February 17, 2008
Posted: 12:58 PM ET
A new Clinton campaign mailer takes aim at Obama’s health care plan.
A new Clinton campaign mailer takes aim at Obama’s health care plan.

CHICAGO, Illinois (CNN) — Responding to a mailer sent out by Hillary Clinton's campaign attacking Barack Obama's healthcare plan, Obama backer and longtime Massachusetts Sen. Ted Kennedy said the tactics are ones of "distortion, misrepresentation," and "fear-mongering."

"I respect Sen. Clinton and her healthcare plan," Kennedy said, "but I think it does a great disservice to all of us who are interested in universal comprehensive healthcare."

On a conference call with reporters, Kennedy said that as someone who considers healthcare to be the "passion of his life in the Senate," the nation is "much better off being positive."

The ad, being circulated via mailboxes in Wisconsin, relays a theme the Clinton campaign has been pushing since the days of Iowa–that Obama's healthcare plan will leave "15 million people without coverage." The ad also includes a photo of seven people standing in a row underneath text that reads "Barack Obama, which one of these people don't deserve healthcare?"

"I was really shocked and very surprised that Sen. Clinton put that pamphlet out," he continued, adding that both Democratic candidates want universal healthcare but that Obama is the one to get it done since he has the ability to bring the kind of coalition needed to accomplish it.

-CNN Political Producer Chris Welch

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Joe G   February 17th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

The Ted Kennedy endorsement has worked on me. I voted twice for Bill Clinton, once for Gore and Kerry but will never ever vote for Barak Obama. The man is little more than one good feeling speech after another.

I have deep respect for Hillary Clinton. A person that worked for universal health care and got ripped to shreds by the republicans for the effort. And how does Ted Kennedy and other Obama supporters pay her back?

They spew hate and venom. Obama supporters make me sick! Go HILLARY!!!!

ann becker   February 17th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

I NEVER LIKE TED KENNEDY ANYWAY .DISLIKE HIM EVEN MORE…NOW . I DO LIKE HILLARY…….GO HILLARY GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!

kwame   February 17th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

LIBERAL OLD TED, YOUR LIKES DON'T WIN ELECTIONS.
HILLARY WILL WIN

lisa   February 17th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Ted Kennedy isn't candidate,why is he so excited,and so sensitive.he should stand up and become a Candidate if he is so interested other's busnesses.

elena   February 17th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Go back to the Senate, Ted!

seektruth   February 17th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

we don't want anypne force us to buy healthy care! if your price is lower enough we will buy. we don't need a big mama, we need a leader that offer us choices, most all Obama is a uniter who will bring all of us and get job done, he will push away special interests and work for the people of America! Obama we can trust !

caroline berney   February 17th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Mr. Kennedy has been unsuccessful obtaining universial health care for forty years. Give some one else a chance. Most of the US candidates including Mr Kennedy have just nibbled aroung the edges of universal health care. America is the only country in the G-7 that does not have public health care. Americans may find that their productivity level will go up and they will attract more jobs if they had health care. Now jobs are not just going to China, but the countries with health care.

aware   February 17th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Give it up Sen. Kennedy.

Do your own research people. The last fact check I read said Obama's plan would leave from 15 to 26 million people without health care. It is good to share the facts!

Have you fact checked Obama's ads? :)

Hillary the HOPE of 08

mgoody   February 17th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Well Sen Kennedy I guess that is your opinion, not mine. Watch the debate on Thursday night and maybe you will learn the difference between the 2 of them.

Hillary 08

Dawn McNeal   February 17th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Kennedy is a bitter old man

Jim in CT   February 17th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Can somebody tell me when Senator Obama has ever brought all these diverse views and parties together to solve any problem, anywhere? Does Ted Kennedy think we're dumb enough to believe him just because he says it's so?
Where's the beef!!!

Florida for Hillary   February 17th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

Go away Kennedy. Are we going to hear from daddy every time little boy NOBAMA gets slapped by his opponents? This is initiation by fire and if pretty boy can't take the heat, then he needs to move on.

Go Hillary or McCain! Only mature adults can participate.

Avis C, Richton Park,IL   February 17th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Hillary has been trying to get Universal Health Care for years now. It's time to move on and let someone else get the job done.

Sorry Hillary, been there, done that!

YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YES WE WILL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OBAMA 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ann, Los Angeles   February 17th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

This would be great of Ted Kennedy but Senator Obama's plan is not for universal health care………so who is the distorter?

Tina ny, ny   February 17th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

go home kennedy.

Max Grubb   February 17th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

The negative ads show once again how polarizing Hillary Clinton is. That is why when her husband was in the whitehouse, she didn't get anywhere with her health plan. That is why during those 8 years and her years in the Senate she has not been able to get the job done. Now she tells us she can. Oh yes, she can continue to complain and in her negative way push most of us further away. I am a life-long Democrate who might have voted for Hillary, but after watching her campaign I will cast my first vote for a Republican if she is nominated. I am 75 years old and have voted a few times in my life, but never considered voting Republican until now. I can only pray that she is not nominated. Rev. Max Grubb

david   February 17th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

blah blah blah (that stands for CNN now). They're all the same.

Vote for Hillary.

Bala Rebbe   February 17th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

As the Senator points out, it is terriby unfortunate that Hillary feels compelled to make false accusations about Obama's health plan. The main issue is; she calls for mandates, but does not tell us how she will force people to pay, e.g. garnishing wages. Obama does not. Which approach is more likely to win approval in congress? The answer is obvious.

Patrick   February 17th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

It's no different than Obama's misleading mailers. Excellent double standard Mr. Kennedy. It's a good thing this isn't politics as usual.

Efe Igbide   February 17th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Clintons like to win at any cost. They are behaving like republicans now.

stuffy   February 17th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

coward kennedy, you are long standing politician, please grow in politics……

Sharon   February 17th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Is anyone surprised that the Clintons are using scare tactics, misrepresentations, and distortions?

Sarah   February 17th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Such a negative, divisive woman.

Linda   February 17th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I have to laugh people say Hillary has been in politics too long and we need change. Then they listen to Teddy Kennedy who is nothing like his brothers John or Bobby. If Obama has done so much in such little time why does he need Teddy to be his mentor. All I remember about Teddy was about a bridge and a young girl who lost her life. Get a life Teddy and retire.

Ito, Yokosuka Japan   February 17th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Well, Mr. Kennedy, don't be shocked. You are witnessing how slimy they Clinton's are.

They have no regard for the truth. They will stretch it is far as they can. They will transform it into something it is not. Ask a Clinton what truth is and they will tell you, "It all depends are your definition of truth is."

Why would anybody want such a person occupying the highest office of the land. What does that say about our priority as Americans. Is HRC going to lie, cheat, and steal her way into the hearts and minds of world community. When the going get's tough is she going to blame other world leaders for being part of the vast right wing conspiracy? Is she going to call in Bill to rescue her? Is she going to start crying. An HRC presidency would be a crying shame and a disgrace to America.

We need Obama. He is the only Answer to a Clinton Presidency. A vote for HRC is not a vote for change, but a vote for more of the same 8 years we had with Bush.

Excuse me while I go to vomit now.

Sam   February 17th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Kennedy is correct. Bill Clinton tries to hard to destroy Obama, as he compared him to Jesse Jackson, while he is doing that he is damaging his reputation as a best president we had in the last two decades. He needs to stop it. Is Hillary would be the same dislikning the black?

Ben   February 17th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

There is fear in the Clinton campaign that is why they feel they must bring these negative ads……..don't they realize that these negative ads turns people off. I am not looking forward in the upcoming debate because we are going to see these negative attacks from Hilliary at least Obama will be there to defend these negative attacks.

Obama 08

Shane   February 17th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

This is why i wont vote for Hillary clinton. Even if she wins the democratic nomination, i wont vote for her. I probably wont vote at all if she wins. Shes a politician, whos more interested in getting elected than anything else. Repblicans hate her as wll as many independents and democrats. Shes not electable. Obama correctly says that having plans and policies is not enough. You have to have the personality/charisma to bring people who disagree on issues together. hillary could never get republicans to agree on universal/mandated healthcare. Weve already seen that movie once.

Democratsin09   February 17th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

She smells defeat so she will resort to anything she can to win.

How pathetic Hillary!

Richard   February 17th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Ted Kennedy you are very bitter towards Hillary.Do not hide behind Obaama to throw jabs.Hillary has prevailed against you in your back yard.Leave her alone.

Boston Brahmin   February 17th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Kennedy is getting worried, his baby Obama might loose Wisconsin. Well, it is a fact that Obama is not planning for universal health care. BTW, Kennedy, Kerry and Gov. Patrick better get ready to vote for Clinton since my state has voted overwhelmingly for her. Or get ready to loose your senate seats next time….

Oregon Voter   February 17th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

I guess Kennedy is okay with Barack's negative mailer attacking Hillary's healthcare inaccurately, but somehow has a problem with a mailer from Hillary that is backed by independent experts? Ted Kennedy is just as much a hypocrite as Obama. They're a good match.

George from Minneapolis   February 17th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Hillary will do and say anything to win the nomination. Do you want that kind of person as your president ??

I DONT

MJA   February 17th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

When Obama does it, its okay. When Clinton does it, its fear-mongering. Come on Ted, get real.

Lynne   February 17th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

The Clintons will stop at nothing to win. Because of that and the way
they have run this campaign , I do not and will not support her.

JohnS   February 17th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Easy for any HISTORIAN or strong student of basic civics to reason as follows:

The Republicans will chew and spit out Hillary within the FIRST month, if she is ever the nominee.

At that time, Independents like me, will run back to the arms of the Republicans. When will the Dems ever learn??? Or, as the media says, most are just not learned to know the difference!!!

Texasboo   February 17th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

THe Clintons are used to "negative,divisive politics" , yet will not release their records, tax and white house. why is that?

Way to go Sen. Kennedy and you made the right choice in endorsing Sen. Obama.

Obama '08

JohnJ   February 17th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

FIrst

Clinton plays too dirty. Americans will see that she is like a dying animal, clawing at whatever she can.

The Clintons had their 8 years in the white house, do u want another 4-8 years of Hilary Clinton? She would bring nothing new to the table, just some revised ideas that Bill had.

We all know that the Clintons are also Power-Mongers. Lets get them out of here

Obama 08!

Independent in IA   February 17th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

If Kennedy is so interested in health care, he should start with his own….he's carrying around enough weight that it would sink the QE2, and his nose rivals that of the late W.C. Fields.

fvp   February 17th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

At the beginning of her campaign Hillary was saying that she would have universal health insurance by the end of her second term. I have heard this my own ears. This was when the candidates thought health care was not a real priority. So how can we trust that her position has really changed and she would get the job done in the first 2 years of her presidency? The uninsured nation needs it and needs it now!

Sue   February 17th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

I read last week (Feb 15) a piece by Fernando Suarez (" Clinton: Voter's Decision Need to be 'Very Reasoned, Careful'") reporting from the road that Obama did something similar in Nevada and Utah….

And so Suarez writes……

…….. "Clinton was referring to mailings Barack Obama sent out in Nevada and Utah that were very similar to the infamous “Harry and Louise” ads from the early '90s. The ad depicted a middle-aged couple at a dinner table with the words: "Hillary's health care plan forces everyone to buy insurance, even if you can't afford it. Is that the best we can do for families struggling with high health care costs?""

How come he (Kennedy) was not shocked then?

jrw34   February 17th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Bill and Hillary will do anything to get elected…is Karl Rove their new strategist?

Sal   February 17th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Both plans will leave 15 Million out.
Hillary's plan is a mandate, and Garnish wages. CBS done a study showing as many as 80 million Americans rely on alternative forms of healthcare.

Hillary has not released her tax information, or the figures on how her plan will be paid for.

Not your year Hillary

2004 wa

Ohio will go to Obama

He is gaining Strength

Hillary underestimated WI, and OH desire for change

Your NAFTA is the problem, that cost more jobs in OH than any other state.

What if we followed hillary healthcare plan. it would be like another VA Hospital. or have one choice of car insurance.

I am old enough to Vote, Obama's healthcare plan offers choice at a 2500 reduced rate.

Jay   February 17th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Ted Please STFU and have another drink…

Doc Jerome   February 17th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

At this point, nothing the Clinton campaign puts out can be trusted. It is all designed to deliberately distort, and misinform.

Same old, same old.

Papa Roach   February 17th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

The Clintons are as underhanded as they come. Another reason why NOT to vote for Hillary.

bill pike   February 17th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

the real clinton has come forward. yes bill, we remember you. the disgrace you brought to our country. WHEN DO WE STOP THE BUSH/CLINTON MONARCHY?

Doc Jerome   February 17th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

At this point, nothing the Clinton campaign puts can be trusted. It is all designed to deliberately distort, and misinform.

Same old, same old.

Lola   February 17th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Wondering, who is running for Presidency? Kennedy or Obama? I understand that Sen. Kennedy endorsed Obama, but why he is constantly speaks for Obama?
Does Obama is capable and old enough to defend himself or he is an underage kid who needs constant protection from his daddy?

Lola

Tony   February 17th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Yes, Hillary stinks, and so are her "superdelegates" by getting behind her low tactics.

Carlos New Jersey   February 17th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

I am the one not to get it, because I understand the Obamas plan is almost directly for peple that must of the time does not have a job and when he said it's for every one, is the price the same for anybody ?,does it matter how much you make a year ? is it still be the same amount for you and the same coverage ?

Arizona Latino Voter   February 17th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Didn't Kennedy learn his lesson? He did not deliver his state for Obama. When Kennedy was in political peril, he called on the Clintons for support and campaigning. They helped him. This is how he repays those who help him the most.

erica   February 17th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

If Ted Kennedy is so concerned with universal healthcare, why doesn't he support the candidate that proposes it?

He is clearly uneducated on this matter. Please refer him to the factcheck. org website which compares both plans and has industry professionals saying that Obama's plan is in no way universal.

Please someone stop Ted from continuing to talk so ignorantly!

Margaret   February 17th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

I quite agree with the comments made by Senator Ted Kennedy about Hillary Clinton. Its now clear that she is desperate and using any means to damage Obama. The truth of the matter is that she underestimated Obama and this has made her confused. She realizes that Obama is a force to reckon with and is now very bitter.

Tom,des moines   February 17th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I think Ted Kennedy is a Sore Loser and a whiner.I thought he was done when his home town lost big to Hillary. Go Hillary 08!

Las mascaras de la nada   February 17th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Hey Teddy, have another drink!

linda bennington nolan   February 17th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Having been in healthcare field for 37+ years, Hillary is so out of touch with reality, it's sad. Barack Obama 'gets it' and understands people don't have health coverage because they can't afford it due to increasing premiums and deductibles; garnishing wages, penalizing people for not buying it is just wrong.

wooha3   February 17th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Hillary Clinton lies to Americans every time she releases a false attack against Obama's health care plan or anything else.. This is much worse than a distortion or a misinterpretation. Kennedy is being polite by calling it fear mongering. Our illustrious former First Lady is lying to Americans to get their votes!

How about a mailer that shows a line of people miles long to respresent the Americans who will be fined, or whose wages will be garnished when they can't afford her MANDATORY heatlh care plan. A mailer that shows an image of a blank check to indicate the possible COST to taxpayers to enforce her MANDATE under her health care plan.

How about a presidential candidate that will lead with integrity and honor.

sandra   February 17th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Senator Kennedy you are a disservice to the america people when you are trying to stop Vanity Fair from putting out an article about your brother JFK love child. Why not just do a DNA and prove the man is wrong.

indigogrrl   February 17th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

eally –was he also shocked and surprised about Obama's nasty pamphlet on Hillary's health plan that was circulated weeks ago?

Carolyn, Buffalo NY   February 17th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Clintob's main campaign theme has been the "inexperience" and "empty promises" of Senator Obama, maintaining that he give speeches, and she gives solutions.

I am from upstate NY, where we have been decimated by plant closings and job losses. During her first Senate run, Hillary Clinton promised to bring 200,000 new jobs to Western NY. She has failed to do so, and, in a recent Buffalo News article, "conceded that she 'might have been a little exuberant' when she predicted she could bring 200,000 jobs to Western New York as a senator" Is this not a prime example of meaningless promises? While the mainstream media is being implored to scrutinize Obama more closely, you may also want to give Clinton's senate record a more public airing…

Suzanne   February 17th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Mandating health insurance does NOT ensure that every single person will be insured either. If the penalty for being uninsured is less than the cost of the premiums, many people will still not have health insurance. Just look at MA. Many people can't afford the premiums and are paying penalties instead. These people are still witout health coverage. This hasn't solved the problem for them. A MANDATE IS NOT A SOLUTION!!!!!!!

Lovely   February 17th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Barack must really promise Ted the vice president seat. Friend's like "Ted" nobody needs enemies.

Deann   February 17th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

The campaign not only get involve Hillary and Obama, it seem to me the Kennedy has more excitements than Obama, it tell me that his special interest has closed his eyes, because for such premature Senator, No long backgrounds and history can let American being review and trust, but WHY KENNEDY HAS SO INTERESTING FOR???

marytnurse   February 17th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Sorry, Clintons. You've tried this (or something similar) in EVERY STATE. The truth is, Barack's plan does NOT FORBID ANYONE from getting health care. He wants to lower the costs, so everyone can AFFORD IT!!!

I'm a nurse, and a proud member of SEIU. Do you really think, with ONE MILLION HEALTH CARE WORKERS, we'd endorse a candidate whose health care policy didn't stand a chance?

Barack is, amongh his other skills, an acknowledged negotiator and is exceptionally good at motivating people; let's put him to work as our president, so that he can do just that in the congress. We desperately need a SOLUTION to the health care crisis, and Barack has it. No mandate means no wage garnishment. AFSCME themselves a year ago said a mandate went against what they believed in.

Frustrated Democrat   February 17th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Ted Kennedy should retire if he wants change. He is a grouche old man. The only reason he endorsed Obama is because the rest of the Democrats can't stand him.

Jason   February 17th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Obama has the ability to get it done? Is that overrated Sen. Kennedy in his right mind? I think he's been in the senate way too long and MA should vote for another democrat to take his place — how's that for a change? Preaching, as if you're in a church, does not get things done. Plan and action does. Something, as shown so far, only his advisors can do not him. Who needs a puppet president?

Of course Ted Kennedy and John Kerry will support him, because they want a job in his administration — y.

E   February 17th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Obama's Health Care Plan Would Cover "More People" Than Hillary's.

"I've compared the two plans in detail. Both of them are big advances over what we have now. But in my view Obama's would insure more people, not fewer, than HRC's. That's because Obama's puts more money up front and contains sufficient subsidies to insure everyone who's likely to need help – including all children and young adults up to 25 years old…In short: They're both advances, but O's is the better of the two. HRC has no grounds for alleging that O's would leave out 15 million people." - Robert Reich, 12/3/07

Vic   February 17th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Well, I'll bet Ted Kennedy WAS shocked and surprised that Hillary would actually criticize Mr. Wonderful. Sorry, Teddy, you're her superdelegate, and you and Kerry are bound to vote for her! Or, will your handpicked guy convince you that you two don't have to do that. Anyway, perhaps in your next "position" paper, you and Kerry can advise the great one on how to "lose" a presidential campaign. I noticed HE hasn't signed you up yet!

arica   February 17th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Typical Clinton B/S as usual. I guess this is what happens when you're willing to do anything to get the nomination!!!

Citizen Kaye   February 17th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

It's funny. The Clinton camp says "words don't matter" and yet, when it comes to Obama, they seem to think that just saying something makes it true. Luckily, the American people have proved themselves smarter than the Clintons give them credit for.

The American voters are smart and well-informed and realize that forcing people to buy health insurance that they can't afford is not the answer. Obama's plan aims to cut costs and make health insurance affordable, making it mandatory only in the case of children. Independent experts who have looked at the plans (unlike Krugman, who is a huge Clinton supporter) have repeatedly endorsed Obama's plan over that of Mrs. Clinton.

In any event, the Obama and Clinton plans are not hugely different. So the real question becomes: who can actually get it done? NOT Clinton - who has supposedly been trying since the early 1990s and yet has failed miserably. Obama is the one who can forge a working majority by appealing to Dems, Independents and Republicans alike - by evoking our better angels, not demonizing those who don't agree with him on every issue and nuance.

indigogrrl   February 17th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

really –was he also shocked and surprised about Obama's hit piece on Hillary's health plan that was circulated weeks ago?

Winifred 4 Obama   February 17th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Thank you Senator Kennedy, it is the same Hillary Clinton's divisiveness that killed her healthcare during Bill Clinton's first term. If she is such a tough fighter and solutions person,how come she quit after loosing the healthcare battle during her husband's tenure? This proves that she will QUIT again if her healthcare fails as President. She is a QUITTER…

Juliet   February 17th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

FACT CHECK:

This is an argument based on omission and misrepresentation of facts. Obama's plan "leaves out" 15 million people, because Hillary's plan is MANDATORY. Under Obama's plan, the estimated 15 million would be those who have ELECTED NOT to have insurance. Under Hillary's plan, all will be "covered"–even those who CAN NOT AFFORD IT. She has said that she would GARNISH THE WAGES of those who did not sign on for whatever reason.

Add to that that HRC's plan would cost roughly twice as much as Obama's.

LAURA   February 17th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Hillary's health plan failed when she was in the White House. She did not do it right then. She is ready on the first day??? Her campaign was almost doomed. She has been changing her theme during the whole campaign. She even copied Obama's initial theme of "Change."

We want to know why the Clintons are not disclosing their Tax Returns. What are they hiding again>

We are delighted that Obama is ignoring Bill's legacy: "I DID NOT HAVE SEX WITH THE WOMAN…." Your words are not to be trusted.

Karen   February 17th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

sounds like kennedy is getting a tad desperate here. How are Clinton's mailers any different from the ones Obama's side distributed? Also going by the Obama logic, Kennedy and Kerry need to switch their support to Clinton to reflect the wishes of their constitutents. But they won't do so. ha ha….as usual the double standard.

John Harrington   February 17th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Shut up u old hag…
dont u think it was distroting when u threw a girl in a car down a cliff

trudy mac donald   February 17th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

H.clinton said in reference to Obama ;talk is and i quote;words are cheap which to me is dispicable.Hillory had eight years in the whitehouse and eight years in the senate to get universal health care and could not deliver. I say give obama a chance .look at where Obama is today ;she has been building her campaign for four years and Obama for less than a year I think he has been amazing .a true under dog My dear departed Mom would say ACTONS speak louder than words OBama has the power of his words plus his character and actions I predict if nominated the US citizens will have healthcare Give obama the chance I do not think you will be disappointed.

everistus etafo   February 17th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

once again the clintons continue to be so devisive ,and i am so glad that the respected kennedy is exposeing this,how far will they go to win ?my guess is whatever it takes by hook or crook therefore it is sad and so becomeing of them ,planting questions in the crowds,lying,negative attacks,misrepresentation,fear-mongering,distortion ,wow! america beware of the colors that you see. stop!stop! power is not everything! integrity is worth more you!

Chris Blask   February 17th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

This sort of tone concerns me. I do not understand how a Democratic candidate can take a page from the Karl Rove playbook and expect to get positive results.

If we want to be frank about the healthcare problem, then I have a question about the Hillary plan regarding self-employed people who cannot have their wages garnished for not buying her healthcare: what happens when I can't pay the fines? Will the government sue me or send collection people (or the police)?

This kind of thing can put families out of their homes just when enough people are already having enough problems keeping their heads above water…

Waiting for Miracles   February 17th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Obama's healthcare is not Universal, its the same OLD THING we have now.

Jesus! I can't believe this man calling his self Catholic is as stupid as the rest of his clan. GO BACK TO DRINKING TED AND GROW SOME SPINE!

Henry   February 17th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Always, always the same nasty, stupid and shameless tactics, always the same dirty tricks….

My God, why don't democrats understand that this woman is bad ? She is ready to put the party in danger, with the same dirty politics of the past, just to win a primary ?

What kind of woman is she ?
I'm very shame for the democratic party and for Hillary Clinton, that's the kind of politics she wants to bring to the WH ?

If you let her get the nomination, too bad for you, democrats you won't say that you weren't aware of all the nasty tricks this woman is capable of…

Cindy   February 17th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Typical of the Clinton's. No respect.

Waiting for Miracles   February 17th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Kennedy should shutup and go back to drinking, old prune trying to make his own legacy at the expense of every Americans.

Not everyone is soldout with Obama, he talks the talk but can't walk the walk.

Dorothy   February 17th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Who cares what Kennedy thanks, did he complain when Obama sent out mailers with lies pertaining to Hillarys healthcare plan.

OMG   February 17th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Hillary's campaign reminds me of travelgate! people getting fired, financial mismanagement, lies, etc…

Manuel Morales TX   February 17th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Ted says that Obama is the one to get it (universal healthcare) done since he has the ability to bring the kind of coalition needed to accomplish this.

And where is the proof that he could get the republicans to vote for universal healthcare?

Ted himself has spent his entire life working for better healthcare with the republicans, and he has failed. How is a senator with 2 years worth of experience in Washington now suddenly going to make this happen?

Ted knows that what he’s saying is not true.

The reality is that universal healthcare will be a huge fight.

Wynter, Loudon, NH   February 17th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

But Kennedy didn't refute that she was right! I wish Ted would just stop spreading rhetoric when the truth is right in front of our eyes. Obama's so-called Healthcare plan is just to "take two asprin and call me back in four years". We need a real plan!

Go Hillary!

SheWill   February 17th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

kennedy shouldnt be calling the kettle black because if you check his record in the senate, he has co-sponsored more bills with Hillary than most senators there. check it out, if you dare to believe it.

Jereme   February 17th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Hmmm, thanks Ted, but I don't think that criticizing a healthcare package is exactly the same as fear-mongering. Good try, though.

Doug - California   February 17th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Obama's and Clinton's plan are the same, except she mandates (requires) everyone to pay for healthcare out of their paycheck and if someone can't affod it, then all other tax payers pay the bill.

SheWill   February 17th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

her mailer is no different than his about her healthcare plan. he was trying to alter peoples minds into thinking hers was more of the same by imitating "harry and louise". that was downright despicable. hers is at least aimed at his "current" plan stating that not all people will be covered, which to me is not universal healthcare. look up the meaning of universal and it doesnt state "not everyone"..

kevin from alaska   February 17th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

This whole health care issue is a sad joke. Everyone should see the film "SiCKO" and then demand more from our candidates.

Susan   February 17th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is the Mother of all Liars. I don't why anyone is surprised by this. Another example of her slash and burn politics. I don't know how anyone could support her. She knows this attack isn't true. However, truth is not important. What is important is that some people will believe her lies and that translates into votes. Please WI don't let her get away with it!

Obama 08

ed   February 17th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Go and get retire senator

Ted Christopher   February 17th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Which one of the seven doesn't get health care? The answer is they all do. The only people who wouldn't under Obama's plan, are the people who choose not to. Under Baracks plan, no one can be denied coverage for any reason and his plan will save the average family $2500 a year. Sounds like The Clinton Campaign is still doing all the same old tricks they did in the 90's.

Sam   February 17th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Kennedy clans are going nuts, I think Teddy should retire from politics, as he is growing old he is going nuts. He has lost my respect since he endorsed Obama, I genuinely believe his brother JFK will be turning and tossing in his grave wondering what has gone wrong with his family. Poor Teddy and poor Obami, one never became the president and other will never become, dreams remain dreams.

Peter Kavanagh   February 17th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

I think we'll see a lot more of this before Ma4 4 but it will only turn off more people . The Latest poll in Texas has him up 2% that's a 7% swing his way . Not bad considering she has been there for a week and he hasn't been .

It must be painful being a Clinton supporter knowing that the "fairy tale " is about to come to an end .
Obama 08

curtiswalker   February 17th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Fearmongering—is putting it lightly…..It is more like Clinton becoming Karl Rove!

CLINTON=ROVIAN DEMOCRATS

Now who the heck would want that as the Nations leadership again?

Lee AZ   February 17th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Obama's plan is about choice and Hilary's plan is about no choice. I thought America was about freedom and having choices. Hillary has tried this before and it failed but is still attempting the same plan in the same way. It will fail again. This is an attempt to put a spin and divert attention from the real difference with their plans and that is choice. As an American I want not only choices between plans but also a choice not to have one. 15 million may choose not to have a plan. As American's are we saying they shouldn't have this choice?

Dee   February 17th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

CLINTONS ARE ATTACK DOGS - NOT NEGOTIATORS!

In order to get anything through Congress, you need a personality that can draw people to work together.

Clintons continue to prove their pit bull fight and attack prowess, but no ability to speak straight and work together. It's all about power and limelight for Billary. Their vast political "experience" only proves how thoroughly corrupt they are. Just do a little research into the scandals & corruption that comes with Clinton - ism. They are in L.A. court this week for campaign contribution corruption, for God's sake!

When will people finally say NO to the Clintons and foul play?

King   February 17th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

The fact that Sen. Clinton stood on the podium with boxing globe, Signifys that as a losser, fighting the last battle the she and her husband will surly turn dirty. But the fact is that it´s too late for them. Americans are not fools and they can not be fooled.

bekai amar   February 17th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

i am 4 barak obama if americans realy need change then is barak barak obama the right mannnnnnnnnnn
this is not about black or white is only about change

Don Fitzgerald, Chicago   February 17th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

I agree with Senator Kennedy, let's knock off the negativity. Let Senator Clinton inform her staff that it makes no sense to tear down her fellow Democrat. Champion your own positions, don't rely on distortion or misrepresentations. After all, we need coattails to gain a stronger majority in Congress and we can accomplish that by Not tearing down our fellow Democrats.
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS, BRING THEM HOME, ALIVE. NOW.

Eric   February 17th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

The Clintons back on the attack. The same old Washington ways. I will never vote for her, or should I say them. . Never…..

Daniela from Berlin   February 17th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Well said!
Gosh, Mrs Clinton is getting on my nerves :(

Hey, dear American friends, if you are wondering what "the world" will say when you vote for Obama and he will become your president?
The answer is quite simple:
We will all love you and respect you again!!
No other candidate can accomplish that - believe me!!!

Please get it right this time - make this man your president!

And don't fall for the rhetorics of the cynics!! This man has more substance than the rest of them - he has the best to offer not only for your country, but indeed for the entire world.

Greetings from Germany,
Daniela

ontherocks99   February 17th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

That is funny coming from good old Ted. He has the nerve to talk.
As far as the pamphlet goes Obama sent one last week attacking Hillary's plan. I don't see the media jumping to post that.

At least Hillary's plan won't leave me out.

Can ANYONE tell me where Obama plans on getting the 250 billion dollars to make his ":change" happen?????

nelson   February 17th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Ask Senator Kennedy if Obama's plan would have saved the woman he drowned in Chapaquitic.

Barack Oprah   February 17th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

We do not need KENNEDYS!!!
Be aware, your time is over.
Go away!!!!

Donna F   February 17th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Well, if Teddy has been for health care for so long….why didn't he get anything done……???? Why is he all up in arms about it now…what does he do anyway??

Laura   February 17th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Can't Obama fight his own battles? Or does he need Ted Kennedy to always jump to his defense? Who will really be running the country if Obama becomes president?

An Agnostic Democrat   February 17th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Those are the same 7 people who won't be able to afford the mandated coverage she "offers" and will have their wages garnished, be fined or punished under Hillary's new (but really recylced) bureaucratic nightmare of a health care system.

A former member of Bill Clinton's adminstration, Robert Reich, has already stated that Hillary's plan is flawed (Still can't get it right the second time around!) and that Mr. Obama's is much more pratical, comprehensive and actionable.

kathleen, illinois   February 17th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

I do not kike her ads. They are desperate attempts to twist
the truth as with most politicians. It is not true that Obama
will leave 15 ,illion uninsured. Just not true. I hope that the
american people will no discover which is true and which
very false and not fair. Hillary's plan to have health insurance
for everyone, means that it will be deemed mandatory for everyone
to pay for their own insurance. I believe Obama's insurance
plan is to get with the drug company and special interest to
make reductions in cost so that the uninsured we be able
to obtain health care and not have to choose that they spend
their grocery money, utilities, cost of necessities on health care
that they cannot afford. Kennedy cares. GO OBAMA 2008

Democrat   February 17th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Clinton's tactics are straight from the republican play book.

Jenny   February 17th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

I think senator Kennedy should keep neutral. what he is doing is not good for a united democratic party.

Roc, Bridgeport, CT   February 17th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

I hope the Democratic Party can keep this whole thing from destroying this years general election. This definately has seemed to have gotten out of hand. I am a Obama supporter, However I got a lot of love for Hillary Clinton. At the end of this primary season they're gonna have to work real hard to reunite this party together, and it might take them both to be on the ticket to make everybody happy. May God Bless us all!!!

OBAMA/CLINTON 08!!!!!

Steph, Philadelphia   February 17th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

I wonder what is wrong with Senator Clinton, she always go negative when she is frustrated. That's not the way to go. You can't belittle others for your own benefit.

Aillyn   February 17th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Kennedy's shocked and surprised? Coming from a Clinton, especially Hillary this is nothing to be surprised about.

Jonathan Rodriguez   February 17th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

I love how Kennedy turns a Blind eye to Obama's Attacks towards Hillary and whenever Hillary attacks back she is the bad person, I think like Obama is saying it is time for the same old to move out of the way, the first people to get rid off is the Kennedy's

Mark in WI   February 17th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

The three voting members of my household here in Wisconsin are all registered Republicans. Yet the Hillary campaign wasted their apparently much needed funds on sending 3 of these pamphlets to my home on the same day. Hillary supporters who fell for her money scam in recent weeks deserve to know how their hard earned dollars are being squandered. This type of irresponsible mismanagement is a clear indication that Hillary is not fit to handle our nation's economy.

Tom   February 17th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

fat teddy to the rescue

Rob   February 17th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Disgraceful. I hope it comes back and bites her.

MIWatch   February 17th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Obama, when you get the support from the old Washington folks: Sen. Kennedy & John Kerry, are you saying you are fresh and for change???? Obama those old folks in Washington will not bring change, but he has teamed up with the Oldest Folks in Washington: Kennedy Families!!! Will Obama bring change with these people behind him???

Jim, American in Paris   February 17th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

A lot of Americans think that you Ted would be much better off if you just got out of the picture and went to bed.

Hillary won your state handily and that should have taught you a lesson!!!

Sweet dreams.

Charlie   February 17th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

The Clinton's hitting below the belt - how suprising. Hopefully the people of Wisconsin wil not fall for it.

LaLainKCMO   February 17th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

I respect Hillary for many, many reasons … she is a phenomenal lady. But in light of some of what has gone on in her campaign, her team, her comments and the tactics (with all due respect to the true meaning of that word), I just feel that she is better suited for a Cabinet position. It is hard-core people like this that we need pushing the initiatives through Congress, Committees and the special interest groups.

Since Obama and Clinton agree on almost all of the issues, I truly believe that Clinton would make an outstanding Cabinet member and Obama would make a better leader, unifier, statesman and President.

Independent for Obama   February 17th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Shame… Shame… Shame on the Lying Billary Campaign!!!

If she stays positive… she loses.

Positive Hillary vs. Positive Obama… Hillary LOSES!!!

Jus   February 17th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

If Kennedy and Kerry are so ready for change… I'm surely ready to see them retire…. OUT WITH THE OLD…. At least those two.. they are worthless extreme liberals…. Like Obama…. We need leadership down the middle.. we need a true leader.. we need hillary clinton

J.Gabriel   February 17th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

It amazes me that Democrats actually believe Obama is for extending Health Care for this country. If he truly believed in protecting everyone he would have adopted a plan that mandated coverage for everyone, like the Hillary and Edward’s plans. What’s his deal, doesn’t he know that every day at-risk-women on Medicare refuse mammograms because of $10 co-pays? That is just one example that proves, for some, any choice to opt out will mean taking their chances to save a buck and that just ends up costing everyone else in increased premiums when hospitals & doctors get stiffed by the uninsured. It’s Obama’s naiveté that allows him to believe that cost is the only thing preventing everyone from having health insurance, either that or he is really a Republican on this issue and his Health Care platform is just another political platitude he doesn’t believe in but can’t get the nomination without…

Sue   February 17th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Kennedy is 1000% wrong on this issue. Clinton is the only one willing to fight for fair prescription pricing through Medicare and to offer a truly universal plan. She is the only one talking about expanding mental health coverage. Read Paul Krugman and other economists and healthcare experts who fault Obama's health plan for lacking teeth. On this issue Kennedy is wrong. Maybe that is why he could not deliver his own state.

Jacob   February 17th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Obama says that HILLARY IS too much a part of "business-as-usual in Washington" to bring about reform.

Cindy   February 17th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Does the good Senator have an similar opinion of the Harry and Louise like pamphlets sent out by camp Obama which grossly distorted Sen. Clinton's healthcare plan? I didn't think so.

Charlotte   February 17th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Kennedy is the new politics? Is this the change Obama is talking about? How is a health-care plan that cost almost as much as Hillarys' a better plan? As a super delegate Obama thinks should support the voters of their state, shouldn't you be supporting Hillary? Why is it he wants to change some of the rules if they favor him, but not the other way around. What are his plans for NAFTA? How can he just say we will pull all troops out of Iraq by such and such a date? What are his plans to fix this ecomony? What are his plans to deal with the problems in his homeland? Maybe you plan on leading him around by the nose. He will need some of the old politicions like you and Kerry.

Anonymous   February 17th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Yeah, all this about Clinton putting out negative ads. Obama is just as bad. NAFTA pamphlets, negative TV ads. Kennedy is a hack.

Jeff   February 17th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Obama's plan doesn't cover all people. I want everyone covered. It's not fear mongering. It is the truth.

Doug IL   February 17th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

There was no misrepresentation in the Clinton flyer. If Kennedy wants to see misrepresentation, he should take a look at flyers the Obama campaign has been sending out in every state since Connecticut. His whole campaign is based on smearing Hillary, stealing her issues and positions, and then saying she copied him. I am delighted, though, that more and more people are seeing through Obama, for the empty candidate he is. And, Kennedy is no one to talk about misrepresentation; he salvaged whatever of his political career he could by misrepresentating facts concerning a certain little incident at Chappaquiddick. If he hadn't hidden out for 12 hours after the accident, until he could sober up, he'd have spent a good portion of time in the slammer for manslaughter, if not murder.

J   February 17th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

This coming from a man who covered up a lady's murder… I have faith in this Kennedy… Get over it man… retire

jacq   February 17th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I would like for Hillary to explain to the American people during media time and mailings why her past healthcare program failed to accomplish what she says wll happen now. She was in the white house then, what make her think she can pull it off this time by being in the white house 09.

d   February 17th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Kennedy go back to bed !

Farrell, Houston, Tx   February 17th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Fearmonglers is what Americans no longer will tolerate after 7 plus years and this exactly what the Clintons are doing but it will no longer work. Hillary give your fearmonglers advice back to Karl Rove if that's where you got it, we don't want it. Vote Obama.

Deb IL   February 17th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

If Obama actually gets the nomination and if I was the Clintons, I would sure remember Sen. Kennedy's remarks when they are begging Bill and Hillary to campaign for them to try and recapture the Democratic voters who are so turned off of Obama. Sen. Kennedy needs to retire, no one cares what he says after all of his shameless antics over the years.

STOP THE PRESSES!!   February 17th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

That's right Teddy… you tell her! I agree with everything he said, except for one thing. What Hillary did does not surprise me in the least. She has demonstrated time and time again that she will say and/ordo ANYTHING to win! Not gonna happen Hill! The American public has pulled your card…and ripped it up! Hillary Clinton — Wrong for America, and… well, JUST WRONG! I'm Sally Starbuck and I approve this message!

andrew   February 17th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Tell Ted We do not care what he thinks!!!

Tom, ALBUQUERQUE, NM   February 17th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Senator Kennedy and Obama is selling a bunch of cow-pie. How does Kennedy figure Obama will be albe to build a coalition. Why haven't Obama done so already. In his time in the senate Obama hasn't done crap. This malarky won't sell, Obama and his supporters are pushing this coalition malarky…Don't you people even know the definition of democracy?

Chris from Nebraska   February 17th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

If only Ted Kennedy hadn't let that woman die, she might have the opportunity to see his fear-mongering as well as Clinton's.

Barbara-California   February 17th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Pulling out….all the stops…..eeehhh Hillary? I guess there are still people who believe the printed word, over "real facts"….this isn't new….is it? Guess it all depends on your interpretation of…..".Which"……..

Congress has their own Healthcare Plan and believe me…..it doesn't even resemble the "average joe's"……they are pulling the wool over the eyes of the public….

Aaron Smithsburg, Maryland   February 17th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

This whole media establishment is nothing but fear-mongering. But you all get your reporting from one source the AP wire. Where's the investigative journalism. Operation Mockingbird is alive and well. And no
cute pictures of baby polar bears is not journalism.

James D.   February 17th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

The proof continues to pile up. The Clintons' are willing to say and do anything to win… it's ALL about them. Megalomania.

The Truth   February 17th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

I remember all too well the Hillarycare of 1992 — the plan that was so despised that it helped the Repubs sweep Congress in 1994. It doesn't matter what

David Jones   February 17th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

how negative of the clintons?

If Billary wins the democratic nomination by hook or crook, I will VOTE 4 MORE YEARS OF "BUSH" McCAIN!

GO OBAMA!

Inde1   February 17th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Kennedy needs to get a life. What is he talking about dirty politics? Remember, it was his brother John the one that abandoned the cubans in the bay of pigs! No wonder Ted changed sides to Obama, it runs in the family!

alice marie amos   February 17th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

ted,i forgive you because you are a kennedy

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