U.S. Rep. Chris Carney chose the will of 10th District voters over the influence of lobbyists -- including his own mother.

Carney's answer was crystal-clear when he was asked months ago how he would decide who to support with his vote as a superdelegate. The congressman said he would follow the lead of his constituents in the event of a decisive victory by one of the candidates. Voters delivered the April 22 landslide for Hillary Clinton, and Thursday, Chris Carney pledged his support for the Clinton campaign.

But why did Carney wait more than two weeks to voice his support for Clinton?

Some observers suggest Carney may be lukewarm about standing behind the New York senator. "Personally, I don't think (Carney) buys into her campaign totally," Union County Democratic Party chairman Rick Thomas said.

It is likely the decision was made easier by the fact that the results of the race for the nomination are becoming clearer. Most calculations suggest Obama will have an adequate number of delegates to win. With the outcome no longer in doubt, Carney may have been free to side with his constituents without alienating party leaders.

His mother may be another matter. The congressman told The Daily Item that Mrs. Carney became an Obama fan in the days leading up to the Iowa caucuses. She has continued campaigning for the Illinois senator and urged her son to support Obama.

For naught, it seems. Carney honored his word to voters and he deserves credit for it.

Though he may want to buy an extra-large bouquet for Mother's Day.