Legal Commentary

The Popular Vote And The FL/MI Problem

By Big Tent Democrat

By Big Tent Democrat

(Speaking for me only)

Steve Benen notes Ed Rendell saying this:

On a conference call with reporters moments ago, Rendell said: "Let's assume that Senator Clinton goes ahead in the popular vote count." He then asked, "which is more democratic" -- choosing the winner of the popular vote or the winner of the pledged delegate count.

"The way we select delegates is not all that democratic," Rendell continued, in a reference to caucus voting. "The rules were going in that super-delegates were there to exercise their judgment...as a super-delegate I want to make sure we win in the fall, and I'm gonna take the candidate who can do that."

Steve acknowledges the power of that argument while doubting Clinton can win the popular vote. Frankly, speculation from any of us is rather pointless. Let's count the votes when they come in. But therein lies the problem with the Clinton campaign's refusal to fight for revotes in Florida and Michigan. To be perceived as the popular vote winner, Clinton needs revote wins in Florida and Michigan. I do not understand the Clinton campaign strategy at all on Florida and Michigan.

Full post as published by TalkLeft on March 13, 2008 (boomark / email).