In the 2008 U.S. presidential election, the Democratic Party witnessed a historic primary battle between Hillary Clinton, the first woman with a serious chance of becoming president, and Barack Obama, the first African American with a comparable opportunity. This contest not only highlighted significant milestones but also underscored deep political and racial divides, influencing the dynamics of American politics.
The Democratic primary of 2008 was notable for its groundbreaking candidates:
As the primaries progressed, Obama gained a slight lead in delegates, particularly after victories in Wyoming on March 8 and Mississippi on March 11. These wins were pivotal, not just for the delegate count but for the racial voting patterns they revealed. Obama secured approximately 90% of the African American vote in Mississippi but only a quarter of the white vote, a pattern that was evident across several Southern states source: Pew Research Center.
Clinton's campaign faced its own challenges, particularly with the disqualification of 366 delegates from Florida and Michigan, where Obama's name was not on the ballot. This issue highlighted significant procedural flaws and led to discussions about potentially redoing the voting by mail, a costly and logistically challenging proposal.
The campaign was marred by intense scrutiny of both candidates' backgrounds and identities. Clinton's remarks suggesting that Obama's race was a factor in his candidacy sparked controversy and needed careful handling to avoid alienating voters in upcoming primaries in states like Indiana and North Carolina.
On the Republican front, John McCain emerged as a strong contender, benefiting from the divisive Democratic primary. Many believed McCain could capitalize on the internal conflicts of the Democrats, who needed to unify to challenge his candidacy effectively.
A NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll from the time indicated a strong public desire for change, with 76% of voters wanting a departure from President Bush's policies. Only 17% were content with the status quo, and 43% felt their situation had worsened over the past four years. This sentiment set the stage for a highly competitive general election, with both Clinton and Obama needing to strategically position themselves as agents of change source: NBC News.
The May 6, 2008, primary in North Carolina became a decisive moment for the Democratic nomination. It was not just about winning delegates but also about proving which candidate could appeal broadly across the rest of the country. The outcome of this primary was seen as a bellwether for the remaining contests and ultimately shaped the trajectory towards the November general election.
This historic primary not only set the stage for the future of the Democratic Party but also for the transformative elections that would follow, marking a significant shift in the landscape of American electoral politics.
F1 World Championship 2008 Close to End
By next October 12th one of the remaining three Formula One races will be held at the Fuji Circuit in Japan; the other two races are China and Brazil respectively.
Beijing Olympics - Chinese Gymnastics Team Cleared
The Chinese gymnastics team has been under close investigation due to the athletes’ age group being questioned as it has been stated they were under the age of fourteen while the minimum age is suppose to be between fifteen and sixteen. This particular investigation included the 2000 Sidney Olympic team participants as well.
Armstrong Signs with Astana & Contador Is Not Happy
The all-time favorite Tour de France winner, the American Lance Armstrong has announced his comeback to the professional cycling world. Armstrong’s new goal is to pursue a new Tour de France victory and he has already begun talking to the Astana team. Additionally, Armstrong is willing to go through several drug tests to better his performance. The cyclist is aware he will be supporting his team mate, the Spaniard Alberto Contador at the next Tour de France.
