CNN

the problem with Obama in the debate, was not all the questions asked could be answered with quotes from his speeches.

The debate in South Carolina was an actual debate. Thank you candidates. No more pretense of "having tea" while we "discuss" what the public would like us to say. Gloves off. Issues debated with a passion. Loved it. I think Hillary can take care of herself and folks, Bill isn't running. Hillary is. Get over it. Also, I'd like any American (despite all the Republicans giving their views of a past President) to think of this: Would you take the Bill Clinton Presidency and our country's economic and social state (even with the brutal attacks thrown his way by Bush Sr. and a Congress whose majority we still don't have as Dems) or this war, the recession, the way we're now hated in most of the world, and the fact that homeowners (let alone business people) are barely holding on. Also, despite the fact that Clinton left the only and largest surplus in history....Pres. George W. spent it all within the first nine months of this sham of an Administration. Watch Frontline's "Cheney's War", and you'll get a real picture of how George Bush was chosen to "front" the real makers of this mess....Cheney, Rove, and Bush Sr. The debate was for thinkers and not for those who believe rumors and untruths. Kenneth Lay didn't find anything to indict Bill over because every piece of questionable "get him" antics came up with nothing. Also folks, Hillary is running...not Bill. She's quite capable, and as Bill said, she's the real "Brains of the family". I believe it. Don't patronize a woman who is strong nor condemn her if you didn't like her husband. I still say I'd like under a Clinton administration of any kind for years not to return to the ruination of our Democracy under the Bushes. No one is blaming Elizabeth Edwards, Michelle O'Bama, nor any other "Female" spouse when trying to blame Barack for not having the answers one would like. I guess we're still in the "no woman or Black man" era after all. Give me a break! For those still not satisfied with Hillary Clinton....just listen for a change. She has answers...not generalizations. Most "amateur pundits" are spouting any and all things heard on ultra-conservative radio or in their churches. The Clintons are not evil people. They are passionate about this country. Is that a sin also???

How smug of Hillary to claim that "it's not about the spouses." Bill and Hill have been a team since day 1, and a national disgrace to boot. Finger-wagging "above the law" Bill is looking for that 3rd term in the White House on a technicality. Here's a guy who had sex in the Oval office and was impeached by the House. She's a blatant lier and power monger. She's got her "secret police" out there smearing anyone who stands in her way. The two of them are steeped in sleez and have no scruples whatsoever. Did anyone really listen to what Hillary said in the debate? Totally superficial, no substance. At least Obama seems sincere.

I'm getting tired of hearing about Hillary's "experience." Eight years living in the White House as a spouse, while somewhat insightful, does not count as actual presidential experience. Eight years in the Senate, as claimed by Hillary, is also a "stretch" since she was only elected seven years ago and has been campaigning full time for the past year. Under her theory, Sox should be running since the cat also lived in the White House for eight years. None of this demonstrates an ability to function in an executive capacity at this level. Senators do not run anything but their own campaigns (and Bill is running Hillary's). The (hopefully) decide on legislation, but that is NOT executive experience in making the tough decisions and managing the massive bureacracy of the Federal Government. She may get points for "style" in her new presentation, but her lack of integrity in describing her actual expertise is worrysome.

hilary tough?

did she loose her voice and cried after loss in Iowa? if she cries after only one defeat in primary how tough she is?

hilary found her voice?

the voice is of Bill Clinton was what she found. Bill is so loud after iowa that sometimes it is ugly for the ex-president. and the reality is hilary is the face of bill clintons "first Laddie" campaign. where was bill in 2000 and 2004 campaigns? busy preparinng ground for his wife? with Gore and Kerry lost, brought Hilary's target closer.

Hilary is experienced?
without undermining her qualification, is her experience and achievements not rooted in her husband's image? and even now, is she not riding on Bill to win the nomination? if so who will be the real president if she is elected?

i think chelsea will have 8+8=16 years of white house experience if she runs for the democratic candidate in 2016.

Race campaign?

bill and hilary is potraying Obama as a "Black" and dividing the americans towards a racial lines which she expects will benefit her being a "white and Woman" .

Obama campaign instead is trying to stay away from the racial campaign. Obama's campaign is different from shaprton and Jesse Jackson, in my opinion, they could not get themselves above their races.the campaign could not go beyond "Black first policy".

the success of Obama in that his campaign is not dominated by his race. he won iowa where 93% voters are white, in NH he got strong second where 96% voters are white. Obama is a "American who happens to be black".

Comments from some black clinton supporters "Obama is not Black enough" "acting like White" are shameless and are still patronizing racial division.

what percent of the us voters are black? to win a presidential nomination and win an election in the US, you have to come above your race. Obama is doing just that. and the nation is ready for a "Black" president.

CNN gave Obama way too much time to talk vs. the other candidates last night. I was tired of hearing him talk.

I liked the fact that they generally kept their sense of humor, particularly during the second half of the debate. There were some good 'zingers' in the first half. I didn't care for the way Hillary and Barack quibbled over some of the same old things that really don't seem to matter. I liked the way John Edwards generally kept on message and continued to insert himself in the debate when ignored. I didn't like the way he revisited the 'present vote' controversy after it had already been answered. In short, I found things to like and dislike about each candidate.
I wasn't particularly surprised by anything I saw or heard – with the possible exception of Barack's comment that he would have to see if Bill Clinton could dance before determining if he was a 'brother'. I'm a little surprised he hasn't been called to task for using that stereotype. To his defense, it was a vacuous question to begin with. So, ask a stupid question, get a stupid answer.
The more I watch these, the closer I get to Edwards. No, it wouldn't be an historic vote – not like voting for a black man or a woman. But he seems to most closely mirror the values of traditional democrats, such as myself, and he seems to be truly fired up by his convictions. He's on a crusade, while the other two are interviewing for a job. I like that enthusiasm.

The "poor showing" award for last night's debate goes to CNN–hardly the product of the best political reporters on TV.
The questions were irrelevant to policy issues, sarcastic, divisive, and insulting. The first half-hour was almost solely on race–a great way to distract people from real issues, as the GOP has been doing since 1964 (and the Dixiecrats did before that).
Wolf Blitzer acted like a sports announcer looking to promote a hockey brawl. He totally lost control of the candidates, and allowed them to bicker among themselves and keep away from the real issues of policy, capability and character. He also didn't give Edwards a chance to get a word in edgewise.
Asking Obama about the Toni Morrison quote was absurd. Poets speak in metaphor; parsing those metaphors is not what we shuld expect a politician to do. His answer about "checking out Bill Clinton's dancing" was appropriate to the low quality of the question.

Hillary probably got set up by Obama and Edwards and she fell in the trap.

I am outraged that a woman would behave this way. Hillary's behavior was school yard trash. She is a disgrace.

In the past weeks the Clintons have really shown who they are to Americans. We should all take a good look and keep it in mind.
Another 4 years with the Clintons is not what this country needs.

A dictatorship is not what this country needs.

America does not need the Clintons running the USA again.

oh and another thing... for all of you who under the impression that presidential candidacy isn't and/or shouldn't be personal, you're dead wrong. Debates should be heated, positions should be fiercely defended, and blemishes need to pointed out. These candidates are running for the highest office in our country, and if they intend to lead us, their social convictions better be personal.

Furthermore, you cannot be passive in the face of an aggressive world, an aggressive economy, and aggressive world leaders; you have to be able to defend yourself and the United States. Tenacity is a great thing when coupled with wisdom.

Darrin-John Mc Cain is 71 years old. By the time his 1st term is up, he'll be 75-76 yrs. old. That's getting "up there" for the rigors of what a presidency would entail (esp. with the massive problems inherited). I think older folks can really give alot through their experience, but for the presidency, I think this age is rather prohibitive.

The debates seem to have convinced all of us that we have picked the right candidate and there is no reason to change our minds. That's nice. I hate to change my mind.

Everyone hates the bickering and attacks, but they work. We hate the attacker, but we hate the person who was attacked a little more. Psychological experiments have shown that when a person is attacked (verbally), that most people figure he must deserve it or he wouldn't have been attacked.

I spoke to a person who had been on jury duty. She told me that she voted for conviction because she figured the police would not have arrested the guy if he hadn't been guilty. Besides, she went on, if they arrested him he was probably a pretty shady character. If he wasn't guilty of the offense he was charged with, he was surely guilty of something else just as serious.

What happened last night is exactly what CNN wanted to happen. Obama was baited by a question about a Hillary attack, and, surprise, the sparks flew.

Shame on CNN for sensationalizing an important debate. Please ask questions about the issues, not ones like "Do you think Bill Clinton is really the first Black president?" Pathetic.

The high school politics came out in the debate. I"m tired of the fighting and pointing fingers. Democrats please act like adults! Please lets leave race out of this just once. This country is in trouble. Lets stick with the issues. Obama I never liked Regan! Hillary Clinton will be our next President.

Learned alot last eve-Obama's health care plan sounds good for who? Do the people voting for him understand that it may not cover everyone? It sounds tentative, at best. Even if you like and respect the man-look at what he's saying. To me, he is akin to a slick talking lawyer. He may have a "dream" and a "vision" for America, but could you really trust him to fulfill it? We have so many problems-economy, war, health care, immigration reform, foreign affairs, etc..-Do we want to risk someone who is a relative newbie to reform these problems? Scares me.

1. I am a registered Independent; have been for over two years. Although I haven’t commited to any party or candidate, I have been leaning slightly toward Senator Obama. Until I decide where to apply my vote, one thing I’m sure about is “he can do better than what I’ve been seeing and saw last night. He has an authentically fresh and enthusiastic outlook”. DON’T LET THE CLINTONS PULL YOU DOWN. Stay above the fray. State what you’ve accomplished, your positions and plans on our Countries Issues. State the TRUTH and make a COMMITMENT to keep the promises you make. The American public, of which I’m apart of, WANTS TO GET IT RIGHT THIS TIME; IT’S OUR FUTURE. Also, it’s annoying to me to see how the former President has initiated this current bickering. Remember Bill, Lincoln was inexperienced and he is considered to be the “BEST OF THE BEST” of all our Presidents. One last thing, ALL you AUTHENTIC AND REPUTABLE politicians of ANY political leaning that have decided for Obama; GET SOME GUTS and DO THE RIGHT THING; get out there in your various states and proclaim PUBLICALLY your support for Obama and WHY! This petty bickering and political polarizationg is killing my American dream. …………. Bob Diaz

All those who said Obama was too nice to play hardball are eating they're words. YIKES!

Obama was saying he thought the maximum interest rate in the bill should be lower than 30%. The credit card companies can now send a credit card with a 29% interest rate to consumers and be protected by law. Obama favored a maximum more in the amount of the 23-25% range. I would think this should be easy enough to understand. Also, reasoning politicans don't just vote yes or no, if there are parts of a bill they don't like but parts they don't. They either don't vote or they vote present. The alternative is to vote for a bill like Hillary Clinton did with the bankruptcy bill - even though she was against it - and end up being "relieved" that it didn't pass. I'm probably going to vote for Ron Paul, but some of the comments regarding the Obama's "shortcomings" in the debate are so ridiculous and biased that I had to say something.

What is so hard to understand? The sources are out there! Hillary and Bill are distorting his words and voting record. I am truly at a loss for words and in disbelief at how gullible people can be.

I hope John Edwards stays in this race, because when Clinton and Obama end up killing each other, Edwards will still be standing. If Edwards does not end up as the Democratic nominee, I hope he will be picked up as the vice-presidential nominee.

I will back any Democrat against any Republican. The biggest reason for me is the future of the Supreme Court. We simply cannot give the outright majority to Scalia, Alito, Roberts and Thomas. My husband and I might just have to retire to Canada.

It is sad to see that cnn did not post Obama's full comments in regards to Clinton's accusation that he had ties to a slum lord. First of all, Obama said that he worked for a community organizing group that just happened to have this man on the long list of cliental; he went further to say that he only worked on an issue regarding that client for a mere five hours. Clinton distorted Obama's record to make it seem like he was working "hand-in-hand" with a slum lord. Also, Obama returned fire saying that while Clinton was working as a lawyer on the board for the huge corporation "Wal-mart," he was active serving in his community as an organizer and a civil servant.

This news station is increasingly disappointing, with your debates allowing "booing," and the like, from the crowd. Likewise, your moderation of the Nevada debate made it appear as though I was watching an episode of "American Gladiators" rather than a debate between the possible representatives of Americans throughout the world.

ps. Wolf Blitzer is blatantly pro-Clinton. If you watch the debate closely you will notice that he softens his tone when he asks her a question, and his co-questioners continually lob her "softball" questsions.

Obama debated for S.C., which he will win. Hillary debated for a national audience. And she won. The fact that only Bill remains in S.C. and that Hillary has moved on, in my opinion, confirms my point. And yes, Obama did break a promise given by all democratic candiates of not campaigning in Florida by running ads on CNN. I am surprised no one has called him on that yet. However, it appeared to me last nice, that Edwards seemed to be going after Obama more than usual. Perhaps he was upset about this dirty little trick. Who knows.

Brother Obama would make a good modern day MLK. Yes we can, praise the Lord, yes we can. Minister or President the difference is a great divide.

I think Edwards is going to team up with Hilary as the vice president. He focuses more attention bringing down Obama where in previous debates he focused more on Hilary.

Before you vote for Hilary ask the question about her Health Care policy, Who pays for all the people who cannot afford health care? If she mandates Health Insurance companies to cover everyone, then that cost will be added to all those people and employers who pay for health insurance. That means higher premiums in order to compensate covering others who cannot afford to pay. If government helps to offset the cost then our tax dollars are paying for it. Either way, the middle class will be paying for it.

I'm very disappointed in CNN's and Wolf Blitzer's handling of these debates. His loaded questions and time cutoffs are so obviously biased for Clinton. Every news outlet and blog I've read on these debates have mentioned this issue. It looks bad CNN, really disgraceful. What happened to objective journalism?

Hillary Clinton is a strong, articulate, intelligent woman running for president. In the minds of many Americans a women can't do the job. I think Hillary is showing us time and time again just how tough she can be. If she were a man I think the negative comments would be completely different. As president, she would get the job done, no doubt about it.

Obama remains the only candidate who never answers a direct question and gives a deceive answer. He talks his way out of answers by side-tracking the public with things they want to hear. It is easy to say what money we could have spend on road and highways, etc., instead of the war, but again he never gives the public a truthful answer of where he stands on any issue. The public should listen to the questions asked and pay attention to his answers. Obama is not experienced enough to be president of the United States. He is not honest enough to be president. Being in politics for three years does not give you enough knowledge to try and pin yourself against other experienced candidates, who can literally walk into the White House and get to work for the people of the United States of America. The economy and the world, is going to be in such a mess by November, that we will need the strength, courage and know-how of Hillary Clinton.

This bickering will only help the Republicans if it continues to get worse and the bitter feelings carry into the general elections, but that is all patched up if Hillary wins and she selects Obama as VP.

That said, I don't think McCain can pull in enough Dems and Indies to win unless we have another terrorist attack or things get worse in Iraq. He is a lame duck when it comes to economy which I think will be the big issue in November. His economic strategy in Michigan was, "Life's tough. Deal with it". He is not our best candidate, because he is a one act show.

Obama started the nasty fight. He acts as if he is superior to all other! Very arrogant person.... he was disrespectful to John Edwards too.

I watched the debate last night with full attention! I still VERY DEFINETLY plan to vote for Hillary! You go Girl!

I was once impressed by Obama, but after last night just hearing his name gives me the creeps. What a nothing! His record is so dismal all he could do is try and be aggressive with non-issues and his plans are so non-formed that he doesn't stand a chance with any voter who has a brain!

Hillary is still the best shot we have to return to decades of Peace and Prosperity!

Obama wanted to show his captive audience that he could take on Clintons on his territory. But, Hillary was too strong for him and showed that she is not Dukakus. Obama had no business to blame on Hillary's role on Wal Mart when he rightfully got about his role to join hands with a Chicago slum lord. He had no answers on his health plan, his 130 voting records as "present", praising Reagan (to suck up republican votes??). He may succeed in SC because of the black votes. But,come Feb 5, he has no chance.

When you listen to the Republican comments, they tend to favor Obama. Now wonder why they would favor him and try to belittle Hillary? Could it be that they would rather face him than her in the general election? Could it be that they think their chances are better if Obama wins the Democratic nomination? Do they think it would be harder for their candidate to beat Hillary?

All of the Democratic candidates would be better than what we now have and what we could have.

I'm voting for experience,
for the one who has the best chance to win,
and the one that has a former President as an asset.

People are showing up in record numbers to vote, but we need to elect the best candidate.

Think people, think.

I will vote for Hillary Clinton.

John Edwards and Hillary Clinton did well. Very knowledgable and clear what they want to do for us, Americans. Of all three, Obama was the worst. Obama was stammering, stuttering. He was so bad I was very embarrassed for him.

I thought Hillary did the best. Calling Obama on his Tony Rezko scandal, on his misconstrued Iraq votes, on his Republican talking points, on his present votes and his credit card vote – she did a GREAT job.

I want a fighter in the Whitehouse, I'm tired of talkers....Hillary's got my vote.

Go Hillary! Hang in there! The haters are always trying to knock you down, but you keep standing my friend!

I believe that the American people are looking for a candidate who is well- qualified and will govern from the center.

There are many Independents and conservative Democrats who lean towards the center; they do not want anyone too far to the left or too far to the right.

Thus, as an Independent who has sometimes supported conservative Democrats and who sometimes has supported more liberal Republicans, I belive that the Republicans must nominate a centrist to beat the Democrats in the general election. I believe that Huck could beat either Obama or Clinton. I think McCain would beat Obama and would run very close to Hillary (it would be a toss up). I think Huck would be able to carry the South against either Democrat. I do not belive that Romney and some of the more conservative Republicans can carry the South.

There are going to be many people who see Obama as too far to the left and Romney and some of the other Republican candidates as too far to the right. So, if the Republicans really want to win, they will need to nominate someone towards the center.

So, yes, I belive that if the Republicans fail to nominate a centrist who can pull the Independent vote (either Huck or McCain), they will lose.

There are those that would like to paint Hillary as too far to the left. I do not think that they will be successful in the general election. Obama has helped Hillary in that respect; now people see that there really are viable candidates that are to the left of Hillary. If Hillary is up against another candidate that many see as too far to the right, she will be seen as the candidate that is more to the center and more qualified.

Frank Katzler:

You have a point, but you are forgetting that Condi travels to the middle east alot, so they may be somewhat used to a woman. Also, dont forget people like Bhutto.

All the Democrat supporters need to stop and take a deep breath. Obama had to come out strong in this debate as well as Edwards. With all the allegations and drama started by Bill and Hillary Clinton ill-advised comments about Obama, he had to forcefully try to set the record straight. Edwards looked good because the other candidates were not paying attention to him. Clinton and Obama are clearly the front-runners in the Democratic nomination process. In this debate Obama looked the best and here's why. Obama was best prepared technically talking about the economy and Iraq. Also he spoke eloquently on a broad range of issues. He summarized his short-term economic stimulus plan and drew contrast to Edwards and Hillary's plan. Edwards didn't have a short-term plan and Hillary didn't have a tax rebate in her plan although now she supports having one.

On Iraq, Obama summarized that his exit strategy involved moving out 1 to 2 combat brigades out per month. Edwards said he end all combat missions and get all combat troops out. That is a very general and non-specifc answer. And poor Hillary repeated her stump statement. She touts she would start the process to begin withdrawing troops out of Iraq within 60 days of being sworn in. Each candidate is going to the start the process but how long it will take is the question. Hillary's response left a lot of wiggle room for her to backtrack later.

OBAMA in '08!

Obama did what he had to do. And that was confront Clinton.

I had a feeling Obama was going to lose it at the debate lastnight,
because he has such a angry look on his face. His mannerisms were were
showing hostility. Then he proceeded to do opposite of everything he
claims. 'Let's move on, but first.......' 'Stop attacking, but [I'll
slander Bill Clinton for claiming he's lying'] let me attack Bill Clinton
and you'. Like a child having a temper tantrum, he went way beyond
anything he could ever claim 'other Washington politicians' to have done.

"Obama: Is Bill Clinton really a 'brother'? I'd have to see him dance"

I was surprised that it's ok for Obama to make that comment, but if
someone else, like Lou Dobbs, Imus, or HECK EVEN BILL CLINTON himself made
that comment , everyone would be screaming RACIST. But it was OK for
Barack to make that stereo typical comment, huh?

Hypocrisy runs deep with him.

And then his comment that John Edwards would receive the "white mans vote".
Nice, huh?

Now reports are that he is breaking a campaign promise and will campaign
in Florida. Check please.

Democrats complain about Republicans who like to get dirty but I saw more mud slinging last night. Granted politics is tough, was the debate really about the issues.

Politics is tough and Hillary is smart. Obama is quick on his feet, smart, and great speaker... why did he take the bate?

It shows that when it comes to Obama and Hillary, they are not about the country but themselves. Obama could have taken the high round and still gotten a respectful jab back. He didn't. This really turns me off to politics.

Don't count Romney out. Florida was will be the real test not these other primaries. SC is not the predictor in his race... moving the dates up changed everything including the delegate counts for states like SC. Michigan actually had more delegates.

Polls show that Romney is ahead in Florida. Lets not let the media bait you in thinking McCain has a chance. I am looking forward to the Republican debates now. Guiliani is coming out swinging on his website against... MCCAIN. Interesting.... Awhile back it was, dog pile on Romney on the Republican side and Romney never took the bate. I like Guiliani but that whole police commissioner think really makes me wonder. They were really good friends. We need someone who can take the good fight to the democrats... based on issues. Romney still has a chance. He owns up to his mistakes and has a clean past.

All of the Democratic candidates... there is no big difference on the issues. It is their persona as a leader that is coming in to question. Romney is one of the view candidates who has a stark differences on ALL issues between the democratic candidates.

Romney also has a bold, pro-growth stimulus package that deals with tax cuts, pro-growth economy items, which means jobs, jobs jobs - AND also deals with the housing crisis.

If you considered about the war in Iraq, which out what they all say on their web sites. The only candidate who is calling for immediate withdraw is Ron Paul and he is Republican. Hillary doesn't say they will be out in 60 days but she will start working on getting them out in 60 days. Obama says we need to be careful getting out but not sure that means he plans on getting us out right away, 1 year or 10 years from now.

I am republican but I check out both sides because I want to know exactly who is going to be running the country. Be careful America, many blogs are spinning the commentary into the so-called facts on both sides.

By way, Romney's Dad did march with MLK. There are witnesses. It is not foxnews. Go look at up. Romney just made the mistake of saying he also marched with MLK, which he is admitted.

The media has been slanted towards Obama not Hillary. I could see this and I am republican. Same goes for the media towards McCain. They have been seriously down playing his wins. They cannot ignore him now because it just looks foolish now.

I am a Latina and a Republican because I believe in personal responsibility. You have to believe in yourself and this country to see real change. I don't like this where this race war is going because I think it self-defeating attitude. I want a President who is positive, strong, proven leader and who is prepared to start working on the problems of America.

We have made major strides in this country. Come on... we have a woman, black man and mormon running for president? The fact that each of these candidates has a shot at the presidency should speak to everyone about how far we have come.

Educating yourself on issues is the only way Americans can truly gain political power - both democrats and Republicans. Education is available everywhere in this country and provides a means out of poverty but people have to stop listening to all this self-defeating attitudes. If we all play the blame game, who is actually taking personal responsibility.?

Obama has is only political shawdow in his wife Michelle and her own ties to Walmart.

Wal-Mart. Barack Obama should not throw stones considering that his wife sits on the board a food company that has profited from heavily from Wal-Mart.

The following quotes are from an article from a British news outlet (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml?xml=/news/2007/05/13/wobama13.xml )

" ...she has just been re-elected to the board of an Illinois food-processing company, a position she took up two years ago..."

"....the biggest customer for the pickles and peppers produced by Treehouse Foods is the retail giant Wal-Mart, the world's largest corporation and the bête noire of American liberals, including Sen Obama..."

"....According to the couple's tax returns, Mrs Obama earned $51,200 (£25,700) for her work as a non-executive director on Treehouse's board last year, on top of the $271,618 salary she was paid as a vice-president of the University of Chicago Hospitals.She also received 7,500 Treehouse stock options, worth a further $72,375, as she did the previous year, when she banked a $45,000 salary from the company....."

"...According to Treehouse's financial filings, Wal-Mart accounted for 16.1 per cent of its sales last year, up from 11.7 per cent in 2005 (a 37 per cent increase), comfortably making it the company's biggest customer. Treehouse's annual operating profits rose from $28 million two years ago to $84 million (up 200 per cent) in 2006." I wonder how much the average worker got in raises or bonuses do to this Wal-Mart profits???? Michelle apears to have gotten a 12% raise and as well as a big bonus.

Clinton makes me sick – both of them. I am a die hard democrat, but I have grown to actively despise both of them. Mrs. talks out of both sides of her mouth. First she says that the community organizing work that Obama did after law school doesn't count as experience, and then she includes her own community work in her resume. She can't have it both ways.

I absolutely loved it that Obama got to bring up Clinton's comment about "I voted for it, but was glad it didn't pass." She's polarizing, patronizing, and condescending. We don't need a President who can't even agree with her own party (ie. the Michigan primary).

If you want a Republican to be President again, go ahead and support Clinton. If you want vision, honesty and integrity, support Obama. Sorry Edwards, but your best bet is a VP spot.

I say good for John Edwards! Someone has to stay above this grade school play-ground bickering thats going on. I can't see the infighting helping the party in the fall. Now all we need to do is get the media to pay attention to him.

Edwards definitely won last night. Clinton and Obama are doing exactly what they are campaigning against...the same old politics and tactics. I don't see much 'change' in how they are trying to win the election. Leave it to CNN to interprete the debate as a Clinton vs Obama contest...they have been biased against Edwards from the beginning. CNN: are you going to edit this comment out?

Hillary is only riding bill's coat tails like she did in 2000 she whould be nothing if her name was not Clinton and she also has a limited voting record she only has a record from 2000 and that is it

Hillary is only riding bill's coat tails like she did in 2000 she whould be nothing if her name was not Clinton and she also has a limited voting record she only has a record from 2000 and that is it

The S.C. debate Monday night Jan 21st show cased and re-affirmed the Clinton history of devisive politics. If Hillary Clinton gets elected to the presidency it will just be a continuation of the Bush / Clinton Washington Wars. The Democratic & Republican Party Wars will continue with more of the same old hate, slash, and burn that comes out of Washington. Meanwhile nothing positive or great will be moving forward to help the American people.

Hillary Clinton is the same as or the equivolent of being nothing more than George Bush's sister wrapped in a Blue Flag. Like Geoge Bush she will bring nothing positive to the table but bad ideas and devisive tactics. It's time to put new leadership in charge of Washington from top to bottom, or bring on a third party that will have new leaders and new ideas.

Folks you have just witnessed eight years of hell under George Bush and Hillary is only going to make it another eight. The Democratic Party could probably run a dog and win this election. Lets get America going in a new direction. Tell Hillary good-bye!

Seems like out of all the debates, the lesser issue is the economy. To me, it seems like the housing market is over shadowing the truth of our economy. Living in America, following the pursuit of happiness, has been dimmed through the cost of that pursuit. I feel that the reason for poverty and the lack of affording insurance all comes down to the economy and how strong it is. I don't understand, living in America, why gasoline is $3.00 plus a gallon. I don't understand why milk is $4.00 plus a gallon. When we have to pay these prices, individuals on low and fixed incomes can only fall into the category of poverty. It is easy, senator Clinton, Senator Obama, and even President Bush to fill their car up everytime they stop at a service station. The high prices do NOT affect their wallet or their decisions to have to do without certain items that are required in everyday life. So, when we talk about poverty and the issues of healthcare and the housing market why don't we look at what got us into this situation? It was the economy.

I watched the debate last nite , again following Larry .
The KID GLOVE was taken and that was from OBAMA. he came out bleeding all over the face at the end.
Hillary was SHARP and with a good grasp of the governmental affair and to the point.
Obama ( PREACHER) was speechless and stuttering .

We caucused for Obama here in Nevada and went to hear him speak at several rallies across the State of Nevada. I think he is growing as a politician and it is good to see that growth. That said, Hillary will say or do anything to get elected and as intelligent as Obama is he seems to be niave about that. Take it to her man! Sometimes you just have to get "south side". I was glad to see him get upset at the debate, late but good. Also, I thought it was great to see Hillary stick to her "fighting the Republicans" argument and then to see Obama say he would work with the Republicans. I thought that his clear departure from her old world way of doing things was refreshing, I just want to see this guy take the gloves off and fight for the election. Hillary is corrupt and I want to see him stop taking the high road and knock this lady and her bootleg husband to the curb. Obama continues to bring a knife to a gun fight.

After watching the debate on national TV yesterday i came to the understanding of one thing, All three have bad history Some more than others and if you really look at Hillary's face when she answered Obama on his question of the walmart board you know she was in a corner and the only way out was to have a comeback with an invalid argument. Up until yesterday i had no clue whom to vote for but clearly now i will go with Obama. and If Obama is out of the race then believe it or not i will be going with Romney and if he is out as well then there is no point in voting.

As an undecided voter, I am so sick and tired of all the childish bickering between Hilary Clinton and Obama! I watch the debate and was very appalled at the way Obama avoided answering the questions they were asked. If Mr. Obama can not tell the truth while in a debate, how will he tell the truth if he is elected president?? When he was asked by Mrs. Clinton about voting "present" he responded by saying that he "wrote the bill" in question but then he realized that the bill had problems. Now, if he wrote the bill, how come he didn't see the "problem" before he put it before a vote? He defends the accusations put before him without answering the accusation. Is this the kind of president I want??? The answer is no. It has nothing to do with race or sex, it has to do with being honest to the american people. When I heard that Oprah was supporting Obama, I had to wonder. She had made the statement many times on her show that she was for the women. That women should reach their goal to be on top. Now, we have a black man running for president and she forgets what she stands for!!! I no longer watch Oprah. She seems to have many people fooled, especially women. If a women or man votes for anyone just because a TV personality says so, They are not voting on their own. Everybody seems to be talking about "black poverty", what about the many whites who are living in poverty? Mr. Edwards seems to be the only one who realizes that poverty is not a race or gender issue. Poverty affects all colors, all races, all creed, all sexes and all religions. It is NOT just a black issue!! In our day and time, whites like blacks are discrimiated against everyday. Mr. Obama "does not want to sell the american people short" but on the other hand, he refrains from telling the american people any truth. When he was asked about universal health care and illegal aliens, Mr. Obama just answered "no". Mr. Edwards replied by saying that his plan includes a safety net and illegal aliens would be covered when they became legal. Mr. Edwards seems to be the intelligent canidate and I believe Mr. Edwards actually cares about our country and what happens to it. I am disable so health care is a very important issue. I am currently unable to receive adequate care even though I have medicare. It is so easy for the other canidates to talk about tax rebates, social security, jobs and whatever they want to talk about. It seems that only Mr. Edwards cares about people like me who are on a limited income and just can not afford to pay $3.00/gal for gas. Each month I have to make a decision as to whether I can buy groceries, get my medication, see my doctor or even go to church. In america, this should not be so. People, like me, who have a chronic disease or who are on limited income are just pushed to the side and forgotten. Mr. Edwards gives me hope that things in the united states can be brought back under control. I do not feel like he had the opportunity to really share his thoughts and ideas during the debate due to Obama and Clintons bickering. It is a sad day in America when the truth is not spoken by those who are requesting our vote. Just as Mr. Edwards said, it is not him or anybody else, black or white, male or female, that should tell a person how to vote. As for me, I am still undecided. Currently, I am leaning strongly towards Mr. John Edwards. If for some reason, he does not win the democratic election, I will more than likely be forced to vote for a repulican nominee.

Hillary Clinton boasted how her (voting) records prove she is more hawkish in middle east policies than Insane mcCain (and how that's gonna help her beat Insane McCain). She is certainly pandering her main power / money / vote base (we'll never know whether she sincerely believes in her policy choices, but that's beside the point) by emphasizing her intention to continue and even escalate the historical and current bigoted inhumane disingenuous foreign policies that have harmed, and will harm further, the nation and the world.

Is that what the majority of the democratic voters want?????????????

I think all the bickering going on between Sen. Clinton and Sen. Obama is getting pretty childish. I like both canidates, but not the recent jabs at each other. They seem to be losing focus. They are suppose to be campaigning to be the leader of our United States of America and a representative of all of us whether Black, White, Indian, Asian, Hispanic, male, or female. They don't sound like leaders right now. I realize that history could be made with either a woman or African-American, but it seems like they are not the only canidates attempting to make history (well at least since the 22nd Amendment was enacted). It seems like former President Bill Clinton is running for another term in office.

Being a big fan of Bill Clinton as a President I cannot believe these tactics. He is shooting himself in the foot and possibly destroying Hillary's chances especially among male voters. She has virtually no chance of beating McCain in the general election. If he gets the nomination I and many other Democratic voters will jump ship for Mr. Mccain. If she goes up against Romney it is a different story, I believe she might well win that contest. I voted for Reagan the first time around and my top choice is Obama for many of the same reasons. Bill, keep it up and Obama will sweep into the nomination!

Hey folks, guess what, there is a 3rd democratic candidate out there and John Edwards gets my vote. I wish the media would stop playing on all of the Obama/Clinton hype and perpetuating the myth that they are the only act in town. If Hillary wins the nomination I will not vote for her. I don't trust her any more then I trust Bush and I HATE Bush! I would rather have Romney or McCain over Hillary any day and I am a very loyal democrat!

it was horrible to see what went on. i don't think any democrat liked the scuff that happened. although it was a great time for edwards to stand out and he took the the opportunity and ran with it. good for him and i feel he came out the best for being able to state his points. is it enough for him to gather more votes, time will tell.

hilary was looking fantastic from the start of the debate. she looked refreshed compared to the nevada debate. there was a glow to her face and her energy was on the spot.

obama was developing his wonderful speaking ability that has won over so many people. he has a way with his words that match previous great leaders in the world. able to move the their audiences. that is where he shines the most and it was starting to show. his performances during the debates are not stellar.

then the cat fight happened and both deflated. the glow and energy in clinton were gone and obama was on the defense for the rest of the debate. Saturday will be very interesting. i do wonder, how will everyone vote if their choice does not win the nomination? would you still vote dem. if edwards wins, obama wins, or clinton so that their won't be another republican in the white house? or will people be so spiteful and ruin the chances for the candidate that does get the nomination?

think about it, all three candidates are fantastic people are all working toward the same goals. it really is not going to be a loosing situation for the dems in terms of the ideas and needs being faught for. they are fighting for the same things for the american people.

would you honestly not vote for clinton if she wins over the other two and you were a deep supporter for obama or edwards? or vote for obama if he wins. same with edwards. regardless of who wins, all three have my vote.

My interest is this:

What makes her think she can influence the leaders of the Arab countries being a woman when women are not given any respect for any deed accomplished. A terroriist leader will never talk to a woman or abide by their suggestions. Agreements are just a piece of paper.

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.

What a shame that the two leading Democratic candidates are doing everything possible to turn off the American people with their bickering and giving the next election to the GOP. He said, she said, gender versus race is not going to win in November. I plan on voting for Senator Edwards on February 5.

Both Obama supporters and Clinton Supporters need to accept that BOTH of them attacked each other. We are not in kindergarten to be playing the “he/she started it” game, they both felt personally attached to their records to contain themselves any longer.

I do not approve of Hillary’s attacks on Obama, nor do I believe Obama’s assertions that he is 100% clean. But no matter how bad this political scene gets, we as a whole, AS DEMOCRATS, must stay united to vote a democrat in the White House:

If you are an Obama supporter, support Clinton if she wins the nomination. And, if you are a Clinton supporter, support Obama if he wins the nomination. I just don’t understand why people would say that they would support a republican if their candidate does not win the nomination.

MLK.jr said that we should love our enemies, and I think that BOTH Clinton and Obama need to learn that lesson. But, we the voters must understand that THEY are fighting each other, and that it is none of our business to get involved in their personal attacks.

VOTE DEMOCRAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

keep the dream of the end of Bush alive !

Dave,

Bush got destroyed in the debates and still won...the Republican just need to push fear more than ever.

I understand Obama’s point of view, Hillary Clinton is running for president not Bill
Clinton. I think the debate from what I read, was right on target for Obama. The
American people wants a president that can remain poised under pressure and yet convey his ideas on the economy. I strongly disagree on what Bill Clinton is doing. He should not be fighting his wife political battles in her campaign; it gives the impression that she cannot make the big decision if she is elected president.

Both Obama supporters and Clinton Supporters need to accept that BOTH of them attacked each other. We are not in kindergarten to be playing the “he/she started it” game, they both felt personally attached to their records to contain themselves any longer.

I do not approve of Hillary’s attacks on Obama, nor do I believe Obama’s is 100% clean. But no matter how bad this political scene gets, we as a whole, AS DEMOCRATS, must stay united to vote a democrat in the White House:

If you are an Obama supporter, support Clinton if she wins the nomination. And, if you are a Clinton supporter, support Obama if he wins the nomination. I just don’t understand why people would say that they would support a republican if their candidate does not win the nomination.

MLK.jr said that we should love our enemies, and I think that BOTH Clinton and Obama need to learn that lesson. But, we the voters must understand that THEY are fighting each other, and that it is none of our business to get involved in their personal attacks.

VOTE DEMOCRAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

keep the dream of the end of Bush alive !

Watching from the standpoint of an independent, I continue to be much more favorably impressed by Obama than Clinton. I can bring myself to give serious consideration to Obama, but Clinton continues to leave me cold. In watching both parties, I think a Clinton candidacy would be the best hope that the GOP has.

I was very embarrassed to be an American last night as I watched the "high school level" democratic debate. Thank you John Edwards for behaving like I want my president to behave. I aplogize to you for the lack of respect the media and your opponents have given you over these last many months. And I'm not even a democrat!

As for Obama and Clinton – stop behaving like my teenagers. Stop pointing fingers (or having your spouse point fingers) and focus on getting your message out minus slandering each other in the process. We as Americans desire so much better from you.

You will be the leader of United States of America. Act like it.

Nothing any of you is saying is anything new in any campaign – ever. It's all spin. Whatever issues are the hot bottoms during that campaign are what the candidates speak to. We're given these wonderful pie in the sky solutions, but then what actually gets done in Washington? Nada. It's been happening for decades and despite my optimism for my country, I doubt any of you will be able to accomplish even a quarter of what you're promising. You need to change the way Washington works from the bottom to the top. I want to hear specifically how you're going to do it in actuality, and not in political speak.

No more general ideas – you're solutions are all too similar. I want to hear specifics – name names, make real promises you know you'll be able to keep, give realistic timelines. Put yourself out there. How are you going to pass these great sounding innitiatives through Congress and the Senate when past and current politicians haven't been able to? Remember when Bush won in 00 because he was someone who could finally work both sides of the aisle? What happened? Remember the 04 campaign when having the democrats in control of the house/senate was going to make all of the difference in the world. What happened? The American people need to hear from you why these great sounding ideas four years ago that we all wanted/needed never materialized and how specifically you yourself is going to make that different.

Honesty is the only way you're going to have the American people behind you. We're already used to lying, cheating, scam artists working in our Congress, Senate and executive branch. Don't just be another person in the highest position in our country wasting all of our time.

Saw Obama commercial here in Alabama featuring Laurence Tribe.
First Supreme Court nominee? Scary thought.

What's with all this OBAMA hype? He didn't impress me at all last night at the debate. I was actually turned off bec it seemed he didn't have a clear plan on issues.

I'm not sure if CNN reads these blogs but I hope so. I have a comment on the analysis following the debates last night. I watched it and loved it and thought that Obama was exposed in many respects. He makes great speeches but I never felt that he is very good in debates. In speeches, he relies on generalities and slogans. In debates, the questions demand specifics and contents. Obama, doesn't really translate his inspiring promises of change in these debates. In debates, he is not very specific, he repeats things very often and take up much air-time with really pointless talk. He side-tracked on issues and always take them to a higher non-specific level and do not spend much time with details. I thought he did really bad last night but most of the CNN analysts after said he did well. So I thought maybe it was just me. However, I have been reading times, newsweek and the other network blogs and people are mostly saying he was horrible. So I'm perplexed as to why many of the analysts thought Obama did well last night. I don't like to think that CNN is bias but maybe their pundits are too caught up in the creative version of the truth and they are moving further and further away from the reality of the public. Just a thought...

It's very clear that in a general election Obama is the most electable of the three.

The democratic candidates are far more articulate than the republican candidates. Their debates have thus far been much more detailed. Personally, I think Senator Clinton did best last night. Not only did she display toughness and great passion during this particular debate, she showed a greater depth of knowledge on the issues – as she has in all the debates I've seen. She answered honestly and without any hesitation. I like Senator Obama, but he occasionally comes across as naive. Understandable, considering he has limited political experience at the national level.

No way, Dave. Mitt Romney would get crushed by Clinton or Edwards. America has come a long ways, but it's not ready for a Mormon president, however wrong that may be. If it's Obama and Romney, perhaps your guy wins only because Obama is a closet Muslim and that would be more detrimental than being a Mormon.

If you're a Republican then you best be hoping for McCain. He's the only centrist from this election's crop. America is looking for someone to lead from the middle.

If any other person had made the comment about Bill Clinton's dancing ability, he would have been fried! What a double standard for Obama: treat me the same, but oh, I can be different if I want.

I think Hillary stood her ground and made her points and case. She has proven what a steady, focused and capable President she will be! Hillary did an awesome job last night at the debate. She is a strong woman with a purpose and vision!

South Carolina for Hillary Clinton !

We still have S.C. , Florida...and the multitude of February primaries to get through...I personally don't believe the Democratic primaries are even close enough to consider a "two-person" race.

Edwards excelled in fending off what criticizims Obama and Clinton actually had against his agenda (after all...most of it came from his strategy plan).

Edwards gained kudos and recongnition for remaining the most "Presidential" as the other two...let down their slippery facades a little to let us see a little more about how they handle personal attacks, and quick-thinking responses on lots of not so tough issues and some tough ones.

We now see that Obama can throw mud....and we see that Clinton can become very vicious (Bill taught her well). Neither of these qualities would be helpful in dealing with the likes of Olmert, the little nut in Iran, and other world leaders–who are experts at twisting the truth and bringing out rage in people.

Edwards restraint from jumping on the "bandwagon" for cash rebates to resolve the current recession fears also impressed me. His incentive plan...control of interest rates, halting of foreclosures–and credit recovery plans...made sense.
Borrowing billions of dollars MORE on credit–so they American people can run out to Wal-Mart, Big Lots, the grocery store–to spur the economy is just as stupid as borrowing on your credit card to pay your bills. It is not sound fiscal logic.

I believe he still appeals to fiscal democrats, independents, and moderate republicans–and can beat any of the GOP top runners–especially if they are McCain or Romney.

Why, oh Why – Does no one ever ask any of the candidates what they would do in the fight with Al Quaeda?

The fight with Al Quaeda is the most important single issue in the U.S today – and all you hear is: When would we get out of Iraq? I want to get out of Iraq, but that won't solve the principal issue.

I asked that of a caller for Obama, whom I like by the way, and she had no answer – her supervisor had no answer, and she could find nothing on his website.

Do you hear me Wolf?

Another poor debate for Obama. His answers were generic and lacked depth of understanding. One particularly bad moment came when he tried to explain why he didn't vote for the measure to limit credit card interest rates to below 30%. He said he refrained from voting for it because he thought "30% was too high". That astounded all of us and even Edwards, looking somewhat incredulous, pointed out that by using that logic, it left the doors open for card companies to charge as much as interest as they wanted. It was really damaging for Obama, because his response lacked clear thinking, understanding, logic, and common sense which are all essential in whoever becomes the leader of our nation.

Hillary was the strongest, stating her positions with clarity and depth, Edwards, when he could get a word in edgewise, stated his case strongly also. Both showed themselves to have what it takes to lead our country. And both proved to be much stronger candidates than Obama. I believe Obama is in way over his head.

Hillary Clinton is first to always talk about Mr. Obama's record, but when he calls her upon it she looks like she's caught with her hand in the bag. He is extremely intelligent and knows how to defend himself well. I think this could aid him in the White House. Although I am a Republican and Mitt Romney supported, if Romney does not get the nomination and Mr. Obama does, I will vote out of the Republican party and cast my vote for Mr. Obama.

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.

I liked the debate. The only part I was uncomfortable with (never surprised by) was the audience's blatant bias. Obama would get applause before a sentence was even finished (which takes awhile). Clinton's applause was always less. I loved Edwards mocking of Obama's record. The credit card bill (30% was not enough) and 'present.'
I would blog his voting record and the Obama supporters would say I was lying. I guess the Senate website is a govt conspiracy to put out false voting records.

He votes present as that is how business gets done in Illinois. What? He participated in (gasp) politics. But he is an outsider. He also has on his side supporting the credit companies, Rezko, a position that was part time with no schedule. Can't wait to hear the Obama moonies today. This is going to be better than the debate!

I am not a democrat but is a shame that John Edwards has not done better. He is the only democrat presidental hopeful that I would even consider voting for.

As a european citizen i was watching the debate with great interest. i really liked the way edwards performed, he had a clear line and wasn't so aggressive like the others. it seems hillary needs to watch out as she comes across quite agressive and arrogant. in my view she was the great loser of this debate. obama seems to be having to do a lot of defending these days, as he doesn't only have to battle hillary, but her husband and former president as well, but being somewhat disadvanted in this sense might get him a lot of sympathy-votes.

I watched yesterday's debate and am impressed with how articulate and convincing all three of the Democratic candidates are. I felt like Obama did the best, but all three of them sounded good.

This concerns me greatly because I am a Republican (Mitt Romney fan). I am worried about my parties chances in November especially if McCain is our nominee. I think he would be destroyed in any debate against any of the Democrats.

Come on Republicans, freshen up the talking points and sharpen the debating skills!

Would Hillary release criminals to settle political debts? I can only conclude that she would do the same as Bill Clinton and release criminals with expensive legal support on the outside or to settle debts to supporters.

I don't think John McCain can think on his feet as he did in decades past....I thank him for his service and wish him a great retirement.

I'm not impressed with the Huck and Chuck combo and doubt Huck's ability to make good choices as he doesn't seem to make good choices in friends. He also chose pardons for over 1,000 criminals in spite of the decision of the courts! Who was Governing Arkansas while Huckabee was Judging criminal law?

Obama should continue to serve our nation and gain some experience solving some tough problems....

For a past of sound decision making, a mind for improved trade and economic results, an example of American pragmatism and hard work....that is Mitt Romney!

Why are you showing the walmart remark made by Obama, without showing the slum lord remark made by Clinton on TV. Let's be fair CNN.

She needs to stop attacking him! He defends himself well which proves what a rotten typical politician she has come to be. I think Obama and Edwards should team up as President and Vice President because then this liar won't have a chance.

Obama 2008

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

I think I'm starting to connect the dots. I would like to hear more about the contributions made to Bill Clintons presidential campaign while his wife sat on the board at Wallmart. Could this possibly be why a democratic president signed NAFTA into effect? What will we give away this time if she becomes president? I really don't think the money she has recieved from special interest groups will be in the best interest of the American people. Lets hear more questions about unfair trade in the next debate and how we will get rid of NAFTA.

I was very anxious to vote for Obama. But now I am convinced he is all talk and no action. I have decided to switch my vote to Hillary Clinton. She is very honest.

petty.

Obama still gets my vote of confidence.