Did you know that arguing about candidates on DU will not affect who will win the nomination?

[frazzled]

17. I think people just want an outlet to vent their opinions

It's like shouting at the TV. It does no good in the real world, but it does makes you feel better in the moment. Sometimes typing something out just helps to clarify one's own positions. Makes you think about and clearly articulate why you're for or against a candidate. I don't particularly care if anyone agrees with my opinions. Everybody's opinions are valid (though often wrong!).

I feel perfectly justified in pointing out a candidate's deficits (or strengths). Mostly I'm thinking out loud. But I'm never under the illusion that it will convince anyone to change their mind or deter them from voting their choice.

There is, however, a sort of "cool kid" factor that accumulates around Internet posts. Remember how John Edwards (very curiously) became the darling here and at Kos and other supposedly liberal sites? Inexplicable, still. Yet bombed early on. I could cite other examples of Internet heroes who flatline in the real world. Indeed, whenever I sense this site has picked its cool kid in a primary, I get pretty sure my non-cool candidate has a chance.