February 21, 2008
Posted: February 21st, 2008 09:09 PM ET

AUSTIN, Texas (CNN) - "Change you can Xerox," Clinton just said.She is trying to continue making the plagiarism charge - that Obama lifted a portion of a speech from Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick - an issue.But that line seemed contrived to me.And Obama clearly enjoyed the plagiarism question, using it as an opportunity to portray the charge as an example of the "silliness" of Washington he is battling.Related: Watch Obama defend plagiarism charges

–CNN Senior Political Analyst Bill Schneider

Filed under: Bill Schneider


Kat from Va Beach   February 21st, 2008 10:57 pm ET

One should always acknowledge anothers quote immediately when using it...directly before or after you say it....not after you've been busted! I agree the words should be your own...and by the way please stop quoting, I mean Xeroxing, JFK and MLK enough is enough. If I want to channel the two of them I will calal a psychic!

Greg   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Are you kidding me! Clinton today at a ralley was chanting ,Yes we can , Yes me can. Now thats plagiarism.

Barbara   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

And, I'd like to wipe that saracastic "holier than thou" smirk/smile off her face! (Just go to picture on this website!)

CJ   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Hey Bill -

All of your headers start with Clinton. Obama is in this debate too.

Merri Gutierrez   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

When words are what you use to inspire and enthuse, we should expect that those words and ideas are genuine. Obama has made truthfulness and transparency his benchmarks and it is dissappointing that he, in effect, lied by borrowing lines of a speech, even from a friend. What that does is make those who are believers, truly believe they are his words. He, in effect, lied to us.

norman   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

"change" was central to Gov.Patrick's rehtoric but if you look at what 's
been accomplished in in the first yr. you'll be hard pressed to find
any accomplishments.My feel is that all the flourish by Obama will
be the same "much ado about nothing".

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Hillary is right! His whole campaign on change and he repeats overused words! She shows action he shows xeroxed words! Hillary is an excellent leader, she's a brilliant woman!

SM   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Bill, you must be watching a different debate than I am. Her line wasn't contrived. It was "going after him" exactly the way you said she should in your last post. And it was a funny, "ballsy" line, so good for her!

I have read your comments on all the democratic debates so far, and you've never been able to be unbiased, so I guess I shouldn't be surprised.

Hillary is shining in spite of your spin.

Armando   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

I believe that Hillary lost the debate when she went off on the plagiarsm issue. Barack was obiously upset with her comment, but kept his composure. She would have appeared more professional and mature if she would'nt have taken the bait.

Moncille   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Petty, petty politics on her part...I'm sure her speechwriters and co-chairs have huddled with her on speeches and the like. This is the kind of thing that America IS tired of...enough...stick to the REAL problems, issues and solutions!

mndharmas   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

CNN should compare the accomplishments of these two for the american people. Americans know hillary more for her role as the cheated upon first lady of Arkansas and America

Issie   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Hillary is debating the same old washington politics. She talks too much and too polarize. If she didn't fix healthcare in 8 years what makes you think she will fix it if elected. you had your chance Hillary with the backroom deals.

ginger   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Wish Hillary would drop the plagiarism thing. So it was a paragraph. I hear her pick up things Obama says all the time.

me   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Highlight of the night so far.

shannon   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

The 'change you can xerox' comment made Hillary look desperate and small. It was obviously a manufactured sound bite that was anything BUT spontaneous, and when she got it in, you could easily imagine her cranky, cornered staff crafting it just for tonight's debate. Hillary's performance tonight is a perfect example of exactly why I don't want to see her as our president.

chefidel   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

It simple you can't have a debate with a great debater and obviuosly Obama is a great one .

Louise Walker   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Why are we not asking how much of her speechs have come from her husbands? Let's compare??

John Scott   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

You are right the line was contright – but it does speak to integrety – this is the highest position in the "land" – I want my President to have integrety – I think Hillary wins this one.

A Dileehia   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Obama owned Hillary on this issue. He is rocking in thie debate!

chris   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Except for "just words?" isn't everything else–FDR's words, the Declaration of Independence, JFK's remarks–in the public domain?

Hillary is desperate, and she should "get real".

E. Murray   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

I agree that Senator Clinton's continued focus on the plagiarism charge is "silly". This is the type off foolishness that has our country in its continued state of distress! It is truly time for change! Change in the way we pursue the way we strengthen our country and if she continues to attack him on foolish issues, she is going to hinder any chance she has to become president of the United States. The American people are tired of this behavior!

Shawna in Austin   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

I recorded the debate so am a little behind real-time, but I was just wondering if Hillary got a kick-back from Xerox Corporation for using their name in the debate? She does have a lot of corporate backers, you know...

2001snake   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

WAKE UP PEOPLE.. Obama does not have one original idea nor plans for this Great Country. He is like a college kid (maybe that is why they are being hoodwinked) plagiarizing, cult revival like speeches and the proposed changes he will make when he is president; from Hillary Clinton.

Obama has cannibalized several proposed issues and their words from the other candidates. During the debate (Calif) , Obama was asked a few questions and he proceeded to repeat a statement either Hillary Clinton or John Edwards previously made. It is startling as to how many times he uses other candidates statements.

And just now when he was talking about the health care issue he again used language from one Hillary Clinton's speech.

Kim Ohio   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

I liked the silly politics comment. She just couldn't resist taking this to the gutter. She worked on that Xerox comment all week and she wasn't going to leave that stage until she got it out. Obama is sticking to the issues, answering the questions that are posed and showing that he is indeed ready to be our President.

Cindy Hillary   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Hillary needs to take lessons from Barack on how to speak without using the "I" word every other sentence.
It is evident she is losing this battle and is not the person America needs to bring this country back to what it used to be.
We all need change and we all need dreams, which is apparent by the young voters supporting him. Iam a young "60" and feel inspired that we have a candidate like Mr Obama.

Politically Speaking   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Dissapointed

Of course it will be negative front page news....it was a negative comment! Can't you tell by the way the audience booed her?

nanette   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Obama was recycling Clinton's words as soon as she finished !!!

Heidi Kaiktsian   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Obama nailed it..........Hilary came off sounding childish and petty!

Matthew   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

The Boos said it all.

laura   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

My baloney has a first name it's O-B-A-M-A.

Wake up America!

um uh um uh stutter, stutter.....

Steve   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

The mile-high Teflon Kid spouting self-evident truths strikes again!

Jake   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

The fact of the matter is that if you really looked at what Deval Patrick has done in MA with his whole preaching of change and look at the same thing Barack is pushing – you'd be in Clinton's corner quickly. Deval hasn't done half the changes he preached about. Barack is doing just the same thing. Throwing useless rhetoric out there and everyone's in some sort of dillusion with him. People really should look at MA and see just how much damage putting in an inexperienced candidate can do to our country!

jack   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Clinton has really dodged many questions. Barack will not be ready?? She sounded like "tricky Dick"

Marrkel   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I feel that the "zerox" comment was a weak attempt at a "one-liner" to dominate headlines.

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

she keeps trying to push it, but the guy already said that the person that wrote the 2 lines is on his campaign chair so how the hell is that bad?

shes just pissed because no one would want to write a song about any of her tired retoric

Casilda Barnes   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary please drop it. It is clear what happen and defensible. Obama's response makes sense. She is so desperate it shows!!!!!! When will she just go home

simplegestures   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

a poor question, trying to start a fight between the new kid and the bully on the playground

gregg   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Does he not get tired of his own words? He just rambles on and on.
Why does he always have to have the last word on everything?

Felicia M   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Barack is a brilliant orator. She can't touch him on this. She should move on. I loved that he pointed out his winning streaks, Texas endorsements, and his millions of supporters not being "delusional."

mndharmas   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

The best political team is backing Clinton

Jonathan Wright   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Obama's best quip here would have been. "Hillary that sure is a cute little attack line ("change you can xerox"). I'm guessing one of your advisors spent a lot of time writing coming up with that "change" one-liner for you. Meanwhile, my advisors & I have been working for change for the American people.... " It was nice to see that not only did the audience not applaud the lame one-liner but there even seemed to be some boos.

Louis Johnson, Lake Spivey GA   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

George in Georgia: I am hearing you. That was one that got by the cabbage heads.

Sabrina LasVegas, NV   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary is as fake as Mccain's wife's smile after a botox injection. The comment was a dud. Obama looks like the better leader by far.

Kell   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary is being absolutely petty on her "plagarism" charge against Obama. She needs to drop the issue!!

Jim from Colorado   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

He took her attack and rose above it and made her look silly in the mean time...

Al   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Unfortuantely she did not realize the person he got the quote from is his advocate and is working with him. It is not Plagerism if you have the permission of the author to say it in the context that he did.

Kevin Lester   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

He said what he had to say. Hillary kept trying but "O" let it go...nice.

crews2me   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

George in Georgia you are right and I am very afraid of Hillary care. I don't want another government slush fund for them to raid and take us into another war. I want them to leave my check along as it is.

Patricia   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I disagree with Dr. ROy. If she were fighting back she wouldn't have dropped it like a hot rock when the audience "booed" her.

Rob   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary is clearly coming across to Americans as the most qualified, experienced candidate who's ready to take office & finally hear the voice of Americans to help make this country better!
HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT!!

..::Eddie::.. Atlanta, GA   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary won't be respected if she continues to debate on fluff and not substance. Her attacks this evening wreak of desperation. This race is mathematically out of her reach now. If she's interested in the good of the party, she'll conduct the remainder of her campaign in a respectable way. Stop trying to use the Republican Playbook Hillary.

James Thomason   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

There was a blog I believe on the internet that shows Senator Obama
not saluting the American Flag or saying the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag. Why? Is he a true American? Does he believe that Jesus arose from the dead? Does he believe in the true and living God? What is his real middle name?

jen   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I haven't heard Sen. Clinton avoid any questions. She has the best answers and knowledge. Obama is still in his dream world.

Jeannie   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

OBAMA KICKED HER BUTT WHEN SHE TRIED TO HIT HIM WITH THE PLAGIARISM THING!!!!!

OBAMA 08*

sarra   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

what did she have to do when she have asked from the moderator you guys don't be blind and don't blame hillary she is not the one who bring the issue but she gave him good punch

Eddie   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I have to say, she really is resonating with me. I have been checking out Barack's words a bit more since McCain's comment aoubt empty but eloquent promises of change.

His 4k to college students is great, but how does he pay for it??

I voted Barack in the CA primary, but now I am thinking I may have made a mistake.

shingai   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary its over..

PatelB   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Two points for Obama... We need to get out... This conflicit has been going to BC lets just lets live the way they want to... We can't change the wolrd to live like we do... Let them be... and they may just leave us alone.. Put the money we are spending on the war into schools road and ect. "give peace a chance" JL

rod   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Here is a comment you can xerox.

GO HILLARY!!!

Tammy   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Hillary didn't seem very Presidential accusing Barack of plagiarism, when every politician quotes others.

twainwalker   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Why didn't anyone ask questions about Obama's criticisms of Clinton so that she could weigh in on them? Why is this all about him? Gets the last word nearly every time.

USSailor   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

That comment tanked hard!

Darnell   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

I think it is ok to quote people when you credit the source. We should expect our leaders to know that. Not sayin he was totally wrong but it is not a issue that we should make a whole debate of.

Desigirl   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Obama's mistake was quickly dismissed by the media. They are so forgiving of him. He should have been more forthright about borrowing his friend's speech. My gut instinct is that he's a fake. Michelle...........you will need to wait to be proud of this country for a while.

Grace   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

She made the point – if your campaign is about words, they should be your own!!! So true

D   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

He appears more comfortable and Presidential. You can feel her trying so hard. And when she is uncomfortable she puts on the grin.

Pat   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Petty issues when this country has some real issues that need to be resolved. I expect more from Hillary.

Kimberly   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Hillary is making herself look soooo silly. The pettiness of Washington is evident in her discussion of "plagiarism". Give up while you can still save face. America is tired of the childishness and ready for real "CHANGE!"

Gigi Jones   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Silly is the word!! Sen. Clinton has copied things Obama, her opponent, has said. She needs to forget about it!!

lou   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

BO is laying the smack down on HC tonight
get ready red state american your worst fear is going to come true: UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE

sam   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

I agree with Andrew. The "plagiarism" issue was silly to bring up in the first place. Just another pointless Clinton position.

Louis Johnson, Lake Spivey GA   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Steve, I hear Howard Cosell in my head and he sounds like this: " Down goes Clinton, Down goes Clinton, Down goes Clinton"

Falaq   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

On the plagerism issue, it is a no isue, most of what they both say are words that someone else wrote.

Clinton does not write her own speeches, so whatr is her point?

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

After that comment, she was awarded with boos from the audience. That's not exactly something I would want to occur on national television if I'm trailing in the delegate count....

erika   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Nobody evens remembers any of Hillary's speeches. Maybe she should try using someone else's, as if she weren't already.

Marc   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

It made Hillary look bad...and sad.

ML   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

CNN is so biased against Hillary Clinton. Even Campbell Brown cuts off Hillary during the debates while she lets Obama go on and on. CNN should stop showing such bias against Senator Clinton.

cheryl   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

she saw her plagiarism issue wasn't working..did u see how quick she was to try & switch to healthcare when that wasn't even the topic....barack can most definitly hold his own

Liv   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Granted, it was a mistake to press the issue, but I do want a leader who can press that hard against our adversaries. "I tell you what!"

Also - she's coming off like a strong world leader and he's appearing to be a diplomat...

GI   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Bill, throwing punches or mudd only turns Voters off. Its tacky at best.
This type of tactic is what got Bush in Hot water with the rest of the world.

Marne D   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Xerox or a reasonable facsimile thereof.

If the words "There is not a liberal America and a conservative America - there is the United States of America." from recent Obama speeches and commercials sounds familiar, it's probably because that' a verbatim quote from the movie "Man of the Year".

Flick   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

KGS, agreed.

If this is all Hillary has against Obama, it's going to be a long night. Let's get over this already.

fair tax in la.   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

OBAMA DOES NOT KNOW WHAT THE PRESIDENT OF AMERICA CAN AND CANNOT DO!!
HE SCRAES THE HELL OUT OF ME!!
COME ON PEOPLE READ , LISTEN AND REACT !!!

gregg   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Doesn't it bother anyone that the words are not his words and he has no real plan? This could be the president, the vote is for his ideas and his words not someone else's

Pat   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I think Hillary should think twice before pushing for more debates.

rock usula   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I disagree – I think, as a President, you have to show an example. Not copying a call-to-arm speech from another governor who is more on style than on substance, that words matter. They do matter.

Jinxintx   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

As a college instructor, I would personally like to thank Senator Obama for encouraging the college students who are very invested in his rhetorical and inspirational talent to cheat. At universities, words and ideas are very important and the attribution of those words and ideas are equally important. Even when you have the permission to use someone's words or ideas, you are still ethically responsible for giving the originator credit.

My students need to realize that Obama's excuse will not make the cut.

Ryan   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Lol I loved how fast she dropped "plagiarism" yeah, anyone remember a kindergarden report incident?

The clintons...oi

Hal   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Obama:"We contributed 2.7 billion to latin america, Iran is the beneficiary of Iraq invasion, true. Military burden, homeless vetiran, post traumatic disorders, veterans having to drive miles to better hospital. Obama, spending 2.5 billion, McCain we should be in Iraq more than 100years"

Iowan for Obama   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

This is why Hillary Clinton will NEVER get anything accomplished.

She was booed by the audience as she showed her pettiness. Hillary just doesn't get it!

Obama models mature leadership abilities to be the next President/Commander-in-Chief of the United States of America!

Obama 08

Cee Dubya   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I agree, I think the High School discussions should end. However, Obama does not have distinct and direct approaches with detailed plans on anything. How can she debate when his most used "words" are "Change we can believe in?"

thinker   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Obama was the editor of the Harvard Law Review and a university professor, he knows what plagarism is and he knows that he is guilty of it. Heis being intellectually dishonest when he says that it does not matter because his friend gave him permission. The fact that the lines came from his friend is irrelevant, he presented them as his own without crediting his source. It is also irrelevant that the words were in the public domain, because again he did not credit his source. What kind of message is he sending to his supporters, many of them college students, if they did the same they would be kicked out of college.

Judi   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

I'm not even a Clinton supporter – but I feel compelled, after watching this debate, to mention my disgust at the commentators/question posers obvious bias. Their continual firing of heated questions at her is "FIRING ME UP". They have put her in the worst possible light – made her look as though she had to explain / defend past comments – and – most likely, lost this election for her

In other words, the commentators' unprofessional bias is extremely unfair and has manipulated this debate. Shame on them! Who chose these people anyway?????

PS. They didn't have the courage to bring up Michelle Obama's "not proud" comment though, did they?

R Lory   February 21st, 2008 9:29 pm ET

This is awfully "childish" for Sen. Clinton to keep bringing this subject up. If Sen. Clinton runs OUR country like her campaign, we are all in TROUBLE!!!

Richard Basham   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

She was taken by surprised with Obama's response and when she was to respond she tried to escape the plagiarism charge by diverting everyone to a health care topic.

Maggie   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I can't wait to see who wins Texas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Edwin Robinson   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Again, Senator Clinton displays the old "Schoolyard" candidate childish methods of throwing dirt instead of dealing with real issues. She agains dodges the questions and fail to answer direct questions with direct answer, giving the ole age policial rehortic (sp).

She continues to show me that she is petty in her responses to Sentor Obama and has shown her spots in her defeated and defensive posture.

Waiting in Ohio
Gobama!

Peter   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Totally on point Bill. This is non-issue which Senator Clinton has tried to exploit, fortunately without success. The original author of the lines has specifically authorized the use of his lines. This is what they call a licensed use of a sound sample in the entertainment biz. It's not only perfectly moral and legal, it's moral kind of an hommage to the orginal author – who in this case happens to be a supporter and friend of Senator Obama. Put differently: "hey, this is a great line, use it to your advantage".

CTvoter   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

So-called plagiarism pales in comparison to some of the things that could be brought up in regards to the Clintons - Travelgate, impeachment, etc.

Hannah in STL   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Hillary showed her ugly side… she lost ground with many civilized women voters, like me. Great reply Obama… that is pure “Washington silliness”!!!

Sharon   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Why can't Obama stay on point. He seems like he just bounces all over the place and never really answers the question asked.

crews2me   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Obama is truly showing that he can be commander and chief!!!

Ed   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

What good wil it really help to give $4000 to graduates for commiting to service after graduation?

Not all of the students that need help have majors that can be widely used in civil services.

I would like to hear how they would help all students. All graduates cant go into these public services some must enter the business world.

PATRICIA HUGHES   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I clearly hear what Hillary Clinton's policies are; I am often uncertain what Obama poses BECAUSE HE STUMBLES OVER HIS OWN WORDS!!!! WHY DO YOU, THE MEDIA, CONSTANTLY EXCUSE HIM FOR THIS???? WHY???? WHY DO YOU, THE MEDIA, CONSTANTLY SUGGEST THAT HILLARY IS TOO DIVISIVE A CANDIDATE???? BECAUSE OF YOUR CONSTANT COMMENTS ABOUT HILLARY CLINTON OVER A LONG, LONG PERIOD OF TIME, YOU, YOU, YOU HAVE CONDITIONED THE AMERICAN PUBLIC TO BELIEVE THAT ONLY A MALE IS ELECTABLE!!!!

Chris in Boston   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Whats with her giggling after half of Obama's answers?

Ronnie   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I think he did a wonderful job responding to this petty non-issue.

Rob   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Elrod ~ Hillary was just having her opportunity for a fair rebuttal. If you notice, both candidates do it frequently during the debate.

C M Nash   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Honestly, it's such an insignificant point in comparison to other issues which ought to be discussed. I haven't seen her give citation credit to Cesar Chavez when she utters 'Si, se puede'.

Ryan from New Mexico   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Hey come on CNN about this issue, I left a good decent comment earlier.

so if we are suppose to watchi this debate, and not have a right to respond in a good acountable way. then why even ask us to comment at all CNN, if your not going post good points?

Julie   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

If the only mud slinging Hillary can do is claim Obama plagarized a friend of his, then she's in real trouble.

Joshua   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Obama has shown great poise, consistently taking the high road. Presidential posture.

Patrick   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Sounded to me like she was booed for that one. Obama made the Clinton campaign look ridiculous with his answer. But that didn't stop her from trying to get that obviously pre-written line in.

Jeffery   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

She is grasping at straws.

Confused   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

That was so petty – it showed – big mistake Hillary.

mike   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

OK HOW DUMB CAN U BE THINKING IS plagiarism COME ON NOW YOU GUYS WENT TO SCHOOL WHEN YOU PLAGIRISE IT MEANS USING SOMEONES WORD WITH THEIR APPROVAL. IN HIS WORDS HE QUOTED SO ALL YOU GUYS THINKING IS plagiarism GO BACK TO SCHOOL YOU NEED SOME LESSONS! THE REAL PERSON plagiarism IS THE PERSON THAT KEEPS CHANGING THEIR CAMPAING THEME AND BASHING THAT CITY EVERY TIME SHE LOSES

Schroeder   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

She should push the plagiarism issue. As an academic, he should know better. Hillary's point is that he uses rhetoric to motivate, even though they aren't his words and fails to give credit where credit is due, which is pretty much what he's about. It's more about his campaign – it's about him. Interestingly much like his father's legacy of egotism which was his downfall. You can only gloss over so much – just like Obama's rendition of his father's importance in his book even though his father had serious character issues.

Connie   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

I made the call to my friends today that the campaign of Hillary Clinton would write a "where's the beef" line for her to try and get in.
And...aha..there it was, the Xerox line. How contrived!

Lost in Moderation in Vermont   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

Did you hear the boos on this one?

Barbara   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Silliness is an understatement. HRC needs to be our next HHS secretary, NOT our next president!

Brian   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Obama nailed her on this issue.

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I agree – Hillary needs to drop the plagiarism issue. We all repeat quotes from time to time. So what....Talk about a real issue.

Jefferson   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

When you say someone else's words in a speech, you have to at least mention who said it. Good Xerox comment.

Zain   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

When did it become presidential to act uneducated, and bad-foul mouthed? Clinton is the epitome of a sour, desperate looser.

Bruce   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I think her snipe and attitude on this is going to be the end of her campaign. She showed her true petty colors.

Frank   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Hillary's plagiarism charge backfired on her. Sorry, but on this one she came out as small and petty.

Maggie   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I think Obama is not going to let the Iraq troops stay there longer than Hillary would. She keeps saying that. Obama is really fighting hard right now

beth from NY   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

You are crazy if you think Hillary is failing....Obama doesn't sound to eloquent tonight..... Don't you agree????

Sunny   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Stupid comment by Hillary. So childish.

S

Vig   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

There it is again "advantage Obama" he always comes out smelling like a rose with your biased coverage. This issue is more one of a racial difference between Black and White cultures – why don't you give your coverage some depth and explore this issue – instead of making Obama so pure

John   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Isn't it strange the "candidate in the solutions business" never gives actual examples of any. She just keeps repeating "all my life", "all my life'.
I have not heard one good example of an accomplishment of this woman in the entire campaign. Can anyone help me on this? I'm serious...really.
Nothing Bill did, but real accomplishments you can attribute to her ideas and fortitude, without grabbing credit from others

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

This issue is so petty. Drop it allready. All the candidates do it. Even Hillary has used some of Obama's lines.

Mike Zamora   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Applause to Obama for not stooping to Hillary's comments. Many 'lift' ideas and words from others all the time to help get their point across; what's so wrong with it here? To call it 'xeroxing' is a cheap statement. In the end it's, as they've both agreed, all in actions. Cheers to the candidate who can get the job done.
Obama for President!

Brian   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Xerox comment was a little overboard. It didn't sit well with the crowd. Kudos to Obama for taking the high road. I especially liked the comment "Silly Season". She walked right in that

George   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I am so done with the Clintons

Mattheus Mei   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

The house fell on top of her after that one - stupid attempt at a barb, she can't win with the Golden Tongue son from Illinoise

Eric   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I agree she looks very petty. The Xerox comment seemed contrived too...she was just waiting to launch that one. I can just imagine her practicing in front of a mirror.

Chris in Boston   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I'm curious how she thought she could attack him on something he's been completely up front about from the very beginning.

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeak.

Bye Hillary!

brent   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I thought it was a great comment and she did not back away. He literally ripped off an entire speech. WOW

robo   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

What makes her more prepared to be commander and chief? Being Bill's wife? Tipper Gore has had the same experience. And her husband wasn't run out of town on a rail.

Jeri   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Does the plagiarism charge really draw anything but snickers? It was 15 seconds in an hour long speech! It was a series of phrases used WITH PERMISSION. She has used multiple lines from various speeches, including Mario Cuomo's speeches! NOT WITH PERMISSION! Get real Hillary, tell the truth for a change and stop twisting facts. Doesn't America deserve a president that is honest. Fact checking every statement against Obama has taught me a lot. Illinois legislature legitimately uses PRESENT votes to allow time for a bill to be supported and modified. All the legislators use it. She brags about leaving college and working for the Children's Defense Fund rather than a large law firm. Check it out, do a search. She worked there less then a year and THEN went to a prestigious law firm. The list could go on and on. I recommend fact checking who ever you intend to vote for. By far, Obama is the most honest.

Brooks   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

She has to stop being "silly" none of that stuff works and your right she looks petty

Juan   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Obama has been more positive than Hillary

lsd saint   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I think both candidates have done an incredible job this evening, laying out their platforms and we should be proud of their positions, regardless of whichever wins the nomination.

Both of these people are top notch and I hope we will get behind whoever wins to stop the war, stop the corruption and start doing good things for the UNITED States of America.

Pantsuit Lady   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

She is too stubborn for my taste. She would ignore our wishes just like Bush.

And Obama slammed her with the right hook with "Silly Season". I screamed laughing when he said that.

dee   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I loved the Xerox comment!!

david cercone,pompano beach,florida   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

If thats the best she can do...she needs to just admit its over

Rob   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Interesting how Obama calls plagiarism "silliness" when he's the one caught with his hand in the "cookie jar". Fact is, when you're running for president of the United States and speaking to the american public, your words should be your own! The trouble with Obama is that he has been very vague about details in how he will carry out policy or solutions. Hillary Clinton has continued to convey specifics about policy & solutions. This is what separates the boys from the women!

PatelB   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Fed lower interest rates but home loans and credit card rates are still high. If banks are forced by the government to lower loan and credit card rate. This would put more money in americans pockets and they would spend more which help kick start the economy. Home loan rates are back to 6.0 but banks can load money from the Gov for 3.0. Why can't candidates address is issue that is on most americans minds

Rory   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I can't stand either of them, but Hillary is right about Obama's xeroxing promises.

Jeff   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Clinton is slinging mud on this one.

matt   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

By "contrived", you mean "plagiarized"?

carlee   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

I believe that Bill used words from other people when he first became prez. Hillary needs to let it go because she has used his words CHANGE and HOPE when making speeches and I don't remember him or her giving credit. And if you weren't listening the person he used the quote from gave him permission so it was not plagiarism.

MB   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Old News!

S. Sarian   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

You should be ashamed of yourselves, you seem more interested in starting a FIGHT between the candidates than listening to what they think about issues. When they wanted to describe their differences in health care, WHICH I REALLY WANTED TO HEAR, you're busy trying to get to YOUR next question answered.

Stephen   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

This is a dead issue. Who believes that Senator Clinton writes all her own words and speaches?

sboyd   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

The moderation is unbelievable tonight – judging when to let the candidates talk, but moving on when the situation becomes repetitive. To be fair to Wolf, maybe it is just easier to not allow another female to dominate, whereas when you are a man not letting a woman talk, well that seemed to be just down right impolite (anyway I am sure that must have what made Wolf so ineffective as a moderator.)

Melissa Haussman   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Obama can hardly talk about the "silliness" of Washington since he's part of the very same Senate as Hillary. People need to realize this.

Whether the line about xeroxing was contrived or not, it hit home and that's the point...

Melissa Haussman

Heath   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

He would be kicked out of college... that is for sure. He doesn't have an original thought. Have you noticed that he repeats what she said!

Cheryl Rahm-McGrath   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Hiliary, forget the word plagiarism. You want to talk "P" words, how about perjury. That is one we haven't heard in a while. Also, when your oratorical skills are mastered as well as your opponent, then we can talk plagiarism. However, I won't hold my breath.

sean Detroit   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

the xerox comment was planned and pathetic

Shes sounding so petty. He's finally sounding forceful and presidential in a debate. Bye Hillary

angie   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

She looked plain STUPID AND DESPERATE! The American people are more smarter than that.

Robert in Albuquerque   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Why is it that if Hillary attacks it's shown as weak but if Obama does it's viewed as ok? Double standard and I'm sick of it.

Julie   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Clinton is looking desperate with this type of attack. She needs to get back to what is important to the
American people.

Maria   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Clinton is right. Mr. Xerox dismisses it as silliness, because what else is he going to do? He steals ideas, his wife is not proud to be an American....I think we have identified our first couple!

Roddie   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

She has become the epitome of her campaign...negativity and desperation...she has sure reflected her campaign 2nite

ei panadero   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

If universities have been monitoring students submitting term papers and reports with regards to plagiarism and not giving proper credits to authors, then why would the next US President be excluded?

Lazaro   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

She is just pushing anything now to try and get the upper hand, even if it means butting in on every question when told to stop talking.

GO HILLARY   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

it's not petty – it's a big deal.

either he has ideas or he doesn't.

we have a president already who doesn't think for himself and we dont need another one of those.

Paul C   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

She is right though that this is a campaign of your OWN words not someone elses.

Lisa   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

This was a low point for Clinton. She's resorting to petty attacks and the audience is clearly unimpressed.

Barbara   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Clinton is a catty b – - – -! Can't you just see her (hear her) talking sarcastically across a negotiating table with heads of state? What a scary thought! I quit watching the debate at 7:20 p.m., MST. It turned into a Clinton SPEECH! A time limit for comments should have been set! I guess desperate candidates just talk more and, it appears, CNN allowed her to talk more; and, of course, having no time limitation, Clinton talked and talked and talked and talked–ad nausem!

Sonia   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Did she think plagiarism when she titled her book," It takes a Village". NO! this is from an old African proverb. It doesn't take anything from her book. Just like Obama's words take nothing from his campaign.

B for Obama   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Her accusation holds no water – it's simply bickering.

dusty   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Did BO just say 'Tali bahn'? Where does he think Alkida in Afgahnistan came from? Pull the troops out of Iraq too soon and the 'Tali bahn' move back into Iraq. Keep troops there until Iraq stablizes and can secure itself, then we, the US, will have a forward operating base for the other unstable countries in the area that seem to be a thorn in our side.

you go girl

Dissapointed   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Whats up with the analyst...is he anti-clinton? I am actually not for any of these candidates but the headlines are just not cool. Obama is not perfect. To my understanding was the one that got heated about the plagiarism charge and Hillary obviously had to respond with the now famous "change you can xerox." Wait for that phrase to be front page news but very negatively. The more the media praises Obama the more I grow to dislike him...please STOP enuf

robo   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

She's too desperate. Swinging blindly and dishonestly. More of the same – "on day one."

Sheila Thomas   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

My feeling is that Senator Clinton is resorting to pettiness and mud-slinging in her effort to turn the tide that up to now has so clearly and strongly run against her.

ciarda   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Yeah you would think so wouldn't you- you and John King are so blatently biased toward Obama. Twice he's had second responses and went on and on, and you have not allowed Hillary even one short second response, and even cut off her short first response twice, and didn't allow her to respond to Obama's pot shots several times. You and your network are so clearly biased toward men over women- look at even your questioner panel 1 woman 2 men. John King should not even be there, his questions are pointless, petty and childish, with fawning comments on Obama, and nasty attacks on Hillary tied in them- totally unprofessional as a journalist asking questions at a debate.

E   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

She lost the debate by pressing it . . .the only boos of the night.

Texas Toast

Jeff from Phoenix   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

What do you "no experience" people think Obama's been doing for the last 20 years, twiddling his thumbs? Check out his background in Chicago. And lord forbid he plagarize... the constitution, MLK, FDR...

Erika   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Its a REAL problem that a campaign soley based on words that uplift has in fact LIFTED those very words. What else is there besides those words? Nothing.

Hillary '08

Alan   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

That charge is silly ... this isn't a couple of kids fighting in the school yard ... Every politician has speech writers and use others thoughts ... It is indeed the actions that count!

Nicole   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I would bet my life that Senator Clinton has used phrases that were coined by others in her speeches. Does that mean she's plagiarized? Her attacks don't help the Democratic party and make her look petty. She's grasping for straws.

Janet   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

She's right on this one. He's downplaying using someone else's speech, but I am not buying it. His reference to "silliness" in Washington fell flat. Silliness? Actually he seems flat, too. In any event, his integrity is lacking. You'd think he invented change the way he goes on. It's tiresome. And what's with his pronunciation of Taliban? So not ready to be commander in chief.....he looks like a deer in the headlights in this debate.

George Burnett   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

When Mr. King asked the question he said each of you have said things about the other then asked Senator Clinton about what she said about Senator Obama and allowed senator Obama to react. He did not ask Senator Obama about statements he made about Senator Clinton leaving the impression that the comments were one way only. they were not.
Secondly Cambell brown continues to cut off Senator Clinton and allows senator Obama to go on as long as he likes.

mike   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

you may call it a tired issue, but she sure is right.

borrowing words? come on. what kind of a president would that be.

SWITCH ON YOUR BRAIN OBAMA

Martha   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

"Change you can xerox" was a line Hillary will regret, in my opinion. Lame comeback. But I did feel she eloquently explained why actions, not just words, matter. And how when a campaign is about words, it should be Obama's own words, not someone else's.

darrell   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I dont care – is this character attrack going to keep food prices down NO!!!!! If we keep going through this – I guess we will start having congress hearing about this

rj   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

HIS SPEAKING IS STARTING TO SEEM "LIKE THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER"

AJ   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Okay..I just got out of the military ...someone needs to look up Obama's charge that military in Afganistan are being split up between there and Iraq ...wrong...I don't know of any units in which they split at the platton level. Plus, what they hell is he talking about with them scavenging for weapons. I got buds in Afganistan right now and I haven't heard...."jeesh we are running out of bullets and guns"..
Some reporter needs to nail him on this one. He is clearly just making this crap up as he goes along.

Somebody for the love of Pete look into this!

Matt Norris   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Im curious as to why all these questions are being asked to Clinton about Obama. I have not heard one question specifically to Obama about her. It's as if someone has decided she is the judge and the jury is out on him so she is some deciding factor. I think he is doing very well considering all that is coming at him from her and the facilitators.

This is a very biased debate. Is she a facilitator too?

Charles   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

GO FOR THE GUT GIRL! BALLS TO THE WALL TEXAS STYLE!

Maggie   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Hillary sure knows her stuff here.Obama is waiting to break in to her argument.

James   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

This is boiling down to a draw... and that favors Obama. Hillary knows that to have a place at any future table, and avoid the legacy that she hurt the party, she has to keep it relatively civil. Basically, she's stuck!

margie   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

THE XEROX COMMENT WAS GREAT. She backed off at the right time; she made her point well.

John - Spokane, WA   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

She hit him right square in the Jaw with that one. He had to take a standing eight count. All she said was " I think you should use your own words" Is that asking too much !!

The kicker is, most of the "Borrowed" speech from Deval were words that Deval took from MLK & JFK !

Sergene Kimbrough   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I to think that was silliness........ If that is all she has she is in big trouble. I really expected more from Clinton

Toby Younis   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I wonder if "Change you can Xerox" will carry the same weight that "Where's the Beef?" I expect we'll see that again.

janice alexander   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

the moderator needs to have better control of the debate. Hillary is being allowed to take too much answering questions.

DemFan   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

That one went over as well as a Fart in Church....

Christopher Scorzo   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Both candidates are sharp minded and competent strategists with understanding the issues our country faces. However, in the end when its time for office...our country will need a President that has been near the issues at hand, understands the "politics" at the Hill and abroad and has experience dealing with policy decision makers. It is here that while both candidates are quality individuals Hillary clearly has the experience and "close encounters" with others to move the issues through the Capitol. I think the learning curve that Obama will need should not be performed in the White House. Let's put Hillary's experience to work.

Christian   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Hillary looked silly with that comment.

paul   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

She just doesn't understand it! Whether it is a change in how we conduct foreign policy or how we develop public policy in public she just doesn't get it!

NJ   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I agree its not plagiarism but her point was valid.. Barack is admired for "his" words, not someone elses. Moreover it wasn't so much that he played the same speech, it was the manner in which he delivered it which was identical to the otherwise known empty suit , Patrick Deval.

Nicole Roberson   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Clinton made herself found like a 5 year old. My applause to Obama for not fighting with her...it would have been so easy.

Thierno Diallo   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Obama will be good as commander in chief and Clinton as his vice president. I think them two will form a very good team.

Doc Wood   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

The xerox comment is unfortunate and not helpful. It was an attempt at a an applause line that fell flat. If we are to win in November, this is not the way to do it. Sorry that she said it, and watch how often it is played on the news tommorrow.

Shaen   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I am disheartened about the notion that "if a friend says I can use their words" it’s ok to portray them as my own, and then the notion of this issue is simply “silly”. I am sorry but I fail to see where the issue is one of permission, as this blog seems to reflect; the issue is one of integrity… Sadly integrity is now “silly”.

Gennifer   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

I love that she got booed. I'm voting for Obama because of the silliness of Hillary...he did so well by sticking to the issues

Katherine J.   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

How can a statement about a campaign that has used another's EXACT words be contrived? Obama's campaign is based completely on his "WORDS" that he will with little experience bring about change. Change for the sake of change is foolish indeed.

qohelet   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Funny how she quickly changed the plagiarism charge to health care, she was ready for that. Love how Obama took the high road and let her slide.

Kyle Moffatt   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

this is ridiculous.

Obama PERFECTLY justified his use of Gov. Patrick's quotation literally 2 SECONDS prior to Hillary saying "I think your words should be your own"

It's almost as if she wasnt even listening....

Obama hit the nail on the head, Clinton stooped into the "silliness" that politics tends to drifts towards, and clearly shows the desperation of her campaign, buy using cheap tactics to try and sway the public.

its pathetic.

and by the way, Obama's "plagiarism" was of quotes by MLK, and JFK, and Thomas Jefferson, so what is Clinton saying? "The words you used in between those historical quotes were similar to those of Gov. Patrick" ???

Even if a quotation seems similar to one of a fellow politician, it doesnt mean that it is no longer good. A concept does not have to be original in order to be valuable.

thats all i got.

DMAC   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

How many lines has she taken from Obama on her stump speeches???

Zaragoza   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Wake up, Bill. You can't dismiss the plagiarism charge. Sure Deval Patrick is a part of Obama's campaign. But these were not new words that Deval gave Obama for his speech. These were lifted words that were part of a speech Deval gave several years ago. Completely different. The media is asleep at the wheel on this one.

Yes, it is "change you can Xerox."

Dean   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

This is a silly issue anyway. Clinton has NO idea what plagiarism is. On top of that she somehow linked this issue with his speaches to his other ideas. She is constantly saying he has no ideas. I only hear ideas from him. I only hear complaints from her.

Shirley   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Words, words, words ~ ~ all Obama does is ramble on ~ ~ uses too many words and it does get very boring ~ ~

Malcolm   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton is obviously a bit desperate. She would
have done herself a favor by omitting this ploy. It
plays badly to independents, and that is exactly the
group that she needs to influence. Neither debater
will change the minds of those already decided.

SandyG   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Xerox??? That was negative and will go against her.
The negative campaign will not help

Hadley   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Awesome–go Hillary!

I like that she'll say it to his face. He's a popular, yet unoriginal motivational speaker.

Dana   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Who cares. The point is that Obama is stealing lines and stealing plans. He can't make any good judgment calls.

marie latortue   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Plagiarism!!!!!! I'm not thinking about plagiarism when I can't afford my mortgage rate that will increase every six months. Leave the PMS where it belongs because that topic will not and cannot help the American people.
"United we stand, United we fall". How's that for plagiarism?

omar   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

I'm glad I'm not the only one who noticed that John is asking open-ended questions. At the end of each all Mrs. Clinton has to do is put a period.

Canuck   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

It is not silliness. Obama praises himself for giving good speeches but what makes his speeches so good are his quotes from other great speakers. Anyone can make a collage of quotes and call it their own. Hillary Clinton showed this in the debate when she showed how she too can easily quote JFK.

Stacy   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Contrive is right! How low can you go, Sen. Clinton? Please stick to the issues this upcoming week. Please do. Also, bring your boxing gloves, you will need them.

Sonia   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

It is absolutely silly to suggest that because he used a line from one of his supporters that he's plagiarizing. Lifting a line, if you will, from a great speech or speaker is done on a daily basis. She suggests that one should only stick to their own words. Did she consider that when she titled her book," It takes a Village". NO! this is from an old African proverb. It doesn't take anything from her book. Just like Obama's words take nothing from his campaign.

msgee   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary as Commander in Chief? Look at her campaign strategy - taking the oppositon for granted; underestimating public sentiment; NO plan after Super Tuesday; Losing Gimmee States; Blown through $100 MILLION with these results...She couldn't run a campaign for goodness sake? Diplomacy - Bill and Hill going into South Carolina...Gimme a BREAK.

Torie Hines   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Senator Clinton is representing herself in a very arrogant and combative manner; something we do not need in another leader...she has convinced me to vote Obama.

loco_moco   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Barack's strategy is to take the high road. Otherwise, he might rebut by something like asking HIllary who really wrote "It Takes A Village".

Marineone   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Quote of the evening "Change you can Xerox"

BillH   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

After reading Bill Schneider's comments, it's not difficult figuring out who he supports! Why doesn't CNN just openly declare for Obama and quit trying to cleverly obfuscate the issue.

I am a fervent support of the press, but he press is having far too much influence - some of it subtle and some not so subtle - on the races.

Tonight, for the first time ever, I shut off The Situation Room and instead listened to music. The scripts are becoming as predictable as some of the commercials and that's not what CNN has been about in the past.

rj   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

HILLARY WON ME BACK TONITE.

HE IS VERY INEXPERIENCED.

David W. Cooper   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

It was not Clinton that said "Words matter" ... and when the words are not yours they should matter more....

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Everytime Clinton makes a negative or snide remark about Obama, you can feel the crowd getting behind Obama... She was doing really well in the debate until she brought up the plagiarism charge. I think she should stick to the policy issues and how she plans to implement them while in congress.

WillyJ   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Solid takes on the debate so far tonight Bill. . . I think Obama really scored some points on this issue and Clinton lost some of the crowd with her response.

If Obama just need to hold serve in this debate, he is doing that and more. .

Tanya - Austin   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

He really stays above the fray – makes her look like a petty person grasping at straws.

He is at least as ready to govern as her husband was when he came to office – fresh out of the backwaters of Little Rock. Pkus he shows focus and he is not jaded – like her.

rudy   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Clinton always divides and makes ridiculous and meaningless attacks, she has no vision, no new ideas, and cannot bring people or the world together. Shes old hat. Time for some one new and forward looking. GO OBAMA

Obama4president   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

"Change you can xerox." Another one of the ridiculous desperate attacks Sen. Clinton has been using of late to try and save her campaign.

Barbara   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Sticking to the issues is a great strategy.....don't be distracted by the petty stuff!

Mark   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Hillary's negative attack ads are not only unflattering, but very un-presidential. Drop out now Hillary.

Maggie   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama is really fighting in this area. He is very strongin this area.

Edryn   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

This was another Clinton attempt! She is grasping at straws. She obviously is on the defensive. She was the first to throw nasty jabs and she even went back to the health care question because Campbell stopped her. She was rude to the panel and to Sen. Obama. She wants to hear herself talk and that's it! She does not care about the American people; she want's to be in the history books!

Mike M   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

What Clinton needs to say specifically is that you can eloquently parrot the words of change, and to say nice things that people want to hear...but while being an engaging guy may win him the election how far do you think that approach will go in Washington? It will still be tooth and nail. Obama talks as if he has some magic wand to change politics. Don't think so. This IS naive.

Josh   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

That weak attack on Obama is why she is losing. Too late in the game for that negative stuff. It's over Hillary. The best thing to do would be to bow out after March 4th. She is going to be pasted in Texas and Ohio. Going further makes her all the more devisive and will frankly ruin her political future.

By the way, who is running her campaign? Brownie?

Carrie Collins   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Bill Scheider, what do you think about Obama's stammering about foreign policy and going out in left field. Seems he can only talk about making the military stronger and that he opposed the war.

Jack   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama needs to make his campaign more than just "words" and good speeches b/c his borrowing Deval Patrick's line, even if it was with his consent, shows that Obama's strength is really not that strong... and borrowing ideas, plans, and action cannot really bring *change*, the main theme of Obama's campaign.

Celie   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Campbell Brown is showing favoritism to Barack Obama–she has cut off Hillary Clinton 3 times and lets Obama go on...

Willie   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Contrived? I think that she just let him have it and thats it.

Lloyd G. Phipps Georgia   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Great come back by Obama on the plagiarism

George from Minneapolis   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama has gotten the biggest applause of the night so far. He slammed her on her solutions argument. And, he got her good when he said all the major newspapers in tx has endorsed him.

also, he got her good on the plagarism argument. so far its clear the people like him better.

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Is there ever not a "silly season" in politics?

Aneta   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

No, it is more than silliness. he talks like a preacher, and us following him like lambs, is a dangerous road to be on.

SetItStraight   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

anyone who thinks that this election will end "ugly politics" is a no talent clown with their head in the air and thus believes all that Obama tries to sell. Go back to Lincoln's time, talk about Ugly politics, I was amazed at what I saw in Springfield, this is all tame in comparison.

All this HOPE HOPE HOPE CHANGE CHANGE CHANGE is going to be eaten up by the Republicans who will make your grandmother look like an axe murderer before they are done, that is how they win. The other comment board said something about the Clinton's allowing the Republicans in office – this is the type of ill informed person who is pulling the lever for Obama. Poor Al Gore tried to hide Bill Clinton – Florida was not his loss to the White House – Arkansas was, Tennessee was – had he let Bill help he would have won and we would not be in this nasty war.

Kristopher Rowe   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

there we go with the dumb argument again.... way to blow it Sen Clinton....again.

Mark P   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

I thought Clinton was doing fine until the xerox cheap shot. After that she started to lose me.

Joey   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama speaks better, HRH has more substance...she is not shrill, she is strong...the shrill card is a gender biased card!

Debbie   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Bill's commentary makes him sound like an Obamnite. Need someone who will be biased. GO HILLARY. People just do not want a woman president. Why can't we be like other countries and elect a woman. These women have been successful. Think about it!!!!!!!!!

Quentin   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

That was such a weak comment, I mean I have to salute her for having the gahl, to go forward with that argument, even as the audience laughed at the notion that it was a major issue. I can smell the desperation in the arena with comments like that.

HK   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Garnishing wages to force one to get the health insurance? That is unAmerican

Marsha Washington   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama took the high road on this , and it was obvious the crowd didn't appreciate HRC's below the belt, childish accusation.

joe Toall   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Where are the women of this country. Try to step up for one of your gender.

jacqueline   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Clinton comes out as a very impotent, angry and desperate candidate…not the president America needs at the moment…again the "I"-effect!!!

francine   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

with all of the big issues to be discussed found her comment to be trite. move on.

deb   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

HERE WE GO AGAIN . NOW ITS SILLINESS IN WASHINGTON INSTEAD OF FUZZY MATH?????????????????????//

J-NY   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Nice response put it in perspective really quick.

Toby Younis   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

...I mean, other than George Washington and Dwight Eisenhower, which other President has been immediately qualified for the position of Commander in Chief?

Johnny, Texas   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

How much more "Xeroxed" can you get when you choice is Hillary, the wife of Slick Willie Clinton!!! Will she have a female intern or male intern perform oral sex on her int he oval office? Will she get Slick Willie's black book?

Rick Buell   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

For Obam to not lower himself to her level having the integrity she clearly lacks to reduce himself to her level by engaging in siilly and oh so tiring petty politics was truly Presidential.

Pat Chicago   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

She played right into his hands. He nailed her.

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Senator Clinton is hanging by a thread.

The "Xerox" comment about Obama's speeches was not only contrived but booed by the audience.

She may know policy but she has no understanding of the power and the art of language.

Margaret   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Full agreement – she has to give up the plagiarism charge...

blorejay   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

The fact that she is going that route shows her desperation to bring obama down to her level of politics. I think obama did well to take the high road.

Catherine Hays   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

She is really looking for ANYTHING to call him on. He has already explained this!

Patti   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

It was amazing listening to him speak in front of almost 20,000 the other night...47 minutes ...I havenot seen people of all sorts this excited about a candidate since 1968

Chris from MIssouri   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary is like a caged animal that is fighting for her life. Problem is, that won't stick. It is the kind of politics that we hate since dealing with Rove for 8 years.

Susan in San Diego   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I really wish that they would focus some questions towards Obama instead of asking Hillary the questions first – giving her first access to deliver her poor style of rhetoric.

Karen Hudson   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Anybody else notice how often Hillary says "I"? Obama says, "we." To someone like me, raised in the Scandinavian upper midwest, where we value integrity over egotism, this is a MAJOR difference.

Shirley   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

How come nobody raises the issue of gun control / ban in light of the recent gun violences in NIU and other schools nationwide?

PDC   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I'm disappointed that Sen. Clinton chose to stoop to "mud slinging." I want both candidates to stick to the issues. I'm glad Sen. Obama did not dignify her pettiness with a response!

The Democratic Party must be united. These final weeks before our primary should not be used to provide John McCain's supporters with criticism of our nominee. We must put a Democrat in the White House!

kimari   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I agree with this. I think this is silliness and what about the her abuses of his words in her speeches like change and yes we can that she has used. I think the reason she is accusing him is simply because she is guilty herself.

Susa   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

This is so ridiculous, after all she lifted part of his slogan/words. Give me a break. If this is all she has.... Hillary GIVE UP!!!!!!

Angel   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

"Change you can Xerox", "Actions speak lauder than words" and "Obama surrogate who was unable to name a single Obama accomplishment"

Hillary Clinton strong lines defining effectively the Barack Obama candidacy.

WM   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Hillary looked petty trying to make a point about plagarism and Obama seized on it. She's consistently choosing the wrong times to attack.

Dale   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I am glad Obama is not entertaining the plaglarism issue, it is good he is concerned about the issues. Clinton is in trouble.

lynn   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

That's pretty desperate. Nobody owns words. We all have used or heard others words of inspiration. You can't knock inspiration

Ian   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Dirty. Respect lost for Hillary.

seawasauns   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

i'm over the whole plagarism thing...but it's nice to see that she's moved from nodding in agreement with everything he says – to actually debating!

Elliot McMillan   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Obama deflected her response before she even offered it, making her reponse seem desperate and premeditated. She didn't come off well at all.

Brian   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

It is the silliness to the extreme, I mean, do you know how many times I've had to sit and listen to her words? Obama was using Yes, We Can, and she's been running around saying that. Clinton's the mimick here, looking for the first chance to pounce on her foe, but he marches out unscathed and we see her for who she is. How long will we remember this time?

jacqueline   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Clinton comes out as a very imponent, angry and desperate candidate…not the presidente America needs at the moment…again the "I"-effect!!!

barbara   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I think this debate is a waste, because you have someone that has lots of money and someone who has experience, with this formula you know who is going to win " MONEY"
and the networks taht air distrubute their messages for money
over all same of the same

Maggie   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Clinton is really going for Obama. She plagerized the "change" slogan so why is she calling him on it and he is not fighting back?

pls   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

It was silly and petty.

Betsy in Minneapolis   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

Barack handled her pathetic throw so well. She might as well through in the towel. She's done. Put a fork in her.

SLH   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

While I am completely against plagiarism as an educator, what Obama has done I would not see fitting the bill of debating! We have real issues in America, REAL CONCERNS!!! Stick with the REAL issues!!!!

Andrew   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Hillary's criticisms are not sticking. Obama responds too well for them to have any affect.

scott   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

obama fans need to wake up! When the dust settles if he wins it will be a McCain presidency for the next four years. He doesn't have of yet. Back some one who is ready!!!!!!! Or give to the republicans

casey   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

it's not like he denied it

Eric   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Way to nail her on the speciousness of her claims, Obama! Hillary will be politically pilloried before this is over! Obama 08

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I wholeheartedly agree – Ms Clinton's behavior mimmicks that of one of my middle school students. There are REAL issues more worthy of the airtime. Americans don't care as much about this pettiness, but want to hear bout the solutions the candidates have for these problems. Let's move on past this type of "he pushed me down on the playground" mentality shall we?

Chris from MIssouri   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Hillary is like a caged animal that is fighting for her life. Problem is, that won't stick. It is the kind of politics that we hate since dealing with Rove for 8 years.

PatelB   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Let talk about NAFTA... Some Bill Clintion backed. Now job are going overseas more chinise good are come to the USA and less of our products from the USA are going to China. The one that make it are been tazxed higher. Let taxes over countries good like ours are taxes overseas

Andy   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Why is Obama so arrogant? I find it rude that he keeps using the word "silly". It's immature, inappropriate, and offensive.

Edd   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Totally agree! This is the reason why Obama is afraid of debating with HILLARY! I don't need rhetorics that are xeroxed from someone else. I need substance and HILLARY has them!

Frank   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

cnn debate is a joke . should Move it to mexico since it is half spanish. The modarator is a joke can not take charge of a debate. Hillary can not answer a strait question . This was a shame.

HK   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

15 years experience as a public servant? Does being a first spouse qualify one for being a president?

pampampam   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

she needs to MOVE-ON on the issue of Plagiarism, which by the way, she clearly demonstrate through her message of change.

James Hatfield   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

What do you think your doing CNN, finally our presidential candidates are debating as opposed to giving small speeches. LET THEM DEBATE! yes there are a lot of issues to discuss, but both candidates have said they are almost identical on the issues, the only way we will be able to tell where they actually stand is if they can really go back and forth on certain topics, so that we can see their differences.

AD   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Hillary does not realize how sleazy she looks when she attacks him.

Alice   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I'm proud that he doesn't stoop tp her level...there are examples of her stealing lines too, but he didn't throw mud at her as she tried to do to him

PATRICIA HUGHES   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Well, Bill, that's just typical of you and the rest of the media to pave the way for another shmoozing male candidate and to constantly pick apart and disparage the female candidate!

Yay for Hillary for fighting hard the way she does; for being clear about her programs and for FORCING OBAMA TO GET ON WITH WHATEVER IT IS HE IS PLANNING TO DO DAY 1, WHICH I'M STILL UNCERTAIN ABOUT!!!!!

Arnie   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

hillary is running all over the moderators, answering the last question not the current one... they need to get control over her!!!

Ian   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Experience?? Accomplishments??

Ask anyone who lives in Buffalo about her accomplishments these past eight years in building up the economy and preventing job/population loss...

She's been "Xeroxing" the same words the political leaders in Western New York have been spouting for the last 50 years

Hillary used New York for the presidency...She's using the presidency as a power trip

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Senator Clinton is hanging by a thread.

The "Xerox" comment about Obama's speeches was not only contrived but booed by the audience.

She may not policy but she has no understanding of the power and the art of language.

Tomas   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Do you want a President who will cry when things go bad and she doesn't get her way??

She isn't ready to be Commander and Chief. Vice President yes..

Hillary for Vice President, Obama for President...

She needs to dig a whole for Obama, but she getting dirt thrown back on her..

She is playing dirty and he is Playing clean and fair..

Obama won't lie toget there, I think she will say anything to get there..

She sounds and speaks like she can change things over night.

If you believe that, I got a bridge for sale, REAL CHEAP..

David   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Hillary just used the brand name Xerox as a generic term. Does he understand that she just abused a company's trademark by using the word as a generic term? And she has the audacity to accuse Senator Obama of plagiarism?

Who do you think is winning Bill?

Michelle   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

That's because thats all she can do. She is losing momentum with the country and now she is playing dirty

Kevin T.   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

If she continues these low road attacks and it comes down between her and McCain. I'll be voting republican for the first time in my life.

Erica Gibson   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

We need to stick to the issues...

KGS   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I believe there are other issues far more important issues to tackle... that is just plain "high school drama"

jacqueline   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Clinton comes out as a very impotent, angry and desperate candidate...not the presidente America needs at the moment...again the "I"-effect!!!

Tom   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Is there anyone here that actually thinks that any single politician running in this election can be the saviour of our country? Any partisan candidate that makes it to this level is "integrated" into the political system already. Not much said is going to be original, all repeat rhetoric from past years, reworded to fit todays hot topics. You can't listen to what they say, you need to research how they voted throughout their political careers. All this stuff if just fluff to weed out those that can't carry themselves well out in front....it's politics, not reality.

Sir Tristan   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

The plagarism issue is getting old now. How did he plagarise if he received EXPLICIT consent?

Jared   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I'm glad she brought it up because it gave him a chance to respond and I believe he responded wonderfully. Her charge is just a low attempt to gain ground against his building strength against her.

A score against her.

joe Toall   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Of course, Mr Scnider. Anything she says you won't like.

The media should be more Objective. Please stop the campaing against Hillary. It is time to be fair to her too.

suz   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

bill schneider, even you are showing your bias. you, cafferty and everyone else at CNN have disappointed me greatly in your pro-obama comments, analysis and overal lack of scrutinizing the man obama. a man we have known nothing of a year ago. bill, you for a man of words, should choose them more carefully these days.

Jo Lena   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Is Barack ready to be President question...Hillary needs to get off of her "36 years" "15 years" stone age comments. She won't answer the questions. Just because she lived in the Whitehouse doesnt mean she is more prepared. Same old stuff – just a different day – she already said she won't meet with people unless they do things first...

jj   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Stop yelling Hillary

TonyC   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

It has become very clear to me that Campbell Brown and Jorge Ramos are clearly for Obama. I thought they were supposed to be neutral. It is clear that Cambell Brown tried cutting her off to rebut the Health Care comments by Obama. Finally after the break Clinton immediately responded. You go Girl!!! The media has clearly found theyre darling candidate and it certainly is not Hillary Clinton.

d riquelme   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Why is the moderator Campbell Brown interrupting Hillary? I count at least 3 times, yet she has allowed Obama to speak as long as he wants and waits till the applause dies down. She is not supposed to be so partisan as a moderator. I think Hillary is handling it with grace and also respecting Obama, while Obama is not so polite.

silverfoxuna   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

And, that goes to the heart of the dilemma for Senator Clinton. She fails to grasp that pushing inconsequential topics wastes time and it also shows that she fails to study what's happened since the allegation was first made. That clearly makes her look uninformed and tunnel visioned.

Phyll   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Why does Hillary just sit there with a smirk and stare at Barack? I used to like her but she looks just too smug. And now she is counting her 8 years as a spouse as experience?

Jim B.   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

15 years? what happened to 35 years. she's been a senator for how long? she obviously wasn't the real first lady. if doesn't know what is happening in her own house...

Karon Richard   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

What a waste of time and energy – her comment was childish and foolish , I was actually shocked at her attacked at such a "small" manner.

sparkle in texas   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

The thing about all this is, hillary is doing this to herself. she is walking through a door she has opened and is falling down the foxhole. no one and i mean no one is making her say silly "zerox" comments. she thinks she is being cool by using these lines that her staff has written thinking that it will come across as charming and funny.... hmm much like she accuses of barack of doing...

janice alexander   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

i think that Hillary is being allowed to take as much time as she wants to make her comment. the moderator has not been able to control the debate. I also beleive that Hillary is giving a lot of lip service.i

emmanuel   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama is at his best when he's defending himself. His resistance to attacking Hillary may be mistaken for weakness.

patrick carey   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

why is clinton asked the first question all the time obama is feeding off her king showing bias against clinton i see both as great leaders be fair to both

steve   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

she is hitting on all points NOW!!!!!!!!!!

Roger   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Point number one................

He is such a blabber mouth..............

His biggest legislative achievement that he points to........and it really is about the only one.............Ethics Reform...............he calls it the most comprehensive and yet Washington has not changed as a result..........that legislation was what a lot of people call ........ Camera Ready or PR Legislation..........its just more blabber

Miles   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

That line bombed! A line is never good if its followed by silence and then booing.

joe smith   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

That's all she's got? The presidency is up for grabs and she's throwing one-liners around about two boilerplate sentences? Has anyone let her know that she's losing?

Timothy Jessie   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I think Hillary is pretty pathetic. She's trying to make a mountain out of a mini-molehill. She did it twice – pushing a point that isn't worth pushing. That doesn't make her look good at all. Her mighty campaign has come down to this. Pathetic.

crews2me   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is having her campaign words thrown back at her and she is unwilling to confront him now after seeing that he does hit back and hit back well. I can see if she attacked him based on policy but she is attacking his career and character. I know she has been working for years in government but we aren't voting based on years in the office but on judgment and who has the skills for where the country is right now.

Toby Younis   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

None of which qualify her, or anyone else for that matter to be "Commander in Chief." No one, not even John McCain is qualified for that position. That's why we have a Commander of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Joint Chiefs, and, I suppose to a lesser extent, the Secretary of Defense.

ellen davison   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

How can Any politician claim originality in most of the speeches they make. Ar e not the employed "speech writers" responsible for politicians speech content? Hillary's attack on Barack was very mundane.

M Mulholland   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

she is trying to hard, bye bye Hillary.

paul in dallas   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

The crowd booed her. Good for them. Does she expect us to believe that she doesn't get any talking points from Slick Willie?

L dog   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Daval has come out and supported Baracks usage of his words. Hilary is desparate as they come. He is more than just words. He is a uniter of people and ideas

Tier French   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Yeah, it is silliness! She's still grasping for straws. Her ship is sinking & no one is throwing her a life preserver!!

Michael   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Like Senator Clinton writes all of her speeches...

Bill Allison   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I thought Obama handled it well, treating it somewhat like children squabbling on the playground.

Matt   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

A fine example of why her brand of politics is not only ineffective now, but also in November. Epic fail.

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I think you guys in the media need to stop trying to feed the fire of conflict and detracting from the issues. I'm watching the debate right now and the candidates are trying to talk about the actual issues and the moderators keep asking them about "silly politics" and trying to start arguments. Why can't we have a debate where the real issues are addressed and not this "he said – she said" nonsense that ALWAYS comes up; initiated by the people asking the questions.

mndharmas   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary doesn't do anything that "donors" from new york don't let her do

What does she mean use your words. She doesn't do anything without other's approval, Her foreign policy is dictated by her pakistan and arab and israeli donors

Avis C, Richton Park,IL   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I found it to be "silliness" also. She needs momentum and her desperation is showing. Let it go already! Talk about the issues that you say are important Hillary. As a woman this is what turned me off to you, stay on track!

sarafina49   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

The phrase of the night is "silly politics"! Hillary has been engaging in silly politics and got caught in her silliness tonight.

Byron, Woodstock, MD   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Finally! He deserves that for being such a PHONY!

Shannon, Charlottesville, Virginia   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

when will senator clinton learn she can attack bush, but she cannot attack senator obama?

Hunter   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Ok poeple. Frist of all im not going to vote for either Obama or Clinton. Just wanted to clear that up. Anyways, please give me one good reson why obama would plagiarize. Anyone?

Allison   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I agree she needs to stop the whinning....

Cee Dubya   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

How long have you been in the Obama camp Schneider?

Contrived maybe, but, memorable!

Yes, health care should be mandatory, just like social security and medicare. No one is going to voluntarily pay for healthcare as long as they can get it for free because the rest of us have to pay higher premiums and taxes.

Damian   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

She may have tried to drawl blood but was booed by the audience in the process. Seems clear to me what america makes

cs edwards   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Who cares!!! How does this solve the problems we the Americans have?

victor   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

She is right. At least use your own slogans. Originality is key. Some might even call it PRESIDENTIAL. Those Obama supporters are rude. Uncalled for booing from the crowd.

Linda   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Clinton with regard to health care seems to be coming from a pessimistic place rather than positive and allowing adults to be responsible for their choices. She reminds me of an old time negative manager,.

Tasha Burnett   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I do believe its silly politics, this is just a desperate attempt to stop his momentum! I'm really disappointed in her behavior

Zack   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I'm sorry, but that looked bad on Hillary. It smelled of desperation.

I'm not a religious person, but shouldn't he or she who is free of sin cast the first stone?

I'm sorry, but that just looked really bad on her.

gobama   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Way to go, Obama!!! Good answer for Clinton. That is the change we need in Washington.

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I wish they'd answer a direct question with a direct answer!

Hillary for Pres   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary is telling it like it is. Obama should stop trying to minimize it. I guess he needs to defend the only thing he has going for him, his speeches.

Justin   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

way to go Obama. Hillary get over the fact that you can't even steal a line as good as Obama, let alone lead the country the way he will! I'm sick of the "Slick Rick" politics....

Robert Scofield Columbus, Ohio   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Obama makes it very hard to see the differences, every time there is one he claims its "politics as usual" when sometimes they are good contrast!

karen   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Clinton is coming off a bit petty – not presidential. There is so much Obama COULD talk about if the mud slinging were to start. The Clinton have so much material – thank you Bill.

Isabella, California   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

That is a pretty lame comment by Hillary. Silly is right.

Mike   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Once again, Clinton goes negative... anyone surprised?

Louis Johnson, Lake Spivey GA   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

A punch that missed. Another energy waster. Hillary tees up again and whiffs !

Blake   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

And Hillary pulls the gender card! Poor taste.

Dan   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Hillary scares me....

J   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

is anyone going to ask mrs. clinton about her use of other people's speech lines?

John Bowen   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I think Obama is doing a good job by rising above this stuff. he's maing her look dumb.

Kristine   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I seriously doubt she wrote that line herself.

hsm   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Silly it is... move on...

Greg   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

She sounds very desperate here on her healthcare issue, she also sounds wrong....Obama always seams to rise above her attacks...

Patti   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I missed the very beginning...is there a reason that Hillary is always going first?

Sasha   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

It is a shame how media and especially CNN favors Obama. They are both great but Hillary is right about actions speaking louder then words. Didn't her husband deliver? She would too if allowed by media.

gregg   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

this debate is out of control...where are the controls? why is obama always allowed to get the last word?

Rachel Denver   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Yeah,
That plagialism charge won't put food on my table. In any case, it's gotten alittle too old. We need substance not child talk.

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

She is desperate and reaches for whatever she feels will work.

Arlene   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hilary's comment was unprofessional. She was booed forit and deserved it,

Brad   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

At this moment I am reminded why I was a Hillary supporter in the beginning, but a Obama supporter now. Obama's reactions, how he carries himself...he is more presidential. And as far as not being qualified, even Hillary said he would be qualified for president.

hutch   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

I totally agree, it's a silly argument and it looks petty. I would prefer Hillary to go down in flames, but for her own good she should show the differences that make her a better candidate instead of bickering and attacking.

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary is quite overt in courting the John Edwards endorsement.

Delaware   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

She never answers the question – just say yes or no that you think obama is ready or not ready -

Michelle   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Senator Clinton has been beating this topic TOO DEATH. It's time to let it go. It's petty and it doesn't look very good. Not worth continued discussions and it makes it look she is grasping for straws.

Jamaal   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

He is absolutely right. The fact of the matter is, she feels her smear campaign of his "hope" message will reveal false hope. However, it shows her desperation and that the will do anything to win. After all, the "stolent words" were ok'd by the person he "stole" them from–his national campaign chairman.

delbert   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

All Obama has to do is remain calm, confident, and he'll win the debate. He is a better communicator.

AJ   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

What debate is Bill watching?

elle   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Bill, please reviw the video!!!

Carrie Collins   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Shame on you, Bill Schneider. If you tell it, Obama is the one making the good points and Hillary is bombing.

Mary   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Like she writes all of her own speeches????? Yeah right!

Suzy   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Please allow equal time to both members!!! Does it have to be this obvious that CNN is pro Obama?

abby yeomans   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Why is it that Campbell Brown cuts off Senator Clinton and allows Obama to run on with his views? As Sen. Clinton stated Talk is cheap. She has a plan. Obama has words that seem to be all air with no substance. Pretty speeches do not move mountains, Actions do. Keep up the good work Sen. Clinton You are refreshing and honest in the Bush climate of destruction.

Murali Sampath   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Hillary plagiarised John McCain by saying Barack is an "eloquent speaker" – those words were uttered by John two days back.

R. Koehler   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Senator Clinton wins on healthcare.

atl78   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

And it didn't land...

George in Georgia   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Clinton draws comparisons between Social Security and Universial (Socialized) Healthcare.

If I'm not mistaken, the government as borrowed against the SS program to the point that there are conflicting reports of when it will run out??

Is anyone listening out there?

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

yes, the line is "silly"... and I don't think Hillary looked good delivering it...but, CNN will play it over and over and over tomorrow.

Ronnie Hill   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Obama is right. How can you plagarize something that someone has given you permission to use. Sounds like desperation....

Dwayne   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Are we watching the same debate? Schneider is take anything Hillary says and criticizes her. She is clearly showing a mastery of the issues, and Obama agrees and adds a few comments. Schneider and the rest of the media need to start taking Obama to task for his inexperience.

Justin   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Hillary can't even answer an honest question. The woman is absurd.

Jaye   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Obama needs to move on and stop impeding the progress of this country. It is Clinton's turn – grow up, Obama

Judi, Los Angeles   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Yes, I agree it was no doubt added during her preparation for the debate earlier today.

aw   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Not canned questions but real debate... finally.,.

Amy Fox   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Senator Clinton is desperate and grasping at straws. She should stick to the issues, but that seems very difficult for her.

snoop   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

pretty funny response from Obama. in my view, Hillary tried to go after him with "change we can xerox" didn't go over too well. the crowd sort of hissed.
Obama held himself well, as you would expect from any presidential candidate in this stage of the game.

Deb   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Bill Schneider – are you on the Obama team or are you blogging about this debate? Seems as if it is the former...

tracey   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

For Hillary. Why doesn't she disclose his voting record? Also, officials seeming to favor Obama.

Gregory Allen Butler   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Silliness indeed! Didn't Clinton hire a ghostwriter for her autobiography and didn't acknowledge it?

Gion-Gion   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

HILLARY IS A WITCH!!!

Hairston   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

taking edwards words and views...would that not be plagiarism senator clinton?

David Ostrowidzki   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Who cares. Let them debate. Your moderators suck and keep the same order in questioning. It was only just now that they are starting to debate. not run a set to make Obama look good as Campbell obvioulsy would like it.

Manuel TX   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Bill,

We already know that you hate Hillary so your calling it contrived is to be expected.

Obama's entire campaign is a repackage of Deval's 2004 campaign for MA governor.

Obama's campaign is CONTRIVED.

Melissa   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Obama is so right!
I can't believe Hillary's trying to drag this silliness on.

scuttlebutt   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

debate number 19...(sigh) I could all but recite both of their positions for them. Campaigns are all about talk, so really its a toss of the dice to vote for either of them.

jenny   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Bill, tell us what you really think. Specifically, expand on just how brilliant and effective Obama is being. I don't think we've gathered that much yet. Thanks for such objective commentary.

yours truly   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Let em DEBATE !!!! this is good.... stop cutting them off !!!

A   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

This is the LAST thing they should be talking about.... It's not as if Hillary is writing all of her material!?!?!

Obama08   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

If this is what Clinton's campaign is about, I want no part of it.
"...they should be your own words..." Hillary says. Tell that to your speech writer Clinton.

Let's get real here. The candidate we, as american people should vote for is the candidate that is working to better the well-being of myself and my family.

Right now, that crystal-clear choice is Obama.

Joyce   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

What is the reason one candidate can be "cute" and the other cannot?

Sen. Obama clearly used someone else's speech and did not give credit. May I do that with one of your speeches? Or your book? Of course not.

The opportunity to make a comment about an opponent with a clever label makes it rememberable. Do we not want to remember what is being said?

joeinaustin   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

And she got booed for it!

Jordan   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Totally low blow, and the audience knew it, and that's why she got booed. She is just grasping at straws to try to get an edge any way she can.

Pierre D. Boisrond   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Well, Senator Clinton has to do whatever she can to attack the credibility of Senator Obama. However, she should find much better facts than this. It is the same kind of Washington politics that we need to change by bringing some change in the White House. And Obama is capable of bringing that change.

Thanks,

Pierre

Kelly   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

The crowd was booing when she said it, too. It was dirty and uncalled-for.

sm   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Barrack is not that bright. What is the attraction???

abcl   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

which is true.....he talks about red states and blue states.....even robin whilliams speaked in the movie.....does'nt this mean he shld run for presidentship .....they both speak same words.....obama has been here fir 4 yrs....what has he done to bridge other than talking....

Sammy   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

I am disappointed that CNN chose to allow Campbell Brown on the stage at all. She very inappropriately and disrespectfully referred to "Senator Obama" and then to "Hillary" in the same sentence. She has interrupted Senator Clinton several times but not Senator Obama. Could she BE any more biased? Duct Tape comes to mind.

misstraceynolan   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

The Clinton camp should fire whoever it is that wrote "Change you can Xerox".

Susan Walker   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Anyone who calls using a "verbal bridge" in speech PLAGiarism doesn;t know what it actually is.

If I were Hilary I'd go slowly ion this issue. She had someone else write "takes a village"– and didn't even credit the actual author.

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Obama did win that argument on the plagarism issue. the issue is a non-issue.

Susie   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

What is Obama saying...He is so confusing to me

Kim   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

PLAGIARISM? How many times has she quoted him? How many times has changed her campaign slogans to include the word "change"?

She acts as if Obama broke into Gov. Patrick's house and stole his speech!

How many times does she have to keep beating that dead horse? Give it a rest Hillary!

Jeff   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Political suicide for Mrs. Clinton

pradel   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

clinton needs to stop making negative comment about obama. she is trying to make him look bad but it is backlashing on her. Thats why she is looseing.

Michael   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

HRC should get off the health care topic... she can't listen to the moderators....

Obama should let it drop and let them move on... he can get her on the commander in chief role... HRC wanted to be in Iraq, he never did.

dennis   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Go Hillary!!! Finally we see that she has the experience needed. I loved the Xerox moment. D

Ninos   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Again, Obama isn't saying HOW he's going to get things done. Empty fluff, or, as he say, what we NEED to hear.

babs in bham   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Hillary just got spanked!
She should never have gone there–It makes her look petty, and she can't afford it right now.

Lee   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Hhahaha, she kills me with this plaigarism talk. She is all talk with this health insurance thing. Why didnt her husband do something to make it better during his regime. Bush did not completely destroy the health benefit industry. Its a disease that has been eating the core for a long time.

Tish Wms, TX   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Hillary is resorting to negative, childish rhetoric about "words". Who cares where they came from, if you believe in them and they express your sentiments exactly, why not use them…espcially when you have permission beforehand! Its not rocket science. Pick another fight Hillary, your lead is dead…

Brad   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

She must feel like she is really losing badly to bring up something like this that was stupidly brought up then smartly and correctly disputed. Wow Hillary....

Kim in Columbus   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

He's drawing a lot of laughs because he's just plain ridiculous. And childish.

Dude   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Hillary should hang it up. She is sounding desperate and full well knows the delagate counts and money issues. Time for the dems to unite behind Barack. clintons message has fallen on deaf ears.

Blake   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Finally they are turning it into a debate over the healthcare issue. I have experienced socialized healthcare and it is atrocious.

georgia mama for obama   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

It is silly! Nothingness! Is that a word? Anyway...she just needs to find something negative to talk about and that's it!

Lisa in Houston, Tx   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

You go Hill. The media is gonna chew you up for it, but the people of America really need to know the truth about Obama. Point out his empty and now proven plagiarized minister rhetoric.

Owen   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Her "Xerox" comment really backfired...

Kelly   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Is it just me or did her Xerox line come back to bite her. Lots of booing from the crowd like they didn't want to hear that kind of political crap?

Obama supporter   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

That is a silly call. She needs to let that go if not it will damage her more. She just got a boo from the crowd with regards to speeches. She should just debate and forget the negative attack.

Elliott R   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

For Clinton to focus on the plagiarism charge, again, is to play right into Obama's criticism of the silliness of Washington. Obama is transcending the bickering that Clinton continues to engage in. That, ultimately, may be her campaign's downfall.

Isaac   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

This is ridiculous. It was two lines out of the hundreds of thousands he has spoken. They were suggeted by the "Victim" of the "plagiarism. Let it go. She obviously has nothing else to say.

Julie   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I think Clinton is winning the debate, but with that line you could almost hear her speechwriter's pen scratching in the background.

Michael-WI   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Very weak on her part and just solidified his argument for change in Washington.

Evelyn New Jersey   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I find nothing silly about Washington, it is the most serious place in our nation. Oh that's right his wife has just recently became proud of America.

Ross F   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Has anyone mentioned that Senator Clinton's "I see An America..." is "plagiarized" from a Jimmy Carter speech?????

Nora   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Well we knew she would draw first blood. I think the issue used to do it was as Obama said the silliness of Washington. If that is the best she can do, I feel sorry for her. If she was sitting with John McCain she would be in heaven she could really cut loose. I wish she would understand this makes her look so awful, I was undecided for a long time but I think now, I have made my choice and it is not Hillary Clinton.

aleman1219   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

i agree on the plagiarizing. if you make cheesey speeches about hope and the illusion of the american dream — then at least say it in your own words, or didn't they teach you anything at harvard ? did you lift off other peoples' words there, too ? hope not, i was gonna vote 4 u, obama !

Jonathan in Chicago   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

More pettiness from Clinton. And she got boos while Obama got cheers and foot stomping.

Eugene Tam   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Obama copied copy a whole section of speech and blame on Clinton on her doing the same copy (only on a few words).
The media is totally biased in this race.

Grace   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Hillary back up!!!! you came acoss as angry very defensive. Im sorry Borack sounded ..Calm, colective and very presidential. congratulations to Borack for keeping the cool as alway.

lou   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

a mother grabbed my arm and said, "silly, all this universal xerox stuff"

Kevin Zelko   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Obama handled this perfectly. Calling that issue silly and putting it where it needs be. We need to focus on change and building the country up. Not dealing with silly issues. Obama focussed on the right way of addressing it and then bringing it to the issues.

Obama is winning part 2!

Jessica Rigney   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Senator Clinton's response of the "change you can xerox" came across as simply playing into the silliness of Washington. There was booing in the crowd for her comment and rightly so. She would have helped herself more by simply letting it go. And yes, someone in her campaign certainly came up with that "catch phrase" for her and probably told her to use it as soon as there was an opening to do so. I was hoping to hear more substance from her than this.

Karen Hudson   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Hillary has to be heavily scripted and managed because she lacks necessary political instincts. Obama, an honorable man, is adept politically. It is possible to be both honorable and adept. Hillary vastly overestimates herself. Her "35 years of experience" would not be appropriate on any resume.

sboyd   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Now we have a debate – let them debate the health care issue

Terri Gomez   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Bill, she's kicking his butt on things we care about. And yeah a candidate for President shouldnt lift ANYTHING from another performed speech and present it as his own...

but all these kids buy their term papers, and some of us learned to write our own.

Amia Tanny   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Now Mr. Obama has a real nick name, Mr. Xerox, how can Mr. Xerox lead a country of this mangnitude.

Onica   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

That was a very low blow Hillary.

CB   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

He is right, it is silly. Can both of them answer the questions at hand, please!

Laila   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Obama is clearly the mature one!

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Its too little too late. Clinton is cooked. She will not be the next President. By the way, do you really want Bill Clinton wandering around the White House with nothing to do??

Claire   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Contrived or not. Well done Hills. She is brilliant. Obama will stir the people to vote, but then they must get real and vote for the real candidate. Clinton 08, Obama '12

Dee Nashville, TN.   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Tacky comment, Hillary! This issue has NO MORE smoke.... let it go, Hill!

Edie Harrison   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I meant OUR country!!!!!

Gordon Neff   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

If Obama can't use his own words to express himself, but have use the words of another, who words will he use to make his Presidential decisions?

D. Baxter   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Please, no more of the "negative Clintons"!!

eric   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

She shouldn't have used the xerox line; clearly her people fed her
that line. But the follow up statements on the realities of governing were overdue.

YES!   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

YES! Clinton knows healthcare! To achieve universal healthcare EVERYONE needs to have healthcare. Clinton ALREADY knows what works, Obama! Obama we WILL need to require everyone to have healthcare or let them abuse the system.

Kelly Anne   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Yeah, I agree. Contrived. Hillary's getting testy.

Obama looks more presidential. Especially as Hillary gets nasty and negative.

No wonder she got booed!

Susan   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I think Obamba started out looking very nervous. Now, both canidates are doing very well! They are the same and they are different.

alison   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

sen clinton is self destructing
and it is sad to watch

Yvonne   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

This has nothing to do with who is the best presidential candidate. Obama offered a good explanation. Enough already! Weak attempt by Sen. Clinton to attack.

etel   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

She sounded so mean and so 'little' by bringing up the plagiarism charge! What a stupid comment

Charity   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

The media has spent more time on this silly plagiarism question than they ever did before the war in 2003. This is stupid. Let's talk about REAL THINGS.

lloyd williams   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I guess it matters what your definition of is, is????

Cindy D   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

if he used someone's words he should have at least "credited" the author of the words. He didn't until he got caught. Not good. He may have been given the speech to use but he should used the authors name.

Karen   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

He is a walking xerox machine. Go after his unoriginal speechifying. He's dull as dishwater and he is so mockworthy. He copies the speeches of others and the policies of others.

HE CAN NEVER SHUT UP!!!!!!! Wah! Wah! Listen to me me me worship me.... I'm talking let me finish,, uh uh let me finish......

Casey-Jack   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Seriously it's time to move on to the next topic!

Reese   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

How can Hillary talk about Obama using someone else's speech? Look at all the facts. She has used some of Obama's speeches to gain points. The speech she is questioning was not of his friend /supporter but more so from different famous people throughout history. Obama is right that focus on the issues instead of the same tired ol grade school name calling and smear campaign. If you cant take the heat then get out of the kitchen. She needs to up her game. But regardless of who is nominated. I still think overall they both (Democratic Party) needs to take back the country from Republicans.

Byron   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Bill , your bias is showing. Zip up and put Obama back where he belongs, that's right next Clinton not out way in front where you want him to be precived

loribee   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

What about her take on Barack's Yes we can....she is using Yes we will....come on....move on....when you are behind you will grasp at anything to try to hold on!! Move on Hillary!! OBAMA '08!!!

Sam   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I think obama deflected hillary's attack perfectly with the "silly season" line IT WAS BRILLIANT!

Hunter   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Why is she so petty.

jim vallone   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Clinton is coming off as trite, shrill and hollowly vindictive.......traits she has been trying to shake the entire campaign without success. Her performance here is a microcosm of why she has been beaten like a rented mule in all of the past several primaries.

barb   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Bill you are obviously voting for Obama....why do they keep asking Hilary the questions first and letting Obama wrap up every question.

Senator Clinton is right...Senator Clinton is right....Senator Clinton has all the answers and I give great speeches.

Michael R. Hastings   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I am quite surprised to continue to hear Sen. Clinton continue to tear down President George Bush and his administration. She needs to better understand, he is not running. What makes her different from Sen. Obama, not President Bush.
Thank you.

Tommi   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Look up the speech he copied..almost to the raising of voice, and hand motions. It was not just the words, but the fact that he uses Obama Drama. Look it up on U-tube.

Mel   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

CNN is blowing it they are allowing Obama to set the tone and time of tthe debate- time to turn it off. Moderators are not moderating him.

Ashish   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

"Change which you can Xerox" – Well said Hillary. Kepp on going..

matthew   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Look up the definition of Plagiarism.

That's what Obama did. Using someone else's words without crediting them and taking them as one's own.

dsgngrrl   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I thought when Hillary saw this was not working last week, she would drop it, but she did not. It made her look bad, especially when Gov. Deval Patrick works for & contributes to Obama's campaign.

change!   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Wow - Clinton supporters are really playing the politics as usual right here on this blog. Harsh.

WE REALLY DO NEED CHANGE.

Gad   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I agree that we need to get to the issues. Not silliness.

Andrew   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

That was a great line

NotanObamaFan   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Low blow...the crowd certainly didn't like it and neither did I. She is limiting herself by taking cheap shots. Some people like that, but how do you get to know the candidates and the difference. Obama didn't fall for it, he stuck to the question and the issues, and most importantly the difference he and her have on health care. Score one again for Obama.

Dedrick   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Oh how she is reaching.

Ninos   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I thought Obama said he was going to be brief...

K. Smit   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Yeah, but Clinton had a good return in saying - and I'm paraphrasing - if you want words to be important, they should be your own.

Hal   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

The plagiarism issue is a joke. Clinton is old politics, trying to bagger your opponent, Obama is not about that. This is about the democratic party bringing change. Only Unity and sitting down to discuss a common goal will bring change to this country.

K.P. Mills   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Hello Hilary!! I think that Jorge's question was about being the commander in chief, not health insurance?

Curtis S   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Obama got my vote on this one. He's right the plagiarism is about as silly as this McCain mess.

olakunle lawrence   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

It sure is a season of silly politics! and Hillary is very desperate. This is the height of hypocrisy, because Hillary indeed can not say that she has not used other people's words in this campaign. Especially that of Barack Obama.

hillary 08:   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

CHANGE WE CAN XXXXXXXXXXXXXXEEEEEROX!

NO ONE NEEDS IT!

Hong   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Didn't you hear: Obama just admit his medical health plan is 95% similar to Clinton's. Remember Clinton has been fighting for her plan long before Obama proposed his so called plan. Is he playing plagiarism?

Toby Younis   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

911pm EST Clinton just changed her tone and demeanor as she tried to get her Health Care licks in. Here's where she's going to take her "differentiation" stand.

He doesn't seem to be panicked by it.

He's not going to get down and dirty with her.

Lora Baker   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

I prefer to remember Clinton's response that if you base your campaign on words, they should at least be your own. I find that very significant, and I can't believe she got boo'ed.

Robert   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

She is desperate she is grasping at straws

peg   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Is Hillary saying she has never used a speech writer?

Brittany from Berkeley CA   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Oh Hillary, she is on a sinking ship and can't find her way back to the surface.

G Money   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Yeah, that was a bit silly. She is making matters worse for herself.

CK   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

she may have thrown a punch, but it definitely didn't land!!

P STANFIELD   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

ON THE IRAQ WAR WHEN WAS WAR VOTED ON? AND WHEN DID OBAMA GO TO WASHINGTON?

AR FALVO   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

It was so obvious by the response of the audience with the immediate loud boos that no one was buying her response his use of his national campaign co-chairman to use Duval's concept of great words.. I wish I could have seen the audience meter response ...it must have shot to rock botton

negative!   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

She is so quick to go negative, while he has yet to do so. Why wont she learn to rise above the low blows?

aspence1   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

And Obama simply ignored her "silliness' as well he should!

David McCann   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Finally – some significant discussion on healthcare

Kim in Columbus   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Bill all of your blog posts seem contrived to me.

thetruth   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

boos for hillary on this issue

Young Boy Sean   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

She should have taken the higher road on that, but she went in the gutter. That's where the Clintons' are in this election...THE Gutter!

M.K.Forster   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Why aren't the candidates kept on point, to wit: when Clinton was asked what she would do on her first day in office, evaded the question and she never, in any way, shape or form, answered the question. Why wasn't she asked to answer the question asked?

ME   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

You got it! Obama is xeroxing his entire campaign. What is behind the guy? She is ready to be Commander in Chief – what does he got?
She's got first blood. Wait for more......GO HILLARY!!!!

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Ooh she is trying to make up somehting new..huh.

James   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Obama easily defused Clinton's claims of plagiarism and used the claims as an example of the political silliness that voters aren't interested in.

While that was certainly a catchy line, it seemed canned, and came at an inopportune time, given that she raised it right after Obama's comments registered with the audience.

kenneth blanchard   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Please ask Obama what his stance on reparations for African Americans are and how it fits in with his plan for the national economy.

Dave   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

She just lost any hope she had.

George in Georgia   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Again with the healthcare.

Time after time, government has proved that it can not operate effectively. I am one of those people that will be required to pay more in taxes for this healthcare, while I am able to provide healthcare for my family.

...Do for yourself - the government can not do better for you than you can do for yourself!!!!

Thomas   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Why is Hillary not getting a chance to rebut, She keeps getting cut off. What is happening to CNN???? You want to know what has happened to Hillary's campaing? MEDIA

Joe C.   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

She has her point, but where did it get her before in '93??

Peoria   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

"Change you can xerox"? I'm not sure that's the one-liner I want plastered all over the cable networks throughout the next news cycle.

And apparently the crowd wasn't receptive either. All the money in the world and the top DNC advisers, and that's what they came up with?

Washington apparently is where good ideas go to die.

ZiG   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Precisely. After he CONFIRMED the charge and made it clear that a co-chair's suggestion is hardly plagerism. This ridiculous attack will only turn negative for Clinton.

Casey-Jack   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Hello his friend...isn't Deval part of his campaign team?

mario31   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

You go OBAMA!!
Tell us which politician has never repeated the words of others?? At least the words you are saying speak the truth, better to repeat a great vision than the "silliness" of the current administration...

Robert   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Agreed! Sometimes politics is just juvenile. GO OBAMA! Rise above man rise above.

Blake   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

I feel like he played it well, and agree that it is a non-issue.

You Know Me   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Contrived? No, not Senator Clinton.

I thought Obama's explanation was very good. I'm guessing that everyone in the audience realizes that candidates do not write every line they deliver.

It's a non issue.

Dean   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Still dont know what he stands for really, Hillary will nail him on healthcare, I like the guy but he seems so disorganized and fumbling in his responses

Also he is just like everybody else in Washington as well

steve   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Obama doesn't understand how washington works

Edie Harrison   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

They just need to kiss and make up. The only way are country is going to heal is if we have a revolutionary in the white house. They both could do it. No problem!

Susie   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

All Obama says in crowds is "YES WE CAN"....So I say what does that mean??? He needs to tell us what he stands for...

Geoff   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Personally, I thought his response was on target. If you buy what he represents...and a lot of people do...she's clearly acting like part of the establishment here. We don't need it.

She is getting more strident...running out of time I think.

Laura   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

I really believe that Senator Obama would never have used the line "silly season" if he were debating a man. It came across as very sexist to me. Rather offensive.

Mike R   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

She just wishes she had a colleague that could give her some good lines from time to time. Maybe her campaign would be in better shape. Certainly, Bill Clinton has not helped her all that much.

Murry   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

That Xerox comment was uncalled for. That's dirty.
Obama is right. This is silly.

Obama has proved he has substance too. There's nothing wrong with being a good communicator.

Hillary seems to be hijacking this program by going over the clock.

Merlin J.A. Salisbury   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

She got booed!

Ronald in B.R.,La   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Hillary is depending heavily on trivial talking points.

Shockces   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

What's worse, using an inspirational comment/phrase (with permission) from a friend and colleague OR riding the coat tails of your husband into every unearned political position you have occupied?

Darien   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

What a stupid charge!

Marian P Hicks   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Clinton is very whinny and really negative. She has a very negative attitude...not a good quality of a leader.

JenniferJ   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

There she goes with John Edwards. She's trying to take the blue-collar vote by evoking Edwards. Lame.

Kathy   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

So Hillary is now running the debate?? Come on CNN.....

caz   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Bill says contrived but it was a really good line.
Caz

David Maestri, AR   February 21st, 2008 9:12 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.

DEE   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

HILLARY IS ALL MOUTH AND VERY IRRITATING. SO OVERBEARING THAT SHE NAUSEATES ME.

Scott   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

She just verified what Barack said 5 minutes prior...."time for silliness in the campaign."

GL   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Obama should stick to the "silly politics" line every time she goes on the attack and gets off the substance of the debate. That could be the sound bit of tomorrow.

James   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Ok, all Hillary has to offer is negatives and fear. Great, GW Bush II in a skirt.

Cecile   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Isn't it funny that this silly question is the only new thing we have heard from the other debates ?

And yet she wants more debate...

Franklin   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Enough Hillary, this is typical down and dirty Clinton politics.

Republican for Obama   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Plagiarism ... what crap. The same old gotcha politics. It's crap. Patrick basically helped write the speech for him!

kivette   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

she struggles to keep up with him at times

Julie   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Yeah go Obama!

Noelle McAfee   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Obama won this one.

RONALD HAYES   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

YOU KNOW, ITS FUNNY HOW SHE SPEAKS ABOUT HIS USE OF SOMEONE ELSE'S LINES, WHEN JUST YESTERDAY SHE SAID IN HER SPEECH, AND I QUOTE, "YES WE CAN". HMMM. I WONDER WHERE SHE GOT THAT FROM.

Johnathon   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Continuing on with what he always says that Hillary is typical Washington, acorn doesn't fall far from the tree. HMMMM

Brit Denise   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

u see she breaks the rules, no ethics

mab   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Why does Hillary answer every single question first?

Elrod   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

She's avoiding a question on commander-in-chief to start talking again about health insurance. She's flailing.

Brenton Clark   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

That "change you can xerox" comment was horrible, I'm glad to have heard lots of people booing her after she said that.

e   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

wow did hillary actually just drop the opportunity to attack obama on experience and readiness to lead the nation

Chris   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

The unfortunate fact was that it is plagarism. If you take out the cliches, and the words hope, change, and status quo he would simply stand there blinking for 45 minutes at a time.

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Hillary turns negative and loses points, that's what's wrong with the country today

KG   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

mistake going back to health care answer the question you are asked Hil

John   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Hillary is absolutely right on this topic. He should motivate people with his OWN words....

Sunny   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

He has been going after her all evenine.. WHAT"S WRONG WITH YOU GUYS!!!

GIVE HER A BREAK!!!

John   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

This country needs a new direction not the Clinton's nor McCain's

bob   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Obama is nieve about healthcare. I believe he WANTS change, but he doesn't have the experience or the know-how to achieve it.

gurarro   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Obama, got her on that. He sounded like, "I am tired of hearing that sillines, now let's move on."

Michiel W   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Am watching the debate and yes, Hillary is doing great! But CNN your bias is showing again. While the moderator seems to be cutting Hillary short, Barack is allowed to go on anywhere from 1 to 3 minutes longer than she is allowed to speak.

mab   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Why does Hillary answer every single question first?

Mel   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

But he lied, he has lifted words from Senator Edwards as well and opened himself up to attacks in the GE since the Republicans already have a list of words he has lifted from a number of people.

Blow ME   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Xerox it baby!!!

Julie   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

The trick for Clinton is going to be to show that she isn't just tough, but able to inspire. She focuses too much on an antagonism toward the current administration. Obama doesn't do that and it makes it easier for R's like me who are disillusioned to come to his side.

Scott in Tulsa   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Has anybody read "Target" by Kathleen Willey? IF you read that book, I guarantee you absolutely will not vote for Hillary. Check it out.

Ben from D.C.   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Clinton, you are trying to get people to like you, not to resent you.

Andy   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Game, set, match......Obama is on his way.

Brit Denise   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

she is mean and rude

Chuck   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Obama's comment about "silly season" was dead on and Clinton didn't know how to handle it. She is helping him make his case with her politics as usual style.

Luswei   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Where's the footage Charlie Gibson showed on ABC News of Hillary using the exact same lines John Edwards used about If we can track videos from Blockbuster we ought to be able to track immigration? She is a hypocrite that focuses on the petty because she has nothing else!

Casey   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Good Clinton one liner. If it catches, it can actually sway the votes she needs in her favor. Little things do add up! Think, all Obama had to say was "Hope."

Merrick   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Who is directing this debate..? He/she keeps missing the close-ups of the candidates at the very beginning of the debate and coming in and out of the breaks. We're looking for the emotion, fellas!

Also: RIDICULOUS having these commercials. Shame on you, CNN!

Lynn In St. Louis   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Bill are you related to Obama? You seem to be following him around.

Clarence   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

She tried...Nice XEROX comment, though! But she failed, because she went too far with this thing!

Barbara   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

who writes her speeches? oh right, the words are all her own.

DD   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Contrived? I'm sorry, are we watching the same debate?

KG   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

she is losing it...trying to be mean and negative does not sway educated voters....

Longhorns 4 Change   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Hey Bill Schneider, are you going to be taking Barack home for a night cap after the debate? You're so clearly smitten with him, you'd think ya'll are dating.

END THE SCHNEIDER BIAS NOW

Joe C.   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Yeah that was idiotic on her part she needs to get over it!

J.N.   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Hillary you're done!!

Mitsy   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

I loved that line. I'm tired of the stupid negative remarks from Hillary Clinton.

Andy   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Obama seems to be more prepared in this debate...

BUT go HILLARY!!!

Bob G.   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

"Ask not what you can do for Obama, but what Obama can do for you!"
- President Obama's Inaugaural speech

d.a.   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Hillary was right, he is fake, it is an issue

joywinnebago   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Why isn't it plagiarism? He'd have been thrown out of Harvard for it....

Flick   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Bitter, table for one.

Jon   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

How biased, are you, Bill? Gosh, did Obama promise you kickbacks or something?

Osita Nwoye, Abuja Nigeria   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Should people start patenting thier speeches? hilary answer!!!

Andrew   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Hillary needs to drop the "plagiarism" issue. It tanked tonight and she looks petty trying to push it.

Kathy   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Hillary sure backed away from that one quick and changed the subject.

Dr Roy Creasey   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

She's fighting back. I liked the Xerox comment.

Reagan Pugh   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

"silliness" ....yes. He's focusing on the issues and Clinton's working on an easy, cheap upper hand.

R. Koehler   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Bill! Come on! His speeches are xeroxed! Let's here substance!

Clinton08   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

loved it!!!

Jason   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Obama gets tossed a softball then Hillary crushes him....And your result he wins.....Wow you should judge rigged boxing matches Bill

Kathy   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

She seems desperate and mean. He seems substantive and presidential.

I'm really impressed by Obama tonight.

pj   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

she is throwing all her jabs right now, and i dont blame her, but he is taking the jabs and is landing blows. his answer on plagurism was fantastic and the health care answer was emphatic.

rumble young man, rumble!

Johnathon   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Hey, that's how he can win! Yes, I mean no, I mean well I am confused.

Maria, NYC   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

She just lost the debate...

Josean   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Well actually is true..Even my mother who backs obama told me the other day that this guy is repetitive...He's trying to be MLK but Obama YOU"RE NOT MLK

Linda   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Obama did well in dealing with the plagiarism issue. But then her angered showed....and negativity...her true side came out...not good for her

PING   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Hey Bill, I thought the media was supposed to be un-biased?

JenniferJ   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

He handled it better than I thought he would. Did you see her face? She turned into "Ugly Hillary" after the silly season comment.

Jd   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

MR XEROX IS NOT THE RIGHT CHOICE! VOTE HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT!

Siobhan   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

You know she and her staff thought that comment was going to draw a big reaction and instead there was nothing.

The crowd seemed very uncomfortable when she went all shrew on him.

John from Carlsbad   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

I keep on saying this

SAD SAD SAD!

He explained the situation and she tries to play old politics by attacking something he clarified.

How pathetic is she. That shows exactly the president she will be. Petty and playing old games expecting a different result.

SAD!

Chrys Lemon   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

He has a very good defense to the plagiarism charge; the source knew he was going to use the line and, apparently, encouraged it.

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

silly season...

steve keck in columbus   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Hillary throws a jab, Obama dodges and hits her with an uppercut.

How many more till she falls?

The booing audience isnt evident enough?

Donald, Butte, MT   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

If Obama keeps pointing his nose in the air like he's knee deep in cow crap, she's going to punch him out!!!

Ryan M.   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

The audience did not like Clinton's pushiness on that charge... it is a loser.

Jackson F   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

A lot of boos on that one, right after he ALREADY explained that there were a few lines he used from a friend and co-chair.

The national co-chair remark really hit it big, and he alluded again to people getting discouraged by pointless attacks.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
@wolfblitzercnn: New SitRoom start time. Beg. mid-Jan, we're on 5-7p ET. Our excellent team can focus on 2 solid hrs. Less becomes more.
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 06:45:58 -0800
@psteinhauserCNN: New CNN Poll: Tiger Woods' standing with Americans takes a big hit but there appears to be a big racial divide - http://bit.ly/6dW44s
Updated: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 05:28:45 -0800
@wolfblitzercnn: Trifecta -- NOT. My Redskins, Bills and Packers all lose this weekend. Very sad.
Updated: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 20:40:09 -0800
@HornickCNN: RT @andersoncooper: Interactive: The top 10 Health-Care-Reform Players http://bit.ly/6C3OlX
Updated: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:47:50 -0800
@HornickCNN: RT @cnn_oppmann: CNN.com: Mexico City approves same-sex marriage. http://bit.ly/5RyMnk #mexico
Updated: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:46:26 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP