Suppose the nightmare scenario actually occurs- come convention-time, Obama has a slight lead in delegates chosen by the Democratic electorate, but Clinton swings the nomination her way through the votes of superdelegates.
I completely agree that such behavior is best characterized as"stealing" the nomination- not only from Obama, but from ordinary party members, donors, and voters. I agree that such a development would be deeply unfair and provoke huge anger among important Democratic constituencies. However, I am not asking for a prediction as to what WILL happen, only what should happen. I want to know what should we do, we the progressive netroot Democrats. And, also, would it matter if Clinton tries to mitigate the theft by offering the VP slot to Obama?
Thus:
Question # 1: What do we do? Should we swallow the insult in view of the danger posed by a McCain presidency and vow to do better in 2010 and 2012? Should we vote Clinton but refuse to contribute to the party? Should we abstain from voting Clinton, but otherwise remain Democratic voters and donors? Should we finally cry "Nader is right, dammit, the Democrats are just part of the corporate duopoly"?
Question # 2: What if Clinton offers Obama the VP slot? Shoud Obama accept? And would that make any difference in your answers to question # 1?
I take no position on either question myself, because I have none. I am genuinely at a loss. However, given my pessimistic cast of mind, I anticipate that the nightmare scenario will not be averted.