December 6, 2007
Posted: 07:08 AM ET

An anti-Obama e-mail sent by a Clinton volunteer is causing a stir in Iowa.

(CNN) — One of the recipients of a controversial anti-Barack Obama email forward that put Hillary Clinton’s Iowa campaign on the defensive Wednesday said the volunteer county coordinator who sent the original message may have been unfairly targeted.

“She thinks people misunderstood her intent,” said Gary Hart, who said he spoke with the volunteer, Judy Rose, a short time ago. The former Clinton volunteer insisted “she was just sending it along so people know what kind of information is out there,” not because she believed the charges herself. He added that Rose is baffled by the uproar.

The controversy began early Wednesday when an Iowa supporter of presidential candidate Chris Dodd posted a comment on the liberal Daily Kos Web site, accusing an unnamed Clinton volunteer of forwarding an anti-Muslim e-mail aimed at the Illinois senator, containing charges that have been widely discredited.

The e-mail — one of several hoaxes that have been circulating since the Illinois senator announced his candidacy — claims that Obama is a Muslim whose campaign is part of a plot to destroy the United States. Obama is not, and never has been, a Muslim.

Within minutes, Clinton Internet Director Peter Daou posted a message from campaign manager Patti Solis Doyle disavowing the remarks. Rose, a Jones County volunteer, was immediately asked to leave the New York senator’s campaign, and did.

The war of words between both candidates, who are running neck and neck in Iowa polls less than a month before Election Day, has reached a fever pitch over the past week. Within the past few days, both have asked supporters to track attacks and “dirty tricks” aimed at their campaigns.

The Obama campaign is not commenting on the incident.

Earlier: Obama camp denies 'dirty tricks' accusation

– CNN’s Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • Iowa


owens   January 6th, 2008 5:05 am ET

. Look, bottom line is that we Democrats can't afford to not get in the WHite House. NOBODY, and I MEAN NOBODY has ever won the Presidency without winning in the South, and you don't honestly think that the Southern states are going to elect a person who is black and an ARAB, do you? Has everyone gone crazy???? This election is too important to throw away. We can't take a chance on him right now. We need a change alright, let's give a woman a chance. That's a huge change. Hillary is the only electable candidate,

Shane Barber Mableton GA   December 8th, 2007 8:35 am ET

YOU ALL ARE MISSING THE POINT

He HAS MUSLIM NAME= HE WILL NOT WIN in AMERICAN think about what you are saying?

What states are going to vote for him? NY,CA,PA,MASS,MA=Thats about it.=He loses= Same for adultery family of CLINTONS=will lose. Why using HILLARY and not CLINTON?

Republicans want Obama or Clinton=Easy WIN !!!!

Oprah=Please had her on a flight and RUDE RUDE and Rude to us, like we were her slaves=nothing but a great actress, that is why most of her audience is poor white women.

Tom Dedham, Mass   December 7th, 2007 11:00 am ET

Listen, Barack Hussein Obama's campain has sent nasty emilt to me about Hillary. They have spread rumor that Hillary is lesbian, she killed people yara yara…
Obama is desperate to win Iowa, Iowa people make sure you stop Obama right Iowa.
Hillary is not perfect but Obama and Edward are worse person to be the president of this great nation.
Hillary will be better president than Bill because she is very through and organized person.

Posted By Uma, mpls, MN : December 6, 2007 4:00 pm

Uma, can you post the e-mail for all of us to see.

This is a huge story about to be broken by Uma…………

I just hope that Clintonista Sandy Berger does not help you back up your hard drive.

Kim, Dallas, TX   December 6th, 2007 8:28 pm ET

Be careful what you wish for when defending Hillary. I predicted this all along…the moment Obama became a threat to her, every tactic would be used. She is capable of so much corruption to the point of creating adversity herself to make him look bad. Putting her in office would be a HUGE mistake. As a response to the person who said Obama was guilty of push polling …. here is the truth…I personally find things more believable when there is a name attached to the accusation. Anyone who understands guilty accusations knows it holds more water having facts to back things up!

The Clinton campaign didn't provide the names of their aggrieved supporters.

UPDATE: Jen Psaki of Camp O denies — with ooomph: "This flat-out falsehood of accusing Obama of push polling is the latest attack in a silly season where our opponents have promised to stop at nothing in an effort to tarnish Barack Obama's character. Push polling or tactics of confusion have no place in this campaign and we don't or won't engage in them. Unlike some other campaigns, we want every potential Iowa caucus-goer to participate in the process, no matter who they support."

pam Eugene OR   December 6th, 2007 6:53 pm ET

Great Clinton!
Get her to send it then git rid of her.
Polotics as usual for Shrillary! No dirt is too low for her to scoop up.

Roberto Infante, LA, California   December 6th, 2007 6:37 pm ET

I’m with Obama. I like his ideas and we must stop the Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton mafia…

I suppose that I’m not the only one that is wondering that this country “owns” 2 families since 20 years… If Hillary wins this democracy will be worse than in Venezuela…

Go Barack!

CS, Chicago, IL.   December 6th, 2007 6:08 pm ET

First of all, I have the utmost respect for all religions. However, our constitution and our country were predicated on the fact that government and religion should be completely separate. Therefore, I base my opinions on reading as much factual information as I can about each candidate and their views about topics that I feel are most important to our country. I do not make my opinions based on party lines, but based on lines of individual candidates.

That being said, let me clarify Obama's religion and upbringing. He is a member of the United Church of Christ. His father, who was from Kenya, was raised as a Muslim, but became an atheist early on in life. His step-father was not religious. His mother is a "non-practicing" Christian. He spent five years of his childhood living in Indonesia. During that time, he attended a Catholic school for three years and a public (non-religious) school for one year. He describes himself as a committed Christian, but strongly believes in the separation of church and state, which I touched on previously as the basis of our constitution.

John, Philadelphia PA   December 6th, 2007 5:52 pm ET

Why is there even a problem with his religion in his first place? America is a country of immigrants; diversity is what makes America, America in the first place. I hope for America's sake, that most of you do not ever have the chance to vote (At least research some of this stuff before posting it!)

Ernest Caldwell Philadelphia, PA   December 6th, 2007 5:04 pm ET

It's sad to see so much hate and bigotry in the year 2007 on this blog. I don't care what religion any of the canidates are. I'm more concerned about the future of this country. And when i vote I will vote for the canidate that will move us forward. Why is it that the Obama supporters speak with intelligence and respect, and the Clinton supporters sound like grade school kids in a schoolyard calling each other names. Geesh even if i wanted to vote for Hilary, I would never want to associate myself with such an uneducated and ignorant class of people. And another thing why do Clinton supporters hang so much on her "experience" when she only has 6 years in the senate, and 3 other canidates running againest her have 20 + years in public office. I dont care where you went to school 20+ years is always greater than 6 years.

Uma, mpls, MN   December 6th, 2007 4:00 pm ET

Listen, Barack Hussein Obama's campain has sent nasty emilt to me about Hillary. They have spread rumor that Hillary is lesbian, she killed people yara yara…
Obama is desperate to win Iowa, Iowa people make sure you stop Obama right Iowa.
Hillary is not perfect but Obama and Edward are worse person to be the president of this great nation.
Hillary will be better president than Bill because she is very through and organized person.

Adam, Las Vegas, NV   December 6th, 2007 3:52 pm ET

It is all about John Edwards, let Obama and Hillary fight, no good will come of it.

John, Raleigh, NC   December 6th, 2007 3:52 pm ET

"The e-mail — one of several hoaxes that have been circulating since the Illinois senator announced his candidacy — claims that Obama is a Muslim whose campaign is part of a plot to destroy the United States. Obama is not, and never has been, a Muslim."

Can you go out on a limb and also include a sentence to the effect of "Obama is not part of a plot to desroy the United States."? Seems that by denying one charge and accepting the other you imply that he is on a plot.

Randy S. Lawton, OK   December 6th, 2007 2:28 pm ET

Posted By Les WA : December 6, 2007 10:19 am

OK, you know his mother was atheist …how? Actually his fatherwas an atheist and his stepfather was a religious skeptic with a more practical outlook on life.
Religion is a choice, it's not something in your DNA.
There was not a RACE of people that atacked this country on 9/11. It was 19 members of a radical islamofascist group of terrorists, that overall may comprise appr. 1% of Islam.
You should do a little research before spouting off. You should also watch you words a little more carefully, your racism is showing.

PW Va   December 6th, 2007 2:24 pm ET

This reeks of desparation on the part of the Clinton campaign. I will be voting for Senator Obama, however, I once had respect for what Senator Clinton was attempting to accomplish. That sentiment is rapidly eroding as it appears she is becoming as devious as some of her male counterparts representing the GOP hopefuls. I did not think you would sink to this level, Hillary!!!

JB Boston MA   December 6th, 2007 2:21 pm ET

Hill fans are now making excuses saying, "how s she supposed to be responsible for her campagn staffers"

OK- I will give you that. But remember, others have the right to use the same argument. If I remember correctly, most of you have lashed out at other campaign staffers and bamed the candidate for the misdeeds.

Hypocrites!

Christian, Marietta GA   December 6th, 2007 2:20 pm ET

Clinton killed Vince Foster now she's trying to do it to the rest of the democratic field.

Alex Jenkins   December 6th, 2007 2:11 pm ET

Obama aka Osama was a Muslim, has Muslim parents, and trained at Djakarta, one of the most militant Muslim gulags in the world. The contention that he was not a Muslim is patently false. I believe he still is a Muslim.

CB, Atlantic, VA   December 6th, 2007 2:06 pm ET

ABH…Anyone But Hillary. If she is so organized, she certainly is aware of what is sent from her campaign.She would be a lousy leader that no one could trust. PLus…she wants to send more jobs overseas, & flip-flop her stances each week, having 2-3 stances on each issue. And experence?…..she has been a first lady…wow.

Aaron Tempe AZ   December 6th, 2007 2:02 pm ET

its sad but true the way hillary and obama are fighting neither of them will actually stand a chance in the election the republicans will walk all over them. They wont have to sling mud due to the democrats are already waist high in it. you have to love childish acts

Michele S; Springville, Ia   December 6th, 2007 1:45 pm ET

As one of the daughters of Judy Rose, I was on the short list of recipiants of this "malicious" email. This was not a smear campaign, it was not meant to be malicious, she received it from a childhood friend who is fully aware of her dedication to the Clinton campaign. It was forwarded as a FYI on what it being said out there, and how hard others are trying to smear opponents. Sometimes people read way too much into things and blow it out of proportion. Take this at face value, there is too much finger pointing and blaming going on which is avoiding the actual issues.

Ryan, Pittsburgh, PA   December 6th, 2007 1:38 pm ET

People find any little thing to attack Hillary these days. And how do you know that the girl really wasn't just forwarding the message to show people what was going on. It seems like someone just twisted this to favor Barack.

Terry, Sikeston, MO   December 6th, 2007 1:38 pm ET

I have always voted for the woman/man and not the party. Ballots that allow one to vote the Republican or Democrat ticket pander to an America that is demonstrating less and less intelligence.

The only two individuals from either party that are not politics as usual are Barak Obama and Ron Paul. If neither of these two are on the final ticket I won't even waste the time to vote. Nothing will change.

lowell mass   December 6th, 2007 1:36 pm ET

Arnold Flick La Jolla CA USA
Let's take Obama's word that he is not a Muslim now, but at one point he certainly was: natural father a Muslim, Stepfather a Muslim, educated in Muslim schools in a Muslim country. By Muslim rules, his father alone makes Obama a Muslim, to say nothing of what followed. If it's fair to question Romney on Mormonism, then it's fair to ask Obama why he left the Muslim faith, and how he feels about it now; he has said he became a Christian without an epiphany. We are, after all, talking about the Presidency, and we are war with a significant portion of the Muslim world. The relationship of the President to the Muslim faith of his childhood is a matter of national interest, and needs to be spelled out.

Posted By Arnold Flick, La Jolla CA : December 6, 200

so what if he is muslim? we all know what the christians in the white house did, did their faith guard them ?guess we all know the aswer to that one.

RuthieM   December 6th, 2007 1:19 pm ET

Don Imus returned on the air Dec. 3. One of the first things that came out of his mouth was, "…and Hillary Clinton is still Satan." With crap like this from Hillary and her campaign, what else can one wonder? And as has been asked before, to what lengths will Clinton and her campaign go? They're rotten to the core, and something should be done about this, they should not be allowed to get away with it.

mike, los angeles   December 6th, 2007 12:54 pm ET

Why do people support Obama? He has no tangible quality that is comparable to every other single candidate. First of all, he has no monopoly over hope. Hope is just a word. Since he doesn't have any other quality except for his law career to support his presidential run he has to use these intangible qualities. Second, he doesnt bring change, he brings uncertainty. The only change he is going to bring is a promise of change? Change can be bad and good, after all, Bush promised "change" 8 years ago. Why are people so afraid of bringing up race when that is one of the obvious reasons why some people are supporting Obama. Oprah = case in point. Oprah started an all womens school in Africa. She has been a victim of abuse and has shown how women can raise the ceiling in professionalism…tell me why she is choosing a man over a woman who has exceptionally more experience, in law, foreign affairs, health care, and government….oh hmmm could it be race? Finally, Obama is the easiest candidate for republicans to defeat. Think about all the candidates that could have beaten Bush but didn't, McCain lost the primaries, Edwards and John Kerry, hell even Al Gore..all the other republican candidates are much better than Bush, but Obama doesnt even stand close to the previous losing competition. No wonder every republican is hoping for Hillary to lose the primaries.

XY, LA, CA   December 6th, 2007 12:45 pm ET

clinton is the choice of O8. I do not think Obama is ready for the president at this time, and he needs four or eight more years. Cliton is a very strong womam with experience and had experienced hard times in the past years. She is the only candidate who can beat republicans.

Linda, Chandler AZ   December 6th, 2007 12:27 pm ET

To Arnold, Troy and all others who have no idea what they are talking about!! – Barack Obama is NOT a Muslim. His father was NOT a Muslim. During the 4 years he was in Indonesia he did NOT go to a Muslim school. All of this was disproved MONTHS AGO!! Please do some homework and get your facts straight before you start opening your mouths and slandering this man.

Eric, VA   December 6th, 2007 12:23 pm ET

So due to the fact that Obama has the same name as a former Iraqi dictator, he must practice Islam?…some of you people are shockingly and sickeningly ignorant, READ A BOOK, ANY BOOK.

Zubair, Monterey Bay, CA   December 6th, 2007 12:04 pm ET

"The e-mail…claims that Obama is a Muslim whose campaign is part of a plot to destroy the United States. Obama is not, and never has been, a Muslim." ?!?!
As a Muslim, I am deeply offended by the language of this article. I was under the impresion that CNN holds itself at a higher standard than treating the religion of 2 billion people like a disease.

Lakeland, FL   December 6th, 2007 11:52 am ET

Dennis Kucninch is the only cadidate running that is on the mainstream issues. America, I know the media doesn't like to cover him. Take the time to look at his issues vs the rest and you too will see.

Kucinich 2008 The mainstream candidate!

k david   December 6th, 2007 11:49 am ET

Obama would be a great president. Clinton would be a great president. What matters is that one or the other beats the Republican candicate. If we get a Republican in, the supreme court will be locked in as a solid right wing block for about 20 years. Forget about your quibbles with this or that with Clinton or Obama. Keep your eye on the real issue.

Posted By Ray (Nashville, TN) : December 6, 2007 10:34 am

Well said I totally agree with you. You are a true democrat! These silly obama haters and clinton haters are going to drop the ball ignoring the big picture and will hand the election to the republicans. Use your brain and not just your heart. Can you imagine what a powerful ticket CLINTON OBAMA 08 would be- this would be a sure win for democrats and Senator Barack Obama can still be the President he deserves to be in 2016. by then he will have that "experince he lacks now" and his name Hussein would be not an issue and all the gender and racial barriers will be brocken for a better America.

Dan, NJ   December 6th, 2007 11:40 am ET

Obama does very well among the most eductated voters. Clinton does very well among the least educated voters.

The staffer's intent in sending this email was to get people to choose Clinton or, at the very least, not support Obama. The uneducated and the biggoted are exactly the people who would be influenced by an email like this.

For the posters who think being a Muslim is a bad thing, think of all the things that have happened in the name of Christianity: KKK, Nazis, Inquisition… Point is, don't judge all people of a faith by the acts of a few.

Finally, all the posters that insist on including Obama's middle name in their posts, do you have any reason other than your own petty prejudice for doing so?

Janine, Chapel Hill, NC   December 6th, 2007 11:38 am ET

A little common sense, people. As a political science major, I can tell you that no campaign manager in his/her right mind would EVER attempt a smear tactic this improbable and blatantly incorrect…it would be party suicide, straight up. Hillary cannot be held accountable for an incompetent zealot. As liberal as she is, I highly doubt that she herself would ever think such things about Obama, despite the fact that he is her opponent. Hillary is also a women who has been cheated on by her husband, the PRESIDENT, and laughed at by the public. She took the poor bastard back and was actually BLAMED for doing so, when to have divorced him would have killed her dreams of being the first woman president. She is constantly attacked for being too cold for a woman, when we all know that if she loosened up the slightest bit she'd become "incompetent" and "soft," unable to represent the US in this troubled age.

The woman has been in the public eye for 17 years. We know soo much about her and she's had soo much more of a chance to slip-up than all of these other babies. Of course we're going to find things to criticize (I should note, however, that I can find many more things wrong with the other candidates who have just emerged at the forefront). I think it's saying something that, given the span of her existence of national politics, she has come through and led a FLAWLESS campaign. I am for Hillary '08 because, honestly, it's time we let a woman try being president. As an OPPRESSED human being, a minority in today's extreme patriarchy of violence, war, and racial discrimination, who better could we ask for to serve as our leader, taking into account that Hillary herself is a member of the oppressed? We are supposed to be an advanced, enlightened, MODERN society…and yet we're still living back in the beginning centuries A.D. in many respects.

How about a little change, a little proof? What other options do we really have? Many act as though Hillary just isn't the "right" woman to be the first woman. Tell me, then, if she doesn't win, what other options are available? None that I know of. None for many many years….

Michael New York   December 6th, 2007 11:33 am ET

A person can not be a good Muslim and a good American. The two are mutually exclusive. I am not saying Obama is a Muslim just trying to clarify.

Bryn, West Orange, NJ   December 6th, 2007 11:15 am ET

Volunteer or not, she should not have sent out a false e-mail about her candidate's rival. The volunteer represents the candidate so all of her "well-intentioned" efforts are nullified by such a careless, unthoughtful action. When I heard about this, I was not shocked at all because of how that campaign has been conducting itself thus far. Let's stop with the lies and focus on healing America.

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   December 6th, 2007 11:13 am ET

WOW

Team Hillary just keeps stumbling.

Bill must not be impressed.

Amanda, Chicago IL   December 6th, 2007 11:12 am ET

I am an avid Obama supporter and volunteer for his campaign; I can't stand Hillary. But I have to stand up for her on this one. There are SO many volunteers that they can't all be controlled down to the emails they send. If it were one of her paid staffers, then that would be different.

Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL   December 6th, 2007 11:12 am ET

HOPE is what he is all about.
H- Help me not screw up!
O- Other guys fault, other guys fault…
P- Put off direct answers and NO platitudes, phrases: President…not prez, chief, or head dog.
E- Enjoy no days until it is known.

Beaster   December 6th, 2007 11:10 am ET

As for some of the comments added to this board, I don’t know of many that would want to be on your level! If you focus so much on a name, you missed many points of view. Just the facts please! Many say that HRC's campaign is under attack and i agree, but from within. An implosion waiting to happen!

David, Gilbert Arizona   December 6th, 2007 10:54 am ET

I'm a republican so I just laugh about all the mud slinging and name calling you democrats are doing in a "campaign for change." Change my arse. Your candidates are running the same old dirty campaigns that have gone on for decades. Kudos to you democrats.

I'd also comment that you should be ashamed of yourselves. Democrats are supposedly liberal tolerant accepting people. Gay rights, pro-choice, hug your local illegal immigrant, and yet when the word Muslim comes up all this hate and name calling starts flying around. So much for tolerance. It would seem democrats are just as hypocritical as they accuse republicans of being. Kudos for that one as well.

I'm laughing at the superior intellect.

Michelle, AZ   December 6th, 2007 10:46 am ET

My last name is Hispanic, but I'm not Hispanic. Many Hispanics are Catholic, but I'm not Catholic. Many Hispanics enjoy, say, enchiladas, but I don't really care for them. Many Hispanics speak Spanish, but I don't speak it too well.

I am simply amazed at the level of ignorance out there. People believe that because someone has a particular middle name they're involved in a nefarious plot aimed at destroying our country from within?

What about a person with an Hispanic last name who isn't Hispanic who has been to a predominantly Muslim country but isn't Muslim? What on earth could that person be up to? Oooohhh…scary!

Ray (Nashville, TN)   December 6th, 2007 10:34 am ET

Obama would be a great president. Clinton would be a great president. What matters is that one or the other beats the Republican candicate. If we get a Republican in, the supreme court will be locked in as a solid right wing block for about 20 years. Forget about your quibbles with this or that with Clinton or Obama. Keep your eye on the real issue.

Joe, Indianapolis,IN   December 6th, 2007 10:34 am ET

Ok, here's a lesson for those those who are too ignorant, absurd, narrow-minded, and stupid enough to believe what some e-mail or rumor says as opposed to researching information for themselves.

First, what is a muslim? Go here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim) to read the definition. Have you ever heard or seen Obama do or say anything mentioned in the definition of Muslim? Where's the evidence the he ever proclaimed an adherence to Islam? If you haven't heard any, then you have absolutely no basis for claiming or questioning whether or not he's a muslim. For the idiots who say that he is a Muslim because his father was a Muslim or because he was exposed to Muslims, you're about as smart as a wooden post. Do your research!!

Second, if you're going to be afraid of anyone, you should be afraid of all the hypocritical Judeo-Christians running around Washington right now and who claim they're part of the "moral compass" leading this country. They're the ones who have spent 600 billion of your tax dollars in the middle east. They're the ones YOU keep re-electing, but they NEVER listen to you. They're the ones who say one thing, yet they do another. They're the ones who are for sale. They're the ones who have put the next three generations in debt to China. And you're pissing and moaning over a trivial e-mail about someone's cultural experiences and exposure from when they were a child? Come on!! How infantile have we become?

Third, I think this public ignorance and lethargic approach to educating and informing ourselves has contributed to a culture of misinformation and reactionary political soundbites in this country. People are too ignorant about the things that really matter and only believe "he-said-she-said" stuff that hasn't been validated by a credible source or that simply makes no sense! And we wonder why currupt politicians, crooked businessmen, identity thieves, and sneaky snake oil salesmen thrive in this country?!!

Patience DoGood   December 6th, 2007 10:33 am ET

To all that seek to make a candidate's religion an issue (on both Democrat and GOP divides), let us now refer to our founding document the Constitution–specifically Article 6.

"…no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States."

What difference does it make if a candidate is Christian, Islamic, or prays to the flying spaghetti monster? Please wake up, America, and vote for those that seek to stand behind the Constitution.

Frank, Henderson, NV   December 6th, 2007 10:30 am ET

while I have to agree that a candidate can't reign in everyone, I do think these leaks like this from time to time are certainly planned and the candidate will deny any involvement.

EE   December 6th, 2007 10:26 am ET

This is very naive for Clinton Campaign staffers to issue blatant lies .

This makes politics mean and uninteresting. there is no more debate on issues but useless emails.

BTW if Obama should go after the Clintons for their adulturies, and corrupt Chinese links or Hilary's lesbian Saudi affair, how would they feel? Nonsense all together.

Hey, wait for the Republicans to open that can of worms if Hilary is nominated

Mary, Beaver, PA   December 6th, 2007 10:21 am ET

A pattern of dirty campaign tricks coming from the Hillary camp? So, who's surprised?

Brandon, West Palm Beach, FL   December 6th, 2007 10:21 am ET

While the Clinton and Obama camps are finghting between themselves. Voters should take a look at Governor Bill Richardson, a candidate with a record of actual accomplishments. Not someone who can only site a voting record or pay lip service to special interest groups.

Les WA   December 6th, 2007 10:19 am ET

A man who DENY his OWN HERITAGE is NOT fit to lead this country. How low can a person get? A man who doesn't have any conviction, is NOT fit to lead this country. According to my arab friend, in Sharia Law, a child born into Muslim parents is a Muslim, why Obama is in denial of his own heritage? If a person deny his own roots which is the VERY foundation of who you are, what are the other things he is hiding from the American people? His mother was not a christian, she was an ATHEIST. Therefor, while growing up before moving back in the US, the only exposure he was exposed to was Islam. He converted to christianity later on in life. Obama also LIED about the background of his father, he was no ordinary goat herder, wealthy farmer. If you don't have money, you can't send your child overseas especially to get their education in USA, it is every expensive. I know some people supporting Obama because they read his book, to them that's enough to vote for him – that is SHALLOW.

A lot of you have forgotten what race of people attacked this country (9/11). Obama has a CHARACTER PROBLEM, he's too far from being honest, too far from being trustworthy, he also lacks the conviction to act. I will not risk my single vote for a person who has the notion people just take his speech as testament of truth without backing it up.

OBAMA is more DANGEROUS than our current President. Obama is non-committal on important issues that matters to all Americans. I DO NOT TRUST OBAMA, I see something in him I find scary, it has nothing to do with his race or his heritage, far deeper than that. I hope others saw it too.

Adam, Pittsburgh, PA   December 6th, 2007 10:18 am ET

What can you say? The guy's brown, and that's all it takes for some people to despise him. Crazy but common.

Fortunately, most of those people aren't going to vote for a Dem anyway, so who cares? Midwest and Mountain West are where the election will be fought, and there are just too many moderate Repubs crushing on Obama for it to matter.

Randy S. Lawton, OK   December 6th, 2007 10:11 am ET

Obviously he is a Muslim Jihadist, a regular one man sleeper cell. He joined the Trinity congregation 20+ years ago (wait, wouldn't this be a sin of some sort to a Muslim, I'm just guessing), as part of his nefarious plot. He knew that he would be a serious challenger to be President 3 decades down the road. He's just biding his time. You just wait, when he's President, at his first State of the Union Address, he'll walk into the halls of Congress with a suicide vest on and wipe out our entire government.
GOOD PLAN!

Some people on these boards need to seek help.

Now on a more serious note, I would think, the world being what it is today, that his background in a Muslim community, in a Muslim madrassa(hope I used that correctly), and his familiarity with Islam would be an experience checkmark in his favor. At some point he's gonna have to sit down with certain people for various diplomatic reasons. What other candidate is going to have a better understanding of the mindset he'll be negotiating with, Hillary? Puh-lease.

Tom W - Dedham, Mass   December 6th, 2007 10:02 am ET

This is just another trick from Obama's side. A decoy volunteer to try and smear Clinton. We stand stand strong behind Clinton – she is the strength.

Posted By Nita – San Antonio : December 6, 2007 6:58 am

This is just another dirty trick from Obama. Most likely this volunteer had been enlisted to try to smear Clinton. Its not working – we all know how low Obama can go. It's not going to work. And, you people you are dinging Clinton – shame on you. We stand strong in our support. CLINTON 05

Posted By Jimenez – Texas : December 6, 2007 6:26 am

These postings by Clinton supporters proves the theory that Obama supporters are more educated and therefore smarter than the Clinton sheep.

Do we want more YEARS of these type of SCANDALS big and small with another Clinton presidency?

And "Goody", have you not been paying attention and looking at her polling?

She and her campaign are falling apart, and it isn't even the Republicans challenging her yet.

I agree with Hillary on one thing, this is "fun".

AJ, IL   December 6th, 2007 10:02 am ET

More smear tactics by Hillary's Campaign. Hillary did say she was going to step up her attacks, but I didn't think she meant personal. Hillary did say this part of the campaign is "fun" for her.

Arnold Flick, of La Jolla, CA, you are wrong. Obama is not a Muslim, he is a Christian. In a supposedly secular society, religion should not matter as it relates to public office. This is ridiculous. All this rhetoric about Obama being a Muslim or Obama planning to be president early on is total B.S.! We are talking about a small child going to Indonesia with his mother and a small child dreaming of being president one day. This total non-sense and beneath the average American.

If I were to say that Hillary Clinton is a republican because she volunteered for Republican candidate Barry Goldwater in the U.S. presidential election of 1964, what you say?

ROL, WDC   December 6th, 2007 10:02 am ET

To quote Arnold Flick, La Jolla CA :The relationship of the President to the Muslim faith of his childhood is a matter of national interest, and needs to be spelled out.

Obama is President already? And he's a Muslim? We should BE so lucky! (As my Jewish grandmother would say…) With a brown-skinned Muslim in the White House, we'd get out of Iraq with some dignity, have better leverage on world oil prices and get all those pesky third world people at the UN off our backs. Too bad Obama's not Korean, and from Florida, or we'd have world peace and the presidential election sorted out in a jiffy! Seriously folks – it's great to see all those Iowans posting for themselves instead being squeezed into soundbites.

sevens7777 Frisco, Txs   December 6th, 2007 9:59 am ET

To all of you Muslims, GET FRIGGEN over it. The Muslim community in general, I repeat in general think their religioncan do no wrong and will at the drop of a hat slam other religions. This simply amazes me, I have spent time in Jerusalem, and amazingly everyone gets along, courteous, and considerate, why can't they do this in the rest of the world. Obomba, Please go away!!!!!!!!!

Robert Bassett, Temple,Texas   December 6th, 2007 9:56 am ET

It just so happened that I asked that question in a e-mail yesterday. I expected Mr Obama to not only answer the question, but to address the subject. My comment-Question was; The name Barack Obama is an Islam-Muslem faith name.Was he born with this name or was his real name changed to this name later in life for his faith? The other part was would Mr Obama confess to Jesus Christ being his Lord, and Savior? Is this just a freak coincidence? I would really like for Mr Obama to address these issues!So far he personally has not, and will not address this issue!

Gregg, Bismarck, ND   December 6th, 2007 9:56 am ET

Why is religion such an issue for Americans. Religion is nothing more than another American business. The church provides a service, the church hopes the faithful of the church will donate cash, the more faithful that can be recruited the more money the church gains, and it's tax free. I should start my own religion (just kidding). :)

I'm not anti-religion; I'm just disgusted that Americans make religion a major issue in a run for the White House. Religion can be a wonderful thing, but it can also be the cause of death and destruction. As long as the candidate's morals and values are shared by a majority of Americans, leave religion out of the picture. Our country has bigger issues to deal with.

I don't care if someone is a Morman, Jehovah Witness, ect. The only thing that concerns me about religion relates to the radical interpretation of that religion by certain individuals. Hurting someone in the name of God, whatever your God might be called, is a disgrace. I pray for the health of my family, I pray for peace, I PRAY. I pray; isn't that enough!!!

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   December 6th, 2007 9:53 am ET

The Clintons may be a lot of things, but neither one is a bigot. The campaign acted correctly by asking this young woman to step down.

Let's be realistic, neither the candidate nor his/her top campaign staffers can possibly know what thousands of volunteers are doing at any given time, unless something hits
the fan as it did with this email.

Megha, San Antonio, TX   December 6th, 2007 9:53 am ET

JB from Boston, I think you watch Fox News too much. Is everyone missing the point here that the volunteer was fired? All these nasty things Obama supporters/Hillary haters are saying about Hillary are also pretty low, but is anyone complaining? Obama can't be held accountable for that.
I am supporting Hillary but not hating Obama, for heaven's sake, Obama supporters, this amount of vitriol isn't going to get Obama elected.

Be nice, Obama supporters, don't stoop so low.
Hillary 08′

Gideon, Chicago, IL   December 6th, 2007 9:39 am ET

he was borm a muslim.
Posted By wm marshall las vegas,nv

He wasn't "borm" a muslim. Kids aren't born with religious affiliations.

disgusted with the lack of intelligence in the room   December 6th, 2007 9:38 am ET

If you are a democrat and vote for hillary clinton, then you are voting republican!! the republicans are hoping she is the candidate they are going to eat her alive. Furthermore, experience is synomynous with scandal…when cry we want change yet we shun the man who can bring it about. Lastly, I'm not even going to entertain the comment about American will not elect a black president…how ignorant…you don't speak for all americans!!! If Hil is the democratic nominee i hope another republican is put in office!

Pat Lewis, Oak Grove KY   December 6th, 2007 9:33 am ET

I thought Obama was raised as a Muslim. I read this in several articles on the internet. First by his Father, then by his step Father?

Connie, Richmond, CA   December 6th, 2007 9:31 am ET

Paul from Indiana: Yes, when Barrack becomes president, all kindergarders will be smart enough to write essays. No more coloring books!

Colin, Milwaukee WI   December 6th, 2007 9:25 am ET

he was borm a muslim.

Posted By wm marshall las vegas,nv : December 6, 2007 8:10 am

WM, his father is a Muslim, his mother a Christian.

"Obama's father was a Muslim. Obama attended a Muslim school. At time(s) he grew up in a Muslim neighborhood. Easy to see where these stories begin."

Posted By Mike, Grand Rapids MI : December 6, 2007 6:25 am

So Mike, if you were born in an Italian neighborhood your a Mafioso and if you were born in an Irish neighborhood, you're a member of PIRA right?

Ryan, New Jersey   December 6th, 2007 9:23 am ET

If Hillary gets nominated the Republicans will get fired up like they haven't been in decades. They LOATHE the Clintons. Republican children have been indoctrinated with it. Any Democrat running for congress in a tight race next year will lose if Hillary is at the top of the ticket. If we don't nominate Obama I'm gearing up for a very depressing 2008.

Joe G., Washington, DC   December 6th, 2007 9:15 am ET

His father was a muslim. His mom is 100% white. The biggest turn off for me is his fat friend Oprah.

Angela, Alex, VA   December 6th, 2007 9:13 am ET

Hey Maryann,

Newsflash: Obama is both black AND white. He has never chosen one over the other. If he says he's not Muslim, then he's not. He has been, after all, attending Oprah's church.

Anon, Minneapolis, MN   December 6th, 2007 9:09 am ET

I cannot believe how this story makes being a Muslim sound like an anti-American thing, a bad thing. This story needs a comment from someone or just a sentence of fact stating what the religion is about. It's about love and peace. We just happen to read about Muslims who are at war fighting for their countries or who are terrorists. Come on, Muslims are not our enemy. Look at Omaha. That kid wasn't a Muslim and yet he walked into a mall in the middle of the U.S. and created panic and killed innocent people. I am a Muslim and I vote and luckily for me I am smart enough to know more than what these stories say. And regardless of Obama's faith, I would vote for him if he gets the nomination.

michael, NY   December 6th, 2007 9:08 am ET

Beware of this ten-headed snake.

The following article appeared in both INSIGHT MAGAZINE and NATIONAL REVIEW (6/1999).

Why the name Hillary? Did her parents just like that name? Was there an aunt or grandma named Hillary? Not according to Hillary Clinton.

Most people know that the first conqueror of Mt. Everest was Sir Edmund Hillary. During an Asian tour in 1996, Hillary Clinton paid visits to Australia and New Zealand.

Our Hillary proudly told reporters that her parents named her for New Zealand's favorite son, Sir Edmund Hillary. Apparently, Hillary Rodham's parents must have been psychics. Sir Edmund Hillary was a beekeeper in New Zealand and, although he had been involved in mountain climbing before Mt. Everest, he really was pretty much unknown outside of New Zealand. The problem that our former First Lady must explain is how she was named for the adventurer whose Everest climb was in 1953. Hillary Rodham was born in 1947. Whoops!

This is indicative of Hillary Clinton's aversion to the truth. She can tell lies, she can commit perjury, she can hide billing records because she has not been made to pay the price. Until she does, the lies will continue, some of which will be very detrimental to this nation.

Another story about this lady. Sources: FOXNews, Washington Times.

It was February 2000. Hillary Rodham Clinton, the world's smartest and most compassionate carpetbagging woman was running for the senate from New York She and her entourage stopped in Albion, New York on her "Getting to Know New York Since She Has Never Lived There Before Tour."

Trish Trupo is a 31-year-old waitress and single mother who had the honor of waiting on her majesty. Trish worked for $2.90 per hour plus tips. Her majesty had two orders of food, according to the owner, Alex Mitrousis. Her first order was scrambled eggs, home fries, and rye toast. Needing to fill out that black pantsuit, Hillary decided she need more food, so he polished off two more scrambled eggs with cheese.

The food was on the house. Anyone running on a platform of helping the little guy, particularly one who just purchased a $1.7 million house, should have been sensitive enough not to accept the food for free. What Hillary did next, however, was so Hillaryesque and so predictable. She stiffed the waitress. Hillary left no tip. Not a dime.

The next day, when Hillary was asked about the tipping incident by a reporter in New York, she did what she does best. She lied. She said, "That's just another wild story." They are all wild stories, aren't they, Hillary?

When Jay Leno started cracking jokes about the incident, Vast Right Wing Conspiracy sources started to get the word out, and the story began appearing around the world, Hillary took time from her busy day to give Trish a call and apologize. FReepers added to the humiliation by sending the waitress envelopes with $1 bills in them. She received over $500 from the FReepers.

The first natural instinct of any human being is survival. The second for Hillary Rodham Clinton is lying. She will do it every time

Randy S. Lawton, OK   December 6th, 2007 9:00 am ET

It does not seem so far fetched to believe he has an ulterior motive and has secrets to keep, lest we forget who we are at war with and why.

Posted By Sean: Odenton, MD : December 6, 2007 8:06 am

Paranoia, anyone? Get your tinfoil hats right here. Only $10.
Get a grip, Sean.

he was borm a muslim.

Posted By wm marshall las vegas,nv : December 6, 2007 8:10 am

Sorry wm, but a newborn babe has no religion. That comes from how they are raised and indoctrinated, and he was not raised Muslim. Careful, your bias is showing.

Terese, Richond Hill, Canada   December 6th, 2007 9:00 am ET

Fact: Obama was born a muslim.

Question: Why are the Wahhabi & Shia imams not calling for his head? Apostasy equals death in Sharia and is in the Koran.

The Koran is NOT compatible with American jurisprudence or the Constitution. America, wake up! Read the Koran for yourself, in English.

"Take not the Jew or Christian as your friend. They are friends of each other."

"Smite the infidels (i.e. "us") where they lay"

There is a reason why a sword flies on the flag of Saudi-land.

Please, America – you really are the world's last and best hope to fight the Islamification of the West.

Read Bernard Lewis, "The Looming Tower", Oriana, etc.

Love,

A Canadian who loves the USA

Jimenez - Texas   December 6th, 2007 8:58 am ET

This is just another trick from the Obama camp. Most likely this volunteer was planted by Obama. No one in their right mind would have sent that type of email knowing full well it would come back and bite them. Unless that was the sole mission? Hello wake up Obama and his staff are behind this. The guy and the lot play dirty. Standing strong behind Clinton

Andrew Greensboro, NC   December 6th, 2007 8:56 am ET

las vegas- you can't be born a muslim. religion is a decision.

Barack is the only genuine, honest and stable candidate in this race. According to some of you, if we give the nomination to him, the GOP will win again. The only thing the GOP has is dirty politics now that the new evangelicals (Rick Warren & co.) aren't backing them. SO for once in a blue moon, can we nominate an honest candidate that isn't dirty. The Americans should be able to open their eyes to see the difference. If they don't, then they deserve a country gone to hell in a handbasket.

opelika alabama greg   December 6th, 2007 8:54 am ET

obama what a name sounds like a terriost name . i beleive he is a terriost no matter what he says and everyone eles does too.i bet if you asked aterriost if he is a muslim in the united staes he would say no too .

Theo, Manorville, NY   December 6th, 2007 8:52 am ET

Hey Freeman of Texas:

Clinton is involved in scandalous affair. Clinton denied then(Hillary)Clinton response: We will not tolerate this type of behavior.

Ha ha ha .. see a pattern

Seam, Philly PA   December 6th, 2007 8:49 am ET

To Paul Barnard Lynn: Please clarify what you mean by your vague comment. It makes no sense.

Iowans 4 Clinton   December 6th, 2007 8:28 am ET

People are coming to see Oprah, just like a train wreck, you stop, look, and keep going, doesn’t mean they will vote for obama? The saddest part of this is that Oprah is using her TV viewers that supported her show because she has praised herself as being opposed race bias and especially gender discrimination, NOW LOOK AT HER, completely the opposite. We are witnessing the true Oprah Winphrey. I can tell you as a previous black woman and faithful oprah viewer, I will no longer be interested in anything that is connected to oprah… She just put women back 50 years and black women back 100 years! PLEASE Wise up IOWA /NH ladies! This is about the safety and security for ALL our children, their education and most importantly their health care. Shame on you Oprah for selling out your supporters…We adored who we thought you were…

Kirk, Fl   December 6th, 2007 8:23 am ET

That's a real shame for the Clinton Campain.

Obama, you now have my vote.

Paul Barnard Lynn Indiana 47355   December 6th, 2007 8:19 am ET

you can say all you want, but he is trying to get into the highest office so he can bring the people of the US to his level.

therealist   December 6th, 2007 8:15 am ET

The Clintonian effect on American politics. You should expect 4 more years of these trailer park tactics if you vote for Hillary.

wm marshall las vegas,nv   December 6th, 2007 8:10 am ET

he was borm a muslim.

WDRussell, East Liverpool, Ohio   December 6th, 2007 8:10 am ET

This is why the GOP is so afraid of Hillary.
She campaigns just like they do.

Jim   December 6th, 2007 8:06 am ET

Gordon Terrace, Stanton, IA

Agreed that the candidates cannot micro manage volunteers' behavior but they can certainly lead the effort not encouraging personal attacks.

Unfortunately, Clinton is using her scripted attacks on Obama because of trailing in the polls and her volunteers are looking up to their leader and picking up some patterns.

Sean: Odenton, MD   December 6th, 2007 8:06 am ET

I know that some may think that the content of the email about Obama and him being a Muslim and a plant is a hoax, whether or not that is true is one issue, but who in there right mind would vote for this guy, regardless of his religion?

He would be detrimental to this nation if he were a Muslim or not. He has no real experience and in my opinion has only one agenda which would have a severely negative impact on the majority population of this nation.

It does not seem so far fetched to believe he has an ulterior motive and has secrets to keep, lest we forget who we are at war with and why.

Jim   December 6th, 2007 8:01 am ET

"Within minutes, Clinton Internet Director Peter Daou posted a message from campaign manager Patti Solis Doyle disavowing the remarks. The New York senator’s campaign immediately severed all links with Rose, a Jones County volunteer."

haha, with in minutes…I am sure the Clinton News Network was counting the minutes

JB Boston MA   December 6th, 2007 7:57 am ET

This is low, even for Hillary.

What a s bag.

This is lower than if Obama went after the Clinton infidelity or Hillary's reported lesbian affairs with her chief of staff.

We all know what would happen if Obama went down that road. Hillary would be crying foul, and all you Hill fans would label him the devil.

Well guess what? All you Hill fans are rooting for the devil!

OG, Washington, DC   December 6th, 2007 7:48 am ET

So, what's the problem with him being a Muslim? He's not as corrupted as the rest of the gang.

Les WA   December 6th, 2007 7:45 am ET

Nader supporters wanted Obama to win the nomination, they're the same group of people who gave the election to Bush in 2000 against Al Gore; they're doing it again.

Neoconservatives wanted Obama to get the nomination, they knew against any of their candidates (GOP), they'll be back in the WH and regain seats in state level. Even Hannity (foxnews), a neoconservative, defends Obama but criticize Hillary. The GOP knew they have NO CHANCE to keep the WH and regain seats they've lost against the democrats in state level if Hillary is the nominee. I believe Senator Robert Ford of SC when he said the democratic party is doomed if Obama is the nominee. This country is not color blind, not counting the fact Obama lack the conviction to act. He doesn't have a track record either as he stated before when asked about his record as state senator; "they don't keep records", but has the gall to ask Hillary to release hers.

Emily, Waterloo, Iowa   December 6th, 2007 7:38 am ET

Senator Clinton has had to deny many things going on in her campaign…

If it were Judy Rose's intent to show what an uproar such accusations were, then I would assume that she would at least add something like "this is an uproar" in the subject field. That would show her intentions. Simply forwarding an email to county officials seems a bit fishy to me.

Also-this was not just a volunteer-she was also a county coordinator, and also a member of Hillary's Women's Leadership Council.

I don't believe this to be an isolated event. Many in Hillaryland are incensed by the support Obama is accruing-a recent report states that some "hate" Obama for denying Clinton the nomination.

At the grassroots level, it seems that there is a pattern of behavior developing here. Rather than Senator Clinton disavowing isolated incidents, she should make a general statement that she does not tolerate such slurs. Meaning Hillary should play fair and be principled in her engagement.

But I would argue that by going on the negative like Clinton has, maybe in a different tone that would not harm her support, she is still engaging in these acts. Of course if the mother bee launches baseless attacks, her worker bees are sure to follow.

Why do I still expect Senator Clinton to take responsibility rather than pleading ignorance to every liability she has been forced to address?

I don't know.

These are dirty politics Senator Clinton. Unless a larger effort is made on your behalf to tone down the language, these attacks will certainly continue.

Please don't condone these acts by simply denying them. Learn to take more responsibility for what is going on. Stand up to this bigotry.

These acts only serve to affirm what people think about Hillary. Willing to do anything to win, combined by a penchant to secrecy and dirty tricks.

Anonymous   December 6th, 2007 7:21 am ET

your man!!!

Bob, DC   December 6th, 2007 7:19 am ET

That Clinton volunteer was simply acting like a "Clinton". This incident illustrates the underlying attitude among those within and near the Hillary campaign — "Win at all cost".

Mo, Baltimore MD   December 6th, 2007 7:04 am ET

The involvement of this Clinton campaign volunteer in spreading false rumors is incredibly bothersome to me. Given how easily disproved this rumor is, it seems fundamentally dishonest to tolerate its propagation.

Nita - San Antonio   December 6th, 2007 6:58 am ET

This is just another trick from Obama's side. A decoy volunteer to try and smear Clinton. We stand stand strong behind Clinton – she is the strength.

Hoping in SA   December 6th, 2007 6:55 am ET

Of course he isn't a muslim – he was raised w/his white mother and her parents beliefs. Give us a break.

Daveyt MD   December 6th, 2007 6:52 am ET

Atleast its true! not the negative lies hes trying to sell on Clinton

Jojo Hillem NH   December 6th, 2007 6:51 am ET

awwwhh…poor poor little obama winphrey… Looks like Oprah has finally replaced Michelle Obama, soon she will jump infront of obama, listeb to her workers,she is one power hungry woman,

Maryann Iowa   December 6th, 2007 6:27 am ET

Obama was/is Muslim until hew saw that voters are not in favor of it. What is he now? He changes each day. One day he’s white, he next he’s black, JUST can't TRUST this guy. A TRUE EXAMPE OF A FLIP FLOPPER, he's too inexperienced to even campaign, let alone be a president. Obama supporters look stupid to the rest of the country, its obvious they think they are voting for Oprah, and maybe they are, who knows who obama would get to do the job. He can’t….

Jimenez - Texas   December 6th, 2007 6:26 am ET

This is just another dirty trick from Obama. Most likely this volunteer had been enlisted to try to smear Clinton. Its not working – we all know how low Obama can go. It's not going to work. And, you people you are dinging Clinton – shame on you. We stand strong in our support. CLINTON 05

Mike, Grand Rapids MI   December 6th, 2007 6:25 am ET

Obama's father was a Muslim. Obama attended a Muslim school. At time(s) he grew up in a Muslim neighborhood. Easy to see where these stories begin.

mark wilkes barre pa   December 6th, 2007 5:55 am ET

this one is just some moron thinking there helping poor hillary.It looks like with the friends hillary has who needs enemies !! Still ,it's good to see these hack jobs exposed for what they are trouble making want-A-be cronies.

Willy, Chesapeake, VA   December 6th, 2007 5:41 am ET

Another vast right wing conspiracy by President Bush. A shocker, Mrs. Bill Clinton is as pure as driven snow!

Independent in IA   December 6th, 2007 5:25 am ET

Poor Obama….It's acceptable for your campaign volunteers to engage in attacks on Clinton, but when the tables get turned you want to cry 'foul'. Get used to it buddy-boy, it's gonna get even hotter in the kitchen…

Dr B Meftah, Farmington Hills, MI   December 6th, 2007 5:17 am ET

I wish that poeple stop using Islam (or any other religion) as their Troy Horse in politics. Defaming any religion is a shame. And to be a Muslim is not given to everybody. Only the few can embrasse this Honorable religion and follow its rules.

Rick, MD   December 6th, 2007 4:48 am ET

I never cease to be amazed at the trivial garbage that CNN seems to consider news worthy. Every single day, CNN becomes more like the National Star or other tabloid trash. Show some class CNN…. PLEASE!

Goody - Eugene, OR   December 6th, 2007 4:10 am ET

Tom, She's coming unglued? Don't make me laugh. She can through it with the best of them, big boy!

David Russell, B'ham AL   December 6th, 2007 3:57 am ET

"Its too bad things became so negative in what could have been a chance to recreate politics."

(I say) Don't start no stuff and there will be no stuff. Last 6 weeks Obama has repeatedly called Hillary a liar in an eloquent way. Obama has been handled with kid gloves by MSNBC/Washington Post. Now these same organizations are attacking CNN for being fair to all the candidates in a recent debate. CNN will stand up to anyone, thats why I watch the "Situation Room" every day.

Hamd, Santa Clara, California   December 6th, 2007 3:07 am ET

Gosh, it being a Muslim such a bad thing these days?

A Proud American Muslim

hodan   December 6th, 2007 2:34 am ET

since when did it become a crime to be a muslim?
we dont need him to be muslim and he could only dream about becomming us president.

minneapolis,mn

theprofessional   December 6th, 2007 2:33 am ET

For someone who is so "experienced" and "ready to lead", it's incredible how quickly Hillary Clinton's campaign is falling apart. Everything was going great when no one was paying attention to the race. But now that the spotlight is on, she seems to be melting under the heat.

Al, Buffalo, NY   December 6th, 2007 2:27 am ET

So what if Obama really WAS a Muslim? Why would that matter anyways? Not all Muslims want to destroy America…

Bill, NY   December 6th, 2007 1:59 am ET

Get real people: America will NEVER vote in a black president. Period. It is too backward a country. Obama supporters are wasting their vote…and giving the Republicans a firm hold of the reigns. Vote Hillary, a VIABLE candidate to oust The George.

Tim, Madison WI   December 6th, 2007 1:23 am ET

If this volunteer didn't want people to misunderstand her intent, why didn't she add a note onto the forward that said, "I just wanted you all to see exactly what kind of crap is being spewed by ignorant people who care little for the issues. We don't agree with Senator Obama's politics, but we refuse to stoop to this level of rhetoric in our campaign. Please be on the lookout." And then add a link to one of the numerous sites which debunks this forward. Would've been as simple as that. As it stands, Clinton's entire campaign staff looks like a bunch of liars who are willing to slander members of their own party (heck, slandering anyone with untrue statements is bad enough) for the sake of winning an election. The Clinton campaign is getting desperate. Obama '08.

Jaik , chicago, IL   December 6th, 2007 1:21 am ET

awful lot of double talk here. plain and simple , the clinton campaign staffer sent a completely false email forward out to discredit Obama with the lowest form of trash, racist bigotted fearmongering, Bush and Hillary are so simillar, she saw how Rove's dirty tricks were succesful and now she is trying it out, with great success.

Marbury, Des Moines   December 6th, 2007 1:19 am ET

La'kitgum, you wrote "Republican know they can get back the Whitehouse if any of the 2 candidates stood against Obama because Obama has nothing to show for experience which will be the cornerstone of Republican assault." Do you really think that's more worrisome than the absolutely endless bounty of material that the Repubs have stored up for Mrs. Bill? And, further, do you really think that with the scores of skeletons in all of the possible repub candidates backgrounds the tired "experience" routine will defeat Obama. Wake up people, this man is special — a president that people might actually love rather than one we all hold our nose and vote for.

Nadir, Peoria IL   December 6th, 2007 1:12 am ET

this is the same kind of racist rhetoric that the Germans used against the Jews… and now it is here in America.

Thanks,
Nadir Ahmed
http://www.ExamineTheTruth.com

farleftheis   December 6th, 2007 1:10 am ET

From his radical stance on abortion to his prominence in the corruption scandals that has been virtually ignored by the mainstream media, Barack Obama is not fit to be Senator — not to mention the next President of the United States.

Obama has declared his presidential intentions, but it is up to well-informed and energetic conservatives like you to spare our nation from the scourge of a far-left President Barack Huessin Obama.
140 missed votes in this current Congress

No vote for barack hussein obama

Anonymous, Somewhere, MI   December 6th, 2007 1:01 am ET

"Obama has nothing to show for experience which will be the cornerstone of Republican assault."

If that's the case the Dems might want to back Richardson, Biden, or Dodd. Each of the 3 has 20+ years experience in public office. Clinton just has 6 years in the Senate.

K Garcia, Raleigh, NC   December 6th, 2007 12:52 am ET

After reading some of the comments here, I thought I would ask…Just out of curiousity, how can you tell if someone is a Muslim? What do they look like? What do they sound like? How can you REALLY tell if someone is Muslim?Not that Obama is (or isn't), and anyone who really thought about the idea of someone trying to overthrow the government by running for President would know that's just an insane accusation…but it would be interesting to know what exactly the general public uses to define what a Muslim is. Anyway, might be diving in too deep, but just a thought!

Troy   December 6th, 2007 12:28 am ET

Oh yes, let me think? Obama is not a Muslim. His middle name is just HUSSEIN, his FATHER was a Muslim, he was raised in INDONESIA, the largest Muslim population in the world, Obama name doesn't sound Muslim. Well, I guess he is NOT a Muslim or is it really?

Bill Pittsburgh, PA   December 6th, 2007 12:27 am ET

Disgraceful reporting, CNN. Putting this on the front page only fuels the heinous rumors. These emails were everywhere apparently-it's not a story. Certainly not front papge material. And attaching the "earlier" story of Clinton's 'dirty tricks' accusation is ludicrous-that was even less news worthy.

anonymous, Philadelphia, PA   December 6th, 2007 12:20 am ET

Barack Obama is not a Muslim. Everyone is cool with that. BUT, am I the only one who missed this? How is being a 'Muslim' — i.e. status — substantive proof of plotting to destroy the United States. Such Muslim hatred. Tsk Tsk Tsk. Bad Bad Bad.

Ryan, New Jersey   December 6th, 2007 12:18 am ET

Her intent was misunderstood??? How could her intent have been anything other than to slander Obama? Simply idiotic.

Arnold Flick, La Jolla CA   December 6th, 2007 12:17 am ET

Arnold Flick La Jolla CA USA
Let's take Obama's word that he is not a Muslim now, but at one point he certainly was: natural father a Muslim, Stepfather a Muslim, educated in Muslim schools in a Muslim country. By Muslim rules, his father alone makes Obama a Muslim, to say nothing of what followed. If it's fair to question Romney on Mormonism, then it's fair to ask Obama why he left the Muslim faith, and how he feels about it now; he has said he became a Christian without an epiphany. We are, after all, talking about the Presidency, and we are war with a significant portion of the Muslim world. The relationship of the President to the Muslim faith of his childhood is a matter of national interest, and needs to be spelled out.

John Adkisson, Sacramento, California   December 6th, 2007 12:15 am ET

I have never seen a candidate self-destruct so quickly (short of a personal scandal) as Clinton is doing in Iowa. Does she not know that even if she were to harm Obama with smears, she would simply help a third candidate while destroying her own chances?

Or does she make that distinction? It appears that Clinton simply despises Obama because he is everything she can never be. If she does not get a grip — she will soon be toast.

Brett, Pembroke, MA   December 6th, 2007 12:06 am ET

"The former Clinton volunteer insisted “she was just sending it along so people know what kind of information is out there,” not because she believed the charges herself."

Right…

Then why didn't Ms. Rose add a little note at the beginning of her forwarded e-mails explaining what she now claims. I'm not buying it. Sounds more like she is desperately trying to cover her behind and salvage her reputation. Despicable.

Coming right off of the Hillary campaign's below-the-belt hit against Obama's grade school essays, this incident makes me want to support Obama more and more. The Hillary campaign has been disgusting me in recent days.

Sophy   December 5th, 2007 11:51 pm ET

I just looove to see Hillary stick to those men!!! You go girl.

Keith, Chicago   December 5th, 2007 11:45 pm ET

As much as some people might try to suggest it, I'm quite certain that Hillary Clinton had nothing to do with sending out this email or condoned in any way.

That being said, just one day ago she publicly complained that Obama was running a "dirty" campaign because an overzealous supporter of his supposedly got in a heated converation over the phone with a woman who said she was voting for Clinton instead of Obama (I say "supposedly because her campaign didn't even bring forth any hard evidence that it happened, when asked). So pretty much, all of this is making Clinton look extremely hypocritical (if not worse), given that she tried to smear Obama's name and character just because he had an overzealous supporter supposedly raised his voice on the phone (and what candidate doesn't have at least a few supporters who aren't perfect)…and then a day later, here it turns out that she has supporters who are spreading out blatantly racist, false, and disgusting emails to others.

But Obama, like the classy person he is, has decided to not even comment on this and simply just focus on presenting his ideas on how he would make our country a better place, if he were to be elected President. I think he's a stand-up guy with a lot of character and integrity.

John, Des Moines, Iowa   December 5th, 2007 11:37 pm ET

"Obama is not, and never has been, a Muslim."

And…. more importantly… he is not part of a plot to destroy the United States.

Eye on the ball here, CNN. Eye on the ball…

Susan Charlotte, NC   December 5th, 2007 11:30 pm ET

Same shady under the table stuff Bush "staff" did to McCain. But apparently Bush shouldn't be responsible for what people do on his behalf either. More effective then most people think, she can deny it and in the end it will slip into voters' subconscious. If the greatest country in the world can't find anyone else better than Bush and Hillary Clinton to run it for 12, maybe 16 years, then that is absolutely pathetic.

Frank, Boca Raton, FL   December 5th, 2007 11:28 pm ET

For Hilary's camp to say that they are not responsible for the actions of an over "Zealous" volunteer worker is to take the easy way out.

There seems to be a pattern emerging from Hilary's camp. To use a sports analogy, she may throw an interception to her detriment if she doesn't stop playing foolishly.

Bots, Seattle   December 5th, 2007 11:28 pm ET

If these are the kind of people taking part in her campaign, can you imagine what kind of people will surround her in the White House? Her husband is a cheat and liar and before her and the nation commit adultery and she probably didn't even walk up to him and slap his silly looking mug. He's no good and it'll be more of the same unless people start looking out for what's good for the country instead of playing games with the country. She needs to step aside and let Sen. Biden tangle with the Republicans. He's the only candidate who can go 15 rounds with the Republican nominees. Everyone knows that the Clinton's are a couple of cut-throats and will step on anyone who gets in their way.

CriticalThinker , New York, NY   December 5th, 2007 11:22 pm ET

…and so what if he were a Muslim? how would that be relevant at all to whether or not he is a good American or whether or not he would be a good president?

Jonathan Brennan, New York, NY   December 5th, 2007 11:08 pm ET

What trivial matters of debate!
The coverage of the Democratic "frontrunner's" is one step away from tabloid headlines with all the seriousness of Paris Hilton.

ISSUES. Please, won't one of these candidates say something substantive.

There is an excellent video on Wonkette right now that elucidates how much more presidential Joe Biden is on issues that actually matter to this country. Enough Obama/Clinton trifle. THEY ARE NOT SERIOUS ENOUGH ON THE ISSUES TO WIN IN A GENERAL ELECTION.

Adam   December 5th, 2007 10:53 pm ET

Are these really Democrats or fakes with ego? Are you all Republicans in Sheep’s clothing?

You bicker over silly and irrelevant issues and come across as people without direction.

The republicans had control of the congress along with the white house for 6 years before the democrats and the rest of this country were able to break this cozy relationship that has been bad for this country.

George bush and the Republicans acquired a country and its office of the presidency that is well respected around the world with a robust economy surplus.

The bottom line is this; they took office of a great country and ran the country straight to the ground and now we have a ballooned debt and a foreign policy mired in quagmire…

Now you as democrats have a real opportunity to take our great country back from the zealots and re-direct it back on the right track. You have issues like Jobs, Healthcare, Bankruptcy, Foreign Policy, Cost of Living, Habeas Corpus, Supreme Court assignment, our children’s future, Education and much more at stake, but all you want to do bicker over someone’s religion and who posted it..?

Silly, totally Silly…

I will tell you this as a tired and fed up Democrat, if you lose the white house once more to the Republicans, remember when you behave like brats who totally have lost sight of what is important.

If you cannot clearly direct your thinking appropriately and focus strategically, YOU DEFINITELY DESREVE TO LOSE THE WHITE HOUSE TO THE REPUBLICANS… AGAIN!!!

Think people Think!!!

Willy,Chesapeake,VA   December 5th, 2007 10:51 pm ET

Another Clinton smear. Oh well, the friends of Clinton media will cover for Princess.

Aaron Smithsburg, Maryland   December 5th, 2007 10:50 pm ET

Thank you CNN for posting my comments most of the time, I get a little frisky sometimes, I have a big mouth. I try to purposely raise contention and questions. That's the great thing about america, free thinking people with many different ideas settling on compromise. All we need to do is keep talking.

Tired of Corruption LV   December 5th, 2007 10:44 pm ET

CNN, why doesn't the headline say " Clinton campaign sends Obama slurs".

Jen, New York, NY   December 5th, 2007 10:38 pm ET

La’Kitgum,
Guiliani's not all that experienced himself. His claim to fame was being the NYC mayor during 911, and that's pretty much it.

Steve, Albany, GA   December 5th, 2007 10:38 pm ET

As others have mentioned above, Mrs. Clinton never knows anything about anything. But goes around acting like she the smartest woman in the world. I can not imagine watching Hillary and Bill sleezing up the country again. And another thing, why would she, of all people, attack Obama for running a slush fund. Hello HILPAC, hello Norman funny chi-com money Hsu, hello media matters, hello moveon, hello 1996 chi-com funny money scandal. What is it with these two? I think that they can't help it. They are pathological.

Shane Barber Mableton Ga   December 5th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

I believe it is Barack "Hussein" Obama, I don't know to many Americans with the Hussein name do you?? I believe he did attend a school in the middle east-now what belief it was I don't know, but that is a fact!

Republicans do want Hillary or Obama because it will equal a win for the Republicans !! Because what states will they win when you look at the map of the United States. I know NY,CA,MA,MAss.,PA…but Democrates need someone that can compete in all 50 states!

S.K.M. Boston Mass   December 5th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

Timeline:
The Michigan Democratic Party moves its primary way up.
The Democratic Party slaps their wrists.
All Democratic candidates refuse to campaign there.
Barak Obama, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, and Biden(I think) all have their names withdrawn from the nomination in Michigan unless the State Dems respect party rules.
Hillary Clinton and Dennis Kucinich watch as their only rivals take the brave step forward; out of their way.
The state Dems in Michigan refuse to change their mind and keep the early primary. Hillary Clinton steeples her fingers and crosses Michigan off of her "to do list".

Aruna, San Jose, CA   December 5th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

C'mon gimme a break…Is clinton such a fool that she would jeopardize her own position? I don't think so. Women are wiser than people credit them for. What's not to say that this couldn't have originated from somewhere else, or within the obama camp itself. Since when does everybody believe whatever the media says? People read whatever is written, but not necessarily lap it all up!

KEITH JAMES LOUTTIT   December 5th, 2007 10:27 pm ET

It's my understanding that the volunteer was actually an Obama plant!

"The Obama campaign is not commenting on the incident."

What goes around, comes around.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   December 5th, 2007 10:20 pm ET

This is just an example of how low can you go, can you go real low. Trust me when I say, Obama has been checked under the bottom of his feet more so than any other candidate. Our next door neighbors are more likely to be Muslins than Obama.

Josh Sparks, Nevada   December 5th, 2007 10:19 pm ET

I liked him better before he started hiding under Oprah's skirt too.

At least Hillary's making it back to DC to do her job in the Senate.

That's more than can be said for Obama.

My Mamma always said, If it looks to good to be true, it probably is!

Such is the case with Obama. He can talk the talk but lacks the experience and strength to walk the talk.

Hillary has my vote.

chris, chicago, il   December 5th, 2007 10:17 pm ET

Obama: Hill says that you started running for prez as soon as you got to congress. At least you made it on your own. I say Hill started running for Senate as soon as she found out that her husband got the ash tray confused twith the intern or vice versa.

Somewhere she was collecting a club sandwich.

http://www.golden-lamp.com

Anonymous   December 5th, 2007 10:07 pm ET

Her LIES will find her out. Hillary Clinton cannot tell the truth, she doesn't know what it is by now.
Jane from Houston, TX

mable Limington, Me.   December 5th, 2007 9:57 pm ET

Have the picture of Obama not sulate the flag or say the Pledge with the other are doing???

Liberal Chic   December 5th, 2007 9:54 pm ET

Freeman, Dallas TX :

Shove it, dude. The last time I checked, Obama was becoming as eeky as any old politician. And he's just getting started.

Yousef, Minneapolis, MN   December 5th, 2007 9:48 pm ET

I didn't realize simply BEING a Muslim can be something you're "accused" of. Especially considering there are over a 1 billion Muslims in the world, including at least 6 million in the United States. Even this administration has high ranking Muslims, i.e Zalmay Khalilzad, the US Ambassador to the United Nations. Another demonstration of how bigoted some people in this country have become.

Mitty, Miami Gardens, Florida   December 5th, 2007 9:43 pm ET

Hillary, I am really suprised at you and your campaign. Shame, shame, shame. How could you stoop that low?

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky   December 5th, 2007 9:42 pm ET

Tom Dedham, Mass, do you believe that kind of silly game? Hillary is not that stupid, she knows better than Obama. Obama's supporters try everything to hurt Hillary, I don't believe that story also I don't trust Obama, our Country will be worse than now if Obama wins.

Sean, Washington, DC   December 5th, 2007 9:36 pm ET

Does anyone read anymore? It says the email is a hoax that is circulating. While it is ugly out there, I doubt the Clinton campaign would sanction this type of attack. Do your homework everyone; this is an isolated incident that has nothing to do with real issues and everything to do with the average American, and media in general, hoping for a conspiracy that doesn't exist.

matt   December 5th, 2007 9:36 pm ET

This is all getting very tiresome. Just realize that you're in the same party and try to run a clean race.

http://political-buzz.com/

hey allons,tn   December 5th, 2007 9:34 pm ET

hey don't support any candiate for president that want taxes cuts permanent if taxes cuts permanent get pass in to law then the rich billionairs will never pay taxes the taxes will be paid by the poor and middle class then the bush administration will want to raise taxes on the poor and middle class congress don't change the tax code to make the poor and middle class foot the tax bill TELL g.w. bush to go suck a cup of oil

Tim, DC   December 5th, 2007 9:34 pm ET

What a lame excuse from the Clinton campaign. The e-mail can be found online and people should judge it for themselves. I for one see no indication that this volunteer was "informing" people that this stuff was out there.

To think I used to like Clinton, I switched back and forth a few times between her and Obama before settling on Obama. I think everyone is getting sick of how she is running her campaign.

Waqas Ahmad from Knoxville, TN   December 5th, 2007 9:32 pm ET

So what if he did turn out to be a Muslim? I know he's not but why is being Muslim something bad? This story makes it look like it's a Muslim trait to want to "destroy the United States" and that if Obama was a Muslim, he would be evil. Fascism is rising in America.

Sean, Detroit, MI   December 5th, 2007 9:30 pm ET

DIRTY, DISGUSTING politics! It's really easy to throw a volunteer under the bus and act like this was an isolated incident. Unfortunately, this entire lie has been tied to the Clinton campaign all along.

I do not want Slimy Shrillary Clinton running our country.

tom carter   December 5th, 2007 9:24 pm ET

Hillary is a dishonest person, why you vote for her?, thats what she get in her belt as experience!! She is a looser LOOOOOOOSER!!!!!!!!!

Washington, DC   December 5th, 2007 9:21 pm ET

Tsk.. sound like one of Obama's dirty trick. I don't think Hilary did it.

Shame on you all people pointing at Hilary without any evidence.

Bradley Schaubs, Greeley, CO   December 5th, 2007 9:20 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton, I have a genuine, non-planted question for you: What did Mr. Obama do that made you feel it necessary to attack him in the most bizarre and childish ways?

biggdawg   December 5th, 2007 9:17 pm ET

I'm sorry. Did I miss something? Did she write it and send it along?

I'm sure Obama campaign folks send along slanderous emails about their candidate so people know what's out there.

CNN is now strangely working overtime on behalf of Obama.

Christian, Tampa FL   December 5th, 2007 9:17 pm ET

This is very unfortunate for the Clinton campaign. First Kindergate, and now this? If Hillary wants to run the nation, she needs to gain control of her campaign.

This ridiculous conception that Barack Obama is a Muslim shows the bigotry and moronism of our nation, and for Clinton to be linked to it even remotely is just going to damage her. It's unacceptable and she needs to make a HUGE apology.

C   December 5th, 2007 9:11 pm ET

This is really STUPID. Get religion and race out of the election. Vote for the best person to bring all people together and that would be OBAMA.

Brian, Milwaukee, WI   December 5th, 2007 9:10 pm ET

Yeah, well, as much as I dislike Mrs. Bill Clinton, they are correct. Obama DID attend Muslim school.

Henry, VA   December 5th, 2007 9:09 pm ET

Why are Americans so racist/religiophobic?

Bob Wuchte Sandwich, IL   December 5th, 2007 9:07 pm ET

Being from Illinois I find Barack Obama a disappointment, because when it comes time to vote on critical issues he does not vote. At least Hillary Clinton makes a effort to get back for important votes. Though I feel Barack Obama is a good candidate I truly believe the american people still have racism feelings and when it comes to voting for a african american I do not believe they will follow through in the national elections. My gut feeling is we Democrats will do best to support Hillary Clinton or Joe Beiden….
Thanks
BobW
Sandwich, Il

SilverB, Lilburn, GA   December 5th, 2007 9:06 pm ET

These Clinton volunteers need HOPE

Jack   December 5th, 2007 9:05 pm ET

Aw, cut her some slack, Freeman. "I don't recall" has already been overused. ;)

As for Obama's "lack of experience", considering the "experience" of the others, it's his greatest strength in the mids of many, including myself. As it is, he still has as much, if not more, than say, Hillary….
He certainly has over 40 years more experience being a decent human being than any of them.

Dalton Hoffine, Winston-Salem, NC   December 5th, 2007 9:04 pm ET

Although I don't think that Clinton should be specifically responsible for her volunteers, this does look bad. Very bad. Someone associated with her campaign made obviously false and smearing accusations about Obama, and now it's hurting her campaign.

I like Obama–I like his positions on issues, and I think he's fine experience-wise. Not too little, and not too much either. It's not exactly easy to become a Senator, and I think we forget that.

Obama/Edwards '08!

Mary, Michigan   December 5th, 2007 9:01 pm ET

What a shame. The more I see of Hillary, the more disappointed I get. As a woman, she is not the candidate that I was hoping for. Barack is looking more presidential each day.

Luk, Toronto, canada   December 5th, 2007 8:59 pm ET

I do not know why Hillary's capm is bringing all this nonessen thing. being in another country does not mean you are going to convert to what that country believe in. If so why Hillary herself always mention her trips to Saudi Arabia? when wore those muslim thing. as we do know that woman are not allowed to not cover their head

Dorothy, Atlanta, Ga.   December 5th, 2007 8:57 pm ET

What a load of crap!
What do you think the Republican attack machine will do if Mr. Obama were to get the nomination. This is nothing. Which candidate do the Rebublicans want? Obama of course, he will be the easiest to destroy in the press. Sean Hannity is defending him on his radio show everyday." Poor Obama, get that mean Hillary".
Vote your fantasy and lose the White House.

Markie Bee, Sacramento, Calif.   December 5th, 2007 8:55 pm ET

La’Kitgum, can you please list Hillary's experience for me and the others? Then match that up to Obama's 11 years of elected legislative experience. Matchup what they have accomplished as senators even though Obama has been one in about 50 percent less time. Go do that now and come back and report your findings. Let the GOP worry about Obama's experience. The Democrats and Whigs did the same thing to Lincoln in 1860, he survived the political assaults and became perhaps our greatest president with NO NATIONAL POLITICAL EXPERIENCE just a boatload of common sense, judgment and courage.

Alice, Evanston, IL   December 5th, 2007 8:50 pm ET

I, and many people I know, received this e-mail. The woman's intent was clear. These were accusations, not just "Hey look at these weird rumors."

Abd. Samad Yusof, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia   December 5th, 2007 8:49 pm ET

Interesting, it shows how rabid Islamophobia is in the US. If a candidate were God forbid 'Muslim' he/she would probably have been stopped at the gates.

Dave, Atlanta, GA   December 5th, 2007 8:49 pm ET

As a democrat, it saddens me that people who would resort to such racist and xenophobic attacks have the nerve to call themselves democrats. When we do that are we really any better than the republicans? I used to think so.

This is not a case of one bad apple. I've seen a lot of Clinton supporters throw around the muslim smear on this very website.

I've heard a lot of Clinton's supporters say that we should support Clinton because she is a winner and she can give the White house back to democrats. Personally, as much as I want to see a democrat in the white house, there are certain things I am unwilling to do to win.

Clinton supporters: I realise you want your candidate to win. But when you resort to Karl Rovian tactics to convince me to support your candidate, you don't get my vote. You just make me ashamed to be a democrat.

Markie Bee, Sacramento, Calif.   December 5th, 2007 8:48 pm ET

If Judy is so innocent then why has she been asked to leave the campaign?

Robert, St Paul MN   December 5th, 2007 8:45 pm ET

"The war of words between both candidates, who are running neck and neck in Iowa polls less than a month before Election Day, has reached a fever pitch over the past week."

We have elections in January?

Anyway, I've gotten those emails too, and I just trash them as the spam they are. I guess Judy didn't know any better.

Dan Ward Saranac Lake ny   December 5th, 2007 8:43 pm ET

This is a case of Ted Kennedy Politics. He has stated something to the effect that spreading lies about your opponent will cause them to defend against the allegation and not allow them to speak to the issues. If they don't mount a defense, people will believe the lies. Remember the Swift Boat Vets?

Judy Rose, Anamosa, IA   December 5th, 2007 8:37 pm ET

“For those who have no sin, you may cast the first stone”. Shame on me for sending an email to my family members and a couple of fellow Central Committee members to show an example of “dirty politics”. Shame on Gary Hart for taking this email and posting it onto a blog for a questionable reason. I was told to resign from Clinton’s campaign which I have, but I decided on my own to resign from the Jones County Democratic Party. I no longer understand what the Democratic Party stands for or for whom they serve. Judy Rose, jcheroke@peoplepc.com, Anamosa, Iowa

Walt, Belton, TX   December 5th, 2007 8:36 pm ET

Hey, its' just another one of Hillary's vast right wing conspiracies at it again!! If not, it certainly must have just been an innocent mistake, cause we all know how innocent the Clintons are…………

Just how far will she/they go? Judging by the past, we ain't seen nothing yet!

Walter, Long Beach   December 5th, 2007 8:35 pm ET

This is kind of yammering is not helping our Party. Ending the war in Iraq and the criminality of the current Republican regime are far more important than Obama, or Clinton, or any of the other candidates.

In my state's primary I will vote for the Democrat that matches up best with the likely Republican nominee. I don't care if he (or she) plays dirty tricks, changes policy positions, lacks experience, or believes in aliens from outer space. If he (or she) will restore the rule of law and repair our relationships abroad, the rest is unimportant (the drivel dished up by the media notwithstanding).

Reggie, Germany   December 5th, 2007 8:34 pm ET

The former Clinton volunteer insisted “she was just sending it along so PEOPLE know what kind of information is out there,” not because she believed the charges herself.

Hmmmmmmmmmmm

Tamika Williams Dallas Texas   December 5th, 2007 8:32 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is not only the most polarizing figure in America today but also the most dishonest. As soon as the polls showed the race tightening in Iowa and New Hampshire the Clinton mud slinging campaign started in earnest. This woman will not stop at nothing to become president. There is no limit to the lies and dirty politics she will put the electorate thru. I hope and pray the voters in Iowa and New Hampshire realize what's going on and vote for anyone other than Hillary Clinton.

Chris, Cincinnati, Ohio   December 5th, 2007 8:28 pm ET

I agree that you cannot possibly screen all of the volunteers. However, all of these games are originating from the same camp. It is the same kind of slash and burn tactics that Jim Carville started under Bill and it worked so why would Hillary do any different?

MK, LOs Angeles, California   December 5th, 2007 8:28 pm ET

This was not the act of a lone volunteer. As other news stories have shown the email was also circulated among Clinton staffers. The email was sent out on Nov. 15. How many other people did Clinton's staffers and volunteers send this email to?

Reddy Princeton NJ   December 5th, 2007 8:27 pm ET

You Know I can be Obama volunteer sitting Clitons and send some stupid stuff about Obama that way they can Blame Clinton. How can the candidate will be resposible for the bad behaviour of the volunteer. I don't trust any of the Deocaric Candidates specially Obama all he has is 3 yrs od Senate experience he misses important Votes in Senate

Dave, Evergreen CO   December 5th, 2007 8:24 pm ET

Say goodnight Hillary.

Kane, New York, NY   December 5th, 2007 8:20 pm ET

Even if her intent was simply to "show people what is out there," (which is weak at best), why even forward it?

In the age of instant mass media (note this blog) and incredible scrutiny in politics, why even touch something like this? Just get rid of it and forget you ever saw it. If she didn't do it maliciously, she did it out of stupidity. Which is worse?

LDC (Honolulu, HI)   December 5th, 2007 8:18 pm ET

Unfortunately, this type of behavior seems to exist across the whole political spectrum. I just received one of the "several hoaxes" over the weekend from one of my right wing Republican friends. The sad part is that some people in the email chain did appreciate the email as "informative", just like the Clinton volunteer's intent.

Brendose, Oceanside, CA   December 5th, 2007 8:17 pm ET

Misunderstood her intent? Like Larry Craig's Bathroom intent? or Mitt Romney's illegal worker intent?? Politicians….it's so funny how quickly they can change their minds, say sorry, or completely deny any involvement..and still win over the American people. We sure are a bunch of lushes!

anon, new york, ny   December 5th, 2007 8:16 pm ET

That volunteer is over-zealous, entirely on her own initiative without instruction from the Hillary camp. She is now fired.

On the other hand, Obama and his camp played dirty tricks in push polling in Iowa. That is the deliberate action of obama and his entire camp, not just the unilateral action of one volunteer.

Tommy, Chicago IL   December 5th, 2007 8:12 pm ET

What exactly was her intent and how was she taken out of context? She was e-mailing people false information about a presidential candidate!! Why not clarify in the e-mail that its false information or just don't send it. Everyday there is another Clinton attack and I'm getting sick of it!!! Is Mike Gravel still running?

Dave, Atlanta, GA   December 5th, 2007 8:11 pm ET

"I just wanted people to see what sort of information was out there" is a pretty pathetic excuse for sending out information she knew to be false. That's a Karl Rovian tactic.

Diane, NYC NY   December 5th, 2007 8:10 pm ET

New Yorkers should be so proud of this Senator who represents them. Is this what they thought they were getting when they elected Mrs Clinton?

tired of corruption lv   December 5th, 2007 8:07 pm ET

I can't believe that there are people out there including the media who are giving her a free pass on all her corrupt, unethical, dishonest behavior.

Smearing a person's character for one's own benefit shows very little character.

Clinton not only has poor judgement but no ethics or morals.

banko   December 5th, 2007 8:04 pm ET

Old Clintonian vicious tactics. This is no surprise. I long suspected the Clintons were behind the Obama smear campaigns. They disguised every evil thing they do and blamed it on the Republicans. Thank GOD they got caught this time.

Les WA   December 5th, 2007 7:59 pm ET

Obama is a MUSLIM, his father is a MUSLIM, what does that make him other than a MUSLIM, check Sharia Law. That's his HERITAGE! He is a christian but his father is a Muslim, his stepfather was a muslim too.

I don't believe in political correctness, I say things as is! Wake up people, stop being politically correct.

Dennis Daniel Blommington IN.   December 5th, 2007 7:59 pm ET

Clinton’s political strategies are showing the people just what kind of president she will be…underhanded, dirty and cheap. I love watching her flush her votes down the drain.

BERNARD, SCOTCH PLAINS NJ   December 5th, 2007 7:58 pm ET

This woman was not just a volunteer, like some of Hillary's supportors are trying to suggest, she was actually Hillary's:

COUNTY CHAIRPERSON

so yes this is a big deal, cause it shows to want extent Shillary is willing to go to win…and she should be ashamed!

lynn farmington hills mi   December 5th, 2007 7:50 pm ET

Wait just a minute….a Clinton county chair (not that low level either in that they obviously have access to campaign computer files, e-mails etc) is BAFFLED THAT THIS STORY IS BLOWING UP??? She's BAFFLED that a debunked vicious email slandering a sitting U.S. Senator that SHE forwarded from CLINTON campaign resources to OTHER CLINTON CAMPAIGN WORKERS, yes to a Clinton STAFFER PER POLITICO is getting negative press for Hillary's campaign?? And this is Hillary's campaign worker someone who coordinates events on her behalf????
I'M BAFFLED.
she wanted them to know what was "out there"
right.
okay

Ron, TX   December 5th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

The former Clinton volunteer insisted “she was just sending it along so people know what kind of information is out there,” not because she believed the charges herself. == From the article

Yeah, right. And like Mike Penn said, the HRC Campaign was "just joking" about the disgusting kindergarten ridicule they placed on Obama… I wonder how many scapegoat arguments they can try to throw out before people just tell them to shut up.

Madam Hillary '08! Wait! I'm joking! Joking! I would never vote for her. Any democrat but Hillary will do- Obama, Edwards, Biden, Dodd are all amazing people.

Tom Dedham, Mass   December 5th, 2007 7:39 pm ET

“She thinks people misunderstood her intent,” said Gary Hart, who said he spoke with the volunteer, Judy Rose, a short time ago. The former Clinton volunteer insisted “she was just sending it along so people know what kind of information is out there,”

More lies from the campaign.

If it was just people misunderstanding the intent, why can her?

Typical of Clinton politics, put something out there or do something and when you get caught, blame others for your words and misdeeds.

She was taken out of context aws already taken perhaps.

Becoming unglued right before our eyes.

Greg   December 5th, 2007 7:35 pm ET

How stupid can you get. The man is not even Muslim.

La'Kitgum, NH   December 5th, 2007 7:34 pm ET

Some Democrats simply want to see Obama beat Clinton for the wrong reasons. But let them wait for an Obama slap by Guliani or Romney. Republican know they can get back the Whitehouse if any of the 2 candidates stood against Obama because Obama has nothing to show for experience which will be the cornerstone of Republican assault. Then Democrats will be biting their fingers after thinking the next Prez will be Democrat by hook or crook.

Gordon Terrace, Stanton, IA   December 5th, 2007 7:33 pm ET

Candidates cannot be responsible for what their volunteers do. But I am sure Republicans and supporters of other Democratic candidates will be in an uproar. I am not even a Clinton supporter and I do not think she can be held accountable for everyone that volunteers for her. With that said, Senator Obama is my choice for President right now.

Obama 2008

Freeman, Dallas TX   December 5th, 2007 7:27 pm ET

Timeline of denials:

The first Madrassa smear where Clinton was pointed to the source. Clinton denied then Clinton response: We will not tolerate this type of behavior.

Hsu financial campaign mess. Where Hsu is convicted. Clinton denied then Clinton response: We will not tolerate this type of behavior.

Clinton has a plant in one of the townhall. Clinton denied then Clinton response: We will not tolerate this type of behavior.

Robert Novak column where he said Clinton had secret behavior on Obama. Clinton denied then Clinton response: We will not tolerate this type of behavior.

See a pattern???

Bee   December 5th, 2007 7:26 pm ET

Why should i trust Hillary Clinton again? She has zero credibility left. The last time i checked she was attacking Obama but denied doing so.

Shame on Hillary CLinton

Kevin (Houston, TX)   December 5th, 2007 7:25 pm ET

Its impossible to screen for all the crazy zealots who are willing to volunteer. Just look at some of the comments made on these boards. Its too bad things became so negative in what could have been a chance to recreate politics.

Nando, Palm Coast,FL   December 5th, 2007 7:23 pm ET

BAD HILLARY!!! Bad girl bad girl bad bad bad bad !!!!!!!!!

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