June 4, 2008
Posted: June 4th, 2008 12:00 PM ET
Emanuel is backing Obama.
Emanuel is backing Obama.

(CNN) - Rep. Rahm Emanuel, a former member of the Clinton administration and longtime loyalist of both Bill and Hillary Clinton, endorsed Barack Obama's White House bid Wednesday, CNN has learned.

According to congressional sources and Obama's campaign, Emanuel was at hand for Obama's speech before AIPAC earlier Wednesday. He will release a formal statement on the endorsement later in the day.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Phong Nguyen   June 4th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

The Democratic Party should seriously consider changing its mascot from a donkey into a stronger animal such as a lion to deal with the elephant of the Republican Party!!!

Alfredo   June 4th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Another sucker and traitor!!!

amtFresno,CA   June 4th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

You made the right choice. It's about time. I just heard Roland Martin on the Situation Room say he heard from an insider of the Obama camp that it is UNLIKELY Hillary will be on the ticket as Veep. I am so glad to hear that. Obama can beat McCan't no doubt about it. Barack Obama does not need Hillary Clinton. He will pick a better partner. Congrats to Obama, the next Pres of U.S.

susants   June 4th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

He was the only Illinois Congressman who had not endorsed Obama. It is about time that he is loyal to the state and city district which elected him.

Timothy   June 4th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

I just think it is a sad moment for any delegate to officially now come out for Mr. Obama. He accepts and is humble but where was these delegates earlier on. They too were waiting on some negative news to come out either you believed in the man or you didn't. Some in america will never embrace a black man as a leader. To all my caucasian brothers and sisters; I thank you for not looking at race but listening to the heart of a man. We know he can't solve our problems but he represents our values and can relate to our financial delimas especially student loans and more.

Hank Chapin   June 4th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Rahm, why didn't you wait until she leaves the dem party and runs as an Independent – that being because you are an avid supporter of the
Clintons all these years?

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   June 4th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

And in other news, this dude is putting his money on the NY Giants over the New England Patriots!

Isn't he a little LATE?

Illinois   June 4th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

The amount of traitors never ceases to amaze me. Just goes to show you that money CAN buy you anything. He isn't doing this "for the good of the party". In fact, none of them are. It's all about power and money. Once Clinton solidifies things, I can't wait to see how she "manages" these defectors.....it won't be pretty. And it shouldn't be. They have only themselves to blame for their failing political careers. And if they think that Obama is going to help them out, think again. He only cares about getting what he wants, and then he discards people as "unnecessary" trash. The writing on the wall.

STAUNCH CLINTON SUPPORTER   June 4th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Here is how a staunch H.R. Clinton supporter sees the end of the Democratic primaries.
Total number of delegates needed to receive the Democratic Nomination 2118

Obama received 1763 elected delegates; he missed 2118 by 355 delegates
Clinton received 1640 elected delegates; she missed 2118 by 494 delegates.
Obama has 18 million popular votes
Clinton has 18 million + popular votes

Thus neither Obama, nor Clinton secured the number of elected delegates to win.

The popular vote goes to Clinton she received more votes than Obama.

However, the super delegates, anxious to make history by backing the first black American Democratic leader, ran over themselves to back Obama, and gave Clinton a difficult time.

What the Clinton supporters truly believe that since neither candidate won the designated 2118 for the nomination, THEY BOTH SHOULD SIT ON THE TICKET.
AND IF NOT, we the Clinton’s staunch supporters will either not vote at all, or vote to support J. S. McCain and that is not an idle threat, we are her legion of supporters and how you treat her is how we will feel that we are being treated…

Joyce in Florida   June 4th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Who is he? Anyway, Hillary Clinton will always be Madame President to millions and millions. Keep fighting Senator Clinton all the way to Denver. As far as I am concerned, this contest is not over yet. GO HILLARY–WE NEED YOU IN THE WHITE HOUSE.!!!!!!!!!

God sent him   June 4th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Hello Maca, I know it hurts when your horse loose the race. Good move Rep Emanuel leave the ship before it go under....sorry you stayed so long you almost went down with it.

Ken   June 4th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

I see this as a very disloyal person. Without having Hillary Clinton on the ticket with Barack Hussein Obama, the Democrat Party WILL NOT win in November and WILL NOT take back the White House!

Hillary Clinton is the stronger person to beat McCain in November. Obama alone CANNOT beat McCain.

Hillary Clinton VP 2008

Daniel FL   June 4th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

I have never appreciated our Democratic party leaders more than I do now. It's time for the Democratic leaders, and ALL of the voters to let Hillary Clinton know that we will NOT be divided in spite of her lies, cheating, her tantrums, her race baiting and her acting like a spoiled 2-year-old brat!

I am a young Democratic voter who voted for Bill Clinton when I FIRST registered to vote in 1996. I had so much respect for them. I stood by them when Bill was going through his scandals. I had long said that if Bill CLinton could run for a third term I would vote for him.

Today I am a sad, disappointed, but most if all angry and disgusted at the Clintons, particularly Hillary. Last night was the straw that broke the camel's back. She took what should have been a historic night of unity and solidarity, and made it even more divisive than ever. She, along with John McCain, tried to rob Obama and the country of this historic moment.

The Clintons are done. I'm done with them. At this point I wouldn't spit on her if she were on fire.

The Clear Thinking Indepedent   June 4th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

I welcome this endorsement and the slate of Super Delegates that will declare their support for Presidential candidate Barack Obama on Thursday because it will drive the point home so that the nation can move forward.

It is important that the Clinton camp get the message, LOUD & CLEAR that America's tollerance for her is slipping away quickly.

I also encourage other thinking republicans and independents to declare their support for Mr. Obama.

24 years ago people spoke of Reagan Democrats; now a GENERATION later history will be written with the help of Obama Republicans truly from the party of Abraham Lincoln.

It's time to TRANSFORM this country. Every 40 to 50 years this occurs. Last time it was Camelot and JFK ... Next will be Barack Obama.

TEXAS TRAIL DOG   June 4th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

EMANUEL? Are you the long lost twin of Obama's? You sure do look like him. Do you know Bin Laden too? Are you a Muslim also?

Ben   June 4th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Somebody please tell Lanny Davis that he left high school a long time ago...so stop all this rubbish about pushing on Clinton into the White House as a VP. She goes on board and more will vote against her and Obama.

John   June 4th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Emanuel is a Clinton supporter...he must not know that Hillary is still looking for superdelegates to back her.

John Smith   June 4th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Obama has won this process WITHOUT the help of Clinton. In point of fact, Hillary and her supporters threw all the kitchen sink stuff at Obama and he still won "fair" and square.

So Obama does NOT need Hillary to screw this process for him. Hillary, Bill, and Chelsea should stay away from this ticket and the White House as far as possible. This nation cannot afford to deal with any more of the past or current scandals!

If the Clinton supportes want to roll over to McCain, so be it. No DEM should beg or worship these people! Both Hillary and McCain make the same old poor judgements with their years of tauted experiences. We need to move forward (change); this election is about CHANGE, not Queen Hillary or One-eyed McCain.

Chris   June 4th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Hillary needs to get over herself. and her supporter need to face the fact that she lost. The fat lady has sing.

Sarah Smith   June 4th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

No ! No ! No ! Never! please don't put BILL and Hillary on your ticket..

don't commit suicide!

Those two are clinically dangerous!

The US abolishes century old clinton dynasty   June 4th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

thank you, and please be a man and tell that woman to accept the historical fact that the democratic party has a historical smart, h umble Nominee, and that history will show that..

thank you

Mc Cain Dem   June 4th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Why do you hate Hilary so much, because under the Clinton administration they worked vigerously for peace in Ireland, The Middle East and in Ex-Yugoslavia. Or maybe because she lied because she claimed that a place that the President could not get security clearance to visit, did not actually have live bulets. There were brave American soldiers securing peace, there was tension, but live bullets, sorry ,no.
Your smearing tactics are offensive to one of Americas finest public servants, you should be ashamed.

Susan   June 4th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Thans Rob. Could you do me a favor and go puch out Lanny Davis and his bunch of morons? This is a disgusting showing o petulant children, and they bring great shame to the party. If they force this issue, you can be sure that they won't have a job when their terms are up. Hillary has disgraced this party, and all of you should be ashamed.

ANGIE   June 4th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

now maybe you can work on hillary and her supporters to unite this party

Independent-Cuban-American-woman-voter-for-Obama   June 4th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

What took you SO long? This is what I do not understand about the 'superdelegates' where was their backbones weeks ago?

God willing the Democrats will be able to unite their party for the sake of the nation.

The Clintons have done nothing but damage. Sad but true.

Jewel - NC   June 4th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Thanks for getting on the train, it better late than never.

Welcome aboard and tell your friends to come on too.

Keifer S.   June 4th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Thanks for your support Rep Emanuel. Welcome aboard. We're fired up and ready to go.

John, London   June 4th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Under no circumstances should Clinton be allowed near Obama's ticket. She'd made so many negative comments in the course of the primaries that she's just not tenable for the post anymore. She shot herself in the foot.

Obama-Junkie, IL   June 4th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

I don't care about public endorsements now...it is time for superdelegates to endorse Obama behind the scene and tell Hillary to get out the race and work on her senatorial duties!

Dave SC   June 4th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Who cares what Emanuel says. He is also a joke like Barack. Imagine CNN give the headline for Emanuel. Who is he?

Peter Paul   June 4th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Welcome sir,

Smart Hillary, Copycat Obama   June 4th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

YIKES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

aware   June 4th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Poor choice but at least you waited until after the last primaries!

Congratulations to the extreme left media and the foolish Dems who have anointed the object of their love affair. You now have a very cautious, biracial presumptive nominee who has marinated in Black Liberation Theology and racist rhetoric for decades! :(

Hillary is the best, and I will support whatever she decides. VP would be my last choice unless she knows something I don't?

But, if she takes it to the convention to secure Universal Health Care and/or if she secures the next Supreme Court position she will continue to serve admirably!

Joining McCain on his ticket would satisfy many of her supporters as would running as an Independent.

Anticipating Hillary's decision with hope and prayer! :)

Be nice Obama supporters! Hillary has all the options!

Dal CA   June 4th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Thank you welcome aboard and lets heal the party.

Awesome   June 4th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

Rahm is a democratic pit bull. He knows how to win, and his faith in Obama alone is a huge endorsement.

Harvey in Va   June 4th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

at this point we just dont care anymore...If Hillary is not on the ticket we will vote McCain into office

Hillary Supporter   June 4th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Is Hillary holding a rally in NY tomorrow? Can someone confirm please?

trudy   June 4th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

these people contributed to the long primary. it is a little too late. the early people who endorsed obama should be congratulated.

Burnis Jones   June 4th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

It is good to see that more peoples can see beyond the tip of their Nose .

Xavier, St. Louis, MO   June 4th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Obamanation!!!!

YES WE CAN!

JeffRob   June 4th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Rahm, as one of your constituents, I know the decision wasn't easy, but better late than never!

Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Now could you get your ol' bud Bill C. to come out in full force for him?

Nezzie Shabazz   June 4th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Thank you for supporting Mr. Obama.

Pistoff   June 4th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Please take note Clinton supporters ... he's one of yours.

William, from Cali   June 4th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Is he looking for a JOB?.............Remember, the Trojans!........................

Dee, St. Louis   June 4th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

And here comes Hillary supporters in 5....4....3...2....1...What?

Ernest   June 4th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Good, but why now?

IT'S FINALLY OVER NOW FOR THE REAL BEGINNING   June 4th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

get over yourself and move on

JJ   June 4th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

who runs this thing? wake up – you only post dumb comments with lost of typos (ha ha) and misspellings (Hill is a loser, not a looser) exclamation points and all caps . . . why do you dumb down the debate? do you just want people to think that most people are stupid? does that improve your ratings or something?

IT'S FINALLY OVER NOW FOR THE REAL BEGINNING   June 4th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

THIS IS SAD TO SAY THE LEAST AND I'M TRYING MY HARDEST TO REMAIN PURE IN MY COMMENTS BUT HEY THOSE WHO FEEL THIS WAY JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND WHAT'S AT STAKE AND THEY WILL REAP THE COST OF IT ALL.

Richard   June 4th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

TRAITOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jrzshor   June 4th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

has anyone actually counted the former friends of bill's who wor and/or support barack.

is barack just the "black" bill?

IT'S FINALLY OVER NOW FOR THE REAL BEGINNING   June 4th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

THIS IS SILLY AND STUPID IF I MUST SAY. JUST LET BARACK HAVE HIS WIN HE DESERVED IT. GOSH NOW WE HAVE TO TRY AND TAKE HIM DOWN JUST BECAUSE YOU'RE BITTER AND ANGRY YOUR CANDIDATE LOST TO A BETTER PERSON. SOUNDS LIKE MADNESS TO ME.

IT'S FINALLY OVER NOW FOR THE REAL BEGINNING   June 4th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I'LL START A PETION OF MY OWN HOW ABOUT NO CLINTONS NEAR THE WHITE HOUSE THAT WOULD TRUMP THIS SILLY ONE. OBAMA WON FAIRLY GET OVER IT. STOP CRYING AND GET BEHIND THE NOM. BY THE WAY THE HUFFINGTON POST HAS A PETION GOING ON TO KEEP HILLARY OFF THE V.P. TICKET. SAD BUT TRUE BUT SHE DOESN'T DESERVE IT SO I'M ALL FOR IT!!!!!!

martin   June 4th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

thanks,but you're kinda late to make a difference.

Lisa   June 4th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Emanuel for vice president, or Wexler for vice president.... Caroline Kennedy has a lot to think over, helping in th process to find a vice president. She has millions of people to choose from....

ready for November   June 4th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

It would be nice for Hillary to do the RIGHT and SELFLESS thing: endorse the Democratic Nominee. She is so self-centered....come on Hill, thin about the country!!!

Glenn   June 4th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Clinton News Network (CNN) are at it again. The other news media outlets are already showing Obama at 2160 and Hillary at 1926. What's up with that?

Steve   June 4th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Way to stick your neck out Rahm.

pasadena, ca   June 4th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

alright rain man make it rain for obama...

Will, Iraq Vet   June 4th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Your endorsement means nothing sir.

American Girl   June 4th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Great!

Beryl from S.F.   June 4th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

What good does this endorsement do? Since he is such a long-time friend of the Clintons, couldn't he just have kept his mouth shut and refrained from sticking another knife in Hillary's back?

JJ   June 4th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

maca – or "macaca" as george allen might say – you can call her "madam president" but she lost in the the semi finals. Please, you and those like you, write her name in or vote for mccain, but only if doing so is more important to you than the substantive issues she stood for – health care, iraq, the economy, women's rights, ending washington corruption (did you hear about phil gramm?) etc . . . that sort of stupidity is why the Rs always win. good luck with all that.

Rick   June 4th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

At least he can't be VP.

Dena in SC   June 4th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Rudy NYC–no!
Bill should never overstep Hillary after all she has done for him. Men don't realize how much Hillary is hurting. The SD's are slow, yes, but now is the time to trickle in. We got the nomination and the election. Take is easy and let Obama make his selection.
I love Obama/Bayh, if you're reading this Pres. Obama!

J   June 4th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

The healing process has begun.

Nancy from Brooklyn NY...   June 4th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

THANK YOU!!!

OBAMA '08

Anonymous   June 4th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

As a former Hillary supporter, a sense of Clinton "entitlement" is the only rationale that appears to explain her behavior.

What is it that the Clinton think they're entailed – and to what lengths are they prepared to go to get it it?

HavingFun   June 4th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

maca – yes, just in your dreams...come to reality my friend..think about the future

CA Voter   June 4th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Will you Obama supporters STOP with the name calling. Now is the time to welcome Hillary's supporters so that we can be unified for the general election. Otherwise, you will turn off her supporters and they will either write in her name or support McCain. Do not dismiss them, you will need CA, OH, PA, TX, WV, KY, SD, and others.

Independent   June 4th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

I just love it – all these loosers who are backing a looser!!
Wait until more trash and tapes of Michelle Obama come out of the closet!! What are you going to do then you loosers who think Obama can win the WH? O

BAMA IS THE WRONG CHOICE FOR AMERICA – PEOPLE WAKE UP AND SEE THIS GUY FOR WHAT HE IS – Forget the empty promises and bombastic rethoric. Look at his record and his life! JUST LIES ALL OF IT

He wants to be pres. but does not even know how many states in America?!

Sue   June 4th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

All the far-left liberals are gathering and will all be responsible for the ruination of the democrat party. It is now the Black Liberation Party.

Colony14Author   June 4th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

I was with a friend at a church breakfast years ago. Candidate Emanuel showed up to drum up votes to get elected for his first term. When he offered his hand to me and asked if I would support him, I replied that I didn't live in that district and therefore could not. He IMMEDIATELY withdrew his hand and walked away, not wanting to waste a handshake on someone who could not vote for him! (Gosh knows what he would have done had I told him I would not vote for him if I had the chance.)

In other words, how needs the support of someone with such an attitude? Then again, perhaps all politicans have that attitude.

Vote Libertarian. At least they're small-government advocates with attitudes.

Don in Florida   June 4th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

To Obama Nation; Please treat Clinton Nation with all due respect. we need them to help us re take the white house. It does none of us any good if McCain wins so let's be civil.

To Clinton Nation; Please accept the fact that there can only be one winner and that winner is Obama. If you don't like that fact you have the right to jump to McCain at your discretion. Telling us on the blogs that you will vote for McCain will not influence us to switch our allegiance to your candidate. But before you change to McCain make sure you listen to your candidate because i'm pretty sure she's not going to tell you to vote for McCain.

Jim   June 4th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Clinton should be on the ticket , because that makes them more likely to beat McCain. Let go of arrogance, we need all the votes we can get. McCain is dangerous for America, and dagerous for the world.

DJ in TX   June 4th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Dems – it is time to unite the party. This division must stop. If for whatever reason you decide not to vote for Senator Obama, then so be it. That is your right. but please stop trying to hold the democratic party hostage If things had turned out different, would you be so pushing for Senator Obama to be the VP?

If that is his choice, then that is his choice. But trying to force the situation is not good for Senator Clinton nor the party. My gut is she really doesn't want the #2 spot. To some degree, her voice would not carry as much weight. She would have to state the message that Obama would push, whether she agreed with it or not. I just don't see Hillary wanting to do that and it would do her an injustice.

Shaik   June 4th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I agree with RudyNYC whole heartedly....Pres. Clinton MUST endorse Obama and SOON!

Mike   June 4th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I really hope Obama supporters grow up and welcome Clinton supporters who are now endorsing Obama. I see already some people calling Clinton supporters who are now uniting the party and supporting Obama rats who should have supported him from the get go.

If they continue like this they will doom Obama's campaign because they are alienating Clinton voters rather than welcoming them and unifying the party.

GROW UP!

Party Crasher   June 4th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I hope that CNN does not pay Lanny Davis anything when he appears on their news cast. That guy whines like a three year old.

EBC   June 4th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

THANK YOU Rep. Emanuel. Welcome aboard the Obama Presidential Train!!!

YES WE CAN !!

YES WE CAN !!

YES WE CAN !!

YES WE CAN !!

YES WE CAN !!

Ricky White   June 4th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Mrs. Hillary R. Clinton last night, gave any example of how people just don't like change, and that it's not the answer of situation or problems, but how we as people react to the answer. I wish her and her family well.

Ed from VA   June 4th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

There are probably only a few notable endorsements left.......Al Gore, Bill Clinton, and of course Hillary Clinton. Dems unite to take back 1600 Pennsylvania Ave!

kentucky   June 4th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

If he's from Illinois then he knows about how Obama got his competition removed from the ticket so he was the only choice on the ballot there. Surprised he wants to support him now. Maybe he can influence Clinton's vp spot. Otherwise her supporters are going McCain because Obama can't hold a candle to his experience and war record. Obama wasn't in our great military right?

arc   June 4th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

The Democratic Leadership and the millions of Party voters need to come together to secure a victory in November-with out without Hillary Clinton.

Joyce-Houston   June 4th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Every Superdelegate should endorse Obama.
No Obama/Clinton Ticket.
Enough is Enough.
Sixteen months of Drama and it seem like Sixteen years.
We can't let our Past keep us from our Future, It is time to move on.

Raymond Duke   June 4th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

You people act like this is some big breaking news. Of course all except the brave at heart is going to abandon her. They first of all or politicians and want to make sure they get their pork through in case he accidentally was to win the presidency. How else can they all become millionaires on that little salary if they don't get their kick backs and bribes.

Mighty Blogger, Seattle, Wash   June 4th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Can we get a tracking page showing who still supports Clinton and those that switched and the dates?

Voting Obama   June 4th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

WE NEED TO UNIFY OUR PARTY!! ALL YOU HATERS CAN KICK ROCKS!! HATRED NEVER WINS. STOP WHINNING AND GET ON THE WINNING TEAM!! OBAMA IS A HOPE FOR OUR FUTRE! GOD BLESS HIM!

John800er   June 4th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

It is a sinking boat !

Caryn, WDC   June 4th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Representative Emanuel, we understand your hesitation to endorse a candidate and we genuinely thank you for your support.

Welcome.

cynthia   June 4th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Thank You,
You are well respected

AMW   June 4th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

HAD ALL YOU CLINTON "FRIENDS' BEEN SUPPORTIVE IN THE BEGINNING, INSTEAD OF ENDORSING OBAMA AFTER THE PRIMARIES WERE OVER, YOU WOULD HAVE BEEN APPRECIATED MORE. NOW YOU COME ACROSS AS JOHNNY COME LATELY TRAITORS. NOT ADMIRED AT ALL.

NC for Obama   June 4th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

He needs to talk to Hillary about acknowleding Obama as the nominee. Until she does, the party will continue to be divided.

No McCain   June 4th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Thank you thank you Sir.

maadam candidate   June 4th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I supported Hillary but now have no Problem supporting Obama. I loved them both anyway, just had a hard time to choose btw the two.............

JT, AZ   June 4th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

For those saying it is too late, you are, unfortunately, incorrect.

The Florida and Michigan delegations will be seated in their ENTIRETY; if the Credentials Committee were to rule in the Clinton Campaign's favor, they would then get full votes, not half.

In THAT case, the number needed for a lock would be about 2210, NOT 2118.

Since Senator Clinton has refused to concede, the Obama Campaign must make sure it has the votes to withstand such a challenge.

Mary in CT   June 4th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Considering the Clinton camp's behavior, this endorsement is actually well timed. It is a signal from a major figure in the Democratic party that it is time to move on. If all of the other undeclared superdelegates follow his lead, they will finally turn off the lights and close the door on the Democratic primary.

Agent of Change from FL   June 4th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

WELCOME BUT ISN'T THIS ENDORSEMENT A LITTLE TOO LATE?

Jennifer   June 4th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

It is sad that Clinton did not have the grace to endorse Obama last night, or even congratulate him on his historic achievement.
I admire those of her supporters who are now throwing their support behind him to help take back the White House.

OnBehalfOfKenyans   June 4th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

COME ON ONBOARD AND SIT DOWN WITH US ON THIS OBAMA'S TABLE!

obama == supporter== arkansas   June 4th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

welcome sir

RONNIE   June 4th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

who?

Olivia   June 4th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Oh yes.....in addition.......we all know now who most of the super-rats are. Legends hold true.

Olivia   June 4th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

I'm not surprised. I often see him on the punit panel on MSN and maybe Cnn. He went with the flow of the others there. listening to him try to defend Hillary, one knew it was only going to be a matter of time before he capitulated. With friends like that...........

Agnes   June 4th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Nobama! 18 million Demorcats across this nation said so! Why? Too many unanswered questions. This is not about race or religion, only the weak minded and mean spirited boil it down to that; it is about who is able to make the weighty decisions the next President must face. Global Warming, War, Economic "downturn," Oil, Commodities, Health, Fresh Water, many issues spanning the global community await our next president. Obama simply is not experienced and has not proven his patriotism. The DNC picked the weaker candidate, giving unearned votes to Obama. Who is David and who is Goliath? Nobama!

Uncle Sam   June 4th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

What does Sen. Obama believe?

Linda Esen   June 4th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Thank u Rep. Rahm Emanuel

IT'S FINALLY OVER NOW FOR THE REAL BEGINNING   June 4th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

even after his clinching the nom he's still got em rolling in. keep them coming there's plenty of room on the boat, on the plane, and on the train.

Debby   June 4th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

I agree with the first poster who cares he only endorsed because Clinton didn't get the nomination. Voters are the ones that Obama needs to clinch the Presidency.

Gloria   June 4th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

Go home Hillary!

DISSAPOINTED   June 4th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

what state do you represent? did they vote for obama? Or are you another superdelegate who broke against the will of the people? Hypocrites. This isnt democracy. Pelosi said you had to vote with your people. Ted? Kerry? Feinstein? what happened where did your states vote? You need to change this system, and fast your losing democrates like wildfire. Me included

Pam   June 4th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

He should, he and Obama are both from Illinois. Better late than never, I guess.

Arden   June 4th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Thanks for the endorsement. Now its time to give the future President some real support and help him campaign. Its time for everyone to get off their blessings and start working to support our future President.

trellskig   June 4th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Time for Bill to tell Hill to get it together and with the program. You want the VP spot, do the right thing.

al   June 4th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

that is nothing new considering he is also from chicago, as his past views have shown his personal biases.

Randy - Denver   June 4th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

For all those who claim that Ms. clinton should take this to Denver you need to see this for what it really is, an acknowledgement that she ahs lost and that even if she takes it to Denver there is NO way she will win. If anyone thinks that, short of some major and I do mean MAJOR Problem arising in Mr. Obama's candidacy, the superdelegates will overturn the decision at this point you have NOT been paying much attention. The simple facts are these, 1) many of the superdelegates waited until this point because they were not willing to stand against the pledged delegate votes why would they suddenly decide to throw away their carreers by doing so now? 2) yes Kennedy did manage to take it but things were sufficiently different then because while he was behind NO ONE had reached the required number of total delegates, there was no "winner" yet now there is. Mr. Obama has the delegates needed to win, it will NOT go to a second round of voting at the convention. 3) Ms. clinton angered ALOT of superdelegates last night with her speech, and while MANY are willing to give her a few days I suspect VERY FEW will be willing to let her go beyond this weekend without conceding and if she does I think you can expect to see her start LOSING superdelegates instead of gaining any. that is the way i see it, take it for what it is worth.

Venus   June 4th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Hillary's nightmare when she wakes up is that not all of her supporters will allow her to use them as bargining chips!

It's great to see many of our party leaders back Obama! It sends a strong message to Hillary--------- this isn't about you!

NickNas   June 4th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

WAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY Too late Bubba.

Fence sitters can stay on the fence. We know you were too weak to make a decision when it meant something.

Enlightened Voter - No hillary for VP   June 4th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Obama is a Harvard educated Constitutional Scholar. He did four years as an Illinois Senator and two years as US senator. Also he gave up a lucrative career to perform community service. He also ran a brilliantly run campaign and managed to clinch the nomination as a relatively unknown by working very hard so Stop talking about his lack of so called experience. The ones with 'so called' experience got beat and made bad judgements to boot. BTW, what ever happend to the gas tax holiday?

David Goldman for OBAMA   June 4th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

EMANUEL HAS KEPT HIS HONESTY & DECENCY IN SPITE

OF BEING IN POLITICS FOR QUITE A LONG TIME. SO IT

CAN BE DONE. WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THE SUPPORT

AND HIS SERVICE TO THIS LOVELY NATION.

LET IT GO   June 4th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

WHO CARES ALITTLE TO LATE!

HomoSapien   June 4th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

A man of his word I guess! He insisted that he will leave partisanship aside and endorse right after the results were clear, and he did.

I wish the Clintons had the same grace.

CW4Barak   June 4th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

You unfortunately saw the light too late....but welcome aboard the winning train nonetheless!!

Obama '08

Monica for Obama in Indiana   June 4th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Thank you so very much Rep. Emanuel, the Democratic Party need to start healing so we can win this election come November.

Phil From VA   June 4th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Let everyone move over so she won't hold 18Million American votes as hostage to get her debts paid off and find a job. She is done. I have no respect for her. Bill was great but now he has gone bonkers.

Amanda   June 4th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Where were you months ago when we could have ended this race and united the party I have no respect for people who only throw their support after a winner has been declared

Supporting Barack   June 4th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

You had a nice run Hillary, we love you. Now it's time to accept reality.

BARAKFORLIFE   June 4th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Thank you Rep Emanuel. You know what is good for America!!

Rudy NYC   June 4th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

The single biggest act of healing in the Democratic Party would be for Bill Clinton to endorse Obama. That would have to happen before Obama extended any VP invitation.

abn71   June 4th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Welcome in the team of winners. You come a bit late, but your voice still counts. Tell the other undecided superdelegates and those ones (both delegate and super delegates) who commited themselves to Hillary to wake up and join the winning club. It is nonsense to keep on looking on the past when the future is knocking on the doors. Go Obama 08

georgia   June 4th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Eureka ! Pull it together in spite of Billary & the vigilantes. Beat McCain ! Begin the restoration of the USA ;great country for all it's citizens;great world leader !!!! Obama 08 !! VP to be announced @ DNC convention (& it won't be HRC )!!!!

maca   June 4th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Who cares!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hillary, will alway be our MADAM PRESIDENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Bush Twins : George and John   June 4th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Thank you sir. Hopefully the other Super Ds will step up and finish this.

Jack the Dog   June 4th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

I thought it was Emanual Lewis!

Karen from Texas   June 4th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Welcome to the movement!!

Obama 08

Beltway Insider   June 4th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Better late than never – I guess.

Mostly irrelevant at this point. In case you didn't hear, Senator Obama clinched the nomination last night and Mrs. Clinton has absolutely no chance of catching up.

Would have been nice if you had a backbone and had declared your support when it mattered, but thanks anyways.

Obama all the way....   June 4th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Welcome!!

Maybe you can now convince your ex-candidate to back Obama in the spirit of the unity she supposedly will work toward.

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   June 4th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Smart man!

Betty   June 4th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

WTG – thanks !!!!

Lisa in GA.   June 4th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Good deal................ Welcome aboard...

scdem   June 4th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Welcome Mr. Emanuel and thanks for the support. I just hope that the majority of Clinton supporters will see the opportunity we have in November to change the course our country is on. Now let's hear the Judas comments.

Good For The Gander   June 4th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Great! Democrats will begin unifying behind our nominee and McCain will begin to crash and burn in the image of his master, Bush.

Mary Smith   June 4th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

RATS leaving a sinking ship!

Venus   June 4th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Thank you Sir and welcome!

Obama for President!

joint ticket   June 4th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Who really cares about endorsements anymore.

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