Richard,
I realize that even though Hillary didn't withdraw her vote of support for the Iraq war, this fall when Gen Petreaus was preparing his report on the progress in Iraq since the troop surge, that CNN quoted her more than once that our troops needed to be brought home.
Clearly showing me a definate lack of conviction.
Its like when the issue was raised if New York should issue drivers licenses to illegal immigrants. She did the same thing, tottering on the edge of both sides, never giving that 'straight' answer.
I am also a supporter of Senator McCain, as I believe he is the ONLY one with the conviction, integrity, and courage to lead this country and stand up to not only the terrorists who wish to destroy it, but also to some politicians who didn't appear to want to listen to our Military Commanders over what was needed to complete their mission in Iraq.

David from Gilbert, AZ—

I would like you to further develop your line of thinking, as I think it bears much consideration.

However—-Al-Zawahiri has allegedly claimed Al Qaeda responsibility for the assassination. Now, Al Qaeda is (allegedly) a sworn enemy of Musharaff and his (allegedly) pro-American coalition status.

It has long been known that Musharaff's government (particularly his intelligence arm, the ISI) has been infiltrated by either Al Qaeda agents, or those who would sympathize with them.

In whose interests was it most beneficial to remove Bhutto?
Musharaff's? Al Qaeda's? Both? Or…….ALL interested parties?

I heard Gov. Richardson refer this morning to having urged action when Benazir Bhutto's father was assassinated. Her father was not assassinated but executed for allagedly arranging the murder of a political opponent.

Jarod, Raleigh, NC, your comments make very little sense. The Pakistan People's Party is the largest political element in Pakistan. It is also the most popular according to Pakistani polling data. Musharraf's approval rating, on the other hand, ranks right up there with President Bush and the democrat Congress, meaning it isn't very good. With Bhutto gone the People's Party is left struggling. It also removes a very vocal opposition to Musharraf's government.

How quickly people seem to forget that Musharraf suspended the Pakistani Constitution and fired the Chief Justice in order to remain in power. He also had his political opponents arrested. This is the same man who took control of Pakistan through a military coup in 1999 and the United States is pouring billions of dollars into his government. There are very few people who believe that Pakistan can hold a fair and open election now that Bhutto is gone.

I have friends who live in Pakistan. When I mention the American view of Islamic jihadist terrorists doing this terrible deed they laugh and say it's very typical of us to blame everything on Al Qaeda and fanatic Islamists. There is not one of my Pakistani friends who does not believe Musharraf and/or his military was behind this assassination. If it makes people sleep better at night to blame Islamic fanatics for every bad thing that happens in the Middle East and West Asia then by all means please do so, even if it is completely untrue.

Now I'm not exactly sure how stating facts equals hate but whatever floats your boat. If you ask me, however, that is a pretty big stretch of the imagination and a complete misrepresentation of the situation at hand.

So Al Qaeda has claimed responsibility for Bhutto's death.

Has anyone asked "cui bono"?

Who benefits from Bhutto's death?

Is it Musharaff?
Yes. He will now face the upcoming "(s)election" unopposed. He will maintain his (allegedly) tenuous grip on power.

Is it Al Qaeda?
Yes. They can claim another feather for their cap in order to keep the region destabilized and insure that the (alleged) jihad continues.

Politics makes strange bedfellows indeed.

If we are to believe that our "ally" Musharaff stands to gain just as much from Bhutto's death as does our (and his) "enemy" Al Qaeda—then what does that say about the relationship between Al Qaeda and Musharaff?

It has been well documented that Pakistani intelligence (ISI) has been routinely penetrated by Al Qaeda agents, even at the highest levels. For example, former ISI chief General Mahmoud Ahmad was found by the FBI to be the source of a $100,000 wire transfer to (alleged) 9/11 hijacker Mohammed Atta in the months prior to 9/11. (What this General was doing on Capitol Hill having breakfast with soon-to-be-confirmed CIA chief Porter Goss on the morning of 9/11 remains an unanswered question).

What constitutes an "enemy" and what constitutes an "ally"?
Perhaps we should ask Henry Kissinger, or Zbniew Brzezinski.

With Musharaff remaining in power, it is a virtual lock that Pakistan will continue to remain the United States' staunch ally in the "War on Terror" and the seemingly endless war with Al Qaeda will continue as before.

Once again, "cui bono"?

In such light of this recent massacre we all must step back for a moment and prey that the light Bhutto sought to bring remains in place for millions in the region. She was a light for democracy and felt that it had to include everyone. Lets just step back and say a prey for this woman and her family during this grieving point.

What the candidates said was suppose to be heartfelt, HIllary and John McCain both new Bhutto and there statements were true reflections on the heavy hearts they bear for this woman.

We should not be placing any type of blame on who would handle this better who is not mature enough but look at each candidate as an individual, who has the right experience, who holds a place closest to your personal core value and vote for that person. Voting should be heralded as a great civic duty we take pride in. We may have our favorite candidate and we have reasons why, but in the end it comes down to a vote of the people and some-case people and a court but we have to move forward.

If you don't take pride in your civic duty to vote then you have less right to chime in because you are not actively taking your place in democracy. Let us morn the loss of this great woman Bhutto. She was that light of hope and democracy in the region.

To be fair and include all the candidates, CNN, will you please update with Kucinich's statement? Thank you.

http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/?q=node/29584

Kucinich: Assassination of Benazir Bhutto Represents Dangerous Moment For The World
Submitted by davidswanson on Thu, 2007-12-27 15:17. Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 27, 2007) — U.S. Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich (D-OH) issued the following statement after learning of the death of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Bhutto was killed in Rawalpindi, Pakistan in a suicide attack following a campaign rally.

“This is a very dangerous moment for the world,” Kucinich said.

“Benazir Bhutto represented a courageous effort to bring principles of liberty to Pakistan. She was truly dedicated to the people of Pakistan.

“The United States must change its policy direction in the region. It must stop adding fuel to the fire.”

Kucinich met with Bhutto several times over the years in both Washington, D.C. and New York City.

Someone asked where the Ron Paul supporters were…

We are here, listening, and watching. Although, as many have said, this is not a time to promote your candidate.

This is a devastating loss for Pakistan as well as another reason for the U.S. to invade the entire middle east.

You can all talk about how the candidates reacted–but let's be honest, the only candidate even talking about Pakistan before any of this happened was Joe Biden. I want a POTUS who knows what s/he is doing, not a Monday-Morning QB.

Benazir Bhutto – a highly educated woman whose influence on government was riddled by corruption and infighting, trying to regain power. Soung familiar?

Dr. Ron Paul has the most presidential and the best reaction to the situation in Pakistan. He stated facts and expressed his deep knowledge of history that has shaped what is going on over there and the middle east. Great job RON PAUL!

I simply shake my head reading all this "terrorist" phooey – like they are coming here next. Fact is – the Bush led US supports this tyrannical regime, has poured billions of dollars into pakistan, and she was executed not by terrorists (the ones so many nut job conservatives are so scared of) but by the government!

Let us hope dictator Musharraf is next.

Why should we get involved? Let Pakistan sort out its own problems. I have no interest in my tax money being sent there and no interest in American troops being sent there. Let's just stay OUT!

This is not so much a terrorist attack as a political assassination dressed to look like a terrorist attack.

What about statements from Kucinich and Gravel?

I'm not sure how this woman was a hero. She supported the taliban in afghanistan and made it a safehaven for other terrorists, like the ones who killed americans. why is everyone so saddened by her death? maybe she became a better person afterwards, but isn't it too late? after all, she has contributed in the deaths of thousands of people.

This is a very sad and shocking event indeed. This is why we need to put an experienced individual in the White House. I really don't understand why people insist that experience is not important. Obama and the rest of them can only react like all of us, as shocked by-standers. Hillary Clinton, on the other hand, actually knew Benazir Bhutto personally and had some sort of working relationship with her. . I guess, for me, this reiterates the great assets that Hillary brings to the table that no other candidate can. She has actually met with a great number of foreign leaders and engaged in diplomacy on various levels. I think this brings back to light the importance of electing someone who knows what they are doing. There are so many unexpected events around the world that we need someone who is experienced enough to know how to react them and what to do, as well as someone who has already established themselves in the global arena. She is, after all, the most admired woman in the world for peets sake!

It is not invincibility that drove Ms. Bhutto to go to a political rally. It is her courage and belief in democracy. This is a very sad day for democracy.

The ball is now in the hands of the people of Pakistan.
They have to continue to fight for democracy if they want it.

Clark Lowery,

Obama suggestion makes no sense. Any strike against Pakistan will only made the country more extreme, not less. Unless you are talking about a complete invasion and decade of nation building like WW2 Japan. Whenever a country is strike by any factor, it only boosters the anti-factor. When we got involved in the Korea War, we made North Korea hated us more, not less. When we got involved in Vietnam War, the North Vietnamese also hated us more. When we fought against Saddam Huessin in 1988, Iraq switched from Pro-US to Anti-US and Saddam was able to assume more power. Keep in mind during the Iraq-Iran conflict, US was more leaning toward toward Iraq, and Saddam Huessin most admired president is Ronald Reagan.

Let just imagine what would happen if America is attacked by another country? Let's just random pick … say France. Let's just say France made a military strike. What do you think will happen within the US political spectrum? The Pro-French politicans will be lose power and the Anti-French politicans will win. There is no reason a French attack on US will make US more Pro-French, and there is no reason a USA strike on Pakistan makes it more Pro-America. If you have to stike, you have to strike hard, you have to completely conquror the country and rebuild the nation from ground up, like WW2 German or WW2 Japan. However, you have to ask yourself, is that what you are willing to scarfice and is that what Obama really mean — I seriously doubt that is what he meant.

Kristy Sanborn,

Actually Hillary Clinton was a strong support for both the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. She voted for both of them. She retracted her support for the Iraq only in the beginning of 2006. Prior to 2006, she was porbably the most hawkish Democratic senator regarding the Iraq War (beside Joe LIeberman). I mean as late as in 2005, she stil insists US troops need to stay in Iraq to finish the war and that any timeless for withdraw is irresponsible. To this day, she has yet apologize or retract her senate vote supporting the Iraq War — something Joh Edwards did.

I am no supporter of Clinton nor any of the Democratic candidates. However, I would not call her weak. She has a very hawkish history. My concern for her is really about: conviction. I do not see conviction from her, which is why I am a supporter for Senator McCain.

Richard

Benazir Bhutto had true greatness. What a loss. Her murderers are truly evil. Let us hope and pray for peace and freedom for Pakistan and for the world.

We must acknowledge that our foreign policy has greatly contributed to the instability that made this act possible. NO doubt many in America will seize on this to assert that the solution is more American intervention. Our wars only strengthen those whom we fight, weaken our friends, and leave us isolated and hated in the world. Her killers have said she was targeted because of her pro American affinities. Let us hope and pray that Pakistan does not succumb to Islamic radicalism but if it does let us correctly understand why and not repeat our mistakes.

I am a Ron Paul supporter

Benazir Bhutto had true greatness. What a loss. Her murderers are truly evil. Let us hope and pray for peace and freedom for Pakistan and for the world.

We must acknowledge that our foreign policy has greatly contributed to the instability that made this act possible. NO doubt many in America will seize on this to assert that the solution is more American intervention. Our wars only strengthen those whom we fight, weaken our friends, and leave us isolated and hated in the world. Her killers have said she was targeted because of her pro American affinities. Let us hope and pray that Pakistan does not succumb to Islamic radicalism but if it does let us correctly understand why and not repeat our mistakes.

I wish CNN, or other news media outlets, would detail the Islamic and, specifically, the Pakistani version of a funeral ritual.

Objections might be raised saying this kind of story might seem to be an advertisement for Islam, but I don't think so. Tactfully done, this might help bring some understanding of their culture and religion. And understanding leads to peace or, in case of last resort, defense.

Now more than ever, a stand must be taken for freedom and democracy. It would be all too easy to escalate the violence, but cooler heads MUST prevail. War and chaos in Pakistan is the last thing the world needs right now.

The world lost a great woman today, and her life should be honored by pursuing her ideals of a democratic and peaceful Pakistan.

I believe that eloquence is something very powerful and in that regards I strongly believe that Sen. Biden, Sen. Clinton and Sen. McCain were by far the most eloquent speakers about this tragedy. This is a day where we all should be very aware of our own mortality and our need to reflect and admire the courage of everyday people doing extra-ordinary acts. for this woman to take the stand and to continue to fight for what she believes is the right thing even if it meant her very life is an act very few of us could ever follow. I believe one way to honor ourselves and the memory of those who fight for freedom is to vote, we have an election that is very important and we ALL should do our part to ensure we elect a president that will make a difference in the world and at home. I will vote for Sen. Clinton, however it does not matter whom you vote for as long as you vote. these are unique times in our history we need to rise to the challenges of the world and meet them head on. I urge you all to take the step to register, to listen to the candidates openly, to understand their message and to excercise your ultimate freedom right and to vote.

In my opinion, today was not an act of terrorism, but an assassination.

Speaking of moderation, also in my opinion Musharraf is the exponent of moderation, but without corruption and also without submitting the country to the American military complex, neither to the Islamic fanatics. Musharraf has two fierce enemies: the Islamic extremism and USA.

Benazir was the one sacrificed by the US today and I think she knew the risks she was confronting, but I am sure that her close relatives were not prepared for this family tragedy.

Just this morning, CNN quoted Hillary as saying "…Her death is a tragedy for her country and a terrible reminder of the work that remains to bring peace, stability, and hope to regions of the globe too often paralyzed by fear, hatred and violence."
This is contrary to how many times Hillary and numberous other democrats has said that the republicans in America are using 'fear' of terrorists to justify the war in Iraq.
"regions of the globe", aren't we in America a region of the same globe Hillary now speaks of being TOO often paralzyed (by fear) by terrorists?
Its not the Republicans trying to instill fear in America, its the terrorists and the crimes they commit.
And what about what Hllary said about "work that REMAINS to bring peace, stability, and hope" to these regions?
Work?
Its war.
And how many times has Americans read where Hillary did NOT support this war?
Too many for me to feel comfortable with her being our President.
Now that Bhutto has been assassinated, it makes me wonder if reality has set in on some Americans yet?
Like this stuff REALLY does happen, and there is really a need to end it, and even if it means war, it has to be done.

Mike Huckabee:
"I am deeply troubled by the news accounts this morning of Pakistani opposition leader and former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's assassination in a suicide attack. This is devastating news for the people of Pakistan, and my prayers go out to them as we follow developments regarding this dire situation.

"The terrible violence surrounding Pakistan's upcoming election stands in stark contrast to the peaceful transition of power that we embrace in our country through our Constitution. On this sad day, we are reminded that while our democracy has flaws, it stands as a shining beacon of hope for nations and people around the world who seek peace and opportunity through self-government."

I'M SORRY… DOES ANYONE BELIEVE THAT HUCKABEE ACTUALLY WROTE OR SAID THIS…. ?REALLY…

"Why use an article about Bhuttos death to post vitriolic, negative slurs against ANY candidate?"

I say this with the utmost respect: because our foreign policies and "War on Terror" propaganda is ruining our democracy and Constitution and the democracy and constitution of other countries.

After Musharraf declared emergency rule, suspended the constitution and jailed thousands of lawyers and Supreme Court justices in the name of the "War on Terror,"
the U.S. is providing them with billions of dollars in "aid" – aka our hard-earned tax dollars.

Bhutto's voice was the voice of Truth just like Ron Paul's voice is the voice of Truth now in our country. Please watch Ron Paul in the debates, for he is the only candidate who truly "protects and defends the Constitution."

Peace be with you!

I do not see or understand how anyone can make the case that Obama is right for the job of President with a straight face. Some of the posters who feel he is the most qualified to handle this situation are for sure living in a dream world. I know those posters are being delusional. Obama has never met this woman (Bhutto) and has not met personally many of the world leaders. So, it is just unbelieveable that those posters would feel Obama can handle these types of situations in the world.

The 'he will change the world' mantra is old and is not at all convincing when issues like what happened to Bhutto occurs around the world.

Obama is too green to handle these situations. Hillary, McCain, Richardson, Biden, and Dodd are the mature experienced adults who have world stature.

the three pakastani candidates was united in offering the pakastani people a choice of direction and politics as well as which leader they felt would serve thier country best. obviously terrorist, extremists had other thoughts, the far east, middle east , asia and africa are so over populated, with people as well as radicals, which life means nothing to, nor are they responsible for thier actions, it makes one wonder if it was taliban, islamists, or muslim jidashs that wanted to dis rupt the process of peace. the western world should wake up to the fact that those people are hell bent on causeing problems for the whole world, what is it going to take to wake the western nations up to the fact that the only solution is to take the whole lot of them out.thier only intention is to bring the whole world into thier way of life where thier clerics rule everyone and everything.

The Last Leap
It was all the kind gesture of President Musharraf who must ensure his face look gloomy in public for some time. Mr. Bush should not pretend that he does not know who the real mastermind is. The ally of the fight against terrorism is the biggest terrorist. Benazir and his family knew the risks very well. It was only the run against time. Unfortunately Benazir lost in the last lap. Death leaped upon and threw a rattled nation back to oblivion where nobody knows if there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Musharraf is at his ruthless best. But sadly the plots are similar to the ones in Sidney Sheldon paperbacks. He had to create a matrix by which the outside world should feel that it is Al Qaida who can attack any where and any time it feels so. There is no stopping to that. It is a double game. First the outside world will be sympathetic with Musharraf for the attacks within Pakistan and give all its monetary and other support to Musharraf and treat him as an ally for the international fight against terrorism. The other benefit is very close to the heart of Musharraf: he can use the name of Al Qaida to kill anybody inside Pakistan. He is a maverick in espionage/ war games.

Look at the time span he took to create the scenario in Pakistan. He created an inner circle within ISI and Army who are power crazy elites. They would be acting on his insistence. But again here the trick was”left hand should not know what right hand is doing”. He started to make people believe that his life was at risk from terrorists. That their dear leader is also vulnerable! He started to fabricate plots to blow his own vehicle in 2002-3. The Bombs would explode just after his vehicle would leave the scene. Any way the vehicle would be bullet proof and there would be electronic jammers. He would fabricate plots to have blasts near his residence but he would not be harmed. In this process he knew well that some of his own army/ ISI personnel and common people would die. But that was indispensable to make the scenario look more as a natural attack. He will address the nation time and again about these terrorist attacks and keep a nation under fear psychosis so that people would think him as the protector and comply with him in his support to USA with their stop terrorism agenda. That way he dragged a whole nation from 9/11/2001 till late 2007 when people started thinking about democracy. Now it is time to use the blanket of Al Qaida to eliminate his adversaries who thought of reviving democracy in Pakistan. Poor Nawaz was bundled out like a toy and sent back. Benazir dared and entered Pakistan. She was attacked in her first home coming rally. The first attack was a mis hit. It did not matter much to Mush that 136 people died in the blast. Then the tricks of a season espionage master. Let her shed her fears. Let her participate in election when she will be an easy target. Poor lady some how knew in the back of her mind that there is some thing in the dark waiting for her. It was just a run against time. Before the end she failed in her attempt. Mush won. The election in Jan 2008 is farcical now. In any case Musharraf might use the situation as serious law and order problem to impose Emergency again. He simply needs to plot three to four serious blast cases killing minimum 100 people in each. Among the victims there should be good number of police and army personnel no matter ISI men also would do.

Mr. Nawaz: do not worry because you have time till things cool down and the world lose memory of Benazir’s death. Till that time you may have to speculate about the plots that might be targeted at you. By the way I think for people like Nawaz and Imran it is already a Burmuda triangle. There is no exit.

Though we Indians felt bad during Benazir regime for her shadow war against India, we always adored her and respected her as the pioneer to have brought democracy back to Pakistan. We were nostalgic about her as the Bhuto clan. For Pakistani people she was the greatest leader. May God rest her soul in peace. My deepest condolence to her family at this sad juncture.
For Pakistani brothers and sisters: Awake and take the last leap! What for you are cocooned? Stop the Juggernaut. In any case you there is death in either side. Better to fight and die with a hope that the juggernaut might be demolished.

Giuliani is a joke.

Never been to Iraq.

Wouldn't serve on Iraq study group.

Placed the emergency center in the world trade center after it had been attacked.

Firefighters didn't have radios they needed and Rudy won't accept blame.

Workers weren't warned about the toxic air.

The head of the 9/11 commission Tom Kean endorsed McCain over Giuliani.

Giuliani said he won't go to Iraq until the violence calms down.

He is a wimp. How in the world is he considered an expert on foreign affairs like Joe Scarborough says. He has never been to Pakistan in his life of met the leaders there.

Rudy is also unelectable. Rudy saying he is electable is another lie just look at the polls.

THE CORRUPT LEADERS OF THE MOSLEM WORLD.
KIND ABDULLAH OF SAUDI ARABIA
PRESIDENT HOSNI MOUBARAK OF EGYPT
PRESIDENT BASSHAR AL ASSAD OF SYRIA
KIND ABDULLAH II OF JORDAN
PRIME MINISTER AL MALIKI OF THE SO CALLED IRAQ
TO NAME A FEW

The Last Leap:
It was all the kind gesture of President Musharraf who must ensure his face look gloomy in public for some time. Mr. Bush should not pretend that he does not know who the real mastermind is. The ally of the fight against terrorism is the biggest terrorist. Benazir and his family knew the risks very well. It was only the run against time. Unfortunately Benazir lost in the last lap. Death leaped upon and threw a rattled nation back to oblivion where nobody knows if there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Musharraf is at his ruthless best. But sadly the plots are similar to the ones in Sidney Sheldon paperbacks. He had to create a matrix by which the outside world should feel that it is Al Qaida who can attack any where and any time it feels so. There is no stopping to that. It is a double game. First the outside world will be sympathetic with Musharraf for the attacks within Pakistan and give all its monetary and other support to Musharraf and treat him as an ally for the international fight against terrorism. The other benefit is very close to the heart of Musharraf: he can use the name of Al Qaida to kill anybody inside Pakistan. He is a maverick in espionage/ war games.

Look at the time span he took to create the scenario in Pakistan. He created an inner circle within ISI and Army who are power crazy elites. They would be acting on his insistence. But again here the trick was”left hand should not know what right hand is doing”. He started to make people believe that his life was at risk from terrorists. That there dear leader is also vulnerable! He started to fabricate plots to blow his own vehicle in 2002-3. The Bombs would explode just after his vehicle would leave the scene. Any way the vehicle would be bullet proof and there would be electronic jammers. He would fabricate plots to have blasts near his residence but he would not be harmed. In this process he knew well that some of his own army/ ISI personnel and common people would die. But that was indispensable to make the scenario look more as a natural attack. He will address the nation time and again about these terrorist attacks and keep a nation under fear psychosis so that people would think him as the protector and comply with his in his support to USA with their stop terrorism agenda. That way he dragged a whole nation from 9/11/2001 till late 2007 when people started thinking about democracy. Now it is time to use the blanket of Al Qaida to eliminate his adversaries who thought of reviving democracy in Pakistan. Poor Nawaz was bundled out like a toy and sent back. Benazir dared and entered Pakistan. She was attacked in her first home coming rally. The first attack was a mis hit. It did not matter much to Mush that 136 people died in the blast. Then the tricks of a season espionage master. Let her shed her fears. Let her participate in election when she will be an easy target. Poor lady some how knew in the back of her mind that there is some thing in the dark waiting for her. It was just a run against time. Before the end she failed in her attempt. Mush won. The election in Jan 2008 is farcical now. In any case Musharraf might use the situation as serious law and order problem to impose Emergency again. He simply needs to plot three to four serious blast cases killing minimum 100 people in each. Among the victims there should be good number of police and army personnel no matter ISI men also would do.

Mr. Nawaz: do not worry because you have time till things cool down and the world lose memory of Benazir’s death. Till that time you may have to speculate about the plots that might be targeted at you. By the way I think for people like Nawaz and Imran it is already a Burmuda triangle. There is no exit.

Though we Indians felt bad during Benazir regime for her shadow war against India, we always adored her and respected her as the pioneer to have brought democracy back to Pakistan. We were nostalgic about her as the Bhuto clan. For Pakistani people she was the greatest leader. May God rest her soul in peace. My deepest condolence to her family at this sad juncture.
For Pakistani brothers and sisters: Awake and take the last leap! What for you are cocooned? Stop the Juggernaut. In any case you there is death in either side. Better to fight and die with a home that the juggernaut might be demolished.

all this talk about what did so-and-so say or not say… enough!

we have a president right now to didn't have any foreign policy experience and look at where we are today.

please please please — all of you people who say that President Bush needs to learn from history… all of us need to heed that same advice!

hope? change? where will the slogans take us? how will they help the next president lead America to finding her place in the world?

Does anyone else believe that about 90% of the political candidate supporters that post these comments are more then likely Shills for that political campaign.

Not "innocent" "well meaning" citizens.

First, I am saddened about Bhutto's tragedy. She was a very popular politican and very pro-western and pro-democracy. Second, John McCain response is thoughtful and measured. In light of this tradegy, Obama inexperience in international affairs is clear. Early in the campaign, he has openly said he would unconditionally meet with Iranian leaders, and he would also invade Pakistan. Those were ridiculous comments. We have never invaded an ally, let alone a nuclear armed ally. We supply our troop in Afghanistan via Pakistan. Afghanistan in a inland country, and we needed Pakistan harbor to supply our troops in Afghan. Has Obama looked at a map before? Among the Democratic presidential candidates, I believe Joe Biden is the most experienced and wise. It is a shame that he is not a front runner. He has served the Senate for over 34 years thru 6 presidents. He has served as chairman of the judiciary committee and is the current chairman of the foriegn relations. It bufffers me that Senate Clinton claims she is the candidate with the most experience.

This has got to be a joke – McCain, Giuliani, Clinton, and freaking Romney get entire politicalticker stories devoted to their reactions, but the reaction of Sen. Biden – the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the ONLY candidate who spoke out forcefully about the crisis in Pakistan before today – is just given a few lines in a general article on the topic?

Isn't this the time to listen to what Biden has to say, regardless of whether he's polling well or not?

David, I am glad you have solved the assasination so quickly. There have been threats from jihadists and other extremists as many news agencies are reporting. Flip Flop McCain who has run so far away from his previous immigration stances as well as the Bush tax cuts.
Glen, you using this forum to show your religious bigotry is offensive.

It seems as though alot of people have opinions about all of this and what it could mean. But the truth of the matter is that this women took a huge risk to reestablish herself and the radicals got her. Yes it is sicking to think that the more things change the more they stay the same throughout the world. And lets not forget also, that in this country we experienced that same kind of radical thinking and behavior when John F. & Bobby Kennedy were assassinated. But I also think just like another that PM Musharif or what ever his name has elliminated the compitition. So much for investing in Democracy in the middle east! It's just not going to happen. Mushrif is a dictator just like Sadam Hussin and one day we may have to go after HIM!!!

Bhutto's death. Just another sign of reality to all the liberals and bleeding hearts in this country who continue to outcry war. As long as the world is cosummed with religious fanatics/barbarians, there will never be peace. These individuals couldn't give a rip about your life or anyone else's unless you're willing to surrender to their beliefs and form of government. This human trash needs to be annihilated before there will ever be a chance of peace. Sweet talk and wishing are only going to produce more world "body bags" and filter your fantasy.

Bhutto was a courageoius woman simply trying to improve the conditions of her country. Sensless murders by islamic radicals is likely to continue for a long time or until they make all of the middle-east into islamic states,thus their goal

This is an absolute tragedy to the country of Pakistan and it's people. Hopefully as Edwards, Dodd, Biden, and (I hate to agree with him) Rudy said a complete and transparent investigation is necessary to bring these people who caused this to justice. To provide stability to the country and proceed with the elections as soon as possible.

David, Gilbert Arizona – who else today blows themselves up and countless innocent victims if it's not terrorists? Isn't this going through everyone else's mind? Yes, no one has come out and claimed responsibility for this attack yet, but please – save your hate for another day. This is a time to join in mourning the loss of a woman who tried to do the best she knew how to help her country and certainly a time to condemn and reject this type of hatred of others. If we can't do it as Americans we are no better than the extremists.

This is a very sad story.. may she rest in peace.. politics aside!!

God rest her soul, and God help us as the fight for peace and freedom continue.

This assasination is a real tragedy for the people of Pakistan. The democratic movement is in its infancy, and this will surely have a negative effect. If only to dissuade other candidates with "radical" ideas of how to improve their countries government.

I wish people didn't take advantage of this moment in time to push their own candidates in forums like this. My feeling is that like those pushing his agenda here, Obama is a victim of this countries need for change. While he may look and sound the part, he's just as good an actor as Fred Thompson. When it counts most, I doubt he will be able to stand up and make a difference, dissapointing all of his acolytes.

Yes, he voted against the war, but how many Americans were in agreement with the President at that point of time? If we knew who Obama was back then, Americans would have said he was spineless. Like most things in life… It's all about the timing.

Colin Powell in 2008!

Another one Obama got rite, wake up people! Terrorist in Pakistan are a very serious treat! The close mindedness of pass presidency as well as Hillary Clinton gets it wrong every time. New Ideas, New Leadership and Real change!

Obama 08

David, Gilbert Arizona – who else today blows themselves up and countless innocent victims if it's not terrorists? Isn't this going through everyone else's mind? Yes, no one has come out and claimed responsibility for this attack yet, but please – save your hate for another day. This is a time to join in mourning the loss of a woman who tried to do the best she knew how to help her country and certainly a time to condemn and reject this type of hatred of others. If we can't do it as Americans we are no better than the extremists.

Barack's response to the death of a leader has a human touch to it, Hillary's response is all about political and policy consequences. I must admit, I am a Republican who will not vote for either one of them in the general election, but I think Barack comes across as much more of a "mensh" (actually should be spelled Mensch).

Hind sight is 20/20. Foresight is as good as a weather prediction. Candidates and commenters alike need to read and heed.

God bless Pakistan and help them through their time of need. God bless the world and help them through this as well.

I totally support Ron Paul, and was glad to see that either he didn't make any comments about Bhutto, or CNN didn't report on them. I hope it is the former.

Ron Paul is the only anti-war Republican, and I'm happy he didn't use this tragedy to make a campaign speech.

Ron Paul 2008 – Hope for America!

Posted By Ben, Nashville, TN : December 27, 2007 12:26 pm — I'm curious to see where Barack Obama said "I want to bomb Pakistan and Iran".

Sorry I had posted the link but for some reason it is now erased?? Try googling – bomb Pakistan Iran Obama – and click on the Chicago Tribune article.

I further appologize if I have offended any posters – it was not my intention to dishonor Ms. Bhutto's memory. I was merely trying to get all the little lambs to open their eyes and see their chosen candidates warts and all… (at the time of the original posting the only ones whose message was printed were Giulianis and Obamas… the others were added later)

BTW I'm leaning Ron Paul — so PLZ everyone stop turning this into a Hillaryhate frenzy or Obamalove fest

Can't some of you leave politics out for just one day???????

Hillary Clinton is probably the one most touched at a personal level by Mrs. Bhutto's death of all the presidential candidates. They both bonded while Hillary was First Lady and kept in touch over the years. They each gave each other political advice and supported each other's aspirations to lead their respective countries.

My condolences to Mrs. Bhutto's family and the nation of Pakistan.

I see nothing wrong with Hillary's comments, I don't think you need security clearance to meet heads of state your husband, as president is negotiating with.

Yes I do know about the curruption, despite this

Benazir was a great leader

It is a failure for Musharraf. He should set a deadline for bringing murderers to justice, or resign. The USA has more to gain by the absence of Bhutto. Bhutto's murder will be forgotten soon.

Huckabee and Romney both oppose "secularist" political leaders like Bhutto and neither of them can now oppose her assasination. Unless of course they're flip-floppers. Pro-secular abroad,but anti-secular at home? Support Al-Qaeda or oppose it?

What a sad day for the people of Pakistan. Benazir Bhutto's death is a sad reminder that those who wish peace in the world are murdered by the worst of humanity. Whether it is Jesus, Dr. King or Sadat, it is shameful nonetheless. She paid the ultimate sacrifice so that her people could have a free and democratic Pakistan. I hope that Musharaff had nothing to do with this atrocity. God help us all.

We all have different opinions about how to solve these important and troubling problems that we face today. I do believe that everyone that has posted here wants the same thing. A true sense of peace around the world, and an end to the humanitarian, political, and economical power that some groups of the Islamic world seems to have today. As we face these trials, the only constant is our humanity and humility. We can find a way to share this precious place with groups from different ideals and religious backgrounds. I can fell the anger rise from this tragic event, and I try and temper it, I try and find a way to see a solution that doesn't end in more blood spilled. I don't have the answers, but I truly believe that if we can find any common ground that over time this divide that we see in our own country and around the world will slowly disappear.

To CelinaB, Norcross,Ga

Pakistan is a friend Of US in the fight against terrorists.You don't invate such countries or verbally threat their leaders. That is very un-diplomatic. There may be problems, but you have to solve them through discussion and persuation through other means. You don't go and attack friends just because you are mad. That's the kind of inexperience Obama showed. Check also the troubles he caused by attacking Austarlia and China.Obama seems to think that If yell at everyone around the world, that would make him look tough. Instead, He's making an exhibhition of himself by angering US allies, and showing how undiplomatic he is.

She may be outraged, but she never listened to Bhutto anyway… she called Obama naive, Bhutto did not. Bhutto stressed the important of fighting terrorism in Pakistan. Then again, it was Hillary who voted in favor of the Authorization for the Use of Military Force in Iraq legislation back in 2002. And it was Barack who said we should be fighting in Afghanistan and Pakistan alongside their governments to combat terrorism. Hillary has a history of being full of it.

Bhutto's Reaction To Obama's Comment on Military Force

QUESTIONER: You may have covered that, what I was going to ask you next, but let me try it anyhow.

We had quite an interesting, and indeed still are, mini-debate here politically between two — initially two of the Democratic aspirants for presidents, and it spread now across party lines. And Barack Obama kicked it off by saying, "If we have actionable intelligence about high-value terrorist targets and President Musharraf won't act, we will." That's a direct quote from a recent speech of his. What is your reaction to that?

BHUTTO: Well, I wouldn't like the United States to violate Pakistan's sovereignty with unauthorized military operations. But the issue that I would like to stress is that Barack Obama also said, if Pakistan won't act. And that's the critical issue, that the government has to act. And the government has to act to protect Pakistan's own serenity and integrity, its own respect, and to understand that if it creates a vacuum, then others aren't going to just twiddle their thumbs while militants freely move across the border.

Democracy is not free. Are you aware that since this happened oil prices are almost to a new record. This is simply an assassination and as long as we force democracy on every living person this will continue to happen. I don't think it's an act of terror, it's someones way of expressing their beliefs.

PLEASE STOP CALLING HER A HERO
I LIVED IN PAKISTAN WHILE SHE WAS IN POWER
SHE SANCTIONED ETHNIC CLEANSENING!
HER HUSBAND RANSACKED THE COUNTRY!
I AM SAD SHE IS DEAD.
BUT PLEASE HAVE SOME PERSPECTIVE

And a huge sigh of relief is heard from the Bush Whitehouse and CIA headquarters as Bhutto's death virtually guarantees continued rule of Pakistan by a military dictatorship whose intelligence infrastructure will continue to wage war on Islamic fundamentalists (while at the same time being continuously infiltrated by them).
Bhutto's death insures status quo in Pakistan—all war, all the time.
Just the way Dick likes it.

As usual you partisan idiots are using this blog to take pot shots at candidates or the other party other than your own, friggin' sheep.

If you are going to ignore the sacrifice and real bravery that this woman showed and just bicker as it were any other blog, that is too bad.

This is not a good thing for our country and you supposed geniuses would rather act like children.

All of the candidates are going to put their spin on it as if the didn't respond, they would get hammered.

Would this then be a good blog for me to ask, "when they catch some of these people, should they torture or waterboard them to get information on the ENTIRE group or to FIND out if other ATTACKS are planned"?

That would be wholly inappropriate.

RIP to a truly honorable woman.

Why did CNN feel the need to highlight Giuliani's stupid comment? Yes, Rudy, we know you're great at standing at a podium and showing false bravado. That doesn't mean you're going to be President.

Who in this world believed she would not be killed? After the first attempt, they surely would continue, till they got her. We have ALWAYS backed Dictators, so how is this different. We talk democracy but it is not so.

Those of you who are using this to support your candidate are just bad people. Let the world recover from the shock and let the world mourn. Wait until it's more appropriate to talk about the political impact.

I won't bother saying what candidate I support here. I'm just disgusted with so many comments here.

Obama Was Right….Hillary Wrong Re: PAKISTAN

With todays terrible announcement of Benazir Bhutto's assasination in Pakistan, one can't help but be reminded of a recent Democratic debate in which Hillary Clinton literally laughed at Barack Obama's statement that the United States should concentrate on the unrest in Pakistan even if it meant sending U.S. troops to the Afgan/Pakistan border where the Taliban, al-queda and other terrorists are camped. Hillary did her pompous, smirky laugh stating that Obama wants to 'talk to our enemies (Iran) and attack our allies' (Pakistan border). But as events unfold in the region we are learning more and more of just how disasterously wrong she and our foreign policy have been. We are supporting a crazy dictator (Musharaf) who we have given millions of dollars to….who has point blank told us that he will not go to the Pakistan border to address the true terrorists because they 'made a deal'. It doesn't matter that crazy Mu has weapons of mass destruction and is probably hiding Bin Laden in the border region. And to Hillary…..this is all just fine. Is this the great 'experience' that she boasts having ? Now, as we watch the turmoil increase in the Pakistan region Hillary will surely state that we need her 'experience' to handle the situation when in fact, it is this very mindset or experience that is leading America and the entire world toward catastrophe. Face it Hillary…..You are wrong…Obama was right. Oh…..and need I mention that the recent findings show that our 'enemy' hasn't had a weapons program for years ? But Hillary voted to basically crush Iran……..wrong again Hill. And to top things off….you'll probably stay supportive of Crazy Mu ! With 'experience' like yours…..who needs enemies ?

Greg 'Peace Song' Jones

Actually, Senator Obama did say in 2004 that U.S. strikes against Pakistan might be necessary to prevent extremists from gaining control over a nuclear weapon. Perhaps this cowardly assassination will finally cause our leaders to realize we are already dealing with an extremist in Pakistan. Continued support of the existing Pakistani government should not be tolerated by the American people – let us hope that at least one of our current presidential candidates steps up and speaks out against President Musharraf.

um HELLO! She supported the Taliban in Afghanistan!

I am also with Dave from Gilbert (11:14am CST posting). There seems to be a great rush to blame this on a nebulous "terrorist", and that may well prove be the Case, but politics in Pakistan is a rough business and the ISI (as mentioned before, like our CIA but under even less control) has been known to play hardball…

So I will invoke a 48-hour rule for myself–see what other evidence turns up in the next 48 hours before I rush off and start pointing fingers.

we shall see.

There will be more assasinations and killing in the Near East and the Middle East due to the failed leadership policies OF Disaster George Bush at home in the U.S. and in the World.
The current government and the military junta of pakistan received over 10 Billion U.S. Dollars from us, to become more corrupt. There will be no Democracy and no political freedom in Pakistan. The corrupt Parvez Mushaffar and his military tugs are looting all the money, why should they let Bhutto, Sharif or other to take power and introduce the so called "Democracy advocated by the U.S. and the western powers. Current days Pakistan in worse than Saddam Hussein's Iraq before the war. The major difference betweet then Iraq and current Pakistan is the Nuclear power that Pakistan possesses at the present time. Plus, of course, our free Dollars that has and is corrupting the military bosses surrounded around Parvez Musharraf. What happened to the so called "NOBLE CAUSE" of Disaster George Bush when he send our young boys to die in Afghanistan and Iraq. What happened to the Billions of U.S. Dollars wasted and are being wasted in the name of Democracy and Freedom ?
For almost five yaers WE, THE MIGHTIEST AMERICA HAVE NOT ACCOMPLISHED ANY TANGIBLE RESULTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST AND THE NEAR EAST. How could Disaster George Bush and Dick Cheney sleep at night when our boys are being killed and our money wasted in the name of FREEDOM AND DEMOCRACY.
President Karsai and President Musharraf are modern days mercenaries kept alive with our hard earned U.S. TAX PAYERS Dollars. So much waste, so much corruption will have no effect whatsoever because our PRESIDENT FAILED IN HIS NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL POLICIES.
We just would like to see the day when Disaster George Bush will have the courage to stand up and say to US, THE AMEIRCAN PEOPLE AND TO THE WORLD, "I HAVE FAILED AND I ABUSED ALL THE TRUST INVESTED IN ME"
AMEN.
A Republican from Florida.

People are accusing HIllary of using her statement politically, are YOU KIDDING ME MORONS? hers was sincere, look at the repugs already trying to draw up images of a scary world to bring fear about, Hillary did no such thing, you guys are blinded by your love for either the Messiah Obama or the dumb rethugs. And altough this is a great tragedy, there is obviously an element of politics/foreign policy crises to this…

She embraced the Taliban & was removed from office twice on corruption charges….it's saddening that she died, but she is no hero.

Posted By Justin, Havelock North Carolina : December 27, 2007 11:12 am

Kind of how Dick Cheney and the Bush administration embraced the Taliban when there was talk of building an oil pipeline to the Caspian Sea?

I'm sure all of the republican presidential candidates will look to bring to justice people who did this, as soon as they find them in Iraq.

And to all the knuckleheads who think we need war, war and more war to fight the extremists, here is a clue…

…all the people who have changed this world for BETTER have been peaceful people

Gandhi, Martin L. King, Malcolm X (during the last years of his life), John Lennon, etc etc etc

…all the people who have changed the world for the WORST have been war loving liars and schemers….

Hitler, Stalin, Genghis Khan, Napoleon, etc etc etc

Now let’s all say it together, especially you conservatives (couch commandos)…

Peace is good and war is bad…

No, no, it’s not going thru to you conservatives.

Too bad, like all warmongers, their reigns have been brief, and your time just about ran out, now, conservatives step away please and let the sane people drive the bus.

To John in New York – do you really think that Hillary just shook hands and had tea with Bhutto? Please don't be ridiculous. Disagree with her policies, fine. But, please – anyone that has ever listened to Hillary speak about any issue whatsoever, realizes that she doesn't just shake hands and have tea with people.

@ Independent in NH

Why use an article about Bhutto's death to post vitriolic, negative slurs against ANY candidate?

You either don't care or are missing the point entirerly.

The article is about this brave woman's tragic and senseless death. Not to get your candidate elected.

Posted By S Williams, Tampa : December 27, 2007 10:58 am

——————-

What candidate is Independent in NH promoting? Why is everyone so overly defensive?? A poster can regret the death of a brave and courageous woman while pointing out that not all candidates are as they appear…

YET — HAVE YOU EVEN READ THE COMMENTS WHICH WERE LEFT ON THE WOMAN WHO IS DYING ARTICLE:
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/24/dying-voter-confronts-white-house-hopefuls-about-health-care/#comments

OR EVEN WORSE ON THE UNDECIDED VOTER IN NH WHOSE BROTHER WAS KILLED IN IRAQ:
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/21/for-one-nh-voter-its-between-mccain-and-obama/#comments

Where was the OUTRAGE when those vicious "slurs" were posted???

EVERYONE needs to stop blaming everyone else for the mess that America is in today and figure out how to work TOGETHER to make it better!! Doesn't seem like the GOP or the Democrats are willing to do that. What about the Ron Paul supporters? I'm losing faith in America…

Today's events in Pakistan remind us just how big of an issue national security is to our country.

This issue has unfortunately taken on less importance in recent months and it should now return to the forefront of our discussion.

Without a secure country, the quality of our healthcare system, education system and financial markets mean very little.

I'm curious to see where Barack Obama said "I want to bomb Pakistan and Iran". I have closely followed his presidential campaign, and while I've heard him speak out about the fact that what happens with a child in Pakistan impacts us here in the U.S., I've never heard him say that he wants to bomb Pakistan or Iran. I've heard him say that he would consider using targeted airstrikes in Pakistan to route out Al Qaeda operatives there IF PAKISTAN DOES NOT ACT. I've heard him say that he'll put strict limits on military funding for Pakistan. But I've never heard him say that he'll bomb Pakistan. Please tell me more about this.

J of California

Why think in bits and cut out the most important issue Obama brought out?

And that's the critical issue, that the government has to act. And the government has to act to protect Pakistan's own serenity and integrity, its own respect, and to understand that if it creates a vacuum, then others aren't going to just twiddle their thumbs while militants freely move across the border.

The reason we are fighting the wrong war is because current leaders dont focus on the bigger picture. Fighting terrorists means going after them wherever they are, not looking for weapons of mass distraction and then pursuing a war that shifts attention completely from epicenters of terrorism

I knew, even before I read it, that Guliani would spin it to a FEAR FEAR FEAR campaign opportunity. He is a 9-11 OPPORTUNIST who only wants to continue MORE OF THE SAME. Scare the crap out of the US Citizen and say "I am the only one who can protect you", that is ALL he has.

I cannot believe she has been assassinated. This is so terrible…a big slap in the face of democracy. I hope there is a FULL SCALE investigation into her death. I'm not going to rush to any conclusions, BUT –If Musharraf was found to be involved in any way, the US should cut off ALL ties to this country. State sponsored terrorism is just as bad as your run of the mill terrorism.

"Some say the world will end in fire;
Some say in ice.
From what I've tasted of desire
I hold with those who favor fire.
But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To know that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice."

Robert Frost

She was a brave woman, she knew what she was up against, and she went back anyway.

This was a political assination, and had nothing to do with 911 or terrorists, how quickly people resort to "terror" to explain things.

I think that Joe Biden gave the best statement. He is one of the best foreign policy experts we have. He has been saying that Pakistan is the real worry for a while now.

Please Musaraff behind assisination.
He wants to remain president forever

This is so sad to see die like this. This day in Pakistan will never goten in term of democracy. This day is second to a day that Martin L. King Jr. was assesonated.

"Bhutto's death has absolutely nothing to do with the U.S. war on terror"

David, Gilbert~AZ, I actually think there is a distinct similarity in the assassignation of Bhutto and those which seek to kill Americans and other Westerners.

The killers (of Bhutto) and terrorists both seek to silence dissenting voices.

They both look to terrorize everyone else not killed by their actions.

Their view of government is defined by their extremist religious views. Any threat to this view is eliminated.

They care less for the sanctity of life than the pursuit of their cause. Innocent men, women, children are slaughtered "for the cause".

While those killing Ms Bhutto may not wear the uniform of Al Qaeda, they share intolerance and willingness to kill for their cause. I'd call them terrorists.

We saw the assassination of Benizir Bhutto but not see the assassination of democracy in Pakistan as well as the other countries. A leader of a third world country has died, but democracy must live in the whole world. Free and fair elections must also be held as soon as possible in the Pakistan. If it will happen then we can say that the death of Benizir Bhutto is not the death of democracy in the world.

Talk about "Girl Power"

from an earlier post by a fervent Obama supporter!!

"I believe he was sent to us by God and we need to push for him Now!"

–Just look at what happened the LAST time we elected a President who believed that God spoke to him and admitted that "I'm driven with a mission from God"!!

Maybe Huckabee and Obama out to get together and run as a team = I believe they're both accidents waiting to happen

PLZ NO HUCKABEE OR OBAMA '08

More proof that Biden is far superior to the others in not only his depth of foreign policy and government knowledge, but also the depth of his rolodex and experience. This guy has already been Secy of State for years. Edwards' response sounds like an 8th grade book report. I'm a Hillary supporter, but Biden makes me feel the most comfortable because of his mastery of world affairs.

We saw the assassination of Benizir Bhutto but not see the assassination of democracy in Pakistan as well as the other countries. A leader of a third world country has died, but democracy must live in the whole world. Free and fair elections must also be held as soon as possible in the Pakistan. If it will happen then we can say that the death of Benizir Bhutto will not be the death of democracy in the world.

You're right David. At a time like this it is best to blame our presidential candidates, and the martyred herself!! She was well respected, loved and reverred in her country. Her opposition was that of vengeful extremists whose sole purpose is to bring tyranny and fear to the hearts of the people.

Bhutto was more than a person, she reflected an ideal. You can kill the person, but never her ideas.

Why is it so hard for news media to understand that many, many people want to know: WHAT DOES RON PAUL SAY ??

After Reading the comments by some of the candidates it appears that Joe Biden and John McCain understand the situation better then the others.
I would feel safe voting for either.
The rest have to step aside when it comes to international affairs.

i'm with you on this one david from arizona

be mindful of the candidates who would use this tragedy to further their campaigns.

The world is saddened by her death-truly. She was determined in her struggle to bring equality and humanity back into the political conversation of her country. This is one more example of God's lack of intervention in our lives on earth–evil is many times victorious!! People need to realize..politics will not solve the worlds problems. The answer is not in politics–but in individual thought and action…and in the realization that belief in God and tje exercise of good works on earth in God's name is the only cause worth fighting and dying for.

Well, I hope John Edwards reminds everyone that the war on terror (here and abroad) is all fake…Smoke and mirrors stuff to scare everyone into thinking that the world is a dangerous place when in fact we all love one another. It's like someone building a giant mansion but starting their campaign in front of the ruined N.O. home of someone he has done nothing to help.

God bless the lady. She was braver than anyone I know and better than most we have to count on.

A true martyr of the cause of democracy. It is unlikely Musharraf was directly connected to this; surely, even he realizes this will NOT be good for him. However, the ISI goons that helps keep him in power that routinely aid the terrorists sure ARE involved. Both the terrorist AND the ISI need to be reined in harshly. Sharif needs to go underground, or he's next.

This is phenomenally dangerous to the world, given the nuclear weapons that Pakistan has.

Darn we need Obama like we need a hole in the head. The poster was correct in saying the goofball diss everyone else for voting for the Iraq resolution to find WMD, but he neglects to tell the country he wants to bomb Iran….

Maybe Mitt Romney and his merry band of Mormons can posthumously baptize Mrs. Bhutto. She was a wonderful woman and a hero of peace and democracy. Scurge like Romney shouldn't even speak her name.

What you see is what America is faced with ;utter fanatical barbarians! The same ilk came to our shores and killed 3000 of us on 911 and they want more of the same! There is no such thing as bring the troops home and ignore ,hide from or negotiate with these less than humans. Wake up America ,the liberal democrat way will not get us anywhere but more terror and death here and is a threat to our very existence!

Bhutto is a HERO and a reminder to us all that democracy is not free. We should all be in mourning for Bhutto and condemn this act of violence.

CNN isn't repeating words that they published on their own website. Search CNN news for "bhutto Commentary No time for dictatorship" without the quotes. There, Bhutto herself stated, "I have long claimed that the rise of extremism and militancy in Pakistan could not happen without support from elements within the current administration…They want to stop the restoration of democracy at any price…The ruling party is an artificial, political party created in the headquarters of the Inter-Services Intelligence (Pakistan's equivalent of the CIA) during the General Elections of 2002. Its core support comes from the political partners of the military dictator of the '80s, General Zia al-Haq, who empowered the most radical elements within the Afghan Mujahedeen who went on to morph into al-Qaeda, Taliban and the Pakistani militants of today."

If Bhutto had taken power, it's likely that she would have found information leading back to 9/11

Hillary Clinton is using this tragic moment to brag about her so-called foreign-policy experience.

Mrs. Clinton says "I knew Mrs. Bhutto." They may have just shook hands and sipped tea at a ceremonial function when Mrs. Clinton was first lady.

It has now been reported that Mrs. Clinton had no security clearance to be involved with sensitive foreign policy matters.

She needs to stop exaggerating. It will drag her down in the general election- just like it did for Al Gore.

Why are people so against Obama.He stands for a lot of good things.Are you afraid this country will be ran better than it has been recently?TRhis article was not even about him,it was about Bhutto.Why do you people always want this country to constantly not run smoothly for everyone, not just a set group of people.Bush,is a war mogul,why did you not try not to votw no then and get everyone else to vote no?

I am a Pakistani who has moved to the US. And I am in a state of shock at what has occurred. But I support Barrack Obama's stance on the north west frontier province. His approach is sensible. Anyone who criticizes it is fairly uninformed. I have lived in that country and realize Obama is the best democratic candidate to deal with the areas.
Of the statements issued I think McCain's and Obama's are the ones that resonate most with me.
They seem to be the most heartfelt and deal with a sense of togetherness… as opposed to Guliani's and Hillary's who seem to be self serving and trying to connonize their stump messages in a statement.
It makes me sick.
I want to be part of America's democracy. And as an educated person who has lived all over the world and chosen the US as a home, it seems amazing to me that people are willing to support Hillary Clinton.
I hope I get a chance to vote for Edwards, Richardson, Obama or McCain.

This tragic event is enormously sad, but also completely predictable. I had discussed this likelihood with my colleagues in Islamabad over the past several weeks, and everyone (with the posible exception of Bhutto herself and her entourage) predicted that this would happen with a 90+% probability level. While she may have spoken of the risks involved, people like Bhutto (supported by their huge egos) actually believe in their invincibility, and do not really think that this could actually happen to them.

I feel certain that the Karachi prelude only reinforced this false confidence in Bhutto. Sadly for her (and even sadder for the innocents around her that were hurt/killed) this was not the reality.

BHUTTO: Well, I wouldn't like the United States to violate Pakistan's sovereignty with unauthorized military operations.
Posted By CelinaB, Norcross, GA : December 27, 2007 11:05 am

You think you are helping Obama by posting above? Read the first sentence in your posting. It says it all. It ridicules Obama's Childish comments of US invasion.

Oh yeah, this 2004 story…yeah, that's right. Geez, what was Obama supposed to say, "I'll just let terrorists have their way." I think in 2007 Obama has pretty much made the case that he's ready to lead. As he said in that story from 2004 that he'd talk with them first, then apply diplomatic and economic sanctions and then strike if need be – as a last resort. Is this position vastly different than anyone else's? No. It's exactly the policy I want my next president to adhere to.

Yes, yes, Giuliani, yes.

People who did this need to be brought to justice, maybe we'll elect you and you will keep looking for for them in IRAQ, right.

…and yes yes yes, Pakistan is a democracy…

What a joke Giuliani is, just go away please.

How nice to hear all the candidates making statements. The simple fact remains – whether Musharraf is an "ally in the war on terror" or not is unimportant; Musharraf is a dictator and the US should NEVER have dealt with him. Dealing with Musharraf is, in my view, the same international foolishness as was used when the Allied Powers attempted to appease Adolf Hitler.

This is a sad situation, and should not be used as a political advantage to anyone. Having said that I can't help but thinking that next US president should be a strong experience leader to deal with these serious situations.

I don't know why I'm surprised that some of the candidates would politicize the death of this beautiful person. It's shameful.

Bhutto was not assassinated by Islamic jihadists, as Flip Flop Romney wants everyone to believe. Bhutto's death has absolutely nothing to do with the U.S. war on terror. It was under the Bhutto administration that the Taliban in Afghanistan gained most of their power. She viewed the Taliban as a stabilizing element in the neighboring country.

Benazir Bhutto was assassinated by Pakistani political elements who did not approve of her out spoken views regarding the Pakistan People's Party. Her family has faced these type of tragedies from political opponents and people with ties to the Pakistan military for most of Bhutto's life.

Benazir Bhutto knew full well that she was taking a very huge risk when she returned to Pakistan from exile.

The "General" our government has been supporting appears to be eliminating the competition. Heck, sounds kind of like when we supported: Saddam Hussien. Why does our government pick the most corrupt and criminal power figures to support. Why is that?

To "Independent in NH":
Your comment showed your ignorance. Please read Obama's orignal statement before commenting. We need leaders who have are wise and courageous. We also need citizens who spend the time to read and think.

It is at times like this when I am ashamed to be a member of the human race.
There is only one thing wrong with this planet and unfortunately it is us!

Once again thank you RELIGIOUS fanatics
for bringing us to our basest instincts.

We must realize that we are one people
existing here and now and that we are all connected by our humanity or our horror.

It is as simple as this – if we do not learn the beauty of living in the way of love, this planet will cleanse itself of us and reshuffle the DNA and
try again.

We are at the point of choice, the last option, the singularity approaches.

Will we choose wisely…?…

She embraced the Taliban & was removed from office twice on corruption charges….it's saddening that she died, but she is no hero.

We need Barack Obama. He is the only candidate who can speak to these foreign nations w/o arogance. We need someone wg the world together and that person is him.
I believe he was sent to us by God and we need to push for him Now!

We must realize we are fighting the middle east and they don't respect women and now is not Hillary's time no matter who her husband is. Barack is the only one who can put an end to this mess

Senator Obama is the only candidate who called Iraq a dumb war and was against it from the beginning. Yet the other candiates including Hillary Clinton and John Edwards both voted yes on Iraq leaving Pakistan as a haven for these terrorist. We need to turn the page of the Bush, Edwards and Clinton mistakes.

Vote Yes OBAMA 08!!!

I think they are overusing the word terrorism. This is an assassination, right?

This is such an unfortunate incident that might take Pakistan back a couple of years.

This is extremely sad news and our hearts go out to the Pakastani people.

It is unfortunate that "Independent in NH" is using this tragic death to twist Senator Obama's positions. It is true that he is on record of not ruling out the use of force to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. It is also true that he would go after Bin Laden in Pakistan IF there was actionable intelligence AND the Pakastanis couldn't get it done themselves.

These positions are a far cry from your misleading and exaggerated distortions.

Clinton and her operatives want to have it both ways(both ways, uh). One day they falsely labelled the man as a muslim, and now they are again falsely claiming he wants to bomb a muslim country.

Hillary is a suspect, wanting things both ways.

Obama is an idea whose time has come.

Obama 08

This is what Benazil Bhutto said about Obama's willingness to take out terrorists in Pakistan

BHUTTO: Well, I wouldn't like the United States to violate Pakistan's sovereignty with unauthorized military operations. But the issue that I would like to stress is that Barack Obama also said, if Pakistan won't act. And that's the critical issue, that the government has to act. And the government has to act to protect Pakistan's own serenity and integrity, its own respect, and to understand that if it creates a vacuum, then others aren't going to just twiddle their thumbs while militants freely move across the border.

This blood and its consequences falls entirely on the idiot and those that support him!

Had the idiot finished the job in Afghanistan, not only would he have avenged those that attacked us, he would have brought stability to the region.

Instead the idiot heads off to Iraq! While the cat's away, the Taliban and al Qaeda simply start regrouping. Not only in Afghanistan but in Pakistan also. So how does the idiot address this? He sends more money to the Pakistani dictator with no pressure to do anything! Oh I forget, he did pull a Larry Craig and told him to take his uniform off.

Stupid, stupid, stupid! Bush isn't interested in Democracy or America, he's only interested in how much defense contractors make.

It'll be interesting to see how the pro-Bush sheep spin this one. I say impeach.

When did Obama threaten to bomb Iran? What nonsense! In regards to Pakistan, please do a little research. We already allow our troops into Pakistan if they are chasing terrorists. Obama has said that if we have actionable intelligence on a high-value target (Bin Laden) and Musharef does not act on it (because he's looking the other way) then we'd act. Hillary has basically said the same thing once the foreign policy experts came down on Obama's side. Another flip-flop for her. No doublespeak from Obama. he's been firm on his foreign policy from day one. A little research would have revealed that to you.

Right on "Independent in NH" glad you saw that.

This is definitely not good. Hopefully, Pakistan won't go into Civil War.

Things are so screwed up in this world.

@ Independent in NH

Why use an article about Bhutto's death to post vitriolic, negative slurs against ANY candidate?

You either don't care or are missing the point entirerly.

The article is about this brave woman's tragic and senseless death. Not to get your candidate elected.

This is so upsetting. Democracy must persevere in the Middle East, moderation must prevail. The ideological conflict that is fought in every nation took a dark turn today. We must support democracy and fight against those who think they can destroy popular sovereignty and freedom with bombs and bullets. Benazir's legacy will be in the seemingly eternal struggle for democracy around the world.

America needs to make genuine peace with the Pakistan people, not their strongmen. At the moment Bush's knee-jerk policies (read billions of dollars) are not helping Pakistan, or world peace

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7158815.stm

It is time to turn the page, in foreign policy with fundamental changes in our way of thinking- Obama has bold policies to reset standards on foreign policy

I'm impressed with the words of McCain and Clinton. They both express their outrage and sympathy very well, while also sounding very presidential.

Bravo John and Hillary.

I'm a Democrat but Mcain's response is the most thoughtful. You get the sense that he is responding as a statesman, not a self serving presidential candidate.

Senator Obama has already threatened to bomb Pakistan AND IRAN!! He's another War Monger ( hiding in sheeps clothing and using doublespeak to gain votes.)

Vote NO to Obama

Her death is a real tragedy…but undescores the fact that Musharaf is doing things wrong…. he was not fighting terrorist when he declared the emergency rule last months, he was fighting his opponents….

well, Mr. Musharaf….now is your turn to demonstrate the world that you are REALLY against terrorist and in favor of a free and democratic Pakistan…

YOU OWE IT TO HER!!!!!

The religion of peace strikes again. I can't wait to see how quickly the rabid libs on this site shift blame to the US and President Bush.