January 7, 2008
Posted: 02:35 PM ET

ALT TEXT

Obama is taking issue with comments Clinton made at a recent Democratic debate. (Photo Credit: AP)

(CNN) — With only a day until the New Hampshire Democratic Primary, Barack Obama says the manner in which rival Hillary Clinton's campaign is being run is getting 'depressing."

In an interview that aired on ABC Monday morning, Obama said Clinton does not make him angry, but the Illinois senator took issue with how her campaign is being run.

"I find the manner in which they’ve been running their campaign sort of depressing lately," he said.

Obama specifically took issue with a comment Clinton made at a debate Saturday, when she suggested Obama and John Edwards were raising "false hopes."

"We don't need to be raising the false hopes of our country about what can be delivered," she said. "The best way to know what change I will produce is to look at the changes that I've already made."

Obama has derided Clinton on the campaign trail for the statement, and in the ABC interview, suggested it runs against the American "tradition."

"Sen. Clinton saying, 'don’t feed the American people false hopes. Get a reality check.' You know? I mean, you can picture JFK saying, 'We can’t go to the moon. It’s a false hope. Let’s get a reality check.' It’s not, sort of, I think what our tradition has been," he said.

Meanwhile, Clinton maintains she has a record of change, and said repeatedly over the weekend that she is a "doer" compared to Obama and Edwards who are "talkers."

The back and forth comes as several recent polls indicate Obama's win in the Iowa caucuses last Thursday has given him a bounce in the Granite State. A new CNN/WMUR poll released Sunday night shows Obama 10 points ahead of Clinton, 39 percent to 29 percent.

Related video: Clinton: 'I am a change agent'

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


andy   January 31st, 2008 7:32 pm ET

I wounder why Sen Obama is on the defensive ? maybe he feels he is slipping?

josh   January 14th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

It's an outrage that the media refuses & the last debate refused to demand all candidates get on the record about “illegal” immigration! Towns & cities across America are being left to fend for themselves. An exact, detailed recorded stance Must be on the record!

All this crap about gender & racial Nonsense Must stop, OR only allow white males to be candidates. White males are the "only species" the media has given "open season" hunting rights against! Women & blacks are given approval for unlimited attacks about ANYTHING against them. BUT, one attack, even justified, against a black or woman, Bam! The race or gender card is played! Obama belongs to a church believing in “The Black Value System” How is that belief “NOT RACIST”? Make the campaigns fair to ALL or our voting system will be destroyed!

Equality? The Law states No Discrimination based on race, gender or nationality. Enforce the law Equally or Not At All. Sharpton, Jackson or woman’s rights groups cannot be allowed to yell “racism” or “gender attack” whenever a tough, valid criticism or question about a past candidate’s actions or voting record is asked. If not, it is time for white candidates to start screaming “Foul Too”, after all, that’s true equality “For All”!

Rmeoses   January 9th, 2008 10:43 pm ET

Look people its like this Hillary has won nh I dont see Obama smilling now .
Dont see him calling Hillerys campain depressing now.Athe speach that he gave on health care did you really here what he said?He said health care for the children and the adults would have to get it on their own .wow talking about the two headed snake there you go he has no platform to compain on.he uses double standard words.and John Edwards he nothing more than an Obma back licker trying to gaing up on Hillary.wow dont look like its working to well.The more they talk their fals words the more Hillary will win a good and fair campain .and not all democrats wants Obama and Back Licker John Edwards.
Wake up america listen to what is truly being said at the Obama campain words and false hopes.The media has done nothing but slam Hillary and They should appoligise with the trash they have printed .Wake up american do be persaded by media hipe or by false words.

Chris   January 8th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Clearly some Democrats are fearful that an 'inexperienced' candidate may endanger their chances in a general election, particularly in an election where, after 8 years of Bush, there needs to be a Democrat in the White House.

That's understandable, but lets have a quick look at experience.

What experience do people want? My guess would be experience in elected public office. That's where decisions are made, that's were you represent an electorate; but then again you might say (with perfectly sound argument) that 'time served' doesn't give a detailed enough picture, although many articles seem to be centred on the numbers game.

JFK is a good example to pick (after all some have made comparisons between him and Obama recently)
Congressman: 6 years
US Senator: 7 years
That's 13 years of experience in Elected Public Office before he was elected President.

By contrast lets look at Obama;
Illinois State Senator: 7 years
US Senator: 3 years
That's 10 years in Elected Public Office.

And Hillary Rodham Clinton;
US Senator: 6 years
(and 8 years as First Lady)
That's 6 years in Elected Public Office.

By that assessment, JFK was twice as experienced as Hillary Clinton, as an elected public representative. The degree to which you weight 'time served' is, of course, a moot point and entirely up to you.

Although to make one personal point, I think Obama's time in State Senate shouldn't be discounted as much as it is. That experience is important too, in fact its an experience that Hillary doesn't have. I don't think experience as 'First Lady' counts for nearly as much as State Senator, certainly if I was voting.

But I can't, I live in the UK!

v   January 8th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

For the first time in American history, a women has the opportunity to become president–that is until this "american idol" nonsense started to invade peoples minds, albeit because of Oprah–only she could pull this one off. Whats happened to you women out there who changed in mid stream….what a shame this has been a long fight. For so many years Oprah has been empowering women (white women) to be great…but when it come to her black roots all the women have now taken a back seat. She's not for you and never will be. Remember her TV specail honoring all the women she admired–they were black. That is what she wants–thanks to all of you african american women who still support Hillary–there are many of you that Oprah doesnt fool. Not only do we have the opportunity to have a woman president but Hillary is also prepared to lead this country. Her roots have always been for the middle class and unfortunate. It not too late NH women–take a stand for all the women and children of the world. Elect Hillary….lets get this slick passive aggressive male Obama out of the race–he doesnt belong in it. He's been groomed by Oprah for along time now–its all fixed……………..STAND UP AND FIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Beatriz Rosado   January 8th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

I can not believe how some americans discuss politics based on how good or bad a candidate looks. Have you realized what is happening to our currency, our economy, our education . Ovidio used to said that everybody was rich in promises. Words like change, new ideas, freedom, the future, optimism, a new way of doing things mean nothing without action.

George   January 8th, 2008 7:57 am ET

Unfortunately people have figured Hillary out. Too bad for me since I'm a Republican and would have loved to have her as the Democratic nominee.

Isaiah   January 8th, 2008 7:52 am ET

This picture is priceless! Look at her face! is that a smile?! What the hell is she doing! I wonder how Bill is handling that TYEMPER!

Marissa   January 8th, 2008 3:51 am ET

Anyone who thinks that Obama can clean up the mess Bush has left through reaching across the aisle and bringing people together - hmm, why, I have a sense of deja vu. Wasn't someone promising to do the same exact thing in 2000? And didn't that turn out especially well. I have a bridge in Brooklyn to sell those people.

I'm 25; and I'm disgusted that I'm part of a demographic that's being distracted by something shiny and can't see that there's what's there resembles vapor.

I like that the Clintons are ruthless. I think we need people who are going to know exactly where the chess pieces are in Washington, and how to move them. I think they'll actually be playing for the greater good this go-'round. I think they're in a position to fix some things that need fixing, and they learned what went wrong and how before. This country needs that for 8 years to get back on track, and then I want to end this sad dynasty crap we've got going on and welcome in some fresh faces.

I want someone who can go in there with a clear picture of what to do and how to make things *work*. I want healthcare fixed. I want to not be afraid of my President. I want to strengthen the education of our children so that they can compete in this ever-changing global market.

It doesn't matter if Obama wins New Hampshire. The rest of this country needs to band together and not let two states who can't see real substance dictate another 4 years of a mediocre presidency. Let him win NH - then Hillary can be the comeback story; and we all know how you media types love a comeback.

Jim, Okla.   January 8th, 2008 12:35 am ET

How can anyone know wheather he is a muslum or not. He very well could be a plant from Kenya. He is racist, you can tell by his church. Of coarse he is not showing it at the present, but wait tell he gets in office. It will divide our nation again. Blacks aganist Whites. The Clintons have worked for years to tear down that wall. It is only going to take a few months to destroy what they built. Their is already people arguing about his comment about being Black enough. Then to have Oprah go to S.C and cite Martin Luther King. Obama is a divider. The Repbulicans and Karl Rove are playing him.

AJ, IL   January 7th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Obama is right. Hillary and her campaign behavior over the last month and half is depressing. When she was leading in public opinion polls during the summer and in the early primary states, she was dubbed by mainstream media as the inevitable Democratic nominee and riding on CLOUD NINE. Anything anyone said about her did not phase her. Now with a 3rd place finish in Iowa and potentially another 3rd place finish in New Hampshire, Hillary has gone from positive to negative.

Hillary just doesn't get it! She may have answers to national healthcare (which she has been involved in over the past 14 years with no success) she totally one dimensional. She can't geniunely answer any other important national issues.

When Chris Matthews (attending a Hillary pep rally) asked Hillary, what specifically is the difference between her plan for exiting Iraq and Obama's plan? Hillary didn't answer his question. Hillary got defensive and then tried to play nice after the Q&Q with Chris Matthews. Sorry Hillary, you need to answer questions straightforwardly and specifically. Without the Clinton name (Bill Clinton that is), Hillary would be placing 3rd place to last in most of the primaries.

OBAMA in '08!

Kiloki   January 7th, 2008 11:23 pm ET

Vote for Hilary Clinton '08!! We need her. We desperately, depressingly, tragically need her. We should be happy to hear her offer us STRATEGIC, REALISTIC promises, things that we can definitely do to get back in the right direction, rather than follow the sweet meaningless nothings of a man who has absolutely no experience! She is real, she's a true American, and she has Bill supporting her! Whether or not she has any uptight personality qualities, I am positive Bill can more than make up the charisma! Vote for Hilary Clinton '08! (Oh and YEAH, why ISN'T ANYONE MENTIONING OBAMA'S TRUE RELIGIOUS BACKGROUND????)

John   January 7th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Choose a leader who can gets work done NOT a leader who can talk.

Paul L   January 7th, 2008 10:59 pm ET

I don't understand why people don't say Obama is specific enough. Just watch the debates and read the websites. It took me 10 minutes on Google. His ideas are really not much different than Hillary's, except less communist and "nanny state". No candidate is perfect. His primary strength will be foreign relations with our allies, which he will excel at due to his intelligence, cooperative spirit, and articulation. OUR job is to force Congress to be accountable and get beneficial legislation through. To tell Congress that we want our troops out and that we want our tax money spent to help US! Hilary’s elitism assumes we are too helpless to do it ourselves. Her fear of the Republicans is contagious and indeed depressing. “Mother Hilary will take care of us and protect us from the Big Bad Republican Conspiracy.”

His message is not that he can go it alone and do everything himself. "Empty" speeches are meant to INSPIRE, not to tell his supporters what every technical issue is going to be. Watch any famous presidential speech "Nothing to fear but fear itself… , Ask not what your country can do for you…, etc." It is foolish to expect technical issues brought out during a SPEECH. Do you go to church, or listen to music, or read books to learn how to solve every specific mundane detail in your life, or do you learn ideas, concepts, and be inspired to be part of something greater and strong enough to meet various undefinable challenges?

Obama is bringing PEOPLE into politics-that is the change. By bringing people into politics, that means a more educated voting base, which means CONGRESS, the real instrument of change, might actually be accountable for ONCE! Yes, we Obama supporters may end up being wrong if Obama is elected. Yet, we took a gamble to improve this country, we got involved, we had the courage to make a difference. I am tired of fear and I refuse to be afraid of the Republican machine anymore!

Janel, St. Paul, MN   January 7th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

Reading all the entries to date - I feel discouraged, especially when I read about Obama's campaign being attacked by Anti-abortion activists. Not that I disagree with their views, but I am wondering if they also made their voices heard at all the other candidate's rallys. Except for Mike Huckabee and Fred Thompson, all the candidates have supported Roe vs. Wade (with the exception of McCain and Romney who only support abortion in cases of rape, incest or the life of the mother). am an Obama supporter. Do I truly believe he has the experience to lead the greatest free country in the world? Not completely. . .but I believe he has the intellect, passion, desire, decency . .and the ability to bring in individuals (Republican, Democrat, and Independent) who will work with him to accomplish his goals. Obama has stated over and over . . .much as JFK. . .that he will depend upon Americans to help his goals come to fruition. There is no way any one individual . . .be it Obama, Clinton, Guiliani, Romney or McCain. . .can accomplish all that they are promising. Each of them are presenting their dreams. . .or "hopes" as Obama declares. And each of us as American citizens  have our own dreams and must work with whoever becomes president to make them a reality.I'm SO tired of Senator Clinton stating that, "I have 35 years experience," yet doesn't detail what that experience encompasses. Admittedly, she was in the White House for eight years, but some of her desires at that time didn't come to be, such as her health care initiative. I'd like to learn a bit more about the other experiences she touts.
As for Obama, when writers state that he is "just talk," I urge them to go to http://www.barackobama.com to read about his "hopeful" vision.And as for me, II fervently want a change. While I admire many things about the various candidates, I am convinced the individual who can lead our country forward is Barack Obama. Unlike other candidates, Senator Obama has said repeatedly that he "doesn't have all the answers," and "I will make some mistakes." Senator Obama  has a vision. . .not unlike those of  FDR, JFK and Robert Kennedy. He has the charisma, the intelligence and ability to bring people together — throughout the world — to make us all proud once again to be Americans."Your own story and the American story are not separate–they are shared. And they will both be encirhced if we stand up together and answer a new call to service to meet the challenges of our new century… I won't just ask for your vote as a candidate: I will ask for your service and your active citizenship when I am president of the United States. This will not be a call issued in one speech or program; this will be a cause of my presidency." Barack Obama. Speech in Mt. Vernon, Iowa. December 5, 2007.

Manuela   January 7th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

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.

John   January 7th, 2008 10:55 pm ET

I am a Singaporean and a supporter of Hillary. I would like to say a few words about my Singapore experience.

America is a rich country. A lot is at stake at election time. Choosing a leader is not like buying a shirt. If you had bought the wrong shirt you can buy another. If you chosse the wrong leader you will have to bear the consequences of your bad decision for four years. So everyone must vote responsibly.

Choosing a leader is not about choosing one with charisma who can charm you. If you go for charm, you have to forego substance.

The bottom line of choosing a leader is not about choosing one that can charm you or create hope in you. It is about choosing a leader who is experience enough to get the work done.

What is the use of choosing one with charm and charisma and not having enough experience to get the work done. This is the risk of choosing an inexperienced.

Vote wisely, your future and a lot of things are at stake. Better to be cautious than to be sorry.
Hillary is more experienced and get things done. She doesn't have the charisma as Obama. But leaders are not judged by their charisma.

Leaders are judged by the things they are able to get done. Vote for Hillary to get things done.

Claudia   January 7th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

I would never ever vote for Obama, and if for some weird reason he is nominated as the democrat candidate I for one will vote as a Republican for the first time in my life in order to keep him out of office. I do not trust, or believe anything he says. Politics should not be only rhetoric, but also substance and he has NO substance at all and nothing to back him up as a doer which is what we need.
AGAIN, my vote will be for a Republican if Obama gets nominated as a democratic nominee.

George from Oregon   January 7th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Reading through this list of posts is an eye opening experience and full of revelations. Some I could not keep to myself:

1. There is way too much cynical, quick to 'hate' discourse in this country.

I suppose we have Reagan and the 'Contract with America' crowd to thank for that - their failed movement(s) gave permission to publicly espouse hate talk and call it political discourse.

We can see some change coming if you listen to the discourse from Obama, Huckabee, Edwards and, to some extent, McCain.

2. There is way, way too much inaccurate information, and too many conclusions and accusations based on that inaccurate information.

– When we complain about an ineffective government, we should look in the mirror for the cause.
– When we complain about political 'games', we should look in the mirror for the ones who allow it to happen.
– When we do choose to participate, we should have the personal integrity to confirm the accuracy of our message.
– When we interact with our fellow citizens, we should speak to them as we would our grandmother.

3. I originally was going to post a link to last week's NOW program on PBS as an eye-opening reference for the origin of the slanderous lie(s) about Obama. (refuse to use the words of the opposition). Here it is:

Dirty Politics 2008
http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/401/index.html

In the process, I also found additional pieces relevant to the topic:

Anatomy of a Smear
Sorting Fact from Fiction in the 2008 Election Campaign
http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/401/political-smears.html

The Misinformation Superhighway?
http://www.pbs.org/now/shows/401/internet-politics.html

> Nomad: what is your source for the supposed accusations of lazy? From the day after the 2004 convention until now, what I have heard from BOTH Republican and Democratic colleagues of Obama are about his hard work, intelligence and insight. Are you sure you're not confusing the reputation of Thompson?

### Commit to 30 days of watching CSPAN instead of 'entertainment' as a democratic duty for your country ##

Cynthia   January 7th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Vote for Hillary!

If you want a change, why not a first women president of American?! Think about how lately women American were allowed to vote, think about how lately women American were allowed to study in college. If you want a change,you make the change! And you are the change!

Hillary is the best who has the capability and dares to deliver her promises.

Diane from NYC   January 7th, 2008 10:01 pm ET

Did anyone hear Obama say in Saturdays's debate when it came to universal health insurance that he would only mandate it for children because alot of people can't afford it? When asked why, he said because children are the innocent and can't make these decisions for themselves. Then what happens to the rest of us? Why can't he mandate AFFORDABLE insurance for all Americans - children, the young and the old - and make it AFFORDABLE for everyone? I guess those that can't afford it are out of luck then, as usual. I mean has he really thought through that statement and how it polarizes everyone and the message it sends. Second, it's a bit contradictory, don't you think? You have to get it for your children, well, what if you can't afford it? Doesn't gel.

GaryO Virginia Beach   January 7th, 2008 9:56 pm ET

Hillary is clearly the best choice for president of the United States. And yes, Barack Obama is, in fact, raising false hopes.

He's already convinced a significant number of Americans that he can be an effective president purely because of his public relations ability. To hear Obama tell it, a president doesn't need experience, or political contacts, or even common sense. A president just needs to be loved by all of you . . .

Come on Democrats. It's time to get real! Come to your senses, and don't let silly sentimentality dominate your lives. That won't take you very far. If Barack wins the Democratic nomination, the Republicans will win the presidency.

We need a smart, experienced, and connected candidate who can stand up to the inevitable Republican spin machine.

We need Hillary.

shmarie   January 7th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Believing in change bringing about change are two very different things. Obama inspires a belief that change is possible, but Clinton is the one who can make it happen. Now is not the time to take a gamble and leap blindly off a limb. America - this is our future, our security, our children, and our world. Are we really going to gamble on eloquent speeches, and talking points? Or are we going to vote for someone with a proven record and someone who is already thinking about strategy on day one in office?

James Brown   January 7th, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Obama has won my vote , because i TRUST him. Clinton is yesterdays news and i see her as a very dishonest person that will say and do anything to get elected.

We need someone new , with fresh clean ideas , and Obama brings that to the table.

Personally i would cross party lines to keep Clinton out of the White House , and i KNOW , i am not alone in this thinking.

Jim Brown

Missy   January 7th, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Cry babies oh don't you like the fact that someone is saying Obamas daddy is Muslim well he is if he wins the Democratic nomination Rupublicans four more years in the White House. Last time I checked this was a free country so if I want to say his father is a Muslim so be it you might couldn't say that in a Muslim country think about it.

Erik   January 7th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

As a lifelong Democrat and 20 year naval officer who lived through the Clinton administration's shoddy treatment of the military, and the Bush/Cheney/Rumsfeld exploitation of our fighting men and women, I am voting for Obama if he gets the nomination.

If Hillary gets the nomination I will be voting Republican despite my extreme distate for the platform and policies.

Hillary's record as a US Senator is a bag of air, and anyone who counts her tenure as First Lady of the US or Arkansas is deluding themselves. She never held elected office until she carpet-bagged herself into my home state.

If you think she's experienced leading or inspiring people, you will turn over the White House to the GOP in 2012 to Jeb Bush for a term or two.

jeff   January 7th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

obama is shamelessly inflating the promise of change. he is driving this dog as far as it will hunt with little regard for what he will really be able to accomplish as president or what strategies may or may not work, for example the troop witrhdrawal.

rob   January 7th, 2008 9:19 pm ET

What a cacus or circus this is turning out to be. People going crazy on a man who most voters have not heard of but only a few months ago saying he can change Washington and the world if elected. He's promising all kind of things to get elected. So I searched most of his speeches,never did hear one change he could make, except hope. It's pretty risky voting for a canadiate just on hope, I know these words to young voters are refreshing I think that's the word Oprah used. But for voters who have voted a few times in their life time surely woundn't fall for that line. We have some of the most violent leaders in the world that are more than ready to take the us to her knees. I't will take more than refreshing , hope, and change to protect our nation. For the life of me I can't understand our country that's willing to put a two year Senator with little to none experience in his life to world affairs In the White House. I'm sure Ben Laden Is grinning about now along side Iran,North Korea, Paskistani, Argentina, Russia,just to name a few. But If you want change elect Obama and your sure to get your change . So get ready they will soon be gunning for us.

Royale Kidd   January 7th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

I am registered democrat and an African American, if Hillary doesn't get the nod, im voting Republican- Huckabee, Rudy… McCann. She is the only one with the backbone to run this country.

davodd   January 7th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

Obama reminds me of a high school kid trying to win class president by promising more vacation and pizza everyday for lunch. He'll says anything to anyone to get elected.

He is the epitome of politics as usual.

Anybody but Obama.

Lynda - NYC   January 7th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Clinton is the most convincing of all candidates. She has the track record and EXPERIENCE to prove it. – Our country is in desperate need of an “Experienced, Well-Trained and Accomplished Politician” to be able to take on the disaster our country has become, not a junior, inexperienced senator with good intentions.

Hillary, you have earned my vote.

Tammy   January 7th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

Obama?

No thanks. Watch the debates, not experienced, talks alot about change but is not offering how he is going to bring it about. It is not as easy as
he is making it seem for all the younger voters just getting into politics.

Hillary is smart, thinks on her feet ( a nice change from the boob in office today).

And yes, alot was done while Bill Clinton was in office for health care in the way of federal mandates for womans health care and children. (you really think Bill was behind that)?

I belive most people just don't want a woman as president.

As a mother of 4 boys ages 16-25, shame on you.

andrew M   January 7th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

30 years white house families BUSH and CLINTON. Out of 300 Million great Americans.
I guess thats a good example of Cooperate America System.

I cant stop shaking my head.

judy   January 7th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

GO HILLARY!!

You can't have CHANGE without EXPERIENCE!!

Vote for CHANGE and most importantly, EXPERIENCE–Hillary 08!!

marymarlene gaskill   January 7th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

There we go again. The guys ganging up on Hillary. Let's talk about her record. The republicans don't want to run against her. Because the voters know everything about her except the color of her underwear. With her there won't be any last hour scandals next fall! I saw her answer question for two hours in Penacook, N.H. Please name another candidate that has done that??

Let's demand something besides tabloid reporting from the press and media. This election is not about the hosts and comentators. This election is to important to voters of both parties.There responsibility should be fairly and accurately reporting facts and issues! No, wonder congress has such a low ranking with the public. The majority of opinions are formed by misleading soundbites.
SHAME, SHAME, SHAME

Anthony   January 7th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Obama is inexperienced, it's true. How about Hillary? What has she done? Name it. Not her husband - her. She failed with Health Care reform. The other defining moment of her political career was her vote on Iraq, and she got it wrong.

If she thought it would help her win, you get the feeling she'd become a Republican tomorrow. I'll take Obama's inexperience over her failures and cynicism. Or, I'll take anyone else who is running.

I loved Bill, but he ain't running, people!

Amirage   January 7th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Yes, Hillary was shown on CNN to have gotten emotional. It was her concern that our country "would fall backwards." Wouldn't you also be upset at the thought of a newbie becoming President? I'd cry to! LOL!

H I L L A R Y * C L I N T O N '08

katie   January 7th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

A few points:
1. Many people try to equate Obama's (lack of) experience with Bush's inexperience. Come on, that's a smoke screen. Bush has come to become the worst president ever not because he was inexperienced but because he was (and still is) lazy, uninformed and uninterested, arrogant and stubborn, a very bad combination. Obama, on the other hand, is the entire opposite.
2. Change does not come from experience. It comes from the desire to change. Clinton and this perfect-haired guy started talking about the need for change only after it became clear that the majority of Americans were demanding it - from the Iowa results and people's subsequent reactions. Clinton kept talking about her experience, and her past experience clearly showed that she supported all Bush's foreign policy, including the Iraq war, Iran and the all-important unquestioned support of Israel with its apartheid policies.
3. Some people kept criticizing Obama for his lack of specifies. We all know that once someone got elected to the WH, many of the campaign promises go out the window. Reality has a way of making that happen. Specifics are less important than good ideas which include hope.

marymarlene gaskill   January 7th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Give me a break! Race isn't supposed to be an issue. Remember????????
I getting really sick of the media and it's coverage and it's debates. You should
understand by your own poll. 83% of the voters are not swayed by New Hampshire and Iowa. Why doesn’t the media speak of the issues??
Obama has never been vetted. Why isn't his record being reported?? How about his 131 "present" votes in the Illinois senate? How about the foreign relations sub-committee that he chairs? Especially, the fact that he has never convened the committee except to confirm individuals?? He is truly an inspirational SPEAKER. If he wins the nomination, the republicans will kill him. Because his record and past has only been report until about the age of about 25. What has he actually accomplished in his political career?
I have never seen anything like Hillary's treatment by the media. She has been scrutinized for years. I don't see any other candidates being ridiculed and made fun of on TV on a regular basis. It is reminiscent of media treatment of Al Gore in 2000 and Howard Dean in 2004. But, it goes way beyond that. She has been kicked around for the last 15 years. What about her accomplishments in the US senate?
She is by no means out of the race. She has more delegates than all the other democrats combined. I've only seen that once and have been glued to all political shows of all media outlets for the last 2 weeks.
I also want to complain about the treatment of the unknown or "second tier" candidates in both parties. Shame on you!!!!!! It is a disservice to the American voters and public.
By the way! One person can not enact CHANGE, they can only set the agenda!

As previous New Hampshire resident, I am jealous of their opportunity to be up close and personal with all of the candidates. We in Georgia feel that it doesn't make a difference by the time we get to vote in our primary, because the media has manipulated the process by tabloid reporting because it's inexpensive

Ann   January 7th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

There is no possible way Obama has the experience whether it be academic, political, or life to run this country.

Lori   January 7th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

I will sit back and laugh at all you fools who vote Obama as our Democratic Candidate, becuase there is no way in HELL America is voting in a black man, EVER and we will end up with the same old same old, OLD RICH WHITE MAN who doesn't give a CRAP about us or America, just themselves. So be careful, kids don't show up on voting day, Obama is young, come back in 8 years and we'll talk but for now, I'm going with experience but due to a lot of missinformed people out there, we'll be sharing the inauguration with another rich old white man sitting in the WHITE house!

Grow up   January 7th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

It looks like Barack has kids posting on every blog in his favor. It's the same copy and paste over and over.

I am outraged this shell of a man is using young adults and children as a pawn. No sensible educated American would vote for this guy. They just wouldn't. It's like an election at Disneyland. I'm pulling for Senator Hillary Clinton, but if she doesn't make it past Feb 5th (I think she will) I'm going to look outside my party for the first time ever and still vote, but it won't be for Barack.

Teresa, Kansas   January 7th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Seems like all of her "EXPERIENCE" would have taught her not to cry in front of camera's while running for president!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1111

andrew M   January 7th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Bush and Clinton?? USA WAKE UP!!! WAKE UP!!!! WAKE UP!!! WAKE UP!!!. 2 FAMILIES TO LEAD THIS NATION FOR OVER 30 YEARS??? A POPULATION OF 300 MILLION PEOPLE??? WHAT DO YOU THINK THE REST OF THE WORLD THINKS????? some kind of a 2 family monarchy?? Worst change and foreign policy approach.

Makes me wanna run for presidency promising for a FAMILY rule Cahnge in the USA and abroad!! thats real Change.

Good luck

Marsha, Portland, OR   January 7th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

That's because Obama lives in a fantasy world of his on making where everything is happy la, la and he will "change" the world with all of his hope. He will not have to do it by working with congress, he will not have to do it with working with foreign countries, he will do it purely with words, and the inspiration of hope! Yes, that's right.

C'mon now people, get a grip. How does change take place in the American government. Well, we aren't a monarchy, so most of it has to take place through the congress. Congress…hmm..yes, Obama knows a little about this, but not much because most of his time was spent as a state congressman. And International Relations, please growing up in another country and having been (past tense) muslim doesn't give you more credit in the internation political arena. Experience in working with congress to get the bill passed that will put forth the CHANGE that you want to effect, experience working foreign countries to change international relations…not hoping them into better relations. Enough with this pulpit message of hope! I have hope for American but not that it will be change by a novice senator like Obama

people - WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

before it's too late…

Jimenez   January 7th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Who cares about Obama's dad or that he is a member of trinity united chruch of christ in illionis. What we should care about is the democrats who are being lured by lies and deception into his camp. We knew the republicans and independents were going to fake support for him. But the democrats? Come on. Clinton campaign is far from depressing. It is also true that Obama hasn't been on CSPAN - hardly answered any questions on the debate. Did you look at his body language this guy was so laid back. He doesn't like to talk on the debates because he doesnt have a clue.
So we can call these people that are going to listen to him sheep. We can pretend that this is a remake of the body snatchers and these people who are going to support him are only clones. We can envision the pied piper leading these people to another republican in the whiteshouse? We can go on about what happened in Iowa and what may happen in NH. I do not foresee him winning and if he does not by much. The numbers will start to dwindle the more and more he talks. This guy says "hey elect me and we are getting our troops out of Iraq". don't forget to look for the footnote. "So I can send them to Pakistan."
This Obama wave will bring nothing but destruction. The media frenzy - him not talking and when he does he preaches. Hope and change. He is beginning to sound more on more like some preacher on TV. He may find Hillary depressing - he may say she is dull. What he knows deep inside his sould is that Hillary is a far better candidate.

andrew M   January 7th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Bush and Clinton?? USA WAKE UP!!! WAKE UP!!!! WAKE UP!!! WAKE UP!!!. 2 FAMILIES TO LEAD THIS NATION FOR OVER 30 YEARS??? A POPULATION OF 300 MILLION PEOPLE??? WHAT DO YOU THINK THE REST OF THE WORLD THINKS????? some kind of a 2 family monarchy?? Worst change and foreign policy approach.

Makes me wanna run for presidency promising for a change domestically and abroad!!

Good luck

Rob   January 7th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Everyone speaks in rhetoric - wake up. If it was about action, BIden wouldn't have had to drop out this early. Bush won on one topic, 911. He called his opponent a flip flopper for saying something… meanwhile saying nothing. It's why governors tend to win elections over senators. Senators have a voting record against them - facts. You pick apart your opponents records, and speak in generalities, until you're forced to defend yourself. Unless you "take the high road".

It's the same thing every year.

I personally am for any democrat - besides Hillary - but I do prefer Obama, I love the enthusiasm that he's generating. Bush has really beaten the country into the ground.

And BTW, Obama isn't Muslim.

Elizabeth Fenimore, Sacramento, CA   January 7th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

PLEASE! do not compare Obama with Kennedy. Obama is a high schooler compared to Kennedy.
Yes, he is charismatic. Yes, he does give good, passionate speeches.
But what else is there?
We need more than charisma and passionate speeches to make effective changes in America.
And, when elected into office, what are the chances ANYONE can actualize any kind of meaningful change?
Do any of us realize what REAL CHANGE will require of us, the every day American?
The sacrifice?
Do we?
My forefather was a signer of the Declaration of Independence.
He and his cronies would be rolling in their graves, if they saw the state of our country.
I sumbit, with much angst, that the change we all say we are seeking will come in the form of revolution by the people. Heads will roll, the tea will be thrown into the harbor, and Paul Revere again will ride.
We are no more sophisticated in that regard than our middle eastern neighbors - they, however, seem to go for it and expect the world to clean up their mess.
Who will clean up OUR MESS?
How do you all expect things to change?
Are we willing to scrap the car we drive RIGHT NOW and BUY a greener car, so we can truly affect our dependency on foreign oil?
Will you go out RIGHT NOW, and BUY compact flourescent light bulbs?
Will you stop using environmentally hazzardous products - RIGHT NOW - and BUY the ones that have less of an effect on the environment?
Are we willing to mandate by law that we all have to BUY health insurance, when some of us can barely feed or families, much less put money in the bank for college, a down payment on a house, or take care of a elderly parent?
Will you all wake up and realize that elections cannot be determined by political polls driven by the media or the sound bites you hear on the evening news.
Will we stop - RIGHT NOW - and change ourselves?
DO WE CARE ABOUT EACHOTHER, OUR FELLOW AMERICANS, ENOUGH TO PARTICIPATE IN CHANGE?
Or, are we, as I see it, ostriches with our heads in the sand, hoping some new charismatic political front man will do the work for us?
Kennedy had it - "…ask what you can do for your country…"
We've been living on what our country can do for us for decades.
Our politicians have been living on the benefits of what our country could do for them.
The status quo doesn't care who is president.
Our politicians reflect the values of the people who voted them into office -
AND THAT'S YOU AND ME.
You want that to change?
Commit to being the change!

shmarie   January 7th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Obama is certainly charismatic and likable. And while he was right when, at Saturday's debate, he emphasized the power of charisma and words to inspire, it is not what he mentioned, but that which he failed to mention, that is most important. The point America seems to be missing is that charisma does not necessarily translate into good leadership skill or ability. All of the words, hope, and inspiration in the world will not translate into change and a better America without a well-considered plan to move forward - one in which all angles and consequences have been considered. America has elected charismatic inexperience - and it failed. Now, more than ever, we need a leader with commanding presence, experience, and a plan. Clinton has a record which proves she delivers on campaign promises. When are we going to wake up and realize that no amount of charisma and potential for leadership can replace true leadership experience and get America out of what Bush put us in? Clinton is the only candidate with the foresight, experience, and savvy to move America beyond empty campaign rhetoric to a better America. She is the only candidate that can not only promise change, but deliver it as well.

Cathy   January 7th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

The people who keep insisting that Obama is a Muslim because his father and stepfather were Muslim are the same people who insist I must be Protestant because my mother was born a Lutheran. Nevermind that she converted to Catholicism when she was 15, and I was raised Catholic and then went agnostic in the end. Nope, nothing that happened in two generations changed that at all. I'm Lutheran through and through.

If his father had been Jewish, then everybody would be singing a different tune.

Sandy   January 7th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

If Obama wins the nomination- Republicans will be in the White house another 4 years-

davidvoter08   January 7th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

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 orator 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, such as Obama! Change is good, but can change to a positive or negative direction! We should reminder 8 years ago, Bush also said changes. Let’s support Hillary, because we love this country! We will not allow this country suffer another disaster presidential term!

G. Robinson   January 7th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

I just hope that everyone realizes that no other candidates mentioned anything about CHANGE until Barack Obama won in Iowa. Beside John McKain, all the others are abunch of copy cat fakes who can't hold their own. Barack Obama is an ORIGINAL - HE"S NOT RIDING SOMEONE ELSE'S CAMAPIGN TO GET VOTES. WHAT A BUNCH OF FAKES.

jo   January 7th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Barack for President on 08.
I was reading some of the comments posted and some of the negative comments did not make sense to me.

First of all so what if Barack grew up a muslim..does that make him a criminal/terrorist?…what if you grew up a catholic, does that make you a child molester..give me a break….he was born in HAWAII..I think that makes him an american with rights to run for president.

Then I read about his qualifications..how about Bush..his application was denied when he applied for some college in Texas..but he gets into Harvard..ok..figure that one out.

Christian, Tampa FL   January 7th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

That's a somewhat inflammatory picture. I don't think Hillary is excluded because she is a woman, but rather because she is demanded acceptance of her inevitability and rubbed a lot of people the wrong way, including yours truly. It has nothing to do with her gender.

Demazumder   January 7th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

The criticality of the present International condition and the deplorable economical condition of our country, we need some one with experience and dept of understandng. Bush has done so much harm to this country that we really would have to struggle for years to survive and to claim back our economy from the corporate greed.

Obama is too young and too green for dealing with such complex situation in both home and international front.

We Need the experience of CLINTON. Obama is good but he should prepare himself and learn the ways of politics before he takes the helm.

NO OBAMA!   January 7th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

I've been watching some of Barak's coverage on CNN and it appears he is even tired of the same old song and dance. Did he fire his speech writer? Why is he repeating the same stuff over and over in which he is even tired of. He sounds STALE!

bobby   January 7th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

For all of you Obama haters you are funny as heck..Hillary is breaking down under pressure crying ect…thats not the type of president i want..when the oven gets hot her hormones act up what a joke…You Obama haters can say negative things all you want you are going to lose so get use to it…people are tired of the same old crap bush, clinton, bush, and clinton again i dont think so…Obama is just as qualified as everyone else that is running…im sorry Hillary but being the wife of a Arkansas governor and the presidents mistress doesn't qualify as experience…excuse me what political decisions did she make or policy changes did she make in these 2 positions??? … im sorry i cant find anything until she became a senator and thanks to bill for that…im sorry but fear is not going to work this time…its what the republicans have used for years remember Willie Horton…and the clinton machine is trying to use a bunch of red-neck folks trying to spread false information again ha ha…it is not going to work folks so grow up and get over it…sound like a bunch of cry babies…

aware   January 7th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

A positive note: The negative comments on The Ticker are not as ugly as the ones on First Read. Does that say something about the media?

Nadine   January 7th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Hilary you are ridiculous! Trying to be uber confident and tough isnt really getting you no where, except for having less supporters. Good luck! (not really)

Jesse - San Antonio TX   January 7th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

As far as Senator Obama's Hope and Change Campaign: It's all smoke and mirrors and Politics as usual.

Senator Obama was not in office when the vote was made to go to war. So it's easy for him to say that he was against it before it began. But he voted to fund the war he wants to end up until he announced his run for president.

Obama did not vote for or against the recent pork filled energy bill.

He did that 36 out of 50 times when a vote came up that could haunt him he held the Illinois state office. Unlike the 80% of US Senate votes he missed because of campaigning, he was present each time and voted "present" not "yea" or "nea".

He does not walk the walk.

He touts his non-lobbyist agenda but has a Pfizer Lobbyist Chairing his campaign. He arguement was that he was a state, not federal lobbyist. So it's okay, right? A lobbyist is a lobbyist. Smoke and mirrors.

He touts that he " prohibited lobbyists from buying meals for members of Congress". He did do that. But it only for sit down meals. It's still okay as long as you stand. Smoke and Mirrors.

Your not really getting change. Your getting another charismatic, inexperienced POLITICIAN.

It's not the Clinton Machine, it's a brand new one.

The only difference is that Obama's black and black is cool and hip.

And sadly thats all that matters nowadays. Experience and capability is no longer desired by the American People.

That is why America will fail.

aware   January 7th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

It is interesting that the so called inspirational rhetoric of barack Obama influences his supporters to comment in such a mean, negative style. Is this the change we can look forward to? I find this very depressing!

It is also interesting how much a win can evaporate the veneer of humility and reveal the arrogance in a candidate.

Jenna   January 7th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

His name is Barak Houssain Obama- dont forget that.

Andy, New York, New York   January 7th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Hillary shouldn't be talking about 'false hopes'. She came to New York and promised she only wanted to serve us, nice people. We, well not me, voted her twice for senate, cause we thought she simply wanted to serve us.

Then just as our hopes were being solidified, she dumped us to run for the White House. She already been there for 8 years, for crying out loud!

What did she hide or forgot in the White House that she must go back to retrieve? Can't be the Rose Law Firm book that she couldn't find for two years as investigators were waiting for her to hand it to them! What is it?

And she keeps saying she has delivered CHANGE! What change has she delivered in 35 years? Can she be more specific? Is she saying that she ran the country for 8 years vicariously through Bill? She's either lying or she is lying?

Marie   January 7th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

It's ironic that the country is ready to elect an African American president before they elect a woman.

While Obama is judged however leniently on the content of his character and his biography, a different standard applies to Hillary Clinton. If she is assertive and fights back, then she is a witch, if her eyes are teary she is surely falling apart. Did she break down in uncontrollable sobs and ran off stage or launched an emotional tirade? Not really.

Both Bill Clinton and George H.W. Bush had shown as teared up on occasion in public without it becoming an issue. If a man cries in public he is sensitive if a woman does, she is a flake.

We have indeed come a long way..

Question   January 7th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Can Barack supporters spell? Our education system is down the tubes.

Scott   January 7th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

I am not sure if Change is action because he keeps on said change over and over. We will never know for sure if he will keep that words about what he wants to change America. Also it will be test for him if he win the office. Look at debate last Sat night. He not that strong talker. he just laid back while Edward, Richardson, and Clinton spoke up with fire and passion. Obama not that strong talker and he knows the words that all of us want to hear then when he enter the White house and never do anything then we are screw.

To Obama supporters, how would you all feel if Obama never keep the promise or show some change that he has say over and over in the champaing?? THen we will have to stuck with him for 4 yrears alike we are stuck with Bush for 8 years because we liked what he said and look at us today, We are in bad position as his father. So I enouraged you all please to think pros and cons among all of candicates before you make the final decision. We need to think careful about who is right person for office

Josh   January 7th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

After what Hillary said about MLK she has no place in this country!

Obama 08

lee   January 7th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

I don't know what is happening with our country. You think we would have had enough BS from our leaders over the last 8 yrs. to really look closely at the debates and really hear what the candidates are saying and how scary some of them are. Clinton is soooo educated and experienced and an excellent speaker and it is too bad the other dem. apponents are teaming up on her. I am glad that she is staying strong and telling it like it truly is. I think people need to go to these candidates' individual sights and track their records and really see who is the best candidate. PLEASE do not make a terrible mistake because you think these other candidates like obama will make the necessary changes. Where will we be in the next 4 yrs????? If we are here in the next 4 yrs………..

Katie   January 7th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Obama is Americas version of American Idols Taylor Hicks! Ok all joking aside I like Obama im just starting to worry that he's getting all this attention because he has "star quality" all smoke and mirrors and I really dont want to have to spend another 4 or 8 more years with a crappy president dont get me wrong if Obama proves to be intelligent and smart and not winning states because to the young crowd he's "cool" then im all for it. I just really want the democratic canidate that is the best and most intelligent right now Im voting for Hiliary until i've seen in a debate that he deserves my vote instead.

Bob - Florida   January 7th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

"Senior-level leadership is the art of direct and indirect influence and the skill of creating the conditions for sustained organizational success to achieve the desired result. But, above all, it is the art of taking a vision of what must be done, communicating it in a way that the intent is clearly understood, and then being tough enough to ensure its execution."

FM 22-103, Leadership and Command at Senior Levels, 21 Jun 1987, p. 6, signed by Gen John A. Wickham, Jr., Chief of Staff

Go Obama!

I was an American Fighting Man, I am an American Fighting Man, I will always be an American Fighting Man and I support Barack Hussein Obama for President of the United States of America.

Marie   January 7th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Do we want to elect another likable guy who may not have the experience or grasp of policy detail? And why not. He will have advisers to help him, right? Sounds alarmingly familiar. Well, Obama is certainly more polished.

But lets compare his record to Hillary's where it bears comparison. She was re-elected to Senate in landslide. The New Yorkers like her including the Republicans in upstate New York because of her work re-vitalizing the state economy. Fellow senators, including Republican ones speak highly of her.

I don't think I saw Obama ONCE speaking in Senate on CSPAN.

Since all three leading candidates are senators, the press should stop and examine their track record in some depth instead of focusing on the horse race.

Missy   January 7th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Why is it that no one says anything about Baraks father is it because he is Muslim. I personally do not want to vote for someone that does'nt have that much experience. I also wonder what this country would do if Barak becomes President and we have another terrorists attack from muslims and he goes easy on them because his father is Muslim. Why is it that no one asks him about his father are all the news people that afraid to stir things up does Barak have you under his spell an inexperienced Senator that has spent 1 year on the job do you really think that he can lead the USA?

ida   January 7th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

I agree. Do we want another inexperienced leader in Washington? Also, why didn't the press run with the Richardson-Obama pact in Iowa???? lis

esther   January 7th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Hillary for 2008!!!

Most nations of the world view the United States of America as the most liberated and forward-moving nation in the world and so look up to this nation. What a laugh! The thing is that although in some aspects the above is true, in others, (especially where it counts most), nothing could be further from the truth. How else do you explain why in its entire history, America has never had a woman head of state or why Sen. Clinton, although very qualified, is having so much trouble getting people to take a chance on her? Germany, Brazil and many other nations have women as their leaders and even most Muslim states with their strigent sharia laws have had women leaders. But not this country and the funny thing is that even women who are supposed to be rejoicing because finially their moment has come to help shape this nation in a different directions are deserting her. What a shame.
Margaret Thatcher, Indira Ghandi, Golda Meir, Bhuto all did so much for their country and I am sure Clinton will do no less if given the chance. So, why not take a chance on her?

wxs3   January 7th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I'm concerned that "maybe" Obama might be getting set up. To me it doesn't make sense to bring in an unexperienced President with all of the tension in the world today. I believe in my heart that Hillary could defeat anyone on the Republician side, but I'm not sure of Obama. I think the inexperience card would be a major campaign issue and I think that Republicans are low enough to under mind the Clinton campaign so that someone they feel they have a better chance of beating will win the nomination. All of the Republicans that are now supporting Obama, will they be there in November?? Something tells me they won't and America will be faced with another Republican President. Let's listen to the candidates on the issues and if they want to go after someone, let it be the Republicans, not each other.

Chris   January 7th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Anyone who thinks Obama is "all fluff", "all talk", "no substance", or whatever, only needs to watch his bio on the Biography Channel. In Canada, it's available on-demand from the cable providers. This is guy is unique - brilliant, committed, indefatigable, honest - who grew up with an understanding of what it's like to be white, black, asian (stepfather's family is from Indonesia), african (dad was from Kenya), middle american (mom was from kansas), christian, muslim.

He's a great family man, he's been a community organizer, first black president of the Harvard Law Review, a civil rights lawyer, state senator. Man it makes me feel very humble.

Billie   January 7th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Hillary stay strong in your convictions in what you can do for our country. You have the experience through your years of public service. You have my vote for sure.

Linda Feldman   January 7th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Why is everyone so afraid of the Republicans? They are saddled with George W. Bush's record and no attack machine is bad enough or ruthless enough to convince the American people that it can be defended. That's what this election is all about — a condemnation of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney and how they put our armed forces in harm's way by falsifying intelligence, how they used our constitution as so much scratch paper, of how they abused the world's support after 9/11 and how they enriched their own on the backs of average Americans.

I say we win with any Democratic candidate but we rejuvenate our country with Obama.

Linda   January 7th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

There is more than one Linda on this blog, so the time would nice in reference to your comment J7 @ 4:43

I will comment either way:

Did not Bush promise to bring this country together? A team of advisors like Karl? Lies from advisors in regards to weapons of mass destruction? And on and on I could go…………….those kind of promises the people don't need.

No, I don't want false promises again!! And that is all Obama is giving the people. He is not competent to be president.

smarterThanPaul   January 7th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Paul stated:
Why has not anyone brought up the fact that Obama is a Muslim (and his Parents back ground) and why are we voting for this guy? Talk about being Anti -American.

Paul,

You've either won "the biggest idiot EVER" award or the "i like unusually subtle sarcasm" award…

I'm going with the former.

Clare   January 7th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Its time for Hillary and Bill to retire to the country, and become golfing buddies with George and Laura. Talk about the past and count their milions.
The Clinton/Bush era is over. This is not a Monarchy.
I would vote for Ron Paul before voting for Clinton.

Hope   January 7th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

"Given what we are facing as a nation today - the economy is imploding, we have critical mass in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Iran, Sudan and others we can not afford to have a president with a lot of speaking abilities and very little experience, this elections is not about who can be the best cheer leader it's about who can be the best world leader, one who is ready for the task from day one and not one who has to learn form scratch. American can not afford any more of that. Would you ever select a doctor simply because he was better at telling you what you like to hear or because they have a better hair cut and not the most experience one? That kind of selection could be disastrous for this nation. The republicans are all sipping bush's cool aid and banging on his war drums. Hilary is by far the best chance we have to shore up this nation during these very perilous times. I going to vote with my “children” in mind and what is best for this nation and that vote will be for Hillary !"

esther   January 7th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

I have been following all that has been going on from the time the candidates declared their interest in the upcoming presidential election, that what happened in Iowa took me by surprise. Nothing happened the way it was expected or even close to what was expected, (at least to me). Although I felt that somehting was wrong, I could not place my finger on it. Then, it started all over again in NH and still nobody noticed.
So much noise has been made about Obama "surging" in places where Mrs Clinton should have had solid leads that we have almost missed what has been going on right before our very eyes. Many people, especially the news media are beginning to write Mrs Clinton off for not delivering the votes and yet she has been worjing harder than ever to get those votes.
So, what went wrong, and why is Obama suddenly the greater "unifer," the only one of all the democratic candidates who can get the votes? I finally realized what is going on and that is that there are so many interest groups in this country, especially the Republicans who will do anything to keep the Clintons out of the White House because they hate them that they will do anything to achieve that end. Others are just plain afriad of them and know that if Mrs Clinton wins the nomination for her party, that there will be no stopping her. Hence, the so-called Obama "surge" over Mrs Clinton . They are trying to kill two birds with one stone-stop Clinton and help Obama win since they know they can easily defeat him. If you don't believe me, all you have to do is look again at the news clip of January 06, 2008, of Obama in NH. Take a very good look at those people surrounding him and then, you will see what I saw. Those people surrounding him are not there for the long run, but to create mischief.
Esther, Maryland

Kristin   January 7th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I'll tell you what's depressing - all of these moronic comments.

While we love to point the finger, the fact is that we have a responsibility as voters and we completely blew it by putting Bush in office. WE blew it. So here's our chance to get it right. I've looked at the facts, the background, the experience and the drive. Its quite obvious that Hillary Clinton is the right choice to put our country in the right direction. Wake up America.

Vote Hillary Clinton 2008!

Fly Fishing Rick-Montana   January 7th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Just saying the verb "change" could inspire "false hopes" from listeners. Obama needs to define the exact activities for the type of “change” intended and the amount of time (durations) to execute the "change". The time frame (duration) to accomplish and execute the undefined "change" could take many years (more than the initial four years of presidential assignment) and an unrealistic completion date could raise "false hopes". Simple logic.

Mike   January 7th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

The comments that have been made against Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama amaze me. I really hope some of you aren't old enough to vote because your intelligence level seems very low. Can't people have an intelligent debate about the candidates without such name calling and low blows?

andy   January 7th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

you mentioned drugs dang your so sorry! didnt Bush use drugs like someone else we know ?

No Hillary   January 7th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

I don't know who's worse here — the Hillary shills who are getting paid to post here, or the bigoted morons who keep calling Obama a Muslim.

Me   January 7th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I believe in American people. We did it right twice (2000 and 2004). We'll do it again this time. LMAO. America will be soon asking for relief packages from the rest of the world.

Babi Tinger   January 7th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It is very disturbing to me to hear that the people of Iowa tought that it was a joke
going from canditate to canditate to add a vote, here and there, and laugh
about it. They do not represent the country.
This sudden surge of Obama? What is wrong here? What is wrong with the people of this country? This guy has no experience, and what I been hearing
is that some Republicans are changing to Democrat just to vote against
Clinton. Why do so many man are agains her?
I guess this country is not ready for a woman??
Once again we will end up with someone who lacks experience and
has no diplomatic know how. Do we need an other stupid man?
We are in a mess and will be even worse off unless Mrs. Clinton wins.

Ben   January 7th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

I am embarrassed that we are not investigating Obama as much as we should. Once again, the media is pushing for a candidate, just as they did for Bush. As a nation, we are facing some of the most difficult problems we ever had to face, and the only answer we are getting is we need change???
Wake up America, before we end up with a lame duck Prez again…

dean   January 7th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Obama 08!!!

He makes me proud to be an American again a feeling I havn't felt in ages. Believe America we can do anything if we are UNITED! That is what really makes us great. Anything is possible just work hard and believe!

GO OBAMA !!!!

Mike   January 7th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Obama is a perfect example of a great debater (see Denzel Washington movie). But being a good debater doesn't mean you can change the country like he promises. He is a first term senator with no experience and he can land us in similar trouble like John Kennedy did when he botched the Bay of Pigs incident and nearly got us all killed during the Cuban missile crisis. Let's not confuse enthusiasm with competence!

Terry Bell   January 7th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

THE ONLY THING I WANT TO SAY TO YOU INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE CRITICIZING SENATOR BARACK OBAMA IS THIS!

THIS IS A MOVEMENT:

DO NOT CONTINUE TO BE AFRAID OF CHANGE!

FEAR NO OBSTACLE, BECAUSE HOPE AND PERSEVERENCE WILL

MAKE THE CHANGES YOU HAVE SET YOUR GOALS FOR!

PEOPLE/ HAVE THE AUDACITY TO BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!

Amirage   January 7th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

It confuses me that people will vote for the unknowing as oppsed to the knowing. Our country is in great peril, and I would prefer a President who has a history of making changes. Therefore I know that my faith, and my vote, goes to senator Clinton. ROCK ON GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

J7   January 7th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Barbara/Linda:

It is not enough for you that a person has the accumen to inspire the type of demographic electorates in Iowa and NH to give him a chance.

I am doubtful and suspicious of any candiate that has a solution to my concerns. I am content my concerns will be addressed. It takes a team of advisors to run the White House.

Hope has left America under Bush, we all need to get behind a candidate who has gavanized the electorate with the promise of reuniting this great country.

Linda, you are a little mean spirited.

Iowa Democrat   January 7th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Replying to 'Obama Cheated' {earlier comment on this site}

I'm not sure where you came up with this gibberish…but in my experience (and experiences many Democratic friends in different precincts- shared with me last week during the caucuses), some of the Biden supporters moved to the Richardson camp at that point where they learned their candidate was not viable. Others move to Clinton's side or Edwards. A few came to us and Obama. There was certainly no majority moving to any one candidate!

A pre-arranged agreement as you suggest is ludicrous. Do you realize how difficult it would be to identify all the supporters of one group beforehand and persuade them to move en-masse to another group like this? Iowas precinct doors open at 6:30- the caucuses start at 7:00. These agents you're trying to conjure are working that crowd pretty quickly….

My experiences with these candidates in the weeks they spent here in Iowa? Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Bill Richardson are all honest individuals. What you're trying to imply is ridiculous.

Speaking for everyone who was out there that night and knows the truth…don't waste our time.

arthur   January 7th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

IF OBAMA WIN THE DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL

NOMINATION. I THINK THE REPUBLINCAN WILL

EASILY WIN THE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

WITH A WIDE MARGIN.

Isoprene   January 7th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

SHAME!!!!!! OBAMA. A candidates who says to be the change candidates and running hope politics, says an opponent campaign depressing. Come one Americans!!! We are smart. We cannot be folled by a cheap slogan like Change. Change is the cheapest slogan used by the worst politician in the world. It is because they want to exploit the frustration of the public, saying they will change everything. Never. If Omaha says he can bring change in washington, why doesn't he works four more years as a senator in washington and prove he is right. HE wont do that as he cannot bring any change. He is a liar just like any other smart politician. Lets not fall in his false hope and smart speeches. STOP OBAMA BEFORE HE TEARS THIS COUNTRY APART.

OMABA IS TRYING TO EXPLOIT THE AMERICANS FRUSTRATION FOR HIS POLITICAL BENEFITS. LET'S NOT TAKE A CHANCE.

STOP OBAMA

J7   January 7th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Obama will win in NH. I do not think the Republican will win in Nov. If the epublicans were manipulating the Polls, they would have Hillary ahead. I am going to canvass for Obama in SC. I think the electorates in Iowa and NH for giving hope a chance.

All of you people talking about experience, what impact have you felt delivered by Hillary. I have felt the passion of change from a candidate who dared to run and offer this country hope.

I just hope teh Democrats not do the Tax & Spend thingy on me.

I am Independent tire of the politics of exclusion and division. Supporting Obama is almost like supporting a third party run but this time it is timely, and successful.

I think he will be a President we can all be proud of and the world will respect.

Why Hillary is crying? Is she ashame of teh dirty politics she is trying to sling at Obama?

Chip Williams   January 7th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

After watching the debates Saturday and the forum on Sunday-none of the dems are anywhere near as inteligent or experienced as the other side. The dems are continually blaming Bush, talking our country into the gutter-there is no hope if you listen to any of them. The blame game is really tiring and I am just plain sick of the 4 stooges you got on the left.

I am not entirely happy with those on the right either-but honestly, who would you rather have fighting the islamo-facsists….Rudy or Obama.

Change-give me a break-the only one with experience at truly changing anything is Rudy and what he did to NYC-big change for the better.

Joan Butt   January 7th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

I've watched every televised debate, Republican and Democrat, and it is becoming increasingly clear that Hillary Clinton is the only candidate who consistently hits issues right on the mark. Obama is a nice guy, and I'm sure his philosophical positions and rhetorical comments have great appeal to those who are simply looking for "change for change sake". However, our country faces many devastatingly complex issues: Iraq/foreign relations, economic recession, dependence on foreign oil, the implications of global warming, and failing infrastructure across our nation. These serious problems will not be solved by those who have good intentions, but have no proven record of being able to "get the job done". Obama's snearingly voiced "you're likeable enough, Hillary" last night proves that his "nice guy" image is just that, an image. American can't survive another likeable, but incompetent President for the next four years…..we need Hillary far more than she needs us.

Peggy   January 7th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

I love this picture! Obama, Edwards and Richardson look like back-up singers for Hilary! I can almost hear the do-wops…

Patrick   January 7th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Um, a comment to Paul… Obama is not a Muslim (his father, while African, was an atheist and his mother did not practice religion). He identifies with the Church of Christ. Check your facts man and stop spreading false rumors. And yes, I agree that Billary's campaign is sadly depressing. While he doesn't have the most experience, Obama is still a far better choice than her.

Linda   January 7th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

I hate watching the news and seeing the media joing in the on the Obama band wagon. They act like he is the next coming of Christ. Not even two states done with their primaries and some of the media jerks are calling the end results. Maybe none of our votes count now, before we even vote.

I like the comments that have been posted here. Is not it great that we can voice all of our opinions without fear of being shot??

Michelle   January 7th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Post: The people that Obama appeal to are the smarter younger crowd. They look at people for whom they are. You may call them naive but look at what they had to grow up with A current president that lied to them, started an unnecessary war, infringed on their rights, allowed the sub prime mess to occur, and pandered to corporate interests (healthcare & oil industries).

If they are of voting age, they remember Clinton as well, so they do have comparisons, by the way.

nomad fr: oak cliff   January 7th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

rw or mark from columbus ohio did u ever think about her not wanting to hang around the men in the picture above because she is a hateful feminist. you are going to help her and the hateful feminest movement that she supports continue to destroy our country's men. she is a predator you moron…. check out the statutes she endorsed that erode the rights of men….

Jaymes Garcia   January 7th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

When Voting for President as American's we must do the responsible act and vote for the Person that has the Know how and experience, What experience does Obama think he has? Common people the only choice for the democrats is Hillary Clinton she is the only one who can with the General Election she is the only one with the know how of being able to run this Country. The Clintons braught this country out of debt once what makes anyone think they cant do it again!! If we do not improve our econonmy so many more people will be without jobs, healthcare and even a place to live for that matter. We need a Woman President for once she can lead this country into a better future!!! If Obama gets the Democratic Nomination we will be stuck with another repbulican in office.. Obama does not have what it takes to Win… If he Wins the Democratic Nomination I will have no choice but to jump the fence and Vote Republican I cant chance leaving my country to someone who would actually give false hope. Its good to have hope but common things cant change if The Congress and Senate dont allow him to change and we all know that is what will happen if he is elected we need to depend on what we know can get done.. If this were a perfect world and Obama could change it hell I would be on it but lets get back to reality already . New Hampshire voters need to Support Hillary Clinton or they will end up with another Republican in the End and the same mistakes of the Bush election will begin all over again we cannot afford to go any further with False Hopes..

Mark McConville   January 7th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Until this year, when has it ever been suggested that