January 4, 2008
Posted: 06:33 AM ET
Senators Joe Biden and Chris Dodd will reportedly abandon their campaigns.

Senators Joe Biden and Chris Dodd abandoned their campaigns.

(CNN) — Delaware Sen Joe Biden and Connecticut Sen. Chris Dodd abandoned their bids for the Democratic presidential nomination Thursday night.

"I count the past year of campaigning for the presidency as one of the most rewarding in a career of public service. Unfortunately, I am withdrawing from that campaign tonight," Dodd said in an e-mail message sent to supporters tonight.

"But there is no reason to hang our heads this evening — only the opportunity to look towards a continuation of the work we started last January: ending the Iraq War, restoring the Constitution, and putting a Democrat in the White House. … You've been an invaluable ally in the battle, and I'll need you to stick by my side despite tonight's caucus results."

"I'm withdrawing from the presidential race, but let me assure you, we do not exit this race with our heads hanging," Dodd told his supporters Thursday night. "Rather, we do so with our heads very, very high."
Dodd received less than 1 percent in the Iowa caucuses, with 99 percent of precincts reporting.

The 5-term senator called his campaign "one of the most rewarding in my life of public service" and said the results, while not what he had hoped, "sent a clear message that his party is united in the belief that this nation needs change."

Biden sounded a similar note. In a speech before his supporters — who at one point chanted — "Joe, Joe," he said: "I ain't going away, let me make that clear." He said he had no regrets, and the reason he embarked on the campaign was because he believed in the nation. "There's no reason not to be happy," he said. "The promise of this nation is immense." He said he plans to return to the Senate as head of the Foreign Relations Committee.

Meanwhile, New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson — who will finish a distant fourth in Iowa, with roughly 2 percent of the vote — is staying in the race. "We are on the way to New Hampshire tonight. We plan to make this a referendum on the Iraq war. This is far from over," Press Secretary Tom Reynolds tells CNN's Suzanne Malveaux.

Richardson Communications Director Pahl Shipley confirms the news, adding that "New Hampshire is a new game. Every vote counts."

Related video: Biden drops out

Related video: Dodd drops out

– CNN's Mark Preston and John King

Filed under: Iowa • Joe Biden


Ann Aloha, PA   January 5th, 2008 11:31 am ET

I would have voted for either of them. I think they both are true democrats and both deserve a chance in the White House.
Joe Biden was my favorite mainly because he focused on his principles and somewhat respected Senator Clinton more than any other of the candidates. He appears to have a good soul and isn't affraid to hold people responsible…even President Bush.

Julie Overvig   January 5th, 2008 3:25 am ET

From the begining the media (print and TV coverage) has only showed us Clinton,Obama,Edwards which gave them higher poll numbers and more money in their campaigns. How do the other candidates compete when the playing field is so tilted from the begining. When they say the media picked the winners, I agree. The Republicans story is a little different, candidate Huckabee won in Iowa with no money but he had the secret ingredient for a Republican candidates, he played the "I believe in God more then you do card", then the media was forced to start showing him, and he won in a landslide. What a sad day in America…(They say Fox news is biased but aren't they all, shame on all of them) Joe Biden would of been a great President !

Robert in Delaware   January 5th, 2008 1:00 am ET

Steve Franks, your notion that we should place a classified ad for the next president, hyperbolic as you may have intended it, is ludicrous at best. Senator Biden has more experience dealing with the governments in the Middle East than almost any other viable presidential candidate and certainly more than any of the current presidential candidates in either party. His understanding of the intricacies of international relations far surpasses that of many lifelong foreign policy experts. He is the fourth most senior Democrat in the Senate having served there for 34 years, and for the past ten years he has been the ranking Democrat in the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. He was instrumental in pursuing the campaign against Milosevic and his proposals demonstrated his ability to leverage influence toward effective solutions involving NATO.

There are multiple branches contained within an effective means of securing our nation's future energy resources. Knowledge of the Middle East is, as you point out, beneficial. There is no candidate who is more qualified in this respect than Senator Biden. However, there are many other important elements of an effective policy which you somehow seem to have overlooked. Instead of continuing our dependency on foreign oil, we should begin to assess our own resources more seriously and, even better, accelerate the research and development of alternative, more environmentally friendly sources of energy. A knowledge of the Middle East should not be the only consideration in choosing the President of the United States. Rather, we should be looking for someone who can spearhead change in the very policies themselves, someone who can be innovative and effective in leading, someone who understands the needs of the American people as well as the situations across the rest of the world. Senator Biden's experience and proven leadership made him a wonderful candidate and it is unfortunate that he is no longer in the race.

Seam, Philly, Pa   January 4th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

People are crying about experience, but these candidates have old, status-quo, worn out experience. Their so-called experience gives us the same ways of thinking that Washington grooms them to be. Voters want real change, OBAMA 08!

Californian   January 4th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

I watched the coverage last night on Fox and saw Sean Hannity looking happier than he has looked in years. The Republicans want us to nominate Obama and they have been very open about it. They have repeatedly named him their favorite candidate. Look out people, why do you think that is true? As to those of you "independents" who will vote republican in the big election, I suspect you have long history of doing that anyway. As to the independent and republican votes Obama seems to pull now, well they will evaporate in the actual election and all become republican votes. I can't tell you how many "independents" I know who have told me about how they regretted voting for Regan, Bush, Bush, etc. after their guys screwed up the country and they wanted an excuse to back away and run from the blame. Obama's votes are fake, they are people voting to stop the best and toughest candidate from stepping up to win. I am also sick of this Clinton/Bush stuff. Clinton and Bush are as different as night and day. Mrs. Clinton is not Bill either. That combo stuff is Rove's work and a lot of you are falling for it. If you are naive enough to think any of the elected republicans in the house or senate will come together with Obama sing camp songs and fix the damage to our government's balance of powers or constitution they fought so hard to achieve, then you will get to keep the damaged constitution, system of gov., and loss of rights they crafted and you deserve that. I don't. I have never regretted my votes and I will continue to vote according to what's best for this nation not who might have a beer or party with me after work. I am also not voting on what people I hope my candidate will attract as they learn how to govern . I am voting on what I know they will do. My vote is for Hillary a woman who knows how to work and work hard for this country and its future.

badrudeen g juma   January 4th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

my comment to we are all american citzen this yeae in america only presdent mrs helery she can win ask why this 2008 year only helery can win alla gift to she to do ameican presdent no any body alla say iasm great to win this compain only mrs heilery not hilery but alla give to she big gift

Jeff W   January 4th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Good riddance – both of these clowns had as much of a chance of getting to the White House as my baseball glove.

Go G.O.P.!!!

Mike   January 4th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

I am still hoping for a Clinton/Biden ticket. I really liked Biden, but knew he probably wouldn't get the nomination because he didn't have the resources Edwards, Obama, and Clinton have.

I certainly hope Iowa doesn't set the standard for the nominees….Oh My!!! If our choices are Obama or Huckabee, our country is in trouble!!! Obama is too naive and inexperienced…not to mention, he is WAY to charismatic and draws people to him in a very eerie way if you ask me. Then you have the opposite with Huckabee…going to turn us into a country ruled by the church.

Barry, Miami, FL   January 4th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Kenny in Vero, I hope your predictions come true! People like Biden and Dodd and Richardson knew their odds. They are running for cabinet posts. Biden would make a good sec of Defense, Dodd or Richardson, sec of State. It's the team that the winning candidate assembles that makes it work. Look at the current team in office and you can see what NOT to do!

This is going to be a great election cycle! I may not move to Canada after all!

Anonymous   January 4th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Senator Biden please wait for a Veep offering. by Hillary or Obama.

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

What a Shame, VA   January 4th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Biden was the one democratic candidate that actually answered questions and expressed new ideas rather then deliver the easy runaround answer. Thank you Iowa for giving into the mainstream media hype of the big three rather than doing a little research and learning that Biden would be the best option. Now we are stuck with the polarizer that is Clinton, Obama the freshman, and Edwards the hypocrite. Such an embarrassment…The best choice remaining may very well be Ron Paul.

Muskego, Wisconsin   January 4th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

That's what the Right wing newspapers do. I have one question for you Obama people. What exactly is he experienced at ? I hear people from Illinois on C-Span and they say he did nothing for them. What experience does he have other than, "Fired Up ?" I'm for Edwards, certainly not Hillary. If we get Hillary it will be some of the same we have now. I have always been on the side of the Clinton's, not anymore. I have grandchildren that are draft age and Hillary will be another Bush. Please read and get educated before you vote for someone you don't know anyting about. That's how we got ourselves in the situation we are in now. We can't just look at the outside of a candidate, check their background.

john williams san diego, ca.   January 4th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

these two losers have always been losers

Mireille, Charlotte   January 4th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Mr. Biden impressed me at times

Dan, TX   January 4th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

So Clinton finishes third among democrats….How's she going to beat a republican?

From The North   January 4th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

If so many are for change why are so many supporting the candidates that
are void of experience?

How do you fathom your Candidate of Change is going to bring that change about when they don't have the experience or know how to do so???

You don't walk into a White House as President with virtually no experience, rub your Chrystal Ball, make a wish and watch it turn into reality!

Some of these comments really make me wonder if Americans even know what they want or what, better yet who, is best for America.

TRG - San Diego, CA   January 4th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

(Re: "Salita, SC") – First off, Obama is NOT Jimmy Carter and this is NOT 1980. This is post 9-11 America and Obama is NOT carrying the baggage of the failure to re-take the American hostages from Iran that (SINGULARLY) lost Carter the 1980 election. Obama has YOUTH going for him and a "fresh" perspective that is not Washington based.

For all those that think Hillary Clinton will drop out before the Democratic Convention, you are obviously not politically informed (or inclined) and are simply expressing personal feelings without any concept of how the American political game is played. That's why many Democrats feel "cheated" of the election by Bush in the last two elections. Those who feel cheated were not paying attention to REAL political strategy (as did Karl Rove) and simply making a lot of "noise" based on skewed personal views of "democracy". Suggestion: Go to your local community college and take an "Introduction to Political Science" class to LEARN how elections in America are ACTUALLY CONDUCTED. Or, better yet, go down to your local party HQ and actually PARTICIPATE in a campaign !! Then, perhaps, your views and commentary will make more sense as you attempt to persuade others to give your candidate a chance. That'll stop many of you from seeming to "blow a lot of hot air".

So, Salita inquires where can Obama get 270 E-votes? Good question… How about NY (from Hillary's base – if she does not get the nomination at the Democratic Party Convention), PA, NJ, NH, MA, CA (again from Hillary's base), OH, IL, FL, NC, SC, TN, WI, MI, MN, OK, NB, IA, MD, DE, GA, LA, MS, AL, WA, OR, NM, VT, ME, RI, CT, & HA for a start.

Those who comment against CNN (or other media sources) for "pre-selecting" winners ought to get with the times. Nobody is making you watch ONE media outlet in 2008. Obviously your post on the I/N shows you have the computer and the skills to find websites, so you have the ability to research ANY candidate through their own websites, blogs, other media and other fact-finding sites. Suggest you stop your whining like someone MADE you simply tune into and believe ONE set of "talking heads". There are enough outlets (Blogs, letters to editors, holding signs downtown at the TV stations) where you could've gotten your message out BEFORE any political event or circumstance. Just sounds like more "Move-On.Org" crying. Why not take a look at the scoreboard of success for that (or any other !) organization before you repeat some mindless nonsense. Think for yourself and increase your understanding of politics ! Some poor naive woman got on CNN whining about how she didn't feel the caucus process was "fair" during her FIRST time participating since nobody expressed the things she THOUGHT she ought to have heard on the candidates views. New people to the political process should simply SSLL (show up, shut up, listen & learn) during their first participation. Campaigns and elections are NOT about making one "feel good". They are about using a PROCESS – other than guns, bombs & violence – choose people we want in charge. Want "warm and fuzzy"? Go sit in a bookstore or watch a movie or TV.

"JB – Boston" has a GREAT idea of Obama & McCain. Too bad American politics (and we Americans…) think we MUST vote a "straight ticket" and NOT make the kind of noise that might get us the TWO BEST PEOPLE for the top job. This Hobson's choice (picking an IDIOT and friend) from ONE party is what kills us. (GHW Bush and QUALYE?; Nixon and AGNEW?; GW Bush & CHENEY?; Carter & MONDALE?; Truman & WHO??? – BARKLEY??)

Americans ought to DEMAND the right to split the final ticket and pick the BEST person we feel can fill the respective positions. But, again… that is NOT how the American political game is played…

Tom Edmonds   January 4th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I am Democrat and my choices were 1) Biden, 2) Clinton and 3) Richardson. Too bad Biden had to drop out!

If Obama gets the nomination, I will vote Republican.

David Birch, New Hampshire   January 4th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Iowa Democrats never picked a winner in the last six election cycles. Here in New Hampshire we are eagerly waiting to thrash that phoney and slimey Obama.

Tom   January 4th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

The last US Senator elected president was JFK. All of your presidents are former Governors. Your next president will be Huckabee, Romney or Richardson… Only Governors get in…… The old families make sure of it…. Gotta balance that power, as you would not want someone taking office with experience in how the congress works…..

Tom   January 4th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

As I read this story about Bush. I just don't understand why the USA media does not take him to task for everything that has happened in the past seven years. In places like Jakarta and Manila it is obvious why the local media does not take the leaders to task (Fear of being killed). But in the USA, it just seems like the press does not care much about their own country and whether the leaders are honest…….

M. Lou Madison, WI   January 4th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

He quit too early.

The enthusiasm of these early months will give way to serious thought as the November elections get closer. The economy will be worse, the world situation crazier, more people will have lost their homes. People's fear for the future will cause them to start thinking seriously about how their candidates will actually deal with those problems. That is when the experienced candidate floats to the top.

What options will the people have to choose from in November? Inexperience or religion.

Thanks Democrats and Republicans! Thanks for inbred political parties! Thanks for having primaries instead of having all the candidates names on the November ballot!
And most of all, thank you for supporting the candidates who can bring your "party" the most money.

Nice, Houston, Texas   January 4th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Obama/Biden, Obama/Dodd, Obama/Edwards 2008. Quality Folks, I'm proud. WHAT A GREAT GREAT SPEECH BY OBAMA last Night

Kevin, SF, CA   January 4th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Senator Biden, thank you for giving us hope by nailing the issues so dead on, the other candidates all exemplified you and borrowed liberally from your platform. Thank you for running a campaign full of candor and honesty. Thank you for continuing to protect this country and our troops and keeping the debate focused on that. I admire you and what you represent. Thank you for giving everyone here real hope.

alan   January 4th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Joe, I agree:
If Biden is out and Obama is the Democrat's candidate, then I go to McCain.

Patriot   January 4th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Obama is bad news friends.

Joe Vanderbosch, Appleton, WI   January 4th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Biden was the best chance the Democrats had. I hope he understands that there was/is a lot of supporters out there for him. Hillary is a distant second in my mind. And no true Biden supporter should even come close to backing Obama, who is nothing that Biden is.

I hate to say it, but I might just have to support McCain, the only candidate left who has what it takes to be President.

Fred   January 4th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Good riddance, losers.

Biden is a plagarizing lout, Dodd a cranky old man.

Angel, Los Angeles of Anaheim   January 4th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

How could anyone with any sense of reality vote for Huckleberry? Haven't we had enough of right wing christian crap in this country? Look where it has us an our toilet bowl economy. ENOUGH ALREADY PEOPLE!!!! STOP

AJ; Montpelier, VT   January 4th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

I cant believe that these two committed, honorable men are dropping out while the George W. Bush of the Democratic Party won!! Amazing. Hubris over substance seems to win every time in this country.

Ron, Oregon   January 4th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

To Howard Hewlett: Sorry, Buddy, our country needs more than a "charismatic leader to get us away from the Bush years". Screw charisma! We need a brilliant, hard-working leader who has the experience, guts, strength, and savvy to run this nation. Hillary has put forth a detailed agenda to improve the lives of all Americans and regain our respect around the world. And she knows how to get things accomplished in Washington. Hillary is exactly the person to "get us away from the Bush years", not Obama with his "charisma".

By the way, Howard, last night Obama won16 delegates to the national convention, Hillary 15, and Edwards 14. Hardly a mandate for Obama. In addition, Hillary trailed Edwards by 1/2 of a percent point , so basically, she tied for second place. This gives a strong finish for all 3 candidates and strong momentum for all of them heading into New Hampshire.

James   January 4th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

oh and obama can win the white vote…he just won a 97% white state.

…and 98% of those who won't vote for a black man will be voting in southern already red republican states, and will vote for the republican nominee regardless.

James   January 4th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

To Salita, SC

Obama is my 1st choice, McCain 2nd, Biden 3rd…the rest would be republicans

I am an Independent.

Obama is the most electable Democrat of the top 3 (and that is who matters now)…who have the same relative stance on issues

*He appeals to independents AND republicans
*Hillary Clinton has a ceiling of support and she has reached it. 50% of the country will not vote for her….this includes ALMOST ALL republicans, and many independents (including myself)….many democrats will also not vote for her.
*Obama is right to stress working across party lines. The only time massive legislative action in this country occurs is either
A) Thorugh Compromise (Obama)
B) Crisis (9/11, Great Depression) or
C) a Mandate Election (1932, 1964, 1980)—the democrats will not win a mandate with Hillary Clinton or John Edwards—good luck passing Health Care reform in bitter fights with the Republicans

In response to your question about winning states Carter did not in 1980….
I don't know why you chose that year and that election.

Carter lost a landslide to one of the most charismatic candidates of all time (Reagan), and did so after he struggled in his four yrs in office.

Lets compare it with 2004….when I VOTED BUSH
Obama can win Ohio (my home state), and Florida with votes from independents and a solid democratic base. Hillary certainly can't. Edwards has a slightly better chance.

and a note on experience:
Abraham Lincoln 1860—- 2 yrs House of Reps, 8 yrs Ill State Legislature
Obama 2008- 3 yrs U.S. Senate (by election), 8 yrs Ill State Legislature, years a city organizer working for people, and years as a professor

Obama/Biden '08
McCain '08

Mark, Dallas TX   January 4th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Maybe their constituents will go for Hillary. I think Obama is way to naive and thinks if we sit around singing happy songs that this will solve issues. I like Edwards but what has he really done on a national or international level…he needs more experience. Hillary has the experience to negotiate and compromise when needed with Republicans and foriegn leaders. It is necessary for the Democratic party to run to the middle as Hillary has… too far left with Obama & Edwards and in 2012 we're looking at a Republican take over of Congress AGAIN!!! The Democrats can't make the same mistake the Republicans made in going to far too the right that the county self corrected. Hillary is the person to bring this country together.

GO HILLARY!

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   January 4th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

After Hillary becomes president, and she will easily in the end, she should choose Joe Biden for Secretary of State.

I'm not kidding; he has the exposure, experience and level-headedness for the job.

After 8 years of the drunken, coke-headed, frat boy lout and his cabal, we need serious people with foresight in Washington!!!

P.S. – Put a fork in the GOP, and you can thank bush for that!

Dorian, Ca   January 4th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Dodd and Biden were fine candidates with the experience and common sense that is needed to heal our country and regain our status among nations of the world. I believe their supporters will now throw their support behind Clinton, another candidate with the intelligence, know-how, strength, and calm steady-hand to lead our nation during such a critical period. She has laid out a detailed, specific agenda, has refrained from attacking her opponents (in spite of the frantic mud-slinging of Obama), and has shown herself to be the real candidate for "change". Voters are beginning to really listen to the candidates now, and if Obama wants to make it much further, he'd better rely on something more than charisma and his oratory skills. Americans are well-aware that words without substance mean nothing and have the scars to prove it.

Lisa, San Diego, CA.   January 4th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

I'm sorry to see Sen. Biden go. He's the one who seemed the most versed in foreign affairs and wasn't afraid to say exactly what he thought. I still don't quite understand the importance of the Iowa caucus, even after reading about it's history. To me, it's till anyone's race. I guess Iowa has to be known for something…they don't seem to be that important during the 3 years in between elections.

OverTheRainbow, KS   January 4th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

These two guys ARE the most experienced in the group. Too bad they let Her Royal Thighness co-opt that experience angle early on. They shoulda slammed her on it in the first debates. I wonder what her campaign slogan would be if she didn't have that "experience" nonsense to spew!

Jr., California   January 4th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Dodd, Biden, Clinton, Edwards, and other losers…..THEY ARE WHO WE THOUGHT THEY WERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

David Reed   January 4th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Sen. Biden… I congratulate you. you are a valuable smart guy.. Now please put myour support with Barack.. and hopefully he'll make you a member of his cabinet.. We still need you…

DR

Steve Franks   January 4th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

All of the presidental candidates have no experience in foreign policy. No hands-on, no on the job training knowledge to deal with the fact that the world is running out of oil and 60% of our imported oil comes from the Middle East. The fact that we are in Iraq and the Middle East to secure our supply of oil, to keep the wheels of our capitalistic industry turning. Wake-up Americans, and elect our next president who has lived in the Middle East for at least ten plus years, a candidate with experience and knowledge from the world to govern the world. Who is this person? Where do we find him? Definitely not the present candidates. The American people should manage their own destiny by advertising on the web and newspapers for the candidate with 10 – 25 years of experience in the Middle East. Otherwise, the United States is pursuing the same path as the illiterate Roman Empire, destruction from within.

ia voter   January 4th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Two incredible public servants! I am proud of them both and was happy to call them neighbors over the past few months. Biden for VP!

artseafartsea   January 4th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Good for
Richardson! He would be a good choice for Secretary of State. He has more experience in diplomacy than any of the candidates and a lot of other political wannabes.

Don, Ft. Worth, Tx   January 4th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Biden was probably the best choice in either party. I am an independent not a Democrat. No axe to grind. To the guy who said all of the Demos were light years ahead of all of the Republican candidates, you are kidding right, or is it just your bias? Think Kucinich, Clinton, Edwards. All empty suits.

pam Eugene OR   January 4th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Jack NY Ny
I will be voting Republican if Hillary is on the ticket. She is way to divisive!
Sorry to see Biden gone. He is a good man.

David, Gilbert Arizona   January 4th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Why in the world would Joe Biden drop out of the race after the Iowa caucus. Iowa has rarely been a predictor of who will be the next president. Bill Clinton came in third at the Iowa caucus. The results of the Iowa caucus are almost meaningless, which is exactly why Rudy didn't participate in it.

I'm a republican and, depending on the republican candidate, I'd be willing to vote for Joe Biden. I'd never vote for any of the other democratic candidates regardless of who the republican candidate was.

Roy   January 4th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Mr. Biden and Mr. Dodds,

I apologize that you didn't make it, but your still respected by me and my family. Please try not get involved of endoursing anyone cause it will reflect you if you decide to run another term.

The games has just begun.

Estevan Olivas   January 4th, 2008 11:09 am ET

It is very sad to see that Biden and Dodd have dropped out of this race. The three best candidates for the Democrats are by far Richardson, Biden, and Dodd. Obama, Hillary, nor Edwards can come close to the qualifications and experience that any of the lower tier candidates have. Everyone keeps talking about change, change, change. Well if you look at track records, none of the upper tier candidates have really done anything to express change other than Hillary when she was in the White House. The only reason that she was able to create a bit of change was because she had the media and the country paying attention to her every move.

Last night there was a crazy thing happening in Iowa. If you were able to see the live feed from CNN.com and other media outlets, you would have seen that Richardson supporters were extremely close to getting the 15% needed to be a viable candidate. In many cases, Richardson was missing the viable status by anywhere from 2 – 15 votes. With Biden and Dodd out, the majority of those people should support Richardson. I don't see the lower tier supporters moving on to the higher tier very much. If they do move to Richardson, he very well may shape this elections' outcome. I know that he definately has my vote!

Mark, B'ham., Al.   January 4th, 2008 11:02 am ET

I still would not vote for Barrack-Biden the Socialist/Post Viet Nam Era Dems (weak on defense). If you are middle class and think the democrats are not going to raise your taxes for social and welfare programs, not to pay off the deficit, of which not renewing the Bush Tax Cuts for the middle class will raise middle class taxes! Then I would like to sell you some swamp land in Florida. I would rather vote for the lesser of two evils to my wallet.

Dive Dive   January 4th, 2008 11:00 am ET

You couldnt see him but you could smell Carl Rove in Iowa,checking out the landscape and preparing the Swift boats.He will do what ever it takes to make sure the Repucks and Elites stay in power.

Nelson, Colorado Springs Co   January 4th, 2008 10:49 am ET

Sen Biden didn't stand a chance NEWSPAPER, TV and talk shows didn't give him the same press time as Sen Obama and Clinton or the other people.

Matt, Houston, TX   January 4th, 2008 10:43 am ET

It's sad to see two such well qualified candidates leave the contest but that is what the primaries are all about. Every one of the Democratic candidates were light years ahead of the Republican candidates and either one of these two men would have made an excellent President.

Now to look forward . . . FIRED UP!!! READY TO GO!!!!

Polls may be looked at suspiciously, and for good reason, but for all of you non-Obama supporters saying your candidate should be endorsed as only they can win the Presidency, the polls just don't agree. Not just some of the polls, all of the polls (recent, not 2 months back!). In every recent national poll taken that matches up the different candidates from each party, only Barack Obama beats every Republican.

Talk to the nearest Republican and ask them if they would ever vote for Hillary, then get ready for a negative diatribe. Ask them about Obama and you'll most likely get a, "I could support him, especially if doesn't get the nomination." As your local independant the same thing and Obama comes out on top again. Who can win? Who has the 'electibility' factor going for them? Barack Obama.

Face it, the 'experience' question is moot (Hillary is only a first term Senator, too), Obama's been in public office longer than her. First Lady? So what. Hillary is too entrenched in the political machine of Washington to be an effective mechanism of change, no matter what she says. Just look at the type of campaign she has been running, lots of attacks, rumors and out right lies about Obama – does that sound like change?

And then there is the 'hate' factor. The Clintons have bi-partisan 'hate' – Democrats and Republicans, alike, hate them. I don't hate them and I think Hillary would have been a good President and I could easily vote for her if she is the nominee. The problem is, I don't think she could be a 'great' President and her history will make it harder to get things accomplished (re: the 'hate' factor). Obama has already shown he can get along with Republicans, his mentor in the Senate is a Republican (I forget his name).

Chris and Joe, sorry to see you go. You guys have great credentials, good stances on the issues, are very intelligent and have excellent experience. What you are lacking is the ability to 'inspire'. Hopefully neither one of you leaves the public arena anytime soon.

jack, ny, ny   January 4th, 2008 10:34 am ET

voting republician if Obama on the ticket.

Obama Never!!!!!!!

Scott - NY   January 4th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Biden and Dodd were arguably the most qualified candidates in this election, but it seems that experience is not as important as how much money you can raise. This is exactly why we need publically financed campaigns.

Hopefully whoever the nominee is will pick one of these men as a running mate, and maybe give the other a high level cabinet position.

Andy, New York, New York   January 4th, 2008 10:30 am ET

It's funny that the Iraq war is right up there on people's agenda of concern, yet these two avid anti-war candidates were forced out of the race. Biden is a nice and decent man, perhaps a fixture in Congress, and Dodd is a well-meaning and nice guy, too, but they just don't register in the minds of the people.

Funny thing is, Dodd, who is from Connecticut, is anti-war and was re-elected to Congress in 2006, while his former Democratic colleague from Connecticut, Joe Lieberman, is pro-war but was defeated in Democratic primaries in 2006, ran as and won as an Independent and returned to Congress.

The American people may well be more divided than we know on the Iraq war, and while the Dems advocate withdrawal, which is what the American people also want, the American people don't want it done to the detriment of troops or American security and stability. Trust with the Iraq war still seems to be with Republicans than with Democrats.

Now, Obama mentioned troop withdrawal as part of his must-do items if elected President, but juding from the tepid applause from those gathered last night, this may well be left to be seen than talked about. Perhaps people are tired of talks and want to see actions! Or maybe people quitely support the war but openly say something else.

William Courtland, Waterford, Ontario   January 4th, 2008 10:28 am ET

If there is a conflict of arms in Iraq then there is also a conflict of arms in L.A.

There is a civil conflict in America between the two parties and with that civil conflict raging everyone is effected; the people seem forced to choose sides.

One can not restore the Constitution while still allowing a president to reside under the anti-administrative party movement within the one federal government and its individual houses.

karene   January 4th, 2008 10:27 am ET

You were one of the best. Never give up on the USA

Corey from D.C., but in Colorado   January 4th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Listen,

I hope that we have a president in the white house that can make a positive difference on our country. It really doesn't matter who is in there, as long as he/she has the country's intentions at heart. I have a question/comment on the "1 GUY" on the panel last night that was sitting with the 3 female correspondents on CNN after the IOWA caucaus. Somebody tell me how many times, he used the words "African-American" when referring to Obama. I forget his name, but his whole demeanor was about the most public display of racism that I've seen in a long time. He couldn't have just been a man who won IOWA, he was a label. I gurantee you that if Edwards won, he wouldn't have referred to him as a "Caucasian", and if Hiillary won, he probably wouldn't have referred to her as a "Caucasian Woman". If you're out there reading this, you need to check yourself and replay the entire conversation and how the look of disgust was portrayed as you talked about the Democratic winner of Iowa.

Chad, Wisco   January 4th, 2008 10:25 am ET

As a full fledged Republican I must say that I would have voted for Sen Biden. He was the one Dem canidate who I believe can actually get things done. Everyone else seems to just want to play the political game and not actually care if anything is accomplished, similar to both our current pres and congress. Mr. Biden I hope that whomever is elected pres sees what a great service you've provided our country and gives you a position to help us further.

Walt, Belton, TX   January 4th, 2008 10:19 am ET

Sen Joe Biden was probably the most experienced and qualified person in the race, unfortunately, his lack of a personable approach to people, really just a lack of a pleasant personality, did him in. Sen Dodd just is not outspoken enough to have grabbed much in the way of headlines and hence, his message was never really heard.

Would have preferred either of them over the top three that are left.

Joe   January 4th, 2008 10:14 am ET

What a shame that Biden did not get the press coverage that the three others did. The only one with the experience and the ability to make changes to this country just dropped out….thank you Iowa!

This process needs to change so that we all have a chance at the same time to vote in these primaries/caucuses. This is ridiculous.

I, at this point, will not vote in my primary now that Biden's name will not be on the ballot.

I don't think we have a true democracy in this country. The media establishes the frontrunners one year before the primaries and then only a couple of states (Iowa and NH) get to decide who stays and who withdraws. Totally not fair!

Keith   January 4th, 2008 10:08 am ET

Sorry to see Senator Biden go…such a great candidate.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08!!

Kent Benfield   January 4th, 2008 10:01 am ET

Joe Biden, the most qualified & honorable person to run for President in a long time…

The one person who could have made strides at uniting our divided country…

Isn't is strange how it all plays out?

Good luck, Senator Biden. Thank you for continuing to be a man of principle, and while my home state of North Carolina has produced it's share of odd Politicians(i.e. Jesse Helms, John Edwards), I liken you to our Terry Sanford. Delaware is lucky to have you…

AJ, IL   January 4th, 2008 9:58 am ET

Craig of Carlsbad CA…It's a little early for VP announcements, but I predicted Obama and Huckabee would do well in Iowa. I expected either a first or second place finish for both men back in September. As I saw the debates unfold and the negative campaigning of Hillary and Mitt take flight, I knew that Obama and Huckabee candidancies would ignite the Iowans. I also think that if Obama were to become the Democratic nominee, a good choice for VP would be Virginia senator Jim Webb, over say Biden or Edwards or Hillary.

EUNICE, MARYLAND, U.S.A.   January 4th, 2008 9:57 am ET

Out-Back Aussie, you got it all wrong. It is going to be Huckabee/McCain.

Sorry Sen. Biden and Dodd. The two great men I respect so much.

GO!!!! HUCKABEE ALL THE WAY TO 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

JohnT   January 4th, 2008 9:56 am ET

The Republicans have to be happy this morning. They would love to see Obama as the Democrat nominee because whoever they run will beat him like a drum. It's a dangerous and ugly world out there, and we're saddled with a corrupt, special-interest controlled government at every level. The Republicans will have no trouble convincing the electorate that it's no time to put an amatuer in the White House.

Jeff   January 4th, 2008 9:55 am ET

The people in Iowa did speak for change, and maybe it wasn’t about where the front runners stand on issues, but more about running the same old tired power hungry Washingtonians out. It just doesn’t appear to be about issues, or heaven forbid, representing the people. Every election it seems to be more about fund raising, front runner backing, inter-party back biting and total political rhetoric. Where is Government for and by the people?
What is really disheartening is that good candidates, with valid positions on important issues, are already dropping out because they are not viewed as front runners, and their pockets are not deep enough to compete. Who will pick up their voices and challenge the status quo? When will Americans realize the playing field needs to be leveled….WITHOUT special interest monies leveling it. Is this really what the Founding Fathers had in mind? Can this process really represent all the people is claims to represent? It just looks like rich people making decisions that help other rich people be richer.

Garry Lemons, Benton, Arkansas   January 4th, 2008 9:55 am ET

WOW..Like Iowa really matters???? It would seem to me and more than likely, the rest of the country, that the so called "caucuses" were nothing more than 300,000 confused people. Did you see how the votes were counted, raise your hand please, lets do a recount of hands please, ok, ok..did you count what I counted, ok, recount everyone..IT WAS BIG MESS. Archaic and more confusing than Huckabee taking the state! (Whoa, if you only knew)

All I can say is I am sorry that these two dropped out, I am a Clinton supporter, but the fact that SO MUCH empahasis is put on this state is confusing.

It would seem to me that Iowa needs to come up with a new system, the system they have now, well, it is laughable to watch.

AJ, IL   January 4th, 2008 9:52 am ET

I respect both Dodd and Biden, but this campaign season isn't about extensive political experience it is about which candidate is the most enthusiatic about bringing change. What Iowans rejected was not their experience, but how effective their experience translated into change. If Iowans (and Americans at large) see the Washington political system as inept and broken, having two guys who have been apart of that system for many years doesn't bold well. The interesting question will be concerning the supporters' of Biden and Dodd second choice in New Hampshire. Will they flock to Richardson, Obama, Hillary, or Edwards? Hopefully they will flock to Obama.

Kucinich and Richardson will bow out of the race after New Hampshire if they come out in the low single digits again.

Rosa Birmingham, AL   January 4th, 2008 9:51 am ET

This is very sad. My two favorite candidates. There is no way Obama can win a general election against the Repub hate and fear machine. Everyone better watch to see who the Repub candidate is because that will be the next president.

Randall, Greenville, SC   January 4th, 2008 9:46 am ET

very sad to see that Iowans couldnt see the experience and intelligence of Joe Biden. I was looking forward to casting my vote for him on Jan. 26. Now back to the drawing board. This truly is the year of the Pop-Star Politicians.

On a side note, I laughed for 5 minutes when Huckabee was announced the winner. I'm still not sure this isnt a joke. I guess the GOP is just forfeiting the 2008 general election.

Turn the Page   January 4th, 2008 9:46 am ET

For all the sour grapes above, Obama's had a remarkable accomplishment. Clinton in third is not out of it by any means and we'll see yet another remake in a couple of hours. Change is in the air both generational and in the way parties govern. It's long overdue.

That being said, Joe Biden and Chris Dodd are two of the most outstanding Senators we have. While hoping for cabinet appointments, I can't help but think their best choice would be to remain in the Senate and help get the Democrats' program through the next Congress.

The time for venom is over. Iowans sent a loud message to the country and I expect New Hampshire will do the same. It would do all of us well to listen.

Paul   January 4th, 2008 9:43 am ET

Biden was a very interesting candidate – He was one I was seriously considering.
Richardson still has my interest, though. I'm leaning towards Hillary, but have to decide between her and Richardson. I would be very interested in a Clinton/Richardson ticket. But since Richardson is telling his folks to back Obama, I doubt it'll happen.

Obama talks a good game, but I just don't really trust the guy. He really lost me with his 'gospel tour' he did a while back. That turned my stomach. We have too much religion in our government already.

However, ANY one of Clinton, Obama, Edwards or Richardson will be better than what we have now! I'm counting the days until we can leave this dark, dark era in our nation's history.

Uma, mpls, MN   January 4th, 2008 9:42 am ET

I thought Joe and Biden will support Hillary, after all all the male ganged up against Hillary. Today i am so proud of you even though you lost in Iowan. It is good lesson to woman to learn how Man can gang up against a woman when it comes to grab power.

Hill and staff focus on different demographic population than focusing on woman in NH, victory is for you this time.

Only4 HIllary

Dave, Evergreen CO   January 4th, 2008 9:40 am ET

Two class acts who had no chance in race that has become about change. Both should be on Obama's short list for VP.

Ryan Indianapolis   January 4th, 2008 9:39 am ET

Biden your a creep and DODD your a clown….Thank God we dont have to listen to you two lecture us on how out of touch you are with AMERICA….Please be gone

mikeb   January 4th, 2008 9:39 am ET

As a republican, I always thought that Biden was the best Democratic choice. He has tons of experience and is more knowledgeable than all the othe candidates. He just lacked charisma. Plus the media(CNN) focused all their coverage on Billary, the "Big O", and Pretty Boy. Too bad, the Democrats lost their best electable candidate able to take on the GOP in a nationwide election.

Vincent   January 4th, 2008 9:38 am ET

I really can not see what all the hype is about Obama. Sure, he can motivate a crowd and he can rally a football team to go and crush their opponent. But, seriously, what are his views? What are his positions on the top 50 issues facing the President? He conveniently manages to go missing during important votes in the Senate. I'll give him credit, he's a motivational speaker. But that doesn't qualify you to be the President of the United States of America. Hasn't the "Keep Hope Alive" thing kind of been done before?

Scott   January 4th, 2008 9:38 am ET

Iowans, you've given us all hope and underlined a fundamental principle that I think many Americans believe will play out over the next few months:

Experience in a BROKEN system is NO experience at all.

It time for a real change!   January 4th, 2008 9:38 am ET

This is why I'm an Independent. Look at who the GOP and Dem parties have produced for candidates after untold millions have been spent….and on top of that…the best options are dropping out!

It's time for Bloomberg to run as an Independent. If you really want change, let's have a third party President win. That will shake up the political machinery in Washington….and place a person in the job who actually has the proven experience to understand and solve the complex problems this world is facing.

Don't waste your vote on the Dem or GOP party – whoever and whatever they stand for this year.

chris   January 4th, 2008 9:34 am ET

This country if facing an up-hill battle not soly due to the current administration but due to America yet to adjust itself to Globalization that's affecting our jobs and this new war against terrorism. Yet, Iowans voted last night for a man who has little experience and who began to prepare for the highest office only after one year of being in the senate. On the GOP side, Iowans voted for a man who's experience is questionable at best. Americans can not be this shallow as to vote for good salesmanship instead of solid proven experience. I'm hopeful that these two will not remain on top. It is a shame that Biden and Dodd had to drop out….wake up people! We need experience, experience, experience. For the love of your children, please vote for folks who's been there and done that…..we can not afford to make an experiment of the presidency in the next 4 years. There are too much at stake. Take it like this, when you have nothing to sell, you'll sell slogans, speeches and emotions….when you have something to sell, that's when you hear real solutions and approaches to things. Keep your ears open and vote for the candidate that may bore you to death but has real content that will keep this country together.

Salita, SC   January 4th, 2008 9:34 am ET

I am sorry to see Biden go he* was my choice. But since my primary is on the 26th I will throw my support to Hillary. Obama supporters* I have a question for you….tell me which states will Obama bring to the table which add up to 270 electorial votes given that he will face the same opposition Carter faced in 1980? In the next election we must win either one large southern state or several small mid western states. Republicans will run on States Rights….the subtle political correct term for segregation and oppression.

Joe, SoCal   January 4th, 2008 9:32 am ET

Hillary backers, time to back someone else. Your candidate is finished. NH has 40% Independents compared to just 20% for Iowa, and Obama got most of that vote. It very well could be a landslide victory in NH. Once Obama wins there, the people of South Carolina, where blacks make up most of the Democratic voting base, will not stand in the way of an Obama nomination. After he wins three states, Hillary is DONE. Finished. Thanks for coming. Now go away.

I think that Obama needs a Southerner on his ticket to ensure a victory. Edwards wouldn't be a bad choice.

Sensible Cape Coral Fl   January 4th, 2008 9:25 am ET

Listen folks: This was just ONE state telling us their choices. We are treating it as if it were the real thing. Despite Dodd and Biden dropping out, the Democratic slate of candidates is head and shoulders above anyone the Republicans have to offer. We have the makings of a truly great Cabinet to help guide our country. All of us just have to stay strong.

Tom W - Dedham, Mass   January 4th, 2008 9:23 am ET

Perfectly put Ted from St Louis. Hillary can try to run as an agent of change (because the polls dictate that is what we want), but nobody is buying her as the one to bring that change.

Watch closely how two things begin to happen, she will AGAIN change her message and she will have her "mouthpieces" out there spewing hate and lies about Obama and whomever else is a threat.

This country needs new faces and mindsets in the White house and throughout our Govenment and though I hope it is Romney in 2008, the chances of things actually getting done ALSO INCREASE with Obama in the White house.

Hillary will indeed bring 4-8 more years of hate and division and WE ALL as a nation can't afford that.

Lynda West Chester, PA   January 4th, 2008 9:21 am ET

Sad to see Biden go but it was inevitable. It's time to put our support behind Obama. Hopefully we'll see Joe as a big part of Obama's administration.

Thanks for all of your hard work Senators Biden and Dodd. Too bad Iowa couldn't see past all of the $ and media hype.

Obama/Biden 08!

Susan Keller, TX   January 4th, 2008 9:20 am ET

I believe either one of these gentlemen would have made a great presidet! It is sad. The democrats have so many wonderful canidates to choose from this year. My hopes are on Hillary Clinton. I think she is qualified, strong and it is well past time for a woman to be president of the USA!

Thomas Wells   January 4th, 2008 9:17 am ET

It just really is dishearting that Americans (or at least Iowans) don't get it. I'll refrain from my opinion until New Hampshire, but something in this election process needs to change. Most of the top tier candidates are one in the same. Why don't you all recognize that? We are only inviting destruction on ourselves by continuing in this way.

HILLARYLOVER NY NY   January 4th, 2008 9:16 am ET

If Hillary were a man we wouldn't even care if she were warm and fuzzy. I am so sick and tired of people in America electing people they "like". Electing someone you think you can sit down and have a beer with or electing someone you think "cares" about you ends in disaster. Look at the last EIGHT YEARS! If the US gets one more screw up in office I will have to move to Mexico or Brazil because I won't be able to afford to live in the US anymore.

HILLARY 2008
NOBAMA!

Ash, NY,NY   January 4th, 2008 9:13 am ET

What a shame! Richardson is a joke! Congrats to Obama! I still believe BIDEN was our best hope, but have always believed that Obama was our next best hope. I have to hope Obama can do it.

Joise   January 4th, 2008 9:12 am ET

Biden neds to go back to that liberal rat nest in New England

cari, columbia, md   January 4th, 2008 9:12 am ET

Well, I hope the media is happy, months of no coverage of these two qualified candidates has paid off. Unfortunately Obama and Clinton are still unelectable when you consider the crucial "middle america" vote. I don't even know who I want to support now because I am not excited AT ALL about any of the remaining guys.

To Steve Franks….Actually Biden has more foreign policy experience then the rest of these guys put together, which is why he really could have held his weight against the republicans. Not sure why you said that.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   January 4th, 2008 9:08 am ET

I am sadden to see both Biden and Dodd leave the race. I have to say that they would have gone farther if there had been a different mix of candidates. I say thank you to them for the service in the past and future that they have given this country. Both are respectable and honorable men to me. I completely understand their withdrawing from the race. I don't know why Gravel and Kucinich haven't done the same given that neither of them have any delegates.

Dodd's emphasis on education should be taken up by the nominee. I wish it had made more of an impact on the rest of the debate and nomination process. Biden's foreign policy experience is large; he should be good counsel for the next president of either party (hopefully democrat). I would hope that the nominee of the Democrat party leaves these gentlemen in the Senate to hold onto the majority there. Who knows how the races for the up comming Senate seats will play out.

Jenny Beagle   January 4th, 2008 9:08 am ET

To both Senators, Thank you for your service. To Senator Obama congratulations! To the youth of America, WELCOME! I am so proud of what was displayed by the youth movement and by the candidate that I just can't sit still. OBAMA made history. Clearly the choice of change. The Clinton team has run its course. Even in the address to her constituents she continued to be divisive and spiteful. IOWA didn't need to hear that, NH doesn't want to hear that, America and the World do not want a leader of the free world who would display such poor judgement. Honesty, Integrity, loyalty to the country and to themselves are all important attributes of the nominees. The Clinton group refuse to heed that message and appear to want to keep telling the people what is right for them. The race is far from over, however; a large shadow has just been cast in the room.

Steven   January 4th, 2008 9:04 am ET

As an independently minded voter, I am sorry to see Senator Biden drop out. He never had to boast about 35 years experience because he actually had it. Good luck and hopefully we will see you soon!

Ian, Canton, OH   January 4th, 2008 9:03 am ET

This is a sad, sorry political process for a country like this. The media and one small state have decided for the other 49 states that neither Biden nor Dodd will be our next president. It's ridiculous. Who gets to be the Republican and Democratic candidates should be a decision for the majority. All the caucuses should be held in the same week. Iowa, NH, and SC do not provide a representative cross-section of the US, and should not get to tell the rest of us what our choices are.

Mark R. Fort Lauderdale FL   January 4th, 2008 9:03 am ET

Sorry to diappoint you, Martin from Clarksville, but the people who were behind Biden and Dodd wanted someone with alot of experience. I wouldn't be surprised to see those 2 candidates personally endorse Ms. Clinton. Those voters are going to vote for Hillary.

Salita, SC   January 4th, 2008 9:03 am ET

I am sorry to see Biden go hw was my choice. But since my primary is onthe 26th I will throw my support to Hillary. Obama supports I have a question for you….tell me which states will Obama take that add up to 270 electorial votes given that he will face the same opposition Carter faced in 1980. In the next election we must win either one large southern state or several small mid western states. Republicans will run on States Rights….the political correct for segregation and oppression.

Ry + Meg   January 4th, 2008 9:02 am ET

Serious times call for serious people! Tested experience is what we need now more than ever. Biden, wish we had a chance to support you in New Hampshire!

Joe, Boulder CO   January 4th, 2008 9:00 am ET

Great job, you morons in Iowa. How many of you took the time to even know who Joe Biden was? I guarantee 99% of you corn famer zombies just went with the "big name" candidate because you're too lazy to really care about the future of your nation. I know that seems like a foreign concept, but you should try pulling your heads out sometime and try it.

Biden and Kucinich should be getting 90% of the votes if people weren't so easily fooled by the marketing. The Iowa caucuses are a failure (once again).

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   January 4th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Dodd will continue to be a great senator who I hope would have the chance of being the majority leader (we need to get Harry Reid out of there!!).

Biden would be an excellent Secretary of State in an Obama administration.

I hope that both of them throw their support behind Obama. It has become very obvious that people are tired of the establishment and want a change candidate.

Obama '08

Barry Wilmington, DE   January 4th, 2008 8:50 am ET

An online poll for the Delaware News Journal newspaper had Biden in a close second – Obama winning by just 2 votes. We supported you, Sen! Sorry to see that you're stepping down.

Makeba, Houston TX   January 4th, 2008 8:47 am ET

Obama has always been my first choice. But still, it really hurt to see Biden go. I will miss his presence at the next debate Saturday.

I will really miss what he contributed to this campaign.

(And I hope he is put to work in the next administration)

Texas_Guy   January 4th, 2008 8:42 am ET

I don't see what all the fuss is over Iowa. They only have 7 electoral votes. I guess the caucus thing is OK for weeding-out guys like Biden and Dodd, but that will happen eventually anyway.

Primaries in TX, CA, NY, OH, IL, FL, and PA will paint a more realistic picture of who’s really a viable candidate.

Why do candidate’s waste taxpayer’s dollars (matching campaign dollars) on Iowa. No wonder America is disenchanted. They should use that money to help the unemployed in Iowa.

Matt, Columbus OH   January 4th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Steve Frank, is that satire? Biden and Dodd have no foreign policy experience? Are you high? Did you see the job Biden is returning to, mentioned in this article you decided to comment on?

Ryan S in KC   January 4th, 2008 8:33 am ET

Biden and Dodd knew they didn't have a chance. They should have taken the money they raised and backed a viable candidate.

JB Boston MA   January 4th, 2008 8:33 am ET

Thank you Biden and Dodd! Now endorse Obama, and end this part of the circus show.

Hey Outback Aussie-

That would be pretty incredible Obama/McCain. Unfortunately it will never happen because even Barack doesn't have the guts. He would be attacked by the dems.

He does need to pick up someone with a lot of experience. Biden would be a good idea.

Ding Dong the witch is dead!!!!!!

Howard Hewlett Des Moines IA   January 4th, 2008 8:33 am ET

At my caucus sight Hillary didn't even make the cut! The only way that she even got one delegate vote was Biden and Dodd not getting enough either so they went to her for round two.

I like both Biden and Dodd, they were my second and third choices, but this country needs a charasmatic leader to get us away from the Bush years and Biden and Dodd are qualified but not charasmatic. I certainly hope that Biden looks at a Sec. of State position and that Dodd replace Reid as majority leader.

Allen, Cleveland, OH   January 4th, 2008 8:26 am ET

Good ridence to bad rubbish. Biden is a plagarist, which is why he had to drop out of the last presendential campaign in which he participated. Dodd is a partisan wonk and part of the "old establishment" that we need to eliminate from the government in order to move ahead with the changes needed.

Brian Tampa, FL   January 4th, 2008 8:22 am ET

While I could never vote for Obama because he is a quasi-socialist who never met a problem that didn't require a tax hike and a Government program I can certainly see why people are inspired by the man. He reminds me of Reagan in some ways. To bad his policy ideas are so big Government. Hillary is in big trouble.

WIlly   January 4th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Senator Dodd you are a true gentleman but the Clinton war machine would have Joe Lieberman’d you. Biden is a bitter old hippie, go back to the where ever you came from, heck they like you or are stuck with you.

Ted, St. Louis, MO   January 4th, 2008 8:16 am ET

The greatest day will be when Hillary drops out of the race (and takes Bill with her). When people see her and learn (again) who she is, they DON'T WANT ANYTHING TO DO WITH HER. She is totally depressing, a fake person, and has no warmth about her.

Hopefully a new day has come in politics…that of hope, both sides working together to get some good things done for our Country.

Hillary would only be four or eight more years of division, partisinship, dirty politics, etc. We need a fresh start and hopefully Obama will bring that.

Pat M PEI Canada   January 4th, 2008 8:09 am ET

Alice Newman, NH

Couldn't agree with you more! And what a tradgedy in this day and age that the Media can have such control over a Nation and the lives of it's tax payers.

It seems those who have the clout are more interested in making grand stories for the History Books of America vs a great Nation , a Stable Responsible Government and a Safe and Peaceful World.

The Presidential Election is right up there with Britany and K Feds Divorce, Loghan's Addition, and Hilton's Reincarnation.

I hope when America elects a leader less capable, responsible, experienced, and politically seasoned the media will enjoy playing up that story as well.
Tragic.

Martin, Clarksville, Tn   January 4th, 2008 7:57 am ET

While I am sorry to see them leave the race so soon, I am glad that there are fewer options available. Many people in this country do not want Hillary. Now, the anti-Hillary vote gets divided among fewer candidates and her chances of winning decrease. I think Dodd and Biden had a lot to offer, but if losing them lessens the chance of Hillary being elected then it is an acceptable loss.

Anybody but Hillary in 2008.

Steve Franks   January 4th, 2008 7:47 am ET

Sen. Joe Biden and Sen. Chris Dodd really didn't expect to win; after all they too, like all the candidates have no experience in foreign policy. No experience and no knowledge to deal with the fact that the world is running out of oil and 60% of our imported oil comes from the Middle East. The fact that we are in Iraq, the Middle East to secure our supply of oil, to keep the wheels of our capitalistic industry turning. Wake-up Americans, and elect our next president who has lived in the Middle East for at least ten years and has acquired the knowledge from the world to govern the world. Who you say is this person? Definitely not the present candidates.

lee biggs   January 4th, 2008 7:06 am ET

Finally! We are hearing from someone who makes us proud to be American's again!
(Barak Obama) We are a nation that has become tired of of devisiveness and political correctness and the status quo in Washington, amd I personally believe he is our best hope for a new day to dawn in history!

Lee Biggs/ White/female/middle class/Independent/North Carolina

Nando   January 4th, 2008 6:52 am ET

Thank you Guys for your support to have your people choice Barak as second choice. God Bless you as you return to Help Barak win the White House and Put the Clintons in the Closet and Close the Door.

A NEW Democratic PARTY WHITHOUT THE CLINTONs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Marge Hibbing Mn   January 4th, 2008 6:39 am ET

Can't wait for Obama to do the same. Since Oprah can't bus in students to vote in the other states and most states don't have republican cross overs, how is he going to win there.

To the next president of the United States of America Hillary Clinton…yeah girl you go and kick butt…Dean won Iowa but Kerry got the nod.

Shannon, Minnesota   January 4th, 2008 6:36 am ET

Biden was the best choice for me, I wish him well. All them democratic candidates are good, so I will be happy to vote for any ot them. I wish it had been Joe, but he's can make a difference in the senate.

Kathi ~ Louisville, KY.   January 4th, 2008 6:12 am ET

I'm heartbroken that Sen. Biden has dropped out of the race, he was definately the most qualified, intelligent and informed…

(probably the reason he DIDN'T win… or get the press the "front runners" did)

Still look forward to seeing you keeping them honest in D.C., Sen. Biden.

My hat is off to you.

Jason   January 4th, 2008 6:10 am ET

One state? One state with an archaic system where less than 300,000 people voted? ONE STATE? At least go for two!!! I'm pissed. For the first time ever, I have contributed money to a candidate and he flakes out after only one state?

fred lang   January 4th, 2008 6:07 am ET

Who Cares?? Next week, when hillary quits, then do a story…

Jose F.   January 4th, 2008 5:57 am ET

Iowans are plenty "smart enough"! Match their literacy and high school completion rates in your state and then get back to me.

Comeon genuine article, true blue Dems be magnanimus. Don't hate get involved, unite and get behind this hope and need for change.

mark wilkes barre pa   January 4th, 2008 5:55 am ET

I'm not surprised at all they pulled out

Lisa   January 4th, 2008 5:52 am ET

Biden and Dodd will likely back Obama – I believe Biden would be a good vice president for Obama.

lew fournier   January 4th, 2008 5:48 am ET

I just wrote about 5 para,'s on my opinion on how the Iowans voted.I'm going to make this much shorter.
Just honestly take a look at Hillary Clinton when she addresses a crowd whether it is at a convention or just around a table in a private home.She is so sincere and caring about the things she wants to do for this country.
I truly think no one is giving this a lot of thought because for some underlying reason, I can only think which is to discredit her,she is rarely mentioned by the major TV networks.
I sincerely hope a she wins in NH and with all that ensuing attention allows peoplt to Really see who she is !!!!

Out-Back Aussie   January 4th, 2008 5:33 am ET

Two clearly outstanding candidates and now they have to pull out?!
What a strange system. If I had my wish I'd have P-Obama/VP-McCain.
YES I KNOW THAT SOUNDS NUTS, but it be an unbeatable team
for three reasons: 1) McCain would easily overcome Obama weakness in
experience and National Security. 2) If this two could come together then
just imagine how that could unite a country (every terrorists worst nightmare)
3) These two men have something in spades that most of the other candidates don’t have – integrity.
They maybe poles apart on some issues but heck I trust them, because of the
way they've conducted themselves.
PS – It would only work if we get the Straight talking McCain the one who wasn't afraid of offending the evangelicals or anyone else for that matter.

I know it sounds crazy, but I can dream.

S. HILL, UK   January 4th, 2008 5:13 am ET

So now we are left with Hillary – who didn't poll well amongst independents – and a first term senator without much experience. Bravo! The Democrats better think fast, or they will lose the race to the White House again.

Promising change is easy – but delivering it is hard…..so sorry Joe.

Matt, Manchester, CT   January 4th, 2008 5:00 am ET

Great, now we get to have Dodd back in CT…You Iowans couldn't have breathed some life into Dodd and keep him at bay from coming back to Connecticut?? Terrific. Three cheers for the most unproductive Senator CT has ever had.

Doris Murphy   January 4th, 2008 5:00 am ET

No one evoked "Change" more than these two old guys who, each, have been in the Senate for longer than 20 years. They've been there that long and cannot accomplish their change they wanted!!??

The adage goes that every child can grow up to be president. It does NOT translate to their version which maintains that every loitering Senator can make a popular president. Bottomline: Stick to your day job, Old Hags.

Chris - Phoenix, AZ   January 4th, 2008 4:58 am ET

I as well, wish Biden would have had better numbers. He is much more realistic and rational than Clinton and Obama. Yet it comes as no surprise elections are always the same. It is not necessarily the richest candidate who wins, but the one who has the most press coverage. Vast majority of the press coverage was A: The first possible woman to become president & B: The first possible black man to become president. Of course Biden, Dodd, and Richardson have no shot (granted Richardson is Hispanic, but that is being ignored out of the "First-Time-In-History Advertising" of the election. I only hope to see Biden give it another shot in 2012.

Alice Newman Center Harbor NH   January 4th, 2008 4:57 am ET

… the responsibility doesn't lie in the corn fields of Iowa so much as at the media's doorstep … the idea of a black man and a woman running (notice Richardson as a Hispanic is largely ignored) for President created such a media circus that they were created ad "stars" and "front-runners" by the media before other talented and qualified people had a chance to get started.

Obama and Clinton make great news so they get the headlines – they get the questions – they get the spotlight and one will probably get the job. Everyone likes to back a "winner" – I just wish it wasn't the Press taking on the role of "decider."

Frank, N.C.   January 4th, 2008 4:35 am ET

Thanks to the news media and their "Top Three", Biden is out. We'll have you to thank for our next republican president!
Biden was the only candidate that could have won against the republicans, they'll tear an Obama, Clinton or Edwards to shreds.
I'll start practicing the words "President Romney" now, maybe by the time he wins I can pull the words from my mouth without choking on them!

B. DUN   January 4th, 2008 3:36 am ET

Iowans must have their brains frozen when they made their Democratic
nominations, it must be the weather, poor souls!!! there is no other explanation

prima donna   January 4th, 2008 3:13 am ET

What about Kucinich and Gravel? When will they drop their White House runs?

Afia   January 4th, 2008 3:06 am ET

Man that sucks… I liked Dodd's way of thinking…

Janel, St. Paul, MN   January 4th, 2008 2:56 am ET

I have respected Senator Biden for many years, and am sorry that he has pulled out of the race.

My hope is that he will direct his delegates to vote for Obama — our only hope for a great future.

Craig, Carlsbad CA   January 4th, 2008 2:54 am ET

Obama doesn't need a northern liberal on the ticket. He needs someone that will be strong on the military, take the campaign to the rural areas and the south.
If Obama becomes the nominee Obama/Webb would be much stronger. Tough talking former republican secretary of the Navy with more military decorations than McCain.

Another Steve   January 4th, 2008 2:51 am ET

I also am an independent and while Biden and Dodd have lots of experience it's obvious people are fed up with experience. I am very shocked to see Iowans pick my favorite candidate in BOTH parties. Way to go Iowa. I salute you on you picks and it gives me some amount of optimism for the future.

Nora   January 4th, 2008 2:50 am ET

SHAME ON YOU CNN! I just watched your coverage of the Iowa results and one of you (John King?) said Edwards would most likely have to drop out of the race after New Hampshire. Edwards is the only candidate worth supporting in this race and CNN and other mainstream media seem to have this need to narrow the race immediately to two candidates, a republican and democrat. Your responsibility as journalists is to INFORM us about ALL of the candidates and let us make up our OWN MINDS! I am so furious at you. This is the worst coverage of an election campaign I've seen. Since the beginning you seem to think there are only two people running for the democratic ticket. I have been a viewer and supporter of CNN for years but you have now lost all of my respect. No wonder this country is such a mess. And then to see the question on your homepage about who we would vote for – Huckabee or Obama! NONE OF THE ABOVE!!!! There are other candidates in the race that DESERVE your attention. Iowa, a red state, does not speak for me. This was not THE ELECTION. It was one middle-America red state, highly influenced by the Christian right. Do you know how many states there are in this country????? HOW DARE YOU! Iowa (and New Hampshire for that matter) do NOT decide who the rest of us are stuck with as president. Iowa helped put Bush in office twice – how stupid are these people? And you, CNN, a major source of information (well, at least I thought you were) are saying they have made the choice for the rest of us. NO WAY!!!!! Your correspondents reporting tonight all need to take a long vacation and let someone else do the reporting who will actually present fair and balanced and INFORMATIVE information to the citizens of this country – a country that was once so great and now is sliding down that slippery slope. STEP UP TO THE PLATE CNN AND DO YOUR JOB RESPECTABLY!!!!!!!!! Remember the meaning of that word?

GreyWolf   January 4th, 2008 2:39 am ET

We need Biden to remain and continue to be a leader and voice of reason and fairness in the Senate. In fact I think he should be Senate ProTem (4th in line to President) and take the mantle from the revered Byrd who is playing chess with Death. Dodd might be good for a real effective and active Secretary of Education which should be an elevated position. What about Governor Kathleen Sibelius for VP? Wesley Clark for SecDef. Obama has a more stringent gauntlet yet to survive.
With Biden & Dodd out of race, Richardson grows. Clinton and Edwards are surely still in it. He has the ears and stature, if only he had the charts and 15 million dollars to throw at election, Kucinich might get 15% in general (think Perot). Without it, despite having such intelligence, experience, and most consistent judgement and policies, he mocked. If Romney looked like Kucinich, would he poll any where so highly?

Mark R. Fort Lauderdale FL   January 4th, 2008 2:23 am ET

Biden and Dodd know how important it will be for someone with experience and a long history of serving the democratic party to be the next president. I believe they will both put their support behind Hillary.

Christian, Tampa FL   January 4th, 2008 2:20 am ET

Senators Biden and Dodd both made wonderful appearances in debates and I for one am thankful for their campaigns.

a little sad   January 4th, 2008 2:14 am ET

I knew that Biden was more of a "non-shot" than a "long-shot", but I wish it wasn't the case. I would have voted for him in a heartbeat.

gao xia en   January 4th, 2008 2:13 am ET

CNN's coverage of the Republican Iowa caucuses was abyssmal. Who is "other"? Apparently the line to show a candidates' names on the pie chart is between 12 and 11 %.

Anonymous   January 4th, 2008 2:10 am ET

This may sound funny but I am only an eighteen year old, yet I have found myself very closely watching politics. I have been a long time supporter of Joe Biden. I mean no disrespect to Senator Obama, he is in my opinion well qualified for the job, but it would be nice to see Senator Biden at least get Vice President. The two would make a good pair. They would bring change and experience together. I thank Senator Biden for his hard work, and hope someone other than me will take a minute and think this over!

Obama08   January 4th, 2008 2:10 am ET

Iowans saw right through the Clintons and the rest of the country will follow suit. I can guarantee you she will now come out swinging and start spreading more of her venom towards Obama—then she will play the victim and say she didn't know anything about it. She'd lie to her own mother with a straight face.

I don't know where you get your information from "Californian" but it would be nice to post facts instead of lies and inuendoes. They are based on fear—-fear of the "change" that's coming. Get ready all you nay-sayers……Obama has made the first giant leap in occupying the White House. OBAMA08!!!!

New Yorker   January 4th, 2008 2:04 am ET

My sense – being a student of the Myers-Briggs personality type theory – is that both Obama and Huckabee are introverted intuitive feeling judging types. Hence if they wind up being the nominees of their parties, I think America is in for a really big change. Both are idealists with a vision of what they want America to be (Thomas Jefferson was an INFJ, too, I'd bet – Jimmy Carter was our last INFJ president, I'd say, who as a former president has worked tirelessly to make his vision for the world real). Both have extraverted feeling, I'd say, as their auxiliary – and will bring great empathy to the White House. My personal choice is for Obama, but as an INFJ myself – I'd really love to see these two debate each other . Oh, did I say – authenticity – is my type's most prized value. What a change this would be from politics as we have known it of late

jessi   January 4th, 2008 2:00 am ET

We love you Joe and Chris. THank you so much for being here for us!!!!!!!!!

mike Ordaz   January 4th, 2008 1:56 am ET

I still think hilary is still a strong canidate i still can win the other 48 state what do u thing

Alabama   January 4th, 2008 1:55 am ET

How much is Obama paying CNN to control the news and the elections ?

Tyler in Raleigh, NC   January 4th, 2008 1:52 am ET

I agree that we need to fix a lot of problems in the US, and these two candidates had a great deal of experience that can help with that. It has become clear in the last 20 years that the US can not change by the politics of the past.

If anything, George Bush made it clear the last 8 years. His Cabinet and advisors (and VP) have more experience than most of the candidates running in this election. Did they change the system (other than getting us in a war)?

Experience does not have to mean no change, but it means we are less likely to get many new ideas as they are entrenched in the way things work.

"You came together as Democrats, Republicans and independents to stand up and say that we are one nation, we are one people and our time for change has come."

Barak Obama has me changing from an Independent that reluctantly votes Republican. I actually beleive that he can make a difference. Worst case, at least it won't be Clinton/Bush politics as usual.

NewYork   January 4th, 2008 1:49 am ET

Now if only the Goofy CNN moderators and CNN would retire from covering the Elections. Wouldn't that be nice ?

Nazor   January 4th, 2008 1:47 am ET

Where is Iowa ? Go Hillary !! It was good to allow Obama one state victory anyway.

Bill, OHIO   January 4th, 2008 1:47 am ET

This is good news: these two gentlemen are intelligent enough to bow out; Obama wins Iowa…and history has shown that anyone who wins Iowa loses the big race in the end. I am hopeful at last!!! HILLARY 08!!!

JangJong   January 4th, 2008 1:46 am ET

Who ??

Jeff from Texas   January 4th, 2008 1:44 am ET

I really like Sen. Biden and think he would make an excellent Sec. of State, but I am pulling for Obama/Edwards or Edwards/Obama either would make me happy. We need change. Love the Clintons but Hillary is too rooted in the old school of politics. Would love to see Ron Paul win the Republican nomination maybe then politicians will get the message.

Nabil, Athens GA   January 4th, 2008 1:42 am ET

Really bitter about this one. That 15% rule is terrible. Biden might've been in the double digits if it wasn't for that crock of crap.

Best candidate in the field. Really bummed out.

TRG - San Diego, CA   January 4th, 2008 1:37 am ET

Biden is good and it's too bad he didn't get a better showing in Iowa, but EVERYBODY cannot be a winner in the BIG race. Better he & Dodd pack up early than stay late and build up more campaign debt.

Those of you that want America to stay partisan please continue to show your divisive colors. That way those of us who want America to FINALLY join together as AMERICANS will continue to celebrate the wins of Obama & Hucabee – the most MAINSTREAM of all the candidates. HURRAH for both !!

On one hand, Biden would be an EXCELLENT VP or SecState as would Hillary. On the other McCain stands as the best 2nd seat or SecState.

Hillary will take NH & Obama takes SC. Same on the GOP side: Romney gets NH & Huckabee gets SC. Richardson (an EXCELLENT choice again for UN Ambassador / SecEnergy) will drop after NH and Edwards drops after SC along with all the GOP except Guiliani. He'll quit after Florida. By the convention, it'll be Obama vs Clinton and Romney vs Huckabee.

Congrats to ALL AMERICANS who care enough to go out and participate in the process !!

Kevin, San Francisco, CA   January 4th, 2008 1:34 am ET

As a Biden supporter, I'm glad beither Biden nor Dodd backed another candidate. That's a fair, bold thing to do. I'm also glad to have supported the best candidate for the job, and will be sad to hear less of Biden in future debates.

Rhino   January 4th, 2008 1:32 am ET

2 good men, without a doubt.
In just about any other election year, I think either one would be a great choice – but in today's climate, we as Americans are clamoring for surefire change, not a gamble.
Had either of these guys been able to generate the donations that Obama or Huckabee or Edwards had – they would still be fighting.
I sincerely hope to see Joe Biden and Chris Dodd as prevalent figures in this country's future leadership, regardless of which party wins the White House.

Pat, NY   January 4th, 2008 1:27 am ET

I am so sorry to hear about Biden dropping out., and I agree wholeheartedly with Californian. These are scary times and Obama is not the answer. I am worried that too many people still do not understand the stakes here.

Also, I would like to say that I am glad I logged on to this site, as I was so discouraged after watching the coverage on MSNBC. I don't know why I didn't change the channel earlier. I am sick of NBC's spin, and push for Obama. That should be a red flag to all. If the NBC corporate machine, is backing Obama, we should watch out for him. We can't let them mislead us on this. It's way too important.

I hope Biden, Dodd and Richardson will get behind Clinton or Edwards.

Doesn't everyone remember Bush calling himself a "uniter, not a divider", and a "compassionate conservative"? We can't afford another President who doesn't know what he's doing!

Mark C, Asheville NC   January 4th, 2008 1:27 am ET

*** Tremendous damage has been done to our nation in the past 8 years and we need a team of people who have a real understanding of what has been changed to fix it. ***

They need to know what's WRONG, not what's CHANGED. Knowing what's changed is only important if you want to go back to where things were a decade ago. And that's the problem with you Clinton people. Check the scorecard. You are yesterday's candidate, and yesterday's news.

M. Lou Madison, WI   January 4th, 2008 1:25 am ET

Biden was the only one worth my vote.
Now I have no one at all to vote for.
Experience would have won the race.
No other candidate has the qualifications that Joe has. He should not have quit so soon.

All the other choices are dismal.

Why are Americans so stupid? This again proves the American people would rather continue accelerating into the morass of pride in their own stupidity than face reality.

Mark C, Asheville NC   January 4th, 2008 1:24 am ET

*** Will wait to hear from Biden camp whether this is true. ***

You're an idiot.

Jim   January 4th, 2008 1:23 am ET

Say it ain't so Joe…

Kansan   January 4th, 2008 1:23 am ET

Californian -

It's too bad some people get on here and just rant and rave with no thought in mind whatsoever. During President's Clintons presidency he comprimised with the congress continuously. How did you think NAFTA got passed; how do you think welfare reform got passed and many other measures. You're right we shouldn't bring this country together. We shouldn't! Wow, are there any grown ups out there? No wonder nothing gets better in this country.

Karl   January 4th, 2008 1:20 am ET

Joe Biden bows out, proving once again that rarely are we able to nominate and elect the best people. If the Democratic nominee is smart, he or she will tap Biden for the VP slot, because he will command respect across the political spectrum and around the world.

Jimmy   January 4th, 2008 1:20 am ET

The people who are cheering over Obama's victory in Iowa are the republicans.I listen all the right wing nuts radio show and they keep saying how Obama is such a great guy,he used drugs when he was younger who cares,his muslim background is such a great asset and as soon as he becomes the nominee the republican smear machine will go after him in full motion.I bet they'll find someone who bought drug from Obama, they'll find a cousin from his father side who is muslim that a have a connection with the terrorists and so and so.Don't forget that the republicans were thrilled when Kerry won the nomination.They were good enough to portray a war hero like Kerry(who volunteer to go to Vietnam) as a military hater.They can't smear Hillary, everything 's been thrown at her, no surprises.It's time for the democrats to wake up and to vote with their minds and not with their hearts, republicans do it better that's why they won 7 out of 10 times.What a great night for Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity.

j riordan   January 4th, 2008 1:12 am ET

Strange, Congressman Paul receives 10%, Richardson receives 02%… Yet the CNN 'pie' charts identify the 02% vote on the Dem. side , while the Rep. 'pie' only shows a blank/whited out section of 'pie' where the Paul numbers should be.

Wisdom Calling   January 4th, 2008 1:08 am ET

Are there any brains left in this Country?! Ones that can maybe do one ounce of research beyond what the pre-programmed parrots of popular media pour into our perception about the popular puppets? Please tell me America has not p-ssed away another great leader to take another ride on the people pleaser parade!!

Biden, I personally apologize for the inability of my fellow Americans to make a wise choice. The most qualified apparently has little to do with the considerations for choosing the leader of the free or (at present, not so free) world. We NEED YOU!!! Please do not give up!!

Rob   January 4th, 2008 1:03 am ET

Biden and Dodd have a whole lot of quit in them.

anngonzalez   January 4th, 2008 1:00 am ET

Too bad Obama didn't use his "uniter" skills to get one of the Iraq war funding bills with a timetable for withdrawal passed through the senate with a 60 vote majority. It's one thing to say you can bring people together and another to do it. For sure there are those in Iowa who will vote Republican in November who voted for Obama tonight — anything to keep Hillary from being the democratic nominee. She's the one the reeps can't beat.

Remember how we thought that Kerry's win in Iowa meant he would win in the general?

Octobox   January 4th, 2008 12:59 am ET

I will never understand Democrats — You people have zero understanding of politics. Obama, Clinton, Edwards all have said they would both "reduce troop size" and push into Iran if necessary.

Clinton – Edwards – Obama all voted in favor of every homeland security bill and foreign military expansionism.

Welfarism begets Warfarism — This is a Historical fact

Every Politician takes an oath of office to uphold the Constitution — the Constitution calls for a small gov't, zero foreign interventionism, and no subsidization (market meddeling).

In a "true" Free-Market (NAFTA and CAFTA are not Free-Markets), in a "true" free-market corporations have only two income sourses: 1) Consumers and 2) Consumer Investors.

In a Democracy they have three: 1) Consumers, 2) Consumer Investors, and 3) Subsidization (whimsical lobbyist favoritism).

Our founding fathers said we are not to nation build, not to develop tangling aliances — they would flip over in their beds to hear we spend $1Trillion per year to cover the costs of 760 Bases (on foreign soil) in 130 countries — That's called Colonialism for God sake.

Clinton-Obama-Edwards all voted in favor of Military Expansionism (Military Construction) and Homeland Security (wire tapping etc etc).

The word "democracy" is not mentioned once in the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, or Bill of Rights. You must understand the difference between Constitutional Republic and Democracy.

Bill Clinton bombed Iraq for 10 years — he gave Pakistan 90B in support, which they developed nuclear arsenal – Bush gave them 10B!!!

Vote for Ron Paul — the only one with a perfect Constitutional Voting Record

Peace

Misha from CA   January 4th, 2008 12:53 am ET

I am waiting to hear from Biden's team myself in hopes that maybe this is not true…If Biden were to be guaranteed VP or SOS that candidate would have my vote. The way the Iowa Democratic caucuses are held just infuriate me–the system is completely biased against candidates such as Biden and Dodd who are more qualified than the top 3 in the party. ARGH!

lluvia   January 4th, 2008 12:50 am ET

Hillary should drop out of the race also. Edwards topped her doesn't she know when she is loosing.

Sharon   January 4th, 2008 12:45 am ET

I couldn't agree with your more. As a left-wing democrat, I would appreciate it if my candidates stand for the basics that the democratic party stood for through generations. I do not want a candidate who can't be distringuished from the Republicans. I'll take anything but Obama!

Steve   January 4th, 2008 12:44 am ET

far and away the best candidate to get us out of all this trouble. this was a media battle, not a resume one. biden was by far the best man for the job and the media ignored him….

Bummed in Tucson   January 4th, 2008 12:44 am ET

Brian in Phoenix – I'm with you. I wanted an Iowa Surprise, but I am not surprised by this result. All you have to do is turn on your TV to see the 'good judgment' of your fellow Americans. We (not I) voted for this administration twice. No reason to think the majority of the population in Iowa or anywhere else would suddenly wise up. Looks like we will have another 4 or 8 years of incompetence and corruption because that's all that's left.

I hope Joe doesn't endorse any of these candidates until the nomination.

Matthew, NH   January 4th, 2008 12:43 am ET

Californian, I respect the Clintons and especially what President Clinton did in his 8 years in office. However, to say that Obama does not understand what has been changed is naive. He is a smart, educated, and extremely knowledgeable about every issue that is brought up; go beyond the mainstream media, and check out his actual policies on the Obama site. You also bring up the fact that Obama wants to compromise with people that shredded our Constitution. You failed to mention however, that "these people" you refer to transcends the Bush Administration. "These people" includes Senator Clinton, who 1)voted for the US Patriot Act, which restricted civil liberties and 2)voted to authorize the Iraq War, the two things which have done the most damage and most "shredding" of our Constitution. The chance that the same person who was instrumental in the damage done to our country is the one to change it is simply not correct. In terms of experience, don't forget that when Bill Clinton ran in 1992, his experience was also brought into question. And look how it turned out.

Brandon   January 4th, 2008 12:40 am ET

This is an absolute disgrace…

The only two real people in this election are the first two out? How in the hell does something like that happen?

I am quickly losing hope in America. If Hillary or Obama is the nominee, all we'll get in the same old, same old. The same with Romney, McCain, or Huckabee.

If any of this happens, America will officially become a failed experiment. All hands abandon ship!

Gil - California   January 4th, 2008 12:39 am ET

I hope the winner for the Democrats (hopefully Obama) will pick Joe to run as his running mate. I know Biden had already ruled out a VP spot under Clinton but perhaps that won't matter.

Thank you Joe and Chris for running.

David, Roseburg OR   January 4th, 2008 12:35 am ET

Why are you all making such a big deal out of this vote? When was the last time Iowa chose the actual final winner? This is only the first primary, err, Caucus, why is every person acting like this is the final vote and there is no coming back from it? I am not at all upset that Obama won, I am very surprised, happily surprised that is, that he pulled these numbers, it says a lot about projections not working out the way people think they should. Maybe this country is ready to put racism and hatred of females in power aside and actually vote on issues and actions rather than old worn out false values. Yes, I am very pleasantly surprised. I have not made up my mind yet of the top three democrats, but find this very interesting indeed. Oh by the way, congratulations Iowa, fine job of voter turnout, you should be very proud, now if the rest of the country will follow your huge turnout.

Danny G. Boca Raton, FL   January 4th, 2008 12:34 am ET

the youth of America has spoken tonight, my hat off to them. I believe Sen. Clinton showed the most class in her speech, I love biden and I believe he is a very smart man. I know that for all of you that think Obama will grab someone we know as VP is a dream, keep dreaming; he will pick someone NOBODY knows, otherwise his message of change is not entirely true. in either case this campaign is far from over, Sen. Clinton will give it her best and trust me this woman will work harder than anyone for those votes so don't get too confy Sen. Obama the best is yet to come. tonight though congratulations in a very well deserved win.

Greg   January 4th, 2008 12:34 am ET

It is only natural that the field of presidential contenders should narrow as the general elections approach. I am sure both of these men are capable, good prospects for executive leadership. However, there is realistically only room for 1 or 2 front-runners in a primary. What scares me is the results of the Republican election in Iowa. In this day and age, we still have the massive block of voters that would fit in more appropriately with an election held in 1840, instead of the present. In the day when horse-drawn wagons carried the crop to market, it was easy for voters to make simple choices between candidates: the one that comes off as being more "morally upright" wins the boodle. Why? Because among an under-educated, un-informed electorate, that is as deep as the average voter is likely to pursue his investigation into the qualifications of his candidate. So the outcome is, the qualified candidate is trumped by the un-qualified because he is too busy trying to deal with the complex issues of foreign policy, social policy, economic policy and etc. (the real issues) while the lesser candidate only has to roll his eyes toward the sky and talk about how religious he is and how much faith in God he has. Don't get me wrong… I am sure these people are decent, caring people as far as it goes. However, religion is only a part of the everyday considerations that define us. Religion does not automatically make us moral, qualified leaders. Only being a good person makes us a good person. The Ku Klux Klan are real religious and they are scum. Usama Bin Laden is real religious and he is a mass murderer. Case in point: Witness Huckabee's reaction to the Bhutto assassination! He makes some witless rambling statement about "all the Pakistanis entering the country illegially". Are we going to allow yet another un-qualified conservative in the executive office, making us the laughing stock of the world because we are too ignorant to see through the Simple-Simon litmus test of religion only voters that are unable to progress past the 1800s? It would'nt surprise me… How depressing.

Jessica from IA   January 4th, 2008 12:33 am ET

Obama/Biden '08!

BeckyB   January 4th, 2008 12:29 am ET

To Californian: Barack Obama is a professor of constitutional law. He knows more than you think. Get to know him!! You will be amazed at him and what he has accomplished in his lifetime. He CAN change the world!!

BeckyB   January 4th, 2008 12:26 am ET

Joe Biden is a great man and I can see him prominent in an Obama White House! God bless him!

From The North   January 4th, 2008 12:25 am ET

If it's true, that Biden stepped out of the race, how very unfortunate. He is by far the more experienced, capable, credible, and loyal Candidate.
I don't understand why such a small state should have such a large leverage over
an election? Obama won't be elected. And Iowa has just sealed America's fate by forcing Americans to vote for much less qualified and capable candidates.
I'm sure neither America nor the World will thank Iowa.
If Joe truly stepped out of the race, this is a sad day for America and the World.
I hope he won't let one small state make his decision.

Chris   January 4th, 2008 12:24 am ET

Shocker the only two candidates with brains and experience happen to be the first ones to leave. They need to learn how to suck up to Oprah better and have a famous last name. Foolish them, this is America after all.

rclampit   January 4th, 2008 12:22 am ET

Joe Biden is nothing more than D-MBNA. Can't you people remember that he was the crook in the Senate who pushed the Bankruptcy Overhaul faster than even the GOP? I guess the economy doesn't matter anymore does it?

Gobama, NY, NY   January 4th, 2008 12:22 am ET

Dodd laid a great big EGG! LOL

How freaking embarrassing that a US Senator did not get even 1 vote, even though he moved his whole family to con Iowans to vote for him.

David Schlessinger   January 4th, 2008 12:21 am ET

I blame the news media for the dropout of two very intelligent, qualified candidates on the democratic side. Neither Dodd or Biden received virtually any press coverage, despite their qualifications, experience, and leadership. Much the same could be said about Richardson, and Kucinich.

Why does the media ignore these men while lathering attention on the top tiered candidates. It is a cycle that spirals out of control. The major networks, newspapers, even internet media organizations favor certain candidates, and people who want to vote are dependent upon these organizations to learn about the candidacies of people running for election. That is how a democracy works.

These thoughts were echoes on public television tonight during the Iowa caucus. The topic was the three lesser known candidates, Dodd, Richardson, and Biden, and how the media has played a huge part in their candidacies lack of success, or better, "attention".

I think as powerful as big business and corporations are, the news media is just as powerful and should accept more responsibility in informing the public about all candidates, not just those with the most money or rock star like gatherings and attention.

On the Republican side, Huckabee came out of nowhere to garnish voter support, but it was not due to the media. The media just rode the bandwagon after his message started to resonate with the people. The Republicans still have six pretty strong candidates, while the democrats are down to really three serious candidates.

This is not to take away from the top three democratic challengers. However it is very disappointing to me to see intelligent qualified candidates dropping out because their message will never be heard.

Stephanie, Wilmington, DE   January 4th, 2008 12:20 am ET

Joe don't you dare drop out yet.

j monson   January 4th, 2008 12:17 am ET

biden was my choice but our media driven politics win again

Earl   January 4th, 2008 12:16 am ET

It's too bad for Hillary that lobbys can't vote. She might have won Iowa!

Trang, Fremont CA   January 4th, 2008 12:15 am ET

Senator Biden,

Sorry to see you go, senator Biden. Maybe Obama will choose you as VP. Maybe now you can go back to Congress and use your vote to better this country.

Justin W. Chappell   January 4th, 2008 12:13 am ET

Are NH Independent voters now more likely to vote as Republicans supporting John McCain or Democrats supporting Barak Obama?

Vermonter   January 4th, 2008 12:12 am ET

I think that Dodd and Biden are going to throw their support behind Hillary.

Dodd isn't really a factor in NH and neither is Biden, but at least Biden is polling between 4-7 percent.

Also, look for the Governor of NH John Lynch to get into the fray. Endorsement coming to someone in the next 5 days and I have a feeling it may be Clinton as his wife endorsed the Senator.

Yes, Biden and Dodd both out. Great candidates and a shame to see them go.

Chris Atlanta, GA.   January 4th, 2008 12:11 am ET

Biden withdrew from a race either 8 or 12 years ago, I can't remember which one due to a plagerism scandel. What makes him so much better now?

rick michigan   January 4th, 2008 12:10 am ET

i would rather vote republican the vote for obama or edwards this country is going to the dogs for sure what ever happen to honesty and a belife in the middle class im losing my house and my job whats next?

Len, Fallbrook, CA   January 4th, 2008 12:10 am ET

The two best candidates lose, while the rookies win…….very sad.

Trang, Fremont CA   January 4th, 2008 12:10 am ET

Elections are such emotional drain at times. You pour your heart and money out working for some candidate and they quit. At least, those in Iowa gets to vote and get their say. Those is later states often don't get that chances.

I've been on that road before. I am glad my candidate, Obama, wins this time around.

Kaye, Ia   January 4th, 2008 12:06 am ET

Thanks for your efforts in even trying to get into the race. Maybe your the smart one-who would want the job. All the promises the candidants have made will never come true, so heads up for making people get out for the change we need. 4 years from now we will still be talking about the same ole things,, as we have heard the same issues for the last 12 years and nothing has changed. It's a good thing that we Iowans go to work, and pay our bills as Washington just uses us as a ploy for the yellow brick road. When I go broke, I'm calling D.C. to bail me out!!!!

Emily   January 4th, 2008 12:05 am ET

Tonight i am in shock.

These three main candidates talk about experience and how they have it, which they don't.

Joe Biden was the true candidate with experience and tonight Iowa blew it, badly.

Joe Biden was the only candidate who had a plan on Iraq, the best on education and healthcare, and one of the few candidates who has not had negitive ad's towards the others.

How dare we. Just because he's not a big name, doesn't mean that he was the best.

To Joe, thank you for all you have done for the people. Because of you, you have given me hope and for that i thank you. No matter what you will be my first choice.

truth_bringer   January 4th, 2008 12:03 am ET

Maybe Iowa is the new Kansas and these caucuses are the new OZ. I cannot believe that Sen. Biden was overlooked soo much. Sen. Biden is quite simpley and clearly the best candidate across both fields. I am sorry for America…if either of the two Iowa "winners" are elected then we will get more of the same (as Bush) and America will again be the loser.

Gracey Knowles, Dallas   January 4th, 2008 12:03 am ET

Biden would still be a viable candidate if Clinton hadn't stolen his support by lying about her qualifications and experience. Hillary should now recognise that voters can see through the smoke and mirrors and withdraw for the sake of both the country and the Democratic party.

MTiguey   January 4th, 2008 12:01 am ET

Wow! I am about to cry! I have been a huge Biden supporter for a while now and think he has all of the right qualities for President. Poor guy, he has been a public servant for all these years, actually put research and thought into the war and healthcare, and is a very succint, dynamic speaker and he got screwed! He is such a good guy and such a solid candidate. I am unbelievably amazed how stupid Americans can be. Though Barack is an excellent candidate and could probably do the job, I think he is not as experienced, flip flops a bit, and doesn't measure up on the personal experiences Biden has in areas of foreign policy, dealing with both parties etc. Biden is liked by both sides, works with repubs and dems alike, and has actually been to Iraq, Afghanistan, Sarajevo and Kosovo.

But Americans don't appreciate all that-they just got for the buzz words and base their voting decisions on ONE good speech by Obama. People, dig a little deeper when making a decision about a candidate.

Oh, well at least Guiliani lost big time-but he is too arrogant to step down. Edwards and Barack are the only halfway decent choices at this point.

Chris Loveall   January 4th, 2008 12:00 am ET

How come nobody is talking about the realities of what winning the Iowa Caucus means (or not)? There are plenty of historic discrepancies between which candidates won past Iowa Caucuses versus who actually went on to win their respective party nominations.

Below is a list of previous Iowa Caucus winners vs. Actual Party Nominees… but what about historic elections of the past?

1980
Iowa: George Bush (R), Jimmy Carter (D)
US: Ronald Reagan (R), Jimmy Carter (D)

1984
Iowa: Ronald Reagan (R) (no Republican Caucus), Walter Mondale (D)
US: Ronald Reagan (R), Walter Mondale (D)

1988
Iowa: Bob Dole (R), Richard Gephardt (D)
US: George Bush (R), Michael Dukakis (D)

1992
Iowa: George Bush (R) (no Republican Caucus), Tom Harkin (D)
US: George Bush (R), Bill Clinton (D)

1996
Iowa: Bob Dole (R), Bill Clinton (D) (no Democratic Caucus)
US: Bob Dole (R), Bill Clinton (D)

2000
Iowa: George W. Bush (R), Al Gore (D)
US: George W. Bush (R), Al Gore (D)

2004
Iowa: George W. Bush (R) (no Republican Caucus), John Kerry (D)
US: George W. Bush (R), John Kerry (D)

kumar   January 3rd, 2008 11:58 pm ET

I agree. Joe Biden is the most experienced candidate and also the smartest. Obama is also very smart and inspiring. We need to heal this divide and Obama could do that. Obama and Biden will make a great team. I will love to vote for them any time

Jimenez   January 3rd, 2008 11:57 pm ET

I like Joe Biden. He has always been my 2nd choice. Sir I want to apologize to you that our great country thought that Obama was a better candidate than you. This is what our country has become – a mockery. When I watch you on TV I did sit straight and listen versus almost falling asleep when I watch Obama. This is where our country is at right now. Tonight I regret what happened today as I watched how the dollar is slumping internationally. I yearned for a push. That is Clinton. She is the force. God Bless Our Country.

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   January 3rd, 2008 11:55 pm ET

As a Democrat, I have enjoyed listening to Biden throughout the campaigning and debate process. He is a true democrat that will fight for us. Although I am for Obama, I would love to see an Obama/Edwards ticket, with Biden as the Secretary of State. How great would that be!

Cheers Democrats

jay   January 3rd, 2008 11:47 pm ET

It's too bad that it wasn't until two days before the Iowa caucuses that people realized that Biden was easily the best candidate in either party.

I've been following his career for years. Perhaps his biggest achievement, oddly enough is something that he probably didn't talk about much on the campaign trail this year – he led the fight to pass the Brady Bill in the US Senate in the mid-nineties. This was the bill named after Reagan's press secretary Jim Brady, who was permanently maimed (brain damage I think) after someone fired a shot at Reagan. That underscores the fact that that bill, and all others like it, had been continually stymied in Congress up until that point.

And it is particularly difficult to pass controversial legislation in the Senate, where members can and will use the filibuster and other delaying tactics.

Until Joe came along. He argued, cajoled, begged, yelled, mocked, and negotiated for months until he got the bill passed. This was all carried on C-SPAN (Joe is not at all camera shy). Before passage, both parties threatened to derail it by tacking on pork barrel projects and other silly amendments. I think Bob Dole personally lead the opposition to the bill.

After it was signed by Bill Clinton, Sen. Mitchell from Maine made the following observation about Biden: "he is not only one of the most hardworking members of the Senate, but he is also the most effective member in the Senate."

BTW apparently that law became unpopular, so it was allowed to expire a few years ago.

SusanWY   January 3rd, 2008 11:47 pm ET

I have supported Biden and really had hoped for a fourth place finish, but now I think he should pack it in and should get his ass back to the Senate and start a) INVESTIGATIONS of the real CRIMES Bush & Co have committed and b) push for the house to start impeachment hearings. Our only hope now it to take down the Bush administration so that no matter who the nominee is, a democrat will win because we have TOTALLY exposed the republicans as frauds.

rose   January 3rd, 2008 11:47 pm ET

Hillary is my candidate but she needs to reach down into the average
person like me. Female,60 and living on low income. Get the real people
in your race let them speak for you and with you. Many see you above and out
of touch with us. I know getting the right people speaking out can make you
rise in the races. You don't need celebrities speak for you but let those in the
real world know feel your concern and love for the people. Go Hillary!

Kenny, Vero Beach, FL   January 3rd, 2008 11:45 pm ET

PREDICTION!!!!!!!!!!!!

Barack Obama – President

John Edwards – Vice-president (if he wins NH and Obama picks from the Dems)
Michael Bloomberg -Vice-president (if Obama reaches out to the Independents)

Secretary of State – Bill Richardson or Chris Dodd

Secretary of Defense – Joe Biden

Attorney General – John Edwards (if he doesn't accept the VP position)

Steve   January 3rd, 2008 11:45 pm ET

Biden was clearly the smartest and best person for the job as President. Its a shame that he wasnt the best "Candidate" I am now supportin Obama because I believe he will have to take someone with the experience if he wins and Biden did very well so it might be him

David M   January 3rd, 2008 11:44 pm ET

Obama, What a speech, Please run for Prime Minister of Canada.

Stoney Creek, Ontario

Joe Vanderbosch, Appleton, WI   January 3rd, 2008 11:44 pm ET

Too bad Biden, I have supported you for so long. It has been a good ride.

Californian   January 3rd, 2008 11:41 pm ET

I am sorry that Biden and Dodd did not back Clinton as they stepped down. Tremendous damage has been done to our nation in the past 8 years and we need a team of people who have a real understanding of what has been changed to fix it. I will not back Obama as he wants to get together with the people who have shredded our constitution and compromise with them. That is is the problem we have now. Give me back the Clintons any way we can get them. They know how to undo the damage. In a less crucial time we can risk feel good, now we need fix it.

Brian, Phoenix, AZ   January 3rd, 2008 11:41 pm ET

Iowans–and Americans in general–are idiots. We get the novelty candidates we deserve—or that Iowans dictate to us. No more analysis is necessary.

I was hoping to get the opportunity to vote for Biden, the best candidate running, and now I can't. But because I'm a registered Independent, I will vote in the Republican primary in Arizona simply to spite the Dems for this unforgivable lapse of judgment.

Saint, Providence, RI   January 3rd, 2008 11:36 pm ET

If Senator Biden decides he must abandon his campaign, it will be another sad day for this great country of ours. Indeed, for me personally, it will hurt as much as it did four decades ago when America chose Richard Nixon over Senator Hubert Humphrey. Will we ever get it right and be the best that we can be?

fan from de   January 3rd, 2008 11:35 pm ET

Hang in there, Joe, you're our only real hope. Maybe the people in N.H. are smarter. Please don't give up.

caforjoe   January 3rd, 2008 11:35 pm ET

If Obama has any sense, he will have Biden for VP, or at least SOS.

Allison   January 3rd, 2008 11:31 pm ET

I believe that there is a spelling error in your title – Biden is spelled as such NOT Bideon

Iowan for Richardson   January 3rd, 2008 11:30 pm ET

Ah, the joys of the Iowa Caucus!

In our precinct this evening, we had 55 Richardson supporters, but we needed 63 to be viable. In other words, Richardson had 13% of the total vote, but, due to caucus rules, we walked away empty-handed. So don't let the low Iowa numbers fool you, Richardson is definitely in the double-digits in the Hawkeye State!

Alex   January 3rd, 2008 11:30 pm ET

Rest in peace, Joe Biden. Please consider a secretary of state position.

Jim Caffrey   January 3rd, 2008 11:28 pm ET

What a shame. He's so much better than all of the other candidates. I'm doing my best not to have sour grapes.

jammer   January 3rd, 2008 11:28 pm ET

How funny…all of you played into CNN….did any of you SEE "Paul" ???? who's that?

Nicholas Rowley   January 3rd, 2008 11:28 pm ET

Biden and Dodd need to give their endorsement to Edwards, Obama and Hilary cannot and will not carry the ticket all the way and win the general election. We need the most electable democrat, and the only one who beats republicans on their own turf is Edwards, not to mention the only one who has not taken Washington Lobbyist and Corporate money. Vote for an American not a career politician. Their endorsement could give Edwards what he needs. Either of them would make great VPs on an Edwards ticket.

Christine from Iowa   January 3rd, 2008 11:27 pm ET

I am sad to hear this! It is unfortunate Biden did not get the national support that he deserved. By far he is the best choice and I hope to see more of him in the future. I think we messed this one up in Iowa. Best of luck to you Sen. Biden!

Joe, Georgetown, DE   January 3rd, 2008 11:25 pm ET

We'll be happy to have you as Senator for 6 more years, Joe!

Scott   January 3rd, 2008 11:25 pm ET

Congratulations to Biden and Dodd and all the candidates for investing their time and effort in this election. Without them, the system will not work. I just watched the speeches from both parties and I'm looking forward to the general election for the first time in years.

Josh   January 3rd, 2008 11:25 pm ET

I'm thinking Obama/Richardson or Obama/Biden

Obama 08

caforjoe   January 3rd, 2008 11:22 pm ET

Will wait to hear from Biden camp whether this is true.

AJ, IL   January 3rd, 2008 11:21 pm ET

Very good. I respect both Biden and Dodd. Both need to back Obama. I think Dodd will but Biden will probably wait till after Feb 5th.

Manish Bidasaria   January 3rd, 2008 11:20 pm ET

The most qualified candidate in this race, hands down, just dropped out. Way to go Iowa.

Sam, Plymouth, MN   January 3rd, 2008 11:20 pm ET

Took the words from my mouth, LQ…you beat me to it! ;-)

LQ ROCHESTER MN   January 3rd, 2008 11:14 pm ET

I am sorry he has to do this. I was hoping he would have a much better showing.

Now I know I will vote for Obama. I am sitting here now watching him speak on CNN. I am cheering and crying tears of joy. I have hope of becoming proud of my country once again.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08!!!!

Almost 382 more days left of GWB and hopefully only 382 more days to a new proud and united country.

Patrick Purcell   January 3rd, 2008 11:13 pm ET

I support you Senator Biden, and I am dissappointed you will not remain in the race.

alan   January 3rd, 2008 11:12 pm ET

Too bad. Biden is such a better choice than Obama

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