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