January 14, 2008
Posted: January 14th, 2008 10:08 AM ET

(CNN) – John McCain has taken the lead in Nevada for the first time this campaign, according to a poll released Monday, while Mitt Romney, who has spent more in Nevada than any of his GOP opponents, is now in fourth place.

The new poll by the Reno Gazette-Journal finds John McCain wins the support of 22 percent of likely caucus-goers, followed by Rudy Giuliani with 18 percent, Mike Huckabee with 16 percent, Mitt Romney with 15 percent and Fred Thompson with 11 percent. The other candidates register single-digit support in the survey.

On the Democratic side, it’s a three-way race, with Barack Obama at 32 percent, Hillary Clinton at 30 percent, and John Edwards at 27 percent.

The state’s caucuses will be held this Saturday.

The poll of 500 likely Democratic caucus-goers and 500 likely Republican caucus-goers statewide was conducted January 11-13 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.5 percent.

– CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: Nevada


Monday Morning Quarterback   January 20th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Wonder if the Reno Gazette Journal got a refund from the company that conducted their poll?

Nothing like getting national coverage for a poll that turns out to be wrong by about 40 percentage points.

Jimmie - NV   January 19th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

Today was the caucus for Nevada and Nevada has always been a "democratic" state. Well, guess what? Rommery kicked Hillary's butt!! She had just over 2700 votes against Rommey's 12,000 votes. What does that tell you? Yes, it's possible for another smart Republian to run the White House.

I am so happy to see that not all democrats stayed with the party. I will be on the band wagon to change my party affiliation, too. I would rather support either McCain or Rommey than to support Hillary We need more conservative not more liberalism. Liberalism is what is ruining our country today.

Valerie   January 17th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

McCain's two sons are serving this country. As a pilot serving this country, John McCain "puts his money where his mouth is." I will sleep better at night knowing that President John McCain's steady hand is at the helm. He respects the rule of laws and understands the complexities of our country and our place within the world. We are naive if we do not recognize these dangers. Please, let's give him a chance. He's earned it.

CT Billy   January 17th, 2008 11:56 am ET

All of the Giuliani nay sayers need to just look at the city of New York. I have been in NYC pre Rudy and Post Rudy. It's not even slightly comparable. Rudy cleaned up that city by being tough on crime. Manhattan was hardly a safe place to visit before him and now it is vastly improved. And I am a Democrat!

James   January 16th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

McCain is a Neocon, a liberal turned conservative. Romney is the same along with Huckabee and the worst Neocon Guiliani. The only true conservative in the race is Ron Paul. McCain is only in the race because he took the taxpayer funded matching funds. Dr. Paul won't take the matching funds out of principle, those dollars belong to the taxpayer and not him. It's called ethics. Either you have them or you don't.

NV John   January 16th, 2008 2:48 am ET

I do wish the candidates that are on the government payroll would get back to WORK!. The economy is falling, inflation is increasing, more troops are being deployed oversees and we are selling/giving away our own military technology to foreign countries which could be used on U.S. troops! If they want to campign, they should resign and have others perform their full time duties.

NV John   January 16th, 2008 2:40 am ET

Hillary Clinton has experience and wants socialized medicine but during her watch has allowed the VA clinics and hospitals to be the backwater of medical care. Why do veterans go to private doctors instead of the free VA? Long lines and bad care. Hillary go back to the Senate and spend some of that campaign money on veterans!

Edwards wants change. How about suing fellow lawyers who took money from consumers and miss lead them into bad mortgages? (Real Estate lawyers and Mortgage Brokers.)

Obama who I have had the opportunity to personally meet twice. All he comes accross as a slick lawyer/politican. After all why did he not debate a teacher or farmer that were on the ballot in his senate run? I guess there is no "Hope" for the non-connected as he plays standard Chicago/Cook county politics of using public workers and the union to get out the vote and play dirty politics. If he becomes the Democratic nominee, I foresee history repeating itself. Vote fraud just like in 1960 for JFK which will be just like the Bush frauds of the 21st Century.

McCain wants to build a fence. The Great Wall and the Berlin Wall have demonstrated how foolish that idea was.

Giuliani talks about 9/11 but not the garage bombing of the World Trade Center in 93. Why did the fire, police and port authority have different radios? Poor Public communication by NY officials and the building led to more deaths. This man has just reactionary leadership and is not what this country needs to get out of Iraq, strengthen the economy and save social security.

Romney continiously changes this position. That is obviously non-leadership. I am thankfull he is spending his money to help pump up the economy.

Huckabee is scary and sounds like another born again leader for this country. Another 4 years of just like GW Bush will result in the World against us and run away inflation.

Thompson does not seam to be running a race outside of SC. Please tell the Senator that the other 49 states matter and I want a motivated President not a tired one.

Which leaves me with Ron Paul, he is not the perfect candidate but he is the only one I can see who can lead by reducing government spending which is driving up inflation (foreign currency rates and gold prices don't lie) . What is going to happen in 2013 when the Baby Boomers draw out more in social security than the workers paying taxes? Hyper-inflation as the government will just print up more money. Read your history lessons from the 1930's in Europe and if we don't change this country that we love will be crushed.

Come out to vote at least to have your voice heard instead of the media polls.

valerie summer   January 15th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

if you would actually print information about "the other candidates" maybe they would get more than "single digit support" in these ridiculous surveys! GO RON PAUL!!!!!!!

nina   January 15th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

The economy needs help. I know a solution.

Tax plans do not work. Lowering or making them higher doesnt work.

The ECONOMY needs money.

I can solve the economy problem and am wondering why no one else sees it as simple as I do.

This country needs a new market one that the US is very good at.

Well, what products do Americans export the most? I am not an expert but I see Coke Budweiser and Tobacco everywhere around the world.

We sell chemical mood enhancers around the world at superior product quality and for cheaper cost than anyone else in the world. We need to tap into the new market that marajuana could offer our farmers and this country.

We need a president that will step outside the box take a stand and recognize this opportunity to bring the US back to a top exporter, create jobs, help farmers and reinvigorate the economy.

There is a demand for this product. A product that is safer than alcohol and all natural with little need for addities or preservatives. You can grow it again and again fairly quickly like tobacco.

We sell caffiene, nicotine and alcohol all which have pluses and minuses, marajuana has them too and we have the best farmland in the world. We could be the top suppliers in the world on a global scale.

Imagine the possibilities if the tobacco industry got involved and started this market and got taxed.

This country would be out of recession and a huge boost to the economy would occur and desperately needed jobs would be instantly created.

Guaranteed.

What are the reasons that these politicians deny this market that we could tap into?

We would have such a boost to the economy we could fund universal healthcare like they have in every other civilized country.

This country was founded by people with a pioneering spirit. We need a pioneering president to break new ground open new markets and rejuvenate this country and get us to love it and believe in it once again.

Strengthing the home and heartland especially USA farmers would make this country strong.

Richie   January 15th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

What is your point Mike? How is the 22nd ammendment being violated?

Rex   January 15th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Does McCain really stand the best chance in Nevada. I know, I know, Ron Paul should win Nevada. Just like he should have one Iowa (that Middle West "Purple State") and New Hampshire (the "Live Free or Die" State). Just how he should be having an advantage in Michigan, that Barack Obama can not take all the Independent and anti-war Democrat votes because the Democratic primary in Michigan has been meaningless since they have been stripped of their delegates. Knowledgeable Democrats would not waste their vote and therefore, Ron Paul can get some crossovers, seeing as the GOP base hates the only candidate who could conceivably win for them. But that is the problem with being shunned by the media.

My question to CNN: Why do McCain. Even though Ron Paul is unknown, out of the top tier candidates, why not Mitt? You can not assume that McCain will win Michigan, Nevada, or any other upcoming state based on his success in Jew Hampshire.

Bill   January 15th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Right after the New Hampshire Primary the Culinary Workers Union endorsed Obama. The press immediately stated that Obama would have a major advantage in the Nevada Caucus because the union is notoriously good at getting it's members to vote for it's endorsed candidate. The teacher's union files a suit with others to take away a new advantage, convenient polling places the Culinary Workers Union received from the Democratic Party. The press then forgets it's earlier statements about the Culinary Workers Union and starts printing articles how closing the polls would disenfranchise the workers who would be robbed of their rights to vote in the caucus. One the Culinary Workers Union gives it's members pay for the time they take off to vote (any money that is exchanged between an entity that supports a candidate and the people who it is directly influencing to vote for that candidate is very suspect in itself). If they had to go home and vote I am sure the union could manage that. Two no other sector or part of Nevada get's such a preferential treatment. I have a feeling if one was in on the real reason these polling places were allowed you would see the Culinary Workers Union somehow in the mix, most likely to keep the Union voting just for a Democrat. The press often leaves out the fact that there are no special polling places for Republicans to vote. This by itself should make these polling places suspect. The winner in all of this is the Culinary Union. The looser in all of this is all the other voters in Nevada.
I think the special treatment the Culinary Union has received in Nevada has now cast a shadow over the Caucus and over their endorsed candidate Obama.
If Hillary Clinton had received their endorsement I am very sure that one of the unions endorsing either Obama or Edwards would have filed the same lawsuit. The press also fails to mention this tidbit.
The end result of what the Nevada Democratic party did by creating these special polling places was to cast a shadow and doubt over the Caucus making it less important than it should be and creating a caveat to any story that comes out of Nevada. Also there may be a negative bounce for the candidate the Caucus winner due to that caveat.
Sometimes not getting an endorsement is a good thing.

Anon 1   January 15th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

The Media put Mitt Romney through the fire because of the teachings of his church. I wonder when the media will ask Barack Obama to explain his beliefs in relation to his spiritual advisor (Rev. Jeremiah Wright) who is known to have radical views on race and Israel.

I think Obama needs to adress this sooner than later. Take off your mask Obama and face the issues. You do not get a pass from criticizms because you are a minority candidate. All candidates past and present are put through the fire. There is no affirmative action in the orad to the Presidency of the United States. I must say the Media have really turned me off. If they keep up this bias coverage, the will lose more of their viewers to the internet medium.

May the best Democrat win.

Anon 1   January 15th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

The Media put Mitt Romney through the fire because of the teachings of his church. I wonder when the media will ask Barack Obama to explain his beliefs in relation to his spiritual advisor (Rev. Jeremiah Wright) who is known to have radical views on race and Israel.

I think Obama needs to adress this sooner than later. Take off your mask Obama and face the issues. You do not get a past from criticizms because you are a minority candidate. All candidates past and present are put through the fire. There is no affirmative action in the orad to the Presidency of the United States. I must say the Media have really turned me off. If they keep up this bias coverage, the will lose more of their viewers to the internet medium.

May the best Democrat win.

David...   January 15th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

McCain and his democratic cronnies, Pelosi, Reed and Kennedy want to give Calderon concessions while the whole mexican congress laughs in his face. Talk about a blind man... he cant even see when he's beeing exploited. Today he wants michigan auto workers to turn their jobs over to illegals for the sake of other, low paying, service industry jobs so soon tax payers will be making beds while illegals will take those good auto worker jobs at half the pay and laugh at him while their doing it. Stop importing poverty....
Nevada for Romney and responsible economics.......

Teej MacArthur   January 15th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Let's see what happens if Romney wins Michigan today. The Republican race is certainly in flux and this suggests Nevada is not immune. Romney is the top-to-bottom strongest conservative in the race. I think he has a very good chance to win in Nevada.

Noreen   January 15th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

AJ in IL. Who do you think you are telling Edwards to drop out? What facts do you have to support the theory that if Edwards stays in the race, it's splits the anti-Hillary vote? BTW, my vote is not an anti-Hilary vote but a pro-Edwards, pro-someone with solid policy plans vote. Because you are a Obama supporter, you probably would love for this to be all sewn up by February. But too bad, there are still 48 states with voters that would like to have their voices heard. I don't want another convention that is nothing but a party to crown a nominee who was chosen way too early without the voters being given the time to get to know all the candidates. All voters should be given a fair chance to listen to all the candidates and hear their plans, plans that tell us how they plan to accomplish and pay for their policies. Something that Obama and Hillary have not offered or have eventually offered plans that are way too similar to Edwards. How can you trust that they truly believe in these plans when they are not their own.

JoAnn/Las Vegas, NV   January 15th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

As an ex-New Yorker and living in Las Vegas, NV for the last 15 years, I have seen a lot of changes here and respect the diversity within the culture. I'm not a gambler but if I had to place some bets I would say McCain has a good shot on the Republican side since his state (Arizona) is right next door and that we have a a decent population of military families. On the democratic side, it appears all top 3 candidates (Clinton/Obama/Edwards) have a chance. I am for Hillary Clinton for many reasons. After doing much research, I believe her energy package for the entire country is the best: Best for the environment and the economy. However, locally speaking, I know she is well aware that Bill Clinton's administration (with Al Gore) stopped the developers from building in the heart of Red Rock Canyon. Many people enjoy this park today because of this law. Hillary looked into the toxic drinking water in Fallon, NV when too many children were getting Leukemia. Hillary Clinton continues to oppose bringing toxic waste to Yucca Mountain and thank goodness since the geologists admit one earthquake fault is in a different spot than originally thought. I feel Obama and Edwards are good men and competent. Some of their programs are good and doable. However, Obama's Senatorial record is very short and he "rode the fence" on vital issues and did not take a stand. Edwards doesn't have much of a record in the Senate either. It doesn't mean Obama and Edwards couldn't or shouldn't be president. I feel Hillary Clinton's extensive record with working across the aisle, along with her experience qualifies her more. I hope each voter takes this election seriously, sticks to the issues, researches all candidates and then make an informed decision.

Hopeful for change   January 15th, 2008 11:50 am ET

McCain is a good guy. I respect many things about him and if he did end up winning the Republican nomination and later the Presidency, I imagine he would be a good president. Still, I really hope Mitt can pull it off and make it to the White House. He spent his career in business turning around companies that were headed for financial disaster. When he was put in charge of the 2002 Salt Lake Olympics, he did the same thing. He is more capable than any other candidate of handling the economic difficulties that America faces. Given that my generation is pretty much going to get screwed on Social Security, the National Debt, and Medicare (unless something is done about it), this is a big deal. Go Mittster!

anotherRichard   January 15th, 2008 10:59 am ET

Another example of Edwards "There" but ignored..
Who do you believe is really behind the Subprimes, $100 oil, outrageous health care situation, REMAINING in IRAQ? As Obama and Clinton supporters play tit-for-tat, only Edwards has been consistent where the real US v Them battle needs to be fought.

Dara   January 15th, 2008 1:50 am ET

Vote for the candidate that will put food on your table and not for the next poetic speaker that sells you the Brooklyn Bridge. Once Hillary gets the opportunity to debate Obama on issues without media distortions and the distortions and demagoguery claims, educated voters will choose Hillary Clinton. We have work to do. We have an education gap to close and jobs to fill. We want a leader that is ready to lead on day one, not an orator. Voters need to wake up and do some research. Reality is that Obama does nothing more than speak. He does not have any actions to support his campaign rhetoric. I am a Democrat, and a very pragmatic one at that. FACT: When Barrack Obama was one of our State Senators, he voted PRESENT nearly 130 times. Think about that. This self-proposed man of conviction, this man who does not believe in “politics as usual”, voted PRESENT on issues that were critical to the lives of the citizens in which he was supposed to be representing. He voted PRESENT instead of an up or down YES or NO because it was the politically expedient thing for him to do. Is this the voting pattern of a man of conviction – a man devoted to change? I don’t think so. In the past 8 months, the U.S. Senate has voted on issues critical to our country’s well-being more than 260 times and of these 260 opportunities to vote for change, Jr. Senator Obama failed to vote on more than 160 occasions. Be concerned about his lack of commitment on issues of vital interest. When we will need strength, when we will need leadership, when we will need to re-direct our country’s direction, would a then President Obama simply answer “PRESENT”? It is just not worth the gamble. Republicans want Obama to be their opposition candidate so they can absolutely destroy him. Hillary Clinton has been able to weather attacks from the Republican machine for 20+ years now and is still able to out poll the GOP frontrunners. Of course Republicans want Obama to win the primaries and they will go to ANY extent to make that happen...it's the ONLY chance they have to keep the noble office under thier power...that's what we need – another Bush. NOT – Culunary Union members, Don’t be the drones they expect you to be, vote for Clinton or you will get McCain – that’s a new can of gly worms.

Teacher   January 14th, 2008 10:00 pm ET

That was sarcasm for what will happen in Nevada.We need National Voting standards,checking voters and machines against FRAUD!Daaaaaaaaaaaa

lluvia   January 14th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Go Edwards and Obama make history in Nevada. Go for change in the White House. Go for change in Politics.

Jose Card - Independent   January 14th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

Teacher January 14, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Weeeeeeeee you dont even have to have an identity to vote here and no paper trail. You gotta love this one.
------------------------

If I want to go to a bar, I have to show my driver's license.
If I want to cash a check, I have to show my driver's license.
If I want to use a credit card in San Francisco, I also have to show my driver's license.

Why don't we have to show our ID to verify who we are when we choose our president? This is beyond ridiculous.

You can get a state ID from your DMV office free of charge if you don't drive.
I can't help suspecting those against it are interested in voter fraud.
All you have to do is to find out who will not vote and appear to vote for that person with the same gender.

Teacher   January 14th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Weeeeeeeee you dont even have to have an identity to vote here and no paper trail. You gotta love this one.

J Williamson Buffalo, NY   January 14th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

Once again, (as in Iowa) John Edwards is right up there with "Hillary/Obama and the media focus is squarely on the latter two. This is more than a two person race – I think the media folks dropped the ball here.

richard   January 14th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

i just want the country safe for my childern i was in viet nam ,i did my duty for my country and the commander and chief at the time ,i hope my service was not in vain ,i hope the people do the right thing when we vote for our next President ,im 63 years old i have always been interested in the elections and there has always been one guy that has stood out, but this time i don,t see one yet ,i hope there is soon i just want some one that loves out great country as much as i do, people running for President can say a lot of what they are going to do that is the easy part,i prey for the right person for our country.

Richard

i hope you print this thanks

A.B.   January 14th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Has the GOP Gone Nuts? John McCain? HE SUPPORTED AMNESTY? ARE YOU NUTS?

McCain stopped the Border Fence!? He's too old anyway. Huckabee is the GOP Bill Clinton period. Rudy can't win because of his past too many mistresses, Fred Thomson is even OLDER. Sure he'll win the South but nothing else.

That's why I'm a MITT ROMNEY SUPPORTER! He's run really big things before, the Olympics, Businesses, the state of Mass, etc. He also found a win/win solution on Heath Care in his state. And simply because he's a Mormon everybody is freaking out? You're more scared of Mormons than you are Radical Muslims!?

Ca Native   January 14th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

HEY... what's happening with the NH recount???

PREDICTION: the DNC will pressure to hold-off the REAL results on the same day we hear all the gorey details of Norman Hsu's influence within the Clinton Campaign ... AFTER the nomination process is completed.

Jr., California   January 14th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Does anyone remember "... bomb, bomb, bomb, .... bomb, bomb Iran ...?" Is this Presidential????

Jennifer, Houston, TX   January 14th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Statistical tie among Democrats in NV...wonder if CNN will mention all three of the democrats in their discussions, or if they'll just stick to their "Clinton-Obama" playbook?

EE   January 14th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

In all fairness I think Obama at this moment has demonstrated extraordinary leadership qualities

1.He has run an efficient positive forward moving campaign focused on the issues
2.He has stood on one message unwavering
3.He has remained calm in the face of excruciating attacks from Mrs Clinton
4.He has brought tremendous interest in politics by young people
5.He has built a movement that is scarcely seen in modern times
6.He has demonstrated that he can bring this country together in a way non has done
7.He only responds to attacks and doesnt go out for an all out attack like his opponent and has warned his staff not to resort to also

To me this is more than enough of leadership skills.

Contrasting this with Mrs Clinton
1.She has run a ruthlessly brutal campaign
2.She has no message, different messages according to circumstances
3.She has attacked her opponents and blamed them when she fails
4.She has completely turn off young people, angered independents,
5.She hasnt built any organisation of her own,Bill's acolades are hers
6.She seems to use Karl Rove divide and rule tactics (im not talking race here)
7.She campaigns against something not for something.Instead of making her case she is trying to make a case against the other guy.

Based on these and others I think Sen Obama is a better leader than Sen Clinton

Mike Allen   January 14th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

I hope the poll suggesting that Romney is behind is accurate. A Romney Presidency would mean four to eight more years of George Bush. More Iraq War, More jobs being sent overseas while corporate billionaires rake in ninty percent of our nations wealth. More cow towing to foriegn leaders like the Chinese and Mexicans at the expense of the American Worker. If you have loved eight years of Bush then vote Romney and keep the status quo.

G, Margate, FL   January 14th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

are you kidding me, wake up America, America needs to know that McCain needs to go to a nursing home not the whitehouse

Mark, Seattle   January 14th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Another Note to "Nevada Caucus" Your posting was very informative and something few people think about. Please, go to every article on the Ticker and post it under "Comments". Everyone should be aware of the points you make in your article. . .and please keep posting it everyday.

Joeley Reno, Nevada   January 14th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Elaine Medina...you go girl!

I made similar points earlier.

Bama's the one bringing race into this process because it divides our people and that, folks, benefits Obama.

If this carpetbagger goes much further we will be thrown back to an era that was ugly, regressive and just plain WRONG!

Caucus for Hillary 2008!

Ginny, Ca   January 14th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

To Nevada Caucus: You explained very well the exact caucus conditions I've been worried about. Growing up in California and living here all my life, I just assumed the secret ballot was uniform across our country. During the Iowa caucuses I realized just how intimidating that voting process must be for those who wish to keep their political choices private and for workers whose unions keep a watchful eye on them to be sure they raise their hands for the union candidate. I can't believe this is allowed in the U.S. It's akin to voting with a gun at your head.

Jeff   January 14th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Ron Paul for President are all the sheeple blind?? You are all listening to what the media wants you to hear! Be smart think out side of the box save our country!
Vote for Ron Paul!

Jay, Altoona   January 14th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

I think John McCain can win in November. He has been tested. The party elite don,t like him, which is one reason I do.

faith   January 14th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Never get intimidated. Obama all the way. America will be lived by humans not people who have been killed psychologically!

jane   January 14th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Thank you Nevada for recognizing household names and money will not buy this elections not unless rigged! Anyone but Hillary.

Ken   January 14th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Nevada Caucus,

Thank you for your analysis but we are more educated and we also live in America. Sorry about that.

Elaine Medina, Phoenix, AZ   January 14th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Question 1: How exceptionally stupid would the Clintons have to be to guilty as charged?

Answer: Unbelievably Exceptionally stupid.

Question 2: If it were indeed possible for the Clinton to believe they could make, and, actually secretly did make 'coded' racist remarks – would we be discussing it?

Answer: No. Obviously not, if it was Secret – we would know nothing about it.

Question 3: Does it Benefit the Clintons to be accused of racism?
Answer: No.

Question 5: Is it possible for reasonable unbiased people to readily perceive Bill or Hillary Clinton's remarks as racist?
Answer: No

Question 4: Who does it Benefit?
Answer: Barack Obama.

Question 5: Since the accusations Benefit Obama just prior to the South Carolina elections is it reasonable to conclude the accusations are coming from Obama supporters, Obama surrogates, Obama campaign staffers; some or all of the above.

Question 5: Should reasonable voters Allow anyone to drag race or gender into the civil debate?
Answer: No. Drop it. End of Story.

Ken   January 14th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Go Obama, we are with you all the way!

Elaine Medina, Phoenix, AZ   January 14th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

QUESTIONS about The ...allegations... as reported by the media so far:

Either – Obama supporters, Obama 'surrogates', Obama campaign staff -without the knowledge, consent, and direction of Obama himself with Obama's knowledge & direction – are ....accusing... Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton of: bringing race into it by: making 'secretly coded' racist remarks, making racist remarks, and/or making 'insensitive' remarks that reasonable people could easily percieve as racist.

Question 1: How exceptionally stupid would the Clintons have to be to guilty as charged?

Answer: Unbelievably Exceptionally stupid.

Question 2: If it were indeed possible for the Clinton to believe they could make, and, actually secretly did make 'coded' racist remarks – would we be discussing it?

Answer: No. Obviously not, if it was Secret – we would know nothing about it.

Question 3: Does it Benefit the Clintons to be accused of racism?
Answer: No.

Question 5: Is it possible for reasonable unbiased people to readily perceive Bill or Hillary Clinton's remarks as racist?
Answer: No

Question 4: Who does it Benefit?
Answer: Barack Obama.

Question 5: Since the accusations Benefit Obama just prior to the South Carolina elections is it reasonable to conclude the accusations are coming from Obama supporters, Obama surrogates, Obama campaign staffers; some or all of the above.

Question 5: Should reasonable voters Allow anyone to drag race or gender into the civil debate?
Answer: No. Drop it. End of Story.

John   January 14th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

The way Hillary is acting these days just shows that she doesn't deserve being President of the USA...but the Again, looking at past president, maybe she just fits the mold.... When are people going to actually vote for people not based on the amount of negative press they can bash opponents with.... People who can't win because of what they can provide but because they can discredit other people should be banned from public office.... Sad days we are living in...One day maybe politicians will grow up....or maybe the voters should

Nevada Caucus   January 14th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

The vast, vast majority of the people heading to the Strip caucuses will be the underlings of the Culinary - dishwashers, hotel room maids, cooks, etc. - who are the least paid, and most vulnerable to intimidation. And the Culinary leadership has always used them to organize other hotels and vote for their choices.

The Culinary has full time paid organizers bringing in its masses of members working the low-paying jobs, who will HAVE to raise their hands at the caucus sites for Obama, under the watchful (and threatening) eyes of the Culinary organizers.

I hope those Strip caucus sites receive a lot of media attention because the Culinary's tactics there will resemble something out of the old Soviet Union, when people casting ballots in boxes under the eyes of Communist Party operatives had to use a special-colored ballot for the Communist Party leader, and another type of ballot to vote against him, making it obvious whom that voter was for.

It seems obvious that intimidation will be a factor in the voting process at these precincts. Voters who wish to support a candidate will have to do so in front of the watchful eyes of their union reps. These people can then either dismiss or help them with, an harassment claim, a grievance, forced overtime, unpaid labor, or dangerous working conditions etc. etc.

Many of these workers are also immigrants who are new citizens and have come from countries where voter intimidation is the norm. So, for them, it would also be expected. If they want to support Clinton or Edwards they will just not go, if they even feel they are able to do that and not place their jobs at risk.

People should not be caucusing where they work, unless they have secret ballots, again a central tenet of democracy. It is too open to intimidation. There is too much pressure to vote the way the boss or the union wants you to vote.

I don't think anyone can pretend these polling places would be neutral or unintimidating for those who want to support Clinton or Edwards. Plus many other groups/unions don't get this preferential treatment of setting up special caucus' for a special group, thus others are disenfranchised.

They should be shut down.

Lenny   January 14th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

When will we learn not to trust polls? Polls don't lie, but sometimes people participating in polls do. It might be politically correct to declare your intentions to vote for a minority candidate, but when the curtains are closed, sometimes the best intentions go out the window...

Bob - Michigan   January 14th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Mitt Romney has the least chance of swinging independent voters and winning the General Election. I am a Gulianni supporter and my wife is a Huckabee supporter, but we are both voting for John McCain in the Michigan primary to help get Romney out of the race.

I know that voting for Gulianni or Huckabee are wasted votes in Michigan, so MY WIFE AND I ARE VOTING FOR JOHN MCCAIN IN MICHIGAN TO MAKE A REAL DIFFERENCE!

Guliainni will make his stand in Florida against McCain, but hopefully without Romney's negative ads financed with Romney's personal $$$. George Bush stole the 2000 election with negative ads and look at the mess our country is in now because of him. We don't need another rich guy buying the election with negative ads! We don't need negative Romney ads in this campaign anymore. STOP ROMNEY!

B.C. in Virginia   January 14th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Hillary and her divisive nature.

Obama and his militant church.

Looks like another Republican is taking the throne come next January.

When we will the Democrats learn to nominate someone who is actually electable? John Edwards could beat any Republican in today's political environment. I guess, however, he's just not different enough for liberals. Now I've got to hope McCain wins since he's the least evil of the GOP.

Isaac, Lexington MA   January 14th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I want McCain to recognize the fact that a strong economy IS national security. All McCain thinks about when it comes to national security is bombs and guns. Ok, great. I don't believe the American way of life will end from a bullet, but instead may very well end from a surging China, India, and other nations. America, wake up! The focus should be on the domestic economy. That, 'my friends' (one of McCains wonderful catch phrases) is national security. Romney is the most qualified candidate in either party to get the domestic economy on track.

Roy   January 14th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Ok JR Hudson let's vote for something different. Let's vote for the only candidate who went on record as an anti-black, anti-gay on his newletter. That's Ron Paul.

It is very easy to TALK about new ideas, but what exactly has he ACCOMPLISHED?

Terry, El Paso, TX   January 14th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

JR Hudson says vote for Ron Paul. I didn't think I would ever see it, but Ron Paul might beat Romney. Paul can count on a solid 5% of the voters, and Romney might fall below that figure. Wonders will never cease!

Also, Andy posted: "Have something against Latinos ? is that a racist statement Tom Davie ?"

What you are doing was called mau-mauing in the old days (circa the Johnson administration). It usually refers to raising a false charge of racism in an effort to bluff your opponent down or intimidate him. Britannica says, "Mau-mau: a militant African nationalist movement that originated in the 1950s among the Kikuyu people of Kenya. The Mau Mau (origin of the name is uncertain) advocated violent resistance to British domination in Kenya...." As a verb, it means "to intimidate (as an official) by hostile confrontation or threats."

Andy, I suspect that there is a deep, irrational resentment of Anglos hidden deep in the Freudian recesses of your mind. See? Mau-mauing.

Gene   January 14th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Mitt may have deep pockets but he EARNED IT!.. with hard work and a vision.
He will stun some of you by winning the Presidency.

Jake, California   January 14th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

CNN Obama leads Clinton 2% in Nevada but you don't make this a headline...
Clinton leads Obama by 2% and you make it a headline...

NICE WORK...KEEP TRYING!

On the Democratic side, it’s a three-way race, with Barack Obama at 32 percent, Hillary Clinton at 30 percent, and John Edwards at 27 percent.

Guess   January 14th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Well, if this goes by way of NH, Hillary who was down by 11% and won by 2% should win somehwere edge out Obama somewhere in the ballpark of 16%. Its all guesses.

Marti, San Diego CA   January 14th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

any reason why you haven't posted my comment that I submitted 90 minutes before others that are already posted?

Jake, California   January 14th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Look, by January 26 I don't want to hear anything about Hillary Clinton in this campaign process. Our dear supporters in Nevada please come out on the 19th in your numbers. South Carolina is looking really strong...Obama is at 40% with a double digit ahead Hillary.

If we get Nevada, we can sure increase our margins in South Carolina.
With these two states under out belt, Hillary will be gone.

I have asked my manager to let me work part time till after super Tuesday so that I get the votes out in California and he as enthusiastics as he is about Obie, he didn't hesitate.....
Cali is a delegate rich state and so we want to get the most out of it.

andy   January 14th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Have something against Latinos ? is that a racist statement Tom Davie ?

andy   January 14th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Well This should be another interesting night ? and it looks like they have already started with the Polls! @%#$@#$%@!!! So I hope they checked everything this time and asked everyone ? !

J.R. Hudson   January 14th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Mitt will never win and is just another blanket in the race. Obama and Hillary aren't going to get the vote either due to the countries minority deficiency.

You're seeing your candidate; John McCain.

McCain is exactly the person the Empire wants running the show; good for Military Industrial Complex.

The majortity of American Voters will simply vote for who the Media tells them they should and that will be about constant exposure.

Do something different this time; Vote Ron Paul.

Lauren Bates   January 14th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Who cares about McCain. He is nothing. He has NO support. How many signs do you see for him? How many volunteers does he have? Zero! Americans, get the truth. He is the one determined by the ones who rig the elections. Don't just sit there and take it.

sideon   January 14th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Poor Mitt, the deep-pocketed man of solid convictions.

He could spend three times the money and he still couldn't buy the Republican nomination.

CDR   January 14th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

The OBAMA ’08 Story: This is No Fairytale!

IMAGINE a passionate young scholar organizing for progressive change in the streets of one of the largest and toughest cities in the nation. Imagine a trial lawyer fighting for change and civil rights in the courtrooms for the rights of the common laborer against corrupt industry. Imagine a skilled constitutional law professor equipped with a mastery and knowledge of the protections and the checks and balances of our Nation’s most powerful blueprint: The Constitution. Imagine a State Legislature with 8 years of service who is “…not against war but against dumb wars.” Imagine a junior United States senator, with service on the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, which oversees our nation’s health care, schools, employment, and retirement programs; with service on the Environment and Public Works Committee, which protects our environment and provides funding for our highways, bridges, and levies; with service on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee, which is focused on providing our brave veterans with the care and services they deserve; and with service on the Foreign Relations Committee, which plays a vital role in shaping American policy around the world, including Iraq. Now, Imagine a Leader with the judgment not to mislead this Nation into a dumb war.

Now, IMAGINE CHANGE! Imagine a Leader who can UNITE our Nation and its people. Imagine America’s sons and daughter’s – our heroes… our troops. Imagine them safe and coming back from Iraq. You can only IMAGINE ONE LEADER and that’s no “Fairytale!” However, like a fairytale the good guy ultimately wins and with every vote for Obama you ensure a Hopeful future and a Happy Ending!

-CDR

Tom Davie   January 14th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

This is a caucus, not a primary. I would think Obama would have a higher lead here. But there is a large latino vote to even it out I suppose.

I was certain this was going to be Obamas state.

Since the polls have him by 2%, I guess it really means he or hillary actually have an 80% lead. Lol.

Brenda   January 14th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I guess Nevadians like a gamble.

I'm behind Mitt Romney 100%. He has an impressive record.

He turned around Bain & Co which brink of financial collapse without laying anyone off. He averaged 113% internal rate of return with Bain Capital. He took over the Olympics which was running nearly $400 million in the whole and turned that into a $100 million profit. When he took over as governor of Massachusetts we were $300 BILLION in debt and when he left 4 yrs later there was a surplus. And he LOWERED taxes several times. He worked with the overwhelming liberal legislature and got things done, awarding scholarships to the top 25% in academics so they could go to Massachusetts colleges and universities tuition free. He was thinking green before it became so fashionable this election year. Back in 2002, he proposed a 10 year moratorium on sales tax for hybrid vehicles to boost sales and help the enviroment.

Mitt's record is extensive. He is the only person for the job.

AJ, IL   January 14th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Edwards please drop out. Your presence in this presidential race only helps Hillary, but you don't have the ground support or resources to continue past S.C. Meanwhile, Edwards gives Hillary Clinton momentum and dilutes Obama's support.

Ray   January 14th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Going to be a closs one if we go by this poll in Navada!

Gorbashov, Long Beach, Ca.   January 14th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Good showings in South Caolina and Nevada and Edwards will be primed for a couple of upset surprises come Super Duper Tuesday on Feb. 5th.

John Edwards has the vision, message and is the most electable of the top three Democratic candidates.

Now if the MSM would only give him some coverage we would see his popularity grow!

Edwards/Richardson in 2008!

For those of us who want to see REAL political reform in Washignton John Edwards is our leader!

mike   January 14th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

america must love the clintons and bushs. anybody ever hear of amendment 22?

Ivelisse   January 14th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

after what happened in NH, we know how much importance to give to this "polls"... right, CNN, MSNBC, Fox and others?????????

AJ, Iowa City, IA   January 14th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

So within the margin of error, they are all tied. Good work CNN!

scarlet   January 14th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

We in the Culinary Workers Union will ensure an Obama victory here in Nevada! He represents the workers that have been taken advantage of too long by business owners. We will use our numbers 60,000 strong to get higher wages. It is what we deserve and Obama has promised it.

Viva Obama!

Jack K.   January 14th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

I told you guys not to give up yet!!

There is a message out there. The flames are so intense–even the GOP leaders are responding by trying to establishment themselves as reformist for the middle class.

The original messenger–like Coca Cola "the real thing" is still on message and gaining momentum again.

Yippee!!!!

Let's do another Iowa–but this time come in #1!!!

John Edwards–the Original!

mike   January 14th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

lets hope these polls are true. otherwise everybody buy your back to the future deloreans. the clintons and bushs flux capacitor. dial the flux capacitor to 1975, bush 1 is cia director, dial it up to 1980 bush 1 is vice president, dial it up to 1988 bush 1 is the president, dial it up to 1992 clinton 1 is president and clinton 2 is first lady, dial it up to 2000 bush 2 is the president. dial it up to 2016 chelsea clinton is the president, dial it up to 2024 bush 3(jeb) takes the presidency... michael j. fox would be ashamed of all the back to the future movies that are being portrayed w/o him. run for it marty!!!!

Wayne, Greenville TX   January 14th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Mitt Romney needs to face the fact that his millions cannot buy him this election. He needs to fade into the obscurity he so richly deserves.

PulSamsara   January 14th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Barack Obama TOOK A STAND against the IRAQ INVASION when it MATTERED.

Hillary Clinton PLAYED politics when it MATTERED.

Everything else is just BUNK !

Dan, NJ   January 14th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

John edwards may win this nomination for Hillary Clinton. Splitting the anti-Hillary vote is a vote for Hillary.

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