Barack Obama, moving to heal one of his party's deepest wounds, called Sunday for a full seating of the disputed Florida and Michigan delegations at the Democratic National Convention.
The Democratic National Committee had cut the states' delegations as punishment for scheduling early primaries. But Democrats recognize the importance of a motivated base in those classic battlegrounds.
The delegate count for the states was one of the most contentious issues between the Clinton and Obama campaigns as the nominating contests ground down.
Here is the text of Obama's instruction to the party, which he now controls as presumptive nominee:
August 3, 2008
Hon. Alexis Herman, Co-Chair
James Roosevelt, Jr., Co-Chair
Eliseo Roques-Arroyo, Co-Chair
Dear Credentials Committee Chairs:
In just a few weeks, our Party will convene in Denver for our National Convention. This will be an historic event that will showcase our vision for changing the direction of our country.
The delegates and alternates who gather on Monday, August 25 will reflect the talent, energy and rich diversity of our Democratic Party. The delegates will come from all 56 states and territories. As these delegates go about the important business of the Convention, I believe Party unity calls for the delegates from Florida and Michigan to be able to participate fully alongside the delegates from the other states and territories. Accordingly, I ask that the Credentials Committee, when it meets on August 24 to approve the delegates for the National Convention, pass a resolution that would entitle each delegate from Florida and Michigan to cast a full vote.
As a candidate for the nomination, I supported the DNCs efforts to establish and enforce a schedule for primaries and caucuses that would broaden the opportunity for Democrats from all regions of the country and all backgrounds and walks of life to have a meaningful voice. An unprecedented number of voters participated in our Democratic nominating process. We all owe a debt of gratitude to Governor Dean for his principled leadership during this long and challenging process.
As we prepare to come together in Denver, however, we must be and will be united in our determination to change the course of our nation. To that end, Democrats in Florida and Michigan must know that they are full partners and colleagues in our historic mission to reshape Washington and lead our country in a new direction.
With warmest personal regards,
Barack Obama
