December 28, 2007
Posted: 01:30 PM ET
Sen. Hillary Clinton says she regrets that Sen. Barack Obama's camp

Sen. Hillary Clinton says she regrets that Sen. Barack Obama's camp "would be politicizing this tragedy."

(CNN) – Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton on Friday accused the camp of rival Barack Obama of politicizing the death of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

"I just regret that [Obama and his chief strategist] would be politicizing this tragedy, and especially at a time when we do need to figure out a way forward," Clinton said Friday in an interview with CNN's Wolf Blitzer.

Her comments followed criticism from Obama's campaign implying that some of Clinton's foreign policy decisions raise questions about whether she should be president.

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Helena Montana   December 29th, 2007 5:49 pm ET

Clinton and Obama seem to be vying with each other to see who can most outdo the GOP in mindless, ignorant pandering to the lowest common denominator. while simultaneously insulting the intelligence of the electorate They both sicken me.

AN, Fairfax, VA   December 29th, 2007 10:50 am ET

"If we did not go into IRAQ We would have captured Osama a long time ago and this war will be long over. If we dumped all the military in Afghanistan instead of IRAQ al-Qaida would have been crushed a long time ago, with Osama either being dead or captured"

====================

YOU DON'T KNOW THAT…NO ONE KNOWS WHAT LIES DOWN THE ROAD NOT TRAVELLED!

Doing what you suggest may have resulted in just the opposite. A large American presence could have resulted in a repeat of the Soviet experience in Afghanistan. We could have been bogged down in a blood bath. A large US presence could have been a rallying cry for Islamic militants to merge on Afghanistan, where fighting in mountainous terrain was the Soviet's undoing. It is just shallow, persumptuous and naive to conclude the war on terror would be over under the poster's scenario. It just might be that diverting the focus to Iraq from Afghanistan was a good thing. Perhaps it was good strategically to have educated Iraqis experience the effects of al Qaeda in their country on a daily basis. The surge appears to have allowed the Iraqis the opportunity to oust al Qaeda from Iraq, thus handing the Islamic militants a huge defeat. Only history will tell, not you, nor me.

Kim, Dallas, TX   December 29th, 2007 10:34 am ET

Hillary is also politicizing it by responding. Her bad decisions helped lead the US into a pointless war that distracted us and allowed Al Quaeda and the Taliban to move from Afghanistan in Pakistan where they now have a nuclear arsenal getting closer and closer into reach. She voted for a war in Iraq and it was a disastrous that shows an utter lack of judgement and being prepared (she didn't even read the intelligence report to be informed enough to vote) Anyone paying attention knew what the Iraq war was ahead of time. Bhutto's assassination is a direct result of Al Quaeda and Taliban focusing on Pakistan while our eyes were off the ball. Worst foriegn policy decision in american history, she voted for it

Obama had the clear foresight to know what would happen if we went to war with Iraq. Even I was against going to war with Iraq. We were given faulty excuses, time after time. What we were told was that they were trying to build weapons of mass destruction and they were a direct threat to the US with the manipulation of telling us they were involved with 911. All of that proved to be a lie and then Bush made a new reason, let's rid the world of Saddam Hussein. Voting for this kind of nonsense is not showing true leadership; especially when what we really wanted was to go after Osama Bin Ladin. Acknowledging that this was a bad vote and a "dumb" reason to go to war, shows the leadership that I wish were running our country. We have seen the Bush administration run our country into the ground and voting for HIllary would be like voting to continue what we have been going through these past seven years. No thank you. If she ends up being the Democratic choice for president, I will vote Republican for the first time in over twenty years. Nearly every Republican candidate is better than having Hillary as president.

Mike, Houston, TX   December 29th, 2007 10:14 am ET

Hillary is the one who is using the assination as a poltical ploy. Having tea with Bhutto is not the "experience" the USA needs. If one is married to a heart surgeon for 35 years, I would rather have the heart surgeon operating on my, not the spouse.

Hillary, go back to Chicago, NY, Arkansas or wherever you decide to call home.

Chris, Middletown, CT   December 29th, 2007 10:08 am ET

I'm really asking here….Hillary supporters - what will it take - she is critical of Obama for "politicizing" Bhuttos death - many jump to her defense….then you see that her campaign did politicize this ….meaning another blahent lie….and somehow you guys will spin it for her….I find myself baffled by your defense of someone who so doesn't deserve it….she is a polarizing candidate - help me understand why you defend her - for this comment….for her (non) stance on illegal immigrants getting licenses….her support for war in Iraq….to her most recent "I never supported the war in Iraq" - and now onto her proposed 800 billion in entitlement spending….what happened to the party of JFK (ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country) - HRC is not the answer (unless the question was name a flip-flopper who tried to con the American people into a socialist healthcare system and made a run for president once)

alan St Louis MO   December 29th, 2007 6:28 am ET

If we did not go into IRAQ We would have captured Osama a long time ago and this war will be long over. If we dumped all the military in Afghanistan instead of IRAQ al-Qaida would have been crushed a long time ago, with Osama either being dead or captured.

No al-Qaida or NO Osama Pakistan would have never destabilized because of the masses of al-Qaida agents moving into the country and gathering new requites. Most of al-Qaida recruits are from the hatred of American western Christian empire occupation of Islam holly ground. There made up of Iraqis Iranians Pakistanis. The IRAQ war turned a small crime organization that got really lucky and inside help from the U.S. to make 911 happen. TO the elevation there a functioning government like the Americans were during the war for independence from England. They have droves of Islam joining al-Qaida and giving them millions if not billions in aid to fight the American imperialism. Islam view us as a occupation force to take their OIL vs. as Peace bringers.

SO WHO VOTED FOR IRAQ WAR. We should have only focused on Afghanistan and al-Qaida till they were wiped off the planet. Then focused on IRAQ. Instead we went in the middle east like a bunch of wild cowboys blasting and killing everything insight. Now we have the middle east in shambles. And al-Qaida running all over requiting and destabilizing the middle east countries that were stable prior to the Iraq war.
IF HILLARY HAS SO MUCH DIVINE experience where was it when she voted to support the Bush plan. Where was it when She voted yes for the Bush plan year after year after year after year. Where is her divine experience when she labeled IRAN as a terrorist country and gives Bush every excuses to wage a war with IRAN when he feels like it.

The people who pushed and voted for the IRAQ war. Even back then there was no evidence to justify it. They hoped after the invasion the evidence would spring up to justify the invasion. WELL we are all still waiting after 5 years of occupation why we invaded IRAQ??? The bringers of the Iraq war are also responsible for the tragedy for what is going on in Pakistan. Time to line em all up have them charged with crimes of illegal war. Hillary was part of the band wagon the one that Bush drove for the Iraq war and trying to justify a Iran war.

Start a war with IRAN LOL what insanity. We are 0 for 2 on middle east war. What?? we are going to make it 0 for 3. Enough is enough get Obama or Biden best yet both of em to clean the mess we are in. Hillary is not going to undue anything. All she going to do is keep the same and put up a new spin and smiley face to keep the status quo.

GO OBAMA and Biden

Obama has almost 3 times the experience in elected office then Hillary almost 6 years of elected office. The craziest Hillary has the most corpate donations from Corpates and foreign governments. She don’t have more foreign government experience she has most money from foreign government. If she elected who will get the most attention?? Don’t bite the hand that feeds you. YEP the corpates and china will continue to rule the Whitehouse. Because Hillary has rub the backs for getting her in.

Obama for 2009 he has the JUDGEMENT to fix the last 20 years of mess we are in. And has way more then 6 years in elected office. To quote Bill JUDGEMENT beats experience . Obama has more experience and a 100000 times better judgement then Hillary.

TS   December 29th, 2007 1:58 am ET

There is no reason to attack CNN - to me that is immature. There are lots of journalists with their own biases and if anyone has issues with individuals as to how they are covering an issue that is fair game.

Having said this I am not sure why people think Obama is ready to be commander in chief. This man does not have any real accomplishments and never had to deal with tough issues. He is a Senator at national level with one year experience with no accomplishments to speak of and has the audacity to want to be a commander-in-chief. Granted he might be better suited than the George W Bush but we have much better choices. Biden, Hillary, Richardson all have demonstrated accomplishments. Please dont let your own hatred for Hillary based on propaganda and your hate for her husband affect your reasoning power. As a country we will be better by learning about these candidates by going to their web sites and learning what they have to say even if they are trying to portray themselves in the best light. Let us stop glorifying Obama who is just another politician with charisma which is certainly a great attribute for a President. But that one dimension alone does not make him ready as evidenced by how he has been dealing with this Pakistan tragedy and other events.

ny, ny   December 29th, 2007 12:33 am ET

Isn't she the one saying, " Oh I knew her in 95 …", " I've told Musharaf …"? He asked her a serious question about her judgment and she wouldn't answer it. Instead she babbles with that irritating voice about how she talked to Musharaf and how she knew Bhutto. No wonder why she doesn't take questions from reporters and the audience after giving a speech, now that she got caught planting questions …

Rob, Albuquerque,NM   December 29th, 2007 12:20 am ET

Hillary thinks the public is stupid. 25% of them are because they believe her.

Robb, New York   December 28th, 2007 11:09 pm ET

Hypocrite Hillary strikes again, claiming Obama is "politicizing" the death of Bhutto. All I know is that every major news outlet had Hillary on touting her so-called "experience" in foreign affairs following the assassination. Yet she has the unmitigated gall to lash out against her top opponent in the Democratic race. Her condescension and arrogance knows no bound. The Democrats would be absolutely foolish to let such a polarizing, anti-social, chameleon candidate become their nominee for the presidency. It doesn't matter who the Republicans nominate… they will crush her in the general election in November.

A vote for Clinton is a vote for certain defeat. There's no guarantee, of course, that Obama or Edwards or any other Democrat would fare any better, but the Democrats would have a pretty good chance to win given the state of the nation. But why– WHY– would this party think that a candidate with a 49% DISAPPROVAL RATING NATIONALLY is the can't miss pick? Let me repeat it– a 49% DISAPPROVAL RATING NATIONALLY. Even if that means she would win the general election, what would that get us? Another president whom roughly half the country likes and half dislikes? Another president with whom the opposition would refuse to compromise with, and a president who would refuse to compromise with the opposition? How does that exactly CHANGE things here? Everybody wants change, right? So we're going to go from a Republican who can't get anything done to a Democrat who can't get anything done? What the hell kind of change is that?

Claude, Mesa AZ   December 28th, 2007 11:03 pm ET

Wolf Blitzer…please shut up and go home and take your Hillary dog with you. WE SEE THROUGH YOU!!!! WE WANT CHANGE< NT MORE OF THE SAME!!!! GET IT!!!

CS, Gerald, MO   December 28th, 2007 10:55 pm ET

Hillary is not Bill! Hillary is not Bill! 8 years of choosing flatware and dinnerware patterns, decor for the White House, hosting slumber parties and dinner partie is not experience relevent to running the most powerful country in the world. Her experience as a senator is of supporting the Bush administrations decisions to invade third-world-countries embroiling us in the mess we are in now. She needs to stop using her husbands experiences to prop up her house-of-cards. Sorry Hillary, you are not qualified to be the first female president; mentor under Nancy Pelosi and then run.

EDWARDS '08

Biheia Tillery   December 28th, 2007 10:36 pm ET

I gave you my comments 2 days ago.
You said my comments were awaiting moderation.
What kind of nonsense is that?.
Does that mean if you do not agree with the comments, you do not show them?

tina, ny, ny   December 28th, 2007 9:18 pm ET

Christina- Hillary can say that because she knew Butto. Obama doesn't so he is going around like cry baby and making allegations like a 5 year old. He is so stupid.

Johnny Kamara   December 28th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

America is the greatest country in the world,and her children are the bravest in the world.My quistion is are they brave enough to make history a real change SEN B OBAMA 08?

rrobert   December 28th, 2007 8:40 pm ET

Dear Cheryl from Oxnard,
If you are going to use current and former world affairs as points of debate or question, you must first learn the nature of your issues. The reason the Clinton administration did not push democracy in Pakistan was because the then leader of Pakistan during his administration was a dictator and we had no relationship with his governance because under George 1 we cut off relations with Pakistan because they were pursuing "nucular" capability and we know how the Bush's feel about anyone controlling nukes other than them. It didn't work, we alienated the younger Pakistani's with our arrogance and self rightiousness and now the younger members of that nation are anti-american. Haven't you been paying attention? The Bush's have alienated more nations from America by themselves than all of the other presidents in our history combined. If George the minor had more time he would probably bring democracy to Pakistan like he's doing in Iraq, but there's so little time left and so many targets, oops I mean, candidates for democracy the good old christian, republican way. Win their hearts and minds or blow their heads off.(That's called cynicism). After Iraq, Iran, then maybe Pakistan but don't forget about Palistine, then Syria oh,my!! I'm so excited.

Earl   December 28th, 2007 8:14 pm ET

It's too bad we cannot get our government back. I would bet that if a poll was taken 80% of American people would say that they hate politicians and the way they have run the United States into the ground. Not one of them has any concept about how most of the people of the U.S. are struggling to get by. If any one thinks government is for the people you had better wise up and see what has happened and is happening in the United States.

jake   December 28th, 2007 8:11 pm ET

F.Igwealor,
you just made my day on this issue!

here's what you wrote!
——————————-

Hillary for sure have traveled to more foreign countries than most of the other candidates, but we're not electing a president for a travel agency.

America needs a commander-in-chief who have demonstrated record of sound judgment.

———————————————

I mean if this was the case then I would instantly be president of the US without the need for elections..
I have been to:
Ghana, Liberia, UK, USA, Holland, France, Jamaica, India, Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Senegal, Sweden, Mexicao, Canada..etc..
WHAT A FOREIGN POLICY NUTS I AM!

Jeffrey, Arlington, VA   December 28th, 2007 8:10 pm ET

Right now, this is the mourning time for Pakistan’s Bhutto. It is inappropriate to discuss for these political matters at this time. We don’t need to hear political junks from those presidential candidates, especially for bad-mouth and hypocrite Hillary. It was tragic to see those corrupted mainstream US media putting big political shows for presidential candidates to speak out in order to grabbing their hopeful popularity supports. We the people don’t need to create another crisis which they already made. We want our US troops to get out of Iraq immediately and we must focus on monstrous wicked Al Qaeda terrorism that already created the mess on this planet. Osama Bin Laben is very happy for what US President misled the public. Forget about Iraq and Iran because those countries did not involve in 9/11 attacks – period! We need our domestic helps in our falter country such as free universal health care, free education, financial assistance, high-paying jobs and get rid of bloated overtaxing system with lobby supports. How could CNN’s Wolf Blitzer support Hillary for his wish?! That is a perfect example for Corrupted News Network. Shame on you, Hillary and CNN!

If you want to know more about the dark side of Hillary, check the website and you will discover the dark secret truth about her. http://www.tbrnews.org/Archives/a2798.htm She already attempted to cover up her archives from the public.

Mike Gravel is the man I will vote! Mainstream US media hated him and they often censored him because media were afraid of him to tell his truth to American people. It is heartbreaking because money buy the democracy! We want to change the system for people vote. The National Initiative for Democracy is a proposed law developed by The Democracy Foundation along with a plan to get it enacted by the people (not by the government and lobby) creating, for the first time, a government "by you, the people." Look at this website: http://www.nationalinitiative.us We want people to vote, not the government, lobby and media decide for their wishes. Hail to the underdog Mike Gravel!

bob   December 28th, 2007 8:08 pm ET

Although not mentioned in the writeup of Mr. Blitzer's interview with Mrs. Clinton a review of the tape will show that Mrs. Clinton suggested that Interpol (the International Police Organization) might be the right agency to conduct an independent investigation into the assassination of Benazir Bhutto.

Unless their mandate has changed, I don't believe Interpol is in the business of conducting these types of investigations. They help coordinate information flow amongst law enforcement agencies throughout the world, provide coordination of some services and provide training and are a very valuable organization.

I'm amazed that Mrs. Clinton, who holds herself to be so plugged into the international community, would make such an uninformed statement !

Reggie, Germany   December 28th, 2007 7:55 pm ET

CNN and Wolf Blitzer along with the "Best Political Team in the Business", with the exception of Bill Schneider, are fast becoming a joke.

What was that for a infomercial!!!! You supply Hillary with unlimited time to ramble on about how sad she feels it is that others are politizing Ms. Bhutto's death while she simutaneously brags about how well she and Chelsea were were known and respected by her. You then combine her impromptue remarks with a split screen showing her and Chelsea standing next to Ms. Bhutto and taking a walk with her to underscore her, "off the cuff comments!!!"

I find you and Hillary disgusting for stooping to such levels. You, Hillary and her supporter ( Evan Bayh) are the ones politicizing her death. Lets review the facts.

First! Evan Bayh at an event for Hillary reponds to the news of Ms Bhutto's death as follows:

“When there are unfortunate calamities like this, the Republicans [will say], ‘See. See what we told you? We have to have someone who’s strong to defend America at a time of concern.’ Well, Senator Clinton is strong,” he said. “And she’s experienced. And she’s tough enough to defend this country and do it in a way that’s true to our values, the civil liberties we cherish, and that’s one of the reasons why I’m supporting her.

Second Hillary takes the stage and say the following:

"I am so moved today to go to an event like this just as Benazir was doing, making her case with the people as to why she would be their prime minister".

Third:

Mr. Axelrod responds to reporter who, in light of Evan Bayh's remarks, questions whether Bhutto's assassination enhances claims that her [H. Clinton] foreign policy experience may make her more fit to serve as commander-in-chief."

AXELROD: Well, it puts on the table foreign policy judgment, and that's a discussion we welcome. Barack Obama had the judgment to oppose the war in Iraq, and he warned at the time it would divert us from Afghanistan and al Qaeda, and now we see the effect of that. Al Qaeda's resurgent, they're a powerful force now in Pakistan, they may have been involved — we've been here, so I don't know whether the news has been updated, but there's a suspicion they may have been involved in this.

I think his judgment was good. Senator Clinton made a different judgment, so let's have that discussion.

Stung by Mr. Axelrod's valid observation the Hillary campaign issues this statement:

"This is a time to be focused on the tragedy of the situation, its implications for the U.S. and the world, and to be concerned for the people of Pakistan and the country’s stability. No one should be politicizing this situation with baseless allegations."

Hmmmmm were they talking about Evan Bayh??? ….. Hillary??? …. or both?????

At any rate the whole thing come full circle with CNN and Wolf Blitzer fanning the fires of a CNN media created scandal by allowing the Hillary and Co to play the victim while getting 45 minutes of free air time to give their hypocracy credence.

CNN you and Hillary are both a disgrace!!!

Randy Ellis   December 28th, 2007 7:46 pm ET

I am so sick and tired of hearing about all this supposed foreign policy experience Mrs. Clinton has!!! All she has is photo ops is all. Getting your picture taken with someone is not experience!

Mario   December 28th, 2007 7:43 pm ET

Oh Clinton, Shut Up already, you were the one that did what you claim Obuma did. You arethe first one to flap your gums and point your finger at someone else. Who ever votes for you is voting for this country to go to hell. You and your loser husband need to leave this country, we are tired of you both. We can't see how you would any different than your fat husband. You call for change, what change? same people same crap. Just shut up!

Caroline   December 28th, 2007 7:26 pm ET

I am really digging Hillary, this woman will fight till the end. I don't undersand why some are bashing her because she bought air time. Hellooo???? This is called political campaigning. It's allowed. She is not the one who asked for 5 mins of air time. You Obama supporters should all be worried about his foreign policy experiece. Claiming in his speech today on the stump that Osama is somewhere in the WOODS between Pakistan and Afganistan. If he understood his geography, he will have known that there are no WOODS between those two borders but MOUNTAINS. This is the guy people want to trust as President at a time of war. No thanks.

Geri, Sacramento CA   December 28th, 2007 7:16 pm ET

Obama's in way over his head. I'll take Hillary's calm, intelligent, thoughtful approach any day to the jerky, jumpy, stammering Obama.
GO HILLARY!!

Jaime Scottsdale,AZ   December 28th, 2007 6:59 pm ET

One more thing. If Hillary would not have spoken after the fact, I could hear it now. Flip the events around. Now that would be a real interesting "ticker read."

HRC '08

Matt, California   December 28th, 2007 6:59 pm ET

Another amazing interview with Hillary. Hillary Clinton has the Strength and Experience to make real change happen. We don't need a President in times like these that needs on the job training. Another news article that showcases my point exactly. Obama has no experience!

Jaime Scottsdale,AZ   December 28th, 2007 6:52 pm ET

After reading all the above garbage, OPINIONATED and not FACTUAL, let's rewind the clock back 24 hours or so. Mrs. Clinton was asked to make a statement in regards to this tragedy and she declined. She responsibly made a statement about the tragic event knowing that it had no place in the US Political Process. Go back and review who connected this assasination with politics! I agree with you guys who say Go Obama '08…GO AWAY and STAY AWAY! Final thought: What are you Obama Freaks going to do when he looses? Leave the country? Good ridance. Hillary '08!

Bill Szmanski   December 28th, 2007 6:48 pm ET

Clintons , unfortunately not as smooth as her husband. though I must admit she does a remarkable job of taking out of both sides of her mouth. Anyway I would like to know what purpose it would serve and how it would benifit the United States to have an international investigation into the killing of a political activist from a foreign country struggling for power? Other than Hillary's own agenda (since it couldn't posibly be political)what ever that might be? It would not change a thing to say the least not to mention who really cares? anymore than who wins the ultimate fight on Friday nights. Finally you would think CNN would ask the queston, but then the show would end abruptly with a Clinton "I Dunno".

Mutee08   December 28th, 2007 6:38 pm ET

CNN is making things up to defend Hillary. Obama really scares you guys/gals doesn't he.

Obama '08

Bill Szmanski   December 28th, 2007 6:34 pm ET

Clintons a jerk, unfortunately not as smooth as her husband. though I must admit she does a remarkable job of taking out of both sides of her mouth. Anyway I would like to know what purpose it would serve and how it would benifit the United States to have an international investigation into the killing of a political activist from a foreign country struggling for power? Other than Hillary's own agenda (since it couldn't posibly be political)what ever that might be? It would not change a thing to say the least not to mention who really cares? anymore than who wins the ultimate fight on Friday nights. Finally you would think CNN would ask the queston, but then the show would end abruptly with a Clinton "I Dunno".

Nancy, Dallas TX   December 28th, 2007 6:34 pm ET

Posted by Sadhana Khan, and deserving of a re-print:
Obama is little substance, all hype. The key to his success: a freshness, a lack of record to run on, the constant repetition of simple feel-good platitudes that lull listeners into a sense of trust and induce in them a yearning to believe. No wonder Barack Obama is so popular among denizens of Hollywood like Oprah: they certainly have an eye for those who can create an image, can generate a buzz that compels others to suspend their disbelief, and who can induce a trance-like stargazing. But the fact is that Barack Obama does have a record to run on and its a record of vote dodging and triangulation. Barack Obama talks about the audacity of hope… but how about the audacity to show up and vote.. and not criticize others over resolutions you conveniently missed while campaigning

Chris Dodd, Joe Biden, and Hillary Clinton have all been much better senators than Barack Obama. They have been serious, substantive lawmakers who have worked effectively across party lines. Obama has some accomplishments under his belt, but many of his colleagues believe that he has not bothered to master the intricacies of legislation or the maze of Senate rules. He talks about independence, but he has never quite bucked liberal orthodoxy or party discipline. When you consider two candidates for one job, you compare their resumes and weigh their latest experiences most heavily. Whoever distinguishes themselsves with their work ethic and garners respect amongst their colleagues is probably the best qualified for the job they seek. If Obama's colleagues feel he is an opportunist who is more about using his present job to build his resume rather than to actually work for substantive change, then he is just hype, and he is unqualified for the Presidency.

Emily, Alberta   December 28th, 2007 6:32 pm ET

Why is it milking a tragedy to talk about meeting someone personally who sadly is no longer with us? Do you honestly think Obama wouldn't have done the same if he had ever met Bhutto? The guy milks everything to his advantage.

Keith   December 28th, 2007 6:31 pm ET

Puh-lease.

Blitzer, you are well on your way to securing a position in Clinton's Ministry of Truth.

Susan Hicks   December 28th, 2007 6:30 pm ET

I wonder whether those at CNN really realize the damage they have done with their viewership in terms of respect and loyalty to their network. CNN used to be my number one news source (and I am a news and political junkie), but now I rarely turn it on.

I am sick to death of the skewed reporting in favor of Hillary Clinton, and how she is forced down our throats as the candidate we supposedly want. The fact is, she is so polarizing that even most of us diehard Democrats know we can't have her in the White House. We would be further damaging our beloved country to continue this game in Washington.

Hillary Clinton can go back to her Senate job tomorrow and it would be a huge relief to the majority of America. And her immature "Gotcha" campaigning style is a complete turn off. I can't wait for the primaries to finish so she can go away.

CNN, you're walking on eggshells. What a shame in an election year.

Christian, Tampa FL   December 28th, 2007 6:08 pm ET

When Hillary starts her Bhutto tribute by saying "I've known Benazir for a dozen years" and emphasizing such, it certainly seems that she is taking the opportunity to highlight her own experience. That sounds like politicization to me.

maine mom   December 28th, 2007 6:06 pm ET

Wow, what a setup! Axelrod responded directly to a political question with a direct and accurate answer. Then CNN pulls the response out of context and turns it into an "attack" on Clinton. Then Clinton plays the victim card (again!) with CNN's cooperation. This is outrageous!!

Spin it as you try, CNN, the vote to authorize use of force in Iraq was devastating to the fight against al queda. Clinton IS partially to blame for the biggest foreign policy disaster in the last 40 years. She should admit her negligence as it is well documented that she never even read the classified National Intelligence Estimate before casting her vote. She should also admit that she was wrong. We have had enough of tough talk, poor judgment, and arrogance with the Bush Administration without more from Hillary.

Larry Buchas, New Britain, CT   December 28th, 2007 5:58 pm ET

A vote for Hillary is a vote for a Republican. Just check her negativity numbers. These are substantially higher than any other candidate. Hillary keeps changing her personality to reflect the latest poll and that doesn't fool smart voters.

Obama, Dodd & Biden are the only Democrats capable of bringing the independent voters to the Democratt side.

rdierker   December 28th, 2007 5:56 pm ET

We neglected to secure Afghanistan, and the unguarded Afghan/Pakistan border region became a terrorist headquarters. The whole region became destabilized, meanwhile Hillary follows Bush into a unnecessary war in Iraq. There is a connection between Hillary helping lead us into the wrong war, and the middle east crumbling.

This is not political, this is an example of how someone's supposed "experience" has led to disaster after disaster after disaster.
If Hillary had listen to Obama's suggestion to go after terrorists in the lawless border region of Pakistan/Afghanistan then Bhutto might still be alive. Bhutto even defended Obama's comments after Hillary attacked him. Everyone like what Obama had to say but Mushariff who is slowly becoming a dictator and Clinton, who's family assumes they dictate American politics. Bhutto would have endorsed Obama because he had the courage to speak the truth in a world of people who think they are entitled to power.

Sorry to point fingers, but its true. Having the judgment and foresight to say that going into Iraq would ultimately lead to a unstable Pakistan is something that only one candidate said in the build up to war, and that candidate was not Hillary. In fact her vote to go to WAR IN IRAQ helped distract us from the real threat to democracy, and here we are.

Gil - California   December 28th, 2007 5:51 pm ET

Hillary is doing what she claims the Obama came did, spinning this to her so called advantage.

Thankfully, the beginning of the end of the political season is upon us. 6 days until the voting starts.

Lois   December 28th, 2007 5:46 pm ET

The way in which the Sen. Hillary Clinton and Sen. Barak Obama handled the Benazir Bhutto assassination was like day and night. Sen. Clinton was very calm and collect, presidental like adding a personal touch. Sen Obama seemed cold not knowing how to react.

Mary Sacramento, CA   December 28th, 2007 5:40 pm ET

Wait, I thought she was ready to "hit the ground running." So what are her plans and ideas??? The only one I heard was to have Pres. Bush talk to Musharaff.

Judy Pare   December 28th, 2007 5:39 pm ET

I can not believe that Wolfe Blitzer is featuring Hilary Clinton and her views on foreign policy. Clearly Joe Biden is the candidate with the most foreign policy experience and yet the press continues to ignore him. In my opinion he is is the only electable candidate. Hilary has the hate factor, Obama is suspect and unexperienced, Huckabee is too religious, Only Joe Biden has Presidential stature, It is time to offer more to the American people or republicans will be in the White House again.

Jarhead   December 28th, 2007 5:39 pm ET

Hilary is not only using this to score political points here at home–she has the gall to try and tell both the President of Pakistan and the United Nations what they should do next, and how they should do it. This from a woman who could not keep her husband in line???? And she wants to lead our nation???

Malcolm, Huntsville, AL   December 28th, 2007 5:33 pm ET

One of the first political tie-ins I saw immediately after the announcement that Bhutto had been assasinated was a story on another network that "Hillary and Chelsea Clinton had met Bhutto". If ANY one was trying to milk the tragedy for political gain, it was the Clinton camp and they're trying to deflect blame by pro-actively projecting their behavior onto Obama, knowing full well it was only going to be a matter of time that the Clinton camp would've been accused of politicizing the Bhutto assasination.

Nathan   December 28th, 2007 5:28 pm ET

Please, I am officially an anti-Hillary Democrat, but what Axelrod said was way out of line and for any Obama supporter to state otherwise shows how utterly devoid of character they are.

Obama should just simply distance himself from Axelrod and move on.

Ann   December 28th, 2007 5:20 pm ET

Yes, Obama and his adviser tried to use the tragedy to make a stupid and untrue connection.

The vote on Iraq and the strategy to bring democracy in Middle East and fight terrorism are surely related, but one does not imply the other . The Iraq chaos is not due to the initial decision to eliminate Saddam Hussein. That was not the bad decision. Similar decisions have been made in 1989 when Eastern Europe countries got rid of a number of dictators. Those were good decisions!! The difficult part is building a democracy in a country that lived too long under dictatorship. And America failed to do it right in Iraq and lost the starting focus.

If Hillary is responsible for something, she is responsible for the first part… to vote for attacking Iraq and get rid of Hussein, which was in the spirit of democracy that America is all about. There is no blame here.

The second part has been based on the wrong strategy of this administration. During his campaign, Obama insisted stupidly that Hillary was wrong, by using the current situation in Iraq and now the Bhutto assassination to make his point. Hillary has nothing to do with this part of the story. Obama also voted consistently for funding the continuation of the war, so he is responsible too for the second part which was the real failure. Overthrowing Saddam Hussein's regime was not a mistake.

I trust Hillary's judgment and she will be a very good president. When she will be in charge, she might be more cautious and practical.. as women always are.
Hillary’08!

Emily, Alberta   December 28th, 2007 5:11 pm ET

Given that Obama's camp started this and he went on to politicize it last night in his interview with Wolf Blitzer, the only outrageous political whining came from him in spades. He wouldn't even let Mr. Blitzer finish a sentence, kept cutting him off just so he could talk about how electable he thinks he is. If anyone has no shame it is this wannabe.

John   December 28th, 2007 5:06 pm ET

Barack verbally opposed the war as a state senator in Illinois. I wonder how differently it would have been if he was actually a U.S. Senator at the time. I do wish that he would offer information about the type of changes he plans on bringing to Washington and how he is going to do it.
Hillary really isn't politicizing this topic. I also think that Hillary saying the name Benazir Bhutto is hardly "bragging" about her relationship with Bhutto. It is a fact that they knew each other. Do you instead want her to say…that women I personally knew but I can't say her name because people will accuse me of politicizing her assassination? She is just answering questions about the Barack campaign trying to make desperate headlines. If she didn't answer the questions then you guys would be jumping all over her for not answering questions. Some of you Barack people sound like you have as little experience making a point as he does in foreign affairs.

Ryan, New Jersey   December 28th, 2007 5:05 pm ET

"We do need to find a way forward." DUH!!! THAT MEANS TALKING ABOUT WHICH ONE OF YOU NOMINEES HAS GOOD JUDGEMENT WHEN IT COMES TO FOREIGN POLICY!!! My God, every hour Clinton's camp says something that just makes no sense on its face. It's all doublespeak and nonspeak with her. How can you not politicize the assassination of a powerful POLITICAL figure! It's politics stupid!

D. Skinner   December 28th, 2007 5:04 pm ET

Can someone tell me why HRC get's a 45 minute interview with Wolf and none of the other candidates got the same opportunity. Wolfe interviewed a few of the candidates last night for about 5 minutes. You wonder why people say CNN is bias towards the Clintons. Well there is your proof.

Cantrell   December 28th, 2007 5:00 pm ET

And of course she is not politicizing the death.

BKK, Atlanta, GA   December 28th, 2007 4:55 pm ET

Linking Bhutto's death with Hillary's voting is ridiculous. If it is then it is also Obama's fault for supporting the funding for war in iraq. He should apologize to HRC and fire axelrod like how HRC did earlier, that is true leadership. Obama is becoming a joke day by day, acting like I am above all and whatever I do or say is always right. In the begining I thought Obama was legit leader, not anymore. I will be voting HRC or Edwards if they are the nominee, or will vote a republican in GE if Obama is the nomineee.

David   December 28th, 2007 4:55 pm ET

It is unfortunate that Hillary is using again this tragedy in Pakistan as another ploy to boost her campaign. Take that mask off Hillary……You just lost my vote….

Steve   December 28th, 2007 4:53 pm ET

Oh Boy, Wolfe does not know what "a high road" means. Senator Clinton took a road, but it is far from being high. You provided Senator Clinton with this long air time with nothing but a campaign speech. Is Wolfe prepared to give the same air time to Obama and Edward or has he, in effect, chosen the Democrat's nominee for us?

BR-New York City   December 28th, 2007 4:52 pm ET

"I just regret that [Obama and his chief strategist] would be politicizing this tragedy, and especially at a time when we do need to figure out a way forward,"
Clinton said Friday in an interview with CNN's Wolf Blitzer.

With all the experience that Hillary's has been touting that she has. One would think that she should already know how to move forward…you think!!!

Obama 08

Jean   December 28th, 2007 4:49 pm ET

Bhutto's death just means one thing to me on the political scene. it is one more example of Clinton's former associates being deposed, retired or dead. She has absolutely no more political one-upman's ship than any of the other candidates. I think Barak Obama's immersion in other cultures actually will make him the better President. Being a member of the our country's Foreign Relation Committee, he KNOWS what is going down.

Also, Clinton's comparing her own appearance at a mere campaign rally to Bhutto's crusade for Democracy was just, as she is - so often, crass.

Ron, TX   December 28th, 2007 4:47 pm ET

It is political. YOUR VOTE Hillary Clinton, Your vote has VERY REAL consequences. It IS very likely that the war in Iraq helped to distract us from Pakistan and Afghanistan where Al Quaeda and the Taliban run and play.

And it is also political, Hillary, when you play the "tea with Bhutto" card to try and trump your "experience". It was HILLARY's campaign that started pumping the notion that it would HELP her because it shows a need for experience. ALL of that came FIRST, before CNN asked Axelrod a question about the impact of the assassination on the race. Axelrod gave an honest answer, our votes have real consequences.

Alice, VA   December 28th, 2007 4:46 pm ET

Hillary, YOU ARE A LIAR! You and your pompous, arrogant, shameless, lying, cheating, spineless, poll-reading, sweetheart of a husband are birds of a feather.

Praveen Jayasinghe   December 28th, 2007 4:46 pm ET

I think it is important to understand first that whatever happens life goes on, and a tragedy like this will be politicized. It has been done by every camp. However, with regard to the Axelrod statement…all he did was make an important point. We are choosing the next President of the USA…Hillary. This is not American Idol. Obama made a valid, intelligent and apparently prophetic statement six months ago during the debate. Pakistan is dangerous and should be handled. I believe it is important that Hillary stop acting childish and acknowledge this…and then move on. By stating that Obama is politicizing the tragedy…all she is doing is…politicizing the tragedy

Jaik , chicago, IL   December 28th, 2007 4:42 pm ET

CNN is working directly for Hillary the way FOX worked for the GOP for the last 8 years. Its disgusting, the coverage is so biased its hard to read. They have completely lost my faith as a network over the last few months.

Jaik , chicago, IL   December 28th, 2007 4:39 pm ET

Hillary is also politicizing it by responding. Her bad decisions helped lead the US into a pointless war that distracted us and allowed Al Quaeda and the Taliban to move from Afghanistan in Pakistan where they now have a nuclear arsenal getting closer and closer into reach. She voted for a war in Iraq and it was a disastrous that shows an utter lack of judgement. Anyone paying attention knew what the Iraq war was ahead of time. Bhutto's assassination is a direct result of Al Quaeda and Taliban focusing on Pakistan while our eyes were off the ball. Worst foriegn policy decision in american history, she voted for it.

sadhana khan   December 28th, 2007 4:26 pm ET

Obama is little substance, all hype. The key to his success: a freshness, a lack of record to run on, the constant repetition of simple feel-good platitudes that lull listeners into a sense of trust and induce in them a yearning to believe. No wonder Barack Obama is so popular among denizens of Hollywood like Oprah: they certainly have an eye for those who can create an image, can generate a buzz that compels others to suspend their disbelief, and who can induce a trance-like stargazing. But the fact is that Barack Obama does have a record to run on and its a record of vote dodging and triangulation. Barack Obama talks about the audacity of hope… but how about the audacity to show up and vote.. and not criticize others over resolutions you conveniently missed while campaigning

Chris Dodd, Joe Biden, and Hillary Clinton have all been much better senators than Barack Obama. They have been serious, substantive lawmakers who have worked effectively across party lines. Obama has some accomplishments under his belt, but many of his colleagues believe that he has not bothered to master the intricacies of legislation or the maze of Senate rules. He talks about independence, but he has never quite bucked liberal orthodoxy or party discipline. When you consider two candidates for one job, you compare their resumes and weigh their latest experiences most heavily. Whoever distinguishes themselsves with their work ethic and garners respect amongst their colleagues is probably the best qualified for the job they seek. If Obama's colleagues feel he is an opportunist who is more about using his present job to build his resume rather than to actually work for substantive change, then he is just hype, and he is unqualified for the Presidency.

Scandals   December 28th, 2007 4:25 pm ET

Well, I too wish that CNN would stop showing bias and just report facts. I am intelligent enough to read between the lines and come up with my own thoughs.

However, I am very much tired of Hillary, the games, and alterior motives. . . .just too many scandals in the past and too much of the same in politics today.

I am leaning towards Obama at this point. I am looking for Honesty, intergrity, and someone I can proudly say is my president. It gets embarrasing having everyone in the world associate OUR leader as a womanizer and cheater as Mr. President was known for, and Mrs Clinton (sadly enough) continues to symbolize. I want to break ties with this identity and for nothing else, simply have a leader who has morals.

Steven, MA   December 28th, 2007 4:24 pm ET

Straight forward and substantive.
Clinton/Obama 08

stacey   December 28th, 2007 4:23 pm ET

I dont think it is a good time for Hillary to be president because the middle east have a lot of turm oil right now and the middle east officals that that been in office or a different position already know the clintons. and right know in war the Pak and Iraq don't need a women to tell them what to do when they in war. because the men are dieing there.

Rodger R   December 28th, 2007 4:20 pm ET

At first Hillary, I supported you…now I think you are absurd. The way you have run your campaign reflects how you would run the country. In ten months you have pissed off more people then you have gained! Please just drop out - go home - and save the rest of us from your rhetoric.

Wang   December 28th, 2007 4:19 pm ET

The way Hillary runs her campaign makes me nauseous. She has turned into the only Democrat that I WONT vote for EVER. And CNN stop bending over for her! Its just as disgusting!

Augustine, FL   December 28th, 2007 4:16 pm ET

What a coward! Pathetic liars!

Clinton camp tried to profit from the unfortunate death when they thought it would benefit them. Now that reality is catching up, she's trying to play the victim. We know this game - we've seen it before.

The US president cannot be such a whinning coward, playing the victim every single time. before you try such a stunt next time, check with your man, Evan Bayh.

Jonnie rae, Boston   December 28th, 2007 4:13 pm ET

It is CNN who is politicizing Bhutto's assassination. Axelrod's response to the question did not connect Hilary to the assassination of Ms. Bhutto!!! Any sane, rational person reading his answer would not make that connnection. Wolf Blitzer and CNN want a story out of this, preferably one that makes Hilary seem a victim, when she has been guilty of smearing Obama for months now. Going to war with Iraq instead of killing or capturing Bin Laden and putting down the Taliban for real was a really stupid decision. HRC could at least admit that it was a really stupid decision.
Now we have Bin Laden still making videos, Al Quada stronger than ever, moving in with the terrorists in Pakistan, all the while we are spending blood and treasure on a stupid war that has only strengthened Iran,and terrorist factions in Pakistan and around the world. Obama predicted this is 2002 during his run for the US Senate,and publicly announced his views. We need a new leader and a new strategy. We need to convene Muslim leaders in the region and get them to commit to a stabilizing process in this region. We need someone with the intelligence to understand the deeper issues, and establish the right priorities. We need Barack Obama.

Ray   December 28th, 2007 4:11 pm ET

Face it Obama clain, Axelrod said it for what it was and Obama stood behind him. Had Hilary said it you would be ALL over her. Obama showed by standing behind him that he is just like Bush by sticking with something (This War) when he knows it is wrong, but dosen't want to admitt it. Do we really want someone like that running our country again????

Hillary 08!

Mary   December 28th, 2007 4:11 pm ET

In the first place, it seems to me that it is quite easy to say Obama has opposed the Iraq war from day one especially since he wasn't even there on day one.

In the second place, when Obama was asked that, if he had been in the Senate at the time and was given the same information that others in the Senate were given on Iraq if he would in fact voted against it. Obama's response was he wasn't sure.

When it came to a vote on the Iran issue…Obama was too busy making speeches in New Hampshire to be where he should have been to vote on the issue.

I haven't decided on a candidate yet however, if you are going to have a rational discussion on the issue then you need to take into account all of the facts and not only the ones that suit your argument.

Who REALLY politicized Bhutto's death?…They all did. Obama, Edwards, Clinton, Richardson on the Democratic side and all of the major players on the Republican side.

Come on people…wake up. Stop trying to be a good Democrat or a good Republican and start being a good American!!!

Joan   December 28th, 2007 4:06 pm ET

Absolutely not!! I feel what this country needs today is Barack Obama. He is our last best hope in dealing with the unrest in the Middle East. Without him, I truly fear for this country in the years ahead!!!

ABC   December 28th, 2007 4:05 pm ET

Nice to see that Hillary is STILL trying to run from her Iraq vote.

Obama is, and always has been, right on the Iraq war and fighting terrorism..

Bush/Cheney/Edwards/Hillary/Biden all blew it when they voted for the Iraq war. Look where we are now.

Andrew Hayes   December 28th, 2007 4:04 pm ET

Hillary's claim that Obama is using Bhutto's death as a means to get attention is outrageous. Isn't her mere presence on CNN with Wolf Blitzer the same? Up until now I've been leaning to Clinton. This blatant political whining is the VERY reason why many will vote for Obama.

I read today on CNN.com that the Obama's have said it's now or never. I respect that. They are absolutely right for saying that. The Clintons have been in the political fishbowl too long.

Bruce Taylor   December 28th, 2007 3:59 pm ET

What is amazing here is that Mr. Axelrod made a valid point about the connection between foreign policy decisions and foreign events. I do not not construe this as a character attack. It is a question directed at decision-making. Afterall.Osama bin Laden resides somewhere in Pakistan it is assumed,Iraq was attacked by the U.S. as was Afghanistan. This has been the nexus of assumed Al Qaeda operation. Attacking Iraq obviously exacerbated the Moslem world. A vote for that war could be construed as a poor foreign policy decision. It is also the only major foreign policy decison ever made by Senator Clinton. For Senator Clinton to cry wolf is hypocritical considering her recent character assaults on Senator Obama. Mr.Axelrod made a point about the potential reverberations of policy decisions.

Jim, Irmo, SC   December 28th, 2007 3:55 pm ET

She was the one who first referenced Bhuttos' death as related to her campaign. She is full of it. I have shied away from such talk in th past as I am not convinced that it leads to the best discussions, but often people just read these snippets or the headlines and lose sight of the fact that she is intentionally misrepresenting what Obama has and has not said.

Lisa Finkelstein Studio City CA   December 28th, 2007 3:53 pm ET

Hillary has no shame. She aims low and fires off her attacks thinking that we're all too stupid to understand she's a calculating ,condescending, and increasingly more desperate candidate as the days go by. I know the American people will make the right choice in Iowa by caucassing for Obama. However,If something were to happen and she won the nomination, I would be forced to vote against her, and the Democratic party.
Obama 08!!

Tom L   December 28th, 2007 3:52 pm ET

Hillary supported Bush to vote for Iraq war. Obama opposed it from day one. All resources should have been invested in Pakistan and not Iraq. As a result, Bin Laden and his supporters are spreading across Pakistan and the world. Bad decision to go to war in Iraq. Think American Voters. Think Now. The moment is now! Obama 08.

Karen   December 28th, 2007 3:47 pm ET

Looks to me like Senator Clinton is the one politicizing this issue. Twist the words of another candidate and use to your (?) advantage. Does she think we're all that stupid? And CNN - you should be ashamed of your biased reporting on this story! I'll continue to watch MSNBC - I gave up on you a long, long time ago. This illustrates the reasons why!

Bill, NY   December 28th, 2007 3:47 pm ET

Well said Joseph of Taxas!!

Obama 08

Jeff Sacramento, CA   December 28th, 2007 3:46 pm ET

Wow thats odd. I thought Hillary was the one politicizing Bhutto's death. Just yesterday she was quoted as saying: "I've come to know Mrs. Bhutto over several years while she was prime minister, and while in exile". COME-ON!! Is that part of your extensive Presidential experience? She met her at a dinner party during Bill's time in office, as,… the first lady. Then she's gotten to know her more, and kept in communication while Bhutto was in exile? She is full of it.

Un-qualified statements like that are politicizing her death. If the American people could actually see the White House record from the Clinton adinistration, this may prove her point. Its blatantly obvious now, shes blocked the release of this information because of the skeltons in there. Had there been anything to encourage American voters to vote for her, or touting her EXTENSIVE forign policy experience, we'd see the records. The records would be plastered all over the internet and her web site!

Hillary is a very crafty politician. She is full of double talk, and cryptic answers. Those are GREAT qualities for a self serving politician! REALLY! Unfortunatley we, the American people want and deserve more in our next PRESIDENT!!

Marcus, National City CA   December 28th, 2007 3:42 pm ET

"It is time to turn the page. When I am President, we will wage the war that has to be won, with a comprehensive strategy with five elements: getting out of Iraq and on to the right battlefield in Afghanistan and Pakistan; developing the capabilities and partnerships we need to take out the terrorists and the world's most deadly weapons; engaging the world to dry up support for terror and extremism; restoring our values; and securing a more resilient homeland.

The first step must be getting off the wrong battlefield in Iraq, and taking the fight to the terrorists in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

As President, I would make the hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. military aid to Pakistan conditional, and I would make our conditions clear: Pakistan must make substantial progress in closing down the training camps, evicting foreign fighters, and preventing the Taliban from using Pakistan as a staging area for attacks in Afghanistan.

I understand that President Musharraf has his own challenges. But let me make this clear. There are terrorists holed up in those mountains who murdered 3,000 Americans. They are plotting to strike again. It was a terrible mistake to fail to act when we had a chance to take out an al Qaeda leadership meeting in 2005. If we have actionable intelligence about high-value terrorist targets and President Musharraf won't act, we will." - Sen. Barack Obama

"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." -PM Benazir Bhutto

ttp://www.barackobama.com/2007/08/01/remarks_of_senator_obama_the_w_1.php
http://www.cfr.org/publication/14041/conversation_with_benazir_bhutto.html

masterhurrikane   December 28th, 2007 3:38 pm ET

As Expected Clinton tries to politicize Bhutto's death to help her sorry argument that she is the best to handle foreign issues. Barack was right on the money in the debate where he talked about Pakistan and its instability.

annette Columbus, Ohio   December 28th, 2007 3:37 pm ET

I had to laugh. Hillary Clinton politicizes everything and moved on in this interview to do so. Seems to me Wolf Blitzer and CNN are the ones spinning this. Wolf even agreed with Obama last night on CNN about parts of statements being taken out of context. Congratualtions Wolf for pressing on in your attempts to prop up Clinton. Only problem……we can see right through it!

Jonny   December 28th, 2007 3:36 pm ET

She is a flat liar and no matter what she says, I am not voting for you and your network-CNN. Hillary was the one who politicized the stupid foreign policy of Bush which she fervently endorsed until it was no longer popular. I am voting for Barack!

X, Madison WI   December 28th, 2007 3:36 pm ET

Oh, Hillary stop being such a baby. The Obama camp never insinuated that you were somehow directly involved in her death. They simply meant that the Iraq war (which Clinton authorized) has diverted our attention and resources away from the real prize - Al Qaeda.
CNN: I realize you guys need ratings and all but for the love of God, your overwhelming support for Clinton is now becoming quite painful to watch.

Kevin, Landover, MD   December 28th, 2007 3:34 pm ET

This WAS a Political assassination, so it is already politicized. Obama has better JUDGEMENT.

1. The US should NOT have taken troops & resources away from Afghanistan and Pakistan and the Taliban (9/11 folks) to go into Iraq 2003.

2. ANY Candidate that voted for that Iraq war distraction has BAD Judgment. No matter how the Media tries to smooth it over.

3. Those Candidates should NOT be our next President (PERIOD)

4. WHY not ? You ask. Because those Candidates will continue to make BAD Judgments.

5. Obama was against the Iraq War, Obama against the Vote for war mongering of Iran and Obama was FOR continue pursuit of Taliban in Pakistan mountains. Which would most likely have resulted in a more stable Pakistan by now and NOT have lead to the death of a warrior such as BHUTTO.

6. THINK PEOPLE ! Continuing to do the same thing and expecting a different outcome is a form of insanity. OBAMA08

Chris   December 28th, 2007 3:33 pm ET

GO HILLARY! She's right all the way. Agreed!

mike, dallas, TX   December 28th, 2007 3:27 pm ET

Who REALLY politicized Bhutto's death?

"I am so moved today to go to an event like this just as Benazir was doing, making her case with the people as to why she would be their prime minister".

[Comparing herself campaigning in Iowa full of oeaceful citizens with Benazir Campaigning inPakistan in an armored vehicle]

It was none other than HRC cmpaigning in Iowa trying to exploit the tragedy just few hours after Bhutto's death.

The media conveniently ignores this coming out of the candidate's own mouth and rather spins a remark from a campaign aide out of context.

Emily, Alberta   December 28th, 2007 3:26 pm ET

Excellent response/interview on what should be done in Pakistan! Go Hillary!

Cheryl Oxnard Ca   December 28th, 2007 3:25 pm ET

I want to know why the Clinton Administration dropped the ball of Pakistan. Why didnt they do more to push for demoracy. Since Hillary is stating she has experience and trying to use Bill's experience she should be made to answer the question. Also Why did the Bush administration drop the ball as well. Those two administation need to be held accountable for Pakistan. Why isn't the media asking questions of these two administrations.

Ben   December 28th, 2007 3:25 pm ET

Obama has run a clean and honest campaign. No one invoked Clinton as being "responsible" for Bhutto. CNN - Clinton News Network. Cover the news, don't create it.

La'Kitgum, Concord, NH   December 28th, 2007 3:24 pm ET

This is the most outregeous comment ever from the Obama campaign? It is the lowest level of desperation any campaign could show at exploiting Bhutto's death for political ends. Sincerely, how could any one link Clinton to Bhutto's death if it isn't a case of desperation? To say Clinton is responsible for Bhutto's death because she voted to authorize war in Iraq and that she votted to lebel the Iranian Republican Army a terrorist organization is from the brains of the simplest of simpletons.

If that is what David Axelrod believes is a political stregy I sympathize with the deficiencies in the Obama campaign. It is desperation that will fatally lay to waste the Obama campaign before Iowa Jan 3rd.

David Axelrod speaks like a mental case and I sincerely believe that he is even by just looking at his facial composure and body language. The whole Obama campaign will sink beyond rescue on Jan 3rd in Iowa because of Axelrod's dumb remarks. How silly can one be. Believe me.

Becky Beatty   December 28th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

It was NOT Obama OR his stratetist who politicized the death of Bhutto. It was CNN for asking a political question and then scewing the answer to suite their agenda of getting Hillary Clinton elected. Please be on notice CNN that the world has changed and the world is watching. NO ONE is buying this cheap trick on your part.

OBAMA 08

F.Igwealor   December 28th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

Dave and Obama were right. If Hillary's dogs are out telling us the Bhutto incident should be one if the reasons to vote for Hillary, they should be ready to give us account of how Hillary has used her vast experience to make sound foreign policy judgment.
Her 2002 vote to invade Iraq and her recent vote allowing GWB to invade Iran are some of the key judgments we need to consider in this situation.

Hillary for sure have traveled to more foreign countries than most of the other candidates, but we're not electing a president for a travel agency.

America needs a commander-in-chief who have demonstrated record of sound judgment.

Greg, Charlotte NC   December 28th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

I'm always amazed when one politician accuses another politician of politicizing a political event. In this case a tragic assasination of a political figure. Would we, in the U.S., be talking about the murder of a Muslim woman in Pakistan if she hadn't been such a charismatic leader - and if it wasn't a "political event?

Al in Wpg   December 28th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

Obama's aid fell into a trap set by a reporter, it happens, and I don't think his comment was politicizing the death either… not like Hillary's comment in Iowa:

"I am so moved today to go to an event like this just as Benazir was doing, making her case with the people as to why she would be their prime minister".
HRC

D. Skinner   December 28th, 2007 3:20 pm ET

If anyone is politizing Bhutto's death it is the Clintons. Axelord was asked a political question and answered it in that context and then you people at CNN and MSNBC take it out of context and try to make it something it was not intended for. The people of Iowa are not buying it so CNN just STOP IT!

Common Sense   December 28th, 2007 3:19 pm ET

I support Joe Biden, but Barack Obama is a close second. I trust them both due to their wisdom and integrity.

Hillary Clinton….please go away.

TruthSeeker, Brooklyn, NY   December 28th, 2007 3:18 pm ET

Isn't it true that Clinton is actually politicizing Bhutto's death by saying this? If she didn't want to politicize it, why say anything?

James,Lawrenceville GA   December 28th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

Do we want another president in the White House that messes up and then say,"I stand by my decision, I will stay the course." We have had seven years of that and it is time for change. If Obama is voted president that is exactly what we will get. Obama was wrong for defending his aid for using the tragedy that happened in Pakistan yesterday for political gain by linking this to Hillary Clinton. This should be a time of mourning for the people of Pakistan and not a opportunity for political gain in America.

Matthew, San Francisco   December 28th, 2007 3:16 pm ET

They're not politicizing, he was asked a specific question and gave a specific answer- Point blank. The answer happened to be a very truthful one that highlighted the inconsistencies in Clinton's much touted "experience."

don warner   December 28th, 2007 3:15 pm ET

Hillary hung out with Bhutto socially ?

It did not seem to confer to Hillary any great insight regarding the impact of the preemptive US invasion of Iraq.

Hillary voted for the US invasion of an oil rich Arab country that did not attack the USA and was no danger to the USA.Hillary did nothing to stop the march to a war that she had supported.

When Bhutto returned to Pakistan, she carried the baggage of the US Iraq occupation that was the result of Hillary's support of GW Bush's Iraq war.

Lioness, Washington DC   December 28th, 2007 3:15 pm ET

LOL!!!

Why am I not surprised at the Clinton News Network's latest desperate attempt to save Hillary's candidacy.

I KNEW she would get an exclusive interview after Obama and others got very little air time last night.

And CNN's interpretation of Axelrod's comments is deliberately misleading.

You folks are NOT the most trusted source in news. You make Fox look like a paragon of objectivity.

James D.   December 28th, 2007 3:12 pm ET

Really Hillary? I mean *you* aren't politicizing it by keeping this story alive…no, no…*you* would never do such an awful thing. Disingenuous and manipulative bs.

I need dual citizenship somewhere…ANYWHERE! Any single Canadien women reading this?

enough!!!   December 28th, 2007 3:11 pm ET

CNN is the only network running this garbage..

AJ, IL   December 28th, 2007 3:05 pm ET

Wow! Look how the media spins one of Obama's advisor (Axelrod) comments. There is nothing in this blog which points to Axelrod comments linking Hillary Clinton to the assassination of Bhutto. What I get from Axelrod's comment is that America has become distracted from the War on Terror and Al Qaeda with our commitments in Iraq and time wasted with Iran. Hillary Clinton did vote for the Iraq War and subsequently, did vote to label part of the Iranian government terrorists (which is just like labeling the whole Iranian government terrorists). Axelrod was trying to refocus the media attention and fixation on Hillary's "foreign relations" experience to Hillary's judgement in the bigger picture.

Many Americans forget that those who voted to go to war with Iraq committed not only American blood and treasury but also American intelligence. Political experience is wasted if Hillary lacks good judgement on important issues.

Jon   December 28th, 2007 3:04 pm ET

Mr. Blitzer,

Obama and his advisor never linked Mrs Clinton's vote to Bhutto's Death. Can you please stop parsing the line and spreading propaganda.?

You asked the same question to Mr. Obama last night and he clearly said that was not the case and still you are pushing this.

Hey Clinton News Network, what happened to your slogan of fair and balance, most trusted news and best political team in the world? These days i find fox news more credible, besides O'Rielly factor.

Parsing of line and creating propaganda in favor of CLINTON is what CNN (Clinton News Network) does these days, I seriously wish she looses the nomination and once again CNN earns its name and most TRUSTED news network.

God bless you all.

Kim, Sacramento, CA   December 28th, 2007 3:00 pm ET

Hillary, no one was politicizing it until now. Please stop trying to twist and turn things to your advantage, please stop attacking other candidates, please START telling us where you stand and what you will do and be consistent about it. Thank you.

Jenny Beagle   December 28th, 2007 2:59 pm ET

hillary YOU ARE A JOKE. PLEASE GO HOME!!!!

Corbett, Seattle WA   December 28th, 2007 2:58 pm ET

This is the best she has looked in a while. This is the steady hand and cool language that she is always talking about.

I've been 60 Obama and 40 Clinton for a while but the truth is that I would like to see this face of authority in time of adversity, which is 24/7 these days . So far every other Democrat on the scene has either been thirsty for political blood or oddly silent.

Rafi, NY NY   December 28th, 2007 2:57 pm ET

Clinton's comments don't bother me so much because she's a candidate, but CNN's wording in the full article is absolutely absurd.

"Obama's chief strategist, David Axelrod, seemed to link Clinton's vote on the Iraq war and Bhutto's death."

"Axelrod later seemed to back away from his earlier remarks."

Even when I was an undergrad at J-school I knew not to write like this. Seemed according to whom? Clinton or the general public? I read Axelrod's comments and I strongly disagree that he implied anything of the sort — and adding the word "seemed" doesn't make it magically unbiased.

This is an opinion, not a fact, and as such does not belong in an article. Please stop editorializing.

Adam, Plano, TX   December 28th, 2007 2:53 pm ET

sorry hillary, but no matter how you try to spin it, this tragedy is absurdly political, and it very likely will need to be dealt with in a very political way. and you think you bring us experience?

don warner   December 28th, 2007 2:46 pm ET

And Hillary was not politicizing Bhutto's death when she bragged about hanging out with Bhutto to show how connected she was internationally ????

Wayne, Silver Spring, MD   December 28th, 2007 2:46 pm ET

Not so fast, Hill. Let's be straight here

Sen. Evan Bayh (D) — your surrogate– who said first that "DEATH SHOWS NEED FOR EXPERIENCE"
( http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/12/27/535372.aspx )

Tell me that's not politicizing. YOUR CAMP WAS THE FIRST TO JUMP THAT BANDWAGON!

Axelrod's response is not political by any stretch of the imagination (except yours and your network, CNN, of course)

Mrs. America   December 28th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

Well, you have to admit she wasn't out front and center using Mrs. Bhutto's death for her own purposes. I would like to think that Mrs. Clinton might have some insight others don't, vying to be the first female U.S. president, as Mrs. Bhutto was the first female PM in the Muslim world. A little sisterhood. Not calling the gender card–just making an observation.

S Williams, Tampa   December 28th, 2007 2:43 pm ET

I was saddened yesterday to hear Wolf Blitzer, one of the last of the credible journalists, hype this non-story as a 'controversial' accusation by the Obama camp. CNN is getting sucked into the tabloid journalism realm.

CNN and MSNBC are our last two possibile choices we have for decent all-news cable networks.

Now that CNN is following Fox into that one-way abyss of non-credibility, we can more surely predict the demise of respectable journalism in this country.

I think it mostly lies with the fact that journalists are too often Ivy League elitists that view the public as less educated, less sophisticated and without real value.

They think we will believe anything they tell us.

john williams san diego, ca.   December 28th, 2007 2:33 pm ET

Sen. Hillary has a proven record of never politicizing any person regardless of race,creed, color, gender, political party or death. She has my vote.

Joseph Riedel, Dallas, Texas   December 28th, 2007 2:32 pm ET

Please. Senator Clinton is doing exactly what she's accusing Senator Obama's campaign of doing. She's attempting to score cheap political points by trying to appear as if she's not trying to score political points. This is why I will not support her if she becomes the nominee. I am a democrat, but I would vote for McCain before I'd vote for HRC.

Obama '08!!

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