Clinton the early favorite among key N. Carolina Democrats

Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton acknowledges supporters after filing papers to be on the nation’s earliest presidential primary ballot, Monday, November 9, 2015, in Concord, N.H. She faces primary opponents Sen. Bernie Sanders with 8; former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley with 2; and another 210 uncommitted.

Superdelegates are elected officials and party leaders who will attend the convention in Philadelphia and may support whichever candidate they choose regardless of IL primary results.

Five of the state Democratic Party’s 14 superdelegates said they are backing the former secretary of state at the party’s presidential nominating convention next summer.

“Given her experience in the U.S. Senate, coupled with the outstanding service she performed as secretary of state – she’s earned my support”, Archer said.

Four delegates are uncommitted. Their 712 votes at the convention make up about 30 percent of the 2,382 delegates needed for a candidate to clinch the Democratic nomination.

Clinton is able to provide the stability the country needs to advance, national committeewoman Akilah Ensley said in explaining her choice. And they point to her electability.

U.S. Rep. Andre Carson is also supporting Clinton, while Rep. Pete Visclosky didn’t respond.

Cullerton predicted the toughest challenge would come from “someone like” John Kasich, the OH governor.

“The Republicans are out of touch with where families are”, Peters said. “That doesn’t sound like (Texas senator) Ted Cruz or Donald Trump”.