Clinton Campaign on Delegates and Style
Hillary Clinton’s campaign won the primaries in both Florida and Michigan, but no Democratic campaigned there because both states had disqualified themselves from the nomination process. What’s happening now is very illuminating.
The Democratic Party decided in 2006 that only Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina may hold their respective contests prior to February 5, 2008. Any state not adhering to these rules would lose their delegates. Florida and Michigan held their primaries before February 5, 2008, and thus, lost their delegates.
Clinton’s campaign is now desperately trying to change her position because it currently suits her:
Clinton on September 1, 2007:
We believe Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina play a unique and special role in the nominating process. And we believe the DNC’s rules and its calendar provide the necessary structure to respect and honor that role. Thus, we will be signing the pledge to adhere to the DNC approved nominating calendar.
Clinton on February 8, 2008 (after winning Florida and Michigan):
With regard to Michigan and Florida, our position is clear. We’re going to ask our delegates to vote to seat the delegations from Florida and Michigan. We do not think that that many Americans should have their voices and their preferences denied.
Meet the Press has excellent coverage including some predictably partisan remarks from Chuck Schumer.
