January 18, 2008
Posted: 06:26 PM ET
 Bill Clinton and Magic Johnson have hit the campaign trail together.
Bill Clinton and Magic Johnson have hit the campaign trail together.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Basketball legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson suggests Barack Obama is a "rookie" in a new Hillary Clinton campaign ad launched in South Carolina Friday, one week before the southern state holds its Democratic primary.

"We won our first game on a last-second shot," the former Los Angeles Lakers point guard says in the ad. "I was so hyped. But the captain of my team said, 'Take it easy rookie, it's a long season, it's a long road to the championship.' He was right."

(According to NBA.com, that sage veteran mentioned in the ad who offers advice to a young Johnson is none other than Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who happens to be publicly supporting Obama.)

"Whether it's winning championships or a president who can lead us back to greatness, I'll always want the most prepared and experienced person leading my team," Johnson also says. "That's why I'm asking you to join me in voting for Hillary Clinton for President.

The basketball great fails to point out the Lakers won the NBA championship his rookie season and he was named Finals MVP.

Johnson endorsed Clinton earlier in the year and campaigned at her side in the days leading up to the Iowa caucuses. He has also been campaigning with Bill Clinton in Nevada this week, and taking subtle digs at the Illinois senator.

"We need somebody who's not preaching hope," he said at one stop on Thursday. "We need somebody who understands that there's a problem, and they're preaching solutions."

– CNN's Peter Hamby and Alex Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • South Carolina


Ben   January 18th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

It's funny how different things look when you only say half of the truth. I'd like to thank CNN for adding that stuff in.

Kiki   January 18th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

I just lost all respect for Magic Johnson.

Ca Native   January 18th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Magic Johnson was good at basketball. How exactly does this qualify him to be keynote speaker in the political arena? OH..that's right… most polls showing African Americans supporting Obama. Clinton's want to use Magic in hopes he'll convince other African Americans to vote for her.

Nice Hillary.

Janel, St. Paul, MN   January 18th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Um. . . .how exciting!!!

NLB   January 18th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Meet the new Bush family ——Hillary and Bill Clinton. Are you kidding me, Magic Johnson? You can have him along with Robert Johnson,Stephanie T. Jones too. Such shame to be blind to the game of politics.

Mary K. Clinton, Iowa   January 18th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Magic Johnson is soooo 90's.
Just like…the Clintons.
It's 2008 people.
Get with the program and leave the past as what it is.

Pat, Salem VA   January 18th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Has-been, just like the candidate he's supporting!!! (yawn) Move on!!!

Marko, Chicago IL   January 18th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Well now that Obama is getting the black vote the Clintons will try to pander.

jq   January 18th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

The basketball great fails to point out the Lakers won the NBA championship his rookie season and he was named MVP.

natouche   January 18th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

…..(According to NBA.com, that sage veteran mentioned in the ad who offers advice to a young Johnson is none other than Kareem Abdul-Jabar, who happens to be publicly supporting Obama.)

"Whether it's winning championships or a president who can lead us back to greatness, I'll always want the most prepared and experienced person leading my team," Johnson also says. "That's why I'm asking you to join me in voting for Obama for President.

The basketball great fails to point out the Lakers won the NBA championship his rookie season and he was named MVP…..

The report says it all.. Obama is prepared and experienced.
OBAMA 08!

Nate   January 18th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

First, Obama actually has a longer record in elected office than she does.

Secondly, Magic Johnson?

This is a joke right?

The Clintons need to put their black magic away and talk about real issues.

Be straight with the American people and stop trying to bring out black celebrities in order to solidify the black vote. It's embarrassing — especially when it's Magic Johnson.

Black people don't like Magic Johnson and they don't take him seriously. Nor do black people take Jesse Jackson seriously.

Just focus on the issues and stop trying this ludicrous attempt at pandering.

The AP just wrote a story about how Barack Obama has more experience than the Clintons are willing to give him credit for. 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.

Here's the link:

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5jfwiTMvbxKZec4z-ouww5y_5zfhgD8U753I80

Reinhold Penner   January 18th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Looks like these guys are handing Barack more puns for his speeches ;)

Aids Patient   January 18th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

It is so nice to see Magic out there who has done so much for AIDS awareness
and to see the clintons with so much support of Gays.

Gays have such a high turn out we may decide who wins the nomination and election.

Roy   January 18th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

The fat cats at wall street don"t get it. They allowed foreign investers to buy what
ever they wanted. So guess what half our money is in other countries. A a good
portion of it is in Mexico and South America held by drug dealers, that is after all]
the CEO'S took their share. All this mess started when Reagan fired the air
traffic comptrollers in 1984. He refused to pay them more salary and pension.
All this snowballed to other sectors who eliminated employees pensions and
jobs while linning their pockets. And Mr Bush encouraged them by saying he
did not see nothing wrong with a CEO making millions in salaries. Plus I
recall that in Febuary of 2004 he got on national tv and announced he was for
all illegal aliens in the US be granted a 3 year stay on their way to getting legal.
It was not for compassion but for cheap labor.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 18th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

I'm not impressed, Magic is misinformed. Bill is the most experienced and he's not running for president. Further, this ain't no basketball game. The only thing Magic could do with Obama is play basketball and I understand Obama was good at that. Obama is the role model for all young Americans.

Leah DiMarco, TX   January 18th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Senator Obama - 8 years elected office
Hillary - 4 years elected office
Senator Obama - Kareem Abdul-Jabar as a supporter
Hillary- Magic Johnson as a supporter
Senator Obama - spouse Michelle
Hillary - spouse Bill
Senator Obama - honesty, integrity, compassion, motivator
Hillary - enough said.

Vote for the winner - vote Obama '08

Murry   January 18th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

How sad for Billary. They have the support of yesterday's A-List. Barack Obama has the suport of today's A-List. (the supporters are listed in this CNN website BTW)
Barack Obama has been championing the people since his college days. He's worked and lived poor communities which Hillary would hesitate to set foot in without bodyguard.
Vote for Obama because his concern for poverty and racism is real, he's felt the pain personally.

ABC   January 18th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Magic Johnson was a great basketball player, but he should stick to basketball. Hopefully, the voters in their right minds will put on the full court press by putting the slam dunk on the Clinton campaign. They can do this by VOTING FOR ANOTHER CONTENDER, thus making sure that Hillary fouls out of the Presidential race.

stan pitts pa   January 18th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

magic is yesterdays news, he made a lot of bad judgements, just like bill, birds of a feather folks, flock togerther, i dont want the bush-clinton-bush, dynasty to continue, we need yes a fresh face, approach to foreign affairs , ending dependence on foreign oil and terrorism! we nned a fresh start, we need obama!

ABC   January 18th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Magic may be supporting Madame Hillary, but another former NBA player — BILL BRADLEY — is supporting Obama. Since Bradley has served in elected office, and Magic is strictly celebrity, clearly Bradley's endorsement is more convincing.

Jeffim, Miami, Fl   January 18th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Ha-ha,
LOVE IT!
Stick it up, Magic Johnson!
At least he does not feel pressured to vote for Obama because he's black. Magic Johnson goes for real substance.
Stick it up to the haters cult, that is Obama's campaign.

Jenny, Paxton, MA   January 18th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

magic is a baseball player, and what are you? you better be a career politician successful in washington, since you dismissed magic's opinion for coming from a ball player (though much more than that in reality)? or, you're also a non-politician citizen with a real day job? so the voters are supposed to trust YOUR opinion over another citizen who has nothing to gain by expressing his opinion because……? i know, stupidity is not a curable disease but a life-time condition.

i'm praying as hard as i can that you and your offsprings won't vote…. ever….

John   January 18th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

It's sad that we have voters like you in America - stupid, shallow, uninformed. You're probably those who voted for George Bush in 2004, because he is better looking than John Kerry. Great! Now, Obama is more inspiring, more charming and nicer to look at! What is it that he's going to change that Hillary won't? Did he ever talk about how he's going to do it? What is his records in human rights or for the underprivileged in this country? Grow up, get wiser, read, do your own research and compare. Try not to fantasize about anything when you hear him on TV, try to see whether he addresses the problems that this country is facing - economy, relations with other countries, plans for health care and education. Change is a catchy word, isn't it? How is he going to do it? Did he say that or he is just going to inspire you to do what you think will work, and when you're not inspired, you're just going to mess yourself and others up and wait to be inspired again?

Bill Culver, Covington,LA   January 18th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

When she besomes president in what capacity will she use the majic Johnson, Secretary of state, defence, attny general, surgeon general,chief of staff? Consider the consequences of a hillary election. Where is Joe McCarthy when we need him nost?
VOTE: Fred Thompson / Duncan Hunter

Adam, Los Angeles   January 18th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

AIDS Patient - review the records. Obama is a very strong supporter of AIDS awareness/prevention and of Gay Rights - He was and is against "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" implemented under the Clinton Administration which by many scholars is considered worse than not allowing gays in the military at all.

Ashes   January 18th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Get your facts straight:

Clinton- 7+ years in elected office (NY Senate 2000-present)
1973-1992- Rose Law Firm, Little Rock, Arkansas
1975 faculty University of Arkansas Law School
1974 staff attorney, presidential impeachment inquiry, House
Judiciary Committee
1973 attorney for The Children's Defense Fund
She's been on a ton of coroporate boards and involved in
several organizations that deal with children's welfare though
the years.

So, yeah, she has a lot more work experience that Obama. Personally, I could careless what celebrity supporters either one of them has got.

ronnie - knoxville, tn.   January 18th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

Magic Johnson isn't even well-educated. He says "I was so hyped" - I think he means "I was so psyched".but thats what you get when you haven't been educated. Bill and Hillary must be proud. Someone who cheated on his wife, got AIDS now want s the government to do something about it. What a great endorsement.

Jay   January 18th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

As an African -American, I'm not interested in voting for Obama just because he's black. I would feel much more secure with Hillary Clinton as MY president . Sure, Obama's fresh, nice and all that jazz, but you have to remember, this isn't a personality contest. "Nice" isn't gonna cut it. If we want a Democratic Admin. back in the oval office, Hillary Clinton is our only hope. The Repubs. would chew up Obama and spit him out … they're scared to death Hillary will win the Dem. Nod., because they know they'll have a tough time beating her. They're hoping beyond hope that Obama gets the nod.

Awaiting Moderation, USA   January 18th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

Magic Johnson didn't help Hillary in Iowa. Just an observation…

relevance????   January 18th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

What does Magic Johnson have to do with anything?
It seems like the Clintons keep stretching to find black americans to billboard their campaign with…whose next Tiger Woods, T.O., Dion Sanders? Maybe we could put an allstar team together.

Robert Bell   January 18th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

Magic WHO?

Why is a retired professional basketball player with an apparent fondness for donuts relevant to the political process.

Oh, wait, Hillary isn't pandering to Blacks here, is she?

Naaaaaaw!

Mr. "Ashes" - As for Hillarys "employment record" consider this:

"Clinton- 7+ years in elected office (NY Senate 2000-present)"
=>Due entirely to the fact her husband was President

"1973-1992- Rose Law Firm, Little Rock, Arkansas"
=>Due entirely to the fact her Husband was Governor.

"1975 faculty University of Arkansas Law School"
=> Due entirely to the fact her Husband was Governor.

Hey, wait, your forgot some of her "executitve experiences!"

"Get Your Facts Straight" as you say.

Board of Directors of Wal Mart - 6 years
=> again due entirely to the fact he husband was governor.
(You didn't forget to mention that because Wal-Mart is anti-union, no? "get your facts straight"!)

Commodities Trader - 10 months, made $100,000 in backdated trades
=> again due to the fact her Husband was governor - a Tyson's chicken Attorney "helped" her with the trades. Tysons is one of the largest companies in Arkansas.

More of that 'zecutive experience for sure. Funny how you forgot to mention those.

Maris   January 18th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

Adam, take a look at the Chicago Sun-Times. Apparently, there was some questionable behavior on behalf Mr. Obama regarding gays. Not to change your mind, but just to correct the facts. Thanks.

John   January 18th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Magic. You have disappointed me.

H. Dannon, Lancaster, SC   January 18th, 2008 9:15 pm ET

As a White Attorney who supports Obama, I wonder how "successful blacks" such as Magic and Bob Johnson don't see that the better Barack Obama does the better the black race does. Whether I like it or not, race still matters in this country. I can take up this whole board with examples to prove it…from the defendants I represent who are aggressively prosecuted to the way predatory lending is used against minorities. Barack will not be a "Black President" but a President who happens to be black but the mere fact that the President is black will make everyone who has some authority in this country think twice about victimizing some young black defendant. So back to my original question. Why cant these so called leading blacks who support Clinton see that you really are voting for the status quo which is vehemently opposed to the betterment of YOUR people. If I offend anyone I apologize for speaking the truth. Hugh…

Poor   January 18th, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Johnson is forced to support Hillar because they a long time friends, not because he believes in her.

Sus   January 18th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

"Preaching solutions" . . . I love that! I'm hearing a lot of people say that this message is getting through to them. Talk is just talk. Go Clinton

James   January 18th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I wish everyone posting for Obama knew this "Johnny come lately."

Tim Calhoun '08, Moreno Valley, CA   January 18th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

And people complain about Oprah's endorsement of Obama?

Heck, at least Oprah is still relevant.

Maybe M.C. Hammer will endorse John Edwards.

Tereesa   January 18th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

What is wrong with the folks in this country, We are in one of the worst times in our histroy with the war that should never have been, with the ecom. as headed for receision, with drug dealing, the education and health care problem the people need so desprately. This is not a time to make a race, gender war.
We all know it is no secreat that this county has always thought that we could be better lead by a white man, So we should just be proud that we have come so far finialy that we have a very smart and good black man, and a very smart and good woman. Lets just look in our hearts and pick the one that is best quaified. They both want change, if you don't you would not be voteing at all. Go Obama, Go Hillary…..

aisha naeem   January 18th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

go hillary u will win

Seam, Philly, Pa   January 18th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Magic, I am really dissapointed in your judgement. You need to seek advice from Charles Barkley.

Obama 08.

Pablo Dancy   January 18th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

response to nate: You speak for black people nate? How dare you!
magic johnson is a pillar in the Black community ,espcially in Los Angeles where he has contributed to community redevelopment in our community and helped in ways you coudn't even imagine! I'm not happy about his endorsement of Hillary
but that's his choice.so nate, don't speak for me,speak for yourself dude!

A Black Man in America

P.S. we love and listen to Jesse Jackson too!

John   January 18th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Go back to your mom's basement and read more conspiracy stories Roy, we don't need any loonies representing our party.

Seam, Philly, Pa   January 18th, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Ashes January 18, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Get your facts straight:

Clinton- 7+ years in elected office (NY Senate 2000-present)
1973-1992- Rose Law Firm, Little Rock, Arkansas
1975 faculty University of Arkansas Law School
1974 staff attorney, presidential impeachment inquiry, House
Judiciary Committee
1973 attorney for The Children's Defense Fund
She's been on a ton of coroporate boards and involved in
several organizations that deal with children's welfare though
the years.
———————————————————————————————————–

And? Your point is? This is not the experience to bring about change as the next President.

Audrey in Alexandria, Virginia   January 18th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

What a mistake !!!!

Magic Johnson said "We need someone who is not preaching about hope".

Having hope and preaching about hope is very powerful.

It is ironic, that Magic Johnson having survived this long with AIDS could make such a statement. After all, he was publicly praised for keeping a positive attitude and for being a role model on how he handled illness, giving sick people hope.

We all know having hope and being positive has a direct effect on our health.
Magic Johnson should never underestimate that.

Joan   January 18th, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Former New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani said that Obama was not ready to be president due to a lack of executive experience. He has never run a city, he has never run a state, never run a business" said Giuliani. AMEN AMEN AMEN—HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT!!!!

AJ, IL   January 18th, 2008 9:40 pm ET

There is a reason Earvin "Magic" Johnson appears with Bill Clinton more so than Hillary Clinton. Bill and Magic are friends. Think about it? Chuck Norris appears with Huckabee to show his support of him. Oprah appears with Obama to show her support of him. Now, Magic Johnson appears with Bill Clinton to show his support of whom???? Bill Clinton, not Hillary Clinton! Cheaters stay together!

Thomas   January 18th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

The Clintons really are pandering, aren't they?

Why don't more Americans realize it?

Obama was trying to be a comedian but fell flat. He doesn't have it either.

Vote for Edwards.

Cheryl Coppe   January 18th, 2008 9:43 pm ET

The Clintons and their black billionaire and multi-millionaire supporters, along with the Civil Rights-era old-guard have Martin Luther King, Jr. SPINNING in his grave right now. The Clintons use black surrogates like Johnson (Robert and Magic) and white surrogates like Andrew Cuomo to attack Obama, thinking the American public is stupid enough to think these people speak independent of their campaign strategy. WE ARE NOT STUPID. And that such tactics are used proves that the Clinton "torch has passed" to a new generation that transcends race — that generation is personified by Barack Obama, whose story is very similar to that of my son and many other sons and daughters of 21st century America. If we are to move beyond this "old school" politicians' preoccupation with what was and look beyond the horizon to what wonders await us in this country, Barack Obama must become the President of the United States of America.

Joan   January 18th, 2008 9:45 pm ET

WAKE UP AMERICA!!! OBAMA TALKS A GOOD TALK BUT IT IS SHOWING ALL OVER , AROUND AND THRU HIM THAT HE IS NOT CONFIDENT ABOUT THIS PRESIDENCY ROLE. BELIEVE ME PPL—–OBAMA IS NOT THE ONE. HE DOES NOT HAVE THE CLOUT TO WIN OVER ALLIES OR THE INFLUENCE TO NEGOTIATE FOREIGN AFFAIRS —AMERICA THE REPUBS WANT OBAMA TO BE THE DEMOCRATIC PRESDENTIAL NOMINEE SO THE REPUBS CAN WIN THE ELECTION…..MAJORITY WHITE AMERICA WILL NOT VOTE FOR A BLACK PRESIDENT!!! VOTE HILLARY!!!!

Don   January 18th, 2008 9:47 pm ET

You people have nothing better to do with your time I see. Was it not both Hillary and Obama who asked their true supporters to not play these games. I don't understand how this " change" is going to take place if the supporters of the campaign that is talking hope does nothing but bash the experianced canidate. If this is the change and hope you have for our country, we are in for more trouble than Bush ever created. How about some hopeful blogs and change your attacks on Clinton to support for your canidate. Clinton supporters atleast talk about issues and experiance. If Obama has a great record.Lets talk about it. However, calling a women a name and distorting her service to our country is not change. Obama and Hillary are not enemies, so why the hatred. Once again, to Obama supporters, is this the hope and change you want? If you want change, is being hateful the best way to achieve that goal. I think not. Talk about your canidate, don't spread lies about the other. That same thought goes to real Hillary supporters.

NextPresident   January 18th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

What is so "Magic" about Irvin Johnson who was a womanizer and was not faithful to his wife. So I see why Johnson is supporting Hillary he can identify with being unfaithful. There is nothing "Magic" about Irvin Johnson for he is one of those Clinton's IOU friends. Enough said.

Tom Davie   January 18th, 2008 9:53 pm ET

SPIN SPIN SPIN

Golden rule:

When some old FART Like John Kerry endorses Obama (remember 'stay the course in Iraq' Kerry campaign ?) then GOOD FOR KERRY .

When someone, ANYONE , supports Clinton then they SUCK. LOSERS, IDIOTS

Doesnt matter if GOD himself endorsed Clinton, the bias on CNN would twist it into God being a clown.

Phil   January 18th, 2008 9:58 pm ET

Hillary tried, but unfortunately OJ was booked.

Teacher   January 18th, 2008 10:04 pm ET

He should bring out his real heavy hitter,the CEO of Walmart.

James Brown ( Independent )   January 18th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Lets keepit simple.

Clinton divides the country before she even has the job.

Obama has a track record of bring people together , and understand real change comes from the bottom up , with the will of the American people behind you.

Clinton is bad news for this country !

OBAMA 08

Rick   January 18th, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Bill and Hillary need to get a real job, you are the STATUS QUO and WE THE PEOPLE are tired of you and your fake ideas……….

Ginny Ca   January 18th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Go Hillary!! Stay steady and strong. My family and friends in California are behind you 100%!

joe   January 18th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

once again i look for a reason to stay with my choice to support obama — and once again all i find is hatred and vicious divisiveness coming from the people who support him. somehow i can't imagine that a true "uniter" would have the most horrific following of supporters. i am going to go with edwards and if he drops out — clinton. both of their plans are similar and their health care is stronger than obama's. obama wasn't even able to vote when the iraq war came up — not there yet…and every vote since then, when he was there, he supported it.

misogyny is not a part of either edward's or clinton's agendas — and with all the hillary and bill bashing — there is not nearly as much media empathizing with sexism as with racism. it is really getting sick and it will only bring obama down in the end. the more hatred you people spew — the more that affects your candidate.

i would like to know why this is though. why are obama's supporters such hateful people? what is it? fear? ignorance? anger? bad upbringing? too much money?

California Lady   January 18th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

To H. Dannon, Lancaster SC
As a white female (58 years young). I couldn't agree with you more. Well said.
We need someone like Obama. I really believe he will not only run this country better than anyone ever has but he will inspire the young African Americans and show them that "they can". They need to stop falling into exactly what the white establishment wants them to do because it is getting them no where.

Nando   January 18th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Wow Hillary and Bill are bringing out the big guns!!!!!!!!! Its a sad day for the Clintons when you frontliner is a ex-b ball player with HIV?

Cory, Pennsylvania   January 18th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

Magic Johnson? Magic Johnson? Who is he? I want Oprah….

OBAMA '08!

Manuel, Pearland, TX   January 18th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

I think that a more accurate description of Obama is mixed-race…not black.

pam Eugene OR   January 18th, 2008 10:33 pm ET

Barack Obama is the President this country needs. Hillary is running on the coat tails of Bill and they are not that strong. Please , we they people , wake up and see the future. It can be a miracle come true with Barack as our leader. He is a democrat who can unite us as a country and that would be for the betterment for ALL. Hillary is the past; she and Bill need to retire and let the US of A go forward. Thank you for your service Bill.
What has she done for Magic or the black community? Where are the new programs to combat AIDS or the black community at large? Where are the new programs to help under educated blacks that can give them a hand up that is so badly needed. Once every 4 years She and Bill are the "Black" president then they just walk away and support the big money PACS and China.
Please people vote for a true uniter and not a candidate 50% of the population can not endorse or even tolerate.
Obama 08

Tom, Boston MA   January 18th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

H Dannon of Lancaster, SC, writes:

"how "successful blacks" such as Magic and Bob Johnson don't see that the better Barack Obama does the better the black race does."

simplistic statements like yours are only detrimental to the cause you think you work for. you don't see how "the better Colin Powell, Cearance Thomas, and Condi Rice do the worse the black race does"???????

sincere progressives are holding back their support for Obama, and for good reasons. he's an agent of the mainstream America that voted for Reagan, Bushes, and Cheney oger and over and over again. United, i'm sure, but change? i doubt.

stop being blind   January 18th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

masses can be blind, they hear, see what is not there. If they would open eyes, they would see Hillary as great leader. Not the one who cannot express himself clearly so everyone understands his words. When Hillary speaks - I know what she is talking about, when O. has constantly says" oh, I did not mean that" and " I did not understand the question" - well, if someone does not understand question, good thing is to ask: " what was the question? What did you mean exactly?" But this does not appeal to Mr. O. It can cause major disaster if this would happen by dealing internationally. Do you think that other countries/leaders would wait for "oops, I did not mean that…but…."? Kind of scarry.
I keep repeating: good leader has to have experience, diplomacy. These I did not see with Obama.
for Hillary

Alice in Florida   January 18th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

The saddest thing is -

I actually took the time to wonder how long it would take for Obama to pull out the race card

….Didn't take that long at all….first, he was the hero of African-Americans

Now, he's the hero of illegal immigrant Hispanic dishwashers and maids who only have to prove that they work at a casino in order to vote

Illegal dishwashers and maids who are so scared of Immigration that they will vote however their bosses tell them they must

LOL -

Isn't America wonderful??????

Sean, Santa Barbara, CA   January 18th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

The clintons need to realize that Magic does not matter, he might matter a bit for the older black voters, but he is no one for the young black voters that the Clintons are so desperately trying to attract, or that Obama has gained and is gaining.

Adding Magic definately shows how out of touch the Clintons are with the voters.

Really Magic is a symbol of a failed medical system, he is someone who is rich and has had the money to buy meds that a typical voter / person cannot afford to stop HIV from becoming AIDS if they are infected. If your rich you can afford to live if not then to bad. It kind of goes to the big money , special interest politics that the Clintons are now known for.

Kris   January 18th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Yes, please never mind all that stuff my husband and I said that offended you black voters. He didn't really mean it. Now, please watch this lovely parade of all of the token black people who love us and think we're just swell. See, we have loads of famous black people whom we paid hansomely to tell you that I'm the best candidate. Surely you trust at least one of them to make your decision for you? No? Perhaps I shouldn't have said that we paid them. Forget that. Don't take it out of context now. What I really MEANT to say is that these people are supporting me because of all of the clearly wonderful things that my husband did — oops — I mean all of the wonderful things that I did in previous years to make sure that the negroes — oops again! — I mean African Americans would love the idea of me being their president.
Yes, that's right. Just tell me what I'm supposed to say, whatever it is, to get your vote and you've got it. I'll do whatever it takes.

Jose Card - Independent   January 18th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

The future four years of our country is not a game.
It's about real people and their lives.

James Brown ( Independent )   January 18th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

Clinton is in panic mode , she thought this election was going to be a cake walk. I really think the American people are starting to see just how bad the Clinton's would be for this country because , she divides America even more then Bush has , and she doesn't even have the job yet.

Obama has won my vote.

Nevada voter...   January 18th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

Well I gotta tell ya…..everyone I have talked to in the last week are all voting for Hillary…..they started out for Obama but have been listening to his commercials and the local news and are now Clinton supporters….the Reagan comments are really turning them against Obama…..just an observation…..also the unfairness of the Culinary union bosses being so demanding on the members and they are talking to the press here in Vegas…..they say they won't vote for Obama in front of any union bosses……

Andrew, NY, NY   January 18th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Big deal. Does Bubba remember that he too was a rookie. By blasting Obama is Bubba suggesting we made a mistake electing him? Hmmm…perhaps he has a point.

Dido   January 18th, 2008 10:50 pm ET

The Clintons are playing on the intelligence of the American people. I'm very sure the American people are smatter than the Clintons give them credit for. When it's all said and done, the truth will prevail.

Vote for the truth America! Vote Barack Obama for president!

Todd   January 18th, 2008 10:50 pm ET

Of all people, I would have never,ever guessed Magic would talk negative about Obama. I say support who you wish but don't down talk the guy because you can't think of anything good to say about Clinton. Most of his public statements are negative/criticism about Obama not positive things about Clinton.

To: H. Dannon, Lancaster, SC

It's that "crab in a bucket" mentality. When one crab is just about to climb out of the rim of the bucket, a crab on the bottom pulls him back down. I did say "bottom". Neither Johnson is respected in the Black community. Magic for his fleecing of the black community and that BET clown for making Billions degrading black women via RAP because as he once said "it sells records". They're both bottom feeders of the black community and if not for white america supporting them, they would fade away into nonexistance.

Emily, Atlanta, GA   January 18th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

Robert Bell,
Where did you get "entirely" from? Apparently you can read voters' minds? Please do not use baseless assumptions and bias to judge someone's work and character. If you read up on Hillary's history you will see that she was considered one of the most influential lawyers of the time.
Attitude like yours are precisely why Obama's supporters are called a "haters' cult."

Ruth Mctizic   January 18th, 2008 10:55 pm ET

Magic…You are a sensitive, caring man who have shared your misfortune with the world…and for this I thank you. I also appreciate Mr.Clinton's focus on Africa
and his work on HIV/AIDs and other diseases that devastate the African countries.
I recognize this as the link that binds you, but Hillary is not Bill…Don't get it twisted.
You can recognize devine intervention can't you……. your own life is evident of that fact, and so is this time in history for Barack Obama. It's time for the Rookie to lead the free world. If you can't help…Don't hinder
Ruth

Bruce Taylor,Berkeley/Sacramento   January 18th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

New poll today by CNN:
Clinton has fallen 26% in the African-American vote…so this type of zirconium endorsement is losing its lustre.
Obama 59%
Clinton 31%

Cat   January 18th, 2008 10:57 pm ET

Magic has a right to support whom ever he pleases. All of us do. So why tear him down for stating who he prefers. This is America and everyone has a right to vote for whom ever they please.

I am ashamed for my children to see how adults act and talk about each other.

We should be role models for them and maybe the world would be a little more friendly to every human being, regardless of class, gender, race or religion.

As I have stated in previous emails, the people who vote will determine who the next president will be.

I believe in one man, one vote. I hope Nevada will not be having some of their citizens vote as many as 5 times.

From an American and right now not so proud of it.

Geri Sacramento   January 18th, 2008 10:58 pm ET

To Poor: Did Magic Johnson tell you that or are you a mind reader?

sam madino   January 18th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

Clinton News Network or what was once CNN is at it again. Supporting Clintons, having her biographer there in the political room. How about talking about the fund raising fraud case that is on the table at CA courts against Hillary.
Do you hear CNN bring this up. Of course not. It's Clintons News Network. I bet they wont even show this comment.

Marie in Arlington Tx   January 18th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

I am a white Republican who is 99.9% sure Obama will have my vote in 08. There hasn't been so much excitement about an election since another talented young orator captured the American spirit.

As I listened to Obama this evening I wondered why in the world would anyone want to go up against the Clintons? Why would anyone put themselves in front of that freight train? It really is such an ugly position to be in….maybe because it is the right thing to do. And maybe we as voters need to recognize it is the right thing for our country.

America we have a chance to have a president who will unite us and listen to us. Oh by the way, did I mention he just happens to be black. I hope the black voters won't just go along with what Bill and Hillary Clinton think they should do. This race thing just won't die and here they go again. That's nice that Magic Johnson supports a candidate and speaks out for one. It strikes me as strange that his endorsement makes such headlines.

Obama in '08!!!!!!!!!!

A new world is waiting for us   January 18th, 2008 11:12 pm ET

Despite some of the comments here, I think this election cycle is really great. I think our country is really evolving for the better; and looked at from a distance, I like what I see.

Gen   January 18th, 2008 11:26 pm ET

Obama was a member of the Illinois State Senate since 1997!! He's been around for a while but you don't see him bragging about his experience. I want people to tell me what has HIllary done that has made a difference in your life?
Has she ever REALLY done anything for you? Because I know she hasn't done anything to make my life easier. People don't understand that ALL she cares about is POWER not the PEOPLE!!

When she talks all I see in her eyes is a thirst for power and the desire to be in control. She's completely fake. That was the only reason she forgave Bill for cheating on her, because she knew he was the key to her power. Do your research and realize that when Bill had to make any IMPORTANT decisions HIllary wasn't speaking to him because she was upset at him for some scandal.
Realize that this is all about her, not about the American people! Wake up people! I used to support her, but then I realized what she really was! Corrupt!

Obama for a better tomorow!! OBAMA 2008!!

Leilani, Seattle,WA   January 18th, 2008 11:26 pm ET

I totally agree with H.Dannon of Lancaster, SC. As a new immigrant of Polynesian ancestry, electing Obama would not only change the statusquo for African Americans but for other minorities as well.

You go Obama….Mahalo, Kia Ora

Rachel   January 18th, 2008 11:27 pm ET

H. Dannon:

I am a white attorney with a civil rights background, having worked in northern Florida for many years representing black defendants who have suffered discrimination in the criminal justice system.

I support Hillary because I think she will make the best president. My decision has nothing to do with race or gender. I just think she's better qualified.

It's everyone's responsibility to reject the race card and refuse to play it. And that includes well-intentioned white attorneys.

Mark, Seattle   January 18th, 2008 11:28 pm ET

To relevance:What does Oprah have to do with anything?

PETER ORIAVWOTE   January 18th, 2008 11:31 pm ET

I HOPE THIS BLACK RACE THING STOPS NOW. OBAMA WILL QUICKLY HAVE SEEN HIS DEMISE SHOULD THE CLINTONS PLAY THE WHITE CARD IN RETURN, BECAUSE POLITICS IS A GAME OF NUMBERS. THE CLINTONS ARE NICE PEOPLE. HILLARY IS WINNING THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY NOMINATION WITHOUT PLAYING ON RACE.

Gaining Hope, Newport News, Va.   January 18th, 2008 11:36 pm ET

Great! Two men who know what it's all about? Please… Can we get serious now?

melissa   January 18th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

so because magic is a former basketball player he's not allowed to know politics.. right?

half of these comments only criticize magic for taking a political stance alongside hillary because apparently he'll never know what he's talking about because he's a former basketball great.. get over it.. if any of you knew anything about magic he's always been a good friend of both clintons and has supported them 100% throughout their careers as they have always supported him in his fight to bring awareness to AIDS.. yes it happens to be true. some basketball players do have brains and do have opinions.

"Why is a retired professional basketball player with an apparent fondness for donuts relevant to the political process."

what does that have anything to do with anything?

if that's the question you want to ask then you should be asking it about every celebrity who endorses any of the candidates..

Barry   January 18th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

Wake up America, Bush, Bush. Clinton, Clinton. We deserve much more than that. Vote for the kid; he is smart and has no baggage yet. Catch him while he is clean.

Don   January 18th, 2008 11:42 pm ET

I fail to see the reasoning behind the criticism of Anyone's vote for the war. Remember back. The vast majority of the World was on our side. The great majority of Americans were for the war, we were displaying a paper flag in our car window. I fell for it. Didn't you? What part of the facts are unclear? I think the majority of voters have fallen for the "You repeat a lie loud enough and often enough, many people will believe and repeat it willingly." Not sure on the quote. It fits their personal agenda. Just one American's opinion. I sure hope we are ALL informed this time.
Thanks, Don

Venus   January 18th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

The Clintons' continue to amaze me at the level of disregard they show in pandering to Blacks in such an obvious manner. As each day passes I lose more respect for them. They'll destroy the base of the party just to be back in power. BET founder, home of gangsters and sexism (they are just "keepin' it real") and now Magic. Magic whose opinion on how to run the country has always been…. wait didn't he play some game with a ball?

Pathetic Billary. Just pathetic. Although it's nice to finally see your true colors.

Ron   January 18th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

Oprah vs. Magic

hmmm

hm

Oprah

Watching Bill and Hillary is kind of like watching Britney Spears…I think they may need some serious help…

MAGIC JOHNSON!!!! He is like the most illiterate person in the world!!!!!!

It's like they're trying to give the race to Obama…fine with me ;)

(I'm African-American by the way)

John H.   January 18th, 2008 11:49 pm ET

The Clintons are phonies. Untrustworthy, liars, and two-faced.

ROGER MOORE   January 18th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

SORRY HILLARY BLACK MAGIC DON`T WORK!!!

defotso   January 19th, 2008 12:00 am ET

Barack is the only alternative.you have our support all over the world.

Ann   January 19th, 2008 12:01 am ET

Clinton needs some magic himself to clean up his act. Is he senile, he's been exhibiting some off the wall behavior and he looks bad.

Mati   January 19th, 2008 12:02 am ET

I cannot understand how stupid can some be to fall for that Obama guy. I found disgusting his act mocking Hillary and Edwards. Like a coward, he wasn't able to reply in the debate.. He cannot use his mind! he needed a script to start the barking.

I admire the Clintons. I like how they fight again the stupidity of people, the bias of media and the political adversity. I strongly believe Hillary should be the President.

Rich In Seattle   January 19th, 2008 12:07 am ET

This is great 'cause I only care about who ex-basketball players pick to lead this country. I really can't wait to hear who Dennis Rodman picks. I make all my decisions based on unqualified sports figures recomendations. I wonder what Mike Tyson thinks we should do about the growing threat of Russia and how they are moving away from a Democratic system.

I care as much as Magic Johnson as I do about George Clooney and Angelina Jolie, which is nothing!

sluggo   January 19th, 2008 12:19 am ET

moderators are censoring comments

zack   January 19th, 2008 12:39 am ET

Funny how polls start to show a shift of blks to Obama and Clinton whips out… an old, somewhat forgotten basketball player?

I wonder who Michael Jordan prefers?

STAN   January 19th, 2008 12:48 am ET

Jenny, Paxton, MA

Magic Johnson was a basketball player not baseball. I guest you are supporting Hillary because she is a woman, please do some research before you support anyone.

sein   January 19th, 2008 12:55 am ET

GO OBAMA…canada supports you

Leroy, Head   January 19th, 2008 1:03 am ET

Politics and basketball aint the same game man. Hillary has the experience, as the wife of the president. Not the president, unless she has been doing Bill's job. Obviously her experience is from Bill, but aint that the whole problem man, she's got the wrong experience, wrong set of keys to the door man.

Glen, Boston, MA   January 19th, 2008 1:17 am ET

So, what Magic is saying is that Obama is that excited rookie Magic once was, winning that first game and going on to lead an incredible dynasty?

You're right, Magic - I should vote for Obama.

Ya know - Reagan swept in on the message of hope at a time when Americans were feeling pretty ashamed of themselves from an unnecessary war and endless corruption. Why is hope such a terrible thing?

Moe, NY   January 19th, 2008 1:33 am ET

Black vote, White vote….get over that crap….vote for a person who will lead this country back…and, maybe even do good for the people in this country who are hurting….yep…true story…people in this country are hurting….can you say health insurance?…Obama proved himself a clown in Navada… (and his wife could not even pronounce the name…dah) wasn't even funny. While I am talking about Navada….why should any special group…casino workers, Burger King workers, etc… and on and on…have a special time to vote?….I don't…do any of you???? I work all day long…I am not catered to……I agree with the law suit…not fair….does not apply to all people…just a chosen few…can you say rigged election? Don't care what you think about Bill Clinton, he is dead on with his protest on this one….and before you all get anti Democrat….Bill Clinton, Hillary, etc. had nothing to do with this farce. The two people who scare me the most are Obama with his total lack of experience, and Huckabee…total fool. As far as Magic Johnson goes, as with other celebs jumping on the band wagon,..who cares?…certainly does not change my mind as to who I will vote for in this coming election. Ok, have to say it, I guess, I am for Hillary….she is one strong lady who has her stuff together….not flying on hope, but facts! Please people, vote how you feel….not what the media, endorsement from Hollywood flunkies, etc. are telling you how to vote. How anyone in this day and age could actually go that route is beyond me, but guess it happends. Good luck AMERICA!

Tee   January 19th, 2008 1:49 am ET

It is so interesting and rather disappointing that the Clintons (…I like that Billary tag) and their supporters have to continually and constantly stoop to denigrating and berating Senator Obama. I guess hatred, lying, lack of ethics and integrity, backstabbing, negativity, divisiveness, separatism is alive and well in America and permeates the Clinton camp…and this is the person/family people are choosing as our President. For someone with 35 years of experience, it would be so nice if she and her supporters would emphasis her accomplishments, her successes, her leadership, her qualifications for being President…oops my bad I mean twist Bill's accomplishments, successes, leadership into her own. Just note how her "celebrity" campaign supporters attack Senator Obama and espouse the same lies about his background and experience she constantly repeated on Meet the Press. But Senator Obama's major "celebrity" supporter, Oprah Winfrey, highlighted her beliefs and reasons for supporting Obama and what makes him the Right President for such a time as this. Although I will probably not vote for a Democrat in the Presidential election, Senator Obama, I salute you and thank you for being a man of class, quality, character and integrity. I know it is challenging but for the most part, more so than others, you have stayed above the fray and lies.

Please continue to be a good example for all–young, old, black, white, hispanic, asian, liberal, conservative, democrat, and republican

Washington State Voter   January 19th, 2008 1:50 am ET

Clinton can't beat McCain, she's just too polarized.

The Clintons are such phoneys… They're so desperate… The difference here is that the people coming out in mass to support Obama really believe in him, that's why they support him… The Clintons are just reaching…

Salida   January 19th, 2008 2:08 am ET

I know this will also not get posted. Most of my comments that are not in support of Obama aren't. I think that is really unfair as these forums should be used by stakeholders to express their opinions on the very important time in our lives and the history of this nation.

Now to address this: So now Magic Johnson is not qualified to support a candidate based on the comments here. But Oprah can endorse a candidate and tell you all to vote and you all seem to just jump on the band wagon without asking which direction it is going. I saw the path the country would take when they voted for Bush and this was twice. I still say to people I told you so.

I see you all now going down the same path except using a different method. With the state of the nation, do you want to elect someone who did not stay anytime on his current job, manages to escape relevant voting or votes present? It seems to me his intent when he ran for the IL. Senate was a bridge to get him to run for the Presidency right away. that is why he has not stayed any time there for fear of having to deal with records on his votes that could be used to question his ability, intelligence, integrity and stance on issues. We need a decisive leader.

Wake up people,
Obama - Not yet tested for job of President of the United States.
Obama - Not yet tested for job as leader of the free world.

The world is watching, make them know we are responsible enough to make a difference and change the course of this nation and preserve it for generations to come.

cope   January 19th, 2008 2:08 am ET

Magic can't save Hillary he has just threw her campaign a serious no look pass
for the black vote. The Clintons need to stick to the issues they might of had a
better chance of getting James Worthy.

Mike   January 19th, 2008 2:13 am ET

Mark, exactly. To people who argue how pathetic and pandering this is, then I guess you feel the same way about Oprah. At least you should. Because she has nothing to do with politics. So either people with fame, money and influence should be politically relevant or they shouldn't. People should be consistent, not love when Oprah campaigns and then derides when Magic Johnson does it.

Jake, California   January 19th, 2008 2:14 am ET

Poor Magic Johnson…he needs his pills I believe, what is he doing hanging out with Bill?

c martin   January 19th, 2008 2:21 am ET

Oprah is a supporter who brought drew fans( specifically women voters and african american voters) to come see her and hear Barack Obama. I guess Magic is bring out Laker fans who used to like him in the 80's and Laker fans who happen to live in the east coast.

Go Magic, Bob Johnson and Rengal. If not for you…where would the Black vote be for Hilary?

c martin   January 19th, 2008 2:22 am ET

I was waiting for Bill Clinton to start make him tap dance and shuffle across the stage saying " them Clintons shall love us….we's should luv dem back"

"Hellory Clinton" 2008

Me   January 19th, 2008 2:28 am ET

Barack Obama, that deceiver is of his father, the great deceiver.
You have been hood-winked, bamboozled, or, whatever you want to call it. A duck is a duck no mater how pretty you make it. His slogan should be "By any means necessary."

All of you who support him are hood-winked. The media is on his side. What a bunch of hypocrites. Bill Clinton is portrayed almost daily by negative stories, yet, Obama's wife is never mentioned. She stays in her world. The media will take care of the Obama's.

Now, we all realize how many people in this country hate to see Hillary become our first woman president.

Read and weep. It doesn't matter what the polls say. Hillary will be president. All the delegates will go to her.

Shame on the media for thinking you have the power to sway voters. You have misjudged the American People. We are smarter than you think. God has blessed us with a stable mind so we can discern between what is true and what is not.

You can battle against Hillary 24 hours a day, if God wants her to be president, then she will be president.

Make sure all of you Clinton haters watch her inaugural ceremony. How great it will be when "W" passes the torch to Hillary.

We love you Hillary. No matter how tough it gets, be encouraged and never give up. For the prize is just beyond the horizon.

Ito, Yokosuka Japan   January 19th, 2008 2:35 am ET

Well…it's apparent that Magic, while he was a great basketball player, is not very smart. As the article points out the Lakers won the championship his rookie year. What the article doesn't say is that the Lakers would not likely have one the champion if it were not for Magic Johnson. Hence, the reason Magic won the MVP award.

To here Magic Johnson moch his own success seems to actually make an even stronger case for Obama for the simple fact that Magic's own experience on the world stage (and there are many who followed his carreer) speaks louder than a scripted message that goes everything he experienced. So Magic's words mean nothing.

Though I do find it humorous, as the article also mentions, that the person with Experience during Magic's first year, is an Obama Supporters.

I think the Clinton's need to be a little smarter about who they pick for contrasting experience and being a rookie.

JohnS   January 19th, 2008 2:39 am ET

Unfortunalety, some "idiots" who write that all that Obama says is "change" and "hope" are completely out of touch with the positions of the different candidates.

Take as an example, Obama called for immediate "rebate" in his "ECONOMIC policy, not yet read by such idiots. Well, what did Hillary and President Bush say recently, both said EXACTLY what Obama had articulated in his response to the current economic crises. Go, read the facts!!!

Of course, we continue to "day dream" that Hillary is Bill Clinton and that she, and only she can bring back the economic successes of the past.

Well, what about this logic: Bill Clinton is Bill; he will certainly engage more Interns in the White House as a "stay home" husband. Why should we expect Bill to change? Why should we hope that Hillary will no longer anger Republicans and Independents? "Hope" and "change" are the keys to what we would like to be; not the same old dynasty roles while expecting "different results."

Jay   January 19th, 2008 2:41 am ET

Who cares who Magic endorses anyway? Besides she is only using him to get elected. She has no scruples the biggest evidence of this was back in '04 when we had the chance to boot Bush out but the Clinton's refused to endorse John Kerry.

They wouldn't endorse him because they knew it would mean Hillary could not run for president in '08. We had a chance to put this country on a better path and try to heal the wounds that Bush created, but she put her own selfish desires before that of the party and more importantly the country.

We don't need a president that puts their own wants and desires before the greater good of our nation. We already had one like that… his name is Bush…. I've seen that movie and I know how it ends…. didn't care for it much.

When Barack Obama speaks I believe he will do what is best for us; as a nation. He will unite us. He will heal the divide.

Stand Up, and don't be afraid to be counted.
Respect, Empower, Include.
Omaba '08

Chidi   January 19th, 2008 2:46 am ET

I could care less of what Magic Johnson or any other celebrity has to say regarding the candidates. But I am an Obama supporter based on what he represents. We definitely need a change from the old corporate politics that has been in existence for a long time. Also, we simply can't go from Bush to Clinton, and back to Bush- Clinton all over again. This is not an aristocracy. It is, if my memory hasn't failed yet, a democracy.

Another Steve   January 19th, 2008 3:15 am ET

Geez, I give this one a big "Oh Brother" . What a celebrity to pick. I guess he can draw the aids votes and the black vote. I only wish there wasn't a writers strike, I'd love to see what they'd come up with on this one.

Something that is important,.. regardless of Hillary's claimed 35 years experience. She is gonna bring a whopping lot of baggage back to the White House if she would ever get in, which in reality I don't see this happening. What for? There are plenty of politicians that have an axe to grind with the Clintons. Not to mention us voters whom the Clinton years weren't all that great. The biggest single positive was the economic growth that Bill takes credit for, even when it was the internet burst that Gore was actually responsible for.

The memories of the Clinton years I have besides Bills cheating and lying were his signing Nafta which has been devastating to anyone in manufacturing in this country. Hillary I recall only for her failure in her managing to bring about health care reform. Many believe much of the problem was her hands on approach she is so proud of. Why are we even thinking of return to this era? Obama and Hillaries platforms aren't that different. Their skills in getting this done are. I'd give that one hands down to Obama. He is an intellect and will bring in good people that will help him get things done in a bipartisan way that needs to be done. Please no more Cliton theatrics. We really need to get our act together and I really don't see that there is a chance in hell of Hillary, one of the most polarizing persons in Washington getting this accomplished.

Susie   January 19th, 2008 3:20 am ET

If Obama is making sharp barbs about Clinton and Edwards, how is he going to get along with world leaders and even our own Congress if he becomes president?

This troubles me.

Tim   January 19th, 2008 3:45 am ET

Obama supporter keep saying that Clinton is so 90's. Well, hate to break the new Obama is 46 years old and he is a baby boomer. He 's not a Gen x or Gen y. He is old school, try again.

Magic is right, Obama is a rookie. These last few days of bad choices and slips of the tongue he has made is showing his inexperience.

Bruce, San Francisco,CA   January 19th, 2008 3:53 am ET

Why are the Clintons so keen to spread this notion that somehow it is Hillary's turn to govern. USA is not their private property by the way, suggesting Obama is rookie who should step aside to let Hillary go it alone and come back when their chance is over is ridiculous idea. From the onset they thought Hillary was not going to get any contest in this run, i remember a debate where Hillary suggested that other candidates be dropped, i sure guess she even tried to use her husband's powers to influence the DNC to sanction that motion. These two are becoming a danger to America.

Steve, Cheyenne WY   January 19th, 2008 4:51 am ET

Nice headline… "Clinton puts Magic Johnson front and center"
Didn't we get enough of Bill doing that in the 90's?

Brandy   January 19th, 2008 5:05 am ET

Some of you are saying Hillary Clinton is "USING" black people such as Magic in this champaign, if thats the case, then i guess Barack Hussein Obama is "USING" the white people he has with his champaign!! Dont throw stones at Hillary for something when Obama is doing the same. Far too many are putting RACE and GENDER into this, when its the ones who are making such post who really have the Race and Gender problem, Some people have no idea who they even like one over the other, most are going along with the Media which has been unfair during the whole champaign. Most of your alls thinking is WHY America is in the shape its in.

John-SC   January 19th, 2008 5:09 am ET

*~*~*~*~HILLARY 2008~*~*~*~*

_____We Need Change and someone who CAN get it done____

~*~*~*~*~Hillary is the one~*~*~*~*~*~

M. Lopez   January 19th, 2008 5:13 am ET

MAGIC JOHNSON AND BILL CLINTON; SOMEHOW I FEEL THOSE TWO BELONG TOGETHER.

THE ONLY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN JOHNSON AND CLINTON IS THAT CLINTON DID NOT GET AIDS FROM HIS SEXUAL ADVENTURES AND JOHNSON DID GET AIDS.

BIRDS OF A FEATHER FLOCK TOGETHER AND ALL THAT GOOD STUFF.
CLINTON AND JOHNSON BELONG TOGETHER.

Janice   January 19th, 2008 5:13 am ET

Actually Jay, if you want a Dem. Admin. back you will go with someone other than Hillary. You don't think the Repubs. will come out in MASSIVE numbers to defeat Hillary? And you don't think they will have plenty of support from Indeps. that don't want to see her in office? Please. No, the only hope of returning to a Dem. Admin. is by having someone other than Hillary. Let us not forget the number of people in the Dem. party that will ALSO vote against her……

Bob   January 19th, 2008 5:31 am ET

Several things bother me about Obama. First, a President is only human. He can and will make mistakes. What will he do if he makes a mistake
while President. He said he would not make any. Two, I consider myself well read but I still know, despite thousands of words written and spoken, very little about Obama. I read his book but there was a lot left out. Third, he started out as unifier. By his actions, he has pissed off many Democrats. Fourth, it is very extremely difficult to pin him down to a specific answer. Ask him how specially, he would fix Social Security, and you will never get a straight specific answer. Does he even have a clue on this subject?

pete   January 19th, 2008 5:38 am ET

the DIFFERENCE between the black famous people support for obama is that THOSE SUPPORTING OBAMA DO SO OF THEIR OWN FREE WILL WITHOUT OBAMAS ACTIVILY SEEKING THEM OUT LIKE A PACK OF HOUNDS THE CLINTONS ARE!!!

the clintons are hunting for black famous people support and desperately wanting african americans to think they are aligned with the black people. The clintons will seek out ANY FAMOUS BLACK PERSON THEY CAN GET THEIR HANDS ON!!!

whether its a black billionaire who had nothing to do with average black people hardships, or a famous basketball player who has nothing to do with politics, the clintons desperate bids are crystal clear and dont fool anyone. You know, i really think the clintons are INSULTING THE INTELLIGENCE OF BLACK VOTERS!!! what a disgrace. Wake up black america, the clintons are taking you for a ride. They are not black and they DONT UNDERSTAND BLACK ISSUES except to get black votes when they need it.

Far Away   January 19th, 2008 5:41 am ET

Will the tears fall down again as Clinton frets (which Clinton?).

Oh, uhm, maybe both Clintons, this time. This is the biggest fairy tale I have every witnessed. It even has magic incorporated.

I look forward to the trinkets that will be 'handed' out (figuratively speaking) among the African Americans in South Carolina.

Sorry twins, they did not fight hard for the vote to exchange it for trinkets.

Far Away   January 19th, 2008 5:58 am ET

What you are seeing on the campaign trail - good cop, bad cop is EXACTLY how it will be there is a past and current president Clinton in the White House. There will be more rangling between who is right, what is right; how I did it, why it should (not) be done this way, but that way and God help us:

Give me a Break! This is indeed a fairy tale with magic in the center

Teresa, Omaha   January 19th, 2008 6:03 am ET

Some not so smart Hillary Clinton supporters want history to record the United States was ruled 16 years by the same family. If Mrs Clinton wins the presidency, she will definitely want a second term.

The issue is not about the first female president. The issue should be the record of the Clinton years. America is a great nation and the American people are suppose to look toward the future. Hillary and Bill Clinton will divide this country once again with all their past baggage. Don't cast your vote according to hollywood sparkle, check their record.

KK, Toronto   January 19th, 2008 6:05 am ET

I don't like the idea of Bush passing it over to Bush, Clinton passing it over to Clinton, we all know the consequences of passing over power, look at the Middle East right now, now Bhutto's son is in trouble if he takes over that party, so now America might be a mess if another Clinton pops up, but to be honest I have respect for Bill he was great, I don't know about this one yet, we rather go for the fresh one.

charlotte   January 19th, 2008 6:37 am ET

If your white and have black supporters your pandering. If your black and have white supporters your not pandering. If your black and have black supporters you are the answer to all their dreams. If your a Senator who votes on issues, as present, rather then YEA?NEA, you don't make mistakes, or do you?

j.r.   January 19th, 2008 7:03 am ET

I don't know whats the big deal having Oprah supporting Obama she has no expiriance about politics.She dosen't even have her prioratives straight is't she whom is leaving all those millions of dollers to some dogs ,instead of given it to starving childrens in Africa or here in the U.S.A. or to the sick poeple who are dien cause the lack of medical attention like ,iads .

j.r.   January 19th, 2008 7:13 am ET

first time i make an opinion abuot this comment .

Travis   January 19th, 2008 7:34 am ET

And the "bucks" just keep on running out there to speak highly of Mrs. Clinton. As a black man I find this funny.

They, the Clintons, know how black sheep think. Thus, they don't confuse us black folk with substance. Rather, they run Rangel, Lewis, Bob Johnson, and now Magic Johnson out there. Who will be next, the Globetrotters? Maybe 50 Cent or Katt Williams?

Go Romney or Thompson! It's time for a conservative to rise to the top.

James D.   January 19th, 2008 8:26 am ET

Who is the most electable Dem?

Newsweek says:

Barack Obama is "..the only one with a decent chance for a landslide."

Larry Buchas, New Britain, CT   January 19th, 2008 8:27 am ET

Uh, who understands the issues more, Magic Johnson or Oprah Winfrey?

I'll take brains over brawn any time. Obama's the only candidate that will change this country for the better.

Censored in FL   January 19th, 2008 8:38 am ET

CNN really needs to lose these anti Obama, pro Clinton moderators.

They don't like the truth.

lynn parker   January 19th, 2008 8:44 am ET

I wasn't aware that to convinse the American people you were the right person to be President of this country, you had to be a good comic so you could make fun of your rivals. Well Obama certainly made a fool of himself if that is all he could do. Maybe TV could use a good comic. Rush sure is old hat! NOW THAT IS CHANGE FOR YOU!

I wouldn't vote for this joker if the moon turned to Swiss Cheese. He sure has hit bottom when all he can do is make fun of HILLARY. Is this an example of how he intends to make change - and deal with World Leaders? I feel frightened that anyone could stoop so LOW and ask the American people to vote for the HIGHEST OFFICE.

lOVE TO SEE bo COME HEAD TO HEAD WITH BILL. PERHAPS OBAMA COULD CRAWL AWAY ON ALL FOURS

Chuckles   January 19th, 2008 8:51 am ET

Magic's endorsement is really not going to make any difference. To have a bunch of "B" celebrities or washed up athletes come out for you campaign is almost pathetic.

Who's next Weird AL Yankovic, oh wait I know John Rocker.

Billary suck   January 19th, 2008 8:54 am ET

I prefer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

Obama'08

tony 1161   January 19th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Seems like this is going to be decided by the Britney Spears generation,all style and no substance.We are going to replace a moron with someone who compares himself to Martin Luther King and JFK after spending 2,repeat 2 insignificant years in the Senate. Obama wasn't beaten,jailed or shot for his beliefs.only things he has in common with MLK ia that he speaks well and HE IS BLACK.OBAMA you're no MLK.more like JESSE JACKSON WITH A HARVARD DEGREE!!!!! ALL TALK,JUST TALK.

Anonymous   January 19th, 2008 9:00 am ET

Wow.. the jokes that come to mind seeing Bill Clinton and Magic together are endless. Magic might be the only guy to sleep wiht more women than Bill.

Truth Hurts   January 19th, 2008 9:01 am ET

THESE TWO WOMANIZING FOOLS NEED TO SIT DOWN. BOTH ARE KNOWN CHEATERS, SO THERE FOR HOW CAN YOU BELIEVE ANY THING THEY SAY. IF THEY WILL LIE TO PEOPLE THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO BE IN LOVE WITH, WHAT DO YOU THINK THEY WILL SAY AND DO TO AMERICAN PEOPLE THEY DON'T EVEN KNOW……..JUST SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

Billary suck   January 19th, 2008 9:03 am ET

"I actually took the time to wonder how long it would take for Obama to pull out the race card

….Didn't take that long at all….first, he was the hero of African-Americans"

She started with the race thing, and Obama was never a Hero to AA.
And keep talking like that about latino, it will just help Obama even more, I'am from Brasil and I am more tuned than you are.

Obama'08

Mac in Nova Scotia   January 19th, 2008 9:12 am ET

Bill Clinton is running for a third term under Hillary's name.
How will we ever miss the Clintons when they just refuse to go away?
Obama brings a message of hope for a better America. Hillary just brings more of the same old politics. Americans can do themselves a big favor by voting for Obama.

Theo   January 19th, 2008 9:26 am ET

What next, is Hillary going to get Larry Bird to endorse her??

Truth Hurts   January 19th, 2008 9:30 am ET

AS A BLACK MAN, I JUST GOT ONE QUESTION?… WHERE CAN I GET A APPLICATION FOR THIS RACE CARD I KEEP HEARING SO MUCH ABOUT. DO I NEED GOOD CREDIT, IS IT BETTER THAN VISA OR MASTERCARD. IS IT ACCEPTIED IN COURT HOUSES AND JAILS. HEY WHAT ABOUT WHEN IM PULLED OVER AND BEATEN BY THE POLICE. I GUESS ITS NOT ACCEPTED EVERYWHERE I WANT TO BE.

Truth Hurts   January 19th, 2008 9:35 am ET

THE RACE CARD IS THE FIRST CARD IM ACTUALLY APPROVED FOR.AND ITS SPECIAL INTREST FREE……… THANKS RACE CARD!!!!!! RACE CARD SERVING AMERICAN MINORITEIS SINCE 1968….

Walt, Belton, TX   January 19th, 2008 9:36 am ET

Such a good ole boy, Bill's just what Bugs Bunny characterized when he said "What a Maroon!"

Schroeder   January 19th, 2008 9:37 am ET

Interesting the comments of nonrelevancy below; however, when Obama paraded in Opray Winfrey, there was NO objection to a women who became rich off a half rate show that panders to a nonintellectual audience. Nor were there comments that her less than thought out school in Africa resulted in harm to child(ren). I imagine that the Obama audience/supporters, with their collective historic guilt and blind star struck notions, thought Obama's move to include Winfrey was a brilliant stroke of political manuevering. Enlighten yourself America and pull out of the cathode teat to educate yourself. As for Johnson, he was very couragous at the time of his disclosure and has continued to support Aids Awareness. The Clintons have been very supportive and outspoken of Aids awareness and assistance but hey, as several comments have said, that topic is yesterday's news. Hmmm, a man who has spent the last decade and half consistently supporting awareness of an illness he and millions of others have versus a woman who supports and "reveals" on whatever the news tells her is the topic of the day - wow, tough call.

man   January 19th, 2008 9:39 am ET

this network has been showing bias to obama… I cannot believe it… Where are your journalistic ethics?!

Mike T   January 19th, 2008 9:39 am ET

How interesting that CNN now is putting stories on the board and not allowing any comments. I count 8 stories on the ticker this morning with no link for comments.

Ed Stack   January 19th, 2008 9:42 am ET

It is my opinion that ANYONE who votes for Barack Obama is UNAMERICAN!…The man was not born here….his name has islamic third world country flair……his experience on an international level is nil…….his speech is poorly spoken….he claims he is disoriented and messy with paper……he repudiates the bible…….he is throwing out smoke screens and the minorties are buying it…….he is carrying votes PURELY based on RACE…….he attacks other candidates because he is unsure of himself…….in general…..he is WEAK and a POOR choice for President of MY country….the United States of America…….perhaps he should go to Indonesia or some other country relative to his personality and ability…̷