Watching the Delegate March

It's getting close. In only a matter of a few hours polls will close in the last two states, Montana and South Dakota. Then the votes will be counted, winners announced, and most likely Barack Obama will have enough delegates in hand to take the mantle.

Because of the number of delegates with .5 vote must be factored in, the number of endorsements doesn't always equal the number of votes. But, that being said. So far today, 11 delegates have embraced Obama -- for 8.5 votes. James Clyburn, number 3 in the House leadership gave his indication yesterday and put his name up today. I saw word that Jimmy Carter will, as expected put his hat in Obama's ring. He doesn't need many more to go over the top.

From the reports I'm reading Hillary Clinton will acknowledge the number tonight, but not concede. She will likely do so in the coming days -- especially if key supporters like Ed Rendell and Ted Strickland get behind Obama. I also see that she's holding out the possibility of serving as VP -- if needed -- but unless something hard and fast can be done about Bill, I don't see how that would work. By herself, Hillary would do just fine -- indeed might make a great VP. I think a better possibility is a cabinet post -- whether Defense, Treasury, Homeland Security, or perhaps Health and Human Services. The latter has never been a high profile cabinet position, and yet if health care is going to be a central issue in the coming years, and if that is close to her heart, then what better way of raising its profile than to put one of the most high profile Democrats in charge.

I expect to update by the end of the day!