Many presidents and politicians talked about "bi-partisan". In reality, there is very little bi-portisan in politics. Bush talked about bi-partisan too but what has he shown so far. The congress in 1996 was doing everything they could to block President Clinton's progress. Bush had republican congress an senate, it turned out to be a mess; more dishonestly, partisan….. I don't think Obama with so little experience would be able to do anything in bi-partisan way. Obama is only going to end up listening to those around him.

its funny. Immediately after the debate the dude from Times magazine gave Obama an A- and Hilary and Edwards a C. ..Since then pro hillary CNN has been spinning this one for Hillary ever since.

If Hillary wins nomination I will have to throw out my Obama 08 shirts and vote McCain

It is very sad to learn that the Clintons are trying to chase away Obamas white voters by talking more on race issue than other matters. At the moment president Clinton is working hard to attract voters’ attention towards race. He is trying to steel white votes from Obama unfairly. He told already to the media that Hilary will not get vote in SC because they fever Obama. This story aims not at the South Caroline election but to the Super Tuesday (Feb. 5). He is telling indirectley to the white voters to watch their back that race is very improtant. It sounds silly but it will be effective as there are many people who are skeptical to vote against their skin color. If this is the case at the end of the day more white votes would be for Clinton. Do the mathematics; there are more white voters than blacks in each state of America.

Hence, Obama has to watch his back and he has to mention his mothers story more often to defend himself from the Clintons race conspiracy.

After all the debates, I believe now Obama does not have a chance against the Republican machine, he could not take the pressure of rough politics. Mrs. Clinton has the experiance and tough skined in politics, ready to do the political battle. Both are good leaders, Obama lacks the political strenght to get things done.

I am perplexed by those who desire to back a winner. Why? So you can deceive yourself into believing tthat you participated? I believe thati If you do not vote your reasoned conviction, you are not only irrational but perhaps a few puppies short of a pet shop.

To Chris, Middletown CT

"Scumbag lawyer"? I'll bet you would want a lawyer like John Edwards representing you if a big corporations' product injured your child or family member so severely that she would have to have medical care for the rest of her life.

That is the kind of work a guy lke John does.

If corporations would do the right thing and take responsibility for their defective products, then people wouldn't have to take them to court, would they?

But, I'll bet you have a real hard time believing a big corporation would do anything wrong like gouge us all on oil and gas prices or pollute entire towns like Love Canal.

I'm sure your hero, George Bush, who used the courts to stop a recount and steal citizens' land by eminent domain (Texas Ranger Stadium) would never misuse the court system, but a guy like John who represented real victims and helped them would.

Next time THINK before you use personal invectice and make sure you know what you are talking about.

Edwards shows himself again and again to be the clearest, best, and most compitant candidate that we have.

I see him on stage with Obama and Clinto and he reconfirms why i support him.

Keep hammering the message home Edwards. Maybe America will start waking up to find you are our best hope.

Last night people saw how Obama doenst want anyone to talk about his record. He made up a ton of excuses last night for why he voted present. Maybe if he actually told people the real truth, people could decide for themselves whether they still support Obama or not.

God forbid that Obama or any of them defend themselves or their records without a bunch of us idiot political analysts telling them that they are whining. We can't all cry whenever we are down to win future races…whatever.

Either way, if Billary does not truly catch on, I will be so disappointed. Everyone knows that the Dem candidates are running more against the memory of Bill than they are running against Hillary. Everyone hopes for one more term with him, and that is sad. It is time to move on from the 20+ years of a Bush/Clinton America, do the numbers and include Dad Bush. Scary.

People are faulting Edwards for talking about the same problems from 8 yrs. ago, but guess what.? They are the SAME problems only worse. What he said and how he said it during last night's debate made him first class and in first place. He is the only one of the three candidates who is consistent , caring and courageous. When will the American people (partially myopic by the media) see this and stop being duped over and over by the others' rhetoric? Fool me once…

Obama was disgraceful in the debate last night. He was like a whining, child…a cry baby. He was only interested in having a tantrum and personal attacks.
We voters demand more of our candidates: we want to hear them talk about their plans, solutions, and issues. Hillary and Edwards managed to get their points across despite the immature rantings of Obama. Last night, Obama gave credence to his critics that say he is not ready to be President. I am a Democrat who will NEVER vote for Obama. If he is the nominee, I will abstain or vote for the GOP candidate.

No matter what Obama and Clinton say about each other, they will stick together in the end. I have already forecast that there will be a Clinton-Obama joint ticket for the presidency and they will win the election in november.

Does any one want to bet with me?

Hey people – really – it wasn't attacking on either side. Look, Hillary AND Edwards were just trying to get people to stop the love fest with Obama and ask the hard questions.

Notice – still no answers on:

1) How is he going to fund all he promises?
2) What do all of the "Present" votes mean? and why did you do it?
3) If you are going to pick here and there and attack others, then expect it in return.
4) How can you pull people together from across both sides when you haven't done it.

Can someone tell me how in the world John Edwards is still among us? After having come in third and a distant third, and 4% in the last election, lowest in every one of these elections and not having half as much money as Ron Paul, why is it Paul is not even considered a legitimate candidate still and yet the media keeps pumping John Edwards up there as if he were frontrunner? He still gets so much air time. What the heck is going on? I think the media is pushing John and why…?

Huh?? John Edwards barely spoke….and I think everyone could see he claims that "insurance is too expensive for most" – yet fails to mention that he's a scumbag lawyer who has sued insurance companies for hundreds of millions….where do you think that money comes from….are we that dumb?

Who cares? I did not watch the debate because Dennis Kucinich was excluded. Without him the debate becomes a he said she said bickering contest between Cliton and Obama and the public ends up hearing nothing at all on their so-called universal health plans, Iraq/Iran war stances, GAY marriage stances, the NAFTA, CAFTA, WTO nightmare, repeal of the USA Patriot act and IMPEACHMENT.

Don't let the media stop YOUR questions from being answered! You are being duped into watching an expensive infomercial for the media's choices for President. Demand that Kucinich remain in the debates or end up hearing more of the same bickering created by the press to sell headlines.

Bill Schneider is absolutely right. Edwards once again showed he is someone to be reckoned with. His presence last night made clear that this is the candidate who should be our next President. It is shameful the way the mainstream media has constantly ignored him when he alone has led this entire campaign from Day One. And he has forced Clinton and Obama to follow his lead. Last night showed the quality of this remarkable man. Let us hope, for the good of our troubled land, that Americans will support him even while the pundits and talking heads continue their manipulation of the voters by talking of nothing but the ridiculous horserace, and continuing to ignore the best candidate of the lot: John Edwards.

I didn't see Hillary attacking Obama at all. I did see her doing what the media refuses to do, that is asking Obama to explain his actions. Maybe some should go on the internet and take a look at his relationship with his investors and what they are doing with public money and his voting record in Illinois and Washington.
Nobody should get a free ride in this race. It's to important.

Amazing, how so many people can see the same thing and walk away with a different perspective. Must be why they say eyewitnesses are not very reliable in the justice system. I'll be glad, knock wood, when this is a done deal.

I prefer the candidate that appears to have the ability to forge a consensus in America. And that candidate looks like Obama. I also prefer someone that can carry his weight and ability to think. That looks like Obama. Obama stood there last night in the debate and took on two opposing candidates and weathered the storm. He was not aggressive or argumentative, he just took what they had to offer and kept his cool and made his points. That the kind of leader we need.

When Bill left office, the world was in a state of scandals; the democrats have paid for their sins in office since those scandals and the nation cannot afford another 4 years of Republican attacks.

The Clintons have and continue to give the BEST sources of scandals for the Republican machine to start the attacks from day1; recall what they did to Gore and Kerry!!! Simply stated, if the Dems do not want to lose this one (now that Independents like me are in their corner), they should stay away from the Clintons!!!!

Go Barack! Go John! The Dem's WINNING TICKET: OMABA /EDWARDS '08. Remember, in order to get the WH (BACK) you NEED to get 270.With any other ticket, you will lose the WH (for 8 YEARS, not 4, don't kid yourself), the senate (55-45, AGAIN!) and of course the Supreme Court (a Conservative court, nonetheless 7-2 yup, KIDDOS, it's gonna be 7-2! ) MARK MY WORDS. But the saddest part is gonna be that: YOU,as a voter, YOU could've CHANGE the (WASHINGTON'S) RULES once and for all but you decided that you were better than that. What a shame, what a shame…INDEED.

If Obama cannot stand up to the Clintons NOW, I do not see how he will survive the Republican machine come November. We should THANK the Clintons for giving Obama a work-out. If he can work through this and come out victorious, then maybe he can handle himself in November. If he keeps whining, then I'm looking elsewhere.

John Edwards is looking mighty fine right now.

Democrats are in trouble all around. They are so divided it's pathetic. As an Independent I really think the Demcorats are really hurting themselves in big ways.

At first I thought they may have a chance, but now I really don't thinik so. I now a lots of Dems who will never vote Hillary, no matter what and if Obama gets the nomination the former Hillary people will go nuts. The Dems are really imploding.

As an Independent I'm really shifitng my focus back to the Republicans. Dems you need to show me and others, who are the ones who really swing the election, why we should vote for you. So far, you're exausting everyone including your own!

Does everyone who thinks Hillary would never be able to get legislation thru Congress if elected and Obama is the great unifier, please explain why – tho not passed because of GWB vetos – there are more bills sitting in congress now jointly sponsored by Hillary and prominent republicans than Obama can claim in both of his senatorial stints (state & us)
Not to mention her ability to stand up to congress if by some chance the dems don't win back a 60 and 2/3 majority in Nov, while I truly believe in that case the republicans will steamroller the new kid, Obama

why leave a comment when you won't put it on unless it tis for Obama? I have posted nmerous times supporting Hillary and it never shows up.

Thank you so much for mentioning JOHN EDWARDS. I feel that we all need to reward a positive approach, and positive politics. He represents what we need the most in this country; some good news and a "one corps" style of government. The media has turned this process into a joke, until finally JOHN EDWARDS said enough is enough and he laid down the truth last night. I think he is the one we need running this country, I hope he can get a few more headlines. We should never comingle politics with entertainment.

I am a republican and think it is inaccurate to say that I am afraid of Obama, actually I think that I would vote for him.

I agree that Hillary would unite the Republicans in a very similar way the last couple of elections have.

Actually, if Hillary wins the dem nom and Bloomberg runs as an independent, it may be interesting.

You people that say you would not vote for Hillary, could you state your case against her?
You have nothing, just mere hate, "what has she not done right"? I bet you have nothing. Is it because she stood by her husband and you could not stand by yours?
You want someone who will bring this country together, its Hillary.
Hillary has kept her family together and that's proven, unlike Rudy……..
You want the World out of this mess in a very sensible way, vote for Hillary, regardless of what CNN and it's like are saying.
I just don't understand what the Clinton's have not done right, don’t you just hate them for no reason or jealousy.
Like i always say "Love America and the World before you hate the Clinton's"
When Bill led the World, the World was in a better state, so I don't know why you hate them so much.
CNN you will be wrong again just like you were wrong in Nevada and NH

As a democrat, I am SADDENED to hear fellow democrats claiming that they would stay at home or vote for a republican if their desired candidate didn't win the party nomination. I am REALLY, REALLY WORRIED now as I absolutely do not want another 4-year Republican rule. Please do not let your emotions run high, my fellow democrats!! Let's give our FULL support 100% to whoever wins the nomination, Obama, Hillary, or Edwards.

It seems like Obama doesn't like it when people call him out on his record. His performance and disposition last night was unbecoming of a President. He was clearly uneasy, heated and incoherent. He had an "excuse" for everything. I've also noticed that he always says "that's not what I meant" and all this fluffy and naive mindset about change and bla bla bla is getting TIRED. George Bush used that same argument about change and brining back decency to the Whitehouse. Look what we got? Bush did not lie; we surely got change! We changed from a surplus to staggering deficit. We changed from peace and integrity in the World to shame and War. We got respect for the American people and civil liberties to spying on Americans, revealing our spies to the public, neglecting Americans in Katrina. I can go on and on. With all this said, please Obama and your supporters stop this nonsense with this Change and this fluffy talk. We need substance, depth, experience and the ability. We need someone who is equipped and capable of delivering this "change”. We need the Senator from New York, not from Illinois. America will send Hillary Clinton to the Whitehouse!

Hillary for President!

I watched the debate last night and I was a big supporter of Senator Hillary Clinton. I thought she was best equipped to lead the country and unite us. However, after the debate and based on the performance of Obama and certain revelations that came out concerning is "present" votes and dealings with a "slum lord" I am now a BIGGER supporter of Hillary! I believe she can challenge the Republicans in November and win! This is a woman of substance and strength. She takes no crap and will fight. She has the ability and experience to make changes on DAY ONE. She stood her ground between two men and will stand her ground for America. God Bless America!
We need change and the experience and "know- how" that is needed to make the change.
This is coming from a 25 year old African-American male.
Hillary Clinton, the Black community loves you and Bill !

Clinton News network. Every time I write something bad about OBAMA you post it and then later, I'll write something bad about your GODDESS QUEEN HRC and you never post it???????????????
Is there a website that does not pre-screen the posts, and CNN you station is a Joke. A monkey could run this station better than the current people you have doing it.

Always ready to add wood to the already hot fire, you should call you station, Making the news as we see it, screw you, the average american.

OK LETS GET THE DEMOGRAPHIC OUT THE WAY SINCE IT SEEMS TO MATTER A LOT 23/BLACK/FEMALE OH AND EDUCATED……….THE DEBATE LAST NIGHT LET ME FURTHER KNOW THAT OBAMA IS THE BEST CANDIDATE. HILLARY WAS MORE FOCUSED ON WHY WE SHOULD NOT VOTE FOR OBAMA RATHER THAN HER. EDWARDS WAS PLAYING THE BANWAGON TRICK LOOKING FOR THE VP SPOT. AND OBAMA COULDNT ELABIRATE ON ANY OF HIS IDEA BECAUSE HE WAS TOO BUSY DEFENDING HIMSELF AGAINST THE PETTY ATTACK OF HILLARY CLINTON WHO BY THE WAY STARTED THE WHOLE THING. HOW COME EVERYTIME I WATCH HER SPEAK I THINK IM WATCHING A RACE FOR HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING COURT ITS VERY PETTY. AS FOR FORIEGN POLICY HILLARY CAN NOT TALK BECAUSE SHE VOTED FOR THE WAR TO BEGIN WITH WHICH I THINK WOULD HAVE BROKE HER FACE IF OBAMA WOULD HAVE BRANG IT UP IN A NEGATIVE WAY. IN A PAST DEBATE HE SAID I GAVE FUNDING TO OUR TROOPS EVEN THOUGH I OPPOSED WAR ( WE GOT THEM OVER THERE WE SHOULD GIVE THEM WHAT THE NEED TO DO THEIR JOBS AND KEEP THEM SAFE). AN DO YOU THINK THAT ANYONE FROM THE MIDDLEEAST IS GOING TO GIVE HILLARY THE TIME OF DAY IN REGAURD TO PEACE TALK ETC. THEY DO SEE WOMEN AS THEIR EQUAL IN THEIR OWN CULTURE. SHE DOES ALL THIS HOWLING ABOUT HOW OBAMA NOT FIT FOR THE PRESIDENCY BUT IF/WHEN SHE GETS ATTACK SHE PLAYS THE SOFT CRYBABY ROLE WHICH ALSO LOST ALOT OF WOMEN VOTES.

FOR THOSE WHO LIKE TO DO SPEECH GYMNASTICS

I THINK OBAMA WILL LEAD THIS GOVERNMENT TO UNITE TO GET THINGS DONE DISPITE THEIR PARTY DIFFERENCES (LIKE REGAN DID). THATS WHAT HE MEANT WHEN HE SAID WHAT HE SAID ABOUT REGAN.

AND WHEN SHE GAVE ALL THAT PRAISE TO MLK I JUST PLAY OVER AND OVER IN MY HEAD WHAT SHE SAID ABOUT LBJ AND HOW HIS ROLE WAS GREATER IN CIVIL RIGHTS – BUT FUNNY THAT DOESNT COME UP ANYMORE.

I WATCHED LASTNIGHT AND I FELT REALLY BAD FOR OBAMA I PRAYED AND PRAYED HE DIDNT CRACK AND THAT HE DID NOT

SO IN CLOSING I DONT THINK WE WILL SEE BAMS ON CNN CRYING EVEN WHEN THE REPUBLICANS GET A HOLD OF HIM

O-BAMS 0-8 O- YEAH

All you men who likes Hillary, are you all still living with your mom? i thought so. Time to cut the apron string and stand up for yourself. Take a look at NH results, all ladies who are patronizing and mucho opinionated.

For all you Latinos out there, the Clinton era is in the past. Bill did a great job the first 4 years of his presidency but not the last 4 years. Meanwhile, the Clintons have stepped on lots of toes. Voting Hillary for Bill is so romantic but impractical. You guys are just VOTES, plain and simple. The Clintons would not fight for you.

First, I think that both CNN and Scneider demonstrate an obvious bias towards Obama. Second, I can see why the "un-Bush" approach can be construed as the future and a desired political approach rather than "old Washington". Old Washington having had us declare war on Iraq, ruin, ruin, ruin the economy, and further debilitate our ability to maintain social security and medicare benefits. However, it occurs to me that Obama has neither the experience nor the foresight to achieve the consensus that is necessary for change. His comments about healthcare for example – "…we cant decide these things behind closed doors, we have to let the American people have a voice.." While I am sure that is what many wish to hear, it is a painful example of what a neophyte he is. Achieving consensus in Washington is like lining up the colors on a Rubrick's cube. I honestly dont believe he is seasoned enough to be an agent for change. There is only one democratic candidate that has demonstrated the resolve, the experience and, frankly, the belly to not only play with but handle the "big boys". Hillary has the requisite intelligence, the expertise and long standing experience in Washington having negotiated the WhiteHouse, the Senate and the feeding frenzy of the press. I am not one to respond or participate on these blogs but I feel so strongly about this that I had to write. Hillary is our best chance…..

It seems like Obama doesn't like it when people call him out on his record. His performance and disposition last night was unbecoming of a President. He was clearly uneasy, heated and incoherent. He had an "excuse" for everything. I've also noticed that he always says "that's not what I meant" and all this fluffy and naive mindset about change and bla bla bla is getting TIRED. George Bush used that same argument about change and brining back decency to the Whitehouse. Look what we got? Bush did not lie; we surely got change! We changed from a surplus to staggering deficit. We changed from peace and integrity in the World to shame and War. We got respect for the American people and civil liberties to spying on Americans, revealing our spies to the public, neglecting Americans in Katrina. I can go on and on. With all this said, please Obama and your supporters stop this nonsense without Change and this fluffy talk. We need substance, depth, experience and the ability. We need someone who is equipped and capable of delivering this "change" . We need the Senator from New York, not from Illinois. America will send Hillary Clinton to the Whitehouse!

Hillary for President !

Liar , Liar, Pants on fire. Hillary got what she deserved. Let's see, 4,000-130= 3,670
issues voted on. At least Obama is not a Blind follower. When in doubt. opt out.

Go Obama, Go

I've been watching from Canada, and so don't have much invested.
My impartial view is:

Obama – for the first time seems a little rattled, and throughout the debate still talked in generalizations, but for the most part talked well. I enjoyed that he was able to get some jabs in to Hillary, although at times it came across as defensive. His 'inspirational message' is now not new, and seems a little used, especially when not backed up by much nitty-gritty.

Clinton – seemed to be on her game, and was to the point, decisive and eloquent. She seemed to be able to talk about the facts, as she saw them, while deflecting jabs that came her way. She also managed to inject some much needed passion into her responses. She seemed the most comfortable up there.

Edwards – at first seemed a little unsure, and over the course of the debate stuck firmly to his mantra 'the mill-workers son'. But it's now way over used, and drew laughter after about the twelfth time. He could have used the time to get into the details of his candidacy, which he failed to do. He did eventually manage to get stuck in, which was good to see, but his attempt to 'stay above the fray', made him seem reticent, and a little like he was out of his league.

Final Analysis – While a lot of folks might think that the spats where un-presidential, it's just part of debating. After all it's much better to have the candidates interact under pressure than have a safe sterile environment. Obama didn't do badly, but despite some booing Clinton came off the most in control, the most on message and (surprisingly) the most passionate. It was her night.

I don't support any of the three in particular. Of course I'm interested in the race purely because the world should not have to endure another Republican.

Once the primary's are over the best thing the Democrats can do (one-way or another), is put forward a Clinton/Obama ticket. It would unite the party… and win the Whitehouse.

"anti-Bush" is more affective than "un-Bush". Anti is more active/aggressive. Remember Kerry? His was un-Bush – all he had to his credit was not being Bush, and it wasn't enough, as we all know.

To be somebody at least be anti somebody!

Just because Obama "says" that he can unite the country, why is everyone believing him? GWB told everyone 8 years ago that he was the most experienced candidate that would work with everyone in office… and see what we got!! Everyone in the Dem race is inexperienced to lead this country especially with all the dangers we face. There is no one in the Dem race better than a junior senator and none of them stand for anything but "change". No one proclaims "how" to change. McCain should have had this job 8 years ago. C'mon everyone, the writing is on the wall, we can't afford anyone but McCain!!!

I'm wondering when CNN will ask the questions about abortion, gay marriage and religion to these three canidates. Let's make the playing feel equal for both the Dems and Repubs.

I disagree with the analysis of this article. Clinton, Obama and Edwards are all proposing the same things with very minor differences…bigger government, get out of Iraq, government controlled health care ect…..

The differences are with their approaches in the election campaign and the methods they are deploying in order to win…

Clinton: showcase the diferences between republican policies and democrats while pushing certainty for voters with her experience

Obama: win voters over with general over-all promise of change. Cross party lines and attract the discontent moderate republicans…in doing so, the approach is do not offend republicans nor democrats…take a maybe stand as much as possible to attract people of all stripes.

Edward: push the populist message to take advantage of the current feel on economic worries, healthcare worries and job worries.

Outside of the 3 different campaigning approaches, they are all pretty much the same so I think democrats have an easy choice…..just vote for one who you think will have the right stuff to implement what they are proposing…that could be talk, experience or passion. Obama's got the talk, Clintons got the experience and Edward's got the passion. Take your pick…

I am an African American female 59 years old. I started out as a member of "Women for Obama". I heard the speech and it's the same well crafted speech that he has given over and over. I am sick of hearing how devisive Hillary is. We have never had a candidate with such a grasp on the issues that affect this country. Any man with half her credentials would be the Democrats clear choice. I sometimes wonder if we are watching the same debates( I have watched them all) because she has won all of them. Hillary has no problem speaking for herself but I am sure if Bill Clinton were able to campaign for Obama or Edwards they would be saying when can you get here. The Republicans can't wait for Obama to be the Democratic candidate so they can eat him up alive. Politics is tough and I can envision Putin saying to his translator "Where did they find this guy?'Obama makes it clear he thinks the game is over and he is on the steps ready to be sworn in. He has yet to tell us where he stands on anything. How naive does he think we are. 5 Hours of work and he finds you a $1 million home. 100 present votes?I know it would be great to have a qualified African American but this is not the person. We need a President for all of the people and as a life long Democrat who still believes in what the Party stands for, it's Hillary all the way!!!

i am a bit suprised at the amount of information the voters pick up at these dabate events.specifically the obama present votes,his employment with a slumlord,ect… his record and history should be presented to the voters BY the media.the media should stop trying to make this a horserace and make all the information about these candidates,good or bad, available.the obama candidacy reminds me ot the bush campaign of 2000 plenty of blah blah blah,but no specifics and when cornered, a lot of dancing, stuttering and flip flopping.

C'mon folks. Just wait. Bill Clinton is a smart and politically savvy guy but give him time and a mic and he will destroy Hillary's claim to the White House. It might be next week or two years from now (if she is lucky enough to win)…but he will do it. It will happen and our country will have this same "oh crap" feeling we have with the Bush/Cheney administration. .

Seriously, I'm fed up with the leadership in this country. Leadership…hmmm, interesting word. Tell me, who in the last 20 years can you say you've been proud to follow? Bush #1? Clinton #1? Bush #2? or Clinton #2? None of them have shown they have the integrity, ethic, and credibility to run what is (or was) the greatest country on earth. I say we call our leaders on the carpet (Obama, Hillary, Edwards, Republicans, and Congress) and challenge them on this very issue. I'm fed up with this gang-like behavior we have in Congress…us versus them mentality. We need true leadership at the top. Yes, I'm a supporter of Obama but I have to say Edwards was the only person that showed some characteristics of a leader last night.

Hillary a leader? Good question….

I'm baffled by people criticizing Obama for his attacks on Hillary. I don't enjoy politics like that either but to be fair he has to do something to defend himself. Since the Clinton's lost Iowa they have been attacking him and in a very nasty way. I am very familier with Baracks position's and I have watched the Clintons not only distort his views, but get real nasty. At some point he has to call her out on this and also raise doubts about her the same way she has about him. Otherwise, she is the trustworthy one and he is now a damaged product. At least now they are both a bit tarnished. But let's face it, the Clintons were nasty and many people have praised her and help hand her 2 consecutive victories. It is unfortunate that Obama has had to resort to this, but I fully support him. I would do the same if I was geting knocked around by Bill and Hillary the way he has. So when he fights back people get all mad at him and talk about how negative he is. I hate negativity, but enough is enough. if I was running I wouldn't allow my campiang to be called the biggest fairy tale our former president has ever heard of either. So I support Obama's handling of the debate and if people don't like negativity then vote for Obama or Edwards, If you do, vote Clinton.

so just what is Shrillary's 35 years of experience??? as a wife?

Listen folks wanting to become the president of the United States in no joke. You have to be tried and tested. Why can't Obama be called to the carpet? Why can't he be held accountable for his past behaviors/votes which is a strong indication of the kind of presidency he will run. The media wants to keep him as the sweet little poor black guy who has paved the way for African-Americans, while that may be true you wait until he gets the nomiation and has to contend with the Republicans (talk about defending one's records)!!!!!

Hillary is a class act, she is experienced, confident and has a passion for the middle class, I am an African-American woman and I really resent the fact that African-Americans now have the nerve refer to Bill Clinton as making racist remarks or making race an issue. He has being their darling forever – the first black president who has such a strong affinity with blacks in this country and now all of a sudden because another black man is running he's now racist????????? Give me a break!! Tell me race is not a factor, if there was no black man running do you think we would have this problem??

The truth of the matter is that this is really unfair to the Clintons, if you like Obama power to you please vote for him but don't pretend that race is not an issue becaue that exactly is what the blacks are projecting.

Hillary: You go Girl…don't worry about all those black folks player hating you, you don't need them to win and that is the horrible truth of the matter. DId the blacks vote for the Republicans who have had 8 yrs in the white house?

HILLARY ALL THE WAY – that's my girl

I think that Hillary will make the best president. I think that she is the most knowledgeable and strong on the issues that are facing us in this turbulent time. I like Obama and Edwards, and I will vote for either one of them if they get the nomination, but there is some much to be repaired after Bush. I think that Hillary can repair the damage made by the awful Bush administration.

I also think that some people here need to quite being so emotional about this whole thing and think about what is best for our country. Saying that you will not vote for so and so candidate is an immature way to make a decision about an election. The republicans have destroyed the U.S. for the last few years, and we need to elect an democrat more than ever. So any democrat will be a refreshing change. To say you will vote for a republican if you do not get your way is childish.

I am voting for Hillary in my primary, but will be happy to vote for any democrat that gets elected. There is too much at stake to throw away a vote to a republican.

I hate it when the squaking heads on Foxnews interrupt guests constantly and won't let them speak, and I hate it when politicians do it as well. I didn't see most of the debate, but while Obama for the most part was reserved when Clinton spoke, Clinton kept trying to shout Obama down when he had the floor. I swear to god, after her showing tonight if she wins the nomination I'm going to bow out of the election and let the chips fall where they may. As a lifetime democrat, I could never vote for a Republican, but I could also NEVER bring myself to vote for a person with a severe personality disorder such as Hillary's, even if she may share some core values with myself.

Go Obama!

AFTER READING MANY OF THE COMMENTS BEFORE MINE……………………..

CONCLUSION: PEOPLE HAVE ALREADY MADE UP THEIR MINDS AND IF WE HAVE CLINTON AS OUR CANDIDATE, WE'LL LOSE. TOO MANY REPUBLICANS HAVE VOICED THEIR TOTAL DISLIKE FOR HER (AND BILL). IT WILL UNITE THE REPUBLICAN PARTY……………………….THEY WANT TO GO AGAINST HER, BUT ARE AFRAID OF OBAMA.

WE NEED TO WIN THIS ELECTION…………………VOTE OBAMA, 2008!!!!!!!!!!!!

The initial arguments and bickering were unnecessary, but through it all I believe Obama did an exceellent job. He explained his position concerning the Ronald Reagan comment and I thought it made sense, that Reagan created a coalition in order to push the Republican agenda. That was the SOLE point of that statement. There's just too much dirt on Hillary for me to be swayed by her nasty political tactics. I do agree with Obama, that she should be the "voice" of her campaign and NOT Bill Clinton. That is ludicrous. Edwards did well tonight also, but I do not think he has the ability to win the nomination or general election.
Obama '08

Former Sen John Edward did very good job on the debate when he was given a chance to speak between the bickering Sen Obama and Hillary. Mr. Edward keep on trying to stay on the Issues don't get caught up in that mess

OBAMA OBAMA OBAMA….

HULKlary is way too polarizing.. She definitely lacks the charisma of her husband

Throughout the debate EVERYTIME Hillary was given the opportunity to discuss the issues we are facing she instead, resorted to the old-political scheme of attacking another candidate and distorting quotes Obama said in the press. Because we know the media ALLOWS reports the facts!! IS ANYONE ELSE TIRED OF THIS NONSENSE!!!! We need an intelligent President that will work to get a consensus on core issues, to get legislation passed in Washington. I don't believe she can get it done. The Democratic Party needs a candidate that has real chance to get the votes not only from the democratic base, but independents and republicans (which most republicans despise Hilary and would vote more so against her as opposed to for the republican nominee i.e. 2004 Election).

I believe that our elected officials need to focus on the issues faced by the average American worker and NOT lobbyist and S.I.G.'s!! That's why I'm voting for Obama and I hope Edwards is he's V.P. I implore all votes to take an unbiased look at the candidates and their stance on the issues. I hope you won't vote for a candidate because of their name is Clinton and are feeling nostalgic about the good old 90's or vote for Obama because he is black (which is a vote of ignorance) and this is coming from African-American voter!

Senator Obama,

Thanks for an informative and incisive comments you made last night. you cleared some things on my mind.

your differentiation between substantive discussion or articulation of issues AND explanations about the questions raised by competition is appreciated. on the one hand, the voters scream for specifics, while your competetor tries to distract you and wear you out with barrage of unsupported questions and criticisms making you have to try to explain complicated situations in 30 seconds. i see your predicament, and deplore the sleazy tactics of your competitor.

However, your "reagan style trasformative politics" is absolutely ill-conceived, as that's what you refer to as your "vision" or method of "unifying" the country.

If luring the desperate working poor's votes with the the voodoo "trickle-down of wealth from the top" promise (as reagan did for his victory) is your notion of "Unifying" the country, you're indeed one of many Reagan democrat including Billary who will NOT bring CHANGE but contunue the status quo with a pretty face.

Bill Clinton did exactly whar Reagan did, only for the Democratic party: he lured the voters with "middle-of-the-road" policies that was nothing but the republican ideas, so that he could grab power. yes, he united the country under false pretense that he was different from the republican competitor (he didn't claim a direct line to the guy above, for instance) when he was NOT. he practically ruined the democratic party by destrpying its political roots and thereby its credibility. is that what you mean by "unifying"? both Reagan and Clinton pushed the nation to the right further and further, out of his "macarthite" idiocy in reagan's case, and out of bottomless appetite for power game in Clinton's case.

Genuine unity will come about when you clearly make your case (about the direction in which you want to take the nation, in as specific terms as possible) to the voters and convince the majority that that is the direction they want to take. If that direction is different from the current direction, you can call it change.

I recognize significant difference between what you suggest as your approach (method) to current international issues AND that taken by Bush and his democratic collaborators so far.

but how about the goal? what is your goal, your vision, that you are trying to achieve through your smily approach or your deplomatic, non-military, method? is the goal also different? or same? Articulate it, if you are capable. Make your case for the goal and the method for the goal to the voters. ignore the mass media, and speak directly to the voters. go to your own website and write it out yourself. respond to your supporters' and potential supporters' questions.

and please, drop the empty words like "hope" and "unity" for goodness sake. they don't help you make your case, unless you have no case to make in the first place.

I also appreciated your clearly pointing out how absurdly harmful "mandating health case coverage" (or suffer the fine without coverage, i must know as i'm in massachusetts, the home of insurance / finace industry and capitol of medical-pharmaceutical industry) when it's not affordable. that's WORSE THAN SIMPLY NO or overpriced COVERAGE, the status quo. it's guaranteed boon, for sure, for insurance and medical industries. for-profit industries are never known for their best efforts to drive down the price and thereby their profits at any cost.

You can argue that, by making the corporates have to compete in the "transparent market" , you can drive down the price of coverage. but by the end of the campaign, you should be able to build and make your case (through actual and honest numbers) for single-payer (government) universal health care as the best option. trust me, the voters are desperate and ready for real change.

Please address how you're gonna straighten out the finacial industry and its criminal loansharking that 's robbing working poor out of their hard-earn wealth, how you're gonna reverse the completely one-sided corporate-written laws put in place by the lackey congress of both parties for the last three decades.

Tell us voters what you're gonna do about the fascist war criminals in the WH and on the Hill, as well as in the military-industrial-thinktank complex.

John Edwards will make a fitting running mate for the general election. Please consult with each other. Please include Dennis Kucinich in your circle: you won't lose any votes. you'll only gain votes. Forget about the neo-cons and their pundits. they are absolute minority. They can only thrive on your fear.

Insincere suggestions and empty rhetoric will NEVER unite a nation the way it should. Change requires Change in the mind and heart of the people. Make your case clearly, and hope your charm will help in the perocess.

I am SOOOO sick and tired of the media and the Obama supporters beating up on Hillary and being nasty at that! Why is it OK for Obama to attack her, and by the way he was the FIRST one to attack last night referring to the corporate lawyer comment. Now, when Hillary fights back she is being "rude" a "typical politician." You Obama supporters CAN'T have it both ways. If he attacks, he better expect it back, although I wish none of the candidates would attack. Obama said he put in 5 hours of work for the slum lord. Well, he still was a slum lord and you need to stick by your convictions and not put ANY hours in to working for that individual. If Obama is going to lay blame, he is just as much to blame for his actions. I still have not seen anything that Obama has put forth to make me change my mind that Hillary is the best candidate for the nomination. HILLARY 08!!

As a republican tired of Bush, if Hillary wins, she WILL NOT GET MY VOTE! If Obama wins, I am all for him. I am tired of the Bush/Clinton reign over the last couple fo years, and the debate last night proved that only Obama can bring this country together.

Southern Republican

I'm so glad that I watched this debate! It was clearly NOT Obama's night! He spent so much time trying to figure out ways to answer questions posed to him! NOT VERY PRESIDENTIAL! He was ONE LOST OBAMA all night long!

Hilliary was the winner on this night! She looked, acted, and sounded very Presidential! There is no way the "spin doctors" can detract from the positive support from ALL OVER THE COUNTRY; it wasn't just South Carolina! Hilliary has the ability to unite, to lead this nation.

I think John Edwards did a great job in the debate. I think there is one thing really hurting him. I know we aren't supposed to be discussing looks, but that is what his problem is. He is nice enough looking, but while he is talking, he squints, wrinkles his nose, winces, wrinkles his forehead, etc, constantly. Half the time he looks like he has indigestion, and the other half the time, like he smells something. I don't know if he can't help it, or if he is trying (unsuccessfully) to look sincere, or what, but I think if he would watch some film of himself, it might help him.

That said, I am still for Hillary. GO, Hillary!!!

The South Carolina debate was indeed an eye-opener. For the first time, attention was brought on Sen. Obama's record and specific's of his plan. I found it amazing that Sen Obama has been carrying his campaign on a very powerful oratory – and successfully too. So far he has managed to keep the national attention on his message of 'change' well. But he seems to be falling short when it comes to actual specifics. I do not remember a single specific response from Sen Obama on any of the issues. By contrast, both the other candidates were putting forth specific plans and proposals on the table and willing to stand by it.

Bottomline, while Sen Obama seems great on style, I feel he is terribly under-prepared on content. While there is no doubting his noble intentions, putting him in office means the same mistake of putting a Bush in office. Remember, he is also a noble man but does have no clue on the way to execute it the right way.

Watching the debate last night was absolutely stunning. According to the nationwide polls, Clinton and Obama lead over Edwards. Without question, what we could see and understand from the debate, is that Clinton/Obama are MORE focused on themselves, and NOT the problems facing this country. ONLY Edwards was focused on the needs of this country and NOT personal vanity! We have many problems-Iraq war, Economy, Oil, Health Care, Poverty, Infrastructure, the list goes on and on. I can only hope that we finally get a candidate who GETS IT–it is NOT about YOU but US -we need help!

To say that Reagan got things passed because he worked with Democrats and didn't demonize them, is a ridiculous comment. Reagan used downright dirty tactics, in my opinion, to get the Democrats to side with him. He is the reason that the American middle class is shrinking slowly into poverty. He started pushing the middle class down a hill that we are still slowly descending. He worked against unions and increased our tax contributions. Any Democrat who was swayed by Reagan, was either an idiot or a coward.

OBAMA DID EXACTLY WHAT HE NEEDED TO DO. WHICH IS TO SHOW THAT HE CAN STAND UP TO THIS DOUBLE TEAM POLITICAL CAREER COUPLE AND HIT BACK!!! JOHN EDWARDS DID OK BUT HE SOUNDED LIKE A BROKEN RECORD. HIS ANSWER FOR EVERYTHING IS "POVERTY"

Count the minutes. more time was allowed to Obama who kept raising his finger to Wofe, its my turn "again".

Get with it American. Hilliary is the next President of the U.S.

I agree with Daniel above. Obama's speech writer deserves the credit for where Obama is today. His lack of ability to answer tough questions directly in debate is becoming more and more obvious. Sorry to say he just isn't ready yet. On the other hand, you can bet the Clinton's are smart and quick. Isn't that exactly what we deparately need right now? The Republicans are all positioned to follow in Bush's footsteps. That is why Hillary rightly continues to pound on Bush policies. When all is said and done, we need a Democrat elected President. In my opinion it will all be about "the economy, stupid!" I'm betting that the Hillary Clinton has the inside track of fixing our economy (again).

At this point I think that you are going to believe who did well in the de bate is the candidate that you support. I think we can express our opinions in a civil matter. The name calling is inappropriate. Most Americans just tune it out ;but for someone from a different country to read it; it reflects badly on Americans. Lately, it has been difficult for Obama supporters because everything has been positive about him. No one was bringing up issues that has been covered by the Chicago newspapers or holding him accountable for his voting record. His answer to his involvement with Rizko is very vague than the allegations raised by the Chicago Tribune. I think that it will now all come out.

Not only does he have all those present votes as a Ilinois State Senator, he has missed twice as many votes as a Senator in the past three years than Hillary Clinton missed in seven years.

When you are a member of Congress, it is your job to pass or not pass legislation. I am looking for a candidate that is willing to do the unglamorous job than someone who just wants to inspire others.

It is also very transparent that the Republican bloggers who say that they will vote for Obama and not Hillary in reality will vote for a Republican candidate. We democrats know your game.

"Let's be one country and work together."-huh? What's that? Nobody listened because we're all too busy hearing and seeing what we each want 2. Let's be real about Washington, folks… -and I'm "African-American"

CLINTON '08!

I have a son in the US Navy and a daughter in the Nat'l Guard. There is still a WAR going on people! Which candidate recognized the Bush Administration lead us into a false conflict at the beginning. Who can respect Hillary's judgment when it was so sorely lacking with her vote for the War? I was a Hillary supporter. She's a liar.

Your comment is awaiting moderation, other comments are posted after mine???
After watching the debates and reading these blogs. I'm convinced. Nothing can be said to change some peoples positions. The issues were overshadowed by personal differences. Obama was first on the attack. My answer to that is something I've taught my children, "do not write a check your ass can't cash". which is what Obama did. Edwards just looked dumbfounded, I like Edwards, however, he tends to get too personal. He likes to bring one particular persons name into each issue. Hillary is ready for anything that is thrown at her, Obama seem to hum-ha. His present vote was not answered. How will he drive down cost for health care? Is he going to ask them pretty please, lower your rates. I'm a really nice guy and would really like to help people. Life has shown me nice guys finish last. How much will he be willing to concede to unite. Politics is a give and take, an experienced politician takes more then they give. Will he pocket veto rather veto? He could always say he misplaced the bill. Maybe he jumped into this race now because he knows he won't get re-elected to another term as Senator in Illinois. Tried and true, that is Hillary Clinton. Stand up and be counted, that is Hillary Clinton. Take it on the chin, that is Hillary Clinton. Obama sidesteps or diverts the topic at hand and preaches to us. Join hands and love one another is a feel good notion. I wish we could do that but, I live in the real world

For over a year the media has tried to convince us that Hillary and Obama are the front runners for the democratic nomination. Ever ask yourself why the media zeroed in on these two? If it is because they are the front runners in raising funds, I have to ask myself where did those funds come from. Then I have to ask myself, what and how much is it going to cost us as a nation for these contributions to be repaid in the form of political favors. Who wins? Surely not the American people. Have you ever noticed how Hillary and Obama refer to the Presidency as "When I"… yet John Edwards constantly talks "we". HIllary: "I will, I will, I will". Obama: " I will, I will, I will. John Edwards: "we will, we will, we will". We need a leader who will unite this country, not divide it further than it is now. Whether or not we as a nation are ready for a woman president or a black president is not an issue. Now is not the time to experiment. After having gone backwards for 7 years, we as a nation need to move forward and we need a leader who can do just that, nationally and internationally.The Presidency is not a side show. As voters, we need to look at the whole picture. John Edwards has integrity. I would value and trust his selections for Cabinet positions. We as a people can put John Edwards the front runner with or without the media. Another debate is scheduled for Jan 31. Catch it if you can. It's much more than what is shown as news the next morning.

Hillary just doesn't get it. She keeps spouting 35 years experience fighting for health care, an end to poverty and every other social ill. She and Bill had the power and were in the White House for 8 years and these problems still exist. They spend too much time defending themselves from the Republicans.

She'll never bring the troops home. She needs to win at everything. Xena the Princess Warrior is what we'll get. As much as I'd love to see a woman as president, Hillary's the wrong woman.

Obama's main strength is his willingness to work as a United country. There are too many Democrats and too many Republicans and not enought Americans in this country. With Obama we have a chance to truly unite once again.

For those posters who continually point to Obama's 8 years of experience in the Illinois Legislature, it should be noted that this position was a part-time one. At the same time he was practicing law privately. To put that in context and to be fair, a part time position in a state legislature cannot and should not be equated to full time experience in the U.S. Senate. Not weighing in on the relevance of that experience, just that people are comparing two different things.

For those posters who continually point to Obama's 8 years of experience in the Illinois Legislature, it should be noted that this position was a part-time one. At the same time he was practicing law privately. To put that in context and to be fair, a part time position in a state legislature cannot and should not be equated to full time experience in the U.S. Senate. Not weighing in on the relevance of that experience, just that people are comparing two different things.

Can't you folks see that Obama is baiting the Clintons and standing there like the innocent one on the block?
I am always suspicious of one who keeps letting you know of his virtues. (He and his surrogates)
Actually it was Obama last night who started with the low blows ie the Walmart comment. Hillary was not about to take the words and energy of his comment without reacting.
Again, we need a German Shepard in the White house not a Golden Retriever.
No doubt she knows her stuff and can stand up for herself and has a very supportive husband who just happens to have more power than E Edwards and Mrs Obama.
The way our country is going we need that couple in our White House!!!!!!!!!

I am commenting on Wolf Blitzer. Where did you learn how to be a moderator? You allowed Hillary to go on and on and on and get off topic, never allowed Edwards a chance to get in there.

What a circus. You let things get out of control and clearly showed preferential treatment to Hillary.

It's funny how everyone says that Hillary can't work with Republicans. It's funny because whenever you ask a Republican senator about Hillary Clinton, they say she was surprisingly easy to work with.

I consider myself a moderate democrat; have never considered voting for a republican and enjoy seeing women move into to positions normally held by males. I dislike Hillary Clinton with a passion. I find her derisive, inable to build a coalition with others who don't see things her way. As I supporter of Bill Clinton I have found his behavior in the last few weeks to be unpresidential and disgusting. I will vote for Barack Obama. If by chance Hillary becomes the democrat nominee I will be voting republican for I would rather see a republican in office than Hillary Clinton.

I wonder when Senators Clinton, Edwards and Obama will realize that President Bush is NOT running for re-election. From the sound of their rhetoric, you would think that all three of the Democratic candidates are running against the president. No matter how much they might WISH to paint the eventual Republican nominee as "George W. Bush with a new name and face," that's simply not going to work with the electorate. Hatred of the president does not drive American politics, thank God.

I was an ardent supporter of Bill Clinton’s politics in spite of the things he did in his office later in the Presidency. But in this campaign from the beginning, I saw a side in both Bill and Hillary– that was so unbecoming of them…subtle attacks on Obama and getting ‘insecure’ with Obama’s progress in the campaign. Obama from the beginning did not attack the Clintons at all in the campaign until tonight, in fact he was the one to say lately that “we should not hurt the Democratic campaign by fighting each other” or to this effect. In this debate, Hillary was ready to bring out attacks and engage Obama in a personal level fight..most likely knowing that it will hurt Obama’s persona in the debate. Obama is a visionary, a positive change, a hope to what has been so far in the country and the world. It would have been great to the country if the Clintons and Obama can work united. Looks like the Clintons are like ‘Old Politics All Over Again’…tooooo partisan.

As an independent, the Hillary tactics was a reason why she shouldn't and does not deserve to be president of this great nation. Her immaturity has taken a nose dive with the cunny tactics. I must say, she learnt a great deal from Bill Clinton.

It is fair game to question Barck Obama's record but I do think that the bickering back and forth was some sort of side show. I know most people would look at this and put the blame on both of them, but frankly, we ought to see through Hillary's tactic, who knows that Barack would have no choice than to respond to the mudslinging. In the world of 24 hr cable news, thats what politics has become.

Thank goodness one of the candidates has the decorum that SHOULD be required of any person elected to any public office. John Edwards once again proved himself as the candidate who can cut through the chatter and get to the heart of the matter. Thank you, Sen. Edwards, for conducting yourself as a true southern gentleman. You have a firm grip on the issues and a definite plan to address those issues. It's time to move on from the personal issues that appear to be first and foremost with your "colleagues" and get to the issues that affect the people of this country each and every day.

It was so nice to see that the Clintons have not changed….we have had way to many years of Clinton's and Bush's in Washington, lets end the cycle!
If Hillary is the Dem nominee, then the Repubicans will win the White House – there is no way that Hillary can win over independants or moderate Repubicans to win the overall election. Go Obama!!

Jackson:

Obama has already worked with Republicans. For example, he worked with them to get the most historic bill regarding financial accountability passed last year.

Hillary meanwhile, only talks about "withstanding the Republican attacks". I think her attitude will cost the Dems BADLY in a general election.

If you really want to know the undistorted facts of ones candidacy go to the Internet , there is a world of knowledge available ( voting histories, quotes, etc.) Obama had to may ohs, ahs and you know, in his responses. Edwards and Clinton were great they provided the what and how on issues address by the American people. Mr. Obama has a plan but ,a lot of them are taken from the play book of others. He probably will take South Carolina because of the race and sympathy cards his campaign has played so underhandedly . I doubt though if he will winner on Super Tuesday. If and I say if he is nominated he will not survive the republican nominee . Mr. Obama , if you think the Clintons are hard on you , you ain't seen nothing yet. Any dirt in your or your families closets get out now.

Hillary sealed her fate last night. She will not be the DNC candidate for president. Her primary supporters are wasting their votes.

Why dont you people GET whats going on

This is POLITICS.

Lets get something clear real fast.

Senator Obama is running officially as a 'change candidate' because he doesnt have much experience to run on another angle. ALL young candidates choose this angle. They appeal to young voters. They appeal to disgruntled folks who desperately want something new .

There is nothing WRONG with this.

But the OTHER candidates. The ones running on experience, will find it impossible to defeat ANY candidate if they can just run around saying merry speeches about change and hope like they have a MAGIC WAND.

A pied piper if you will. Every candidate knows, including Obama, that there is NO SUCH thing as Santa Claus . No pied piper can come along and save us.

So then when the other candidates decide to 'bring him down to earth' as a way of showing NOBODY can just 'change washington' of course hes going to get MAD if it starts working.

People come on here and call them 'mean' ? How dare you actually want our beloved Obama to PROVE his rhetoric!!! You are MEAN!!!

Obama should be allowed just to say whatever hope message he wants to get as many votes as he can. Right?

So. Last night. You saw 2 candidates, Clinton and Edwards…….STICK IT to Senator Obama on issues. (again)

Pundits know this. They all fully disclose that it was about the ISSUES.

Obama clearly seems uncomfortable when people challenge him on what he says.

This is because he is adopting a very risky strategy of HOPE AND HYPE , which very few outside of Jesus Christ can actually back up.

So he wants to AVOID confrontation at all cost.

Both Clinton and Edwards know that Obama can be bashed when directly confronted. This is why the last 2 debates Obama has been caught in a cross fire.

Obama COMPLAINING about all this is VERY surprsing to me. It shows his inexperience.

Shrillary does not inspire confidence… enough with the Clinton/Bush Coalition…. can anyone really vote for her? BUSH CLINTON CLINTON BUSH BUSH CLINTON CLINTON??? then what next? another BUSH?

Susan,

Get a life! Get real!

OBAMA (O…MAMA) has lost it. He only talks and last debate revealed how much he knows about his own plan and others.

He will good as Ambassador to Kenya where there are problems. He can do good for the country.

Schneider, you have your own agenda, but your so-called analysis is beyond meaningless.

You say Bill Clinton was the most partisan president? you mean the repubs hate his guts. that doesn't make him partisan. that means he took repub's ideas and agenda and ran with them so far and well that there is no meaningful distinction in terms of fiscal, financial, and foreign policy directions between GOP and Dems. The repubs hate his guts because he outdid reagan abd his followers. the dems were silent during the Bush administration because they didn't have any alternative ideas to offer.

yes, i know you guys have long drifted away from any substantive discussions of issues, in the name of (phony balony) political analysis, that "content" really has no place in your (so-called) reporting.

Why doesn't Obama be man enough to face Bill C. and make his nasty remarks.

Obama's answers are too vague. I want someone in the White House that can take over and undo the mess Bush has gotten us in and that is Sen Clinton. She's a smart woman…problem is …men feel insecure because of her knowledge. She isn't only fighting against the Republicans but also the "good ol' boys" club. I'll vote for Sen Clinton because I feel she is the best candidate running for President..

Pretend it is the day after President H. Clinton, Obama , Edwards ended the Iraq and Afganistan wars. and all the U.S. military have returned home: Questions: 10 Is there a comprehensive GI Bill? Does it provide for veterans pay? Jobs for vets? rehabilitation in Veteran Administration hospitals? Treatment for post-traumatic distress syndrome? Where do we get the trained healthcare personnel to staff the VA hospitals? Will there be a GI bill that will provide GI loans?

2) Credit usary and mortagage forfiture. What about the people already in forfiture? Is there any help for them?

3) Dead American miltary. Are their bodies shipped home in American made body bags, coffins? Are the American flags that are draped over their coffins made in America? If not, in what foreign country are these items made? Have these contractors made contributions to the presidential candidates? If so, to whom and in what amounts?

Obama just rambles on and on !!! He is so arrogant !

If the Democrats want to win the white house, they had better run John Edwards. I think he is the only one with enough guts to go up against the big corps. And that is where the most of our problems began,aside from George Bush

Keep your cool Hillary. You look bitter and come across fake. Which is what you are.

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

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

Hillary "won" 3 of 4 states, yet Obama still has more delegates. And so far, outy of the Clinton camp, we've had allegations of voting machine fraud, allegations of voter intimidation, and a lawsuit over previously agreed to caucus sites. And this is only the primary. Hillary is so divisive. She cannot win a general election.

I beleive Edwards could very well have been the winner of the debate, problem is, as soon as he gets a lead, he goes into a sob story pulled from the local papers. I think he looses all credibility when he does that. Not because those stories shouldn't be heard, but because it's become a staple in his speeches…

I wish he's put those things aside. He has lots of good ideas but is sticking to rehearsed script. He should go to an Improve class or something.

As for Hillary, I respect her, mostly because as CNN reported yesterday her daughter attended a black church. So she won my vote. (sarcasm). I really didn't like her confrontational approach. It kept making me think of an ex-girlfriend of mine that was always yelling and in my face, and as a gentleman you can't do anything about it. Well I dumped her, she stalked me for a year, don't know where she is now… still stalking? maybe.
Clinton = crazy stalking ex-girlfriend (but with Walmart discounts).

As for Barack, he was defenetly the target, but it may be because he was placed in the middle. I think he did pretty good at explaining some things that were dogging him (present vote) and not so good explaining other things (30%). But I never took his stuttering as a negative, if anything it made him seem more real. I don't think it was necessary for him to bring up that he didn't know who he was running against, Hill/Bill, but it may have been enough to bring it in the open and cool down the ex-president… (who's really undoing al the hard work he's done since being president by acting like a child.)

A couple more things that I noticed:
1. little upset as well about CNN/Wolf asking viewers for their questions and not using them…

2. Sponsored by American Clean Coal… hmmm, that explains why no environmental questions…

3. Looked to me as thought it was a bit too un-organized as far as questioning format. Some structure would have been better.

Go Obama!

During the Myrtle Beach debate Obama, open up the doors to set himself up for a nother lost, by attaching the Clinton's. He dose not have enought plates on the table to attach Bill Clinton. He alway get himself in hot water and expect for the system to protect him. This is why he will lose S.C. Bill Clinton. will smoke him this week.

If Hillary Clinton gets the democratic nomination I pray Mike Bloomberg runs. There is NO way I will vote for her. I'm a 56 year old woman who did vote twice for Bill Clinton, but that was then. I'm sick of the Clintons and Bushes. We need new blood in the White House(like Obama). The Clintons have sunk to a new low in my opinion. It's obvious they feel very threatened by Obama, as well they should. Obama is running against both of the Clintons. Who is Hillary without Bill? She has Bill do all her dirty work, they are sickening! The democrats are stupid if they have Hillary as their nominee. Nothing will unite the republicans like Hillary Clinton. The Clintons are the past, lets move toward the future, not with the Clintons.

By the way I am an Independent and proud of it. I support Obama.

It appears that Wolf Blitzer lost control of the (so-called) debate, allowing Clinton to dominate the proceedings. She was allowed to overshout the others numerous times, thus being given an unfair advantage by not allowing the others equal time. She persisted in wresting control of the proceedings even though all had been informed of the debate rules. There needs to be stricter control over runaway shriekers in the future. Stick to the rules, candidates. Civility counts!

CENSORSHIP: Glad to know I'm not being singled out and there are others' comments "awaiting moderation with mine." What's with this? I'll try one more time….but if CNN prefers to post other commenters views not once but several times and dismiss others for no known reason – I'll be spending my time elsewhere and tuning in ABC and MSNBC on Cable.

On the debate at Myrtle Beach – I don't know how anyone could perceive Obama or Edwards as doing well –

Although I'm not a Hillary Fan – She was The Only One in the debate who clearly answered a question giving information and detailing her plan. She was the only one exuding a Presidential Persona. And It's clear she is in the lead as all Obama and Edwards did throughout the debate was take Jabs and Pot Shots at her.

Obama's whining about Pres. Clinton's false accusations, and his sniffling not once but twice on the old MLK issue was more than petty and unpresidential. And it's more than amazing that the man who can speak with such oration at a podium when he has the script in front of him is so tongue tied in a debate. His Ahhhhh's, Awwwww's, Stutterings and forgetting what point he was actually trying to make did nothing to impress me! He clearly has no ideas of his own or he wouldn't be continually quoting, MLK, JFK, and Regan! Give us some of your ideas for a change Mr. Obama if your so attuned to CHANGE. Change isn't found in the Past History Books of previous Presidents ….

Edwards came off as a Man on a Misson, making sure America knew his strengths. Sadly his manner in getting them across was so weak and jeuvenile he sounded like a teen pumping himself up for the Prom King! And who could possibly concentrate on anything he says with those facial gestures of his, and his eye batting!!! Add that to the less than sincere, the repetition and the more than scripted aura he gives off and it becomes more than nauseating.

Meanwhile in another locale, Pres. Clinton had crowds on the edge of their seats as he detailed for them Hillary's Health Care Plan. Her Plan on Iraq and to bring the troops home. Her Plan for the Economy. Her Education Plan, Her Plan on Student Loans for University Students and as well, a Job Plan for University Students. Her Economic Plan to provide relef for the Elderly, the middle class, single Moms. Her Plan on increasing jobs for Americans thus boosting the economy. During Clintons term of eight years jobs increased 70%. During Bush's seven years they increased 30%. Her Plan to turn around the Morgage Fiasco and give home owners five years at their present interest rates to keep them in their new homes which saves more tax dollars than closing on them. Now that was impressive! And the crowds were so interested Bill stayed on after to answer questions. Let's hear Obama, Edwards, Romney, Ron Paul top that one!

obama is trying unite us all……..he doens't want to be divided….he wants to work with one another!!!and he made a perfect stament lastnight that clinton has the same politics as in washington and he is right she does. and she does take money from lobbiest and ALOT of it…..obama and edwards have not at all…..she has obligations now with them and while obama and edwards who have only taken money from people who have donated …..!!! who are they going to pay more attention to us who have donated the money for!!! YES!!!!!

Why do Hillary supporters always type in CAPS LOCK??? It's annoying. And won't be read.

I beleive Edwards could very well have been the winner of the debate, problem is, as soon as he gets a lead, he goes into a sob story pulled from the local papers. I think he looses all credibility when he does that. Not because those stories shouldn't be heard, but because it's become a staple in his speeches…

I wish he's put those things aside. He has lots of good ideas but is sticking to rehearsed script. He should go to an Improve class or something.

As for Hillary, I respect her, mostly because as CNN reported yesterday her daughter attended a black church. So she won my vote. (sarcasm). I really didn't like her confrontational approach. It kept making me think of an ex-girlfriend of mine that was always yelling and in my face, and as a gentleman you can't do anything about it. Well I dumped her, she stalked me for a year, don't know where she is now… still stalking? maybe.
Clinton = crazy stalking ex-girlfriend (but with Walmart discounts).

As for Barack, he was defenetly the target, but it may be because he was placed in the middle. I think he did pretty good at explaining some things that were dogging him (present vote) and not so good explaining other things (30%). But I never took his stuttering as a negative, if anything it made him seem more real. I don't think it was necessary for him to bring up that he didn't know who he was running against, Hill/Bill, but it may have been enough to bring it in the open and cool down the ex-president… (who's really undoing al the hard work he's done since being president by acting like a child.)

A couple more things that I noticed:
1. little upset as well about CNN/Wolf asking viewers for their questions and not using them…

2. Sponsored by American Clean Coal… hmmm, that explains why no environmental questions…

3. Looked to me as thought it was a bit too un-organized as far as questioning format. Some structure would have been better.

Wonderful to see John Edwards get some press and more wonderful if he got the nomination. Anyone who says Edwards is just talking the same-old-line hasn't done his homework.

John Edwards is the only one of the top candidates who has clearly laid ALL his cards on the table and hasn't evaded issues or lathered them in sappy rhetoric. His positions and plans for all the major issues are right-out-there on his website in an 80-page book, "The Plan To Build One America," where he covers off on everything from the Iraq war, to the economy, and restoration of the Constitution. If you want to know what he thinks about torture, or signing statements, or the environment, or just about anything else, READ IT.

Every American voter has the obligation to research the candidates' positions and the Edwards Plan is positively inspirational. Compare it to the spotty and hollow renderings of his opponents and you've got to be converted. This guy is tough, smart, and decent–a true visionary who won't divide America nor surrender to corporate, political, religious, or other special interest groups.

Keep running, John! We need you.

I am very disappointed in CNN's political coverage. I have always trusted CNN in the past for unbiased reporting and that has always been my first stop every morning. I have my TV set to go to that channel when it is turned on.

Now, I watch with anger the bias shown on the political coverage. It is obvious who CNN is backing based on the video shots they show during debates, excerpts taken from candidates speeches, and evaluators after debates.

Shame on you CNN. I expect this from Fox News. Not you. Now I have to switch between MSNBC, FOx, and CNN to get full reporting and try to eliminate bias shown by all.

I am a Republican and I can tell you if it was between McCain and Clinton, I would vote for McCain. Both are "OLD SCHOOL" D.C. Beltway Politicians. Really no difference but at least McCain is not as divisive as Hillary. Also, being a former Soldier, I know what the Bill Clinton military was like – cut to the bone. I'd take my chance with McCain.

If it was between Obama and McCain, I would vote for Obama. He is a fresh breath of air. Plus he understands why Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid can't get anything through Congress. You can't beat up Republicans and expect them to vote with you. Obama understands why Reagan was successful with a Democratic Controlled Congress – he worked with them and did not demonize them.

But I am consoled that if Hillary wins – after 4 years of her the Republicans will be in power for at least another 12 years.

Susan, you're spot on regarding Obama v. Clinton. It seems like a contest between a gentleman and Faulkner's Snopes family. Although the Clintons are rich and fat, they possess all the pernicious characteristics of the mendacious Faulkner family.

Obama is nothing but a baby!!! His comment's last night proved it. His comment about what Bill said was childish. It was like he was pulling her hair. He needs to GROW UP!!

The debate yesterday proved one thing. When Obama has a pre-written (by someone else), pre-rehearsed speech he can move the masses to shudders and tears. When he is on the cuff….he is very shaky and not so moving. I think that Senator Obama is a great man, a great Senator, and will eventually become a great leader. I just do not think that now is the time. He is not quite strong enough…..yet.

Oh my Lord in heaven..Hillary has become a raging animal ready to rip Obama's throat out!! Allot of low blows, not neccesary I guess she can't use her crying card everytime can she?? What a big mouth powered by the staus quo in Washington. Spurred on by Bill who I loved until this week, they just want the power..they don't care about how they get it. I guess Billy has payback to perform thanks to his former indescrections. I pray that Obama stays the course with his level headed, strong , platform..God keep you Barack.. nice guys DO finish first. As for Hillary, put a muzzle on Bill and for heaven's sake keep any babies out of her reach..she may eat the young!

Obama looked like a little kid when he was asked about his voting record. Best line was from Edward when he said to Obama " you voted present because interest was too high so instead of cap you prefer no limit". Obama looked really stupid. I felt sorry for Obama because he was just stuttering all night. How do people listen to him during his campaign. He is horrible.

I did not see Obama fight to get Kucinich included in the MSNBC debate when that network recalled their invitation. I did not see Barak sign a simple form in Michigan that would have allowed voters to write in his name that he withheld from the ballot.
I did see him dance around the issue of how he plans to pay for his plans by playing the victim.
He is a politician. and not unlike the others.

Edwards won this round. In fact, he's been a pretty strong debater throughout. this process. I've read most of the comments and it's sad that a lot of folks agree that Edwards won the debate, but stands little chance of winning the election. It's really too bad that we keep making the same mistakes over and over again. We keep voting with our heads rather than our hearts. We (meaning the Democrats) keep voting for who we think will beat the Republican candidate instead of who we really believe is the best candidate for the job–the one who is most progressive, with the best and most complete ideas and programs. Ideas and ideals are great, but we need more than that from our next president. If folks honestly voted with their hearts rather than their heads, then I believe John Edwards would be the next president. Obama talks about change and hope; Hillary talks about having the experience needed to bring change about; but their bickering spoke volumes to me that it was POLITICS AS USUAL. No change. No hope. And only limited, bad experiences spoken of… until John Edwards spoke up. The tenor of the discussion CHANGED. That gave me real HOPE. And Edwards' message came through loud and clear. I just hope it was in time for folks to give him a real chance.

THREE different strategies!!!

Don't keep leaving out Edwards–he is still viable.

There is a large segment of Democrats who will not vote for Hillary or Obama because of their flip-flops, old school ties, and perceived inability to whip the GOP in a genearl election–like Kerry.

Those people will vote Republican rather than put anyone in office that remotely resembles Bill Clinton or George Bush.

Those folks–a multitude of independents…and a large faction of unhappy moderate GOP will vote for John Edwards–the working people will turn out for the next election–and they will vote for John Edwards–or the most fiscally conservative moderate running for the GOP ticket.

His strategy is to be the Un-Clinton and Un-Obama, and the Un-Bush—he is the genuine reform candidate–and both parties have hijacked his agenda–but the record is clear going all they way back to 2004. If he had been on the top of the ticket instead of Kerry–we'd probably have a Democratic President right now.

I have read every post in regard to the debate. WOW, I am amazed. Obama and Hillary have convinced the majority of the viewers that this is a sporting event. Let's also point out the media has gotten just what they wanted as they have made it seem that the democrates only have two canidates. My gosh, folks, look between the lines, the media got what it wanted by making you believe there are only two canidates. We have had a Clinton in office. Does anyone remember an egotisigal Bill blocking the LA runway while he got a haircut on the plane. Obama tallks about what he has been against, well, why on God's green earth was he not pulling a filabuster on the floor making huge noise. My guess is while he talks a good game he didn't stand and account for himself when it was time. Let me say one other thing. Maybe it's time to put Baby Hillary and Baby Obama in the time out corner until they quit kicking sand in each others face. I read posts where Edwards has been saying the same thing for eight years. Let me say this, maybe, just maybe, that is what this country needs. Could anyone imagine what might happen in the House and the Senate if the lobbist were sent home. Our representatives might have to listen to what we are saying rather than what the under the table money is saying. People, if you want change you have to go out on a limb. DON"T get wraped up by what is going on in the romper room sand box.

*****
James January 21, 2008 11:11 pm ET

My comment isn't about either Clinton or Obama. It's about Bill Schneider.
*****
*****
Clinton's strategy of going for the partisans in the primaries has shown itself to be a winning one time and again. But this election season has been anything but normal — and it's possible that after eight years with one of the most partisan presidents in history, even partisan Democrats want a consensus builder.
*****

I agree with you James. For some unknown reason, this election season, CNN is showing marked bias in favoring a candidate or position that is opposed to Sen. Clinton. CNN has been always respected as neutral and acute news carrier. However this election year CNN has adopted a mentoring role, which is kind of disturbing.

Sen. Clinton is following partisan path. That is her strategy. Bill Schneider is putting his own thought about bi-partisanism as being suggested by democrats.
In recent US history former Pres. Bill Clinton is the only one who went across part lines to deliver the results most of his presidential period.

After living through the most partisan presidency in recent US history, if there is any lesson to be learned, it is that if republicans get hold of white office this time, US can expect another 8 years of deep republican partisan president, because on the other side of the aisle it is either McCain or Romney. No affront meant to either McCain or Romney, but these candidates are staking their republican candidatures rooted in steep ideology in republicans.

Those sick folks who say the Clintons start the confrontations must be blind and deaf. Who started the attacks tonight? Was it not Obama who alluded to Hillary sitting on the Board of Walmart when the question he was asked bore no reference to that? He just brought it out of the blues. He later whined when she took him on his voting records including the 130 "Present" votes in the Illinois Senate.
Then can't this man be honest for once? How did Bill distort his records? Bill never distorted his records which are parse at best. He spoke against the war, said he was not opposed to all wars, then before the Dem's convention in 2004, spoke for the war and it's conduct, then got into the senate and unlike Dennis Kucinich voted to fund the war all the times, voted against resolution calling for the troops to come home, then after he announced his candidacy, started voting against funding and in favour of the troops coming home. Which one is the distortion Sir? I'd like to know before I seal my vote for Hillary Clinton!

Senator Clinton was just pandering. She keeps using MLK reference like she knows the struggle. I was waiting for her to use her southern twang. This is one plastic woman who can not answer a straight question. I think Obama used words to the effect towards her that she goes after the “uneducated voters”. He right but what the Clinton war machine did not factor in was that 8 years when Mr. Clinton left office not everybody has computers and internet and was only force to watch CNN. Today is different and the Clinton’s can’t combat that so they smear the other candidates. Obama look good and said nothing at the end and Edwards will soon be out of money. No Winners not even Wolfe

OK Lets jump into this experience crap. Obama's time in the STATE senate is not equal to the other two candidates national level experience. That's like saying I ran a Family Dollar PARTTIME and therefore am as qualified someone who has run a Walmart because they only ran the Walmart for 6 years and I ran that Family Dollar PARTTIME for 8 years so hire me!NOT!

You cluckheads at CNN saw fit to exclude Dennis Kucinich, a genuine presidential candidate, from your "debate". Had he been invited, it may have not degenerated into bickering between the "front runners" and Kucinich may have stimulated some real debate about the issues many Americans really care about. But as usual, you, the pseudo -press choose our candidates for us, don't you?

I watched the debate and found Hillary Clinton shrill, caustic, whiny, and downright annoying. She did not come across as someone who deserves the highest office in the land. This woman stood by while her husband had numerous affairs with other women and kept silent believing that he would make good by giving her the Presidency. It doesn't work that way. He may owe her an apology but the American people owe her nothing. There are many, many superb female executives and legislators all across our country that can do a much better job than Hillary Clinton and hopefully they will one day run for president so the American people can see that Hillary Clinton is, fortunately, not representative of women seeking the office.

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

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

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

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

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

If you were really paying attention to the debate, you would have noticed that while John and Hilary were engaged and attentive while other people were speaking, Obama sat with his arms folded and gazed off into space as if these people weren't worth his time. This would not be an appropriate affect for the President in conferences with world leaders. I have heard lots of speeches of "change, change", but not really any ideas of how it will be done. I was impressed with John Edwards, I think he will make a great VP. As far as Bill being on the attack, if John Kerry had showed a little backbone and done the same, or if Al Gore had not listened to his advisors and let Bill campaign for him, the horrendous mess of King George wouldn't have happened. Maybe people should think of that!

My last comment was not potsed WOW! why not.
The debate was not fair without Dennis Kuchinich there what a shame on the media Shame! Shame! Shame! Censorship alive and well in America.

HILLARY WILL WIN THIS 4 SURE NOT NOTICE HOW PRESIDENTIAL SHE LOOKED AN MADE OBAMA SEEM LIKE A YOUNG SHCOOL BOY SMOKING WEED AN DOING COCAINE OOOOOOOOOOO FACT OR FICTION IF U ADMIT TO IT I THOUGHT THAT MAKES IT TRUE UUUUMMMMMMMM GO FIGURE JUST SAY NO TO DRUGS OBAMA…………………!!!!!!!!AN ALL YOU OTHER OBAMA LOVERS
SAY NO JUST SAY NO TO DURGS.

SUPPER TUESDAY HERE WE COME HISPANIC POWER YES THIS IS WHAT WE BEEN WAITING 4 UNGREATFUL BLACK FOLKS………

I was a democrat for yrs. Lately (Clinton) changed me to vote mostly republican. If Obama or Edwards wins. I will vote for them because they seem to have a new direction. Clinton's have lost my trust.

Edward is the winner of the debate. Hilary and Obama were too busy settling personal score. I use to support Hilary but that`s gone like the wind.
Good Job Edward ! Obama don`t pull your eyes of the ball!! Concentrate and don`t be distracted Bill has nothing to loose, keep the message going !!!

Yup, that's what they are. Breaking it down, it's a matter of learning to walk before breaking into a sprint, because every single rudiment (without exception) you will encounter comes from the single stroke (RRRR LLLL or RLRLRLRL LRLRLRLR) or double stroke (RRLLRRLL LLRRLLRR) roll. The masters of drumming will typically gauge player potential based on how cleanly they execute their rolls for this reason. That is not to say there's not a place for the show-off drummers, because we know full well there is, and show-offs are entertaining. I'm talking rudimental skill only, which is critical for Scottish-style playing.

I tend to prefer Skype because I hate "live-typing." I'm not a chatty-Cathy, either, but it does take less time and effort to say what needs to be said and move on. Email isn't much better, but at least there is time too collect thoughts before hitting send, and you're not trying to interpret

To Kris, they are doing it to me also! I agree with you completely! I often provide websites and sources of information where you can find the real truth, and these are the comments that get moderated, or posted 48 hours later, long after the article is dead!

Hillary showed how she would DEFINATELY be the better leader right now….. Obama is great but he needs some time … I think he would be wise to spend his time learning as her VP for the next 8 years … Then run after her time as PRESIDENT is over , he would be PERFECT … After he spent time learning as her VP ….

HILLARY / BARACK

Obama will never win the general election, if he should happen to win the DEM nomination. Without his prewritten speech, he is clueless on the issues. You could see how nervous he was when questioned on his record. Other than preaching the words hope, unity, change, he brings nothing else to the table… just an empty suit.

Once again, Hillary owned the stage!

I'M A CLINTON SUPPPORTER, BUT I THINK JOHN EDWARDS WON THE DEBATE.OBARMA AND SENATOR CLINTON SHOULD STOP THE BICKEING I AM TIRED OF THE MUD SLINGING.
JENNIE

Here is I feel about what is going on.

1. I still cannot beleive that people are still voting for Clinton. No matter what you say, this WILL be his third term, if she wins.

2. I think Obama is the person for the job. Why, because I can say this, if HRC wins the DEM nomination, I am sitting this one out. ( trust me, I am not alone if this happens) The GOP has no one I am willing to look at, that would be like putting GWB back in office again, so the GOP, to me has no one, and I WILL not vote her in.

3. I ask myself this question, of the two, Clinton or OBAMA, who is going to washington for ME, not for history's sake. My anwser is always the same, Obama has my best intrests at heart. I think he will do more for me than Hillary will.

4. I don't care about his skin color or his middle name…….I am young and race does not matter to me, and it never has.

5. Plus, the way it see it, how could he be ANY worse then the duffus we got right now? Really, let's give him a chance, and if he totally screws the pouch, then in fours years it will be another moron.

6. Point is for most of my adult life, no lone has ever touched me like Obama has in his speeches. YES, I am a dreamer, I want better things for my country, real change, Clinton represents the SAME OLD WASHINGTON THAT DOES NOTHING. The only thing to ever come from washington is how much more to I have to pay this Goverement.

Thanks for reading my hummble opion!

moderating is parts of media politics….
Many of my comments are delayed or deleted and I'm not sure because most of the other comments are severely more inappropriate than mine were.
It's shameful but cinsidering that Senator Obama is the Media Darling right now…you won't get "comment play" and if you are a Clinton or Edwards supporter…then shame on you…hehehe
Media Politics At I'ts Best!!!!

Obama lost the nomination at the debate last night. His behaviour was offensive and inappropriate. And I would agree that John Edwards came out of the debate looking better than he usually does. But the moment of the debate for me, was when Obama tried to attack her for being on the board of Wal-Mart as a young lawyer, and then Hillary POUNDED him by saying that she's been fighting the good fight ever since he was a young lawyer representing SLUM LORDS in the inner city of Chicago!! BAM! Hillary knee capped him! And Obama couldn't even deny it! CLASSIC.

Go Hillary!

Look folks, we've had this President for 7 years now who went into office with all sorts of promises about what he was going to do and what extreme, partisan changes he was going to make… Then came September 11th and the loss of Republican control of Congress, and almost NOTHING Bush wanted to do in 2000 has gotten done- because he didn't plan for shocking change OR for the Constitutional necessity of compromise.

Don'tcha think that, after this painful object lesson, an intelligent candidate should take into account the fact that we might not be in the same position as we are now by the time they take office? Also, assuming that person is more intelligent than your average grapefruit, don'tcha think they should take into account the fact that our government is set up so that they MUST get a majority to agree with them in order to make any changes? Furthermore, again assuming the candidate in question is smarter than an inanimate object and is taking these facts into account, don'tcha think the most REALISTIC, HONEST, and PRACTICAL course of action should be to campaign on a platform which seeks to establish BROAD goals that are easily adaptable to changing circumstances and priorities and that are universally appealing- goals which can be accomplished one small step at a time?

THAT is the campaign Obama is running! His ability to accept and to plan for a future constantly in flux is not a drawback, but an ASSET! It means that, unlike the current occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Obama will get the facts before he takes action, and he won't distort them to fit his own views or to serve his own purposes. It means Obama is committed not just to bringing about change, but to accepting unplanned change and making the best of whatever hands we're dealt. It means that, when faced with a problem, he will seek out solutions that all of us can live with. It means Obama values old-fashioned GOOD MANNERS, HONESTY, and COMMON SENSE.

Haven't we had enough of a President that blatantly refuses to acknowledge facts and plan for an ever-changing future? Haven't we had enough of a President who refuses to consider differing points of view? Haven't we had enough of the sort of blind arrogance and belligerence that led to September 11th? Haven't we learned our lesson?

If you're as tired of hate as I am, if you're as tired of empty promises as I am, if you're as tired of politics-as-usual as I am, and if you're as ready for a REAL change in Washington as I am, then your ONLY choice is Barack Obama.

Vote smart. Vote for a REAL change.

*Disclaimer: the author of this post is a 25-year-old white female from Ohio. Accusations of gender or racial biases will be laughed at.*

How can Obama say he will bring this country together when he can't even look HIllary in the eyes when talking most of the time? He doesn't get along with the two leading democrates, the Clintons? Notice how he kept touching and playing up to Edwards last night? He may be able to say he will bring unity, but he can't be patient enough to listen to the other side without interrupting. He is rude!! He couldn't wait to jump on Hillary about this or that and take it personal and racial. He needs to mature and I really don't think that he made any points last night in the diplomatic areas.

Edwards did his best yet in a debate, but he still isn't getting my vote.

Hillary knows her facts about the issues, knows how the system works and can lead this country out of the some of the messes we are in. I respect her, and welcome her plans for the future.

"Obama is running as the un-Bush"

Are you kidding me with this? Obama is George W Bush all over again (except for the fact that he is smart.) He is an empty suit running on arrogance.

I'm glad Obama got to call Hillary on her "say anything to get elected" strategy. I think John Edwards, although a fine candidate, will never be elected because his ideas about solving poverty in this country are too altruistic. Of the three candidates, it appears that only Barack Obama understands that even if you have the best, most comprehensive, brilliant ideas on how to fix America, if you can't get them passed through Congress they are worthless. We need a President who can build bipartisan consensus and get things done.

Obama Democrats have their heads in the sand about "building consensus". If the last 7 years haven't proven to them that Republicans are incapable of bipartisan governance, then they have no capacity to distinguish reality from fantasy. The Republicans in Washington have goosestepped behind the megalomaniac pretender-in-chief from day one. I don't know how they sleep at night with the shame and guilt of their betrayal of this nation and the atrocities that they have allowed to be perpetrated in our name overseas. Republicans have only one agenda, getting power and keeping it. Obama wants one thing…to be the first black President…his message of change and hope is only so much snake oil. BUT I don't think it matters who wins the nomination…the corruption-laden Republican party and the idiot Bush's legacy of warmongering, Constitution-trampling, and economy-trashing should be more than enough to swing the election to the Democrats. All the Republican voters I know are too embarrassed to talk politics at all, and I think a lot of them may just stay home in November. But Republican legislators have no shame and they'll vote the party line and their pockets every time…they've never done anything for the average hardworking American and they never will. They're arrogant, greedy, judgmental,callous, and self-serving. If Obama really believes that he can "work" Republicans, then he is truly deluded and maybe Democrats should think twice about making him their nominee. And CNN should post this, as they're posting all the crap spewed by Obama supporters and Clinton-haters

It would be nice if the media would give equal coverage to all of the contenders, but they don't.

Dennis Kucinich deserves better than he gets from the media. I am sick and tired of mainstream media manipulating the voters.

Oh, I know why the mainstream media won't give people like Kucinich or Paul the time of day. It's because they are sincerely interested in giving this country back to the people. Their politics might be different, but their hearts are in the right place.

The contenders favored by the media are out for themselves, and for the power that the Presidency gives them. It's about time Americans smartened up and voted for ideas and sincerity over personality and self-interest.

Someone said that Obama is the only candidate that wrote a book. I'm reading one of his (he has 2 that I know of and one that is a compilation from his speeches) It's a great book and he's a fantastic writer but in fairness I checked Amazon and it seems Hillary has written one called "Living History" and one called "it takes a Village" and co-authored another. I'm a die-hard Obama supporter, and as such I like to have my facts in line before attacking others.

Thank Bill Schneider for giving Edwards a positive review. It's rare and refreshing. I hope voters will reflect on what is at stake in the elections.

Finally Barack defends himself and all the Clinton supporters say he is slinging mud. If that isn't the pot calling the kettle black I don't know what is.

If Obama looked nervous it was because he is not as comfortable making negative attacks as Hillary and Edwards are.

OBAMA was the candidate who has for a long time, been trying very hard not to engage Hillary…Hill and Bill have been sniping at him for weeks…….The Clintons have been INACCURATE AND THEIR ACCUSATIONS FALSE……..The one with the common sense here is Obama…I am so proud of him for standing up to Hillary, HE TRIED NOT TO, BUT WAS FORCED INTO THE RING BUT CLINTON TACTICS……….Yeah …one might say that Edwards stayed above the fray….but come on folks this race is between The "infamous Hillary" and Barack Obama
IT IS ABOUT TIME THAT THE CLINTONS ARE CALLED ON WHAT THEY DO BEST, WHICH IS ATTACK ATTACK ATTACK AND DISTORT THE TRUTH…..BILL DID IT AND HILLARY WILL TOO!
BILL HAS OVERSTEPPED HIMSELF INTO HIS WIFES CAMPAIGN …LISTEN FOLKS, HE IS JUST WAY TO OVER INVOLVED HERE AND THAT IS A SCARY THOUGHT WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT ….WHAT WILL HE DO IF HE IS "FIRST MAN?",
HILLARY TRULY THINKS THIS GUY IS AN ASSET……….
THIS TIME I WILL SAY IT "GIVE ME A BREAK!"
OH SURE HILLARY CAN SPOUT FIGURES AND NUMBERS AS TO HOW SHE SOMEHOW PROPOSES THAT SHE IS GOING TO PULL OFF ALL THESE WONDERFUL THINGS SHE IS PROPOSING TO DO FOR THIS COUNTRY…BUT ANYONE WITH ANY SAVVY HAS TO BE ABLE TO SEE THROUGH THOSE SO CALLED PROMISES AS B….LL CRAP…
I WOULD RATHER HAVE A PRESIDENT THAT TELLS THE TRUTH AND DOES NOT PROMISE THINGS THAT SHE OR HE CANNOT DELIVER ULTIMATELY……
OBAMA IS THIS COUNTRIES BEST CHANCE TO CHANGE THE WAY WE DO BUSINESS…WHAT YOU SAW THAT NIGHT FROM HILLLARY IS THE OLD WAY ….THE OLD POLITICS STYLE…….SOMETHING THAT OBAMA DETESTS……..
WAKE UP FOLKS !!!!!!!!!!!!!
AND……………
IF YOU WOMEN OUT THERE WHAT REAL CHANGE AND REAL EQUALITY….VOTE OBAMA..THAT IS THE LAST THING THIS COUNTRY NEEDS IS A LEFTOVER BABY BOOMER ANGRY FEMINIST WOMAN (AND I MYSELF AM A MIDDLE AGED BABY BOOMER FEMINIST) WITH A "LETS HATE ALL REPUBLICANS ATTITUDE" IN THE WHITE HOUSE !!!!
AT LEAST OBAMA HAS THE ABLITIY TO GET THE JOB DONE AND FIGHT FOR EQUALITY ACROSS PARTY LINES …LETS STOP THE TIT FOR TAT BETWEEN REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS HERE…………..LETS BE ONE COUNTRY AND WORK TOGETHER……WHAT WAS THE BIG DEAL ABOUT HIS REGAN COMMENT ANYWAY….COME ON FOLKS WAKE UP…………..!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ENOUGH with the BUSH/CLINTON dynasty….. we need CHANGE… plus I'm sick to death of whiny Shrillary……

As an individual who is guided by the voice of reason and who prides himself as being a very good judge of character, I have to say that Hillar Clinton stands for deceit, deception, division and acrimony.

She is not honest and her facial expression and body language often give her away. What would this woman not do to get people's vote?

As per the candidate that I am supporting, well, it used to be Obama but after yesterday's debate, he will have to give me a cogent reason why i should not cast my vote for John Edward, who, by the way, I think is the most honest and most consistent of the three candidates. With him, what you see is what you get!!!!

Consider the uproar that would be taking place this morning if it had been Hillary or Edwards who made the "dancing" comment about Obama…instead of Obama making it about Bill.

Mr. Obama's feathers get ruffled whenever he is challenged. Good grief, to date,he has had a free pass with the media. Now, he is finally being questioned ! He considered this to be unfair and resents having to keep explaining himself. Sorry. Voters must know where he really stand on things. If he is successful in avoiding straight answers, in the primary, he will not be so lucky in a general election. Being a motivational speaker can go only so far. This is especially true after voters hear the same things over and over. Mr. Obama needs to be benched during a general election or the Democrats face loosing.

Flashback to 2004: Met Edwards in person, met Obama in person. Forward to 2008: am voting Obama. Obama was GENUINE, Edwards was NOT.

I find this years circus show hilarious. Lets see all the candidates in reality.HILLARY, a scheming,conniving ex-GOLDWATER republican who saw no future for herself in RIGHT-WING politics,teams up with BILLCLINTON , a despicable pathological liar and sex fiend to ascend the political staircase.This is not a bad team if you prefer psychopaths and live on mars. JOHN EDWARDS not a bad choice even with $400 haircut, but did you know for the millionth time he has said that his father worked in a mill,etc etc etc. EDWARDS thinks he is talking to new jury to make his case everytime he opens his mouth.EDWARDS is OK but beginning to sound like my parrot . Then we come to BARACK OBAMA, the closest person I have seen to greatness since JFK, MLK . OBAMA is a REAL true INSPIRATIONAL LEADER and THINKER who can unite this terribly divided nation. I think the choice is clear if you are even capable of actually thinking at all. OBAMA for PRESIDENT in 08

Ah, you know what's funny?

When Hillary attacks, she's a strong woman. When Obama or Edwards attack, they are being over agressive pricks.

When Hillary complains, she's right and defending herself. When Obama or Edwards complain, they're whinning.

So much for the gender equality!

I will be voting for OBAMA in November regardless of who is on the ballott!
Barack Obama showed he was up for the fight tonight!

These Clintonians have no idea about what wrong or right is because their masters have distorted the truth so much. Go ahead, support the Clintons and see what America is going to be dragged to. America needs to move on, for God's sake, what kind of retrograds want a Clinton again in the White House?!!

its a matter of truth and reconciliation for americans,
its time to unite america and the americans,
its time for america to clean its image to the outside world,
and its time for a complete changes in washington.
OBAMA can surrely do beter.

I am a 45 year old Latino woman. Until tonight, I was leaning toward Hillary Clinton, After the debate in S. C. I will never vote for Hillary. I feel that many of the over 40 white female voters will eventually abandon you at the polls. I believe that Hillary will say and do anything to get elected.. I expect that she will try to feed her lies to the people here in California, I am voting for Obama in the primary and I pray that other will not be decieved in voting for dancing and Lying bu tje Billory Clinton Clan. We feel your lies here in California and intend to vote againt you.

at the end it will be hillary's nomination

edwards vp

obama out

I want to see Ron Paul debate Denis Kucinich. That would be a real debate. Two intelligent, principled, honest, somewhat extremist candidates. Who would really debate the issues and talk about substance. It would be a debate about principles and plans and direction. Everything American politics should be about. Actually it should be a three way forum with Ralph Nader thrown in. It would restore my faith in democracy.

Thank God Edwards is being heard at least by Bill Schneider

Why won't they cover him????????

he is the man for the job?

Listen to his ideas if yu ever get the chance..that is

Hillary states that she has tne most foreign policy experience. In fact, she has stated that she has been in public service for the last 35 years. If this is so, then where was she when the genocide took place in Rwanda? Bill was president then. Where have you been Hillary when in helping to rebuild the Louisiana coast line after Katrina and Rita? Where were you Hillary when in fact the problem with immigration is not so much as the illegal immigrants who humbly work at jobs that you would never attempt, as opposed to practically all of our jobs are shipped over to China? You are nowhere to be found until surfacing for this election. Hillary's campaign is not about her winning the Presidency. It is about BILLORY as usual.

Jon,,, as republican in my late 40's ,,, who voted for Bill Clinton in his first term I can tell you this guy came out of the box ready to lead , so bigger than life, no – doubt a sure thing. He would talk and you could SEE the silver drip from his tongue,,my self and SOOOOO many others fell for his kennedy like sweet sell hook line and sinker. We ALL WANTED this guy to do well , DEMS LIBS INDEPENDENTS and secretly REPS too. Rarely this happens in politics. It seemed like every one on the planet wanted to do somthing nice for this guy. This IS the president the phrase " This is a guy I would like to sit down and have a beer with" was really meant for !! Even the out going president Bush SR was shocked and in dis belief in how he under estimated ( misunderestimated) Bill Clinton"s popularity. Then Bill took office and the rest is history how ever you or I would like to see it. In my oppinion He self destructed because he couldnt possibly live up to all the hype about himself HE and his staff , and sadly all of us created.He put himself so far out there He couldn reel himself back in, All his promises fell one by one his week stands on matters came to see the light of day and then his personal life was the end of the dynasty,,, I do not hate Bill Clinton, I feel sad for him trying to re-create his glory days and failing miserabaly trying to get back in the whitehouse thru his un- electable wife,, and sinking to the depths he has lately,, He never needed to do that in his election. Remember this when you hear Mr Obama sweet talk all of you supporters who have pledged your UN-dieing love for him

"He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it. "

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. " -MLK

I protest you Hillary I will vote against you Hillary… I stand with you Obama

They are not running to win a debate…they are running to put this country back where it was before Bush. That was Hilary's message. She was clear and to the point. She carries her thoughts and her position from beginning to end. Obama is the person at work who takes another persons idea. Sums it up in one sentence. Takes the credit and then focuses the topic away from himself into the abyss. Edwards is sincere and I liked him more than I have in the past. Obama will be another Carter…accomplish some notable worldly things. Hilary is focused, not afraid to state her position whether it be popular or not. She is what America Needs. Obama perhaps can replace Dr. Phil. Oprah does like him! Hilary keep doing what you're doing!!

Alan

I am on BOTH Hillary Clinton AND Barrack Obama's e-mail lists, and long before any of the televised exchanges between Obama and Clinton, the OBAMA campaign was the first campaign out of the gate to be publicly mud-slinging at the Clinton Campaign via the Obama mailers, clear back in November, going on and on distorting facts about where she was getting campaign fund, etc — VERY OLD SCHOOL POLITICS. I kept waiting for the Clinton mailers to address the early Obama mud-slinging, as obviously they had to have known it was going on, but Hillary Clinton's campaign never acknowledged the agressive character slams that the Obama campaign was making,

Truthfully, I was so disheartened when I began to receive the negative Obama mailers. This bummed me out beyond measure, because I had bought into the "Visionary nice guy" image that the Obama campaign had portrayed, and I was very interested in seeing what he was doing in his campaign, The truth is, he poked Hillary Clinton with a stick for months on the internet in his campaign mailers, but seems to be crying "negative campaiging foul' on national TV when Hillary pokes back. I think Barack Obama has some wonderful ideas, but he's acting like a baby and crying "abused" far too much, and he seems to be back peddling from what I read in his mailers, all after being the first one to draw "nagative campaigning" blood, so to speak.

I just don't trust the guy or his campaign after that. In my opinion, Hillary had a right to level him out — the guy seems to be two different people: rabid in e-mails, and passive in front of the camera — and at least Hillary leveled him in public, rather than hiding her negative opinion of him in her mailers to her supporters. She'll at least go on record with her disagreeing with his stances.

Edwards was also terrific, but after what I've seen with the Obama campaign, my vote goes to Hillary Clinton, or John Edwards, But Hillary is my gal — Hillary in '08.

If you want to be sure to elect a Republican, then vote for Hillary. If you want to elect a President, vote for Obama

I agree, Edwards won this debate. All of this bickering between Clinton and Obama is showing us nothing. Edwards show's me he is the best candidate because he stays on task and talks about the issues, not about 'oh you represented wal-mart, oh you helped a slumlord'. I can't believe the media ie. lack of Edwards coverage, counting him out of the race, blowing hillary's crying out of proportion, etc. AMERICA OPEN YOUR EYES AND EARS AND VOTE FOR THEIR POLICIES AND AGENDA NOT BECAUSE THEY ARE BLACK OR A WOMAN AND ITS HISTORICAL. Where has our democracy gone when two families run this country for the last 20 years!?!?!

I have considered who might be pairing up for the fall race, and I could see an Obama & Edwards ticket (or Edwards & Obama) long before I could see Hillary & Obama. There is much bad blood between them, and Hillary is mighty vindictive. And, Obama really doesn't seem to have much use for Hillary. All three of them are incredibly arrogant, dangerous, and oblivious to economic realities. They think so highly of government (and themselves) that they believe with a stroke of a pen that they can make things just the way they want them. They do not have a clue as to how the world works, and they would be absolutely disastrous for our country. These are not smart people–they are blinded by themselves. Not one of them seemed in the least presidential; not one inspired the least bit of confidence. Each tried to harness the "hate George Bush" bandwagon as if that is a policy. It was all about who can give away more and who is the best at securing defeat in Iraq. Pitiful.

They are so bizarre in their mindsets that it is almost like watching a B movie where a poor writer tried to make up awful politicians. They offer a nightmare scenario of big government and the demise of the U.S. as a world leader.

A point for all the Obama supporters – he has been just as nasty as the Clintons in some of his campaigning either through surrogates or others means – just witness the TV ad (sponsored by Obama's stooges in the Culinary Workers Union) aired in Nevada that targeted Latinos.

The ironic thing is that Obama has had a relatively easy ride not only from the press but from the Clintons themselves. If he thinks it is bad now then it is nothing compared to the barrage of mud-slinging that the Republicans will indulge in if he is the candidate. It is also why the Republican press are deliberately playing up his chances as they feel that Obama will wilt under a relentless onslaught by their gutter operators such Limbaugh.

As the old saying says – if you can't stand the heart get out of the kitchen.

As to the VP nominee – I believe that a Clinton/Obama ticket would trounce any Republican ticket. But unless there is a swift change of tack by both candidates I can't see that happening – going by last night's debate that possibility seems even more remote.

It seems clear to me that Edwards is now running for VP and almost certainly as part of a Clinton ticket. He knows he is unlikely to be selected by Obama as it would mean the democratic slate only had 10 years senatorial experience between them. That possibility has been somewhat confirmed by recent events with Edwards supporters in Nevada transferring to Clinton and Edwards himself attacking Obama for the first time in the campaign.

If Obama wins he has to go for an experienced VP nominee – Bill Richardson being the prime candidate – he ticks all the right boxes when it comes to experience, personality and background – a vote-winner when it comes to the Latino vote. the ironic thing is if Clinton wins and cannot stand the thought of Obama as VP then Richardson should be her choice too!!

If Obama can't take barbs from Clinton, how will he handle barbs from Republicans?

KIM SC aren't they the exact qualities you and the dem/libs despise about George Bush ?

I was working during the debate and did not get to watch.

What is most amazing in that statement is that I normally would not have ever before even considered watching a political debate. From the transcripts I have read, Edwards did extremely well tonight. I have said before and will continue to say that if Edwards or Clinton are the Democratic nomination, I would vote for them. I may not agree with all of their stated agendas, but I could and would support them.

I have always felt, and still feel, that Obamba has a secret agenda that he isn't letting us see. I have voted for the Democrat in all previous elections not because I am a Democrat, but because I thought that they were worth voting for. If Obamba wins the nomination, I cannot vote for him, a view that the rest of the voting members of my family share.

My vote should not be about voting against this or that. It should be about who best represents things I am interested in or has the personality I feel best suits the office. The media, in my opinion, treat Obamba like a rock star. Lots of flash and, for me, no substance.

This is not what I would like in a President.

For all those who say that Barack Obama is engaging in dirty tricks like the Clintons NAME THEM you can't there is none, there is one simple reason why; Obama's talent can overcome that. I mean I really I have no idea what these people are talking about. Dirty Tricks such as? OH RAY wake up man, Clinton told an audience full of people, something like" AND YOU WON'T BELIEVE THIS, I AM NOT MAKING THIS UP, Barack Obama said that Republicans were good etc." and its not at all what he said, in essence he was doing what he said he wasn't: making it up, THATS CALLED LYING. What has Obama lied about? Again you can't name it? not to say Obama is perfect, but people such as Ray who let others think for themselves do not need to vote, if your not willing to take your duties to your fellow man seriously, and critically analyze the issue, not merely repeating the talking points of Bill Clinton off the 30 second clip on Good Morning America; it doesn't make you sound like you know what your talking about. Hillary flat out lost, especially when the debate entered areas where she was not well prepared she looked very much like an amatuer. I mean shes up there saying he won't take responsibility for votes, its hard to have a debate, yet Barack explained as simple and clear as possible his actions, yet she kept going on with the same absurd argument, SHE WAS INCAPABLE OF THINKING ON HER FEET, ITS LIKE AFTER BARACK ANSWERED THE QUESTION ABOUT HIS VOTING RECORD VERY CLEARLY. SHE DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY, LIKE SHE HAD NOT EXPECTED THAT TO HAPPEN, SO SHE SIMPLY REPEATED THE SAME TALKING POINT SHE WAS GIVEN; ITS REMINDS ME VERY MUCH OF BUSH(She ain't that bad just trying to make a point). Anyway i'll shut up, but the bottom line is this I come from a Democratic household, that has been so since FDR. If Hillary wins I will vote Republican, Indepedent, or not at all. This election will have some potentially devestaing impacts for the Democratic Party if she wins the nomination. I used to be a debater(just an average debater) and I could beat Hillary Clinton, Edwards and especially Obama bring much more to the table. It will be George W. Bush all over again, but with a Democratic flavor,(thats not good, Bush has basically handicapped the Reps, thats what poor leadership does, it will be the same with Hillary) think about it Hillary's obsession with power, how she would be just a puppet, and her flaws are covered simply because of her name; ITS THE ONLY REASON PEOPLE COULD ACCEPT SUCH A SUB-PAR PERFORMANCE IN THE DEBATE CAN PEOPLE JUST BE HONEST WITH THEMSELVES

Scott,
One cannot agree with you more. A win for Hillary will mean congress will basically shut down. The Republican will make sure no meaningfull legislature is pass. They is no doubt many of them (republican) have unfinish business with the Clinton and this will be an opportunity to settle those scores on the floor of congress. One can see many bill in the senate being block because of the 60 vote threshold; health care, energy, education etc etc. At the end of the day, it is the American people who will suffer. Why with a nation of more than 300 million people, with the best schools and the smartest people in the world want to suffer so that two people, Bill and Hillary can achieve their personal fantasy.

Im watching it again right now,, still not impressed, these two Hillary and Obama really do not like each other, and edwards really isn't getting enough time to,adress the issues better than to say "yeah what she said to Obama "

So Obama stood up and defended himself from Billarys lies and deception. It was inevitable with the Clintons spreading lies would lead to him reacting. Theirs only so many times you can take the high road. I'm supporting Obama all the way but I was very impressed by John Edwards tonight. The best of luck to him.

am in asia. saw the debate on cnn. our sincere wish….do vote for Edwards

and if I may add, all those drunk and stoned please give us your impaired opinions as well lol

Clinton's attempts to attack Obama's legislative record are not only lame, they are also fundamentally dishonest. Does she actually believe that Obama wanted sex shops near schools in Illinois? Does she actually believe that after initially opposing the war, his subsequent votes on Iraq–identical to hers–are reflective of anything other than his belief that, with American troops on the ground and chaos in the streets, it would be irresponsible to cut off funding for the war? (Later, after the 2006 attack on the Al Askariya mosque transformed the Iran-Iraq war into a clear Sunni-Shi'ite struggle, both Obama and Clinton decided it was time to leave and changed their positions again…another reasonable calibration in an extremely complicated situation.) So far as I can tell, the only significant substantive difference Clinton has raised so far is Obama's vote in favor of the disgraceful 2005 Energy Bill at the behest of downstate Illinois ethanol and coal interests. But why didn't she bring that up in the debate?

Obama is probably making a mistake letting the Clintons' semi-skeevy attacks on his record affect him this way. He's on the defensive constantly. Not a good thing.

4. One area where Obama should be on the defensive is health care, but neither Clinton nor Edwards were willing to explain the real difference between their plans and his: About 1/3 of the 47 million uninsured are people (young people, mostly) who can afford insurance but choose not to buy it. Clinton and Edwards would force them to buy in; Obama wouldn't. (All three plans would subsidize those who can't afford to buy in, so Obama's inference that Clinton and Edwards would be laying "penalties" on the poor is nonsense). The mandated presence of all adult citizens in a universal system is not merely a moral or civic necessity, it is also necessary to expand the risk pool (healthy young people help pay for less healthy working poor and elderly people) and to create the circumstances necessary for the most important mandate: that insurance companies cover everyone, regardless of pre-existing conditions. The reason why neither Clinton nor Edwards are willing to be clear on the issue is this–they don't want to lose the votes of those young people who don't want to be forced into pay for health insurance.

I think Obama did very well in the debate to present himself as a electable candidate and he will make a good president who bring the people together. I just don't think Hillary's confrontational style –perhaps it might be her nature– works. She just needs to take a deep breath and relax.

Why shouldnt president bush get made fun of, look whats he's managed to do for his friends in the last few years…This was really boring to watch, the people in the back ground who clap on Q are kinda lame its worse then watching univision, that show with the people who sing and act at the same time with dolphins and pirate ships in the water all around them..Hillary and Obama and Edwards kinda looked like that but their being serious. Looks kinda like a comedy show at this point, if you say something and someone laughs or claps just keep saying it the people made some sort of neurological response to this one, there not just sitting there and staring they must agree with it…All 300 million of them, so ill say it over and over again from Churches and from Harlem which helps me relate to the everyday man that i represent..Except that people know that corporations control washington so watching these people on tv tonight kinda makes you wonder why News stations and Tv pundits keep letting them look this stupid, they must all be operating on the same level, so whats the use of having any sort of media at all when everything is a gossip column based on rumors and fabricated words with no intrinsic value except what we give them. It looked really stuid tonight and they sounded real;ly stupid…The republicans are worse though, Freds one liners and the fact they get some sort of response says it all.

John Edwards was the most mature and articulate candidate on stage tonight. The mainstream media is distorting the race and doing a disservice to our democracy by not portraying to the American people the three candidate race.

If John Edwards does not win this nomination it is not because he isn't the most qualified; it is because the media decided they would report on the two richest candidates who are "making history" instead of the one who would bring about true change with no Wall Street or big corporate ties.

They have already driven out the most qualified presidential candidate in Joe Biden, I hope they do not ostracize the next best – and – the most electable once the eyeliner and rouge have melted away and the Dem electorate realizes America will never vote in a minority or a woman.

The choice is clear – EDWARDS in November. If only Dem voters, in S.C. and beyone, awaken to this reality before it's too late. Hopefully tonight was a significant catalyst for that shift in so-called conventional wisdom.

Going into the debate I was eager to see how Hillary and Obama would react to each other given all the b.s. that has entered this debate. To be truly unbiased as to race or gender,all this analisys should be focused on the candidates stand on the VERY despirate situations that Bush in his infinite STUPIDITY, has created, the economy, war in Iraq, privacy invasions in the name of national security, the list goes on.Back biting and skirting the issues,good Christ!!! Edwards to bad hes a white male, the most viable candidate, almost ignored, by sensationalistic media. But tv controls the way we view things now as an avid watcher ofCNN, the least tabliod like news channel, I am still dissapointed ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS!!!!! Is anyone as scared as I am?? We need a problem solver not loudmouth inexperienced grandstanders with god complexes. Has anyone else noticed this abou Obama?? Too soon to show your true colors. Obama claims to have the answers to the problems facing the country,would he mind sharing them with us? Not enough experience in my opinion. The middle class needs a Clinton fix.Edwards would complete the team.Clinton/Edwards 08!!!!

When will Americans wake up! Bill Clinton is not running for President. The meciia gives more footage to Bill than to Hillary. Who cares is Bill was the "first Black President", he isn't running, Hillary is. This is unfair journalism. Let's block Bill from the media. Other candidates in the past did not rely on their spouce to get them in office.

Obama seemed lost and fumbling for words when trying to explain himself. The republicans will totally eat him alive. Edwards has had his time 4 years ago, and the only thing I'm hearing from him is the word "personal". Hillary on the other hand seemed to know what she's talking about every step of the way and can take whatever is thrown at her.

Obama was the first to throw stone during the debate, which is a shame because he was the one who kept talking about "unity" and that overused word "change".

The ECONOMY IS TUMBLING DOWN. We need a president who can tackle the issues head on. Obama is too inexperienced, not equipped enough to solve these huge problems we're facing.

Hillary's sense of entitlement is sickening. She is mean and condescending. How dare she speak of Dr. MLK and in the same breath lesson the value of hope. What exactly has she been doing for the past 7 years, since she speaks of how prepared she is "on the first day." In fact what has she done in 35 years that has made a significant difference in the world we live in today? People are still struggling, children are still starving, millions are still without healthcare insurance, and the jails are still overproportionately filled with African American men.

What exactly has her impact been?

To simplify the differences between the Clinton and Obama campaigns by defining the candidates as anti-Bush or un-Bush is insulting. I would apreciate more coverage of substance and strategy . They are the story not you as a reporter. I don't care what you think, I'm reading to learn about John Edwards,Barrack Obama, Hilary Clintons, posistions on issues.

my hope is that people look around this country and get a good look at the result of the politics of hillary clinton. this is not to say obama is the answer, but isn't it refreshing to see a politician who doesn't want to bring someone down to prop themselves up. go obama!!!!

The Democratic debate was a great opportunity for Senator Clinton to show her brilliance, clarity and dexterity on the issues. Senator Obama, however, stammered and defended his indecisive voting record, lack of a clear plan on health care and insinuating comments to inspire Americans to "Think Black" and vote for "Me, Your Brother." "I don't know if Bill Clinton is a brother until I see him dance" is this kind of insinuation. Yes, many Black supporters grinned. Obama, the first Black president; Obama, the first Black president; ad nauseum. 41% of Black Americans polled think race is important. Obama may actually create racial divides. What does "precepts of Jesus Christ" mean when he refers to his short-term Christian affiliation? Obama's message remains murky. What happened to Obama's Islamic fundamental roots? "No one is perfectly clean in politics" Obama states while touting special interest lobbyists who have financed his quick stride to the presidency. Does Obama have a clean record on his Islamic fundamental roots? Was he not defending a slum lord while MLK was walking on Washington? His foreign policy consists of major ties to African nationals who are waiting with bated breath to become his special interest group. Was the primary concern of this debate to become the first Black president? If South Carolina voters choose this way then what have we got? Nothing more than an inexperienced senator with a cadence of specious rhetoric that lacks the "How To Get It Done" for all Americans.

John Edwards was the clear winner in what one might call a debate. Hillary Clinton is very knowledgable about her policies, and proposals; as a presidential candidate. However her tone and argumentative behavior toward Mr. Obama was a little over the top. Mr. Obama needs to be much more specific on what his proposals are for health care, ect. He is definitely not a good debater; however Ms. Clinton is not an inspirational speaker. John Edwards is the dark horse here. The Democrats may have to compromise and place him on the top of the ticket. The clinton and Obama Show can and will hurt the partie;s chance for Victory in November. If Ms. clinton secures the nomination, she had better reserve some of that tough and arguementative behavior for the Republicans, since they will throw everything they have at her and the President. By the way I feel that Ms. clinton is extremely knowledgable, and a skilled politician. But let's be real if she had not been married to Bill Clinton; I doubt if she would be ithe democratic front runner. I do not mean to dimiish her accomplisments, but being married to one of the most popoular presidents of the last 50 years is an distinct advantage over the other two candidates..

Barack Obama must keep his mind fouse on the American Peoples
and stop letting the Clintons frustrate him to their level. Walk by Faith
and wisdom. Do not get off track stay calm. I'm so sick of hearing about
Hillary 35yrs experiences. All of you stop fighting its enough of that in Iraq
Good Luck to all

KDS44

I am definitely supporting Hillary, but I think they all did a fantastic job tonight and, quite frankly, I would be proud to have any of them in office.

HOWEVER I don't think it makes any logical sense to categorize Hillary as "anti-Bush" while Barack can be labeled "un-Bush" when BOTH of their policies are clearly anti-Bush.

I think it's great that Barack wants to cross party lines but the fact is that there is a Democratic and Republican party because of the distinct ideological differences(whether they be fiscially, socially etc.) that exist in the American public. So it SOUNDS great when Barack says that he wants everyone to get along, but the truth is that a pro-life Republican, supporting the Iraq war is NOT going to vote for Barack because he is charasmatic and a nice person. The political differences are tangible and real and will always separate the American public.
Obama cannot be seen as a moderator when he has such a strong left-leaning political agenda.

Barack needs to stop trying to be a friend to all, and start being a leader who has a strong grasp on the issues and is willing to fight whoever it takes to push them through Washington.

Obama Democrats have their heads in the sand about "building consensus". If the last 7 years haven't proven to them that Republicans are incapable of bipartisan governance, then they have no capacity to distinguish reality from fantasy. The Republicans in Washington have goosestepped behind the megalomaniac pretender-in-chief from day one. I don't know how they sleep at night with the shame and guilt of their betrayal of this nation and the atrocities that they have allowed to be perpetrated in our name overseas. Republicans have only one agenda, getting power and keeping it. Obama wants one thing…to be the first black President…his message of change and hope is only so much snake oil. BUT I don't think it matters who wins the nomination…the corruption-laden Republican party and the idiot Bush's legacy of warmongering, Constitution-trampling, and economy-trashing should be more than enough to swing the election to the Democrats. All the Republican voters I know are too embarrassed to talk politics at all, and I think a lot of them may just stay home in November. But Republican legislators have no shame and they'll vote the party line and their pockets every time…they've never done anything for the average hardworking American and they never will. They're arrogant, greedy, judgmental,callous, and self-serving. If Obama really believes that he can "work" Republicans, then he is truly deluded and maybe Democrats should think twice about making him their nominee.

the media seams to be deciding whose in and whose not. bill stop pushing edwards down ppls throughts. he is a good guy dont get me wrong but report on what happend not what you made of the debate.
i wount be sad if you wrote edward will be a wonderful running mate for obama……
go obama!!!!!!!!!!!

Edwards is just trying to get enough delegates to broker a deal to be Vice pres. Why was Obama so defensive about his voting record? It was like a kid saying everyone is picking on me. What does Obama think the republicans are going to do with his voting record during the general election, they will use it to make him look weak and not willing to take a stand on difficult issues. If Obama is getting upset that Bill and Hillary are playing hard ball and he does not know who he is running against, what till the republicans start there attack machines. Obama will not be able to hold up with all the attacks from the right wing. Have we forgotten about the veteran Swiftboat?

I was born in Kenya legally immigrated to the US and want to vote countryman. I was going to vote for Obama till I saw the debate today. I am now undecided.

Edwards is still stuck on what Bush has done, Obama seems weak and needs some more experience, that leaves Clinton, I am not sure about that vote.

Clinton for President, Obama Vice President that would get my vote!

well, it was a very lively debate, but cnn again mismanaged it. they didn't give the candidates enough time to answer each slam. they gave obama too much time. i thought obama was stuttering and taking up too much time up without anwering the question. i thought edwards did a good job, but in all fairness hillary did answer the clearly and concisely. i just wish they would have let her answer the slams that obama leveled at her. well, it must have been set up for obama, because it was sponsored by the black caucas. i really getting tired of the debates and all they are doing is split the democratic pary. GO HILLARY!!!

Edwards has DEFINITELY GOT MY VOTE. After carefully considering Clinton and Obama, I realised that Edwards has got the only clear platform, and the only one addressing the right issues (i.e. big business and lobbyists and their inappropriate influence on government, which in my view underlies most of what is wrong in all the other key areas, such as Iraq, the environment, heaklth care ans cosial security, immigration, the abandonment of New Orleans, etc) and every bit as much (or more) skill and experience.

Hillary Clinton showed the most respect I have witnessed in my 45 years watching politics’. She gave each possible VP her complete attention, looking at them while they spoke and looking at them when she responded. Looking at the flip side either John Edwards or Barack Obama looked at her when she responded. This definitely showed me that both Obama and Edwards are still part of the boys club and women do not deserve the respect as men. I was all for Obama until I witnessed his nastiness and inability communicate with confidence. Now do get me wrong I have made my decision yet, however I am leaning more toward Clinton.

John Edwards, it was wonderful to hear him hit the real issue in America. Thank you for pointing out poverty and the gap. I think that if you make a million dollars a year you should pay social security taxes on this and I personal believe this could possible end the issues currently facing Social Security
Obama and the issue of decimation now this is a real issue as well. The Americans need to be aware that this is still a real issue, be it sex, age, race, or orientation. Thank you.

Over all this was an excellent debate. I heard the heart of the campaigns not the bull just to get elected.
.

Robert Dalton, Obama addressed Clinton's lie about how he fought for a slum lord while working as a lawyer for a Church. Five hours of work for a Church who is partnering with a property owner doesn't constitute fighting for a slum lord. Furthermore, Hillary Clinton didn't prove that this man was in fact a slum lord or give us his name so he could defend his honor and good name from the personal attacks of a public figure on a private citizen. I am sure that Hillary Clinton lost his vote and the vote of his loved ones when she decided that she had the right to say this.

It's definitely not the un-bush candidate. I like him, but this was a bush promise during his 2000 campaign. Bush campaigned on his ability to bring people together to pass legislation…"I am a uniter not a divider" was a key tenet of his campaign.

The party divisions exist and they are not going to go away. We have to make politicians vote based on what americans want. That is about stepping up and becoming involved in the process.

Who can deliver the most comprehensive set of policies that will rescue us inflicting the least amount of pain from the nightmare legacy of Bush?

This is the real question…yes

Hillary the winner and Edwards the VP '08

HERE IS AN EXCERPT FROM MY BLOG THECANDUMEMO.BLOGSPOT.COM
FOR AN IDEA THAT THE CANDIDATES COULD DEBATE

THE ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTION – MISSING IN OUR PRESENT IRAQI AND MID-EAST POLICY DIRECTION

Obviously, our dependence on Mid East oil (which has now risen to $100 per barrel) to meet our domestic energy needs has very significant influence on our Mid East policies. We need to expand and find energy conservation and alternative energy sources to remove our dependence on Mid East oil and to improve our environment, including the issue of global warming. We need to bring the full and maximum utilization of alternative energy sources with more efficiency in all devices that utilize energy.

However, I would note here from one of the published comments to this blog by Larry Sanazaro that it is also needed for the government in parallel to the above to provide the necessary consumer and industrial incentives to vastly stimulate energy conservation and to substantially reduce consumer and industrial energy consumption.

Here are some suggestions for doing so using the“Theory of Tax-Enomics” (note I am the founder of this theory and its foremost authority).

ETHANOL VS. GASOLINE:
Today in many parts of the country we see particularly in the summertime that gasoline has 10% ethanol (thus the remaining 90% is gasoline derived from refined oil). What we need to see is 90% Ethanol and 10% gasoline. We can do this with the proper economic and tax incentives and the assistance of the Federal government by use of government grants.

By utilizing significant tax incentives for the consumer and producer, ethanol gas (90% ethanol and 10% oil refined gas) could be produced in sufficient quantities and technological improvements to replace gasoline with only 10% ethanol as our primary source of energy for running motor vehicles and other public transportation. We need to get our airplanes to be able to utilize this energy source. The economic law of supply and demand will also improve the cost of this energy source. The larger demand and supply could significantly reduce the unit cost of this energy source.

However, as noted by Larry Sanazaro in his comment alternative energy sources such as sugar cane, corn and other ground grown sources of alternative energy may eventually effect the balance of nature such as rain forests and their depletion. Perhaps, as example, some better consumer and business incentives to maximize the use of speed limit reduction to the 55 MPH, which in the past has proven to be a very effective way of reducing gasoline (refined oil) consumption.

SOLAR, WIND AND SEA POWER VS. OIL HEATING SOURCES:
These sources of power have been totally underutilized. Many people argue that the unit cost and effectiveness (particularly of Solar Power) limits the growth and significant increase in their utilization. I say the opposite particularly as to SOLAR for the following reasons:

SOLAR POWER
This is an alternative energy source appears to be unlimited in supply, which it my opinion makes it one of the best sources of alternative energy. If this source of energy can be captured cost effectively it could prove to the most widely used alternative source of energy. Almost all other sources of energy that come from the earth including ground grown alternative sources may eventually, even if centuries away, be limited in supply.

Imagine if we could store energy produced by Solar Power in sufficient quantities to heat and air condition our homes, businesses and government offices; to run our autos and trucks, perhaps even our ships and airplanes; to generate the power to run our businesses, industrial and government offices and plants; and all of our other energy needs. Imagine if we could have huge strategic reserves of stored Solar Power. I ask why trucks, cars, trains, airplanes and other transportation vehicles can not use Solar Panels on their roofs to gather Solar Power. All we have to do is find a way for the Solar Power to be stored efficiently and magnified.

Obviously, this will take tremendous technology advancements to increase the efficiency and storage of Solar Power. Government and proper tax incentives could make this research possible. It probably is our best solution to find sufficient alternative energy without producing global warming or an in balance of nature.

An interesting way to increase the effectiveness and decrease the unit cost of SOLAR POWER has not been exploited (except by a firm I believe in Texas from a rumor I heard). It is very simple. Do you remember when you were a child, someone would take a magnifying glass on a sunny day and get a piece of paper on the ground to burn? Well that was energy. Maybe we could find a way to increase effectiveness of SOLAR POWER and the condensed storage of SOLAR POWER by the use of magnification? My idea – but if someone spends the money maybe it could be made to work.

WIND AND SEA POWER:
Two additional sources of very powerful energy that has been totally underutilized. These two alternative sources of energy also appear to be of unlimited supply, but may be harder to control their intensity and frequency. However, they do appear to not cause any in balance to nature by their use.

Obviously, the effectiveness for utilizing these two energy sources is presently limited by the unit cost to the consumer and producer. However, the unit cost is significantly decreased by a massive increase in their utilization. Also we need significant technological improvements to decrease the unit cost.

This is where the Federal Government via a tax incentives and grants to US businesses in this field would have huge benefits. Also significant increase in the utilization of all of the above energy sources will have three other positive effects.

1. A positive effect on global warming.

2. The economic benefit of utilization of American workers to produce locally this energy source could be a major source of jobs and employment in the US, which would help our local economies grow.

3. The reversal of our trade balances with external oil producers from the Mid East, South America and elsewhere, thus pouring US dollars back into the US economy instead of the pockets of foreign oil producing countries.

All of the above would have significant positive effects on the global warming problem that our children, grand-children and future generations will be facing.

Some people would say this is too expensive and too costly for our government to massively utilize these alternative energy sources ( that have unlimited quantities, far in excess of all of the oil reserves). There are other parts of this solution that here that could have several very positive effects on our economy described as follows:

1. Some have called for the privatization of the Social Security Fund Accounts. Those that have argued against privatization argue that the Social Security Fund should be untouchable and retirees; benefits if not paid to some would generate the need for more public welfare as an offset for lost benefits. Well, we could do a compromise with no risk to the retirees, but a way to significantly increase the Social Security Fund and protect our consumers and the economy from price gouging by foreign oil producers.

Here is the proposal:

A. The Social Security Fund would invest part of the funds in a major increase in the strategic oil reserve, which the fund would own. Whenever prices would drop low this investment fund of the Social Security Fund would buy in the open market additional oil for the Strategic Oil Reserve owned by the Social Security Fund. Whenever the market has the artificial rises in the price of oil the Social Security Fund will sell off a portion of its strategic oil reserve in the open market at the higher prices (LIKE THE RECENT RISE TO $100 A BARREL) to force the price of oil down by increasing the oil supply domestically. Now we would have the compound effect of investing at no risk social security funds to generate profits for the fund, and a market tool to keep the price of oil from rising artificially too high for American consumers and businesses. For this proposal I am sure the foreign oil producers will probably put me on their do not call list or worse.

B. The Social Security Fund would also invest part of its funds in long-term financing for consumers and businesses investment in alternative energy sources. Again we would have a compound effect of generating additional and higher income for the fund and encouraging with government financing the consumer and business investment in alternative energy sources and equipment.

In both cases the Federal Government would be a guarantor for the Social Security Fund/s investment to protect it from any loss, which under the above plans should never happen.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FOR THE CANDIDATES – A NEW AND DIFFERENT IDEA

Anti-Bush? Why, Hillary is almost Republican! I almost threw up when I heard she was on the board of Walmart… Give Clinton and Obama their pistols and 10 paces and Edwards would be a clear winner.

I don't understand Clinton's views on Health Care. Does she really think we don't have insurance out of choice? Does she understand that for many people it's a choice between health care or a roof over their heads, or food? We're paying $800 per month per person for health care, or $2400 per month for a family of 4. And that's before all the deductibles and co-pays.

I like Kucinich, and I'd like to vote for him, but I want my vote to count. Out of the 3 that are left, Edwards stands for what I believe on the issues best, but I like Obama's presence better.

I think the next race should be McCain/Clinton vs Obama/Edwards.

in the sports media i think they call schneider's version of things, color commentary. the actual game is a quite different thing. but don't worry the media will be quick to change it's tune to catch up to the next play.

Edwards definitely won the debate tonight with no help or even an equal playing field from CNN. I was appalled at how obvious they were in focusing on Hillary and Obama and having Edwards just off in the sidelines. I believe they only ask him one question and didn't even have the other two respond to the same question. They let Obama and Clinton go on and on but when Edwards tried to talk he was cut short. It would be interesting to know exactly how many minutes the three candidates talked. Maybe CNN should have stuck to some rules so we could have had a fair debate. Obama really showed his arrogrance by overtalking the other two and saying what he had to say was important like what the others had to say wasn't. CNN WAS A DISGRACE TONIGHT AS A NEWS ORGANIZATION.

You know, the only real powers that the President of the United states has are command of the armed forces (with acts of war having to be mandated by congress), veto power( except for in the case of 2/3 majority override), and the Supreme court/cabinet nominations (subject to senate confirmation) .
The President cannot make or change law on his/her own and even the budget must be approved by congress.
The President's single most important attribute is their skill as an orator. Their ability to raise issues in the national forum. They must be able to persuade others to agree with them or else nothing on their agenda gets done. I believe that someone who inspires hope and preaches unity is going to get a lot more people to agree with their agenda than someone who declares they are ready to fight tooth and nail or "go to the mat." when the only tool they have to do that is to sign or veto a bill.

the democratic party intends to withdraw troops in iraq and maintain a stable political government. If you can recall the vietnam war pulling the troops out of iraq will not result in a a stable political government . In fact the true art and understanding of history is that it repeats its self. to pull troops out of iraq will yet again result in a loss of this war. So , my question being with that being said if we were to pull out of iraq how can wee be sure that the political government will be stable in iraq. Will we stand by and watch the united states make the same mistake ?

I thought Hillary did an outstanding job. She is articulate and conveys her message right on point. Edwards was also very good.

I actually don't think Obama does as well in a debate setting. He gets off message and talks in circles….

I'd give Hillary and Edwards each an A and Obama a B

Obama fumbled again this evening, every debate I've notice Obama cannot seem to be quick on his feet. My boy, (Edwards) shine this evening. Among the three of them, it was Hillary who gave direct answer to questions, she knows what she was talking about and how to do it. In my scorecard, Obama is at the bottom of the tier.

Clinton/Edwards ticket sound promising for General Election.

I was very proud of John Edwards tonight. I will vote for him without any reservation. This is not to say anything negative about the other two candidates, but John Edwards is head and shoulders above the others.

Any woman planning to take on the Republican establishment has to show that she is strong and a fighter. Obama attacked her first, and it was right for Hillary to fight back. John Kerry refused to fight back or defend himself in 2004 and look at where it got him.

It's sad and funny, no pathetic that people fall for this Obama "change" crap he throws out.

It's the same disaster as 2000 when the sheep flocked to Bush based on empty words.

Obama has been a master at avoiding details of his personal life, resume, his family, his qualifications and yes his voting record, the hypocrisy of it all.

and thanks to the media including CNN they let him get away with it all. They never delve into the hard facts about this man, NEVER !

"Change" is a word. I can promise you the moon if you vote for me, but am I willing to explain how I intend to deliver?

I can't believe people in this country are so dumb they fall for this horse crap. Americans easily sold with fairy tales and sprinkles of "Change".

Nonsense. Obama is so unqualified it's scary.

Also the media bias against the Clintons in general, never checking facts on who started the race card playing (Obama did, I heard it in his speeches in person!), the facts behind things he whines about that he claims the Clintons did.

Doesn't anyone ever check out the facts behind these lies? Oh that's right, the media is pro Obama so they'll let him get away with murder as they have done with Bush.

Wanna talk drugs? ok, let's say he was 23 when he did them, ok I don't know what the age was, but do you seriously think if that had been Hillary it wouldn't be a huge issue in the media? How is this not relevant? If he did them at 23 or 33, let's compare it to what Hillary was doing at 23 or 33.

This is ridiculous the fan fair over Obama and the insane irrational hate for Hillary who has a helluva resume what she's done her whole life to help others, that anyone should envy.

I'm completely ashamed to be an American at this point. First 8 yrs of the most incompetent corrupt president in history, the media slacks off and doens't cover the real stories behind this administration, and now all this crap with everyone bowing to Obama. I'm so done with it all. If Hillary doesn't win, let a rethuglitard win it again and completely destroy this country. We deserve it. Americans are so dumbed down it's a lost cause it seems.

i felt obama took little to no responsibility for his past record…..could not answer a question clearly….and was very defensive. i must admit that his answer to whether or not bill clinton was the first black president was really funny. so he does have a sense of humor. hillary, on the other hand, was spot on. she is professional, and strong, and very clear in her thoughts, and speech. she is experienced enough to handle the presidency. she has my vote.

I think Hillary won the debate and has the experience to be President and to deal with the mess that Bush and Cheney has gotten this country into.

How about a Clinton / Obama ticket ?

Marianne from Illinois

I find it very disturbing the way Obama answered the question about economy & healthcare.

The question was what he plans to do now that there is a strong feeling of recession in the air ? How does he fix it ?

He is talking about the past (war and how much money it has consumed) true we do not deny it, now can you answer the question as you are trying to sit in a position that could help resolve this problems for American people. I think by the time he prepares the answers and does anything the recession would have come and gone.

Hillary had some good ideas about what she is planning to do. at least Edwards had some ideas for the long term… Obama on the other hand zip… nada….

The same with healthcare…. seems to be that Obama is good at making public speeches… but when it comes to policy, he doesn’t show the maturity of the other two. he just throws some numbers and vague statements. nothing more to it.

Look , Obama show himself strong in the debate he had to because of all the false things that was said about him. You all have to agree that the Clintons was making him look unfavorable. Obama really want change and he has wisdom on these issues that our country faces. GIve Obama a chance to make that change that our country need. We already had the Clintons what great change have they made.

During the debate the Presidential candidates touched slightly on who the real predatory lenders are – The Banks and credit card companies that have a legal license to destroy families by charging ursureous interest rates – many times disguised as various named "service fees". The banks and credit card companies have lobbied congress for the legal license to charge interest rates and fees that exceed 30% and sometimes as high as over a 1000%.
How about a bank that charges $32 to pay a $6.00 wire fee charged by a mortgage bank to pay your mortgage, because the payment makes your account to have insufficient funds? Yes they did pay the $6, but they charged $32 for the privilege!!
They use teaser rates to suck you in, and then many times force you in to being "late" and then raise your rate to 29+%, because you were late once. Then they have a big write off $10billion to clean up their balance sheets and borrow money internationally (great for the balance of funds).
Do you fear to discuss this problem on your show? The only thing you have to fear is fear itself.
Do not be a coward!!

All said and done, the share markets everywhere else are bleeding because of the grossly incompetent President. We definitely do not need hope nor prayers but experience and Hillary is the ready to take on the most important job not only for America but the rest of the world.

i agree, edwards had a great debate! he's back, at least for now. he does have a good point about mtching up best against mccain. we'll see on saturday. could be a surprise, or another bad saturdeay for edwards.

Obama was nasty?????

No, I don't THINK so. Hillary was nasty, AND was trying to feed us lies and distortions. I thought Obama was very restrained and respectful when defending himself from bush-style attacks.

Clinton is bought and paid for. She CAN NOT WIN! McCain will thrash her in the general election. Once again, HILLARY CAN NOT WIN.

She SHOULD not win, because she REFUSES to go to bat for her constituents, who are aware that the "official" NIST investigation of the twin towers DID NOT evaluate global collapse. Are you surprised? The offical NIST study work scope analyzed the time from plane impact to the INITIATION of collapse for both towers. This fact, ALONE, is enough to demand a new investigation. Those towers collapsed in approximately 10 seconds (10 stories PER SECOND) through the path of MOST resistance. It defies the laws of Physics, which may explain why NIST simply IGNORED (excluded) the global collapses. These are LEGITIMATE scientific questions and facts, and Hillary REFUSES TO STAND UP AND DEMAND A COMPLETE INVESTIGATION ON BEHALF OF THE VICTIMS. This is totally unacceptable.

I am from Illinois. The legislature works differently than in DC because rather than being forced to vote up or down on legislation that has "issues", law makers have 3rd option. They can band together and vote present which is a signal that they are willing to vote yes if they can get changes they are seeking. it is usually done by a group of legislators not just 1-2. We hear DC politicians say all the time they voted for a bill but they did not support a particular provision. Illinois has this process in place to help legislatures fine tune the final product.

Am i missing something? Senator Clinton keeps saying she has 35 years experience. She is only a junior senator with 5 years of experience. She has never managed or run a government or a business. Why does Barrack keep letting her say this half truth. She may have experience as the first lady but her husband Bill sealed the record on her so called White House experience until 2012. Why does Wolf let her get away with exposing this half truth without challenging her. If being a lawyer and and activist gives you the experience to be president than my mom would be a candidate!! Come on CNN & Wolf hold her pointy shoes to the fire, no free passes!!

Robert,

I can't personally verify his words but Obama said he did 5 hours of work on that file. Get real. Did you really watch the debate or did you just catch the half hour highlights?

Kudos to Edwards for keeping his composure but then again he did flare up during the second half of the debate but the loyal Edward-ites don't seem to notice that at all. Strange….

This is great. I feared watching Obama with his charisma in a 1 on 1 with the GOP candidate because I feel certain that he would be able to charm enough of the independent vote to take the White House.

Now that I see the Clinton machine destroying Obama I feel much better. Half of this country has already said that they will not vote for Hillary. So, half of our job is done as soon as she gets the nomination.

Now all we need is McCain to grab all of those independent votes.

I counted myself as an Obama admirer, close to being an Obama supporter just 2 weeks ago. Tonight, I know I am definitely voting for Hilary-without a single doubt. Obama is running a campaign which seems to be spiraling out of control. And his latest attacks on the Clintons, aided by the ill-informed and non-credible Atlanta mayor, turns my stomach. President Clinton has a history and a proven track record. He was a president who may have not been perfect-no president ever has been-his heart was with the American people. When it came to fighting for the rights of the disadvantaged and powerless, Bill Clinton and Hilary Clinton were there. When it wasn't popular to speak out on civil rights and human rights issues, Bill and Hilary were there.

Obama offers nothing more than wishful thinking. He refuses to state his real positions. The few he has timidly reveal are exceedingly liberal, and extreme left wing ideology won't win it in November. I am ready for this pimary to be over so that Hilary can move forward to November. She is the only candidate who truly understands America.

"Clinton is running as the anti-Bush, while Obama is running as the un-Bush. Which will primary voters prefer?"
___________________________________________

– An excellent question, with a surprisingly simple answer:

A) If you are filled with hate and want the hate to continue, you will vote for Hillary Clinton.

B) If you are sick to death of the hate and want to see ALL Americans be a part of the same America again, you will vote for Barack Obama.

There, you see? Race and gender has nothing to do with it. Judge the person by their character, and not by the color (or shape) of their skin.

I actually thought Edwards looked fantastic tonight! As an undecided voter I've been following these three for some time now. I was thrilled early on in the race with Obama's tone, view and ideas – but soon was won over by Hillary's experience and poise. I had pretty much forgotten Edwards – until tonight. I've never seen Obama look so desperate and aggressive. He came across as very nasty and divisive. I was saddened to see Hillary stoop to his level and engage in pointless bickering. There are many more important issues to be debating and Edwards proved to be the voice of reason. I'm looking forward to the California debates that will hopefully cement my vote for one candidate or another – but after tonight I've decided against Obama.

I fear it's "too little, too late" for John Edwards. my wife and I caucused for him in Nevada last Saturday and he didn't make the 15% "viability" test in most precients. most of his supporters went over to Obama rather than Clinton who most DISPISE.

I feel like those that say "If it's Clinton, I will vote Republican" BUT that's the going off half cocked attitude that got us George W in the first place. you have to KNOW that any Republican, even McCain, will be just more disasterous Bush NeoCon Republican policies. Hillary may not be the answer BUT she sure is "the lesser of two weasels"

I was truly disgusted at the Clinton-political-machine being polarizing & divisive. I was really giving Hillary the benefit of the doubt to stick to issues that are of great concern to me right now—the economy & the resolution of the Iraq war. But apparently that's not the case with regards to what I heard tonite. I'm exhausted with all of the character-attacking… it does nothing to alleviate our economic woes nor does it help to bring our men & women home. You lost my support Clinton & I'm giving my vote to someone else.

Canadian perspective. I like Edwards. I think he is the only one committed to battlimg the lobbying cartel in Washington.

I disagree. I felt that tonight, Senator Edwards was very much a third wheel… and a very unnecessary one at that. Of course formalities were adhered to– Sen. Edwards was allowed to speak his view at times– but it seemed forced and unimportant, as though it was just a quick interlude before the cameras went back to Sens. Obama and Clinton to hear the real debate.

Edwards may get a boost, but he's still a non-entity in this election.

I am glad to see Sen. Obama has decided to become more forceful.

It was a bad performance for Hillary. Obama showed some grace, respect and looked presidential as CNN anaylst all agreed.

I cannot for the life of me vote for Obama. He comes off as very inexperienced and childish. If Obama gets the nomination, I will be voting Republican for the first time since the Nixon era. Edwards comes off to me as slimey and while Clinton has problems, I feel she is best suited to help get this country back to the greatness it once was before Bush screwed it up.

Lets hope Mrs. Clinton does not make it to the White House, She would probably nag the other "world leaders" to death. I thought it was good that Obama cleared up the distortions and fallacious information presented by Mrs. Clinton. She is power hungry.

Why is it that when the press of any kind speak bad of the Clintons everyone jumps on the bandwagon and always assumes the press is right. Yes the Clintons have been around a very long time, but that doesn't mean that they are
always negative or up to dirty tricks. Lets face it alot of people don't want a woman to be President. Alot of people don't like Hillary at all. But i believe that she can bring unity to all Americans. I think she can give us the new beginning we need and deserve. That is why i believe the press is giving her the bad coverage. They want to break her down. I think its only fair that Obama gets the same press coverage. In all fairness if your going to slam one candidate the other should get the same treatment. Obama says he's playing a clean and fair race, so why is he dodging questions and making up excuses? If Obama can't answer questions and gets defensive all the time and blames Hillary for his losses, how is he gunna run the white house? By blaming his mistakes on the vice-president. Thats not the kind of President i want. I want a President who will stand up for America, a President who will do everything possible to make our world a better place for my children and my grandchildren. Hillary may not be perfect, but you show me one person who is perfect. Everybody has their good and bad points but i believe she has the fight and the vision to change America.

I really enjoyed the last half of this progaram tonight, the format showed what good people all three canidates are and to me it gave a since of hope that after all this debating and fighting for delegates to get the nomination of our party, that maybe we well all be able to pull back togeather and support one canidate. It does bother me when there are comments made by people that seem to be so personnel and mean sprited about any of these three very fine canidates that have given thier lifes to making this a better place to live. I am a Obama supporter but in the end I will support what ever canidate my party chooses. Please lets all try to be good humanbeings, after all it is our American right to disagree and still be a good person.

They're all full of it!! First of all, this health care reform where they're going to 'force' insurers to cover everyone. They are all Senators now, correct? Well, why haven't they addressed big insurance in their current positons? Mainly because, especially in Edwards' case, they have made large amounts of their fortunes suing insurance companies. What makes us think they would be any different as a president? No way they would bite the hand that has fed them so well. Next, let's make sure all these illegals are taken care of. Yea, sure. It's a load of crap when someone who doesn't belong here in the first place is given priority treatment. As an RN, I see it every day. Ms. Smith can't get any assistance with her healthcare & meds because she made $5. too much last year. But we can offer Mr. Gonzalez, who has never paid a dime in social security tax, or income tax for that matter, every serivce we have available and, he doesn't have to worry about paying for it. When the birdfeeder stays full and supplies plenty of food, the birds never go away and get quite boisterous if the seed runs out. Don't refill the feeder for awhile,and the birds will go elsewhere.

John Edwards has always been on the map! He has always been in this!

He NEVER left!

CNN and the mainstream media are the ones who made him invisible to the American people! You guys tried to shut him out!

After the Debate tonight……..do Democrats FINALLY REALIZE that John Edwards is the ONLY decent candidate for the Democratic Nomination? While Clinton and Obama continued their childish bickering and disgusting charade called Formal Debate, John Edwards stepped forth and showed what type of President he would be for this Nation. There is NO way that Clinton and Obama are still in the running after their disgusting performance during the Debate. What rational, intelligent Democrat would Cast a Vote for Either ? John Edwards is the Only Qualified Man for the Demcratic Presidential Nomination.

Edwards won tonight, and he has consistently shown in many head to head polls by CNN and other polling groups that he can beat ANY Republican in November. And by way better margins than Obama, while Clinton cannot beat the Republicans at all.. Edwards is the STrongest Democrat running.

Edwards ability to beat ALL possible Republican opponents is the first, second, and third most important facts in considering who to support. If we nominate Clinton or Obama, neither of whom can win in November, than we have just committed political suicide, yet again.

GET SMART, fellow Democrats. VOTE EDWARDS!!!

I am an independent voter. I have voted for Republicans and Democrats. I am very disappointed in the Hiliary & Bill Clinton stragedy towars Senator Obama.

The Clintons seem to attack the Senator Obama on race at every turn. Why separate a group that is so important to your campaing this year, but also in the future. I think this is a great chance for the Republican party to seize this moment and try to embrace the African American vote.

If the Clintons continue on this course, I would engage the African American voters to take note of this tactic. Sometimes people do ot understand how they can tear away from their power base because of fear.

i just want to say that Senator Barack Obama's message of inspiration has touched a vital cord within me. I was cynical of not only our government, but the human race in particular. He made me feel differently…I can't describe it any other way…he made me feel differently about everything. He opened up a very spiritual part of me. Some may say he's too idealistic, but for me, that's exactly what I neededed.

I, along with many other Americans are so jaded by the way EVERYTHING seems to be going. But he gives me hope in tomorrow. He's the child of an African man and a white woman from the heartland of America. If that message doesn't give you hope, then you're not human.

As a gay male, I've been turned off by religion. Many people have used religion as a means of discriminating against my kind; conservatives say that I'm unsavable, but Barack's message INCLUDES me! It's an amazing feeling to be included into someting – it's wonderful to feel WANTED!

My attachment to Barack's campaign is not simply a political attachment, but really a spiritual one. I find his message of unity and acceptance refreshing and quite indicative of the times.

I pray to god every night that he becomes our leader…the President of the UNITED States of America.

Amen.

Obama ! hum..

he may very well one day become a great president… But he is not ready ! And Americans are not ready either..
too many red necks and prejudice people …too bad

He has very little experience in dealing with matters such as Foreign policies and terrorism .

we are talking here about the most power full country in the world , the USA and we need some one with experience …

So my choice is Clinton.

With all due respect, Bill Schneidel has been wrong so many times and he is wrong yet again on what the voters prefer.

I have been trying to get a better understanding of Sen. Obama's views on the issues. I have come away with the following after listening to the S.C. Democratic debate.

Sen. Obama -
1.) does not support a universal health care system (why not?)
2.) did not take a yes or no position on 140 votes in the Senate but voted "present"; Sen. Edwards wondered why and mentioned that as a Senator, he will take a yes or no decision even if it is hurtful to him politically (that's what it sounds like to me)
3.) regarding voting for an amendment to prohibit credit card companies from charging more than 30% interest, Sen. Obama voted against it b/c he says he thought the ceiling was too high (not a reason not to vote for the amendment to limit)

I won't vote for him.

There is nothing wrong for a democratic candidate to 'preach to the choir' – This is a Democratic party selection process. Once Hillary has been nominated, she will be able to push for her policies under the Democratic Flag and unite the democratic party against the republican nominee. As I have said many times, it seems to me that only DEMOCRATS should select the DEMOCRATIC nominee; republicans choose theirs, and whoever the independents should be their flag barer.

Also, Barak can say whatever he wants about 'uniting' the country… problem is, the other party has to be willing and so far there is no sign of that happening anytime soon. Stop the retoric, Barak. Stop the whining. Let's get on with the process.

I appreciate Mr. Obama's message and style. I am a registered republican who would most likely vote for Mr Obama if he were to run against any of the existing republican candidates. I would most likely not vote for Hillary unless for some reason Huckabee won…

Come on, wake up for those who says still undecied. don't wait till last minute to see where the wind blows, ill-informed. Hitlery & Bill got a lot unanswered scandel, her stand is always inconsistancy, (she said she regret for alot votes she made in senate floor) her experient untested., (What kind of job she really held as an administrator?) obviously she is fighting for her white house bid. Barack got a lot of attention, but we still do not how he can heal this nation's wound? now he is learning how to fight back the Clintons, finally see him grows up, and stands up too. Edward, got into the wrong race in the wrong time and in the wrong side, too bad, sad for Democratic Party. Don't rule out the Republican be a come back kid in the general election, it totally depends on how Democratic stupidly or wisely chooses its norminee. I decided, Mr. Bloomberg is my choice if he decide to run, if not, i'm going back to sleep, as undecided

After watching tonight's debates, I question why you, and the media in general, focused so much on trying to make this election a "gender/race" story, leaving out John Edwards, when he has had the most substantive, consistent, clear message that needs to be heard, even if he is a white male!. When polls were wrong about Hilary in New Hampshire, you did some soul searching about the way your coverage can bias an outcome. Look again at what has been done to make this a two person race, possibly weakening the Democrats to give an advantage to Republicans. Unfortunately the debate tonight showed how the Republicans can exploit the negatives of either Hilary or Obama. John Edwards deserves serious consideration by the voters. I think CNN, and the media in general, owe that to him after really pushing him aside for three months.

As a South Carolinian, Obama ALMOST had me – until tonight.

Stammering, evasive, bafuzzled, whiney.

Now, let's hope MOST people in this state listen to their heads and aren't blinded by the glitz and glamour of the Oprah Machine. That star has faded, especially after tonight.

Gotta say though, Obama almost pulled that one off.

Remember, Obama started the negative tone tonite with his condesending comment about Hillary being on the Wal-Mart Board. I think Hillary's response was appropriate. She was not going to let this man throw his macho egotisical remarks at her! I wish Colin Powell was the first black man running for president.I think he represents what our nation needs in a leader. Since he is not running the only logical choice is Hillary. She is getting my vote!

On the other hand IF Obama is elected, his first task should be to hire a person to give his wife a makeover. She may have the brains but she needs to also dress the part of being the president's wife. Michelle, you might start by taking tips from John McCain's wife.

Running as the "anti-Bush" doesn't seem to be as successful a strategy for winning over independents and moderate Republicans than the "un-Bush", but it may be enough to win the Democratic nomination. I don't think Hillary has any other way to run, and this limits her (and her husband). Whoever ends up as the Republican nominee will have an easier time mobilizing and galvanizing support amonst the "anti-Hillary" crowd than they would throwing darts at Obama, who's consistently (Reagan comments included) had consistently made himself, despite an almost unwavering liberal stance, tolerable to mainstream independents and more than a few Republicans. I think it's tough to be a Democrat these days, having to choose between a historical loyalty to Bill (excuse me, I mean Ms. Clinton), and a new face that suggests an almost "fairy tale" (sorry, had to get that one in there) message of National reconcilliation between Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.

After this debate, one has to wonder how any of these idiots could actually win the White House. Gripe, complain, blame Bush, gripe some more. This is the best the Dems have? Only a fool would even consider voting for these dolts.

I'm not sure I understand how most of you even think the President can ultimately make a big "change" in our country. It needs to be someone who can present themselves confidently with a DIRECT plan to Congress. We are a country of checks and balances people…the President can't necessarily make change. Please vote Hillary…she is the candidate who can handle herself under extreme pressure. Am I the only who thought Obama was drunk tonight? He appeared nervous, stuttered his words and had to dig deep to attack Hillary. And, if he doesn't know who he is campaigning against..Bill or Hillary…then that is his own stupid tactic. It would worry me if he got confused over to different war decisions…."I can't tell which country to attack….Iran? N.Korea….? That is IF he was placed that type of situation. Let's face it, it he a viable candidate…in 8 years from now. He will have grown up by then.

The look on Hillary's face was priceless…."That's All".

Edwards easily took the high ground in this debate.
Out of Clinton and Barack, I feel like Clinton did better mostly because Barack couldn't construct a correct sentensce without a bunch of Ummm and Uhhs – that is not someone who I want as the head of our country.

Nikita, it is folks like you who scare me. You're right that Hillary did have Obama on the defensive, but you are naive to think that the former first lady's experience is something this country needs. If experience is what you're looking for, then I'm sure Cheney or Rumsfeld would also exicte you. Obama is a man of principle, sound judgement and reason. Ms. Clinton is a democrat scorned, who would only keep this country in political regression. 35 years of experience; is she taking credit for high school class president? It is hard to imagine that people can't see just who picked a fight tonight. I'm proud of Barack for standing up to typical Clinton mud-slinging. It is the sign of a desperate woman running a desperate campaign. Obama is for America. Hillary is for herself.

"Clinton is running as the anti-Bush, while Obama is running as the un-Bush. Which will primary voters prefer?"

NEITHER — neither Clinton nor Obama will ever get my vote. They would both be ruinous to the country.

JOHN EDWARDS is the only one of the three that I'll ever vote for. If the DNC can't get its act together and nominate him, I'll write him in. But I will not vote for Clinton or Obama.

I keep hearing over and over and over, we need a change, I think that is how every american feels, to the detriment they are really not being realistic about Obama. they're seeing things in this man that they are all "hoping " for. He may develope what tools and knowledge he needs in a few years but clearly people don't let be unrealistic. Yes he is young energetic, great looking and a wonderful speaker but look at his experience. That's not to say his day will not come but please don't let sentiment factor over sound reason.This young man needs some "seasoning" to be ready for the office of President.

After Obama's performance this evening, the line "forge consensus" is no longer appropriate for him. He was extremely divisive, arrogant, egocentric and controlling. His "Wait a minute. This is important" line gobbled up John's time especially. This was always followed by a slow, stuttering, annoying rhetoric which really didn't accomplish anything. He doesn't stand up to scrutiny at all well. His half answers were pathetic. Southern gentleman John won this one with articulate Hillary a close second. Barack did not come across as authentic or transparent – just slippery.

Forget Barack! Hillary and John 08

Our country is not run by Republicans or Democrats but by the corporations who make the largest donations to the politicians in office. I have heard that Hilary Clinton sat on the board of Wal-Mart and her daughter works for a hedge fund. Barak Obama says Reagan was a great president, even though Reagan was the president who said "ketchup was a vegetable" when deciding what kind of food subsidies to give malnourished school children. Neither Clinton or Obama have any experience standing up to special interests – the lending agencies, and oil & drug companies who have Washington politicians in a financial choke-hold.
I hope John Edwards will know that many people like myself are praying that he will feel our support and our belief that he is our best hope against the last 7 years of Bush's reign of terror and corruption. He was my 1st choice in the 2004 primary, and he's my 1st choice on Feb. 5, 2008!

Hillary Clinton was TERRIBLE tonight. Obama exposed her ridiculous lies. I seriously can't stand this woman. I would vote for nearly any Democrat over any Republican but if Hillary is the democratic nominee I will vote republican. I swear it I really will.

You can’t compromise with the Republicans. They maintain their base by divided government. Obama comes from a overwhelmingly democratic state. Compromise comes easy when you have the vote on issues, no matter how difficult. You need some one that will fight for the party and try to change the Reagan legacy that has made the middle class pay the nation’s debt.

I nver voted before but I am inspired by Obama to vote this year. If Clinton wins I will not vote for anyone. I just can not forget that former President Clinton while in the white house was full of lies. He lied about having sex and he lied about doing drugs. As for him being refered to as the first black president I speaking as a black man am deeply bother by this comment. I feel that we should hear more from Hillary than Bill. I to agree Bill shut up.

I would like someone to ask all of the Presidential candidates what type of legislation they would pass that would support the Working Middle Class of America! American companies are being sold or moved to other countries every day and no one is doing anything about it! My brother and sister-in-law have bachelors and masters degrees in engineering and will never find a job like my Dad, who was also an engineer, and worked at Goodyear for 35 years! In fact, they have been laid off from so many jobs over the past few years I cannot even count them! To make it worse, American Manufacturing Companies are building plants in other countries to hire cheaper labor with fewer ecological restrictions just to make more money….or is it just to stay afloat! I would like to see some penalties created and enforced that restrict companies like Little Tykes from moving plants to Mexico where they are hiring Mexican workers to do the same job for much less without having to pay any medical fees and no taxes charged to ship the products back to America to sell! Pretty soon we won't have jobs to sustain any purchasing power at this rate! The problem of illegal immigrants will resolve itself….they will move back to Mexico where they can get a job! The other big problem is many Americans are trying to "live green" and companies have to follow guidelines to keep our lakes and rivers clean, but those same guidelines do not even exist in places like Mexico…they just dump wastes where they feel like it….don't think we will reap the results of that either! So much for anything we are doing to keep our food and water supplies clean, let alone possible long-term effects on global warming. Unfortunately most people will vote for the Presidential candidate they like the best, and not even look at their credentials. Guess most people get surgery done by a surgeon and don't really care how they do it as long as they get it done. As a nurse, I wouldn't do that….make sure you ask good questions and pick the right person for the job! This question I have posed above is one I would like answered and have not heard answered yet!

It really amazes me how we almost always nominate and elect those who lie and distort most effectively, at least in my lifetime (I'm 55). It saddens me that Obama must defend himself against the Billary distortions of his record and their spin to things he might say, like the Reagan comment. These Billary distortions lower the level of dialogue and make them both look bad. Like Obama said, some people will say ANYTHING to get elected, Hillary is one of them!!! These tactics worked for GW v. Kerry and will most likely work for Hill. I hope the American people will WAKE UP and put an HONEST man in the White House.

I thought Edwards was the most effective tonight as he was above the Clinton/Obama fray and was on message. Though he has no chance at the nomination, I hope he stays in the race and picks up enough delegates to make him king/queen-maker at the convention, I see him as more in agreement with Obama than Hillary on most issues.

To those that think that Clinton has the best chance against the Republican nominee; I have voted for the Democrat in every presidential race since '72 and would most likely vote for McCain if Clinton is the nominee. Though I strongly disagree with his hawkish stance on the Middle East, he is moderate on many issues and is HONEST. Honesty in government is the #1 issue in my mind, I know, I certainly know that I'm a dreamer.

I ask for ALL of us to do the following:
1. CHECK THE POLLS – THEY ALL SHOW JOHN EDWARDS BEATS ALL OF THE GOP IN THE 2008 GE. (HRC & BHO lose to McCain & Huckabee in OH/FL!)
2. Check his well-considered policy proposals – they deserve to be NATIONAL policy.
3. Check your gut & head, then vote for GENUINE, SYSTEMIC CHANGE!
4. NOMINATE & ELECT PRESIDENT JOHN REID EDWARDS W/ Sen. Barack Hussein Obama as VEEP!!!!
AN AWE-INSPIRINGLY UNBEATABLE TEAM – Dems will increase/solidify their Congressional power!!!!!! The Reagan Devolution will be dead AT LAST!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Quick question to all you Hillary people. She claims that she has 35 years experience in politics. Hasn't she only been a Senator for the last eight years? Where's the other 23 years or does being married to the former President and his political career count also? Please help me understand this better. I'm from Illinois and that's not a automatic vote for Obama. So please enlighten me.

Having the experience to successfully meet the challenges facing our country is one thing. Having the resolve to use that experience to meet those challenges is something else. Any experienced politician can don a "CHANGE" mask while providing lip service to an electorate demanding change, then sit out their poltical victory maintaining static status quo policies and practices.

We need to remeber that fifteen years of "experience" placed our country in peril to both foriegn and domestic threats; orchestrated disasterous engagements in Somolia and Iraq; undermined our military operation in Afganistan; sacrificed thousands of brave, irreplaceable, men and women in these combine operations; miscalculated the role of government regarding Hurricane Katrina, the healthcare crisis, product safety, the financial crisis; and the surge in fuel costs. PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! NO MORE "EXPERIENCE"! We need fresh faces and fresh ideas! We don't need a flight attendant, we need a pilot… someone who will fly us out this mess.

PAGING MR. OBAMA! PAGING MR OBAMA! WE NEED YOU!!

I was very much a supporter of Barack Obama. As a 31 year old Mexican American I thought I was ready for African American President. But after watching the debates this evening, I was very disappointment at the interaction between Senator Clinton and Senator Obama. Senator Edwards was not interested in taking part in the he said/she said pettiness but was interested in discussing what mattered and issues needed to be addressed now. Senator Edwards has a very realistic plan to end poverty, how to end the war in Iraq and a real, humane plan about immigration. It is reassuring to know that there is at least one political leader that sees us Mexicans as people looking for a better future rather than being disposable nationality wanting a free ride on the dime of the government. So I want to thank Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama for their bad behavior, because I am sure I am not the only one whose vote will be converted John Edwards vote.

CNN has made a mockery of the presidential election process. The debate was not a debate; it was very close to the Jerry Springer show. Rather than moderate issues for which Americans want to understand the position of a canditate and either accept or reject the position, CNN has chosen to produce and present an entertainment venue. It is absolutely sickening to sit and watch the making of a mockery in the most important process for which the fabric of democracy is dependant upon. How can Americans make an evaluative decision in the selection of a leader that will lead this Nation out of its current state of disability. I for one, want to hear HOW a broken America will be fixed. I want to hear kitchen table talk and not watch a sports event! And CNN, leave race out of politics — this is a political race, not an issue about race. It is obvious by the successful wining records of Barack and Hillary who are primarily pitted against white males that Americans are not concerned about race and/or gender. Give us a break!

Robert Dalton,I guess you are one of the spin doctors for the Clintons.If you listened to the debate he made it clear he did 5HOURS of work for a church who worked in hand with your so called slum lord for projects of benefit to the community.Find out how long Hilary work for walmart.Also find out how many times she also voted present within a period of 2-3 months.Please give us a break! America is tired of your kind of politics!

Save your money
You don't need anymore primaries or a Presidential Election.
Hillary and Obama's bickering just gave the Presidency to who ever the Republicans nominate for President no matter how competent or incompetent he may be.
You better be prepared to stay in IRAQ for the next 100 years.
It doesn't matter who won this debate because they just handed the Whitehouse to the Republicans.

Discussed.

Dear nieve listerners/readers; Edwards did well BECAUSE that was the Clinton game plan for this debate– very simple:
Attack Obama, so that he LOOKS MORE and MORE LIKE ME (thinks Hillary); the nation will come to hate him as they hate me (Hillary knows well); and I will later point to the whole WORLD that Obama is not a UNITER, as he has been preaching (thinks Hillary). Yes, another factual attack. Why is it that a man is NEVER allowed to defend himself, after all false rumors are out there about him?

The very fact that most (nieve) people are now saying that Edwards won the debate goes to show HOW HILLARY knows how to manipulate people, like you..

It took my wife to confirm this observation to me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

obama needs to get some substance behind his own policies, it almost seemed like he came unprepared for some of the obvious questions.

#100 present votes
How is Chicago's legislative process different?

#Slumlord
Only billed 5 hours, is that the best you can do?

#Universal Health Care
Why is everyone not covered? Explain.

All you have to do, Mr. President is come prepared. I think the election is for Hillary to win and for you to lose.

Definitely the un-BUSH. While I thought that Obama could have done better in the debate, the fact remains that HIllary, while I like many of her policies and positions, will not be in a position to enact much real change if elected. Too many people hate her, whether rational or not. This debate did nothing to change any of that. It may not be fair, but it is reality.

Even if she manages to win the general election, she won't have any coattails to effectively have a legislative mandate. Instead, 50.001% of the vote means no real change and a divided Congress unable/unwilling to consider any bold new vision for the country. We need real change – which we won't get with Clinton. Go Obama!

Well it is certainly depressing to see that most of the females in this forum are supporting Hillary as if marching in lock step to some feminist mantra. I have waited decades for a women to be president, but even I know enough to understand that she is NOT that women. If Bill is unable to be controlled during the nominating process it is quite clear that he will run wild during a presidency and I was hoping the first woman to be president would be able to stand on her own. Shame on Hillary for resorting to these desperate tactics – I am ashamed of her.

I saw a new side to John Edwards tonight I really enjoyed-brilliant. After the debate there was a hush-hush meeting between Clinton and Edwards in Edward's room backstage—-oh man would I just love a Clinton/Edwards ticket to the White House. The economy, health care for everyone, military out of Iraq, people get to keep their houses-and best of all–Obama out of the picture and sent back to his nagging wife and kids. The whole argument started at tonight's debate with the "Walmart" bullet to the head of Clinton–ouch–I would have fought back too Hillary–and thanks for ganging up John.

It amuses me to see people criticize Edwards for saying the same things over and over….it's because THOSE THINGS ARE STILL HUGE ISSUES! The economic gap continues to grow, the government continues to look the other way as so many Americans suffer from little or no healthcare, a dreadful minimum wage (which is not livable by any means), skyrocketing college costs, a housing market in the toilet, and the list goes on and on. Edwards is still standing for those who do not have the money or pull to make things happen like they should. He is the only candidate not taking corporate money, nor using any of his own money. He is tough, intelligent and progressive. He is imminently MORE electable than either of the other two front-runners (and they are only front-runners due to the inordinate amount of free publicity and media attention). I don't say he's more electable because of race or gender but because of the traits of the other candidates — i.e. INEXPERIENCE (face it Obama never sounds like he knows what he's talking about) and DIVISIVENESS (Hillary is THE most polarizing political person I can ever recall seeing). If America REALLY wants to move in the right direction, it's EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT!!

I think you hit the nail on the head with the anti vs. un-bush analogy. The word "anti" alone is negative and I'm personally sick and tired of the negativity that has consumed politics and Washington. Enough of the republican vs democrat bickering. I agree with Obama that it's time we work together.

I'm not a Hilary fan, but kudos to her for getting to the crux about Obama, which is, where's the beef? That was shown tonight. I've been trying to figure out what the big deal is about Obama so I watched, waiting to be impressed. Instead he seemed hateful to Clinton and condenscending to Edwards. Clinton and Edwards pulled back the curtain to reveal there's not much about Obama except ego.

I'm still going Edwards, but Hilary is now my second choice. If she gets the nomination I'll work for her ticket. But I don't think I can get behind Obama. Mean and arrogant is just not inspiring.

Yvonne Ward, Washington State

The Clintons' campaign strategy reminds us of George Bush's style in 1992 presidential election, in which the elder Bush portrayed Gov. Clinton as inexperienced in foreign policy by mercilessly using the then Governor's draft dodging record during the Vietnam War.

Former President Clinton is employing the same tactics to undo Sen. Obama of his capacity to inspiringly lead a divided country, which image abroad was ruined by the incumbent White House leadership.

I agree with Rep. Clyburn's comment to Bill Clinton to watch his mouth and let everyone in the party to decide who's the best of them who can bring back America to what it's lost almost eight years ago.

It's about time to restore the disintegrating glory of the United States of America.

Hillary is the only candidate with enough experience to get things done in government. Sen. Obama's arrogance and lightweight resume turns me off. He really thinks it is so easy to get Republicans and Dems to work together I fully expect, in his naivete, he will have everyone come to the table, hold hands and start singing "Kumbaya". Sen. Edwards is smart and tough and really cares about ordinary Americans. Hillary has the Presidential stature to stand up to the generals, special interests, China and whatever or whoever else comes our way.
Obama doesn't have a clue. He keeps making this a race about race – is that all that distinguishes him from Hillary or John Edwards? There is no way I, a lifelong Democrat will vote for a person that doesn't even realize he does not have the skills to do the job. Heck, neither did George Bush. And look where that has gotten us.

Hillary as President with either Obama or Edwards as V.P. would please me. We need to have experience, dignity and integrity gracing the white house again!

The more I see of Hillary and Obama together, the more interesting Edwards starts to look. Hillary and Obama better be careful not to spill so much blood in the primaries they actually look like Bush going into the General Elections.

Seems the Democrats, like the Palestinians, may once again show they have that unique ability to, against all odds, snatch defeat from the jaws of victory…

Billary is not what this country needs! Obama all the way….he only can bring true change…besides do you want 20 years of bush/clinton- what has America come to if that happens

how can you be the first independent woman president of America, if your husband has to hand hold you all the way to the white house?

HILLARY '08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

What else can you say!

Edwards pretends to be taking the ethical high road (in regarding campaign financing), but in the debate after Obama explained why he voted "Present" in the Illinois legislature (to indicate he would vote for the bill – if certain objectionable items were taken out), Edwards ignored his explanation and kept hammering away as if "Present" were an evasion, rather than the vote of someone principled enough not to vote in "Yes" before some objectionable features were removed. Isn't this an example of dirty politics on Edwards part? Just like Edwards inauthentic answer when asked in another debate when asked what his weakness would is, he gave that phony – I feel too much of your pain answer. Obama is everything we could want in a president – intelligent, a good fighter, authentic, inclusive, doesn't fight dirty but will respond rather than pull a "John Kerry" and lose an election because he can't hit back hard enough. If I had money, I'd pour it in the Obama campaign. This man is a find!

Obama is an arrogant, empty, sniveling baby. In these things he resembles strongly GW Bush … whose name I can't even type without needing to take a shower afterwards. One thing we should all agree on is that we do not want another person in the White House that has the same personal characteristics as Bush. That is exactly what has put our country to shame and has brought us to our knees.

I can't state all my reasons here but my personal choice is Edwards because obviously he has shown himself in this debate and others to be the more focused on the important issues rather than himself. But if Edwards doesn't win I say that Hillary rises far far above the childish Obama. The more I hear from Hillary, the more I like her and would be happy to see her win.

Seattle, Washington

Kucinich isn't even allowed in the debates. That's sad, considering he's a good man and has some good ideas. Chuck Norris gets more media attention than he does.

Edwards is my man.

Hilary is too "establishment"…..too much for companies. She was on the board of directors at Wal-Mart years ago. Considering the way they run things, no thanks! I think she'll end up being repugnantan-lite.

I'd like Obama over Hilary, but he's not exactly wowing me either. He shot onto the map because he gave a good speech at the DNC. Is that proving enough to run a country? I know he's got some charisma, some "rock star." That's why young people like him (lots of young people at my caucus site in Iowa). He abstained from voting too much for my liking. I like someone who'll take a stand like Kucinich or Russ Feingold. Of course they're unelectable because they're LIBERAL (what a dirty word that is).

So, yeah, Edwards is my man. He's a good man who cares about the real people in this country. He's not taking PAC money. He's not bought and paid for. He's been marginalized from the start because of repugnantan slime like: 1) He got a $400 haircut, and 2) He says there's two Americas, yet he's rich. First off, he paid for the haircut himself. Who cares how much it cost? Laura Bush got a $700 hairdo at our expense. Dick Cheney has two top-flight cardiologists by his side 24/7/365. Do you know how much that costs us?? Where's the outrage over that? Second, there ARE two Americas. There are people who work full-time (and more) for less than $30,000 per year and struggle to get by -THEN- There are people with six and seven-figure incomes get tax breaks (Read the book "Free Lunch" by David Cay Johnston). Since Edwards is rich, he can't care about the poor? Tell that to F.D.R.

Lastly, any candidate not talking about health care for everyone should be ignored from the start. It's ridiculous how much $$ is wasted by and given to private insurers. Medicare, while it has it's problem, is a MUCH more efficient and cost-effective means of providing health care.

What exactly does the "unbush' do to unify the polarized parties and subparties? Ban abortions because the right to lifers don't like it? Hand out assault weapons to second amendment nuts? Let the neocons go around bombing any small country that they've decided is a threat? Is this Obama's "fix "of the system? Obama's call for unification is ludicrous on every level, which is likely why he refuses to provide any indication of how he plans to achieve this harmonious change. Like it or not, Clinton is the compromise candidate. She has proved this with over seven years of bipartisonship in the senate. I keep reading comments about her divisiveness, and wonder where these people have been since 2000.

The questions about the numerous times Obama has called "present" rather than "yes" or "no" to senate votes represent valid concerns. For him to try to brush Clinton's questions on the subject off as political smear was deceptive and misleading. This is a germane issue, as Edwards indicated when he followed up. And Edwards got the same non-answer Obama has been feeding to the public — "don't worry about it. You know I'd never miss an important vote." That is neither an explanation nor a reasonable defense.

And, excuse me, but as someone who has been following this electoral race very closely, it appears to me that Bill Clinton is the only person in America who is holding Obama accountable for his words and actions. The mainstream media and the beltway pundits certainly are not. Rather than whine that he is being picked on, and his comments misunderstood, Obama should explain exactly what he meant — because he has said the things that Bill Clinton has accused him of saying. I've heard Obama make many of these comments myself.

On a more positive note — I am more and more impressed with Edwards. I'm beginning to agree with the posters who are saying that a Clinton/Edwards ticket might be just what we need.

I am a registered democrat and a Hillary-supporter.

Tonight proved one thing and one thing only: The Next President of THE UNITED STATES will be whoever the republicans pick as their nominee.

All are candidates that have their strengths.

I admire and respect the character, charisma, and political courage of Barack Obama. He has a solid plan for this country, a tremendous intellect, and visionary leadership qualities. This country needs big change…. not just a change of party. The world is counting on it.

His is a vision for change that I embrace. The time is right. Obama '08

In order, my taxes would go up the most under Obama, followed by Edwards and least amount under Hillary. For those of you who think Hillary's experience is equivalent to some of the more recent first ladies, please read her Hillary's resume and compare. This debate demonstrated how little we understand state level politics–per Obama's explanation of his "present" vote specifically on the child sex law he sponsored. Gotta give him credit. He might have won some points in battle, but as for the war, Hillary knows more about foreign policy and the economy than Obama. Edwards came out looking incredible because he was juxtaposed with the back -n-forth of Clinton and Obama. Edwards also made some terrific comments. Nevertheless, I don't think on the national level he can defeat any republican candidate…maybe except Huckabee. The republicans have decided to hate Hillary for no other reason than misogyny. Simply put, they collectively did not appreciate that Bill Clinton appointed her to oversee development/preparation of a new health care plan and used her status as first lady to tear it down. Since then, she's been despised for no other reason. BTW, if Karl Rove isn't the "Right Wing Conspiracy" incarnate, then who is?

Where is the voice on the critical issue of Global Warming? Why haven't we heard from All these progressives on this issue?

JOHN EDWARDS ROCKS!!!

HE IS THE ONLY CONSISTENT CANDIDATE. Excellent Debate tonight John. I like the continued patience and control of your demeanor.

What you are saying really hits a cord with me. I agree with Universal Health Coverage. I just can't believe that Democrats are voting for the same old same old. I live in South Dakota, where it is heavily republican base.

I have switched to a Democrat becuase I am not happy with the last eight years and the Iraq WAR!! I am a veteran. Also, I see a workforce getting smaller…yet the taxes are increasing in order to pay for the health coverage costs. Also, people can't afford health insurance. So higher numbers going to ER and this is putting hospitals in the red. This is a nast cycle. I think that even the wealthier would agree that Health Care Coverage is needed for everyone.

What about a sales tax which all 300 million americans would be paying into when they purchase something. Even the illegal aliens and tourist would be paying into the system. Then remove premium payments from Workers Paychecks. The Sales Tax might provide more money to support the huge Universal Coverage Plan. The VA System is a good example….just never had a good funding of it…Appropriations. What about similiar system funded by the sales tax.
Thanks. Ed

Edwards won the debate, but it probably won't do much to help him win South Carolina or the nomination. He's just missing the "it" factor. Bad night for Obama and Clinton. They threw mud and then wrestled in it. I feel for Obama having to deal with both Hillary and Bill but I wouldn't feel so bad for McCain if he were getting double-teamed by them. That's a powerful weapon for dems to have and we might want it in the general. But, Hillary or Obama, it really doesn't matter who gets the nomination. We'll probably win either way. They both have their strengths. Dems ought to just chill out and be happy with either option.

since we the people are supposed to look at the issues not the race thing ,I did and there is no way obama is ready to lead any nation, I've watched every debate and still have NO idea what he is doing.I have yet to hear him give any answers to any question ,and I am so tired of his arrogance, I watched the news after the debate?????? what in the world is cnn doing,I had to turn it off,My vote is for anybody but obama.

I'm glad Obama showed some teeth during the debate. Having to take on a tag team of Clintons where one is able to stick to and talk to the issues and while husband dearest plays 'pit bull' consistently attacks Obama is unfair.

Obama has been moree than generous and more than kind, but as in so many cases there are always those folks who take your kindness for weakness.

Obama had to take a firm stand against the Clinton machine and the status quo to let people know he is no shrinking violet, to clearly demonstrate that he is not afraid of the fight at hand and that he further has the ability to aggressively defend his position.

Unfortunately the backlash may be that he plays into the stereotype of the 'big, angry black man' that unfortunately threatens the mainstream. It's precisely the persona that the Clintons have been trying to get him to take on to no avail. I'm glad he took a calculated risk to defend himself and his campaign. Let the people decide and let the chips fall where they may.

Trust me Barack won't cry if he loses the nomination, he'll be glad that he answered when opportunity knocked and be proud that he did his very best. I don't think either of the other 2 candiates will respond the same when he wins; )

Edwards is right about democrats needing to do well in the South. He is the candidate that can deliver in the areas that democrats need to win. I thought he won the debate overall and liked the way he distinguished himself on Trade issues and on Campaign finance, but I favor Edwards positions and so I'm a bit biased,…. but he did seem to have a bit more passion i thought than the others and seemed to higthlight policy differences rather than trust and leadership issues. I see Obama and Clinton as basically establishment candidates and the true outsider is Edwards and not Obama.

Actually Marcus makes a good point…lets take a further look into the Clinton record and their "Friends" and what became of them. I'd feel safer electing Capone to office.

300 million Americans and these 3 are the best the Democrats can offer up to be president? Time to get ourselves a new second party the Democrats are well on their way to becoming the Whig party. Ancient history.

How does Obama know he can work with republicans … they may not choose to work with him … he is so naive … and inexperienced … and it shows.

The MSM continues to not take Edwards seriously, much to their shame.
They seem in such a hurry to make it into a "mano a mano smackdown".
This is a serious person with serious ideas that go way beyond this vague window dressing that the others are lobbing up.
We have a unique opportunity to REALLY make a difference.
Hopefully, Edwards can continue to stay viable and his message will take hold…
I'll be voting for him this Saturday!

Reagan, People Reagan was for the rich. What I remember of Reagan is breaking up the unions. Unions that help the working class keep their jobs and got them healthcare. Better healthcare and rise in their paid checks.

Let not forget the tax rise on the middle class and the poor.

Then there is the Clint's the way he left the White House. Wasn't a year after he left office that 9 11 happen it could of been him in office then Bush. It could of been him who cause it. We don't know. Then Bush had to fix the mess. We need not to look back at our Predsident's we need a change.

We need a new change. Someone that is for the working class that is been in our shoes. I don't know who that is yet. I am looking still.

But I know that isn't Hillary and Bill. I don't want someone like Reagan.
Hillary sound great but her husband did not do what he said he would.

The rich keep getting richer. The rich get the breaks. We need someone for the middle class and poor. If this keeps up there will be no middle class.

Let not forget we want the war to get who hurt our people on 9 11 . 9 11 came here. If we didn't fight. the war would of been in Amercian. We are still fight it here. Stop them from doing another 9 11.

Yes we are hurting but it isn't President Bush. But 9 11 that has hurt us the hit in Fla, Mississippi, New Lousis, which is from nature.
He does need to think of the middle class and poor not the rich in the taxes.

What I am saying people take a good look. These people that are running are our Sentors. What are they doing now!!!

I think tonight was definitive in why I WILL NOT vote for Obama. He proved he is a pretty face in an empty suit. He was unable to articulate why he should be considered a "change" agent. His votes of PRESENT while in the Illinois legislature proves that he is a coward unwilling to take stands. I have concluded tonight that on February 5th I will vote in California for the one candidate willing to stand up for us all, HILLARY CLINTON.

HILLARY in '08

I just want to say that I think that the Clintons have a wonderful political history. I would vote for Hillary Clinton in a heartbeat if she wins the democratic nomination.

With that said, I think that anyone, Hillary included, who accuses Obama of being a flip flopper clear has problems comprehending and should seek help to make sure they don't have ADHD!!! See politics are not simply a black and white thing. Its not a Red and Blue thing. Obama seems to be the only one on the stage that realizes this. Hillary either does not understand or comprehend what he has said about Healthcare and Reagan, or is twisting his words for her own political gain. Heck even my son's 10 year old friend was able to accurately explain what Obama was saying? This is insane. Another thing that ticks me off is that Hillary and Edwards seem think that America is dumb and they will buy into this word twisting game.

Politics is a grey rea. Obama has explained his position. He realizes that you can't change a system overnight without creating chaos. Hillary and Edwards made some excellent points tonight and Obama was wrong a few times, but that still does not change the fact that Obama is being wrongfully attacked simply because they are scared he might actually (GASP!) change something!!!1

The democrats are at it again, all their fighting is just giving ammunition for the general election to the Republicans.

The republican ticket: John McCain/Condeleeza Rice

That way they can upstage both the woman/black ticket big time.

Be careful how you make your choices SC. We are watching you guys from Africa.
This is not about race or gender but rather competecnce, willingness and experience. From what I saw in tonights debate, there is no way Obama will be able to lead the US. I would go for Hillary.

She was able to respond fully to the questions though she was lulled into argument with Obama which does not augur well for their party.

Edwards is kind of playing a the under-dog only to secure a vice-presidential nomination. Lets see how things unfold.
Go Hillary.

I support Hillary, but must I admit that Edwards won this debate by a landslide! I have been wondering, what is going on with Obama's stuttering problem?

Obama may not be the greatest debater, but he is the best candidate. Put your self in his position of defending his record against the Bill and Hillary machine. Imagine if she wins, what a mess that could be…The President of the United States sleeping with another President. Think about Billy boy's past record in the big White House and if you think Washington is messed up now, you haven't seen anything yet.

My criticisms of Obama's legislative record have apparently been excluded by the moderator. I have posted 3 times in the last hour, and my posts still say: "Your comment is awaiting moderation" while later-time-stamped posts continue to appear. (I have refreshed my screen several times.) I suspect this post will appear. Unfortunately, it contains no political content — unless you would care to discuss the heavy-handed lengths to which the media will go to effect political outcomes in the 2008 elections.

Edwards supporter, check out that other ticker, Edwards and Clinton has secret meeting and it is confirmed. As McCain say about Romney (I believe you are truly a change candidate) The same goes for Edwards.

Edwards will not side with Obama. This is a fact.

Am I the only one who wonders if Hillary can't control Bill's mouth during this campaign, how she'll be able to do it once in the White House???

Run Obama Run!!!

Great performance
GO Obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Edwards was AWESOME! If this debate doesn't give his campaign the shot in the arm he so deserves, I don't know what the American voters are thinking.

John was presidential, informative, sharp, intense and above all the WINNER.

He has a plan and I'm SO glad that he stood his ground and ran circles around the two fighters in the ring.

What a debate! America needs Edwards more than ever.

After observing our democrats, I will definitely vote for McCain.

I have lived through so many elections, and I have never seen so much nastiness in my life. Oboma sits back and smiles and lets the biased press do his dirty work because they love him. He is a dreamer living a fairytale if he thinks he can run a country and work with congress with his hurt feelings always on his sleeve. I am also offended by his preacher voice when he gives his speaches. His I have a dream is so irritating. I believed Martin Luther King when he said it, but his dream was for real. Obama never discusses his senate history. Lets see the facts on paper. I cant imagine how black Americans can turn on a word taken out of context. The Clintons worked hard for the rights of every citizen. America was moving forward with its economy and people had jobs. Lets not forget that. If you let the press elect the president we deserve GW Bush for 8 MORE years. Read and study what people actually say! Dont let the media tell you! Every president has made mistakes, and some have had to pay the price. But remember they have also done good things. Clinton had to work with a republican congress so he had to work hard to get things done. I didnt agree with everything he did, and what he promoted, but more good then bad was done during his presidency.

Go Barack '08

Robert Dalton,
I'm form Texas! Wasn't born here but I got here as fast as I could!
Let's remember that Obama was an Attorney during his "support" of that slum lord! He was doing his job!…which he did quit remember. I'm a Physician and my sister is a Lawyer, she and I both say "every one hates us and our high fees until the need us". Though I don't condone slum loards, I don't fault them for the entire problem. People have a right to live where they please…if you don't like the apartment, move out! The way some people think, people who live under bridges should file litigation against the city for poor living conditions.

An amazing debate by Edwards. He rose above all the bickering and had one of the best debate performances I've seen yet since all this campaigning started.

I was leaning to another candidate, but now I'm firmly for Edwards.

Obama is trying to hurt Hillary, and is losing focus on the key issues because of it.
If this is what he does, then I do not want him in the White House.
I want a candidate who will tell me what he or she will do to make this country better, and not play dirty for his own cause.
Red flags go up around Obama every time he speaks.
He needs to stop this garbage fast.
Better Hillary than him.

George Vreeland Hill

I would only vote for Hillary over Romney, otherwise I'm going Republican is she gets the nod.

I agree with Hillary and Edwards that Barack's health care won't cover everybody if it is not mandated, but I don't think that we can realistically afford either of their plans. Our Medicare/Medicaid obligations are already threatening to bury us in the coming years. His plan seems to be attacking the cost of health care, which seems like the most pressing issue at the moment.

I have lost a lot of respect for both Clintons during this run. I know that as Hillary's husband he needs to support her, but he is also the former President of the United States from the Democratic party and he is destroying the party. That is why the generic ballot keeps sliding closer to even.

I like Obama's character and his ideas and values. I think he is by far the best candidate to give a new face to America. I am concerned by his youth and that is why I am still undecided.

Right now I'm simply on the anybody but Romney train.

To Julia Greer:
Don't be disheartened by the debates or the political process. You should be proud that you voted for Edwards in the FL primary because I was impressed with him and I thought he did a very good job. Obviously I support Obama because he will unite the nation but I don't think Edwards has anything to be ashamed of from the debate. The difference is like you said, the media has written him off so no one is attacking him (like The Clinton Duo is attacking Obama) so he was able to spend more time stating his positions on issues instead of defending himself all night like Obama had to do. I am proud of Obama for standing up to Billary and letting them know they WILL have a fight on their hands if they want to continue these baseless attacks. But as I have read from everyone here (except for a few blind Clinton supporter) the American people can see through the Clinton lies and dirty tricks so it's back firing on them. Encourage everyone who isn't in support of Obama to throw your support behind Edwards. Show the Clintons you want a new type of politics that doesn't include them. If Edwards comes in second again in SC (like he did in Iowa) I think Billarys heads are going to explode!!!

Obama/Edwards 08

Obama's worst moments tonight :

1) When he said, without any prompting: "Wait, I'm serious about this."

What, you're not serious about the rest of it? And you want to be leader of the free world, with a finger on the button?

2) His comment about Bill Clinton having to be a good dancer to prove he's a brother.

A white person could never say that, and I could see that John Edwards didn't care much for it. Also it looked like Obama is just playing around with race. Ha ha, funny.

Is there a reson why obama couldnt answer a question without slamming clinton….this was a very nasty side to our little angel

You people are lame. CNN calls it anti-Bush and un-Bush and you immediately latch onto it. Do any of you have an original thought?

Obama definately has more of a connection with his little slumlord friend then 5 hours of church work! Get real…

Come on now, you have to give it to Edwards, he did good in this debate, but its probably he's the third person and seen as the "good and civil" guy since Hillary and Obama throws mud at each other. And you also have to give to Hillary that she is much better in her performance in this debate. Obama, he stutter quite alot on the first part of the debate, but he did quite well I think on the 2nd part, i gave him that much…. I am Hillary's supporter I can tell you that and seeing her more convince me more that she's the perfect democratic candidate for the white house (AND ITS NOT BECAUSE OF BILL)..

the sad thing is, I see Obama's supporters always see one side of things… the fact is, Hillary did play the negative card towards Obama, but didn't Obama do that early on?? But now you kick Hillary and talk down on her coz she throw mud at Obama, wheres the fairness in that?Where's the change in that?? The other fact is, Obama gave far worse than good in answering his critics made by Hillary or Edwards… He stuttered, he say "I… I… I… I….", and he goes all over to make a point, whether you want to hear that or not, that happened…

And lastly I want to make a point, for pro-Obama-ers, its not about race or you being anti-Hillary for whatever reason and your endless conspiracy theories you have about her (ie Bill is running, she's a liar, New Hampshire and Nevada votes were rigged, she's this she's that)… at the end of the day, we democrats must support whoever running as the Demoncratic candidate in November. I said before that I would vote for Independent or worse, a Republican… but I came to realize Obama's not bad at all. He, Hillary and Edwards have similar policy plan which I believe in, the only difference between you pro-Obama and me is that I strongly believe that Hillary would be the best in delivering that promise and make those policy to reality…… but after this debate, I would hope he's not the winner.. but if he does win, I would vote for him just because I cannot stand to see this country goes down the gutter again by another Republican president who cannot admit the war in Iraq was a mistake, who only see the US economy matters in their campaign just right before Nevada & S. Carolina. So I just want to call all Dems and Independent alike, vote for the Dems candidate you think is best to lead this country and whoever wins, lets just stand together and vote for him or her in November… Stop being a child and play around with this country's future just because of your hatred. Hillary did nothing to you!! I agree we dont owe her anything, I agree she should stop the negative remarks about her fellow Democratic rival (but Obama should too!), but she did nothing to deserve the awful things some people on here say about her. She serves this country just like Obama or any other policiians.

But for the time being, GO HILLARY 2008!!!!! and whether she wins or not, DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR THE WHITE HOUSE IN 2008!!!!!!

Although I will concede that Hilary is a "good debater," I won't concede that she did well tonight. As an active, passionate and liberal progressive, I have been disgusted with what the Clintons have done to the Democratic party in the name of grabbing power.

The Clintons constant attacks, deceptive tactics and negative campaigning are the exact reasons why millions of Democrats and Independents would never vote for her and might prefer to not vote at all versus supporting her. Tonight was just more of the same.

Although Obama may not always speak as eloquently as he does in a speech, his leadership, ideas and positive approach were demonstrated tonight.

I think he proved that he can take it and dish it out. But, he, like Edwards, pointed out that this kind of politics is not helping anyone, yet, Clinton continued.

Edwards did very well tonight as well and, I think, if he could demonstrate strength, knowledge and passion for issues beyond poverty (he speaks to the other issues but seems to always bring it back to poverty), I think he would do better in the elections.

Either way, Obama and Edwards came off much better tonight. Clinton was focused on Super Tuesday and that should anger the voters of South Carolina by ignoring their needs for a political strategy bullet point.

I didn't see much press coverage on this, but, I was taken aback when Hilary was asked, after the Iowa caucuses, why she didn't win and her response was, "well, it's a well known fact that Iowa doesn't pick presidents." All I could think of was, wow, she panders to Iowa for months and, when she doesn't win, she dismisses their constituents as insignificant. Ouch. Speaks volumes to her character.

I was really shocked at obama's stammering and really just generally looking shellshocked. Not a good night for him.

My favorite line of the night was when obama was complaining about the 30% CAP on credit card interest and how he thought that was too high and Edwards chimed in out of the blue……Well you voted for NO cap!!

Its that kind of gafaw that worries me.

Oh an btw I am from Illinois (land of the crooked politition) and when ppl vote present I am sure there is a reason behind it other then just wanting to work on the bill more….then why not vote no?

Hillary is about as appetizing as salt pork. She couldn't tell the truth if it was given to her and her arrogant expressions are pretty much disgusting.

edwards was head and shoulders above the other two. he is the only one who can beat the republicans. the media wants to collect all that ad revenue for clinton and obama and acts like edwards is just an afterthought. he beat clinton in iowa! wake up, america and vote for edwards. he is our ionly chance.

Hillary Clinton should be the Democratic nominee..

but I don't think it will happen, apparently people don't vote with their brains, but rather swept away idealism. I remember another candidate speak about uniting america, about one america, and washington being broken, about only an outsider could fix it, something about compassion.. oh yea that was Bush in 2000…

People who fall for this crap are people who don't pay attention to politics, except on election year, and that barely.

Vote for the person who has EXPERIENCE, we have already suffered by doing just the opposite..

Hillary you Put Obama in his place…..Don't let him push you around. It's time for a Woman to Be PRESIDENT……You Go GIRL

I'll admit that Obama is not good at street fighting. He should leave the low blows and sucker punches to the expert. (She's got 35 years of experience! )

Although there were a few minutes of real policy discussion, unfortunately the Clinton Swiftboat team dominated the debate, as they have totally manipulated the media for the past ten days: Throw mud and then call the press to ask your opponents about why they are so dirty! Throw a red-faced fit for the cameras and use the opportunity to misrepresent your opponents' record – the voters will believe anything they see on TV! Let's make this about race! or gender! or crying! Win at all costs!

What a sad portrait of American political process. Is it any wonder we can't "export American democracy" without sending in troops?

I want to believe that Obama is right — that most Americans are not only fed up with this crap but believe that it doesn't have to be this way. I sure hope he's right.

Seems like Obama got down off his pedestal tonight to duke it out with Hillary. I thought that even though Obama clearly had the home team advantage he looked thin skinned and I thought Hillary got the best of him when he continued to equivocate about what he said earlier about Reagan and the republican party having all the ideas for 15 years. Clearly he was trying to dis Bill Clinton's administration by praising Reagan and the republicans, but his trying to clean it up tonight just seemed to try to change what he had said into something else. I thought his trying to attack Hillary for her votes while not taking responsibility for his own words and votes was also a joke. He is pretending to be somehow above it all but really he's just a politician and tonight he proved it. As for bringing democrats and republicans together, what kind of Pollyanna speak is that. The only thing republicans compromise on is if the democrats give in to their destructive policies both at home and abroad. We do not agree with republicans and there is something to be said for having principles and sticking to them that Obama tries to gloss over. How do you compromise with those who practice the take from the poor and give to the rich, the imperial warring machine stomping over anyone who gets in our way type of foreign policy, etc. Obama is living in a fantasy world and trying to take the democratic party with him. If he wins the nomination the bigots will do to him what they did to Harold Ford and they will never vote for him. Sure it would be great if we could all just sing kumbyah and get along but wishing for it and pretending that republicans would ever compromise when they have already demonstrated their contempt for poor, minorities, or gay people, when they wish to stay in Iraq for 100 years and sacrifice someones young to this failed foreign policy how can we get along with that?

Look, there are people who love Hillary and people who really dislike Hillary. She's not a very uniting figure. If Democrats think that the Republicans will just say "ok, Dems, it's your turn to lead" you're sadly mistaken. They will fight. They are preparing for battle. I don't think Clinton can bring in Republican voters or many independents and that says something about how polarizing she is no matter how good of a candidate she might be.
She also faces the issue of Dems possibly voting for a Republican because they don't want to see someone who seems divisive and would take a chance on someone like McCain. I hope the Dems can see that what we need as a country is to find common ground. People always say, the Clintons. We want a President, not a co-Presidency. Let's remember that Hillary, not Billary is running. I support Obama because when this race is over and if he emerges as the winner, it will be a proud day. He will not do everything on his own and there will exist a new level of transparency in the government. Barack has always been someone who has done what he said he will do and has already proved that he can work with Republicans. Because let's face it, for the government to work, Dems and Reps need to work together. Hillary will not just show up and have absolute power to make all the changes she wants. Let's look at who has the experience at actually making things happen. No 35 years of mostly being a lawyer and then First Lady before finally serving a few years in Congress.

ANY DEMOCRAT WILL BE "UN BUSH" FOR HEAVEN'S SAKE. Hillary has the brain, the determination, and the diplomacy to lead this country. Why anyone wants to be president amazes me, but I will back Hillary to the moon and back. She is a class act – Brilliant. I cannot believe how Chris Matthews hates her so much – I will never watch him again. I know he is isn't CNN.

Thanks.

Democrats, Please do the country a favor and vote Obama. I'm a Republican who will vote for him over most of the jokers we have running on our side. He is refreshing, new and different. It's nice also to see someone stand up to the Clinton machine of dirty politics and put them in their place. No more Bush/Clinton!! Not now, not ever!

I don't understand many of the people commenting saying he's engaging in the mud slinging. He has the right to defend the lies and smears against his name. If he ignored it, you same people would say he's hiding something. Nice catch 22 you've made for him, true Clinton supporters thru n' thru.

I will never vote for Hillary. If it comes down to her and McCain, I'll vote third party or sit it out. I'm done with the DC old timers in politics. They have all had a hand in the mess we are in today! Vote for Change!

One thing is very clear tonight:
John Edwards made a good appearance for himself.
Obama spent so much energy trying to defend himself without success.
Hillary was able to articulate clearly her views and she was able to present her own views.
The media tend to say that Bill overshadowed her but the reality is that she talks and makes her own views very clear.

Up Hillary '08
One thing, I don't agree with the anti-bush and un-bush comments. It is unfair on both candidates.

Dealing with Middle East countries that take a less than favorable view of women culturally, how seriously would they deal with Hillary Clinton as the leader of the United States? Would they even be willing to have a conversation with her? Would they ever view her as credible? Doubtful, and this is our security that would suffer.

I guess she could just have Bill take care of it for her?

To those of you who claim Obama skirted the issues…I challenge you to name a single one. Here's a short recap.

1) He did not like Reagan's policies. He liked that Reagan was a transformative figure.

2) He spent 5 hours on a case that involved a church that was associated with a slum lord.

3) His Health Care policy is not universal because he doesn't believe in mandating it for adults.

4) He voted 'present' on 130 bills while staing that he voted for about 4000 bills. Doing the math, that's about 3%. Not to mention, voting 'present' often meant that there was a bill that he liked, were it not for a certain provision that he would work toward altering.

Again, what issue did he not address?

None of the candidates in the debate tonight presented a planned policy that adequately addresses the problems in the U.S.A. Denying Americans' the right to hear the proposed programs of Dennis Kucinich just shows that big business and corporates and other special interest groups are who really select who our candidates will be, and ultimately who we will be forced to choose from to represent the Democratic party as our candidate for president. We have been denied the right to hear from Representative Dennis Kucinich in several televised debates, the one and only candidate who is willing to demand …

* Immediate withdrawal of all troops from Iraq.
* No war with Iran.
* A national, not-for profit health care system ( a true Universal health care for everyone in the U.S.A., including foreigners that would safeguard the health of all Americans).
* Repeal of the Patriot Act and a restoration of civil liberties.
* The cancellation of NAFTA and the rebuilding of the U.S. auto, steel, aerospace, shipping, and manufacturing industries.
* Carbon-free and nuclear-free energy policies.
…just to name a few of his proposed policies.

There isn't a spit worth of difference in the proposed programs of Obama, Clinton and Edwards, except in their personality. and appearance.
And that leads us to believe that this is just a popularity contest. So why not just create a "Choose Your Presidential Candidate" TV show and every four years have them come on and "perform" and have viewers call in their votes for the most popular and most clever entertainer!
That's basically what we got in 2000 and 2004.

Elections are supposed to be held for the citizens to make their choices. The Media has made our elections a joke!

Obama did what he had to do tonight. He had to defend himself against the deplorable campaign tactics employed by the Clintons. They continually use "political speak" and talking points as a way of campaigning against Obama and his record even though it is more consistent and commendable then Hillary's.

Hillary has taken shots at Obama behind the curtain and Obama called her out on those attacks in a public forum which I really commend him for. Voters may not like it, but he is taking a stand against the "old way" of campaigning and is instead running on truth and a great deal of class amidst all of this negative campaigning. What is he supposed to do? Not stick up for himself? Then all of the Hillary supporters will say he will not be able to take a stand against criticism.

Hillary and Edwards are both extremely polarizing figures, who will not be able to work with Republicans should they be elected. Obama is the right choice to UNIFY this country and change the way we look at politics. Hillary said tonight that politics is not a game, then she should stop playing this campaign like a game.

Moderate please post this there is nothing wrong with it even if you disagree with it.

I say lets see whats happens alot can change from tonite debate till saturday when the SC votes happens. I think John Edwards won the debate but Obama did'nt lose anything nor Clinton why because Hillary knows she may not win SC and John Edwards knows he be last. Hillary and Edwards are gearing up for the super tuesday feb 5 thing.Why Super Tuesday more important than SC because there going to be 24 states voting and we see if Clinton can remain in first and if John Edwards will be able to finally get in second and knock off obama and finally go against Clinton instead of people playing lets get the first women in the whitehouse or the first black president instead we have a person who trying to fight for the real issues.Now its very likely Obama getting in as VP but because of so much heat between him and Clinton dont know if she take him as vp but we see because I think when the nominee is selected we finally unite no matter who the nominee is even if it not obama or clinton or John Edwards but if its one of them.So bottom line is I think Hillary and Edwards know there going to lose SC. But tonite debate when Edwards and Hillary talk they were talking to the national people the other 24 states for there votes.

Everyone complains that the Dems don't have a backbone and when they show some fire everyone complains. Thats pretty sad. I just wonder what you people are expecting in the general election. Do you think the Republicans are going to have sympathy? NO. This is a contest people. Edwards? Already proved to me he couldn't do it in '04. And if Obama needs a senator to tell Mr. Clinton to chill.. Then we might as well throw in the towel right now. This isn't tiddley winks. Clinton/Obama '08. We get Clinton to suppress the Republicans for 8 and we set Obama up for the win. FORCE the Republicans to find themselves.

Edwards is the clear winner tonight despite the Main Stream Medias attempts to always make this race about Hillary and Obama. Whenever John Edwards speaks the issues, he outdoes Hillary and Obama. However, since Hillary and Obama take tons of money from corporate special interests, there are massisve attempts to try and marginalize him. I am very glad John finally had a chance to show the american public what he can do for them if he is elected president.

Any woman planning to go up against the Republican establishment will have to show that she is strong and a fighter. I feel that Hillary only did what she had to do. Obama attacked first, and she fought back. John Kerry was heavily criticized in 2004 for not defending himself or fighting back against attacks.

am I the only one that think's Obama rhetoric, albeit more handsomely dressed, rings something to the effect of, "I'm a uniter, not a divider?"

Are you kidding me?
Hillary (and Bill has been continually) comes out swinging, and FOR ONCE Obama defends himself and the Hillary supporters want to now complain about how he was forced to explain himself, was "rude", etc., yet not 5 weeks ago the same group complained about how he was a doormat, didn't stand up for himself, oh my GOD what would he do the US if he couldn't defend himself!!!?
If anyone was rude tonight….remember that she was boo'ed TWICE (or more?) was Mrs. Clinton. For a portion of the debate, she could not approach a subject without seeking a way to attack Barack Obama, to the point that even my ten year old daughter was taken aback by the utter silliness of it. Let's not forget that not too long ago, when Edwards and Obama went after Clinton like this she cried "Dogpile!" and everyone came to her defense because she was a woman. (I, too, am a woman, so don't think I am not somewhat sympathetic from the beginning…)
I was undecided until this evening's debate. Hillary is…nauseating at best. Edwards…I want to like him SO badly but the schtick is SO tired. I will vote for Obama. If he is not the Democratic option, I will vote for another party. But Hillary Clinton is no longer a person I would be proud to call my President.

I can't STAND the squabbling!

Do Clinton and Obama really think it is going to lead them to the White House?

NOT!

What it says to me is that they are like two first graders who aren't learning to communicate. And if they can't communicate with each other, how in heck will they deal with the world's enormous problems as president?

After Oregon's primaries I am switching for the first time since JFK to Independent. I would do it now but Oregonians are not allowed to vote their hearts in our primaries (sounds illegal, doesn't it?). I can no longer support the Democratic party if they can't act like adults!

Tonight's debate showed America two things:

First being that John Edwards is still very much in this thing, and second being that Barrack Obama is the strongest candidate when under fire, and will be able to handle himself well when going head to head with the Republican nominee this November.

Edwards kept the debate from completely slipping into an unending slug-fest between Clinton and Obama, and he showed his signature southern charm. Unfortunately his ideas are still little more than pipe dreams. (example: committing to pulling all troops out of Iraq in his first 6 months as president.) I think the voters really want these things, as does he, but they are just not realistic, and Americans know this. He will still place third in the primary.

Clinton looked like the big bad witch up there, and Edwards took turns with her tag-teaming Obama for most of the debate. This seemed to work in Obama's favor, showing that the Senator from Illinois has what it takes to hold his own and handle the pressure of hard debating. It also gave Obama the chance to set the record strait and take on some of the Clinton's' criticisms first hand. Something he needed to do.

Tonight's heated exchange between Clinton and Obama further highlights the different visions both have for America. Obama's uncompromising commitment to unite America through inspiration and Clinton's uncompromising vision to get things done through her political experience at the White House and the Senate. Clinton's sharp response to Obama's comments relating to her and Walmart clearly showed she was preparing for such a fight. In contrast, Obama's comments revealed the anger that was always lurking beneath the "I am above personal attacks" persona he had been running on. Ironically, taking the gloves off, so to speak, may have added to his genuineness, although it may have hurt him politically.

The issue for most voters is whether one thinks things can get done through a person's passion and ideas. Obama's message is strong, and rarely fails for its inspiration. However, can those words inspire change in America and its voters? We will have to see.

I don't understand what y'all on here are saying when you say that Edwards hasn't done anything to help the poor? I would challenge any of you to find Obama or Clinton opening up their own center to tackle poverty, which Edwards did with his own money in my hometown, Chapel Hill, NC.

My parents are both Republicans, but Edwards is the only Dem they would swap parties to vote for… this sentiment is all over the south. You people are so close minded when you vote for HIllary or Obama.. If you really want to take back the White House and out of the hands of those Republicans, we'd have Edwards as our nominee. It's the no it all out of touch personality you people from the rest of this country demonstrate. You need to appreciate the south and realize we're not going to win with Obama or Clinton.

dear ABC
PLEASE remember that it was BILL and NOT Hillary that had an affair. She kept her family together-something for which any other woman would have been praised. Besides, the issues at hand have nothing to do with Bill Clinton's sex life-move on!
Clinton/Edwards 08!

Obama / Ewarwds next President vice President ' Republican fed up with Republicans ! "

One day you'll stop moderating my comments CNN. Why don't they ever get through? Just tell me because nothing I ever write is derogatory, so clearly you're favoring a specific candidate. If that's the case just be honest and tell me so I'm not left in confusion.

I just read CNN’s analysis of the debate from the so-called “experts” – Mark Halperin and Joe Johns. Why are you so blind to believe that Obama won the debate? Is this what you call objective journalism? Could you give a more honest-to-goodness assessment without your blinders?

Its pretty simple really ; Obama will reach across the aisle and get something done for the American people.

Clinton is just like George Bush EXACTLY.

Edwards did a better job tonight , but the best he can hope for is a VP ticket.

We really enjoyed the debate. It is good to see the Democrats going after McCain now, and not just themselves. So sry Sen Obama and Edwards, but Hillary will win the nomination and become our President. She has a good handle on the ways to reform health care, bring home our troops (safely) and pay the bills. Obama could care less about the expenses, but is simply trying to compile enough votes to win one state. John Edwards would make a great VP
on Hillary's Ticket.

Trust me people….A hillary clinton white house will get nothing done. She can't work with republicans because as you've heard tonight, she's been in battle with them for 14 years. Its hers and bill's fight against the republicans that's being displayed and they want to stick it to em. They want the white house so they can control the power, and be able to tell republicans what to do, not really a good strategy towards uniting the country, and congress. Is it? We need someone who can work with the right as well as the left and get things done. Like donald trump said,"we need to make deals", its one thing to be on camera talking about what your gonna do, but its another thing to get it done. its one thing to have talks with important leaders around the world, but its another thing to talk and get something accomplished. Hillary is not that person. History is our teacher, and by looking at hillarys past, it doesn't look like she can unite anyone. This debate has turned into a mockery. Its all about race and gender when it should be about choosing the best leader to led us and reestablish our good name to the world. What this tells me is that we're a dying nation and it starts with our stupidity to allow this type of politics to influence our judgement. We need to vote sensibly,and cautiously and if we do that then it is my hope that hillary would not be our candidate.

Bottom line is OBAMA needs more experience! He is not ready yet, give him 4 or 8 yrs and he will be ready! Hillary whether she is part of the system for a long time, is ready and prepared to take on the role as the president! I would rather have her as a president, at least she knows what to do on Day 1!!!

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CLINTON= been there, DONE THAT

give obama a chance.

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I respect John Edwards but it's easy to stay above the fray when you're third and behind. Yes, he probably won tonite's debate because he avoided the bickering and didn't have to answer misleading charges from the Clintons. If Edwards had Obama's delegates and poll numbers, he'd be fighting against the Clinton tag-team. I'm glad Obama fought back even though it appears against his nature. Edwards has a strong message which all of us Democrats support and I would support him over Hillary but I feel we need to move in a new direction. Obama!

This is unfair. Barack is always trying to defend himself. Look at Hillary, she is just going after him. Without Obama, she would have nothing to say. All she is doing is make enemies. Is that what America needs? She is not fighting with Edwards because she thinks he is not much of her opponent. She is just trying to be a politician. If Barack keeps quiet, everyone will say he did it. The Reagan thing, everyone knows what he mean't. If he was a Reagan supporter, he would be a Republican period….

I think tonight's debate showed if you want slime, mud-slinging, and underhanded politics vote for a Clinton. What Obama showed is that he is no John Kerry – who didn't respond to the mud-slingers who slimed his Vietnam record – rather Obama can hit back hard when the slime mongers lay it on. Obama took the heat from both Clinton and Edwards and clearheadedly responded in a thinking way that set the record straight. Under this kind of pressure how many politicians could have performed as well? This man is exceptional. Is the electorate smart enough to see it?

Thanks, o great CNN, for allowing John Edwards to stay in the debates. Please. This is so un-American. Wake up South Carolina! Vote Edwards!

Hillary won the debate tonight! Obama stammered and studdered and gave his long winded "preacher speech" as usual. He did NOT answer any questions directly, he avoided them at every turn! Just like when Hillary brought up his voting record in Illinois, instead answering why he voted "present" over 100 times, he immediately jumped to defend a bill he had voted on…that wasn't the question stupid! And even when Edwards point blank asked him to respond the the "present" votes, Obama laid it off on the bill had some areas he wanted more explained. I thought, and maybe it am wrong, that before they vote on a bill, they each have a copy of it to review, if this is true, then why didn't he vote yes or no. And all this talk about "race", Obama and his staff are right in the middle of it, but once again blaming Hillary. Hillary gave very direct answers, clearly outlined her position and let us all know where she stands. Obama, well, I, uh-uh-uh ….!!! And for Edwards, I am sick of hearing, I was a poor, little white boy from South Carolina! And Obama is "clue-less" when Hillary talked about running against the Republican nominee, Hillary has the fight and will-power to hold her own with McCain or Romney no matter what they throw at her. But McCain or Romney will eat Obama alive! If Obama thinks Hillary and Bill are being unfair to the poor little black boy, just wait the Republicans dig up dirt on him. And if the blacks are voting for Obama just because he is black, then they are doing our country a big disservice, because the election is about getting our country back on its feet, economically and international. Obama doesn't cut it! He showed tonight just how "inexperienced" he is.

GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama says he can forge concensus and work with the Republicans. I'm a Republican and would not vote for Obama for this reason …

Having blocked a bill from coming out of his committee in the Illinois legislation, Obama allowed the practice of leaving born-alive babies on carts with the dirty laundry for hours until they died, following unsuccessful abortions.

Even NARAL and Hillary opposed this practice. Alan Keyes called this practice infanticide, yet Obama prevented the legislative body in Illinois from putting an end to it. The Illinois bill to end this practice passed after Obama left the state legislature. A similar federal law is now in place, no thanks to B. Obama.

The federal law is the "Born Alive Infant Protection Act" which passed unanimously in the U.S. Senate, with only 15 opposing it in the U.S. House

The Illinois "Infant Liability Act" to protect babies that survived late-term abortions came up twice in Obama's committee. The first time he voted, "present". The 2nd time Obama voted, "no" to ending the practice of leaving babies to die with the refuse.

Brown582,

What in the world are you talking about when you say that John Edwards has more experience than Barack Obama? Barack Obama has 8 years of experience in the Ilinois Senate and 3 years of experience in the United States Senate. That is 11 years of experience, Brown582. John Edwards only has 6 years of experience in the United States Senate. That is only 6 years. Eleven years trumps six years.

SO, THEREFORE, BARACK OBAMA IS MORE EXPERIENCED THAN JOHN EDWARDS!

If you think there is backlash against Hillary now… wait until the general election. There is not a chance that she can bring in independent or crossover votes. Shame on Hillary/Bill for reducing this debate to the lowest common denominator. Good grief…as a white woman, I am offended that she sends her "man" behind the scenes to do her dirty work. Tonight she looked (and sounded) like a petulant princess stopping just short of stamping her foot.

The media coverage of this debate is trite and tabloidesque, particularly on the day that celebrates one of the greatest leaders of the 20th century – MLK. Shame on you!

The more I hear of Barack Obama, the more I like him. He has an easy style, an enormous intellect, and tremendous political courage. Bottom up change will not be easy but after 2 generations of Bush/Clinton politics, I am ready for it.

Obama '08

Honestly.

All SPIN aside. You are seeing people ACTUALLY call Senator Obama on the things he says and does.

Even senator Edwards NAILED Obama on his voting record.

Its ABOUT TIME.

CLEARLY Obama does NOT like being challenged on his record or the things he said. He has a GLASS JAW.

He would prefer to live in w orld where he can give SPEECHES and everyone agrees with what he says and does.

How is he supposed to deal with way more difficult opposition from the republicans or in office with world leaders.

WHERE IS THE ENTIRE DEBATE? WHY ONLY PARSED PIECES?

Stop trying to make hay with your edited snippets and just make the whole debate available online!

I got stuck at work and didn't TiVo it in advance, didnt think I needed to. It is 12:30A Eastern and there are 50 stories on website each with a half dozen 'clips' from the debate with misleading, inflammatory link titles, but NO DEBATE!

Why do you media bafoons continue to try to make your narratives 'real' by only showing convenient, edited clips???

This is outrageous. It is 12:30am and you media elites (Wolf,Larry, some fat woman) are still spewing into the early morning, showing the same 2 clips over and over again, saying the same thing over and over again for the past 3 hours to make it appear the entire 1.5 hour debate was all sharp rhetoric but you can't seem to make the time to post the entire debate stream. Of course, y'all keep calling it 'slugfest' and 'throwing down the gloves', etc.

I just want to watch the FULL debate, start to finish, to make up my own mind!

The media disgusts me and the way the media (CNN in particular) have been artificially goosing a "Race & Politics" slant, when it is mostly of their own making is why America has slid so far from its Democratic ideals.

Regards,
oh4real

Was Edwards ever "Out" of the race, I don't recall him stating that….., I do recall the MEDIA deciding he was out.

Why not let the people decide, just act like – journalist and REPORT the news & stop creating the news for a change?

Just cover ALL the candidates, stop trying to steal our voice and our options.

IM PROUD OF OBAMA, HE'S HANDLING THE HILLARY AND BILL CLINTON DOUBLE TEAM WITH CLASS. AND IM SURE OBAMA KNEW FROM JUST HISTORY ALONE, WE HAVE TO WORK TWICE AS HARD TO ACHIEVE THE SAME OBJECTIVE.

The whinner Obamama was studdering all night as someone posted before me. … do we really want him as our leader….. Wow what a baby!! Tuffen up a little!

As the wife of a soldier I cannot send my husband into a world where a woman will be Commander-in-Chief. Yes, I will say it! and I know people won't like it, but have we thought about the fact that the President has to be a global figure in the world we live in. Are countries that still have thoughts(wrong or right) against women even walking without covering their heads. Is the President of the US ready to have real discussions with the political leaders of other countries, while not being allowed to sit next to them. They will end up discussing politics with her husband.

This country needs to unify and pick a strong viable Democratic party leader one who can have conversations with the Republicans that won't include why the Clintons lied to America and Congressional committees about the "private" matters that disgraced this country.

I thought the debate was well presented, the questions fair, but Obama couldn't answer any. His knowledge of "His Change" isn't there. No clear winner tonight, but Hillary and John Edwards at least talk ed to us and Provided answers to the questions, not just quotes from the Past. So glad to be in America where my vote
will count in the primary and the Nov. election.

Forget TV, Debates, mudslinging, etc.; Research the candidates, their ideals, their plans, read their books (oh Obama is the only one that actually wrote one). It comes down to: Do You Want Change in Washington or the same old, same old? Do you want intelligence or rhetoric? Do want a uniter or a divider?
Do you want to live in the past (Clinton era) or move into a new unwritten better future? The choice is not complicated.

Great debate for Edwards; Obama showed us why he should be our next president. What a gem we have in him, he has shown us it's OK to be positive, unlike the divisiveness the Clintons thrive on.

NIKITA, you probably work for the Clintons, I can tell from your CAPITAL LETTERS in both entries you are upset that Hillary got called out for her distortions and was put in her place. Now you and some of her supporters are attacking Obama on a personal level because you have nothing good to run on. It's ok not to agree with Obama or even like him, but my question is, do you have to get so negative???

Memo to Nikita and other negative Clinton supporters: The democratic party does NOT belong to the Clintons, nor is it their birth rite to govern this country. The last time I checked, we had a democratic system. As someone who voted for Bill AND Hillary (as senator), I'm very disappointed at the way they have carried themselves through out this campaign. AMERICA CAN DO BETTER.

If Hillary wins the election this fall (big if), she won't be able to govern and she certainly won't get her "universal" healthcare through. We'll have a worse situation after the election than before. Not only will we still have a war in Iraq, we'll also have a full-scale battle in DC. The end result for America? More bitterness and no results.

JOHN, YOU DID A WONDERFUL JOB TONITE!! VERY DECISIVE, VERY ACCURATE, BLACK AND WHITE AND NO GRAY AREAS! I FEEL YOU WON THIS DEBATE FAIR AND SQUARE!

It's time to push Obama aside he has more than proven himself as an amateur with the reactions of a spoiled brat, as he demonstrated in Nevada and again tonight with his personal attacks. We should no longer allow race to be an issue in our Party, it is beneath us and it is diverting us from the real challenges. Whichever one of the them wins, the party will be fractured, and will need to be repaired immediately. As we continue to fight amongst ourselves, the Republican's are beginning to organize around McCain. We need to prevent this and I would like to encourage our efforts be focused towards the opposite side of the aisle. I would also like us to look at what Obama has done for us?

As we sit on the fence and ponder who to support, I hope we realize there is one candidate that talks of "change" you can hear it, but you can't see it and you can't feel it. Where is this change this candidate speaks of? We hear the words, but what can we do with their easy words? Do we believe that Senators are powerless, and are unable to institute change. Either this candidate is not serious in their message, or they are to inexperienced in order to institute "change". The voting record of this candidate speaks for itself. Voting "Present" demonstrates a lack of commitment and a lack of courage. He has also demonstrated a lack of judgment voting twice for the Yucca Mountain nuclear storage bill, which would be an environmental disaster.

Obama will bring about change, and it will be good for America? I will have to disagree. This country is in a real crisis and some of us want to go with someone that has nothing to show in his hand, and only persuades you with his charisma and speeches. I'm sorry but Obama is not realistic, he is ideology, much the same way George Bush is. Instead Obama is more like George then MLK jr.

George also promised to bring change, unity and restore the reputation of the government. He is a "uniter not a divider" he wanted to work with both parties, he also had a severe lack of experience. He was also very charismatic and people liked him, he was laid back and seemed to be easy to get a long with. Everything was great in the land of make believe. Once he got into office things changed, he started making back room deals with energy companies, then Enron happened, Worldcom, Adelphia, The Anderson Group, things began to fall apart. George didn't know what to do, so he went on vacation and kept golfing. He ignored the warning of the Previous Administration who told George that bad people were trying to use airplanes to attack the U.S. Yet George didn't listen he kept on believing every thing was hunky dory.

Then one day when George was reading to some kids and implementing his "No Child Left Behind Program" something terrible happened. A plane hit a building, then a second plane hit a building. Someone told George that there had been an attack on the WTC, what did George do with all of his good intentions and promises of change? He kept on reading for another 6 minutes to our future generation, who he failed to protect.

Later George found out that it had been a terrorist attack, and that it was most likely from some guy named Osama Bin Laden. George later found out that the perpetrators of the attack were all from Saudi Arabia, and that they were part of a group called Al Qaeda and the Taliban, who he then found out were part of the ruling government in Afghanistan.

George decided to pick a fight with these bad men, and declared war on a developing country, who had very limited technology and education. Unfortunately due to George's lack of experience in foreign relations, George wasn't sure how to ultimately win against this "Axis of Evil". He didn't know that he should have kept his focus on the fight he started. Instead he wanted to bring change to the Middle East with this amazing concept of democracy in the Middle East. His first idea was to target another bad man Sadam Hussein, who was an evil dictator and an enemy of Iran, and certainly had WMD. George decided to send in some people in white lab coats to see if there was any WMD or nuclear technology, that the previous Administration had failed to act upon. He requested that he be able to send some of these geeky people, by asking congress to give him permission to investigate, because he didn't want to see a mushroom cloud over some city in the U.S. like the "Liberty Tower" in L.A. What was a Senator to do? Should she go with the will of her constituents, and the intelligence reports that were available? Or should she say to herself, "You know I'm going to go ahead and put our country at risk of a nuclear attack, because I just know that George isn't going to allow the IAEA to complete their investigation. I mean after all he does not have any of that pesky foreign policy experience that would help him decide to not start another war."

When the pesky geek squad couldn't find anything, George became impatient. His lack of experience was of no concern to him, and it shouldn't be to the American people, he knows what he is doing is right! He has the belief in himself and his integrity to get rid of that ol' pesky Saddam. George didn't need experience or the assistance from the U.N. instead he said "You're either with us or you're with the terrorist!" Foreign Policy who needs foreign policy, if someone is in your way you just push them aside. We're America GDit, if Musharf won't go after Bin Laden, then we will just go ahead bomb him.

No experience is not something that is needed in this day and age. We need a fresh face, someone that is new to the political scene, someone that has had no experience with other global leaders. No we live in a great era full of hope and promise, devoid of the evils of the world, because our fearless leader George Bush has gotten rid of all the evil bogey men. What we really need is someone that doesn't know what they're doing, that doesn't understand what is at stake. Who's only real concern is obtaining glory. What we need is another George Bush, that's why I suggest Barack Obama. His lack of knowledge on the issues, and his lack of experience can only ensure the continued success of our great nation and the fabulous state we are in today, thanks to the lack of experience, the promises of change and unity, that George Bush has brought us. I'm sure he will be great with the suggestions of bombing Pakistan and not negotiating with Musharf, but would love to have a "stand up dinner" with Ahmadinejad. I mean it's not like Pakistan has nuclear weapons or anything, and that their government is on the verge of collapse. No we need to stand for principles and tell him if he doesn't have elections, we're not going to be his friends anymore. Yes Barack has everything I'm looking for in a candidate, that's why I will be voting for him in 2008. Let's keep the changes coming, with an even better version of Barack; no wonder he is able to get the support of Republicans.

In case I need to spell it out for anyone. I was kidding about voting for Barack, I wouldn't vote for him if he were the only one running. I don't believe in a government ran on ideology, I'm a little bit more realistic. I can actually think for myself too, instead of relying on the opinions of Oprah and her day time talk show. That is why I will be voting for someone that can actually do something to save our country; Hillary Clinton.

P.S. Please don't insult MLK jr by comparing him to Barack. When you look at the issues Obama more closely mirrors George Bush. If the Democratic Party is ignorant enough to nominate Barack then I don't want to hear them complain about George anymore.

Obama reminds me of Allen Greenspan. Speaks alot, sounds intelligent and at the end of everything, leaves one shaking one's head and saying "what did he say or he spoke without saying anything." If change occurs by baffling everyone with a lot of words for what one is attempting to say, then guess we have our choice. Change will be like watching a pot boil!

Marcus, where our you from? I wonder. Your running for the little people, yet you fight for slum lord to belittle them even more. If he had true beliefs he would not have done anything for them.

Everyone filters information based on their own objectives, and motives. Everyone wants to hear information that supports their agenda. However, based on watching the debate I assume the individuals that are saying Hilary did well have to be associated with her campaign.

Edwards found the hole he was looking for. He looked like the rationale person compared to the top candidates that were bickering. But it also made him look like an opportunist! He is such a problem for Barrack! He’s sucking up votes that would probably go to Barrack. Hilary must love the fact that he’s holding on.

Barrack had to clear the air on his record, and appeared to walk in with that agenda. I think he did an excellent job, and in the process did a lot of damage to the Clintons.

I was a big Clinton supporter for years, but after this campaign, I’m not sure that it’s something I would brag about. The Clintons and their supporters have behaved like street thugs!

I loved the comment that Barrack made regarding race! Barrack is not a black man. He is an American man. His mother is white, and his father is black. I think mentally he represents us all!

And looking at his record he has more experience than Hillary. Barrack has to fight the Clinton propaganda machine, which seems to work on the uninformed and the paranoid!

Good luck Mr. Obama!

I was disappointed to see that once again Obama slipped right past addressing some of the difficult points, such as his "present" votes in Illinois, especially knowing that he is prone to missing senate votes and then calling people who did vote on their wrong decisions. And he slid right past the representation of a slumlord without satisfactory explanation (only 5 hours of work is not a good enough answer). And it's clear his view of the war has changed over the years and he has voted to fund it, so he has not been up front with that. Who knows what his decision would have been had he been around to vote on it.

I had been comfortable with all three Dem candidates but was becoming increasingly uncomfortable with Obama. After tonight, I just plain don't trust him anymore.

I certainly would not turn my back on the party if I don't like the candidate, and I would vote for whoever is the Dem candidate, but I hope it is not Obama.

John Edwrds and Barack Obama together couldn't dent Hillary's Armor. She showed the whole country her resolve and determanation to become our 1st First lady. Hillary will use tonights debate as another step twards the White House.
You Go Girl.

The Clintons continue the same political strategy that they have employed for both of Bill Clinton's bids for Presidency and now for Hillary's, say anything half truths, bald faced lies, it doesn't matter, just get it out there; get that 5 second sound bite, we have become a nation that elects on 5 second increments. If anyone thought Hillary "brought to light Obama's record" is just buying into this 5 second strategy. Anyone that bought in to the "He's the representative of slum lords" come on please people use your brains evaluate the truth, stand for change.

I do however agree with this writer that Clinton is going after the partisan votes where Obama is driving at being the candidate to work with both parties to build the majority. My God people what we've seen what partisan politics gets us…NO WHERE!!!

I have supported Obama from the start of his campaign not because I'm anti-Hillary, but rather I am tired of politics as usual; I have grown weary of politicians serving themselves, their cronies, and all their special interest groups; I'm ready for someone willing to go in and push for change and I think Obama is the only candidate running that is truly after change. Mark my words people if Hillary is elected you can expect 4 more years of business as usual, nothing will get done, nothing will change, lines will be drawn, and our nation will more polarized than ever.

I never cease to be amazed at the continued anointing of Barack Obama by the MSM. The debate tonight was interesting in the apparent leaning of CNN toward Obama. I keep wondering why this great interest in promoting him. It is quite obvious that the media likes to think their influence is the deciding factor in the naming of a president. I can't ignore motives. Are you looking for a candidate that you think a Republican can easily beat? Aside from that, I really like to listen for the nuts and bolts of the individual candidates personal ideas for moving this country forward. Barack denied that he glorified Reagan. I immediately went to Google and typed in "Obama/on Reagan". There it was as plain as day, telling how he united this country and moved it forward. Tonight he was telling that he has spent the last 15 years fighting Reagan's policies. I have listened to every debate so far and I still cannot decide what exactly his message is except to praise the Republicans as the party of ideas and praising Reagan. Does he have any idea what he says in the heat of a debate? I wish visitors would discuss the issues instead of appearances. It would then be of great interest to everyone.

When I look at Barrack Obama I don't think color, when I look at Hillary Clinton I don't think Gender, when I look at John Edwards I don't think Good Ole Boy. Please Please!! Could we just get past all of this racial and gender nonsense and just think " WHO WILL THE RIGHT PERSON BE TO SAVE OUR AMERICA*? WHAT IS SO WRONG WITH THAT KIND OF THINKING? WE ALL PUT OUR PANTS ON THE SAME WAY!!!!

Brenda Dickey
Supporter of John Edwards,
Farmington, Missouri

This letter is to the editor and the American People. As I watched the debate tonight I find it hard to understand how Senator Obama, the media and anyone with common since can say this is not racially being lead. First off less be real here, Martin Luther king was a great man. However he was not a President, or a politician. He had not power what so ever and this is why he was assonated by the CIA and the Republican Party. That also why the files on his and JFK deaths keep getting hidden under the reasoning of national security. It funny however time there up to be unsealed a Republican somehow get elected and they get sealed for longer periods of time. But be that as it may, Mr. King was not in the position to sign anything, or to direct any laws. If not for LBJ having the guts and courage to push this with other Democratic. The first step in many would not have been taken. So why does the black community get up in rage because the TRUTH is told. This is not racist, then why it is that most black repeat they will vote race before gender, before experience, before thoughtful consideration. Is that not saying that the black is a race and they will vote for their race before allowing there minds to think someone else is not better, even though they are? It the record that show me that Obama is not ready, as well as the fact if he is elected whomever is Vice president will be President before his term is up. They’re our too many white idiots out there whom would assonate him. He would have to always be worried about that and that would interfere with his ability to run government. Yet another truth, which I sure will rile up the masses. I hate that it is true, but it is. He shuck and jive questions like billiard ball on a pool table during a bank shot. All glamour to avoid the direct issue. I was a big John Edward supporter last time, and still feel the wrong ticket was present to win last time around. I still feel if it would have been Edward/Kerry they would have won. Won by a landslide I might add. To be quite honest with you I am totally independent in whom I vote for, and who will help me the most. Who will lead as a leader and not be afraid. Frankly the Democratic have one option only and not a strong one. The republican will not nominate the right person because he is not a party person rather a public servant. John will never get it, because of that. The only different between John McCain and Hillary is this. They both our battle tested, they both speck the truth and stand hard on there believes. But I am afraid Hillary would fall for the same old BS of rule of engagement, rules on war. There our no rules when there is a war. You fight to win and gain the supremacy of they other and secure your position with the least amount of causalities to yourself. Were as I hope to think I know John well enough to say there would be zero tolerance to rules. He as well as I went through that once and seen the outcome of it. War need to be fought like WWII and WWI. There maybe innocents killed, but the objective will be reached and reached fast and with fewer causalities. Watch South Carolina, majority Black. They will divide right down racial lines, and Obama will win. Is this what he is after divide by race. He knows this, whites our now the true minority in this country. Men our minority under woman. So if this were truly a race because of race or gender, then gender would win. It a race or color. Let really divide this country, lets set back Martin Luther Kings step forward to the beginning again. Because that is what is happening. As I heard stated by him tonight, and others, I would have to see how he dances to see if he was a brother. <<<>>> I do not think this is a word used by White, Hispanic, Asians, Europeans, this is a word generated for and used by the Black community. Our Bikers our Elite Clubs. So yes I can tell you how I would vote for right now, without a doubt. John McCain, but he will not get it so then it goes to Hillary Clinton. Because Obama, or my buddy John Edwards could not beat any of the republican with exception of Rudy I think. The best ticket out there to assure a win for the democratic would be Clinton/Obama however that will never happen now. They our slinging too much to retract come the time to heal. Republican would not stand a chance. I would still vote for John and lose my vote, But John would have no one to run with him strong enough other then maybe, and I say maybe Evan Byah of Indiana. Evan has the humanely needed and John the Strength. But there again Evan not a party man either, and he’s a democratic. But would that not be the perfect ticket. John McCain republican and Evan Byah democratic. Could not those isles be breeched then? So Obama quit saying this is not racial, and your not running on race. Because you knew when you started BROTHER that color will vote for color. All your doing is dividing this country and breaking down everything Martin Luther King stood for. Would you stand a snowballs chance in hell if you were White?

R. Dalton
Wyoming

Moderate please post this there nothing wrong with it even if you disagree with it.

I say lets see whats happens alot can change from tonite debate till saturday when the SC votes happens. I think John Edwards won the debate but Obama did'nt lose anything nor Clinton why because Hillary knows she may not win SC and John Edwards knows he be last and Hillary and Edwards are gearing up for the super tuesday feb 5 thing.Why Super Tuesday more important than SC because there going to be 24 states voting and we see if Clinton can remain in first and if John Edwards will be able to finally get in second and knock off obama and finally go against Clinton instead of people playing lets get the first women in the whitehouse or the first black president instead we have a person who trying to fight for the real issues.Now its very likely Obama getting in as VP but because of so much heat between him and Clinton dont know if she take him as vp but we see because I think when the nominee is selected we finally unite no matter who the nominee is even if it not obama or clinton or John Edwards but if its one of them.So bottom line is I think Hillary and Edwards knows there going to lose SC and tonite debate when they talk were for the national people not SC.

I really didn't like the personal attacks on each other. It wouldn't help any of them, especially Obama as he is having a nice guy and agent of changes' image. In my opinion, clinton's and Edwards' attack on Obama's healthcare and his Votes of "present" have done a lot of damages to his campaigne. Clinton was wll prepared. Edwards took advantage of clinton and Obama's heated exhanges. I like Obama's personality. He is a nice guy. However, it's too hard for him to win other states. He is still unknown to most Americans and too new to trust. we have lost millions of jobs, respect in the world, the economy is in danger of overheating amid rising inflationary pressure, and we are facing a record trade and budget deficit. Therefore, candidates' experience does count in this troubling economy.

Roland Martin is smug and so anti-Clinton
And the rest of the panel was sooooooooo anti-Clinton
Anderson Cooper and CNN should be ashamed of themselves… for again Showcasing Obama during this post debate show and to me is irresponsible.
The WOMEN will Speak VOLUMES AGAIN and CNN and the rest of the Anti-Clinton Media is this spinning and pampering Obama.
The African American Community should be embarrassed with the pampering of Obama and making it appear as though African Americans are people who only vote on appeal as so strongly stated by Roland Martin…the greatest representative of African Americans(NOT), he also gasped at the point thatToni Morrison was wrong to say that Pres Clinton was the 1st Black President. Such disrespect for Toni Morrison is inexcuseable and shows the racist tones by reacting the way Roland Martin did.
Spin that CNN and show how much of a racist tone that sends and may turn off African Americans to vote for Obama.
Showcasing your bitterness towards the Clintons is not going to help but it will devide the people who have done nothing but try to support their candidate…discouraging a group of people by spinning and subjective commentaries is disgraceful and when the dust clears…you'll be left ALONE.
KARMA lives and breathes in the Universe

In typical Hillary Clinton fashion she criticized Barack Obama for not casting votes, however if you go to the Washington Post you will find that out of the last 442 votes, Obama missed 166 while Clinton missed 103.

On a couple of KEY VOTES you also see a "discrepancy" between what Clinton claims and what she does.

Obama – 7/29/05 Vote 213: H R 6: Offered tax breaks and incentives in what supporters said was an effort to spur oil and gas companies to provide innovative ways to reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil, conserve resources and reduce pollution. Yes-Obama Yes-GOP Opinion Yes-DEM Opinion

Clinton – 7/29/05 Vote 213: H R 6: Offered tax breaks and incentives in what supporters said was an effort to spur oil and gas companies to provide innovative ways to reduce the nation's dependence on foreign oil, conserve resources and reduce pollution. No-Clinton Yes-GOP Opinion Yes-DEM Opinion

Obama – 3/10/05 Vote 44: S 256: Made it harder for people to erase debt by declaring bankruptcy. No-Obama Yes-GOP Opinion No-DEM Opinion

Clinton – 3/10/05 Vote 44: S 256: Made it harder for people to erase debt by declaring bankruptcy. Not Voting-Clinton Yes-GOP Opinion No -DEM Opinion

I'm getting so upset, that no one is giving John Edwards a chance! The only reason he doesn't have a chance is because people keep talking about how he can't win. If people would stop looking at this election as a contest between obama and clinton, they might see the clearly better candidate in john edwards. The only candidate who states their claims logically and intellectually is john edwards. He speaks about HIS policies, and speaks about HIS ideals. He hasnt made his campaign about dis-crediting the others. He speaks his mind and gives his honest opinion. However if we want another subpar president then by all means keep paying attention to obama and clinton. It's not too late for edwards but people who like him actually need to show it and not say "oh well he cant win so im gonna vote for one of the other two."

I saw those 130 present votes. They were not significant pieces of legislature. Anyone who wants to see the record can visit WashingtonPost.com. But to gawk at the 130 number as if it means something by itself is ignorant.

I agree that Obama hardly looked presidential. His command of the facts and even his own "plans" were less than impressive. He lacks decisiveness. If he sounds foolish next to Hillary, how is he going to win against the republican machine!!?? I hope my fellow democrats will take a step back and consider who the stronger candidate will be. I could support either Hillary or John Edwards (I think John is more straightforward and I love his character); I DON'T want Obama trying to handle foreign policy, for heaven's sake. Either Edwards or Clinton can do the job from a foreign policy standpoint.

Im a republican living in Texas and after watching today's debate I decided to vote for Obama. Im a 65 yr old who is sick and tired of this Clinton-Bush Dynasty. I need to see something new and fresh and im also sick and tired of politicians always trying to divide us. Why is Hillary always talking about fighting the Republicans? We are Americans too!! We have voices too! I think Barack showed that he was inspirational and had to show that he had the muscles to fight back and he showed that tonight. Good for you Barack. You got my vote!

Republican For Obama 08

Oh well, she's used to it. I don't think anyone's every accused her of being trustworthy or honest.

a despicable turn by hillary clinton – playing to her base, and purposefully and willfully misrepresenting obama's record all night long. she's playing to her base, and seems to wish to follow in the footsteps of such 'successful' democratic nominees as dukakis, mondale and kerry. this kind of fierce, phony partisanship can only lose a general election for the democrats. bravo to obama tonight for standing up to her lies – he showed some guts and passion. hillary's whining scolding tone was irritating, even more so her continual (and deceptive) insistence that he stated that republicans have had better ideas. did she even read his remarks? he was actually speaking the truth, a rare thing in this day and age. this had to have been her weakest and most disingenuous debate appearance yet.

How can this be considered a true debate when not all of the candidates were allowed to be participate?? The Congressional Black Caucus invited Dennis Kucinich to tonight's debate only to be excluded, yet again, by the "big media"!!

Dennis Kucinich–Strength Through Peace…Let his voice be heard!!

After tonights debate I feel proud that I voted for John Edwards in the Florida primary.
The other two candidates make me despise the process of political debate. It's a shame the media has already dismissed Edwards as being a viable candidate – shame on you!! You focused only on Clinton and Obama and in so doing did a terrible injustice to Edwards -

After tonight's debate, I prefer Edwards. I was undecided but leaning heavily in favor of Obama before tonight (I even signed up for info from his website). However, I was less than impressed by he and Hillary's display of politics as usual. Talk about the issues already and in a REAL way so the voters have an understanding of what you actually plan to do. I am tired of hearing vague talk of change and promises of things being better – without ever hearing what the actual plans are and how these things will be accomplished. It is clear they are afraid to speak in definites b/c they know they may not keep their word if elected – and don't want it thrown in their face next time they run. These candidates need to stop underestimating the intelligence of American voters and focus on the issues.

And for the love of all that is newsworthy, it would be FANTASTIC if CNN would stop covering this election like it is a two-person race. There are THREE viable candidates running in the Democratic primary, regardless of the media's near refusal to acknowledge that fact. I will vote for John Edwards on February 5th, and I think a lot of other people will too.

I prefer the unBUSH. Go OBAMA. Hillary and Bill represent Vitriol.

Who wants Bush/Clinton/Bush/Clinton only MORONS.

Go OBAMA and kick the Clintons out of the White House PERMANENTLY!

I despise her and will vote Republican before her. She is soooo POLARIZING and anyone who doesn't see is just as polarizing and need to be booted just like them.

GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!

I am so glad to see Barack come to this debate and fight back against Hillary and
hubby Bill's lies and half truths. I am a 50 year old woman (if we must bring
race and/or gender into the scheme of things) and in an election where we have
the pundents telling us that these are historical times—"we have our first chance
to have a women running the White House I have an ugly taste in my mouth and
am not in the least impressed. Hillary made referernce tonight to the indifference in the lack of fairness toward men and women over job pay, etc. Here is my point— we all know it exists and yet she wants us to believe that she has been a victim of these guys ganging up on her during the campaign. PLEASE!!!! I think if she wants to play with the "good old boys"she has to be willing to stand on her own feet and not have Billy Boy fighting her battles. Is Bill going to fight her battles for her when thing get rough in the White House with regards to foreign matters, etc. She stated that to Billy Boy's defense that all the candidates had supportive spouses and she felt he was a great asset to hers campaign.I have yet to see either Edwards or Obama's wives act like (Hillary is allowing )Bill is acting. Its not only distractful (maybe thats her plan), but distasteful and disgusting. Maybe that the Clinton plan—let's divide the party and the nation for we can't have that silly dream her challenger believes in.She doesn't represent what I look to for a role model. On several occasions tonight during the debate I wanted to reach thru the TV and wipe that smug sarcastic smile off her face. GROW UP HILLARY!!!! If you want us to believe that you have what it takes to be the best candidate—-start showing us that side. Stick to the issues!!!!! So far she's not very convincing. I'll take class and maturity (which both Edwards and Obama have)anyday over her tactics—-tears, a quivering voice and now distorted truth and lies. It won't work for me and I don' t think it will work with world leaders either.

Without authenticity and idealism the numerous serious problems facing our nation and the world will not be solved . Both Senators Obama and Edwards qualify while Senator Clinton is ,in my opinion ,only motivated by ambition in becoming the fist female U.S. President.

Hillary and Barack are poll-abiding politicians, without real hearts and minds. Edwards is the same.

Wake up and realize that they are no different than pepsi is from coca-cola.

You have a choice this election season: 4 more years of the same or Ron Paul.

Choose wisely.

Obama did look tired in the first half of the debate while Edwards looked the most refreshed….(are these things the basis of our choice for President?), but that has been the story of the campaign Hillary / Edwards win debates. Obama wins speeches But he did not bomb as some have suggested. He was being guarded, trying to say enough to win South Carolina without doing a Huckabee and saying things that kill your national campaign.

He did need to go after Bill Clinton who is running a decisive sniper attack campaign as a former President…no other presidential candidate spouse has wielded that kind of power. The US should not behave as some Banana Republic which former leaders stand up and tell the people who their next leader will be.

I definitely like what Obama said about bring new faces into the party and the process. Hillary has the opposite affect…independents non political types are pushed away. Sure, she can rally the faithful but where does that leave the party in the future.

Edwards is the only viable candidate in my minds right now, if both Obama and Clinton keep going at it. It bothers me to see the Democratic Candidates get away from issues and hit each others like Republicans do. The issues are what drive the Democratic party and only Edwards really touches on them. Please America! look at the candidates and see who is viable. I support Obama over Clinton and Edwards over both, but will vote for Romney or McCain if I feel Obama or Clinton are to rapped up in them selves.

If it is Obama/Edwards or Edwards/Obama, the country would be in outstanding shape, however I also feel that an Edwards/Richardson campaign trumps all. Both Edwards and Richardson are speakers of cause, not of change. We need to focus on the issues, and Edwards is the one to do that.

no matter who we vote for its better than voting republican

KUDOS—HILLARY AND JOHN
It's about time that common points can come together and point out the OBAMA uuh,huh,huh not so comments on health care for EVERYONE and the state of the economy. OBAMA, maybe instead of making quotes others have made in the past you should work on getting more experience to handle the issues at hand!!! talking about something and actually doing something about it is far different OBAMA
HILLARY–keep it up

I agree that it was about time someone pointed out that Obama hasn't taken responsibility for his "present" votes no matter what the audience thought. That was fair game. If that is the way he represents his constituents, I can only imagine what he would fail to take responsibility for as president.

Oh my, is this the Republican line. Hillary comes off as a belligerent individual, experience being a wife. OK, so lets get Rosalynn Carter and Barbara Bush to help run the country. Oh is she going to tear up again and get more votes. Tell me how many votes has she missed. Telling how she is a senator from NY and she resided again where ? Oh yeah, Arkansas how convenient. Confident is a little different than arrogant as far as I have been told. Lets simply wait till Saturday.

Who Won?

Edwards, the Southern gentleman first with Hillary, always the most articulate a close second and blithering Barack third.

How many times did we hear, "Wait a minute – This is important" from the ego/power/control driven Obama while he gobbled up everyone else's time with his boring, slippery rhetoric. The quizzical expression on John Edward's face as he listened to Obama was priceless.

Barack never came up with a straight answer to scrutiny. He continued to confuse truth with rhetoric. I'm through listening to Mr. Obama.

Hillary Clinton President with John Edwards as VP 08

As a Republican I Like Obama and John Edwards think that a ticket with them would Win in America ! and iam tired of the corporate world running America and The Gas and Oil lobbys that keeps the prices up and the Jobs Like mine tech support for AOL going to India nafta is a bad trade agreament ! Go Obama Edwards president vice president!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"A Problem is Not as Permanent As Its Solutions"

As a Professional African American male (who at this time is undecided). and a register Independent.

I watch the debate this evening I must honestly say it was exciting to say the least. However I was disappointed with Sen Obama and Sen Clinton. I was impressed Sen Edwards affords to redirect the debate to the core issues affecting our country today.

While watching the debate I thought of a quote from:

President Abraham Lincoln "We are not enemies, We are Friends, Though Passions may have stranded it must not break the bounds of our affections"

I believe that Sen Clinton and Sen Obama should to take heed to the quote mention above.

Now I respect their passion, yet at this time moving forward it would be smart and prudent for one, if not both of them to realize that these personal attacks will only give media more filler for their programs.

Programs that rarely report stories or information that truly speak to the core issues of America as a whole in my opinion.

Sen Obama Sen Clinton I Beg you Stop this! show America Democratic, Republican, Independents "We are Ready for Change" As you both have offer change for this country.

A country in my opinion has for the last eight years has lost creditability, not just with the international community, but more important with the citizens of our homeland

We are not enemies, We are Friends, Though Passion may have strand, It must not break the bounds of our affections……………….

Lets talk about the solution's for our country!

Shawn Martin
Novato CA

THANK YOU OBAMA FOR FINALLY STANDING UP TO AND EXPOSING THE FRAUD THAT IS THE CLINTONS!!!!!!!! It felt like justice finally occurred. Hillary looked absolutely flustered, desperate and, most importantly, B-U-S-T-E-D!!! Keep it up and expose the lack of integrity that is the Clintons (and this is from one who voted both times for Bill – I'm not ashamed to admit).

I feel hilary really touched bse with reality on the housing issues and health care . I dont feel anybody should vote for someone because of race. The true winners tonight seemed to be hilary and edwards. I feel they represented truth and deivered facts with a plan to back it up. but i must say im democratic . There has been too much emphasis place on the race issue black or a woman shouldnt matter the issues should .Ive been listening to hillary since 1984 and always thought she was a heck of a speaker and i did notice that when Bill Clinton got in off those issues became issues that were implemented .Edwards really delivered good points too with a plan. For me Obama just didnt speak well and seemed to contradict himself and stumble over issues and words.

Obama should not participate in these debates where Billary tries to uselessly attack his integrity.

He will do much better to talk to people than to this ROBOT

Billary, you had your fame …..get out of change's way

Obama, arise, awake and stop not until the goal is reached

I don't get the Hillary experience. Is Laura Bush qualified to be President? She's been a governors wife and first lady for eight years? Of course she's been involved in good causes, that was her job. This is about the Clintons (yes both of them) wanting to return to power. I think anybody named Bush or Clinton should be banned from the White House for the next fifty years.

Hillary is truly hateful!! I am disgusted by her behavior. She and Bill distort the facts, especially Obama’s Regan comments, and his Illinois voting record. His explanation for his "present" votes in the Illinois legislature is entirely believable. Hillary and Bill just throw out their mud and hope nobody looks too deeply into what they are saying. What is wrong with the voters that they would support someone as divisive as she is? I have lost all respect for Bill Clinton. This is not what the country needs, we need Obama to heal our wounds for Bush. Like many other Democrats I will NOT vote for Hillary in the general election. (Notice that she would not promise to keep lobbyists out our her government) John McCain may be a conservative Republican but he gets a lot more of my respect than Hillary ever will.

I think Obama is an ideal candidate that will be able to tackle the issues as President of the United States that plaque our nation and it's people: Democratic or Republican, in black or white communities, among the rich or poor, and in our country in good economic times or bad. He exhibits his character and strength through his plan of action, his accomplishments, relationships and embodies true diplomacy. He is a leader with the ability to unite all Americans, restore our moral standing and rebuild our relationships abroad.

Never let em see you sweat. It would be wise of team Clinton to try a different tactic b/c they are not winning at their dirty game, it is actually backfiring on them. Obama is sharp and he is making their camp look very bad. Go Obama!

To say that Barack was rude is the most rediculous thing I have ever heard. He needs to be ruder if at all possible to that snake Hillary, or should we call her Billary? He's such a great guy it's all he can do to fight back because he doesn't like being disrespectful to women. He is a respectful man but somewhere you have to draw the line.

Obama can't handle the heat from two of his own party members how is going to handle the heat of the republicans and other countries? Mabye not the best candidate after all. The debate did not scream to me that it was fight the republicans from Clinton, the debate to me was that Clinton had better ideas, she may be the only one on the stage with any ideas. Obama could only critisize and Edwards was the referee. I will always stand behind a candidate that will take on the tough fight not "wait and see" as Obama has done tonight. The word "debate" has nothing to do with getting along,or same plans it should be a clash of ideas and quite frankly it is an exciting election year, something that can't always be said. The news media has done a good job of allowing us to hear about race in politics but we are forgeting about Susan B Anthony and Elizabeth Stanton, the women voteing today are daughters of the same generation that gave women the right to vote, where is your story on that?

I simply like this guy…
No comment — Go Obama !!

I don't understand how so many people think Hillary, the candidate with record high negatives, of whom nearly half the country says they "absolutely will not vote for," is the most electable candidate.

Aside from that, she still hasn't taken responsibility for her active support of (votes for) the Patriot Act and War Authorization… She criticizes people for not voting, but when it comes to voting on issues that matter, she does it wrong.

Sherry, I totally agree with you. I have watched every debate, Republican and Democrat, and it is obvious that Hillary Clinton knows politics. Its a life source for her and I feel as though she has worked hard and earned the chance to be the President of America.

Were we all watching the same debate? If so, where do all the others who are commenting on this come from? Only ONE candidate provided a solid answer about plans for economic reform, the current mortgage crisis, and health insurance. One candidate was clearly attacking, short fused, racist, and immature. Frankly, where has Obama been over the past ten years? I've never heard of him until he decided to run. He clearly needs to mature and gain more experience in the political sector….he may have potential but potential is not what this country needs. Hillary can stand up to anyone and she remains poised and unscathed. For a man, Obama shows too much emotion and aggravation…not good qualities for a president. As president we need someone who can take the heat head on. Go HILLARY!! SHE IS MORE OF A MAN THAN ANY CANDIDATE, repulican or democrat.

no matter which dem. candidate we vote 4 its better than voting republican

The right wingnuts are gonna have a field day with the fistacuffs between Hillary and Barak. The focus tomorrow will be entirely on that. And then there's John Edwards who looked the most level, the most reasoned, and the most presidential.

I think Obama did quite poorly, because he got off message. He appeared tired, angry, and he lost that appearance that he was "transcending" the usual politics. Watch closely, and you'll see he was the first one to veer off topic into the "negative" issues. He lost his voice and if he doesn't get it back he's done.

Edwards did well, but teaming up with Clinton only helps her.

Obama is usually the one that starts the mudslinging. It became very clear tonite that he does not have the experience to respond in a solid, fact based way to people who question him or have a different view. I started out totally for him, however, I've been really disappointed in his lack of any clear path for the war, the economy, and health care. Obama tends to change the subject and rely on his great oratorical skills to do a pep talk that has no real substance. Eight years from now he would be awesome so I hope he makes a return. Right now, I think he looks immature and inexperienced.

Hillary is the best candidate. She won the debate. And she will win the Presidency.

I feel like we all watched different debates. Increasingly, I think that the campaigns employ paid commentators to come into these forums and inject some completely off-base interpretation, claiming to represent some prized demographic.

That said, I have followed things closely and (along with numerous commentators, including David Brooks of the New York Times who describes his urge to 'reach for the vomit bag' during Clinton's Meet the Press appearance last week) I am genuinely grossed-out by the manner in which the Clintons have been distorting the truth since Obama proved himself to be a powerful candidate. Obama's strong response tonight was totally warranted and long overdue as far as I'm concerned.

I thought Barack responded in a far more civil a manner than Bill and Hillary deserved, given their dishonest tactics. I am hopeful Americans have been paying enough attention during the past month to see how the prospects of losing have led the Clintons (again) to an embarrassing disregard for the truth. I cannot support such leadership and do not believe it can accomplish the changes our country needs.

Barack Obama reflects a clear and powerful break from such cynical leadership.

if you think hillary was tough on obama, can you imagine what the republicans will
do to him in the fall? rove may be gone but his play book lives on.this is politics, not a race for home room president.

Obama says he can forge concensus and work with the Republicans. I'm a Republican and would not vote for Obama because his actions allowed infanticide to continue in the state of Illinois.

Obama said, In tonight's South Carolina debate, "I believe in the precepts of Jesus." But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 19:14 NKJV)

Having blocked a bill from coming out of his committee in the Illinois legislation, Obama allowed the practice of leaving born-alive babies on carts with the dirty laundry for hours until they died, following unsuccessful abortions.

Even NARAL and Hillary opposed this practice. Alan Keyes called this practice infanticide, yet Obama prevented the legislative body in Illinois from putting an end to it. The Illinois bill to end this practice passed after Obama left the state legislature. A similar federal law is now in place, no thanks to B. Obama.

The federal law is the "Born Alive Infant Protection Act" which passed unanimously in the U.S. Senate, with only 15 opposing it in the U.S. House

The Illinois "Infant Liability Act" to protect babies that survived late-term abortions came up twice in Obama's committee. The first time he voted, "present". The 2nd time Obama voted, "no" to ending the practice of leaving babies to die with the refuse.

Hillary seems to lie with ease. She is such a polarizing figure. Even if she wins the election, she will get nothing accomplished. This is what we have in the White House currently. Edwards should bow out gracefully too, he has no record at all to stand on. Obama seemed the most Presidential.

How is Clinton calling him out on issues? She's been hitting him all week on comments about Reagan and other useless comments. Since when did saying that a president changed conventional wisdom become an endorsement of his policies?

I'm an Obama supporter, but I thought Edwards did wonderfully tonight. Those Hillary supporters that say she won are fooling themselves. She may have helped out herself in some of the Super Tuesday states, but she's selling her soul with all she proposes while providing no ideas for things like Social Security.

I'm voting for "un-Bush!"

I agree that John Edwards did well at tonight's debates. . .but I think him winning the Democratic nomination is very unlikely.

Hillary once again came across as patronizing and didn't respond clearly to questions.

Obama wasn't in top form, but for me (and I admit I'm one of his great supporters), he did very well.

Come on folks. . .let's admit that the country is tired of Bush-Clinton-Bush. . . . let's bring some fresh air and ideas into the White House.

The debate was exhilerating. Sen. Clinton walked away the winner. She goes into depth about everything she plans on doing. If Obama is nominated, we will be in deep trouble again. He keeps speaking about HOPE. No one can run a country on hope.
Open your mind, open your ears, and open your eyes. She must win to get us back on track to win our prestige and honor back along with a better economy and whatever else is needed for success into our future.

How can Hillary claim she's for health care for all Americans when she served on Wal-Mart's board? Just one more instance of her hypocrisy. God help us.

Any one of them would be better than any Republican running. A majority of American voters, I believe, would agree. The factors playing into my decision are:
(1) Who can beat the Republicans in November? Barack Obama Too much partisanship plays into Clinton's campaign, historically and currently.
(2) Who can end the partisianship and be a consensus builder in the White House? Barack Obama His track record shows he can unite people in government and in communities. Clinton's records reflect her inability to unite so I worry we'll have 4 more years of partisan B.S. and nothing will get done.

I wish Obama could declare his running mate now and invite Edwards on board. They're both smart, articulate, sincere, and as selfless as any politican I've ever seen in my 50+ years.

Hillary won the debate for sure, but did she win on the issues, principles and trust? That is to be seen! Obama hesitated too much, blubbered and looked extremely school boyish – which is not impressive in a Presidential debate, or a race! He seemed to begin responses with a placating voice that only made him appear weak, meek, unsure and unclear! He did not win respect, hope or votes tonight.

But John Edweards won by default. He could have been firmer, more clear, more loud and Presidential. He keeps looking Vice Presidential – rather than Presidential. But he was able to score points because the petty bickering of the other two.

Hillary managed to bring Obama from his pedestal, showed his faults and he fell for it. That woman is good, and so are Bill's strategies. She knows how to fight hard, smart and dirty! And her articulation is good, clear, crism and firm – Obama seems to fumble like a school boy needing assistance and help. Maybe he has early Alzeimer or something!

Hillary is a pitbull – and years of fighting the mean-machine has made her slick, savvy, strong and a seasoned fighter. But there were many flaws in her accusations – she twists words, takes things out of context, and she is selective in the date she uses and does so slyly.

In the bigger world of intellgent policy making and breaking – she might come across as too slick – as a politician, who struggles, survives and wins – not a "real leader" who leads.

So who does look like a "leader" in all these. I am not a Repub. but McCain is the only who walks, talks and behaves like a "leader" – not just anothe slicky, savvy, smart, strong and successful politician.

How sad Democrats have come to this? Wish Biden, Kusinich, Richardson and Dodd had stayed on!

And by the way, "Is Wolf Blitzer and Hillary having an affair?" Why does he so obviously set up the debates in her favor?

Maybe the Media will vote the leaders soon! That is what it looks like!

Good luck to the Democrats and the Republicans – but is not over. So more surprises are sure to come!

Edwards!

My in-laws are die hard Wisconsin conservatives and they both said had Edwards won the nomination last time around, they would vote for the Democrats for the first time…ever.

After tonight, I can see why. I've always liked Edwards. He is sincere and the man has real ideas. He looks straight into the camera every single time. I like how Edwards' story of growing up poor, and how he worked hard to be the successful man he is.

I'd like to see a woman win, or even a black man win. Hillary is a calculated witch who in my opinion who is more like Gerge W. Bush than her own husband. Barak is more like Bill Clinton. Frankly, I've seen enough W and enough BC!

In the general, if it's Mc Cain vs. Hillary— I am voting for John Mc Cain.

You are proud of a 7 ft man was able to put Hillary down..well if he did..I wouldn't brag to much.

Hillary couldn't answer Edward whether she was going to keep the lobbyist out of the Lincoln bedroom from day one….Gold help america

OBAMA WAS NOT NASTY. HILIARY AND JOHN WAS. ESPECIALLY HILIARY. SHE DOESN'T LIKE OBAMA BECAUSE, HE'S BLACK.

Hillary is too divisive, the anti-Bush will never be able to unite any Dems with Rep. Obama is the face of change. The Bushes are gone and we don't need another round of Clintons. I dislike their tactics and assaults of their rivals. I can only imagine what they would do to Edwards if he were second. We NEED an Obama candidate. I don't want Bill and Hillary back in the White House. She is NOT ready to take on McCain as she believes when it comes to war strategy. No matter who wins, nothing much is going to change anyway…the system is set up to replicate itself over and over again and this major "change" won't occur. We at least can unite, and far more Republicans will choose Obama over a Clinton. Nothing will be bring out the extremely anti-Hillary Republicans more than a Clinton on the ticket.

I thought the debate was interesting tonight. I thought that Edwards won, but it is easy to win a debate if you are not the front-running candidate. I thought Obama handled hismelf well, people often criticize him for his 'stuttering,' but it doesn't btoher me so much that a candidate actually takes the time to think through an answer before just giving us a well-rehearsed sound-bite. I was surprised to see him attack Clinton tonight becuase although the media has played it up all week that Obama and Clinton have been playing mudslinging politics I really only saw the mudslinging coming from the Clinton camp.

I feel bad for Obama because I see how hard he tries to avoid getting involved in the mudslinging and run a clean campaign about issues. However, the Clintons are wise and won't let him. Face it, the American public will not let him win if he chooses the high road and ignores the mudslinging than he is 'weak and unable to stand up against the REAL mudslinging that will come from the republicans.' If he attacks then people say he is, 'no better than Hilary and a liar who doesn't mean what he says.' And that is exactly the bind the Clinton camp wants to put him in to. Tonight I thought he did a good job, and I believe he crossed the line only once. Other than that one time I was more impressed by his performance than Clintons.

The debate was interesting. John Edwards had a good night. The truth is if you are really objective Hillary had the edge. I was so disapointed as I listened to Obama he is just not ready "for prime time." The Republicans will chew him up and spit him out in a national election. He is weak on experience…he cannot quickly respond…his record is weak.
He is a star in the Democratic Party but this is not his time. It is Hillary"s time!!! She has it all…if you are objective…and put your emotions aside…You know that what I am saying is true. WE NEED TO WIN…..AND HILLARY IS THE ONE. Don't be fooled by emotion or what you wish would happen. It will but it takes time and this is Hillary's time!!!

Linda Drake….I'm sorry to break this to you but you are wrong. In every caucaus and primary that has occurred thus far, Obama has garnered the most support among Independents. What has been Hillary's strength is the woman vote. It pushed her in New Hampshire and Nevada.

I'm not sure what polls you have been watching or not looking at, but Hillary has been the favorite for the Democratic nomination since 2006. When Democrats see Hillary they think of Bill as being in change.

OBAMA in '08!

John Edwards had an amazing performance tonight. He talked about the serious issues that face this nation, healthcare, the economy, Iraq and poverty in America. While Senators Clinton and Obama bickered, Edwards stayed on message and showed himself the most Presidential of the three. Edwards was both impressive in his depth of understanding on the substantive issues as well as very moving, most especially when he spoke of the single mother, who worked full-time, but still had to choose between paying the rent or the heating bill. People really need to take another look at this man and his message.

Clearly Obama has clinched this primary — even if John Edwards won on points in this debate. Polls show Edwards taking votes from Clinton- not from Obama. Also, we all needed to see if Obama was tough enough to stand up for himself — and was he ever!

Anti-Bush? Un-Bush? Well, at least none of you dubbed John Edwards as Bush-league, because he won the debate tonight if only because he stayed (somewhat) above the fray. The bickering demeaned the process for sure, but if one can see through the smoke and fire, it is evident that Senator Clinton exposed Senator Obama for what he is: an articulate, engaging man whose words contain more flip-flop fluff than substance. He needs 8-10 more years of experience and accomplishment, but I like his grace, ability to communicate, and ability to inject welcome levity into the fight. As for John Edwards, at least he doesn't have an accent. My vote in the South Carolina primary will be for Hillary Clinton.

I'm voting for Obama on Super Tuesday — is that national enough?

Hillary is terrible. Her race-baiting, political rancor has got to go. I've yet to hear her utter one original, productive thought. She's a lightweight.

The Democrats have a great opportunity to recapture the White House, unless Hillary gets the nod. If she's running against McCain, I'm voting Republican for the first time. I don't agree with McCain, but at least he's genuine.

Hillary sure got the whinner Obamama studdering all night. 100 not present is a spineless way to govern.

Nikita, you should actually read the Chicago newspapers that talk about Obama's history in relation to the slumlord accusation! It is stated that he did 5 hrs worth of work, while he was a JUNIOR lawyer! This was NOT his firm! I'm sorry but 5 hrs of work doesn't equate to working for a slumlord and the firm that he was at wasn't even working directly for the guy! People you need to go beyond what is said, especially from the Hillary camp and look up and check the facts yourselves! Hillary and Bill are completely full of fabrications, 1/2 truths, and total lies.

What you problem again, I'm waiting
January 21, 2008 11:13 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Race and Gender Aside

Tonight, Obama has proven himself to be the least qualified person to fill the position of President. He covered his tracks eloquently and continually flip-flopped on ideas that what he said is not what he meant. Obama is deliberately never clear in what he is saying, and in turn, leaving room to change his view on any issue. Edwards shined tonight helping dispel Obama indecisiveness and lack of accountability. When in a corner, Obama knows how to wiggle and slither out of any situation. Factually, Obama has failed to vote on important issues in order to preserve himself from any scrutiny. We need a candidate who is clear, we need a candidate who is concise, and we need a candidate who will stand up, be accountable, and lead the nation. Hillary Clinton is that person.

I think Hillary was right on point when she pointed out that Obama didn't take responsibility for his many "present" votes in the Illinois legislature. The Chicago Tribune called these votes were dodging issues for political reasons. Obaha likes to make personal attacks and then acts offended if anyone attacks him. He can't have it both ways.

I'm finding that the more I hear Obama the less I like him. I find his words and style to be arrogant. I don't think he is ready for the serious job of president.. Hillary seems to have a clear understanding of the concerns of both white and black Americans. Her health care plan makes no distinction between blacks and whites or any other group.

John Edwards helped himself tonight, but I think Hillary has the best chance to defeat the republicans in November. I found it interesting that on the CNN website pointed out that the poll that Edwards referred to showing him doing well against a republican candidate was very old and more recent polls showing both Hillary and Obama doing better than Edwards.

Obama looked very unprofessional and rattled in the first part of the debate. Clinton seemed much more knowledgable and calm throughout the exchanges. Clinton helped out her cause nationally.

It's interesting to read everyone's reactions to tonight's debate. I'm an Obama fan, and I was proud of him for standing up to Hillary Clinton and her mudslinging.Other people saw it in a different light, colored by who they were already pulling for.

I'm going to vote for Obama in my state's primary (which is in March, well after Super Tuesday), but I'll happily vote for any of these candidates in November.

I HAVE (ED) ELECTION DYSFUNCTION, I CAN'T RISE TO EITHER PARTIES CANDIDATES.

Watch for this story line to develop:

Wolf Blitzer put both Obama and Edwards on the spot as to whether or not their healthcare plans would cover illegal immigrants. He let Clinton off the hook by not asking it directly.

Anyone want to bet whether we see some winking and nodding to the Latino community over the next 3 weeks that Senator Clinton would indeed cover illegals? I'd be willing to put the money I won on the Giants win last weekend that it will be used by the Clinton spin machine to win what will be the decisive constituency on Super Tuesday.

Bush Clinton Bush Clinton = NO WAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Edwards may be talking about the same issues for eight years. But that's because those issues are important to him and he hasn't been given the chance to act on them. Edwards would have beaten Bush four years ago if he were on the top of the ticket instead of Kerry.

The first half of the debate was a slugfest of accusations and slurs. Second half, the viewer was exposed to a used car avertisement from each participant.

Kudos to CNN for letting go control of the debate. It was entertaining to see Wolf B. so shook up, he couldn't find the camera man to sign off. LOLROF

It is interesting that as soon as Obama uses the same type of strong words that the Clintons have been using for the past month or so, that people start calling him "nasty." I saw another blog where someone said he was "scary."

Are people buying into "The Birth of a Nation"?

Examine yourselves.

The "debate" disgusted me. Dennis Kucinich should have been there to offer an alternative to being forced to pay into the corrupt private health insurance industry, and because he is the only PEACE candidate. These politicians are so slimy, and Kucinich is the only one with any integrity, foresight, and apparently, a brain.

I am not happy with CNN, Time/Warner, or whoever is shoving these gross candidates down our throats.

Linda, you are really kidding yourself!!! Months and months ago, the nation had Hillary as the "Front RUNNER" in this race; no one even heard of Obama. Today, she is struggling to even be heard by majority of the people in this nation. All she can actually do is advocate the needs of the "blind democrats." Obama wants to pull every American together to RE-BUILD the deficits (moral etc.) of this nation.

Your data is also wrong!!! Reading this post alone, there are SEVERAL Independents, including myself, who will be willing to vote for Obama in this and the GENERAL elecetion but will NEVER cast a single vote for Hillary/Bill.

I was a democrat until Hillary entered this race!!!

Most of my fellow Independents would PREFER to get any REPUBLICAN back in the White House than the Clintons. They have soiled the White House with all sorts of scandals and do not deserve a "third-term." So, it is up to Democrats like you, to lose this race to the Republicans.

OK Let us look at this realistically and historically. Republicans are not going to vote for Barack Obama. He can evoke Reagan's name if he want but guess what? The republican candidate will too. Republicans in these blogs who say "I am seriously considering Barack Obama" say that because they have not chosen their nominee yet and because it sounds good. As soon as their nominee is picked be it McCain, Romney or even Huckabee they will vote for him. Period. The end. Fall for that fake game if you want but Obama's force of personality does not work on everybody and he does not have the goods in experience to win against any of the republican candidates (except maybe Huck) in a one on one comparision. There goes your independents ESPECIALLY against McCain.

Obama called out the Clintons and their dirty tactics. The Clintons aren't for black or white. They are all about green.

Big deal Obama billed 5 hours as an associate for a questionable client. He was an ASSOCIATE. Do you know how much an Associate has to do with selected clients? It's not like he was a Partner! Even more so 5 hours isn't even a days worth of work. Hillary on the other hand served years on the Monopolistic, theive's board that is Walmart, who currently has a class action disrimination lawsuit against them from thousands of female employees. I ask you.,who's integerity do we really have to question ? Billary is old and out…

OBAMA IN '08 !!!!

Edwards won the debate, as he did the last one, and he is the best candidate for the General Election. He inspires.

For those of you who like Edwards but indicated that you will not vote for him, think again. In the General Election many voters will never vote for Clinton; Obama is trying to woo Republicans even though many will never vote for him. Edwards distinguishes himself from any of the Republicans, he is the Democrats best candidate.

I like that this article states that the campaigns have different goals but I disagree with the anti-bush un-bush argument. I think this a battle between a relative new comer to politics and someone who has been in on winning governor races, presidential races, and Senate races. People seem to forget that when they talk about Obama as if he was on par with Hillary Clinton. I loved it when the media got it wrong in New Hampshire stating Obama was going to run away with it and then in Nevada the press said the Culinary Union gave Obama the advantage. When he lost both times the press for a day go on and on how the Clinton campaign had a strategy and really had the advatage for a long time. One thing is really clear Hillary Clinton's campaign seems to always plan the campaign out three or four steps ahead and when you finally catch up the media is going oh that's what the Clinton's had planed all along. I want a President