Reply #4: good response [View All]

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"The individuals in this case could make it irrelevant - especially in comparison to whoever the rethug candidate is."

I wondered if support for these particular candidates could transcend their race, gender, or ethnicity. Although I personally feel that the three I mentioned may have other characteristics which could exacerbate any opposition based on these because of individual controversy, shortcomings, or lack of organizational support from the groups which would be sympathetic to their particular association.

For instance, Richardson lacks a Latino name which would automatically identify him with that group. Obama hasn't been involved in 'black issues' on a national level and could be seen as outside of some movement or caucus. Clinton may have trouble attracting a solid bloc of women because of the wide divergence of issues and concerns shared by the female community.

For that matter, it does seem like there is more diversity these days within these groups which has caused a splintering support from what may have once been solid defensive blocs of blacks, Latinos, women, etc.. There may not be a ready mass of support from these for candidates to appeal to.

I do think that there will emerge folks who get involved in the process just out of opposition to these categories. I remember the last election brought out record numbers of Democrats; but it also brought out record numbers of republicans stirred up by the demagogues' cynical campaigning.