Hillary Clinton: Stay in the Race! 

Participation and excitement within the Democratic Party is at an all time high. The vigorous race between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton continues to invigorate the party, and draw new members.  Participation in local Democratic District meetings, caucuses, and primaries has exploded. States which normally enjoy no influence in nomineee selection are suddenly meaningful, and excited. Meanwhile, voters get the benefit of learning more and more about both candidates each day. Remind me again why this is damaging the Democratic Party? At least, this is the reason most often cited why Clinton should drop. 

It is not surprising this pressure comes almost exclusively from Barack Obama's campaign and supporters. What is surprising is that a constituency so focused on promise and hope would be urging someone to quit, because it's hopeless.

Perhaps a wonky winner, I've always considered it a letdown to claim a victory due to forfeit. And we're talking about the Presidency of the United States--it is not like asking someone to step aside politiely in the line at the bank.

Hillary has earned about half the popular vote, routinely exceeds her opponent and the GOP candidate in daily electoral math, and has a following just as strong and passionate as her opponent. She has won all the deep blue states despite being outspent and maneuvered in caucus states that will never elect a Democrat President.

And if any damage is occuring in the party, it is not because 2 great candidates are running. Democrats themselves, individually, are accountable and need to own their beliefs & behavior.

Each and every individual participant contributes to the spirit of this primary season, and to the level of divisiveness. Instead of finding reasons to win by default, step aside and understand the gift of having two great candidates. Let it play out. We don't have to tear down one candidate to support the other. It is up to us to stop making it black or white--this is a process and it is healthy.