September 20, 2007
Posted: 03:00 PM ET

Clinton voted against a Senate measure Thursday that condemns MoveOn.org.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Senate overwhelmingly voted to formally condemn the liberal organization MoveOn.org Thursday for its recent publication of an ad questioning the credibility of the top commander in Iraq Gen. David Petraeus.

Twenty Democrats joined the Republicans in the 72-25 vote that officially repudiates the group's ad. Sen. Joe Lieberman, an Independent from Connecticut, also voted for the measure, sponsored by Texas Republican John Cornyn. (Related: Bush: MoveOn.org ad on Petraeus 'disgusting')

Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-New York, who has been criticized by several Republican presidential rivals for not formally distancing herself from the organization, voted against the measure.

As for the other 2008 Senate Democratic hopefuls, Chris Dodd of Connecticut voted against the measure while Barack Obama ofIllinois and Joe Biden of Delaware did not vote.

Republican National Committee Chairman Mike Duncan issued a statement highly critical of both Clinton and Obama shortly after the votes were cast.

“Senators Clinton and Obama need to decide whether they’re running for America, or running for MoveOn.org," he said. "If Clinton and Obama cannot bring themselves to take a stand against a vicious attack on the man leading our forces in Iraq, why should American voters believe they are capable of demonstrating the leadership we need in a Commander in Chief?”

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney was also highly critical of Clinton, saying in a statement her vote raises questions over whether she would be a "credible commander-in-chief."

"Hillary Clinton had a choice," he said. "She could stand with our troop commander in Iraq, or she could stand with the libelous left wing of her party. She chose the latter.

"The idea that she would be a credible commander-in-chief of our armed forces requires the willing suspension of disbelief," he added, a reference to Clinton's comments to Petraeus at a recent Senate Armed Service Committee hearing in which she said his upbeat assessment of conditions in Iraq required "the willing suspension of disbelief."

Meanwhile, MoveOn.org Executive Director Eli Pariser said of the vote in a statement, "No wonder public approval of Congress is tanking. They’re so out of touch with reality that they can find time to condemn an ad but they can't do what most Americans want – vote to end this war."

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Presidential Candidates • moveon.org


Mike P. Somerville, NJ   September 20th, 2007 3:32 pm ET

I am very tired of hearing how people who don’t ‘repudiate’ MoveOn.Org’s ad in the NY Times are “EEEEEVIL”. Of course, military personnel are generally above average in terms of trustworthiness. But they are not above suspicion. President Bush has repeatedly co-opted such figures (most notably, General Powell) to put forth his agenda.

While I do not believe that Gen. Petraeus lied, per se, I do believe that the pressure of one’s CinC, (his direct superior officer, in fact), is immeasurable in the effect it can have on the objectivity of one’s evaluation of circumstances. Add to that the fact that the military is in the business of “Getting things done” – not explaining why things can’t BE done – and you have a situation where objectivity is nearly impossible. And a situation where that can be – and HAS been – exploited to political gain, irrespective of US Military – or Iraqi civilian - losses.

If the General had returned and said, “We can’t DO this, Sir” – Where do you think that would have gotten him???

Ryan, New York, NY   September 20th, 2007 3:34 pm ET

Congrats, America, on reaching a new low, whereby our Congress wastes its time on votes repudiating ad campaigns.

MCD, San Francisco   September 20th, 2007 3:38 pm ET

A circus and a waste of time!!

This admin, The Repugs & The Right have been calling everybody has questioned the war traitors. Have they been sanctioned?!?

STOP WASTING TIME AND GET TO WORK!!

Luis, Miami Florida   September 20th, 2007 3:38 pm ET

The GOP lost their touch with reality… What America in majority wants it's to end this senseless WAR. What an enormous amount of wasted time. PEOPLE – FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION … remember the BILL OF RIGHTS… Mr. Duncan is JOKE!!!

Steve, Columbia, MO   September 20th, 2007 3:39 pm ET

I'm proud of what Move On is doing. They are funded by The People. Congress and the rest of our government has ceased to be "for the people" and no longer chooses to represent us. Someone has to do helps us have a voice!

Bill Charleston SC   September 20th, 2007 3:41 pm ET

This surprises anyone? Of course she voted no. Remember how the Clintons had no respect for the military while Bill was president?

The only comfort I take from a possible Hillary victory in 08 is that our military is professional enough to withstand even her as president. And for those who believe Dave Petraeus is just a Bush yes man, he would also support Hillary if she were president, because that's what soldiers do, they follow the orders of their leaders.

James,Lake City. Florida   September 20th, 2007 3:41 pm ET

Its easy to condemn the public when you don't respect them. If these government people repected US they would have listend to us instead of lied to us. I condemn our government for being full of liars, cheats, and theives.

AJ, Lawton, OK   September 20th, 2007 3:42 pm ET

I totally agree, if Congress has time to vote against an Ad, where is the vote and the outrage when it comes to IRAQ. There is something wrong with Congress and the AMERICAN SYSTEM of government. It's ironic that the democrats are also showing that they have no muscle, they are so scared that they are allowing the Republican's to pulll the punches. Who is running Congress is it the Republican or the Democrats. I think as Americans, we are allowed the freedom of Press and everything else, to say what and print what we want to. If the General is misrepresenting the facts on the grown, then he is, and most American's believe he is. Who do the CONGRESS thinks give money to Move On. ORG it is the American people, we cause we don't have any representation in congress, but we sure have all the taxation.

Jan, Nashua, NH   September 20th, 2007 3:42 pm ET

What a crack-up — the GOP is busy condemning Obama for something he didn't do!
Anyway, good for Dodd and Clinton.
I agree with Moveon. Enough with Congress condemning our right to free speech. Let's end this national nightmare instead.

Dean   September 20th, 2007 3:42 pm ET

I wish some of these politicians, Republican or Democrat, would stop saying that we don't support our troops if we don't support Bush's agenda. I am former military and my heart goes out to the military members because I hate seeing our servicemembers misused, as I feel they are being right now. Stop the disgusting war profiteering or send some politicians child over there and they would be home on the next flight.

John Thomas, Edina, MN   September 20th, 2007 3:44 pm ET

Absolutely pathetic! Here's your tax dollars at work, folks–our government voting to "condemn" our first amendment rights. Whether you agree with the ad or not, every one of you should be outraged. This goes against the very core of liberties that this country was founded on–you have the right to agree with the ad or the right to disagree with it, but government should certainly NOT be involved in condemning free speech. The very foundations that this country was founded upon are slowly disintegrating right before our eyes. It's time to wake and take our country back, and the only person that consistently votes to preserver our liberties is Ron Paul.

Moe, NY   September 20th, 2007 3:45 pm ET

Thank you Hillary for standing up for freedom of speech. I may or may not agree with the MoveOn.Org advertisement, but I certainly will fight for their right to express their opinion. As for those individuals/politicans who would deny freedom of speech just because they do not agree with what is being said…I say…MoveOn! (Pun intended).

Tony Nazar, Wilton, ME   September 20th, 2007 3:45 pm ET

Interesting.

Where was Cornyn when the Swift Boat Liars were sliming John Kerry?

Oh wait - they were Texas Republicans like Cornyn and Kerry is a Massachusetts Democrat with the temerity to challange Le Dauphin.

Can we give Texas back to Mexico?

Dean, Baltimore MD   September 20th, 2007 3:46 pm ET

I'm not for Clinton (either of them)but I wish some of these politicians, Republican or Democrat, would stop saying that we don't support our troops if we don't support Bush's agenda. I am former military and my heart goes out to the military members because I hate seeing our servicemembers misused, as I feel they are being right now. Stop the disgusting war profiteering or send some politicians child over there and the troops would be home on the next flight.

j. nulton findlay,ohio   September 20th, 2007 3:49 pm ET

i think this should show the world that the woman will in to turn her back on her husbands sex encounters would think nothing of stealing someones plan to save her time of course so she can take more time to pose for the camera…

Maurice, Washington, DC   September 20th, 2007 3:49 pm ET

Great job Hillary!!! Stick to principles and not false ideology. How is Hillary affiliated to Moveon.org? Moveon.org supports democratic causes but it's not affiliated to any candidate. Why should she apologize or chide someone for saying something she had no part in? Last time I checked our constitution provided for freedom of speech. Most of our civil rights have been taken already under this false pretence of 'patriot act' and whatever is left of it shouldn't be tampered with.

There is a right wing machine out there waiting to take down anyone who gets the democratic nomination and they will do it at all cost and the democrats will need people like Moveon.org to counter act all the false charges the republicans are going to spew. I didn't see the senate vote to condemn those who ran the swift boat attack ads in 2004 against Senator John Kerry. Senator Kerry is a decorated Vietnam war hero and not a draft dodger like President Bush. I am getting tired of this two standards in the republican party.

Great job Hillary!!! You came in and voted and let your voice be heard and you are accountable for your vote. Weak people like Obama and the others didn't show up to vote.

A, Seattle WA   September 20th, 2007 3:50 pm ET

Is the Senate actually spending time debating an ad? What is wrong with this country?

A. Harrison, Atlanta, GA   September 20th, 2007 3:57 pm ET

Meanwhile, MoveOn.org Executive Director Eli Pariser said of the vote in a statement, "No wonder public approval of Congress is tanking. They’re so out of touch with reality that they can find time to condemn an ad but they can't do what most Americans want – vote to end this war."

The truth must hurt.
I think this statement sums the thinking of the majority of Americans. Why put this in an agenda? Hillary was right to vote no because what difference would it make on public opinion of the war or her for that matter. This is just another political ploy to slander the Democratic front runners, and it's so obvious.
While we're at it let's have Texas Republican John Cornyn sponsor a measure regarding the rediculous charges of those Jena kids. Or something a little more meaningful than an ad.

patrick, Portland, or   September 20th, 2007 3:58 pm ET

waste of time, if they do this, they should condemn the swiftboat folks as well. Our government has gone amuck.

jim rice, Charlotte, NC   September 20th, 2007 4:02 pm ET

george bush is an idiot, but he has a right to his opinion. As others have said, however, wasting tax-payers' money by spending time in the Senate voting about a tv commercial is ridiculous. And far more disgusting than a private group spending private dollars to express their opinion.

steve albuquerque   September 20th, 2007 4:03 pm ET

what a waste of time

and the GOP hypocrisy shows no limits

why didn't the senate GOP condemn the swift boat attacks on Kerry in 2004?

or how about the 2002 ads against Max Cleland (a triple amputee Vet) that compared him to Saddam Hussein and Bin laden?

this is merely an attempt by the desperate GOP to deflect attention from the real issues at hand - that the Iraq war is a failure of monstrous preportions and that the GOP voted against rest for our troops

TOMMY ALBQ,NM   September 20th, 2007 4:13 pm ET

GRRRREAT MOVE HRC. I HOPE HRC NEVER SUCCUMB TO THESE HYPOCRITICAL SOBs. THESE GOP IDIOTS WILL GO THE WAY OF THE WHIGS. THEY WILL FOLLOW THE MORON PRESIDENT RIGHT OVER THE PRECIPICE. I CAN HARDLY WAIT FOR NOVEMBER 2008 TO CHEER THEIR DEMISE.

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   September 20th, 2007 4:15 pm ET

Did Congress repudiate the Swiftboat ad back in 2004? I think not!!!

What happened to freedom of speech? Even if the content of the ad were to be deemed offensive, MoveOn had every right to have it printed in any periodical of their choosing. If we start censoring people's rights to freely express their opinions, where do we stop?

David, Gilbert Arizona   September 20th, 2007 4:15 pm ET

MoveOn.org got infinitely more mileage out of their ad than they could have ever possibly imagined. Had politicians made their statements for or against and let the matter drop no one would even be talking about MoveOn.org right now.

For the Senate to take time and cast a vote regarding a newspaper ad is appalling, I don't care what the ad said. Voting on newspaper ads is not why voters elected these people to office. It's a newpaper ad people. Get past it already.

Our education system is underfunded, our bridges are collapsing, and we are mired in what some are calling an idealogic civil war but hey, there's that evil newspaper ad we need to vote on first. The Senate should be ashamed of themselves.

Brian Keefe Orlando, Fl   September 20th, 2007 4:17 pm ET

Here we are, stuck in a pathetic useless war, record debt, rising poverty and foreclosures and a a joke for a Health Care system!!! But, our PUBS, find their biggest "concern" in that of a MoveOn.org add…HELLO!!!!

Ryan, New York, NY   September 20th, 2007 4:19 pm ET

Can someone please let me know when Petraeus achieved such a level of infallibility that any question or condemnation of anything about him is an attack on the entire military system and every component of it, including the common soldiers?

Also, while I expected all of the Republicans and Lieberman to support the vote, I'm appalled that 20 Democrats voted in favor of codemning an ad campaign, just on 1st Amendment principles alone.

It sets a bad precedent and can we now expect Senate votes on every controversial ad campaign? Next up, the anti-smoking ad campaign saying that if you smoke, you'll get gangrene for being completely sensationalist and misleading, thereby undermining the basic message.

Jenny, Rio Vista CA   September 20th, 2007 4:23 pm ET

No wonder Congress has just an 11% favorable rating. There are troops dying in Iraq because of Bush and his cronies and all they can do is debate Moveon.org.
They vote FOR condeming Moveon.org and then turn around and vote against giving the troops valuable time at home. WHO SUPPORTS THE TROOPS??? You Republican hypocrits…. you make me ill.

Tom - Dedham, Mass   September 20th, 2007 4:31 pm ET

Twenty Democrats went along with this?

There is hope for politicians that are willing to reach across the aisle.

This wasn't fellow veterans attacking fellow veterans over a beef from 30 years previous, this was a highly paid radical group attacking a Generals credibility (BEFORE he even spoke) while he is currently in charge of our men and women who are fighting a war.

This isn't cutting off free speech, but just repudiating the vile words and methods that were used basically saying he betrayed his country while wearing the military uniform based on NO FACTS.

I applaud the 20 Democrats who saw it for what it was.

sonny c. v.p.,la.   September 20th, 2007 4:32 pm ET

The Right Wing M.O. is to create straw men to atack as a distraction to their failed policies. To effectively fight the Right Wingers, Move- On needs to fight smarter not harder. They can actually win over moderates if they avoid walking into sucker punches. DON'T GIVE RIGHT WINGERS EASY SHOTS AT YOU. Become a messanger that's difficult to destroy & your message will ring louder.

RJ, AZ   September 20th, 2007 4:35 pm ET

I'm so glad that our lawmakers have managed to come up with newer and better ways to waste everyone's time and the six figures they "earn." Good job guys and gals. Vote yourself another raise while you're at it!

Jennifer, Savannah, Georgia   September 20th, 2007 4:36 pm ET

As a sometime supporter of Moveon.org, I was not happy with the ad regarding General Petraeus. I think it's awful to suggest he's betraying his country. The Commander-in-Chief sets policy, not the General. He's just doing his job.
However, since when is it the business of Congress to condemn the speech of its citizens? That's downright shameful. Hillary made the right choice to vote no.

Dora, Port Washington, NY   September 20th, 2007 4:37 pm ET

The problem that I have is not whether you agree with the war or not - it's that we are, currently, at war and we should not be aiding our enemies with hate speach about our military officers. I just think it's awful how the liberal MoveOn organization so shamefully make such disgusting comments. I'm all for freedom of speech but this is pure stupidity and they should handle their disagreements with this administration in a much better constructive manner. Let's all stand behind our military and get the job done without anyone whining and name calling. ENOUGH!!!!!!! AMERICA IS SICK OF IT.

Bruno Forlani, Chicago, IL   September 20th, 2007 4:48 pm ET

Good for Clinton and GOOOOOOD for the American People!!!

Prime example of our BROKEN GOVERNMENT.

Can some one please (yes you CONGRESS) explain to me how is it that you are more worried about moveon.org and are ready to infringe in their civil rights, just because they are expressing their views, which by the way a lot of Americans agree with?

You have more important things to do, like STOP FUNDING THE ILLEGAL WAR IN IRAQ!!!!!

Why don't you get to work on the important DOMESTIC issues in these times of EXTREME CRISIS?

STOP wasting our tax dollars in your censoring moveon.org, just because YOU don't like what they have to say!

Or does President Bush and his bullies have placed the "FEAR" in you too?

Ed,Ellenville,New York   September 20th, 2007 4:48 pm ET

Those twenty democrats are going to have some explaining and apologizing to do.Move-on did it's homework and for that they will be exonerated of any accusations to the contrary.All of these numb-skulls will regret voting to condemn a truthful,albeit hurtful,ad campaign.The gloves are off and Sherman's march to the sea is getting closer.

Shelly, Orange County, CA   September 20th, 2007 4:48 pm ET

As the very proud sister of a very proud Marine serving in Iraq, I have to say I am an equally proud member of MoveOn.org. MoveOn may not represent Republican right-wingers, but it certainly represents proud citizens like me who LOVE this country and our soldiers! Congress: stop waisting time and fix this mess!

GoVets Madison WI   September 20th, 2007 4:50 pm ET

MoveOn.org just picked up another member. Wake up congress!!!!! Were paying you to do the work of the American people.

b-rocks New York, NY   September 20th, 2007 4:51 pm ET

Hillary Clinton voted for George Bush's war in Iraq. Pure and simple.

It was the wrong vote using the wrong judgement.

She may be trying to make up for it now, but opposing a non-binding resolution about a newspaper ad is not nearly enough.

rand, Nevada   September 20th, 2007 4:59 pm ET

Whatever happened to freedom of speech and of the press without fear of persecution? Once again, this administration is avoiding what really affects us all by making an issue out of something that is clearly within our constitutional rights. Shame on Congress for playing into this. I am fearful for our future.

Matthew W. Combest   September 20th, 2007 5:04 pm ET

A vote to Condem movon.org - what exactly does this mean and why is the Seante wasting time voting on this while other important matters are outstanding??

Vox Populi   September 20th, 2007 5:04 pm ET

MoveOn is a gaggle of fascist brownshirts whose core purpose is to disrupt the internal affairs of the United States. They should be condemned and exposed.

B Mcm   September 20th, 2007 5:04 pm ET

The republicans need to remove ann coulter–the she devil and then maybe the dems will talk. Either way your infringing on freedom of speech.

Kevin, Coral Springs, FL   September 20th, 2007 5:05 pm ET

What a cop-out for Obama not to vote, what was he doing sleeping? Wouldn't have expected anything less from Biden, but Biden's standard is not something I would have thought Obama would want to aspire to.

Grovin, Darnassus, IL   September 20th, 2007 5:11 pm ET

Senators now think it's "the people's business" for them to spend time condemning advertisements by private groups? (A) Sounds like an assault on freedom of speech to me; (B) I thought senators had enough to worry about.

I personally don't give a flying fediddle about MoveOn, but they've got a right to say what they want just like anyone else.

Patrick, Bartlesville Oklahoma   September 20th, 2007 5:13 pm ET

Voting to condemn this ad has nothing to do with voting to get rid of free speech, or to support the president. This vote was to condemn a piece of hate speech that attacks one of our general who is just taking orders. I really am dissapointed in all the senators who voted no or who refused to vote on the issue. At least Mrs. Clinton has the backbone to show how she really feels as sick as her position might be. Obama not casting a vote is just plain spineless.

Veronica, Stamford, CT   September 20th, 2007 5:16 pm ET

Posted By Tom - Dedham, Mass : September 20, 2007 4:31 pm

Not that I exactly approved of what MoveOn did but I got their point, however, polls conducted after Petraeus' congressional appearance and Bush's primetime speech, show that most people still think we need to pull the troops asap and still think Petraeus wasn't being fully honest and that Bush had everything to do with what he presented Congress. Saying is one thing, doing is an entirely different story.

I do find it rather amusing that you can justify the Swift Boat ads, yet condemn the MoveOn ad as "treasonous and vile". I'm willing to bet that if the shoe were on the proverbial other foot, it wouldn't be apples and oranges to you anymore.

Carrol Ann, Newport, Maine   September 20th, 2007 5:17 pm ET

So where were all these democrats and republicans when John Kerry was getting blown out of the water???? Suck it up Petraeus, and leave MoveOn.org alone! It's called FREEDOM OF SPEECH. You may not always like it, but that's the point, it's supposed to be FREE.

Carey, KCMO   September 20th, 2007 5:18 pm ET

Good for Obama! What a waste of time. The amendment is beyond ridiculous. They should pay us back for the tax dollars they wasted voting on something so pointless. The children in the Senate need to grow up…SOON

Martin, Rochester, MN   September 20th, 2007 5:19 pm ET

Wow, our senate is spending its time voting to condemn websites while we have a war going on? What a joke.

Kathleen, Omaha, Nebraska   September 20th, 2007 5:22 pm ET

I support MoveOn.org but I didn't like the ad against General Petraeus. However, it cheers my heart to see that almost all the comments so far support their right to free speech and see through the Republicans' efforts to use this to again assault the "patriotism" of Americans who speak out against the war and divert attention from the huge Iraq fiasco.

I especially loved the mention of the lack of condemnation of the "Swift Boat" Republicans who devastated the reputation of a real patriot, John Kerry. And I also agree that Hillary showed strength and sense in not condemning something she had nothing to do with.

Connie Snyder, Henderson, Nevada   September 20th, 2007 5:25 pm ET

I suppose average Americans posting comments here or voicing there opinions anywhere will be the next to be condemned by the GOP in Congress. What's next? Rounding up Eli Parisier and dragging him out of his house as they do in Iraq? Bush says he feels MoveOn has attacked our military itself by virtue of the NYTimes ad. Wow…so is the president saying MoveOn is an enemy combatant for disagreeing with him? Gitmo isn't big enough to hold us all.

Susan Meyers, Macedon, New York   September 20th, 2007 5:26 pm ET

Oh, please. This is just the republicans questioning the patriotism of anyone who criticises anything to do with this war or the government's "war on the people" oops, I mean war on terror.

Last I heard this was still a free country and Moveon or anyone else has a right to say whatever they want. If you don't agree, go live with Hugo Chavez for awhile.

JK   September 20th, 2007 5:27 pm ET

What party controls the senate? Don't you remember who won in 2006? Why are you still acting like its 1994 and blaming a party that's not even in control??

Max, Boston, MA   September 20th, 2007 5:27 pm ET

Does Congress really have so much free time that they're willing to waste it on meaningless measures like this?

I'll have to look up who voted what, because I certainly hope my Senator didn't approve of this frivolous waste of time.

Bob, San Francisco, CA   September 20th, 2007 5:28 pm ET

This new low of hypocrisy, as well as an attack on free speech, makes me sick to my stomach.

I mean seriously, this is such a pathetic straw man argument that I have absolutely no respect for anyone who supports it.

I can't believe how we've allowed ourselves to becomes so polarized and divided that we are faced with such stupidity and arrogance today. I'm ashamed with what our country has become.

John Ross, Oklahoma City, OK   September 20th, 2007 5:39 pm ET

Why these cowards did not vote on Webb's legislation yesterday which had asked for enough time for troops at home when they come from Iraq. Why is the media not giving enough coverage on such a issue concerning troops. Moveon should place an ad in the RED districts naming all these senators who voted against the Webb legislation. I admire the courage shown by Hillary, Obama and comapany.

Joe Z   September 20th, 2007 5:40 pm ET

I am a MoveOn member and I agree 100% with Eli Pariser's statement that Congress is wasting it's time voting on ads in the NYT. Please do your job Congress and leave criticizing ads in the NYT to Fox News.

"Nothing is more American, nothing is more patriotic than speaking out, questioning authority and holding your leaders accountable."
"I'm promoting a new American patriotism because it is vital to the life and health of this country that we criticize our leaders fairly but freely. Some ask, `How can you criticize the president at a time of war?' I answer, `How can you not?' "

General Wesley K. Clark

Laura Niles MI   September 20th, 2007 5:42 pm ET

This is the whole problem with democrats. They are so afraid of criticism they let the republicans bait them and waste most of their time defending trumped up charges there is not enough time left to do what they should be doing. Maybe if they had bothered to fight over the Swift Boat ads instead of cowering in their corner Kerry couldn't have been deep sixed and if Gore hadn't caved in on the recount and just kept fighting in spite of the Supreme Court Selection of Bush, none of the Bush destruction would have ever happened. If the Bushies are so sensitive, maybe they should have thought twice before they announced the Petraeus report would be written by the White House, Bush, and there would be no transcript. Though if their minds were bigger that a pea, they would realize the video recorded on C-Span is even better than a transcript, but that just goes to show you how little reality registers with that bunch.

Raymond, El Paso TX   September 20th, 2007 5:43 pm ET

WELL DUH!!! Of course Republicans are going to make a big deal out of this. How else are they going to deflect attention from the profiteering orgy taking place in Iraq?

Do the math. If there's 180,000 non-military employees working for contractors in Iraq, and we're spending billions upon billions of tax dollars, doesn't that mean somebody isn't making a whole hell of a lot of money?

Can you say Halliburton? Why do you think Cheney came out of his hole to chime in? He's got a lot to lose.

CitizenJ   September 20th, 2007 5:48 pm ET

Obama didn't vote because he was protesting the singling out of MoveOn.org. He voted for the Democratic version condemning these smears in general.

CJ   September 20th, 2007 5:51 pm ET

Why doesn't the senate try to do something for once to earn their money instead of sitting on their fat back sides and ignoring the many problems we are facing? Why don't they begin to look at ACCOUNTABILITY for the mess we are in? Within the past seven years, our country has nearly been destroyed. Just look around you! We need more news related to the Security and Prosperity Partnership, NAFTA, the North American Union, the Amero, the Federal Reserve, and start asking questions and demanding answers. It would be wonderful for every Congressman to have to enter a hospital without insurance to see how many of our people are treated because they cannot afford the $600.00 plus per month for insurance premiums. Perhaps they all should have to visit the rural areas of this country and see how many people still live without clean running water or indoor plumbing and how many of our own children do not get enough to eat. Maybe they should all visit an oncology ward of a hospital and see the many cancer patients who simply cannot afford the drugs that are available on the market to treat this disease. The same problems exist for all drugs and illnesses. Our freedoms are being sucked away little by little, and if we do not unite and get a grip on this, we are going to find we are a nation of the "haves and have nots" and those who are included in the "have not" group will be nothing more than peasants answering to a dictator. At least "MOVEON" is not afraid to say what they think while they still have the right to do so.

Doug Crum, Duluth GA   September 20th, 2007 5:51 pm ET

For those who think that MoveOn.org represents mainstream America then please explain to me why the Democratic Congress has a lower approval rating than the approval rating of President Bush?

Henry Tucker, Ga   September 20th, 2007 5:53 pm ET

CNN must be bought/controlled by Moveon.Org - - - as they deleted this earlier post:

All you simpletons THINK this is the Senate versus Moveon.Org. What you fail to acknowledge or do not understand is that Moveon.Org is the front group for 5 liberals: George Soros, Herbert & Marion Sandler, Peter Lewis, and Stephen Bing.

These 5 wealthy liberals gave over $78 million towards the 2004 Campaign - MORE than the US Federal Government!

These 5 wealthly liberals have BOUGHT and PAID FOR the democratic party. NONE (aside from Bill Richardson) dare to defy Moveon.Org.

The Senate was right to condemn this group and their antics. If you believe special interests has too much power in Washington - then you would be APPLAUDING these Senators.

Instead - most of you continue moo-ing the democrat/Moo-veon.Org party line. You'll use your partisan narrow-view to suggest my statements are untrue or right-wing rhetoric… as opposed to seeking and learning the truth

Veronica, Stamford, CT   September 20th, 2007 5:59 pm ET

Posted By Henry Tucker, Ga : September 20, 2007 5:53 pm

How much do you think the religious right paid for the GOP, Henry? Do you think they paid more than the oil industry? Perhaps more than the insurance and financial industries?

Stop making such silly claims.

Common Sense   September 20th, 2007 6:02 pm ET

Good, Hilary publically hit herself on the head with a hammer again and Obama demonstrated his superior judgement in staying far far away from this nightmare situation that no one can look good in.

Way to go Barack! Obama08!

Horace Matsavage Eagle Lake, Florida   September 20th, 2007 6:04 pm ET

hey cnn. could you please tell the senate that, no i will not be quiet. They work for me. i have never visited moveon.org but i will be a regular visitor from now on.I dont beleive you could publish what i have to say to the president so ill leave that one alone.

Mia, Stafford, VA   September 20th, 2007 6:08 pm ET

I think there are more PRESSING ISSUES that the Senate should be dealing with. This is a JOKE, as they are !!!!!

If only they can unite on something important!

Joe, San Francisco, CA   September 20th, 2007 6:09 pm ET

The reason Congress has such a low approval rating is because we elected the Democrats to end this war. They have no done that and the voters are disappointed.

Gumby, Tulsa, OK   September 20th, 2007 6:23 pm ET

VERY UNFLATTERING photo of Hillary. She looks tired, don't you think?!?

Sarah, Kansas City, MO   September 20th, 2007 6:27 pm ET

It seems to me that congress has more to do then vote to condemn an organization that is practising a treasured right in this country — free speech. Congratulations fools, this kind of stuff is why the country is so fed up with all of you.

And to the spineless democrats who supported this what are you thinking? Why do you continue to allow the republicans to get away with doing this as well as the swift boat ads and ads questioning Max Clelands character? Turn the tables on them.

Ken, Vallejo, CA   September 20th, 2007 6:31 pm ET

It's so funny how libs try to equate the Moveon ad to the Swift boat ads. The difference is the Swift boat ads were true and exposed Kerry for what he was. Kerry lied about his record to try to overcome the anti military stance he later took and he got called on it. To this day no one can back up Kerry's war record. If most here agree that Petreaus is an honorable man then you too should condemn Moveon's ad. Most here would also agree to not knowing the true situation on the ground in Iraq, so how then can you say what Petreaus said is wrong or were not his own words? Can't have it both ways.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   September 20th, 2007 6:47 pm ET

Hillary's refusal to publicly condemn MoveOn.Org's attack on General Petraeus is quite telling.

We know what is most important to her now don't we.

Tony G, Dallas TX   September 20th, 2007 6:57 pm ET

Kevin, Coral Springs, FL : September 20, 2007 5:05 pm

You are really pathetic. Congress has time to debate NEWSPAPER ADS while our military men and women are dying in Iraq. Senate did not even pass a measure earlier on by Barbara Boxer which was against tarnishing our military personel (which Obama) participated but this is the best they could come up with? Here is a text of what Obama siad in regard to missing the vote.:

"The focus of the United States Senate should be on ending this war, not on criticizing newspaper advertisements," Obama says. "This amendment was a stunt designed only to score cheap political points while what we should be doing is focusing on the deadly serious challenge we face in Iraq. It's precisely this kind of political game-playing that makes most Americans cynical about Washington's ability to solve America's problems. By not casting a vote, I registered my protest against this empty politics. I registered my views on the ad itself the day it appeared.

Obama goes on to say, "All of us respect the service of General Petraeus and all of our brave men and women in uniform. The way to honor that service is to give them a mission that is responsible, not to vote on amendments like the Cornyn amendment while we continue to pursue the wrong policy in Iraq."

Ames Tiedeman, Austin, TEXAS   September 20th, 2007 6:59 pm ET

Hillary Rodham Clinton will never, ever, be the President of the United States of America. She is the greatest divider ever. She makes Bush look like the wonderkind of uniting people! She shall never be the "Decider" she will stay the "Devider"

ralph, Spartanburg, SC   September 20th, 2007 7:00 pm ET

To all of the Republicans condeming MoveOn.com…..by the time the elections roll around, it's going to be MoveOut.com for y'all……right outta Washington. America will no longer stand for any infringments on our constitutional rights and further waste of our tax dollars. We are going to vote you clowns out.

J. Francisco, Yakama, Washington   September 20th, 2007 7:06 pm ET

Yet they fail to repudiate the Republican hate and scare tactics! The Swiftboat crafty shifty business was fair and ethical?

Debi, Philadelphia   September 20th, 2007 7:08 pm ET

We don't have to agree with what they have to say, but they have the right to say it. I would prefer someone who votes for their rights even if they disagree with the statements then someone who just doesn't show up to vote.

Robert Burns, San Diego, CA   September 20th, 2007 7:08 pm ET

This unwise Senate vote boosts MoveOn.org credibility with the 75% of the population that disapproves of the Senate's performance. It certainly earns a donation from me.

Robert Burns, San Diego, CA   September 20th, 2007 7:13 pm ET

Henry Tucker, I'm glad to see that there's some literacy in GA. For whom is the Republican Party a front group? Some of those caught bribing Duke Cunningham & Co.?

J Houston, TX   September 20th, 2007 7:29 pm ET

Why is being religious "right wing?" Why do we no longer trust our military commanders? Why do we even have a military if all war is "bad." What are these hippies honestly thinking. Seriously, give me back my country.

Where are our moral values? Where is controlled spending and the lowest taxes on the globe? Where is the economic giant that destroyed Germany during WWII only 60 years ago? What happened to hard work? What happened to being proud to be an AMERICAN?

The far left and the far right need to go away. I'm sick of special interest groups polarizing arguments.

SB, Maryland   September 20th, 2007 7:31 pm ET

Congress is wasting our tax dollars debating and voting on a newspaper ad while there is a war going on which is costing a trillion dollars and killing thousands of our nations finest?

Thank you for refusing to participate in this ridiculous waste of time Barack Obama.

Greg , Meadville, PA   September 20th, 2007 7:57 pm ET

We're supposed to condemn Move On for THEIR smear tactics? Yet W and his SWIFT BOAT chronies are somehow allowed to use even worse slop- slinging against anyone who dares to even question them. When is someone (attention: NEWS MEDIA) going to finally stand up to THEIR tactics?

Ed,Ellenville,New York   September 20th, 2007 8:21 pm ET

Thanks to the bush administration there is no far left!Centrists now are the left.I don't hear anything about wanting communism.I see a lot about wanting theocracy like Iran.We democrats are now fighting to preserve democracy itself while the religious right conservatives launch attack after attack on our nation.When Alan Greenspan is a lefty,there's something askew.As a centrist myself,I should have no reason to get involved,yet I'm here and elsewhere defending our country's constitution against mentally retarded theocrats.Our founding fathers are turning in their graves.

Antonio, Atlanta, Ga   September 20th, 2007 8:26 pm ET

To vote either for or against such a ridiculous, ceremonial amendment is what is wrong with our political system. There are too many real problems to vote on, i.e. health care, budgets, taxes. This condemnation does not for the American people. I applaud Obama and Biden and any other senator who refused to vote for such a waste of our tax dollars.

Clinton would have been smart to stay above the fray, but she did not. For those who said she exercised courage in voting no, please give me a break. This means nothing and does not impress me. Had she shown courage and voted no for the 2002 war resolution, then I would have been impressed.

Uma, mpls, MN   September 20th, 2007 8:54 pm ET

Common Sense,
Obama going for general is like a dream come true and for Hillary it is real. Hillary has gut to do and say things. Obama is hype..likes to please republican. If he had got he had to show what he believe. Moveon.org has freedom of speech and Hillary express it well.
Well done Hill, you are the mature and experience person ready to be the president of the USA!

companyone   September 20th, 2007 9:25 pm ET

Hi,

Thanks for "reposting' They also deleated my ant-moveon.org post and it was very respectful.

CNN must be bought/controlled by Moveon.Org - - - as they deleted this earlier post:

All you simpletons THINK this is the Senate versus Moveon.Org. What you fail to acknowledge or do not understand is that Moveon.Org is the front group for 5 liberals: George Soros, Herbert & Marion Sandler, Peter Lewis, and Stephen Bing.

These 5 wealthy liberals gave over $78 million towards the 2004 Campaign - MORE than the US Federal Government!

These 5 wealthly liberals have BOUGHT and PAID FOR the democratic party. NONE (aside from Bill Richardson) dare to defy Moveon.Org.

The Senate was right to condemn this group and their antics. If you believe special interests has too much power in Washington - then you would be APPLAUDING these Senators.

Instead - most of you continue moo-ing the democrat/Moo-veon.Org party line. You'll use your partisan narrow-view to suggest my statements are untrue or right-wing rhetoric… as opposed to seeking and learning the truth.

Best,
Dan
General David Betray Us

FT Doylestown, Pa.   September 20th, 2007 9:36 pm ET

Hillary, Obama can't stand up for the TROOPS….can't be a President without TROOPS!!!!
Who will Serve under these FOOLS!
If you can't stand up and tell Move On… HEY this is out of line and not what the Dem's are for. You can't stand up to the Terrorists!
You are NOT Qualified to LEAD.
What a JOKE you both are!

Ellen, Florida   September 20th, 2007 10:46 pm ET

The whole thing is absolutely disgusting. Congress couldn't pass down time for our troops this week but they passed this. Open your eyes folks this is just how the last election was run by the GOP, all spin. Thanks to Hillary and the others for hanging tough.

Rose Hann New London, CT   September 20th, 2007 10:54 pm ET

Bush says MoveOn.org's ad was disgusting. Well well, Bush had no problem with the disgusting Swift Boat ads for lies when the denagrated John Kerrys servive to his country, or Max Cleland who left limbs in Viet Nam. Who is really disgusting here?
HYPOCRACY!
Why should Democrats denounce a movement independent of them. It's not as though they bought and paid for the ad. Bush has selective memory, oh, thats right he's a C student. He just doesn't get it. Maybe Darth Vader can explain better then me.

firestone colorado   September 20th, 2007 11:23 pm ET

but don't you just loooove her jacket!?

Rick Pickett, Oakland, CA.   September 20th, 2007 11:41 pm ET

Who were the 20 Democrats that voted with the Republicans. They should be ashamed of themselves. Spineless cowards. We should vote all 20 of them out of office along with the Republicans in 2008.

edgar, duluth,georgia   September 20th, 2007 11:56 pm ET

hey i believe we need to be working on real issues insted of wasting time in voting on other's opinions.
CRONGRESS GET TO WORK ON REAL MATTERS!!!

Chris Bingham   September 21st, 2007 12:04 am ET

Petraeus just out and out lied about the war, as he was no doubt instructed to do by his Commander in Chief. People see through it, and MoveOn was right to advertise his betrayl. Petraus DID betray us, and every American soldier that will die because of his dishonesty. The right wing owned media just repeats the Rebuplican talking points. Most Americans AGREE with MoveOn. It's only the right wing culture of midelss authority that doesn't see through the lies. American politicians have become sheep.

Larry Davis, Longview, Washingotn   September 21st, 2007 12:36 am ET

Shame on the Democratic senators who voted to condemn free speech. Moveon.org may or may not be correct in their ad, but it's just an ad and shouldn't be the business of the U.S. Senate.

Winston Hsia, San Antonio Texas   September 21st, 2007 1:57 am ET

Wakeup, Bush and GOP if you do not want to a repeat of 2006 in 2008.

Evan Esteves, Boca Raton, FL   September 21st, 2007 2:41 am ET

LOL! Republicans are really desperate nowadays it seems…

Chris, Middletown, CT   September 21st, 2007 1:29 pm ET

I agree - there was no reason to have such a vote - and theres no reason why we can't change MoveOn.ORG's name to "George Soros liberal left wing conspiracy to attempt to sway the election" I realize thats a mouthful - but I believe we should be honest with the intent of the made up messages his group is sending (keep in mind…they have no insider information that the General lied….none….yet….the moron patrol eats it up….)

A real Vet in Kansas   September 21st, 2007 1:51 pm ET

Hypocrites-and you wonder why political campaigns are like they are. There is no difference between Moveon and swiftboat. The only difference is one is left and the other is right wing. Neither care about the truth as long as you go their way.

I am a veteran, I am from Kansas the home of swiftboat vets, and I am as discusted with the attack ads that they did against John Kerry as I am with the attack the move on committed against General Petraeus.

I must address Swift boat vets. They attack a Vietnam War Veteran. Someone that volunteered for service in Vietnam rather than the Texas Air National Guard. When his service in the Tx Guard was questioned, the Presidents DD Form 214 was provided saying honorable discharge, therefore he completed his service how dare you imply otherwise. John Kerry received 3 purple hearts, a bronze star and a silver star for service in Vietnam, his Commanding Officer put him in, DoD awarded the medals, its on his DD Form 214, therefore they must have been falsified. John Kerry had his boat crew with him, but for one that went over to Swiftboat, the rest of swiftboat vets servived with him in Vietnam the same way I served with General Powell at Fort Campbell, in theater. The veterans were really climbing out of the woodwork to say we serve with George who of the Tx Air Guard.

Please, if you intend on attacking someone or claiming this group tells the truth and this group lies, get your stuff together. Neither movon's attacks on Petraeus or swiftboats attacks on Kerry were worthy. And by the way who has a better right to question the validity of a war than someone who has served in it.

Brendan, San Antonio, TX   September 21st, 2007 2:02 pm ET

People are disgusted with the attacks on Petraeus and Kerry.

HUGE DIFFERENCE HERE, THOUGH!!!!

The attacks on Kerry were pure fiction, financed by the Texas "Friends Of The Program," while in Petraeus' case, he lobbied for the job that Bush couldn't find a general to go along with his fantasy and delivered when called upon - literally called upon; remember Bush "popped" into Iraq just before Petraeus testified.

Or was that a coincidence, too?!

Leon R. Maxwell Charleston, SC   September 21st, 2007 3:55 pm ET

Am I the only person that remember what the "Swift-boat Ads" did to John Kerry during his bid for the presidency in 04. The republicans did not try to have those ads canceled or repudiated.
It appears that everyone forgets that "what goes around; comes around!"

Darko, New Orleans LA   September 21st, 2007 4:56 pm ET

If you think moveon.org represents the majority of america you need to pull your head out of your rear.

I laugh at those who complain about the GOP wasting time and money.

Name one thing (other than a pay raise for a minscule fraction of the populous) that the Dems have accomplished since they've been in office? That's right. NOTHING. They've spent all their time investigating the non-stories of Gonzalazes and Plame. They've passed symbolic vote after symbolic vote that does NOTHING. Harry Reid and Pelosi are dead in the water. They couldn't lead a monkey to a banna raffle

Hillary will never be president. She'll lose because she won't garner even 10% of the military or anyone that has friends/ family in it.

Fred 08. Believe it.

BAM, HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA   September 21st, 2007 5:04 pm ET

Absolutely incredible and pathetic! … where did the first amendment go? Thank you Hillary Clinton for standing up for freedom of speech.

Alex Perea, Buena Park, CA   September 21st, 2007 6:58 pm ET

Move-On.org may have made a tactical error in placing the ad. That does not make politics the central issue. We provided the right wing a straw man to wack away at while the real issue is the troops fighting and dying in this ill conceived and atrociously implemented adventure. Bush should be ashamed to hide behind the General's stars.

Jim, Durham, NC   September 22nd, 2007 9:12 am ET

Interesting censorship on this thread.

Cubelogic Improv » Senate Intimidation Amendment   September 22nd, 2007 6:16 pm ET

[...] don't understand why the Senate has to waste time condemning an act of free speech. The only plausible reason is intimidation, to make MoveOn (a 17 employees [...]

Rodney Cruz, Little Elm, Texas   September 23rd, 2007 2:14 am ET

I wonder where my Junior Senator of Texas finds time to waste my tax money in sponsoring condemnation of newspaper ads (which by the way are protected by the First Amendment), and apparently can't find time instead to use my tax money to do what we ask of him, which is to end this war. I am sure his time would be more productive if used to solve other "small issues" that bother a few millions of Americans (including Texans) like healthcare, education, poverty, crime, transportation and government WASTE OF RESOURCES. Just a thought, John.

Joe, Florida   September 23rd, 2007 11:28 am ET

Freedom of Speech!!!

Hillary did the right thing. Obama declined to vote saying that it was a waste of time. While it's true that it's a waste of time to debate on it, we can't allow a website funded by the people to be shut down. Don't forget "By The People, For The People"

MoveOn.org has become one strong for Americans to show their discontent with the War; why should it repudiated?

Trisha, Wailuku Hawaii   September 23rd, 2007 5:08 pm ET

Hooray for Hilary for having the guts to stand up for we the people. Obama showed he is gutless and Biden was not a viable candidate in my opinion from the get go. Inch by inch, challenge by challenge, it becomes clear who has the resolve and integrity to represent us. Imagine if someone told you the Senate had a choice to give rest to our troops or score a political point and they chose scoring a point but claimed they supported our troops. Only in America can representatives expect to fool the people all the time.

Brianna Webb, McEwen, TN   September 23rd, 2007 11:25 pm ET

Whether she distances herself or not I belive that there is more to a person than just the words coming out of their mouths there must be the actions to back them up. Only Senator Clinton has shown this, when she helped a young Sailor find his way back home where as Mr. Obama did not. How will he look after the nation when he won't take the time to look after one Sailor abused in Obama's own state??

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