Tuesday, June 03, 2008

Superdelegate endorsements for Tuesday 6/3 - Part II

WE'VE MOVED! Democratic Convention Watch is now at http://www.DemocraticConventionWatch.com

Previous endorsements from today can be found here

Countdown to the Nomination
Obama---
Clinton203

Includes 6 delegates from South Dakota. Obama has won the nomination!

Obama leads today's superdelegate count with 23 endorsements (19.5 superdelegate votes)
Clinton has two endorsements 1.5 superdelegate votes. She has also lost 4 endorsements for a total of -2.5 votes


Former President Jimmy Carter has made his intentions very clear and he has been added for Obama

Carter told The Associated Press on Tuesday: "The fact is the Obama people already know they have my vote when the polls close tonight." Carter spoke to the AP after addressing the Georgia World Congress Center.


Added Michigan DNC member Tina Abbott for Obama
“I am endorsing Senator Obama because he has spent his career standing up for working families. He has a plan to protect American workers and their families, and retool our manufacturing base to keep jobs here at home and strengthen our economy. As president, I know that Barack Obama will continue on his commitment to protect American workers' right to organize and he will make universal health care a reality for all our families. We cannot afford four more years of the failed Bush economic policies which John McCain is offering. Barack Obama brings the change our country needs and American workers deserve, and I am proud to endorse him today."
Switched DNC Ben Johnson (DC) from Clinton to Obama
“It’s time to close ranks behind Barack Obama, who has run an outstanding campaign and made many of us proud. This is no way diminishes my respect and admiration for Senator Clinton, who is a fine public servant who I have known for many years. But it is clear that Senator Obama has the momentum needed to help us win in November and I am proud to endorse him today.”

Switched DNC Kamil Hasan (CA) from Clinton to Obama
“I am endorsing Senator Obama as Democratic Party’s nominee not only because he has clearly won more pledged delegates, but I sincerely believe that he can provide the necessary leadership in taking this country in a new direction at this critical juncture in our history. Fortunately, we have had two excellent candidates. I have great admiration for Senator Clinton and the way she has run a spirited, high energy, issues based campaign. I am looking forward to continue to energize the Indo-American and the South-Asian communities in ensuring that Senator Obama becomes the next President of the United States. His election as the President of the United States will not only help unite a very divided nation, but elevate the image of the United States in the world to a level not seen since John Kennedy was the President.”
Florida DNC member Diane Glasser has endorsed Obama
“It is time for our Party and our country to come together and reach closure in this process. It is time to move on and elect a president who will take on John McCain and win in the fall. Senator Obama is the leader in delegates and we need to rise to this moment and move forward toward victory in November.”
California Representative Maxine Waters has switched from Clinton to Obama
“Senator Hillary Clinton has run a superb campaign and has proven to be a hard worker while gaining the support of many key constituencies that will be essential for Democratic success in November," she said in a statement. “Despite that, Senator Obama’s delegate numbers more than describe the enthusiasm for his candidacy and I believe that by the end of the day, he will have the necessary numbers to become the Democratic Party nominee for President."

“It is now time to close ranks and time for all remaining delegates to put their support behind the presumptive nominee, Senator Obama. Senator Obama has run an effective campaign and has overcome many obstacles to create an energy that has brought many new Democrats into the party," Waters also said. "Together, both of these candidates have generated an unprecedented involvement in Democratic Party politics. This is something that all Democrats can be proud of."
Added DNC John Daniello (DE) for Obama
“Senator Obama has inspired Democrats across the country over the course of this primary, and we saw here in Delaware that his appeal will help our candidates up and down the ballot. As a state party chairman, I know how valuable this contest has been in energizing the grassroots, and I wanted every state to be able to participate and reap the benefits of this historic race. Now that all of the primaries and caucuses are behind us, I believe it’s time for Democrats to unite in taking on John McCain, and I'm pleased to be joined by Rhett Ruggerio and Secretary Windsor in endorsing Barack Obama for president,”
Added DNC Harriet Smith-Windsor (DE) for Obama
“As a superdelegate from Delaware, I am representing the people of my state, where Barack Obama won in our primary. Senator Obama is an outstanding candidate who will unify the Democratic Party and be a strong candidate to beat Senator McCain in the November election,”
Switched DNC Rhett Ruggerio (DE) from Clinton to Obama

“The Democratic Party has been blessed with two incredibly strong and extremely capable candidates. Its time though, that we as a Party, unite behind our nominee and begin to focus all of our energy on the general election. Senator Obama has proven that he has the vision, the fortitude and the character to effect real change and lead us to victory in November,”
Kansas Rep. Dennis Moore has endorsed Obama
Maryland DNC member
Belkis (Bel) Leong-Hong has endorsed Obama.
LA Rep. William Jefferson for Obama.
WY DNC Cindy Nunley for Clinton.
PA Rep. Bob Brady for Obama
MI DNC Mike Tardiff for Obama
NH Ray Buckley for Obama
OR Frank Dixon for Obama
AZ Don Bivens for Obama

Update: The Obama Campaign has just issued a press release with 10 additional Edwards delegates that have switched their vote to Obama. We are working with Green Papers to make an update. We have added 7.5 Edwards delegates for Obama


Reported upcoming endorsements: Sen Herb Kohl (WI), Rep. Jerry McNerney (CA), DNC Ralph Dawson (NY), Gov. Bill Ritter (CO), Sen Ken Salazar (CO), Gov. Brian Schweitzer (MT), Sen. Max Baucus (MT), Sen. Jon Tester (MT), Dennis McDonald (MT) and Margaret Campbell who endorsed Obama but had to back down due to her vice-chair position in the Montana Democratic Party.

142 comments:

David Jarvis said...

The AP is now reporting that Obama has hit the required total. To quote them, "WASHINGTON (AP) -- Barack Obama effectively clinched the Democratic presidential nomination Tuesday, becoming the first black candidate to lead a major party into a campaign for the White House. Vanquished rival Hillary Rodham Clinton swiftly signaled an interest in joining the ticket as running mate."

Marisa in MN said...

Do we know if the nine listed as upcoming are going to endorse before the polls close/are counted or are they going to wait until afterward?

I'd love it to be before, because that would mean that he would only need 18 between the two primaries and would definitely clinch tonight!

Dermot Looney said...

Thanks to all involved in this great resource. Watching the campaign from Ireland, we are thrilled to see Barack Obama clinch the nomination and would love to see the continuation of a grassroots campaign of the left lead the charge for a new America. Is féidir linn - yes we can!

Unknown said...

This would be a thrilling day in any event, but having DCW as a resource has made it so much better. I'm actually supposed to be working, but I can't keep myself from logging on every hour to see what's new. It's really hard to keep my spreadsheet caught up!!

reddwarf2956 said...

I went to my bank. They have Fox New on the TV which showed BHO to have 2111.

I have read the AP. Stating that Obama needs 5 from the closing tonights polls to win.

I wonder why the side bar is not keeping up?

coop said...

Another Super for Obama! :)

Carnelia Fondren

http://www.sunherald.com/306/story/602665.html

Anonymous said...

This would have happened even if HRC got full votes in Florigan and MI undeclared became like SDs.

Funny the way HRC is talking about VP while she leaves her radical talking head hitmen like McAuliffe stranded in the public view to talk up the Presidency and talk down the VP spot. Poor Terry and Co, but they knew they were dealing with the devil.

OBAMA!!! The Clintons lied about you. They slandered you. They kept changing the goal posts. They accused you of crimes that only the Clintons themselves would commit.
In the end, Obama, you came out on top because of who you were, not what you were. You came out on top because you are a true champion. Congratulations.

rella said...

As we reach the end of this long, primary fight, just want to thank you guys for this great site. I don't know what I'll do with myself when I can't obsessively check it a million times a day! :)

scrooner said...

SDs since May 5:

Obama: +99
Clinton: +16.5

I can't wait 'til it's 100.

coop said...

ummm I'm an idiot...LOL you already have Carnelia Fondren posted...LOL...sorry matt/oreo

Frank said...

Can someone explain why the uncommitted super delegates like Donna Brazille etc. are not endorsing Obama immediately today so that he can obtain the 2118 target with the results of the Montana and South Dakota instead of the other way around. This way he can give his speech in Minnesota in a more confident position?

David Jarvis said...

All the worry, all the work, all the crap was all worth it now! Phase 1 of the battle to take back the country is now complete!

Mucho thanks to Demconwatch for being our guide throughout the entire process.

David Jarvis said...

Frank, having the voters put him over the top is a nice political move, that's why.

Anonymous said...

and champions, are made, not born. Somebody should tell that to the Clintons. You could almost feel sorry for them. When was the last time they LOST in a race? They've been winning races since the 80's and it looks like things went to their heads.
Obama, don't worry about the Latino vote or Black or White or Yellow or Red or Green or Purple...
Just let America know who you are, and the voters will take care of the rest.

We're tired of McCain and Bush. Tired of their global ambitions. You know we're proud Americans, but help us to be proud when we travel abroad. For the past 5 years, every time I've taken a business trip abroad I've been asked by people, "Why does Bush do this and that?" "Why does Bush invade here and there?" Obama, please build an America that can show greatness through generosity. Please build an America that will be kind to other countries so when I go abroad next year people will once again tell me, "Thank you for this and that." "Thank you for sending food and medicine here and there."
Please Obama, please.

Kevin M said...

Congratulations to Barack and Michelle, and all the grassroots volunteers and campaign contributors who made this possible! Thanks to Former President Carter for his endorsement, too. I hope we hear soon from Al Gore.

CloudyFuture said...

MSNBC and I think the AP have stated that as many as 34 SDs will make the endorsement of Obama just before or just right after the polls close in MT giving him the "magic number" and the nomination.....though seems like they might have been told by the clinton camp to hold off until the morning.....so they might do that as well to let her have "her moment"(accrding to MSNBC tv reports)....

Should be interesting to see what happens tonight.....

Rich, Orlando said...

Sharon Nordgren NH for Obama

http://unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=John+DiStaso%27s+Granite+Status%3a+Tuesday+updates&articleId=69f6e9c2-46c6-4c97-9c9c-607cb9eb98c5

scrooner said...

100

Kennyb said...

Pant...pant...hard....to....keep....up.....with.....endorsements.....

Bull Schmitt said...

scrooner -

10 more should do it ;)

Alii said...

They're not going to 'hold off' it will be over tonight.

Needs this for his Ecel speech.

Alii said...

Xcel...getting tired.

Official Scorer said...

Minnesota Public Radio is saying Rep. Peterson has endorsed Barack Obama.

Raising one eyebrow said...

The asterisk is missing next to Michigan DNC member Tina Abbott.

I love the site!!

NY IP said...

Anybody think that some superdelegates are holding back to allow for Barack to win the nomination via the primaries as opposed to a superdelegate barrage. Although I don't care how it goes down, it would seem to me like it would be more "democratic" to have him hit the 2,117 number via pledged delegates.

Dave S. said...

Yeah, kudos to this website. It's been an incredible reference throughout the campaign. Really proves how blogs and alternative media can be far more accurate than traditional media.

neroden@gmail said...

Edwards delegate Sharon Nordgren will switch to Obama (not official yet):

http://unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=John+DiStaso%27s+Granite+Status%3a+Tuesday+updates&articleId=69f6e9c2-46c6-4c97-9c9c-607cb9eb98c5

Unknown said...

I'm not trying to suggest that they shouldn't have just endorsed him already (goodness knows I've been impatient about it all day), but I believe that there will still be enough of a gap in time between the polls closing in MT and SD and the time that Obama is actually scheduled to speak (the rally starts at 7 local time, but they've suggested that he won't actually speak until 9:30ish) for him to officially claim victory.

Frank said...

Hillary Clinton now wants the VP spot!

I think that will go against the "change" theme on which Obama has won the nomination.

He should pick any other woman to unite the party, but not Hillary.

Beth Kelley said...

Thank you Dermot from Ireland for your good wishes for our nominee! It warms my heart every time I read about other countries' interest in this election. Obama's message of inspiration is global and hearing messages of support such as yours keeps our spirits up as we encounter small-minded people here at home.

Anonymous said...

CNN just announced that Maxine Waters has switched sides on TV, from Clinton to Obama. It hasn't been posted yet on any website that I can find, but it should be up soon.

Dilbuck said...

Rep. Maxine Waters switches to Obama per CNN. Looking for more info now.

FleetAdmiralJ said...

I don't even have Nordgren as a super on my list...

Kennyb said...

Josh, Nordgren is a pledged Edwards delegate from NH who had said she was uncommitted after the Edwards' endorsement.

FleetAdmiralJ said...

got it. duh, i see that now reading the article

Nuisance Man said...

Even Clintonistas are switching. Is this a delegate "flood"? No, I think the word is STAMPEDE! (See hoary U.S. national convention history for details, kiddies.)

Anonymous said...

Maxine Waters switches endorsements from Clinton to Obama

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/06/03/waters-switches-to-obama/

“Senator Hillary Clinton has run a superb campaign and has proven to be a hard worker while gaining the support of many key constituencies that will be essential for Democratic success in November," she said in a statement. “Despite that, Senator Obama’s delegate numbers more than describe the enthusiasm for his candidacy and I believe that by the end of the day, he will have the necessary numbers to become the Democratic Party nominee for President."

lomis said...

Best Regards from Austria to this great site and the soon-to-be-official Democratic candidate!

Although I won't see the final message until tomorrow:

Barack Obama - YES WE CAN!

For a better world.

Xyxox said...

Dennis Moore Rep from Kansas endorses Obama

http://www.kansascity.com/news/breaking_news/story/647792.html

Kennyb said...

David Parker (NC Super) to endorse Obama at 10 p.m.

http://projects.newsobserver.com/under_the_dome/parker_to_endorse_after_10_p_m

Kevin M said...

These signals from the Clinton campaign and reported in the media that she would like the VP nomination disgust me. Almost nothing would more certainly doom the Obama campaign. The hatred for her outside of this party would motivate people who are uninspired to go out and vote FOR McCain to instead go out and vote AGAINST her.

dsa said...

Frank - Donna Brasile already produced a wonderful endorsement statement immediately after the Saturday decision by the Rules/Bylaws Committee - on Sunday I believe; this was ahead of many on the RBC, which appeared to prompt others on the committee, as several on the RBC and elsewhere on the DNC followed her model within 24 hours...

Unknown said...

FYI, Fox News is now saying Obama has 2123 delegates on their bottom-of-the-screen scroll. Of course, it's Fox News, so you gotta take that news with a massive grain of salt. (I personally consider anything Fox News says as inaccurate without independent verification) Still interesting, though. I'm curious what bit of news they found that made them jump their totals from 2111 to 2123.

Unknown said...

12 MORE NEEDED PER OBAMA WEBSITE!

Oreo said...

- Added DNC Tina Abbott (MI)* for Obama
- Switched DNC Ben Johnson (DC) from Clinton to Obama
- Switched DNC Kamil Hasan (CA) from Clinton to Obama
- Added DNC Diane Glasser (FL)* for Obama
- Switched Rep. Maxine Waters (CA) from Clinton to Obama

StevenT said...

California Rep Maxine Waters to switch from Clinton to Obama, per cnn.

Alex Turkoglu said...

wow, i can't believe the flood finally happened, this is so cooool

Dilbuck said...

Delaware Secretary of State Harriet Windsor, Delaware Democratic Chair John Daniello, and DNC Member Rhett Ruggerio also announced today that they will vote for Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention in Denver this summer. The three superdelegates released the following statements today.


“As a superdelegate from Delaware, I am representing the people of my state, where Barack Obama won in our primary. Senator Obama is an outstanding candidate who will unify the Democratic Party and be a strong candidate to beat Senator McCain in the November election,” Secretary of State Harriet Windsor said.

“Senator Obama has inspired Democrats across the country over the course of this primary, and we saw here in Delaware that his appeal will help our candidates up and down the ballot. As a state party chairman, I know how valuable this contest has been in energizing the grassroots, and I wanted every state to be able to participate and reap the benefits of this historic race. Now that all of the primaries and caucuses are behind us, I believe it’s time for Democrats to unite in taking on John McCain, and I'm pleased to be joined by Rhett Ruggerio and Secretary Windsor in endorsing Barack Obama for president,” Delaware Democratic Party Chairman John Daniello said.

“The Democratic Party has been blessed with two incredibly strong and extremely capable candidates. Its time though, that we as a Party, unite behind our nominee and begin to focus all of our energy on the general election. Senator Obama has proven that he has the vision, the fortitude and the character to effect real change and lead us to victory in November,” DNC Member Rhett Ruggerio said.

Zeh said...

Keep it up, Matt, there's a lot of work coming up for you tonight...

barry008 said...

Funny the way HRC is talking about VP while she leaves her radical talking head hitmen like McAuliffe stranded in the public view to talk up the Presidency and talk down the VP spot. Poor Terry and Co, but they knew they were dealing with the devil.

OBAMA!!! The Clintons lied about you. They slandered you. They kept changing the goal posts. They accused you of crimes that only the Clintons themselves would commit.
In the end, Obama, you came out on top because of who you were, not what you were. You came out on top because you are a true champion. Congratulations.

RWD said...

It's over, finally!

Hillary supporters, I know you must be disappointed. It was a close race and Hillary did very well, but she lost. Please try to get behind Obama so the Republicans will be defeated. But if you can't do that, at the very least do not keep spreading the kind of ridiculous lies I have been reading the last few days.

Hillary did not win the popular vote.
The nomination was not "stolen" from her by some kind of backroom deal.
She received fewer pledged delegates, she received fewer superdelegate endorsements, and she received fewer votes. Hence, she lost.

Kennyb said...

Ivan Holmes (OK super) for Obama:

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/

Anonymous said...

LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT. Even love it more that former Clinton endorsers are jumping ship. DCW
RULES, you guys are doing a wonderful job. We need to get the message to Obama, not to put Hillary (Billary) on the ticket.
I have been tired of and revolted by her since 1991. It is time for the Clinton to vanish. If he puts her on the ticket, he will need to hire a food taster.

barry008 said...

PRESIDENT OBAMA

YOU MAKE US PROUD WITH YOUR UNDERSTANDING OF HUMAN NATURE

GOD BLESS YOU FOR WANTING TO BE OUR PRESIDENT

GOD KEEP YOU SAFE
I DO NOT TRUST THE CLINTONS
PLEASE PROMISE TO KEEP THEM AWAY FROM YOUR ADMINISTRATION

THEY HAVE A LOT TO LEARN FROM YOU

JayZed said...

I think it's time for DCW to endorse Obama!

Congratulations to Obama and his campaign - looking forward to seeing the party unite behind its nominee.

CBH said...

Does this countdown include the 10 Edwards delegates? Shouldn't we be in the teens with them? The counts are getting confusing...you guys have your hands ful and are doing a great job!

scrooner said...

Still time for Hillary to offer the VP spot to Obama again...

barry008 said...

http://www.politico.com/blogs/bensmith/0608/Wes_Clark_floats_ObamaSebelius.html

OBAMA - SEBELIUS

DREAM TICKET

barry008 said...

No more lies from the Clinton's
or her campaign , it will be so nice just to have somebody who tells the truth

Barrack , hope you have a much deserved rest - if only for a day - the Republicans must be so disappoited , har- har

It feels so good to know the world stands a chance for

CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE ON

Kennyb said...

Kansas rep. Dennis Moore for Obama:

http://www.kansascity.com/news/breaking_news/story/647792.html

Unknown said...

Go delegate flood! End this thing now!!!

Kennyb said...

He steals from the rich and gives to the poor, Dennis Moore, Dennis Moore...hehehehe.

Dan Werner said...

Your 23.5 number at the top of the page is wrong (it's off by 2, I think)...

S.K. said...

Well I guess none of these turncoats should be surprised when 35% of Clinton voters "switch" to John McCain in Nov.

That's only 6,300,000 votes.

Dilbuck said...

Dan-In-NY

I think they are just trying to catch up. There were like 10 super endorsements in 5 minutes there.

Unknown said...

How much fun can you have! To bad every nominating contest isn't this good.

I'm out for four hours. When I come back, Obama will be our nominee.

Janna said...

s.b. - they're rallying behind our (presumptive) nominee. Do you want to continue the discord?

Orlando said...

Congratulations from Spain! We'd be very glad to receive President Barack H. Obama in Europe soon in 2009!

Unknown said...

s.b., let them switch. We don't want them if they can't set aside their selfish ego's and vote for what's in the best interest of the party and the nation anyways. Obama can win just fine without them.

Andy said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Oreo said...

OK people...
it's been a pleasure serving you today.

Obama now needs 12 more delegates.

And I need a beer.

Anonymous said...

THANKS OREO!! Good job

THuff said...

So these 6 million Clinton supporters are now going to vote pro-life just out of spite? Yeah, right.

What SB doesn't understand is that a host of moderate independent voters will more than make up for the ignorance of the Hillary voters who do nother but threaten and bully and have nothing but bitter, rotten, sour grapes.

Unknown said...

Don't forget William Jefferson (D-LA) . Not the best get, but one closer to that magic number. See: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/06/03/the-superdelegate-tally/

THuff said...

Bravo, Oreo. We will buy a pack of double stuffed in your honor for your yeoman's service to the intelligent discussion of this primary.

scrooner said...

The one SD that Hillary gained today was Florida DNC member Jon Ausman, who wants an Obama-Clinton ticket.

???

You vote for President, dude, not Vice President.

Amot said...

sedonaredrock,
please be patient! The endorsement is valid and will be added when Oreo gets back. Thank you!

Kristina said...

I wish I could send all of you wonderful DCW folks the beer or tequila of your choice. I've got the champagne popped open myself!

Rob said...

Way back in September, watching the first scraps of the presidential fight, I told a friend "I'd really like to see McCain v Obama at the end". What a long time to wait for my underdogs to rise!! The only thing I'm sad about now is that Obama/Edwards is off the deck, I really liked what Edwards had to say in the debates.

Rob the Obamican in CA

PS: Thanks for all the work maintaining this site, it's been a great enjoyment in the long contest!

Kennyb said...

I give praise to, but save your gift money and donate it to Obama's campaign!!

RS said...

Just to follow-up on kennyb's post, as I don't see this on DCW:

Ivan Holmes for Senator Obama:

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/06/03/oklahoma-superdelegate-endorses-obama/

Irish Eyes said...

Ivan Holmes (OK) for Obama according to CNN and Obama site

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/samgrahamfelsen/gGBypS

Kennyb said...

California Rep. Sam Farr for Obama

His spokesmen tells Amie Parnes that the congressman plans to endorse tonight.

ALSO: Maryland DNC member Bel Leong-Hong announces her support for Obama.

per Ben Smith Blog on Politco

fendawg said...

I think it should be Dennis (not Dan) Moore of Kansas.

Congratulations on a great job; I look forward to following you through to Denver!

Amot said...

Ivan Holmes (OK) and David Parker (NC) will be put in the waiting list. They have not officially endorsed yet! President Carter is the only exception DCW made of that rule today.

Amot said...

Rep. Sam Farr (CA) will be put in the waiting list. Only endorsements planned for tonight go to the list.

tmess2 said...

In any case, no more endorsements are needed before the polls close at least according to dcw counts. I am not sure about all of the media which I am sure the Obama campaign has an eye on all of the counts. CNN is down to 12, DCW is down to 12, not sure about the others.

The campaign just needs a total between 5 and 14 at 7pm then it can let the voters do the rest.

jeff said...

excellent work Oreo & team. Now the pledged delegates can put him over tonight.

Not that it matters much, but sure hope those reports of a double-digit loss in SD aren't true as it would put a bit of a damper on the festivities.

Anonymous said...

Obama
ABC 2106
CBS 2108
MSNBC 2107
CNN 2107

Amot said...

DCW will be down to 11. Oreo will add William Jefferson (LA) later. And can you find a valid source for Bel Leong-Hong (MD)?

Unknown said...

Someone close the floodgates! Lets have SD and MT bring Obama over the finish line!

Unknown said...

Is there any way to compare this to some other lists out there other than pure manual counts? AP listing BO only 1 away...
http://www.pbs.org/newshour/vote2008/primaries/superdelegates/search.php

RS said...

Bell Leong-Hong:
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/inlondon/gGBySz/commentary

RS said...

Sorry, that should be Belkis Leong-Hong.

Dilbuck said...

This is from fristan on the old board so I cannot take credit. This has a direct quote and whatnot for Belkis Leong-Hong.

Maryland Superdelegate for Obama; Delegate Countdown - 10 To Go
by Sam Graham-FelsenTuesday, June 03, 2008 at 06:28 PM
Maryland superdelegate and DNC AAPI Caucus Chair Belkis (Bel) Leong-Hong announced today that she is endorsing Barack Obama for President. She released the following statement today:

I’m endorsing Barack Obama today because I believe he is the strongest candidate for the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community and he understands that it’s time for AAPI issues—immigration, education, and small business policy, for example—to be discussed on the national stage. And as someone who has lived in AAPI and international communities, I know he shares our unwavering belief in America as a land of prosperity and opportunity for all.

Obama has shown a remarkable ability to bring people together, and I know that Democrats will unite behind him to take on John McCain and stand up for a new direction for this country.

I look forward to working with Senator Obama and his campaign to actively engage our Asian American and Pacific Islander community in the general election. Our community is actively participating in this exciting election and will be a critical, swing-vote constituency contributing to a historic democratic victory in November.
http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hqblog

FleetAdmiralJ said...

OK, the super delegate count went up by two but...I don't see 2 new supers listed?

Ray, Two Dot MT said...

I agree, Ian. Montana has a real shot of going for Obama in the General. Taking him over the top could give him a boost here.

HL from the Caribbean said...

Kudos to matt, oreo, etc for this site. Great job, best site for most reliable, up to date and easy to understand info. I will miss it once it is all over!

Jeff in CA said...

Josh,
Those two could be for William Jefferson and Leong-Hong. I don't see their announcments in the body of the post, but those two may be why the super count shows two extra.

Yesterday ended at 336.0 supers, add 19.5 so far showing on this post; that's 355.5. Add 2 and it's 357.5, as you noted. BTW, Obama site shows 358.5 supers.

S.K. said...

Keep it up thuff, its disrespect from Obama supporters like you that keeps sending Hillary voters to McCain. It will be a disaster in Nov. You see people over 29 have watched the Dems throw more than one election in the toilet.

Dukakis was 17% ahead of Bush at this point in time. That's with a popular Republican in the white house.

Obama should be way way way ahead of the Republicans at this point and he isn't. He is about to be eviserated and those us who have seen it happen before won't be surprised and won't even feel badly this time because it was so obviously going to be a repeat opf history.


The Dems nominate their least electable candidate ever, and malign women their core constituency while they are at it. GO DEMS!

6,300,000 voters just went to MCCain today and Obama has been losing the independent vote in total for some time.

FleetAdmiralJ said...

They're not on the superdelegate endorsement list either...

Unknown said...

Ray in Two Dot, Montana -- it's so great to have you here! I spent my childhood summers in Ringling, White Sulpher Springs, and Checkerboard. If I remember right, All-Around Cowboy Benny Reynolds was from Two Dot. Montana is on stage, for sure, and it's great to watch!

Dan said...

Jesus, I leave for a 3 hour shift and when I get back, I find that Obama has gained 7.5 pledged delegates and 18 supers? Can we slow down a bit?

Morus said...

Matt/Oreo,

As this titanic battle draws to a close, on behalf of all the readers of PoliticalBetting.com , both here in the UK and around the globe, I'd like to thank you guys for running such a fantastic resource over the last few months.

This has been my first port of call each morning, and the best authority I've relied upon for delegate information throughout the season.

I hope to run into you in Denver in the last week of August, so that I can buy you the beer (or substituted soft drink) you so richly deserve.

Great work - you should be really proud of it.

Regards

MORUS

Anonymous said...

CNN

OBAMA 2112

Basketball mom, M.D. said...

Matt/Oreo,

can't possibly thank you enough for the facts, for being well-informed. To have an objective site like this for a political novice like myself is great. and despite SOME trolling, your site seems to keep most at bay. Have a GREAT night!!

THuff said...

SB, you compliment me so much. You've shaved 24 years off my age *and* you've credited me with the ability to affect the thoughts and actions of Hillary Clinton supporters. All that *and* Obama gets the nomination. Shucks. It just doesn't get any better than that.

Searching For Pericles said...

Great stuff guys.

Are the latest two endorsements that aren't listed (that took it from 11 to 9) as follows?

1) Holmes (OK) for Obama
2) Jefferson (LA) for Obama

Great work by Matt/Oreo and all.

FleetAdmiralJ said...

Has someone mis-counted, cause we're back to 2 more superdelegates under Obama's count (359.5) than have been announced here. I've gone through and checked and made sure I've added everyone who is listed here today on my spreadsheet and I only have 357.5

Searching For Pericles said...

I'm with Josh, my count is off by two as well.

Now I see Jefferson on the list, but the number dropped down to 8.

So back to two.

I assume:
1) Holmes (OK) and
2) ??

Fantastic stuff keeping it as accurate as it has been with the rapid fire endorsements.

Amot said...

Jefferson was supposed to make it 11, and Leon-Hong 10. The last two are either mistake or Matt decided to add Holmes and Parker...

Unknown said...

MSnbc are way off in their numbers...go figure. I am so glad that DCW is online!!

Claudia in Canada

Dan Werner said...

Yup--it should be 357.5, that's what I have too.

THuff said...

The Obama campaign has announced they will be in Norther Virginia (4 miles from my work) on Thursday. This is at a concert venue. This is Va Sen Jim Webb territory who has held his cards close to his vest. Webb as VP could sew up DC, MD and VA.

Unknown said...

My heartfelt thanks to all involved with DCW, including all the excellent posts from so many different and interesting points of view!

Amazingly, it looks like Obama might just be able to thread the needle and have one of the states tonight put him over the top. Still some tricky footwork needed to get through the hour between when the two sets of polls close. Ideally, no one endorses during that hour. At this point, no big deal if that doesn't hold, but if it does--wow! This has been an amazing demonstration of political ability on the part of the Obama campaign. It speaks well of an Obama administrations ability to work effectively with Congress...

Anonymous said...

CNN

OBAMA
2114

countjellybean said...

My count is also off by two.

Maxine Waters' name has not been moved from the Clinton column to the Obama column,

Searching For Pericles said...

Front page back to 10. I think this is correct per what is listed.

No go on Holmes and Parker (yet), apparently.

Unknown said...

If Obama loses South Dakota, Senator Tim Johnson will switch to Clinton.

http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080603/ELECTIONUPDATE/80603050

Jim from Indiana said...

AP is showing Obama with 2123.

CBH said...

Bob Brady from PA for Obama

http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/samgrahamfelsen/gG5gZH

mamanoo said...

what time is obama speech?! anyone know any online place that will stream it live ? thanks!

O8AMA - For President!

Matt said...

Recent adds:
LA Rep. William Jefferson for Obama.
WY DNC Cindy Nunley for Clinton.
PA Rep. Bob Brady for Obama

We double counted, but the number is now correct.....hopefully.

Holmes has not been added - future endorsement which hasn't happened yet.

Unknown said...

count jellybean,

I also noticed Maxine Waters hadn't been moved to the Obama list -- but even when I take that into consideration I'm off by one.

I'm off whether I count state by state, day by day or position by position. If you figure out the discrepancy pls let me know.

Unknown said...

When the history of the 2008 presidential contest is written two on-line 'sites: Green Papers and Democratic Convention Watch will be credited with raising the standards of reporting. The standards we see here (and at GP) for accuracy, transparency and timliness have forced the MSM to do a better job than they would otherwise have done.

People who care know where to go to get their facts straight. DCW is where people who care find each other!

Matt & Oreo -- YOU GUYS ROCK!!!!

kitchin said...

The Wikipedia artivle, which is largely based on this one, but does its own math and verifies the references, has 3 extras for Obabama. I think I have traced them:

1. Gov. Phil Bredesen (TN) is misspelled "Bredeson" here on DCW, and listed uncommitted.

Politico today says he is going for Obama:
Politico, 6/3/2008

2. Sam Farr (CA) - wiki has Obama, DCW has the ref for it already and is waiting

3. Ivan Holmes (OK) - wiki has Obama, DCW has ref, waiting.

On David Parker (NC), we agree, wait, keep as uncommitted.

Only Connect said...

Not sure if you all know much people round the world are watching this - really excited for you all and for the US - this is a great night. Wished our politics was as alive as this. And to echo everybody else, congratulations on the fantastic site - it's been great for a lil' ol' foreigner like me trying to navigate the unfamiliar intricacies of the process - it's been a daily fix. And have been hugely impressed with how independent you've kept it. Having said that, "Yes you can!!" Dom UK

Matt said...

All

We all owe Oreo huge thanks for keeping things working while I had to deal with the day job! Leave him a beer, or leave him kudos on the FAQ thread (not here, please), but I'll say it now: THANKS!

And as a special present to you all. From Obama's speech tonight:

Tonight, I can stand before you and say that I will be the Democratic nominee for President of the United States.

kitchin said...

The wikipedia article I'm talking about is this one. It backs up the arthimetic here, as far as I checked it.

Matt said...

Mike Tardiff (MI) added for Obama.

Unknown said...

matt,

I apologize for giving you guys compliments on this thread. I've always been one to say we should stay 'on topic'.

Suggestion: Open up a "Matt and Oreo are the balls!" thread. Then we'll know where to hang out.

furpurrson said...

It's a great night for America! Praise the Lord - yes, a Democrat CAN say that!

Now let's all do everything we can to make sure that on January 20, 2009, Barack Obama will be Mr. President.

Unknown said...

CNN have called it for Obama. W00T!

democratista said...

Better late than never, I want to thank you for all your hard work. I've been keeping a spreadsheet with predictions of primaries for months now and you have helped me track supers and my own counts after the primaries.

Great dedication. Much appreciated.

FIRED UP AND READY TO GO!

tmess2 said...

Based on early returns out of South Dakota looks like the number is down to 1.5 or .5

Jocelyn from Ohio said...

Hello Everybody,

It's a great site! It it also my most reliable source for news on this nomination challenge (better than any suspence novel - life is again the best writer).
I noticed one (possible) error in today's endorsements. The long account (with pictures of the endorsers)provides the name of DNC superdelegate Carnelia Fondren, Mississippi Democratic Party Vice-Chair, with the quote of her endorsement of Barrack Obama. Fondren, however, is not on the compact list for today (she should be between Ausman and Perez, or Ausman and Kozikowski; she's at the very end of the first part of today's list.
Perhaps, this incongruence resulted with the questions of the count-down number (8 or 9)?
I hope the gurus of this site accounting will check quickly on that.
All together, I'm very very impressed with the work you're doing (not to mention the BRIGHT STAR - BO - who is the reason for this action).
With my best to all of you,

Jocelyn from Ohio

Amot said...

Yes, the number will be down to 1.5, Obama is getting 7 pledged delegates from SD.

Pedro de Azevedo Peres said...

Congratulations to all and thanks for the good work

Matt said...

new post summary post, just above this one.

Matt said...

Just got 15 new endorsements from the Obama campaign. They'll be listed in the new post.

1sbwa said...

Well this is one vote he does not get.
As for the his not sucking up in ares votes. Guess you better count where he went and did not.
I am not deaf. I have heard his side.And he has followed the party rules to the letter.
And not voting one way or the other does not show leadership.
He left MI and Fla out. He don't out to follow the party and stood that ground to the end.
That it had nothing to do with him. Eve as he went so far to take his name off the ballet.
He has beentaking stands for people he calls friends. Big speech about how it is OK to have friends who speak and act badly.
But to states of voters? We don't get a reach around.
I do not want Clinton to run with Obama.
I would rather see her go to another party. All the DNC would do is use her.
DNC made their mess. Let them clean it up themself.

Frank said...

SHAME ON HILLARY !

What a sore loser. And then she wonders why people treat her with disrespect. Such a combative speech. Not one mention of Obama reaching the magic number of 2118.

I wonder if her supporters would really be so immature and foolish to vote for McCain or stay at home.

Maybe they deserve each other. The word narcisstic seems best to describe this kind of behaviour.