January 12, 2008
Posted: 07:43 AM ET
 Obama is hitting the airwaves in two states that vote February 5.
Obama is hitting the airwaves in two states that vote February 5.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Democrat Barack Obama’s campaign has hit the air in two February 5 states.

In Arizona, a state with a large retirement population, Obama’s new television ad relates a story he tells often on the campaign trail, about his mother’s battle with cancer and mounting medical bills.

“My mother died of cancer at 53. In those last painful months, she was more worried about paying her medical bills than getting well. I hear stories like hers everyday,” says the Illinois senator in the 30-second spot, titled “Mother.”

“For 20 years, Washington has talked about health care reform and reformed nothing. I've got a plan to cut costs and cover everyone. But unless we stop the bickering and the lobbyists we will be in the same place twenty years from now. I'm Barack Obama and I approve this message because to fix health care we have to fix Washington.”

On Friday, the campaign announced the endorsement of Janet Napolitano, the state's popular Democratic governor.

In “Quiet,” Obama points to oil as both an environmental and a national security issue, and stresses his straight-talking credentials.

“I don't accept that we should be still sending eight hundred million dollars a day, part to hostile nations because of our addiction to foreign oil,” says Obama in the new 30-second ad, airing in California. “And in the bargain we're melting the polar ice caps.

“I went to Detroit to insist that we have to increase fuel efficiency standards. Now, I have to admit, the room got kind of quiet. We can't just tell people what they want to hear. We need to tell them what they need to hear. We need to tell them the truth.”

The ads are Obama’s first in states set to vote on February 5, the so-called Super Tuesday contests.

–CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: Arizona • Barack Obama • California


Nathan   February 6th, 2008 9:43 am ET

I hate Obama, his plan will not work. Hillary has a lot of experiance from Bill, and she can get the job done. Go Hillary!

Robin   February 6th, 2008 2:13 am ET

Okay we get that Obama was not for the war however, he wasn't in the position to decide. Who knows what he would have done. I guess we will have to take his word on it.

After listening to both Senator Clinton and Senator Obama, seems to me that they are both on the same page. However since Senator Clinton made her speech first sort of gave Senator Obama the edge to cover exactly the same agenda.

All I can say at this point is let the DEBATES BEGIN….and then Americans, you will see which candidate is real and has a true agenda to turn this great nation around!

Robin   February 6th, 2008 1:53 am ET

I have been watching the election results all night on CNN and I have noticed when talking about Senator Hillary Clinton she is referred to as " THE CLINTONS" but when they speak of Senator Obama he is referred to Obama and not the Obamas. Can you explain why you are doing this because it sounds very bias and condoscending. WHY are you doing that????

Jessica Price, California   January 28th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

Go Clinton!!!
Do you think Old Kennedy can see real change?

Michael   January 28th, 2008 1:13 am ET

Go Obama you have my vote. You seem to be the ONLY ONE to understand what our country really needs.

Desiree   January 27th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

The fact of the matter is that Hillary's and Edwards' health care plans are attacks on the poor. The words mandatory health care does not mean that the government will provide it to the people. In Hillary and Edwards' plan it means that everybody will have to pay for "affordable" health care. What this means is that people who can not afford another bill will have to buy insurance that may or may not cover their health care costs and if they don't they will incur fines they can not afford. For the people who have great jobs and make good money this is not a problem. For people barely getting by; I mean living pay check to pay check, another bill is not feasible. Think about it folks, anytime something is mandatory for everyone it means that the poor suffer and the only winners here is the health insurance companies. I wonder if the fact that Hillary Clinton receives so much money from health insurance companies has anything to do with her proposal. Mandatory health care is just another bill that poor people can't afford and it is a bad idea!

Kim   January 24th, 2008 10:51 am ET

I like Obama, but Clinton is the one with the experience at this point in history and will still bring the change America needs. She will sweep Super Tuesday and I would hope at that point both Obama and Edwards would step back and support the nominee so the bickering can stop.

Charles   January 23rd, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Obama's health care plan is the most realistic that can be achieved on a bipartisan level. Clintons plan failed in the 90's what makes you think it will work now. It will be heavily opposed by the republicans. I still think that Obama can get a lot more done in Washington than Hillary Clinton. She is a polarizing factor and you will be getting another Bush in the White house in terms of getting things done. She cannot she is too partisan.

John   January 16th, 2008 10:14 am ET

Read these quotes from Obama… Pure pandering. We need to cut costs and cover everyone??? come on??????

Dominic price   January 13th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

AMERICANS,

As an Irish person living in the Netherlands , it grieves me that your organisation is so blatantly biased against the Clinton political campaign. Your every day reports contain negative (though not all that obvious) issues about her campaign, but not so ,regarding her competitors in the race .
Why do you not openly declare you political alligiances?

Dominic Price

Dominic price   January 13th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Gentlemen/women,
As an Irish person living in the Netherlands, for me , it is blatant that your organisation is biased agains the Hilary Clinton campaigne. Your every day reports on her and her campaigne are suripticious negative . Why do you not come clean and declare your political interests and whom you support in this electiont.

Dominic Price

Len, Fallbrook, CA   January 13th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Pandering 101….

It is about time as Americans that we get off our dead butts and do what we should and could be doing for ourselves.

All three, Hillary, Obama, and John make great promises to give us everything for our votes with no idea how to pay for their pandering. They are the problem, not the solution. What is next? Free housing and food?

The Gov't should be used as a safety net for those in temp need but not a way of life for years, sometimes decades. Your success used to be based on how hard you work, not what you can suck from the Gov't. at someone's else expense.

Sooner or later those that work hard and pay the taxes they will raise will just stop working because half of what they earn goes to the Gov't.

Then what?

The buzzwords of free health care for all, foreign oil, and global warming are nice, but they are just buzzwords, not soultions.

Not one of them offer solutions, we hear "change", "tax the rich and greedy corporations", and protect the envioroment. Sounds nice, have a plan??

Hillary is experience by osmosis and will give 4 more years of infighing and investigaions.

Obama is a smooth talker, but has yet to list what will change and how.

John, rich trial lawyer committed to help the lower class, yeah right.

Ronald Nfor, NY   January 13th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Response to Stan Pitts Pa "Why he did not change his name to a Christian name if he is a Christian"

Please refer me to a text in the Bible that says you must change your name once you convert to Christianity. Please if you don't have anything better to say you can at least read the Bible before posting erroneous comments. Some of the people reading the blogs are actually better informed than you think.

Ronald Nfor, NY   January 13th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Eric, California, says, do not vote for Obama because he is a "fantasy" story. Sounds just like Clinton's "fairy tale" tirade. Last time I checked, America was a country where everyone can aspire to be what they want to be. An American- born citizen who has worked hard, done well in school and has been elected to the Illionois and US senates and running for president. To some it's just a fairy tale or a fantasy. So much for the ideals of America. To Leroy, I say check your soul for traits of racism before you endorse anyone.
Now to address Hillary's propects of winning the nomination and the general election, I don't doubt that she can achieve both feats. The question that remains unanswered is whether she will be able to govern once she wins. As a polarizing figure, I doubt she will be able to reach across the aisle and build the type of coalitions necessary to govern effectively. So all her campaign slogans may just die after she wins the white house. This is America where the president does not rule by edicts or decrees. She will need congress to make good on her promises if she wins. I am not sure the Republicans will cut her any slack.

David Holmberg   January 13th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Why not cool it down a bit. One of them will be the Democrats choice, no need of hatred. No need of talk about "false tears", "ice queen"

I wonder, though. If we would have had a female candidate that had been more or less an alcoholic into her 40's or if she had been woman with several affairs and broken men behind her, would she even have had the slightest chance of winning? You know the answer is no. We've had male presidents like that, but would never ever have a female president with such history. Women and men simply dont play this game equally.

However, now we have a strong and capable woman in the race with an allready strong adminstration behind her. And do not fool yourself, if we don't get Hillary now there wil be several decades until we get a strong female candidate again.

And Bill as the "Ambassador to the world", would be a great bonus.

no4fox   January 13th, 2008 11:47 am ET

why do they I mean the right wing news media keep calling obama african american he is half white that would make him a molato a half bread not if you want to call race why isnt he white american witch he is not i repeat to all news orgs. he is not african american call it what it is

William   January 13th, 2008 11:03 am ET

America is ready for the first Independent candidtae in nations history. Americans have lost trust with either party. They tried, hoped and voted democrats in 2006, to bring back the troops but they have lost the hope. Now the democrats have come up with another plan- Vote for change. This time Americans have become smart and they will not be fooled by this rhetoric. They will change the face of politics and create history.

Go Independents 2008

Robert Schuetz   January 13th, 2008 9:59 am ET

Barack Mohammed Obana ,? Why don't you straighten out your own state Goverment first.? YOU, like your Governor, do nothing , let the infa stucture down.

Now your fantastic career. You had no respect for our Generals, or what they have to say. All you know is bring the troops home. You will be no Roosevelt. Go back an read up on world war 2. What a difference 60 years makes.!!!

Back then no News paper would of dared point out certain weak spots in our cities, where bombs could be set off, to cause maxium damage.Men too old or on medically 4F lied about their age or conditionting,trying their best to join the military. Women doubled their work to keep thigs going at home.Hash rationing of everything from gasoline to soap , to butter was imposed, yet there was very little complaing.

Teachers started off each day of school with the pledge.Childer gathered pieces of medal , an sold it , an bought Saving stamps, then Bonds.

You would never got by with calling, one of our Generals, BE TRAY US , You May of learned to Salute our Flag during the Pledge.

No. President Bush did not make a mistake in his handling of terrorism. He made the mistake of beliving that we still had the courage an fortitude of our fathers.He belived that this was still the country that our fathers fought so dearly to preserve..

As of now you , don't show me as a leader, in time of crises..

I am an independent. I am a veteran. And I support my Country.

So we either win it or lose it- and you aint gonna like loosing it.

America is not at war, the Military is at war. America is at the mall

JACK ny, ny   January 13th, 2008 8:23 am ET

I am still waiting for response from Obama supporter who are chanting like maniac

since you know so much about Obama, May be you can explain why he voted PRESENT on key issues in senate.

Please stop all those lame excuses for this guy

Leroy   January 13th, 2008 6:21 am ET

I'm waiting on my bro to promise fried chicken on everybodys table on sunday and a watermelon chilling in the fridge before i endorse him……still waiting bro!!

Zoe Artemis   January 13th, 2008 3:57 am ET

Hillary Clinton's proposed Health Care plan failed miserably while she was first lady….she made no significant accomplishments as first lady and as a NY senator she has not accomplished anything whatsoever. I'm a New Yorker and I know, plus her opponet at the time was lightweight Rick Lazio…..all her so called experience translates into a big zero. She is brilliant to be sure, but she doesn't have the persona, the charisma or the charm to take it to the next level. She's is way to polarizing. I want a President that inspires — who inspires us the citizens to fight back, to organize and make things happen and make change. Barack will surround himself with the best and the brightest—-that's what a good President does…..he/she INSPIRES.

Leilani WA   January 13th, 2008 3:53 am ET

To Neel ny of NY: Barack Obama & wife Michelle graduated from Havard through hard work and sheer determination. They took out mostly student loans which they have since paid off. If you have any brains you'd know that you don't necessarily need alot of money to reach higher education.

Mary: Please think before you pen. Obama might be the best thing for America right now. He has my vote..

'Obama 08′…'kia ora'

Fredo   January 13th, 2008 3:51 am ET

When presidential power remains in the hands of just a few for so long, it is not good for any country!!! Check out what the historical facts are…..and begin asking yourselves whether this country can be an exception!! I think we should end the Bushian and Clintonian dynasties!!! And remember the success or failure of any president depends largely on the people they surround themselves with.
The rest of the world is watching!!! You can't teach an old ….any new tricks it would still be stuck in its old ways. Old ways are difficult if not impossible to change. Some candidates are taking American loyalty for granted!!! It's time to change the guards!!! Who divided and continue to divide Americans—– the so called experienced all knowing people. If the love this nation that much they would work to unite the people. I would not vote for anyone who seeks to divide us, in any way because UNITED WE STAND AS A NATION DIVIDE WE FALL!! got that

Glen   January 13th, 2008 3:26 am ET

If Obama becomes President, he will not wait 3-5 years to contact many of the leaders of the countries that at least use to support the USA until Bush decided our way or the Highway.
On another note, Hillary knew about Bills affair, the thing is she was so busy wearing the pants in the family, she did not realize his had a zipper.

She is a woman who wants power, that is what it is all about. It is not about children, elders, employment, education, healthcare and peace. It is all about her having power. You can see it in her eyes, even when she tried to seem emotional, her eyes showed true evil.

It you think your national security is in danager now, imagine what it would be under another Clinton.

Vote for the person who can truely inspire all ages, both genders and all political types that you can have a dream and the people who dream together, stand together, work together and grow together.

Obama, for the sake of the rest of the free world, good luck.

swissdiver   January 13th, 2008 3:13 am ET

Another misleading ad from a man in disguise. I can't believe Obama is using his deceased mother to get sympathy and beg for votes, What a pathetic thing to do.

James Brown ( Independent )   January 13th, 2008 3:00 am ET

Obama is a man with a vision and conviction , to say nothing about being very intelligent. I could care less about how long he has been in Washington , and to be honest , i see his lack of "TIME" as one of his greatest assets.

The man understands that real change comes from the bottom up , and with the will of the American people behind you " all things are possible".

There is a bunch of people that hate Hillary Clinton………..why ?…………because she represents everything that is wrong with Washington today. She will say or do ANYTHING to get elected because that's who she is. If you think America is divided now , put Clinton in there. We can not handle another 4 to 8 years of America going down the tubes , because nothing gets done in Washington.

With Hillary its all about her and her entitlement issues………."Not the American People".

We need change and Obama does that for AMERICA.

OBAMA 08

Dr. Hart   January 13th, 2008 2:06 am ET

Marsha - YES WE CAN!

The ONLY thing people seem to be harping on in Hiliary's favor is "experience". Let me be clear, and as others have mentioned, experience means absolutely nothing! Look at ol George W. He had 4 years of presidential experience…screwed up and, because of how many people were blind , was re-elected to screw up for another 4 years! What does matter is common sense, good judgement, and intellectual competence. It is the crew that the president appoints that is charged with carrying out the president's directives. There is no doubt which candidate, among democrats and republicans has the BEST judgement and intellectual competence.

Obama 08 baby!

New York Dem   January 13th, 2008 1:35 am ET

I used to be a strong supporter of Hillary Clinton, but no more. I just don't trust anything she says anymore. I hate to say that, but it's true.

I have a lot of respect for John Edwards, but I simply don't think he has a chance of winning at this point.

Barack Obama has a message of hope and fundamental change that really excites and inspires me. I think he's the only candidate who can unite our country and build a working majority that can change the way things work in Washington. I also trust Barack's judgment. He has earned my vote and I'm going to proudly support him in the NY primary.

Audrey in Alexandria, Virginia   January 13th, 2008 1:28 am ET

Experience does not guarantee you are better for any job. In life how many of us work with co-workers who have more experience than us however, they do not do a better job. I have also seen new employees enter a job with little experience and they quickly excell at their work and surpass others who have more experience.

Usually those that work hard and accomplish much on the job are those that have a passion for what they do. And Barack Obama is a man that demonstrates that passion in wanting to serve our country.

He is a man in his 40's that has shown he has a relentless spirit. He speaks to us in a fresh voice, not copying other speeches or sounding like other politicians but his true character comes out through his speeches that show his efforts, to choose the right word and to express the right thoughts.

If Obama becomes president he will be surrounded by appointed officials and advisors that have experience also. He is not in this job alone. He has the qualities of a born leader. And that is something you cannot teach. Experience may help you but, it is not what alone makes a president great.

Bimmer   January 13th, 2008 1:15 am ET

The reasons Obama went to church and did not change his name are politically convenieint i.e. to get votes from both groups.

The reason Obama confessed to drug addiction in his book was to kill the issue, knowing that if the media find it out later it could become an embarassing issue. He took the chance calculating that Americans will forgive the confession. But that does not diminish the point that he is a bad role model for kids on this point, becuase they will think if he could do it , so can they.

As to his talking about his mother's worrying more about the medical bills than getting well in the ad dubbed "Mother," he is the one who is politicizing her dreadful death. A lot of people lose their loved ones to cancer and oither diseases and many of these families really cannot afford seeing a doctor. They are way worse off than a mother who was able to send her son to two expensive Ivy leagye schools.

As a person from another country who has no direct stake in the US election, I find it amusing that when questions about Obama's decisions, ads and positions are raised, his supporters cannot take it and start attacking the person who raises the issues. But these same people have no problem in attacking Obama's opponents and their spouses with inappropriate langauges. In a democracy, should not every candidate be subjected to the same amount of scrutiny?

Eli   January 13th, 2008 12:53 am ET

I find distasteful for a politician to use the memory of his dead mother to gain votes.

My understanding is that his mother lived in Indonesia and was married with an Indonesian oil manager. She left the United States, right? Was she back In States when she was ill? She definitely had a tragic fate to die of cancer so young, but its hard for me to imagine that the money were the problem. First, she had a quite wealthy husband. Second, her son Obama graduated with a BA in 1983 when he started to earn money, and in 1991 he got his law degree and became an attorney. Does it look like a poor family? His mother died in 1995.

I hate to make an insensitive comment, but Obama is using the memory of his mother to gain political points and this looks very insensitive to me.

Ellen   January 13th, 2008 12:42 am ET

Obama's plan is just right. We cannot create a nanny state of mandating everything. There has to be a balance. Let the 20 somethings learn the hard way that personal responsibility is the key to a successful life. Yes, we need government healthcare but not the strict, mandatory versions. We can compromise and come up with a good plan.

YouthVoter, CA   January 13th, 2008 12:32 am ET

Obama tells me change is new, I agree (not knowing every election Presidential politicians talk about change and nothing changes).

Obama tells me to hope so i start hoping.

Obama tells me to change, so I change my parents since they are past and status quo.

Obama tells me to repeat Hillary hatred post 100 times a day, so i do. It's a change from my other work.

Obama tells me to convince my other immature youth friends to cheer for change, so I do it.

Anon, Seattle   January 13th, 2008 12:29 am ET

If Hillary Clinton is elected, we are looking at 28 straight years (if she's elected 2 terms) of Bushes and Clintons. Enough!

Barack Obama is honest, straightforward, and I find his youthful optimism refreshing!
He makes me believe in this country again.

VOTE OBAMA.

Mike, Oregon   January 12th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Hillary: Yes, you can!!!

xtina chicago IL   January 12th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

I don't agree with any candidate who would tell a private car manufacturer that their products must all give higher fuel efficiency. I would give tax breaks to people who buy them and I'd love to see people have more of the fuel efficient cars, but I wouldn't give the fed. gov't the power to control the car business, nor the power to tell people what to drive. What's next? Telling us what we can eat? Also, I don't agree with people who must have big, gas-guzzling cars and who insist on fast, eight and 12 cylinder cars, but I'll defend their right to drive them.

Mary   January 12th, 2008 10:49 pm ET

Okay people really if Obama becomes president, he will be just like Bush another talking head. He will hire another VP like the devil we have now and people like him if that's what you vote for Obama another do boy!!!!!!!!!

John Adkisson, Sacramento, California   January 12th, 2008 10:44 pm ET

Whenever I see a picture of this woman and her young son — and think of the times she lived in — and the challenges she must have faced in a pre-enlightened America –I marvel at the kind of courage and character she must have possessed. No wonder her offspring is such an exemplary man.

From an independent   January 12th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

I don't know who I will vote for yet. I'm just watching things now, but here are some general things I've noticed:

1) The democrats eat each other alive and seem to always make it so much easier for the republicans.

2) There are tons of people who will never vote for Hillary (including me and most of the people I know.

3) Every other week, BIll puts his foot and his mouth (and will continue).

4) Obama still has a few things to prove, but people are starting to understand him better…and it's working in his favor.

5) The republicans have more strength with McCain's experience, period.

6) The media is baffled and confused by their own polling.

There are lots of things defying history. I think in about three weeks everyone is going to be surprised again.

So far, you have to agree it's been quite interesting and with each vote it's not quite like anyone would have envisioned. Stay tuned.

JACK ny, ny   January 12th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

AZAR- since you know so much about Obama, May be you can explain why he voted PRESENT on key issues in senate.

Please stop all those lame excuses for this guy

Hope   January 12th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

Clinton will take this country to boldy go where no man has gone before. Clinton 08

Bob, Florida - RFO   January 12th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Presidential Candidates - Power rankings Comparison

Below is a list of current Members of Congress who are/were presidential:

2005 Score/Rank 2006 Score/Rank 2007 Score/Rank
Joe Biden 40.88 / 28 42.88 / 26 19.31 / 44
Hillary Clinton 35.06 / 41 37.81 / 39 29.84 / 12
Chris Dodd 39.25 / 32 31.81 / 55 19.44 / 43
John McCain 80.94 / 3 53.62 / 11 26.75 / 18
Barack Obama 25.68 / 68 32.56 / 51 24.02 / 27

Barack Obama is ranked as the most powerful Senator that was Elected to the Senate in 2004. That elected class contained 7 Republicans and 2 Democrats and included GOP Chairman Mel Martinez who is ranked 6th with a power rating of 9.95 and a Senate ranking of 89.

Barack's power rating and rank for 2007 was better then Joe Biden and Chris Dodd in 2007.

To be fair and balanced Hillary is also Ranked Number 1 for the Elected Class of 2000!

Summary:
For 2007 Hillary's power rating of 29.84 is 19.6% greater then Barack's at 24.02 when comparing them directly.

For 2006 the rating was closer with Hillary at 37.81 and Barack at 32.56. Both candidates power ratings dropped in 2007 due to election campaigning.

Hillary does not hold a significant power rating advantage over Barack in while serving in the Senate.

Go Barack '08.

Caleb, CA   January 12th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

First of all, when trying to make a valid argument, refrain from smiley's; we know they are cute, but take away from your argument. Many of these comments are youtube quality, yet I will still partake in this debate. Those of you who harp "experience" is important, the Bush administration has been a prime example of what "experience" can bring you. What this nation needs is not experience, but intelligence. The fact is that this nation has been split in two, and Hilary Clinton sits on the side of the old establishment. The republican smearing team has had sixteen years of building a case against Hilary that whenever you mention her name to a casual republican, they show distain. There are a lot of moderate republicans who do not want to vote for any of the republican nominees, yet will choose dirt over Mrs. Clinton. Why should that effect your vote? because another democratic winning is far better than Sen. Clinton losing the general election.

We all know that change is the new campaign buzzword. Yet, the type of change that Obama speaks about is changing the direction this nation is heading toward to a much more united country. I like the Clintons, but they should serve a much more advisory role to Obama, because that's where their experience would be more useful. Petty distortions of the truth are dirty politics, of which will should all hold candidates to a much higher standard. I understand that many of you will continue to shout and promote your candidate until the primaries are settled, but please look at the bigger picture. It isn't who you stand for but which candidate will stand for you. For me, it's Senator Obama because when he speaks, he makes even those who don't agree with him listen.

Marsha   January 12th, 2008 9:29 pm ET

If I read "YES WE CAN" one more time I'm going to throw up on my key board! The way you brainwashed Obamamites can listen to the preacher wanna be and hear "Yes we can" and be so easily swayed to believe that this man is going to make a difference because of the way he sounds is laughable. What because he told you a stor similar to the Little Engine that could?

Go read a bed time story instead…Obama is in Fatasy Land. I admire his dream, but I want someone rooted in reality. I don't need another Bush who does what he wants without being rooted in the real world.

Dr. Hart   January 12th, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Yeah right, and how do you figure Hillary is going to solve the health care problem when she is busy courting health insurance company LOBBYISTS and have already TRIED AND FAILED to overhaul Healthcare. How in the heck do you figure she will succed now?????? BARACK OBAMA for President of the United States of America! YES WE CAN!

Marsha   January 12th, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I wonder if he's running this add in S.C. where he's looking for the "black" vote.

Richard, Ewing NJ   January 12th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Obama should have a more concrete plan for his change. Everyone want to change, but there must be some realistic plans.

Kevin, Landover, MD   January 12th, 2008 8:54 pm ET

WHAT BAFFLES ME is that the Candidates and EX Presidents that SAY they care so much about the Democratic Party and the People of America SO MUCH. But yet don’t know how to get out the way when it is clearly NOT their time. Just amazes me.

The Clinton’s time has PASTED and so has Edwards. ( But they all just hang on like a old Cold sore) to the very end.

It shows how they all just get caught up in themselves and forget about us. The Clinton’s knew all about “Out with the OLD and in with the NEW when they ran in 1992. Now they are the OLD and can’t seem to get past their EGOS long enough to just step aside and let this man, Obama lead the Democratic Party. Obama will bring new voters out which will get more Congressional seats for the Democrats so things can get done for a change. Obama has cross over appeal to Republicans and Independents. But I guess at some point all that became back seat issue for the Clintons HUGH EGOS.

EDK   January 12th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

Dear Alice,

Affordable means that it is believed to be within the financial means of most Americans.

Obama will make it so that most Americans can pay for it without feeling strapped.

Maybe it is you who does not understand basic concepts and not Barack Obama.

Hillary will force all people to buy insurance, no guarantee that it will be less affordable.

Obama can implement his plan ASAP because it does not cost as much as Hillary's. Are you aware of the deficit?

It is pretty hard to reform healthcare, apparently, Bill Clinton didn't do it…Hillary's plan also failed. What makes you think her expensive plan can pass now?
If you want straight talk and real reform, listen to Obama…he can probably clear up your "whatever that means" statement.

EDK

Jimenez   January 12th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

K - another empty speech from Obama. You are not kidding. I just decided to listen to him talk. Give him the benefit of the doubt so to speak. Same story. I knew it. talking about change blah blah blah someone who can do that blah blah blah. People tired of same old same old blah blah blah……….. He is so boring when he speaks. But he is the ultimate bore on the debates.

I support Clinton - I have always supported Clinton. These comments about "I use "to support Clinton are BS. I know. Once a Clinton supporter always a Clinton supporter. Write away on the blogs - we continue and will continue to support this remarkable woman who can take this country "To boldly go where no man has gone before."

Mike, Oregon   January 12th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

Kris, It benefits us, the hard-working, middle class tax payers who won't have to pay the tremendous health care costs when uninsured people show up in emergency rooms with serious problems. I'm sick of paying a fortune for my own insurance and watching my tax money go to pay health care costs for people who don't want to cough up the bucks for their own health insurance. I'm also sick of paying for illegals who receive top-notch health care for free. (Not speaking of children here.)There should always be health care available for Americans who absolutely can't afford insurance premiums and for all children.

Amy   January 12th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Hillary is bogus. Bill was elected promising universal health care. The Congress was democratic. Eighty percent of the public was behind it. The economy could easily support it. Yet her program was 1000% failure. She had another 6 years to try to revive it. Let's hear the excuse for 8 years of failure on her supposed pet program - when her husband was the president no less. Now there's an election, she's promising you healthcare again just like Bill did - with an unworkable mandatory plan. The theory is that if you can fool them once, you can always fool them. As Geffen says, "the Clintons lie with such ease, it's troubling". and the NY Times' William Safire called her a "congenital liar". Hillary flunked healthcare. She flunked Iraq. She flunked Iran. She even flunked the Washington bar exam twice, and is a failure at representing a strong women, remember the tears? That's her record - her so-called experience. Say no to status quote, Vote Obama.

Azar   January 12th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

He went to Columbia University and Harvard Law School on his own merit and without financial support from his family. He was the first African American to be elected as the President of Harvard Law Review. After his law degree, he could have worked in any high paying top law firms, but instead chose a low paying job to help the community. Now, he is challenging the establishment and the Clinton machine. All these and many other important things that he has done indicate that he can conquer many obstacles in his path by having an excellent vision and foresight. He is creative and his ideas are so good that others especially Hillary Clinton are adopting them and using them as their own. This man CAN and he WILL do a good job for our country.

Sharon in FL   January 12th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

So German and UK newspapers are calling Obama the black JFK? That's a joke. I would call Obama the black Bush–no experience, talks a good game, doesn't have a clue about foreign policy. Wimpy Obama would be four more years of George W. Who could survive that? Go Hillary Go!

Angel   January 12th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

For those of you who keep arguing for “experience”, I take your point about experience, but ultimately your arguments fail to convince especially using GWB as an example. Simply put, he REALLY sent the country (and it’s global reputation) into the sewer during his second term – AFTER he had had FOUR years of on-the-job experience. On the other side, Bill Clinton didn’t have any experience governing on a national scale either when he won the Presidency, but he arguably did a good job for eight years. To be really simple-minded about the whole experience vs. change debate, only an incumbent president can truly be said to have that level of experience. Follow that line to it’s logical conclusion and you see that touting Hillary’s so-called “experience” is spurious at best and does not stand under any scrutiny in terms of national experience.

George   January 12th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

I loved Bill Clinton as President but have begun to see in the Bill/Hillary team samplance of attacking by twisting the truth and mischaracterizing of otherwise disent candidates. This kind of politics reminds of the Bush/Chaney type attacks when they ran their campaign. If they can twist the truth as they have in this campaign - to get what they want, I wonder what they will do in the whitehouse to get what they want… especially when attempting to convince the people about direction for the country. This, for me, is frightening; I want someone who has a habit of presenting truths to the - we the people. I've had my full of dishonesty with the bush administration. I have begun listing to Obama because I think he is being upfront with the public - unlike the Clinton's. The Clinton's will not get my vote in the primary or in the general election - should they win the nomination (this is a recent complete reversal for me; I did support the Clinton's, but no more). I keep using 'they' when I speak of the Clinton's because that is who her supporters are voting for - the Bill/Hillary team.

Obama is right, we need a complete change, (no more Bush's and no more Clinton's) we need hope and a new generation of leaders. As for me, I think Obama is intelligent enough to bring together a effective administration and to make intelligent choices that will to take this country in the right direction.

Annie, I suggest you not get caught up in the attack style arguments and the attitude of negativeness the Clinton's are putting forward (as if they were God's gift to politics - no matter what era they lived in). I fully respect your choice to support the Clinton's, but I suggest you take Obama's attitude of hope, optimism, and respect for others along with you, as you do.

Jr   January 12th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Obama will win no matter what. Hillary does not stand a chance against him. Enough said.
_________________________

That was said at the NH primaries.. and look what happened /lol

Neel ny, ny   January 12th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Obama is opportunist who didn't even spare his mother in greed for votes. He talked about how poor he was even though he graduated from Harvard. He went to best school in US and now he is making claims about his mother not being able to pay for medical expenses. So Obama you were able to go to all these great expense schools but your mom was worried about bills. I am sure she was worried however it must have been not being able to see you grow up. There are people who worry about medical expense then their kids are going to Harvard. SO you were not poor that you are trying to protray.

shame on you loser!!!!!!

Please give me a break!!!!

Your mother must have been turning in her grave hearing this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

stan pitts pa   January 12th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Bimmer January 12, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Talking about telling the truth in the ad:

Can Obama tell the truth about flip-flopping on the votes on Iraq?

Why he did not change his name to a Christian name if he is a Christian?

How can he be a good role model for kids when used and confessed to taking drugs?

seriously? obama is a lot of things to millions they share his pain and understand him, thats why people like you wonder why he has got so much support fyi people can relate to him because he is a human being!!! we have all made mistakes, obama will be president! people dont want a perfect person, because thats is not possible, he is young, fresh and full of ideas, a true academic and his diverse background makes him very appealing to most voters, also he is trying to engage Americans in discussing our problems and finding solid solutions as a people utilizing our best minds, obama is the hope for a true future, where America can compete effectively with the rest of the world, he is a true leader!!! pls keep your ignorace to yourself! Americans know a good thing/person when they see one!

stan pitts pa   January 12th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Bimmer January 12, 2008 5:55 pm ET

The ad about Mother

If your mom was divorced whe she was diagnosed with cancer and got the medication and she was going to die why did she have to worry about paying the bills?

Nobody can go after a dead person for unpaid bills?

Sympathize with her sickness and death, but to use her sicknees to gain votes by stretching the facts is not becoming of person who is a strong advocate of change.

hey pls grow up! just because you are dying doesnt mean you should not pay your bills and leave your children a huge debt, i think your post is insensitive, cold and mean it smacks of the hrc spirit, you must be her supporter, pls show some respect for his dead mother , single mother who gave him a chance at a better life, how disrespectful of you!!!

saraj jones   January 12th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

We need Obama for President. We need a democratic congress and senate or else there will be no change.
Sarah

Michael, Europe   January 12th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

From my (somewhat biased) European point of sight, this is quite an unusual way of conducting elections. Enormous money transfers every day, nothing is for free in this world…
But that's not my point. Gentlemen, gentlewomen, I simply would like to tell you that Barack Obama directly strikes, not only me, but most of the (admittedly also somewhat biased) people I've discussed your election with as an honest, upstanding man who I'd be more than happy to see in the White House.
What you people need is more than change, you need more than the down-to-earth solutions that Mrs. Clinton tells you are much better than the other candidates'.
You need an ideal. The American Dream, (which, by the way, has been nearly done to death) easily gets fouled by the everyday business that is very much needed. You don't need another candidate who can give you tax cuts or declare wars. You need a leader with an ideal, a leader who doesn't break in front of the lobbyists. Someone who can reform the picture of you as the loud, slightly obnoxious ignorants the rest of the world has (we still tell stories about the hard time most Americans have when trying to find the countries they go to war with on a world map).
You need Barack Obama. And trust me, it's not 'just me'. Just ask a European, and you'll see what I mean.

Jorgen Jensen (4th generation Danish in US)   January 12th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Have you thought about copying the Scandinavian model, where there's universal health care? Then you don't run the risk that any individual person chooses her or his health insurance as a function of the vallet size, i.e. everybody is taken care of in a proper fashion. Of course, if you throw in universal education, which also is part of Scandinavian culture, you also ensure a proper and high enough level of education for everybody, so that you don't have - like here in the US - so many plain stupid people, who can't read, or who can't look after themselves.

We need to seriously FIX this country. I don't think any of the current candidates ever can do it. But, if having to choose from any of them, Hillary gets my vote.

If not for any other reason then because she's a woman. Again, Scandinavia has had such a successful run with women in the highest office's for many, many years.

Scandinavia is the richest region in the world. With most happy people. With the world's least corrupt nations.

But, as they're not more than 20 million people, you seem to not care. But, listen, Norway and Denmark are self-sufficient with energy. Read it again. Actually, the EXPORT oil and gas and are accumulating wealth. Get it?

To fix this country, we need to demand more of our nation, more of our people. We must not leave it up to an elderly, poor lady to decide, if she can afford medicine. We owe it to her, as a citizen, that her old age is dignified.

We need to think Scandinavian, I believe.

Anonymous   January 12th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

Americans, please wake up. Stop being the sheep being led to the slaughter. None of the presidential candidates running for office is any better or any capable than you, but the way you all are carrying on, its like you worship these people. No one candidate has all the answers, so, although you support a candidate, you don't have to demean the others. For those of you who do not know this, a president is basically a figure head. Secondly, no president has all the answers to solve the problems we allowed to happen. The answers to solve our problems must come from all of us and not from one person. The American people are pitiful. Instead of criticizing candidates, we , as citizens should be getting more involved in determining our own fate. When policies, plans and programs are implemented in this country by our government, they are not usually the work of one man or one woman, they are the work of the President and Congress reaching consensus on what should be implemented. From my perspective, the President should make proposals, but the final policy, plan, or programs should be and will be decided by Congress and the people. The most important attribute that a president can have is to be a good listener. When I read the comments that some of you post about the candidates, I laugh because I am wondering where have all of you been since you have become old enough to vote. What President has lived up to your expectations? You can probably count them on a couple of fingers. If you want to vote for one of these candidates, be my guest. But stop trying to convince other people to vote for them. Go get a life.

Anand Kumar   January 12th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

To Bimmer above: Why should Obama change his name to prove he is a Christian? I am a Christian and I don't have a "whiteman's" name. What's in a name.

My name reflects my heritage, and I am proud of it. I am just as much a christian as anybody else. Your comments reflect ignorance.

tc   January 12th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Certainly, "change + hope can be so seductive" and yet can be sexy as a pure slogan. But there is a risk involved if the person in charge is not up to par. I do not mind to have another 8-yr. of Clinton's prosperity. If Hillary is in office, I expect better than the old Clinton's. Hillary will bring in "change" too, do not forget.

Greg M   January 12th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

(I know, its not right to simplify it this way)
BLACK man or white WOMAN????

with so many good options, its kinda hard to choose.
but I gotta go with the BLACK man.

why?
Hillary is the establishment, NO MATTER WHAT SHE SAYS!!! or HOW SHE CAMPAIGNS!!! I gotta believe that her crocodile tears are going to be repeated in the next few weeks, and I gotta believe that even if everything doesn't get fixed or better, Obama is THE MAN because hes going to change something, HE'S GOT TOO, HE"S FREAKING BLACK!!! that in itself is enough for me. America cannot elect its first non-white male and expect things NOT to change. That is change almost by definition. I've been voting for 25 years (or so), and I've NEVER been as excited and hopeful as I am now when I think that we might actually elect Obama.

VOTE OBAMA now and in November.!!!!

(by the way, I'm white and male)

kat   January 12th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

I like Obama's health plan because it's not the gov'ts responsibility to babysit us and make sure that we take care of our own health! Pyschologically speaking, a 20 year old with low wages will spend more money on video games and clothes before health insurance, but that is irresponsible. There is a difference between not paying for health care and not being able to.

Scott, Madison, WI   January 12th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Bimmer:

Please inform yourself before you spout off:

Your estate and it's assets still can be tapped regardless of the type of debt you carry upon your death. It doesn't disappear into nothingness.

He took a stand before and while he was running for election in Illinois.

It's not a requirement according to the Christians I know -(and by the way, I'm an atheist) - that you take a Christian name just because you are a Christian.

I can't believe your ignorance about drug use. Some people try it and get over their experimentation or escape phase and rise above it. Others go on to lives of addiction. The lucky ones use drugs - (and alcohol - yes the most abused legal drug known to man) - recreationally which is maybe not the best choice, but at least their right if they want to take the risk. Some people never use drugs or alcohol. It's really pretty simple …

dmhkh   January 12th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Hillary Clinton will be the greatest President our Country has ever known. And I believe that most of America will soon come to that same conclusion. She is brilliant, tenacious, hardworking, tough and compassionate. She does not have an ego to worry about and she knows how to get things done.

Jim   January 12th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

If you want to reduce the cost of health care, get rid of the money. To make health care a cost based product, get rid of the value based system, that is, insurance. The cost of care must be divorced from returns on the value of payment for care.

Ziggy from Virginia   January 12th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Obama will win no matter what. Hillary does not stand a chance against him. Enough said.

Bob, Florida - RFO   January 12th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Bimmer January 12, 2008 5:45 pm ET

His name is just that his name. There's nothing written or practices that states that a Christian must have a certain name.

I see your true colors shinning through … But don't be afraid!

Go Barack '08!

Bob, Florida - RFO   January 12th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Bimmer January 12, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Not sure how you can know the facts regarding the Mother of Barack and her concern about whether or not the bills could be paid!!

Go Barack '08.

danielo   January 12th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Americans voices has been so much muzzled that people need someone with not only the right judgement, but who can inspire people to wake up and achieve higher goals!!
Go Obama!!!

yk   January 12th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

Obama did not flip-flop. His words were taken out of context. If you watch the news
and read you would know that. Your name is your birth right. Not everyone changes to suit others. When you know who you are and where you come from,
you do not have to change your name to make other happy. Everyone makes
mistakes. Have you ever made a bad choice?(I guess not, you are clean and
Pure) It takes a REAL Man to be able to admitt his mistakes, Change, and Rise
to the height Obama is right now, even if he never become president. Time to
put the negative crap to rest. Vote for Who you want, but you don't have to trash
the other candidate . I guess you don't listen because your life is perfect. You
have a great job, house, money, and you are happy that the troops are sitting
targets in Iraq. Obama talks about change that will help the rest of us that are
struggling with High gas prices, poor healthcare, Rising tuition, a down turn
in our economics, the declining dollar, and bringing our loved ones home
from Iraq.

K   January 12th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Another Obama's empty speech.

Bimmer   January 12th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

The ad about Mother

If your mom was divorced whe she was diagnosed with cancer and got the medication and she was going to die why did she have to worry about paying the bills?

Nobody can go after a dead person for unpaid bills?

Sympathize with her sickness and death, but to use her sicknees to gain votes by stretching the facts is not becoming of person who is a strong advocate of change.

David, Los Angeles   January 12th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Does Obama have anything to offer besides slogans? "Change," "fired up and ready to go," "yes we can"…change what? Ready to go where? Yes we can…do what? Nobody knows.

Is he running for President or prom king?

Bimmer   January 12th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Talking about telling the truth in the ad:

Can Obama tell the truth about flip-flopping on the votes on Iraq?

Why he did not change his name to a Christian name if he is a Christian?

How can he be a good role model for kids when used and confessed to taking drugs?

yk   January 12th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Hillary has experience, that I must admitt. When you hire a older more experienced person it is harder to get them to do the job. They think
they know it all, seen it all, and have the best way to handle it. This
is the exact thing that has washington set up to fail. Obama is well
educated, in touch with the everyday people, everyday problems, and
the need for change, With His intelligence, organizing experience, and
ability to bring people together he will be a Perfect fit for President. He
is a Havard Law Graduate. The Time is Now…. Yes We CAN!!! We as
american are going to tell washington by way of the voting booth that:
The Old school is Closed and the New school is about to open.

R. Fraer   January 12th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

YEP< BLOW SOME MORE SMOKE BARRACK LOTS OF SMOOTH TALKERS BEFORE YOU HAVE TRIED, YOU DON'T CHANGE WASHINGTON, WASHINGTON CHANGES YOU, GET REAL AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PLACE BEFORE YOU TALK

Scott, Madison, WI   January 12th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Steve:

Unlike HRC who attached her name only to bills that were assured passage and has never taken a stand on anything unless it was popular at the moment. She has a reputation for being unyielding and unable to compromise but is now trying to give the impression on the campaign trail that she has that ability. This another remake - at least the third - in the last few weeks to give the impression that she knows how to listen.

Elease   January 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Obama can and will make a difference. The so call experienced Presidents did not make a difference. Hilary had a chance. Crying reminds me of tactics displayed by kids.
Ellie let me enlighten you…life is a gamble. if you don't take chances, you will never make a difference and things will remain the same. Wake up America..The time is now……Obama …Obama…Obama

Daniel   January 12th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

The only chance Republicans have is if Hillary wins. I live in Utah and I don't know anyone who would even consider voting for Hillary. Lots of my Republican friends are actually planning on voting for Obama, and even more are considering it if Romney doesn't get the Republican nomination.

Steve   January 12th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

John says: " I find it remarkable that Obama, who was apparently never in Congress in the last two years, could still find time to have his name attached to 427 bills and resolutions in the 109th congress, and 459 bills/resolutions in the 110th congress."

Therefore he must be superman, and deserves to be elected POTUS, and maybe later DOTW.

Look for the bill he co-sponsored on "How to change a bicycle tire" [just kidding]. But if you look at the bills he co-sponsored, the vast majotiry of them are inconsequential.

Looks to me like he puts his name to most bills in the Senate.

That's one way to be prolific and establish Presidential credentials…..

mike   January 12th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

tom dav ie and ginny ca: obama chose kerry to endorse him because kerry has a litney of email addresses and connections to his presidential bid. look when it comes down to votes getting more established on the ground could mean the difference between winning and losing. and kerry has gone through this recently and stil has the wherewithall. remember he got 49,000,000 votes. way more than bill clinton ever did.

NoWay   January 12th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

In 2006 June, Mr Obama's campaign sparked controversy by circulating a memo accusing the former first lady of pandering to the Indian American community by referring to her as "Clinton (D-Punjab)" journalistic shorthand for Democratic senator from Punjab. It also accused the Democratic front-runner of getting "tens of thousands" from companies that outsource jobs to India. Mr Obama quickly made amends by apologising for the jab as the Indian-American community took umbrage, denouncing his memo as "the worst kind of anti-Indian American stereotyping." Others in List ¦ Republican Rudy Giuliani (former New York mayor) saying he was at "ground zero" as often as the rescue and recovery workers.

John   January 12th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I find it remarkable that Obama, who was apparently never in Congress in the last two years, could still find time to have his name attached to 427 bills and resolutions in the 109th congress, and 459 bills/resolutions in the 110th congress.

With very little effort, people could find out every vote he made or didn't make, and even those touting factcheck.org should be aware that aside from the Iraq War funding, there's very little to complain about.

Instead of posting half-truths and outright lies, perhaps a bit more time could be spent actually researching the candidates?

Steve   January 12th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

"Do not embrace "change" and do not know what "change" is."

Ah, but change + hope can be so seductive. ….

Germans voted for hope and change after World War I, and look what they got.

Adam Freeman   January 12th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Both Hilary and Obama would be excellent choices for democratic nomination. The differences between the two health care plans are minimal. Any health care plan would have to be negotiated with the members of congress. A congress that unfortunately will still include some Republicans. I believe that many of these Republicans will be unwilling to work with Senator Clinton. Republicans hate Hilary Clinton so instead of moving forward with real change for America. We have more partisanship in Congress.

tc   January 12th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

CNN is correct: Clinton 183 (delegates plus superdelegates) over Obama 78, that is why Clinton is way ahead over Obama. Folks: learn your politics facts. Do not embrace "change" and do not know what "change" is.

Scott, Madison, WI   January 12th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I can't comprehend the thinking of people still drunk on the "Clinton cocktail" from the 90's. Has someone other than the Clinton's rewritten history?

The economic growth was temporary, had peaked and the bubble began bursting just prior to Bill leaving office. The Clinton's were the birth parents of divisive, petty politics and conspiracy corner thinking. They elevated lying and dodging to an art form - and Hillary still can't give a straight answer to save her soul without holding her finger to the politcal winds or taking a poll. The Clinton's introduced exaggeration, manipulation and triangulation to the forefront of Washington politics and then blamed all their adversaries. An lastly, Bill couldn't even assure victory to a sitting VP to follow the "best 8 years we've seen in Washington". That's some legacy.

When will people sober up from the "Clinton cocktail" buzz and realize that we are still talking about the same issues we were prior to Bill's election: health care, the ecomony, jobs, etc.? All of Hillary's "new ideas" are just retooled Bill ideas from the 90s, nothing innovative or forward thinking. Same old drudge she's been pushing around Washington for almost 2 decades now with a new name.

We need new ideas, new leadership, wisdom and conscience in Washington. Not the same dog and pony show from the last century.

C.Turner   January 12th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I don't know the exact percentage of chances that a American has at becoming a president, but I'm about tired of these family legacies with our country. We need someone knew and improved like Obama.

Steve   January 12th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

CNNbias says: "I'm just not on the Obama-rama-shama-lama-doo-da train. It's a good thing he's not divisive. I would hate to see what that looks like."

Not yet, wait until he becomes President. Then, if you're not for him, you go to the Gulag immediately. My prediction.

Ellie, WA   January 12th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Obama is very likeable but I don't think it's wise for Americans to take the gamble on him. He may be a very eloquent and inspirational speaker but he has not proven that he can materialize his message of hope and change. At best, he needs a few more years to prove that he can actually change things. With the economy teetering on the edge, we need someone who has the experience to deal with issues…not someone who just makes us feel good.

Dragonfly3   January 12th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

I think Barry should have gone with his softer side — look what happened in NH when he tried to go too macho! (He really shouldn't have taken Rove's advice :( about belittling and demeaning Hillary — it backfired on him big time!)

And the AZ ad is sad about his mom but also kind of a downer. My Grandparents are retired there but they are both "bright red Republicans" since forever. They live in one of those huge retirement communities where they can live in their own home until they need to move into assisted living and then into the hospital or hospice - so with Medicare and Medicaid and supplemental insurance they are already taken care of - as are most of the seniors in their area. But for those under 62, it might be ok.

It's too bad Barry can't get Arnold's endorsement in CA. Is his wife supporting anyone? Talk about a mixed marriage = A Kennedy and A Republican - they seem really happy though. I wish Arnold could run for President and bring some REAL environmental clout into the White House. (I don't think Senator Kerry's windsurfing counts LOL)

Did anyone see Bill Moyer's last night? Heard he had Shelby Steele on the author of "A Bound Man: Why We Are Excited About Obama and Why He Can't Win". I googled the title and read some interesting reviews and comments. (BUT everyone should make up their OWN minds instead of letting the media, the pundits, the POLLS, and the special interest groups and the unions tell us how to vote!)

Is Oprah going to stump for Barry again? She said not, but maybe she will change her mind! I never get to watch her during the day, but I'd love to see her up close and personal (well as up close as you could probably get in a crowd of 20,000 - I forget how many came to see them in Iowa and NH? I did see the Bill Moyers show where he interviewed Dr. Ronald Walters, the director of the African American Leadership Center at the University of Maryland about the Oprah-Obama show. It wasn't very nice :( )

Anyway I think maybe Barry needs glasses or else bigger print on his teleprompter cards LOL. Was he squinting or just trying to look "presidential" when he stood there staring into space - maybe he was trying to give the image that he was gazing into the future? It was just kind of weird because every once in awhile, he would lose his solemn straight face and break out in a nice big smile. I actually thought Huckabees Iowa victory speech was rather more appealing with its down home folksy style!) That's why I wish Barry wouldn't get tooo overly serious sometimes… (And this is kind of nit picky - but when he bunches up his fingers and stabs the air = sometimes it makes me feel like he is trying to cram a sermon down my throat.)

YES WE CAN

Ginny Ca   January 12th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

To Tom Davie: Obama didn't just accept Kerry's endorsement, he actively pursued it. And Kerry, I believe, to "stick it to Edwards", made that endorsement on one of the first days of campaigning in South Carolina, Edwards home state.
I'm puzzled, too, as to why Obama would want to have the endorsement of such an old, experienced, status quo politician as Kerry.

CNNBias   January 12th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Yes, CNN, we get it….. Obama goooood, Clinton baaaaaad.
Change
Audacity of home
The urgency of now
The wave (short commercial)
Yes, we can
Yawn.
The guy is one commercial campaign slogan after another.

03/05 vote 20. No to a 30% cap on credit charges. He didn't feel the need to take on corporate banking and make a difference for the debt laden middle class but everyone should believe a statement that he is going to take on pharmaceuticals and insurance. Yes, Obama supporters the Senate has a website.

I'm an independent. He would never get my vote. The guy is dull as dishwater and his voting record sucks.

I'm just not on the Obama-rama-shama-lama-doo-da train. It's a good thing he's not divisive. I would hate to see what that looks like.

Hey, where's that person who keeps posting the 24 inch Obama spiel?

AnnAloha, PA Independent Thinker   January 12th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Please tell these Ballot Bowl reporters to stop comparing registered hispanic voters in Las Vegas and whether having spanish language in the Obama and Clinton camps as a negative to South Carolina's Illegal Immigration issue's…and whether or not it will hurt Obama and Clinton in South Carolina.
Can this get anymore rediculous?

Gobama   January 12th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Tom Davie January 12, 2008 1:56 pm ET

If Obama only gets the votes that 'hate Hilary', he will sure to win. 60 percent of Americans hate Hilary. LOL

Sue   January 12th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

4 Reasons why Hillary should NOT be the democratic nominee:

Hillary Clinton might win the nomination, but there are a number of problems with selecting her:

(1)Recent polls have shown that 50% of the country won’t vote for her in the general election under ANY circumstances, so she’s already playing on a really short field. It’s tough to win if half the country has turned its back on your candidacy and you don’t know for sure if you have the full support of the other half.

(2)The republicans want to run against her because they have 20 years’ worth of dirt against the Clintons to regurgitate in swiftboat ads during the general election.

(3)She needs independents to win, and Obama polls better than her with independents in general election match-ups.

(4)Bloomberg’s group, Unity08, has made it very clear that unless the parties nominate candidates that are NOT polarizing, they will place a very well-funded independent candidate (i.e. Bloomberg – who has up to $1 BILLION to spend) into the race. In other words they will throw in a SPOILER. Bloomberg is Ralph Nader X100. Hillary is the most polarizing candidate in either race, and she’s the one who 50% of the country won’t vote for in the general election, and who has a greater problem attracting independents – and the polls show this is in a two-party race WITHOUT a spoiler. So, the presence of a spoiler in the race is going to hurt Hillary (i.e. democrats) the most. Given these facts, I think Unity08 has been formed to stop Hillary from becoming president.

I think if democrats insist on nominating Hillary, we will for sure be in for 8 more years of republican rule.
……

alex   January 12th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

you guys don't get it… America will never have health coverage for everyone… it doesn't matter what Obama or Clinton says…

manny stanbrough   January 12th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Obama,Hiliary, Macain etc…. all canitdates wil nothing about immigration. This
issue alone covers our national seurity, economy, and insurance problems…..and so much more. Also Obama has alot of family in Kenya how will this affect his if elected. the only person I've heared say any thing good is Romney.

David Holmberg   January 12th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

People tend to believe that the Presidential Race '08 is between Obama and Clinton.

Don't count the republicans out. The thing with Hillary is that they can hardly run negative campaigns about her, everything in that way has allready been done -everything is known. Imagine the negative campaigns against Obama, it has allready begun about him being a "weak leader". Obama will be a great President some day, but Clinton would be a wise choise now. Obama needs to bring out a powerful own politic that match his rethorics.

Elizabeth Kane   January 12th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Why is CNN continuing to emphasize that Clinton is way ahead of Obama when Obama has 25 delegates, for sure, to Clinton's 24? This seems to be ignored by Josh and others. One doesn't need to be a statistician to know that 25 definite "votes" are better than 24. Statistics given without margins of errors and unknown populace are not proof sure. Furthermore, 39.4 is not a landslide over 36.?. I usually trust CNN news and reports, but when I hear jarring "falsified" reports I cringe.

Mike   January 12th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Go Hillary!

Ruth Mctizic   January 12th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Sen. Obama is and will be the best thing that has happened to America since
John Kennedy…although America was denied the full affect of his presidency
due to his untimely death. Wake up America…don't you recognize when God has his hand on a person……How could Sen. Obama possibly have stirred this country….this nation as he has without, and unless it is devine intervention

Cindy in Ohio   January 12th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Obama is providing something this country isn't used to: THE TRUTH.

Brian, NYC   January 12th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Obama double-talks so much he can't remember what he's said.

Regarding his Speech to the Culinary Workers' Union, he said:

“We have walked in your shoes… I don’t come from money, I don’t come from a lot of privilege…I was raised by a single mom, and my grandparents. When I see a single mom somewhere trying to raise her children, I know what that’s like. … When I see people at the end of the month saying, 'We don’t have enough.' … I’ve been there. I spent three-and-a-half years doing what the men and women of Local 226 are doing today, and that is organizing and working and fighting to keep the American dream alive for all people… I was walking in picket lines fighting for people like you."

1) He was raised by his mom and step-father, and grandparents (LIE #1)

2) He CERTAINLY comes from privilege: He attended a Hawaiian prep school where the Hawaiian royal family went to school… he then attended COLUMBIA University, and then Harvard Law School… not from privilege?? I graduated from Duke University (another top 10 school), and although I was dirt poor while there, I would never be so arrogant as to say I DIDN'T come from privilege.

3) He never spent 3 and a half years doing what the Cullinary Workers' Union members do. Those people work TOUGH, lower-paying jobs. Obama may have had a tough time of it when he began his political career in Chicago, but MOST young college grads (especially grad school grads) have a tough few years at first.

4) Walking in picket lines is great, but where is the LEGISLATION for Unions? Did he write any? Did he help pass any legislation into law?

Jeff   January 12th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

So, what's all this experience that Hillary touts? 35 years doing what?

She's been a Senator for what, 7 years. And behind that, what's her experience? Elected office? Administrative? She was an attorney, and then a spouse. She's been in the public eye a lot, but is that experience? CALL HER ON THAT! Asserting that she has experience, in a believable way, does not mean that its true!

Obama has fewer years experience as a Senator, but at least has the state legislative experience behind him.

If experience is the byword in this election, then McCain, bless his heart, will bowl everyone else off the alley.

charlotte   January 12th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

I hope people keep refering to the Clintons as a team, we need the best team we can get. Two for one, sounds good to me.

Brandon   January 12th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Whoever said that the republicans want obama to get the nomination is completely wrong. America wants change thats clear, ask yourself this question honestly do you really feel after a year of rallying people around change which is what he will do that they are going to pick a John McCain or any of the other GOP? Face it the republicans conservative ways will cost them the election next year. People want something different not a step up from Bush which would be McCain

John   January 12th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Whether it is Barack, John, or Hillary, they are American patriots who wish to do their best for the American people. I believe they hold in their hearts, a belief that their service will make an impacting difference for the better.

I have been intrigued and impressed by what has made Hillary “tick” and by her dedication to what she has believed in. One principal example is her understanding and dedication to the cause of children and family (Please read “It Takes A Village To Raise A Child”).

She was highly criticized because of her phrase “Vast right-wing conspiracy,” when trying to defend her husband. Yet, this was very personal to Hillary. She was defending her husband.

But, what has been evolving throughout the years? According to A.C. Nielsen, in the US, talk radio is largely made up of conservative political commentators. The top five programs are those of Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Michael Savage, Neal Boortz, and Glenn Beck. Other top programs: Bill O'Reilly, Jim Quinn, Bill Cunningham, Melanie Morgan, Mike Gallagher and Laura Ingraham. On TV we have Bill O Reilly and Sean Hannity and the FOX channel. Trash Democrats in any type of media and you have a substantial following. Doesn’t Ann Coulter come to mind?

I believe Hillary has a profound understanding of our evolving history, our country, and the true concerns and needs of all Americans. Pore over Hillary’s past, accomplishments, devotion to serving, and what those who have been close to her say about her, and we would see and feel that we have before us an extraordinary woman and an extraordinary leader.

It’s my belief that all her life, without her knowing exactly why, Hillary has been preparing herself for this momentous time in history. I pray that she becomes our 44th President.

Justjean   January 12th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

First respondent is sadly misinformed. It is not OK to pass off disinformation. Obama wants to provide a government plan that is in serious competition with private plans. That is how prices will come down. People will be able to keep the plan they have if they prefer. While people will not be forced to carry health insurance…it is still a free country is it not?…it will be AVAILABLE to everyone. Allowing people to choose is hardly leaving them out.

It is a real stretch to say that forcing everyone is "not leaving anyone out." What a spin! Obama is clear, honest and fair. People who prefer someone else keep trying to give out disinformation on him. Go to barackobama.com and get the real thing.

Truethis   January 12th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

We have to be honest with ourselves…..do you really think we going to have TRUE Universal Health Care?? We are so divided between Democratics and Republican that we can't get anything passed in Washington and you think that we can get these things under the Clintons. But I rather have a chances to have cheaper health insurance than nothing. Because this country is so divided we need TRUE change and I think that Obama can bring that to us by uniting.

OJC, PHX   January 12th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

"Didn't he argue with Sen. Clinton because her plan was for insurance for all?
Why the sudden change…Oh I forgot..you have a habit of changing your mind. Got "

Obama's premise is that people will puchase if they can afford. Which means the people that don't have it are too lazy to spend 5 minutes online filling out forms…If its mandated, how do you police it? Tax people? Send them to Jail? The mandate is just silly.

Dr. James O.O   January 12th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

It is real amusing and beyond logic to say that:The republicans want Obama to win the nomination because they feel they can easily defeat him in the general election. i believe that is not logical from the writer's point of view.will the democratic voters side with the republican after the primary in the general election in order for Obama to lose?or will they vote for their consensus democratic candidate in the person of Obama?mathematically, one half +one half = one.which means the part that votes for hillary will equally team up together to vote for their candidate-Obama.
Therefore, give Obama your full blown support for things to change in the USA and for her(USA) to, once again, BE RESTORED TO HER GLORY BOTH AT HOME AND IN THE INTERNATIONAL ARENA.
People talks of Experience,in no doubt, it places its role,but wisdom excels.Obama has the wisdom and the tenacity to bring changes to this blessed nation!!! give him a chance!!!

Jensen   January 12th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I've noticed that many people, especially young people who support Obama, have NO IDEA of his specific proposals - they are just emotionally swept away by his grandiose "bible revival" style speeches. We need more than just public speaking skills in our next president - we need someone who thoroughly studies problems, pays attention, and develops solutions to our country's complicated issues. We don't need someone who watches a football game in the middle of a national debate (Obama admitted to this during the debate in NH last week.)

Jack, Greenville, SC   January 12th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Obama has a clear, implementable health care plan. Clinton's has very little chance of ever getting passed, and includes penalties for those who refuse to buy into it. That is what the mandate is: you buy it or you are punished. I guess that's one way to make it universal. And, yes, you do have to pay under Clinton's plan, for those who suggest that you don't.

Donne   January 12th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Hello, Yes we can. you have the best health plan. No matter how good your plans ar