Newzity

His campaign people say no way. Street money is an old tradition in Philadelphia where candidates pay money to the local bosses for their help on the day of election.

How much money we are talking about here? It would cost Obama about half a million. That is not really a big sum considering how much money is spent this election cycle. But the question is of principle. Obama always projected himself as a candidate for the change, someone who does not believe in the old ways of doing business. Come to Philadelphia, a city of old traditions, where the local Democratic bosses are getting the money for decades from all gubernatorial, mayoral, and presidential candidates. It is not just Philadelphia. Street money is common in big cities like Chicago, Baltimore, and Los Angeles. For the local bosses it is not a matter of principle but about respect for the traditions. Some worry that if Obama does not pay up he may lose more than a few voters to Clinton in Philadelphia, and that might ruin his chance of winning the state. But outside the city, people who are inspired by the message of change are wondering whether Obama can put his money where his mouth is. Or in this case, not put his money.

It is hard to tell what Obama would do. But for sure, Clinton would be too eager to pay the extra money for a few more votes.