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Obama runs away with Nebraska caucus

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BY DON WALTON / Lincoln Journal Star

Saturday, Feb 09, 2008 - 11:31:56 pm CST



Sen. Barack Obama dominated Nebraska’s first-ever Democratic presidential caucuses Saturday night, scoring a landslide triumph.

Perhaps more to the point, he secured a fistful of precious delegates in the guerrilla warfare with Sen. Hillary Clinton for every convention vote.

Story Photo
Obama supporters cheer as a few undecided individuals commit to the Obama side of the cafeteria during the first Nebraska Democratic Caucus at Irving Middle School Saturday. (Heidi Hoffman)

Related Media

Map: How Lincoln voted

Barack Obama beat Hillary Clinton nearly 2-1 at Democratic caucuses in Lincoln on Feb. 9. Obama captured 68 percent vs. 32 percent for Clinton. Obama ...

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Results: Nebraskademocrats.org
Statewide results

68 percent to 32 percent - The vote percentage for Obama and Clinton, respectively

25,887 to 12,347 - The vote total for Obama and Clinton, respectively

Obama racked up more than two-thirds of the Nebraska vote in his head-to-head encounter with Clinton.

At first blush, the caucus experiment appeared to be an enormous success for the state party, overwhelming urban caucus sites with committed voters and attracting thousands of newly registered Democrats.

For Obama, it provided a   spurt of momentum heading into the post-Super Tuesday array of caucuses and primaries that stretch ahead.

Obama won even bigger prizes Saturday in Washington caucuses and the Louisiana primary, giving him a clean sweep.

The Nebraska victory handed him 16 of the 24 delegate slots at stake in the caucuses.  The Illinois senator already has commitments from three additional delegates in Nebraska’s 31-member delegation to the Democratic national convention.

Democratic State Chairman Steve Achelpohl of Omaha may be the next to fall Obama’s way. His cell phone rang as he was surveying the early vote count at the Cornhusker Marriott.

“Obama, Gwampa,” was all Matthew Fitzgerald Achelpohl  said. Matthew, who lives in Seattle and will turn 4 on March 15, wasted no time or words in lobbying for his grandpa’s vote.

Obama’s victory came two days after he electrified an overflow crowd of 10,000 Nebraskans at an Omaha rally that surged with youth and energy.

His wife, Michelle, was in Lincoln a day later to speak on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus.

Clinton skipped Nebraska to concentrate on other states, sending daughter Chelsea to speak as her surrogate. Chelsea visited two campuses and spoke in Lincoln, Omaha and Grand Island.

Saturday’s vote marked a breakthrough moment in a state that hasn’t had any impact in the presidential selection process since the importance of its presidential primary was overwhelmed by a steady  proliferation of caucuses and primaries.

The state once played a role in the selection of nominees. 

In 1968, Robert Kennedy campaigned in 29 Nebraska communities on his way to a Democratic primary win here.

Obama ran strongest in Omaha, winning three of every four votes. In Lancaster County, it was closer to two out of three.

Western and central Nebraska was more closely divided, with Obama winning 52 percent of the vote.

Nebraska’s Democratic Party also may have emerged as a winner.

“This will build our party,” Achelpohl said. 

“This has been the most exciting day for Democrats in Nebraska that I can remember.  We registered 4,000 new Democratic voters in Douglas County alone.”

Surveying the crowds that overflowed precinct meeting rooms at Lincoln High School, Mayor Chris Beutler said the turnout and enthusiasm has “just been overwhelming.”

Hundreds of caucus participants at the high school registered as voters for the first time or changed their party affiliation at the site.

“If this registration phenomenon plays out, this definitely has been a party-building night,” Beutler said.  The mayor endorsed Obama last week and will have a seat at the convention.

Some 10,700 Democrats participated in Lancaster County caucuses, according to County Chairwoman Becki Gaston. An estimated 1,500 were new Democratic registrants.

Precinct caucuses scheduled in the Lincoln High School cafeteria spilled across the hall into the school’s media center, where Democrats met in front of computer tables and in the midst of library books.

The caucuses were noisy, energetic, chaotic and highly participatory.

After standing and pledging allegiance to the American flag, the caucus-goers in Precinct 9D1 were led through the process by Brennan Miller, who stood on a chair and shouted over the din of competing caucuses in the media center.

When it came time for those from 9D1, a precinct stretching from A to South streets and from 27th to 33rd, to signify their presidential preferences, Obama supporters were asked to congregate near the door to Room 100B while Clinton’s supporters headed in the opposite direction.

A hand count gave Obama 50 votes and Clinton 18. 

Earlier, in the cafeteria, Mary E. Brown, 74, said she would vote for Clinton because of her record in protecting children’s health.

Glenn Shriner, 32, said he had a hard time choosing, but he’d vote for Clinton because of  her support for medical reform.

His wife, Crystal, 31, liked Clinton for a number of reasons, including “because she’s a woman.”

Paul McFarland, 48, said he’s an Obama man.

“The GOP has their sights set on Hillary,” he said. “Obama is the best choice for us to win in Nebraska.”

David Obrecht, 25, said he’d vote for Obama.

“I think he has a good message as far as having a new direction for the country,”  he said. “And, in my opinion, we don’t need another Clinton in the White House.”

Gunter Voelker, 25, said Obama “actually represents fundamental, bottom-up change, both in principle and in politics.”

“Obama sets a higher bar for everyone,” Voelker said.

When the night was over, Obama campaign volunteers gathered at Cliff’s Lounge to celebrate their victory.

At Duggan’s Pub, Lancaster County Democrats celebrated a victory for their party.

“The caucuses were beyond success,” said Vic Covalt, chairman of the county’s caucuses. 

“We had done our work before, and we did it right. We organized. We had good people all over this town and county, and that’s what made the difference.”

Reach Don Walton at 473-7248 or dwalton@journalstar.com. Micah Mertes contributed to this story.


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Gays for Obama! wrote on February 9, 2008 7:35 pm:
" LGBT'ers....thank you for coming out! Obama will lieberate us! "

 Luke P. wrote on February 9, 2008 8:18 pm:
" When Obama campaigned for the Senate race, he had a Christian Religious Authority Figure (a.k.a a Priest) that was a prominent anti-gay rights activist. And Obama has an "ex-gay" on his campaign. That is why I didn't support Obama because Obama talks about change but yet he has no proven track record for it. Hillary, in her campaign staff, has several out and openly Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender people working for her. As an openly gay Nebraska, I'd trust her on the equal rights issue for GLBT people more so than Obama on the sole fact that Obama has a disingenious campaign on the issue. "

 check your info wrote on February 9, 2008 9:50 pm:
" You are correct that Obama included McClurkin during one event early on in his run. He dropped him immediately thereafter, and has since made more statements supporting GLBT rights than any of the other candidates combined. Do a little research and you'll find that I'm correct. He made a mistake, and he's since corrected it and made amends. "

 Sorry wrote on February 9, 2008 10:09 pm:
" What a shame Nebraska dems chose Obama. Guess I'll have to vote republican if he wins the nomination. "

 Democrats, UNITE! wrote on February 9, 2008 10:31 pm:
" This Obama supporter would rather have a wild affair with Dick Cheney than vote for John McCain in November. To my fellow Democrats who are planning to engage in "snit voting" if their candidate does not get the nomination, I say get over yourselves. This election is too important to be throwing tantrums. I support Obama, but if Hillary wins the nomination I'll vote for her proudly. Anything else would be unacceptable. "

 You're the only one. wrote on February 9, 2008 10:31 pm:
" In every hypothetical matchup vs. McCain, Obama beats him because of his appeal to independents and moderate Republicans. Hillary would have the fight of her life. So go ahead and cast an anti-Obama vote ... you'll be in the vast minority. "

 Not the only one wrote on February 9, 2008 10:42 pm:
" I also don't support Obama. They're plenty of us that don't believe him and don't like what will happen if he becomes president. "

 Republican Before Obama wrote on February 9, 2008 10:43 pm:
" If he's nominated, i'm switching to republican! "

 Ooh! Ooh! Snit Voters! wrote on February 9, 2008 10:47 pm:
" "My candidate didn't win, so I'm switching to Republican!" Go ahead; you'll be in the vast minority. Obama will beat McCain ... put Hillary up and she'll bring out every (currently) apathetic Republican on the planet to keep her from the White House. "

 Not Gay for Obama wrote on February 9, 2008 11:25 pm:
" Seriously, is this election about gay rights? I mean, I am all for gay people to marry, have equal rights, etc. But it is not really a major issue when we are at war in Iraq, fighting Islamist extremists around the world, and have a major healthcare crisis at home. With all due respect, I am tiring of the LGBT people putting themselves at the forefront of the debate. Civil rights and equality for African Americans is like 150 spots higher on the list of priorities. Get over yourselves. "

 Alright...all night wrote on February 9, 2008 11:35 pm:
" Obama-Rama. I would've voted for Dennis Kucinich, but in the end, no matter with how many points I agree or disagree with Obama. I think at least he will open up the doorway to change and putting someone like Kucinich in office. Kucinich is light years ahead of the general American populace. I really think Hillary (girlll power) no matter what has already been bought and paid for. If she were more transparent it could've swayed my vote. I researched the candidates and decided that Obama was just a better choice for my ideals, at the least he discloses his income. "

 Re: Non-Obamans wrote on February 9, 2008 11:39 pm:
" Well, sorry, tonight you're in the minority - there are about 68% of us that appreciate the Senator and will vote for him. Sour grapes is all I hear.

On on LGBT issues, the Clinton record is DOMA and Don't Ask Don't Tell. They are very good at speaking to LGBT issues during election campaigns and then turning on them once in office. There is no reason to think that Hillary would be any different. Obama is the only candidate to talk about LGBT issues in front of non-LGBT audiences, including in black churches in the south. The other commentator is right - do some research instead of listening to 2nd or 3rd hand information and you'll realize that Obama is for equality, for everyone. Just ask LOGO where he was the FIRST candidate to agree to their debate. "

 hvac farmer wrote on February 10, 2008 12:30 am:
" Obama challenges odinary people to do extraordinary things. That is exactly what we Democrats did tonight.
Democrats unite, that ugly picture is burned in my mind now. "

 JK wrote on February 10, 2008 12:52 am:
" I agree with "sorry" guess if Obama gets the democratic nominee, I will have to vote for a republican,just like I did when that shady John Kerry ran 4 yeas ago. Clinton says what she wants to do, so far I have not heard Obama say anything other than "we need changes in Washington"
well, what are they? well I did hear him say we was gonna bring the troops home, but thats it....if he gets the democratic nominee, which I hate to say, its looking that way right now, I hope you all think twice before voting for him......I am a nebraskan that currently lives in Kansas, and our wonderful gov. endorsed him a couple weeks ago, but the talk down here is that she is a possible VP canidate if hes nominated......oh my and I voted for her too, guess I better just switch my party to republican!! "

 Danny wrote on February 10, 2008 12:59 am:
" This was a difficult decision for me because both candidates are so similar in politics. I found myself positively energize throughout the experience despite not having a firm allegiance to either candidate. This caucus thing is the way to go as it really builds the idea of community and voter accountability. In our day and age of hiding behind computer screens, having a little human interaction is good for the soul and good for the democratic process. "

 Washington State Democrat wrote on February 10, 2008 6:39 am:
" This is addressed to all of you that are bashing Obama. I consider myself a Blue Dog Democrat. Yesterday I proudly voted for Obama! If you vote for a Republican rather than voting for Obama, if he wins the Democratic nomination, then you will be voting for the continuance of the same old shameful Republican fiscal policies: Take from the poor and middle-class and give to the rich. Communism in reverse. When Ronald Reagan took office in 1981, our National Debt stood at 1 trillion dollars. Starting in 1981 we have had three Republican Presidents (Reagan, Bush I, and Bush II). During that same period, Republican controlled the Congress the majority of the time. While they speak of being the "fiscally conservative" party, it is nothing more than a BIG LIE. Now our National Debt stands at 9 trillion dollars. OK, Republicans, this is your cue to tell another lie. Go ahead, say, "it was Bill Clinton's fault." Please don't vote for a Republican for any reason, because the Republican will only continue to give you the shaft while giving their rich greedy corporate friends more tax breaks, protecting the greedy drug companies and handing out more illegal 'no-bid contracts'. To all you GLBTers, there are more important issues here than your preferred sexual gratifcation!! You need to quit thinking only of your own personal agenda, and think about what Obama can do to save our nation from total ruin. "

 Sharon wrote on February 10, 2008 6:48 am:
" As a participant in the Nebraska Democratic Caucus, I was very disappointed with the lack of organization. Since the caucus rules had been published in advance, I made the mistaken assumption that the party would actually follow them. The caucus was to begin at 6:00 p.m. My site didn't begin the process until 6:25. Party people attempted to welcome folks and give instructions, but without microphone amplification, they could not be heard. The rules said you could not enter once the caucus began. People came in late - after the initial voting and discussions took place - and were then allowed to place their vote. It became quite clear as people entered the facility that the caucus demographic was skewed to Obama supporters. The people who attended were definitely not a cross section of the demographic of my precinct. People who would normally vote absentee or be able to take 10 minutes to vote at the poll were not represented. The process was not conducive to including persons with physical disabilities. Some senior citizens I spoke with commented they were not physically capable of standing that long (two plus hours on their feet - no chairs were provided). To me, it was a disorganized mess that did NOT represent the Democratic process. I hope that my party goes back to the tried and true method of the election process - casting our votes on election day. "

 Sorry wrote on February 10, 2008 8:02 am:
" Why are some of you dems go nasty? If you want republicans to vote for your candidate, you should at least be nice about posting. "

 cade wrote on February 10, 2008 8:06 am:
" if obama wins i to will vote a republican in office "

 WCG wrote on February 10, 2008 8:19 am:
" Come on, Achelpohl, you heard Nebraska! We need your support for Barack Obama, too. This guy is ground-breaking. Just think of the enthusiasm (and new Democrats!) he's brought to our state. Clinton is a return to a horribly polarized past; only Barack Obama can lead us into a new future. Sure, after 7 years of Bush/Cheney, it's hard to hope again. After the last two presidential elections, you don't want to get your hopes up, do you? And it's easy to look at the past through rose-colored glasses. The Clinton supporters I talked to (there were only 3 in my precinct) wanted to return to the 1990's. But that's the wrong direction for the Democratic Party, and the wrong direction for America. Sure, the future can be scary. The past is safe, because you already know what happened. But we can't go backwards, we can't return to the past. FORWARD is the only direction for us. And we should go forward bravely, confidently, proudly, and honestly - forward with Barack Obama, the one presidential candidate who can really HEAL our country. "

 ca wrote on February 10, 2008 9:27 am:
" i think we may be losing sight of what happened last night. this was about a chance to push back the curtain of fear that has been dropped on us by the current administration, their cold-war policies, and their oppresive rhetoric. the future is the point and the prize for those who can unite us in hope and action. there is time enough to discuss the issues. let us not tie ourelves down with bickering. "

 Hey Sorry wrote on February 10, 2008 10:03 am:
" It matters to you if Clinton or Obama wins the nomination? Nebraska will deliver the electorial votes to the R condidate, no matter who the candidates are. "

 ted wrote on February 10, 2008 10:05 am:
" Nebraska Democrats should be ashamed. Instead of having a party primary where everyone could vote, they only counted 10% of registered Democrats - those who could physically go to one place at a specific time. In every state that had held a party primary the vote was almost even. This will cost the Democrats votes in November. "

 DP wrote on February 10, 2008 10:28 am:
" Supporting gay rights might work in primaries but when it comes to the general election I doubt Obama or Hillary will be bringing that topic up too much since the majority of Americans are still against gay marriage. "

 To Not Gay for Obama wrote on February 10, 2008 10:52 am:
" You are right that there are many major issues in this race but you have to understand that everyone "sorts" the importance of the issues differently. A mother with a son and a husband fighting overseas is going to focus on something different than a gay man with insurance, who's partner is sick doesn't have insurance. Is it your place to tell either which political issue they should be voting for? I don't think that the GLBT community is putting themsleves at the forefront more than anyone else. Perhaps it just seems so because this is Nebraska and we tend to still be backwards on a lot of things. "

 WE wrote on February 10, 2008 11:01 am:
" OH NO, RUN FOR THE HILLS! I don't support Obama either, but I would never resort to voting replubican just in spite. If your that perterbed by it, move to Utah or Idaho and live in the woods with the anti-government freaks, shooting at paper tanks and helicopters in your preperation for taking over the country. "

 Zoomie wrote on February 10, 2008 11:18 am:
" I've got no problem with either Clinton or Obama as the person I'll vote for in November (the worst Dem running this year is light years ahead of ANY of the GOPers). My first choice was Edwards, but now I prefer Clinton. I think healthcare reform is vital, and Obama's plan will fail to cover more than half of the uninsurced, while Clinton's will cover more than 90% (and worse, Obama uses GOP attack points to criticize the Clinton plan, only strengthening the GOPs position opposing reform!). And why does he have to keep copying the GOP in claiming Social Security, which is actually successful and likely to remain successful as is, is somehow about to collapse? He shouldn't be helping to feed GOP fearmongering! "

 Josh wrote on February 10, 2008 11:55 am:
" To: Not gay for Obama - LGBT rights may not be on your priority list, but for those of us who are, it is - just as blacks want a black president and women would love a woman for president. Get over your, not so gay self. "

 BYOB wrote on February 10, 2008 12:23 pm:
" I am appalled. Our public schools should not be used for politics, we didn't give permission to expend the energy and use to these people. The tax payers own the schools and the good ole boy politicians use them for whatever they want, they can go rent a hall like the rast of us have to.
These buildings are for the education of our children only and not for the political promotion of anyone including Obama. You lawmakers need to get a law on the books that will stop the abuse and use of our facilities or make it so they have to pay just like they were renting a hall, this burns me up. "

 Des wrote on February 10, 2008 1:12 pm:
" Well, Obama won it, but only about 10% of the state's registered Dems came out to vote. I'm honestly curious as to why there weren't more of them out at the polls. "

 shoopoo wrote on February 10, 2008 1:18 pm:
" I'm an independent, registered. None of these people appeal to me. They all have some work to do to convince me, although I do know any more Clinton monarchy years are unacceptable. "

 dem wrote on February 10, 2008 1:23 pm:
" Republican Before Obama-


you're not really a democrat then anyway. so see yeah. "

 Republican wrote on February 10, 2008 1:27 pm:
" I am a Republican, if Hilary gets the nom, I WILL vote for whomever if the Rep. candidate. If Obama gets it, you'd better belive he will get my vote. ANYONE BUT HILARY!!!!!!! "

 What a Joke wrote on February 10, 2008 1:46 pm:
" WOW! What a victory. 10% of registered democrats attend a out of control party (without alcohol) and think some message was sent. Only messages I see are caucases are a joke. No one in there right mind wants to stand around for an hour and a half to cast their "vote". Simply ridiculous - I wanted to vote for Hillary but there is no way I am standing around some hall listening to morons chanting just to get my 2 cents in. Our entire election system from the primaries (eliminate caucases) to the electoral college and to reducing the lenght of time and money involved needs to be changed. If not we will continue to be misled by the media and candidates. "Sweep Nebraska = 10% of registered voters = Obrama's share = like 6%" I will not call that a sweep. More like a sleep. "

 sorry again wrote on February 10, 2008 4:22 pm:
" I'm with ya Sorry. VOTE MCCAIN '08! :-D "

 Intelligent? wrote on February 10, 2008 4:26 pm:
" Glossy-eyed Nebraskans "hoping" in a time that is not for just that. Poor, poor choices you make. Ah well McCain will win anyway. "

 Mindless Robot wrote on February 10, 2008 5:00 pm:
" Get use to the Sour Grapes from the Bush style Conservatives. They've worn out their welcome. "

 Surprise wrote on February 10, 2008 5:01 pm:
" You dems need to party hardy while you can. If Obamas your candidate, Nebraska will go republican again. You had a chance with Hillary but you blew it. "

 GramMar wrote on February 10, 2008 6:36 pm:
" Excuse you, Josh. I am a woman and I certainly do not feel a WOMAN is necessarily the best candidate for President. Please do not generalize when you have nothing to back your comment. There is so much to be "fixed" in this world, noone will be able to do it in one term, but Mr. Obama certainly will get a good start in doing so. "

 SNIT VOTERS WE DEMS DONT NEED YOU! wrote on February 10, 2008 6:45 pm:
" If you are truly a Democrat...you would NOT go Republican just because Obama won! I am an Obama supporter but I would gladly vote for Hillary before going Republican. I am literally ashamed of those of you who would do otherwise. How dare you call yourselves Republicans. Obviously you are nothing more than a whiny and immature not to mention incapable of an intelligent idea. PLEASE DO NOT VOTE IF YOU ARE NOT INTELLIGENT ENOUGH TO DO SO!!! "

 Schools have always been used for polling!!! wrote on February 10, 2008 6:51 pm:
" Okay...to the person who complained about schools being used...ummm yeah where have you been the last years of voiting? I am 31 years old and for as long as I can remember in every community I have lived in schools have been used as polling places FOR BOTH PARTIES. I don't know if that is seriously what you have to complain about...you should not even be part of the political scene as a voter or anything else!!! "

 Crystal wrote on February 10, 2008 8:49 pm:
" Oh my goodness! I am appalled at everyone! The reason nothing changes, is because everyone makes excuses to prevent those changes. "I wont' vote for a dem because we are a gop state." Of course neb is! Because no one bothers to vote and try to change things! You don't HAVE To vote gop because that' what you've always done! Our country is at a critical point and we need to focus on who can handle what's to come and get help us head in the right direction! So everyone-dems, gops, gays, blacks, men, women, etc...get over yourselves and try to think about the country as a whole, because it WILL affect you! "

 JPB wrote on February 10, 2008 9:26 pm:
" Dems have won Nebraska's electoral votes only 5 times in US Presidential Election history...enjoy the partying and pomp. "

 Easiest way to win a presidency... wrote on February 10, 2008 9:28 pm:
" Have a little proven track record and be a good speaker that can make people feel good about themsevles. Personally, I'd like to know Obamas plans for delivering half of his campaign promises. We need a president with a plan, not an inspirational speaker you'd hear at some conference for depressed people. "

 Jeff wrote on February 10, 2008 9:40 pm:
" Regardless of the shortcomings of yesterday, it was exciting and engaging. Of course there is work to be done.

I have to be realistic.... Senator McCain is 71 years old. Many changes are left to be accomplished over the next four years. His time to run the presidency is past. He has give many noble years to our country. But very honestly, he is too old to run this country.

Our country needs progression and healing. Our country is critical to the worlds stage. So much damage has been done over the last 8 years. Let's end the insanity today. Let's start new. "

 zorc wrote on February 10, 2008 10:32 pm:
" Why do people have to vote for the "other side" if their candidate doesn't win primaries? That's like wasting a vote!

Oh, and those who complain about Obama being a talking head for "change", why not go to his website? He clearly lines out his entire platform there, and does not just explain things in vague platitudes. His speeches in my opinion are more for "inspiration", hence the "change". "

 Mike White wrote on February 11, 2008 1:21 am:
" I am a parent who pays for these schools, I don't care how many years they have been used for polling, it's wrong and the politicians are taking advantage of us all by using them and not paying a dime. Politicians have always been corrupt and always will be, using our public schools for free is just proof of how they take what they want, they have millions of dollars in their election funds, they don't have a problem spending it for expensive T.V. advertising, why not to rent the schools and give us a little tax relief? "

 good time wrote on February 11, 2008 9:58 am:
" We are ripe for a third party. I really think a third party could win theis thing.

I too saw that they were so disorganized. They said it was a bigger turn out than they expected 10%. Gee normally close to 20% vote what would they have done if 20% canme out. "

 Shadow wrote on February 11, 2008 10:17 am:
" once again i cant stand any of the people left. they should start including a selection on the voting forms that state "none of the above" so that if the majority doesnt like any of the candidates, which is usually the case, we dont have vote for one of them. now thats democracy! "

 I'm torn wrote on February 11, 2008 10:29 am:
" As a die-hard Democrat, I missed my daughter's basketball game to attend the caucus. And two days later, I'm still not sure if my vote was counted. I found the entire thing to be confusing and uninspiring. I was so looking forward to going and making history. The thing is, by having it at a certain time of the day, we eliminated a lot of people because they couldn't or wouldn't come at that time. I'm glad I had the experience, but once was enough. I'd much rather go to the polls when it's convenient for me (and my fellow Dems), thereby including as many voters as possible. Having said that, I was proud to cast my vote for Obama. And even though I want Obama as our next president, if Clinton ends up as the nominee, she will get my vote. How anyone can even consider voting for four more years of the Repuglican mess we're in now is beyond me! "

 NOTBRAINWASHED wrote on February 11, 2008 11:46 am:
" 1st Choice Hillary
2nd Choice McCain
No Choice Obama "

 Is petty "revenge" really that important? wrote on February 11, 2008 12:33 pm:
" ... Is it really so important that you would vote Republican if it's not Hillary on the ticket? Come on, Dems. Can we not all see what a Republican administration has done to us for the past 8 years? Are people really going to be so childish that they'll put another Republican in the White House rather than vote for a Democrat they've decided, for whatever reason, they don't like? This election IS far too important for that sort of nonsense. If you really care so little about the future of your country, then I'd rather see you abstain from voting than to vote opposite what you should know, in your head and heart, to be the better choice. "

 Greg B. wrote on February 11, 2008 12:51 pm:
" I too am gay and will vote for Obama. Thank you. "

 Using schools wrote on February 11, 2008 1:16 pm:
" To use the schools - rent was paid. This wasn't free AND it was paid for with NO tax dollars. If you have a problem with us in schools at a time when school wasn't in session and cleaning up after ourselves (including picking up some trash that wasn't there when we came in) - how about getting the primary and general elections out of the schools? They take over when classes are in session! "

 MJ wrote on February 11, 2008 2:22 pm:
" I can't even believe Obama is running for president. What a joke, he is pathetic. "

 JK wrote on February 11, 2008 2:25 pm:
" To those of you who say you'll vote GOP if your candidate doesn't get the nomination... Please remember we (Democrats/Progressives) are all on the same team. We're just trying to figure out who to put in the starting line-up. The goal is to Win the White House. I will proudly vote for either candidate, even if my candidate doesn't get the nomination. "

 Eric S. wrote on February 11, 2008 2:45 pm:
" I am a transgendered individual and will be voting for Obama. Thank you. "

 m wrote on February 11, 2008 3:58 pm:
" I know one thing - the Democrats who caucused on Saturday night were heard by the nation and our votes were counted by the national party.

For you Republicans - sorry, but you're going to be taken for granted by your party AGAIN. "

 NIna wrote on February 11, 2008 5:34 pm:
" Democrats, you CAN vote in the primary. This caucus is IN ADDITION TO the primary, not INSTEAD OF, unless I've been seriously mislead. The fuss about political events in the public schools makes me appreciate our own, smaller-town schools, which often double as community events centers. Let's see, recently I've been to an auction to raise money for the community boosters club, and a gospel concert. In the past I've attended Jaycees' and Knights of Columbus events there, and a concert from a Branson group. We've had funerals there when the crowd was too much for a local church (I read of famous people who had 300 at their funerals and think, wow, we've had twice that many at some funerals in our town). Unless things have changed, the school is paid for by taxes paid by community members, and is therefore for the community's use when it is not needed for school classes or events. "

 Blu wrote on February 11, 2008 6:56 pm:
" Nina, the presidential candidates will be on the primary ballot in May but it is only a "beauty contest". The delegates were decided with Saturday's caucus. "

 No wrote on February 11, 2008 9:32 pm:
" I'm not voting against the party, I'm voting for a person. My choice is Clinton, but if she doesn't win the nomination, I will go with my second choice which is McCain. I don't like Obama or Huckabee. Do I have to make that any clearer for some of you? There is no snit vote, only MY vote for MY choice, not a party. "

 Sol wrote on February 11, 2008 9:42 pm:
" Besides schools, were else should caucuses be held? Churches are off limits because there are some mainstream religion that do not allow the appearance of enter another house of worship or attached buildings. Libraries are a good choice, but why libraries and not schools? Bars and restaurants are great but have the potential to be a bit seedy. Hotels would be the best, but generally paying customers get priority. And finally, there are only so many non-religious meeting halls that might volunteer their services. Schools seem like the best option in many precincts. "

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