By Staying In The Campaign, Edwards Helps Obama

[Imagevision]

As the arguments against Edwards begin to mount online, I want to point out something that should be obvious to Obama supporters, but which I have rarely seen mentioned. By staying in the campaign, Edwards is helping Obama in most states, particularly those with large African-American populations. Consider, for example, that Clinton would instantaneously pull even with Obama in South Carolina if Edwards were to drop out

Obama is dominating Clinton among African-Americans nationwide, and even stronger in states where campaigning has actually taken place. Edwards draws very little of the African-American vote from Obama, but is competitive for white southern votes. This means that in states like South Carolina (Jan 26th) and Georgia (Feb 5th), Obama's lead is largely dependent on Edwards staying in the campaign. In Alabama, which will take place on February 5th, Obama leads Clinton 36%-34%. However, that lead would be gone if the 9% of voters who support Edwards, most of whom are white, have to choose only between Clinton and Obama. With Hillary Clinton nudging ahead in Nevada, right now Edwards dropping out would be absolutely devastating to the Obama campaign.

[Yael]

1. But it isn't about race

or is it?

;)

[Sarah Ibarruri]

2. I want Edwards to continue speaking the truth out there. NOBODY ELSE IS!....

When I hear the other 2 candidates speak the truth, I might see things differently. Right now, Edwards is my candidate and I'm hoping he wins the nomination. There are how many states left to vote?

[calteacherguy]

3. Edwards may well end up playing the roll of "kingmaker" at the convention.

It's a definite possibiity.