Potomac Primary: Update #3

According to Maryland Moment, Maryland Democrats are torn between whom to vote for. Were I there with these undecideds, I might offer this sage advice, best summed up in this description from one family-member-of-a-friend, who is neither a political wonk nor an avid political obsesser (like moi), but rather a regular American:

I have voted for Hillary with my pocket book and at the polls. I think she is smart as a whip, tough as nails, and absolutely tireless. Of all the things that Bush has bungled, I worry the most about foreign relations. I have more confidence in Clinton on this score. Also, although some people say she is polarizing, she has gotten high marks in the Senate for working well with both Democrats and Republicans. I have not heard much substance from the Obama campaign. We're all for Change-- even the Republicans! And George Bush ran on a platform of bringing us all together! (Not that I think Obama would be anything like Bush.) My dream is 8 years of Hillary followed by 8 years of Obama. (emphasis mine)

Or perhaps I'd say, as another dear friend, JW, has said:

ME: How did you decide on Sen. Clinton?
JW: Three things:

1. Hillary is not MY ideal woman to have in the White House, but you know what? She's an excellent start and pave the road for more progressive female candidates to be accepted and have power in this country. And God knows she's not Elizabeth Dole.

2. I'm tired of women's issues and our cares and fears not being addressed seriously in this country. For example, on Day One, would Obama or Hillary repeal the Global Gag Rule?

3. People are right to compare Obama to JFK because it's all about the image, the voice, the perceived hope. But what happens when it comes down to Day One and all that can slide away?

All in all, I believe this is good for the party, good for the country, and it's nice to feel like my vote in DC will actually matter. I know I, personally, loved seeing the candidates campaign around here. Like I said - it's like Christmas in February.