December 21, 2007
Posted: 08:00 AM ET

Clinton is campaigning in Iowa.

(CNN) — Democrat Hillary Clinton seemed to launch a new line attack against her leading Democratic rival Thursday, warning voters not to chose a candidate who lacks foreign policy experience because "that kind of logic got us George Bush."

"It is tempting any time things seem quieter for a minute on the international front to think that we don't need a president who is up to speed on foreign affairs and military matters," Clinton said at an Iowa campaign stop.

"That's the kind of logic that got us George Bush in the first place," she continued. "Experience in foreign affairs is critical for ending the war in Iraq, averting war in Iran, negotiating a Middle East peace and dealing with North Korea."

The line seemed to be a swipe at Illinois Sen. Barack Obama, one of Clinton's closest rivals for the Democratic nomination. Obama has served in the Senate since 2005.

Obama spokesman Bill Burton sounded the campaign's familiar mantra in response — that what Obama lacks in foreign policy experience he makes up in judgment.

“While Senator Clinton takes a break from her ‘likeability tour’ to go back on the attack, Sen. Obama, the only major candidate who opposed both the Iraq war and the rush to war in Iran, will continue to demonstrate why he has the judgment to turn the page on the Bush-Cheney foreign policy,” Burton said.

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • Iowa


Equal Opportunity for Wives in America :o)   December 24th, 2007 2:14 am ET

Everyone knows Michelle wears the pants in the Obama family. So what is everyone so worried about? America ran just fine under 8 years of Nancy Reagan didn't it ;) I'm sure Michelle is equally as capable too!

Phyllis MacDonald Media, Pa   December 23rd, 2007 8:35 am ET

Another example of Obamas's lack of experience: In a Democratic primary he names several Rebublicans that he would consider for his cabinet ! ! ! I am a Independent. Was he trying to get my vote. If so it backed fired. It sure was a Great way to alienate Democrates nationally. As a result his chances of becoming president will now totally disappear. Not a smart move.

GRACE   December 23rd, 2007 3:45 am ET

WAS IT THE
SENATOR'S FOREIGN POLICY
EXPERIENCE THAT MADE HER VOTE FOR
THE IRAQ WAR?
BY THE WAY SENATOR OBAMA SPOKESMAN….
RON PAUL WAS ALWAYS AGAINST THE WAR,
TOO AND IN CASE YOU HAVEN'T NOTICED
HE IS A MAJOR CANDIDATE. HE HAS WON
MORE STRAW POLLS THAN ANY OTHER GOP
CANDIDATE AND HE GETS MORE CAMPAIGN
CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE ACTIVE MILITARY
THAN ANY OTHER CANDIDATE $63,440
AND IF WERE NOT VOTING FOR RON PAUL,
I'D BE VOTING FOR BARACK.

Mike Westport Ct   December 23rd, 2007 2:32 am ET

oh, my god. obama is smarter than clinton. that is too funny.

it sounds like Nando has a crush on Obama. too bad obama is married or he could ask him out on a date.

Posted By Liberal Chic : December 20, 2007 10:54 pm
______

Hey, Liberal Chic, Who passed his first Bar Exam and Who Failed her first Bar Exam?

Now, are you still "Ha Ha Haing?"

Oh, and I was born and reared in Iowa and I know a whole lot of folks who will not be voting for Mrs. Bubba Clinton.

Dale Davis, Glendora, California   December 22nd, 2007 11:55 pm ET

Hillary. We want you to bake us some cookies. Then you could teach Chelsea.

Brad, Stockton, CA   December 22nd, 2007 12:28 pm ET

It's time for someone with less experience rather than more; we have already seen where Washington "experience" has led us. It's true that Bush had no experience, yet the powerful people he alligned his administration with do have experience. Hillary's logic is flawed!

mj, Westport CT   December 22nd, 2007 8:40 am ET

This is from another blogger:
Oh yeah she is if she can get so many to believe she has 35 yrs of experience.

For Heavens sake what experience does Hillary Clinton Have? She claims 35 years of experience doing what? Being Bill's "perfect" wife for 10 years as 1st lady of Arkansas, his "perfect" wife in the white house for another 8.

If this is experiences, America brace your self for LAURA BUSH 2012, Chelsea Clinton 2020

LAURA BUSH's Qualification:

1. Bush 41's Daugther in law……10yrs experience

2. First Lady of Texas…… 8yrs of experience

3. 1st lady to Bush 43…….8yrs

Boy, years and years of experience and she's even nicer.

HILLARY AMERICANS ARE ALLERGIC TO BULL

Posted By Pope : December 21, 2007 11:24 am
____
Pope, you really hit the nail on it's head.

Alice, VA   December 22nd, 2007 8:22 am ET

ONLY the Clinton coolaid drinkers will believe this woman. She has no demonstrable experience in the field of foreign experience. Surely she's not including hubby's experience on her resume…is she? I guess her approach is, say it often enough and people will believe her lies to be true…apparently she does, anyway.

caforjoe   December 22nd, 2007 12:58 am ET

If you don't want to go light on foreign policy experience, then vote for someone who has it, and a track record of results – Joe Biden. Stop this ridiculous infighting between HRC and Obama, neither of whom has any real experience outside of their own manufactured worlds.

Jose Card   December 21st, 2007 10:08 pm ET

The photo shows Hillary is tap-dancing around the topic on foreign policy experience. Incompetent people simply have no clue and brag about what they don't know. A nearly empty bottle makes a lot more noises than a full one.

Governor Richardson doesn't brag about his foreign policy experience at all. Hillary belongs to a totally different class of politicians.

Michael Columbus, IN   December 21st, 2007 7:59 pm ET

I'm still confused. What foreign policy experience does HRC have that Obama doesn't? Oh, that's right. She and Chelsea traveled to 80 some countries and we paid for it. How could I have forgotten. Maybe she'll share her photo albums with us.

Boo-hoo Hillary.
America is tired of Bushes and Clintons.

Let's start fresh.

Obama 08

Travis Medford, Oregon   December 21st, 2007 7:34 pm ET

Joe Biden is the only Democratic candidate who can go toe to toe with Mccain on a war and national security debate and win, and if Gulianni or Huckabee or even Romney won their parties nomination, not only would Biden win that debate on foreign policy and national security with these candidates, he could do it blindfolded. Best candidate by far Joe Biden.

xtina chicago IL   December 21st, 2007 6:07 pm ET

What has Hillary done specifically that shows great leadership or success in foreign policy matters? And please dont' give examples that involve Senate voting, as that isn't hands-on experience.

Tye Gregory, San Diego CA   December 21st, 2007 5:41 pm ET

Thank you Senator Clinton for endorsing JOE BIDEN.

Trev, Meriden CT   December 21st, 2007 4:33 pm ET

has Hilary ever run anything other then a lemonade stand?

She has my vote for experience!

aj huntington ny.   December 21st, 2007 4:21 pm ET

Hillary doesn't have any foreign policy experience unless you count being a doormat on some trips aboard as experience.

Joe Ossai, Bedford, NH   December 21st, 2007 3:52 pm ET

She is so experienced in foriegn policy and yet she fell for the Iraq crap. She is so experienced in foriegn and yet she try to get America into another stupid war with Iran.

This lady is full of crap. Lady go away, you make me sick.

Go invest in some cattle futures.

PS, KC, MO   December 21st, 2007 3:16 pm ET

If you really want someone with foreign policy experience, go with Richardson. Unfortunately, some of his positions have removed him from consideration, as far as I'm concerned.

Chloe Moore, East St. Louis, IL   December 21st, 2007 3:09 pm ET

Its amazing how so many of our presidential candidates are saying, "Hey look, experience matters." My response is simply, "Your experience (Democratic and Republican alike) has this country involved in a poorly planned two front war that can only end in disaster. Someone needs to remind Clinton that her "experience" caused her to vote for this debacle.

Steve Gilmore, Huntersville NC   December 21st, 2007 2:57 pm ET

What the heck kind of EXPERIENCE did your husband have in 1992 you dumb woman.

Kevin, San Francisco, CA   December 21st, 2007 2:24 pm ET

Clinton is right – Joe Biden should be president. Joe doesn't have to lie and mislead about his experience. He knows this cold.

The Great William Wallace   December 21st, 2007 12:44 pm ET

Yes, ALL that foreign policy experience she learned as the spouse of an elected official…

Using that a benchmark, I guess Betty Ford, Barbara Bush, Tipper Gore and Rosalynn Carter could be president.

The gall of this woman is staggering.

Rich, Pittsburgh PA   December 21st, 2007 12:11 pm ET

I want to elect Jesse from Burnsville, MN as president! Well, no offense but not really.

However, you have stated what I thought should be more than obvious, alas Clinton supporters still fail to see!!!

Nate Sacramento   December 21st, 2007 12:08 pm ET

Anybody but Rudy!

Matthew, Denver   December 21st, 2007 12:07 pm ET

hmmm, this coming from Bush-lite. would I want you with the finger on the button or sitting across from Putin, Kim Jong-Il, Chavez, etc?? I don't think so.

Jarom, Durham, NC   December 21st, 2007 12:03 pm ET

Clinton warns voters not to go light on foreign policy experience – so by that same reasoning we shouldn't vote for her.

Mike, Westport, CT   December 21st, 2007 11:55 am ET

If you suport Mrs. Clinton's argument vote for Joe Biden.

Posted By Dave, Evergreen CO : December 21, 2007 10:55 am

Here! Here!! That is absolutely correct. Biden or Richardson have more foreign policy in their little toe than Hillary has in her whole body.
Joe Biden or Bill Richardson for REAL EXPERIENCE!!

fred greenwich ct   December 21st, 2007 11:48 am ET

Just what foreign policy experience does Hillary Clinton have?
If just because she is married to a president of the USA, that translates to foreign policy experience, then maybe Laura Bush should run for president because she truly must have more foreign policy experience because she served in the white house during wars started by her husband.

Dan (Baltimore, MD)   December 21st, 2007 11:45 am ET

Interesting campaign strategy – I don't have something that's critical for the office I'm seeking, so vote for me. Hillary, Americans aren't sheep. Please stop insulting our intelligence.

Fred Greenwich CT   December 21st, 2007 11:41 am ET

As the daughter of a "Yellow Dog Democrat," I would say that it will be a cold day in HELL before I would vote for Billary Clinton. I voted for Bubba Clinton two times but I noticed when time came to appoint a supreme court justice who could counter Clarence Thomas, old Bubba, America's so called "First Balck President" could not find one African American or other minority for the supreme court.
If Bubba's wife should happen to win the election, I will do what I can to get African Americans to not vote for her. I wonder just what old Hillary really thinks of African Americans. I wonder!!
Her staff has to be taking their lead from the leaders of the pack (Bubba and Hillary).

C. Madison Austin. Texas   December 21st, 2007 11:07 am ET

Let me tell you simple minded people about experience. It can be good or bad, and more often then not it breeds the same results. We've had Clinton politics in the 90's. There was some success, but mired in scandel. This is a new age, new millinium, and new issues this nation currently faces. It does not take rocket scientist to run this country, it just takes common sense and sound judgment.This country does need the same ole same ole experience, This country needs innovation. You cannot solve a 21st centrury promblems with 20th centrury solutions.

AJ, IL   December 21st, 2007 11:02 am ET

This is an amazing political season! Sorry Hillary, your major foreign relations experience has been going to state dinners and other such functions. Honestly, I don't see why other Americans think Hillary has a lot relevant foreign relations experience. I don't care if Hillary traveled to over 100 countries, she was a first lady. When it came time to meet with fellow leaders of other countries and talk about policies, Hillary was not the person there. That is probably why the Bill Clinton's presidential records are sealed up till 2012, because he knows that Hillary's assertions of experience would be in endanger should the records be released to soon.

Bill Clinton had foreign affairs advisors. Once he had the information from his advisors and staff, he made a judgement and decision, then he went forward. Hillary has already demonstrated her poor judgement in an elected public office position by first voting for the war in Iraq and then voting for calling the Iranian Revolutionary Guard (which is part of the Iranian Government) terrorists.

Curtis Madison, Austin, TX   December 21st, 2007 11:01 am ET

Let me tell you simple minded people about experience. It can be good or bad, and more often then not it breeds the same results. We've had Clinton politics in the 90's. There was some success, but mired in scandel. This is a new age, new millinium, and new issues this nation currently faces. It does not take rocket scientist to run this country, it just takes common sense and sound judgment.This country does need the same ole same ole experience, This country needs innovation. You cannot solve a 21st centrury promblems with 20th centrury solutions.

K Foong, Brooklyn, NY   December 21st, 2007 11:01 am ET

In response to Clinton's warning about politicians with light foreign policy experience such as Bush, an Obama aid refers to Clinton's taking "a break from her ‘likeability tour’ to go back on the attack."

Well, did not Obama just ATTACK Clinton about her not having a lot of support in the nation?

And does not Obama ATTACK Clinton all the time?

A very aggressive, new generation man politician, Obama ATTACKED Clinton aggressively and relentlessly for one or two weeks prior to her polls going down. At that time, she ignored him.

Now that she is fighting back, Obama and the media make it seem as though Clinton is the attacker. Each time she points out something, they say "ATTACKER!" while doing the same thing all the time. Very dishonest of the media and of the Obama campaign.

And Obama is still ATTACKING Clinton, aggressively and relentlessly.

Also, when Clinton referred to Obama's lack fo foreign policy experience indirectly in the above story, CNN obtained a response from the Obama campaign.

However, when Obama aggressively attacked Clinton in another CNN story today about her supposed lack of support in the nation, CNN did NOT obtain any response from the Clinton campaign. It was SILENCE from the Clinton campaign. Hello?

CNN, this is journalistic malpractice on your part.

There is evidence again that the Media is biased in favor of their Man of the Year Obama.

Dear Media: I know for a disproportionate number of you, Obama is your favourite candidate. He is a new generation man, nakedly aggressive, and a bit of a bully, and you like that. But Media, please stop giving your Favourite Candidate of the Year Obama, a free pass.

I am sick of this dishonesty and bias that I see in the media (in favor of their Man of the Year, Obama).

Dave, Evergreen CO   December 21st, 2007 10:55 am ET

If you suport Mrs. Clinton's argument vote for Joe Biden.

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   December 21st, 2007 10:53 am ET

HONESTLY, how can Hillary brag about her foreign policy "experience" (purportedly garnered during her time as first lady, which is not an elective office), when she VOTED FOR THE IRAQ WAR.

Way to go, Hillary, all of your foreign policy "experience" enabled you to make a sound judgment that cost the lives of thousands of young Americans.

Curtis Madison, Austin, TX   December 21st, 2007 10:50 am ET

Let me tell you simple minded people about experience. It can be good or bad, and more often then not it breeds the same results. We've had Clinton politics in the 90's. There was some success, but mired in scandel. This is a new age, new millinium, and new issues this nation currently faces. It does not take rocket scientist to run this country, it just takes common sense and sound judgment.

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   December 21st, 2007 10:50 am ET

I am so sick of Hillary I think I may vomit. She is so, so annoying and hypocritical. PLEASE go away

demwit   December 21st, 2007 10:34 am ET

I've traveled to 23 different countries around the world. Look at me!! I'm a foreign policy expert too..

Beth & Jeff Chicago, IL - HILLARY IN 2008   December 21st, 2007 10:34 am ET

:) WE SUPPORT HILLARY IN 2008

She's the only one who can "roll up her sleeves and clean up the mess" left by the GOP — NOT dreamer boy!!

Or vote Biden or Richardson b/c God save our country if the newbie gets elected – who isn't even wise enough to realize what he DOESN'T KNOW yet; let alone play pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey in the Oval Office –> He clearly could have waited until 2012 or 2016. He's only 47, but he's such a baby that he's demanding to be King now :( Sadly the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Senator Obama is certainly NOT!! AND Oprah should stick with her own life and hawking her Book Club (which she can't even get right all the time either).

Senator Obama wants to raise the minimum age to receive maximum Social Security benefits! How much longer will our parents and elders have to wait to retire? And how much longer will we have to wait for our turn?

NO MORE having to explain to our children – why it's (NOT) OKAY for the President Of Our Nation to do drugs!!! It's time to take back our country and make America proud again.

NO MORE EXCUSES AMERICA!!!!

JUST SAY NO – TO OBAMA IN '08 :(

Bob, Bridgeport, Connecticut   December 21st, 2007 10:31 am ET

What foreign relations experience does Ms. Clinton have? During her husbands presidency, I thought the Secretary of State handles foreign affairs. If she is using her time in the White House as qualifying her experience then houston we have a problem. I just listened to Majic Johnson's endorsement. She has 30 years of helping OUR COUNTRY in foreign relations and debt reduction? When? Where? As a senator and former first lady, when has she been at the lead and primarily responsible for OUR COUNTRY's foreign relation and debt reduction?

JR Matthews, Tampa, FL   December 21st, 2007 10:24 am ET

Did the public miss another USS Victory speech, because I know we missed the start of the war with IRAN. ("Sen. Obama, the only major candidate who opposed the rush to war in Iran.")Burton said. Perhaps this is the first of many knowledgable displays of having Obama and people who are jumping the gun, so to speak, in the White House.

Dalton, Detroit, MI   December 21st, 2007 10:08 am ET

Clinton keeps talking about her leadership on foreign policy but if I'm not mistaken she has never been secretary of state or even a US diplomat so where does all this so called experience come from. Does having a state dinner with the wife of a foreign leader count as foreign policy experience? I think NOT!!!

Nando, Florida   December 21st, 2007 10:04 am ET

ha, ha, ha, ha, ha. oh, my god. i have to wipe the tears off my face and catch my breath. there. i'm done.

ha, ha, ha, ha, ha. oops. can't keep it in.

oh, my god. obama is smarter than clinton. that is too funny.

it sounds like Nando has a crush on Obama. too bad obama is married or he could ask him out on a date.

Posted By Liberal Chic : December 20, 2007 10:54 pm

To Liberal Chic,

Just to set the record straight you probally are a Man ,playing a woman on the web. But what is really sad that the truth hurts people like you. YOU KNOW WHY THIS THIS IS HOME run!!!!!!!!!!

everyday YOU WAKE UP. More and More the World is beggining to look Less like YOU and YOUR KIND.

AND YOU know who you are.

Old MAN we are in New WORLDS!!

ALEXANDER THE GREAT !!!!

Jickson Denver Co   December 21st, 2007 9:59 am ET

It's a colored world out there and you think this woman is going to be able to negotiate with islamic states? Under their laws, Hilary Clinton would have been stoned to death because her husband went out of the marriage. Barack would be a much better choice.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   December 21st, 2007 9:50 am ET

If foreign policy experience is a requirement, then the man would be Biden. He knows what he is talking about. If we are talking about the whole package with other experiences, then it opens things up to other candidates as well. I believe that we can't be looking at just one issue.

Joseph W. Mathews, Manchester, VT   December 21st, 2007 9:30 am ET

Yikes, for once I agree with Hillary. Foreign policy experience is important that's why Biden or Obama are far better choices. The former for years of experience and common sense, the latter for his service on the Foreign Relations Committee and friendship with Dick Lugar. Obama also presents a face to the world that is unsullied by past gaffes, be it spouse or candidate.

Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL   December 21st, 2007 9:26 am ET

Dining with foreign officials as the First Lady–doesn't mean you suddenly know how to negotiate with them. And God knows what Bill would be doing behind the scenes. We would have to wonder–"is that a Bill plan" or Hillary plan? The nation does not need a two-headed President following a dunderheaded President!!

John Edwards–untested, but unmarred. Genuine passion and ability to quickly fill the biggest shoes in the nation–and return dignity to Washington and the White House!!! He's my man.

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   December 21st, 2007 9:06 am ET

Jack, I don't care if you're an Ind or a Dem, you're a moron spewing out Clinton talking points. Can't even think for yourself now, huh?

BTW, Obama is no Harold Ford, so don't even compare the two (although it is easy for racists to do). Candidates that can transcend all of the negativity only come around once or twice in a generation. As someone else on this blog said, at least I can go to bed at night knowing that my candidate has the best interests of ALL Americans in mind.

Obama/Edwards '08

alan St Louis MO   December 21st, 2007 9:01 am ET

CLINTON SUPPOTERS == STUPID BLIND SHEEP want some more Clinton ale?

EXPLAIN ME THIS

SHE voted and supported Bush on the IRAQ war and Bush policies every year. Until she decided to run for president. FACT The only experience I see from her is Bush failed policies she supported.

The biggest example of her BRILLIANT foreign policy leadership is she was the ONLY Democrat runnier that voted YES to start the warmongering saber rattling with IRAN. Then the Intel report comes out and proved that IRAN has stopped its nuclear program a long time ago. Boy the Whitehouse and VADER was pi$$ed off lol. And Hillary and any one that voted yes were made to be incompetent IDIOTS.

I don’t understand why People support Clinton. She has only severed in public office as a senator for 6 years.
The 6 years of her only experience was used to serve Bush warmongering diplomacy around the world.

DO you forget Obama served a life time in his state as a public servant in his senate.

DO you forget even BILL had no federal experience when he ran for office. All he had was public servant in his state.

PLEASE SOME ONE TELL ME SOME HARD FACTS WHAT SHE HAVE ACCOMPLISHED SO FAR??????????

As first lady all she did was FAIL to pass a communist health care reform.

WHAT IS HER experience ?? do you get people experience or intelligence by sleeping with them?? If so I will pay to sleep with females that have IQ level close to genius level. So I can build a space ship and start a new earth lol

I try to find something in the internet search engines but all i find on hillary is a life time of crime and coruption.

BIDEN or OBAMA 2009
The ones with the REAL experience and the judgement to fix america

Independent in CA   December 21st, 2007 9:01 am ET

Seems America's allies are concerned about Senator Obama's EXPERIENCE or lack thereof too!!!

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article3080794.ece

'Stay-at-home' Barack Obama comes under fire for a lack of foreign experience:

"Mr Obama had failed to convene a single policy meeting of the Senate European subcommittee, of which he is chairman. There was also strikingly robust criticism from an independent Washington think-tank about a "disconcerting void" over transatlantic relations in Mr Obama's foreign policy, as well as from a former British Minister for Europe."

"A spokesman said that Mr Obama had held European subcommittee hearings on the nomination of two US ambassadors in the past year when he had been busy with his presidential campaign."

"But Steve Clemons, the director of foreign policy at the New American Foundation in Washington, said that such hearings were not the same as convening full meetings on pressing policy issues such as the future of Nato. "Someone who is seeking the presidency should have some facility for the most important anchor in global affairs, which is the transatlantic relationship," he said. "The major threats in the 21st century are changing but what is not changing is the vital necessity of Europe and the US collaborating in meeting those challenges with Europe, for instance, in the lead on dealing with Iran. This is a very disconcerting void in Obama's profile."

"Denis MacShane, a Minister for Europe in Mr Blair's Government, said he had been troubled by comments Mr Obama had made on the Middle East peace process and the prospect of military action in Pakistan. He added: "A lot of people are concerned that international policy is not his strongest suit, just as it was not with George Bush in 2000."

NOW WHO ARE WE TO BELIEVE?? The spin doctors er I mean Senator Obama's fans OR foreign policy directors and advisors? But not to worry, that's where all those former President Clinton's staff comes in ;) Sure it's called "On-the-Job Training"

CintiKid,Cinti,Ohio   December 21st, 2007 8:47 am ET

Shillarys experience? 8 years as first lady. wow I feel soooo safe.

Seam, Philly PA   December 21st, 2007 8:44 am ET

Hillary, since when do you have all the foreign policy experience? I am sick and tired of this lady. Foreign leaders will walk all over Hillary because most of them do not like women leaders. This will only cause more threats for America.

John Karsten, Virginia Beach, VA   December 21st, 2007 8:28 am ET

This is old news to me. I know for a fact that HRC has no more "experience" than Obama does. HRC to me is the same old washington, while Obama is young, fresh, and wants to end the endless money pit called Iraq. 70 Billion dollars people, 70 BILLION. That was just the lastest blank check for duyba.
Oh, and so what if Obama has a Musliam name, he is not a terrisost or zeolt.
I also feel if HRC get the nom, then we will surely fail as Dems.

OBAMA 2008!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Michael Alexander, Annapolis, MD   December 21st, 2007 7:57 am ET

I acknowledge Senator Clinton's concern regarding Senator Obama's lack of foreign policy experience, however, History has shown that this country has found itself it more ugly international situations, thanks to all that "experience" possessed by our leaders. Perhaps a fresh and objective look at foreign policy is what this nation could use for the next four years. Give Senator Obama a chance. Hilary has had hers; i think we can do better.

you boy teddy in orlando   December 21st, 2007 7:56 am ET

Poor Hillary

Doesnt the president of the USA have a bunch of advisors as long as he is willing to seek their advice and as long as his PERSONAL JUDGEMENT is good do you really think you could handle americas foriegn policy with any amount of effectiveness. HMMM did not think so HRC please when Obama wins by a landslide in the 1st 3 states get out gracefully

sorry HRC but america Needs Obama right now. to get washington back to common sense and honesty

OBAMA 08 anyone else would be the same old thing

AJ; Montpelier, VT   December 21st, 2007 7:41 am ET

"Sen. Obama, the only major candidate who opposed both the Iraq war and the rush to war in Iran, will continue to demonstrate why he has the judgment to turn the page on the Bush-Cheney foreign policy,” Burton said.

More lies from the Obama camp. Obama was not in a position to vote going to war in Iraq and didnt even bother to show up for the vote on the Iran situation. I'm sure it was easy for Obama to pontificate from his office in the Ill. Statehouse, but when playing on the national stage, he manages to avoid those votes which may be controversial. Obama is an empty suit with nothing backing up but hubris. Sounds a lot like G.W. Bush…

Garrett Adams Davenport IA   December 21st, 2007 7:20 am ET

This man has no real experience. Yet he's hoping to rule the most powerful nation on the planet.

What is it that Barack Obama has to get where he is? Nothing but flimflam.

Oprah Winfrey has fallen for his looks and charm. It's so evident that Oprah is taken in so easily by good looking men — white and otherwise. Her show has highlighted these handsome creatures over months. Every time she swoons over them, flirting with them, sometimes even making quite suggestive remarks. Her audiences love it.

Now she's turned her romantic overtures into stadium sideshows starring none other than a first-class political fake. The crowds are so taken with the entertainment that they relate all that to political genius.

Obama has no experience worth typing on a resume to sit in the Oval Office let alone rule anything for anyone from that space.

He's glib. He's smooth. He's excellent with crafting phrases. But when listening to his mini-speeches, does he not sound like a high school student running for the student council? or senior class president?

His sentences, his phrasing, is so sophomoric that I sit listening to him wondering how his listeners are so awe-struck. All ages are simply enamored by him.

He struts like a Hollywood star. His slim build enhances his striking image. His smile spread across America. His cute-boy looks somehow have tricked both genders into believing that he deserves their votes.

There is no substance to this man. He gives forth the typical liberal litany — including support for killing womb babies and sodomy. The nation takes it in stride.

What in the name of common sense let alone intelligence has happened to the populace that they are so sucked in by this horrific joke?

Even the media quotes him as if he were providing genuine wisdom for our times. He is not speaking anything worth noting let alone translating into legislation. His sentences are laden with sweet sounding worn cliches — over and over.

We need to unite. We need to be liked around the world. We need to renew. We need to look to the future for this great nation. We need to forget our differences and hold hands. We need to envision tomorrows shining with God's sunshine.

These speeches go on forever and ever and ever. America listens and scores fall for this tripe as if it were material for the US presidency.

It's not. It's failure personified.

Jack UCBerkeley   December 21st, 2007 6:59 am ET

Posted By Jesse from Burnsville, MN : December 20, 2007 10:17 pm
"Regarding the Iran resolution, either you are truly ignorant or you know the facts and you choose to lie. It is a proven fact that Harry Reid informed him that the Iran vote was suspended indefinitely. After being assured of this, Obama then left to campaign. *Harry Reid then calls the vote, knowing that Obama has no chance of making it back to vote. Oh, and it just may be a coincidence, but Harry Reid's son, Rory, is the head of Clinton's campaign in Nevada. Hmmmm, interesting."

************
Oh poor baby, is Obama going to run home tattling again?! Why is it that Obama supporters ALWAYS feel the need to "make excuses" for their candidate all the time :( Senator Obama's spokesman Burton has already said that Obama wasn't given enough time to get back for the vote!! So appears he WAS told, but alas not soon enough –> yet, every single other Senator (except McCain) were all able to make it back to Washington, including Senator Johnson – who had life and death brain surgery just 9 months earlier, and was sitting in a wheel chair!! *YEP MUST HAVE BEEN A CONSPIRACY ;) Gosh, I thought that's what all the other candidates claim, not Golden Boy? Well maybe there were no planes left to charter that day?

And as to what Dave from TX had to say those were his very own words :) and I was merely reposting them for all those who may have missed those pearls of wisdom — Hmmmm maybe he's the disgrace to Democrats everywhere? Or maybe he's just a sincere believer in his candidate??

But on the other hand, I'm beginning to suspect you're one of those Monday Morning Quarterback – Neanderthal types whose knuckes are bruised from dragging them on the ground all the time – Ouchy would you like some neosporin & a Big Bird bandaid = no wonder you're having a bad hair day!! And gosh, I'm awfully sorry I offended your delicate sensibilities.

BUT fact still is, the GOP = JAWS THE SEQUEL would make mincemeat out of Junior Senator Obama without even blinking if he doesn't learn to grow up!! Do y'all think they are going to play nice??? (Ask Harold Ford, Jr. from TN '06 or better yet McCain in SC 2000 –> Rove even devoured one of their own – an honest to goodness Vietnam POW!!)

I HAVE MORE OF AN ISSUE WITH OBAMA'S "PRESENT VOTES" WHILE HE WAS AN IL STATE SENATOR:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/20/us/politics/20obama.html

"Mr. Obama was also the sole PRESENT VOTE on a bill that easily passed the Senate that would require teaching respect for others in schools. He also VOTED PRESENT on a measure to prohibit sex-related shops from opening near schools or places of worship. It passed the Senate. In both of those cases, his campaign said, he was trying to avoid mandates on local authorities."

As the new spokesperson for Senator Obama let us defer to Jesse from Burnsville, MN to give us all a rational explanation for those votes?? And while he's at it what about the THREE lobyists on Senator Obama's payroll? Kinda hypocritical in my book, but then again what do I know – I'm still reading the manual…

http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/lobbyists-on-obamas-08-payroll-2007-12-20.html

*************
Oh BTW Jesse, maybe I'm one of those "Independents" whose vote your candidate is courting and needs to win? Starts with 'I', not with 'D' for Demwit ;) –Romney is looking better all the time except the twit strapped his dog's kennel to the roof of his car and took the family on vacation, don't think I could vote for that; nor nonEvolution Huck; Guiliani's a crock; and McCain is a warhawk…. Oh woe is me, what a dilema = Maybe it's better to dance with the devil y'all know than take a chance on going home with the one that you don't??!! At any rate this is certainly more entertaining than American Idol and Brit Watch and reruns on TV – Okay is the great Bessie Smith going to sing now :) Or can we expect more sequels in the near future? Peace bro

Reggie, Germany   December 21st, 2007 6:34 am ET

I've always tried to figure out why Hillary thinks she has alll this experience.

Well now I know!!! It's because she's delusional!!

Hillary secretly believes she was president already!!! Don't believe me? Check her interview with Candy Crowly ,

http://ianschwartz.com/2007/11/07/video-hillary-when-im-president-again/

Or go to:

http://www.campaignnetwork.org/default.aspx

and select the vedio from her speech at Council Bluff Iowa with Bob Kerry and listen to her again make the statement. It occurs while she is talking about health care. These are just two instances, there are more.

Did I miss something?? When was she elected the first time?? These statement really concern me. Once maybe you say ohh O.K., but repeatedly?? Sounds almost Nixonian

Why are CNN and the other MSM not talking about this?? HEY CANDY WHY AREN'T YOU????

mark wilkes barre pa   December 21st, 2007 5:48 am ET

trips overseas with your president husband and vacations to exotic places does not qualify as experience

Rich, Mckinney, Texas   December 21st, 2007 4:55 am ET

Being first lady is not either….
Romney, or Rudy will kill her.

Nick Ann Arbor, MI   December 21st, 2007 4:51 am ET

Again.. Hillary supporters cannot say anything positive about their candidate. They cannot defend the fact that Mrs. Clinton shoved us headstrong into the worst foreign policy disaster of our age, and since then has refused to apologize. Mrs. Clinton, people do not tout the worst foreign policy disaster of our age as viable experience. Henry Kissinger is experienced; in many countries he is also considered a war criminal. Would you vote for him for president?

Another commenter is correct – many democrats in the senate also authorized war. And many of us Obama supporters aren't voting for them either. This includes Senator Edwards, although I do at least respect him for coming out and apologizing for his mistake.

The fact of the matter is that the ONLY Democratic candidate comparable to George W. Bush is Hillary Clinton, an authorizer of the Iraq war and instigator of a future Iranian war who will not take any responsibility whatsoever for the fallout of our failed efforts.

Clinton has experience alright — she is an experienced failure. When it comes to healthcare (re: the 90s), war, bipartisanship, and a host of other issues she has failed time and again. Her supporters cannot point to any positive contributions she has made to america, but only point the finger at Obama and try to tear down an already impressive record of experience AND judgement. Obama has been in elected office far longer than Hillary, and has a number of bipartisan victories to back it up. His judgement has also proven right time and again when it counts.

A leader who makes horrible judgement calls on foreign policy and divides the country to the point of political gridlock — remind you of somebody? The only person comparable to George W. Bush is Hillary. The only candidate with positive qualities is Obama.

The choice is yours.

Heather, Nashville, TN   December 21st, 2007 3:38 am ET

What you lack in experience you make up for in judgment, hmm aren't you the one who said you would sit down with any political leader with no rules or format for the meeting? IS that the same judgment that will be used if you were elected to office? In the middle of two wars do we really need someone in the White House who is still learning by trial and error or do we need a powerful woman who has the knowledge, expereince and compassion to understand the needs of this country and to fulfill them? I know who I'm going to vote for in 08 and it won't be for the lawyer who stated that this country needs less lawyers yet won't honor his own words by giving up his license.

Dom   December 21st, 2007 3:09 am ET

Question to the Hilary campaign :

Kindly outline the foreign experience that Hilary seems to be implying she has. As far as we are aware she was not the USA's Secretary of State at any time. Unless taking foreign holidays qualifies…..

HillaryIsAJoke   December 21st, 2007 2:54 am ET

Hillary is a master of talking a lot about nothing. It really is an incredible skill to talk like:

"America wants change and they don't attack me because I'm a woman they attack me because I'm a winner and hey vote for me and I'll give all of your babies $5000 straight from your taxes!"

Come on people. Don't fall for this rubbish.

Time for All the Village Idiots to Finally Get a Job   December 21st, 2007 12:38 am ET

previous post excerpt: Obama has some of the best foreign policy advisors in the world. Some of them were key advisors to Bill Clinton. So – why are they supporting Barack Obama instead of Hillary Clinton?

QUESTION FOR FORMER PRESIDENT CLINTON: "Hey Bill, why do many of your former foreign policy advisors back Obama over your wife?"

ANSWER: "Probably because they've been out of a job for so long that they've
run out of unemployment – and Hillary wants fresh faces on her staff."

:) Absolutely love this observation from an Edward's supporter: "Hillary is just brilliant. It would be worth electing her just to see the right wingers heads spin around and around on their shoulders simultaneously"…

Ever notice how most of the OTHER candidates "legitmate fans" either tell why they support their choice or at least defend them (which is only fair) = WHILE on the other hand the ClubMed AntiHillary Groupies merely rant & rave on and on & on…. foaming & frothing at the mouth like a pathetic pack of rabid dogs, spouting & spewing the same old tired & trite – bigoted & biased drivel (ie She singlehandedly led us into Iraq, she couldn't even handle her own hubby, she's a liar, the only foreign experience she has is taking photos on ALL those overseas trips, and serving tea & crumpets while First Lady; and in general would have us believe how divisive she is!! ROFLOL methinks they are the ones who are daft & delusional and are in need of serious professional help ASAP!! It's so transparent how the very mention of Hillary causes the nasty little roaches to come scurying out of the woodwook in tag-team attack mode!! YAWN BOR-ING = Time for the AntiHillary Frozen-In-Space Mindset to slither back under the rock y'all crawled out from under.

It's rather like they feel slighted or spurned like jealous cows or jilted boyfriends?! Almost like Jackie Kennedy when the public respected her for "standing by her husband when he so publicly humiliated her while in the White House"… But yet when she finally dared to "stand on her own and wed Ari Onassis" the public outrage was deafening!! Guess the world hasn't really changed all that much in the last almost 50 years :( Women are still judged by double standards and ignorant public criticism…

Wouldn't it also be a kick to elect Hillary just so we could watch all those Hillaryhaters' heads explode ;)

MAH, Piscataway, NJ   December 21st, 2007 12:36 am ET

I think Hillary has experience on being able to shutting the White House light switches on and off… However she lacks honesty, and should not be voted…

Dale Davis, Glendora, California   December 21st, 2007 12:03 am ET

No Hillary. Go light on the makeup.

Ken, San Diego, CA   December 20th, 2007 11:57 pm ET

She's right.

Vincent, Tamaqua   December 20th, 2007 11:44 pm ET

SHE IS EXACTLY RIGHT.

Can you just picture Obama running against McCain?! … really any republican.. There is no contest in national security and military affairs.

Hillary on the other hand, serving on the arms service committee, has the experience we need, as democrats, in a general election!

Jim, Chicago   December 20th, 2007 11:34 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton sided with George W. Bush on votes regarding Iraq and Iran. Do you want the next president to be one who thinks likes Bush?

Jim, Irmo, SC   December 20th, 2007 11:23 pm ET

Her experience as first lady seems to be what she is falling back on. What did she accomplish with these trips? Nothing, but that is not her fault. She might have been there in an "official" capacity, but she wasn't asked to do anything. So, her experience in that respect does not seem relevant. While, on the other hand, Obama is on the Senate Foreign Relations committee.

RPL, StL, MO   December 20th, 2007 11:12 pm ET

Didn't people attack Bill Clinton for his lack of political experience back in 1991? (And wasn't he governor of the State of Arkansas at age 32?) Pots, blacks, kettles, truth, expedient positions, whatever.

Liberal Chic   December 20th, 2007 10:54 pm ET

America what eats at her the Most about Obama . Is that he can go to the Middle East and get results, But it all comes down to this , She knows he is a better person and much smarter than her, Plus he is a person that people relate to, and they like Him better than her. After this election is over And Barak goes to his place in History. She will Just Be a former First Lady, who was in the Senate married to a unfaithful husband. That was beaten buy A Noble Man, that was loved buy many and feared by the likes of her and her world she represents.

Posted By Nando, Florida

ha, ha, ha, ha, ha. oh, my god. i have to wipe the tears off my face and catch my breath. there. i'm done.

ha, ha, ha, ha, ha. oops. can't keep it in.

oh, my god. obama is smarter than clinton. that is too funny.

it sounds like Nando has a crush on Obama. too bad obama is married or he could ask him out on a date.

Ajay Jain   December 20th, 2007 10:45 pm ET

Bush has the greatness to not only dream up a State of the Union address like AXIS-OF-EVIL speech but he dared deliver it because it suited his neo-con ideas of winning in IRAQ and rebuilding IRAQ with "IRAQ Oil money".

Where was Dr Rice then? Where is Dr Rice now. Salvaging what is left of the Middle East. Trying to BUILD any semblence of BUSH foreign policy legacy!!!

We are sitting on a powder keg of dynamite called BUSH who has the audacity to utter phrases like "World War III…,", a sitting President of the USA!!!!

Putin has to make the TIME cover for 2007!!! Time editor's are smart. Because a lot depends on Putin now!!!!

Has BUSH not done enough already!! Is he going to give us a WWIII but for the CIA NIE report. Cheney "can not OUT" all the agents of the 16 Intelligence communities that go into making the NIE report!!!!

May GOD save our nation and the world till January 2009.

We NEED the CLINTONS in the White House to put our country and the world back in order.

Go Hillary go 08!

Gil - California   December 20th, 2007 10:23 pm ET

Lady, unless you consider New York your foreign experience, you have ZERO. You are a senator from New York PERIOD. You want to count your little trips overseas as experience, you are sadly mistaken. You can say Obama doesn't have the experience we need in the White House, but lady I will tell you flat out that you don't and never will.

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   December 20th, 2007 10:17 pm ET

Jack from Berkeley, your ignorance is a disgrace to Democrats everywhere!

Hillary is the only one that hasn't learned from her mistaken vote on Iraq. She once again gave Bush the opening he needed, this time on Iran.

Regarding the Iran resolution, either you are truly ignorant or you know the facts and you choose to lie. It is a proven fact that Harry Reid informed him that the Iran vote was suspended indefinitely. After being assured of this, Obama then left to campaign. Harry Reid then calls the vote, knowing that Obama has no chance of making it back to vote. Oh, and it just may be a coincidence, but Harry Reid's son, Rory, is the head of Clinton's campaign in Nevada. Hmmmm, interesting.

Jack Berkeley, CA   December 20th, 2007 9:51 pm ET

Obama spokesman Bill Burton sounded the campaign's familiar mantra in response — that what Obama lacks in foreign policy experience he makes up in judgment.

"While Senator Clinton takes a break from her 'likeability tour' to go back on the attack, Sen. Obama, ~the only major candidate who opposed both the Iraq war and the rush to war in Iran~, will continue to demonstrate why he has the judgment to turn the page on the Bush-Cheney foreign policy," Burton said.

Awwww, doesn't that statement have a nice ring to it?? LOL Too bad it isn't actually true!! If by "judgement" he means that it's sooo easy to criticize everyone else on the Iraq vote when he himself wasn't even in the US Senate at that time 10/11/02 (Monday Morning Quarterback rah rah & all that big manly stuff which has nice sound bytes ;)

http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=107&session=2&vote=00237

AND guess what you ninnies, SENATORS BIDEN, DODD, AND EDWARDS ALL VOTED YEA ON THE IRAQ WAR ALONG with the D-Senate Majority Leader — but go ahead blame it all on Hillary = not like it's not the same old same old "double standards" or "selective Neanderthal reasoning". Ahead of the vote, Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle announced Thursday morning he would support Bush on Iraq, saying it is important for the country "to speak with one voice at this critical moment."

And by continuing to demonstrate sound judgement, I suppose that's why he choose to stay on the campaign trail rather than return to Washington to vote on the Iran resolution?? The only one of two Senators who were NO-SHOWS!!

Not Voting – 2
McCain (R-AZ)
Obama (D-IL)
http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=110&session=1&vote=00349

Here's one of Obama's supporters take on the matter (would be hilarious if it wasn't so scary & we wonder why we got ANOTHER 4yrs of Bush?!) = David from Dallas, TX replied: "Obama attending and voting 'no' wouldn't have changed anything: the resolution would have passed and he would have signaled to us that he didn't support the resolution.

Let's get real–the man's running for president. Do you think he and America
would be better served by WASTING TIME IN THE SENATE when his vote won't change anything, OR ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL EDUCATING US ABOUT WHAT HE DOES AND DOESN'T STAND FOR, SO WE CAN MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION WHETHER OR NOT TO VOTE FOR HIM?

IMHO, senator candidates have an obligation to stay on the campaign trail unless their vote might make a difference or their vote tells us something about them."

I sure would love to know what good judgement Obama used to Abstain from voting in the IL State Senate too?! :(

Willy, Chesapeake, VA   December 20th, 2007 9:34 pm ET

Mrs. Bill Clinton wants you to refer to her as Hillary so you can warm up to her and hide the fact she’s a Senator from New York that has no proven record. Senator Clinton is the candidate not Hillary from the Bill Clinton era. Remember that!

xtina - chicago IL   December 20th, 2007 9:28 pm ET

She says a lot of superfluous stuff. I would like to hear specifically what Hillary has done that's successful in the way of foreign policy . If any of her supporters can write it in here, please do so. Please be as specific as possible.

Les WA   December 20th, 2007 9:27 pm ET

The difference between Hillary and other posters here who have travelled overseas; Hillary in her trip overseas MEET with FOREIGN LEADERS and discuss POLICIES, while YOU who travel overseas take pictures as a TOURIST.

Ask Secretary of State Madeline Albright when it comes to foreign policies Hillary Clinton had to deal with when she was travelling overseas as an ENVOY from the Whitehouse. 32 former US Ambassadors endorsed Hillary Clinton for democratic nomination and President.

I gave more CREDIBILITY to Ambassadors that ENDORSED HER than to any posters here who's experience travelling overseas either a tourist, student or working for a corporation. That don't say much about your trip overseas, isn't it?

Nando, Florida   December 20th, 2007 9:26 pm ET

America what eats at her the Most about Obama . Is that he can go to the Middle East and get results, But it all comes down to this , She knows he is a better person and much smarter than her, Plus he is a person that people relate to, and they like Him better than her. After this election is over And Barak goes to his place in History. She will Just Be a former First Lady, who was in the Senate married to a unfaithful husband. That was beaten buy A Noble Man, that was loved buy many and feared by the likes of her and her world she represents. EVIL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jim in Orlando, FL   December 20th, 2007 9:06 pm ET

Why aren't Nancy Reagan and Laura Bush on the ballot ? They sure traveled a lot overseas ! Or is it not enough cookie baking experience … something stinks in Denmark …. LOL !!!

Dean, New York   December 20th, 2007 9:03 pm ET

I don't understand why so many think Clinton has "extensive" experience. I can't think of any. She was a First Lady for many years, and after that she ran for senate. I think she served 1 term, and is in the 1st year of a second or so. Like, 5 years of Senate experience? I dont think you get foreign policy experience by being a first lady. No more so than Laura Bush did.

Doesn't make sense. She's the least qualified person I know.

Mario Uy Streamwood IL   December 20th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

I believe Hillary can deal effectively with Iran, the Middle East, and Korea. She put up with a cheating husband, didn't she? Hmm…

Tom Dedham, Mass   December 20th, 2007 8:57 pm ET

What foreign policy experience does she have?

Having tea and cookies (NOT COOKED BY HER OF COURSE) with other first ladies counts as experience nowadays?

I wish Biden would come out and simply state, excuse me Ms Clinton, I forgot more about foreign policy than you will ever know.

Noticed that the major networks again will not report that this week the folks in charge of the Clinton papers (per the NY Sun) clearly STATED that Bill is the sole person and reason why the release of the Clinton papers will NOT move forward.

He signed a letter THIS YEAR.

The Clintons have said that it is NOT up to them and they basically called him a "liar", what else is new.

These papers could shed some light on the Bill/Hillary White house, but you always have to worry that Sandy Bergler was in charge of them.

J. McKinney SW MO   December 20th, 2007 8:52 pm ET

What is this "sound judgement" some are talking about that Obama has? He didn't vote against going to war with Iraq, as he wasn't a US senator yet then. and he didn't vote on the following that everyone is accusing Clinton of, as he didn't show up for that vote. I think most of Obama's "sound judgement" is in the minds of his addled supporters.
We need Hillary, who really does have "sound judgement".

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   December 20th, 2007 8:52 pm ET

Here is why Clinton supporters like her:

-She is ready to lead from day one (no explanation as to how but it sure is a good line, isn't it!)

-Obama is a talker, but Hillary is a doer (if by doing, they mean voting for the war, then I guess their right)

-She has 35 years of experience (what that experience is, they are not at liberty to share with the rest of, but just believe them, they obviously know what they're talking about)

-She is a change agent (yet she couldn't get a health care plan passed with a Democratic President and Democratic Congress)

-There are no surprises (it's the same divisive Hillary you've always known)

-You get change through "hard work" (Gee, that kind of reminds one of a certain Republican candidate from the 2004 election)

-Barack's health care plan leaves out 15 million people (don't worry that there is no proof to back that number up, and don't you dare ask Hillary how she plans on mandating health insurance in her plan)

-Hillary will lift up the middle class (by middle class, she obviously means anybody making $100k a year like firefighters)

How are some of my fellow Democrats so clueless? And, as a Democrat, do I hate Hillary? Well, yes I do. She represents everything that is wrong with the Democratic Party.

Gary, Orlando Florida   December 20th, 2007 8:39 pm ET

If I recall correctly, Senator Clinton said at the beginning of her campaign that her first priority would be to end the War in Iraq. President Richard Nixon would have called her a "peace at all cost Democrat" that is not foreign policy. Nixon may not have known much about domestic matters, but he and Kissinger knew foreign policy.

MK, Los Angeles, California   December 20th, 2007 8:37 pm ET

What "foreign policy" experience does Senator Clinton have? I know she took photo op tours of the world while First Lady, but she was not present during the Mid East Peace Conference in 2000 (that was her husband Bill Clinton), she was not present during the Dayton Accords bringing peace to Bosnia (again that was her husband Bill Clinton), she did not authorize the bmobing of Sudan and Afganistan or Iraq (again that was her husband Bill Clinton). She did not conduct negotiations over North Korea's nuclear program (again that was her husband Bill Clinton and his sec. of state Albright). What pray tell then is HER FOREIGN POLICY EXPEREICENCE?! Unless she can answer that question by pointing to specific foreign policy initiatives taken by Bill Clinton's administration, I would hope that CNN begin to question her assertions of experience rather than accepting them as true.

Terry, El Paso, TX   December 20th, 2007 8:32 pm ET

Our most capable presidents in terms of foreign policy were surely Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman. Neither had any foreign policy experience to speak of. Roosevelt managed to unite most of the world in the war against Fascism. After Roosevelt died and Truman became president, it was only a couple of months until he dealt with Stalin and Churchill at Potsdam where he personally negotiated the end of the war in Europe AND during his spare time there he made the decision to bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki, thus ending the war in the Pacific.

Our very best president, Lincoln, had only served one term in the House and a few terms in the Illinois Legislature before becoming president, comparable to Obama more or less. While lack of experience surely hampered him, we cannot think of any man who could have done better in that situation.

Experience is valuable, but it is only one arrow in the president's quiver. What Lincoln, Roosevelt, and Truman had was a determination to solve the nation's problems. While our current crop of candidates have a lot of proposals, none of them has taken any hard stands or positions that most of us disapprove of – except McCain.

McCain has enormous character. It is too bad he is a Conservative, which makes him ineligible for leadership.

John Adkisson, Sacramento, California   December 20th, 2007 8:31 pm ET

Clinton says we don't need a President who is bad in foreign affairs.

But who voted for Iraq? Clinton. Who rattles the saber on Iran? Clinton.

We also don't need another President who will react irrationally in the event of another international emergency.

From her voting record and refusal to admit her catostrophic errors on Iraq — Clinton has demonstrated she cannot think in terms of "foreign affairs" without exclusively concentrating on "military matters." Even this new statement conflates the two.

Whether due to personal conviction or political convenience — Clinton is a "hawk" when we need a President who transcends the hawk/dove paradigm. She has zero experience demonstrating the kind of judgment necessary to guide us toward peace and renewed respect in the world.

The constant attacks on Obama have also reflected a core emptiness in her foreign affairs message. Where is the comprehensive "Clinton plan" for changing course– there is none. There is only a constant harping on her so-called "experience" as First Lady. She certainly cannot point to her disastrous record as a pro-Iraq Senator.

World Peace should be the foreign affairs goal for any American President. Not just in the Middle East but everywhere. Clinton is frightened to even aspire to World Peace for fear of appearing weak. This is the approach of Republicans not Democrats.

Al, Dallas   December 20th, 2007 8:30 pm ET

LOL…You have to be kidding me! Hillary your's was one of the votes that put our troops in Iraq. You've got experience alright, experience in bad judgement and being clueless to what's going on around you. Time after time, after time, after time…

Micahel Guinn, Ventura, CA   December 20th, 2007 8:26 pm ET

Two weeks from today IOWANS will say "Sound Judgment" takes presedence. HRC's "Foriegn Policy Experience", whatever that is, will come in second. FOURTEEN DAYS AND COUNTING!
OBAMA 08!

Robyn, San Diego   December 20th, 2007 8:19 pm ET

Could someone explain why voters use a double standard when judging Clinton? Let's get real. All of the candidates have or will attack other candidates in any presidential race. Obama has been one of the biggest offenders. Yet why do people tolerate (if not enjoy) his attacks against Clinton when they lamblast Hillary for "attacking" him or Edwards. Why do people jump down her throat any time she even hints at one of their weaknesses? And why are Hillary's "unlikable" traits (e.g., seriousness and toughness)considered admirable in the male candidates?? If you don't like Hillary on her merits, so be it, but be fair and use the same standards to evaluate ALL the candidates.

stan pitts pa   December 20th, 2007 8:11 pm ET

CNN = CLINTON NEWS NETWORK! i say that because yesterday on the cafferty file, he had a question out to viewers asking people to write in and comment on hillary and how she could win the nominnation! how is that fair? free advise from the public on how hillary should play her cards to win? talk about bias, just to be fair how about you have folks call in or write in, giving hints on how their favourite candidate ought to win? CNN please stop shoving clinton down our necks just the report the news fair and unbiased!

Anonymous   December 20th, 2007 8:10 pm ET

Could someone please explain why voters use a different standard to judge Hillary? Everyone running for president has attacked other candidates for president. One of the biggest offenders has been Obama…But why are Obama's attacks of Hillary tolerated (if not encouraged) when Hillary's "attacks" of Obama cause such an uproar? Why are the traits that make Hillary "unlikeable" (toughness, seriousness, professionalism) considered admirable in the male candidates? If you oppose Hillary on her merits, fair enough. But be fair about it and use the same standards when evaluating ALL candidates.

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   December 20th, 2007 8:08 pm ET

So, is Clinton saying that we should trust the experience she has taking us into the Iraq War in the first place.

No thanks! Experience means nothing if one does not have judgement.

The problem with George Bush was NOT his lack of experience. It is that he refuses to surround himself with people other than "yes men" and is unwilling to take advice from others. I can already see some of that in Hillary.

Obama/Edwards '08

Brad, Stockton, CA   December 20th, 2007 7:52 pm ET

If Hillary's experience is what we are looking at, I believe we need LESS expreience rather than more, because Washington "experience" is what got us in as much trouble as we are in today.

The candidate needs to be fully up to speed on foreign affairs and military matters, but the candidate also needs to be in touch with the needs and exectations of Americans rather than telling Americans what our expectations, in her flawed reality, should be.

Howard, NY   December 20th, 2007 7:47 pm ET

That's right Hillary, your years on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee have served you well. What's that? You're the only Democratic Senator candidate who's not a member? Funny you should also mention "dealing with North Korea" when your husband sent Bill Richardson to do just that when he was president.

Hillary has a weird tendency to try to stress issues that she's also vulnerable on. John Edwards is probably the only major Democratic candidate who is weaker than she is on foreign policy, but even he has the ability to admit to his mistakes with Iraq.

Pier Giacalone, NYC, NY   December 20th, 2007 7:43 pm ET

"only major candidate"…ha! Take that Kucinich! Who's Obama going to attack next? Mike Gravel?

He had so much "judgment" on Iran that he didn't show up for the vote at all. It's easy to have "judgment" when you're uncommitted on record.

Janet Berend, Seattle, WA.   December 20th, 2007 7:31 pm ET

If all of the candidates believe that Obama has the experience to lead this country at such a crucial time, why does Hillary say that it is crical that we have someone who is experienced in foreign policy? Does she see Joe Biden as the most qualified to become our next president? He is, you know, and out in front by miles. He isn't in the media's chosen top tier, butI hope he gives them all a surprise when it comes to push or shove. I have never heard any of the candidates say the Obama has the experience to lead this county. That is a pretty strong staement, so where is your proof?

Emily, Alberta   December 20th, 2007 7:29 pm ET

If Obama thinks change is so necessary, why is he using past-Clinton advisors to help him with foreign relations?

Bob, Alexandria, VA   December 20th, 2007 7:26 pm ET

GET OUT OF HERE HILLARY! DO YOU PRESUME IF YOU SAY IT OFTEN ENOUGH, THE PUBLIC INCLUDING YOURSELF WILL BELIEVE THIS LIE TO BE TRUE? LET'S FACT IT HILLARY, NONE OF THE TOP 3 DEMOCRAT CANDIDATES HAVE FOREIGN POLICY EXPERIENCE…THAT'S NONE, INCLUDING YOURSELF. WHAT A LIAR!!!!!!! ANY COMPANY WOULD FIRE AN EMPLOYEE WHO FALISIFIED THEIR RESUME…WHAT MAKES YOU ANY DIFFERENT?

Corey, Manchester, NH   December 20th, 2007 7:20 pm ET

Please! Vote for whoever – just vote. I am so sick and tired of people fighting about the candidates. This country needs some strong leadership. Stop the fighting and vote for who you want. Somebody will win.
Of course, let's just hope the American people get to decide and not the judicial system.

Adam, Sacramento   December 20th, 2007 7:16 pm ET

Someone mind reminding me of what Hillary's Foreign policy experiences are.

I'm stumped after voted for Iraq Resolution and Voted to declare a national military Unit a terrorist organization. Neither I would consider sterling endorsements of judgement.

Otherwise her experience seems about the same as any first ladies which I don't consider significant. Did she lead some trade mission or negotiation I missed?

Len, Fallbrook, CA   December 20th, 2007 7:10 pm ET

""It is tempting any time things seem quieter for a minute on the international front to think that we don't need a president who is up to speed on foreign affairs and military matters,""

I agree, who does she have in mind?

Walt, Belton, TX   December 20th, 2007 7:06 pm ET

How about going light on all her "experience!" Defending your husband after numerous episodes of dallying with complete denial is not my idea of foreign policy experience, even if it occurs during one of the many presidential "official" visits overseas………….

John Halverson DC   December 20th, 2007 7:06 pm ET

again. WHAT EXPERIENCE? I have lived in europe and traveled all over the world, I guess that means I to have foreign experience. Hillary is a bafoon!

ClintonNewsNetwork   December 20th, 2007 7:05 pm ET

Hey CNN, you were bashing Ron Paul about the $500 donation (1 donation out of 100,000) received from a white supremacist. How about mentioning the $20,000 donation that Hillary received from a known cocaine smuggler? See here, there's even a photo of them together:

http://tinyurl.com/2aom7c

Wow, talk about hypocrasy!

J Ward, Marysville, Ohio   December 20th, 2007 7:03 pm ET

Hillary has next to no experience in what she claims. And the only experience George W. had was to play Governor of Texas. He supposedly qualified for being experienced. – So I'd say that my 30+ years of politically well-informed, active voting, and grassroot involved, taxpaying, college-grad "garbage collector" has just about as much over-all knowledge and experience as most of these professional politicians.

pam Eugene OR   December 20th, 2007 6:57 pm ET

Shame on you Hillary Your experience voted to get us there and you keep voting for funding it so we can stay there. I can do without your experience very well. Hillary is status quo and more of the same only the pants suit is different!

wyatt medford,oregon   December 20th, 2007 6:55 pm ET

I find it a bit funny that hillary Clinton is saying she is the most experienced,should someone introduce her to Joe Biden who is the most experienced candidate of either party on foreign affairs and domestic issues. Biden has the added bonus of not being polorizing like Clinton.

Tom G , Cooperstown, N.D.   December 20th, 2007 6:53 pm ET

I would like to know what 35 years of experience that Mrs. Clinton has to bring to the White house.As a senator she has done nothing for New York but to try to make it a stepping stone to the White House.

Vince Los Angeles, CA   December 20th, 2007 6:45 pm ET

I don't understand how you people can call yourselves Democrats and support someone like Hillary Clinton when she does things like this…the past few weeks have been MORE than enough to show you all her true colors! ONLY A REPUBLICAN would use scare tactics like this to influence voters!! HRC has some nerve!!! SHE VOTED TO INVADE IRAQ!! What part of that don't you people get???

SIN   December 20th, 2007 6:44 pm ET

I would think Alexander Mooney knows more than us, it turned out NO, unless he is a Obama's supporter to commet that way. "Go back on the attack", this kind of the language is so transparent that CNN, well, I should say, Alexander Mooney, tries to stir another fight between candidates to make up some story or say topic. Everything Hillary say you mislead it into attack, everything Obama say you indicate that he is running a positive campaign.

This election is not only show American what kind of candidates they need to choose, at the same time, American will think and judge each one of the reporter, "media", anchor, or whatever the label you want to give them.

HEART AND SOUL ! TRUE TO THE FACT. PEOPLE ARE NOT STUPID !

Eric the red, Bev Hills. california   December 20th, 2007 6:39 pm ET

She is correct. We can not go light on foriegn policy experience. That is why I am voting for JOE BIDEN. Chairman of the foreign realations commite. Arab leaders will not take Hillary serious. Joe is the man that will get it done.

Michael, Waterbury, CT   December 20th, 2007 6:32 pm ET

You better Go Ahead Girl! Tear down those walls that have been holding you down so long!

Bonnie M, Loveland, CO   December 20th, 2007 6:31 pm ET

Hilary sure does have foriegn experience. She got it traveling the world with Bill and Chelsea at taxpayer expense. It would be interesting to see a documentation of just how many trips they took while he was pres.

David   December 20th, 2007 6:29 pm ET

Obama has some of the best foreign policy advisors in the world. Some of them were key advisors to Bill Clinton. So – why are they supporting Barack Obama instead of Hillary Clinton?

Obama has plenty of experience to be president. Hillary Clinton says so, as does Joe Biden, John Edwards, Bill Richardson, Chris Dodd, and Dennis Kucinich. The all said they would support Barack Obama for president when he gets the nomination. So, obviously they all believe he does have the foreign policy experience needed in their opinion.

Clinton can't win – Obama and Edwards both are projected to beat the potential republican nominees by larger margins than Clinton in head to head matchup polls.

Vote for an electable candidate. Vote for Barack Obama.

Paid for by no one.

Biggdawg   December 20th, 2007 6:27 pm ET

Edwards, Kucinich, Gravel, Huckabee. All candidates with not much foreign policy experience. The comments could speak to any of them. Yet CNN and Obama whine that it's a swipe against Obama.

And by the way, she's right. We do need someone with foreign policy experience. But she can't say that, lest she's "attacking" Obama. What do you think the Republicans will say about him if he gets the nomination?

Meanwhile as reported in passing in the New Hampshire Union Leader today, Obama goes around New Hampshire telling voters he's not running "to fulfill some long-held ambition, or because I think it's owed to me, or that it's my time…" Who was he taking a "swipe" at in that statement? Who was he "attacking"? But of course we won't see a banner from CNN or any other outlet on that personal attack against Hillary as we would were it the other way around.

wanting better news   December 20th, 2007 6:25 pm ET

Thanks CNN for telling us what to think! Obviously we should believe Clinton's remarks are an "attack" and a "swipe" at, as you make clear, Obama. God forbid instead of those words you use "clear stance" or "intelligent reasoning". To imagine that the news CNN reports is unbiased is to imagine that words have no meaning. A simple rephrasing could make Clinton seem smart, or cranky, or reasonable. But obviously CNN wants to continue its Soap Opera coverage of the races, where the dramatic conflict between Obama the rock star and Clinton the matriarch rages. What BS.

Clinton is clearly the best choice, but if you are to believe CNN, she is the meanest (when her campaign has been no more aggressive than any other).

jd, des moines, iowa   December 20th, 2007 6:21 pm ET

But, Obama said he learned his foreign relation experience during his stay with his stepfather in the muslim country of Indonesia at age 6 to 10.

As senator Kerrey said, that muslim experience is invaluable for hussein obama in dealing with muslim countries. LOL

Kevin Topeka, KS   December 20th, 2007 6:21 pm ET

The old chant – "I was the only major candidate to oppose both the Iraq war and rush to war in Iran." Let's see, he was in the state senate when the vote for Iraq was being taken. (Didn't have the opportunity to vote.)
He was on the campaign trail when the vote for Iran was taken. (Had the opportunity to vote but chose not to take a recorded stand on the issue.) Now that's a record that we can all base our voting decision on!!!!

Yolanda, SC   December 20th, 2007 6:13 pm ET

she is right, abolutely right.

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