3 things. 1. Why does a president have to be likable? Why not just a good leader. 2. Why is it all I hear from Obama is the word change without any details? 3. Also why is it Obama see a victim that government can only help everywhere he goes?

CHANGE CHANGE CHANGE too much of it and you will be left with only change in your pocket

who cares about Oprah? I guess millions of stupid fat people do. People can't you think for yourselves??? you need Oprah to tell you how to live your life?
please wake up, exercise, lose some weight and look at how the rest of the civilized world is leaving their lives. America is heading in the wrong direction at the speed of life. people live their lives stuck to their television sets and allow the television and media to dictate their lives.
Oprah is an idiot who forgot how hard it was for a woman to get to the power. I have no respect for her anylonger since she turned her back on Hillary. she should have sided with the women. but she is such a typical stupid woman, she sides with the men, typical women. instead of us smart women to unite together and be strong and unite against the hurt we got from men, we turn against each other and kiss us the guys who hurt us. or maybe Oprah couldn't stand the fact that there might be a woman out there more powerful than she is. I have no respect for Oprah what's so ever. she is an big time idiot.
Obama stole all Hillary ideas and now he is turning into a major jerk. let's not forget that he put her down on national television many times. I don't like him and I don’t trust him. Hillary will make one good president, but I guess this country is way behind the rest of the world to allow a woman to lead. This country is pretty sexist so I am not surprised you will vote for a black guy who is inexperienced rather than vote for a perfectly good experienced candidate who is a woman. Well, I think you guys are making a big mistake for voting for Obama. On the day when you will have to vote for your president, the majority of people will vote for the white republican guy, and hence one more time there will be 8 years of long recession and republican, conservative and narrow-minded era.
wake up and smell the coffee and vote for the right candidate who can bring the country back to the glory days of Clinton when the economy was booming and things were good.
and one more thing, so what Bill cheated on Hilary, how many men out there cheat on their wives on daily basis? or how many physically abuse their wives? please wake up to reality. what's worse cheating on your wife or abusing her physically or emotionally??? please there is at least one case of abuse in every single relationship in this country. but how do you go on with your relationships?? you forgive and learn and go on, because you need each other for different reasons, money, children etc. so think straight before you vote for the wrong candidate just because stupid Oprah said so. Oprah please.. I have no respect for her what's so ever and I am a smart engineer and very educated and well traveled woman. but I know how this world turns and I hate to see smart women turning against themselves just because of jealousy. shame on Oprah. have no respect for her.

gjon cima, Hitlery is the biggest coward and chicken I have ever seen or heard of, she is only riding thr coat tails of her adulertous husbnad…Really, tell me what she has done??? I'll tell you NOTHING! He even done less than that. Obuma has bigger crowds, more people want him for the lib nomination and you are just another femanist nazi who hate men. Hitlery would cry like she did today if ever confronted especially by that little weasel Ahmadinejad or Hugosthere Chavez the little fat guy in Venuzuela.

Obuma will continue tio kick herfat butt all over again like in IA.

Go Mitt!

Is the american populace showing extraoardinary courage, to vote for a radical voice for change when we are dealing with the unpredictability of the war against terrorism. Is this the right time to turn our own politics upside down, obama style, when we didn't know how a surge would work a few months ago, and we don't know what will be the success of a withdrawal, not to mention teetering Pakistan.

It shows the extraordinary courage of the american populace. we are not afraid to to take a risk.

whos' that sap on mbc? we are not fighting a vietnam war. when did ho chi minh bomb new york?

I hope some of you have been watching CNN tonight. They did a clip on Obama's grandmother living in Kenya. She is 83 years old living in poverty, still working the fields and missing some teeth. this is the testiment to the man. Can you honestly believe he will help the poor in this country, when he doesn't even help lift his own grandmother out of poverty? I am sure he lives in a Mansion, has a nicer lifestyle than most Americans will ever know, and allows his own grandmother to live in poverty. This is the man. For shame Obama.

Obama's bus is like the great river Nile that once it sets out on a journey nothing stops it , not even the mighty Sahara Desert until it delivers its load in the Mediterranean sea. Obama's bus will not stop until it reaches the White house.

I'd like to see the everchanging Obama fighting with Ahmadinejad with his speeches…the job of a president is to make decisions and not speeches.

Only Hillary can make Ahmadinejad chicken out…
She means what she says

Being of rock star quality will not make a good president. Hillary has experience to bring about change.

I don't see any huge crowd in this photograph. Hillary's was bigger than that but the media is hyping Obama and hurting Hillary

all I can say is you people sound like fools unbelievable. God help us all!!!!!! Obama is not the way good luck america. Were headed into a recession, and your betting your life on a person who don't know nothing.

I'm an independent and Obama is the person who inspired me. I believe he is the agent of change. I believe he will be the next president. America is ready for a change. W e are tired of the same old things.

I'm leaning the Obama way, too. Many people (including me) think he's a very good communicator and speaker, and he has some experience, but what about the man? Do we really know? I don't. He does many things right, but like anyone, he's done things wrong, too. What did he learn? What does he think he needs to learn?

I think we as voters need to step back and really understand what makes him tick, how he makes decisions, what happens when you put a lot of pressure on him, etc., etc. When we have more facts, then we can all make an informed decision.

There's a saying: "Leaders choose the right things. Managers do things right." I believe that Hillary could be a very effective administrator (managing), but her style and personality are more confrontational rather consensus-building (leading).

The last thing the United States needs right now is a more divisive person. There was a time when you as a lawmaker could have honest disagreements with opponents, but once it was all done, you would support the majority and yes, sit down for dinner or drinks and still be friends, if you will. Now people are bitter enemies because of positions and partisanship.

That time is long past, and by being more and more polarized, our nation is actually becoming less of a nation. The right person to bring things together is Obama — based on his experience, intelligence, and personality, he will pick the right people to work with him. Many highly experienced people have picked cronies or the wrong ones.

Dream ticket: Obama as President, Edwards as VP.

Eric — Just as Hillary and Bill feel the earth sliding out from under their feet and they are suddenly, stunningly, becoming images of an old guard representative of a dying partisan era, it is not merely Obama's star power we are witnessing– it is the political zeitgeist that has shifted. As Bob Dylan would say to Hillary, Bill and Howard Dean — "get out of the way if you can't lend a hand, your old ways are rapidly fading". Stay tuned — history is unfolding. Embrace it !

I've been looking forward to an Obama candidacy since he hit the national spotlight. At that time he had an agenda that I could get behind and support. As time went on Obama as moved his agenda much more to the right of what I would like to see. So right now I'm liking Edwards a whole lot and want to see what the Greens produce again this election. But if Obama wins the nomination I would still vote for him provided there's no other candidate out that I feel would be better for the job (e.g. Nader). Now if Clinton wins the nomination, there is no way the Dems will get my vote. We already had 8 years of a Clinton in the Whitehouse and what do we have to show for it? NAFTA? We're still paying for that "awesome" economy the Clintons gave use in the 90's.

The Obama train is not going to stop anytime soon. He is like a rock star here, and now in other states. No one wants an old tired woman (clinton) or a bunch of old tired Same old Same old Republicans in the Oval Office. Let's get some youth and excitement back in the Whitehouse. Haven't had that since Kennedy!

This is so wonderful to see the enormous crowds and people braving the weather to show their support for this special man. I love it that so many people are hopeful and are seeing a better way. Please Hillary…don't try to take this away from us. We need hope and with that we will create change.
Obama 08

This is the final scenario: GIULIANI-McCAIN versus OBAMA-EDWARDS!

As a Black Republican in New York, I have to tell you, Obama is the life of the campaign! Regardless of whether we are talking Republican or Democratic camps!

When you have Romney saying he can 'post up' (a basketball term) against Obama, is it safe to conclude that Obama is the measuring stick /rod by which all the other candidates measure themselves?

Sorry Eric,

I've been an independent since day one of my voting eligibility. I voted for McCain in the primaries (anyone but Bush!), and pretty much had not choice but to vote Democratic in the election (anyone but Bush!).

True, I don't know all the specifics of Obama's policies or of his voting history outside of what's been selected by this or that media outlet.

But I'll tell you. When Obama came to the platform after the Iowa Caucus, and stood there with his wife, and two young waving kids - suddenly I got flashed back to 1960 and John Kennedy.

I fell to my cynical knees, said hallelujah, and began to Believe.

Yeah, it's irrational. Yeah, it's purely emotional. But my generation needs a Kennedy too, and this guy may be it. He may end up a total disaster - but I'm tired of political parties telling me who to vote for.

Obama's come out of nowhere, Huckabee's come out of nowhere, and McCain's been out of nowhere for years now. I'm happy that the system is being subverted on both sides. I will not toe to the party line.

Finally, when Obama will have his first national debate with McCain or Romney, and media will shred him on his in-experience, then dems will realise that they lost a big opportunity to elect a dem in the white house.

My whole family is voting for Hillary we have seen her do amazing things for this country. Hillary 08!

to Change: I don't know why you so crazy. You will pay for your navie and stupid decision.

Is anybody concerned that the only thing this guy has ever been in charge of is community softball tournament? I hear him when he says "look what experience got us with Bush." However, that doesn't say to me "VOTE FOR A GUY WITH NO EXPERIENCE". It means lets find a guy with a solid resume and background and record to do well. We have a couple guys like that, one on each side.

Rudy changed NYC from some cesspool into one of the greatest cities on earth. Bill Richardson has a executive experience as gov. of NM, domestic policy experience as sec. of energy and foreign policy experience as amb. to the UN.

We don't have to take a chance on this election to get a good leader, we just need to make good decisions.

Hillary Clinton has the intelligence, strategies, experience and passion to change this great country to a great DIRECTION!!! She has the power and will achieve what she said! Not only an excellent speaker who promises anything only for cheating voters to support for him. Unfortunately, he never considered whether he can keep his promise or how to realize what’s he said. If a person says he can do anything, we should doubt his honesty.
Change is good, but can change to a better or worse direction! We should reminder 8 years ago, Bush also said changes. Let’s support Hillary, because we love this country!

It seems to me that there is a genuine risk that the Obama fans, many of whom are a bit overly obsessive/emotional about their candidate, may be inspired to sit out the vote if Hillary pulls out the nomination. The perceived groundswell of support for a Dem candidate could easily be dissipated if the folks who are swooning over Obama's "charisma" believe (perhaps naively) that they have been robbed by the Hillary machine once the 98% of the country that isn't in Iowa or New Hampshire has their say.

These folks, particularly the never-voted-before college students who constitute a large part of Obama's yelling machine, may just be disheartened enough to lose sight of the importance of voting for Democratic values, regardless of which candidate is the nominee. There is still a very good chance that Hillary will pull out the nomination on her strength in the major states (NY, CA, FL, MI, etc.). I hope those who were only 10 years old when Bush stole the White House aren't setting themselves up for a fall by believing that Obama has some massive support based on results in 2 very small markets, one of which is next door to Illinois. Finishing with two other candidates within a few points of you does not a mandate make. So please don't forget to vote if your first choice doesn't get the nod. We still must meet the larger goal of turning our company back toward the progress that all of the Dem candidates agree we need to make to build a better society.

p.s.: I am not making any generalization about Obama supporters as a whole. I just remember my own naive attitudes when I was in college that may have led me to believe I was doing the right thing by not voting for a candidate that wasn't my first choice. And I was a fairly engaged person. A presidential term seemed like a really long time when it constituted a fifth of my age. Couple that lack of perspective with Obama's dreamy talk of concilliation and everybody getting along, and you have the potential for a lot of naive folks giving up on the process because the person that gave the best speeches didn't win. It's great that Obama has inspired young people to care about politics, but only to the extent that they are truly engaging in the debate and making informed decisions. The last thing we all need is for another president to be elected based on silly people perceiving him/her to be an interesting party guest, rather than an intelligent evaluation of his policy proposals AND potential to get them implemented. As we know, that attitude leads to thousands of dead Americans in Iraq and New Orleans.

I don't believe any amount of money is going to stop the Obama momentum. He has the right message. He wants dialog between all interests so everyone gets something out of it. Yes there will be compromises and here much as I agree with Edwards about big business, he's not going to win cause he is too agressive, mad and isolates voters. We need the this is America for all approach to ever end the polarized and corporate special interests in Washington. I do believe Obama would do well to pick Edwards as his running mate as he will need someone willing to take this on. Obama will have to choose many experts in their fields to help which should be a monumental change from politicians picking their friends to run the government. I absolutely agree with the statement that we need to take a leap of faith here that Obama can deliver as I don't see anyone else out there with this potential to deliver what the American people are starved for. The right and ability to pursue their dreams. I have been around long enough to see the 60s as someone else mentioned and I also have not seen anything like this since Bobby Kennedy whom did not not get his chance to prove his metal. Give this guy a chance, he is the right man at the right moment in time.

Go Obama!! Go!! On Feb 5th Hilary will be crying all over Bill's lap. Obama to smart; to powerful; and to new. The new MLK. Jr.

At this point of presidential election Obama is better choice than Hillary and all people around me feel same way.

I believe Jake is confusing Obama with Keith Ellison, our country's first Muslim congressman, on the swearing-in issue: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/95073/bible_or_quran_which_book_will_swear.html

Obama is Christian. I am sure he will use a bible for his swearing-in ceremony next January: http://www.barackobama.com/2006/06/28/call_to_renewal_keynote_address.php

I highly recommend both of Obama's books. The first, Dreams from My Father, is more personal and really gives insight to his life. The second is more political and gives insight to his experience in Washington and hopes for a better future for our country.

Let's face it—I'm 60 and pretty much a life-long Republican but—I will vote for Obama. Why? He has the chance of a lifetime to help rebuild and reposition the US for the years ahead. The same old tired politics will not work anymore. Washington is a mess and we need someone who can make something happen for now and our children's future,

Edwards is a fine man, and I agree with much of what he says. But he's not firing people up with his message, just as he failed to fire people up for Kerry. I think right now he's being a bit of a Johnny-One-Note, harping over and over on the issue of getting the corporate lobbyists out of the system… as if that is the one magic bullet that will make everything right again. Yes, it's a big part of the problem. But by itself it's not going to fix things for the average American. We need a progressive tax code and fiscal policy that helps to redress the imbalance of wealth and opportunity in this country, or we're going to lose the American Dream once and for all. Obama speaks to the American Dream. He doesn't do talking points, he does inspiration. It's not "empty rhetoric" when you can make an audience of skeptical, cynical, fractious Dems laugh and weep and roar at the same time. Remember that it's not up to the president to do everything. It's up to the president to engineer an environment in America where we as citizens can do what needs to be done. Barack inspires people to get out and do things. That's what makes him special.

Has it occurred to anyone that maybe Obama is the real deal?

Manny and Mr. K,

I couldn't agree with you more.

Obama will be good for Canada economy ,our dollard will continu to rise I dont think he got the stuff to pull you out of your recession he wont know where to start after the mess Bush made .But on the other hand it depend on his choice for vice presidency if it is like your current president maybe he will be the one running the show. Anyway American are strange people you vote for Bush for a another term and your paying for it .Now you gonna vote for Obama and you will still pay for it and we (Canadian) are going to cash so thank you.

I agree John Edwards should be drawing the crowds… but his campaign hasn't been funded the way that Obama's has.

If Edward's campaign had more money, we'd be seeing a very different picture, indeed.

Diane, Whitestone, New York

"Delegates PROMISED"? LOL

Promise from those regular politicians? LOL

Girl, like money, THE ONLY delegates that matter are the ones ALREADY IN THE IOWA BANK!

If you think those politicians will be backing a Hiloser, then you don't know something fundamental about Americans — LOVE TO BE WITH A WINNER! LOL

And so far, Hilary is being brushed back and, IS LOSING BIG TIME!

Let me start by thanking Hillary Clinton for her service to our country. Her tenacity and drive are inspiring and a role model for everyone. But Obama is something truly special. It is often said that in the history of great civilizations, when times are at their worst (like now) and it looks like the true leadership well has gone dry, that history provides the cure. I think that cure for America is Barack Obama! He is someone can begin to reverse the trend of pessimissm and despair that has hung over this country for a long time. I just hope America has the common sense to follow his vision and spirit. That is my fervent prayer!

To p.h. Riverton, Wy - how many of us are there out there that that have been waiting since 1968 to see that same fire in our youth and tear up just from the memory

"man holding an Edwards sign was arrested for disorderly conduct"

LOL

SEEMS LIKE ANGRY MAN, EDWARDS, IS GETTING HIS "FIGHTING" MESSAGE ACROSS. LOL

But shouldn't that 'fighting' Edward supporter be going after the greedy corporate executives? LOL

Obama is going to beat Hillary because of his positive message. Hillary has resorted to classifying Obama and Edwards as talkers. To me if you say someone is telling you they are going to do something they are not actually going to do is just like calling them a liar.

I am a 65 year old white woman in Wyoming. I am a lifelong yellow dog Democrat. I remember when they killed Jack ,Bobby and Martin. I have waited my whole adult life for someone to come again like them. Obama embodies the best of all of they stood for.
I worked tirelessly during the civil rights days of the 60's. Now I am watching all these closet bigoted Dems get hysterical because what they said they believed in is now in front of them. Face it the Dems talk a good game and the Clintons spouted it but when push comes to shove they all run away. Obama is the next Kenedy,King and Lincoln. Get behind him or get out of the way.

I first met Barack Obama in September in Iowa - he talked to a crowd of about 200 in town. I remember that I was disappointed that he didn't "pack the house". He wasn't that good of a speaker at the time. I saw him a second time in a larger venue and he reached the crowd. The third time I saw him he was reaching each one of us and his speech after his win in Iowa went to a new level. If you haven't heard him yet in person - go, because he will talk to you in a different way.

I looked at the odds this morning .. Obama is on top at 1-1, Hillary at 3-2, Romney/Huck is somewhere at 8-1.. So it is to say that the Democrat got the best thing going for them this election. This war will have to come to an end soon. No point to stay the course to go broke in the process.

Eric January 7, 2008 1:46 pm ET

When is this star power going to end for Obama?

Eric January 7, 2008 1:58 pm ET

It is ridiculous. I dont think Obama is the right man for the job. Democrats are going to be upset when the Republicans continue their tenure in the White House.

Eric,

It's like Jack Nicholson said in his latest movie…"nobody cares what you think"

I am so dismayed!!

Tiny–secular boondocks like Iowa and New Hampshire appear to be deciding the candidates for the Democratic Party.

My God wake up people!! Do you how many other Democratic Americans there are out there who want "real" change…and a President who is up to the almost herculean task at hand–particularly with so much attention on foreign policy!! To change the paradigm in Washington and restore hope–will take as much "stuck in the mud" attitude and perserverance as we've seen from GWB–just in a more positive direction. Obama, nor Clinton are up to the challenge.

John Edwards should be drawing the crowds. He's got my vote.

I bet i can sell you white liberals anything…He is just words thats all just words get real….

America deserves the best , Obama is tatented and gifted, a best selling author a law proffessor, and a community mobilisers all these fets are acheiveable through hard work , talent and vision. To be president or a leader you need all these especially vision, Obama had vision and realised that people were yarning for change, All the rest of the candidates were banking on experience, Clinton included now they all talk of change. Look here my friends, clinton says she has worked for changed for 35 years that means since obama is 46 years she started working for change when obama was 11 years. The issue is the Clintons are high class manupulater as are the Bushes they think the presidency is there birth right that why she gets personal when she looses to Obama.

American has been powered by young and talented visionaries, (all these googles, youtubes have short changed dinasaurs who's time are past) and Obama eptitomises american. I think Americans would be better having a president who stimulates them intellectually, what i mean is that ever since i started listening to Obama's speeches i always discover a word, a phrase i had never heard before

It has been such a long time (probably since JFK) that we, the American people have truly been inspired and proud to be an American. We need that back and Barack Obama gives us that hope. And people are color blind now and are welcoming TRUE CHANGE, even if it is coming from an African American.

Our nation need to have that hope and optimism we once had long ago! GO BARACK! He definitely will have my vote come November.

To all who still support Hillary, please take a close look at this man. Try to put aside racism and sexism and seriously consider this candidate. He is for real. An important part of politics is the skill of convincing people to join you and your ideas. I'll leave you with a simple question. Which candidate has done the best job so far of using his or her skill to convince the American people to vote for them? Which candidate would do the best job of convincing a foreign leader to do something our way? Mr. Obama is very special and has talent that does not come along very often … GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I think that Obama gets confused with Keith Ellison D-Minnestoa, who is a Muslim, took his oath while HOLDING a Koran. The actual oath is done en masse and some members choose to hold sacred text while taking the oath. I checked this out on Snopes and they are very accurate.
Part of the confusion is the BS emails that were going around trying to say that Obama was a Muslim, which is just not true.

BARAK HUSSEIN OBAMA is a phony. Crowds are following him like
a rock star. Now that's ridiculous! He is a savvy politician. He has
only three years experience on the national level. He knows "next
to nothing" on world affairs and foreign policy. He is charismatic
and charming, but let's hope that it takes more than that to be
the leader of our great country.
Unfortunately, he will not be a "change" for the better, he will
be a "change" for the worst.
PLEASE VOTE FOR THE BEST QUALIFIED CANDIDATE.

Hillary has a high fatigue factor. Face it she has a bit of a grating voice. She sounds preachy at times. And this latest thing with her getting emotional after being asked about who does her hair. This act ain't gonna work for the Dems if she gets the nomination. This isn't some comment from a Right winger bashing Hillary. This is just a fact.

I think Americans (like myself) are just turned off in general. Obama comes off as sincere if only because he plays the outsider well. He speaks calmly and intellectually. But at times lectures too much. He is clearly the stronger candidate for the Dems.

Eric, an early talking point out of the Limbaugh/O'Reilly camp was that Obama had been educated as Muslim when he lived in Indonesia as a child. Well of course, this turned out to be utterly untrue, as he was educated in an American academy in Jakarta (having lived there for a while myself, I know exactly where it is!). Barack believes in God and accepts Jesus Christ as his savior. He just doesn't feel the need to constantly throw it in people's faces, as if invoking the name of Jesus somehow makes any misjudgment or atrocity acceptable. Who have been the biggest gum-flappers when it comes to their pious faith, even suggesting that they get their marching orders directly from the Almighty? Uhh, yeah…. that would be Bush and his cronies, the most pro-death administration since Nixon. So don't assume you know what's in the man's heart, and don't believe everything you hear or read (come to think of it, don't believe ANYTHING you hear or read from a republican).

Diane, Whitestone, New York January 7, 2008 2:19 pm ET
…it is SO sad to see how obvious it is that you don't know what you're talking about!! The Democratic Wyoming Causes don't happen until March 8. Romney is the only candidate as of now to win in Wyoming. 270 Electoral votes is what is needed in the General Election…NOT the primaries. 2025 is the magic number of delegates needed by the candidates at the Democratic convention prior to election day and what the current candidates are fighting for. Hillary is in the lead at present on that count due to 154 "superdelegates" already promised to her before the caucuses began..PLEASE educate yourself about the system before posting comments like yours!

Experience just doesn't seem to matter. The republicans who had TOTAL control of all phases of government for 6 years could not solve any problems, indeed made most of them much worse - energy, deficit, competence, foreign policy, environment, education, health care costs, illegal immigration -. Why not try a person who can maybe bring enough people to the center to solve some of these problems. I'll give Obama a chance.

eric that's a total lie. the man is not a muslim how many times do you guys wants him to tell you that?

The last time America united was 9/11 and that was out of fear, anger and revenge. The War in Iraq is the result. Barack is uniting and exciting this Nation in a way I have not seen in my lifetime. The change he talks about has already begun. He is already uniting people of all races and parties. It begun in Iowa and hopefully it will continue in New Hamphire and across this nation.

I met the man (Obama) in June of last year. I shook his hand and looked him in the eye. He is the real deal. I have since, and will continue, to work for him and give money to him. I think that the closest we have had to man like Obama in politics was Bobby Kennedy.

Edwards made the point quite succinctly in the debate on saturday (as has Paul Krugman): You can't "nice" away the special interests in Washington. You can't simply sit at the "big table" and serve them hot cocoa and chocolate chip cookies and ask them nicely to stop exploiting the poor and the political system for their own gain. Even if they said they would and Mr. Obama believed them, they'd be laughing all the way to the bank. That is the approach that Obama has advocated. (In fact, it's the approach that he used when watering down healthcare legislation in Illinois at the behest of the insurance industry lobby there.)

That said, it's my firm hope that he is simply using this rhetoric as an electoral-politics tactic, and not intending to really try to accomplish everything that must be done in the next four years through concilliation. That will lead to two years of nothing being done, then a stinging defeat in midterm elections. It's all good and well to try to inspire the general public with rhetoric in an election. It's another thing entirely to think the congress and the corporate interests in Washington will be moved by it. In other words, as an Edwards supporter, I hope Obama's being a bit disingenuous about the differences between himself and Edwards.

Is that true about Barrack refusing to put his hand on the bible. someone said he put it on the koran

Obama is drawing big crowds because he gives people hope for the future. Obama energizes people and is getting people engaged in the political process that we are proud to call democracy. I feel sorry for those of you who are too cynical to see what this is all about. This is about the possibilities for the future. This is excitement because for the first time in a generation we can see a better future for our children - I am 45 years old and our generation has not had that. Don't be afraid of something new - we have lived in fear with our current Administration too long. Open the mind and take a chance on something real and very, very good for our country and us as individuals.

It seems that the time has come for a man to be judged by his character and not the color of his skin. If only Martin Luther King was alive today to see his dream come true. Obama is the candidate for change. Now everyone else wants to jump on the "band wagon". He sweep all the demographic categories including whites, women and undecideds. I believe he is going to sweep N.H, South Carolina and the southern states going into "Fat Tuesday". This country is tired of the war, billions being spent, lives lost and no end in site. Just think of the many trillions of dollars our grandchildren will have to pay down. Those blacks that thought Obama was "two faced" and did not have a chance are going to rise up and vote with more strenght than ever before because a state like Iowa ( 98% white) supports him.

Hail to the New Chief !

Obama all the way, cant you guys just see that this guy has what it takes to run the white house? he is just too brilliant and that's what america need at this point. i trust him on fixing the white house and he definately will do better than anybody else. GO BARACK OBAMA!

Thank you very much, Kraig….you said it all!

Chewy,

it is just that John Edwards really inspires me. I want him to be involved with the change for this country. John and Barrack would make a good team.

I've never heard anything about Obama refusing to put his hand on a bible. Sounds like a Rush Limbaugh talking point. Anybody have a credibly citation with a link to support this claim?

As for that assinine lapel pin…. when did that become a uniform requirement for politicians?!? Sheesh! Bush wears a lapel pin. Cheney wears a lapel pin. Rumsfeld and Gonzales and Ashcroft and Rove wear lapel pins. I guess Obama is supposed to feel compelled to emulate fine patriotic Americans like those? Give me a break!

Response to Eric from a registered Republican. The republican committee is concerned about Obama's "star" status. If Obama wins the nomination there isn't a Republican in the stable that will be able to beat him in the general election. They (Rep Comm) would be much happier if Sen. Clinton wins the nomination…because ANY Republican contender will be able to defeat her.

I have to say that if nothing else, George Bush and the current congress have finally forced american citizens to begin to take part in the political process which is an underutilized right of every citizen. I was once one of those who believed that Obama had a "snowballs change in h—" to succeed and win the nomination. I always liked what he had to say but I did not feel people would vote for him. But today I am so proud to be an American. Not only are more people participating in the process, but people are embracing the message of a candidate not his color or gender.

I still believe Hillary has the most experience of all the democrats. I believed that Edwards would win despite everything because he was white, male & attractive (and too many people hated Hillary - should would bring out even more republics who want "anyone but Hillary").

But I am going to Vote for Obama because I believe he will actually make a difference and he will inspire us all to better things. And I am beginning to believe he might have a chance to win this thing.

We are seeing true democracy at work folks and I am proud of all the participants no matter which candidate they are backing..

I am with Jake on this …..

"January 7, 2008 2:22 pm ET

If Obama gets the nod- his VP is Edwards. And if Edwards gets the nod - his VP Obama."

Eric, I am glad you are coming around by say this …

"January 7, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I think Obama is a candidate of hope, but could he have John Edwards as his running mate? I would like that."

In an unrealated, 7 people had gathered at a Starbucks for Fred Thompson. They all stood around and watched half an episode of Law & Order from an iPod and then went their seperate ways.

I hope he does win the nomination because he will have no shot against Rudy Giuliani, who will be the eventual nominee for the Republicans and our next President.

Stop believing the hype!

Uh… No… I am not Voting for him! He isn't the right person for the job..

As always the american people are showing that they can not have good judgement.As always they are very exited in the beginnig,without thinking wisely.DO YOU REMEMBER WHO GOT THE POPULAR VOTE IN 2004 ELECTION? DO YOU REMEMBER THAT MOST OF THE AMERICAN WANTED TO GO TO WAR IN IRAQ( and now you are blaming who voted for the resolution?If they did not , at that time you would have called them different kind of names-you name it)?AND DO YOU WONDER WHY A LOT OF THINGS ARE GOING WRONG IN US? Your answer - GO TO THE FIRST SENTENCE.

Get ready for an Obama presidency. I can see two terms for the man.

We are going to witness something quite interesting and extraordinary. People thought JFK was inspiring, and Obama will have the same impact, is having the same inpact.

Hopefully he'll get some things done. He is going to have tremendous challenges.

Eric January 7, 2008 1:58 pm ET

It is ridiculous. I dont think Obama is the right man for the job. Democrats are going to be upset when the Republicans continue their tenure in the White House.

DOn't hold your breath waiting for a GOP victory, Eric. The Republicans will lose big this November.

this is our new age PIED PIPER MOMENT!
GOD help us from the republicans in the fall

go obama…………………..99% percent of the people oof the united states are looking for change…..we have had the same old rhetoric….for how many years????the young people of today are tired of separatism….the young people of today…are not trying to separate races………people are people……there is more intermarriage….than ever before………………….these old heads need to wake up……….all of the separatism is leaving…………we are one nation…….as it has been said before……………"we might have come to america in different ships…..but we are all in the same boat……………..go obama………….and go edwards………..both of you have my support….we need jobs back in america….un employment is terrible in this country…..people are losing home ….left and right…………..

Obama refused to put his hand on the Bible when he was being sworn in. Obama also refused to wear an American flag pin on his lapel. What does this tell you about Mr. Obama?

Of course everyone wants to see there new POTUS!!!!!!!!!

Obama all the way!!!!

Thanks to Obama, for the first time in 7 years, I feel hopeful about our country.
It is a wonderful feeling. The idea that it may actually be possible to elect someone
whose message is unity, that we might actually be able to pass meaningful health
care reform, that Congress might no longer be beholden to the whims of well-funded
lobbyists and CEOs of major corporations. I like the idea of Biden as a VP - undercuts the "no foreign policy experience" argument. And, what a wonderful message it would send to the international community if we elected Obama - I can't think of a better way to improve our standing in the world. Go Barack!

Hillary sold out to special interest groups. She is also way too partisan to handle the
biggest issue facing our country - ending the poisonous partison bickering. How can we possibly expect to face the difficult issues facing our country if we can't even agree
about what the issues are?

Wow, I wish I was there - how exciting it is to see Americans involved in the process and particulalry interested in the process. I have had a homemade Obama sticker on my car ever since I read his first book - months and months before he declared his candidacy. Throw out the old guard and bring in the new - we have to move forward with fresh ideas and faces and shake off the old chains of entrenched Washington - that is what Obama brings to the party (no pun intended.) I always thought an Obama/Edwards ticket would be good, especially after seeing the debates Saturday night, but I find Dan's suggestion of Richardson as a VP intriguing.

He is the new, black JFK. We will have a rainbow Camelot. He is unstoppable. He is also extremely bright and will surround himself with excellent people. Republicans: prepare to vacate the White House!

I AM TIRED OF BUSH-CLINTON ROTATION IN THE WHITE HOUSE. M GOING FOR OBAMA FOR A CHANGE

People seem not to understand. so many people have visions and some dont and vision is known to spread quickly and the bible says that without vision or wisdom my people perish and that is what we,ve been seeing ourselves for the past 15 years and now we have seen a truely inspirational, consistent and non corrupt guy coming up from the manger(significant of where Christ was born). Oprah said that but people did not really understand it in the full concept, we know that the wise men were been led by stars that showed them the direction and we see people trooping out in thousands and we think its natural…comeon guys wake up from your sleep and stop acting like Herod that wanted to boil the stew out of the little guy.

I once heard the other rival implicating herself saying we go from bush cheney bush cheney (BCBC)…this as edward says is the meaning of status quo, we dont go from BC and then to BC rather we go from BCDE… dont be confused guys, u better wake up, this opportunity may never come again.

i can remember when i was a kid and watched the story of Jesus. It was such an emotional movie that i cried cos people knew He went about doing good and bringing change but they still crucified him only after the garment was turned and everywhere turned into darkness for three days did they recognize that He was the messiah. We still havent learnt the lesson.

Im almost certain that people coming out in thousands as was shown in IOWA and NH are people that doesnt want that scenario to happen again, but never the less forget that the devil roars like a lion seeking for whom to devor but i can predict that he's time is over.

I can see people saying that clinton has already been promised some votes(why not ask yourself this question, who are these people that have promised to vote for her?) I feel like crying seeing the situation the country is now..real estate market crises, high rise of unemployemnt etc and these same people have been in power all in the name of experience and all these are happening and we still want to go to that same direction.

I know it will never happen because the americans will never be deceived again.

Go OBAMA we are praying for you against the evil ones.

People who claim that they don't know Obama's policy positions or that he just spouts empty rhetoric are simply lazy. Go to http://www.barackobama.com and download the PDF of his 'Blueprint For Change.' Every one of his policy positions is laid out there in black and white, plain as day. The reason he is surpassing Edwards and Clinton is not because either of them are bad people or bad politicians or bad candidates. Let's face it, any one of these three is going to drive a fairly similar political agenda in their administration. Obama gets people's passions stirred up, and the others don't. I don't think it's much more complicated than that. He makes people believe in not only him, but in their own power to take the nation back into the hands of the people. Sure, it's a rhetorical style, and it's a personality thing. But he gets people excited. Even my aged, life-long Republican parents have said they would be proud to vote for him. Who didn't choke up a little when he and his family took the victory stage in Iowa and think, "Wow, this could actually be the next First Family." Hard to kill a buzz like that for anyone over 40. It's a sea change.

Dr Obama, who is going to cure 300 racist, anti-semitic, slavery filled, years you have lost your chance to give a one time, full scale fight against these evils, and i will complain to our Creator about your failure (not that it matters he knows and you will be held accountable).

OBAMA is nothing more than an empty suit with crazy liberal policy

I don't think republicans will continue in the White House. The front runners all remind me of a horse and pony show. If they do win I hope it would be Ron Paul. I am typically a Democrat and do support Obama. I am however considering voting for Ron Paul in the Primary. It probably won't matter anyway, I am in WI, and we vote pretty late in the game.

Its only the dems voting and please believe me the repubs are waiting he cannot win a general election, k…..These people in IA and NH are voting against Hillary because she is not likeable thats how libs vote its a popularity contest..

I canvassed early on for Barack in NH and got the chance to met him and be in the first row at one of his speeches. I wasn't alive when Robert Kennedy and JFK where making their runs, but I imagine people had the same feelings then. I also imagine people thought they were too young (JFK was 42 when he was elected) or inexperienced. I'm glad Americans back then weren't as near-sighted. I ask you this, what has the wealth of experience from Dick Cheney, Colin Powell and John Ashcroft given us? How has their rich background helped us? It's a joke. I heard someone in NH say that they feel like they have to take the chance and vote for Obama… that things are SO bad, that's it's time to go out on a limb with a candidate that may not be a 30 year insider. I agree with that person. I'm glad I was able to give my time and money to his campaign… and to be able to say to my kids down the road, what supporters of JFK said to their kids. I was involved in the shaping of a new, more positive, less cynical America. GO BARACK!!!

This is not just rhetoric coming from Obama it is the obvious feelings of many people. The "Star Quality" that we are witnessing is the result of him speaking the truth. He didn't jump on the slogan campaign like EVERY OTHER candidate. How come all the other candidates didn't see that "Change" is what we need and want? You know why, because they are too entrenched in their Washington ways to see what WE want.

No he hasn't proven anything yet (for that matter none of the candidates have) but he is at least saying what Most of the American people are feeling. That is why he is going so strong. I rather go with Obama and Hope for Change then to go with Hillary and get 4 more years of this mess.

John Edwards is the man with the plans for healthcare.
http://www.johnedwards.com/issues/health-care/

But I fear that people are so far gone on the "Obama Buzz" that perhaps there's no educating them to other candidates.

Please tell me that I'm wrong… because all I hear about is that Obama is the next coming of Christ.

Just sat on the stage behind Obama at his Lebanon rally. He handles the crowd impressively, but it's his message that REALLY wins. He hears both sides of arguments but makes his own decisions. He believes in talking to people, not firing at them. He really offers the possibility of a new way of working in Washington!

I'd love to back Hilary, as I think it's tougher as a woman to make it in politics in this country then it is for any man… and she is great… but HE could win.

The comments about Obama not having experience are rediculous. One man a Presidency does not make. Why is Bush such a failure? He brought in old guard Republicans like Cheney and Rumsfeld then surrounded himself with his friends as if they were most qualified, solely for blind obediance. Hillary your looking at a real socialistic program and the people she surrounds herself with will be the do gooders who know better than you what you need to have a better life and will madate it like the health insurance. Photo ops have shown us previous President Clintons choices like Madeline Albright.hanging around as well. Obama if anything is an intellectual and will no doubt surround hinself with similar like minded indivduls and personally I'd take that group of problem solvers over the social agenda of Hillarys anyday. It was after intellectuals that founded this country.

He will be an Obama-nation if he loses.

Just curious….. What is the screening process here? Why are people writing that their postings are getting dropped?

With Obama I see myself finally affording health care. I believe him.

I think Obama is a candidate of hope, but could he have John Edwards as his running mate? I would like that.

Diane,

You are talking about delegates for the DNC, not electoral votes. HRC has many more delegates pledged to her right now, but that doesn't mean much. Many are "superdelegates", politically connected people who have pledged support. But these people can change support when the convention comes around.

Eric,
What message do you want besides change, honesty, and good foreign policy; what Obama preaches. If you want things not to change, then you should go with Hilary.

Obama will have to select a running mate with serious foreign policy bona fides. I'm thinking Biden might be the right guy.

Exactly right Phil, empty rhetoric, except Edwards. He actually has meaning behind his words.

Thank God I came to America, the land of the free and the home of the brave, who will ever think that a minority will be talked about in this manner, when you have a good message people will listen regardless of your color, go OBAMA !!! make your ancestors proud.

The criticism of Obama not having enough experience doesn't fly for this reason. The president is not supposed to be an expert in financial marketsor economy, military strategy, health, education, budgets, etc. It his the president's responsibility to select qualified individuals to oversee the topics I listed earlier.

George W Bush did a miserable job in getting the right people in the right jobs. Obama needs to be able to find the right people and his advisors can help provide him with the information to make good, sound decisions.

But he and John Edwards are the only candidates who are willing to make their selections based on unbiased political reasoning. No one else on either side of the aisle seems able or wiling to do so.

Obama has got what it takes to change america…a new JFK stimulus…hold on as its going to be a wonderful country beginning in 09!

What gives CNN? I just read the article about Hillary getting emotional and the one about Obama saying Clinton's message is depressing, and now they are both gone. Can it be that you are being told what to publish by the Clinton campaign?

"Phil, Ca January 7, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Hmmm. . . a charismatic speaker who has perfected his tactics to draw enormous crowds into a frenzy of excitement and support, not by ideas, but by a theatrical performance honed to perfection and a dramatic delivery of calculated, soaring, empty, rhetoric. It has worked before and may again."

Phil, Ca

His "empty, rhetoric" has as much weight as all of the other candidates's hollow rhetoric.

Great to see people participating in their government. As much as we may feel the government has failed us in recent years, we have failed our government by failing to participate. I am planning on attending an Obama NH results party tomorrow, my first political event. Obama will continue to flourish because he inspires.

Eric,

I would guess Richardson as Obama's running mate. he has significant foreign policy experience, comes from a western state, and as a Hispanic, can lend strength on the Republican issue of immigration.

I think Eric is being racist here and it does not shock me. Please give us reasons why you think Obama is not a good and stop the hate. If you want experience over authenticity as some of you say, then we do not need to go to the polls becos electing Clinton means mantaining the status quo. A woman who is proud of continiously taking money from the lobbyist. By the way do you know who is a lobbyist? Thank you

Meanwhile:

DUBLIN,January 7, 2008 — Ireland's largest bookmaker, Paddy Power, are today claiming that the Democratic Nomination race is well and truly over and are already paying out on Barack Obama to be the successful Democratic nominee.

Paddy Power, said: "From a betting point of view we reckon that it's game over for Hillary. With each passing day Obama is looking more like a certainty to get the Democratic vote and as far as we're concerned he's already past the post. So well done to all who backed him, your winnings await!"

Barack Obama has also overtaken Hillary Clinton for the first time in the betting to become the next US President. Paddy Power now make him the odds on favourite at 10/11 to become the first African-American President over Hillary Clinton who has now drifted to an incredible 5/2.

If Obama gets the nod- his VP is Edwards. And if Edwards gets the nod - his VP Obama.

Go Mitt!

We now know Iowa and Wyoming belongs to Obama, so say he goes on to win New Hampshire, and South Carolina, Hillary could very well still win the nomination. Don’t forget a nominee needs 270 of the 530 electoral votes to be elected president. And with 166 electoral votes she is promised, she needs 104 more to go before the presidency is hers, whereas, Obama needs 204 more electoral votes to cinch the presidency.

What message is Obama giving besides "change". There is no substance behind his change. He poaches John Edwards policies a lot.

kaycee is right on the mark. I've voted Republican in every presidential election since Reagan but I must admit that I am very impressed with Obama's message and I do believe that he can make a difference because he doesn't have the baggage his closest rival has. Also, I believe that for a Democrat, if the US came under attack again, he would respond. His closest rival wouldn't do anything if the White House was hit and she was in it at the time.

Eric,

Hold on to your seat buddy. You are seeing what the political process should be like during elections. When was the last time people were moved by someone like this? People come out to participate when they can connect with the candidate. Barack has done this. And now everyone is running scare because "CHANGE" is possible and everyone can see it.

I am willing to give him a chance.

I still like John Edwards, Obama is a second choice for me. We'll see. Who will be his VP?

I hear Abe Lincoln's applause rippling through the crowd of Obama supporters.

Why are you covering the campaign? Didn't you know….Obama already won.

I don't think his appeal will wane. The situation right now is that a Democrat is going to win the White House back this year. People are completely fed up with the GOP agenda of taxing the working class, lavishing taxpayer money on corporate millionaires, ignoring critical domestic issues like healthcare costs and social security, and justifying it all with this idiotic drumbeat of fear and phony patriotism. The Democratic candidate will win. And we have three good candidates at the top, any one of which would make a good president. So we sort of have the luxury to choose the one we really like rather than wringing our hands about "electability" and talking ourselves into someone we don't really like (cf. Kerry). And Obama is who people like. He comes across as honest and caring, and his speeches are inspirational in the way of old-school orators. He's not just pushing hot buttons or spouting buzzwords. He's making people feel proud to be Americans again.

Charisma…..you either have it…or you don't. Obama has LOADS of it!! LOVE THE GUY!!

Forget it Eric, he's going to be around for awhile. This thing is not over, but knowing people all over NH, I've heard the turnout tomorrow will be huge and pundits I trust say 80% will of the Independents will go to Obama. You may not think he's the right man, but Hillary's not the right woman either! The Granite Staters will decide and, based upon long experience, I trust him.

I think John Edwards is better than him. I am not saying he is bad, but he doesnt seem authentic to me.

Hmmm. . . a charismatic speaker who has perfected his tactics to draw enormous crowds into a frenzy of excitement and support, not by ideas, but by a theatrical performance honed to perfection and a dramatic delivery of calculated, soaring, empty, rhetoric. It has worked before and may again.

Vote for the candidate and their qualities not the party

It's the power of Oprah.

Sad, very sad. I just hope people get their heads together and start making informed decisions instead of relying on mere buzz. At this rate, they'd probably start drinking purple kool-aid, as well.

Read about REAL change, not fluff:
http://www.johnedwards.com/issues/

While watching the debates this weekend it struck me – when Senator Clinton makes an assertive statement it’s not as well accepted as similar statements made by the male candidates. Sounds like the glass ceiling to me. I’m not sure what everyone sees in Obama. His rhetoric is somewhat like George W’s. Real change does not take place overnight. I feel Senator Clinton’s professional and personal experiences put her ahead of the other candidates. Gov. Richardson asked a question that resounds with me. “Why is change always equated with youth?” We “Boomers” have gone through a lot of change and we seem to flourish because of it. My vote is for Senator Clinton

I dont think it is a question of only star power. Message is a huge part of Obama's likability. He is going to win the primary and become the president because he is the most competent and authentic. He has the right judgement skills not selfish and corrupt washington knowledge.

It is ridiculous. I dont think Obama is the right man for the job. Democrats are going to be upset when the Republicans continue their tenure in the White House.

It will never end Eric. Never.

Hopefully in about 5 years.

Eric -

In 2013, shortly after opening the Barack Obama Presidential Library.

When is this star power going to end for Obama?