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Hawaii Congresswoman Mazie Hirono Endorses Barack Obama; Delegate Countdown - 160 To Go

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:27:32 EDT

Hawaii Congresswoman Mazie Hirono announced her support for Barack Obama today, citing his ability to unite the Democratic Party and bring about real change:

Today I announce my endorsement of Senator Barack Obama for President of the United States. I do so after watching these historic campaigns unfold across our country, where hundreds of thousands of people participated as never before. It is clear that Americans want our country back on a course of hope and opportunity.

I make my announcement with deep respect and admiration for Hillary Clinton. She is an extraordinary woman. However, it is time to unite the party behind Senator Obama and to use our energy and resources to defeat Senator John McCain. Barack Obama can unite our Party and our country and bring about the positive changes Americans want.

Of course, all of us are especially proud of Senator Obama's deep roots here in our state, and overwhelmingly embraced his candidacy in our recent caucus. His love for Hawaii and understanding of its diversity have given him a foundation for understanding the diversity of our country. I am proud to endorse Senator Obama and I look forward to a winning campaign.

Hirono is the 271st superdelegate to endorse Barack Obama. Obama is 160 delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination.

New Mexico Superdelegate Endorses Obama; Delegate Countdown - 161 To Go

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:10:56 EDT

The New Mexico Independent has just announced:

Laurie Weahkee, New Mexico's newest -- and most coveted -- super delegate, just threw her support behind Obama.
"After the primary elections in Indiana and North Carolina, it is now absolutely clear that Barack Obama will be our nominee," Weahkee, lead organizer for the Native American Voters Alliance, writes in a statement e-mailed to the Independent. She adds, "Obama has proven that he can campaign in a difficult environment and still inspire thousands of new voices to take part in the democratic process."

You can read the full interview with Weahkee in which she explains how she decided to endorse Barack.

Laurie Weahkee is the 270th superdelegate to endorse Barack Obama. Obama is 161 delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination.

South Carolina Superdelegate Endorses Obama; Delegate Countdown - 162 To Go

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:56:38 EDT

Today, Wilber Lee Jeffcoat, the Democratic Party Vice Chair in South Carolina and Democratic superdelegate endorsed Barack Obama. In endorsing Barack, Jeffcoat explained:

Barack Obama inspired thousands of new voters in my state of South Carolina to get involved in our democratic process and I am proud to announce my endorsement today. With Barack Obama as our nominee, we can bring more and more new voters out to become involved and have their voices heard. Obama has worked his whole life to unite people from all backgrounds and walks of life for change, he has done that in this campaign and he will continue to do that as President. I am excited to join his campaign today.

Jeffcoat is the 269h superdelegate to endorse Barack Obama. Obama is 162 delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination.

Barack's Economic Discussion in Beaverton, OR

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:30:00 EDT

Barack is campaigning in Oregon today, and this morning he held an economic discussion with workers in Beaverton. During his speech, Barack outlined some of the important policy differences between himself and John McCain.

Here is the full text of Senator Obama's remarks, as prepared for delivery:

It’s great to be back in Oregon. Over the last fifteen months, we’ve travelled to every corner of the United States. Now I know that if you listen to Washington or pay attention to the pundits, you hear a lot about how divided we are as a people. But that’s not what I’ve found as I’ve travelled across this great country.

Everywhere I go, I’ve been impressed by the values and hopes that we share. In big cities and small towns; among men and women; young and old; black, white, and brown – Americans share a faith in simple dreams. A job with wages that can support a family. Health care that we can count on and afford. A retirement that is dignified and secure. Education and opportunity for our kids. Common hopes. American dreams.

That’s why this election is so important. Because for far too many Americans, those hopes and dreams are slipping away. We just came through the first period of sustained economic growth since World War II that saw incomes drop. People are working harder for less. You’re paying more for gas, and groceries, and tuition. Millions of families are facing foreclosure. We’ve already lost hundreds of thousands of jobs this year.

To be sure, some of these problems are a result of changes in our economy that no one can control. But instead of helping, Washington’s policies have made it worse. Instead of expanding opportunity for working people, we’ve tried to grow our economy from the top down, and eventually that pain trickled up. Instead of making sure that people can live their dreams on Main Street, we’ve tilted the scales for special interests and Wall Street. Instead of saying “we’re all in this together” as Americans, Washington has sent a message that says – “you’re on your own.”

John McCain has served his country with honor, and I respect that service. But it was dead wrong when he said recently that he thinks our economy has made “great progress” under George Bush. Is there anyone outside of Washington D.C, who could truly believe that? Do you? Senator McCain is running for President to double down on George Bush’s failed policies. I am running to change them, and that will be the fundamental difference in this election when I am the Democratic nominee for President.

We have a difference on taxes. John McCain wants to continue George Bush’s tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans; I want to give a tax cut to working people. I admired Senator McCain when he said he could not “in good conscience” support the Bush tax cuts. But now, as the Republican nominee, he’s fully embraced them. He wants to give a permanent tax cut to the wealthiest Americans who don’t need them and didn’t ask for them while working people are struggling. And for all his talk about fiscal responsibility, he’s proposed $400 billion in tax cuts without any word about how he’ll pay for him. That’s exactly the kind of attitude that has shifted the burden on to the middle class, and mortgaged our children’s future on a mountain of debt.

I think it’s time to restore fairness and responsibility to our tax code. We need to reward work – not just wealth. We need to stop giving tax breaks to companies that ship jobs overseas, and put a tax cut in the pockets of middle class Americans. That’s why I’ve proposed a “Making Work Pay” tax credit of up to $500 for workers, and $1,000 for working families. This will cut taxes for 150 million Americans. It will help you deal with rising costs, and give our economy a boost by easing the burden on Main Street.

We have a difference on health care. John McCain wants to continue a George Bush approach that only takes care of the healthy and the wealthy; that allows insurance companies to discriminate and deny coverage to those Americans who need it most. This is exactly the kind of approach that has left out tens of millions of Americans. It’s why you are struggling with rising costs. And it’s why we have failed to solve our health care crisis year after year after year.

I think it’s time to finally make health care affordable and accessible for every American. We need to stand up to the insurance companies and the drug companies. We need to bring Americans together. And we need to pass a plan that lowers every family’s premiums, and gives every uninsured American the same kind of coverage that Members of Congress give themselves.

We have a difference on gas prices. John McCain has embraced a gas tax gimmick that – when it’s said and done – will save you less than thirty dollars this summer. This is a classic Washington fix that’s more about getting John McCain through an election than solving your problems. It will put more money in the pockets of the oil companies. It’s bad for our environment. And it won’t bring down gas prices over the long term – most economists think it will send those prices up.

I believe we owe the American people the truth. That’s why my plan to lower gas prices raises fuel efficiency standards on cars; invests in alternative energy to end our addiction to oil; and creates millions of new Green Jobs while saving our planet in the bargain. That’s the kind of change we need in Washington.

We have a fundamental difference on our priorities for the presidency. John McCain wants to continue George Bush’s war in Iraq, losing thousands of lives and spending tens of billions of dollars a month to fight a war that isn’t making us safer. I want to end this war. I want to invest that money in America – in our roads and bridges and ports. And I want to invest in millions of Green Jobs, so that we finally develop renewable energy, end our addiction to oil, bring those gas prices down, and save our planet in the bargain.

There will be real differences on the ballot in November. And that’s what elections should be about. John McCain will stand with Washington’s tried and failed approaches of the past; I will stand with the American people on behalf of a new direction for working people. Because I believe it’s time for America to once again be a place where you can make it if you try. I believe it’s time for Washington to work for your hopes, for your dreams. That’s the choice I’ll offer in this campaign. And that’s what I’ll do every day as President of the United States.

You can read Barack's economic plan here, and you can download a copy of the Blueprint for Change:

National Voter Registration Kickoff Tomorrow

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 13:47:13 EDT

Tomorrow is the official kickoff of Vote for Change, an unprecedented 50-state voter registration and mobilization drive. In over 100 cities across America, from Anchorage, Alaska to Miami, Florida, grassroots supporters will hit the streets to register voters. With events planned in every single state, no matter where you live, you can find an event near you.

As Democratic Governor Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas explained,"This could change the face of American politics for decades to come."

Our efforts across the country have already yielded incredible results. According to a recent Associated Press survey, over 3.5 million people registered to vote in the first three months of 2008. Now we're expanding our approach to every single state, as part of a sustained, six-month effort that could reshape the electoral map.

Most events will begin in the late morning or early afternoon, and will run approximately four hours. No prior experience is necessary, and materials and training will be provided at each location.

There is no better way to start your weekend tomorrow, and no more important work to be done right now than bringing more voters, and more voices, into the political process. Click on a state below to find an event near you:

California Superdelegate Endorses Obama; Delegate Countdown - 163 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 09 May 2008 12:32:06 EDT

Chicago, IL – Today, California DNC Member and superdelegate Ed Espinoza endorsed Barack Obama, citing his judgment, character, and ability to unite our country for change.

Espinoza is the 268th superdelegate to endorse Barack Obama. Obama is 163 delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination.

Espinoza said, “I am endorsing Barack Obama today because throughout this process I have seen him show a judgment and character that we need in our next president. From day one he opposed the Iraq war and has a plan to end the war in a responsible way and bring our sons and daughters home. He has shown he has the character to lead our great nation, from his choice to spend his career serving people in the poorest communities in Chicago to his commitment to speaking truth to the American people, even when it isn’t politically convenient to do so. To unify the country at this time in our history we need a president who has these qualities, and that is why I am proud to endorse him today. My good friend Bill Richardson, who backed Obama some weeks ago, knows what it takes to lead and I trust his judgment in this decision as well. I look forward to working with this great movement to bring victory in November.”

Americans with Disabilities for Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:57:15 EDT

We just launched a new constituency site, Americans with Disabilities for Obama. Check out the inaugural blog post from Seth H. from New Jersey...

For Americans with disabilities, "hope" is an important idea. People with disabilities face barriers every day of their lives. Some barriers are physical. Others are built on unwarranted fears and stereotypes. And there are institutional barriers at work and school and when dealing with health insurers, government, and other organizations.

When you face stubborn barriers day in and day out, hope is the only antidote to despair. Hope keeps us going. Hope is a beacon in an unwelcoming world. And hope keeps us fighting for the full integration of people with disabilities into American society.

That’s why so many Americans with disabilities support Barack Obama for President of the United States. He is the candidate of hope for Americans with disabilities and so many others.

Barack understands that we must build a world free of unnecessary barriers, stereotypes, and discrimination. Listen to him talk about it in the video posted at www.BarackObama.com/issues/disabilities. He embodies the change our country so desperately needs. And, perhaps most important, Barack wants to bring us together -- all of us -- to build a society in which each person can achieve to the limits of his or her abilities.

Barack has a Plan to Empower Americans with Disabilities. It’s available at www.BarackObama.com/issues/disabilities. He's also got a plan for Americans with Autism Spectrum Disorder that’s available at www.BarackObama.com/issues/disabilities.

Please read these materials, review the rest of this People page and, if you want to discuss the Plan or just get to know other Obama supporters from the disability community, go to http://My.BarackObama.com and join one of the many groups of people with disabilities who have organized themselves to help elect Barack Obama.

Thanks for joining the Americans with Disabilities for Obama!

AFGE President and Superdelegate John Gage Endorses Obama; Delegate Countdown - 162 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 09 May 2008 10:36:37 EDT

The AP reports that the American Federation of Government Employees and its President, John Gage, have endorsed Barack Obama. With Gage's superdelegate support, Obama now needs only 162 delegates to secure the nomination...

WASHINGTON (AP) — The American Federation of Government Employees endorsed Barack Obama Friday, giving the Illinois senator fresh momentum toward capturing the Democratic nomination for president.

"Our people, I think, recognize the enthusiasm and vitality behind Senator Obama's campaign," AFGE President John Gage said.

Gage, a previously uncommitted superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention, said he is also personally endorsing Obama...

While calling Clinton a friend and saying she has worked hard for federal employees, Gage said some members of AFGE's board also think having Obama as the Democratic nominee would help the Democratic slate as a whole. Obama will do better in "bringing along some of the downticket races," Gage said.

AFGE is the largest federal employee union, representing 600,000 workers in the federal government and the government of the District of Columbia.

Gage also said it's time for Democrats to move beyond the primary and start concentrating on the November contest against certain Republican presidential nominee John McCain. "I think it's time we start really focusing in on McCain, who just has a terrible record when it comes to federal employees," Gage said.

Click here for our detailed Results Center and do you part to build the movement by making calls to the upcoming states, signing up for a local Vote for Change event this Saturday, or making a small contribution to the campaign. This movement is yours.

Morning News

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 10:01:55 EDT

From the Washington Post:

Returning to Washington yesterday, Obama was mobbed by well-wishers as he walked onto the House floor. But behind the scenes, his campaign worked with a light touch to win over uncommitted superdelegates and allies of Clinton, mindful of not appearing overconfident and of the fact that they would need the backing of the candidate, her husband and their supporters in the fall.

... With numerous prominent Democrats believed to be waiting in the wings to endorse his candidacy, Obama appears poised to win [the majority of pledged delegates] as early as May 20, when Kentucky and Oregon vote.
... [Obama won] two new superdelegate endorsements yesterday, from Reps. Rick Larsen (Wash.) and Brad Miller (N.C.). Many other unaligned lawmakers said they are likely to remain on the sidelines for the time being, in deference to Clinton.

"Superdelegates understandably would prefer not to be seen as the deciding factor," Obama told reporters between meetings at the Capitol, brushing aside the suggestion that a mass endorsement is in the offing. "I think they respect the process, they respect Senator Clinton and myself."

... In addition to competing in the six remaining contests, Obama will mix in stops to battleground states in the coming weeks, advisers said.

... "We're not going to wake up in the morning after we become the nominee and be unprepared," said campaign manager David Plouffe.

The team is beginning two major grass-roots programs. "Vote for Change," a voter registration drive aimed at signing up millions of Democrats over the next six months, will begin tomorrow with 100 events in all 50 states. An army of "Organizing Fellows" is also being recruited -- full-time volunteers who will be deployed to swing states.

From The Hill:

When unpledged superdelegates Brad Miller (D-N.C.) and Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) became the latest members of Congress to endorse the Illinois senator on Thursday, Obama for the first time in the Democratic presidential primary race tied Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (N.Y.) in the number of public endorsements from lawmakers [Senators and members of the House of Representatives].

Ten months ago, Clinton led Obama in endorsements from legislators, 51-22. Three months ago, she was up 90-62.

Long gone are the days in which it seemed more than unlikely that a first term senator could get more pledged support among members of Congress than a former first lady whose roots reach deep into the party.

As though he knew that Thursday would be the day in which he caught Clinton in yet another statistic, Obama made a triumphant visit to the House floor earlier in the day and enjoyed a celebrity's welcome.

What makes his latest feat so impressive, apart from the fact that many of the Democrats in the House worked closely together with President Clinton in the 1990s and knew the former first lady from that time, is that it is not just the young lawmakers who have been captivated by Obama's message of hope and change.

Eight of his Senate supporters are committee chairmen. In total, Obama's 14 Senate backers have been serving in the upper chamber for more than 250 years.

In all, Obama and Clinton now have the public support of 99 lawmakers and it is likely that Obama will hit the century mark first.

From the Bowling Green Daily News:

With two weeks remaining until the state primary election, local supporters of Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign got a boost Tuesday thanks to a visit from one of the Illinois Democrat's more prominent backers.

Former Mississippi Gov. Ray Mabus spoke to about 20 supporters and campaign volunteers at the Obama campaign's Bowling Green office, motivating them to make as many calls as they can to potential voters and urging them to support Obama.

"For the first time in a long time, we've got a candidate in Barack Obama who doesn't try to divide us," Mabus said.

At the time of his election in 1987, Mabus was the youngest governor in the United States.

... [Mabus] believed that Obama's performances in several primary victories makes him best qualified to take on Republican Sen. John McCain in the general election.

"States that Republicans have taken for granted are going to be back in the mix and we need a strong person at the top of the ticket," Mabus said.

Obama won the Mississippi Democratic primary with 61 percent of the vote.

From KDLT TV:

It was business as usual today for those working for [the Obama campaign].

Senator Barack Obama's campaigners spent the day talking to South Dakota voters about 'his' plans for the presidency.

Obama's SD Director, Nathan Peterson says, "We started our campaign in SD over a month ago and had a very aggressive effort to get out one on one the phone calls and canvassing efforts and get out the message of Obama's positions on reducing cost of gas, food, trying to make healthcare more affordable in SD and across the country."

Senator Obama is planning on a campaign stop in South Dakota as soon as a schedule can be worked out.

From the East Oregonian:

Presidential candidate Barack Obama's campaign in Oregon has officially opened an office in Pendleton and plans a open house 5-8 p.m. Thursday.

The office at 27 S.W. Frazer Ave. is the northeast Oregon headquarters for the Obama for America campaign. And it may be the first official presidential campaign office in Pendleton during primary season since Robert Kennedy opened one in 1968.

Although this week the office is an official part of Obama for Oregon, supporters of the Democratic senator from Illinois have worked out of the space for more than a week.

... The Obama campaign has 17 offices in Oregon, and Shapiro said there may be more to come. That just goes to show the "personal touch" this campaign is using to spread Obama's message of change, Shapiro said.

Before the Pendleton office made the list, the Obama campaign was active in the area with plenty of volunteers, something Shapiro said has been happening since the start of the presidential race.

He said Oregon volunteers organized and starting campaigning for Obama as a grassroots effort long before the candidate formally set up shop in the state.

Shapiro also said he's heard about unofficial Obama offices in other communities.

"We are all over this state," Shapiro said.

Reps. Peter DeFazio (D-OR) and Donald Payne (D-NJ) Back Obama; Delegate Countdown - 165 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Fri, 09 May 2008 08:30:27 EDT

The AP reports that two more superdelegates are throwing their support behind Senator Obama, bringing the total number of delegates Obama needs for the nomination down to 165...

WASHINGTON (AP) - The movement of Democratic superdelegates to presidential hopeful Barack Obama gained steam Friday, with endorsements expected from two more congressmen.

Obama spokesman Dan Pfeiffer said the Illinois senator plans to receive the endorsement of Rep. Peter DeFazio of Oregon an event Friday in his homestate. Oregon holds it's primary on May 20.

While polling in the Oregon has been sparse, Obama is believed to hold a significant advantage over New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. With DeFazio, he will have the endorsement of three of the state's four Democratic House members. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and David Wu earlier endorsed Obama, while Gov. Ted Kulongoski and Rep. Darlene Hooley have endorsed Clinton.

In New Jersey, Donald Payne—a black congressman who had been backing Clinton for the nomination—is switching his support to Obama, Pfeiffer confirmed.

Clinton won the New Jersey primary on Feb. 5.

"After careful consideration, I have reached the conclusion that Barack Obama can best bring about the change that our country so desperately wants and needs," Payne told The Star-Ledger in Newark, N.J. It was "one of the most difficult decisions I have made," Payne said. "I've really been mulling it over for quite a while."

Obama's endorsements from superdelegates has picked sharply since Tuesday, when he soundly defeated Clinton in North Carolina's primary and held her to a narrow victory in Indiana.

Click here for the delegate breakdown at our Results Center and if you can, please make a donation to help further build the momentum.

Open Thread

Christopher Hass — Fri, 09 May 2008 00:30:12 EDT

Remember, the Vote For Change registration drive kicks off this Saturday in all 50 states. There's still time to sign up for an event near you.

This is your Thursday Night Open Thread . . .

Barack on the Issues: Kokomo Town Hall

Christopher Hass — Thu, 08 May 2008 21:37:00 EDT

One of the advantages of this long primary has been the opportunity it's provided to speak with and listen to so many people, in large rallies and small town halls, all across America. While campaigning in Indiana last week, Barack spent over half an hour answering questions from the people of Kokomo, addressing the issues that affect all of us. Here's the video of the full question and answer session:

You can watch more videos and highlights from the campaign trail at YouTube.com/BarackObama.

Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) endorses Barack Obama; Delegate Countdown - 167 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:41:12 EDT

The AP reports that Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) has endorsed Barack Obama for President. Senator Obama now needs just 167 delegates to secure the nomination...

WASHINGTON -- Rep. Rick Larsen said Thursday that he is endorsing Barack Obama for president.
Larsen, a four-term Democrat who represents Everett, Bellingham and other areas north of Seattle, said Obama was "the best candidate to turn our best hopes for a better future into reality."
Obama's performance this week in primaries in North Carolina and Indiana show "he can take a pounding and come back strong to deliver his message of hope and change. He is tough as nails," Larsen said.
Larsen joins at least four other Washington "superdelegates" who have endorsed the Illinois senator: Gov. Chris Gregoire; Reps. Adam Smith and Brian Baird, his state chairman; and Pat Notter, a member of the Democratic National Committee.

Let's keep building the momentum... Sign up to participate in our 50-state voter registration drive on Saturday, and if you can, make a donation to help grow the movement!

Obama on the Israel's 60th Independence Day

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 17:05:15 EDT

Obama discusses what Israel means to him on the Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer...

Here's Obama's statement on Israel's 60th Independence Day...

This week marks the 60th anniversary of the fulfillment of a dream -- the independence of the State of Israel. Throughout many centuries, Jews held fast to the hope of returning as free people to the land of their ancestors. Blessed with visionary leaders like Theodore Herzl and David Ben-Gurion, in the 20th century they began to take the practical steps necessary to build a modern state. Against all odds, and overcoming obstacles from international indifference, to hostile opposition in the region, to the murderous crimes of the Nazis, the leaders of the Zionist movement declared the establishment of the State of Israel in May 1948. In their moment of triumph, they were immediately plunged into a war for their new nation's very survival. Because of the courage and commitment of its people, Israel did survive. While threats to its existence have endured, Israelis have built their nation into a strong, vibrant democracy, with a prosperous economy, a rich cultural life, and a deep friendship with the United States that benefits both our peoples in so many ways. Even in hard times, Israelis have so much to be proud of. As the Jewish State continues to grow and prosper, the United States will always stand with Israel to ensure it can defend itself against threat of terrorism and violence, from as close as Gaza and as far as Tehran. We must never waver in our unshakeable commitment help Israel achieve its goal of true security through lasting peace with its neighbors.
On this happy occasion, I send congratulations and warm wishes to President Peres, Prime Minister Olmert, and the Israeli people, and I join with Jews and friends of Israel everywhere in celebrating Israel's 60th Independence Day.

Congressman Brad Miller (D-NC) endorses Barack Obama; Delegate Countdown - 168 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:18:23 EDT

Chicago, IL – Today, United States Congressman Brad Miller (D-NC) endorsed Barack Obama, citing his commitment to fighting for policies that honor America’s working families and his leadership taking on the subprime mortgage crisis.

Miller is a superdelegate from North Carolina. His endorsement brings the total number of superdelegates to endorse Obama to 263. Senator Obama is 168 delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination.

Congressman Miller said, “Senator Obama understands that he has the chance not just to win the election this year, but to be a great president. Americans know that Republican policies have failed because their ideas are wrong. Americans know that our government has not acted, to use Franklin Roosevelt’s words, as trustees for the whole people, but have taken the side of powerful economic interests on every issue. Americans want a fundamental change in course. Senator Obama has seized that opportunity.

“If Senator Obama and Democratic candidates up and down the ticket win this year and then deliver next year, we can build a consensus that will last a generation.

“I look forward to serving on a unified Democratic ticket with Senator Obama. He has shown great vision, strength and resilience during a very tough campaign against a worthy opponent.”

Senator Obama said, “We are grateful today for Congressman Brad Miller’s support. In this time of economic turmoil, Congressman Miller has shown real leadership in fighting to crack down on predatory lenders and provide relief for struggling homeowners. Our campaign was fortunate to have record numbers of voters turn out to support our movement for change this week in North Carolina, and I’m proud to have Congressman Miller’s support as we continue this fight to bring about real change for families across the country.”

Students for Barack Obama Call on Superdelegates Who Represent the Youth Vote to Commit to Supporting Barack Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:55:41 EDT

WASHINGTON, DC -- After Barack Obama's big victory in North Carolina and close finish in Indiana left no doubt that he is on the path to securing the Democratic nomination, Students for Barack Obama today called on the superdelegates who represent young voters to certify the youth vote by publically committing to support Obama at the convention.

"Barack Obama has inspired students and young voters across the country to mobilize in historic numbers behind his candidacy," said Meredith Segal, National Director of Students for Barack Obama. "Barack has won the most contests, the most pledged delegates, and the most votes – his path to the nomination is clear, and his victory is imminent. He is the candidate who has empowered our generation and the one who embodies our ideals. It is time for the leaders of the College Democrats of America and the Young Democrats of America who are superdelegates to certify the will of young voters across the country by uniting behind Barack Obama. David Hardt, Crystal Strait, Awais Khaleel, and Lauren Wolfe should publically commit this week to voting for Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention in Denver."

In contests where demographic data are available, Obama has won an average of 62% of the youth vote compared to Clinton's 34%. He won the youth vote in every contest except for Arkansas and Massachusetts, where he lost by 1%. In this week's contests, Obama won the youth vote in North Carolina by 49% and in Indiana by 22%.

Barack on iTunes

Kate Albright-Hanna — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:02:37 EDT

If you've visited our YouTube page recently, you might have noticed that we just passed 1,000 videos there -- thanks to our tireless video road crew that puts up clips after all of Barack's events.

We're also going to start putting Barack's greatest hits and most significant policy speeches on iTunes so you can download the video or audio-only podcasts -- and listen to Barack when you're away from your computer.

Check it out...

Vote for Change: Sign Up To Participate on Saturday

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:37:19 EDT

This Saturday, Americans from all across the country will participate in our national voter registration drive, Vote for Change. With more than 100 events in all fifty states, you can find an event near you and start creating change from the bottom up. After a brief training, we’ll hit the streets to register voters.

Like the Organizing Fellows program, this is a chance to live out the ideals and practices of our candidate, who passed up Wall Street to register voters after graduating from Harvard Law School. Watch this video to learn about how Obama led a voter registration drive in the early 90's that changed Illinois...

Saturday's events are the beginning of a six-month voter registration drive that could reshape the electoral map. If more Americans get involved, get registered and show up to vote, we're not just going to win an election, we're going to change the country.

Click on a state below to find an event near you:

Obama Organizing Fellows: One Week Left to Apply!

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:30:26 EDT

If you're looking for an incredible summer experience and an opportunity to change this country, you should apply for the Obama Organizing Fellowship today...

This is a chance to be on the frontlines of this campaign, organizing in states across the country, reaching voters on a grassroots level, and taking Obama's message of change to the American people... In other words, the chance to be a part of history.

And it's a chance to live out Obama's message of organizing from the bottom up. This is what Obama's been doing his whole life -- working with ordinary people to achieve extraordinary things...

There is only one week left to apply for this opportunity. Please send in applications by Thursday, May 15th at midnight eastern time.

Morning News

Christopher Hass — Thu, 08 May 2008 09:59:01 EDT

From the Associated Press:

Barack Obama's march toward the Democratic presidential nomination picked up support from four more superdelegates Wednesday, pushing him ever closer to victory ...

... Though Obama padded his delegate lead in Tuesday's primaries, most uncommitted superdelegates still want to remain on the sidelines. The Associated Press interviewed more than 70 undeclared superdelegates or their representatives Wednesday, and many said they don't want to get involved until the voting ends June 3.

... Virginia state House member Jennifer McClellan is one of at least nine superdelegates who have switched from Clinton to Obama since the Super Tuesday primaries on Feb. 5. There have been no public switches in the other direction.

"I think the time has come to support Senator Obama as the likely nominee," McClellan said in a conference call with reporters. "Given what happened last night, it's very unlikely we will have a different result, and it is time to come together as a party and prepare for victory against John McCain in November."

Obama also got the support of North Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Jerry Meek, North Carolina Democratic National Committee member Jeanette Council and California DNC member Inola Henry.

... "I think that Senator Obama is going to be a tremendous boost for down-ballot races in North Carolina," Meek told the AP. "He's going to turn out segments of the electorate - particularly young people and African-Americans - who have historically low turnout levels. That will help candidates up and down the ballot."

From the Rapid City Journal:

Superdelegate Kalyn Free, one of the most influential women in Native American politics, announced on Monday her support for Illinois Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign.

Her endorsement brings solid consensus in support of Obama among all Native superdelegates to the Democratic National Convention this August in Denver.

"I'm seeing a rebirth and reawakening in this country to political activism," Free, a DNC at-large member, said Monday. "We're seeing something in this country we haven't seen since the late '60s. We're seeing record numbers of people getting involved. The catalyst for all this, the common denominator, is Sen. Barack Obama. He has lit a fire in many hearts across the country."

The Choctaw woman from Oklahoma said she embraces Obama's commitment to bring Native people into the national political discussion, including a pledge to invite tribes to an annual White House summit and to include Natives in his administration.

Free is one of only three Natives nationwide who have risen to the top voting ranks as a superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention.

From the Lexington Herald-Leader:

"Kentucky matters a lot and we're excited to be here," said Betsy Myers [chief operating officer of Obama's campaign], who left her post as head of the Center for Public Leadership at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University in January to join the campaign. "Barack will be here a lot."

... She said the benefit to Obama of an extended primary is that he can personally deliver his message of change to Kentucky voters, which will help him gain in the polls and lay the groundwork for the fall general election.

"As they know us, they come our way," she said of voters.

... Myers told the Democratic women Wednesday that Obama has repeatedly backed up his calls for change with actions, such as announcing energy conservation policies in front of automakers in Detroit and describing a proposed federal gas tax holiday as a "political gimmick."

"It's refreshing, isn't it, that someone isn't going to test the polls every five minutes?" Myers asked rhetorically.

... Both campaigns have opened more than a dozen local offices in Kentucky.

From KATU TV:

Now that the Indiana and North Carolina primaries are out of the way, the race for the Democratic presidential nomination moves to Oregon.

The Clinton and Obama campaigns tell KATU News it is time to kick things up a notch ahead of the May 20 primary.

The Obama side touts its grassroots campaign, which continues to grow.

"We've registered more than 30,000 Democrats in Oregon. That's going to change the makeup of the political landscape here," said Shapiro.

... The Obama campaign claims it has 35,000 people signed up to help.

... The Obama campaign announced they have received new support from over half of the Democrats in the Oregon Legislature.

From the Bluefield Daily Telegraph:

It's a new day in politics for West Virginia — and an exciting one at that. Not since John F. Kennedy campaigned for president in 1960 have Mountain State voters actually had a hand in selecting a presidential candidate.

... Roadside signs and campaign activists supporting Obama are flourishing across the southern counties — side-by-side with literature and promoters of the Clinton camp.

... When you think about it, it's a great day to be an American.

No matter your preference of candidate for the Democratic nomination, the Clinton-Obama battle is proof that people — even the "little people" — still have a voice in government.

Rich, poor, rural or cosmopolitan, each and every vote is crucial in this election. And that's the way our forefathers envisioned the political structure of this country when they designed our blueprint for government while penning the Declaration of Independence and, later, the Constitution more than 200 years ago.

... The Clinton-Obama battle has once again generated excitement, passion and enthusiasm in our election process — and not just among political aficionados.

Average Joes — and Josephines — are inspired by this race, and the possibility their vote will make a difference.

Breaking from ABC: Edwards' Campaign Manager David Bonior to Endorse Obama

Sam Graham-Felsen — Thu, 08 May 2008 09:58:21 EDT

Breaking from ABC...

ABC News has learned that David Bonior, the campaign manager for the 2008 presidential race of Sen. John Edwards, D-NC, will endorse Sen. Barack Obama, D-Illinois, today.
Bonior, a former Michigan congressman, was once the second highest ranking Democrat in the House, and is influential with labor unions.
Tuesday night's results were said to be key to Bonior's decision -- specifically the fact that Obama's lead over Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-NY, appears insurmountable.
Bonior is also said to like Obama's general positive tone, as well as Obama's message of change and stance against taking money from federal lobbyists.

Stay tuned for an update on this endorsement! And if you can, make a small donation to grow this movement and help secure the nomination for Barack...

Open Thread

Christopher Hass — Thu, 08 May 2008 00:26:41 EDT

They're talking about you:

So midway through the returns last night, I went hunting for news from the world live web. I focused on the comment streams on Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama's official blogs, thinking that they might be a useful mirror into the hearts and minds of each candidate's most die-hard supporters. And indeed, in a rough and dirty way, that's what I found.
... The best Obama blog comment I spotted was this one: "This Chardonnay sipping, latte loving NPR addict is having a six-pack tonight : )"
... My rough estimate on the intensity of the conversation was that Clinton's blog got a new comment once every 60 or 70 seconds, while Obama's commenters popped in about once every 20 seconds.
I know these soundings are subjective. But I think they're as interesting as news stories where reporters talk to a few people in a coffee shop about their reactions to the race. Actually, I think they're more informative, because blog commenters on a campaign website tend to be passionate supporters of a candidate. Right now, the Obama campaign site has logged more than 7200 comments on about a half dozen blog posts since about midnight last night.

This is your late night Open Thread. Make them proud . . .

National Voter Registration Day: This Saturday

Christopher Hass — Wed, 07 May 2008 21:07:57 EDT

This Saturday, we're launching Vote for Change, an unprecedented 50-state voter registration and mobilization drive. In one day more than 100 events will be held across the country, with at least one event in every single state. No matter where you live, you can find an event near you. After a brief training, we’ll hit the streets to register voters.

The events this Saturday will kick-off of a six-month voter registration drive that could reshape the electoral map. If more Americans get involved, get registered and show up to vote, we can change Washington this November.

Recent voter registration drives have registered more than 200,000 new Democrats in Pennsylvania, more than 165,000 new Democrats in North Carolina, and more than 150,000 new Democrats in Indiana. Those numbers just scratch the surface of what's possible.

With this election, we have the chance to ensure that more voters than ever take an active stake in our country’s future.

Click on a state below to find an event near you:

Barack the Vote in Billings

Christopher Hass — Wed, 07 May 2008 20:05:28 EDT

Over the past fifteen months, we've seen this grassroots movement take hold in every part of the country. With just six contests remaining, national attention will soon be on places like Billings, Montana.

After working in Iowa, Colorado, Ohio and Pennsylvania, Caitlin Harvey is now on the ground in Montana. This past weekend, she was on hand for a voter registration drive in Billings:

On Sunday, Obama volunteers held a "Barack the Vote" concert with six different bands at Pioneer Park in Billings in order to encourage Montanans to register to vote and get involved in the campaign. Volunteers registered 77 people to vote, and 114 people signed up to volunteer!

Check out this slideshow of pictures from the event!

One-Stop Early Voting begins today in Montana, and any eligible voter can vote early at their local election office -- even if you are not currently registered to vote. Early Voting continues through Primary Day, June 3rd.

Visit your local election office Monday through Friday (most offices are open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) to complete a registration form and ballot. Don't wait -- find your One-Stop Early Voting location and vote today!

Help us continue to grow this movement in Montana and across the country.

Message from David Plouffe: In Sight

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 07 May 2008 17:10:40 EDT

Campaign manager David Plouffe just sent out this email...

Friend --

News broke this morning that Senator Clinton made three separate loans to her campaign in the past 30 days -- including one as recently as Monday.

These loans total more than $6.4 million, which combined with her previous personal loans, add up to at least $11.4 million she's loaned her campaign since February.

A spokesman said she may continue to "loan the campaign additional money out of her jointly-held assets" -- which include more than $100 million in income since her husband left the White House.

Meanwhile, by winning a double-digit victory in North Carolina and closing the gap in Indiana, Barack won another 100 delegates.

Barack Obama is now just 169 delegates away from winning the Democratic nomination. It's within sight.

This is a decisive moment in this race.

Barack has already won more votes, more delegates, and more than twice as many states as Senator Clinton, whose path to the nomination has grown extremely narrow. But these loans show that her campaign will continue to contest the remaining primaries vigorously.

We need to show that the voices of more than 1.5 million ordinary people donating whatever they can afford are more powerful than one person giving more than $11 million to their own campaign.

Now is the time add your voice to our historic movement. Make a donation of $25 to match Senator Clinton's loan:

https://donate.barackobama.com/results

Here's the math of where we stand ...

There are only six contests remaining on the Democratic primary calendar and only 217 pledged delegates left to be awarded. Only 7% of the pledged delegates remain on the table. There are 253 remaining undeclared superdelegates, for a total of 470 delegates left to be awarded.

With North Carolina and Indiana complete, Barack Obama only needs 169 total delegates to capture the Democratic nomination. This is only 36% of the total remaining delegates.

Conversely, Senator Clinton needs 326 delegates to reach the Democratic nomination, which represents a startling 69% of the remaining delegates.

With the Clinton path to the nomination getting even narrower, we expect new and wildly creative scenarios to emerge in the coming days.

While those scenarios may be entertaining, they are not legitimate and will not be considered legitimate by this campaign or its millions of supporters, volunteers, and donors.

You can help make sure Barack Obama is the nominee. Please make a donation of $25 now:

https://donate.barackobama.com/results

We want to be clear -- we believe that the winner of a majority of pledged delegates will be and should be the nominee of our party.

And we estimate that after the Oregon and Kentucky primaries on May 20th, we will have won a majority of the overall pledged delegates.

Evidently, the Clinton campaign agrees. According to a recent news report, by even their most optimistic estimates the Clinton campaign expects to trail by more than 100 pledged delegates and will then ask the superdelegates to overturn the will of the voters.

But we have our own case to make: that millions of Americans volunteering their time and donating in small amounts have built a campaign that has won the most delegates, the most states, and the most votes.

And this campaign -- your campaign -- will be the one that wins the presidency in November and delivers a wave of support for Democrats at every level of office.

Now is the time to step up and make it happen by owning a piece of this campaign. Make a donation of $25 today:

https://donate.barackobama.com/results

We'll be in touch as the situation evolves.

Thank you,

David

David Plouffe

Campaign Manager

Obama for America

AP: Virginia Superdelegate for Obama; Delegate Countdown - 169 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:32:27 EDT

The AP reports that Virginia Superdelegate Jennifer McClellan has switched her support to Barack Obama...

Senator Obama now needs only 169 delegates to secure the nomination.

Please give what you can and help us build on this momentum. We've got a long road ahead to the White House -- let's make it happen...

Canvassing with Eve in Portland

Christopher Hass — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:12:19 EDT

In the wake of last night's big primaries, the attention now turns to the six remaining contests: West Virginia, Kentucky, Oregon, Puerto Rico, South Dakota and Montana. Outside of the national spotlight, our grassroots supporters have been active in each of these areas for some time now, quietly doing the hard work necessary for the kind successes we saw last night.

After covering Iowa, California, Texas, and Pennsylvania, Greg Hauenstein is on the ground in Oregon now. Last weekend, Greg caught up with one of our grassroots organizers in Portland:

They're the folks who make shoe leather stocks rise every four years. Knuckles tender from knocking and voices raspy from the repeated pitch, they are the true leaders of this campaign. They are our Oregon Community Organizers.

Their mission is to build a team of their neighbors to maximize the vote for Senator Obama in their community. It is only with the dedication and perseverance of our volunteer leaders that this campaign has the strength it has. Now that ballots are beginning to arrive in the mail, it is more important than ever that we speak to people where they are and tell them why we believe Senator Obama is the best candidate to bring real change to Washington.

Eve is one of our Oregon Community Organizers in Portland. As often as they can, her and her family hit the streets and bring new supporters into the fold. We followed Eve around yesterday as she made her rounds.

If you live in Oregon, you can sign up now to work with organizers like Eve to help Get Out The Vote, or you can become an organizer in your own community.

Oregon's primary in conducted entirely by mail-in ballot. Most voters in Oregon have already received their ballots and are right now in the process of deciding how to cast their vote. No matter where you are, you can help continue our momentum by calling voters in Oregon and encouraging them to cast their ballot for Barack.

Three Superdelegates Endorse Obama; Delegate Countdown - 170 To Go

Sam Graham-Felsen — Wed, 07 May 2008 14:51:26 EDT

Chicago, IL – The day after Barack Obama’s commanding victory in North Carolina and tight finish in Indiana, three superdelegates today endorsed Barack Obama.

The three previously uncommitted superdelegates endorsing Obama are North Carolina Democratic Party Chairman Jerry Meek, North Carolina DNC member Jeanette Council, and California DNC member Inola Henry.

These endorsements brings the total number of superdelegates to endorse Obama to 261. Senator Obama is 170 delegates away from securing the Democratic nomination.

Chairman Meek said, “Over the past year, I’ve watched as Barack Obama has drawn countless new people to the political process. Although my position as State Chair has led me to remain neutral through the primary, I’ve quietly celebrated as Barack Obama offered new hope to millions of Americans who have lost faith in the American dream after years of disastrous Republican policies. Rarely does a public servant emerge with Barack Obama’s ability to unite our country and produce real change. With Barack Obama as our nominee, North Carolina can deliver its electoral votes to a Democrat and Democratic candidates up and down the ballot will benefit. Barack Obama offers the best chance to take back the White House, elect countless democrats down-ballot, and breathe new life into the Democratic Party.”

Jeanette Council said, “I am pleased today to be endorsing Barack Obama as he continues to unite Americans for change. This election is a unique opportunity for all Americans and Barack Obama’s campaign has inspired and changed the entire face of our country. His campaign has mobilized new people and welcomed people of all ages, races, backgrounds, attracted everyone from first time voters to voters who have participated their entire adult lives. The way he has built a campaign that reflects his message of hope and change and brought all different communities to the table is unlike any campaign I have ever seen.”

Council added, “I am first and foremost a Democrat and the Democratic Party is truly the party of the people, the party of inclusion that wants to engage all people in the political process. This is what Barack Obama has done. Seeing this happen, especially here in North Carolina, has changed me forever and given me hope that we can change this country. I put much thought, consideration and most importantly prayer into this decision, and today I know I am backing a candidate who can put our country on the right path. I’m proud to endorse him today.”

Let's keep building the momentum. It's up to us to make sure this movement continues to grow...

An open letter to uncommitted College Dem superdelegates

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 07 May 2008 13:25:09 EDT

Jason Rae attracted a lot of attention this campaign season. At 21 years old, Rae is the youngest superdelegate eligible to cast a vote at the Democratic National Convention in August, and in February he declared his support for Senator Obama. Right now, Students for Barack Obama is trying to organize students to lobby uncommitted superdelegates who happen to be College Democrats. I asked Jason to write an open letter to Lauren Wolfe and Awais Khaleel to let them know why they should join him in supporting this campaign for change.

Awais and Lauren—

I wanted to take a minute as both your friend and a fellow super delegate and encourage you to endorse Senator Barack Obama. I know that you have been hesitant because of your role within the College Democrats of America, but as you well know, Senator Obama has emerged to speak to and speak for our generation. He is the voice of this generation.

I appreciate and respect the efforts you have made to make sure you are representing the millions of college students involved in the Democratic Party through your YouTube video. However, I think you need to make your choice known now. I firmly agree with DNC Chairman Howard Dean that it all of the remaining superdelegates need to make their candidate preference known. We need to come together as a party and go forward to November united behind a candidate. We need to stop fighting with each other and take the fight to the Republicans. We need to fight for health care for all Americans. We need to fight for an improved K-12 education system. We need to fight to make college affordable for all who want to pursue a degree. We need to fight to give a voice to the voiceless and hope to the hopeless.

This letter would not be complete if I did not encourage you to support Senator Obama. After being lobbied heavily by both campaigns because of my role as the youngest superdelegate, I endorsed the Senator in February. I encourage you to do the same. He has done more to draw new voters into the process than I have seen of any candidate. I believe he can keep them engaged through November and through his eight years in office. He has truly brought out a new generation of loyal and dedicated activists. Youth turnout in the Democratic primary has doubled or even tripled in most primary and caucus states. Not only that, but young people are overwhelmingly supporting him. In Wisconsin alone, Senator Obama received 73% of the votes of 18-to-24 year old. This is similar in states all across the country. Our generation is speaking clearly and loudly in support of Senator Obama.

I sincerely hope you will consider endorsing Senator Obama and doing it soon. If we unite behind a banner of hope and change, we can take back the White House and resume our position as the leaders of the free world. We can mend damaged relationships abroad and return our focus to those who need our help here at home. It's time to stand up.
Sincerely,
Jason Rae

You too can contact Lauren Wolfe and Awais Khaleel to let them know why they should endorse Barack Obama.

We came out to vote yesterday

Marc R. Peters — Wed, 07 May 2008 11:10:00 EDT

By Jason Zimmerman, University of Florida Law

62% of the youth vote in Indiana. 74% of the youth vote in North Carolina. Chris Cillizza at the Post cited young people as winners in last night’s primaries. In Indiana, there was an increase in the youth vote by more than 30,000 over the 2004 presidential campaign. This primary, an event that typically has a significantly lower turn out than the November general election, showed that all of you decided to roll up your sleeves, and work hard for a candidate that plans on working hard for you.

I don't think it's simply Obama's eloquence, or his ability to inspire is what is drawing these amazing amounts of new and young voters to the Democratic process. Rather, I think its Obama's willingness to talk about the problems affecting our generation, and his willingness to listen to us and speak to our issues.

Take for instance the growing student loan issue. Just today, an article on Mobilize.org, a site geared towards informing young voters about issues affecting them, wrote up a brief on the impeding student loan crisis. This is a real issue that would affect the young voters who are coming out in droves for the Obama campaign. The brief, entitled “We’re Broke, Let’s Fix It: The Student Loan Crisis and Its Impact on the Millennial Generation”, gives an insight on a crisis that we as a generation have to deal with. Cost of higher education is going up, while amount of long-term government assistance is going down. Interest rates are going up, so the loans that we need are getting harder for us to pay back.

Obama has a plan to fix this; a plan that has thousands upon thousands of college students working hard to ensure that plan is brought to life. Increasing the amount of Pell Grants, while streamlining the financial aid process by eliminating the over-complicated FAFSA are just some of the fixes Obama has in store. However, the centerpiece is the American Opportunity Tax Credit. This credit will write-off the first 4,000 dollars of your college education. To earn this credit, all you have to do is participate in 100 hours of community service. All you have to do is roll up your sleeves, and give back to the community that is helping you get a higher education. College is being made more affordable to all groups of people, while strengthening community bonds and relationships.

This idea directly helps the millions of youth in our generation who are struggling to get to college. This idea is one of the many Barack Obama has that will directly help the people of America. This idea is just one of the reasons why new and young voters are overwhelming the expectation game with their involvement.

For a full report on the youth vote in the primaries yesterday visit CIRCLE.

Morning News

Christopher Hass — Wed, 07 May 2008 09:54:49 EDT

From the Washington Post:

Sen. Barack Obama scored a landslide victory in North Carolina's Democratic presidential primary yesterday, moving him ever closer to locking up an insurmountable lead among pledged delegates, while Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton posted a razor-thin win in the hotly contested Indiana primary ...

... The twin results solidified the status quo in the Democratic race, one that now gives Obama the clear advantage in the battle for the nomination because of his solid lead in the tally of pledged delegates. Despite her Indiana victory, Clinton emerged even more the underdog in the nomination battle.

The results meant the senator from Illinois would to add both to his pledged-delegate margin and his lead in the popular vote, leaving Clinton with an even more daunting challenge in trying to deny Obama the nomination.

... Obama won North Carolina by 56 percent to 42 percent, and his popular-vote margin there -- about 230,000 votes -- wiped out the gains Clinton had made with her decisive victory in Pennsylvania two weeks ago. In Indiana, Clinton won by 51 percent to 49 percent.

Obama, declaring that he is now fewer than 200 delegates away from locking up the nomination, used his victory speech in Raleigh to begin to try to heal the divisions in the party that have resulted from the long and difficult campaign and to sound the themes of a general-election race against Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee.

"This fall, we intend to march forward as one Democratic Party, united by a common vision for this country," he said. "Because we all agree that at this defining moment in history -- a moment when we're facing two wars, an economy in turmoil, a planet in peril, a dream that feels like it's slipping away for too many Americans -- we can't afford to give John McCain the chance to serve out George Bush's third term. We need change in America."

From the New York Times:

The results from the two primaries, the largest remaining Democratic ones, assured that Mr. Obama would widen his lead in pledged delegates over Mrs. Clinton, providing him with new ammunition as he seeks to persuade Democratic leaders to coalesce around his campaign. He also increased his lead in the popular vote in winning North Carolina by more than 200,000 votes.

"Don't ever forget that we have a choice in this country," Mr. Obama said in an address in Raleigh, N.C., that carried the unity themes of a convention speech. "We can choose not to be divided; that we can choose not to be afraid; that we can still choose this moment to finally come together and solve the problems we've talked about all those other years in all those other elections."

... Senator Ben Nelson of Nebraska, an Obama supporter, said the candidate accomplished what he needed to by outperforming expectations in both states.

From the Associated Press:

Sen. Barack Obama won the most delegates in Tuesday's primaries, moving within 200 delegates of securing the Democratic nomination for president.

Obama won at least 94 delegates in the North Carolina and Indiana primaries, according to an analysis of election returns by The Associated Press. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton won at least 75 delegates, with 18 still to be awarded.

Sixteen of the outstanding delegates were from North Carolina and two were from Indiana.

In the overall race for the nomination, Obama led with 1,840.5 delegates, including separately chosen party and elected officials known as superdelegates. Clinton had 1,684.

Obama was 184.5 delegates shy of the 2,025 needed to secure the Democratic nomination.

There are 217 delegates at stake in the final six contests. Also, about 270 superdelegates are yet to be claimed.

From the Wall Street Journal:

Barack Obama's quest to clinch the Democratic presidential nomination got a lift with a big win in North Carolina and a strong run in Indiana, where he did significantly better than expected against the favored Hillary Clinton.

... Tuesday's results will influence the ongoing and ultimately decisive "invisible primary" for the support of superdelegates -- the governors, members of Congress and party officers who can vote for any candidate at Democrats' late-August convention. Sen. Obama has cut Sen. Clinton's early big lead to about 15 superdelegates -- he has an estimated 255 to her 270

... He leads in pledged delegates won in the previous 45 primaries and caucuses, and likely will reach a majority of pledged delegates with the Oregon and Kentucky primaries.