December 21, 2007
Posted: 11:56 AM ET

A new poll shows the New Hampshire primary race is extremely volatile.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Democrats Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are locked in a dead heat in New Hampshire, according to a new poll released Friday, setting up what’s likely to be an all-out sprint in the final 18 days before the Granite State’s primary.

Clinton and Obama each draw support from 32 percent of the state’s likely Democratic voters in the new USA Today/Gallup poll. John Edwards is a distant third with 18 percent, while Bill Richardson comes in fourth with 8 percent.

Meanwhile, the poll shows a tightening race on the Republican side as well, with Mitt Romney's once double-digit lead narrowing to 7 points over a resurgent John McCain, 34 percent to 27 percent.

Rudy Giuliani — who last week decided to pull advertising from the expensive Boston-area media market that reaches the southern portion of New Hampshire — comes in a distant third at 11 percent, a statistically tie with Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul, who each stand at 9 percent in the survey.

But the poll shows over 40 percent of voters in each party say they may change their minds over the next three weeks, an indication the standings in New Hampshire remain extremely volatile and may be affected by the results in the Iowa caucuses five days earlier.

In further evidence the New Hampshire race is still thoroughly unpredictable less than three weeks out, other polls out of the state this week have shown significantly different margins separating the top candidates in both parties.

In a CNN/Opinion Research Corporation poll released Wednesday, Clinton held a 12- point lead over Obama, and Romney was 12 points ahead of McCain. And in an American Research Group poll out Thursday, Clinton is 14 points ahead of Obama, while Romney and McCain are tied.

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • John McCain • Mitt Romney • New Hampshire


ama udu ama   January 18th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

Hillary is politically more stable than Obama and even the other candidate in the repub. Hillary draws her votes from all groups in the primary while Obama draws his votes mainly from college students who are tired of old politicians.This partern of voting for Obama may not favour him in the general election if he scales through the primaries. If Hillary wins the primary,my fear is that the repubs will still remain in the WHITEHOUSE because USA is not yet ready for a woman president. Please make a wise choice,this is the country that rules the world.

Debra   January 5th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

I'm sick and tired of Obama being the media darling. I question his credibility ever since he did not show up to take that crucial vote on Iran and conveniently stated he was campaigning. The other three democratic presidential candidates took time away from their campaigns and voted!
I now feel that he is even less trustworthy when he questions Edwards' credibility due to 527's. He is one to talk. Obama is receiving help from 527 groups here in california. However, the media's darling was once again not questioned about this.

Equal Opportunity for All Wives (& hubbys) in America   December 24th, 2007 9:11 am ET

Shoot don't know why everyone is getting their knickers in such a knot = Everybody 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!!

:) Go Michelle/Oprah '08

oh sorry that is unless y'all would rather have Bubba or Judith or Mrs. Bloomberg instead? as the late Gilda Radner used to say on SNL "nevermind"

GRACE, SUN CITY CENTER, FL   December 23rd, 2007 2:52 am ET

I D.K. WHO THESE POLLS ARE ASKING BUT
THE INFO THAT I'VE SEEN TELLS ME:
# OF STRAW POLL WINS
RON PAUL 25
THOMPSON 24
ROMNEY 22
GIULIANI 7
McCAIN 5
HUCKABEE 2
HUNTER 2
KEYES 0

WHO ARE THEY INTERVIEWING IN THE POLLS
THAT ARE BEING QUOTED IN THE MEDIA.
THEY DON'T REFLECT THE STRAW POLL
RESULTS…NOT EVEN CLOSE!!!! SMELLS
BAD…WHAT'S UP?

Janel, St. Paul, MN   December 22nd, 2007 4:20 pm ET

The fact of the matter is that whoever wins the presidency (democrat or republican) will not be able by him/herself to accomplish everything he/she has promised.

That said, the person who will represent America to the rest of the world must be articulate, sensitive to other nations,and someone who we as Americans will be proud to be the leader of the Free Nation. The person elected should prove to the rest of the world that we are "free thinkers" in America, we love our freedom and we want a change.

In my opinion, that person is Barack Obama. He speaks clearly, honestly and with conviction. From all I have seen about and heard from him, he is the best hope for the next four/eight years.

I would be proud to have President Obama representing me!

Sean Allen   December 22nd, 2007 1:16 pm ET

It is heartening to watch the two most dishonest candidates lose ground as the primaries progress. Willard the Mittmeister and HRC are matching bookends when it comes to minor issues like the truth. Smart businessman that he is, it's interesting to watch Romney pour millions into a losing effort. Doom to HRClit and Willard.

Michelle O, Houston, Tx   December 22nd, 2007 12:36 pm ET

One of the best chances for a Republican win for the next president is a contest between the republican nominee (any) and Obama.

Do you really think most people will vote for this clown with zero experience and smooth talk?

Many swing voters will vote republican if Obama is the nominee – and that is majority middle america folks, oh and don't bother playing a "race" card – this is about experience

We don't have a lot of time for another President who needs a lot of on the job training.

Hillary (and Bill) in 08

Brad, Stockton, CA   December 22nd, 2007 12:18 pm ET

As long as Hillary ends up in the toilet where she belongs, I will be extremely happy.

Scott, New York, NY   December 22nd, 2007 10:39 am ET

On the Obama v Clinton "electability" question (and to those who say there's no way Obama could win):

There are a number of lifelong Republicans who are disgusted with the debacle this administration has delivered to us (not just in Iraq). Were Obama the Dem nominee, I would consider voting for him. Hillary? Not a chance. Ron Paul's not going to get the GOP nomination and so the GOP antiwar vote may just take a look at Obama. There's no way they would consider Hillary. All of us are just tired with the scorched earth politics that we've had to endure the past 15 years. We don't need 4 more years of it.

quetzalcotal2012 lincoln nebraska   December 22nd, 2007 6:54 am ET

Does anyone on this page have any clue what foriegn relations is even supposed to mean, has anyone traveled across the united states or maybe went to another country outside of the vacation resort or the church run function that took you there…Or whatever your parents or your trust fund payed for…Does anyone have any clue how the govnt works and what the presidents actual role is? People are talking about the international community, forgein policy and political experiance…You dont need a whole lot of political experiance to run this country…Imagine the idea of the reason this country is in such terrible shape economy and education wise is that the people you keep electing have no idea what so ever whats going on, not a clue…There rich, they hangout with rich people…They dont know what the help wanted section in any news paper looks like, they take money from people who are exploting all the people writing on this page and you sit around and make up excuses standing up for them…How can you make fun of Obama for saying what he's said, when the housing market is sending us into recession…I think theres some serious disinformation going on here, maybe the people with all the "experiance" are the people who are selling you out, maybe you shouldnt listen to what they say

Mark R. Fort Lauderdale FL   December 22nd, 2007 3:06 am ET

I agree with Fair; Obama can't win the general election right now. The right is trying to get her to lose in the primary b/c they can beat Barack in the general.

Les WA   December 22nd, 2007 12:29 am ET

To Meks:

What you're saying was true. First time in my life, I've donated money (campaign contribution) to a candidate I feel can fix the problems Bush is about to leave. First time also, I take the primary seriously, I've never voted for primaries before (cast vote regularly in general election), but this time I will.

What I find quite insulting, the statement coming out from Obama camps, supporters of Hillary are a bunch of ignorant people. Majority of Hillary supporters are degree holders, but some choose to be housewives to take care of their family. I know a lot of women supporting Hillary, they're enterpreneurs and successful at that.

Obama does not impress me one bit, the rhetoric of Obama is very common in third world countries, candidates promises hopes and dreams, but that's about it. How those hopes and dreams can be achieve is to be discussed once they're office. 9 out of 10 fails to deliver to the people "hopes and dreams". Obama is not getting my vote, I'm not a gambler, I won't take my chances with a neophyte, wet behind the ears. Obama has so much to learn, he wanted to fly like an eagle, he need to grow more wings. Hillary Clinton gets my vote all the way!

Mario Uy Streamwood IL   December 21st, 2007 11:09 pm ET

Hmmm, there just might be a subliminal message here.

Obama, Clinton in dead heat. Do they mean Obama, dead, Clinton in heat?

Hmmm…

OverTheRainbow, KS   December 21st, 2007 10:01 pm ET

Biden is the only candidate that has everything that I am looking for …

Posted By Julie Overvig Medford,Oregon : December 21, 2007 6:49 pm

Julie -> I agree with you but he, and all the others, blew it a long time ago. During the first debate when Her Royal Thighness said I am the MOST experienced candidate running for president, he (and Dodd too) should have slammed on that statement. "Excuse me, Senator, between Sen. Dodd and myself, WE have are the most experienced of any candidate up here!" Instead, they let it pass, and the Clintonistas now tout that at every opportunity. Without THAT line, she has nothing, and her trolls and minions would be sucking wind telling us why she is qualified. They blew it from day one cuz they didn't want to upset the Queen, and made nice. Now he and Dodd will be gone after Iowa ……

Jose Card   December 21st, 2007 9:37 pm ET

Mind you that Dr. Ron Paul's poll result doesn't match his impressive online following with mostly small amounts of donations that totaled more than 6 million dollars in 24 hours. There might have been sampling issues in the poll.

JOHN CATTCHINS, MACON MISSISSIPPI   December 21st, 2007 9:25 pm ET

GO HILLARY GO FIGHT WIN YOU WILL DO THIS 4 THE GOOD OF THIS NATION EVEN IF THEY ARE STILL SLEEPING PASS WHO YOU REALLY ARE YOU KNOW IT AND THEY WILL KNOW JUST WIN WIN WIN HILLARY WE LOVE YOU MY LADY ….

dun, Manchester, NH   December 21st, 2007 8:35 pm ET

Obama's poll standings in iowa and new hampshire are like obama himself, they look better than the reality. His actual votes obtained on Jan 3 & 8 will be much less.

Obama counts a lot of support from university and college students in Iowa and New Hampshire. Unfortunately, many of these students are out-of-states especially in New Hampshire, and the voting dates (jan 3 & 8) are during their winter breaks.

For example, as it appears that Iowa require these young students to return back to their campuses for the caucuses, it is NOT promising that all these YOUNG students, who said supporting obama over the phone to pollsters, will go back to their campuses on Jan 3 and spend hours for the caucuses.

NO OBAMA,LA.   December 21st, 2007 8:17 pm ET

IT WAS NOT FOG. IT WAS OBAMA'S SMOKING! LMAO

fair, washington dc   December 21st, 2007 7:21 pm ET

I tortured myself as a democrat and watched the Fox network yesterday, I do that occassionally just to see what they are going on about. What did I discover…Barack Obama is the darling of the network..bashing Hillary at every turn, but Obama…you would think he was one of them. I have been saying all along they want Obama to win and they are actively on the job..I wouldn't be surprised if some Republicans are secretly donating to his campaign. I hate giving Republicans props, but they have it together when it comes to this election thing. Their checklist probably reads , Get Hillary out at all cost, then dust the floor with Obama. No offense Obama supporters, thats MY opinion of whats gonna happen if Obama is our nominee in the general election.

Julie Overvig Medford,Oregon   December 21st, 2007 6:49 pm ET

Biden is the only candidate that has everything that I am looking for in the next President, vast knowledge in foreign affairs and a actual plan that won bi-partisan support on his exit strategy of the war. Biden also has a track record of getting things accomplished, his bi-partisan legislation shows he can lead both parties. Biden also comes across as the straight talker of all the candidates, when the democratic candidates were asked in a debate about illegal aliens and drivers licenses all the democratic candidates were stumbling and talking in circles about the issue, Biden was the only one who who didn't. Finally I think Biden has what Reagan had in the 80's the ability to bring in the independent voter and the cross over voters,that is a sure winning strategy for a landslide victory in the general election.

Steve, MI   December 21st, 2007 6:41 pm ET

Isn't that amazing that CNN's H.H. poll puts clinton so far ahead while others put the race much closer. I guess we'll see if the media really can sway an election. Way to keep up your support of clinton's "inevitability" campaign, CNN.

Todd, Sacramento California   December 21st, 2007 6:17 pm ET

How can Obama get votes! He misses mosts votes on the floor and bags everyone else on what they voted for.At least we know where they stand. With Obama you get???????? All Talk!

Joeley Reno, Nevada   December 21st, 2007 5:09 pm ET

Barak Obama talks a good line but he's WEAK!

We are at a cross-road in our history.

It is not the time for a smooth talking newbie to be thrown into the messy politics of DC.

The hard core neocons in DC will chew Obama up and spit him out.

We need HILLARY!

She's got the guts, the experience and the ability to make positive changes in the imperfect political system we've created in this country.

If you were hiring a CEO to run your company would you choose the the achedemic who feeds you the 'hype or wish ego' or the battle tested candidate whose experience, ability and performance is a matter of fact.

I will choose the candidate I know will effectively and productively navigate the political waters of Washington DC.

HILLARY CLINTON 2008!

Daniel Bells, Boston, MA   December 21st, 2007 3:52 pm ET

Whether it be Obama or Hillary, we need a democrat who can take a white house. If Obama wins, Hillary followers including Bill should campaign for him and if Hillary wins, then Oprah should be gracious enough to accompany Obama on Hillary's platform.
Dems for 08 to the White House!

JIM SHELL BARDSTOWN KY.40004   December 21st, 2007 3:46 pm ET

AMERICA GET READY!
NANCY PELOSI FAMOUS WORDS "THE AMERICAN PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN" (TOO BAD SHE DID NOT HEAR THEM)WILL HAVE A WHOLE NEW MEANING ONCE THE PRESIDENTAL ELECTION IS DECIDED.
BARAK OBAMA WILL WIN THE PRESIDENTAL NOMINEE ELECTION AND WIN THE PRESIDENTAL ELECTION. WHY***?
HE IS THE CLOSEST THING AMERICANS HAVE AS A CHOICE THAT DOES NOT FIT THE CATAGORY OF WE KNOW WHAT WE WILL GET FROM USUAL DEMS, AND REPS, THAT WILL BE CONTROLLED BY LOBBIEST, AND MONEY. BETWEEN THE DIVISION OF PRO. LIFE AND ABORTION RIGHTS HALF THE VOTES WILL EQUAL OUT. BECAUSE OF NO INDEPENDANT CANDATE PEOPLE WILL VOTE FOR OMAMA JUST TO SHOW THE POLITICANS THE ARE TIRED OF THIS AND THEY WILL NOT TOLERATE BEING TREATED AS DUMMIES AND TAKEN FOR GRANET. EVEN VOTERS WHOM HAVE RACE RESERVATIONS WILL VOTE FOR OBAMA BECAUSE THEY STILL RECONIZE HIM AS A BETTER OPTION THAN ANY OF THE OTHERS.
WHEN THE ELECTION IS OVER THE HEADLINES WILL BE: POLITICIANS LOST. LOBBIEST IN TURMOIL SAY "MY GOD WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT THIS ENTERNET" WE CAN NO LONGER LIE AND BUY WITHOUT THE PEOPLE NOT KNOWING. THE PEOPLE ARE NO LONGER STUPID

Henric, Amsterdam   December 21st, 2007 3:36 pm ET

People like Obama because he's genuine and a natural leader. People like to listen and trust people who have those qualities. And they like them even more when they have something to say. Which is what both Obama and Hillary do. But while Obama oozes confidence and has all the marks of a natural leader, Hillary has spent 20 years twisting and turning trying to be all of the above. She isn't genuine. She's a product. Everything is scripted, tested. Real leaders don't need that, because people just recognize them for what they are.

Meks, florida   December 21st, 2007 3:18 pm ET

They are not in dead heat. The polls since monday have been consistent in showing Sen Clinton is on the rise though the liberal media is supressing this as much as they could. Visit Realpolitics.com to see for yourselves. It is so bad that even Real politics chose the poll that showed Sen Clinton leading by the narrowest margin as their main story. Reverse was the case when Obama temprarily surged ahead two weeks ago before the empty suit was discovered by additional voters. Many hearts will be broken in weeks to come and i only hope they will be mended well enough to vote in the general election. For some of you Obama fans (democratic party fans) that idiotically state you will vote another candidate if Sen Clinton wins, have you asked yourself what happens when Sen Clinton's fans decide not to vote Sen Obama if he gets the nomination. Think twice before making senseless statements. Sen Clinton evokes more passion from her supporters than any other candidates and i think such self-serving statements should not come out of the mouth of any democrat. Support and vote your candidate, the result will be known in a month's time when the primaries are tallied.

Go B in nyc   December 21st, 2007 3:00 pm ET

I hope Obama wins the nomination.

Still, I'm hoping Obama stays a few points behind Clinton in the polls up until election day.

Otherwise, it is frightening to think about how desperate the Clintons will become. They will settle for no less than 16 years in the White House.

You can count on the Clintons to risk their honor and integrity to get those 16 years.

They will lie until it is too late for the truth to matter.

Helen, NY   December 21st, 2007 2:51 pm ET

Both are not fit to be president of our country period.

Stephen Davis, Sierra Vista AZ   December 21st, 2007 2:47 pm ET

I like Obama but I was not going to vote for him because I thought it would have been a wasted vote. I never would have thought America would vote for a black president, but i'm begining to think that Obama could win this election now. Maybe my vote won't go to waste

jaguar   December 21st, 2007 2:46 pm ET

What cunning by the Clintions. Playing passive-agressive slash and burn politics, trying to undermine Obama’s campaign. First they tried to lie and say that Hillary and Obama has the same position on Iraq–even before the invasion! They were trying to destroy his standing on that position by misleading. Now they are feeding the NY Times info. meant to undercut Obama’s principles. Can’t wait to see how she is going to explain all the special interest money she is getting. Maybe she will leak to the Times that kids giving Obama $10 dollar donations are lobbying for more access to Ridalin?

jd, des moines, iowa   December 21st, 2007 2:28 pm ET

Obama's poll standings in Iowa and New Hampshire are like Obama himself, the reality is WORSE than the looks.

He draws a lot of supports from university and college students. While they may tell the pollsters over the phone that they support Obama now, many of these young kids will never spend a few hours to show up to caucus or vote because (a) a good TV show or football is in progress, or (b) they are out-of-town students or residents. In the 2004 election, only 17% of the eligible voting students showed up to vote.

In addition, as the caucus or voting dates draw near, the voters will think harder and will not vote Obama because of: his inexperience, his color of skin, his indiscretions when young, his muslim background, his dirty tricks, his flip-flopps in policies, etc. In short, he is not electable, and it would be a disaster for the democrat party to nominate him.

Ryan O. Wilmington, DE   December 21st, 2007 2:24 pm ET

Hillary, Obama, Edwards, Biden…

As long as its not another Repuplican for President than I dont care. We cant afford it!!! I'll take any of the above!

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   December 21st, 2007 2:10 pm ET

As John Edwards pointed out in his appearance on Hardball this week, he beats all GOP candidates in head-to-head polls and he does it consistently. _That's_ electability

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   December 21st, 2007 2:07 pm ET

Please wake up everybody!!

No matter what Hillary tries to SAY, Obama is leading ALL Republican candidates in head-to-head polling!

I agree that racism is still a problem in America. BUT FACE IT: this man transcends race and he IS ELECTABLE. In fact, way more so than Hillary

Karen, Santa Cruz, Ca   December 21st, 2007 2:01 pm ET

Wow! Are all the Hillary Haters just sitting at their computers, waiting for more news items, so they can leap on board and instantly circumvent her good news with their venom? Judging by the postings here, it's obvious that Obama supporters are pretty much out of touch with reality as far as his chance of winning goes. Boy, are they in for a big surprise!

joeG,ohio   December 21st, 2007 1:53 pm ET

I agree, Obama has the best chance at beating the Repubs in the General election.

OBAMA '08

renna,ct   December 21st, 2007 1:52 pm ET

I agree with you,
Obama is already 4% higher in stats then Hillary.
We NEED changes, and improvment,
VOTE 0BAMA 08′

wallette,san f,ca   December 21st, 2007 1:41 pm ET

The Billary campaign plays dirty all time, and takes in huge $$ from China through surrogates.

Elect Hillary and get China debts at the highest level of government.
Obama offers fresh blood in the white house….

jd, des moines, iowa   December 21st, 2007 1:39 pm ET

Although the USA Today/Gallup poll is released today as CNN states, that poll showing a tie between Hillary and Obama is actually a few days old (poll taken on dec 17-19).

Another poll ending the same day of Dec 19 (Dec 16-19) released much earlier by American Research Group
shows that Hillary is ahead by 14 points.

MOST polls of recent days show that Hillary is gaining grounds in Iowa and New Hampshire.

The most recent Dec 19 national poll of Fox News shows that Hillary is ahead over Obama by 29 points (49 v 20). She has improved a lot nationally in the last 3 polls, getting close to her October all time high.

Ron, Seattle, Washington   December 21st, 2007 1:39 pm ET

Kudos to CNN for presenting such a well-balanced and objective article on the whole poll issue. This really restores my faith in the media again seeing CNN point out other polls with vastly different results. Refreshing to finally see an unbiases piece.

jason,nyc,ny   December 21st, 2007 1:36 pm ET

Obama is more confident he can do well in the early primary voting state and predicted voters who are paying close attention to the Democratic race will choose him over his top opponent, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton

carrol brown   December 21st, 2007 1:34 pm ET

BO is not far off the mark, but Hillary will find most of her votes coming from the Clinton lovers and the socialists. Beyond that, how many other votes she casually recieves will depend on who the non-socialist candidate will be running against him

tina,cleveland,ohio   December 21st, 2007 1:30 pm ET

I am a democrate and yes I have to agree. The national polls indicate that the we will loose the election. I want change but I don't beleive the country will elect a blackman or a woman as president. The election hinges not with majority vote but by electorial college. The states we need to carry inorder to win the election will not go democrate. Florida for instance will not go to the democrates. When you travel outside palm beach and go north it is republican. If the republicans carry florida it is virtually impossible for us to win the election. I've been saying it for months we need someone like Edwards. If you look at polls the republican's 3rd pick Guiliani beats Hillary or Obama. We are set up again for a big let down because we are blinded by our own stuborness. Out odf the top 3 probably Obama is the best choice but again he wouldn't win. We need to unite or we will have a conservative in office again.

fred,derry,NH   December 21st, 2007 1:27 pm ET

I HAVE TO AGREE WITH YOU AND IT GOES FOR HILLARY TOO…… NEITHER ONE IS PRESIDENTIAL MATERIAL…….BOTH HAVE SELF SERVING AGENDAS AND HILLARY HAS AN EGO AND WANTA BE BOSS AGENDA
I LIKE THE POSTER MYSELF"""""FREE SPEACH""""'FREE OPINIONS""""" STILL PERMITED IN AMERICA……….

anderson,nyc,ny   December 21st, 2007 1:26 pm ET

I think obama might win if Hillary kept changing her positions and she kept planting people. she is also really dirty in her campaigning. i would…i can't i am gonna say this…rather vote for him then Hillary.

Brian,WI   December 21st, 2007 1:24 pm ET

As far as my political views go…I think Hilary has a much lower chance of winning the ticket than Obama or Edwards….or even Chris Dodd. To say that Obama would "only help the blacks" is an incredibly ignorant comment.

One could say the same thing about many women only seeing Hilary for the support she can bring to women. I believe that Hilary Clinton will not provide the country with what it needs at this point in time; a strong progressive influence.

kristy   December 21st, 2007 1:23 pm ET

don't really care for either one of em'

perrino,michigan   December 21st, 2007 1:19 pm ET

Morning everyone!

I will say this… polls are meaningless especially when they are this early. You should not depend on polls or be influenced by them, like I said they're meaningless. Polls are a waste of time and who knows how erroneous they are.

Good day.

John New York, NY   December 21st, 2007 1:18 pm ET

Richardson, Dodd and Biden will almost certainly drop out the day after Iowa.

Edwards may drop out as well if he comes in third in Iowa.

Most of those votes aren't going to go to Clinton.

joe,boston,ma   December 21st, 2007 1:14 pm ET

Hillary with her banker mentality will scream like dean. just wait.

Peter,sf,california   December 21st, 2007 1:14 pm ET

Obama: Too many racist people in the USA to get enough votes.
Clinton: Female white politician with experience.

My vote would go to Obama, but I know the American people will make a wrong choice again.

Mark my words.

It'll be Jeb Bush that's your next president

cathy,ca   December 21st, 2007 1:09 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is beginning to realize that this race is no sheer matter of steely will, outstanding intelligence and great rhetorical skills — all of which she possesses.

Michael, Johns Creek, Georgia   December 21st, 2007 1:09 pm ET

You are all missing 2 important points: Iowa caucuses highly reward people's second choice – neither Clinton nor Obama have that going for them – where do you think the Richardson, Biden, etc. supporters are going to pick. Who is the strongest Democratic candidate (in ALL polls) against every single Republican candidate. Watch it unfold, folks!!!

jackie,derry,newhempshire   December 21st, 2007 1:08 pm ET

an the Republicans really be so lucky to get into a character debate with Hillary. Did Christmas come early?

More importantly, can the Republicans capitalize? And, DO THE DEMOCRATS care about character? Pubs get rid of their character problems…. Dems give them chairmanships of committees.I personally think Obama scores high on this one!

gt,ohio   December 21st, 2007 1:04 pm ET

This woman must exist in a completely air-tight, glass echo chamber if she thinks she can throw stones at Mr. Obama. Is she trying to accentuate her already daunting negatives?

What are her sycophants keeping from queen bee sociopath, here? Not only does the empress not have any clothes, she's a veritable walking skeleton on the character issue (not that you can tell from her size 16 pantsuits).

Do the American people really want another 4 years of these political games? Do they really want the hyper-partisanship that is the trademark of the Clintons?

La'Kitgum, Concord, NH   December 21st, 2007 1:04 pm ET

The key word is "Proven" ability.

I trust I am confident Hillary will be our next President. Obama talks about changing the usual way of doing things in Washington BUT he has never identified one thing he is going to change and he has never mentioned what he wants to change it into.

Obama is just a Cry Baby. He knows pretty well he does not have the experience required to lead a world power like the USA. Now he is gone into Scare Mongering. C'mon dude, talk issues. Is the sky falling over you yet? Run and hide under Oprah's skirt..!

Hilaary .. 08

stan pitts pa   December 21st, 2007 1:02 pm ET

I am wondering why people don't call Obama by his full name. I mean as in: Barack Hussein Obama. Hussein is a fine name.

Posted By Danielle, Manassas, VA : December 21, 2007 12:33 pm

its simply because most americans dont use their middle name much its simply an initial, obama cant change a name given to him at birth, all fault lies with his parents, he has only borne the name barack obama his entire life and thats what he can really identify with, he is a christian and america believes him, please keep your pettiness to yourself, its like critizing wolf blitzer for his name wolf! once again all fault lies with parents who name their kids , thx

victor,NH   December 21st, 2007 12:58 pm ET

Classic Hillary. Have one of your goons make a scurrilous comment trashing a foe and then publicly state you had no knowledge of it nor had you approved it and that you condemn it.

Do people really fall for this?
Anywone but Hillary!

Edward,kansas,mo   December 21st, 2007 12:57 pm ET

I think Hillary's campaign is already paying the price for engaging in this kind of politics. Obama already had a slight lead: look for it to widen as Hillary has to back off aggressively engaging him so she doesn't look like she is continuing Bill Shaheen's attack. Obama seems to have learned Bill Clinton's trick of counter punching while looking like the victim and that appears to be giving Bill fits. Now he knows how the Republicans felt about him for all those years. ;-)

Ben smith,ca   December 21st, 2007 12:55 pm ET

I hate to be the one to say so folks, but the Republicans are salivating over the chance to take on either Hillary or Obama. These polls reflect a response in a hypothetical atmosphere that doesn't take into account the unethical assaults the Republicans will use to tear down any Democrat they face. The Republicans can see daylight if they face one of these two for the most obvious of reasons. The attacks almost write themselves. With a deft exploitation and understanding of the electoral map, the Republican swine can take those attacks and put together a winning 270 electoral votes and this poll (or any others) doesn't measure that scenario.

It doesn't mean the Republicans will win, but I'm sure they think they are at least still in the game in fall 08 if one of these two gets the nod. I think they are much more fearful of Edwards and they have reason to be afraid of having to face him. That's why they've spent so much time and energy working the media against him on the cheap smears. They hope to keep him down and out of the primary competition first and foremost. The attack points on Edwards wouldn't allow them to exploit the most visceral and base fears of the electorate as would the attacks on the others. It's despicable of course, but it's reality.

Steven in Charleston, SC   December 21st, 2007 12:55 pm ET

I would like to ask an opinion of some of the more thoughtful, serious-minded folks on here. And please, while the "haters" may feel a knee-jerk desire to respond, if you are of the belief that either: a) all Democrats are evil socialists who want to drink the blood of babies; or b) all the Democratic candidates but your own are evil and want to drink the blood of babies, then kindly refrain from commenting.

Now, on to my question:

What has John Edwards been unable to rise to the top as a true contender for the Democratic nomination?

Here is a man who is smart, funny, good-looking, charismatic, has a beautiful, sympathetic family, and who has a message that should resonate with most people. He actually won the SC primary in 04. Yet he seems to be stuck in 3rd place when, in many ways, he is the "ideal picture" of a candidate. So why isn't he at the top of the pack?

I mean no disresepect to the other candidates — I have a lot of respect for both Senators Clinton and Obama. However I worry that Sen. Clinton is a bit too "establishment" and Sen. Obama, for all his abilities, sometimes comes across as a bit naive, especially as it pertains to foreign affairs, and there is also the lingering question of whether Americans, in the privacy of the voting booth, will actually vote for a black man.

Again, I mean no disrespect, and I would feel just fine supporting either one of them if they got the nomination. But I think we need to be honest about the fact that neither of them is the "ideal" candidate — so why aren't people giving Edwards more of a chance?

Thoughts?

richardson,va   December 21st, 2007 12:54 pm ET

Poll: Obama Stronger Nominee Than Hillary

The new Battleground poll — a joint project of George Washington University, Democratic polling firm Lake Research, and GOP polling firm the Tarrance Group — would indicate that Barack Obama is a much stronger general election candidate than Hillary Clinton. While a generic Democrat has an 11-point lead over a generic Republican, Hillary loses to Rudy Giuliani and only leads Fred Thompson by two points. Obama, meanwhile, beats Rudy by a nine-point margin, and Fred Thompson by an even wider edge:

Democrat 49%, Republican 38%
Giuliani (R) 50%, Clinton (D) 44%
Clinton (D) 47%, F. Thompson (R) 45%
Obama (D) 52%, Giuliani (R) 43%
Obama (D) 56%, F. Thompson (R) 36%

Frazier   December 21st, 2007 12:53 pm ET

If the Clintons have a marriage that gave her 35 yrs of experience Hillary knew the immoral seduction Bill Clinton did to an intern & declared that he "did not have sex with that woman". The deep pockets that qualified her spouse qualify her now. Republicans will whip her immoral conduct. Gov. Richardson was re-elected by Republicans & Democrats. But the media must pay its dues to the deep pockets that finance them. Richardson gets minimal acknowledge in every debate, the stage is set for Clinton, using the others as side kick. Money talks in America, not experience & quality like God

fred,nashua,NH   December 21st, 2007 12:49 pm ET

thanks "progressive people"!!!!

whites,blacks,asians & hispanics…..

whether you are republican, independent or democratic!!!!!

i . like you am supporting OBAMA, because i am tired of the "EXPERIENCED POLITICO'S in WASH.,D.C."!!!!

"neo-con repukes & undemocratic demorats"!!!

who are "BOUGHT & PAID FOR BY LOBBYIST"!!!

I WANT MY GOVERNMENT BACK!!!!

NO DRAMA WITH OBAMA IN 2008!!!!

Kevin FL   December 21st, 2007 12:48 pm ET

I'm Sick of these polls everyday its a new poll from every News Outlet.. As we all know Hillary Clinton will get the Democratic Nomination in 2008 regardless of what the polls say.

George,Md   December 21st, 2007 12:42 pm ET

RC's current mantra is that she is "vetted" and "tested." Funny how she adopted that argument after claiming ignorance over her staffer's raising the question of Obama's electability because of drug use as a teenager. Could it be that HRC needed that staffer to drive the story home so that HRC would be set-up to come hot on the heels of the controversy with her new mantra? As far as HRC being "vetted" and "tested," I guess that means the Republicans will just throw up their hands and say "Well, we can't touch her. Let's just concede the presidency to her." That's not naive, it's delusional. I'm hopeful that the common sense voters in this country will recognize that whoever the Democrat candidate will be, they will be subject to "swiftboating" and the "politics of personal destruction" by the right-wing and after Kerry's debacle in 2004, all Democrat candidates should and better be prepared for it. All HRC's being "vetted" means is that they will come after her even harder now that she feels so invulnerable to their attacks.

martin,ny   December 21st, 2007 12:42 pm ET

As a centrist who growup before the technology age…I am amazed at what the country has become. As a get government off our back guy I like Ron Paul. As a person who longs for an honest answer I like Obama. Clintons are not the answer folks. The Clintons gave us NAFTA which is destroying the country. The republican revolution of the 90's could not have happened without the Clintons support. Though Ron Pauls delivering is off sometimes the message is clear America first and follow the constitution. It has worked for over 200 years.

american   December 21st, 2007 12:39 pm ET

I wish people would get off the Obama experience bandwagon. Look, this guy is smart, curious, and courageous. He's everything Bush is not. I really think folks harp on this drugs and booze thing because Obama's a different shade and it's more politically correct to say he's a druggie than admit you ain't gonna vote for him 'cause he's black. If that isn't the case, why is it Bush's alcoholism and cocaine use wasn't front and center when he was campaigning? Bush had a DUI for kripes sake! As for the experience canard, history shows some of best presidents had so-called "little experience." Just what kind of experience are we talking about here anyway? Experience with crooked donors, special interests, lobbyists and political cronies? We don't need that kind of experience! We've had 8 years of it! Foreign experience? We've had that a plenty, too. Colin Powell, a man I respected until he got into bed with Bush, was our point man on foreign policy under Bush when we jumped into this horrible war. Don't use him as an example of a "Black man with foreign experience that people would vote for president instead of Obama." He stood by and did nothing. Forget experience–how about someone with cojones! I liked Bill when he was in office and he did a lot of good. He's smart but not smarter than Obama. He threw away his legacy on a stupid sex affair that played right into Republican hands. How smart is that? If it comes down to Hillary and a repub, I'll hold my nose and vote for her, but until then I'm fighting for Obama. Hillary's part of the same old machine and this country desperately needs a new direction.

Michelle, AL   December 21st, 2007 12:38 pm ET

Wasn't there a story in the last couple days saying that Clinton had surged back in the lead in NH? Stop your mind games, CNN!

concerned   December 21st, 2007 12:37 pm ET

If I sigh in front of my computer does it translate into the writing? Anyway, just take a look at the things that Sen. Obama has accomplished in his short first term in senate. Much like he is promising to do in his campaign, he has stood by his guns and has his name on several bi-partisan bills which he helped get started, as well as casting key votes on several of the bills which were key to his constituents.
Hillary merely has a record of casting her vote along party lines (97.1% to be exact) whether it is really what the people which elected her wanted/needed or not. It says alot to support your party in a blind and brainless fashion, but it says more to introduce new bills which directly effect the people whom elected you. We are too caught up in Democrat and Republican lines, and Obama is offering us a fresh new perspective. I am glad that he doesn't have 20 years of political experience. I think he won't be able to push through the old channels of politics like Bill is warning, but I believe he has the knowledge, strength and drive to create new and innovative ones.

dana,georgia   December 21st, 2007 12:36 pm ET

OBAMA! We need fresh blood in the White House! NO MORE BUSH! NO MORE CLINTONS! OBAMA has intellect and the moral principles to effectively lead our nation. I cannot say the same for Hillary …

Reggie, Germany   December 21st, 2007 12:36 pm ET

People wake up Hillary is a meglomaniac!! I've always tried to figure out why Hillary thinks she has all 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????

You guys print in great detail a shameless plug from Bill calling Hillary a genius but refuse to report statements made by Hillary which if made by any other candidate would be front page news for days, i.e. Kucinich and U.F.O's.

Well what planet was Hillary on when she became president the first time???

Hmmmmmm maybe thats why Bill thinks she such a genius. Must be where those 35 years of experience came from too.

Danielle, Manassas, VA   December 21st, 2007 12:33 pm ET

I am wondering why people don't call Obama by his full name. I mean as in: Barack Hussein Obama. Hussein is a fine name.

Daniel, NY   December 21st, 2007 12:30 pm ET

Another poll of New Hampshire released today has Clinton opening up a much larger lead against Obama — but McCain going up even further and tying Romney completely. Link.

Dan, NJ   December 21st, 2007 12:30 pm ET

It is ridiculous that a poll yesterday shows a 12 point lead for HRC and today's poll shows a tie. It is bad news for Obama that McCain is making a comeback.

Regarding Obama's chances, I think a dead heat in NH is good for him right now. If he can pull off Iowa, that will likely surge him to victory in NH and SC. From there, the landscape of Feb 5th changes completely.

Ben ,derry,nh   December 21st, 2007 12:30 pm ET

I have taken many swings at honest Abe in my day. I will ALWAYS go to my reference gleaned from Dave Chappelle that America has many traditions, but lets look at our fabled past-time of baseball: oh, wait… enough has been said about that so there is no need to saddle up that horse. I base my vote on what I SEE as well as what I hear and read. If I wanted a dry candidate to be the figurehead of what used to be the greatest country in the world I would push to get 4 more years… but, once again, this is a horse that has already left the stable so there is no need to close the barn door. I will stick with my Dairy Queen until further notice.

josh   December 21st, 2007 12:29 pm ET

Time for Clinton to plant some voters.

Mike, NY   December 21st, 2007 12:28 pm ET

Giuliani beating Ron Paul in NH? Give me a break…

Carl, Dallas, TX   December 21st, 2007 12:26 pm ET

I'm truly sick of these stupid polls.

They mean nothing and will continue to mean nothing for people that use their brains and THINK for themselves.

If you base your voting on some random poll, then you shouldnt' have been allowed permission to even be here…

Ben, Keene, NH   December 21st, 2007 12:26 pm ET

While Clinton and Obama argue about who has the best experience and judgment, it's clear to many of us that Joe Biden lays the most authentic claim to both. Glitz and the cameras follow the stars, in politics as in show biz, but running for office and being a good president are different skill sets. Of this group of Democrats, Biden is the one who belongs in the Oval Office.

Middle America   December 21st, 2007 12:25 pm ET

It appears Hillary's lead is not as stable as everyone thought. The first few states don't mean much to me, I'm waiting for February 5th, that will tell us who will be nominated. They will soon listen to the People speak, the politicians are all deaf at this point in time!!! They don't hear us when we say control the border, get inflation under control, help the middle class and get our troops out of IRAQ…but they will and soon. I want to retire soon but the way things are going I will have to work until I'm 70 years old!

fred,derry,NH   December 21st, 2007 12:25 pm ET

Bill's comments about being a risk are bogus and smell of desperation. Ms Clinton is, by far, the riskiest candidate out there. A Hillary nomination will invigorate the demoralized Republicans like nothing else. The rednecks will come out of the wordwork to vote her down to keep and her and her pathetic husband out the WH. Obama on the other hand has many supporters who are Independents and even some Republicans. I suspect there is not one single republican that supports HRC.

david,newton,iowa   December 21st, 2007 12:23 pm ET

I am liking obama more and more. he is very articulate, quick, sharp, and refreshing. i did vote for clinton in 92 and 96, but those two are really getting on my nerves now. they really are ruthlessly ambitious and EXPECT to win. she has stuck by a serial adulterer for 30+ years. i mean huh? and poor chelsea knows she is the product of a loveless political marriage. at this point, i don't think one democratic candidate would do any better or worse than the other. as long as it isn't bush or a republican, they could put elmo in and i'd be happy. at least elmo would cheer everyone up! and let's face it. the candidates cabinet does all the work and if congress can get along with that candidate, who cares if it's hillary or obama? with the clinton track record, obama better make sure he's not on any charter planes that malfunction all of a sudden. yikes!

Posted by: emmarose | Dec 15, 2007 8:02:33 PM

Would the Clintons rather Obama lied like they did. Hillary had better remember her husband answer to a question regarding his drug use. Remember this?…"I tried it (marijuana) but I did not inhale.." Bill Clinton. Let us cut to the chase. The Clintons are outrightly desperate.

Makeba...Houston, TX   December 21st, 2007 12:23 pm ET

I see Iowa going for Barack, I see NH doing the same, especially if he wins Iowa and teh Independants vote in the Dem primary, obviously he will then get SC. If he wins all three….Nevada is not that far away, especially with all that new fundraising capacity and an Edwards endorsement. My question is what happens after he wins the first 4? How much momentum will he need to carry the Feb 5 primaries? Any ideas people? I mean after the first 4…he would only need half of the Feb 5th primaries right?

vicky,boston,ma   December 21st, 2007 12:22 pm ET

I am no Hillary fan, but I like to keep history from being totally distorted – if that is possible(?) – sure,
Hillary made mistakes in her search for a health care solution but the MAJOR reasons for the legislation not passing in 1994 were efforts to defeat it by the Gingrich forces and Senator Dole, whose support was needed and NOT FORTH-COMING BECAUSE OF HIS OWN PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS.

Ben ,derry,nh   December 21st, 2007 12:21 pm ET

No Thank You Hillary – I'm for Obama !

Barack Obama for a better America.

It's time to Rise and Shine again America.

John Smith   December 21st, 2007 12:18 pm ET

The moron who wrote this story needs to get there facts straight. Its not New Hampshire that is a toss up its…IOWA!
The writer meant to say IOWA…not New Hampshire. Hillary has a 12 point lead in New Hampshire.

Ben ,nyc,ny   December 21st, 2007 12:11 pm ET

Note that because Clinton and Obama have eaten up the majority of media attention, I am more apt to consider their electability polls compared to candidates who haven’t received the media spotlight and vetting.

jim,nashua,nh   December 21st, 2007 12:10 pm ET

Here is one consistent finding that continues to come out in poll after poll. Barack Obama does better so far against the Republican nominees than does Hillary Clinton.

Note that the electability polls that the Clinton camp usually cite are about who Democrats perceive to be most electable. For some reason, Democrats perceive Clinton to be most electable when the general election polls don’t support that.

cathy,ca   December 21st, 2007 12:08 pm ET

Many are predicting Obama will end up as the winner…all I can say is as some of you have said, a mike H vs Obama in the General Election would be one of the craziest elections of all time.

brain,washing dc   December 21st, 2007 12:07 pm ET

John,
Many people think if Obama doesn't take 3 out of 4 of the early states, he's finished on February 5th.
I think I might agree with those people.

But I find it entirely possible. I know Barack can take SC, but Nevada seems very distant. Iowa and New Hampshire are completely in the air.

Actually, Michigan (yea us!) has it's primary after NH, but no one is on the ballot.
I'll be voting for Ron Paul here. smile

John,boston,ma   December 21st, 2007 12:06 pm ET

kevin,

Yes! This is good news and I'm glad to hear it. I've been looking at national numbers and somehow Hillary, on the whole, is making a come back- but if Obama can pull Iowa and another of the early primaries maybe there's more hope than I thought.

At the same time-Iowa polls (excepting the Des Moines Registers' which has, since the seventies, called almost every primary perfectly) are notoriously bad because of their caucus system.

kevin,japan   December 21st, 2007 12:04 pm ET

Which Democrat can beat Huckabee in the general election?
Barack Obama 0.65217391304348 65.2% [ 30 ]
John Edwards 0.19565217391304 19.6% [ 9 ]
Hillary Clinton 0.15217391304348 15.2% [

Roger   December 21st, 2007 12:00 pm ET

You Obama supporters are stuck in 1968. Your dreamers. The Republicans need only 270 points to win the electoral college which means the race comes down to Ohio, Florida, Iowa, and Pennsylvania. Obama won't win 3 of the 4 which means we're stuck with some idiot Republican pushing the same old thing- neoconism and the destruction of the US as a free secular country. More war, more debt, more illegal immigration. It just isn't worth it. Be pragmatic- choose the candidate that can win the electoral college.

270towin

Ron, TX   December 21st, 2007 11:58 am ET

"Well, the first thing she intends to do, because you can do this without passing a bill, the first thing she intends to do is to send me and former President Bush and a number of other people around the world to tell them that America is open for business and cooperation again," Clinton said in response to a question from a supporter about what his wife's "number one priority" would be as president.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/18/bill-clinton-george-hw-bush-will-help-president-hillary/
Former President George H.W. Bush has shot down his successor Bill Clinton’s idea of a diplomatic mission under a Hillary Clinton presidency that would send him and other notables abroad to assure other nations that “America is open for business and cooperation again.”
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/18/elder-bush-nixes-clinton-trip-idea/

So basically, Hillary isn't even in the White House yet, and she ALREADY FAILED to accomplish not only the -first thing- she plans to do, but also her number one priority… Didn't her campaign claim she could bring people together? I just don't see how that is true.

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