January 8, 2008
Posted: 11:15 PM ET

MANCHESTER, New Hampshire (CNN) – Solid support from registered Democrats and
women were crucial Tuesday as Sen. Hillary Clinton reversed her third-place finish in last week's Iowa caucuses to take a narrow victory over rival Barack Obama in New Hampshire's presidential primary, results from exit polls suggest.

With 72 percent of precincts reporting, CNN projected Clinton the winner of the first-in-the-nation primary with 39 percent of the vote to Obama's 36.

Self-styled independents, who made up 43 percent of all voters polled, said they voted for Obama by a margin of 43 percent to 31 percent for Clinton.

But Clinton was ahead of Obama 45 percent to 34 percent among those who said they were registered Democrats. Those voters made up a majority — 54 percent — of all those respondents.

Clinton also claimed the majority of women's votes, according to the polling. That's in contrast to last week's Iowa caucuses, in which Obama surprised observers by stealing the female vote from Clinton.

According to the exit polls, Clinton had a sizable lead over Obama among women, 47 percent to 34 percent. Analysts say that shift was crucial to the Clinton turnaround.

"If I had a single word, the word would be 'women,' " said CNN political analyst Bill Schneider. "She got the women back."

College graduates, who made up 29 percent of the electorate, opted narrowly for Clinton — 38 percent to Obama's 37 percent, according to the polling.

Those polled who called themselves very liberal or moderate went with Clinton over Obama — although by less than two percentage points in each — and those who said they are somewhat liberal were evenly split.

Pundits also were citing the role of former President Bill Clinton in helping his wife recover from what pre-primary polls were suggesting was a deficit of 9 percentage points to Obama in New Hampshire.

The former president spent Tuesday in Hanover, home to Dartmouth College — where Obama had been expected to win handily.

"They dispatched him to the area that Obama was surging," said CNN analyst Donna Brazille, who managed former Vice-President Al Gore's campaign in 2000. "I think it had the effect of tamping down Obama support and giving Senator Clinton a real reason to come back in this race."

New Hampshire was considered crucial to Clinton's campaign. If Obama had been able to sweep Iowa and New Hampshire — after months of Clinton being considered the frontrunner among Democrats — it could have given him powerful momentum going into future primaries.

Filed under: New Hampshire


Ingvar Strom   January 10th, 2008 7:54 am ET

Had this happened in a former Soviet republic such as Ukraine or Georgia the Western world would have cried foul doubting the election process. I have to assume it has to do with big-time media manipulation making Clinton’s lead a few weeks back of 15 percent in the polls turned in to narrow victory looking like a comeback. Meantime Obama is perceived like a loser while getting 36 % of the vote (only losing by 3 % to Clinton) in a mainly white state with lots of hardcore liberal Democrats. But it goes beyond perception. The media fraud in failing to report how things actually
stood could have persuaded many Obama supporters not to bother voting and independents choosing to cast a vote for McCaine.

Another thought. It is strange that the USA media is criticizing Putin for trying to find loopholes to extend his rule beyond the intention of the constitution while not raising the same issue when it comes to the Clintons.

But to me the most disappointing is that Clinton won despite her arrogant gesture to run thereby (should she eventually win the general election) denying a future truly deserving woman to become the first female President on her own merits. I still hope the American people sooner rather than later will put an end to this form of Banana Republic politics.

Normally I would not care so much for a Democratic primary but after years of harmful Republican (Bush) borrow and spend policies I’m afraid the country is right to be ready for good old tax and spend Democrats.

Ann   January 9th, 2008 9:50 pm ET

I do not agree that women are a force behind Hillary. I have discussed this with many, many people and get the same answer: Women dislike Hillary and will not vote for her. How can so many opposites exist?

Matt   January 9th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I believe in experience in every field of life. Since when experience doesn't count?
What matters is experience with the positive attitude. If we are setting experience is nothing I think we need to advise all those HR people working hard to get the right person fro the job! Obama onestly experience really matters!!

bets   January 9th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

come on 2 percent ahead of Obama.

Hillary shed crocodile tears, bc, she knew she was a wash out… what an actress..

Hillary, don't you know, REAL women, don't cry…

cause and effect   January 9th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Some woman just like the power thing, they don't care whom they back as think they are going to get more power. Instead of getting the right way.
Clinton did the wrong they it was a play she was doing, she knew she was going to loss, so she called in the big guns and big money to help her get it too, she dosen't care for the poor of USA or the lower mid classes either.

She wants the woman whom make big money.. I do think think their is one person whom should have won this election was Edwards and Obama, though truelth and not lies from Clinton, oh, they are calling me names, she is big bussiness and big lobbies too.

My husband I don't live above our means and never have either and we can't any help from our state at all, because of Bushes people. and our senates and reps of house, because after all the poor should get nothing at all.

We made last year 8,000.00. We have pay our health care insurance and etc. We haven't food or money to buy heat for our home no money, my husband did spc/qa work and he is great at it too, until Bush got into office and everything got shipped oversea's and amercian companies know that they could get away with not having programs in places. Because big bussiness dosen't care about that part of it. They want the big money and big returns instead.

I have fibrmylia and I can't get SS I am not sick enough, I also have asthma and hypertenion, when I got hurt on job WC said, I wasn't sick enough and I was making it all up. I worked a local hospital in this area isn't a great or careing hospital in this area, trust me ownly if you are from this town they don't want to hear you at all.

Clinton did nothing for me. She dosen't listen at all.. She is just like being a GOP in a dress and that why she dosen't really care about people like me and husband and work all our lives for what to be all taken away from us. Raised our children and even sent one son of to Iraq and came back with PTSD and what she really doing for VETS of this war.

WE NEED HELP NOW and WE NEED OUR JOBS to come back to this country and WE NEED TO THINK of PEOPLE OF USA first.

SHE can bring down price of oil tooo

Bob, Seattle   January 9th, 2008 11:52 am ET

Don't underestimate the lift that was given to Hilliary due to her showing of strength and deportment in handling Bill O'Reilly at one of her campaign stops the day before the primary. Dems hate O'Reilly. Indeed, this contributed to her surprising, unforecasted result.

Jersey Girl   January 9th, 2008 11:49 am ET

It's about time the women got out there and show their strengh. That's why we never got anywhere because we never stick together. Let's face it, Bush has been a disgrace. Let's give a strong very smaart woman a chance. WOMEN UNITE
OPEN YOUR EYES let's get in control of this country. I know you all know that a woman can do a better job. Think out of the box.

sly   January 9th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Congrats Hillary ^^

bye bye Osama…oops, I mean Obama

Karen Morreale   January 9th, 2008 11:37 am ET

What is the deal here ??? Do I detect that the CNN people were dragging their feet at showing Hillary's popularity ?? I got the distinct feeling they were rooting for Obama to win. Well all you CNN Obama fans, she won…..deal with it. I think she is the smartest candidate by far and she does have much more experience than he does. I don't think he is tough enough, we can't have a President cause he is a nice guy.

Tyler in Raleigh, NC   January 9th, 2008 11:34 am ET

All it took was tears and talking about hair. That while bashing hope and others, claiming you are the party of positive at the same time.

Wow…. how easily people are duped.

Bill Clinton walks out there and talks like he is running. Hey women, vote for my wife! She is so great, I lied to her and cheater on her. But forget that and everything else… she is better than a fairy tale.

Women for Obama not Clinton   January 9th, 2008 11:30 am ET

So, let me see….if I cry for Obama will every woman vote for him? Because I will cry a river! Come on women what is wrong with all you Mrs. Clinton fans, please wake up! Did a few break downs from out former first lady change you? I'm so bored of her and Edwards. OBAMA TAKE IT HOME ALL THE WAY!!!!!!

vince, Phoenix AZ   January 9th, 2008 10:57 am ET

First and foremost, Congratulations to Senator Clinton. It's presidential politcs, and she did what she had to do to make this comeback.

But a HUGE second….. FINALLY….. FINALLY…. YOU WOMEN UNDERSTAND WHA T IT IS LIKE TO HAVE YOUR MOTIVES QUESTIONED… FOR EXAMPLE…
(and most infamously) "Oprah and African-Americans support Obama because he is black"… Now I read several posts fuming because it is being said that the women voted for her because she is a woman. (the implication being, not because she is the best candidate)….

Sucks, doesn't it?

enjoy this brief foray into our world.

James   January 9th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Guess all you Clinton haters get to hate a little more. … She is clearly a strong candidate. I like Obama too, but I have yet to hear how he would bring about the CHANGE. He is a brilliant speaker, probalby would be an excellent Baptist preacher, but I don't know what he has done and that is why I probably will not vote for him. You can say you are an outsider and you are going to do things different, but the reality is the people that will be there waiting for the next president will have an awful lot to say about that. … just ask Jimmy Carter about his first and only term as president. Clinton on the other hand is hated by the Republicans and some Democracts as well, but she has produced positive results. I think if some of you put your emotions aside and use your common sense you would clearly see that she is the stronger candidate. Vote with the knowledge, not with the Oprah fantasy. … When Oprah says it it becomes right? I think not. … if you believe that then surely you think Dr. Phil is a genius. The bottom line is Oprah has one vote, don't give her yours without looking at the facts.

Anne Boyle   January 9th, 2008 9:09 am ET

Hillary Clinton's abilities far surpass any other candidate to lead this country back to its greatness and redeem ourselves with the rest of the world. The criticism she has withstood far surpasses that of all other candidates and yet she continues. A very sincere question from a woman voter, punched through the shield that all candidates must have to weather the abusive side of politics. And then we saw inside Hillary Clinton. She was more beautiful than I have ever seen her and reinforced my belief that she is best qualified to be our president.

Carol, Buckingham, PA   January 9th, 2008 8:56 am ET

I am a woman and I would NOT vote for Hillary just because of her gender.

Actually, I don't want a female in the White House. Women, including Hillary, tend to be too emotional, too moody. Hillary has already demonstrated this. She's up one day; down the next. Tears, then smiles, then tears, then the smiles.

Forget about her.

Duncan, Richmond, VA   January 9th, 2008 8:40 am ET

I am amazed that gender comes into this. Clinton is a hard core politician, which means gender is irrelevant. No words come out of her mouth that has not been discussed in great detail by a huge team of people. If people truly believe that Clinton being a woman means something, then you know very little about politics.

Take a look at her policies. They are all BS statements. "Hillary has proposed an Apollo Project-like program dedicated to achieving energy independence" … how? who? costs? who pays? How does that trickle down to the consumer if the corporations ignore the project? Bush has been making such statement for 7 years, where are the results?

Like all the politicians, they are wishy washy statements with no substance and the American voter is failing for the same stuff time and time again. You want change and yet vote for the same. Pathetic. If you want real change from a candidate who has detailed exactly what he will do, then Ron Paul is the only viable candidate.

Seam, Philly PA   January 9th, 2008 8:40 am ET

Women that vote for Hillary have a blurred vision of a true leader. There's no crying in Politics, especially fake tears. Clinton is an emotional wreck, and she will be challenged feverishly by terrorists. I pray for this country's safety if Hillary is elected.

JJT   January 9th, 2008 7:53 am ET

Dems Rejoice! - We have a formidable group of candidates to choose from this year.
Regardless of which candidate ropes the nomination, a win in November will be a significant improvement over the current administration. I admire Hillary's tenacity and determination and Obama/Edwards ability to speak directly to the angst of a nation. Still undecided - but am enjoying watching democracy in action.

Ressa from Florida   January 9th, 2008 7:38 am ET

And I agree with Jim from NC, I'm tired of the same ole same ole.
No more Bush, Clinton and deadbeats!

Susan   January 9th, 2008 7:31 am ET

My God, next time Hillary whines don't get sucked into her wimpering…..I don't want more Clinton's running our country……..get rid of this Dynasty once and for all….Don't voters get that………OBAMA ALL THE WAY! and not just younger voters are jumping on his wave and riding it ….it will be a tsunami wave when he hits other states…he is just warming up ………you just wait…………Hillary will be toast and yesterdays news…………

Jamie, MI   January 9th, 2008 6:26 am ET

I think that every Democrat out there out to realize that Obama is the one candidate who is truly the most viable option in a general election. Sen. Clinton has megatives that make the Republican candidates' mouths water. Raise them 4%, and you beat her. Obama draw in independants, and a lack of experience is a reason that hasn't stopped us from electing two presidents back-to-back who had absolutely no national experience before being elected. If Democrats want to win the presidency, I think they ought to give Obama a second look.

Jim, Burlington NC   January 9th, 2008 6:06 am ET

Not another Bush.

Not another Clinton.

Not ever, ever again.

I don't want the same two families running our country for 28 straight years, 10% of our history, no sane person would.

Dynasties are not part of the American way, we need fresh faces running the Executive branch, not the same old players…

Joyce Allen   January 9th, 2008 6:05 am ET

Sometthing good came of the NH primaries. Hillary's secret weapon; expect Hillary to be more emotional and spend the rest of the year crying. All the women are going to become emotional and start giving her tissues, I mean votes.

Joyce Allen   January 9th, 2008 5:59 am ET

The women in NH made an emotional choice. Next time Hillary cries, give her a tissue, not a pacifier, I mean not a primary.

Gracey Knowle, Dallas   January 9th, 2008 4:15 am ET

I hope she appreciated the "good job Hilly" phone call from George W.

Amy   January 9th, 2008 3:00 am ET

Women can make a difference and I am glad NH women did. Thank you! Its not about electing a woman President, its about showing that our perseverance and hard work and dedication (for our families, jobs, society) pays off. I really hope Hillary will continue to receive women support.

I was unpleasantly surprised to see that among university educated people, those with post-graduate degrees favored Obama and not Clinton by 12%. I suspect this reflects the fact that more men are likely to have masters and PhDs while women have only bachelors, and the very educated women become quite jealous of any other educated woman's success. Too bad ladies, you are doing your jobs, let Hillary do hers.

Margarita, Los Angeles   January 9th, 2008 2:29 am ET

HEY MISS OPRAH…. GUESS WHAT? YOU CAN'T BUY AN ELECTION!!! THIS RUGRAT WOULD NOT EVEN BE ON THE RADAR WITHOUT YOUR PLUG… THANK GOD EVEN YOUR OWN FANS TURNED ON YOU… SOMEBODY READ THE BACKLASH ON OPRAHS BLOGS… ITS NOT GOING DOWN THAT WAY OPRAH. BESIDES BILL WAS OUR FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT SO GIVE IT UP.

Wiseone   January 9th, 2008 2:06 am ET

This is just the beginning.Hillary was able to confuse few of the people of NH to win sympathethic votes but even if she cries ocean,she can not deceive the people of South Carolina.America is tired of the Bushes and Clintons.We need and deserve a new face, a uniter, a person who can bring a genuine change.This person is Barrack Obama.Hillary claims 35 years of experience, but if she and her husband could not change the country in 35 years, what would she do if she wins and becomes the president for 4 years.We need to open our eyes and face the truth so that this country can move forward again.I urge all Americans to have a deep thought and contibute to the sucess of this wind of change.In a political sagacity, man s not a garrulous asperity but a gambolical jungoism

Samson   January 9th, 2008 2:03 am ET

I like Obama and his HOPE speeches,however fine speeches are not going to undo the terrible things inflicted on this great nation by George Bush et al. We need someone who can lead from the day.Congrats Senator Clinton.

curiosityhasme   January 9th, 2008 1:57 am ET

My faith has been restored. Thank God for the intelligent voters (especially women) in New Hampshire. I'm so impressed with the way they rose up against the media sabotage and unfair treatment of Hillary Clinton - I think I'll take my next vacation there. She is giving them facts and the truth - not some bunch of cadences and choruses of 'we shall overcome'. The outlandish comparisons to JFK, RFK, and MLK is an insult to their memories. Talk about audacity. Obama's honeymoon needs to be over already. The media needs to go back to REPORTING, not commenting on things they know nothing about. The long-time commentators need to heed the advice they give legislators that have been around awhile - take a long, extended vacation until the year's out, and let us have our country back. The airwaves should not be for propaganda in the United States.

bebem1965   January 9th, 2008 1:30 am ET

I would most hope for a Clinton /Obama ticket for the Dem nomination because its a refreshing change and would be historic too!! Am I hoping for too much? It would certainly be a very healing process for these two to be on a winning ticket on the road to the White House! I certainly do not want more young soldiers to die in the useless war that is being waged in Iraq. Its about time we have a true government who feels for the people genuinely and want to bring the country together! The NH primaries have shown us that economy is a great issue with people so lets hope the next primary is also a good one for the best candidate!!

angela   January 9th, 2008 12:51 am ET

I was a little girl with big dreams, a daughter of a working mother, a working mother myself and a wife. YOU ARE The Agent of Hope / The Promise of Change.
Thank you Hillary

Marcelo - Albuquerque NM   January 9th, 2008 12:48 am ET

My fellow Obama supporters, I understand your frustration and disappointment at the recent news from NH but I think ALL OF US need to stay positive. PLEASE do not fall into the selfish trap of becoming negative against other candidates.

The whole point of Obama's campaign is to erase the hate in politics and to bring the best out of everyone. This goes for the Hilary and Edwards supporters too.

Remember, whoever wins the nomination, lets all support them and not make the same mistake the current administration has made. Let's bury the hatchet with the republicans and work together to improve our economy, save the environment, increase the opportunities for the needy and make the world a better place, with less hatred.

Lynzey in Des Moines   January 9th, 2008 12:39 am ET

I am a young, middle-class woman from Des Moines, Iowa and working my way through law school. I don't know how I'll pay off my loans when I'm finished or where I'll find the money to pay for health care when my coverage runs out on my 25th birthday in two weeks. I am troubled by the results of our caucus and feel compelled to reach out to the young, first-time, or undecided voters in New Hampshire.

Hillary Clinton gets it — this isn't a pep rally or election for student body president. It's for President of the United States of America. I saw Barack Obama during his first stop in Iowa and I WAS fired up. But when I met Obama after the event, he only stopped and turned to talk to me when I said I was a former staffer of a politico in Iowa. I walked out that night disappointed. When I met Hillary Clinton, she listened to my story and was only interested in what troubled me — not who I was or which student groups I could bring to her campaign.

I'm afraid Barack Obama's feel-good message is just that: the modern-day opiate of the masses.

New Hampshire — choose wisely. The pep rally in Iowa is over. Hillary Clinton's tears reflect what those of us that have worked in politics already know: hope is not enough. It's part of it, to be sure. But experience navigating the minefields is what will sustain that message. I suggest you all witness the phenomenon that is Barack Obama. He is no doubt an effective orator and will be a critical part of spreading the message about America's desire to re-build its image. But I urge you to vote for the woman that is recognized and respected around the world. Hillary Clinton will be the well-known, experienced and strong leader that America is in desperate need of to actually change our image around the world.

A R, Cedar Rapids, IA   January 9th, 2008 12:30 am ET

This race was too close for a supposedly "inevitable" Hillary to claim victory over Obama. That is pure spin.

Hillary is probably still crying as they both have the same amount of delegates, Obama and all of his supporters are still the true winners of this one in NH.

The main deviating factor I saw, besides women voters, were there were more Independents voting on the Republican side for McCain. He has a strong standing in NH but I don't think that will be a factor in SC. Again, congrat still to Obama on this one. A 2% difference between him in Clinton in NH and she calls it a comeback. Wow. LOL!!

Angel   January 9th, 2008 12:28 am ET

It's funny how CNN wouldn't call it when it was so obvious at 54% reporting in. AP called it first, ouch! So desperate to hang on to the last string of that empty suit Barack. Scary.

stan pitts pa   January 9th, 2008 12:24 am ET

voters this is a democracy, not a monarchy, arent we tired of the bush-clinton-bush- dynasty!

****A woman in SC who will NOT vote for Hillary****   January 9th, 2008 12:21 am ET

Barack CAN make a CHANGE. He has changed his opponent already. Hillary has changed her tactic but she has not. She even shed a tear for us. She is a great politician and she is playing the game! The new Hillary is not genuine but it does prove that Barack can CHANGED America. He has made her CHANGE her game plan. (Note to Hillary: We are starter than that.)

Barack…you are right we have got to begin somewhere.

Georgette Skiadas   January 9th, 2008 12:20 am ET

WOMEN HAVE HAD TO FIGHT FOR EVERYTHING THAT WE HAVE. THE RIGHT TO VOTE,EQUALITY IN THE WORK PLACE ,GOING TO PRIVATE MILITARY SCHOOLS ATTENDED ONLY BY MEN AND NOW THE BIGGEST ONE OF ALL- THE PRESIDENCY. IF THAT'S NOT CHANGE ,I DON'T KNOW WHAT IS!!! WOMEN SHOULD ALL BE RALLYING AROUND HILARY AND GIVING HER THE SUPPORT SHE DESERVES. WE AS WOMEN SHOULD BE EXTATIC ABOUT HILARY. THIS IS IS NOT A TIME FOR JEALOUSY THIS A TIME TO CELEBRATE. HILARY CAN DO MUCH BETTER AT THIS THAN ANY OF THE OTHER CANIDATES BECAUSE SHE IS MORE QUALIFIED AND SHE HAS MORE EXPERIENCE. SHE KNOWS HER WAY AROUND THE BIG D.C. AND SHE KNOWS WHAT THE PEOPLE WANT AND NEED.UNFORTUNATELY SHE DOESN'T HAVE AN OPERA BEHIND HER TO RALLY THE SUPPORT FOR HER ,BUT SHE SHOULD HAVE THE WOMEN OF THIS GREAT COUNTRY BEHIND HER HELPING HER ALL THE WAY TO THE WHITE HOUSE . NOW THAT'S CHANGE!!!

Robert l Beaumont jr   January 9th, 2008 12:14 am ET

WE NEED Hillary in DC TO SHOW THE MEN HOW TO GET THE CHANGES THAT WE NEED THE WOMEN TOUCH IT WORKS ALL THE TIME.

prophet Stan   January 9th, 2008 12:08 am ET

THANK YOU FOR YOUR REPORTING

Sherry   January 9th, 2008 12:06 am ET

I forgot. "Behind every good man is a WOMAN."

I love you HILLARY!!!!

Ann Aloha, PA   January 9th, 2008 12:02 am ET

The Independent voters have spoken, we require our candidate to support our concerns, we demmand our candidate to listen to our issues and we difinitely want our candidate to recognize that every voter counts…
Go Equality Go Fairness
Go INDEPENDENTS

Sherry   January 9th, 2008 12:01 am ET

Well…..

I am so glad that the people in New Hampshire got it RIGHT. Discourse is fine. When it comes down to it, men have ran this country for hundreds of years. "What a fine mess you have gotten us into".

All I am saying is give HILLARY a chance. We will not be disappointed.

Chuck   January 9th, 2008 12:01 am ET

"Clinton comaback"?

Come back from what? the polls? Clinton was heavily favored to win New Hampshire and barely did - but somehow the spin doctors make that a 'comback'.

Obviously, some quarters are counting on the gullibility or naivete of the American people to believe that somehow barely hanging on is coming back from being the front runner.

Gil - California   January 8th, 2008 11:57 pm ET

It is nice to hear that Hillary "got the women back". It is nice to hear that they aren't voting for her because she is a woman. It is nice that those that voted for her believed her "its so hard sometimes" sniffles. Enjoy the ride, it will only make the fall even harder.

Leonard K Collins   January 8th, 2008 11:56 pm ET

You go girl. Nobody but her can run it all, she got backup…..Bill helpin all the way. I wonder, the wives are always the first lady, could Bill be the First man haha, both of em in one family will be addressed, mr and mrs president , thats a new one which will always go down in history as the first, forget the other two, daddy and daddy jr presidents. For Hilary…..hooooo rahhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. Cause the guys know she'll get em out of there, so they are all phoning home to there ladies and saying make sure you vote for hilary, whe want out!!!!!!!!!!!

To the rest of you,

Good luck your gonna need it…..Hilary got all the ladies behind her besides the card carriers.

Michael Lederman   January 8th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

As a Democrat, this is a dark night. I may be in tonight's minority, but this is a no brainer. For those in this country frozen by fear. For those driven by which candidate presents the best chance at beating the Republican in November. For those praying for a new direction for America…..this is heartbreaking.

Hillary is not the answer. Hillary will not change the perception of who we are on the world stage. Hillary will not slow the growing hatred that boils. Hillary has too many debts still to be paid. I would love to see a woman President. Hillary is the wrong woman.

For America. For our children. For an end to our fears and a beginning to our hopes.
Barack Obama for President.

Peace,

Michael

Tom Davie   January 8th, 2008 11:53 pm ET

What the heck is this? An UNBIASED CNN article actually giving Clinton her due ?

No spin to slide in that Obama rules anywhere? Wow.

Eileen Fullenwider   January 8th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

Remember that three states have spoken….47 to go.

Jane, TX   January 8th, 2008 11:51 pm ET

Hillary doesn't have the 'woman vote'…she has the 'intelligent woman' vote. HILLARY 08!!!

Pete, Austin, Texas   January 8th, 2008 11:51 pm ET

You know I was one who advocated respect when it came to women's issues. But tonight that went out the window and two things I have learned–one that it is pathetic that women are voting for a candidate because she is a woman. Heaven forbid we should focus on what is best for the country and not that the candidate has breasts and large hips. The second thing is that the American electorate are crazier and dumber than I thought.

My goodness–20 years of Bush and Clinton–we have one of the most power hungry, egomaniacal, and lying individuals running for office and she is getting the votes. I am so tired of Bushes and Clintons–I guess the good old USA is still wanting more misery and the same old gridlock in Washington. America–I guess we deserve what we get. But then again the Democrats truly do not want the White House back if they nominate Hillary and New Yorkers were too stupid to figure out that they got used by Hillary to springboard her power lust for the presidency. Oh this country has so much to learn.

maxine waldon   January 8th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

just listened to the democratic comments….& I use that term loosely. I haven't
decided my vote yet. I am very confused when hearing their speeches. I like the "we concept" from Obama and all the changes seem good. I believe Hillary believes it too…because if you listened to her tonite…she did what Obama suggested. She CHANGED HER IDEAS from What I will do to what We can do. She needs to get her act together…She's trying to reinvent herself…I don't think she retooled her campaign …I think she saw what was working for Obama…I'm not sure either if I want my vote to be a "DOUBLE VOTE" for her & Bill Clinton & their group of croonies. Also. I don't want to vote for her JUST because she's a WOMAN….RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT. I want the BEST PERSON who will help lead others in GOV. TO HELP US THE VOTERS….PS I'm glad Hillary finally QUIT SAYING WHAT SHE WAS GOING TO DO & LISTENED TO OBAMA approach on the "WE CAN". ….What would she have said if OBAMA didn't lead her in good ideas & thoughts. IF HILLARY WINS THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINATION…CAN SOMEONE START A WRITE-IN VOTE FOR OBAMA

Randal   January 8th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

Yessssss…She is back. We love you Hillary. I respect Obama, but he needs to get some experience behind him. I would soooo love to see a Clinton/Obama ticket. That would be AWESOME for democrats!!!

Carl Ward - Washington, Mo.   January 8th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

I am not surprised that very few talking heads have considered that the media and political pundits changed the course of the democratic primary today by their unfair treatment of Mrs. Clinton since Iowa. I am willing to bet that many men and women in New Hampshire got sick of all the negative press and wanted send you all a message that we think you are also a part of the problem that needs to be changed. You are supposed to report the news, not change the course of history. Think about it. Carl Ward, Washington, Missouri.

Brian   January 8th, 2008 11:46 pm ET

I think Hillary's turn around can be attributed to a perfectly timed and canned sniffle which played perfectly to a female base. It also astounds me that in a country that limits itself to two parties we are looking to limit ourselves to two families, 28 years of Bushes and Clintons, 43 years if she wins. That is appalling to me. Don't get me wrong I think Bill was a great president but change this year needs to be about more that the D or R behind your name.

Clinton boasts a ready to go, day one experience. I'm sorry Miss but Bill Richardson has a better resume than you do. I don't think a resume equal’s leadership, what really matters is the ability to inspire, to challenge and to instill confidence that we, "WE" can be more. Great leadership is what inspires greatness. Obama eloquently summed up the American Spirit as "Yes WE Can", all I hear from Hillary is I, I, I. Obama is truthfully the first Presidential candidate I have ever been inspired by. America - now is the time for change, now is the time for true uniting leadership, now is the time to believe America can look forward with anticipation not back with reminisce.

kay webb   January 8th, 2008 11:45 pm ET

I will vote for HIllary Clinton not because she is a woman but because she is a brilliant woman. She has paid her dues both professionally and personally and deserves to be our president. Bill Clinton is an asset to her and why not the other candidates have their spouses by their sides for support. Bill's experience will be a great help.

roberto belleville,nj   January 8th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

i knew she was the winner

Katy   January 8th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

Let us not forget that this was by no means a mandate vote. I am a middle-aged, single, working mother trying to pay for college for my two children while over 1/4 of my monthly income goes to insurance premiums. I don't feel that Hillary "Rodham" Clinton represents my interests. She is on the payroll of two many special interests to be interested in me.

We Love Hillary!!!!   January 8th, 2008 11:42 pm ET

where are all the financed BANK ROLLED obama bloggers?????!!!!!!! they are going home in bus loads…..and GO AWAY OPRAH, WE CAN'T BE BOUGHT!….. NH has spoken……. and so will the rest of the country on Super Tuesday.

WE NEED TO DEFEND OUR COUNTRY FROM OUR IDEALS AND STRENGTHS… AND MAKE IT A BETTER WORLD THAN THE ONE WE HAVE INHERITED…HILLARY IS NOT A STATUS QUO BUT A VISION TO A BETTER NATION, regardless……

Thankfully, I will sleep better tomorrow…………because America will choose wisely.;

M.Northup   January 8th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

I can't stand how the media is claiming she won just because of woman voters…that's so sexist. God forbid she won a primary because she is the best cadidate.

Anonymous   January 8th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Go hillary!

Mike M.   January 8th, 2008 11:36 pm ET

Lets not forget the 16,000 plus votes that went towards Rep. Ron Paul. I think it is a safe presumption that many were independent, and many of those voters would most likely voice Sen. Obama as their second choice, enough that could have made up the difference.

The media and pollsters underestimating Rep. Paul is also a likely factor in the poll numbers being so wrong the hours leading up to the primary.

cheryl   January 8th, 2008 11:36 pm ET

I can't believe that people voted for Hillary just because of a few tears - it struck me more like a petulant child who wasn't getting her own way. I am extremely irritated by her and everyone else that thinks I will vote for her just because i am a female - I will vote for teh person I who I think will be the best president regardless of their sex or race or religion. Her comments on on suddenly being about change and that her being a woman would be the biggest change has to be one of the stupidest comments she's made. I liked her a lot more before the elections started - I don't like the way she now sounds like Guiliani trying to scare us into voting for her.

heather   January 8th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

Seriously, what is wrong with the women of the United States, and the men too for that matter.
How can any self respecting liberal woman cast their vote for an educated supposedly "independant" woman like Hillary. She stood by her man like a country western singer while he cheated on her right in front of her. She smiled and acted like it was ll okay.
If any one of your friends' husbands was cheating on her the way Bill did to Hillary and they stayed with him, you would lose all respect for her.
And what is all this she says about chnage?? What you mean change from the war in Iraq that you voted for? You mean change from the fast track to a recession that we're on partly due to the war you voted for? How can she expect us to vote for chnage in a candidate whose votes we are trying to bring change from??
Obama voted no on the war. If she had and then pursuaded all the people she is supposedly so influential over to vote no as well, we would not be in this mess to begin with.
Not to mention that every man and woman that votes for Hillary is really voting to put a republican in office. We all know this country is divided 50/50 and no republican would touch her with a 50 foot pole.
Obama is the only democratic candidate who could actually beat a republican.
Do us all a favor and VOTE OBAMA!!!!

Jim Bethlehem , Pa   January 8th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

It is not that hard to figure out, really. The polls themselves were the downfall of Obama. People want to see there vote count. When it looked like Obama had a sizable lead over Clinton many independents went over to McCain..TO MAKE THEIR VOTES COUNT..They did. It handed Clinton a shocking victory. The polls probably were not actually that far off when they were taken, but it was people's response to those polls that brought about the actual results..

CaliMom   January 8th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

I am a woman and a die hard Dem whatever that means and I REFUSE TO VOTE FOR HILLARY CLINTON!

I have never missed an election in my 36 years, but I will vote for a McCain BEFORE I would vote for her!!!

Wait til California! We like our politicians to stand for something more than more of the same. Out here, Hillary does not have a chance against Obama or Edwards!!!

I'm counting the days…

Cathy   January 8th, 2008 11:33 pm ET

She got the women back — by displaying vulnerability?

Maybe it's because I'm more intelligent than the majority of my peers of the fair sex, but I didn't fall for that act for once second. I'm sorry, women of New Hampshire. You've been had. You fell for the oldest trick in the book.

Women like us — intelligent, strong-willed, and formidable — we don't cry, unless it's on cue. Most of us have mastered our weepy side by the time we're in our thirties, and only let it slip through when it is expedient to our purposes. It could be for something as petulant as not wanting to cook dinner, or in her case not wanting to lose another election.

I would like the woman who asked that question to come forward with her opinion on Hillary's reaction now that the election is over. Unless she was a planted question, such as the kind Hillary has been known to stoop too. Actually, I'd like to know that as well.

Donna Puckett   January 8th, 2008 11:33 pm ET

I am a 50 yr old female pediatrician who first met Bill Clinton @ my high school honor society induction when he was Arkansas' Atty General. Bill, and now Hillary, have been "retooling " and reinventing their collective voice since they first stepped in front of a microphone.

I am not Hillary's base- her egocentric remorse and emotive moment captured on camera is ludicrous when compared with the dispair faced by both John McCain and John Edwards in their lifetime

Ginny Ca   January 8th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

She led the entire evening, never once trailing Obama. Apparently, the New Hampshire Democrats and women voters did their homework, paid attention to substance over hype and did the right thing. Congratulations New Hampshire for getting it exactly right and restoring my faith in the American voters.

Michael   January 8th, 2008 11:31 pm ET

How can you call this a comeback. Before Iawo, she was supposed to win by a landslide. Then Obama wins IAWO, which nobody expected, I didnt expect him to win NH either. Obama should be the comeback king because he was never given a chance until last week. Before the news media starts crowning Hilary queen, lets see what the rest of the nation thinks.

R. Jones, MA   January 8th, 2008 11:30 pm ET

It was a great victory for Hillary. And for the Democrats. For the first time in history there is a viable female presidential candidate. And she is more viable than Obama. Obama may win on style but Hillary wins on substance. If this were a job interview and you compared resumes side by side without knowing the names of the candidates, Hillary is a no-brainer. Good thing that people realized that in New Hampshire.

Hillary has a better chance against John McCain than Obama does. Obama is still wet behind the ears. I can't imagine him competing against the elder statesman John McCain. Experience absolutely matters and Obama just doesn't have it.

MT   January 8th, 2008 11:29 pm ET

It is really pathetic that women fell for her tears..we will never get any respect this way if we are so easily manipulated.

Also really INTERESTING that ALL the polls were wrong.

Moving on….from a delegates standpoint, Obama gets the same number as her from NH so, Obama supporters, use this as some fuel to get yourselves fired up again!!!!

OBAMA '08

Muhammed, Detroit, Michigan   January 8th, 2008 11:28 pm ET

It seems like the 'fairy tale' is about to unravel. Americans are finally beginning to take a hard look at the people behind the speeches.!

Yeah Right   January 8th, 2008 11:28 pm ET

She cried, women felt bad, men knew she is a fake and voted Obama. Anyone else not surprised?

Erik   January 8th, 2008 11:27 pm ET

Hillary has cried once in 35 years. It just so happened to be the other night when it looked as if she had been kicked out of the sandbox.
She was not crying for America, She was not crying at all.
If you believe the tears were genuine, maybe they came up as result of loosing the playground battle.

Poli   January 8th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

I wonder how many women and illegal aliens voted twice? :)

Steven Bengtson Sr.   January 8th, 2008 11:22 pm ET

Chicks rule!

Ann   January 8th, 2008 11:21 pm ET

I loved her speech to NH supporters. I AM a Democratic diehard. So I would agree with this article about this win in NH.

I do not want a Democratic unknown/untested/newbie to be who the Democrats put forth.

I want to be proud that the Democrats produce terrific politicians, terrific leaders, and have a long and great history of doing so.

We aren't "Oprah-robots."

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