November 30, 2007
Posted: November 30th, 2007 09:37 AM ET

There is a place for Bill Clinton in an Obama administration.

WASHINGTON (CNN) - Democrat Barack Obama has become increasingly critical of presidential rival Hillary Clinton as the primaries draw near, but when it comes to the New York senator's famous husband, Obama has nothing but praise.

In an interview with Time Magazine that hits newsstands Friday, the Illinois Democrat said he'd offer the former president a job in his administration "in a second."

"There are few more talented people," Obama said.

Obama's comment follows heightened attacks on Clinton over her assertions that the White House experience she gained during her husband’s administration forms a valuable part of her qualifications to hold the office herself.

"I don’t think Michelle would claim that she is the best qualified person to be a United States senator by virtue of me talking to her on occasion about the work that I’ve done," Obama said in an interview with ABC earlier this week.

Obama's mantra of 'change' is often interpreted as an implicit criticism of the politics of the Clinton administration, but the Illinois senator has generally refrained from direct swipes at the former president himself.

(A rare exception came during a light moment on the campaign trail last weekend, when Obama took Bill Clinton to task for saying during his 1992 presidential bid that he had smoked marijuana, but never inhaled.

"I never understood that line," Obama said, to laughter from the crowd. "The point was to inhale. That was the point.")

In the same interview with Time, Obama also said he would be happy to offer Al Gore a position in his administration tackling climate change issues.

"He has been working on this for decades," Obama said. "The country and the world caught up to him."

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Bill Clinton


s. backlund   January 14th, 2008 2:58 am ET

Did Obama notice that it was only the Iowa Caucas he won? "A defining moment in history" might describe a NOMINATION of the first Black candidate for president, but surely not little old Iowa's primary! This man is a little ahead of himself, in my opinion. Yes, it was a good speech-for someone who just won a presidential election! He reminds me of a little boy who is unsure of himself, so he pets his ego a lot. And scoffs at those who question him. Scoffing is something that does not go over well–just ask Al Gore. Maybe the rest of the campaign will teach him humility. He wants to be known for it, but he does not embody it–yet.

RuthieM   December 1st, 2007 4:18 pm ET

Obama will get the nomination. Obama will win the election. It cracks me up how the media asks questions the candidate has to answer and when the candidate gives the answer it is written as if the candidate volunteered the question when all he did was answer the question, like this one about Bill Clinton in an Obama administration.

Joe, FLorida   December 1st, 2007 2:43 pm ET

Obama is out of Bill's League.

Bill is too good!

stan pitts pa   December 1st, 2007 12:17 pm ET

JD, des moines, iowa, "Obama will never get elected" is true statement.
Ken, San Diego, Obama lies for his propaganda, I agree with you we should vote Hillary and take back TWO CLINTONS White House, great idea. Elizabeth, Chicago, IL, what a great remark by you. Obama supporters don't care about our Country's future, they just care about ignorant and insulting Michelle and sexist political stunt.

Posted By Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky : December 1, 2007 4:52 am

wow dude take a chill pill, its ok to support your candidate ok thats what america is all about, i just dont get why you are so mad at obama supporters, they defend their candidate at every turn, which is good, shows they beleive in him and care about this country, at least obama inspires them enough to go out and vote when the time comes, your rants on her are borderline racist, i can almost smell it, relax God bless, obama 08!

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky   December 1st, 2007 4:52 am ET

JD, des moines, iowa, "Obama will never get elected" is true statement.
Ken, San Diego, Obama lies for his propaganda, I agree with you we should vote Hillary and take back TWO CLINTONS White House, great idea. Elizabeth, Chicago, IL, what a great remark by you. Obama supporters don't care about our Country's future, they just care about ignorant and insulting Michelle and sexist political stunt.

Dan, TX   December 1st, 2007 3:33 am ET

If you are a supporter of Hillary I guess Obama would seem arrogant. But the reality is that no one is more arrogant than Clinton.

She's married to one of the most arrogant people in the world. One who thought having an affair while in the White House was more important than protecting his legacy and his party from scandal. She's got a chip on her shoulder, and it shows.

To Clinton supporters: Why do you think Obama is rising in the polls? Because he lacks experience or because he does have the experience and judgment needed to be president from day one?

Are people in Iowa just plain stupid, and that's why Obama's support is rising and Hillary's support is static? Or is Obama simply better presidential material than Clinton and the truth is being learned in Iowa?

Lo, Pittsburgh, PA   November 30th, 2007 9:50 pm ET

Has anyone noticed how condescending Obama has become in the last month?

Len, Fallbrook, CA   November 30th, 2007 1:44 pm ET

Slick Willy could run Internal Affairs...

Al Gore would be in the Dep't of Energy....

Sandy Berger could run Security..

Great Team!

Eric, from THE Republic of Texas   November 30th, 2007 1:38 pm ET

"Bill Clinton in an Obama Administration?"

Why yes! See him right there, next to all of Obama's pretty young female campaign workers??

"Whuts yer name, hunny?"

stan pitts pa   November 30th, 2007 1:16 pm ET

Obama has enough people on hand to work for him in his administration, as he has said he is gonna reach out to republicans and democrats alike to form a strong cabinet, he doesnt need bill, when hillary loses bill just might need him.

Anonymous   November 30th, 2007 12:33 pm ET

Even Hillary's husband likes Obama better! You Obama haters need to get a grip! Everything this guy does only shows his diversity and the ability to work with people even in the midst of competition and opposition. I guess the problem so many of you are having with him is that he displays...ummmm humanistic behavior!!! He's actually a real human with feelings, emotions, and rationale...not a programmed political robot! Wake the hell up people!

KS, Texas   November 30th, 2007 12:23 pm ET

This is worse than an attack ad. Why would you want him in your cabinet Obama....BECAUSE YOU'D HAVE NO CLUE HOW TO DO IT YOURSELF.

Bad move Bill. But then again, you've always made bad moves. Hillary should kick your....

NOT OBAMA '08

(If this gets posted....I'll be AMAZED!)

Marie VanDyke Royal Oak Michigan   November 30th, 2007 12:00 pm ET

i said all the time the man is a flip flopper ..bill is hillary husband he wants bill but thinks hillary cant be president,,is this guy playing with a full deck

Darrel @Lone Rock Iowa   November 30th, 2007 11:49 am ET

Obama don't nail your foot to the floor with slick willie!!
Your much much better than that

Peter, Wrentham MA   November 30th, 2007 11:30 am ET

a page straight out of abraham lincoln...maybe bush one should be called back into action.

ki houston   November 30th, 2007 11:14 am ET

for all of you that look at electabilty , in the latest poll hillary loses to all the top5 repubs. and obama beats the top 5 repubs. by almost dubble digits on each . too bad clinton supporters you are just telling lies as for as electabilty .

dmw, roeland park, ks   November 30th, 2007 11:13 am ET

As much as Obama has talked badly about Hillary, I think it is silly to seriously think Bill Clinton would accept anything from Obama if he became President. No Southern states will vote for a black man, sorry, but that is true. Obama will not become President, so the point is moot.

Al Gore has already suggested many times that he loves what his currently doing for the world and I doubt he would take a position with Obama as well.

Some of the comments make me laugh because some of you all really seem to believe this is a possibility. The Obama supporters are living in a dream world.

Philadelphia, Richmond, VA   November 30th, 2007 11:06 am ET

Elizabeth from Chicago said it best. A disappointingly sexist and wildly off-the-mark comment from Obama about Hillary's experience. If I were Obama's wife, I'd be pretty mad – he makes it sound like his "little woman" just can't grasp what Mr. Man does all day.

NY, NY   November 30th, 2007 10:57 am ET

If the democrats pick Obama, can they teach him the Pledge of Allegiance at least? Also, I wonder what Obama's wife thinks about her husband admiring an adulterous liar and celebrity wannabe. If I wanted to run for president, I certainly wouldn't hang out with Slick Willy.

Alan Rindge, New Hampshire   November 30th, 2007 10:53 am ET

An indication of a good leader is the people he or she brings in to help achieve goals. Obama will do that. Bill Clinton and Al Gore would be great additions to an Obama administration. Barack Obama has much common sense and that is greatly needed in the White House.

Cindy, Fairborn, OH   November 30th, 2007 10:36 am ET

Obama's rudderless. Can you say "pandering?" One vote lost.

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   November 30th, 2007 10:31 am ET

Aren't we a tad bit arrogant Sen. Obama?

With less than 3 years experience in the US senate you think that you will be elected president?

Why vote for a surrogate when we can have the original?

Vote for Hillary and we'll also get Bill as her trusted advisor.

LoooseyGoosey   November 30th, 2007 10:23 am ET

Clinton's begging for an internship on the Obama/Bloomberg ticket..

Ahtram, Oakton, Virginia   November 30th, 2007 10:00 am ET

What's Bill Clinton doing with one of those "Old Boys" who was giving his wife a rough time?

Bill and Hillary: "Is you is or is you aint?"

Dan, TX   November 30th, 2007 9:56 am ET

Barack will listen to advise from all sides before making a decision, Clinton, Hagel, Bloomberg, Bush. Then he'll make the right decision. We need someone with judgment. If we wanted experience, we wouldn't have a limit of two terms for president.

MaryAnn Oswego Il   November 30th, 2007 9:52 am ET

So now even OBAMA wants the experience that the CLINTON administration brings to the 08 elections...Hilary Clinton will be our next PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES because of her experience and her caring of all AMERICANS ...HILARY 08

Jeff Indianapolis   November 30th, 2007 9:52 am ET

Facts are facts. Hillary is claiming she has more experience than Obama. Her elected experience is 6 years in the senate. Obama has 11 years of elected experience. 3 in the senate, 8 in the IL senate. If Hillary is saying state experience doesnt matter then her husband had no experience either. He was a governor an attorney general, of a STATE. I f Hillary would like to claim her experience as the wife of a president in the private sector...ok. Obama can then call upon his years of community outreach in New York and Chicago, not to metion being a constitutional law professor. Please be informed about facts and notbe blinded by misleading information.

Dan, NJ   November 30th, 2007 9:51 am ET

People touting the "experience" card are mere victims of Hillary Clinton's political machine. Think about whatever you do for a living. Now, assuming your spouse does something different, does living with you qualify your spouse to do your job? Would you let your doctor's spouse perform surgery on you? Would you allow your attorney's spouse to use his/her valuable "spousal experience" to represent you in open court?

WAKE UP PEOPLE. George W. Bush currently has the most experience to serve as president in the post-9/11 world. So rating experience as an important issue puts you on the "Bush is most qualified" side of politics. Like Clinton for her brains or dislike Obama for his policies, but leave "experience" out of it.

And for the posters who called Obama stupid (or some variation thereof), the man was editor of the Harvard Law Review. That means he was one of the 2 or 3 smartest law students in the country at the time. Very likely smarter than you or me.

Brian, Silver Spring, MD   November 30th, 2007 9:39 am ET

"Wow.. how hypocritical. He throws veiled criticism at the former Clinton administration, saying he'd bring needed change, and then turns around and says he'd have the head of that very same administration in his.

I used to really like this guy, from back before he ran. The more I hear about him the less I like, though. He's not bringing needed change. He's just a clown.
Posted By Just me : November 30, 2007 8:20 am "

He wants to have it both ways. Backstabbing and flattering at the same time.
Honesty and above the fray? you must be kidding me.
The right experience the America needs now must come from that of a boy living in a foreign country at the age of 10? He doesnt know what he is talking about man. Very politically immature.

A Voter in N.Y.   November 30th, 2007 9:35 am ET

This may have been a nail in Obama's political coffin. The only reason that he has any support with many republicans and democrats is that he is against Hillary.

His association with her husband will not bode well for many.

Dave, Chverely MD   November 30th, 2007 9:32 am ET

This post plants in the minds of Voters that like Bill Clinton and do NOT like Hillary, but were thinking of voting for Hillary to have access to Bill.

Obama is showing that voters can vote for Obama whom voters do like and still have access to Bill. It is a smart move on Obama's part.

BM, Fairfax, VA   November 30th, 2007 9:31 am ET

The Bush and Clinton families would have been in the Whitehouse 20 yrs when GW is done. If Hillary wins, you can add on another 4 years at least with our country being run by the same two families. No thanks.
Obama 08

Lola James, Wilmington, North Carolina   November 30th, 2007 9:31 am ET

Go Obama Go!!! North Carolina! Hey look up my cousins Newspaper: The Wilmington Journal! Check Wilmingon, North Carolina out. Clintons, Edwards, Obama and anyone but George Bush!!!!

Anonymous   November 30th, 2007 9:27 am ET

Anyone is better than what we have right now. This administration is very underhanded. They move in and out so the public cannot really see the changes they have and are making. Chaney and Rice disappear constantly. In those times you'll see old George and Laura smiling in the media while Chaney and Rice are hard at work God knows where doing what. Then, Chaney comes back with heart problems and we get a glance at Rice somewhere in the Middle East. When people see what Chaney has done and what they have changed people are going to be highly upset. Chaney is changing bills and doing all the dirty work while suffering supposedly with his heart problems.

So, Obama and Clintons and our man from NC Edwards would be a welcome sight. And I am praying for them 100%.

This administration presently is about oil, money and power. Look at Halyburton website. You should see that company and the new equipment and hiring too. And look out privacy is no longer privacy. And just wait. Whoever gets this job will have one more mess to cleanup.

Aaron Smithsburg, Maryland   November 30th, 2007 9:22 am ET

Ron Paul has my vote in the primaries, but I will support Barack Obama if it comes down to it, what he lacks in experience he makes up for in inspiration. I really enjoy his wife Michelle, way more upstairs than our current deer in the headlight first lady. But I will never vote for another Clinton. They are corporate swindlers, maybe not as bad as the Bush family, but just as corrupted.

Bill, Richmond, VA   November 30th, 2007 9:21 am ET

Obama can offer all the positions in the cabinet to Bill Clinton and Al Gore that he can think of...but, why would they accept? Both are in positions to effect change AND make huge amounts of money!

OTOH, it is VERY smart for Obama to mention both of them, as they continue to be highly popular among demographics that Democrats need to win the White House.

To those of you supporting Hilary over Obama (or anyone else) please give me a reason to support her. I am presently an undecided Democrat planning to vote in the Virginia primary.

lagos nigeria   November 30th, 2007 9:19 am ET

I love Barak Obama but his Africa American antecedent will work against him american are still racial, Hillary is also a very good candidate but american is still male chauvinistic, if Democrat is not careful they may miss this chance to Republican war monger

Ryan, New Jersey   November 30th, 2007 8:57 am ET

Why is Obama any less electable on a national scale than Hillary is? Hillary only energizes the Republican base and drives them out to vote against her! On top of THAT, if Obama is the nominee we can have a candidate that voted for the war versus a candidate that came out against it, early. If Hillary is the nominee it's just the lesser of two evils for the swing voters, and I'm not at all convinced they'd choose Hillary over any of the neo-cons, cause heck, she might as well be one.

Mike, Fredericksburg VA   November 30th, 2007 8:57 am ET

Well ain't that just dandy. Why doesn't Barack concede the point by saying that if he "wins" the presidency, the real power behind the throne will be Bill, Al, and Hillary.
I can see it now: HillBilly medical care (whatever Granny can brew up in the cement pond); while Al bloviates (preys on our fears) about global warming whne jetting about.

Andy, New York, New York   November 30th, 2007 8:55 am ET

For all Bubba's 'intern shenanigans', polls-addiction and gamesmanship, he truly was okay by the American economy. Sadly, he was a dud when it came to foreign policy – especially dealing with our sworn foreign enemies who blossomed on his watch. But unlike cool hand Bill, Hill comes across as power hungry, manipulative, vindictive, conniving and even desperate. For all her national political heavyweight stature, it has to be instructive to note political lightweight Obama is breathing down her neck in national polls. And the element of TRUST is her biggest liability. She bends with the winds, and that's not good for strong and steady leadership at this crucial time.

Christopher Lester Grundy, Virginia   November 30th, 2007 8:48 am ET

Could you imagine another Clinton in administration I think I would cry!!

Binta Ouedraogo, Oceanside, California   November 30th, 2007 8:37 am ET

Barak Obama, is probably one of the most important political figures who would positively change 'Politics' for the United States-at a national and International level. I believe the man has a chance at winning the presidency as long as he keeps pulling in minority votes.
After 8 years of Bush as president, Obama could bring a breath of fresh air to Americans.
I trust in him! VOTE OBAMA for 2008!He holds the keys to a brighter and better future for generations to come.

Kameron Richter, Harrison AR   November 30th, 2007 8:25 am ET

I've not yet decided who I will vote for in 2008, but I believe that Barack Obama's assertion that his converstations with Ms. Obama would not qualify her to be a Senator areis correct, but out of context.

If Ms. Obama had been a top 100 attorney in the nation before his election to the post and if she had served as a representative after that time, I believe that her conversations with him become much more important in her argument for the job.

In this case, it is a collection of experiences...attorney, First Lady of Arkansas, First Lady and Senator that all have an impact – to varying degrees.

Corporate America will have a two page job description, with half dedicated to required education or experience for the job of President of a company; political America, however, requires only age minimum, citizenship and lack of certain criminal offenses to qualify. Oh...you also need to have – or have access to – A LOT of cash.

Just me   November 30th, 2007 8:20 am ET

Wow.. how hypocritical. He throws veiled criticism at the former Clinton administration, saying he'd bring needed change, and then turns around and says he'd have the head of that very same administration in his.

I used to really like this guy, from back before he ran. The more I hear about him the less I like, though. He's not bringing needed change. He's just a clown.

Anonymouse, NY, NY   November 30th, 2007 8:09 am ET

To the poster that describes this as a "smooth move," I thought that what Obama supporters appreciated in their candidate was his absence of guile. Sounds like Obama's campaign wants to have it both ways.

Eric, MD   November 30th, 2007 8:06 am ET

One anti-American, pot smoking hippie deserves another. I guess osama wants tips on how to imitate bill's role as philanderer-in-chief.

I'm surprised Hillary didn't plant her husband in the CNN debate... oh, sorry... then the Clinton News Network would not be able to claim "ignorance" for planting a mole (or 20).

Jim, Columbus, OH   November 30th, 2007 8:04 am ET

This is a joke..."Bill Clinton may be questionable as a human being, but he needs to be sent back to the White House?" The fact that Bill Clinton is so popular with some people shows only that there are some seriously confused voters out there. Obama's statement gives one more reason NOT to vote for him. Indeed, I would sooner vote for Hillary Clinton if she would distance herself from her husband. As that's not going to happen, neither Clinton nor Obama will get my vote...

jack, ny, ny   November 30th, 2007 8:00 am ET

It is interesting to see how arrogant Obama supporters are. They would love to see Bill working with Obama. Sorry Bill doesn't need a job. Obama would need help because he knows he is not capable of doing anything of his own that is why he pretty much wants clinton administration in to WH. SO WHY NOT HAVE IT WITH HILLARY? Who needs Obama. Sorry Obama- Bill and ALgore are not going to train you.

Shawn MacGregor, Bemidji, MN   November 30th, 2007 7:56 am ET

Clinton VP to Obama? I'd change my vote from Hillary in a nanosecond. Especially with Al Gore in the Administration! Would it be the straw that breaks the camel's back for the Clinton's marraige, though?

KEITH JAMES LOUTTIT   November 30th, 2007 7:53 am ET

Well, Alex, it looks like you don't like my comments? Every comment I post on your articles, don't get displayed. Why is that?

Jo, ATL GA   November 30th, 2007 7:49 am ET

whoa... This guy just set his wife back to the stone age... what she won't learn from your talks? What is it? Rocket science? Is she that dumb. Maybe she should not speak at events then since she does not lear form speakin gto you?

No wonder she claims you are a bum! Barack You are a good guy...stick to good thoughts.

AJ; Montpelier, VT   November 30th, 2007 7:44 am ET

Being a senator's wife and being the First Lady are 2 vastly different things. Hillary Clinton was very involved in national policy making while First Lady. And as for Michelle Obama gaining experience from her husband's experience in the Senate, how could she gain such experience when he does not show up for work half the time. Obama cant be bothered to show up for votes.

Sankar, Schaumburg IL   November 30th, 2007 7:43 am ET

Not so sure about Al Gore and his climate dramatics. Esp. when it says the developed countries shoot themselves in the foot and the rich in the developing countries get richer by ignoring emission standards.

Brian Tampa, FL   November 30th, 2007 7:39 am ET

Two losers for the price of one, what a bargain. Neither has to worry because neither will be seeing the White House anytime soon.

BCNU purple state, usa   November 30th, 2007 7:25 am ET

I keep hearing how Bill Clinton gave us a 'national surplus'. That 'surplus' was OUR money. Where did it come from? Our pockets.

I'm not exusing the current group from anything, they spend spend spend because there is no check or balance.

Politicians of any party will spend incessantly if they have a complicit congress and no one to try and stop them.

Democrats will look fiscally conservative when a Republican is in the White House because they'll oppose everything. Republicans look fiscally conservative when there's a Dem in the White House because they oppose everything.

One need look no further than LBJ or Jimmy Carter to see what can happen when you have homogenous legislative and executive control.

Christopher, Philadelphia, PA   November 30th, 2007 7:25 am ET

It is amazing that someone that so praises Bill Clinton doesnt realize the value of the genious parter he has in his wife. What puzzles me the most is anyone that praizes Obama simply because he is a black man that speaks well...GEESH!!! So am I! ..but that doesnt qualify one for the White House. Would I vote form him because he is black? Of course not. I'd only vote for a candidate that I thought could get us out of the mess that Bush and Cheney has put us into. IT IS OBVIOUS THAT THE CLINTONS HAVE DONE IT ONCE...Republican or Democrat, you better be seeking someone that can fix this mess again.

Hillarylover - SA   November 30th, 2007 7:17 am ET

Obama is full of it. First he talks how Clinton wasn't all that and now wow he wants him in his "fantasy" administration. That's all it is – a fantasy – dream, etc............

Geoff, Houston, Texas   November 30th, 2007 7:11 am ET

Seems that virtually every comment is supportive of the Democrats/Liberals. And No One who read this article said anything negative?

Wow, the US is much more unified than I though. Unless, could it be, that this is yellow journalism at its' finest?
Yes, I happen to know of some comments that were submitted, bu other than myself, yet they aren't present.
Hey CNN, keep on promoting the liberal agenda, with inexperienced and or corrupt politicians.
Thanks, this country is bad enough, at least it will get worse if you get your way. More news to report I reckon.

Blayze Kohime, Columbus, Ohio   November 30th, 2007 6:56 am ET

Well, I don't think Bill Clinton cannot hold any position that would put him in line to become president, and I believe most cabinet positions are considered 'in line' even though a number of people would all have to die at the same time for them to actually become president.

WIlly, Chesapeake, VA   November 30th, 2007 6:39 am ET

Maybe we can get CNN to do another U-Tube debate with loaded questions and plants in the room to ask questions and comment on how good this would all be for the America. Get Judy Woodruff to emce, she can cry tears of joy like on TV like she did when Geroge Bush beat Al Gore in 2000.

Charles Rossignol, Islamorada, FL   November 30th, 2007 6:32 am ET

What is with the plant by CNN during the debate? This is why your viewer/readership is in the tank. Booo

Just say NO to barack Winfrey   November 30th, 2007 6:20 am ET

Obama administration...WE ARE STILL LAUGHING...
maybe he would be more helpful to Oprah to run her school, since the girls are being abused...
BTW OPRAH? maybe you should concentrate on your school instead of trying to buy a black presidental candidate...

Tim, Cincinnati, OH   November 30th, 2007 6:17 am ET

If Obama would pick Bill Clinton for a job in his administration, then I'm reconsidering my vote for Obama. What happened to "change" and "the future," Barack???

Cody Harding, Kinsley, KS   November 30th, 2007 6:07 am ET

It's not a bad move for Obama, and in essence clears up the doubts of 'lack of experience' by sourcing a former president and vice president for advice.

Obama is a good man, and a person who would do well as the next president. However, there are still a few people there who would do well as president, as well. Best of luck, Senator. You may need it.

Jaik , chicago, IL   November 30th, 2007 6:06 am ET

Bill is one of the greatest political minds of the era, of course he would be part of any Democrat's administration. Of course there won't be a democraic administration, because CNN is going to help Hillary beat the democrats and she could never win over any of the 51% that voted for Buush Jr.

Mark Herald NH   November 30th, 2007 5:56 am ET

An Obama admin would be on the Oprah show, not the white house! This guy is a joke...he's no where even near Clintons league
VOTE FOR CLINTON 2008

mark wilkes barre pa   November 30th, 2007 5:52 am ET

after all the years of hate mail towards Dick cheney running the whitehouse, wouldn't this scenerio be exactly the same but in reverse ??? Why does'nt hillary just come out and say if you vote for me your voting my husband back in office ? she has nothing to run on anyway ,what could it hurt /

Andrew, Torrance, California   November 30th, 2007 4:53 am ET

Heh. It doesn't work like that. Senators' wives or husbands don't live in the White House and Senator Obama knows it.

Senator Obama isn't going to win by that saying that being First Lady is a useless job. It'll open up a whole can of worms about the whole "woman behind the man" thing.

The truth is the people elects the first spouse just as much as they elect the president.

No one is going to vote for a president with a spouse that is a mean person.

seadoc, palm desert, ca   November 30th, 2007 4:03 am ET

yet another reason i can't stand hillary, bill or obama – can't we just end the bush/clinton/bush empire?

Independent in IA   November 30th, 2007 3:35 am ET

I find it interesting that Osama Obama would offer both Bill Clinton and Al Gore positions in 'his' administration. You can see the wheels turning......."Let's see, I have no clue what I'm doing, but these guys have been there, they know what to do...I'll depend on them to keep me out of trouble."

I wouldn't trust this idiot to find his way out of the jungle-gym, let alone from the White House Family Quarters to the Oval Office.

JC Ohio   November 30th, 2007 3:30 am ET

It is SHOCKING that Obama would have the audacity to compare his wife with Hillary! Hillary is a steak, Michelle is a hotdog. Obama didn't confide in, nor seek council with, his wife because he obviously doesn't respect her opinion. Bill respected Hillary's and for good reason...she has the makings of a President. Her years i the White House offered her a first hand view of how things should and shouldnt be run and gave her invalubale experience, someting Obama continues to show he is severely lacking in. example: his 'honest' confessions of illicit drug and alcohol use: Presidents should know how to be honest, yet discreet. Open, yet respectfully private. He is trying to hard to play a game he can't even spell yet. Come back in 8 years kid.

Everett, WA   November 30th, 2007 3:18 am ET

Bogus!!Tired of hearing "if the election was held today Hillary would get the most support by so and so...be nominated. What a crock!!They said the same thing about Iowa, and look now Obama is ahead...come on...the people are not stupid!!" Give it up.
The same would happen in FL.

Paul, Rexburg, ID   November 30th, 2007 2:34 am ET

I think that claiming political experience because you lived in the same house as the president is ridiculos. How often was she in the oval office actually observing the process of the presidencey?

Ross Lippincott; Davenport Iowa.   November 30th, 2007 2:07 am ET

As a democrat I would very much like to see these and other aspirations of Senator Obama come true. As a matter of fact I have a few of my own. I'd like to see John Edwards drop back fast in the early states (just stay with me now)far enough that he could not get the nomination. Call Barack Obama and congradulate him, Obama offers the job of Vice President to Edwards (if he'll accept of course) and wants to put him totally in charge of health care reform. John Edwards accepts, they declare their partnership. Now with half the primary still left they sweep the rest of the country. Then are completly unstopable in the general election. They do a tremendous job for eight years then John Edwards runs for President with the full support of President Obama, the democratic party and America. Sixteen (16) years of prosperity.America would never be able to go back to this rock we've been living under for the last eight years. Thank you for reading this. So now c'mon let's hear it.

CBH, Davis California   November 30th, 2007 1:38 am ET

come on Obama! Your poll numbers are finally starting to pick up and you're already making mistakes, again. Many of us support you becuase you claim to be the agent of change. As a nation we have to move on. Clinton was, by some standards, a capable president but it's time to start fresh and bring new ideas to Washington.

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky   November 30th, 2007 1:11 am ET

Obama makes me laugh, what kind of wicked plan is the behind of his gesture this time? Is this joke or game? I don't trust Obama, he is standing by his advisers, not by own strength that's why he has no consistency, he is not enough for VP either. Obama, don't cast an amorous glance.

julianbook, ny ny   November 30th, 2007 1:07 am ET

The American presidency needs moral leadership. The youth of the society are the future. They need moral leadership, or the society decays. They do not need liars, cheaters, sexual perverts and the likes of the Clintons in the White House. Face facts, the Clintons are sleaze. They are owned by corrupt corporate lobbyists. The whole world is watching. The Clintons are incompetent. He inherited a booming tech economy and drove it into a tech wreck and recession. Clinton balanced the budget to please his republican cronies, but couldn't care less about the health care he promised when campaigning. He shafted the American worker with bad trade deals. Clinton should have taken out Bin Laden when his whereabouts were known. Both WTC attacks were planned under Clinton, and now the resulting wars have left the country bankrupt. Hillary voted for the wars and now for one with Iran. It is the Clintons' disgracing of the presidency that caused the democrats to lose the White House, and the Congress. It was a direct result. This also led to a conservative Supreme Court that has permanent repercussions due to their lifetime appointments. The Clintons are an unmitigated disaster for America. Obama is the future.

Iowaworker, Dyersville, IA   November 30th, 2007 12:53 am ET

finally a story on Barack, but CNN still had to include Bill and Hillary's names. It is pathetic that a news company, suposedly non biased, gives this much free publicity to a candidate. It is true, CNN = Clinton News Network

Rex, Toledo, Ohio   November 30th, 2007 12:39 am ET

Obama has it right. He realizes that Bill Clinton was/is his own man, and has proven himself over the years, while Hillary wants folks to believe that she is Bill. The problem is, a lot of folks see her as a Bill Clinton reincarnate, and with that thought process disappointment will surely follow. While I couldn't in good conscience endorse any of the above mentioned, Obama impresses me daily. I'll continue to endorse Mr. Paul.

Christopher, Raleigh, NC   November 30th, 2007 12:34 am ET

But I wonder if Obama would say that Hillay's having been a senator for 6 years more than he would qualify her for being president?

George,Md   November 29th, 2007 11:48 pm ET

CNN your pictures arrangements are deceiving..

Randy, IOWA   November 29th, 2007 11:44 pm ET

Barack is going to win Iowa, then NH, then South Carolina, and then the white house. (insert Dean scream)

Obama 08

Mike, Cleveland, OH   November 29th, 2007 11:41 pm ET

Let the mudslinging and spin begin!!

Will, Decatur GA   November 29th, 2007 11:40 pm ET

Now Obama may want to identify some Republicans who would be valuable in certain areas as well.

KEITH JAMES LOUTTIT   November 29th, 2007 11:28 pm ET

Wow, a perfunctory job offer, but is it a valid job offer?

Maybe Hillary would offer George a job?

This is really totally transparently disingenuous.

charles,s.c   November 29th, 2007 11:26 pm ET

President Barack Obamaaaaaaaaaaaa!
I hope that time comes...

ann,worcester,ma   November 29th, 2007 11:25 pm ET

The above Q&A article is funny where he says big ears. Didn't know he's away his ears are oversize and can say that.lol.

Claude, Mesa AZ   November 29th, 2007 11:23 pm ET

Now there's a match.

Jen, Bethesda, Maryland   November 29th, 2007 11:16 pm ET

Wow, that's some image of Barack and Bill together! I like it! If all working together in one administration, Barack Obama, Hillary & Bill Clinton & Al Gore could make wonderful changes in this country and the world. That's what I'm hoping for.

Fred, Reston VA   November 29th, 2007 11:16 pm ET

Obama's arrogance knows no bounds. I think Obama would have a place in a Clinton administration.

This man has NO experiance other than a boy scout leader for 15 years (I and no other rational person counts state senator as a real job. I bet Obama supporters don't know THEIR OWN state senators for the same reason). And, how full of yourself do you have to be to write 2 autobiographies before age 46?

He is as much a looney toon as Ralph Nader in 2000, so I will not throw my vote away for "hope" and "change" nonsense. He and his supporters need to grow up. You don't see republican's whine and scream about silliness, and that is why they usually win nationally.

Hillary 08

I. Dern (Fairfax, Va)   November 29th, 2007 11:12 pm ET

Obama has more experience than Hillary.

The Clinton '08 camp are the only ones who would argue it.
It's simple math.

Hannah,Iowa   November 29th, 2007 11:10 pm ET

The first and positive article about Obama ever on CNN!
Obama rocks!

Allen Tennessee   November 29th, 2007 11:09 pm ET

I'm surprised Senator Obama. Most of the people who blog for you, hate the Clinton's. I wonder how your fans will view you now?

sally,newton,ma   November 29th, 2007 11:08 pm ET

What a wise well educated guy?
Go Barack we have your back!

rita,PA   November 29th, 2007 11:05 pm ET

President Barack Obama,Clinton as a secretary of state, good match......

Ada, Tulsa, Oklahoma   November 29th, 2007 10:55 pm ET

Yes. Barak Obama, John Edward, Bill Clinton, Bill Richardson, Joe Biden ...
God Bless America And The World. This is what we need to bring joy back to this country.

Anonymous   November 29th, 2007 10:51 pm ET

I now have more respect for you Obama. You seem to be the most honest and trustworthy out of all the others.

Rob A. Eden Prairie, MN   November 29th, 2007 10:42 pm ET

"I don’t think Michelle would claim that she is the best qualified person to be a United States senator by virtue of me talking to her on occasion about the work that I’ve done," Obama said in an interview with ABC earlier this week."

And? That has what to do with anything? I like Obama less and less all the time. :(

stan pitts pa   November 29th, 2007 10:41 pm ET

way to go obama already building his powerful cabinet, anyone imagine how wonderful an obama administration would be??? with bill clinton and al gore working with him? it would be a new, hopeful and refreshing era in american politics, obama 08!

Marjorie, Chicago, IL   November 29th, 2007 10:40 pm ET

I find Obama's comments concerning the quality of Hillary's experience to be inaccurate. Not all "wives" are created equally. All Americans know about the incredibly political and influential role of Hillary Clinton when she served honorably as First Lady of the United States. To diminish her accomplishments or influence in that respect or to compare it to being a "wife" of a state senator from Illinois who does nothing except listen to her important husband tell her about his day is wrong and sexist.

Hoping in San Antonio   November 29th, 2007 10:39 pm ET

I would like to make the democrats aware that there are alot of haters out there. This is what I pulled from one of the questions the republicans were asked about Jesus:

How can anyone think Jesus would be a democrat, when democrats believe in abortion, gay rights, and barely believe in Jesus himself. Wake up! I'm not sure he would be Republican, but I know he would not be a democrat.

Posted By Kiara, Orlando, FL : November 28, 2007 10:41 pm

Please let's unite and take the White House in 08 – and the only person capable is Clinton.

Jimenez - Texas   November 29th, 2007 10:35 pm ET

Now this is what I call total deperation for a vote. Bill and Al on this administration. What a joke........

Stephen, Charlottesville, VA   November 29th, 2007 10:33 pm ET

He would ask Hillary too but she doesn't have enough experience.

Mark, San Francisco, CA   November 29th, 2007 10:28 pm ET

What a wonderful idea. Now, we just need to make Hillary go away.

Jabli Izvesti,St.Louis,MO   November 29th, 2007 10:10 pm ET

What Obama really wanted to say was how stupid Hillary was compared to her great husband.Get it ?

Chris, Chicago, IL   November 29th, 2007 9:49 pm ET

Yeah BABY! Fill up the Pinto with some 92 Octane! I’m on my way to see the hottest flick coming out of BALIWOOD, it is called; “Getting boarded waiting for the lord”. Get this: a “20,000NEWTROOPS’-exit strategy”. “PACK IT UP KIDS! IT’S TIME TO GO! The picnic is over, there are too many in-sects around here”. This just isn’t VIET NAM Mr. B. You pull out too soon and you may have to go back to churning your butter on the intern. That is not a fun embarrassment for Hillary. Three Roman Soldiers cast lots over Jesus clothing. Could it have been a blue dress? Somewhere she was collecting a Club Sandwich. I say, “She should be THE PRESIDENT before Hillary!” AM I NOT WITHOUT REASON?

http://www.golden-lamp.com

Her redhead headdress collapses.

Try not to forget about that.

B.R. buffalo ny   November 29th, 2007 9:34 pm ET

The potential of his administration is endless. It would be wonderful to witness.

Tim, DC   November 29th, 2007 9:34 pm ET

Don't worry, CNN isn't going to let that marijuana story die.

John, Asheville, NC   November 29th, 2007 9:15 pm ET

ummm...yes please!

OBAMA 08!!!

jack, ny, ny   November 29th, 2007 9:12 pm ET

Obama- Michelle never visited 82 countires like Clinton and offcourse she can't make suk claims. What makes you think you are going to be president? Your chanes are as high as pigs flying.

J.P. Eastern Missouri   November 29th, 2007 9:10 pm ET

A BRILLIANT and smooth political move on Obama's part. He looks better every day.

Mann, Charlotte NC   November 29th, 2007 9:07 pm ET

That would work for me. Obama as President and Bill Clinton working somewhere in his administration.

Obama's comments are so true when he point out that Hillary's claims of experience just because she was Bill Clinton's wife are really ridiculous. In not even sure why people continue to buy her "experience" slogan, it never made much sense to me.

Jeremy   November 29th, 2007 9:01 pm ET

Does anyone else notice how highly arrogant Obama is? Like I have been predicting for many months now, Hillary will not only beat the rookie, he'll be eviscerated by a landslide.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   November 29th, 2007 9:00 pm ET

Why not?!

Bill Clinton is the man needed at the UN to mend many fences – and he can do it because he's liked, trusted and respected worldwide!

Hillary, are you listening?

Richard, St. Paul, MN   November 29th, 2007 8:54 pm ET

Bill Clinton in ANYBODY'S cabinet would be a major coup. The man may be questionable as a human being, but he's the one that got this country out of the mess the Republicans left it in and gave us a national surplus, instead of the consistent Republican deficit. Bill NEEDS to get back to work!

pam, Eugene OR   November 29th, 2007 8:48 pm ET

Obama has so much class. I think he should give Bill a job just not one where there are young females!

Sue, Houston, TX   November 29th, 2007 8:39 pm ET

You can find other ways to get sex and cigars. Who needs him?

Anonymous   November 29th, 2007 8:37 pm ET

We need this man to be president.

Go Obama!!!

Kim, Peabody MA   November 29th, 2007 8:34 pm ET

It figures Obama...

So far,

1) You refuse to honor and respect our flag by placing your hand over your heart during the “Pledge of Allegiance”
2) You refuse to honor and respect our troops by wearing an American flag pin on your suit.

3) You choose to want to negotiate with our enemies, while serving a party that insults our strategic allies like Turkey.

4) And now, you want to embrace an ex-President who perjured himself, was impeached, and has sold his country economic prosperity for political gain to China?

It is TIME for a Change. Vote Grasso for President.

http://www.GrassoforPresident.com

Jim in Orlando, FL   November 29th, 2007 8:32 pm ET

Well now, we are still in the campaign season now, aren't we ! I hope Obama is the nominee for many reasons, but inclusion of Slick in his Administration is not one of them. Should Obama be elected, dollar-to-a-donut Bill fades ungraciously, fade being the operative word / hope.

Matthew, San Francisco   November 29th, 2007 8:30 pm ET

This is class, this is a unifyer, this should be our next president. Hilary is not capable of such a move- if the tables were turned. We don't need anymore "haters" going through our government. We should be pushing for unification on all levels- global, partisan and inter-party after the elections.

Obama really impresses me with his candor and wisdom. I was just thinking about Al Gore being a part of an Obama administration yesterday and how much good the two can accomplish for the environment and subsequently our economy. Clinton can lend his presidential expertise as well.

There is no doubt that Gore will be pushing for "green" policies that directly affect our corporations that will, in-turn, cultivate a stronger economy and possibly new industries. I predict that going green will also cultivate new technology providing more jobs within a huge array of existing industries breathing life back into our economy and currency. Think about it

Ruth Bethinger, New York, New York   November 29th, 2007 8:26 pm ET

Any democrat would be wise to include Bill Clinton in some capacity in their administration, but his role would have to be limited. For all of his political smarts, he, like Hillary, is an extremely divisive figure. We must remember that electing Hillary Clinton is not the same as electing Bill Clinton for a third term, nor is our country in need of another 8 years of Republican vs. Democrat bickering.

Patrick, New York, NY   November 29th, 2007 8:23 pm ET

Clinton is too good for Obama.
The smartest politician alive, God bless him and democrats should be so happy to have him on our side.

Elizabeth, Chicago, IL   November 29th, 2007 8:12 pm ET

As a woman, I have found Obama's recent comments concerning the quality of Hillary's experience insulting and frankly sexist. I am surprised that he would stoop so low as to try to appeal to the ignorance of sexist Americans who have trouble thinking outside the box of what a "wife" can be or do. I hate to break it to Obama, but not all "wives" are created equally. No one who was even half-cognizant during the '90s could possibly not know about the incredibly political and influential role of Hillary Clinton when she served honorably and brilliantly as First Lady of the United States. To diminish her accomplishments or influence in that respect or to compare it to being a "wife" of a state senator from Illinois is ignorant and insulting. I imagine that American women will be especially insulted by this sexist political stunt.

Mark, California   November 29th, 2007 8:09 pm ET

This is huge!! Sounds like this is going to set some good momentum.

Obama 08!

Theo, Tokyo   November 29th, 2007 8:06 pm ET

He should offer Hilary ambassador to Mars

Ken, San Diego, CA   November 29th, 2007 8:03 pm ET

I thought Obama disliked the politics of the 90's, including the politics of the Clinton Administration. Nevertheless, Obama would welcome Bill Clinton into HIS administration? Could we please just vote for Hillary and take back the White House? Please? Hillary is smart, tough, and politically savvy. Even the majority of people who claim they don't like her, still acknowledge that she is a strong leader, has incredible work ethic, is organized, and tough.

Shawn   November 29th, 2007 8:02 pm ET

Also, if I can speak freely, I just want to say that I am amazed at the amount of hatred that white men have for Senator Clinton. Simply engage in a conversation with a white male about Sen Clinton and you will be consumed by the hate the wells up in their eyes. I have tried to figure this out and have just resolved that they dislike her because she is historically the first person to ever threaten the white male hegemony that has characterized the American presidency. Some of them support Barack Obama but they know in reality he won't stand a chance against Rudy, Mitt, or even McCain. I think that we should be happy that there is truly a strong, qualified woman running for office. Oh and consider this: Many say that she is the B word because she was so active in her husband's administration. What many people don't know is that Nancy Reagan, although not publically involved in her husband's administration, took an active role in determining who her husband hired and replaced. I guess if it was good for the Reagans it should be good for the Clintons also. But when have you ever know Republicans to think about fairness and balance?

Jacksonville, FL   November 29th, 2007 8:02 pm ET

Boy can you imagine Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Obama and Al Gore. The mid East would die laughing, they wouldn't have to bring the war to America we will self distruct.

TransparentTrollop   November 29th, 2007 7:56 pm ET

Bill would prostitute for anyone.., anytime, anything that might help revive some resemblence of a positive legacy..

Stacy, Louisville, Ky   November 29th, 2007 7:55 pm ET

Bring back the Clintons!!!!

Hillary O8

Shawn   November 29th, 2007 7:53 pm ET

Consider this: Senator Clinton's experience in her husband's administration cannot be merly reduced to casual conversations about a day at the office. Senator Clinton had an office in the West Wing which is uncommon for a First Lady. She was actively invovled in policy decisions and even advised her husband on courses of action as it related to war. Its bizarre, during the Clinton administration there were many who said that she was running the country. Now when its opprotune for their cause, her detractors now assert that her experience is limited. Wow.

JD, des moines, iowa   November 29th, 2007 7:45 pm ET

Obama will very unlikely get nominatied.

If nominated, Obama will NEVER get elected.

Charlottesville Virginia   November 29th, 2007 7:44 pm ET

I think we need a national holiday for presidential elections so it gives people the entire day free to vote.

Janice Doylestown, PA   November 29th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

Now there's a fantastic administration!

I LOVE THE IDEA OF BILL CLINTON TEAMING UP WITH BARACK...They would be UNSTOPPABLE!

Connie, Tn.   November 29th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

Shows what a good President Obama would be. I hope he will gets a job in the cabinet of the next administration.

Michael, Sioux City, IA   November 29th, 2007 7:40 pm ET

Barack Obama is what America needs right now!!

Obama 08

Laura Tulsa OK   November 29th, 2007 7:34 pm ET

Im so glad to see this picture of two Democrats enjoying themselves, while the voters are still waiting to hear what experience and success Obama has had as Senator.

Brian, Milwaukee, WI   November 29th, 2007 7:28 pm ET

Clinton couldn't even administer his own "Affairs" properly.

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