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Media Can't Agree on Superdelegate Count

Tally varies as superdelegates hedge their bets

By Jonas Oransky,  Newser Staff

Posted Apr 11, 2008 6:23 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Media can't settle on a superdelegate count these days because many of the mucky-mucks refuse to name a candidate, Politico reports. Current figures all have Clinton leading Obama—and she needs the votes badly—but media estimates vary from 256-225 to 221-209. “This is an art rather than a science," the New York Times’ political editor said.

Some big-name media, including NBC, refer to the campaigns for figures, relying on an honor system. But the AP tabulator won't ring up the candidates. "They’re always going to be a little higher than what our count would be," he said. Two novices have started a site, Democratic Convention Watch, relying on non-campaign sources, including readers' tips, to keep count. One said he emailed the candidates “but I’ve never heard anything back.”

Chart shows breakdown of Democratic superdelegates; 1c x 1 1/4 inches; 46.5 mm x 31.8 mm
Chart shows breakdown of Democratic superdelegates; 1c x 1 1/4 inches; 46.5 mm x 31.8 mm   (AP Photo)
Democratic presidential hopeful Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton is seen in this undated file photo.
Democratic presidential hopeful Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton is seen in this undated file photo.   (Getty Images (by Event) Individuals)
Democratic Presidential hopeful US Senator Barack Obama greets supports in this undated file photo.
Democratic Presidential hopeful US Senator Barack Obama greets supports in this undated file photo.   (Getty Images)
Hillary signs fill the seats before a Washington fundraiser in this undated file photo.
Hillary signs fill the seats before a Washington fundraiser in this undated file photo.   (Getty Images (by Event) Individuals)
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Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • Democratic presidential candidates • Democratic presidential primaries • delegates • superdelegates • Election 2008 • delegate count

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