Saturday, April 26, 2008

Where Have All The Edwards' Supporters Gone?

Gone to Obama's campaign, yes they are.

Well not every single one of them, but by and large, the progressive message that attracted so many to John Edwards campaign last year led many over to Senator Obama's side once John stepped aside. Not only was this my opinion among many in the ensuing days after Edwards resigned his campaign but the facts prove it.

From The Hill:


Since Edwards dropped out of the presidential race, Obama’s campaign has received contributions of $200 or more from 1,089 donors who had supported Edwards, according to Federal Election Commission (FEC) records.

Only 393 Edwards donors have given to Clinton since the primary became a two-candidate race. Since Edwards withdrew on Jan. 30, Obama has raised nearly $1 million from Edwards donors, compared to the $427,000 that has flowed to Clinton.

The strong bias among Edwards’s supporters prompts Obama’s allies to hope for an endorsement by the former candidate that could help him in big states, such as Ohio and Pennsylvania, that were won by Clinton.

It isn't only the money either. Not one single publicly known Edwards supporter has gone to Clinton. Many in Edwards' inner circle have also made it known they now endorse and support Barack Obama. Many say it is because of the similar economic message, but I believe it is broader than that. Clinton is a DLC centrist. Obama has a new way forward that signifies hope and change. That new way also harkens back to the progressive views that won over so many in the working class in years past...and it can do it again.