January 31, 2008
Posted: 07:54 PM ET
 The Kodak Theatre is also home of the Academy Awards ceremony.
The Kodak Theatre is also home of the Academy Awards ceremony.

We want your real-time reactions to what Obama and Clinton are saying. Do agree or disagree? Who's making the most persuasive arguments? Are they addressing the issues or just being combative? Who's dodging the questions? What would you ask the candidates? Sound off by adding your comment below.

Filed under: CNN Debate


<
Helene   February 2nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

1. Immigration – I agree with H. clinton
Obama when he stated — Oh immigration is not teh cause of unemployement – he is right this is not teh sole cause -HOWEVER this is not what H. clinton said –
That tells me he does not listen, does not understand or distort what people say — Bad sign as far as I am concerned.

2. Health – I agree with H. Clinton
Obama was back tracking on same items — POOR people will NOT buy health insurance if the premiums are lower – SOMETHING else needs to happen. Not al parents will care for their children – I see what many parents of children at the high school my children go to do and do not do for their children.
I woudl even do something else than what H. Clinton is usggesting. Obama is far behind.

3. Iraq war — I agree with H. clinton —
Only fool never chnage their mind.
Intelligent people makes mistake and correct themsleves.
Obama – saying that is right from the start – is scaring. Does it think he always will be right? Thsi is a bad sign.
But then he said that he does not want to surround himself with yes people — Will be interesting whether he can listen to people with different view.

It was great that they were civilized with each other — for me thsi is a MUST for our country — Addressing issues this what we need.
Whether soemone is credible or not should not be their discussion. Thsi needs to be left to other people.
teh question to H.Clinton about her husband – I thought was not fair – Would soemone ask that question to a man! – hmm not sure
Overall H. Clinton is the one that is more realistic about how things work etc..
With regard to dealing with dictators — I am not sure how they will be successuful – They will need to be able to surround themselves by people who undertand what make dictators "tic" and how to bets approach them.

Hayden Berkeley   February 1st, 2008 4:52 pm ET

I agree with Barack Obama's views on health care. I think it is a great plan to mandate health care for children and let adults have a choice of whether or not they have health isurance because children don't know enough to make the decisions for themselves, but adults do, and if they choose not to have insurance, then they have accepted to consequences, you can't just make EVERYBODY buy health insurance like Hillary Clinton's plan, some people can't afford it, and even if they can, maybe they want to use the money for something else. Mandating health insurance for everybody is violating a person's pursuit of happiness as well as the 14th Amendment of life, LIBERTY, and property. You can't make someone pay for something they don't want to pay for, that's not liberty.
As for personality, I just don't think Hillary Clinton is a likable person. I know that you don't vote based on how much you like a person but how much you agree with their issue, but there is something about her that makes me think she cannot handle all of the pressure that comes with becoming president. Something that troubles me is: Is she going to run the country properly, or is she going to have Bill Clinton behind the scene? If so, is that necessarily a good thing?
I'm glad Obama was finally able to really discuss his views on various issues and tells Americans why he should win: not because "he wants change", but because he is a truly a great leader.

Daniel   February 1st, 2008 10:51 am ET

Hallo Americans, especially democrates…well we are following up your interesting campaign.

On the whole, the Democratic Party has gained a lot. Evidently, the democrates look younger, more energetic and fresh compared to the old republicans.

Obama seems to summerise all this well…though Clinton still remains an attractive choice.

jason4hillary   February 1st, 2008 3:52 am ET

go hillary i though she was right on target .obama is not ready yet . he would make a good vice prez,at the most . i like clintion/edwards ticket .now that sounds like a change.hillary08

sniknam   February 1st, 2008 12:05 am ET

I agree; Hillary dodged questions as usual.

MC   January 31st, 2008 11:20 pm ET

Obama clearly won on a number of points. First, his healthcare plan sounded more practical and appealing to America as a whole without the govt mandates. Although she was very knowledgable about the healthcare issue, her plan sounded too unwieldy and impractical.

Second, his vote on Iraq compared with hers and the explanation of its implications on the White House was outstanding. These are important decisions that should not be made in haste without considering the long term consequences. Bottom line is that she made a decision based on political reasons instead of what she thought was right. Obama needs to clearly state that he made a decision not because it was popular but because it was the right thing to do.

Obama made a clear distiction between himself and HRC: His ability to work with other people. We need somebody who can make this government work, not somebody who is going to create a partisan environment. Sen. Obama's comment about inspiring Americans and everybody who works for the federal government to work to make their country better was a huge statement in terms of understanding what the federal government is all about: Helping Americans.

All4Clinton   January 31st, 2008 11:20 pm ET

Obama is certainly very oratorical and charming. He reminds of Bill Clinton when Bill was young. However, this country need a practical and visionary leader. I have seen enough an ideological one in Bush style, and does not want to see another one. There is a fundamental difference between ideological and inspirational. It is going to be extremely challenging to get a country under such kind of condition back on track. With all those bruises that Hillary went through, she is ready and have learned how to deal with partisan. Remember, even though democrats won 2006 elections, this country is still pretty much moving in the old direction. Why? They need a leader who can come up with practical solutions. Not beautiful words.

Sandra Scott   January 31st, 2008 11:20 pm ET

It is evident that Hillary has been well prepared by her team. Her deportment and delivery now emulate Obama.

Edward   January 31st, 2008 11:02 pm ET

It sure is disheartening to read about all the individuals who are going to vote for Obama simply because they want change and not a Bush or Clinton in the White House. In normal times maybe such a change would be appropriate but being idealistic alone does not make one a good candidate much less the best qualified to accomplish the incredibly difficult task at hand, which is to turn our country around. It seems that in these times we need an individual that has a proven track record under similar circumstances and that is Hillary Clinton. Obama is a very likeable individual with a lot of charisma and certainly a great future leader but right here, right now, we need someone who's been there, done that!
Please put the emotions and sentiments aside, think about the huge deficit, the mortgage crisis and the continuous decline of the dollar, issues that affect all of us negatively one way or another. If we do not make the right choice in this election, we could be seeing the end of our economy as we know it and I am not only refering to our government but also as individuals!
Obama supporters, how about Vice President!

Ryan   January 31st, 2008 11:00 pm ET

The debate tonight was so polished. You could tell it was in Hollywood.. And to watch Hillary dodge questions like she does so well, it is scary to hear the critic's say how well she did..Obma cleary did better and would have hoped for more harder question's for Hillary so we could have watched her weasel out from a truefull answer.

Gift   January 31st, 2008 10:57 pm ET

Clinton may know the best way to deliver her not so good case but

Obama had the best content. We all just need to listen and see that he made the best articulate answers. She just has been in the game long enough to know how to say things without being straight but appear to have content.

Its all an act.

Obama is real

Yes we can.

Joe   January 31st, 2008 10:57 pm ET

He kept going negative she kept giving straight answers. He cracked jokes and had good one liners while she answered everything without dodging anything . She won my vote

Warren   January 31st, 2008 10:57 pm ET

Would Hillary even be considered if she had not spent 8 years in the White House.

George   January 31st, 2008 10:57 pm ET

You people have no idea what was really involved in the resolution that idiot Bush turned to his own agenda. Obama, can talk smart but it takes action and Hillary is the best in the race.

Did you all notice that other Kennedys support Senator Hillary Clinton? Teddy is just mad at Bill because Bill wouldn't let Teddy take away his right of free speech!
The whole Teddy/Caroline Kennedy was revenge.

As far as the question someone prior to this comment made of Hillary 'How will she lower costs?" Well, I ask, how will Obama lower costs?

Remember – It is the economy that is the most important now. We will end the war in a few months, but what about the economy – What will these troops be coming home to?

getoutthevote!   January 31st, 2008 10:56 pm ET

I'm with you, Bernard. I mentioned abortion and I got censored. I don't get this. I mentioned Republicans in a much more complimentary way than some people are writing about Hilary and I got censored. I was trying to welcome a social conservative to our party. She described herself that way. I got censored. What's the deal?

David for USA   January 31st, 2008 10:56 pm ET

Does any one notice that the questions were skewed to Clinton. Has if a underline purpose for Clinton to settle her negatives before Super Tuesday. If any thing worth our consideration tonight is the number of questions posed to Obama which is significantly less that those to Clinton? Even the questions posed to Obama involved in most part, clearing the air for Clinton.

The stage was clearly set for Clinton by CNN. And Wolf Blitzer is clearly seen carrying forth their agenda.

Obama had to politely ask Wolf to speed it up and get to the other issues.

And please remember. No question was ask to Obama from the emails that were read. All went to Clinton. Do you really think no one in America had a question for Obama. And the fact was there was only two people in the debate.

They did not even give Obama a chance to respond to her comment about cleaning up after Bush. They speedily went to commercial.

This is injustice.

Jenna   January 31st, 2008 10:55 pm ET

AHMED no disrespect but i want health care and someone who can run the country i am not voting for someone to make me FEEL GOOD or LIFT my spirits…..they have medication for that LOL I want someone who knows what SHE IS DOING that person is Hillary Clinton. I am 52 years old and don't have time in my life to wait for OBAMA to learn the ropes of washington.

Sis   January 31st, 2008 10:55 pm ET

How many times have we heard hind sight is 20/20….Of course if we could all predict the outcome consequence of every decision we have made…we would be god like……Well….that being said weakens Barack's comment of "Being Right on day one"….now who can? That would be narcissistic to think one can be right on every decision…..So, Barack needs to review some of his decisions that resulted in negative consequences,. He has made them! I will not support someone who portrays that on day one he is Right! Plus one of his other comments was having staff in his white house that will be able to help him acknowledge he is not always right……Wow! He will need a 24 hr counselor for that!

Rose   January 31st, 2008 10:55 pm ET

Obama/Clinton ticket !! Yeah Remember Kennedy/Johnson. That was a winning ticket. Change Good for America. Old/Young seems the same old story Bush/Quail amost laughable.

Dana   January 31st, 2008 10:53 pm ET

NO MORE Clinton's…NEED Change? Go Obama!

Obama/Edward is the ticket!

billrieken   January 31st, 2008 10:53 pm ET

The Senate was put in a very awkward position in the Fall of 2002 — what if they had voted "no" to the use of force? Saddam Hussein would have laughed at George Bush's threat of military action … at least that was the phoney argument the Bush administration was making at the time (as I recall).

juanita griffin   January 31st, 2008 10:53 pm ET

I think Hillary gets my vote. I have finally decided. GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dennis   January 31st, 2008 10:53 pm ET

What a great debate between two excellent candidates. The biggest problem is Wolf. With all the great reporters at CNN I think you could have found a better moderator.

Amnesty is Treason   January 31st, 2008 10:52 pm ET

it baffles me as to how all you folk could vote for a treasonous candidate that sell's out their own citizens so they and their corporate buddies can get richer; pure stupidity at its best!

Ayanna   January 31st, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Hillary wants manditory health care weather you can afford it or not. That sounds more like a universal health SCARE. She’s of the same thought as Otto Von Bismark who initiated the mandatory health care system in Germany in 1880. He held conservative monarchial views. Health insurance cannot be like manditory car insurance. At least if you can't afford car insurance you can get rid of your car.

Obama supports a public insurance system more similar to Canada which allows individuals to choose between the new public insurance program or from among private insurance plans that meet certain coverage standards.” His plan is closer to getting health care in the right direction. America should have gotten started on universal health care years ago and she would not be in the mess that she’s in right now.

Nancy   January 31st, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Looking at these as the Democratic choices for President of America is quite frightening. Where do either of them come to be able to handle the enormous pressures and resopnsibility that it takes to be a true leader of the supposed strongest and most powerful nation in the world??? A leader must have vision, strength of charachter, integrity, and true self sacrifice for his nation….Cut me a break…Neither of these make the grade…

rka   January 31st, 2008 10:52 pm ET

I hope that question leading to one Clinton clean up after Bush line was a set up.
She has used that line before. Did they tee one up for her?

Andria   January 31st, 2008 10:52 pm ET

What is with a Hollywood audience? I think it makes a mockery out of a presidential debate to discuss America's hardships in front of an audience of people who don't live in the 'real' world. Poor to no thought was given to this venue.

Jeff   January 31st, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton. Give me a break. With over 250 million people in the United States, can't we elect someone not named Bush or Clinton. Go Obama!

A. Cancela   January 31st, 2008 10:51 pm ET

When I saw both candidates on the CNN debate tonight I felt like I was looking at our next President, and Vice-President. In my opinion, a Clinton-Obama ticket is definitely the winning ticket for the upcoming election.

Both candidates seem to have similar platforms, but even their differences seem to complment each other. Their election would be the epitomy of the "checks and balances" that our country is supposed to have been built upon. Clinton represents the experience needed for the United States to regain a sound footing globally, and Obama represents the unity needed to get there.

I am confident that if these two powerhouses decided to come together it would be a win-win situation for this country. It would mean that America would finally have a voice in the White House, and thereby ensure that the issues and needs of this country would actually be met.

Gricelda   January 31st, 2008 10:51 pm ET

Obama clearly is more focused on the real issues at hand. Clinton is more focused on what she has done in the past than what needs to be done in the future!

They both did a great job on putting the differences a side and letting people see beyond the bickering and focus on the elections.

The Truth   January 31st, 2008 10:51 pm ET

I loved it. I'm proud to be a Democrat and support Hillary 100%..but I know after tonight, that no matter who wins the nomination I will cast my vote for the democratic candidate in the presidential election.

Van Guiragossian   January 31st, 2008 10:51 pm ET

I was very impressed with both Senator Clinton and Senator Obama in their answers of solving the problems of our country. They both understand the problems we are facing and I believe that either one of them is capable to solve the problems we are facing. I believe they will make a great team and hopefully they will run as "President and Vice President " Team. They will unite the country and make the critical decisions for our nation.

Van Guiragossian

MARY ALTORFER   January 31st, 2008 10:51 pm ET

I'm sick of listening to that pompous hypocrite Bill Bennett commenting on the debate and insisting that Hillary Clinton won. As a Republican, he would like nothing better than to run against Hillary Clinton. Go Obama!

Alex   January 31st, 2008 10:51 pm ET

Obama was awesome when speaking about Iraq. Hillary kept saying she voted for inspectors, which is NOT TRUE. It was an authorization of war and she knew exactly what she was voting for. The inspectors comment is simply a cover up to her mistake in voting for war. Why can't she admit she made a mistake like Edwards did?

GO OBAMA

B Swiader   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

For the debate, I think they both wanted to show unity and get away from the past few days picture and spouse remarks. Both it seems wanted to express their pluses and points of view rather that talk about the other perceived negatives.

I think they both did a good job in defending what they stood for but thought they both could have contered just a little harder of their differences. I thought out of the two, Barack did better with that.

Barack would have the edge, I believe when going against the Republicans on Iraq. (because of his opposition) This will end up being one of the hard differences between parties and should be interesting when it's party vs party.

I think either would make a great leader for the country and it would be something if it made sense to see both on the final ticket for the Democratic nomination as Pres and VP. Should that happen, I don't think the Republicans have a combination that could withstand them.

I think it's great that other countries have the opportunity to see our process either on airwaves, or through the net and am always curious to what they think about all this.

sheryl rogel   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

I do not want another Clinton in the White House. If we do return to the Clinton good years, we will return to a time when in reality that good life was bought on credit cards. Wages did not match our bills at that time and certainly do not presently as wages still have not increased to match the increases of housing, food, health care, and gas costs. And we are now limited in our access to credit. Check it out!

Equality   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

I think CNN was very partial in hosting the Debate tonight! They are controlling who gets more coverage, basically have been dictating and spinning this thing! The are partly to blame why some canidates are not in this thing. Now that Edwards is out they are spinning towards one Candidate.

One more comment! It was unnecessary for Hillary to specify the race of the gentlemen in Atlanta in her example of immigration. IT WAS DIVISIVE especially on that topic and it turned me off! No other candidate has done that! It was very low and that has defined has come to define the Clintons.

Maribel- FOR HILLARY   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

Way to go HILLARY!! You are the woman for 08.

ALL LATINOS IN TEXAS FOR HILLARY!!!

Bob   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

I prefer the views of Barack Obama overall… he seems more genuine and sincere for the concerns of other people. I feel he is more believable, and can bring all people together for changes for the greater good.

Shelley   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

You wanted to know that if Obama could go toe–toe with Clinton (meaning Hillary) ? Well, I'm confident that he gave us the details on why he is clearly the better candidate! He did a great job of explaining his proposed healthcare plan. As a disabled, 38 year old female and mother of 4 I am more confident in his haealthcare plan than Hillary's plan. Obama also, proved his point that her so-called "experience " does not necessarily prove that she will ultimately do what are the right things for America! Thanks to Bush we can't afford any more blunders based upon her kind of "experience."

macia   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

the debate was not done to get a winner but to allow the candidates to air out their policy proposal to the american people. for those young and inspired obama voters out there, look to substance and talk to grown ups about the facts of life then you will be filtering over all that was said and voting for someone who can get the job done properyly, istead of trying to pick a winner. if you want a movie star go to hollywood. the choices you make today will shape many lives tommorrow. so please stop the nonsence and start asking real questions. hillary was clearly more knowledgeable.

as for wolf, the media has always been biased agianst Hill so his actions and the questions from politico(the guy is always on cnn) was all desingned to try to give obama an edge. he tried to start a problem but she rose above that .
the media wants to pick our president like they picked the last one and look what it got us into

Jimmy O   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

If Integrity, honesty, ethical behavior matters to you. The reject the scandals of the Clintons. Vote to prevent Hillary and her spouse from returning to WH. America deserves better.

Marie7   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

Clinton/Obama if ever, and not the other way around. Obama can be president in 8 more years, and by then he will have the experience he really does need to do this incredibly import job.

I am SO SICK OF THE MEDIA SLAMMING HILLARY AND BILL CLINTON. YOU ARE ALL SO OBVIOUSLY AGAINST BOTH OF THEM.

The media has been unfair to Hillary and Bill Clinton ever since this race began.

Why don't you guys dig more into Obama's life and put him under the microscope the way the Clinton's have been?

Everyone I know is sick of the unfair bias of the media against Hillary.

Wise up newscasters, and all media people.

Jayhawk34   January 31st, 2008 10:50 pm ET

Elizabeth—you blame Bush for the war, but fail to acknowledge the BALANCE OF POWERS???

Bernard (Virginia)   January 31st, 2008 10:49 pm ET

Their healthcare plans are virtually the same…how can you say Sen Clinton's plan is "superior"?

Terry   January 31st, 2008 10:49 pm ET

Why doesn't any one ever ask her why we should believe that her family won't disgrace our white house and our country the way it did before…and why should we put them back in it. If we get Hillary…we get Bill…been there…done that…don't want it again.

BG from chicago   January 31st, 2008 10:49 pm ET

wow a great debate. but there were a lot of flaws in their health care plans i picked out that i wish cnn had asked about… darn

Sonali   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Thank you Bill Bennet,

For saying the truth that she won the debate!

Also I today the spin masters are bit more neutral and I am grateful for that.

Thank you CNN

Connie L   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

If the Democrats want to win…pick Hillary…..She has definitely outsmarted Barack Obama….I think he can be in the Cabinet or maybe something else…..HILLARY WON TONIGHT!!!!!

Shauna   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

CALIFORNIA 4 BARACK OBAMA!!!!

I agree with the comment that was posed tonight-we have had the Bush/Clinton families in office for more than a decade. IT IS TIME FOR A REEAAL CHANGE!!! Our country is hoping and ready for something new and different that will clean up all of this rhetoric and covert manipulations from the so-called presedental elects who were "for the people".

Andrea Lipstein   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Hillary answers the questions specifically with details; Obama doesn't. When Obama is pushed to answer specifically, he fumbles, mumbles, and then only afterwards will only reiterate what Hillary has said. He also tried the 'one upmanship', by straining his head, while seated, to be higher than Hillary. He looked like a giraffe.

Sandra Scott   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

January 31, 2008 10:42 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
January 31, 2008 10:28 pm ET

It is evident that Hillary has been well prepared by her team. Her deportment, delivery, and chosen leadership examples are now taken from the Obama handbook. Barack, however, continues to present his consistent message…knowledgeable leadership based upon character is needed in America.

Independant Woman   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

The Clintons cant clean up anything till they clean up their own history.

Scot J   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

after reading so many of these comments…….I can't believe that there are so many IDIOTS in this country!!! If either of these two get elected we will ALL have to move to Mexico! They will never be able to get any Congress to do the things that they promise! They are sooooooo far out of reality. Why don't we try to reduce the medical and insurance costs by stopping the laywers from collecting millions of dollars for all of the flagerant lawsuits over such redicules issues or for someone that scratches his elbow when he trips on his own shoe lace while on someone elses property and the like……the doctors insurance would drop 50 K per year for every Dr. That would be a good start. Nothing good will come to our country if either of them get elected!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JR   January 31st, 2008 10:48 pm ET

Great job by both of them. Even though Hillary spoke eloquently about all the health care and immigration, Obama put a dagger in her when they debated over Iraq!

Obama won……

Elizabeth   January 31st, 2008 10:47 pm ET

Hilary Clinton obviously won!!!

Jimmy O   January 31st, 2008 10:47 pm ET

Vote McCain. Vote Romney. Vote Obama. Reject the Clinton-Bush dynasty. We do not have a monarchy system of government

Ahmed Shaheed   January 31st, 2008 10:47 pm ET

I think both of candidates are extremely Intelligent. But in this moment we do not want to go back to another Clinton presidency because even though they have not done badly during their administration, they were partisan. I beleive to solve all the problmes we faced we need someone who can lift our spirits. And for me this person is at this moment Barack Obama

Lee   January 31st, 2008 10:46 pm ET

Obama showed his true colors by repeatedly trying to go negative. Clinton took the high ground and would not join in. Hillary Will Be the Next President. She Got My Vote.

steve   January 31st, 2008 10:45 pm ET

All in all I think both candidates look and sound presidential. Historic debate, a great step forward for our country. I am proud to be a Democrat, and will happily cast my vote for Barack Obama.

Elizabeth   January 31st, 2008 10:45 pm ET

I think that Obama's comment about making right decisions from the first day was wrong. I think that when Clinton voted for the war she wasn't the one getting the info directly and she wasn't the one making the final decision. There is a difference between being in the senate and making decisions as the president.

Joan   January 31st, 2008 10:45 pm ET

Hillary's health proposal is definitely superior. Like she said, if you don't aim for universal healthcare, you won't get it.

Of course cost is an issue but Americans are fed up with that excuse. They realize that if many other countries can afford it, so can we.

It's being said that 18% of American's top issue this year will be healthcare. If that's true, "Please welcome, President Hillary Rodham Clinton"!

Bernard (Virginia)   January 31st, 2008 10:44 pm ET

I love Obama, I love Clinton…and I love kittens too! Are these the only kinds of comments you're allowing? Why do you keep censoring my comment on partisan politics?

Joe Scheidler   January 31st, 2008 10:44 pm ET

With both candidates mentioning global warming in their opening statements, I was looking forward to their views on that issue. Could the lack of climate-related questions from CNN reporters have anything to do with the coal industry being a major sponsor of the telecast? Does CNN bow to corporate influence?

John   January 31st, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Obama was clearly more presidential. Outstanding debate for CNN and particularly Obama !!!

Isabella NYC   January 31st, 2008 10:40 pm ET

i think that hillary did a beautiful job and was very smart and well spoken and strong.

obama seems nice but very naive, not ready. it would be v wonderful to have a brilliant woman in the White House!! i will vote now for HILLARY after watching this whole debate.

DREAM TEAM = yes!
hillary for president! obama for vp!

great job to them both! nice to see a POSITIVE debate for a change!

Malcolm MacLeod   January 31st, 2008 10:39 pm ET

I feel that Obama won, but not until the last question.

Sharon   January 31st, 2008 10:37 pm ET

I am so very proud to be a Democrat and hear our candidates speak to our common core values respectfully and without rancor. Certainly there are differences between the candidates, but tonight I feel confident that whoever is elected will articulate a progressive vision that will lead us, as a nation into a new and better future! I will be voting for Barak Obama, primarily because I believe that as a less divisive figure, he is better able to be elected to the presidency and inspire our citizens and Congress to work together toward the achievement of common goals.

Ann   January 31st, 2008 10:35 pm ET

Obama did a better job than I suspected he might. Hillary is "yesterday" and Barak seems to be "tomorrow."
Hillary brings too much baggage with her. Let American begin fresh.
I don't see an Obama/Hillary ticket as Hillary would not be content to be in the lower role.

JEC   January 31st, 2008 10:34 pm ET

How's Obama inspirational or the new JFK? It is a good time to bring back what was said in a vicepresident's debate some years back. Obama, you are no JFK! Why are people so worried about appearances? She look this, he looks that. Who cares! Listen to the message, UNDERSTAND IT, and stop the BS that has driven the wrong people to the White House.

SabinaDu   January 31st, 2008 10:34 pm ET

WOW – Wolff Blitzer sure had a lot of chutzpah asking Clinton if she was "naive" in voting for the resolution. How many of the DOCUMENTED 935 lies that the Bush Administration planted in the lead up to the Iraq War did Wolf Blitzer present as "truth news" – not doing HIS job as a journalist to research whether it was the truth? Seems to me HE was worse than "naive". Clinton made her point – had she been President, there would be no Iraq War. I believe that. And Obama may have been correct about what a bad idea the war was, but so what? It did not stop the war, did it?

Cormier   January 31st, 2008 10:33 pm ET

I never thought that in my life time I would see a black man and a women of any ethnicity actually have a chance to be the President of this country. Both are excellent candidates but Hillary is my chose. Barrack is my grandchilderens hope, but today Hillary is my reality for what this country needs.

David Sanocki   January 31st, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Congratulations to both of the candidates for sticking to the issues and focusing less on bickering. However, shame on Wolff Blitzer for trying to instigate fights constantly throughout the debate. That was really low.

Bill Brooks   January 31st, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Tweedle Dee and Tweedle DUM!!!

Helen   January 31st, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Good job Obama; We don't need another Clinton to cleanup after the Bush. Who is going to cleanup after the Clinton. Clinton years in the White House was not pure.

DW   January 31st, 2008 10:30 pm ET

wonderful debate; still believe Clinton talks substance whereas Obama is still formulating; listening to pundits after the debate too many are saying "What Obama means . . . " whereas with Clinton they talk about her solutions, her ideas, her plans for the future . . .

personally I would like a Clinton/Edwards ticket or a Clinton/Obama ticket which would then groom Obama for his presidential run in EIGHT years!

coloredgirl   January 31st, 2008 10:30 pm ET

accountability /he/brings

Chris   January 31st, 2008 10:30 pm ET

To the above comment that people will change their minds once they get in the voting booth as a reason to not support Obama is only perpetuating the blatant racism that some people try to insert into American politics. Many people realize that he has vision, eloquence and the leadership skills so desperately needed to unite this country. He will bring the Congress together and get things done. Hillary is too divisive. The Republicans will do everything in their power to make sure she does not win.

Lisa   January 31st, 2008 10:30 pm ET

I hope that those Americans with experience and who have worked hard come out to vote and support the candidate who will move this country ahead, not just the candidate who can motivate an audience. It's wonderful that younger voters are engaging in the American democratic process that many of us have fought very hard for as a right. I hope the media don't count out the millions of us who grew up in the 70's and 80's and are at home with family, children and parents we are taking care of, and not out there holding up signs and being physically counted or having the time to engage comments on the Internet.

mike   January 31st, 2008 10:30 pm ET

God bless us all. Who ever wins this contest needs to know this my be
the last chance to get it right. The country is in a mess and women
as a rule clean house better than men. Good luck Hillary

C. Sue Fettig   January 31st, 2008 10:29 pm ET

I think I've finally made my final decision to support Senator Clinton. I couldn't quit smiling tonight. I was so proud to be a female. Some of the greatest leaders in the world have been female, I think she will be one of the greatest too.

Anthony Herrick   January 31st, 2008 10:29 pm ET

CNN, I am watching your after the debate commentary, and you have the same old people analyzing it. If a true change is to take place shouldn't you have a true representation of the American public?

Ahmed Ahmed   January 31st, 2008 10:29 pm ET

I feel tonights debate went in favor of Senator Obama. I fell that he has the best chance of winning the national election due to the blunt fact that Hillary wont be able to hang under the pressure of those right wing conservatives. Tonight was another example of why i feel Obama is most qualified. We will all have to wait until super Tuesday to wait and see how nature takes it course.

Constance   January 31st, 2008 10:29 pm ET

This is a historic debate, and year for this nation. And I was moved to my feet multiple times. It was great to have this opportunity to focus real attention to both candidates, and to see the strength of the Democratic Party Obama and Clinton represent – Actually for once, I feel that the Democratic Party represents the America I want.

Interestingly, I have moved from a very strong Obama supporter to a growing respect, appreciation and trust in Hillary. I am so glad that I feel confident about both because whoever wins I am totally behind.

Both have their strengths – Hillary is great at specifics, clear communication of her plans, policies, knowledge. Obama is great at speeches, being 'likeable' which is important in bringing people together across parties, priorities, perspectives, bringing about a 'new face', change, inspiration, "character".

I think though Hillary edged Obama in this debate. Mainly, she did good by addressing the questions and the audience as if she was one on one which is her strength, to make herself more appealing and accessible – that in combo with her debating skills and ability to communicate specifics gave her a slight edge.

So I guess now I am still an Obama supporter but wouldn't mind if Hillary won.

Joy   January 31st, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Clearly Obama won the debate. He has my vote!

celvan   January 31st, 2008 10:27 pm ET

Finally a non bickering debate. I still have not heard from any of the candidates how they will address some specific issues facing rural America. The rush to increase ethanol production may have raised corn prices, but cattle farmers are suffering. As prices go up at the supermarket, cattle prices for farmers are down. Add to that potential alternative energy mandates and I am worried. I am pro alternative energy, but millions of us live in rural america and there is no such thing as public transportation. The increased gas prices are are effecting farmers and the general rural population plus increasing food costs at the grocery store.
I would like one of the candidates to address these issues.

Dustin   January 31st, 2008 10:27 pm ET

Despite of the booing on the "So you're saying you were naive in authorizing Bush's war" she made an awesome admittance. She said – I did "due diligence and investigation" in making that decision, but then admitted "taken on face value" it was an authorization for inspections and unfortunately that wasn't the case. That's the closest thing to an "I made a huge mistake in judgement" (that Obama capitalized on wonderfully) that a politician — and presidential candidate — may ever come close to.

Aries Girl   January 31st, 2008 10:27 pm ET

Overall, I think the topic of immigration and the Iraq war catapulted Obama…leaving Hillary in the dust. She might have gotten my vote if she would have just admitted that she made a "mistake" voting for the Iraq War. Why is it so hard to admit that she was WRONG???? It takes a big person to admit when they are wrong and she refuses to do so every time someone brings that up. How is she going to handle something like that when she actually does make a bad decision? Will she admit that she was wrong in doing so or just tap dance her way around the situation? The Iraq War is a huge topic for me because I didn't agree with the war from day one…AND I am an Army Veteran, AND because my husband, who is currently on Active Duty AND on his second deployment in support of this war. If we were to go to war, it should have been with the "real criminals" behind 9-11!

CitizenUSA   January 31st, 2008 10:26 pm ET

Thank you for addressing the "dream ticket" comment during the live debate. You are certainly the network for and of the people.

Pat Kosack   January 31st, 2008 10:26 pm ET

I thought the debate was wonderful. I did not squirm because the candidates were at each others throats. They were civil and polite to each other, many times nodding their heads in agreement to something that the other said. This was a thrilling confrontation and actually an historic moment.

Lenny DellaRocca   January 31st, 2008 10:26 pm ET

It was the best debate of all so far. I believe Obama won however. The idea of having the "dream ticket" took me by surprise in that it did not seem like it was so far fetched. Wow!

Chicago Mike   January 31st, 2008 10:24 pm ET

GREAT debate!! Loved the civility. Loved the focus on the issues.

Gotta give it to Hillary – she knows how to handle a debate like a future President should. Obama is from Illinois but I can't support him just bc of that. He is not ready, too young and naive. What is up with that STUTTER? That got annoying FAST. He seems easily unhinged. This is just a debate – how would he handle being in the Oval Office? Hmmm….no.

Everyone in this country was FOR the war back when Iraq happened. Get real people. I distinctly remember going to several stores trying to find a US Flag to put up on the big day and all stores were SOLD OUT. That was NOT a coincidence. Everybody got bilked. We and Hillary were lied to and told there were WMD's and there were not. You cannot go back now and blame her for something she was lied to about. Get real with yourselves and remember how you and people around you acted when you heard that we were striking Iraq. The only ppl against Iraq then were hardcore pot smoking hippies and to say any different is a lie.

Hillary rocked it. GREAT to see both a woman and a black man up there as our last 2 nominees – wow how times have CHANGED.

JOSEPH   January 31st, 2008 10:24 pm ET

You know what I find really amusing is that all of the Hillary supporters are glad to see the two candidates getting along tonight, thats because they secretly feel so dirty and low down from all of the dirty politicking that Hillary and her husband have done throughout. They all feel so guilty :) !! lol Its great….come to the good side of the force guys it's not too late stop supporting the evil empire of Darth Vader and support the rebel alliance of Luke skywalker Obama :) It's not too late THERE IS MUCH GOOD IN YOU STILL I SEE as Yoda would say.

viki   January 31st, 2008 10:24 pm ET

I think they both faired well….my faith is in Obama. His actions have proven him to be a man of clear judgment and vision. Opposing the Iraq war, the most self-destructive event in our nation's history. Obama has all the qualities that George W. Bush lacks; qualities that are crucial for a leader our great nation to have.

Steve   January 31st, 2008 10:24 pm ET

Why are three of CNN's post-debate pundits former Clinton administration officials? That suggests pretty blatant bias which was not clearly disclosed.

Mike   January 31st, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Obama won the debate at our house. His honest, clear and precise answers reveal a great thinker. We thought Hillary talked too much like a seasoned politician, always looking for the answer that turns off the least number of people.

sugar   January 31st, 2008 10:23 pm ET

good job OBAMA

Joy   January 31st, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Hillary clearly won this debate…. I was not going to vote for her but after tonight I may change my mind.

MattB   January 31st, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Clinton's vote to authorize the war was based on bad intelligence from the Bush Administration and their hidden agenda. The longer you serve in office, the more heavily scrutinized you are because you have voted on more issues and no one is right 100% of the time.

Christy   January 31st, 2008 10:23 pm ET

This debate was very interesting. I actually liked how there werent fighting with eachother because thats not what its all about. Its about the issues. Im all for BARACK OBAMA and he did the best overall. Well done Obama.

Deborah   January 31st, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Impressive, dignified debate between two intellectual giants.

The choice is difficult between the two, but its not a difficult choice between the parties. This is the year of the democrats.

The Hulk   January 31st, 2008 10:22 pm ET

IT'S OK TO VOTE HILLARY… I WILL!!

Casey...Bahgdad   January 31st, 2008 10:22 pm ET

This was easily the most substantive and civil debate. Both candidates came well prepared and laid out their cases for the voters with specific detail on the issues.

Wayne   January 31st, 2008 10:21 pm ET

The best line of the night goes to Obama. When he stated that Romney was not getting a very good return on his money, when asked about his lack of experence in running a business.

Nicole   January 31st, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Why weren't there any questions about energy? This is an extremely important issue that should be addresses at every debate. I want to know if the influential coal industry in Illinois is the source of Obama's backing of coal energy, whcih is no better than oil.

Lifelong Dem from AR   January 31st, 2008 10:21 pm ET

The question of how President Hillary would "handle" her spouse, the former President, was sexist, inappropriate, and irrelevant. Shame on Wolf Blitzer! CNN should fire him. Instead of recognizing the benefit of having a former President as the spouse of the President, reporters cannot give up the idea that Bill will really be running the country. No person would put up with the process of seeking public office at the highest level to hand over control to another person – not even a spouse!

Karen   January 31st, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I do hope that the dems win in November no matter what. I think it would be fabulous to have a Hillary/Obama ticket. Obama still seems too wet behind the ears. However, his inspiration has changed so much. I am so glad the young people (our future) are engaged. I believe Obama has done that for the dems. However, I would still prefer Hillary to be the winner. I truly believe she would do a better job at "leading" change.

Carl   January 31st, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I thought the debate was great. And Hillary was great. Hillary would make a much better President than Obama because she's been first lady for 8 years under Bill Clinton when he was President, and this gives her an advantage over Obama due to her knowledge and experience on how the White House works. And it is time for the U.S. to have its first female U.S. President in U.S. history. Go Hillary all the way to the White House when she will be sworn in as our next President in January 2009!!!!!!!

s. walker   January 31st, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I'm very glad they were not sniping at each other and addressed the issues. I would have turned it off if the started that crap. I believe they both had good ideas in certain areas. I still know who I would vote for in primaries if my state would allow independents to vote in Democratic primary. I would like to see Obama in the White House, he seems level headed and a fresh approach. I especially like the stance about talking to foreign heads of state even if they don't share our ideal or even like us.

Sonali   January 31st, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Go Hillary GO!

Obama stutters and forgets words… He can only delivere speeches given to him by writers. Hillary is extremely thorough and is brilliant. But I am sure the spin machines at CNN are going to spin everything in Obama's favor.

I am for Clinton all the way!!!

Mark Manz   January 31st, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I was unsure about both, but now I must say I am going to send ballot tomorrow and vote for clinton. there was about 30 of us watching at work and all but one are now voting for Clinton.

Fox   January 31st, 2008 10:18 pm ET

OBAMA 4 Prez!!!!! In my opinion he CLEARLY won the debate tonight!!!!

GO Obama! GO Obama!! Go Obama!! Go Obama!! Go Obama!!

christy   January 31st, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Vincent NY, amen. They blocked my comments too. There goes free speech. All I said essentially was the we can't trust Clinton nor most politicians, but with Barack you really get the sense that he believes in being as truthful with us as is reasonable within the political reality. And that the Presidency requires intelligent, careful inspiration, not dogmatic bureaucracy.

Barack/Edwards 2008

Eileen Roth   January 31st, 2008 10:18 pm ET

At this point, I wish I could vote for both.

Patty   January 31st, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I am a registered republican in California. Actually, I am a Romney fan. I wish I could re-register as a democrat before the primary. I would like to vote for Sen. Obama. Not because I think he is the best option; because Hillary scares me to death.

cimmerian   January 31st, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Polite, how he helped her with her chair.

Carrie Ann   January 31st, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I miss John Edwards, but will support either of the candidates. I agree that with either candidate we are looking at a step up from the disaster of an administration that we have now.

One question though – does anyone care about the environment? I am getting tired of my most important issue being flat out ignored. Our solutions to our environmental challenges are our ticket to a new American Era – it's so obvious…at least to me.

Jason   January 31st, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Awesome!!!
It started a lot like a prize fight. Lots of hype. Expectaions of a hard fought battle.
A few less elbows than I expected, but lots of substance. I enjoyed it very much.

Maureen   January 31st, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I agree Courtney. Spouse control was such a stupid question.!!!

curious onlooker   January 31st, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Both are discussing the need for change. Why hasn't this changed happened already like so many Democrats stated would happen when they took both houses? I don't understand why you would tell the enemy when you're pull the troops out? Everyone can see this debate and can plan if either gets elected how to carry out attacks or lay low until we are gone. I don't care what position we each have, I think a known deadline is a trap.

YC Cheung   January 31st, 2008 10:14 pm ET

My impression of Hillary Clinton is that, like Bill Clinton, she always moves to the center on most issues (like Iraq and Immigration) in anticipation of future elections, moves to the left during Democratic primary elections and then to the center during general elections. I don't know which is the real Hillary Clinton. On the other hand, I feel that Obama is honest, more straight forward and genuine.

YC Cheung

beatrice   January 31st, 2008 10:12 pm ET

I like the debates, it was refreshing to see both Obama and Hillary talking about the issues without attacking each other. I support Obama. Both candidates clearly talked specifically about issues iraq war, economy, health care.

Courtney   January 31st, 2008 10:12 pm ET

Since when did "spouse control" become a part of political discussion? Very, very stupid.

NYer for Obama   January 31st, 2008 10:11 pm ET

Sen Obama gives the new generation of voters reason to go to the polls as he has proven. He wins Independents and disaffected Republicans. This, ladies and gentlemen, is a recipe for victory in November, Dont throw it away.

Emmanuel   January 31st, 2008 10:10 pm ET

HIllary was amazing I wish her to be Prez, Obama vice prez

Ed   January 31st, 2008 10:10 pm ET

It will take two Clinton's to clean up after this Bush. Hillary/Obama rocks.

Leigh Ann   January 31st, 2008 10:10 pm ET

Overall, Obama was polished, poised, inspiring, commanding, genuine, unwavering, and clear. Those are the qualities I desperately want in my next president. Qualilties that have been missing for 8 years. Obama is my choice for president because he shows me that we can be the country we once were, and even better-through struggle, but coming out victorious.

God Bless Bush   January 31st, 2008 10:10 pm ET

What a joke CNN- are you afraid to post my comments? TRUE SCARED LIBS
Guess that's why the Right is Right! Goodnight and my condolences in the general election.

Joshua-Amir   January 31st, 2008 10:10 pm ET

Obama really made a clear contrast between the two of them. He clearly represent "Citizenship, Leadership, and Schloarship"!

Ken   January 31st, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Clinton has been "schooled" by the best (Clinton ex-staff, etc.) to give the most politically "proper" responses and she parrots this advice not her true personal commitment – she has none – none which is constructed to win the nomination. She is ethically bankrupt. She is a corporate mouthpiece.

Obama, I believe, is real, walking the fine line between what the "average" American wants to hear vs. what reality and history show is the only proper course. He, too, has been "schooled" but does not, nor does not want I think, the same cadre of counselors available to Clinton.

Joe   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Well you have to love Democracy. Where else can one voice their opinions without fear, oh wait maybe Bush is monitoring what we are all saying

alfred placeres   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Hillary's got the right stuff and can hold her own with anyone.

Yann   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

It was a great debate in the beginning and I did like both of them. But after the first interruption, it seems that most of the questions were for Hillary Clinton…I felt it unfair…

PG   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Hillary is the most qualified by far. Obama needs more time. She is very knowledgeable and extremely intelligent and has a good grasp of every aspect needed to be President. The best line tonight was from Hillary Clinton,..
"It took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush and it will take another Clinton to clean up this mess from this Bush."

I would vote for her without hesitation. Would like to see Obama run for VP with her.

renee   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Wow. History was just made. Both were great. Beat any of the Republicans hands down. Pulling for Hillary, but will endorse whoever gets the ticket.

Marshall from TN   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Each of them played fair and by the rules. While Hillary seemed fired up and primed, she fed a lot of crap to the audience to get their applause. Obama on the other hand came prepared with more concrete answers to the tough questions while being mild mannered. Neither of them showed that they wanted to be panted as the "bad guy" by the media. To me though, he showed more leader-like qualities to me than Hilary did tonight. BOT WERE EXTREMELY POLITE. Not too much fun to watch, but very informative all the same. Obama to me wins a placid, political chess match of words and wisdom and as a independent undecided voter, if asked to vote today, I wold cast my ballot for Obama. And yes, I do know his middle name is Hussein.

Ralph Lowry   January 31st, 2008 10:08 pm ET

A very civil, very intelligent debate; two very impressive and articulate personalities. A highlight for me was the audience's booing of Wolf Blitzer's inane question regarding Hillary's supposed naivete.

billrieken   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

I loved the economy and the balanced federal budget during the first Clinton administration and I felt very much the same way about the Clinton administration as II did during the Kennedy years in the White House … hopeful about the country heading in the right direction. Having Bill Clinton as a very close adviser in the White House to the next president is a definite plus in my book!

Canada   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Obama was right on all issues!

L. West   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

On the healthcare issue, there is some confusion. Hillary Clinton's mandate does not mean the government will pay for your health care. Universal health care in other countries is subsidized or paid for entirely by the country. Not so in America. Here we go with the war on words. Obama is being more honest here. IF you cannot afford insurance you cannot pay for it. If it is mandated, the Government says you must have it, even if you can't afford to pay for it. It will be against the law not to have it. But they won't be paying for it. IF you don't have a job or don't make enough and can't afford it, you'll be penalized. They will fine you , penalize you, attach your wages to pay for MANDATED health care. If they do that, then who is in control of your wallet? That health care payment you can't afford, which gets automatically deducted from your check, could be the reason you can't pay your rent, or childcare or food. Mandate is not the word. Affordability is the word. Obama has the right plan and not just words that sound right.

LeRose   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Both candidates did a good job but Clinton is more qualified and will better fend off the Republican attack machine. (She's more experienced with this too. )

Rachelle Crockett   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Both Obama and Clinton provided a spirited debate and they both appear confident in their policies on the war and health care. I've never seen Barack so confident and I've never heard Hillary speak so eloquently. It was a good night and I still don't know who I'm voting for:)

spc39   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

I was very pleased that both candidates shared more details of their positions on major issues. Much less important, but I noticed that, at the end of the debate, Senator Obama held Senator Clinton's chair and, as well, pushed his own chair back in under the desk, which tells me that he's both well-mannered and a gentleman.

eltee in MD   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Prior to this debate, I was uncommited. Afterwards I tend to lean more for Hillary. I just feel that with all of the problems that are facing us, she's better equipped to handle them. I love Obama, but I sincerely feel that in a national election, people that say they will vote for him will do something different once they are in the privacy of the voting booth. Change is nice, but change plus experience is better. Remember Jimmy Carter – nice guy that campaigned on change – but was a disaster as president. I remember that too well and I hope that Obama is not a reincarnation.

jeanne   January 31st, 2008 10:07 pm ET

well, I have to admit it…this was a very good debate…this coming from an Independent…!!! Not, bad…what I witnessed last nite…McCain..Romney…I am looking at an old war and fear monger..who shows his bitterness over Nam…and a slick businessman who will keep things "as usual" in Washington…!!!

peter`   January 31st, 2008 10:06 pm ET

a clinton cleaning up after a bush!! again!!! that is the statement of the century in american politics!!!!!!!!!

Momut   January 31st, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Isn't it nice that Hillary wants everyone to accept her excuse, "if I'd known then what I know now, I'd done things differently…" What a cop-out. President Bush would've probably done things differently if he knew then what he knows now, but Hillary won't give Bush the same treatment or benefit of the doubt that she expects everyone to give her. What a hypocrite!

Hillary, take responsibility for your vote for the war. Adults take responsibility for their actions: they don't make excuses for their actions.

Lorri   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Thought Senator Clinton was brilliant!!!

Vincent NY   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Well, I see you didn't put my comment through, well that tells alot. I'll get the message out about CNN. You know free speech!, not media preferences.

Betty MacDonald   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

A wonderful debate, I am having a hard time to decide which one to vote for.

LilA   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Great debate -best so far. I believe both came out strong, but Hillary has the edge. The Dream Team!

Yvonne   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Loved it!!!!!!!! My vote is for OBAMA.

Roberto   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Both Obama and Clinton showed they are ready to lead. I support Obama, but I wouldn't mind an Obama/Clinton ticket.

MICHELE   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

ALSO, LET ME JUST ADD THAT THE FACT THAT WE HAVE A AFRICAN AMERICAN AND I WOMAN AS ARE CANDIDATES IS SURREAL. IM SO THRILLED TO BE PART OF A HISTORICAL TIME.

Guada   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

I think that Hillary's intellegence out numbers Obama 10 to 1. She is knowledgeable about what awaits her as our next president of the United States of America.

Aunt Kimmi   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

I agreed with Hillary's answers more than Obama's until the Iraq segment. She's not going to admit she made a mistake. The best line ot the night….It may take another Clinton to clean up after another Bush. I would have added that women can clean house better than any man and there is a lot more to clean up after this Bush.

Non G   January 31st, 2008 10:04 pm ET

Fantastic "conversation" and respectful. Hooray for both candidates, they deserve our vote and it is up to us to search our hearts to vote for the one we truly believe in. God Bless you all and thanks for the comments, it was a fun exchange….ain't the US wonderful? Good night.

Adena Wheeles   January 31st, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Clinton showed the world that she is ready on" DAY ONE" to step into the Oval Office and turn this country around ! She was brilliennt, Mr. Obama is a bright man with a fantastic future but he is not ready to step up to this horried mess, the endless tragity of Bush's so callled leadership,

Yolanda   January 31st, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Hillary was awesome tonight. No matter who you're for, just vote. Good Night!

John Marrs   January 31st, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Well, you can moderate away all you want with my attempted post, but it won't change the truth. What, are you, a beneficiary of the First Amendment, censoring my online expression?

Check out the Hightower's report, if you want some information about my viewpoint.

JMM

John   January 31st, 2008 10:03 pm ET

They truly understand the objective of a Democratic Victory. Think we will see an Obama Hillary or Hillary Obama Ticket, Now that would be change

Bill   January 31st, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Why do these debates rarely include topics about space exploration and NASA?

Lynn   January 31st, 2008 10:03 pm ET

Shame on Wolf for trying to inject a cat fight situation.

O doesn't say details to his plans.

Hillary for Prez 08!

Natalie B.   January 31st, 2008 10:02 pm ET

Did I miss something with the idea of "controlling" our spouses, I know I dont control mine?!

Carol   January 31st, 2008 10:02 pm ET

Hillary and Obama really did well. I am still undecided for "Super Tuesday".

Joe Fab   January 31st, 2008 10:02 pm ET

Now for the pundits — can they allow a civil conversation and the kind of 'debate' we ought to have been having all along? Or will they have to twist it into some bloodsport event by shoving it through their own over-dramatizing, sensationalizing prism?

A. McKenzie   January 31st, 2008 10:02 pm ET

I think it's great that Hillary has ran as her own person. Even with Bill campaining for her, she still refuses to use his name as a crutch. I like Obama. I like Hillary. I am truly proud to be a democrat. We will once again be able to "clean" up the white house, as was done 16 years ago, after the first Bush, and Reagan, made trashed the country.

Marie   January 31st, 2008 10:02 pm ET

I agree with sue. Hillary is on top of her game. She has the best ideas, and is very clear on how she will put the ideas into motion. Please remember everyone that it is not about race or gender! We need to vote for the President that will do their job, be our leader and our voice for all the American people. Hillary Clinton has my vote their is no question about it that she will be the best choice for America!!!

Michelle   January 31st, 2008 10:02 pm ET

Obama is electable. I respect Hilary, but we have to win this time.

Texas Tech Univ. Student   January 31st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

Hillary your my girl!

Texas Tech University Supports YOU

Chris   January 31st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

I will vote for Obama, but Hill did ok on this debate. Just with the average joe could have attended debate and not catered to the elite.

Goodnight all!

Mark McMillan   January 31st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

I think Hillary could take-on McCaine better than Obama. She's clear and confident, he stumbles um… um… um… alot. Hillary is the best candidate.

Don   January 31st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

Tonight debate makes have given me a clear understanding of both candidates, and come Feb.5 my vote will matter for the United States.

Republican Thinker   January 31st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

First let me state that as a person who views have been considered conservative/Republican I have to say that this current administration has been a discrace to this country! That being said, the administration as but literally destroyed the possiblities of the American people every trusting another republicn in the oval office. I know I wont! So that brings me to the other choices. Viewing the Democratic debate this evening, I would have to say that I am very impressed with Senator Obama. He presents himself as a determined person who is clearly focused on rebuilding America and putting it back on the path of greatness we have become familiar with. I have been following all the Democratic runners since the beggining of the campaign, and clearly he shows himself to have the integrity, determination, policy agenda and ideas to lead this country in the right direction while providing the leadership to get Congress on the same path or hold them accountable for not providing the American people with the policy, direction, and government that they are elected to do. Senator Obama clearly is the best candidate in respect to the issues that are at hand.

Markakis   January 31st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

What about an Obama-Edwards ticket or Clinton-Edwards ticket? That is, if the loser of the nomination doesn't want to run as VP? Very interesting..

Canaan   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Best line of the night: the U.S. Government is not for profit!

Bry Bronson   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

this was the best debate I have ever watched. They were both great. Hope they keep this up. go Dem's !

Nitu   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

With due respect, I really think Barack lacks plans, I will vote for Hillary as she is experienced

Dmccoy   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Go Obama, you are and continue to be right day to day on the current issues

chris   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

She kicked his _ _ _ !

Gabriella   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

WOW!!! Hillary for President, Obama for VP… DONE!

stuart   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

I'm glad they asked the question I really wanted to hear….If either won the nomination, would they take their opponent as a running mate! I didn't think that either would give a definate answer, but at least they know we're interested in that happening. I believe that it would be an incredible duo and really get this country back on track!

jausti8371k   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Go Obama!!! Hillary was good however in my opinion he won my vote hands down. As a woman I have every respect for Hillary however my heart and my head is telling me that Barak is the one!!!

wes   January 31st, 2008 9:59 pm ET

I'm afraid Hillary is unelectable, sort of. All those voters on the fence, yet undecided may very well lean toward the Republicans if Hillar is the other choice. Be very careful here….

Doug Chismar   January 31st, 2008 9:58 pm ET

I thought each candidate made strong points. They were knowledgable and presidential in tone. They treated each other fairly and with respect, but laid out their differences. They maintained party unity and began to anticipate the contest with the Republicans.

But Obama's response about changing the mindset that led to our foreign policy mistakes was a powerful statement that illustrated how he would bring a different take to the presidency. Clinton, on the other hand, failed to answer the question about the Clinton/Bush dynasties, except for dropping her crowd-pleaser line about Clintons cleaning up after the Bushes. Are people named "Clinton" the only ones capable of doing that ? No.

FlaMike   January 31st, 2008 9:58 pm ET

I love both canidates and would be proud to have either one in office

MAXINE   January 31st, 2008 9:58 pm ET

A CIVIL DEBATE, Who would have believed it. It is refreshing to see two very intelligent people discuss the problems of the greatest country in the world.

ladyraven   January 31st, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Wow, Hillary really surprised us all with her Hallmark National Town Hall. I hope Sen Obama has something up his sleeve!

Ellen Justice   January 31st, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Neither Clinton nor Obama drew blood from the other, but I thought that Clinton did a good job of reminding voters of her greater grasp of both domestic and international realities. Obama is quite substantive, but his ultimate argument for himself is nothing more than, "I'm shiny and new."

Stephen   January 31st, 2008 9:57 pm ET

Can't wait to see how the media will try to spin this lovefest badly. This is a joy to watch versus McCain and Romney acting like kids arguing.

nyc4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:56 pm ET

To Wolf Blitzer's credit, his last question — wondering if it was already thought out or spontaneous — was a good one, as any observer would conclude that, the even tone and overall civility between the two, suggested that, no matter who is nominated, the other will not be far behind: it'd be a powerful ticket, and historic on every level.

Donna   January 31st, 2008 9:56 pm ET

Dream Team.Yes….Hillary Pres. Barak President in Training.

Susy   January 31st, 2008 9:56 pm ET

We do have a winning ticket Hillary/Obama!

josh   January 31st, 2008 9:55 pm ET

go barack see you this weekend in mlps. You are a true candidate and democrat. I love your ability to speak and where you want this country to go.

Former Republican   January 31st, 2008 9:55 pm ET

Never thought I would be saying this, but I am voting for Hillary. While I have great respect for Obama, he just doesn't have the detailed plans I'm looking for.

Kathy NH   January 31st, 2008 9:55 pm ET

After those closing statements … and genuine respect shown for each other I am actually in tears… What an extraordinary debate. Definitely historic, that this party will come together and win the White House.

jws   January 31st, 2008 9:55 pm ET

Clinton-Obama ticket? I don't think so – when we get through comparing these two, we will see the competition and see where we'll need some strengths – we might need a strong military-knowledgeable person as a VP.

Deb   January 31st, 2008 9:55 pm ET

too bad the good seats up front weren't given to the average americans the candidates say are most important. Instead, the best seat were given to the rich a and famous. This was CNN's doing.

Anthony   January 31st, 2008 9:54 pm ET

Pam- Obama is christian his church is the south side of Chicago, I have friends and relatives who attned his church " my god" where did you get the idea he was islamic ??? because his name is not "Fred" come on….

Adrian   January 31st, 2008 9:53 pm ET

I'm still undecided but I believe that Obama took this one!

Rory Murray   January 31st, 2008 9:53 pm ET

Well folks it's been a pleasure. I have to get ready to try out for Jeopardy online in an hour. Don't forget to vote!

nicole vickers   January 31st, 2008 9:53 pm ET

not too much mud slinging this time….but i love the united democratic front.
Shameless plug Hillary….

straighttalker   January 31st, 2008 9:53 pm ET

i think both did FINE tonight, hillary got a slight edge but there is no real DAMAGE done to obama…….

Kathy MacMaster   January 31st, 2008 9:53 pm ET

Aw, shucks… They were swell, weren't they?

Mikit   January 31st, 2008 9:52 pm ET

WHAT!!!!WHAT A SURPRISE…..
OBAMA JUST SHOWS RESPECT TO HILARY
!
NICE

Jon   January 31st, 2008 9:52 pm ET

This was awesome

hugo   January 31st, 2008 9:52 pm ET

go hillary! hillary will be our proud next US president!

JOE   January 31st, 2008 9:52 pm ET

HILLARY YOU DID A GREAT JOB ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

Michael   January 31st, 2008 9:52 pm ET

Have A Good Night Everybody And Hope You Search Your Hearts And Minds Before Voting No Matter For Whom!

Kathy   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

WOW that was great!!

Mary4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

While I certainly respect Senator Clinton for all of her work on behalf of this country, I think people need to get away from the thinking that she's somehow "owed" the nomination. I agree with the other comments that if she is the nominee, we will lose in November. Senator Obama can take this country in a new direction, and more quickly than electing someone who has been a Washington inside the beltway person for so long.

Sue   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

I am surprised at how quickly everyone forgets how the American people felt at the time that the Iraq resolution was voted on. Obama is so quick to point out that he didn't vote the way Hillary did and therefore he would be a better democratic candidate. But why is it that no one brings up the point that Senators represent the American people, and the vast majority of American people at that point were very concerned about the situation in Iraq, and were pushing for more strength from the US. Of course Hillary has been against the war from Day One; she was trying to best represent her consistuents, and balance that with her own perspective on the situation, which by the way was skewed by her peers that were lying to her about what the executive branch was going to do with that resolution. Bush's approval rating at that time was high, and it is part of an elected official's job to listen to their constituents. It was after his awful execution of that situation that his approval rating dove to where it is now. Now all of a sudden, the American people are applauding something which they know they were booing just a few years ago. They too are reacting differently out of hindsight; they shouldn't fault Hillary for doing the same. I believe Hillary has been doing what she thought was right, and she will represent this country in the better path forward, including being against the war in Iraq.

Linda   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

I think that the question about Bill Clinton's influence was incredible…could anyone get away with asking Obama how he planned to "control" his wife in the White House? I also Wolf Blitzer's "summary" of Hillary's answer regarding her vote to approve military force was not helpful. I think it would help us to remember that most of the American people were behind that decision and hindsight is 20/20. I am an undecided registered Independent and looking hard…Hillary did well.

Ciji Portis   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

Very tacky.. not a good note to end on Hillary. Wow! Go Obama!

Jerell   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

This is a great night for the Democratic Party

Amy   January 31st, 2008 9:51 pm ET

BEST DEBATE EVER!!!!

SS   January 31st, 2008 9:50 pm ET

Can these two give any response without blaming the Bush Administration? How about looking forward and stop pointing fingers!

Debo   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Hillary sounded so slick throughout…Barack is sometimes halting, but so smart and sincere.

KH   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

I was undecided until tonight on who would get my vote. Both candidates are qualified, but I have to say Hillary has really impressed me tonight and has won my vote.

ta   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

I can't see Hillary serving as VP under Barack.

Mama4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

"I'm the one running for President, not my husband"….."I think our country needs a second Clinton to clean up after the second Bush." Seriously Hillary, make a decision. Are you riding on your husband's Presidency or not?

Barry   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Dream ticket? maybe in Cuba

Peggy   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Sorry Hillary, I don't think you would operate alone in the White House. Bill is just to entrenched and it would be a team president situation.

pastro   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Hillary it's your campaign , so what will Bill be like with you in the whitehouse? If you haven't controlled him so far, why should we think you can or will be able to do it in the future?

PaulThePal   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Can Hillary have Bill be VP on a ticket or is that illegal what a nightmare!!!! This thought twists my colon and erodes my esophagas.

Sandy   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Wow! Hillary rocks. And Obama is great. I agree let's not fall get enticed into infighting. Vote with your brain.

Tom Schutrick   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Obama should have mentioned the Clinton years and how many troops are STILL in BOSNIA. ETC!!

Mags   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Wolf continues to annoy. But these are important questions and we need to know how these two people differ. Health Care alone! How is that we are the last civilized nation on earth (unfortunately, I use the term loosely) that does not co-ordinate a universal health plan for all? OK. Our taxes will go up. But have you have a major medical crisis lately? Increased taxes will not be a even a drop in the bucket. Nearing $100 K now just for heart stents – not talking chronic care, just an incident . . . what happens to those without insurance – or $ means? This one issue solved would create peace of mind, lessen fear and create a mentally healthier society – which THEN could take on ALL the other issues with vigor and unprecedented energy.

kris dawson   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

what will both of them do about drugs and gangs influnce in america

Che Eller   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Senator Clinton, you have my vote.

Susan   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Is it jsut me, or does Clinton have an extremely annoying, patronizing laugh?

susan f   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

If Clinton is on either side of the ticket, I'm leaving the democratic party! after what? 32 years a faithful voter? you go girl! destroy the party in full!

there are plenty more who are considering leaving because of Clinton's divisiveness

GoDems   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Now he possibly won't be right on Day 1 although he said he would be right on Day 1??

CLINTON_2008   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

The moderation has been HORRIBLE!!! How dare he try to pit them against one another! The LAST thing we need is any more mug slinging!

Grammy1   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Right on, Detric G! But being my age (senior), and having been there in 1968 when Bobby was campaigning, Obama reminds me so much of him, and the vitality he gave to America. He is the first Obama – but is very reminiscent of Bobby.

Jennifer   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

I feel like I'm looking at the first woman president.

Patrick   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Wow! I was really waiting for the vice president question to come up!

Raj   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Obama is clear on his stand and precise on pointing differences with Clinton. On many issues – Clinton is more like in between Bush and Obama!

ShanBan   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Hillary, Commander in Chief, with no experience. God help us!

bunky   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Hillary won't pick Obama as you can't run with the more popular person on the bottom of the ticket.

Gift   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

jmb, i think you got it wrong.

Obama for president.

Clinton and her husband for Vice.

Now that's a ticket.

Obama '08!

Yes we can!

Liam   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

This is one Democrat who will consider voting Republican for the first time if it is McCain vs. Clinton.

eva   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

All the respect for Obama voters. I do not hear inspiration and hope. War- important topic and very realisticly handle by Clinton. It will take months and more $$$ to end it. She is making sure that in the future budget everything will be covered. It's simple economics. Clinton – a great leader.

Evan   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Thanks Obama… Lets just censor the free world. Government shouldn't regulate our entertainment and especially the internet. I don't know about everyone else… but I have my kids block off of all channels except ones showing children oriented content. This is a personal issue not a governmental issue. Parents need to take control. The government can't wipe your A S S too!

Arni   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

How about China? How will they handle trade deficit? it economic power and military power?

Kt   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Dream ticket!!! Sounds good to me, they have my vote!

Otis Quinton Copeland lll   January 31st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Tonight the Democratic Party makes history. We are Proud to have Sen.Hillary Clinton, & Sen.Barack Obama representing us.It is a Blessing to hear two highly Intelligent Democratic Candidates Square off. It is time for change in this Country; So many people are suffering to the lost of jobs that are sent overseas for less wages. The housing foreclosure Problem in this nation is perturbing. The question now is which Candidate will lead our country forward. “I must admitâ€, Senator Barack Obama has captured lots of attention, and his Persona has opened up a lot minds in a positive direction. This is truly a definition of a Leader this is an Epiphany of a President…..

Mary Gannon Stolle   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

They both have done an absolutely great job! I'm proud to be a Democrat.

AC   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

I thought Wolfs comment on Hillary being naive was a cheap shot! I wonder if he would have made it to her if she was a man.

James   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Wolf is right………President and Vice President.

scott   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Clinton Obama 2009

Marilyn Lane   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

she is the winner….she knows what see is talking about. I believe she will be the best of the two.

Erin Lysaght   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Yes! Can you people just run together? And then switch in four years? PLEASE!

Shannon   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Why does the Politico lady keep targeting Hillary with the critical questions? So biased!!!!!!!!

volunteers4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Stevie Wonder stood up at the prospect of Obama/Clinton ticket

Wendy   January 31st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Wholeheartedly agree Wolf way to go!!! That is what we need

Cari   January 31st, 2008 9:47 pm ET

That was a great answer. She is doing well. I was for Edwards but am going towards her… What are other Edwards people thinking??

Chirs   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

The crowd seems very pro-Hillary.

Meghan   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Leave Bill alone! He isn't running for President, she is! Bill is his own man and his defense of his wife is what any husband would do!

greg limes   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

WE ARE LOOKING THE FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENET. MADAM PRESIDENT

Robert   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Both-are-doing-great.Either-one-can-beat-any-Republican.

Nilza   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Oh no! Now they're picking on Bill!

Good answer Hillary "I'm running for President. This is my campaign."

Joan   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Hillary is really doing great. She would be a great President!

S'iva Goodman   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

I WANT both Clinton's in the White House.

P. Bear   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Why is CNN refusing to ask questions about global warming? Is it because the coal industry is sponsoring the event? C'mon — both candidates referred to global warming in their opening statement and the moderators refuse to bring up the topic.

Carl Rody   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

I am sorry, but CNN would do well to place better people in charge of the moderation of these debates. Wolf Blitzer should consider announcing wrestling. I find his need to lessen the quality of the debate at every utterance, repulsive and sad.

Molly   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Good job Obama and Clinton ! You both have had an outstanding debate. I truly believe that either of them would make a good president and would beat any Rebublican candidate.

Dave Davis   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Obama continues to say he would have voted against the war… who even knows how he would have voted. That said, he has continued to support the funding for the war, can this man make up his mind or take a stand?

Terry Colins   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

I do not think this is a debate. I believe CNN is featuring and helping the democratic party display its' ticket for 2008. This is the reason John Edwards was told to get out of the race do this could happen tonight. Like John said do not worry about the son of a mill worker he will do just fine – and he will somewhere in maybe the Attorney General's chair.

jcs   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Finally we are getting to hear about the differences between the Democrats and the Republicans. I think that either of these two would make a fine president. We need someone who will reverse the disastrous policies of George W. Bush.

onlooker   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Very grown up debate !! however, Obama is inflicting a paper cut death on Clinton…. very clever !

….. wolf is playing the devils advocate !! poor Hilary !! she's constantly trying to explain herself ..stumbling right left & centre… re: Iraq war .

Killing Hilary softly
Obama clearly the winner in this debate :)

Walt Kienia   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

HIllary: "I am woman, hear me roar!"

Selena Hay   January 31st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

I think Obama is giving Hillary a run for Presidency. We do need change. Obama demonstrates strength, leadership, and tools in order to run this country. The problems we have to consider is cleaning up the mess that our current President has put us in. God be with you Obama.

Kim...Maryland   January 31st, 2008 9:45 pm ET

OOOHHHH, interesting question about Bill Clinton.

nancy   January 31st, 2008 9:45 pm ET

This should be good…What about Bill?

lewbee   January 31st, 2008 9:44 pm ET

On Hillary's vote on the war, why isn't she asked why she didn't read the national intelligence report? And why isn't Wolf stopping the Hillary endless replies to every question? Under the Anderson Cooper debate, four Republicans got more questions than did two Democrats.

Bev   January 31st, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Excellent debate without being nasty. However, almost every time CNN shows the audience applauding Barack, you show African-American supporters. Obama's supporters come from every race – including this retired 70+ white woman.

jdr   January 31st, 2008 9:44 pm ET

If Hillary wins the primary then the Republicans will have another 4 years in the White House. Obama can win.

jo   January 31st, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Wolf is borde, he is wishing for a fight.

amy   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

Obama is the best! Hillary would be great in a support role.

Anonymous   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

The 'Naive" question was out of line

Nate   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

Someone Tell Wolf to ask them about $3.50/ gallon for gas. These high prices are killing me and my family.

JerseyJ   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

hollywood movies are NOT presidential issues… come on…stop this stupid direction…get back to the REAL ISSUES

Savage   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

Wow, Hillary just got a figurative punch in the mouth in that last segment. You could see after Obama's stance on the war, she knew that was a great answer, and was really go called off balanced. But she recovered nicely, but he really out doing her IMO.

TJ Walsh   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

Government needs to stay out of the business of censorship!!

Al   January 31st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

"Naive." Talk about "naive." What about CNN and other parts of the news media at the time when the Iraq votes were being taken? Did they dig into the presentation by Colin Powell at the U.N. or deeply question the President's case?

Gregory Rounds   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Obama is such a great thinker .. I think he is the future of leadership in this country.

ObamaRaya   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

So what …. she has experience. Experience vs. judgment. Look forwards, not backwards

luke   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

I belive Hillary is winning this debate

John   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Everyone SHOULD be critical of Blitzer. He's become a distraction to the debate.

George   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Even Stevie Wonder can see Obama is better for America at this hour. We need a REAL uniter not a divider.

Peter   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

would be a much better debate without Wolf Blitzer

barbara rice   January 31st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Hillary is calm and cool
she is committed to help our
country and its diverse population
move forward
YOU GO GIRL

Blarny   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Well , what I have seen so far tonight is they are both on the same page pretty much .
But which one is going to have Vice in front of President .

tigers0399   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

The thinking that Hillary would not stand a chance against McCain is CRAZY! If as many people turn out for the election as did the primaries, the Democratic nomination will wipe the floor up with the Republican!

alex   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

whats up with all the celebrity camera crowd shots. I'm not sure if it is good for our image as dems to only see celebs in the crowd. maybe they got the invite? I live 5 blocks away from the Kodak, I wish I could have gone.

Chris - AZ   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Hillary continues struggle with the Iraq question in comparison to Barack. This round and this issue clearly goes to Obama.

GothicHippy   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Whats up Wolf trying to evoke an arguement several times during the debate and even going to very unjournalistic waters and throwing the "naive" out there? I lost a lot of my opinion on you over that petty move!

Debbie Coven   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Hillary, you are awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mat   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

No I don't think Blitzer wants to see a fight, he might just come out and say that CNN supports Obama

jmb   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Hillary for President

Obama for Vice-President

This duo is too good to break apart.

Amherst Mom for Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

This has been an excellent debate. Go OBAMA!

SKMitchell   January 31st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Obama just admitted that Hillary has flawed judgment.

Elisa   January 31st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Congrats to both Barak and Hillary for not allowing Wolf Blitzer's snippy comments, trying to create an antagonistic environment for this debate. What's up Wolf???

MarkkraM(IL)   January 31st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Tax plans , what are they in specifics.
Union support, would they change the right to high replacement workers? Can they do that as President or is that something Congress has to do?

Joe Popov   January 31st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Wow what a surprise, no one knew she had more experience…

Fayth   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Can you all see the two of them together ..
. Hillarys experience and Obama's inspiration..

What t a ticket that would be……

Dakota   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

FANTASTIC……America is BACK!!!!

Daniel Schlafer   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Both Senators Clinton and Obama gave an excellent summation of the Bush Iraq Occupation . Senator Obama just took a swipe at Senator Clinton over her initial vote on Iraq . Senator Clinton , " coercive diplomacy with putting inspectors back in …. President Bush was obsessed with Iraq ." Blitzer question of being naiive and trusting of President Bush ? Clinton , " I made a reasoned judgment , the person executing the policy did not ." Obama reply , " right on day one ! " He followed that up with stuttering ?

Charlie   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

GROUP HUG!

Sarah   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

GO OBAMA! It is the first time in my life that I have felt so fired up about a REAL change in America. He really is the future and you can really see it every step of the way in him throughout this debate.

Candice   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

"Right on day one?" if anyone's naive, it's obama.

Pablo   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

It is important to be RIGHT on day 1! Yes, go OBAMA!!!!

Canada   January 31st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Obama smoked Hillary on Iraq!

mrman   January 31st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

If it's anyone fault it's Tom Daschle. He was in there when Cheney and Bush pretty much strong armed them with intelligence. Remember? Daschle said he was a recon photo inspector when he served and he knew he should have said something. This war isn't Hillary's war. Leave her alone.

Brett   January 31st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

Obama needs to hit on the false motives and lies that lead us to war in the first place.

Debbie   January 31st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

Obama just admitted tha Hillary has more experience!

Ann   January 31st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

I want to see the candidates NOT the movie actors in the audience!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

katsina   January 31st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

reality is reality …..the debate is for real, the issues are real, the talk is been real, the hearts should be real but you had to take it in to reallity to vote for real

Independent in Maine   January 31st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Wolf – give it a break. This is ridiculous – issues.

GGJr   January 31st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

In the first half of the debate, there seems to be a pattern on the part of the interviewers (Especially Mr Blitzer) to cut into audience applause to Obama's responses by pushing in the next question (much less evident after Hilary's responses)… Is this a purposeful show of bias or just selective recognition of time constraints? It dosen't seem as evident after the break.

Debby   January 31st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

What do you plan to do about the nuclear problem
in Korea and loosely guarded nuclear bombs in Russia?

Norma   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I would like to know why Hillary is being allowed to dominate the time in responses. My sense, being an Obama supporter, is that she is getting about double the amount of time afforded Obama, mostly because she keeps talking on, and on, and on….

Detric G   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

He's not the next new JFK…he's the first Obama…

BRock   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Blitzer wants to see a fight. Not good. Let them be.

Steve4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

We can be proud of having TWO fantastic candidates. They are both billiant. I think Obama can bring people together better and will me more electable come November.

K-FED   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Obama is a talker, ain't falling for that!!!
Go vote for Hillary if you LOVE America.

Chisha Montoya   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I have not heard either Obahma or Clinton say anything about the plight of the Native American (American Indians). I am a 14 year old and am concerned about our Native people and their struggles in this country. If my mom is going to vote for one of them… she would wish to hear one of them mention something about Native Americans. She is a politician herself and has a Ph.D.

Please say something about Native Americans, so that young Natives will be determined that anything is possible and someday we will be able to one day work out of the white house.

gr   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

WOLF: GET OVER THE VOTE FOR WAR……….WE WERE ALL LIED TO.

Thomas Bess-King   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

What will they do about Capturing the leader who caused 9/11.

Sue   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

This is the first Presidential Campaign I can remember where I am truly excited about both Democratic candidates. However I feel Hillary's responses have proven to be more specific and concise where Obama's have been more generalized. Especially on Health Care as well as immagration issues. Her grasp of the subject matter as well as the content of her responses prove her to be more knowledgeable.

Russell   January 31st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

So why can't she just admit the vote for the war was a mistake? Can't she admit she was wrong at all?

Chloe   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

GEEZ, Wolf, STOP with the Bear-baiting already! I think the debate would do better without a moderator.

Dell   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Wolf,
Stop! You are deliberately trying to antagonize the candidates. We don't want to hear it. You are demeaning yourself. We want to hear the issues, not the bickering. Please stop the antagonism. I suspect your producers are the bad guys, as this is not entirely your MO.

Marquis   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

What do you say to veterans when they spent 12 and 15 months away from family? Was it a waste? 72% of the country supported this at the time.

Bob   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Maybe it takes an Obama to clean up after the Bush-Clinton dynasty.

Angie   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

My comment must really be a TOUGH one…it's still in moderation! I'm sure a lot people would love to know the straight forward answer, not one that is danced around. I'm a Christian in South Carolina and this is important to me.

Bonchance   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Absolutely, Obama had the foresight. And many of us who believe in peace did too. Hillary was a war monger and was bending over backwards to ride the post-911 momentum rather than standing up as a Christian and a morally sound individual for peace.

Tom Ramos   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Sorry CNN wanted to add to my question, establish Local School Council's throughout the country's public schools.

Geno   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Our economy will prosper without the billions being spent in Iraq.

Anonymous   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

if Clinton would not have ignored the problems with Iraq maybe we wouldn't have been attacked if he would have taken the correct action of prevention !. With this being said… Are we gonna take this risk again if Hillary get this??

M.L. Ramsey   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Sen. Clinton glossed over a question about her secret health care planning early in the Clintons' first term. As a physician, I would greatly appreciate hearing how she might change her approach to formulating a plan that will affect so many people.

Blue in VA   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

If I were a Republican, I'd be feeling pretty pessimistic about my party's chances in November. They have nothing to offer.

Rev. Robert Herron   January 31st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

I'm enjoying the debate tonight, I think we need both Obama and Clinton as President and vice.

My concern is Abortion, millions of children are being legally destroyed. Thats wrong, it seems our priority focus is on the Economy, The war in Iraq, Borders and
these issues are important to, but we need to hear more about abortion. lets hear the candidates position on Abortion

HW   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

We need to repair our reputation around the world. I think Obama is the one for the job. I can see world leaders more willing to embrace him than Hillary. She often comes off as arrogant, similar to Bush.

Len   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Iraq will never be on their own only because of where they are! Why should we want or try to establish a democracy in the middle of the Middle East? We will be involved in war until the end of time!! Let us leave it to our "allies" the Saudis to enforce democracy. Sounds logical doesn't it? Wonder what the Saudis will think if Hillary becomes President!! Will she kiss the prince/king (or whoever wears the dress there) like Bush? Hold hands? WOW!

MHM   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Good Debate!!! Hillary has WON!

BSR-Houston   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Obama had the right answer in the first place when it came to the war. He exercised good judgement. He is so much more intelligent than Hiliary and McCain. What foreign leader will communicate with Hiliary? Foreign leaders don't respect woman anyway and they are certainly smart enough to see through her smoke screen and lies. How far will Hiliary get with them?

Voters had better start thinking and USE GOOD JUDGEMENT! Vote for OBAMA!

Besides, she criticized Obama for saying he would talk to leaders who were our enemies. She said that Obama was nieve and inexperienced. Then she turned around and said that she would talk to foreign leaders. Double, Double Talk.

Hiliary should stop focusing on Obama and answer the questions! She should admit to her bad judgement. Stop back stroking! She was wrong and she should admit it.

Tom   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Question: American is at war with terror (Iraq and Afghanistan are supposed to be battles in a larger war)…What are the candidates' plans to win this war for America and to benefit the World?

jack09   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

We need a person as President who has the ability to win, the enemy is evil and present. We do not need a President who is still wet behind the ears.
Read Barack Obama's book "the Audacity of hope", he needs to grow up some.
Now read Hillary's book "Living History" she has been in the trenches and knows them well. EXPERIENCE means change will come.

Deb   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Obama gives hope and inspiration. He is bringing the younger people into the election process.

Heidi   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Wish Wolf would stop looking for swipes! What difference does it make that they point out their differences. It is, after all, an ELECTION. It seems like the commentators are leaning toward giving Hillary more air time to respond, and opportunities to give the quick quips.

Obama by far shows the strength in looking forward. Everytime Hillary talks about it she reverts back to her husband's term or the reasons she rejects the policies of the Bush admin.

jeremyemilio   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

What an awful night for the GOP.

Shawn   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

This country does not want to make race an issue in this election. I agree that race should not be an issue. Gender, as well should not be an issue. If Barack were to blatantly say it is time for an African-American President, this country would be in an up-roar. However, Ms. Clinton is permitted to attempt to capitalize on her gender by saying it is time for a woman be president. She constantly makes mention of her gender and it always go unchallenged by reporters, commentators, political analysts and debate hosters. Stop playing the Gender card, Ms. Clinton.

Ana   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

If I didn't know better, I'd think this is rigged. I submitted comments earlier in favor of Obama, but they were not posted. I won't say anything too deragatory about Hillary this time and maybe it will show up on here. Of the two candidates, I feel that Obama is much more sincere and realistic. I think it is admirable that he hasn't used money from lobbyists to run his campaign. I feel that Hillary is saying what she believes everyone wants to hear and in my opinion contradicts herself. She definitely wants the presidency, but I'm not so sure she'd be able to fill the shoes once she got there. I believe that were Obama to reach the presidency, he would work well with both sides which is ultimately necessary to get the job done.

AP   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

CAN WE GET AN UN-BIASED MODERATOR!!!! GOD THIS IS CRAZY!! SHE'S TALKING FOREVER WITH NO INTERUPTIONS FROM WOLF!!

yo   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

"There is no difference between me and George Bush on the war" – Obama…check it out for yourself

matthew   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

HIllary won A LOT of votes tonite!

She's AMAZING!

Robert Plasky   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Just think of the republican/democrate debate..with McCain and Hillary or Obama, discussing the Iraq war….could the show be any better…

nicole   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

It seems to me that there is a complete lack of balance in the number of questions and speaking time of the candidates. CNN moderators are clearly directing more questions and giving more time to Clinton. Obama is more of an afterthought.

LAMA   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Both candidates talk about great changes they will make, yet neither one has been able to say how they will actually make those changes. Talk is cheap.

Melanie   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Great answer Barack! He is much stronger on Iraq than her. "Setting the bar so low that it's burried in the sand"

puddytat   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

A four month investigation by N.Y. Daily found that most of the money of the relief package was squandered. … and none of it went to the 9-11 related expenses . …. she responded as is her fasion… she asked for another 20

ann   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Please Wolf, let them debate the issues and stop trying to ignite a flame that isn't there. They are not taking "swipes" at each other. They are — FINALLY — debating policy differences. Let them.

ellie   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

As someone earning less than $20k per year, I still don't see how I could afford either candidate's health plan premium. I want a single-payer, true universal plan like the rest of the world instead of supporting insurance company ceo's.

ali   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

with all those people as audiance still boring,i was suporting obama till opra came to scene ,he is talking about change meantime enjoys suport of kennedys,clintons have had mistakes but vote for clinton is vote against gop,bush ,rush limbos and gingriches..go Hillary go girl

Brett   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Obama is much more precise with his answers and follows this with conviction. He will be more likely than Clinton to follow through with what he has promised.

Dave   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Decriminalize Marijuana. Fighting the war on Marijuana costs our country billions of dollars a year as well, and all the profit from the drugs could be used to help pay off our 4 trillion dollar debt instead of funding 24″ rims on the Cadillac Escalade's owned by the street level dealers.

Jacob S   January 31st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

First of all, I'd like to say that I believe we have two excellent Democratic Candidates running for president. However, one of the things that hasn't been addressed is the audacity of our candidates. After all, we've plainly seen that Democrats in congress haven't accomplished as much as they could have, or should have for that matter. Personally, I believe that Democrats in congress could have gotten so much more done if they had just stood up to our current President. I guess my question here is, what can either Hillary Clinton or Barrack Obama do to show that they, unlike some of our candidates in congress, have the audacity to stand up against Republicans, Special Interests Groups, and any other adversary to their administration.

Marcela   January 31st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

this will be my first time voting for a president, I got my citizenship a year ago or so. I am an immigrant, and the way Democrats deal with immigration issues is so much human than Republicans do, there is no way I would vote for them. The debate is very interesting and both candidates are doing a great job. In the previous weeks I have been turned off by the way Hilary has attacked Obama's record, but I also see that the press is a lot harder on her. I am just very proud of the Democratic Party for having two candidates that challenge the standards.

Bill M   January 31st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Obama is the new JFK

Edward Reynolds   January 31st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

You have got to be kidding me. All candidate are not aware or addressing the issues. When I live in a town of 12,000 in Indiana, and there are 4000 jobs at our local boom warehouse district, and more than 2000+ of these workers are illegal immigratrants. These are hard sought after jobs with health benefits and IRA's. These are such prestigious companies such as Conagra foods, Case New Holland Tractors, Time Life Publishing, Home Depot, Pearson Education and the list goes on. These are not the jobs all delegates claim are affected. One immigrant told me today, "The jobs they, the delegates, talk about only pay $5.25 an hour, are they kidding, why would I want that when I can make the same 14-16 dollars an hour just like you. This situation has destroyed our local economy.

Paulite   January 31st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Barb in Dallas January 31, 2008 9:12 pm ET
wrote:
This is the most informative debate that I have observed.

Too bad the media won't let ANY of us hear from Ron Paul. They don't want us to be informed. The good Dr. offers the best of both worlds, crosses party lines.
Freedom & liberty.

Margo Cory   January 31st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Why are you letting Hillary DOMINATE the debate! GIve them equal time!!!

nick arcia   January 31st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

people keep commenting on how well clinton speaks, well thats nice, of course she does she an old school politico tha same kind of politician that has frozen D.C . this is what they do.

Dave Thomas   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Ron Paul was never fooled. He voted against the Iraq war from the start. Should we vote for someone that was so easily fooled e.g. Hilary?

Jim P   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Hillary does not need bill Steve. You will have to research it but Hillary was against nafta and told Bill no. I saw it on tv from a pundant the other night, not sure which channel but it wasn't fox. Bill is just a better speaker.

Wesman   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Why Has EVERY Question That Politico.com Asked was For Sen Clinton? I'd Like To Know Why Sen Obama Thinks He Is Qulified To Be President By Being a State Sen and ONLY Been In The US Sen For Less Than 2 Years! And Voting PRESENT 135 Times..

reba   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

name dropping is sooo low-brow….yes Hil, we know you have big named friends, but it's Obama who has gone for the many of small named citizens to back him…

CARPETBAGGER HILLARY….

Tyler   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Both of these candidates have great policies on many issues that are important to this country, the only thing that i am happy with is this will be the first year i can vote, and i know that whether my vote goes to clinton or obama i have the oppotunity to place my vote no only on someone who will make change, who will help bring this country back to where it needs, deserves, and has for a long time wanted to be, and on top of that i will be able to place a vote change the face of my life, change the face of America, and change the face of history.

pam goode   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

As an American Citizen and a woman, I feel that the Boys Club, including Senator Obama, are patronizing Senator Clinton because she is a woman.
Let's face it, women have to work twice as hard as any man to prove themselves, I know this first-hand, having a background in upper management with a mostly male environment.
I hope that the American Afro-Americans, as well as others, look at the issues, the solutions, and and who has a plan to solve them. I feel Senator Clinton is the women for the job. She is experienced, so much so that Senator Obama, can try to crush her on her job record. Hindsight is always better than the right now. She has made decisions based on information available at that time. Oh, by the way, I'm am not a supporter of this war. Again, I have first-hand experience on that, My son-in-law served 18 months in Afghanistan, leaving my daughter with two small children, under the age of four. I know what's happening over there. My son-in-law was a very conservative Republican before serving, now he is a Democrat.

I'm curious, will Senator Obama, if elected, take his oath on the Holy Bible or the Koran?
I'm sorry I know that in America we have freedom of religion, however, this Country was built on the Christian religion.

I am glad that this debate has been civil, however I heard Obama drop the Kennedy name. Go ahead and drop Oprah's name while you're at it. I had alot of respect for Oprah before she announced her support of Obama, I don't watch her show anymore. Someone in her position, should not make that public.

Hillary is the woman for the job. She really cares about people like me and by husband. We have a very hard time making it, between health care expenses, gas prices, and groceries. I had the rug pulled out from me five years ago, at my prime, because of health issues.

In our town the immigration population, according to our city's census can't be accurate. At our local Wal-Mart, we are lucky to see anyone who speaks English. The signage is in English and Spanish. Teddy Roosevelt put it well, come to our country,however, speak our language, and fly our flag. That is not happening in our town.

Please vote for Hillary. Pam Goode, Winchester VA

LPE   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Watching the debate tonight is someone fraustrating. It appears that all or a majority of the questions have been developed for Hillary Clinton. Correct me if am wrong, but are there not two people still in this race? There are those of us that would like to hear the views of BOTH candidates! Why are the majority of the questions geared towards Hillary? How is this a debate?

jdcma   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I agree. It seems that Wolf/CNN tries to poke sticks to instigate things…rather than let the conversation flow. There's a difference between trying to elicit differences and just trying to instigate things.

Lateef   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Too many Questions for Senator Clinton. What about Obama questions

badmammah   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I want both of them to talk to about raising my flat wages!!!!!

Sally   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

If Dems nominate Clinton, there will most certainly be another Replublican in the White House in 2009!! Democrats neeed to realize that whomever they nominate, will actually HAVE to run against McCain (probably) — Hillary would NOT win that contest, and the Democratic party will lose in the end!! If we really want to put a Democrat in the presidency, we need to pit Obama against the Republican candidate — the Republicans know this and are hoping to see Hillary nominated! Wake up people!!

laurie   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Obama looks to the future, he sees what can be. he knows our future is not soundbites, but carefully crafted positions based on substance and principle.

Hillary has to keep bringing up the past and what Bill did.

brenda   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Hillary answers the questions point blank, Obama is giving his usual rhetoric (no substance). Please America pay attention and vote to put the best Democrat up against the Republicans…this can only mean Hillary.

emmanuel   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

This is a mature and experienced woman. (A woman in a place of power cannot appear timid and too friendly) Look at Margeret Thatcher

America should vote Hillary

sea   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

What a cheap excuse to vote against Bush having to come back ton congress and also remember she had a well informed adviser at home, her husband, who just left the WH

Sorry she has no credibility when it comes to Iraq and I am so tired of her admitting her misjudgment

robin   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Hillary makes excellent points, conveys her thoughts well. I believe she has a better understanding of the 'system' and will go toe to toe, not backing down.

Aviator4444   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Clinton voted for the war and supported Bush. End of story.

hardworkinman   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

what ever happend to freeing people around the world bosnia, kosavo, but not iraq ?

pippsell   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Yeah…I would go for a Clinton/Obama ticket.

bigmike   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

she can't answer issues and still dropping names. she trouble on her own, some people look at bill through her, she made a mistake on her vote obama didn't.

paul   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

OBAMA WOULD NOT LAST IN A DEBATE WITH SENATOR McCAIN…..GO HILL

Repub turned D-crat   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

memo to GOP:

This is how winning candidates conduct themselves and debate issues that affect America. I know many of you are disappointed in the McCain, Romney, Huckabe, Presidential want-a-bes…, so admit that this team will fix what your Bush failure broke and vote for a real solution to the GOP's 8 year screw up.

ray   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Right, Obama can win 40+ states, while with Hillary it will be a 24-26 and who know which side will win, Obama can bring in REAGAN REPUBLICANS TO THE THEIR SIDE… Hillary will be to divisive..

hugo   January 31st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

wolf be a moderator for this historic moment. stop trying to insert confrontation into the debate. issues should be the line of discussion here!

Teresa in charlotte, NC   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Please Hillary, stop slinging or dropping names around. Maxine Waters and all of the Kennedy's and every American gets one vote. I am so tired of the dropping names. Just drop your ideas and allow Americans to support you based on trust. Ask Hillary if she is the democratic nominee, does she plan to drop names or does she plan to continue using the line "if I knew then what I know now", when does she plan to say I made a mistake and move on?

Linda   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I agree with B! What is the plan to better care for the veteran and their families?? Neither candidate is being realistic about the challenges they'll face in Congress. I think Obama may be better at "reaching across the aisle."

slem   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter, but I have to admit Hillary is killing him. This is the day I've always dreaded. She is too good a debater. He has her hands down on speeches. I wish he would get more specific and attack her faults. The Clinton Administration in the 90's were peaceful and good, but let's not forget their carelessness that ALLOWED for the resurgence of the Right and the Religious Right that allowed for George W Bush to take the election. It will happen again. She is too divisive. She can't help it. She wants revenge. She wants the last laugh.

Anthony   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

How can Dems promote anything when a veto is imminent.

korey   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Clinton is on fire tonight! Her answer to that question was genius and it sounded like she was being honest.

Yvette   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I think it is ABSOLUTELY DISGRACEFUL that presidential debates are on paid cable stations. These should be on FREE t.v. for ALL to see!!!!!!!

matt b   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Ron W, its because all of their friends are the owners of the companies that make all the supplies that keep the war going.
Military Industrial Complex, look it up or watch the documentary, it will make you sick.

sboyd   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Yes – I agree – I think Wolf is looking for something to talk about tomorrow – his swipes are getting really tiresome. I thought Anderson Cooper was moderating this debate – I wish he were….. The media needs to clean up its act so the American people can judge for themselves – and Wolf is one of the worst!

Terry Austin   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

John McCain will kill her on the issue of defense.

Marc (Albany, NY)   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I think healthcare is so cetral to Hillary's mentality that she would be better to pursue a career in the healthcare management industry and leave the Presidential stuff to Obama! :-)

Brian   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

"If I knew now what I know now"

Yes, yes, hindsight is 20/20. Let's start thinking ahead of consequences rather than just reacting.

Zavia, FL   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Hillary we don't have time for sorry can I get a "do over" in the white house.

Dr. Rick Shearer   January 31st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

hillary has too many "friends" in washington. we need Barrack who will bringe needed change!!!!

MJ   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Wolf has become the Rush of CNN. Trying to influence an election. The questioning has a bias slant. Where is Tim Russet when we need him? Wolf PRES SEC. in the Clinton white house!!!

Geno   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Same old Hillary. If I only new. Our President must have vision.

vincent   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Abused- misued- are you kidding me- What Bill did was abusive and if I recall — he was impeached!

josh   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Nate buddy open your ears.." I want to be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in" That is rhetoric for I don't know when the hell we will get out…. Typical Obama supporter…

jen   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Hillary hit the nail right on the head by saying it may "take a Clinton to clean up after a Bush!" I agree. Obama has it easy by saying that he would not have voted to give power to Bush after 9/11 about Iraq, when we all know what the pressure was on all legislators at that point in history. He has the luxury of not being in the Senate at that point. Hillary is the only candidate who will get us out of Iraq and who can get America back on the right track! Go Hillary 2008! We cannot afford to elect anyone else.

mary   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I wish they would not allow clapping

lou andrade   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

The Democratic party debaters are having a very high level debate, without confrontation, but pointing out their differences both between themselves and also with the Republicans. My preference is for Senator Clinton for her clarity on issues and also for her views that correspond to mainstream Americans, without shunning minorities or immigrants.

gavin   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

question for both – what are you going to do to bring about a palestinian state during your tenure and support foreign policy to limit israels occupation of gaza

Gina   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Isn't it obvious she is more experienced than him? She ABSOLUTELY brings both CHANGE and EXPERIENCE, what is better than that? just change? didn't we have that with Bush? just total change….and no experience. Let's be careful America!

Julie   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I agree with Nate in NOLA: Lots of words are being said, but all Hillary is saying is that she can't commit to ending the war. I wish Obama wasn't so nice sometimes!

Chuck   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

They have danced aroud the VA issues but no hard solutions…that should be the first task of the withdrawl of troops

James   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Hillary…seriously? Vote against everything and then change your stance when you want to become president. Bush is wrong now, but wasn't when you voted in Congress? Vote to go in…wait never mind. Get informed yourself before you make a decision! It's not Bush's fault you were uneducated. How can she answer this?

Ebony   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

If Hillary isn't president, she better be speaker of the house!

Danny   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Which ever one of them the american people choose, do you think the winner will take the other for their running mate?

hilda   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

A terrific debate! Both opponents are quick, thorough and to the point. They are actually tackling the issues! However, I've never heard either of the candidates views on how they would handle the Israeli/Palestian issues.

Can this question be included please? Thankyou.

Hilda
Washington State

Saadia   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

It is substansive but they can make it more fun.

ed stone   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

How about Bill Clinton for Sec. of State?

Michael Johnson   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

And how are any of these candidates going to get anything done? Democrats or Republicans the people who lead this country are the idiots in Congress. I DONT BELIEVE any of the candidates can get any of these things done. People dont realize this. I am willing to bet my retirement that two years from now we will not have anything done and be weaker on the world stage.

I'm a democrat   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I like being lied to. Give me 4 more years of Bill

DemReg   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

If a democrat becomes president it will definitely be Obama. He is more level headed in his responses and does not rely on his Spouses presidency to help his campaign.

carol   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

please candidates, loose the cheery rhetoric of economic stimulus. Do nothing about the debt burden and you do nothing. We don’t need stimulus; we need economic change, and economic justice. If you get rid of credit ratings, or just clear up the American people's credit. The economy will be stimulated. I could go buy something and not have to worry about collectors calling. After 7 years your credit should be clean, but it is not. That is why people are losing their homes, because they are worried about their credit rating and have to decide on maintaining the American dream or eating. Why should those who have celebrity status, and just doctors or lawyers drive nice cars, nice homes etc. I work and make 41,0000 dollars a year and I spend my time correcting my mistakes when I was younger and in college because of the lack of knowlege of how to use credit I am in debt as well as other Americans. Just clear up the debt and our economy will be stimulated.

Hussein should have remained in Iraq. America has it's own problems. We are not the police of the world. America is selling our Americans up the river.

Marcelle   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I am a HAITIAN woman watching all the debates. There is a high percentage of Haitians in USA, I hope you will remember that. A lot of us are educated and hard working; a lot of us too are having immigration problems and financial problems. Be aware of our presence.

Good luck to whoever wins. I am proud of both of you. You are making history. The Black Committee has a role model, now that Jessie and Al are getting older.
The women are uplifted; and the WHOLE USA IS REPRESENTED.

Marcelle

WenMD   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Please stop focusing on the illusion of likability — everyone thought GWB was the guy to have a beer with – there's nothing about personality that trumps the strong command of the issues and balance that needs to be in place on day one.

Hillary has the skill, depth, and presence we need – I love to be inspired, but I can get that at church. What I *need* is security, a universal health care coverage, and the knowledge that my president actually can get things done even after giving a glowing speech.

Johan (New York)   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Is Wolf Blitzer part of the Clinton campaign?
He keeps asking questions that favor Clinton like "that's a swipe at you, isn't it"

Dale   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Hillary is a mature PERSON with a reality base on negotiation, not a pie in the sky view point. When I was 20 I wanted to end the war in VietNam NOW. Maturity helps you understand that absolutes are never possible. You have to work to get the things you want, they don't just happen because you want them to.

Robin H. in Vancouver, Canada   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Watching those two, on stage, in that position, poised to become the leader of the free world, makes my eyes well up with tears of joy. Bravo. The only thing that could top this is for Hillary to be President and Barack, Vice-President for 8 years, so Barack could have the following 8 years as President. Canada loves you both.

Gerri   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Has every woman that stays at home forgotten about Hillary's comment that
"she didn't stay home and bake cookies", well take it from me and a lot of other stay at home Mom's, we will remember that when we go to the polls.

Dem08   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Hillary has committed to ending the war. Lets note that Obama keeps looking at the past, while Hillary Clinton is talking about the future. I do not care how we got into war or who voted for it. Hillary has explained her vote. Now lets look toward the future.

Kelly Davin-Robar   January 31st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Wow…..

I cannot believe how much tiiimmmeee…you are giving HILLARY!
Wolf-you need some serious moderator training!! That was a "swipe" at Hillary?

Isn't this supposed to be a debate??? I think Barack was poining out a profound difference between he and Hillary.

QUESTION to HILLARY:

What makes you the ENVIRONMENTAL CANDIDATE? In all of your eyars (35, right?), of public service what REAL environmental legislation have you written or co-written?

Give Brarack some TIME. Wolf-you suck!!!

keith carey   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Hillary voted to stop weapon inspectors in IRAQ, WOW, she sure has BAD JUDGMENT!

christiB   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Wolf Blizter is driving me crazy! Why does he keep attacking Barak Obama? He is giving an advantage to Hillary every five minutes by trying to through Obama off with his side handed questions and remarks.

patricia Stone   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

We should talk with our enemies – better than invading them and sending the US into economic and moral tragedy.

Obama is the right person for this time.

Jeff   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I think there is something to the question about the Bush/Clinton dynasties of the past couple decades. Although I do respect Hillary Clinton's accomplishments, I think she is too connected to the decisive red/blue state politics of the past. Conservatives will be as unhappy about a Clinton presidency as we liberals have been about Bush. We need to move beyond the decisive politics of the past 16 years and bring this country back together. And honestly, I think Obama is in a much better position to bring about this reconciliation so he will be getting my vote.

rpollock   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

as iraq is being discussed did anyone watch the hbo doc. bagdad hospital

Beast250   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

The Republicans put Government everywhere it doesn't belong and remove it from everywhere it does. I would vote for Satin, if he could beat the Republicans in 08. Who can beat the Republican Candidate?

Karla   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

She takes every question and goes so deeply into the answer. She is one of the most intelligent candidates that we have ever had in American history.

Richard Strauss   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Since Edwards dropped out, I was leaning toward obama, but hillary is scoring lots of points with me. She seems very presidential.

Eddie Miller   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

If I could have a dollar for every name that Clinton dropped I would be a billionaire

saundra   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I know there is a negative impact on black folks due to illegal immigration. Obama does not see it. Oh well, then I do not see him in the white house.

robin   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Good for Hillary bringing up the permanent bases option Bush wants.

Russell Hunt   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Hillary and Barack both claim that all republicans want to follow Bush's lead.That is a lie. Ron Paul has fought Bush on his foreign policy every step of the way.Ron Paul wants ALL our troops home.This election shouldn't be about political parties.It should be about morality and justice. The American Way!

William-Jose Velez   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Puerto Rico status!!!! CNN please ask something about it!

Jim   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Why do both of you want corporations to be given money up front for providing health care, when they are in business only to make a profit. Should we let Blackwater take over our local police departments for a profit? Maybe Halliburton could take over my local fire station, while another station is operated by another company and I could get bids for a fire at my home? Why does a business have to make a profit on my health?

John Pugh   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Wolf – you are not listening. The candidates are saying that they have their eye on the goal of bringing back our troops. It would be irresponsible to commit to a timeline without first gathering all the facts and considering the implications.

You need to back off on over-simplified questions! I think the questions coming from the the other people there are very good ones. I'm liking the answers and it is so refreshing to hear from articulate candidates.

teresa   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I would like to know how obama or clinton plan to rebuild our military and make us a fighting force instead of a police force?

Jean   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I think Hillary has won this debate and is much better prepared for the questions. It is so great to see a strong, highly intelligent woman running for the Presidency. It is inspiring for all women.

needs to pick a candidate   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

huh… wolf is making it extremely obvious where he (and maybe cnn) stand. Why does he continue to accuse obama for "swiping" hildawg? what a joke!

Jerrod   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

In my opinion Clinton will not set a time table for withdrawl to leave herself wiggle room to say in a general election that we will stay in Iraq until we can "safely" and "humanely" withdraw. When that is is vague and is essentially a statement that we will stay in Iraq "as long as it takes." This is the same position as the Republicans.

Dr Max Kennick   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

what si the deal with Wolf? does hillary always get the last word? how about some fairness for Barrack?

Theresa   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Why does the moderator continue to say that Obama's answers are jabs against Hillary when he clearly is not doing that at all? THe moderator has done this four times! They are keeping it very civil and clean. Great Debate, history at its best!

Bill   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

looks like they decided not to go at each other tonight.
politcally smart, given that America is tried of the senate
not getting anything done, and they don't want to remind
America that they are part of that do-nothing senate.

wolf is weak.

M Sullivan   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Yes, tell the terrorists that we are withdrawing….they will wait us out and all the men and woman who have died in this war will have died in van because the Democrats do not have the cojones to stay the course.

Rosie   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I'm a second Generation Mexican – American and Proud !! I agree with Obama on the Immigration Issue. We have so many Homeless Americans due to the closing of so many American Factories. People are complaining now because so many Mexicans are taking our jobs but yet we buy American Products that are made in Mexico!!! If the American Factory owner's were to pay the Mexican People at least half of what an American would work for in the United States Factories then maybe the Mexican wouldn't come here looking for jobs that the American people find themselves above doing . Yet they enjoy the homes and office buildings that they live in and work in not to mention the fruits and vegetables they eat and their clean homes because the Mexicans will build and they will pick those veggie's because one else wants to and they clean those houses and they do it for next to nothing .So really the White race needs to quit blaming the immigrants ( Especially the Mexican ) for their lack of jobs because not all immigrants are Mexicans we got people from all over the world who come to this Country but the Mexican gets all the blame could it be because they work hard for to little !!!!! To any and all Latin people of this Country or not I would advise you all not to buy anything made in Mexico if it's not made in the United States by a US citizen then PLEASE for the sake of your fellow LATINO don't buy it…. It's about time we give ourselves the credit that no one else is willing to give us. QUE VIVA EL MEXICANO AMERICANO

S Jay   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Hard-hitting questions. This is riveting.

ed stone   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

It's not as much fun for the media if it's not a cat fight.

Penny Tucson   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

This is the most adult, professional, intellegent debate I have ever seen. I have seen 30 years of debates and these two are pros………..I have my preference but would be thrilled with either one. What a team they would make.

BOB   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

JUST ENJOY IT AND REMEMBER THIS IS HISTORY IN THE MAKING.
WHOEVER WINS THE PEOPLE NEED THE CHANGE!!!

d. johnson   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Hillary has da spotlight!

Victoria   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

CNN ~ You need to have Blitzer stop making this out to be a battle and trying to fan a fire – We want a debate with issues and answers – not your network trying to make this out to be a bickering match instead of "the people" being able to hear the issues and answers so we can make our decision on a president.

Derek, Jersey Shore   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Here is Hillary's crippling question. She needs to stand up to this Iraq issue!

Bob   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Flip flop, flip flop, Hillary is for the war and now claims she wasn't …

Rollison   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Hillarys judgement is TERRIBLE

Chris   January 31st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I am glad that the candidates are being respectful of eachother.
I feel strongly that Clinton has much more experience, is obviously extremely intelligent, and has the foreign policy experience to be the very best candidate to be the President of the United States in 2008!

Judy   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

For all of you Hillary fans. Of course she is a clear talker, that was her and Bill's strong point s. The dazzled the American public for 8 years while Osama Bin Ladin got stronger.

E Pool   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

My heart says Obama, but my head says Clinton, I'm truly torn

yolanda   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I believe it will take a Clinton to get us out of the mess we are in now…
I am so proud of Hillary

Chirs   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Hillary makes a good Senator… but that doesn't mean she makes a good President. She doesn't make a good leader, she doesn't motivate and inspire people to get involved, to give.

Bill Coyle   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Potus + VP, but which?

JC Cincy   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

What will Hillary do to prove she can control the White House when her last stay ended up being a complete disaster in terms of knowing what's happening inside the walls. Her stay almost yielded only the second President being kicked out of office. WE DON"T NEED ANOTHER CLINTON in the White House.

citizenkane   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Wow!!! Will Barack get to speak????

ARCHER   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

If either one of these people get elected President it will be a disaster for the country. Within two years the economy will be in shambles and our enemies will be knocking at our door. It is truly frightening.

Tim   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Bush has really made a mess of this country! Go Democrats. I am glad that we have two strong candidates.

Amy   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I want to know if either of them plans to cut the military once the war in Iraq is "over"….

Liz   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Change will do little good without the experience to bring about change. Obama needs to run in another eight years, then he'll be experienced enough to have earned my vote.

Steveinhouston   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

They are FINALLY having a debate where we can see the minute, but clear, differences they have on policy, for people who havent made up their mind, this should be the basis, who most meets what I expect.

With that being said would someone please tell Wolf Blitzer to SHUT UP and stop saying "Senator Clinton that was a clear swipe at you" every time Senator Obama makes a point.

Thus far, Obama gets my vote.

mike (iowa)   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I will say this, Clinton is a good old school politician…she is good at playing the political game in this primary…but she's not a uniter, she isn't going to pull independents (which I am)….she's no Obama.

Arnold Bakal   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

seniors on Social Security for many years have been in financial stress trying to meet their bills
would you eliminate the earnings limitation caps imposed on seniors collecting their intitlements giving seniors a beeter quality of life

Fran Manning   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

How does a democratic president affect our military and financial support of Israel?

Allen Bloomfield   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

why can't Hillary answer the the questions strait up and not run off the subject

ecady   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I want to know what is going to be done about gas prices? I want to know what is the future of our ecconomy? I can barely live off the amount of money I make and I can barely afford to put gas in my car. What is the plan for both canidates?

m. pumbo   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Hillary has been so calculating and manipulative. Obama.

Obama.

Obama.

Obama.

Obama.

Obama is doing so well tonight!!!! No more dynastic politics.

dianne c. los angeles   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

most interesting debate we have seen in years

Myra   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

If Sen. Clinton is elected President., what would Bill's title be? First Husband? First Gentleman? whaaat???

Neal   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

How does a presidential canidate like Senetor Obama admit to using drugs. I have a 17 year old at home… how will I keep him away from using drugs when someone with a high status like the Senetor has admitted to using them himself?

jdcma   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I am seeing a Hillary/Obama ticket or maybe a Obama/Hillary ticket?

Brody   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

What a difference the West Coast makes? This debate is a far cry from the debate in Myrtle Beach!

Aaron   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

As a life long Republican voter, I want to weigh in here with what my friends and I think of the race this year.
At a meeting yesterday we reached the following conclusion, unanimously as it turned out.
We will either vote for Obama, or we will vote for the Republican contender.
As a group we want to see the country take a step forward, not back to the Clintons or Bush' or any of their ilk and following. We all regret our votes for Bush, or varying reasons. McCain will likely throw gasoline on the oil fire that the middle east has become and Romney would grind middle America even further under the boots of the corporate captains who are moving our jobs overseas and allowing the migration of illegals to do the jobs that physically cant be done overseas.
The Republican party sold us out to the corporations and the Clintons will sell anything out to anyone for a political advantage.
I do not think we are alone among republicans. We see the positive changes that Obama would bring to out-weigh the negative.
Hillary Clinton is the only candidate that would push us back to McCain or Romney or any of the other 2nd tier candidates.

Donna   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Go OBAMA!!!!!! So much more poised, down to earth, and truthful than Hillary. She has to 'act' cordial tonight versus Obama who has risen above low down dirty tactics all along. Go OBAMA!!!!!!!

Lorraine   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

This ex-Wisconsinite is voting for OBAMA in California…

Joe S.   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Senator Clinton is my choice for President(Florida will get it right this time) ! She has my vote!

Amy   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Wolf, stop trying to create drama by attempting to pit Clinton and Obama against one another. Americans are tired of drama and division. We are interested in ideas. If we wanted to watch fabricated drama, we'd tune in to SURVIVOR.

Whitney for Obama in St. Louis   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Obama will end the mindset of the war. He will clearly be able to lead us out of war and into peace with other nations. Hillary what are you talking about? Your argument is to complicated about Iraq. You loss me. Get to the point.

Pisceswoman   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

What a great time for us all. I am not against Hillary–just for Barack! Perception is a funny thing…Barack looks focused to me, not nervous. The military answer was great…Hillary is boring me now…

Nancy   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I think it is clear from tonight's debate so far – both candidates can leverage common ground and build concensus. I also think it is clear that Senator Clinton has a better command of real solutions, not just rhetoric. Senator Clinton can beat John McCain OR Mitt Romney. What about a Clinton-Obama ticket?

Melissa Sandoval   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Clinton is providing plans for health care and the steps her administration will take to solve the illegal immigration problem. With the immigration question, she finally acknowledged the concerns of American citizens and workers. It seems someone is finally acknowledging the feelings of those American citizens opposed to illegal immigration. Obama is stumbling over his answers, touting Ted Kennedy's name too many times, and is giving vague answers and generalities. Obama is trying to bait Hillary with attacks and Hillary is not engaging him but instead is answering the questions given her. Clinton is presenting herself as the candidate who has a plan for leading America into a new day.

michael olesak   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

clinton ahead. appears to have a clearer grasp of issues. mike olesak, new jersey

Ashley   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Do either Obama or Clinton have a clue about National Defense? No

MARIA 2325   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

GO HILLARY!! , YOU ARE DOING GREAT , YOU ARE SHOWING REALISTIC PLANS

missy   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Good statement Hillary.

Clinton, Obama – That is the Ticket!

Diana   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I think Obama is all talk. And what has Obama done of great importance since he's been an Illinois Senator compared to what Senator Clinton has done?
And since Obama doesn't support the war…what happens on day one if Obama gets elected we have another terrorist attack our country, then what Obama, what would you do? Shrink back and do nothing?

Chicago2   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Obama for President! Clinton for Vice-President! They'd kick those Republican's butts!!!! =)

Paul   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Hillary can't commit to ending the war? WOW! GO OBAMA GO!

Gift   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Obama! Obama! Obama!

He is so smart and articulate.

Careful as we were careless going in!

Yes!

josh   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

What are the odds of a Clinton/obama orObama/CLinton

puddytat   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

She spearheaded a fed. gov. relief package of 21.4 billion … she called that package the proudest moment of her life ! ! ! ! ! !

Dr. D   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

How can you be the "candidate who can bring change" if you've been in Washington for 15 years and the ways of Washington haven't significantly improved in that time?

The comparisons should be: What did each of them do in their respective FIRST TERM in the senate?

Jeff - PA   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Why doesn't Blitzer keep his comments to himself, and just moderate?

Fred Jones   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I am so glad that both candidates are staying away from all the bs mud slinging. What I want to know from Sen Obama is why does he have a problem saluting our flag???? I really have a problem with that.

Chris   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

More moderating, less instigating Wolf!

carl   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

if hillary gets the nomination, the hard core christian coalition/neo-cons will be out in droves. Carl Rove is allready predicting hillarys nomination and is preparing the right wing machine against the clintons. we as democrats need someone in the white house that will bring in moderates, independents and republicans. hillary does a great job in the senate, she can stay there.

Shelly   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

SHUT UP HILLARY!!!!! Why is she allowed to talk on and on and on. This is ridiculous!

Landas   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Clinton seem to be more informed and more commanding

april   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

They must have had an agreement to be each other's VP!! This is what I have been hoping for. It is too obvious; they have had some soort of agreement!

Nick   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Wolf Blitzer needs to stop trying to insert "swipes" into this conversation. These Jerry Springer tactics are shameful, and make a mockery of whatever professionalism CNN pretends to have.

ellie   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

They are both awesome. HOWEVER, Obama heals….Hillary stabs at old sores, unfortunately. WHO IS MORE ELECTIBLE? I'm getting flashbacks of Newt Gingrich style congress…stalemate! LET'S LOOK AT BIG PICTURE!

kris dawson   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

i just want to say to both of them how can you clean up someone else house if yours is not clean america is backwards it seems like in america you have to make at lease 16 dollars an hours just to live how can they change that.

K Bauer   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

why is evryone elso the problem and Israel never seems to take any blame…. lets see …Wolf Blitzer.

Herb   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

The presidents number one job is to run the military to protect the United States of America. Not to promote socialized health care or kiss a forgein governments butt, including Mexico.

I had hopes for both Hillary and Obama because I'm quite certain the next president will be a Democrat.

However, this isn't a debate-It's a ridiculous feel good democrat rally. Nothing of substance–what a shame.

Bill Clinton   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Wish I were there to inject some good ol' boy bile, dang!

Karen   January 31st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Both look terrific. However, I loved Hillary's statement that it took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush, and it will take a Clinton to clean up after the second Bush. Go Hillary!

Teacher4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

What is this – a dinner party? Hilary's comment "we are having such a good time." TOO FUNNY!!! It is nice to see how civil this conversation is – the Democrats make me proud this year!!!

Joe   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

QUIT the love fest GIVE ME ANSWERS…Subsidies=tax…say it and be truthful with me…Washington double talk continues..

Tamara   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

experience builds good judgment. i just can't believe people would overlook that for a "hands across America" moment.

to the folks who advocate a Clinton/O'Bama ticket – who would be on top ;-) ? the sad thing is, reports state they hate each other too much to do it. that would be the dream, however. Clinton as Pres, O'Bama as vice for 8 years, then O'Bama for 8 years. i could really get behind that!

karol   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

It seems like Wolfe B. is for Clinton. I hate that he shows his bias.

Leanne   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

For Both:

As the nation is cultivating a new generation of voters, how will you as the President of the USA revolutionize the diverse cultures into a "One nation under GOD" perspective when it relates to equal rights issues?

Curt   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Civil debate – but Obama is right about looking forward, rather than dynastic continuance.

Jeff, Rathdrum ID   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Wolf just go bow down and kiss Clinton foot, and you are so biased!!!!

XXO   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Wolf is trying to stir it up. STOP IT! Finally an issued base dialogue, so Wolf chill.

rose h.sweeney   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

GOOD DEBATE!

PERSONALLY, THE INMIGRATION ISSUE IS WHAT WE LEGAL HISPANICS ARE PAYING ATTENTION TO. I JUST WOULD LIKE TO SEE EITHER MRS. HILLARY OR MR. OBAMA TO RECOGNIZE THAT THERE ARE MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN TAXES BEING PAID EVERY YEAR TO THE IRS OFFICE BY ILLEGAL INMIGRANTS UNDER THE "TAX ID PROGRAM" .THIS IS WITH THE HOPE THAT IN THE FUTURE THEY WILL HAVE A CHANCE TO QUALIFIED FOR A LEGAL STATUS.

Justin Mills   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

I love how great Hillary is at avoiding the question.

23 CA

Jason   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

You know, I came into this thinking Obama, but Clinton is doing a fantastic job… Her policies (when we get them) seem well thought out, multifaceted and very well communicated.

keith, PA   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Are we watching the same debate? Obama is clearly the best choice for President. Clear, concise and direct answers. 8 Years of the Clintons was enough. Go Obama!!!!

scott   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

WOW sounds like obama, is trying to ride on RON PAUL's coat tails on the war !!!

Philip   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Obama seems to be stuttering a lot tonight. He is not his typical "smoothness".
Hillary is pure perfection and addressing the issues. Her message is very clear.

Clinton   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Obama is not President material. Look at the way he holds himself. He may be come across as eloquent but his speech patterns and the way he holds himself evokes nervousness. He is not in position to meet with world leaders. His naivity and wilingness to meet and negotiate with the seven most evil leaders in the world will make the Democratic party and his candidacy weak and vulnerable in this next election, not to mention put our country in jeopardy should he get elected. Hillary has my vote. As a male, I think it is time for our party to deliver and promote a candidate that is not only female but one who has a lifetime of experience which will make her an effective leader on the issues that our country desperately needs at this time.

Anna   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Hillary has actual answers for our problems, not "visions and hope and "change" VERY sick of the word CHANGE… what? do they think we all want the same thing for the next 4 years? Yes we will have a change in the white house, that said…
I think Clinton has real answers and real soulutions. I think that personal debt is the bottom line problem in this country. Everyone ran out and got a "Mcmansion" for thousands more than they could afford, piling up personal debt. Could they ask a question about the federal reserve and interest rates, and personal debt ?
I think my vote just went to Hillary…. Alan Greenspan's book adresses how each president delt with the federal reserve. How will each of these canidates deal with the federal reserve?

Ben   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

I think Hillary Clinton is clearly the stronger candidate in this race. She has the experience and knowledge to provide the kind of strong leadership that this country clearly needs. Go Hillary, you have my vote!

kelley   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Hillary is a supporter of corporations first with a "trickle down" mentality.

Mike   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

why is my comment waiting on moderation when others have clearly been posted after mine and have not?

Alexander   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

I REALLY HOPE THEY ASK BOTH CANDIDATES WHERE THEY STAND ON THE ISSUE CONCERNING STEM CELL RESEARCH.

JD   January 31st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

What will happen to spending with the military as the war ends. Both claim to end the war, but the military is already lacking due to funding policies. Who will form a policy to keep our military trained and equipped during both times of war and peace?

Frank   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I would like to hear some questions about things that have a direct impact on our lives like fuel prices.

Afghan Rocky   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I like answers of both of them in regards with Iraq war, however, Hillary's answer was more humane and philanthropic!

fred hubany   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Im a retired military ,served in vietnam, and promised health care future military personell put their lives on the line?why is it that we are involved with global conflicts,are we not paying for nato?

Craig J. Kurker Jr.   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

unity???? they are supposed to be debating! take a stance. tey look like wimps up there. give me a real debate.

Luke   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Because of the division in this country Debbie… we need someone who can unite.Hillary divides….many Republicans oppose her from the start…We need bipartisianship.

farida   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I wish I could tell Obama to talk inspirational he isn't in his element

tracy   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama has it all wrong on legalizing driver license to illegal immigrants. By giving them licenses they will then be able to apply for trucking jobs such as FEDEX,UPS and any other transportation jobs. Here you are allowing illegals to infiltrate another sector of the economy .This move will most likely hurt the transportation industry because again you'll have low wages being paid out to illegals and drivers on the unemployment line. What'snext illegalsl being allowed to get pilot licenses?

atl2califorbama   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I feel as though obama is clearly winning this debate!!!

foxyroxy   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Gooo Hillary! What a comeback….it took a Clinton to clean up behind from the first Bush….and I'm afraid it will take a 2nd Clinton to clean up behind the second Bush. She said it, yes she did! You gotta love……this is the best election year ever! Hillary is so polished and fluent. It is very easy to listen to her. Obama has a hard time expressing himself. I have to listen hard to try and make sense of his answers.

hardworkinman   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

this line of thinking is why osama got away the first three times he was offered up on a silver platter

joseph   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

je suis fier de devenir americain il y'a une annee.J'espere que les americains vont montrer au monde que notre systeme de democratie est undiscutable et voter pour Obama. Pourquoi? D'abord, on peut clairement voir l'honnetete dans les yeux de cette personne. Deuxiement, ca va etre le plus grand evenement dans l'histoire de notre pays d'avoir un africain- americain en tant que president.

Katherine   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I agree with bronko91, that Clinton cleaning up after a Bush comment is definately quote worthy… so is that "we're having such a good time" after Obama's dig…

DRC   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

RE: Nate in NOLA — Hillary Clinton is experienced enough to know she cannot make a commitment to end the war, for all the reasons she stated. She also indicated she plans to have everyone out within 16 months, and would prefer 12 months. Give her a break! Can you do better?

Biff Holbrook   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

We need Sen Clinton to fix us after the secound Bush!! Her devotion and experience is much more receiveable than any other canidate including repubilcans

jd1   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I've never seen so much unsuredness than when Hillary talks about Iraq. She doesn't have a clue.

And Obama's full of one-liners to get a crowd reaction.

Paula   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

It seems a shame that Wolf trys to protect Hilary from getting offended by
Obama's comments. Supposedly she can stand on her own and not
need this. Maybe we do not need a female that trys to show that she is
the weaker sex after all.

Susan   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Getting really sick of Hillary's tired old remark about it taking a Clinton to clean up after a Bush – how many times is she going to roll this same old line out. Have those of you that thought it was a fantastic one-liner not been listening to any of her prior speeches?

Go Obama!

Nikki   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Since when is a statement of fact a "swipe"?

Mohammad Khan   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Thus far the debate has been pretty neutral but i have to say tht Obama seems to over the top. At this debate i haven't seen him fire up so far but i do look forward to it. He seems a more reasonable candidate so far and if he keeps things up with the same pace and attitude then he sure has my vote.

The argument that he lacks experience is as old as Sanskrit and to take it up against him seems illogical to me. You don’t need to be an agent of experience to be an agent of change. Many Leaders including Bil Clinton lacked experience when they took office or commanding positions. So I would judge a candidate based on his attitude and what he commits with his mouth and then most of all there record. Seeing Obama come in power inmy own state, my experience with the change he brought to Illinois has been pleasant one.

Gud Luk Senator!

Dave   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

It's important to note, in regard to public debt, that (as of 2005 according to the US Treasury) the majority of the debt is held INTERNALLY not EXTERNALLY. Foreigners held about 25% of the total public debt in 2005. Another note: public debt is easily refinanced. Because there is virtually no risk of default by the Federal Government, new bonds attract strong demand.

Gail B   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Why does Obama need to be on a ticket with Hillary? Why cant Hillary be on a ticket with Obama? The GOP will tear Hillary a new one on for her vote on the war and bubba ignoring Bin Laden.

nashville4obama   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

go obama!!!
he may not have all the years hillary yaps about, but he definitely has the wisdom not to get us in anhyother one of these iraq messes!!!

Ron W   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama has a point about NOT being in Iraq for 100 years. That is crazy to me. I can't see why the Republicans want to stay in war that does not make us any safer.

jeremy williams   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Haven't the democrats had control in congress for the last 3 years and have they promoted any change NOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ciji Portis   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama had a great answer!

Celie   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama, hands down. Never supported this war in the first place. Never would have. Lead us home.

Curtis K   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

The pundits were wrong in New Hampshire and they will be wrong again on Tuesday… OBAMA FOR AMERICA!!!

Joey   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

We don't negociate with terrorists…

matt   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

obama is excelent, he has my vote, I don't like Hillary, America need change and a new politic !!!!!!!

Jessica   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

My question to the Obama and Clinton would be their view on Global Warming and the perceived environmental crisis throughout the world. a) Do you believe there is such a phenomenon? b) What do you plan to do within the US to reduce our carbon and greenhouse gas emissions? Carbon tax? Carbon cut-off? c) How would you employ the rest of the world (especially China and Japan) in lowering their own emissions and researching more?

…Why shouldn't these gas companies (who amazingly still manage to turn $40 and $50 billion in profit in recent years) be required to spend X-amount on researching more efficient automobiles, etc.???

I haven't heard near enough on the environment from ANY candidate…what's the use in fixing the economy, healthcare, court systems, etc. if there is NO PLANET EARTH to live on…no plants, no animals, extreme heat, extreme cold, extreme weather…I'm ashamed at the world's wastefulness and carelessness on the beautiful planet we are priveleged to inhabit alongside millions of more beautiful and interesting creatures…PRAISE GOD!! I'm just thankful I was born 22 yrs. ago as opposed to 30-50 years from now!

rebecca   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama, talks in such verbose ways! tell us how obama! how are you going to do everything you say! I don't want words I want actions!

Jason   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Go Barrack. Great answer to ending the war in IRAQ

evelyn   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

i think they both have a lot of potential and it would defenetly make a difernece to this country to have the first woman president or first africanamerican president in my case i would love to see obama in the white house as the leader of our country

Rollison   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Cleaning up after the 2nd bush has been overused! She has said that over and over again. Get a new line.

AL   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

A more civilized debate than the last one.

Florence campbell   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

hillarys blowing his doors off

TS   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

THANK YOU OBAMA!!! Finally someone brings up the fact that he has to beat a Republican as well- not just sway democrats. How can Clinton win the more liberal democrats that Obama could?

M.D.   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Barack Rocks!!! He is just what we need!! New Blood

gr   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

How interesting that we are hearing more out of Obama's mouth than "change", however he still falls short on substance.

Greg   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Great answer on Iraq from Obama – Hillary cannot contend with him on foreign policy the way Obama can hang with her on Healthcare.

Jon W   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

ASK HILLARY CLINTON THIS: Did Bill Clinton write that line for you? (It took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush. It might take a Clinton to clean up after the second one.)

S Jay   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Hillary is filibustering. Well, not technically, but she needs to stop talking and SAY something.

Dan Sherren   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

This is NOT a debate. This is an interview at best! CNN is NOT helping decide who to vote for using this approach. This so-called 'debate' is a weak attempt at the real thing. In the interest of your career Wolf, I suggest you opt out of conducting these in the future if this is your idea of a debate.

bukk   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

to Carolyn Miller……I bet u weren't saying that last week when they were throwing knives at each other. where were you then…?

Joan   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Oh yes, it takes Clinton to clean up after the second Bush, AND the second Bush was in the office for 8 years, doing double the dammage of the first Bush. It will take 2 Clintons to clean up after that.

Krystle   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

and if yall would remember, when Hillary was asked if she ever planned to run for President she said no, time and time again, and now, she has gone against her word and is running….

how is she qualified to run for President? she has NO military experience, she has no concept of military strategy or the consequences of what will happen if we remove our troops from Iraq…..

ta   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

There goes Barack again…"I was against the war from the beginning." What else do you offer?

Tom   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama, since you said you want to end the war. Why did you vote to fund it in the U.S. Senate?

Tyler ( Atlanta )   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I like Obama and his opinions about the war. But do you just turn the other cheek after 9/11???

ceelee   January 31st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

sorry but an administration can only drive abortions underground or keep them safe.

Ephraim   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Obama is fascinating and will certainly bring a fresh perspective in Washington.

Jim   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Great answer from Obama on the war. Perhaps he can gain some momentum. No clear winners yet.

Steve   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Is Bill Clinton healthy? Imagine Hillary in White House without Bill.

JACK   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

gREAT ANSWETR OBAMA, CHANGE OCCURS INTHE MIND!!!!!wOW

Linda   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Obama is correct on health care.

I like his answer on how we get out of Iraq…with thoughtful care.
Like his remark on the mindset that got us into this war.

We can't afford to have Bubba in the White House with his huge personality and giant ego. How will she be able to control him? Who would want to be Vice President?

Aurelia Dexter   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Senator Clinton said tonight we should help our neighbors south of the border create more jobs for their own people. I wonder how many more jobes do we send them and still have jobs here?

Courtney   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

ending the mindset that got us into war!! great point by Obama

Joe   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Hillary did not answer question about her secret health plan meetings in 1992 ( Supreme Court said these were illegal). Also, Hillary supported Goldwater in 1964…the same Goldwater who opposed the Civil Rights Act. She 's for her own power and will say anything to get it. I think tonite's civility is forced and phony, they don't like each other so why not have an honest heated argument , that's how we get to see the real people.

Kevin McNulty   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Hilliary and Barack,

What in your background qualities you to be commander in chief since you have NO miliary experience and therefore do not understand military strategy?

Kevin McNulty

Maggie   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Put both of them in the White House. They're both fabulous. I have a 4 yr. old grandson that would make a better President than the one we have now.

antoinettevigilante   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

In my opinion—-Hillary's experience by far outshines Barack. I want a leader who has the experience and knows how to lead.

Bonnie   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I am a couple of years older than Hillary. Her time is over, she is too old for our country at this time. She doesn't have have any engery and doesn't speak to the next generation.

ELVIS in N. VA   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

i think Hillary is a little too liberal for the national presidential election. Her plans seem to spend, spend, spend. Obama is also liberal but i think he is a little more centered. Both Obama and Hillary need a way to reach to the moderates to ensure a democrat victory. They are going to have to work with republicans when one of them reaches the oval office.

Jeff   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Clinton is just being honest and realistic

B   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

But neither candidate – Rep or Dem – has addressed the concern and handling of the troops once they RETURN. There are a ton of logistics issues involved and the state of the Veterans Affairs Administration is in shambles …

nick   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

They should get together pres and v.p, THEY WOULD WIN !

Barbara   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

All I can think of when I see you (Hillary) being President is "What will Bill be doing" He will have a lot of time on his hands. We all know that this isn't good. This could be distracting for you while you are trying to run our country. You shouldn't talk about President Bush and irresponsiblity.

laurie   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Good answer on Iraq, Obama. Well thought out and right! You show the sound judgment we need.

Debbie , Cinna NJ   January 31st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I was a Republican who can't stand Bush and has been waiting for 8 years to get him out.. But Bush is not the whole Republican party …there are moderates out there who can get things done and be the best at National security unlike or Hillary or Obama…. Mac is Back!!!!

Hillary at least knows what she is talking about…Obama is just about good rhetoric…this is not American Idol folks…. we need someone who knows what the heck they are doing……we need a SERIOUS candidate, not someone who knows how to talk good or tell great jokes…

Fort Valley State University   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Georgia for Barack Obama

kathleen Lien   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I believe financial aid should be made available to so many U.S. citizens who want to attend colleges or universities. It is cumbersome and extremely expensive and interest added is compounded from the date of origin. It seems there is more effort being made to educate the illegal aliens than there is to help our own children many of whom will never be able to realize their dreams.

BWP3000   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

The Democrat Debate is once again a snoozer. CNN with their liberal bias will not ask the candidates the hard questions! See how Wolf Blitzer was persistent against Obama on not answering a paticular question, but Hillary just has to give her usual fluff answers with no questioning from Blitzer!!! I cannot wait to have a Democrat in office ruin the economy, our wonderful progress in Iraq, and most of all OUR COUNTRY!!! GO HILLARY AND OBAMA!!!

Patty   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Love watching the debates, but I hate Obama's finger motions. When did it start to be okay to point everytime you talk. I would love to tie his hands together and see if he could talk.

Kristi   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I fear Hilary as president because she is so out of touch with people. When asked how she would compete against Romney's strength in business, she dodged the question by insulting Bush and saying that this country is not a business. Yes, that is true. However, I believe our government should operate more like a business. The American people would benefit greatly. In business, if you spend more than you take in, you're out of business. To survive, you have to find a way to provide your customers (in this case your citizens) with all the services they demand without raising prices (in this case taxes). This forces businesses to operate as efficiently as possible while still providing the highest quality products. Our government could stand to be a lot more efficient. How many people have ever gotten frustrated while dealing with a government office because of its inefficiencies? they are allowed to be inefficient because unlike businesses, if they run out of money, they can just raise our taxes or cut services. They don't have to be innovative and find ways to operate efficiently and still provide high quality services. So Hilary may laugh off that question, but it's only because she knows she can't compete with Romney in that regard. Or she just really is that stupid.

Jim Petre   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I think that it is unfair that Clinton was able to say "it'll take a Clinton to fix up what Bush screwed up" or something like that, and then Obama wasn't even allowed to respond.

Susan   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Why, Why, Why did Obama hold Hillary's chair for her at the beginning of the debate? Very, Very tacky and extremely sexist.

Barbara   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Will someone please tell Wolf to quit interrupting Obama and treat him the way he is treating Clinton!

Brian (Arkansas)   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I'm a New Yorker who transplanted to Arkansas 20 years ago. I've lived under the Clinton administration. Arkansas is ranked 50th in salary, 49th in education, that's the legacy of the Clinton's. There's been nothing but substandard leadership and high drama with the Clinton's for years. Please people do your research, realize the Clinton's do more talking and charming than anything positive.

Ann   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Give me a decent candidate please!! Our country is divided and we are focusing on candidates from both parties that will only continue to keep us divided. Both sides have good points and good policy ideas, but we need a candidate that can stand up and truly think about the needs and values of our country's citizens. This means that we need an independent capable of reaching across party lines, who will create a cabinet built from all parties and work to make some real changes. Right now I am somewhat ashamed to be an American if the current choices from both the Republican and Democratic parties are the best we've got. Someone with some character, guts and integrity step up please!!!!

Paul   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I agree with Obama: the Chinese are laughing all the way to the bank because the Americans are dumping so much money into wars in Iraq, Afganistan and conflicts around the world.

simone   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

wow, nice to see candidates act civil towards each other
answer the questions, and agree on points they both agree on
I am canadian, but would love to be able to vote…I have been riveted this
time around..and HILLARY IS THE ONE FOR ME

detroit   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

If the job of the president was to debate on television, I would vote for Hilary. HOWEVER, that is not the job of a president and I stand behind Obama 110% He can lead and inspire the change that needs to happen.

Jamie   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Edwards, should back Obama!

Nancy August   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Sen. Hiliary Clinton is certainly winning this debate and is without a doubt proving that she is capable of winning the White House! She is knowledgeable and strong! Go Hiliary!!

CeeMore   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

On the Iraq issue, they both are the same. Obama has a more concise vision.

joe shoe   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Barack is a better public speaker

wesley   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

The first Clinton lead to the second Bush!!!!

Diane Peoples   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

The next President of this United Statesis HILLERY CLINTON.
TONIGHT, SHE SPEAKS AS A CONFIDENT, KNOWLEDGABLE WOMAN WHO
WILL GIVE HER ALL TO HELP AMERICA COME BACK TO LIFE!
HER EXPERIENCE IN HER LIFE IS THE GREATEST RESUME FOR THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES!

Michael Henry   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I believe Senator Obama is as sharp as ever tonight. I was recently drove up to South Carolina, from Mississippi, because I believe that Sen. Obama is the candidate of change and this is evident from his willingness to inform the people in a honest and open way. Senator Obama to me shows a great wisdom and he has practical answers to hard problems. Keep up the good work Senator, and when you become President, just know that you have some good friends in Mississippi.

Dana Carter   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Candidates: I find it interesting both of you are promising programs to save the world but neither of you have mentioned cutting government wasteful spending as a resource to pay for their "special interest" Tell me why not.

Greg   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Not muddy or fuzzy – Obama has his own Shock and Awe – the Iraqi gov't would be shocked if we pulled out – perhaps the worldwide wake up call that is needed.

David   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

NUMommie….no offense….but that's NOT a reason to vote for or against someone

mary kay maggio   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

question:
for both
what, if anything, are you going to do about getting back the money, our money, that has been stolen by some of the contractors in Iraq through fraud, waste, bribes, and who knows what other ways, during the Iraq "war"?

Bonnie   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I've already voted today! I went with Hillary. She know what the hell she's talking about . He doesn't have the experience yet. Give him a few years and then you'll see another JFK!!!!

Cheryl from Upstate, NY   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Obama is definitly the man. I'm waiting for Hilary to shed some more tears to get votes.

BK   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

We are looking at HISTORY.

The FIRST Black American President !

GO

OBAMA

Greg   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary looks like shes falling asleep.

GLC   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Obama doesn't want us to have permanent bases in Iraq?

Okay.

Study history.

World War II.

We won that war.

We still have bases in Germany and in many, many other countries. Those bases are permanent and serve to strengthen our country at home and abroad.

Obama doesn't get it.

The Democrats don't get it.

But, I forgot, the Democrats don't believe in studying history! Or in reading and learning about history. They're too busy cheating on their spouses, being power-hungry, doing drugs, and sucking up to Hollywood.

Martez in Chicago   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Wow $200 Billion dollars a year on Bush's war? Great way to squander our milk and honey. Go Obama Go

erik   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

experience as what? a first lady? Obama and hillary are pretty even when it comes to experience.

Marlene in CLT   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary doesn't know when to shut up. She rambles and rarely actually answers the question. Boring. Obama is to the point and much more well spoken.

Frank   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary, given the fact that General Petraeus is most accountable for the situation in Iraq & you seem to have a plan for the withdrawal of our troops…have you ever sat down one on one with General Petraeus and had a frank discussion as to our current situation!

J R   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

My biggest fear with the Dems is too much government. They have a reputation for that. Hope they address this issue.

Joe   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Two democrats having a debate is more enlightening than four republicans having a debate.There is no doubt whatsoever that the next president of the this United States will be a democrat,republicans had their opportunity and they blew it."Go Hillary-Go Obama"

Dani   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Obviously the "clinton" clean up wasn't as good as some may think . . . otherwise . . a second bush wouldn't have happened . . . And . . . if we, yes we, allow her to be the democratic nominee . . we are going to guarantee another 4 years of a republican white house . . . GO OBAMA!!!

jen   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Great debate…CA for Obama.

How in the world can people vote for Hillary when she is so quick to blame the Republican party for the failures of the past 8 years. Bush wasn't able to make all of the poor decisions it was with Democates in each House. She is already alienating people she would have to work with in the White House…Why can't she seem to bring parties together for our (America's) benefit not make it so blue and red. It makes me SICK! I think Obama believes he can bring all Americans together with the common goals that both parties want for the United States. I BELIEVE he CAN and WILL!!

Scott   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Mark, you have no clue when it comes to the disgraceful legacy of the Clintons.

Gerald   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

My wife said that Obama seems to be composed and structured while Clinton seems to be emotional. Her question to me is can we trust our country in the hands of emotions?

Jenn (Pa)   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Been a democrat since I could vote but will vote for John McCain in a heartbeat over Clinton. Just another member of the establishment.

Rosalyn Savel   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I think that Obama and Hillary are sounding more like running mates than opposing figures. They are basically agreeing with one another and making a strong case for a Democratic candidate to be elected president. this coming election. Frankly, I think they are "tooting" their own horns. As far as the content of their plans and statements, everything sounds as if the problems we face as a nation can and will be solved with either one elected as president. Promises, promises….we'll see.

lONI   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

It seems to me that CNN is showing it's bias once again by allowing Hillary to dominate this debate by allowing her unlimited time to answer questions uninterupted and by constantly interupting Obama's responses.

Hillary has had her chance, eight years as first lady and years as a senator; if she has accomplished so much why is she hiding her records from her days as first lady.

mrman   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Same old Iraq questions as usual…..

How about this "Do you question President Bush's intentions in Iraq?"

JOSEPH   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I apologize for not spelling BARACK correctly.

lisa   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I was so stressed this was going to be all negative like last night. let's just decide on the issues. thank you CNN!

NYer for Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Senator Clinton voted for the war in Iraq. Case closed. What is her excuse for that miscast vote? Fooled by George Bush jr? Then she voted to pave the way for war in Iran? Come on. Get real.

Get Real   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Trust me, if Hillary last name was not Clinton 50 percent of her supporters would be backing someone else.

Hillary is not her Husband, and what Bill did for this county has nothing to do with her. If she can't keep organization and peace in her own house, what do you really think she will do for this country?

I like Bill and if he were running I would vote for him, but for her to count being first lady as experience is the most ridiculous thing i have ever heard.

Joan Brightman   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Why is Wolf Blitzer letting Hillary do all the talking?

akjohn01   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I think Hillary looks and sounds good. I am not seeing the wonderful Obama speaks off. Obama lost my vote with him and his opinions of people using immigrants as "scapegoats" because they are unemployed. When in fact this is a fact. I would like to know how are they going to ease the burden or these extremely high gas prices. I have to sometimes make the decision whether to pay for car insurance or put gas in my car to go to work.

Donna in PA   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Sen. Clinton is cleaning Obama's clock. I am so proud of her.

Lou   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

A very cordial debate, much better than the Republicans and full of substance

Mia Lambert   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Why can't the USA have Health Insurance like some European Country's ?
Is it really that hard ?
They deduct our taxes and Medicare from our checks why not our Healthcare ?

Roxanne   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Why does Wolf always cut off Obama mid-sentence and not Hillary? Where's AC 360 when you need him?

price jason   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Two excellent candidates with essentially the same fundamental beliefs in the problems that exist and potential solutions…the problem I am dealing with in regard to my decision is:

Obama seems to be much more charismatic individual. With all the crap we are in abroad and the tense political partisanship that exists in Washington — do we need that Charismatic Diplomat more than

Clinton's edge in experience.

Side note: I do feel that Obama is sincere when he says he wants to get rid of lobbyist — which I can honestly say I have never thought a politician to be sincere in that statement.

Thoughts anyone?

sboyd   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Barack is very presidential – I can't wait to see him debate in the fall!

Cain Johnson   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary seems to know the issues more, even though it seems bringing her back is a thing of the past

Ladyvet1   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I'm really enjoying the exchange tonight on major issues that are affecting our country. Our country is in a real domestic and foreign affairs mess. We need someone in the oval office who will bring bi-partisan lawmakers together to accomplish the clean up of the mess, not someone who will continue the same policy making that has gone on for over 20 years. Our children deserve a "fresh start" and I don't see how anyone other Sen. Obama being able to pull it off. He may not be able to do it in one term, how can? I am convinced that with his wisdom, his attitude, and his innate ability to bring about a sense of calm, he can begin to bring us out of the mess we're in. Mrs. Clinton is a wonderful politician but being a woman who is about her age, I can't see her having the stimula nor the fortitude to really fight the "good ole boy" establishment. I don't believe that her character is strong enough. Also, I don't think we need a "three-peat" in the White House with her and x-President Clinton. Obama is my choice because he has focus and he doesn't owe any political debts.

J.Baxter   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

would somebody please explain to me why we can go into another country and tell them what is right from wrong?And yet we don't go into Mexico and tell them how to keep their people home. And why do we continue to buy goods from communist countries? Why don't we have our own military watching our borders when we have them protecting other countries borders?

Mickey Hagen   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

More promises, promises, lies, lies lies.

knut   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary just didn't anwser the question again! More polished blah blah blah.

Jeanne   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

this is a very smart man!

Tracy (Georgia)   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I am 42 years old and sick of Bush, Clinton, Bush and Maybe Clinton. We need new blood, new energy, new faces, new strength. The Clinton's hands are not clean from this mess we are in. They need to move out of the way!

Richard Strauss   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Given the fiscal mess that the Bushies have gotten us into, it seems that a tax increase and spending cuts will be inevitable. What spending would you cut and how will you sell that to the moderate republicans and independents you will need to win the election?

Chris   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I believe Hillary is just plain disingenuous. She is not forthcoming with information. She's not responding directly to some pointed questions.

I'd like to know why Hillary refuses to comment on taking money from PACs and lobbiests. How can she bring about change when she supports big money? Big money doesn't represent you and me, it represents the wealthy people and big corporations.

I believe she could be more effective initally because of her connections as a result fo being a Clinton, not because of her so called experience. Unfortunately, I think that effectiveness would be short lived and all the Presidency would do for her is make her family even wealthier.

I want real change. Enough status quo, enough corruption, enough of big money influencing our lives!

Vickie Miller   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

It appears that both Hillary and Obama have opinions that are the same, WHEN WILL THEY REALLY GET IT? Can thay put asign their ego's and see that maybe we need both of them to get this county back on track. I have always told my staff that one person was my right hand and the other person was my left hand. I would be a fool to think that I can do everything on my own, not to mention on the first day!!

Get real let's work together, they will make a great team, forget about who is going to be the president!!

VBM

Aimee   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

OBAMA…I choo choo choose you!!

Collette   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Then Obama to clean up after a clinton?

Jim Puskar   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Both candidates are making excellent presentations of their ideas on the issues. Makes a fella proud to be a Democrat. Too bad Wolf Blitzer is so set on getting them to devolve into arguments on minor issues like who was first to make various statements on the issues or whether immigrants get drivers' licenses.

ray   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

wow, we are going to leave Iraq, and going to have Universal Healthcare.:)) NOw come on can really get thisdone with all the money in Washington???

SA   January 31st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

So far a great debate. Hillary is so incredibly well versed. How interesting to watch Obama's deadpan expression when she made the bush clinton, bush clinton remark. His face is worth a thousand words.
She is a doer He only the dreamer.
She is not being baited by his SUBTLE swipes. Wolf, good for you. You are being fair as usual.
How many time does Obama have to say he did not vote for the war…kinda of reminds me of Guiliani's 911 mantra.

Shawne   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

So Hillary doesn't reallt have any 'plan' for pulling out of Iraq after all, does she?
While she continues to try and 'act Presidential', Obama tells it straight – I believe him.

I wish CNN would not be so clearly biased in how the moderators apporach these debates – it is very discouraging, especially when a citizen is trying to get a fair sense of who these candidates are.

Present clear questions with equal time for both to answer, please.

JEWS 4 OBAMA   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

OBAMA IS A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.
I think it is imporant for Obama to win the election to end US Imperialism in the middle east, for this has made more "TERRORISTs". BUSH killed thousands of them, but created a generation of millions. Obama is the right canidate for the better!!

Cswoods   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

I am fed up with you Clinton supporters using Obama's studderness as a vantage point. Give the man break! He is doing the best he can! Let's not forget the man did attended and graduated from two Ivy League universities! There must be about 300 words going through his brain every 5 seconds! Okay!!!

L. Egan   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Hillary comes across as a know it all bully. Who wants to have her and Bill again in the Whitehouse? They have proved to be very slimy, secretive and phony. Let's move on from the politics of destruction and greed and ambition that the Clinton's pride themselves on. They want nothing but MORE POWER, not what is good for the American people…let Barack have a shot!!!

in TX   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

I'm sorry but I just realized tonight Hillary just really doesn't get it… not at all… having the first minority or female as President is not the kind of change we the American people are wanting (its good but not what we mean we say change).

We are looking for the change of our Government working together and including us in the process… uniting this country towards a common cause… if she doesn't get that, get ready for another era of government decisions that is clueless to the needs of the common everday person.

Audrey   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

i would like to know how both candidates would keep jobs in the United States. We have companies all over the US closing up shop and opening up companies in other countries because it is cheaper.

sinbad   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama just doesn't have a clue on the military issues, who is advising him on the issue??? Quit studdering……. muddy and fuzzy????

TS   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Why isnt there a camera behind Blitzer and others so that the capture the Canidates eyes?

laurie   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

No, Hillary. We all remember that you were the one who didn't read the NIE report before voting to go to war. It is arguably the most important decision you ever made and you made it with half information and you got it wrong.

cindy   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

All their plans sound well and good but which one of them is going to put their money where their mouth is???????????

keith carey   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Go OBAMA you are owning ! Hillary is copying you , as usual.

Craig from Seattle WA   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

The urgent crowds out the important. The 2 most important issues of the 21st century are Global Warming and Nuclear Terrorism. I'd love to hear the candidates address these long term and ultimately most important issues.

I'm impressed how respectful the candidates have been of each other.

ILIJA MALINKOV   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Great men with great and originals ideas wiling to solve many issues concerning this country for long time. I hope that words you saying now it`s real and our future will be much brighter.

Nate in NOLA   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Hillary cannot commit to ending the war. Obama commits to this. That's a clear difference.

Carolyn Miller   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

These TWO candidates make me proud to be a DEMOCRAT!!! WOW!!! What a debate! What unity!

Mark A. Voytas   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

My dislike and distrust of Senator Hillary Clinton is so much more solidified after tonight's debate.

1. Has Senator Clinton ANSWERED any question? NO! Listen to the replay on CNN. NO question was answered.

Wise up America! Vote this woman out of the public arena. It is your future and our children's future at stake. Can you honestly say to your kids that Senator Clinton is a role model?

PLEASE VOTE FOR ANY CANDIDATE OTHER THAN SENATOR CLINTON.

Ask any owner of a small business if any of Senator Clinton's policies are good for them. None will react positively. Why is this important? These small business owners write you a paycheck each week!!!! Think about it!

vIRGIE sMITH   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

I THINK THE AUDIEMCE APPLAUSE AND CHEERS ARE VERY

DISRUPTIVE……..i WOULD HAVE LIKED THE COMMENTATOR TO

HAVE STOPPED THE AUDIENCE FROM THEIR DEMONSTRATIONS

SO THAT WE CAN LISTEN AND HEAR THE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

WITHOUT SOMEONE TRYING TO SWAY OUR OPINIONS BEFORE WE CAN

EVEN HEAR THE DEBUT ON THE SUBJECTS….

IT IS ALMOST AS THOUGH SOMEONE HAD PACKED THE HALL. WITH THEIR

OWN SUPPORTERS.

Bob Fournier   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

As a Canadian who lived in Washington, D.C. during part of the Kennedy era and has always loved America and followed its politics I have to tell you that my gut reaction is – My American friends if you want the same- old with tweeking, vote for Hillary, if you want JFK-like leadership and real change vote for Obama.Are you up for it? It's been a long time……get back your pride.
God Bless America.
Bob Fournier

todd   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

just before the 2nd break, hillary gave a nice speech about how it may take a clinton to clean up again, but she didn't really answer the question. that being, HOW can she bring about change ?

I wish someone would say at the end of her long winded speech, "okay, but you didn't answer the question".

the fact is she will NOT be an agent of change because ALL the republicans she will need to work with will see "another clinton". Only Obama can bring that kind of real change.

POD   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Two sides of the same coin. They did more agreeing than debating. What a terrific team Hilery and Obma would make on the same ticket.

bronko91   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

A Clinton cleaned up from the first Bush and we need another Clinton to clean from this Bush has to be the best comment of the entire election.

Debbie   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

If both candidates are for change, what changes have they done since they became senators? Everybody knows that the president is just a fugure-head and the Senate in the House of Representatives do the real work. So why have they failed?

Jon   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

The real question that all of us must face is who between the 2 of these people are the most electable against McCain or Romney. Obama has more charisma and more original ideas. Bill will be telling Hillary what to do. Who in the world would want to be the VP with Hillary as the president? Bill will be the VP.

dt   January 31st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Stop with the Bush Bashing already. . . especially Hilliary. . . . Give us some new information about how you would make us better.

And

How can Hilliary be proud of Bills years in the White House. . . yea. . .real proud. . .hello. . . . impeachment???

u w gustavseb   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

McCain for President

dufus   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

all this wonkiness is her turf. she wins tonight, she wins on tuesday, and she's in our family room for at least 4 years

volunteers4Obama   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Careful getting out as careless as were getting in

steve   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I am trying to decide which one of these I am going to support. They should be debate between themselves, not them and Bush.

Linlo   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Uh Uh…..Hillary stumbling over herself on Iraq – answer the question!

Lynn Cappelli   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary…..a scripted politico. And I for one, would never vote for
her ever. I am a democrat and TIRED, so TIRED of her two-faced
answers. Please don't start crying Mrs. Clinton.
Thank you.
Signed: a 53 yr-old DEMOCRAT from NYC

CB   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary Clinton sure talks and talks alot. It just seems that Barack is not allowed nearly as much time.

Sam   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

It takes more than being a good motivational speaker to be president. It takes experience. Hillary has it hands down! America wake up and don't be taken for another ride. We can't afford another mistake like what was made when bush was elected twice!

Jackson   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I look forward to the next 8 years of peace and prosperity! Hillary Clinton, along with Barack Obama will take us there!

believr   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

i love them both — how refreshing to hear actual answers to the questions! what a change from last night's debate! America we need to unite behind whchever of these candidates is the nominee. They WILL bring changes! They are both right and so much better than the alternative There is hope for America!

Tim   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Can we try asking some hard Questions… Like why do you like socialism over capitolism…. Can you name one country that has prospered under socialism.

td   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary had a great opening comment not scripted…! she appears to be more confident and showing great leadership/presidential skills…staying on her points of issues and great answers…GO HILLLARY CLINTON!!!!

Irma Letson   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Ask eash: What is your position on the "pre-emptive strike"? Is it moral, ethical, legal?

Michael   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Why is Hillary getting all of the questions?

Elena   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary is shining, it's obvious that her opinions are formed by experience. Obama is coming off as a collegiate, idealistic, inexperienced leader. Great guy with a big future, but he's also made grammatical errors! Our country will be "more safer…" annoying.

Jason   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

These two are in love compared to last nights debate. These two both rock! I still like Clinton better…I'm from IL. I would like Clinton for 8 years and then Obama for 8 years.

Dorothy   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Clinton said a great joke about needing another Clinton to clean up after Bush. Joke was funny. I like Clinton, but I think Obama is the one who can give us the change we need. Go Obama

jag-NE   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

even when she flops in some of her answers she tries to make it sound good in the end.. smart woman huh

James   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Question for Hillary: Considering the historical treatment of women in arab regions around the world, do you feel you would receive the same respect as a man and if not, what is your strategy to address?

jausti8371k   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary will be the President and Bill will be the Co-President

Adrian   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

If Shaqs ex-wife wants to play ball she can but Hillary did not decied last year that she wanted to run for president she has been perparing her whole life to serve her country.

Given   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Senator Clinton if you and senator Obama took the SAT today, who would score higher? I believe Senator Obama would have the higher score,prove to me otherwise.

moses, washington dc   January 31st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

obama president hillary vice

sam   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

HILLARY just doesn't do it for me…

Walter   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

A complete phased withdraw is 60 days would be madness. Military leaders say the surge is working. A full US withdraw right now would lead into another Vietnam.

We need to stabilize Iraq first, then withdraw.

Martin   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Reading some of the other responses….maybe a Clinton Obama will not be so bad after all. I would not mind to see a ticket like that.

Clinton as president for the first 4 or 8 years….and Obama at her side…then Obama…..for another 4 or 8 years..

WOW…A women and a black man…….i do not think you can have more change then that on one plate…..

Michael LA   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

AkishaforObama – normally I would agree with you about them needing to talk to the issues only. However, when Obama keeps pretending he's so positive, a nice guy and better than the typical politician because he won't lie or sling mud, all while acusing the Clintons of lying about his record, it is important that we know whether he is playing he same games that every other politician does. I don't mind him playing the game like everyone else, I just mind his being hypocritical about it and accusing the opposition of distorting his record or playing the race card or being insensitvie when if fact he is doing the exact same garbage himself. Two wrongs don't make a right but just like I can't stand the republicans who rage against the sin of homosexuality while they are closeted themselves, I don't like Obama pretending to be better than everyone else when he's doing the exact same thing. He lost my vote because of that, though I hope I get a chance to vote for him in 8 years when he is still so articulate and a great orater but also has some major foreign policy and legislative experience under his belt.

Amanda   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Hillary thinks being president is like playing tea time with barbies. WAKE UP SENATOR CLINTON! The US government isn't so nice. She thinks "helping" people is the biggest issue at hand. We can't HELP anyone without fixing bigger problems first. Her fairytale dream will be crushed…. GO BARAK!

Sudha   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Go Hillary! You are giving terrific answers and holding your own in an excellent way. Making your mark. Keep it up!

Jennifer   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Both are doing well. Clinton is more polished, uses less pauses and "uhs", but has had decades more training than Obama. Obama's occasional stumbles make me wonder if indeed he is being honest (wouldn't that be a nice change from a politician)?

Both are behaving well and keeping personal issues and attacks out of the debate (about time).

Now, we'll see who launches the first smear ad before the 5th.

rory edmonton, alberta   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I think Sen. Obama has a Lincolnesque quality to his stature.

Maureen   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

What a great team they would make! With Hillary as President and Barack as Vice President, the Democrats would almost be guaranteed of being in the White House for the next 16 years.

Leo   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I like the way that Obama talks untill I realize that he has not said anything at all. Hillary is the one that answers the questions straight out. I was an Edwards girl but now I think I am a Hillary girl.

sy Naqui   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Please tell Wolf that he should not show his favorable bias towards Hilary in his questions. This is unacceptable and if he continues to show his leanings, then he should be removed from future debates

Thank you.

Rob   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Hillary=defeat in November.

Sad, but true. This debate is silly, cuz Hil, with all due respect, will get her butt kicked by any Republican.

john   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

barack's line about mitt romney business sense re his campaign was great!

Jody   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Obama is not ready to be President of the United States. On the other hand, I'm not sure Hillary would represent all Americans accuratelly.

sajo   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Will someone from NOW ask why did Hillary co-sponsored a bill that would allow a pharmacist to refuse filling a birth control prescription? This was at the time when she was triangulating with Rick Santorum, kissing up to the religious right

Steve (Atlanta)   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Through the years we have had male president's and see what we got…..let the woman have a chance.

William Bennett, Chicago   January 31st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Its a shame Hillary is winning this debate. If she is the candidate, the republicans (likely Mccain) will win easily.

BamaGirl   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Pulling the troops out of Iraq will not be as easy as she makes it seem. I fear another 9/11

jason   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I don't understand how she can hate someone like she does with Bush and then want to take care of everyone in the US with healthcare. By the way, how did the state wide healthcare plan in CA go?

Max   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I have been leaning toward Obama up till now, but I must say, I think Hillary has been doing very well tonight. Barrack has been dodging questions and giving fuzzy, unsubstantial answers. Hillary has been much more direct, quick, and on the ball. In any case, the future looks bright because we all know one of these two will be the next president!

atn   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Every single illegal immigrant is breaking the law by beeing here.
We won't have to deport them, they will go home if we cut off services and stop hiring those without documentation.

Boyd   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

GO Hillary!!! You're on fire tonight….keep up the good work. You have my vote…

Eddie   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

That whole another Clinton to clean up after another Bush BS only speaks to the fact that she feels that the Presidency is somehow owed to her! I am so sick of The Clintons and The Bushes! Enough already!

rick   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I'm glad that Ralph Nader is going to run. Not much to choose from with these two.

ngdoc   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

So we will abandon the Iraqis like Bill did to the Somolis

Tobey   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Having a civil rights attorney in the white house to stir things up sounds like a great idea. Voted for Edwards in NH and undecided right now but leaning towards Obama.

Gabe   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Im 24 yrs old and this is actually the first time that ive shown interest in politics. Following what both candidates have to say and offer for this country and i have to say that it is exciting and it is in fact catching the attention of new people just like myself. I do not have or take any sides but i do respect the ideas that both candidates have.

Gary   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Why don't they ask Hillary about Bill's groveling for substantial amounts of money from foreign interests — just revealed today. And, how that affects our foreign policy. Apparently, what he did is contra to our policy!

kjlund   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I really wish we could move beyond talk of the accomplishments of Bill Clinton's administration – Hillary talks about being judged on her "own merits" but keeps hitting us over the head with all of the statistics from Bill's time in office. Enough please.

Go Obama!

Lois Lane   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama is full of "we shoulds. but he never says how "we should" do it.

cindy   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Wow. I am so glad we are having a debate about issues and are talking about how different we are from the Republicans. Two great candidates. The democratic party is alive and well.

Hillary is stronger on the issues, though, and gets my vote.

Tim   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I will not be voting for either Clinton or Obama, but I love politics so here I am. I give Clinton big style points on what she said before the break.."it looks like it will take another Clinton to clean up after another Bush." I disagree with everything she stands for but that line is great for our 24/7/365 sound bite hungry media

Andrew   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I "debated" with myself about whether or not to watch this debate tonight. I'm so sick of the debates. So I tuned in late (9PM eastern time), and I'm sitting here thinking: "Wow, we have the two most intelligent, well-spoken, professional candidates in the race". I'm proud to be a Democrat, and although I think Obama is by far the best candidate, I would support Hillary should she end up being the nominee.

Jules   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is a mud slinger with that last comment about both Bushes. I am a dem but that last statement even though true wasn't necessary. Her answers are all what she has said before, nothing new. It is refreshing to hear Obama speak with fresh new ideas. She had her chance, she even said she worked on health care over the 8 years that Bill was in the whitehouse…yeah..so..why didn't you make it happen then? Go Obama we need change…Clinton's have been there and really didn't do much for the African Americans during that time. All show to get into office then no action.

kelly   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is out talking Obama. Obama is talking but not saying much

Chris   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Yeah i agree bada ling every time one of them talk or say some thing that some agree with they clap. Get over it and stop swaying the public opinion!

Jimbo   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

If a person really think about it. There is no way to reduce health costs.

Davie Vicious   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama has my vote. Look at the way they carry themselves, the way they speak, not just the words. I'm a woman, but I don't want a woman president.

TS   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

We can't leave Iraq immediatly- we did in Afgan in the 1970's and helped to create the Taliban's animosity towards the USA.

anne   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

clinton 2008!!! experience!

larry   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Both are good but Hillary has a better grasp of the facts and has outlined her program well. Barack is articulate but obviously lacks depth in his answers. Just saying he will bring Americans together is not good enough.

Murray Rothbard   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I found it more entertaining when they quarreled amongst themselves. I'm switching to channel 7 now. Lost premiere. ;-]

rollie   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

You are allowing Hillery to dominate the discussion. Maybe that is inevitable, since she is so skilled and articulate. Obviously, the Wolf has no control of the situation. It is a tough business and Hilery is tough. But it ain't fair.

Tyne   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

60 days!!! she's crazy if she thinks that will happen

Roxana Rojas   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

It does not matter what her last name is!!! What we have to see here is if she is ABLE to be our President, and she IS!!!!!

Wes Minneapolis, MN   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I wonder how they are going to force the cost of health care down? Brute force? Or is the burden simply going to be shifted to the government with billions in bureaucracy to go with it?

Shon Weathers   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I just tuned in so Im an hour late but again one thing I have yet to be satisfied with Mrs Clinton is we never get a straight answer. Experience as Pres neither have so Hilary wouldn't be attacking any issues on day one that would be Bill. From what I understand big decisions are made by the Pres Vp, Sec of state, Gen of mililtary and maybe some consultants. I have yet to hear or read anything that says any Presidents wife was in on those decisions or war rooms.

mds   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

They seem to be fond of taking digs at the current and former President Bush, and those comments are good for cheap applause from the audience, but they are not running against Bush.

damianmann   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is even slicker than Bill.

Interesting hoe my question about corruption in the Clinton whitehouse wasn't approved for posting here.

As for Clinton/Bush/Bush Clinton over and over again…that's NOT healthy for Democracy. What great changes have occurred over these years since they ran things?

Aaron   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

As an veteran turned alternative energy engineer, what can we do to entice our returning veterans to answer the call to take on the most pressing problem, energy independence. It worked with the WWII veterans in fueling the space race, couldn't it work again for the returning Iraq vets?

Utah for OBAMA   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

After seeing Barack Obama, I do believe John F. Kennedy was reincarnated!

Richard Peter   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is winning the policy arguments. Obama is a good speaking, better than Hillary, but Hillary is all right as well. I need someone with better policies. That would be Hillary. And she has more experience. She will win!

ke   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama says he doesn't accept PAC money, and yet he kisses as much hawkish AIPAC butt as the rest of them?

I don't want to see another war in Iran, as AIPAC is so heavily pushing for, and I hope he'll have the backbone to stand up to all PACs once he becomes President, so we're not dragged into another Iraq…. but that's not a safe bet given history of that particular lobby group according to Walt's and Mearsheimer's book. I'll end up voting Obama since he has moral convictions that don't change like the weather (referring to Clinton) :P

Independant Woman   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hey! It's Obamas turn to get a question and speak.

April   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Wow! Senator Clinton is wiping the floor with him…

Jim   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

A REAL debate!!

Mary   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary and Barack are both inspiring. I want both of them on the Democratic ticket, and quite honestly, I don't care who's on top! Pardon the pun.

tom rupert   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Where in the world are you getting these questions? I went to politico.com and had to vote for pre-selected questions and then only had three choices per subject matter.

What about our trade deficit with China? Why is the USA saving a -4% of its earnings while India is saving upwards of 25% and China is even higher? China is buying up our deficit and they will want payment. Ask a question about that. Our children will pay this bill when it comes due.

Darrio McKenzie   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I beleive this debate is the BEST OF DEBATES…For once I see folks are interested in Presidential Elections and Maybe just Maybe they will start to move away from having a higher percentile vote than American Idol and put strong faith back into Presidenttial Elections.

GO OBAMA

daytona beach   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

The problem with Hillary is that she cannot win over the vast majority of independents and new voters. While experience gives McCain a certain advantage over Obama, the polarizing effect of Hillary as our party's nominee gives McCain a tremenous advantage.

Michael Newman   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I wish that Hillary and Obama would spend more time focusing on the failues of the past 8 years. Unfortunately the interviewers seem more interested in small details rather than in the big issues.
Based on what I have seen this evening, there is no question that the Democratic party candidate will beat John McCain.

CLAUDY   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama is the only one, who can bring the change the American are looking for.

pow   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

clinton divides- obama unites- Fox News would have to add another network to cover the hate. Obama has best chance of winning against repub nominee. they will use fear to manipulate

Alice   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I have to say, the Democratic party is going to have an amazing candidate either way. Glad I missed the last debate, because so far this one makes me pretty happy with both of them.

BB-NH   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama is looking really good in this debate. But I have to agree that Hillary sounds good too. But Barak represents a new generation and we need that!

Peggy Carter   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I want to know what they are doing about the rising cost of college. Most of the students that I know are leaving college with over $50,000 in loans. Grants are few, I am a current student and a mother of 8 year old and I am afraid I won't be able to afford college for her in 10 years.

Jen   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama has no constructive ideas that are detailed. Hillary has a clear vision and knows is extremely explicit in her answers. Obama needs a better vocabulary.

Linda   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is really good. Obama is not her opponent in every issue. Who is qualified for the President? Hillary.

lk   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I would love to hear their positions on how best to combat global warming and what should the government be doing.

Jim McCullough   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary keeps talking about the moral majority. She carries too much negative past to be considered as the moral candidate.
If elected, would Hillary expect to find the White house trashed like she left it?

Ro   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

What a wonderful improvement in tenor!!!!!!! I'm so proud of both of them. They are actually drawing differences in policy rather than attacking. I'm so grateful.

E.Procopis   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

So far the debate has been good, as you have stated, they are being civil which is a nice change. They both have been doing a great job, but I am going to vote for Obama as I like his outlook and I think if Hilliary gets in, Bill will be right there behind her telling what "he" would do.

K Bauer   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

its interesting that Wolf Blitzer a former communications director for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a lobbyist group that pounds and smashes those who speak an opinion critical of Israel, can be an objective moderator. Give me a break. It's the same cast of characters and the same non-sense warmed over.

daniel   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is brilliant, with conviction! I was not wanting to vote for her when this campaign started, but she has earned my vote. Go Hillary!!!!

Ala   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Great debate…. I would like them to address the relations with the EU and the position of the US with respect to the wold economy

demobabe   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Why does she continue to take credit for Bill's administration and the economy during his administration which he did not cause to be better or worse.

It was the tech explosion and low interest rates of the federal reserve which he had nothing to do with that impacted the economy.

Hillary is such a phony?

Rich   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Ask them if they have ever read the Constitution of the US and how any of their ideas are compliant with THE document. They do have to take an oath of office to abid by it.

I am sure they will be asked….LOL!

Jerry Carbaugh   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

How will Hillary keep her presidency from being a co-presidency with Bill being in the White House. Somehow I do not see that as a team for Change.

D   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Make my life easier, why can't Hil be Pres and Obama b VP, I thnk this wld wrk

frank   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

he'd be a good vice president, thats about it

Mary Bisig   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary does seem to have a better understanding of what is needed for our coountry and seems more intune. He just doesn't seem to answer the questions, just skirts around them

LP   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I'm a registered Republican but I will vote for Obama to keep Hillary from winning. How can you believe in or trust a woman who for political reasons only didn't stand up for herself knowing what her husband did to her. I don't believe a word she says or trust any of her actions. People are saying Hillary is more articulate but that's because she has more practice at avoiding the real issues at hand.

Paul Williamson   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama is stumbling and out of his depth… you can't fake experience and command of the issues you don't have, he is clearly the amateur here, 2 yrs as a Senator does not cut it. Hillary has 8 years as a Senator, 8 years working with Bill in the White House (and she made a lot of contributions), and 8 years in the Governor's mansion in Arkansas – she's been there, done that-we do not need another amateur in the White House (and he is the most liberal member of the Senate, 100% ADA ratings)- the only ones Obama will bring together ae the far left liberals, the other 90% of the country will not support his proposed changes

nai   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

South Carolina for Barrack!

Michael   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

We Could Lose With The "Wrong" Candidate, Because We Could End Up With "LESS JOBS/MORE WARS McCAIN" Hillary's The One Who Has The Best Chance!

Elizabeth Moore   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I would like to hear from Hillary how she plans to take on the insurance companies when she takes so many donations from them? Why hasn't anyone brought this up?

Washington state for Obama!   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

CNN has done it again.. they are not giving equal time to the candidates. Hilary is clearly being given more time to speak. We want to hear from Obama!!

George Hinson   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

This country doesn't need another Clinton in the White House. Sure way to have a republican president in the Hpouse is to have hiliary on the ticket.

DJ   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I think they are both realizing that they get the most positive reactions when they agrue as Democrats other than two opposing candidates. I alsmost get the feeling they are making good with each other so the Democratic ticket in November will have both listed on the ballot in no particualr order. From a "I am a Democrat" point of view and looking to the future a Clinton/Obama ticket would set the table for a Obama/? ticket 8 years from now.

James   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

41% of Americans are now independent voters. Most of you Hillary and Obama fans are out of touch with America. You give Hillary the nod in the Primary you will lose to McCain. Red states in america completely dislike her.

Michigan Independent   January 31st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Since G.W. wasn't your typical republican (lower taxes and spend, spend, spend)
I am nervous about electing a liberal democrat. We are in serious financial straights – WHERE IS AL GORE? I think he is the only leader I can trust at this point. And some of you won't like this, but Ron Paul does get it! I like that he gets it.

David Anderson   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Where are all the displaced people Senators Clinton and Obama are trying to attract? The only people shown in the audience are rich movie stars.

Serge   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Obama has no experience. His only experience can be said to be dealing with African American issues. How about Hispanics? Asians? Whites? He can learn in the near future but not yet. How about Obama for Vice President and Clinton for President? That will for sure gurantee the presidency!!

leedogcr   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Why do they continue to cut away to the celebrities in the crowd? It just more evidence of what a dog and pony show politics has become these days.

Cotswold   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Obama is all smoke and mirrors.

Roxanne   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

A very mature and dignified debate. There are not much differences between Obama and Hilary. On some points there are so similar that It sounds as though they are speaking for each other.

S Mingua   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Why was the audience NOT instructed to keep quiet during the actual debate. Their applause has been distracting from the debate.

Pam Ballard   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

They would actually make a good team, if Bill could be controlled.

Forrester   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I'd like to know if Bill tried to talk Hillary out of Voting for the Iraq War or if he was for it too?

Michael Lansford   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

BRAINS OVER CHANGE nymommie

lstansbury   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary gets her best applause when she attacks the other team.

Charlie   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

It is dire that America has change. This election will be the pinacle of that change. Hillary is beating around the bush (no pun intended), and dancing like a monkey for the vote. Change is not easy. Barack's plans are not simple, yet they make sense. Recession is not easy. America is heading towards another. Barack is the change that is necessary. He is a liberal, yet he has the mindset of an independent. Both of them have to stand out and make conservatives look terrible in order to earn their delegates. Get informed America. Your political system is not a democracy, it is a republic. Let's understand the system, and the people inside the system.

Donny   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

YES, during the last Clinton administration, the United States was at peace, we had a GREAT ECONOMY, he accomplished real welfare reform, and the U.S. was admired and respected in the world! You are absolutely right…great point! What has W done besides ruin our economy and trash our reputation in the world by starting wars over lies.

Matt B   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I don't see how all of you are saying Barack isn't being specific. Are you not listening? For more information Obama's website has a very detailed listing of his positions.

Pallavi   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

She said it . Bill cleaned Sr. Bush mess and she will clean Jr.Bush mess.

Debo Dykes   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

There is literally not an undertone of animosity. They are having to be very detailed in their descriptions of differences. This is because they fundamentally agree on the direction the country ought to take and the issues which have to be faces. It is extraordinary that the two democratic candidates are a Woman and an African American. That gives testimony by itself to a new future.

belkys   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I am very happy that the debate began with an outline on the candidates' differences in policies. Since their opinions are very similar, it was good to see and hear what differences exist within their campaigns. The last debate consisted of alot of mud-slinging…. I rather enjoyed it… lol. This debate is seems to have an air of 'peace'. Good for them, good for the democratic party.

Justin   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Awsome, vote for Hillary because she is a woman, and don't vote for Obama because he is a black man. I thought we were Democrats. We were supposed to be the party that focused on the issues. Obama's delivery shows that he respects the intellegence of the American people, but Hillary gives us sound-bites.

Brandon   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I'm so over these two families running America. Obama 08.

Pamela   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

That comment by Clinton on it taking a Clinton to clean up behind a Bush will make the sound bite of the night! A very smooth and brilliant rejoinder.

Carolyn Ingram   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

What's really the biggest problem in America?

I think misappropriation of Federal Funds. How will this BIG problem be addressed?

Jeff   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Lets hope they put in as much effort once elected as they do trying to get elected

Matthew Lynch   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

How scripted is Hillary? Lies Lies Liar Liar pants on fire.

Chad P   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

How about Wolf going after Obama like… well – a wolf… Guess it isn't called the Clinton News Network for nothing.

God she just looks so smug – makes me ill…

LAK   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hilary – great comment about needing another Clinton to clean up after a Bush … HOWEVER – you needed to seize the opportunity to clearly state that YOU are NOT your husband, and YOU will be your own president. Many voters (including myself) are most concerned about re-electing Bill. I want to know that you will run the show and I don't want to see Bill for another years.

Bill needs to get over himself.

Darrell   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

lol @ the Ron Paul sign. They are ubiquitous.

Nova   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Talking abotu electability I doubt Hillary can get any republican votes when it comes to it . But Obama can.

Joyce   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary or Obama? I like them both. The only bad thing, people don't realize how the Republican pundits will chew Hillary and Bill and spit them out. It's a shame that conservative attack machines are out there, but they are there in force and all of them have their own shows.

Felix (Miami)   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

A question for those candidates:

What would be your policy about Venezuela? President Chavez is becoming more dangerous in the continent. What you will do?

Mark   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Only Hillary can unite the Republicans…..Obama is more electable!

tanna   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

It would really be nice, after all of the rumors flying around, if someone would come right out and ask Senator Obama about his allegiance to our flag, or lack thereof. It is time to clear it up and let him answer for himself.

Roz   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

How refreshing to hear intelligent candidates.. either would make a great leader… Can we move up the election and get rid of Bush!!!

Neal   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

The Bush's Economic Stimulus package gives China a $145B PAY RAISE. Congratulations America!!

Monseraut   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

She has said that "joke" several times before in other interviews. Too bad Obama can't kick it into gear. Hillary is better with details but that's what advisors are all about.

Mick LuCore   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I am a serviceman and very proud to serve, but feel we need a trusted leader that can manage the country.
How can Ms. Clinton manage the country when she can't manage her husband.
During his stint as President he had at least 4 documented op's I did it again with someone else but my wife.
Why does this question not get ask?

Mick

Joe Coffaro   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Has either one of you talked to any construction contractors? Apparently not. If you take the time to do so, you will find out that american staffed contracting firms do not get the jobs when competeting with illigal latino staffed contractors. It is a matter of finance.

sandra fabria   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

We,Canadians are watching closely in this very important debate and who wins affects us on the norther side of the border. I am more driven on Hillary's approach to question and she is not aggressive in answering questions as the other candidate but she answers graciously but with deeper meaning and realistic approach to the solutions to the issues being brought in at the table..

mike78   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Enough with the celebrity shots – I don't need to see Rob Reiner for the 50th time. And could this Hollywood crowd control its applause just a bit.

Richard Brewer/Michigan   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I voted in Michigan but my vote doesn't count…why? Because the National Democratic Committee said we voted too early. Could this be a Republican Swift Boat again? Don't we ever learn as Democrats?

edm   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

This is not a debate. The evil vitriol that is coming out of Clinton's mouth is expected, this is from the person that called Bill's "friends" trailer trash for telling the truth. But of course that's alright, it's Hilary, the second coming of Mother Teresa.
And Obama just sits there and tries to talk about how wonderful he is and it falls flat.
These two are phonies!
They avoid talking about the tough subjects by using "keywords" like "immigration reform", and "health care" when they actually mean is, "give us your poor, your illegal, you uninsured…. and give us your vote. Because once we're in, we'll forget you even exist, like we always have.

Jason   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hey, everybody! I was a staunch republican 2 years ago and now I AM A DEMOCRAT!!! I have never felt better about my decision or my life. GO BARACK!! He has the power to get more like me on the right path!!!

Vince in Missouri   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I disagree with you Daytona I believe we have not been allowed to see her real charm. There has been way to much distraction by her husband during this campaign.I applaud his loyalty but he overstepped teh boundary. She has a side we have not seen all teh time but it is there…….GO Hillary

SherryNYforOBAMA   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

and who will clean up after this Clinton.

M Smith   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Obama/Clnton '08

leigh   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary is kicking butt. Go hillary!

Duma   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I don't get why Obama doesn't stress Hilary's inevitable "in your face" style of management and likely divisive response to Republicans. She simply cannot be a consensus builder unlike Obama.

Jimbo   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary is trying to seperate herself from her husband, but then tries to claim it for her own merit.

Penny Tucson   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Everybody keeps talking about immigrants eventually getting "at the back of the line" or "getting in line"…………what line? There is no line to get into the country, there are lotteries! I want an explanation of this!

Donal Thoms-Cappello   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

How come no noone has asked these two ever if they would pledge to repeal the newfound powers the executive branch has gained under the Bush Administration?

John D'Arpino   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

What a awesome and refreshing change from the last democratic debate. Obama and Clinton have to remember that while they are competing against each other for the White House, the ultimate test will be after the convention. It is imperative that they unite the party and the people who are looking for change. The big test will be with the Republicans who will undermine them both.

jerry   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I see alot of genralizations and some policy discussion, but I would like to see some real hard-hitting debates on what eaxctly either one of the candidates would say on specific subjects such as the aftermath of the Iraq war and the financial situation fo the country.

vickaru   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary is beaming! Did you see her experience explained properly – wow! Obama couldn't hold a candle. SHE'S MY GAL!

islasue   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

IF Hillary wins…..who will REALLY run the country….her or Wild Bill? Lord help us all!!

Nathan   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Both candidates are pretty close on the issues, but the real question is who will win the general election. I for one believe that all off the new voters that OBAMA has brought into the democrat party will not vote for HIllary come November if she is the nominee.

Secondly, of the two candidates who do you believe is more likely to CHANGE THEIR MESSAGE AND CONCERNS after they are sworn in.

Just some food for thought…

Meredith   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Were the illegals are given drivers licenses, will they also be required to have insurance, or would the citizens of the US be required to pay for their motor vehicle accidents just as we pay for their health insurance?

Regarding health care, what is either one of the debaters idea on those of us with pre-existing conditions and unable to get coverage. Having been covered under my husbands work policy and he changed jobs, I have been unable to find a new plan that will accept me, or that is affordable.

Tasha Rainey   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I am happy with a nonconfrontational debate. We need candidates that are more interested in what needs to improve in this country than with tearing each other to shreds. I hope that Barak and Clinton work together for a CHANGE for America. They need to be running mates. As a black woman, I would be excited to see either or become President and Vice President.

p. harvey   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

This is less of a debate than a Hillary Cinton talk-a-thon! Wolf Biltizer is doing a poor job as a moderator.

Shelly   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I think CNN is setting this up for Clinton.

nick arcia   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

yes clinton tried to reform health care….. but she failed, should this be a postive thing? time for some one else to give it a shot… change is not bush clinton clinton bush bush clinton.

Patricia   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

My husband and I are enjoying the debate. Why don't you two run as Co-presidents.We I like you both. Its nice to finally have a choice. We have been voting for many years. Finally, Thank you.Patricia

Rlee   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary just said it, there will be no change with her just another Clinton in a dress. To bad the crowd didnt pick up on it. Just cheered for the clean up quip. She is as slick as they come.

Katie Cormier   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I hope they ask questions about the problems in the environment and how they plan to better the situation

Kevin McNulty   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary,

What will Bill Clinton's role be in your White House if you are elected and do you think your election and his presence in the White House goes against the spirit of term limits for Preisident

Lars   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Why Has no one asked either candidate, why neither one of them has realized the power that the two of them together, would have againist the republicans???? HELLO

Sam I Am   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Can Hillary stop the Bush bashing? We do have to work with Republicans. To make the United States great we must work together.

David   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

This is not a debate, all I hear is degrading our country and current President, He may be the worst of all time but you don't degrade the Leader of our country.
Niether of these two look like a president to me.
How about talking about the issues!

Doggal   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Whoa! Hillary is soooo impressive! I am so proud of her! I like Obama, too, but I trust Hillary's experience. Let's have 8 years of Hillary followed by 8 of Obama!

I loved Hillary's remark just before the 9:15 break … that it took one Clinton to clean up after the first Bush and it'll take another one to clean up after this Bush.

Nikki   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Senator Clinton and Senator Obama keep mentioning what happened before George W. Bush took office and how wonderful things were, but then 9/11 happened and things changed.

Amy   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

The truth is I want Obama as president, but if Clinton wins I won't be crying either. They both represent change and democratic ideals which is really the main thing this country needs. Bush can't win again which to me is the biggest victory.

Joe   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I cannot wait until tuesday, so I can vote for Hillary

LA for Hillary   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Best debate ever! Was for Obama…..NOW FOR HILLARY!

Homan   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

The last piece about the mess made by the Bush family was a serious hit!

LC   January 31st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Can Hillary answer the question on change please? Or does she have to dodge every question!?