May 30, 2008
Posted: 01:00 PM ET

From
Clinton's campaign is making it's Florida and Michigan case.
Clinton's campaign is making it's Florida and Michigan case.

(CNN) — A day before the DNC's Rules and Bylaws Committee is set to determine how to seat the delegations of Florida and Michigan, the Clinton campaign's chief lawyer said the committee is compelled to seat both delegations fully and not award Barack Obama any delegates from Michigan.

In a letter addressed to the co-chairs of the RBC, Clinton lawyer Lyn Utrecht said both states have already been sufficiently punished because of lack of campaign activity.

"It is a bedrock principle of our Party that every vote must be counted, and thereby every elected delegate should be seated," Utrecht wrote. "The States have already been punished because no campaign activity was conducted in Florida or Michigan. There is no requirement or need to punish their duly elected delegates who represent the 2.3 million voters in Michigan and Florida who participated in the nominating process."

Utrecht also made clear the campaign will not accept a resolution in Michigan that awards Obama any delegates, since the Illinois senator took his name off the ballot there.

"Neither the DNC Rules nor the Michigan Delegate Selection Plan allow arbitrary reallocation of Uncommitted delegates to a candidate or arbitrary reallocation of delegates from one candidate to another," he wrote.

The Clinton campaign also said Friday that former Michigan Gov. Jim Blanchard and Florida State Senator Arthenia Joyner will make the case for the campaign at the hearing Saturday.

Read full letter

Filed under: Hillary Clinton


Jumping Cholla   May 30th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

All this wailing and gnashing of teeth is just for show. The result is a forgone conclusion…Obama wins. The facesaving device will be Hillary exclaiming (with wide-eyed enthusiasm and exaggerated head nodding) that she was able to accomplish her goal — she got the delegations from FL and MI seated at the Convention. Isn't she grand.

Erin   May 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

"Utrecht also made clear the campaign will not accept a resolution in Michigan that awards Obama any delegates, since the Illinois senator took his name off the ballot there."

Are you serious? That's an all-time low for Hillary this campaign! While I've consistently said I will vote for whoever gets nominated by the DNC, Hillary is losing me. I cannot believe these die-hard Hillary supporters are still falling for these low-brow tactics.

proud army and navy mom   May 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Nobody cares what hillary is willing to accept. DNC do the right thing because if you bend to this idiocy you will have a lot more than hillary to worry about.

Michigan, if i was you all, i would petition for all or none. i will be darn if hillary receives one single delegate, than to receive them all illegally.
get your marching shoes ready. it's about to be ON!

jonny   May 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

She has no case. All her arguments are lies.

David from Bremen,Germany   May 30th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

CNN: WHEN ARE GOING TO UPDATE THE NUMBER OF DELEGATES OBAMA NOW HAS ?! THE NUMBER 1981 HAS AT LEAST GROWN UP TO 1984 !!! against 1782 FOR CLINTON !!

HILLARY CAN STAND THE HEAT SO SHE DOESN'T GET OUT OF THE KITCHEN EVEN WHEN HER CLOTHES HAVE CAUGHT FIRE.
BTW: GOOD PLAYERS KNOW HOW TO WIN BUT ALSO ACCEPT FAIRLY IF THEY HAVE LOST THE GAME. IN FACT THE WISDOM LAYS IN KNOWING THE RULES OF THE GAME. STRONG PLAYERS LEARN FIRST HOW TO LOSE AND ACCEPTING THAT THEY LOST.

Kaylee   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

It is a question of FAIRNESS…
How not giving even one vote to Obama is reflective of MI people's will or FAIR?

DNC should try their hardest to be FAIR. And, yes it is easy. Use commonsense to be FAIR. Everybody knows in their guts what is FAIR and what isn't.

BE FAIR…

Northern Canadian   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

When will it stop ?????? I guess they enjoy in their circus for other purposes….Hillary is SELFISH and CHILDISH….GROW UP….

I am glad that we found the ONE…Hey, OBAMA..I know you are strong and positive..ande also very intelligent. Hurrah!! Look forward to general election after June 3rd.. Good Bye, Hillary and her hillbillies and rednecks..

Jay Jones   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Waaait a minute…they've been punished enough already by lack of campaigning in their states?? That sounds like a reward to me, not a punishment.

One thing that never seems to get mentioned is that the pledge signed by all the candidates included a pledge not to "campaign or participate." This would seem to include keeping your name on the ballot. So Sen. Clinton's argument that "we had a choice whether to participate in MI, and Sen. Obama chose not to" doesn't make sense to me. If a pledge was made not to participate, then there is no choice anymore, and she should have removed her name from the ballot.

Sandy from Ohio   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

With what Clinton has pulled through this hole primary season if the DNC gives in to Hillary and Lets her cheat just like Bush in 2000 I will find another country to live in because this is not living in a fair country built on the premise that rules are rules. Why do the politician feel they are above the law Please show are children that even the adults have to follow the rules Please let that cry baby go cry some where else I'm sure the republicans would be glad to have her she is as crocked as they are

CT voter   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

So Obama won't get ANY delegate's from Michigan because he followed the rule's??? This is downright dirty…unbelievable…what a disgrace the Clinton name has become….

no edge is enuff   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Is there no end to what the media and the DNC will do to install Obama as the nominee, against the will of the people?

Stop handicapping Clinton. Stop adoring the puppet Obama. She has done good work for Americans…Obama has done nothing. Give us fair unbiased reporting…not blacks yelling that Obama is entitled.

Stop bashing Clinton.

She has every right to run and to take it to the convention…just like every other WHITE MALE candidate has had up to now.

Why advantage Obama by knocking Hillary out of the race. Haven't you sabotaged her, attacked her, denigrated her, and swiftboated her enough to give Obama the edge?

Laidetea   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

If the DNC decides not to reward anything to neither candidate and continue with the rules set forward, than its nothing HRC, Lyn Ultrecht, Bill Clinton, or the Federal Supreme Court can do. It's their ruling and their decision. Lyn Ultrecht can not tell the DNC what to do or do this or that. She doesn't make the rules. The DNC makes the rules.

Dmitriy   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Go Hillary.

Gloria   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

In this case I suggest you get ZERO delegates from Mich, hon!

HRC, you are so disgusting and DISHONEST! Shame on you!

4 more days and you will be history.. Can't wait to see that!

Ralph   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Venus May 30th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I wonder how much her total $-bill will be with all these people who work for her?

Next week - Hillary will be out of the news!

==============

Dream on….run as an Independent Hillary…if they GIVE the nomination to Obama!!

MC, Pa   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Where is the sense of fairness for those Clinton supporters? Will it make you feel better by punishing the one who follow the fules and play by the rules and award the one who cheats? How would you want to teach your children about following rules? I am so sick, sick of the "win by all means" Clinton tactics.

ken   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

All the Uncommitted are caste their vote for Obama …. Ask them…. Eventhough I don't support Obama…… They are going to vote for Obama ..

Go McCain….lol

Johnny Birchfield   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

The Democrats are done. Stick a fork in us and give us the award for shooting yourself in the foot. Democrats are DELUSIONAL if they think Obama is going to win the national election. Obama is a strawman and each day more and more dirt comes out on him.
As a Democrat I am also fed up with all the election hanky panky. I'm fed up with Pelosi, Dean, Reid and all the others who took impeachment off the table and didn't accomplish anything over the past couple of years in congress other than to give us more of the same.
Not only are the Democrats not going to win the Presidential election, they are also going to loose their majority in Congress. Yep, you saw it here first from one of the best political analyists not in the business. John Q. Public. News you really can trust.
Fear not…Jack Cafferty will be leading the charge of "Blame Hillary!!!" Obamanites when the Dems suffer a miserable loss in November.

buckeye in GA   May 30th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Stop the Spin:

Obamabots don't want the votes counted in FL and MI. End of story PERIOD!
======================================================

I'm sorry, but that's just not true. I am an Obama supporter, and I, like Sen. Obama, *do* want the delegates seated. But the method that Sen. Clinton is propsing is unfair. I say, seat both states 50/50, or at least give the uncommitted MI votes to Sen. Obama and Sen. Clinton can have FL and her MI votes. Either way, though, she can't overtake his lead.

By the way, I find the term "Obamabot" offensive. I am not a robot and I am not "blinded" by anything Sen. Obama says. I am making an intelligent choice to support him.

Del   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

who does this woman think she is ? ? why does she think everyone has to bow down to her no matter what she does? are these people that scard of her and billy? have they all been bought, bribed or blackmailed by the clintons. there is no one on this so called committy that has not said or thought the same thing the peacher said, he is right and everyone knows it. please someone send her home , , where ever that is she seems to be "from" every state she's been in. no one wants the clintons and surely not our Country. I'm not an Obama fan either and not at all happy with McCain.
Obama would do better with roseie O'donald or rose ann barr for Vp then hillary.

CPL   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Florida and Michigan should have their delegates halved as per the DNC rules. But if they follow the DNC rules, IOWA, NH, and SC should do the same. The waiver that was granted to those three states was as "against the rules" as Fl. & Mi. moving their dates up. Half delegates, and no supers for all 5

KateLynn   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Samantha Powers was right. Hillary is a monster!

RB TX   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

We agree 100%. No one told Obama to take his name off the ballot in Michigan. All delegates Hillary won in Michigan should be seated and none for Obama.
Obama is a believer in Black Liberation Theology and supports anti American comments against the so called oppressors(White America).
Stop playing the blame game.

Go Hillary, Go Hillary

Kingsley Okere   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Take it or leave it, Hillary is out to play a spoiler game. She has an accord with Bush family and has not hidden it. Her next act will be to drag the issue to the court of law. However the Democratic Party has given in too much to her. I will hold them responsible for any division in the party arising from the meeting tomorrow because it is uncalled for in the first place. An organization that worths her salt should make a rule and stand by it. Reconsidering the rule that has already been agreed to by all the contestants before is unfair. What happens to John Edwards votes? Democratic party leaders should rise up and stop this nonsense now.

Paul   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Take it all the way to the convention Hillary, or run Independent!!

Yes you will!!

Paul   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Hillary is a Republican. Bill was, too. Who has been better at building a Republican majority?

Emma, San Jose, CA   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

The hole she is digging for herself is getting deeper and deeper.

Gemmeg   May 30th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

The worst is about to come. Nobodody can mess with the clintons. I feel sorry for Obama.

Terrence (Winston Salem, NC)   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

"…the campaign will not accept a resolution in Michigan that awards Obama any delegates…"

———————————————————————————————–

Clinton's argument is that she wants EVERY VOICE to be heard/counted. Do she really think that 0 (zero) people in Michigan would not vote for Obama? WOW.

How is that solution a fair reflection of the people's voice?

ken   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

lol…………..It is getting better for McCain. I love McCain…. You are on the way to WH…..

Go McCain…

D'Anne   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

If the Clinton campaign and its supporters cannot recognize right and wrong, fairness and unfairness, they are so much more far gone than any Obama supporter. I have never seen so much hypocrisy in my life. I had nothing against Hillary Clinton, but she has lost so much of my respect…and bloggers want to say Obama has a history of "dirty politics…" PLEASE, can we get real.

Josie Everett   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

This is enough! She would be a tyrant if allowed to be President. I lost respect for her a long time ago-now she scares me. EGO-MANIAC.

Nick   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

THERE DELGATES WERENT GOING TO BE SEATED IF THEY WENT EARLY AND THEY DID IT ANYWAY, WHY IS THIS EVEN AN ISSUE.

HILLARY CLINTON IN 08-DESTROYING THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY NOW AND FOR THE FORSEABLE FUTURE.

PT WI   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

What about the 48 states who played fair, didnt break the rules..!!
I would be OUTRAGED if Clinton manages to squirm her way through a closed crack!

YOU BROKE THE RULES!!!! DEAL WITH IT!!!!

AND dont blame obama!! Clinton signed the same statement.. Cant you see that she's manipulating the whole system to suit herself?
She doesnt care about you, she ONLY CARES ABOUT YOUR VOTES!

IF SHE CARED ABOUT YOU, SHE WOULD WANT TO INCLUDE VOTES FROM THE CAUCUS STATES… BUT THEY DONT COUNT IN HER POPULAR VOTE ARGUMENT! OH AND NEITHER DID THE "SMALL STATES" UNTIL SHE FOUND HERSELF LOSING..

WAKE UP!

steveda - poconos   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

WOW … the nerve of this woman to try and steal the election in broad daylight! Democratic party we are all watching…. you better do the right thing here and not allow these illicit primaries to have any soignificant sway in the nomination process. Counting the votes might seem to some fair, but you have to consider the number of people that didn't vote because they knew it wouldn't count. In addition,. since there was no campaigning, the voters were not overly well informed about the candidates - specifically the newcomer Senator Obama who was not a household name in January.

Seat the delegations at 50% - as their penalty for moving the election, and then split the delegates in some fair manner, perhaps giving Hillary a slight edge, but certainly not the 100% she is seeking.

OHIO   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Hillary you better pray you get the nomination. Because if you do not your political career is through. You will not even get a job as dog catcher.

Objective Mike from Illinois   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

By the way….

"Fifty percent (50%) of New York Democrats say it's time for Senator Hillary Clinton to drop out of the race for the White House. Just 43% believe she should keep going."

This is in her own freaking backyard! People are fed up with this woman.

Paul   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Obama is neither a Pauper Prince or Lady Diana for the common people. He is the Pied Pieper of Hamilin and will lead this nation into doomsday!

I will never vote for him!

carolflowery   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

McCain/Jendyl 08

waschulze   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Pure lunacy and the height of hypocrisy. How, in God's name, does this make any sense to anyone? Essentially their point is "The rules don't count, because…"

Breaking rules without any ramifications? What about laws? Same apply there?

Apply this generally and what do you get?

+ I get 15 points for a touchdown because that's better than 6;
+ I get to force myself into the front of the line because I don't want to wait;
+ I get to run the red light because I need to be someplace sooner;
+ I get to cheat on my taxes because the government doesn't represent my needs;
+ I get to commit adultery because I like that way that other person looks better;
+ I get to torture prisoners because the Geneva convention is too lenient;

AND

+ I get the delegates because it's the only way I even get close to winning.

Our society is based on rules, regulations, and laws. It's the basis for order and (something close to predictability). And on top of this, you say YES to the rules to begin with, then NO when it doesn’t suit you? Guess this is pretty much how you expect to run our country? No thanks! We’ve already had 7.5 years of an Administration that doesn’t play by the rules. We can’t afford another 4.

Give us a break.

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   May 30th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

WHY SHE HAS LOST AND CAN NOT BE PRESIDENT IN MY BOOK!

Bush, McCain, GOP and CLINTON voted to send 4100 troops to there death and for what? That is the real story here!

1. Is Iran stronger or weaker since Bush/McCain's invasions of Iraq?

2. Has Osama bin Laden been killed or captured since Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

3. Are we paying more for gas now or before Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

4. Is our economy better of now or before Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

5. Is the White Houses creditability better now or before Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

6. Is the budget deficit higher now or before Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

7. Is the Middle East more peaceful now or before Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

8. Do we have more American Solders dead or before Bush/McCain's invasion of Iraq?

This WAR has cost us so much; it is unbelievable that damage that Bush administration has done to this nation. The saddest thing about this WAR most of the American cannot comprehend what has happen during the last seven years of this administration. Further, McCain wants to go down the same road as well disgruntled Hillary supporters! Go figure the blood of these solders are on your hands!

draka   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I think the RBC hearings should not be open to the public. This will further deepen the divisions within the party, thanks to the media who will have a field day, come Saturday.
Also, the Clintonistas should come to terms with reality. How can one not award delegates to Obama and see that Clinton gets all her delegates in Michigan? It defies all accepted norms of decent behavior. The sooner this ends, the better for the democrats in Fall.

kv   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

what about my mother who lives in michigan and wanted to vote for barrack obama? what about her vote, huh hillary? what about my disenfranchised 75 year old white mother? i supported your husband and even supported you in the beginning but now you literally make me ill.

CONNIE   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

This is as far as my contributions go. I'm not sending in money to be spent on lawyers.

Ross in Indiana   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

There is one simple question. Did the Clinton campaign sign on to play by the rules originally laid out? If so show them their signiature and send them home.

Terri   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Crazy People who support Hillay should be shame.

Any SD that comes out for Hillary at this point or after June 3rd should lose thier position.

OBAMA should get no delegates AT ALL?????????? and some people actually agree with these.

OH by the way I agree with Rev. Pfleger keep telling the truth it will set us all free.

Kaylee   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

DNC be FAIR

and every body knows what FAIR is despite what they advocate…even this shameless lawys who is paid to be UNFAIR (by definition)

BE FAIR

beyond belief   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Can this get any worse? What a loathsome woman….She didn't give a hoot about either of those states until she began losing. This is sick that the subject is even up for discussion……but, up is down and left is right in this crazy immoral country we call the U.S……She will get her way - kicking, clawing and crying all the way to the convention. The CNN pro-Clinton crowd will continue to trash Obama through pastors he doesn't know, stretched stories and blatant lies drummed up by the Clinton Campaign. I'm so sick of this - just give her the election already and end our suffering. She will cheat her way past McCain also. What a witch.

What?   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

There should be Fight Club style arenas set up for the Obama supporters and The Clinton supporters to duke it out. This whole, 'insult each other from the comfort of your keyboards' thing is ridiculous.

Joe   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I guess the one thing this lawyer has a hard time doing is saying why it was that Senator Clinton supported the DNC's position to not seat the Florida and Michigan delegated until after the South Carolina primary? Doesn't this sound vaguely familiar … "I was for it before I was against it"?

Truth is Hillary Clinton never saw Barack Obama's campaign taking off. Once it did, she was like a deer caught in the headlights and she has done everything possible to secure a nomination that she thought was due to her simply as a result of her last name.

I don't buy it. As much as I hate to say it, but if the DNC is stupid enough to move the goal post in the final minutes of the game, then a lot of new voters particularly will "smell a rat" and stay at home and never trust the Democratic party again. Sadly, I'm not sure that Hillary Clinton cares about that. At times, her actions seem to say if she can't win the presidency, she'd just as soon not see a Democrat elected.

Do the right thing. Play by the rules. Rules that even the Clinton campaign agreed to.

NoMcSame   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

She moved to NY, set up shop and told them that she will run for Senator.
She won and now she thinks that she is intitled to be president and wants Obama to move aside to let her in. Well the buck stops here Billary. Obama will be our next president so you can go run for some other party but it will not be on the democratic.Obama08

Go Obama   May 30th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Too late now for it to matter.

We all know who won. We know Clinton is the better choice.

The media and blacks and the young created a propaganda machine to carry the Obama celebrity bandwagon this far.

The DNC feels stuck with their Obama choice and is doing everything possible to screw Clinton out of the nomination.

No white male was ever asked to quit prior to the convention where the nominee is selected. Those white men were far behind in delegates and they were exercising their right.

Why is it different for HRC?

She has the same rights… and is in a much tighter race.

Raz   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

If I had a little respect to Clintons, they lost it. That's SICK.

Raz

Mike Jones   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

In my favorite Yoda voice. "desperate, you are"

Dal CA Republican   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

I see a problem. There are rules and rules are either adhered to or not. If we do not adhere to the rules we become a 3rd world democracy.
The rule in this case was if you move forward the primary the results will not count.
All the candidates signed off on that rule. Now as Hillary is not winning she wants all those votes counted and given to her. At the beginning of the race she was the favorite candidate to win the election. out of blue this charismatic black dude comes in and is leading in all counts. Hillary and her ex president Bill has been playing the race card at every step to get the votes. They have succeeded in some States and not in others.
In my opinion the DNC should follow their rules to resolve this problem created by the candidate who does not want to follow rules and regulations. If she is not doing that at the election time, will she not change the rules if and when she is in power.

bill from pa   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Leave it to the dumbocrats to jeopardize a sure win in November. And you want us to trust you running the country. What a joke

Belle   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

By the way YOU IDIOTS…Clinton did NOT break the rules by leaving her name on the ballot in MI. NOR did Obama by taking HIS name off. THOSE ARE THE RULES

Ralph   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Obama is the one that is known for cheating his way to winning!!!!

Go Hillary and Utrecht.

Take it all the way to the convention!!

CLINTON SUPPORTER   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

We wouldn't be where we are today if the news media hadn't withheld Rev. Wright's controversial (and sick) remarks. It was on the internet MONTHS before the media reported it. I bet there are many who voted for Obama who wish they knew then what they know now.

GO HILLARY, GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cynthia   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

We all know that Senator Clinton would not be fighting for MI & FL if she did not need the votes. Why did she not do this in the beginning when they were first told that they would not be included? Why did she sign the agreement along with the other candidates? When Senator Obama won Iowa which if I remember correctly started the eleven in a row , that is when she started her barrage of things that did not matter - small states, small wins, caucases, the list goes on and on. Both campaigns should accept whatever the DNC ruling is and move on. For those saying that the won't vote if Senator Obama is the nominee - I hope that you will change your mind. Otherwise, you help to put the country in more peril. The war in Iraq needs to end before more people lose loved ones, more men and women come home with post traumatic stress syndrome, commit suicide, and your great, great, great, great grandchildren have to pay for a war that they will know nothing about .

mark   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

There are two problems with Clinton's lawyers' arguments:

First, they are completely disingenuous. Sen. Clinton agreed to the rules. Now that the rules have not worked to her favor, she has become a champion of "disenfranchised voters". She should be ashamed.

Secondly, even if the argument were successfully argued, Sen. Clinton would not win the nomination thereby.

At this point in the campaign, Sen. Clinton serves only pride and ambition. There is little honor left in the effort.

Fitzgerald   May 30th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

So she thinks she should be rewarded for cheating and he should be punished for following the rules.

austbill   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

People can gripe and complain all thery want, their is no better candidate running for president than Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Go Hillary Rodham Clinton!!!!

Phong Nguyen   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

The RBC and DNC should atone for their mistake by re-confirming the voting results of Michigan and Florida; otherwise, they should get ready to pay for their mistake in November!!!

Mel   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

This lady is going to be crazy if super delegates don't come and pack her baggage's and send her to her home early. For the sake of her safety it should be done soon.

Todd   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

You do not adjust the rules in mid-game.

Hillary is acting like a spoiled child. She is basically saying if I don't get my way, I'm going to stomp my feet and hold my breath until I turn blue.

So treat her like a child, either ignore her or put her over your knee and spank her bottom.

Pete   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Good for them. It is time we had a fighter in the party. With approval ratings lowere than President Bush I don't see how Nancy Pelosi has any right to intervene. Afterall, we have seen her leadership in Congress. HIghest gas prices, a continuing war in Iraq, Spending out-of-control,and the inability to reign in a lame duck President. So, as far as I am concerned Pelosi can take her judgements elsewhere.
The Democratic party is on the verge of making yet another historical mistake. Just like the party refused to push the fight for Al Gore, they in turn are doing the same thing to Hillary Clinton. If it were not for the party "elders" and the likes of Howard Dean, we would not be in this mess to begin with. Obama is right…we need change. It needsz to be sweeping change.How many of his suppporters are willing to sweep in change in their congressional districts. It is time the government to "work" again. That is why I will vote for Hillary Clinton in the fall. I urge her supporters to write her name on the ballot and send a messasge to the democratic party. A message that says we want FAIR leadership and a modernized party. But that is unlikely to happen so I should prepare myself to sit at home and watch John McCain's inauguration.

JJ   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Wow. I truly believe Hillary will take this thing to court if she doesn't get her way on Saturday.

Jeb   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Fun watching the dems run against each other.

They don't know who to cheat.

May the best cheater win!!

Belle   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

How can ANY Obama supporters possibly call Clinton a cheater AFTER the way Obama won the State Senate Race in IL?

He is disgusting. So go by the RULES. Obama took his name off the Ballot. He gets NO VOTES according to the rules.

Screw the DNC "rules committee"….take it to the Convention FLOOR and have BOTH states appeal to the Convention Committee to be seated fully.

THOSE ARE THE RULES!!!

After the latest Rev. from Trinity, and how Obama won the State Senate you can FORGET about a vote for Obama.

Hillary or McCain

fafa   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Good point, BIFF

Mary K   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

The Clintons have no ethics or morals whatsoever–who would vote for these people anymore?

Clinton signed a pledge supporting this panalty–what is her singature worth?

USAF Ret   May 30th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

When I was on active duty we would have put this letter in file 13–the garbage can.

Mikey   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Obama is the only hope for the Democratic party. Outside of the die-hard Clinton faithful, very few people would cast a vote for President of the United States for a candidate with the distorted view of fairness evidenced evidenced by the letter attached to your article.

It's pretty clear now, that it is either Obama or McCain. Obama has won fair and square in accordance with the rules set forth at the beginning of this campaign. Allow Hillary to steal it and we lose not only the Presidency, but many down-ballot races.

Fortunately, the DNC knows this and will not commit mutual Democratic Party suicide. It will be over after tomorrow. Hillary can take it to the Convention, but will lose there as well, at the probable cost of her Senate seat and both her and Bill's legacy.

This sad situation did not have to be. HRC gets 100% of the blame.

al snyder   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Isn't she in debt up to her ears? Who are the suckers paying for this? The economy is said to be bad, but that doesn't stop people from throwing away their money to support a multi-million dollar liar. You know the saying, there is a sucker born every minute?

john williams san diego, ca.   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

a typical clintonista lawyer. Obama follows party rules, takes his name off the ballot and lyn utrecht says that he should receive no delegates…sounds fair for hillary but not America…WE REJECT YOU HILLARY…GO AWAY..GO AWAY..

Carl   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

I hope they don't remember how she signed a pledge saying they wouldn't count and declared on TV that she knew the votes would not count. OOPS!!

But it wouldn't be politics unless there were "mistakes" and "lies" oh I mean misspeaks. cough cough Bosnia cough cough

D'Anne   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

WHose really been drinking the "kool-aid…?'

If the Clinton campaign and its supporters cannot recognize right and wrong, fairness and unfairness, they are so much more far gone than any Obama supporter. I have never seen so much hypocrisy in my life. I have nothing against Hillary Clinton, but she has lost so much of my respect…and bloggers want to say Obama has a history of "dirty politics…" PLEASE, can we get real.

Connie   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Clinton said, it took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush. Bill Clinton got in and defiled the white house. Bush Jr. stole the election in 2000. Now Clinton is trying to steal the election and follow Bill pattern.

Do we see a pattern in these two families?

Chuck   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

If Hillary is not willing to give Obama the 40% uncommitted votes in Michigan because his name was not on the ballot then she should at least agree to have those 40% uncommitted votes deducted from the 60% votes she received. The 40% uncommitted did not vote for her after all and in many cases were voting against her. That would give her 20% and not the 60% she received or the 100% she is requesting.

Jodi   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

I am sick of hearing how if Obama is the Nominee he ill loose so the democrats should give the Nomination to Clinton because she can win. NO she can't and here is why;
1. The DNC say that the person who gets the most delegates is the nominee - as far as I can see Obama is the person.
2. If the DNc were to go against that rule and award Clinton the Nomination most of Obama's supporters would feel robbed and pissed enough to;
1. Not vote
2. Vote for McCain
3. Vote Independent.
In essence neither can win without the others supporters. All Clinton supporters are trying to hijack this process by saying we will make sure Obama looses if you do not go against the rules and give Hillary the nomination. Well if Obama is to Loose let him loose and he will loose not because he is not electable or not because he is incapable of doing the job. It will be because a lot of you spiteful, and hateful people will sell your future and your children's future just to prove a point and for nothing else. I am a registered independent and I was not going to vote for Obama, but after I saw the behavior of all the Clintonites I understood what Obama had to overcome from the beginning and I thought if he had to come from NO connections in big politics, no political machine and he is able to overcome, then he will do great things for this country.

we want Clinton   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Who cares about these votes at this late date?

We all know, they want Clinton.

We all know Obama lawyered up to block a revote.

We all know Obama is being installed as the democratic nominee by the DNC.

We all know that the best candidate is HRC- and she has been attacked by her party and the media….. just for running.

We all know the media is afraid to counter the likes of Roland Martin always spewing pro- Obama and anti-Hillary comments.

We want Clinton.

Proud1of 26% in WV   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Any lawyer can make a case.That don't mean that it does any good.If the DNC is affected by these extortion attempts of the Clinton campaign then they can kiss the general election good-bye.Obama has more than just the African American vote.It would be like 1968 on steroids.How fair is a primary with 350,000 to 0.And 0 delegates?

AK   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

It is amazing that whenever a situation doesn suit Obama, all the Obama supporters do is trash Hillary and tell her to go away. Thye have been saying go away Hillary since Feb however she has won the majority of contests since then, is neck and nekc with Obama in the popular vote category and of course the fact that she overtakes hime and beats him if MI and FLA are seated scares the Obama fans, Grow up, this is politics not a fairy tale!

Delores   May 30th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Lord help her! Yes, it's good NOT being a quitter. However, there comes a time reality HAS to kick in.

Hillary: "It's O-V-E-R!!!!"

Please get off the stage. The curtains have closed…The music has stopped…The audience has departed. With grace and dignity, leave the area. No MORE DRAMA.

"Poooooof! Be Gone!"

saddened   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

This is the lowest day in the Hillary Clinton Campaign. She has sunk to the lowest level. She is telling our children that when they break the rules, it is okay once somebody they like benefits. I hope that the DNC is not intimidated or they will lose. If they succumb to Hillary, I will be the first to vote for McCain
What a disgrace!!!

fafa   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I have a gut feeling this will end up badly. Roland Martin may be right afteral. Imagine Clinton getting the nomination and asking Barack to be his VP. hahahahahaha

BTW forget Ferraro. Just a very bitter person.

Tyrone Brown   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

The DNC decision tomorrow must acknowledge and respect the fact that 48 other states waited their turn and played by the rules.

D'Anne   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Talking about whose really been drinking the "kool-aid…'

If the Clinton campaign and its supporters cannot recognize right and wrong, fairness and unfairness, they are so much more far gone than any Obama supporter. I have never seen so much hypocrisy in my life. I have nothing against Hillary Clinton, but she has lost so much of my respect…and bloggers want to say Obama has a history of "dirty politics…" PLEASE, can we get real.

John   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Hillary should go all the way, go independent, since many of her 'friends" have jumped ship, and obama H. fans are so righteous. Hillary Clinton should dropped the donkey party and run for the election, if not elected, forget about be a senator for the donkey party. Since this election have shown the world that certain people are racist, and many so called educated people want man to get the job, regardless of how inexperience and unclear and questionable back ground this man has.

Jennifer W.   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Hillary- the more you do this, the more you tear apart the party. You have cried Foul, Sexism, Reverse Racism (see Gerarldine's latest gaff below) and now you actually want Michigan to award NO delegates to Obama? And you claim this is all in the spirit of treating voters "fairly"?! Do NOT turn this into another Florida 2000- although you are fast on your way to doing just that. You might as well start campaigning for Mccain, since thats essentially the effect all your actions are having.

Ian, Laurel, MD   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I just can't figure out how CNN can constantly bring up Clinton's fight for the "civil rights" of Michigan and Florida without really pointing out how Clinton can be quoted as against them counting.

I mean, seriously, she doesn't even acknowledge it. The supporters don't even seem to realize that she said these things.

CNN really needs to make this part of the story.

Amy   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

She signed a paper saying she agreed to the DNC ruled re. MI and FL way back. She even verbally stated that she agreed their delegates shouldn't be seated.

I don't see a problem. She agreed to the rules so make her abide by them like everyone else (except those in the Bush Admin - interesting how similar her campaign is to Bush's in 2000 and 2004).

MICHAEL JIMENEZ LYTLE, TEXAS   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Seat all the delegates! Go Hillary Go! All the way to the convention…If you are not the Nominee, you should run as an Independent…If you are not on the Democratic Ticket, I will still write your name in for President!

Schalaine Ellisor   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Why won't you go away????????????????????

OhioForHillary   May 30th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Biff - the sympathy vote is an overwhelming 92% vote from a specific demographic.

the argument is clear, the party needs to seat them as they voted or they need to not seat them at all (and concede that they are disenfranchising 2.3 million voters) and pretty much give the states to McCain. Either seat them fully, including no delegates for Obama from Michigan (remember he took his name off the ballot and at least half those voters were probably for Edwards, Richardson, et al) and Obama will still be ahead anyway or don't seat them at all… in reality that is their choice.

D'Anne   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Talking about drinking the "kool-aid…'

If the Clinton campaign and its supporters cannot recognize right and wrong, fairness and unfairness, they are so much more far gone than any Obama supporter. I have never seen so much hypocrisy in my life. I have nothing against Hillary Clinton, but she has lost so much of my respect…and bloggers want to say Obama has a history of "dirty politics…" PLEASE, can we get real.

Tim   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

40% of Michigan primary voters showed up to vote "uncommitted" on the primary day. 40% of voters there actually took time out of their busy lives to show up and make a statement that they did not support Hillary Clinton as the party's nominee. If she is given all MI and FL votes she rightfully earned and Obama is not awarded a portion of the uncomitted votes it would be a scam greater than the 2000 election mess. I agree that all votes should count, but that certainly includes those who specifically voted against Clinton. The only way for her to claim that she won the popular vote is to take both MI & FL and deny Obama anything in MI.

Mary   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Several prominent civil rights attorneys have stated that Democrats must fully seat the FL and MI delegation or face criminal proceedings. They also listed case law before the Supreme Court to back up their opinion.
Count all the votes. Seat the delegates as the popular votes indicates.

Senator Orlen Spector stated he might set up congressional hearings on this.

Ted from Florida   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

As a Floridian its not about Obama or Clinton its about every vote should count the last I look Florida was in the United States .I sick of Obama supporters they broke the rules .Well the voters of Florida didn't break no rules we went and voted on our primary day like everyone else .You Obama supporter seem to forget that several prominent DEMS raised the money for Florida and Michigan to have a revote and Obama wouldn't sign off on it .If you Obama voters think he can win the general election without Florida you are all on crack !!!

Beverly, NYC   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Gloria Steinem must be so proud!!! Didn't a judge already boot this out of court? They can write all the letters they wish until someone take the oath of office in January 2009. It won't change the fact that Hillary LOST. Her johnny come lately outrage to have every vote count is just pathetic. Where was the outrage Hillary when you signed a pledge not to campaign in those states or count their votes. OH yes I remenber you were the winner then. The Republicans have already punished both states and reduced their delegates by half, don't hear anyone screaming its unfair. Never thought I would see the day when republicans appears more rational. June 4th can't come too soon. Independence day from queen Hillary and her court.

goofus   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Hillary Clinton/Jim McGreevy '08 !

Chris   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Biff..your ignorance amazes me. If you think that her gender does not affect her then I'd say you are very uneducated. Someone's gender can affect them just as much as their race. You cannot say that Clinton has been receiving a "sympathy" vote and Obama has not. You do not have numbers to prove that either of them have received a "sympathy vote," therefore, your point is not valid.

Jay   May 30th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

This whole issue is not only potentially ruinous, but overtly pathetic. Chasing one's tail at the cost of destroying the overall message that I think the majority of (well, as of last count, 71%) Americans would like to see fulfilled in November is an inherent travesty. Perhaps folks should just accept the fact that Obama is flat-out smarter than Hillary. Hillary is no fool by any means, obviously, but Obama is just that bright. Either way, it'll be nice to have a President back in charge who possesses a functional IQ.

Unhinged HRC folks - please explain this to me. One of the fundamental arguments being made on her behalf is that Obama is not as 'electable,' and that's partially because he is too inexperienced to run a 'tough' campaign when it's necessary. That's been the battle cry for weeks now.

So, please reconcile this so-called 'fact' with the latest punch line of "Obama fights dirty" in regards to the signature challenges from 12 years ago. Not only is what he did then within the rules, exactly as he is now, but that's some pretty tough, old-school-style Chicago politics there. Not to mention, where did he or his aids run afoul of the law and pre-agreed-upon rules in moving this strategy forward?

Seems that like HRC herself, who agreed to the MI/FL rules and now suddenly (when she's about to lose) doesn't, her supporters can't have it both ways.

Regardless of how this plays out, the overriding desire remains - get someone in the White House who will execute a complete 180 on every single disastrous policy that's been enacted since 2000. Hopefully all Americans can focus on that soon.

Ed from Milwaukee(WI-Swing state)   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Why is this news? The rest of the country is ready for the general election so we can see the debates of McCain and Obama. Who cares about HRC at this point and her bizarre math and ridiculous claims? I only hope she doesn’t start crying after this weekend when she doesn’t get what she wants. Or maybe she will try to find her voice again like in New Hampshire!

EJ   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

One would never know that Senator Clinton as well as all the candidates who were involved at the time the penalty was stated months ago had all agreed on the sanctions. Now because Sen. Clinton has no other way to even think about getting the nomination her lawyer lies and presents an entire new story and spin. LET'S NOT PUT IT PAST THE CLINTONS TO BE WIILING TO DESTROY THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY IF SHE DOESN'T GET THE NOMINATION. WHO WOULD WANT A VP OR ANY OTHER POSITION FILLED WITH A TEAM MEMBER LIKE HER.

marylee wagerman atlanta,ga   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

CNN WE HAVE A NOMINEE

STOP COVERING BILLARY

Independent   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Clinton is the best of the three current choices.

McCain is a poor choice and Obama is even worse.

We need a third option.

The Democrats have swayed too far left- and they have damaged their best candidate just to install their puppet, Obama.

I want Hillary to run as an independent.

ACH   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

And here she goes to, lie, cheat and steal her way in. If they give her the Democratic Nomination beacsue that's just what they will be doing. I am done with believing anything the government has to say. As for her people not voting if she does not win. Who's to say Obama's people wont vote or is it that our votes don't count anyway.

enoch needles   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Rules are for little people!!

christina   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Booooooooooooooo-Hooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo-Hoooooooooooooooooooooooo

GET OVER IT!

Obama '08

Hugh   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

It's amazing how what appears to be an intelligent person can be so stupid.

Ohio   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

It is all a farce - it does not matter - the media has corinated Obama - the college KIDS have corinated Obama - the black community has corinated OBAMA - the DNC have corinated Obama - we are splt even - this election has caused racist tensions - I really do not think either campaign camp is to blame - they truly have no racism in them - but I cannot say the sam about the cable media - pundits and us americans out here - I hope they are all right about this corination - because as I read and look Obama is no different than Clinton in policy - only difference is he is a male and she is a female - I have decided after this election to become an independent at the age of 48 - I do not like either party and whether it is Obama or Clinton I do not think much will change in washington - it truly is a sad state of affaris for America

Bruce   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

What a crock. Voters in both states were told the election did not count. So unless you want to count all the people who stayed home because of that, you can't count any of the votes. The primaries in those states bore no resemblance to free and fair elections. It looks like Clinton is saying she won't accept losing and will have to be pushed out.

Ron, LV   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

It seems that the only thing that is fair is what Clinton people say is fair. I was for seating half of them based on the vote, but with this latest stuff, I say don't seat any of them. The Clinton people are going to say they were cheated no matter what. Just delay the fight and let all the super delegates decide first. The it may not make any difference who gets seated in what proportion. Why have rules if no one is going to follow them? There were no complaints in when this was first decided, so go back to that time and stay with the decision.

Marc PDX   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Hillary may be underhanded in this attempt (Barak did the same kind of thing in his first election in Chicago, by the way) but she has a valid point: she is more electable in a general election than Barak. Barak did it to himself. He should have left his church when he first entered national politics. Not realizing this would become a problem in a presidential race is a huge case of inexperience and poor judgement. I used to think he was a refreshing candidate with a good outlook. But after the steady stream of anti-white racism coming from his church (including yesterday from Rev. Pfleger) I really no longer know what to think of him. I don't think he's a racist… but I'm no longer certain about that either. I can't for the life of me understand why he stayed there. If I had been in a church that preached anti-non-white sermons I would have been apalled and never gone back. I absolutely could not sit through that! I don't understand how Barak Obama could.

AaronC   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Viagra boy Dole is just mad that Scotty outsmarted them. It's inconvenient for him to remind people of Republican misdeeds close to an election. As far as Dole's fake "chivalry", that's DOA in the Bush administration anyway, because there is no honor among thieves. What does Scotty have to be grateful about from the Bush administration anyway, except perhaps that he now has the opportunity to publically expose their frauds and felonies? As to Scotty's character, Bush is the guy who hired him, so really that redounds to more bad judgment calls on their part. In any event, bittermouth Bob is just flapping his gums about style because he can't say anything of substance to refute the charges being made.

mjc   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

the reason carville was on hannity (and colmes is a decent guy if you mean the TV show). . is because MSNBC, CNN WILL NOT EVER HAVE CLINTON SUPPORTERS ON.

MSNBC is the OBAMA LOVE FEST network and its SICK.

these people are not journalists and should be ASHAMED of themselves. like little schoolgirls with a mentally unstable crush.

obama makes me sick.

Jerry   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Hillary lawyers go and take hike, you must be crazy go home Hillary it over with u done, we dont need any more negative campaign coming from you

Jim, Illinois   May 30th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Just a bunch of despicable cheaters. I do not trust the Clinton's because it's all about them.

Extinct   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Please look outside the box Hillary Clinton and Senator Dole. All of these recent McClellan/Michigan/Florida articles are opportunities that have been created within the Republican Party and Clinton Camp to discredit Senator Obama. The force and strength that Obama holds, sways and maintains, clearly overshadows not only Hillary but also McCain. Obama has become an icon and impetus in U.S. politics.

The only way that the Clinton Camp and Republican Party can have a "fair" presidential campaign based on tradition, old school rules and politics, is to get Obama out of the picture. Physical elimination of Obama would cause a meltdown in the U.S., remembering what happened in the case of Rodney King, multiplied countrywide. The only remaining option is to change Obama’s public perception by somehow attaching whistleblowers and party unfavorables to his professional image and counting illegally attained votes.

Dave   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

there is no freaking case. the rules were broken and there has to be consequences.

boered1   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

There is no requirement or need to punish their duly elected delegates who represent the 2.3 million voters in Michigan and Florida who participated in the nominating process."

Moronic Clintonista the REQUIREMENT is the RULE Clinton agreed to. All any JUDGE will have to do in this case would be to open the rules, see her signature and thorough and all the other Clintonistas out the door and vote to seat the delegates at the convention (no more than half) and give them NO vote on the candidate but allow them to vote on the platform. fair and by the rules.

Also you moronic Clintonista what about the 3.7 MILLION voters in FL and Mi who followed the rules and did not vote don't they deserve representation?

moronic clintonistas

Gary   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Here is an option to consider. The purpose at this point is to be fair to everyone- the candidates, Democrats in Fla/Mi, the states and Democrats in all of the other 48 compliant states.

Since Florida had both candidates on the ballot and they didnt hold a revote -so there will be still disenfranchised Democrats who didnt vote because they were told their vote wouldnt count. You must penalize the states for the rule violation of moving up their dates. Resolution- give Clinton 1/2 the delegates since she had 50% of the vote, give Obama the other 1/2. He had 33 % of the vote and the rest of the delegates would have been primarily, if not all, John Edwards' delegates and his support has since gone to Obama. I would then allow each of the Fla delegates to cast 1/2 a vote each at the convention. I would also penalize the superdelegates from Florida- by NOT allowing them a delegate vote. They can attend but not vote. These were the yahoos who caused all the problems.

As for Michigan. It is a major cluster *&*#. Since the math should be done by now and Obama leading the presumptive nominee numbers of delegates- I would give Clinton 55 % of the Mi delegates , as per her vote count in Mi, Obama 45 % of the Mi delegates and the Mi delegates would be entitled to 1/2 a vote each. NO Michigan superdelgates allowed to vote but can attend..

Chi4Obama   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

SOS to all Uncommitted Superdelegates:

STOP THE MADNESS..PLEASE!!!

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Christopher,

it is true that Obama won his first contest utilizing the RULES…

UM… DUHH…

"THAT" IS EXACTLY WHAT HE IS TRYING TO DO "NOW"…

Hillary is trying to CHANGE the rules..
THAT is the difference

(please try to keep upP

Suzanne   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

I think for the good of the party and our chances of winning the general election the DNC should give this horrible woman exactly what she wants. Then she has no basis for an appeal and cannot continue to undermine and highjack the election. Obama still has enough of a delegate lead if all of the superdelagates come out for him after the last election next Tuesday. The party can figure out another way to hold Michigan, Florida and the Clintons responsible for their inability to play by the rules after we have our nominee. This is too important for the good of our country to walk into this trap. Call her bluff.

Vee Robillard   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

On one hand, I'd love to see Hillary steal this thing from Obama, then summarily fall flat on her face come November. But knowing the Clinton's they'd find a way to blame others for the loss anyway.

Jared from Nashville   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

I definitely agree that votes from Michigan and Florida should count. However, how is it any way fair that Clinton receive all of the delegates for the state. That is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard in my life. Why was the Clinton campaign not so vocal about these votes a few months ago.

How could you demand that no delegates be awarded Obama after it was AGREED these delegates would not count so he took his name off the ballot. So who is really the group that is trying to "disenfrachise" voters. The Clinton's really had a good legacy up until these primaries (even with Monica Lewinsky and NAFTA). I had a great deal of respect for them and now it has quickly diminished. I thought being a sore loser was over with in elementary school. The only suggestion I have is that the Clinton's add another political party since the Democrats rules they once agreed on are no longer applicable to them.

enomisa   May 30th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

This good woman needs to fight to the convention.

if she continues to be screwed by her party, sabotaged by the DNC, and unfairly treated by the pro-Obama biased media, she needs to run as an independent.

The time for a third choice has come.

andy   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Hilary Clinton s position with regards to the Michigan delegates is very similar to that of a Communist Country where there is only one name on the ballot ……This is scary !!!

for realsies   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Also, can we just kick Fl out of the US? Or maybe keep them, but downgrade them to puerto rico status? For real….stop screwing up elections Florida.

Nick   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Blind ambition is a scary thing.

Dems Unite!!!   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Let's see, you as part of the govt expect us (the citizens) to follow and abide by the rules, so we as the people who elected you expect you to do the same. FOLLOW AND ABIDE BY THE RULES, nothing more nothing less!

Obama '08 + '12

Philly Kid   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

OK FINE
If it's war she wants, war she'll get.

Lisa (SWPA)   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

CNN
Do you think we can stop with all the Hillary nonsense??
All this "press" regarding her attempts to sabotage the nominating process with her slimy lawyers is sickening.

You are adding fuel to the fire.

When there is civil unrest in this country resulting from the media's antagonistic approach to this situation, you will have to step up and take some responsibility .

Or maybe you will just savor the hype of the protesting and violence that may ensue.

Doug, SD   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

With people like Hillary Clinton in America trying to steal an election, how in God;s name can we say anything to any Third World Country about their election

Shame on your Hillary and your tasteless supporters

Matt in Cleveland   May 30th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

If that is true christopher…a liberal gay man voting for mccain…then you sir are an idiot

Emma, San Jose, CA   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Hillary is paying him for a losing cause. And in the process she is trying to make us all be losers. For those who have remarked that Hillary does
not care about the American people, I have come to agree with you. It is becoming increasingly clear that she is not very presidential.

Marie-Lynn   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

How she gone paid her lawyer she is in debt for 20 millions and more. She spend all her money in Puerto Rico, an Imperialist island where nobody will be able to vote in november for the presidency, What do you think the donnors for how she manage your money? Do you really want to continue with her?????????????Do you really see her as 'presidenta'

mj - florida   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

I don't understand how Clinton can feel good about doing all of this. I have seen her speak in person, I admired HRC, I have lost respect for her.

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Will any Clinton supporter concede that her Florida/Michigan argument is one of political convenience?

Any one of you with honor enough to admit this????

(crickets chirping)

Objective Mike from Illinois   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

LETTER TO CLINTON SUPPORTERS,

I SIMPLY CANNOT BELIEVE THIS ANYMORE. I'M GETTING DEPRESSED BECAUSE OF THIS.

CLINTON SUPPORTERS, please put aside your misgivings against Obama for one second and just answer this ONE QUESTION please:

***Essentially, we should reward the person who broke the rules and punish the person who followed them??

If you say yes, then at least you are upfront with your madness and I can respect that. If you say no, then why are you supporting Clinton???

vic nashville,Tn   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Count all votes
Hillary 08

Jennifer   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Why can't the Democratic Party have a winner take all in each state like the Republican Party. This would have been determined months ago. Howard Dean is a joke and I can't believe he is at the top of the party. I have already backed a candidat e that is a democrat, but with all the name calling going on I don't know if I will vote democrat in theGeneral Election or not. I think both democrat's have good and bad ideas and at time both have misspoken. But one thing is for sure after the election (because I want to make sure my vote does count) I am changing to an Independent. The Democratic Party has acted like a three ring circus and they will have to make alot of changes before I can honestly think about being a democrat again.

follow your rules, DNC   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

I will only vote for HRC.

The DNC knows she has the right under party rules to take it to the convention.

Male candidates who were behind by 800 delegates have done exactly that.

No one called on them to quit. Of course they were all white males running against other white males.

Now the rules to install the black candidate, requires that we unfairly attack, damage and swiftboat the stronger, better, female?

karen   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

I am republican and white and I am very ashame of the Clintons and her compaigne behavior!!!nuff said.

I am going for OBAMA all the way……

Obama more suited to represent USA.

ASam   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

What exactly does Senator Clinton want? A rule breaking is a rule breaking? Don't give into her - the democratic party is bigger than one single presidential ticket contestant.

DO NOT OVERRIDE THE RULE TO FAVOR HER. SEND HER PACKING ALREADY.

Be Honest   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Hay CNN why do you not report all the SD in the news the last few days ?
Here is todays

AUSTIN, Texas — Barack Obama picked up two Texas superdelegates, bringing him within 42 delegates of locking up the Democratic presidential nomination.Texas Democratic Party chairman Boyd Richie and his wife, Democratic National Committee member Betty Richie, endorsed Barack Obama for president .

MANDY, California   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Candidates were not suppose to PARTICIPATE in the Michigan primary which is why the other major candidates pulled their names from the ballot. Hillary was suppose to as well but changed her mind at the last minute saying that since it wouldn't count it wouldn't matter if her name stayed on the ballot. Florida law wouldn't allow them to pull their names from those ballots or we would have the same issues in Florida as Michigan.

Therefore, either split the delgates or allow none of them the ability to vote.

As far as popular vote goes, since Hillary wasn't suppose to partiicpate in the Michigan primary, all those votes should be disallowed.

Debby   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

I don't see what the big deal is rules were broken in other states by having their primaries early and the votes were counted. When they both signed that paper they didn't realize over 2 million were going to come out to vote anyway and since Obama didn't want to have a redue primary then the voters who made the trip out that day shouldn't be penalized. This is just Obama's same old politics tricks like he used in Chicago to get the nomination.

Chuck   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

No one is now punishing Michigan and Florida you idiot Utrecht. The punishment came and went by a ruling that disallowed their delegates to be seated. The puniushment is over. What people are trying to do now is to reward Michigan and Florida by perhaps allowing at least 1/2 of their delegates to be seated. That is not punishment. That 's giving in. That's like givng your child 1/2 a piece of candy after telling them they could not have any candy for inappropriate behavior.

And face it. Hillary blew it. If she has been so concerned with all the votes counting from the beginning ( instead of agreeing to the Dem ruling not to count Michigan and Florida votes), there would have been much more time and justification to plan and conduct a new vote in both States. But because Hillary's pseudo claim that she is so concerned for these voters did not take place until after she realized she was losing this nomination process, she gave Obama the opportunity to gain an insurmountable lead and the momentum with little or no time to justify a revote in either State only for the purpose for her to try and catch up. Her intent as well as your comments and intent Utrecht are a sham to the point of being sickening.

Dylan   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

They will not allow Obama ANY delegates from Michigan.

NOW WHO'S DISENFRANCHISING VOTERS??

JERRY   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

HELLO DENVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GOOD MORNING …….ITS 5:OO AM DENVER TIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! … OUR PLANE ARIVES IN DENVER IN A COUPLE OF MONTHS.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PEOPLE GOT ELECTED TO OFFICE ON JAN 29 … THOSE VOTES AND THAT DATE WAS VALID… OH BUT THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES GET PENALIZED.. IT JUST DOES NOT SEEM VERY DEMOCRATIC OR AMERICAN…(ALL LOCAL AND STATE RACES WERE VALID)….IE.. ALL SHOULD BE VALID….

Chi4Obama   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

This is utterly ridiculous. Even "if", she were to somehow win the Democratic nomination. Our party would be so divided, that McCain would have a cakewalk during the General Election. So I ask, what is Hillary accomplishing by taking it this far???

I bet Rush Limbaugh, and the GOP are just sitting back with their boxes of popcorn, and laughing at all of the "CHAOS" surrounding our party.

heartlight 3, Maui, HI   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

This is NOT an election, it is a primary. Rules for primaries are different, and are determined totally by the party. I am amazed that there are actually people who really think what Hillary wants is honorable and fair. How do you look at yourselves in the mirror? This is a contest in which the winner is the one with the most delegates. Everyone knew the rules from the beginning. If she wanted different rules, she should have entered a different contest. What kind of president would we have if the contest is won through temper tantrums and blackmail? Amazing!

vINCe   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Anyone who votes for McCain over Obama is a straight up TRAITOR!! If you want to protest Hillary not being the nominee than CHANGE PARTIES TO INDEPENDANT AND VOTE OBAMA!!! This is about the direction of the country …..NOT WHO WEARS THE PANTSUIT!!

If you vote McCain….SAY GOODBYE TO ROE V WADE…cuz McCain is most definately going to appoint conservative judges and the SC will be 100% conservative for the next 50 years!! Is Hillary really worth that?? Think about it ladies…YOUR FEMINIST VIEWS AND RESENTMENT WILL COST YOU THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT ADVANCEMENT WOMEN HAVE GOTTEN IN THE 200 YEARS THE U.S. HAS BEEN ALIVE!!!

Howard   May 30th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Obama h