillary almost got herself indicted for perjury and obstruction of justice (she avoided it mostly because she repeated, ‘I do not recall,’ ‘I have no recollection,’ and ‘I don’t know’ 56 times under oath). - Hillary wrote ‘It Takes a Village,’ demonstrating her Socialist viewpoint. - Hill ary decided to seek election to the Senate in a state she had never lived in. Her husband pardoned FALN terrorists in order to get Latino support and the New Square Hassidim to get Jewish support. Hillary also had Bill pardon her brother’s clients, for a small fee, to get financial support. - Then Hillary left the White House, but later had to return $200,000 in White House furniture, china, and artwork she had stolen. - In the campaign for the Senate, Hillary played the ‘woman card’ by portraying her opponent (Lazio) as a bully picking on her. - Hillary’s husband further protected her by asking the National Archives to withhold from the public until 2012 many records of their time in the White House, including much of Hillary’s correspondence and her calendars. (There are ongoing lawsuits to force the release of those records.) - As the junior Senator from New York, Hillary has passed no major legislation. She has deferred to the senior Senator (Schumer) to tend to the needs of New Yorkers, even on the hot issue of medical problems of workers involved in the cleanup of Ground Zero after 9/11. - Hillary’s one notable vote; supporting the plan to invade Iraq, she has since disavowed. Quite a resume’. Sounds more like an organized crime family’s rap sheet.
February 14th, 2008 at 9:11 am, monstergirlee Says:
Wow, awesome post. I couldn’t agree more with any of your posts. I see these things and sentiments being expressed all around me. Thank you for writing this amazing post.
February 14th, 2008 at 9:13 am, kendell Says:
GO HILLARY! Texas is behind you!
February 14th, 2008 at 9:25 am, Becca Parra Says:
Thank you. I LOVE this post. You’ve articulated EXACTLY my feelings. I like Hillary. I think she’d be an excellent president. Truth is, though, that many DON’T. People get so upset about her, yet they can support Senator Obama. I need to support the candidate who can be supported. I know he’ll do an excellent job, as well. I thought it would be Hillary. I expected it to be Hillary. I wanted it to be Hillary. But you’re right. It isn’t. Barak is an excellent candidate, and his message of hope, and the message of my republican friends who are supporting him have put me in his camp. I still can’t believe I’ll be voting for someone other than Senator Clinton, but I will be. For us, for now, Senator Obama is the right choice.
Thank you for taking the words from my head that I couldn’t form into sentences and writing them down. Exactly.
February 14th, 2008 at 9:40 am, tiffany Says:
not everyone thinks hilary divides and lie it or not, america does not want oback. pick him and we will have mccain as our poresident. put a clinton obama ticket and we will win.
i will not vote for cocky smug obama.
February 14th, 2008 at 9:52 am, ShellyT Says:
Hell NO — I want her to fight. She deserves to.
After a nominee is chosen, one of these two will be the VP nominee. Politics is a CONTEST. There is no CONTEST if someone drops out.
Obama will not stop McCain, IMO. He is the nice guy, not a fighter.
I DO NOT WANT HILLARY TO GIVE UP and why the hell should she?
February 14th, 2008 at 10:15 am, Mija Says:
[this is part of something I wrote for another site, but I thought it might be useful to this discussion. HRC is not my candidate, but I don’t understand the anger and rage she seems to incite. This was my attempt to explain it.]
There is something I want to put out here though — I know he brings good things to her campaign. But Bill Clinton IS baggage for Hillary. And he’s baggage she doesn’t deserve. Post Gary Hart, I once heard former Democratic nominee Michael Dukakis say that in order to rise to the Presidency you have to have a (as far as the public is concerned) a boring sex life. That if you don’t, you’ll bring yourself and your party down. The sad thing for Senator Clinton is that Bill Clinton made not just his own sex life public, but in the process made hers public too. I think some of the misogyny and horrible stuff that’s been thrown at her has happened because he threw the doors of his / their bedroom open and humiliated her on the world stage.
In standing by him publically, forgiving him and thereby saving his political bacon, Senator Clinton exposed herself and lost all privacy as far as the low end (because that’s what the NY Post is) media is and were concerned. When I read Dowd, her column struck me as both honest and revealing a deep injustice. There is a recoiling, I think, at the memory of Bill Clinton’s humiliation and how he managed to muddy his wife as well as himself.
It’s the only thing I can think of to explain the venom. This isn’t just sexism (though it is sexism). What’s being directed at Senator Clinton and (to a lesser degree) her daughter is sexual backlash against the former President. The sad thing is, gender politics being what they are, it damages her more than it ever did or will him.
The irony and injustice are terriblely sad.
February 14th, 2008 at 10:24 am, CaribbeanLionesse Says:
For all those who are bashing Erin/The Queen for being too emotional and caught up in Obamamania or too soft to stand up and fight for Hilary, please remember the essence of her post comes down to this:
THE DEMOCRATS MUST WIN IN NOVEMBER.
THE DEMOCRATS MUST WIN IN NOVEMBER.
THE DEMOCRATS MUST WIN IN NOVEMBER.
EKV’s post is making this point just in a more subtle, empathetic way because she, like many of us, are disappointed and perplexed at the visceral hatred aimed at Hilary. It makes no sense - if people really hate her so much because of Bill, how come he doesn’t get as much venom aimed at him? Being on the outside looking in (I’m from Barbados) I never got the Hilary hate and figured it was something you had to be American to understand. Clearly, even Americans don’t understand it. It’s terrible.
But it is what it is and it can keep the Democrats from WINNING IN NOVEMBER. At the end of the day, I feel sorry for Hilary and how she has been treated but would I be willing to sacrifice her for the greater good (seeing the backs of the Republicans)? Yes. In a minute. And this is coming from a dyed-in-the-wool, Ms. magazine-reading feminist.
Because the DEMOCRATS MUST WIN IN NOVEMBER. Keep your eyes on the prize, people!
February 14th, 2008 at 10:25 am, Rob Says:
See, how should I post this. I am a Black Man and I do support Hillary. Obama I believe is playing into the Republican spin and it greatly annoys me, especially when we all know they are very vicious and malicious–just look what they have done to our country in 7 short years. McCain cannot beat Barack or Hillary. I do not want Barack to be put under a microscope of measure as our leader. Hillary is battle tested and make no mistake the republicans will love to blame Obama for all Bush ’s mega messes. Remember they blamed Bill Clinton for Somilia when it was Bush Sr who sent our troops there. We had peace and Prosperity under Bill Clinton and all we have under Bush is misery. The Republicans are setting up Obama, wise up people
February 14th, 2008 at 10:46 am, SteveS Says:
I could not disagree more.
Obama is winning all the smaller states, Louisiana, Idaho, Alabama, Virginia, et. al.
While more democrats in these states might be choosing him, when the general election comes around, the Republicans in these states always outnumber the Democrats. These states go Red in a general election. They have for many elections.
The big Blue states, NY, Calif. Florida, Michigan, and it is looking like Ohio, Penn and Texas have all gone for Hillary and/or are leaning towards Hillary. These are the states that are necessary to win the general election.
Right now, polls show that Obama can beat McCain by 7 points. But the general election is not right now. All it takes is the Republican machine to swing 4 points off of Obama over to McCain and we have a Republican presidency again. This is why they are painting McCain as a liberal, so moderate/centrist liberals who do not want to elect a dream or some nebulous vision will go to McCain. It’s a long time till November and the Republican war chest is heavy.
I work with people here in California (a state that went Hillary) who are active in the democratic party. 4 of them have told me that they will switch over to McCain if Obama gets the nomination. I worry about what that number will translate to, on a national level.
Please remember Howard Dean. He set about a movement, a grassroots, internet movement all about change. EXACTLY like Obama. And overnight, his support disappeared, when ‘experience and leadership’ came into play. Look at Gary Hart, he motivated so many, inspired by something new, then overnight it all switched to Mondale. Democrats go through this time and time again and don’t even see it.
Democrats who vote on emotion and dreams and hope can never stand up to the tried and true. We see that time and time again.
People are negative about Clinton because they have been through 8 years of an anti-Clinton media. Remember Al Gore? He was part of the Clinton dynasty. As is Wesley Clark, the most experienced former NATO commander most capable of fighting terrorism. Clinton has power on her side. Except in fables, power always trumps dreams.
What if Edwards endorses Clinton? Will you still want her to step aside?
Obama is making history, no doubt about it. He will make a great leader someday. People need to look beyond the concept of ‘change’ because the Republicans in power are going to slap any hand that reaches out and wants to work with them. Have Democrats forgotten the last 8 years?
Clinton has consistently built bridges and worked both sides of the aisle. That’s what a President must do.
Please mark my words, as long as Democrats vote on hope and dreams, Democrats will continue to lose. This isn’t the first time Democrats have gone down this road.
February 14th, 2008 at 10:57 am, Amapola Says:
Hillary voted for the Patriot Act and the reauthorization of the Patriot Act
http://mrxfromplanetx.com/2008/01/01/obama-patriot-act
Hillary has received more money from the Military Industrial Complex than any other candidate http://www.alternet.org/story/65869
As Ralph Nader has said, “Hillary is on the Arms Committee. If she really wanted to help poor children, she could cut arms spending–but she doesn’t”
Hillary has received more money from the Health Industry than any other candidate.
http://www.michaelmoore.com/sicko/sickos-for-sale/candidates
This is why Hillary wants to make buying a health insurance policy mandatory before you can get a job or attend college. Has anyone seen Michael Moore’s Sicko?
Watch a TV program and count how many commercials you see through a one program for drug companies, and insurance companies.
This is just like Billy Tozan’s Medicare Drug bill exposed in Sicko
Dennis Kucinich wanted to get rid of the insurance companies, and implement the health care plan Michael Moore was talking about in the movie Sicko. It’s no wonder the man got so little air time on TV, or NPR.
They would have been bombarded by angry phone calls from sponsors just like in Bill Moyer’s Buying the War when people tried to speak out against the war in Iraq
http://www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/btw/watch.html
Hillary is a fascist not a socialist.
February 14th, 2008 at 11:05 am, MrXfromPlanetX Says:
Bill Clinton brought us NAFTA and Hillary has only said she wants to do a time out on trade deals. She has not said she wants to get rid of them
http://www.sanders.senate.gov/news/record.cfm?id=286851
”
Our trading partners have suffered, too - with huge increases in inequality and massive displacement. For example, at least 1.3 million Mexican farmers have lost their livelihood under NAFTA. As a result, the number of annual immigrants from Mexico to the United States surged from 332,000 in 1993, the year before NAFTA went into effect, to 530,000 in 2000 - a 60 percent increase.
“
February 14th, 2008 at 11:14 am, Al Says:
I love all this turmoil! It’s to bad none of the candidates will be reading this. Great article!
February 14th, 2008 at 11:34 am, Warsame Says:
I’m an Obama supporter but I think she should stay in it til after OH,TX. Obama needs the competition and it will only make him tougher for the GE if he should be elected.
I think many (especially women) are suprised at how divisive she is and just conclude it to be sexism. She would never have been where she is with out her husband. Riding her husband’s coattails isn’t exactly very empowering.
Honestly, she is power hungry and feels the presidency is entitled to her. If there is a slight chance of going into a brokered convention she will take it and arm twist herself into the presidency. I have to give her credit though, she is one tough lady.
But she is no Gro Harlem Brundtland or Margareth Thathcer.
February 14th, 2008 at 11:49 am, 2008 US elections top DIGG news » Dear Senator Hillary Clinton, Please Step Down. You divide. Says:
[…] read more | digg story […]
February 14th, 2008 at 12:04 pm, Kate at Daily Cents Says:
Here’s my complete disagreement at Daily Cents:
http://blogs.dailycents.com/?p=909
Queen of Spain, you’re clearly not voting with your gut, yet we’re losing you as one of us who actually uses our heads.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:14 pm, AshKumar Says:
Erin,
I respect the fact that you had the courage and the pragmatism to sit down and express your truest emotions about the state of our nation’s politics. The sentiment and clear statements to/about Hilary Clinton are completely correct, and have been something I have been thinking about for a while now. Thanks for putting it out there for others to connect with as well.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:32 pm, Dillydee Says:
Oprah’s got your check ready, Erin.
February 14th, 2008 at 2:46 pm, Lace King Says:
I had been a Hillary supporter since I was a little kid and I had always loved Bill.
that is, until I saw what Barack could do for this nation. [he had me hooked within TEN SECONDS of ever hearing anything out of his mouth]
I appreciate your honesty, and know that you’re not alone.
YES
WE
CAN!
February 14th, 2008 at 2:54 pm, Dolly Marks Says:
The very least you could have done was write a grammatically correct letter.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:14 pm, Roger Carter Says:
What a wonderful, insightful letter. Clearly your heart and head are in the right place. That’s why you are now an Obama supporter.
Unfortunately Hillary will not even consider doing what is best for this country. She will do what she has to do to win. At all costs..which is why so many people are turning against her now.
A woman will win in the near future. It won’t be Hillary. It will be a reasoned, sensible, coalition-buider. Keep the faith and thank you.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:16 pm, Randi Says:
You’re right. You’re absolutely right. Whenever I see her name or hear her voice, I instantly feel loathing. I can not stand her and do not want to see her nominated as the Democratic nominee - so much so that I would vote for McCain if it were between he and Hillary.
Barack Obama, however, seems to want to heal the nation. I could, in good conscience, vote for him and feel good about myself. If Hilary were to back down now and were to throw her entire weight behind Barack Obama, I might actually be able to respect her.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:23 pm, Mike E Says:
You have said what I believe better than I would have. I am one of those who feel Clinton splits the US. I am a former republican Obama supporter, and I can not support her. It is not that she isn’t qualified for the job, or that she is a woman. It is her ties to the past, a voting record that is unremarkable, and an penchant for secrecy that me scared. All these things go into who she is and that is something I don’t really like. I also don’t like to look to the past for more partisan games that I know will come if she is elected. All these things drive me away from her. I am sure that there isn’t much more to find, but still the fact she refuses to follow the example Obama has set for openness unsettles me.
On the issue, they are nearly identical, but I find Obama’s record to be cleaner, and I find him to be more forthright. Clinton says she will do a lot, but honestly when I look at her record she doesn’t seem to support what she says she will now do. She doesn’t believe in an open government and even voted against a bill that would make it public who attaches what earmarks to a bill in the Senate. To me that just sounds fishy, and I am sure others in the US feel the same.
I do agree with this poster though. She could ensure her place in history by stepping aside right now. She could also be in a powerful position in the senate to enact many of the reforms mentioned by both candidates. Unfortunately, while Senator Clinton was waiting in the wings, she had her time pass her by. Americans now want something different.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:35 pm, Sadie Says:
Thank you for articulating this so well. It’s certainly something I’ve thought of… about what an amazing, major, powerful statement/moment in history it would be if Sen. Clinton said: “OK. Let’s put all our strength behind Obama. Let’s go with the momentum. Let’s take back the White House. Let’s heal this country. It’s not about me. It’s not about him. It’s about us.”
I honestly think it would give her a place in history that would live far beyond this election. I personally would be blown away. Talk about hope!
My issues with her mostly have to do with special interest/conflicts of interest, and not admitting to a grave error in judgment over the Iraq war. No, Senator Obama did not have a vote, but a) how sad that it’s implied if he did, he would’ve gone politically popular,b)he was in a competitive senate primary at the time but most of all c) he was able to predict with chilling accuracy the longterm consequences.
I’ve had a lot of people(women, mostly), sigh to me that they feel sorry for Senator CLinton, should she lose. My response: “Your sorrow is misplaced– Don’t you think the hundreds of thousands of grieving and traumatized Iraqi women might be more worthy?”
Anyway, if she shocked us all, the respect/power such an action would engender would be like Al Gore’s transformation— on major, major steroids.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:36 pm, Penduin Says:
Very, very well put, Erin. I have nothing to say that you haven’t already said more eloquently, but I have to throw one more voice on the pile and thank you for sharing your message.
Nothing worthwhile has ever been easy; the difficulty you had in setting down those words is directly proportional to their merit.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:36 pm, Cee Ess Says:
Name one significant thing Obasshead has done while a Senator? You can’t. What experience does he bring to the White House? My wife takes some of the neighbors’ kids to their hockey games, does that qualify her to be a “community organizer”, too, and therefore the Presidency? I guess so.
Obasshead is nothing more than a good public speaker. In your minds that’s enough to make a man a president. You’re all fools!
February 14th, 2008 at 3:52 pm, Daniel Says:
In 1991-92 Hillary & Bill promised the then 35 million uninsured Americans universal health care. Once Bill was elected he put Hillary in charge of the committee responsible; she ended up getting 6 million children covered but failed to get any type of coverage for the other 29 million people…an 80% failure rate.
Fast forward 17 years and Hillary Clinton is promising the now 45 million uninsured Americans health care coverage. Hillary Clinton receives more contributions from the health care industry then any other presidential candidate; do you think they contribute to her campaign so she can pass legislation that will eat into their profit margins?
February 14th, 2008 at 3:53 pm, John Hay Says:
I certainly agree with your sentiments re Hillary Clinton. Please take a quick peek at my basic blog started 2 weeks ago. Titled Telling Thoughts. I am sure you will be in agreement.
I am an Australian who is actively supporting Obama and what he promises to the world.
Very Best Wishes from Down Under
JH
February 14th, 2008 at 3:54 pm, ViEtStEaLtH Says:
Obama’s supporters are sad people who can’t even take a fight even their cult leader backs down from a fight. I don’t want another Bush in the WO and Obama is another BUSH.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:55 pm, Daniel Says:
Hillary Clinton’s new slogan is that she is in the “solutions business�. What solution was she looking for when she helped send 4,000 Americans to their death by helping to authorize a war that never should have been waged? The declaration she signed was titled, “A Declaration To Go To War With The Country Of Iraq�. When she defends this action now she claims she thought it would be used a tool of diplomacy. That is more insulting to me then admitting you made a mistake.
The issues are far too important to let gender get in the way. I ask all females to look at the two candidates openly and honestly. I am begging you not to elect one just because you share the same set of reproductive organs.
February 14th, 2008 at 3:57 pm, John Hay Says:
Sorry, misspelt email address in previous message. Correct Email Address:
john@tellingthoughts.com
Many Thanks
John Hay Australia.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:02 pm, Caroline Says:
For anyone that wants to read more about his EXPERIENCE & PLANS, to name a few, go here: http://www.barackobama.com Read up before you speak up. It IS a public website. it wont reach out from your PC screen and attack you. You ARE invited.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:09 pm, Lou Says:
I initially was for Senator Clinton. I somehow had forgotten how mean spirited she can be when she is cornered. She is not a nice person. She is one of the meanest persons I have ever observed when things are not going her way. Just listen to the negative ads she is showing about Senator Obama. She is stating that he does not want to debate. She failed to tell you that they have debated 18 times and 2 or 3 more debates are scheduled. She skews the truth. Senator Clinton can not look at her audience directly. Take notice when she is giving her speech; she’s looking out in space like in another world. She has no warmth. She’s a master at skewing the truth and that fake cry was too funny. Can you imagine your president crying in public. She may have found her voice but she has lost her balls. I find it very difficult to trust her. Where was she during the Potomac primaries? Down in Texas, yet she is complaining about Senator Obama. I agree it’s time for change, but she is not the one; not this time, this week, this month or this year.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:21 pm, Ima Says:
I respectfully disagree. I do not believe Hillary is capable to be a fair, trust worthy, effective president for the U.S.A. This has nothing to do with emotional feelings about her or Barack Obama. This is based purely on her voting record which I find not only ineffectual on many levels, but often straight out wrong. Her vote on the Iraq war disqualifies her as a person capable of being President of our country. She helped put our lives in danger by compromising our Homeland Security and respect in the international community. It was the most costly and human rights violating decision our country has made, potentially ever. A select few Senators from both parties did what was right and voted against it. These are people more able to lead on “day one”. Hillary chose to give an already recognized rogue president the power for this war for politically selfish reasons. She has not been an advocate for all women of different ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds. What about the innocent Iraqi women we have murdered? Or our female soldiers returning with severe PTSD as a result of this unjust war. In addition her and Bill’s support of NAFTA and her vote on the Bankruptcy Bill are just some of the corrupt decisions she has made in office for financial gain at the expense of the middle class. Not to mention her campaign of dirty politics that disenfranchised many voters by her campaign shutting doors early in caucus states. She is not for all people, but rather for her own political gain and ego regarding being the first female president. I will not vote for her period and that is wholeheartedly as a result of her past and future positions on important issues. In addition, her healthcare plan is a sound bite that will be harmful to the American people, especially people like myself. To criminalize people who can’t afford healthcare and put in a mandate for adults is not only wrong, but economically unsound. If she had run a dignified campaign and was honest about her positions, I could perhaps consider her campaign. Instead she has used robo-calls and debates as opportunities to slander her opponents in inaccurate and sometimes even racist and insulting manners. As a woman, I would grieve if she was elected. Feminism to me is holding women to the same standards that I hold men. I believe this because I believe we are equally capable of intelligence, integrity, foresight, honesty, etc. She falls short in many of these categories. For this and more she will never receive my vote. Thank you for allowing me to blog.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:26 pm, Ken Says:
Obama supporter here. Stepping down has nothing to do with her being a female, Hillary is just not president material. I thought she was the best choice at first -that was until I got to know Obama.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:33 pm, Mike E Says:
In response to SteveS.
Democrats and Republicans have both been lifted to the Presidency based on popular support. Reagan achieved this in the 80’s, by uniting people of various groups. JFK achieved this as well in the 60’s. Both were good Presidents in their own right and both had problems. This can be said of every president. Both presidents offered hope, so there are two fine examples of hope delivering for a political party.
Your reason that Obama will lose in November uses faulty reasoning. Sure some people may not vote for Obama, but that is not everyone. It is not satistically relevant.
The red/blue state argument is also weak. In many of those states the democrats have nearly the same percentage of voters as the republicans. There is also a very large independent or unaffiliated populations of voters. In years past the independents have broken for the republicans. They are breaking for Obama now. He is also generating a large number of new voters who support him. These voters may or may not show up if Clinton runs, because most of them are voting for Obama as a change candidate. Hillary is not a change candidate. A majority of independents break for Obama over Clinton and break for Obama verse McCain. Unfortunately they break for McCain vs Clinton. It is Obama’s strength and ability to put states into play that have been republican strong holds that makes him a viable choice.
Sen. Clinton’s inability to generate much enthusiasm in these traditionally republican locals seems to indicate that they can be written entirely off. But Obama’s ability to attract people across isles put them back into play. It is the same way that Bill Clinton captured some of the red states before. And Reagan captured nearly all the traditional blue states in 1980 and did even better in 1984 where he lost just a single state.
It should also be noted that no democrat since Humphrey in 64 has managed to carry Texas in the national election. Elections can be won by carrying just traditional areas, but honestly if you have discounted most of the states because you might not do well in them, you have made your opponents job that much easier.
It is this thinking that has kept the Republicans in the White House for so much of the last 30 years. If the Democrats want to win in November, they need someone that is willing to go outside of the parties entrenched areas. Barack Obama has proven himself in this regard. Clinton has not.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:36 pm, Anonymous1 Says:
I am sympathetic towards you. I think that your letter is beautiful -and that you are dead on about her ability to change the status quo, unite us as Democrats and rewrite her own history by stepping down.
I started out undecided. Further, when I first heard Obama about a year ago in NY, I was more impressed with his wife than him. lol At first blush, I had the reaction I hear from critics, asking: ‘where is the meat?’ Well, that was only a 7-minute showcase, and as the months rolled on I saw the “meat” and more. I saw truth and inspiration in addition to brilliance and sensitivity. Even as I began to support him strongly, I never had a bad opinion of Hillary. I had an indifference towards her. This campaign, however, gave me a negative impression of her. Some of it is that she has campaigned poorly, trying to walk the gender balance of soft and hard and missing the right stride; some of it is her resort to negative talk and lies; a lot more of it is her husband. It is difficult indeed to take credit for the Clinton years in the Whitehouse where there are successes but try to parse out, and disclaim its failures. Then too, to see Bill Clinton hapharzardly travelling the country, insulting blacks, ego-tripping and being so out of touch -it made me loathe to give him ANY kind of power or access again. And it dated her. So when she lagged behind the internet revolution of campaigning and resorted to old tricks, it made her look just that: old.
My point is not to beat you when you are down. I just wanted to give you my view of things. Thank you for writing this, and I hope you send it to her. I doubt she will ever step down though.
February 14th, 2008 at 4:41 pm, Maeve Says:
Dear Erin,
I was very touched reading your letter. I am a visitor to the USA and am following this election and see the divisiveness. It is true that Sen