John Edwards' showing in South Carolina was respectable but he has still been unable to pull off a victory in the primaries.

Some political analysts, and many voters, are wondering why the former Senator has not withdrawn from the race. Usually, after such election results, a candidate would gracefully exit. However, this is not like other elections and there is a compelling reason for him to stay in the race: Issues.

No other candidate has come close to John Edwards in his passionate advocacy against the war, for America's poor and for rebuilding this great nation. He has been a voice of reason in the debates. As others resorted to name calling, the Senator has articulately debated the issues and has called on the other candidates to remain focused on the many issues facing America today.

For many, Edwards has become the voice of reason in the 2008 presidential campaign.

It is now possible that we will have a brokered convention as the election has become about delegates and not who carries which state. Edwards has the opportunity, with his issue-oriented campaign, to gather a significant number of delegates. If Senator Clinton and Senator Obama arrive at the convention in a neck-and-neck race, the Edwards campaign could be in a position to keep the Party focused on the issues as well as influence who will be the nominee.

Let us not forget, the purpose of the primaries is not only to select our candidate but to raise, discuss and define the issues the nominee will carry forward to the general election.

Finally, this year we have learned that anything can happen on the way to the White House. We have been treated to one surprise after another. Given that, who wouldn't stay in the race?