CNN

The Democratic Party is about progressive movement towards a better future. I am a registered and long-time Democrat, but after Hillary's embracing of the Republican tactic of deep fear mongering, there are two results. Nationally, the Republicans must be delighted to see the Democratic party being ripped apart. Personally, I will NOT VOTE FOR HILLARY in the fall Presidential Election, skipping my vote for the first time my life. This madness has to stop!

The Clintons will use everyone and everything they can to win. Come on people, Hillary would not even be in this race if it were not for her husband, oh yeah guess thats why she stayed with him, political aspirations.She lets him be the bad guy, say all the things she wants to say, but would make her look bad and then claims he is supportive and passionate, oh give me a break. He lied to the american people, just like taking a sip of water, he will continue to lie, that is what he knows how to do and she supports him. If she really has been working so hard for the last 35 years in our government, wow, what a mess it is. She needs to take responsibilty for being part of the problem and quit claiming she is part of the solution. The solution is not more of the same crap, there needs to be a new approach to this mess.They claim insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results and that is what a vote for a Clinton is, INSANITY. I will vote against the return of old, even if that means another republican, at least it won't be another Clinton. The people on here who say Hillary knows how to handle the republicans are right, she has been hanging out for a long time with them and she is part of their world, so of course she knows how to play the game, thats what is so nuts, why do you people want the game to go on and on. Oh yeah, insanity, it really is something isn't it. She is not about change, she is just more of the same old crap. Maybe when your life becomes so difficult, so hard to live, you will be truely ready for change, but until then you cling to the same old, same old, hoping for different results.

If you think ruling a country is a gain that some people know and can play well because they've been there for a while, you'll just have your eyes to cry. The world is no more what it was 10 years ago, so we need something different. If you think I am wrong, let's try your choice.

I am so tired of Hillary's boasting of her fights with the "Republicans" and "BILLARY"S" eagerness to get in the mud and fight some more- same old hateful, divisive, stupid politics.

Is this what our country needs? Is this what our country wants?

Obama 08

Were CNN analyst watching the same debate like rest of us. Obama was terrible with his stuttering, pausing and babbling. I had my brother visiting who never follows these kind of thing. When he saw Obama his first reaction. "that guy is not presidential at all. Why is he in this race anyways?. So that is fair observation, rest of us have our favorite.

Barack Hussein Obama loves those republicans so much he should just join them

Come down to earth man... do you really think all those Republicans who wants him elected is really going to vote for a guy name Hussein in the general election when the country is still at war with Saddam Hussein's Iraq.

We are talking about Republicans right – the same once just less than 3 years ago managed to swift boat a war hero like john kerry and max cleland.
Can you imagine what they will do to Barack Hussein. They have not even started to attack him. at least with clinton the right wing has been attacking her for the last 16 years and she has stood up to them and still standing she knows how to handle them and she is ready to handle them.

Bill Maher is right when he says democrats really do know how to loose elections. they vote from their hearts for "hope" not from ther brains. For once lets be smart about this beacuse come September – November it is gonna be too late to scratch your heads and say what happened.

I'm a republican and I would consider voting for Obama; only consider it, however, I would never vote for HRC. I've never heard any republicans say they'd vote for HRC. Half of the democrats hate HRC, so how is she going to unite this country. I want a United states, not a divided states. Us republicans will come vote in record numbers to keep HRC out of the White House. I wish democrats would use their intelligence instead of their emotions. I constantly hear, she'll be the first woman president, he'll be the first black president. What are your issues? Vote on that!

Hillary has the highest negatives, and they're not going away. It was clear in the SC debate that they're as strong as ever, and why. She's nasty, and she's willing to drag others down with her. Obama has a good shot at creating a winning coalition. She, by contrast, is purely partisan.

All the democrats I know love Obama. I have not yet to this day been able to find a democrat or at least a educated one that likes Hillary. Everyone knows what a liar she is. The republicans will have a field day with her.

Yes it's working. Hillary is running a campaign of exclusion, Obama inclusion.

If you consider yourself a strong liberal, then you may be enticed by Hillary's message. But keep in mind, you cannot do it without the Independants and some R's. To say to hell with them is counterproductive, and will only divide this nation more.

That is why so many people dislike Hillary. Wake up people! She cannot beat McCain.

Lisen all, I feel we have three great candidates. However I think Obama, is the best man for the job. He is fresh he is not corrupted by the white house, he is about hope, a new vision for this country. Obama, is a very educated man, and you have to believe in what he can do for this country, he will not be running if he did not feel he could deliver. I ask all of you give this man a chance, he is for peace and not confusion, everyone can become a bit bitter at some point, we are all human. Regarding race, the latest polls stated whites at 72% is ready for a African- American President, 61% blacks, well for those of you who. I think it would be great to have a black president, keep in mind Hillary knows her stuff, but believe me it will not be like the 90's she is different from Bill, and through this campaign the real you come through. Don't be a bit surprise if the republicans are back in office, if Hillary is elected, they will beat her up, and we are back to square one. Trust me Obama is the man, they can't touch him, he is the future in this day and time my friends!

He is naive to think that his Changed Politics will be a winning strategy against either the Clintons or Repellicans. He lacks the aggressive litigation and persuasion skills necessary to win and govern. Nice won't cut it.

I believe it is a mistake to underestimate Barak Obamas crossover appeal. The country is evenly divided as the last two elections have shown. In the general election 50% is not good enough particularly for the Democrats. Hillary is polarizing and widely hated. She may be insanely popular with the core of the party but that core failed to get a win in the last two elections. Outside of the hardcore party members she is scorned. She is probably less hated than George Bush but she is not running against him. The possible republican opponents she could face with the exception of Huckabee can and would draw independents moderates and many Democrats. Hillary will not. The Republicans have a horrible field of candidates this election and many Republicans will stay home, vote third party, or even vote Democrat, but not against Hillary. They will come to the polls by the bussload to beat her. Against Hillary Clinton the evangelicals will come out for Romney. The small government Republicans would support McCain and the anti-gays would support Gulliani. However if given an appealing alternative such as Obama or better yet Edwards that wouldn't be true.

The phoney war between democrats and Republicans is not the answer to current problems. We need fresh thinking on social welfare, climate change, globalisation and religious conflict. Hillary has proved herself to be an old battle axe with very little proven capacity for new thoughts. She wants to maintain status quo at a time when we need someone who can think outside the box. A good example is the Governor of California. Unfortunately, he can not stand. Obama is the best hope for America.

Surge,
There is evidence that Obama has cross appeal. Look at the results from Nevada causcus. he won in rural areas which as populated my republicans. most of them crossed parties to vote for him. Billary cannot bring that to the table

I see him as the only one running that can. I'm an independent and will help trash another Democratic Presidency if Hillary gets the nomination. The Clintons can not be trusted to be truthful to us. They have already divided up this country with the Bush family and I can't stand either of these families or what they are doing to this country while claiming to be patriots.

First of all, Chaunda, you are not rational. You are not even logical in your attempts to discounter Obama.

Can someone please explain why Clinton is even believable, succeeding the years of scandal that plagued her in her Arkansas days. She cannot even admit to refuse $ from corporate "head honchos" because of fear of the losses (financially, politically, and you can speculate the rest) she will take. What other reason would someone "claim to fight against these people, and then refuse to take them out (by not letting them have a say in your financing strategies after they help you get elected with their $). Please America, think about the common sense of this.

This isn't neuroscience people. She talks about hate toward the "policies of Republicans over the last 15 years", but, if she was our PRESIDENT, why wouldn't she want to work with EVERYONE (since those Republicans DO REPRESENT nearly half of our country)? So, why would any of us normal people believe our voices would be heard, and change would happen, if Washington with Hillary, continues to fight?

This ready on day one thing is absurd, also. Experience in the White House didn't help George W. either now did it? A whole political life, full of that "E-word"–experience.

I firmly believe Barack Obama is tired of defending his stances, as he said himself, and tired of "typical Washington campaign tactics" by the Clinton's. I feel he had to show that he was firm tonight with both competitors, but he did it in a classy way, not even comparable to the reviews Clinton is getting on that temper of hers. He truly cares about America, and he is CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN.

Please AMERICA, don't be fooled by these typical mud-slinging tactics the Clinton's are using. Use your intellectual, and educated sensibilities. Thank you...

I'm glad that Senator Obama finally took the gloves off and proved that when people get tough he can get tough right back, showing once again that he has what it takes to lead our nation. It's about time that someone called former President Clinton on the untruths that he has been spouting during this campaign.

No, he only rallys the angry people for some reason.
I am proud as heck to be a Democrat and like to say it out loud.
You can cross the isles without losing who you are and your ideals.
Hillary does this with both hands tied behind her back.

As one who continues to say that Bill Clinton is one of the most intelligent presidents, I am convinced that we do not need another Clinton in the White House.

Clinton does not reassure especially with her answer when Edwards grilled her about lobbyists' influence on Washington DC.

Clinton wants healthcare etc but her old-style politics will prevent her from getting people together.

The country does not deserve to have a president who is de facto half president only because a past president/spouse will be pinchhitting for her in tough times.

Obama has a stronger unifying message for the Country than Edwards. This is his edge over Edwards. Both offer a direction that is better for 21st century America politics.

I don't believe a word Obama says. He has backpeddled and denied and claimed what he said isn't what he meant, and he has denied his voting history.
Every time he gets BUSTED he can't seem to take responsibility, and that just reminds me WAY too much of GEORGE W. BUSH JR.! I don't trust this guy as far as hillary clinton can throw him. Vote John Edwards in November! Forget how the biased media has practically blacked him out! Remember that news corporations are still corporations.

im so tired of partisan bickering and fingerpointing...there were more votes last year on whether or not to vote on immigration...barrack obama is the best candidate to promote building bridges and build relationships, and even if it is an idealistic message it is better than hillarys partisan war-like message

congress is almost half and half. A president who wishes to start a fight will lead to inactivity is the worse thing this country can have. Itll be bush but instead of tax cuts itll be tax increases...she could not bring the troops home she far to divisive

I couldn't agree more with you Kim, we need leaders with substance, not only elouqency.

How can Obama win the General Election when he can't win the Southwestern and Western States that have huge Hispanic voters. It is clear that he lost the Hispanic vote 3 to 1 in Nevada. I live in the Southwest and the Hispanic vote will be very important in this election if the Democrats hope to win in the Southwestern States. Obama will never carry the majority of the Southeastern states (heart of the Republican country), because they are solid Republican and not even close to going Democrat-regardless of who is the nomination. It would take a miracle from above for any Democrat to win the majority of Southeastern States. Obama may speak of being a uniter, but he sure has along way to go, and a few months to change a lot of minds. Moving past Blue states and Red states sound good-but reality it reality.

The facts are what they are:

We currently we have 1 black U.S. Senator and 1 black Governor.
We currently have 8 women Governors and 16 U.S. women Senators.
We currently have a woman Speaker of the House.

If I am wrong with my facts, someone please correct me. I want to be factual in my data.

It appears to me that the country is more inclined to elect women to higher state and federal positions. This may be an indicator that Hillary may have a better chance than Obama.

If Republicans are the party of ideas, I might just vote Republican during general election if Obama becomes the nominee.

the dems in congress cant end the war right now because they dont have the votes to over ride a bush veto. if we had a working majorty like Obama has proposed things could get done. the biggest problems weve had in goverment over the last eight years has been because republicans not listening to outside soures to achive goals. as democrats lets not make the same mistake lets move forward and never look back. One more thing the evidence Obama can bring togther colications is that he appeals to people of all back grounds from black women on the south side of chicago to white men in small towns in New Hampshire.

hey Chaunda You dont have to vote Obama, but dont sell your soul instead vote Edwards

HE IS TALKING FAIRYTALE.WHEN I LISTEN TO HIM ITS LIKE WATCHING CIDERELLA STORY MOVIE .ITS ONLY WHEN MOVIE FINISHES U GET HIT WITH ISSUES OF LIFE AND THEN I KNOW WHO TO VOTE FOR
GO HILLARYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Obama has a very powerful message of hope for the future of our country and the world. With Hillary its back to the likes of Madeline Albright who thought it was okay to starve half a million Iraqi children and after that Hillary wanted to kill another half million children along with the best and brightest of America. Does anybody supporting Hillary have a brother who has been maimed for life, unable to even recognize his wife and children in the Iraq war? There are 30,000 so affected in our country, not to mention the countless Iraqis.

How can the democrats vote for a pro-Iraq war candidate? Clearly Hillary has very poor judgment about national security.

The only real choice in this election seems to be Obama. He has reached out and gained the respect of many young voters and seems to be the direction this country wants to head in. He talks about in his book how after World War II the senators used to discuss the issues that were on the floor over a few glasses of beer. Republicans and Democrats in a relaxed setting, figuring out what is best for this country and its people.

Nowadays, and over the last eight years we've seen republican's push nothing but their values onto the rest of the country. Bush and Cheney have disgraced the Constitution and refused to accept any good idea that may have come from a democrat.

The truth is that is what our country had become. Most politicians stick by party lines and refuse to listen to reason. Obama, in all his idealism, has also hit on a philosophy that has lasted over a millennium: "All in moderation". The truth is that it is never the extremes that get the best results, but those ideas in the middle.

You will be hard pressed to find those ideas from the average democrat or republican. Barack is at least willing to listen to all sides and all parties. We are not a nation divided... thats a farce designed to gain votes.

If you want another 4 years of someone that cares more about their money backings and themself than the american people, then vote for Hilary.

You want a real change in this country where people come first, look to Obama. Every major bill that he has wrote has been from working with not just democrats, but republicans. He promises a government where we all push forward towards our similarities and what we all want (which is considerable).

Yes we have our differences, but those will probably never work themselves out. So lets focus on the likenesses we have.

Time magazine put Obama in the top 10 people that would change the world. Lets give him that chance.

As a republican, I'd love to vote for Obama. But then I realize he has the platform of the most evil organization of our generation, the Democratic party, behind him.

I wish him luck. I think if he beats Clinton in the primary he will likely be our next president. I will not vote for him.

Here we go the black thing again!

I am so sick of reading the same comments. I'd bet that if CNN tracks these comments by origin IP address it will show that 80% of the comments come from the same supporters.

At least if you use Facebook or some of the other internet blog site you can reply directly to the commenter.

ABC '08

Also, for you who has posted negative comments toward Obama's building bridges abilities as President because quote:
"The fact that republican are afraid to to be too outwardly hostile to him because (300 pound gorilla in the room) he is black and they do not want to be seen as racist?" It is unfortunate to hear that comment.

You also stated that HIllary Clinton is doing well not "because of a [political] machine that is because of strength. Strength that Hillary has continued to show. Strength to lead our nation."
This statement epitimizes the difference between those who support Obama and those who support Clinton. Yes, Clinton is strong and HER strength could lead the nation. Contrastingly ,Obama is strong but it is OUR strength with him that will lead this nation!!!!

As we all know, (and it is the main focus of the media) , that this is a historical time in US history, Black male, female candidate, however, I for one can not and will not just sit back and relish it. Unfortunately this time around, we can not afford to continue to focus on that because, right now we are in the fight of our lives. It will go down in history either way, but we really truly need to look beyond all of that and get very serious! How many times will I hear that someone will vote for BO or HC because of their chances of election!!! that's so over! I personally support John Edwards, not because he is white, not because he is a man, not because his dear wife has cancer, not because I want him to be a spoiler or a king maker. It is because I have been diligent in listening to the candidates intently, exploring the records, consistancies and very importantly, not just what they say but their ideas on how to do things. Please, what ever you do in this election, don't pass up this opportunity to make an informed decison, then vote with conviction, not popularity, not what the media guides you to do but what you have a right to do with pride.

Obama is the right man for the job , if you want something to actually get done.

If you like the way things are , vote for Clinton , she thinks just exactly like Bush.

Edwards did do better tonight , but the best he can hope for is the VP slot.

I want to remind everyone who states that Obama can not build bridges between ALL Americans that, I believe, you are not looking at this election in its larger context. For a moment, pull back and look at the situation. There are currently three largely supported political candidates running for the Democratic nomination. We, as Democrats, should not be subjected to divisive political campaigns in a DEMOCRATIC nomination race! Many people are going to disagree with that. It is not of our best political interest as Democrats to have a RESPECTED Democratic President mischaracterizing a Democratic nominee. Yes, Pres. Clinton is Hillary's husband, but he is also OUR last acting Democratic President. There is a conflict of interest in this regardless of how you see it. It is this conflict of interest that has prompted many respectable Democrats to ask Pres. Clinton to tone it down, ultimately to be conscious of the conflict of interest.. Let's stop the divisiveness by not playing into it; "Unity is the great need to the hour!"
Obama '08!

I will vote for Obama because he is the only one that can win in a general election. Clinton Is hated by the republicans and disliked by independents like me. If Clinton wins the nomination she will push every independent away from the party. However, If Obama wins then not only will he win the majority of the independents he will even get some Republicans to cross over.

It would be political suicide if the Democrate nominate Clinton. Clinton is nothing more than a democratic version of Bush and the country will be worse of then it is now.

Vote Republician if Clinton wins the Democratic nomination.

I think if HIlary clinton is the nominee she will lose. What is the US Presidency seat a Monarchy, Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton,... IF you want a monarchy, move to England. If you want a true President, Vote for Barack Obama.

Chaunda, allow me to be the first then to say it to you (as I've said it for the last year since I – and many of my fellow compatriots – converted into Democrats due to Obama's message. I will HAPPILY vote against any Republican or Independent who runs against Barack Obama. For so many years I've been holding my nose as I pulled a ballot and voted for what I considered to simply be the lesser of evils. Now we have an opportunity to truly elect a statesman. Someone who isn't mired in the tunnel visioned mindset that plagues both Democrats and Republicans. And I assure you I am not alone.

Obama '08!!!

P.S. And lest it go by you without notice, my kind (non-zealot, sane, rational voting public who looks at each individual candidate and not a party) is the one that decides general elections. So unless the GOP loses its mind and doesn't nominate McCain, I find it seriously laughable that Hillary will ever beat him given all of us moderates will flock to McCain (who second only to Barack is really the only other true statesman in this whole insane campaign).

Until this year I was a registered republican. I have changed it to democrat and have voted for Obama in the Iowa caucus. I will vote for Obama in the General election in November. I know of 5 other Republicans who did the same thing and will vote for Obama NOT MAYBE!!! I am sure we are not the only six republicans in the nation who have made the switch. I can tell you if it is Hillary Clinton as the democratic nominee I will not be the only "Republican switching back". If she were to become president she will be the left wing version of George Bush, I know I do not want to see someone who is as narrow minded as George Bush in the White House. She will not be able to solve any of the problems she wants to because it will continue to be the partisan fight we have now. We don't have universal healthcare now and the reason is she was not willing to work with anyone and it did not pass the first time she tried. Why don't we give someone else a chance to accomplish what she FAILED at when she tried. Also I am tired of her talking about all of her experience. She was not the president but the presidents wife. She was not the Governor of Arkansas but the Governor's wife. She was also a corporate lawyer for many years. I don't want that type of experience in the White House. I want a person who turned down the corporate job to help the poor and needy. I want a person that knows what it is like to be poor. I want a person who knows what I have went through needing to have two jobs to afford college. I want a person who has struggled to pay the bills and know what student loans are first hand.

Obama has never onced been able to unite democrats and republicans.

He gives great speeches that he can. Its a FANTASTIC political move. Especially when we see gridlock now.

However, his inability to defend himself and his record makes it very clear that he has no power to UNITE anything.

He can UNITE people, but cannot UNITE the politicians necessary to BRING THE ACTUAL CHANGE.

Obama fails to mention he has NO POWER to get Republicans to do anything they dont want to. What he has shown, he whines and complains WHEN THINGS DONT GO HIS WAY.

Hillary and Bill have been very effective in showing that Obama is more than happy to get into BICKERING rather than rally HIS PEERS into unity.

This was the Clinton playbook all along. Get Obama polarized. Get him to show he cannot UNITE his peers. Show his inexperience.

Obama is a POLITICIAN.

Obama came up with a political STRATEGY to run for president.

Obama has little national experience, so he runs on CHANGE and HOPE to sell a bipartisanship . Its the smart move.

The Clintons and the Republicans are NOT going to let him just get away with this highly effective strategy. Everyone knows it WORKS WELL if left unchallenged.

Anyone who thinks all these politicians arent playing major games is naive and just giving their vote away. Its all a chess match.

OBAMA COMPLAINED ABOUT THE ATTACKS ON HIM THESE LAST TWO WEEKS, THIS IS NOTHING COMPARED TO WHAT THE REPUBLICANS WILL DO.
THEY WILL BE OUT FOR BLOOD, NO HOLDS BARRED, THEY GO FOR THE JUGULAR, FOR THE KNOCK OUT BLOW AND THEY WONT PLAY BY ANY RULES.

OBAMA TALKS ABOUT HIS WINNING THE SENATE SEAT IN ILLINOIS AND UNIFYING THE STATE, LOOK WHO HE RUN AGAINST, 'ALAN KEYES' IMPORTED FROM OUT OF STATE, A SACRIFICIAL LAMB, SO FAR TO THE RIGHT HE WAS AROUND THE CORNER. NO ONE ELSE WANTED THE JOB.

OBAMA TALKS ABOUT HIS TIME IN THE ILLINOIS LEGISLATURE AND WHAT HE ACCOMPLISHED, FUNNY THE POWERS THAT BE IN THE LEGISLATURE ARE THE MAJORITY LEADER IN THE SENATE AND THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE. OTHER THAN THOSE TWO NO ONE ELSE HAS A SAY IN WHAT LEGISLATION GETS VOTED ON PERIOD. THESE VOTES ARE WELL ORCHESTRATED, SO SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVE CAN VOTE IN WAYS THAT WILL NOT HURT THEM WITH THEIR CONSTITUENTS WHEN THEY RUN FOR RE-ELECTION.

He proofed one more time that to attimes abstained from negativity is not a sign of weakness but character ,candor, integrity if we miss this chance we shall have ourselves to blame, John Edwards is good on message but he has a flawed judgement as evidenced by at least 10 major policy errors but i believe in his intergrity, he is also truthful if is permissible for a politician.
Obama / Edwards 2008

Lets put it simple.

NoObama. Why? He never answers the more important question: HOW? And when he unites the nation what is happening? Moving the United States toward a single party state? Last time I checked this was called communism.

Maybe Edwards. Why? He has a number of good and clear ideas. maybe he cannot cover everything but he is capable to stand for the class issue

Hillary'08! Why? She has the best coverage of issues, the vision on HOW to address them, AND she is the most pragmatic so this is how she can get to Republicans, not with words.

Bill, Bill, Bill. Barack Obama is none of those things. Before you can be a unifier, you have to know what you're unifying. The guy is all over the map. He can't give a straight answer. He contradicts himself, resents any question, plays the race card at every turn, and does not have a grasp on the issues. Why in the world are you guys trying to create a candidate that just does not exist? You'll soon be at the same level as Chris Matthews and the rest of MSNBC. Never thought I'd see the day when FOX News is really fair and balanced. Obama only gets half a free pass with them. By the way...when can we expect you to follow up on the Rezko matter, Obama's 130 "present" votes, and his affiliation with Trinity United Church of Christ and their racist agenda, and pastor (Obama's mentor) who awarded Louis Farrakhan as the epitome of greatness? Just to let you know we're waiting. After all, you're supposed to be "The Best Political Team on Television". Right? Then you should be discussing all issues, including those about Obama.

What evidence is there that Obama can "create coalitions". The fact that republican are afraid to to be too outwardly hostile to him because (300 pound gorilla in the room) he is black and they do not want to be seen as racist? They won't be scared to tear him a new one when he is the nominee and he gives them all kinds of fodder everytime he opens his mouth. The fact is they have been trying to take Hillary out for 15 years and cannot. That's not because of a machine that is because of strength. Strength that Hillary has continued to show. Strength to lead our nation.

never obama...muhamed...back to Middle East...

I think Obama can deliver what he is preaching about. The man is serious to unite this nation. This period of time, we need a president who is honest and trustworthy. We need a president who is a uniter not a divider and a president who can solve our own problems here at home and abroad.

Chaunda,

You say, "I cannot hang my vote on a "hope". Mind you that there are millions of people watching intensely the outcome of US Presidential primaries and yearn for a leader that will heal the world and bring America back where it belongs – that is center of the world. These millions would love to vote for the "hope", which Obama represent. Good luck with your support to Hillary and her surrogate husband.

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"

This country has been brought so far over to right and the current adminstraion has given the corporations so much power that I don't see how can someone proposing a "middle of the road" approach can restore balance of power to our government and restore democracy to our country by just negotiating with not much left to offer. That just doesn't make any sense to me. (FYI Barack Obama has taken corporate money too so I don't see how he can get around those "favors" he wil have to repay).

Henry

I am a very rational person. I support Hillary Clinton. I am sorry but Obama's "supporters" from outside the democratic party like to say things "I might vote for him" or "I like what his message of change" but never "I will vote for Obama over any republican or independent candidate". I cannot hang my vote on a "hope".

You are correct mate, Obama has such cross-over appeal that I will cross over and vote Rep. before voting for him. Because, in reality, what would the difference be? After all, he admires Reagan for being transformational.

Just keep repeating the mantra about the Reagan years: creditor nation to debtor nation, creditor nation to debtor nation. And here we are today, where sovereign funds are buying into our largest financial institutions.

One of the false claims of Obama and his supporters is that he has crossover appeal. The fallacy of this claim was exposed by the transparent and cynical attempt to look like he had crossover appeal by evoking Reagan and in his inexperience he flubbed it all up and sent a red flag to the blacks who actually KNOW what Reagan and his party meant to them in the 80's and a red flag to all those republicans who saw through his attempt to exploit them.

Obama is not leadership material.

Obama is our best chance for change. He is exciting and motivational, and Democrats will turn out for him in greater numbers than for any other candidate in the general election.

In addition, he has an extraordinary ability to bring moderates into the Democratic party. His inclusive language and tone make it possible for us to forsee a new way of American politics. A new way for us to unite for change in this country.

The Democratic base needs a presidential candidate who unifies all of America — Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike. Instead of tearing the Democratic party apart by making false allegations toward each others' senatorial records, the candidates and especially former presidents need to stick to the current issues facing America. If not, come election time, the Democratic party will actively implode, losing the trust and respect of millions of voters, resulting in a Republican presidency. Barack Obama is the candidate who will unify America, for he is the most genuine and honest candidate America has seen since Abraham Lincoln. Barack is humble, gracious, and introspective — three characteristics that defined a president who took on one of our nation's greatest conflicts, the Civil War. Barack Obama is the original voice of change. He has my vote, and I hope yours too.

Right on Makeba!!! We don't have time to listen to all the mud slinging. We want to get down to the "I will"; "by these means"; so we can decide who we believe can "clean up" American politics. The "have nots" of America are increasing in numbers every day, while the rich grow richer and we "have nots" are earnestly trying to make an extremely important choice!!!

Senator Obama and John Edwards are the most sincere in my opinion and Senator Obama is my #1 choice. He, I feel, has what it will take to pull in the Independents and cross-over Republicans. He can make history!!!

I live in Ny and know Republicans that have supported Hillary and are supporting Hillary. I am sure there are Republicans in Illinois supporting Obama. Assume they can both beat the Republican and then vote. I thought long and hard about that. Obama has an appealing message and he does the I am an ordinary American speech. Then I thought do I want an ordinary yet intelligent person running the White House, no I want an intelligent experienced person. THIS IS NOT A GAME and both Hillary and Barack take this race seriously. I am voting for Hillary because she is strong and she is for real change and she has proven that as Senator and First Lady.

Quoting Churchill and thinking about Hillary,
“You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life.”

Also ask ten people who don't like Obama why not and ask ten people who don't like Hillary why not. I have done it. The answers Obama isn't ready and his change doesn't get into the nuts and bolts and nitty gritty of how he will respond to unexpected issues as President. As President you don't have the time to always get consensus from the American people on how you should lead as a leader you have to do it not just vote present.

As for Hillary half the comments are related to Bill and the other half lead to her being a strong woman. That is exactly why some women don't support her because she is a strong woman. It doesn't make sense to me but go and ask see what you find out and please let me know

Obama has absolutely no chance of winning in November. True Republicans (not politicians, but real Republicans) will never elect a man who is a liberal as Obama. No Republican will elect a man who wants to hand out vouchers for Health Care. Hillary's plan makes much more sense and is palattable to Republicans.

Asking Barack Obama if Bill Clinton was the first Black president was hurtful. If he is elected, Senator Obama will be the first Black president. He will fulfill the dreams of Dr. King because he will overcome the racial divide in this country. He shows tremendous courage and civility..

I believe that it is ridiculous for us to want candidates to present specific plans with numbers, deadlines, quotas, etc. on any issue, and present it as if it is going to solve all of our nations problems. We all know that so much more goes into crafting legislation. As a life long Democrat, I believe that we require an individual who will be able to sit with all parties at the table, to craft legislation, and problem solve. Perhaps, at worse, in the end all will simply agree to disagree, but that is better than the hate and division that another Clinton administration would bring. Look at who is endorsing Obama, for the most part fairly rational individuals. He is not as left-leaning as I would prefer, but Obama is the only candidate who will be able to create coalitions, and also get us out of Iraq.

Obama and Edwards, are the two democratic candidates that can actually win in November. I like Obama more because of the perspective and the ways in which confronts issues. I would like to think that after George Bush, there is no way a republican candidate can win in November, but then I realized that by nominating Hillary is the one way the republicans can win. Please stop supporting a candidate that is just going to give the election to another republican.

Obama 08!!!

Democrats can "take on" the Republicans by fighting their ideas and advancing ours, and we can "take on" Republicans, as in "Welcome aboard! I see that 'enough is enough' sign on your forehead!" My point, obviously, is that there are plenty of Republicans who are sick of Bush and who can't find a worthy candidate from their team. That's why Obama took the extraordinary risk of pointing out (appropriately in Nevada, which has an open caucus system) that Reagan changed the politics of his day by reaching out with new ideas (mostly bad ones: supply side economics, brutal proxy wars against Latin Americans, union busting, environmental degradation, deregulation, and a dangerous nuclear arms race); Obama doesn't want to relive the '80s, he wants to move forward with progressive Democratic ideas and values. I think he's for real, and that he has the smarts and the political skill to do it.

Hillary Clinton has admitted that she would continue to accept money from corporate lobbyists. Now is a time for change, vote Barack Obama.

My first presidential election was in '92 with Ross Perot running as an independent. I was very open to an independent candidate and though I eventually voted for Bill Clinton it was not without considering the whole field. Many independents are interested in Obama but many are not committed to him. The fact is that the democrats can win just fine without independents or republicans if we vote as a party. The problem is we never do. This is the year that that must change.

People please commit your self to our democratic nominee who ever he or she may be. It is our only chance in the general election.

Obama is trying to get to point where democrats and republicans can really come together on issues that are affecting us as a whole. Obama embodies a strategy of "Parties working together, Not, an us against them." I

Exactly right, Diamond,

the only "unity" Clintons will generate is the desire to vote against them. Hillary Clinton shows every day more and more that she cannot make it on her own and her husband is a narcissistic megalomaniac obsessed with himself. His remarks are undignified and desperate attempts to smear opponents at any cost....Clinton slime is unbearable. All that Bill Clinton can inspire is a pity . I voted for his second term holding my nose, I will never make that mistake again. I'll vote for Obama. If he is not nominated, I'll vote AGAINST Clintons.

I think that it is a grand mistake for any democratic candidate to believe that they can effetely 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

Well said tina, I think Obama has something better to offer than the Clinton freak show. I hope he does win the nomination.

In order to affect positive change, we must engage the entire country, across party lines, across socio-economic lines, across race lines, across gender lines.

We cannot continue to believe that it is ok to have an "Us vs. Them" mentality and STILL get things done!

He is absolutely right
He would definitely win McCain
Everyone forgets hes the David against the Goliath of the Clinton dynasty chasing macnine

Obama can rally the democrates because he is a uniter. Obama did very well and clearly won his debate, Hillary knows by now that whe can no continuously try and explain what an orator has said, only the orator can explain himself. Obama is ready to lead and has the experience to prove it:

- Was a grassroots community organizer in Chicago beginning in l985, where he became a community organizer with a church-based group seeking to improve living conditions in poor neighborhoods plagued with crime and high unemployment.

- Attended Harvard and was president of the Harvard Law Review.

- Project VOTE organizer in 1992, where 120,000 new voters were registered.

- Worked as a Civil Rights Attorney, fighting for the rights of everyone.

- Lectured on Constitutional Law at the University of Chicago (for ten Years).

- Elected to the Illinois State Senate in 1994 (served eight years).

- Elected to the US Senate in 2004.

- Was one of few elected officials (Illinois State Senator) who publicly and courageously spoke out (before the Iraq war began); in opposition to the presidential preemptive war powers and the plan to attack Iraq.

The Clinton campaign is built to divide and detour and conquer, with personal attacks, 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 celebration month 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 different bills, Bill Clinton brought us NAFTA which has caused Americans hundreds of thousands 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 America, Obama is a uniter and can successfully negotiate across the aisles, boarders and oceans of the world, Obama is the one.

Obama made the point that no politician's hands are clean and he is not in anyway claiming that he is a righteous politician. They are all the same. I think Obama focuses more on issues than Hillary. Hillary has a "right to the presidency" mindset overall. If not her, who else? That is why her campaign is mudslinging Obama.

If you want to know, see or hear Obama's positions, either visit his campaign website, or attend one of his rallies. Same for Hillary and John. Debates are celebrity rhetorics and have little substance. By the way, Obama HATES debates and I understand. Debates are like job interviews. It only gives you a tiny peek into an applicant's abilities. You wont really know until an offer is extended and the applicant is employed.

Obama is the only one that can win in November because he has the crossover appeal!

GO OBAMA!

Obama for President. I've lost all respect for the Clintons, willing to divide the party if they could win. It is a new day, we all count and President Obama leading all of us, citizens of these United States of America to this new day, I say hallelujah!

Obama has been this way from the start with his something like "We worship an awsome God in the Blue states and yes we have some gay friends in the Red states" or something like that. After hearing him speak at the Democratic National Convention, it was obvious that he was on to something. As an individual who grew up 1. poor, 2. on welfare 3. on medicaid 4. with no heat in the winter 5. placed in foster care with my sister 6. who grew up in rural Michigan who also loved both Bill and Hillary (and would trade Bush one for the Bush in office now), who despised this war from the start and the wasted money that went with it; as a white rural woman, i am pretty much a representive of the Democratic base of the party. I am not sure anymore that I could vote for Hillary. I do not think that she can bring the country together, and she seems rather shrewed and reminds me somewhat of ROVE. Yuck. Barack seems honest and has integrity. If she does win the nomination she'd be wise to pick him as a running mate because for Democrats, the only one I have ever heard of who can bring in any of the Independents that I have known, well that individual is Obama. Oh an yes, I went to Michigan Medical School somehow so I understand the base, and understand the need for something new.

obama is very defensive and who does he think he is? he can talk about people and question them, but no body can talk about his past? the republicans are going to eat him up and why would he vote over 130 times present without taking a firm stand? that means he can't make a concrete decision. he was on the offense tonight and from his body language you could tell he doesn't take kindly to people opposing him.

As Obama said keep attacking that means he is ahead.To all of the Hillary supporters. What are you scared of if Obama can't win. You should attack Edwards.If Obama can't win why do you guys keep attacking him. Guess you are scared. HA HA HA!!!!!!!!

Yea, he has an appealing message, but I don't hear any specifics. I can't figure out why people seem to be so moved by his speeches. He certainly didn't stack up against Clinton and Edwards in this or any of the other debates.

I am registered rep and I have not decided so far Ron Paul is my guy but when it comes down to it if it were between Obama and Mccain it has to be Mccain. Sorry Obama is full of empty rhetoric. I have more respect for Hillary then Obama. which is saying a lot. Now Edwards and Mccain might get a Rep to go Dem.

We've heard this "Uniter not a Divider" speech before, and from both sides of the aisle. The more I hear someone say this line, the less I trust him.

The only thing you get from standing on a fence is a sore butt.

Exactly, with more and more Americans idnetifying themselves as independants, we need someone with more widespread appeal. Someone who can reach across party lines, include everyone, and get things done.

Democrats are not seething to only take on the Republicans. They are seething to make true change for the country. So, to answer your question, YES! I am not voting for Hillary because I think Barack Obama will be a better President. He will bring along independents and even some Republicans. Hillary can not and will not do that. I'd rather have a candidate fighting FOR the country than AGAINST the Republicans.

In order to affect positive change, we must engage the entire country, across party lines, across socio-economic lines, across race lines, across gender lines.

We cannot continue to believe that it is ok to have an "Us vs. Them" mentality and STILL get things done!

The Republicans always come out in droves as reactionary voters, doesnt matter who is running. Their motivation is one of animosity not consensus building. I can hardly believe Conservatives coming out in droves to vote for a man of color. Sadly........

BTW I am a registered Republican who will vote for Hillary, should she be the Democratic candidate

Good point Diamond and Obama is the only candidate that will do that.Otherwise there will be massive anti-Hillary votes on the Republican side.

My wife and I are Democrats. We desire to have an system where there should be penalties and substantial fines for politicians running for President who distort the truth of statements made by other candidates both within the Democratic and the Republican parties.

Surely, having to correct and defend their records takes an enormous amount of time which could be used to address the many issues that are important to all of us to make a more informed choice.

When all is said and done...when it comes to the final election race will play a big factor-after all we are all alone in the voting booth and the country-south, rural, large cities race is a factor!

Thank you Diamond E., I attempted to post a similar message.

January 21, 2008 10:05 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
If the Democratic base wants to win a greater majority in the Congress in addition to the presidency, his message ought to rally them. Hillary is simply too divisive. I know a great many within the "base" who just don't want to vote for her and the legacy of bush/clinton/bush/clinton.

I agree with Sen. Obama. It's time to end the partison rhetoric and divide which plagues this nation. Sen. Obama has tremendous cross over appeal and this is a serious threat to the entrenched political establishment. The American people lose when our government cannot play well together. We certainly need a system of checks and balances which includes aggressive dialogue but we can't get there if we continue to muddle ourselves in partison bickering.

Obama is the sole transformation candidate and will transform this nation and the world alike. I am a Republican and would certainly vote for him.

hey, i find it strange how savvy ohbama is going back and forth with hillary and john,yet as a blackman running for president he didnt explain at all how his plan on issue can be carried out.sounded like hillary and john edwards were clearer on how to do.dont need to be fooled man, your ethier able or not .its to serious for me cause i am a blackman .i know bill and hillary, you have not said anything other than your time for change speech.you have got to say it in english clear quit attacking and let us here in detail your health care bill etc.

I'm afraid if Obama is the nominee that John McCain is going to eat him alive and still have room for seconds on the VP nominee.

If Democrats are really serious about winning in November, they would strongly consider a candidate who is capable of attracting Republicans and Independents, as opposed to a candidate who inspires Republicans to come out in mass numbers, only to come and vote against her.

Again I think it can rally the DEMS who want a perspective other than the "CLINTONS"

If Obama wins or who ever wins will have to win back the BLUE VOTERS in MICHIGAN and FLORIDA. The National Dem. Party has disenfranchized and frankly PISSED OFF alot of voters in MICHIGAN and FLORIDA and they are not going to vote in Nov 08 unless there vote is asked for!

I think any Democrat will rally the base.

Thank you for pointing out the obvious. I have been asking myself the same question for the past several weeks. I believe it is called the Democratic nomination, and the nomination must be achieved prior to the general election. As a Democrat I am not concerned about Republicans who are considering crossing over the aisle (at least not at this point in the campaign).

It is kind of awkward to present political experience and then try to run as an outsider.

Personally, I don't need to reach consensus with the Red position. I think it is strongly reflected in our county currently and not in a positive way. The change in direction I want is away from right wing faith based trade policies, illegal slave labor, corporate rule etc and back to focusing at home and solving the country's problems.

This debate was disappointing in one very important area: climate change. Time and time again, this issue isn't even brought to the table by the commentators. This is the most important of issues right now, and it could also be a way for us to "mend our fences" with other countries by addressing new policies on this issue – more than "green jobs," we need to talk about energy policies that will directly deal with the current state of our atmosphere!!

Frankly I think Obama will rally the democratic base just fine to go against the republicans, I'm only concerned the dirty tricks of the Clinton campaign will keep him from getting the chance. To me, Bill Clinton has no more personal or political integrity or ethics than Karl Rove does.

Obama is the only candidate, in my opinion, who has the ability to truly inspire and motivate many people who have traditionally not voted in large numbers. His message of uniting, not dividing, stressing the best in all of us and our ability to work together, is something I've not heard from a candidate since Bobby Kennedy. As far as Hillary having all the baby-boomer female votes, I can tell you she will definitely NOT have the vote of this caucasian, female baby-boomer!

Look, Obama is trying to destroy Clinton's records. He thinks ronald Regan was a best president than Bill Clinton, please give me a brake. I don't he knows what he was talking about. I am still in support of Hillary Clinton. She would be the best President for American. Obama's lack of experience show in this debate.

I hope it rallies the Democratic base!! I think its something that Barack's campaign should underscore. For Democrats wanting the White House back, we need to recognize the value of a candidate that can attract independents and republicans in the general election, and a candidate that will forge consensus and build a coalition, versus a candidate that is highly polarizing – even within the party itself. I think we risk losing in the general election if we nominate a polarizing candidate.

He is the one Senator who brings about the importance of all of us, regardless of race, gender, economic, and other issues to sit at the table, he is the only one who is honest, even about his weaknesses.
He is not running on somebody's ticket, or making up 35 years of experience. Hillary creates division, that is her motto. I am an independent voter, who will vote for Obama given he is the nominee _ but the Republicans will have my vote if the Democrats appoint BILLARY.

If Democrats learn anything from the past is that elections can't be close. They have to be a blow out. Obama is right you have to reach across the isle and be a party of inclusion. The Clintons of yester-year think this is the 90's and many of her supporters just don't get it. The right hate the Clintons and the Clintons hate them...voting for her would be polarizing politics as usual. Voting for Obama is the future...ONE NATION....united we stand divided we fall.

OBAMA '08!

Absolutely. It's the the only way the Democrats can win. It's past time for us to put the shrill, divisive politics behind us and build on the things we have in common. For too many years, we've been told we're on one side or another of a line, be it abortion, tax cuts or immigration reform. In reality, we're a lot closer than either political debates or CNN commentators would admit. Obama is a voice pulling us together, perhaps just before it's too late to save ourselves.

His message attracts Independents and Republicans. That's a winning strategy.

It's up to Democrats to recognize it.

you are showing your biasis..Obama was talking the obvious and was being slippery like the worst kind of politician..he said less with more words,,just like a old time politician. I believe he is misleading about his past, present and future and am shocked at the people who are taken in by his copycat rehoric, His workers study the Kennedys flavor and MLK,Jr.'s cadance and need to carry pages and pages of notes on those men's speeches ..Obama is brown not black and never had to struggle. What does he know. He has very little in common to the blacks he is tryng to woo and the media is again not doing their jobs. Shame on you, how old are you anyway?

"but can it rally the Democratic base, seething to take on Republicans?" I think it's the only thing that truly can. We are all so tired of nothing getting accomplished due to political alignments. The needs of the people do not get addressed when those in power aren't working to come together to solve problems, but only want to be the ones who "win."

It's an appealing message, but Clinton is more grounded in reality. Barack speaks about a new vision of America coming together on issues, it is a nice dream and very hopeful but this is not about a 10th grade essay on American life. I need a candidate who has the real life experience of dealing with political adversaries, the real gritty philosophical differences on economics, 'who is entitled to what'. believe it the Conservatives are not going to be forging consensus and building bridges with the Liberals.

I think Barack needs the help of the Latino community in order to defeat Hillary in this race for the Democratic ticket. He has uplifted African-Americans in this country to believe that their vote will actually count this year. If he can drive that same energy into the Latino community, then I believe he has a chance defeat Hillary and the Republican candidate. I do believe this will be record year for minority participation in the upcoming general election. Whether Barack wins the Democratic ticket or not, he should be credited and rewarded with bringing new voters to the party.

I think his appeal to a lot of Americans is good for the Democratic base and useful in rallying the Democratic base which has a lot of voters that have felt disenfranchised by 'politics as usual'. I think there are many apathetic voters who would vote democratic if the party is not just voting to oppose republicans, but trying to actually get an agenda advanced.

This country needs to be unified so that we can find our way out of this hell we've been in the past 8 years. Go Obama!

I thank god that Barack Obama is making this point; that's how strongly I feel about it. Every since John Stewart made the point of how partisan politics is ruining American on CNN's political show with Tucker Carleson called Crossfire some years ago, this issue to me is something that is so very important.
Why in the world would the planets strongest most influential government want to play a sort of civil war in it's politics? We are constantly arguing over whether or not Iraq is in a civil war, yet we aren't focusing on whether we are in a political civil war ourselves in this country.
I would have to think long and hard about this next statement: But point could be made that this is the single most important issue in this election. If Obama stands for a major change (which, no denying it, we need); having a post-partisan government as he calls it would be THE change. Imagine if we stopped competing and just joined together for the greater good. Isn't that the ultimate Democracy? Some will argue that we need competition and sides because we aren't all the same; But, aren't we all the same? Don't we all have the same needs? Just at different degree's, at different times. We just don't all have the same history; and joining together and listening to one another is WHAT we have to do in order to understand one another.

Obama can and will be our leader,

Hillery just lost my vote tonite when she went to her slime bucket and tried to
call Obama a slum landlord lawyer, etc etc

Hillery- ITS YOUR INTEGRETY STUPID, you' ve proved this week, and especially tonight you have no integrety, no presidential demenor. My wife and I don't want a vicious divisive muck -slinger leading our party or our nation.

so long Hillery, Welcome Obama

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.

She just sits back and points out the problems but fails to offer solutions.

I consider myself part of the democratic base, and Barack's desire to bring us ALL together is exactly why I am voting for him.

Obama clearly won this debate. This was one of the best debates I've seen...

Well, some people are better debaters then others. And the media is going to jump
on every comment that got heated. As a citizen, I only care about the ISSUES and the differences and how each of them will solve them. I can judge their characters
without the bickering and without"keeping score" on who has the most wittiest (but not necessarily the most wisest) comments.

I think the candidates have been under tremendous strain on the campaign trail and it all boiled over. Now the media will blow this up and the Hillary haters and biased reporters will have a field day and the republicans can sit back and laugh while the Hillary and Obama engage in destructive attacks!

I feel sad that it came down to bickering. I want them to save their ammunition for their republican opponents. This debate doesn't make me proud of being a democrat. I hope they view the tape and see how silly they look.

If Edwards were less angry, I would vote for him. Hillary and Obama both came off like two immature little kids. There were no winners tonight, but alot of losers.
This was an example why there are so many people don't bother to vote.

Grow up!! Obama will win SC.

No it cannot because he is already looking past us democrats and trying to pull everybody else. Unite your party then go after the rest of the country.

The Democratic base needs a presidential candidate who unifies all of America - Democrats, Independents, and Republicans alike. Instead of tearing the Democratic party apart by making false allegations toward each others' senatorial records, the candidates and especially former presidents need to stick to the current issues facing America. If not, come election time, the Democratic party will actively implode, losing the trust and respect of millions of voters, resulting in a Republican presidency. Barack Obama is the candidate who will unify America, for he is the most genuine and honest candidate America has seen since Abraham Lincoln. Barack is humble, gracious, and introspective - three characteristics that defined a president who took on one of our nation's greatest conflicts, the Civil War. Barack Obama is the original voice of change. He has my vote, and I hope yours too.

Why would anybody want an in-experienced President.
In the real world, employers do not hire people without experience and yet here we are thinking or even considering that we can hire an in-experience President like Sen. Obama. Didn't we have enough of the in-experience current Prez?

I do not understand do you?

Barack Obama is our best hope for the future. He has a track record for uniting people. Go Obama!

I am moved by the democcrats. I've never voted in my entire life and I am 51 years old. As an African American women I grew up in North Carolina during segregation. To see the concern for women and monorities at the level of the Presidency is powerful. I've travel with my ex-husband for 20 years in the military and endure a war. I live in Killeen and the Fort Hood Military area. However, for the first time after seeing this debate, I turly feel like an American citizen and a valuable part of my country. My vote however will be for Obama because I believe in his plans for our country and his ability to accomplish it.

Lorraine
Texas

Sen. Obama is correct when he speaks of 'building bridges and moving past the red and the blue states.' I feel strongly about the words he speaks because I am a survivor of two of the so called 'broken bridges': one, I am an African American and two, I am a woman.

The words spoken to me throughout my youth and as a young teen were 'you have two strikes against you from the day you were born.' The two strikes against me are the broken bridges I mentioned above.

My question, how can one truly aspire to be their best when negativities such as the ones mentioned above is still a factor in one’s life?

It better unite the Democratic Party. With the GOP in a free-for-all over their collective soul, many Americans are looking for true leadership that will unite the country past microtrends and party bases. Democrats should open the door by suggesting ideas that appeal to all Americans not rehashing whether or not Reagan was good or bad. Clinton offers a battle of the past while most all of the other candidates are offering their visions for the future. Obama or Edwards can take Democrats to the post-partisan plane and if Democrats want to nominate Hillary to go against the GOP and possibly Mike Bloomberg, then Democrats will lose in 2008.

Yes. I think Obama can unify America against Republicans. He can even unify Republican, Independants and Democrats against the Republican party.

Americans are yearning for unity. We are sick and tired of half of our country hating the rest of us. We are sick and tired of "middle america" viewing the coastlines as evil. We are all one America that values our diverse ideas.

Scriptures state that a house divided cannot stand. If America continues on this path of self-destruction we will fail in our plans to improve our country and, embolden our enemies, while we bicker amongst ourselves.

First Timer

Why can't the press choose not to ask and report Race and Gender. I am white, 68 years old and anti Bush.

I am also negative because of the Republicans support of him.

I like when the questions deal with our economy, ecology, status in the world, social security, the need for people to vote their convictions, immigrationn the war and its resultsin cost of dollars and reults to American Families. I failed to mention our educated people who cannot find jobs nor the many who have been laid off.

When you reporters fail to report the low number of people voting in Republican primaries and caucas's, you inadvertently prop them up. You may want a close race between the two parties for president but not I. I want them to experience a landslide against them. Their actions in the last two elections which Bush won were insults to the american people,

What happened to the reporting of lost e-mails, actions of the preident, vice president, secretary of state Rumsfield, other cabinet members and Karl Rowe.
Ms Rice appears to be the only person who escape mischief.

Lastly, why is there no information as to how many convention deligates each canidate has won. How come we have not heard about items they have voted for.

Obama kept interrupting Clinton and interjecting and I think Wolf gave him leeway during the confrontantion

Sen. Obama's comments stated here, and his honest answers to hard quesitons should bring ALL americans together.

Obama's message may be appealing but he does not have any clear ideas as to what he plans to do. It's nice to say the nice things-dreams,etc. but I want to know what he is going to do for this country. I do not want to hear that he is going to pull out our troops asap. Iraq will fall victim to Iran. You think we are in trouble now–just wait if that happens. Obama needs a few years to season. Maybe next time Obama.

I think he frames this post-partisan "bridge building" as being a necessary step to moving forward on important issues - essentially, he makes it sound like can bring the parties together to advance his plans. He makes it seem as though without such collaboration - which he sounds ready to facilitate - nothing will be accomplished. However, he sounds like he wants to do this without losing sight of his plans to make dramatic changes. Framed in this way, I think he's more likely to capture the attention of some of those "seething" democrats.

For any person in our united states to vote for a president that refuses to honor our flag just one time.Has got a real problem. Put a white man in that position he would have been tried and convicted .Patriotism is where it all begins.Proud to be an American sound familiar.I don,t care if he,s black white or purple Im not voting for someone who is not proud to be an American especially a president for god sake. Im proud to be an American. How about you Obama THANKS J.D.

How can Obama be portrayed as uniting? He overtly pushes Edwards aside as "the white male" and makes comments that, while surprisingly, at least to me, draw laughter, are extremely divisive and would, if the roles were reversed, draw rightous anger (i.e., his comment about Bill Clinton's dancing abilities shows he can play it's okay if I said it yet it's stereotypical treatment of African Americans). Then, to close, he describes the populus of America as the bottom and, by inference, politicians the top. Hillary, thankfully acknowledges the role politicians have in affecting change (i.e., progress should never again require a mass uprising but, instead, effective dialogue amongst all citizens).

I do feel senator Obama's message for hope is a needed injection for the American people and galvanizing the American electorate .His message speaks to both young and old , black, and white and he has shown by winning in Iowa that he has indeed transcended racial divides. He is a man of purpose and for once we have seen an African American appeal to a wider audience.
He is an inspiration and i think his message of change can rally the American people at this fragile time in American history.

Building bridges, forging consensus, and moving past red and blue states is a dream of mine, as it is a dream of many others. In the state this country is in right now, nothing, NOTHING, could be better. At this time, in this place, in this world, we NEED a consensus builder.

I cringe at another 4 or 8 years of infighting, hating, bocking for the sake of blocking, nothing getting done because each party is so busy racking up bully points for themselves.

We've had that!

It doesn't work!

Building bridges, forging consensus, and moving past red and blue states... Working together as a people.

*sigh*

I think he frames this post-partisan "bridge building" as being a necessary step to moving forward on important issues - essentially, he makes it sound like can bring the parties together to advance his plans. He makes it seem as though without such collaboration - which he sounds ready to facilitate - nothing will be accomplished. However, he sounds like he wants to do this without losing sight of his plans to make dramatic changes. Framed in this way, I think he's more likely to capture the attention of some of those "seething" democrats.

Listening to Sen. Obama tonight, I couldn't help but see that he is and will continue to be an excellent role model for millions of young black men.
At a time when candidates put down Republican ideals(calling them "bad ideas") and insist on being negative or hatching negativity, I have decided that I want some fresh air. In terms of healing America's differences...in terms of having a rolemodel for ALL, Obama is the one. By the way: I am single, white male who historically believes in a conservative federal government, and I hope that I have the chance to vote for Obama.

Great Debate! NOT! THIS ELECTION WILL NOT BE WON ON EMOTION ALONE! Not one issue was really discussed. The CONSTITUTION WAS NOT DISCUSSED ONE TIME. WHAT A JOKE! THE REPUBLICIANS WILL WILL WIN UNLESS THE DEMS GET WITH THE CONSTITUTION

I believe in his platform because I think this country can only move forward when we end the partisan politics that seems to have proliferated since the Bush presidency. Attitudes in our current politicians do not seem to be what is best for the country but rather what is best for their particular party. Media "talking heads" only add to this polarization. i.e Rush Limbaugh, Ann Coulter, Hannity, Oberman.
The old slogan "united we stand, divided we fall" should apply to this country. We are at a point in our history where we have lost our standing abroad, failed in some of our economic policies, have lost our manufacturing base and have other countries buying out our businesses. So long as we are busy fighting one another with the red state, blue state division, other countries can concentrate their energies on becoming stronger than us.

Obama's approach works because few "Democrats" are truly interested in "warring" any more. And, more importantly, a lot of people who may sympathize with issues on both sides (Red and Blue) aren't motivated when they are made to feel that voting one way defines them now, tomorrow and forever.

Obama indicated he wanted a 60% majority to Push Through his ideas.

These are not Post Partisan words, Mr Schneider

"Obama scores at debate"? I believe Clinton is by far the strongest candidate tonight.

I am an independent and believe in Obama, his message and his campaign. Hard line democrats have to see that Obama is the only candidate that will attract those undecided, uncommitted, and disenfranchised to vote in Nov. and not only carry with him democratic values but actually get something done about them.

It is so sad to see Obama and Clinton spending so much time on historical retoric.....poor Edwards..After this debateI am thinking of leaving the Obama camp and leaning toward Edwards

As much as I have tried to like Barack, after tonight's debate, I've given up. He's so arragont! Hillary impressed me and I though Edwards did well. If I have to choose between Barace and McCain, I'll vote for McCain.

It better be – and it better be enough to win over the country in the election. I think that Obama is the best chance we have to really move the United States in the proper direction.

His comments appear to mobilize the conservative middle toward him, an effective strategy in fighting for the undecided vote. By being careful not to polarize one group against another, he's sending the message of being reasonable, advocating smart policy, not election policy. The candidate to move the most voters in the conservative middle should undoubtedly be the most successful.

Obama is our best chance for change. He is exciting and motivational, and Democrats will turn out for him in greater numbers than for any other candidate in the general election.

In addition, he has an extraordinary ability to bring moderates into the Democratic party. His inclusive language and tone make it possible for us to forsee a new way of American politics. A new way for us to unite for change in this country.

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?

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.

Sometimes pundits don't give Americans enough credit, even long-time party activists.

I need to clarify....no one or nothing would unite the Republican base like Hillary Clinton.

If the democrats are smart they will vote for Barack. He is the only candidate who is a sure thing to beat the republicans.

Obama is the one to get people to work together and finely get something done in this country.

Obama is vigorously deviating from his former philosophy of change to unity and consensus. The danger here is that he is alienating traditional democrats by apparently trying to appease republicans and independents so as to appear more elected among these groups.

Obama will be torn to shreds in a general election. He is a JUNIOR senator... spending the last 3 out of the 4 years of his term running for President. He lacks the experience to withstand Republican attacks.

OMG! Hasn't anyone told this man that this is a closed Democratic Primary? I'm sick of hearing his Republican pandering...'Obamicans' disgusting! Repubs have buried themselves...let them take awhile..a long while...before they come up for air...they deserve it!

I know we need to reach across traditional party lines, but I did find Obama's mention of the Evangelic Christians a bit scary. Why not stick to luring more moderate voters concerned about the economy and the war instead of those seeking to overturn Roe? I understand his need to prove his "Christianity" given rumors that still abound, but is this extreme necessary?

I generally rely on BBC, but upon peaking in, rather perplexed as to why CNN has someone from a hard right think tank commenting on the Democrats. Does it have someone from the Institute of Policy Studies doing the same re the Republicans? Just curious...

Yes, I think he can rally the Democratic base. The Democratic base wants to win more than the Republicans, and nothing will unite their base like Hillary Clinton.

Democrats lost the past eight years by not standing firm on issues, by not differentiating their position from that of repuplicans on critical issues like healthcare , criminal justice system, access to education, minority rights..candidates should just stop playing to the middle and show how a democratic president can create a difference and transform this country...I appreciate the decisive tone Sen. Clinton brings to this debate

Obama's message of a "pos-partisan" talk is what makes him my number one candidate for pres. He wants to work with everyone and fix the whole system. Unlike Hillary who mainly says that she is in it to beat Republican's (if I remember correctly she said that she knows how to beat them).

As a Republican I would like a change and someone that is inspiring. Hillary just seems like someone that wants to crush her enemies under her foot while doing the greater good. But Obama sounds like he wants to find anyone that wants to help no matter what and work with him. This gives me hope – hope that I think my parents heard when they listened to JFK, or hope my grandparents heard from FDR, or my great great grandparents when they read Lincoln's speechs.

Obama is beginning to make Democrats feel good about themselves again.
No longer is "liberal" a four-letter word.
He can unite the Dems and attract some Republicans and independents.
His voice is moderate and nonpartisan.

the point is not to rally the base. he speaks to independents and moderates from both parties. he is trying to get past the partisan crapt and the extremes that exist on both sides of the spectrum. we need more presidents that can bring both parties together and work through the differences in ideals. people who are tired of the blue/red conflict that the base of each party speak of; want a different kind of president.

i do not care if the base is rallied or not. i want someone who speaks to all americans.

"Post-partisan" is as true and has as much weight in the real, non-rhetorical world as "post-ideology" or "post-history", that is nil, zip.

If wishes where dreams beggars would ride.

It's delusional to believe that could happen, that it should happen at all.

The Republican attack machine in November will show Obama that his claim that right-wing Republicans will prefer him over their nominee. They bloddied McCain – because he is a moderate Republican. If he believes that the right wing will stop themselves because he is expressing a vague message of peace and hope, HE IS KIDDING HIMSELF!

We've seen it. On McCain, on Kerry, on Gore, on Ford (TN)

He is not strong enough. If he bleeds everytime Bill highlights policy differences and inconsistencies in his record, the Republican swift boaters will make mincemeat out of him!

I need a president who has balls. That character, ironically, belongs to the woman – Hillary.

All of the beforementioned items would depend on his choosing of a running mate. Not a Bush choosing a Cheney, who basically a yes sir situation (working both ways), but rather a Kennedy choosing a Johnson, a running mate who can add diversity to the ticket.

GO OBAMA! This is exactly what we need. Someone who is willing to go BEYOND the partisanship and reach across the isle to attract all voters. Mrs Clinton is not capable of doing this. She is strictly partisan in nearly everything she does and will only mobilize the Republican base even more than they were in 2000 and 2004. The American public wants change, and I'm not talking change from the Bush/Clinton regimes, I'm talking about change that will unite the American public and the there were two candidates on that stage tonight that are capable of doing this and neither one's last name was Clinton.

Obama converted me from Republican ties so I think he is what we need as a country for unity.

OBAMA IN '08 REAL CHANGE TRUE CHANGE ENOUGH OF THE Clinton and Bushes!

Obama has the American people ready for chance.

yes it can. He's the only one that can do it. John Edwards is a fighter. He's a former lawyer. That's how he made his money. Barack Obama is a negotiator. He understands that for anything to get done you need a consensus. He has gotten it in the past and he will get it when he is president.

Barak Obama's positions on bringing Americans together are the most fresh and realistic position in the campaign. Additionally, I believe that he has been successful in doing so and I believe that he can have an even greater impact on our nation by employing the same principal throughout the world.

If the Democratic base wants to win a greater majority in the Congress in addition to the presidency, his message ought to rally them. Hillary is simply too divisive. I know a great many within the "base" who just don't want to vote for her and the legacy of bush/clinton/bush/clinton.

Just watch what is about to happen. The Clinton machine is out to destroy Obama and they will succeed. They will destroy him, his family, his friends, his supporters and anyone else who gets in the way. They're already playing the race card, but the worse is yet to come. Just wait and see. It's coming, and it's going to be brutal! They will do anything at any cost to get what they want. That's the way they have led their lives, and nothing will ever change. Don't believe me? Just sit back and watch.

Really getting turned off over being sold 'inspirational'/building bridges...sounds too much like a player to me.

Imagine this discussion even taking place in corporate setting. (You build a 'bridge' with another company...and security escorts you off site!)

k

It's good, political-speak, but unfortunately, Obama doesn't have the depth of experience or knowledge to rally the Democratic base as well as Sen Clinton. Although so many of us wish for consensus & bridge building, I believe that many of us who are 40+ are somewhat jaded, and we are looking for a candidate that can clean up & manage the mess we will inherit. Edwards & Clinton also have great visions – but their depth of experience runs deeper.

Not too worry, the Democratic base will rally behind any of the three.

Edwards has proven that he is a legitimate candidate. Obama fell into the Clinton trap of defending their attacks and not pushing his agenda and Hillary further proved that both her & her husband are snakes in the grass and untrustworthy.

This is a must! Any candidate must be able to reach across the aisle. There is no way any democratic candidate can win, even with the current disappointment in the Bush administration; without convincing republicans and independent candidates to come to their side. Screaming and pointing fingers will not do it in the general election.

I think that his appeal to the majority of Americans would be the stimulus that the Democrats need. Avoiding the partisian politics would energize segments of the population that may lean to the democratic side, but have avoided politics secondary to not feeling that the political system addresses their issues, but is more interested in making the other party look bad.

I believe it can and should rally the Democratic party. As a Republican in Summerville, SC it has rallied me. For the first time in my life I did not vote in a Republican primary simply so I may have the opportunity to further Barack's campaign.

I cannot say for sure if I'll vote for John McCain or Barack Obama, assuming they are their party's candidates, but I'd like to see our Presidential contest elevated by both their higher minded activities.

Thoughtful candidates are few and far between, but these two men will actually speak their minds and allow for a thoughtful and honest debate. I only wish I could believe that any of the other candidates could give this level of honesty and forth rightfulness.

Barack Obama in his closing statement with regards to whether MLK would endorse, underlines his voting impotence.

Obama is still preaching a doctrine of no stance!

All three are not talking about the greatest discrimiation underway in the U.S. Age discrimination, and that is why this former IBEW member is voting for John McCain.

I do not understand how so many people can say Obama gives eloquent speeches. His hems and haws and ums and stuttering is very off-putting and irritating. And he NEVER answers the question that is asked! He talks around it.

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

I don't know how it plays with Republicans but isn't it time to move past partisan politics in Washington? Is that not the true meaning of change in this election?

Obama has vision, Edwards compasion, Hillary leadership skills. Republicans will chew Obama up and spit him out. He appeared weak and inexperienced. Hillary will rally the base and take on the republicans. She can and will win.

CNN has allowed Obama a disprotionate amount of the air time of this so called debate. This was the worst possible format that not only lead to squabbling, but seemed to solicit it from the participants. Is was not only disapointing, it was disgusting. I hope that somone will report on the amount of time that was alloted to each canidate. Wolf did a very bad job of managing the flow of the discussion and staying on topic.

Unbelievable! Finally, Obama came out swinging, this is the Obama i've been wanting to see. He's got my vote!

Of course he can. In fact, he is just doing that. Look at the synergy he has brought to the campaign trail. Why is he being attacked by the most powerful couple of the American politics. Where I come from we say "you only throw stones on a tree that has fruits".

By the way what is that Democratic base? Who are they? The women? The blacks? The Anti-war groups? If those bases were so important why did Al Gore lose? Why Did Kerry lose?

So my gut tells me, Obama will make it. He is still unknown but this is not the reason why he should change the democratic party. Remember Gorbatchev. He was unknown but look what he has done. Putin same. His heir same. So is Petraeus in Iraq. Unknown people sometimes are the one that make the difference.

The Democratic base is already rallied. Its just a question of who's best to run this country.

The Clintons have become bullies, they are control freaks and are using their status to get her way. She looks with a glare every time she is caught and cringes at the thought of a Clinton lose.
Obama has to put the ideas out to unite the country back to a time before Bush.

This is the type of message that we need to get thru to America. We are divided on so many issues besides race and gender. We need to come together as republicans and democrats to make our nation great for Everyone, not just on are individual biases

Honestly, I think at a certain point hyper-partisanship leads to one being able to treat members of the opposing party like enemies of the country. I believe that's how so many republicans were able to justify wire-tapping, and rigging elections.

People are beginning to realize that parties do nothing more than serve to divided our country, and it would be better to have a candidate that, ideally, did not have a party affiliation, or at least was willing to reach across the aisle. And any democrat who can't get behind that is as bad as any extremist republican.

I want to see him build a bridge with Clinton first (or vice versa). They really need to stop bickering. Then we'll see about the nation.

That was George Bush's line, wasn't it?

Barack Obama is a leader. He knows how and will unite this country and I am looking forward to his Presidency – He trusts and believes in the American People. Go Obama, 2008.

I'll paraphrase a question that was asked during the debate for my comment to this issue: Do Americans want to "win" the war that's been going on between Democrats and Republicans for the last 15-20 years, or do they want to END it

My perspective: if you want to continue to pursue "victory" (which, just like the Iraq war, will continue to sap American blood and treasure) in the hope that you can "defeat" the Republicans, then I guess the Clintons are your co-candidate.

If, however, you want to END this war and actually get things accomplished in DC, it's clear that Obama is the choice. I certainly don't expect him to change the Washington culture overnight- that'd be the real "fairy tale". But I do see him as a "light at the end of the tunnel" candidate who would say, "This war between Democrats and Republicans has been destroying our culture and weakening our country, and I refuse to engage in it any more,", and that is what our country TRULY needs. Democrats- PLEASE don't throw away your best candidate since JFK, just for the sake of continuing the Clinton dynasty!

Edwards needs to lose the lobbyist question – employing or not employing lobbyists in the White House is getting stale. Lobbying groups are always going to be around and of course Obama, Clinton and Edwards would most likely try not to support them by taking funds, but seriously folks – there is a policy group for everything, there is no way to put permanent blinders on. Yes, taking money and support from lobbying groups is bad – let's move on!

This member of the democratic base is seething at the Clintons.

A Hillary candidacy will drive me to embrace McCain.

I think that it can because we realize that his loyalty is to the Democratic party but that he will not be so hardcore partisan that we will not be able to work with an importantly garner support his election. Barack is the only candidate that could beat the Republicans hands down he was a charismatic, inspiring, rock star quality that would blow the repiblicans out of the water. If it is truly the desire to beat the Republicans as many democrats claim that it si then you had better put your eggs in Barack's basket it you want to win in NOvember.

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Hillary is right. Barak Obama refuses to take responsibility for his record, and that will just not hold up in a general election. How sad that he has consistently done the dirty work for banks and financial companies, while pretending to be for the ordinary working person. The first thing he did in the Senate was get up and speak in favor of the bankruptcy reform bill (on behalf of the banks and credit card companies) and that bill has left millions of consumers and seniors so much worse off. When will the media really put him on the spot about his record?

Unfortunately, the "post-partisan" talk is the same given by George Bush seven years ago. Note that he also appointed African-Americans to two of the most powerful and visible positions in the country.

I'm deeply disappointed that so many people seem distracted by Obama's race and Hillary's gender, to the point of not recognizing that Edwards has been leading all three in terms of progressive policies. Hillary and Barack have jumped on many of his bandwagons months after Edwards specified his own policies. It's the policies that count, not the color or gender (how much good have Condi Rice and Colin Powell done for black americans in the past seven years?).

Race and gender are important – but so is class. John Edwards is the only candidate who came from working class background and achieved his successes without family precedent; he is the only one who didn't go to an Ivy League school. He is the only one who still speaks with a very obvious regional accent. None of these qualities make him better or worse than the other candidates, but they make the point that his candidacy speaks to _class_ problems in America every bit as much as Hillary's candidacy speaks to gender and Obama's to race. Race, gender, and class – class is the silent member of the triumvirate, but every bit as sticky and powerful.

(correction)

The key question is can he create bridge of migration for "obama republicans" the same way Reagan built a bridge for Reagan Democrats. This is what he was driving at when he spoke of his admiration for the transformative Reagan in Nevada. Of the three candidates, he is the most appealing and naturally inclined along these lines followed by Edwards then Hillary who, to the contrary, is the most galvanizing dynamic existing for the Republicans.

Democrats would vote for gary Coleman if he were the democratic candidate…anyone but the Republicans.

Obama is showing genuine leadership skills that cross over party lines

I have asked several questions and made several comments regarding the camera angles of Hillary's backside. Each comment is preceded by a statement.." your comment is awaiting moderation". Does CNN support censorship? My comments have not appeared nor my question answered.

I think being a white woman in my husband is an arab american I belive he can I think that there is several ways that we can I a conservitive demacrat and hold many ideas that are shared buy both party and I a white woman and my husban makes 50,000 a yr and I am dissabled and I am 31 yrs old so for my ideas and home is of most americans is that all desirve consideration and hope and just because I am a woman and hillary is a woman should I vote for someone how cant keep her house and is still allowing this man to controll her how can she run a country

Obama is still not telling me how he is going to end poverty, provide universal health care and how he will end the war in Iraq. He is in the audience of predominantly African Americans and is seemingly getting claps even before he is saying anything. But he is really not addressing much. He is still hoisted by his own petard. And I used to be an early supporter of Barack. No more

At least these guys can evidently debate without a script.
Mac McCain has repeatedly spoken from script – shocked that the media haven’t yet picked up on this yet.

Steve – Former Republican
Well done you three!

Hello Mr Schneider,
The Cinton is the only strong Democratic candidate who can beat Republican candidate and fix the problems USA is in trouble with.

Bill i think that's smart for him.. we need a UNITER
Marq

Watch her when she is not "on camera". She gets the same smirk on her face that Bush has.

I think that if the Democratic core, or base, thinks clearly on the issue of either attacking Republicans or being a party of unity that they would choose to be a party of unity. The fact of the matter is that the Democratic party was brutally beaten the last two elections and that some people are letting that cloud their judgment on this issue. People are feeling the need to beat the Republicans with Teddy Roosevelt's "big stick". But the fact of the matter is that it would be a greater success, a greater victory for the Democratic party if they were able to win, by not only turning out the vote of the Democratic base, but to also "convert" members of the Republican party to vote for a Democratic candidate then that would be something to throw in the face of the Republican party, and would allow for there to be a clear majority of Democrats in Congress, which would allow for many (if not all) of the major policy issues that are the topics of these debates, to be accomplished by the Democratic party.

From The Netherlands I have to say Obama is doing an amazing job to stop the partsan politics we all know from America. Impressive!

Tonight as I listen to the debate I felt Hillary was the only one who spoke of her plan and gave answers to the questions ask of her and didn't dance around the question as Obama did. Go Hillary

Bill: You have expressed the right question. Obama will not rally the Democratic base. We want to win and only Hillary can do it against a republican. Honestly, we are seething to win back the White House.

YES! I am a die-hard Democrat, but I am so tired of the blue-red divide. We are Americans first, and we need a president who can be a leader for us all.

I do not agree with much of the GOP platform, but I welcome and encourage discourse and debate. These are not our enemies - these are our neighbors, our friends, our family. This is the very core of our system - this is pluralism. This is how we draw are strength - this is why they (should) fear us. It is not our military might, but our freedom and our shared liberties.

A great republican president, Abraham Lincoln, understood that a nation divided could not stand - and we have struggled these past years under the burden of terrible divisiveness and partisanship. We have lost our true patriotism - the pride that comes from a shared prosperity - despite our differences. We spend a great deal of time focusing our attentions on the opposition - on the disagreements and our differences; we forget to embrace our shared purpose. So, I have loathed the Bush administration (and I imagine many republicans have as well), but I welcome a return to a whole country in which we can all find something to be proud.

how can obama thank he can cross over and capture the white vote whin he took most off the black vote in navada and hillary took a mixture

I am not looking for a battle, but for a solution. I supported Clinton in 92, and 96, but with the fight the Republican (Gingrich Revolution) brought, now is time to end. We need to work together to bring America back from the battlefield of partisanship!

Obama talks like a Leader. I believe that he will LEAD our country, not just play the sided games. He is the perfect candidate because he appeals to people from all walks of life, all parties, all races, etc.
Hillary scares me half to death because she is so anti-Republican. We need someone that can bring everyone together not pull us further apart.

You spend way too mucy time letting Obama speak his mind. He talks around every topic and gets away with tap-dancing around every challenge.

If he wants to be our next president, he should quit belittling everyone else and say what he really intends to do.

I'm not impressed with him at all.

Well, it's won over this Independent and sometime Republican voter...Hillary seems to want to continue the partisanship and "war" between her and the Republicans from the 90's. If you want to bring out the Republican base, Hillary is the right choice. But what attracts Americans to Obama is his message of building bridges and working together. Lincoln built his cabinet from his foremost adversaries – maybe Obama is on to something.

Bill, I hope sure hope it can since it seems that before this country can get back to being a confident, trusted, and role-model type of super power, this country must work together and not be partisan. It will take a figure like Obama to look past partisan politics and to bring the country together so that we can regain the confidence and trust (abroad) lost during the GWB years.

Bill, Democrats want to win in November...... I think Hillary needs to make distinctions

Yes Bill, UNITING AMERICA is to me the MOST important thing. NO MORE Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton- Bush (Jeb)

The key question is can he create bridge of migration for "obama republicans" the same way Reagan built a bridge for Reagan Democrats. This is what he was driving at when he spoke of his admiration for the transformative Reagan in Nevada. Of the three candidates, he is the most appealing and naturally inclined along these lines followed by Edwards then Hillary who, to the contrary, is the most galvanizing dynamic existing for the Republicans.

Democrats would vote for gary Coleman if he were the democratic republican...anyone but the Republicans.

Interesting that they have anointed McCain the Republican nominee. I wonder if McCain is better for the Dems than Romney.

Just curious....who chose the chairs the candidates are sitting in?

Due to seat height and depth...neither Edwards nor Clinton can 'sit' in them without looking less 'presidential'. (Notice how Edwards is permanently leaning forward...if he didn't...his feet would barely reach the ground; Clinton leans back and looks stuffy)

Was this a screw up or intentional??????

k

It better rally the Dems. If they get bogged down in just a fight with the Republicans it will turn off many voters who then may not come out. They need those voters as their base cannot beat the Republicans on its own. Saw that in 2004. They need to reach out, and Hillary doesn't seem to be doing that enough.

'overcoming the politics of fear' – that is a coup and a distinction. Obama just found his voice tonight.

I went into this evening wondering if a Hillary-Obama ticket would be possible. Now I'm wondering if an Obama-Edwards ticket is possible. She's just coming across as an angry bitter screecher.

Obama scores on the fact that Hilary's too old school to take a completely fresh approach on our foreign policy.

Hillary is wearing me out. She is acting like a 4th grade bratty girl on the playground. Na na na boo boo. Please America: do not make her our president. Is this what we want representing us in the world? John Edwards is the only one with the class and common sense to bring this country back to a true democracy of the people.

Democrats have already taken on Republicans and won in the 2006 midterm elections.

Now what Democrats are ready to do is take on Democrats. After putting Dems in Congress in 06, Dems immediately saw that "their" winning candidates didn't have the spine they hoped they would. ONCE AGAIN.

Dems WILL rally behind Obama because he saw that the BIPARTISAN decision to invade Iraq would be a foolish, globe-upsetting disaster, and it has been. They know that if he wins, he'll lead us into the BIPARTISAN future of RESTORING INTERNATIONAL RESPECT FOR AMERICA.

Obama looks shakey and if often deferential to Hillary. There was missed opportunities challenging Hillary, instead focusing on Edward's concerns.

It better because it is the only way we will get real issues solved!!

Hilary sounds like she has been the only person EVER in Washington that has done anything. Her voice and eyes say " don't disagree with me because I'm always right." Now I know she ruled Bill...well almost..

What Obama is talking about is actually how to get these progressive measures SUCCESSFULLY PASSED! The old-machine politicals might be happy to keep winning elections by a hair's breadth, but without a WORKING MAJORITY nothing will change!! I don't want to just win so there's a "D" by the President's name, I want us to win so that we can actually EFFECT CHANGE! Thank you Obama!

I believe both Obama and Edwards can unite the country because I think both are leaders capable of inspiring people and forming effective teams from all parties. I think Clinton is Bush in a pant suit who will further divide the country.

Much to my surprise...Edwards sounds the most compelling....Obama rambles and at times looks defensive,,,and Hillary too often sounds like a shrill terrrier...this has been a fine broadcast...i am a smarter voter as a result...

At this point, Obama has the best stragedy for the nation!

There is so much side steping and double talk that I just turned off...its not a debate...its about who is more black or who is more in touch with the poor...total garbage ! The are all children of privlege and they just do not get it !!

It seems that Barack's message all the way up until now, has been rallying the independents and the Democratic base. I really want to see who wins in Florida even tho is doesn't count. I believe Barack's appeal is because he speaks that is straight to the point and his voting backs up his beliefs. I believe that Democrats are ready for a change from their politicians and not just having people in office how with jelly spines and loud mouths.

Obama is great. Read both his books. His message is terrific. But he has only walked on the earth for 45 years, and has not accrued the wisdom needed for the very complicated and demanding job of President.

There are REAL differences between these candidates and the Republicans. The debates between the 2 parites nominees will be electric.

1. Everyone all needs to get off of the continuing minor distinction lines about this poll or that poll and whether or not someone will do something or not when President, i.e. John Edwards continuing pointed attack against Hilliary Clinton about donations, etc., to who. He needs to get over it. Her point of putting the best qualitifed people. I would hope she does not cower to special interest and do not think she will to any detrimental extent.

2. All agree that they are for (and believe most reasonable people believe this) they desire policies to 'raise the tide and lift all boats' vs the Republican stances of everyone for themselves and sorry about your luck if you are not as fortunate as they are.

3. Get off the race issues. They are devisive and do not believe any of the three candiates is a bigot, racist, or other type individual who wouldn't at least try to serve all Americans, not just those of their party, religion, race, sex, etc.

If people would just take a breath, they would realize that Obama is the right man for the job at this time in our country's history.

It's been Bush, Clinton, Bush...each presidency get more and more divisive in its tone. We baby boomers are so into ourselves that we don't want to believe that it's time to cede power to the next generation of leaders.

Hilary, would be a good president, she is smart, tough, clever but she will not heal us, she will only deepen the divide.

If he can be startled by Hillary's attacks tonight and he is still stuttering...he's not ready for the Republican Swift Boat attack machine.

Consensus building is great, but only if you can stand up against the wind. If he gets knocked down under pressure, which appears more likely now...he will never be able to negotiate anything and will fold like a house of cards.

It sure does appeal to me.

I'm a traditionally democratic voter but I'd rather see a competent republican take the helm than see nothing change at all. If Obama has popular support and the delegate don't follow suit then what will be the result?

Seething?..... In order to affect positive change, we must engage the entire country, across party lines, across socio-economic lines, across race lines, across gender lines.

We cannot continue to believe that it is ok to have an "Us vs. Them" mentality and STILL get things done!

I just want to vote for all three candidates. let them draw straws for president , V.P. and Sec. of State! We would be safe, strong and respected again around the world.

It's a great approach but it's hardly novel. Quite frankly, it doesn't take very much to say that you're going to be the one to unite both parties. Whether you can actually do it is something else entirely and, personally, I'm skeptical. I find Hillary's approach much more realistic.

Yes it can rally the Democratic base and Republican base. I believe Barack needs to stay on message. There is not a red or blue America, but one America.

Obama is clearly Presidential. The attack on him is a healthy thing; test by fire.

H. Clinton speaks in a sing-song manner and after a while all of her responses have a dulling sameness to them. It's all "wonk."

Edwards would be a fine running mate as VP with Obama.

That's why B.O. draws independents & Republicans. Will he rally the Dem's? If they buy into his vision of a coalition between the three. If not, Hillary will probably win.

How can Obama think you don't need foreign policy experience? Did I hear that correctly?

Once again the same old same old is coming across, who can beat the Republicans? Inclusiveness is not coming across from any of the candidates. They are burning bridges they are trying to build by making the R word sound dirty.

Hey Bill...are you on Hillary's payroll? You are far from the detached analyst tonight. I am disappointed in you.

BG

Barack Hitting the nail on the head with his views on foreign policy and battling a possible Mccain showdown.

Obama is hands down the most uniting of any of the candidates. He gives incredible hope to all Americans. He gives me pride to an American again.

Post-partisan should mean non-partisan--inclusive. There's a reason President Washington warned against against the rise of political parties-they tend to stifle democracy.

Is CNN reinforcing this problem? Where are the independent debates? Where are candiates like Kucinch and Gravel, who CNN has excluded?

I find it interesting that Bill Clinton is consistantly brought into the mix and Hillary is asked how much influence/input he will have in her presidency if she is elected. I am curious as to why Barack is never asked how much influence/input Oprah Winfrey will have in his preseidency if he is elected and what exactly that influence/input will be?

It may not speak to the Democratic base, but what about the immense Independent middle?

It should rally the democrats-we can't be divided by the minutia! our minor differences will allow destroy this nation. Obama is right we need to build bridges with each other because bottom line, our differences define us as a nation. White, black, gay, straight, christian, muslim-whatever...we have the right to be whomever we want as is ordained by the constution. Its a beautiful thing to actually become one nation in more than words. This is truly an era that heralds something magnificent in regards to what we can become. Obama is the man to take us there. Clinton should be VP.

One of the greatest issues in this campaign, and one that hasn't been raised, is that of restoring America's stature in the rest of the world. I think that Obama does that. I also think that he is inspirational at a time when Americans long to be inspired. I also think that Obama's background indicates that he has the ability to unite disparate factions.

If Democrats are smart, they'll realize that seething isn't going to help our country move forward. Seething against the current administration has gotten us nowhere... being anti-Bush is not a stance, and I think many Democrats are eager to define themselves as something more than that. We can really make history by getting past this whole red-blue, black-white, you're-either-with-us-or-against mentality so that our nation can resume its place in the world again. Obama 08!

John Edwards rocks! He's bringing to light during this debate what most American's are thinking...

Dear God How many minutes does Obama get? He keeps saying Wait let em finish. Geeze shut up.

nah...it sounds very nice but everyone knows it is not realistic (even those that will blog and state that is what we need, etc. know it's all "blah, blah, blah)

obama...he should stick to being an inspirational speaker...he certainly 'ain't" presidential at all

experience, competence and a REAL chance of winning this election lies in a clinton/edwards ticket

I don't think so...It is a dream...not reality...Obama speaks in a tone of both parties working together...america is not set up that way...there are two parties...therfore two sides to every issue...it is the way it is..."Talking" about it is a long way from actually making it happen.

I completely agree with Obama – I am an avid Democrat and want to see this country succeed. We MUST move past the partisan bickering and more of the same attacks across the aisle – regardless of where it starts – will only hold back our potential. Obama is talking about exactly what we need to do to move forward. Clinton, in many respects, represents more of the same Washington hostility that we have become accustomed with.

Way to go Edwards, you made it crystal clear

Barack will be the next President of 2009.

Bill – In looking at the blog postings my guess is that the answer is – NO. The base, for the most part, appears to be swallowing Hillary's partisan rhetoric hook, line and sinker!

He just spoke of his Christian faith, but failed to mention that he's in bed with evangelicals from the "ex-gay" movement. Gay americans be warned–Obama is not your man. He had an "ex-gay" hate peddlar Donnie McClurkin at his "embrace the change concert."

Edwards is being treated like a red headed step child...ignored and overpowered by his older step sister and black brother !

I wish wolf was tougher and ask the lady about the the lies her her husband is spreding

This country has been formed from red and blue states but again his inexperience shows that he must not know that !

Hillary's a crook, I'm so tired of her. She has two people running against one, one of whom was an ex-president. This entire thing is ridiculous. I'm so disappointed by this entire system.

Why all these questions about Democratic base accepting Obama vs. accepting Clinton? I feel that Clinton will certainly energize republican base to get out an vote against her.

Pretty words only. Will do nothing to take on the Rebublicans

Large Democratic Majority foos!

hillary, blah, blah, blah. She is by no means inocent and above the fray!

Slogans are a good introduction. Yet, with democrats, the deeds are in the details. The democrats need an experienced leader that knows policy.

That's a good question. One would hope that he Democratic rank and file could think about the general. I have an acquaintance, a Republican, who loathes the Clintons, but finds Obama totally unthreatening. It's very telliing....

Hillary is right. Barak Obama refuses to take responsibility for his record, and that will just not hold up in a general election. How sad that he has consistently done the dirty work for banks and financial companies, while pretending to be for the ordinary working person. The first thing he did in the Senate was get up and speak in favor of the bankruptcy reform bill (on behalf of the banks and credit card companies) and that bill has left millions of consumers and seniors so much worse off. When will the media really put him on the spot about his record?

the dem base wants to win in nov...but we have to look past the primary to the general election, and obama is the one who will draw many diverse groups to him.. realistically, how many republicans would cross party lines to vote for Hillary? They HATE her. We dems will need all the democratic votes plus independents and some republicans to win this election.

C'mon Bill. When did you become a lobbyist for O'bama???

It won't rally anything, and Obama said Jesus, wow something is going on. Hillary is still the strongest runner. She can play bills sax. They better not talk about mccain its Guilliani they should be worried about.

he is connecting with many of us Americans....

They all talk about expenses and the economy. The amount of money that they have all raised to run their campaigns is obscene. This money could be better used in so many ways, have we really come to whoever raises the most money wins???

He just took a step backwards by invoking the name of Jesus Christ.
I thought our President was the president of all religions!!! Keep the rhetoric to
references to "faith."

Obama is not, and never will be, the "Great Uniter" he imagines himself as. There are too many people who vote party lines no matter what – on both sides. They're set in their ways and just because a charismatic black man gets elected they're going to change all of a sudden? Keep dreaming...

OBAMA SCORES AT DEBATE?????????????????????

COME ON BILL STOP BEING SOOOO PRO OBAMA..YOU ARE SO OBVIOUS

BE A MORE OBJECTIVE REPORTER WITH YOUR ANAYLSIS

HILLARY IS STANDING HER GROUND

Yes it can! Tired of not moving left/right/up/down ... we need to heal and move forward.

Now it's Clinton against Edward. Very funny.

I'm traditionally a Republican and he's got my vote!

hillary clinton is truly the winner, don't believe the press

The message is sound. Better than invoking the Clinton partianship of the past. Put someone in who doesn't invoke the unpleasant memories of the past and will be able to work with republicans better.

I am a life-long citizen of Illinois and a registered voter who usually votes Democratic. When Barack Obama ran for the U.S. Senate, I had never heard of him even though he had served in the Illinois state legislature. Whatever he had done as a state senator, it was NOT remarkable enough to make him known state-wide. The Republicans were immersed in controversy for illegalities committed by the out-going governor. The Republicans had imported a candidate from another state because there were no credible or scandal-free Republicans who would run for U. S. Senate. The imported Republican was African American and I always believed that state Democrats asked Obama to run so race would NOT be an election issue. He had also not done anything controversial, so he was a safe candidate. Obama ran virtually unopposed when he was elected as the junior Senator from Illinois.

As a Senator, he did not distinguish himself in any way that made news back in Illinois – the state that sent him to Washington, D.C. When he was chosen to speak at the Democratic convention, I was very surprised and just hoped he would make a nice speech and not flub up. He made a REMARKABLY ARTICULATE speech and I was pleased, stunned, amazed. Then I heard nothing more of him as he returned to do whatever it was he was doing in the U.S. Senate.

The next time he appeared was in some news article where he was asked if he would run for president but he said definitely not. Then about a year later, he was back in Illinois – announcing from the state capital that he was running for president. I heard the announcement speech. Another INSPIRATIONAL, MOTIVATIONAL ARTICULATE and WELL-DELIVERED speech.

YES! The guy can make speeches. Other than that, I see nothing of any importance that he has shown that would qualify him to lead this nation. Inspirational talk is great, but it is not enough to get any job going let alone completed.

Obama’s mantra – CHANGE _ CHANGE _ CHANGE – frightens me. GWB did nothing but change! His administration changed everything! 180 degrees of change on almost everything that was good and should have stayed to be improved upon even more. All dumped, damaged, gone. So now we need to undo most of what damage the GWB administration has done and try to restore what was once the U.S.A.

This is really sad, I have not heard anything of substance from any of these three candidates. I am afraid not one of the three can beat McCain.

I screamed at the TV tonight because I am sick of Hillary and Bill. I cannot stand her and I was willing to give her a chance. When she started attacking Barack, I saw her ugly ugly side again... the one that will do ANYTHING to win. I really do HATE her!

I'm not sold on Obama and I really hate Bush and the whole Republican thing... but I would vote for ANY republican before I would vote for Hillary.

I'd love to see a woman in the presidency...just not her and I'd love to see a black person in there too .... and I think Obama could be him.

I am just screamingly angry at the distortion and lies of the Clintons just to win. I don't want them in the White House and in charge of our country again.

When the house is on fire, you want the person holding the hose to put out the fire, not water flowers oversea's, without regard to the cost of the water

Your question is flawed in its asking, Bill, Obama is not interested in rallying Democrats intrested in continuing the partisanship bickering that divides this country, he knows we're not interested in that nonsense anymore, and that America is only interested and fixing this broken crap and getting the things done that need to be done so America can be the great nation that it aspires to be.

No, It can't. He will not be able to win a general election with his "wishy-washy" politics.

Hilary...way too aggressive, spends more time picking petty fights than communicating the issues

Obama...Defended his position well. Gracious to John Edwards. Intelligently communicated his position but I wish he'd stop taking the "fight" bait from Hilary.

Edwards...Good use of humor...Very good natured. Excellent VICE Presidential candidate.

I find Obama's inclusiveness very appealing. I'm a life-long Democrat, and am so tired of the partisan sniping.

For the sake of America, I hope so.

Yes.

Or at least, it should.

"...can it rally the Democratic base, seething to take on Republicans?"

ANSWER: YES IT CAN!

Seems as if Edwards is attacking Clinton now. Obama is smart to stay out the wat right now.

It doesn't matter, George Bush has already done enough to rally the democratic base.

I think that the candidates started out on the wrong foot: bickering with each other and interrupting each other. More civility needed.

I think Obama speaks to the working person here in America. Edwards in the same manner speaks to many Americans. Clinton does not appear to speak to the lower and middle class Americans.

Barack is going raise capital gain tax from 15% (currently) to I believe 28%, which will pay for the roads and bridges and health care and so on.....

I close my eyes to just listen. I am lasping into a coma listening to Obama. Clinton is amazing tonight. Obama is young,,, he needs time. Edwards is on top of his game tonight.
why does obama stutter before he speaks? What does the cnn body language wizards say?
and what a stupid comment obama said about if bill can dance he could be a brother.

It's time for democrats to do what's best for the country and not what's best for the party. Sure, we want to regain the White House, but at what price? All 3 candidates can beat the Republicans, but if we regain the presidency without changing the political culture and forming a working majority in the congress, we will not be able to make any meaningful changes. Only Obama understands the need for a new kind of politics.

It has rallied me... first time I will be voting democrat because I like the candidate as opposed to hating the candidate less... I'd vote for Hillary or Edwards, but only because I can't stand the republican party, if Obama is my candidate, I will go to the polls with bells on

Notice how CNN camera angles exposed Senator Clinton's backside numerous times during the first segment. They did not treat either of the male candidates like this.

Obama's a wonderful orator. Unfortunately his comments often lack substance. He'a a pro act leaving out the details.

Clinton is coming off as a well worn political hack, Where's the change?

Edward's is making them sweat tonight. He's the clear winner tonight.

It can not rally anything, and Obama said Jesus, wow something is going on. Hillary is still the strongest runner. She can play bills sax. They better not talk about mccain its Guilliani they should be worried about.

I don't think that's entirely true. He talked about Bush and Cheney making Republicans look bad and building the Democrat majority.

Notice that Hillary never talks about faith. Obama is the candidate option for Christians spurned by the right wing Christians the Repubs used to ride to victory. Obama is looking more and more like the candidate for all people.

hillary has passed more bi-partisan legislation than any other sitting senator – thats not post-partisan enough for you? stop the rhetoric.

It can't rally anything, and Obama said Jesus, wow something is going on. Hillary is still the strongest runner. She can play bills sax. They better not talk about mccain its Guilliani they should be worried about.

Hillary is obviously not a uniter.. Go Obama

I for one believe there are no truly red or blue staes only purple. The shade of purple varies according to region. Whomever is the Democratic nominee will need to find the right shades of purple to succed.

The only person on that stage that could bring people together is Obama. Edwards is out of the race and I can't even count the many people I know who would rather vote Republican than vote for Hilary.

You either despise her or love her and even with no other name on the ballot, 40% of DEMOCRATS put "Uncommitted" on the ballot than vote for her in Michigan. The party better pay attention to that.

I would hope it would be what the people of America would want. I real uniter and not a devider.

When is someone going to ask where Hillary got her 35 years of political experience? I am an architect and my wife has been married to me for many years, but she isn't an architect.

YES HE CAN!

If should, but our country has gotten so caught up in partisan politics that most people have lost sight of the greater good. If someone has an idea that is best for the country, it shouldn't matter what side their bread is buttered on.

Is a post-partisan position feasible? Will the Republicans roll over and play dead. Unilkely. Obama wants to change the game but Hillary's strength is that she knows how to play the game.

Was this debate bought out for Obama? It seems that he is the main one that gets the chance to speak – more than John or Hillary. He is permitted to go off on one of his oratorial speeches – consistently. I guess the press is still trying to give him a free ride!!! How sad...when our journalists are so biased!!

I'm sorry, but I feel that while Obama is talking, he is lecturing me like a 12-year old...when he isn't confusing the issue by the amount of words he uses. At least Hillary doesn't talk down to her audience and is clear in what she is saying

Lol. Obama is already running for the general, like he did when he came with the Reagan comment.
But he is not in the general yet !!

Are you kidding me? Bill, I didn't realize you were on the Obama payroll. That or you're extremely inebriated. Pathetic.

Absolutely! What has this democratic congress done with partisanship? We need an inspirational leader. Hillary will divide, not lead.

Then why isn't he (Senator Obama) running as an "Independent"?

A Debate: who is hiding more the democrats or cnn? where are any questions on immigration? Can't hide forever. cnn can't protect the democratic party, regardless of who the nominee is.

So disappointing in cnn!

Although I'm happy Obama wants to move past partisanship, I think he is being naive to whats going to come at him in the General. I would love to support him, but I don't want to take that risk, at least, not yet.

Running as anti-Bush didn't work in 2004. Unflappable liberals will vote the same now as then. I wonder how many people he can cross. In my opinion the least intelligent voters are the "far left/right" candidates. Barack has an ability to do some cross-over, but if its McCain it will be a real issue, hes the only Republican with a shot, and that's because he's known for not following in Bush's footsteps, and thats all that matters to moderate and conservative Bush-haters.

Barack is not ready for the big leagues, he needs to stick around and get more experience before taking on the highest office in our country. Lets get serious!

Barrack is a class guy, Hillary is about division........

As one who typically votes Republican, I find Obama's tone very refreshing and if the GOP insists on nominating another "business-as-usual" candidate, I would find Obama a much more attractive candidate for change. Hillary would never have the same pull on independents or socially-conscious Republicans.

why didn't Clinton try to explain her position as a fatcat lawyer on the board of Wal-Mart?

It is the appeal of both Obama and Huckabee. They are moving beyond the partisanship and gamesmanship of the Bush and Clinton machines.

Obama: too much rhetoric,not enough substance on critical issues.

Yes, the ones that want change will stand behind this much needed

NO! Democrats dont want someone who is going to employ ideas of both parties! If they did then they wouldnt be Democrats, they would be independents! Democrats want someone who will further Democratic ideas, thats the point of a political party!

didn't bush run the same message the "uniter"

It definitely should. I think the Dems who are just looking to destroy republicans with Hillary will not get their wish. She is the only candidate that rallies Republicans against her. Vote Obama to get a competent, well rounded, and effective Democrat in the White House!

This must be the message across the board for the Dems, as we have seen for the past two elections the Republicans will line up behind their candidate and it seems like we fall apart.

Yes. Nothing in Washington is going to change unless we have someone that is truly wiling to work with both sides.

No he's not ready for the top job. His resume' is sketchy at best. Both Edwards and Clinton have a better resume'.

I believe he lives in fairy tale land. Maybe Slumlord Tony Rezko can help him.

In a word.. No it can't. Mainly because of two reasons. Some democrats don't think it can ultimately work. and two. There are many that want republicans to live through what we have lived for 8 years. By electing someone they hate as much as we have despised the current president.

I honestly don't see the Democratic base as seething to take on Republicans. I think that many people in both parties are simply tired of the politics of division and want to move on.

Why should democrats play fair when the republicans never have. Its time for the democrats to stand up as a strong party not one that can be pushed around, and Obama will be pushed around.

The more Obama speaks, the less likely I am to vote for him.

YYYYYYYYYYYEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSS!
This is why this Republican is so thrilled with Obama!
It's what this country NEEDS!

If Democrats can recognize that Obama is a stronger candidate on a national scale, then he will certainly gain the edge in the primaries against Clinton.

independants, maybe. republicans? nah.

Who cares with Bill Schneider comments any longer. You have lost touch of the real game. You have got to allow voters to declare.

Is it really that important that we stick it to the republicans or that we get the things done that need to be done? I care more about doing the right thing then pissing the other half of America off

Barack Obama will unite this country....HE CAN WIN IN NOVEMBER...

Obama can only fight Hillary..not Republicans !

I am loving Barack's answer about reaching out to people of all persuasions. That is something Hillary is unwilling to do based on her experience of partisanship.

Once again, it's nice to speak of it, what makes him think he can really get it done? I would really like to know.

Obama is eloquent, but there is not substance to what he says.

I think that's something he should talk about in a general election. He should be focusing on the base.

That's the reason i lean strongly towards Barak of those 3, is for that fact. He never "starts" the finger pointing. Same reason I don't like Hillary, she always starts it. She loves the dirty politics, and Barak does not. That governs alot of my respect.

Im curious why Edwards gave so much respect to Mcain there? and not romney?
Maybe stategic, as the dems have a better chance of beating Mcain, so they wanna pump him up, instead of romney? interesting tho.

LOL Laughable.