June 27, 2007
Posted: June 27th, 2007 10:38 AM ET

Watch Obama's comments on the Clintons.

CHICAGO (CNN) - Presidential contender Barack Obama says he's not questioning rival Hillary Clinton's qualifications, though he notes only her husband is "prepared to be president on day one."

His comments came Monday night as the two leading Democratic candidates both raised money in Chicago in the final week of second quarter fund-raising.

A reporter asked Obama about the Clinton campaign touting her experience at recent events.

"The only person who is probably prepared to be President on day one is Bill Clinton, not Hillary Clinton," Obama said. "I think we're all very qualified for the job. The question is who can inspire the nation to move beyond the politics that have bogged us down in the past."

The Illinois senator claimed his candidacy would be stronger at "bridging some of the divides that have blocked progress on health care, blocked progress on energy. That's what we're interested in - not repeating the same old fights but trying to bring about a new consensus that move this country forward."

Meanwhile, former President Clinton sent a fund-raising e-mail Tuesday for his wife's campaign that used the same "day one" phrase. In the message, Clinton wrote, "America is ready for change, and we need a president ready to lead on day one. Ready to end the war in Iraq and restore America's standing in the world." Later in the message, he said, "Hillary is the best candidate for president because she'll stand up for them - she already does every day in the Senate."

A campaign spokesman said the e-mail was pre-planned, and was "absolutely not" a response to Monday night's words. Asked about the Obama remarks, the spokesman said, "no comment."

– CNN Political Desk Managing Editor Steve Brusk

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


JUAN TELLO   January 5th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

GOD BLESS AMERICA
HILLARY CLINTON
WILL BE PRESIDENT
WITH OUT
IOWA!

JUAN CARLOS TELLO   January 5th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

GOD BLESS AMERICA
HILLARY CLINTON
WILL BE PRESIDENT
WITH OUT
IOWA!

JUAN CARLOS TELLO   January 5th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Hillary Clinton will be our next President,
she have millions of merits,
she will be the first woman in the white house as president,
She will be the simbol the American Freedom,
She is not using religion,origen,race or sexual orientation to gain votes,
she have sufficient wisdom to deal with with our economy,
she protects our social security our physical and mental health,
she love peace,she is very diplomatic and act according to her roll,
she always keep is acts in well mannners.
Hillary Clinton
Is facing the reality of our country,
she will give documents to every body working in America,
she understand that our country is a country of immigrants,
she knows how to help all the workings classes in America.

Barack Omaba he is playing a good roll in this elections
but he don't deffend the illegals aliens,
he doesn't know nothing in economy or international arms conflicts?
he is going to create same divisions among minorities?
Personally,
I believe that barack omaba
Will fit as a good vice-president for Mrs Hillar y Clinton.
Our country will finally be in white and black Democracy.

Karen Curtis, Vienna, VA   August 23rd, 2007 1:55 am ET

Ms. Venus Smith...please take a moment to pose a distinct and intelligent comment. It's women like you who make it harder for a WOMAN like Hillary to become president.

Tony, Mount Vernon, NY   July 9th, 2007 2:55 pm ET

Steve, the numbers don't gel with your point of view:
In most of the key early primary states where the candidates are spending the most time, where voters have the opportunity to get up close and personal, Hillary's lead is growing while the other leading contenders continue to lose support. (Only leading candidates shown.)
New Hampshire Primary (Suffolk University)
June 20-24: HRC 37 / Obama 19 / Edwards 9 / Richardson 9
Feb 24-28: HRC 28 / Obama 26 / Edwards 17 / Richardson 2
South Carolina Primary (ARG)
June 26-30: HRC 37 / Edwards 22 / Obama 21
May 23-26: HRC 34 / Edwards 30 / Obama 18
Nevada Caucus (Mason Dixon)
June 20-22: HRC 39 / Obama 17 / Edwards 12 / Richardson 7
April 30-May 1: HRC 37 / Edwards 13 / Obama 12 / Gore 9 / Richardson 6
In Iowa, Hillary is locked in a competitive battle.
Iowa Caucus (ARG)
June 26-30: HRC 32 / Edwards 29 / Obama 13 / Richardson 5
April 27-30: HRC 23 / Edwards 27 / Obama 19 / Richardson 5
Strategic Vision
June 22-24: Edwards 26 / Obama 21 / HRC 20 / Richardson 11
May 18-20: Edwards 29 / Obama 24 / HRC 16 / Richardson 9
Mason-Dixon June 13-16: HRC 22 / Edwards 21 / Obama 18 / Richardson 6
And in the primary states with the most delegates (Florida, New York, California, Texas, Pennsylvania and Ohio), Hillary has an overwhelming lead.
Florida - Quinnipiac June 18-25: HRC 43 / Obama 16 / Edwards 11 / Richardson 2
California - PPIC June 12-19: HRC 41 / Obama 25 / Edwards 12 / Richardson 3 http://www.ppic.org/content/pubs/survey/S_607MBS.pdf
New York - Siena June 18-21: HRC 43 / Gore 19 / Obama 11 / Edwards 9 / Richardson 1
Ohio - Quinnipiac June 18-25: HRC 40 / Edwards 12 / Gore 12 / Obama 12
Pennsylvania - Quinnipiac June 18-25: HRC 32 / Obama 18 / Gore 16 / Edwards 7
Texas - Texas Lyceum April 26-May 7: HRC 33 / Obama 21 / Gore 10 / Edwards 8 / Richardson 3

In terms of the General Election every major poll now shows Hillary leading Rudy Giuliani. In the Real Clear Politics average of recent polls, Hillary has a 2.4 percentage point lead, an improvement of 7.8 percentage points in the last three weeks.
CNN June 22-24: HRC 49 / Giuliani 48
(No tracking)
Cook/RT Strategies June 21-23: HRC 45 / Giuliani 44
June 15-17: HRC 42 / Giuliani 42
Fox June 26-27: HRC 39 / Giuliani 37 / Bloomberg 7
June 5-6: HRC 39 / Giuliani 41 / Bloomberg 7
Gallup June 4-24: HRC 50 / Giuliani 45
June 1-3: HRC 45 / Giuliani 50
Newsweek June 20-21: HRC 51 / Giuliani 44
May 2-3: HRC 49 / Giuliani 46
NBC/WSJ June 8-11: HRC 48 / Giuliani 43
March 2-5: HRC 42 / Giuliani 47
Quinnipiac June 5-11: HRC 45 / Giuliani 44
April 25-May 1: HRC 40 / Giuliani 49

Steve, Hartford CT   July 6th, 2007 12:53 pm ET

You reference Howard Dean....interesting. He had the early poll lead and the most money and he fizzled out (as you stated above). The same will happen with Hilary. But since you are a Clintonesta, I am sure you'll come up with some polling number or statistical tidbit that will somehow show me that Hilary won't fizzle out like Howard Dean did. This die hard democrat will break with the party if she is nominated. I am sure many more will follow.

tony, Mount Vernon, NY   July 3rd, 2007 2:40 pm ET

First, Hillary is still raising a record amount of money Steve. Second, remember that Howard Dean went into the last primary with the most money and he fizzled out. Obama will be no different. I respectfully disagree, money doesn't always equal votes. After every public appearence Hillary climbs in the polls. She's the common sense candidate and more and more people are recognizing that.

Steve, Hartford CT   July 2nd, 2007 3:55 pm ET

Tony – Her polling numbers might be increasing but as for her war chest, I believe Obama won that battle. I'd like to meet all these people you claim are supporting Hilary. Money turns into votes, the common person wouldn't give anyone money unless they are committed to voting for them. So if that point is true, I ask you, How is Hilary leading these "polls" if Obama is raising all the money? Maybe I'll save the tissues for the both of us because deep down, I don't think Obama or Hilary will be the Democratic nominee. The only good thing I can say about Hilary is that Bill Clinton is her "husband".

Tony, Mount Vernon, NY   July 2nd, 2007 10:24 am ET

Actuallly Steve I'm not alone. Hillary's polling numbers have steadily increased ever since she entered the race. She's now not only polling ahead of all the Democrats, but all the Republicans as well. Further, I think it's interesting that if you watched the coverage after the Howard University debates you'd have found that the African Americans interviewed went into the debate supporting Obama and left supporting Hillary. In terms of her failed attempt at health care reform, she admitted her mistake even back when she was in the White House. She's grown and learned from that experience to be able to put forth the most all-encompassing, universal plan of any of the candidates running for President. Save your tissues, you may need them when Hillary is elected President by an overwhelming majority.

Frank, NJ   June 30th, 2007 11:22 am ET

Obama's fine, but he's one to talk!
The OBAMA File: 2 yrs. in the U.S. Senate; a few in the Illinois state legislature
The CLINTON File: 7 yrs as a U.S. Senator, 8 yrs. as U.S. First Lady holding prominet positions such as chairing important legislation (health care, Adoption and Safe Families Act, ect.), opening up offices in the Justice Dept. to better American families, serving as a U.S. diplomat to nations all over the world (by herself) and as a U.S. delegate to the U.N., being appointed by Pres. Carter to Chair the National Legal Services Corporation, Chair of the Childrend's Defense Fund, Chair of the National Barr Association, Attorney for House Judiciary Comitte for Watergate and Nixon impeachment, ect., ect., ect.
Obama Schooling: Columbia, Harvard Law
Hillary Schooling: Wellseley, Yale Law, 2 yrs. Oxford in England
2004 Dem Nom Convention – Obama always praised for keynote speech – Hillary giving Nom Convention speeches for years, and that night voted to most popular Dem in the United States w/ Bill.
Obama's getting despearate – he needs to watch himself – he doesn't want to divide the party – or ruin his best political shot – running mate, and 8 years as VP to get him the White House in '16.

Steve, Hartford CT   June 29th, 2007 2:42 pm ET

Hey Tony, I guess you fail to remember the HACK job she did with Health Care back in the 90's.

Feel free to vote for Hilary, I guess the fact a presidential dynasty is in the making...seeing there has been a Bush or a Clinton in office since 1980.

I'll make sure there are plenty of tissues to catch your tears when Hilary doesn't receive the nomination. You seem to be alone in your principles.....

Tony, Mount Vernon, NY   June 28th, 2007 3:15 pm ET

Hey Steve, I'm from New York and we voted Hillary into office by an overwhelming majority both times. She's been a great Senator and even those Republicans that work against her say she's a hard work. She's made a difference because she is who she is, not because she's Bill Clinton's wife. Hillary campaigned all throughout New York both elections, even in parts of Northern NY that are Republican strongholds and she won them over too. Don't mess with Hillary, she's a smart, capable, caring leader that delivers results.

Steve, Hartford CT   June 28th, 2007 2:36 pm ET

Hey Tony from Mount Vernon, guess what, If Hilary's last name wasn't Clinton, she would NEVER have been Senator of NY. She is riding on Bill's coatails. That coat tail ride will end when she does not recieve the democratic nomination next year. GORE '08 baby!!!

Tony, Mount Vernon, NY   June 28th, 2007 10:49 am ET

Hey Matt and all you Hillary bashers, here's some of what she has done as Senator for New York.

After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Senator Clinton worked with her colleagues to secure the funds New York needed to rebuild. She fought to provide compensation to the families of the victims, grants for hard-hit businesses, and health care for front line workers at Ground Zero.

She continues to work for resources that enable New York to grow, to improve homeland security for New York and other communities, and to protect all Americans from future attacks. She has introduced legislation to provide for direct and threat-based homeland security funding to ensure that first responders and high-target communities have the resources they need.

In 2004, Senator Clinton was asked by the Department of Defense to serve as the only Senate member of the Transformation Advisory Group to the Joint Forces Command. She has visited troops in Iraq and Afghanistan; at Fort Drum in New York, home of the 10th Mountain Division; and at Walter Reed Military Hospital to learn first hand the challenges facing American combat forces. She is an original sponsor of legislation that expanded health benefits to members of the National Guard and Reserves.

In the Senate, she has continued her work for children and families by leading efforts to ensure the safety of prescription drugs for children, with legislation now included in the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act; working to strengthen the Children’s Health Insurance Program, which increased coverage for children in low income working families; and helping schools address environmental hazards.

Senator Clinton continues to work to increase access to health care. She authored legislation that has been enacted to improve recruitment and retention of nurses, to improve quality and lower the cost of prescription drugs, and to protect our food supply from bioterrorism. She sponsored legislation to increase America’s commitment against Global AIDS, and is now leading the fight for expanded use of information technology in the health care system to decrease administrative costs and reduce medical errors.

To encourage business expansion, Senator Clinton co-sponsored legislation enacted in 2004 to extend tax credits to communities in regions designated as Renewal Communities. She has sponsored conferences and business development tours throughout the state aimed at attracting new investment; introduced legislation to increase access to broadband technology in rural areas; and serves as chair of the advisory board for New Jobs for New York.

Senator Clinton has spoken clearly about the importance of protecting our constitutional rights, respecting such landmark Supreme Court decisions as Roe v. Wade. Her commitment to supporting Roe and working to reduce the number of abortions, by reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies, was hailed by the New York Times as “frank talk… (and) a promising path.”

Strongly committed to making sure that every American has the right to vote in fair, accessible and credible elections – and that every vote must be counted, Senator Clinton introduced the Count Every Vote Act of 2005, to provide a verified paper ballot for every vote cast in electronic voting machines; set a uniform standard for provisional ballots, and require the Federal Election Assistance Commission to issue standards that ensure uniform access to voting machines and election personnel in every community.

So what has Obama done again? Oh yeah, he wrote a book and made some over-hyped speeches about pretty much nothing.

Josh, Bellefontaine, OH   June 28th, 2007 12:49 am ET

You know, I really believe that the only democrat who wouldn't easily win in the general is Hilary. I think it's funny that that's who it looks like the Dems will nominate.

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky   June 28th, 2007 12:45 am ET

Obama said We all are qualified, you don't get it yet. There are 5 levels of qualification of the presidential candidates so far. Hillary is on the top level, you belong to 5th level qualification. Why? you proved yourself as inexperienced candidate. You don't need to attack others like child, you just do your campaign, we will decide and we will vote. You open your mouth, just make more mistakes. Beginners of sports or politics need an inspiration, experienced President use their WISDOM through their experiences. I couldn't believe you and Edwards talk about Universal Healthcare? Hillary made this Healthcare 14 years ago, when you were looking for the job. You are very cunning(using war vote as bait), hypocritical(you didn't answer how do you use Clinton if you are elected on the debate and now you said Clinton is only one ready), shamless(I have enough experience and I am ready) and dirty player(Anti-Hillary video and memo). Someone said "this child lost my vote" I like it. You are not even qualified as VP, you need to learn politics and world for long time, till you have the gray on your head.
If you don't a great deal in self culture you can't have the promising future. Listen to what people are talking and looking at the situation closly, you are dreaming, wake up Obama. Don't embarrass yourself anymore.

Tashni, Houston, TX   June 27th, 2007 10:06 pm ET

I think Obama's comment is being misinterpreted. The reason why he is saying that Bill would be prepared to be president on day one is clearly because Bill has the experience. Unless one has done a job before, one seldom knows what the heck to do on day one!

Mike, Farmington CT   June 27th, 2007 9:14 pm ET

All we hear about is Hilary Clinton...guess what, we still have a year until the DNC elects their nominee. In the '04 election, Howard Dean was the leader of the pack early on, just like Hilary. She will fizzle out just like Dean did in "'04.I will NEVER vote for Hilary. We have had a Bush or Clinton in office since 1980....apparently America wants a dynasty running the country.

Kristin, Hillsboro Oregon   June 27th, 2007 6:54 pm ET

Tsk, tsk Obama. I don't think your comment was racist, sexist or stupid. However, you should have included your name alongside hers when the comment was made. Careful, man. Us women are going to be the deciding vote. We are tempermental and you piss us off, we go the other way to show you how mad we really are. No-one has my vote yet because I'm still looking for congress to get something done. Why don't you all do your jobs first, then concentrate on future public life. Neither one of you has a good voting record, due to stupidity or longevity. Why don't you people work on passing a bill that says you can't run for the Presidency if you currently serve in another branch of government. You all look to grab the brass ring without getting anything done first. GET TO WORK!!!

Arlen Bradley, Grnad Prairie, Texas   June 27th, 2007 6:46 pm ET

Put your votes to better use: Vote for Dennis Miller.

Anonymous   June 27th, 2007 6:26 pm ET

Obama is spot on. The nation is so tired of red vs blue... we desperately need a LEADER that can serve as a unifier, not afraid to speak candidly on the issues.

Hillary won the liberal stronghold of NY. Obama won the much more conservative state of IL largely on his ability to respect the conversative voters and work together.

Tim, Los Angeles, CA   June 27th, 2007 5:50 pm ET

I would be more impressed with Hillary if she had shown more backbone and less political ambition when dealing with Bill, she should have dumped his sorry ass years ago. Bill made a great pres but a lousy husband. She took his crap to keep her in the WhiteHouse, not save her mariage. That's enough to prevent me from voting for her.

Now, back to my craigslist search for a cork big enough to fit Ann Coulters mouth.

C. Leddy, Vancouver, BC Canada   June 27th, 2007 5:30 pm ET

If Bill Clinton is prepared to be President, then Oprah is expecting to be first lady.

Matt Houston, Texas   June 27th, 2007 5:26 pm ET

Tony

Please enlighten me on what exactly Hillary Clinton has achieved on her own? I would love to know. So far nobody who supports her has said one good thing she will bring.

warsnottheanswer   June 27th, 2007 5:15 pm ET

yet he’s coordinated the most hastily and unprepared war in the history of this country.
- Jeff STL

I guess you skipped that history lesson on D-day. 10,000 troops lost in a single day, not to mention the disasterous practice session that was hidden from the public. And now look whats over there. What a waste...

Erik, New York   June 27th, 2007 5:15 pm ET

It is obvious that everyone writing comments on politician’s statements are truly rooting for the candidate they believe is best for the job. Every one hates or supports a candidate based off her or his beliefs. With that said I am an Obama supporter! I believe all of the anti-Obama, Clinton, Giuliani, Romney who ever… voters and media outlets jump on statements like this so people like us are driven to their sites and news stations to improve their ratings and website hits for their advertisers. It all about money! I like CNN but the way this was handled was not cool! The man clearly meant Bill Clinton has the experience and then rest of the presidential candidates including him self will have to learn it on the job! This makes senses because NONE OF THEM HAVE BEEN PRESIDENT BEFORE! He was not insulting anyone! I also like that he has a plan and has the sense to work with the right persons for the job be them Democrat or Republican. A chief executive needs to do this well in order to get things done to benifit all. This is why I like Obama. He tells the TRUTH! He doesn’t sugar coat things. He is a great role model and inspires me to contribute to the world. My respect for him as well as all of the candidates grows more. Even if he does not win (which I pray he will) he has done some real good. No matter which candidate you support, being the president of this great nation is not an easy job. I pray God bless them all! I hate it when the whole statement is not reported correctly! These tactics only divide the nation even more and like suckers we eat it up. As soon as any polititan opens their mouth all of the spin-doctors, bloggers and pun dents can wait to start typing. Are we so angry and gullible that we need to attack each other so easily? Lets not fall into the traps of the money devils and fight each other over nonsense. Are we children or adults? The only ones who are truly swiping at each other are us! Please use common senses and stop letting Wall Street and personal grips drive us apart.

Tony, Mount Vernon, NY   June 27th, 2007 5:10 pm ET

Obama's only claim to fame is that he didn't vote for the war and spoke out against it when others voted for it. After a while that gets old. Hillary and the rest of the country supported the war based on the information at that time.

Obama's comments show a complete lack of understanding as to the power Hillary has in affecting real change, which is needed. I could go on and on about what Hillary has done as a Senator, but let's talk about what this country needs to move forward. We need someone who will unite the world and restore America's reputation abroad before the current president and his pary allow what's happening in Iraq to potentially escalate to a region war and a nuclear arms race. Hillary is a known, respected individual in the world that will come into the Presidency with a lot of support abroad. She has more foreign policy exposure and acceptance then any candidate. On Day One she is the only one ready to lead, qualified to lead and respected enough to be taken seriously.

Obama will come to learn that a best-selling book, a pretty face, some nice but hallow speeches won't get you anywhere. Obama is and has always been the media's darlling, but when it comes to substance there's nothing there and the comment he made here about Hillary is proof of that.

Donna Raleigh, NC   June 27th, 2007 4:48 pm ET

Please help me understand why people would want to continue the Bush/Clinton Dynasty??? I am really tired of politics as usual. We need someone with new and fresh ideas. Someone from the people and for the people. It disgusts me when I hear about people supporting candidates that are against the war, but they supported the war initially. Obama did not support the crap that Bush fed to us. I remember him saying we need more info about Iraq before we go in. We need someone who makes decisions by getting all of the facts even if it is an uncomfortable situation.

alex   June 27th, 2007 4:30 pm ET

He is right.

We don't want to relive old fights. We want to turn the page and move forward.

Hillary is not more ready to lead than Obama.

Ms. Latta   June 27th, 2007 4:28 pm ET

This child just lost my vote.

Jeff STL   June 27th, 2007 4:20 pm ET

I love how Bush gets up there and says he wants Muslim extremists to stop using Violence and yet he's coordinated the most hastily and unprepared war in the history of this country.

DJ, Los Angeles   June 27th, 2007 4:17 pm ET

Clinton political strategy is to divide and conquer.

Bill did it in '92...I watched Hillary bash his rival Jerry Brown by calling him a sexist saying what does he expect me to do, stay home and bake cookies.

Brown attacked their political view and that was Hillary's response regarding her role a lawyer in AR.

That is in a nutshell the whole Hillary Clinton campaign strategy...just as Bill did in '92.

Avoid any real talk on the issues and just label the opponent as sexist OR simply attack the opposition party...to again avoid the issues.

Linda, Chandler AZ   June 27th, 2007 4:03 pm ET

Oh, please....his comment was neither sexist, nor an "attack". Hillary has been criticizing Obama on this issue since day one and it just won't work. Barack Obama is more than intelligent and experienced enough to lead this country. Period. Every poll out there says that HE is the only candidate that can beat any of the top republican candidates in the general election. Quit squabbling and get your facts straight or the end result will be another Republican administration. God help us if that happens.

Jim, Providence, RI   June 27th, 2007 3:59 pm ET

RightyTighty said:
"Yes please do Kathie, your account is astounding. By the way, did you graduate last year too?"

Are you afraid of her youth, her intelligence, or her facts? Your thinly vieled sarcastic drivel furthers nothing. Besides, your "facts" are all spin:

Ummm.., let see:
1)Largest tax cut in history
- This increased the class divide, giving more money to the ppl. WITH money

2)Shortest recession in history
- Largest increase in personal debt, and the minimum wage has barely kept up with inflation.

3)Low unemployment
- But the jobs that people DO have aren't paying enough to get them out of poverty.

4)Longest economic boom in history
- Greatest disparity between the Upper and Lower class since the Gilded age.

5)Highest home ownership in history
- Highest personal debt in history (see above)

6)Accountability in public schools
- I hope you aren't referring to "Every Child Left Behind"...

7)Judicial legislating dead on arrival
- Did you see the recent S.C. decisions? Free Speech, straight down the drain.

8)Budget deficit below 2%
- The deficit is the HIGHEST IT HAS EVER BEEN.

Have a good one.

LoooseyGoosey   June 27th, 2007 3:49 pm ET

Obama and Hillary both say they are for Universal HealthCare. Universal being the key word here because both also believe in open borders to all.

Lets compare that to the UK's National Healthcare System which is in complete shambles. Just zip on over to the BBC's complaint forum if you believe otherwise.

Over there politicians are deciding which drugs are reasonably cost effective, not doctors. New drugs for things like Alzheimer's, HIV, diabetes, etc, etc are severely scandalized and often not available under their NHS. Not to mention their capped liabilities on suits for even the most complete incompetence.

So Obama and Hillary, what drugs will not be allow under your UHS and will we also not be allowed to sue for reasonable damages when cost overruns the benefits of your UHS??

Shardule, Boston, MA   June 27th, 2007 3:47 pm ET

Paul, I disagree with you. Senator Obama has sponsored solid legislation. Here is a link to those pieces:

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/?&Db=d109&querybd=@FIELD(FLD003+@4((@1(Sen+Obama++Barack))+01763))

I hope you take a look. I believe that Senator Obama should not have made those potentially misinterpreted comments, but his statement that President Clinton is suitable for the presidency more so than anyone in this race right now is the truth.

Senator Obama said both him and Senator Clinton are qualified. Let's leave it at that!

Anonymous   June 27th, 2007 3:43 pm ET

I have a feeling that this guys mouth will be his un-doing.

Kim, Mpls., MN   June 27th, 2007 3:34 pm ET

Connie, Louisville, TN

We're NOT going to fix the problems of this administration by electing a polarizing President. Nothing will get done and we'll continue to be in the same mess we're already in. Change is required and only a figure that can bring us together will move this country forward.

Connie, Louisville, Tn.   June 27th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is the only candidate who is strong enough to handle the problems that will be inherited from this administration. Obama would be a great Vice-President.

Peggy, Michigan   June 27th, 2007 3:16 pm ET

Bashing President Bush can only get the Hillary Clinton and her supporters so far. The American people are tied of this already and it's just June. Lorraine is right, trying to play the sexist card is just as bad as trying to play the race card. This back and forth is going to turn off the voters and that is exactly what the Clintons want to happen.

The hateful comments by Clinton supporters regarding President Bush is just what they tried to do the ALL THOSE WOMEN, just like Frances said earlier.

The Clintons want to confuse the voters so they will try to destroy both Edwards and Obama. They will do anything to return to the White House. Remember Vince Foster and Ron Brown.

Anonymous   June 27th, 2007 3:08 pm ET

What was he thinking?! That is a sexist remark that should alienate half of America. Tsk. Tsk. His inexperience will cost him.

RightyTighty   June 27th, 2007 3:02 pm ET

And I could go on.
- Kathie, Spring, TX

Yes please do Kathie, your account is astounding. By the way, did you graduate last year too?

Kathie, Spring, TX   June 27th, 2007 2:14 pm ET

Obama is right on one hand – Bill Clinton is the only one who could stepin right now & know what to do. We had 8 years of prosperity, good foreign relations etc. As to "What Clinton did to All THOSE WOMEN"!! Jeez give me a break. Every stinkin one of them knew he was married so I don't buy into this "Poor Me crap". And as for the women of this country, his lying about a BJ did not affect me one bit. What has affected me is this idiot lying about the reasons our men & women are dying in Iraq. So you tell me – was this IDIOT worth it???

Let's see what the result of "lack of experience" buys us:

1 – Largest National Debt
2 – Normal Unemployment
3 – Above Average Foreclosures
4 – Highest Gasoline Prices
5 – Highest Ignorant High School Grad Rate – so much time is spent on testing
6 – More Scandels than Previous Admin
7 – Illegitimet War
8 – Broken Healthcare system
9 – Broken Immigration system

etc etc etc. This is what happens when you buy, lie, cheat & steal your way into office.

And I could go on.

Jim, Providence, RI   June 27th, 2007 2:08 pm ET

“I think we’re all very qualified for the job. The question is who can inspire the nation to move beyond the politics that have bogged us down in the past.”

Sorry all you who are trying to spin Obama's words into an "attack" but this DOES NOT sound like an attack to me.

Any with doubts about his SUPPOSED "lack" of experience, PLEASE watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBBcHWw6ypE
It does a pretty good job of dispelling this myth. The line at the end from Bill Clinton HIMSELF says it all!

Obama 08!

Will - Miami, FL   June 27th, 2007 1:59 pm ET

LOL – I love it when liberals/democrats rip on each other.

Obama – you go boy!

Paul, Saddle River, New Jersey   June 27th, 2007 1:58 pm ET

Hillary Clinton has a lot more experience than Obama. Obama's one of the luckiest people in this world. He had no real challenger in 2004. If he had one, he might not be where he is today. Also, how does he think he is experienced for day one? Besides from being a state senator where he probably voted to aid townships in funding needed to fill potholes, he has not accomplished anything in the US Senate. He doesn't have any laws named after him or any passed that he's responsible for.

Kim, Mpls., MN   June 27th, 2007 1:52 pm ET

Senator Obama is right and so is Lorraine, Dan, Matt, Kyle and Matthew listed above. I can't even comment on some of they others, it's too embarassing as a voter...

Lori   June 27th, 2007 1:41 pm ET

Is Hillary Clinton a Senator in New York? I think that she has worked in politics for many years.

Pete, Tarpon Springs, Fl   June 27th, 2007 1:35 pm ET

One should think before one speaks! Obviously Mr. Bush wasn't ready and still he tries to get ready just in case he ever is elected!

RightyTighty   June 27th, 2007 1:33 pm ET

Look where we are now, the result; the lack of experience and common sense.
- Eddie

Ummm.., let see:
1)Largest tax cut in history
2)Shortest recession in history
3)Low unemployment
4)Longest economic boom in history
5)Highest home ownership in history
6)Accountability in public schools
7)Judicial legislating dead on arrival
8)Budget deficit below 2%

I could do this all day. But something tells me that Eddie just can't see passed his own nose..

Wesley Stevens, Bradenton, FL   June 27th, 2007 1:25 pm ET

Senator Obama's Comments are being taken out of context. His message to the American public was simple: He has the experience to lead this country and the only Clinton that is more qualified is the former President, not the Senator!

Matthew, Berkeley, Ca   June 27th, 2007 12:41 pm ET

He only meant that because Bill has experience at being President, he is the only one that would be prepared.

I don't think that he was seriously attacking Hillary, but trying to state that Hillary Clinton, Obama, and the rest of the contenders would never be prepared until they get there. In this way he is implying that all of the experience would never prepare you for the White house. He wants people to believe that because he has the least of any of the Democratic contenders.

Vincent, New York, NY   June 27th, 2007 12:37 pm ET

Listen. Obama has no experience. Congress will wear him out like a cheap suit. Hillary is not much better but she's better than he is. Hillary voted for the war for the same reason that the majority of Americans supported it at the beginning. They were lied to by the Bush administration.I dont understand the defense of the Bush presidency or his administration. They have lied to the American people time and time again and trample all over the constitution. Where is it going to end?

DJ, Los Angeles   June 27th, 2007 12:37 pm ET

I have to agree with "...his candidacy would be stronger at “bridging some of the divides that have blocked progress on health care, blocked progress on energy. That’s what we’re interested in — not repeating the same old fights but trying to bring about a new consensus that move this country forward.”

Clinton...who would call the shots? It seems somewhat of a conflict of interests to have a married couple with both either being a current or former President. How do we know who is really calling the shots?

Obama would be more of a negotiator whereas the Clintons would be more of divider just based on the fact Republicans seem to hate them so much.

Whereas Obama would be a fresh perspective and has the track record of working together with conservative voters.

Jay, MA   June 27th, 2007 12:34 pm ET

I can't believe Mississippi is using the "God is watching you" card..my mom used that guilt trip on us when Iwas 5 years old..

Frances, Brownsville   June 27th, 2007 12:34 pm ET

Once again Obama shows he is just like all the other politicians attacking Hillary once again.

-------------
The fact that people seem to forget what the Clinton's did to ALL THOSE WOMEN is beyond me. I just don't get it at all. They ruined the lives of all those women for no reason whatsoever. Don't believe the hype this is coming around again. The lazy days of Summer is just that. No one is paying attention to this election yet, but you can count on the Fall bringing a new and different "love fest" for Mrs. Clinton and her "dear" husband.

Kyle, Columbia SC   June 27th, 2007 12:30 pm ET

Barack is right, look at it from which canidadte has experience to be president day one....BILL CLINTION!!! Why? Because he served two terms ALREADY!! That's almost a no brainer.

Kendall, Mississippi   June 27th, 2007 12:20 pm ET

God is watching the Clinton’s and He is taking notes.

Longmont, CO   June 27th, 2007 12:17 pm ET

Once again Obama shows he is just like all the other politicians attacking Hillary once again.

Venus M Smith, E.I.; Winter Springs, Florida   June 27th, 2007 12:10 pm ET

I mean no disrespect to anyone in this country, especially the men...but what I have to say is as a wife, step-mother, environmental engineer and wildlife ecologist and conservationist...she didn't get a divorce after being humilated on a global scale...what can anyone say about that? Like I said earlier, I mean no disrespect to the men of the world, fighting with us or against us...but as women of the world...I think it is time that a WOMAN run the FREE WORLD and CLEAN HOUSE for real.

Sincerely yours...so sorry if my words bring up a dominant or overbearing mother from your childhood but let's get real and have a cup of joe on the or in the ROSE GARDEN...decaf or reg?

Matt Houston Texas   June 27th, 2007 12:01 pm ET

And as I have asked in other Hillary threads...what exactly has she done?

Obama is right on when saying that she isnt ready to lead. She has either follower her husband or used his popularity to get herself elected and influence. What has she done on her own? What can she claim to be hers?

Obama worked up from teh state level to the federal level on his own. Not with the help of his wife.

Providence, RI   June 27th, 2007 11:58 am ET

Obama already began to attack Hillary, because Obama knows very well he is not as experienced as Hillary is. He is behind Hillay in every single poll by double digit! Obama can try as much as he wants, but it is us we will decide!

Lorraine, Memphis TN   June 27th, 2007 11:56 am ET

RCP, I think using the sexist card is just as wrong as using the race card. What Senator Obama said is true. Hillary Clinton's only claim to fame is her last name. Joe Biden is more experienced that ALL THESE CANDIDATES.

Senator Obama has just as much experience as Senator Hillary Clinton. What they are trying to spin is "Washington Experience."

I also wish people would STOP bashing President Bush's experience. He was Governor of Texas. That is experience! Also if I'm not mistaken, former Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfield and Vice President Dick Cheney have ALOT OF EXPERIENCE in Washington. Look at were we are now.

The problem as I see it is the constant bashing that both parties do. Hillary Clinton said this is "President Bush's War," yet she voted for the War. She continues to try and muddy the waters on her support of "President Bush's War." President Bush even though I really question some of his policies, he doesn't change his mind with the move of the polls, unlike Senator Clinton. I want the rest of his Presidency to be a success, he deserves it but more importantly we as Americans deserve it.

Senator Obama is right.

Dan (Baltimore, MD)   June 27th, 2007 11:53 am ET

I think it's time we all realize that no senator and overall no legislator is going to be prepared for the stress and long hours of our country's chief executive position. The only one with chief executive experience among the dems is Bill Richardson who's governor of New Mexico. Let's be realistic about who had executive branch experience. Obama and Clinton are both unqualified (not to mention Dodd, Biden, Kucinich, Edwards, and Gravel).

Eddie, Los Angeles, Ca   June 27th, 2007 11:27 am ET

I believe Bush was never qualified to be President since Day 1. Look where we are now, the result; the lack of experience and common sense.

RCP, Seattle, WA   June 27th, 2007 11:22 am ET

I liked Obama, but his comment that Hillary's husband is ready and the implication that she isn't seems sexist to me.

KateL, Washington DC   June 27th, 2007 10:58 am ET

America needs a leader that can do more that "inspire" us all. I don't want to just "feel good" about Washington. I want Washington to do something and unfortunately Washington is complicated and as much as all candidates say they will weed out the bureaucracy and change the politics, they can't! So, lets be pragmatic, we need candidates that know how to work with the system to produce the best possible outcomes. I don't want a candidate who needs to spend the first year of his administration learning the Washington political ropes, b/c he's only been in the district for less than one term.

doc75, fairfax, va   June 27th, 2007 10:53 am ET

I don't think either of these candidates have the ability to step into office on Day 1 and face up to their liberal MoveOn.org base with their bumper-sticker solutions and provide real solutions to problems like Islamic terrorism and immigration.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
hambypCNN: @DanDoranBlum nice. hopefully you get two big wins over Pitt in one week.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:42:32 -0800
hambypCNN: @AP_Ken_Thomas excellent duane spencer reference. let's try to work in lee scruggs, too, before the season ends.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:14:50 -0800
@wolfblitzercnn: Shocking - what's happening in Baghdad. Five terror attacks. More than 100 killed and 400 injured amid fears the violence will increase.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:08:29 -0800
hambypCNN: Kaine vs. Steele on Situation Room today in 6P hour.
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:55:02 -0800
@edhenrycnn: My colleague Dan Lothian and I show what's it's like on the road with the President - http://bit.ly/7XSU53 #cnn
Updated: Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:09:21 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP