Pullout By 4 Democrats Could Have Repercussions In Michigan

[Purveyor]

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But that was before Barack Obama, John Edwards, Bill Richardson and Joe Biden on Tuesday pulled their names off the Michigan Democratic primary ballot. Now, Democrats are left with a contest that is Hillary Rodham Clinton's to lose in a race between her and Chris Dodd, Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich.

Voters won't be able to choose from the entire Democratic field. And the eventual nominee could face soured opinions toward Democrats come November in this critical swing state.

That's something on which state Republican Chairman Saul Anuzis hopes to capitalize. The jump to Jan. 15 has made Michigan a hot destination for the Republican candidates, potentially coming after only the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary, both of which are expected to move up to stay ahead of Michigan.

The nine GOP hopefuls were in the state Tuesday for a presidential debate, and six of the nine were in Michigan last month speaking to more than 1,500 party activists at the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference. All are on the primary ballot.

Pollster Ed Sarpolus of Lansing-based EPIC-MRA says the decision by the four Democrats to drop off the ballot is a mistake because it will let Republicans define Democrats and the issues in the race.

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http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/michigan/index.ssf?/base/news-47/1192062400137720.xml&storylist=newsmichigan

[smiley_glad_hands]

1. What the hell are they talking about?

This is just for the primaries - Not the GE. Just more contrived BS. Follow the damn rules already Michigan & Florida.

[PATRICK]

2. This entire primary rush

was invented for the sole benefit of the GOP and shows how stupid and undisciplined Dem suckers can be "up there" in state legislatures. Half-assed maverick reforms are always gamed by the GOP. When will the DNC negotiate for a REAL Dem state primary, by paper mail ballot if necessary. Make the local Dem leaders who wanted to be so hot chip in for the expenses.