Devastation.

[ccharles000]

I know Hillary will most likely not be the nominee. I will vote for Obama in the GE. I am sitting here sobbing and feeling heart broken over this whole thing. I invested so much emotion for Hillary. I defended her no matter what. I now and forever will adore her. This is my first time involved with politics and it has devastated me in every way and I don't think I will be able to ever be as involved again.

Defeat is a school in which truth always grows strong.-Henry Ward Beecher

[SeattleGirl]

1. I understand how you feel.

That's how I felt when Edwards dropped out. It's a hard pill to swallow. :hug:

[Boz]

15. I felt that pain for the first time when Gore lost, It displaced me for days

and I seriously had concerns for my families future, then life moved on, some of my fears were realized, and I came to find that there were other ways and people to place hope in.

It will get better, she will be a stronger person for it, and if we all unite President Obama will make a difference.

[SeattleGirl]

16. Me too. And I remember sobbing in '04 when Kerry lost.

It IS hard, and it does hurt.

But in the end, the most important thing is to get back up, get behind the Dem nominee, and fight like hell to win the GE.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

29. Well said.

[helderheid]

90. Well said - I too sobbed after that. Had the wind knocked out of me.

[yardwork]

97. Oh, so did I. I remember standing in my window at 3 am sobbing after Kerry's election was stolen.

I felt it was the end of democracy. Now I being to feel some hope.

[DeeDeeNY]

130. Thanks for using the correct terminology

It is surprising how many posters here write "Gore lost" or "Kerry lost" or "Bush won". All of that has been proven false, and we should never forget it.
And you're right - it's a time for some hope now, assuming it isn't stolen again.

[roguevalley]

89. Clark-Gore-Edwards. Been there too.

[barack the house]

2. It is important regardless of result that you stay Democrat women are empowered via the party..

.. It is the one main method to overcome sexism in society working as one unit via the party. Women make up 51 percent in the Democrat party if they break away clearly they are dis-empowered as Republicans work to restrict womens rights. First woman president maybe you could be the one but mostly through the Democrat party any other way is toatlly shut down.

[Labors of Hercules]

55. first of all, we are the DEMOCRATIC party.

Second of all, I agree with you.

[lojasmo]

59. Individuals are democrats not democratics.

[Labors of Hercules]

77. Hence the word WE. And it is the Democratic party made up of individual

DEMOCRATS! WOOT!!! :kick:

[cali]

3. It is tough to watch your chosen candidate go down.

and it happens to the vast majority of us. You will feel better about it when some time elapses.

[JVS]

4. At least you have the ability to face it, unlike some around here. Don't worry...

you'll feel better eventually.

[boppers]

5. When I saw Dean's hopes die, it was brutal.

Take care of yourself.

[Justitia]

6. Just take a breather for a few days/weeks, tune out a bit & relax.

I remember my first big loss as a supporter and it sucks, I'm sorry.

Politics gets in your blood, it doesn't let up.

Next time will be better for you, I promise.

Just take a break, walk around outside a bit and let some perspective come back to you.

Believe me, you WILL feel good when the Dems retake the WH & increase our seats in Congress.

You will be bursting w/pride on Inauguration Day, truly - even if it doesn't feel like it today.

Take a break.

[PoliticalAmazon]

104. When I worked on state campaigns, at the end of the GE we would....

...go camping. No kidding. A bunch of us would be packed and ready to go, and we would bug out for 4-5 days.

It's needed to decompress and come back with a fresh perspective for plotting the next leg of the journey.

We would drink a lot, play cards, and NOT talk politics.

I think Hillary supporters would benefit from taking a break to decompress and grieve.

[RogueTrooper]

7. At least you cared

:hug:

I felt the same way when Dean dropped out last time. It's heartbreaking.

[my3boyz]

8. I'm an Obama supporter BUT I do know how you feel

I remember the feeling I had when Kerry lost the general election. I worked so hard (phone banking non-stop) to make him president that I absolutely could not function for a few days. I was completely devastated. I did not watch the cable news for over a year (and no..I'm not exaggerating!). I think it was hard because I could not understand how people could vote for Bush after they knew what he was like as president. I just could not understand how they could vote for him again. Eventually I got over it. Keep your head high. Things will eventually get better..............

[shaniqua6392]

9. People should understand that there are many out there who love her

and support her. I am sorry you are heartbroken. I went through that with John Kerry in 2004 and could not believe Bush would be President again. This time around I just kept my heart out of it. I liked them both and I did not care which one takes the nomination. Obama is going to have to figure out a way to welcome all of you into this process with him. She has millions of supporters and they will have to do something to make sure we all come together united as a party behind Obama. We must beat McCain at all costs. I wish he would take her on the ticket with him. They would make an incredible team. They are both tenacious fighters and we are really going to need a winning team. I hope you feel better soon. It is heartbreaking, but we can never forget the ultimate goal. :hug:

[The Doctor.]

10. Devastation is part of it.

If you'd been here 4 years ago, you would have seen the same thing.

Do not despair and quail, for none of us have that luxury. We must find and fight a myriad of battles that we may at any time, and at great despair win or lose.

Now that you know what is at stake, you do not have that luxury.

Take hear my dear, you will never be alone. And likely we shall never visit bloodshed to maintain our beloved nation.

Blessings.

-Dr. E

[SemiCharmedQuark]

11. I know exactly how you feel.

I was crushed when Gore "lost". I loved Kerry but I intentionally did not let myself get too attached to that, fearing a repeat of 2000. Still, it was devastating. I felt sick.

I'm sorry you feel bad. It'll take time, but I hope you will feel better.

[lligrd]

12. I've Felt That Way Many Times Over The Last Eight Years

and yet here I am today. First Gore, then Dean, then (begrudgingly) Kerry but it is hard to give up on one's country completely. I just hope the bit of hope I have gotten from Obama doesn't let me down in the GE yet again.

[davidpdx]

13. I think we all know how it feels to have a candidate we support

lose the election. I can't say I wholeheartedly supported Kerry, but I voted for him and did really want him to win. When Bush won in 2004 it sucked big time. We need to remember what that feels like. Why? Because we don't want that to happen in 2008.

I hope people realize this is over and that it's time to support the nominee of our party.

Everyone needs to dial down the rhetoric now and focus on the GE and getting a Democrat in the White House.

[DangerousRhythm]

14. Aww.

I'm sorry you're feeling bad right now. :(

[musicblind]

17. As a fellow gay boy from the Greensboro area who also loves, voted for, and supports Hillary

and is also very saddened by her loss in my home state tonight. I think I should give you this :hug:

It'll get better. When John Kerry conceded the election I was so distraught that I literally threw up. I know how you feel.

[ccharles000]

18. thank you

[BelleCarolinaPeridot]

86. As a Greensboro area girl who voted for Kerry in 04...

I was so distraught that I did'nt smile or talk to anyone for about 4 days. Guilford County loved Kerry/Edwards.

[Epiphany4z]

19. i cried all night

when kerry lost....of course there was a lot more to cry about ..I mean Bush...ugggggggg....

A least we had 2 great candidates to choose from..sure beats repubs having to settle for McSame

[Inspired]

20. It sucks, doesn't it? I was very emotional about the Edwards campaign.

I felt a lot of sadness when the primaries started and it was evident that Edwards wasn't going to win a single state. The day he dropped out I cried like a baby.

I've been able to move on but I will always have John's back. I have a feeling you will do the same for Hillary. Just give yourself some time.

[slinkerwink]

21. I remember feeling how you felt when Dean lost the primary race in 2004. It took some time for me to

accept Kerry and to vote for him. I voted because the 2004 election was far too important, and that we needed a Democrat in the White House.

[democrattotheend]

22. I know exactly how you feel

I was a Deaniac in 2004 and it was painful seeing him rise against improbable odds only to have everything come crashing down. I was afraid to get behind Obama before Iowa this year because I was afraid of going through that all over again. Honestly, 24 hours ago I thought I was going through it again, that Obama's support was collapsing the same way Dean's did. I never expected last night to end with the pundits calling Hillary's campaign over, and I understand what a shell shock it is for her supporters.

You should be proud of the effort you put into her campaign, and know that it made a difference. Be happy that she pulled it out in Indiana last night, at least.

I did not think I could be as involved again after Dean, and I wasn't in the early stages of the primary this year. But after Iowa I found myself unable to stay on the sidelines anymore. I hope that happens with you someday. I hope you will be involved in the general election, because getting Obama elected is not going to be easy and we need all hands on deck if we want to have a chance. I hope Obama will grow on you, and I hope that you will find a candidate at some point who inspires you as much as Clinton did.

[VotesForWomen]

23. why? because she lost NC? gee, surprise, surprise. we aren't getting in NC in the GE anyway, so i

it's hard to see how it matters.

[SeattleGirl]

25. Cut it out.

The OP is feeling what a lot of us have felt over the years at some point or another.

Can't you hold your tongue or something, and give someone some leeway?

[JerseygirlCT]

24. I'm sorry you're feeling so bereft.

If it helps any, it's a feeling many of us have almost gotten used to. I was non-functional four years ago after that stolen election.

That passionate support for a candidate is a good thing, though it comes at a personal cost as you're seeing.

I think Obama is the better candidate; we'll be in good hands. Now it's time to beat McCain.

[JNelson6563]

26. You have my sympathies

I was not emotionally invested in this primary, I was an Edwards supporter and have been somewhat objective since he dropped out.

I do recall well my heartbreak from 04 when Dean's campaign ended. I worked my heart out for him and donated more than I could and....well you get the picture. When the end for him happened I felt like someone had died. I felt sick, literally.

My heartfelt sympathies to all who are broken hearted today. :hug:

Julie

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

27. Yeah, I sorta felt the same way

when Robt Kennedy was shot, a bad end to his candidacy. End of a dream.

Hillary can still do good as a Senator, it's not a bad job. In terms of real policy, the two candidates are not that far apart.

Have a cry, scream at the wind, throw a chair, get stinking drunk.

Then get to work supporting the nominee. We have a tough election coming in Nov.

:hi:

[JI7]

28. i felt that way with Kerry in 2004

so i can understand. :hug:

the best advice i can give you is to focus on things other than politics. if you are able do some traveling. it doesn't have to be anything expensive like another country. even just another state or even city might be ok.

[Name removed]

30. Deleted sub-thread

Sub-thread removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[greguganus]

31. I laughed all night. n/t

[SeattleGirl]

34. And I give you two thumbs down for that.

I'm an Obama supporter, but I've been where the OP is before, and it's not fun.

If you don't think we will need the Clinton supporters for the GE, you're thinking wrong.

[Mother Of Four]

36. ...

[JVS]

43. I'm a big fan of gloating, but only that which is directed at the stiff-necked.

Kicking this poor guy when he's down is not the glorious thing a gloat should be.

[GCP]

45. Nice

:sarcasm:

[La Lioness Priyanka]

61. class. nt

[QC]

80. Another one with absolutely no class. n/t

[CabalPowered]

105. A little empathy can go a long ways

Try it sometime.

[LSK]

110. way to be a total asshole n/t

[regularguy]

120. Y'know, this OP did not deserve your snotty comment. Boo.

[Doityourself]

32. As time wears on...you'll find another candidate to love just as much .believe me..

[charlie]

33. It'll happen to you again

And again. The losing, that is. Hopefully, you'll come to reserve some of that emotional investment so it doesn't hurt as bad. Not easy, I know. I've never cried, but have been mad enough to want to bite my own ass. That sort of reaction is no good if it's strong enough to make you want to leave the game. If you quit, They win. And a whole lot more people than just you and me lose. Lose for real, not just a political race. Cry today, then get back into it tomorrow. Please. It's worth it.

[NotThisTime]

35. I'm very sorry your sad /nt

[seabeyond]

37. I defended her no matter what... this is where i am having some problem. it is

hard losing your candidate, especially the ones you worked so hard for. i still want kerry to be pres. wink. maybe listening to obama you will be able to start appreciating him too.

good luck with that.

[dbmk]

38. Given that most here have experienced the last two GEs

I think that most will have sympathy for your situation.

Take comfort in the fact that a fight is coming where you are on the absolute right side, and not just on one of two almost similar sides of an internal battle.

Pour energy into that and I am confident that you will not regret getting involved in politics.

[bread_and_roses]

39. I am really sorry for your pain. Remember, we will need you to make Obama the President we need.

I think it is worse for many Hillary supporters than it was for all of us when Kerry lost - and Gore. The versions of Gore and Kerry and Kerry who ran for President were not, to my mind, their best selves, and still I supported them because the alternative was unthinkable, and for Kerry worked for months and months ... I was literally sick when he "lost."

But Kerry was not a woman, or a Black man, and there is so much emotion vested this time in both candidates. I did not support Clinton's run from day one - and at times felt angry at other women who were supporting her in the face of what I thought and still think were clear indications that she was not the right candidate. But at the same time, as a woman, I understand the passion so many of us invested in her. I would have been very thrilled to vote for a woman candidate in my lifetime - I am not young, and to oppose Hillary has cost me some grief, too.

Take heart from this. The people who run for President are not heroes. They are fallible humans, as prone to the seductions of power, to the pressures of the powerful, as anyone else. Obama is not a hero - but because his Presidency will have been achieved on the backs and dollars of millions and millions of ordinary people, of millions of the most disenfranchised and powerless of us, millions of the young who will be impatient for real change, we can make him a hero. If we give him the Congress he needs, and hold his and their feet to the fire, we can demand of him what we really need - first honesty about the appalling state of everything from our roads to our place in the world, real constraints on the power of Corporations, real protections and support for workers and the poor, just for starters.

He won't do it without all of us screaming for it - because that's the way it is - we have to exert our power to get it done, to make it possible. So we will need you, and everyone for whom he was not the first choice, as well as those of us for whom he is - to make such a clamor that he will have no choice but to be the President we want. Your pain and disappointment will give you a sharp eye - you'll be on the alert for equivocation, for waffling, for the disingenuous and evasive, for politics as usual. We're going to need that.

[marions ghost]

95. a beautiful post....

"his presidency will have been achieved on the backs and dollars of millions and millions of ordinary people, millions of the most disenfranchised and powerless of us..."

BEYOND the important symbolism of "first woman" or "first black" president....THIS is the revolutionary thing...the creation of something resembling Democracy around here.

[shadowknows69]

40. Weather the pain and get back on the horse.. uh donkey, It's good to be involved.

No one ever said caring about a cause is easy, it's not supposed to be easy or we never learn from it.

[myrna minx]

41. I remember feeling the same way after both Gore and Kerry.

I know how much you admire and respect her. You will become stronger from this and weather this storm. :hug:

[Alcibiades]

42. We all had to defend the Clintons during their administration

Many of us got sick and tired of having to say things such as "If she doesn't care, why should we," and "Don't ask don't tell has been progress for gays in the military, just ignore all the folks they've kicked out," and "this is just the politics of personal destruction."

I had the same feelings about it when Jesse Jackson conceded, and Edwards, and during the whole sickening debacles in the general elections of 2000 and 2004. Nonetheless, I've been just as involved as ever this time, and will keep it up until November. Days like today won't get easier, but, at least for me, it's not as bad a feeling when your candidate loses in the primary as it is when our nominee loses in the general election. Except I hope that won't happen this time. :pals:

[kennetha]

44. I hate to say it

But:

(A) It's probably over for Hillary. Too bad. She would have won the White House and would make a terrific president.


(B) Obama can't win. We'll lose in a landslide! When is the last time the country elected a candidate who has already been effectively tagged already as an "effete liberal" and "culturally alien." Neither of those is at all fair. But I think they have been cemented in the minds of millions of Reagan Democrats. Add to that that our candidate has accomplished exactly zero in his very brief Senate career and despite the fact that the war is massively unpopular, we are still at war on two fronts. I can't think of a single thing that qualifies Obama to be commander in chief. If the fact that he was against the war suffices, then I'm qualified to be commander in chief.


The answer to the question when is the last time the country voted for such a candidate is, well, never.

Look at it this way. What chance is there that Obama will actually exceed Kerry's vote totals -- which were pretty high? I think zero. He's going to perform more like Dukakis.

[Window]

71. Gee, thanks for your wisdom.

:freak:

[Arugula Latte]

101. kennetha, It's funny you ignore Hillary's baggage. She was the one

candidate who could have fired the Republicans (and many Independents and Dems., for that matter) up out of their depression to come out in droves to vote against her. She would have killed our chances.

[EffieBlack]

46. I'm sorry

I have felt this way so many times. When I'm crying my eyes out over an election, my wonderful father always reminds me that politics is a pendulum and even when you lose, you always eventually swing back to the other side. After the 2004 election, he said to me, "You think THIS is bad? Imagine how we felt in '56 when Eisenhower was reelected. It looked hopeless, especially if you were black. But John Kennedy came along in 1960 and things couldn't look better. Don't ever give up."

Don't fall apart - this too shall pass. And it will get better. My dad's rarely wrong.

[Bucky]

47. I'll say again what I've said all along--Clinton has redefined the word tenacious

I've never attacked her for playing as hard as she could--I don't think she ever fought unfairly for the nomination.
People who say Clinton supporters should feel "ashamed" or embarrassed by her tactics are simply ignoring the realities of democratic (small d) politics. It's a tough sport. Her hard fought tactics were critical training for our nominee in the fall.

Have a full heart--you ran a hard race, you fought a good fight, and our jobs as Democrats (big humugous capital D) are far far from over.

[Adelante]

48. I thought I'd never believe in another candidate

After Wes Clark dropped out in 2004. I thought I was done with politics at first. But, you know what, you do move on from one candidate and keep at it, because it's that important.

You will be fine with some time to heal your wounds - really :pals:

[nichomachus]

49. Hey -- I've been backing losing candidates for over 40 years

You'll bounce back. Honest.

Just don't let it destroy your urge to fight for the candidate you think is best -- whether they're "electable" or "unelectable." You'll feel much better about yourself.

[phrigndumass]

50. Cheers to you, and to Hillary Clinton for waging a tough campaign

:toast:

You have to admire Senator Clinton for her tough campaign and the strength of her candidacy.

[Onlooker]

51. For what it's worth

I support Obama, but really like Hillary. Hillary will go down in history as perhaps the greatest American woman of this era. She brought tens of thousands of women into the political fold, reawakened feminism as a powerful force, exposed sexism (even, sadly, here at DU where the moderators did nothing to stop it), and so much more. It's unlikely she will be president, but thanks to her supporters she energized a revitalized progressive politics in the US, and I think the future for women, blacks, and other minorities will be a lot better. The most you can hope for in politics is contributing to change, and by supporting a woman, you helped change the trajectory of American politics.

[FlaGranny]

52. I know exactly how you feel

and I truly empathize. Many of my candidates have lost over the years, but the worst was Gore. Kerry was bad also. I just could not believe so many people voted to put Bush back in the White House.

I also hope I live long enough to see a woman in the White House, but I believe Obama is what we need right now. This "old lady" thinks we need youth and change at this time.

[noel711]

53. CC, hang in there...

She may have lost the battle, BUT WE DEMS cannot afford to lose the war.

It's not about Hillary, or Barack, but it IS about getting the republicans out.

As I said before, give yourselve some space, then gird your loins.
The fighting is going to become much more fierce.
We must rally the troops to go forward.

I was an Edwards supporter, and fell into a deep funk after he left.

Try to stay objective, and know... there's much more to come.

We need to be adult about this.. it's so easy to fall in love with a candidate,
to invest so much emotionally, but.... we need to stay focused.

[TBF]

54. Please remember that alot of this is the press stoking fires -

I do believe that most dems are good, well-intentioned people. That is why I have so many on my ignore list (I'm not being sarcastic) - I put them there so I wouldn't be tempted to be drawn into this game of "put the other candidate down at every opportunity just for the sake of putting them down".

I've never muched like Hillary Clinton, going way back, so I can understand how someone would feel if they never liked Barack and had to watch his inevitable rise.

Just take some time away from this forum, and look at the candidates fresh in the fall. John McCain in the white house would just be a continuation of the disaster we've lived through the last 8 years.

[crispini]

56. Here's a hug for you

:hug::loveya:

I will never forget the day after Kerry lost. I stayed in bed all day and cried. I was so upset for our future, for our country.

I know it's hard, very hard now, but I hope and trust you will heal, and get up and try again. Also consider getting involved with local politics. it's way easier on the heart.

"Fall down seven times, stand up eight."

Bless you for loving your country so much to be involved. :patriot:

[Phillycat]

57. The thing is, you'll almost never get the candidate of your dreams.

As a fellow Hillary supporter, I warmly welcome you to the Democratic party of the rest of your life. :hug: Most of the time you'll be voting for people you don't care for; sometimes you'll be voting for people you find downright repugnant. When it all gets you down, remember they're still better than the guy with the R by his name. :shrug:

[La Lioness Priyanka]

62. well stated.

[thevoiceofreason]

58. Please come join us in whipping McCain

As democrats, we all have felt this type of pain in the last ten years.

[La Lioness Priyanka]

60. i feel you. i feel very disenfranchised from the world of straight boys currently

which is what politics is.

[powergirl]

63. I completely understand

I was crushed when John Kerry lost to Bush. I couldn't watch the news for about 6 months. It is hard to become so invested in a person or a cause. I am an Obama supporter and if the tables were turned I'd feel the same way. I would have voted for Hillary in the GE - no question. But it still hurts. But we all believe in the same thing, we all want to get to the same place. So, we just need to carry each other over the finish line. :hug:

[high density]

64. I felt the same way a couple of times in 2004

First after Clark dropped out, then after Kerry lost.

It was very depressing. Not much seemed to help except time.

[crankychatter]

65. She's gonna be fine and so are you.... by the way...

I don't question your sincerity for a minute

(((((ccharles)))))

[kentuck]

66. It's bigger than Hillary...

It is American History redux. In the end, the people vote their gut feelings.

[oviedodem]

67. We need all the support we can get from dems to start getting this country back on

track.

Especially with the SCOTUS.

[Orangepeel]

68. sorry, ccharles000. I know how you feel.

I've supported Obama since Edwards dropped out, but I've had my political heart broken many a time.

:hug:

The good news is, Hillary will be fine. She's tough and she understands what politics is.

[MindMatter]

69. I feel for you and her supporters

90% of us who are behind Obama did not start there. Many started with Edwards. Many held out all hope for Gore, or Clark, or Kucinich.

I hope Hillary doesn't keep stringing her supporters along. That just isn't fair to you. She will not be the nominee. You need closure and then we need time to get you back on the team.

If it is any consolation, I can tell you without any reservations that if I had known Obama as well as I think I know him now, he would have been my first choice. He is a good man with sincere intentions, solid progressive values, a fantastic strategic mind, charisma, and guts.

I think you will be happy in the end.

[NOLALady]

70. I remember the devastation when Gore and Kerry lost.

Knowing that they did not really lose, the elections were stolen was a bitter pill.

I felt desperate and hopeless.

[tnlefty]

72. !!!

:hug: I've been there many times and somehow the local campaigns are tougher for me. Please stay involved.

[reflection]

73. My first voting experience was for Dukakis.

I feel you on that. It gets easier as you get older, for what it is worth. Or maybe I'm just jaded.

[FraDon]

74. I know how you feel. My first of these soul shaking waves was 1963,

with JFK's sudden removal from politics (and sweet breath). I was 12 years old in 1960; it was my first campaign. I volunteered after school and weekends. I thought we were changing the world. • Be strong; do stuff outside for a while. You may get over it; you'll never forget it.

[Tatiana]

75. I know it is tough, but eventually, things start to feel better.

I supported Clark in 2004, so I know how painful it is to watch who you feel is the most qualified candidate get beaten.

I just want you to know that our ultimate goal is to beat John McCain and with your help and strength, we can do that.

[Crunchy Frog]

76. I felt the same way four years ago when Clark dropped out.

I think having your heart broken is just a part of being involved in the political process. I hope that the pain passes and you stay involved. :hug:

[DarienComp]

78. It'll get better.

Trust me. I wanted Bradley in 2000 and Dean in 2004.

[Terran]

79. What will make you feel better...

is working to defeat McCain in the GE. That's really the whole point, is it not?

[Medusa]

81. At least you get it.

Now if you could convince Hillary to go, we'd all appreciate it very much.

[debbierlus]

82. It is hard to keep perspective sometimes

Neither Obama nor Hillary were my candidate of choice. I believe Kucinich was the only one who really spoke truth and represented true progressive values. Edwards was my second choice. Hillary was my third until she started her negative campaigning and started channeling Karl Rove.

The thing that has helped me get through my disappointments (and at times, avoid the temptation to stop fighting entirely) is to realize this is a LONG process. I am heartened by the small victories, the slow replacement of Washington insiders with true progressives. I only hope their character holds up in the heart of Hell & Murder Inc.

Take some time to regroup and come back when you feel stronger. And, I promise you, you will. Probably sooner then you think...

[DevonRex]

83. Oh, Charles. I am so, so sorry you're going through this. If I could

do anything to help you, I would. My eyes are tearing up just reading your post. But don't lose your hope and your strength. We need it and we need you. :)

[lumberjack_jeff]

84. Hope springs eternal.

Don't grieve for the person, push the agenda.

For me, I'm supporting Obama, but more importantly I'm supporting Congresspeople who won't settle for anything less than universal healthcare.

[backscatter712]

85. If it helps, I lost two in a row before I moved to Obama.

I started off this season rooting for Kucinich - he was the absolute best on the issues, extremely smart, and did get a few zingers in the early debates when the media actually gave him a chance to speak. But of course, all the media would talk about was his hot wife and the time he saw a UFO - they refused to give him any serious air time. So I switched to Edwards - he hung in there a bit longer, but he couldn't get any media coverage, and he dropped out.

[chieftain]

87. I've been involved in politics since 1968 and have had your

experience many times. It never is easy for those of us who care so deeply about our country to have our candidate rejected. The pain you are feeling only demonstrates the depth of your commitment. Don't let this be your last campaign, America relies on people like you.

[Tropics_Dude83]

88. Hugs to you

I know how you feel. I remember watching CNN Newsnight the night after Kerry lost. It was devastating. When they showed his concession speech, I just started to sob. It was heartbreaking.

It does get better eventually.

[EmeraldCityGrl]

91. I stayed under the covers for three days when Gore was denied the presidency

You'll get stronger...just don't get bitter.

((((Big Hug)))

[Colobo]

92. A hug for you, and please understand that there is a bright future for Hillary out there.

Senate Majority Leader, Governor of NY, Vice-President... the options are there.

[Writer]

93. Ewww. Why throw blood at the wolves?

[La Lioness Priyanka]

94. i dotn think expecting fellow dems to be classless is the best way to go

[Writer]

121. For me, it's very difficult to reach out to those who have shown so much contempt...

certainly the contempt has gone both ways, but we are on the losing side of this primary. I cannot put myself in a position where I'm suddenly accepting kindness from those who were so ugly. Being kind to someone you've been abusive to is narcissistic behavior, and I do not condone that.

Regardless, any olive branch I'd clutch would have to be one from the Obama campaign itself, not from his supporters. I think they're cut from different pieces of cloth.

[La Lioness Priyanka]

124. i think people on du specifically in gdp behave like asses. i have spoken to

obama peeps in real life and they are not insane. they want and prefer obama but they dont have this visceral hatred for hillary.

i cant believe i am saying this, but dont form your opinion about obama supporters based on these passive agressive fools in gdp

honestly most obama supporters are like gopsux

[Writer]

125. Yeah I have a couple of buddies who are Obama supporters, and they're cool.

However, most of our political discourse occurs online. It's not just here, but consider the Daily Kos and other liberal or Democratic sites in which it became very difficult to be a Clinton supporter.

I certainly don't think it's everyone, but I do think there are many fools here. Fools who believe that it's okay to pat someone on the head after they've been vicious to them. What incentive do I to accept that sudden appearance of kindness? My candidate will likely not get the nod, and now I'm supposed to work side by side with people who were asses?

If the situation were different, and Clinton was the likely nominee, I wouldn't expect Obama supporters to feel any sense of obligation to "get in line" with Clinton supporters due to the ugliness of political discussion. Why should they? It's been an ugly, hurtful primary, exposing the worst of people's basic natures. Racism. Sexism. And everything in between.

[Shakespeare]

113. With one or two exceptions, everyone on this thread has been very kind and understanding. n/t

[Writer]

122. I'm glad of that, however it's because they can afford to be kind.

I'm sorry but the well has become too poisoned for me to continue swimming in it.

[yardwork]

96. You participated in democracy! That's a wonderful thing!

I think it is wonderful and heartening that a man in Greensboro, NC supported a Democratic candidate, a woman, for president! That makes me so proud to live in North Carolina.

I'm glad that you will support the Democratic nominee. I'm proud of you for being a part of our democratic process.

[Indenturedebtor]

98. I am sorry ccharles :(

If it's any consolation at least you know that she has helped to shape the rhetoric and influence the policy through this long campaign.

Don't be afraid to get involved again now! This is probably the most important election in a generation my friend. We have to win in November or the world could quite literally end.

[Hepburn]

99. Hey, for the first GE in which I could vote for POTUS....

...that was 1972...and I voted for McGovern. Worked my butt off for him, too.

I know how you feel...it's OK...it gets better when the next big election comes along and you again find someone who you can get behind and work for and cheer on. That same old enthusiasm comes back. Look at me, OK? I have been involved in Dem politics since the time JFK ran in 1960. Tell me about how many elections I sat back and cried over, OK? But I am still here and whining and pissing and moaning and fighting like hell for who I want to win!

:hug:

[Bensthename]

100. I quit politics in 2000 and 2004

and vowed never to come back.. But it is so hard to watch the repubs get away with their bs.

[Roxy66]

102. I understand how you feel...I felt that same way the day after 2004 election

It will all be worth it when we have a Dem president. I think Hillary is going on the build a stronger (more voters) Dem party come Nov.

[Samantha]

103. It's impossible to become passionately invested in politics

without suffering the "agony of defeat." Once one goes through this, to use your word, devastation, one learns to guard one's heart. It's the same kind of hurt one feels when one has, in his or her youth, that first big romantic love disappointment. You think you will never get over it.

I did not allow myself to become emotionally involved with any political candidates this year, because the severe depression I felt (and anger) after what happened to Al Gore in 2000 scarred me. He has been my political hero for years. I tried to be objective this election and find someone who I would be proud to speak to the world on my behalf. Ultimately, I decided Barack Obama was someone I could trust to do that. I also could trust him to act on my behalf, such as in making decisions about wars and torturing prisoners. With my head, not my heart, I decided to vote for him.

Both of them could not have won. You said you voted for Barack when decision-time came for you. Take some happiness in the fact the one you decided to vote for will prevail, and know that Hillary has a political life ahead of her. You have not seen the last of her.

Good luck to you in your recovery.

Sam

[Nia Zuri]

106. I do know how you feel, I've had my heart broken many times

in politics. Unfortunately, that happens more often than not, but it's definitley not a reason to keep on tryijng and working for waht you want. Hang in there. I am an Obama supporter, but my heart does go out to you. We have to make this work.

[Dr Fate]

107. No one can say you guys didnt put up a hell of a primary fight...

Look at the bright side-You put up a hell of a fight- and you still have a good DEM to support after the smoke clears...

[hfojvt]

108. I think it is better to support policies rather than people

People can let you down, but presumably universal health care and progressive taxation are still good ideas.

[redqueen]

109. I'm sorry that you're hurting...

:hug:

[PassingFair]

111. I know how you feel, I supported Dean in the last contest.

After he was taken out, I WORKED MY ASS OFF
for Kerry.

I was a precinct delegate, and I ACTUALLY
visited every doorstep in my canvass area.

In NOVEMBER, in MICHIGAN no less!

I worked with MoveOn, they were a
TREMENDOUS get-out-the vote organization.

My county went for Kerry, and at least
I knew that I had done everything in my
power to get Democrats elected.

Disappointed TWICE!

I am STILL HERE!

[ButterflyBlood]

112. You're probably feeling worse than I was after NH

Which is saying a lot. At least after NH it was clear Obama still had a shot. Can't say the same for Hillary here. I've had even worse disappointments before (including seeing Paul Wellstone's seat go to that scum Coleman who MUST be removed this year.)

As long as you'll support Obama in the general. It's nice to see someone who can look past the infighting here and look toward the big picture for the greater good.

[LisaM]

114. This is different from Gore or Kerry vs. Bush

We were all on the same side then.

The vitriol that Obama supporters have spewed towards Hillary is without precedent within the party, to my memory at least. Although the two are very close on issues, according to them, you'd think it was people from two different parties. That sucks.

I love Hillary's drive and spirit. I have become emotionally invested in her, also. What I saw at my caucus were the people who've stuck it out through all the disappointments literally shoved out of the way by Obama supporters who in many cases (where I was) were people who just didn't have the long time party identification. And I don't see them as having it ongoing. They are candidate driven people, to whom the party is secondary. In fact, to a large degree, this is what worries me about him.

My choices almost never make it as nominee. In fact, other than Gore in 2000, I don't think I've ever supported the eventual nominee as my first choice.

[Vattel]

117. I agree

Because I like both candidates, Obama's getting the nomination doesn't bother me. What has bothered me is the fact that so many of my fellow progressives have made sites like DU a smear-fest. Whether it's accusing Obama of believing that babies are burdens or accusing Clinton of trying to undermine Obama's campaign so that she can win in 2012, the unfairness and the willingness to believe the worst without sufficient evidence has been truly depressing.

[HiFructosePronSyrup]

115. "I defended her no matter what."

Yeah, that should have been your first clue.

[rox63]

116. All of us Dems are here for you

:grouphug:

I was devastated when the 2004 election went to Bush. I sobbed and wailed for a couple of days straight. I couldn't believe the voters of this country could be so stupid. Although I support Obama, I've been careful not to invest as much of emotions into this race. Just in case the unthinkable happens, I want to try not to be as crushed as I was last time.

[ObamaKerryDem]

118. I'm an Obama supporter..

but I know exactly how it feels. I was crushed in '04, when Kerry lost. I was 18 years old and it was my very first time, voting in a Presidential election. I really thought he'd beat Bush out, after everything that happened and so needless to say, I was shocked, sickened, and heartbroken by the results. It made it even harder to accept that the final result took so long to come in, after it looked like Kerry might've gotten it for a moment there (Ohio). I stayed up all night watching it and literally cried myself to sleep that night and couldn't go to school the next day; I literally was sick to my stomach. So although I'm happy and excited that Obama is probably the nominee, I relate to your dissapointment in that sense. It IS hard. But hey, at least we're all Democrats and, ultimately, share the same common goals! :)

Hang in there.

[undeterred]

119. My first campaign was 2 years ago...

:hug:

I worked for a Congressional candidate for every spare minute for 8 months in 2006 and he lost. Even though the Democrats did really well that night, it's a bummer when you have invested so much of yourself in something and it doesn't work out.

There's no candidate like your first candidate. But I learned a lot and I will never stop working on campaigns. There are lots of good democrats out there at every level of government who need our help this fall.

Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again...

[kid a]

123. "get some cahones"

[housewolf]

126. I've been there too...

I put everything I could into Jerry Brown's presidential run in 1992, even went to the convention in NY on my own dime to volunteer. It was the first time I was interested in politics and like you, I was heartbroken when it ended.

That campaign brought me SO many gifts in so many ways... I made wonderful friendships and for probably the first time in my like, I felt that I was "where I belonged." Contributing to something larger than myself, making a difference and had a great time. All that will be with me always.

It's like love, though... it's never the same as the first time you ever fell in love.

There will always be a place in your heart where Hillary is precious. Treasure that, and the positive experiences you've had during the campaign and don't let yourself get stuck on the negative stuff. Treasure your time with her, whatever the form, 'cause it's added some wealth to who you are.

:hug: :hug: :hug:

[Yael]

127. I felt this way for 2 weeks after John Edwards suspended his campaign

I can appreciate.

:hug:

[NC_Nurse]

128. I'm so sorry. Even though I support Obama, I know how it feels to have your

candidate lose. I was bummed out for a couple of weeks when Kerry and Edwards lost.

Hang in there, it will ease with time. There will be other candidates that will inspire you. :hug: :grouphug:

[ccharles000]

129. Thanks everybody...

for the kind replies. I feel so much better.