The end is nigh

... It was ... clear that the Clinton people were blindsided by Edwards' move; earlier in the day, they were reportedly sending assurances that Edwards intended to remain neutral. After the endorsement went public, they were reduced to uttering rote assurances of their alleged viability (campaign chairman Terry McAuliffe: "This thing is far from over"), even though it's likely that the endorsement will also boost Obama's delegate tally among regular delegates. Edwards won 18 during the primaries, and it's safe to assume that most will now move to Obama; indeed, at least six of Edwards' eight South Carolina delegates appear to be moving already.   

Edwards aside, however, I would argue that the bigger symbolic blow to Clinton was delivered yesterday by NARAL Pro-Choice America. It too endorsed Obama, thereby sending the message that even a prominent feminist abortion-rights organization, with strong sisterhood ties to Clinton, believes that her quest is futile. This endorsement is stark evidence that part of her base is beginning to erode. This endorsement is also the first major signal to liberal women that defeating John McCain (and preserving Roe v. Wade) should take precedence.

The Clinton camp was blindsided by this endorsement as well; Hillary sat for a series of broadcast interviews yesterday, fully expecting to preen about West Virginia - and, instead, she had to answer for NARAL. During her chat on NBC, more rote assurances ensured: "Well, obviously, I've - I am dissapointed because of the work I have done for many years...But we're going forward."

When the spin-savvy Clinton team is reduced to such sputterings, it's a fresh sign that the end is nigh. ... Dick Polman, Philadelphia Inquirer ...