Devon, as an African-American, I am appalled that you have not given greater scrutiny to Bill Clinton's record. Why Bill Clinton and not Hillary? Well, because Hillary is competing for the African-American vote on the premise that her husband (Bill) helped African-Americans realize significant gains. Everything she says points to Bill's achievements, not her own. Now, back to Bill. The trouble I see in most analysis of Bill Clinton's presidency fails to place into context that America was coming out of 12 years of a Republican administration that crippled black America. Bill Clinton's policies were a reversal of most of the policies of Reagan and Bush and, inevitably, did have some benefit for black Americans.

However, to some degree, his record is embellished because of the reality of his providing a different platform from the previous two administrations. But as Malcolm X once said, "You can't drive a knife into a man's back nine inches, pull it out six inches, and call it progress." Black Americans must realize that King was not Reagan, but he was not the "black President" some of us held him to be. Did not Clinton ignore the Rwanda crisis? Did Clinton not dismantle the AFCD? Did not Clinton bring about the NAFTA agreement? Is Clinton not the reason why young black males face tougher jail sentences for committing similar crimes as white Americans? Did Clinton not institute the Rockefeller Drug laws? DId not Clinton have more prisons built during his watch than any other President in the history of the United States? Did Clinton not hang Harvard law professor Lani Guinier out to dry? As Bill Clinton would say, "GIVE ME A BREAK!" Wake up and smell the coffee. Bill Clinton cannot be solely examined for what he did better than Reagan and Bush but what he truly did for black America. While he did some things to improve the quality of life for Americans, he did a lot that directly hurt black Americans. Thus, to willingly give a vote to Hillary on the alleged great work of Bill without critically examining Bill's record would be a mistake on the part of black Americans.

As an African American I am apalled at Obama. He is using his color to misled black voters into thinking he knows what he's doing and that he is capable of leading international change. Who's he kidding! He's still in grade school. He needs to wait his turn and get some experience. Just cause he's a brother doesn't mean he's qualified to lead the nation, especially when so much is going wrong. We need EXPERIENCE and PROVEN LEADERSHIP, both of which Hillary has. Not to mention, we get Bill as an advisor.

I think that as viewers get a closer look at Obama they can see how shallow he is on substance and how he is simply trying to ride the race card and his charm into the white house. What a disaster that would be!

Imagine what this debate would have been like without John Edwards. It would have been only a nasty back-and-forth between Clinton and Obama. It makes you wish he could carry on with his campaign just so he could take part in any remaining debates. He was really smooth in this one. "Smart, Edwards is smart" is what I came away saying. It doesn't mean I'm voting for him, but I was impressed!

I watched the democratic debate and I got just what I wanted. I wanted to see the gestures, eye contact, spontaneous reactions and i wanted to hear who best gave their solution and agenda and plans to putting Amercia back on it's feet.

As an African American woman it would be great to see diversity in the selections over the upcoming years for the position of the President of the united states. It would be great to have Barack Obama as President if he was suitable and ready for the position. My reason for the debate was to specifically listen to all he candidates in explaining in detail within the 1-2 mins. as to how they would address the issue that face America now. It was easier for me last night.

Hillary has been a good student under Bill Clinton, you could hear that she had done her homework. She was more than ready to address any and all of the questions she was given concerning issues that aile the American. She was precise and detailed and explanatory in her delivery. She held her own. She had plans, and numbers and future goals on the table. I didn't really see her react until Barack included her in his response. She was convincing and she stood firm on her beliefs and ventures.

Barack didn't seem certain enough of his plans. He babbled and piggybacked and he seemed uneased by accusations by the Clintons that he couldn't seem to shake, and it hurt him last night. He spent most times defending himself on issues with the Clintons instead of telling the American people what he plans to do to get this country back in order. He didn't give a financial plan, a healthcare plan, a plan for security along with some other things he just didn't give direct answers to. We don't need him to give his numbers to Hillary we need him to give his numbers and budget to the American people. Where will he get the money to support his plans? He gave mini-speeches just as Edwards did. He didn't bring a lot to the table as he didn't on the first debate which was my reason for watching this one. I wanted to see if his actions were a pattern. I don't think he would be a bad choice for Presidency , i just think it shouldn't be this upcoming term, there's to much at stake right now for America, to much to be dealt with that causes for more than just hope and a new and fresh start.

We can't start brand new by sweeping everything old under the rug and trying new stuff we have to get in and determine where we went wrong , keep what worked and review the "new" as it pertains to what we can chance changing to make life better. We don't need "fresh and new" we need realistic and established and stable processes that have worked. We need hands on experience with great knowledge of what got us into this status, and can go forward running with resolution. I belive that Hillary can do that. She came out with most areas covered and no problem with addressing spontaneous questions.

John has done some homework but spent most of his time selling himself and his history in South Carolina, i was excited that he got the debate back to it's focal point as needed. He wasn' t afraid to answer questions concerning race and did very well in explaining himself. He was a voice to say HMMMMMMMM about if he could come with strong plans. He needs to find a way to be taken more seriously. He became famous when he put the debate back on track.

Originally I thought i would be voting for Barack because he was prepared for the chaos ahead but after last night i wasn't convinced. I will look to Hillary to see if she remains consistent in her agenda. thank you CNN for the coverage, the media isn't all bad(smile).

Bill Clinton should stay out to attach Obama. It is his wife's camgaipn, His wife should face off with her opponent. If she wants to lead on this country and its people she should have its capabiltities to defend by her self. NO from outsider.

Therefore, Hillary Clinton should stay out of this game. She is not a good candidate for American people. Because she can not handle business on her only.

ALL candidate should not attach each others past. They shold address what they will do and can do for this country in the future in my opinion. Everything in the past doesn't meanit will repeat. Lets not play dirty politic.

PETER CHOI
Sun Prairie, Wisconsin

Why do we need to see the Clintons income tax returns ?? People that have very little money don't run for office. I don't care how much money they make. Our current leader makes loads and just keeps adding it up as the price of oil goes up.
The debate was terrible. CNN encouraged this behavior. Obama did talk over Wolf and did not stop when asked. Not just Hillary.
I agree the use of the race card has to stop and stop now. We don't need 4 years of that. How did race come out of "fairy tale"
If this behavior keeps up they will turn the election over to the republican candidate.
Stop balming each individual for the economic mess we are all in. Its not just credit cards, it high energy costs, high gas costs. its the selfish corporate giants. Over $100.00 a month to heat a 870 square foot home (ranch style) no basement and the heat is set at 60 or below at all times. I know its just Michigan

Did everyone catch the comment Hillary made about our country being in disgrace across the world??……she can thank Bill for that…….we became the laughing stock of the globe due to his and her shenangans and immorality……do we want this in our White House again?? Bush may not be perfect but he has never(in fact no one)has done anything akin to the Clintons disgrace to our country. Clintons, please go away!

GO HILLARY!!!! Hillary looked great in the debate yesterday. We need a president that will stand up and not be afraid to deliver hard punches. Senator Obama's immaturity was clearly reflected. It seems like Senator Obama has difficulty figuring out whether he is running against Hillary or Bill. That’s not a good sign if you are running for President of America. The guy needs to get a handle on who his opponents are in this race. He needs to have more substance that saying that he is all about change. At this point it’s all Hillary.

Hillary has Obama for dinner.

Hillary demonstrated tremendous resilience, preparation, and intelligence. She clarified plans to the audience while making Obama look green, angry, and dazed. JE, bless his heart, means well. But, how will you convince rich people to lay down and give it all to the poor. Not gonna happen.

IT'S HILLARY IN '08.

Hillary For President !

She held her ground against a very hot headed opponnent.

It is something when a debater cannot remember what he
quoted to the editorial board in Reno, Nev. the previous day?

He should be greateful that Hillary did not mention that
Missy Michelle Obama served on the Wal Mart Board too!

Kudos To Hillary !

Raymond R
San Antonio, Tex.

OMG…..hillary is now taking credit for the success that the surge in iraq is having. she said they (iraq) has listened to her talk on tv and are afraid that when she becomes president, they will be done for…..talk about unmigated gall…this woman thinks of noone but the big "I", certainly not the people of this country.

HillBillary keeps touting her 35 years of experience but yet no one has called her out on it, but yet they keep talking about the inexperience of Obama. Why is it that she can tout her civil experience but not him? She has not more experience than Obama and why do people keep saying she does is beyond me. Being the wife of an EX PRESIDENT does not count as experience. So she can give it a rest.

Secondly, as for all these women who say they will vote for HillBillary because she is a woman now I see why BUSH got a pass. Idiots to say the least, you should take note from Pelosi, who has the opportunity to impeach but these imbiciles but refuse too. Gender nor race should be the determining factor for chosing a candidate. Change is needed and HillBillary is not it. It should be Obama/Edwards or even Kucinich. The media played the politics and did not give all the candidates a fair representation. That is why no media outlet should be moderating these debates. They should only report on them peroid.

Bill and Hill are doing everything they can to make this election a scrappy, feisty mudfight because that is the one fight they both have "experience" fighting and winning. Just when we thought we might finally have an election that might be a positive one about issues, Bill is doing all he can to make it personal.

Bottomline – Obama won the debate but Bill continues to win in making this country more polarized.

The Clintons are real politians. They lie, cheat and trick their way into what they want. They are experts on spin. You didn't here about spin until they came on the scene. "What is, is?"

It was truly an episode of The Bickersons. Hilary must have had a monstrous sized team to analyze every blink of Barak's eye since kindegarten. Sheesh….but, Obama knocked her down a few times. Good for him. She glared at him a few times which was very funny. In spite of what Hilary says, Bill is totally getting in the way. Vote for Hilary and you get a package deal. I think Barak Obama is the man. He was the only person last night who used these words in a sentence "there are limited resources!"

Obama is the Man!!!! Don't lie down to them teaming up on you. We know that they stick together when it all comes down. Hillary is a joke and Edwards needs to team up with Obama.

I love it when these incompetent anti-American socialist morons begin eating their young.

Obama had every right to defend himself against Hillary and Bill. First , of all I want to congrad Obama for standing up to Hillary. He has every right to stand up for himself. Second, the media, press, and supporter of Hillary need to pick up their faces. Obama was not to hard on Hillary, he just wanted to make his points. I don't want the same old people representing our country. Bush, Clinton, Bush Clinton, I want real and honest change, and Obama has proven he can and will deliver. Edwards does not have a chances against Obama nor Hillary. Obama Supporter!

This is the perfect opportunity for all of us to shout out who we support in this race. However one thing rings clear to me in watching these debates. They are loud and annoying. Anyone with anything better to do would have turned their tv's off last night unless they were in for a good fight. However the level of civility that needs to be maintained by the moderator just doesn't make it any fun. Where's Jerry Springer when you need him? Now that was real, right?
Ok, here's my opportunity to support MY candidate. Hillary is pulling at any chance she can to stay in this race. I think she realizes that Barack is a force to be afraid of. Barack is open and honest and explains himself. He has values and morals and will be a President that we can look up to and admire. I think that is what our leader truly should be. I do not find Hillary admirable and I don't know why people do. She's a shrewd businesswoman. That's it. It's time for change in this country. Enough with the Clinton/Bush era. It's time for Barack Obama and I am proud to support him.

Go OBAMA GO!!!

Senator Clinton was just pandering. She keeps using MLK reference like she knows the struggle. I was waiting for her to use her southern twang. This is one plastic woman who can not answer a straight question. I think Obama used words to the effect towards her that she goes after the “uneducated voters”. He right but what the Clinton war machine did not factor in was that * years when Mr. Clinton left office not everybody has computers and internet and was only force to watch CNN. Today is different and the Clinton’s can’t combat that so they smear the other candidates, normal clinton stuff. Obama look good and said nothing at the end and Edwards will soon be out of money. No Winners not even Wolfe

Obama is a whiner, and he is getting worse with each debate, poor baby, he can't get Hillary with his snide comments so he goes after her husband and whines, whines, whines..
Defended slumlords versus worked on Wal-Mart? hmmnn..which is worse..Wal-Mart actually gives people jobs and slum-lords take away that money and force you to live in shame.
Now the TRUE Obama is coming out and I don't like it..do YOU???

John Edward won hands down. He wants to get on with making our country great again. We need action not opinions.Opinions and no action is the reasoon our country is in the shape it is in today.

Obama/eloquence = oxymoron

I believe Obama rocked Hilary’s world, giving her a much needed wake up call.

Although many African Americans feel that the Clintons are ok compared to others, we as African People world wide must never forget what they represent, " Unearned Privilege.

Go Obama!

I am disgusted with the Clintons for setting this whole confrontation up and I'm disgusted with the sheeple who admire them for it. How can you look at "that woman" in (Bill's words) and not see her oozing with vitriol? She will nag and cajol and pout her way to the presidency not matter what it takes. She did not look presidential last night. She looked like somebody's ex-wife!

OK…one question…when will Obama and Clinton stop talking in generalities and start talking CONCRETE plans to help the USA. The market today is going DOWN…the recession has started folks. NEITHER CLINTON OR OBAMA HAS A GOOD PLAN TO STOP A DEPRESSION.

but I must say….
McCain is the most IMMATURE of all candidates

McCain acted like a 7th grade bully at the last debates. He did everything I taught my kids not to do….make faces, roll their eyes and snicker at people. He did ALL these things to Ron Paul. He acted like a spoiled brat. NO WAY would I ever vote for him. He should apologise to Ron Paul and to Mitt Romney for being disrepectful. LEADER OF THE USA????? NO WAY

i am checking out RON PAUL because the media is ignoring him , but people are talking about him EVERYWHERE!!!! HE has said we are in a RECESSION and apparantly the market is tanking today…SO RON PAUL is right!!!

I hope everyone readinng this has stocked up on food….prices are going to skyrocket like Ron Paul predicted

If McCain gets in as the Dems think he will, we will have 4 more years of Bushisms. What a disastrous thought.. DEMS BETTER WAKE UP AND QUIT FIGHTING AMONGST THEMSELVES AND GET ON WITH WINNING THIS ELECTION.

Obama seemed to divert from nearly every question he was asked – avoiding direct answers to direct questions. Edwards has class and compassion, and deserves more serious consideration from voters.

Obama's speeches are shiny but dull. If it is a wrapped gift ,it is neatly packaged but inside is nothing but a cheap leaded toy made in China. Not worth a penny.
Return to sender!!
Hillary 's is full of substance and zeroes in on the issues. Her delivery, however is not gut driven. She often has the tired grandma's look. But clearly, she is well armed with facts and experience. Hearing her debate Obama is almost your Mom wanting to spank you all over again.
Edwards speeches are cause and effect presentations or dissertations. But how much reality, given his trial Lawyer background, can a client siphon off big payment in a malpractice suit, if John is your lawyer, against a system whose odds so stacked up against you, then you've got to pay also darn lawyering fee in the end? You will end up empty and screwed all over again!!! So, John, please make us believe.

Close your eyes and feel your vote. It is a simple choice. WHO WOULD YOU WANT TO HAVE DINNER CONVERSATION IN YOUR HOUSE and tell him/her your dreams and aspirations and your life challenges, ever mindful, who would be intent in listening to you, who will make the promise and commitment to stand by you , and in the morning…you will feel a whole lot better instead of waking up and feeling guilty whom you have invited in and sat on that table.
Choose wisely.

I am for John Edwards, but I don't think he can get the nomination. So I am voting for Hillary. She can stand up to Bush & his corruption in Washinton. GO HILLARY!
How can we stand 8 more years of Bush & his rich people. The rich get richer & the poor get poorer. We have a Bush started war, the economy is in the gutter, the national debt is billions & trillions of dollars. Remember Democrats there was a surplus when Clinton left office. Are you forgeting all these things.

Hillary showed tonight why she SHOULD definately be PRESIDENT… She will FIGHT for us all , and she has the experience we need… Barack will be a great canidate … after he spends some time as her VP … CLINTON/ OBAMA would be an unbeatable ticket … and Barack could get the EXPERIENCE he lacks and then take his turn as PRESIDENT …. The Democratic Party will need 16 years to FIX Bush's mess …. They need to be SMART about this … HILLARY the first 8 years, Barack the next 8 …. Think people ….. Hearts aside … We need no less than 16 years , MAYBE EVEN MORE , to recoup from the mess the GOP and BUSH have gotten us into ………………..
CLINTON / OBAMA President / VP

Question…..12 Million Immigrants……healthcare for all 12 million…how many are legal? They'll need to prove their citizenship right? When it's time to get in line to register, must have green card…how many does that bring us down to that are legal? Maybe 40%? I live in a small city near Seattle. My apartment building is crawling with illegals. Mexican. East Indian, Phllipino, Arab. My partner cant be on my lease because she has a felony from OVER 10 years ago. Yet the main language on this property is Spanish….they dont even ask here for proof of citizenship. Property Managers of Apartment complexes should be held accountable for letting these people live here. Dont scrutinize the border patrols…American citizens are just as guilty to let this happen. Somebody mentioned to me to call the INS to "RAID" the place, it would be empty!!

HILLARY 08

Hello??? Is this the first debate anyone watched. I would love to support Obama or Clinton but to be honest Edwards is definitely the guy for me. He sticks to the issues and doesn't let anyone back him in a corner. John Edwards actually has values and NOT just while he is campaigning!!

I managed to catch this debate at 4am..couldnt sleep. However, being an unhappy republican..John Edwards might get my vote! Excellent debate!

Until the economy tanked, illegal immigration was the hot issue. Just why, in debate after debate, are the Democratic candidates given a pass on this issue. Most American voters want to know what their individual platforms are on this key issue.

Last night's debates ("slug fest" originating from Hillary–& inadvetently from
her husband, Bill} left me with one conclusion: I will vote for Obama or
John. Most likely Obama who has the class, the dignity, the honesty, and
the integrity to serve as President of the United States, which is, after all,
my country, too! In spite of the money and generous handouts from
American taxpayers and lobbyists, neither the Bush nor Clinton people
have a clue as to what this nation is all about! They seem to think and
act as if they are some sort of rulers or kings entitled to more power & money
for themselves. Hillary last night was atrocious! Obama and the fine people
he could & would surround himself with would remake
America into the great nation it is meant to be! OBAMA! OBAMA1 OBAMA1

CNN, love to remove comments not in favor of what they want to hear. But Clinton is the one who kept making attacks on Obama and partly because she has not substance. And people understand the 138 present votes that Clinton and Edwards was talking about was in the ILLINOIS SENATE NOT THE US SENATE. So do not get it twisted, and he was trying to explain that when they both attacked him. He indicted the process from the US SENATE IS DIFFERENT FROM THE ILLINOIS SENATE. But they made that an issue. The distortion of the issues is what HillBillary is notorious for and needs to be called out on it.

While John and Barack gave HillBillary her turn to speech that cackling idiot would interupt them constantly. She is worthless and needs to go. The Clintons are poison to this country just like the Bush Clan. Enough of both of these families. Can you people not seek change? But then again you fell for the BUSH FEARMONGERING!

Sen. Hillary Clinton won the debate! She is articulate, smart, to the point, defends herself with confidence. I see Obama as AIR no substance. He was angry and repeated nonsense when asked important questions on issues. Whining will not get you anywhere Barack. Buck up and stay on point – how do you think you can be president when you are so naive and inexperienced, two years in the Senate does not make you able to handle the vast problems and complex nuances of power to being president of a nation like ours. Try again in 8 years, maybe then you have finally GOT IT.

Obama started the attacks and he got the worst end of it at the debate. If the heat's too hot then get out of the kitchen. Once a person attacks another then the other person must defend themselves…pretty soon everyone is defending themselves with more attacks. I am very disappointed that Obama doesn't rise above it. A real leader needs to be able to rise above it and not engage in all the arguing. If Obama would accept personal responsibility for his votes and actions then we could move past it all. He didn't sound credible last night and that's really a shame. John Edwards and Hillary were more credible and more presidential. Obama needs to grow up and stop complaining about the Clintons. The more he complains the worse it gets. If he wants to win the Obama needs to divert his energy on more positive things and get really focused.

So Obama voted against the war in Irap… Good for him!
Is it enough for voters to elect him president, hardly!!!

After Bush's 8 years of war, fear tactics and now a looming recession, it's important that we choose a new direction. But it's even more important to choose someone who has experience and can deliver real results…
Poetic rhetorics about unity and healing are fine, but they won't get us out of Iraq and they won't pay my bills…

Let's call the Clinton's desire to be in the White House again what it is – Billary for President.

Because if you think Bill is involved now, just wait and see IF Hillary wins.

Then we will have Billarygate for the next chapter.

Obama has an ace in the hole. Its the word "adultery". LOL or "intern" at the very least. If Bill Clinton wants to push himself into this race, then Obama absolutely needs to remind the American people to ask themselves if they want the lying adulterer to return to the White House in a position of power.

Obama bombed in this debate. I really feel Edwards was the clear winner with Clinton a close second. I honestly feel Obama has no chance of winning vs. any of the likely candidates on the republican side. I also think the republicans would have no chance vs. Clinton. Also, I love Clinton's stand on health care, and am just fine with her approach to mid-east. All of this (an more) taken into account, my brain says vote for Clinton.

Barack’s comments on important issues – the economy and health care, in particular- were lame. His statements lacked substance, policy-wise. He also threw the first punch in the debate. He instigated the mudslinging, which Clinton responded to. Hillary only defended herself and her campaign. Nonetheless, I wish Clinton did not stoop to Obama's level during that rant. Where is Obama’s so-called politics of hope and unity? Sad thing is that corporate media is fooled by his highly overrated speeches. All empty rhetoric, no policy substance.

Doesn't Sen. Clinton and Sen. Obama realize that all of the "he said she said" snipping at each other hides where they really stand on the issues and turns voters (Dem, Rep, and Ind) off? They might as well go home and just give the Republicans the presidency. Get off each other's backs and start watching America's back.

Hillary and Obama shouild have been told to go stand in a corner until you both can act like adults

Hillary and Bill are dividing the Democrats and losing votes for the party by their nastiness. Obama is my number one—Hillary was a close second for me, but not any more. We need strong leaders joining together to get this country back on track, not vicious, feuding ones. The top three should be separating themselves from the disastrous current administration, not themselves. We deserve better than this!!

Go Hillary!

I think BO is just mad that Michelle isn't as good of a bulldog as Bill is!

Scott

Go!!!!! GO . Hilary, She is great

Obama Can' t Stand

You all are so narrow minded, and so much hoping your candidate will win, that you did not notice that Edwards was the true winner.

John Edwards sounded the most reasonable last night.

There is an old saying that fits all of the candidates running for president. “How quick we are to find faults in other but how much quicker we are to forget our own faults" If these debates are a preview of how our next president will run the country, we are all in deep trouble. Johnson had the Vietnam War, Nixon had Watergate, Ford had ?,Carter had Iran hostage rescue disaster, Reagan had Iran-Contra, old Bush had Gulf War 1, Clinton had perjury, lying, cheating, cutting the military (he was lucky the twin tower did not fall during his term), and Bush #2 had Gulf War 2 (Cheney and Rumsfeld’s war).
What will the president bring us and how quick will we see the next group of “president bashers” who will find fault in what he will do during his term in office. The people who do form these “president bashers” groups are normally people who hide behind the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights for protection. But when asked to stand in front of these two documents to protect them, they run away and cannot be found.

HILLARY was the winner!!!! She demostrated is strong, capacity, resistence, and will be able to response right in any circunstance intelligent!
GO HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT, make history with NO RISK!

GIVE ME A BREAK!
They are all playing dirty politics, and for anyone to accuse one and not the other of being a double-faced politician is ridiculous! Neither is perfect
Clinton has the poise and experience, Obama has fancy empty poetic slogans that won't get us anywhere fast…
After 8 years of Bush-mess, we need a real president…

I am ashamed to be an American right now…It's the George W. Bush thing all over again. I see it and the rest of the World sees it, but for some reason the American people don't see.

Hillary Clinton will Say, do or try to manipulate anything, true or untrue, to make herself look right. America has a fundamental problem of not being able to see what is REALITY and what is FALSE….and so does Hillary.

Thanks for sticking with Facts without trying to twist and turn them Mr. Obama and Mr. Edwards.

I've watched most of the debates this year – Republican and Democratic – and I think this one showed more of the true personalities of the candidates than any other – that being said, I think John Edwards stayed on message – showing his commitment to issues and his follow through on issues; claiming to not just have an idea but a detailed plan to put his ideas in place and a way to pay for them – and he looked Presidential.

Before last night I was not a John Edwards fan – but I think Clinton and Obama hurt each other, themselves and the party by bringing up the issues they did – they probably wound up giving really good sound bites for future ads for the Republicans

Obama is "lucky" that the Press & the Media has been protecting him and adoring him, and NEVER hold him accountable whenever he doesn't give straight answers…

Shame on the Media, Shame on Obama!!! BOOOOO!!!!

Obama, is clearly the best person for the job. People I know we loved what Bill did when he was president, but he is not running for office. It is crazy to think that what worked in the 90's will work today! We need a new look! We need a change! We need someone who strong. We need Barack!

The Clinton's have been influential in politics for years – Is the country truly better as a result of them. Are we more or less divided because of them. Do you trust them. What you hear from them is rhetoric – to get back in power.

Obama – Is accused of lacking subtance in his policy stances, be warned of the person who has all the answers. If the answers were that easy the problems would not exist. Hillary, Edwards, and all of the others have no real answers. Sure they have promises. I am tired of promises. Give me hope, give me unification, give me inspiration. Congress makes laws, not the President. the president should lead and OBAMA is the only leader I see in a crowd of all the same usual suspects.

Mr. Edwards, count me in as a supporter, you looked awesome in the debate in having the will to listen first , then speaking your mind in a diplomatic way, and not the childish way your other two opponets acted .

Obama's rehtoric was right out of a script (absolutely no substance at all) boring to listen to. Not the type of leadership qualities AMERICA needs Now.

Mrs Clinton, as a politician she a great speaker, we dont' need a politician now, we need a GREAT LEADER to LEAD US OUT OF the past 8 miserable years of the worst leadership by the BUSH ADMINISTRATION this country has ever endured.

John Edwards took this debate. He was very "Presidential"
Obama looked rattled and I was not impressed. I still like his message. However, he needs to understand if he is going to attack, others will defend themselves.
Hillary was steady, as usual. And, I didn't like the personal attacks, but i felt like she was defending herself. Finally, I felt Edwards was the calm voice and connected with me for the first time.

The truth of the matter is that Sen. Clinton was a board member to Wal-mart for six years and that the Walton family played a huge role in her husband’s political career. For this help Arkansas Gov. (and later President) Bill Clinton assisted Wal-mart when it came to the free trade agreement known as NAFTA. In addition, Sen. Clinton’s Rose Law Firm even handled much of Wal-marts legal defense.

Perhaps it is time for someone to publicly question her about her connection to Wal-mart and ask for straight answers.

It is apparent as an American traveling and living abroad, the American people, as individuals and as a country, have lost the respect and admiration around the world. Our President is a direct representative of each and every one of us. In order to repair this image we need a President who can build on 1) Honesty, which leads to 2) Trust, which finally generates Respect.

I find Obama’s statements and pattern of mimicking typical of a law education and not bearing substance. I was impressed with the fore thought and control in John Edwards statements; I would like to hear more of what he had to say.

The stage was literally set to invoke a battlefield between Clinton and Obama. Can you imagine if Edwards was seated between the two? I envision a much different debate… Clinton shows the ability to think critically and express her plan of action directly and clearly. Obama was questioned on his record by both Edwards and Clinton. His response left me wondering…

In order for the American people to once again shine and set the model, we need a President who can be Honest; first with them self but more importantly to the people they represent.

I want them both, it's a shame that there's not room for Edwards.

Barack Obama, talks and Reads the speeches that Martin Luther King, former President, Kennedy worte. He also stated that President Reagan did a great job in the 1980's , How would he know that, he was a child then?. He talks like he was in that Era. "Hello !!" We know what they all stand for. "Shame on you Barack Obama". You lost my vote and many others that I know about after tonight. YOU WERE VERY DISRESPECTFUL , ARROGANT, CHARCASTIC, ABNOCIOUS AND COCKY, TO YOUR FELLOW CANDIDATES. YOU THINK THAT WE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WANTED TO HERE YOU YELLING AND MAKING A POINT. " WHAT WE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WANTED TO HERE WAS WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO FOR THIS COUNTRY ". YOU NEED TO GROW UP. STOP AND HAVE SOME RESPECT FOR OTHERS. I ALSO SUGGEST THAT YOU Stop taking the speeches of the Great Leaders that have lead this Great Country and have past on. Write your own Speech. " AMERICA "PLEASE !!!!! ANALIZE AND THINK BEFORE YOU VOTE. YOUR VOTE COUNTS. WE HAVE TO BRING THIS GREAT COUNTRY BACK TO THE WAY IT WAS FOR OUR CHILDREN AND FAMALIES OF THE FUTURE.

The debate reminded me of a couple of children engaged in public name calling. Hillary and Obama constantly interrupting each other and talking over each other certainly didn't make any headway with me. Stop it already and talk the issues. Edwards won the debate hands down only because he was the only one that wasn't covered in filth from all the mud-slinging.

The Democratic Party candidates need to grow up.

I am not at all turned off by the debate or the debators. Isn't this what our country has always dealt with when faced with political opposition? Isn't this the very reason we have (2) different political parties? Obama and Clinton are showing that they are human beings (real). Great Job to both of you for being so passionate and real during these debates. John Edwards has shown himself in my opinion to be a coward but recognizes that he is NOT in this race. It looks as though he is using the bickering of the front runners to his advantage by portraying himself to be calm.; NOT WORKING, put on some gloves and suit up.

Obama and Clinton: Stick with the issues, fight about the facts(past decisions of current role) and keep the personal attack of character out of it. You both are well liked in the African American community for different reasons.

News Media: The African American Community is smarter than you think. Our vote is thought out more than looking at a familiar face or hearing a well versed phrase. We are looking and hearing the views of both candidates. Race or Gender will not win in the in, it will be the fortitude and the committment to Keep America Alive ! Passionately !!!

Hillary did not, and could not, have gotten where she is on her own merits, this debate and the last week prove it. Women achieve greatness on their own everyday, which is what should be rewarded.

Obama is very verbose with little substance. His inexperience really highlights his positions on most matters.

I do not understand all this bickering! Stay on the issues instead of on each other, seems to me that there needs some growing up to do from Obama, I do not want a weak president, I want a decisive president instead of a complainer.

Barack Obama is Charismatic, talks the talk, but cannot walk the walk, He states he wants Change. "Well" WE All Want Change!!!!!, But how can you change something you never had the experience with. I as an employer would Not Hire someone in my Corporation that does not have experience , because that would hurt my company and hold back production. The way this Country is now, We need someone that has experience and that has delt with Issues from the Economy to the Issues of War, Health and Education and also should have met and spoken to World leaders on different Issues. Which Barack Obama does not have the Experties . WE THE PEOPLE DO NOT NEED A PRESIDENT WITH NO EXPERIENCE AND THIS JOB IS NOT -ON THE JOB TRAINING.

It is obvious to me that Obama was being double – teamed both by Hillary and slick , ambulance chaser, turned straight man – John Edwards. He sat back like a tag-team wrestler waiting his opportuninty to land a few jabs in. The so-called moderator allowed Clinton to dominate the debate which caused Obama to become miffed and heated. This was intentional. It was laughable she called his voting record into question. When all she done is dodge her own.Especially Iraq. But, the facts are clear to me that Hillary can't handle opponents one-to-one. Either she needs her hubby to rescue her, or she enlists others aid. She lauds feminine strength, but when its convenient – cries on cue. That is weak, and only reinforced female sterotypes. I was not fooled by those crocodile tears. Despite being outnumbered – Barack took the gloves off and finally took em both on – both Clintons. Bill by proxy and especially his lying, two-faced, double -dealing wife.

The real "FAIRY TALE" here is that the nation will somehow magically transform into this "one America" under an Obama presidency. It sounds good and "feels" even better, but in reality it is a very elementary , unsophisticated view of American politics and government. Unfortunately, not even Obama can change the fabric and structure of the principles of the two-party system. The suggestion of such is simply naive. However, if you really have drank the koolaid and believe the"FAIRY TALE", then please ask him how he plains to accomplish this daunting task. Until he provides substance to substantiate his form, he is merely playing the same "ole" political game: making promises he cannot deliver.

The media has focused on just 2 of the Democratic candidates for too long, as the issue of a potential "First Woman" of "First Black" president has so much allure for them. They've forgotten, intentionally or otherwise, that John Edwards is a very capable and viable candidate. It's time that he was no longer unfairly and deliberately ignored by the news media.

The media has focused on just 2 of the Democratic candidates for too long, as the issue of a potential "First Woman" of "First Black" president has so much allure for them. They've forgotten, intentionally or otherwise, that John Edwards is a very capable and viable candidate. It's time that he was no longer unfairly and deliberately ignored by the news media. The election isn't over yet.

Obama clearly was only setting straight his record as Clinton was clearly trying to twist and reveal his record in HER best light. . .I can remember one John Kerry being brutaly critcized for not batting down the swift-boaters when they twisted his record. . . keep on Obama. . .what else were you suppose to do? Cave in? Then what would all of us who don't know you say? Keep on Obama. . . : )

Our country needs a new direction and Obama offers that which is what? Change? oh ok, what is "Change" ? "I am not George Bush?" sorry, but that doesnt cut it for me or maby anyone else with commonsense.

He reminds me simply of Kerry. A man campaigning for the highest officer by saying " im not the past, im a change of face" Sorry but that by far does not cover the details needed to make a choice.

Hillary/Edwards 08′

Obama possesses integrity. The same could be said about Clinton and Edwards. But the main attraction tonight was Obama once again. He is sharp, alert, and always ready with a good answer. He came through as the most truthful candidate tonight when he turned to Clinton, Edwards, and the audience and proclaimed that no politician is entirely clean. This is a fact that America must read into. Obama was the only candidate courageous enough to highlight this political fact. Obama gets my vote for enduring Edwards/Clinton attacks and for appearing as the most sincere speaker on the stage.

Barack Obama, should tell, the truth to the American Peolple, He keep reading the speeches of Kennedy, Martin Luther king, and now is making comments about former President Reagan on how Great the 1980 's were, How can he make that comment when he was a child then. " Shame on you Barack Obama " (and ) Please write your own Speech and stop using the Speeches of the Great Leaders That have represented this Great Country and have passed on. He should Write his Own Speeches. He also did not sign for the war. Well he couldn't because he was not a Senator then. That's why he did not sign.

I am shocked at the American people after reading here. I watched the so called debate because I might end up voting Democrat. I found myself forgetting this was a Presidential debate. It is embarassing for America. I found little substance for making a decisive choice. It would have to go to John Edwards, even though Hillary did have some excellent ideas when she wasn't verbally slugging it out with Obama. I hope people see that he is just not ready for the pressure his fellow politicians will put on him before and after election. He got way to rattled and couldn't hardly even speak at times. How would he handle the pressure when he had to face criticism or anything else from foreign countries. Bush has embarassed our country enough. Please wake up and realize he is just not ready for the big time. I like him but it is not his time.

Obama is lightweight comparied to Hillary. Do you think he can really do the hard negotiations it takes with the Republicans and foreign countries… I DON'T THINK SO!

Obama is in and Up Go Obama

Let the demo's continue to bicker so the public will lose intrest in them and vote for a more mature republican….

Obama has shown that he will make the world a better place to live, PEACE. Go Obama GO

NO to BUSH CLINTON CLINTON BUSH BUSH CLINTON CLINTON….. and then what BUSH?

CHANGE IS CHANGE…. HILLARY IS NOT CHANGE….

and better a cocky president (OBAMA or EDWARDS) than a crying wench….

Hillary and Obama are acting like children. they will not stand a chance against the republican nominee. We better vote Edwards or it will be 4 more years of republicans in the white house. Hillary and Obama and Bill are dividing the democratic party to the point of no return. Republicans may like each canidate for different views but they are united as a Party. And ready to support whoever the nominee is. Democrats either love or hate Hillary and Obama. they cannot even unite their own party do you think they can unite this country. PLEASE WAKE UP BEFORE ITS TO LATE, EDWARDS IN 08

Interesting, as an outside observer, with no vested interest, it is refreshing not to have Bill Clinton invoved. Winner would have to be John Edwards,surprised, I had all but written him off, 3 way race should be back on.

Barack Obama, talks about Martin Luther King, former President, Kennedy also stated that President Reagan did a great job in the 1980's , How would he know he was a child then?. He talks like he was in that Era. "Hello !!" We know what they all stand for. "Shame on you Barack Obama". You lost my vote and many others that I know about after tonight. Stop taking the speeches of the Great Leaders that have lead this Great Country and have past on. Write your own Speech.

obama sounded really stupid

After watching the debate, my vote goes to Edwards. Hillary is very strong, and I liked her composure. Obama is not nearly as good a public speaker as I had hoped. If he can't stand up to Hillary, he won't survive in the white house. He came in dead last in this debate. In the end, Hillary and Obama seem more concerned with insulting each other than getting their issues across. John Edwards was composed and articulate. I loved his use of humor and his ability to turn, even for a moment, the discussion back to the issues. Edwards now has my vote.

The media has done a fine job in adding to the divisiveness of the election process by interjecting race. Black women and men are voting for the best person to lead the country, not on race or gender.

Hillary Clinton is a good speaker, but I do not feel comfortable with her as president. Bill Clinton was a good president, but I do not feel that America is ready for another Clinton.

Barack Obama is presidential and has the charisma to unite Democrats, Republicans, and Independents of all races.

The important thing that we must consider is coming together for this country to maximize its efficiencies, maximize wealth, and restore the integrity of being a great nation. Divisiveness will eventually lead to lawlessness. The choice is yours! Vote Obama!

The media has done a fine job in adding to the divisiveness of the election process by interjecting race.

Hillary Clinton is a good speaker, but I do not feel comfortable with her as president. Bill Clinton was a good president, but I do not feel that America is ready for another Clinton.

Barack Obama is presidential and has the charisma to unite Democrats, Republicans, and Independents of all races.

The important thing that we must consider is coming together for this country to maximize its efficiencies, maximize wealth, and restore the integrity of being a great nation. Divisiveness will eventually lead to lawlessness. The choice is yours! Vote Obama!

RACE AND GENDER>>>Yada…yada….yada….the candidate being discriminated against is EDWARDS…truly…….and it is the holy media that is doing it….race and gender eh?

Anyone that is calling any one of these candidates a liar, has never experienced politics and must have been born yesterday. If Obama thinks Hill & Bill are tough, I couldn't imagine how he would react if he won the nomination. He would go through a mental breakdown and need Oprah's support group and Dr. Phil's "medical advice" . His arrogance is really starting to shine through with his actions in Nevada where he failed to deliver a speech to his supporters & volunteers, and now his pathetic complaints about Bill Clinton and his attacks on Hillary, which he pledged not to do in his campaign. Where is this "Change" he speaks of? Looks like politics as usual, to me.

How can anyone support Obama, he has not proven himself as a leader or as an effective candidate. He won by a landslide in Iowa, then lost in NH, MI, and the popular vote in NV, and some of you believe he can win in a general election? That is a joke. He is supposed to be a unifying force? His voting record, proves that he will not or is not able to fight for what the American people need. He would be unable to stand up against Corporate America, and would not protect the environment, as he voted twice for the Yucca Mountain nuclear storage program.

Reality Check – If you believe Obama is the catalyst for change. Where is it? Are Senators Powerless?

Anyone that suggests Hillary would not fight for us, has not looked at her record. She has more than proven her strength to be a competent and capable leader, even in a bipartisan manner. Working with such "people" as Senator Graham (R) and Newt Gingrich!

Don't vote for a push over (Obama), vote for the candidate that scares the other side of the aisle into submission (Clinton).

P.S. There are two America's and if you don't believe that, go visit the inner city and then visit the suburbs.

THAT WAS AN INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE BY SENATOR CLINTON

She stuck up for her record, platform, and words SO WELL

It's time Obama gets out the kitchen (since he can't stand the heat).

Barry Obama's campaign is SO DIRTY; it's masked by this "Hope" litany–thanks to CNN for allowing us to see the real deal!

Pu-leez! Hillary is desperate! Yup, the Republicans want to run against her because her baggage will sink the demos.

How could you people POSSIBLY think Obama did well last night? Of course, the media is spinning it in his favor, as usual. He's black, so he's obviously above any media scrutiny. Hillary OWNED him! He's a liar, and nothing more than an "empty suit". He voted "present" 130 times???? Including bills HE sponsored?!?!?!? He has ZERO chace of winning the nomination. If for some strange reason he DOES win the nomination, I'll either not vote for him or I will vote for John Mccain.

I am a South African and I had the privilege of watching the debates. I am in the fortunate position of not being a supporter of any of the candidates. It was very clear to me that the winner of the debate was John Edwards, not only because he looked more Presidential than the other candidates, but also because of the substance and manner of his answers. So I am quite surprised by some of the comments posted with regard to the debate. I can see now why the Democratic Party struggles to win the White House in elections. I should not generalise, but the Democratic Party seems to have voters who tend to vote with emotions. Forget race and gender or name recognition, you need to start voting with your heads. The divisive nature of both the Clinton and Obama campaigns will make it difficult for them to unite your country. Change should start now, and not when the new President takes office, and quite frankly the way you run your campaign tends to mirror the way you will govern.

It is just a shame that Sen. Hillary cannot stand for herself and needs a hand from former President Cliton. If ever Hillary was elected President, it is obvious that Cliton will be the one making all decisions. No, no, no, no,…, we need to move forwards and not turn around. This country needs changes and not the types of small changes that Hillary is talking about. Obama has the wisdom and the means to deliver the types of changes that must be implemented now.

Clinton tactics is clearly letting Bill doing all the dirty work while HRC takes no responsibility of any of it. of course BO looks bad fighting back, for those of you who followed the campaign only starting recently.

Why don't you all go ahead support Hillary into nomination, so the Dems can lose, you don't deserve the presidential chair anyway.

man i like hillary and somewhat like obama but after hearing this debate john edwards needs to get his credit, he handled this debate calmly, though it was biased against him.

Hillary- President
Obama- VP
Edwards- VP

I can't believe how CNN and every other networks are cheating John Edwards. I believe and know he is the best choice. He burns with all the issues that every American says are important. I'm from NC. I live 10 minutes from Chapel Hill, where I have personally seen how much this man does for the underprivileged. I know that no matter if he wins or not. He will continue this fight. I believe it is a great day in America when a African-American man and a woman can headline every newscast on a political stage. The problem I have, is that people are naturally followers. The media gets to dictate who they believe are the best candidates for them, for the ratings. I hate that. I believe that for the first time in America, the fact that Sen. Edwards is a white man, may hurt him. It's ironic considering how much John has done for equality, not only in this state, but across the world. I believe any change is better than none. Though, I know personally that Sen. Edwards, burns with the desire to not only become President, but as well to help us become a better society. I don't want CNN to take offense to what I'm saying. I know this is a business, though doesn't it take away from what makes this country great when Anderson Cooper and his colleauges, laugh about the fact that Edwards remains in this race, as if he doesn't matter and has nothing to say. I believe that any American that embraces politics and the holding of public offices, should take offense to that. Anyone can be president, if they work hard enough. Sen. Edwards has been working for the greater good and will continue, no matter what!!!!!!

I believe that too many people are believing the Republican press. Unfortunately the Obama and Clinton campaigns are amongst those. We have the Republican "we hate Clinton" ads inundating us, and too many Dems believing that the Republicans are resigned to a Dem Pres, and are just rallying against Hillary.

We even see Obama pandering to them to defeat Hillary. Don't get me wrong, Edwards and the Clintons did take some license with his comments, but no one can really pretend that they were made for any other reason than to pander to Nevada Republicans to get them to the Dem caucus' to defeat a common foe.

The arrogance that the Conservative media like Rush is counting on is that the Dems think that a black man or a woman will be an easy sell to a greater American stage. The idea of even just a woman or a black man as major political party candidate, is exciting. But we aren't even there yet. Remember Edwards is not out of the race. If either Obama or Clinton make history and become the Dem nominee…. that is when the up hill battle actually begins. Invoking the name of Reagan or sniping over Iraq positions will not aide either candidate in the actual presidential race. There will be voters inside and outside the party that will not vote for a black man because he is black, or a woman because she is a woman… and far too many that will not vote for either because of race AND gender.

Dems can't be lulled into false security by Republican talking heads. The "McCain beats Clinton" scare tactics need to be ignored. Racism and Sexism is alive and well in America. Take nothing for granted and stop using republican tactics as a means to an ends or we all lose.

Sen. Clinton and John Edwards are two of the sleaziest, low-character politicians ever to run for office in this nation (along with Bill). Save us from them please. Obama stands head and shoulders above them both but has no idea what he is talking about…he knows nothing about foreign policy, the economy, terrorism, etc. But, he will learn. He is an honorable man. The other two care nothing beyond the power they hope to gain for themselves. Clinton and Edwards are truly terrifying and would destroy this country if given the chance. I am going to vote for whoever the Rep. candidate is or be glad for Obama.

Hillary is the winner! John and Barrack can help her in the General Election campaign, so don't be so nasty, gentlemen. Best wishes.

This nonsense about Hillary sounding more confident. No offense but that is such a cliche and typical answer from a female. Why is everything about confidence with women? You go after "confident" guys only to cry about how horrible they are to you. Also because none of you have confidence yourselves thats why. Just because someone sounds confident does not mean they are right. There are a lot of "confident" people in America who are RUINING America. Sometimes you have to have some doubt in yourself to become stronger and smarter.

Stop taking in the heat of the moment like its Grey's Anatomy and think about the real world. We have had a Clinton in office already. He was socially a democrat and economically the biggest Republican ever. He even said at his library speech "I am a little bit of red and a little bit of blue". He also lied to the entire country and that is a FACT. His wife however, is a socialist and was proudly supporting some Communist ideals in her youth. She is connected to a bunch of corporate monguls so how is she the best choice? She doesn't care about anyone PERIOD.

It's time for the end of the Clinton's and Bush's. America needs to find their minds and hearts and realize we need something completely new, not just something we can identify with. The Clintons always will lie and say anything they have to if it means getting back to the White House. And yes there are videos on YouTube blatantly showing her lying.

As for CNN, I am very pleased with your balanced coverage for the most part and numerous contributers for each candidate. It is a huge step for CNN, but I still feel like you are sneaking Hillary support in. I hope you all are smarter than that.

It's not that I wouldn't consider a woman for President, just not Hillary, a woman who rides her Husband's fame to try and get in.

I'm an independent, but I could never support someone who is for abortion. In my view I would be partly to blame for the death of millions of babies.

But I really would like to vote for Obama. He is the first politician who has ever inspired me. That speech he gave after he won Iowa gave me goosebumps.

I applaud Obama for going after Hillary with all he had tonight.

In a presidential debate, you are generally not supposed to act that way. But his hands were tied. Hillary tried to come into tonight playing good cop, and pretend that all the low blows Bill put on Obama never happened. But this was Obamas only chance to straighten things out. And he went after those two with all he had. Bravo, Bravo!

Obama might not win. The Clinton machine is powerful. I cannot believe so many people would vote for Hillary.

Congratulations Barrack, If you go down at least you went down swinging!!!!!!

As an active duty service member and presently serving in the desert, I like Obama and Edwards as the # 2 guy. We need to stick with the biblical prinicple on leadership. In today's society, we need a STRONG and UPRIGHT leader to guide and direct our GREAT nation to a better ecomomic state and support the entire armed forces thoughout.

Ummm….HOW IS HILLARY GOING TO PROVIDE THIS CHANGE, AGAIN???

a voite for Hillary is a vote for the pass, what we need is to look to the furture
and obama is the candate for change

I guess Hillary will turn on the tears now and will then think everyone will feel sorry for her.

Hillary has all these years of experience to do the old politacal rumble even with lies. I liked that she wasn't happy that she was told, basically, that if she is elected we will have the old, so old again that got us in this situation to begin with.

I disagree that she had answers as to how she will do things. She is clear about what she says she wants to do which is to tell us all what she knows we want to hear. Obama was right in stating we will have the old with her in office.

She also cut him off when he was stating clearly he is a Christian because of all the ridiculous rumors people spread and too many just want to believe.

Edwards kept his cool but he wasn't under attack either. So I don't think we really saw him as he might be under attack.

LESS B.S. and MORE ISSUES DISCUSSED is what I think we need to hear.

Sadly most of these posts seem to be from people who have already made up their minds and are viscous in the comments. This can only lead to another catastrophe like we have suffered through for the last eight years. Wake up people!!!!

To CNN, The fair broadcasting network, I hope your moderation dept. has not
forgotten freedom of the press.. After all, I'ts what you guys stand for. Thank You

Every attack Hillary and Obama launched at each other is the same thing both camps been saying about each other on the campaign trail. Obama had to go after Clintons on their attacks against him. Hillary and Bill is always twisting his words and misrepresenting what he said he had to address them because people believe a charge if you don't respond to it especially when it is coming from such a high regarded figure like Bill Clinton. He had to stand up to both the Clintons and their twisting of words. The second half Obama out shined Clinton and Edwards.

Barack Obama is the only candidate who can truly inspire real change.

Though Hillary Clinton is a strong leader who brings many qualities to the table, her greatest weakness is her inability to unite. While she certainly is a fighter who knows how to get what she wants, her nomination will once again ignite the Republican machine and fan the coals of division amongst us all over again. She will win the election though, and in the process, create bitterness among Republicans and Democrats alike. Her campaign is a freight train, an unstoppable media blitz that will stop at nothing to win, even attacking one of its own. (See Bob Johnson on Obama), (See "Unsourced" Obama is a Jihadi Email) (See Anything Bill Clinton says about Obama). Her relentlessness will be her strength.

If you're a Democrat and you want to vote for someone who you know can win, Hillary is your candidate. She hasn't lost an election since high school.

For those Democrats out there that are sick of politics, politicians, and the B.S games they play. Ask yourself: Why do things have to be this way? Why have we been talking about fixing social security for 30 years and nothing has been done? Why have we been talking about fixing healthcare for two decades now and nothing has been done? The answer should be fairly simple, because we keep voting for the same kinds of candidates. The kinds of candidates who are too concerned about winning votes from within their party lines and not concerned enough about actually making change in the America that is more than just red states and blue states.

We are one people and we need leaders who will represent all of us, not just those within our party. (I think we've seen enough of that in the last president. )

I truly believe in Barack Obama. I've had the wonderful opportunity of seeing all three of these frontrunners here in Iowa but something struck me right away about Mr. Obama that was different. In his candor, his words, and his demeanor he caught me off guard. There is something truly genuine about this man.

I've spent the last couple weeks watching attacks roll into his camp from other candidates. After the Iowa caucuses, the blitz began and it hasn't stopped. Some might say that this is the inevitable role of a frontrunner: to take heat from all directions. But these attacks have been increasingly personal as of late. Strangely though, I've felt more inspired than ever about Mr.Obama's candidacy. He's onto something, something big…and it's taking all the political might of Mrs. Clinton's
freight train to quell his message of unity and hope. I just hope other Americans can see what is really going on here.

"I steer my bark with hope in the head, leaving fear astern. My hopes indeed sometimes fail, but not oftener than the forebodings of the gloomy."

Thomas Jefferson

Please, don't think I'm just picking on Hispanics, The previous comment
should be applied to everyone that I am currently paying for….

Hillary likes to say that the Republicans have been after her for years and she's still here. Hmmm, haven't the democrats been going after Bush for 8 years, and isn't he still here?

I am glad to see Obama stand up for himself under fire. I have long been a Bill Clinton supporter, but his slash-and burn tactics and mis-representations of Obama's positions during this campaign have cause me to lose respect for him and his legacy. He looks like a Little League parent instead of the head of the party.

This exercise is making Hillary look shrill and reminds people why they do not like her. Push her buttons a little and that "voice " she found can get pretty vindictive.

It was good for us to see, I was glad that Obama could return the punches from Ms. Clinton, and lets remember wath the President her husband said to all of us with his finger in the air, I NEWER H…………. well thats history and I hoppe olso Ms. Clinton
Obama is a brese of fresh air and that is wath we need in our country, hope God is on his side and on ours.

The problem with political spin the way Americans have been conducting it is that one Democratic candidate can claim that a fellow Democratic contender is a Reagan-loving Republican and continue to lecture on Republican flaws. Perhaps the worst crime of this "Reagan-lover" was that he found something to admire in the opposition.
The danger is when the world tries to imitate our political spin and Bin Laden can claim he was just waging "Jihad" when he financed people who drove planes into our buildings. Many Americans may disagree with Bin Laden but there will be many in the world that can agree with that "political spin." In the old testament world of the Middle East…Jehovah (or Allah, in this case) tells followers to destroy man, woman, child and burn the spoils. Bombing civilians may be more viable as political spin in the Middle East.
A plain spoken, well-reasoned, straightforward Presidential Candidate may be preferable after years of political spin or religious rhetoric.
Political spin isn't based on the merits of an issue just an attempt at making busy Americans head "spin" at sound bites of opposing candidates.
It's refreshing to see Obama take a direct, well-reasoned and earnest approach at answering the pressing questions of our day. Truth has it's own charisma.

Obama ROCKS!!!

Hillary is miss leading! Go Obama!

The more Obama attacks Clinton the less appealing he becomes – switching over to Hillary

Remember when Hillary said that it took Lyndon Johnson to enact civil rights legislation that Obama played the race card and accused Hillary of denigrating MLK. Hillary did no such thing. She was simply pointing out that it took a skilled top politician to bring about lasting change. Talk alone could not do it. She was needling Obama for being a big talker and not a doer. So the empty suit blew up and screamed racism. Shame on him.

Obama is a loser. Good-bye, Obama.

I think this was the best debate to date.

We found out who can actually speak and speak to issues.

I found John Edwards very interesting in the debates in the last election and I do now also.

I have actually met Hillary Clinton on several occasions as well as her husband and the Gores. I have no met Obama. I also have met and have known the Bush family for many years as I come from a political family with one member having been a governor. Maybe I see things a little differntly because of this.

What amazed me more than anything in this debate was that Barack Obama can not speak. He stumbles and bumbles his words almost as badly as Bush. We do not need someone else in the Oval Office that does not have the ability to speak. I had noticed this before tonight, but tonight it was glaringly obvious and made me cringe. If the person that holds the most important office in the world can not put two words together with out bumbling around we will be no better off than we are now. We see what someone that can not speak has done to us.

My own personal opinion is that Clinton/Edwards would make a good ticket. One that can beat the RNC I am not sure. Clinton/Obama is a questionable ticket. I think there is a lot of animonsity between those two and it would cause them to not be able to work together. Again, IMO

For me, the two people in that debate that gave the impression of being Presidential was Clinton and Edwards. This race for the nomination is being scewed because there is a woman and a black person running. It should not be about either of those issues.

Well, I am an outright Barack supporter. I admire John and dislike Hillary. At my most objective, I've to say that tonight's debate winner was John. I hate these kind of debates where bringing out skeletons takes preference over discussing actual issues that matter. This debate showed two of the three candidates in very bad light and I am shocked and disappointed that the host didn't do anything to stop it. There were seemingly no rules tonight. It was constant back and forth childish bickering. What message does this give to voter and viewers? John exactly got it right and he used the situation greatly to his advantage. He hit the nail on the head when he said that where are we going to get with this kind of squabbling. Nowhere is the answer. The debate is supposed to be a platform for candidates to discuss issues and not to blame each other but tonight that is what they did. I think Barack and Hillary both need to realize that both of them are not perfect. Nobody is. And every human makes an error in judgment and makes wrong calls at times. But in the end it is about whether you realize that you made a mistake and learn from it and move on. Its not about what you did, its about what you can do. So please stop this childish behavior and act like president

THIS SOUNDS LIKE MONDAY MORNING QUARTERBACK.IF WE DIDINT HAVE TO DEAL WITH THE 9/11 CONSEQUENSES WE WOULD HAVE A BETTER
FINANCE STATUS BETTER RELATIONS WORDWIDE MORE JOBS AND MAYBE EVEN BETTER HEALTHCARE AND SSI STATUS PRES.BUSH HAS SPENT ALL HIS TIME DEALING WITH 9/11. THAT IS THE ONLY THING HE SHOULD BE JUDGED. ON THE ISSUE OF RACE AND GENDER TAKE AN AUDIT YOULL BE SURPRISED. WE NEED TO UNITE AND FIGHT ALL OBSTACLES AND TAKE BACK THE RESPECT THE US ALWAYS HAD. EVERY TIME THERE IS A CRISIS AROUND THE WORLD WE ARE THE FIRST TO REACT.LET SOMEBODY ELSE TAKE CARE OF THAT AND LETS TAKE CARE OF OUR OWN DIRTY LAUNDRY.

Do we really want another Clinton in the White House?
yuck

Obama cleaned up tonight. The easy assessment is to say that this was "negative" bickering that the voters don't like and so both lost. But this time that conventional wisdom is wrong. I was a Clinton supporter until this campaign. We have seen with them that it simply is about winning at any cost and we know so well now that that sort of politics has destroyed our government and harmed our country. Obama did something really remarkable tonight. He managed to go on the offensive and "attack" by lifting us up out of the mud and challenging Clinton to debate on the truth and the real record she so easily twists. Here's what the media should take away from this debate. When confronted with the Clinton half truths, Ms. Clinton, without hesitation, defaulted to what is her habit–sleezy politics (the slumlord comment which Obama batted away cleanly). She was visibly shaken by being called out and showed us that, in the end, they will cut a good Democrat to shreds if it means holding on to their station. Obama by a mile tonight, Edwards an admirable second, and Clinton a distant and revealing third.

Bill, you couldn't be more wrong…Debates like this show the character of the candidates and in this debate Hillary certainly sure showed obama who wears the pants in the democratic party !

Edwards is such a suck up! can't start the debate until he thanks every living person out there.He first slams hilary and is on obamas side and now its vice versa. Hilary would not be as popular as she is if it wasn't for bill. If bill never was the former president than the only thing she would have going for her is that she is a women. Obama is the best choice. Go Obama!!

Edwards smells like a ROSE! R:)

The clear winner of this debate was Edwards. He has the sense to stay out of the petty bickering and stick to the ISSUES! He's got my vote.

Hillary is getting better and better….i love it..

Good debate

All 3 candidates have outstanding credentials, experience and abilities to relate to diverse populations.Our country would be well served by either of these highly articulate , dedicated and driven individuals.
However,Hillary does not Need Bill….and demonstrated an exceptional ability to articulate "her" plans and actions in an otherwise historically Male dominated political process. Hillary can handle anyone or any circumstance that comes her way, gracefully or not. Hillary Clinton displayed exceptional leadership ability and certainty in her drive and ability to achieve new horizons for all Americans.

I hear Edwards talk about poverty every chance that he gets. Does anyone know the size of the house that he built? I read that it cost him $6 million to build. How can he relate to poverty when he lives in a $6 million dollar mansion?

Hillary: Came across as bright, well rehearsed, and an experienced politician. Also seemed arrogant and condescending at times. Acused Obama of the same thing she and Bill are guilty of: slam Obama, then explain that what they said isn't what they said or meant. Bill's campaign style is unbefitting of a former President (I voted for him twice).

Obama: Is the best candidate for the presidency in terms of character, leadership ability and style, vision and policy goals. He comes across as intelligent, serious, genuine, and truthful – as a real person. Not at his best tonight.

Edwards: Had his best performance tonight. Bright and genuine. He took the high ground and also stirred the pot a little.

In reviewing the debates for a second time it gives you a second chance to make an informed opinion. Obama would make a great motivation speaker. He is great at telling people what to do. His experience has been as a civil rights activist.

Those are his talents….somewhere, someone decided to make him into a politician. The fact that he voted "present" all those times when the people of his state expected him to take a stand is a red flag on how he will be as a president. Not good for our country.

Now I am torn between Edwards and Hillary but still leaning towards Hillary.
She has the experience for the condition of our country and lets face it she will have great advisors who have already taken this country to greatness, with her intelligence I believe she is the candidate to help us……..Edwards is not totally out for me but forget Obama he has shown how much of a true phony he can be.
And in re watching the debates, he took the first and second shot at Hillary, did anyone really think she was going to be a punching bag for him……….and he is a whiner……….Bush has competition there.

All of you Hillary supporters..LISTEN UP!

"Hillary and Silly Bill" have been throwing mud at Obama since they lost in Iowa because they are scared! They thought this was going to be a lay down for them..well,it's not is it!! What do you expect Obama to do for cryin out loud…the man has to spend more time defending againts lies made up by the "Clinton Lie Factory". The Clintons are a joke and I am embarrassed that she is even running.

Hillary says a lot of words, but never says anything. She spends too much time attacking Obama, which makes him waste time clarifying and responding o Hillary, so she can go on attack again. In the end no DEM says anything and the Republicans know this.

The last 20 years it has been BUSH-CLINTON-CLINTON-BUSH-BUSH- so the last thing we need right now in this country is another CLINTON.

Change means- something OTHER than Clinton- in fact Hillary supports change-that's her platform.

I voted for Bill Clinton twice. To say that the Clinton team has disappointed me is the understatement of the year. The craziness and anger of former President Clinton with his attacks on Obama and Hiliary's attitude during the debates makes me want to throw up.

I will be voting for Obama in the primary. If Mrs. Clinton happens to win the Democratic nomination for president, I will vote for the Republican candidate (if it is John McCain) or write in Barack in the general election.

The Clinton team has turned off so many former supporters with their attitude that somehow they are "owed" this presidency, I have a feeling that Mrs. Clinton will not be our next president even if she wins the primaries.

I wonder if the Clintons know how many bridges they have burned with their strategy to take Obama out.

Why isn't the media reporting on Bush's plan to cut a deal with Iraq without consulting Congress? Very disturbing. I thank Hillary for bringing it up now in two debates.

Sadly, the media wants to concentrate on sound bites and race. I like all three, but mainly Clinton and Obama.

Clinton is the strongest of them all. She can handle the Republicans, but I really think they will clean Obama's clock if he is the nominee.

Hillary for 8 years and then Obama for 8 years. Perfect.

Can the Hillary haters just relax.

I'm so tired of both Hilary and Obama.

When is the media going to really cover John Edwards?

Edwards, gets my vote.

We should vote to take Edwards off the stage and let Hillary and Obama debate it out in a Pentagon cage – no moderator also. Then put it out on Pay-per-view. This is what politics should be. Go Obama! Go Hillary!

As a woman I despise Hillary. I would never vote for her.She comes off as being arrogant and nasty .I used to like her husband and now I can't stand neither one of them. If she's supposed to be this strong independent woman Why does she need her husband to help her fight her battles. Obama doesn't fight dirty like the Clintonsand john Edwards, I don't understand why he's still in this game.

We should vote to take Edwards off the stage and let Hillary and Obama debate it out in a Pentagon – no moderator also. Then put it out on Pay-per-view. This is what politics should be. This is what cable TV wishes to be.

We should vote to take Edwards off the stage and let Hillary and Obama debate it out in a Pentagon – no moderator also. This is what politics should be. It reminded me of JFK and Nixon.

Please post my comments. They are good and I don't curse as so many have. I'm so tired of Republicans in sheep's clothing acting as though Hillary and Bill are both running. Wrong! Hillary can handle herself. Leave Bill out of it, and BTW, it was a Republican Congress and countless battles with Kenneth Lay that Bill had to fight…..all the while leaving us a country that is sane compared with this one lil Bush is leaving to us. We need a strong leader. Anyone who can debate and fight for positions is a good candidate. I'm for Hillary after seeing Barack not be able to give specifics about anything. Edwards would be good also, although I'm not sure anyone can take Rove's and Rollin's underhanded moves. Come on folks. Get your facts straight. Hillary sure is. So is Edwards. Many of those posted are downright wrong and have Bill Clinton as the "devil". He did and tried to do so many good things…but Congress and Ken Lay wouldn't let him. He did leave lil Bush with a huge and record setting surplus, which lil Bush then spent on he and his pals within months. While you're watching things that might matter, watch "Cheney's War" on Frontline and see how things really are. It's the oil that causes us to bring home dead and wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. Don't you realize that. That's why the little dance and kingly treatment by the Saudis who are gettting the oil pumped right to their door.

Is it just me or am I to believe that in a country of 300 million people that the best choice for President of the United States for an entire generation can only come from 2 families Bushes or Clintons? Looks a lot like hollywood with the children of stars becoming the new stars. So we do 4 years of George H W Bush, 8 years of Bill Clinton, 8 years of George W Bush and now we may have Hillary Clinton for 4 or 8 years. Who is next in line Jeb Bush? Chelsea Clinton will be old enough after that I suppose. Come on people open your eyes and minds find the candidate that will represent the people not one that will get what is there for them and theirs.

The debate was great TV spectacle. However, there were a few things that stood out from watching it.

The first question addressed to Clinton was addressed very straightfowardly and without any reference to her rivals.

Obama responded to every question with a zinger or two directly pointed to Clinton and her husband.

Edwards kept the sanity by acting as referree and actually correcting some false facts raised by Obama.

The questions asked of the candidates were somewhat biased in my opinion and it seemed Obama got more airtime than the other two candidates.

Obama's response to the issue of his reference to Reagan and the Republican Party's record as well as his minimizing of Bill Clinton's record was a spin, check the tapes.

Voters beware! America is in deep dudu and needs the most qualified individual to lead the country.

Hillary is not a self-made person! Be realistic. If she wasn't married to Bill she would *never* be in this election.

Both Obama and Edwards *are* there because they earned it.

America, please do what's right!

I listened to the dems tonight, more of the same, bloated government,more government programs we can't afford. The repub'licans are warmongering big business. the people need to wake up we need to get out of iraq, it is a war for profit for KBR Haliburton on the no bid cost over contracts, Our soldiers are living in molding tents, being served spoiled food, and dirty water and chenny finestein and others in washington continue to make a buck.Private contracors making ahundred thousand drive around in hummers and esclades yet our politicans continue to fund it over and over again. Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again with the same results albert einstein. I say none of the above. i'm voting for ron paul

Americans are so fickle! They go where the wind blows. It was all Hillary then Obama now its Edwards. Geesh we have no backbone and the Starbucks coffee (too much sugar in it)

Stand for something, stand for united and by all means that is not Edwards.

I like Obama, but he needs more seasoning. I'm voting for Hilliary this time around. Hey, we've had all men presidents since the beginning of time and a great majority of them, especially both Bushes (Dumb & Dumber (the son of course) have screwed up our country so bad that why not give a women a chance to see what she can do, I mean no one, not even me, could mess things up like the present idiot has done. He's got the eye-Q of a cow. I'd like to see a Clinton/Edwards ticket. Works 4 me.

Say what you want about any of the democratic candidates presently still in the race for the Presidency. All are qualified to one degree or another. This is not the first debate nor will it be the last. I would never decide what candidate I might vote for based on one debate. I am following them ALL as well as reading what their actual records are regarding their attendance at congressional meetings, how they voted, what legislation they might have sponsored and whether it passed and if not, why not, etc. No matter what anyone FEELS or THINKS about Bill Clinton's Presidency, he was 1000 % better than Bush and many of the previous administrations. What spouse of ANY candidate in either party would be more effective than Bill Clinton? His experience, skills and abilities to assist any president, even if it is his wife, would be invaluable. I think Michelle Obama is smart and savvy enough to do so, but could not with 2 small children and lack of experience at this time. Also, say what you want about either of the Clintons, but what couple (married to each other) has been more dedicated to this country through an adult lifetime of work in the political arena. (Which is the best and ONLY way to TRY to make a difference in attempting to keep the United States a true Democracy for the citizens of a country based on their FREEDOMS. They have both dedicated their entire lives to doing what they can to make this country strong and present it to the world as such. They also raised a very confident, poised and intelligent daughter whom they greatly love as well as managed to keep her out of the limelight and live these young years of her life as normally as possible.

That said, I sitll haven't made up my mind about who I will be voting for when election time comes and I know what candidates I have the choice for doing so. What I AM doing right now, is listening to all debates, both republican and democratic so I will at least be as informed as I can be to make the most informed choice I can.

The bottom line is that all three of these candidates are highly capable, and each would make a very effective President. They stand head and shoulders over the Republican candidates. I would gladly vote for any one of them in the general election.

Where was Dennis Kucinich? I don't like the corporate media picking my candidates, thank you very much.

These Democrats should be saying something.

I can't understand you stupid Americans. You have a candidate who wants to get rid of the Federal Income Tax, IRS and Federal Reserve, End the War, and follow your Constitution and yet you elect leaders who just want to run your lives and make you a slave even more than you already are. "In the land of the blind, the one eyed man is king." America, the land of "Sheeple."

Hillary wins this one. Barack needs to grow up. Every time someone says something about one of his votes, instead of responding, he just accuses the questioner of being divisive.

Seriously Obama. If you can't stand to be questioned by other democrats, how can any democrat in their right mind want to vote to put you in an election against a republican?

Hillary has shown that she can take the fire, and throw it right back. This is what we need to take back the white house!

How could we put another Clinton in the White House after what happened last time? Not to mention the only reason Hillary stayed with Bill is for more power in politics. What will she do with our country? Obama '08! 'Nuff said

Will someone with the vision and outlook of Barack Obama succeed in accomplishing his vision if he has an experienced "Dick Cheney" for a vice-president who helps him with running the day to day bureaucracy of the Presidency?

obama you are being revealed. you are smoke and mirrors.
wolf blitzer is male biased and he was so worried about obama defended himself. no half as worried for hillery. its sad john edwars decided to run now.
he is going to make a great vice president for president hillary

CLINTONS DIRTY LIES were easliy squashed with OBAMA'S TRUTH.

Imagine what this debate would have been like without John Edwards. It would have been only a nasty back-and-forth between Clinton and Obama. It makes you wish he could carry on with his campaign just so he could take part in any remaining debates. He was really smooth in this one. "Smart, Edwards is smart" is what I came away saying. It doesn't mean I'm voting for him, but I was impressed.

When are the Candidates going to tell us what they can do for our country–rather than spending all the time bashing each other. Also– a little more about we–(on Hillary's part)–instead of I, I , I . Is it really a Government for the People or a People for the Government?

As far as the debate goes, " go Barak" I felt it was time to stand up to the Clinton Machine and He did just that.

I further believe Barak said it best in the debate when he said to Hillary "i don't know if I'm running against u or your husband sometimes." It just goes to show that just because Hillary was first lady doesn't make her more experience than Barak. lets not forget this is the same lady who wasplanning dinner aprties in the white house just about nine years ago. I have no doubt thats she could be a great [resident but not right now for this country. because there shouldnt be this dynasty between the Clintons and the Bushes. What type of message does that sendto the world, whe we are trying to show total change. i think we need to rethink the definition of change and what it means to us, and I'm sure it doesn't hae the Bushes and the Clintons.

Obama is a whiner, and an macho, egotistical bully. He certainly is NO gentelman and does not represent what our country is made of!

I got the impression from watching the debate tonight that, and I say this in all earnestness, the candidates don't have psychological, or psychoeducational support staff. The defensiveness and divisive speech acts we witnessed tonight, quite possibly brought on by stress and fatigue, are manifestations of serious developmental delay, reflect deeply-rooted weakness, and perpetuates violence.
One way to understand and therefore, embody peace and change even in hard time is to orient oneself with gender (gender is the basis of Freud and Jung's structure and dynamic of the psyche). Androgyny, is the balanced embodiment and representation of masculine and feminine attitudes and values (i.e. gender equality), and among other things, reveals itself in nondefensive, unifying language, action and being. Contrary to the linguistic trend from the demographic "sex" to "gender," gender's not what's between the legs, it's what's between the ears. All this to say, the bickering's a real bummer because it inhibits any deeper discussion from taking place. If even one of the candidates was trained in conflict res., not only would the conversation be a lot more interesting, i'm fairly certain that that candidate would prevail in both the short and long term. The conflict among the candidates not only compromises their own integrity, but the integrity of the issues at hand, and the security and well being of the American people. And while it may not be fair to point fingers at Hillary for being so divisive, it's just more glaring coming from a woman and mother. On the positive side, it was uplifting to hear John’s motivation around ethics, equality and assisting the poor and similarly, Barack’s relational stance on Homeland Security. Having said that, I wonder what Barack will determine as the "right thing to do" with this troubling dynamic.

Regarding electability, despite running for president in 2004 and 2008, Edwards has NEVER won a primary in any state. When he was on the presidential ticket in 2004, he didn't even carry his own home state of North Carolina. How, then, could he possibly beat the Republicans in the fall? His running mate, John Kerry, endorsed Obama. That says a lot right there. On every issue, Edwards boils it down to fighting corporate America, which virtually controls our government. In order to get anything done, he will have to work with a Congress that takes money from major corporations. How does he expect to get anything done with the attitude of "it's me against the world"? Politics is about compromising and Edwards is too rigid to make a good president.

Regarding Hillary's proposal for universal health care, it may sound good in theory. But, again, Hillary is too rigid in her stance to get anything done. She's basically drawn a line in the sand and said it's universal health care or nothing. The Republicans are not going to support universal health care because it goes against everything they believe in. Therefore, if elected (a remote possibility because of her high negatives), Hillary will be the most ineffective president we've ever had. It will be just like her health care fiasco during Bill Clinton's first term — she'll go for the whole enchilada and end up with nothing.

Obama's plan is much more reasonable and more likely to be passed. He has already demonstrated he can work across the aisle to get things done. Remember: It takes both parties to get legislation approved.

Finally, if one takes notice, nearly all of the Senators and Congressmen who have endorsed a candidate in the past month have endorsed Obama. These are people who have worked with Hillary and Bill, but they are endorsing Obama. That speaks volumes.

I think it is sad when an ex-president can draw so much attention and he isn't even in the debates! Obama is fighting two clintons and a southerner. Question? Does it seem foul that her husband cheated on her numerous times and she just stood by and supported him like he wasn't wrong. She just looked the other way/ do we need someone like that in office, turning the other way even when things are wrong….

We're at yet another critical turning point in U.S history. Somebody help me make up my mind. These are the Democratic candidates as I see them.

Hillary
Advantages
-Dot Com Boom v.2.0. My mind and wallet like this candidate.
-Has the bulk of the traditional Democrat party machinery behind her?
-Has visited Iraq and has more experience than Obama…but so did Bill Richardson.
-Husband Bill could potentially talk some sense and experience to her every evening. Smoother operation.
-The best candidate…if Obama wasn't running.
-First female President.
-She's studied, proficient and able at playing the political games of the past 15 years.
-Seems safe like Clinton v.2.0. It would be awful if the "safe" candidate didn't pan out.

Disadvantages
-She may do to the Republicans what the Republicans have done to the Democrats for the past 7 years.
-Hazy about what her opponent said or is it just more "Political Spin?"
-4-8 more years of: rich vs poor; big vs small/weak; greedy corporates and lobbyists—forgiven in exchange for the dot com boom. Political Spin.

Obama
Advantages
-My heart says this candidate is right but my mind isn't sure about his lack of experience.
-Clear and competent in thought and communication more than any other candidate in recent U.S history.
-Fully answers questions without political spin or irrational religious argument.
-It's about "We" ( U.S.A and maybe the world ).
-Surprising command of the prevailing contemporary issues down to the details.
-No sleazy politics or mudslinging or the famous "Political Spin" of the past 15 years; focuses on his selling his vision for our future.
-Inspires and Unites.
-Not beholden to lobbyists…yet.
-Presidential and statesmanly (except for a squabble with Hillary).
-He's Christian, Black, White, Hawaiian, was poor, ivy league graduate, married to ivy league graduate, lived in Asia, has a deceased Muslim father; Seems likely to make himself understood and liked by more people.
-Worldwide appeal and understanding (Germany and Kenya so far) may help with Iraq withdrawal and world solidarity against violence and terrorism.
-Chose public service over money. Mr Harvard and Lady Princeton could've had themselves a very comfortable life in the private sector.
-After 15 years of "POLITICAL SPIN" and "Religious warfare" (Taliban vs Evangelicals) can the world take 4 more years of the same or will it result in the long-term decline of the U.S?
-Earnest and well-reasoned answers not Political spin or religious rhetoric .
-Earnest candidate with the potential for real change before he drowns in D.C politics.
-Is aware and educated about the most important issues of our day.
-Has support of educated Democrats, Independents…and even some Republicans.
-Race issue didn't enter his campaign until the Clintons dragged it in. He didn't retaliate with a gender issue.
-When the going gets tough, Obama gets going….but he seemed to disappear after Iowa?

Disadvantages
His lack of a long, distinguished record. He's a roll of the dice. He could become the greatest U.S president and World leader or the loneliest guy in the White House.
He's not experienced but is he better than our "experience" of the past 15 years?
He's right about what he wants but how effective will he be in achieving?
He may achieve unprecedented economic growth across a fuller spectrum of new industries or the "nice guy" might get us lost in the Carter years.

Edwards
Good man who deserves a place at the podium.
He right about corporate greed, a nation run by lobbyists but does it mean that we will have the Jimmy Carter years for our economy? Is he protectionist? Will President Edwards be accomplishing anything else besides "cabinet official against corporate greed." Unable to distinguish himself as a "full-spectrum" Presidential candidate.

Obama is nothing but a demagogue.. ppl feel he is likeable and gives ppl a message of hope.. lets not forget that Dubya Bush also somehow used his "nice guy" persona to fool the american ppl and win the election.
Obama is selfish and his hundreds of "present" votes indicate that he will do or say anything to get elected. He has no track record to stand on in my opinion.

I felt he attacks Hillary every chance he gets.. its just that ppl are ok with him attacking her, but when she retorts, ppl have violent reactions to her.. its just plain and simple sexism that is at play here.

Plus, if Obama was dark skinned, do you think he'd be so widely accepted by white voters?

This is the most embarrasing display of bickering i've ever seen. these people need to take a debate class; they have no regard for topic or point. it's all "he said, she said." hillary is the worst on this issue, closely followed by barrack, and yet john edwards doesn't only bring this to point for the viewers, but answers the questions on topic. it also seems apparent that hillary is incapable of "spelling out" just exactly how she plans to accomplish her campaign goals. she is good at saying what her campaign goals are though, she says "i want to bring the troops home," and then says "and here's why." at this point i'd say the HOW outweighs the obvious answers of WHY we should bring our troops home. this is just my opinion but it seemed that john edwards spelled out pretty much everything in simple english. what the goals of his campaign are, how he will fund the goals of his campaign, and did so with dignity and heart. if he doesn't win the democratic nominee, and this debate, it is because those who cast their ballots haven't the capability to see these charaders as they truly are.

Re: Comments from "Cassie"

Were you watching the same debate as the rest of U.S.? When you said that,
"Obama had no choice but to defend himself from Hillary's unwarranted attacks." did you even realize who started the attacks? The very first slash was made by, Sen. Obama and not by Sen. Clinton and if you did not catch that you should re-watch the debate again. I am sure he did this to deflect the debate away from the main issues, however. I would too if I had a weak platform on all the issues.

Sen. Obama was not strong on issues once as usual, but BIG on rhetoric once again. Clearly, both Edwards Clinton were both at least able to address the issues that this debate was intended to bring forth.

What is really ironic is that Obama stammered & stuttered on several occasions clearly looking when challenged directly about the issues, including the economy and health-care. Obama clearly was reeling trying to defend his miserable and irresponsible voting record in Illinois. In addition, he was really not able to fool anyone with regard to his inference to the Reagan presidency. Although, he clearly is back-pedaling and trying to downplay his statements. Really does not matter how he spins it, people are finally getting to see what he is all about, great speeches, NO SUBSTANCE!

Go Hillary!!! Nobama in '08

I was proud to hear one canidate be honest about one thing! All politicians have dirt on their hands. When Mr. Obama made that statement it remined me why I support him. We need an honest canidate in the White House. It is going to be tough for Obama because he is so honest about several issues that most potiticians don't like and will never admit. I think he brings the most hope to America that truely needs to come together in a time where we as a country have become so divided. I hope and pray that he can unify the country and not let other pull him down to govern liek most politicians have. I like Hillary, but I think at this critical time, the republicians will pull out every trick to prevent the Clintons from getting back in office and it may only divide our country more. Please consider the hope for change that is realy needed in Washington. GO OBAMA!!!!

Gees, you'd think we were running for pre-school game leader….What the heck? After seeing the British Parliament in action and knowing what debates used to be like in the U.S., it is very refreshing to have some action and passion for a change. Do we really want pablum and nicey-nice politics when things for the US are so critical?? I enjoyed every minute of the gloves-off debate, and now can't wait for another. I think it not only shows off the art of debate along with a person's willingness and "persuasion" skills, but also their intellect and art of defending their position. After all, isn't that what the art of "debate" is about? One's character and ability to fight (usually Congressmen and lobbyists) as President says a lot about the REAL people we might elect.

Good grief! People kill one another over power in other countries, we watch violence up the ying-yang on TV for gratification, cops and criminals duking it out if not shooting one another, and most movies have more than enough violence….and our politicians can't say what they really think or feel? I would much rather watch a spririted debate where people are people, not automatons…..which will show me who's up to the daily bombardment of a President and Administration who has to fight for anything really worth while. I can't believe how hypocritical people are. We even like our churches filled with people fainting, preachers howling or crying, and yet our possible highest office candidates can't show their expertise at playing hard politics, even though this is hardly the battles they usually go through.

Come on voters. Do you want covert actions and dirty unconstitutional deeds behind closed doors, costing us trillions of dollars (a la Reagan, Bush, and lil Bush and Cheney) or do you want it all on the table? I'll take the table please, with comments that are witty, truthful, and hard-hitting if not under the belt too far. Do we have to pretend to agree with policies that are not our own for the sake of "pretending civility"? Get real. Listen with your head and heart and vote for who can give and take the punches. This is not a bedtime story, nor your Sunday School teacher's version of Democracy in action. Think about history. It's not nice. If it were, it wouldn't be in the history books or in anyone's treatise. More debates please. Now, if only the Republicans would say it like THEY mean it! I don't think they do.

Obama is the man! I just love him. Good job on putting Hillary in her place today! She had it coming to her.

Hey Wolf, why dont you ask each of them whether if president they would issue a formal apology to Iraq for attacking and completely ruining a sovereign nation… millions of iraqi children killed, or left orphans.. its not just the lives of american troops which count.. what about the poor defenseless Iraqis who had nothing to do with 9-11 or Osama (remember him?)
These Dems sound more like Republicans to me…
Also, why isnt anyone talking about the Economy and the fact that my Charmin toilet paper is worth more than the tanking dollar… Its the Economy Stupid!!

I'm glad Obama is finally standing up. Tired of the same rhetorical speeches from the Clintons. Hillary speaks of change, but wants to send her family back to the White House, the same one they disgraced. She speaks of family value, but runs for the Presidency; and uses her husband to try and get her there. Hillary speaks about Bush and his rich friends running the nation, yet she one of them.

When I think of change, I mean a real change.

We sit around talking about change, but when it's delivered to us (Obama/Edwards) we aren't willing to accept it.

I'm really tired of seeing Hillary when she wins and then more so when she loses. I think it's pretty obvious that her friends up high (Rich people who own publishing houses) are making sure she gets 100% coverage at all time.

We speak of change, but in reality we want the same victim-volunterism so we can cry about it all over again for the next Presidential election.

If you truly want change – the Clintons are not the answer. They need to focus on their family values, not monetary values.

The Clintons will only prove to be more divisive. Obama is the only one who can bring us all together.

I listened to Edwards talk about how he and Senator Clinton both had "Universal" health plans. He pushed a point that Obama didn't include illegal aliens that are in the United States. Edwards made it clear that he and Clinton both included the mexican citizens that are currently living in the United States because they have "universal" plans.
I would like to know if Edwards and Clinton are also including Mexican citizens that are currently living in Mexico as well? What about countries overseas as well? I'm positive that they don't intend to do that because it wouldn't make sense.
If they're wanting to include mexican citizens inside the U.S., then why not the Mexican citizens currently living in Mexico?
If you think about it, what's the diffference? They're ALL mexican citizens, whether they're currently living in the U.S. or Mexico.
Obama is right-on when he doesn't include them. I'm a U.S. citizen and I can assure you that I never intend on sending my income to Mexico for their healthcare.. especially when I can barely afford my own for my family.
I hadn't quite made up my mind until tonight. I'm keeping an open mind until all is said and done just before the elections, but I can tell you that now I know almost for certain who my vote belongs to.

HRC is a fraud and a disgrace to all that can be called honest, true, and genuine. Sure Bill is not present. But he is intimately related to her campain. Why else does she have him running around slinging mud on her behlaf?

Sen. Clinton made took 3 or 4 punches at Barack's past votes, and I thought they were mischaracterizations of his real position. Someone of the intelligence of Sen. Clinton should know that in Illinois, voting "present" generally means you might support the IDEA behind the bill, but that not all the PROVISIONS in that specific bill are good enough.

The founding fathers meant for there to be a big debate of facts and ideas to show what candidates were really about. Without this kind of debate, no one actually knows what anybody is really about. Hillary got down to the facts and Obama did what he usually does, rambles. Edwards looked and sounded good as well, but Hillary is clearly the most intelligent and the most capable candidate.
Obama just can't handle any kind of conflict. He will never be able to handle the office of President of the U.S. because no one will care whether he is black, and he will be pummelled with questions and he will be forced to be accountable to the people and the people will tear him apart. The media will destroy him. His words are feel good, but in substance, he's a lightweight. He would work best in a non confrontational situation.

This is what politics is all about!, the merging of ideas into substance. Obama speaks emotions and acedemic idealism without taking firm position on issues. The press is giving him too much pass without assessing his viability with tough questions. He is selling to the people "fast food politics" wrapped beautifully with the slogan for change. He is feeding on the fact that the war in Iraq is very unpopular, especailly with over 80% of the democratic base against it, but really, he does not stake his hands out for people to really know his position and true identity. If you agree or disagree on issues, vote on it (example on the Iranian National guard issue). Nobody should play politics with the National security of this country. What the country and the world needs now is balance. A courageous and balanced approach to issues. That is the real change we need now and not to take us from the extreme right to the extreme left.

This debate proved one thing, none of the dems with the exception of Edwards is capable of running this country.

MCCAIN IN 08!

Whoever thinks Obama won this debate didn't pay attention. Edwards and Clinton knocked him on his butt. He looked so green and he was horrible tonight.

Obama – Can give a great message but FUMBLES when it comes to specifics.
Hillary – Very strong on specifics but LESS inspiring
Edward – Has little bit of specifics and message but not enough.

I would go with HILLARY..

Tonight I changed my vote from Clinton to Edwards. This petty fighting between the Clintons and Obama have left me disgusted with both sides.

This Democrat may be stuck voting for McCain…or not voting at all.

the fact the Obama can Unite the Country as One People is enough for me. What many people do not understand about government is a President alone can not change a country, and the Clintons have been Divisionist within party lines and can not cross those lines o find common ground. Obama has crossed the lines of seperation that bring the US together and also make the congress and senate work together. Without a working government, We just have a government, When we are United as one people we have a working country pushing the working government for us. Without us pushing them to stay on track we have a Divided government and facism divisionist such as Hillary Clinton takes over and becomes controlling. The controlling party then uses the people to pander to keeping us divided like Hillary has forcing the rest of us to fall line, also panders to the voters on promises that have really hurt this country. NAFTA was created for WALMART that HILLARY supports as she lies to the country to pay big business back. NAFTA was created on BILL Clintons Watch in 1993,1994. This has launched the US into were we are today. The Clintons will lie and pander to whatever a voter wants to here thin twist the knife in your back when they get into office. Obama/Edwards is the Presidential Electable ticket, and the Clintons are hasbeens that has used us once to many times to get votes. Stand up for reality, the e reality is that we all have had enough of the divisionist that exampes the Clintons and a True changing of the Gaurd is a Fresh and New look into our government.If the Clintons really believed in the Black votes, they would endorse Obama, instead of using Obama to strike into a race debate, the Clintons are "closet racists". Don't forget that Hillary "RodeHim" Clinton has "Bobed" Johnson to pander Dr. Butts as Hillary "RodeHim" Clinton into using them for their vote whil Bill was with Lewdinski watching as Hillary "RodeHim" both to get the vote.

Tonight's performance only reinforces my support for Obama. Hillary Clinton voted for the Iraq war and then voted for the possibility of war with Iran. She's learned nothing. Her political tactics of divide and slap around are the politics of Republicans. The experience she keeps referring to (where it exists at all) is the experience of failing to bring us any change in health care in all the years she's 'worked on it'. Edwards has probably missed his train. Hillary's train is in sad need of repair and refuses to stay on the tracks. Obama's train is leaving the station now, but not before asking all of us to jump on board.

Obama needs to stop provoking her and shut up and say what kind of experience he has that would benefit our coutnry. It is not the time to be having a "fight" to try to make himself look good. He wants CHANGE well we all do but whey doesn't he say what change hi will bring and how? It's not just about talking and looking good up there, it's about getting things done. This time it's going to take a Woman to do that. GO HILLARY! WE GOT YOUR BACK! AND YOU HAVE OUR VOTE!

I was appalled to listen to the very petty and snippy agruments of Senators Clinton and Obama. It certainly portrayed them as anything but presidential. I was ready to turn off the TV!!

Obama emphasized that his dealing with Rezko was mearly 5 hours at a law firm but Rezko provided tens of thousands of dollars to his campaign chest and even sold Obama some property at a 'discount'. He should really be more candid about his record. If we got over his drug use, we will get over his political errors.

Seriously — how can ANYONE not think that Edwards is the right person to be president?

If you think Edwards is the better choice, VOTE FOR HIM! Don't vote for either of the two clowns running against him because the media thinks they are more electable.

Think about this — the media has been giving us big doses of Hillary and Obama for a full year already, while they keep leaving Edwards in the shadows. And yet, he's still up there on that stage, giving it everything he's got.

Edwards is the only democrat still in this race who is worth voting for.

Why should we cover illegal immigrants, what part of illegal do people not understand. Spend that money and send them all back. Reform welfare and get the people off of it who use it as a legacy to their children and those who lie to get it. That would save millions of dollars.

Obama sure didn't look presidential tonight. He really got a free pass with the audience since it was put on by the black caucus. I wish people would be objective about who won the debate. I can't possible see how anyone thought Obama did the best,

I am a Democrat who knows this much: The Clintons have become pros at distorting the facts to their advantage – they have had so much practice. Don't you all remember Bill's famous line in a legal deposition: "That depends what the meaning of the word "is" is."

That is EXACTLY what Barack is fighting against- old school manipulation and distortion politics. He must fight and not lie down. Please people, wake up. Do we need more 8 years of this ?

Barack went from a disadvantaged, mixed race background, to Columbia University, to the streets of Chicago, to Harvard Law school, and then back to Chicago to help with civil rights. That is what we need right now – someone who puts service above thirst for power – not the other way around.

I think it's just nice to see more proof that all politicians are the same: Democrat or Republican; man or woman; black or white; rich or superrich; they are all just bickering little children fighting for their faviorate toy.

Does anyone else think that being a first lady in Arkansas and the United States is not quite personal political experience? I mean my father has a chemical engineer for forty years and I am pretty sure that does not qualify my mother to run a laboratory. I know she's been senator for a few years, but I am not buying the whole experience card from her.

Obama started the attacks not Hillary, I have never liked John Edwards but I must agree that he was clearly the most levelheaded one tonight and he did not get equal time.

I am so sick of the Clinton's, if she get's the nomination I will switch parties and vote Republican.

Congratulations John Edwards. I really appreciated how Mr. John Edwards stayed focused and answered the questions. John Edwards should be the next President of the United States. John Edwards wants to help the poor and he does not take money from lobbyists of corporations. Clinton and Obama are not even in touch of how the American people feel. If Clinton and Obama want to fight then I suggest they both go to Iraq and use their energy side by side with our American Troops. Make sure you all watch John Edwards on David Letterman on Tuesday night. Vote for Edwards. If you vote for Obama or Clinton you are wasting your vote and this economy will not improve at all and corporate CEOs will make wages lower and inflation will get higher. Vote for John Edwards. Go Johnny !!!!

Hillary is just a drama queen. She wasn't strong enough to leave her husband after he cheated on her but she can handle a country?

I have seen John Edwards speak in person and he is by far the best candidate. He speaks from the heart, tells the truth, and I believe will fight for the lower and middle class. I just hope that Americans watched the debate and will realize how he smart he is and how he is for everyday Americans like me. Go Ewards!

Jennifer/ Illinois

Mr. Bill Clinton has the right to defend his wife Mrs. hillary . Mr.Edward an Mr. Obama both of their wife first attack Mrs Hillary when she started with a big lead. Mr. Obama just dosen't like when the truht comes out .

Yeah, Go Hillary – With 100% of Republicans and those 40% of Democrats who would rather vote for "nobody" – they've got 08 bagged. I'd vote for the insane warmonger Huckabee before I voted for Hillary.

I'm a Democrat who wants a Democrat in office, not a Republican. I don't really care which one is elected. Any of them would have a lot of scrutiny from the press if elected to the Presidency, and I would hope would surround themselves with people who would help unify the country and get things accomplished to bring us up out of the mess we are in today. I wish the arguing would stop and the issues would be discussed. I have no problem with candidates pointing out the differences on issues between each other, but stick to the issues. Don't get your feelings hurt, because the Republicans will be much harsher.

Don't all of you realize that this is just what the Republicans want us to do, so that they can win? Everytime one of you say that you will not vote for the other candidate it only helps them. I imagine they're laughing their heads off behind closed doors. I don't want a Republican or Bloomburg, who was once a Democrat, then a Republican, and now maybe an Independent.

The news organizations hate the Clintons so much they have they stirred the pot to cause problems, and we believe everything they say on the news with it being repeated over and over 24 hours a day. Yes, Bill does need to tone it down some and let her stand on her own. Think about the kind of questions they were asked tonight and how they let it go on and on with some of them. Really, were these the kind of questions that we wanted to know about, or were they the kind they knew would ignite the flames because of the atmosphere? Don't think it wasn't calculated on their part. They knew exactly what they were doing when they didn't stop them. Also, notice how they began by having them stand-up for the beginning. The last time (Nevada) they were seated and it went smoother, which it generally does, not matter which party it is that is debating. Everything is done for ratings, not to help the political process!

Stop the bickering so we can win in November. Anyone would be better than a Republican again!!!!!

Is anyone else tired of everything being turned into a race issue? There are quite a few white people in debt and vulnerable to adjustable rate mortgages and payday loans. Race is not the reason, don't buy what you can't afford and go to work to get what you want.

"tim
January 21, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Everything that comes out of Obamas mouth is crap. It all sounds empty and panders the majority of time to black americans."

Are you serious? You can't be serious… As Black American (I'm Multi-Racial, hence the term BLACK rather than African-American)… I have yet to hear anything come out of Sen. Obama's mouth that's been geared to one group of American's over another… I don't know what channel you've been watching/ listening to, however, it would behoove you tune into the channel(s) that the rest of the Nation is on…

HillBill are all about themselves… they will say whatever they think is necessary to win… and its not because they have the welfare of the nation on their mind… because if they did, they would have stuck to their script instead of flipping it to this dirt slinging mess they've kicked up after Sen Obama won Iowa…

Go Obama/ Edwards for President '08….
Go HillBill… He he he… Just Go Away Already!!!

John Edwards was given the debate gold tonight. Clinton and Obama really need to focus, not who their opposing candidate is, but who their real enemy is…the 2008 GOP candidate. There so little time in a 2 hour, nationally televised debate, to turn it into a political SuperBowl. I think that can best be done on the road, and the highlights will have just as much impact on the national cable news airwaves, as the jabs tonight will.

In honor of Dr. King, Senator Obama: passive resistance. I believe it could work far better for your campaign, than say, resorting to NFL defense tactics. We voters have more insight than you may be giving us credit for. We'll take care of them. (I did love the "Well, I can't tell who I'm running against sometimes.", referring to the Bill Clinton 2008 campaign.)

As for Senator Clinton's stellar brazillions of years of a fighter for truth, justice and the American way, lol…I don't know what she did as the 1st Lady of Arkansas. Her first efforts at universal healthcare failed. She said you're naive, thinking of bringing enemy States to the talking table, to bring about possible resolve in the Middle East, yet her experience history shows she kept HIM, again and again and again. The American electorate knows they don't want 8 more years of either/both of them. I really like John and Elizabeth Edwards, and Michelle and…

You Rock, Barack!

Whatever happened to Obama's pledge to unite by not playing into the usual political battles and fingerpointing? Did you see him tonight? Ha! Nice one Mr. Hypocrite!!!

Go John Edwards!!!

Politics in America is often so degrading and the people are speaking!!…what are they saying!??
“We want to be lied to! We want to use baseless arguments to support ‘experienced’ politicians who have earned their ‘experience’ by licking dirt off the feet of corporate interests! We want someone who we can pretend is going to change something but will really just be a novelty!” Someone please look at the big picture for once! Step back, see what was said today, see what was said yesterday and see what was said years ago… then finally, see it all at once! That’s all I ask…see it all at once and it will be easy to see why Obama is the only chance for a fresh start this country has.
Every time we take a comment from a candidate that was said today at face value, while forgetting what was said in the past, we slip farther and farther away from ever having good leadership. I guess we fear good leadership in America though, I suppose we truly want someone we can make fun of, someone we can feel somewhat smarter or more ethical than. Bush's terms make sense to me now…it all makes sense…..wait but now i'm depressed

It was nice to see Mrs. Clinton defending her stances without her husband (whom before his Obama tirades I actually had some respect for) for a change, but honest guys who don't need dirty tactics are what I am about…Go Edwards and Obama

These 3 people believe in only one thing: they should president. Other than that, they are the same old slime balls.

The Democrats should have the courage to run someone like Kucinich who believes what he is saying and says what Democrats are believing. How they nominated a pro-war guy when every democrat I knew was against it is beyond me.

Of these three, I can't see how garden variety liberals wouldn't be voting for Edwards other than the guilt of voting for a white male.

I am a female and I am 75 yrs.young. I loved the debates tonight.
i am a Hillary fan .This lady is right for this job as she will ever be.
I have had a number of presidents come and go.Each time I hear the same thing from the runners.I am just one person.Worked all my life.Raised five sons. married my hubby 51 yrs ago. He had three sons and I had two sons. We raised those boys and am proud of them. Three of them were in the Viet Nam war.One of the three served twenty one and a half years in the Navy.i can understand families when they say bring our sons and daughters back. This is a war we should bot be proud of. It was and is wrong from the get go.
I said the runners all have the same thing to say when they are running.It is because this is what we all want to hear. There has been some presidents give their all and even today we are sharing in the things they fixed. I hate to think what it would have been like if we did not have Social security .If we did not have Welfare for thier famils. My husband and i have had Mom and Pop grocery stores .They were in the Black neighborhoods. We had met and loved many a person. Am still loved and am friends with a lot pf those folks ,those precious folks. We carried many a family on credit one month top the next and they paid each time. We were glad we could do the credit and they were happy for it.
What else can i say, well it would be a great book. They worked hard and long for what little they made. their are no words that can describe they way it was for them. I am so pleased to hear and read something that will help them . Unless you have lived aroung the neighborhoods and went to their homes, and cried when someone died,Words can't describe.
I have gone on too long,but their is not enough room here to tell .
Hilliry will do her level best for folks .She is a strong woman.She is a very smart lady . We need her as our president. I like Barack,but he is not the man for us now. There is a war going on that Mr.Bush likes. he said one day "i am a war President"How sad. ,not for him but those who have lost their lives beliveing that it was for our country..
Enough said. Please forgive me for any mistakes in this letter. It is late and i am tired.Just want my 2cents to count. Love my Country and luv to you all who took the time to read.

While I thought John Edwards did quite well tonight, he had nothing to lose, so the pressure was off him. This was a high pressure night for Obama. He seemed a little nervous at first, but got his sea legs pretty quickly. I didn't care for the bickering between Obama and Clinton. But I do think Obama is being double teamed by Bill and Hillary. Bill needs to be muzzled. Obama needs to defend himself, but I wish it didn't have to be so acrimonious. This CA voter is voting for Obama!

Isn't it a shame. I think we have two great candidates for president. However, they are destroying each other. Think about it. If one of them won the nomination for president, they would make a great team as president and vice president, and I know with that ticket they could beat the republicans. However, the way they are going at each other they could never run together.

Edwards won! He presented himself on the issues he stands for in an articulate, passionate and, most importantly, honest manner. The other two appeared mired in ugly personal battles that showed that they're more interested in spin and mud slinging than beating the republicans and taking back the country. GO EDWARDS!!!!

Wow…Obama is an arrogant baby. He has no clear plans onthe issues he raves about. His voting record is highly suspect. Does anyone really know how he plans on healthcare reform? how he plans on dealing with the near recession? on anything? All he does is strut and mumble…Hillary in 08 all the way!!!! She has clear, concise plans on how to turn the country around.

Okay, one thing is Edwards needs to realize this isn't a 3 person race. His days are numbered. He sat there like a good little christian boy. Hillary seems like she is stuck up on her husbands tenure. Obama has nothing to hide. He is the most intellectual of the bunch. He's smart, charasmatic, and can take the heat. I think he'd do fine as president. Thats why they have cabinet members. Remember we are voting for a person who is going to lead us, not come up with the answers. His/her staff will come up with answers, and that person will decide if it's right nad move on it. Thats it.

I am a Hillary voter just to be up-front. I don't dislike Obama or Edwards, but I have seen Edwards looking more and more like an angry man. Maybe it's because the other two get all of the media time, but he just looks mad. Obama needs to realize that there are well-informed voters out here that need more than I can bring change speeches. I have researched his past voting records just like I do with any politician, he is not squeaky clean. Him and Edwards need to get off their holthier-than-thou pedalstals and get real. Because the lobbyist donate money does not mean they make decisions and I think Hillary is smart enough to make her own decisions based on the needs of the United States. All three of them need to calm down.

Obama and Edwards were both right that much was wasted on "squabble" of no consequence to Americans.

While it was much opportunity cost for Americans (lost time to discuss other items, turned offed more people), I'm glad to hear Barack Obama explain the various charges hurled against him including about his "present" votes in Illinois.

The debate was also a good reminder that just because H. Clinton wants what she says( like universal healthcare), the Clinton style of politics is too divisive to deliver a very complicated change. [ Additionally, it is too scary to think about Bill Clinton pinching in as de facto president whenever Hillary Clinton suffers a setback as president.]

Between an experienced poltician who deploys old fashion tactics and less experienced one who show authenticity, the latter will work better for the 21st century.

So Hillary Clinton will be a good US senator but not American president at this time.

Obama couldn't even answer the questions directed at him for trying to pick fights with Hillary! In my opinion he side stepped 85% of his questions because he was too busy trying to point out the bad things about his opponents in stead of focusing on his campaign and what he stands for! It definitely leads me in a different direction. I certainly don't think we need another president who is constantly looking for someone to blame for their short comings! I think John Edwards did a wonderful job for standing up for his beliefs and his campaign as well as Hillary for defending herself and her position.

It is insulting to black people… that Bill Clinton fell asleep in church celebrating ML Kings birthday, and the only real african-american holiday!!! GO Obama 2008

HILLARY CLINTON 2008 !!!!!!!!!
Its time for this country to put aside "surface" issues and stand up for everyone EQUALLY and UNBIASED. I believe Hillary has what it takes. Experience ,compassion and intelligence.
GO HILLARY!!!

Hillary is not the choice to win. I understand it doesn't take a brain to be president just look at our C average ass**** in office now. I want change and that comes with someone NEW not the same people with the same old BS. Go Obama!

Well Mike T., that was offensive.

First, here is what Sen. Barack Obama actually told the Reno Gazette-Journal editorial board on camera, comments that were highlighted at CNN’s debate in South Carolina on Jan. 21, 2008.

“I think Ronald Reagan changed the trajectory of America in a way that Richard Nixon did not and in a way that Bill Clinton did not. He put us on a fundamentally different path, because the country was ready for it. I think they felt like with all the excesses of the sixties and seventies and government had grown and grown, but there wasn’t much sense of accountability in terms of how it was operating.”

What “excesses” are Sen. Obama speaking of? The creation of Medicare? Of Medicaid? Of the Peace Corps? Of Head Start? The Civil Rights Act? The Voting Rights Act? Perhaps, the Food Stamp Act? The Cigarette Labeling Act? The Motor Vehicle Safety Act? Maybe he meant the Endangered Species Preservation Act or the Wilderness Act?

The country “was ready for” the path the Reagan administration took us? Ready for massive deregulation? For the union-busting? For no increase to the minimum wage for eights years? For saying that trees pollute the environment? For saying that the homeless are on the streets by choice?

Ready for the decimation of America’s steel industry? For huge tax cuts for the wealthy and Fortune 500 companies? For the most annual bank failures since the Great Depression? For the massive budget and trade deficits?

Ready for Robert Bork’s nomination to the Supreme Court? For putting Antonin Scalia on the Court? For elevating William Rehnquist to Chief Justice? For giving us Atty. Gen. Edwin Meese? For Interior Secretary James Watt? For proposing to eliminate the Education Department?

For arming and backing Saddam Hussein? For selling weapons to Iran? For an even greater dependence on foreign oil imports? For William Casey? For Adm. John Poindexter? For Lt. Col. Oliver North?

Sen. Obama would do well to go back to school and learn more about the Reagan presidency. For someone seeking the Democratic presidential nomination he clearly shows a lack of understanding as to why so many of us lifelong Democrats found his comments on Reagan’s legacy indigestible, to put it politely.

I don’t know how Sen. Obama voted in the 1980 and 1984 presidential elections. Perhaps he voted “present.”

Recently, presidential candidate Hillary Clinton said to her supporters in Nevada, “I guess this is how the west was won.” It was obvious from tonight’s debate that she has institutional racist tendencies. It’s her and her husband that has started attacking Senator Obama with negative aggression.

In her zeal for victory at all costs she stomped on the graves of our ancestors, slapped the face of our children, and grandchildren. Her comments reflect her mindset of manifest destiny, assimilation, and termination of Native American Tribes. Will this be her administrations policy towards Native Americans? Are we going to sit back and stand for this institutional racism?

As Americans we need to question her values and virtues. She says she has (35) years of leadership experience. Her personal history as a public figure shows her as being vindictive, negatively aggressive, and has a tendency of paranoia, exaggeration, suspiciousness, and is conspiratorial.

Hillary has a history of covering up scandals. She uses distortion, falsification, fabrication, and omission of the facts and truth to preserve her agenda. She hides behind women and minorities when she is caught distorting the truth, as she did in this debate and throughout her campaign.

Hillary has (35) years of conflicts of interest and ethic violations as part of her public service record. She has years of stonewalling experience in deflecting the truth of this. Her comment, “I guess this is how the west was won,” is a racist comment that should not be left unchallenged.

As Native Americans, we have aboriginal rights, treaty rights, constitutional and congressional mandates, and Executive Orders which direct the implementation of our aboriginal rights in America. As Native Americans our land and resources were taken from us with the same mindset, “I guess this was how the west was won.”

As Native Americans we need to throw our collective voices behind the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States. I believe that he will work to preserve, protect, promote, and enhance our rights as Native Americans for our children and grandchildren..

To close with a quote by a group of historian supporters, “As president, Barack Obama would only begin the process of healing what ails our society and ensuring that the U.S. plays a beneficial role in the world. But we believe he is that rare politician who can stretch the meaning of democracy, who can help revive what William James called "the civic genius of the people." Civic genius of the people, that includes our children and grandchildren.

Why do they bother to call this "American Voters Talk About Their Reactions" when, really, it's just people spinning for their candidate? CNN certainly is funny!

Obama wants a clean fight yet was the first to throw mud. His true colors showed tonight. Simple as that. Hillary answered the questions the best and gave the most details about her programs. Obama seems to dance around the bush when asked the tough questions. When in doubt, he somehow answers with "it's not about this or that but it's about this and that."

I'm tired of hearing/reading those that defend Obama's whining against the BIll & Hillary Clinton. This is politics. What did he expect? Hillary has my vote.

I supported Edwards 4 years ago, and I still like him. However, I am not really sure what he has done in the past 4 years. I strongly believe that it would be a mistake to continue the Bush/Clinton/Bush pattern. I cringe when I hear Bill Clinton speak these days. The candidate the Republicans are hoping for is Hillary. It will get uglier, especially after the primaries are over, and she is vulnerable to some very nasty attacks. I was glad to see Obama sticking up for himself, and not allowing himself to get "swiftboated."

I am a 53 year old white woman. My husband and sons are all Republicans, they have said that they would vote for Obama or Edwards but not Clinton.

I thought Obama did great tonight and I am supporting him.

FINALLY the truth came out! Hillary is a LIAR! Her and Bill have been twisting Obama's words throughout the entire campaign. Hopefully America sees her as the lying MACHINE she really is!

Some of you who have commented tonight seem to only say things in support of your candidate rather than take an objective view of the debate that took place tonight. First, let's examine a few things:

I am a Barack Obama supporter but I do believe that Edwards was positioned nicely to capitalize off the back and forth polemical tete a tete between Barack and Hillary. While I am cautious in suggesting that Edwards won the debate or turn the tide in his fight to win the Democratic nomination, I do think he was able to gain a greater attention to his ideas.

I thought that CNN's coverage of the debate was very tendentious and, perhaps, is most responsible for the squabbilng we all witnessed tonight. Hillary was consistently given more time to answer questions or present rebuttals than Obama and Edwards put together. I think that Obama got more face time than Edwards because, UNFORTUNATELY, this race is all too often treated as a two-man race. Still, Hillary was given too much face time and her answer were given much more deference by Wolf Blitzer. I so wish that the next debate can be handled by Anderson Cooper or Soledad O'Brien. Blitzer was horrible and did a poor job of moderating the debate. Even more, he tried to frame the answers of Barack, and, to some degree, Edwards, as being poor answers. For instance, he asked Barack what he would do about immigrants when it came to healthcare. Barack said that given the limited amount of resources, he would focus his attention on Americans who desperately need healthcare. He went a step further and said, however, that kids are always a concern and should be treated as a special case. Blitzer then proceeded to ask Edwards what he thought and added that what happens when these uninsured immigrants start flooding the hospitals almost in a way to suggest that Barack was off in his answer. Much to Blitzer's dismay, Edwards agreed with Barack and pointed out that everyone on the stage shared the same sentiment. On the other hand, Blitzer would try to give credence to Hillary's answers by asking the Edwards and Obama did they agree with her take or believe they could be as vigorous in their support of a certain issue as she had presented herself to be, which intimated that her answers were good. Not only that was not the case in some instances, but also it is not right for the moderator to exemplify this sort of bias. This only leads to charges–be they fair or not–that CNN is bias for the Clinton campaign and should stand for Clinton News Network.

In addition, a lot of people have attacked Obama for going after Clinton. First of all, there's two important distinctions that need to be made with regard to that salvo against Obama. If Bill Clinton, the former President of the United States who consistently gets air time, distorts Obama record, then Obama should have the right to respond. It is not difficult for even a Hillary supporter to recognize that Obama deserves the opportunity to respond. Otherwise, the Clintons are able to manipulate the public into believing things that are not true that could influence how they vote. I can admit that Hillary and Bill are very savvy and have begun to tag-team against Barack in such a way that makes it difficult for him to remain dignified and, at the time, not feel justified in responding to the mugslinging on Bill's part. If Michelle was given as much time as Bill, then I am sure this would be less of an issue as she could respond to Bill while Barack continues to run the tactful campaign that he has tried to run since day one. But when you're running against the wife of a former President, that's not easy since he has never left the public eye. In fact, if not for George Bush's screwups over the years, one would hardly noticed that Bill is no longer in the White House with as much attention as he gets.

The second distinction to note about Barack's criticism of Hillary tonight is the type of questions he was responding to. Everyone points out that Barack went after Hilary but noone seems to point to the questions he was being asked. While Hillary was being asked serious policy questions, the questions by CNN toward Barack bordered on the trite and could be deemed as offensive by the black community and all Americans for matter. Why? Well, here you have a Presidential race and Barack is being asked questions like does he believe that Bill Clinton was indeed the first black President? If CNN is geared on dealing with the issues, why should a question like that matter? Let me ask that again for the reading impaired. IF CNN IS GEARED ON DEALING WITH THE ISSUES, WHY SHOULD WHETHER OR NOT BILL CLINTON SHOULD BE CONSIDERED THE FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT RELEVANT TO THE FRACTIOUS ISSUES FACING AMERICANS? It's not. THINK ABOUT IT PEOPLE!!! The question that started the schism tonight between Barack and Hillary pointedly asked Barack to respond to an insinuation put out by the Clinton campaign that Barack does not account for the money he plans to spend. How, then, is Barack suppose to respond without alerting Americans to the fact that a lot of distortions have been put out about him? Barack was also asked to respond to the commentary by Charles Rangel? Hillary was given the questions on healthcare, Iraq, and the economy. CNN, THIS TACTIC WAS TOTALLY UNFAIR TO BOTH JOHN EDWARDS AND BARACK OBAMA!!! They should have been each allowed the opportunity to start off first talking about those issues. Instead, Hillary was given POLICY questions, Barack was given POLEMICAL questions and Edwards was given a PARCEL of the remains between the Hillary and Barack exchanges on various topics. Thus, it is not totally accurate to imply that Barack went after Hillary without recognizing that the majority of the questions posed to Barack were confrontational questions rather than questions that required answers from him on how he could help this country move into a right direction if he is elected President of the United States.

It was disgusting and I am very disappointed with CNN's coverage. Wolf Blitzer needs to admit that he supports Hillary. That's fine. He should be able to support the candidate of his choice. But don't pretend to be objective and neutral when Stevie Wonder can see that you're not. I think that the candidates in this race are owed that sort of regard; more importantly, I think the American people are owed that respect as it would allow us to deal with REAL ISSUES and not the sort of underhanded tactics that lead to the back-and-forth arguing we saw tonight that have little to do with substantive issues and more to do with issues of black and white.

One final thought–I thought Barack gave one of the best answers of the night when he suggest that Martin Luther King, Jr. would not have endorsed anyone. It's true. As a historian, I can say that he is on point with his answer here. My wife and I had stated that to be true before anyone answered and were interested in what Barack would say since we are supporting him. We were happy to hear that he stayed true to MLK and did not recreate King's vision as we have seen done so often. It was also interesting that Hillary never answered that question, particularly after Barack answered it. I GUARANTEE you that Hillary would have outlined why MLK would have endorsed her, ignoring the fact that King never endorsed a candidate. He only endorsed justice for all!!!

Let's get this right America no matter who you are supporting.

Hillary Clinton used all her time then interrupted Barack Obama's time . She shouted and pointed and ranted. If Brarack Obama had shouted and ranted back at her he would have been seen as out of line and disrespectful because she is a woman. He was behaving correctly, not weakly. Hillary behaved abominably. I do not want a president who will conduct herself the way she did in this debate..

Wolf Blitzer did nothing to manage the debate. Get Anderson Cooper back in this job. Cooper did an excellent job of keeping the time equal and questions fairly apportioned and answered.

Go Hillary, Obama cant keep up with you and keeps dodging the question especially when it comes to votes, and his healthcare plan is scary

It seems to me these candidates have to just be shooting themselves in the foot when they bicker like this. Is anybody really going to vote for Clinton because Obama once defended a slum lord, or because he said that Republicans "had ideas"? I'd be more inclined to vote against Hillary for calling attention to such trivialities in a debate where serious issues are at stake. And the same goes for Obama, calling out Hillary for being on the board of Wal-Mart. And while Edwards was on best behavior tonight (and did put on a bravo performance), he's probably been the worst of the attackers overall, pretending not to understand Hillary's positions in weeks past, just like Bush turned voters off to Kerry by pretending not to understand his Iraq stance in '04.

If there was a serious candidate who would just make it a policy to never even mention the opponents by name in a negative light, I'm pretty sure they'd have my vote.

I'm really getting tired of Clinton/Obama bickering and mud slinging. It is both childish and unprofessional. I'm far more impressed with John Edwards' enthusiasm, passion, professionalism, his plans to get our country on track, and his avoidance of the childish squabbles. Every debate I've watched, John's passion for this campaign and for leading our country has been a shining light. He can appeal to a broad spectrum of American people in all size towns and cities in all states of our country. Clinton and Obama have become too polarizing – when a Democratic candidate is chosen, will the followers of those candidates not chosen be willing to follow either Clinton or Obama? I doubt it because these two candidates have attacked each other too harshly. Could their candidates stand behind John Edwards as the Democratic Candidate for President? Yes, they could as he could be the person to lead all Democrats to the next election. He has the ability to unify our party.

I think John Edwards won this hands down! Barack Obama is a REPUBLICAN and I would hate to see a REPUBLICAN get the democratic nomination in November. He is also related to Dick Cheney folks, don't forget that. A leopard does not change his spots that quick! We are in real trouble if Obama is elected in the primary. He is the REPUBLICAN puppet. OH MY GOD!!!! We are in trouble!!! Go, John Edwards, Go! You already have my vote in MO. I have already voted, and hope it counts!!!!

TAKE NOTE: Of all the posts on this board there have been about equal positive and negative comments for both Clinton and Obama. HOWEVER, Edwards has had an overwhelming majority of the comments be extremely positive. That should save something…

What is this double standard that if clinton got gang on by two candidate, then we give her some sympathy vote. Now Obama is being ganged up by Clinton and Edwards, then the sympathy is gone. Why are we having double standards?

Beware that Edwards might already have a deal with the Clintons that he will be a VP on the Clinton's ticket. Evidence: Edwards was on Obama side before (saying he was agent of change) but do you here Edwards saying that he is an agent of change now? I don't. Now Edwards is siding with Clinton? Whats up with Edwards Strategy? Edwards might be just giving lip services to us and go for an VP position. If Edwards is truly about helping the poor why is Edwards siding with Clinton which we all know Clinton is not for the poor but for the Rich Corporate and lobbyist. That is a thought.

For anyone to make the comment that Barack is playing the race card is absolutely ridiculous. The media and surrogants of the Clinton campaign have been bringing the issue of race to the for front more than anyone.If anything Barack has been trying to avoid being labeled as "The Black Candidate", and as far as Diana saying that black leaders pull the race card when things aren't going their way that is stretching things not just a little bit but a lot. It is that same ignorant way of thinking that divides nations versus uniting them. I believe that every voter should close their eyes and listen to what each candidate has to say not just about the issues, but voters must read between the lines to evaluate their character and that is exactly what i've been doing. Despite the fact that I am 18, a first time voter, black and that I am a woman. I made my choice not on race and not on gender but on the grounds of who seems trustworthy, who inspires the nation to unite, who has the best interest of everyone in the nation, and also who really is the candidate of change. Hillary is not Bill Clinton, and she shouldn't get some kind of boost for that connection. The Clinton era is the era of the 90's, their time has come and gone, and quite frankly electing Hillary is not a movement forward its a movement backwards. You cant just base a vote on the ability of her husband to boost the economy in the 90s. That was a different time with different issues. Everyone know's once you try to make the same magic happen twice it never works. Perfect example, The Bush Presidents. It is time for real change and thats exactly what Obama stands for!
We're behind you Obama and good job tonight!

Clinton looked weak. Never could stand up to a tough question. Maybe Bill can ride in on his white horse and save the day….

I can't for the life of me understand why anyone thinks of Hillary Clinton as a strong woman. She let herself and her daughter be humiliated by Bill Clinton's public infidelity…she stayed with him for the power. She is weak and power hungry, I don't want her running the country.

I am so proud of how Obama stood up to that Hillary and her evil attacks. He showed he can and he did it tactfully. I am sooooo tired of the Clinton dirty politics. I will NEVER vote for that woman…and I am a woman. We need Barack Obama to unite this country.

I have backed Edwards for quite awhile. I don't understand why people aren't flocking to him. To me, he is a shining star with a heart of gold. I think people don't take him seriously because he is handsome. People should just listen to his message, without prejudice. It would be great to have a woman and a minority, but just because someone is not one of those things, does not mean we should discard them. Edwards is my man. He is smart, intelligent, and compassionate. He is used to speaking under pressure, and fighting for justice.
He would be a great president! I wish everyone would just take a chance and vote for him. I am not going to give up, and I hope he is able to stay in the race until the end. If he loses, I would like him to at least be vice-president, so his ideas and presence can add to the strength of our country. He is like some great movies that are not blockbusters. People end up really loving them after some time has gone by, but they don't have the advertising that others do, so people only see the films when friends tell them about them. I am telling everyone about Edwards!

We are living in a world of fantasies if you think Obama can run our country during difficult times like these.He does not have the experience to deal with the tough issues that we as Americans are facing today. We are in a middle of a war and our economy is suffering badly, among other issues. He may have the charisma that Hillary , but who will likely get the job done at the end of the day. Not to say that he will never be a good president, but he is just not ready for this job. Maybe 4 or 8 years from now, but not NOW.

Edwards and Obama clearly see the corporate domination of the USA – it's like 1935 all over again. At least this time we have three competent people to choose from. I like Obamas forthrightness. Hillary is too locked into "spin" for me. I'd LOVE to see Edwards rip into the healthcare/financial/energy industries.

Does America seriously think that they need someone who can do great speeches to become the US President because GWB couldn't speak? COME ON!

I bet you that it'll be another Jimmy Carter scenario if Obama wins anything more. No doubt the Middle East will take him for a ride…a ride to death for American soldiers!

Hillary, let him turn negative, let him be the black John Edwards: Angry about nothing except his failures. You know that they'll lose and you'll win. Everybody knows its true…

This debate proves,that John Edwards is the only one of the three that can win in Nov.The Republicans would eat Clinton and Obama alive for this sort of talk.

I think it is hilarious how so many people have made posts saying that Obama 'threw the first stone'. If someone throws a bunch of stones at you in the street and then runs into a building, then you go into the building and throw a stone yourself, did you 'throw the first stone' because you were the first to throw one in a building? It seems like all the Clinton supporters have some fixation on the woman that logic can't even penetrate. Obama does want to talk the issues but he is getting walked on by Bill and Hillary's subtle mudslinging and media manipulation. She is nearly as sleezy as Edwards the ambulance chaser. (Speaking as a Carolina resident, Edward's past is one that hasn't been brought to the table in this race but anyone involved in medicine knows his stench…he was on point to be sly tonight but that seems that is what people bend over for, slyness. That's all the Clinton family knows)

By the way…do we live in a two party monarchy or have we all really become so narrow minded amidst reality TV, Ipods and Blogs that we have to keep the leader of our country within 2 families?! I have only been alive for 21 years and dont remember the Reagan years so I really have only heard two last names in reference to our Executive administration! We preach freedom of choice all over the world, but in America, where we actually have it, we treat it as if its a E-Magazine popularity contest. I find it sad that so many of us can be so easily fooled by the amount someones name surfaces and by individuals (The Clinton years) taking credit for economic ups and downs that depend much more on business and the consumer than on the rhetoric and sporatic bill processing by the president. And for those who go on about how great the economy was because of Clinton. The man took power right after a natural economic recession so of course the economy would get better in his terms. If this crap continues, i'm taking an extended vacation…maybe I can make it back in time for Jeb Bush's inaugeration after we get tired of the Clintons again or after Hillary breaks down when Bill hooks up with one of HER interns.

John Edwards was amazing, as usual. People need to get beyond the "American Idol" like coverage of Clinton and Obama, and focus on who would be the best president. John Edwards is the only Dem who beats all Repubs, including McCain. He is the only one not accepting millions of dollars in corporate donations from big oil, HMOs, banks, nuclear power, coal, etc. like HRC and BHO. Edwards wants to help the poor and middle class, which in turn will lift all of us up. Today, Martin Luther King III wrote a beautiful and inspiring letter to John, urging him to stay in the race and fight for the voiceless. He said his dad was a fighter like John. It made my Martin Luther King Day. Go JRE!

Wake Up America!! The Clinton's represent the same hoary old political dynasties that have turned this nation into the laughingstock of the industrialized world….they are the Bush's only democrat i.e. centrist republicans…this woman wouldn't even let Obama respond without interruption! She looked rattled and immature..for someone with so much second-hand experience! Obama made a mistake in getting into it with her, stick to your plans Obama! Bill and Hillary please..just go away and assist Wal Mart in furthering ruining the working class people……GO OBAMA!!

This comment is to Diana -As a Black American I am deeply offended by your mentioning the "race card" as if this is some sort of game! Race IS an issue in this country whether there is an election or not. Race is not a card, or an excuse. Race is a reality as are the images and preconceived notions that come along with it. You, who are probably not a Black American, may not understand that race is an ever present reality in this country. Even though Barack Obama is not Black like I am in the sense that he is half African and half European, and I am Black with some European and Native American ancestry he is subject to the same prejudices,covert racism(i.e. hiring practices, promotions at jobs and the like), and overt racism via divisive comments like yours. You said that it is tragic that Black Americans are so naive that we fall for some bait tactic. That is simply false and your sentiments are far more tragic because they have merely proven that racism is far from dead. You asked if "we" want the "race card" played for 4 more years one race made being part of the Black race an issue for hundreds of years and it wasn't Black people. So before you make a comment like that crack open a history book and read about things that Black Americans have done despite some other Americans constantly paying the "race card".

Although he made a savvy political choice by not asking most of the questions he knew Hillary would ask of Barack for him, Edwards brought up yet again that Barack has received the most money from the Big Pharaceuticals. This is of course a non issue since the great majority of the record-breaking fundraising that Barack has brought in has come from INDIVIDUALS and not from organized groups. We've gone over this time and again, and Edwards bringing it up again is one example of something people seem to be giving him a pass on here for tonight, namely clever, timely mudslinging… I don't blame him, he's still polling last, and has to do SOMETHING to try and get some attention, but don't pretend that any of them are completely above doing this sort of thing, that's just naieve. There is, however, a difference in degree to which some candidates will do and say anything to get the reaction they want, regardless of whether it hurts the Party or the Cause.

Well I happen to work for a Big Pharma company, and I made my first personal political contribution last December to Barack Obama. Technically, contributing to any democrat is probably voting against my personal interests. However, its too simplistic to think that any informed voter makes his decision on one issue. As a matter of fact, my company did better in the nineties than the 00's, and it has little to do with who is in the white house… My issue is electability. I and MANY independents and democrats that sometimes vote republican will respect Barack more for his ability to point out with real political fairness and courage those things that got Reagan elected twice. Clinton is too calculated to be able to admit the same thing out loud. I figure she'd make a decent president, but I want a great president. She'd probably get just enough electoral votes to win, but she'll never have a mandate. She's smart but never vulnerable, and the tears she shed in New Hampshire may very well have been real, but she battles the perception every day that they were calculated. Call it undeserved or unfair, but there it is. We have the drama and fears and hate and suspicions of Bill Clinton wrapped up in the HRC package. It's not fair to her but it is a SERIOUS issue, and democrats afraid of another republican presidency should be losing sleep over this one…

I could go on and on, and the voluminous intelligent posts by fellow Barack supports previous to mine made many of my points for me… I've been a cynical sideline spectator since 1996, and no one has ever truly excited me in American politics, let alone got me to cough up $25 for a political candidate, until now. I hope this anecdote is illustrative to some (hopefully many) of you still on the fence regarding who to support. There are alot of us out there sick and tired of the divisions of the past, the soundbites, the polls, the pandering and the dispicable media coverage of poliical affairs. Maybe this is a reaction to how bad Bush has been, but its hard not to see the stark and admirable differences between him and Barack Obama, and even to some extent John Edwards. I think it's pretty clear that the best combination is Barack/John or John/Barack. They will compliment each other geographically, demographically, and personal style-wise. Hillary should stay in the senate and support and lead the progressive agenda of her president through Congress with all her heart.

If anyone should feel bad tonight it should be Wolf Blitzer and CNN, for once again failing to moderate a dignified and informative debate. I completely agree with those of you who have already pointed out the unnecessary questions on "the First Black President", avoiding questions directly related to issues polling as very important, and not firmly sticking to time restraints, exclusive camera angles, Wolf's complete inability to rein in the filibustering and talking over each other, etc.

(hope that last bit doesn't hurt my chances of being posted, in all other areas CNN is my network of record, they just need to get it right in the last primary debates!)

Obama's become more and more cocky. That's not going down well with us internationally, at ALL. I'd now say the unlikeability factor isnt just a Hillary exclusive, if it ever was. I just hope they appear on the same ticket.

Voters are lazy – they vote for a name they recognize (ie: Clinton). Our country needs a new vision, a new direction. Obama offers this; he has proven that he can work w/ democrats and republicans. Our country needs a president who is not devisice (Clinton!), one who is able to cross party lines and inspire both parties to work together for the common good. According to polls, Obama is the man who can unite our country. Clinton is too devisive.

H.C. sure showed her true colors. She nearly drug Obama down to her disgusting level of a "cat fight". Unfortunately he had no choice but to confront her but there is no way any man can win that kind of a battle with any woman in that circumstance. At best he let us see the real Hilary. For sure there must be a better female to represent us ladies and gentleman in White House in the near future.

Rex & Irene …….I agree with both of your comments.
Rex, If Edwards is not the Democratic Nominee I will for the 1st time in my life vote for a Republican and I'm 65 yrs old.
Irene, yet what's with the Star Power and Oprah O'bama, yea everybody's got an agenda but you're right John Edward's agenda is fighting for all the American people, not just the Blacks, not just the women, not just the Hispanics, not just the Asians, not just the whites but ALL THE AMERICAN PEOPLE which is exactly what a PRESIDENT is supposed to do. John Edwards deserves more then anyone because of just that to be the Democratic Nominee. If not Edwards the White House will remain occupied by the Republicans because they will not only get this Democrats vote but the vast majority of the INDEPENDANTS vote which is always what swings elections. If the Republican nominee should turn out to be John McCain then believe me the only Democrat that will beat him is John Edwards.
Bob, Palm Springs Ca.

Barack is coming on way too strong, way too defensive, while staging himself as being on the offense. Sorry, I see right through him. And when he does stage a direct attack against Hillary, she always comes back with a clear response without saying so many "uhs". This is clear sign that I am tired of George's poor speaking skills and would refuse to listen to another 8 mores years of "uhs". This debate is proving to be the most fascinating to date for it is the first that pits the two frontrunners against each other in front of their most desired audience and one that doesn't hesitate to acknowledge with applause every valid point. An audience that is more representative than before of our African-Americans. Barack likes to say "they" should vote for what's best for them, but I hope "they" realize that statement is just a larger part of his "empty" promise. I absolutely loved seeing him attack Hillary so directly tonight. This has confirmed my belief that Barack is unelectable. He's a poor debater. John is correctly positioning himself for the long term. This time around is not his turn, the next will be. Tonight is my first moment of disappointing realization that Barack will not be electable in 8 years. Then there's the "black president Bill" question…. gotta go!!

Forget about gender and race , look for substance , experience and intelligence..!!
Hilary Clinton is the only candidate that will be able to take on a Republican candidate.

GO Hillary- we don't need another president who thinks they know so much more than they really do.

Obama- don't get cocky.

Bill and Hillary are throwing mud all around. This is bad for the democrats (and this country) and I hope undecided as well as current Hillary supporters would see through this and support the right person, that is Obama! It is ironic that Bill's lies work only with certain democrats. If Hillary gets nominated Bill will not have any chance against republicans, all the dirt with his lies and sexual games in the White House would come up again. Hillary would be considered an ordinary person with no experience (the way she is), except for being Bill's wife if that gives experience, otherwise totally irrelevant and would be smashed. Obama is the right person to unite this country and fix the current mess. Go Obama.

What concerns me is that I can't wait for Bush to get out of office and have been very pro-democrat the last 8 years but find myself liking Hillary Clinton less and less. I could easily support any of the other democrats but she reminds me of a democratic version of Bush/Rove with her slash and burn style of politics. Unless you start off loving Hillary and Bill it's very easy to get turned off by their mudslinging. Let's be honest, she really isn't that likable. If you put her up against McCain who can likely win over independents and some democrats I honestly don't think she can win. While I don't advocate picking a president on whether they are likable, the majority of people in this country are not policy wonks and that's what they value. I actually think Edwards probably has the best chance in the general and Obama can probably win too. Edwards has the least chance of winning the primary though. The Republicans dislike McCain but he will win the primary because they know he's the only one with any chance to beat the democrats. McCain vs. Clinton means McCain gets his usual independents and some crossover democrats and a whole lot of fired-up evangelicals who will turn out in droves. Clinton gets democrats…who aren't put off by her come November.

All this bickering between Hillary and Obama is making Edwards look good. All he has to do is sit back and watch them fall… I know I am sick of hearing all of the whinning.

Hillary finally found her own voice! It only took her 50+ years to do so. What a joke!

The debate tonight showed me a lot. It confirmed with me that all of these people-Hillary, Barack, and John are great humans.

However, its still time for change. This change can not actually come from external experience…it has to come from internal experience as a human.

This evening as I watched it all…Obama kept it all centered. John made his points, Hillary made hers, and it was all centered around the person that had the persona of a king. That was Obama.

This evening, I could tell that he did not want to stoop to Hillary's level, because she runs her mouth a lot. However., he and his camp felt the need to put her in her place. For every word she said, he commented right back. He did this more for the American people, and not for himself. Because he knows whats right and wrong, however, when he is peaceful, people say he is passive. When he is a fighter, people say he's mean. So its like, he did what he did tonight, and I was happy. I did not like to see him get dirty…but he did…because he had to. He should better explain his present status at the meetings and so forth, but I pretty much understand what he is talking about–because on his senate website—it states a lot of what Hillary was going by…

Hillary did very badly. It was odd though when she spoke she spoke of her husbands experience and not that of her own. When Edwards asked her about lobbyist funds for her camp…she never answered him. She did not explain a thing about the Wal-mart board. She has yet failed to explain what her 35 years of experience is to date. I could tell that Hillary would not ever get a log with Obama or Edwards as a team, and I doubt her persona would get a long well with others. I really wish if a female ran for a race, it would be one that was pure, and good.

John Edwards, is a great man, however, I saw that it was very hard for him to calm down the other two while in they were heated up…I felt that he did great with calming them down, and those two should be ashamed of it…however, Obama has to handle his business. When Edwards asked Obama about his record, it was a lame attempt to point this out…b/c it was previouly explained. When Edwards called Hillary out about her lobbyist…she replied and skipped over his questions. Overall, I do not like how either Hillary of Obama have treated Edwards. However, you must earn respect…Then his statement on being the best canidate to go up against McCain…he was dead wrong…Hillary or Obama would beat McCain…of he cant do well in Nevada…he aint going to do well anywhere else.

So tonight was a show…and my interest lie in Obama and McCain. I like both of these men, and I am a 30 year old African-American female.

One last thing…Obama is better than what a African-American canidate could ever be…he is of white heritage…and african…and that Toni Morrison BS about what it means to be a black president is sad…its not true.

For 2009, I feel that Obama can best serve all people at this time.

Go Obama!!
Hilary 35 years of experience? What is she talking about? She is the most partisan person and there is no way she will unite this country. People LOATHE her even democrats. I am tired of the Bush/Clinton Dynasty for the past 20 years. We need new blood.

It continues to amaze me how John Edwards has won the last two Democratic debates (even according to CNN polls), and yet, he doesn't get the press he has EARNED??? I think rather than the issues, it comes down to ratings ("Clinton & Obama battle it out" makes for ratings.) and if not ratings, could it be due to the corporate media trying to silence him because he's fighing for real Americans rather than multi-national corporations, special interest groups, Washington insiders, etc?

I really wish he could get the same playing field.

We don't need Hillary & Bill in the election. Republicans will rip them to shreads. No holes barred.

Obama…. I think he's for the people "most" of the time, but he's afraid to take on the status-quo. I don't think he's up for the BATTLE that has to be fought if a Democrat is going to turn this country on its ear- and make the USA a great nation again. Additionally, Obama isn't going to win any Debates. He's just too slow a putting formt a well thought out direct response to the REAL issues. By this point, he should KNOW where he stands.

Edwards has to fight with everything he's got to stay in the battle.
He's doing a great job, but he has to continue forward so that more American's can hear his voice and 'KNOW that he is really fighting for what is RIGHT!!!

i hope that CNN and other networks pay attention to what we American's want.
More John Edwards, More of what he stands for. More of what is fair and good!

John Edwards for PRESIDENT. John Edwards for AMERICA!! He is the only candidate who can bring R-E-S-P-E-C-T back to the White House and this country!!!!

I am personally appalled at Hillary's tactics. Her bullying approach has left Obama in no other position than to defend himself. When he tries to talk, she talks louder and cuts him off. Of course, he's stumbling-wouldn't you if you were being attacked and you were normally a calm, level headed person? Secondly, Obama's words are continuously being taken out of context. I think it is only fair that he defends himself and clarifies his remarks. Unfortunately, he was lured into spending most of the debate clarifying things that have been misconstrued about him. Hillary played on the fact that Obama is a nice, sincere guy. Obama will have to learn to not be pulled into this type of dirty debate tactic again.

In my opinion, Hillary does not positively represent or reflect the contemporary leadership styles, class, and dignity of any professional, educated woman I know. As a military officer (Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran two times over) who has worked hard to break through female stereotypes, I think she's a step in the wrong direction. I also don't think she is the right person to represent us abroad at this time in our history.

How do you think Hillary would manage our government with her bullying, abrasive leadership style? Would she get anything done? Maybe, but because she won't hear anyone else's ideas, it will be a repeat of what we have now. A president needs to be able to listen to all sides and encourage friendly debate THEN make a decision. The presidency is about leadership, not about management. This is where Hillary has it all wrong and Obama has it all right.

We need a person who can unify this country and regain our respect within the international community. We need someone to bring hope back into our everyday lives. We need someone who will bring our troops home and to do it safely. Obama is the only one who seems to tell the public what he is thinking in terms of pros and cons on issues rather than playing into the politically correct thing to say. That's why Obama has my vote. He's not only brilliant and inspirational, but he also possesses a genuine sense of empathy and sincerity about him that is rarely found today. It will truly be a monumental day in America when he is elected!!

I have been uncomfortable with Hillary Clinton ever since she wanted an office in the West Wing while first lady, and when she put forward a health-care inititative while Bill Clinton was in office. She was the president's spouse, not an elected official responsible for developing policy. It was not her perview. Both actions were inappropriate and I wonder what other inappropriate activities she might attempt as president.

I think Obama brought on the entire spat, he wanted to get back at what happened last week – since he lost Nevada (and earlier NH). Clinton had to respond to him – and everytime someone questions his motives he talks about how those are tactics of politics of the past (I think its very condescending of him to speak in sucha way). I think someone needs to send Senator Obama a wake up call if he is the nominee from the democratic party (yes, there is actually a nomination process – I mean thought he constantly keeps on saying he is going to be president, signed, sealed, and delivered) the republicans are not going to play friendly and talk about big ideals come this summer. Has he already forgotten the last election – I mean the swiftboat ads – does that remind us of anything. This is politics, this is an election, contrasts will be made, and you have to explain every word you ever spoke. Thats the reality of the situation – when you want to be President of the most powerful nation in the world, then yes you have to explain what you meant when you spoke about just about anything.
Yes, it was disgraceful to watch them go at it, and yes, it will probably hurt them both in the end if they are so lucky to become the democratic nominee -

Winner of this debate : John Edwards – he looked more presidential than either Clinton or Obama.

Winner in SC: Barak Obama
Upset- Senator Edwards ( he deserves it after putting up with them)
Who actually has the most substance – Clinton (if only she had the charm)

Edwards did well to stay out of the mudslinging but considering he was not facing continual attacks from the Clintons (as Obama is), it's easy for him to do so. I get tired of hearing him talk about poverty all the time…certainly it's an issue, but he needs to stop being so one-dimensional. Compared to Senator Clinton, I don't see how anyone can accuse of Obama of sleazy tactics or low blows — she's the master of that, and when she doesn't want to do it herself she has her husband or another talking head do the dirty work for her. Certainly Obama could have stayed away from "talking tough" but then I'm sure people would have accused him of not standing up for himself: it's a lose-lose situation.

I think America is tired of our country being divided along the lines of race, sex, religion, etc, and our media networks do little but encourage this polarization. I wonder where CNN gets these ridiculous questions about Bill Clinton as the first "black" president or who MLK would endorse. They do little to improve our knowledge of the candidates and seem to be intended to be divisive. My hope is that Obama will emerge as the Democratic nominee — Hillary is far too divisive and Edwards has more appeal but has not proven he can win over the independents or the undecided. The Democrats have to stop bashing each other, Bush (too easy of a target) and Republicans in general if they plan on uniting this country and getting things done. If we really want change, we'll finally end the Clinton-Bush dynasty in the White House and move on to something better!

Edwards is the only one of the three that has any real chance of beating McCain- never mind the polls. Remember New Hampshire? The Clintons have a ton of unsightly baggage, and no matter the optimistic media coverage and polls, there is far too much latent racism in this country for Barack Obama to be elected president in 2008. The most effective "arguments" against Obama will have nothing to do with his qualities, experience, intelligence, or character. The case against Barack will not have to be made. Millions of Americans will have made up their mind based on his race and name- and reason will have nothing to do with it. I wish I had more faith in the average voter, but over 50 million voted for GW Bush—a second time!

I resent John Edwards not being given enough time or that more questions were not directed to him. If the media were fair and not focusing entirely on Hillary/Obama, his voice wouldn't be so drowned out. Between Hillary and Obama, I take Hillary but between Edwards and either of them I take Edwards. Besides, I think he is more electable when it comes down to getting the Republicans OUT. And so what that Hillary got her ire up – why shouldn't she?

I don't like it when clinton and Obama get into it because it stirs away from the issues. But all in all I think OBAMA did a decent job in defending himself while being attacked from both sides. Bill Clinton needs to stay home and stay out of the race. I feel for obama, he is having to deal with both clintons. I think edwards after SC needs to get out of the race and endorse OBAMA.

Go Obama / edwards ticket.

Where did you get Amy Holmes? She's the GOP designated attack dog against Hillary Cliton. I just listened to her on Larry King fawning over Obama while castigating Hillary for being confrontational to Obama…give me a break! Hillary gave as good as she got. Was she supposed to just take Obama's attacks without any retort. The only reason she's sucking up to Obama is because the GOP hates the Clintons more than the devil himself and believe that Obama is far more beatable in the general election than Hillary!

Obama must get the nomination!
He is the only one the the Republicans will not be able to pick apart come November!
What the heck – can't everyone who has posted so far see this?
Do you really want 8 more years of war?

Clinton and Obama: I actually enjoyed the feud. I think it was important to see how they can handle themselves when they have been challenged (after all, much of the campaign trail is spent speaking to friendly audiences).

To me Hillary looks very uncomfortable when she is challenged or in a tough spot.

Obama I thought did a good job keeping his cool and not appearing defensive, and his responses to Clinton's attacks sounded genuine and reasonable (I don't know whether there was any merit to either of the candidates attacks). In general I support Obama because I think he is the only candidate who can end the Culture War in America.

Edwards: Came out looking to be the mature candidate. Unfortunately, he also came across like a one-trick pony: Poverty! In my opinion, a candidate with a single passion would make a great senator or congressperson, not a great president. Edwards came across like one of those third-party candidates who has no chance of winning but is successful in raising awareness about his pet cause.

Obama seems really arrogant to me. It's as though every question he's asked is beneath him. He leaves one no choice but to go for Hillary, Edwards or, alas, the Republican. I could never vote for him.

i watched the first hour of the debate, but then i decided to watch something more realistic. so i turned on big time wrasslin' where the characters at least know theyre fake

Edwards is now a contender. I'll be campaigning for him from now on!

we want CHANGES; vote me

John Edwards clearly won this debate. One can only hope he will stay in the race and spare us all from having to listen to nothing but absurd bickering matches between Clinton and Obama. And they will continue, since the Clintons learned their lessons in the 'politics of personal destruction' well, as Hillary keeps reminding us.

Way to bait the candidates into a cat fight CNN. Try to ask questions about the issues facing the country next time and not rather or not "Bill Clinton was a black President"

Many people would like to vote for for Obama, but have thought he can't win the General Election. Now, I think people would like to vote for Edwards, but think he can't win the General Election. Clinton will probably win for the wrong reasons.

I am amazed that there seems to be such a passion surrounding Obama. He is only a Senator by accident because he was selected to run against Alan Keyes as an afterthought. He has accomplished nothing but talk. I can't say I'm enthralled with Hillary but I see her as the only option because I don't think Edwards can win. Obama, I think, would be a disaster and all talk, no action.

Why is everyone ignoring John Edwards? Clearly after this debate, he is the most Presidential candidate and cares the most about you and me. He represents both experience and change- experience in helping out the poor and middle class, but change in that he doesn't accept corporate funds (compares Hillary's $90 mil to his $30 mil). The mudslinging between Hillary and Obama is just going to lose this election for the Democrats. CNN, America, look to John Edwards as our next President.

If Hillary gets the nomination, I'm denouncing the Democratic party, and moving to the right. Do all of you see what the effect is now, if Obama doesn't get the nod? This will happen over, and over again… landslide voctory for the Republican warhawk party in November.
Shame on you Hillary/imperialsim/dynasty supporters.

I believe the US of A is in great trouble (economically, socially, militarily and politically speaking) if another Clinton gets in office. How fast Americans are to forget the manner in which they left the White House years back and the number questionable situations exist that surround the both of them. Not to mention under the Clinton administration the military was cut by about 1/5 it's size if not more. Be cautious America.

I am happy to see Obama stand up to HRC. And its not that he was not paying attention, HRC made an inferrence to Reagan mentioning republicans and Obama took that opportunity to clear the matter. I enjoyed the way he handled and answered everything that came at him Unlike HRC who answered questions that had not even been asked. I'm stilll trying to figure her out her answer to the African American Women and healthcare question. And she is such a kiss ass how many times did she pander the the CBC? Edwards is such a gentleman. I think that the commraderie btwn Edwards and Obama should be noted. HRC is incable of that.

This debate is a continuing example of Clinton distortions, evasions and bs. Let's be honest here. The reason the Clintons are soo angry with Obama is he ruined their aura of invincibility and inevitablity. He revealed Hillary for the weak candidate she is and that's why the tone of everything associated with the democrats has become soo vile.
Look for the Clinton humiliation in November when the landslide comes and the Clinton era will officially end.

16 years of Clinton/Bush is enough! Hillary keeps speaking about her years of experience, but she has only 2 more years than Obama as a senator. She is running on Bill's record. Our country needs a new direction. Obama offers that.

I'm sick of the machine that's been running this country because it hasn't worked in the past and certainly won't work in the future…I like people with real emotions not machines…I'm glad Obama went toe-to-toe with "the machine" tonight and for the sake of all us young Americans I hope he emerges victorious in the end

I was glad to see Obama reveal Clinton to be the two-faced politician she truly is. Edwards had a good night as well. Most of the 'barbs' were just Clinton bringing up issues about Obama that every politician would have on their record, and trying to twist them so that they make him look bad. (For example, voting present for procedural reasons)

Hillary Clinton assumes that Americans are too stupid to see through her falsehoods. I wonder if she is right or wrong.

Exactly my point Med Student!!! I agree with you.

I think that Obama will try to represent everyone!! My point is all of the things that is fighting for affects African-Americans as well as a large majority of minorities. However, the facts are what they are…African-Americans get paid less, less likely to graduate high school, entering college less, more likely to get arrested and convicted. The prejudice and injustices faced by all people of color still exists.

My point was that I think that he stands for EVERYONE not just African-Americans. A lot of the issues that he is fighting for arglely affects African-Americans and Latinos (people of color)!!

I was making a point to Berniece. To imply that he is does not consider himself African-American is ludacris! That is the point!! I think he fights for the impoverished and that includes a large number of minorities!!!

hilary is an evil woman, john edwards relys on the same principles, obama is going to win

Lets see here: Bush,Clinton, Bush, and Clinton! Enough already! Don't you voters have brains enough to know when these people will say what they can to get elected, just look at the Hillary and Bill show, what a joke! Lies and doing anything to get elected. Sick of the bickering, look up debate in the dictionary! The question that started this was Bill's involvement! The transcript is right here! What NOBODY seemed to hear was that when Edwards tried to make a scene with Obama's "present" voting record he stated that it was becaause he supported the measure but it had to be changed before a Yeah vote! God the attention span of you, Edwards, and Hillary is amazing! Can't wait until they have to meet with leaders, I guess they'll hear what they want and the media can spin it the way they want! If you TRULY want change then vote for McCain or Obama, if not then don't complain when all this rhetoric becomes lies just like you heard from the Bush-Clinton reign!!

Watching the debate if it was a debate i was undecided but i dont think we need a canidate who caint get along with there rivial Edawards is the only one i kno that didnt fight It will be funny if South Carolina went to him

Lets get one thing straight….We need change, and we need change RIGHT NOW!!! I dont care who thinks what…but WE as americans know that Hillary Clinton has already been in office for 8 years with her wonderful husband Bill Clinton, she can do 4 if not 8 more years. She has the experience! Lets just face it…Hillary Clinton has the knowledge, experience, etc…She will get done what needs to get done. Hillary Clinton..you are the best..keep up the awesome work!!! All the candidates have good ideas, but Hillary has the best! Dont forget to vote for the best candidate that you believe that can do the position. I know that Hillary Clinton can do the role.

Jeff from Jersey,

Thanks dude now if you could just vote for Bush again the world would be a perfect place, right? Lets see now, you've been praying real hard that God would point you to the correct Presidential candidate to lead America. You thought the answer was W. Considering the state of world affairs and the affect W has had on them, maybe you better check your connection.

Edwards is a natural born leader but any of these three would be better than Mitt or McCain.. Same old crap with either of those two and this country is sick and tired of the "Policy of Corruption" from the Republicans.

All the condenscending remarks against Barack??? We are in this situtation because those who have tried to lead have failed and will fail. This country has deep-seated issues and only God will be able to solve them……and believe me, he will……..

Thomas, what woman would you vote for? My guess is you can't think of one.

Obama helped his cause tonight. If there are still skeptics out there with regard to his electibility … you really need to examine yourself. Ewards put on a good performance but it's too late for him. Go future president Barack!!

Obama, needs to start talking real sense… he wabbles a lot… a pesident is a person that needs to take calculated positions all the time… not a person who takes position based on instincts.. its people's lifes are depended based on that decision… Hillary is the right person as far as we see… that has the presense of mind and calculate and think about the ramifications of the desicion…

The transcripts are deffinitly better than watching them. I don't care about the tone of voice or the posturing just what was said, asked and aswered. Based on what I am reading, Obama is a slick cry-baby who cries foul every time someone (read: Hillary) points out that either his facts are wrong or his record's slim to shady. He enever answered a question streight, he's a like a Hollywood Lawyer, brilliant, witty and all smoke and mirrors. The best line he has (which I always wait for) is "Oh, that's politics as usual." What can you say to that. Hey Obama…. "where's the beef?" So far all I see is a picture of a promise of a hopeful idea. I want substance. What specifically are you going to do for me? The voter? For my vote what do I get? Specifically? That's my question. I don't want tohear I get "hope" I can't pay my bills with "hope," I can't get medical treatement with "hope." Can we salavage something in Iraq with "hope?" What's the plan Obama? Give us a Plan!!!! Not a Promise!

To the California Med student … anyone who is black has suffered the indignities and pain of racism. Senator Obama did not have to live through Jim Crow or through the Civil Rights Movement of the Sixties to know what it is to be a black man in America. In fact, he is experiencing it even today during this campaign and from those who cannot see beyond the color of his skin or who base their expectations for him upon the color of his skin, or who persist in reminding us of the color of his skin, as the Clinton surrogates have done.

I do agree that race and gender should not be a factor in our considerations for the candidate we choose to support, but neither can we escape the reality of the challenge that both race and gender present in this unique campaign. America is being tested in a way it has never been tested before, and it is a test that can transform, one way or the other, the very consciousness of our nation for generations to come.

I Think Obama is sincere and eloquent. I can tell by the debate that he does not like non-professional arguments. With that said I’m so happy that he stood up to the Clinton machine. If you recall the election with Kerry and Bush, the reason Kerry lost ground and the election was because he did not fight back hard enough. You have to stand up and speak up and you must be heard.. The Clintons are very powerful people and you must stand your ground. In regards to the issues, Obama has always spoken the truth. He does not give you false hope. . Mrs. Clinton gives us false hopes…Look at her budget, she will drag this economy to the floor. . She’s too much of a spender period and that is refletive in her out of control spending budget shes bringing to the table. Democrats lets be very cautious!! In selecting our next candidate for the White House…The Clintons will tell you what you want to hear. I believe with all my heart as a respected member of society that we need fresh ideas and true vision in America and the white house, not the same old policies of yesterday!!! I did a fact check in regards to who will be the best to beat McCain, if he was to be the Republican front runner,
Borack Obama was correct when he said that the polls have him beating out John McCain. The reason stated was that people are tired of the same old people in Washington and also stated the one reason Mrs. Clinton will not win against McCain was due to her carrying too much baggage and also the trust issue was a main factor. People do not trust The Clinton’s.

One would not be prudent to "dodge" a question in a debate. Clinton seems to be the one to always "beg" the retort.
Were Clinton to win as president, would she have Bill by her side; say in talks with President Putin? I think not. This is not a contest of the ClintonS. It's an election of ONE person. Sure President Clinton should campaign for his spouse. But he should be wary of saying things like, "I never said 'bla bla bla' about Obama". For I firmly believe that if one of CNN's qualified audio engineers or better yet an FBI audio engineer would compare that "I never" with President Clinton's previous "I never had 'bla bla bla' with that woman"…. one would find in the comparison: the same "intonational frequencies" and the same "stress" levels; just as is a comparative practice during "lie-detector" exams. Such to say that the ClintonS are playing politics as usual. One accepting the "spins" of the other.
Granted President Clinton was a great President. And I really don't care about his "side" adventures. (Think it was too bad that he had to be "dragged down" by the whole thing.) He was a very effective president nonetheless!
My issue is his level of telling the truth to the American people OR spinning his own version of what he "meant". Furthered by the apparent "acceptance" of this spin by Hillary.
Curious that Hillary began "spinning" exaggerations and mis-truths, from the beginning of this debate. This reminds me of the one who actually does the behavior points that trait out in someone else and tries to "brand" them. It's evokes the phrase: "People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones." Or "Let him among you who is without sin, cast the first stone."
I grow tired of the "you said this" and "bla bla bla". Let's talk about who you are now and what you are going to do now. Stand accountable. Now. Walk the walk and talk the talk. Be a leader. Not a complainer. Be presidential. Be inspirational. Be convincing.
The leader here is clearly Obama.

I'm a first time, 20 year old voter. From what I hear from my friends, peers, and other young people, its ALL Obama!
He did wonderfully and stood his ground.
OBAMA 08′!!

Tonight was proof that a debate is often only as good as its moderator. So that CNN now anxiously creates its own bandwagon labelling the debate a "slugfest" demonstrates that the network is interested in sensationalized ratings, not the welfare value of much-needed information about the issues getting to the American people. If there was a slugfest, it lies in the hands of Wolf Blitzer, who not only failed to control the debate but also offered one of the worst questions ever: "Who would Martin Luther King vote for?" I want to know about healthcare, the failing economy and education. We are weary of petty politics, and CNN's debate management on all levels offered no respite.

As anyone knows, Barack always reasks the question and provides a good response but totally off the point, to a level that you forget what the real question is – When Wolf asks the question again to the next candidate, u remember again. He did not answer any questions direct – and I just think, if he wins, his talk is not going to be enough.

Bilary is a disgrace to the country. Anyone but them.

Once again, Hillary was the decisive winner! Go Hill!

Hillary has shown once again that she has the experience and knowledge to be president. Obama thinks he can just skate in on his "hope" theme and slick attitude. He never owns up to anything………he just gets defensive…….if he wins we will have another inept president that is full of sales talk but no real action…….really think his one accomplishment is that the deal he made for lobbyist is they are allowed to take a congressperson to lunch but must stand up….in my profession we cannot accept lunch standing or sitting yet he brings about this ridiculous bill as the big mediatior who did something for the American people. Oh please if this is negotiating then who needs him……..I'll take Hillary……..

Wow Edwards wins another debate. Wake up people,he is clearly the best choice to lead this country, for every day average americans.Do your self a favor,and vote for someone who will fight for you. Coporations have dictated our policies at every level of goverment, from here at home, and around the world. This kind of stuff has been going on for a long time, but a candidate like Edwards who will take them on, and fight for you, only happens maybe once in a life time. Keep Fighting On John!

Hillary looked awful when she showed enjoyment at taunting Barack. I thought it was kind of evil especially since she was deliberately distorting his record. Barack showed good restraint and answered her well; he didn't let any of her distortions raise questions in people's minds. I think Barack had trouble but he won the debate with her. And he was big enough not to go around distorting her record, which he could have done all week. My vote has been for Barack and still is – go Obama!

go hillary ! Pounce !

Hmm. I wonder how many "message board plants" are posting tonight? For those of you who really want to decide who you should vote for, don't be influenced here. It's ridiculous how Clinton, Obama and Edward's campaigns hire people to spread their propoganda by posting here. (The Republicans are guilty of it too). Don't fall into the trap of hoping on some bandwagon. Read and research the facts for yourself! Pull up government records, read each politicians' book(s), turn each politicians' website upside down. Don't get manipulated by the Pro Clinton, Pro Obama, Pro Edwards voices here. Be smarter America.

And CNN, let's see how devoted to fair and unbiased coverage you really are…

"Comments are moderated by CNN, in accordance with the CNN Comment Policy, and may not appear on this blog until they have been reviewed and deemed appropriate for posting. Also, due to the volume of comments we receive, not all comments will be posted."

I was a staunch Obama supporter until now, I don't know if I will continue to do so though. In the last week, I started to look more closely at Hillary Clinton and see her authoritative comments and some true class. Most of the comments from Obama are opportunistic.. If Obama's wife says "your crazy if you don't support my husband" it's "oh so cute" and when Clinton says anything in support of his wife, "he's being interfering and cheapening of the office of President" Where does it say that a President should relinquish his devotion and support to his wife. I have two kids in college, I got swept up in their sway to go Obama's way, I am glad I am seeing the light now, my older kid is turning around, she thinks she'll vote for Clinton, I am waiting to see if my youngest will see the light as well.

Hillary kicked some inexperienced butt tonight! If Obama [as he stated] doesn't know who he's running against, how in world will he be able to keep things straight in the White House.

I don't mind the arguing and "calling-out". All these candidates need to be able to stand the heat. I think Edwards and Clinton were far more confident, substanative, and presidential than Obama. He is just too empty of real substance.

People need to stop whinning about the "fighting". The media takes the weaklings too seriously. We don't all get weak-kneed with raised voices. As far as I'm concerned..we need some steel to really do the job.

If you want an example of how much of a liar Hillary is. look back to the part of the debate where she said Obama "said the republicans had better ideas." Obama corrected her quote by saying they were the party of ideas. Then she claimed she feels the same way but not in a sense that they have good ideas. she's agreeing with exactly what Obama said while contradicting it.

John Edwards is obviously a bright man with a message to share…Hillary Clinton and Barrak Obama's "slug-fest" was a waste of time and electricity and did nothing but demonstrate division and mud-slinging that the Republicans must love.

John Edwards = Issues Driven (I could live w/o the childish "he said/she said")

You go JOHN!!! : )

Edwards is a moron. I wish I never had to hear him speak again.

Hilary looks powerful; Obama looks shaky; Edward wants to knock some one out of the ring;

Obama is a weezel and proved to be a liar! Obama acts all superior when he has skeletons in his' closet–yeh tell us about the real estate deals too!
"Present" is not a vote.
GO HILLARY we need you–I will vote for Romney,Guiliani or Mccain if you don't get the nomination!

I "was" a die-hard Republican voting registered Democrat. This is the 1st year that I have ever found a candidate that is worthy of my Democratic vote. John Edwards is honest, forthright, committed, and a true American. I "DO" believe what he is saying and what he is so desperately fighting for… all of us Americans. After reading all the previous comments, I question why so many people don't really vote for who they believe in, I hear comments like, I'm voting for Hillary because she can win, or I'm voting for Obama because its time for a black president. Can someone tell me why we VOTE in the 1st place. I know that the person who I vote for may not always win, BUT I certainly use my vote FOR the person I believe in. Who I want to win, who I believe holds our values , needs, and aspirations in his/her hands. With the "junk" I hear from those of you who say, "I like what Edwards is saying, and I believe in what he stands for but I'm still voting for Hillary/Obama because they can win" … I say, you should all be ashamed. Vote you heart! Vote your conscience! Its no wonder we have had 8 years of 'BUSH' its because most Democrates aren't voting with PASSION for the person who holds the values we hold dear.

I say, let Edwards stand up for those of you who have the guts to vote with your heart, mind, and integrity and that's the only way we will have a Democratic leader who we can be proud to call the President of the United States. He is the only candidate (Democratic or Republican) that I trust, and that I'm not ashamed of.

John Edwards has my vote 100%. I hope, pray, and beg him to stay in this COMMITTMENT to become our President !!!!!

Clintion Talks about the issues, Obama is too green, edwards is a good vice.

Where did Hillary get 16 years of experience? Seems to me she has only been a senator for 7 years, where did the other 9 come from?

Go Edwards…I think he showed what's really important tonight

Jay January 21, 2008 8:43 pm ET

"Hilary came ready for this debate. This is where inexperience shows for Obama. Too bad!"

Too bad is right. Too bad you don't know how to spell your candidate's name.

The only one of these three who speaks to my needs is John Edwards. Most Americans have much more in common with Edwards than Hillary or Obama. Isn't there something about Edwards sincerety that touches your heart? I don't care about the polls, I'm voting for Edwards in spite of the media's lack of coverage, or maybe, BECAUSE of it.

I can't find a dent in Edward's armour!

Obama had no choice but to defend himself from Hillary's unwarranted attacks. She chose to take many of his statements and policies out of context instead of focusing on the issues. Obama responded to Hillary's attacks with thoughtfulness and clarity. She is divisive, shrill and the main reason the debate became contentious. I appreciate Obama's sincerity and believe he is able to bring people to a higher level of thinking about important issues. I am white and a woman and I support Obama.
Hillary's vote on the war shows her lack of judgment. As for all of her experience – she is a senator. What are these 35 years that she claims gives her the right to govern from day one?

Obama's right about one thing: keeping the focus on driving down costs rather than on mandating coverage for everyone. Without reigning in excessive costs, any national health insurance plan will be a continuation of disaster. People should also have the right to opt out of any health insurance plan while still having the right to buy into it…through subsidies for the poor if necessary. Forcing people to buy insurance, or anything, is a very questionable strategy that doesn't always benefit consumers. Obama's approach to health care is the most realistic and affordable of all the democrats' plans in my opinion.

A senator has not done anything but vote. All we have in this debate is three senators. They have not governed anyone!!! Why do they think they are qualified to be president of the US? I think we should vote for someone that has some experience actually governring people. Think about it.

I'm soured on both Clinton and Obama at this point. I'm going with Edwards.

Good job Obama!!!!

Same old politics! Mud sling now and then become "best friends" once the nomination occurs. This country needs a revolution. term limits to clean house and start with people who care about this country..not people in the pockets of special interest groups.

i don't know how hillary think her and bill will unite the party.and how they think that the blacks will unite behind them.i will stay home and not vote.then the gop's will win.it will be better then have them back in whitehouse.then they will have no one to blame but their self. i'm a black woman and i'll never vote for hillary, and i love bill beforeall this stuff.but i do think their time has pass.he blow it.

I was surprised to see John Lewis, a legendary congressman, who marched alongside MLK and was beaten in Selma, clap heartily when Hillary noted that Obama was representing slum landlords in Chicago. While I know that he supports Hillary Clinton, I didn't realize how avid a supporte he is.

That actually says a lot about Hillary Clinton. But perhaps it says more about Barack Obama. John Lewis is no sell-out so the fact that he would be so forcefully for Clinton is instructive.

About Edwards, its easy to act like he isn't into fighting and bickering, he has only experienced mild attacks. The Clintons have been attacking Obama and putting him on the defensive since he came from behind and took away Hillary's easy entitlement to the Presidency. They have thrown every smear and false accusation at him since mid-November. They've each done it personally on the campaign trail, their campaign has sent out false e-mails, they have had surrogates and campaign managers go on national tv and lie about him, then apologize to get the lies repeated again. Edwards hasn't been attacked to this degree EVER! So, Easy for you to say John! You can act like you're the only one who talks about the issues, but you have had a free ride compared to what Obama has been up against. Obama constantly has to defend himself and everyone calls it bickering.

Hillary plays good cop on national tv, while her husband throws his Presidential weight around against Obama! FOUL!

Im a black 50 year old American who thinks that the only candidate who is clear about how they would solve problems is Hillary Clinton. She is reaching american people withe substances and i would not belittle black people intelligence by saying that they would vote for a black candidate just because he's black. I like her stance on healthcare, even tho i already have good healthcare, i support what her plan, because it allows me to keep what i have. But its personnel with me because i have relatives who are struggling with this issue,
There should be a universal plan that covers all americans, I am an Iraqi veteran who also believe that we will have to carefully deploy from iraq, and that the iraqi politicians also keep up with what is happening in this campaigne, I also believe that they know the blank check will no longer be available. I also think that the so call surge can not go on forever, The only way to help Iraqis is to allow them to help themselves. I think Obama is a very intelligent individual, but, truely based on his experience, i think that it is not yet his time to run the country and think for a moment that Republican would side with him. Hillary. you are a fighter, so keep fighting,,,,We love you here in Washington State.

SHAME ON YOU REP. JOHN LEWIS OF GEORGIA FOR CLAPPING WHEN HILLARY WAS ATTACKING OBAMA, THIS MAN IS OLD ENOUGH TO BE OBAMA'S FATHER, YET HE WAS ENJOYING TWO PEOPLE GO AT EACH OTHER ! WHAT A WAY TO BE A ROLE MODEL TO THE YOUNG ONES

What an acting job by both Clinton and Obama. They are doing this to give the press an excuse to talk only about the Dems. In the end Obama will be Clintons vice pres. pick but they will lose to Mitt Romney. Or God help America.

Obama acts as if NO ONE should question him on his record or assertions. I think he showed tonight how thin-skinned he is and if he thinks it's tough now, wait until the Republicans get hold of him, should he win the Democratic nomination. GROW UP Obama. Everything is fair game in politics – you're not untouchable and no one is going to elect a president they can't criticize! Being Black doesn't give you a pass!

From a strong, BLACK American woman! GO HILLARY.

Obama For President!

I hate hillary all she does is criticize obama about everything and then when he tries to stand up for himself he looks bad but at least he didnt start it. and I agree edwards did really good.

I am so frusterated with Hillary Clinton. Talk about your record. Don't tell me that Obama liked the republican record of the 90's when he clearly did not. I am tired of the negativity. It reminds me of bush getting re-elected by defining Kerry as a flip flopper, and not by defining himself. If she is the democratic nominee, I will not support my party in the national election for the first time in my life!

Hope doesn't pay the rent.

Hillary Clinton won this debate hands down! She stood her ground on every issue and presented herself well.

It's clear that Hillary was off balance tonight. Obama has a far better chance to win against Mccain because while nearly all republicans and a large portion of democrats despise Hillary, there are many conservatives (like me) who can tolerate and will support Barack.

Gloria Jean you are a sad human being…go live elsewhere and take your Clintons with you….

Hillary did an excellent job of sticking to the issues and fought back hard – she will make an excellent president. Edwards did a good job too. Obama… has some explaining to do. Why did he vote present during the most critical votes in his states. He says it was political. Well… isnt that the kinds of politics he is preaching against?

There is NO difference in principle between Hillary and the Republicans, they will do whatever is necessary to win. All politicians do that to some extent, but Hillary has shown she'll sell herself to win.

OBAMA all the way!

Obama is being attacked and lied on by both Clintons and it's good to see him not take it anymore!

John Edwards is a man of integrity and his issues are my concern!

Cali med stud
Read Obama's book. He grew up in some pretty poor conditions, it wasn't the ghetto, but it was by now means as easy as Billary's growing up in the NW Chicago burbs (quite affluent).

Sorry but Wendy and Mary speak for yourself Hillary make me feel proud to be a woman!!!!!!!!

Med student you are obvious not a English major, grammar and spell check do work, don't they. Race is injected into this race now and only because of "The Clintons" notice how I say the Clintons and not Hillary. Its a shame that Barack has to fight against two with same last name yet this will only make things sweeter.

Go HILLARY! So proud of you! I hope you win. Although I would like to see Obama as vice president. I believe they are a nice balance and would do wonderfully as a team. I think he could bennefit more from being VP under Clinton. At this time I do not feel Obama has quite the confidence or presidential finesse…YET! He could gain experience, eloquence and become more presidential as VP for a possible future run for president. . HILL TO THE HILL!!!! I always enjoy a good debate! Keep it up!

I WiLL NEVER vote for HRC EVER….

She is the picture of VITRIOL!!!

I'm a republican that is very move by Obama. I think we just found our next President! There is no place for Dirty Politics, it can not win election any longer. Have we not learned anything?

kudos–HILLARY and John its about time where the common points can come together and point out the OBAMA not so experienced huh, huh, huh, comments on health care and the issues….Hillary–KEEP IT UP!!!

Bill Schneider you are INCORRECT.

Obama HAD to defend himself from all the lies….HILLARY and BILL started it and he was defending himself. Why don't you call a spade and spade and talk about the Vitrol that is called the Clintons and realize they are the ones spewing it not OBAMA and you say u are a political pundit….NOT!

I think Clinton just have t wait a little beat she is already the President of USA

Hillary won this debate hands down!

Jeeze I'm a total Dork! I meant Edwards and NOT McCain! Although, McCain beats the living C**p out of the othe Clowns the Republicans have pulled together.
Just my opinion…
B

This Obama-Clinton feud certainly made for good TV!
In all honesty, they are both engaging in old politics games and attacks here… No one should pretend they are above it, they all do it!
On issues, Clinton seemed to have her facts straight and well organized, certainly a lot better than Obama… I think experience is starting to show in her favor.
Edwards looked good, but not good enough.

Go Hillary! GO Hillary!

Hillary once again revealed herself to be nothing more than a disingenuous intellectual lightweight with an unpleasant demeanor. We need a president who has the intellectual capacity to actually and effectively articulate and defend his or her own policies, not serve as a mere mouthpiece for their spouse. Hillary showed once again tonight that she lacks those capabilities, resorting to scurrilous personal attacks in the face of Obama's superior intellect and understanding of policy.

Hillary voting in favor of the Bankruptcy Act and then saying she hoped it didn't pass tells everyone everything they need to know about her complete lack of fitness for the presidency. She's flipped-flopped on one thing after another, from the War to the economy, during her undistinguished senatorial career.

We need a candidate who can unite the party. Obama is that candidate — and to a lesser degree, so is Edwards. Both Obama and Edwards would be strong candidates. Hillary would be a disaster, especially if the republicans nominate McCain.

Wow what a debate. Hillary looked old and tired, obama focused and smart, Edwards well what can I say right on target. Still don't know who I would vote for.

Hillary was right on when she said her economic plan was to give money so people can pay their
gas bills, their electric bills, their childcare bills.

Just a few days ago I visited a disabled white lady in her mid 40's. Her house
was cold, and she said come into the kitchen.
As I approached the doorway, I could see she had all four burners going to heat
her kitchen. You gotta do what you gotta do!

At first it was George Herbert Walker Bush (Senior), then there was William Jefferson "Bill" Clinton,now we have George Walker Bush (Junior). Now Americans want to give Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton a chance to lead this great nation!!! .Not forgetting the importance of consistency in any field-in this case, a few families heading the highest office on this great nation, as a non-voter, i think that with the fresh obstacles facing America at home and abroad, we need new aproaches which don't have attachments or roots from previous power brokers mainly in order to gain confidence from Americans and the world at large.But then again that's just thinking.

I think people also conveniently forget that during those "Clinton" years, the Senate was controlled by the Republicans..

I would like Clinton and Obama to explain to me why we need middle men in health care. Their only function is to siphon off money, BIG MONEY!

Obama did great. I'm a proud supporter. Don't let anyone distort your record. It's time for a new kind of politics where we can actually get things done.

Hillary is not that person, she even said herself that the Republicans hate her, and now some Democrats like me are starting to be digusted with her campaign strategy. She will not win in November.

Obama will pull Americans together and that is what we need right now. The Dynasty's must end.

Go Obama

The GOP must have been grinning from ear to ear. The dems are eating their young.

I just have to say, as a woman, I have no respect for another woman who stood by and watched her husband's infidelity because she knew in the end being attached to Bill Clinton would boost her politically. Nothing she does can make me want to vote for her, not that I really think her ideas are that great anyway.
America is ready for a female president, but Hillary Clinton is NOT presidential material. She relies on her husband and her gender to propel her into the White House rather than presenting legitimate, feasible ideas to American citizens. She becomes emotional when she thinks it will work to her advantage, obviously missing the fact that at some point, every woman in America has pulled the same scheme over on some unsuspecting boyfriend or husband and so all women can see through her poorly executed "emotions."
We shouldn't be choosing presidential candidates because it's "time for a woman in office." We should choose a candidate based on his or her ideas and plans for America. Hillary Clinton's ideas for America are not feasible. Choose someone else.

i sure hope this race does not come down to race (or gender for that matter).
that is unfair to everyone including the candidates/

having said this, it is a pleasure to see the democratic party having two formidable candidates, a woman, and a black person….(not forgetting john edwards).

Does Obama have a platform, I heard his lips move but no substance…He looked rattled.

BILL should shut up, and let HILL do her own thing. Barack should not let either of them distract him from presenting the things that he stands for in this campaign.

Obama had extremely effective responsive to the Clintons' classically divisive political strategies. What a strong leader! Please do not be fooled by Hilary. She's a professional politician who knows exactly what she's doing….

I have recorded this debate, and as I am playing the beginning of it over and over I have to admit: Obama started it. No doubt. People, face it!

Hats off, John Edwards! Very impressive. Too bad I don't agree with you on so many issues – you would make a terrific president, if you believed in the right ideas. But unlike the majority of Americans, I can't vote for a candidate based on his/her charisma.

Association is not causality!

Bill Clinton is likely to have the same relationship to good economy during his period of presidency as I have to yesterday snow, both happened in our presence. In fact, what happens at the end of the presidency or immediately after it might tell more about what is the legacy really is.

The internet bubble happened right after Clinton and, sorry to say that being a non-Republican, 9/11 as well. Clintons, busy with their fight with Republicans in the last year in office (and before), missed many things.

Looking at how they finally got even a cool and friendly Obama to the level when he starts fighting back, they will continue fighting with the Republicans and things will not be done the way they should.

The best thing about Bill Clinton was that he was not aggressive, while Hillary appears to be. However, this is exactly what Republicans are waiting for and hope for to win the election.

i think it is time for the clinton's (and i say this because it seems two of them are now wanting the democratic nomination. hah) to stick to their own agendas. I say the exact same to the obama camp. Bickering will get you nowhere.

I will say this though: In Iowa, had Clinton won, Bill would never have had to do what he did in Nevada. Had Clinton recieved the Culinary endorsement in Nevada, she would have never had a problem with the at-large voting sites (in the end, more turned out to vote for her anyways).

Her husband will go to voters the day before and tarnish his image because he knows can build it back in the years after Clinton would get the nomination, and I agree that it is unfair for such a tactic to occur.

The Clinton's are ruthless, and though I do agree on some of her policies and such, I cannot say that camp is giving enough fairness to the obama camp.

It is because of that, that I would give a shot to someone you call "inexperienced." What he has tried to accomplished in mere years you had to do in the shadow of your husband.

Obama can talk the talk but the walk the walk is not there yet, maybe in 8 years.. Edwards needs to get out for now. Hillary is the smartest and really the most qualified.

Joe – ditto that! THANK YOU! Obama is genuine and will re-unite this country. And this is coming from a life-long republican about to change parties.

Obama knows African-American hardships better than anyone. Working with laid-off steel plant workers on the south side of Chicago gave him more of a hands-on understanding than any of the other candidates. He was willing to do the hard work at the ground level while Clinton was sitting pretty on the board of Walmart for six years. Clinton hasn't knows a day of poverty in her life. Raised by a single mother and his grandparents who were of very modest means, one could understand if he had decided to 'cash out' after college and law school. But he didn't, which speaks to his outstanding character. Clinton just wants glamour and power.

I wish they told us how they were going to solve our problems. I wanted to learn something. What I did learn was they basically do not like each other. In any event, Hillary was precise, Obama was dancing, and Edwards looked presidential but had little to say.

LOL…

I hate Hillary more every time she speaks, could you please nominate Obama so I don't have to vote for the Republicans again?

Wow! Finally Obama takes off the gloves, and goes after the misrepresentations perpetrated by the Clintons. Finally some passion, not to mention a great sense of comic timing! He won hands down!

Young America, get out there and vote this year. We need to take this country away from the Baby Boomers. Their generation is a failure. Generation X/Y, we are the future. Only we can save this country.

What Senator Clinton did to upset Senator Obama was cherry-pick from Senator Obama's limited past to find the least flattering things to say. It's a debate technique. It is also *nothing* compaired to what a Republican candidate will unleash on Senator Obama in a general election. Tonight was a disappointing performance and a poor representation of our party. I can only trust that the candidates will review the debate and improve.

It's not just blacks who are suffering in this country. Many hispanics, asians,
Indians, and whites are living the life of poverty. And many more American middle class people are falling into the poor ranks in America. The poor do need to have their needs fulfilled, jobs, education, health care, and housing.

Leadership is what will help move us out of poverty. Press on HILL!

I think that John Edwards is the most effective person on the stage who is running for President. He showed a deep understanding of all the issues. He wants to represent common people, not the powerful special interests. He does not accept money from the rich special interests. That alone makes him a cut above the rest! I suffer from emotional disabilities. Mr. Edwards is the only candidate who is running on a platform to specifically improve services for people like me. He needs to get more personal about his background and more people will vote for him. I am from New Jersey and will be voting for John Edwards in the New Jersey primary. I hope to get the chance to meret him to personally share my story with him.

As a DEMOCRAT and a WOMAN , I am very sick and tired of the CLINTONS and their tactics. They both seem to have no ethics or morality and will do or say anything to get back in the W.H. I have decided to vote for BARACK OBAMA , as I WILL NEVER VOTE for another CLINTON ,, AGAIN.. so FELLOW DEMS,,, VOTE OBAMA

Hillary is heart and soul, and speaks for all Americans, who believe in The American Dream. This country needs a WOMAN PRESIDENT. Someone who has dedication, loyalty, and who can bring peace and respect back to The United States. She can get the job done. The debate tonight, showed not only her strength, but her knowledge of political issues, both home and abroad. This election, is not about RACE. It is about what is best for our people and our Country, and which candidate would best serve The People of America. I believe Hillary is the one.

Question to those still posting:
There are no more then 20% african American voters in the coming election
There are about 55% women voters in the next election

Statistics show that obama loses to white voters in the Democratic Party,
IS HE ABLE TO GET THE VOTES from republicans!? I don' mean to imply racism, however i doubt that anyone heavily opposed to will make a vote for an African American President, in regards to Hillary i believe many will vote for her because she represents the pride and struggle that has ridden American women for quite a while know leading me to believe that she unlike Obama would stand a chance against any republican candidate.

If I had to pick someone to look out for my family's interests it would be Edwards.
I don't want Unity at all costs. We had too much Unity in March of 2003.
I want a righteous, fearless fighter for fairness.

SAM, I do remember the 90's Tech Bubble which crashed.

The current housing bubble reminds me of the 90s, in fact.

Makes me wonder. What will the next bubble be?

I shudder to think.

We need a President of Integrity. A Regular American. Down-to-earth. Moral.

We NEED JOHN EDWARDS!

We do not need another HAWK.

I really miss Joe Biden.

Clinton is the most viable candidate. She actually has substance, unlike the studdering hot air filled Obama. He is all style and no substance. He got rattled when she pointed to the facts! He does not have a clear stance on anything. When he gets cornered he uses hollow phrases to get back the crowd.

Hillary is just a smarter person and a more experienced politician and thats who I want running the country!

Hillary will put on a show again and cry in front of the cameras. Or she will have her husband stand up for her. Seriously, she is so fake. Obama is the only one that can lead this nation back to its glory days when Americans were respected and appreciated. We are sick and tired of our politicians talking too much and doing absolutely nothing when they get the power. Enough is enough.

Edwards should not even be in the race. He never even voted before until he ran for office.

Obama is a loser and so are his supporters!!! Oh John Edwards, you don't have a snow balls chance in Hell…time to exit the stage. Let Hillary do her thing… she will put this country on the right path! Vote for intelligent experience… Hillary in 08!

The HILL is a one-term Senator, who decided to "run" for the W/H just after she locked up her 2nd term… and after she ducked the question all the time… she cannot be trusted on anything except: that which she says she will do… that's the scary part!

LOBBYISTS AND PAC MONEY:

There is a HUGE difference between thousands of members of one profession donating $100s of dollars each and MILLIONS of dollars from one health insurance company.

How can Americans feel good about any universal health care plan if the candidate we choose is beholden to the insurance company.

AMERICANS deserve health care ASSURANCE, not insurance.

Only Edwards hands are clean!

Thousands of attorneys helping the little guys is NOT THE SAME as multibillion dollar corporations and AIPAC.

To Barb regarding your above comment about Senators "not having a choice but to vote for the war", which Hillary and Edwards did. Don't tell that to Senators: Kennedy, Leahy, Levin, Boxer, Byrd, Chaffee, Akaka, Graham, Levin, Reed, and about 15 more (plus Congressman Kucinich). They had a choice and now apologize for their mistake (and have apologized for their mistake on the bankruptcy (sic?) bill). No more apologies please. I like Rep. Kucinich's comment back when they allowed him in debates that we need a candidate who makes the right decision the FIRST time.

Go Hilllary…

You won hands down with your intellect and wit; Obama appeared undignified, angry, and unknowledgable.

Best of luck!

The Clintons' strategy may be to keep Obama off message this last week but Obama is more intelligent than they give him credit for. He's exposed why a lot of people (including some democrats) think the Clintons are divisive and why Hillary could lose the election for us in 2008. While trying to project a warmer public image underneath the Clinton's are manipulative and play dirty and Americans are sick of it! I was initially thinking of supporting her because of experience and didn't really see why people disliked her but now I do and am clearly in the Obama camp!

It is clear Obama lacks the knowledge and experience to be President. He comes across as very naive politically, and arrogant. He's clearly dedicated to civil rights and activism, and that's where he should put his passion to greatest use.

There are three candidates in this debate. And the idea is to show who will be the best suited as President for the American people. I noticed that the media focused mostly on the "show down" between Clinton and Obama…Edwards represented himself more as a President and sticks more to the issues that concerns ALL the American people. In my opinion John Edwards is THE winner.

Hillary couldn't be more outrageous. She takes all the questions and instead of answering them, she spins them around to make her simply look good and get the audience to cheer for her. What a tool.

Obama had absolutely every right to defend himself against the criticisms the Clinton's have been throwing around the past few weeks. They are constantly twisting, distorting, and plain flat out lying about Obama and his record. Although I don't think that he handled himself the best, but neither did Clitnon.

Everyone needs to remember where this negative campaigning began. It started when the Clinton campaign started making the false claims that Obama was a drug dealer. And then her attack dog….er excuse me Bill Clinton (who is NOT acting like a former president should, he's acting as if HERE were running for president) calling Obama's vision as a big fairy-tale.

Anyone voting for Hillary in the primary really need to think long and hard about all the major polls that state that 50% of the voting population would NEVER vote for her. She is the Democratic Party's largest liability in the general election come November. I know that I (a lifelong Democrat) will never vote for her, and no it's NOT because she is a woman, it is because SHE is the woman. The country IS ready for a woman but in my opinion she is the WRONG woman for this country. She is the greatest gift the Democrats could give to Republicans because any Republican (even Mike Huckabee, UGH!) will be able to beat her in the general.

Without a doubt!
Bill Clinton was wonderful! I would vote for him again any day! But he isnt running for office. His wife is. That does not mean things will be done his way?
She will be in all the meeting/dealings.

This will be clearly different. She is smart, she has most of the important things we need in a president. But have you read her books? His books? Were you watching in the 90's? They hated her! Who cares why and if they were wrong for doing so! They hated her.
They will do anything they can to distroy her! They did it once and its about to happen again.

Dont get me wrong, I will vote for whoever gets the ticket thats a DEM.
Lets face it, the truth is Miss Piggy could have done better then BUSH!

But the Republicans will play hardball. Dont forget we lost 2 elections, that we won?? They do not play fair. They will chew her up and spit her out.

However I want the canidate that can get the most done while in office.
That would be Edwards…………. maybe he would have one of the others for a vise, if they play nice : )

The Clinton's are corporate globalists and will say or do anything for power.

Just hear to let people know that Hillary Clinton did sit on Wal-marts board of Directors and was paid very well for it. She has also put a ton of Wal-marts money in her checking account then later returning it. Out of all she received from Wal-mart she only returned 500 thousand dollars. This is only bad because she like to talk bad about big corporations when she has a lot of them paying for her trips. Good job Obama for point that out. She will lose the race after she allowed Obama and John to out shine her and put her in what they call the spin zone. If you remember what a liar Bill was and Bush is and you think we have a problem with them vote for Hillary and wait and see what she is all about.
OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT
JOHN VICE PRESIDENT

All of the candidates looked worse in this debate than before. Senators Clinton and Obama spent most of the time bickering, which overshadowed any issue they were discussing, and poor John Edwards wanted so desperately to not be forgotten that he was basically raising his hand at times, pleading 'don't forget about me!', siding with Hillary on issues (where before he seemed to be poising himself for an Obama-Edwards ticket), and occasionally joining in the mudslinging. This debate did very little to support any of the candidates, or the democratic party for that matter.

I think Sen. Clinton will say anthing to win. Obama and edwards would be the best for the country and to win in Nov.

The public and the media need to take a closer look at the conventional wisdom that the Clintons were the champions of the African American community. They need to be challenged on several stances they have taken (or failed to take) that went directly against African Americans: 1) nominating Lani Guiner, a brilliant innovative African American lawyer and professor for Asst Attorney General but then withdrawing the nomination and selling her up the river the minute her views on proportional representation were distorted by the right wing; 2) conceding to the Republicans on their version of welfare reform without ensuring any safetynet for the poorest of Americans (the grave reprecussions which we're witnessing in the number of homeless families and children rising, food pantries running out of supplies, etc.) – and remember, Bill Clinton betrayed the Edelmans, champions of the fight against poverty ,when he did this – Marian Wright Edelman's husband even resigned from Clinton's administration in protest (supreme irony and hypocrisy then for Hillary to keep bringing up the Edelmans); and 3) Hillary's (and every Democrat Senator's for that matter) utter cowardice in refusing to support the Congressional Black Caucus when they were looking for a Senator to join their objection to the certification of electoral votes from Florida in 2001 on the grounds of minority voter disenfranchisement. So please, stop incorrectly stating that the Clintons were champions of the poor and/or minorities. It takes a lot of political courage to do that and the Clintons don't have that – only a disturbing sense of entitlement to be back in the White House at any cost.

I don't care if Obama is black, any more than I care that Clinton is a woman…
To me it comes down to who is best suited to take on the republicans and got some sanity and common sense back to the white house… Clinton has the experience and the attitude… Obama to me is simply selling fancy poetry-like words, with no clear agenda or ideas…

I think the Dems did a lot of damage tonight. Looked like bickering school girls instead of viable canidates for the Presidency. If any Republican loses to one of those jokes, then they should probably fold up the party. Kerry was a better canidate that Obama, Clinton, or Edwards, and he lost.

It's about time Obama called Hillary out on her dirty WalMart record and on having Bill serve as her personal attack dog. Good on you, Obama!

John quick question personal reasons? like breaking out in tears saying she doesn't want this country to break apart, do you really want someone like obama somebody untrained in the ways of washington at the beginning of a possible recession? the guy is selfish and does not know how to handle a political confrontation, if he did he wouldn't have thrown the first punch on Martin Luther kings day.

Let's put it this way. If Hillary Clinton is nominated, we will have another republican in the White House because independant minded democrats like myself will not vote for her. We will either not vote, vote for Bloomberg or vote republican. As sick as I feel saying that, I would be even more sick if I voted to put Hillary in the White House, whom I might add talks out of all four side of her mouth (can't forget Bill) and is actually has less experience politcically than Barack Obama or any of the Republican candidates. I also simply do not trust her as she too often sounds like a republican in the way she politically calculates her words.

I think Mrs. Clinton and Obama acted childishly and I think John Edwards showed his true colors. What was the need for Obama to continuously bring up Mr. Edwards whiteness? Was he reminding black voters they need to vote for him? Shame on Obama for pulling the race card. It is impressive that a woman, a black and a hispanic were all running but I will be impressed when race and gender and not even an issue and only the issues and the candidates stand on them matter.

I'm getting more and more disgusted with the tactics the Clintons are using in this campaign. Hillary's campaign thew the first stone well before this debate took place, and Obama had every right to address the comments that were made and defend himself. I'm sure the Clintons are hoping that the squabbling will continue and Obama's message of change will get lost in all the noise. I just can't listen to anything HIllary says anymore without thinking it's just a tactic to get back into the White House at all costs. I just hope this conflict between the both of them doesn't damage the Democratic Party to the point where it costs them in November.

Personally, I love the idea of an Obama/Edwards ticket.

Iam happy to read here that most people are seeing Hillary for the insincere untrustworthy person that she is…..and I think Bill is making a fool of himself! Obama will put intelligent people around him and get this country back on track.

I must agree that Edwards was the most confident, most informed, and most articulate candidate onstage tonight. When I watched this debate, I went in asking myself, "Which of these candidates truly inspires me?" Tonight I realized that that candidate is Edwards, far and way. When he spoke, I sensed his passion. To be honest, I saw a budding Bobby Kennedy…

Go Hillary!!! you are the clear winner tonight. Obama can not perform well without a script, but at least he is "present".

To vote for any candidate simply because they are likely to be the first Woman President,or the first African American President, is wrong,wrong,wrong.
After watching once again another "debate" I am more convinced than ever that John Edwards was the most reliable,focused & knowledgable canditate on that stage. Go John

Just a short but provocative comment in regards to bipartisan cooperation. Has anyone ever accomplished as much as bill Clinton has with the senate against him? I know this is about Hillary but I guess its not secret that he WOULD HAVE an impact on her, and be an excellent and most likely breathtakingly effective first Gentlemen.

It's disgusting to see CNN structure a no-rules debate format clearly designed specifically to turn this important dialog into a free-for-all between 2 candidates — presumably to drive up viewership — and to marginalize the 3rd entirely. Wolf Blitzer was a complete failure as a moderator, both for allowing such a travesty and for blatantly attempting — repeatedly — to prevent Edwards from having equal time in responding to questions or attacks. For the sake of objectivity alone, I would hope he is prevented from "moderating" any future such forums.

Yes, the HILL is quick, snappy, peppy, savvy, smart, clever, and prepared – just happens she's wrong for what we need.

Amazingly enough, people dislike HIllary. They show their dislike by emailing jokes about her, make rude comments about her, define her with rude definitions, etc. What I don't understand is what she has done to deserve such hatred… is it simply because she was the First Lady who forgave her husband for wandering off the beaten path? I just simply cannoth fathom why someone would dislike HIllary but more importantly, what is the root of the hatred???

Edwards won because he finally talked more about the issues instead of his father, the mills, the lobbyists and his liiiiife. Staying on those subjects all these months really hurt him. But he was a champion tonight – number 1. Didn't really understand his message until tonight.

Hillary was second because her knowledge and experience in government is oustanding. Showed herself to be a real fighter.

Obama was weakest because he was too hesitant too often. You could almost see him thinking through his responses before answering, except when he was on the defense. His debating skills are not on par with his oratorical skills. He needs a bit more work.

Who should go against McCain? Hillary will match him blow for blow. Edwards is second. McCain will bury Obama simply because of his knowledge and experience.

Obama next time. Hillary now.

Obama was right on target. Very honest, very staightforward.

I am so proud of this man. He should become president if we want to turn the page on discrimination, proverty, and the dynasy. Hillary speaks as though she was the president with so much experience. She was a first lady. Nothing more. She attempted to get her husband to pass a health care plan, and when it was struck down, she rolled over and accepted the money from the insurance companies. She worked on the board of walmart who has bullied american companies to take their manufacting plants to china or go out of business. Bill was successful in passing that bill (the Nafta bill). Go figure.

Blacks love Bill, but who are they voting for Bill or Hillary.

It is true that Barak does not take clear stand on issues, Not a clear leadership quality.

Congratulations John Edwards! You won the debate.

Voting Present in the State Legislature is Used as A Signal to the Other Party, Not As a Way to Duck the Issue.

“An aspect of Obama’s State Senate voting record that is drawing attention is his “present” votes. A present vote is a third option to an up or down “yes” or “no” that is used with great frequency in the Illinois General Assembly. It has many varied and nuanced meanings that, in the context of the actual bills, border on boring. It’s most important use is as a signal – to the other party, to the governor, to the sponsor – to show a willingness to compromise on the issue if not the exact bill, to show disapproval for one aspect of the bill, to question the constitutionality of the bill, to strengthen the bill. [Chicago Daily Herald, 3/10/04]

It appears that too many people are missing the point. Obama did not "throw the first stone" in tonights debate. The Clinton's have been throwing stones for the past three weeks. It was imperative that Obama challenge the lies the Clinton campaign has been spewing the past few weeks. It is political suicide to allow your opponent to fill the airways with lies and not respond, and with conviction. Tonight's debate was Obama's opportunity to set the record straight on the lies being told about him and his record. It is unfortunate that the Clinton's have decided to play dirty politics…and I'm so surprised Hillary has stooped to this level. It is also unfortunate that Obama has to waste valuable time, not putting forth his agenda but responding to the libel and slander from the Clinton campaign.

Hillary point about the Rezko case didn't have any leverage. How can you compare that case to WALMART. WALMART won't even give there employees full time hours so they can give them benefits. There's thousands and thousands of people working for WALMART living check to check that will never have benefits.

Edwards focused on issues tonight. But, it is easy to focus on issues if no one is attacking you. I think Obama was the clear winner tonight. As far as issues, I believe they all pretty much have the same positions. However, Hillary is a very polarizing figure. She has divided America in the past and is now dividing democrats. If she wins the nomination, I won't be voting in November. Four more years of republicans!

It's sad that we have candidates bashing each other, viewers bashing each other and people posting things bashing each other. Seriously, can we all just agree we want change. Change on the war, on the economy, on immigration and on protecting and taking care of the US first for a change instead of the rest of the world. I think mrs. clinton, mr. obama and mr. edwards would all do a find job in all of these matters. I mean anything can be better than the ramblings and gun slinging mentality of our current president. Lets please stop bashing each other, we all want the same thing…..CHANGE!

I am a centrist dem and I am worried a little…

Clinton represents the angry wing of the dem party that wants another shot at undoing all things republican,. no thanks. Not a unifying message and we dont need to slay GOP dragons for 4 years, we need to change the direction of the country.

I hear no talk of bringing independants to her campaign. No talk about working with republicans. I agree with many of Hillary's positions. But you can kiss almost all the independants goodbye in the general along with erasing the current advantage of dem turnout when the GOP gets fired up to turn out and vote against her. They are hungry for something to wake them from their party-without- a- candidate sleep. Remember, her likability is still in the red so to speak, where the GOP is concerned and only around 50% nationally.
I dont want 4 years of slaying 'those darned republicans', I want bipartisan ship. Anything else is just hypocrisy and perpetuation of the status quo, you remember, the opposite of 'change' where nothing gets done.
I fear if Hillary is the nominee it will be the 3rd 50/49% election that we lose. And as a dem, that is an unbearable thought.

I feel that Barack had an off balance night and he is going to have to get a better grip on some specifics to balance his eloquent style. He needs to get an answer for the 'experience' thing.
He always flirts with it but should just come out and say that he would consider independants and possibly even republicans in his administration. He needs to talk about people from both parties (and independants) he admires and why they may be good for lending their experience to 'add to his own' when he is in the White House.
People are hungry for change, but we have to be assured that any perceived 'greeness' of Obama is countered with the promise of a reasonable and inclusive approach and trust that the most experienced will always have his ear in his administration . He could start talking about what he wants in an administration, about 'how it could be'. About the wisidom of reasoned compromise. A new Camelot….

Obama clearly is the front runner. Edwards looks like a passionless weasle espousing empty ideology like "get rid of poverty in America" . Well it sounds good, but he didn't really articulate how he was going to about doing that. Hillary is wearing her old, tired, corrupt, self to the end of her political life in this election.

Karon- DO you honestly think Obama is going to represent the African americans well? He has never suffered the kind of sufferings you have listed? What makes you think he will solve all of the issues that you have listed?

As far as health care, it is NOT just african americans that are affected deeply by it. Many hispanics and asian american communities are also suffering from a lack of good health care. Yet, I don't think the answer is by voting for an African american president.

Proper health care, education, and equality should be something that all 3 candidates strive for. I'm sure Hillary or Edwards feel the same about improving these issues.

This is why I don't like when race and gender is mixed when we are evaluating and criticizing people for the most important job in the world. Stop using RACE as a mean for answers and hope!!!

Some of you, please watch the debate again. It was always Obama who brought the name "Hillary" out everytime the moderator ask him a question at the beginning of the debate. It was Obama who threw the first stone. And some of you are expecting her to stand there and getting hit without fighting back…. No, Hillary, stand up for yourself and the entire female race. You are one of the strongest and courageous woman I have ever seen. You go, Hillary!!!!.

Sam I remeber the 90's and yes they were nice years. Don't you know that in order to make progress you have to move forward and not backwards. Some of the policies of the 90's we are paying for now like NAFTA you see were that got us. Look at all the jobs that are now gone over seas and all the people that have been put out of work and that are still loosing jobs.

Obama's speech writers have their hands full after tonight! He can read and deliver a prepared speech but when it comes to an actual debate heis a total failure! Maybe it's like his votes on important issues, he's just not going to give any commitment. Hillary on the other hand can focus on any issue they throw at her and respond without all the stammering we seen tonight from Obama. I guess he will have to find another "leader" to defend him, spank the publics hands, and ask that we quit picking on him, let the debate leaders know they are not to ask him any tough questions. Even John Edwards ask about his not taking any stand on issues that were a no brainer to cast a vote one way or the other. How could we even consider him? 100 times he could not take a stand??? He is not Presidential material.

Obama is clearly the winner of the debate, and clearly the best candidate. Hillary sounded like a jealous mud-slinging teenager who would do anything to win a popularity contest. Yes, Edwards is awesome, but what was he trying to prove with the "I can win anywhere" comment! And then to try to suggest that the comment wasn't related to race or gender. We all know that it's going to be Obama or Hillary, and Obama gets my vote because I don't like Clinton's attitude, demeanor or her politics. Obama has some sincere ideas.

Things are certainly starting to heat up…
I frankly don't care much for Obama… He's got no real experience and so far no clear ideas on many of the main issues (Iraq, Social Security, The Recession that's looming in the horizon, etc)… He talks very well, but that's all he does well for me… not reason enough to be president.
Edwards looks much better, but we all know by now how he got his millions as a trial lawyer… So when he try to preach the other two about moral responsibility, I can't help but laugh out loud.
Clinton is hardly perfect, but certainly looks the most fit in all three, certainly she's the most ready to take on the republicans, kick them out and get some sanity and common sense back to the white house… She gets my vote!

At this junction of time in our history, we need a president that unite us. The challenge we face call for a president that unite the red states and the blue states. Our economic and international relations need deep understanding and inspiration above and beyound partisian politics. Hence, I submit to all the people this great nation that Senator Obama is the person to lead us beyound washington poltics. A new era needs, new thinking, the challenge we face call for united front of democrats, repuplicans and idependent. The person with the moral character, integrity, and capablitiy and skill sets for now and the future is Mr. Obama. We have a choice either to elect a president for the past or for now and the future. Let us chose the person who will leads now and for the future. That is Senator Obama.

What a debate!! Obama calm & cool rebuttling Hilary & her husband and Edwards, well he came off sincere and at times emotional about his home town. GO OBAMA!

Barack Obama has no experience and I am tired of the media being so hard on her. Whenever something is said positive about her, they always say sonething negative about her. This is who she should pick as her cabinet members when she wins.
President: Hillary Clinton
VIce President: Evan Bayh
Secretary of State: Mark Warner
Secretary of the Treasury: John Grisham
Secretary of Defense: Gen. Wesley Clark
Secretary of the Interior: Tom VIlsack
Secretary of Agriculture: Joe Biden

Hey People…Hillary has ALREADY been President one time…why not a "second term"? Our coffers were out of the RED for the first time in over fifty yrs, employment UP, economy growing, businesses thriving, etc…So hubby got some "action", he aint the only one, JFK had women on the side all the time, LBJ had an illegitimate kid while in office, we have had drunks and addics for VP's and First Wives…WHATS all this name calling? You all act like NO OTHER President or such has EVER done a wrong thing. Check your History. Presidents and such are human too, just because they get "caught", that makes them "horrors" of our society, yet ALL you that toss stones are by no means angels. Condon it? No, but I am human enough to forgive and say LETS MOVE FORWARD AMERICA. May the BEST candidate win….cause whoever it is has their hands full to straighten out BUSHES garbage that he has created. HOW he got revoted in beats me. Must have been a lot of voters in bed with the covers pulled over their heads AND EYES.

Wow!! I'm still undecided. I trying to decide between which candidate is the most capable to move this country foward. I had voted for Bill Clinton twice and Bush twice. I'm ready for a leader that will get something done!!! I believe that person will have to bring the country together and work "with" Congress. Bickering amongst each other won't get my vote and I suspect not the millions of others that are still undecided. Practically speaking I don't think Hillary can unite the country. She's still a lightning rod for controversy. For me it's down to McCain and Edwards.

What was so bad(other than the constant maligning from the"liberal press" never were any facts presented, just inuendo) about the Clinton years? My life is not better after 7yrs of Bush. It was better after 8 yrs of Clinton in the White House. Bush/Cheney has done what they could to take the government of the people away from us. Ever notice when Cheney talks about the USA he says Republic not Democracy. When they got in office they(Carl Rove) said we would see history being made and we did. First appointed president, pre-emptive war, no bid contracts, torture,redistricting in Texas paid for by Russian oil company, done everything to take away our government of the people by the people. Now John McCain who I believe is a hero, an honorable man, in1999 Carl Rove started a whisper campain against him stating (lies)Mr McCain was unstable because of being a POW and that he had a child out of wedlock with a woman of color causing the GOP to turn against him and go with dubyah. Every Republican canidate is talking war, they support Bushes policies. Romney said he has family values and that every child should have a mother and father. I say tell that to the 4000 war widows and widowers. I was a single parent, not a choice, I did not wake up one morning and say I want to be single mother, cool! Bush is right to life? How about the right to have a life! Our infant mortality numbers are as bad as third world countries, millions go to bed hungry. I talked to a teacher's aide, the funds for breakfasts are cut so much they have to turn hungry children away,there is hardly enough for a first serving. Anyone who is tired of the sob stories about hunger and deprivations has always had a full belly and shoes on their feet. Welfare for the wealthy is OK? I'm still waiting for the trickle down effect of this policy.

Wow. John Edwards won this debate by a mile. He was really calm, cool, collected and I loved his pointed answers.

I'm impressed that MLK III has publically supported Edwards' fight against poverty and calls on those other two candidates to do the same.

Sam:

Yes, I remember the good ole' Clinton days. I voted for Bill twice and have loads of respect for Hillary.

BUT. This country is too divided right now. We need someone who can cut across all of the political heartburn and get things moving again. Even if you adore Senator Clinton, you have to admit that the people who dislike her are practically rabid in their animosity towards all things Clinton. She can't possibly gain the coalition of support that she'll need to pass real reform. I beg you to reconsider your very valuable vote.

Mr. Hammdon,

It makes me hard to take your opinions seriously when you insinuate the Clintons are in any way "holding the White House hostage." Bill Clinton did more for this country in his eight years president since the FDR administration. Recovery and prosperity were the results of the Clinton presidency….the Bush Republican presidency is what destryoyed this country and what Bill Clinton did and from the programs Senator Clinton helped put in place during that time. There is no hope for this country unless someone like Hillary Clinton takes over as President…Obama will be too much of a controversial figure, Edwards will be too weak a public figure although I think his intentions are good. Our country needs an experienced leader…look what happened when a political figure with not enough experience was installed in the White House 7 years ago…Bush became president, and 911 happened and this country went into the dumper from there forward. Let's get smart people…vote for someone who can fix this place!

I'm a Clinton supporter, but I think, for the first time, Edwards looked good and got some great points across. Clinton kept her control, Obama looked like a big baby.

I think the debate was a draw. I am an Obama supporter. Edwards came off very well. Hilary needs to tone it down. I don't like to see the cat and dog fights. I mean Hilary and Barack. She seems to constantly initiate it. The all seem smart enough. Go Barack!!

Hillary attacks Obama almost every time forcing him to defend himself, therefore taking part in the heated exchange against his will. He either has to let the comment go unexplained or give up his time to defend himself against usually incorrect statements or quotes taken out of context. It is sad that as soon as Clinton becomes the underdog she has to resort to this kind of politics.

What is Hilary's plan that has been referred to in this exchange?. I don't think she has every articulated it. I give her credit for being very clever in answering questions by bashing Bush which leads people to believe she has a plan, but that is not stating what her plan is or what she is going to do. It was interesting to hear Obama and Edwards talking about what is good for America, what is good for the poor and how they will make change whereas Hillary focused more on Bush who is a has been. I've realized it has been Bush Bush, Clinton Clinton, Bush Bush….I do not want another old Washington of Clinton particularly after seeing how Hillary is having Bill do her dirty work so she can say "I'm on the stage, not him.". This country needs a fresh start so I have switched to Obama from Clinton after this evenings debate.

Boo Hillary….Hiss Hillary…..Boo Bill…oops, forgot which Clinton I was dissing.

Ironic Hillary served on Walmart's board (the richest company and largest employer in the world). Walmart is known for being ethical and right to its employees, far from it. If Hillary has the same values as Walmart, we are all in trouble if she wins.

Hillary was confused, just talking for the sake of talking. Again nonconsisting attacks, to be more precise lies. Good job Obama fighting against the Clintons.

Go Hillary, she hit hard on voting records of Obama. Come out of fairy tale, Dude.
You should do what you say !!

Obama has been trying to take the high road and the results were that people assumed that what the Clintons were saying was true. He had to take up for himself and correct the distortions.

The reason Edwards looked good is that Clinton wasn't attacking him. If he was a threat to her, she and Bill would be in a cat fight with him, too. He got to look good because he is under the radar right now, having won no states. Let him win one and he will have to fight Hillary also.

OBAMA IS TOO HONEST FOR THIS CAMPAIGN, WAS HOPING TO WORK WITH THE CLINTONS BUT THEY ARE REALLY TAKING ON HIM. AFRAID OF HIS POTENTIAL? THERE IS GOOD REASON. IT WAS IMMATURE YET WE GET TO KNOW THEM BETTER. WE ARE JUST WARMING UP!

just like what happened to kerry's political career after his botched joke, this gaffe by Obama will be the start of his downslide.

OBAMA 2008

Obama's health plan won't work. No matter how inexpensive insurance is, there will always be people who choose not to buy it and would tax the healthcare system regardless of their lack of coverage. I'd rather people be forced to buy insurance–BTW it's for their own benefit–than have the insured foot the medical bills of the uninsured because they chose not to purchase insurance and can't pay the bills themselves. Does Obama not know why our premiums are so high? Someone has to pay for the uninsured who legally cannot be turned away for medical treatment at hospitals simply because they don't have insurance. Universal healthcare is responsible and its proactive.

The 90s were economically sound–I'll take another 8 years of a Clinton White House. Go Hill!

Edwards took the high ground but in the end – Obama needed to show he would fight for the presidency – he needed to take on Bill Clinton and Hillary and did well – now he needs to withstand the next wave of attacks on specifically the 100 votes of present and thee cap on interest – I don't believe in a cap and it is not constitutional – by the way.

If Health Care is mandated, does that mean that with Clinton and Edwards plans, the hard working people of this country would have more money taken out of their paychecks, much like Social Security? How many people enjoy that?!

I wasn't even going to watch. But I figured I'd give them a chance. I should have gone with my initial instinct.

My first reaction came after the first question was asked:

Hillary was asked to say how much money each American would get under her stimulus package. Well the closest thing we got was "$620 — for those who qualify," never stating who would qualify. But this response was after a lot of nonsense from her. I turned off the debate then thinking "so this is what this is going to be like."

I did flip back to the debate. Hillary was demanding "straight answers" from Barack about his 100+ "Present" votes in the Illinois state house. I nearly fell out of my chair! Hillary wants straight answers? We don't get them from her. We didn't get them from Barack. At least we know where Edwards stands on things, which is why he's performing so poorly — because nobody wants what he has to offer.

So that eliminates the Democrats for me this election cycle.

Using the same methodology with Republicans: Romney? Gone. Guiliani? Eliminated. McCain and Huckabee? Same as for Edwards. That leaves one man: Ron Paul. The Democrats talk about getting out of Iraq, Paul will do it (and he'll keep us out of other places we don't belong). The Democrats talk about balanced budgets, Paul will do one better: pay down the national debt. Yup. Looks like an easy choice.

I was shocked by the attacks between Clinton and Obama. Althought it was nice to see Obama stand up to the Clintons. I can honestly say I never want to see that again. I am a Obama supporter and I hope he never stoops to that level again. I feel Edwards was the true winner of this debatee, because of Clinton and Obama. Obama still has my vote he just needs to stick to the issues and let the Clintons do all the bashing it does not become him.

Tonia
Louisville, KY

A great debate. It would be refreshimg to have a new Americe. I like Obama. He is real. We have had tooooo much of the same politice. This is America not the Royal Family. Bush Bush Clinton Clinton NOOOOO! Obama for a new America.

I was totaly disgusted by a remark made by one of your experts when he was asked how voters would react to a comment made during the debate his answer was ( I don't think it will effect how black voters will vote as they will vote for Obama
no matter what) I feel this was a diservice to black voters and was a racist comment.If a white person had said this about white voters there would have been no end to the uproar.I thought this country had moved beyond race based politics I pray I am not wrong,and to hear this on Dr. Kings birthday is a slap in the face to all he stood for.the real problem is not the black,white or brown vote.The problem is getting the people who run this country to understand they where elected to run it for the benefit of the American people. (thats all of us black white
yellow,brown or any other color…………………….

The sad truth of the matter is that the only people smart enough and savvy enough to be a Great President are far too smart to even get into politics in the first place.
Politics by it's very nature,makes candidates running for office,unfit for the job by definition.They have ALL bought into it right from the very begining and no matter how much ANY of them deny it,the minute you take any office you are beholding to the machine and the system no matter how much you deny it.You already "owe" the machine something because in some way shape or fashion "they" helped get you elected and not just the voters.

Quite apparant Hillary won this one. A true leader who knows what is going on and won't put up with it!

I think the Clintons love political games. They started revlving up their attack after Obama won in IOWA! For me, that strategy is a turn off.Because it tells me that the Clintons want this out of a personal motivation than out of a deep concern for our country. It was nice that Obama came out defending himself. Besides, shes always said "I" in her campaign.. Ladies and gentlemen. She's in this for personal reasons.

Since most of the people here are either Obama or Hillary campaign organizers posing as bloggers…..I just have to say as a geniuine life long African American democrat, that I am appalled by the behavior of both "leading canidates" tonight. I am not voting for either Hillary or Obama. My vote will go Republican this time around, because they are the only ones talking about the issues.

The heated exchange is just fine. Maybe more
like a real debate than an infomercial. Better to truly
debate point after point, though.
If you've heard the peavish and classic remarks of Bill Clinton this week, (Chelsea heard the vote tampering evidence in a NV hotel hallway? Give ME a break!) Obama's statements were not at all out of line given a national forum in which to respond. He didn't toss the first stone, he tossed it back.
The Clintons always coated in teflon and the collective amnesia of all who were around during the Clinton administration, is what I find troublesome.. Bill Clinton cheated, lied to the American people (and his wife) and perjured himself. He was also disbarred. (Remember THAT mess, everyone?) And we still give him cred? Barack Obama has to explain the truth?
Good grief. Bill and Hillary are phonies and blatant chancers. (I refer to them as
"the Grifters". )
And when are the silent feminists going to say that they want
a female president who can get if for herself. Not have to get the hubby to, as Peggy Noonan beautifully put it, "go and yell at the neighbors for her"? Wants to be leader of the free world and still leans on the spouse? Who is running indeed. Could you see Margaret Thatcher dragging out Denis everytime she needed to strike back hard?
Tell Bill to go play golf or cruise the pool at the hotel and be QUIET. But she could
never manage him either. Oughta do great with Putin, et al.
Fired up debate-great year for politics. Hopefully the winner will be-US.

Edwards seemed about the fray tonight. Hillary was shrill, as she always is when she gets mad. I hate her sense of entitlement to the presidency. It isn't her "turn" to be president. Barack may be too much of a gentleman to be in the dirty business of politics and run against the Clintons and their machine.

It seems a lot of people think this debate was "ugly" and divisive, especially regarding Senators Obama and Clinton- I couldn't disagree more. I saw the remarks thrown back and forth completely warranted and helpful to me personally on clearing up the slew of "he said she said" politicking that has preceded this debate. The debate moved toward real policy disagreements between the candidates and I personally found Obama's statements regarding problems with health care and Iraq to be the best.

Does anyone remember the 90's and how well this country did economically? For those who don't want the Clinton's back in the White House ~ you must not remember them or you are a republican – they don't like the Clintons by nature. I bought my house and so did most people I know and we still have them because we have conventional morgages. I think Obama will make a great president in 9 years. It is time for Hillary to go to Washington and put this country back on track!!!

Wake up people! — do not let the media decide your vote. It is blatantly obvious that John Edwards is the true leader of the 3 "candidates", and would be the best candidate to beat any of the current crop of Republican losers.

Vote your conscience and do not let the media hoodwink you into an artificial 2-person race. Keep in mind that the media is heavily financed by many of the same special interests that J. Edwards will directly confront.

Go Obama!!!

Go Hillary! What a great bunch of comebacks. We want a Presidents with lots of knowlege and can speak well. America has so much to look forward to, you will get so much done! Go Hillary!

The One TRULY Presidential Candidate was John Edwards. He was right in 2004 and he is still Right (in a good way) Today. I will sleed soundly with John Edwards running the show. Can you say the same about ANY other candidate?
God Bless us ALL,
B

John Edwards was the clear winner tonight! He showed character and class. I wish Wolf focused more on John because he was the only one that had anything worth saying. Hillary and Obama were so unbecoming…to the point of embarrassing. Their petty acts of immaturity belong on the Jerry Springer show.

Obama reminds me of George W. Bush the way he rolls his eyes and whines.

I don't think Hillary or Obama have a chance of beating any Republican. They'll lose the vote of Democrats because the devil they know is worse than the devil they don't know.

I have supported John Edwards from the beginning…from voting for him for Senator in North Carolina to his run for Presidency in 2004. He looks better and better every day and I hope the rest of America start to notice him.

I know drama sells in the media, but the bias is not fair to the American public. Please give some air time to John Edwards. We don't need any more drama….we get enough of that from Brittany Spears.

All 3 politicians are great in stirring rhetorics, but I do hope everyone across america can bypass their tactics. WE need to evaluate their past records and observe the accomplishments they had contributed to this country.

Barack- He is cleary inexperienced and fickle about his answers. I do not want to elect another BUSH!!! He might be great with attracting new voters but is going to be a great leader? Honestly, if you observe his past records, you will be dissapointed. He may be a great person but it DOES NOT mean he's going to be a great president.

Hillary- She certainly has flaws. However, she clearly has the experience and has made great accomplishments despite having failed a couple of tasks while Bill was in the White House. Every time we see her speaks, she exhibited clear, thorough plans of what she will be executing once elected. She obviously knows her stuff very well.

Voting someone who does not have solid plans or even a great past records is highly risky. I just think everyone should evaluate candidates based upon their merits and NOT color or gender!!!

With that, I hope HILLARY will win the presidency! You cannot assume she will perform like her husband. As for her excess baggage, it is getting annoying that people are still trying to discuss them. NO POLITICIANS in this country is clean and flawless. Wake up everyone!! You pick based on who you think would get the job done!!!

For me this narrowed the crowd to 2. Hillary dissapointed me in her Republican like attacks on Obama. Both Obama and Edwards kept their vision on the issues. I am voting for a president, not a manipulator. But nice to see that they all argue who is more of an advocate for the poor – a debate that we'd never see in the GOP debates!

We may need a woman president, but not THAT woman.

You try fighting 2 opponents: one in the ring and another on the side.
Besides, if Hillary wins and is president…pressed down with the weight of the office and Bill continues in his fillandering way. What will she do then?
We will all be in trouble.

Everybody would be a better President than Bush jr. The question is who do we want to turn the page?
Rodham-Clinton = Super-elite culture, history, and status–>same ol' jack
Edwards is passionately good…
Obama is inspiring, smart, and in love with his wife…
As a 29 year old, I am reminded in myself of what 1968 must have felt like before RFK's assasination. Clinton kills that dream for me. Edwards wants the dream. It seems like Obama is the one who has lived it. Maybe that's why he is able to rekindle whatever fired died in 1968…

Can someone please explain what experience has to do with anything?

Arguably the greatest president, Abraham Lincoln, had no experience running a state or country. It's about compassion and bringing people together.

Hillary needs to act like a leader and stop finger pointing. For the past few weeks, we keep hearing about her husband and her supporters making false claims. She needs to stand on her own two feet instead of relying on people's memories of the 90's under her husband. Bill is NOT running. Hillary is.

Obama can truly remarkable speeches, but now he's stooping to Hillary's level.

Edwards may be the only chance. Every single debate, he's acted like an adult and given concise answers.

I started a Hillary supporter. Her actions forced me to give up on her.
I switched to Obama. Now he's losing me because he's acting like Hillary.
Guess my only hope is Edwards.

Obama says he wants to stay away from old style dirty politics, yet he was the first to go on the attack, the he cries foul like a a baby… Grow up!
I also find it really laughable how he complains about Clinton questioning his record and his plans… I don't care how well he can talk, or how many big words he can fit in a sentence to show us how ivy-league educated he is!!! So far, he's only good at talking poetry to the people: no real plans or clear ideas on what to do… He's got nothing!
If he wins the democratic party nomination, I am voting republican, no matter it will be… We don't need another no-experience president in the white house… We all saw where that got us the last time around!

Looks like Obama isn't as smooth or eloquent without his pre-written speeches. Obama totally faltered tonight in his round about way in answering questions. More and more, it's becoming clear that Obama is full of rhetoric and no substance.

The debates are starting to get ugly and it's becoming clear that Hillary will be able to withstand the Republican smear campaigns better than Obama…he won't be able to handle the Republican heat!

The real fact that no candidate has spoke of is that Bin Laden is actually winning a war to destroy the value of the US Dollar and America's economy.

A money war that George Bush promoted through the media until he could garner adequate public support that he could survive politically, has created more inflation within America than anything we have experienced in the past twenty years. Leading America into a war based on "weapons of mass destruction" has evolved into a media campaign using weapons of mass distraction to cover up one of the most deceptive acts of a President in American history.

The value of the dollar at the gas pumps has been dissolved to about 40 cents compared to only 7 years ago. The price on everything from groceries to automobiles are being inflated daily under an excuse of escalating delivery costs.

Bush has doubled the National Debt in the past 7 years from $4.6 trillion under Clinton to $9 TRILLION today. This is $30,000 of debt for every man, woman and infant in America.

This unprecedented increase in debt means the value of the dollar has again been dissolved to half the previous worth. If you are not earning three to four times what you were prior to Bush you are in serious perils believe it or not.

I want to hear these candidates for President speaking about a solution to this economic condition that is bound to bust into a serious depression this term. Can any of people seeking the Presidency resolve and arrest the curse of the economic condition Bush has left us?

As an impartial African American voter. I take pride in the fact Obama is running for President. However, his constant focus on change and clean politics lacks substance to me. I want details and specifics. Tonight he gave some specifics and his specifics seemed to lag behind Clinton and Edwards in efficacy. I liked Edward's sincerity and attention to details tonight more so than the other candidates. Clinton's connection to big business concerns me. Before tonight I was 1) Clinton 2) Obama 3) Edwards. After tonight I am 1) Edwards 2) Clinton 3) Obama. The only thing Obama lacks is experience, but experience is crucial in these critical times.

I love watching two adults argue with each other like young teenagers Edwards was the only adult and he should be the referee. I also think Clinton needs to learn when to let things go and move on. i agree with Obama that it is hard to tell who of the Clintons' is running for president. instead of a debate their should be a celebrate death match. (no one dying in the end though)

Obama and Hillary are terrible candidates as they are only interested in themselves. Neither one would be a states person this country needs.

I watched the entire debate.

I am proud of Senator Clinton's performance. In less than 60 seconds Senator Obama called Senator Clinton and former President Clinton liars, and insisted they have no record to defend; either of them for their entire lives. Now some bloggers here would have Senator Clinton not respond at all to these charges. What a load of crap!

If someone calls you a liar, and you are not a liar, you defend your word! Is Senator Obama and his supporters saying that Hillary should "keep her place", and "not question what a man has to say"?

Those days are long gone, and thank God for that. Senator Obama needs to get with it, anybody can be elected President and free speech is alive and well.

Yes, Virginia, a woman can be elected President of the United States!

I liked Obama more than Hillary going into tonight, but he didn't answer any questions. He just used firm tones. Edwards is the clear winner with an A. Clinton and Obama come in with C- each because they did not debate what the country cares about. The one key non-issue was Barack voting Present. That just shows he's a POLITICIAN. He's all about image, not about what's right

I think Wolf needs a new job. He is a terrible facilitator! Clearly the american people are paying attention to the issues. We don't want to waste our time with watching non issues between candidates. However, as always is the case, the press prefers to inflame rather than inform. I can just see the headlines tomorrow. Look at the headline for this blog "heated back and forth" why not state the obvious. Reactions to the Debate.

As a young twenty-something year old taking this election seriously, I was NOT impressed by the bickering of Obama and Hillary. Edwards came out on top!
FURTHERMORE, BILL STOP FIGHTING YOUR WIFE FIGHT!!!!

Obama is right to be upset about Bill Clinton criticizing him and getting all the publicity doing it. Who's he running against, Bill or Hillary? If she cannot get elected on her own, how can she be president on her own? Or will Bill be president again, something not allowed in our constitution.

Clinton is smart, polished, socially-conscious, (a woman!), etc. etc.

And half of Americans can't stand her.

Clever Democrats – how can she be The Candidate?
If she wins, what do you think will happen the four years she is in office?
Do you think any Republican will work with her? Seriously?

We CAN NOT AFFORD another four years of sniping and polarization.
You can think that Hillary is all that and a bag of chips, but vote smart. This isn't just about getting a democrat into office. We need someone who can gardner support from across party lines and mobilize the American people. The reality – however unfair – is that Hillary can't do this. Obama can.

I agree Michele.. As a Black Man I cant take to much more of that myself. Bill used African Americans to get to the white house cant find to many things that he really did for us as a people oh he his advisors encouraged him to apologize for Slavery. Precious Bill sent troops to Bosnia when are the people in Rowanda was crying for our help. Ooops they happen to be black… Millions died check out Hotel Rowanda…. Every attribute that many contribute to him being black is negative he smoked weed, cheated on his wife and thus he is being compared to a brother.. We are so close but so far…. sad win pillow talk with your husband credits you to run for senator in a state and then run our country… By the way, Senator Edwards poverty is mental ….Jesus said the poor will be with us always.

Time and time again, John Edwards comes across as the most knowledgeable candidate with the best ideas for undoing eight years of Bush-Cheney and the mess they've caused… and time and time again, the circus act that is the Clinton-Obama feud takes center stage. I've been essentially undecided until tonight, but Edwards' eagerness to talk about issues and helping people while the other two squabble like school children has put me squarely in the Edwards camp (for what little good it will do).

Hillary! was absolutely demolished in this debate. Obama was spectacular. I am convinced that a Hillary! nomination would be in effect handing this election to the GOP. Obama demonstrated the conviction, courage, and resolve necessary to win in November. There is not a doubt in my mind that he would be the most appealing and formidable candidate to oppose the GOP.

Hillary! can't win. Obama can.

Edwards won by far. He looks so convincing and Presidential!

I wish media would be more informative about Edwards instead of deciding for us between Clinton and Obama. Edwards is clearly more presidential and above the two other children in the debate.

For people who think it was Obama doing the attacking, they obviously have not been listening to the Clinton smear machine that has been working overtime before this debate. I used to like Bill Clinton and abhor his wife…the feeling is starting to be mutual.

Let me remind everyone that John Kerry lost his presidential bid partly because he didn't fight back against untruths that were spread about him. Obama has every right to defend himself and should … as he did. The Clintons are a powerful couple but let's not forget, you are not voting for Bill Clinton but for Hillary Clinton. Hillary is quite capable to take care of herself. At this time my wish would be that the media would let go of emphasizing gender and race. I couldn't care less if either candidate was green or purple! Isn't is about electing the next president than can transcend those differences? Stick to the issues and the voters will be able to make an educated choice.

I read a comment ,that Edwards could not carry S.C in the last Presidential Election. That's true. S.C. was in to big hurry to vote for what we got now. -BUSH- Maybe you will THINK this time. Please don't make the same mistake VOTE JOHN EDWARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Berniece that is disturbing! When you are running for President, you represent AMERICA, not just African-Americans!!

I don't even understand your comment. How else would he see himself in America OTHER than black?

You are WRONG if you think that he does not feel the prejudice and injustices of this country! DESPITE that, he is running as a candidate who wants to unite us all. He wants the dream of equality, justice, and liberty for ALL.

On this day of all days, VERY DISTURBING. Did you forget what Dr. King wanted?

The things that is is fighting for DIRECTLY affects African-Americans. Who is suffering from racial profiling? Who does not get appropriate/affordable healthcare? Who does not get an adequate education? Whose children are far behind when they start school? Who has the highest unemployment rate? Who has the highest population of prison inmates? Who is attending college less? Who lives below the poverty line? AFRICAN-AMERICANS!!!

I dare you question his Blackness!! The black comment was not necessary and very inappropriate. As President, he has to represent all of AMERICA!!!

If you can't take the heat get out of the kitchen, Obama. Stop your whining. If you're the real deal you should be able to take on Hill and Bill, just like Hillary has taken you and Oprah on. I'm voting for the most qualified, experienced and mature candidate who happens to be a WOMAN. You go, Girl.

I was very disappointed with Hilary’s lack of character tonight; her predatory manner was distasteful and not the direction that the country needs to be moving towards. Her body language clearly spoke to the disdain and superiority she seems to feel towards Obama. I really don’t think that she anticipated such a competitive race; however, the reality that she is facing a viable opponent has shaken her false belief that this campaign was going to be a walk through the park.

Everyone knows Obama is on top of his game. Hillary appeared broken and tired. Most white voters see it, but they would rather keep things they way they are, (at the risk of their childrens lives and futures), than see see past the color of skin. And that's a shame.

People need to wake up and see that Edwards is by far the best CANDIDATE for the Democrats. Republicans and Independents want to have change, I have so many Republican friends (I live in VA, a republican haven) and they are all tired of the Republican crap. But we have to look at issues. Edwards is the top candidate that knows the issues and is not just riding on celebrity status.

Let's face the truth too, their aren't many Republicans that will vote for Hillary, Independent men will not vote for Hillary either. I hate to say it, but I know that southern white independents and republicans (and even many white democrats) will not support Barack Obama. I would pray that he wins (if he wins the nomination), but it will not happen.

Key word is electable: Edwards…it's too late though, and too bad that the dumb, apathetic american public probably didn't see one bit of the debate. I would bet that less than 4% of the country saw tonights debate.

I was very impressed by Obama. Hillary has been making comments off stage for the last week or two that needed to be addressed. He went at her head on and corrected every accusation she made. I think some people have confused "whining" with fact checking. Something America badly needs.

I hope Obama wins the nomination because any Republican candidate will crush him after one punch!! I am voting for republican after watching tonight's debate.

Actually, I take that back. Upon review I noticed that Hillary was taking stabs too, and even Edwards did some too. Obama pulls it out in the end. Obama is making me rethink my choices.

Hillary Clinton no way-I've been a Dem since JFK,She wins- I'm going independant.Obama,recalls a young Bobby K,Edwards is a good man-Anything but more Clintons or Bush's. to divide us- all including us, Dems.Thats what that two-face H will get us.-Our foes aren't on the outside its here ,like Rome-On the inside .People with low IQ's or worked so hard they can't see what and how they are destorying America.Clinton and another Bush will end us -not from without but within.Your choice?But like Cass.who saw Troy destoried your all too stupid to listen.Edwards,Obama,your family dog would be better.Then another Clinton or Bush or B light.Clinton vote her kiss your country good bye and your grandchildren because they won't be here,but either will we.Your fault!Only warnings,called crazy.That's till Troy fell.Only warnings,Scare tactics-no-what will happen.Tell your preachers to pray for our very souls.God has no country.

God daughter of William C. Westmoreland
who loves her country.

As a one-time Hillary supporter, after watching the past 3 weeks I am now in the Obama corner. Her campaign's inability to factually dispute Obama and only attempt to reduce his character is troubling. If she is the candidate, I can only hope Bloomberg runs or I will not exercise my right to vote.

Obama and Hillary are acting like two spoiled brats who DO NOT deserve the nomination for President. At this point, there is not any Democratic or Republican candidate that is capable of being a states person that would bring unity to this country.
Thanks

Why does Obama need to drag Clinton's name in every argument he makes?

As a life-long (age 74) registered Republican, I've watched every debate of both parties, to try to unscramble the canidates and their potential to lead the country. Interesting how all three remaining major Democratic wannabes seemed to essentially "concede" the Republican nomination to John McCain tonight. McCain is a good and sincere man, but he has too many negatives working against him…particularly his decision to stick with Bush on Iraq.
Clinton, Obama and Edwards are all qualified, but the bickering seemed to get a bit out of control tonight (considering how they'll have to come together and present a united front once one of them has been nominated.) I felt John Edwards clearly "won" tonight, but he's probably headed for another third-place finish in South Carolina. With so many undecided voters nationwide this year, he's clearly at a disadvantage, having to run against both Clinton and Obama. In my opinion, he'd beat either one of them in a two-person race for the nomination. As it is, if he stays in the race, he'll probably still wield some clout at the convention, but I don't see how he could win the nomination barring an out-and-out split between the other two.

Funny that people are getting on Obama for actually thinking about his answers. Regurgitating campaign info seems to be in style.

Obama is now playing the victim card and wants to have it both ways .. .complaining about going up against two Clintions and the press coverage for President Clinton's remarks. Its disgusting, given all the coverage he gets (more than any candidate in both parties and most of it positive). To praise Ronald Regan is a new low for any Democratic candidate, even for Obama. He is the modern day machiavelli!

I was a huge Hillary fan….and cannot stand Obama..but after tonight…I am starting to think that John Edwards has more class.
It was funny to watch the two front runners duke it out while John Edwards gets his message out.

Obama was AMAZING in that debate! I'm glad he addressed the Clintons so we could shame them into finally get down to actual policies. Why is Hillary afraid to run on policy? Edwards kicked it up a huge notch, too. I was really impressed with him.

Same folks posted dozens of times yet my two cents is still awaiting "moderation" which seems to have become a synonym for censorship.

Obama is a "have never done anything" and no matter what he promises he never will.

Edwards is a "I have done nothing but run for office my whole time in government" and is a "professional candidate" who has never done a thing either.

Clinton at least makes the mistakes that come with actually trying to DO something.

These other 2 have consistently made the mistake of never trying and THAT is the second worst mistake there is.The worst?Voting for either one of them!

barb
what Obama meant by voting present is that if a bill needed more work it could only be sent back by voting present. For or against would either kill a bill or pass it but it could not be retooled. That is why in in the ILL Senate he voted present.
that is why any senator in ILL would vote present.
Hillary knows it too. She is a liar and a distorted the facts. Obama said as much when he stated the press had looked into those votes and reported on them.

Before tonight I leaned towards Hillary, (experience, pedigree, best candidate for the job). I considered Obama because he is a real change from the norm. After tonites SC debate the only truly PRESIDENTIAL candidate seemed to be John Edwards.
Obama and Clinton at each others throats reminded me of an atmosphere that was prevalent during the nineties when real issues were being discarded over petty politics and personal sniping. I want someone who reads well in the New York Times, not the National Enquier. Time to step up Mr. Edwards, rise above the din and be counted.

Go Hilary, you have what it takes (with or without Bill)! Obama needs more time serving the people as a Senator before he takes on the most important job in America!

Edwards only appear that way because he is really not in the conflict. Common sense would tell you all that. He has no substance and Hillary will never be the president of the US> Obama is destined.

Hillary did what unethical lawyers do. She took partial truths and presented them in isolation the whole debate to try to make Obama look bad. For example, associates do whatever work the boss gives them so that whole issue about him working for a slumlord is bunk. He does not accept PAC money, she does. His getting individual contributions is night and day from being influenced by big PAC money. Her whole style is unethical and not what we need in a leader. She is orwellian in what she would do to the private sectotr Freezing mortgage rates for five years. Please..what about freedom of contract. Obama's position is much more nuanced and makes less of sound bite. Why should speculators be saved. Here in Miami, it is mostly speculators and flippers who are getting burned and deservedly so. Obama does not misrepresent records like the Clintons do in their zeal to recapture the white house and give their flawed marriage a raison d'etre. Edwards is a mere nuisance at this point and is not viable and needs to get out. Obama is the clear choice for the thinking class that wants to live in a democracxy with freedoms and not be dictated to. This all comes from a Miami trial lawyer who was uncommitted until tonight's cnn debate.

Senator Clinton started teh debate with a very articulate and to the point answer and if you saw Senator Obama's opening statement it was jumbled and disoriented. He couldn't even comment on MLK's Dream speech correctly. He had trouble getting the woeds out and he did not look professional. It was very shortly after that he threw the first punch to start an arguement to distract from his inability to speak to the issues. And frankly I, like Hillary, are tired of having to tip toe around Obama. When Hillary challenged Obama she was booed so how do you have an open honest debate when standards are set so you are unable to challenge a candiates issues because then your accused of playing the race card. And John Edwards did make a great point that Obama picks and chooses what votes and snip its from comments he wants to use. I am proud of Hillary for finally standing up and treating Obama like any other candidate.

GO JOHN YOU REALLY SHINED TONIGHT!! DID YOU ALL SEE DAVE CHAPPELLE IN THE AUDIENCE???

I felt like Hilary wasn't the General of her Army, or the Master of her Domain if you know what I mean. I happen to be a registered voter in a State where we don't have to declare a party to vote for before we actually vote, therefore I'm paying close attention to "every" candidate regardless of party lines.

I had the distinct impression that whoever Hilary has hired to provide her with information on Obama & Edwards is only feeding her what they want her to run with and unfortunately I felt she looked like rather foolish tonight having only partial truths to expouse . . . it's time she either does her own research or make absolutely certain she's gettting the entire story (truth) when she get's it and fire the fools that are trying to slide her into the White House and show some real leadership. Makes me wonder who will really be running the White House is she wins?

We need an action plan to get the country out of this mess. Dirty laundry we have. Thanks John Edwards for keeping it real….you've got my vote.

I think Hillary will take the nomination and the presidency………

Go Hillary……..

Why is it that in the Democratic debates the candidates are never asked their position on immigration?

Obama has been playing race card since last month.
He is a divider rather than an uniter as he has boasted all year long.

Edwards is certainly underrated so far and there is a long way to go.

Bill Schenieder is absolutely correct. Personal attackve no place in the debate, however you should never peek in a door that you don't want opened. Mr. Obama peeked, and now that very door is opening to show him to be the very type of politician he wants to be critical of.

It is time for the media……..ALL of the media to realize that John Edwards is in this race. John Edwards had the most to say tonight that made good, common, calm & coherent sense.
JOHN EDWARDS: Great Work! Good job keeping the humor and you make a Democrat, PROUD!
Now, to the MEDIA: PAY ATTENTION! JOHN EDWARDS is running for
President of the United States of America! Get with it!

Obama is a brilliant person. He is the most qualified of all. If you have doubts about his record I strongly encourage you to read the Newsweek article "The Incremental Revolutionary". It explains why Obama did "present" vote in Illinois senate instead of "Yes". He was an editor of Harvard Law Review and I trust his judgment completely. Hillary on the other hand is tauting about her 35 year record, but could not bring about universal health care in the 90's when her husband Bill Clinton was the President. Hillary cannot win against McCain. Lot of republican law makers like Obama over Clinton. That means Obama can get done a lot more as president than Hillary. Obama says he does not have answer to all problems but promises to employ worthy people and good advisers unlike our current President Bush who employed all his cronies and put this country in the midst of totally unnecessary war and put this country in a big debt.

I think it was a good debate. Hillary is tough and will stand up against Republican Candidate. Obama seems to have gone unchallenged in his career and looks uncomfortable and defensive when challenged. He started the fight and lost. He has good style but not familar with details of issues such as healthcare, national security etc. Obama will win because of black vote in South Carolina. Edwards sound like a boy scout. I would go with Hillary.

CNN may have the best political team on television, however, their camera staff/photographers are the worst! I want to believe that they are just BAD rather than believe that they made a concerted effort to focus the camera squarely on Hillary Clinton's backside at least 10 times in the first segment of the debate. I'm sure this is one area in which Obama and Edwards would not fight for equal time!!

John Edwards came out the winner!!!!! He stuck to the issues and talked of his experience! Go John!!!

Hillary is getting such a free pass on her dirty politics just because she is a woman, and no one wants to confront her about it. Isn't it ironic how Hillary's camp starts off by saying something completely untrue and obnoxious and then THEY themselves turn around and become the victims… Obama is too much of a nice guy to Hillary.
Even in the debate today, all Hillary did in her answers was not say how she is qualified, but pick on Obama constantly, and she rightfully got booed on several occasions for it.
If her best "issue" is that how Obama should NOT be the president, then she's really desparate. But I imagine her bickering must play well with the women… I guess.

It seems to me that Sen. Obama poses a serious threat for the Clintons who have become very nasty in their politics. Hillary down rigth called Sen. Obama irresponsible reducing herself to nothing more than an unenlightened person. It proves that she is more of a divisive force and will get nothing done in washington with her nasty attitude. I would rather vote another republican in office than her, hope Democrats can see through her motives.

I've read some of the comments about Senator Obama. To those who support him: I understand and agree. To those who decry him with quips that say the other has a plan and that he does not is really far from reality. It is as if they are lead blindly to believe in someone just because their "alpha" friend suggests it. To those I say, wake up and think for yourself. Before you agree that someone does not have a position, I suggest you check out exactly what that person stands for. You'll be surprised.

Though, especially in our country, mass persuasion is somewhat rampant. So many are not capable of making up their own minds. This is a pity.

I encourage any who are reduced to following a quip: check out for real exactly what it is that a candidate stands for. Check out their websites. Most importantly think for you; for yourself. Make up your OWN mind. Then whomever you decide to vote for is good and real. That at least is better than flippantly saying one has a "plan" and the other doesn't.

For me it's clear,
they all have a plan, they all make pretty good sense. But one stands out from the others. A leader, confident and assured, who can deal with heads of state abroad and work for positive solutions here at home. A leader who can bring us all together: Barack Obama!

Say whatever you want… It doesn't matter who it is, if they voted for the war, they don't get my vote. period. Hillary may be a great candidate, she could win, but she voted for the war. It is not about race or gender or any of that jibber jabber. It is about who voted for the War. Screw them all, Dems and GOP alike who voted for that g-d war.

I think the sparring tonight was healthy! If John Edwards were polka-dot, a martian or one of the 7 Dwarfs he would get more attention in this gender/race defying journey for the nonination. Tonight it seemed that Edwards aligned himself more with Hillary than Obama. In prior debates Edwards seemed to jump on the Obama band wagon. As far as the issues with Bill Clinton putting in his 2 cents worth please remember the 2000 election. Gore distanced himself from Clinton and I believe that hurt him, although he did win the popular vote! When I hear Republican friends start this bs about Bill Clinton I always remind them of how they loved the economy during his time as president. That usually shuts them up!

Obama looked lost tonight… Like a puppy trying to find his way home….. Presidents always should look Confident….

Not the old politics at all.Hillary will not let Obama use bumper sticker quips to manufacture policy and neither will Edwards.Obama is an empty suit with a quick tongue and because this is the new politics he is being held to account before we elect him and egt another plastic president .No details no votes is exactly the way it should be when we elect a presdient.

Lest we forget, in these two short weeks, Barack Obama has been disparaged for being "too nice." I am thrilled about the strength he exhibited and the manner with which he took on Clinton. You should read/watch his interview w/ the Reno Gazette. He said Ronald Reagan changed the trajectory of American politics. Reagan did just that….Not once did Obama express admiration for Reagan or the Republican "ideas" of the past 3 decades. He was showing by example, prehaps too subtley, that he could unite our country in a way Reagan did. Regards, it is Hillary Clinton who NEVER answers direction questions. She turns questions into her campaign stumping and rhetoric. I wonder why she talks about "Day One." She will never be president. The country would never allow it. If the Democrats are stupid enough to nominate Clinton as their candidate, the Republicans deserve to win….Obama was right on target saying he isn't always sure who he's running against (because he has been forced to respond to FALSE ploys by Bill Clinton). Regardless, I sit and read and watch Hillary Clinton fracture the Democratic Party. Way to go Hillary! There is no qualitative difference between Hillary Clinton and John McCain. If that's the general, I'll stay home and pack my bags. If that's what our country is all about, I see no reason to become an expatriot. I will renounce my U.S. citizenship if our country returns a Republican to the White House on the heels of the George W. Bush legacy. Because, if Clinton is the nominee, that is what is sure to happen.