Dear John

[Tennessee Gal]

I believe in you and your causes. I supported you with my money and my time. I voted for you in Tennessee early voting. When you dropped out I was heartbroken.

I studied both of the remaining candidates and watched their behaviors, as well as the behaviors of their supporters. I watched to see if you would endorse or make any comments whatsoever. You did not. I had to move on because I so sincerely want a Democrat to win in November and I have time and money to give to that cause.

I considered supporting Obama initially, especially during the raucous days following the South Carolina primary and the Nevada caucuses. I was upset with the actions of Bill Clinton who I had considered the most astute political mind of our times.

However, I was also leary of the lack of substance represented by Obama in his speeches. I was amazed that people seemed so mesmerized by him and it seemed to be based on his ability to express himself through soaring rhetoric alone. I waited for his followers to be able to communicate their support for him based upon substantive policies beneficial to the Americans you had spoken for. I did not see it or hear it. I began to feel an uneasiness about Obama's lack of substance and experience, both in political involvement and in understanding the vicious attacks awaiting him from the right wing.

Meanwhile, I listened to Hillary. I observed Bill Clinton understanding that he had gone too far and his coming to terms with his political and governmental place. I compared Hillary's years of political involvement, causes fought for, and experience fighting the most vicious attacks of the right wing to those of Obama. There is no doubt in my mind that for those reasons Hillary has the advantage in winning back the White House for the Democrats.

But it is not just political. I have come to truly believe that Hillary understands the causes you stand for, John. In the end I have come to believe that Hillary deserves my support. I hope you will come to that same conclusion.

I still hope with all my heart that some day I will have the opportunity to vote for John Edwards for President of the United States.

[saracat]

1. I agree. K and R

[Elspeth]

2. "I still hope with all my heart that some day I will have the opportunity to vote for John Edwards"

AMEN!!!

[LisaM]

3. Nice!

Thank you.

[Tennessee Gal]

4. Oh well, this is dropping like a rock.

Must not be many Edwards supporters here tonight.

[Bucky]

6. Lack of hysteria hurts your reception around here.

[Tennessee Gal]

9. In general I stay away from hysteria.

But I can damn sure argue with the best of them when it is called for!

[Usrename]

57. Edwards didn't take lobbyist or PAC money.

That was part of his message that hasn't ever filtered through to Hillary's campaign. I don't think she sees anything at all wrong with buying influence in Washington, does she? An yet Edwards made it out to be the biggest difference between them. Every chance he got, he said it. Every single debate, at every single opening in the discussion.

Other than that one huge distinction, Edwards claimed all three of them had much more in common than they had differences. Whenever someone claims that Clinton has suddenly picked up John's message it seems like they didn’t understand John's message at all.

For Edwards, the way Washington does business won't work for advancing any agenda that is centered upon "the good of the people."
Hillary says it all works just fine, Washington is tailored for responding to corporate interests. Because lobbyists are real people too.

Obama, not Clinton, is the one who actually seems more sensitive to John's message, having made the vow to not accept PAC money. Of course, back when Obama made the pledge, he wasn't really in any position to be offered a whole lot of PAC money anyhow, so it cost him nothing, certainly not as much as what it must have cost John.

In any event, it was the politically correct choice to not take the PAC money, IMHO. There just aren't that many other major policy differences between Clinton and Obama that I see. At least nothing meaningful. Just like John said, to be faithful to his own message. She doesn't offer any solutions that are any different than his. I don't see the substance that you are talking about, that she has and he doesn't have.

[Tennessee Gal]

60. Obama is not clean on that issue either.

[Bucky]

5. Well stated!

I disagree with everything you said (I'm an Obama guy), but it was well argued and comes from the heart. Thanks.

[Tennessee Gal]

7. Thanks for your kind response.

[avrdream]

8. Good for you on working through the issues.

I believe Hillary when she says that John is going to be a part of her administration. I believe it will be a big part and hope it has to do with repairing poverty.

[Hoof Hearted]

10. Thanks for the lovely and positive post. I hope you get to vote for JE for POTUS too!

There's no reason at all why it can't still happen!

:hug:

[waiting for hope]

11. Wonderfully written Tennessee Gal -

I'm glad you have found a home - I've been leaning Hillary but still waiting to hear what John is going to do. What I want most is whomever the nominee is, to take John's policies and really make them work.

K&R!

[Tennessee Gal]

12. Soft, reasoned posts don't get much response any more.

I suppose I should have titled it: "John, tell Obama to kiss your ass!"

That might have gotten attention, but it would not have been in character for me (most of the time).

[BlackVelvet04]

17. LOL Yeah, that would have done it.

Nice post.

[girl gone mad]

13. I was more torn than I thought I would be.

In the end, I'll still probably vote for Obama, though he and his supporters haven't exactly won me over. There is a lot to admire about Hillary and passionate, informed supporters like you serve her cause well.

[NastyRiffraff]

14. Well said!

I too hope I get a chance to vote for John, and I too was heartbroken when he withdrew.

I made a similar journey from John to HIllary. At first I thought she was simply a better choice than Obama. Now after seeing more of her, I'm actively supporting her.

[bpeale]

73. me too. count this edwards supporter in for Hillary

i'm actually becoming more enthusiastic a supporter of hers. the rudeness of obama's supporters have not helped his cause (which should be to win over the Edwards supporters). they seem to think that if Edwards throws his support to Obama that we all will follow as a given. i am not a sheep! i think for myself. and given what i know of john's policies, i think hillary is a better fit for them.

an enthusiastic two thumbs up! fine holiday fare!

[gateley]

15. What a lovely, heartfelt letter to a man you admire so much. Thank you for

sharing it.

[Tennessee Gal]

16. Thank you for your kind response.

[hayu_lol]

18. We could certainly use more threads like this one...

thank you TG.

k&r

[ArkySue]

19. Nice post. Thank you.

:kick:

[rodriguez94]

21. John's site is going down...

tomorrow...

bid your kind farewells there now...

www.johnedwards.com

see the blog

peace to you all,

tina

[Tennessee Gal]

24. John Edwards does not need a web site in order to be remembered.

He isn't gone from the national scene. He will play a role somehow.

[mth44sc]

20. This Edwards supporter

just wonders about the first Clinton Administration. Yep - there was a raise in the minimum wage. Yep - poor folk had their boats lifted by good economic times (though not as much as the rest of us) - but beyond that - who can remember anything that was done to help poor folk. What they got was "welfare reform"

Other than that they were not much mentioned.

Hillary might have other ideas - but this is most certainlt a part of that 35 years of experience we all hear so much about...

[Tennessee Gal]

22. I recall much more than that, but I am not in the mood to argue.

Have a nice night.

[mth44sc]

27. Dear Gal

I seldom set foot in here. For teh most part I find the water temp way to high for my liking. However, I'm certainly not above being reminded of something I might have forgotten.

Please feel free to know you can say your piece and I most certainly am not about to argue. Disagree - perhaps...

[jackson_dem]

52. 7 million folks were lifted out of overy by Bill

One specific thing he did was expand the earned income tax credit. That helped a lot of working people get out of poverty. The general economic progress also helped reduce poverty.

Welfare reform was not a positive but Clinton had no choice. He had a veto proof majority in Congress in favor of it. Opposing it would have been worse. By signing onto it he was able to moderate it a bit and deprive the rethugs of a political win.

[mtnsnake]

69. Bill saved us a ton of money when my kids went to college with his Hope Credit & Lifetime Learning

Credit bills he signed into law. We will be forever grateful to him for that.

[RaleighNCDUer]

124. "...deprive the rethugs of a political win."

by giving them exactly what they wanted.

Huh?

[Iceburg]

23. Great heartfelt and thoughtful post ...

I worked my butt off for Kerry&John for 4 months before AND for 5 months AFTER the election unravelling the Cuyahoga,Ohio debacle.
I was disappointed when they gave up without a fight. Hillary has championed the underdog against all odds for decades, she has faced the most vile attacks a person could ever possibly encounter and she has never given up ... yes, she is the one that gives me hope.

[bpeale]

74. just my $0.02 worth...

<<I was disappointed when they gave up without a fight>>

it was Kerry that gave up without a fight & conceded before all the votes were counted. John was furious with him because they had promised that ALL votes would be counted.

on edit: i think that is the basis for the animosity Kerry showed to Edwards in endorsing Obama.

[peacock]

79. It was indeed, Kerry who gave

up. Edwards wanted to fight. Boxer proposed that the Ohio vote not be sanctioned until a recount had been done. To be fair, not many - hardly any, Senators supported Boxer´s efforts. Obama didn´t and Clinton didn´t. So, that´s that as to who supports voters´rights. Edwards did and Boxer did; Kerry, Clinton and Obama didn´t.

[bpeale]

83. gave you one of my last 3 hearts for this post! thanks!

[ChiciB1]

101. Very True & Now I'm Very Upset With Kerry These Days! By Endorsing

Obama it seems as though he was just stabbing Edwards in the back. Also, it seems evident that he ONLY chose Edwards as a running mate because he thought Edwards would be a boost. From there, all I've heard and seen is that he didn't want Edwards to do anything other than what Kerry wanted him to.

The Edwards NOW is NOT the same Edwards as back then, STILL Kerry seems a bit DLC to me now! Kerry always seemed more liberal before and I waited a long time for him to finally run. He has let me down and it hurts!

[RaleighNCDUer]

126. Noteably, he was READY to fight, until McAuliffe (then head of DNC

and longtime DLC leader) made it clear he was NOT going to get the backing of the party in another contested election.

Lets put the onus where it belongs.

[LiberalHeart]

25. Kick

[babylonsister]

26. Lack of substance? If you're so concerned, why don't you

take the time to read what's been written on DU? Google his constitutional law prof who claimed Obama was the best student he ever had.

Read this about the freshman senator from a policy geek who noticed him way before he declared. It's not just about the campaign show, though that's impressive.

http://obsidianwings.blogs.com/obsidian_wings/2006/10/barack_obama.html

[Tennessee Gal]

28. Honey, I did my own research.

You ain't gonna bring me down with your attack tonight.

Bless your heart.

[babylonsister]

30. Not an attack at all, and I see you didn't take the time to even glance

at the link. I get what kind of research you did, and don't call me honey! :spank: Actually read the link and you can. :D

[Tennessee Gal]

32. Okay, I won't call you honey.

I beg your pardon.

But you don't know me.

I can do my own research and I have for many years.

I researched both Obama and Hillary.

I researched John Edwards.

Don't take me for some lightweight.

Again, you don't know me.

I will not argue with you tonight or anyone else.

[RaleighNCDUer]

127. IOW, you're here to take a position,

not to DEFEND it.

Have a nice night.

[KittyWampus]

31. No you didn't. Because if you did, you'd find Hillary's policy proposals are almost all vague

with little detail. And she ignores some very important issues such as Poverty and Telecommunications.

Of course you are entitled to support anyone you choose.

But saying Obama has no substance, ESPECIALLY compared to Clinton is provably false.

[Tennessee Gal]

38. I guess you overlooked the part where I said:

I studied both of the remaining candidates

[Pyrzqxgl]

88. Is anybody waiting to see which way John Edwards goes before making up their mind?

[Tennessee Gal]

129. If John takes a position different from my conclusion, I would listen to his reasons.

However, at this point in time my primary vote has already been cast. I am merely hoping that since John has dropped out and obviously will not be the nominee, he will either remain neutral or support the candidate I have chosen to support - Hillary Clinton. If John chooses to endorse Obama during the primaries, I would respect his decision. That does not mean I would agree with it. It also does not mean that I would lose faith in John Edwards.

[jackson_dem]

53. Everyone knows Barack is brilliant

And he may very well have deep policy views. Given his intelligence and how well read he is (based on his book) he almost certainly does. He hasn't told us what they are, though. We can't vote on hope that he will be what we want him to be. I, like TG, don't see many differences between the two and the few differences we do tend to be in Hillary's plus column.

[bpeale]

75. i don't care if obama was Jesus Christ in law school

and further don't care what some professor says about him.

[peacock]

80. How is that relevant?

One of our best presidents, HS Truman did not even go to college, if I recall correctly.

[hisownpetard]

110. Nice to see you back!!

[hisownpetard]

111. I agree. It's a beautiful thing.

And nice to see you back!

[KittyWampus]

29. Dear Tenn Gal, I'd be GLAD to discuss Obama's Policies on Poverty, Edwards' signature issue

Obama has a holistic, comprehensive plan. Hillary has nothing.

I'm also somewhat familiar with Obama's policy proposals on Telecommunications- things like Net Neutrality, limiting Media ownership, Broadband. Again, Obama has very detailed proposals while Clinton has nothing (except protecting kids from tv).

[Tennessee Gal]

34. As I have already stated, I do my own research.

I have for years.

I wish you a good evening.

[KittyWampus]

35. Can you enlighten us as to Hillary's policy proposals regarding Poverty as an Issue then?

you mention how she embodies Edwards' ideals.

What exactly WAS your criteria?

What did you research?

[Tennessee Gal]

37. This thread is not about arguing.

I am not going to argue with you, nor do I have to explain myself or my research practices.

It is obvious what you are attempting to do.

Have a good evening.

[JTFrog]

63. It appears to be a bit of reflecting.

Being vague about criticizing someone for being vague. :shrug:

[Tennessee Gal]

64. Yet, had I been specific about policies it would have given those who disagree

opportunities to slam. That was not the purpose of what I wrote.

[JTFrog]

66. And you would dismiss a candidate for using that same strategy.

Interesting.

[Tennessee Gal]

70. The operative word is "candidate."

Candidates should communicate specifics.

I am merely posting on DU.

[JTFrog]

72. Did you know

that Obama was originally criticized for exactly what you say you want from him. Early on he was called too professorial for going into too much detail about his policies.

Now he is inspiring millions and bringing people out in record numbers to support democrats.

I am surprised that your research led you to your candidate of choice, but that is what democracy is about. As long as the information is accessible, people are free to make their own choices.

Good luck to you and your candidate.

[boston bean]

71. Could you start with health care for the poor and (all), explain why

you think Obama's represents JRE's health care platform? To me, JRE and HRC have almost identical universal health care platforms. This helps each of us lift each other up. Both HRC & JRE's have choices and some may want to stay where they are. Personally, I would like to have the options that our US senators have. Both JRE & HRC's plans provide for the poor to only pay what they can afford. I am always interested in hearing the contrasts. So where do JRE and BHO's health care platforms sound the same to you?

Then maybe you can tell me how JRE & BHO agree on making nice with the Republicans instead of fighting them?

[RaleighNCDUer]

128. I gotta say, Tenn Gal is offering every bit as much substance

as Hillary is.

[Bongo Prophet]

33. A very moving post, TG. WE all make our choices according to our own criteria.

Sometimes people knock others' decisions, or the process by which they reach those decisions. My partner is mostly intuitive, but she is a deep digger into who finances whom, etc, while I am a comparative list maker and scenario visualizer. We often come to the same place but through different routes, and we each share what we think along the way.

In my opinion, the best way to get real policy details is in their websites and position papers, and not speeches. Rallies and town hall forums are a way to get a feel for their respective personalities. Each are important in their way.
The irritating people in the two extreme camps are a tiny minority, and not always what they claim to be. There are many mischief makers on the net. Try to not let them sway you, or make you feel bad in any way about your decision.

It belongs to you and you alone, hard won and sacred.

Each vote is a precious thing, and only a small part in the democratic process. Whoever gets the nom, we have to work to get them elected, and then work to su
My partner and I were also very receptive to john's message, and I still have my Kerry/Edwards sticker on my truck. That will only come off when I make my final decision, or maybe when the nominee is chosen. Here is hoping a high position in an Obama or Clinton cabinet - it would be an excellent step toward that possible presidency you hope for. More than that, it would allow him to work on the issues that we care about.

Thank you for this post. :hi:

[Tennessee Gal]

36. Thank you for your kind response.

I can assure you that no one here will make me feel bad about my decision.

I have done my own research - in depth - on issues for years and years.

So, I come to my conclusions through both research and observations.

I got used to that process a long time ago and put it into practice for a while writing for Buzzflash.

I believe you are right that somehow John Edwards will make an important contribution.

[Bongo Prophet]

43. Right on, TGal, I hope we take Tennessee in november - talk about a miracle!

You have a great way with words - I might have read you on buzzflash back in the day...
Your tone is so personable and still concise, something i find impossible to do.

your post just seemd so reasoned and...measured is probably right...that I thought you might be targeted by the stupid hoard.
We need more posters like you in GDP to help lift up the discourse - think about that.

I kind of hope john does not endorse - I want him in either candidate's cabinet..
Peace and see ya 'round!

[Tennessee Gal]

45. You are too kind.

Thank you.

And if you would like to read a few of my pieces from Buzzflash here are my favorites:

Liberty!
http://www.buzzflash.com/southern/2002/05/27_southern.html

Why I Am A Democrat
http://www.buzzflash.com/contributors/2002/05/09_Democrat.html

The Finer Points of Liberalism
http://www.buzzflash.com/contributors/2002/05/13_Liberalism.html

[Tennessee Gal]

39. kick for John

[AX10]

40. Let me give this it's 25th rec!

:hi:
I would like to see a Clinton/Edwards ticket.

[Tennessee Gal]

42. I really don't expect John to go for VP again.

I would like to see him in a cabinet position.

[vssmith]

84. I would like to see Edwards on the Supreme Court

[nonconformist]

41. I totally agree, from another Edwards supporter who is backing Hillary. K & R. nt

[southern_dem]

44. I went the other way

but this is a great post and I respect your opinion. Personally, I think it may be better for John not to endorse anyone and pursue his causes in the Al Gore manner, but that's his decision and I'll respect that too.

K&R for you. :)

[Tennessee Gal]

46. Al Gore's endorsement of Howard Dean did not keep him from

pursuing his causes.

I believe John could do it either way. However, John never got as far as Al Gore in that Gore did get the nomination and run for President.

[peacock]

82. I think that would

be best too. I say that as a fierce Edwards supporter. I don´t want him to endorse anyone unless they adopt his policy positions.

Obama´s health care and energy policies are too far from JRE´s for me to accept. Besides that, Obama has outright dissed Edwards´s healtcare policy. Clinton is closer to JRE on policy. Heck, she has already adopted his health care policy. She´s closer on energy too.

As to running for VP again, Edwards has said no. As to a cabinet position I really hope not. Think it would be better for Edwards to go his own route as Gore did. Think it would be great if he concentrated on rebuilding New Orleans. That effort would incorporate all thet JRE has been fighting for: rebuilding the city; countering lobbyists; instituting health care and education; fighting poverty; rebuilding "green", etc.. NO could become a model city.

[Tennessee Gal]

91. I like the idea of Edwards rebuilding NO!

I could also see him as AG or on the Supreme Court.

[SammyWinstonJack]

47. I am voting for Hillary against Obama.

I am an Edwards Democrat.

[Tennessee Gal]

48. What state?

[SammyWinstonJack]

49. texas

[Tennessee Gal]

50. Great!

What is your sense of the outcome there?

[SammyWinstonJack]

51. Oh who knows, it's Texas afterall.

:silly:

[jackson_dem]

54. Beautiful post

I too hope that one day we can vote for Edwards for president again. Hey, maybe he will be the compromise choice at the convention? Or maybe we will get another chance in 2016. Clinton-Edwards? Obama-Edwards?

[Divine Discontent]

55. Although we disagree on Clinton, I agree with you on how much we support John

and I hope he hears yours, mine, and all of our messages about how much we care about him running for president again someday. He's still young. I hope Obama or Clinton picks him for VP, he'd make a great one, and then could run a stronger presidential campaign after they were out of office. Something I repeatedly see from all of us Edwards supporters, we really miss him in this race.


My own Dear John letter from a few days ago

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=132&topic_id=4453266

[colorado_ufo]

56. You have echoed my sentiments.

[aquarius dawning]

58. My family was on board with JE in 2004. We were all disappointed when he stepped out.

And, like you, we're now on board with Hillary and for the same reasons. Despite what others might claim, she has fought the good fight for decades and has earned our respect.

[Libby2]

59. I'm right there with you.

[philly_bob]

61. Tenn. Gal, you show a very calm and effective manner dealing with critics.

I enjoyed your OP. As another disappointed Edwards supporter, I haven't yet decided between HC and BO, but my primary isn't until April.

But what most impressed me is your kind yet I-don't-take-nonsense attitude to post-OP discussion, your refusal to be tempted into a playground battle of taunts and name-calling, your resistance to those who would lecture you about what you don't know that leads you to disagree with them.

Heart.

[Tennessee Gal]

62. Thank you.

I can lose my cool from time to time.

For example the other night I went off the deep end over posts trashing Bill Clinton's presidency! People were rewriting history and using right wing talking points right here on DU. I cannot abide that.

Most of the time I find it far more effective to remain calm in discussions.

[kurth]

65. Thanks for posting!

[chefgirl]

67. Well, I envy you TennesseeGal

I'm also an Edwards supporter. As a LONG time supporter of his, I had a much harder time deciding where my vote would go.

I've had a problem choosing between my heart and my head. In the end, because this is politics, my head won out.

We shall see.

I completely understand how you're feeling, though. I too was heartbroken when John withdrew. I can only hope for another day, another time.

-chef-

[ElsewheresDaughter]

68. GOOD ON YOU!!....I do too

[Irishonly]

76. Lovely Post

Your letter was written from the heart and I hope He and Elizabeth have the opportunity to read it. Senator Edwards brought out the best in people, didn't he?

As a former Edwards supporter I will vote for the nominee in November. We must all pull together to make sure a republican is never again in the WH. I hope both Clinton and Obama are wise enough to utilize him and our other great democratic leaders in some way in their administrations. We have the wisdom to bring change and honor back to our country.

[FirstLight]

77. K & R

:kick:

TGal, you nailed it so well... I voted for John in CA, and am still feeling lost in what comes next.
I really haven't researched more than a bit, but still have much of the same opinions about the remaining remaining Canidates...though I gues it doesn't matter now, I will still vote for a Dem in the GE, regardless.

your last oneliner rings in my heart as well...
and I hope against hope to someday hear the words "Ladies & Gentlemen, the President of the United States, John Edwards!"

*sigh* and I still weep for the loss of him, I miss him.

(edit for spelling, lack of coffee)

[Politicub]

78. K&R! - I started understanding what is meant by change (finally!)

The scales were removed from my eyes just a couple of days ago about Obama - I know, I'm kind of slow. :)

I'll be honest. I wanted to feel the Obama love like so many other on DU. I started to investigate what all of this hope and change is about - and then it dawned on me, that Obama is speaking about "changing the tone." That's it. His message is built to appeal to people who don't like politics, or who don't understand our political system. And, I'm all for more civility in politics, but not at the expense of selling ourselves out just to make the tone ring easier on the ears of those who don't care about politics in the first place.

Hillary's healthcare plan is superior to Obama's in a number of ways, and I have no issue with the fact that it will cost money to implement. The best ideas are never free, and I sincerely believe that Hillary will get us to John's vision of eventual single payer, while Obama's will not.

Plus, I believe Hillary will do more for civil rights than Obama. As a gay man, I don't expect much from Obama, but Hillary has always been a friend of the gay community - much more so than her husband.

[Tennessee Gal]

92. Good post!

I agree with you.

[0007]

81. bttft and recommend!

[IsItJustMe]

85. K&R

Change is good, but you have to know where you are going. Change in-and-of-itself is not a virtue.

[jsamuel]

86. I'll add my voice asking Edwards to endorse Hillary.

[surfermaw]

87. Right on from this North Carolina grandmother

[Tennessee Gal]

135. We grandmothers have to stick together.

I have three grandchildren. The oldest (4.5 years old) has Down syndrome. God Bless My Conner.

He is the reason for my politcal concerns, his health care, and his life-long disabilities.

I have never known the depth of love I have for my Conner.

[femrap]

89. K and R

I wonder if Edwards would consider VP?

[RedShoesBlueState]

90. Very well said

Nice to see that there are still some people here who can state their case eloquently and without taking nasty or sarcastic shots at other candidates. Thank you.

[demo dutch]

93. I'm afraid that's exactly how the GOP will slaughter Obama in the GE.Will he play the racecard then?

It's just not going to fly!!!!! Plus there are huge pockets in the country that won't vote for an African-American still. Politically incorrect but sadly, it's a reality whether we like it or not, & because of that reason he will become a devisive candidate

[johnaries]

94. Sorry, I have to agree with John when he said in the debates

that he and Obama represent change, while Hillary represents the status quo.

Also, Hillary has a very negative image with many Americans. It's not her fault, she has been demonized by the Right. But, unfortunately, it has resulted in a negative image among many Independents. She, has fought against it - but, frankly, she hasn't been entirely successful. Not NEARLY as successful as she tries to proclaim on the campaign trail.

[Tennessee Gal]

98. Well, we can't all agree.

I understand your position.

[CC]

95. Great letter to John and for

the rest of us. I have done pretty much the same thing but would never of been able to put it so well. Though I am still tempted to vote for John today. sigh Off to vote in the Chesapeake primary now.

[CC]

96. Great letter to John and for

the rest of us. I have done pretty much the same thing but would never of been able to put it so well. Though I am still tempted to vote for John today. sigh Off to vote in the Chesapeake primary now.

[shaniqua6392]

97. Excellent post.

Thanks!

[Kermitt Gribble]

99. Great letter, Tennessee Gal!

We have followed similar paths from John to Hillary.
Kudos to you for not arguing with the people who want to pick apart your wonderful letter!

[Tennessee Gal]

115. I have no interest in arguing.

I know what I feel in my heart. No one will distract me from that.

[Tennessee Gal]

122. Letting anyone pick my letter apart would defeat my purpose.

Other threads are for arguing.

This one is for John.

[raincity_calling]

100. I am waiting to see what John does

When John was still in the race, I always knew that there was a chance that he would drop out. And, prior to that point, I thought that I would move to the Obama camp when he did. However, when that time came, I just could not do it, for the reasons stated by Tennesee Gal.

However, when I began thinking about Hillary, I just couldn't go there either.

Both candidates have plus and minuses, but the minus side for both candidates is huge, which is why I have not been able to make up my mind.

So, I am waiting to see what John does. I trust that which ever candidate he chooses, regardless of my reservations, he will do so because of a deal he has managed to broker with that candidate. And I will trust that the deal is worth the endorsement and I will go with his endorsement.

I am a JE delegate at the precinct level. Our next level caucus isn't until April. I am hoping he will have made a decision by then so I will know how to cast my vote.

[Tennessee Gal]

125. I hope you will know John's decision by then also.

But you may not. He may not say a word.

What will you do under that circumstance?

[Raster]

102. I too hope that someday I will have the opportunity to vote for John Edwards for President.

I hope that our next President, be it Clinton or Obama, has the COURAGE and the FORESIGHT to enlist John Edwards to be a part of their administrations and to bring both his ideas and ideals into their governments. The state of our nation is grave. The health of our democracy is at its most precarious. NOW is the time for all good MEN AND WOMEN to come to their aid of their country. Our grace periods and second chances have come and gone. More is needed than hope-lifting rhetoric. Now is the time for life-changing action.

[Tennessee Gal]

116. I could not agree more.

"The state of our nation is grave. The health of our democracy is at its most precarious."

Believe me, I worry about this each and every day.

The Bush administration and their minions are to blame for this. Yet, right here on DU we see Democrats attacked. I just do not get that.

[SleeplessinSoCal]

103. Susan Sarandon still supports Edwards, but is backing Obama

She said this on Tavis Smiley last night.

[saracat]

105. So what?

[Tennessee Gal]

117. I respect Susan Sarandon. That does not mean I have to agree with her.

[Maat]

104. Dear John:

Here is an alternate opinion.

Please endorse Barack Obama, who, at least, seems to remember his ConLaw (Constitutional Law), and utters phrases such as "restoration of habeas corpus" and "imminent danger from deadly force (as being necessary prior to invasion/occupation)." Sen. Obama did NOT vote for the IWR, nor the Kyl-Lieberman Amendment. He DID vote 'yes' on the cluster bomb prohibition amendment. Sen. Obama has an extensive record of working with the community on civil rights issues, at least in his early days.

Please do not endorse the Hawk (the Warmonger, in my humble opinion). The Powers That Be have created a society in which many of the poor have painfully and reluctantly decided that they have no other choice but to enlist in the military in order to have a chance at supporting their families (and a chance at education). You, John, have consistently articulated a concern for their predicament. Please do not endorse a Hawk, who will perpetuate this situation, and who has openly stated that she will not be talking to her 'enemies,' as opposed to engaging in intelligent, open discussion with them.

Thanks,

Maat, J.D.

[saracat]

106. I consider this threadjacking. If you want to write to John, do it on your own dime.

[Tennessee Gal]

119. Thank you, sara.

[Tennessee Gal]

118. Start your own thread and get off of mine.

[Maat]

139. HeeHee ... in my day ...

it used to be called 'a reply,' instead of 'threadjacking.' I was actually stating to DUers what my opinion was, in response to your post. I've been on DU for years, and never heard that before.

Now that it was taken a certain way, however, I thought about it - and I did send it to John!

Be glad to leave - adios.

[saracat]

107. This is absolutely beautiful.I hope John reads it. I ,too hope to vote for John one day.

And I , too believe the Hillary is closest to John on social issues.Heck, her healthcare plan is based on his! Barack doesn't even support universal healthcare! Nope Obama will never get my vote no matter who endorses him. I voted for John in the primary and will write him in in the GE if Obama is the nominee.

[FlyingSquirrel]

108. I'm still on the fence.

I wish I weren't stuck with these two options, but at this point it no longer matters. I skipped my state caucus because I saw too much wrong with both to vote for either, and figured my vote for Edwards at this point would be meaningless. I've been leaning Obama for awhile but some things I've read lately make me uneasy. So at this point may the best candidate win and I'll support whoever wins (but not necessarily enthusiastically). For Hillary supporters' sake, I hope she proves them all right. Same for Obama.

[jlake]

109. Beautiful. I hope we see President Edwards someday.

And I hope we see President Hillary Clinton now, with John Edwards playing a major role in the administration.

[Jeffersons Ghost]

112. K&R

[kiva]

113. K&R

I've walked a similar path, from John to Hillary, but there are several pro-Hillary threads I've enjoyed reading but haven't recommended. The reason for this k&r is because I admire the way you've refused to allow a few belligerent people to change the tenor of your message. Thank you for this oasis in the desert.

[Tennessee Gal]

120. Thank you.

An oasis in the desert? I hope I have been successful at that. The vitriol here is beyond belief. We are supposed to be on the same side - the side of Democrats.

I have fought against - railed and screamed against - the right wing neanderthal mentality since I first became aware of it. I never thought I would encounter it on DU. Alas, I have seen it right here in the past few weeks.

[Johnny__Motown]

114. Lobbyists have invested in Hillary, you are now a return on their investment

Good Job

[Tennessee Gal]

121. Lobbyists have invested in Obama too.

John is not available to vote for any more. That makes me very sad.

[defendandprotect]

132. I thought Obama wasn't taking money from LOBBYISTS --- ?????

[Tennessee Gal]

133. Google on this: Obama lobbyists

See what you get.

[defendandprotect]

136. I see what you mean . . .

taking, not taking --- and hypocrisy --

plus lobbyists working on his campaign --

[7horses]

123. Good Post TN Gal

I'm still undecided and waiting to see what Edwards will do. Edwards got my early vote in Tennessee also.

[Tennessee Gal]

130. Our votes for Edwards were not in vain.

I am convinced of that.

[defendandprotect]

131. We have to defeat computer voting and corporation influence ---

Hillary is DLC ---

As far as I can see, Edwards was the one ---

And, I don't see how I could support Obama ---

I'm sure we'll all be paying a lot of attention ---

but I don't see that this nation will raise its hands to vote in another Republican ---

so ....

IMO, we could run a anyone and they'd get elected ---

America is anti-war . . . and especially anti the war in Iraq ---

How that let's Hillary thru, I'm not sure . . . ???

But -- as a woman --- I do recognize the desire to have a female elected . . . finally.

But I think this is the wrong woman -- very wrong.

[Tennessee Gal]

134. You seem to be in a real quandry.

That is understandable.

[defendandprotect]

137. No -- that was my argument against Motown's comments at #114 . . .

I'm not voting for either Hillary or Obama unless something earth-shaking happens --
I'll cast a vote for John Edwards or a third party candidate ---
NJ is a blue state so I have the luxury of following my conscience.

[Tennessee Gal]

138. Let me share a little more personally.

Let me share some things about my family and my future generations.

I have one child, a daughter, who is married with three children.

Yes, I have three grandchildren and their future depends upon the choices made right now.

My oldest grandchild is a boy. Conner is 4 1/2 years old. He has Down syndrome. We did not know this until he was born. At birth he was in intensive care for 5 days where his disability was confirmed.

Luckily and by the grace of God Conner does not have severe health issues, but he does have minor health issues that will follow him all of his life. He also has functional disabilities that mean he may need help as long as he lives.

Conner rarely speaks coherently. Occasionally I can understand that he is telling me that he loves me. Believe me, I love all of my grandchildren, but this little guy has taken my heart in ways that I never thought possible.

Currently Conner is having problems breathing due to extremely small airway and sinus passages. This is a problem that can be common with Down syndrome. On 2/19/08 Conner will undergo surgery to put tubes in his ears for the 4th time. He will also be checked to see if more in-depth and serious surgery will be needed on his airway passages and mouth so that his breathing is less labored.

While Conner has his medical care expenses covered by the state due to his disabilites, these are the type of health and emotional issues Americans live with on a day to day basis.

These are the types of things that tear at our hearts and, yes, our check books.

These are the types of things that demand our attention as we make our political choices.

These are the concerns that I believe only Democrats are intent upon addressing.

[Tennessee Gal]

140. kick

[Tennessee Gal]

141. Kick for Conner