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Clinton's Black Superdelegates Under Pressure

Congressman calls on Obama to refute 'ugly' racial smears

By Jonas Oransky,  Newser Staff

Posted Feb 29, 2008 4:25 PM CST

(Newser) – The heat on Hillary Clinton’s black superdelegates is rising, and Rep. Emanuel Cleaver has called on Barack Obama to speak out against “ugly" pressure from his supporters. The Missouri congressman said Clinton’s African-American backers are being "bludgeoned verbally" and told, “You’re not black if you’re not supporting Barack Obama," the Kansas City Star reports.

Cleaver said he doesn’t think Obama himself is to blame, "but I think he’s probably aware of it by now.” He said he hasn't been a target, but he's heard reports of threats of political retaliation and "Uncle Tom" smears. Another House member, Diane Watson of California, told Politico she's gotten threatening mail but will not switch.

Rep.- elect. Emanuel Cleaver
Rep.- elect. Emanuel Cleaver   (KRT Photos)
Rep. Diane Watson has been presured to switch her superdelegate vote from Clinton to Obama
Rep. Diane Watson has been presured to switch her superdelegate vote from Clinton to Obama   (Getty Images)
Barack Obama and John Lewis
Barack Obama and John Lewis   (Getty Images)
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