April 2, 2008
Posted: 12:00 PM ET
Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean.
Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean.

(CNN) — Florida’s Democratic leadership and national party chairman Howard Dean presented a united front today as they met to resolve their dispute over the seating of that state’s delegation at the presidential nominating convention in Denver.

"It is my commitment, working with the Florida delegation and the campaigns to find a fair solution so that Florida will be seated — and we are confident enough that we have reserved hotel rooms for the delegates from Florida in Denver," said Dean.

"There will be no empty chairs on the convention floor in Denver," added Rep. Alcee Hastings.

The session, held Democratic National Committee headquarters, included Dean, congressional Democrats and state party chair Karen Thurman. Shortly afterwards, the group issued a joint statement. After a joint meeting today among Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean, Florida Democratic Party Chairwoman Karen L. Thurman and Florida’s Democratic Congressional Delegation, the participants issued this joint statement.

“….We all agree that whatever the solution, it must have the support of both campaigns. While there may be differences of opinion in how we get there, we are all committed to ensuring that Florida’s delegation is seated in Denver. We’re committed to working with both campaigns to reach a solution as soon as realistically possible," said the statement.

"…We will continue to work towards a solution to ensure delegates are seated and logistics are in place for a Florida delegation in Denver.”

The Clinton campaign praised the meeting. "We have long maintained that pretending the voters of Florida and Michigan don’t exist is not fair in principle and unwise in practice," said spokesman Phil Singer. "Chairman Dean is clearly committed to seating the Florida delegation and we urge Senator Obama to join us in calling on the rules and bylaws committee to make this a reality."

The national party stripped Florida of its delegates last year, along with Michigan, when both states scheduled their primaries in January, in violation of DNC instructions. None of the major candidates campaigned there ahead of those votes.

The major presidential candidates all agreed not to campaign in the state in advance of the January 29 contest. More than 1.75 million voters – a state record – weighed in, and Hillary Clinton won a majority of the vote, but no delegates were awarded.

Florida’s Democrats had been weighing several options for a re-vote, including a possible mail-in primary, ahead of the DNC’s June 10 deadline – but two weeks ago, the state party announced that it would not hold a second primary, regardless of whether the cost was covered by outside contributors.

At the time, Wasserman Schultz, who had been staunchly opposed to a re-vote, told CNN then that “now it’s time for all the people involved in ensuring Florida’s delegation is seated to come together and make sure that happens.”

She also expressed a willingness to consider a proposal that would allow the full delegation to weigh in at the convention, but for each delegate to get just half a vote.

Former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, a supporter of Sen. Barack Obama, rejected that proposal, which seemed to gain traction as prospects for a new contest grew more remote.

He told CNN’s Gloria Borger that the Illinois senator would like to “give Florida the opportunity to vote” – but not in a way that would change the overall outcome.

The Clinton campaign – which won in both Florida and Michigan, which faced the same penalty – has pushed for both states’ delegations to be seated, with spokesmen accusing the Obama team of looking to “disenfranchise” voters.

– CNN Associate Producer Rebecca Sinderbrand

(updated following DNC press conference)

Filed under: Florida


Joel King   April 2nd, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Michigan and Florida will not be seated. This is because Clinton agreed to not seat them back in October. This is the clear sign of desperation in the Clinton camp that she is pushing for these so hard. With that said if she wins the remaing states at 55% to 45% on average, which she will not, she still would fall short in the delegate count. Her selfishness and greed is going to ruin the party. I was a strong supporter of hers early one and make no mistake about it she was the HEAVY favorite to win the nomination. I was laughing at her comparision to "Rocky" since she started off as the establishment candidate. She should stay in the race until the last primary, but once the people have spoken she needs to step aside. By the way when was the last time someone of merrit endorsed Clinton?

Joe McCallum   April 2nd, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Seems to me that whether Florida's or Michigan's delgates are seated or not, whether it is right or wrong, rules were put into place for all of the candidates to follow. They all agreed to the arrangement. At the time Hillary had a large and seemingly unsurmountable lead. Now that she is losing, she wants to change the rules. The Clintons have always made their own rules. Have we all forgotten this fact. I f Obama was losing, this matter would have been over already.

Micah   April 2nd, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Florida gets sat , the new Michigan plan will hopefully be accepted. Hillary wins big in Penn., Kentucky, Puerto Rico and WV. She narrows her loses, or even pulls a few surprises in the remaining primaries. Hm…looks like Hillary will be the nominee after all. I'm glad the Democratic party is waking up and leaving fantasy land.

Debra   April 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

"The United States, which has raised concerns about election fraud, called on Zimbabwe's government to make sure "the counting of the votes … ensures the will of the people is heard," State Department spokesman Tom Casey said Monday."

The Union is eager to establish justice in Zimbabwe. That´s good. Democats: How about Florida and Michigan, there is no difference of principle? Obama has objected that the will of the people in the two states is heard in a fair way!

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   April 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

This is the one time that the Republican got it right. The DNC should have stripped FL and MI of half of their delegates and allowed the candidates to campaign in their states. As it stands right now, I think that they should strip both states of half of their delegates and award the remaining delegates based on the previous primary voting. Award Hillary her delegates based on the vote and Obama would receive the balance.

This would eliminate the need for re-voting in both states, adequately punish both states for moving up their primaries, and not give any candidate an overwhelming advantage from the primary results. Hillary would be upset that she didn't gain more delegates and Barack will be upset because he would not have had a chance to campaign and possibly win the states. Neither on is completely happy but the problem would be solved.

Harold in california   April 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Sen Obama didn't even campagin in either of those states. He knew what the rules were and he followed the dictates of the party. The fair thing to do is divide the delegates 50-50 and move on. If the process is deemed unfair some voters may stay home and Senator McCain wins. Contrary to what Geraldine Ferraro and others may think, Sen Clinton does not have a devine calling to be the nominee.

enough   April 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

If a party is not capable of anticapting what a rules change might do to their primary, how can they be trusted leading the country!!!

Dave Froyalde/Washington   April 2nd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Since both Senator Clinton and Senator Obama didn't campaign in Florida, I believe the fairest way the delegates should be allocated should be base on the percentage of votes each candidates got. I hope the Obama camp agreed to this arrangement. Otherwise if they oppose this arrangement my question is: Where is the rethoric about inclusiveness?

George   April 2nd, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Are we going to let Florida be the state that once again embodies the
term "shady politics"? All the candidates agreed beforehand not to
count the votes, that agreement should stand. However, if the states are to be considered, it must be a revote, that would be the only FAIR way to allow their votes to count.

Alvin NC   April 2nd, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Clinton can have Florida, she still can’t win. That’s what you people don’t understand. Its over!

David   April 2nd, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Billary is a fraud.She lost and needs to step down and support OBAMA.He won fair and square .Billary knew the rules beforehand and agreed to them.I say to get this all resloved. Split the delegates and seat have at the convention as punishment. The rules were clear.

Guillermo   April 2nd, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Voters in Michigan and Florida are not victims. They knew they were voting in primaries that were scheduled in open violation of DNC rules. Stop treating them as victims. Their votes should not count! 48 other states followed the rules. Let them learn to play by the rules in 2012. Meanwhile, stop attacking Obama. He played by the DNC rules.

jdona   April 2nd, 2008 1:25 pm ET

CNN why do you keep saying none of the candidates campaigned in Florida? Barack Obama most certainly did campaign in Florida until the Clinton camp called him on it. Ignoring that is certainly showing your bias for Obama isn't it?

Tesa P   April 2nd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Do not seat either, the voters can only blame their governors for ignoring the rules, and they can voice their opinion with the people responsible. I understand that people will be upset, but actually neither contest was fair if voter were confused or only one candidates name was on the ballot. The states can just chalk it up to trial and error. Fair is fair and the other states followed the rules.

NC_Guy   April 2nd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Obama has been campaigning as a unifier! But, he can't even unify his own party. When you look at the voting numbers, both he and Clinton are virtually tied. A true unifier would have a much higher percentage. In addition, he can't bring an end to the Florida and Michigan debacle. So, if he can unify, now would be the time to step up to the plate and do so. Obama, we are waiting!

josie   April 2nd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Obama's slogan is CHANGE, then why can't he support the idea to make it possible to CHANGE the rules for PEACE and to let the voters make their choice of who is the best candidate to be the president of the United States. What you guys are afraid of???? If you think he is really the winner, then prove it..

Bacio83   April 2nd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Hillary and Obama only agreed to not campaign in MI and FL that's it. Week before the primaries both Obama and HRC vowed to have FL and MI counted. It was only after Obama lost that he flip-flopped on this. The man is a flip-flopper and a lier the truth will be known and many of ya'll will want your vote back. Mark my words.

Hillary Clinton 08

Green in Brooklyn   April 2nd, 2008 1:23 pm ET

To those of you who want to seat all the delegates with no penalties - do you really want to start having primaries and caucuses on Halloween of 2011 With campaigns starting next year? Because that is what you'll get if the Florida and Michigan delegations are not penalized somehow.

And please - for those of you ticked off enuf to not vote Dem in November, remember there will be Green, Independent and Libertarian alternatives to McCain on most ballots.

w.l. jones   April 2nd, 2008 1:23 pm ET

When you have a person register as both Democratic and Republican in the state at one time do not look forward to a re -vote. Nobody to hand you twelve roses.

J.dos Santos   April 2nd, 2008 1:22 pm ET

If my vote doesn't count, why bother to vote in November, I'm from Orlando Florida, I voted in early vote, in January, and later I learned that my vote dosn't count….very sad….. This Country is not a Democratic country anyway. Democracy means one person, one vote. as simple as that.

Democracy   April 2nd, 2008 1:22 pm ET

(CNN) – Wyoming Governor Dave Freudenthal is backing Barack Obama's White House bid, the Illinois senator's campaign said Wednesday. 4 /2/08

Yes we can!!!!

Clinton supporter   April 2nd, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Go Hillary! Obama is just afraid that Michigan and Florida will end up counting. He just wants to be the nominee on disenfranchised delegates.

p.g.   April 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Please do something about Forida and Michigan delegates. If Obama wins, it will just add to Obama's gargantuan shortcomings in the Electoral College. I would like to see the Democrats win.

KevinPenn Sr Alabama [Teamsters Local 402]   April 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

What's wrong clinton news network? W e having Blog problems. Go Obama 08!!

Jason   April 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

The delegates should NOT be seated. Follow the rules you fools!!! All this would show that cheaters win. Get it togeather Florida. If they get seated I'll be starting the campaign 2012 primaries next December.

akaDoug   April 2nd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Too bad Florida couldn't follow the rules! Now they should pay the price! You don't reward someone for running a red light, so don't reward Florida or Michigan because they tried to make up their own rules!

That being said, if Hillary wins the nomination she will need Florida to win. When Barack wins we won't, he can win Virginia, North Carolina, Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, Colorado, Georgia and other states that Hillary could never dream of winning.

The better candidate is winning!

Jim   April 2nd, 2008 1:20 pm ET

It's about time!

Hillary is going to win this thing and no one can change that!

Go Hillary!!!

Bayou Joe   April 2nd, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Too little too late. Florida will vote Republican, so it doesn't matter what Deano and his Demo Dinosaurs come up with to seat the delegates.

PA voters give the Democrats a chance to win in November. Vote for
Hillary she is the only chance you have to win.

Obama will take the Democratic party and the Country back to the 60's. The damage is done. The genie is out of the bottle and she won't go back in. He will also take down many Democrats in Congress who are running for re-election. I hope that Dean can live wth that.

bessie   April 2nd, 2008 1:20 pm ET

For those millions of people who haven't voted in both Michigan and Florida because they thought their votes didn't count, their voices need to be heard. Since this turns into such a close race, you cannot disenfranchise us by not allowing us to vote. We're demanding for a RE-VOTE! C'mon Obama, all we need is your "okay", what are you afraid of?

True American   April 2nd, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Every tax payer should have the right to vote. Count FL and MI for God's sake!

Mel   April 2nd, 2008 1:19 pm ET

George Bush and Rove have shown to us that perception is reality or so
they make many to believe. Many no longer seek the truth or even care
about the truth. If the majority can just believe the lie or what is spun to seem like the truth that is all that matters to some politicians, especially
the ones to whom it was done a great deal.
I will vote Dem. regardless of who wins the nomination, but I may have to hold my nose if it is not Sen. Obama.

Fair and square   April 2nd, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Let the original votes be counted.

Hillary won them…. SHE SHOULD GET THEM.

SHE WON THEM - fair and square - SHE SHOULD GET THEM.

We all are tired of CNN's negative reporting on Hillary.

Mikey, Scottsdale AZ   April 2nd, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Why didn't anyone complain when the candidates agreed not to seat the delegates ? Was there any sniper fire around to maybe stop a debate then .
Hey, here's a novel idea …How difficult is it to give 50% to both.. can someone in Florida divide by 2 ????

Hillary missed her calling. If she were the coach of the Patriots she could have moved the goalposts in the 4th quarter and they would be World Champions today !

NC_Guy   April 2nd, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Just play by the rules. Florida and Michigan should not be seated because the DNC punished them. So, there vote should not count. If it was an issue, then it should have been raised at the time they were punished, not now. Also, since the rules state Superdelegates can vote for whoever they want, both parties should embrace that rule as well. I'm tired of the selective compliance by BOTH Obama and Clinton.

CG   April 2nd, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Interesting how Clinton didn't give a hoot about the voters in Michigan and Florida when she was way ahead in the polls and nary a vote was cast. Indeed, Clinton's top aides voted to deny Florida and Michigan their delegates.

Now that Clinton is down in the polls and Obama leads in delegates, Clinton, and the aides who voted to unseat the delegates from Michigan and Florida are screaming disenfranchisement.

Interesting.

Donna   April 2nd, 2008 1:15 pm ET

A new poll released today has Clinton leading Mcain in all of the key states (which includes Florida). In Florida Mcain trails Clinton but boosts a healthy lead of 9 points (47 to 36) over Obama. People do forgive but it is impossible to forget. It is a great risk to not seat the florida delegates. A lot can happen between now and November that would be arrogant on behalf of the democrats to think the next presidency is "in the bag" no matter which candidate is nominated.

Mike   April 2nd, 2008 1:13 pm ET

"He told CNN’s Gloria Borger that the Illinois senator would like to “give Florida the opportunity to vote” – but not in a way that would change the overall outcome."

Isnt tat what votes do? what a ridicuolous statement. Obama diesnt represent change, he is doing jsut what bush did in Florida in 2000!!

PR   April 2nd, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Does it really matter if FL is seated or not, past history has shown the GOP continues to steal the votes.

Alice   April 2nd, 2008 1:12 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter but I can honestly say that I would be against counting the FL primary even if Obama had won there. You just can't change the rules after the voting took place.

I am not against seating the delegates with some other kind of sanction, such as only counting half and splitting them 50-50, which doesn't validate the results of an invalid primary.

Voice that matters.   April 2nd, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Howar dean please tell them that their delegates will sit on the back seats and they will be splitted by both candidates.

Save the money for re-election.

skylark   April 2nd, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Hillary put her name on the ballot in Michigan knowing full well that Obama would follow the rules. She cheated. She is owed nothing.
The same rules apply as for Florida. Let them vote in the main election. Winners never cheat and cheaters never win.

liz   April 2nd, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Seat ALL of the Florida delegates. Award the delegates according to the original vote.

This way of running a primary is ridiculous. Just have 1 primare date like we have 1 General Election date. End of story.

We will prevail   April 2nd, 2008 1:11 pm ET

txdude, please do your research. Obama didn't disenfranchise FL & MI. Stop trying to make up things. It makes you seem ignorant.

I am an Obama supporter but if Hill gets the nomination, then I will have her back ;)

Dems '08-forever

KevinPenn Sr Alabama [Teamsters Local 402]   April 2nd, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Howard Dean you need to step up to the plate and prepare to prevent Clinton from making a mockery of the democratic party by her negative tactics.I am leaning toward the independent ticket but I have been voting for Obama. He can win it all .Go Obama 08 !!!!

HAM   April 2nd, 2008 1:10 pm ET

What is it with Florida and voting…

Funny how important every vote was in 2000… but now it's not? Why… cause it could hurt Obama? The hypocracy of some people is astounding!

Stephanie   April 2nd, 2008 1:10 pm ET

It would not be fair to seat the delegates based on the original vote in January. There was no campaigning there, and it was so early in the voting season at the time of the vote it was definitely an unfair disadvantage to Obama. Hillary won by name recognition, because the voters had not been exposed to the candidates at that point. I say they should split the votes in half, and that way in the upcoming primaries that would push either candidate to possibly reaching the required number of votes to secure the nomination. The same is the case for Michigan

William   April 2nd, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Would you use a pre-season game to settle a tied World Series? Who can ever come up with this childish suggestion? The Clintons.

Rebecca   April 2nd, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Obama campaigned in both states and trys to say he didn't but he did…Hillary and others did not…Everyones name was on the Ballot in both states so Obama he lies again…..There were no rules that they had to take their name off the Ballot….Hillary was smart and left hers on the Ballot…So Obama please stop…..Hillary won she should get then all…..NO 50/50 ..ALL

Voter   April 2nd, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Florida has VOTED!!! The VOTES and Delegates should count!!!

Howard Dean and the DNC need to let this count and not let the date change before the convention over ride the American VOTERS!

Anonymous   April 2nd, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Don’t you see what Clinton is really doing? She is trying to prolong this process in order to destroy any chance of the Democrats taking the White house in 2008. She knows she will not be the nominee of the party. The only thing she can do now is destroy the party and run again in 2012. With Obama losing to McCain; Hillary will have a clear shot into the next Presidential Election in 2012.

Roger   April 2nd, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Hey what about Wyoming's Governor backing Obama? CNN isnt that news worthy ? Another super delegate, another previous Bill Clinton Appointee defects to Obama.

john   April 2nd, 2008 1:07 pm ET

dnc you had better seat both to and mi or I vote republican for the first time in my life!!!

One More Thing About Florida,Michigan   April 2nd, 2008 1:06 pm ET

I was always taught as a child not to cheat. Don't lie. Don't renege on a promise. Play by the rules.

Isn't that what we teach our children?

Not Just Seated------COUNTED   April 2nd, 2008 1:06 pm ET

We don't just want them seated, we want the votes that were cast in good faith COUNTED.

These votes were cast in a certified election, fair to all. Obama is the only one who had campain ads running in Florida.

Reality check #1   April 2nd, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Let the original votes count. If not, let all us revote, there are alot of people who voted for Obama before the Wright ordeal that would not vote for him now if they could change their vote. Let the votes count and seat the entire group of delegates.

Jeff in AL   April 2nd, 2008 1:04 pm ET

These delegates must be seated. Without them, a clear front runner can never emerge for the Democrats.

Angela   April 2nd, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Didn't Mrs. Clinton agree with the Party when Florida and Michigan were penalised? Then she decided to campaign there. Honest? Obama's name was not even on the ballot in Michigan. He remained loyal to the Party.

kentucky   April 2nd, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Why is it that CNN has not interviewed those in Michigan that violated the rules of the DNC? Was it the governor of Michigan that screwed things up? Who did she support when the rules were placed in effect? I think there's a story here CNN . Why not try and bust the people responsible for this and see what their true motives were? Sure looks funny that Hillary's name was the only one left out there.

Mike   April 2nd, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Rules are rules. The voters in Florida and Michigan can vote their state legislatures and governor out of office for going against the well known and publicized rules. In fact, since this well known and publicized, why did the voters not stop their states from doing this in the first place?????

TS, TX   April 2nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Did anyone stop to think, as to why senator Clinton agreed to NOT count FL and MI delegates?

I guess, she was so sure that she will win the nomination that she did not need any Delegates from either FL or MI.

William Martin   April 2nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Well I don't know how CNN can say that none of the major candidates campaigned there when it is well know fact as well as well documented in Florida's news that Obama did in fact have a television ad in Florida. Unless of course Obama was not a major candidate. But I do think that people should know that Obama did in fact have an ad in Florida…which is not fair to any of the other candidates.

William   April 2nd, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Here's a plan. Have a polling group like Gallop create a roster of delegate candidates most likely to reflect the distribution of voter preferences in the population — and let them vote their preferences. If Hillary is ahead in the public view, fine: if Obama is ahead, this will be reflected as well. To make things farer — provide a two week period for campaign presentations before drawing the random pool.

NLS   April 2nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

This article is wrong. Do some research CNN. While the candidates made an agreement not to campaign in Florida, Hillary broke that promise and went to Florida days before the primary and campaigned anyway. Dirty tricks? Why yes indeed.

LieLieLieLieLieLieyy   April 2nd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

You Break the rules you pay the price. why have rules if you are going to breath them.

Bit, Alabama   April 2nd, 2008 12:44 pm ET

I hope that Florida and Michigan delegates will be seated and that both Candidates will get half of the delegates. It won't be fair for Hillary to get most of the delegates because the other major candidates played by the rules and all of them agreed and said that they understood the rules. When Hillary got behind, that's when all hell broke loose and she wanted the votes/delegates to count and go her way. The safest way to play it is to split the delegates fifty-fifty.

Let's get on board Democrats and support our party against the Republicans. Let's put our anger and disagreements aside and let's fight for our country, our economy, and our children!

4Real SC   April 2nd, 2008 12:44 pm ET

I agree with Charles. Set the delegates but not give delegates to either candidates. They broke the rules and if we reward them with a delegate then what will they do next time. If Hillary wants their votes, tell her campaign to pay for the revotes.

Craig   April 2nd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Oh please let them change the rules so Hillary can steal the nomination. Operation Chaos continues.

McCain 08

Bella from Florida   April 2nd, 2008 12:35 pm ET

I truely believe if our votes are not counted there is going to be an uprise in Florida and I will be participating. It's easy for those that live in other states to say tough that is what you agreed on. They should have done a survey or something to ask people how they felt about this and I am sure people would have been oppossed to it. The real danger in this is that people will not be willing to cast their votes for someone they didn't vote for in the first place. And to those who say that now Hillary is concerned about the party She is absolutely right .It is for the good of the party no matter who you are voting for.It's in Obama's best interest to get these votes counted because I will not vote for him if our votes are not counted in some way or another.

California Voter   April 2nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Obama and his campaign want to win at any cost - even without the votes of Michigan and Florida. Wake up America and wake up democrats!

rhonda   April 2nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

The citizen's of Florida and Michigan voted in thier politicians–not they need to stop whining and get to the root of the problem–those politicians!!!

yvrose   April 2nd, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Why every one want to put Hillary down

She is the best whatever you do whatever you says she rise.

joe foreigner   April 2nd, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Consider this, when people genuinely cast a vote and for technical reasons, their voting slips are invalidated, are they allowed a revote? Or do their choices get credited with the invalid vote anyway someway down the line?

I suspect your answer is as good as mine…. Respect The Rules…..

rhonda   April 2nd, 2008 12:31 pm ET

NO RE-VOTE!! Rules are rules.. The DNC needs to step up and say that this mess in not Obama's fault–it's not right that so many (Clintons) are blaming him…

Split the votes 60/40!! And if they don't like it tough!!!!!!!

Brad   April 2nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

The states decided to break the rules, they should have to pay the consequences. Period. Poor decisions on their part does not constitute an emergency on my part.

They want to re-vote? OK, but they should have to pay for it, and it needs to be far enough away that the candidates have time to campaign there. It is the only way to be sure that it is done fairly. The first election essentially didn't happen, whether you voted or not, it didn't mean anything. Sorry.

What is it with Florida? Why do they consistently cause election problems? Why are they above the rules?

vic nashville,Tn   April 2nd, 2008 12:27 pm ET

I thought Democratic party belongs to Obama. What Mr Dean is doing now? Obama campaign making the rules in the party .Mr Dean like a rubber stamp When Obama need him he is using him. If Dean want to resolve FL & MI he will favor Obama

Amy   April 2nd, 2008 12:27 pm ET

If I'm a state whose voters must wait until March, April, or even June to vote, I'd move my primary up as well, regardless of any penalties imposed by my "party". It would to be my duty to protect voters and clearly affirm that their votes do count for something. This "Clinton should bow out graciously" talk is like the banter of primaries in the past, primaries whose late showing reflects a one-sided, lopsided, contest. Why vote at all? "One man one vote?" That's what I remember hearing in the eighth grade…

What's more expensive after all: Having a revote, or disenfranchising voters?

If you want to make it "fair," have all primaries on the same date. What were thinking in the first place???

Will   April 2nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

I live in Fl., and the Republicans moved our primary day, Democrats had nothing to do with moving it up, This is to be blamed on the Republicans. I voted and want my vote counted. Howard Dean and the Democrat party where a bunch of idoits stripping the delegates. They should get it fixed or I will be voting straight Republican ticket come Nov.

Cecil   April 2nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Correction to Txdude;

If the DNC disenfranchise FL & MI…democrats will still wiin in November!

Obama 08

Robert Santa Rosa CA   April 2nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I favor the democrats on the issues, but if they cannot prove that they can run a primary election, how can we trust them to run the country?

Mack   April 2nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

To not count the delegates in FL and MI was a bad rule in the first place. The DNC messed this up. That's why someone needs to fix it. People's votes should count. This is America, not some far off unrest country that you might hear about on the news.

Joe - Virginia   April 2nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

The FL governor and legislature are the perpetrators of this problem. Voters should seek results from those responsible and not political parties who enforced rules that all candidates agreed. The same is true in Michigan. Why is the media not taking it to the face of the state governments? Wimps — beginning with that "best political news team at CNN."

Cindy,CA   April 2nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

It's the voters right to vote. The problem with the rules is that it took that right away from the people…That is not a democracy. We can't keep having elections where it is ok to take away our rights.
When will it end????

Kim   April 2nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

NO! The votes can not be counted as they stand today. Many Democrats did not go to the polls because they knew their vote would not be counted. Either don't count them at all, or there must be a re-vote or just split the delegates 50-50. As a Florida Democrat (one who DID vote because of a property tax amendment that I oppose), I would absolutely disagree with any decision that would count the votes at this time.

Seth   April 2nd, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Lest we forget… Hillary had no problem with following the rules and stripping the MI and FL delegates in the beginning. It wasn't until she has practically no hope of winning that she cares.

Now she wants to break the rules to help herself. This is another case of how incredibly selfish Hillary is.

If she really cared about the voters of MI and FL why didn't she oppose the stripping of delegates in the first place? Why did she agree not to campaign there? Because she didn't really care until it effected her. That isn't the kind of president I want

Tracy   April 2nd, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Stop the Insanity-

I couldn't have said it better myself. Those who believe in what Hillary or BArack say but then insist they will vote for McCain if their candidate doesn't win- PLEASE stay home and don't vote. Educate yourself and realize we can't handle another 4-8 years of Republican rule.

If you are a democrat, vote democrat.

Anyone but a Republican in '08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tom Swift, Shopton   April 2nd, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Dean… don't Flip-Flop on this one. No wonder the Democrat party is a mess. Wishy-washy.

Everyone knew the rules. Live by them. Stop this nonsense.

Gore/Biden '08

B J in ATL   April 2nd, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Hillary has defiled the system, making Howard Dean take action.

Mike   April 2nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

This is freaking outragous!! Why can't Dean just follow the rules!!! I promise you the wrath that is about to sweept this nation when those Delegates are seated is going to rock this nation. How can you honestly feel good about changing the rules in the middle of a game to give someone an unfair advantage???? This is a mess!! This is the end of the Democratic party as we know it!

Mike, Kalamazoo, MI   April 2nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

It's too bad that the representatives from Michigan and Florida didn't put half of the time and energy into following the rules from the start. Bottom line, though, is that they didn't — they broke the rules and now they must face the consequences.

The only people "disenfranchising" voters are the representatives from Michigan and Florida!!!

April in Texas   April 2nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

WTG Dean…. Stick to the rules and keep the morals of following the rules.

Obama 08

DemocracyNow   April 2nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

My State followed the rules and Florida broke them when the Republican controlled Government moved the Primary.

You brake the rules thats it end of story.

No Revote if the Clintons had been ahead of Obama in this battle for the nomination they would not be complaining to our DNC and Howard Dean.

I am calling the DNC to tell them and Dean to stand their ground.

Its over and No Redo's

Tiffanie (Southern Bell)   April 2nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Enough already! Obama wasn't even on the ballot in Michigan. How is it fair.

Lauren   April 2nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Dean do whats right stick up for the Party and its rules. The DNC stripped them do not give them back.

Nathan   April 2nd, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Since when did the DNC, or any candidate, get to decide which voters are allowed to vote? Voting is our constitutional right!

Howard Dean, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, the DNC– they are not the Constitution of the United States. We the people have a RIGHT to vote, and to have our votes counted.

"Stipping Delegates" is code for "Disenfranchise Voters". It is illegal.

CAW white male 3 kids   April 2nd, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Dean's 50 state strategy gets cudos for the GE, but he needs to keep his mouth shut about FL and MI and let them work it out. No reward, however, for breaking the rules, because there is no re-creating past circumstances and current circumstances distort perceptions of favoritism. King Solomon would suggest a 50/50 split - And, given this isn't a baby, that's as close to 'fair' as we're going to get and seat a delegation. Let's be done with it folks; we've got bigger fish to fry.

Kmp;   April 2nd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

D.J. unfortunatlely you do not realize that it is not the people they are penalizing it is the party they are penalizing. They knew what would happen but held their primary anyway, unfortunately because they broke the rules the vote will not count. It is in no way either canidiates fault. And personally I don't trust any vote coming out of FL because they just cannot seem to get one right without messing it up some how.

My main contention with this whole deal is with Clinton and her constant belly moaning in how this is Barack's fault and he is trying to suppress the vote. He had nothing to do with this and both he and she both agreed in Sept. to the judgement handed down to both MI and FL, but now that she needs those votes Hillary is saying that Barack is trying to suppress the will of the people. Rules are rules once they are written they must be followed and sorry but to allow any seating of the delegates would just go and prove to our children it is okay to break the rules because there are no consequences for your actions.

Adam   April 2nd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

I'm a Florida resident and I in no way, shape or form believe the results should be counted as they are now. Florida broke the rules, END OF STORY. Why is it nobody seems to want to take responsiblity for their actions any more? If the my fellow Floridians are angry about this, then when our officials come up for re-election, you know what to do.

Helen   April 2nd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

It is time to let Florida people speak. The delegates should be seated according to the voting result.

Go Hillary!

CW   April 2nd, 2008 12:08 pm ET

When the tables are turned, who are the ones complaining now? You Obamaniacs crack me up. You people feel so entitled and you think you're better than everyone else. Grow up and get real.

If you count Florida & Michigan's actual votes, Hillary has the popular vote even if you gave Obama the 40% uncommitted from MI. Even if you didn't count the delegates towards the convention, the actual votes of the citizens should be considered as every person in this democracy has a right to vote and be heard.

txdude   April 2nd, 2008 12:06 pm ET

If Obama and the DNC disenfranchise FL & MI…democrats will definitely loose in November.

tired of hill   April 2nd, 2008 12:04 pm ET

When we were younger our parents and society taught us to play by the rules…Someone forgot to teach hat rule to all.
Dean set the example dont change the directions .Do not seat the delegates

JAMES   April 2nd, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I am sick when America almost lets the Queen to advance her theft motives. How can she blame this mess on Obama when she knows she and the leaders of Fl and Michigan helped cause it?

I do not think she would make a good president. She must continue though until she is appropriately humbled by the young and intelligent Obama

Jack   April 2nd, 2008 12:01 pm ET

In Wyoming a oal of 8,753 votes were cast resulting in the awarding of 12 delegates. In Florida 1.75 MILLION votes were cast, resulting in 0 delegates. Where is this fair.

Only in America.

Charles   April 2nd, 2008 12:00 pm ET

I think people forget that when the DNC was making this decision to strip Fl & Mi Hillary waas the front runner and agreed with that decision. If you truely want those votes counted that was time to reject the decision by the DNC not when your behind and pretend that you want those votes counted for the good of the party.

d Garrere   April 2nd, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Common sense says divide the delegates equally so that they can weigh in on other issues at the convention and not affect the election. Sen. Obama did not even place his name on one ballot so why should Sen. Clinton benefit from the fact that she did? The rules were made clear ahead of time and what is to stop others from violating the rules next time around if their is no penalty??

Stop the Insanity!   April 2nd, 2008 12:00 pm ET

It's such a double edged sword!!

If you seat the delegates, it breaks the rules set forth by the party that everyone - including Mz. Clinton - agreed too. These states and the candidates knew the votes would be superficial only. They AGREED to do it anyways. Now the rest of us have to listen to this crap because the race is so close and Hillary needs the votes to MAYBE swing a win for the presidential bid.

If they don't seat the delegates, everyone ignorant Hillary supporter blames Obama and jumps on the McCain bandwagon (and for the love of God - has anyone bothered to listen to his policies, they're awful!! How could you even think about voting for him regardless??)

…. And Hillary loses the election because her very presence drives Republicans out to the polls to vote for her in state primaries and everyone else will stay home because it will just be the same old crap.

The race is over, Hillary should follow Mitt Romney's example and graciously step down. She is a powerful, smart woman and she is needed back at work. Hillary supporters who say they will go over to McCain's side - GET A GRIP! Stop acting like 6 years olds throwong a temper tantrum.

cjm   April 2nd, 2008 11:59 am ET

Rules are rules. Stand your ground Dean.

Talimee   April 2nd, 2008 11:59 am ET

Dean: Fix it now so there are no questions about who wins this nomination. The primary process is already a joke; at least try to make it legit in order to have a strong opponent against McCain. Count Florida and Michigan asap.

Common Sense   April 2nd, 2008 11:59 am ET

I love Obama. So Florida screwed themselves, I say they should vote their democratic and republican state officials out of office. Rules are rules…. It should not count.

AMY   April 2nd, 2008 11:58 am ET

Hillary agreed and Obama agreed not to count . Now lets change the rules - just because? Why is it that only the Democrats can change the rules? This is a sure sign of what is to come if you vote in a Democrat. Unfortunately McCain is no good either . Oh the games people play……

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   April 2nd, 2008 11:58 am ET

It needs to be resolved quickly I hope. Given that there was no control over the date of the primary by either campaign, there should not be any bickering about the re-vote ideas. There should only be concerns raised about how quickly it can be done as well as possible legal issues. If there is some concern over signatures, then state it. I believe that was done by the Obama campaign at one point.

Paul   April 2nd, 2008 11:58 am ET

The votes should count.

paul   April 2nd, 2008 11:57 am ET

The voters of both Fl and Michigan should not be disenfranchised.If this were a southern state that included a minority group of voters we would be saying it is fair. Well it is not a fair election if the DSemocratic leadership does not count all votes.

MELMARIE   April 2nd, 2008 11:56 am ET

JOHN KARSTEN TOOK THE WORDS RIGHT OUT OF MY MOUTH!!!
I JUST CAN'T SEE WHY THESE HILLARY SUPPORTERS CAN'T SEE THROUGH THIS SHADY LADY.

D.J.   April 2nd, 2008 11:56 am ET

I am appalled! I am a Florida resident and voter and voted for clinton! Its not the citizens fault for the changing of the primary voting date. So why should the citizens be punished for what the stupid elected officicials in the state capital concockted up without the citizens approval or forefront knowledge!? I SAY PUNISH THE LEGISLATURE AND GOVENOR FOR THEIR REPUBLICAN CRAP NOT THE INNOCENT DELEGATES OR CITIZENS! I deserve to have not only my voice but my vote count in the primary AND at the convention AND in november ! This was just another rooste the state republicans and SOME democrats cooked up to help the republican nominee! I AM SICK TO MY STOMACH OVER THIS SHERADE! I WARNED ALL U IDIOTS WHO VOTED FOR CHRIST AND FOR BUSH WHEN U DID ;IT WOULD COME BACK TO HAUNT THE NATION & NOW LOOK -IT HAS! ha ha u idiots..at least i can say i was right. AGAIN! as usual!

Debbie, NJ   April 2nd, 2008 11:56 am ET

Hillary did not win. How can you count a contest with only one player.
She got the Dems vote. She was the only Dem to vote for. Now we'll see who the delegates vote for. GO OBAMA!!!

wilnj   April 2nd, 2008 11:56 am ET

New Hampshire moved its primary up and wasn't penalized. Michigan senator Levin wrote this in a Ny Times Op-ed. Florida republicans changed the primary date, Fl. Dems had no choice.

Butch   April 2nd, 2008 11:56 am ET

Mi & Fl voters must not be deprived of their right to vote, so their delegates must be seated.

An Agnostic Democrat   April 2nd, 2008 11:55 am ET

Maybe Mr. Dean finally can show some leadership skills and settle this mess once and for all. It would be a real shame to see all the hard work he's done over the years to build Democratic support in nontraditional demographics go to waste over such a contentious issue.

thanks jo   April 2nd, 2008 11:54 am ET

The Edwards are good people and I admire them.

I applaus efforts to salvage this travesty.

But when the opposition set out to destroy Hillary Clinton and got the support and approval of the DNC and the party… they violated the voters and they betrayed our trust in Democracy.

We will stick with Hillary and then we will go over to McCain- until our party- the party of the people- learns not to swiftboat its best hope for America to pander to highly vocal minority opinions.

John   April 2nd, 2008 11:54 am ET

I believe the Public is being mislead with this mess why can't Hillary and Obama discuss this issue maybe during a debate present signed documents regarding who did said and signed off on this?

Mack   April 2nd, 2008 11:53 am ET

To all Obama supporters and naive young voters. You can not cheat your way to success like Obama is trying to do by not wanting to count FL and MI votes. Fl and MI voices should be heard.

NLC frm New York   April 2nd, 2008 11:53 am ET

The reality is that Senator Clinton should get her delegates from Florida and split the delegates from Michigan with Senator Obama regarding if they voted ahead of schedule or not. This looks like the Obama's campaign wants to take the nomination from Senator Clinton one way or another. Do not let this happen Florida and Michigan. I hope this gets posted.

Lisa   April 2nd, 2008 11:52 am ET

I am so sick of her crying. I wish she would wipe her nose and drive on like a true trooper.

Cynthia   April 2nd, 2008 11:52 am ET

Bottom line, the rules are the rules. But, I'm sure the DNC will have Florida and Michigan included in some form.

Chris in Columbus   April 2nd, 2008 11:51 am ET

Hillary only won because she violated the agreement with the party. Why isn't she penalized for this?

If Michigan and Florida are counted, absolutely nothing will change in the race. If they hadn't wanted to move, they'd be one of the most important primaries of them all.

Sorry guys, you screwed up, now pay the price.

Lisa   April 2nd, 2008 11:51 am ET

Why? She already knew they would not count. What is the deal?

maynard   April 2nd, 2008 11:50 am ET

dont these people understand,,,, they broke the rules now they must must must live with the results.

Nando, Florida   April 2nd, 2008 11:50 am ET

50/50 or nothing or these NUTS!!!!!

John Karsten   April 2nd, 2008 11:50 am ET

hope Dean puts these state level people in their place. Rules are rules and I am SICK of the QUEEN trying to steal this election. FL and MI, you allowed YOUR STATE politicans to do this and they are the ones to blame for your vote not counting, not Obama. I wish you people would get real. Educate yourself if you think I am lying. But we all know how the QUEEN works, so she will go down, loudly!

I support Barrack, and I have stopped watching the BS the queen spews everyday, so I will catch up with you all in the fall when the BS is over and she is out of the race.

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING ON CLINTON NEWS NETWORK????? POST ALREADY!!!!

Bond_Dallas   April 2nd, 2008 11:49 am ET

Rules are rules. I follow them, you follow them,, they must follow them. Especially them,,, they are in public service, they must show utmost adherence to the rules.
If these rules are changed now, they would favor one side and the other will cry foul. Let the rules be followed as was agreed upon.
About the delegates, split them in the middle to allow them to be seated in the DNC this august.

Tell them Dean, tell them.

Celia Ann   April 2nd, 2008 11:49 am ET

I live in Michigan and I did not vote because my candidate was not on the ballot and I was told the primary would not count because the State broke the rules. Senator Clinton, by my reasoning did not win and I take offense to her continually stating that she won.

Grif   April 2nd, 2008 11:49 am ET

Hillary Won… They should be talking with her…

IDLHilary   April 2nd, 2008 11:49 am ET

Mr. Dean,

Please make this a forgone conclusion that is known to both Candidates especially Hilary Clinton. No Michigan and no Florida. No recount and no seating. Hilary should stop being a political hack and stop saying they are denying your votes and their need your voice to be heard.

Lisa   April 2nd, 2008 11:48 am ET

Too bad so sad…No changing the rules half way through the game.

Robert in Toronto,ON   April 2nd, 2008 11:48 am ET

What I find unfair is the amount of sway now that having the Michigan and Florida votes carry when they should have been done long ago. This travesty should be done as long as their delegates are seated FAIRLY.

Robin   April 2nd, 2008 11:47 am ET

The people who simply showed up to vote in MI and FL should not be the ones who's vote don't count. I think the Party leaders who scheduled it early should be punished, not the citizens.

Mike   April 2nd, 2008 11:46 am ET

Since both Obama and Clinton's names were on the ballot, and neither campaigned there, and there was a record high turnout, it would be impossible for a campaign to argue that the result should not be tabulated as-is. Both candidates were on even footing, and almost everyone who would have voted did in fact vote.

WH   April 2nd, 2008 11:45 am ET

I hope they called in there to tell him he's fired. :)

julia   April 2nd, 2008 11:45 am ET

This is not about politicians or breaking rules anymore.

Revote in this states is the only way for either Obama or Hillary to reach nomination without superdelegates intervention.

I think it is just as much in Obama's interest to allow people in this state revote as in Hillarie's.
If their vote wont' count, then comes general election and these states will go republican.

Excuse Me   April 2nd, 2008 11:44 am ET

They're STILL meeting on this? Give it up. Follow the rules! 48 of the states were able to comply. Give us all a break and stop wasting our time with this and just accept the consequences and move on. You're acting like 2-year olds who don't get what they want.

M.S. Indiana   April 2nd, 2008 11:44 am ET

Play by the rules MI and FL…

Next move will be to re-vote in the states Obama won…. and then the other states to get the Clinton's to "win"

Brian - Trinidad   April 2nd, 2008 11:43 am ET

The rule was flawed to begin with.If you're going to throw the "rules are rules' bit at Florida and Michigan,you should also have the guts to tell them that you don't want their votes now or in November. Clinton has their votes,Obama didn't think he needed their votes,hence his noble 'abiding by the rules' position.But if he doesn't win Florida and Michigan,he can't be President.So he gets Dean to offer some kind of cock-eyed compromise.Not going to work in November,I bet.

SHARON-MN   April 2nd, 2008 11:43 am ET

I agree. Rules were agreed upon and made. The voters need to look towards their state leaders when pointing fingers. FL has had a long record of election problems.

Nas   April 2nd, 2008 11:43 am ET

It's almost like agreeing that no two piont conversations can be used in the game. Then at halt time you are losing and want the remainder of the game to have the two pont conversions. You can't change the rules half way through because you don't like where you are. They agreed and both states knew what would happen. This is real life-you break the rules then a punishment follows. ie-no delegates and your votes don't count. Deal with it!

Emma   April 2nd, 2008 11:43 am ET

Still wondering how long my comment will await moderation, forever? I hope not.

Anne   April 2nd, 2008 11:42 am ET

You people don't seem to understand. It wasn't the citizens of Florida that went against the rules, it was the state government. Why punish the people for rules that a few idiots broke? That's not fair. Let them vote.
What is Obama afraid of?

Victor   April 2nd, 2008 11:41 am ET

This race would be very different had both states followed the rule. My problem is Hillary claiming victory in states none of the front runners step foot in.

Legare   April 2nd, 2008 11:41 am ET

I agree with you all I wish they would stick to the rules but if they feel that they have to seat them, do it in a fair way that does not allow any candidate an advantage.

Disgusted at Ignorance   April 2nd, 2008 11:41 am ET

"The Clinton campaign – which won in both Florida and Michigan, which faced the same penalty – has pushed for both states’ delegations to be seated, with spokesmen accusing the Obama team of looking to “disenfranchise” voters."

The key words here are "disenfranchise" and "Clinton". Other rules don't apply when you bring these two concepts together.

Kevin   April 2nd, 2008 11:40 am ET

Why don't they meet with Obama? According to Billary supporters, Obama's the one responsible for this whole mess. Shouldn't they be meeting with him, seeing as how Obama is in charge of how the DNC operates?

Teresa   April 2nd, 2008 11:39 am ET

Dean, stand up to what's right. Don't let them bully you into changing the rules.

Legare   April 2nd, 2008 11:39 am ET

I just hope they figure out something that is fair to both candidates and it is stupid to suggest that Obama wants to disenfranchise any voters. The scare tactics being used are quite risky and it has no place in this nomination race, leave that to the republicans. I respect Hillary but I wish she would stick to the issues and keep the tone above the negative. Go Dems

Vote for Hillary   April 2nd, 2008 11:37 am ET

Hillary thinks she is above the law, she feels entitled to the presidency of this country and in her mind, which she has lost, she believes the people's voices do not count and she has said it many times, "this is personal."

she is totally divisive and I would not vote for such negative person, we need a leader not a joker for a president.

Floridian   April 2nd, 2008 11:36 am ET

My vote didn't count - it isn't Obama's or Hillary's or the DNC's fault, it is Florida's fault. We elected the dems and republicans that agreed to this fiasco of moving the primary up, so if anyone else is upset about their vote not counting, we should be voting out the people who are really responsible for the mess.

Golden Chica   April 2nd, 2008 11:34 am ET

Mr. Dean do your job and count the votes in Florida and Michigan. That's what democracy is about.

Robert J. and Marian Turner   April 2nd, 2008 11:31 am ET

The spokesmen for Obama team looks to "disenfranchise" voters? Is that true? Where is the proof? What does Obama say ? It is important to hear from him directly?

Chris   April 2nd, 2008 11:29 am ET

Florida and Michigan should not be allowed to come in at this late date and change the dynamics of the process. They chose to buck the system, they knew their delegates would not be counted. What is to stop other states from doing the same if they know nothing would happen in the end. That being said I do think a solution has to neogotiated which would not change the race.

Lauren   April 2nd, 2008 11:27 am ET

Dean stick to the rules. They are made for all not just a special few.

rj   April 2nd, 2008 11:25 am ET

How can it ever be fair? They should have followed the rules in the first place. Hillary should stop blaming the Obama campaign and start looking at the Florida and Michigan's state leadership for that bad decision.

Vivian   April 2nd, 2008 11:25 am ET

Why are politicians always wanting to change the rules?? And they probably will, once again. I have a hard time believing that either of them pondered the chaos that this could cause….They BOTH agreed that the delegates would not be counted…it should be a done deal.

Haley   April 2nd, 2008 11:25 am ET

I hope the Florida delegates get counted and the states votes get counted. It is not right to leave those two states out when they could be very crucial in November.

Go Hillary and Howard!

Michael Guinn- Ventura, CA   April 2nd, 2008 11:25 am ET

Hopefully a reasonable solution will be made that allows their seating but with PENALTIES as all Presidential conteders agreed. ALL Presidential contenders.

Kris In Atlanta   April 2nd, 2008 11:24 am ET

Sometimes it seems the DNC is completely out of touch with the average voter. Who put Howard Dean in charge anyway? If anyone is to blame for this mess, he is. And he should lose his position over it. How could he have not seen the danger coming in all this? Now we have a situation where a pivotal state's voters are once again facing the prospect of being disregarded. If a resolution cannot be reached, its only appropriate for Dean to resign.

linus   April 2nd, 2008 11:24 am ET

How about seating them as "uncommitted" delegates?

Debbie, NJ   April 2nd, 2008 11:24 am ET

Now let's see if Hillary blames this on Obama.

Oma   April 2nd, 2008 11:23 am ET

Will Florida ever get this voting thing right? How many times do they get to mess up the outcome down there?

DNC mess   April 2nd, 2008 11:21 am ET

If the DNC cannot resolve the Florida and Michigan vote disenfranchisement, you will witness Democrats leaving their party and becoming Independents. You may even witness candidates switching affiliations…before the general election.

Anonymous   April 2nd, 2008 11:18 am ET

Forty-eight states have FOLLOWED the rules. Michigan and Florida DID NOT. The votes of these two MUST NOT be counted for any PLEDGED delegates given that CLINTON and Obama were in agreement from the start - more than ten MONTHS ago. Not keeping one's word (candidate and DNC) is a fatal blow to their integrity and character.

JMS   April 2nd, 2008 11:17 am ET

Florida and Michigan should be seated 50/50. The voters are not to blame, its the state party reps. This way it does not influance the outcome and they still get a voice. If the voters are not happy about it then they need to vote the people responsible out. Obama is not trying to disenfranchise them. He just realized that the results would be help uo by lawsuits for months, possibly even after the convention.

Ed K.   April 2nd, 2008 11:16 am ET

The Democratic party better wake up and spend the needed money and have elections in Florida and Michigan. The DNC is crazy if they think they can win the general election by kicking two major states to the curb.

Fatima   April 2nd, 2008 11:14 am ET

I think that the Democrat Party should split the Florida and Michigan delegates equally since they insist on being counted even thought their officials did not play by the rules therefore, they are still punished.

sophia nyc   April 2nd, 2008 11:11 am ET

Hope he actually gets something done.

KiloWhiskey - Denver   April 2nd, 2008 11:11 am ET

Florida voters - the idiot children of the US!

Bob Stephens   April 2nd, 2008 11:11 am ET

i know this seems like an unreasonable request to the Democratic party, but how about sticking to the rules……

RFB   April 2nd, 2008 11:08 am ET

A 50 - 50 split should not be an option. This does not give the voters a voice, it is just a quick fix that means nothing.

Hillary 08   April 2nd, 2008 11:07 am ET

Same old Same old…………boring!

jj   April 2nd, 2008 11:07 am ET

all parties were on the ballot and there was record turnout-count what the votes were. MI is a different story, people say 50-50 but they forget Edwards would have received some if not the majority of the uncommited votes so that really wouldn't be accurate. Funny how it's only the Obama camp who says it should be 50-50 or none at all. I know I'll remember that in Nov along with a few hundred thousand others.

mike   April 2nd, 2008 11:07 am ET

I am so sick of Hillary Clinton!

Stephen   April 2nd, 2008 11:07 am ET

Whether it's 1/2 a vote, full vote or triple voe, if it's based on the beauty paegant contest, i.e., the January primary, it's a farce. There's no way that would be fair to Obama, or anyone else. It seems the only reasonable and fair solution is to apportion the deleagates 50/50. Yeah, that gives neither an edge - which is the way it should be, given the true results of a valid primary cannot be known - yet it gives the state representation in Denver, which is what they are seeking.

DS   April 2nd, 2008 11:05 am ET

FL and MI broke the rules, knowingly. And one does have to wonder if that was a strategic ploy? THe bottom line is that Florida and Michigan's state officials disenfranchised their voters: no one else.

Leave the ruling stand as is. Perhaps FL and MI should be allowed to rescind their votes for their state officials, who broke with the DNC law.

KC MO

PA   April 2nd, 2008 11:03 am ET

In PA Clinton had over a 20% lead in the polls before Obama started to campaign in the state. Now that has narrowed to 9%. This has been the pattern in every state in this contest. Had Obama campaigned in these early elections, he would have closed the voting margains with Clinton and received more votes thsn he did. He did not campaign in these states. To seat them as they are is not fair to Obama and his many supporters, but to not seat them at all, is unfair to Florida and Michigan voters. They need a revote or they need to divid them so that they do not effect the election.