January 6, 2008
Posted: 04:50 PM ET

ALT TEXT
Sen. John Edwards catches a pass as he shoots baskets in Lebanon, New Hampshire Saturday. (Photo Credit: AP)


WASHINGTON (CNN) — Democrat John Edwards said Sunday he will stay in the presidential race through the party's convention in late August, even if he fails to win any of the early presidential primary states.

"This is the call of my life, and I have no intention of stopping," Edwards said on ABC's This Week. "I'm in this through the convention and to the White House."

Asked specifically if he'd remain a candidate even if he failed to garner a win over the next month, Edwards said, "Absolutely."

The former North Carolina senator and 2004 vice presidential candidate edged out rival Hillary Clinton for second place in the Iowa caucuses Thursday, and a new CNN/WMUR poll taken entirely after Iowa voters weighed in shows a slight bump for Edwards in the Granite State, though he remains in a distant third at 20 percent among like Democratic voters there. Barack Obama, the winner of the Iowa caucuses, and Clinton are tied at 33 percent.

Also Sunday, Edwards denied a formal alliance between himself and Obama against Clinton, but he continued to paint the New York Democrat as symbolic of the status-quo in Washington and called for a two-person debate between himself and Obama.

"Voters here in New Hampshire and in all the future states need an unfiltered debate between the two of us about who can best bring about change," he said.

Related video: Edwards campaigns in N.H.

Related: Poll: Clinton, Obama tied in New Hampshire

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • John Edwards • New Hampshire


S. A.   January 9th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

For our Country the best combination will be Obama as President and Edwards as Vice-President !!!

Nazir Jamal   January 8th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Can Hillary cry her the way to the White House?
I don't think so, she showed weakness, I don't think she can handle being a president, and I very much doubt that tears will get her way with domestic and foreign issues.
It's Barack O Mania in America!!!

Barack Obama   January 7th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Hi, my name is Barack Obama and I like to poach from John Edwards campaign strategies, because I have no clue of how to run this country.

John Edwards 2008!

SH- Alabama   January 7th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Please stay!!! I want to be able to vote for my candidate not one that a few small states pick for me.
Come on South Carolina and Florida . . . give John Edwards a boost before we get to our Super Tuesday primaries. He could use the support and we as a country need him in Washington D.C.

Jeff - Jacksonville FL   January 7th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

People keep saying - Edwards or Obama need to get Hillary out of the race.

There's only one way that HRC will actually get out of the Presidential race.
And that is if all the Democratic primary voters will get her out by NOT VOTING for her.

She may have a lock on a number of the superdelegates, but if we, as Democrats, can get enough pledged delegates to vote for her at the convention, then the way will be set for an Obama/Edwards or Edward/Obama ticket. Trust me, neither one of them will ask HRC to be their VP. That would be Mondale/Ferraro all over again, IMHO.

But Obama/Edwards would not only be an electable ticket, but it would put them in positions to really make the changes they're talking about.
As VP, Edwards would be President of the Senate, and I think he could wield that gavel very well.

Darth Cheney has been the most powerful VP in US History, but imagine if someone like Edwards (or even Obama) could trump him and use that power for good instead of going to the dark side. :)

And with the potential for up to 3 Supreme Court Justices retiring in the next 4-8 years..Bush's stacking of the court could be potentially reversed and freedom could once again ring loud and clear in this country.

Obama/Edwards - 08

Mark   January 7th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Is that too hard for the media to swallow? The first 10 or 15 minutes of the NH debate looked like the Obama/Clinton Show.

Finally when Edwards was given a chance to talk, he made mention a few times that in Iowa…. he came in second, he beat Hillary, now that she's behind….

It's about time somebody said it! Too bad he has to toot his own horn. The press should be saying it, calling it an upset, a surprise victory over Hillary, a second-place showing. Isn't that what NEWS is? Something unexpected? Instead, they continue to talk like it's a two-way race between Hillary & Obama.

Is it not newsworthy that Obama & Clinton outspent Edwards by about 4 to 1, and Edwards still managed to come in second?

Is it not newsworthy that Obama bussed in college students from Illinois to vote in the Iowa caucus, because in Iowa you can register and vote the same day?

Is it just a coincidence that the media is continually promoting the two candidates that the Republicans would most like to run against?

Jamie   January 7th, 2008 11:49 am ET

John Edwards is the most viable candidate in the democratic party to beat a republican in Nov. Sure, Obama and Clinton have star power (shhhh! because they are a black man and a woman) and don't forget Oprah. I say Edwards/Obama is the winning ticket. Combined, they've got enough experience. But not too much to be corrupt (Clinton). Also, Edwards can capture the southern /rural/heartland vote (important) and Obama would capture, the right/left coast liberals, young people, women, and the black vote. Together, they could do alot of good and turn this country around.

CD   January 7th, 2008 10:36 am ET

The best choice for Democrats is not Obama/ Edwards, but Edwards/ Obama. They are much more electible that way.

GG, Frisco, Texas   January 7th, 2008 9:35 am ET

Obama/Edward ticket. I see it coming. And Jimmy from Iowa. If you haven't sat down with your child to discuss drugs….shame on you. You should be your child's role model…..don't blame Obama. We all make mistake but it takes a man to come out public to say he made mistake in past. That's how you heal which has motivate others to get their lives in order. With his message that overcome our personal problem where we are able to be successful in the end. So don't blame him take a good look at yourself before you start pointing finger at others.

Gane   January 7th, 2008 9:25 am ET

Senator Edwards, I would NOT vote for you because you are making your case only on of the expense of Hilary Clinton.

Gentleman?! What is it? On the debate you ware like a Hyena over her, before her suit… Is that a simple jealousy lire most of American women (surprise for me, even Pakistanis are more advance in this meter and Bhutto was killed from her enemies).

Second, do you deny that "Clinton's machine" work peaty well for americans for 8 years ?

It is partly your fault. Why didn't you win the Election in 2000? Now you are blaming Hilary that America is really in a big …

You still play your ego agenda, Sur! Obama will be chewed and spit from Republicans, because he has not very much to offer then word "Change" (He sounds to me like those communist leaders who had been feeding the people only with nice word and hopes of future almost heavenly life; UTOPIA, eh , worked for some period).

Americans , please, just do not compare him with JFK.

If you really are talking from your heard, it is not late you to make some REAL CHANGE- make sure Democrat to be in the Oval office this time even that is not you.

As I rite on a CNN goes a Braking New about Iranians? I imagine Senator Obama in the Oval office with pence full of..

Wake up Americans, it is very serious , do not blow it again!

Leslie   January 7th, 2008 7:56 am ET

John Edwards 2008

Lets see some equal coverage in the media!

Seeing Truth   January 7th, 2008 4:33 am ET

I am just completely shattered to see so many people support a candidate like Obama. They say one picture is worth a thousand words and to me, THAT is fact! I have many times seen the picture of democratic candidates saluting the flag when they appeared together at an outdoor event some months back. If you know what picture I am talking about then you remember that Obama refused to salute the flag and stood there with his hands in his pockets. That is NOT a man I want for my commander and chief.

And Hillary is riding on her husband's history. I liked Bill, but I can't stand Hillary.

Edwards is the smart choice for the democrats. Anything else and the republicans will probably keep the white house. Bad move for the dem party.

Marie   January 7th, 2008 2:21 am ET

Edwards is the only person I want for our next President — Anybody who cares for their future and the future of this country should be voting for Edwards!

Kyu Reisch, Radcliff, Kentucky   January 7th, 2008 1:57 am ET

S.K.M, Boston, what kind of math are you using? Obama counted his experience of foreign policy from under 10 years old and college study too. You should read Hillary's Living History first before open your silly mouth. Hillary's experiences are over 35 years if she count like Obama did. People refuse to know Hillary and criticize her, it is not a contructive idea for our Country. Just read "Living History", then you will recognize how foolish your comment is.

Claude Robotham   January 7th, 2008 1:46 am ET

Edwards' quest is quixotic. He was the candidate best positioned to benefit from the idiosyncrasies of Iowa's caucus process, yet still he lost. While I agree with his position on corporate greed, Edwards is not an effective messenger and he sounds increasingly shrill. Perhaps the best way he can facilitate change is to withdraw, rather than to divide the anti-Hillary vote and inadvertently aid her cause.

radlib1   January 7th, 2008 12:42 am ET

Hey, Beamon, maybe you should talk to your own therapist. John Edwards is honestly "angry", not "crazy" angry, because he is fighting for the millions of poor and middle class Americans. Just because a person is passionate and concerned about real issues doesn't make them out-of-control. He's channeling what are obviously strong feelings in a truly righteous cause — health insurance and tax relief for the poor and the middle class.

Actually, rather than go to a therapist, maybe you should go to a voting booth and cast your ballot for John Edwards for President.

It just might make you feel better about yourself.

Anonymous   January 6th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

Go John Go!

me ofcourse   January 6th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

Hey voters out there! Politics is a very complicated subject…
Politics is not about looking good or trying to lecture people…Obama is the one beeing artificially prop up, not Clinton. The latter can actually do the work and bring us back to stability and confidence. Gop supporters and Independents are voting for Obama because they want somebody that they can easily tear down during the general election.. Think about it! In real politics race can not play a big factor, but experience count… This is the first nation in the face of the planet… Carefully select a 'Leader', not a talker or an immature.. Let us not mention Edwards; he's looking @ obama shoulders for running mate like last time; but this time he is not getting.. Even the most sublime forces of nature will not let it happen or let America in the hands of 2 immatures!! If they get the nomination, that will be it for the Democratic party!!! Thus, I'll be campaigning and voting for McCain or any other GOP nominee..This is not personal or the race for the Senate.
YOU ALL WANTED GORE, BUSH WON… That is how it works… YOU ALL LIKE IMMATURES AND VERY ENERGIZED GUYS, but Clinton will have the most delegates at the end of the dayyyy.. Don't be last to line up to vote for her

Cameron Lynch   January 6th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

I feel that Edwards WILL be president in my lifetime, maybe not this time but he will get it. He has such focus and passion for the job and I think he will be great when he finally does win it. As a democrat I'm really excited about this year b/c I love all the canidates and don't really care who wins the nod. I'm ready to support any of the 4 still in the race but deep down I kinda hope it's Hillary.

Ava Mae Lewis   January 6th, 2008 11:20 pm ET

jimmy, Iowa

If you haven't 'splained to your kids about Bush's hooch and cocain, and how a Christian can go to war against innocent women and children for no reason,
then you don't have to worry about it.

Once you get that explained to them, it will be easy to explain Obama.

Desiree   January 6th, 2008 11:13 pm ET

John Edwards was once my first choice but now he's my last. He changes as the wind blows and now his recent pact with Obama, he's just not the John Edwards I used to like, he's so bitter. I hope he gets something from his pact with Obama but he won't be my vote. I wish I could take back my donation.

4john   January 6th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Kieth Olberman was the only one who noted the $$ spent by Edwards in Iowa in contrast to Obama and Clinton.

My amateur prediction is that if Edwards can show above 20 pts in NH and finish 1st or 2nd in South Carolina - preferably first - then he's positioned to cause big problems on super Tuesday — if he can get his message out there.

No matter what: the top 2 stories are Obama's success and Hillary's failure….. not a lot of sound bites time for Edwards.

DJ   January 6th, 2008 11:01 pm ET

Comments by the name Realist, it seems you are very stupid and I would say other words but don't want my message delete, it seems that you are a sexist and racist to the 3rd degree. America is for change and a Black man or a woman could win. I don't like hilary but one of the 2 could win. Obama is our man, he can do it.

Jimmy   January 6th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

Hillary Clinton for President 2008. John you can not go to Washington with a chip on your shoulder a expect change.

J. McKinney SW MO   January 6th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Get your thinking caps on, folks. We need Hillary, who actually has the experience to be president. The Clintons are loved all over the world–and can get America respected again.
Edwards is a silly little banty rooster. I am sick of hearing him and seeing him. And the way he is trying to get himself 2nd, (tho he hasn't a chance), because of the silly way the caucus works, is ridiculous. Obama wouldn't ask him to be VP anyway, I don't think.
Hillary is ready to go–REALLY–not just verbally "fired up and ready to go". I have never heard Obama say just what change he has in mind, except it will be a change to have a black president, I guess. Same as it would be a change to have a woman president. Only difference is that the black one is inexperienced, and the woman is ready to run things from day 1. We need Hillary. She actually knows how to make the changes, not just talk about them.

Mariel Seattle WA   January 6th, 2008 10:12 pm ET

I'm for Edwards, as the best Dem candidate, the one who will really fight for the middle class. I'm surprised Lou Dobbs doesn't see this, but he seems to be thinking about Michael Bloomberg (or someone like him) as an Independent candidate. As far as I can see Bloomberg is status quo. Not a man of the people, although a competent mayor as Guiliani was.

We in the middle class will no longer be middle class if things don't change.

Mariel

Danny G   January 6th, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Alfred Bills…God bless you.

The facts are that this race isn't about any single issue. The world has become incredibly complex and most issues are very much interrelated. It takes clarity of vision and a very strong dose of independence to have a real impact in the world today. We need a John Kennedy…someone who understands the reality of politics but also has the vision to inspire Americans to rise above partisanship and petty party politics.

This contest is much like the last several…a popularity contest where the candidates try to figure out how to best pander for votes. Only Edwards has the ability to overcome the raw politics, and this is where his lack of fund raising actually helps him, as he isn't a puppet pulled by the strings of the financial backers like the other candidates.

BEAMON   January 6th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

Hey John. Talk to a therapist about your anger - not me.

Melissa   January 6th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

We Americans are "DOOMED" if John Edwards does not become President!

Edwards is the only candidate who is even making any since and is the only one with a real plan to fix years of piles of crap from the Bush Boy's!

It is time someone truly stood up for " WE THE PEOPLE". President Bush will not
admit how much trouble we are in, he candy coats everything. But look around, people are suffering right here in American.

John Edwards is ready to take on big corporations, and stop them from buying into Washington. That sounds great to me, and I believe he will do it.

Edwards Heath Care Plan and Taxing Plans are just what we Americans need and it would help millions of people.

And best of all, he is ready to end the war.

To me, John Edwards is the only candidate for the working class, and Obama is only repeating everything that John Edwards has already said.

Hillary is like Bush, an "old school politician" and who do needs anymore of that!

JDMc in NH   January 6th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Is it be possible that we could frame this presidential campaign in some way other than a unrepresentative, combative, winner-take-all primary mess we seem saddled with?

I appreciate the, consistent and strongly articulated positions which John Edwards has taken. I've also liked Obama's recent call for a national Coalition for Change. I'd suggest that Obama and Edwards join forces to present the strongest imaginable national leadership team . Their styles are complimentary and the policies are quite similar and, hopefully, still work in progress.

Obama and Edwards in '08 - that sounds like an amazing ticket to me. Two of the strongest leaders we could ever hope for joining forces to undo the Bush damage of the past eight years and facilitating the many changes we have been hoping for.

And, by the way, what is going on with the Federal Elections Commission and our need for adequate fund-matching for current campaigns and our concerns about election fraud, faulty voting machines, paper trails, voter lists, etc? We should all be deeply troubled by the lack of attention and progress on these matters in the White House and Congress. ???

Duncan McCutchan

JR Morris   January 6th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Why is the media ignoring Edwards. It has gotten so bad that i was beginning to think he had droped out. Just another instance of the media influence i guess.

Edwards for President

kate   January 6th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

John Edwards id the ONLY Democratic Candidate who will get the vote of this lifelong Democrat.
Hillary , I'm tired of Clintons and Bushes running the Country.
This ain't no Monarchy!
Obama, you are a 1st term Senator who has spent all that time RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT!

John Edwards was INSPIRATIONAL last night!
Hillary sounded angry.
And Obama seemed to me to be parroting Edwards' theme.

John is the Democratic party's best hope to take back the White House.

pam Eugene OR   January 6th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Hi Vic in Sugar Land.
I admit those are admiral things she has accomplished but still do not see how any of those things you mentioned get her any more experience in leading and organizing this country than the others. I do have to wonder about the six years on the board for Wal Mart which you left out.
I believe the primary reason that she was unable to make heath care work the first time is that she is incapable of working well with others. Hillary is not able to unite people. Universal health care is a great idea and should have worked in the 90's. I am not in favor mandated anything, even health care. It will take much more than wanting it to happen. Our President will need to work across party lines to accomplish anything and she is not the person to do that. I consider my self to be fairly well informed on Hillary's resume and positions. My son. a successful attorney is a big Hillary supporter and we have debated her for year now. Don't worry…she will get his vote and we will cancel each other out.
May the best man win!

Uma, mpls, MN   January 6th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

John Edward was almost naked in yesterday's debate; he was siding towards Obama so badly as if he needed Obama to survive. Same on him! I found Hillary is very knowledgeable in each topic among democratic candidate. she is one of the smartest person but her gender is wrong for American macho society, that's the only one reason Hillary is back. But I believe NH she will win.

I am a democrat but i will never vote for this trial layer who is so much phony.

Bruce J Simpson   January 6th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Edwards all the way, and I am running for delegate pledged to John.

Tim Calhoun '08, Moreno Valley, CA   January 6th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Sue said Hillary Clinton "understands the Middle East and will be a force for positive change (not war!) there." Um…what? She voted for the Iraq war all the way down the line and also the Kyl-Lieberman Act which declared the Iranian military a "terrorist organization." And unlike John Edwards, she hasn't even bothered to say she was wrong about Iraq.

Dee Ward Mena, AR   January 6th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

John after your attack on Hillary in the debates last night I would never vote for you for anything. you used to be a nice guy but I guess when you are losing then you attack anyone you think gets in your way. I wouldn't have been surprised to see you hug and kiss obama last night you were so buddy, buddy with him. It was really sickning. At one time I thought you were the candidate of choice but no more. Anyone who can turn on a fellow candidate like you did would not be a good president or vice president. Just remember how mean you were last night when you look in the mirror. You won't be going much farther or if you do you will just be wasting your money and the money of your supporters. You might as well drop out now. If you were the nominee, and you won't be, I would have to vote Republican, something I never though I could do. No one should vote for you because you have a pretty face, or obama because he is black (half black that is) or Hillary because she is a woman, they should vote for the best qualified person for the job and that is definitely Hillary. GO HILLARY

Karen Grube   January 6th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

I've never contributed to an election campaign before, but I have been contributing a small amount to the John Edwards campaign each month for the past year.

Hillary Clinton is too entrenched with the corporate lobbyists to do us any good. As far as I'm concerned she'd only continue giving these large corporations exactly what they want because she has been listening to them and meeting with them far too often to expect anything else. And I'm basing this in part on the so-called survey she sent to Democrats early last year about the time she declared her candidacy. All of the questions had pre-implied answers and were so one-sided it was ridiculous, and none of them even began to address the very serious problems we have in this country, It was clear from the start that she was only looking for people to focus only surface 'hot button' issues, and not on the important issues like the employment and housing crisis we face and stopping Congress from wasting billions of dollars each year on all these stupid entitlements. In other words, the questions she asked about health care, for example, were geared toward still paying off the insurance and pharmceutical companies who would lose money if there were any real reform in health care. Frankly, I was disgusted and wrote a very angry letter back asking her not to insult my intelligence like that again.

As much as I respect Barach Obama's desire to bring change to the presidency, I simply don't think he's capable. I really don't. I honestly believe that this country will only find real change for the better if John Edwards becomes our next President.

jp/michigan   January 6th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

The debate show us an EDWARDS AND OBAMA ticket. They will have to fight it out who will be President or vice president. Edwards needs a job.

Wynter   January 6th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Edwards is playing games with the Primary voters. He knows he can't make it to the end. So he is playing Obama's backup in an effort to be tagged as his VP running mate. Worst of all he is playing spoiler to Hillary by attacking her "for" the Obama Camp. I am beginning to change my opinion of this lawyer turned politician. He is disreputable.

Wynter
Loudon, NH

JAMIE BROCK   January 6th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT, HES READY TO LEAD , HE FOR THE LITTLE PEOPLE AND HE WILL FIGHT FOR ALL OF US ,

Kristy Show Me State   January 6th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

HISTORY–

ABRAHAM LINCOLN WAS A TRIAL LAWYER TOO!

WE ALL SEEM TO REMEMBER HIM AS ONE OF THE GREAT PRESIDENTS THAT MADE A HUGE CHANGE!!

JOHN EDWARDS–STAND STRONG

Leslie Anne Geddes   January 6th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Where is the media coverage of John Edwards?

Kelligesq   January 6th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

If you want to see John Edwards in the White HOuse start contributing on his website.

It doesnt matter whether it's 10/15/ or $20 or if youcan send
$100 or $1000 absolutely do it. He needs the money because unlike Hillary and Obama he didnt take any pac or lobbyist money. Everything he gets will be matched by the feds but not until March, which leaves him short of money to keep going.

So if you can send anything, send it.

I'm convinced he would return America to what it's supposed to be: FOR THE PEOPLE !!

J Williamson Buffalo, NY   January 6th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

I'm annoyed at you media folks for STILL only focusing on Hillary/Obama. Edwards took second place in Iowa, and by tradition, the spot-light moves to the the two top finishers in the New Hampshire contest. This hasn't happened! WHY? Mr. Edwards finished Iowa with a significantly higher percentage of the vote in Iowa over his 2004 showing (he came in second that year as well). I'm sure Hillary/Obama makes great copy (great story, no doubt!), but be fair and mentally honest about it.

Kristy Show Me State   January 6th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

GO-JOHN-GO!

My family is going to stay right with you! Excellent DEBATE showing!
Your 12:00 rally shown on CSPAN hits the soul!

John my family loves to see your passion (INSPIRING)!

JOHN ALL THE WAY!

JA   January 6th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

An Obama/Edwards debate would be great but that would make Hillary pout.
The leading candidates for the Democratic Party all have legal backgrounds. I tell you if I needed a lawyer to fight for me from that group it would be Edwards hands down.
Sat by his wife at a town meeting in Iowa….Great lady, common and down-to-Earth. Yes, they have a few bucks and are living the American Dream but it wasn't handed to them. I suppose if I had worked my butt off and gone to law school I could be way more comfortable than I am now.
I like Obama but I am not sure he has enough fight to square up to those that aren't willing to negotiate.

sam   January 6th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Not surre if Edward in running for Pres or VP. He teamed up with Obama to bring down Hillary, that is quiet interesting. And for media they have thier own stories and headlines.

Tim   January 6th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

CNN - Where is the coverage of the 3000+ that attended Hillary's rally today? The American people are waiting for you to be fair and give equal an unbiased coverage to all the candidates. Stop selling us Obama. Not everyone one has bought the hype. We are not zombies that do just what the media tells us to do. Report the facts!

Harold Bishop, NH   January 6th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Hang in there John, and defeat Hillary!

Obama for President!
Edwards for VP!

=Republicans: no chance!

Kevin   January 6th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

It would be great if the media would stop building up and or tearing down the canadices of various politicians. The media are all trying to make great predictions and comments in order to improve their ratings as opposed to reporting on the issues and how they effect everyday working Americans. Good luck John, even if you do not win at least keep standing up for the middle class.

Duncan, Richmond, VA   January 6th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I like Edwards, but I don't like his approach to increasing welfare and socialized programs.

lochukung   January 6th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

both Edwards and Obama have chosen their paths with predetermined convictions (for that matter, so is Hillary). Edwards chose to be a niche lawyer not because he loved the poor (give me proof he did not sue primarily for money on behalf of his clients). whatever he took, it's part of blood money awarded to the victims. if it's not the potential windfall in award money, Edwards would not have taken up the cases. Of course he does not work for free. But please do not spin on the same wheel by proclaiming "I fight the big corporations for you". What he intentionally missed is the word "and your money". It's the same trail any high achievers tread after successfully pursuing one goal in making tons of money then turning to politics as a higher goal (euphimistically) not different to Govornor Jon Corzine or Mike Bloomberg. However,what I am seeing is a once successful attorney who cannot accept the defeat from the last case by trying to win vindication despite assured defeat for the second time and despite his wife's ailment. He looked even more desperate in presenting his case by aligning with Obama under the banner of "change" hoping to grab anything that floats and by attacking and side-stepping Hillary Clinton hoping he could be the second man left standing.
As for Obama, anybody who denies he has the ambition to be the president of this country from an early age is naive given his well-planned political road map. He once denied his aspiration to the presidency when he first ran for the Senate. Now it's all clear the presidency is his ultimate goal when the political climate suddenly swinged to his favor. By all means, he is not different from any other politician except that he is a better cameieon appealing to the same colors of his supporters. It's all about packaging and slogan stupid. "change" is a 2 edge sword. it might turn out to be for the worst under his presidency. caveat emptor.

Grant Devereaux   January 6th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

People complain that Trial Lawyers who work on a percentage get too much money. I used to think the same thing. What you do not realize is if they do not win a case, they eat all the costs associated with the case and the client pays nothing.

Most people cannot afford to hire a lawyer to take on big corporations, and thus are lucky to have percentage trial lawyers. Otherwise, they would get 100% of nothing.

John Edwards got rich by proving corporations did terrible things to people, on purpose or through gross negligence, not just by accident. Thank God for trial lawyers, or you children would be playing with poison toys and your dog would be dead form dog food coming in, uninspected, from China!

No, I am not a lawyer.

Karen, NYC   January 6th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

He seems desperate

NC Boy   January 6th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Ask someone in NC about Edwards' term as our senator…

(Someone mentioned he couldn't get re-elected, but that's incorrect; he didn't run again after his VP run in 2004.)

He spent four years in the senate, then spent the next two running for President and VP. He certainly did not earn the love and respect of North Carolinians by fighting for us — once elected, he headed to DC and stayed there, working to improve his national image (which, if you recall, centered mainly around his "boyish charm" and not a particular suitability for national office). Ask him what he managed to accomplish for his constituency when he was an elected leader, and all you get is a blank stare.

Now, I don't agree with Hillary that "35 years" (must be new math) is required to be ready on "Day One" — after all, everyone knows that the first day of a new job is mostly filling out paperwork and getting an e-mail account…how does her experience prepare her for that? — instead, I agree that a person's judgment is far more crucial. And she married Bill — don't forget that.

Richardson has the resume, but I question his judgment when he was Energy Secretary, and besides, we're not going to elect a fat president…when the terrorists show up on our doorstep, we don't need a leader who's so whacked out on Twinkies and Dr. Pepper he can't think straight. Besides, you'd think that he could remember it's RUSSIA and not "the Sovet Union," and hasn't been for 17 years.

So, Obama is my guy for now. As for Hillary's comment last night that a belief doesn't consitute change, I can only say that she knows little about the history of change in America.

Edwards, you'd make a nice VP, but get over yourself. Oh and thanks for playing pit bull last night…saved Obama from having to lower himself to Hillary's level.

Mark   January 6th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

When will you guys see through his hyprocisy? Did anybody notice that before the campaign he took a job with a hedge fund? Is this fighting for the little people? He admits he made $500K for working 4 hours a week!

And on by the way, he had to sell his investments when it came out the fund was engaged in the same practices he had condemned (using off-shore companies to shelter taxes). Don't tell me he hadn't learned how they were making money when he invested $6 million in the fund.

Steve   January 6th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Sorry John Edwards, your alliance with Obama lost you my support. I agree with Hillary that all this talk of hope and change is wonderful, but action speaks to me. Look at her voting record, look at what she has been doing since before she met Bill.. She has "always" been working on changing the status quo.. Prior to her senate election she has been active (not a figurehead 1st lady…) Hillary all the way for me!!!

Jper   January 6th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

The defining moment in each democratic candidate's position

The most defining moment in the democratic race so far was the admission by Hillary Clinton in an early debate, to continue to embrace special interests and lobbyists in Washington.

A position that Edwards and Obama have pledged to fight.

This willingness to fight for lobbyists by Clinton is the most tell-tale fact that She is against real change. For some reason, She feels she needs to take a stand for people in these lobbyist roles, instead of recognizing that the average American citizen is who she should seek to serve, you know, the voters. This could be seen as a way to pander to these special interests in order to win her way to the white house with their help. This is a status quo government as usual position.

All the best to John and Barack. Make it happen!

Lisa   January 6th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Carrie - it is unfortunate that Richardson wasn't polished - seriously he doesn't know that the Soviet Union is no longer existing? And he portrays himself as the one with the foreign affairs expertise? He was a rambling fool. No chance for him to win any delegates.

Jper   January 6th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

John Edwards as candidate catalyst

Like it or not, John Edwards is serving as the benchmark in this democratic primary process.

Yes, Barack Obama is now the front runner following Iowa. And, this should not be viewed as a bad thing. The country is clearly after a candidate who can inspire CHANGE in our status quo government.

John's position of fighting Clinton is the best thing for keeping a dream of a new future for America alive.

Barack and John are both in the same boat here. Within the democratic party we are seeing the formation of two polarized positions. Change (Barack and John) that will bring results because of a willingness to take a long hard look in a mirror. The other position (Hillary Clinton), "just put me in the white house because of my "actual" experience in a governent of "yesterday". A position that dictates a full reckoning of the experience, that She has yet to substantiate.

Everyone knows that the best way to make change in this current government is to fight special interests and ensconced lobbyists. John Edwards needs to continue his alignment to Barack Obama and vise versa, and the two will need to do all they can to beat back the status quo governing ideals of Clinton.

This is critical because the rise of John McCain and his inevitable republican nomination will be the only real and formidible way for democrats to lose in 08.

If either John or Barack were to win the nomination, GREAT. But, nothing should be won at the expense of diminishing either one, as they, together are the democratic party's best chance to beat McCain and Clinton and find a new future of honesty, and honor for the American people.

Go John, Go Barack, working together for change is the way to a better future.

AJB   January 6th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

It was made perfectly clear in last night's debate that John Edwards is the best of the Democrats running. Edwards can and will literally defeat any Republican nominee. Obama can't do this. Neither can't Clinton. If we Democrats *actually* want to win this time around (i.e. win most of the South), Edwards is the only one that can get the victory.

Carrie   January 6th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Here is what I saw last night-two polished candidates who are great speakers and usually either dance around a question or have some sort of canned answer which I have heard before. I also heard two candidates who are not as polished, who offer real answers with real plans to back them. I like the latter, the ones who are not getting all the press; Edwards and Richardson. I hope these two stay in it!

Nick   January 6th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Bimmer calls Edwards slimey, a classic case of selective perception and tunnel vision. How about a dose of reality. In my 76 years Ive never seen a clearer choice on the democratic ticket. Edwards/Richardson could hit the ground running. The country would not miss Bush for a second. Obama is going to be a great one but he is not ready to be prez and I doubt he would accept vice. He would be a great sect of state.
Back to Bimmer, I hope he gets the chance to learn the difference bewteen slime and integrity. It is pretty obvious from here.

Vic Novosad, Sugar Land, TX   January 6th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

To Pam in Oregon — the truth is that it was 35 years ago when Hillary Rodham, later Clinton, graduated from Yale University, she took a job working with Richard Nixon's staff members who later contributed to his scandalous resignation in 1974. From there, she went to Arkansas and worked tirelessly to upgrade education and teachers in that state. From Arkansas as first lady, she went to Washington in the same capacity where, unfortunately, many dredge up her failure (the aborted health insurance program), never taking the time to learn all the positive things she did for the people of this country. In that regard, it's truly noticeable that the present candidates from both parties, have adopted that very program as a method to land them in the White House.

So the next time everyone calls Hillary Clinton a liar and an agent of sickness at the mention of her name, it would behoove all to get your facts straight. And for goodness sake, women, wake up and realize how her candidacy is affecting US positively, and support her if for no other reason.

justm2   January 6th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

why are my comments awaiting moderation?

State of Truth   January 6th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Barack Obama and Hilary Clinton use vagueness (what is 'change'?) a lot and avoid taking risk-taking stands.
But those stands would show us where they are, who they are, who they would be if president. The more we follow 'inspiration' or 'the first woman' or 'the first black' in place of cold, hard facts about the candidates' real opinions and stances, the more we leave ourselves open to being disappointed later and wishing we could go back and retract our vote.

'CHANGE' could actually be 'change for the worse'. They have got to be made to detail what they mean by, what they envision, when they say 'change'. [Do they think we're stupid?] I have had enough of hearing — just — the word 'change'. CHANGE is certainly a default position, isn't it? ANYBODY whe is president would Have To make many, many changes if they were the next president — if they didn't want to be impeached (too).

Linda   January 6th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Hillary is a Clinton through marriage, not like baby Bush is daddy Bush's blood. Let's judge Hillary on who she is, not on who she married. I am proud to say I support her.

Obama is only half African American. So would he be our first black president? I can not get past those ears that stick out the side of his head. AND the ignorant attitude he has towards his elders. He acts like the world owes him a favor.

Edwards, well this is what I have to say, "You can knock on a wall all day, and you are not going to change it into a door." Here is something that he doesn't tell you. When people win a malpractice lawsuit, the lawyers get half of money. He has gotten rich off of other peoples mishaps.

angelina_ MN   January 6th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

John and Obama either of you can bring change, so do not give up hopefully NH will follow the change that started in Iowa.

Hilary and Bill, believe they are in a third world country where they can rule on and on and on, and yet take advantage of their position and not allow for change..

Yes we are all sick of Hillary….and the Clinton Dynasty………… this is not China BC or Latin America or AFrica, where the family pass on the flag and the presidential house and political power, enough is enough

Path   January 6th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

In the first place, there is not one candidate that is really for the middle class. Our jobs are gone and our elected are still kissing up to big business. Illegals are running wild in this country and none of these candidates have stated what can be done for the unemployed or stopping the influx of illegals. I will not vote for Obama, who has no experience in any of these issues, but I don't like any of the candidates either. Hillary wants to make all illegals legal and etc etc.

Linda   January 6th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Edwards is our future. His issues are OUR ISSUES. The chance to start rebuilding our country and future.

It's all about dealing with our responsibility as Americans. What kind of change do you want. Anyone can use that word (and are they). But do you just want a new face on the same old government, or do you want to move us forward and secure our country.

John Edwards check list is MY LIST-for sure!

To do list

Global Warming
Iraq
Health Care
Jobs and Poverty

NOW THAT's MOVING AMERICA FORWARD!!!!

http://www.johnedwards.com/

Vic Novosad, Sugar Land, TX   January 6th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

To Bimmer: You are so right in your definition of "slimey" of John Edwards. First, he spent the last two years practically living in Iowa because he impressed them four years ago by coming there in second. That's why Kerry chose him as running mate. Now, he acts like he and Clinton were on a level playing field, never mentioning his 2-year bombardment there. Also, he acts like he slaughtered her with his measly single-digit lead over her. This man has NEVER been second in anything concerning politics. What does he do for a living? And how did he accumulate those 59 million dollars? This extraordinarily wealth came from none other than those bad ole' corporations he's gunning for now, without whom he'd still be middle class like most of us are.

Edwards also whines about Hillary "attacking" him and Obama "only when she's behind, never when she's ahead." Duh!!! Isn't that the Standard Operating Procedure political races. Besides, we all should recall when the debates started in 2007 that Edwards' wife Elizabeth called in to Chris Matthews' show also whining and criticizing Hillary and declaring that John" has done more for women than Hillary ever has. By the next debate, Edwards began going after her, using his wife's exact critique. And recall the speeches last Thursday after the Iowa caucus. At the end of his speech, his wife came running to him and whispered in his ear, to which he came back to the microphone and said, "She reminded me to say that I FINISHED SECOND!" Whoop-tee-doo.

Finally, over the last 36 hours, as a result of his laying into Hillary about her support from big corporations, lobbyists, and special interest groups — at least three major pundits confronted him with the fact that for the last five years, he has taken support from the trial lawyers association, the 6th largest in these very groups. I thought I'd never say this — but if anyone needs to be swiftboated, it's John Edwards — and by his own DEMOCRATIC PARTY. I hope this is the beginning of his swan song and good riddance! And to Elizabeth, I'm a woman and I can't recall one thing John Edwards has ever done for me — while Hillary Clinton counts her main support from older women who have learned to identify phonies such as Edwards.

Mark   January 6th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

John Edwards has the passion and the vitality to carry the fight to the Health Care Vampires and the Corporate Lobbyists who are stealing our democracy and draining our treasury. More importantly, his career has taught him EXACTLY how to take these guys on.

Support Edwards! Send the man a few dollars, people. Obama has plenty of money. Support Edwards so he can win this fight. He's forcing the other candidates to adopt new and stronger positions in defense of working folks and the beleaguered middle class.

John will make a great President in the mold of Teddy Roosevelt. We need a modern Trust Buster.

Go JOHN!

**

Path   January 6th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

I will not vote for Obama!!!!!!!

michael   January 6th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

The media made Hillary the front runner before anybody voted in the primary. Now the media is making this nomination process “Change versus Experience”. We buy into this media game without asking ourselves what really do these candidates stand for, what have they accomplished, and where do they want to see us go.

In my rational way of looking at things and perhaps in my reality world, this contest is about change and the agents of change.

On the one hand, we have change, idealistic and theoretical, driven by empty words (false hope) and strong emotions but only temporary because it cannot stand the test of time. A change that will require four years on the job training to clean the mess of the current administration. A change that will take a second term in office before the agents can even begin implementing their ideas which has been lost in this discussion perhaps because they really don’t have one.

On the other hand, we have change that can be put into effect right away. A change based on logical and rational thoughts and grounded on experience. A change that does not require on the job training. A change that can stand the test of time. A change you can feel, hear, see, smell, taste, and touch.

President Bush was an outsider, an agent of change. He was elected 8 years ago with the help of the Supreme Court and re-elected 4 years ago. Exit polls showed that he was well liked, most people consider him to be their next door neighbor, he was the type they could hang out with, etc. With only the concept of change and no experience on foreign affairs amongst others, he surrounded himself with the best experienced advisers money can buy. What do we have today in return? A broken system: FBI/CIA abuses, Iraq war, Effects of Hurricane Katrina, Economic woes, Recession, etc.

I know Obama and Edwards are not President Bush. I am sure they have different set of ideas and values. But I think it will be wrong to put the future of our country in the hands of someone without the first hand experience involved in the concept of change especially in today’s global dynamics of powers.

AH   January 6th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

As a woman, I did not like the way Hillary was trying to use the gender card to get sympathy from women. She did that last night in NH debate. if she feels that a female president is the only change she can bring in in white house, I would rather not like a woman president this time. there are millions of other important changes needed in WH other then trying to elect a woman president. We should choose a president based on quality, not anything else. My sysmpathy to you is now gone forever, Hillary….

Annie   January 6th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

While Obama is inspirational to me I do not feel he has any viable "plans" if he were to actually win. Hillary is unbelievably intelligent and capable and would make an incredible president. When Edwards ran with Kerry I remember just feeling in my guts that Kerry would lose and wishing that it were Edwards running for President instead. As an Independent, I have closely observed ALL the candidates, including the Republicans, and so far they haven't produced one candidate I even feel I could even remotely commit to….it just seems as if it is more of the same from that party. I feel as if Obama has the heart, Hillary has the intelligence, but Edwards seems as if he has both in my opinion. Hang in there John!

Vermont Girl   January 6th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Hillary is one of the main reasons that George W. was elected in the first place. The Clintons are old news and glutinous. Why aren't they helping the Democratic party by sharing all the "experience" that she boasts about? Bravo for Obama and Edwards! It's not all about you, Hil. We're sick of it.

anngonzalez   January 6th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

It's funny an angry rich white southern male lawyer/politician calling the first woman to lead in national polls for the office of the president of these united states — status quo! You've got to be kidding me.

Hillary the first woman, Richardson the first Mexican American, Obama the first African American — these people represent change. Edwards, no matter how many people he vows to keep out of the whitehouse, that doesn't make him a change agent.

Kyle G. Columbia SC   January 6th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

SUE please send me some of the good "stuff" you're smoking if what you said about Hillary you can stand on 100%!! America don't allow Hillary to fool you. She'll be a better Republican than Democrat I personally think. Barack Obama has clearly touched an American nerve in a way that seems bound to propel him to nomination by his party. There appears to be no anger in this man, motivated as he is by a powerful desire to help his fellow Americans to overcome the harm done to the society during the past seven years, and to restore the sort of opportunity that ordinary Americans have always believed they OUGHT to have, for themselves and their progeny. Hillary Clinton is, first of all, no Bill Clinton — and she strikes me as quite an angry person who carries an enemies list arraign in her head, most of it contained in her frontal lobe. I'm for Barack Obama.

D'Angelo in ATL   January 6th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

John Edward is the only one who truly sees how horrible this country is. everyone I know is losing they house. Losing they scools, losing they health. If we can elect Edwards he will punish all those who is hurting every body.

Anthony   January 6th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

In Response to this below:

"John Edwards did take on big corporations and this happens to have made him a multi-millionaire. It's always easy to pull a wool over our eyes when someone says "I am fighting for you". This only reminds me of the many advertisements from attorneys boasting how much they have won from big companies for their victims. However, they never mention this is not pro bono and that all the compensation will go to the victim should the court rule in favor of the plaintiff. Yes, he takes on the big corporations but as a result, he got the lion share of the victim's money awarded by the court. It's not difficult to proclaim you fight for the poor and the middle-class but how he made millions seems to suggest otherwise. I don't even want to mention the $400 haircut which no middle-class can afford. Yes, I am fighting for you but don't forget my cut once the fighting is done."

Yes, Edwards made a great deal of money by suing corporations responsible for injuries largely to the working class. But please remember, plaintiff's attorneys work on a contingency fee regulated by each state's bar association. Typically, most states limit the fee by attorneys to a third of the recovery. This means that in most situations, it's likely (though the numbers may vary slightly), that Edwards fee was only 33% of the total amount recovered, with his clients recovering 66%. This certainly can't be classified as the "lion's share" of recovery for the attorney.

Furthermore, in such a major case, all the risk is covered by the attorney. A case where millions are in dispute takes years to litigate. This included extreme man-hours, court costs, expert fees, etc. It's easily possible to spend in excess of $100,000 to litigate such a case. And this is all done with no guarantee of victory. If Edwards lost a case, he simply lost all the output at no expense t his client.

In short, plaintiff's attorneys do often make a great deal of money, but contrary to modern political rhetoric, the "lion's share" of each recovery goes to the client with the attorney taking all the risk of loss. Edwards may not be an angel, but there are worse ways to spend a life.

Jacque Bauer   January 6th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Wake up John! Obama has stolen your thunder, and you are now standing naked. Almost all that do not want Hillary have now chosen the REAL man of change, not the man of Universal Hair Care…

Continuing to run on ego alone will get you nothing but the disrespect you deserve.

matchu   January 6th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Obama is not fit to bring about "real change" to America. Unless he can convince me that he can…im throwing support to Edwards because I have more confidence in him than Obama and Hillbot 8.0.

Josh   January 6th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Most of the comments are so jaded and confusing; considering what the polls are saying. Obama is electable; he won, in pretty much all-white Iowa and in most polls is leading in NH and SC and leading his Rep. counterparts.

Edwards preaches his populist message very well, but I do not want America to become a full socialist state! You have to negotiate and have some civility when dealing with your adverseries if you want to achieve anything.

I agree with Obama in the sense that he knows that it is going to be a tough and long fight, but yelling and stumping like a 2-year old will achieve nothing. People will just turn off the TV and Congress with essentially ignore him. Obama has the power of the people behind him-and that is the most powerful weapon to have.

JM

Obama 08

Linda Peacock   January 6th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Yes!

I´m voting for JRE in the TX primary and was going to do that no matter what but this is great news! We need John Edwards.

Thank you John and Elizabeth Edwards for your commitment to our Nation.

N. Shope   January 6th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

I also believe that John Edwards exhibits the most concern for the middle class and I, too, will vote for him! However, what concerns me most are the comments that if Hillary wins the Democrat nomination, independents wil go with the Republican party candidate! The Republican party has ALWAYS been known as the party looking out for ONLY the rich. They will never care what happens to the middle class; look what a mess our country is in now!! Please reconsider.

Julie, Atlanta, GA   January 6th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

John and Elizabeth are going to keep fighting for us…so I'm going to keep fighting for them. PLAIN AND SIMPLE. He is THE best candidate for all Americans…Please, please, please America WAKE UP and realize this!!!

b moss, SC   January 6th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Looking at the Dems, I would choose Edwards as the best candidate, and the one with the best chance of winning in the general election. With that said, I am a Rep.
My early prediction: President & Vice interchangable

Obama, Edwards 08
Huckabee, McCain 08

http://www.countdown21.com

jhon smith   January 6th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

EDWARDS IS A PHONY GUY. HE IS SO FULL OF HIMSELF. OBAMA CAN HAVE AN EXCUSE OF BEING NEW IN THE US SANATE BUT EDWARDS IS A FAILURE.HE FAILED WIN SOUTH CAROLINA 4 YEARS AGO AND NOTHING HAS CHANGED. HE WILL LOOSE AGAIN. HILLARY SHOULD TAKING ON HIM AND HUSSEIN BARACK OBAMA HARDER.

John Marsh   January 6th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

I fully support Barack Obama I have all my fingers and toes crossed that he wins not only the nomination but the election in 08. I look back at the UK of 1939 and am reminded that come the nations disater WW2 comes the Man Churchill to see the nation through. I am becoming more confident that he can win the Youth of America have been energised by his campaign, his post Iowa victory speach I am sure will go down in history as did JFK's speach as one of the defining moments of this election.

Mary   January 6th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I am sick of looking at this guy. He sounds exactly like what he is "a trial lawyer". Why does CNN have him on so frequently?? I hit the mute.

James, Houston,TX.   January 6th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

John Edwards continues his Senseless attack on Hillary Clinton as well as Corporate America. Does this Turkety of an Attorney, whose whole concept is on "Precedence" in lieu of Growth Is So Blinded? Corporate America is and continues to be Growth! What his Grandmother, Father, and other Ancestors did toward Survival was their only "Cause and Effect " within the created inhabitance!
Fight, fight, is all you hear fron Edwards: What happened to the " Thank You for the Abundance, Love,Joy, Wealth, Prosperity and Happiness"? Look around, Smell the Roses; And I may ask " Whats Eating within You", Still, a Cancerous Growth?

Leo   January 6th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Edwards is a FRAUD. When asked what his biggest accomplishment was as a senator in the presidential debate yesterday, he talked about the patient's bill of rights. That bill was not passed into law and was not initiated by him. What kind of accomplishment is that? Now all he wants is to go after Hillary and kiss Obama's behind with the hope of being a vice-presidential candidate? What a loser!

John, Columbia, SC   January 6th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

John Edwards has done more damage to health care in North Carolina than any other person in US history. No one seems to know he is the reason a medical school completely shut down. Those people in the community suffered without health care for years, but at least he got his millions. I don't understand why people have no problem with him making multi-multi millions, but if your doctor makes $150,000 (above average salary for an MD) then the doctor is greedy. He did take on the "big corporations", but just did it because they are the ones he could sue for the most money, not out of any moral obligation. He is a sleazy lawyer and will always be a sleazy lawyer. You want third rate health care, more lawsuits, more red tape, more expensive care, longer waits, and more money for trial lawyers, vote Edwards 2008!!

WalterPragmatist   January 6th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

The democrats are their own worst enemies. John Edwards could actually win a national election. I don't know what country democrats think they are living in but last time I checked we were living in Bush-age America. Dems more concerned about "making a statement" than winning the presidency. It's amazing to me that we're even talking about Barack Husein Obama or Hilary Rodham Clinton. Neither one is a viable candidate because they can't win red states. In fact if either one is foolishly nominated for president they'll likely lose blue states as well. People need to get real about this election. Can you even imagine the attack ads against Obama or Hilary? It would be too easy. Republicans are rooting for Obama and Hilary to win because they know that they'd fare about as well as Michael Dukakis and Walter Mondale did in a national presidential race. John Edwards is what is called a "viable, electable candidate". Barack Husein Obama and Hilary Rodham Clinton most definitely are not. If democrats throw away their nomination because they want to "make a statement", we'll have to endure yet another 4 years of right wing republican rule. NASCAR dads and value voters haven't suddenly transformed into open-minded, avant-garde, Bohemian beatniks.

Ashley, Detroit   January 6th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Then, he's gotta, gotta, pull off wins in Nevada and SC.

I like John, but w/o those two wins, he can't compete in Ca/NY/Super Tuesday with the 10000000000's (enough zeros?) of The Clinton Machine or Barack Obama

Bob   January 6th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Edwards was the clear winner of last night's debate! There, I said it. I say this for a number of reasons- number one being he had a different strategy than the rest of the candidates. Instead of attacking all of his opponents, as we have seen most all of our dem. runners do over the last eight years, he stuck with issues and avoided chopping at the other dems. His placing at the debate table was also key. He was the most visible, detailed candidate. When the cameras shot across the "board" he was the " "heightened" (if you will) candidate. I am an Obama supporter. I still plan on voting for him, but Edwards stepped up his game last night. Whoever wins, Obama or Hillary will be our V.P.

Frank Mclean Va   January 6th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Typo alert: "at 20 percent among like Democratic voters there."

Kathy Callan, Palo Cedro, CA   January 6th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Edwards represents the only hope for change…The other candidates talk about it, but only Edwards has stood up to the special interests–he is the only one who has never taken a dime from lobbyists…

He will fight for us "little guys" in the White House.

Blue   January 6th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Hey Bimmer, nice personal attacks. If John Edwards is slimy, what does that make Obama? He tripped all over himself trying to regroup from being shown to be a hypocrite and then conceded that he may not have experience or a record, but, LOL, people like to hear good talk from politicians?

OH COME ON!

Yeah, good speeches is really going to accomplish alot from an inexperienced , Corporatists politician……ask Duby!

Let's hear it for the Cheer Leaders….and if they choose him, america will get what they deserve!

G Davis   January 6th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

You guys in the chairs are all getting it all wrong! listen to “your guys” in the field. they are out there “feeling the heat” and seeing the “light”. Obama is not about talk, rehetoric, and campaign slogans. He simply inspires the people who come out to see him. The more people “see” him the more they “feel” they want to be apart of the biggest most exciting politcal story in America’s recent history. He has engergized the young people like no one except perhaps JFK. When he speaks he doesn’t just talk about ideas–he gives the vision about how those ideas can be substantiated. This is the sign of a True Leader. Barack Obama is a man for this time in history. A new man for the 21st century.

Trang, Fremont CA   January 6th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Yes, Edwards wants to increase the heat. Bush wants to scare people. Now, Edwards wants people to get angry.

We don't need more heat. We need more light. Let's learn to solve our problem calmy.

smokey   January 6th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

This is at wo against1 battle and Edwards looks like a bully. I still think when Feb 5 comes along the voters will realize who can win the White House and that for the Dems is only Hilary. Obama has just too little experience and Edwards just no credibility. So…really the choice is HC or likley McCain. Mcain would likley bea good 1 term President given his age .

Can anyone possible imagine Lefty Edwards really reaching compromises with the Right and Obama has no chance.

Kay, Stanford CA   January 6th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Go'head Edwards- kick Hilary out of the race!

How can she call herself a pioneer/candidate for change and yet proudly admit to being apart of the Washington problem for the last 30+ years?! If she were a man, such claims would have NO merit. I say lets make her a bastion of gender-equitable treatment, and see her game for what it is- nonsense and passive slandering. REAL women pioneers in history have used their identity to empower, not manipulate the masses.

Yes, I want a woman president. But not one who has ridden into the race/national prominence on the coat tails of her husband. Sorry Hil.

With that said, lets hope the future of this great country all come out in the numbers and with the passion they have in Iowa (never mind who they support)- WE represent the real change in American politics!

Shannon   January 6th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

I do believe that you get what you see with John Edwards. He says whats on his mind and attacks from the heart. That might be the reason that John Kerry was not elected president. I felt that he lost the election for Kerry when he confronted Chenney about his daughters homosexuality. It's beginning to look like Obama is the only Democratic candidate that has the demeanor to be president. Hilary didn't look presidential in yesterday's NH debate. She lost my vote when she played the gender card by saying, "as the first female president she would represent change." Had Barack said "as the first black president he would represent change", I would have felt that he may not be interested in representing all Americans. Let's hope true change prevails, and that partisan politics are over.

S.K.M. Boston Mass   January 6th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Hillary Clinton's experience is greatly overexaggerated. For twelve of those thirty-five years(that's one third), she was the First Lady of Arkansas. That means she did next to nothing, and when she did do something, it's all informal authority. Another eight years she spent as First Lady to the U.S. She had no security clearance, she did nothing about Clinton's inaction during Rwanda, she wasn't even talking to him when we tried firing missles in Afghanistan to hit Bin Laden..
Eight + Twelve = Twenty Years. Twenty of those Thirty-Five years that she cites was spent as the wife of someone. Give me a break. The other fifteen years? Take out seven of those for her time as a Senator, and that's the only time she has in an elected office. The other eight years of her "thirty five years" of experience? She was on the board of directors of WAL-Mart.

Obama was a community organizer in Chicago on the south side. The most thankless job but vital to an area like that. He went to Harvard and became head of the prestigious Law Review. He left Harvard and went back to Chicago to be a Civil Rights' lawyer. He then became a state senator and his time there was INCREDIBLE. Do some of your own research and stop simply reading HRC's opposition research(also known as "dirt"). Then he became a U.S. Senator, which he has been for two years now. During this time he HAS fought against many provisions of the Patriot Act with Russ Feingold, and his votes for Iraq war funding are always tied into withdrawal. HRC's experience may be overexaggerated, but her ability to smear is even more over-exaggerated.

marion Glennon   January 6th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I think John Edwards is the most concerned about us, the little people, so there fore i am going to vote for him! A lot of the previous opinions of him are a bit jaded. Sounds like they don't know what they are talking about. Obama knows very little about how to govern and certainly hasn't been vetted and probably couldn't win an election for president. And without the help of Oprah he probably wouldn't even be in the running.

Valjeanne   January 6th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Wow from all these comments you would think Edwards very successful tenure as an attorney should have been done for free?
Do you work for free?
He is wealthy because he WON and in turn his clients WON and are now better off than they were before he took up their cause.
He has families he has fought for on the campaign trail out advocating for him. Why? because they put their trust in him and he delivered. Obama and Clinton can point to all ther corporate supporters ,Lifetime politcians et al. I for one will take the person being supported by the real people of America the little guy, The union members, the patients, the people on the poverty poor these are the voices I want to hear, not some DC fat cats who throw their support behind Hillary or Barak , it just tells me they endorse them because they are ONE of them the DC insiders.
More of the same…..

LDP   January 6th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This is BIG!

Family of Nataline Sarkisyan to Join Edwards Today on Campaign Trail in New Hampshire. And it's personal to them, too.

LDP   January 6th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Espcecially if he's winning delegates, why should he?

…Go John Edwards. Real change.

William   January 6th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

American democrats are making a huge mistake if they pick Clinton or Obama. Doesn't anyone remember 2004?

Edwards is the man for the job. He will look out for individuals instead of corporations. Do you really think Hillary will? What did Bill do?

I support John Edwards.

Timothy, Greensboro, NC   January 6th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Why all the haters for John? He'd make a super President!
Surely a better one than the ones all you loonies have elected for the last 8 years!
Go John Edwards!
Obama puts me to sleep every time he opens his mouth and Hillary is so very bitter.
Go John Edwards!!
WILL THE DEMOCRATS FINALLY NOMINATE A WINNER LIKE JOHN…….OR YET ANOTHER LOSER FOR THE REPUBLICANS TO WIN OVER.
Think about it. Vote for John!
***If you all think the country is going to vote for Obama or Hillary over a Republican, you are nuts! Gore…Kerry……please nominate a winner like John!

Helen, Boston, MA   January 6th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Should Edwards drop out, his supporters may just line up behind Obama as the agent of "change".. What would that do to the polls in the Democrat Party…Obama 65%, Hillary 30%, the rest 5%?

Augie Scott, Somers Point, NJ   January 6th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

This is in response to Jaime. Just because you are diabetic, doesn't mean you are fat and lazy. Your comments are moronic. Obviously at 37 years old, you were not well-schooled. Look at your comments, they are riddled with grammatical errors. I think the problem in this country is you, uneducated people blaming everybody else for their problems. Read a book once in awhile, get the facts, and try to improve your sentences. An educated person is a wiser voter, and quite frankly, you have failed to demonstrate that by your comments!

Jose   January 6th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Edwards is the real deal. Too many people are so blind they can't see it. There is no need for him to even think about getting out unless of course you're a Clinton or Obama supporter! But come on, let the process go on at least! I don't want another coronation of a weak candidate that can't win in the fall.

Valjeanne   January 6th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Bimmer, You could not be more wrong about Edwards.
He IS the champion the average American has been looking for to fight these deeply entrenched Corporate interests that have infiltrated our democracy and are now calling the shots. How has that been working for ya???
Edwards has led the debate on ALL the issues this campaign from the very beginning. There has been a virtual media blackout on him to marginalize him. Why? because the corporate owned MSMedia has a very vested interest in the outcome of this election. CNN owned by Time Warner MSNBC NBC= General Electric. It goes on and on! Edwards has stayed viable even though he has been outspent 4/1 by 2 Media darlings who have had 90% more media coverage than Edwards. He is still viable because WHEN the Amercian people are allowed to finally hear his message, they know it's the truth. It is his passion for this cause that the media frames as 'anger' that comes across, to "we the people"
John Edwards truly is "The Peoples President'

The Saint   January 6th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Would he quit if he doesn't win? Did you ask Clinton the same question?

Shame on you CNN. Your bias continues to show.

RM   January 6th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

I am distressed at the lack of fair and equal coverage given to candidates. The media is trying to steer this election by focusing on only two Democrats, Obama & Clinton. Both of them seem to me to be spouting rhetoric while Richardson & Edwards are offering plans and action. Yet, CNN and other members of the so-called free press give them little coverage. I'm beginning to suspect that big business & special interests are influencing the media to steer the public away from two men who are offering a chance for real change and reform. I challenge CNN to step up & report on ALL the candidates equally!

Victoria   January 6th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Edwards has devoted his life to helping people who are ignored or hurt by the established system of greed and corruption. I don't see any evidence of him being a slimy character in any way. If you want a prime example of someone who did anything to get elected, look at George Bush. What his attack machine did to John McCain in South Carolina and John Kerry is evidence of how low he would go to win. Edwards has run a positive race so far.

matt   January 6th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Change, Change, Change! Edwards and Obama sure talk a good game when it comes to change, but as far as they have demonstrated thus far they lack the knowledge, experience or polices to successfully implement the change this country needs. It is easy to be the “change” candidate, but it is another thing entirely to be the candidate who brings about change. For months now I have heard both Obama and Edwards utter the hollow promise of change rather than clear policy regarding the grave issues that this country faces. I find it ironic that Mitt “ I Will Say Anything To Get Your Vote” Romney all of a sudden is the “change” candidate of the Republican Party. This begs me to ask the question, which is the Mitt Romney of the Democratic Party. Is it Edwards or Obama? I used to think that Edwards was the king of the phonies, with his well-rehearsed “champion of the little guy” platform. There is something about 29,000 sqft. Mansions, $400 haircuts, and $500,000 a year “consulting” fees that make me think that Edwards really does not care about the little guy. That said, Obama used to be a close second but has surpassed Edwards recently as the phoniest candidate, when he started talking like and sounding like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in his speeches. As a person who has regarded Dr. King as a hero since the 6th grade, I find it disgusting that Obama would sink to such low just to get votes. Furthermore if he wants to play the race card then play it, don’t sneak it in the back door. At first I thought he was naive enough to believe the hollow words coming out of his mouth, but it is clear that he is just a phony, calculating and manipulative politician like so many before him who used the word “change” to cover up inadequacy. Eventually Edwards and Obama will have to talk about the issues, and it is then that we will see that the only difference between them and the other Democratic candidates is their lack of experience and genuine phoniness. Let’s hope for, the worlds sake, it is before the general election.

Todd in PA   January 6th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Couldn't agree more about how slimy Edwards is. The only good thing about this announcement is that I'll get a chance to vote against him. Pennsylvania's primaries are so late they hardly ever matter, but this will give me some satisfaction at least…

aj huntington ny   January 6th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

that 's the first time in history he's pictured with his sleeves rolled up, as if he's thinking of actually working at something physical

Steven in Charleston, SC   January 6th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Bravo to Edwards! This is a man who truly understands the plight of the working man and of the middle class, and who doesn't just talk about change, but one who actually has a set of plans to make it happen.

Don't get me wrong — I have a lot of respect for both Senators Clinton and Obama, and I will get behind either of them if they are the nominee, but I truly feel Edwards is the best person for what our country needs at this time, and I believe that the longer he stays in the race, the greater the liklihood that Clinton and Obama will tear each other apart, and the greater the liklihood that people will come to realize what a good and decent man John Edwards truly is.

Kate   January 6th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

This comment isn't for posting but for clarification… wasn't Edwards the 2004 VP candidate?

vince