Catharsis or Divisiveness

It was revealed this past week that the Obama and Clinton camps have reached an agreement on the Denver Democratic Convention agenda. First, Obama has agreed to both Clinton's playing a prominent role during the convention. Bill and Hillary will address the convention at prime time on back to back nights. Second, Hillary will have her name put in nomination for a roll call vote on the convention floor.

Some have argued that in order to unite the two camps and the party, after a heated and closely contested Democratic primary, that it was wise and shrewd for Obama to reach out to the Clintons and their backers. In conceding some of the convention spotlight to the Clintons, it will demonstrate respect to her primary electoral base (whom Obama desperately needs in Nov.) and allow them the opportunity to have their voices heard.

Still others argue, the convention should be about Obama and his platform being re-introduced to American voters. By caving in to the Clintons' convention demands (some say spotlight lust), he is allowing them to high jack and undermine his moment to re-ignite his campaign's momentum. The formidable Clintons, it has been stated, not so secretly have another agenda - upstage, therefore sabotage Obama's compaign. Obama's lost will be Hillary's opportunity for winning the presidential race in 2012.

We shall soon see if this will be the catharic or divisive moment - my instincts tell me the Clintons already know.