I'm getting a headache. This RBC (Rules and Bylaws Committee) meeting in Washington goes on and on. There are so many different complicated scenarios out there that I need two Excedrin and a calculator. This thing is so complicated it makes the College Football Bowl Championship Series look like first grade math.
I will have more to say after they vote but let me offer a few observations so far.
First of all, like I have been saying for over a month now, I don't see Hillary Clinton getting out anytime soon. Look, it appears as though, at this point, Florida is going to work itself out but Michigan is the real sticking point. If Clinton, or Michigan officials decide to take this to the credentials Committee in July, whether by appeal or by the fact that the RBC can't come to an agreement, then guess what? Her campaign stays alive, the magic number for delegates goes up because of Florida and Obama can't claim a pure victory because Michigan hasn't been decided. But there are a few other important points to remember.
After June 3, Hillary Clinton will claim the popular vote victory too (if Puerto Rico goes big for her), and she could pull off an upset in South Dakota. Plus, by extending this fight to the Credentials Committee she waits and prays-- for another Rev. Jeremiah Wright/Rev. Michael Pfleger moment.
One last thought: are pledged delegates really pledged delegates? The answer is no and if Clinton believes she should be the nominee who knows? The campaign could even make a play for these so called "pledged" delegates.
Finally, does anybody see the irony in the fact that it may be Nancy Pelosi, a woman, a very powerful woman who may end up being the one to push Clinton out of this race. She wants this thing over and has super delegate sway which she could unveil after June 3. I think Clinton still pushes on but still -- what a race.
And by the way, forget the Excedrin. I need extra strength Tylenol. Prescription strength.
Comments?