February 21, 2008
Posted: February 21st, 2008 09:15 PM ET
ALT TEXT

AUSTIN, Texas (CNN) - Clinton successfully brought up the issue of healthcare - an issue where she clearly thinks she has the upper hand over Obama.

She is calling for mandated coverage, while Obama is calling for reduced costs that he says will result in everyone buying coverage.

On the substance of this issue she has a very strong case. Most economists agree Obama's plan will not result in universal health care. Why? Because no matter how cheap it is, if given the option, some people will still prefer to purchase something else.

But Obama tactfully used the issue to make a larger point he has been repeatedly been touching on tonight. He says even if the two disagree slightly on the issue, he has a better chance to get it passed because of his fundamentally different approach - he paints himself as a consensus builder while Clinton is a partisan fighter.

It’s an argument that is central to his change theme.

– CNN Senior Political Analyst Bill Schneider

Filed under: Bill Schneider


Trey   February 21st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Obama has done a great job

Don   February 21st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

But Obama not only voted against the Iraq war: he actually predicted with very great accuracy what the consequences would be. I think he won that debate.

Liz   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Hillary has ideas and has stated what she will do for healthcare and education. I have not heard anything that has any substance from Barack Obama. The media has done nothing but play him up. Give equal comments to both. That's the trouble. Just because he is a new guy on the scene does not make him ready. He's a good orator, but has no solutions. He says he's for Israel, but most Jewish people know he is not. She is smart, has proper english and can do the job. Go Hillary!!

maureen   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Both candidates should be asked why they are so supportive of universal health care when it has failed in Canada and it failed a vote in California.
The only change both of them they are thinking about is the change they will be taking out of all our pockets. I'm voting for McCain.

shanna   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Hillary is by far the better choice and I think she has proved it during this debat. Perhaps the media will give her some posivite coverage for once. I want MY canidate, NOT the canidate the media has choose for me!

Pat   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Rosemarie has an excellent point – ask Obama whey he has taken the endorsement of Sen. Kerry who also voted yes on the Iraq paper.

ANGIE   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

i believe sentor clinton,s health care position is better then sentor obama,s, because she is for universial health care for everyone. and, formore, most people if it is only an option to get healthcare they will not do it no matter how cheap it is. some people always want to slide by and do nothing for their own care . just like if given a choice some people would not by car insurance. and, of course, we all know there are those who still don,t do it . but at least most people do thank god because it is mandated that they do so.

E. Murray   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

How do we know if Senator Clinton has the necessary experience? Just because she resided at the White House, doesn't mean that she is more equipped. What about when she folded to the pressure of the healthcare corporations and the pharmaceutical company's while Bill Clinton was president? If she folded to them because of pressure, what else will she fold to as Commander in Chief? As a matter of fact, she received funds to stop her efforts and she STOPPED! WE AS A NATION SHOULD BE WORRIED and CONCERNED that perhaps she will sell out just like our current administration!

Laura   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

At leat John Kerry said he was wrong. Hillary is like W, she has never made a mistake.

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

KIT – Indeed , he can give a speech but can't debate – it takes a president who can think on their feet – give solutions – that 's the kind of president I want – GO Hiliary!!!!!!

Tyler Ragin (11 yr. old, Af. Amer. Female)   February 21st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

Sen. Clinton does have an advantage that Sen. Obama does not. Former Pres. Clinton (her husband) left this country with a financial surplus and not in the financial hole that Pres. Bush and VP Cheney will be leaving us in. I am scared for my generation because the Bush family has robbed us of our ability to get ahead in the next 20 years because we are in a financial hole as a country that is so deep it will take us 30 years to get out of.

A Dileehia   February 21st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

Clinton is not driving this issue home. If this is her bread and butter, you cannot tell. This seems to be an issue that Obama is owning in addition to all of the other issues.

JJ   February 21st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

TALK ABOUT THE WAR? TALK ABOUT US NOT HAVING ENOUGH SOLDERS TO FIGHT THE WAR, TALK ABOUT WHAT??? HER HUSBAND BILL CLINTON CLOSED BASES WHEN HE WAS IN OFFICE,. SHE TALKS ABOUT WHAT SHE HAS DONE, HECK WELL IF SHE HAS DONE ALL THAT, THEN WHAT DID BILL CLINTON DO? AFTER ALL HE WAS OUR PRESIDENT AT THE TIME NOT HILAREY CLINTON, I DO NOT WISH TO SEE HER GETTING MY TAX DOLLOR AS HER HUSBAND IS GETTING NOW $440,0000.00 A YEAR, FOR WHAT? OSSADA BIN LADDEN MR CLINTON COULD OF HAD A LONG TIME AGO, WHERE WAS HE? WHAT WAS HE DOING, INSTEAD OF TOURING THE WORLD WITH THERE DAUGHTER AND GETTING GIFTS AND ETC WHILE HE WAS IN OFFICE, HE SHOUOD OF WORKED HARDER,. DON'T THINK I COULD EVER SEE HER AS MY PRESIDENT.................OUR BASES WERE IMPORTANT TO KEEP OUR COUNTRY SECURE, NOT CLOSE BASES LIMITING OUR MEN, SO HERE WE ARE, AND ITS ALL BING MR BUSH IS FAULT NOW? I DON'T THINK SO, PEOPLE NEED TO LOOK,READ AND UNDERSTAND WHAT IS GOING ON....................WAKE UP

Rollin Porter   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Hilary Clinton was not able to pull off universal health care in the 90's as the first lady. I have no confidence that she can do it in the 00's as president. How about giving Obama a shot at it. He seems to have a better grip on all the issues that face America.

Universal health care seems to be something that Clinton feels can be pulled off by forcing all to buy into a program. Obama, on the other hand, seems to feel that choice should be the basis for the heath care program in America. Logic tells me that choice is a better way to go. Americans are not very receptive to being forced to do anything. Force is not a good idea, now or ever.

Saxman   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Her mandate is simple and will take more money from American people, its not that we dont want health care, its that we can't AFFORD IT. Let me get health care before i get the charge clinton imposes for not getting health care and skip on my rent this month. make since really Hillary. Obama 08!!!

tony   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

I believe Obama can make America Better

Natalie   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Obama said it best Hillary negotiated behind closed doors and did not accomplish her mission when she had the chance so how can she say she will now. Obama will bring a new approach and he will get it done!

ABrown   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Wake-up people – Hillary had a chance to bring Health care to Americans and failed. Remember, if she does not win in your state, then your state and your votes will all of a sudden be irrelevant.

Canuck   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

What matters more a good speaker or a great debater? The issues are what count and Hillary can explain them in a logical, clear way. In a head to head debate with McCain for the Presidential election, Hillary can bring the goods!

Hillary '08

Laura   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Hillary's position on Iraq is weak. Barack can debate McCain from the high road.

david   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

SO LETS GET THIS STRAIGHT.WE PAY INSURANCE COMPANIES FOR HEALTH COVERAGE,AND INSURANCE COMPANIES PAY HILLARY ABOUT $865,000 TO KEEP HER MOUTH SHUT AND FORGET REFORM.SHE ACCEPTED THE MONEY AND WHAT TYPE OF INSURANCE WE GOT?$47 MILLION AMERICANS WITHOUT HEALTH COVERAGE.SO NOW SHE WANTS TO MANDATE COVERAGE.SO POINT 2: INSURANCE COMPANIES GET RICHER AND WHEN HILLARY GARNISHES YOUR WAGES BECAUSE YOU CANT AFFORD THE COVERAGE.SHE GETS RICHER!WHAT A DEAL

jr   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

If other rich and developed countries have universal health care care, why not the US? Just today, Healthnet is being sued by a local government because it cancels policies when the policy holder requires expensive treatment. Insurance companies have thrive very well in this country. Mandating healthcare is the way to go for preventative and healthcare maintenance and reduce costs.

Denise   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

I guess people only hear what they want to hear! I think that Obama as well as Hillary were able to give examples about their international experience. At least Obama is willing to engage our enemies, and not just when it's "politically appropriate". unlike Hillary that until recently would not even engage our enemies.

mndharmas   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Superdesperate Hillary seeks superdelegates

Troubleshooter   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Nice try folks. Search the Senate record for Senator Obamas record of accomplishments. By the way you have to READ to do that.

Robert   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Obama is a good man. He is not ready to be President.

Kelly   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

Kerry's vote has nothing to do with Obama's opposition to the war - Kerry has long admitted it was a mistake. Sheesh.

And as for Clinton's "overwhelming" knowledge and experience...where has that gotten us? How did her health care plan play out the last time she tried to pawn it off on the American public?

In fact, that's one of the reasons she's losing - people don't want forced, socialized health care and the big government that goes with it.

Obama's plan is voluntary...makes much more sense.

Kim Ohio   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

He's doing just fine pf...
Rosemarie... when have you ever known someone to say "take back that endorsement"?
That is a ridiculous statement.
He isn't making her the owner of the war just pointing out a fact that she supported it. Kerry is not running against him but I'm positive if he were he'd get the same treatment.

Vickey   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Hillary gives a perfect example of talking just to be talking.

Yes, she gives the impression that she is thinking of everyone but she's not. People can't be forced to purchase insurance. If they refuse, the fine is on the employer, when that happens they fire employees who cost them more than they are willing to pay. So, you are uninsured then you are jobless and all because you wanted insurance.

mndharmas   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

She does things that sound popular. there she goes saying aginst crnism. Heloo Clintons don't do cronism ask CNN

changing times   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

HIllary was the captain of her debate team in college. She is a smoother debater. That doesn't make her a better president. Presidents make speeches and very seldom debate.

Beth   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

She's had a lot of experience in "pretending" or rather "acting like she cares". She has to soften her "image" to get people to like her. Are you a Professional in your career that you don't stumble? It's a lot of pressure, and I think he can handle it. She's too broad, she couldn't hand the pressures of war.
Bill dropped the ball on 9/11/01, with all reports, as a new President with trying to get caught up. Hear her about Bush and "surplus" money. Tax cuts I do taxes for corporations and individuals. I don't believe she could live under a budget of $75k a year.

Nikki   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

I'm in the military and we need Clinton as our President…..Solutions verses Ideas…..Solutions verses Good Speeches. This is not a popularity test….this is our future and our country.

Juan Carlos(Vegas)   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Rosemarie I want you to be Clinton's adviser. You are clever

Joe   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Is anybody foolish enough to believe that Hillary or Obama will be standing in line with us peasants waiting to see a doctor.

CK   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

I think Hillary is making herself look like a spoiled brat and a fool. She isn't even able to remain professional when listening to Obama's comments.

It makes me wonder if she would be making similar faces as president when in discussion with various world leaders who have opposing views??? Luckily, I don't think this is something we'll ever have the opportunity to see!

Tony   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Its always easy making promises, Universal health care cost England $240 billion dollars a year, We have a population of 56 million, your population is 5 times that. How will Hillary pay for it, she quotes a figure of $90 billion, Which planet is she on, certainly not earth B Obama is being realistic ad achievable in his goals for health care

Jeremiah   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Clinton may be able to show more knowledge and experience but you have to look at the age difference. She has had more time to do more things throughout her life. Obama is just like Kennedy. Kennedy had no experince as far as being president but he was still inexperienced. And of course he would stumble a little to make sure he get his words clearly out because if he says something wrong the media will eat him up!!!

Yolanda   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Kerry isn't up for a presidential nomination. If it were him against Kerry, Obama would be putting Kerry through the same questions.

tc   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

this doesn't seem like a debate. both are so similar. Barack is seen as a change while Hillary is seen as the same old same old. Change is needed....

erika   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Yep, socialized medicine has worked so well already here. Have seen the medicaid rosters lately. I think we give more than enough people welfare, and we pay for it and them to have more and more babies. How about them investing in the system to help themselves. Get a little pride in yourselves or move to Canada. Go to Great Britian and you could pull your own teeth. Socialism, Stalinism, Welfarism all the same.

Hollywood   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Hillary is more prepared to be president. Obama is a great talker but voters need to realize that we are looking for someone to lead the country for the next 4 years. Theres a reason Obama wanted to go second. He doesn't have any original ideas. And its pretty sad when the one thing you're known for, giving speeches, is found to be just words patched together from other speeches.

IG   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I can't believe Hillary Clinton voted to authorize this disaster in Iraq. I can't trust her to make the right judgement on day one.

Josh   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Its Forced Healthcare (Hillary) vs. Affordable Healthcare (Obama)

TKNIGHT   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

What part does Hillary not get...most people that don't have health insurance coverage can't afford it. How does mandating healthcare coverage (making people pay for it that can't afford it now) help?

KY for Obama   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Kerry is not running for president Mrs. Bill is

Tyler Ragin (11 yr. old, Af. Amer. Female)   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

what foreign relations has Sen. Clinton had that her husband, former Pres. Clinton has not built for her. She has been campaigning to be Pres. the past 3 yrs. not building foreign policy or relations.

angie   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Is senator Kerry running from president????????????

Rick   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Mandating healthcare cover sounds decidedly socialist, which means plenty of people will be against it.

Obama's approach allows people to make a choice, which means plenty of people will be indifferent to it.

Only one of these builds concensus across party lines.

georgia dem   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Rosemarie
good point!!

Jan in MI   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I watched part of the debate, but I was so disgusted with the way he looked, like I am the nominee.....why am I even debating.

I have all the answers.....will fix all our problems...I am the messiah for the nation. I don't think he's ready to be The President of the United States.

I think Hillary has the solutions, for sure in healthcare, which is a huge problem in our country.

I also agree Hillary has more knowledge about international relations. She lived through all of this with Bill....she has to have hands on knowledge of international relations....she also traveled extensively.

Maybe we should have a dream ticket of Clinton-Obama.

Maria   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Yes she may have more experience than Obama has in this case, but I believe when presented with various proposals that Obama would make a more educated decision that would target most Americans, and benefit them as a whole for their families monatary expenses.

A Independent, Chicago, IL   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Hillary failed to reform healthcare once already, why should we trust her now?
And in all honesty, the mandate with the accompanied penalties doesn't make sense to me.
If someone can't afford health care under Hillary's plan they get fined, which only makes matters worse!

carl kc.   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Bill , she has to have a chance to respond, no knock her down for that. Health is very important a she should have her say.

Sush   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

It`s obvious that he is the winner of this debate...

Jane   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

I meant he doesn't know how HE would have voted because he was NOT there.

rudy   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Get used to long lines, inferior care, and high cost. Every thinking adult knows there is no such thing as something for nothing. everything cost you or somebody something. You can pay with money or you can pay with time, chose money at least you'll get your care on time. also think about the brain drain, less qualified people will be taking care of you. Can you imagine how great our education system would be if teachers got paid very well for their work.

Eddie   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

That's a good point, so did John Kerry. Yet he took those endorsements.

angie   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

You can have as much experience as you like, however if you do not have anyone in your corner that will be willing to help you put your experience to work your experience does not matter. You will be sitting in the White House with a resume that reflects experience and nothing will be getting accomplished.

georgia dem   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

it is the same old rah rah from Obama
Clinton is much better prepared
she has my vote

Anne   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

You are absolutely right Tanya! Why is half of america so duped by Obama? She rocks on the issues.

Jamaal   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

She can give examples of international relations expertise...after she's sent henchman to scout for her first. As President, she's too important to meet with enemy leaders.

SH   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

He is smart, but She is Brilliant. Why does that CNN woman keep cutting Hillary off.

Byron Goodgame   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

It's obvious that Hillary has more experience, I'm just not sure that rings home with the viewers of the show over the sound bites that Obama offers. His answers aren't any different than what he says during his speeches.

larry palmer   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Clinton's in your face, my way or the highway attitude is what got health care for everyone stopped when Bill was in charge. Division politics is over, so is Hilery.

Jane   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Clinton needs to go back to Iraq...and emphasize how he wasn't even in the Senate to vote and has admitted that he doesn't know how she would have voted.

Genia (KY)   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Perhaps Clinton has traveled to other countries more than Obama, however, she has NOT gone as the President. There are a lot of country leaders who do not respect women, nor will they listen to a woman. Obama is a calmer person, thus, he will be better at negotiations with country leaders.

Pat   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

I think the moderators are doing a terrible job. They are asking Senator Clinton every initial question, which gives Sen. Obama an excellence chance to piggyback on her responses, then an excellent opportunity for him to elaborate even further on the issue. They allow Obama a chance to respond in length, but Campbell cuts Clinton off everytime she wants to say additional comments. Obvious, one-sided favoritism going on tonight.

gerry   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

that's because they are not his speeches

David   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

You can't make people purchase health care for themselves. Are we going to start holding everyone's hand? If we make it affordable people will buy it. If they don't they are irresponsible and need to be dealt with in other ways. Let's not make it so people stop thinking for themselves

Cindy McCain   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I'm voting for Mr. Obama

D Bowers   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Tonya is that plagerisum

AR FALVO   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I failed to finish my point about Obama as a consensus builder..Hillary is even now known as a very divisive personality while Bush had no real past record to show what a bull headed and non apologetic politican he turned out to be.. So it is clear to me that this is one more reason why Hillary will not be a "great unifier" similar to what Bush did!

maxine   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Yes check her record out on international relations, she traveled as first lady on tax payers money all over the world to promote her book it takes a village. Then old Bill started to get into domestic troubles in the White House and she had to come home to support him.

Leonard Voellinger   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Obama missed the chance. Clinton left herself wide open on NAFTA.

Kevin - Jonesboro, GA   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Tonya – Meeting international dignataries as First Lady does not equate to international relations experience. Barack's willing ness to meet with allies and enemies is what the country needs, not more of the same of Bush's arrogance.

TAMower in Oklahoma   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Obama appears naive and rather uninformed about the issue. How can you change something you don't understand? Does he not understand that a lot of people will see even $25 a month as too much to pay for health care? This guy worse than a social worker just out of graduate school. He needs some time on the street!

Morie Mussaffa   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

HILLARY'S FIGURES ARE RIGHT ON NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE:

Obama said that his policy will cover 95% of Americans, which means 5% will not be covered. Mrs. Clinton said that 15 million Americans will be left out by Obama's policy.

There are 300 million Americans. 5% of 300 million is 15 million. So Hillary is right.

Linda   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

She ought to know about healthcare, she has been working on little else for 20 years

KY for Obama   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

This isn't a debate, it is an ouline of beliefs

True Democrat   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I really think that overall Obama's healthcare plan is more realistic. She is really looking desperate right now and quite unfavorable. Obama is definitely still ahead!!

Norm in Fort Lauderdale   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I think Hillary is doing an excellant job,

Amanda   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

All he does is parrot her responses and gathers undeserved applause for his efforts.

W.A. Davis   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Tonya T - do your homework! Obama has more elected experience and has done more with that time in an elected position than she has. Truthfully – look it up!

Ashley   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

NO SHE CAN'T! BUT YES WE CAN!!! SHE IS PETTY, CHILDISH AND DOESN'T NEED TO BE IN THE WHITE HOUSE!!! OBAMA HAS HANDLED HIMSELF SO WELL AND ANSWERED EVERY QUESTION UNLIKE HILLARY WHO TENDS TO SWAY AWAY FROM THE QUESTION!!!!

AD   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

If Hillary Clinton wanted healthcare reform 10 years ago she should have NOT had closed discussions with the healthcare corporations and lobbyist. She is on their payroll and that is why Americans do not trust her. She lies SO MUCH, that the good stuff she says sounds good, but people do not believe her. Obama, maybe a less able to debate well. But, Obama is a real person. And when he speaks its from the heart. Hillary is a PROVEN liar. I do not want to be misled for another 8 years.

Beth   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

If you want more SCANDALS in the White house and the reputation of the American People to a downward spiral ok. I believe his cabinet will be sound and secure. I am a white young woman, husband retiring from the US Navy in we both sustained our marriage of 20 years. This is either Obama or McCain. She may be a woman, but do you think she'd really come out to help you? Universal healthcare seems great, but did you see Michael Moore's SICKO? The people have to WAIT to have a surgery, WAIT until this or that for a treatment. SURE they get in the ER faster? Free Drugs? Cuba is full of them. Get our economy moving, have you ever been to NJ? Pharmaceuticals are are everywhere, and are getting paid and their expenses for entertainment are crazy for lawmakers and doctors etc... I wish they'd share some of that money... you know cut their costs. WalMart trying to become a Universal Drug Store for their lower costs. My Father can afford his meds now... he's in poor health without them.

AJ   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I believe the Tonya is right. Tonight's debate has finally drawn some stark contrasts between the fact that Obama just doesn't have enough experience.

joywinnebago   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I hope she NEVER drops this issue. He's just plain wrong on this topic.

LJR   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I agree Tonya!! He has been stumbling all night!!

bdubb   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

She can also give examples of how she supported the war too!!! The question isn't are you ready day one, it's can you be right day one!! Can Hillary support the war in Iraq? YES SHE DID!!!!

rick   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

she doesn't have the knowledge or experience to manage her own relationships let alone the affairs of our nation

Noah   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

We have heard more than enough about this issue and it is clear Obama's plan is the one that will actually get through congress and work. He has the right idea about making a solid plan affordable. Hillary had her chance to get her plan done, and her time has come and gone.

Clarence   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

YES! But I think OBAMA proved that being a wife doesn't make you a leader! NAFTA is like an albatross around her neck!

gerry   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

In Canada we have health care EVERYONE is covered. That is what Hillary Clinton has been trying to do since day one. We pay for it through our taxes it doesn't even show that we do, but when we are sick it helps like when I had cancer I thank the day health care was introduced to us

bruce wilson   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Having tea as the First Lady does not equate to interational relations expertise!

Eric Trivano   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

I believe that it is unfair that Clinton is always recieves the first question. This is giving Obama an opportunity to get an idea of what to say. He also does not stick to the question being asked and drifts of to say fluff he knows people want to hear

Keep listening to what he's saying and you'll know what I mean

KY for Obama   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Do I detect a hint of plagiarism, Tonya?

cody   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Once again, Schneider give the upper hand to Obama, I see a pattern here.

Trey   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

He is having his best debate! go Obama

AMG   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

I think Clinton has it all wrong. Another right of people she wants to take over and take away. A citizen's right to choose. She wants to mandate health care coverage, whether a person can afford it or not. If the government uses the same formula to decide if a person can afford health care as they do to determine how much a family can afford to contribute to their children's college education, we will have people's salaries being garnisheed and American's will take home less under that plan than they do now.

Mark   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Obama is carrying himself clouds above Clinton tonight. She's coming off as petty and disparate. He's willing to talk about the issues while she is constantly trying to drag the debate into the gutter. GREAT JOB OBAMA!!!

Tyler Ragin (11 yr. old, Af. Amer. Female)   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Sen. Obama should not let Sen. Clinton control his debate. He allowed her to get him charged up about the healthcare issue, when he should have answered the hispanic gentleman's question instead of seeming as though he had to defend his healthcare policy. Now people will focus more on that instead of all the other policies that he seems to have the upper hand on Clinton with.

Melissa   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Ok, Senator Obama states that adults can purchase their insurance plans under his policy. I'm 30 years old, unemployed, no health insurance, and live at home with my parents. I don't qualify for Medicaid or low-cost healthcare because my family's gross, not net monthly income is tabulated. We make too much money! Forget the fact that I'm unemployed and my parents are broke after paying the bills. We just had to have our propane tank filled because it was getting low and would you believe it totaled about $980. We simply have no extra money. Where would I be covered under your plan? I don't see where I would fit. I feel that I I'm in the bracket that Hillary Clinton is speaking of!

Dan Lancianese   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Clinton had her chance in 93 to get universal health care. She showed then how bad she was as a "leader" on the issue while it died in the back rooms which is what her and Bill are famous for. Is this what our country needs as a president?

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Quite simply put, Hillary is politics the same old way, no real change. That is why Obama is riding high, the people want change, they don't want the same old thing and Hillary is old.

Larry   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Once again I think that Hillary got the best of Obama with her health care proposals. I think sometimes his brain shuts down while he is talking

yns   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

You Go Hillary! Obama keeps on stuttering and even more so the more you challenge him! HILLARY 2008

Alicia   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Obama is intelligent and accomplished. He is handling Clinton well. Obama will make a great president.

Willa   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Traveling as the first lady is not legitimate experience. She exagerates her experience. The international policy decisions she has made since being a sen. have been flawed.

Rosemarie   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I HOPE MY COMMENT ABOVE IS TAKEN TO THE DEBATE IT IS A SERIOUS THING THAT OBMA IS ACCUSING HILLARY OF

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

do i detect plagiarism?

Toni   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Obami is running against McCain; Shril is running Dub.

Michael-WI   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Maybe she can give healthcare to other countries because she wants to talk so much about it.

Dee   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Which debate are you watching Tonya?

Linda   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

True she is much more knowledgable..,but knowledge does not always cut it which is always the point he comes back to...along with experience comes political favors, ties and baggage:)

1Love   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

And what is Hillary's international relations experience – waving as she got off the plane in foreign countries on the coat-tails of Bill?

Boz   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I'm not sure what debate Tonya and Schneider are watching. Five straight posts on Clinton, when the overwhelming contrast was on Clinton's divisiveness versus Obama's ability to unite?

yours truly   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

wut a feminist remark ..it has no substance !!!!

Rosemarie   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

WHY HASN'T ANYONE ASKED OBAMA WHY HE HAS TAKEN THE ENDORSEMENT OF SEN.KERRY WHO ALSO VOTED YEA ON THE IRAQ PAPER................HILLARY IS NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO DID STOP MAKING HER THE OWNERSHIP OF THE IRAQ WAR.

Karen   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Is that Tonya from LA? I agree.

Amia Tanny   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Looks like it will take years for if President Obama to learn, by the time, the entire world will be ahead. Sad

jeff boaz   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Why dosen't anyone ever make Clintion stick to the question and give a straight answer

hesaterlynn   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

universal healthcare totally leaves out the military and the veterans. there is no hospital for them anywhere that is convenient. they would not be covered under UHC.......

Sunny   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Hillary we do not want MANDATES for adults. Americans are independent free thinking people. Please keep your mandates to yourself.

S

darrell   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Tonya – just becasue she travel the world as first lady – does not make her a expert on foreign policy.

beth from NY   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

AMEN!!!! Tonya T!!!

Suzy from TX   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I agree with you Tonya. Hillary can do it! People must realize that he gives no data like Hillary does when debating.

Charles   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

YES SHE CAN!

pf   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

he can give a speech but he can't debate

Linda   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Obama always thinks he can see the big picture and Hillary can't. I think he is wrong. Just like he keeps saying Hillary thinks people don't get heath insurance because they don't want to and he thinks they don't get it because they can't afford it. That is a distortion of what she is saying. She is saying everyone needs to make arrangements for health care coverage. If they cannot afford it, then they need to take advantage of the options she is offering for those people. He continually distorts that point.

Mattheus Mei   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

HRC practically went feral on this question – Obama has unnerved her. I think he's proven that his plan is about substance. He might not have a literal plan of Universal coverage, but at the very least it creates an ethos of Universal coverage, and he's done so in a way that shows the deep flaws in socialized "universal healthcare"

Tonya T   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Clinton has displayed overwhelmingly more knowledge and experience than Obama. Notice he stumbles and cannot give examples of his international relations expertise. Can Hillary? YES SHE CAN!

David Ostrowidzki   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Again he goes second and has the final word. You don't know what a debate is. Man this is infuriating.

DD   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

His plans are populist so he can get the independent vote, but his record does NOT reflect his position. I am sure that without universal care (like in Western Europe), the costs will NOT decrease to the point that everybody will buy into it. Look at factcheck.org to see which of Clinton's or Obama's plan will cover all.

Brooke   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Maybe I missed something, but I didn't hear Obama's larger point in this discussion.

paul in dallas   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Can't Campbell Brown get control of Hillary and her big mouth?

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

How about some facts? I looked up Obama's vote on CHIP (children's health insurance), which he said just now that he supports. He was NV (absent or not voting) on 3 out of four votes to renew CHIP. Hillary co-sponsored and worked and voted yes 4 out of four votes. If he supported it, why didn't he vote for it? How can he bring about change if he doesn't do the work to change things?

Brad   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

You can find the most beautiful flowers to send to someone, but if you don't have the means to send them then it's a moot point.

Rough n Tough Politics   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Eloquence did not help him here...

Leeroy   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

none of them answered the darn question on Commander-in-chief!

Rhonda C   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Clinton constantly state she is ready to be President at day 1. I need a President as well for the remainding 364 days. She talks a good talk but lets be realistic.

Laila   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

both of them have a plan and its more than the current administration has

jan denharder   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Clinton comes across as pushy and a bit cold to me...

Shun   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama is giving people a choise...

Hillary wants to shove her medicine down our throats.

Mark, Chicago   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

This question is dominating the debate. They can't get off it. The lunatics have taken over the asylum!

Greg   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

A different approach is what we need. The same old approach does not work.

matthew   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Clinton outlined her healthcare plan wonderfully.

It is clearly written to protect and insure ALL americans. She pointed out, as did Obama, that his plan would not.

Kevin - Jonesboro, GA   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

As a grown man, I do not want the government MANDATING me to buy insurance. I have been shopping aroung trying to find affordable insurance for myself. Hillary's plan leans too much towards socialism!!!

Ryedog   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

This is her area. She has had the vison and he yet again is trying to leap on the train

David Ostrowidzki   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Moderators...let Obama go first so Hillary can say I agree with Obama and then let Hillary add seven points and sound like she is the smarter candidate. Not the way CNN is running it. It's unfari. Let them rebut each other. Let them debate. Don't favor Obama.

Lynn In St. Louis   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Wow. Does Bill Schneider actually agree with Hillary Clinton?

Unless you mandate universal health care, not everyone will be insured. Yes, cost is important, but for many people, unless you FORCE them to buy insurance, any insurance, they will NOT do it, even if it was free.

When will Obama realize this?

Margaret Champion   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

She is baited to go on the defensive by the questions she is asked.

Ben Murphy   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

This debate – for one moment was a Lincoln-Douglas debate between the candidates, not just a series of questions and answers from the moderators. That was a great moment.

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Exactly – you have to build consensus to get anything done, he gets that, she doesn't

lloyd williams   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

She has been asked twice now about is Obama not a good commander in chief and not answered the question.

Ashley   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is out of order!!!! How dare she change the subject????? She is not the moderator of this debate!!!

Willie   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary got him!!!! People do not realize that Obama also has mandates on his plan. Way to go Hillary!!!!

Ben from D.C.   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

How ironic. Obama's plan is the one that can get things done. It isn't a hope of what would work best.

Julie   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

And it's a point that he is allowing for choice. The Republicans and Independents don't believe in universal healthcare. She represents a much smaller constituency when she proposes universal, mandatory health care.

Eric Keller, Detroit, Michigan   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Healthcare is also an extremely big issue, and Senator Obama has the best way to deal with it. He wants everyone that wants healthcare to be able to get it. By lowering the cost through a bi-partisan enactment that would bring together business, health professionals, wealthy Americans, but more specifically making insurance and pharmaceutical companies actually compete for our business instead of cooperate amongst themselves. Hillary Clinton, on the other hand, wants to mandate everyone to have health care. This is good in thought but many Americans simply don’t want it and can pay for it out of pocket, and the rest that don’t have it, don’t have it because they simply cant afford it. Like MYSELF for example, and under her plan, I would be fined for going to school and doing the right thing. Senator Obama’s plan would allow people like me to be able to stay on my parents healthcare plan until I’m 25, if I’m still in school. Clinton’s plan again lacks anything similar to this. Also she would be allowing the insurance, pharmaceutical and other special interest groups and companies to still lobby, possibly against the interests of the American people. This leads us to the politics of everything.

R. Koehler   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Senator Clinton wins on healthcare.

Stephen   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Point – Obama

Sylvia   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

"But Obama tactfully used the issue "

bias reporting from CNN

Dude   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Didn't Hillary fail miserably in her end around health care play when Bill was in office?

Tim   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama: "That mother will have health insurance under my plan"

HOW?? that's what empty words are about, his plan will leave that mother got slammed with heavy fines.

Alex from NYC   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Healthcare is supposed to be her strong point; if you ask me she blew it by taking it personal and giving the edge to Obama.

arpit   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I don't understand – the point is not to force people into healthcare – its to create a system that incentivizes voluntary participation!

KGS   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

sticky situation....

Tony   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

She has some strenght in this issue, he is not letting her take the show.

JenniferJ   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

He's really doing a better job than she is. Plus, she's looking miffed when he disagrees with her.

Don   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Obama looked unsure and bad here... not what I want in a President.

Ken in GA   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Finally, almost a debate...........go Barrack....Hillary had a chance for health care and could not ge it done

RK   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Will CNN ever give this woman some credit?

David Maestri, AR   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Obama and Clinton are almost exactly the same on every aspect of their campaigns with minor differences. I was just wondering how everyone feels about them as campaign partners. I think which ever candidate wins the democratic endorsement, should take the other candidate as their Vice-President, because they would know the other candidate would fulfill the plan that each other have set up because they feel the same about the topics. Just wondering how the candidates and everyone else feel about that.

Shari   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Obama says he can save a family as much as $2,500.00 per year. For two people I, as a small business owner, very small business, pay $24,000.00 per year for a mediocre coverage through a small business group plan. His savings isn't relief for me it's a discount, there's a difference. I need relief, I want universal healthcare.

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