Pain and shame my eye! The man is responisble for the best economy in history. Wake up people. Obama is certainly capable of a rousing speech but it will take someone as tough as Hillary to get anything accomplished.

She is who she is… a woman who tolerates a despicable, nasty husband and accepts his mean, personal, and powerful (he is MR. PRESIDENT) attacks on her opponent as welcome positive additions to her campaign. She wants to fight, attack, win (after 35 yrs) and her frustration and anger are evident and she has a right to her feelings.REMEMBER the pain and shame? Remember OUR pain and shame? But let's see her for what she is… still a pawn, an angry pawn, still being used by her husband, still striving and struggling to be somebody. Well, not on my watch, thank you very much!! Enough already about being "ready on the first day". I can see it now, God forbid, Bill in all his glory, snuggling arm around his little woman, and her still wondering, "When will it be my turn?". As co-president, no matter how fancy her pants suits become, she'll never be Mrs. President… merely the wife of good ol' boy (and I do mean boy) Bill. But there's not much chance of that. I believe ANY Republican can beat her.

Hillary is just as divisive as Bush is. Partisan politics don't work.

Anyone but Hitlary '08!

Hillary just continues the puppet show. it's Dems vs GOP!!! yeah, whatever. they're bought and paid for. answering to the CFR, international bankers and corporations.

Sure Hillary is going to DIVIDE this contry. Please keep her away from the White House. Time to end the Clinton Dynasty. Otherwise we will end up being like the middle east countries where kings are from the same family. In another 8 years we will be seeing Chelse in for the white house race…

Watching Hillary, all I can think about is how polarizing she is, how many political debts she has, and how she'll deal with Republican congressmen and women who hate her. Shock radio and 'fox' pseudo-news programing will have a field day with her in office.
I think Edwards and Obama can navigate getting legislation through and realizing a mandate more than Clinton. Bill had the possiblity of a mandate and squandered it on failed healthcare reform (led by Hillary) and his affair. How much of that sticks to Hillary? In reality, he was a centrist who helped usher us out fiscally away from Reaganomics – not much else. He lost congress and the presidency (not backing Gore sufficiently against Bush).
Edwards stands for reform and Obama talks the talk. Together, Edwards and Obama are much more unifying figures who can capitalize on that when it comes to leading the American people and getting Congress behind that agenda.

At his death, MLK was talking about us getting out of Viet Nam and global economic injustice. His legacy was not yet realized as a global leader, of social justice, beyond race.
In his letter from a Birmingham jail, he challenged everyone (the majority) sitting on the sideline to become "creative extremists," which in my view was for every one of us to step into the frame of social activism and social enterprise initiatives to help and pick up those being left behind. We all have a role in re-making this democracy what it can be, rather than letting the haters make cynics out of all of us.
Who will get us there? Edwards/Obama

Hillary wants to win at any cost – even if she brings down her own party. Her only chance of gaining the nomination is to alienate and diseffect enough traditional Dems to take the center. She's a hawkish centrist who plays old school politics. Same old/same old thing. Is that what we want? It makes for a risky general election for the general campaign for us Dems.
We Dems need to keep our eyes on the prize. We win with either Edwards or Obama. Edwards delegates are much more likely to go Obama than Clinton. A vote for either Edwards or Obama will help broker a true winner for the general election.

Did Hillary answer Edwards' question about campaign $$$ from lobbiests? She poo-pooed the question as so many degrees of seperation She extrapolated that if she took $$$ from a lobbiest, who is to say Edwards didn't take money from the spouse of a lobbiest, as if to imply, who really cares!!?. Well, I care. I think America cares. Doesn't it matter if we're going to change 'politics as usual?' I thought her answer was flip and showed disdain for those who really want to see change.

Did you notice that at the beginning of the debate, Hillary paid homage to the Black Congressional Caucus, but went right into policy wonk mode and overlooked the opportunity to say something about the MLK legacy. I was surprised that Obama kind of fumbled his openning. Yet, it was Edwards who gave the most respectful, succinct response, bringing up his unfinished legacy of economic justice, that also dovetailed nicely into the overall economic question. But, Hillary's brazen pandering to the congressional representatives in the audience was astonishing. She got something in later, but, whew, her focus is clear to me… win through expediency.

I think that we need to see the differences between the candidates & there is nothing wrong with debate….If you remember Obama & Edwards started this negative crap with their wives & then once BiIl & Hillary started fighting back the media gets to spinning and we are where we are today. One thing for sure Obama can not take it he acted like a spoiled kid last night in the debate & it is for certain that he is not ready to take on the GOP. Edwards was very impressive in the debate & Clinton sure held her own with Obama. I have made up my mind not to support Obama, he acted like a bully.

Hillary "won" 3 out of 4 states, yet Obama still has more delegates. And so far, out of the Clinton camp, we've had allegations of voting machine fraud in one state, allegations of voter intimidation in another, and a lawsuit over previously agreed to caucus sites in a third. And this is only 4 states into the primary.

Hillary is so divisive. She cannot win a general election.

America has a chance to bring about a fundamental change in the way we are perceived world wide, as well an opportunity to unite this country. I am saddened that so many of my fellow Americans are afraid to go this route. I will fight tooth and nail to see this change come to fruition. I only wish more people were willing to stand up for the new direction this country must go, as opposed to remain in their status quo comfort zone.

BTW..in head to head polls on RealClearPolitics between Republican and Democratic candidates, Obama blows Hillary out of the water in each match up. Check it out for yourselves. If Hillary gets the nomination, she won't win the general election, and when those of you who supported her are crying in your beers, I'll be proud of the choice that I made to support Obama, and pissed off that America let a profound opportunity slip right through it's fingers.

The Democrats have divided this country, only they can undo it. Hillary promises to prolong, and fuel division in this country.

The problem is not just beating the republican in the general elections. The problem is if a candidates wins can they raly the American people behind them an d push their agenda in congress. The people will not raly behind you until they truth you. Obama has cross party appeal and that makes him the best person to implement his policy. With Hillary, the 60 vote threhod in the Senate will be her biggest hill to climb. Republicans, many of whom, may still have old scores to settle with the clintons from the 1990s will make sure nothing is done and her presidency should be a failure. At the end of the day, it will be the American people who will suffer. Why will 300 milion people go through these same old fights of the 1990s so that Billary can achive their fantasy.

Wake up people. President Barack Obama will have the support of congress from both parties to realise many of the Democratic agenda; Healthcare, energy security, public work reconstruction, etc etc.

I think she's honest about it. Anyone that believes they will not paint the democrats as liberal tax and spenders hasn't been watching politics for very long….

After watching tonight's debate I have to say I was impressed with Hillary's ability to handle the attacks from the other candidates. Also, I was impressed with how informative she was on very important issues. I'll definetly be voting for her!!!

Hillary's rhetoric is not this fierce because she's warming up for Red v. Blue in the fall – it is so because she's fighting one of them on the stage next to her! Don't forget Obama's affinity for the Donnie McClurkin homosexuality-is-a-disease argument he showed earlier in the campaign season. Barack supporters are poised to hand over the US to a wolf in sheep's clothing, all in the name of unification – way to go, guys!

WHY IS THE MEDIA BABYINMG OBAMA? ARE THEY TOO AFRAID OF BEING CALLED RACIST? THEY SEEM TO LOVE THIS GUY.

Some "narrow-minded" democrats will lead to their downfall in the general election.

The number of Independents (count me in) and some Republicans are rushing to vote now because of Obama, NOT Hillary. That number will soon start to change if Hillary ever takes the lead. Again, let the democrats stop fooling themselves that Independents and some moderate Republicans are LOOKING for EXPERIENCE. These people are Looking for CHANGE (as in Obama) because they are tired of the in-fighting.

Note, if the Republicans were able to tear Bill to pieces and scandals, Hillary will just be a "piece of cake" for them. Not a single Republican is going to want to give in to her as this will increase her chance for a second-term

Wake up Democrats; this race is yours to lose!!!!!

All Hillary has to do is stare a person down–they will go running for the hills. We need that kind of scarey leadership right now. There is going to be a lot of clean up after the Bush terms. He has messed the heck out of this country. We are laughed at all over the world, when in the 90's we were respected and admired.
Hillary is the only one that can take on the powerful military machine of John McCain—Edwards doesn't know enough foreign policy and Obama is a pacifist.
I can just see it know, Obama debating McCain on the war in Iraq—what a horrible, embarrassing thought for all of mankind.

Hillary is a manager. Obama is a LEADER.

Go OBAMA AND SAVE OUR COUNTRY!

For people who say Hillary is divisive think about our present war monger in the White House – think how divisive he is.. You have to have enough strenght to take a stand and fight and get things done. Hillary or Edwards could do that if elected.
Obama will fold and the Republicans will continue ruining our country.
Dems, support your party and stop the hatefest,
We have to take this country back from the precipice of destruction.
Go Hillary 08 or Edwards 08
they can win against the Republicans in the general election.!

After seeing the debate it was clear me who the strongest contenders are.
Hillary and Edwards. While Obama has appeal, he sputters and hesitates alot.
Edwards carried himself very well and I wish he was at least in second place.
I think he got too little coverage because he was white male against a woman and black man. he just wasn't interesting enough. Even the republicans aren't getting the same coverage as Hillary and Obama it seems. Oh well too bad for them.

If USA wants to lead the world, its leaders must be more visionary, not short sighted and nit picking on petty issues. Else the the world should turn to France where Sarkozy has shown his willingness to do transformation.

Who cares if she can "beat Republicans"?

We are NOT AT CIVIL WAR!!!! Why must she make it one?

How about you reach out to more than your arrogant, combative base and try to win someone not a devoted worshiper of the Church of Clinton.

She will not win a general election with a moderate Republican (which will likely win) and then some independents (Bloomberg, Nader?). Outside of her core, no one likes her and these tactics will only make them hate her more.

It seems everyone is talking about how Hillary is the only one that can beat the republicans because she is so experienced at taking on the republicans and can take on McCain. I am not even sure if the republicans really believe they can win this next election with the mess President Bush has made for them.

I think a democrat will win the election regardless of whether it is Hillary or Obama. The bottom line is we are going to need a little bipartisan support from congress, and Hillary is far too divisive to get any sort of republican congressional support. Maybe it is because she has been fighting "them" for 16 years?

Those of you that believe that Obama is the only candidate that can beat a Republican in the polls, what polls are you referring to? I am not familiar with those polls. If you are going to make claims like that, then please provide some citation for where you are getting your information.

The fact is, if Obama is the candidate, it would take no time at all for the Republican machine to tear him apart. Why do you think Karl Rove has released statements basically where he is rooting for him? Obama hasn't showed in any way shape or form that he can handle the Republican machine. And he is being rather naive if he thinks Republicans are just going to line up behind him and support him just because he says a few nice things about Ronald Reagan.

You people that are so excited to move "beyond party politics" do not understand how a democracy works. "Post partisan politics" = one political party = a dictatorship with no choice at all.

That is truly frightening to me. The notion that it is always best to build a consensus, so that there is no divergent viewpoints frightens me. It is one of the many reasons why I am not supportive of Obama's bid. He is missing the point of democracy.

I think Obama is a slick politician and is willing to play black to black audiences and serve up a message of unity to white audiences. He makes whites feel comfortable – this is not who he really is – wake up everyone! As a person of color I do not feel he is the candidate of change or unity he says he is. Hasn't anyone looked at the church he attends in Chicago? The donations from the slum lord who is under indictment for fraud in Chicago? The fact he attends a church his mother would not be welcome at or any one else that is not black? He is a senator just like all of the other candidates and a junior one at that. How is that different? He came up in the Chicago political machine and is very much a politician. Obama will be taken down by the Republican wolves – do not for a minute think they will give him a pass – there are too many things that have not been fully vetted yet. I like a Clinton/Edwards ticket after tonight.

I am really confused about this experience that Hilary speaks of. What is it? Her experience as the wife of a former president or her short tenure as a New York Senator? Hardly not what we need for a future president. As a woman and an African America, I am also disgusted about this idea that voters like myself have a problem chosing who to vote for because of the women/black factor. I am an independent and have not decided who to vote for. Eventually I will vote for the candidate that better represents what I care about.

Hillary's partisan views are exactly why I, as a Republican, would never vote for here no matter who the Republican nominee is. In fact, I'd go out of my way to help see her go down in flames on election night. The Democrats finally have someone with significant crossover appeal to Republicans like me. That someone is Barack Obama. His visionary, inclusive tone is the tonic that America needs. I truly believe he'd be an excellent President and would love to have the opportunity to vote for him. So Democrats, are you going to follow that tired old script and give me someone to vote against, or turn in a new script and give this lifelong Republican an opportunity for a first time vote for a Democrat for president. Obama's the best thing you've had to offer since JFK. Don't blow it Democrats!

To borrow from the script of one of my favorite movies, explain this to me like I'm a two year old…How does being the wife of the governor and the wife of the president give you 16 years of anything political (experience, savvy, etc.) other than being the wife of a politician? Hillary needs to stop weaving her years as the wife of a prominent politician into her own personal, political record or political experience. Hillary has 8 years of experience as a government official.

Hillary is the only one who can take the heat. Obama flubs everytime he feels he's being "questioned". It's called politics. Hillary can mobilize the Democratic base and bring in minorites as well. She can bring in intelligent young people as sell, too. Thie "appeal" that Obama tries to peddle will fall apart just like his screw up on the Reagan self-comparison. He's really not ready for prime time, and the sooner you all face it, the better we will all be.

I find it interesting that so many for or against Hillary comment on this story but the Obama story has an eighth as many responds. Even his supporters do not feel the need to comment to talk about him.

Obama appeals not only to the intelligent democrats, but to humanity in general, across the globe. Folks here in India are fired up to see a hard-working smart man can rise to the pinnacle of democracy. Everyone knows where Hillary comes from, but for Obama to come to be where he is now, simply amazing !

Obama '08 sounds a lot better than Billary '08

Obama forever !

hillary is old school. majorly. she still thinks that people are dumb enough to only vote for their party of choice. she thinks that people just care about the party, instead of what the candidates have to offer. i am an independent. according to hillary, i don't fit in anywhere. hillary needs to realize that there is NOT a red America and a blue America. as obama says, there is one America, the United States of America. I REALLY like that message. this is the only way we will be able to get things done, if we stop fighting among ourselves and pushing our own agenda and instead work together. there is no need to "take on" Republicans. and i'm sorry Hillary, but even though you "took on" the Republicans for 16 years, they have controlled the oval office for the last 8 so your strategy didn't really work so well.

Hillary lacks the ability to relate to people. She still has the old mindset. it's time for a new day, where we aren't so partisan. we have enough battles to fight such as the economy, health care, equality etc. without bringing in petty political fights between people working for the same country.

Here she is telling the truth. That's why she cannot be an effective president if elected. After 16 years of bitter division in the country, we need a leader who can bring the people together and be an effective president. I think that Obama is the only candidate who can bring about the positive change in our country.

Finally, without the independent and cross over Republican votes, no Democratic Party nominee will win the general election. Also, Democrats should note that the majority of left wing Democrats will not vote for Hillary Clinton.

Hillary 08!!!!!

Again Obama can not answer the question's, and CNN does not help him in this manner, but any how I think Edwards came off real well, he stood for his beliefs. I fully understand Senator Clinton on her stance. She has been clear on issue's. Senator Obama on the other hand, was frazzled, Tongue tied on occasion, and avoided the question's at hand. He interrupted the other candidates more when they would say something he did not like. I seen real weakness in Senator Obama, tonight more then any other. Senator Clinton was firm on her issues, I will be very proud to give her my vote on February 5th and again in November.

Senator Clinton for President 2008. "She's, THE REAL THING"

If for some reason the Clinton machine is successful in beating Senator Obama down then I am sure that will not be the end of Mr. Obama. I believe that God has many great things in store for Senator Obama and that he will in some way bring honesty, truth, and integrity to a 'United' States of America.

Everyone must open their eyes before it is too late and see that this is the time to stand behind a 'great' man that has only the 'good' of the people in his heart and mind.

Obama '08

HILLARY IS POLARIZING, MANIPULATIVE AND DISHONEST.

OBAMA.
OBAMA.

A presidential election is NOT about Democrats vs. Republicans, or whites vs. blacks vs. Latinos, a presidential election is about UNIFYING our country.

The REALITY is that there will always be Republicans in Congress because there will always be conservative views in our nation, and that's good! That's how our system of checks and balances works.

But in 2008, we need a president who will unify our nation, not just Democrats. We need someone who will cross racial lines, party lines, age lines, sex lines, and unify our country and do what's best for our country as ONE people.

Sen. Barack Obama is the ONLY candidate that can cross those lines and unify our people. Soon to be President Barack Obama is the ONLY candidate that can work with EVERYONE, Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike, to pass legislation that will benefit ALL.

Soon to be President Barack Obama is the ONLY candidate and has proven it to be the ONLY candidate to cross those lines. He's the ONLY candidate that has galvanized young people and made them interest in politics again.

Unfortunately, Sen. Clinton will only divide our party and our nation even further. Her legislation WILL NOT pass if she does not work with Republicans and Independents. Fighting Republicans is NOT what this campaign is about.

It is about UNIFYING our nation and Sen. Barack Obama is the only candidate that can do that.

It looks to me that Sen. Clinton is raring for a fight and more of the divisive and non productive us vs. them politics of the nineties. I think in the general election it means that she consistently attacks and points out how different she is from "them" i.e. republicans, conservatives, evangelicals, what have you and effectively alienatrd at least half of the voting public. It continues the current, highly polarized, political climate we have where nothing gets done because the other side is always wrong whether they offer constructive, valuable ideas or not simply because they are from a different political party. I personally am sick and tired of watching this kind of classic political fight and whether it's realistic or not I would like to see people come together and do what's best for everyone and not just their party.
Obama is the only one I see who is willing to try and make peace and unify the American people and our broken government. To paraphrase Mrs. Clinton if you don't start out trying you can never get there.

Oh and I forgot, I believe that Inspiration is Leadership as it can move one to action.

Once again Obama refuses to pledge allegience to the flag of the United States of America. There are pictures of this with others on stage and he has his back to the flag ,both hands by his side as the others pledge allegience. Think about this…………Is this really who you want to lead the greatest nation in the world. Not me. I fought for that flag and Obama denies it. He wont ever get my vote.

John Edwards is the working mans president. Make it official and elect the man who works for the working man.

Hillary is good at whipping up the Democratic base that has supported the Clintons for 15 years. The problem is that McCain is popular with Independents and even some conservative Democrats who have reservations about Hillary. The only way to defeat a McCain is to nominate a candidate like Obama who can fight this battle over the Independents….and WIN.

This is the problem is that they fight in the office. It is Republican against Democratic they don't agree on anything. After vote in to the office they need to stop fighting parties and come together work on a bill.

i do think, it fair for clinton to talk about obama record the way he (obama) has been pick and choose about clinton records,obama is a good man but i do think is not ready to be president All he talk is bringing every body together, on issue he is not on detail and if 99% black vote for him in sc then it will confirm that he another black candidate.

As a white female and a former supporter of the Clinton's, I couldn't be more disappointed in or more ashamed of them for their sleezy tactics. The fact that they are willing to fracture the Democratic Party should be enough for women, blacks, other minorities or anybody to realize that they will do absolutely anything to win. Including whining about the media coverage (which clearly favor Mrs. Clinton), trying to split the blacks, distortion and misrepresenting (commonly referred to as LYING) not only her own resume but the records and positions of her opponents. Apparently Bill is no longer concerned about his legacy… by the way folks… is Hillary running or is Bill? The truth is these two would throw any of us overboard in a heartbeat! Do I feel bad about no longer supporting the Clintons? No! Burn (or Use) me once, shame on you; burn (or USE) me twice, shame on me. The (Rove) campaign the Clintons are running is nothing short of shameful, especially after all the years of fighting that 'vast right wing conspiracy'. No, I'm just sorry it took me so long to realize; but, 'I can see clearly now'.

In the general election Hilary's partisan views will hurt her miserably. She will only continue to divide this nation and push republicans away.

You cant win when 50% of the country say they won't vote for you right off the bat.

What is there to "take on", as people say? Everyone is talking about a candidate's ability to "take on" the Republicans; it seems to be Clinton's chorus.

Does this mean responding to lies? Well, Obama clearly showed himself willing to do so tonight. Does it mean painting a clear difference between the Democratic candidate and the Republican one? Well, Obama seems able to do that as well.

If it means meeting dirty politics from the right with dirty politics from the left…you're right, Obama does not seem willing to do that. And I, for one, am glad of it.

Carole – There's no way that Clinton would pick (or even ask) Edwards to be VP. He would overshadow her because he's a lot brighter.

If she's the nominee, she'll pick someone who's non-threatening – and a bit of lightweight. Like Richardson.

And if she's the nominee, she'll lose…

I think that Hillary will get the votes of the people whom has an us vs. them view and whom are stuck in the old way of pushing their bills through Congress. Obama will get the people whom want to see change from the old political party ways of doing things of democrats vs. republics vs. independents to a more unified approach to tackle the issues that affect all AMERICANS.

One thing is clear and that is the American people want a change and will demand a change in November. I don't see Hillary as a change. Hillary is not change. Edwards, although impressive tonight, is not 'change' either. Both Clinton and Edwards are too connected to Washington. How many times have either one of them said "I know how Washington works" or something close to that? It proves to me that neither of them are the candidate of change.
I'm not going to say that I support Obama yet, as there is still too much to learn, but he seems to be the candidate who is viewed as the 'change' candidate.

"… leadership is the art of direct and indirect influence … But, above all, it is the art of taking a vision of what must be done, communicating it in a way that the intent is clearly understood, and then being tough enough to ensure its execution." FM 22-103, Gen John A. Wickham, Chief of Staff of the US Army, 1987.

Those of you who have never lead nor ever followed a real leader will always underestimate the importance of vision, inspiration and motivation!

Management is not Leadership just as

Experience does not mean good Judgment!

Go Obama '08

I think that it is a grand mistake for any democratic candidate to believe that they can effectively make the change that our country is so desperately seeking by maintaining this "us against them" mentality. I think it is absolutely forward thinking and brilliant that Obama has taken a smart approach to appealing to all sides. This is the only way to establish policies without sacrificing the most important and core elements of issues that must be resolved. As a NYC real estate broker, I completely understand the importance of appealing to both sides (buyer and seller) to come to a "meeting of the minds".

It is one thing to say that you are going to "do everything you can to continue to fight for the rights and issues of Americans", as Senator Clinton did, and another to actually have a real viable strategic plan for getting things done or coming to a "meeting of the minds" from all parties involved. These are the times we are living in today. We are not just electing a president of the United States but we are electing an individual to represent us in the global market place. This takes a very high level of ingenuity, intelligence, innovation and sometimes compromise. These attributes are innate and not necessarily indicative of someone's experience in the "board room".

These skills come from wisdom, a high moral and intellectual character, patience and an ability to not allow personal emotions to arise during times of pressure or immediacy. What we don't need is someone who "reacts" to issues, but rather is proactive.

If Senator Clinton felt the need to react (as she said) to every piece of misinformation or quote printed involving Senator Obama, what can we expect from her in the White House? We as Americans need to ask ourselves if this is what we want for our country.

I get the sense that over the last decade and a half, the majority of the Senate has taken a sort of "follow suite and status quo" approach to voting on issues. Possibly because they did not take the time to review and research thoroughly what they were voting on and the options deduced from their research or perhaps due to the political advantages or disadvantages of doing so.

I found it very interesting and profound that Senator Obama was able express his ability to be thorough and honest when it comes to voting on issues that will effect us. If voting "present" is better than voting "yes or no" on something that is not clearly and/or effectively presented, then SO BE IT.

Finally, I think it's unfortunate that the tone of these debates continues to be on the defensive. It is unfair and inappropriate that any candidate feel the need to have to continue to defend their records or positions. If the facts are readily available, then each should already know where the other stands. If incorrect information about candidates is being circulated by any campaigner, that individual, in my opinion, should be asked to step down from the race.

Thank you,

Makeba

Healthcare from 1993, and a major attitude problem? I don't see how anyone could support her, especially after tonight's debite. She came off looking like nothing more than, well, what republicans make the Clintons out to be.

Hillary is taking a stand against the Republicans, a clear and decisive one! Many are unhappy with the current state of the country under the GOP. She is speaking for many people Democrat and Republicans alike.

Hitlery has been fighting the republicans for 16 years! is that a fact. This lying witch has been fighting for anything or anyone except her husbnad when he throws the sloppy seconds girlfriends he doesn't want and sends them to her. SSHe can't bring this country together, tonight in the debates she got her fat butt kicked by Obama, he wouldn't back down, good for him!

No we don't want that same old tune she likes to play with the health care she is so hell bent on. the canadians don't like there health care, learn something from the friends north of us.

My heavens this Clinton machine is going to throw a rod, then blow up and I can't wait!!

Go Obama!

This evening in my opinion Hillary was despicable, disgraceful, deplorable, divisive, and darn right rude!

I can only hope that some day before I die I will be able to vote for a woman that gets on the ballot on her own merit that has dignity and integrity. This woman running today has neither and that is sad.

Obama '08

Never underestimate the power of "vision".

"… leadership is the art of direct and indirect influence … But, above all, it is the art of taking a vision of what must be done, communicating it in a way that the intent is clearly understood, and then being tough enough to ensure its execution." FM 22-103, Gen John A. Wickham, Chief of Staff of the US Army, 1987.

Those of you who have never lead nor ever followed a real leader will always underestimate the importance of vision, inspiration and motivation!

Management is not Leadership just as Experience is not mean good Judgment!

Go Obama '08

People at levels and circumstances will not be convinced by the promise of hope alone. The promise has to be backed by a real picture of experience and real accomplishment. Nor , primarily, can the leader's oratorical excellence be the vehicle to carry people over mountains of difficult and complicated problems. Obama has yet to demonstrate his capabilities to accomplish. Among the three contesting now, Hillary has the best chance to defeat the Republican nominee in the General Elections because of her experience, detailed knowledge and thorough understanding of the many issues facing the nation.

Giri

RE: comment by Chris regaring two families being in power for 24 years… Yes! You are soooo right. Other countries look at us and say "Democracy? yeah, right! More like trading bloodline-based monarchies!"

John Edwards said the things that resonate with the voters, Obama came thrrough the attacks with a) dignity and b) much more nuanced display when it came to the issues! Hilary must chill on her attack testosterone style because really and truly this race is hers to lose! and Americans want something else!

Hillary and Bill are so self centered that they ignore the fact that the two of them are offending an important base of the Dems. Hillary cannot play games with African Americans about Obama and then think that she can rely on the same base to become the president. Dems cannot win without the majority of African Americans support/vote in November. Therefore, Hillary cannot win in November.
Only Obama can win for the Dems in November

It is apparently clear that this is a good heated debate, reflecting upon the strengths, vulnerabilities and the audacity of truth. These are difficult times, with a dire economy, foreign policy challenges that mandate a leader with confident direction based on experience, and a critical healthcare situation.

To the good Americans of the United States of America, think of some of the worst situations possible that could happen, economically, internationally, healthcare wise et al. WHO WOULD YOU TRULY WANT TO BE IN OFFICE?

It is extraorindary that the great United States of America allows candidates to speak so freely. It is my sincere wish that we can keep it that way and look to all of the candidates' records, experience and significant achievements.

Kudos to CNN and Wolf Blitzer, Anderson Cooper and the CNN team tonight for leading an exciting and most compelling forum.

….Deborah

Hillary has good reason to think on an "us" versus "them" basis regarding democrats and republicans, given the outrageous crap dealt in the past 7 years by the republicans. However, that's not going to help our relationships with other nations, or inspire potential voters who never bothered to participate in elections in the past. Obama has this ability, and having lived abroad, even as a child, greatly improves his understanding of the issues, struggles, and thoughts of those abroad. And don't forget, Indonesia is a Muslim country, a religious group with whom we really, really need more communication and understanding. Hillary, or any other candidate's various trips abroad under diplomatic protection hardly compare.

Hillary and her rhetoric are old and tired. She is playing old school politics and that turns off independent voters like myself. All she has to do is open her mouth and independent voters roll their eyes and say "not this old tired story again!"

Tonight she showed me the angry old politician that she really is. She attacks when losing, she justifies her dirty tactics by saying "I am just showing differences" BS! She is showing her ignorance on what the American people want in a President and a leader. It may work with the democrats but it will not work with me as an independent.

She can not win, she is too divisive. The republicans will slaughter her in the general election.

You must win southern states in an election and only Obama can do that. He already has republicans who voted for him.

Look his win in Iowa should tell us how conservatives think. If the conservatives in Iowa want Obama, lets put up Obama. He'll destroy McCain, because while McCain will try to incite fear, Obama will inspire the masses with hope.

Obama is our only chance at a landslide in November.

Obama 08!!

Hillary is too partison to win the general election. She's still has the old playbook and Obama is the candidate of the future. Take is from me…my wife and I are republicans and we're for Obama. Playing to the base is what turned me off with my republican candidates. While we play partison games, troops are dying oversees, people are losing their homes and jobs, the economy is in peril, and we've lost our standing around the world. Wake up folks, we're all in this together.

Obama would get his head handed to him in a 1-on-1 w/ the Republicans. Only Hillary or Edwards could stand up to them. Their positions and values are at their core, they have lived the issues, they can talk in specifics, not lofty generalities.I'd love to see the waters settle a bit to make a Clinton/Edwards ticket a possibility.

I believe that she is a lightning rod of partisan politics. All to often she has made clear that she is more interested in pushing through her own agenda, for her own benefit, than leading the country. Another politician has the same views, but from the oppisite end of the spectrum;
George Bush

If a democrat is elected, the USA will be turned into a New Orleans as in the past 40 years of Democrat governing. High welfare and government housing… more welfare than we can afford.

As an independent voter whose father is from Africa and mother is American.

Hillary doesn't divide the country. Politics divides the country. While Obama has a preacher style non partisan approach and I think he is a great politician. Hillary has been there during tough times. She understands that and make no mistake, THERE HAS ALWAYS BEEN PARTISANSHIP IN POLITICS. That doesn't mean that we the voter's have to be partisan. It is not directed at the US people but rather the politicians. I am an independent and often get offended at all the partisanship and then I realize where it stems from. Hillary has much more "history and experience" with the Republicans (in DC) and the press. Therefore her whole life is exposed and we know it like we know her life like we know our own lives. The key is she is still there and fighting. The reason why some Republicans don't like her is because we clearly know where she stands. Quoting Churchill and thinking about Hillary,
“You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.”

Hillary has stood for Universal health care and fighting for the middle class. She hasn't changed on that 15 plus years. I am not a democrat or a republican I am someone that shares beliefs in both parties but I know that the Democrats are notoriously in modern times for the people and the environment. One step further Hillary represents NY the state that got hit by 9/11. SHE WORKED WITH REPUBLICANS TO GET HOMELAND SECURITY MONEY. IT IS ALL ABOUT what you do not what you will claim to do.

As for Obama's comment about the close door practice by the Clinton's to promotoe Universal Health Care. I am not sure what Obama was doing back then. I know what I was doing I was at my University leading a letter writing campaign to promote Clinton's plans for Universal Health Care. Obama is misrepresenting the past if he thinks that the Clinton's didn't engage the American public. Many of us were engaged. Unfortunately what some people might not of realized especially for those not engaged in grass roots campaigns is they don't always win the fight. We don't vote on the bills and do the politics, the politicians do. And in teh case of Universal Health Care our congress didn't want it, I think we are ready for it now. I trust Hillary to get the job done. I think Sen Obama is talking about spending a lot of time educating the disengaged public on how he would like DC to be (which is a great thing). The reality is partisan politics exist sometimes and no-one will change that. Politics equals policies and compromise. After having a few more votes as oppose to no shows he will have more criticism as well. He has been very crafty to avoid a lot of the attacks but it is because he has not been around as long as Clinton.

Keep watching reading and learning that is what I am doing!

she isnt likeable
she represents a coorporate America interests and the Clinton dynasty.
No need for Bill Clinton nostalgia, dont forget he has scores to settle.
America is nearly facing a recession, it needs hope and unity more than anything else

"Question for the commentators:

Who speaks the clearest, and with the most authority and vision? Who has years of political experience?"

Answer for the commentators:

Barack Obama. More years in elected public office than both Hillary and John Edwards. Obama stands head and shoulders above the others with the ability to inspire others to stand up with integrity and work hard for each other. He is a rare, once-in-a-lifetime candidate, a true visionary who can transform our country.

What a ridiculous question! Of course Hillary speaks in partisans terms. These are the primaries. Her target audience is made up of Democrats.

“How will it play in a general election match up?” The question is moot. Hillary is a skilled rhetorician and when the general election takes place, she will adjust her tone to be more inclusive to all voters.

If nominated, the only thing the repubs would have to say about Hillary is this:

We have had a Bush or Clinton in the White House since the 1980s and guess what America, this year, the Republicans are breaking the dynasty of these two families!

That one issue alone will win the presidency for the Republicans if Hillary is nominated!

When Hillary "Found her voice", for that moment that she actually spoke with that voice, she sounded like John Edwards.

John McCain will eat Hillary alive because she has agreed with almost every stupid Bush policy on this war. She tried to look strong by supporting the war, but it bit her in the posterior. On the other hand, Obama was against this war from the beginning, (when it was unpopular to be against the war.) That was true leadership then and it is what will help him win the Presidency against a Republican if we Democrats are smart enough to give him a chance.

Hillary does not speak for all woman!!!!!

I DON'T want Canada's health care system, thanks.

OBAMA in 08…. America is not a rotating dynasty for the Bush and Clinton families… Clinton did a great job in office, but his wife is the most divisive figure in the democratic party…remember McCain can pull Dems and Independents…Hillary can only pull from the base… Billary's republican campaign tactics will depress the democratic vote and McCain will win…simple.

John Edwards speaks the clearest. Hillary speaks with authority. Barack Obama has the vision. All have political experience. What is most important to me, as a Democrat, is our standing in the world; how we come across to the rest of the world. The people of the world are so interconnected with each other today than forty or twenty years ago. As each day passes, my soul is looking toward Barack as the blessing that this world needs.

I think the U,S,A, is going down the toilet and taking Canada with them

Why are my posts always in permanent "Your comment is awaiting moderation". People are saying things on this blog way worse than I. Is it just because I am saying that I am a Democrat that will never vote for Hillary because of her divisiveness? What is wrong with that? It is true and reflects the opinions half of the Democrats. After how the Clinton's have tag-teamed on Obama, I think it would be fair to say that most Obama supporters will not be voting for Hillary in the general election should she win the Democratic nomination.

This isn't like 2004 when Democrats held their nose but still voted for Kerry. The slash and burn style of the Clintons has really made me start to hate them. That is coming from someone who is a lifelong Democrat, been an Officer in a local Democratic Party, and volunteered for muliple Democratic campaigns.

I would rather vote for McCain. Both him and Hillary are evil, but at least McCain would only be in there for 4 years, if that.

Every American can have healthcare. The quality of healthcare will not suffer anymore than it does now. Americans can have what Canada has and even more.

The thing is, in order to move forward, we need to expand and grow the progressive movement.

Obama and Edwards can both do this.

Hillary cannot grow the party, and neither can she attract independants. A Hillary Clinton democratic candidate in the General would just hand the country to the GOP for another four years.

The bottom line is Hillary plan to anything starts with "I" and Obama message is all about "We". Just like he reference in his speech we are the United State of America!!!!

The only candidate to win a a Red State was Senator John Edwards. Senator Clinton and Senator Obama won in Blue States. If Senator Edwards can carry North & South Carolina, the Democrats can win the White House. The other two candidates may not be able to carry sufficient Red States for the Democrats to regain the White House. Senator Edwards is the ONLY candidate who can carry a majority of the South, to win the White House. Clinton and Obama have already divided the Democratic Party with their fighting. The only candidate that can unite the party and win Red States is Edwards which is only way to WIN the White House.

Thanks

Edwards can win, he can beat the republicans because he has the broadest appeal in the most important way… through his issues.

I'm a lifelong democrat who is sad to see some of the comments being posted here, especially by my fellow democrats and especially by Hillary's supporters.

Hillary doesn't get it and a lot of her supporters don't get it. You got Hillary's supporters who think that it's all about beating the republicans. If Hillary has to stoop to the sort of divisive politics that Bush has been practicing for 8 years to win the nomination and the presidency, then as president, she is only going to be a democratic version of George Bush. I don't want George Bush: the liberal edition. A liberal partisan is just as bad as a conservative partisan. A liberal who will stoop to any level to defeat her enemies is just as bad as a Bush who will do anything to ram his political appointees down congress' throat. A candidate who says: Vote for me, I'm the only one who can beat the republicans, who is saying: Vote for me or the republicans will win, is just as bad as a candidate who says: If you don't vote for me, the terrorists will win. Both candidates are playing on your fear to get your vote.

For 8 years American voters have allowed a Bush to use fear to govern them. Are we now about to allow a Clinton to do the same?

If you are going to vote for Hillary, please for God's sake come up with a better reason than "She's our only defense against the evil republicans."

hillary will do anything, say anything, change her viewpoint, attack her fellow democrates to get mindless people to vote for her…thinking people will see through this professional "politician" and the one who stands at her side, bill…. i don't know about the rest of you, but for me, i can't watch or listen to the clintons anymore…where's the integrity, and kindness–real kindness doesn't come in unsympathetic talk about her need to help the poor, uninsured classes, but real kindness comes in humble acts … so she wants to "fight" the republicans? please! all she has been doing is fighting her fellow dems…we can do without her….

I believe the Clinton/Edwards ticket is a winning one, Obama is a fad due to the race, but he is very brilliant, just no very electable. A few years down the road he might prove unbeatable.

The more I see and listen to Obama , the more I know he will have my vote. No more business as usual , exchanging names, Bush then Clinton then Bush then Clinton again ? Not for me!Obama 08

Obama seems inexperience in these debates and stumbles.

Hillary is statis quo partisanship as usual this will not move us to a new place. Obama is a clear unifiying personality.

We do not need another "kind of" Republican in the White House. We need Democratic experience and someone who can get the job done. Hillary has proven she can "take it" and stand by her beliefs and values. The Republican party will not be able to shake her. Woman are strong-after all look at Your mother!!

obama is for unity not division that characterizes hillary!

Hillary (and tonight Edwards as well) need to realize that not acknowledging the gray shades of Obama's votes in Illinois (i.e. "present "when he was waiting on purpose for political reasons to get appropriate changes to various bills) is very ignorant. Voting "yes" or "no" on a bill that needs some tweaking is being blind, especially if you have good reason to believe appropriate revisions can be made by holding out for them. Let's not repeat history, where we have an intelligent candidate losing because he isn't as black and white as the republican competitors (i.e. John Kerry's measured responses and thoughtful reasoning for things -beyond blind black and white thought – resulting in a Bush win.) Let's focus on getting a Democrat in office. Preferably Obama president, with Edwards vice. This should sufficiently reflect the need for real change, and balance those in America who are still hung up on racial issues. Hillary is preferable to any republican, but still far too entrenched in Washington for my comfort level.

Hilary is right- The campaign is the Democrats' to lose, The fight is against the Republicans AND George Bush, The key is to force the Republican candidate to defend the current President and tie the Republicans to Bush as tightly as they cling to Reagan,

Obama is already crossing party lines and will bring this country together. It's said that it's citiizens have lost faith and hope in bringing this country back to it's greatness.
Obama for President. He is the only one that is electable against Republicans is all polls. If Hillary wins the nominee we will lose the White House AGAIN.

Hey Orville…I thought the whole idea was to move away from the "political machine?
The Clintons are THE biggest offenders! I can't stand seeing her play the "game of politics"…it's a disgrace! How does she thinks that's appealing to most Americans?

However, you may have heard of a scandal involving Senator Hillary Clinton’s campaign and a less-than savory character named Norman Hsu. According to reports from the LA Times, Hsu skipped out on a 1991 plea agreement in San Mateo Co. CA, in which he was to serve three years for grand theft. Hsu, who turned himself in to authorities in CA on Friday and awaits a September 5th bail hearing, became a top Democratic fundraiser and contributor to Hillary Clinton’s campaign as well as other Democratic candidates, including Senator Barack Obama, much of which was laundered through others. The Clinton campaign has agreed to return $23,000 in campaign donations from Hsu, and Obama has agreed to donate his $2,300 donation to charity.

While both scandals hold equal potential for damage to the respective candidates involved, the media, for unknown reasons, gave Mitt Romney a pass, while devoting ample time to Hsu and the Clinton campaign. According to Media Matters, NBC, CNN and FOXNews all covered the Hsu scandal, but none of the aforementioned networks dedicated any time to the Romney/Fabian scandal that can be found in the Nexis database. More from

Yes I think Hilary knows how to fight republicans, but that is her strength and downfall. In a general election she is going to polarize republicans and some democrats against her. This senator has created a looooot of enemies touring her tenure and I think this will show during a general election. When Bill shows his head during the general election they are going to bring up all of the dirt of his second term and the muck and mire that we were in during his last years will be back.

Of note is anyone concerned that if she wins this election that two families would have been ruling this country for twenty four years?

IT"S GOT TO BE HILLARY!!! She is the one with the experience and ability to win. She made good sense in the debate, too.

Hillary is premeditating the fight which lays ahead. I believe John Edwards is the only answer to a Republican fight. Incidentally, the last election showed that America was divided in half: republicans and democrats. So, the clinton practice of continuing to name "republicans" is pushing fellow americans away. While Obama offers charisma and promise to lead the nation to change, his message is an imitation of John Edwards original message. Hillary in New Hampshire said this fight was personal for her, then Obama said this fight was personal for him. Both barak and clinton… are getting disproportionate media coverage from the same allies they find funding their campaigns. Edwards is the only Original, Honest, Meek yet Capable candidate to fight and win any challenge facing America. Democrats get Real.. John Edwards is your only hope to win against the Repulicans and earn respect from ALL of America.

She's too divisive. If "the base", as people say, get her in, there will be a problem come the general election. Although, I seem to remember another candidate who "energized the base" and he got elected, twice…and is still in office despite a whole lot.

Obama will unite the country, and is the better man for the job. Ms. Clinton is divisive and wants to be president, but not for the same, real reason as Senator Obama. President Clinton was wonderful, but we don't want a repeat, or someone who has had all of their experience coming from his policy. She supported every move he had his 8 years in office. We want change.

Hillary Wins Hands Down! She is ready to lead this Country and we should be proud to have such a great person running for President of this country in a time that we can't take chances on Obama who has no proven viable record. If our economy was strong and we weren't in debt then perhaps we could take the risk on Obama. We know Clinton has the know how and understands the political challenges and how to overcome them so we need to be careful to elect a President who can get in there and clean up all the messes we are in. Perhaps after 8 years of Senator Clinton then we can take a chance on someone who wants to lead by inspiration. Obama looks good on paper but I'm very afraid if he is elected that he can't clean up what has happened and will miserably fail. Not a chance I'm ready to take.

Question for the commentators:

Who speaks the clearest, and with the most authority and vision? Who has years of political experience?

"Hillary has the base. The thing of it is, if she is the nominee, it'll be harder for her than Obama or Edwards to get the support of Independents or even Republicans. Some people just hate Hillary. It's great that she's partisan now, but if we see a Clinton-McCain election, McCain will win. Obama has a better chance of unifying both sides."

Hilllary's base is barely 1/2 of the Democrats, which make up barely 1/2 of the country.

She will get elected with 1/4 of the vote?

I think not.

McCain is beginning to look like a shoo-in.

We've allowed Men to mess thing up for too many years.
I look forward to seeing what a Woman can do!
Hilliary I will be Proud to call you my President
Hillary in 2008
Go Hillary!

Hillary lost the dabate. John was pretty good and so was Obama. Hillary wipe that constipation look off your face.

When I see Hillary it makes me think of the Arabic countries that do not support their women and neglect them cover them up and I just can't believe that they will be listening to her on any address she may have. They don't want women and will not listen. She may say they will but if you read up on their traditions and history this will not happen. Dems read and study their history and you will see it is just lip movement she doesn't know for sure.

HIllary is right. Anyone knows the Republicans want Obama as the nominee because they do believe they can beat him with no problem. Republicans feel threathened by Hillary not Obama. If Obma wins nomination get ready for another Republican President.

In the general election, in order to WIN, Hillary will need those Republican voters she so clearly despises. She cannot win without some crossover voters.

Saying things tonight like she is totally anti-Republican (not true) and is "fighting Republicans" all her life, only serve to divide the country, not unite it.

Unfortunately, Obama fell into the trap. He should have said, "Well, Hillary, it's that sort of tone that the people of the USA are sick of" and left it at that.

Instead he tried to out-nasty Hillary. And that just ain't possible!

To win in the general election you need crossover appeal, which is why I can't justify voting for Hillary. She has high negatives within her own party and she is polarizing to the general electorate. No republican that I have spoken to would even consider voting for her and far too many democrats would break ranks with the party if she were the nominee. Others would simply sit this one out. Again. I'm horrified by the prospect that the democrats are looking at a scenario in which the white house should be a slam dunk and they may throw it all away.

Which candidate will address these issues? My doctor once explained to me that you cannot take care of your family if you do not first take care of yourself. This also is so true for America. We are not taking care of our own and this is a shameful disgrace. Look at New Orleans for example yet we run to give our much needed help to other nations. So very many of our people make minimum wage which is so low that working two and three jobs still is not enough to get out of poverty which also is too low I am talking about young parents, the elderly, some college educated persons, and almost anyone who could not afford to go to college, which should be a given for everyone of even just average intelligence. American and not able to go to a doctor! Americans are no longer proud and for a good reason.

The mentality of "fighting the Republicans" is exactly what people are sick of. THAT'S why they like Obama because he presents himself as above that. Why do you think everyone is so game-on when it comes to change? Because they don't want the same story to unfold. I do like a lot of what Hillary stands for, but she's going to be pummeled by the Repubs from the second she receives the nomination. Barack has actually drawn quite a bit of support from Republicans and Independents, so while Hillary's defending what Bill did 12 years ago, Barack doesn't have as much baggage which is why his inexperience (and steady stance on bipartisanship) works with him.

Hillary keeps saying she's "been through this for 16 years" and she can "handle" everything. Well, great. 16 years of polarization and partisanship.

I'm a Reagan Democrat. Yes, we still exist. Ronald Reagan came into our lives when we needed a leader like him, especially to stand firm against Communism and bring down the Berlin Wall. Ronald Reagan unified this country with his words among Republicans, Democrats, & Independents. Bill Clinton had it easy coming in as President, especially with Ross Perot in the picture. Though the Republicans took Congress in 1996, the Clinton Administration had so much of an opportunity to lead our country and the world into an entirely new direction that could not have resulted in September 11th. The scandals and accusations that divided the country from 1997 to 2000 was unbearable for this country. It resulted in polarizing our country into red and blue, and both parties (Republican and Democrat) focused on tearing each other down to the detriment of our standing as the United States in this world. The political machines in both parties, with their connections to corporations and energy companies, has realigned the power centers of the world toward the European Union and China. As voters, we have a decision to make as to whether we take our country further down the path of purgatory for our country or learn a new way to approach the new world order that shows the people of the world that the United States of America can be the beacon of light, hope, and unification for our next destiny in life which is the vast universe. Maybe it will be the Independent voters of this country who will determine our fate for the forseeable future.

I disagree with the view that there will not be republicans voting for Obama. I would have tended to vote Republican in this campaign except if not for the fact that I am persuaded that Obama is not a partisan gamesman. Hillary obviously parses the partisan corridor. With a cleaver.

I believe that a vote for Hillary is a vote for Bill, who is genetically incapable of restraining himself. If Hillary gets in office, so is Bill. This would galvanize republicans, of that there is no doubt. This will turn off those independents who do not want to see Bill return to 'office'.

Furthermore, there are very real considerations that Obama may present at least a perceptual difference in so far as the Middle East is concerned.

If Obama is not the Democratic nominee and McCain is the Republican nominee and picks a good running mate, say Lindsey Graham or even Joe Lieberman, I would vote Republican. I would only vote for Hillary if the Republicans put up somebody ridiculous like Huckabee or Guiliani.

In a time when America really needs "fixed". I just cannot see why so many of you support Hilary, a divider. What about the future? Do we just want another politician who can play the "game" of politics? She will not get my caucus vote. Obama gets my support!

Hillary is right, no matter how wonderful and happy Obama wants to make things sound, the Dems will always be the Dems and the GOP will always be the GOP. It will be and always has been a FIGHT. And if Obama were to get the nomination he would FIGHT with the GOP candidate as much as Hillary would. So this non-partisan rubbish is just an example of Barack Obama's useless rhetoric.

Hillary Clinton has it right. She knows there'll be a fight, she knows how to take them on, she's done it before and she's willing to do it again.

HILLARY '08

You know this CNN, you know she won this debate and I think a lot of people would appreciate of this political ticker was not so anti-Clinton lately.

I don't want to have to do the unthinkable. I'm not prepared to go to Fox for my news just yet!

A lot of people are trying to still like you CNN, be fair. Obama doesn't have a halo above his head!

Obama clearly lost the SC debate. He fumbled around badly on most of the Questions and definately lied when he said he didn't praise Ronald Reagan. I've seen that quote played and replayed and Obama did praise the republicans and Ronald Reagan. Sen Clinton's Reference to Tony Rezco who is a key Obama supporter who is now facing an indictment on money laundering among other things, was a comment and an issue that will dog Obama even more now that sen. Clinton raised this issue publically.
The right-wing spinners are clearly spinning that Hillary lost. but that was just not true. Hillary kicked Obama hard with the Rezco reference and that will raise the question nationally. Ultimately that will hurt Obama as people examine the issue with respect to Obama's character.

To win the election decisively, we need more than to just fight against Republicans. That's old politics, and it has not worked for the Democrats in the last 8 years. What we need to do is ENGAGE republicans, the ones who are disillusioned with how their party has failed in terms of the economy, the war, healthcare, and other issues. These republicans are already voting in Democratic primaries, and they are the key to winning the presidency. Moreover, bipartisanship is essential to getting anything done in our country….gridlock has gotten us nowhere!! We are one nation, and we will not continue to grow and evolve as such if we continue to reinforce divisions that have become almost tribal in nature.

Obama-Edwards 08

Out with the old: the Clintons and in with the new: Obama!

You are all right. Hillary has the experience to take on the Republican machine. And of course Bill will be there to help her, just like she was there for him when he ran. Clinton has what it takes to take on McCain and their value system. For Obama to think he can bridge gaps with the conservatives who do not like social progression and shows inexperience. We don't want a president who offers an elequent utopia but cannot deliver. I believe Americans want a leader who can lead on day one. Clinton 08!

Hillary is speaking in the same old White House republican language which isn't about change, just more of the same. She is not progressive enough for my vote and I don't need a nurse who will nurse the same old system.

Fighting the republicans will be as counter productive a way of running the government next year and the years after as it has been since Bill Clinton was elected in 1992. As a nation, we have problems to be solved and none of them will be resolved if the central strategy of any future White House is to fight the other party. The way of tomorrow is not 8 more years of combative Billary, we deserve Obama's formula. There is something subliminal behind both Hillary and Obama's messages: Clinton assumes her arch enemies will be seated in the same levels of power as they are today, Obama clearly envisions a better class of legislators after this year's election.

I think that if Hillary wins the nomination she will have her work cut out, not only to win the Presidency but to govern effectively.

I have followed her campaign and even supported her, but I will say that while I recognize her experience of being near the Presidency for eight years and her many years of service, my support was/is because I always felt that President Bill Clinton would be there to assist and give guidance. I know many of you have felt the same way.

I appreciate President Clinton working hand in hand in the past with President Bush Senior, that is the kind of leadership that I can be proud of, Bravo to the two Presidents, this grain of sand noticed

But as we moved thru the Campaign, something happened in my thought process. In watching Senator Obama, in contrast to Hillary, I started seeing and understanding that what I want is a "party blind" President.

This is tough to do, our culture has us putting people in boxes from an early age, we cloud and taint issues because as soon as we find out that someone fits in one of our little boxes, race, religion, gender, party, class, etc… we subconsciously and even consciously make adjustments to our thinking, we pollute the potential. It is an ignorant and dysfunctional way to think, and I too am guilty.

What I am re-training myself to do is to cut through it and focus on the issues. It is not easy, but not to, is ignorance. Ignore…ance Ignore the facts.

I Want a President that when he/she looks into the Congress, she/he sees American Congress people, not party. It is a tall order, but I am convinced that if our country does not unite as Americans first, then we will have more of the same grid-lock. The rest of the world will enjoy passing us as we fight within our own family.

Party is fine, when at the party, but when you are with the country then the country comes first, and that to me means looking thru the bias and looking at the issues together.

We all work in various businesses that require that we work with people from many different backgrounds. The ones that succeed are the ones that stretch their sincere hand out to all their team mates and solve problems by inclusion and consensus. I commend those in office that reach across party lines. That is what represents the majority of our country. I want a President that refuses to recognize a member of congress by their party, but to recognize him or her by their first name. That is what we do in our jobs, and it brings us closer.

If I am the leader in my household and I resolve my issues, but some of my family members suffer from unresolved issues, have I really gained, am I really happy, and most importantly have I governed effectively?

So If I get my issues addressed to favor me, but half of my country suffers, do I even have a country, a strong "United" States of America. I know that this thinking is an extremely tall order, and that is why we should strive to it.

Like many people, I have changed in life, I would like to think that life's experiences have done this. Nothing is more important than Wisdom, with it we can solve almost anything. Experience without it, is a loosing proposition. Frankly it is better to not have experience and to have wisdom, the ability to see the big picture and make good decisions.

My BIG CONCERNS with Senator Clinton at this point is that I sense that she has anger in her heart from the partisan battles of the past, and probably rightly so. But I believe it is difficult at best to stretch your hand out for unity, while angry at the same time. It is evident by the tone, zingers and darts that fly from her mouth to the Republicans. That is not a sign of strength, great leadership and strength controls the thoughts and finds common ground with a kind heart where possible.

I am not suggesting that she roll-over. I am clarifying what I perceive as true leadership, and what will work best for the good of the entire family (The Untitled States of America). She must release this animosity yesterday and honestly reach across the isle far and wide if she wants to fix America.

Yes we all have our issues from left to right from Black to White from Religion to Science, Woman to Man and Child to Adult. But I know that what our family wants our elected officials to do, is to save our family first, that is the first issue, Unity of America. Otherwise we will not have a family/country to resolve the other issues about.

This ability to see in color/party blind and see where most people are coming from is what I currently believe is one of Obama's gifts, this to me is a uniting factor. Someone once told me you can teach people techniques but you cannot teach them talent, it comes from within.

I love my fellow Americans, and with you will continue to watch, keep an open mind and hope that the folks that are running for President will grow in wisdom.

It will play out, and we Americans will choose the right person to lead our family, the "United" States of America regardless of party or any other box.

Yes fight the fight but do it with class. Such as Edwards has. I my book she needs to get out and let others that have an Idea how to fix instead of saying 35 years and Day one is not what American needs it needs to know how they are going to fix the prooooooblem. She needs to take responsiblity for her roll in the 8 years that Bil was in. She could not get health care in place still does not tell her plan and who supports her on the other side.

The problem with Obama's approach is that saying, "we need to unify and get things done" by bringing in Republicans and Independents is that he is counting on their forgetting about the very important issues on which parties differ – they are going to be saying, "Hey the dems have the house and senate and then the presidency, uh oh!" It is going to be a divided electorate. This thought that somehow Obama will change the face of politics from now until November is misconceived. People talk about the Clinton machine, but the nominee must face the Republican machine and it will bury him. If McCain is the nominee it will be a fight for any of the Dems so we have to figure out who will fight best.

Hillary 08
Obama 16

The question that you've asked is exactly why americans consistently view Hillary as a very DEVISIVE person, and it's also why many of the especially independents will either stay out of the general election, or vote republicans, if she wins. Thee very opposite will happen if a bridge builder like Sen Obama gets the nomination.

The Republican party is salivating in anticipation for Hillary to win the Democratic Primary.

I listened last week to Progressive Talk Radio with Ed Schultz.. I forgot the name of the Republican Strategist, but, Ed Schultz asked him the following question: Who would the Republicans want to run against for the Presidency?. His response was " I ashamed to say this, but, it would be Hillary Clinton". He then proceeded to explain that Hillary has a track record that the Republicans will use to galvanize their constituency against her. He stated that Obama does not have the history and length of time in politics that would allow the Republicans to use it against him.

I want someone in this office who is thorough, thoughtful, intelligent and willing to go across the aisle to get things done in this country. I believe there are many Republicans in this country who love it like the rest of us. I believe they also want us to compromise and unify to strengthen our country at home and abroad.

She is tough! I like it.

Obama should have hit her on selling the Lincoln bedroom and the fact that some of her financial supporters are in Jail, but either way, this was a great debate.

Let's start with her own morality and I'm not even going to touch her husband (no pun intended) with a ten foot pole. She lacks the morality that women, young democrats regardless of their gender, and people can believe in. No one involved in the conflicts in the Middle East will be willing to deal with her with that double-speak, partisan talk. She lacks the ability to debate with regard to the economy or things that matter- our own country's defense or illegal immigration. She does a wonderful job; however, at throwing her "sixteen years of experience" in our face. I just wonder how much of that time was spent cleaning the oval office.
As a young, republican woman, I can honestly say that she lacks the luster or wherewithall for our country, she lacks the knowledge and experience we need to lead this country.
Without her "experience" in health- care/ the Childrens' Defense Fund, would she have a place in this election??? As an educator and a believe in human rights, I say, stop taking votes away from Obama. If Democrats/ women/ Latinos want someone to believe in then their best bet is with Obama. If I were a Democrat, my vote would be with him, but McCain will eat BILLARY ALIVE. Leave the drama for your mama and vote Obama!

Clinton supporters are throwing smoke all over the place. The chance that a Republican will win in the general election is, at least right now, small. So trying at this point to nominate based on who can beat who is the wrong thing to do. Also, how is it that McCain will eat Obama alive and not Hillary? Is it because, AGAIN, McCain is white and Obama is not? Secondly, Obama is the only candidate who can become a uniter for the country. Hillary will definitely NOT. Thirdly, If Hillary is elected president, it'll definitely be business as usual. If Obama is elected, at least America has a chance to come out of the current miserable status quo.

the real winner is John Edwards, he maintained the Dignity like a President should and would under fire from both sides.

Hillary got slammed in this debate. She was shown to distort the truth on several occasions… this was a great debate for Obama.

I htink edward benefits most tonight afetr sucha personal fight between clintons and obama.
The republican likes this a lot
they may say" keep going like this my friend".
the clintons need to "chill out"

Partisan politics didn't get us universal health care in the 90s. What makes Hillary think that partisan bickering will get us universal health care now?

Has no-one learned??? They said the same thing about Hillary running in NYC (about hatred and division)…I am tired of dems with no spinal cord…or some sort of "hand ringing/above the fray" strategy. Remember 2004? Remember John Kerry? It didn't work with 'rising above' SwiftBoat and it won't work in whatever la-la-land most libs live in!!! No one knows how to win like the Clintons and I am proud that we finally have someone not afraid to dirty their hands. You think the repubs will play nice come the fall??

Obama is too weak on National security. the republicans will eat him up. He is not tough enough. The hope speeches won't help him in the general.

From the 1st half of the debate, it is obvious who loves to play status-quo politics and cares more about slinging dirt than discussing what matters to Americans at this moment in time. Hillary will bring nothing but mistrust and angry division in any office she is in. We cannot afford this behavior at this time. We need someone to unify and build our country up from a very weakened state. Hillary will only DIVIDE the country much, much further. National and financial security is at stake.

Obama has nothing but the ability to give good speeches. Other than that talent, there isn't much else. He stumbles when it comes to policy, because he doesn't know where he stands from one day to the next. Hillary has the strength, experience and ideas to lead this country. People may not like her, but she can and will make a great president.

Obama clearly lost the SC debate. He fumbled around badly on most of the Questions and definately lied when he said he didn't praise Ronald Reagan. I've seen that quote played and replayed and Obama did praise the republicans and Ronald Reagan. Sen Clinton's Reference to Tony Rezco who is a key Obama supporter who is now facing an indictment on money laundering among other things, was a comment and an issue that will dog Obama even more now that sen. Clinton raised this issue publically.
The right-wing spinners are clearly spinning that Hillary lost. but that was just not true. Hillary kicked Obama in the b**ls with the Rezco reference and that will raise the question nationally. Ultimately that will hurt Obama as people examine the issue with respect to Obama's character.

I'm a devoted republican but Obama will get my vote should he be your nominee. I would not vote for another Clinton dynasty…. such a witch.

Ellen, how can you back Hillary in that statement? Of course we need someone who is tough under pressure. Do you think Hillary is tough under pressure? Please correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't Hillary in tears just a few days ago?

Lets talk about important issues, like why do the Democrats only speak of troops in Iraq, but make no effort to mention troops in other countries such as Japan, South Korea, Germany etc. Yes we are in a war, but when has the world not been in war in some way. Lets be reallistic here, we all want peace but until we have people that won't kill themselves to kill others that isn't going to change.

The last time I checked Hillary has been in the Senate for the last 8 years. Where was the other 8 years she talks about. Being the wife of a president does not make you a politician. Apparently she spent those 8 years allowing her home to get out of control. Imagine what she would do with our country!

Will she continue to play "the game" if elected.

Isn't that how we've gotten into the mess we're in – with Congress and the President both rushing to the bottom of approval ratings barrel?

I really *really* fear for the generation after me. We had it bad ('why pay taxes to educate someone else's kid' was the mantra), but once the baby boomers get fully into power, they are going to shore up their Social Security funds, since they are retiring over the next ten years, and that will come at the expense of funding for schools, grade and collegiate levels, not to mention health care and housing problems. Someone's got to keep an eye out for the kids.

I'm sorry Hillary – I'm a female, but I'm also one of those bitter Gen X'ers. But I'm going to put together what few shreds of optimism I have left, and vote with the Gen Y'ers for Obama and a fresh start.

Game Over.

The difference between Hillary & Obama is simple: Hillary will divide the country and Obama will bring us = Republicans, Democrats and Independants, together.

Hillary's partisan and divisive tone will not serve the party well in the general election. This is NOT what people want and will not bridge what has become the nasty political tenor that has now caused complete policical gridlock and few constructive solutions. It is congress all over again. We will loose with her.

This debate(?) was the most poorly organized and managed to date. It seems to me that neither Obama nor Clinton could follow the rules in the beginning of the show. I had expected to hear a DEBATE on the issues and the way they expected to implement their ideas. Very disappointed in CNN. It seemed the moderator had more interest in continuing the accusation than providing a platform of ideas.

I'm an independent voter who has voted for Bill Clinton in the 90s and Republican the last two elections. I have always wished to have a candidate that integrates the facets of both parties that I like. I have yet to decide which way I will vote in the next election (republican or democrat). But what I do know is that I am tired of the same old partisan politics and looking for something different. In a general election, you will find there are a lot of independents and that the independent group of voters could sway the election one way or the other. Partisan politics may not always be the answer.

Hillary is incredibly divisive. Do we really want another bull-headed president? It is cynical to write that Obama could not win the general election. He could.

Talk or no talk…. she knows what she is talking about and can get things done !!!

Why aren't we wary of this Family Dynasty leadership mentality that we are buying into? Haven't we had enough already? Is this what we mean by change?

It's great to finally see Senator Obama stand up for himself against the Clinton machine. Obama 08!!!

Barack Obama is the true uniter. America can't get anywhere if we always think it's us against them. He's the one with the true track record of uniting sides.

We all know how devisive Hill-Billies can be. Many Democrates will vote for MCCain before they EVER vote for to put the Hill-Billies back in office!! This is the Dem's election to lose and if Monika and the strained dress becomes the general election topic, all change voters in this election will vote for MCCain!

What's wrong with that? Standing up against the Republicans? Do we really expect Hillary to say, "I will not fight these Republicans who brought us to war, brought us recession 2x, 7 years of misery?"

I remember in 2000 – Rev. Jackson said Bush=Recession, so "stay out of the Bushes." And I remember Al Gore wanting to have the "lockbox" to keep the surplus. And the media and the GOP made fun of his "lockbox." And both Rev. Jackson and Al Gore are geniuses now. Oh, well. So much for good memories.

C'mon, everybody. Vote for Hillary just to shock Rove and Bush and Rummy! That will be fun! 8 Clinton golden years, 8 Bush recession years, then boom – the people voting to get the Clintons back. That will make Rove really, really miserable.

But with all the nasty messages here, I might just really vote for McCain – and in the GOP primaries – we will all say – 4 MORE YEARS!

The Republicans will destroy Hillary if she is elected. More importantly, any center-leaning-undecided voter who voted Republican in the past will run in the other direction and vote Republican if Hillary is the nominee.

She constantly proves this by distancing herself from "the Republicans" during every single debate. Bad idea, Hillary.

Hillary has shown over and over again that she has a clear plan to move this
country forward. There are times that Obama is a little unclear about his plans.
With the state that the country is in, we need some one who has a valid plan
for the country. I believe at this point in time Obama is not ready to lead this
great country back to where it is respected by Americans as well as everyone internationally.

SURE, EVERYBODY SAYS THEY ARE GOING TO DO THIS AND THAT , BUT WHEN THEY GET IN, NOTHING GETS ACCOMPLISHED TO HELP THE POOR PEOPLE. ALL OF AMERICA NEEDS A LEADER THAT WILL BE TRUTHFUL, HONEST AND GET THINGS DONE!!!!!!!!!!!! SO GO HILLARY OR EDWARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Unfortunately Hillary would have by far the hardest time getting any support from unhappy republicans that might cross party lines . Barack Obama has the unique position of the admiration of both republicans and democrats . He will unite the country better than any other democrat or republican and this is why he will become not only our democratic nominee but our President!!!!!

Mom for Obama

The election won't be decided by Democrat or Republican voters, but by the infamous INDEPENDENT swing voters. I seriously doubt those independents would vote a divider like Hillary into the White House. We've had 7 years of extremely divisive politics under Bush/Cheney. What we need is someone who can bring the country back together, not more of the partisan politics.

Don't people realize that a huge number of folks HATE Hillary Clinton and everything she stands for. Just like a huge number of folks HATE George Bush and what he stands for. We need someone who can compromise and bring both sides together. In my opinion, Obama would have the best shot at achieving this.

exactly the reason that she is the wrong choice! I'm sick of fighting and want some action that is positive for the country. Another thing that Hillary keeps saying is that she is the most experienced. From what I can see her experience has been on the coattails of her husband who's term was bogged down in scandal. She has just a couple of years more Senate experience than either Obama or Edwards. Gove me a break. She is mean spirited and divisive.

Are any of you really listening to what the country wants? We are tired of divisiveness, fighting and not getting anything done in congress. At least one candidate, Obama is courageous enough to engage Republicans as well as Democrats. Lets get real. it will take all of us to get this country out of this mess we are now in. And somebody needs to reel Bill Clinton in if we want to beat the Republicans in the general! And to think I was a Clinton supporter…

Hilary has the strenght to fight whoever the Republican candidate is. I do not think Obama can lead America by preaching. A president has to take tough decisions, and I think Hilary will take them more than Obama or Edwards.

It is apparently clear that this is a good heated debate, reflecting upon the strengths, vulnerabilities and the audacity of truth. Senator Clinton has and continues to clearly demonstate that she could go into the Oval Office tomorrow and handel the myriad of challenges confronting our nation. These are difficult times, with a dire economy, foreign policy challenges that mandate a leader with confident direction based on experience, and a critical healthcare situation.

To the good Americans of the United States of America, think of some of the worst situations possible that could happen, economically, internationally, healthcare wise et al. WHO WOULD YOU TRULY WANT TO BE IN OFFICE?

It is extraorindary that the great United States of America allows candidates to speak so freely. It is my sincere wish that we can keep it that way and look to all of the candidates' records, experience and significant achievements.

From Deborah in New York

Hillary will lose in the general election to John McCain. McCain is a straight-talker, he will attract Independents, he has better experience than Hillary and she, no matter how often she has a "Misty moment" will not build a coalition of voters big enough to.

Obama can….he pulls from all factions and would do so in the general election.

Obama, like Reagan, will bring people together….Hillary is divisive.

The debate nearly got to the heart of the matter with regard to specific programs proposed by the candidates; but moderators never hold the focus and permit the candidates to devolve into platitudes about what's good for America.

What are the new entitlements going to cost and how are they going to be paid for?

Will someone please tell me what 16 years or 35 years, she referenced. Hillary is speaking of her time as first lady. Since when did being first lady count for political experience to be the president. She supported Goldwater which aren't the views of Dr King. Hillary is banking off blacks being loyal instead of intelligent. Blacks need to see the clintons for who they are. She's no more qualified than anyone else to be president. She's the only first lady who didn't get her agenda approved. Health care system will bankrupt the country and still not have everyone covered. Let's be serious about national security. President Clinton let our navy ship get bombed and never once reacted. Soliders kill in saudi arabia complex and he never responded. That's the national security she will provide. Barack is lacking in years but is uniting america, which we need. Hillary please lay out this 35 years of work you've done in black and white not just in rhetoric.

Cease and desist with the old, tired, dirty politics and pot shots! Polarizing is the Clinton (and Bush) legacy. Let's make sure it is history! Give us a candidate that can unite and wants to gain consensus and collaboration.

Why does Hillary get a free pass on Social Security? She's against privitizing accounts but fails to say how she'll continue to pay for it.

I wish Barack and John would have pushed her more on SS. She just sits back and points out the problems but fails to offer solutions.

Obama believes in unification and Hilary believes in fighting… seems to me if Hillary takes office will there be a war to get our troops home? If Obama can't get unification as he is hoping to achieve, how will he run the country? What will his new agenda be?

I, a 50 year old, US born, taxpayer, is fed up with the government system. What have they done for me besides raise my taxes and tell me what I can and cannot do? It doesn't matter if it's the U.S. or NY State. The system is broken. I live in NY and we go democratic every presidential election, so my vote does not mean ANYTHING.. What we need is alternative parties separate from democrats and republicans that actually stand a chance. This country is controlled by the few, not the many. In Erie County in NYS, the #1 employer is the government, what's that tell you? We have more politicians than we have people to pay taxes. Every time someone goes into office to make a change, they get chewed up and spit out by the democrat and republican parties. It's time our government starts working for the American people and not themselves.

Hillary, was clearly the one who gave the best answers on the questions. Obama is no match for McCain. Hillar is the 'man' to take McCain on.

Obama can not function under pressure, that much is clear. Edwards should drop out.

Go Hillary!

The media is so biased against Hillary. Only she can win a general election. Hillary 2008.

only post first names.

We aren't in the general election yet…that's the point! I want to best Democrat in the office of POTUS…not a closet Republican. The term 'Obamicans' is patently offensive at this stage of the game..to me, personally, it's offensive at any stage of the play.

Go Hillary!!!!!! Obama is a bag of wind and thinks that what he says is right and everyone else is wrong. He was even disrespectful to Wolf Blitzer and not shutting up when Blitzer was trying to move on. Had to have the last word. He brought up the race card a long time ago. Its more important for him to be the 1st
"black" president rather than put the American people first and come up with some ideas he can back up.

Hillary is right. We do have to fight the Republicans. Obama can the republicans. He can "inspire" people. And that's what we need a President who will lead thought ANd action, who will be tough under pressure and is the best ambassador for the AMERICAN brand abroad. He is a thinker. He's is overwhelmed by emotions. He's cool and in control.

I am a little tired of hearing Senator Obama speak as if the mere fact of him being "new" and untested that he will be able to fundamentally change the political dialog in Washington and actually accomplish something! Perhaps I'm a little jaded having gone thru the 60's, 70's and 80's, (yes, I AM a boomer and PROUD OF IT!). I have SEEN and lived thru Washington "outsiders" who promise to "remake" Washington. Politicians who disparage "politics" speak as if they can singlehandedly change the system without cost and rule by wishing it.

I believe it takes WORK. Commitment, desire. drive, political skill, the ability to find common ground with those they may passionately disagree with while maintaining focus on their long term goals………..in short, POLITICS.

I'm supporting Senator Clinton for President. I've had EIGHT years of watching and living through inept, incompetent, leadership. I want a leader who has the ability, intelligence and commitment to LEAD this country through the challenges that lie ahead of this country. In MY opinion, the best candidate by FAR is Senator Clinton.

I agree with Ellen!

she speaks of change. she has already been in the white house once. and the only policy i remember having any thing to do with her is health care…. that went well.

i think she is too partisan to win and too partisan to bring anyone but extreme liberals to the polls. there are people who will actually vote against her, obama and edwards cant say that. we dont need another person in the white house who is so closely related to someone who already was.

It's a shame that many of you think this is about beating the Republican when the REAL FIGHT is about UNITING THE COUNTRY. Beating the Republicans will only produce another four years of polarizing politics. The only person who can truly do this is not Hilary who knows she and her hubby are well hated. It's Obama!

If anyone thinks that these debates are rough just wait until the campaign before the general election. Hillary makes no apology for being partisan. She knows the history of ideas she represents and makes no apology.

I for one, will vote Republican if Hillary is the Democratic nominee, and I know many others who have said the same. I am an independent voter and will NOT vote for Hillary.

I think Hillary speaks very intelligently and does not stumble on her words. She speaks with conviction…not stuttering and stepping on her words like Obama. I think she has the most experience, already has a good relationships with foreign dignitaries. I think she has the American values in mind and has the ability to push for these values to come to fruitiion. I hope that Oprah followers do NOT follow her to the polls!

After this debate, I am much closer to declaring that I will not vote for Hillary Clinton if she wins the nomination. The War in Iraq and a few other issues may force me to cast a begrudged ballot hypothetically, but I was appalled by some of her comments and attacks during this debate.

This argument about experience is really getting old. If I am a corporate CEO and my wife has attended functions with me, met key people and had discussions with me does not make her qualified to takeover as CEO of my company. It would be the same if she were CEO and I were her spouse. I need to know what she did other than fail getting healthcare done. If she is going to talk about "our record" then own that on your record you signed NAFTA that let to taking thousands of jobs out of this country. If you want to take the good from the Clinton years, you have to also own the bad because the Republicans will use it against you.

Hillary has the experience, the chirisma, the ability to gain the trust of ALL Americans, and has proven (and will continue to prove), that she can work with the Republicans and bring about positive change.
If Obama were President, his inexperience would put our country at a disadvantage while we would be negatively positioned to allow him time for his learning curve…

Hillary Clinton to me has shown that she does have compassion for the people of this country and I do believe she is sincere on getting our troops out of Iraq and back home. It may take a little longer than what EACH of the candidates claim they can do it in, but I do believe the Democrats are the ones that can get our troops back. Hillary is for medical reform which our country needs badly. She is also focused on making things better for the poor and the middle class of this country. Out of all of the Democratic candidates Hillary has the experience and the drive. I believe that Obama also has compassion for the people of this country, but with him, I wonder what will happen with the middle class. And John Edwards, the only reason he is in there is to get the votes that would be taken from Hillary or Obama. Hillary has the political experience behind her and I believe that she would stand firm and do what is right for our Country.

Obama did great tonight. He can bring people together! And he can be a great President.

Obama is apparently alenating the democratic base by trying to appease the republicans at this stage of the election. this strategy might hurt him.

There is no quit in Hillary! Thats for sure. The Democrats need a fighter going into the General Elections. Republicans will pull out every dirty trick, spear tactic, lies, and swift boating attacks known to mankind.

Hillary will take them on every step of the way. Point is, the Democrats need to support and fight every step of the way to ensure another Bush lite or worse Republican does not get back into the White House. The U.S. nor the world can afford nor endure another Republican President in the White House.

Hillary is the consumate career politician and her rhetoric speaks directly against her record. Her husband's presidency (which she attempts to claim as experience) did nothing but weaken this country and bring corruption to an all time new high. We do need changes but at the expense of national security? Is this where we want to go next?

Bring on McCain – I'll take his straight talk and record of honest service over a manipulative win at all costs liar (married to a liar) only to shred the documents later!

I dont believe that Hillary is, will be or use partisanship as her foremost strategy for effecting change. This is where she is fundamentally different from Obama. Hillary will first fight unilaterally to push her change agenda and when it doesnt pass, she will retract and seek a concensus. But Barack Obama will in his foremost steps use CONSENSUS to pursue his change agenda.

Overall, there is not much difference (apart from the clinton's mudslinging of obama) between Hillary and Obama. Matter of fact, they are saying the same thing and have a similar political record.

Any chance Ms. Clinton had for my vote was lost during tonight's debate. I have zero patience for "cheap shots" and what I witnessed tonight were many thrown by her towards Senator Obama. I want to hear FACTS! I want to hear ISSUES! I do not want to hear distorted representations of another candidate's voting record! I do not want to hear comments taken out of context! Her behavior during tonight's debate was a disgrace. If she is elected my expectation would be that she tells the American people similar distorted truths whenever she needs their support.

Hillary Clinton does one thing better then anyone else………….she DIVIDES the country. (Sic)

It would be another four years just like the Bush administration, partisanship so bad that nothing will get done during another administration.

I was so excited at the beginning when she announced she was going to run. But her campaign along with the Bills co-campaign of getting back in the Whitehouse and the rovian type tactics has completely eroded my respect for her.

Amen James Brown. She is no different than Karl Rove in that she divides in order to gain power.

CNN loves Clinton

I disagree that republicans wouldn't vote for a democrat. This is hands down the election where republicans would vote for a democrat if they are the best candidate (this is coming from a man who has voted republian his entire life and is now confidently standing behind Obama).

It seems desperate that Hillary continues to attack Barack. She would win points with me, but I won't vote for someone who is just bashing her nearest competitor. Focus on what is pertinent and stop putting political spin on your competitors, I say.

Once again Clinton plays the political game. Talk about the issues in a positive way. she continues to play the republican game of smear and mud slinging at everyone around her. Will she give a clear answer on what role Bill will play in her administration? Will she release her documents showing what she did as first lady that rates as a political accomplisment. How does she expect to win an election when 40-45% of the people have stated that they will never vote for her.

James Brown — you are spot on. Except that I will add that I also think she's dividing the party!

Concerning the earlier response about a Republican voting for a Democrat. I used to be a Republican. Unfortunately I have seen the repercussions of the current administration's policies and the effects of the "not to be named" recession. So I am looking very closely at the Democrats. I was however disappointed in how several times they were fighting each other and not truly debating the issues.

I would vote republican before I vote for Hillary.

I feel that am your average conservative voter facing an interesting delima this year. I am strongly motivated, and intent, on voting the Democratic agenda this year. I am tired of the Bush years, and I am equally adverse to returning to the Clinton years. As a result, I now see myself as someone who now represents 2 votes this year. If Clinton is the Democrative nominee, I vote Republican regardless of the candidate. If Clinton is not the nominee, I vote Democratic, regardless of who is the candidate. As I see it, that means I represent 2 votes against Clinton.

Am I alone?

The upcoming national election will be significantly impacted by independent and Republican voters who have become disenchanted with their party due to the "Bush era." A leader who wants a unified country who respects and wants to win the vote of every single person in this country, regardless of whether they are hard leaning Democrats or Republicans will be a candidate that can seriously win a national election. Obama '08!

Clinton got 49% of the Michign vote last week 51% of Dems went out in the cold to vote aginst her, becouse Obama and Edwards were not on the ballot. Anyone that thinks she will win must be hoping the mayor of New York will inter the race.

This coming election is the MOST IMPORTANT one of all time. Make your vote count! Tonight's debate was excellent by all 3 candidates. John McCain will be the GOP one to beat. I am a black female, age 64, and remember the Rosa Parks issue and JFK and Dr King. I believe a change in the white house to a female will be most beneficial to our Country, as exPresident Clinton can be called on at any time for his expert advice. I feel John Edwards would make an excellent VP. We need a person who can beat McCain! Hillary gets my vote in a great debate.

Hillary–old school partisan politics as usual. You only have to look as far as the backdrop of people she had behind her at the Iowa caucas speech. She refers to her "years of experience" but incorporates Bill's years in the White House as part of that experience. Sometimes its difficult to tell WHO is really running for the Presidency–Hillary or Bill! Barack Obama at least appears to have the fundamental goal of returning the government to the people.

John Edwards has shown a grasp of the terrible problems facing America. Barack Obama does not have the grasp or experience needed to deal with the horrible mess that the president we are currently forced to accept will be leaving. Hillary Clinton would have a difficult time overcoming the prejudice of the many American men who still feel the female populace is incapable of moving in any direction except the kitchen.I fear the republican nominee would be elected to the final destruction of our America

Senator Obama is the only candidate who can and will bring change. Ex presisdent Bill lies about about Barak's position on the war and Hilary swears to it. It's politics as usual if she wins. I am devoted democrat who can't believe the extent of her willingness to deliberately mischaracterize Barak's position on the war. She's either incapable of listening or lying. Her pointed comments to Barak about the war are divisive and make me rethink whether I can vote for her if she the party's candidate.

Hillary needs to show that a woman (without her husband going out and attacking other candidates) can represent her own ideals and values. I'm glad to see a woman candidate, but…let's see HER…not her hubby.

Who is going to pay for the interest rate cap and the three month freeze on foreclosures. Is there ever going to be a time that people pay consequences for poor choices like sub-prime loans or not managing your finances.

Reading these posts is a bit ridiculous. I'm a Democrat, but to be so partisan that you vote based upon who can beat the Republicans is on the verge of being anti-democratic. The whole basis for our democracy is to vote for the best candidate, regardless of anything but the issues. Politics are the past the point where they can be played as though they are some partisan game with the Democrats facing off with the Republicans. We are past the point for partisan politics as these are extremely trying times. And for anyone to think that Clinton will face off well with a Republican, thats just naive. McCain resonates very well with moderates and independents, especially younger moderates and independents. Clinton might have a stronger base of support within her party, but you better believe that Clinton running for the White House will rile up some strong Republican support for McCain.

hillary does NOT win in a general vs. McCain. She beats Huckanut & maybe Romney. she is more of the same negative game. her long winded answers that turned into attacks were too much. Also, the posts by CNN and watching news shows pro-hillary slant…

Hillary absolutely won the debate. Obama could not even keep up – she paused and I I I'd and wait wait wait uh uh uh – speak boy. McCain will chew Obama up.

16 years of experience for Hillary huh…Does this include failing to pass healthcare her one big initiative, and since when does being first lady and conducting book tours qualify as experience?

RE: Hillary has the base.

All three candidates will have the base. George Bush has assured that. The Democrats will come out in full force for the general election. Do you believe Hillary can reach out to Independents? I do not. However, she rightly understands that the primary election is not the time to reach out to them. Obama is trying to establish himself as that candidate, and while it may help him in the general election, it looks like it may hurt him in the primary.

Obama Inspiries others to Action.

the elections
one says they been fighten for 35yrs .If so way are we still dealing with the same issues every 2 and 4 yrs the answer is once the elections are over AND THE $$$
CAMES IN ITS THE PEOPLE WHO ARE THEY

Why would the Republicans Attack Bill's wife for 16 years…did she hold an office of some kind that we didn't know about? And why does she keep referring to battles that she and her husband lost?

what is her exsperince being someones wife and not a good enough of one to keep bill from cheating so then how can she run a country short answer she cant, and I would be araid of someone like her tries to run a country is just as crazy a her

Hillary Clinton understands she is in a primary and needs to appeal more to the Democratic liberal base. When she is nominated, she will moderate her "partisan tone". She knows how to play the political game.

If Bill Clinton really cared so strongly about the country's future as HRC just said, then why didn't he speak out louder in 2002 and 2003 about HIS opposition to invading Iraq? Because his wife was in the Senate and had to count opinion polls, that's why.

Leader shmeader. Give me someone who took the then-less popular position on that most important issue of my lifetime, and who doesn't have oceans of blood on their hands.

I don't get Dem voters who support Iraq war condoners like HRC. Edwards at least denounced his support for it. Greatest catastrophe of our lifetimes, and people actually cheer for HRC, who said "YES" to it? She might have saved tens of thousands of lives and billions of your dollars. She hasn't even said sorry.

This "oh, that's not what the resolution was about" is BS! It was a "yes" to Bush's war, don't kid yourself.

Electing a president who opposed INVADING Iraq in the first place will restore international respect for America.

Simple. Hillary with her partisan politics will simply lose. Why do the math. How many democrats are there in USA? More than 50% of the population. No. Not to mention that she does not have the totality of the registered democrats.

Hillary is the most divisive candidate in the race, on either side. Too many people would vote against her in the general election, regardless of her opponent. Obama would be more able to bring moderates and middle voters into the Democratic camp.

I fear this may get her the nomination but it won't play in a general election. She will unite the Republican party, not the Democratic party. We have suffered through 8 years of a devisive president, we don't need another one. It will turn off independent voters.

Hilary is old fashion and unoriginal and riding the coat tails of last decades president. Look at what Obama has been able to accomplish in a short amount of time. Dem's lost to Republicans two times in a row using Hilary's approach. She doesn't have any idea how to do things differently. The people want Obama, he is the next president.

Two thoughts while watching the "debate":

1. Short version of democrat positions in the debate: we are going to throw money from the rooftops at you if you vote for us. Every crazy program you can think of, we will fund. Thank you for your vote.

2. How they present themselves:

a. Obama and John–thoughtful before answering questions. Seem to be thinking through the response and reaching deeply inside them. Pretty much take the high road. Try to respond to the questions in a creative way while being clear. I would trust them.
b. Hillary—More reactive than thoughtful. Not clear in her presentation. Far more willing to hit below the belt to score points. Working from a list of memorized talking points which may or may not relate to the questions. Terrible. Makes me very uncomfortable to watch her perform, and that is what she was doing–performing.

Hillary & John are teaming up to boot Obama. If Hillary wins John will be vice pres. Hillary and John win the debate, if I hear Obama say the word consistancy one more time I may vomit. Obama is full of empty rhetoric no substance there. I am registered Republican. I hated Hillary before but she is a good debater. I respect her more after listening to her tonight. Obama is over his head. I can't understand why he is getting so many votes.

Obama not looking good at all….wow big disapointment Obama needs to calm down.

I'm a registered republican and I just want to thank you Democrats for saving our hide this election cycle. A Hillary ticket would be just what we need to finally get our base out in a rough year for conservatives. Hopefully McCain wins the nomination and we'll see once again that only the Democrats are capable of snatching defeat from the jaws of victory! Go Hillary!!

This partisan bickering is what turns me off of politics. I'm t i r e d of it. T I R E D. I don't want to hear about …not only the petty bickering .. but the republican / democratic bickering…

Hilary is old fashion and unoriginal and riding the coat tails of last decades president. Look at what Obama has been able to accomplish in a short amount of time. Dem's lost to Republicans two times in a row using Hilary's approach. She doesn't have any idea how to do things differently. The people want Obama, he is the next president.

My problem with Clinton is her proposal to intervene in the businesses of America. She wants to put a moratorium (delay?) on foreclosures and insist that insurance companies provide coverage for all. Who's paying for it and who's buying it?

Hillary is full of herself. She will loose if she is nominated. Mark my word I know plenty of people including me, who has said they would vote for McCain over her anyday. In polls it has been shown that Obama is the candidate Republicans fear. Why do you think this whole entire time FOX and other repulican media has been talking about running against Clinton, that's because they want to run against her.

If Hillary wins the nomination Republicans will be falling all over themselves to get to the polls to vote against her. They hate the Clintons; Bill will definitely be a liability in a general election.

Fighting the republicans is what democrats have been doing for the last eight years. Where has it gotten us?? Plain and simple folks, republicans and their followers have two of the biggest guns in their pockets: Fear and God. It's time for us to lead us towards a unification. Hillary doesn't have any experience in that. Go Obama O8

Hillary has the most experience and I find it interesting that people are so divided about a woman president – she is intelligent, competent, and would make a great leader for our country.

If the dems HAD to fight on the repubs battlefield, then maybe Hillary would be best–but she wouldnt win.

Repubs are gonna have to fight on dems battlefield, however, so the old fear cards, terrorists card, gay cards, religion cards wont work.

OBAMA proved tonight that he is tough and smart…I loved the heat and the heart of this debate…finally someone who will pull us together….

If Hillary wins the nomination, we are signing ourselves us for a Republican victory. The Republicans want Hillary as the candidate so they can SLAUGHTER her in the media, press and the South. She is a divider…she does not inspire and she represents the policital machine that has made a mess of this country. I'm for CHANGE. OBAMA '08

I'm sure Hillary was in-charge of fighting the repulicans when Bill was president as he was busy in his extra-curriculur activities and Hillary was the one running the show!

Hillary is the best person on this political stage. … and the current politician running for president able to represent my interests and she will win.

The Clinton campaign is built to divide and detour and conquer, with personal attack, innuendos and untruths, rather than debating the issues and differences and advantages that may exist. What really bothers me is that the Clintons don't seem to care that their tactics are divisive and detrimental to race relations, well so much for the Clinton’s love of America, race relations and unity, they have proven themselves to be dividers, and the debris of this lands this month during the celebration of Martin Luther Kings Birthday celebration and amidst the pictures on TV of white supremacist walking around in Jena Louisiana with lynches in their hands, yes this day in over 40 years from the Civil Right movement, January 21, 2008.

Hillary has voted wrong on the war and several other curtial bills, Bill Clinton brought us NAFTA, which has caused Americans hundreds and thousnds of jobs and is threatening to destroy the middle class. Obama is ready, he has the foresight and knows how to make the right choices for all America, Obama is a uniter and can successfully negotiate across the aisles, boarders and the oceans of the world.

Apropos of Dr. King…they all forgot that Dr. King was also a man of peace – that was a key to his ability to inspire- acrimony was not the method – peace was – where was peace withint he ranks of our damocratic contenders? Sad….as a liberal dmeocrat I was saddened by this debate.

This shows the true nature of Hillary, and perhaps the other, they are more interested in pushing the stature of the Democratic Party, and them as the head, rather than the best interest of the country.

Democracy is not in their best interest. Hillary does not want to accept that a representative conservative majority is valid. Her goal is to work for a sixty percent democrat majority, so that she can push "her" agenda through.

It is one thing to have a belief, and then to encourage others to see it oriher way, but if the majority sees it one way, then the President should represent the majority.

Hillary would definately use other means to subvert the majority.

Edwards and Clinton! Loved them both.

Hillary is the only one that really has a plan to improve this coountry.

Hillary is shrill. I am an independent. I hope Democrats have higher aspirations and can help the country by denouncing her.

We don't want someone who will work with the Republicans. We dont like the Republicans. We want someone who can beat the Republicans.

Get a life, Schneider. Every election is a fight. Even the Scriptures say, "fight the good fight." Have you or any other talking heads from CNN complained about the hostile, indeed vicious, "fighting" the Republicans always do? No! Because somehow you want Democrats to engage in unilateral disarmament–and the only reason you'd want Democrats to be the only ones to that disarm must be that you want to do whatever you can to elect Republicans.

After 16 years that has made both Clintons flashpoints for the right wing machine, why do we want her to run a country that will continue to be divided. This needs to end. They need to retire to the Presidential Library, write books and build houses with the Carters. There is a time for people in politics to go to pasture. After watching these two people I respect go back in the gutter more bitter and angry than ever, it saddens me to think they sounded just like Barrack Obama sixteen years ago. It saddens me even more to think the case they are making against Barrack Obama is the same case their enemies levied against them. The time has come for them to go and the voters will, one way or another, show them that door.

Look people, politics is about lies. Both are taking shots..however I applaud Obama. He finally started shooting back at the Clinton machine. Understand I loved Bill when he was president. Now he cannot run for his wife! Take a step back!

We have had two decades of the Bush's and Clinton's—it is time for a change.
Vote for Obama!!!

"Preacher -in-Chief"…that seemed a lot racially motivated. I like Edwards b/c of his fight against poverty point blank.

oh americans….poor americans. i am an austrain..and i think, that mcCain will not eat obama alive…he will eat hillary alive….hillary is not only dividing the country…she is also deviding the blue states in conservative blue states and liberal blue states….
a lot of people here, are saying, that you need to fight the republicans…you don´t really believe, that hillary is able to do so or do you? do you really believe in blue states and red states??? i am an european and i believe in the united states of america. i say, that if hillary clinton is going to be your candidate….your next president will also be a republican….
vote obama…do ist for my old and poor europe….

(sry, for my mistakes…i am not a native speaker)

Partisan voters are standing up for Hillary because that is her stance.

When November rolls around and we have chosen our Democratic candidate. You will see that the "New" voters that have been turning out in every state at the Democratic Primaries will be standing in the same line to vote for a Democratic Candidate that stands for the change from Republican threat of continuing our past.

There will be no division, and with Barack you will certainly see Partisans, Independents, Moderates and far lefts that will stand up and speak their voices to change this country back into one we can be proud of and remember why we were once the most patriotic.

America will make us proud!

Hillary is unpleasant and obnoxious. She will gain NO independent votes.

Obama amabo.

Please, Please, Please, not another 16 years of partisan politics. Hillary will be a magnet for this type of rhetoric. We have all had enough of this and we need someone who will move us forward instead of returninig to the same old negative attacks.

I believe her all the way! Go Hillary!

16 years? What elected or appointed position did HRC hold before becoming (sadly) Senator from my state. This woman's hubris is over the top. How dare she cry her commitment to children and the poor. What about her corporate career at the Rose law firm, Walmart and White Water. And who treated the Lincoln Bedroom like a prize at a golf tournament?

Barack has not talked substance tonight but I do like his attempts to calm himself and his colleagues. I liked John Edwards' substance tonight and again am so puzzled as to why he is not able to get more voters behind him. Hillary still shows the most experience to tackle all that's waiting for our next president….however, her bickering over tiny issues toward Obama has been unflattering…and COULD cost her huge votes.

Ally THANK you for your comment!!! Finally. Bill? Black People? Let's talk about the TANF Act of 1996….Let's talk about the 3 strikes being implemented under the Clinton administration…..Favorable to Black people?? Experience-ready day 1? What type experience? Just asking….she ain't speaking the total truth I tell ya!

Hillary has the experience, the chirisma, the ability to gain the trust of ALL Americans, and has proven (and will continue to prove), that she can work with the Republicans and bring about positive change.

If Obama were President, his inexperience would put our country at a disadvantage while we would be negatively positioned to allow him time for his learning curve…

Where does Hilary come off with this "35 years of experience"? Eight years as the first lady doesn't provide much of a political resume. The ONLY elected office she has EVER had is 7 or 8 years in the Senate!! ANd tonight she actually said "35 years experience IN THE WHITE HOUSE" (check the tapes). I'm sure she just mis-spoke but can't believe the other two candidates gave her a pass on it.

20% of minorities are black, 40% are latino, the rest are multi racial. I think it will be the MAJORITY of Americans that will put the next President into the White House. So, with 8 years of Bill Clinton and SURPLUS Money, a great economy, and a daily fight with Republicans and still leave office with America in a better place than when he took office, do you not think Hillary will have a better chance to run America than Mc Cain or anyone else?

I agree with what Hillary was saying though, that is important to point out Obama's words and then his actions. That as voters we need to look at the candidates records and how they have actually handled the issues they are talking about. I think Hillary is doing a fantastic job. She is so intelligent and such a wealth of knowledge!

I want a President that can get the office cleaned up starting the first day in office. I want Health care and know Hillary is the strong person that can get things done. With the ability to have Dems in the Congress and Senate she will be the best President we ever had. I believe greater then her husban.

Can someone explain her 35 years of experience??

WASN'T SHE JUST ELECTED A US SENATOR 7 YEARS AGO???

My husband is a jet pilot…i don't know how to fly one.

her husband was president, she wasn't.

I like to know how Hillary has "fought" the Republicans for the last 16 years! Since she became senator, she's been mingling in the Republicans' camp most of the time. She's been with Bush on almost all the disastrous foreign policies. What makes her think that she'll be able to lead the US out of this current miserable mess??!! I used to like Bill Clinton a lot, but his last few days' vicious personal attack on Obama, with the sole purpose of only helping his wife, has really turned me off.

look up hillary in Wikipedia, there you will find much insight into her so called 35 years of experience, she is just not a good honest, trustworthy candiate as far as I see the facts, no way i could support her, too many unanswered question hanging in her past.

Bill, You have finally raised something that I think YOU THE MEDIA are overlooking in this campaign. There are Republicans, John McCain. Chuck Hagel, and Jack Warner who are ready and willing to work with the democrats.

BUT Hilliary has been VERY CONSISTENT in speaking about being able to "take on the Republicans" and knows how to "fight the Republicans" I have not heard her once say she will work with the Republicans, indeed it seems if she is elected it will be politics as usual as the two parties will continue to clash. And from the 2000 election, through the 2004 to the 2006, this country is still split right down the middle, so if she is not going to govern working with the opposition, thats a huge problem.

And she is so polirizing that if she is the nominee, I doubt any Republican will vote for her. Not even Republican women. She just now mentioned again her fighting the republicans for 16 years. She is NOT READY to work with the Republicans, Obama on the other hand very much will be.

CNN has given Obama much more time to respond than they have given to Clinton and Edwards. And, he goes on and on and on and actually looses me in the point he is trying to make. He seems out of his league in maturity and experience. I like him but I think he needs a few more years under his belt

If Hillary won the primary NO Republican would want to work with her. Republican's (I'm Independent) have an enormous dislike for her period. That's a HUGE problem. Obama would be a potential bridge builder and folks we simply need that. As for his other policies well you decide but he does seem to have a uniting attitude and abilities.

For all of Obama's talks about bringing the country together, he fails to realize that the Repuglican party doesn't want to come together with Democrats. As Karl Rove once said, he doesn't believe in bipartisanship, he believes in one party rule. That's the way of today's Republican party. If Obama thinks he can bring them together with Democrats, he's just fooling himself. I hope he does not fool a majority of primary voters.

Come November, we will need someone who will fight the Repugs tooth and nail. Only Hillary or Edwards will do it. I'm voting Hillary but will be happy with Edwards. Obama will get crushed by the very people he wants to join together with.

Hilary continues to talk about her "35 years of experience." Near as I can tell, she was an attorney for a few years and then spent quite a long time as First Lady of Arkansas, then First Lady of the United States. Outside of her time as Senator, what the heck is she talking about. There is a debate that she was actually the president and Bill was first gentleman curing the 90's . . .

How did H-dawg and Big O manage to make John Edwards sound like the voice of moderation? Those two need to make peace quick……

Hillary has lost the black vote. She cannot win. Obama on the other hand has the independant vote which will be pivotal if Mitt Romney wins.

It is clear – Obama has NO CLUE! Debate is not his strong suit – he gets caught in his own misstatements! Clinton and Edwards are much stronger!

Hilliary can UNITE all of the Democratic Party as well as the American electorate! He is positive, articulate, and passionate in her positions!

Frankly, I am tired of all the "us against them" mentality. What I and apparently many other people find appealing about Obama is how he speaks about new ideas and change that are not divisive. Of course, the democrats differ in many respects from republicans. However, how you approach those differences and find a consensus is vital. Every republican in the country will show up to vote on election day just to make sure Hillary is not elected. In addition, I have read and heard from many democrats who will either abstain from voting or pull the lever for McCain if Hillary is the democratic nominee. She is loathed by all republicans and many in her own party. She CANNOT win in a general election.

Yes, to Hillary it's just a "game". And that is a shame because there just could be something there if she were not doing all this for herself and her own pride.

If she has done ANYTHING thing why has nothing changed? If she is running on this experience (35 years) then why has nothing changed? Where is the BEEF from Hilary?

Hillary is PLAYING GAMES!!! Who's truly going to give us change? Who's ALREADY doing things differently?! Let's open our eyes and see the TRUTH. I truly believe and trust Obama.

I like seeing that people are getting it- Hilary is playing the game, right from the textbook, it won't stand up to what America wants. She will only divide us further and push us further as a consequence from what needs to be done in this country.

Speaking as someone who worked for the Democratic Party as a strict partisan for three of the past four years, I can say with 100% certainty, I am SICK OF the partisanship. I am so eager to have a nominee who can transcend it, who can build a strong coalition for change that involves Democrats, Independents, and moderate Republicans. I want this more than anything.

THAT'S WHY I'm voting for Obama on Feb 5th.

Hillary Divides? Obama cried racism first, and started this whole thing over actual factual statements that Hillary and Bill stated while correcting him in claiming he was the next MLK.. Obama is not MLK he was not beaten, nor dragged thru the streets, he's never been jailed, and has no idea what MLK experienced! It is one thing to give a great speech…What Obama don't understand is how big of a fight the REPUBLICANS are going to put up over the next year! The Republicans are NOT going to join forces with the Democrats for Obama… They will ruin him as soon as they can! Can we as Democrats not remember what they did to an unexperienced President Clinton and his wife! I want a president that knows how to fight back on DAY ! ! It is going to take experience to get America Changed!

James and Neil your right. Who wants another person in office who thinks they know everything about the game. If you only know that one game how comfortable can she be to try something different. That is what we humans do is to stay in our comfort zone. We need someone new and Obama has been fighting his whole life.

Hillary divides? Obama attacks our party and depends on the sound bites of former democrats? I think Mr. Obama may be the divider that teamed with Mr. Edwards (long time back) to seperate this party. And here we go: Republicans win by the tag team players to divide AMERICA. Mr. Obama seems determined to sway lots of Democrats to gang up and say "yes" to Republicans for another 8 years! Republicans love the passion and lack of experience of Mr. Obama and Mr. Edwards!
Give me a break!

Hillary is the person who, through all the trials public and private, has risen above and given of herself. She has shown that she has the knowledge, the composure, the drive to use her talents to make the changes necessary to make this country better while retaining the good things that we should not throw out. Hillary knows how to work within the national system and internationally. She can get things done as she has been doing as a uniter while a congresswoman and will do when she, HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON, is the first woman to hold the office of President of the United States of America.

I was at the Nevada caucuses this Saturday. Those who came out to support Hillary were intensely supportive of her. I was pleasantly surprised. And the numbers who came out were huge.

In addition to all the Democrats, she will get women in droves.

The only way the Dems will win the election is to play both sides of the aisle. Hillary's demeanor is way too divisive to ever get a Republican vote. Obama is the dem of the future!

Candidates from both parties talk about failures of past and current Presidents. What actions have any of them successfully completed in the past to make the United States a success? If a President fails it is also a failure of the Congress Senate, resulting in the country failing.

God help us if Hillary wins…..

She sure knows how to divide the Democrats.

Obama just lost his campaign not much with his vote but with his answer on 30% rate on credit cards

We need Obama as president to calm the partisan nerves and unite the country.

Billary Clinton for president??? Be for real! Hillary Clinton IS NOT QUALIFIED TO BE PRESIDENT – PERIOD! Just because she slept with the president for 8 years??? Please! The insurance companies are praying that she gets in! OBAMA OR EDWARDS BUT GOD NOT HILLARY!!!!!

I honestly don't believe Hillary Clinton on the topic of the Iraq war and her husband's close relationship with George Bush Sr. She voted to send us into that war without first doing her homework, which obviously needed to be done seeing just how many from the military and intelligence community were insisting that it be done. This is a major leadership failure that must not be overlooked and will not be when it comes time to elect a leader.

We require a leader who is capable of making these tough decisions and we require that they make the right decision the first time. There can be no excuses.

The Democrats have already lost a partisan election twice in the past 8 years. It is insane for Hillary, in these divisive times to keep on discussing this election as if its democrats v republicans, red state vs blue state. This is not some "game", it is real life. The Clinton's are extremely well suited for the "political game", but I think Obama and to some extent even Edwards see beyond that. Which is why they make such better candidates.

Its truely unfortunate that "partisan" speak is appealing to anyone. Part of the problem we face is that we have too many people in government who are too adept at twisting words, or conveniently leaveing out a few facts to make as many people as possible think they are being honest and talking about the issues when instead, they are trying to fool as many people as possible. Its sad that Hillary is so good at this. Its sad that her campaign sees nothing wrong with taking words out of context to make them look like something other than what was actually said. She is too much like what we already have in the whitehouse.

I believe Hillary is the only one of the three that can "eat" Mccain. I do think that she and Edwards would make a great team.

It will play EXTREMELY well.

The election is no mercy. If Karl Rove can stir up everyone on republican base, and republican can impeach Bill Clinton for a blue dress (which was laughed so loudly by French and Europeans), you have to understand the dirty tricks of Republican machine.

finally–obama had answered the question can he be right and tough …for the first time after listening to all the debates , I loved the heat the heart of this debate I now know is it Obama because he;s smart and savvy ..what a great MLK day!!

CNN is not biased? Read the headline…..

Hillary keeps talking about all of here experience in the White House. Now correct me if I'm wrong but I don't believe that being married to the president actually counts as "experience."

Hillary is really hammering in that whole "I've done this for 16 years" line….

The republican party is in a mess and can't decide on a candidate. They are fractured. Everyone knows that what will munite the republicans around a candidate is Hillary. they want her and they hate her and given her high negatives they will beat her. She is too deveisive to win and just wait until they let public that Bill is still fooling around…heaven help us then!

Yep, Hilliary cares for me…..R-i-g-h-t !!

Does 8 years as first lady really count as experience? Didn't she start as a Senator in 2001? I am not a brain surgeon, but isnt that only 7 years?

Hillary does divide the country and she gives her party the smallest chance of winning in November. Obama talks (now) as a uniter and CAN draw voters across party lines. Hillary can not.

Hillary gets my vote if mCCain is nominated Assuming

To say the Republicans are not going to vote for Obama makes you like all of the other closed mind mad dog dems. It was Iowa that gave him the big push, all of us are just waitiing for our chance to give him our support.

I think Senator Obama was not too sure on what to respond with regard Bill Clinton being the first Black President.

Here, here, James.
No one will drive moderates away faster and farther than Clinton.

Hillary appears to be conceding South Carolina to Obama….her statements reflect her commitment to WIN Texas, California, and every other state on Feb 5. It's a very smart strategy. McCain really need So Carolina, Hillary doesn't.

After watching this much of the debate, I am reminded of getting sick of the kids in the back seat. One says, "He hit me first." The other says, "No, I didn't. She hit me first." Bicker, bicker, bicker. It's ugly between Clinton and Obama. I like both significantly less than I did when the debate started. I disagree more with Edwards — but he at least acts like an adult. I suspect this would hold up in times of crisis, and this is pretty important for a world leader.

Probably the best candidate that I saw tonight was John Edwards, he was quick witted and had good answers to the questions asked, I didnt care for the bickering between Obama and Clinton.

I'm tired of Hillary talking about "fighting the Republicans" — and that she's been through it for 16 years. No she hasn't! She's only been in office for 7 years – it was her husband who ran for office….or has everyone forgotten that??? Obama has been fighting successfully against the CLINTON MACHINE, which is as tough if not tougher than the Republicans!

Too much rhetorics from Obama. Just too much. Issues brother, issues

Of course she's speaking partisan! Duh! It's a party nomination race. Not a General Election. Before she can even GET to the General Election, she has to get the blessings of her party, the Democrats. And she, as well as all the others, really only have 16 days left to do that. The race for nomination WILL be decided on February 5th. After that, she has 6 months to tune her General Election strategy and appeal to a broader base of voters outside her party.

I am sick and tired of listening to Hillary talk about how many yeRS SHE HAS BEEN OUT THERE, "tAKING ALL THE ATTACKS." The way I remember it, alot of the "attacks" she has been through had to do with Bill's philandering…..

Hillary also attacks Barack on issues unrelated to the campaign but on character. I am tired of this and believe many americans are as well. Lets get on with a discussion of the issues and how each candidate proposes to solve the problems facing our country.

Hillary Clinton is much more powerful and determined. She stands her grounds well and is able to defend her ideas more convincingly.

Clinton is a sure loser.

Look at the polls. She has a strong disapproval rating of 48%.

Translated, half the country can't stand her.

Choosing her as our candidate would be snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

hey
cnn blog, can't put immigration on the agenda?

To Mr. Schneider's comment, I would argue that calling anyone a "son of the south" is also a reminder that this person might be heir of the many racial injustices that have taken place throughout decades. I'm not so sure this comment had a more deliberate and "not so nice" subtext.

She's simply been around long enough to know you can't make change without a fight–particularly in DC. There are strong anti-change forces there that may not be charmed by Barry and his oratory.

hillary is proving to be a divider. go edwards

Hillary Clinton is demonstrating a key difference between herself and the other 2 candidates: she has (1) a tangible plan of action to address the issues at hand and (2) has a degree of professionalism far beyond her competitors. Senator Obama fails to convey a plan or a tangible agenda. Senator Edwards is a modern-day demogague, presenting nothing new. I wonder how long it will take people to realize that Obama has nothing to offer the American public other than rhetoric and emotional cries for unsubstantiated "change".

I don't get the "Day one" thing. She is a junior Senator. Give me a break. I like that they have crowned McCain the nominee though. Mac is back!

I am appalled at this 'Christian blah blah blah' from ALL the candidates – As a practicing American Jew – I find this entire discussion frightening – we are a country in which our founding fathers made sure that there was a separation of church & state – who is making sure that these laws are met? This conversation of who is more Christian than the other candidate is unacceptable to me and my family – and all my Jewish friends – Republican AND Democrat alike.

This is the thing that is most troubling about Hilary. She is divisive. Obama is Uniting. He has the ability to draw people from all races, faith and frm Both Parties to vote for him in NOvember. If it is truly the goal to defeat the Repoublicans as Hilary seems to be urging then Obama is actually the best and most probable candidate to do so. Obama is the only one that can beat the Republican in November. I didn't even mention Edwards because he doesn't even stand a chance.

interesting you should say that, as Obama just shot his "uniter not a divider" argument in the foot on that whole rant about how we need to get the 60% and take control back from the Republicans who have "made a bad name for their party" etc and so forth. that didn't sound like uniting, he's completely playing the 2 party system for his advantage because it's clear that people are leaning more towards Hillary, despite the fact that she may be slightly more partisan… but CHANGE means you have to be that way. I'm sick of his weaseling. the more I watch him talk the slimier he looks. ENOUGH already!

Edwards and Obama will be eaten alive by the republicans. They cheated and stole the election before Gore knew what hit him and swiftboated Kerry and sunk him in 2 months. The Clintons can fight those kind of tactics.

How does anyone begin to suggest that Hillary has so many years of experience? She is only in her second term as a Senator….never having served in a postion won on her own merits and skills.

I keep hearing the candidates talk about beating the republicans, I remember their cries about how every vote should count, Why has this changed. What about Florida. I'm a Dem. but I refuse to vote for any of them. If Florida is important to any of them now, maybe they should stay out of it when the general elections start

Don't say Hillary is the only one who can win! Look at the electability polls. Edwards matches best against any Repub candidate, Obama does nearly as well. Hillary loses to McCain right down the line. She MUST NOT be the candidate.

Mr. Edwards needs to learn when to shut up. He is rude and will not let anyone answer his questions without butting in. He also seems too smyg.

This is getting ugly. They really need to stop fighting and focus on the corporate snake republicans.

Okay, is it just me… Is it fair to say, I can be a great doctor because I was married to one? I can be a great lawyer because I was married to one? I don't follow her experience claims. 35 years? 16 years? Can someone help me?

People need to move past revenge and let this country get out of this battle of attrition between Republicans and Democrats…we've got real issues, real world problems to figure out. Everyone just needs to take a deep breath and get the job done.

I am a very partisan democrat life-long but have been nauseated by the Clintons Rovian tactics ie. exploiting race.

If Hillary gets the nomination I'll vote (reluctantly) for McCain.

Why didn't Hillary answer the question about her husband overshadowing her by his campaigning?

Hilary is getting a bit of her bearing. However, she is nowhere presidential! She appears as self-centered as she probably is- that's obvious in her sentences.-she can't speak a sentence without an "I" in it!

She may win this primary b/c of Bil Clinton's political prowes. But, she does not really appear to deserve it!

immigration it doesn't exist for the democrats or cnn. joined at the hip!

She's smart but she's alienating half the country with all this talk of "taking on" the Republicans for 16 years. She will NEVER reach across the aisles, therefore she can't get elected. Plus, we've had a Bush or Clinton president for the last 20 years…. Game over.

Where are the Republicans? No debates?

That's a good point, Bill. I started out favoring Clinton over Obama (although my first choice was Richardson). I originally felt that Obama was kind of young to be running for President and wanted someone with more experience. However, over the past few weeks, I've become more and more concerned about the combativeness of the Clintons and have begun to worry that Hilary and Bill Clinton cannot let go of the (largely justifiable) anger they feel about the attacks they endured during Bill Clinton's presidency and cannot get away from reacting very negatively to any criticism. I've started leaning more toward Obama because he does come across as less combative and better able to deal with political opposition. I think Obama might be better able to work with both Democrats and Republicans in Congress and finally get us away from the polarization and gridlock that has polarized Washington for at least the past 8 years.

Hillary likes to talk about her 35 years of experience, yet she only found her voice a few weeks ago, so what value does her 35 years of experience have? Whose voice have we heard for the past 35 years?

Exactly. Clinton is too divisive. Way too divisive.

James is so right! If we want to bring in independents we can't have Hillary. I really like her, but she will divide, not unite.

If you are the nominee of your party!
Would you consider naming your Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Homeland Security, Prior to the General Election?

Oh my… The republicans want nothing more than to run against Billary… Let us not forget the right wing radio talkers are chomping at the bit… Dick Morris has produced a movie that can't be advertised on television about Billary. Go to You Tube to see the trailers.

It's time to MOVE ON!!!!!! Enough of the Bush's and Clintons

When cornered by Edwards about special interests, Hillary sidestepped and backpedaled.

I just don't trust this woman. I don't know why, but I don't.

Nik T… were you one of the same people who was angry because independents and REPUBLICANS have been able to vote for Obama in some primaries?

I am a Republican, myself and my friends are for Obama. The one's that are not are continuing on their own to watch and digest the material and debates and even they can not say they are not going to support and vote for Obama.

It is really something to watch my friends, repubs, dialog on Obama, and we are all out for him for our kids, and grandkids.

HILLARY CLINTON IS THE ONLY PERSON WHO CAN BEAT THE REPUBLICANS!!!

If they don't stop this stupid bickering they will not match up to Bozo. Stop it right now . . . stick to the issues.

Sylvia is right, she is speaking the truth…. if there is one person who can make a change to this nations, take a guess who it is?

The Republicans have not been after Sen. Clinton for 16 years. She was not a Senator or a Representative for the 8 years her HUSBAND was in office. Perhaps they were after his husband to be sure, but let's not forget that while Bill Clinton was President, his accomplishments and failures were his own – they were not hers.

Hillary comes across as "us" vs. "them." We have endured this situation for 7 years with poor results and it needs to end. We need a President that talks in terms of "we" as in "We the People …"

Bill isn't doing anything wrong. He isn't telling lies. He's just stating his opinion. Everyone has taken his comments out of context. The media just loves to say "Nast fight emerging in South Carolina! Watch out program!" when it's just healthy stumping and criticism. Politics is politics.

She is so sneaky she never answers about all the dirty money she takes. I dont trust her period and she proves this everytime she sidestep questions and point fingers at Obama on small points if Obama worked for a slum lord for 5 hours (which Im sure it took them all month to find that dirt) it is still better than her working for an anti American company like Walmart where they under pay their workers buy too many goods from over seas!

I'm a Democrat and I will not vote for Hillary. The age of divisiveness needs to end.

I agree with James she will divide the country

In this wide open election, the candidate who can unite the country will win.
Don't forget the growing number of Independents!

Hillary is making a mistake. If she were to be elected (which i STRONGLY hope and believe she wont be) she is NOT just governing the democrats but also the republicans and the independents. We need to UNITE the country! Barack Obama is smart in being a UNIFYING rather than a DIVIDING force.

Yes and its why they call it party politics and she is built tough

It will truly be a fight! We would be foolish to not recognize this. The purpose of this primary is to choose who can best fight the Republicans.

CLinton the divider……….

I'm concerned with Hillary fighting the fight against the Republicans. I think if Hillary won the party nomination – this could hurt the party overall – she may bring the fight and all power to her, but her past battles will hurt her.

Should play well — seems more and more Republicans are ready for a change in the leadership and direction of this company.

What the Democratic party needs to understand is that while Hillary is very appealing to their core demographic, and especially to democratic primary voters- she's essentially the most polarizing figure in the race.

No other Democratic candidate will raise the ire of Republicans, or the gut-reaction dislike of Independents the way that Hillary will. Obama and Edwards are both more successful in eliciting a generally "pleasant" feeling from Independents and Republicans. This matters in a general election.

Someone has to be a front runner to be able to handle the republicans when it's one fromthe dems and one from the republicans.

So we need a stong very strong candiate to take them on. If you can't handle to be critized now what are our chances against a republican when it's one on one.

They are dirty fighters and we need to choose the one that can fight back strong.
for our beliefs.

Brown: are you sure Clinton did that? Or was it perhaps a bit divided before her?

I'm an independent white male. Does the Democratic Party have room for me in their party? They don't seem to pander to white voters at all.

Do we really need another CLINTON in office? I beleive if she is elected the status quo will continue for America. It is time for change.

I do not want to see going into the office of the President just thinking of "taking on republicans" that is the SSDD stuff.
I want to see change with someone who is about unifying the Dems and the GOP not going in swinging.

That's what I really don't understand. You pile on the "evil" Republicans to score points with partisan Democrats yet somehow you claim you'll be able to unite this nation? The funny thing is being the total Clinton politician, she doesn't see how this DOES NOT make any sense, plus the fact that there are a number of Republicans watching these debates – how does she think they're going to feel and respond? A Democrat can not win without a significant portion of Independents and Republicans crossing over!! Yes, you can win the primary bad-mouthing Republicans, but you're setting yourself up for defeat in the general.

Exactly – its an unfortunate fact of modern American poltics that you have to be able to fight the opposite party. Perhaps once this election cycle is over, change can be affected, but right now, none of the republican candidates are offering the proverbial olive branch, and are in fact, saying the exact same thing about Democrats.

Plus, Hillary is wrong on the war. She voted on the war. Barack didn't vote for it.

I believe that Hillary is preparing for what the republican nominee will do to her. She is being very strong and very focused in expressing the direction she has for our country.

I agree with Sylvia.
Grant, Hillary is the only one being realistic when dealing when partisan interactions.

Once again this debate is all about race. Unfortunately black people are the ones being racists. Evidently they do not have the best intentions in mind….

She has had 16 years to 'do' something. What was it?

I think Hillary is the only one prepared for the national election. Rove has said the Republicans are going to stress national security. Obama knows nothing about it.

We need a leader who can build consensus yet show a firm face to other world powers. Enough of partisanship already … it's only mired us deeper in our own divisiveness.

She's right, and she's gonna do it. Reps aren't playing nice now or in the general, so Obama is cute to think they will. Cute and naive.

Hillary is fair and her partisan parlance is a gesture of unity! It was very bad form of Obama to criticize the former president. Obama insulted Clinton this week by saying
that the Republicans had all the best ideas in the last 15 years. OBAMA started it.

she is absolutely correct

what nonsense! Obama and his fans need to stop whining all the time; if they can't win every time they say the other side isn't being nice enough to them. What bull, esp. after the hate and vileness they spread every day on every blog and in every speech, about Mrs. Clinton. Grow up, Obamanistas! And stop doing what you accuse your oppenents of–stop lying about Clinton.

You don't need to fight with Republicans, The next Democratic President needs to work with them and unite the country. Hillary can't do that.

It will continue to play because her strategy isn't inclusive of republicans in general. It's all about turning out the base and some independents. Plus, even Republicans are dismayed by their party direction right now so the message that she is fighting the current republican politics may gain traction even with conservatives.

Is it Hillary or Bill…just who is running? Do we really know?

All the passion in the world will not get the job done. Experience and partisanship is absolutely essential to push tough changes through and I believe Hillary has what it takes to beat the Washington political system.

But this is why she may struggle in a general election. Many moderate Republicans who could consider voting for Obama can't imagine voting for Clinton.

To win a general election, you need to build a coalition.

Hillary's partisan language divides people, hurts the democrats, it makes her UNELECTABLE.

Bill Clinton had his time, and now it's time for him to sit down!

Obama for president! It's this sort of thing that we need to get away from. I actually like Hillary, but she and Bill have seemed unattractive lately. I think she inspires a lot of divisiveness, and that worries me.

I do believe, though, that Republicans will and can attack Hillary in ways that they have difficulty with Barack.

This is why Hillary will win.

Well it certainly won't appeal to anyone in the Republican Party.

Grant , do your research, read the Il papers, Barrack is no angel, and he tries to portray himself that way.

I agree. It is what it is and when it comes to politics, there are no two people better than hillary and bill

Wolf just said there was a "raging debate" by viewers on cnnpolitics.com, but I see no comments posted whatsoever!

obama has it right…if we're ever going to get things done in this country we need to draw in many different groups of people…I personally know at least a dozen people who are either independents or republicans who have spoken openly about their serious intentions to vote for obama.

I am a black female and I will tell you that I don't trust Barack HusseinObama. Wake up America! We don't want to go there. His church just named Farrakahn Man of the Year 2008!

The three of these guys *together* aren't fit enough to run this country.

All three need to be careful not to place themselves too far to the Left as to keep Republicans from seeing one of them as a good alternative to whomever becomes the Republican candidate. I believe that the Democrats will need to depend on Independents and Republican cross-over votes to win. Obama seems best at stressing this point.

Bill SCHNEIDER must think he's Bill CLINTONS stand in. Maybe White House press secretary sounds like a good job for a CNNer.

Does anyone really get anything done fighting anyone in congress?

Here she goes again, riding on a strategy that has failed before – electability

Clinton keeps throwing out the experience card…in the white house for 30-some years right? Partisan terms wont really play out because I think there is a large faction of younger voters and also voters who do not care as long as a republican does not remain in office any longer. Clinton should stay away from the us versus them argument because honestly no one with a brain will allow "them" to win…because we already spent 8 years sucking it up.

She is being honest and I think she will get it done!!!\

Clinton '08

The GOP is going to chew Obama up and spit him out if he's our nominee. I want someone who will spit right back, and that's Hillary Clinton.

Being a partisan is not a "dirty" thing. It shows a person's passion. I would much prefer an individual with a strong commitment than one who vassilates.

It's disheartening to see Hillary scoring politcal points on her divisive past, present and future. I agree with you Bill – her partisan message will appeal to the base and turn off voters in a general election.

She constantly speaks about her experience and fighting against the Republicans, has anyone really questioned when, where, and how she has done this? Also, this entire debate,particualry the beginning part she seemd to be very emotional and angry, and I'm curious how well that will play out in terms of her ability of being a leader.

As she shoudl… It is very HARD to even exist being a Democrat in a Republican congress. You can hardly exist. Polar extremes….

A political change would mean bridging the gaps between parties…..part of Obama's platform from the beginning. Why do we have two parties anyway so that every four or eight years only a portion of American's can be represented?

Go O!
Hilary was called out on her, and Bill's distortions of Obama's voting record and speeches and am glad that Obama was able to call her out for the maniupulative tactics she has been using.

Whether we like it, or not, bi-partisanism is the fundamental reality of our government. I would much prefer an aware and experienced candidate rather than some young man wanting to launch a love-in. Obama is showing his true colors of inexperience and lack of ability by assuming that his election to the position means everything he wants will happen. We are already doing away with the second "King George" that has screwed us over as a nation. Why elect a third?

Why is Obama having so much trouble defending himself if he is so righteous??

She isn't that partisan, but again this is a primary fight; its good to cater to a party than shift to the middle in a general election…Obama might go more conservative or leftist….he just seems unknown and untested.

I am finally voting for Barack Obama, because he makes perfect sense to bring the majority of votes in order for a Democrat to be nominated for president. Hillary will bring only Democrats and intesify the Repulican party. Barack is good, the republicans do not know how to run against him, but they do know how to run against the Clintons.

hm… fact check on Edwards doing best against McCain?

cnn boosting obama again sheesh

I am tired of Bill Schneider , please Cnn should butt him out of here. He does not do good journalism, he is corrupt

All his comments on Obama has been with but.

Well my opinion is Hillary is capitalising on Obama not keeping his cool earlier…And the poor guy has clearly stated that he doesnt like personal attacks…Thats politics though…GO OBAMA!!!

What exactly did Bill Clinton do for balck people??? More black men received the death penalty than any other president in history

Grant, you are an idiot! GO HILLARY!

No matter how good you feel about Hillary now, she can't when in November. Edwards is the way to go if you want a democrat in the White House.

But that certainly pegs Clinton to being part of the Washington problems….she needs to be careful. The person that will win this nationally (rep or dem) will prove that they can be TRUSTED and they have not been part of the problems of the past 16 years.

Hillary will likely have a problem with both of those tests nationally.

In general election, Hillary will win hands down. You didn't realy believe Obama and Edwards could fight the Clinton mACHINE and win did you?

Has Hillary been an elected official from the time she graduated law school? If not, what is the 35 years of experience that she continued to hammer home. Typical Hillary, distort poltical experience with life experience.

Hillary is a natural FIGHTER…she has been from the beginning of her career as an advocate. Fortified by the many years of the Republican attack machine focusing on her.
The Republicans would find it difficult to find anything new to attack her.
I am afraid that Barack would be more susceptible for fresh attacks.
He REALLY needs to work on that speech pattern of his!

Hillary is like Bush…ONLY her party. Obama want to INCLUDE ALL Americans, no matter what party. Good catch Bill.

this is why a vote for Clinton is a vote for the status quo…

She represents partisan politics that have stopped Washington from accomplishing anything…

Barack represents a unity that the Clinton machine knows nothing about…

Are we so cynical as a nation that we don't believe that we can truly behave as one unified nation??

We need to bring in a president who has lived abroad and realised the american dream by contesting for the presidential candidate. As a muslim I support my brother.
GO OBAMA 08

In general election, Hillary will win hands down. You didn't realy believe Obama and Edwards could fight the Clinton mACHINE 4 ever?

What about Edwards point that he is the only won that can beat McCain in a general election?

Once again, you attack Hillary! Obama is not answering the questions at all. Can you find anything wrong with his performance? I can.

@ Sylvia. I completely agree with you. Democrats should be getting ready for the Republican attack machine.

This reminds of wolfs used in the last election ads. Dem need someone who can withstand the Republican

We all need to be thinking "how are we going to beat the Republicans." Edwards just addressed this. All of them are good but who's got the experience and strength to go the long run. My vote is for Hillary.

I for one am fed up with partisan politics and do not believe Hillary can heal this country. She will cause further divisions. I also believe Bill Clinton will right in the middle of everything and that just doesn't work for me. His term is over.

Barack, I believe in the general election, will cross all political lines to bring us together as a nation. Not try to divide us, we are so tired of partisan politics.

I think that the "fighting the Republican" rhetoric is NOT the kind of talk that UNITES a nation but rather further divides it!

Obama is nothing but fluff. Edwards is so right when saying that Dems need to choose a candidate that can beat McCain. Obama won't be able to do that. We need a tough ticket, not an inspirational one.

Very, very true! Every time she does that she further divides our country and gives all republicans to unite against her. I was very impressed that Obama directly addressed that and challenged her paradigm. It was very refreshing.

pray tell…what's her record on "fighting" republicans???

Sylvia you just missed what Obama said. He said we have to change the political scape completely. Clinton followers view through Hillary colored glasses. Hillary is too close to that which needs to be changed. The fox can't guard the chicken coop.

If Hillary wants to fight the republicans and Obama wants to work with the republicans who do you think is going to get more accomplished as president?? OBAMA

Regardless of what happens, things in Washington are staying partisan. Obama talks about getting a 60% majority, aka he wants conservatives to get out of the way and let liberals run the country. Pure demagogy. We live in a Republic, NOT a Democracy

Republicans = Evil corporate Snakes

I think that Hillary is making her "General Election" stump speeches too early in the Primaries "fighting the Republicans".. This will backfire, with Independents and Republicans who are able to vote for a Democratic Candidate in the primaries…. Obama will be the receptor of the "middle of the road & Anti-Clinton" votes!!!

In general election, Hillary will win hands down. You didn't realy believe Obama and Edwards could fight the Clinton mACHINE for ever?

What's she's speaking is the truth, and in the end that's what voters are looking for. Being a right-wing partisan never seemed to hurt Dubya in general elections, because, after all, it is the partisans (people who care enough to have an opinion) who actually vote.

Hillary is speaking the truth about the past! Obama scored on this one. A new majority across party lines will be needed to bring about the 'radical' changes that are needed in this country.

I think Obama did well in the second half,and looks presidential.

Her strength is her weakness. She knows now to play the "game". This is not a game – it is about our children, the environment and vision…..

It won't play at all ………….Hillary Clinton does one thing better then anyone else………….she DIVIDES the country .

But Hillary is right. We do have to fight the Republicans. Obama is playing hard on his ability to "inspire" people. But we need a President who will lead, who will be tough under pressure and not have knee-jerk reactions, who is not bowled over by his emotions and who understands that it is clear thinking, understanding of policy and judgement that count. After all, we are not electing "Preacher-in-Chief."

Hillary has the base. The thing of it is, if she is the nominee, it'll be harder for her than Obama or Edwards to get the support of Independents or even Republicans. Some people just hate Hillary. It's great that she's partisan now, but if we see a Clinton-McCain election, McCain will win. Obama has a better chance of unifying both sides.

In this election it is a fight against the republicans, so the candidate who wants to finnaly fight back against the repubicans will be the winner. This is proven by the number of voters who are coming up for democrats and not for republicans. A reminder of FDR in his first years in office, after the start of the Great Mess there was a lean toward the democrats and a democratic majority in congress and white house will get things done

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In general election, Hillary will win hands down. You didn't realy believe Obama and Edwards could fight the Clinton mACHINE for ever?

she needs to tone it down some. she is not making any sense at all right now. She is holding on to a very fine rope and will fall flat on her face if she doesn't get to the points and QUICK

I agree with you Sylvia. None of the other candidates are experienced enough to fight the Republicans! Go Hillary!!!

What do you expect from CNN? Obama doesn't have a clue. Clinton 08

To think that the Republicans are going to vote for DEmocracts who believe in values completely differente from theirs is FOOLISH. Obama has no idea what he's up against.

Amen. that is what we should be worrying about – who has enough experience to run against a McCain, etc. He would eat Obama alive!!

How is it that she gained so much "valueable experience" from being the first lady, helping her to deal with these issues, and yet her husband will certainly not be too active should she become president?

In general election, Hillary will win hands down. You didn't realy beliebe Obama and Edwards could fight the Clinton mACHINE for ever?

She is the only one that can win!

Hillary has the experience and SHE WILL WIN! GO HILLARY!

Yeah, well wake up Hillary, this Partisan hatefest is exactly what we want to get away from!
Hello!

If she is the Democratic candidate, I will vote Republican. I would pick John McCain over her any day of the week.

OBAMA 08

Hillary is tough and smart. She will beat any of the Republicans!

I think Obama brings the most change in this area

Not well. Good insight, Bill. She definately needs a moderate running mate.

Finally I see this post about Bill.. sort of.. so here was something I said on a post before: HIllary is talking out of her anus. She bs'es on Bill, and then goes on and says we should refocus on the real goal, right after attacking Obama, by saying that she would be the best against fighting republicans. Right after saying Bill isn't doing anything wrong.. hes the one telling lies about Obama, UNFOCUSING the campaign. That was what Obama was responding to!

she is only speaking the truth on this subject