Clinton Clings Tight to Her Lead

GLENSIDE, Pa., April 22, 2008— -- For the first time in six weeks, the Democratic race is not in the hands of the candidates, the activists, the parties or the media — but finally in the hands of the voters.

Philadelphians lined up early Tuesday morning outside Palumbo's Recreation Center at 10th and Fitzwater, mostly, it seemed, to cast votes for Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill. Obama is expected to win the city, despite the endorsement of Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., by new mayor Michael Nutter.

Obama is expected to do well with his core constituencies today: African Americans, young voters and the well-educated. Many of them said that they liked the senator's refreshing character and what they perceived to be his authenticity.

"I think what the country needs is someone who is going to inspire people," 18-year-old Becky Zarkh said today in Cheltenham. "I know a lot of young people who have been inspired by him, who go out there, get involved ... inspire other people to make a change."

Her classmate Dan Rosenfeld, said Obama "was against the war from the start ... we don't need another Clinton, we had eight years of that already."

Philadelphia furniture store entrepeneurs Jennifer and Terry O'Shea liked the fact that Obama is "new."

"He's new, everything he stands for isn't old politics," said Terry.

"I think it's time for a change," said Jennifer. "I think he's the person who's gonna do it."

Psychologist Patricia Coughlin said she thinks Obama is "the real deal."

"I love him," she said of Obama. "I just feel he's passionate, articulate, and authentic." She added that her view of Clinton "has continued to decline ... I don't know if dishonest is the right word, but she is very Machiavellian."

But some believe the demographics in the state are hardwired for a Clinton win.

"This state was ideally suited demographically for Sen. Clinton," said Terry Madonna of Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., pointing to the state's large population of Catholics, blue collar workers, and seniors.

Harriett Gottschalk of Elkins Park said, "I want to see a woman in [the White House]."

Voter Jeanne Pierce liked that Clinton is "strong."

"Part of what I really like about Hillary is she doesn't give up," said a woman in Pittsburgh. "Things have been tough in this campaign and I think she sticks to it and gets what needs to be done to get the job done."