October 31, 2007
Posted: 08:20 AM ET

Clinton's answer on driver's licenses for illegal immigrants drew fire.

PHILADEPHIA (CNN) — Democratic presidential contender, New York's Sen. Hillary Clinton said New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer's controversial plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants "makes a lot of sense," but stopped short of endorsing the plan in Tuesday night's debate in Philadelphia.

At least one opponent accused her of "saying two different things in the course of about two minutes."

Asked about the proposal, Clinton said Spitzer is trying to find a solution to a bigger problem.

"We know in New York we have several million at any one time who are in New York illegally," Clinton said. "So what Gov. Spitzer is trying to do is to fill the vacuum.

"I believe we need to get back to comprehensive immigration reform because no state, no matter how well intentioned, can fill this gap. There needs to be federal action on immigration reform."

Sen. Chris Dodd disagreed on issuing licenses to illegal immigrants, calling the plan "troublesome." He said, "a license is a privilege, and that ought not to be extended, in my view."

Moments later, Clinton said, "I just want to add, I did not say that it should be done, but I certainly recognize what Gov. Spitzer is trying to do …"

Rivals on stage jumped on her answer. Dodd told her, "No, no, no. You said, 'yes.'"

Pressed to clarify her answer, Clinton said, "This is where everybody plays 'gotcha.' It makes a lot of sense.

"What is the governor supposed to do? He is dealing with a serious problems. We have failed. And George Bush has failed.

"Do I think this is the best thing for any governor to do? No, but do I understand the sense of real desperation, trying to get a handle on this.

"Remember, in New York, we want to know who's in New York. We want people to come out of the shadows."

Former Sen. John Edwards claimed her answer was inconsistent, saying "Unless I missed something, Sen. Clinton said two different things in the course of about two minutes, just a few minutes ago, and I think this is a real issue for the country.

"I mean, America is looking for a president who will say the same thing, who will be consistent, who will be straight with them."

Sen. Barack Obama said "I was confused on Sen. Clinton's answer. I can't tell whether she was for it or against it and I do think that is important.

"One of the things that we have to do in this country is to be honest about the challenges that we face. Immigration is a difficult issue, but part of leadership is not just looking backwards and seeing what's popular or trying to gauge popular sentiment."

Obama called the proposal "the right idea," but added, "That doesn't negate the need for us to reform illegal immigration."

The Democratic presidential candidates next square off November 15 at CNN's debate in Las Vegas.

– CNN Political Desk Managing Editor Steve Brusk

Filed under: Hillary Clinton


Lily Smith Vidalia, Georgia   November 2nd, 2007 12:39 am ET

And she did not say two different things on this. She did not endorse it, but like may others sooner or later we will have to do something like this in all states so we will know where these people are and they an be held responsible if any wrong doings. Makes sense.

Alma, St.Louis, MO   November 1st, 2007 4:33 pm ET

Wow…. this little piece of cheese certainly brought you all out.

Give it up…Hillary is our next President.

Steve Wittlake Blaine Washington   November 1st, 2007 3:36 pm ET

Uninsured mtorists only works if a small percentage of people are uninsured. If large amounts of people are uninsured than you have a disaster.
People normally do not carry large limits of uninsured motorists unless of course they are rich. There is also underinsured motorists but people normally do not carry large limits of underinsured motorists unless they are rich. Either way you are putting a large burden on people that carry insurace to carry much higher limits to protect themselves from large numbers of illegal aliens driving.

MARYE TALLAHASSEE,FLA   November 1st, 2007 1:16 pm ET

I WILL NOT VOTE FOR HILLARY SINCE SHE DOESN'T KNOW ONE SHOE FROM ANOTHER.THE USA NEEDS SOMEONE WHO LIVES THE AVERAGE AMERICAN LIFE NOT THE SILVER FOOT IN THE MOUTH LIFESTYLE.VOTE RON PAUL. I AM SICK OF BOTH PARTIES "DO AS I SAY NOT AS I DO"

Jon, Sacramento ~ Ca   November 1st, 2007 1:00 pm ET

I SUPPORT illegal aliens having drivers licenses….

…. at least those that agree to immediately drive back to Mexico. Those that aren't able to drive, we should help with a plane ride.

Eric, from THE Republic of Texas   November 1st, 2007 12:10 pm ET

How about offering licenses to illegals, if only for the purpose getting their addresses on record, so we then know the correct locations to send the INS to begin the deportation process?

Better yet, how about we teach Mexico how to run an economy so their citizens will have jobs and will no longer feel the need to risk life and limb coming here?

Two both really great ideas that ACTUALLY solve problems. Hey, that all makes too much sense! How about instead, we simply grandstand and wring our hands over the problem? That seems to be the popular thing to do in Washgington anymore.

Sonja San Francisco CA   November 1st, 2007 8:32 am ET

Oh, Hillary will firm up what she's for and against once she's in the White House and we can do nother about it. Her plans to destroy America will firm up nicely then.

therealist   October 31st, 2007 7:18 pm ET

Unlike our pitiful Congress, insurance companies have already addressed illegal drivers. Its called uninsured motorists. Please repeat that with me Hillary, uninsured motorist. So, if Hillary's premise is bogus, her whole argument is bogus and we are left with nothing but her pro-illegal, pro-open boder stance.

Bogus, a good word synonymous to Clinton.

Anonymous   October 31st, 2007 7:04 pm ET

"So what Gov. Spitzer is trying to do is to fill the vacuum."

EXACTLY!! The vacuum of federal inaction by this pitiful 110th liberal Congress.

Jackson, Yucca Valley, CA   October 31st, 2007 5:48 pm ET

What's better, illegal immigrants driving without a license and insurance or giving them a driver's license and enforcing insurance laws? Illegal immigrants driving is already a fact … so why don't we deal with it!

Coach Haughton NH   October 31st, 2007 5:44 pm ET

She agreed that we have a problem in NY with too many illegal aliens and despite the immigration policies that are failing us we still have "people" in that state that need addressing. I think what NY's governor is trying to do is manage the human problem of so many people needing to drive to survive, since the immigration system is still broke and won't be fixed soon.

It's not a simple situation, but ignoring it won't help. There is a human part to this complex situation that we need to listen to.

Telling it like I see it,
Wynter

Posted By Wynter, Loudon, NH : October 31, 2007 11:49 am

Except when she said she opposed it?

Melvin (Chapel Hill, NC)   October 31st, 2007 4:56 pm ET

Hillary supports the plan.

Hillary does not support the plan.

(pick which ever fits your preference, then go to a blog and defend her.)

Clinton has the perfect strategy…confuse, blame everyone but yourself, and get defeated by the GOP in '08.

Tom Dedham, Mass   October 31st, 2007 4:40 pm ET

Lets first disengage from the actual subject at hand and look at how she didn't take a position and simply did a phony as all hell "double speak" in FRONT OF THE WORLD.

Strong candidate? Don't think so.

Baby bonds, she just thought it was a good idea, but it is not part of her platform, only AFTER seeing how it played out in the "real world" she pulled it back and gave us Clinton "doublespeak".

I am NO fan of Edwards at all, but he handed her a brutal beatdown last night with his tag team partners being Biden and Dodd to some degree.

Biden and Richardson who I disagree with on "a good amount of things", are so far superior to this phony it is not funny.

This blog has been up all day and we now have only 54 postings, sorry CNN, not buying it.

She was terrible last night and showed her true colors, and finally the gloves were off and she "couldn't handle the truth".

Oprah is over sheep, time to start explaining what your "queen" meant.

CNB, Washington State   October 31st, 2007 4:11 pm ET

This post above mine is long but you should read it, I agree completely. The Democrats have so much better than Clinton to offer the American people, she really has no backbone, she changes her mind constantly, and worse she doesn't take responsibility for the fact that she made the wrong decisions in the first place. Please people don't make another mistake like you did with Kerry, don't put another Democrat up for election that waivers on issues and loses to "the lesser of two evils".

A tax payer from NY   October 31st, 2007 4:01 pm ET

TO: Someone better

The reason you can't get insurance w/o a license is because you're a legal citizen. You have a valid social security number and a permanent address.

Giving illegals licenses is a terrible, pin-headed idea that will in no way ensure they are insured.

Governor Eliot Spitzer of NY missed the mark on this idea.

Illegals should not be rewarded for sneaking in to a country and depleting its resources.

Ron Everson, Columbus Ohio   October 31st, 2007 3:18 pm ET

finally Hillary showed the people of this country the kind of president she would be, an unsure one. we have had an unsure president for the last 7 years and we dont need another one. she was asked a simple yes or no question, " do you think illegal immigrants should be givin driver licenses, and all she could do is complain and throw Bush into it. she is in between sides on not only this issue but several issues. ( Iraq, SS, Iran, economy)

jc allentown,pa   October 31st, 2007 3:17 pm ET

Hillary is at it again..lots of big
ideas at our expense. Become a citizen first before enjoying the bennies of being one.

Robb, New York   October 31st, 2007 3:17 pm ET

Hillary praises the license plan, but she won't support it. Surprise, surprise. What's next– she voted for the war before she voted against it? Oh, that's right– she already said something like that, too.

Hillary waffles yet again on another hot-button issue. God help her if she ever takes a firm stance on anything, or has an independent thought that wasn't approved by a focus group or her advisors. She's only running for president, a job in which decision-making skills are just a little important.

Seriously, who is she trying to fool? Does she think the American people are so dumb? Hey, Hillary, I got news for you– the American people want somebody in the White House who can think on their own and make decisions on their own that they truly believe are right and are for the benefit of the people they work for.

I don't know where these polls that say Hillary's the best candidate out there are coming from. I don't know whose being polled, because I just can't see how anyone would support a presidential candidate who speaks with such contempt, who seems incapable of independent thoughts or making independent decisions.

One word comes to mind about the Clinton campaign– flake. This country is no better off with her in the White House than the country is now with Bush. If anything, it'll be more of the same divisive politics that we've had to endure year after year whenever a Bush or a Clinton has sat in the Oval Office.

Come on, Democrats. Stand up for what you believe in and don't vote for Hillary. Give us somebody who can lead– Obama, Edwards, Richardson, Colbert, somebody who can make a clear and strong decision. Don't give us more of the same.

Someone better, Olympia, WA   October 31st, 2007 3:15 pm ET

Basically from my perspective:

If you don't have a licsense, you can't get insured, I have tried.

You can still drive without a liscense. A car does not ask to see your liscense before you start it. I know, I did it as an irresponsible addult.

Also, you can still cancel insurance after you get the "proof of insurance" card. Did that one too.

In the end what it gets you is so deep in a hole that takes a lot of $ to step on in order to get out of that hole.

I think giving a license would maybe cut the amount of uninsured motorists by about 30%. The rest are either too poor, or too paranoid that it's a trick to catch them.

So what to do? Get uninsured motorist coverage if you don't allready have it!

Chris, Middletown, Ct   October 31st, 2007 3:13 pm ET

Illegal….as in against the law…its like someone perjuring themselves under oath and not ever having to answer for it….wait…Bill Clinton did that already….yeah….the law doesn't apply to the Clintons

Matt, Canoga Park CA   October 31st, 2007 3:03 pm ET

They also will block the post if you bring up that she was elected as a Carpet Bagger.

Matt, Canoga Park CA   October 31st, 2007 3:01 pm ET

CNN Censors in full effect on this issue. They know their canidate messed up big and a issue like this will kill her nomination when given enough light. So they ar blocking so many posts that point out the stupidity of this idea and her stupidity for supporting it.

Just like Howard Dean YeaHaw this will be her downfall. Don't let this go away. Expose her for the schill she really is.

Bob, San Francisco, CA   October 31st, 2007 2:56 pm ET

Difficult and complex issues require complex responses. I'm sick of reducing things to yes/no answers or cliches for the pea-brains in this country.
Hillary and Obama are the only two candidates from either party that come close to saying real things (though not always since both are also guilty of pandering to idiots).

Veteran OIF I-II Washington State   October 31st, 2007 2:41 pm ET

Look, this is my biggest problem with Democrats over the past 8 years, basically since Clinton was president, THEY CAN'T STICK TO A POSITION AND DEFEND IT!!! They seem to be so concerned with not offending people that they won't make a stand and defend their decisions, they wait to see which way the wind is blowing before they show support. The reason Bush won both times was because he did not waiver on issues, he has opinions on issues and sticks to them, people can respect someone that sticks to their position. Kerry didn't have a spine when it came to defending his stances on many issues, hence he's a political footnote. Get the point Democrats you lost twice in a row to a president nobody wanted, "the lesser of two evils". Start sticking up for what you believe in and maybe you'll sway some voters. Oh and how is it in the greatest nation in the world the best candidate is a talk show host, GO COLBERT!!! RUN FOR REAL!!!

AJ, Chicago IL   October 31st, 2007 2:26 pm ET

Rudy of, Key West, FL ….

You must be kidding! Hillary is not right! She didn't commit to anything. She lied and then tried to give a convoluted answer that blamed the Federal Government (of which she is a member of). Good job Tim Russert of trying to nail Hillary down on a position. Those who watched the debate got to see Hillary's "double-talk" at its finest.

kenny atl ga   October 31st, 2007 2:24 pm ET

what? hillary waffle?

Jon, Sacramento ~ Ca   October 31st, 2007 2:20 pm ET

If ever you needed proof Hillary plans to grant amnesty to illegal aliens – THIS WAS IT!

She doesn't want to deport law breakers. She simply wants them to come "out of hiding". She wants to get them licenses, register them to vote, and get them on welfare/medicaid and use them as another reason for Universal Healthcare.

If we can't deport illegals – deport Hillary! She would make a great European Socialist candidate.

Mike, Houston, TX   October 31st, 2007 2:18 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is an idiot.

Kate, Aurora CO   October 31st, 2007 2:13 pm ET

In response to Illegal bu American:

No illegal immigrants should not have the rights of American citizens. They are not citizens. They are in this country illegally. Just because you can slip into a country in the dead of the night unnoticed does not mean you are granted automatic citizenship. Part of being an American is respecting the laws and abiding by them. If you sneak into this country you are already breaking a law. If you use a social security number not belonging to you, you've broken yet another law. If a person robs a bank without being caught does that mean its ok for him to keep the money? Of course not. Just because illegals have been able to get over the system does not mean they are not subject to the same laws citizens are.

Sarah   October 31st, 2007 2:02 pm ET

Rudy in Key West:

I can see where you would think Hillary might be right on this one. Since she said both "yes" and "no", I can understand the confusion.

The bigger issue is clear. Do we want a president who will finally tell us the truth? Bill Clinton didn't, GWB certainly doesn't.

We have the chance to elect an honest president America, grab the brass ring!

HH, Pittsburgh, PA   October 31st, 2007 2:00 pm ET

Illegal but American, here's a better idea for you. GET OUT!!!! You are NOT wanted here.

Steve Wittlake Blaine Washington   October 31st, 2007 1:58 pm ET

Has Hilary said who is going to pay for their Auto insurance? Is she volunterring to do so? An illegal alien
with no driving history is only elgible for non standard rates that most people who are citizens with good jobs cannot afford.

SLC   October 31st, 2007 1:50 pm ET

SHE DIDN'T PRASIE IT SHE UNDERSTANDS IT. IT'S SIMPLY TO PROTECT OTHER DRIVERS.

CNN AND ALL THE OTHER NETWORKS ARE DISTROYING OUR COUNTRY.

Keith, Chicago   October 31st, 2007 1:46 pm ET

Some people may support Spitzers plan and others will surely be against it.

But the FAR bigger issue here is that when asked about the plan, Clinton said that she was in full support of it. Right after she spoke, Senator Dodd said that it was a very bad idea to give illegal immigrants privileges that should be earned (ie – by legal immigrants).

Immediately after Dodd said the plan was a horrible one, Clinton responded by explaining that she did NOT support Spitzer's plan. To anyone paying attention, it should have been obvious that she made two contradictory statements right after each other, but just in case people didn't notice, John Edwards called her out on it by saying "I could be wrong, but Clinton just made two opposite statements in the span of two minutes".

The fact that Clinton is not forthcoming about her stances on numerous issues, such as immigration, the Iraq War, Iran, Social Security, NAFTA, and government transparency is extremely troubling – and Obama hit on this point as well. It almost seems like she is purposely not trying to take a stance on any issues so that people cannot criticize her…ie – how can someone criticize her on any of her stances/beliefs if she doesn't let people know what her stances and beliefs are? That is NOT a sign of good leadership – and there is no way someone who does this should be the President of the United States. Good leadership is taking the lead on important issues and standing up for what you believe is right, even when you know that a few (or even a lot) of people may not necessarily agree with you.

That is why I am voting for Obama. He has excellent judgment and often seems to be one of the first people to stand up for what is right, time and time again, even before those beliefs are in the majority at times (ie – opposing the Iraq War back when it first began).

Matt; Columbia, SC   October 31st, 2007 1:40 pm ET

Illegal's won't even follow the laws of our country in regards to immigration. What makes anyone think they'd follow the laws regarding driving? They are NOT law-abiding citizens, and therefore do not deserve the same privilages as citizens. Clinton is doing what the democrats do best: pander to the lowest common denominator and distribute handouts to stay in power.

Amy, Seattle, WA   October 31st, 2007 1:40 pm ET

Hillary acknowledged the problem and the solution by Gov. Spitzer. She didn't say this is the best solution, and I thought governors have the right of some independent action anyway.
And you all talk about this like it is an easy problem to solve. Of course you want somehow at least to know who is in your country. Legal or illegal, all people should be registered somewhere… Dodd saying "a license is a privilege" .. another idiot, call it differently but track these people. And "the rivals" jumping on her answer. Give me a break, the easy thing to do is to criticize. What was the rivals' position re this issue?

Annonymous, NY NY   October 31st, 2007 1:38 pm ET

I'm all for the Governor's & Hillary's policy on drivers licenses. I have several different documents (and am able to get more for a few bucks) that would allow me to get several different drivers licenses. Then I would be able to vote several different times! Power to person with the most Undocumented drivers licenses.

Oscar, Rio Vista, CA 94571   October 31st, 2007 1:28 pm ET

At long last. Thank you John Edwards, Barack Obama, Chris Dodd, and Joe Biden for finally challenging Hilary. Last night people really saw her for what she is… a divider, a Washington loyalist, and a flip-flopper.

MA   October 31st, 2007 1:26 pm ET

This is such a great plan. Give drivers licenses to people who can't get insurance. This plays to insurance companies to insure illegals as well. This is just putting a band-aid on a suck chest wound. Immigration needs to be beefed up and reformed.
Hillary’s comments are typical. She is pandering to both sides. I like this plan, but I will not support it.

Tom Dedham, Mass   October 31st, 2007 1:15 pm ET

Quick CNN, post BS blogs above this so you push this out of here as fast as the illegal contribution stories about the annointed one.

Only 7 postings so far, where are all of the apologists, I mean, explainers of what she really means?

Come on, don't be shy. Enlighten us.

Bob, Seattle, WA   October 31st, 2007 1:05 pm ET

Extremely 'typical' Clintonese. Elect this lady and be assured of NEVER getting a straight, true, to the point, right on – ANSWER. Is this what America needs for a leader. NOT.

Paul C., Palmetto Bay, FL   October 31st, 2007 12:52 pm ET

Anyone but a Republican but I certainly hope the Democrats can find a better candidate than Hillary.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   October 31st, 2007 12:43 pm ET

Chris Matthews semed to think she supported the idea.

Funny how she, along with CNN of course, are trying to shade the truth and soften the blow of such a monumental political disaster for her.

Would expect nothing less from the mighty CNN.

joseph, austin, tx   October 31st, 2007 12:39 pm ET

Of cource she wants illegals to have licences, she needs a new block of victims to pander to, and new mouths to feed all those dependent of gubment. Yes illegals will be dependant of gubment, 1 they cant speak the language, so they will be stuck in manual labor jobs which dont pay much and 2 they dont want to speak the language so they will be stuck in manual labor jobs. All they want is the benefits that this great country provides, as long as they dont have to pay for it.

Lynn Ensley McCaysville,Ga.   October 31st, 2007 12:36 pm ET

Hillary, we don't need to reward illegals in any manner, we don't need to raise taxes at all, we need to forget about gun control and coddling to gays. We need to win this election lady, reach down here and get these red states back. Lets save our country if we can. I am with you, don't blow it, you are almost there.

sick of being the nice guy, MN   October 31st, 2007 12:30 pm ET

Ummm … I don't get it. Regardless of your party affiliation, is "illegal immigration" a misnomer? "Illegal," to me and Webster's dictionary, means "against the law." THE LAW IS BEING BROKEN. Every day. With every border crossing.

To those who say "forgive & forget" these transgressions, I ask this question: If you illegally entered another country, and were caught, would you just be forgiven? Think about that before you decide what is the "right" thing for America to do.

josh   October 31st, 2007 12:26 pm ET

So you like the plan… But you won't endorse it? Riding the fence here… Senator?

freetobeme, Rochester, PA   October 31st, 2007 12:18 pm ET

Spitzer should be impeached. An elected official in this country has an obligation to the CITIZENS of the United States, and, if he has any moral backbone, his second obligation is to those who have immigrated to this country LEGALLY.

Clinton talks about "getting a handle on this." She talks as if the government is helpless to deal with illegal immigrants. Well, if the government is unable to deal with illegals coming into the country, it is hardly competent to deal with terrorists entering the country. Is Clinton kidding us, or does she just think we're stupid?

Be very scared, America. There is no one watching our borders and our politicians are poised to give the rights and privileges that you and your ancestors have earned to anyone who can sneak across.

Any politician who advocates amnesty for illegals should not be elected to office EVER!

Tracy Cincinnati Ohio   October 31st, 2007 12:15 pm ET

My concern is this, they are going to drive rather they have a license or not. With out a legal license, they can not obtain insurance. I'm not saying it's right, but do we have a choice? we are only hurting our slef in the long run by allowing them to drive illegally.

John Chicago   October 31st, 2007 12:06 pm ET

HMMMMMMMMMMMM….did anyone understand that answer. Hillary is finally exposed for the fraud that she is.

Ga Voter   October 31st, 2007 12:04 pm ET

Who do you think you are fooling Hillary? Your vote for illegal's immunity last year endorsed driver licenses for all illegals in all states. What don't you understand about NO to illegals? CAN I BREAK THE LAW WITH IMMUNITY TOO??

Gary, Detroit, Mich.   October 31st, 2007 12:01 pm ET

Why do so many of you have trouble understanding what the word 'illegal' means? How is it possible to knowingly grant legal privileges to someone whose presence in this country is illegal to begin with? If you had to climb a fence, crawl thru a tunnel or hide in the back of a truck in order to get into this country then you don't belong here. Go back the way you came.

Mrs. America   October 31st, 2007 11:59 am ET

The whole plan is dumb. If you were in someone's country illegally, would you go tell the government?

Russell NC   October 31st, 2007 11:58 am ET

Hillary talks out of both sides of her mouth.

Richard, St. Paul, MN   October 31st, 2007 11:57 am ET

No, Hillary. Giving licenses to ILLEGAL CRIMINALS is NOT a good idea. They need to be uncovered and deported. There are plenty of educated immigrants who WANT to be here and work and have done so LEGALLY. We don't need to pander to the ILLEGAL CRIMINALS who scurry under our borders like rats and hide from the light of day.

Rudy, Key West, FL   October 31st, 2007 11:56 am ET

Hillary is right on this one. This is a huge problem and I much rather have these folks licensed to drive than having them drive without a license. The bigger issue is immigration reform so these folks who contribute to our society can come out of the shadows. They are not criminals, they are here to work and feed their families. They should be granted rights to work here. Remember our national motto-E Pluribus Unum…"Out of Many, One!" The Republicans want to hurt these people in order to gain political capital with the same right wing nut jobs who bash gay people and who would limit a woman's right to control her own body. Shame on them! Go get em Hillary. You have my vote!

summus   October 31st, 2007 11:55 am ET

Democrats need to get on the right side of this illegal immigration issue. Enforce the laws! Only the Democrats are stupid enough to give up such a gimme election.

Bee   October 31st, 2007 11:51 am ET

She double speak on all issues. I am so believe her on any issues. No integrity or credibility when it comes to Clinton.

I am not sure she is the right person for democratic nomination. No more Clinton plattitude

Terri, NYC   October 31st, 2007 11:51 am ET

I think it does make sense. Yes, the federal govt. doesn't have a real plan, just build walls. If the state comes up with something concrete, let's give it a chance. We need to know who is in the country already.

Maybe a license is a privledge but as long as we live in a country where you can not get around without a car, you are going to have people driving with or without a license. I would rather know who is here, where they live and that they at least know enough about the laws of the road to pass the driver's test. Every little bit helps us be a little bit safer, whether it is while in a car or in general.

Jr, Sacramento, CA   October 31st, 2007 11:50 am ET

HC looked OK in the beginning of the debate, but in the end she proved everyone's point … flip/flop. I feel bad for her because the Reeps will come down on her like flies on !@#$.

Wynter, Loudon, NH   October 31st, 2007 11:49 am ET

She agreed that we have a problem in NY with too many illegal aliens and despite the immigration policies that are failing us we still have "people" in that state that need addressing. I think what NY's governor is trying to do is manage the human problem of so many people needing to drive to survive, since the immigration system is still broke and won't be fixed soon.

It's not a simple situation, but ignoring it won't help. There is a human part to this complex situation that we need to listen to.

Telling it like I see it,
Wynter

d eckert rockford mi   October 31st, 2007 11:45 am ET

when are americans gonna wake up and realize we are getting sold down the road?…

Greg, NY, NY   October 31st, 2007 11:43 am ET

Forget the plan, this isn't really about the plan. It's about the fact that you cannot get a straight answer out of Clinton no matter what.

Even when pressed to answer, she says, "This is where everyone plays 'gotcha.'" That's still not an answer! Do you support the bill, yes or no, not yes, no or all of the above.

Richard, Ewing, NJ   October 31st, 2007 11:43 am ET

I never really like Hillary Clinton, but I always like to give people benefit of the doubt. For example, I don't think it was a such a bad decision that she stayed with Bill Clinton, and I was upset for a reporter to ask if she is a lesbian. However, listening to her answers to many questions yestersday was really painful and reminded me why I don't like her. Why? Not because she supports a proposal I disagree, but because she jumps all over the places and won't take a stand. She is kinda for the NY license but also not, she is for baby bond but not, she is one of the strongest war advocator on Iraq but not anymore, she is kinda for troop withdrawal but wanted troops there for decades to come, she is kinda open to the idea of diplomacy with Iran but most likely it won't happen, she is kinda for protective trade but she is extremely close tie to India (more than most politicans), she is kinda for this and that. I have no idea what she really thinks.

Ron, TX   October 31st, 2007 11:42 am ET

She praises the NY license plan, but doesn't endorse it. That's very similar to how the anti-gay Rev. Mayberry praises Hillary Clinton, but didn't "endorse" her. Coincidence? I don't think so. How's she supposed to shift her position later if she declares one way or the other? Geez, stop being so mean and unfair to Hillary, she HAS to be able to shift her position later!

Please! Just answer a question straight-forward for once, Hillary!

Wayne Jerris , IL   October 31st, 2007 11:32 am ET

That's pretty sad that she would think such a program is good. In her thinking, it is good to reward those who break the law. That is destructive reasoning even for liberals, bordering on insane.

travis   October 31st, 2007 11:26 am ET

Have your cake and eat it too…

Eyong,Gainesville,GA   October 31st, 2007 11:08 am ET

One interesting observation is that Obama was nailing Hillary with absolute calm, without a single sign of anger on his face. That's what you get when you stumble and give Barack Oabma an opening.

Hillary Clinton's vulnerabilities were exposed! She was nervous and scared. when asked tough questions. She rambled, shook her head, drank water, etc.

Lyle, NYC, NY   October 31st, 2007 11:04 am ET

Yeah, nice try Hillary. you don't have this nomination wrapped up. This whole plan is horrible. You can't give something like a license or id card to illegals. and Homeland Security's involvement is troubling. big brother continues to try its best to exert more control.

Arthur, Montpelier Vermont   October 31st, 2007 11:00 am ET

I first heard of this during the debate last night. Today I read Lou Dobbs editorial. I think he is more correct on this issue. Illegal immigrants, we should say undocumented workers, don't have the right to a driver's license. How can they if they really ought to be sent home?

pam Eugene, OR   October 31st, 2007 10:45 am ET

Hillary is the teflon queen for sure. She tries so hard to make sure no answer can stick to her.
How can you tell for sure how she feels about anything?

Illegal but American   October 31st, 2007 10:23 am ET

I support Hillary's view that illegal immigrants are immigrants. They should have all the rights of any America.

JB Boston MA   October 31st, 2007 10:22 am ET

Wow a short term flip flop. And yes, I watched it and thought throughout she looked like a bumbling idiot!

This license scheme is the biggest underhanded, manipulative thing I have ever seen. These illegal immigrants can register to vote at the time of acquiring a license. Guess where those votes will go. . . Spitzer and Clinton maybe. This is a calculated move by both of them!

All the while diluting my vote. The right to vote should be taken away from all New Yorkers because of this idiot Governor!

BC, Houston, TX   October 31st, 2007 10:17 am ET

Hillary said, "I believe we need to get back to comprehensive immigration reform because no state, no matter how well intentioned, can fill this gap. There needs to be federal action on immigration reform."

Aren't the Dems in control of Congress? Aren't they the ones responsible for "federal action on immigration reform?" This is the very reason why Congress's approval rating is lower than President Bush's rating. They are a collection of do-nothing leaches who want nothing more than to hear themselves talk.

Steve, Sumter SC   October 31st, 2007 10:13 am ET

Let's see you say giving drivers licences to illegal aliens is a good idea but will not endorse the policy. Why? Is it because you do not want your attached attached to a dumb idea? You cannot have it both ways. Not only is this a dumb idea it is potentially a security risk! You won't fight for New York security, why do you expect us to believe you will fight for national security?

Robert, Cleveland, OH   October 31st, 2007 9:36 am ET

I watched the debates. I felt sorry for Richardson (I guess it is more and more clear, he's eying VP position in Clinton ticket the same way Edwards was eying it in 2004 and thus was avoiding personal attacks), they didn't ask him much questions. Biden/Dodd and, in particular Kucinich are clear "also runs" so who cares. But Obama's and Edwards attacks were more appropriate for general elections debates (who's in general election mode?) with clear desperation from inability to shake Clinton. A lot of personal attacks or blowing a "no issues" (like the one desribed) into the major problems. Clinton appeared deliberately avoiding messing into the fight. Overall, this reminded me a couple of lap-dogs running around the legs of a lion – with the same effect.
Hillary 2008

Loyda, DC   October 31st, 2007 9:35 am ET

the idea of granting illegals the PRIVILEDGE of a driver's license is absolutely idiotic!!!!!

AJ, Chicago IL   October 31st, 2007 9:32 am ET

This was a classic Hillary moment that CNN does not put to full context. Hillary Clinton's answer to Tim Russert's question on NY licenses for illegal aliens was straight "double-talk" and untruthfulness. Russert stated the question and then read off her response given to a New Hampshire newspaper that she thought what NY was doing was a good idea. Instead of answering the question directly, she starts talking about Tim posing "gotcha" questions and then denies supporting the idea of what she called "undocumented workers" getting driver licenses. Her entire response was one of true confusion, dishonesty, and attempts of political savy.

Barbara Doyle, Cape Coral, FL   October 31st, 2007 9:20 am ET

Giving drivers'licenses to illegal immigrants means they will have to pass a test.Isn't that better than having self taught, possibly dangerous drivers on the road? In addition they will be in a computer system. The only problem with the idea is that it is sensible, a real NO NO in our politically driven society

Richard, Morrisville, NC   October 31st, 2007 9:10 am ET

What Mrs. Clinton said was that what Governor Spitzer was doing made a lot of sense, in other words she understood why he was doing what he is. She never said she supported his plan. In fact she made clear that what was really needed was comprehensive immigration reform at the national level so that Governors were not forced into taking such extreme steps. It is clear that her opponents in an attempt to smear her are either intentionally misunderstanding what she says, or are too unsophisticated to understand it. I am sure if someone asked Mrs. Clinton to comment on her opponent's constant attacks on her she might respond: "It makes a lot of sense. They are behind by 30 points in the polls and continue to fall further behind in the critical early states. It is not surprising they would resort to negative attacks out of desperation." This by no means would imply that she supported or was in favor of the attacks on her. It is clear Mrs. Clinton was expressing the idea that while she understood where Governor Spitzer was coming from, even though she did not support his plan. It seems as if John Edwards and Barack Obama have pulled a page out the Republican's playbook. In 2004 any time John Kerry gave an answer that required the least bit of sophistication to understand he was accused of flip-flopping or double talk. Obama and Edwards have reached a new low and I only hope voters will see through the politically motivated misinformation they are attempting to put over on the voting public.

therealist   October 31st, 2007 8:46 am ET

Hillary has already voted in favor of giving illegal’s immunity from US law and make them citizens.

There is no doubt about the "good ideas" she supports, regardless of the detriment to the rest of us. But CNN isn't going to call her on it because they too support open US borders..

Glenn,Bham,Al   October 31st, 2007 8:31 am ET

A perfect example of double talk. Of all the candidates She is best at saying nothing. I disagree with Obama & Edwards on most everything. I do however respect them for taking a stand. Driving privileges should not be given to people in this country illegally.

Earl, Ohio   October 31st, 2007 8:28 am ET

This performance from Hillary left me in shock. I was not sure if I was watching her debate or watching a dying fish gasping for breath as it flips and flops all over the place.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

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

CNN=Politics Screensaver

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

Follow us on Twitter

CNN on TwitterGet Ticker updates the moment they appear online via the Web, SMS, or instant messages.
Follow politicalticker

Categories
CNN Comment Policy: CNN encourages you to add a comment to this discussion. You may not post any unlawful, threatening, defamatory, obscene, pornographic or other material that would violate the law. All comments should be relevant to the topic and remain respectful of other authors and commenters. You are solely responsible for your own comments, the consequences of posting those comments, and the consequences of any reliance by you on the comments of others. By submitting your comment, you hereby give CNN the right, but not the obligation, to post, air, edit, exhibit, telecast, cablecast, webcast, re-use, publish, reproduce, use, license, print, distribute or otherwise use your comment(s) and accompanying personal identifying and other information you provide via all forms of media now known or hereafter devised, worldwide, in perpetuity. CNN Privacy Statement.
Home  |  World  |  U.S.  |  Politics  |  Entertainment  |  Health  |  Tech  |  Travel  |  Living  |  Business  |  Sports  |  Time.com
Podcasts  |  Blogs  |  CNN Mobile  |  Preferences |  Email Alerts  |  CNN Radio  |  CNN Shop  |  Site Map
© 2008 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved.
Powered by WordPress.com VIP