By Pamela Genty, Senior Political Producer

Posted March 11, 2008 – I’m glad to report New York Rep. Charlie Rangel, 77, is feeling better after a bout with the flu last week.

Rangel was released from Columbia Presbyterian Hospital today where he was admitted March 4, due to severe flu symptoms.  While he’s out of the hospital, he’s not back in the office.  His staff advised me he’ll be working for home to insure he’s fully recovered before retuning to Washington.

But he’ll remain in close contact with his staff. Rangel has been representing the 15th district in New York City since 1971. He said he will return to the nations’ capitol if any critical votes arise.

Good to know he’s on the road to recovery.

Send your well wishes to the Congressman, he’s a fan of my blog. 

By Pamela Gentry, Senior Political Producer

Posted March 11, 2008 –Today when Mississippi voters head to the polls all eyes will be on the state to watch who wins and by how much.  African-American voters will most likely cast the deciding votes.   

Illinois Sen. Barack Obama leads his on ly remaining rival Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.)  for the nomination. A recent poll conducted by the American Research Group shows Obama with support among 58 percent of likely primary voters to Clinton’s 34 percent.

Former Mississippi Gov. Ray Mabus, an Obama state co-chair said, “We’ve not taking anything for granted – we’re working very hard to show why Barack Obama is the best candidate.” 

Obama is favored to win in the state.  More than one third of the state’s electorate is African-America and so far Obama has done well garnering their support in other contest securing wide margins. But this primary is also open to Republican and Independent voters, and polls show Clinton has an advantage with those voters.     

Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), co-chair with Mabus said, “We’re overwhelmed with grass root support; this is a great opportunity for Mississippi to really set the standard like other southern states; Virginia, Georgia and Alabama.”  All of those states delivered decisive victories for Obama.

Mississippi has 33 delegates and seven super delegates up for grabs. It doubtful the results of this primary will change the overall standing for the two candidates but both want a “check” in the win column.