Tuesday, August 26, 2008

clinton delegation

bill rappleye

can they go for barack?

Remember the primary in Rhode Island?  Little Rhody broke Obama’s string of victories with an overwhelming vote for Hillary Clinton.  One of her highest pluralities in the entire season.  It’s one reason why the delegation is sitting in seats that require supplemental oxygen and a telescope to see the podium.  And the Clinton support in the delegation, which is made up of the high ranking party operatives who made their political bones with Bill and then Hillary, is still strong.  Joe Paolino told me, “I wouldn’t be in Denver if not for the Clintons.“  Mark Weiner still maintains Obama is the lesser candidate, though he promises to work hard for him in the general election.  The upshot of this loyalty, is Clinton delegates intend to cast their votes for Hillary tomorrow night.  They want, and expect a roll call vote, and say it is only right.  The details continue to be hammered out, as to whether it will be a roll call of the entire convention, or just a few states.  Paolino says the two sides are working cordially and productively to come up with a solution…but stay tuned to see if Rhode Island Clinton bakcers get to show their respect with a vote for her on the convention floor.