PHILADELPHIA — Hillary Rodham Clinton easily won the Pennsylvania primary Tuesday, staving off elimination and ensuring that the Democrats' fierce nominating battle would last at least another two weeks.
In a state racked by economic anxiety, Clinton rolled to victory with strong support from women, seniors and blue-collar voters -- the coalition that carried the senator from New York to wins elsewhere, including her back-to-the-wall victory last month in Ohio.
Clinton led Barack Obama 55% to 45%, with 99% of the precincts reporting.
"Some counted me out and said to drop out," an exuberant Clinton told cheering supporters who packed a hotel ballroom in downtown Philadelphia. "But the American people don't quit. And they deserve a president who doesn't quit either."
Clinton began Tuesday with a daunting task -- not just winning, but winning big enough to change the course of a contest in which she trails Obama by most significant measurements: fundraising, pledged delegates and popular vote, as well as the number of states won.
Despite her victory, the Democrats' proportional awarding of delegates made it unlikely that Clinton would significantly dent Obama's lead, though she narrowed his advantage in the popular vote.
She also gained an important talking point: her greater strength in the big states that Democrats will need to win the White House in November. Along with Pennsylvania and Ohio, Clinton can point to victories in California, New Jersey and New York.
The next big test comes May 6, when Indiana and North Carolina vote. With Obama favored in North Carolina, Indiana shapes up as a potential must-win for Clinton.
Obama returned to the Midwest even before learning of his defeat. Speaking to a subdued crowd at a basketball arena in Evansville, Ind., he congratulated Clinton for running "a terrific race" and admonished those who booed the mention of her name. "We closed the gap," said Obama, his face taut. "We rallied people of every race and age and background to the cause."
"Now it's up to you, Indiana," he added.
For Democrats eager for an end to the prolonged nominating fight, Tuesday's result was disappointingly equivocal.
"Hillary Clinton had a good night but not a great night," said Peter Fenn, a veteran Democratic strategist who is neutral in the primaries. "Tonight keeps her racing around the track. But after 150 laps in the Indianapolis 500, she won't pass Obama unless he runs out of gas. And right now she's the one who has run out of money and must win handily in the races still to come."
