Comments on: Michelle Obama: It's not about 'whose turn it is'

By: Jimmy Alani

Jimmy Alani — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 15:57:25 +0000

Obama is smart, but he is an African American. He would make the best American president for he knows the pains of being the minority race in America and at the same time he knows the shortfalls which comes with the pride of being the majority tribe in America. Had Obama been a purely white individual he could have taken the lead in the presidential elections very easily. If America could burry racisim totally I hope Obama would be given a chance to change the American politics for the better because America is what it is not out of wars but its technological supemacy and economic might. Obama with a face which may not be with a face agreeable to most Amaricans is the right person to promote this agenda. Wars will cause a lot of resentment to the American ideals. To expand the American dreams may require an unusual idividual like Obama. I am praying that all the Americans should forget the black in Obama and only focus on the white in him. To me Obama has brought in the most intelligent suggestion and I pray the he should be given the chance to implement them. Althogh he is of a black origin Obama if not in any way a war monger.

By: George Russell

George Russell — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 22:26:25 +0000

Americans,do not be sentimental about electing your president next year.
You need some one very intelligent to manage the affairs of USA.Someone to truely revive the U.S Economy which the George Bush administration messed up as a result of his war projects in the Middle east which only created wealth for him and his friends in the Reublican.
For now Obama Barack is your best product for the presidency.Clinton Hilary cannot fit it now as U.S President because she does not have the critical management ability to balance the U.S Economy and the security of USA and the rest of the world.Mark you,Hilary Clinton is not Bill Clinton.The fact that she has been in the white house does not translate that she will be a good president.
This is why Obama Barak is most suitable for the job of a president for now.
Obama will riggle U.S out from the war in the middle east which has affected the U.S Economy greatly and at the same stabilise the Economy and security of U.S.
But if the U.S presidency is for gamble then Clinton Hilary or Another person from Republican will continue from where bush stopped and the Country will be worse for it.
It is therefore became imperative that all American's should waive racism in this presidential election by electing competence and that competence is Obama Barack.

By: ansalan, rockville, MD

ansalan, rockville, MD — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 22:29:59 +0000

I couldn't agree more with Kay. It is as if Michelle Obama is jealous or something. What kind of woman purposely sabotages her husband!! His campaign managers must be imbeciles or they would muzzle her. She needs to learn to choose her words carefully, and better yet, not speak to the media. She is an embarrassment to all women.

By: Tina, Philadelphia, PA

Tina, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 04:48:25 +0000

Before Michelle opened her big mouth, I was in support of Barack Obama running for president. He sounds very intelligent and confident and he's tall. His proposed strategies just may work. I don't see how Barack Obama can stand his wife either. I'm surprised that he passively accepts her domination and he is running for president. Do we want a man for president that is so obviously whipped by his wife to make crucial decisions for the people? She seems to be so possessive. If Obama were to become president and a female citizen needed his help on any matter, then undoubtedly, Michelle would jump in with jealousy and maybe even cause problems that would cancel out any help and would make matters worse. But only if the female citizen was fairly nice looking, educated and most significantly, single. Even more so if the citizen didn't have a family background and a big brother. Michelle may very well get a warped view of her husband helping anyone and mistake it as being some sort of competition. She may even jade her husband's viewpoint with some negative garbage and poof! there goes a disaster. Michelle is a highly educated woman earning a high salary of six figures. She's also a lawyer and lawyers are supposed to know how to use words. Surely she knows what she is saying. She apparently also knows that her husband, Barack Obama will accept her denigrating remarks. She knows and everyone else knows that he is just a man. She must not have given him her permission to run for president and she is deliberately punishing him. She must think that she is his golden goose. With a great wife, Barack Obama would well become the next president. However, Michelle's remarks are way over the line of social decorum. We don't want such a woman as First Lady.

By: Hannah, Philadelphia

Hannah, Philadelphia — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 12:50:46 +0000

Whenever Michelle opens her mouth, she offends someone--if not her "stinky" husband, whom I happen to think is inspiring--then the intellegince of women whon she deems will only vote for Hillary because "she a woman". Sorry, Michelle, we've not that shallow, and you don't need to tell us whose turn it is. Your are a tiring, arrogant, passive-agressive and holier than thou nag. You think your a strong woman, but I see you as mean-spirited and insecure, espscially toward your husband. I don't know how he can stand you.

By: Jon, San Diego, CA

Jon, San Diego, CA — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 22:05:51 +0000

This is officially out of control. Americans are voting without knowing the issues once again. Why is there so much support for Barack Hussein Obama? Is it because he's a breath of fresh air (not according to his wife) and he's bringing an outsider's perception of change to Washington? We've heard that line before. No. There are a lot of democratic voters out there who can't see passed what the media is constantly feeding to them. They hear about Obama being hailed as a new, "young" voice in politics. The JFK or Lincoln of his time! But the truth is that he is alarmingly unqualified, he's misleadingly power-hungry, and ignorant on international affairs. What are his qualifications to be President of the U.S.? 1) Political science major. So he learned how to B.S. people. 2) Harvard. Forget college--Bush went to Yale, enough said. 3) Illinois State Senator. Ok. 4) U.S. Senator -- He hasn't even completed his first term yet. How does that sound? And that's it! So why does he have so much support? He and Hillary are novelty items just like Howard Dean was in 2004. Neither can be elected in a general election and their supporters must realize that or we'll be seeing a lot of Giuliani in 2009. Do the rest of us serious democrats a favor and look beyond the novelties and the media's hype that we may see the "first black president" and the "first female president" ever. Let's cast our votes based on real qualifications and genuine experience, not on who wins the Flavor of the Day award (Obama) or who gets away with the Most Evasive Politician of the Year (Hillary). If you still don't understand my advice, just pretend that your vote will impact your immediate life and the lives of your children and grandchildren. You know... think and vote like a serious adult for once. The results may surprise you.

By: J. McKinney Halfway, Mo

J. McKinney Halfway, Mo — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 13:11:32 +0000

Talking about the spouses of candidates, I have been extremely impressed by the future "first Laddie" Bill Clinton. Has anyone noticed that he has had nothing derogatory to say about the other democrats running against Hillary? He only talks about her good qualifications and what she has accomplished, not running down the others.
I for one am getting sick of the ugly and sometimes really...well, frankly, stupid comments from Edwards and Obama's wives attacking Hillary. I don't seem to ever see them saying what good things their husbands have done, only that they are "for" this and that, but not what they have actually accomplished.
And, are Barack and Michelle legally married? She is constantly referred to as Ms.? Just curious.

GO, HILLARY!

By: Murphy, Los Angeles CA

Murphy, Los Angeles CA — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 03:55:41 +0000

Michelle Obama is as brilliant and inspiring as her principled husband, and she's right on that we ought to be choosing the candidate who has the most to offer our great nation. I for one am a Feminist with a capital F and I wish with all my might that I supported Hillary. But it's Barack who has my vote because I want to see the country not just turn the page but open an entirely new book on how Washington represents us. I want to be inspired and I want to see us get past divisive politics. We can have a government that represents us, that listens to us, that tells us what's really happening, not just what the corporations want us to hear, not just what politicians think we want to hear. The notion that we should be electing someone just because they assumed they'd be next ignores the fact that the country wants and needs fundamental change. Barack Obama is the answer to what's plagued America with cynicism and Michelle knows this, has recognized it since she first watched him in action as a community organizer 20 years ago. If you don't want a black president or a woman president, don't vote for someone with black skin or ovaries, but don't think you speak for all of America and don't pretend to yourself that you're being honorable. It's time for us to be a great nation again and elect a president who has great ideas and great vision and great judgment. It's time to end our small politics. Barack knows this, Michelle knows this, and I and hundreds of thousands of other Obama supporters know this.

By: kyle mccaskill, beacon, ny

kyle mccaskill, beacon, ny — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 03:53:48 +0000

Does Experience Matter? (Clinton and JFK didn't think so)

This Video Is Showing That Obama can be president because two fmr presidents were
where he is right now, lessons prove experience makes an either worse president( nixon, bush, vp dick cheney, defense sec.rumsfeld)

By: dawn -- Gaithersburg, MD.

dawn -- Gaithersburg, MD. — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 03:27:22 +0000

The Obamas are really great at creating straw men. Who are these mythical women who support Sen. Clinton just because they feel it's a woman's turn. This comment foolishly alienates people of both genders who incline toward Sen. Clinton but still have an open mind. It's condescending, ill-informed, and not what I expect from people running on the "politics of hope." It confirms in my mind why the Obamas aren't ready for prime-time.

By: Robert M. Reidy N.Y.

Robert M. Reidy N.Y. — Sun, 16 Sep 2007 03:26:35 +0000

Remember what Lincoln said about fooling people.

Hillary has fooled you about the experience debate!!!

Barak Obama has the facts and the truth on his side, he is creatively biding time.

Don't play the fool, folks!

The winds of change are blowing and the
whispering wind says Barak... Barak Obama... Vote for change America....

By: Rich, Mansfield, MA

Rich, Mansfield, MA — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 23:13:32 +0000

"Michelle, shut up, it's not Obama's turn either… we need a Senior Leader in the "White House" not a Jr. Senator. Posted By Atlanta, Georgia : September 14, 2007 12:25 pm" +++ Excuse me ? Who are you in Atlanta, GA ? You didn't even have the courage to post your first name. I'm a guy and I would never tell anyone to "shut up", especially a woman. Have some manners please.

By: Andrew, Niagara Falls, New York

Andrew, Niagara Falls, New York — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 18:35:56 +0000

I am highly amused by the shear oprah hate that so many on these comment boards seem to have. Just imagine if she runs for office in the near future, that would surely make the GOP base fume eh?

By: Michael James - Illinois

Michael James - Illinois — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 17:06:05 +0000

Another thing!

I guess d.j from Springfield, il did not respond directly to my previous response about experience and accomplishments, but is still trying to tear down Barack Obama’s record.

Dj may continue to refuse to join team Obama, but in order that no one reading this comment log will be confused, I am responding to dj’s post that said “…Obama lucked out big time, not actually having competition in the Senate race, due to Jack Ryan's scandal…Barack won by default, so he's lucky not experienced; he's lucky, but hasn't excelled at anything; he's lucky but not anywhere near the best person for the Presidency.”

Dj, dj, dj. You must not have read my previous post about Barack’s experience. He does have experience and has excelled. You don’t get to be editor of the Harvard Law Review or to where he is today by not being excellent. I think I thoroughly addressed the experience issue already, so I won’t repeat here and, instead, move on to the concerns about luck that you raised. I will preface by saying that Barack certainly has enjoyed certain lucky breaks, but he would not be where he is today if luck was the only factor.

Barack definitely benefited from the Jack Ryan scandal and the Republicans shooting themselves in the foot by running Alan Keyes in the general election, but let’s not forget that few people thought Barack would make it out of the Democratic primary field. There were some serious people in that race.

Barack was mostly unknown outside of his State Senate district, and he was competing against State Treasurer Dan Hynes (who was the candidate favored by the Chicago Democratic Machine), Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, former Richard M. Daley aide Gerry Chico, and investment banker Blair Hull, who, as a well-connected millionaire, had very deep pockets.

Barack was endorsed by the Chicago Tribune and the Chicago Sun-Times, but he won because of the hard work he did, his leadership skills and inspiring persona. I believe there were seven candidates in that primary race, yet, instead of winning with a mere plurality, Obama won more support than the other six candidates combined, earning 52% of the vote, fueled by an overwhelming victory in Chicago and surrounding Cook County. That, my friend, is decidedly not luck. He “had the goods” first, which is why he made it to the general election and subsequently benefited from the implosion of Jack Ryan.

Even if Ryan had not dropped out of the race, there is strong evidence to suggest that Obama would have won anyway. Ryan trailed Obama in early polls, with Obama opening up a 20-point lead after the media reported that Ryan had assigned Justin Warfel, a Ryan campaign worker follow Obama's movements 24 hours a day, recording everything Obama did in public on videotape. Warfel also heckled Obama by yelling questions at him in public. The tactic backfired when many people, including Ryan's supporters, criticized this activity. It was only after this point that the lawsuit brought to light the issue of what was in Ryan’s divorce papers and the sex club allegations. That was the final nail in Ryan’s campaign coffin, but he was likely to lose even without this issue surfacing.

You can live in denial if you so choose, but the facts are the facts.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illinois_United_States_Senate_election,_2004

By: Lee, NE PA

Lee, NE PA — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 17:05:47 +0000

Michelle,

You're extremely annoying!

Go have tea with your new best friend Oprah!

By: stan pitts p.a

stan pitts p.a — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 17:02:20 +0000

America need not fear change, its good all these years the lies and media deception, America should be sick and tired of the same ole crap, the republicans if they had any moral back bone should have had bush impeached by now, he lied about the war, a good 75% of anything bush has ever said is a lie, the republicans should cower in shame that they ever nominated somelike bush to mislead the whole country and take the country down a very dangerous path, and yes we should not attack iran, too costly and only if we absolutely have to, i dont think all diplomacy has failed in this regard, a vote for thomson, or clinton is just gonna give us more of the same, i say lets give a barack a shot, and see if in his first 100 days in office we dont start to see a light at the end of the tunnel, no country really wants to go to war and risk the lives of its citizens for nothing, lets get these hostile countries to the table again, i bet all they need is someone reasonable like obama in power.

By: Michael James - Illinois

Michael James - Illinois — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 16:21:51 +0000

There have been a few comments posted about how Barack was raised, presumably trying to raise fears and doubts based on some of the slime thrown his way by political hacks or people who had been badly misinformed. If you know Barack's story, it is nothing at all to be ashamed of or to hide and the information is out there for all to know if they want. He did attend school in Indonesia, but it was a normal school, as noted in the CNN report linked and excerpted below: http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/22/obama.madrassa/ CNN dispatched Senior International Correspondent John Vause to Jakarta to investigate. He visited the Basuki school, which Obama attended from 1969 to 1971. "This is a public school. We don't focus on religion," Hardi Priyono, deputy headmaster of the Basuki school, told Vause. "In our daily lives, we try to respect religion, but we don't give preferential treatment." Vause reported he saw boys and girls dressed in neat school uniforms playing outside the school, while teachers were dressed in Western-style clothes. "I came here to Barack Obama's elementary school in Jakarta looking for what some are calling an Islamic madrassa ... like the ones that teach hate and violence in Pakistan and Afghanistan," Vause said on the "Situation Room" Monday. "I've been to those madrassas in Pakistan ... this school is nothing like that." Vause also interviewed one of Obama's Basuki classmates, Bandug Winadijanto, who claims that not a lot has changed at the school since the two men were pupils. Insight reported that Obama's political opponents believed the school promoted Wahhabism, a fundamentalist form of Islam, "and are seeking to prove it." "It's not (an) Islamic school. It's general," Winadijanto said. "There is a lot of Christians, Buddhists, also Confucian. ... So that's a mixed school." … Obama has noted in his two books, "Dreams From My Father" and "The Audacity of Hope," that he spent two years in a Muslim school and another two years in a Catholic school while living in Indonesia from age 6 to 10.

By: Carrington Ward, Queens, NY

Carrington Ward, Queens, NY — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 14:34:14 +0000

"And can this country actually elect a man, Obama, based on his qualities and overlook his race?

Here is the thing, and think about it Dems, this country voted Bush in TWICE. Get the mentality? How can we overcome that mentality that still persists, the dumbed down? "

– Amy

Good point Amy. Note that Obama has tried to answer your question with two pithy soundbytes, one cute, and one serious:

"Got Hope?"

and

"This is not who we are."

The first one I can take or leave. The last one 'made the sale' for me.

I spent a lot of time talking to voters in '04, a lot of time talking to people who would vote for Kerry, and a lot of time talking to people who would, unfortunately, vote for Bush.

When Obama says "this is not who we are," I believe he is right.

By: Checkpoint Charlie, Chappaqua, NY

Checkpoint Charlie, Chappaqua, NY — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 14:26:48 +0000

MO says don't vote based on "whose turn it is." Isn't that the basis for affirmative action; whose turn it is? With an unqualified woman (Mrs. Clinton) and an unqualified man (Mr. Obama) grabbing for the ring, whoever the Dems pick will be an affirmative action candidate. Do we really want our next president to be the affirmative action selection? www.theamericansector.com

By: Carrington Ward

Carrington Ward — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 14:21:28 +0000

"She should send a message to black voters and tell them not to cast their vote in 2008 based on the fact that he is "black" "

As a response, check out Andrew Sullivan's blog and his mention of Obama's Selma speech:

My favorite moment was a very simple one. He referred to the anniversary of the March on Selma, how he went and how he came back and someone (I don't remember who now) said to him:

"That was a great celebration of African-American history."
To which Obama said he replied:

"No, no, no, no, no. That was not a great celebration of African-American history. That was a celebration of American history."

(http://andrewsullivan.theatlantic.com/the_daily_dish/2007/05/the_reagan_of_t.html)

Black voters have sent a message to Obama that he can't take their vote for granted. This is part of the reason that Michelle is taking an increasing role - the Obama campaign have been listening to this message and working to build that political base.

But NB, the Obama campaign is under no illusions that he can win the presidency on the basis of the black vote, particularly in today's immigrant society.

It's worth playing much closer attention to the racial politics of this race: it is fascinating how much things have changed.

By: Bryant, West Carrollton, OH

Bryant, West Carrollton, OH — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 12:44:15 +0000

All of you who are going to vote for Obama, have you forgotten how he was raised?

By: jaquan, la ca

jaquan, la ca — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 07:24:13 +0000

she needs to shut up, immediately.

By: J.V.Christopher Monterey CA

J.V.Christopher Monterey CA — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 06:17:33 +0000

As of my post,there are 181 comments on this story.
A quick scan of all topics currently on today's Ticker reveals the next highest commentary on ALL topics at 20.
Everything that's going on,and everybody wants to talk about who?
Hey CNN,you may want to check this out.
A reading thru of these comments might be quite revealing.
There seems to be a high racist tilt to comments that are not typical of your site.
Some posters are either biased 'trolls' or their Freudian Slips are showing.

Lines such as;"America isn't ready for...."
are red flags.The easy test is substitute Yourself for America.

By: Imani De la Perez

Imani De la Perez — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 05:35:31 +0000

Mrs. Obama is correct and she is not implying that it's Senator Obama's turn because he is black. The junior NYS senator has less experience than he does. What value is Clinton's experience when she voted for the war?

Senator Obama demonstrated leadership and courage in opposing the war in 2002. He passed legislation to videotape police interrogations, he has co-sponsored legislation with Republican colleagues. Anyone who doesn't look at his website to read about his accomplishments is a fool. Of course that applies to all the candidates and stop allowing the media to interpret what someone said.

Ms. Obama is like a breath of fresh air, because unlike wives in the past she is more than window dressing. The same can be said of Ms. Edwards.

Senator Obama submitted his earmarks and Senator Clinton has not. He does not accept federal lobbyist or PAC money, Clinton thinks lobbyists are "real Americans'. Clinton is responsible for the outsources of jobs. (See IndiaTimes.com)

We need a leader with good judgment, values, transparency, experience and a global perspective. Senator Obama has that and his wife is certainly an asset.

By: Juanito, Washington, DC

Juanito, Washington, DC — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 05:11:45 +0000

I read Mrs Obama's comments 4 times, and I could not find anything there about race, so why are so many posters calling her a racist?

Check yourselves, people....you are showing YOUR true colors.

By: Amy, FL

Amy, FL — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 04:45:18 +0000

I'm a reasonable Democrat. I think Bill Clinton was a great president. I think the mess in Iraq is this country's most important challenge, as well as our relationship with the moderate arab countries.

I am a news/Cspan watcher on a daily basis, and am lucky enough to have my own practice where I can have the TV on during the day and hear the latest events or hearings.

I am a bit concerned about the democratic "front runners"...no ALOT concerned.

Hillary spoke loud and clear on the Senate floor just before the Senate voted to give Bush the authorization that amounted to war without a declaration. Who controls Hillary is my question. AIPAC maybe (sp)? That terrifies me.

Obama seems like a good guy and I have no reason to think otherwise.

But do either of these people have a clue how to handle the terrible mess in Iraq? I'm not feeling they do.

And, I cringe as I write it, but Democrats must be realistic...at the end of the day, is this country going to elect a woman that is hated (and shouldn't be) by a LOT of people? Woman + hated = long shot in this country.

And can this country actually elect a man, Obama, based on his qualities and overlook his race?

Here is the thing, and think about it Dems, this country voted Bush in TWICE. Get the mentality? How can we overcome that mentality that still persists, the dumbed down? Sorry to be judgmental but truth is truth.

I truly admire Hillary for her past life's work, and Obama for his vision, but can either one of these candidates win the general election?

I will work for whomever the Democratic candidate ends up being. But, for the sake of this country, we have to be smart as an electorate and make sure we support a candidate that can cross party lines.

I have not decided who will get my vote yet, but Joe Biden is more and more appealing. He is smart, knows what the hell to do with the Iraq tragedy, has ample experience in lawmaking, seems like the kinda guy I could have a beer with (hear that Bush fans? ), and is strong in character.

Just food for thought.

By: Jean

Jean — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 03:10:56 +0000

Michele said exactly the correct thing. No one should vote for anyone in an election just because it's someone's "turn". She did NOT say now it's a black man's turn. Please don't say she did. I laughed at the comment that actually John could medically become a woman in today's world. Actually the genome studies found that we ALL have had progenitors who started out in Africa AND after that the Middle East. So now John can be black and an Arab too, as can we all. Welcome to the famly of man. Obama in '08.

By: Dan, TX

Dan, TX — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 03:10:30 +0000

AAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!

By: KENNETH O , SILVER SPRING, MD

KENNETH O , SILVER SPRING, MD — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 02:39:52 +0000

I cannot believe how gullible WE all are.Since when have EXPERIENCE BECOME A CRITERIA FOR THE AMERICAN PRESIDENCY? You aquire the competency for this job with the grace thats comes with it once you are in office.What should get you in there is a vision, your ability to articulate that vision,communicate, sell IT,and get the AMERICAN PEOPLE TO OWN IT WITH YOU.What makes to you a great president is your ability to guide and lead the country to REALISE THAT VISION.
THE WAY THIS ARUGUMENT AND DEBATE IS SHAPING WE ARE ABOUT TO MAKE ANOTHER ELection fiasco.ELECTION IS SOMETHING WE SHOULD NOT TRIVIALISE, THEY HAVE CONSEQUENCES, ITS NOT A GAME AND ITS NOT AN ART. IT IS SECARED.WE SHOULD THINK AND LISTEN CLOSELY TO ALL THE CANDIDATES AND THEN MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS ABOUT WHO WE WANT OUR NEXT PRESIDENT TO BE.THANK YOU........GOD BLESS THE USA!!!

By: Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 02:03:15 +0000

Thank you Brian, TX. I couldn't stand with E and O couples. They are not enough materials for White House, not even Senators. Hillary Clinton's campaign is positive, clean, rightous, strong and powerful because The Clinton's are brilliant and experienced than rest of both party's candidates. We need Hillary Clinton to taking care of idiot Bush's mess. She is the only person can lead our country to the right direction.

By: Beth, Bremerton WA

Beth, Bremerton WA — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:52:56 +0000

To all the women here telling Michelle to "shut her mouth," is that how you live your own lives? Do you teach your daughters to keep their opinions to themselves? Do your husbands make all the decisions? What are you even doing on a news site, worrying your pretty little heads about politics? Shouldn't you be barefoot and pregnant, baking your man a pie or something? Sheesh. Sexism sure is alive and well, especially among women.

By: d.j. - springfield, il

d.j. - springfield, il — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:51:56 +0000

TRUTH UPDATE ! TRUTH UPDATE ! Barack Obama lucked out big time, not actually having competition in the Senate race, due to Jack Ryan's scandal (having taken his wife ot a strip club). Barack won by default, so he's lucky not experienced; he's lucky, but hasn't excelled at anything; he's lucky but not anywhere near the best person for the Presidency.

By: Jen, Gainesville, FL

Jen, Gainesville, FL — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:51:17 +0000

She is definately right. It is nobody's turn, but the American people's turn to think carefully who is the best candidate for the president for at least another four years. Let's read and think. If you do read, she did not say that it is Obama's turn, either. The posted criticism about her is unffair.

By: David Samuel,NY

David Samuel,NY — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:42:18 +0000

I am sick and tired of hearing of Hillary's alleged experience. Where was this so-called experience when she voted to give GW unlimited power to create the worst human disaster in modern times. Hillary is the cause of the almost four thousand dead US soldiers in Iraq and the wastage of billions of taxpayers money. She is such a liar that it is troubling. It is her so-called experience that has now caused her to return $850,000 to Mr. SHU, the crook.
Hillary is all for her self-greed,power,manipulative. But she will get the shock of her life come next year.

By: Rose Hann New London, CT

Rose Hann New London, CT — Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:41:05 +0000

Michelle Obama is correct. It is not about who's turn it is. However what eluded her was what it is about. Muchelle, it is about experience and no matter gender, the lady has it.
I appreciate Mrs. Obama to be her husbands voice so he doesn't appear nasty, but, it makes Michelle appear nasty. I think she shot herslef in the foot by not saying what it is about. Tongue tied is my guess.

By: Roz, Montgomery, Alabama

Roz, Montgomery, Alabama — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:56:14 +0000

Michelle, you are right we need to vote for the best candidate and that is Barack Obama. All the other Democratic candidates voted for the war. I am sure if one of your family members died in this war you would not be voting for any of these other candidates. Their lives goes on because they have nothing to lose but my heart goes out to all the mothers and fathers who have loss their love ones and the soldiers to come who will lose their life over this dumb war, the wrong battlefield. Enough blood has been shed, enough lives have been loss, enough bodies have been disfigured and enough money has been spent. The others candidates cannot make a wrong to a right, cannot resurrect the dead.

By: Albert Friend, Maryville TN

Albert Friend, Maryville TN — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:55:52 +0000

I agree - don't vote for Clinton just because she is a woman and don't vote for Obama because he is half white and half black (although he says little about the white half). Also be leery of voting for a candidate whose spouse doesn't know when to be quiet. Think of the problems the person will make if
he/she become the spouse of the president.

By: Michael, Woodland Hills, CA

Michael, Woodland Hills, CA — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:50:01 +0000

I haven't decided who I'm going to vote for in the primary, but Michelle Obama hasn't done or said anything to make me less inclined to support her husband. She seems like a strong, intellignet person. A good person. From what I've seen so far, America would be honored to be represented by her.

By: Lance in Monrovia, CA

Lance in Monrovia, CA — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:47:12 +0000

What Michelle Obama is getting at, is that in what is without a doubt the most important Presidential Election of this or any other time, we should judge each candidate on nothing but absolute character, judgement and experience. It should not be at all about dynasties, about labels such as "First woman" or "First Black" or anything else.

This race should be sheerly about how is actually electable and who is actually going to bring this country out of the mud its trapped in and put us back on track to lead the world with honor, and gusto toward solving the many problems that are now facing us.

Michelle Obama is obviously a woman of integrity and a person deeply concerned with the future of this country. Knowing that there is so much at stake, she's saying, basically, make the choice based on information, based on logic, based on common sense and ACTUAL electability. This is not a horse race, it is the HUMAN race that is at stake here. Literally.

Anyone that actually starts investigating the candidates will realize that Barack Obama is not the best candidate for any reason other than HE IS. He has the most experience as a legislature and has spent the most and most recent time amongst his constituency, hands on, in a variety of ways. He's passed meaningful bipartisan bills on the environment, ethics, and infrastructure while Clinton and Edwards have talked a good game but done little to really effect the change they espouse.

Obama also tells it as it is while the other candidates equivocate for fear of losing their position. Obama comes points out things that should be obvious to anyone paying attention, and so's so far more eloquently and passionately than we are used to seeing from politicians.

Michelle Obama comes across to me as a woman of integrity, honesty and completely, totally unpolished. She, like her husband, is simply speaking in human, every day terms because, refreshingly, neither one of the two Obama's has been crushed into a walking soundbite by the political Washington beltway machine that some years ago crushed Hillary Clinton.

When your words become so careful and your actions so calculated as Clinton's usually are, you are not a real human being, you are not an agent of change, you are simply an illusion of your former self.

I pray to God that Michelle and Barack Obama never get to that point. Their experience and good judgement will serve this country well for many, many generations to come.

Generations, I might add, that may never occur should any one else I see as having a legit shot at the White House gets into office.

Get off your butts if you haven't been paying attention and start figuring out these candidates yourselves. Ignore everything else I've just said if you like, but I'd be willing to BET that once you delve in, once you actually see these people, including the Obamas, for more than the thirty second soundbites the media provides...

You will be as impressed with Michelle and Barack Obama as I am.

Obama, the President of both experience and good judgement, and the President that will bring us change in the same mold as FDR, JFK, and Abraham Lincoln.

I'm not joking people, I really do believe he's a leader of that caliber, a great communicator, at long last...

a great leader.

Obama 08

By: Kim Orange County CA

Kim Orange County CA — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:38:04 +0000

I have not seen this many people from Hillary's campaign since she started paying 'em to "express opinion." Beyond Hillary's employees that are in this forum, let me simply say, MICHELLE IS ABSOLUTELY CORRECT! When we've all had an opportunity to sleep on what she said, upon reflection we will have to agree with her comment. THIS COUNTRY IS AMERICA. We are not a country of Kings, Queens or Aristocrats. WE ARE AMERICANS, ALL, and let us be sober in how we choose our President this time. IF we are charged with owing a debt, it certainly is not Hillary to whom we should be indebted. Rather, it is to each other and to our children. We should feel indebted to one another, not to Hillary because she has lived long enough and married Wm. J. Clinton and now feels that it's her turn to be President. He had a turn, now it's her turn. Wait your turn! Do you hear how silly and childish that sounds? She simply IS NOT more qualified than Barack and NO, it simply is not "her turn" to be President.

By: Mollie Hattiesburg, MS

Mollie Hattiesburg, MS — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:33:52 +0000

Oh good grief!! Mo from Chicago calling Obama a "beacon of light"???? Are you kidding me??? that is funny! And I assume you are calling Laura Bush a "stepford wife"? HARDLY her personality at all–she would have what we call here in the South,"CLASS"–which is something Michelle & Hillary are LACKING GREATLY & would never be able to attain even if they tried. The next thing we will see Michelle doing is snapping her fingers & acting an idiot w/ Oprah @ her side, and Hillary clapping...UGH!

By: Phyllis, Littleton, CO

Phyllis, Littleton, CO — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:28:26 +0000

Go Michele! I love you! What a intelligent woman. I would hope people wouldn't be so shallow as to vote for anyone based on gender or race. How ignorant that would be, but then who voted our current President in office, not once,but twice. Obama has my vote because I feel he represents integrity, intelligence, and just plain common sense. Something GWB knows nothing about. Obama08!

By: Danielle Clarke

Danielle Clarke — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:22:45 +0000

I am a woman and college educated and a vietnam veteran and Barack Obama has my vote.

I am tired of division politics. Bush blaming the left Clinton blaming the right while we all are getting BOUNCED from right to left and back to right and back left we need a UNITER like Barack who has worked across party lines with republican senator Coburn from oklahoma to give us the transparency bill which now allows us to see what politicians are doing and what lobbyist are giving to them.

GOBAMA

By: Danielle Clarke

Danielle Clarke — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:22:15 +0000

I am a woman and college educated and a vietnam veteran and Barack Obama has my vote.

I am tired of division politics. Bush blaming the left Clinton blaming the right while we all are getting BOUNCED from right to left and back to right and back left we need a UNITER like Barack who has worked across party lines with republican senator Coburn from oklahoma to give us the transpaernct bill which now allows us to see what politicians are doing and what lobbyist are giving to them.

GOBAMA

By: Ramin, london,England

Ramin, london,England — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:12:48 +0000

seems to me CNN is supporter of OSAMA.
sheam of you !

By: Mollie Hattiesburg, MS

Mollie Hattiesburg, MS — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 22:05:40 +0000

Well–how about...its not Obama's turn OR Hillary's?? I shudder to think about the horror that would befall us all if either one of these two were to get elected, Heaven forbid. People should really check Obama's background–SCARY! & Hillary..well, do I even need to waste time typing all of her problems???

By: jay

jay — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:54:17 +0000

Let's be honest here, many of you are voting for hillary because of Bill, and that is the fact. Would you vote for her if she was not a cliton?
Please give me a break.

By: EUNICE, MARYLAND, U.S.A.

EUNICE, MARYLAND, U.S.A. — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:48:33 +0000

Who is saying that his muslim background does not matter? Please be serious. Have you ever seen any muslim that condemns Osama BIN laden? They all like the terror the world is experiencing now. This guy attended a muslim school in a muslim nation and that he has never denied. Get real. He will never be President of this Christian nation. Is just like the pope going to be the President of IRAN or Saudi Arabia.

By: Ron, TX

Ron, TX — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:41:52 +0000

All this is quite interesting. As I read this thread, I notice that for the most part:

Sen. Clinton's supporters take (or manufacture) any opportunity to post hyperbolic diatribe against the Obamas.

The Obama supporters counter with positive statements.

There appears to be a stark difference between the supporters of these two candidates. Both seem to reflect the basic qualities of their candidates.

Sen. Clinton = negative
Sen. Obama = positive

I'm just sayin'.

Posted By Fonsia, Oceanside, CA : September 14, 2007 5:16 pm

I didn't really notice that before. That's a great point to notice!

By: Karen, austin, tx

Karen, austin, tx — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:35:53 +0000

I agree with Mr. Gravel from Alaska, america is getting dumber and fatter, i'm glad dumb people are too lazy to vote, it is sad that america's uncurable sickness of racism will keep a qualified candidate from being president, cancer eats from the inside out and the cancer of racism in this country will eventually kill the spirit of what america was founded on unless we as a society take a good hard look in the mirror. Barack Obama is an honest, humble, intelligent man,of good character and values he is taking a chance on his life to run for president in this country, how many of you hate mongers would die for anybody and put your family lives on the line, yes he has the most to lose of any candidates, i'm sure he has the biggest threats against him, i wouldn't do it, in the end people will always side with corruption in politics.