December 29, 2007
Posted: 03:58 PM ET
 Obama took shots at his chief rivals in Iowa Saturday.

Obama took shots at his chief rivals in Iowa Saturday.

(CNN) — In the final weekend before Iowa voters kick off the presidential primary season, Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton each raised questions about the other's ability to beat the Republican Party's nominee next November.

"We are less likely to win an election that starts off with half the country not wanting to vote for that candidate," Obama said Saturday at an event in Madison.

"We are less likely also to win an election with somebody who had one set of positions four years ago and has almost entirely different positions four years later. We've been through that," he also said in comments that seemed to be directed at John Edwards. At a later event he said the same thing and named Edwards.

Clinton quickly responded in a media availability in Eldredge, sounding her familiar campaign theme that she has already proven her ability to withstand the "Republican attack machine," and suggesting Obama has yet to be tested.

"I have been around a while," the New York Democrat said. "I have seen a lot of elections come and go, and who ever our Democratic nominee is will be subjected to the full force and effect of the Republican attack machine."

"Unfortunately that is the barrier that you have to overcome," she added. "What you know with me, I have already overcome it. I have withstood it, and not only survived it but thrived over the last 16 years. So there is very little guess work."

– CNN's Chris Welch and Mike Roselli contributed to this report

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • Iowa


Michael Oliva   January 7th, 2008 3:55 am ET

Please enjoy an article I wrote titled "Experience Matters!"

http://www.nycivic.org/articles07/Bison/071231B.htm

Thanks,
Michael Oliva

Ajay Jain   January 5th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Obama on Electability:

What Obama so innocently is forgetting is that he is dealing with America where in spite of what happened in IOWA, all is said and done RACISM is alive. Ask the Republican voters who will be part of the general election Republican character destruction machine that Hillary has fought and won twice in 1992 and 1996!

The so called polling that is done among the majority Whites in today's US of America give a very false impression maybe except for the under 30 youth vote who are not aware of the dire condition the country is in with the Iraq & Afganistan wars and terrorism. Their idealism will divide the democratic vote.

For fear of being labeled a "racist' Whites in today's US of America say they will vote for a Black man in Obama but in the voting booth they will pull the lever for the White person be it a REPUBLICAN alternative. Ask the Republican voters for a general election vote and they will happily give you their view.

Hence Obama should not jump to ELECTABILITY conclusions based just on polls conducted in New Hampshire! Ask the Republican voters for a general election vote.

Go Hillary44 08! http://hillaryis44.org/ http://facts.hillaryhub.com/ http://www.hillaryhub.com/
For a little election Pre-IOWA snapshot: http://uselectionatlas.org/2008.php

Jean augustin   December 30th, 2007 11:28 pm ET

We need a change for the political in US. Whoever the candidate who is going to make the change I will go for . I think Obama will be the best candidate for the post of presidency in the Us for the next four years.

BR-New York City   December 30th, 2007 4:22 pm ET

Kim, Los Angeles, CA December 29, 2007 6:38 pm ET

DUH..REPUBLICANS SAY THEY WOULD VOTE FOR OBAMA AND NOT CLINTON BECAUSE THEY ARE PRAYING FOR OBAMA TO GET THE DEMOCRAT NOMINATION. THEY KNOW THAT ANY OF THE REPUBLICANS CAN BEAT OBAMA AND ARE HOPING HE GETS THE NOMINATION. IT IS HILLARY THAT THEY ARE SCARED OF. SENATOR CLINTON IS THE ONLY DEMOCRAT THAT WILL DEFEAT ANY OF THE REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES. THE REPUBLICANS KNOW THIS. THANKFULLY, SO DO MOST DEMOCRATS. THAT IS WHY HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT

To Kim.

What are smoking? The polls suggest that Hillary can't beat any of the candidates. Maybe you should pass that over to Bill so maybe this time he will inhale…

Jimenez   December 30th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

You know let's all try to stay focused on backing a winner. This of course is Clinton. We are amazed how some people are so blinded by Obama. The hunger for change has made you lose sight of what is really important. We need a person of strength - Clinton. Obama lacks strength. He is just a puppet - to Michelle and Oprah. Who told this man he even had a remote of chance? Michelle. Who is now saying that if he doesn't win in 08 he will NEVER run again? Michelle. Need I say more. These two are so not ready to be a president of a first lady. Not that it would really happen. But so not ready………. Clinton 08

Ray Kizzn   December 30th, 2007 3:08 pm ET

AND Obama pulls ahead in the stretch…He he comes….WINNING going away
No to old lady Hil….A LIAR
raykizzn@aol.com

E, Layton UT, Freiburg Germany   December 30th, 2007 2:48 pm ET

My original post didn't come through, so here's a second try :)

Mrs. Clinton: "What you know with me, I have already overcome it. I have withstood it, and not only survived it but thrived over the last 16 years. So there is very little guess work."

Sorry, but to me that's a pile of bull… Every single Republican that I've talked to about the race can't stand Hillary. To be honest, I don't personally know anybody that actually really supports and believes in her. It's almost always been the, "Anybody but Hillary, please!" line that I hear from Republicans. From Dems I usually hear, "But she's so smart…" So are millions of other good people in our country. Hillary never "beat" the "Republican Attack Dog" - she just survived, and they still despise her and have tons of ammo to throw.

When Mr. Obama talks about reaching across the table and being able to work with people from all walks of life: Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Blacks, Whites, Latino Americans, Asians, etc., etc., I firmly believe it. I'm a "conservative religous white man" from the "Red State" of Utah, and am supporting Barack (and yes, I'm active in the LDS Church and not supporting Mr. Romney, as much as I do respect him). I've noticed that when people read Obama's take on the issues, his goals and plans, and then really listen objectively to his speeches, they lean towards him. Plus, he truly inspires people, and reminds us what it means to be a "citizen" of the United States and to serve others, to actually do our part in society… an attribute of a true leader that we haven't seen in Washington for a long time. Check out the Issues menu on the barackobama . com homepage. If you've read through the information, and not just the spun news headlines, and still disagree, by all means, vote for your candidate, and then support them.

I believe Obama will get the Independent vote, as well as a large chunk of Repubs' vote who are tired of the "same old Washington politics". I was one of them. Take it for what it's worth.

Mario   December 30th, 2007 2:02 pm ET

To al in Sf, are you kidding…trust Hitlery? are you out of your mind! To MArgarita, who is Bubba? To Dan in Columbia MD, Amen!! To Sledge, your hero did vote for the war in Iraq, your just anoher Hiteryite lying and trying to get away with it. Listen to the screaming witch, she even admits she voted for the war!

Helen   December 30th, 2007 2:02 pm ET

obama will get my vote….WHEN HELL FREEZES OVER

Realist08   December 30th, 2007 1:37 pm ET

ITS SO FUNNY WHEN I READ SLIME MUDSLINGS FROM OBAMA. HOW AND WHEN HAS HRC CHANGED HER VIEWS.

THE ONE THING THAT BAFFLES ME IS THAT OBAMA IS NOT ALWAYS AVAILABLE TO VOTE ON SENSITIVE ISSUES YET HE USES THE VOTES OF OTHERS TO CASTIGATE THEM.

TRUTH - ALL REPUBLICANS WANT OBAMA TO WIN THE NOMINATION SO THEY CAN UTTERLY TRASH THE DEMOCRATS IN THE POLLS.

O YE DEMOCRATS DO NOT BE FOOLED, THE DAY OBAMA PICKS THE DEMOCRATIC NOMNATION IS THE OBITUARY DATE OF THE DEMOCRATS.

HATE IT OR LOVE IT, HRC REMAINS THE BEST CANDIDATE THE DEMOCRATS CAN OFFER TO BEAT THE REPUBLICANS FOLLOWED BY EDWARDS.

ALL DEMOCRATS NEED TO LOOK BEYOND NAMES. PLEASE SCROLL UP AND READ WHAT JUSTIN FROM HOUSTON TX AND MG HAD WRITTEN.

I ALSO BELIEVE THAT THOSE CLAIMING TO BE DEMOCRATS BU.T WOULD VOTE FOR REPUBLICANS IF HRC IS ELECTED ARE NOT TRUE BLOODED DEMOCRATS. THEY ARE SPOIL SPORTS TRYING TO PULL DOWN THE DEMOCRATS

VOTE HRC OR EDWARDS, AS WE NEED TO MAKE GAINS ON WHAT WE HAVE NOW.

Tyler in Raleigh, NC   December 30th, 2007 1:35 pm ET

I am tired of people saying "life was good" under the Clintons. The bubbles in the stock market and with jobs goign oversees STARTED with the Clinton's policies.

Its typical politics, someone votes things that SOUND good. By the time the true impact is felt, its up to the next president to deal with them.

That is the problem with the 4-year 2-term short sighted election system. No president is thinking of what is best for the country in 10-20-30 years. They want what makes polls go up TODAY and wins them votes in the next election.

Social Security, Medicare, Trade Deficits, National Debt and more are issues that require LONG TERM planning and sacrifice. No one will take these on because Americans do not want to sacrifice today for a better tomorrow — how many have been living the "good life" off home equity and credit card debt?

Hillary knows this, she flip flops and votes for what is popular just like Bill did (must be that "experience" she saw as First Lady) instead of what is necessary.

JBH   December 30th, 2007 12:52 pm ET

I get the impression that Barack Hussein Obama thinks he's Zorro. Personally, I'm embarassed for him; he's too uncertain about himself, weak, immature, and lives in fantasyland.
I might consider voting for him if and when HE WALKS ON WATER—-which isn't going to happen.

Hillary gets my vote.

Brad, Stockton, CA   December 30th, 2007 12:22 pm ET

"I have been around a while," the New York Democrat said.

That's for sure; she has been around too long, 12 years of Bushes, 8 years of Clintons and now possibly another 4 to 8 years of Clintons again? The pandering to special interests that comes with "experience" should have no place in American government. It's time for someone with less experience rather than more - experience is at the root of everything that's wrong with America.

Chris, Wisconsin   December 30th, 2007 11:22 am ET

Go Hillary! I'm supporting you all the way!

Larry Buchas, New Britain, CT   December 30th, 2007 11:06 am ET

Bill & Hillary have resorted to a strategy of character assassination against Obama because they realize he will surpass their obsessed legacy.

I'm one Democrat that will NOT vote for her in a general election. I won't vote Republican either. It's either Obama, Dodd, a viable third party, or perhaps no one. I can always support my Congressman. Obama is my 1st choice and those that have brains.

Hey Hillary, when are you going to come to terms with Iraq? You are in continuous denial, much like George W. Bush.

LT   December 30th, 2007 11:05 am ET

Why in a time when we are so divided are we even thinking of nominating a leader who prides herself in claiming she will win by dividing us further. Being able to "take" on" the Republican machine in my opinion is not an asset.

Time for us baby boomers to stand aside and elect a new generation of leaders who understand this world and do not have the prejudices and misjudgmants of the past.

tina, ny, ny   December 30th, 2007 10:39 am ET

I am a democrat and will have to vote republican if Obama gets the nomination. Our country needs a experience not some rookie.

Clinton gets my vote

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   December 30th, 2007 10:28 am ET

Both wrong. Neither electable. Only Edwards has consistently beaten all GOP candidates. That's electability.

Mamoon Yunus, Boston, MA   December 30th, 2007 9:52 am ET

Benazir Bhutto's will made her 19-year old son the Chairman of her Political Party.

The Bush Family has ruled for eons and now the Clinton's want to establish a dynasty. After HRC it will be Chelsea.

Hell of a Global Democracy we can wish for our future generations. Might as well bring the Queen of England back.

Desiree, Queens, New York   December 30th, 2007 9:41 am ET

Obama might be a very nice guy but nice is not what this country needs right now. Our enermies don't care if our president is nice or not. To me, Obama likes to play it safe too much, he either doesn't go to important votes or votes present in order not to offend. He has the worse voting records than any other canidate, then tells everyone he didn't support it only because he wasn't there. To have a president like that who can't make a decision in order not to offend the other side is not what this country needs at this time. I think he needs to get back to the senate, make some important votes and policy and come back with a stronger record in 4 years, then he should be unbeatable. This country needs a leader who will stand tough. Everyone is not going to like the same things, we're all different and that makes us a great country where different people can come together and give their import without being attack for speaking up. I think if Obama speaks up more in the senate, it would give him a better platform to run on than the platform of hope. I live in new york and I hope everyday that my family makes it home at the end of the day but hope does not make a president, actions does. This is just my opinion.

Surrealist, Fort Myers, Fl   December 30th, 2007 9:19 am ET

They boh may be electable….but they are certainly not desirable.

Both represent elitist policies–that sustain the status qou in Washington.

Neither, relates to the millions of Americans who have watched their quality of life decline over the past 20 yrears…while the nations economy as prospered, and the incomes of corporate executives has risen to obscene numbers.

Both are at the mercy of special interests–who strive to redirect government waste–in their own direction.

Both elected themselves pay raises, yet compromised on legislation to increase the minimum wage to the level of a living wage.

John Edwards–pales the two. His record is above reproach. His enthusiasm, determination, and passion to change the paradigm in Washington–may not be workable–but offers a truly new direction that most Americans are looking for.

Tony, Enterprise, Alabama   December 30th, 2007 9:01 am ET

This nonsense about Senator Clinton not being electable is just that, nonsense.

All major polls show she is very electable. And, once the Republicans decide on their candidate, she will probably win by a larger margin than the pundits will allow.

Senator Obama, however, will get clobbered if he makes it to the general election. He is an amateur, not qualified, and the Republicans will hammer him into the dirt before November.

If the Democrats want to win they will stop flirting with disaster and vote for Senator Clinton.

JE   December 30th, 2007 7:38 am ET

I am a democrate and will have to vote republican if Hilary gets the nomination. Our country needs a major overhall after 8 years of Bush and the Clintons are not the people to do it.

Obama gets my vote

naheed dareshuri   December 30th, 2007 7:32 am ET

Obama looks like a 4 years old boy who wears a cape and jumps from his bed to the floor ,makes a fist and says: I will bring the tropes home the day after I am president!
I think he has no knowledge about the job that he is after.It may help if Opra makes a cape for him.

Joan West Coast   December 30th, 2007 7:29 am ET

At this point in time and given the state of world affairs - do we want to elect a leader who has been voted "most likely to succeed" or one who has been voted "most inspirational"??

Doesn't take an Einstein to figure that one out does it??

al, San Francisco, CA   December 30th, 2007 5:13 am ET

Obama is in denial that the dem voters have said in polls that Hillary is the MOST electable of all dem candidates. You simply cannot trust Obama.

Ajay Jain, Garland, TX   December 30th, 2007 3:09 am ET

What Obama is forgetting is that he is dealing with America where in spite all is said and done RACISM is alive.

The so called polling that is done among the majority Whites give a very false impression.

For fear of being labeled a racist they say they will vote for a Black man in Obama but in the voting booth they will pull the lever for the White person.

Hence Obama should not jump to ELECTABILITY conclusions based just on polls conducted in the United States of today's America!

Go Hillary44 08! http://hillaryis44.org/

jimmy   December 30th, 2007 2:16 am ET

I am sorry Hillary, you need to know that your husband Clinton started globalization- CAFTA and NAFTA with the help of family magnet ( ROCKEFELLER) sponsoring all the meetings. NOW Americans have no jobs with the number of billionaires sky locketing from 480 last year to 998 this year. The economy is doing soo poor and I have not heard your husband mention anything about it becuase he initiated it. What can you tell Americans about it or continue to enrich the Rockefellers. REMEMBER, God uses merchants to lead His people. Tired of those believing they know but always making the wrong decisions, just like Busch. Now is Bhutto dead, what advice did you give to her? Sorry Hillary, wrong thinking all the time.

Biggdawg   December 30th, 2007 2:16 am ET

"Why is it problem when Obama brings up Clinton's electability? Chris Dodd said in a National Debate that 50% of the country will not vote for her."

So Chris Dodd says it therefore it is? One of her competitors no less? Are you even a Dodd supporter?

Democrat that I am, this notion that Hillary is "polarizing" will disappear once the MSNBC (insert unspeakably derogatory adjectives here) Chris Matthews and Tim Russerts of the world are left with Hillary as the nominee. Get over it.

Bubba   December 30th, 2007 2:16 am ET

I ain't votin for no OBAMA BIN LADEN period

Frank, MI, NY, GA, CA   December 30th, 2007 2:08 am ET

WOW, such passion - sounds good. Remember no matter who wins, the country will be better off.

Lance as for Jefferson, Kennedy, and Lincoln, well let's just say being a part of the oligarcy that owned this country or a political family that controlled it… Obama is no Jack Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln or Thomas Jefferson. The only thing that makes Obama unique is that fact that he's black. Don't get me wrong, I'd vote for him is nominated. I just don't see the connection at all.

Obama's vision is not all that unique; his platform not all that inspiring (Howard Dean had a similar platform), nor his experience that impressive, but compared to the sorry group of republicans running (with the exception of John McCain) he's a STAR.

Watch out for John McCain.

MT   December 30th, 2007 2:06 am ET

Hillary - don't let the door hit you….we have all had enough…no more lies. Time to turn the page on the sorry state of affairs. Time for someone with proven intelligence. Republicans for Obama '08.

Margarita, Los Angeles   December 30th, 2007 1:57 am ET

WHEN BUBBA WAS IN OFFICE. I COULD PAY MY BILLS AND HAVE MONEY LEFT OVER. I COULD TAKE NICE VACATIONS AND PUT MONEY IN MY MUTUAL FUNDS. LIFE WAS GOOD. GAS AND FOOD WERE AFFORDABLE AND I OWNED 2 HOMES.
THOSE OF YOU THAT THINK LIFE IS GOOD NOW ARE IN DENIAL… I
AND F YOU THINK THAT NINCAMPOP THAT SAY "MICHELLE WON'T LET ME RUN" IS A GOOD CHOICE PLEASE NOTE THAT HE MISSED 130 IN THE 2 YEARS HE HAS BEEN IN OFFICE. BESIDES WE DON'T WANT MICHELLE PUTTING HIM ON TIME OUT FOR MIS-BEHAVING.

I WANT BUBBA AND THE SNOW QUEEN BACK… LIFE WAS GOOD.

Dan (Columbia, MD)   December 30th, 2007 1:47 am ET

While I may not agree with Obama's politics I think he's a good man.

Hillary on the other hand is a liar and a fake. She also has total loathing and contempt for the men and women in uniform. Ask any military service member who worked at the White House while she was First Housewife.

She's unqualified and not fit to be the Commander-in-Chief.

Lance in Monrovia   December 30th, 2007 1:34 am ET

As Hillary Clinton said, "It's time to pick a President."

That may be a rallying cry to the Washington establishment and the media establishment that endorses the candidate most likely to line their pockets, but it is old news to anyone familiar with Barack Obama.

I picked Barack Obama in 2004 and I haven't gotten him out of my head since. He's in the same league as JFK, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. All those mentioned were newcomers, outside the system, with little "national experience" and a great deal of wisdom, charisma, vision, and the wit and will to use it at the most appropo time in history.

They were at the nexus, and they took the reigns.

If you had the opportunity to work on Abraham Lincoln's campaign, would you?

That's precisely how I feel about helping get Barack Obama elected.

I'm weary of writing about it. I'm going out to do it. Really, its in the hands of those in Iowa now.

Don't let us down Iowa. Don't be known as the State that could have voted for Abraham Lincoln… but didn't.

Frankly, I know they'll do right. They'll elect a true leader in Obama.

Obama 08

Alex   December 30th, 2007 1:10 am ET

I'm an American Conservative. However, I have not been impressed with what Bush has done for this country and do not like any of the GOP candidates except John Mcain. As a U.S. Marine, I would NEVER vote for Divisive Hillary. If Obama is elected, I will vote for him even over Mcain. That said, I would vote for anyone on the Republican side over Hillary.
Get the point Hillary, let the country heal, we do not want you as commander in chief. You would only get more of my brothers in arms killed.

Ryan, New Jersey   December 30th, 2007 1:00 am ET

Hillary is capable of losing the election more than any other candidate, especially Obama.

tam/Stone Mountain.GA   December 30th, 2007 12:51 am ET

Hillary is the strongest person for the job. She is right when she says that she has withstood the assaults from all angles. What are the haters afraid of. Let's not get stupid again and get tricked into putting a republican back in office. We need someone who has the respect from around the world immediately so that we can start to clean up the mess from the Bush clan. Wake up everyone we need the Clintons.

Joe Ossai, Bedford, NH   December 30th, 2007 12:41 am ET

Obama will win Iowa, NH and SC, from there right to the nomination. So Hillary supporters get use to it.

If I hear Hillary talk about Change one more time, I will puck.

Peter   December 30th, 2007 12:26 am ET

Hillary the carpetbagger.
Where does she get 16 years from?
She is a wannabe.

Sledge   December 30th, 2007 12:09 am ET

You Obamans,

When are you going to get it right? Hillary did not vote to authorize the war in Iraq. She voted to allow the United Nation inspectors to continue their investigation of WMD.

Unfortunately President Bush misuse her vote. But, she dusted out Obama on this engagement of electability though; Come on you must admit….

VOTE CLINTON 08
Sledge

Justin, Houston, TX   December 29th, 2007 11:57 pm ET

Denise, Phoenix, AZ

Sorry, but there's no image spinning go on. You can try to bury your head in the sand but the truth is still there. There was never an argument about Hillary "hosting too many tea parties" while Bill was in office. The Republicans were just livid with the amount of influence she had. Even old George, when he ran in 2000, made some sexist remark along the lines of Laura sure wouldn't be running the White House when he was asked what role she would play. Face it Hillary was a part of helping creating some of the most prosperous times in memorable history in this country.

• Abuse of the powers of the office of the President
- That is the most laughable statement you made. For one, you didn’t even detail any said abuses. If you’re referring to presidential pardons, while I’m not excusing it, I believe every president throughout history has done the same thing. Secondly, if any president has abused the office, it’s Bush. Secret wiretapping, torturing of prisoners, using the Justice Dept for political gain, declaring with every bill he signs that he’s above the law, destroying evidence, his and his administration’s convenient ability to not recollect anything. Now that sounds like abuse of power.

• Hillary’s Senate election
- If I recall she won by a landslide both times. Even America’s Mayor, Mr. New York himself, Rudy, knew when to pick his battles. He couldn’t beat her then and he knew he wanted a shot at the big office so losing to her would have been the end of that chance before it started.

• Hillary’s need to ride Bill’s coattails
- I think you’re quite mistaken about this woman. It’s widely known in Washington that Hillary is the brains of this operation. She had a successful law career and only put aside her ambitions to further Bill’s. If she were a man, she would have been president by now. When Bill first campaigned for president, the slogan was America was getting a 2 for 1. But it’s because of ignorant people like you that the public was aghast by that. I mean how dare the First Lady have a brain and not sit in the White House and bake cookies and host parties all day.

• Hillary’s long-suffering marriage to Bill
- I can’t comment on her marraige because I have no idea what goes on between the two of them and NEITHER do you. Maybe, shock, she really loves him and does what a person does when they’re in love, forgive. If you’re not aware the divorce rate in this country is over 50%, hell, at least they haven’t contributed to it. No one questions Laura’s steadfast devotion to an admittted alcoholic and drug addict. No one bats an eye when Larry Craig’s wife stands by him while he plays footsie in men’s rooms. And Jackie Kennedy is one of the most respected First Ladies of all time and we all know the numerous indescretions Jack had. Point is Hillary and Bill make it work and I’m glad for them that they do. More importantly, good 'ol George's great family values has done nothing to help

• Hillary has less experience in elected office than Barack.
- That’s absurd as well. Barack has half of a term in the Senate and I believe 8 years in the State Senate. Hillary has a full term and yes 8 years in the White House with Bill. I don’t even think I need to go further. You said yourself, it was a “Clinton co-presidency”. No one disputes that Hillary wasn’t a traditional First Lady. to marginalize that now is simply sexist from all fronts.

That being said, I like Barack. I think his message is very inspiring. But , I think voters should take pause at someone who’s claim to fame is delivering a great speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. Any quarterback can give a good pep talk, but in the end you do have to go in and play the game. We can't have another President-in-Training. Although Barack won't even make it there, because Republicans will eat him alive.

Let’s not make the same mistake. I believe Bush was pretty charismatic and told how he was gonna unite the country and bring back honor and morals to the White House. We see where that got us.

I agree wholeheartedly with your closing statement and that’s exactly why we need Hillary Clinton ‘08.

Ron   December 29th, 2007 11:45 pm ET

I'm puzzled by Senator Clinton's contention that she draws upon 16 years of "election" experience. The truth is she has run for office twice, in a state where she had not even achieved residency until the last year she supposedly lived in the White House. I am mystified that Senator Clinton continues to claim credit for her husband's presidency when by all accounts she was "never in the room" and had no security clearance. Senator Obama's point about half the country being against Mrs. Clinton is a true statement according to every poll taken of late. Highlighting that fact when speaking on the topic of electability is not an example of dirty politics.

Vic Novosad, Sugar Land, TX   December 29th, 2007 11:42 pm ET

To Cat: You rightly pointed out that Obama listens only to his wife and Oprah. But please allow me to add the name of another he listens to: He's the person who offered Obama advice on how to beat Hillary. Remember? Now THAT is really scary!

MG   December 29th, 2007 11:36 pm ET

Top 10 Contradictions in Obama

1. [Obama on Not just change political party but change the game and players in Washington] Then why play the same game at all with the same players whose support he now seeks? Does he realize that while his rhetoric may be ideal, it's not the pragmatic necessary and urgent issue/call for America at this time?

2. [Obama on the right kind and wrong kind of experience] Obama does not realize that what he has is the POTENTIAL to have the right kind of experience. Unfortunately, now is not the time and the Oval Office is not the place to be earning and learning that experience. No president can be perfect but America cannot go from one extreme (GWBush) to another extreme (BHObama). The experienced person can fail and there is greater probability that an Inexperienced person would fail.

3. [Obama on judgment] One judgment call on the Iraq issue does NOT mean Obama would have good judgments on a gamut of complex issues. From what's been reported he has avoided making a vote on crucial issues. And he only has very limited experience to showcase an array of judgment calls, which did not even do that except showcase tasks that he did just as he ought to. It's not a fair claim by Obama.

4. [Obama on the Iraq issue] America does not live by "Iraq" alone. It is not even a simple right or wrong issue. Lucky Obama - the present sentiment is just rendering him to seem right. If he has no concrete and significant experience in the world stage and security matters, it would indeed be a gamble to have him as president.

5. [Obama on the establishment] How can Obama posture to bring a new face and a new way in the establishment when he brings with him a circle of close advisers and staff from the Clinton administration? Employing “Clinton minds” around him means he embraces the Clinton policies.

6. [Obama on his policies] His policies are hybrids from policies that have been strongly initiated by and identified with his rivals. He talks of what’s wrong with past policies and other candidates’ policies but does not have an original policy of his own. He wants people to look only to the future because he has INsufficient past to substantiate the rhetoric he gives in the present.

7. [Obama on hope] It will be unfair to speak of hope that does NOT rest on substance and can NOT stand on a concrete relevant experience to make it happen. That would be tantamount to a manipulation of a people's desperation.

8. [Obama on triangulation] He is equally guilty of triangulating. Most of the time he draws the first snipe and criticism. Then he complains of negativity when his rivals counter his (and his campaign’s) attacks. And at worst, he speaks in abstracts and generalities which give him room to parse. But his motives remain equally questionable.

9. [Obama on character] Other candidates have been in public eye longer than he has. Naturally there is more to be played up about their faults and failings. But it does not mean Obama has a better character than the rest. He simply is an unknown character. Perhaps his eagerness to be elected now has much to do with that - for time might soon catch up with his closet and be found more lacking in character. If that happens, the presidency would be more difficult for him to win.

10. [Obama on family values] It is good that he has not yet gone through serious marital and family problems. It’s expected given that he’s young and his marriage is new. But there is much more that can be said about family values with Hillary – forgiving an unfaithful husband that mirrors her capacity to heal a nation’s wounds – raising a decent daughter that mirrors her capacity to restore respectability to America – showing personal strength and discipline that mirrors her capacity to be commander-in-chief – keeping generational bonds in the family that mirrors her capacity to inspire bipartisanship.

Obama may be good and experienced enough for Illinois but not yet for America.

xtina chicago IL   December 29th, 2007 11:35 pm ET

The threads quoting Obama and Hillary are about useless information and drama. Both of them are drama queens. Can someone name specific accomplishments either Obama or Hillary has that shows leadership and difficult decision-making ? Sitting on a committee and getting money for their state doesn't count. Im talking running things. NO, neither has that kind of experience. How can any voter take either of these seriously?

Gov Romney is an expert on financials, he'd be best for economic matters. He took a bankrupt organization and put in the black. Neither Hillary nor Obama have any idea how to go about this, they have no clue and only know hitting the taxpayers for more money. Why would we want that out of a President?

Mayor Guiliani reduced crime by over 50 percent in NY. That's an amazing and almost unbelievable accomplishment. Can someone name an accomplishment that was as difficult as either of these two achievements by Romney and Guiliani?

MG   December 29th, 2007 11:34 pm ET

[It's now or perhaps never, Obama and his wife, Michelle, concluded, because, "We still remember what it's like to be normal," he told a crowd here six days before Iowa's first-in-the-nation caucuses.] There you go… straight from the horse’s mouth. And as the saying goes, “Out from the mouth comes what is in the heart.” What does the Obama statement imply?

Afterall that’s said and done, the fact is Obama does not have the character, the real calling, and the heart to lead America because he cannot and will not endure in the face of defeat.

He is a plain opportunist seizing only the moment when as an unknown, his blunders are not yet much to be spoken of… seizing only the moment when as a dazzler, his fresh tactics could still work… seizing the moment when the rhetoric of hope would still work; for when the most experienced and steady President wins and delivers, what else can he talk about next time?

Obama does not consider the presidency worth pursuing at another time because he fears becoming “abnormal” in the course of waiting for his own time. That means Obama is not sure of who he is and therefore fears what he can become.
Obama is running for the presidency now, not because he is called for a vision, but because he is compelled by a favourable condition.

His candidacy is not about hope. His hope is about his candidacy.

BEAMON   December 29th, 2007 11:27 pm ET

The Republicans will nominate John McCain who will easily make Obama look like he is running for class president. The only Dem with a chance is Clinton.

David, Tallahassee FL   December 29th, 2007 11:18 pm ET

I used to be a Republican, but I had to switch to the Democrats after the Republicans became the Party of God and the Wealthy. But I shan't vote for Clinton, even though I'd hate to see the Republicans retain the White House.

David, San Diego, CA   December 29th, 2007 11:08 pm ET

I find it funny that people keep bringing up experience in this election. It was clear that Hillary Clinton voted for what was popular, even though she was advised by people at a gathering at her house the night before the Iraq vote.

Ken from San Diego asks the question of what Hillary has changed her position on. Her vote on the Iraq War is an easy one. A driver license for Illegal Immigrants is another.

Let's begin with the faults in her failed initiative to pass National Healthcare first time around while Bill Clinton was in office. First, she failed to bring to fact that most developed countries pay far more in taxes with so fewer tax loop holes for the rich. This in turn creates a larger separation of the distribution of wealth in this country. Second, her plan requires people to purchase healthcare; like people wouldn't purchase it if they could afford it.

The entire Healthcare system is a joke. When the government went to pass the Medicare Discount Card plan, there was major loophole in it for all the major retail pharmacies. It was a percentage discount. Therefore, all the drug companies & retail pharmacies had to do was inflate the retail price to such a rate that the prices were at the same level as before the discount card was even introduced.

Trust me when I say I saw this first hand while working for Walgreen’s. This same company would then spend over $100 million dollars lobbying against Americans going to Canada to get cheaper drugs. Funny, how that escaped the news after a while, huh?

Insurance companies can be trusted even less to maintain any ethics & true integrity. So, when Hillary goes to pass a bill allowing the companies to still exist & profit from honest, hard working Americans it lacks what the countries needs. That is a total make-over or REAL CHANGE.

Until then, the only change we might be lucky to see with Hillary in office is maybe a little better legislation in regards to global warming & someone who is more fiscally conservative then the current administration & congress of the past. Which isn’t too hard since President Bush is the most wasteful president in the history of the United States!

WP, Phoenix, AZ   December 29th, 2007 10:31 pm ET

My biggest issue w/Clinton is her refusal to apologize for the Iraq war vote. Sound leadership includes the willingness to accept responsibility when you're wrong. At least Edwards admitted he was wrong. Obama, on the other hand, got it right from the start.

Denise, Phoenix, AZ   December 29th, 2007 10:21 pm ET

Hillary lives in her own little world–the one where the Republicans aren't going to bring out any of her dirt and baggage.

Their 2-for-1 strategy gets old after you see it enough times. I did not ask for 2-for-1 then, nor do I ask for it now. That's just the life-long Clinton strategy that moves Hillary into a position for which she is not qualified.

Every time Bill moves up (think Gov of Arkansas), Hillary moves up with him (think Attorney General of Arkansas). Bill moves up again (think President of the US); Hillary moves up with him (think US Senate). See the pattern, women?

Consider what America got with the first Clinton co-Presidency:

• Abuse of the powers of the office of the President
• Granting Presidential pardons to buy Hillary's election to the Senate. As a woman who made it on my own, Hillary's need to ride Bill's coattails and her sense of entitlement makes me doubt her capabilities.
• Hillary's long-suffering marriage to Bill, enabling a lifetime of sexual trysts and trying to contain the Bimbo eruptions, gives me a President without the backbone to stand up to a man. Hillary claims to be tough enough to play with the boys when, in fact, she is unable to leave a cheating husband. How will she stand up to other male leaders who see this in "Mrs." Clinton and walk all over her?
• Being married to a former President does not make one qualified to be President.
Hillary has less experience in elected office than Barack. She's held elected office for one Senate term plus one year and has introduced no major legislation during that time. Is this the kind of experience we want in the Oval Office?

I am not a "Hillary hater;" I am an America lover. Please consider very carefully which candidate the Democratic Party puts on the ballot. The future of this country absolutely depends on it.

Larry Buchas, New Britain, CT   December 29th, 2007 10:12 pm ET

"We are less likely to win an election that starts off with half the country not wanting to vote for that candidate," Obama said Saturday at an event in Madison.

Right On!

NO CANDIDATE HAS EVER WON THE PRESIDENCY WITH SUCH HIGH NEGATIVITY PERCENTAGES. There are Democrats out there refusing to support her.

Hillary supported Bush on Iraq. Obama accurately predicted what would happen in Iraq & the instability in Pakistan. So who has the best foreign policy credentials? Let's fix the problem. No more Bush & Clinton deception & division.

Max   December 29th, 2007 10:06 pm ET

Clintons are beautiful but its time for change hillary already been in the white house for 8 years.

Go Obama

Max   December 29th, 2007 9:51 pm ET

Its time too sensor tv.

Go Obama

PS: President Bush is a good President.

Kevin, Landover, MD   December 29th, 2007 9:45 pm ET

To Steve,

The World has lost a true Warrior for piece and democracy in the world with the assassination of Benazir Bhutto.

It was BAD Judgment for Benazir Bhutto to stand outside the sunroof of her fortified car. Even though she had vast experience in politicking in the public eye.

It is not a very nice thing to say at this time. But it is the truth and emphasizes that Good Judgment trounces experience.

Obama had GOOD Judgment to oppose the war in Iraq and Hillary and Edwards voted for it. As with Benazir Bhutto (may she rest in piece) you do NOT get a do over with bad judgment.

dustin   December 29th, 2007 9:44 pm ET

RE: Bill Clinton never winning majority of popular vote. That's pretty funny. You know, I didn't vote for Bill Clinton because I was too young to vote (both times). However, my memory, unlike that of the person making this comment, has not been affected by dementia. Bill Clinton DID win the popular vote both times. And as I recall, the electoral vote was pretty much a landslide both times. Take some gingko biloba before trying to change history next time.

BTW, Hillary Clinton is SCUM. Obama's the man. Obama is the ONLY candidate who has been talking about changing Washington's ways from the get go. Hillary only started talking about it recently because Obama is threatening her in a serious way. Anyone who votes for Hillary needs to have their head examined. She doesn't have any experience running an organization, so she can't claim she's better than Obama there. Also, experience doesn't really matter. The sitting president will surround himself with advisors who will do most of his work for him anyway, and he'll make his decisions largely based on that advice.
VOTE SMART, and don't vote for Hillary.

julie slc ut.   December 29th, 2007 9:32 pm ET

Any one who can survive the Clinton Slime Machine deserves to be elected.

Hillary can't win the general.

OBAMA IS THE MOST ELECTABLE, Hillary is the LEAST electable.

http://blogs.usatoday.com/onpolitics/2007/12/zogby-obama-is.html

Scott, Madison, WI   December 29th, 2007 9:24 pm ET

Hello Jack!

Maybe this "one segment of our society" has been misrepresented and undercut throughout our nation's history, especially when it comes to pursuing anything remotely resembling "white". I really think that the policy is not meant to be exclusionary but rather focused on equality for that particular group of individuals and the people they represent. It's not like the black community at large has been welcomed into every organization with open arms!

Why is it always the perception that when you are FOR something, it automatically makes you AGAINST the diametric opposite?

Scott, Des Moines, Iowa   December 29th, 2007 9:13 pm ET

Ginny, Byron, CA

Very well input !
"The headline says "Clinton, Obama hit each other on electability". It should read, "Obama hits Clinton on electability and Clinton responds".

Max   December 29th, 2007 9:04 pm ET

Barack will be the nominee period.

BeckyB   December 29th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

Steve, did you by any chance watch Barack Obama's CNN interview on the same subject? If you had you would not be so impressed with Hillary. She is a con!
He had complete, concise and correct thinking regarding Pakistan! Check it out.

Sledge   December 29th, 2007 8:44 pm ET

I just love it when Obama goes after Hillary. Every time he tries to attack Hillary, she then responded and dust him out. He is so not in Hillary's league.

Tom, San Leandro, CA   December 29th, 2007 8:42 pm ET

Obama will lose, Hillary will win, and our nation will finally start healing after the years of destruction by Bush & Co.
GO, HILLARY, ALL THE WAY!!

Lady Eagle   December 29th, 2007 8:15 pm ET

From what I have heard and read, the republican senators who distrusted Sen. Clinton before she went to the senate have nothing but praise and admiration for her. She has worked with several of them across party lines to get things done.

I am a registered independent, and I am not voting against anyone in this election. I am voting for Sen. Hillary Clinton because I believe she will do an excellent job as president.

Jack   December 29th, 2007 8:12 pm ET

On the recent assassination of Benazir Bhutto, just about every presidential candidate prefaced their remarks with "we should not politicize this tragedy", then went on to say how they would be the ideal person to lead the United States in foreign policy matters. The only exception was Mike Huckabee, he was furiously searching the world map trying to locate Pakistan.

Steve   December 29th, 2007 8:06 pm ET

Hillary won my vote with her Wolf Blitzer interview on Pakistan. The woman knows the facts, knows the players, knows the realities of politics. Obama is a neat idea, but he can't hold a candle to her experience and intelligence and grasp of the issues.

Jack   December 29th, 2007 8:03 pm ET

Barak Obama is the only U.S. Senator to belong to the Congressional Black Caucus. This organization refuses to allow membership to non blacks. Why should voters elect a person who espouses to represent all the people, yet belongs to a group that is dedicated solely to the self interests of one segment of our society?

kabanda Alexandre   December 29th, 2007 8:03 pm ET

Clintons' time is over and we should move on. Obama is the only democrat that will bring change to America. He is capable of uniting the country; He is the only one who has opposed the Iraq invasion since the beginning; We have lost billions and billions dollars on War in Iraq instead of focusing on the war against terrorists in Afghanistan and elsewhere. I have long thought about who to give my voice but I have come to that conclusion that Obama is ready to defend American interests and restore the image of our country

Kevin, Landover, MD   December 29th, 2007 7:49 pm ET

1. Obama polls as the ONLY Candidate that beats ALL Republicans in a General Election match up.

2. Edwards has NO money to compete in the primary even if he won Iowa.

3. Hillary is hated by half the Country at the start of a General Election contest. She will motivate and bring out EVERY Republican, Independent and Democrat that already despise her. To vote against her and she WILL lose the General Election to a Republican.

If this were football we would pick the BEST Quarterback to WIN the SEASON & SUPERBOWL and match up data supports that he can BEAT ALL the opponents.

We would not pick a quarterback based on he has a family member who once played for the team or that he could win us just ONE game.

Average Joe in America   December 29th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

From the headlines and the comments everyone would assume that we are voting for Senior Class Prom King and Queen? Whatever happened to the issues and the platforms - instead of most likeable and most popular or even the class clown?

And to Jen Cedar Falls, IA "BBBRRRRR, it's cold just thinking about her." = better put some more wood on the fire and try wearing a little lip gloss for the chapped lips if you wanna catch a fella ;)

BTB from reading these statements it's clear that most folks have no idea what "their party's" platforms stand for?! A "GOP" who would vote for a "Democrat" or vice versa is actually either a Moderate or doesn't care for the strict party platforms. Too bad the majority of 3rd party candidates who usually run as "Independents" are either FAR-right or FAR-left instead of IN THE MIDDLE or a moderate which the majority of Americans are actually becoming. Maybe some day our ship will come in.

Cat   December 29th, 2007 7:29 pm ET

I support Hillary Clinton. I think she will try to get our country back on track. I also think she will have good people on her team with experience.

Obama is new with little experience. I think he listens to Oprah and Michele.
I also think he lied about missing "100″ votes. That doesn't look good for a JR Senator. He conveniently misses votes when they may be "controversial", this way he can say He did not vote for it. Just as the IRAQ vote. He was not in the Senate at the time and was not eligible to vote for it, nor did he has access to the report on that vote.
He is a good person, just not the person who I think should be President.
I also think he insulted the other Senators who may have voted on the "100″ votes he missed, by calling them all "unconstitutional". I will never believe the Congress wasted all that time voting on "100″ unconstitutional bills.

Joe Biden would be my second choice.

Ben   December 29th, 2007 7:22 pm ET

Ken-
Those comments of switching positions were not directed at Hilary, but at Edwards, and are becoming increasingly true over the past campaign run. Read the entire article more thuroughly before you keep accusing somebody of being slimy.

Ann31   December 29th, 2007 7:18 pm ET

I have lived here in DC during the Bush, Clinton, Bush eras and have seen "politics as usual" up close for too long. Those administrations gave us a failed health care policy that set us back for more than a decade, a series of demoralizing scandals, and an unnecessary war in Iraq that will set us back for more that a decade to come. We need someone who doesn't represent special interests, who doesn't talk in sound bites, who can answer questions that aren't scripted and actually talk to Republicans. We want someone who understands the nuances of the issues and who is willing to tackle the issues whether they are popular or not. We need someone who doesn't just want to win at all costs. We want someone who is willing to serve this country and all of its people. Barack Obama is the only candidate who has the intelligence, honesty, and moral judgment to lead this country in these difficult times. Mrs Clinton is just that - Mrs Clinton. She has not accomplshed anything on her own and I for one do not want her and all of her baggage inlcuding Bill in the White House again

tina, ny, ny   December 29th, 2007 7:13 pm ET

Here goes again- OBAMA the slime ball. This guys is sounding more phony each day. Well he could hide behind pretense for so long.

Grant Devereaux   December 29th, 2007 7:12 pm ET

OBAMA IS SO RIGHT - Half the country will not vote for Hillary - and the other half, or maybe the same half, won't vote for him either. The smart money is on Edwards - or even Biden. OBAMA AND HILLARY bring too much political baggage to a very partisan nation. Edwards does not turn off moderate republicans, and is well received by democrats and independents. His numbers in republican match-ups are far better than any other democrat.

If Democrats want to lose, they can follow the path they did in 2004 and nominate another Northern liberal that half the country will despise. From Dukakis to Kerry - Democrats have shown an incredible capacity for self-destruction. I can only pray they do not do it again! If they do, I'm voting for Ron Paul - as the Republican or libertarian nominee - or even a write in.

Mati   December 29th, 2007 7:04 pm ET

Tom, Hastings
Its is a stupid thing to talk indefinitely about "Sen. Clinton thinks she can win is to divide the country and call any opposition "the Republican attack machine."

On the campaign trail, candidates point to differences, attract supporters, tell people who they are and why are they different. This is not aimed at 'dividing the nation' or avoiding bi-partisan work as many insinuated stupidly lately. It is absolutely unfair to treat Hillary Clinton with these kind of words when on the other hand many admit she is close to centre when it comes to policies. Hillary's behavior is the less divisive .. it is your stupid preconception that insists otherwise.

What Obama claims about electability is based on the same 'hope, change, likable, fresh' discourse that means demagogy and lack of substance.

Hillary is electable and will win both the primaries and the general election.

Hillary'08!

John   December 29th, 2007 7:00 pm ET

Polarization is killing our country. How many of you know and love someone who is a member of the opposing party? What Obama understands that none of the other candidates do is this:

Our politicians are divided; our country is not. There IS a majority in this country, it just isn't represented in Washington.

We can't survive another 8 years of bitter divisiveness in Washington. We can't survive 28 years with only 2 families in power. We can't survive Hillary Clinton.

Obama/Edwards in 2008!

Rosemary   December 29th, 2007 6:58 pm ET

Why is it problem when Obama brings up Clinton's electability? Chris Dodd said in a National Debate that 50% of the country will not vote for her. No other candidates' words are speaking the truth? But yet when Obama says it, it is a SLAM as reported by the News Media and Pundits.

Can we see some balance here people (News Media) She does not have to call Obama's name. She is not currently running against anyone else but Obama. Everyone is running against the mess of the Bush Administration so that is a no-brainer.

Rosemary   December 29th, 2007 6:56 pm ET

Why is it problem when Obama brings up Clinton's electability? Chris Dodd said in a National Debate that 50% of the country will not vote for her. No other candidates' words are as speak the truth? But yet when Obama says it, it is a SLAM as reported by the News Media and Pundits.

Can we see some balance here people (News Media) She does not have to call Obama's name. She is not currently running against anyone else but Obama. Everyone is running against the mess of the Bush Administration so that is a no-brainer.

Nancy, Dallas TX   December 29th, 2007 6:56 pm ET

Obama's dirty politicking is relentless. Politics as usual, regardless that he professes to be "fresh". He is as smarmy and slick-talking as they come.

Is it not so utterly obvious that he is but an ambitious, opportunist with NO QUALIFICATIONS OR EXPERIENCE??

The Democrats are less likely to win an election that starts off with 75% of the country knowing the candidate is unsuitable. The only thing he offers is rhetoric.

Obama is a turn-off even to Democrats. He can't even garner the support of a majority of his own party - what chance would he have against Rudy Giuliani or Mitt Romney?? They will chew him up and spit him out.

Serious Democrats with an interest in having a capable leader rather than an orator will cast votes for the Republican candidate. That's what I plan to do in the unfortunate event it become necessary.

Peter   December 29th, 2007 6:55 pm ET

Ken, why don't you tell us what you really feel about Obama? Stop being coy. Did you really say that his speeches were SLIMY? Have you been listening to what the other candidates have been saying, including the person that you are supporting? By the way, was Clinton for the war before she was against it?

FSP   December 29th, 2007 6:52 pm ET

Ken, the report didn't say anything about Hillary changing her positions, those comments were directed to John Edwards, but as usual Hillary supporters read what they want into everything. As for me, I've voted Dems for the past 16yrs,however, I will not ever vote for Hillary Clinton. Never! Put it this way I would rather vote for Bush (if he could run again) rather than vote for Hillary. That should be commentary enough. Believe me, most of the people I know would say something less radical, but they sure will never vote for Hillary either.

Peter   December 29th, 2007 6:51 pm ET

Ginny, from Byron, I hope that you had similar criticism of the Clinton campaign when there was an inference that Obama may have sold cocaine. They tried to pass it off by saying that he raised the issue in his book. However, he only said that he had used some drugs. he never implied that he sold any. If you believe that many of his opponents, in both parties did not do the same thing that he admitted to, I have some swamp land to sell you that is ideal to build on. At least he was honest about what he did. I think honesty is an admirable quality in anyone, especially politicians.

Let the Leaders Lead, Arcadia, Iowa   December 29th, 2007 6:46 pm ET

What a lot of Chest beating on the part of both candidates. Hillary has 16 years of experience or was she just the wife of the president?? The time is now and all the national polls have it right on who the most electable Democratic candidate is, John Edwards. Enough said, see you on caucus night.

Jaime Scottsdale,AZ   December 29th, 2007 6:42 pm ET

Check out the newest endorsement in New Hampshire. And it doesn't have BO either. And to your claim in MN, Tom, that you have never heard a REPUBLICAN say that they would vote for Hillary…speak for yourself and MN. There are a lot here in AZ and not so far away in TX that are backing her 100 percent!

HRC in 08!

Over the Meadow   December 29th, 2007 6:42 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton claims experience, but she has no more experience than my grandmother. Her experience is having the same name as Bill for the previous 30+ years. Her negatives FAR outweigh her positives.

Mrs. Clinton doesn't seem to understand. I hear she is an intelligent woman, but she doesn't seem to understand she CANNOT win. I am a YELLOW DOG DEMOCRAT, and I wouldn't vote for her if my life depended upon it.

Kim, Los Angeles, CA   December 29th, 2007 6:38 pm ET

DUH..REPUBLICANS SAY THEY WOULD VOTE FOR OBAMA AND NOT CLINTON BECAUSE THEY ARE PRAYING FOR OBAMA TO GET THE DEMOCRAT NOMINATION. THEY KNOW THAT ANY OF THE REPUBLICANS CAN BEAT OBAMA AND ARE HOPING HE GETS THE NOMINATION. IT IS HILLARY THAT THEY ARE SCARED OF. SENATOR CLINTON IS THE ONLY DEMOCRAT THAT WILL DEFEAT ANY OF THE REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES. THE REPUBLICANS KNOW THIS. THANKFULLY, SO DO MOST DEMOCRATS. THAT IS WHY HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT.

Tyler in Raleigh, NC   December 29th, 2007 6:36 pm ET

When has Hillary faced the "attack machine", in NY?

That is very different than a NATIONWIDE election. She has never faced that, again HER HUSBAND the FORMER President did. Hillary seems confused about who was elected in 92 and 96…. she seems to think SHE was elected President and gained "experience" from it.

I am a Libertarian, usually lean towards Republicans (excpet Bush in 04). I would vote for Obama over any Republican except perhaps Giuliani or McCain (probably still). I would NEVER vote for Clinton and would vote for any Republican candidate rather than have any Clinton/Bush again.

I think that is the problem that Clinton does not see. A lot of Democrats and Independents that would NEVER vote for Clinton… but would seriously consider Obama versus Romney or Huckabee.

Gil - California   December 29th, 2007 6:34 pm ET

It is not the Republican attack machine you should be concerned about Hillary, it is the Democrats who will never vote for you in a million years. My candidate does not have to win for me to vote democrat as long as our nominee isn't you!

Len, Fallbrook, CA   December 29th, 2007 6:30 pm ET

The frontrunners……….

Omama Barack

Shys away from making decisions by voting "present" if he even shows up for the vote.
No real world experience at anything significant.
Open borders amnesty supporter which 75% of the voting public (remember us?) do not support.
Nice cute remarks but without substance.
Excellent track record of spending other peoples' (taxpayer, remember us?) money.

Hillary Clinton

Experience by osmosis.
No real world experience at anything significant.
Votes according to the polls
Open borders amnesty supporter which 75% of the voting public (remember us?) do not support.
Excellent track record of spending other peoples' (taxpayer, remember us?) money.

John Edwards

Open borders amnesty supporter which 75% of the voting public (remember us?) do not support. Also supports in state tuition for illegal immigrants.
Nothing else comes to mind.

Sad, very sad, and the GOP slate is not much better

Tom, Hastings, MN   December 29th, 2007 6:25 pm ET

There she goes again. The only way Sen. Clinton thinks she can win is to divide the country and call any opposition "the Republican attack machine." She wonders why people call her a polarizing figure - all she needs to do is listen to what she is saying.

We've had enough of the red state/blue state, us vs. them politics that the Clintons and Bushes have "thrived" on (to use her word).

Our nation needs to find common ground with a candidate who doesn't have half of the country already saying they would "never" vote for them.

Barack Obama is the only candidate who has cross-over appeal nationwide to many Independents and Republicans. I know many Republicans who say they would vote for Obama but NEVER for Hillary Clinton.

Obama '08!

BeckyB   December 29th, 2007 6:22 pm ET

Just say no to Hillary and Edwards. They are flooding Iowa with big money donors as we speak, i.e. 527's, and then toughting their ability to fight special interests and lobbyists? Give me a break. I, for one, am not fooled. We need a NEW direction and a TRUTHFUL President. No more lies, no more games, no more hype!!

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT 08!

Linoq   December 29th, 2007 6:19 pm ET

Ken

Who Obama was refering to was Edwards when he said about changing positions after 4 years… Edwards the phony democratic candidate. The phony Republican is Romney. By the way if you want experience vote Dodd he has much more experience than Clinton. Even Biden has more experience. Want another Bush? Vote Giuliani. Want good Judgement? Obama. Want a good republican? McCain. This is your election 2008 factsheet….

Grace Smith, Charlton, SC   December 29th, 2007 6:18 pm ET

In 2004, Democrats lost because they nominated a candidate who voted for the war before he voted against it. You can change your positions on torture, social security, drivers licence, etc as Hillary has done, but there are no do-overs on something as fundamental as war. That's the biggest probem with Hillary and Edwards. We can't go down that road again.

You would expect that Hillary would have the conscience to at least read the NIE before being an accomplice to the death of 4000 American soldiers. Those who are supporting Clinton should think about thousands of orphans and widows and families that have lost an only child in Iraq, etc and make sure that they can live with that decision in their conscience. I know there is a God and he watches us.

ava   December 29th, 2007 6:17 pm ET

Ken, San Diego, CA - you must not be paying attention to your own candidate:

Hillary flip-flops/mistakes:

Iraq - Hillary votes for a resolution entitled "Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution", and tell us she was under the impression that she was voting for "diplomacy"

Social Security - She tells an audience member at a speech that she plans to increase taxes to fund social security, but then in the Oct. 30th Philadelphia debate, she says no to taxes and and that she "won't balance social security on the backs of the middle class."

Releasing papers from her archives - she says it's up to Bill, but Bill wrote a letter to the archives telling them not to release ANY of Hillary's documents until AFTER the elections.

Healthcare - She says her plan covers everyone because of its mandate but fails to note that many things that are mandated (i.e. FORCED) don't ensure universal coverage - e.g. the MA healthcare initiative, car insurance, etc. Supposedly, miraculously just because she says its mandated, that will "ensure" 100% coverage.

I could go on and on. Hillary is full of it.

Sara Fulkner   December 29th, 2007 6:13 pm ET

My Dad and I caught more fish than the legal limit one time and stopped at a store afterwards to get a soda. The clerk asked how the fishing was and my dad said we caught ten(the legal limit). I blurted out, "Ah, Dad we caught more than that!"

In Bullitt, Steve McQueen is cop responsible for watching a gangster who will be turning state's evidence and who is killed in his custody. Instead of turning the body over, McQueen's character hustle's the body off under the cover of darkness in order to investigate further. (It's a complicated plot).

Now just maybe: Since it looks fairly obvious what the cause of death was and since nobody believes the official story, the regime may be trying to drive up some chatter by saying, "You have missed your target." This might be a stall tactic to get the investigation into high gear.

Talk about political theatre…not the way we do things,,,but…they can regret the official statement later.

Melissa   December 29th, 2007 6:12 pm ET

Read the article. It clearly states that Obama's comments about positions having changed from 4 years ago were aimed at Edwards, not at Hillary.

CensoredByCNN, Roxboro, NC   December 29th, 2007 6:11 pm ET

Although a lifelong democrat, I'll be looking hard at Dr Paul this go around. He's the only guy who seems to get it. If the other candidates and the administration had any sense at all, they'd interpret the money raised by Paul as a sign of what people really want. There's a lot of us out here who are tired of working ourselves to death for the sake of empty promises and corporations.
It's time for a radical change,,,honest government and ethical business operators!!

Now that would be different!

s.positive   December 29th, 2007 6:08 pm ET

Sorry GUYs but common sense tells me that supporting somebody with a high negativity is a gurantee for a loss so my vote moves on…

Geoff Osborne, Cincinnati, OH   December 29th, 2007 6:06 pm ET

Ken,

I think the changing positions over 4 years was a dig at Edwards more so than Clinton. Because Edwards did not want Universal Healthcare in 2004 and was not so aggressive towards special interests groups in 2004.

I happen to agree with Hillary that she has been through the Republican machine and that everyone already knows all of her flaws and everything. The Republicans do not have anything new to bring up against her.

With that said, I am supporting Obama for the primaries but if Hillary happens to win, then I will certainly support her in the general.

Mark, Des Moines IA   December 29th, 2007 6:05 pm ET

Obama intends to bridge the gap divide between Republicans and Democrats. How can Hillary bring people together when she constantly refers to Republicans as "them" or "the Republican attack machine." When it comes down to it, Hillary can't win. Come next November, I will vote for any Republican over Hillary. I do not want my country ruled by two families for potentially 28 years. She is no more experienced then Obama. She is older in age, that is all. I will caucus for the man who I feel can finally restore Americas image abroad and bring consensus and change to a country that is floundering in lies and political obscurity.

localjim, Ft. Lauderdale, Fl   December 29th, 2007 6:00 pm ET

What we know of you Hillary is that your dispicaple and as far as America is concerned you and the Groper can just go away. We want real change and that means out with you and in with new.
You have withstood nothing cause you refuse to answer the allegations of you not wanting to turnover documented materials from your so called experience in the white house. You have sat there and played arrogant just like George Bush. You were an inept senator that did nothing for th state of NY other than show up for the naming of a half dozen buildings.
Your foreign policy is nothing more than being a high profile socialite. What would you know of the suffering in Pakistan, Darfur or any other 3rd world country.
At least Senator Obama got involved in helping those in Darfur. The man has more dignity and compassion than you and the Groper combined. Senator Obama has the integrity to not pander to every voter then be a do nothing as you have.
Please if you really love this country then bow out.
You will do nothing for this country but keep us divided, maintain the status quo and line your pockets with some other scam of you and the Groper. Plus we dont want to see that husband of yours embarass us any further.
There is a reason you were voted scariest costume during Halloween. YOUR SCARE US!!

Biggdawg   December 29th, 2007 5:55 pm ET

She didn't hit him so much as she defended herself against his desperate attack. The Headline should have been "Clinton Beats Back Obama Attack on Electability".

Mike   December 29th, 2007 5:55 pm ET

Both Clinton and Obama will lose the election.

Obama plans to run the country on on his 'gut feel' and the people he surrounds himself with. We ar witnessing the tail end of an administration based on that crap and noone will want another round. Granted, trading Bush and Cheney for Obama and Oprah is an upgrade, but we need to raise the bar a bit more if we plan to fix the mistakes of the Bush years.

Hillary will just rebuild her husband's polical machine and we'll be stuck wih different version of the Bush machine - a different set of corporate special interests that will take our hard earned tax dollars. I think most of America is tired of the Bushes and Clintons.

Chris S - Gerald, MO   December 29th, 2007 5:54 pm ET

"Unfortunately that is the barrier that you have to overcome," she added. "What you know with me, I have already overcome it. I have withstood it, and not only survived it but thrived over the last 16 years. So there is very little guess work." ~HRC

Yes Hillary, we know. Every time the wind changed direction, so did your position, and that is how you overcame barriers. Always aligning yourself with the GOP consensus. And yes, you did well for yourself. And while I am glad you were able to "thrive", the rest of the nation has suffered, and it is time we be enabled to thrive as well. Unfortunately with you, we will get more of the same for the next 4 years, elitist profiteering. Hillary, your mask is slipping off, and as for your house-of-cards… The real winds of change are blowing ——– EDWARDS '08.

Think outside the box.
EDWARDS '08

Jen Cedar Falls, IA   December 29th, 2007 5:51 pm ET

Marriage unites 2 people into 1. That's the way it is, like it or not. Hillary and Bill have had their 8 years in the White House and it's time for our country to move on. Kennedy's, Bush's, Clintons, come on folks, it's time for some new blood. Our founding fathers may be rolling in their graves over this possibility of a spouse of a former President taking office. It is just WRONG! btw, if Hillary's so worthy of the White House, why don't they 'unseal' the records/documents from Bill's 8 years there?
Hillary supporters, please list what she's actually succeeded at doing (other than campaigning and turning a cold shoulder to anyone who disagrees with her): I won't hold my breath.
BBBRRRRR, it's cold just thinking about her.

Ginny, Byron, CA   December 29th, 2007 5:41 pm ET

The headline says "Clinton, Obama hit each other on electability". It should read, "Obama hits Clinton on electability and Clinton responds". As usual, Obama strikes first and, when Hillary responds (not by denouncing Obama's electability, but by describing WHY she is electable), she is accused of "hitting" him on the issue. He brought it up, slammed her, and she responded by explaining why she's electable. So the press again gives Obama a pass on his dirty politicking, saying she suggested "Obama has yet to be tested". She did NOT suggest that; those listening may have inferred that because they know it's true. When will this guy start talking issues? It's 5 days till Iowa; he'd better break his endless assaults on the other candidates and start touting exactly WHY he is the most electable.

John, Pensacola   December 29th, 2007 5:39 pm ET

Funny, Senator Edwards is far more electable than either!

Adam, Pittsburgh PA   December 29th, 2007 5:37 pm ET

Half the country has vowed to vote against Hillary Clinton.

Bill Clinton never won a majority of the popular vote.

Why is Clinton being so selfish?

She can't win.

Ken, San Diego, CA   December 29th, 2007 5:19 pm ET

I'd like Obama to give us a list of the positions Hillary has changed on during the past 4-years. Please, do tell. Healthcare? No. The war in Iraq? No (please read her statements on the floor of the Congress prior to her vote). Social Security? No. Energy independence? No.

You know, I used to have some respect for Obama, but this recent stump speech of his is SLIMY. He is being directly and knowingly dishonest.

In addition, since he started his run for the presidency, his negatives have steadily risen (as is expected with all politicians in the public eye). Hillary's negatives are understandable. With that said, they are not at 50% (as he claims), they are closer to 44% (about the same as McCain).

Trang, Fremont, CA   December 29th, 2007 5:15 pm ET

Well, Hillary, you may just face the Republican attack machine then, but it could be that you win because many feel sorry for you after what Bill did to you.

This time, it's different. It's not only the Republicans will come out against you, the Democrats also are turned off by you.

I, for one, am one of those Democrats. The day you voted on the Iran situation is the day I withdraw my support. You have not learned the lesson. Obama, despite less time in office, have made all the right decision - well, as far as my values are concerned.

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