I've also read plenty of statements from Republican Clinton-haters who claimed they voted for Obama in their open primariy because they wanted to do their best to see that Senator Clinton was eliminated from the race, and they knew the Republican contest was essentially decided.

I think the "vote for Clinton" Republicans are delusional. (Perhaps the very folks who listen to Rush every day?) They think McCain can beat Clinton, though every time he is photographed next to Bush his numbers drop. With a few debates and more exposure of The McCain Platform (AKA The Bush Platform), his numbers will be down around 30%. Come November those Republicans will be wondering if they put Hillary Clinton in the Presidency.