Another superdelegate comes out for Obama -- Rep. Lois Capps from California. It's pretty clear at this point that they're trying to push some out today to counter any impression that the campaign is flagging because of Wright, Pennsylvania, polls, accumulated wounds.
The number today (3, so far) probably reflects how large the Wright problem is, and how anxious they are to project an unshaken image. There's been a role reversal: Hillary started out running on inevitability, and about 8 weeks ago Obama decided to try to run on inevitability. It's produced dismal results for both. It makes them risk-averse. Why is it so hard for politicians to understand that Americans like underdogs?
Capps' statement makes pretty clear why Obama has to be careful how hard he hits back at Clinton now -- his strategy puts a premium on superdelegates, more than popular votes, and some of the superdelegates have been sold on the above-politics Obama brand. Not so easy for him to go negative:
"I came to Washington 10 years ago after winning the seat my husband Walter held. In office for a mere 10 months before he died, he had lost none of the idealism and faith in American democracy that propelled his life. Quite frankly, I don't believe he ever would have and I know that I have tried to keep that fire burning. But I'll admit it's hard, when so much of what's going on around you is less about meeting our country's challenges and more about demonizing your political opponents.
"Walter once said that "we are strongest as people when we are directed by that which unites us, rather than giving into the fears, suspicions, innuendos and paranoias that divide. For years I have been waiting for a President that speaks to that vision. I believe Barack Obama may very well be that rare leader."
Update: And, there's another one for Hillary, Luisette Cabanas, Democratic vice-chair in Puerto Rico: “She has shown a firm conviction and the character needed to lead the nation. Her proposals for Puerto Rico, particularly those related to healthcare, are the best by far of any candidate in history.”