CNN

Obama and now Edwards of all people have nothing else to run on but to beat up on Hillary. Cheap and decieptful. I am not shocked at Obama as he has not told we the people how may other ways are there to get to God. But I am a bit shocked at Edwards. Is he trailing that far?

Well, Barak Obama shows his cool rational and authentic style juxtaposed with the arrogant, elite and evasive style of the slick Clintons.

Barak is adding political trench experience like a fighter with warm up opponent getting ready for the main bout the national election. Hillary is providing this service for the clear choice for the winning of the White House is President Barak Obama.

He is clear and concise and well reasoned on his stand on the issues
where she hedges and waffles and ducks
and does that same old sleazy political shuffle.

Time to turn the page, alright!

Time for change!

Barak has my vote.

Obama supporters are obviously not very smart. You folks are just like the republicans, HATERS. I'm not voting for someone that attacks others.

I wish news agencies like CNN would spend more time educating viewers about how each candidate stands on the issues than about who got in the best pot shot at a debate.

As far as I am concerned Edwards and Obama's behavior in the debate was shameless ... especially Obama, who so far stands for nothing bur mediocrity.

The real debate was online and at the World Café with Mike Gravel! His knowledge and experience puts the other candidates to shame and that came through quite clearly last night. He is for empowering the people and that is exactly what he was doing. Empowering us – teaching us what we need to know to "read" these guys. Pointing out the lies. It was great! Quite a feat for the campaign to take on and they pulled it off beautifully. I would have liked to see a bit more "give 'em hell" attitude, but he did that where he could during his critique of the debate. It's not his fault most of the other candidates are boring idiots and the questions asked were pathetic.

I noticed that some of the other candidates seem to be picking up a lot of Mikes phrases – only with Mike, there's substance behind the words. With the others, they are just empty words.

I was bored to death listening to Obama drone on – he seems to say a lot of words, but he really says nothing. My brain automatically shuts down when he speaks. And it was kind of fun watching Hilary try to redeem herself. I will also say that my respect for Kucinich dropped several notches. I was literally shocked that he didn't mention Mike not being there! I didn't see the end – did he ever mention Mike or bring up the censorship issue?? True colors shining through?
I want real change, not just a change in the dictatorship.

Hillary talks and talks, but is very careful not to say anything.

Go OBAMA GO!! He is amazing and secures my vote everytime I hear him speak. He totally won that debate hands down. Edwards also had a strong performance, as did Richardson.

Did anyone catch Clinton steal a line from Senator Barack Obama? Her quote went something like:

"We need to turn the page on Iran...actually, we need to throw the whole book out."

If stealing in that manner isn't crucial and unusual, then I don't know what is. The fact that she didn't even acknowledge that she was using a phrase/trademark of one particular candidate is fascinating to me.

Why did she do that?

Clinton...(Hillary)...is not my choice. She seemed really vengeful in this debate because her competitors were asking her to do what they've all been doing: actually answering questions with more than lip-service.

Has anyone read about her response to this debate? Check her website. Her responses are *BULL* but I wonder if she realizes that others realize she is full of it.

Her performance is going to hurt her with undecided voters and fracture her base. I look forward to the weeks ahead.

Any political observer knew what we all saw yesterday. Senator double talke hilary. This lady is a joke

The labor union endorsement is great for Hillary and for all of you Hillary bashers, apparently the "bash Hillary" debate is really hitting home with women. You can call it sympathy support, but it seems that she may have more women on her side after last night, especially when the normal American voter reads the headline suggesting all the men, including the "foaming at the mouth" Chris Matthews, went after her last night. Good Job MSNBC. Oh, and by the way, I'm a male suporting Ron Paul.

With regard to the concern some have over release of archived Clinton documents, I recall that in the last year a tape of Nixon talking to Kisinger reviling Jews was released. Reagan's person Diary was released. If these records of Republican presidents are not released until well after they died, Clinton's records can be held back until they are DEAD. We know the Republicans just want to resurect what we have heard before. About $100,000,000 was wasted by Republicans trying to pin some crime on the Clintons, unless you think exposing a BJ was worth $100,000,000

read Kari's response....its like the debate and the other comments never happened....now that my friends is the sign of a dangerous cult mentality...

First off, I pray that my two choices for president of the United States will not BOTH be from New York, that would be severely depressing. Second, I really can't see why so many support Clinton, She's not a very good candidate in my eyes and I am undecided and don't consider myself linked to either party. People seem to be touting her as brave and decisive.... Are you kidding me? Why is she brave? because she started attacking the president's policies when polls showed his popularity was in the tank? Why is she decisive? because she basically opposes anything the White House or Republicans put out there? People... why do you jump on the leading candidate's bandwagon just because they seem to have the popularity to win. Here's an original thought, why don't we find the person most qualified for the job before throwing our support behind them. I challenge anyone that reads this to produce anything, any bill any legislation that Clinton has put forth that has really done anything for this country....... go ahead i'm waiting... ....

Oh and so far the best candidate in my opinion is Stephen Colbert. At least he could put on a good debate.

I don't think the attacks on Hillary over her seemingly ambivalent answer regarding drivers licenses for illegal aliens were justified. She was trying to make a point that NOT EVERYTHING IS A YES/NO ANSWER. Intelligent discussion usually produces many viewpoints, and Hillary was acknowledging that she supported the idea of the New York plan, but not necessarily every aspect of it.
That is a real answer, not simplistic phrases or yes/no answers for the simple-minded (sadly, the majority of Americans these days).

Hillary was the only one in this debate that looked Presidential.

Obama and Edwards magnified their inability to stick with the real issues of this race. That was glaringly apparant during this debate.

They instead made the choice to take the low road by ignoring the issues and focus their rhetoric on attacking Hillary.

Obama is not qualified to be the leader of the free world. His credentials as a legislator in Illinois and two years in the Senate are not sufficient qualifications for the job to which he aspires.

And Edwards, well a trial lawyer harping endlessly about honesty and integrity is laughable.

Both candidates are desperate and it shows.

Don't think for a minute Edwards and Obama don't have skeletons in their closets.

Senator Clinton has more class than to do to others what has been done to her over the last few hours or the last many years.

She has more class, ability and know how than both John and Barak combined.

Hillary was the clear winner in this debate. She was poised and authenic, and yes, clearly electable.

She is indeed ready to hit the ground running, she will lead this country back to a place of standing in the world community.

Bill Richardson and Joe Biden showed some spunk too.

Hillary has my vote for sure.

Instead of stating the "wrongs" and faults of Mrs. Clinton, they need to be stating the "rights" and positive attributes of their own campaigns. It's been proven for years that Clinton is an easy target for whatever reason. We get it! Obama and Edwards seem more concerned about woman running in the race than the country they want to lead. Obama and Edwards: Start promoting your own ideals. Unless you don't have anything enlightening and great to say about yourselves..yes, then by all means, waste your time and the time of the American people by attacking someone else in your own party.

Yes, everyone, Hillary is the candidate for change. Hell, she changes her stance on issues as often as she changes her pantsuits.

Excuse me, Cheryl, are polls considered biased reporting?
Just wondering....

Also, I agree, it IS interesting to see the candidates true nature emerge as they grasp at the few remaining straws in their campaign.
Go Hillary, Go!

All these "GO HILLARY!" supporters are deluding themselves if they think Obama and Edwards were attacking Hillary. Pointing out facts that question her judgement, honesty, and integrity are not attacks. It was clearly evident that Hillary had three important slip-ups in this debate that questioned her ability to be a change agent in Presidential politics. One was her 2007 vote to declare the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (part of Iranina government)a terrorist organization. She was the only democratic senator on the Presidential stage to vote on that resolution. And what was her answer? A general paraphrase of Obama's reference to using "sticks and carrots" to get Iran to stop its nuclear ambitions and sponsoring terrorism. She keep saying over and over, that her vote is a form of diplomacy. Hillary, here is the definition of Diplomacy; the art and practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of groups or states. Hillary, who is the US government negotiating with?!

Hillary's second slip-up was the Bush-like attitude of secrecy surrounding Bill Clinton's request that the Clinton Presidential archives not be released until 2012. Obama pounced on this clear Bush-like tactic of secrecy after,Hillary for months has been claiming her experience in the White House (as a spouse) makes her a good candidate for President. Both Edwards and Biden jumped on this issue.

Thirdly, when Tim Russert asked her about her support of NY Governor's idea to give illegal aliens a driver's license, Hillary straight out lied, but tried to clean the lie up, but then her explanation became extremely convoluted. Both Edwards and Obama jumped on Hillary for giving credence to past statements that she is not truthful and politically tailoring her answers to whatever the public wants to hear.

Democrats wake up! Hillary is going to get more of same from her fellow opponents going forward. If she becomes the Democratic Presidential nominee, the Republicans are going to come at her much more harder on these very issues and a whole lot more.

Obama was the clear winner and Biden was clearly the second best, in this debate. Edwards made some very true, and good points about Clinton's lack of honesty on the issues and where she stands, her lack of consistency on the issues, and her inability to make any real changes to the systems when so many HMO's, defense companies, and other special-interest groups are donating so much money to her campaign. As much as I agree with Edwards, I think he loses a lot of credibility being in the pockets of Hedge Funds and Trial Lawyer associations. And some of his criticisms of Clinton, while true, sometimes seemed to be a little bit over the top and he didn't look very "presidential" criticizing too much and too forcefully.

Obama did a much better job, pointing out his differences and pointing out that he is would be a better leader than Clinton because he lets the voters know where he stands, instead of being purposely vague on one's stances, which Clinton does...and he also pointed out the need for much greater government transparency, which has been horrible under Bush but would not be much better under Clinton either. But he stated his differences with Clinton in a nuanced way, keeping his cool, and being over the top like Edwards was.

Biden is a very sharp guy with a ton of experience – especially in foreign policy. My guess is that Obama will win the nomination and presidency, and assuming he does, I think that Biden would make an EXCELLENT Secretary of State or Defense.

Clinton was downright awful in this debate. While I prefer her to any Republican candidate, one thing I have noticed more and more about her is her inability to give a straight answer – it seems like she is purposely not taking positions on important issues for political gain – when a true leader would not worry about possibly alienating a few voters and would take a stance and stand up for what is right. Obama and Edwards already spoke to this issue in the debate, but then she really shot herself in the foot when she exhibited a perfect example of their speaking points in front of everyone...when she said that she was for Spitzer's illegal immigration plan only to say that she did not support it, two minutes later, after Dodd said it was a really bad idea. How anyone could support Clinton after that, is beyond me.

The reviews have come in, and Barack won this round.

Even the Clinton-boosting media is noticing.

MSNBC – (Howard Fineman): She talked about the process. And also that was the one time where Obama turned toward her, what we used to call in old debate language, the pivot, remember that? He turned toward her and he said look, this will not stand because if you're claiming the presidency based on your being the first lady, you've got to come clean on that. I thought that was his best debating point that he's made in any of these debates so far."

Tom in New Mexico:

Can you define "blessed"?

I watched and listened to the entire debate.

The performance of former Senator Edwards and Senator Obama was shameful. Their personal attacks on Senator Clinton's truthfulness, charactor, and ability were over the top. If Senator Clinton were a man they probably would not have been so venomous; men are more circumspect when calling another man a bald face liar (I think it has something to do with weighing the comment against the likelihood of getting punched in the face). I guess they thought since she was a womand that wasn't very likely, cowards.

Senator Clinton's ability to ignore or deflect their criticism and their personal attacks was admirable. With the exception of her answer regarding New York Driver's Licenses (which she blew badly), I think she did a terrific job.

Senator Biden would make a terrific Vice-President or Secretary of State.

Buggie in San Diego:
Did we watch the same debate? Hillary Clinton was absolutely terrible. She didn't answer any of the questions directly, she has no good response for her horrific vote on Lieberman-Kyl, and we got to see her in her typical, shrill, defensive posture.

This is the beginning of the end for Hillary.

Obama was articulte, presidential and forth right. He clearly is the better candidate and needed to distinguish himself from Clinton. She just stands around and stradels the fence and never really takes a concrete position on matters that she is not sure will be recieved well and this is the same way that she will govern if elected. Wake up people she will hurt this county all most as much as Bush has.

I don't want another person in the White that can't see both sides of what's going on. Hillary sees both sides and because of the she is the DEVIL! I wish Americans were smart but they're not because GOD is way to much a part of their lives.

HILLARY WILL BE PRESIDENT!

I still have no idea who I will vote for in the primaries (and I can't even begin to think about the "what if"s of a general election). I really liked John Edwards until this debate. He did nothing to further his campaign. He and Obama helped Hillary further her campaign by forcing her to further explain her decisions and stances. She took advantage of their critiques, while they just kept stating how they disagreed with her. We get it–you're all different. It just bothers me that Edwards and Obama fail to be more specific on themselves as candidates as well as the issues and policies they fight for. And it disgusts me that Obama, who didn't vote on the Iraq War or on the Iran bill, feels he has the right to criticize those who made a vote. If you can't be bothered to do your job (in the case of the Iran bill) and put your vote where your mouth is, you have no right to complain about how others voted. He skipped out on this vote–which is not only significant for the country and its international relations, but also is part of his job. How do we know he won't slack on his job as president, if elected? I was excited about Obama at first, but now I realize I was just buying into the "hype"; he is annoying me more and more.

1. I am very disappointed in Obama every time he was asked a question about what his policy was all he did was attack Clinton, I have no idea where he stands on anything, talk about not be forthright

2. Edwards lost this in 2004.

3. Why do you people continue to listen to the Republicans, they always say one thing and do the opposite, when they say they look forward to running against Clinton they are really afraid. They wouldn't spend an entire debate talking about how easy she would be to defeat if they really thought that. THEY ARE AFRAID OF HER.

Hilliary exposed. It is just the beginning in the national spotlight as ever her fellow Dems find it hard to swallow her evasiveness. She is trying to be Bill but can't seem to muster the talent of the 'Showman'.

It is non sense. Bill Clinton is a very good guy, but his wife is awful, becase she has not any respect to her husbant. The place for woman is in the kitchen like my wife. All men lets keep together and fait for ours rights.

Obama and Edwars are freaks. They are acting just like the republicans. You two are so scared that you're going to try and bash your way to the top. It's not going to work. Edwards you're a loser!
Obama you're not half as cleaver as you think you are.

WE LOVE YOU HILLARY!!!
It's obvious have you seen any polls.
ANY ONE WITH A BRAIN LOVES HILLARY!

"Let’s face it. Mr. Edwards and Mr. Obama are too of a kind. They both believe that Americans are stupid..."
Buggie, CA

Well Buggie, when we use phrases like "too of a kind", we do appear quite stupid...

Edwards and Obama are both extremely strong candidates (esp. Obama in my opinion) who believe they can really help this country. To win over the general public, they have no choice but to attack the entrenched "Billary" Clinton Political Machine. I prefer that to the alternative, which is stand idly by and allow Hillary to get the nomination based on name-recognition and special interest group support, and then watch her lose the general election because she is so very unelectable (see her enormously high national DISLIKE %).

What happened to Hillary? She did not have a 'scripted' answer for all those questions that just needed a truthful answer. It makes me wonder if she really plans to release her HillaryCare papers. Since she was our First Lady, and worked on such an important project, you would think that she would WANT to show us her "experience" in her efforts to provide us with a good health care program. Why can't she tell us the truth about so many issues? Why is she afraid to be open and honest? I don't think I can not support her anymore. My eyes have been opened to what they have been saying about her. She lost my vote last night.

I loved her comment about Rangel's tax bill.
..."I can't really comment on it beacuse I don't know all of the details but.......(and later) .. I disagree with some of the details"

Not even a break in the sentence and this double-speak. A classic "try to cover all bases" answer when you haven't a clue what you're talking about.

Though the process must playout to fruition it is quite apparent that Hillary R Clinton will be our next President barring some unfortunate catastrophe. WE ARE BLESSED TO HAVE THE CLINTONS.

Posted By Tom, ALBUQUERQUE, NM : October 31, 2007 11:20 am

Priovide some details on your expert analysis Tom.

She looked like a non-answering moron last night, even dumber sounding than Bush.

Her performance last night IF REPORTED, could be that catastrophe that you speak of.

CNN are you playing games with me, where are my last two comments? Are they coz they are against Hillary Clinton. We need more Tim Russerts at CNN

I am egaerly waiting to hear from Hillary intern, TheInsider, to enlighten us on Hillary's performance at the debate. Where are you TheInsider, you are not hiding in Hillary's indoctrination office are yoo?

Interesting to see the true nature of the candidates when they are losing....

CNN, not only did obama and edwards step up their critisisms but clinton had a very poor performance and was unimpressive. she didnt know if she was for or against issueing illegals drivers licences,wasnt clear about social security and continues to prove that her adminstration would continue the bush/cheney doctrine of total secrecy and not being honest with the american people(supports bill clintons request to the natinonal archives not to release her records of service while in the clinton adminstration) but yet wants to tout it as part of the experience she is running on. changing of parties is not enough in this election. true leadership is whats needed and not telling people what they want to hear.Americas image must be restored and truly, conventional outlook and politician such as hillary clinton who authorized the iraq war is

I can't wait to see the spin the Hillary supporters put on the fact she didn't answer the questions posed to her....yet....like good cult members....they will say how great she did....when...anyone can see....Saul Alinskys girl....followed his teachings....to a tee...."lying, cheating and stealing are ok. As long as it for the greater good"

Coming from a Republican , it was hillarious last night watching Hillary Self-destruct. Looks like the "SMARTEST WOMAN IN THE WORLD" couldnt handle the heat and talked out of both sides of her mouth on a couple of questions. I just wish she would have got the nomination before people started to see the real candidate she is. Sorry Hillary you have been EXPOSED.

I thought Hill looked like she was at a High School council meeting. Stuttering, never committing to a thing and when committing, then asking for more time to go back and refute what she just committed to. She looked awful. She can't decide if she should be far left in her positions (to gain the nomination) or more moderate to do better in the national election. Who wants someone who doesn't tell you what she thinks but what she thinks you want to hear!!!!

Barack looked good, as did Biden. I just wish Richardson could form a coherent sentence.

I think Edwards and Obama are right: the GOP is giving their attention to Clinton because she is the easiest to beat. She is following the proud tradition of Gore and Kerry, party elites who look good on paper, but eventually become perceived as disingenuous. (Remember how Republicans claimed that Gore and Kerry were "locks" for the nomination, and the toughest potential general election opponent? Maybe we should stop listening to these claims.) The media elites want a soap opera, and so they will favor Clinton and Giuliani because their interests lie with having a good story that "sells," not what is best for our nation. That's why the level of public discourse is below the cellar. We need Democratic leadership that does not apologize for holding progressive positions, as long as they are willing to be reasonable and foster bipartisanship. Republicans never apologize for their conservatism, but the problem is that many are unwilling to work with others. We must respect one another if we are going to work together. Militant attachment to any ideology is inappropriate for those who hold office, but ideology cannot be removed from the equation. We need politicians who represent all kinds of perspectives, and aren't ashamed to argue their point of view. We also need to work together and have the humility to grant others their right to think how they may. Its time for a new vision within not only the Democratic party, but the entire nation as a whole.

Though the process must playout to fruition it is quite apparent that Hillary R Clinton will be our next President barring some unfortunate catastrophe. WE ARE BLESSED TO HAVE THE CLINTONS.

Very nice how they made her look like a Republican in a Democrat's clothing...

The most worthwhile comment of the night was from Senator Biden, when he said he would put a stop to trade with China. That improbable action would sure make a much needed cut into the Walmart machine, and it would certainly make things easier for our failed Consumer Products Safety watchdog which apparently believes that American corporations are capable of placing American health and safety above their own greed.

I agree with Obama's assertion that Hillary changes positions. She voted for the first Iraq war based on faulty intelligence but then later went on the defensive and joined the majority in voicing against this war. Then she goes and agrees with sanctions against Iran, which will only aid in the Bush Cheney machine to invade Iran before the end of their rule. How can she rely on the intelligence regarding Iran if the intelligence regarding Iraq was so wrong? She also has stated the troops will remain in Iraq until near the end of her first term (if she wins) so she wants to keep the soldiers in harm way in a war that was started in error? If Hillary wins that will mean two families have had control over our country for over 20 years. That is frightening.

John Edwards was the winner of last nights debate. Thought he did a great job bringing to people's attention How senator clinton change's her views to be accepted with whatever political arena she is in. Leaning toward President Edwards as the Democratic nominee.

They were not criticizing her. They were stating facts.Try it sometime.

The media NEEDS to start giving FAIR reporting.The reason Clinton SEEMS to be ahead is because of the biased reporting.The reason CNN received an emmy is due to the fact the ones who voted for you pay you.

I'm sick of CNN labelling Obama's and Edwards's remarks as "attacks"!!

These Senators are not attacking Clinton's character as a person (which is what has been the politics of the past), but they are drawing distinctions between the candidates.

The American people are smart enough to know the difference.

News agencies such as CNN are the ones that need to catch on!!!

Correct me if I am wrong but Obama is contradicting himself from the get-go. He stated from the beginning he would not be part of the negative campaigning, ie: attacking his fellow Dems. Let's not forget his latest fiasco with the Reverend either. Edwards has just turned out to be a big complainer and mean spirited. AND, his wife is worse. My point here is that every person, candidate has weak points or faults. Hillary did not return barbs at her blatant attackers but stuck to her platform. My God, it was more a bashing than a debate. Hillary, keep plugging away because you have them scared. You also have strengthened my support for you.

Kudos to both Barack Obama and John Edwards for calling Hillary Clinton out on her switches, and out right lies. I cannot believe that just a year ago I supported her. Hillary Clinton flip flops more than a freshly caught fish. She does not represent change it will be business as usual with a "D" behind the name versus and "R" with Mrs. Clinton. I am also frustruated by the fact that Mrs. Clinton has never had an original idea in her life and when she used the phrase that we need to "Turn the Page" while standing right next to Barack Obama my jaw dropped – this is a well known phrase that Obama has been using throughout his campaign.

Come on fellow Democrats – get wise. Hillary Clinton is NOT the candidate that will get the Democrats back in the White House. The Republicans will beat her in a general election – they will have her for lunch.

I really think the media is missing the ball again. I thought one of the most telling moments was when Hillary was asked if she would allow archives files be released, and she kept saying let the process work, when in fact her husband as asked that they not be released until 2012

Let’s face it. Mr. Edwards and Mr. Obama are too of a kind. They both believe that Americans are stupid and incapable of making decisions. Both of these men have wasted months of their campaigns attacking Mrs. Clinton and very little time telling us about themselves. If each truly thinks they are the better candidate, they should simply tell us why. They should tell us about themselves and what they would do to save America. So far, all we know is that they have a bizarre, irrational and uncontrollable hatred of Mrs. Clinton. We do not need a candidate or another President whose only qualification is their ability to hate.

Americans are smart and informed and capable of comparing each candidate and deciding who will be better for our nation. We do not need to be taken by the hand and dragged through this mud pit that Mr. Edwards and Mr. Obama have created for themselves. Unfortunately, at every turn, we hear Mr. Obama and Mr. Edwards railing against Mrs. Clinton. These two “men” sound like angry, undisciplined, little children. Any chance these two men had has completely evaporated and they have only themselves to blame. Continually attacking Mrs. Clinton without presenting their alternative plans has made it clear to voters that Mr. Edwards and Mr. Obama are not ready to lead this country. The road that these two have chosen for themselves is a road to the past, not a road to the future and it is not the road to a brighter America.

We have had seven long years of divisiveness and finger pointing in this country and it is time to look to the future. Mr. Obama and Mr. Edwards are so mired in the past that they can’t even see tomorrow, let alone 2008 and beyond. We have had enough of anger, name calling and foot stamping and it is time for America to put aside the bitterness and anger presented by Mr. Edwards and Mr. Obama and think about how we will turn this great nation around.

Edwards and Obama are ruining their chances of being in Hillary's cabinet.

Obama and Edwards both did a very good job of attacking Clinton while not seeming harsh or nonsensical. They made a lot of sense, and there were visible cracks in Hillary's arguments.

This was the best Democratic debate so far this year. We all knew that at least Obama and Edwards had to challenge Hillary on her votes, ideas, and character. Even though Edwards was the sharpest criticizer of Hillary his attacks did approach light personal attacks in some instances. Obama held his ground drew distinctions between himself and Hillary and got in a few digs on some of her confusing responses to questions. I think Obama won this debate with Biden second and Clinton third.

Go Hillary! She is very calculating, extremely articulate, and highly experienced in heavy-weight politics. She is able to change perspective and fine-tune her plans based on careful, intellegent study and learning. This powerful and important quality is critical for competent leadership. Contrast this with a complete, total disregard for learning facts and willingness to change even in light of overwhelming truth contrary to existing beliefs. We could have a nucUlar confrontamation because of our current misdisinformated leader and all of his intellectually lazy and impaired sheep.

We saw a whole debate in which I can't think of one question that Hillary answered forthrightly.

People want to know WHAT candidates stand for NOW and in the General Elections. Voters don't want to vote a candidate as the Democratic Nominee and then find that the candidate was not honest about what they will do as President. It's easier to vote them into the Office of the Presidency then to get them out.

Example; When the average person board a form of transportation, lets say a Bus. When you ask the driver where he is taking you (what is your destination). We want a direct and clear answer. Not a wavering uncommitted unknown answer.

With 2 month before the voting begins. If a candidate cannot/will not state exactly what their positions are. Then that disqualifies that candidate to become President.

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" 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

Senator Obama and Edwards need to wake up and smell the coffee, the enemy is not Clinton. The Republicans are sitting back knowing that the election is lost unless the Democrates self destruct.

If you have nothing other than attacks upon your fellow Democratic canidates, you have nothing. I know what H Clinton voted and why, I know where she stands on the issues and in my mind why. What I am interested in is what Senators Obama and Edwards think about the issues.

Now to take a stance on Iraq, I want out, however I am smart enough to know that regardless of who is in office, Bush has muddled it up enough that we shall have military forces in Iraq for a long time to come, there will be no I am President and we are gone.

So bottom line, stop the attacks and present what you would do, not attack what you think someone else might do.

They are SCARED, VERY SCARED!!!!!....

hope the people of the early voting states see them as they are: people that loose their 'cool' when they feel the preasure!!!

Hope the next 2 debates gives us more of the rest of the candidates...after 15 minutes of the "top-3", I would have left!!!!

And this is why neither of them will win. Instead of focusing on getting a democrat, any democrat, in office, they are acting like children and talking about Clinton. I love how she just sits back and shrugs her shoulders. I wonder if these two know that it only makes them look like a fool. Is anyone really going to vote for someone who constantly nags another person?

Senator Clinton was looking competent until the major dodge about her husband's blocking of the release of documents relating to her "experience" influencing issues while she was First Lady. From there on she seemed to flounder. Senator Dodd seemed a bit desperate instead of the strident tone which must have been his goal; he may nonetheless have made up some ground in comparison to Edwards, Kucinich, and Richardson, but it was Senators Biden and Obama that stood out from the crowd – though I don't think Biden's likely to close the gap on Barack Obama in a cycle where change is the mantra of the Democratic-leaning voters.

a vote for Hillary is a vote for the same ole same. I'm ready for a change. Our country is ready for a change. Barack Obama has got my vote and I'll hold him accountable for "turning the page". I want my Constitution back, and I want an government so the "checks and balances" can actually work.

I expected something like this from Edwards, but not Obama.

They will help her campaign with so many attacks, how dumb of them; just notice how her numbers just stay on top, even after all of these attacks. At least Obama seems to be more in control, Edwards is just about to pop.

Again, the Democratic ticket will be Clinton/Obama.

Thanks to Senator Dodd for raising the issue of Hillary's electability with her likely inability to get more than 50% of the popular vote. The numbers also apply to Obama, so who is number three?

Mrs.Bill Clinton, you seem to forget that you voted for the war. Now you have left our soldiers for political gain.

Clear winners in this debate were Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Edwards, I think got too attacking at times and it took away from his message. Clinton was the clear loser. All debate Edwards and Obama talked about Hillary not answering the questions and she proved that when the immigration question came up.

Hillary says "anyone who has looked at my record..."

Well, that's the problem, Hillary. Your husband and you won't release anything from your First Lady years.

Unbelievable.

How can there be no mention of Clinton's completely botched answer regarding the driver's license program for illegal immigrants in New York?

Tonight was the beginning of the end for Hillary. While we are at it, lets get some fresh faces and perspectives at CNN. Soledad Obrien and the political cronies are either being paid by the Clintons or just blind deaf and dumb. All lovers of Clinton.
News flash : SHE GOT OWNED TONIGHT.

Obama was masterful tonight and presidential in tone, authority and demeanor. He has long been the emotional favorite in this race and is now demonstrating the tough political and strategic qualities that are the characteristics of a true leader. He uses humor, historical/cultural references and his extensive understanding of the issues to communicate his vision for our country while connecting with everyday Americans. There is reason to hope once again. Barack Obama is the one.

GObama 08!!

Wow! This was an eye opener! I'd never imagined that Hillary Clinton could be so terrible. Seriously. She was talking in circles with no substance, she could not take the heat and kept going back to her rehearsed lines...As for leadership qualities, Obama, Edwards, Biden or Dodd, any one of them was so much better! If she could not handle this, how can she handle Republicans, much less Iranians, Arabs, Russians... wow...

Why are the Clintons not releasing Hillary's records. If that is what is running on, I think we the supporters need to know what her record is.

Stunning performance by tagteam Barack Obama and John Edwards!

Obama/Edwards 2008

Bravo Barack – you shone tonight, not because you criticized Hillary period, but because of how you did it, with elegance and surgical precision.

Obama looked relaxed but fired up, regal and energetic, and gave the country a good showing of why he is the best candidate. He managed to be direct and substantive in his answers. He looked alert an keen.

He just made a giant stride in the direction of the White House. This is a good day for America.

I am an Obama supporter, but most confess to liking Edwards debate style better. Fitting as he was a trial lawyer as opposed to a professor. Hillary was bombarded as expected and she weathered the blows for a bit. Her wheels did fall off at the end though. I am for any candidate save Hillary as this is too important an election to send someone that over 50% of the public will never vote for.

I now understand Senator Obama
-Phase I: Get out around the country and introduce himself to American people (e.g...24,000 in NYC; 4,500 in Charlottesville, VA; 6,000 in Tempe, AZ; 15,000 in Oakland)

-Phase II: Draw distinctions between himself and Senator Clinton -–>>When people are paying attention (read: now)

Unlike most of us who read these tickers and blogs daily, most Americans outside of D.C. and NYC are not at all in tune with the daily in & out of the campaign.

Senator Obama has capitalized on this.

FACT: No democratic front-runner in October went on to win the nomination in the past forty years.

FACT: Obama is gaining in early state polls.

PREDICTION: Obama wins Iowa and S.C. and goes on to win the nomination in mid-February after the Virginia vote.

Over a year ago I was entranced with the possibility of a woman President and thought I would surely support Senator Clinton if she ran. I heard Senator Obama speak in Iowa at Tom Harkins Steak Fry before he was even a possible candidate. I was thoroughly amazed by him in person and his remarkable honesty, humility, and thinking capacity. I also was sure that John Edwards was running and was certainly earnest and dedicated. Tonight nearly 16 months later I observed the following. Senator Clinton is verbally skillful but more an artful dodger and that made me sad as a woman. Women do not need to dodge they need to be clear and trustworthy. Senator Edwards is so articulate and still earnest and makes sense. I like him. However, Senator Obama amazes me because he is not in a box. He is humble, flexible in his thinking, a new face for the world, a citizen for the world, and most important of all–honest.

The framing of this debate in the media bothers me. Hillary Clinton was not overwhelmingly attacked and criticized. She was merely trying to appear as competent as the other candidates and failed. The issue always has to go back her lead in still uncertain polls... The media these days is biased. I say this as a woman who would love to see a fellow woman as president, but not Hillary Clinton.

Senator Obama certainly stepped up to the plate by articulating WHY Senator Clinton does not and can not represent the kind of change this country needs.
By directly pointing to her refusal to help get the Clinton presidential papers on record is both hypocritical, since she uses her access at that time to argue for her experience mantle, and part of the current politics of secrecy and obfuscation that obliterate any chance of true scrutiny by the American people of how decisions are made by our elected officials.

Senator Obama was the clear winner. Smart, intelligent, thoughtful and confident. He was successful to draw distinction between him and Clinton without being personal. Edwards did well too but he was a little too aggressive but he was passionate. Clinton was the one who showed that she is too calculating and change opinion based on which direction the wind is blowing. She can not take a stand without political calculation or poll results. She lost a lot of credibility tonight. This may very well be the beginning of her ending. On MSNBC.com debate performance poll, 70% of the people are saying she avoided answers and/or she delivered the most scripted response. Brian and Tim did fantastic to bring the real candidates out.

Sen. Clinton was the focus of some of the debate only because the moderators were asking questions about her. I, and I believe most others, were confused by most of her answers. Did she support policy X or Y or did she oppose policy X or Y? She never would say.

From her answers to the questions, and to the follow ups from the moderators, it was clear that her goal was to avoid answering any questions about anything. If she can’t face up to questions in a forum of all democrats, how can we believe her if she somehow is elected?

She just fell apart tonight. All of the double talk and lying just keeps leaking out no matter how hard she tries to control. I liked her comment regarding science and math. She did what her president told her... Gee that's the kind of president I want, a dictator.

WOW! Obama was incredible tonight! Well he just won my vote! Richardson was awful and Hillary tanked badly!

Obama and Edwards did very well tonight. Obama got better as things went on and had some really great moments, such as the "turn the page" comment, the one about the Republicans being very comfortable fighting her and the points he made about Iran and Kyl-Lieberman. Obama is absolutely correct that he will have more credibility with the Muslim and Arab countries since he was opposed to the war in Iraq. Hillary absolutely could not make that same statement.

To me, the best thing about the debate was that Hillary's evasiveness was finally directly called out for all to see. It's been there all along, but to see her just stand there and try to take both sides of a position was just priceless. Thanks to Dodd for calling her on it and then Edwards and Obama were great at not letting that moment go by.

Richardson's "holier-than-thou" comment was, perhaps, the most laughable and he did further damage to himself tonight because of it. There were no ad hominem attacks against Ms. Clinton, simply discussion about her positions (or lack thereof) and why she is not the best candidate to lead the nation. Richardson trusts Hillary Clinton? That pretty much proves that he lacks the judgment needed to be the next President.

Clinton did a great job presenting her ideas while fending off the ridiculous schoolboy attacks from two rivals who were just trying to make last-minute, do or die power plays to boost themselves in the polls. She again showed her command of the complex issues while refusing to allow herself to be "jackpotted" by simplistic and silly political games. She smart, thoughtful and professional . . . just what we need as a President. The others basically just showed themselves as petty politicians.

The debate needed more time for Biden I find his vast knowledge of foreign affairs is something this debate needed. Biden was right when he told Chris Matthews after the debate that Clinton was wrong about giving drivers licences to Illegals and her recent bad judgement vote in congress. Hillary what are you thinking?

Go Gett'm Madame President!!

Personally, their criticism didn't work for me. It was like MSNBC, Obama, and Edwards came together and said "lets trash this lady and make the race interesting." It came off as rediculously childish and did nothing for either of them in my opinion. Richardson however, gained some points for me as did Biden.

Key word: "Experience" which of the frontrunners has it? Hillary bc she lived in the White House... no. Obama cuz he's been a Senator for a few years... no. Edwards with his failed campaign in 04'... no. I hate to say it but I really don't like our supposed 'frontrunners'. None of them have the experience, which Bush didn't have either, to be president. I'm gonna be hard pressed to vote in another president who is going to make the amateurish mistakes that Bush has been making just because the media tells me that 400 people say that these guys are the frontrunners.

Great job Senator Obama! And John Edwards was no slouch either.

Hillary exposed. Finally.

It is time to stop this train wreck. She will kill the demcrats in 08.
Barack/Edwards 08

They all made good points. However, not one of them favors raising taxes for the middle-class or small businesses which is the primary terroristic threat ALL Republicans keep trying to fool and scare American voters with. In fact, they were all for giving us a break!

The truth is, it's the middle-class and small businesses that are the ones making up the difference for taxes not being paid by the ultra rich and mulit-national corporations due to the GOP (Greedy Old Party) tax cuts.

They did not knock her out or bring her down to knee level not at all, she is strong lady,little thing on drivers license,thats a state thing.she is right they are on our roads,and wonder if we get into an accident with one that is illegal,they have no Id.So what is that governor of NYC suppose to do.no immigration reformed passed at all.from bush.hes ignore it.why dont they give chairs for these canidates to sit down,2 hours standing with hradly any movement .like there in the army.
Horray for Hillary!!!

bring down the clinton machine piece by piece.

Obama nailed it. Half the time Clinton didn't make sense. She never once, NOT ONCE actually answered a question in a straight forward manner.

Edwards did great as well, but Obama stole the night for me. he's hands down the winner and I love when he called out Clinton on immigration, saying what I'm sure most of America was thinking. She gave a flip flop answer to the question and said nothing at all.\

Obama 08!!

Wow, I am a Senator Clinton supporter but tonight I definitely got confused and did not understand a lot of her answers. What was up with the N.Y. drivers license answer? I did notice that all the other candidates stepped up their attacks on Clinton, which can be a good thing for everyone. The debate however did not make clear any other candidate worthy enough to change my vote. I am still inclined to vote for Senator Clinton, but she definitely needs to clarify some of her answers. Unlike many people(liberals), I do understand her vote for the Kyl-Lieberman bill, especially since she has already said publicly that she is not giving permission for the President to go to war with Iran, just stating that Iran can be classified as a terrorist group. It is not the same kind of bill that authorized the Iraq War.

So my support for Clinton has dwindled after tonight's debate, but not enough to change my support for her over any candidate so far.

I think Obama don't have a rock to stand on; and Clinton was really on the spot tonight, but she handled it very well.

The only ones that I believe will even really survive in this race are Clinton and Edwards.

But Clinton they criticized for already acting like President, I don't think there is anythign wrong with that.

Afterall, its a title.

What you do with it. Is what matters most.

Another criticism of Hillary is that she won't state her position on NY's desire to give illegals drivers' licenses.

Q Why doesn't she come right out and say what her stance is on illegals driving here.?

A She wants to see which way the wind is blowing first. You know she's in favor of it since it will eventually add more poor people to the voter rolls.

Here's the democrats doing what they do best–tearing each other to shreds.

Hillary wants to have it both ways, she got exposed tonight.

"At tonight’s debate, Barack Obama demonstrated the real choice in this race. On issues from Social Security to Iran to being open with the America people about her record, Senator Clinton offered more of the same Washington calculation, ducking and dodging that won’t bring the change America needs. Barack Obama demonstrated the kind of leadership that will bring change we can trust – the ability to bring this country together, stand up to the special interests, and tell the American people not just what we think they want to hear, but what they need to know about the challenges we face. That’s the kind of leadership Barack Obama has demonstrated through his two decades of service to America, and that’s what he’ll offer as President of the United States."

The quick summary: Clinton attacked Bush; Obama, Edwards and Dodd attacked Clinton; Kucinich attacked everybody; and Biden delivered clever one-liners. Read the full rundown at Campaign Diaries.

I am now a Hillary fan.

Goodby Barack.

God Hillary is great. All those men going after her tonight and she stood her ground and never once went negative.

Go Hillary. Don't let anyone stop you now.

her answers was very clear...too bad some candidates either are not smart enough or just dont care to listen to sen. clinton.

HILLARY 2008!!!

She is a southern democrat. George Wallace & wife Lurleen are the models that Her & Bill use. Say anything to anyone at anytime that might get a vote. It works, She is just old school Washington politics. She talks of her record. Voted for the Iraq war, opening says she wont pull troops out of Iraq, says all options are open in Iran. Has promised health care for all. Its the Clinton Bush dynasty with her instead of George, no wonder her husband & George Sr get along so well.
At least Obama & Edwards say they will do something different. her record proves she's just another old school politician. Talk Talk Talk! no change.

You can't fool all of the people all of the time. Clinton's smoke & mirrors...her evasiveness...her convoluted answers...she has run a very cautious & careful campaign. The mask is off now.

Santa Clause, Tooth Fairies, and 99 Counties. You sound quite Presidential, Mr Edwards.

Richardson is sooo playing for second place its not even funny. Aside from that, everything John Edwards said about Clinton is true. We need someone who is better able to defend working families and our jobs. Edwards is far above the clintons (nafta) when it comes to that.

They sound more like featherweights than heavy weights.

WOOOW,
The best debate by Obama so far. I am waiting for the Clintonistas. I ended up feeling so sorry for Hillary she should not have showed up at the debate. She added a new line on her resume of flip-flopping, the one about support for Gov. Spitzer issuing driving licenses to illegal immigrants. That is a record Hillary, flip-flop in 2 minutes! She also added a new line on her resume of vague answers by saying that it is not her decision if president to release records of her in the whitehouse that Bill asked not to be released. Another blaring difference is when Tim told her that the person who said social security was on the verge of collapse was Bill Clinton, that was after Hillary had said that that notion of collapse was a Republican talking point, woow. I know we all said that Obama should not attack but this was the most effective way he has ever shown contrasting differences with Hillary. No more Mr Nice guy for Obama and woow it worked this time, cannot wait for the Clintonistas!

Hillary, you are borrowing quotes from George Bush's campaign. He also clearly stated he was gone to change the tone in Washington. So do we call you George Junior ?

I didn't hear any praising of our free market system; I didn't hear them praise our Declaration of Independence; I didn't hear them praise our police and firefighters; all I heard was a demand for bigger govt and more spending of our taxes.

I guess if you don't know what else to say, then you step on the Champ. Edwards should stick to counting counties and Obama should stick to Dick Cheney relations.

all i can say is thank god brian williams was moderating.

sharpton '08!

Wow, Clinton sure was off her game tonight. It will be interesting to see how the Clinton camp spins this to make it seem like she didn't completely botch that one. Finally it's coming out that she's been avoiding giving definite answers on almost anything that's at all controversial.

None of these people should be throwing around the insults and criticisms, since few Democratic candidates have much to show in the way of fiscally responsible spending. That's the first job of Washington IMO.

all i can say is ... thank god brian williams was moderating.

With Clinton holding a huge lead among Democrats in national opinion polls ahead of the November 2008 election, rivals Barack Obama, John Edwards, Chris Dodd, Bill Richardson and Joseph Biden all took turns aiming shots at the New York senator in hopes of bringing her back to the pack.

Who do you think won the Philadelphia NBC – MSNBC News Democratic Presidential Debate?
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