January 16, 2008
Posted: 02:00 PM ET
Clinton is taking aim at Obama's management style.
Clinton is taking aim at Obama's management style.

(CNN)Hillary Clinton is jumping at recent comments from rival Barack Obama during which the Illinois senator seemed to suggest he isn't exactly a details guy.

In an interview with Bloomberg Television, the New York Democrat said she was "taken aback" by Obama's admission that he wouldn't act like a "Chief Operating Officer" if he was elected president.

"I think it’s important that we have a president who understands that you have to run the government," she said.

Obama told an editorial meeting with the Reno Gazette-Journal Monday that he has a "pretty good sense of my strengths and my weaknesses."

“I don’t think there is anybody in this race who can inspire the American people better than I can, and I don’t think there is anybody in this race who can bridge differences … better than I can," he said. “But I’m not an operating officer. Some in this debate around experience seem to think the job of the president is to go in and run some bureaucracy. Well, that’s not my job. My job is to set a vision of 'here's where the bureaucracy needs to go.'"

Then, at the Democratic debate Tuesday night, Obama seemed to suggest he tends to be disorganized.

"I ask my staff never to hand me paper until two seconds before I need it, because I will lose it. And my desk in my office doesn't look good. I've got to have somebody around me who is keeping track of that stuff,” said Obama.

Speaking Wednesday, Clinton said the presidency requires someone who is "hands on."

"We all need to be inspirational and set goals, and I’ve been doing that throughout this campaign. We need to set big goals for our standing in the world, for our economy, to deal with energy and health care and so much else that is really on the minds of the people who talk to me as I go in and out of their homes, Peter. That’s what they’re talking to me about,” she said.

"After you set the goals and you give the speeches, you go back to the White House and you start holding people accountable and you want to know what they’ve done today to help the American people," added Clinton. "You’ve got to take on this government, you’ve got to run this government, you can’t leave it to others.

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


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elaine   January 31st, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Bill Clinton is now in Canada. Years ago Hilliary came here to find out all of the particulars on our Health care system. Instead of her health care proposal the Americans settled for Free Trade. You dont supose Bill is taking a refresher course.

Garry   January 24th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

I think that people should look at the issues and not just rattle off at the mouth. Some of Obama's seragates have started all of this race and gender talk to take voters minds off the issues. Look at the records and vote! Go Hillary

S   January 20th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

The majority of comments sadly show the age and knowledge level of those commenting. Sad that we don't raise the voting age limit to 40, so we at least have some knowledge of what we are talking about before we comment. This is exactly why we ended up with Bush. We fell for the hype and excitement and entertainment. We deserve what we get when we vote with our emotions rather than what we actually know. Unfortunately Media seems to foster this kind of emotional voting by endlessly giving us their personal views instead of reporting the news. It also shows how easily many of us are influenced by media bias and manipulation. Sadly we are as gullible as many in the media and government think we are.

grace   January 18th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

people keep mentioning hillary's marraige to president Clinton as part of her experience. i even read above that she was "privy" to the workings of the presidency. now ask yourself, did bill and hill really have late night chats about the direction of his policies and did he truly regard her as a confidant or value her opinion. remember this is the woman he cheated on at least once to our knowledge (who knows how many times in actuality) and then vehemently denied being unfaithful to. i'll take a leap and say that they weren't exactly best friends. also consider what bill stands to gain by endorsing hillary weather or not he believes she is the right candidate for the job.

i haven't yet decided who i will be voting for, just wanted to shed some light on that issue.

mcsummit   January 18th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Well what do you expect from this Obama guy.
He's got a track record of voting 'Present' on issues where conviction mattered.
(Oh yes, he did vote 'ABSENT' on the Iran resolution and has the nerve to criticize Hillary for at least casting her vote!!)

An eloquent orator, a sweet sweet talker but HOLLOW!

Once again...   January 17th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Ok. What with his problem with organization and all I wonder how he can remember stuff way back in his childhood. Oh silly me, those things have to do more with memory than with organization, and a few tweaking of fine details won't do any harm…
I do not want a president who is relies on his staff to clean his own desk. I do not want a president who says one thing and does another. I do not want a president who glosses over events in order to sell books.
Anyone but Obama 08
(Preferably Hillary Clinton)

Derek   January 17th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

This is a weak point by Hillary. It highlights that she too has never been a Chief Executive. A Chief Executive would never criticize another Chief Executive for not being a Chief Operating Officer. Way different roles. Good CEOs set strategy, set direction and motivate people to execute them. They give people a roadmap to know how they fit in. They don't operate; they hold others accountable for how they operate.

And people who compare the Obama approach to the Bush approach just don't get it. When you set a bad strategy, you get bad results. Bush = Bad strategy/bad direction. Obama = Good strategy/good direction.

cathy   January 17th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Now that Hillary has "found her voice"…she needs a "mute" button………..

Kshama   January 17th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I am so proud to be an American citizen. I have read most of what is being said about both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Someone pointed out a good idea. Let's have a debate on each person's qualifications and the specifics on some of their policies. Let's all keep an open mind and remember what this election is all about. I trully respect Senator Obama and his abilities as a motivational speaker. I also admire Senator Clinton for her hard work through the years. But, if we should have a debate on just the qualifications, I would like everyone to ask themselves one question. We are talking about voting for the highest office in this nation. We are talking about the leader of the free world. Do not let the media or pop star status of others and their support for one candidate or another, sway your vote. Let's all be real for one minute. Experience and the knowledge of issues are both important. The next President will face these problems: social security, taxes, real estate mess, Iraq war, economy, education, loss of jobs due to outsourcing, illegal immigration,etc…

STOP, SLOW DOWN, AND THINK. WHO DO YOU ENVISION SITITNG IN THE CHAIR OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES THAT WILL SOLVE THESE PROBLEMS-SOCIAL SECURITY, TAXES, REAL ESTATE MESS, IRAQ WAR, ECONOMY, EDUCATION, LOSS OF JOBS DUE TO OUTSOURCING, ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION, ?

The issues we face cannot be solved, by talking, but action. We need someone who has "plans" for the future. Goerge W Bush said we would bring integrity and unite this country. I think most people think it is quite the opposite today. Also, if Senator Obama is elected President, he will most likely surround himself, with those of more experience then himself as would most of the candidates. How is this change in the establishment? Believe it or not, the federal govt is not all bad. There are a few things thay have done that are good for the people. For those that are Hillary Clinton haters, if a debate on just a person's qualifications is considered, I would bet that you would attack her and say she is boasting of her accomplishements, while Barack Obama is above fray and just such an "innocent" in all of this. What are the facts?"

KEEP TO THE FACTS PEOPLE AND LET'S ASK FOR SPECIFIC PLANS FROM ALL THE CANDIDATES, JUST NOT RHETORIC. YOU CANNOT CHANGE THE GOVT THE WAY IT RUNS OVERNIGHT, NOT EVEN IN 4 YEARS. YOU CANNOT EVEN SOLVE ALL OF THE COUNTRY'S PROBLEMS BY TALKING ABOUT IT. WHAT ARE THE SPECIFC PLANS OF EACH CANDIDATE, THAT'S WHAT I WILL BASE MY VOTE ON. THIS RACE IS NOT "AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL" OR "AMERICAN IDOL. " DO NOT LET THE MEDIA BRAINWASH YOU!!!!!

World Citizen UK   January 17th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Good on you, USA!!

Reading your comments today I am greatly encouraged.

Despite the fact that over the last few days, it seemed the debate on who was to be the next president was being hijacked by a section of the public more interested in the race of a candidate rather than the content of their policies, you have risen above the pettiness of the colour of ones skin and not taken the bait.

Congratulations to you all good people!!!

George A. Sanchez   January 17th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

She definitely has no clue what this country needs. We do not need the same old thing in Washington. We need a change in attitude to bring this country together and all she does is attack Obama for insignificant issues. If you want more drama in the White House (92′-2000) then elect the same type of politician. Lets show this type of politician that we've had enough of personal tear-down politics and elect Obama. The American people deserve a President we are proud of-my two cents!

Charlene in VA   January 17th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

MOST OF YOU PEOPLE ON THIS BLOG SOUND VERY CHILDISH WITH COMMENTS LIKE

IF SHE SHOULD WIN THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINATION SHE WILL NOT GET MY VOTE!!
I WOULD RATHER VOTE REPUBLICAN
I WILL NOT VOTE

YOU ARE ONLY HURTING YOURSELF BECAUSE MY TRUE VOICE WILL BE HEARD WHEN I CAST MY VOTE. VOTING DEMOCRAT NO MATTER WHAT!!

ALL OF YOU PEOPLE ACTING LIKE YOU NEVER MADE MISTAKES NEED TO CHECK YOURSELF, YOU GOING TO MAKE A LOT MORE KEEP LIVING SOME YOU MAKE KNOWINGLY AND SOME UNKNOWNLY

Larry   January 17th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

What Hilary seems to be saying is that she is a Micromanager! Everyone hates a micromanager and all they really accomplish is making less productivity. He said twice in the debate that you delegate tasks and hold them accountable.
I mean where do you think this is going to go Hilary supporters even the United States Marine Corps delegates tasks and said that it produces its streght.
Second comment is for the ones compairing delegating tasks as in Obama's case to delegating leadership which is Bush's case. Two very different things and delegating leadership to NeoConservitives got us into this mess. Now Hilary wants to take over the White House and delegate leadership to the old Clinton staff. The exact same thing as Bush except replacing NeoCon's with Neo'Liberals? Throw out the old trash!
Vote for Obama

hbplus   January 17th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Management and Leadership have been confused and collapsed together for years and Management passing for Leadership is at the core of many of our problems. When Management prevails you have a top heavy organization with resources being spent to maintain the status quo. Activities and "talking about" things passes for results and paths for action are reduced to the lowest common denominator to what people can agree on, which is most cases is nothing more than to have yet another meeting to continue "talking about" the issues. When you encounter a situation where reasons, excuses and justifications are passing for results you have a person who is organized around Management thinking they are a leader. You have a Hillary Clinton.

When a person is creating new possibilities for the future and orchestrating the resources to develop the new possibilities into reality, they hand off to Management the things that need to be managed on behalf of bringing stability to the new possibilies. Management becomes the floor upon which you build not the ceiling that prevents productive action.They are responsible for management, they are not Managers they are in fact a Leader. You have a Barack Obama.

The difference in this election is that we have a person who is a Leader with authenticity, integrity and intelligence. The absence of these qualities gives us a George Bush who is not responsble for Management and we have situations like what happened in New Orleans and he leads from his own arrogance and personal agenda into a war that "the people" were against.

Hillary Clinton is the worst possible choice for President. She is fundamentally a Manager and thinks that a hands on approach to moving the deck chairs on the Titanic (and I agree that she does have experience in doing this) will bring about change. She has also demonstrated a "my way" or the "highway" aspect of her personality that could lead us to situations far worse that what Bush has brought us to, Managers who think they are Leaders resort to use of their position and authority to mandate their own way. Giving the positon and authority of President of the United States to Hillary would be a HUGE MISTAKE on the part of the American people.

Really good leaders are visionary, oriented around a possible future, collaborative and appreciate the need for transforming old systems to support new possibilities. They know that bringing new possibilities into existence takes hard work and they can't do it by themselves. They garner support from the people around them to take on new challenges and leverage the strengths of the concerned stakeholders. They provide Leadership and amazing positive results flow from the collaborative efforts. Barack Obama is a really good leader and when I listen to him calling for the support of the American people to take up our challenge of transforming our country I know we have perhaps our last and only shot at turning the corner on what has been our downhill slide as a Nation since the Nixon Administration. Vote for a Leader! Vote for Obama!

Joeley Reno, Nevada   January 17th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

That's all we need in the Oval Office, someone who can't manage "things" efficiently!

Let us not forget, this is an individual whose finger will be on the nuclear button…if Obama wins this election, let's hope he doesn't mistake THAT button for the one he uses to call THAT person who keeps him organized!

So finally we get a true glimpse at the REAL Obama…unorganized and requires a handler!

Wonderful.

This is a quasi Pied Piper situation. Obama spouting rah rah rah, he's the agent of change…with his past performance as a state legislator, his kind of change we do not need.

If you think George W did this country a disservice, wait till the good ol boys in DC get their hooks in this guy who does not view himself as a Chief Executive!

We will have take 2 steps forward in his glorious rhetoric and (if elected), 10 giant steps backward toward a truely puppet president.

Give me a break, Obama is not the choice of the educated or informed.

Larry   January 17th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

What Hilary seems to be saying is that she is a Micromanager! Everyone hates a micromanager and all they really accomplish is making less productivity. He said twice in the debate that you delegate tasks and hold them accountable.

Robert   January 17th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

So many of you people need to have your heads examined. Obama gives a good speech BUT his voting record in the Senate is awful, not the way he votes but the fact that he doesn't show up for votes. He tells you he would lose the disarmament agreement signed by every nation in the world if he held it for more than two minutes and you think it's a wonderful thing.

The biggest complaint that I have with Obama is his promising that he can unite the country OVER AND OVER AGAIN but not how he would do that. Do you do that by compromising on all the things that make him a democrat? If he does, he will alienate his party. If he doesn't, the repugs will just blast him. The fact is, he can't. 30 % of the country is going to hate him, right or left. Some right wing preacher in the South will claim that he drove Jimmy Hoffa out into a Washington DC park in the middle of the night and killed him and half of you nutcases will believe it. Grow up, people. Elect someone who is Presidential, experienced and organized. Let Obama give his speeches to our young people who are rapidly thinking they have no voice in America

Beth   January 17th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Last micro-manager at 1600 was Jimmy Carter and we all know what a fiasco that was. Shrilly Hilly's style is overwhelm and destroy. White House postal workers, stealing FBI files, Madison Guarantee, the list goes on. Try forgettin' is that new drug for Americans who were alert during the 90's and I say an ice cube in a hot cup of coffee has a better chance than that woman. Next time she wants to point fingers she needs to remember, "Physician, heal thyself."

patriot   January 17th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

You know, why is it that when Hillary (and ONLY Hillary) talks about one of the other candidate's weaknesses, she is labeled everything bad under the sun…..but when one of the other 2 viable candidates attack her EVERY SINGLE DAY on EVERY SINGLE ISSUE, they are listened to. You are all so sexist in your reasonings, what the heck is that crap about? Easier to accept a male (of any race/ creed/ ethnicity) that it to accept a strong woman huh? Aren't you all the people that put Bush in the WH for TWO TERMS? Thanks for screwing up the country, so keep up the good work.

HILLARY 08

Eric-Houston, TX   January 17th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

There seem to be a lot of contradictory ideas floating around….Obama says he believes in accountability but then says he won't be accountable for how things are run. OBVIOUSLY the key task for any CEO/Executive is to balance the amount of information that he/she deals with. But, often visionaries don't make good managers and vice versa. The real challenge of the presidency is that you need to have a level of skill at wearing both hats, whether or not you favor one over the other. It's a wonderful thing to inspire, to bring people together, etc. But the job is not Chief Rhetorician or Head Academic….you need to be practical as well.

Anonymous in OH   January 17th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

If you can uplift people and inspire them deeply, they will then uplift themselves to live better lives.

Obama in 08!

John, Pittsburgh, PA   January 17th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

It's painfully obvious that everyone has feelings based on perceptions that cannot be swayed by any of these Presidential debates. Personally, I have not made up my mind, but feel very lucky to have such a strong pool of candidates to choose from. As a country, we need to keep our eye on the bigger picture here, which is the General Election, and just what is it going to take to correct all the wrongs of the last 7 years. All of this hate and vitriol is not going to help us come November. As someone that is undecided, I do have to admit that Hillary far outshined Obama and Edwards when it came to talking about the issues and policies. Her understanding and ability to articulate a clear path to address the big issues is truly impressive. Obama does not seem to have as good a grasp on the issues/policies, and does not seem to have done his homework. There is no substitute for preparation, so from that standpoint, Hillary and Edwards put themselves head and shoulders above Obama as appearing ready to lead this country. It's still early, Obama can still recover. For now, the pack is in front of him, not in his rear view.

Aurora   January 17th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Hillary you are reaching so desperately … you sound like a whiny toddler … We already have Bush the "dumb" president we defintely don't need Clinton the" dumber" president… Obama is smart, he's got style, charisma, class you are beneath him … you can be his assistant manager and hand him all his papers and organize his desk while he's busy uniting the country

CEO equals President
COO equals NOT THE PRESIDENT!!!!

I'm glad you solidified your role in this Presidential Role - Hillary for Obama's Managerial Assistant.

Lisa Hampton   January 17th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

All of you Hillary supporters need to understand the american people are starting to see the Clintons for what they are. A bunch of power hungry, selfish liars. I pray the people in Nevada will see through all of their deceit. Go Obama!

Audrey   January 17th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

I really, truly do not understand the viciousness that comes out of some people when talking about Senator Clinton. It seems to me that whatever she says, people twist it to serve their purpose–hatred. I think it's a legitimate distinction to draw. Believe me, if Senator Clinton said something like this, people would jump all over the statement and tell the world how unqualified she was and how she couldn't possibly be President. I'm so tired of all this vitriol without a reason.

KACEE   January 17th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Clinton supporters are soooo missing the point. Inspirational leadership is getting people to do what you want them to do and making them feel good about it so that they'll keep wanting to work with you. It's called compromise. Clinton hasn't been so good with that, and if her negative campaign against a virtual unknown who came up from so far behind and kicked her butt in Iowa, raised more money than she has in an absolutely phenomenal grass roots campaign is any indication, Obama will be our Democratic nominee.

Hillary Clinton knows that and that's why she's attacking him. You don't go after the person you think you can beat (Edwards), you go after the person you think CAN BEAT YOU. Clinton tries to raise fears about Obama's electability by race baiting, but only proves the point that not only is an Obama presidency possible, but it's probable.

PAY ATTENTION: Obama has been subtly leading his opponents. He hasn't bent his campaign message (CHANGE) to fit anyone else's. But they've bent their message to copy his. He had the VISION when he started to know that that's what the American people wanted. He lead with his message of change and EVERY SINGLE CANDIDATE FOLLOWED. So Hillary Clinton being worried about Obama's ability to lead tickles me.

Frank J. (MO)   January 17th, 2008 11:52 am ET

Experience … how does wife of ex-president, one-term senator plus one year, no-communication skills and a record of mis-judgements sound like as 'experience' ? Crying for votes in a Primary may work (and that is NOT an exclusive female trade) but I don't think you can do that with the world leaders and our enemies.

Billary No Thank You.

As a Democrat I will vote rather for a Republican who can stand on his own two feet (and is not walking in the worn out shoes of a former president).

Frank J. (MO)

gina   January 17th, 2008 11:47 am ET

Does CNN ever report on any of the mistakes, criticisms that Obama makes? If you read CNN everyday it seems that Obama is the "flawless" candidate. The media are obviously hyperfocused on Hillary's imperfections rather than her strengths while they are blind to Obama's imperfections. This is the worst excuse for news I have ever seen. It's turning into the Jerry Springer show. People are entranced with Obama because he's new and inspiring. I can live with either candidate being elected, but I sure wish the media would do their job and find out who he is.

Susan   January 17th, 2008 11:42 am ET

"Hillary/Obama 08! Obama/? 2016
This is the best unbeatable ticket. pls dems don't mess this one up."

So, so true!

I hope we can pull it out…. without imploding over "race."

LaVina   January 17th, 2008 11:42 am ET

As an African American woman, when I look at Hilary all I see is the old Clinton baggage from Bill. I see no morals and same old lies!! For the past, 16 to 20 years we have had the same experience and where has that gotten us! War in Iraq!! Innocent lives lost! Foreclosures! Sinking economy! What else can possible happen? Why do you think Americans are hated so much? Look beyond the US and you will see the hate!! The president of the US is our only representation outside of the US. Everyone should think and see outside the box.

First Bush, then Clinton, then Bush and Bush. Are we about to add Clinton again?? No thanks, other candidates deserve a chance at the Whitehouse, lets see what other presidential candidate can do for Americans. After all, it cannot be any worse than what we are going through currently!!!

Go Obama 2008!!

Micahel Guinn, Ventura, CA   January 17th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Hillary has ONCE AGAIN taken something Barack said and made it to fit HER plan- Talk about a need for CHANGE! Obama 08!

Chris   January 17th, 2008 11:40 am ET

I'm a huge Obama suporter but I can't trash Sen. Clinton for what she's doing right now. She found a weakness and is going after it. It is not completely unreasonable to think that the president should be able to run the day to day ops. Some feel thats the job of a good COS, myself included. But you can't run for president by saying you will put a great staff in place on the 20th.

Chris

joni   January 17th, 2008 11:37 am ET

I think Hillary is consistent and know what she said. no matter what, handling America is not like handling small company, its about the world. so we need the experience person who ready to run and know what America need NOW!!!

Smith   January 17th, 2008 11:36 am ET

What is Hillary Cliton speaking about running a government? Does she know that running a government comes with good judgemental decisions in the white house? Where did she leave her historic vote for the on going war? She did not make good decision at the time when American needed it on sending young men and women to Iraq. She recently gave President George Bush a go ahead to declear war on Iran. Are these good decision in running the white house for the American people. Give me a time, she need not remake history. She need to tell the true to the American people. After she is elected, she will down play the wrongs of the World like her husband did with Ruwanda in Africa. Has she forgotten that her Health Care plan in the 90s did not go anywhere in the country? What new can she do now when we speak of change?

Obama for president '08

Kristin   January 17th, 2008 11:35 am ET

One thing that is blatantly obvious is that Obama's supporters do not think of the world in realistic terms. The economy is going downhill, Iraq is a mess, NCLB has only made at-risk districts worse, and the list continues. Hoping for change with no experience and no real plan is not going to get it done. Obama could be a great President in about 8-9 years. He needs more experience. Americans need to quit focusing on the shell and see the substance that Hillary can provide.

Cookie Spurs Mercy   January 17th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Hello, The Hillary Style. So hard working ah, she aim to get A*. Clinton Economical Stimulus Pack is out already, she kept her sight on Long term and short term solution very fast workaholic women. So fast she move into Merrill Lynch, USB, Citibank Sovereign Wealth Funds arms by Asian Govt for greater transparency. She not tired hor ?? hello, go watch soccer. Recession will be harder and longer if she tinker with the Banks fundings (Answer: Republican John Mac cain)

L.A. Johnson   January 17th, 2008 11:30 am ET

As a Black woman, I never said, "I'm voting for Obama because he's Black." Frankly, I WAS excited about Hillary running and was planning on voting for her.

HOWEVER, after the way she and her husband have decided to take on a negative tone towards Senator Obama, color me completely turned off to her. My friends and relatives agree on one thing: She should have kept it about HER, not her opponents, and she has lost our votes.

BTW, Bill Clinton: You were NOT the First Black President; you were the first president to whom Black people could relate; we liked you. But, you blew it with your recent remarks about fairytales, and we see it as the pot calling the kettle black (no pun intended). IMHO, the biggest fairytale ever told came from YOU when you looked dead into the camera and said, "I did not have sexual relations with that woman!" So, I suggest you stand in the background like a good candidate's spouse, keep your mouth shut, and keep your cigars to yourself!

Once again...   January 17th, 2008 11:18 am ET

I'm not sure why people are attacking Hillary for being a typical politician in a campain. Yes, I said politician and I believe there is nothing wrong with it, because this is politics. Obama is a politician just as much as Hillary, and from what I've seen of the last few days, he is not the saint people think him to be. He is using his supporters and people who hate Hillary Clinton for personal reasons that have nothing to do with the work that she has done for this country, especially for women and children. He plays nice so his supporters and Hillary-haters feel sorry for him and attack her because she is running a campaign. This is what politicians do, people. He stayed mum while people took Clinton's words out of context. He implied that she is a paper-pusher while failing to address his problem with organization.
It's all an effort to get your votes. Please wake up and face the facts that these are campaigns. Obama is not entitled to the nomination or the presidency any more than Hillary is entitled to a coronation.

A.M.   January 17th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Does anyone remember Bill Clinton's retort when asked about John Kerry when he was running for President; he said (about Kerry) "he's not afraid to be in a room full of people that know more about a subject than he does," well let's apply these words to Mrs. Clinton. Wanting to run everything, she would have to be the expert of everything (not) and we will be in the same situation we are currently in. I'd rather follow someone human, but with intellect, has admitted to making mistakes, and is truthful and humble. Mrs Clinton doesn't have any of these qualities. She will be laughed at, marginalized (not because she's a woman though, but because of the person she is) and disrespected by other countries and their leaders (just like we are because of our current president. Obama is the type of LEADER this country sorely needs.

Nathan Smith   January 17th, 2008 11:16 am ET

I hope all the wonderful democrats and independants would come together so Hillary and Obama could come together and truly unite this party so we can dominate this election, remember folks we are ALL in this TOGATHER, Obama and Hillary are on the same team — OUR TEAM they both are 100000000 times better than ANY gop canidate.

Cookie Spurs Mercy   January 17th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Hello, The Obama style ? Leave it, to the Experts. That's why you call them Experts. He hired very smart people to run for him, guys specialize in their own fields Economical Advisors Team A versus Team B. (Answer : Republcian John Mac cain)

Tabitha   January 17th, 2008 11:15 am ET

I find it interesting that people say Clinton should win the democratic nomination because of electability. Most people seem to agree that she can not be trusted and they do not really like her. Why would you want her to win the nomination?!?! I WILL NOT VOTE FOR HILLARY CLINTON!!!!! I DO NOT TRUST HER AND EVEN IF SHE SHOULD WIN THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINATION SHE WILL NOT GET MY VOTE!! I would rather vote republican….

If people want change, then they have to take risks. Barack Obama may not have the experience that Clinton has in our current political sphere, but frankly, I see that as a BIG PLUS!!!

Brandon   January 17th, 2008 11:11 am ET

It is rather insulting that Hillary supporters seek to discredit Obama by accusing his supporters of being young and naive….

What's naive?
-thinking those "tears" form Hillary were real
-thinking she did not want and incite the race debate (what's the number one rule of attack politics, not to respond out of fear of escalation then why did Big Bill go on numerous "black" radio shows to respond to the mythical "attacks"
-Edwards and Clinton's responses to the "negative traits" question. At least Obama had the gull to be honest, Hillary/John both just said essentially "I care too much"…laughable….

Listen, I am still undecided. But, if I am a Hillary supporter I'd be more effective touting her more desirable voting instances and not continuing to draw such stark contrasts between Bush, Republicans, Edwards and Obama. While some of those contrasts may be quite legitimate, they certainly are not warranted. Folks know the differences, be stand-up and tell me what you are for and stop reminding me what you are against.

In summation- people are people. There are some good Dems, some bad Dems, some good Republicans, some bad, Some good Independents, some bad…just because the loudest folks in each party are the ones of least character does not mean that we should willingly abandon half of the electorate.

Natasha   January 17th, 2008 11:09 am ET

LOOK!!!!!!

This is not a family tree of the WHITE HOUSE!!!!!!!!!
Hillary is not a president, she has been in the WH since 1968 I don't think she truly know what change is for America. She could only keep thr circle of trouble going for us. Continue to pay corporate, and friend for their help in scandals. Let's not forget the things she was in a scandal herself. Can we say Watergate……

Mike, Chicago IL   January 17th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Any good leader knows that your job is to steer the ship. You put the right people in the positions below you, and let them do their work.

That's what Obama was saying.

It would be an impossible task for a leader to be involved in the minutia of the day-to-day work and decision making. The higher up the chain you go the more big picture your view needs to be. That's true with any hierarchical organizational structure, be it a Fortune-500 company, a football coaching staff, or the US government.

That's what Obama was saying. He's not hands-off, but he knows where is place is and what his role is. He's saying that he lets his people do their jobs and trusts that they give him the right information that he needs, when he needs it.

It sounds like Hillary will lose the forest through the trees.

james   January 17th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Clinton has 8 years of legislative experience and Obama has 11. Clinton has refused to release her white house records for every one to see. All this will come to light if she manages to become the nominee. The republican party will bring out all her lack of experience, voting records as well as demand for her white house records. Obama is definetely more experience than Clinton based on their records. Clinton thinks she is entitled to this based on her husband achievement. Bill is not running and she should run based on her records. Hillary release your white house records

Pax   January 17th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Hilary, please see a shrink soon. Your defensive mechanisms are breaking down and soon you will be too! Your facial expressions during the debate was that of a woman who is angry, scared, and envious. Truth is not your strong suit.

frank..,VA   January 17th, 2008 11:01 am ET

1. Use bill Clinton to attack barack at least once each day
2. Use very conservative black billionaires and congressman to bring up drugs and race(by repeating the medias message of race) to manipulate white voters emotions.
3. Sue to suppress the culinary union vote, perhaps as much as 60,000 suppressed votes. And then spread a media lie about illegal immigrants voting.

Kevin, Atlanta, GA   January 17th, 2008 11:00 am ET

I don't understand how any can still listen to what Mrs. Clinton is saying. Every time she says something, she is either bashing Obama, or speaking rhetoric that we've all heard too many times by now.

I'm not saying Obama is the best thing since sliced bread either. Although he speaks with intelligence, he doesn't seem to have a firm grasp on what he is talking about.

I personally don't like any of the candidates, and I don't believe in voting for someone I don't want. I will choose not to vote in this election. I stopped caring when I realized that my vote doesn't really matter.

Remember Florida '04? Yea, your vote doesn't really matter…

BILL..RICHMOND,VA   January 17th, 2008 10:58 am ET

AMAZING TRUTH:
If Hillary, Bill, and the Hillary Camp are so confident about Hillary's ability to be president why is it that they feel the need to pull all these underhanded stunts against Obama? The Bible says jealousy is as cruel as the grave and the Clintons really prove this is true

James   January 17th, 2008 10:58 am ET

After reading these comments, the phrase "divided we fall" comes to mind. Instead of attacking Hillary or any Democrat for that matter, shouldn't we be focusing on why a Democrat should be elected verses a Republican? You can support Obama without tearing down Hillary and vice-versa. We're never going to win the general election with all this in-fighting…

Gina   January 17th, 2008 10:57 am ET

bill clinton had ten years experience as a STATE governor before becoming president. Obama has 13+ years as a state and a FEDERAL senator. this experience talk is ridiculous.

darrell   January 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

Hillary know not what she is doing. in her clear thought, she would act in a respectfull way to fellow Dems. Hillary could be a great asset to Dems. we need Dem Votes.

Obama Offers a mesage of Hope, not beliefs of fears. The democratic turn out has been motivated by his message. Even the women of N.H. came out to vote for Hillary and Obama, because of his Message.

Matt, New York Ny   January 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

She's really scraping the bottom of the barrel for issues now. Wow.

That being said, I think it's refreshing how honest Obama is. Tell us how it is - admits to a real human flaw, like not being naturally organized, and doesn't play that "try to make it sound positive" game like Edwards and Hillary played.

In my opinion that expresses such real human leadership. It's just what the country needs and hasn't seen in a long time - maybe ever.

Bruce Taylor   January 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

It will be interesting to see how Senator Clinton manages the fact she has been caught by Senator Obama in the national poll.

Joann for Hillary!   January 17th, 2008 10:55 am ET

I guess I should not be surprised at all of the Obama supporters. Let's just look at the spin talk of a another politician and what this country has turned into. His name, Geroge W Bush. He talked his talk and got elected. So all you Obama followers, keep following the pied piper and the rest of us will support the best candidate, Hillary!!

justwaitandsee   January 17th, 2008 10:54 am ET

WHO CARE ABOUT HILLARY….SHE IS A LIAR AND A FAKE….SHE WOULD SELL HER SOUL TO THE DEVIL IF IT MEANT SHE WOULD GET ELECTED…..SHE DISTORTS OTHERS RECORDS BECAUSE SHE CAN'T RUN ON HER OWN…

"Hillary Clinton has sponsored 350 bills since Jan 22, 2001, of which 304 haven’t made it out of committee (Very Poor) and 2 were successfully enacted (Average, relative to peers)."

SHE IS ONE ACCOMPLISH POLITICIAN….AND HER RECORDS SHOWS IT.

Gerald C, Madison, WI   January 17th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Someone here earlier said it well. Hillary's managing abilities would make her a great VP or, in my opinion, Senate Majority Leader. However, the office of President calls for the vision and leadership that a CEO provides. I don't think the American people see this as a major deficiency in Obama. If our President can have a tendency to engage in sexual behavior with his interns, than our President can certainly lose a paper or two.

Greg   January 17th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Bottom line is Hillary will never be president, she wont get my vote and she will rally the republicans, a vote for Hillary in the primaries is a vote for the Republicans in November. If she is on ticket in 08 Im writing in Gore :P and my wife is voting republican. Obama is honest and electable in a general election.

Thought   January 17th, 2008 10:49 am ET

I cannot take another, Liar, too uptight, too corporate, too much business suit idiot in the White House, Thank you. Cant vote for Hillary because she can't even keep her family in check how can she keep America on path? Her being the wife of Bill hot pants Clinton doesnt make her more experience than anyone else in this race, next thing u know Chelsey Clinton thinks she is experience to be President.

All you Hillary fans, you are just basing your vote on she is a woman big deal Im a woman too, bu hillary got no balls, shes a fruitcake, she copy all the candidates, she has no plan, her best plan is to attach, she thought this race was going to be easy because people would look at OBAMA as another Perm gone bad Sharpton, did she ever get kicked in the butt. haha

Cant Vote for Edwards, the man havent said a word throughout the campaign, What are his plans, what is he gonna do, Good lord man speak up, u need a micrphone or something.

OBAMA 08

Knowledge is Power   January 17th, 2008 10:38 am ET

After reading the comments from the general public, it is a shame that the people use this media to take cheap shots at their leaders. It would be far better if you show the rest of the world that you can demonstrate smart debates on the websites.
Knowledge is power

TJR   January 17th, 2008 10:38 am ET

A lady president would be great, but not this one. Please not this one. Send in Obama. I at least feel at ease when he is at the helm. For some reason, and I can't explain why, I get the feeling that Clinton doesn't have the best interest of our nation as a motivating factor for running for the presidency. I honestly think Obama has that as the strongest driving force behind him. Most importantly, Obama knows why he is running and is quite sure of himself. On the other hand, Clinton is unsure as to what she should portray herself as. Clinton: you could do all the tricks in the world but deep down I cannot vote you for because intuitively I feel like I would be doing this nation a great disservice if I did so. Thank you for all your service so far and I hope you have an amazing career in the Senate, but the moment belongs to Obama. Let him lead this nation now. You will have plenty of time later to take on the Republicans.

Jay   January 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Bill anb Hillary, why didn't you do something about Osama Bin laden, knowing that he attacked us at the same world trade center in 93, our embassy in Kanye and our USS Cole Army ship. All these attacks happened under your watch. Why should we think you can keep us safe now.

Connie   January 17th, 2008 10:32 am ET

Hillary is a seducer. She's seducing the people of America into a major trap. They are obsessed with the white house . Eight years were not enough for them they want more. As an independent, I will make sure to vote for a Republican and suggest that to all my friends to do the same.

Wilhemina   January 17th, 2008 10:23 am ET

My God have mercy on us!, corporations would not hire Hillary since Clintongate, and that is probably why she is so desperate (both Clinton's for the White House), imagine the favors she owes for running, and the lies they told to convince special interest groups they would win. Barack is constantly getting death threats against his life and his family. Do you think anyone is threatening the Cllinton's. Hillary never answers a question with a straight answer, she acts like she is in court, and she is so transparent you see her trickery coming . The Clinton's do not have a strategy for helping us fix America, their plans are to get in the White House and have access to distribute hugh lots of funds to their backers and themselves. Barack plans to make our government transparent , so that we will know (not told) where are monies go, and how much. Hillary copying "Change" theme, she really lacks coping skills and esteem. We have plenty of women who would be great presidential material, Hillary is not such a woman, and her husband Bill…well we know, we all know. So voting for them means (take a cue from the Judge who will put OJ in jail) either you are arrogant or ignorant or both!!!.

Sam   January 17th, 2008 10:22 am ET

For all those swooning over Obama's Harvard education:

Hillary Clinton was "valedictorian of her Wellesley class and chose Yale over Harvard Law School after a cocktail party run-in with a chauvinistic Harvard professor."

Jay   January 17th, 2008 10:18 am ET

The Obama/Bush "vision" approach to management is how we ended up with messes like FEMA - an incompetent agency with no standards of accountability!

Hillary '08!

adam   January 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

I'm sick and tierd of 3 terms of bush and two terms of clinton and for sure not a third one.

Go OBAMA

Constantly Amazed   January 17th, 2008 10:13 am ET

Hard to believe some of you will actually be allowed to vote…

Ben (Las Vegas)   January 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

What's up with all the Hillary bashing without anything to substantiate what your saying? Other than all the media bashing, I seem to remember the last Clinton adminstration being a hell of a time for America… That wasn't by chance. Let's leave emotional responses out of this. And, what's so great about Obama being the "big picture" guy… Does no one remember the last "big picture" guy… George Bush??? Get a clue people, read between the lines and stop being so blinded by all the feel good crap out there. "Big Picture" is just an excuse to get people to vote for you when you admit your short on experience. Your blasting one political tactic and giving the farm away to another. Too much at stake here to be naive.

sant   January 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

People the devil is in details. I can come up with million things, ideas etc. the problem is to make them work. Doesn't america understand that presidents are engineers not philosophers. You cannot just give views on policy, education, healthcare etc. without making small changes, going into the details of these.

stefan   January 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

SHAME ON YOU CNN. ALL YOU POST IS CLINTON HATER POST THIS COMMENTS. IF YOU ALL PEOPLE DO NOT HAVE ANYTHING GOOD TO SAID THEN SHUT YOUR YOU KNOW WHAT.

Concerned Citizen   January 17th, 2008 10:08 am ET

My vote will certainly go to the Republicans if HRC ever emerges as the DEM nominee because we do not need a leader like her

voter in ark   January 17th, 2008 10:07 am ET

Did anybody else notice Hillary's quote at the end of the article?

"After you set the goals and you give the speeches, you go back to the White House and you start holding people accountable and you want to know what they’ve done today to help the American people"…

Isn't that exactly what Obama was saying?.. That he couldn't hold everyone's hand as president? That he would leave the details to those he would delegate to?

Obama has more experience in elected office than Hillary…

He has more "grass roots" experience dealing with communities that many of these candidates are afraid to even enter

He is honest about how he intends to approach the presidency, not being concerned with symantics.

OBAMA '08!

sant   January 17th, 2008 10:04 am ET

American people understand that Barack Obama's presidency will be a disaster. America will loose its position in the world. Franly speaking Americans may be enamored by Obama but to a foreigner he looks as a preacher without any concrete ideas and objectives. He already proved to be a novice almost to the point of being dumb when he made some remarks about Pakistan.

Justin Tyme   January 17th, 2008 9:53 am ET

My advice to Hillary, "Distance yourself from Obama! The more people measure you up against him, the more they discover how much more Obama outshines you".

Hillary would be better off picking on Kucinich or some other fellow.
It's just like a toy dog yapping away at a St. Bernard or a mule trying to make a fun of a Clydesdale horse.

Justin Tyme   January 17th, 2008 9:45 am ET

If for any reason there appears to be a take away from this CNN political ticker, I think it is the fact that Obama comes accross as a REAL person, as for Hillary she's assuming divinity here - absolute perfection.

I certainly don't want an "Angel" running the US government, we need to know how real these candidates are, NOW, and not later. If any thhing, Obama has made that clear to all Americans. Confessing to mistakes of drug use publicly - that's character! If I recall accurately, a certain Clinton lied even under oath - how shameful!

pablo   January 17th, 2008 9:43 am ET

Hey stop the bashing here and there,we all know what type of CEO Hillary can make….one that cant work without good old Billy and both have all the stock shaking scandals from Iraq war to white water.Obama is the man we only hope that the Electrol Commission of Kenya (ECK) wont be hired to oversee the American vote

Samantha   January 17th, 2008 9:43 am ET

I think people need to wake up and realize there are other candidates running for president besides these two who seem to keep getting all the media attention. Edwards is a real voice for change in this country. He has experience and he has the fight in him to fight for change. After running last term and not being able to get the nomination and accepting the bid for VP, he's back again, fighting even harder. The problem is that no one notices because CNN (and every other national media station) is too busy reporting about stupid spats between Hillary and Obama.

As much as I think it's fantastic that a woman is running for President, I don't think Hillary is right for the job. She's politics as usual and as someone stated before, if she gets it then it's been Bushes and Clintons since 1988. Is that what this country really needs? Would this be the change that everyone wants and desparately needs?? And I like Obama, but I think he's too inexperienced. He'd make a great VP for John Edwards and then could run for President in 2016.

Edwards is the man for the job and because the media isn't covering him much, no one seems to know that he's there. But he is there and he wants to fight for change in America. He has the passion to help move change forward. Please everyone, stop arguing over stupid things that the media creates and focus on who really is the best person for the job. Good to see there are a few Edwards supporters making comments here.

EDWARDS 08, EDWARDS 08, EDWARDS 08!!!!!!!!!!!

No to Status Quo   January 17th, 2008 9:38 am ET

Hillary is a throwback to the old way of doing things. Is she going to micro-manage? Any CEO will tell you that's an awful way to manage.

We need new ideas, new management style, new blood!

Her continuous Obama-bashing only serves to increase her own negativity ratings.

ABH

Dennis   January 17th, 2008 9:38 am ET

Probably voting for Hillary in the Primary

I say probably because the Democrats have so many excellent choices.

william walsh columbus ohio   January 17th, 2008 9:37 am ET

the facts are shes a self made leader that knows it does take hands on ,you people who dont think so probly voted for bush ,while he was out front watering his flowers his backyard was on fire, you better get a grip on someone who has this countrys issues at hand and not some dream land, like the past 7, go figure it out!!! nice looking people who talk about how wonderfull life could be, are not in reallity, its a ruthless hard ball arena, if you can survive this far in the goverment ,add that your a women, you better grow up and understand what it calls for to be president of this country,your so used to having an idiot in office you think a nice talking guy going or can change things in a few mo? wake up!! it took yrs to get this screwed up it will take yrs more to fix it, hrc is the only person who is that dedicated to all of this country, obama would ge lost in this position, give him a few yrs and see where he stands then, if hes still here and has fought tooth and nail on his position then elect him, but for now we need repair, that knows how its run, you dont call a plummer to fix a broken leg no matter how nice he is,

Mane   January 17th, 2008 9:34 am ET

i was an unorganized person myself(which is basically what barack obama stated about himself) and untill i got to the point that it messed up all my life i didn't really realize it was that bad. but it was. and i honestly do'nt think that someone who's gonna have to get another person to do all the minor(if u could call it minor) tasks for him, should be elected a president. a leader has to have a good hold of what he's operating. i'm really sure about the other candidates but obama doesn't look like a president to me

TH3   January 17th, 2008 9:33 am ET

Mrs. Clinton, what was that little realastate deal you and your husband had, that went belly-up. I guess you had hands on with that.

Tom - Dedham, Mass   January 17th, 2008 9:33 am ET

Tom Davies, again you need to be reminded that Bill Clinton is not running for President and he will not be "her" vice President.

The subject here is organization skills of the two CANDIDATES and one has the guts to admit that he sometimes is disorganized and the other one jumps all over it as it appears that he is showing a crack in his armor.

One must ask, why did she NOT read the NIE report BEFORE making the BIGGEST decison a politician can make?

She now says that she had "people brief her on the report", whom exactly?

If she is so hands on as she makes it seem, why did she not vet an $850,000 bundler (Hsu) or the asian dishwashers who were giving up 10 percent of the yearly salary while living at PHONY addresses?

Why did it take so long for the Rose law firm papers to show up on a nightstand (after two years) covered with HER fingerprints?

Here's what the New York Times reported on March 17, 1992: "Hillary Clinton said today that she did not earn 'a penny' from state business conducted by her Little Rock law firm and that she never intervened with state regulators on behalf of a failed Arkansas savings and loan association. . . "

Records will show that she did, in fact, represent Madison before the state securities department. After the revelation, she says, "For goodness sakes, you can't be a lawyer if you don't represent banks."

Number of times Hillary Clinton says "I don't recall" or its equivalent in a statement to a House investigating committee: 50. Number of paragraphs in this statement: 42.

Doesn't sound too organized to me, sounds more like a lying, conniving politician that will do and say ANYTHING to gain power.

paul   January 17th, 2008 9:32 am ET

Forgive Obama for giving a candid answer. Hilary wouldnt know anything about that would she? He tells us his greatest weakness is his occasional disorganization, and her response? She cares too much. Can she please just put a sock in it? I would never even consider voting for her.

pops   January 17th, 2008 9:21 am ET

Can you people out there in Nevada hear me? Pleeeeaassee Can you good people put a stop to Hillary once and for all. This woman says she has been around for 35yrs why the heck she did'nt do something sooner. Just stop the lies alreadyHillary. Enough is enough. I still cannot pay my bills including my wife's health insurance. You can never relate to the middle class.

ohmygosh   January 17th, 2008 9:10 am ET

How about some truth Hilary? You just decided to run for president a year ago! and that war vote of yours was just like opposing the war, wasn't it.!
We have enough of the deceit and misconceptions for 8 years now and you would only be a continuation of it.

SPQR753   January 17th, 2008 9:00 am ET

I may be missing something, but after the catastrophic decisions of the present Administration, we surely do not need another President relying on advisers.

The next President will need to be hands-on. On top of the normal daily duties, she/he must repair the damages done by the present Administration.

Must bring back the three Branches of Government to their Constitutional status, strip the the Vice President Office of any Czarist desire to "invent" new Presidential powers.

Will also have to bring back the Economy on an even keel.

In short: a monumental repair work has to take place.

Obama is truly inspirational, but for now there is a need for a hands-on President.

Barack will be a fantastic Presidential Candidate around 2017 when he will have more MATURITY maturity and EXPERIENCE!!!

Jason Philadlphia   January 17th, 2008 8:53 am ET

How gave a honest answer? Who gave the answer you wanted to hear?

Obama 08′

Alyssa   January 17th, 2008 8:52 am ET

You Barack supporters need to get your facts right. Barack had never taken a stance on anything important in congress, and instead votes as "present" so that no one can bring up his record. Obama believes in change, but can any of you actually tell me what his policies are? There is no substance behing anything he says, and if you actually read his plans you will see. We in Mass voted for "change and hope" in Deval Patrick, and a year later he has done nothing he has promised. Instead he got an expensive car, spent state money on his wife, and left the state to campaign for Obama. Hope can only get you so far, and it got us nowhere in MA. So instead of voting for someone you just like, vote on the issues.

Mamoon Yunus, Boston, MA   January 17th, 2008 8:51 am ET

Vito - I read the article "Obama's Varied Record" and it truly shows who has the better experience. Some people are doers and some are braggers that havent done much but take credit for things. I highly recommend this article.

James Brown ( Independent )   January 17th, 2008 8:28 am ET

Democratic presidential rival Hillary Rodham Clinton points to his resume as evidence that Obama is not ready for the White House. "He was a part-time state senator for a few years, and then he came to the Senate and immediately started running for president," she says dismissively.

Obama's accomplishments are more substantial and varied than Clinton suggests. And he has a longer record in elected office than she does, as a second-term New York senator.

Obama was a community organizer and led a voter-registration effort in Chicago that added tens of thousands of people to the rolls. He was a civil rights attorney and taught at one of the nation's premier universities. He helped pass complicated measures in the Illinois legislature on the death penalty, racial profiling, health care and more. In Washington, he has worked with Republicans on nuclear proliferation, government waste and global warming, amassing a record that speaks to a fast start while lacking the heft of years of service.

The Illinois Democrat likes to quote something Bill Clinton once said: "The truth is, you can have the right kind of experience and the wrong kind of experience. Mine is rooted in the real lives of real people, and it will bring real results if we have the courage to change."

After college, Obama moved to Chicago for a low-paying job as a community organizer. He worked with poor families on the South Side to get improvements in public housing, particularly the removal of asbestos.

"Nobody else running for president has jumped off the career track for three or four years to help people," said Jerry Kellman, who first hired Obama as a community organizer.

Obama also fought for student summer jobs and a program to keep at-risk children from dropping out of school. More importantly, say those who worked with Obama, he showed people how to organize and confront powerful interests.

"He had to train residents to stand up for their own rights," said former organizer Loretta Augustine-Herron, who was part of Obama's Developing Communities Project.

Obama left that job to get a law degree. Afterward, he returned to Chicago and ran Project VOTE. The organization recruited hundreds of registrars to sign up new voters, particularly within the city's black population. Registration jumped nearly 15 points between the 1992 primary and the general election.

The registration wave was credited with making Carol Moseley Braun the first black female senator and helping Bill Clinton carry Illinois in his first presidential race. It also got insiders talking about Obama as a political candidate.

Obama then spent several years focusing on the law, both as an attorney at a small firm specializing in civil rights and as a lecturer on constitutional law at the University of Chicago.

As an attorney, he was on the team that successfully sued the state of Illinois for failing to implement a federal voter-registration law. Obama also worked on case of a whistle-blower who lost her job after exposing waste and corruption in a medical research project. The whistle-blower ended up with a $5 million settlement.

Obama was elected to the Illinois state Senate in 1996, when Democrats were in the minority. He proposed hundreds of new laws, including universal health care, tougher gun control and expanded welfare, but saw most of them spiked by Republican leadership.

He did have some successes, though — particularly in passing legislation sharply restricting the gifts that Illinois politicians could accept from lobbyists. Illinois has notoriously weak government ethics laws, and the Gift Ban Act was the first major new restriction since the Watergate era.

Obama also helped set up Illinois' "KidCare" program that provided health care to children in families that did not qualify for Medicaid.

John Bouman, president of the Sargent Shriver National Center on Poverty Law, said Obama's work helped make the program more consumer-friendly. He also said Obama was often willing to give up credit for the legislation if that helped win Republican support.

"It tells you something that as a relatively junior member in the minority party, he was an important negotiator," Bouman said.

When Democrats gained a majority in the Senate, Obama's political mentor, Senate President Emil Jones, gave him high-profile assignments, including two contentious issues involving police — videotaped interrogations and racial profiling.

Police weren't happy about recording their interrogations of murder suspects or having to study racial bias in traffic stops. Initially, they opposed both pieces of legislation.

But Obama made clear that something was going to pass with or without their support. Ultimately, police groups endorsed both bills and they won unanimous approval in the Senate.

Obama was generally regarded as an effective and practical, although decidedly liberal, state lawmaker. One of his Republican colleagues was so wowed that he has appeared in an Obama campaign ad, but others aren't impressed by his legislative record.

"I would say it was run of the mill, honestly," said Sen. Christine Radogno, R-Lemont, who entered the legislature at the same time Obama did.

Obama was a part-time state senator in that he served in the Illinois legislature at the same time he practiced law. He became a state lawmaker in 1997, four years ahead of Hillary Clinton's entrance into elected office, as U.S. senator.

When Obama was elected to the U.S. Senate, he said he wished to get things done rather than grab headlines, and cited Hillary Clinton as the sort of workhorse he wanted to be.

He teamed with Sen. Richard Lugar, R-Ind., to study the dangers of nuclear proliferation and pass legislation meant to keep nuclear material from falling into the hands of terrorists.

Obama also joined with Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., after Hurricane Katrina to improve oversight of federal spending.

And he shared billing with a Republican presidential hopeful when he joined Arizona Sen. John McCain in sponsoring legislation that called for sharp, mandatory cuts in greenhouse gas emissions. The effort failed.

roger ny, ny   January 17th, 2008 8:26 am ET

In future it means that YOU can not criticize Obama for anything else you know what you will called RACIST. During Bush administration most used word was Terrorist. If Obama gets ahead it is going to be racist. It is shame that one can't even criticize anyone.

d.a.   January 17th, 2008 8:22 am ET

Everytime Obama supporters start to diss Hillary for what she says, you are a reflection on the canidate you 'HOPE' to have in the highest office in the land, and every blog on every news website has the same tone, you all sound childish. Granted most people on the web are young, and you certainly reflect it. Until your 'Obama' is perfect in his run for this office, and there is proof that he isn't, why don't you try to improve your image and help your canidate. OH, THATS RIGHT, OBAMA USES YOU TO SLING THE MUD, SO HE CAN SAY 'HE HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH IT'.

Jojo   January 17th, 2008 8:22 am ET

Hillary consistently gets it wrong.
She voted for the war. Obama stated he's not against war but he is against dumb wars. She voted for the bankruptcy law change. Obama didn't. He saw throught the merk.
We can't afford to go through another 8 years of Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton madness. THe world can't take it.
Don't believe the hype people..

Chuck, Miami Fl   January 17th, 2008 8:14 am ET

In the debate Hillary made Obama and Edwards look like newbies. She had a plan for every issue. I dont know if this is good or bad but it makes Obama and Edwards look weak.
Chris Matthews was kissing her ass after the debate and that shows she kicked everyones ass.
Sorry Hillary haters but she is making your boys look like newbies.

Ana, Alaska   January 17th, 2008 8:08 am ET

I agree with Senator Obama's view regarding the qualities that a true leader should have. In my opinion, every leader has her/his own strengths but the bottom line is: can that leader govern a country? Can that leader empower the people so they can help him/her make a difference? or should a leader worry about being detail oriented? Amazing! I cannot believe this is a topic of concern.

Senator Obama is right; Mr. George Bush is a well organized President, he is always on time and is detail oriented. Has that skill helped him as the leader of this great nation?

It is perfectly clear that Senator H. Clinton is looking for windows of opportunity to get Senator Obama to react and fall on his face; but that 'poker chief' is too smart to fall for it. Senator Obama impresses me. A young, intelligent, eloquent, down to earth and sincere man can make the 'experienced' Hillary and the rest of the candidates worry.

My vote goes to Senator Obama; the creator of the topic for this 2008 Presidential campaign: CHANGE ~ Si se puede! Yes, we can!

Lydia   January 17th, 2008 8:06 am ET

I'm really tired of hearing so much discussion about Hillary's experience. Being married to the president does not count as your own personal experience. So let's be honest about the experience issue. The 35 years of experience that Hillary touts at every opportunity is 35 years of work experience period. Her only political experience has been her years in the Senate. Does Obama have fewer years of experience than Hillary? Yes, of course he does. But that is not a big deal. She has lived longer.

Nelson   January 17th, 2008 8:05 am ET

To Mr Rudy Tiggs, Riverside, CA How many years do you suggest we play this same tune Clinton/Bush? Do you know that Hillary was given the assignment to fix Health Care while her husband was president.

You know that single functions are general exercised by single cell organisms, not Humans. For 8 years one responsibility, …don't worry she will fix it, this time as president because she has nothing else to worry about.

Here is my beef with all of this, — I voted for Clinton , twice — and that is enough, the greed is incredible, change is generally introduced by a new comer, not an old dog.

You want something to change, well who can bring that change someone who has 35 years of experience on that same broken system, who has indirectly been placed in the highest position of that same system and changed nothing or an individual that made the choice to fight for his state instead of choosing to be a millionaire, Obama had a choice and he chose the people of his state. Now he chooses us the people of this country.

Obama/Edwards for the white house!

george   January 17th, 2008 8:02 am ET

Hillary keeps harping on Obama's inexeperience. What is her experience either
in public or private life. The only exeperience she has is being married to an
adulterous and sex-maniac former president. Does this experience qualify you to
be president?
Infact if Hillary wins the democratic race, it will republicans in the white house in 2009.

george

cyrille   January 17th, 2008 7:56 am ET

THE TRUTH BE TOLD!!!
If she truly read the NIE report….she wouldn´t have voted for the Iraq war.

She voted because she wanted to satisfy the interests of the Lobby groups behind her.

People….do some reading!!!

Common´

Loyola   January 17th, 2008 7:55 am ET

Well, Ms Clinton needed some one to pass her a note two seconds before she commented on the Pakistani election. She suggested Musharaf should not stand, and wow - these elections are parliamentary and not presidential - therefore Musharaf is not eligible anyway. Shows how little she learned in her manufactured 35 years of service.

cyrille   January 17th, 2008 7:54 am ET

Obama has proven he can lead people!!! if only u can check his biograpy.
this what Ghandi said : ,, first they ignore you,then they ridicule you,then they fight you,then you win,,

and this is just true!! i wonder if Clintons have nothing elses to do as to wait day long for an Obama Comment and then criticize it. Are they so bored?
Whether u like him or not, FACTS speaks for themselves. This is a gentle man with a relatively poor background who is inspiring America today. No One knew of Obama. But today his name is constantly on Clinton´s mouth.

I wish u could take some time out and visit his web site and read about what he has to offer.

There´s a lot u can learn from this guy!!! He is saying
YES i don´t have the experience according to your standards
YES i´m not perfect

But i can motivate YOU,i can Inspire YOU that´s why Young people identify with him.

Young people are fade up with all knowing,all perfect 60er people who don´t want to listen to them,to their problems but are only interested to put loads on them.

Lewis Phillips   January 17th, 2008 7:51 am ET

I could never vote for Hillary Clinton after seeing how ruthless she has gotten.
I probably would'nt have voted for her anyway, but after she arrogantly stated
that LBJ did more for civil rights than Dr. Martin Luther King ever did, she showed her true color.

Jakemond   January 17th, 2008 7:50 am ET

We should all cherrish the right to "opine" freely without the fear of being incastrated (jailed) for expressing our subjective opinion. May the best candidate with better vision and inspiration for America's future win!

Ready For Change   January 17th, 2008 7:49 am ET

Hillary's biggest weakness is her fear of losing to Obama. She is being dominated by this fear and is focused only on herself, not the American people. Everyone please take a minute to ask yourselves why are the Clintons SOOOO ANGRY. They say they have nothing against Obama and Bill Clinton said he admires him, but they talk like they want to kill him. If Hillary, Bill, and the Hillary Camp are so confident about Hillary's ability to be president why is it that they feel the need to pull all these underhanded stunts against Obama? The Bible says jealousy is as cruel as the grave and the Clintons really prove this is true.

Like others, I also want to know exactly what is all this experience Hillary claims to have? She always talks about 35 years…35 years of what??? She was a lawyer and first lady and now a Senator… What experience??? Think about it people! 35 years of Hillary Clinton and still NO CHANGE!!!!

Do we really want another cold, calculating, stubborn, bull headed, fake, my way or no way President …because this is what Hillary Clinton offers. Any vote for Hillary will be regreted. I was planning to vote Democratic regardless of who won the Democratic ticket, but after all the underhanded things Hillary has done in the race I have decided not to vote at all if she is the Democratic nominee. She is CRUEL and I can't vote for her.

femi   January 17th, 2008 7:47 am ET

Hilary should just focus on her campagn and leave obama, she is fighting dirty that is not what Americans need now, they have a president that does that already

cyrille   January 17th, 2008 7:43 am ET

What experience does she have again? that of her Husband!!! People we are electing Hillary and not BIll don´t get it confuse!!

O.k since u want to think Bill = Hillary and start talking about Experince,let me tell u that Honesty,Loyalty and excellence. We need a president with Integrity,somebody witha a vision and positivity. Hillary or Billary does not have these qualities.

First u look in the Camera and declare:,, i didn´t have sex with this woman,, and then say what after….

this makes me know these people are power hungry people. She ain´t honest people.

I work in high management and during our interviews,we avoid people who sound perfect because they are mostly not teachable;and that´s where Hillary fits.My CEO is a leader who gives direction and guidelines.It´s not his job to clean his desk or to know where x files arefound at the time x. He has a team of loyal people who carry on with the vision and make sure that the people under them understand what the CEO needs.
My CEO knows how to inspire us.Please do understand that a person who has many corporations and issues under him doesn´t have time for details. From time to time he makes sure that his collaborators know he cares about them.

bill   January 17th, 2008 7:42 am ET

hillary–just keep it up. people are tired of your attacks–for someone who is supposed to be so smart you're acting pretty stupid. obama is way smarter than you. keep attacking please so that you will not get the nomination–go barack

Joseph, NY, NY   January 17th, 2008 7:32 am ET

You Obama people are blinded by his pretty words and can't see the truth or the facts, I would really like to know how many of you actually saw the debate, because if you actually saw it and if you had any intelligence you would realize that Hilary is smaller and more focused on the issues.

And yes management is very important in business, government and in anything else in life for that matter. The fact that you people don't believe it is just confirms your ignorance.

Howard   January 17th, 2008 7:20 am ET

Obama & Clinton?

Weel, its pretty self explanatory, Clinton needs the same old game, and We Americans knows it all.

Am proud of OBAMA, he his a Magic Negro.

Go OBAMA

Am a white man, and never support a black man in any politics activities before, But OBAMA Convince me… Thank You.. Go OBAMA

Howard

esexy   January 17th, 2008 7:18 am ET

i have always loved the clitons for their die hard attitude but immediately my barrack came on board i knw where my loyalties lie what i would really likeis for clinton to stop talking about all the bad tins baacck has done or his wrong policies and talk about what she cando for her country .i am a nigerian but am so involved inthis election that istay upall nite to watch cnn.

OBAMA IS THE BEST
LOVE YOU TO PIESCES

CeeJay   January 17th, 2008 7:18 am ET

I DON'T TRUST WOLF BLITZER AND THE OTHERS IN CNN ABOUT THIS ELECTION.tHEY FAVOUT HILLARY MORE THAN ANY OTHER CANDIDATE.THEY ALL ARE BIASED.

DMW, Roeland Park, KS   January 17th, 2008 7:16 am ET

Hillary is right; you can not just say "I want to inspire you' and then go on to something else; you need to check out the results of your inspiration. Ideas without any results are wasted.

charlotte   January 17th, 2008 7:16 am ET

One thing I'm happy about, whomever the next president might be , it won't be GW!!
Can we all agree with that? Impeach both Bush and Cheney so that one can't pardon the other….

CeeJay   January 17th, 2008 7:15 am ET

From the abundance of his heart,Obama spoke when he talked of being disoganised.Who does not have a weakness?Atleast he spoke the truth and thats the difference between him and Hillary C.She does not look real before my eyes when it comes to answers about topics.Its only people with bad mind will run down somebody for speaking the truth and absolve the other that tried not to speak the truth for fear of condenmnation.The Clintons think that the white house is theirs for ever.Let Chealsea start warming up after Hillary.

What really matters   January 17th, 2008 7:09 am ET

Hillary Clinton is jumping at recent comments from rival Barack Obama during which the Illinois senator seemed to suggest he isn't exactly a details guy.

Another Obama manipulation..if he had been "PAYING ATTENTION TO DETAILS" he would have noticed that his own "staff" were fueling the race issue which he finally admitted to, after initially calling it ludicrous.All of you were trashing Hillary when she pointed it out, and she was absolutely right… All of you know exactly what Hilliary is talking about. She's not concerned about him losing paper work, but how we handle the small stuff, is a good demonstration of what it will be like when he gets into bigger issues with much bigger responsibility. pay attention to the details people and you'll see, that the media is purposely over-looking Edwards and Hillary because Obama is "their" man. Did you ever wonder why the media is shoving him in our faces..thiers only one thing that can get all major media to do that…it's money…one detail that no politician ever over-looks, including my choice, Hillary. I read Obama's website, as well as Edwards and Hillary's. She didn't get the honor or being one of the top 100 attorneys TWICE
because she's weak and unintelegent. Her list of accomplishments is huge. Atleast do your homework people…find out why the press are pushing for him. I did…and believe me you won't like what you find…

Robin   January 17th, 2008 7:04 am ET

To: TOM DAVIE

First I am 47 years old. Second, we do not know how she will run the White House, she has never been a President before. Believe it not. Third, we are not voting for Bill Clinton and his history on economics, Hillary is the one who is running and Bill Clinton is not the only one with the understanding and knowledge to deal with our economics. It's interesting if you listen she is claiming her time in the White House, what did she really do ?and if she is going to claim - in the general sense of all the years in the White House with Bill - she then needs to take the bad with the good….or pull her records and prove to us what she has done. Unfortunately Hillary has a problem with trust with the American people.

JA