Ask Howard Dean
J. Scott Aapplewhite / AP
The Vermont physician-turned-politician knows firsthand the fickle and sometimes unforgiving nature of a Presidential election: his promising 2004 bid flamed out following his infamous primal yell, delivered a few days after a 3rd-place finish in the Iowa Democratic caucuses. One of the first politicians to harness the fundraising power of the Internet, Dean launched what became known as the "$100 revolution," a grassroots strategy of raising money to compete with the financial muscle of corporate donors. As chairman of the Democratic National Committee, Howard Dean is at the center of the showdown between Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Use the form below to submit your questions for Howard Dean, then look for the upcoming interview in TIME Magazine.
Which do you prefer for the general election: public or private financing? Why?
If neither Senator Obama nor Senator Clinton can get the magic number of 2,024 delegates by the time Convention come around (almost a certainty), why would it be wrong for the Super-Delegates to decide for the Party, who the Nominee will be? Aren't they supposed to? It was the reasoning behind the creation of the Super-Delegates, is it not? Why should they be afraid of being seen as tipping the scales one way or the other?
How are you and the DNC going to straigten out the tangle y'all have created with the Michigan/Florida/superdelegate messes unless you get Hillary and Obama to put the other candidate on the ticket?
When Bill Gates grew big and fast, the anti-trust forces were on the scene quickly. Where have the same overseers been while petroleum companies suck the blue collar man dry? Gas isn't considered a luxury when it's required to get you to the 7-5.
Hillary is still on the race to destroy the party. How is this woman, Hillary, misleading the country, lie after lie abusing the the voters.
Such a shame that Hillary is destroying the party, and it has been.
Sick & tired of her lie, bamboozled the voters.
VOTE ANYONE BUT NOT HILLARY.
Obama voters are so enraged by her lying, misleading the nation, bamboozled voters, we will vote for McCain if Hillary is not drop out.
VOTE ANYONE BUT NOT HILLARY
Why have they not counted MI and FL votes? I know there are a lot of people angry. Also you better check Mr. Obama's tatics he is running the negative campaign. Then when Hillary fires back she gets the blame. Like they ask a hypothetical question and the news runs like the war yesterday. They didn't ask Obama the same question. What the hell is this any way??? One mad voter. I will vote for Mc Cain if he wins and so will a lot of other DEMOCRATS, put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Why does the Democratic party have superdelegates? How would you define their purpose?
Is Hillary really trying to ensure Obama loses in November so she can run again in 2012? What a horrible thought...what is wrong with her? Superdelegates are paying attention to this, I hope
The Democrats are doing so very well in midterm congressional elections, winning Haster's old seat, and now quite improbably poised to grab a very conservative district in Mississippi and another in Louisiana. The willingness among many to change parties is obviously there. Give that Clinton has virtually self destructed by destroying Obama, is it time for a safety candidate like Al Gore, vetted and agreeable, to assure that we take this election that is ours to lose after the profound and misguided failures of Bush?
If you want the superdelegates to start deciding, why not lead by example and throw your hat over the wall and endorse one of the candidates?
Chairman Dean,
It seems media outlets merely stress on how a prolonged nomination process is destructive to the Democrats chances in 2008. However, does not this lengthy process also allow you to build a "Blue-base" in each state - exactly what you wanted to do in your 50 State Plan when you became Chairman.
Dr. Dean,
Why would you choose to alienate voters in Florida in Michigan, two crucial swing states, on the eve of a presidential election? Do you simply not want the Democrats to win?
I would like to know why Howard Dean refused seating to Michigan and Florida delegates at the Democratic Convention this year. Actually, I do know why, but this should not have happened. It just isn't democratic to leave the voters in these states without their voting rights. It makes our Party look absolutely non-caring and oblivious to the rights of the people.
What will Howard Dean do to rectify the situation he has caused by not handling it properly at the beginning -- something must be done -- and soon.
Why on earth won't you do something re: Florida and Michigan????
Leaving many millions of democrats out of the process, and especially leaving Hillary out since she got the most votes (when all names were on the ballet in Florida) and got a very large number of votes in Michigan when there was no reason for any other democrats to go down and vote.
Do something quick before we lose in November due to ?
Mr. Dean, do you hope that one of the democratic candidates follows your famous speech from the last election (where you named off states followed by the "YEHAAAW!") to destroy their chances of winning and thus ending the primary without super delegate intervention?
Mr. Dean, are you still a practicing physician that can write prescriptions? Because whomever loses this primary will need you to write mass amounts of prescription valium to calm them down.
In your unsuccessful bid for president people you thrived and failed as a perceived outsider. Has your position as DNC Chairman provided you with a network of insider political support from which you can launch a second campaign for president?
In your unsuccessful bid for president you thrived and failed as a perceived outsider. Has your position as DNC Chairman provided you with a network of insider political support from which you can launch a second campaign for president?
Abe Lincoln was reviled by fellow Republicans seeking nomination. Felt he was unfit. Lincoln always remained steady and reserved when attacked--and the 3 rivals ended up on his cabinet. Obama needs to make ABE LINCOLN's Story His Story. FYI. Love Obama, but will support Dem candidate.
(source Team of Rivals... go to Amazon)
I want to know if anyone has thought about how the USA will look to the rest of the World if they let Hillary Clinton determine the outcome of a race that she has lost. America is respected around the World, so much so that it polices other countries' election to ensure its fairness. There is no doubt in my mind, that if this Democracy is tampered with in any suspicous way, not only will the American voters lose respect for the USA, but more so, the World will forever view and remember what America has done, and the trust will be destroyed.
One candidate argues that pledged delegates do not exist. What is your position on this concept?
Dr. Dean, how do you feel about the way this race has gone?
One of Hillary's stalwart support groups, and perhaps the one Obama seems to covet the most at the moment, is the over-55 segment of voters. To what extent do you feel this segment is in play for the general election? Commonly, though not always, older voters have taken comfort in older candidates. In this sense, both Democrats stand disadvantaged against John McCain and the perception of wisdom inherent with McCain's age.
How can Obama reach out to connect strongly with this crowd for the first time in a way that can be enhanced and sustained throughout the general election? How can Hillary maintain or enhance the support of this segment in the face of a general election?
What have you been doing to force superdelegates to heed your demand that they declare their endorsements "starting now?" Are there any consequences for those who refuse to endorse until after the primaries are complete? What ethical issues are superdelegates considering in terms of requests for candidate endorsements that precede the state or district votes of the constituencies they represent? What related ethical issues are you being sensitive to, given your role?
i dont understand why you are letting this happen to your party...you will not win anything if this race does not end. letting hilary clinton continue this destrctive campaign is hurting the party. step in and do something...she cannot win!!! why do you let it go on!!
Many people have criticized your hands-off approach. Is that fair? Is it accurate? To what extent(s)? Why?
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hello Mr. Dean, I am a 30 year old Black Male who has a Master's Degree (Demographic Information ). I am very concerned with the direction of this party. You have one candidate trying to win by destroying the entire party buy giving John McCain ammunition on both canidates. The other candidate is trying not upset white America by attacking a white woman (for the lack of a more politically correct term). This is going to kill our chances in Nov.
IDEA -- Dream Team -- Pres. Obama, Vice Pres. Clinton, Sec. of the State Gore, and Attorney General John Edwards. This would attract every section of the left and independent voters. Bill Clinton could become a Supreme Court Justice to replace one of the older members.
The real issue is not having two candidates lose the parties chances for the Presidency. It is obtaining the big prize, having the opportunity to correct the ship and guide this country back to greatness.
Race and gender should be a plus to this party not the wedge that loses the best chance for this party to control two of the three branches of this government.
Chairman Dean,
Will you please set a criteria and deadline for the Super Delegates? For example, say "For the good of the party, you must commit to a candidate by X date, otherwise your votes will be automatically pledged for the candidate with the most popular and electoral votes?" People talk about Super Delegates "rights," including waiting until the convention to pledge. I believe whatever rights they have can be rightfully subsumed within their obligations to the party.
Plan B: Please take Hillary aside and teach her to deliver a really good "Yeahhhharrgh!" Then insist that if she finishes within 25 points of Obama in NC, she must heartily belt it out. That would solve everything.
Will you please resign?
Did you ever consider running for president in 2008 yourself? Or do you have any others ambitions, political or personal?
Overall, do you believe that the Bush Adminstration has damaged the Democratic Party, as well as its own?
As a college student recently inspired and motivated by this Democratic election, I have a burning question that many Americans would like to know. Why are Michigan and Florida such hot buttons for the Hillary Clinton campaign when they are a big part of the reason that the primaries in those states happened ahead of schedule, thus forcing the delegates/popular vote not to count? Wouldn't it be unfair and unjust to cater to Clinton and her wishes on account of a poorly run campaign? It's very clear that we wouldn't be discussing the issue had Hillary planned past Super Tuesday, so why should the DNC cooperate now? It shouldn't work that way. What gives?
Will you consider changing the Democratic primary system especially after the negativity that has come about from this primary season. ?First of all I feel it should be cut back and shortened so all states have voted before the end of April. Would you agree to a shortened season?
Caucuses should only be held when other options of voting are in place so we do not discriminate against elderly . Most importantly
the candidate should be chosen from the popular vote. We should not allow candidates to influence super delegates to up turn the will of the voters. Also if a state breaks the rules under no exception can their votes be counted unless they fairly re do the election do you agree with this?
Dear Faye,
If you will vote for McCain in the general election if Barack Obama is elected the nominee, you are a shame and disgrace to the Democratic Party and we don't want you anyway.
How does it feel to be brainwashed by Hillary Clinton? Apparently it's making you delusional.
Is there any legal action citizens can take against those who are trying to sway the election by having the delegates seated from Michigan and Florida. Does this constitute election fraud to give one candidate all of the votes and the other 0 because their name was not on the ballot because they followed the rules.
Why don't you get Hillary to step down? She is ruining the democratic outlook. She needs to drop out. She is a liar and just another corrupt politician.
Barack Obama is a good candidate, and he can win in November--he brings true hope for a change for the better. Hillary is more of the same.
Think of the party. Look what the Republicans did. They're always thinking and coniving. They are sitting back just eating this up!!!
Dear Chairman Dean,
Is it possible for the Democratic Party to seat both Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton by negotiating a power sharing deal between them so that one would handle foreign policy matters and the other would handle domestic matters? I ask this question because I really don't think Senator Barack Obama is too smart about domestic issues, but he might be great at foreign policy.
It appears the hostile tone of the Clinton campaign is exposing the truth of American Racism. As a campaign volunteer I hear the fear of people who refuse to vote for Clinton's Democratic opponent for fear he'll be assassinated.
Why has the Democrat Party allowed such destructive in-fighting?
What is being done to assure the safety of a Black Presidential Candidate/Nominee?
If an opponent of Clinton has one (1) vote/delegate more than she in every category does her influence dictate the Democratic Party disenfranchise the peoples' choice?
I believe that you have no right to interfere with the voters of Michigan and Florida. This is important that the best candidate should be picked. I believe that experience should be the deciding factor and the only one I can see is Senator Hillary Clinton.
No Republican is going to be win the presidency of the US. Thanks to the destruction of our economy and the trampling of the constitition and bill of rights plus the other atrocities that the Republican party has committed, they don't stand a chance.
Senator Obama talks a good game but doesn't have any answers. Let Senator Clinton has the answers and will be a fine president in 2008.
I don't think Michigan and Florida should be seated. The party agreed on this and the people of both states knew this before hand. If they want to do anything go after their state representives that agreed to not seating them. If not else this might wake them up to pay attention to what is happening in their states. I thought Florida would learn, this again looks like they ignore things unless it doesn't go their way than they cry like spoiled brats.
If Hillary wins the presidency, should we be concerned that the two top women in the white house will be two headstrong, menapausal women who may not see eye to eye on political issues? I'm serious. Should we be concerned?
Why did the DNC make the decision to exclude Mike Gravel from the majority of the debates?
SOOOOO, THIS is change!!!!!
Hillary's dubious principles should be challenged. Her distinction for advocating nuclear response to imaginary Iranian capabilities, may very well be her approach to global warming. Suddenly everywhere up for obliteration!
Barry Goldwater LOST the election for suggesting the nuclear bombing of Vietnam to resolve that conflict.
The modern holocaust may be perpetrated by Hillary's annihilation of suspected WMD in "axis" countries of her own determination. Considering the reliability of our nuclear allies (i.e. Pakistan), she perpetuates our country's status in this world of conflict.
She apparently can harmonize with McStrangelove - "Bomb,bomb,bomb.."
Yeeeeeeehaaaaaaaaaah!!!
Dear Mr. Dean:
When the DNC decided to strip FL and MI of their delegates for moving up their primaries, why did they not adjust the number of delegates needed to win accordingly? The '2025 delegates needed to win' is based on there being 4048 delegates -- which includes FL and MI. Had the 300+ delegates there been substracted, one of the candidates might have gotten to the new (and more logical) 'winning number' without help from the supers!
Can you explain this?
Thanks!
Bisakha Sen
Which flavors of Vermont's finest ice cream best describe you, Barack Obama, and Hillary Clinton?
Why didn't you stand up against the exclusion of Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich in the debates, despite the fact that Gravel was polling as well as other second-tier candidates and that Kucinich was uninvited? Why is there no room in the Democratic Party for people who think anti-war doesn't mean the same war with a few thousand fewer troops?
Dr Dean,
In your opinion who has been the best american president, and why?
The solution posted by Bisakha Sen in Birmingham, AL makes a great deal of sense. Changing the needed number of delegates based on the new number of voters. So easy and so simple.
Is there anyone in the party who can shut down the Clintons with their brown nosing, lieing and degrading remarks. No substantive conversation will emerge if Obama has to continually defend himself again and again against their hostility.
Please, will you step in and referee this "game"?
What about a new report that claims that the Clintons and Bushes planned and ordered the death of JFK Jr. who was a threat to their White House plans of election? Much like what was done to his father.
Hi,
I would like to know from you what position you would take if, at the end of the primary season, Senator Obama ends up with more delegates (from the primaries and caucuses) but, after taking into consideration the superdelegates' choices, Senator Clinton gets more votes overall, thereby, as one might say, reversing the popular vote.
Would you be inclined to go with who won more delegates in the primaries / caucuses or polled a greater share of the popular vote or carried a greater number of states or deliberate a new approach for Florida / Michigan or stay out of it all?
Thanks,
Anirban.
What will you say if you fix it for Hillary to win this primary election
against the pressure of Obama's numbers and democrats like me cry foul by not voting in the general election or voting for McCain?
Dean,
I agree with the rules concerning Michigan and Florida. Can't please everyone, rules are made to be followed.
I don't understand why Hillary is still running, no more than to destroy the democratic party. I used to have respect for her and her husband but not anymore. I didn't realize how cruel people they are.
I would not be proud to call them (oh I forgot Hillary, Clinton isn't running or would run the White House if Hillary is elected) or Bush my president, all leaves a nasty taste in my mouth.
I strongly believe in Obama, he is a sincere candidate and I support him whole heartedly. If Obama is not elected nominee for Democrats, I refuse to vote for Hillary and will remain @ home on election day.
This has been my first time getting involed in politics. I didn't realize that being President of the United States meant so much to Hillary that she is willing to strip Obama butt nakey to win. Even then I don't think she would be happy, to me this doesn't prove that she is a fighter by using old politic tactics. It destroys her character.
Hillary I have absolutely no respect for you.
OBAMA 08!
Given the obvious enthusiasm of young voters for the Democratic Party and their crucial role in the electoral calculus for years to come, what if any steps are being taken to include young voters in the upcoming convention in Denver? As a college student myself, I would love to somehow participate but am unclear as to how. Could you for me (and the sake of thousands like me) give some ideas how young people can seriously have a more active role within the party?
Do you really think Barack Hussein Obama and Hillary Clinton are the best candidates to win back the White House in light of Hillary's inability to remember the truth and Barack's lack of ability to choose friends and Preachers who are not too much from the Loony Left.
Gov Dean
Do you see any situation whereby the delegates from Michigan and Florida are not seated? And if so, how can you justify excluding millions of voters from the process of selecting a nominee?
Mr. Chairman,
Being a lifelong Democrat ( former Vice President of College Dems. of America) I'm wondering why the powers that be can't pressure Senator Clinton to stop her campagin. You know she can't win. By her staying in the race, is tearing our party apart. We have a real chance of getting back the White House. Senator Clinton antics is going put a Republican back in power. Tell her to show a little class and step down.
As a person that believes that a rule is a rule, i think that the DNC should stick to thier guns on the issue of florida and michigan primaries. Without rules there is total chaos.I think even those who oppose Obama realise he is the best cadidate, racism will come into play in November. I would hope that the American people could rise above the petty personal attacks that have been lodged so far in this campaign. The reason people dont understand Obamas positions is because you can not relate to his personal struggles. I believe that he truly wwants a better America for us all, Please allow him the oppritunty to try.
The Democratic campaign is quickly deteriorating. As a Floridian I would like to thank that my vote counts, however I hold our State legislators responisble changing those dates in the face of known consequenses. I don't think that we should change the decision midstream, now beacuse one cadidate can benefit. Was Florida not important to Hiliary before her decision to agree to unseat the delegates. This continues to speak of Hiliary's everchanging mind. She is likened to the chameleon that changes its colors to fit in where ever. I don't know how many times she can be the "Hometown Girl", AR, NY, PA . . . She will do or say anything to get elected. That means many unethical deals behind closed doors, she will sell this country. This is the candidate that I want to represent me or set in motion things to come that my children orgeneration will not benefit from.
On the other hand, Obama has a delicate situation, he has to be able to balance between not attacking Hiliary, but actually showing this country why is she should not be the chosen leader for this country. I encourage Obama to start talking stronger about the issues and calling. Making his ads stronger and making a claim to differences. He needs to demonstrate his plans, direct people to his website. He has to step it up and end this before the party suffers too much distruction to rebound in time to rally before November's election.
Mr. Dean,
Do you think that some of the compromises/concessions made by Democratic senators and representatives for the past year and a half will be perceived as a weakness or as a strength by voters?
Why is your ego as head of the DNC more important than millions of voters in florida and michigan? Is bowing to your authority more important than even one persons vote, in my opinion NO! I have been a lifelong Democrat but your rules can go to hell along with your so called "SUPER DELEGATES", both which seem to be superseeding the WILL OF THE PEOPLE.
Do you agree with a law that would decriminalize the use of marijuana which would free up millions of dollars in tax money that goes to the enforcement and prison costs used to incarcerate the majority of our prisoners who are simply non-violant drug offenders.
Why aren't Democratic leaders condemning Hillary & Bill Clinton for pandering to American fears of terrorism and fears of black leaders with their finger on the button. Clinton's racism, and hawkish statements have obliterated her ability to differentiate herself from McCain in a general election and damaged the democratic party. I closed my eyes and listened to her being interviewed the morning after her Penn. win and I heard George Bushes excuses for going into Iraq and potentially Iran. The public get inured to this and they miss the reality that men and women in high positions just say what they think will get them elected. Hillary knows that Bush was elected a 2nd term and has seen that McCain and his war jargon appears acceptable so she is swinging her rolling pin in the kitchen (I'd run this as an Ad) and threatening to obliterate Iran - don't you think this damages her ability to run against McCain ?- afterall she voted for the Iraq war. I am an attorney, 51, white, married, liberal woman who cannot vote for her, I feel like my disillusioned 22 year old eagle scout son who I have tried to get to vote for Obama (he says "mom, the only politician I would vote for is Ron Paul he has a record I can see and he has never waivered, the rest of the men and women are more of the same - politicians who have ruined this country). I appreciate his intelligence and I am beginning to feel it is going to be another Bush term.
If we wear both our candidates down in the primary before we even get to a general election (there's growing evidence, in Obama's case, especially, this is already happening), isn't there a risk that at best, we'll whittle away the reputations and strengths of our candidates, and at worst, we'll lose the Presidency the third time in a row?
How long do Democrats, Republicans, independents and the rest of this country, frankly, have to wait before the Democratic Party flexes its muscle and shows one of the Democratic candidates that the Party speaks for the will of its members, and not for its party leaders and superdelegates?
Thanks.
DR. Dean, I have been your supporter starting with your run for the Presidency. I'm glad you remained in the good fight for Democracy. I understand the pressure you have been put on by the Clintons and their operation, but please feel assured that we the voters remain committed to fairness and will not fall for the same old tactics which I believe you are fighting against. As the "keeper" of the Democratic party why can't you and other elders sit down and bring the superdelegates to committ NOW. The Democratic party will be fragmented further if you wait until summer as Ms Clintonwill continue to disregard our principles with her tactics to taint her opposistion while self destructing. This is a circular firing squad and its obvious she does not care at all about the greater good. There has got to be a decision maker and a strategy out there which can put a stop to her now. And, also, please stick by your principles: Adults need to act like adults, Florida and Michigan is a non issue.
This is the best chance for Democratic party to win the white house,but with the imbroglio if not properly managed can also be it's worst defeat.Don't you think the elders(if there is any)should waged in and sort this out?The known fact is that nothing is going to change in terms of numbers between these candidates.Why can't the superdelegates declare their preference either way.I don't think you should wait untill the party is destroyed to irreparable state before you show leadership.I think you should provide leadership as I don't think you are. My personal opinion is that Hillary is working against the party to loose the general election so as to re-present herself in 2012 when she will still be "young".She cannot understandably afford to wait for 8 years when she will be considered "McCain"
Dear Mr. Dean, Is there something wrong with you, or is that really just how you are?
Do you think our party has screwed itself with the FLA / MI debacle? Is there any fair way to seat the delagates that will not have 1 side or the other screaming that the compromise cost them the nomination? Since they are so close, it seems whichever one loses will have a valid complaint and this will divide us further. Comments...?
As we all know... Barack Obama is more than likely going to be the democratic nominee... my question for you is.. As the chairman of the Democratic National Committee, why dont you step in, and stop the madness?? because hillary clinton on the other side is attacking Obama left and right, and thats not good when the fall election comes, because as most democrats know, Obama will be the winner, just because of the math, and because he is the better leader, Clinton over the past month, has lied, attacked, and lied some more, and i dont think the american people want a dishonestful president
In February 2003, you opposed the Iraq invasion in a speech that predicted the ensuing disaster. Why do you think early and right opponents of the invasion are ignored by the media while war proponents who have been dead wrong from the beginning are still worshipped?
Do you believe that because John McCain has such a large swatch of time to get his Presidential bid moving, that the endless sniping and back and forth between Sens. Obama and Clinton will ultimately lead to voting conflicts in the 2 halves of the Dem. party when a nominee finally emerges?
Hillary Clinton is doing her best to destroy Senator Obama as a candidate for the presidency. She has no chance of securing the nomination. If Barack Obama wins Indiana and North Carolina, as he most likely will, will you state openly to Hillary Clinton that she should leave the race?
Any one But Hilary she is distroying the party literally. Please endorse Obama and reunite the Democratic Pary
I am sickened by the recent events that have occurred in the Pennsylvania primary. I am beginning to believe that the Democratic party is holding closed door meetings to deliberately hand the white house to John MaCain in November. We have a president with the third lowest approval rating ever, an unpopular war in Iraq, gasoline prices that hit a new record almost every day, an economy in a recession headed toward depression, the lowest respect and cooperation from other countries I have ever seen, global climate change that Bush denied even existed for seven years, and the Democratic Party will be lucky to win in November. Why? Because Hilary Clinton is a spoiled, selfish brat who wants to be the bully of the playground and you let her get away with it. When are you going to step in and tell her the reality of the situation and end this "Three Stooges Act? This continuously negative Clinton campaign is actually doing McCain's work for him. If you cannot do anything to solve this fiasco, we might as well skip the election and just present McCain with the keys to the White House now. Obama is the only person I will vote for and I really don't want to sit out the November election but, I will if Clinton lies her way to the nomination. DO SOMETHING NOW!
why don't you tell the democrats that the michigan primary vote was in compliance with the michigan supreme court ruling to proceed. obama had the same rules as the rest of the candidates, undecided was just that UNDECIDED. the michigan supreme court ruling is clear.
don't you complicate this decision, place the delegates now or at the convention, MICHIGAN IS WAITING, NOW OR AT THE CONVENTION, you are playing into the separation of media to get paid by running this primary according to who they want to be, the democratic candidate wasting precious dollars feeding the media's bottomless pit. public funded elections will clean the system up and a leader that will . hillary will,,,,,michigan counts
Why is it that the democratic top brass like your self refuse to impose any sort of deadline for these Super Delegates who have not chosen their side, is it not time for this metaphorical bloodletting between the party to end so that it can ensure a real campain not the three months that may ensure John McCain's victory?
Mr. Dean, The democrats encourage me to go to school and better my self. Yet now that I have I feel very angry that your answer to all our problems is to Tax me back into my low income parents tax bracket. How can the Party allow middle income people to continue to strive for the American dream with out taxing us back into the poor house?
Why do you allow delegates to be over awarded to "loyal" precincts within States, but not to offer the same proportionality to the "loyal" States themselves?
Racking up wins in 100% 'RED" States should not be on par with winning the "loyal" States.
What is fair about a process where a candidate is all but selected before many states even have a chance to vote?
What is also fair about a system where Iowa and New Hampshire always go first? (the usual euphemism is tradition)
No one would suggest our national elections are run this way, why does the DNC?
The democratic party should be better at democracy.
I will want to know why you still don't want to count florida and michigan votes. If that vote is not counted, I will vote for maccin. I am a democrat. I am a black man but I don't like the way you and your so called men are fighting Ms Hillary Clinton in this very election. You and your group are working hard to see that she did not win. The white will not vote for a muslim ( Barak Hussian Obama ) to be American President. They do such thing in Nigeria and not in America.
With an MD, you are one of a few political figures with a scientific background. Many presidential candidates plead ignorance when the subject of understanding science arises. Considering the federal government is a major driver of science and that science is a major driver of the economy, should something be done to educate them on the subject.
How can we trust a party who won't allow the votes in Florida and Michigan to be counted before the convention? Is Barack Obama running under false pretenses that he has the popular vote?
Do people ever get you and John McCain mixed up because you look alike?
i am so glad there is a way to contact you finally.
i have been a democrat for a life time/i am 54 white female.
obama is too liberal for the democratic party. if you and the other good ole boys in the party think for one minute that you can trash hillary and tell her to drop out it will ruin the party.if obama gets the nominee
i will not vote for him and i know alot of other women and men that feel the same way. i will and this is a promise vote for mcain. and i will leave the party or should i say the party left me.
i am so sick of hillary being blamed for the negativity,obama has been just as negative. if you think the rev wright,ayrs,the bitter comment will not affect his election you are dead wrong.alot of iowan wish they would have known all this stuff about obama before the iowa cacuas because there are alot that want there vote back.i have never been for the guy because i can see right through him...his wife's comment reflect how he feels.he gives the same speech over and over again.what in the name of sam did you decide to punish michigan and florida in such a drastic way, what were you thinking, there votes need to count and when you listen to obama regarding there vote, that is WRONG!!! every american has a right to vote and it could have been a less of a puinishment then what you decided.i am so disappointed in your leadership. hillary is right the tide has turned. its about time some of you so called good ole guys in the party get a clue,the way you treat hillary is disgusting. i am so ashamed of this party right now.if a vote was done today knowing all this about obama, he would not be where he is today. bill richardson,leahy need to keep there mouth shut. hillary needs more support from her party.she is a fighter and she has every right to fight this election until the convention. if you think the polls aren't correct and we will come back to,the party you are sadly mistaken.mcain will win and this countryu will be betteer of with him then obama
Why can't all state primaries be held on the same date? It seems that would eliminate all this grief we're experiencing now. Also, it seems to me that the media is deciding this election because so many people are so easily influenced that they believe anything they hear.
For gosh sake, people, don't vote for McCain! We don't want a Bush simulacrum back in the WH for years on end. Listen to what McCain is saying -- he might even be worse than Bush (if that's possible).
Please continue to work toward a quick resolution as soon as all states have voted. All primary voters should have the privilege to get their votes counted, but after that we need a democratic nominee to take on John McCain. Let's draw this out any longer than necessary.
Let's NOT draw this out is of course what I meant.
Mr Dean:
Please re-consider the DNC's position on Florida and Michigan as I am very concerned that we may once again end up in front of the Supreme Court of the United States?
It is incumbent upon the Democratic Party to "pony-up" for new primaries in both states. Is it possible to put your best folks on the process and get this election back on track?
Right now, it is truly heart-breaking to watch the relentless parade of Superdelegates trying to force democracy out of the Democratic Party. It is even more heart-wrenching when some of these folks turn out to be Bill Richardson and Ted Kennedy.
I beg you to put this exciting electoral process back in the hands of the American voter rather than offering it up to the self-interested traits of official turncoats within the party.
Wait a minute -- did I just hear the echo of a gavel within the hallways of the Supreme Court?
Oh no, here we go again!
Thank you.
Ron Paul is a better politician and physician than you. You Suck!
Mr. Dean -
Why hasn't the Democratic Party, or the candidates, come out with a real answer to the gas crisis. Yes there is one. We can hardly afford to buy it anymore. I feel a roll back of prices with a cap is in order. The oil companies deserve big profits, but not RECORD profits. How do you feel about a roll back or a cap on gas prices?
Dear Sir,
I've watched the democractic race with great interest. I have noticed a couple of inequities. It seems as if Senator Obama is being malingned for his "judgement" in having a paster like the Reverend Wright. However, there is little mentioned about Senator Clinton's "judgement" in sticking with a husband who, at best has questionable morals. Now I don't believe that Senator Clinton is responsible for her husband's behaviour (although she celebrates his past behaviour, with the exxception of the above) anymore than I think Senator Obama is reponsible for the words of the Reverend. Somehow it feels like an inequity. Furthermore, there is a great deal of discussion about why Senator Obama cannot "get the working class or older woman vote," but little press about why Senator Clinton with all her oft stated expertise cannot attract intellectuals or young people (who are the future of your country!). I am an older, white female Canadian who is most interested in your politics. Your next President will influence how the rest of the world sees your country and I fervently hope that Senator Obama is elected. He will be good for your country and the rest of the world. I hope that these inequities can be addressed without hurting either Senator Clinton or Obama since that is not my intent. . Sincerely, Sylvia Laidman
Why are you not insisting that the Florida votes and delagates count?
To you, how likely is it that John McCain will win the general election?
In what ways can the general public help pick a Democratic nominee?
I'm a big fan of yours, but I am sorry to say I left the Democratic party because 1) The Democrats refused to take on Bush on any of his illegal activities: WIre tapping, torture, refusal to honor habeas corpus 2) The Democrats refused to challenge Bush on foreign policy and the bungled Iraq war, and 3) What do the Democrats really stand for?
Question: When will the real Democratic party stand up? May we have our Constitution back, please, soon?
Why are you allowing Clinton and Obama to mud-sling each other? Their message should constantly remind voters of the Republican failures and lies under Bush, and tie that to McCain, over and over and over again. Use specifics; ask Henry Waxman for details of all the investigations underway in Congress. Remind voters where their tax dollars have been wasted. Put the heat on McCain and take it off the Democrats. The Republicans are busily and happily remaking McCain. Keep the Dem message positive. How hard is that?
Would you support a joint effort with the GOP to pressure states to create a single, nationwide primary day?
Aren't the Democrats giving the Republicans a win because of all the bitterness etc. between Obama and Clinton? They certainly are giving the Republilcans a lot to use in future commercials.
It is a shame when the Democrats would have had a good chance to win. It is giving McCain's continuation of the inept Bush years a win on a silver platter. Unless the DNC does something soon, our wonderful country is going to be the big loser!
How do we convenience the whites that it is ok for Obama who for 20 yrs sat silent listening to raciest remarks from the black priest , that he is ready to lead the country
How is it that you are making a deal with Barac OBama for combined fundraising? Is this the fair playing field for Hilary Clinton?
Is the Democratic Party afraid of Bill & Hillary Clinton? If the answer is NO, then why can't you all put a stop to Hillary crimes against the Party?
On Iraq--
What is the mission, and how will we know when it has been accomplished?
How does it seem like Democrats always find a way to mess things up? Aren't you terrified that your convoluted delegate appropriation system is going to wreck the party and cost you yet another election? (If not, you should be)
I am a young, college student at the University of West Florida. I have been described as a "liberal" and fit every other demographic as a supporter of Obama. But I support Hillary Clinton because, in my opinion, Obama does not have the experience necessary to lead the most powerful nation on Earth. Isn't it wrong for the media to automatically assume racism when we have legitimate concerns about Obama's capabilities to lead as president?
Seeing as the democratic leadership has determined to "take impeachment off the table," what measures are left for Democrats to enforce constitutional behavior from this administration?
If no action is to be taken by Democrats to a) reign in deficit spending, b) rethink the overall strategy of nation-building (not merely in terms of Iraq mismanagement) or c) restoring civil liberties by suspending the heinous increases of federal power and abuse characterized by any number of recently passed laws (PATRIOT ACT, Protect America Act, Military Commsions Act, Prevention of Homegrown Terrorism Act), why should Democrats be elected in the first place?
A party that refuses to have any sort of backbone is not, Mr. Dean, an opposition party. How do you defend the total incompetence of your party to hold those who abuse their constitutional powers in check?
If you allow Senator Clinton to count the delegates she received in Florida and Michigan, aren't you rewarding her for not playing by the rules? What does that say about the Democratic party?
Dr. Dean:
It's no secret that Main Street USA is suffering with high prices, unemploymnet, and a crumbling infrastructure. The solution to all of those is to get the unemployed working on rebuilding the infrastructure, cleaning up the debris from the old infrastructure (lots of dead wood that can be converted into biofuel!) and modernizing the infrastructure to achieve energy independence and lower costs. Plus we need to get trade practices in play that will bring medium- and heavy-manufacturing jobs back to America.
So my question is this: Why in the world doesn't any Democrat propose to do EXACTLY that? Why doesn't Hillary or Obama run on the simple slogan of "Rebuilding America"? It wins, plain and simple.
Do you ever consider running again for the Democratic nomination sometime in the future?
We are Floridian voted during the Dem. primary. WE DID NOT BREAK ANY RULES WHY OUR VOTES DO NOT COUNT?. You can take the delegates but why our votes.
Remember the Al Gore general election year Dem. lost the white house to only a handle votes to the republican here. I hope you and the DNC not messing this coming Nov general election up.
Thanks
Given the huge costs to the party of continued mutual assured destruction by both candidates, why is the cost of a re-vote in Michigan and Florida so high? I bet many national Democrats would be happy to contribute toward it, and you could hold a cost-efficient mail-in/Internet vote.
Why not hold a vote in these two state quickly, and then require superdelegates to make up their minds within 1 week of these two state's votes, and you'd put a fair end date to this whole mess.
No other solution in Florida or Michigan will be credible, and the innocent voters of these states deserve their say regardless of the mess their state's politicians have made of things.
Governor Dean, wouldn't having the campaign process play out fully, up until the convention and in all 50 states, be in keeping with the philosophy behind your 50 state strategy?
Governor Dean, You, more than most, understand how a candidate's standing can plummet on the whim of something that candidate does or says...or even just HOW that act or statement is conveyed by the press. The public's perception of a candidate is more resilient, if it was formed over a longer period of time, and more unstable if we are still getting acquainted. Isn't it in the Democratic Party's interest, to have this campaign run until the Convention to avoid a crash and burn?
Governor Dean, we have heard that Michigan and Florida didn't play by the rules and that is why the primary votes may not count. But what about New Hampshire? Didn't they have their primary out of the agreed upon sequence this year?
Gov. Dean I worked this past primary at at my local election voting place. There were many new potential voters who we had to turn away because they had not registered in time according to NY state rules. I think our system needs a total over haul. I feel it is unfair that each state has their own different rules. It is confusing for many voters who have recently moved and it can also cause problems when some states allow even republicans to vote in a democratic primary.
We have heard pundits encouraging republicans to vote for a candidate just to throw off an election. I feel each state should abide by a set of rules set up by the DNC and only registered democrats should be allowed to vote in a democratic primary.
Can we also have clear rules that the candidates must abide by or be disqualified . Since Ms Clinton agreed that Florida and Michigan would not count it is wrong for her to now suggest differently. I do not feel any voter wants to see the candidates picked by a group of super delegates. Will you consider overhauling the democratic primary system so it can run more evenly in each state,?
We live in a diverse, multi-generational society that operates on a nano-second system that thrives on emails, message boards, and text messages. Do you believe that the current two party system can still work in a country that has several layers of diversity - education, economics and culture- with very different expectations? Whose afraid of using solely the popular vote to determine the winner and why?
What do you think about the Hillary Clinton campaigns argument that we should count the big states over the small? That does not seem to be in keeping with the philosophy behind your 50 state strategy? Battle ground states are not always big states: are we also trying to win in small states and red states? Would you discourage superdelegates to go along with this warped thinking ?
Aren't the Super-delegates rubber-stamps if they have to ratify a candidate simply because he or she has more delegates but not the required number of 2025 ?. If yes, will you support the idea of doing away with Super -delegates and simply make it simple majority?
What is the most dramatic demographic difference between those who vote in the primaries and those who vote in the general election?
The pollsters have been notably off in predicting primary election results in part because many young folks don't have land-line phones. Political parties often use polling as a means of accessing views - how is the democratic party ensure that they are in touch with today's 20-somethings.
In my opinion, the media way overreacted to your yell. You were such
a good choice (and look what we ended up with). Are you ever bitter
of the fallout from that?
It seems that if Hillary's last name were anything else but Clinton, the party would have stepped in on this process long ago. How does the party regroup after such a destructive primary season. bush fatigue alone will not insure a November victory.
Do you favour elimination of the Electoral College?
Will you have a voice in choosing the Dem Convention's Write to Lead essay competition winners?
Can you articulate what happened in the speech, in 2004 and why all hands got taken off you, by not only the voters, but also by party supporters? Is it that people don't want their presidents to express emotion?
Which world leader do you respect the most and why?
If given the opportunity, what would be the first thing you would attempt to change?
The DNC, which you chair, refuses to count the votes from the Michigan and Florida primaries. The news media stated the DNC's reason is to punish the people of Michigan and Florida for holding their primaries early. PUNISH for voting early? Why? Excuse my naivety, but I always assumed in a democracy we would encourage people to vote and not punish them. What difference does it make that they voted early? It's incomprehensible! I don't understand the mind set of the DNC to punish the voters for voting early? I can see such tactics used in North Korea, Cuba, Communist China or some 3rd world country, but here in America?
The only reason to deny the votes in Michigan and Florida is to manipulate the outcome of the primaries. Polls indicated that Hillary Clinton would win in MI & FL so the DNC came up with a lame excuse to deny her delegates in order for Barack Obama could win. Have the primaries in MI & FL again? Polls indicate Hillary Clinton would win. Can't have that happen. Let's come up with another lame excuse, “It's too expensive to have the primaries again”. Since when does democracy have a price tag. So dictatorships are better, because their cheaper? Split the votes evenly between Obama and Clinton? Guess what Obama wins again. Such blatant manipulation is deplorable.
The Democratic Party use to represent the middle class, the blue collar worker. Today it represent a group of elitist who contort the system to get their way. Denying the right of the people to have their votes counted is a slap in the face of democracy.
People disapprove of the job Congress is doing. Does this mean the gains made in the 2006 election will be lost in 2008?
As chairman of the DNC, are you dissappointed that have not received proper recognition for the positive gains the Democratic Party has had (since you took over ) by 1)raising (by far) more money than the GOP 2) gaining a majority in both the Senate and Congress, and 3) by presenting Demecrats with their best choice for president in recent history?
As chairman of the DNC, are you dissappointed that you have not received proper recognition for the positive gains the Democratic Party has had (since you took over ) by 1)raising (by far) more money than the GOP 2) gaining a majority in both the Senate and Congress, and 3) by presenting Demecrats with their best choice for president in recent history?
Chairman Dean,
I have been hearing a lot of "buzz" about the Clinton finances after Hillary released her tax records reciently. The internet contains much information and pictures re: the ' Paul vs Clinton" suit pending in CA.. However, the TV news channels, are failing to report anything. So rumors abound.
Is Bill going to continue with his Dubia contract if Hillary gets the nominnation? Lots of stuff (as well) on the internet here too. I think these are important questions for someone who aspires to be President.
I think Hillary should address those questions. Better now than later.
People I know don't trust Her, and these issue feed into the problem. I personally belive she is a cronic lier and I don'tt wouldn't want her on my team. Not even as a minor player.
Have you ever considered making that (in)famous "yell" into a ringtone? I think it would be a big hit.
Living where I do, the Republican Party has a strong hold on the middle-age white male. Do you ever see that changing? What has caused this in the first place?
How do you deal with criticism? Does it affect you differently when it is public as a politician or private as a physician?
I am a 15 year old very interested in politics. Would you ever support a law lowering the voting age?
Dear Mr. Dean,
Greetings from Washington Heights. Hope you are well. Here are my two questions to you:
1. Do you think Hillary will attempt to become like Margaret Thatcher in a bid for the White House? And if so, do you think this will have any affects on her policy decisions as President?
2. How can we get rid of our national debt so that the American dollar is no longer inflated and performing poorly in the worldwide market. Can you outline specific steps that can be instituted by the private sector as well as the national and state government.
Thank you for your time and insights.
Yours Sincerely,
Melissa Yaeko Slaker
(age 26, Japanese American female, over educated, and A VOTER)
Clearly, race or sex isn't an issue in this race. But... do you think America is ready for such a change?? and can the Democratic Party rally behind one candidate or will it still be fractured come November?
With the fight for the nomination going so long, the divide grows immensely, creating a situation that could have long-lasting future effects. What do you propose in order to restore unity to the Democratic party?
How do you respond to critics who say John McCain is not a true Republican? How do you define what constitutes a true Democrat and do you think party labels are as meaningful as they once were?
Do you think it is fair to say that both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton and equally contributing to the fuel that is running John McCain's poll numbers? And do you think that once we have a nominee, we can recover?
Kennedy, Kerry, and Richardson are high profile superdelegates for Obama, yet their constiuates in Mass. and N.M. voted for Clinton. It all seems like smoke and mirrors. We Democrats have to simplify this crazy process of selecting our standard bearer!!
I have a great feeling that Mrs Clinton is doing eveything so that Barack Obama not be elected in November. She probably assumes McCain will be one term president, then she can run again afterwards. But if Barcak wins in November, chances are he will be a two term president, too long for Mrs Clinton to wait.
Would you please tell me if my feelings are correct?
What was the last book you read?
what the democratic party is going to do about the mismanagement
of our taxes, we are taxed to the max, fed, state, city, county,gas, bridges etc. is not what we make is how much we are taxed.
Why there is always an unrealistic criterion for a Presidential candidate
and extreme scrutiny to find a perfect individual while ignoring the fact that we are all human.
Would you Encourage a Democratic Ticket Includes Both Candidates ?
Chairman Dean:
Here is the numerical scoop: (like it or not)
A. Hillary Clinton leads by consistent national polling numbers, Republican Senator, John McCain. Obama is, and has been with only a very few exceptions, BEHIND Senator McCain in those same national polls.
B. Try to understand this statisical what must look like gobbldigook:
1. Of Hillary Clinton's primary voters, polls show consistently that 27% of her Democratic voters WILL NOT vote for Obama IF he is the party's nominee. Of his primary voters, by comparison, only 17% of his primary voters have consistently said they will not vote for her IF she is the party's nominee.
2. She has won the popular vote over Obama in all of those electoral college "big appes" (which are the "Blue," or Democratic-leaning states. In case anyone hasn't figured it out yet, that means that she has her base, of not only her Democratic voters, but Obama's Democratic voters, behind her IF she is the party's nominee.
I don't think that African-American Democratic voters will leave the party to become Republican voters any time soon. They know which of the two parties has been their greatest champions when it comes to policies that have helped them so much in the past.
Don't you think it is high time to announce, like today, right now perhaps, that Florida and Michigan delegates will be seated, AND COUNTED at the Democratic National Convention??
We want a Democrat in the White House. A vote for Obama IS, whether anyone cares to admit it or not, a vote for George W. McCain, who might as well be called "George W. McWar."
Woops. I made one blooper of a mistake:
When I said that "African-American voters will leave the Democratic Party if Obama is not the nominee, I meant that I don't think they will. I think most African-Americans are like the rest of Americans: rave is less important than the color of the skin of our party's nominee. I believe that they want a Democrat in the White House as much as the rest of us do.
We want peace in Iraq that comes with a well-defined step-by-step plan that will NOT leave a vacuum to be filled by angry competing groups who kill each other over resources they had when
Saddam was alive and in power. However we didn't like his dictatorial style, he sold oil where he could in order to feed his people, even to the point that he didn't build up his military after the first Gulf War ended.
Dear Mr. Dean, I am a new resident of Florida. During the time of the primary, I called the Democratic Headquarters here is Tavares and asked where do I go to vote. They told be where to go and added "you can vote but your vote isn't going to be counted because we are not having a primary here". He added "but you can vote if you want but it really is a waste of time." So I didn't bother. Now it is being changed to include Florida votes. What about all those who didn't vote because they thouht they weren't being counted? It is not fair to them. I would have voted for Edwards. I called the Edwards Campaign and they said "no primary counted in Florida. What is going on. The rules should stand as you made them. Clinton AGREED. THAT AGREEMENT SHOULD STAND AND IF SHE GOES BACK ON HER WORD IT IS THEN JUST ANOTHER LIE AND SHE SHOULD NOT BE NOMINATED ANYWAY. I'm angry Also The Idea that Obama is not electable because of race is wrong. How could he get all the votes he has now. The older folks are more prejudice and there is not enough of them. I am 68 and Obama has my vote.
I don't see how there can be any question about whether or not to seat Michigan and Florida delegates. If we do, don't we just condone what they have done and therefore encourage both those States and others from doing the same thing next election? How could you seat them this year and not next year when they do the same thing? How about if four more States hold their prmaries early because they know they will be seated anyway?
I don't get it.
How can anyone question the legitmacy of not seating renegade States?
Why do you defend using ads attacking John McCain when they clearly take his words out of context?
Chairman Dean,
Has there been any integration between your 50-state strategy and the Obama campaign to this point? It appears that Obama's primary campaign strategy tracked closely to your belief that Democrats should fight for votes in each state. If/when Obama is the nominee, how will the DNC and the Obama campaign work together to implement this strategy and continue to turn red states blue?
Will the Democratic Party follow through on canceling the Big Oil Subsidies and putting 150 billion into Ethanol production. Will the DNC resolve to push the oil industry down and move clean energy up?
Knowing what you know now, do you think it was foolish for the party that prides itself on "making every vote count" to embrace a system that will possibly let Washington Elitists choose the Democrat nominee?
When there were rules in place prior to the Michigan and Florida primaries, shouldn't those rules be what keeps the DNC from using the outcome of those elections to determine a winner for the nomination?
Has the DNC started to develop strategy to handle Sean Hannity, Bill O'Reilly and other ConservativeMouthpieces in the coming election?
How can the DNC encourage the people that it's okay to bend the rules and change the rules to fit there individual needs? I understand the importance of sitting the MI and FL delegations, but what happened to moral principles. If people are not going to follow the rules, then what's the essence of having one. Rules are rules and this is unfortunate that NObody is addressing the fact that some in the DNC are breaking the rules and publicly acting like they are proud of it. What message are we or the DNC sending to our younger generation? it's okay to bend the rules when you see fit?
Has anyone yet seen how the GOP has beaten the last two excellent
democrats that ran for President? I firmly believe that they will also
beat Obama, though many feel he is an excellent candidate. Does
Howard Dean not realize that they only lost to the Clintons?
Is that not obvious? Or am I the only liberal genius left?
Also the true change would be to elect a woman not a man
of any color. I am truly disgusted with the sexist attitude that
prevails in 2008. What a great progressive nation this is.
I realize that the focus is now on the presidential election, but could you answer a question about the Hill for me? I have heard little about any significant accomplishments of the Reid/Pelosi Congress. It should be apparent that there should be serious inquiries made by Congress as to the legalities of many actions taken by this administration. Yet, all I seem to hear about is "fluff" legislation such as that for the Armenian genocide. Though I agree that it was a horrible event in human history, but so was the genocide suffered by the Native Americans. Do you feel this Congress has been effective and in what way?
Will you get more vocally involved in the general election for the Presidency once this primary race is over so we can be assured of a Republican election victory?
Hillary Clinton is increasingly touting her appeal to "white voters," and still insisting that Barack Obama cannot win in November. Her speech in Portland was widely reported as extremely negative. Can you think of any parallel situation in 20th century American politics where the presumptive Presidential nominee was openly attacked by a rival from his own party, without incurring the wrath of the leadership?
Sincerely,
Tom Friedman
MR DEAN HOW ON EARTH CAN YOU SUPPORT OBAMA YOU KNOW GOOD AND WELL THE MAN HAS NOT GO A CHANCE AGAINST MCCAIN YOU KNOW THIS WHY ARE YOU ALLOWING IT HE IS A RACEIST YOU KNOW THIS HIS FRIENDS ARE KNOWN TERRIOST HAMMAS SUPPORT HIM HE IS DEVOTED TO AFRCIA AND WANT TO GIV THEM 845.000 DOLLARS WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD YOU PUT AMERICA INTO THIS POSSITON ARE YOU WANTING MCCAIN TO WIN THE GENERAL ELECTION CNN HAS BOARDCASTED YOUR SCARED OF NOT GIVING OBAMA THE NOB BECAUSE OF HIS RACE IF THIS IS HOW YOU ARE THEN WHY DONT YOU DO ALL OF US A FAVOR AND STEP DOWN YOU WANT ALLOW FLA AND MICHGAIN VOTE TO BE COUNTED AND THE DELGATES TO GO TO HILLARY LIKE IT SHOULD BE STOP BING SUCH A PECKERHEAD AND GET OFF YOUR BUT AND PUT A STOP TO IT BEFORE IT TO LATE YOUR JUST AS MUCH OF A TRADER AS OBAMA IS AND THE POOR IN AMERICAN IS DAM LIKE ALWAYS DO THE JOB YOUR PAID TO DO SUPPORT WHAT IS RIGHT AND FAIR GIVE US HILLARY
I wonder why politicians in this country do not seriously address the core issues in the middle east. For example, the moderates in that region would very much like to resolve the Israeli-Plastenian issue and only then will substantialy weaken the extremists case to exist.
Thank You
Given the controversy surrounding the Democratic presidential primary, do you think the party should reform it's rules so that a nominee can be chosen faster without the help of automatic delegates? Would you consider leading such effort?
Have you spoken to Dave Chappelle since his "Byah!" parody? What noise do you sugget Sen. Obama make upon winning the democratic nomination?
When did you first become interested in politics?
Hello Sir:
How does the DNC plan to pacify "Democrats" like Ms. Faye Williams from Evansville who say that they will vote Republican if Senator Obama wins? This has to be an issue that you can to take into consideration.
Thank You.
Given the controversy surrounding the Democratic presidential primary, do you think the party should reform its rules so that a nominee emerges earlier without the help of automatic unpledged delegates? Would you consider leading such effort?
Governor Dean,
Why would the DNC make one set of rules, and then try to make a different set of rules. Of course I am speaking of the Michigan and florida primaries. I must say I believe people will look at the DNC under your leadership, with questioning eyes. You can't rewrite rules that apply to everyone, just to satisfy one candidate. That's very hypocritical. If the people of Florida are upset, they should place the blame at the foot of the Republican govenor of their state, where it belongs.
How has the system of Superdelegates and the Electoral College helped enhance our election process in a way one person = one vote could not?
If you weren't serving as chairman of the DNC during this year's election, do you think you would have tried running for president again?
How can the Michigan delegates be seated properly when Obama was not apart of the actual ballot? How do you think Hillary would want this to be determined if her name was not on the ballot and his was?
Under any circumstance could you support giving the Democratic nomination to Hillary Clinton if after all the votes are counted and the primaries are done Barack Obama is ahead in votes and delegates if your polling shows he can't beat John McCain?
Do you feel that the long, drawn-out nature of the Democratic race this season has in a way put the Republican party at an advantage? During this time of Bush-rebound, wouldn't it have better served the Democratic party to appear unified and strengthened instead of unsure and divided?
I am a sixteen year-old student who is excited about the political process, but what can I do to get involved, even at this age?
I voted voted Humphrey in 1968, my first election, and every Democrat thereafter. I voted for Hillary Clinton in the Florida primary. Are you going to count my vote? If not, I will not for Obama in November.
Why did you put the Democratic party in a no-win situation in November, 2008 by disenfranchising Florida and Michigan Democratic primary voters? Why should Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina have more influence than the rest of the states in choosing a candidate? Why shouldn't every state have their primary vote on the same day? Is it really better that candidates spend all their time and money in these three states and not to have to spend time and money in the others in the interest of saving the party money and the cost of unfairness to the other states in the Democratic process? Now that you put us in a situation where Democratic primary voters in Michigan and Florida will be encouraged to vote Republican in November since their primary votes didn't count, what are you going to do about it so that we can win these states instead of lose them in November?
Can the DNC/Democratic party pressure Obama to select Hillary for his VP/running mate? Please, please, please can we have new faces?
If the Florida delegates are seated as-is, and a deal is agreed upon regarding Michigan, what is to stop - say, Guam - from moving up their primaries before February in the next cycle? Does the DNC lose legitimacy if this happens? Wouldn't states just consider the DNC punishment a bluff?
Why have they not counted MI and FL votes is that fair for hilary?
why 91% of africans americans vote for obama/
but why not 91% of white americans not to vote for hilary?
VOTE ANYONE BUT NOT OBAMA.......................
Mr. Dean,
I understand that you want to have the delegate from Michigan and Florida seated at the Democratic National Convention in August, and I understand that it is, probably, inevitable that they will be. Aside from the fact that both of those elections were flawed when they took place, there is the issue that the powers-that-be in Florida and Michigan knowingly broke the rules when they moved their primary dates up, and were willing to take the punishment this election year in order to be better positioned in 2012. If you go back on the Rules and Regulations Committee's decision to punish them, doesn't that almost destroy the credibility of that committee? And how do you explain that to states that played by the rules?
Hi. Is the Michigan/Florida mess a human rights' issue or a law & order problem ?
Secondly, I fall off my chair everytime I hear a Democrat will vote Republican if the other candidate wins the nomination. How shallow can your members be ? Do they in fact belong either to the Hillary or the Obama Party ? Difficult to understand from up here in Québec.
Best regards.
There is rhetoric from both camps as to why they are the stronger candidate for Nov. and both sides from their minds have a valid argument. Do you believe that no matter what the outcome is of the primary season, that the DNC will be strong enough to keep it together for Nov. in order to gain control of the White House?
What do you think about the news media offering a half hour highlighting some of the good deeds, actions and people of the United States?
It has been commented that people would not be interested. I disagree and I think many other people feel the same way. Maybe this type of show would inspire the good guys instead of glamorizing the bad guys.
Do we still have a democracy? Since when does the democratic party disenfranchise voters? What are your reasons for not having a revote in Michigan or Florida? Before I vote for Obama, as a Clinton supporter, I would really like some small sense of assurance that he really was the candidate of choice. You say you don't want to bend the rules but aren't you pushing an early vote of superdelegates or some pre-convention meeting? Isn't that chingalinging the rules, too? The reason to have a revote in those states is not because Clinton may win the popular vote but because the race IS so close.
Upon entering Yale, You requested to share a room with an African American. Did you know then how that relationship might enrich your life?
Howard Dean,
What happened to the "chawww"?
Why are you not angry anymore? You really should be.
What is going on in this picture?
Will candidates and their advisors have full flexibility during the Democratic National Convention to negotiate over and trade delegate votes?
The level of anger and ignorance on this board is astounding. I voted in the Illinois primary and had my say. I will vote for whatever Democrat wins the nomination. It looks more and more like Sen. Obama, but it doesn't matter. Democratic principles are what matters. Some of you people need to back up and take a deep breath. We have two fantastic candidates. Both bring history and a different perspective. Obama is new and stands as a fresh, progressive approach to problems DC has been 'trying' to solve for years, offering to re-engineer the machine. Clinton brings vast centrist experience and the knowledge of how the machine works.
Vote for what you think is important at this time, but allow others to feel differently. The consititution doesn't mention experience, gender, or color when outlining the requirements to be President. The Framers left that for us to decide. Make your decision and move on. You will change no minds here or on any discussion board on the net.
As for the idiots who claim Obama is a racist, islamic, an islamic plant, or unpatriotic because he won't wear a lapel pin... your medicine is here. Please swallow all the contents of the dixie cup and wash it down with water. Get a life and get some facts.
Another point: Dr. Dean did not keep the votes in Fla and Mich from counting... the legislature who moved the primaries did. Blame them, not Obama, the DNC, or Dr. Dean. It is equivelent to blaming the police officer for your speeding.
Any Democrat who would vote for McCain just because their candidate didn't win (or stay home and not vote at all) needs to remember that's how Nixon got in office. The Supreme Court is too critical to throw a tizzy fit and run home with your ball. Grow up and understand that our candidate, whoever it is, is better than the GOP candidate. Else you might wake up to find your rights eroded even further and the U.S. not just still in Iraq but our sons and daughters trapped in Iran too.
I forgot another point: the GOP has superdelegates too. Their nominating process just ended before they got to where that was important.
Please try to inform yourselves before trying to inform others.
The contest between Senator Obama and Senator Clinton & her husband, former President Clinton, needs to end. Why are the Clintons continuing to bring race into this election? It is time to end the charade, nominate the candidate who is clearly winning, and get in gear for the general election. We are getting voter fatigue.
.....Thanks you for taking my question..Thanks to the TIME Magazine for give me a chance, to asked a question..I do like your political acting, what they called yelling..I wish, I can do like that..I also like the way your understanding equaly fair and free elections for both candidates..My questions is, everybody are now wondering, why USA and whole world political leaders are getting into making more troubles to their people than they can resolve..How can you and leaders of both party, clean up their trash politicians and who you think, who is the best to lead this country..John McCain, Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama..??..Thank you..
P.S...I like to compare to my experience with other world leaders and your 10 answers..
Mr. Dean how could a leader such as yourself who advocates and believes in a free and democratic government allow to of the nations most populous state not have the voice of their delegates heard? How could a senior political team not see the consequences of these actions, and how the could result in a mass alienation of long term core democratic supporters? Should more thought not of been put into this process before the primaries began?
As a part's chief, why can't you to force the superdelicates to pick their choice early to avoid bitter race?Why SD takes so much time? Why they should wait till last state complets the primary process?
Dr. Dean, Would you please clarify the reason for the "superdelegates"? I thought their purpose was to help select the best candidate at the convention--especially in a close race, such as we have. However, it appears that they may use their influence during the primaries, too. If this is the case, would it not be fairer and more democratic to let "superdelegates" campaign for the candidate of their choice and to let the voters decide the candidate at the ballot box, rather than give select voters a more influential voice/vote? Thanks.
My question is simple: Why are you such a tool?
Step up and show some leadership. You've stood by quietly while Hillary has torn another democrat to pieces.
Mr Dean, I'm across the lake from your home. Question -- Has the democratic party ever looked into or considered the possibility of declaring home fuel oil & kerosene a utility controlled by the Public Service Commission? If the electricity-telephone-sewer-water-heating propane that we use in a home is controlled by the PSC then why are we not governing/controlling the cost of # 2 fuel oil and kerosene to heat our homes? My electric heat is controlled by a commision so why isn't the oil in my oil barrel also? The cost of automobile fuel might be a different issue. So -- Question # 2 Why not a dual optional plan for gasoline? -- # 1 --Rationed gasoline with a price cap (that would be the amount needed to go to and from work and necessary duties of a home), controlled by the PSC not the oil industry. or Option # 2 -- Let those who want, pay free market uncontrolled pricing such as now exist for fuel gusseling cars, boats etc? I'll bet we would see a drastic decrease in use of gasoline and a great service to our nation. It would accelerate the thinking in Detroit toward more fuel efficient vehicles. I would be glad to drive less with rationing fuel like we did in World War II. The fuel crisis is worse now than it was in WW II.
MI and FL has become an eye sore upon the Democratic Pary because of their own stupidity. If the delegates are to be seated, it should be split between Obama and Clinton equally . Why would anyone want to give Clinton more delegates than Obama, when she agreed to the rules as well?
Where do you see yourself 10 years from now? Do you have any dreams that you'd like to still accomplish?
What do you love about Politics? What draws you to it?
Pepsi or Coke?
Speaking as a former Presidential candidate, how important is experience?
What do you think the world should do about the cyclone in Myanmar?
If you were running for President this year, what would be your plan for Iraq? Would you begin withdrawal within 60 days of claiming Presidency or would you stay for 100 more years?
What type of music do you listen to?
What country do you think America could learn the most from?
I long for a campaign filled with policy-wonk discussions rather than empty promises unlikely to get through Congress. The most critical question is, can we have a campaign that is deeply issue oriented, and honest about how ideas get through Congress on things like nationalized health insurance, fixing Medicare, and Social Security? Don't say, "read it in our platform statement", documents that are almost meaningless. Rather, can the candidates be asked to argue plans, costs, legislative hurdles, taxes that to go up to pay for these things, and how they would go about persuading Congress and the public to make these hard decisions? Notice, I didn't ask about Iraq?
WHO IS MORE TRUSTABL OBAMA orCLINTON
WHO IS A LIAR(bosnia spiners+patient died with no$100 for insurance.whoisborn rich and ELITE &have10 ys in w office
who supported nafta when BILL CLINTON WAS inoffice who is ready to burn a house to boil 2 egg
hillary is a liar not trustable ready to take the democratic nomination even if she destroy AMERICA & DEMOCRATS&HER SELF
BARACK ROSE FROM ZORO AND HE IS GAINING OVER SEN CLINTON IN EVERY ASPECT
SUPER DELIGATES THAT IS FULL OF JUSTICE AND TRUST AND
COCIOUSNESS KNOW WHO CAN LEAD POWERFUL AMERICA