January 29, 2008
Posted: 10:30 AM ET
The presidential contenders meet on neutral terrain.
The presidential contenders meet on neutral terrain.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – It could have been a moment for Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton to demonstrate the civility they say we need in our politics.

Oh, well.

Before the President entered the House Chamber for the State of the Union address, Clinton took a seat three chairs and an aisle away from Obama. While members of Congress were still greeting one another, Clinton crossed the aisle to speak with Democratic Rep. Jim Langvin of Rhode Island, a Clinton supporter. He was seated in front of Obama.

While Clinton was bent over talking to Langvin, who has been in a wheelchair since age 16, the senator sitting next to Barack Obama watched Clinton intently. It was Sen. Ted Kennedy, who had made a splash by endorsing Obama earlier in the day.

Here’s where it could have happened.

When Clinton straightened up, Kennedy quickly reached across Barack Obama to shake Clinton’s hand. She took it. As they spoke, Obama turned away. Then the senators seated to Obama’s right – Ben Nelson and Ken Salazar — both shook Senator Clinton’s hand and talked to her. Instead of doing the same, Obama turned to look at the back of the room. Sen. Claire McCaskill, who has also endorsed Obama and was seated next to Kennedy, reached across the Massachusetts senator — who was still talking to Clinton — and tapped Obama (still twisted toward the back of the room) on the shoulder. McCaskill engaged Obama in conversation until the moment passed.

It all lasted less than five minutes. Neither acknowledged the other all night.

UPDATE: Speaking about the moment Tuesday morning, Obama advisor David Axelrod said in an interview on MSNBC the Illinois senator was not trying to snub Clinton.

"I think he knew that Senator Kennedy and Senator Clinton were friends," he said. "This was obviously an awkward day from that standpoint, and I don't think he wanted to stand there while Senator Kennedy was greeting Senator Clinton. And I think that was an appropriate sentiment."

–CNN's Jessica Yellin

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


markli   February 5th, 2008 2:58 am ET

Obama is a dirty, corrupt politicain.

Maggie   January 31st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Hillary, you are doing great!!!!!!! The wisdom of experience is paying off!!!!!

v.ananthan   January 30th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

OBAMA IS A TRUE GENTLEMAN !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jay00789   January 30th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Wow. Another moment of politics where some one blows something out of proportion. Way yo go every one. It doesn't mean anything. He simply turned away because some one else called his name.

Be careful!   January 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

I am really disappointed in this type of media reporting! Shame on CNN! Please get your facts straight! You (CNN and other media) are adding to an already touchy situation UNNECESSARILY! You're not playing fair! You are making the situation worse than it actually is! Let the debaters fight their own fight. Who is the reporter on this story?

Be careful!   January 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

This morning Obama stated that he was, in fact, talking to someone else when this picture was taken. He said someone asked him a question. Remember, be careful about what the media reports! It's not always true! Don't be so gullible!

Be careful!   January 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

He looks like he’s looking down at something or someone. Are we sure that he was not talking to or listening to someone else. As you can see, the bottom of the picture is cut off. We can’t always believe what the media says happened, actually happened!

Shell   January 30th, 2008 10:04 am ET

HILLARY IS NOT BILL!!! PLEASE PLEASE REMEMBER THAT WHEN VOTING! EVERYONE THINKS SHE IS GOING TO GET IN THE WHITE HOUSE AND BE BILL-WRONG!! REMEMBER SHE VOTED TO GO TO WAR!!!!! ( SHE WILL SAY SHE VOTED FOR DIPLOMACY WHICH IS HER SHADY WAy OF SAYING WAR) I DONT CARE WHAT SHE SAYS SHE VOTED TO INVADE IRAQ AND NOW LOOK WHERE WE ARE AT! DO YOU REALLY WANT SOMEONE LIKE THIS RUNNING OUR COUNTRY?- WE SUFFERED WITH BUSH AND SHE SUPPORTED HIM. PEOPLE ARE BLIND

Shell   January 30th, 2008 9:56 am ET

This is so incredibly stupid and poor judgment by CNN to cover something so grade school. This sounds like something my 15 year old niece would be involved in. Ok so he didnt shake her hand – who gives a rats!!! She reached across him to shake everyone's hand around him but now its an issue because he turned to talk to someone else. This is pathetic and CNN should be ashamed for even having an article dedicated to something so childish. She played the race card to the fullest and now that he doesnt shake her hand he snubbed her? Wow that is impressive. This is the type of stuff that makes people not want to vote. Just stupid- CNN please please please cover something a little more newsworthy- and no I'm not talking baout Unfitney Spears!

KGee   January 30th, 2008 9:52 am ET

Can we focus on Peace in the Middle East? Or bringing our troops home. Come on People let's not get off track.

Angela   January 30th, 2008 9:52 am ET

Just had to make this the 2000th post!!!!!
Go Hillary all the way to White House.!!!
Oh, yeah, please pick Edwards as your running mate.
AND THANK YOU FLORIDIANS!!
COME ON SUPER TUESDAY!!

Angela   January 30th, 2008 9:49 am ET

Just had to make this the 2000th post!!!!!
Go Hillary all the way to White House.!!!
Oh, yeah, please pick Edwards as your running mate.
AND THANK YOU FLORIDA!!!

Carolinas   January 30th, 2008 9:49 am ET

His behavior is questionable given that he prides himself as the uniter who can bring different parties together. He has shown a lack of respect and a snub like attitude that I find unwise and inappropriate for one running for office. To make matters worse, he actively followed President Bush in order to shake his hand and his wife sent someone to ask President Bush for his autograph.

He is portraying an image/dream that we can find appealing but I have to say that days go by, I realize that it's nothing but a facade.

IMPORTANT: In addition to snubbing Hillary, he has also snubbed his grandmother(on his father's side.) His Grandmother still lives in poverty in Kenya and he has not shown any interest in helping her.

The media needs to realize its duty to report the truth in an unbias way in order to give its viewers fair and balanced information on all candidates. No one should get a free ride. Our future depends on getting the right person to lead our country.

Don't get distracted by beautiful words and poetry, use your mind and think about your future and who has the best chance and ability to implement change and be a strong advocate on your behalf. From my point of view Hillary is the best candidate for our future..

Tony   January 30th, 2008 8:59 am ET

IF HILLARY HAD BEEN THE ONE TO TURN AWAY FROM OBAMA EVERY NEWSPAPER IN THE COUNTRY WOULD HAVE A HEADLINE SCREAMING:

"HILLARY CLINTON – RACIST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

OBAMA ISN'T EVEN AS CONVINCING A LIAR AS I ORIGINALLY THOUGHT!

KC, Missouri   January 30th, 2008 8:55 am ET

FemaleVoter January 29, 2008 11:01 am ET

What a picture. Clinton could be friendly and shake hands with Kennedy, but Obama turned away? He had a perfect chance to be gracious and blew it. I'm for her. She's the one who can be the real uniter.
———————————————————————————————————–

"She's the one who can be the real uniter." Ha! Ha! … yeah ? Then why would even I as a Democrat rather vote for a Republican than for her/them ? It would be sad if the Billaries make it with their dirty campaign – but it will be a feast to see Mrs. "35 years of experience" being shredded by the Republicans

Andy   January 30th, 2008 8:54 am ET

Who cares. It sounds like kindergarten or high school. When they run together as Pres and VP nobody will remember this incident. I don't care how they treat each other, they are both competitive and both want to win this campaign. What will he or she do as President, how will my life be better, how will the country be better. How will young people be able to afford college, buy a house, raise a family? What will they do to make the country better and help families who have a parent working two jobs in order to pay the bills and put food on the table? What will they do to make the economy better and lower the deficit, cut costs, save tax payers money, use tax payer's money wisely? I laugh at the comments about lacking experience, I thought this country was started by inventors, farmers, business men etc. They got more done in five years then Congress has achieved in my life time. They forget who they serve and who pushes the buttons on election day. Let's add 'None of the Above" on the voting machines, get rid of the electoral college and put a recall system in place, let them get paid only when they show up to the capital building, cancel their life time paycheck and benefits. We will really start to see progress.

Sarah   January 30th, 2008 8:24 am ET

You can make excuses for Obama all you want, but the bottom line is when you are President of The United States you can't snub anyone like he did Hillary. President Bush and the Speaker of The House don't like each other. But when they are in the same room, they treat each other with respect and shake hands and talk. Thats what a President is suppose to do. If Obama can't even look at her, then what's they say to all of us what he will do in the future as President. I lost all respect for him when he did this. His problem is he can dish it out but he can't take it. when it's thrown his way. SO inmature of him He is no JFK thats for sure.

Ibra   January 30th, 2008 8:11 am ET

This is one of the most ignorant media hypes I've seen since Al Sharpton came to Louisiana for the "Jena 6″ trial. Even if he did intentionally snub her – SO? Does it really deserve all this press? She could have made the same attempt to shake his hand as everyone thinks he should have made. The two of them are competing for leadership of the country not playing out a scene on Geral Hospital. Will we next be saying Brady & Manning are childish if they don't sit down for a spot of tea before the Superbowl?

Tired   January 30th, 2008 7:19 am ET

Grow up all of you. Your acting just as childish as you are saying Obama was. There are a lot bigger issues than whether or not he went out of his way to say "hi" to a person who has been attacking his character everyday. You just want to find reasons to go after Obama, and lets be honest here, we all know why that is.

allen   January 30th, 2008 7:02 am ET

I have no problem with Obama spuning Mrs. Clinton. HOWEVER… don't LIE about it! Are we expected to be that dumb?

"I was turning away because [Sen.] Claire [McCaskill] asked me a question as Sen. [Ted] Kennedy was reaching for her."

Wrong. McCaskill did not say a word to you until you were already knee deep in looking at the back of the room, and Mr. Kennedy was about all out of conversation topics with Mrs. Clinton. Just come out and say you didn't feel like shaking her hand. I'd have much more respect for you.

Fem4Hillary   January 30th, 2008 1:45 am ET

I don't know if anyone would agree but in one of the pictures Obama looks pretty upset (enraged w/b appropiate) with T. K.?? Maybe he did not get the Memo about "only able to unify with those who I approve" Teddy careful.. I would make sure it's okay with Mr. Unifier before shaking someone hands….LOL!!

Thank you Hillary for caring about and listening to what the PEOPLE think in Florida & Michigan! Even though the delegates were taken from them…..

Go Hillary!

JB from AZ   January 30th, 2008 12:28 am ET

Is this really the issue? We as a country are trying to weigh out the issues that are important to us as citizens of the United States. It should not matter if they are black or white, female or male, more than that who cares if they say hi to each other. I certainly do not. The camara took a picture and because of the way it looks the media blows it up, and the american people has once again taken it out of context. What should matter is how they represent what we want for our country. A co-worker told me that she hates politics, and I did not understand why someone would not take an interest in their own country. Now I do. I was going to vote, and have always encouraged my children to do so. This has changed my mind. Instead of focusing on what is really important we are more concerned about who shakes who's hand. We had 8 years of hell, and it looks like we will have at least 4 more no matter who is president. Thanks CNN for another vital, important, and fulfilling story. If this is what our future reporters are being taught, they are poor excuse for teachers.

Angela   January 29th, 2008 11:22 pm ET

Obama acted like a childish baby. and not a good stateman at all.
And what about the "change" he keeps spouting??? He acted like a spiteful adolescent kid.
Yesh, that's who you want running this country. Not!!!!
He and his fortune cookie message. """Change""" Give me a break.
A pictures means a thousand words.

HILLARY JUST TOOK FLORIDA BY A LANDSLIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AND THE VOTES WILL BE COUNTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OH, SNAPP!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kate   January 29th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

HERE ARE THE ABSOLUTE FACTS… I WAS THERE ON THE FLOOR LAST EVENING AND I SAW WITH MY OWN EYES AS OBAMA DELIBERATELY TURNED AWAY FROM SENATOR HILLARY CLINTON WHEN SHE POLITELY GREETED SENATOR KENNEDY AND WAS ABOUT TO OFFER HER GREETINGS TO SENATOR OBAMA.

I DISCUSSED THIS WITH MY COLLEAGUES WHO ALSO NOTICED IT AS WE WERE PURPOSELY WATCHING SENATOR CLINTON'S MOVEMENTS AS SHE ENTERED THE ROOM TO SEE IF WHETHER OR NOT SHE WOULD SIT CLOSELY TO SENATOR OBAMA.

LATER, ONE OF MY COLLEAGUES WHO SAW THE OBAMA SNUB AGAINST CLINTON PHONED ONE OF THE MAJOR NEWS CABLE NETWORKS AND REPORTED WHAT HE SAW, AFTER WHICH TIME THE INCIDENT WAS REPORTED ON THE AIR AND WHICH WAS FOLLOWED BY AT LEAST ONE PHOTOGRAPH OF THE INCIDENT.

DRAW YOUR OWN CONCLUSIONS, BUT I SAW THE SNUB PERSONALLY, AS DID MANY OTHERS. THE FACT THAT OBAMA HAS REPEATEDLY DENIED THIS INCIDENT, AND WENT SO FAR AS TO SAY THAT HE WAS DISTRACTED BY A QUESTION FROM ANOTHER SENATOR STANDING BESIDE HIM, IS A COMPLETE FALSEHOOD.

Debra   January 29th, 2008 8:50 pm ET

If you don't believe this kind of stuff is important, just look at all the folks on this page who have said, "Thanks for changing my mind, I'm voting for Hillary now."

Call it petty, call it frivolous, but this is a very close race. Any bit of information we get about the character of our candidates matters.

For what it's worth, there's no way this was just an "awkward moment." Obama couldn't have NOT seen his opponent coming. I don't know what he thinks about her as a person but chances are he felt sorry for her losing the Kennedy endorsement and/or didn't want to look like he was gloating. Yet another sign of his immaturity.

oregon   January 29th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

So an akward moment between politicians is a "revelation" for the supporters of Ms. Clinton. This is so staggeringly naive and frankly stupid that I truly fear for my country.

Its sad to see that vehement hatred so permeates our society.

Mae   January 29th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

BO did not tell the truth about this issue and neither did the female senator that was also on the airplane when he was interviewed regarding this. He said that the senator had asked him something and he was responding, if you look at the video her eyes are closed and she is clapping her hands as he turns to her away from Senator Clinton. So you were caught at a bad moment own it, don't start lying to the American people already. He also stated in the video that the democratic primary in Florida is a "beauty contestant, I wonder if that is the same as a "fairy tale" for the people in Florida. I am not against BO but he should be more manly and honest about his actions.

LUPITA   January 29th, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Well, here my take on it all. If I were him I would shook her hands and here is why: even when you dislike your opponent, you got to show them that you are not evading them. My mama said never ever give your enemy your back. It will be easier for him/ her to take your by surprise.

hieu   January 29th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Obama is not what he say he is…….

Michiel   January 29th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

While I am not a Hillary supporter, I have to say Barack Obama behaved very badly last night. We have had 7 years of a destructive, petulant, self-centered child in the White House, do we really want another? I am a supporter of the forgotten candidate, John Edwards, however, should Hillary get the nomination, I will support her. On the other hand, should it be Obama, I will definitely have to think about it.

docrock,tx   January 29th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Can anyone say "timeout"?After posting on this page faithfully for four months,I must say this is nuts.But cool!!!If this is what it takes to bring the electorate,then so be it.When Biden,Richardson and Dodd were running,this page had tepid response.Kudos to CNN for recognizing a moment.Each side will play it to it's advantage,but the truth is somewhere in between.Remember Hsu?Remember Rezco?This may be the first election decided by the Vice-Presidential choice ever.Way to go CNN!!!!!!!!!!Let the comments fly!Just remember,your vote may choose a President!

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

YEAH HE SNUBBED HER AND?

James, PA   January 29th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

This is the example of the candidate for change in Washington politics? If the situation were reversed, you know that the race baiters in the Obama campaign would have called Hillary's back turning as racist. Obama's action was pathetic, sexist, and dumb! All of which do not present qualities in a President that I would vote for.

CONGRATULATONS OBAMA! Your actions are making everyone UNITE behind Hillary! Too bad the words you gave today don't match up with your actions yesterday. Now who's playing fast and loose with the truth Barak? Thanks for helping make my decision for 2008!

GO HILLARY 2008!

charles   January 29th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Boxers shake hands go to their corners then come out swinging. It's called respect. Obama supporters are having a hard time with this one!!

rev03   January 29th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

Just one more act of immaturity.
Obama can't be trusted. Anyone who can't look someone in the eye and looks down while answering a question is a complete lier in my book.
Also, you really want a President whos own spouse didn't want him to run. What a diplomate for our county Obama's Wife will make.
Go Hillary

Seth, South Beach, FL   January 29th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Barack Obama truly showed his colours yesterday. I'm African American and do remember the good deeds the Clinton's did for the minority groups (Latinos and African Americans), a proven track that no other candidate can measure up to.

Hillary took Barack to school.

Steph   January 29th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

Longbench, you seem to be rather judgemental, yourself. Are you trying to be a positive example?

kay   January 29th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

p.s. should have said Thursday night.
States don't make the decision. It's delegates. And thats another convoluted topic.

marlyn   January 29th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

i don't want a president who can grow while he is in the presidency….i want a person who is "ready" to take on the likes of the enemies of the U.S. obama is not that person. thin skinned, petulant, easily irritated is what i see. go hillary! keep on thumping him and watch him unravel…i am waiting to see it.

Hillary2008   January 29th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Wanna know how much character and integrity obama has? go to:
sommervillenews.typepad.com and look in the March 2007 archives until find obama.

That is if CNN doesn't block this – since they are pro-obama. Had it been Clinton doing the "snubbing" – it would've been headlines news and all the Hillary bashing we've been allowed.

Shame on you CNN!

Hope   January 29th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

Beth January 29, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I think the biggest point of all this it shows Hillarys true character going to shake Tedd Kennedys hand

I agree Hillary has alot of character shaking the hand of the man that sold her out. That is what I admire the most of Hillary. Clinton 08

Dee Ward Mena, AR   January 29th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Why doesn't the press just admit that they hate Hillary and LOVE obama. She has had nothing but bad press and he has had nothing but good press from CNN. I think obama could have been at least cordial to a fellow candidate. How much would it have taken for him to at least look and smile at her. He didn't have to TOUCH her.
This shows the obama that I always knew was there. I am so disappointed that CNN has chosen to show it's bias and back obama. It has been very obvious from the beginning of this campaign that they want obama to be the candidate. I guess because they are all republican and they know the republicans can beat him and can't beat Senator Clinton. I'm sure referee's have preferences in a game but they can't show bias and I am sure reporters have preferences also but they sure shouldn't show it and CNN can't seem to help itself. I thing they need to go back to school and learn that the media is not suppose to show bais. It looks like CNN would have someone reading the blogs on their own website and see how disgusted the viewers are with this bias. Most all blogs are condemning CNN for their unfair practices. Wake up CNN or you might lose a lot of viewers.

Jack   January 29th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

Sen. Clinton made an unwarranted remark with regards to drug use of the part of Sen. Obama at their last debate. Which brought a lot of negative chatter from the audience. They (the audience) knew instinctivly what a low handed remake that was. It was a desparate attempt by Sen. Clinton to take a hurtful stab at Sen. Obama. So, the point being, she is as vindictive as the next guy…er, I mean candidate. Barak Obama for President!

longbench   January 29th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

many of you should start acting like an educated citizenry rather than gossip-mongering and name-calling. ridiculous. this is what american politics is really about, I see.

DonI   January 29th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

Still funny how Obama supporters don't want to talk about this non-issue, but can't stop on any other…

jay mo   January 29th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

wow, i am overly surprised at the spin that has been put on such an issue that doesn't really matter. Don't we have real issues to debate and respectfully disagree on? i think that we could afford to divert our attention towards something other than who supposedly didn't talk to who, and why…. sounds like something that my children would come home with from the local highschool…

Beaches   January 29th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

You know its the little things like this that show who you really are, not the bloated speeches he's so good at giving. Isn't he the one talking about how he's the candidate of "change" and how it's not going to be the same old Washington politics as usual? He's the one that's going to bring people together, let's put it another way, "he's the uniter not the divider", and you know where you've heard that before. He's done this before at the end of one of the (Democ) past debates. Shortly after he first got into this race, it was said that he is "thin skinned", I think that this kind of thing is just a peak at who he really is and so one need only guess at how is would react, if he gets the nomination,

Kel   January 29th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Yeah, just like I've always said, Obama is out of his league. He looks more like a high school principal than a political figure. He needs a lot more time to gain a lot more experience!!

JAG   January 29th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

WHY DID HILLARY SKIP OBAMA TO REACH OVER AND SHAKE THE HAND OF A THIRD PERSON? WHO IS RUDE HERE? OBVIOUSLY IT'S HILLARY. SHE COULD START BY REACHING OUT TO OBAMA FIRST BEFORE SHE GOES TO THE NEXT PERSON. OBAMA IS A GENTLEMAN AND HE WILL BE THE NEXT PRESIDENT

Joe   January 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Don't get it.

MSNBC and CNN hosts talked for days after New Hampshire about Hillary and if her crying changed the vote as a win for for her.

Are they now preparing the same talk for after tonight when Obama gets beat badly in Florida and replay the same thing after Super Tuesday on Feb 5th about the "photo" that changed the campaign?

LT, Cumming, GA   January 29th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Obama shows is true maturity and how good he will be to unify the country.
If he was elected, how would he deal with Putine if they were in disagreement…
Great image of an American president!

Amy   January 29th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

As Oprah says "When someone shows you who they are, believe them", I think we have seen that Obama lacks the maturity to lead the most powerful nation on Earth.

Fat Lady   January 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Actually, check Sneator Obama's victory acceptance speeches. The ones that I noted were his Iowa speech, his SC speech and his comments when the teacher's union lost in the Nevada Court System. He took pot-shots at the losing side each time. Quite a contrast to the way Senator Clinon reacted for her victories.

Can't seem to accept any wins with graciousness. Don't see how one can talk about hope, dreams, etc., and unite people if one keeps grudges.

Fat Lady   January 29th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Actually, check Sneator Obama's victory acceptance speeches. The ones that I noted were his Iowa speech, his SC speech and his comments when the teacher's union lost in the Nevada Court System. He took pot-shots at the losing side each time. Quite a contrast to the way Senator Clinon reacted for her victories.

Can't seem to accept any wins with graciousness.

Nick   January 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Wow, dont you all have anything better to report on? This is ridiculous, reminiscent of the he-said she-said immaturities of high school. Grow up everyone.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

HRC and her supporters will PAY a big price on Super Tuesday for making this none issue an iSSUE, instead of dealing with the problems facing this nation, HRC supporters and campaign staffers who post on this BLOG seem to think Americans are stupid or idiots! You will find out otherwise and the hard way on Feb 5th, obama 08!

Steph   January 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Hillary is stronger than Barak.

Joel   January 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I think CNN and everyone is attempting to create the news as opposed to report it. Senators Obama and Clinton have had some sharp exchanges, but have always been completely civil with each other during the entire length of this long, long campaign. But even if not, I question CNN's news credentials by focusing on trival speculation at the expense of reporting worthy news.

Naturally after a long-time ally like Senator Ted Kennedy came out with a splashy endorsement for Barack Obama yesterday, it would not have been appropriate for Barack to have stayed there and overheard their conversation. Seems like he tried to do the polite and decent thing by turning away and let them talk privately.

Regarding CNN, there is enough news of substance to report on without stooping to populist conjecture. I would encourage CNN to focus on reporting the news professionally and stop trying to compete with People Magazine and the tabloid press.

Jo   January 29th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Turning his back on his subordinates……….. a look at things to come for americans voting for him

Amy   January 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

As Oprah says "When someone shows you who they are, listen!"… are you listening, America? Obama lacks the maturity necessary to lead the most powerful country on the planet.

Dem08   January 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Fred, yes Hillary voted YES. We know. However, her vote has been distorted. Her vote was to give the President authority to pursue military action if all else failed and it was proven that their were WMD's. This was not Yes, go blow them up vote. Bush and his cronies manipulated the facts,the congress and the American people. Its my memory that close to 90% of the public supported the invasion based on the information we were given by our President. Hillary did not draw up the battle plan. The President botched this, lied to us all. How dare people now, including Obama, be so hypocritical. Obama had no knowledge of what was going on. She has admitted this was wrong. However, we must put the blame where it belongs, George Bush.

I am so tired about hearing about this.

Isabella   January 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Oh Fred, Fred, Fred, Fred, Fred. Hate to burst your bubble-but Redko and Iraq had relations in bed with money. And Redko was best friends with Obama. Yep, I would have voted no to the war, too.

Paul, Tulsa OK   January 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Many of u are making more of this than there was.

Obama did nothing here to snub her….. To think it proves that you are imature and pretty much a nut.

And of Hillarys experience…what experience.
Her time as 1stlday doesnt count…and as a congressperson its not enough to matter.

Besided with her early day comments about health care she should never ever become president.

Oh, and about Mr BJ hubby .

SHe knew full well her husband was fooling around for decades.
To deny that proves that she doesnt have the capability to be president.

Marty   January 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

kathleen,

boloney is spelled B.O.L.O.G.N.A. I do agree with you, however. What's that? I'm switching to MSNBC. HAHA..

Vikki, Tennessee   January 29th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

Like it or not, this is newsworthy. The President of the US is the person who represents America as a whole. I think that person should have a basic knowledge of how to show courtesies to those whom we may not agree with, but would like to maintain a civil relationship with. If Obama slighted a foreign leader, it would be much bigger news than this. I’m confident that Hillary and Ted Kennedy don’t like each other, and yet both managed an adult handshake and a polite smile.

yoyo   January 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

People can you think for one minute. Obama knows that every body in that room and every body in America were wating for this encounter. If he were a smart person he were the one looking for Clinton to shake her hand. He did the most stupid and dumb thing in politics. I would like to see him with the Syrian president o worse with Hugo Chavez.
Americans I' m from Cuba and I'm telling you Clinton is no the Devil you guys haven't met the devil yet. that role is for Fidel castro and Hugo Chavez. You should be proud of the freedom that you have and elected a president with experience to manage the internationals issues.

Obama   January 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

IRON MY SHIRTS!!! IRON MY SHIRTS!!!!

-Obama-

World Citizen UK   January 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

G R O W U P A L L O F Y O U !!!!!!!

F O R G O D ' S S A K E G E T B A C K T O T H E I S S U E S !!!!!

I F Y O U W O U L D V O T E F O R O R A G A I N S T A C A N D I D A T E,

O N T H E B A S I S O F A P I C T U R E, T H E N G O D H E L P

A M E R I C A !!!!!

Don   January 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

For those of you saying this is not news, you are wrong. Its news because the Obama campaign has tried to lift Barack Obama up to a God-like status. He is the one who will bring us all together we are told. He will work across party lines. He is a fresh face for Washington. Well, this is one example that shows he is only a politician. Last night, he set beside the old democratic establishment and when the Dems all sit down, while republicans stood up, it shows that he will be no differant. He is playing party politics. Do you think Kennedy will actually let Obama change Washington?

This is news because Obama himself has elevated himself to a position that no poltician can hold. This is news because its time we know more about this man that we follow blindly. Ask yourself is this would not be a huge story if Hillary would have been the one to look away. Whats worse is that Obama has lied now about what happened. That is news. That is the last thing we need in DC. Bush was enough for a lifetime. No one complained last week when Bill Clinton was all over the news for a similar non-important story. The differance, this story has some truth behind it. Obama, intentionally, or not, snubbed Hillary Clinton. He has told us that he is better than that. That is the news story.

Beth   January 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I think the biggest point of all this it shows Hillarys true character going to shake Tedd Kennedys hand…

Sam   January 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Maybe, Obama will say "that's not what I meant"??? Spin what you want. This picture showed the true you. Let's hope that it's not too late for America to see the true Obama. He can dish out, but, he can't take the heat. This is the kind of President only the Republican will do. Democrats and Independent, lets vote for the Democrat to be President. And that is Madame President Clinton.

Ken   January 29th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Finally someone who is REAL – sick of the fake stuff… fake smile…

I am surprise she did not send Bill instead to the state of union while she campaign in Florida.

kudo – she should get some votes from this, like the fake tears after OH

Steph   January 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Where is Al Sharpton in all of this?!?!

Fred   January 29th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

This is not an issue folks….Will one of Hillary's supporters answer this question for me. WITH ALL OF HER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AT THE TIME, DID HILLARY VOTE "YES" FOR THE IRAQ WAR? SHE KNOWS NOW IN HINDSIGHT IT WAS NOT THE CORRECT THING TO DO. WELL PEOPLE WE HAVE ONE CANDIDATE THAT GOT IT CORRECT AND DOES NOT HAVE TO SAY IN HINDSIGHT…..HE TOOK A STAND AND VOTED "NO" WHEN IT COUNTED. LET'S VOTE FOR SOMEONE THAT GET'S THINGS RIGHT THE FIRST TIME. THE NEXT PRESIDENT SHOULD BE SENATOR BARACK OBAMA……..

RKS   January 29th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Whats a big deal about it ? I wouldn't act differently in that situation. I do think Hillary did a great job of shaking hands with Ted Kennedy even though he endorsed Barak with such a fan fare a day before. Way to go Hillary ………….Hillary 08

Erica   January 29th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

This is so absurd. Why is this even news?

JI   January 29th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

I ditto with Billy, shame on you, CNN.. This cannot be a news!!! Stop teh crap!!!

Aidyn   January 29th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Mr Obama, inmature!

He wont stand up to Clinton but he will meet with leaders of unstable countries.

Anne   January 29th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

The Democrats will lose in November, regardless of who is the nominee. The American people are fed up with being used by the liberal elite. This is not the liberal elite's private kingdom. This country belongs to all of the people and we are taking it back in November by electing Mike Huckabee and like-minded Congressmen and women who support the FairTax.

Harry in Chicago   January 29th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Mr. Obama has lost my vote today. I have been looking for signs of true consistant maturity and leadership qualities to reinforce my decision to vote fo rthe maverick of change. What I saw today was childisness and cowardice. Not presidential at all.

Joel   January 29th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

CNN is the Jerry Springer of news networks. They are hoping for a fight.

Harry in Chicago   January 29th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Mr. Obama has lost my vote. I have been looking for signs of maturity and leadership to re-inforce my decision to vote for the maverick of change. Today I saw childishness and cowardice. Not so presidential at all.

Joel   January 29th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

This is ridiculous. So petty, so juvenile. You can do a better job than this, CNN!

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

The people are speaking
obama is the clear choice
the past versus the future!

Peter Waters   January 29th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

I would have come to expect it "i did not mean to" – Obama.

He always "does not mean to" or "did not mean it like that". We need a new excuse.

Hillary a mature leader!

HILLARY 2008!

Kathleen   January 29th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

CNN let the "best political team of TV" do what they do best. Stop writing soap operas. This is not news.

tara   January 29th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

ARRRHHH! R we in grade school. And we wonder why some citizens don't vote. I am going to write Lou Dobbs in for our next Pres.

Brian   January 29th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

They waved hello to each other sources (unbiased) say. Why don't all you people that react to a framed picture and over react, just remove your selves from the political process. You have shown to the world an inability to judge anything fairly and intelligently. Therefore, in my mind, the world would be a better place if you didn't vote.

Dennis   January 29th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

I fail to see the big deal. Hillary didn't come over to speak to Obama. She was talking to someone else, and then people around Obama reached out to talk to her. It doesn't seem like she went out of her way to talk to him either.

This is just another mole hill getting turned into a mountain while real issues are ignored.

Donna   January 29th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

For all those who say that because Hillary's treatment of Obama has been so mean and nasty that they too would have turned their back and not shook her hand, you are not running for President. We might be excused for acting like petulant children but presidential decorum demands that our leaders rise above and reach out. You can also look at the photo and make up your own story about what was going on, but my understanding is that at least five journalist witnessed what was going on and all interpreted it the same way–she was snubbed and disrespected. Still deciding who I will vote for but this incident along with "you're likable enough" definitely is something I will look at as well as some of Hillary's misleading statements.

ps   January 29th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

JUST SAY NO TO OBAMA
DUMP HIM TO KEENYA
WE'LL GIVE HIM ONE WAY TICKET
SORRY NO DEMOCRATIC TICKET

OMG   January 29th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

This is the last time I will ever post on the CNN site again. Talk about ridiculous, petty journalism.

If people allow an image of some silly millisecond in time and one person's slant on the situation to form their voting decision and opinion of a presidential candidate, we have even more serious problems in this country than I had imagined.

If you were there or had seen the entire incident on video, you may have a valid opinion. Does it really matter that much anyway?

CNN just lost my respect and interest. Wonder how long this will hang in the otherworld of moderation…

Nigel Harrison   January 29th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Bob;

On the money. When an article like this gets so much attention we in America deserve the worst of the worst as our leaders ala Bush-clinton-Bush.

Political literacy in this country is beyond laughable – but what should we expect from a nation that spends more time focused on Britney's break down, Anna Nicole Smiths death and other trivia than it does on real issues like the amount of needless deaths from baseless wars.

An education system that sees most children above grade 4 languishing compared to other countries or the fact that
since 1949 the U.S. has given Israel a total of $83.205 billion. The interest costs borne by U.S. tax payers on behalf of Israel are $49.937 billion, thus making the total amount of aid given to Israel since 1949 $133.132 billion. – disgusting, we deserve the results of what we sow and don't stand up against.

Kathleen   January 29th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

CNN cut the baloney and just report the news. The media can make gold from horse manure. Just put your "best political team on TIV" to work doing what they do best.

Vince Los Angeles, CA   January 29th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

January 29, 2008 3:43 pm ET

OMG……you women should stop crying!!! Geez! HRC was endorsed by Maxine Waters today…so you all can stop crying about how much Obama won SC because of the "black vote" (which is such an incredibly naive thing to believe anyway)……

I am laughing at all the HRC supporters hanging onto the thin thread of hope (irony that) that HRC will somehow "crush" Obama come Feb 5th……since none of you is the least bit politically savvy….let me "break it down" for you poor saps….

Feb 5th will come and go…HRC will probably garner the majority of votes but the DELEGATES will be split 3 ways between HRC, Obama and Edwards….Edwards doesn't have a chance but you are crazy if you think he's going to drop out! EDWARDS IS GOING TO DELIVER HIS DELEGATES TO OBAMA IN EXCHANGE FOR EITHER A VICE PRESIDENCY OR PLATFORM COMMITMENT. He'll blackmail Obama into actively pursing one of Edwards' platform agendas…..

Ted Kennedy just crowned Obama King…….you all should just sit back and enjoy the ride….!

LOL….

George   January 29th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Obama has a challenger in Hillary and he cant even face up to her and shake her hand…hmmm….will he turn his back on other challenges and problems he has…i think that was a rude and callous way for Obama to behave. He should have been gracious and should have shaken her hand and given that 1000 watt bipartisan smile of his and got her to sit next to him….isnt that what he says he will accomplish!

nancy Hnat   January 29th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

This is ridiculous. I would love to know how many of you self righteous hypocrites have ever had a picture taken and not be aware of what is going on around you. Has this campaign turned into the National Enquirer where photos are taken and lies are written. This makes me sick. How low we stoop and how stupid we can be. Stop this nonsense and let's grow up.

Olan Hill   January 29th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Since Hillary has had to experience and suffer from the over-exaggerated statements made by Bill Clinton over the last week (promted primarily by the press), it's only fair that Barrack get the same treatment. Call it "tit for tat" if necessary.

Henry   January 29th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Unfortunately our news media has misjudged this situation as indicated by Mr. Obama this morning. Foks lets be honest if someone lied about you continuously, misrepresented you record, and intentionally played the race card on you to pull support awar from you How would you feel. I believe Mr. Obama, but……. I would have a hard time being nice after both husband and wife attacked me unduly. Come on folks………

Elaine, Atlanta   January 29th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Enough is enough, so what??

Isabella   January 29th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Like I said-I don't care about the picture. I am just scared if Obama wins, especially after reading his autobiography-his looking for his identity. He shows an obvious distaste for any white who holds power(his father and grandfather were civil servants to the white man). The only time he acknowledges white power is when his hand is out.
If Hillary were just for the female gender, I would feel the same. I would rather vote Republican, then vote for Obama, who renounced his white heritage and stood by his black, even though his father deserted him and his mother, to marry a third wife.
The Kennedy's do not influence me-any "clanship" went with John and Bobby.

Let's face it-all of them have skeletons in their closets. Politics is all about money. But I want experience and someone with a backbone, as my President. And I see that in Hillary-she is scared of no one.

Dr. C   January 29th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Okay readers, I saw the entire event on my new HDTV and could see all the nuances, facial expressions, and all. Not one to support Hillary Clinton, nor Obama for that matter, I can say in all candor that it was a snub by Obama when Kennedy and Hillary shook hands. Obama did exactly what the reporter relayed – as soon as he saw them moving toward one another he looked away to the back of the room. It's the facts and my new HDTV wouldn't lie.

On another note, Obama, whatever you do, please don't get in a car with Teddy driving. His past performance is a predictor of his future performance if you get my drift.

See ya,
Dr. C

sharon   January 29th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

When I read this article it dissapoints me. This is the man that many want to be our President and represent our country? How are we supposed to create peace in other countries if we can not create peace in our own homeland?

sally   January 29th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

This reminds me of high school- who turned what direction in the hall…who is speaking to whom………………
As long as the American public pays attention to these manipulated non-stories, we ain't gonna git to the real stuff…………….too bad………….

Obama is God   January 29th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Obama is GOD. All u mere mortals quiver at his approach. He does not need to show this stupid woman respect. She's just a girl, but he is our savior. Ted Kennedy whose dignity and grace have no bounds, has annoited him and bathed him in the righteous path. Barak will command us and bring about change. Just listen to the beautiful words he says. And to be fair, she was ill tempered and mean to him in the debates. She is a mean, cold, evil women. He does not need to lower himself to shake her hand, he is a GOD! The Republicans will not attack him as nastily as she has, they will respect and fear him. Anyone who questions Obama is a racist as best and a evil demon at worse. All praise Hussien Obama. He can teach us so many things.

gggrrr   January 29th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Who cares about Kennedy? He supported the loser Kerry. And now is supporting the soon to be loser nominee Borat Obama.

farid shakur   January 29th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

What can be said, i think Mr Obama is alittle hurt by the Clintons false or ingenuine posturing and acusations of his past and no longer wants her friendship. This is what politics does to people. Mr Obama has this country at heart he must because you got to be insane to give your precious time on this earth to a setup that is steaped in unforgiven history .

Missouri gal   January 29th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Obama is turning a lot of heads preaching change. What change???? He never goes beyond that. At least we all know where Hillary stands. I just don't see Obama doing anything at all but create confusion. I am very disappointed of my Senator Claire McCaskill throwing her support to Obama. Believe me, I will remember that at her reelection time. Besides, she isn't dointg anything anyway. She was another one that preached change and is not doing a thing.

dbh   January 29th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Forget who subbed who. Instead, both candidates missed a critically important messaging opportunity. Hillary and Obama should have agreed in advance to sit together. This would have sent the most powerful signal of all: Regardless of our differences, we are united when it comes to solving the important issues that the country faces.

Jimmy, Oklahoma Feb. 5th   January 29th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

The ALL Boy's Club otherwise known as the ESTABLISHMENT, yea you know who I am talking about, Kerry, Daschle, Leahy, and now Kennedy. The very men that Obama was campaigning against. I guess one will say or do anything to become President. You do not get those four with out giving something up. Sure they do not want to work for any women either.

Senator Clinton my first Choice, Senator McCain my second. Sorry Obama, men like the ones above make me want to change parties. Not issue's but parties. I really wish our party was not becoming as divided as it has become. I thought better of you then to go down this road. DESPERATION.

Hey AL Sharpton "SHUT YOUR BIG MOUTH" you are a very racist person and the world knows it. Yes black people too can be racist.

Kevin   January 29th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

I dunno why my comments were misposted up the top but I think Obama was in the wrong. So petty!

brian   January 29th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

i like how CNN cropped out the female senator Obama was talking to just to stir up some dirt.

Bob   January 29th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

I'd bet 90% of those who commented here do not know enough about Clinton's or Obama's healthcare or economic or energy policy positions. Trivia like this is juicy precisely because it has no substance and it does not take much intelligence or effort to have an opinion on it. Got to love the American electorate.

Jen, Boston MA   January 29th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

not only does CNN distract voters with this sort of gossip, CNN also managed to waste Senator Obama's precious time by forcing him to react to this rubbish.
CNN, good job in dumbing down America. your masters will richly reward you.

Jon   January 29th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Wow, its amazing that there are so many comments on this trival matter — HRC in one of her speeches said she avoided Fidel Castro (purposely) so what does that say about a public figure running for the presidency. No one knows what really happen so I suggest that everyone calm down and think about real issues and how we can work together to change these issues. This is not about HRC or about OB – there is a bigger picture and that is the stability of the United States of America – if you continue to act like children the rest of the world will not respect you. No one is perfect – I believe OB said that himself. Its amazing how people can judge you.

So Americans grow up and work together to make your country stronger. Take a stand for CHANGE. You've have been blessed with a great opportunity to overcome so many obstacles so please use it wisely.

shelly   January 29th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Me being a democrat makes me think hard on what america thinks is more important. If Hillary was so bad why is she where shes at. Yeah Obama got three Kennedys and Hillary got two Kennedys. So what Ted is a joke that kisses John Kerrys sorry butt. Ted has no direction and has to listen to John, and John has no direction without listening to his wealthy wife.

Joyce S   January 29th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

it would be nice if after the big endorsement yeserday..Kennedy and Clinton
could have show civility towards each other..that was the issue..not
what Obama was doing…Kennedy endorsed the man..I think
Senator Clinton wanted to let him know all's fair in politics.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

HRC grow up and return all the millions you got from NORMAN HSU, and explain your relationship with him, im still fuzzy on that!

Doris   January 29th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

God you ugly women – stop saying smack about Clinton apperance. I'd like to see your saggy old faces the ones that say this crap. Women that write things about her apperance are the ones that probably have nothing to look forward to in life.

RT   January 29th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

People, get lives… people are dying over seas… the economy is spiraling out of control… our kids and failing in school and you are arguing over whether Obama should have shaken Hillary's hand or whether he was nice to her? Please! Maybe this is why the rest of the world think we are a bunch of morons!

Jim, American in Paris   January 29th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Quite frankly Hillary doesn't need Obama anyway just the way America can do without him!

constant   January 29th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

These two candidates are not running for MIddle School Student Council for gods sake!
Can we get REAL for a moment, a minute, an hour, gee possibly for a day??? Is this the biggest news to come out of this whole evening?
He's immature…
she's an attention getter….
I hate her…
I hate him!!
Good god people….grow up! It is so frustrating that with all the significant issues REAL AMERICANS are dealing with…this gets the head lines??
This kind of coverage is like reading about "britney Spears" newest outing to a gas station, what she was wearing, and/or if she had underwear on??????
I DON'T CARE!!!
Does anyone know where we can get "grown up" articles, written by an unbiased reporter who investigates a REAL ISSUE, with a slight hint of intelligence about….ohhh….let's say "other" things that happened yesterday?? OUR CRUMBLING ECONOMY, MORE LOST JOBS, 5 MORE U.S. SOLDIERS KILLED….YESTERDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hey, maybe even report "What" our President said last night….well that wouldn't be intelligent…but it would be far better than feeling like I'm running down the hall at Middle School….trying to find a way out!!!!!!
Unbelievable!

JustUsGirlsDownInTexas   January 29th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Now Hillary, dear this just isn't your best look.

I mean when you bug your eyes out like that and put that big ole fake looking smile on your face…well dear, don't want to hurt your feelings, but it just doesn't look genuine. No…no…I would say it just looks down right plastic….well even down right scarey.

Yep, that look would just make a small child run crying, you know what I mean? Now let's work on that game face whadda ya say?

Obama buddy   January 29th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Obama – grow up – admit you took money from the slum lord.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

hey speaking of snubs, didnt HRC smob us all when after President Bush speech, she left without talking to CNN, without reason, or notice? How rude, left us hanging, yet the one senator obama, who most naive people on this site are bashing, took the time to give us his thoughts on the speech, Actions do speak louder, obama 08! for what matters!

Anonymous   January 29th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

i am a staunch Obama supporter. its obvious that Obama was totally uncomfortable in that situation where his endorser was reaching out to his rival.

he just suffered from the fact that his whole body reacted with dislike for Clinton. afterall she hasnt been honest about his record and belittled his win in SC. maybe people like clinton can smile and act happy in the midst of people who have pulled her name through the mud.

uniting the country has nothing to do with shaking hands with hillary. infact it has all to do with rejecting people like hillary from the public sphere.

Tracy   January 29th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

O my goodness, the Republicans are scared, they have flood all THREADS/BLOGS concerning Obama.

Beware all Obama supporters, they are NOT Hillary supporters, they are republicans.

excel bueno   January 29th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

What's up Borack buddy? Can't stand her guts?

Leedy   January 29th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

You guys are really reading too much into things!!! Of course there is tension from both sides. It is just who can handle it. If you can't handle it now then wait until you become President. But, the fact that Obama is of mix race I think he should show more that he is for every American because if a white American thinks that you are mainly for African Americans, whether you are qualified or not they will not vote for you. They will come out to the polls trailer park and all. That is why Bush won a second term and Kerry lost. Obama need to show he is for everyone, black, white, and hispanic. As an African American myself I am looking for the candidate that will atleast try to mend the division that Americans have fell into through the Bush years. It's almost like America went back to the sixties. Thinking racial segregation is the answer. Well guess what America is like a Gumbo. You have a variety of flavors( chicken, seafood, beef ect….) in it. That is what make it a unique dish. Also it is time for Hillary to tell Bill to shut up. He is hurting her more and more. It's almost as if he doesn't want her to win, atleast not the African American votes anymore. Maybe he is just tired.

Mark   January 29th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Rohrschach…that is all it is. As you read the comments, I learn more about the commentors than what actually occurred. My interpretation: The Clinton's tried to derail Obama's campaign last week. Politics is about raw power that confounds the artificial demeanor that we expect from politicians. Would you really expect any politician who has been savaged by another' s surrogates to not want to automatically reach out to a hand they may be extended in a clearly staged, artificial way?

Voters would be better served if CNN used it's journalistic expertise to delve further into the issues that differentiate the candidates. As one commentor said….this picture is worthy of People magazine.

LOL   January 29th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

LOL…. You got to be kidding me- read on….

"January 28, 2008 11:51 pm ET

This is so priceless!!!!!!! It is already all over the internet. President Pookie Pouty Face. He looks so Presidential when he throws a tantrum! '

Does this poster know you must be over twelve to blog?
Grow up.

Phyl   January 29th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

It's a two way street. Why didn't Hilary acknowledge him?? She was clearly looking his way. Don't just blame Obama for not acknowledging her when she could have done the same thing.

Cher   January 29th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Barack Obama is not nice.

Landon   January 29th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

You people are completely nuts. If you can't see that this is a prime example of the media making something out of nothing, then you need to get your head examined. Instead of leaving comments on here, maybe you'd be happier following the candidates around and waiting for one of them to sneeze as they come out of the bathroom. That has to mean something, right?

Concerned Citizen   January 29th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Are you really serious? With all the events happening in and around the the world today the only thing CNN can come up with is this nonsense about whether or not Obama snubbed Clinton. This is ridiculous! With all the slurs and hurtful things she and her husband has thrown at him in recent days, so what if he doesn't acknowledge her at the moment CNN thinks he should. There has to be something else to talk about. So much for "CNN, the most trusted name in news".

jake   January 29th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

graham take a pill for the nonsense you are feeding here. Bottom line is Obama talks and walks differently. Sooner you understand that better it is.

__________________________
Graham January 29, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Battle tested?

Ok, Anti-Obama people want to know why he keeps calling for change and what change really means. It's exactly the mentality that candidates for President have to be battle tested in order to win. Obama is stating that you do not have to attack other candidates using distortions and you do not have to tear the other party down in order to win an election. It's a fundamental change in the way we see politics and that is what is inspiring countless people around the nation. I hope I'm right in the notion that young people will carry this nomination and when it happens and Barack Obama becomes our president, I hope that we all learn from our dated views and mistakes…

anonymous   January 29th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

John Edwards is looking better all the time to me. Just wish that folks would give him a chance.

Friendly   January 29th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Hillary Clinton's supporters and everyone who enjoys making a big deal out of nothing – chill down and be patient – see CNN democratic debate in CA on Jan 31 – Barack Obama will shake her hand as he always does at the debates – don't worry about it – go to her blog (http://www.hillaryclinton.com/blog/) for a boost of some cheerful and happy thoughts :) .

People who've made their decision to vote for Hillary based on this picture – I'm sure she'll be happy to have a support from serious and thoughtful people like you ;) .

Paulo   January 29th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

The Obama supporters are saying that this is not news and bashing CNN for reporting what they saw. I thnk that if it had been Hillary who snubbed Obama, he and all of the media would would have been out to get Hillary. It's about time that the media gives Obama the same coverage.

Too bad for Obama, the coverage uncovered the truth about Obama. This is very important news because Obama is running on this very important premisse, which is to to unite people. It is CNN's responsibility to report what they saw, which is that Obama is not practicing what he preaches. We deserve to know the truth and to know that the person who we are electing as our president will be able to work with all, including those he does not like. Our country cannot afford another Bush.

Hillary has the experience , the knowledge, the diplomacy , the strength and the confidence to work with all including those who may not like her. We have lots of foreigh enemies and we a strong president who will extend a hand and start a conversation, despite how unconfortable the situation may be.

Hillary is my only choice.

Boston, MA

BobW Rochester, NY   January 29th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Hillary fans, "Me thinks thou doth protest too much" to quote Will Shakesphere. Hillary was approach Ted Kennedy not Obama and given Kennedy's endorsement, most likely Obama didn't want to get caught up in a potentially heated situation. I don't blame him.

BRR   January 29th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Is this woman reporting a story or writing an editorial? I thought it was supposed to be the former but it looks more like the latter and therefore should be clearly labeled as such.

Terry   January 29th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Anybody every consider that most of you may be wrong? And that maybe there was no ill intentions from either Clinton or Obama? I know some of you will have us believe that you have a crystal ball that told you what both Clinton and Obama's true intentions were.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

hey MICHAEL: Grow up! he turned over to speak to a senator and he had exchanged a friendly wave with HRC prior, haha hrc supporters desperate to tear obama down! He is the right man, for the right job, now!

Tracy, Los Angeles, CA   January 29th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Barack is a child and this is childish behavior.

LOL   January 29th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

–CNN's Jessica Yellin

Shame on you. This must have been your weekly "trash" quota-

jane   January 29th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

I am really starting to lose respect for Obama, too. He willbe another bush and Ted.Kennedy will be another Cheney.

Fred, Toledo, Ohio   January 29th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Well, now we know how the American people are being hoodwinked by Obama in the so called politics of hope. If can't talk to your fellow Demcrat how then do yiu claim you will talk to Republicans. The cnn reporter made it clear that Obama turned away as soon he saw Hillary.

Lynn   January 29th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Hillary doesn't have grace. She's a devious manipulator and liar.

Michael   January 29th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

AND A COLLECTIVE HUSH FELL OVER THE NATION AS HIS TRUE CHARACTER WAS REVEALED.

Is this is the Unity he plans?

But he didn't mean to snub her. And the different spin stories coming from his camp prove it.

First, he was giving Kennedy and Clinton a moment to themselves. Then, it was just an accidental gaze away at that exact moment. Then, he was answering a question from McCaskill.

I'm sure he didn't mean to snub her, after all "she's likeable enough."

Deep Gupta   January 29th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Media – please give us a break. Print something worthwhile.

Vic   January 29th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Boy what a shame. This is not new to most of us. CNN has been building up OBAMA and the next President and they have gone out of their way to start tension between the two candidates and effectively. Now they have to go back and do some reflection on their actions. Do they really want to support a childish individual like OBAMA?

I think the media have had to much say so in this presidential race. We have had every commentator try to outdo each other with the so called "Debates" These guys wouldn't know what a debate is if it bit them in the face. They used these Debates to build their images and worth. I think they looked stupid in many cases. I we need to stop listening to their news conferences (they call them DEBATES) and allow the real people at Universities handle that.

Thank you Hillary for being our Candidate.

Don   January 29th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Funny how some of you still try to make everything Hillary Clinton's fault. I know what really happend. Bill Clinton was holding Obama's arm down, so the Clintons could attack with this story.lol

For all of you writing " who cares", guess thats how Clinton supporters felt the last month as media derailed her campaign and Obama supporters acted like any tidbit of negative news, real or not, was foder for debate.

Obama made a mistake, one of many. The real story here is that people finally are hearing about it.

Get some news   January 29th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

I am tried of this election!!! Not of the canidates but the 24-hour news channels who run out of things to cover so they start doing stories like this. Get real CNN and all others, the only people who care about a sunb are children on the play ground!!

frank   January 29th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Solid snub in my book. John Edwards the only grown-up?

phyls esparza   January 29th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

A wolf in sheep's clothing…. the Obama Meaning …….Someone who hides malicious intent under the guise of kindliness" = Obama…..

Watch out Obama is another Bush, mark my words, no one thought that Bush would become the president he is……stubborn, new, likeable, stutters, shuffles, smirks and has wierd facial tics and winkles…..watch Obama…..same thing!

A wolf in sheep's clothing!

Edward Nelson, NY   January 29th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Barack Obama did the right thing when he turned his back on Hillary Clinton. What type of person smiles and shakes the hand of the person who took the wind out of their campaign? Historically, a strong presidential candidate has been one that campaigns; for themself! Hillary has Bill doing concession speeches and name calling. She supports what Bill has been saying and has yet to apologized for it. Noticeably, I found it interesting indeed that she would be wearing a demon red suit on the day that Senator Kennedy and Caroline Kennedy endorsed Obama. Hillary and Bill Clinton are out to divide, not unite.

ABC = Anybody But Clinton   January 29th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

ALICE IN FLORIDA……………TOO BAD YOUR VOTE FOR BILLARY WON'T COUNT!!!!! YOU NEED TO PUT DOWN YOUR Ho-Ho's, Stop watching Dr. Phil and MOVE ON!!!!

J. McKinney SW MO   January 29th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Obviously, going by the over 1500 posts here, it is thought by 90% that Obama was pouty and childish, and Hillary was the "adult" here, and willing to act the right way. That sends Obama's message of unity and reaching across the isle, etc, down the creek, doesn't it?
the 10% here who are saying this isn't news, or you can't think why Obama should be civil to Hillary since they are disagreeing in the debates, etc. Think about this. If Obama isn't capable of acting civil to Clinton, because he thinks she isn't being "nice" to him in the debates, then how is he going to act to world leaders that we need to deal with? Is he going to pout and turn his back on Putin, and other world leaders that we need to come to agreement with? This is a lot more important than the Dem. debate. And it is way more important than the debate with the Republicans, and whether they will fry Obama alive, which they will. Even more difficult will be dealing with world leaders. Be afraid, Obama supporters. Be very afraid. Because your oratory hero is a big cry baby,–way too immature to lead this country. I hope enough people realize this, because WE NEED HILLARY to lead this country like a strong leader.

Robert Bell   January 29th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

ONE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED COMMENTS.

And we wonder what is wrong with this country.

People are more concerned with whether Obama shook Hillary's hand or not.

Let me ask you this:

If someone insinuated you were a Muslim Terrorist, said you admired Reagan (when you said no such thing) and did a million other dirty, underhanded things, would you shake their hand?

Heck no.

Obama looked away to save Hillary from an awkward moment. She went across the aisle to HIS SEAT and then talked to someone else like he wasnt' there.

Sounds like another one of her staged events – all sound and fury, signifying nothing.

She will do ANYTHING to win.

Clam Digga   January 29th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Lou Dobbs influenced me to register from democratic to independent…… Hillary and Obama have influenced me to probably vote Republican.

Deborah   January 29th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Senator Obama may have felt uncomfortable, but I think a great statesperson should be able to handle discomfort with grace and dignity. I see more grace and dignity while under fire from Senator Clinton (who had even more reason to feel uncomfortable). I just hope that if Obama wins the nomination for our party, that he can accomplish 10 years of personal growth in three months. That is the only way he can win the election. If Obama complains about Senator Clinton “twisting his words”, what is going to happen when Fox News, Limbaugh and all the rest of the radical-right send their big guns after him? As I saw the So Carolina debate, it was the chance for Senator Obama to see what the real race was going to be like and in my opinion, he folded under the pressure. Obama claims he will end diviseness in politics… I remember the last campaign promise by Bush “I’m a uniter, not a divider…” I certainly hope Hillary wins the nomination, because we may not survive another republican presidency.

Deborah

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

hillary supporters stop hating the better candidate, you know what i mean!stop smarting and hating just because ted kennedy did not endorse your candidate!

Greg   January 29th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Over and over we see Sen. Obama unable to handle difficult confrontations. We have seen it in the debates, when given tough questions, and when faced with a strong challenge. Hillary has gone through a gauntlet of challenges ever since whe hit the public stage. Think about it. Sen. Obama keeps his impressive speaking style and rhetoric pouring forth, but he absolutely proves that he is not ready to lead a deeply divided, dangerous, and contentious world. Hillary has proven she can. Besides, Sen. Obama is constantly calling for change, tell us, what changes has he made since being in the Senate. He misses more votes than most, has not introduced any vital legislation, and has generally spent his short tenure campaigning. Hillary is dignified once again and proves herself to be a true disciplined Statesperson.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

On the Senate Floor all last year Hillary Avoided Obama, i didnt see the out cry then, she treated him, like he was nothing, and she carried herself like the frontrunner, almost dismissing him as the competition!

Definitely Hillary   January 29th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Thank you so much Jessica Yellin for capturing the "moment of truth". It's truly PRICELESS.

I enjoy this thread because it shows how strong Hillary Supporters are. What a CHANGE after being bombarded by Obama's news.

Definitely Hillary!

SyF the Giver, Chicago, IL   January 29th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

I love the 1827 comments about this, really makes you think.

Friendly   January 29th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Hillary Clinton's supporters and everyone who enjoys making a big deal out of nothing – chill down and be patient – see CNN democratic debate in CA on Jan 31 – Barack Obama will shake her hand as he always does at the debates – don't worry about it – go to her blog (http://www.hillaryclinton.com/blog/) for a boost of some cheerful and happy thoughts :) .

People who've made their decision to vote for Hillary based on this picture – I'm sure she'll be happy to have a support from serious and thoughtful people like you ;) .

Rev. E. Powell M.D.   January 29th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

When MLK first took the national stage, there were those that said he had to deal
with all type of people. What did he do, ingored!!!. Went about his duty. Just stop and think that if he responded to the call of the Black Panthers, J. Edgar or LBJor the so call democratic party line. Just think were this country would be. Billary is a part of the old, and from what I have read, experience and seen so far is the same
old lines that got us into this mess in the first place.
What I find most interesting is that everybody got a comment on Obama's change (hope). The only comment I will offer the world – "Whether you believe in God or believe only in yourself, I know, and I know that God wants me to know,
without hope, there can be no Faith and no Love".
For all of those that don't understand what I am trying to say, take "HOPE" out
of your equation of life and then you are at the level of Mr. Obama's thinking.
I would give those that stop and read these a little more,but, I realy don't think
that it will be necessary once one stops and think about it.

carol   January 29th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

It proves that Hillary will not take negative negotiations with world leaders personally, and she will do what it takes to fix the problems in America.

You go Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton!

We love you. '08 and '12

dee   January 29th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

NOW

NOW

NOW is being ati-Male, although if he is the better choice

This is silly

You mean Bill the race issue watch-dog is not correcting the NOW agenda of a women or no one else.

NOW should have pick a candidate that would not use the race card to get nominated and loose in NOV.

Special Interest – American Interest

Obama 08

or another 4 years of

GOP 08

Graham   January 29th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Battle tested?

Ok, Anti-Obama people want to know why he keeps calling for change and what change really means. It's exactly the mentality that candidates for President have to be battle tested in order to win. Obama is stating that you do not have to attack other candidates using distortions and you do not have to tear the other party down in order to win an election. It's a fundamental change in the way we see politics and that is what is inspiring countless people around the nation. I hope I'm right in the notion that young people will carry this nomination and when it happens and Barack Obama becomes our president, I hope that we all learn from our dated views and mistakes…

Jeffery, New Orleans   January 29th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

That's it you big, bad, mean foriegn leader. I'm not talking to you anymore. And oh, Congress, if I don't get my way, you can forget your Christmas cards. That'll show you.

Darell   January 29th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

When did CNN become TMZ? This is News? It just tells you how words and actions from both campaigns have been misconstrued over the past weeks. I hold you guys to higher standards; You are CNN for pete's sake.

Chris   January 29th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

That's it! I'm not voting for Hillary or Obama.

I am voting for McCain.

Battle tested. Above politics. Ready to lead.

MichaelM   January 29th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Haha this article is one of the most amusing articles I've ever read! It's like CNN turning into The Onion. Oh, by the way, they're news partners. Check out The Onion's website, and you'll realize why these two media outlets are basically the same, like Abercrombie and Hollister.

Chris PHX   January 29th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

MONARCHY – an autocracy governed by a monarch who usually inherits the authority…. DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR???? Bush-Clinton-Bush-CLINTON???? Have we become a country of entitlment????

Same goes for socialized healthcare, wellfare, social security, and all the other social programs that most Americans think they are ENTITLED to! We as americans need to earn what we get! That traditional way of american thinking has seemed to disappear, within our community and within the way we vote…

Please look at the big picture before voting. Dont vote because he is half black, dont vote because she is a woman, dont vote because he is a white man, vote on who will push this country in the right direction!!! Think outside the box, not inside…

AtlantaVoter   January 29th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

By his on admission he turned away….he thought it might be "awkward".

News flash Crybama: There will be lots of awkward moments for a President and we expect the grace and composure shown by Hillary Clinton. And we don't expect it to be reserved for those who either agree with you or suck up to you. You need to grow up. This episode is not about the Presidency, the campaigns or even polictics. It's about maturity and you failed….miserably.

Hillary has GUP — Grace Under Pressure. You go, Hillary! Show him how it's done!

Hillary Clinton 2008

Mike in Brooklyn   January 29th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

So much for Obama reaching across the aisle.

This time, it was Clinton who reached across the aisle, and all Obama could do was turn around and stare into space. ("Clinton took a seat three chairs and an aisle away from Obama. While members of Congress were still greeting one another, Clinton crossed the aisle to speak with Democratic Rep. Jim Langvin of Rhode Island, a Clinton supporter")

Commentator   January 29th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Not sure I'd shake hands with either of them if I had been there.

Emma   January 29th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

I think that if he did snub her then what will he do if he comes across someone as president that he doesn't like, not speak to them either. Doesn't that remind you of someone else in Washington.

People need to look at what is important here and that is getting America back to the country that it used to be. I am afraid that although he seems good at speeches Obama has nothing more to give America than empty words.

I feel at this moment in time America and the world need to have someone with experience to make lasting change. Words are ok if you can back them up, but we need experience to create change and Obama hasn't got that at the moment.

Hillary is the best candidate to change America and to give back respect.

Tim, Seattle   January 29th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Dont listen to the desparate diatribes of the Hillary-elite. This is all they can come up with. They dont have an answer for Obama. They are losing, and they are scared. Insecurity, plain and simple.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

HRC and her supporters will do anything to tramp on the candidate of the people obama, who will work on a bi-partisan ;level to get things done for our land, they are angry, disappointed, immature and irresponsible, we know obama is a good and decent man and would never snub anybody deliberately, he waved at her prior to her coming over to shake kennedy, and he was being asked a question when he turned HRC supporters stop trying to spin we the people know better!

Concerned American   January 29th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Will everyone stop all this rubbish and lets talk issues. Whatever he meant he said he didn't snub her. Hillary has also not come out to say she felt snubbed. Get over it guys and stop whining.
To CNN, give us better news stories instead of making a storm out of a tea cup. Sometimes i wonder if the role of the media is to divide us.

get truth guy   January 29th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Obama is a sore winner who could not even reach out his winner hand to a loser. what a joke! this nation can not afford this kinda politician.

Rob Webb   January 29th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

You people are amazing. Reading some these petty statements makes my head hurt.

This kind of high school nonsense having the potential to changes votes is crazy. What does this have to do with the recession? The war? The foreclosure crisis? Education?

So, you mean to tell me that a fake handshake/smile (Hillary) or someone not wishing to fake it (Barack) can sway your vote??!!! You cannot be serious. This nation is in trouble people. We have no time for this type of foolishness.

I don't care about social interactions between candiates and neither should you. Let's stay on the issues. Our futures depend on it.

Please wake up. This type of nonsense got us 8 years of the village idiot.

Geeez!

Dem08   January 29th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

So this is silly and a non-issue. Jessica Yellen claims its not a story. Funny, she didnt think that last week when she mislead the country with the "Bill Lashes Out" story, that was untrue.

FACT. Obama is not perfect. If this would have been Hillary doing this, you guys would be all over her. Talk about a double standard.

He needs to get off the pedistal. If this is his kind on new politics, he can keep it. Hillary Clinton has always been gracious to Obama. There fight is over policy and experiance, he has made it personel. Sad, I think Kennedy has went to his head.

Michelle   January 29th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Obama that was totally uncalled for.

Shawn Smith, Kansas City, MO   January 29th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

If he his pouting over the Clinton's, how is this man going to stand the heat of the republicans? They are going to be throwing much more at him than President Clinton. Like his past Drug usage, his first middle and last name, his lack of experience… ect. I mean come on! Hillary has been getting socked left and right for the last sixteen years and she is still a leading figure for the Democratic party.

Let’s get serious; Hillary is the only electible candidate for the Democratic Party.

Shane, NY   January 29th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

First of all she attacked him with false claims. I wouldn't be civil with her. Her and her husband tried to bait Obama with into a debate about race. I have a lot of respect for Clintons but they have used some questionable tactics, as stated by some high ranking Democrats.

agron   January 29th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

CNN i am so sorry for your crybabe OBAMA…change-hop–unite…

Wake up America…

Great job Hillary …

danielo   January 29th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Too bad if Hillary felt jilted, spurned or unrecognized! She does this all the time to people she does not respect. A taste of her own medicine.

I highly doubt Obama turned his back intentionally to hurt her.

Nik, Houston, TX   January 29th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

I can't believe I'm reading negative news on Obama, he's touch-free and perfect, according to CNN. That being said, this reaction by Obama, combined with the "You're likable enough, Hillary" comment show that he's too immature to take on challenges and to face adversaries… last time I checked, we need those qualities because the president is always presented with issues he doesn't want to deal with, but has to, and do it gracefully. Obama can't even be courteous with a coleague, what would he do if he's president? Turn his back to problems because they're "awkward"?

Hillary shows true statesmanship, she's a true leader, I don't care what people say or try to spin it. Even watching the SOTU address, she already looked like a president, making truces with those who oppose her while maintaining strength, dignity, and candor.

Robert in Texas   January 29th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

I’m an educator, and I see this kind of behavior all the time… in 2nd Grade!! Is this really the kind of “change” we need? Grow up, Obama!

And how about this "unbiased" media reporting? Did Obama's unprofessional, immature, petty behavior have to be something so blatant to get any attention? I'm still waiting to see Bill "truly" lash out at a reporter. I'm still waiting to see Hillary not demonized by an unbiased media.

Where's the equity, folks?

Sometimes, I wonder if the media isn't actually part of the Obama camp with all the coverage and support they're giving him.

Definitely Hillary   January 29th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Yay! What a happy day to read the good news about Hillary!
It proves my gut feel that Hillary is indeed MORE LIKABLE than Obama.

Michelle - PA   January 29th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

We need to look at what is important here…We need a candiate who is ready and able to lead this country. While I am disappointed in what CNN has focused on, it does say something to Obamas person. Whether he did it because he was trying to give her and Kennedy space or he did it because he wanted to avoid an uneasy moment the point is, as President you will face situations such as this and I would rather have someone who can face them head on rather than turn their back.
I will admit to being a Hillary supporter. I like her stance on issues that are important to our country and she has plans. She just doesn't say I am going to change things she has actual plans and experience to back it up.
I really have tried to get on the Obama bandwagon, but so far I haven't heard a lot from him about what his plans are, other than he is going to bring change. He reminds me of George Bush. I don't want another 4 years of the same crap.
We need someone who can dig us out of this mess that George Bush has created.
Someone mentioned that if Hillary lost and Obama won that everyone who would have voted for Hillary would still vote for Obama, but not the other way around. Well you are wrong. If Obama gets the nomination I will be voting (hopefully) for McCain. I want soemone with know how and expereince. We can't afford for Obahma to learn on the job. I wish he could show me more than pretty talk.

Daris   January 29th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

This just goes further to show what American politics has descended to.

Who CARES whether they shook hands or not? Someone gets a photograph that taken out of context can mean something controversial so all of a sudden this is news???

The news creates the news – it doesn't REPORT the news. Not anymore.

Honest Supporter   January 29th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter who voted for him in Iowa. I request my fellow Obama suppporters not to be hypocrites and try to deny something which is a fact. We should be honest to our conscience and accept a mistake. Any truthful, honest individual knows that it was a snub.

By trying to give 2 excuses like Axelrod did first and then a different one by McCaskill makes it difficult for me to support my heart, my conscience.

So I request all honest Obama supporters to accept it as a mistake and listen to our conscience.

Dave   January 29th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

As of 12:56 pm Mountain time 1,534 comments on possibly the biggest non-story in the history of CNN's ticker. Seriously people, grow up.

This is evidence that there are at least 1,535 (counting myself) with way to much time on their hands.

OBAMA4EVER   January 29th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

waittttttttttttt hillary rains a smear campaign against obama

and you people have the audacity to call him OUT FOR THIS………

I HOPE ALL OF U ARE TOO YOUNG TO VOTE…THEN AGAIN MOST OF HILLARY'S SUPPORT COMES FROM THE 65+ YEAR OLDS…….SIGH

Geri Sacramento   January 29th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

To Up North: You try to diminsh Maxine Waters' endorsement of Hillary by saying Waters was named in 2005[4] and 2006[5] as one of the "most corrupt" members of congress!" Actually, she is a highly respected Congresswoman, as anyone who knows her will testify. This morning, even CNN said she is a highly regarded member of Congress. I dare you to come back on here and tell us exactly WHO named her "most corrupt". And don't think if you name some off-the-wall, hate rag, we'll buy it.

Jane   January 29th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

This photo speaks volumes about Barack's immaturity. He seems to be frightened of Hillary. How would he do as president if someone disagrees with him?

Larry, CA   January 29th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Vince,
I couldn't agree more. Most of the people here that are giving that excuse are hiding the real truth in their heart and they think they are fooling somebody. If they change based on an obviouse smear campange picture I personally wouldn't want their vote for me anyway because it's fake and irresponsible.

Youth Voter   January 29th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Obama was snubbing Hillary in the second pic too. See the gap on the right of Kennedy. That's where he was standing and he moved back to snub Hillary.

Moreover he is looking past McCaskill's shoulders so McCaskill and Obama told us a lie.

Sighs I thought Obama was not a liar because he gave a different excuse from what Axelrod said.

Why did Axelrod and Obama give 2 different excuses for the snub?

Steve H   January 29th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Maybe Barack Obama was engaged in a quiet moment of contemplation, with his surrounding supporters shaking the hand of his adversary might make the highly-touted black freshman just want to disappear for awhile.

Vince, Arizona   January 29th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

can you say… "FAKE OUTRAGE"?

BO -- Not Ready!   January 29th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

–I need to know that the President of the United States can handle "awkward" moments.
–I need to know that the Commander in Chief of the United States Military can handle "awkward" moments.
–There will be plenty of "awkward" moments to come for the President of the United States.
–Barack Obama is NOT ready to be President of the United States. He will never keep world leaders at the table with his speech of "hope".

Sharon   January 29th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

IS this kindergarten or what?

After reading about a snub, and read all the media reports about it, I I thought about what probably happened.

My perception: Senator Obama, as usual, was gracious to Senato Clinton by allowing her time and some privacy with an old friend, Senator Ted Kennedy. It was their first time together since he (Kennedy) endorsed Barak, and Barak gave them a few moments to connect without interfering. It seemed as thought a friend saw the awkwardness of Barak standing alone and tapped him on the shoulder to get his attention in this awkward momment.

There was no enemy here. Neither Clinton nor Barak.

So who's the grownup in this situation? I would say it was a draw. Clinton for speaking to Senator Kennedy after losing his support, AND Barak for allowing them a few moments of provacy to reconnect.

Personaly, I think this was much ado about nothing! The media tries to make a mountain out of NOTHING, as usual! Shame on you all!

MJG, Castle Rock, CO   January 29th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Disclaimer: I am a Republican!!

This whole Clinton News Network article is quite ridicolous.

Who knows whether they talked to each other before they entered the room?

Who knows whether they greeted and smiled to each other before CNN turned the cameras on them?

CNN, do you expect both Obama and Clinton to sit next to each other in the room?
You kidding me.

This article is quite bogus and out of touch.

The picture above was surely taken out of the situation and therefore not qualified to augment any of the accusations in the article.

The editor should think before he posts such articles because it conveys a biased message!!!

Isabella   January 29th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I am a Hillary supporter and I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE LATEST PICTURE! And neither should the Obama supporter's care about what Bill Clinton does! Duh!

Honest Supporter   January 29th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter who voted for him in Iowa. I request my fellow Obama suppporters not to be hypocrites and try to deny something which is a fact. We should be honest to our conscience and accept a mistake. Any truthful, honest individual knows that it was a snub.

By trying to give 2 excuses like Axelrod did first and then a different one by McCaskill makes it difficult for me to support my heart, my conscience.

So I request all honest Obama supporters to accept it as a mistake and look into our conscience.

CB in Texas   January 29th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

I love to see something negative about Obama and then see all the "claims" of how it was misunderstood by those that believe his cart of horsepoop. This man has no qualifications to be president. This man is BY far NOT a saint. He is an excellent inspirational orator, but that's as far as it goes.

NObama 08

Steve Jay   January 29th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Its laughable how Obama supporters are brushing this off yet have pulled Hillary (and Bill) up for every little thing. This isas newsworthy as all those 'attacks' the Clintons made against Obama.

Im sorry but Obama supporters are such hypocrites.

Jeffrey J. Kennedy   January 29th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

" This was a chance to show civility. " However, Senator Kennedy was gracious enough to show Hillary that there is no hard feelings based on his earlier endorsement of Senator Obama. " The Kennedy's have been long friends with the Clinton's and the family is split as to which candidate they will support. Hence,
some will support Obama, some will vote for Hillary. Senator Kennedy just wanted to keep the civility in the hallowed chamber last night before the President's address to the nation. Don't read into more than it was. However, was a political trick on Bill and Hillary's part to show Obama is the
immature, bad guy! that they have been trying to portray with their dirty politics in which Senator Kennedy spoke about yesterday at American University? Think about it? was it the most opportunistic photo op for Hillary? or was it just a gracious Obama acknowledging his other colleague who at that precise moment leaned forward to speak to him.

Respectfully,

Jeffrey J. Kennedy
New Jersey

PSK   January 29th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Duh – hello? He was talking to Senator Clair McGaskill standing just out of frame.

Vicki   January 29th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Same ole Obama, he cannot take responsibility for his actions–he just rationalizes them away…Hummm sounds like a man without a lot of integrity, just like his voting present on so many bills. Hillary was right. Actually in a way I feel sorry for him–hes intelligent enough to know that the real reason Ted Kennedy backed him is to use him like a pawn for his own political aspirations. Did anyone notice his body language while he was being endorsed by Ted–his arms were closed and his facial expressions were that of sheer intimidation. Just wait, he has no idea how much a Kennedy endorsement can hurt him, equally as much as an Oprah endorsement. He also walks like a street person, with that dippy walk, he definately has some growing to do. Poor guy–Oprah already robbed him of ever knowing weather he could have succeeded in this race alone–and now Kennedy…..He did turn away from Hillary because he cannot face her for inside he knows what he has done behind the scenes–and hes still not sure what this Kennedy deal means–and it is a deal. Actually Hillary and Ted Kennedy forgot more than Obama knows. The truth always shows itself. Its disgusting how the media portrayed the Clintons as racial (Obama's behind it all) they are in no way racially motivated, listen to Kendrick Meek–he was there………..

John L   January 29th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

There simply is no story here, so everyone is filling in details that suit themselves.

Carrie   January 29th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Hillary is always the victim. Poor Hillary! If people are not going to vote for Obama because of this story, you shouldn't be voting! Its so stupid. I am still waiting to hear about Hillarys 35 years of experience.

Linda Smith   January 29th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I have intentionally watched the endings of the debates and Obama is the FIRST one to start shaking hands with everyone, even after Hillary has spewed out the lies and distortions and elevated her "35 years" of experience. I don't know what happened right before that, but in view of what I have seen all these months, Obama has many more points in the manners game than Hillary has. Hopefully, it will be addressed in the debate or in a news release.

adriane   January 29th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

This is what happened: She approached Ted Kennedy directly, ignoring Obama so he ignored her also. Is that a big deal?
Go and try to think about ideas on how to solve the problems of this country instead of speculating and gossiping!

The South   January 29th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

You know what happens when those people get a little money.

Washington Democrat   January 29th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

This picture reveals so much! Honestly everyone- the headlines today state that Romney and McCain accuse each other of being liberal- that is the worst label in their minds and the best way to unite their Republican base. So why oh why does anyone believe that a Republican would ever vote for Obama in the general?!!!
Obama, Clinton, Edwards- they all share the same Democratic/liberal
platform. The day that I heard Bill Bennett and Brit Hume compliment Obama
is the day that I realized that an Obama ticket is the Republican's best
chance for the White House. Everyone really needs to step away from the
rhetoric and THINK.

James B.   January 29th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Hillary and Bill Clinton supporters sound really frantic. If you are so convinced that they are the only viable candidate, than what are you worried about? Why not just educate others on why you think they should be president? Why the need to knock somebody else down? If you are supporting the best candidate, tell us why? (and please don't bother repeating what they or the media keeps repeating). Like her 35 years experience! Really, cause 15 of those years all she was was first lady (of Arkansas and the U.S.), By those standards Laura Bush should be ready to be president on Day one. By repeating rumors and untruths about somebody else, you give others plenty to wonder about. And the idea that somebody could take one single situation with somebody else's interpretation and say this one reason proves that this person doesn't have the right to become president makes me wonder if these comments were written by people who actually are making decisions on who to vote for or by 12 year olds trying to stir things up. It is truly scary to think about how little many voters actually know and continue to be manipulated by the press and the polititians.

respect   January 29th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Cheerful HRC supporters – I see you are very angry today – what happened?! Blog on HRC website today is as always cheerful and happy – no angry HRC supporters there. OK, if you are so angry, listen to your leader – HRC – "take a deep breath". Now think about the following – if someone you've worked with for several years would start recklessly trashing you down and show no respect – would you shake their hand and give them a fake smile even just for cameras and TV?! Give me a break – where is your sense of self respect?! I used to be Bill's and HRC supporter for 15 years, but after seeing how low Bill and HRC have fallen to fulfill HRC's life-long dream of becoming the first woman president, I lost all respect for her and Bill.

Larry, CA   January 29th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

For those who mock Obama's ability to Unite. Let me ask you what in the World has Hillary done to Unite us Americans? Going by the polls and the results of the voting. Barrack HAS UNITED us and Hillary has as well (IF YOU A MIDDLE AGED WOMAN) . By the way she can't even gain the African-American woman vote. 80% Obama.

I think it's VERY telling that a "Good Friend " of the Clinton's would support Barrack over a "Good Friend" citing polarizing politics as the reason yet Obama is the one not uniting. Very Interesting Logic on this board Ladies. Oh and it's no coincidence that the author of this article in also a "WOMAN" purposly making Barrack to look bad and the very day after the Hillary camp was dealt a "Big Blow" on top of the "Huge Blow" she took over the weekend. Hillary is done and when Edwards announces he will be Obama's VP who is she going to get as her 3rd leg VP?

By the way Obama he an endorsment from a well resected Republican Colin Powell as well.

Karen   January 29th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Please give me a break. Childish bunch. Making a whole lot of noise about nothing. Guys focus on the issues that affect America.

Obama, you are great and continue on your vision of uniting America.

Tevin, Raleigh NC   January 29th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Whatever people! Leave the manufacturing of drama to Hollywood!

Tickled To Death   January 29th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Now I am really tickled. CNN posted a picture that accurately displayed what was going on at the time of the supposed snub by Obama. HE WAS TALKING TO SOMEONE ELSE PEOPLE!!! All of you idiots that jumped on the bandwagon owe this fellow an apology. Sheesh…stop being so quick to judge and actually research before you let stupid comments roll from your fingers…..

LOL

Georgette Becker, Imperial Beach, CA   January 29th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

People, People, People!!! It's NOT a slow news day yet CNN is "reporting" this gossipy tidbit as "news"!! And way too many of you are buying into the spin. Get a grip and aim your outrage at climate change, the pending recession, getting our boys and girls home from IRAQ. You know, something productive.

Justin   January 29th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Obama is acting like "Angry Black Man" if want to be a leader then he need to act accordingly.

N Vik   January 29th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Ummmm, Why does this smugness remind of our current president?

sebastian   January 29th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I am certain with someone who lacks personality to stand up above difficult situations like Obama in your presidency, is just as bad for international relations as it is having a naive daddys kid like Bush. Remember the way things are heading, you are more and more dependant on the rest of the world.

Marc   January 29th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Whoa, now everybody needs to back up a bit. Did Senator Clinton offer her hand to Senator Obama? Did she say anything to him? Did she even look at him when she shook Senator Kennedy's hand? To lay all the blame on Sen. Obama is not fair and it is not just. Why was it incumbent on him to make the gesture first? If you think he was in the wrong, you have to admit she was wrong to. And for all of you questioning Senator Obama's maturity, I think the SC Primary before/during/and after showed which campaign handled themselves more maturely. Remember this: no one from Obama's campaign has ever, and if they're smart will never, say anything that even remotely implies that Sen. Clinton isn't fit for the Presidential seat because she's a woman. So take it down a notch.

Isabella   January 29th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

WHAT ABOUT THE REVIEW I POSTED TWICE ON OBAMA'S AUTOBIOGRAPHY? CAN'T POST THAT CNN?

Mrs. America   January 29th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Of the posts to any one blog, who has the most? Jessica Yellin (this one), or Wolf Blitzer when he was asking for ideas for the Dem debate, or some other. Just curious.

I don't care much which way Obama looks when Kennedy and Clinton are around. I just wish he would say something of substance instead of just making speeches that don't say anything concrete. All I hear is where we "should" be going but nothing about how he intends to get us there.

Bryant   January 29th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

To "craig m" and "John in Ga" and everyone else with similar posts:

If you are actually basing your decision on whom to vote for President of the United States–the most important decision of our lifetime thus far–on a photograph of Obama and Hillary not shaking hands, then it is YOU…not Obama nor Hillary…who are the true problem with our country.

Your ignorance is exploited daily by the media who manipulate you and your emotions. The media loves to overplay events such as this for the same reason they follow Britney Spears around…sensationalism generates interest and subscribers and more ad revenue.

Please, if you're going to judge others and expect "adult" behavior from the candidates, be an adult yourself and research the actual issues before making a knee-jerk reaction based on the media's manipulation of you.

Nap time... Cookies later.   January 29th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

"I didn't have snubbing relations with that woman"

Parker   January 29th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Wow. Breaking news. Gripping stuff, really intresting.

Robert M. Reidy N.Y.   January 29th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Phony, phony Hillary, at it again !

All calculation and stony heart except when she has tears for her own plight
and fall from democratic grace.

Poor Hillary the victim again.

As Barack Obama enters the room like the next president – she was just trying to latch onto his spotlight – it's really that simple.

Karen, Florida   January 29th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I guess it was only a matter of time before the golden boy began to tarnish. I guess he lives by the "do as I say, not as I do" motto. These days when he opens his mouth all I hear is the sound all adults make in Charlie Brown tv shows. Waah waah waah waah.

Democrat   January 29th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Come on folks – lets stop micro analyzing every move made by these two candidates. It's such a waste of energy and truly not worth the time it takes to comment. Also, Shame on you, CNN.

Tim   January 29th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

OK, so now we'll see how BO handles a gaffe. The campaign comment was totally inadequate! He needs to make nice, whether he wants to or not, Let's see what's next

I love an election year!

Max   January 29th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

If this is the issue that will sway people's support for a candidate one way or the other- god help us all.

How about supporting a candidate because of their stance on the issues: the war, the economy, health care?

Nope. You're voting for Hillary because Obama didn't shake her hand.

Oh, brother.

kay   January 29th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Neither one of them is any good. They are senators, Big egos and implode. They haven't been elected president since Kennedy.
Don't worry. They will kiss and make up and then CNN can gush all over Hill.
This uniting business is a bunch of nonsense.
We should be concentrating on our economy and national saftey. With out that we have nothing. I been around a long time and this touchy feely crap means nothing.
Vote for brains. Vote for Romney. And before you start saying he's trying to buy the election, just remembe he EArned his money, didn't suck off the tax payers all his live and didn't take pay for being gov.or for the Olympics work.
oh, I almost forgot. This is a liberal site. Well, you just keep on squabbling like 5 year olds. Maybe when you grow up you'll take a look at whats important in life.

CHIKOO   January 29th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

DIRTY POLITICS "

tess   January 29th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

if hillary is as immature as obama she would have done the same to ted, but she didn't. obama is such a baby. hillary has the guts to walk across the isle and face the men who support her even though they are amidst the men who just trashed her. even shook their hands. well, that is gutsy! sorry baby obama-for once your silence spoke louder than your words…

Robin   January 29th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Did anyone else notice that smug finger-on-the-nose posture of Obama during Teddy's rant yesterday? What was THAT? My 10-year old nephew is more adult that this guy.

anon   January 29th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I don't think that this one incident should be life changing to the election. Seriously, are people forgetting all the lying and underhanded tactics that Hillary has used? Now all of a sudden people are trying to make her seem like an innocent victim of Obama, and I'm not falling for it. If you can dish it out, you should be able to take it. This incident would be a ignorant and stupid reason to gear your support towards Hillary if it wasn't there before.

Jen   January 29th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I know I would feel awkward if two friends were talking over me and especially if their conversation was not for my ears. I am sure he was attempting to give them some form of privacy.

Dave   January 29th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Quoting veronica lynne:

"He is arrogant, and it's all about HIM. (just like Bush, maybe even worse).
America deserves better"

Indeed!

I get a little queasy when I watch Obama as he is asked a question, he even seems to have that little smirk which Bush exposes under the same situation.

We definitely don't need another Bush-lite for the next 4 to 8 years….

That Canadian Guy   January 29th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

The problem with America is the politics. After watching the 'State Of The Union' address it is very apparent where the lines of discrimination start, between the Republicans and the Democrats. This transcends down to the everyday average american person. Hence why the south hasn't evolved the way it should have years ago.

I am also amazed at how Bush as well as the candidates talk about tax incentives and ways to jump start the economy, meanwhile did it ever don on them, how much of an injection the economy would get if a politician actually had to earn their retirement. In the speech last night, I would guess the attendance to be about 1,500 people (to be safe). With an average salary (while working) of $150,000.00, that total would be $225,000,000.00. A good jump start I would say. Now consider the billions spent on their retirement packages, and that is a good reason why the economy has tanked. Sure educate the people, then give them Option A or Option B for president. Unfortunately you are then forced into the policies of the person that you voted for. The US isn't a country of the people, it is a country for the politicians. The average american works for 35-40 years and can barely afford retirement, let alone pay for their health should something go wrong, while a politician works 4 years and collects taxpayers monies until they die. The mathematics needs to begin on the politicians themselves. A good leader sets an example, and unfortunately many countries have not had a mentality with the people, more of their wallets.

In conclusion, the world went through the Industrial Revolution and reaped the benefits. Now we face the reprecussions of the Technolical & Automation Age combined with that of rollovers of the retirement packages of the politicians. As the number of baby boomer politicians retire, including the average joe, try to be optimistic, but in the end a depression is the reality of either party. Numbers always speak the truth. The truth just can't be spoken or votes will be lost.

CJ, Albany, NY   January 29th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

CNN – Focus on real issues, this isn't FOX you know.

jackie   January 29th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I thought Obama was the one who was going to bring everyone together?
Change we can't count on.

Iraq connections?   January 29th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Apparently, Rezko borrowed 3.5 million dollars from some billionaire in Iraq. Why would a billionaire from Iraq have connections with Rezko? Makes me wonder if there's a connection with Obama "I was against the war from the start". Interesting. A stretch, but one never knows.

Judith Ferren Errol NH   January 29th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Question…. Everyone is coming down on Obama not shaking her hand and jumping up to her … Did she try to shank his hand???? oops… guess the shoe is on the other foot huh?

making too much over nothing….

CALVIN, GREENVILLE SC   January 29th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

IM SORRY BUT ARE THE CLINTON SUPPORTERS READING THE ARTICLE. SHOW ME THE SENTENCE OR SENTENCES THAT SAY HILLARY CAME OVER TO TALK TO OBAMA. SHE REACHED OVER HIM TO TALK TO OTHER PEOPLE. I WAS JUST WONDERING WHEN THE SPINNING WOULD START AFTER THE OBAMA SC WIN. OBVIOUSLY THOSE WHO ARE GETTING ALL WORKED UP ABOUT THIS ARE ALREADY CLINTON SUPPORTER THAT WANT TO FAN BULL **** IN ORDER TO TAKE ATTENTION AWAY FROM OBAMAS MOMENTUM. THIS IS ONLY TO BE EXPECTED. LIKE HILLARY SAID, WE ALL NEED TO TAKE A DEEP BREATH!

Louise   January 29th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

That was so childish of Obama…a little bit of grace was all that was required and he couldn't even muster that up. Is he going to throw all his toys out of the playpen if he gets elected?? I'm sure that would go down well in negotiations with Pakistan, Iraq, Iran etc.

Well done Hillary for being adult, mature and gracious.

joli   January 29th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Alice in Florida …you are hilarious… took the words right out of my mouth lol

Actually, in this picture he just looks like maybe he needs his diaper changed.
- Alice

Janel, St. Paul, MN   January 29th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

This whole discussion is laughable.

According to Senator Obama, he looked away as Senator McCaskill was asking him a question. Senator McCaskill, who confirmed this, said today that "this moment caught on film has been blown into something that it frankly wasn't."

Folks, let's just stick to the issues confronting our country, and stop trying to read something into inconsequential things.

20/20 Vision   January 29th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

The media's understanding of human emotion will eventully decide which way poeple vote. This is just the cat and mouse game that the media plays to keep the American people blind to the fact of what their doing. One week Ms Clinton is the root of all evil the next week Obama's satins son. The media is so back and forth putting spin on everything it's rediculous. This photo was obviously took in the moment ,the camera was problaly on a multi- burst setting taking many pictures at one time catching Sen. Obama in an unfavorable position. I'ts all about controlling the momentum back and forth ,forth and back Obama,Clinton,Cliton,Obama.The longer this plays out the better for the media because without the drama they would'nt have anything to report.

TEXAN for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Lisa, Houston, TX

Very well said. I agree with you. I think the men and women who are willing to bash her and not support is simple–they don't want a woman to lead them and the women are intimidated. The women politicians should stop and think why ran for office and thank the voters who helped put them there.

CJ, Albany, NY   January 29th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

This picture is/was a single moment in time, everyone wants to analyse it and say it's Obama not being civil. What if 2 seconds later he did turn around and shake her hand or say hello to her..you don't know that. Again your trying to analyse a single moment in time…I blame this about 98% on the media…single out a controversial moment and run with it, typical media!

OBAMA '08!

back to the kitchen hillary!!!

Bob   January 29th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Once again Obama does something arguably unbecoming and he claims he was misunderstood or that there was something else behind it. This reminds me of his "Hillary you're likeable enough" comment at the debate. Why isn't what Obama says and does subject to same attacks when Hillary (or Bill) does something?

Californian   January 29th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

I just dont understand how anyone could vote for someone else(Hilary) after hearing obama Speak. Go OBAMA

Rafael   January 29th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Two great individuals have the power to make history and make our nation better. I hope they recognize the enormous amount of good that they can make together come the Democratic National Convention.

theresa   January 29th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Who is being the child now…..that sure says "a lot'"about his charactor!

united for truth   January 29th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Hillary even deserves more than that, after her lies and misleading Americans about Iraq war and numerous of her votes in the senate that is questionable. Good mothers do not support wars and loss of human lives…good mothers takes care of their families. Give me break losers!!!

caesar   January 29th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

People who try to analyze human behavior like this in a snap shot of an instant in time are perpetuating prejudice and are being judgemental in their interpretation of a human behavioral/phenomonological events.
I don't get it, when even anthropologists and sociologists have trouble doing this.
Read Clifford Geertz 1978 or Pierre Bourdieu 1989 if you really and trully would like to understand how difficult it actually is to make interpretations based on observations of human behavior.
Why do people jump to, and are so fickle to change their minds based on a single interpretation made by the Media giants?
Ahh, long live the power of the Media.

Amy in Cincy   January 29th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Glad we're focusing on the issues here, guys. I can't believe the tizzy that Clinton supporters have gotten themselves into over this! Good grief. If this brief moment in a crowded room is what you are basing your vote on, I am ashamed of you. I can't believe I even spent the time reading this blog with all the nonsence written here.

CNN…give me some real news.

Nidal   January 29th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Turning his back to the Clinton machine after they tried so pathetically to cast him as the token black candidate is the least I would have if I were him. This is pathetic reporting and CNN as usual plays the part beautifully. CNN is just like Hillary in a way, both want to be like their popular right wing counterparts (FOX, Bush) and then liberal with the progressives, depending of course what mood the nation is in ……. P-A-T-H-E-T-I-C

Sarge   January 29th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

We all need new face, new start, forget the old faces,We need Barack or John,
Bush 4 years Clintons 8 years Bush 8 years and Clintons again, u.s or world is not ready.

Vince, Arizona   January 29th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Sorry to call you all out on this…. but…. if THIS is what turns you off from Obama, then you weren't going to vote for him anyway.

This fake outrage reminds me of the fake outrage from the Bush/Cheyney camp after Kerry mentioned in an answer that Cheyney's lesbian daughter was a lesbian.

(sigh)….

B. S.   January 29th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

The majority of these comments remind me of the typical hypocrites and sycophants that I encounter everyday at work. They remind of of the double speak, rhetoric spouting politicians themselves. Most decent people would be offended to be slandered by their neighbor or co-worker, much less a presidential candidate utilizing national television and radio. By your comments you show that you value someone who lies, back-stabs and is two-faced more than someone who is honest, straight-forward and doesn't pretend. While we all need to strive to get along, it is refuse like Hillary and a lot of the people here that make it very difficult. So please, feel free to go back to your own little world as those with some character and decency try to mitigate your stupidity.

Larry, CA   January 29th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Are people really basing their vote on a picture that obviously the publisher was trying to smear one canidate????????? WOW!!!! We really are hopeless in this country. Truly Pathetic

Mike   January 29th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Being that Ted Kennedy is such close friends with the Clintons, i really think that is was a very strange moment for B.Obama, and it to me just shows his respect not to try and get in on the moment, or make it uneasy as those two talked. we on the outside need to stop trying to make something out of every little move made by these two, as you will see at the convention, which ever one who gets the nomination the other will fall direct in line and be 150% supportive of the other, as we the Democrats will take the white house in November, by the way i am for Barack Obama!!!!

dprice   January 29th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Seems to me that this is twice now that Obama has shown his lack of maturity and peevishness – first with his expression and verbiage of "Hillary, you are nice enough" and now this. Didn't he learn the first time? That's scary! Seems he is a little a loose ends when he doesn't have a handler around him and a canned answer. He lost my vote the first time but now he has made a real Hillary supporter!

Jose Card, NYC, NY   January 29th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

A good cop must act like one in public.
This just shows Obama doesn't pretend in public.
He is what you see and what you get.
He apoligized for buying a strip of land from Tony Rezko in 2005.
He also admitted to have used illegal drugs in his youth and inhaled it.

You must be honest if you want to be inspiring to others.

Responsible Citizen   January 29th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

I agree with the folowing from another blogger:

"obama deserves to be endorsed by a loser like kennedy who lost the nomination in the past."

In addition, Obama is deceptive and always seems to want a double standard. I will tell the rest later!

SJ   January 29th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

The vast majority of voters backing Obama are young kids anyways….it's fitting that he would act like a child himself…….

tracy   January 29th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Thus far this morning, I have seen this clip at least 18 times. Hmmm, how is Obama's camp going to make this racist? I know, he is grossly misunderstood.

cyndy   January 29th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

this is crazy….
who cares who did or didn't shake someone's hand
the media is the worst thing that has happened to this world

Vince, Arizona   January 29th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

HOPE THIS LITTLE STORY (WITH OVER 1400 COMMENT POSTS) MAKES ALL YOU BILLARY LOVERS FEEL BETTER ABOUT YOURSELVES…

TAKE YOUR PETTY LITTLE POT SHOTS..

WE'LL JUST CONTINUE TO RACK UP ENDORSEMENTS BY LEADING PARTY MEMBERS…

THANKS.

Cameron   January 29th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

IT IS THE ECONOMY STUPID

well this is just average me I am a single mother of 2 with holding 2 jobs
and I endorse Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton

June (California Voter)   January 29th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I think I voted for the right person. Go Hillary'08.
She will be able to lead our country better.
Her husban,Bill just made a simple mistake.

KMD   January 29th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

To Upnorth who states that the endorsement of Clinton by Maxine Waters doesn't matter as she made the list of most corrupt….. You are LAUGHABLE!

Judicial Watch 10 Most Corrupt Politicians 2007.. Senator Barack Obama (D-IL): A "Dishonorable Mention" last year, Senator Obama moves onto the "ten most wanted" list in 2007. In 2006, it was discovered that Obama was involved in a suspicious real estate deal with an indicted political fundraiser, Antoin "Tony" Rezko. In 2007, more reports surfaced of deeper and suspicious business and political connections It was reported that just two months after he joined the Senate, Obama purchased $50,000 worth of stock in speculative companies whose major investors were his biggest campaign contributors. One of the companies was a biotech concern that benefited from legislation Obama pushed just two weeks after the senator purchased $5,000 of the company's shares. Obama was also nabbed conducting campaign business in his Senate office, a violation of federal law.

Ken   January 29th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

This should be on the front page news!

Lei An   January 29th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

She was shaking hands with the person who just endorsed him and he turned away? Wow. How would you unite the country when you didn't seem to want to unite your own party?

united for truth   January 29th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Hillary even deserves more than that, after her lies and misleading Americans about Iraq war and numerous of her votes in the senate that are questionable. Good mothers do not support wars and loss of human lives…good mothers take care of their families . Give me a break losers!!!

Mimi   January 29th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Looking at who is bragging about being a uniter!
Wake up people before it's too late! Obama is a real liar!
Hillary helped a lot his campaign for the senate seat, and now the guy totally turned his back on her!

Hillary 08 through and through!

TEXAN for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Obama supporters you really are not too bright. You give the dumbest justifications why Obama does this or says that whenever he is criticized. LOL!!!

Tim   January 29th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

We don't need a high school boy with an altitude running this country.

Stan Harhut, Anchorage, Alaska   January 29th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

OBAMA is a pig-headed-dumbo the elephant ears that belongs to Rezko crowd. HILLARY will have the last laugh. the Good Lord will see to that, Blessed are the Humble. and Meek.

jason salmon   January 29th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

CNN is entertainment, not news. Once you understand that, it is plain to see why this event is such a big event in their eyes.

Snore…zzz…

Liam   January 29th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Is Hillary a strong independent Woman or not? What was stopping her from reaching out her hand to Senator Obama, and for her to greet him. After all she was the one who came over to his space.

Why is Senator Obama expected to act like a supplicant to Hillary.

My lord! Hillary is supposed to be seen as a strong woman who can act just as independant as any Man, and then we get this kind of drivel, where people are whining because Senator Obama did not treat her like some Victorian Era Shrinking Violet who must always wait until the Man comes to her rescue.

Hillary shakes thousands of hands every day, and she is the one sticking out her hand to all those strangers. If she chose not to do so when she moved into Senator Obama's space, then why is that his fault?

I hope she does not break out in tears over such an affront to her sheltered existence.

Give the woman some credit. She is not going to swoon and get a case of the vapors.

She opted to not address him. Deal with it.

Latez   January 29th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Last night I went through my phone book and sent over 126 people text messages to support Barack Obama in their state Feb 5. I also encourage them to send it to 10 different people to spread the word on the importance of voting on Feb 5. I think supports on this site should do the same thing as well. Make a comment about why you support Obama and send to everyone in your phone book. We all can do something to keep the REVOLUTION alive.

OBAMA 08

Gee   January 29th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Isn't there another debate coming up? He is going to sit there and not even look at her and duck his head when she speaks? Or get a supporter to sit by and hind behind?

Hillary 08

Dave   January 29th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

this is making mountains out of molehills!

talk about micro-managing the primary election – i don't anyone in their right mind would spend more than a minute analyzing this so-called news!

caesar   January 29th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

I hate how people are easily compelled to believe what they see in an instant. As a social scientist, I am always – ALWAYS, skeptical of what people are trying to tell me is going on from their perspective of a particular phenomonoligical observation of human behavior, when that's all it is – and interpretation!
To me, this particular interpretation made by the Media is blown way out of proportion, and is precisley the kind of thing that fuels hatred and judgemental prejudices deep in the mindset of millions of people.
Stop this!
The people who are dumn enough to actually stop supporting Obama because of this, should not be voting for him anyway… idiots!

miss   January 29th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

THEY HAD ALREADY SHAKEN HANDS BEFORE THEY SAT DOWN!

Bobert in Austin   January 29th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Laf, your eyes are still glued to this site ? Man, what a waste of time. It is Taco Time here in Austin, and I am hungry. Remember, you can never get this time back.

brian   January 29th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I see one thing here. Obama's supporters are more die hard and they will support Obama even if he did everything wrong. On the otherhand, Hillary's backers are more reasonable in their tone. Just an observation!!!

nice!   January 29th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

craig m:

very fickle, sir. very fickle. your vote is determined by a photo op???

Gee   January 29th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

OH good grief Loretta. Don't like her red outfit. You are a real issue watcher. Vote for someone because of their clothes?

Hillary 08

ibarfly, a bar in your town   January 29th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

If this is what you use as a measuring stick for a person's character… Don't look in the mirror.

Joel   January 29th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

I really abhor this kind of reporting. Any sensible reporter having knowledge of human behavior should not be so quick to make interpretations regarding a gesture made by an individual before proper investigations into the persons actions. This is a terrible misjudgement on the part of CNN and it goes to show the high level of UNFAIR MEDIA COVERAGE RELATING TO THE 2008 PRIMARIES. CNN your viewers deserve better, get the facts straight before you start sowing seeds of discord among voters. I'VE ALWAYS BEEN AN AVID VIEWER BUT THIS NETWORK IS BEGINNING TO UPSET MY STOMACH

nice!   January 29th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

The AP just announced that Gov Sebelius endorsed Barack Obama. Sweet!

Mia, Stafford, VA   January 29th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

CNN will continue to post these type of "no issues/policy contrast" stories as long as 1400 people keep responding.

Pricha   January 29th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Oh Boy! How immature is he? I don't understand how're these people who endosed Obama didn't see it. He just a good talker, when he reads the script, you can see how good is he at the debate after debate, he struggled. It is disgusting to listen to somebody who compared him to John F. Kennedy, give me a break.

dee   January 29th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

CNN is turning into a tabloid

no better story

Hillary has my vote   January 29th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Obama will not unite anyone. He and his wife have torn us apart more than anyone I can remember. This shows his experience, none. You have to deal with people face to face. Clearly he can't do this even with Teddy by his side. So much for thinking he had balls. Grow up Obama. You are not even close to being good for us.

RKE, Suisun City, CA   January 29th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

All of this talk is much to do about nothing. Regardless of who I support, people are reallly working overtime to make this a credible issue. None of this reflects on Senators Barack Obama or Hilary Clinton. The only reason I commented on this story is because of the over 1400 responses to this non-issue. Maybe the two senators don't like each other at the moment, but we all know that they will unite after the nomination battle is settled. There is too much bias in the comments that I have read so far. People talk about the lack of civility between the two candidates; however, I think there needs to be more civility in the responses to this story.

caesar   January 29th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

I can't believe how many people are sole on this little miscalculation of an observation interpreted by the Media. It just goes to show how the Media has the power to control political discourse. Simple minded people, shame on all of you who are reading way too deep into this, when you weren't even there!

Bob   January 29th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

It is perfectly fair to judge a person for running for President of The United Staes by his actions during uncomfortable times, Thats the job. The endorsement of Ted Kennedy shows his political leanings. I have grave reservations about Obama and my decision on super tuesday is still not certain. Honestly, John Edwards looks the most capable to me so far.

Clintonhater   January 29th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

craig m January 29, 2008 1:38 pm ET

1) I now question my support for obama.

2)Obama behaved immaturely.

3)Hillary exuberates guts.

hillary 08
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

1) go back to school

2) your an idiot if you think Obama acted immaurely

3)your a moron if you change your vote based on a missed handshake…

I swear what level of education do you people log on this site with..

JAM   January 29th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

To Lenny (Democrat)@12:41AM, You are kidding, right? If it had been the other way around it would have been a bigger deal and CNN would have made it Breaking News.

Oprah   January 29th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Obama didnt have permission from Oprah to shake her hand…dont blame him!

Elizabeth   January 29th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

The media is making, once again, a big deal out of nothing. Obama is not immature and Hillary is not "grace under pressure." Some of the comments on these and other media outlets sound too much like the candidates. Maybe your operatives for the campaigns? I prefer to read real comments like Rev. Powell's and the one about shaking the hand of a snake.
Rather than focusing on who acknowledged Hillary why not talk about Hillary standing up when Bush claimed Al Qaeda is leaving Iraq b/c of the surge, how about talking about Hillary leaning on a Latina and an African American Colleague. Of course she wants to be seen with colleagues who represent the voters she needs. You can go on and on reading into the body languages of the candidates. I prefer to dwell in the thought that there will be NO BUSH come 08!

Chris   January 29th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

I from across the pond and you blokes sound bloody ridiculous.

Yes We Can!   January 29th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

HA HA HA HA HA…. CNN proves again the IQ of Americans is pretty low. Just read the post above — PRICELESS!

The story originally ran with no quotes of what happened just a single shot picture and these people really bought the story…LESSON: this is what's called a tabloid shot. And then CNN updates the picture with a quote from Obama's camp explaing what actually happened which makes perfect sense. This has happened to me several times at events especially if i just saw the person moments before. Did anyone question whether Obama and Clinton saw each other BEFORE entering the room or before someone started clicking away?… of course not! It must have been a snub! Ahhhhhhh the media.

Leo   January 29th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

This article is absurd and an insult to your normally wonderful news coverage.
I'd be saying the same thing if Clinton turned from Obama.
Or if Bush turned from Kerry.

This is simply not a story. Leave it for the partisan rags.

Debbie   January 29th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

CNN IS TRULY THE CLINTON NEWS NETWORK. GOODBYE CNN. HELLO MSNBC.

Sam   January 29th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

I am a bit disappointed with Obama here. The maturity level comes through. For somebody who is campaigning on unifying the country and willing to talk with our enemies around the world, this picture does not bode well. It just shows that he need 8 more years to get ready for the presidency.

EE   January 29th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Hey guys i understand Obama frustration.Well, let me think…they back stab me…they lie about my past….lie about my career….call me muslim…files a lawsuit to ambush a campaign I’m in in Nevada…she sicks her husband on me and stands by smiling sweetly…well I don’t know I might turn away too. Yes, I definitely would turn away. America knows this has been very personal and bitter. The Clintons made it that way.

Ask youself this…what would you do in a case like that? Ask youself why Billary didn’t go up to Obama and shake his hand and congratulate him on his win in South Carolina. My, my was she just possibly playing up to cameras. Oh dear I bet she was!

Give Me A Break Hillary.

OPRAH   January 29th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Barack didnt have the OK from Oprah to shake Hillary's hand. Dont blame him!

Dan   January 29th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Clintonistas are really hateful people. I am ashamed to have ever counted myself among your ranks in the past. Regardless of whether there was an intentional snub or not, those supporting Clinton really need to stop and ask yourself why you hate Obama so much? Do you hate him because he has the audacity to stand up to the entrenched leadership of the party? He is a legitimate candidate like Clinton and he deserves the respect of a legitmate candidate. Save you bile for your link-minded friends. Elevate the public discourse for once, rather than follow the lead of the Republicans by spoiling the public discourse

DD, New York   January 29th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Does anybody know why Clinton did not speak with the reporters last night after the State of the Union Address? The reporters said Clinton had left, giving no reason. Really, I would like to know what happened there.

James Martin   January 29th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I pinch myself at times, to see if perhaps I am still in the 9th grade and the "news" is being reported by a 13 year old. Why does this amount to news? Get real folks. CNN=Best team. IN YOUR DREAMS WOLF. Had to be a slow day!

Diane   January 29th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

There has always been something about Barack I did not trust even though I wanted to like him. I saw it last night. I think he is arrogant and a preacher man. Glad to see people are waking up to the real Barack.

I go with Clinton.

Debbie   January 29th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I KNOW BARACK OBAMA WILL WIN THE NOMINATION BECAUSE THE BILLARY AND BUBBA SHOW WILL DO ANYTHING TO WIN AND I FEEL NOTHING BUT HATRED FROM BILLARY AND BUBBA'S SUPPORTERS.

IF BILLARY AND BUBBA ARE THE CANDIDATES FOR THE DEMOCRATS, I WILL SIT THIS ELECTION OUT. YOU SURELY DON'T WANT OR NEED MY BLACK VOTE IN NOVEMBER.

MODERATE PEOPLE, PLEASE VOTE FOR JOHN EDWARDS INSTEAD OF BILLARY AND BUBBA CLINTON.

Maria Hilda Arenas   January 29th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Ted Kennedy's endorsement of Barack Obama "does nothing to change my vote.
I AM VOTING FOR "HILLARY R. CLINTON" . Mr. Ted Kennedy has a problem with women, he doesn't like them, that may explain his history with women.
I challange women across the country to make a difference, make history and elect a woman for our next president. It is time for women to rise above!!!
"Blessed Are Those Among Women".

Jimmy   January 29th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

If all the pseudo-prognosticators in this blog ,were a tenth as knowledgale as
say George Will , George Steph…etc, we could just maybe swayed a little bit.
And for those hate-mongers blogging their teeny weeny voices . They need
to see their Pastors and Minister. How can hate do anything but play into the evil hands of the Devil himself.
GOD Bless America and Pray for our country instead. DO VOTE on the issues
like the Economy and the IRAQ WAR. Dont forget our troops are dying, losing life and limb for our country.

Becky   January 29th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Give me a break. The comments run across the lines. If you are for Clinton you make Obama look rude and likewise if you are for Obama you think he did the right thing. All in all who cares if he spoke to her or not. The gloves are off and she has been snotty to him and tore him down and why would he go out of his way to give the press something else to pounce on. If he had said something they would have made something of that. Just vote your conscience and move on from all the petty politics!

Austin for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

You know, everyone thinks their candidate is the best and we have every right to that. But each time I read comments from the Obama supporters it speaks volumes of their lack of maturity–mental growth. But then as the polls say it's the young people voting for him. I believe maturity doesn't come with age, but with awareness and understanding? You are demonstrating the opposite. I'm not putting young people down, because I have two daughters ages 28 and 26 and I am so very proud how they address and respond to issues they agree on or oppose, and how they also settle difference with maturity.

I'm sure some of the comments posted are from older folks, you too are acting quite immaturely. Honestly, I'm glad you are supporting Obama.

Yvonne   January 29th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

This morning CNN reported that Barack turned his back on Hillary at the State of the Nation Address. I see nothing in this clip nor the one on CNN to demonstrate that Barack turned his back on Hillary or ignored her. I think it is very unfair that the media made such a comment because realistically, Hillary approached Ted who was standing next to Barack. She reached across and shook Ted's hand so naturally Barack had to move to the side or turn to allow her to shake Ted's hand. She approached them and ethically she should have said hello to everyone in the group, including Barack. If you approach a group of people or enter a room where others are present it is your ethical and moral responsibility to be polite and say hello to everyone present not the other way around. She behaved most unethically by not also greeting Barack in the same manner she greeted Ted. That is what CNN should have reported.
I have always admired her and even intended to vote for her, but she has been acting rather "petty" . That is not someone I would want as president.

Bill in CT   January 29th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

really.. you folks that think this is newsworthy are idiots. Living to be spun.. I do see Hillary going out of her way to reach out,,

Folks.. this country is in the shape it is in because of a lack of critical thinking as opposed to just being critical for no reason..

OBAMA in 08

Anonymous   January 29th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

For every one Democrat that Obama loses not shaking hands with Hillary, that's ten Republicans he just won over.

Uniting with Hillary is the poison pill of his "change/unity" campaign. You folks need to think big picture.

Blimzmus   January 29th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

What should have been a great day for Obama (Kenndy endorsement) turned into a day he may wish never happened. I don't think the incident will change the minds of the Obamanites, but it may have an impact on how the undecided democrats think of him.

Nobama   January 29th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

That picture speaks a thousand words. Hello… where's the politics of hope???

Judith Ferren Errol NH   January 29th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

You know, I think the media is putting a spin on this 5 minute encounter as well…

First of all, Obama has been very respectful of Hillary, it was her policies he talked about. then after Iowa and her loss there to him, she said "now the fun begins", and she had Bill go out after him with untruths and using a race card, he answered back, as anyone would answer back and set the record straight.

read the papers people, it's all over them, Clinton supporters are telling Bill to "back off and shut up", so it must be voters are tired of the same old dirty politics too…

As Mr. Obama said, "it was hard to tell which of the Clintons he was running against, Hillary or Bill"… And frankly as a voter, it was hard to tell which of the Clinton's was running for the top seat… It also showed me how it would be in the WH, if Hillary gets offended by another Countries leader is she going to send Bill out to slap them around for her? Get real….

Hillary will do whatever it takes to win no matter who she has to stomp in the ground to get there, amd no matter how many lies they use, or part truths, or anything else.

I'd think twice before I took her hand too…

Karen from Minnesota   January 29th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

This is not the only Obama gaff. He was rude at the first debate and watch his body language during the debates. He really does look down his nose at Hillary and has a puzzling look on his face. Bad fitting contacts? He really needs to look at the old tapes and improve on this. If he is the nominee he will have more reason to look down his nose. They'll swiftboat him, too! How will he handle that.

Jay   January 29th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

If Clinton and Obama were smiling & shaking hands the caption would say "President & vice-president Deal in the Making" . Either way the haters would be making the same comments. Who are these undecideds that got knocked off the fence because of this picture? HAHAHA

Brian   January 29th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

And? They are competing. When is that ever not awkward. The media's political coverage is sad, speculative, sensationalistic, and lacks any depth. Way to continue to lower the standards of America.

BERTO   January 29th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

MLK once dreamt that his people won't be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. There you are, the content of Obama's character speaks for itself on that moment. He's running for president of the USA not PTA and he should not treat his opponent as his enemy. Shame on this man.

Blitzer   January 29th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

I think everyone who read into this is retarded! My cousin works for AP and he told me, If you paid attention to when Hilary and Obama entered the building, the both entered seconds before each other. They greeted each other seconds before entering the building. But thanks CNN for steering the pot of gossip! I thought you were above the insider.

MH   January 29th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Folks.. understand that Hillary cannot beat any REPUBLICAN in the general election. I know she has a long list of lobbyist and interest groups behind her, who came up with so many wonderful ideas that you can find in the websites (most of which she cannot fulfill if elected). She has so much negetives… If you want to be under republicans for 4/8 more years, then go vote Hillary… Otherwise try for someone else other than Hillary….

ke, GA   January 29th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

This picture speaks a lot….who looks like a leader?

vic   January 29th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

This picture tells me everything. Obama is a divider and hypocrite. Now I get it why most of media praise Obama because Republican controlled media and they KNEW that Obama would never be their serious rival. So Republican want Obama beat Hillary. The truth is Republican is afraid of Hillary.
VOTE HILLARY for Democrat final victory

Mae   January 29th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

does it matter? let's just hope that we can get through this charade. Mrs. Clinton is a remarkable woman, she has been belittled , her words have been twisted, but she has held steady during the storm, you slap her for standing by her husband and now slap him for supporting her, why what has she done to those who treat her with such vile?

Mike Vasen   January 29th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Obama should have been more gracious. Hillary shook hands with Ted Kenndy who threw support to her opponent few hrs back. Overall I do not see much of substance, depth and maturity in Obama. No doubt he is good at words and to pretend he is genuine.

natouche   January 29th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

So much ink wasted for a single picture. None of you know what really happened. CNN is loving it and you fools are buying it. If it was Hillary who was seen turning her back, the same amount of ink would have been wasted.
Just ignore it.

Kay   January 29th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

CNN…PLEASE stop trying to "create" news and stick to reporting the facts.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

On the list of states won, michigan is besides HRC name didnt cnn get the memo? she couldnt have won that state because technically all other candidates werent on the ballot and those delegates dont count? and you wonder why we call you CNN=CLINTONS NEWS NETWORK, because your bias shows in every piece of reporting you do, you people are too pro-hrc, and like i said in my previous posts you are turning a lot of people off!

Peggie   January 29th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

It was more than obvious watching Barack Obama last night that he DID deliberately turn away when he saw Hillary Clinton. This is not a little thing. His immature behavior speaks volumes. Hillary clinton did what it takes to be a leader….like it or not.

If she were to walk across a stage and point to a women in the audience and say…" don't go likin my husband too much sister"…even in joking, the networks and these blogs would crucify her. Listen…just watch and listen. Mr. Obama insidiously does the "talk" a lot. Please explain to me why that is acceptable? I believe we are going to learn more as this goes on.

You can talk the talk, give a good speech, pretend to be ready on the first day, but when making a quick decision if all you can do is turn away and pretend someone wanted to talk to you doesn't say you're ready on the first day. The camera told it all.

coty   January 29th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

I have a question does Obamas rlegion proceede him as. whitch means is the stuff about him turning his back on the flag and want put his hand over his heart when the atnthem comes on true because if it is then why vote for somone like that. who wants there president to be like that. if i were a possible canidate i would defenantly confront him about this and let the american public see it.

Chris PHX   January 29th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Stan in Pitts Pa-
I agree completely! How and why do some women generalize all men into one group? Makes no sense. I mean come on… What if I said "Hillary is like all women, she lies, rided her husbands coat tails and cries when things dont go her way" That statement is completely false! All women do not lie, or ride thier husbands coat tails and cry when things dont go thier way. But Hillary does!

She is to polarizing… She talks about universal heath care like she will be able to accomplish that goal! That was the cornerstone of what she wanted to accomplish in 93′… We all know what happend over the next 7 years! NOTHING! Because NO republicans would even think about bipartisan work with her!

Xavier   January 29th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Well this does not make Obama look good. Hillary did not have to go near them, but she did because she knows how to do this. People say Obama was just trying to avoid a awkward moment, so does that mean that the potential president nominee can deal with awkward moments? The last one you need to avoid is the person that the American people are weighing you against. Does not look good.

BO -- Not Ready!   January 29th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

I need to know that the President of the United States can handle "awkward" moments.

I ned to know that the Commander in Chief of the United States Military can handles "awkward" moments.

There will be plenty of "awkward" moments to come for the President of the United States.

Barack Obama is NOT ready to be President of the United States. He will never keep world leaders at the table with his speech of "hope".

craig m   January 29th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

1) I now question my support for obama.

2)Obama behaved immaturely.

3)Hillary exuberates guts.

hillary 08

Rollin   January 29th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

From NBC/NJ’s Aswini Anburajan and Domenico Montanaro
On Obama’s campaign plane, he answered questions about the “snub” moment from the State of the Union and Florida’s relevance, or lack there of, in this nominating process.

He said he was “surprised” about the photo and how his apparent turning away from Clinton was being characterized.

“I was turning away because Claire [McCaskill] asked me a question, as Senator Kennedy was reaching for her [Clinton],” Obama said. “And senator Clinton and I have had very cordial relations on the floor and off the floor; I waved at her as we were coming into the Senate chamber before we walked over. I think there's a lot more tea leaf reading going on here than I think people are suggesting.”

McCaskill was on the plane with Obama to back up his alibi, and she scolded the press for reading something into nothing.

"It was not a snub," she emphatically declared. "It was one of those accidents. Frankly everyone's spoiling for a fight, which is the politics of old, you know this thing isn't the politics of old. Its about new. It's unfortunate that everyone is so anxious for there to be problem on a personal level and I gotta tell yah, its just not there."

Charles   January 29th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

I love that Hillary supporters find it admirable that she (and her husband) can play dirty politics, spread lies throw race into the picture…..and all the while smile and shake your hand as if nothing is wrong.

Well there is something wrong!!!! When did it become so politically correct to be a two faced jerk? I love that Obama had the guts not to play that stupid game and he snubbed her. I am glad to finally see a politician who is not afraid to show that if you are going to be a liar and a racist – then he is not going to pretend to like you.

It is sad, as I was a big Bill Clinton supporter – but the actions of Hillary 's campaign disgusted me. I had given her a chance – but look at how she is polarizing just the Democratic Party. If she is willing to risk alienating one of the key components of the entire DNC base in the name of her candidacy – what else is she willing to sacrifice?

If people want to vote for someone who is so blazingly fake, desperate and manipulative – then Hillary is your candidate. But be warned Democrats – I have loathed the republican party over the last 8 years – but based on her actions -If Hillary is the nominee…I will vote AGAINST her.

Howard C.   January 29th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

What amazes me most is that some people don't realize how the media can & does put a spin on any issue, topic or story. That could have been the two closest friends cought in a similar pose & the story could have had the exact same spin. It could have been that he (Obama) just turned away to speak with someone who was speaking to him. The photo journalists can take any number of photos, sort out the ones that will suit a spin & run with it. In the meantime, some of us will react (over react) according to what we've been shown and told. Amazing/Disappointing!! However, I would NOT alter the freedom af our Media concerns one bit!

Bob Marley   January 29th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Hillary is the worst candidate to ever run, for all of her book-learning she lacks common sense and has taken her comments and conduct too far. Her husband needs a good punch in the gut for his deplorable comments, very un-statesmanlike and embarising to ex-Presidential conduct. Good for Obama for snubbing that sneaky, lying, two-faced, camelion (Mrs. Clinton in case you were thinking about her spouse). I wouldn't give her the time of day much less shake her icey cold hand. Someone here mentioned that you have to get along and be political in Washington? BS, that's the problem now, no one actually stands up and consistantly states what they actually believe in Washington, all being servants to PAC's and their re-election money. Would you rather see him shake her hand and smile, knowing full well that he really doesn't mean it or actually see a candidate being honest and simply not speak to her as he did? She brought this on herself by her deplorable words and conduct during this campaign. Perhaps if Hillary were to apologize to Obama we would get this all behind us and he would shake her hand? I hate everything Ted Kennedy stands for but I greatly respect and admire his actions for standing up for what is right and not endorsing the Clintons (they are a package deal no matter what anyone says). I'm independant but since I'm very conservative I have Republican sentiments…with that being said, I find myself liking Obama more and more everytime he has a close encounter of the third kind with….Hillary.

skh4450IL   January 29th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Choose your battles CNN.

No news here, and you people are falling for it…..hilarious!

Obama '08

Doreen Ellis   January 29th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

This is the second time Senator Obama "dissed" Senator Clinton. The first was a public debate when he answered a question on her likeability. My friends and I noticed the photo in the paper. It was apparent he turned his back. Senator Obama has to be careful. It seems he gets careless when he wins. I also believe he is not a uniter by this action but full of anger.

Jami, TX   January 29th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

We, Americans, keep complaining about the lack of genuineness of the candidates, about how frank and truthful we want those who want to represent us should be, then when Sen. Obama displays all those qualities, some on this board want to paint him as immature.

I command Sen. Obama for what he did because he's shown me that he is NOT a HYPOCRITE willing to plaster a fake smile and extend fake greetings to an opponent who has done nothing but distort the truth in a desperate attempt to win the nomination. When was the last time some of you critics reached out to greet someone who had spread all sorts of malevolent rumors and innuendos about you?

All you Clinton supporters should ask yourselves the following: Will anything of substance be accomplished if HRC wins the Presidency? What kind of political climate will exist if she's elected?

It's time to be a little less self-serving and start thinking about the country as a whole. This woman. if elected, will bring nothing with her but the status quo, a wedge to keep the country divided and Bill's shadow for another 4 years.

Joseph   January 29th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

The vigorous attempts of Obama's supporters to excuse his behavior stands as the perfect testament to the observation that ‘It is the art of self-deception that we practice the greatest invention.’

rw   January 29th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

From Obama's autobiographical, Dreams of My Father: " I FOUND A SOLACE IN NURSING A PERVASIVE SENSE OF GRIEVANCE AND ANIMOSITY AGAINST MY MOTHER'S RACE".

Wow, this dude's messed up.

Amy, Kazoo   January 29th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

JB Hull- it says in the article it lasted 5 minutes. there was time for him to face her. He opted not to. Ultimately it's his choice. But it's also our choice to weigh it how we like, to use it as a tool to see how he really behaves in awkward situations. Didn't your mother ever tell you there are consequences for every action?

TC, Napa, CA   January 29th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

CNN… this is news.. HOW?! NONE of you will ever live up to the integrity, ethics, and true spin-free journalism of Edward Murrow! None! It was an awkward moment… even if you're mature, it's awkward. Like no one has been put in such spots before.

Thumbs down, CNN.

Lisa in Iowa   January 29th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

How can it be considered rude to allow two collegues to meet and greet each other without hovering over the two with an air of "Ha Ha – he's mine" appearance. If Mr. Obama would have kept his position, it would have appeared as a united two-against-one" statue, which would have been more impolite that what the media is reading into this one snapshot.

Also, I'd like to add that Mr. Kennedy's support of Mr. Obama, has increased my amount of respect for Mr. Kennedy, so his endorsement can work both ways!

Lisa, Houston, TX   January 29th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Regardless if the media is playing this up, Obama should have acknowledged Hillary with a simple handshake. Their in the same political party regardless of their differences. He should have set an example. Is this what we should expect of Obama if he does become our President?

He just proved to me and many others how arrogant and inexperienced he really is. So what if he has Oprah and the Kennedy's behind him. He shouldn't think he's got the Democratic nomination or even the Presidency in the bag.

As far as Hillary goes, what is the big deal with everyone talking about her looks? The way she dresses, laughs, smiles? Just because she's a woman everyone automatically goes for those insults. We may not agree with all her views but do we agree with every single view of our chosen candidate? I don't see anybody talking about the male candidates suits, hair and looks overall. At least give her some credit for standing up there being the only woman to take on the other candidates, media and the american public.

gary4   January 29th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Thanks Obama, I have been riding the fence until I saw such disrespect. We need a leader that forgives and reaches up and forward at the end of the day. Go Mrs. Clinton, go all the way to the White House.

Drama   January 29th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

A picture worth thousands of useless words.

observer   January 29th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Obama's mind was probably on Rezko. Rezko is Obama's baby, signed ,sealed ,and delivered. Their friendship has a 17 year history, yet Obama refered to him as someone I don't know that well, and his land/ house deal as a "bone-headed" mistake. No, Obama , the mistake is repeatedly being caught not telling the truth. There's no "Change" to that. For a clear insight on the Obama/ Rezko relationship, google Rezko/ Obama . Also, Obama made a cheap shot at Hillary about WalMart, Michelle Obama was on the board of TreeHouse Foods, their biggest customer, you got it, WALMART! Seems there's enough Walmart to go around even to the Obamas. Obama is living in a fantasy world if he thinks there is an end to the Rezko story. It's just getting warm.

Jason   January 29th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

I am really starting to lose respect for Obama. I am starting to see that he is like Bush who is also a "uniter". This was very rude of him, and it shows his arrogance.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

to Steve, Lyons, CO: i bet more people would rather still shake george bush hand than divise HRC, i have lost all respect for the clintons, after their negative campaigning and CNN = CLINTON NEWS NETWORKS, i never thought a network could be so biased, funny though is the people of America know it, and thats why MSNBC RATINGS are getting better by the day, keep up the good work cnn.

Frank, MO   January 29th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

tracey January 29, 2008 11:53 am ET

Vote for a real man…a woman!

Hillary for President!
————————————————————————————————————

That's when happens when a Billary runs for a co-presidency.

I just need ONE president : BARACK OBAMA !

Terry   January 29th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

CNN wake up!

Stupid stories like this that you are doing back and forth about Clinton and Obama is really further eroding the "little trust" that people have in the media.

According to a Harris poll a few years back, 62 to 22 percent (almost 3-to-1) majority of Americans did not trust "the press".

Way to go CNN …
if you keep up this tabloid-journalism, folks in newsrooms who take their jobs seriously will continue to suffer because of your lack of judgment.

Kenny   January 29th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Clinton Is a Warrior! You really can see someones TRUE COLORS!

bob   January 29th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

CNN is such a tabloid.

Doug   January 29th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

If Clinton would have done what Obama has done here, there would have been breaking news all day today! Obama the uniter, what a joke! Clinton 08!

skh4450IL   January 29th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Choose your battles CNN.

No news here, and you people are falling for it…..hilarious!

Dave   January 29th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

And here is the man who is going to bring the country together?

What about the Democrat party? If he thinks that snubbing his rival in the party is endearing him to her supporters he must be naive.

In any case without her supporters he will be an also ran….. sort of like Mondale.

EE   January 29th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

The Senator seated next to Barack stared intently at Hillary . She had little choice but
to acknowledge Senator Kennedy . Personally I think Barack did the honorable thing
because this was an awkward moment for both Senators Kennedy and Clinton. I
too would have turned away allowing them to speak at their first meeting
after Senator Kennedy made the announcement supporting Barack in the primary.

Bill   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Could Obama be like Bush was,a wolf in sheep's clothing?

dave ma   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

After reading the comments, Im thinking that Hillary supporters like to butt in to conversations that two other people are having out of the blue. And it's impolite when you don't interrupt conversation. Guys, please, just go away!

Bill Clinton "Look, see here, If you say Clinton you'll get the nomination! Clinton. WHY ISNT IT WORKING???"

Clintonhater   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

I honestly believe some of these responses are paid Clinton supports cause you can't be that stupid…people are actually basing his leadership skills on the fact that he turned away to LET CLINTON HAVE HER MOMENT WITH FRIEND…all you clinton yahoo's are delusional and makng something out of nothing…reading some of these respones are down right pathitic…grow up..

nancy jo towry   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

This showed that Obama has no respect for anyone that disagrees with him. How will he treat fellow Americans that do not agree with him in the coming years? This shows that as a leader he has not paid his dues and that he has a long way to go to learn what respect is. How will he treat other members of his party that dissagree with him. He is not working to better the Demorcratic Party and he showed that last night. We need experience in the White House and acting like a sulking child last night shows just how unready he is to lead our party to the much needed victory in the elections.

Dave   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

This article neglects to note that handshakes work both ways. Sure, Obama didn't shake her hand– but it's not as though she extended hers to him and he pulled his hand away.

Cody   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

People like to jump to conclusions about the motives of others. It is easy to draw the easy conclusions, but how often, in reality, do those turn out to be wrong? Almost always. In truth, who knows what it meant? And even if we did know, who can say what the implications are? This is a non-story.

dave   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

hi evry body, yes of course thats news to report, we have to see, what and who the person we vote for is, and if he stands with what he say, and obama prooved to be a faulse person.

nero   January 29th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Obama needs to learn some manners,as said before he does not even have experience how to be civil.

Kathy, Columbus Ohio   January 29th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

I continue to say this over and over again Hillary can not win the presidency without the Black vote, the Clinton's could always count on the Black vote.

And it now appears that Bill has turned off a large portion of the Black voting population. I guess we will be sitting at home in november, think Hill can win without us. If Billary continues to get ignorant in the race ahead we as Blacks can always vote republican to keep her out of the office. The Clinton's think they can smooth this over by november, think again!!!!

Maybe the hispanics will turn out in force to vote her in and get her elected. Maybe not. That's what happens when you pit one race against another.

Forget about this picture, would you want to shake the hand of a snake.

CNN– let's see if you place this on the BLOG!!!

OBAMA 2008

20/20 Vision   January 29th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

The media's understanding of human emotion will eventully decide which way poeple vote. This is just the cat and mouse game that the media plays to keep the American people blind to the fact of what their doing. One week Ms Clinton is the root of all evil the next week Obama's satins son. The media is so back and forth putting spin on everything it's rediculous. This photo was obviously took in the moment ,the camera was problaly on a multi- burst setting taking many pictures at one time catching Sen. Obama in an unfavorable position. I'ts all about controlling the momentum back and forth ,forth and back Obama,Clinton,Cliton,Obama.The longer this plays out the better for the media because without the drama they would'nt have anything to report.

Alice in Florida   January 29th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Somebody please change Baby Barack's diaper for him. Look at the poor baby's face.

I LOVE this picture!!!!!!!

Go HILLARY!!!! You already got my vote this morning :)

HILARY SUPPORT   January 29th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

OBAMA SITTING AT THE HEAD OF THE TABLE ACTING LIKE THE WAITER.
HILARY SHOWED HIM SHE GONNA RUN THAT HOUSE.

GO HILARY 08

Sunny   January 29th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

This is a reflection on Obama's maturity..

I can imagine him sitting with sullen face in international forums because other countries do not agree with US stance on issues.

He is certianly not presidential material and will be more like Bush. Certianly not like Ronald reagan who charmed his way with USSR and germany

US needs some one who can change our image in the world. Not a sullen school boy!!!

DE   January 29th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I am appalled at Obama's actions. It is much the same attitude we saw in the debate when she said that he was very likable, and he had a chance to be a gentleman and respond in kind. Instead he smirked and said, "You are likable enough." Her actions in the photo, and by eyewitness accounts, speak for themselves: She is the one who is reaching across to shake hands and bring people together.

Obama has lost my vote.

favor   January 29th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

this IS non-news CAUCASIAN NATIONAL NETWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Brattleboro, VT   January 29th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

It looks like the same people are pouring there venom here, some 10 times the others 20 times to make this a big issue: Nina, Mike, Jon…

Grow up! You don't have anything to say.

Ricardo   January 29th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Now we are getting to know the real Obama. Not a good one, by the way.

Sorry, Obama. I was undecided; but you just showed me the real you… a very inmature boy.

Joe   January 29th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

The last time we got a candidate calling himself a 'uniter' we got King George.

Obama is just another politician and not a very good one at that. CNN will start reporting on the REZKO mess very soon. Before Feb. 25th. They are going to create the next drama for ratings. Another 'Shock & Awe".

Come on folks wake up! Can't you see it? Look at what CNN is calling this critical election; "Ballot Bowl" as if this is just a football game. Notice the graphics ala Madden? Truly disgraceful!!!!!

David   January 29th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

It wasn't appropriate for either Clinton or Obama to avoid one another – how does that foster a changed environment in Washington? What they should have done is to sit next to each other – one of them will win the nomination and one will lose it and it will serve all of us better if the loser is gracious about it. We as voters are faced with a win-win situation – both of them are outstanding candidates, but in the end if they beat each other to a pulp and the Republican nominee wins the White House, the opportunity to make history will be lost to all of us. We need these two stellar leaders to behave themselves, conduct themselves professionally, and to stick to the issues – and may the best man…or woman…win!

Rubiconski   January 29th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Newsflash:

A senator–McCaskill–has stated to the press that she tapped Obama to ask a question at the same time HRC was tripping over herself to greet TK. Once again the Hillbots trying to create something that is not there. Baffoons. And the media….Well, there are no words to describe my disgust…

Robert   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

I’m an educator, and I see this kind of behavior all the time… in 2nd Grade!!

Is this really the kind of “change” we need? Grow up, Obama!

And what's all this biased reporting from the unbiased media? Had this been one of the Clintons, the media bash would ride it nonstop! I t's unfair how Obama is sooooo highlighted and praised by the unbiased media and Clinton is shot down at every possible opportunity.

Of course, in the end, we'll eventually know who is the better person for the job. It has to be the one who can back up their stuff with data and not slogans.

observer...Florida   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

LIsten Everyone……Obama did the correct thing!!!!!……Hillary was the one who came across and should have acknowledged Obama first ..not visa versa.Anyway this is much about nothing.

Sus   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Ha, Obama's a jerk! That's not the kind of detail I was looking for exactly. I have never read a job announcement that says "Looking for a jerk full of hope." Let's get back to running the country and give the keys to Sen. Clinton. Obama is all talk and, apparently, isn't even nice.

Nnenna   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Shaking hands or not is not the issue here! The issue is the best of the lot. Clinton is still the best regardless!!

Micahel Guinn, Ventura, CA   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Come on CNN, there's enough drama in this race without you stirring a pot that isn't there. I think you need to give us the facts about the ISSUES. This isn't "Days of our Lives"!

Rob in Tennessee   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

The math is really simple, Democrats. A vote for Clinton in February is a vote for McCain or Romney in November.

It's not a gender thing. There are women leaders all over this country. My representative in the House is a woman, and I voted to put her there. No one is saying that it's not the time for a woman.

But it's not the time for that particular woman.

At least with Obama there is a chance.

Ed,FL   January 29th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

I completely agree with Jon, so far no one knows the truth behind the scenes. At least wait for an explanation before any speculation.

Garry Lemons, Arkansas   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Okay, NOW maybe the Great Uniter is not so great or humble. A snub is a snub. I mean, geez, she SHOOK the hand of the man who had just endorsed him and he acts this way.
A turned back is a turned back and I still think his arrogance will be his downfall.

MOSES   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

why are you guys so naive about knowing the truth?Do you want to tell me Obama NEVER threw a sling at Hillary?now that he has potrayed who he really is what do you have to say?Shame on Dick Morris,Ed shurtz and shawn Hannity .Is this the true uniter?

sherry   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Hillary had no choice except to shake Mr. Kenndy's hand when he was the one who reached out to her. If Hillary wanted to be gracious in the public's eye, why should she have chosen such a distant seat? If she truly was a friend of Ted Kennedy's, why not sit with him to show that his endorsement was of little concern to her. If someone had attempted to distort my record as she tried to do to Mr. Obama's, I believe she came out lightly with just a "turned back". Her phony smile does not fool everyone. ALL'S FAIR IN LOVE & WAR. A PRESIDENTIAL RACE IS NOT LOVE by any stretch of the imagination. THIS IS POLITICAL WAR when you analyze it.

The press is making something out of nothing and is sweeping the public into this non-news nonsense. I used to have more respect for CNN and Hillary.
YOU HAVE MY FULL SUPPORT MR. OBAMA

Mallory   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

I think Hillary has great judgement and decision making ability. Lets see… she married an unfaithful, selfish individual. Your husband cheats on you and then lies about it to the world. I would have divorced him but she choose to stick by him which means she either likes abuse or cared more about her career then her self-respect. How could any of us want Bill Clinton or someone who put up with his disloyality back in the white house. I think if she tolerates it then she probably would lie to us and be manipulative just like Bill was. I know some people will say, don't judge, and oh she is so forgiving and has a big heart, but the truth is she let herself get walked on.

Amy, Kazoo   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

all it takes is one read of this website to know that BOTH Clinton and Obama are truly divisive. Makes one reconsider Edwards more and more.

Trinity, Tacoma WA   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

GO OBAMA!!! I WOULDN'T SHAKE SOMEONES HAND WHO TRIED TO JUDGE MY CHARACTER BY MY PAST EITHER!! CLINTON HAS PULLED THIS STUNT TOO MANY TIMES AND EVERYONE NEEDS TO SEE HER SCANDALOUS MOTIVES!!!

Steve Jay   January 29th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

I think this picture speaks a thousand words. It says a lot about Obama yet predictably, his fans are trying to down play it.

Also, look at the dignity of Hillary Clinton. She goes out of her way to shake the hand of Ted Kennedy, a man that she calls a friend and just yesterday turned his back on her.

When you look beyond the hype, I think this picture tells the real story of just who Clinton and Obama really are.

I hope Clinton wins the nomination.

natalie roy   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Good for Hillary!

T   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

It is a shame when the American people's opinions are so easily swayed by media tactics. Is who we vote for really narrowed down to a photo with a person's back turn, however arms and hands cut off so that you cannot tell what he is doing? We should be ashamed of ourselves for allowing the media instead of the issues take precedence in this race. Who ever is put into office next year will decide our fate for the four following year. They will have to clean up the crap from the previous 8 years. That is not easy feat. Considering not one of us was on the floor when this photo was taken, we need to truly re-evaluate how far we will allow any media (not just CNN) network manipulate our intelligence.

Jude   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

1400 comments made on this nonesense. It tells a lot about American Electorates.

Wise Uop and Grow Up people!

Susan   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

I would like to see some recognition of the Robert F. Kennedy endorsement of Hillary. The only mention of it that I saw was a comprehensive and elequent article in L.A. Times that listed the reasons why he endorsed her.

Rob   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Awkward moment, overlook …call it what you will, but this is no way for a candidate to behave. Clearly Sen. Obama saw Hillary and could have easily addressed her, or even looked straight ahead as oppose to turning his back. No way for a candidate or future president of the US or any nation to behave. I say again, if he can't handle these types of situation now, what happens if selected as being the nominee for the Democratic party?

Harry, NY NY   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Am I watching Desperate Housewives or an election campaign? What sort of news is this?

LadyM   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Both Clinton and Obama have had their disappointing moments! However, Obama if things happend like CNN is reporthing, had every opportunity to shake Clinton's hand or acknowledge her. They both need to get their campaign's together and Obama needs to start providing the public with details of his "plans" instead of harping on unity.

Will   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Is this really worthwhile? This is making much ado about nothing…I also see some female bias in the responses as well. Is it really important that he shakes her hand (like he does before and after every debate and says good job to her as well—including at the last debate)? Is it going to help this country one bit? What about her sending Bill out to send messages with racial overtones and codewords in them? Is that grown up or mature?

Terry   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Even though I think this is bad journalism…
really tabloid-type journalism…

I think CNN really knows how to make the Democrats all whine like litte babies and tear down their own party over "nothing" issues. How about some real issues?

This is a stupid article with a lot of stupid and gullible Democrats letting CNN bait them into bringing down their own party!

Robert   January 29th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Obama is an Immature, Stuck-up Crybaby. I'd rather have an intelligent adult for President. I'm now supporting Hillary.

edenz21   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

" A picture paints a thousand words"
So this is Barack Hussein Obama the Uniter.? The poster child for "Change."

Jonnie rae, Boston   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Look at the other pictures out there. He is actually talking to McCaskill. He shook hands and greeted her outside. He as trying to give Kennedy a chance to talk to her without him hovering. YOu people are so ridiculous. Obama is by far the most gracious, polite candidate in the race. He always has his supporters give the other candidates a round of applause, win or lose. She stopped speaking to him as soon as he announced he was running for President.

Georgians4Hillary   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Ruuuuuuuude. This is the same guy who says he will bring in Republicans (ouch!) and Independents to vote for Dem. He even can't shake hand with his colleague.

P.S. We know why the Republicans are voting for Obama….don't we? Hmmmm, November is approaching.

brenda   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

This man actually expects to be President of the US. Heaven help us, we certainly are going to need it.

Fem4Hillary   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

So is this how he plans to unify everyone by giving his back to people. WATCH OUT Ted Kennedy….looks like from now on you are FORBIDEN by your new Master to speak to Hillary

WAKE UP AMERICA!! This is the REAL OBAMA!! as childish as can get….

This statement by the Obama camp sums it all:

"I think he knew that Senator Kennedy and Senator Clinton were friends," he said. "This was obviously an awkward day from that standpoint, and I don't think he wanted to stand there while Senator Kennedy was greeting Senator Clinton. And I think that was an appropriate sentiment."

"appropriate sentiment?" Translation in plain English…. Mr. Obama is RUDE!"

Hillary 08

Jo Ann   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

To Steve@ll:52PM, Touché!

Noragloria ("Nora")   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Thank you, "clintonhater," for the insight in your post. We so often get only one side of the story.

Personally, I don't hate either of them. Am just watching and listening, so that I can make a decision before I walk into the voting booth on Tuesday.

We so need to get our beloved country back. Am so encouraged that young people are getting so involved.

Peace.

Jwill   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

The comment regarding former President helping his wife is totally off the mark, after all two is better than one, if one falls down the other can help them up, and that is straight from the good book. As far as Barack Obama's attitude in ignoring Hillary Clinton, it is relevant and tells a lot about his character, it is the little foxes that spoil the vine, it is the liittle things of life that mold and determine the character.

Max   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

This is just gossip.

In other news… Cindy didn't sit next to Sandy today in the school cafeteria, early reports are that the two are no longer BFF's…

Greg E.   January 29th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

How can we expect Barack Obama to unite a nation when he can't even be civil across his own party? He was rude during the debates when he said she was "nice enough" and in ignoring Hillary at the State of the Union. He is not becoming the leader I hope he will be.

eli   January 29th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

HA HA HA………this is great isn't he suppose to be the great uniter.

get truth guy   January 29th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Is this your guys "uniter"? what a joke! He made me sick!

ojah_w   January 29th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Ok, people this is ONE picture out of a million pics taken of BOTH of them. It is not a moving pic so YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT CONTEXT THIS WAS IN OR HOW BIASED THE PHOTOGRAPHER MAY HAVE BEEN IN HIS COMMENTS. Grow up, every last one of you. This is not remotely indicative of how warm and generous Obama isn't or how how warm and generous Hillary is in comparison. Geez, don't all of you have something better to worry about than a silly photo???? Is the love or hate between the two of them really that important???

Steve, Lyons, CO   January 29th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

"President Bush didn't shake Hilary's hand either. "

President Bush should be impeached and tried for treason, then his head put on a pike when he's found guilty. Why the hell would ANYbody, much less Hillary, want to shake hands with our Worst. President. Ever.?

chris   January 29th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

this is a stupid story.

but, since i cant comment on the huckabee one…

"Do you hold this end, or this end?," he joked, breaking his wrists and attempting a stance on the pavement. "It'll be like Mitt Romney eating fried chicken."

…breaking his wrists?

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

DONALD TRUMP DOESN'T SHAKE HANDS WITH ANYONE. I THINK HE DOES IT TO AVOID THESE TYPE OF GERMS.

Ed,FL   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Grow up people. This isn't newsworthy. Why make a big deal out of it. At least be objective enough to wait for an explanation. I know Obama he is a very elegant guy.

Leah DiMarco, TX   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Senator Obama WAS NOT snubbing Clinton.
Obama was talking to someone else and the picture is cropped so that it does not show the whole truth!

Steve Jay   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Its interesting that the Obama fans are complaining that this is not newsworthy … yet they have been happy for CNN and every other media outlet to make headline news of all of Clintons so called 'attacks' Hypocrites.

jonny   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

one has to be diplomatic, no matter what the circumstances warrant.

what about the saying " keep your friends close and your enemies closer"???

Sadly, Obama is not a uniter as he claims. Hillary had the guts to greet Kennedy. An ordinary person would never do that.

She just got my vote .Hillary 08.

My comments against obama AWAIT MODERATION and sometimes never make it to the blog. I have to soften my tone to critisize obama. This is so sad…

Doug in NYC   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Hillary definitely took the high road.

Amazed   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

It's amazing how we (and the news) can spend so much time analyzing insignificant topics such as this as opposed to real issues that impact our life in a very real way. I'm sure that Hillary has turned more than her fair share of "cold shoulders" in her day for one reason or another – heck, she must have turned a few to Bill for him to stray the way he did – but does that really effect you or I in any real way that relates to the presidency?

How do you tend to feel towards someone that spread lies about you? (And I'm not picking sides here, but if you've kept up with the campaign at all then you are aware that some of Hillary's ads have been erroneous and false.)

But I digress. The point is that this "issue" is not an issue at all – and we, as the American people that politics in general tends to think of as ignorant, feed into that belief by being distracted and enchanted by this type of irrelevant news.

Wake up and talk about something worthwhile… and demand news that does the same.

Scott   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

no one better think that this is the media favoring Hillary, my god they are ruthless. See the quick "UPDATE: David Limprod explains that Obama didn't mean it, no he didn't now STOP hurting him!!" The media will be as ruthless as they can up until Feb. 5th, if after that the media doesn't get their way they'll go to plan B…Slash her campaign bus tires!!!

Joe   January 29th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

The Snub clearly had an effect on the performance of my stocks this morning. (sarcasm intended)

checkthisout   January 29th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

The talking, shaking hands, greeting and so on went in for 5 MINUTES.

It did not happen in a flash of a second as some suggest.

His actions were DELIBERATE !!!!!

What a SHAME !!!

jonny   January 29th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

My comments against obama AWAIT MODERATION and sometimes never make it to the blog. I have to soften my tone to critisize obama. This is so sad…

Mark C, Asheville NC   January 29th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

The article, or at least the headline, and the comments from the Billary supporters are pathetic.

From the description it was a complex set of conversations involving half a dozen senators. Hillary did not cross the aisle to talk to Obama either. Neither made the effort to talk to the other.

Anyone but Hillary, Kentucky   January 29th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

This is so ridiculous, it shouldn't even be mentioned as a news item. But look at how much reaction it has received. I guess we know why CNN has posted it. Let's all show restraint, and if something is not "real news", refrain from posting. I'm only doing it at this point because after over 1300 comments, what's one more?

Bill   January 29th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Ward…..I didn't know these were Clinton's talking points but the talking points of an ignorant citizentry…..

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 29th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

DONALD TRUMP DOESN'T SHAKE HANDS WITH ANYONE. I THINK HE DOES IT TO AVOID THESE KIND OF GERMS THAT ARE SO EASILY SPREAD.

Jojo   January 29th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Why would a photo that does not tell the whole story make your decision in an election that will affect your future? Some of you are choosing silly reasons to vote for or against candidates.

Eric   January 29th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

You know, I wasn't even going to respond to this until I saw all the negative comments about Barack on here. Did you people even read this not-really-CNN-worth-news article in the first place? Although he may not have spoke to Sen.Clinton, that does not show rudeness or arrogance. Would it have been even more proper had he interrupted the person that was talking to him to greet someone who has been trying to throw his name in the mud the last few months? Please. Get over it people. Look at the truth, the nastiness of the Clinton campaign, and the truth of the Obama campaign. I am just amazed at how much people are hating on such an honest and trustworthy man, especially here on CNN website where I figured we'd have atleast some kind of intellegence jumping around somewhere.

OBAMA 08

Lost My Keys   January 29th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

"An appropriate settlement" for Obama to snub Clinton? What a crock. He looked at the back of the room the whole time Clinton was "in his space." Doesn't anyone see that she reached to Kennedy with the intention of also reaching for Obama? She tried. He dropped the ball.

Granted, both persons are ego maniacs right about now. And how disappointing it is that neither of them took the high road to greet one another especially with the cameras focused on them.

That being said, this is yet another manifestation of Obama's arrogance. He is behaving like a spoiled child, like some crown prince.

Mark   January 29th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

I don't know what he would turn his back on her, you never turn you back on a "Snake"!

White Women in NC Against Hillary   January 29th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Anybody but the big faker Hill, monopolizing on a media moment. Puh-lease.

OBAMA '08

JB Hull, IA   January 29th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Oh my GOD! Barack was looking at something else in a busy crowded room when a series of handshakes that couldn't have lasted more than a few seconds took place! This should be at the TOP of the political ticker!!!!

Anyone who still doubts CNNs pro-hillary bias need only look at this case study to have it confirmed

Ray   January 29th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Grow Up Obama!!! Just because you issue a statement dosen't mean its true. Just like half the lies you have tried to cover, this one happened in front of the world!!

Hillary 08!!

Washington Democrat   January 29th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

This picture reveals so much! Honestly everyone- the headlines today state that Romney and McCain accuse each other of being liberal- that is the worst label in their minds and the best way to unite their Republican base. So why oh why does anyone believe that a Republican would ever vote for Obama in the general?!!!
Obama, Clinton, Edwards- they all share the same Democratic/liberal
platform. The day that I heard Bill Bennett and Brit Hume compliment Obama
is the day that I realized that an Obama ticket is the Republican's best
chance for the White House. Everyone really needs to step away from the
rhetoric and THINK.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

CNN= CLINTON NEWS NETWORK, HRC = PRETENDER-IN-CHIEF!

Quentin   January 29th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Five American soldiers lost their lives yesterday in Iraq.

The President gave his State of the Union Address.

And everyone is complaining about a PHOTO!!!

Honestly people, isn't everyone acting a bit childish here.

We don't know what happened before this picture was taken. We don't know what happened after this picture was taken. And we all know that a picture can be interpreted many diffrent ways.

There is REAL NEWS!!! Happening and we're all fighting over this? C'mon people, get a clue. The media likes to stir this stuff up and it's sad that many people are taking the bait. For those of you against Barack, all this did was give you a reason to voice the displeasure you already had with him.

Now who's being childish?

Nora   January 29th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

First of all, I HOPE this is the actual story. Is there video of this to show that Obama DIDN'T extend his hand (or that., perhaps, he DID and was then ignored by Hillary)? In fairness' sake, I ask this.

In any event, no matter what the source of the anger is, grownups have to behave like grownups towards each other. What kind of politician is Obama going to be? Sorry, wearing his heart on his sleeve this way doesn't encourage me. Obama is going to be expected to deal with the likes of the heads of state in Venezuela, Korea – not to mention leaders of countries where "G" stands for genocide. In order to begin a dialogue, he will have to extend his hand. Sorry, for all her foibles, Hillary isn't worse than the aforementioned. Bad move, Obama.

IF he did not extend his hand and actually turned his back, he played his hand terribly. I'm not comfortable with this. Americans have no time for a "learning curve". We're in a jam as a country – in terms of our civil rights, how we're perceived by our global roomates, our economy, etc. etc. – and and need someone who knows the ropes.

Erica, Atlanta   January 29th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Who cares!!!!! Geesh!

Houston   January 29th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Clint,
so this is what it takes to get your vote – a non sense freezed picture. Thanks to voters like you, we will lead another 4 years of depression.

Bryce   January 29th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

So Kiki -
Does that make you a paid Obama blogger? Maybe people just want to express thier opinions because the Media sure haas misrepresented a whole lot in the past month or so.

How much do you earn by trolling this blog for Obama?

Vudeshie   January 29th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Obama seemed such a boor….. remember the moment in the last debate before the NH primary when he said "Hillary's likeable enough"… I really think that if he does not have the civil graces or courtesy to people who are competing with him..it reflects on his character… the funny thing is that these seem to come out when we are least expecting it and seem to reflect his core beign…ie. when he is not putting on a show on stage or at a television event. It would be interesting to speak to people who have gone against Obama in the past to see how he behaves when the guard is not up. I think that this may be instructive to see.. Maybe the Chicago press and tv stations may have some interesting things they can dig up….given his long history and experience is primarily in that location..

For disclosure purposes, I am not a US resident and citizen and I am supporting Hillary purely because of her abilties, experience and poise. And I am not a woman so this is not a gender based decision and nor am I white so its not a race based decision. Wake up America…!

Mike   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

I think you'll notice, all you members of the Clinton army, that it does not say anywhere that Sen. Clinton extended her hand towards Sen. Obama.

True… there is mean spirited bickering between the two, which they have both promised to step away from… I think this moment is a simple case of an awkward day, and an awkward moment. I don't see a problem, and this certainly does not make either look more immature than the other.

Further, I really wish the people who choose to comment on here would learn how to spell correctly. At least reread your posts before you post them.

Mary, Buffalo, NY   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

John in GA.,

Oh yeah, I'm sure that this was the moment you made your decision… You had your mind up before this. This is just another news article that CNN is hoping will get them more hits and traffic.

Of course Clinton supporters are going to throw a spin on this. If it was me in Obama's shoes, I'd of done the same thing out of respect for Mrs. Clinton…

I'm sick of the Hillary supporters throwing a spin on everything!

EWOL   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

OBAMA wake up brother take heed to the writings on the wall, leave that hypocrital
society and go home too Kenya where they really need you!! America is a society
that was established by W.A.S.P for W.A.S.P! Let them have their darling Hillary, because the chickens have come home too roost! Don't fall prey to the old divide and conquer tactic, get out of Sodom and Gomorrah as fast as you can!

adiv07   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Go Obama!!!!!!I think u guys are taking this for………….it doesnt make any sens ….why does he have to….why didnt she go shake his hands?

Go Obama!!! you rule!!!!!!!!!

Dabney   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Why does my comment need moderation? I did not put anything in it that is not true. What is false?

Steve   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

And why is this newsworthy?

Dave   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

This is just another example of how the main stream media fails to do its job, which is reporting REAL news and not MAKING news stories where they don't exist. Who gives a crap if Obama didn't talk to her at that specific moment. If they greeted each other earlier, then perhaps they didn't need to acknowledge each other again. Maybe he didn't want to create a situation where one didn't exist by interjecting himself into obvious greetings and introductions between Mrs. Clinton and other representatives. Either way, who cares. If Obama is willing to confront her openly in debate, why would he want to create a potentially awkward moment in a setting where it would not be appropriate. I don't see a problem here. I'm a conservative, and I kind of like Obama. I disagree with him on virtually all his policies and stances on issues, but he seems like a fairly genuine person. Hillary on the other hand, scares me because I believe she is someone who will do anything to gain power. That is not the type of person we want as a gov't representatives or as our President.

obaman08   January 29th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Some of you people are idiots!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Give me a break! This is not a video, this is a PICTURE that captured one second in time. Who's to say that they did not shake hands before or that he was about to start talking to someone else. Clinton supporters are SO ANGRY at obama's recent comeback that they are trying to come out with anything that will bring Obama down a notch. Get a life and start debating on some real issues. And shame on CNN for instigating this crap.

R S   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

NOW AT THE END, NBC FINISHED OFF , WITH LETTING HUCKELBEE , NOW WHERE WAS THE REST FOR THERE PRIME TIME THAT LASTED SEVERAL MINUTES. OR ARE WE TO DO WHAT NBC WANTS.

I DONT THINK SO.

AS FOR KENNEDY AN , MC'CASKIL , AN OBAMA . SICK , SICK

WONDER WHAT J F K WOULD THINK . FIRE THEM ALL.

John   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Poor spoiled little children! How could any intelligent person want either as President??????? They couldn't!!!!!!

Yama Rahyar   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

I've read this post five times, literally five times, and I still don't understand what you're trying to say happened, or why it's significant enough to warrant a post.

From what I gather, Clinton or Kennedy or Obama were trying to talk to Kennedy or Obama or Clinton, and Obama or Clinton reached over Kennedy or Obama to shake Obama or Clinton's hand, but someone – Yogi Bear maybe? – turned around and someone else smiled or something.

CNN, in the sage words of Fox News's Shepherd Smith, you've earned a curb job instead of a block party.

Austin for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Lois Blasenheim:

Amen to that! That's what I've been saying all along. He's the "Untouchable." However, I'm not worried because I truly believe she will come out a winner. Too bad they do report too about her lead in the Super Tuesday states or the many endorsements she has received since last year! Oh, but that's not newsworthy when it comes to Hillary.

Kitty, Denver, CO.   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

This is the most rediculous reporting I have ever seen by CNN.
It appears that after Obama's good news people want to bring him down. If Hillary can stretch across Obama and shake their hand she could very well extend her hand to him. After this I don't think I will ever watch CNN "The Most Trusted Name In News" again. Happy instigating.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Cnn = Clinton News Network, thanks for trying to sully the right candidate for the people, yes we want experience, just not the kind HRC is offering, what she offers is a policy of PRETENDER-IN-CHIEF, lies, distortions and manipulation, we know an act when we see one and her false smile to ted kennedy, was very obvious, Americans are smart enough to tell an act from reality and after all the events that occured yesterday it was obvious her smile was a phony, same as her tears in newhampshire, i have greater respect for obama now, at least i know with him, what you see, is what you get,no more lies and no pretense!

me   January 29th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

It seems Obama supporters forget the words the man preaches "I will sit down with my enemies and resolve our differences, this is "change" we need"!

How in the world can Obama say this to the world when he turns his back on a fellow Democrat?

CNN providing this is news, it is a definition of a persons words! It once again leads to what many are questioning and seeking, "actions over words"!

"Change, Uniter and Hope" are proving to be just words and yet the actions are proving to be negative Sen. Obama, thank you for exposing your real self!

Ed   January 29th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

They can shake hands in November after they give the Republicans the presidential victory! Thanks guys!!!!

ABC = Anybody But Clinton   January 29th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Hey Alice in FL………..how mature of you……..

Clinton   January 29th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

Do you guys honestly believe Clinton is going to give her supporters to Obama if he wins the nomination?

They will go to her good friend John Mc Cain.

veronica lynne   January 29th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

NO–the photographer who shot the photo said he was watching and saw Obama turn his back deliberately on her and stay turned away, and he shot the photo then.
Obama will turn his back on US if he is elected.
He is arrogant, and it's all about HIM. (just like Bush, maybe even worse).
America deserves better.
Thank you CNN for publishing this photo.

votehillary2008   January 29th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Very childish. He doesn't know how to play the game of politics. You have to learn to speak to people even if you hate them. Also, Obama is letting Hillary know that she's in his head. Bad move, Obama. Hillary did a great job of showing Ted Kennedy she doesn't care about his endorsement. She is such a tough woman! I can only hope to be like her one day.

Amy, Kazoo   January 29th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

stan, RELAX. the "typical male behavior" comment was a joke. How about you get your panties out of a bunch, ok?

no name   January 29th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

to all that had wrote some thing bad about barack and the Clintons you should be ashamed of your self’s if this country wants to go forward in the raciscial diversity in America we should be supporting both candidates and not critizing one for not shaking hands

Jeanne   January 29th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Obama's snubbing of seator Clinton[and that's what it was as it could not have been easy for her to walk into that room] shows he does not have the political savvy to be president of the United States. he worries me.

Dabney   January 29th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

The Kennedy's are backing Obama because he is represents the things JFK stood for. What was that? Using the White House as a virtual brothel? With revolving door women coming and going. It is well documented that when Jackie left the White House for a purpose that the elite went to the pool for swimming with the " ladies". Also, JFK had a notorious affair with Marilyn Monroe and no one can dispute it. Then he turned her over to his brother, Bobby. They really had a lot of respect for women, those Kennedy men. Even Old Ted.
I will proudly vote for Ms. Clinton. Anyone the Kennedy's are for I will be against. Oh, by the way who sent the first advisors to Vietnam? It was JFK….because of him, my junior high school teacher was there and died. He was a young man with a promising future. Please, people use your head. What is it the Kennedy's really want from Obama?

Valerie   January 29th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

NOT newsworthy; they may've had a prior conversation, or one later, or maybe he just felt that she was being fake and he didn't want to acknowledge; who cares?

Jim Kansas   January 29th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

After 7 years of Dubya, ya'all expect maturity in a canidate. Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa.

MonaP   January 29th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Barack Obama – statesman – give me a break. He can't even act civil in the sacred chambers of our government – how would he act in chambers of foreign governments.

He's a manipulative politican of the old school – change and not the old ways – hey is anyone more the old world politician than Ted Kennedy? Give us a break -

The media better stop letting Obama have it both ways – the American people are not stupid – we are watching and watching very closely and we don't like an unfair fight.

KimSC   January 29th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

You can not run on a platform of a "uniter" and turn your back on someone that you will have to work with in the near future to get things done! Obama's "actions" clearly do not match his talk. It was childish and so contridicted the very talk he has been talking to the American people.

Hillary impressed me, it was not a good day for her yet she dug deep showing courage, strength, and leadership. There was no hiding or turning away, she faced them head on with her hand extended. That is the kind of President I am talking about.

GO HILLARY!

NickNas   January 29th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

WHAT I REALLY THINK CNN &CO SHOULD BE REPORTING ON

Just like Bush to put up a proposal that includes 50 BILLION for Corporations and claim it will help the PEOPLE. Then Blame the Democrats for slowing down his aid to the " people" because they want to add money that ACTUALLY GOES TO THE PEOPLE!

Dirty politics as usual.

Are people REALLY not catching this????

Joe   January 29th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Obama stood up and gave Bush and enthusiastic standing ovation as he walked into the chamber. Anybody notice that during Obama's standing ovation to Bush that the so-called 'kingmaker' Teddy didn't stand up and or clap? Neither did Hillary; no clap, no smile to welcome King George. The arrogant 'prince' Obama thinks he's got this nomination all sewn up. No handshake to HIllary. All ego, no substance, no real character.

If he gets the nomination all I have to say again, is KARL ROVE & REZKO and 4 more painful years of Republican rule. If you really believe The Rove Machine wants to run against Hillary then you are truly naive. All the skeletons have been out of the Clinton closet for the last 15 years. Obama is fresh meat for the Republican Machine.

Stay tuned, its coming Obama supporters. REZKO trial starts on Feb. 25th after Super Tuesday. They already threw Rezko in jail 2 days ago for bail violation. The Chicago Sun Times is printing a new story almost everyday on this sorry mess. Who's gonna flip 1st is the only question now.

We Dems unfortunately don't know how to win an election. Did the Kerry endorsement from Kennedy help in the 2004 race? Nope. Kerry was a horrible candidate and choice. Once again, Ted Kennedy proved to me his lack of judgement back then & now. Maybe, just like his 'crowned prince' Obama said about him in the not so distant past, "he's too old'.

JR   January 29th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

One more prove that he has become this a personal issue and they keep making excuses for all his negative actions instead of facing them. Is that the kind of president we want now?.
I am not trying to say anything negative about Obama, and just facing the facts.

Mike   January 29th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Wow I am literally shocked. Something that isn't 100% pro Obama. I think this is a first. totally funny to hear how a whole new group of Obama supporters are saying this is a non story. I am not saying it is or isn't, but maybe you should think about this a bit when you read all the CNN stories saying how racist the Clintons are, how much they are liars.

I am just asking you to think a little bit and realize this goes both ways so don't always jump to conclusions.

Owen Lewis   January 29th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

Wow! Forty some odd year old man running for highest and most important job in the US with a mentality and character of a teen-ager. Grow up!

Thomas   January 29th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

A man want to become president, he must be a gentleman first. A man want to unite the country, he must unite his colleague first. So everyone can see that talk is talk, but sometime may fooled some people. But voters must know his real color.

Jessica   January 29th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

The photographer said that Obama turned away and Obama campaign said it too but they said he did it to avoid an ackward moment. Well he made it worse.
I am disguisted by this kind of behavior. obama is like the others.

mark   January 29th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

if he turns his back on someone in his own party, what's to stop him from doing that to international dignitaries? he keeps talking about being opposed to divisive politics, but this is another example of how his arm arm isn't long enough to reach next to him, let alone across the aisle.

ABC = Anybody But Clinton   January 29th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Oh yeah……..I forgot……….CNN = Clinton News Network
Figures

Mike   January 29th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

I think Obama has been shocked and hurt by the tactics the Clintons have used to try and win the nomination. They were supposed to be friends and teammates, but the Clintons have shown that they don't care if they stab a fellow party member in the back as long as it gets them back into the White House. While I don't think it is politically savvy, I do think it is human. Obama's campaign says that he didn't want to get involved in what was obviously an awkward moment for Kennedy and Clinton since Kennedy had endorsed Obama earlier that day. This seems completely plausible, but I would guess that the truth is more a combination of the two.

I would also like to condemn Jessica Yellin and CNN's reporting on this incident. If you want to report that Obama and Clinton didn't talk that's fine. But why don't you do your job and investigate the situation and talk to Obama and Clinton and Kennedy and the others who were there instead of simply adding in drama to hype up your story. If we wanted this kind of lazy, juvenile reporting we would go to Fox News.

Tim   January 29th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Why should Obama be a fake and shake Hillary's hand? Because he should not be a fake, he is suppose to be a person that unites. If he really was a uniter he would have let go of differences and notice Hillary. Where is this Unity that he talks about all the time. Is it real. Sure don't look like it is.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

To Amy, Kazoo: is it typical female behaviour to be sooo polarizing, divisive and manipulative? to rely soooo heavily on her husband and go about with distortions of the truth? if thats typical female behaviour then America has a problem with HRC! even the president didnt shake her hand, when you could, and actually took a light Jab at her economic policy during his speech! When are you gonna get it? The republicans will never work with HRC to get anything done they stopped her in 93″, impeached her husband! nothing will ever get done for you and your family if HRC is the nominee, we need someone with a great record of reaching across party line to get things done for you and your family and obama is the choice!

Alice in Florida   January 29th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Actually, in this picture he just looks like maybe he needs his diaper changed.

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 29th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

To Dan, Austin TX: you said: that when Obama lost NV, he "flew home", but that "when Hillary lost Iowa and South Carolina, she gave speaches to her supporters, and she even called Obama personally and gave him congrats".

Dan, where was Hillary's SPEECH given on the night of the South Carolina caucus? You thought it was SC, didn't you?

Hillary supporters, please at least be informed before you say things!!

AliceInWonderLand   January 29th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

To this picture you should add the one after the Nevada debate…there Obama with his 'unhappy face' looking away from Clinton + …

Houston   January 29th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

I doubt it if Obama has a different color, all this would be an issue. Seems like people want to convince their already biased brain by raising non-sense topics like "Obama turned his back to Hillary, so he is not fit to be a president". What a ridiculous act of decieving onself.

jj   January 29th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

What a telling picture! I'm voting for Hillary!

true colors   January 29th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Reminds me of the jerks I work with who won't even say 'Good Morning'

KMD   January 29th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

I appreciate CNN taking the time to have a poll on how sick people are of having saint Obama crammed down their throats. Maybe CNN will shut up about him now. One could hope that the psychotic Obama supporters will finally get a clue that not everyone buys the spiel their adored one is trying to sell, but they aren't called Obamabots for nothing.

Sarah L, Fayetteville, AR   January 29th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

You people who think this is a big deal are bloody ridiculous. She didn't approach him either. Stop acting like 8th graders.

concerned citizen   January 29th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

alot of people is say So WHat…but if Obama claims to be a United he should have the decency to atlease aknowledge Senator Clinton. This means if your against Obama politically watch out because he won't work with you…This is what this picture is interpreting.

Go Hillary

Maj. T

US Marine Corp

Jon   January 29th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

No one knows the real truth behind the scenes of these instances; however at all prior debates Obama did greet Clinton and shook hands so I don't see the confusion about this matter.

Amy, Kazoo   January 29th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

We ask our kids to "make nice" with their enemies on the playground. We make them face each other, say they're sorry, and be nice. By saying this does not matter, are we really saying we expect more out of our TODDLERS than we do out of grown adults? It's no lie that both Obama and Clinton have contributed to this divide in our party and they've shown they're each insatiably hungry to make history and try to repair our nation. But if we can't even get two adults to face each other, talk about the big pink elephant in the room, say HELLO, then how on earth are we supposed to be filled with hope for the much, much bigger picture here?

Lydia   January 29th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

If all of you would take race, gender and politics out of the equation and think of this as an incident involving two human beings, you would understand how awkward a moment that was for both of them.

I'm certain Obama did not want to appear to be gloating over the endorsements of the Kennedy family (or at least three of them) so the best thing to do in that type of awkward situation is to be preoccupied. That "saves face" for both people involved.

In this instance with Obama being preoccupied, it gave Hillary the opportunity to not have to shake the hand of her rival and feign a civility she probably doesn't feel and for Obama, he did not have to make Hillary feel uncomfortable or feel obligated to acknowledge him.

Under the circumstances, for him to be preoccupied was gracious move in an awkward situation.

Let's all just enjoy the political process and the fact that we're all interested in politics for a change and stop fueling issues that continue to divide us as a nation.

Joseph   January 29th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

It took Clinton a lot of guts and fortitude to shake the man who just kicked you to the ground after crowning Obama as the next JFK. Obama was on top of the world and could have afforded to be magnanimous in his victory and condescended to at least acknowledge her presence and greet her. Instead, he showed his true character (and lack of manners and civility) by turning away until she left.

Karen   January 29th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Its a shame that I was an undecided voter. I couldn't make up my mind whether to go with Hillary or Obama. Well, Obama did it for me last night when, yes he did, snub Hillary. I don't want the President of the United States acting like that toward anyone….LET'S HEAR IT FOR HILLARY!

Amy   January 29th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

The main question is will Hillary have Bill as her VP? The law allows for it. Was this the Clinton plan all along for a third term for Bill? Remember Bill wanted to change the constitution to allow for a third term.

MyFellowAmericans   January 29th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

I am sad that you choose this to get fired up about with everything else that's happening in the world. However, you're being good little sheep and choosing distraction fed to you by the media rather than focusing on what's really going on. Also, what happened to the idea, "Don't believe everything you read." Anyone can take a picture and write a story about it. Sheesh, come on people. I'm embarrased for you.

brent   January 29th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Go Mitt Romney!!!

get truth guy   January 29th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Obama supporters, you are so hatred angery people just like your guy who even could not reach his hand to his own party member, don't expect he will be the next president, we will stop your attempts.

colorblind   January 29th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

THOSE PEOPLE MIGHT SHAKE HER HAND … BUT WONT VOTE FOR HER…Y.. BECAUSE SHE SUCKS!!!!!!!!

Keri-Texas   January 29th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

The update says this was an awkward situation and what he did was an appropriate sentiment. Well if you're President there will be lots of awkward moments lots of tough decisions. How will he handle those?… turn his back, vote present, leave the decisions up to someone else!!! We need someone willing to step into the middle of it no matter how awkward or difficult.

EJ   January 29th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Yes, this is blown WAYYY out of proportion. They took a "FIVE MINUTE" segment and now its news. For the most accurate account, you would have to have a camera on BOTH Senators from the time the exited their vehicles, during the entire "handshake" and greet peroid and afterwards as they were exiting. Who knows, Obama could have said "Hi, how are you?" just before the camera starts rolling. When you are shaking hands with 535 members of Congress, SURE you are getting tapped on your shoulder, having small talk, shaking hands. Obama and Clinton have a debate in a few days so they will shake hands and "greet" each other backstage before the debate in a few days anyway. This is really not news unless you covered BOTH senators for 2 hours and tracked their every move from the vehicle, to their seats, and back to their vehicles. No, this does NOT prove he is immature. and NO, this does not prove that SHE reached out to him. It just proves that the MEDIA took a (FIVE MINUTE) snapshot and says "Awkward Moment."

ABC = Anybody But Clinton   January 29th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

EXCUSE ME………HELLO……….HAVE YOU EVER HEARD OF BEING GRACIOUS???? DID IT EVER OCCUR TO YOU THAT MAYBE SENATOR OBAMA WAS ALLOWING SENATOR KENNEDY AND SENATOR CLINTON TO HAVE THEIR OWN MOMENT???????? YOU (CNN, MSNBC, ETC.) ARE PATHETIC!!!! WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO ANALYZE NEXT? THE WAY HILLARY BITES HER NAILS? THE WAY EDWARDS LICKS HIS LIPS? THEY WAY OBAMA COMBS HIS HAIR??????? GET A JOURNALISM DEGREE!!!! THIS IS NOT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!! THIS IS NOT NEWS!!!!!!!!!! THIS IS NOT NEWS!!!!!!!!!! THIS IS NOT NEWS!!!!!!!!! THIS IS NOT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!! DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!!!!!!!!!!!!DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!!!!!!!!!!!DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!!!!!!!! DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE!!!!!!!!!

CHARLAYNE WALDEN   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

OBAMA DID THE SAME THING AT THE LAST DEMOCRATIC DEBATE. WHEN HILLARY TURNED TOWARDS HIM TO SHAKE HANDS, HE DELIBERATELY TURNED AWAY. HE ISDEMONSTRABLY A POOR SPORT WHO HOLDS A GRUDGE AND IS UNABLE TO GET OVER IT.NOT GOOD FOR A PRESIDENT.

Geri Sacramento   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

A group of us were watching the State of the Union Address last night. The camera kept panning to Obama and Kennedy sitting up close and personal. Obama was all a-twitter, giggling, and talking in Kennedy's ear, Kennedy leaned closer to hear him. For a moment there we all thought they might kiss. Couple that with his boorish, immature snub of Senator Clinton, and you've got yourself "Obama Unscripted".

Ward   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Bill Clinton lied to the American people when he said he "did not have sexual relations with that woman".

Hillary Clinton lied to the Democratic Party when she said she would abide by the agreement to not seek delegates in Florida.

That's the Clinton character.

Jessica, arlington, VA   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

I think you people are making a huge deal out of nothing. Who knows, maybe his back was turned the entire time and he didn't see her. The media will make a story out of anything!!! Wake up!

Lois Blasenheim   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

"big man on campus" – change to the "most popular guy on campus"

Clint   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

I was undecided, but seeing this and hearing CNN and all the cable channels praising Obama nonstop has convinced me…

Hillary is our girl! The media wants Obama. Let's give 'em HILL!

aware   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Ungracious again! A picture is worth more than a thousand words!

Hillary 08

keen   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Obama is one of the most arrogant men to come along in politics in a long while. Michelle Obama summed up both of their egos perfectly when she was Iowa told the crowd, "Barack is one of the smartest people you will ever encounter who will deign to enter this messy thing called politics."

That's right "deign" to enter politics. Both Obama and Michelle think they're too good for the rest of us and that Barack graces us all with his presence. Excuse me? Obama has a lot of things going for him including intelligence, oratorical skills, and charisma but he is far from the smartest person to deign to enter politics.

Politics is about public service and if you genuinely care about this country you never deign –you fight, you willingly sacrifice yourself and yes, your perfect image so that others can benefit. Hillary Clinton became the most vilified person in America when she proposed Universal Health Care and that move garnered her 15 years of GOP hits that are being recycled by the Obama campaign today but the result is that now we are at the point in this country where the dream of health care for everyone may actually come true.

Part of me spitefully hopes that he will get the nomination just so he can see what real attacks are like and his supporters can finally see him for the phony he is –but only part. Wake up, Obama supporters. This man is petty and inexperienced. Do us and him a favor and give him time to mature so that maybe one day he can live up to his promise. Giving him the nomination right now is like giving a teenager a bottle of whiskey and the keys to a Ferrari.

wendy   January 29th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

It comes down to this: If he can't slap a neutral look on his face and suck it up to shake her hand – or at least look at her while she talks with those immediately around him – how are we supposed to think he is a better statesman? As President I don't think every person he has to talk to is going to be a friend. (You did catch George W shaking hands with and smiling to Nancy P.)

Obama obviously is not ready for the job. I've seen high school teenagers with more diplomatic skill.

A for KC   January 29th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

The Hillbilly supporters have finally got something to bash Obama about. A picture of him looking down.

Cry hillbilly supporters . . .. Cry . . .

Just like your leader

lol

David Edmondson   January 29th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Mary, is patriotism confined to wearing a flag. President Bush wears a flag, but would you consider his lying to the country about Iraq patriotic? You don't show patriotism by wearing a flag, you show it in the policies you enact. People who supported this war, that their sons and daughters never had to fight in are far less patriotic.

Up North   January 29th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Has anyone seen this, Billary was just endorsed by Maxine Waters, who was named in 2005[4] and 2006[5] as one of the "most corrupt" members of congress! Now that is what CNN should have as "BREAKING NEWS"….!

LucieLee   January 29th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

I think this is all much ado about nothing~~!! Hillary Clinton didn't acknowledge Barack Obama either, remember….this is not a one-sided issue…if one at all……I am quite amazed how the media just loves to manipulate the electorate and how sad it is for some of us to fickly fall for it…………so if folks want to judge something like this, in the heat of the moment…above everything else…and cry and moan that Senators Clinton and Obama didn't fold hands in a friendship circle and sing "Kumbayah" on the House floor……and make that the "test" for which candidate they will/will not support~~~my goodness~~~tomorrow it will be something else the media latches that is more important to them that to us….and is meant to sway us…….This is just craziness~~!!!!!! We all need to "lighten-up" I think~!!

In disbelief   January 29th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

I felt the overwhelming urge to leave the 1,118th comment:

I agree there should've been some exchange. Rather than awkward silence, Obama should have offered to send Hillary a DVD of Teddy's endorsement of him from earlier that day. Then Obama could've watcher her foam at the mouth for the entire State of the Union address. That would have been much more appropriate and comfortable for Hillary…

CNN, if this is the best story you've got, it's time to lay off a few staff reporters!

RODGER   January 29th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

MR OBAMA DOES NOT NEED TO BE IN ANY PUBLIC OFFICE WITH AN ATTITUDE LIKE THAT!

Matt   January 29th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

For those saying CNN = "Clinton News Network."

ARE YOU SERIOUS?

Obama has grabbed nearly every headline on this site for a week now.

He acts immature…it is reported on…and you blame the same station that has been stroking him for weeks?

Please.

Surrealist, Fort Myers, FL   January 29th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Only Hillary–would accuse someone of working for a "slum lord" and then expect them to be responsive to her plastic smile and non-stop political posturing.

For God's sake folks…they were at work…he was being addressed by others around him–and Hillary never actually addressed him or greeted him did she?

Both of them should have gotten up and walked out–that would be the kind of attitude I would expect–after hearing GW suddenly setting an agenda addressing–the environment, hunger, aids, global warming, healthcare, veterans issues….hell after 7 years of dragging his feet and doing nothing–all of a sudden he has some plans for his last 352 days in office!!!

They should have laughed out loud…then walked out.

Jeffery, New Orleans   January 29th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

A picture is truly worth a thousand words and Mr. Obama comes across worse than a spoiled child. Is this really the same Commander-in-Chief, Unite the Country figure? I'm not gonna talk to you, nah.

And everytime he runs to the media with a press release, "that's not what I meant". For once, I would like to find out what Mr. Obama really means about something.

What is his plan for dealing with Osama….To whine and say he's being mean, making up lies about me. What's his plan for dealing with a Congress that disagrees with him on policies…To turn his back and say I'm not dealing with them.

I think the true character of this man is starting to come to the surface and for all his preaching otherwise, it's ugly.

But wait forget all that….because he and Michelle have already said, if we don't elect him now, he's not doing this again.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Do you want a fake person in the white house? if you do vote HRC! If you want someone with a fake smile, and can pretend and lie through her teeth, then your choice for pretender-in-chief is HRC! At least when you see obama, what you see is what you get, he aint no faker like HRC! IM glad he didnt pretend or put on a fake smile, i trust him even more now at least he is real!

Angela   January 29th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Thank you CNN for posting my post!!!
you actually posted my post that was negative toward YOU>
Wow, your winning back my respect – almost…
Keep it up. Please.

HILLARY for PRESIDENT.!!!!!! Yeah, baby!!!!!

I see why you wrote this story now by looking at the amount of posts here.

I guess that's why you get the big bucks.

marie   January 29th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

A president is supposed to be smiling and gracious at all times? I think that's Miss America, actually.

I don't see the big deal about this AT ALL. They are both human. Neither acted a monster, neither acted a saint. It has nothing whatsoever to do with anyone's ability to lead. Smarten up, voters.

Alice in Florida   January 29th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Bob – there was a video. Your crybaby choice is exactly that – a crybaby, and that's after he's has a GOOD day. Sorry to break it to you……

sharon R   January 29th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

All I can say is how rude. Maybe he can't stand himself for acting the way he's been acting . I think we need to take away thier cells no one should be able to go out this week just stay in and do there senate work and learn to treat each other like brothers and sisters and not be able to see any of thier friends in the media because I said so.

Black Women in Florida for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Hillary will get the last laugh. President Hillary Clinton '08.
You Go Girl!!!!!!!!

Ward   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

If this is a Clinton talking point, Obama is in better shape than I thought!

mvcabe   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

this is the way girls act in public, haven't you been to Middle School?

Bill   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

I really thinks the more important things we should be talking about is Obama's record in the senate of the United States and his record in his state senate. I like his vision for the future but I don't think he has the political maturity nor the political savy to reach his goals.Maybe in 12 more yrs,if the country is still around.

Vignesh   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

ZOMG Barak turned away. What if he was looking for somebody that he was expecting or something? Hillary Clinton is against the freedom of speech, why would anybody vote for her? She wants to ban children from playing Halo 3. What kind of woman is that?

Alice in Florida   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Wow! This picture sure shows the difference in maturity levels of the two candidates. I guess experience really DOES matter!

Baby Barack needs to grow up!!!!!!!!!!

Kate   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

I THINK I'VE SEEN THESE 2 SHAKE HANDS BEFORE .. HAVEN'T YOU? .. IF YOU HAD ANY GOOD UPBRINGING YOU KNOW WHEN TO GIVE PEOPLE A PRIVATE MOMENT … AFTER ALL THEY USED TO BE FRIENDS … BUT I GUESS IN THIS AGE GOOD MANNERS LOOK LIKE WEAKNESS … RIGHT?

ramno   January 29th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

"I think he knew that Senator Kennedy and Senator Clinton were friends," he said. "This was obviously an awkward day from that standpoint, and I don't think he wanted to stand there while Senator Kennedy was greeting Senator Clinton. And I think that was an appropriate sentiment."

— This is the kind of crappy funky reasons Obama can get away with because of the biased media.

donL   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

President Bush didn't shake Hilary's hand either. She is so polarizing. She could have shaken Ted Kennedy's hand later but she wanted to take advantage of an uncomfortable moment. She didn't want to shake Ted's hand. She didn't extend her had to Obama. She wanted to create a phony moment and capitalize on it . If she or he weren't running for president, they would have shaken hands. As my wife has been saying lately, "The Universe is watching."

Amy   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

**********************************************************
MM January 29, 2008 11:56 am ET

I do recall Obama waiting then following Bush to shake his hand.
**********************************************************

Nice catch there MM! Must appreciated! That's what they say – one action speaks louder than 1000 words. Do you Obama supporters REALLY think he is the second coming of Jesus? If Jesus was willing to DIE for the human race, your man was not even capable of greeting a fellow human being, in his own party?

tennessee   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Hillary needed something to give her a boost after the awful behaviour she and her husband presented to the world the last two weeks. So now her supporters are pulling straws out of nothing. Pointing to a photo where HILLARY DOES NOT EXTEND HER HANDS TO OBAMA AND HE IS CLOSER TO HER. She snubs him. But if it makes you happy to see an awkward picture of Obama and Hillary, and to call Obama all these nasty names. Then have your day. But the WORLD saw the nastiness of Bill and Hillary last week, and South Carolina spoke volumes. This picture will do nothing to stop that.

99.9 percent of the negative talk about Obama are Hillary supporters and those who would NEVER vote for Obama anyway. They are just trying to find any little excuse to justify their hate for this man.

Talat   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

You people are so gullible to the press!! Unbeliveable!!

Do you know how she behaved while talking to Kennedy or other senators around Obama? Are you sure if she was not there to create this situation?
She can easily talk to Kennedy and ignore Obama leading him to retreat? Is that so impossible?

Haven't you learned anything from last 8 years how media twists "truth'?

Deb   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Hillary displayed the grace one would expect from a World Leader!

Obama is just an arrogant school boy who learned how to write a good speech-or found someone who can. He doesn’t have the maturity to unit anything!

He will go back to being a Junior Senator with corrupt friends come 08.

Hillary 08

Ken   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

True CNN (Clinton News Network) reporting. The democrats are a joke and I pray that McCain or Huckabee win the next Presidency. If a democrat wins, mark my words, our nation will only fall deeper and deeper into a black hole of dispair.

Lincoln   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Yo Yo

My 'bro' ain't goin to give her any!

David Edmondson   January 29th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

I'm sorry, but I see the same partisan politics here. Obama didn't greet Hillary. Hillary didn't acknowledge Obama's victory on Saturday until her husband gave the concession speech. You honestly expected him to shake hands with her after what happened in South Carolina last week? Showing grace? How did she do that? A misleading radio ad and an inability to control her husband's racist rants, which were included in his reference to Jesse Jackson winning South Carolina in 84 & 88? Give me a break! Sure she never said that, but she should have stopped her husband. You can't have it both ways. You can't be graceful on one end while your spouse is helping you run a dirty campaign on the other side.

This is a fight to the end. I really don't care that they shake hands now, so as long as both run their own campaigns and not have surrogates speak on their behalf. They will eventually have to come together before the convention in Denver. Until then, may the better candidate win.

Susan, MI   January 29th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Hillary Clinton /Obama '08. Obama, if you want to be vice president, shape up.

Lois Blasenheim   January 29th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Will the media ever admit that Obama is not "Sun, the Moon and the Stars"? His ungracious behaviour towards Hillary was peevish and immature but then he is the "big man on campus" who no one is allowed to criticize!!!!!

teddy orlando fl   January 29th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

wow americans are really weird

who cares

snub the HRC she is untrustworthy anyhow

karen   January 29th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

well obama, the great uniter. Sort of like george bush the great uniter. Shows what a phony is – and all that talk is just that, talk. Now hillary has shown she can walk the talk. Go Hillary!

MarkH   January 29th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

If Obama had acknowledged/greeted Hillary, so many of you would be slamming him for doing so. "Ohh, he's just beside himself, he has to rub his Kennedy endorsement in to Hillary's face". The guy can't win either way, but time will surely tell. One thing I won't do for sure is vote for her. To hear her pontificating last night about how "WE WON"T HAVE TO LISTEN TO GEORGE BUSH ANYMORE" made me want to claw my ears. Like fingernails on a blackboard…

from: Chicago for Mrs Clinton   January 29th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Hillary is the most experienced Candidate and have done a lot for USA citizens already!!!!!!
My son, 27 yrs old voted for Hillary and my vote will go to Hillary !!!!!
She is the only one, who has serious concern about the Country and People of the USA !!!!!! (Health Care, Education, Economics, War issues, Immigration etc. )
Hillary will do good for All of US !!!!!!!
Kennedy Family ?????? Nothing good !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's signal, that Obama won't do anything good !!!!!!!!!
He will need to cooperate (REZKO link case) with some scumers in order to be in the position !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! not good it all !!!!!!!!!!!!!

HILLARY 2008 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

commonsensepolitics   January 29th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

My goodness. The cackling hyena-speak is circulating today, with the media playing into "I am the victim" answer that the Clintons have to everything, huh?

Obama is known and admired to be a decent fellow, and even Republicans who have worked with him say the same. If he had butted in and been effusive etc. while Ted Kennnedy was trying to make peace with Hillary, we may have seen headlines "Obama Rubs It In to Hillary."

GET REAL, GROW UP!

Truth   January 29th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

YOU PEOPLE ARE SIMPLETONS

Who cares if they shake hands come NOV they will be fighting the same battles trying to pushed their agenda with the other democrates. As a voter I don't give a crap if they speak at a state of union address. How many of you work for a company but don't particular like your boss but you still kiss his behind by speaking to him, but when his/her back his turn you talk about him like a dog. If Obama is harboring some ill feeling toward Hillary, I don't know if he is or isn't but once again it's demonstates Obama isn't phony like Hillary!!!!!

Unlike Hillary who will shake your hand smile in your face then stab you in the back.

The only mistake Obama made was turning his back he should have continue to face her, to watch his back from being shanked.

zika   January 29th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

please , leave this silly, unimportant, childish issues out of your reporting and focus on what really matters to all Amaricans. For God's sake, someone could be losing their home or a job to the troubled economy, while you are worried about how Obama and Clinton are smiling or not smiling at eachother.
Please get back to the issues.

Thanks
Zika.

Shrum   January 29th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Look at the fake smile on Billary Clinton's face. Fake Fake Fake.

I hope you Obama Haters know you and BIG BUTT are chasing away potential voters who see you as taking up for race-baiting. Billary knows what she is doing.

CNN, I KNOW YOU SUPPORT BILLARY CLINTON, ALONG WITH THE NEW YORK TIMES; BUT, CAN'T EVEN YOU BE A LITTLE MORE SUBTLE.

I DON'T ENJOY CNN ANYMORE. I WATCH MSNBC MOST OF THE TIME NOW.

Texans for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

I think this makes Obama look really small. I am sure that he might be a good guy. He is just too immature, and inexperienced to be our president. od knows we already have an inexperienced and immature man in the White House. I certainly don't want another, anytime in the near future.

J . D. Noman   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

These two are asking us to elect them the leader of the free world. They both act like grade school students running in a popularity contest. Forget simple civility – a leader has to look intently for the best in everyone and bring it out. There is no room for pettiness – especially when the consequences could be dire (past behavior is a pretty good indicator for the future)
I'm ashamed of both of them – neither deserves to be elected

me   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Watching this happen live last night in part and reading the actions of what fully happened just adds to the decline of the myth people have about Sen. Obama! A "uniter" would have been cordial at least, turning ones back is grade school yard childishness not becoming of an adult, let alone a candidate for President! This is a defining moment again of a Prophets words verses a self-PROFITS actions!

Since the NH debates with his "likeable enough" statement to this action, combined with exposures over Obama's relationship with slumlord Rezko, Obama's slow acting on the Clinton MKL statement finally coming out stating "there was no racial meaning in her words" a week after it was made, capitalizing on the political fury it was generating, fuelled by Obama's campaign with the media!

The moments presented define Statesmanship vs childishness! Congrats to Hillory for showing Statesmanship and exposing the kind of person Sen. Obama is once again! Hope Sen. Kennedy is proud of his endorsee he praised so highly today as the kind of person America needs right now! Obviously Kennedy likes a person with the personality of Bush in the White House!

Jeanne Van Halteren   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Obama's snubbing of Senator Clinton{ and that's what it was as it could not have been easy for her to walk into that room} shows he does not have the political savvy to be president of the United States. He worries me.

CHINO   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Mannnn…….. Obama really disappoint me with this photo, I thought he is a uniter, but he really just talk no action and couldn't even face Hillary eventhough this presidential campaign turns bitter with both on them. I really lost my respect to Obama too late he lost my vote his true color just came out. Unlike Hillary that eventhough Ted Kennedy endorses Obama, still Hillary came across to shake hands with Sen. Ted Kennedy now that is a true sportmanship and a true person that would face a rival despite of their inappropriate actions to damage Hillaries campaign to endorse Obama. How rude of you Mr. Senator Obama after all of those endorsement you thought you are all the way and best of them all just disapponting photo. Body language is strong and it carries your identity just by your move without saying anything you really need to grow-up and mature to be the next president of this country you're a snobb person, you shoul'd have atleast shake hands with Hillary at least to show your respect to her eventho you don't like her. How can you run this country? how can you unite everyone when you yourself don't even have a unity among your rivals? how can you face domestic policy and foreign policy when you become a president? are you just going to snobb those problems that occupy you? are you just going to snobb those communist countries and face not with a resolution? You made me make my mind eventho ow many endorses you get and how change you will handle and promise to this country, but just by this one single photo really shows the entire you as a whole person to represent the USA can't even unite us. Shame of you.
i change my vote to Hillarry before it's not too late yet…..
You just lost my vote and respect….

CHINO of Orlando, Florida U.S.A.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

All the people trying to say bad things about obama on this site were never goin to vote for him anyways, so please keep your fake anger to yourself, its natural for human beings to avoid akward moments if they can, i do and does every one else! HRC is a very good actress and we are now used to her from her almost tearful break down in newhampshire! there is no way she was that happy to see kennedy and obama in the first place, obama is for real, some people just dont like fake people, and fake smiles, like HRC! obama 08!

John   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Doesn't this belong in People or the National Enquirer?

charlotte   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

I am so disappointed in both Clinton & Obama. While they are fighting against each other their opponent is gaining ground. What makes everyone so sure that the democrats have everything so wrapped -up. One thing I do know is that the Republican Party is very cohessive and they are enjoying all of this. Keep up the good work Barack & Hillary, and you will find your bodies back in your seat in the Senate fighting against President McCain, and by the way , I have been a democarat all my life.

colorblind   January 29th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

ok that was a low blow…. but Hillary is striking out with her own friends, people who know her better then any of us….. and they keep co-signing for Obama… Why?….. because she will not bring about any change what so ever….. no one like her other than those who fear a black president….. im sorry a mixed president… maybe you can vote for his white side if that will make you all feel better….. oh and i didnt know that Obama won the WHITE MEN AND WOMEN VOTE IN SC….. HOW DID THAT HAPPEN…….maybe just maybe he's the best for the job….. the Clintons might be ok to sail with but i wouldn't trust them in the office again .. just ask Mr. Kennedy….. she should feel like crap…. like a ugly step-daughter….

carmi OH   January 29th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

WOW……….Obama acting like a child …….. and HE wants to be President of OUR country. P L E A S E he needs to grow up.

Kiki   January 29th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

PAID BLOGGERS:
THE MAJORITY OF YOU ARE ON HILLARY'S PAYROLL. PLEASE STOP SCRAPING THE BOTTOM OF THE BARREL FOR AMMO.

YOU ARE JUST AS PATHETIC AS YOUR WORTHLESS LEADER HILLARY. OBAMA WILL WIN THE NOMINATION BECAUSE HILLARY CAN'T STAND ON HER OWN WITHOUT HER MANIPULATING HUSBAND BILL.

LET'S SEE IF THIS GET'S ON HERE.

Rodney Dallas, TX   January 29th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

I can't believe people are making a big deal about this. CNN give us news not this. This is some high school girl stuff and of course Americans fall for it. Who cares?

carmella   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Senator Clinton has put up with ribald jokes, attacks on her credibility, and a boiler room approach to the issues that this country faces. Her desire to be president is no more self serving or power grabbing than other nominees. I am tired of hearing, because her husband dares to give her what she gave him (loyalty), he is tainting his legacy and that because she accepts his help that somehow she is weak. Senator Clinton has put forth real solutions to the country's problems, knows the nuances of her solutions and she gives details. When most would have given in, she stands to fight for us again and again. That, to me, is inspiration.

If this woman is not qualified, then, no woman ever will be. She is known all over the world. She has to be twice as good as all the other candidates and she is.

Francis DesMarais   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Unfortunately, we have in this brief moment, a close insight regarding the real personality of Sen. Obama. All is fine with the young Senator, when the ball is in his court and he is in control. It is seemingly difficult for him, however, to keep face in an awkward situation. This is a quality he must have a President. CHANGE is important, but dealing with the present with finess and diplomacy`in every situation – is crucial. This may come with more experience and maturity, something Mr. Obama must cultivate – perhaps after another 8 years.

F. DesMarais

vwcat   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

I wish people would just grow up and quit pointing fingers and calling names.
The media is obviously spinning this as a big thing but, in reality he was just stepping aside to let Kennedy and Clinton speak to one another.
Amazing how a picture can be misinterpeted and people react so extreme.
No one was snubbing or doing anything. It was a moment captured and spun for the jollies of the press corps.

lol   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Your country is in serious trouble if this is the kind of nonsense your electorate is paying attention to.

zman   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Hi CNN please stop diverting voters focus from the real issues. This don't any thing to do with the changes they trying to bring to the contry and problems we need to be solved. I saw president Bush laughing with every body BUT failed to address any of Americas current problem. So Please talk about real issues instead of 2 min moments.

Brian   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Why doesn't CNN report on the fact that Obama just WON ANOTHER ENDORSEMENT?! This time from Kathleen Sebelius, Democratic governor of Kansas, who delivered the official Democratic response to Bush's pathetic State of the Union address last night?

Instead, they're off reporting on ridiculous encounters like this, which have little to no bearing on the actual nomination.

Steve   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Anybody that thinks Barack should act as if nothing happened is a hypocrite and so would Obama be if he had acted as if nothing had happened. She has viciously attacked him on every side. She owes him an apology before anything should continue.

Curtis Lund   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

She must have been saving all of her energy up for this moment, during the SOTU she looked as if she was sleeping with her eye's open.

Someone get her a Red Bull

Paola   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Hillary knows how to act graceful under fire!!

This woman is great!

Barb Curbelo cusack   January 29th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

You mean, RACE under pressure. Obama was discreet & polite to allow Senators Rodham Clinton and Kennedy their moment. Obama & she had already greeted each other. Obama motivates the younger voters like nobody's business because he projects sincerity. The President of the United States ignored Senator Obama’s attempt to respectfully greet him, however. Why didn't that make the news?

Christopher   January 29th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

AND THERE YOU HAVE IT- A MAN WHO SAYS HE WOULD SPEAK TO ANYONE , "FRIEND OR FOE".. He is EXPOSED!!!! ..now… I bet he will extend his had to greet the slum lord friend/ business aquaintance that he represented…UMMM, whom was recently arested. Geesh, Hats off to Hillary who couldnt have possibly be very happy about kenedy endorsing Obama but has the himulity to at least greet him.

People should be very coy and understand, that thier vote would be wasted on Obama…

jeannette   January 29th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Subject: Obama snubbing Hillary

The "Kennedy Clan" must feel real proud of their endorsement of Obama after witnessing his rude and mean-spirited behavior toward Senator Hillary Clinton last night at the State of the Union Speech. I watched the entire incident and in my opinion – it confirmed what a lot of us have been thinking all along. Obama is far from being ready to become the leader of this great nation. Senator's Clinton's gracious gestures revealed a lot about what kind of person she is. WAKE UP AMERICA!! I think Obama has a chip on his shoulder and this will get bigger as time goes on. We don't need a racist in the White House.

Adam, Los Angeles   January 29th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

EEESH! Like the Plague!

Lauretta   January 29th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

and people want Obama for President?????? Isn't the President supposed to be cordial at all times, smiling no matter what and be gracious?? This is my interpertation of a president. It goes to show us that Obama does not have those qualities but Hilliary does without a doubt as she appeared the gracious one.

Vince Los Angeles, CA   January 29th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

It is incredibly amusing how many people here would accept the obvious insincerity of a phony smile and handshake as a symbol of readiness to be president. Barack Obama has GOOD REASON to not want to speak to Clinton right now. I would prefer a president that does not pretend to be happy with someone. IT'S LIKE MY MOTHER USED TO SAY….IF YOU DONT' HAVE ANYTHING NICE TO SAY…..DON'T SAY ANYTHING!!!

Nick   January 29th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

one has to be diplomatic, no matter what the circumstances warrant.

what about the saying " keep your friends close and your enemies closer"???

Sadly, Obama is not a uniter as he claims. Hillary had the guts to greet Kennedy. An ordinary person would never do that.

She just got my vote .Hillary 08.

veronica lynne   January 29th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Please post my comment.

To the comment from someone up above saying she should have shaken his hand–I saw the entire photo (this is clipped) last night–he is clapping and he TURNED HIS BACK on her when she shook Ted Kennedy's hand.
A picture speaks a thousand words about him as a man, and I can see that his supporters here are trying to blow this off as nothing.
But it is something, and they know if Hillary had done this their orders would have been to be all over her for it.
This was tasteless and rude on Obama's part.
Hillary has my vote.

Donna   January 29th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Obama has shown his true colors he is a manchild. If you want to hear preaching, go to church. If you want real change and progress for this country vote Hillary!!!!

Clintonhater   January 29th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

I can't believe the bullcrap I'm reading…Clinton's team already said that she shook his hand earlier and Obama's camp replied that the only reason he turned away was cause he wanted them to have there moment seeing as he had just annouced that he would be support him instead of her….where are you guys getting the rest of this "oh Obama is immature"…swear you Clinton supporters will say anythng to try and drum up drama

marcus   January 29th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

ARE YOU KIDDIN ME!!!
YOU DUMMIES WON'T VOTE FOR OBAMA BECAUSE HE DIDN'T "GRIN" IN CLINTON'S FACE! WHAT ABOUT THIS MAKES IT POLITICAL! LAST NIGHT ALL OF THE DEMOCRATS SAT DOWN WHEN THE REPUBLICANS APPLAUDED ONE OF BUSHS POINTS! IS THAT CONSIDERED UNTHINKABLE TOO. GIVE ME A FREAKIN BREAK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Judith, Ridgewood, NJ   January 29th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Talk about speculation!!!! Imagination run amok. The only way we know what is in the mind of another is to ask, and to first have the kind of relationship, where we can believe the answer.

John A   January 29th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

As a life long Demorat I am appalled at Obama's behavior, he is rude and obviously Kennedys little puppet. He has demonstrated time and again that he isn't Presidential material. If it comes down to Obama or Mcain John has my vote

Adam   January 29th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Once again, Obama shows in any moment of awkward or uneasiness, he can't perform. Whether voting on tough issues or greeting less than amicable colleagues, he backs down or evade it all together. This is who want leading our country? Things will be a whole lot more difficult as commander in chief. He needs to grow up and toughen up before he tries for that role.

obama...not 4 me.   January 29th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

What a loser, he couldn't shake her hand and we want him to run our country….I THINK NOT! He won't unite anyone, there is no way. This is the easiest it gets and he can't handle this. He better just sit down and get his diaper changed now!

free thinker   January 29th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

OBAMA SITTING AT THE HEAD OF THE TABLE ACTING LIKE THE WAITER.
HILARY SHOWED HIM SHE GONNA RUN THAT HOUSE.

GO HILARY 08

Joseph   January 29th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

OMG

Who the hell cares?

I think that there are far more important issues at stake besides, who likes who? And who did or didn't shake who's hand?

They don't have to like eachother, all they have to do is work together. That is the issue. This isn't a trashy reality TV show.

NevadansforHillary   January 29th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Wow…baby Obama – "the uniter" – now am really laughing! His true colors are shining through! This is the same attitude that those 'young voters' have – they don't respect their elders and most not even their parents. Thats why they support a candidate of his kind – no mannerisms and a true lack of professionalism. Had he had a proper upbringing I am sure his mama would have said 'son, be a gentleman and acknowledge the lady'. Wonder what he teaching his kids…

C.E., Minnesota   January 29th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

Thanks CNN. The clinton supporters really needed a boost of moral after the great day Obama had yesturday. They love to feed in to this type of loser mentality. When things arn't going well for Hilary they need nonsense like this to make them feel good about themselves and to somehow justify their support of such a worthless candidate in Clinton.

Also Im still waiting for my comment to be posted for Saturday night. I see multiple postings from people on here they say nothing everytime they post. I dont know maybe you only want to here bad things being said about Barak Obama

American Woman   January 29th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

CNN with regard to that story entitled ‘State of the Union: Awkward Moment’ on the Ticker, you guys are rather ridiculous and transparent. I am certain that you were aware that Sen Obama and Sen Clinton had in fact greeted each other prior to the moment in question. Consequently, as Sen Kennedy and Clinton were exchanging pleasantries (and in light of Sen Kennedy’s rousing endorsement of Sen Obama hours earlier) Mr Obama chose to grant the senators space as opposed to hovering over their conversation. Ms. Yellin successfully took a courteous gesture by Sen Obama and metamorphosed it into a tasteless snub.

As many less than prudent people seemingly act on emotions rather than logic (the infamous near cry effect readily comes to mind) you are aware of the potential repercussions of such gross misrepresentation.

I am most thoroughly disappointed.

D. Grant, FL

john17   January 29th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

A story against Obama, never thought it would happen. Obama's true colors are coming out, very immature on his part. Uniter? LOL

Nap time... Cookies later   January 29th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

wow, for a "non issue", it sure is getting more comments than any other ticker article! More than I've ever seen actually! It's currently at 1115 and counting. Probably a lot more that haven't been approved yet!

Let's see if we can get it up to 3000. Who's going to be… the next… Amreican Idol?

Austin for Hillary   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

OBAMA 08:

Would you still feel the same way if Gov. Sebelius had endorsed Sen. Clinton instead? I bet you wouldn't. What some to these politicians endorsing "their candidate" need to remember that their jobs are also at the mercy of the voter. Voters remember. Voters have the power to re-elect them or send them home. Then they can get jobs as political commentators on MSNBC or CNN since they "know so much."

Go Obama   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Maybe it's just not newsworthy and not a big deal. And maybe Obama just doesn't find it necessary or proper to plaster on a big fake smile, bug out his eyes, and act happy to see the one person he probably loathes. If he had, he'd probably be ridiculed here for faking.

I'm glad he's a real person who refuses to play the same games she and Bill do. She would smile and shake anyone's hand if it would help get her where she wants to be, I think we all know that. At least he's genuine.

Steven   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Is this news?

Tony B   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Come on people! This is not even news worthy. This, in my opinion, was Obama showing respect for Sen. Kennedy's decison to support him, rather than a long time friend. I believe it was a polite way to give two friends a moment to check in to make sure it's no hard feelings. If he had done the opposite ( joined their convo) this story would be spun into, "Did Obama gloat to Clinton in House Chamber". Let's stop the immaturity of jumping to conclusions everytime we read/see someone's idea of an interesting story for the public.

greg dawson   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Meow, meow, meow! Does not surprise me. Obama is a brilliant guy and phenomenal orator but has alway struck me as a cold fish. His achilles heel already is starting to show – hubris.

stan pitts pa   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

CNN = CLINTON NEWS NETWORK, you guys are good at attempting to damage anyone who opposes HRC. Jessica yellin your reporting is distasteful, instead of focusing on the presidents speech, you focus on two campaign rivals! America is getting dumber by the day! thanks cnn!

Ryan   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Obama shook hands with President Bush, Hillary Clinton did not. Obama acknowledged the little green fairy in the room, Hillary Clinton did not. Who cares? If this makes you judge both candidates then please don't vote. In fact, if I could, I'd revoke your right to vote and give it to the disenfranchised people around the world. You people are pathetic.

jm in atl   January 29th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

I wouldn't talk to someone insulting me and bandying about lies and half-truths about me unless I had to. Obama will meet with counterparties as necessary to bring the country together and make things happen. But at this juncture, he doesn't need to acknowledge Hillary's presence any more than she needs him.

Here's an alternative interpretation: Hillary was trying to prove how bipartisan she is, but only superficially. When it comes to knowing how bipartisan Hillary is, go look at how she executed her old health care plan. Hillary's not even partisan. Hillary's party is a party of one: only her.

KK   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

The guy is frigging pouting. Pathetic.

sheriff Ali   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

I think that is it self evident that "race" in America is still a problem and will continue to be a problem for quite some time to come, and it is totally unfair to "cast" the problems of race on former President Clinton and his wife, Senator Hillary Clinton.

Cnn is a great News outlet not only for America but for the world. I felt you did yourself a great injustice when you took President Clinton's answer to a questions that was posed to him about Mr. Jesse Jackson and twisted it to create havoc. Perhaps, just perhaps, "havoc" is what gives the News Media a higher rating, but in the final analysis, your phantasmagoric rationales and interneciene policies, are taking America down the road of no return, even further that President Bush's policies.

Both Clintons are not perfect, none of us are, we are all "fallible" and imperfect, but they are two people that has dedicated their lives for equality in America and you shouldn't sell them short.

Sincerely,
Sheriff Ali

Anonymous   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

HE SHOULD HAVE HELD OUT HIS HAND…IF SHE DECIDED TO SHAKE IT THAT WOULD HAVE SHOWN THE PERSON HE IS. SAD….LASTING IMPRESSION!

Payne, Athens, GA   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

I feel that Obama and Clinton are making this election about them and not what's better for our country. Sure elections can get stuffy and everyone loves a good argument, but when does the argument end and the candidates start showing interest in things that matter…not who spoke to who and who can get the last word in. I mean for all we know Edwards might be the best democratic candidate, but we will never know because of the Obama-Clinton cat fight…get over it!!!!

KAS   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

I'm so glad Senator Obama didn't acknowledge that snake Hillary. Her and her cheating husband need to slither back where they came from.

OBAMA all the way to president in 2008!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bob, DC   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

So how does anyone know exactly what happened? There was no video. Just this still photo. Sounds like yet another baseless hit-job on Obama by the media and the Clintons. Pathetic. This is why Kennedy, Kerry, Leahy, Dashle and so many others in the Democratic party are turning away from the Clintons.

Joe   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

CNN: Love how you pick and chose comments. Where is your bias now?

Obama is tacky. Where is the "uniter" in his actions. Seems the preacher does not practice his sermons. A picture is worth a thousand words but today it seems like 600,000 words. And yet, he went out of his way to shake George Bush's hand. Actions speak louder than words.

Shawn Northern NY   January 29th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

There' s was no need for Hillary to be seated so close to Obama. She was looking for added drama, like she always does and she got it. Obama is above her games and it shows.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO OBAMA GO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RF, NJ   January 29th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

This is just as newsworthy as whatever Paris Hilton is doing.

SC Voter   January 29th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

This is another example of Senator Obama snubbing and being dismissive of Senator Clinton (You're likable enough, Hillary), which is arrogant and rude. But it also speaks to his readiness to be President. Having instinct for how to save awkward situations is something a President needs. Behavior like this can literally cause international incidents. He's just not ready.

John   January 29th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

OBAMA '08!

Tracey   January 29th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Good grief! People on here are acting like Obama ignored a handshake that was extended to him directly! Give me a break! There was nothing rude about his actions – Hillary did not try to shake hands with Obama. Obama did not try to talk to Hillary. They are OPPONENTS in what has become a soap-opera of a primary election. Big deal.

Where is the real news? Isn't there a major primary in a major state today?

Deborah   January 29th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Is this blog for real???!?!? With all that is going in this country and the world – are we really allowing ourselves to be distracted but what the media tells us happened? So they did not speak to each other? So she walked over to speak to Kennedy? One newspaper said she hid in the cloakroom until it was time for her to come out. Does any of this really matter in the grand scheme of things? We are in the midst of a recession, a war in various parts of the world, people are falling into poverty daily, my mother cannot pay for her heat bills every month and you people are concerned about whether he smiled or shook her hand?!?! Never mind she reached ACROSS him to shake Kennedy's hand – we are going to get what we vote for

Moderate Liberal   January 29th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Wow! It is gratifying to see so many Hillary-supporters coming 'out of the closet'! I wonder if the MSM is aware of how many of us there are out here?

John   January 29th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

If anyone was to have had sour grapes during that moment it should have been Clinton(Kennedy endorsed Obama). What a testimony to her candor and professionalism. Once again Obama's naivite shows through. Obama could have seized the moment while all eyes were on them to show the country thet he is mature and experienced enough to be the next president. As small a moment this was, its speaks magnitudes.

California voter   January 29th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

How can you be a uniter when the going gets tough, if can't even be civil with your Democratic opponent?

(My first comment apparently was screened out.)

Amy   January 29th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

WILL HILLARY HAVE BILL AS HER VP?????? The law allows for it. Was this the Clinton plan all along for a third term for Bill? Remember Bill wanted to change the constitution to allow for a third term.

Kishore   January 29th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

You are confusing us. So are you saying we need to find other alternatives to Hillary or Obama? now?

ohiobrent   January 29th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

UNITED WE STAND?
NOT!
Obama looked childish…….
Not Presidential.

Adrian   January 29th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

How funny to hear the Hillary supporters belittle Obama, the "whiny little jerk." I'm glad that you all have the pulpit to berate this supposed childish behavior.

If I'm not mistaken, the adolescence has gone both ways. Unfortunately that's the state of American politics; not Obama's MO.

Soren   January 29th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

She voted for the war.
She is over 60.
She has been in Washington forever.
She is married to someone who lied under oath.
Nobody really likes her.
Wake up America!

Hillary Supporter   January 29th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

DMC, USA – You said it perfectly!!

Jason   January 29th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

5 mintues that changed the world… according to this article

miss   January 29th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

WHY ARE THERE SO MANY RACISTS ON HERE????? THAT'S AMERICA FOR YA

B, NYC   January 29th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

so what!!! who cares
an effort could have been made by both parties

Amy, Kazoo   January 29th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Clinton gets credit for shaking hands with Kennedy, for even going that far into the area surrounding Obama. She clearly made the first move. He retreated.

I don't know ladies….typical male behavior, if you ask me. ;)

Vancouver-Truth   January 29th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Thanks, Jessica. I thought that was interesting, too. It was a "missed" opportunity for Obama. It "saved" Ted Kennedy in the eyes of many dems. As for Hillary, she demonstrated her grace and her ability to "dust herself off and start agian". This is how she has survived the "slings and arrows" of the Repulicans and just one more reason Hillary is the best choice for President.

bulo   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

This is the guy who wants to sit and talk with our enimies, he cannot even see eye to with his opponet who shares the same things he belives in, who will he be a uniter, how will work with republicans in congress. I donot think he is ready for the presidency. He wants to sit down and talk to President of Iran, how can he do that if he cannot be civil with a fellow sentor. Obama grow up!

bison   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

This photo is an opportunity for Hillary Clinton. She could take the lead and show how she wants to only deal with issues , she could come out and explain that she and Obama had spoken in the ante-chamber. She could take the opportunity to explain how the media takes a picture out of context and tries to create a story. She could put this to rest the same way, Obama put the race question surrounding Biden to rest. This was not about anybody snubbing anyone. It was about trying to adopt the appropriate behavior in a difficult situation. Obama had already greeted Clinton. He did not snub and Clinton nor did she snub him. The photo does not tell the entire story. The Clintons and Kennedys are old friends, Obama was trying to give them their space to meet and greet.

Lisa   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

I beleive Obama will be an excellent president he is the only one talking about change. He has oppose the war from the beginning. He is very intelligent and when you hear him speak it is diffrent from all the others. His words are empowering. I beleive he can bring life to this country. Obama is the only canidates that have brought people together on the same page. I don't believe that you should try to pull someone down to bring your self up. Obama is a man of God. I beleive if we give him an opportunity he will make a change for the better in the United States. None of us are perfect but Jesus. So how could would be so judgmental of others.

Loretta   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

I dont like Hillary's outfit. Too red for me.

That means danger…STAY AWAY from Hill-Bill!

Latina Voter in CA   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

HILLARY WILL WIN FLORIDA!

CNN, be sure to BROADCAST the win!

Not fair to the American people in FLORIDA to be ignored! As well as in Michigan!

CNN, please report on how we may raise our voices to get these states back in for delegates! Just ridiculous that they are excluded!!! Help us help them..What/Who/How can we get the states Re-instated?

Prayu   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Seriously now? A piece about who shook who's hand and who didn't?

SA   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Frankly, I'm tired of listening to Obam's excuses and whining.
Now Sen Kennedy wastes no time in becoming Obama's attack dog. Don't tell me that Sen Kennedy is not from the Washington establishment…Barack, no hypocrisy there!!!!!!!!??????
A PICTURE WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS followed by another excuse from Obama. Need we go into Ted Kennedy's character and his son, Patrick
C. Kennedy's endorsement is a valuable one, but the other 2 just may backfire.

Rachel   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Obammas true self is showing — by their fruits you shall know rhem — He talks a good talk but when he had an opportunity to show he was a uniter — he showed the world what he was made of — to turn away is childish — so when will the press ever see the Real Obamma — will The real Obamma pls stand up –

again he is all talk — never saw or heard of any important pieces of work while he was in the senate — he is a big time liberal like the democratic party –

Khwaty   January 29th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

A simple picture CONVEYS more WORDS than our tongue and minds can put in a sentence..

If Obama can't even shook the hand of Senator Clinton, how is he going to UNITE our country? That simple picture says a lot what Obama is all about; his WORDS and ACTION are in COLLISION.

"ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS."

Jim ( Independent )   January 29th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

I would hope that America is smart enough to turn there backs on the Clinton's and all the Scandals.

Marianne, NJ   January 29th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

It's my birthday tomorrow and I wish Hillary would just disappear forever. Added bonus: take Bill with her. Americans are so sick of the Clintons!

Democrats have NO chance of winning if Hillary is the nominee. ZERO CHANCE!! Sen. Kennedy is intelligent and wise and figured out early on that despite the GOP's negatives, all of that will be trumped by America's dislike of Hillary. There are legions of Democrats out there prepared to vote for the GOP if Hillary is the nominee. Sad, but very true.

Sen. Obama for President! Gov. Sebelius for VP! America is ready to turn the page!!

DD   January 29th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

He claimed he's an uniter. He even couldn't shake hands with a person within his own party? How could we expect him to reach out to republicans, whites, asians, latinos?

angel   January 29th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Here is the full comment from David Axelrod where he points out that Senator Clinton and Obama had greeted each other before.

No, I don't think he snubbed her at all," Axelrod said. "First of all, they acknowledged each other as they entered the chamber. But I think he knew that Senator Kennedy and Senator Clinton were friends. This was obviously an awkward day from that standpoint, and I don't think he wanted to stand there while Senator Kennedy was greeting Senator Clinton. And I think that was an appropriate sentiment. Unfortunately, the camera caught it in a different way, and so it got interpreted that way. And that's the kind of environment we're in right now. It's a very competitive race, so every little thing is going to be interpreted in that way. But it was really a matter of letting Senator Kennedy have his own conversation, his own greeting with Senator Clinton without him hovering over them."

Continued Axelrod, "in this environment, every single thing can be – can be inflated and interpreted and will in a political – in a hyper-political light. But it is what I suggested. I think it's understandable that he would not want to stand there with Senator Kennedy as if he were lording it over her. You know, I understand that."

California 4 Hillary   January 29th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

This is a good news item and has brought out many interesting posts.

Chris   January 29th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Wow- the MSM finally ran an anti-Obama story!

Just another example of how smug and self-righteous Obama is.

Matt   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

I think it is his right to not like her and ignore because she has done so much worse. She has been rude and dirty in her campaign the past few weeks. and its on purpose. maybe he's showing her that what she has done is not right. good for him

Steve, Lyons, CO   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

These two idiots better make nice. I see no way for the Dems to win unless they're both on the ticket, in whatever order.

For all the crap Hillary takes about Bill, some of which she deserves, Obama is beginning to display a disturbing arrogance I find unpleasant.

tina   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

bye bye obama. Hello hillary.Obama acted immaturely.

arizona   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

I have been undecided between Obama and Hillary and can now say that I support Hillary 100%. We need a leader not a child who doesn't want to play if others are not playing by his rules. Everyone that is jumping to Obama's defense and feel badly that the Clintons are beating up on him, need a reality check. If Obama can't handle debating the issues, he can't handle the most important job in this nation. When his speech about "hope" fails to bring world leaders together, does he whine to the American people that they aren't playing nice?

Obama is not prepared to be President of the United States.

veronica lynne   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

To the comment from someone up above saying she should have shaken his hand–I saw the entire photo (this is clipped) last night–he is clapping and he TURNED HIS BACK on her when she shook Ted Kennedy's hand.
A picture speaks a thousand words about him as a man, and I can see that his supporters here are trying to blow this off as nothing.
But it is something, and they know if Hillary had done this their orders would have been to be all over her for it.
This was tasteless and rude on Obama's part.
Hillary has my vote.

Frank, San Diego   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Fits very well with Obama's thinly veiled threat of last week to withhold his support if Clinton is the eventual nominee. He back tracked quickly. But not before he lost my vote. We expect politicians to be full of themselves. But we expect presidents not to show it like that.

Contrary to the talk about how "divisive" she is, Hillary Clinton has become an effective senator who is popular with her colleagues on both sides of the isle. The more I see of Senator Obama the more it seems to me that he is unable to work past his resentments or reach out to others on any terms other than his own.

In short, his candidacy worries me. Not because it is destined to fail, but because there is a chance it could succeed. I'm pretty sure I know what's behind Hillary's smile. What's behind Obama's?

I had backed Dodd. After he dropped out I was undecided. Until last week. Now I will look at the most recent polls to see whether Edwards or Clinton matches up best against the likely Republicans and vote accordingly.

Roy   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Emotional irrational behavior on both their parts. Do we want this kind of poor judgment in the White House? Looks like four or maybe eight more years of Bush-warmed-over. I guess I will apply for my naturalization as a citizen of Mexico now.

Sara - Florida   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Nice spin. Obama was being rude, but of course he would never acknowledge that he would do anything deliberately. His campaign and the media keep spinning everything to his favor, but hopefully the American public will recognize the truth.

Randy   January 29th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Lots of folks ragging on Obama- who has been attacked on several occasions by the husband of the senator "he" reportedly snubbed. SHE had to reach across him and two other lawmakers to shake the hand of Kennedy- who extended his to her first. She shook hands with the other two senators but did not reach out to Obama after finishing with Kennedy.
She did not acknowledge him- he did not acknowledge her. Even up- no one made a face or hit anyone. They are both guilty of letting the political process get too personal- both need to remember how to disagree without being disagreeable.

bill   January 29th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Big Whoop Dido!!

I like to see a good competition. It's a part of the process.

To see a smiling, conciliatory Barack would have turned me off. I don't think we have to worry about Hillary being on the VP Ticket, though.

jeff   January 29th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

i hope…with the most sincere of hopes…that one day i too will be able to turn my back on hillary clinton.

Nuh-Nuh-Nuh-no thanks old lady!

BethanyS   January 29th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Do any of you ever wonder why they even bother to report on this type of crap? Do we really care if they didn't greet each other? I don't and if any of you do you're missing the point.

This is another instance of the media taking over our country and injecting their own silliness into things that don't matter to the American public.

Vera Jones   January 29th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

CNN…why are you wasting time with this non-sense. You remind me of an office gossip. This is exactly why the YouTube debates were so popular because it showed real people asking real questions instead of the stupid questions reporters ask! The country is in a recession, unemployment is high, our childrens' toys are filled with lead, our China imported food is tainted and the gov't wants us to eat cloned food…yet CNN reports on an "awkward moment" between 2 senators. Priceless!

Aidyn   January 29th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Obama needs to grow up! How can he unite us if he cannt even act decent towards Hillary Clinton.

Calvin Preddie   January 29th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

I think the story and the picture speak for themselves. They speak to Mr. Obama's good judgment. We should note that Mr. Obama knew about Ms. Clinton's vote on the Iraq war in the Senate, when she campaigned for his election to the Senate; and he knew about that vote when he became a Senator and accepted Senator Clinton as his mentor. His opinion on the war in early 2002 was not actually good judgment, because it was formed without any dissemination or analysis of the evidence, since such evidence was not available to him at that time.

I am reminded of words I read at school many, many years ago, about: "lowliness being young ambition's ladder, whereto the climber upwards turns his face, but once he attains the utmost rung, he then unto the ladder turns his back, scorning the base degrees by which he did ascend". And Mr. Obama has not reached the utmost rung, yet.

J   January 29th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Again, Hillary was fake and Obama was honest about his feelings. Don't know about you guys but I hate it when a person who's been badmouthing you behind your back tries to shake your hand.

CHERYL   January 29th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

AH YES, THE TRUE COLORS COME OUT. THIS SHOULD WAKE PEOPLE UP TO THE FACT THAT BORACK THINKS HE IS ON THE PLAYGROUND!!!!!!!! THIS PROVES THAT HE IS IMMATURE AND NOT READY TO BE PRESIDENT! PART OF BEING PRESIDENT IS TO BE ABLE TO WORK WITH SOMEONE EVEN IF YOU DO NOT CARE FOR THEM. IT TOOK A LOT OF GUTS ON HILLARY'S PART TO EVEN BE IN THE ROOM AFTER EVERY THING THAT WENT ON AGAINST HER YESTERDAY. BUT SHE DID WHAT A PERSON WITH CHARACTER DOES! BORACK JUST TURNED AWAY. SHAME ON HIM! I THINK SOME MINDS MAY CHANGE NOW. PAY ATTENTION TO CHARACTER PEOPLE ! IS THIS WHAT WE WANT ON IMPORTANT ISSUES? SOMEONE WHO ACTS THIS WAY? HILLARY IS A UNITER!!!!!!!!!!!!! SHE HAS MY VOTE!!!!!!!!!!! HILLARY 2008

PW Va   January 29th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

If it was a snub, Hillary got just what she deserved and should be glad it was just a turned back!!! The nasty politics she and her hubby have been displaying on the campaign trail are beyond the pale.

tina   January 29th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

bye bye obama. Hello hillary.Obama acted immaturely.

Think preactically people, Do you think americas like the OPEC Countries??They dont..but they have to smile and respesct them for "OIL"

cara   January 29th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

So, just out of curiosity, did Hillary tap his shoulder and extend her hand, or was she content to ignore him as well?

Pictures are funny– they capture a brief moment in a broader spectrum. I suspect they exchanged words previously, and it would be silly to pretend they were just meeting in that environment for the first time.

Best of luck to both of them.

Joshua   January 29th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

If you ask me both were being immature, speaking works both way's! Clinton could have easily spoken to Obama, and she chose not to so Obama shouldn't be taking all the blame. Beside's who cares if they don't speak I mean they don't even like each other. I don't think either one of them would make a good president! (absolute power corrupts absolutely) King Bush is an excellent example for that statement!

Chris   January 29th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

In response to Kris:

"Obama supporters, just answer this question: If Hillary would have done this to Obama would you have been all over her for it? Of course you would, and please be honest about it."

My answer:

No, because this wouldn't happen in the first place with Obama. Obama is not an opportunist like Hillary striving to overcome rejection.

Obama can lead and Hillary cannot. That's why I appreciate Obama.

US Soldier, Econ/Poli Sci Major   January 29th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Actually, this was very smart, premeditated political stunt by Sen. Clinton. Sen. Obama was trapped because he wouldn't look good no matter what he did.

Consider this: You and your buddies are at a bar and a girl walks up who knows one of them just to say hi. You start to say hi and she gives you the brick wall with an upraised hand and a wide-eyed, 'this-guy-is-a-creep' look. Everyone who is watching laughs.

More or less he did the right thing. Not only would engaging her when she was unwilling to acknowledge him be more submissive than conciliatory, but the only thing that is worse than being frowned at because he ignored her would be getting laughed at because she would have snubbed him.

Besides that why didn't she engage him? Isn't she just as bad if not worse for getting in his face and not saying hi?

And anyways, with how 'Billary' Clinton has been lobbing race-bait and other political Molotov cocktails, I wouldn't want to talk with the hag either.

(FYI: I have always been a huge Bill Clinton fan until very recently. Hillary was my first choice before I read both of Obama's books, so also until recently she had had my full support.)

ron bodin   January 29th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

I am a southerner. I wasn't sure who to support but after seeing Obama's childish display, I am voting for Hillary. Grow up Barack Hussein Obama.

charles   January 29th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Boxers shake hands and come out swinging. Immature and rude

Mike in FXBG   January 29th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

What this article fails to point out is Hillary turning her back on the President and stalked away, deliberately turning her back to him once he came down the aisle.

Hillary may not like George Bush; but she should have the good manners, and the professionlism to respect the president and the Presidency. Once again, this highlights the very contempt that Hillary and Bill have for the office. She is not the person to have in the White House under any circumstances.

Ruth   January 29th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Grace under pressure . . . that's what Hillary embodies. Ready on day 1.

Josh   January 29th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

She was talking to someone else so he moved on. Is he supposed to stand there and wait to shake her hand while she has a conversation with someone else?

Nor Yodl   January 29th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

So much for change, eh? Same old patriarchal nonsense. Jackie O must be rolling in her grave. Had Hillary turned her back on Obama you can bet that not only the media but the spokespersons for the black community would be railing against her as racist. Instead, they will defend his incivility. Take a good look at this picture before you vote for "change."

Matt   January 29th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

"Stone Cold" Steve Austin should campaign for Obama, too.

JAM   January 29th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

If Obama is rude and arrogant now what do you think he will be like if he gets in the White House? And we thought George W. Bush was full of himself! You ain't seen nothing yet!

Matt, Nebraska   January 29th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

CNN feels so desperate when they don't have a leading story about a democrat. This is truly evidence of that.

get truth guy   January 29th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

This guy is not a "uniter" by nature, he could not even face his own party member who has different views, it is all hyper by the media that he is the "uniter" and rep a "future changes". All faked illusion, we'd wake up, not fool by the media. He hide too much his dark side, such as his true religion, his true stand on War, his true view of racial and gendar, he doesn't have his own view of economy and medical plan (all copied from Clinton's), he even has most mess up desk he can not manage clean, how can this guy being betrayed as a "future hope"? Unbelivable!

Cosmic Comedy Queen   January 29th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Hey there is plenty of folks I do not want to talk to either. Not because I don't like them or anything, it is just I have nothing to say. End of statement.

NickNas   January 29th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

FINALLY it is mentioned again that there are PAID Bloggers. It really isn't hard to spot them people. Just look for the ones who take EVERY post and turn it into an I told you so moment from people who REALLY don't know ANYTHING but what they read on the net.

This Blogging thing was a very good Idea but it has just become a tool to instigate people and provides a platform for the pros to manipulate the readers.

If for ONE second any of you think there are not members of every party and every campaign on ALL of these blogs ( not just CNN) pretending to be this or that to advance their candidate you have been made numb from the last 7 years.

( I wonder if this will make it on the board)

Leilani   January 29th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

For those who are backing Hilary, the way the Clintons have acted in the last month, reflects on how they will try to run the country. I used to support the Clintons, but I will not vote for Hilary she has deeply disappointed me and so has her husband. If Barack turned his back to her I can understand why, she and her husband has been playing dirty, they have treated Barack as if he is a Republican and not one of there fellow democrats. Bill and Hilary cannot unite the country. I think most of all Barack is hurt by the obscene things that Hilary and Bill have said about him and he should be. I am tired of dirty politics and I am glad that he is trying to stay above all of this craziness. If you all like how Hilary is running her campaign then you are just as bad as she and it makes me worried that there will never be civility in this country, we will always be stuck in the past. If Edwards or Obama do not win the nomination. I will vote for Mc Cain at least he will not disrespect the white house like Bill and Hilary did before. I think after this nomination I might change to a independent. Bill and Hilary have way to much baggage and drama to run this country.

Roger   January 29th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

It is sometimes in the little things, the glances, the snubs that one's true character is revealed. What I saw last night was a real lady and someone who is not a gentleman. This is the man who will reconcile, who will bring all sides together? Yet he cannot even be cordial to his adversary? Will he do this with world leaders as well? This is personal immaturity that cannot be tolerated at the presidential level. Hillary has what it takes to be a true leader.

please think   January 29th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

I have a question for all of you. I may be wrong, but I have never seen BO place his hand on his heart when all of the other candidates do during the pledge of alligiance. BO What do you really think about this wonderful country? Are you too good to show your love for our country as you think you are too good to offer your hand to a wonderful, intelligent, strong, woman. I think something is not quite right about this man. This may seem small to some of you, but Hilliary has shown us what kind of person she is-LOOK AT HER RECORD! You don't vote for some