January 26, 2008
Posted: 08:53 PM ET

COLUMBIA, South Carolina (CNN) — There’s a party going on in South Carolina’s capital city. In the streets surrounding the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, crowds of people are hooting and hollering. You’d think that the hometown team just won the big game — but what’s being celebrated is Barack Obama’s victory in South Carolina’s Democratic presidential primary.

Hundreds of Obama supporters are waiting in line to get into the convention center, where the senator from Illinois will give his victory speech later this evening. It’s a carnival atmosphere as they yell “fired up” and other Obama slogans.

Inside the convention center, the noise gets louder. Obama supporters are waving signs and placards and celebrating. CNN is on the big screens here and the crowd went wild when correspondent Suzanne Malveaux, who’s inside the hall on the press riser, appeared on-screen. When former President Clinton appeared on the same screen, speaking at a Missouri campaign event, some in the crowd began to boo.

–CNN Deputy Political Director Paul Steinhauser

Filed under: Barack Obama


carol   January 27th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

HA HA HA Beverly, i agree with you. Kyle is ignorant.

carol   January 27th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Kyle, what about Iowa? He won there too by the way if you didn't know. Was it because there more blacks there?

carol   January 27th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

LEE, i believe you watched the crown. There were all kinds of colors. Please stop pushing it

jdssm   January 27th, 2008 10:06 pm ET

so good

jeremy   January 27th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

hillary is more worried about making history while obama is worried about the issues of all americans black, white, purple no matter what color they are. If not edwards he has my vote.

Anonymous   January 27th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

THE U.S. MIGHT BE READY FOR A FEMALE PRESIDENT BUT THE WORLD ISN'T.

Rob   January 27th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

Most of the people are dissatisfied with the state of the affairs in the country.
CHANGE is a strong emotion and Obama is exploiting the mood of the people.
People should vote with their brains and not with their emotions.

Rob   January 27th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

Is it not racism , When 80% of African American's vote for Obama? Why should any one else vote for Obama?

Pat Shepard   January 27th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Do The Math:

Did you ever stop to wonder *why* he won 80% of the black vote? Rev. Sharpton didn't win even close to that four years ago. You might be willing to stereotype blacks as ignorant savages who will blindly vote for one of their own, but the facts don't bear your racism out.

Joseph DeSousa   January 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Enjoy the party before the kill!

Come on folks, don't tell me no-one believes this is being negotiated behind closed doors for the fall election…

Vicki   January 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Who's Behind Obama—Same speech each time with no real avenues of policy discussion. The blacks did not vote for our economic concerns, they voted to support the blacks–no problem but lets be real. The Kennedy's are now supporting Obama–no surprise there–they've been behind the scenes with Oprah since the inception. What better way to further their policies than support an inexperienced novice to further their ideology. He is a pawn for the ole money to use. Big–Big–Money, make no mistake, their are republican idiologies here, with a lot of smear tactics. Stop comparing John and Bobby Kennedy to Obama, he is not like the great ones….maybe in his speeches–his are definately motivational–only thing hes got going for him. Obama can and will be swayed by other powerful individuals–just wait it will be known to the country's dispair. Additionally–take away all of the news media, the Oprah's, the Kennedy's and other endorsements, just the candidates–who would win? Make no mistake, Hillary hands down. Wake up people–who is really running, Oprah or the Kennedy's. Does CNN report the Obama tactics against Hillary–no, and why?????? Hillary cant be swayed by powerful individuals, she stands behind her policies–not sure what Obama stands for–but do know that he's got some heavy backers who want their policy ideas, both reprublican and democratic to become a reality.

GW   January 27th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

It's time for CHANGE people. And CHANGE does not have a color or a gender. All three candidates are experienced….All three are, for the most part, respected and liked by many. All three candidates have similiar ideas and plans in place. The ONE key difference….only ONE has the ability to inspire, uplift and bring people together in a positive way. And it's not just talk…..it's happening. Even if OBAMA doesn't win the nomination…..I'm proud to see so many AMERICANS coming together to change the perception that we are still so racist that we could never support a multi-cultural candidate. And I say multi-cultural because he is NOT just African-American….he is White, African and an American.

OBAMA '08

OBAMA4EVER   January 27th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

I'M WHITE AND I SUPPORT OBAMA TAKE THAT YOU BILLARY SUPPORTERS

George Wu, A.I.A.   January 27th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

I think it is about time the world should wake up to know that the Clintons marriage is a marriage of convenience. If political ambition is more important than own life. Admission of cheating on the wife after national announcing denials made me think very low of that man. And the wife, so interested in power, would forgive the cheating husband…… what a mess! Americans still would trust people like that to be in the White House?! American people: making a second mistake is stupid! dancewu(dot)net

ABC-anyone but clinton   January 27th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

veronica - it looks like it's time for you to go back to school.

Greg CA   January 27th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Party on, boys and girls! Who knows when you'll get another Obama victory to celebrate? Make it count while you can.

George Wu, A.I.A.   January 27th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Because you are black, your chance to be supported by the jews is not likely. Therefore when you go to the White House. The jews cannot control you, treat you like a running dog! which alone I am quite sure about. And also when you decided not to have troops in Iraq, no one will be able to stop you. Therefore, when you made a promise of having the troops back within 16 months, I believed in you, Obama, more than anyone else! From now on Israel will have to worry about Iran will wipe them out of the map all by themselves, without the backing from the world's most powerful country, the U.S.A.. dancewu(dot)net

Becky Montgomery   January 27th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

I think the racism reflected in some of these boards emphasizes why we NEED someone like Obama to unite us. It is sad that some people are still so ignorant. They are missing out on knowing some great people. By the way, I am a white woman and have enough intelligence and discretion to vote for the person who is the best, not just another person who is also a woman or also a white person. If the wrong woman becomes president, she will discourage people from electing another woman. I will vote for a woman when the right one comes along.

In this race, the right person is Obama.

Ann Jones   January 27th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Charle, you live in the Netherlands, but I must tell you, Obama is not the best candidate for America or the world. If you want real change and progress for America and the world, you will urge all of your American friends to vote for Mike Huckabee! Just because Obama is black doesn't make him the best candidate. Trust me, Obama will just be a mouthpiece for the same old establishment in Washington, which got us into this mess in the first place, as indicated by the people who are endorsing him, such as Ted Kennedy and John Kerry! We definitely don't want or need Obama as our next President.

veronica lynne   January 27th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

We are not supporting Barack Obama in our household, although we supposedly "fit" into who's supposedly voting for him (highly educated).
We think he is not experienced, not a strong and forceful leader, and would make a poor president at this time in our country's history.

Leano   January 27th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Let me address the perception that blacks voted for Obama because he's black. First of all Lee, for you to suggest this racial argument tells me right up that this is not something that you have observed for a while, but that your conclusion is based on fallacies. Obama's message is far more powerful than any other candidate's message and that is why South Carolina voted for him. Now if we were to argue Kyle's argument we would say well, the Whites did not vote for Obama that much, only a quarter did, and 3 quarter voted for Edward/Clinton. Should we then argue that it is racial? There's no doubt that naturally we all want to side with someone and sadly enough we often fall into a racial affinity as the criteria of our choice. Lee and Kyle, if i were you i would not have commented here, because your judgements betray your self-righteousness. You've simply said the wrong thing, at the wrong time.

Aj   January 27th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

for all the people who keep saying Obama ONLY won SC because of the black vote… think about this, NO ONE made those claims after Obama took IOWA.

Deleted User   January 27th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

This is a Black vote celebration before the big fall for Obama. The media spectacle is damaging to Obama. Watching are white, Latinos and Asian Americans who will be inspired to rally for Hillary, because they hate the SC race vote against Hillary. Watch Super Tuesday.

Jeff, Miami, Fl   January 27th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Here's another young man for Hillary!

AnnAloha, PA Independent Thinker   January 27th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

I think we should all congratulate Senator Obama. Now he can return to his campaign of hope…oh wait…that was the past…
hehehe

Amanda   January 27th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

I believe that if Obama were to get the nomination for the Democratic Party that we are going to have a new generation of "Reagan Democrats" again! His nomination would energize the Republican base like we haven't seen in a long time and once again it will be another 4 or 8 years before the Democrats can regain the White House. Go Hillary!!

Amy in Cincinnati   January 27th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

It's people like Lee and Kyle who perpetuate the whole race issue. Did it ever occur to you guys that Obama got so many votes (across the board, I might add) because he's the BEST candidate? Probably not, since you guys can't get past the color of his skin.

pam Eugene OR   January 27th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Lee,
You must have gone to bed before Barack spoke. I am sure of it, otherwise you would have seen a very mixed group of about 2000 people to cheer on our next President speak. There were young, old, white and black and Barack won in each group.
I also see there are a lot of Clinton supporters out in full negative voice this morning. You should have learned in SC to dial the hate for Obama done. The voters don't like it and it did not work there for the Hill & Bill team.

Tom, Boston, MA   January 27th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Until people, including the clowns on this blog, are changed, nothing will change, Obama or not.

Do you see change? Who sees change? I don't see change.
You people are regugitating the same ole rubbish fed by manipulative spindoctors.
You'll get what you deserve, time and again.

ATL   January 27th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Republicans in GA are pissing in their pants now…none of them have anything to say against Obama that Hillary has not already thrown at him.

stacy   January 27th, 2008 11:12 am ET

A white woman, 66, from Tennessee for Hillary Clinton. If Obama does not
like paperwork or misplaces it, how can he balance a budget.

Robert   January 27th, 2008 10:53 am ET

I am a Very Proud Texas Democrat….I have been involved in the elections here in texas for 20 yrs now…i have always backed our candiate for president but if Obama ends up being the candiate…well i just will have to vote for the other party in the general election…i cant see this great country electing him to the white house…if Obama thinks the Clintons have been harsh and hard on him…wait till the Republicans get ahold of him in the general election…

GO….HILLARY….GO….

Reality Check for Kyle   January 27th, 2008 10:36 am ET

You're right Kyle. And clearly Obama won Iowa (97% white) because he's black. What kind of argument are you making? Or are you one of those Confederate flag waving, southern 60's white boy? Time to move to the north, the Union, so you can experience unity.

J   January 27th, 2008 10:30 am ET

actually… if you actually watched the speech… you would notice that there seemed to be AT LEAST an equal number of white and black, if not mostly white….

Stop this racial crap….

Obama '08!

matt   January 27th, 2008 10:28 am ET

All the comments made on this page from Hillary's supporters all sound negative. Common Kyle ! you are going too far. This is America the land of the free, we are all free to make our choices, that is what democracy is all about. Its not a DYNASTY its DEMOCRACY. Comments like yours is not good for Hillary"s campaign. I am from NY , i have always loved the Clitons. But hearing comments made by Bill and people like you , I guess i have no choice to vote for Obama. GO OBAMA! YES WE CAN!

Sylvia   January 27th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Congratulations to Barack Obama!! He is a "breath of fresh air", long overdue. Not since John F. Kennedy have I been so inspired. We need to bring back that great feeling of pride we all felt back then, Hispanic, Asian, African American and Caucasian. It is time for our country to come back together and unite. Only Obama can bring us there!

Ann, MO   January 27th, 2008 10:05 am ET

I don't like to call myself "old" yet, but I am Hillary's age, white, female, and definitely voting for Obama!

Lydia   January 27th, 2008 9:53 am ET

Mary Shaw…what you said tells it all…"the Clinton's are experienced."

But we are not voting for co-presidents.

Amit   January 27th, 2008 9:49 am ET

People don't understand who we are voting for and why we are voting for them.

Its not about gender, its not about race, its not about rich against the poor.

Don't you see all the politicians out there trying to divide us into groups and then cherry pick us. There's one person out there that wants to bring us all together and yes he is black, doesn't that only make it better.

Think with all your heart and mind and feel out who is the real thing in this puppet show.

Lydia   January 27th, 2008 9:48 am ET

Kyle…have you been living in a bubble for the past few weeks or is that you can't stand the truth?!

#1 Billary and their supporters brought up the issue of race in an effort to derail Obama's campaign, preying on the fears of many Americans. Bill started the race baiting. Billary even had "talking African American puppets" playing the race card, e.g. Andrew Young and Robert Johnson. If you look at the numbers in South Carolina, that strategy did not work. It backfired big time. Fifty percent of the voters in South Carolina are Caucasian; the other 50% is African American. Obama could not have had such an impressive victory with the support of African Americans alone especially when you take into account that not all African Americans will vote for Obama.

#2 Obama has more years of legislative experience than Hillary. Obama served 8 years as an Illinois Senator and two+ years as a United States Senator. Hillary has one term and one year as a United States Senator. Does Hillary have more WORKING experience than Obama, obviously yes, but only because she is older. In terms of legislative experience, Obama has more. The terms Hillary served as the wife of a governor and as a wife of a United States President does NOT count toward HER experience.

#3 The only Caucasian age-voting block Billary captured in South Carolina was with people over 65. People in the 25-45 or so age bracket supported Obama and they are NOT young and immature, or at least their age alone doesn't support your claim.

I realize how race and color have dominated relationships not just in America but globally. However, I am cautiously optimistic that we can turn the page and build the type of coalitions necessary to have an inclusive government for all the people.

It is my belief that Obama can be the type of transformational leader we need as we move into the 21st century. It is time to turn the page. Those who agree will vote for Obama.

vino   January 27th, 2008 9:37 am ET

All the way for OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Lydia   January 27th, 2008 9:29 am ET

Vincent…cool your heals. Haven't you learned polls are not always accurate? Let's just wait until the voters speak with their ballot.

PJ, New York   January 27th, 2008 9:26 am ET

Freedom, you said : So Obama won in South Carolina because he's black? The same way he won Iowa?

YES HE DID. Don't be a moron or try and sugar coat it. Obama won South Carolina because the blacks overwhelmingly supported him. The numbers show it! Over 80% black voted for him and you don't see an issue with this?

Obama's win in South Carolina will be Hillary Clinton's gain. All of you Obama supporters have got it wrong about the Republican's wanting Hillary Clinton to win because she's 'easy for them to defeat'. It's the other way around. The Republican's know Hillary will give them a run for their money, Obama will be eaten alive by ANY of the more seasoned Repulican's. If Obama is whining about Bill Clinton picking on him, just wait until the Republican's get a hold of him.

Mr ONEIl   January 27th, 2008 9:21 am ET

If we say Obamas Victory in SC is an issue of race, what will we say about his victory in Iowa?
Why will some people focus so much on the issue of race and forget about the issue of gender in this election.
common people, give me a break. Neither race nor gender has much to do with this race to the white house, it is a matter of who is ready to lead Americans the Way the want. Obama is out for people like you volks who keep living in the past. Racism is out of date and that is one of the messages Obama is bringing to us. Learn to love your fellow brothers and Sisters regardless of his or her race so that together we can make a better tomorrow.
The world is moving forward and not backward.

AN ONEIL
Germany

Dumb Americans   January 27th, 2008 8:54 am ET

It's amazing the number of idiots who cannot see through thsis demagogue - because that is exactly what Obama is.

Mind you most of you are so pig ignorant you probably don't know what the word means.

charlotte   January 27th, 2008 8:47 am ET

An Opama win in SC. What a victory anything black could win in SC.

rick   January 27th, 2008 8:27 am ET

okay i don't see what the big deal is here,, obviously black americans feel most comfortable with someone who looks more like them,, just like many white and latinos feel more comfortable with someone that looks like them,, that is not racial but personal preference,, it was not suprising that this would happen just as it was not suprising that it happened in N.H. and Nevada,, nor will it be any different when we look back after super tuesday

Nagita   January 27th, 2008 8:10 am ET

Bill Bennett made that comment that Hillary would be an easier opponent for Republicans. Look him up. He has a long history in the Republican party.

Lydia   January 27th, 2008 8:02 am ET

Message to Lee…In case you didn't watch last night, the room was filled with PEOPLE. Stop playing the race card. It is not working for Billary.

Mitt   January 27th, 2008 7:08 am ET

Good for you Barbara .. nobody wanted race or gender to become a factor in selecting the nominee

However 81% of black in SC voting for Obama is hard to argue !

Tom, San Leandro   January 27th, 2008 6:25 am ET

The majority of those who voted for Obama in South Carolina can't tell you what he will do for the country beyond "hope and change the status quo". They don't even know what that means. None of us do, because Obama is all hype and "inspirational" words, and can't back up his empty campaign rhetoric. I'm praying the rest of the nation will really listen to the messages of all the candidates and really think about it before they cast their ballots.

kim j   January 27th, 2008 5:38 am ET

To Kyle did you forget about Iowa and you can't even spell. You are just angry that there are alot of black intelligent people in the world and God is raising them up. So Get over it!!!!!!!

L. V.   January 27th, 2008 3:15 am ET

I am a Hispanic medical doctor in New Mexico. I am for Obama.

It's shameful the way the Clinton's (Billary? Bill/Hill) behaved in the last 7 seven days attacking Obama relentlessly and seeking to divide the vote based on racial issues. When Hillary showed some tears in New Hampshire I kind of thought better of her, but anymore.

Obama will be a national revolution by just focusing on getting health insurance for every American, improving teacher's salaries and poor neighborhood schools, ending the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, and restoring America's leadership in the world.

sheila   January 27th, 2008 3:01 am ET

My three young voting-age white, female children, my middle-aged white husband and my middle-aged white self, my 77-year-old white parents, and my middle-aged white sister and her middle-aged white, republican husband are all voting for Obama. My vote is not based on the color of the candidate's skin, but on the content of his/her character, vision, and ideas for what is best for this country, and that is Barack Obama in '08.

John   January 27th, 2008 2:59 am ET

IM SO hAPPY I WANT TO CRY, this man is doing it for the people. CLinton is doing it for…well the clintons. He is about bringing ppl together, white black lation asian, poor rich republican democrat. CLINTON is about breaking ppl apart black vs whtie, gender vs race…list goes on.

They are smart ppl and I respect them. But they are not what the country needs ESPECIALLY NOW. IM very happy that ppl were able to recognize this and STAND UP AND PROVE IT IN THE POLLS. They really made it loud and clear, SAME OL POLITICS, SMEARING, DOES NOT WORK ANYMORE!!!! esp not after Bush and karl rove.

Far Away   January 27th, 2008 2:51 am ET

Let us be Frank, FRANK, your style is no longer cutting it with voters, or the intelligent people of America.

If Senator Obama goes up against McCain as the front runner for the Republicans then Barack Obama will continue to be who he is and what he stands for: One people, indivisible, under the stars and stripes.

Put a sock in it Frank

Far Away   January 27th, 2008 2:44 am ET

In 1992, William Clinton, who ran against President G. H. Bush, was one of history's most inexperienced presidential candidates and sixteen years later, he still has not learned anything about himself, about people or politics.

cool isn't enough   January 27th, 2008 2:29 am ET

people think obama's cool, especially young people. maybe he is. but this isn't a popularity contest. he's not qualified. and no matter how many people say that's a racist comment, it isn't. he simply isn't qualified. i know one could make an argument to the contrary, because one can always argue about these things, but the reality is what it is. if his qualifications were compared to other candidates in a testing setting where nobody could tell who was who, he'd come in very low on the list. joe biden is much more qualified, but not cool, so he lost out quickly. typical us. if obama had white skin, he wouldn't have gotten 80% of South Carolina's black vote, probably not even 8%, as they would've gone for Clinton. and in Iowa, etc., his lack of substance would've been noticed and he would've come in fourth or so. and he would've been out of the race that night. but he's black, he's a really good speaker when there's a prepared speech, he's young, he's decent looking, and people think he's cool. and people mistakenly think because he won Iowa, he can be elected. who knows, maybe he can. but i really doubt it. what he can do is - maybe - get the nomination. and the dems, of which i have been a proud member all my life, will have shot themselves in the foot again. why do we do this to ourselves. . .

angel   January 27th, 2008 2:12 am ET

Congratulations to Mr Obama. I hope if either you or Hillary wins, that you each capitalize on the others strengths. What a winning pair you'd be together.

xavier   January 27th, 2008 1:58 am ET

I find it interesting, and disappointing that a few people have posted and insist on mentioning Barack’s middle name in their post. Those that are doing it are not supporters of Barack Obama, which is perfectly fine. But the posts insinuate that his middle name is a reason for people to be afraid, or a reason not to trust. A reason not to believe. I’m not sure what that is really supposed to mean. Does it mean that if people have names in common they inherit the negative traits of each other? Do I need to reconsider my friendships with anybody with the first name Charlie, or the last name Manson? My personal belief is that the coincidence his middle name is not nearly as frightening as the fact that some people think it is of any significance at all.

Winning in S.C. was very important, but winning big was even better. Given that he has received more votes than anybody gives me hope that the country is being moved by something more compelling than a middle name.

Obama 08

Collette   January 27th, 2008 1:43 am ET

CNN's exit poll results are now available… some notable data…

Obama wins 68% of 18-29 year olds
Obama wins 62% of 30-44 year olds
Obama wins 55% of 45-59 year olds
Obama wins 63% of people who have never voted before
Obama wins 54% of of non-college educated voters
Obama wins 52% of college educated voters
Obama wins 55% of people who make less than $100,000
Obama wins 57% of people who make less than $50,000
Obama wins 52% of people who said the economy was the most important issue

MJ   January 27th, 2008 1:38 am ET

The negativity in some of these e-mails is frightening. I am thrilled to have such a great choice of candidates. I am yet another "older" white woman for Obama, he is energizing a lot of us. It feels as exciting as the 1960s, people of all ages, gender, color, and socioeconomic status are uniting together for a change that is badly needed.

Al, San Francisco, CA   January 27th, 2008 1:12 am ET

Hillary seems to be a good candidate with answers to all problems. But Somehow I trust Obama more than her. He is perceived to be honest,
humble and truthful. And I am going to go with my instinct. He makes me want to become a better American. If you have hate in your heart, you will not understand this. I feel pity for you.

And why are some people calling him black ? What about his mom ? He is half white if you are losing sleep seeing Obama winning.

do the math   January 27th, 2008 1:09 am ET

with 80% of the African-American vote, which was over 50% of the total vote, that means he had 40% or more even if not one single Caucasian person voted for him. with the other 60% split in some way for the other two, he couldn't lose unless he ran down the street naked or something. but the national vote isn't 50% African-American, more like 12%. so he doesn't start with a 40% lead, just under a 10 percent lead (80% of 12%). he needs the rest from Caucasians, Hispanics, etc. It's a long way from 10% to a majority and getting less than a quarter of the non-African-American votes (1/4 of 88% = 22%) won't do it.

interesting   January 27th, 2008 12:54 am ET

Mati:

I have been saying that for a while. It is amazing how Republicans want to see Obama win. Bennett and others. They know something about him (Obama) that they will use against him to win if he gets the nomination. Something is not right with this at all.

Hope the 20 states on Feb. 5 see the light. Because something is not right with this at all.

angelina_ MN   January 27th, 2008 12:47 am ET

Please _ be respectful, no matter your dislikes of the SEnators, remember we are all in this together. when they say the US of America they dont differentiate………

While there are still many issues of race and politics in this country, and it is clear by reading a few angry people in this blogs, nothing gives any human the right to see another human and say they are less …………..

the world is changing no matter what a few people think……………..

Murry   January 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

Thank you, South Carolina! I'm not black. I'm not male. But, I fully support Senator Obama!

Matt   January 27th, 2008 12:20 am ET

Leon:

…and 94% of Mormons voted for Mitt Romney in Nevada. That does not mean that Mormons are prejudiced against the candidates of other religions. In the same way, 80% of African Americans voting for Obama is a non-issue.

Identity politics are a starting point. People tend to give people they can identify with (whether it be religiously, racially, age-wise, gender-wise, or even name-wise) a closer look. Thus, people often end voting for people that are more like them in some way because they caught their eye first. It in so suggests that an African American voting for Obama is racist or that a woman voting for Hillary is sexist.

I am a 24 year old white male and I support Obama because he is the one person uniquely capable, in either party, of bringing the country together to move forward and reverse the destructive Bush policies of the past. Join me.

Jr., California   January 27th, 2008 12:19 am ET

Kyle,

Get your sheets out of the drier, I just heard the buzzer go off.

eddie   January 27th, 2008 12:08 am ET

Exit polls estimated Obama took more than 80 percent of the African-American vote, which made up about half of Saturday's turnout.

Chris Texas   January 26th, 2008 11:51 pm ET

Congratulations to the Obama supporters for the win in South Carolina.

Obama is a great candidate but he isn't what we need in the White House right now.

We need someone who knows the loopholes. We need someone who breathes politics, and we need someone experienced enough to dig us out of the ditch we're in. Obama is a fantastic motivational speaker yes. He can bring people together under 1 roof and raise it. But his inexperience, and his voting record will not win over the Senate or the House. He has worked both sides of the aisle but has never "swerved" opinions. He himself is the opinion that is swerved by the opposite sides.

Hillary has worked both sides of the aisle. Pushing her opinions onto the republicans and coming to an agreement with them. Hillary and McCain are living proof she works with the republicans to get things done. I'm tired of this "Hillary" bashing.

Hillary is a true Democrat just as Obama and just as Edwards. Those of you who say crap like "If Hillary is the nominee i'm voting republican" should walk out in front of a bus. You have no loyalty to the Democratic party. Your beliefs are paper thin, and you know nothing.

If Obama is nominee I would gladly vote for him, even tho I am a strong Hillary supporter. I will not give into this Democratic segregation crap. It's juvenile and very childish.

Wake up fellow Democrats and understand that Hillary, Edwards, and Obama are all on the same side…. OURS.

Angie   January 26th, 2008 11:51 pm ET

Black people only made up half the voters…Hillary obviously didn't get enough white voters either. Actually, Obama got 25% of the white vote while Clinton and Edwards spilt the remaining for 37.5%. each That's a lot of white people that voted for Obama too.

The Clintons alienated the black vote with Bill. Even Hillary said herself that "maybe Bill went a little too far." You think? Don't forget that Hillary started out with the majority of the vote in SC and the demographic was still 50% black at that time. It's the behaviour that has been exhibited by the Clintons during the lead up to SC that made black people change their minds. I personally feel that they were willing to throw away the black vote so that they could successfully label Obama the "black candidate". I found their subtle use of race since NH to be offensive…especially from Bill. Almost every speech that he gave this week, had racial innuendos thrown in. Maybe it worked to get them more white votes heading into 2/5, but it also alienated a lot of voters for now…black and white.

Ray   January 26th, 2008 11:49 pm ET

Jesse Jackson won SC right? Enough said!

Leavenworth, KS   January 26th, 2008 11:46 pm ET

Add yet another retired white woman for Senator Obama. I have been carrying his bumper sticker on the back of my car since BEFORE he announced he would run! We need someone to unify us…and he is the one! Thanks to the SC voters…you have made a statement!

And, as a retired teacher, may I suggest Kyle ,who posted earlier, head back to school to get a little more work on writing skills!

Sylvia, an "independent," "white," "female," "middle age," member of the "NPR crowd"   January 26th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Don't hate — educate.

And I can't wait — Obama '08!

Katherine   January 26th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

I'm a native of Louisiana. Seeing the results, though I wished it would have been otherwise, really came as no surprise. If you look at CNN's own numbers you will see that Obamba won due to the fact that the same base which he has had from the beginning, young and black voters, still tend to favor him.

That's not diversity.

If you like Obamba then by all means vote for him. But don't do so as a 'statement' of how 'enlightened' you are. Do it because you honestly believe he is able to do the job better than anyone else.

Leslie   January 26th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

He's fresh but how is that going to help with the economy? It' The ECONOMY!!!!!

Rhetorics can only go so far….but the ECONOMY, JOBS, and the WELFARE of the PEOPLE that counts.!!!!

Al   January 26th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

Kyle your comment shows just how ignorant and racist you are. On the same premise why did Obama win Iowa? A state that is 95% white and better educated per capita than most states. I guess that they want a cool President too!

Micahel Guinn, Ventura, CA   January 26th, 2008 11:27 pm ET

Kyle: Shame on you! Your hate-mongering days are almost over! YES E CAN! Obama 08!

ABC-anyone but clinton   January 26th, 2008 11:24 pm ET

TO LEE: STOP NOSE BROWNING THE HILDABEAST BY BRINGING UP RACE AGAIN. THERE WERE PLENTY OF WHITES PACKED IN THE HOUSE. AND BLACKS REPRESENT HALF OF SOUTH CAROLINA, NOT THE ENTIRE STATE. OBAMA WON IN A LANDSLIDE SHOWING THAT HE GOT A GOOD PERCENTAGE OF WHITE VOTES TOO.

YOUR BILLARY'S ATTACKS ON OBAMA HAVE SURELY BACKFIRED AND PEOPLE ARE FINALLY WAKING UP AND VOTING FOR REAL CHANGE.

YES WE CAN-

OBAMA 2008!!!!!!

carlo   January 26th, 2008 11:19 pm ET

Leon, a black voter does not a black candidate always win. I didn't vote for Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton and I'm black. So much for your rhetoric.

Sylvia, an "independent," "white," "female," "middle age," member of the "NPR crowd"   January 26th, 2008 11:17 pm ET

Don't hate — educate!

And I can't wait — Obama '08!

lara   January 26th, 2008 11:14 pm ET

the party will end up with shots and the cops coming to fix the madness

Nicholas Duckworth   January 26th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

Obama is inspiring a nation to care, to step up, and to take responsibility for our futures. We are not voting for Obama because of the color of his skin, we are voting for him because he is empowering us to effect change in America, nothing real happens until the people step up and that is what Obama is doing bringing the people to get together to demand the changes necessary to make real change. You can mandate changes all you want but until the people want it we will go no where. With Obama we have a real chance to bring all people together to take on the real threats that face us today.

Obama 08

Barbara   January 26th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Here's another old, white woman for Obama. Oh yes, and my old, white husband is for him too.

Charle   January 26th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Even though I am Dutch and live in the Netherlands, I hope with all my heart that the people of America will elect Barack Obama as the candidate for the Democratic party and as the next president in the November elections. You are priviliged in being the sole choosers of the next leader of the world. these turbulent times al over the world desperately call for new ideas, a new style of leadership not just for yourcountry, but forthe world as a whole. A candidate that can unite republicans and democrats, someone that can propell the USA beyond issues about race and gender, can truly make a difference ion the way things aregoing right now. I hopeyou all will open your hearts to embrace the concept of a new direction, change as sen. Obama promises. Eight years of the Bush administration have brought both the USA and the rest of the world nothing but misery. You now have a unique chance to elect the person who can unite us all - not just thepeople of the USA, but the whole wolrd- and once again turn the your country into the leading nation of the world.
It is your blessing and your curse as US citizens to have this privilege. I hope you will not let the rest of the world down.

Freedom   January 26th, 2008 11:01 pm ET

So Obama won in South Carolina because he's black? The same way he won Iowa?

Lee, the Republican guy said it also that Hillary is who they want to run against because she is easy for them. Get it right!

Vivien CA   January 26th, 2008 10:59 pm ET

Enjoy your win tonight. Here comes Super Tuesday.

rusty   January 26th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

No Lee. You are wrong, we are not all african americans in this room. We are all different colors, and we are very happy for Obama tonight. The Clinton"s were probably expecting to wrap this up by Feb5th. If Obama gets through Super Tuesday still competitive, I think he will end up winning the nomination. Go home Clinton's, we are tired of your "All the King's Men" brand of politics.

jOAN   January 26th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

All who voted fot Bush are sorry he is in office. He has disappointed them. He had no experience, nor was he hornest about the WOMD. If you voted for him then you should feel very sad about your vote. It is time that we change the way this country is going. Beaufort Co., SC voted for Obama and we are mosly white, republicans and old. We know that it is time for a change.

Viki   January 26th, 2008 10:51 pm ET

I bet Obama has lots to say, since he didn’t address his supporters at Nevada and didn’t congratulate Hillary. He is obviously very please with himself tonight.
Can’t wait till next debates: Obama will make lime jocks again, repeat his slogans again.
Hillary had dignity to call him with congratulation and to wish him well in her speech tonight. Here is example of loss with dignity. And because of that Hillary will win nomination!
Hillary 2008!

Jane   January 26th, 2008 10:51 pm ET

Lee - maybe people are not stupid. Just able to rise above color. Remember Iowa?
Maybe We The People are fed up with people like you.
With Hillary, the Republicans will certainly get my vote!!

Rev. Charles L. Jones, Sr.   January 26th, 2008 10:50 pm ET

I am not worried about his inexperience because I know there are plenty of people to help him where he might fall short. I like his message, his energy, his youthfulness, his desire for change, his willingness to reach out to all people inncluding other countries, his vissionary attributes, and the support his wife gives him. He understands hurting people. He will make a great President.

Julie, Binghamton, NY   January 26th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

How could CNN say that Obama's voters transcended all socioeconomic groups. Yes he got 80% of the black vote but 75% of the white voters voted for a white candidate. When 80% of black people vote for a black candidate, and 75% of people vote for a white candidate, then obviously race played a factor here. I am neither surprised about the white vote nor the black vote. After the Obama campaign gave the media more fuel to make Hillary look racist, more black voters began to swing towards Obama. That explains part of the black vote. As per the white vote, has anyone ever visited South Carolina? Those people think the South still have won the Civil War. It's common to see women wearing Confederate flag bathing suits and for people to hang the Confederate Flag on their trucks and homes. So racial bias explains part of the white vote in South Carolina.

Frank   January 26th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

Let us see what happens with Obama goes against McCain! Most likely he will become a few shades darker after being put on fire by McCain and the Republicans! I wonder how many Democrats will switch over and vote Republican if Barak Hussein Obama gets the Democratic nomination!!!?

Ann Jones   January 26th, 2008 10:46 pm ET

The young people are being fooled by Obama, he is a yes man for the establishment who is full of rhetoric and hot air, unfortunately. If elected, both Obama and Hillary Clinton will cater to the interest of the multinational corporations, at the expense of the American people because of the corporate campaign contributions they have received! The only reason Obama won in South Carolina is because Oprah campaigned extensively for him in South Carolina and over 50% of the South Carolina voters are black! The American people should vote for candidates such as Ron Paul or Mike Huckabee if they are serious about saving themselves, their families, and this country.

Brian   January 26th, 2008 10:45 pm ET

"We are up against conventional thinking that says your ability to lead as president comes from longevity in Washington or proximity to the White House. But we know that real leadership is about candor, and judgment, and the ability to rally Americans from all walks of life around a common purpose — a higher purpose,"

Gil   January 26th, 2008 10:44 pm ET

If I hear one more racial comment I'll think we'll have to call president Kennedy to send the national guard into Birmingham again…poor Dr. King. Sometimes I wonder…Do people listen to that message anymore, or do they only listen to their own selfishness?

Anonymous   January 26th, 2008 10:44 pm ET

You know, it is absolutely horrifying to me that half a decade after the Civil Rights movement, we still have ignorant, racist Americans, some of them posting on cnn.com tonight. I guess I should be excited that those same people are busy reading the news on Saturday night.

In any case, Obama's campaign is based on shaking up the status quo in Washington, and his fresh outlook is, to me, one of the most inspiring I have seen.

I understand Caroline Kennedy has written an editorial for the NY Times endorsing Obama… I was too young at the time to understand JFK's inspirational presence at the time of his presidency, but from what I can tell, I, too, see the connection between a WHITE inspirational president like JFK was and Barack (whatever his middle name is, I don't care– mine's no good myself) Obama.

To me, it is not about race or gender; it is about changing the status quo, not using the political system to achieve power, but shaking it up to promote democracy and unity among the American people. I am praying (and I don't do that much) that Obama wins everything… GO OBAMA!!

JohnS   January 26th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

How can so many people be so wrong? What other people are NOT listening to from the CNN commentators is this:

A greater percentage (over 75%) of the DEMOCRATIC base is saying NO to Hillary. Thank God the decision for delegates is NOT in the hands of some of our "little-bird" brain voters; otherwise, we will all find ourselves back in the days of scandals in EXCHANGE for wealth!!!!!

For now, as an Independent, I remain in the camp of the Democrats until they ignore our gestures and put Hillary out there as a nominee..

Larry   January 26th, 2008 10:38 pm ET

Close your eyes and imagine a candidate with no ethnicity or political party. Suddenly you find yourselves in a position to support the person whose objectives coincide with your own. Refreshing, isn't it?

Lisa   January 26th, 2008 10:36 pm ET

To Kyle (and others) who would discount the legitimacy of Obamas victory simply because he is black and received most of the black vote…why do you not apply the same theory to the fact that most of the white vote went to whites in the race. Why is it that a white voting for a white is an intelligent, rational vote, but a black voting for a black is about race or a reflection of immaturity?

And for the record, I am a 45-year old highly educated white woman way past the age of trying to be cool who supports Obama.

DON JORDAN   January 26th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

MY COMMENT IS THAT A N EX PRESIDENT SHOULD NOT LOWER THE DIGNITY OF THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES,BY GETTING IN THE FRAY AND LOSING HIS DIGNITY BY ATTACKING A CANDIDATE THAT IS RUNNING AGAINST SOME ONE IN HIS FAMILY. IN PAST YEARS , SITTING PRESIDENTS HAVE CALLED ON FORMER PRESIDENTS FOR SOLICITED ADVICE. THAT HAS HAPPENED TO THE PRESENT SITTING PRESIDENT.

LET THE CANDIDATES HAMMER IT OUT AND DISCUSS THE ISSUES THAT ARE SO IMPORTANT TO THE VOTERS THAT ARE WAITING FOR THIS DIALOGUE.
AN EX PRESIDENT SHOULD SIT ON THE SIDE LINES AND MAKE SURE THAT THEY DISCUSS THE IMPORTANT ISSUES THAT ARE IMPORTANT TO US THE VOTERS.
WHEN IT IS ALL SAID AND DONE,THE COMBATMENTS WILL HAVE TO WORK WITH EACH OTHER IN THE NEAR FUTURE. LET THEM RUN THEIR CAMPAIGN!

DON JORDAN

Mart from Chicago   January 26th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Well, congrats to Obama… But I still think his speech was over the hills… I have a lot of doubts of him changing the politics in Washington. He seems so sure that he can and he seems so sure that he can work together with all the other "old" politics. But his experience in the senate of 2 yrs says that he can't just change politics without the other senators and congressmen. I just see him as another politician, and I put my bet that he will get nothing done (the promises he made) if he gets elected as president.

God I hope Hillary wins in NY, CA, NJ, and others… I have my doubt she will win IL since all the radio stations and newspapers I've heard and read in Chicago is sooo negative towards Hillary. I guess we have to see to Feb 5th so we Clinton and Obama supporters can bash each other then on here and claim our candidates are the best choice to be the president… LOL..

Christian, Tampa FL   January 26th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Those of you who say "oh, well, he only won because there are lots of black people in SC" are ridiculous and you disgust me.

Obama won because he is ready to lead the country beyond the divisive political cycle of Bushes and Clintons that have divided this country for twenty years.

Obama can unite this country and improve our image around the world. I for one am sure fired up and ready to go!

Dwayne, Pa   January 26th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Kyle, I do not understand the basis for your comments. Experience? Let's see, Hillary Clinton has been in an elected public office for 7 years. Barack Obama has been in an elected public office for 11 years.
Being the wife living in the white house does not count as experience.
Only blacks vote for Obama? HMMM… 24% of whites voted for him tonight. Whites were actually split 3 ways.
Obama also wins the more educated vote. That says a lot.
How can you expect someone such as Senator Clinton to unite and put this country back on the right track, when many Democrats do not like her and will not vote for her, and very very few Republicans will vote for her?
The Republicans are praying for Hillary to win the Dem. nomination because they certainly have plenty of fire power to hit her with.
Sorry Kyle but I just do not see your logic. Maybe you are one of the many "less educated" supporters of Senator Clinton.

Frank   January 26th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Party while you can, Obama supporters! He may have had a chance, but now that he is the "black candidate", no way in the world he will be elected. Even if he gets the democratic party candidacy, that would mean another 4 or 8 years of a Republican Administration!

tom, VA   January 26th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

I can't believe the republicans are saying they will beat Obama. Republicans should admit that the RED state of SC has gone BLUE. Obama got 281,365 votes against the combined votes of McCain and Huckabee 279,723 votes.

Mati put a fork in it because Obama will win this thing for us. The republicans don't scare us, the republicans are afraid of Obama because Obama will drag some republicans to vote for him; both moderate and conservative republicans.

This is the battle for our future and not the past if you missed it and we will win as ONE America under President Obama. IOWA is 98% white and Obama won there, NH is 96% white and Obama almost won there, rural white areas of Nevada Obama won there taking more delegates than Hillary. So whats with the crying that 80% of blacks voted for him? So what are you Hillary supporters saying? That it is okay for Whites to support Obama and blacks can't?

Are you guys that retro-racial? Stop making race an issue because it is not. I wish Obamas mom and dad were alive to be by his side during this historic moment then i wonder what you losers will make an issue of.

The last time I checked Obama is from a white woman and a black man so racial sentiments won't stick on him. Grow up people and stop living in the old age.

Obama 2009! Yay!

Richard from Detroit   January 26th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

No Obama won,t bring this country together.Everyone here putting comments up,you have two eyes and a brain I hope.Its Hispanics against African Americans, Whites against Hispanics,Whites against African Americans, Hispanics against Whites, African American against Whites.The Democratic vote in Nevada, Hillary got the majority Hispanic votes right?Visa Versa for Obama in South Carolina.The same will happen on Super Tuesday.Obama and Hillary seem to represent disorganization then unity, bickering among certain ethnic groups so that they can satisfy their large ego in making personal history.Recession/Depression is the worst they can see happening! The beams holding Pakistan{ and its Nuclear Weapons} are starting to give way and individual states in our country are begining to act on their own{ 1861 anyone} against the powers in Washington.If he has any good ideas why don,t he come up with a solution to solve that problem they have in Kenya where his Momma lives.If he wants to be President of the 21st century he also has to have Global solutions to Global problems, like our Global economy. Nostradamus! I,ll drink to that.

Jay   January 26th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

The only reason Obama won was of AA votes.He got 82% of black votes and 24 % white votes.All other data is irrelevant.Now he will be tagged as black candidate and on feb 5 only 10% of voters would be AA.So he is losing big and I mean big on Feb 5.

Shirley   January 26th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

As a Southern WHITE independent, I heard Obama channeling Dr. King in his presentation. I listen every year to Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech to remind myself as a woman, we have a dream of equality too and that we have come a long way from my grandparents' generation.

Yes, I wish Obama had more experience, but he has some of the better minds in his campaign (including some Clinton execs). I hope he listens to those who know the world and the economy and still brings his enthusiasm to the campaign. I believe he can THINK for himself and not what his husband thinks. Bill turned me off this week; I was torn until then. I was pleasantly surprised to see the SC vote!

Sam   January 26th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Obama won because of Clintons brought race into the election; in fact Hillary was LEADING among blacks until her MLK comments.

Brady   January 26th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Which candidate has a better chance of winning independents and beating the Republican in November? Which candidate is less polarizing? Which candidate is winning the endorsement of red state political leaders like Claire McKaskill of Missouri, Tom Daschel of South Dakota and Ben Nelson of Nebraska? I like Clinton, but if Democrats really want to win the White House, the choice is pretty clear - Obama.

linda   January 26th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Sen. Obama touches our hearts AND our minds, not just our race! He is ethical, intelligent, and of high character—and for these reasons, actually threatens those who DO NOT have these qualities. For him to be discredited "because he's a good orator" is unrealistic—-and this PERSON is very real indeed.

Concerned Voter   January 26th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

53% of voters were black and Obama won 81% of them. There is no way anyone else could have won this "contest" because the math made it impossible. It just goes to show that race works BOTH WAYS and that America HAS NOT moved forward as all of the media and all the Obama supporters would like us to believe.

Brian   January 26th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

There seems to be two kinds of people on this board the racists and people who are above race…… Go OBAMA!

Sharon   January 26th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Wow,

I had reservations about Obama due to his lack of experience, but now I think he's going to be propelled to a huge victory based on this win. Next week's polls should show a huge bounce, and I don't think Clinton will be able to catch him now. He is motivating so many new voters to come out, and they have so much faith in him, I don't think the Republicans will be able to catch him in the general either.

spanky   January 26th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

We are starving for eloquence.
We are desperate to move past the slime of Bush Clinton Bush…
We are eager to hear from someone that didn't have their philosophy forged by Nam.
We have given so many white men so many chances and the bar has been lowered too far to retain the pride we feel as Americans.
We love this country and want someone to lead us into the 21st century - not a rehash of the 20th.
Give this generation a chance. You've left us with deficits, a health care crisis, and a lack of respect abroad and yet we still want a chance. Doesn't that show hope and pride in what this country can achieve?

proud Canadian   January 26th, 2008 10:11 pm ET

I think it is great that Obama won tonight and I can only hope he is gaining momentum. I also think not only do the United States need Obama to bring the country together but I also think the world needs a leader like Obama to bring countries together and clean up the worldwide, scary mess that Bush has created. And two comments for Lee, the whole room was NOT filled with African Americans. The majority of people you could see in the room were white men. And two, I think that you have it backwards, the republicans know they can't beat Obama and need Hillary to win so they have a chance to win in November. There is a lot of old baggage that the republicans can bring up on BOTH Clintons.

Janel, St. Paul, MN   January 26th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

I'm thrilled about tonight's SC vote.

How "Clinton-like" was Senator's congratulatory speech. In one phrase she congratulated him, but then went on to "blah. . .blah. . .blah. . .blah."

Congratulations, Senator Obama. You are the candidate who will bring our country together with promise and integrity!!!

Jhared   January 26th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

This issue about race is only big because it is South Carolina and black votes actually matter. I didn't hear all this commotion when Obama won Iowa. Is there a whiter place on earth?

Theo   January 26th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Hillary is done. She is not a woman, she is a Clinton. Pelosi is a woman who got her political career from her OWN work. Hillary just got it from Bill that is why Bill gots to fight against Obama - because Hillary is weak! Obama has what it takes to make this happen. Obama is the only person who can unite the country.

Ross   January 26th, 2008 10:06 pm ET

Why does this look familiar? Reminds me of the celebration of jury nullification at the O.J. trial. They voted on something other than the issues at hand.

marylou   January 26th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Although I had previously been a great believer in the Clintons, I was turned off by Bill's interference. Hillary should have put a muzzle on him. He was too blatantaly vociferous and obnoxious. It was difficult to determine whether Hillary was running or Bill was running for a 3d term. This completely turned me off. Thus this elderly white Jewish woman will vote for Sen Obama who exudes confidence, intelligence and honesty, traits that are foreign to the current administration.

AUC   January 26th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Kudos to my non-African supporters of Barack Obama. I know we are a better country than the times we're living in now. Let's all come together and work for a change. And to you dear Vincent - we're looking to November - Obama 08!

mgleaso3   January 26th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

I, too, am neither young (50) nor black (I'm white and a woman to boot) and I will definitely vote for Barack Obama. AND I would definitely not vote for Hillary. We don't need a tag-team presidency. As stated before, Obama is the breath of fresh air this country needs to blow away the stench of the politics of old.

Jean   January 26th, 2008 10:03 pm ET

I'm a black female voter from Columbia, SC and a wide cross section of the voting electorate supported Obama. All people, of all colors and all genders. This is what America needs, folks. I'm so tired of the polarization through rhetoric, fear tactics, mud-slinging and divisiveness. It can't be business as usual, if change in Washington is to happen. And change in Washington must happen. The policies of the Bush Administration haven't discriminated. They've hurt just about everybody.

Open your mind to the possibility of something better for America. It's within our grasp.

Thomas - Reno, NV   January 26th, 2008 10:03 pm ET

It only get's worse for you Hillary supporters from here. Prepare to be letdown by your candidate and her husband. She handed him the victory. This is no fluke… he [Obama] knows exactly what he is doing. It's called playing to win without destroying your opponent.

Welcome to the 21st century of politics. If you want the 90's back, build a time machine. Hillary is done…

pinnocio   January 26th, 2008 10:03 pm ET

lmao at all the white racists here,

josiAah   January 26th, 2008 10:01 pm ET

lets people know obama might be our next president if people put racial issues aside.whats wrong having ablack president?the world has woke up,even black pple are human beings.go obamaaaaa

Scott   January 26th, 2008 10:00 pm ET

Barack Obama just got more votes tonight than the ENTIRE NUMBER pf people who voted in the 2004 South Carolina primary. Wow.

Terri   January 26th, 2008 10:00 pm ET

It's not about color, it's about inspiration and the ability to speak to the hearts and minds of our weary country. We are tired of the same old fights the Clintons would bring to the White House and as I see it, Barack Obama is the face and heart of the new world.

CanWeBuildIt?   January 26th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

I just listened to Barack Obama's speech post-S.Carolina. "[Can We Build It?] Yes, We Can!!" Ring a bell? Bob the Builder. "Can We Build It? Yes, We Can!" - an animated preschoolers' video (and one of the few I find inoffensive, insulting or ADD-inducing - nearly all preschoolers' and children's videos seem to be produced and marketed by people without any early childhood or educational training or without any decent ethics re the great affects video products have on young people. Just 'cause they're on the shelf doesn't mean they're appropriate, helpful and not harmful, young parents!).

So Bob the Builder. Think, people! Demand attention to what needs to be repaired!

I really hope Obama, if he's nominated, turns out to be someone who has the cojones to first fight and then to work with those who are left of the opposite party, because our country is in a heck of a mess. I dearly wish young people could understand that politics is not a glamorous art but in part a deceitful art, and that if they weren't so limited by the way media has become only about entertaining them, they might've had the historical information and education they need to help make the informed decisions we in our country so desperately need to have made.

As a personal aside, I must say I cannot overstate the real freeze I feel when any politician mentions religion (as Obama did) or religious allegory or metaphor. I'm not attacking him on that, but there is something important that needs to be said. The days of clergy abuse are not over; they're just a little more 'sophisticated (i.e. coercive or underground)' All I can say to politicians is this: please don't further the obfuscation of clergy abuse by giving them voice in any venue.

I also hope that Obama, if he continues, is able to head us toward single payer health care. I find it very hard to believe that anyone married to a hospital administrator and who talks about the critical and barrier-strewn American health care system as a system that can be reformed with attention to 'costs' (an old and very worn health insurance and medical management company canard) will have the perspective needed to allow us all to have decent health care. They manage their 'costs' to increase their profits and the compensation of their 'managers' and administrators, and to do so, they limit the availability of care, they limit our choices to care for ourselves effectively, they force drugs on us, and they share information in ways that violate the privacy of every American. The days of pretending that health care 'costs' can be 'managed' by managing Americans are over. We need a single payer health care system, to end the immoral compensation and/or profit taking of so many industries that have been created and that have grown by sucking the life blood out of Americans.

clc   January 26th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Thanks be to God for this win!

YES WE CAN!

Phil From Kansas City, MO   January 26th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Lee, you are the dumbest person in the world for that comment and deep down inside, you know and BELIEVE you are, well at least I HOPE you are. Yeah, you got the subliminal message….OBAMA 08

PS. can someone tell Bill to get the heck out of Kansas City (Independence, MO).

Selly   January 26th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Leon
80% just made it quiet clear as fact…

In Iowa 95% of Obama's supporters were white, so was 80% of his Nevada and New Hampshire. Remove your shades and join the party

Bill,NY,NY   January 26th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Lee,
If you're the same person who made the first comment and then the comment about people being stupid in the Bill Bennett response, the irony is delicious. I'm laughing. Some people are indeed stupid. Don't break your mirror.

And, for those of you who are really buying the slop that Republicans are scared of Hillary, come out from under your rock. After the ugly sideshow with Bill the past 2 weeks, everyone is reminded of what they'd be getting with another Clinton administration. No thanks.

Robert Glenn   January 26th, 2008 9:55 pm ET

Anyone who thinks that Hillary Clinton can beat the Republicans in November, especially John McCain is being short-sightedl. I understand people's gravitation towards the first credible female candidate for President, but unfortunately she will make the disenchanted Republicans come to the polls in droves in November. Barack Obama is currently the ONLY candidate talking to independents and republicans to build a WINNING coalition. I respect all Hillary voters, but before you cast a vote for her I sincerely hope you consider her perceived unelectability. She will bring all die-hard Democrats to the polls, but she will also bring all die-hard Republicans to the polls too. I sincerely believe that Obama stands a much better chance of winning in November due to his ability to build this working coalition of Independents, Democrats, and even a few disenchanted Republicans as he has in all the primaries and caucuses so far!!!!

Gobo   January 26th, 2008 9:55 pm ET

To Kyle: You need to accept the defeat with reason. It would be constructive not to play race. Obama is both black and white. He is well positioned to be a “uniter”.

To Lee: What makes you believe republicans can not beat HRC but can beat Obama?

Julie Kay   January 26th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

Another white woman for Obama for president!!! Being just a few years younger than Hillary, I have watched the disgrace for the US from Nixon, Bill Clinton, and George Jr. I am glad we have someone with ethics that has the potential to bring great change and political reconciliation.

For the first time in my life, I am excited about a presidential candidate. Go Obama!!!!!

independent thinker   January 26th, 2008 9:52 pm ET

Forget Hillary, democrats. Obama is fresh. He is the best nominee out of the three leading democrats.

abbey   January 26th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

I think its unfair when some ignorant comments are being said about race in this well educated and enlightened country like america.Look at your history books and see how long blacks have been voting for whites.Everything has a white face on it including ' money'. I thought we are in a democratic country with potpourri of race, color and diversity where you can dream big and have freedom. If america is to be the leader of the world,it needs to show it in so many ways and colors for this generation and generations to come.The main reason why the democratic party is america's party. Lets be fair….

Andrew   January 26th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

I am a Democrat, and my parents are Republicans. How I long for a time when we can actually discuss politics together! Obama is the only candidate from either party who we agree on!

Michael   January 26th, 2008 9:50 pm ET

Blacks vote for blacks? What a surprise. Whites have voted for whites for years. This thing will get ugly with we parse voters’ preferences by looking into their motives. It will be an interesting election. I don’t think either Hillary or Obama are remotely qualified to be president.

Clinton-Obama? Unbeatable ticket? Obama won't say the Pledge of Allegiance and Hillary detests the military uniform.

Beatable. God willing

Rob Mitchell   January 26th, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Lee, polls show that Hillary would have a harder time than Obama against the Republicans. Your comments are racially intolerant and frankly, just ignorant.

Former Michigan, now TN   January 26th, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Unfortunately for some of the bitter Clinton supporters here Bill Clinton started echoing your cynicism and borderline racism. Not only did African Americans in South Carolina - who do make up a CRITICAL part of the Democratic Party in almost every swing state - vote heavily for Obama, but white voters - particularly white men - showed a reasonable preference for Obama as well. This is South Carolina, birthplace of John Edwards, and yet Obama basically tied Hillary among white men after Edwards. Had Obama gotten the 10% of white voters some were predicting then the purely racial analysis might have made sense. If anything, Hillary is now pigeonholed to white women. She only wins white women. Black women voted as strongly for Obama as did black men. So much for that Bill "First Black President" Clinton nonsense.

Beverly   January 26th, 2008 9:48 pm ET

It is sad when you get comments from ignorant people like KYLE like this:

barrack "hussein" obama

Why put that lie on this page as far as Mr. Obama's name, how sad, that you are that lame. Thank goodness the majority of the intelligent people in South Carolina and other parts of this great nation, will drown out little creeps like you who can only come up with some false negativity to attack a man whose shoes command more respect then you! By the way, what are you doing with YOUR life KYLE, that anyone should give your ignorant remarks any consideration.

anthony   January 26th, 2008 9:45 pm ET

lee, what you just said is a big lie, no republican is going to win the white house because they messed up so bad it doesn't matter who the dem nominee is…if everybody voted the party lines …and democrats are coming out in droves the dems win anyway !!! what you said about repubs wanting obama because he is beatable is a fear tactic , were not buying it !!! the only way you could be correct is if white dems don't vote for whatever reason in the big election to spite obama. THE PEOPLE WAN'T CHANGE !!! 4 years Pa Bush , 8 years Bill , 8 years Jr Bush, Now you want 8 more of clinton…where is the change …GIVE A REST !!!

Susan Williams   January 26th, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Add another retired white woman who wants a uniting and dignified President and First Lady — not 2 presidents., both outdated. Here's to the Obamas and a new generation in the White House.! And the miserable Congress.

Leon   January 26th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Susan: sure white people are color-blind, but for black people? 80% just made it quiet clear as fact…

mary shaw   January 26th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

I am pleased to learn that Caroline Kennedy is endorsing Sen Obama, and hope her uncle, Ted Kennedy, will do so as well. Sen Obama is the breath of fresh air so sorely needed in Washington. Sen Obama has not been in Washington long enough to have become tainted with the machinations of so many politicians. The Clintons are experienced but I'm not so sure this is good at this point, so I have decided to vote for Sen Obama. What he may lack in experience is balanced by his extremely intelligent thinking and actions.

v.ananthan   January 26th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

It`s a good win OBAMA..But I hope hillary will win the nomination..

chevy   January 26th, 2008 9:40 pm ET

I AM SO SAD THAT YOU: LEE, KYLE, Vincent (we share the same first name), MATI you all hold A VERY STRONG HATRED FOR senator Obama. Why? The man has done nothing wrong yet, your prejudices blind you. Talk about prejudice i was raised to believe females were lower than males but through time i have grown to love and respect the opposite gender, in the begining the clintons were my favs, i hated obama, i didnt like the though that this BLACK guy would run for the white house and screw up horribly and ruin that oppurtunity for other african americans. But he didnt, Hillary attacking the man with all her strenght for the no reason at all except fear of a revolution of change. Take heed, America is Obama nation
P.S. Im African American.