A Clinton Superdelegate, Going Against the Grain

By Eli Saslow
Despite mounting evidence that Sen. Barack Obama will likely win the Democrat nomination, one superdelegate decided today that Sen. Hillary Clinton's campaign still has life. Irene Stein, a 77-year-old from Ithaca, N.Y., said in a telephone interview that she would support Clinton because "she's stronger in the general election."

Stein talked extensively with supporters and representatives from both campaigns during the last year and sometimes privately favored Sen. Barack Obama, she said. Clinton impressed her by winning easily in New York's primary and by performing well in traditional swing states.

"It's a big load off my mind to decide," Stein said. "I went back and forth for a long time, but the big thing is that Clinton is in the best position to beat McCain. Clinton's the one, and she's still has an opportunity to win."

Perhaps, but her window is closing fast. Obama won commitments earlier today from five superdelegates - including Southfield, Ill., Mayor Brenda Lawrence and Michigan Education Association President Lu Battaglieri.