February 21, 2008
Posted: February 21st, 2008 08:53 PM ET
ALT TEXT

AUSTIN, Texas (CNN) - You would have to be a Philadelphia lawyer to tell the difference between these two candidates.

Neither has really gone after each other, even though the moderators have given them ample opportunity.

Now it's virtually a matter of who says the same thing better. And if this continues, Obama will likely win - he's always been viewed as the more effective communicator.

Clinton needs to start challenging Obama if she wants to gain the upper hand.

– CNN Senior Political Analyst Bill Schneider

Filed under: Bill Schneider


Debbie   February 21st, 2008 10:01 pm ET

Hilary Clinton is amazing and brilliant. I hope people to start to see her leadership qualities.
Even Obama looks up to her. He knows she is the one to listen to.
Watch how he agrees with her and even takes notes on what she says. I bet he will come up with policies that imitate what she said in the debate.
I pray Hilary wins.

Bright Clayton   February 21st, 2008 9:56 pm ET

Campbell Brown was biased as she has always been on the CNN show in her questioning of Clinton.

R Holloway   February 21st, 2008 9:54 pm ET

I do believe moderator Brown, treated Sen Clinton very unfailey.

Donna Rice   February 21st, 2008 9:54 pm ET

I liked the Xerox comment. Sometimes the truth hurts. CNN just can't say it!

R Holloway   February 21st, 2008 9:52 pm ET

These are both very good canidates to bad there has to be a loser. I do think Hillary scored a little better, especially with her closing statement.

doneth   February 21st, 2008 9:49 pm ET

Hilary and Obama were very civil....none of them went for the jugglar.

Nick   February 21st, 2008 9:48 pm ET

Why does Hillary seem to hide from the fact that she is the former first lady, one of the most active and powerful first ladies ever, of one of the most successful presidencies of our generation? Reagan was a great leader, but he and Bush I left us deeply in debt and soaring inflation. Bill did get us prosperous and balanced. The years since have been terrible economy-wise. Bang that home and people will listen more!!!

Freda   February 21st, 2008 9:47 pm ET

Where's the BEEF- not in OBAMA's statements- he has to repeat what Hillary has already said or agree with everything she says!

Lora   February 21st, 2008 9:47 pm ET

She just rocked that. Tell me she didn't win. I was writing the questions, answers, and the independent audience ratings... she scored in the 70% !!!!!! He maintained a solid 50% on the question about crisis in thier lives... !!! She was gracious, he looked irked.

GO GIRL !!!

Linda   February 21st, 2008 9:47 pm ET

I like Barack but I think Hillary is really the best choice based on what she knows and can do. She has a much firmer grasp of the issues. Barack just seems to glom ideas from others and makes them his own. A Clinton-Obama ticket would be ideal. He could learn alot on the job and make a good president – someday. He's a quick study and he's really not ready yet. Hillary is the best choice for the country at this time.

cheryl   February 21st, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Once again... Hillary came out on top.... She showed how gracious she is , and got her point across about what this election is all about... THE PEOPLE!!!

Texas for Hillary   February 21st, 2008 9:45 pm ET

go Hillary! We are always be with you!

Let's get real   February 21st, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Ok, media gaints . .take that. She got a standing ovation!

mitch in sc   February 21st, 2008 9:43 pm ET

barak is obviously lost without a speech. or he's lost when he's not repeating the same old stuff over and over again.

Dorothy   February 21st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Is this the Obama show?Campbell Brown is so biased towards Obama and constantly interupts Hillary or goes to break. Obama is rude raising his hand when Hillary is talking, very childish!

Nathan   February 21st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

The difference is simple: Obama is full of hot air and not much else. Clinton is perhaps the most accomplished woman in the history of the nation. Also, Universal Healthcare will be an American right under Clinton, under Obama it won't.

Donna Rice   February 21st, 2008 9:42 pm ET

Go Hillary! NOW there is an answer to when someone is tested!

Aldo Gandia   February 21st, 2008 9:41 pm ET

Both candidates have debated well, tonight. I'm really proud of my country.

Gala   February 21st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Could someone explain what Mr. Obama would be doing in the White House if the people are being responsible for all the things he's suggesting? Will he be on vacation? Hilliary is a much more real person than he is. Wake up people!

Aneta   February 21st, 2008 9:40 pm ET

Yes, indeed, Hillary is batle tested and ready to go. The experience does matter.
The Republicans would eat him alive in November. We can not afford that to happen. Barack really thinks that Republicans and Democrats would shake hands after November, and work together? Did that ever happened? And as an outsider himself would accomplish anything?
Let's be realistic. Th eanswer is NO.

Tasha from Texas   February 21st, 2008 9:39 pm ET

Coming from a black woman, the only thing that will change in the White House, is the color of its occupants barack talks too much.

Blow ME   February 21st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

I need a shower. I feel like I just came back from Church after Obama's comment about Superdelegates.

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:38 pm ET

I like Barack but I think Hillary knows more and has the will to get done what needs to be done. A Clinton-Obama ticket wouldn't be so bad. He'd probably learn alot on-the-job from the new president. I agree with some of the other posters that Obama has little substance and gloms ideas from everyone that "sound" good coming from his affable persona. Hillary is the best choice all-around. I know she wants to get the universal health care issue finally resolved, among so many of the other issues about which she has made very definite policy statements. Hillary is my choice. Of course the sad thing is that because I'm from Michigan my delegate won't have a vote for her.

ANN   February 21st, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Obama never answers the questions, only agrees with what Hillary says. He needs to tell us exactly how he is going to accomplish any thing. He talks without telling us anything, he is a good orator but we need more than that.

Peggy   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

clinton comes off as a better debater. obama seems to have trouble formulating his thoughts

kristine   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

clinton is making him look so bad!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Von   February 21st, 2008 9:36 pm ET

CHANGE, CHANGE, CHANGE is all I continue to hear. Listen people, change will automatically take place when Bush leaves the office. We will have a new beginning with whom ever we as a country decide to put into office. We as a country will have to live through four years of their political views and right now they are all making these grand promises but in the end the truth of their intentions will be revealed. Snap out of the trance these grand speeches and roaring crowds have you in and "FOCUS PEOPLE FOCUS".

cat   February 21st, 2008 9:35 pm ET

As undecided voters in Austin, my husband and I were watching the debate to hear the actual ideas of both candidates. Clearly, Hillary has concrete ideas and has a more specfic ways of dealing with the problems. I am impressed with her ability to comunicate.

Brady   February 21st, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Why should she start challenging Obama. Anytime she does so CNN comes out with a headline in the spirit "Clinton gets aggressive" .. she's standing her ground and explaining herself and that is enough. I mean ultimately how do you find against the movement of "meaningless change" or "change for change's sake" that the Obama campaign is pushing. It's not like any of the change-motivated Obama junkies have an idea how to change that into pratical policy. Maybe someday we will live in a USA where people vote with their minds and not based on a feel-good trend.

Tere   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Someone should teach Obama the meaning of a debate, he already has the campaign down pack. Let her speak, he interrupts constantly and and Ms. Brown changes the question. This is really one sided, this is not a debate. With Clinton's economy health care will be affordable. With Clinton's plan on bringing the troops home is the right way to do it. With Clinton's plan on education, we will be able to afford to get a higher education.

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Obama not only has the support of newspapers, also medias.
Look CNN, did not allow them to have equal time to speak?

Lee   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

How can you say that? Obama stutters, hem-haw, stammers, and hesitates like he's trying to remember the details.

Nikki   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

We need Clinton as our President.....Solutions verses Ideas.....Solutions verses Good Speeches. This is not a popularity test....this is our future and our country.

M Bride   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

The debate monitor fails to signal obama and allows him to rattle on about other subjects.

Melissa Haussman   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Bill, are you watching the same debate the rest of us are?

Hillary is showing the difference that experience makes and her answers on specifics are GREAT.

steve   February 21st, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Clinton on top of this one!

JOJO   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Don't think the so called moderator are playing fair game..
they have never cut off Obama.. why always Clinton??

Deb IL   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I agree, she is in a no win situation. She can't come off too aggressive or she gets booed. When she answers first, he just says he agrees and gets in a couple tack on answers. They don't let them go back and forth like last time, too constrained this time. HE is playing it safe just mimicking almost all of her answers. He did waffle on the Cuba question though!

mwalk   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Cambell Brown is the wrong moderator, she is inappropriately inervening at the akward times

Mujeeb in NJ   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Best political team on TV decided to select Campbell to moderate this debate, Was Wolfe off tonight?

Sylvia Murphy   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I am 69 years old and nothing has served me better in life than experience-Hillary will be the better prepared president -Obama vice-resident – he will get his experience as vice-president – that way the Democrats will hold the white house for 16 years. Wake up americans!

izzy   February 21st, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I was hoping that Obama talked about substance on policies...He has secured my vote 100%...Hillary would make a great VP

Angelica California   February 21st, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Obama talks about having good judgment to see into the future. When Hillary voted for the war she voted for specifics to have the UN inspect. He has no place talking about judgment with as many personal mistakes as he has made in his personal life. What about when he took drugs, was it bad judgment

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

Another point to make, they from both paties are all senators, none have any experience as the commander in chief. So now that is out of the way it comes down to who do you trust?

jd   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

In each debate, it is clear that Clinton has well thought out solutions to the problems we face. She never gets the credit from the pundits but she clearly knows what she is talking about.

K Hart   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Clinton is not being given a fair shot. She keeps being cut off during her answers while Obama is allowed to speak freely.

Chris Krieg   February 21st, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Obama doesn't understand the economy when he wants to raise everyone's taxes and cutting taxes is what creates jobs and expands the tax base....

virgil brant   February 21st, 2008 9:27 pm ET

sorry to say, if Hillary can't admit that the surge is working, how can she admit to her own short comings if she is called up short?

adel   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

I still maintain my point that, Obama, with his so called inexperience is surely a smart guy. What if he has been doing this work for thirty something years?

mc   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

CNN: what's with the stupid graphic designs on the screen, those spidery lines all over the bottom of the screen? very distracting.

concernedAZ   February 21st, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Campbell Brown needs to quit interrupting everyone!!! HOw did she get to host this debate anyway!!

Donna Rice   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Ok the horse is dead now!

Lisa   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Barak is great at the rah rah stuff but he cannot speak to the issues the way Hillary can.

laura   February 21st, 2008 9:25 pm ET

Obama is just proving over and over that his ideas come from Hillary, not him. He rambles on and on and says nothing.

People, open your eyes.

He was opposed to Iraq?! Isn't that special!! He wasn't even in the Senate! Neither was I.

Wake up America!

jessica   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

clinton is the better candidate for three reasons:

1) obama has no experience and has made no change while in the senate

2) obama has not come up with any of his own ideas as shown in this debate

3) obama's solutions for his change are no clear.... i have gone to his website and he is very vague... saying you are going to "help educate children is a great idea, but i am more interested in HOW you are going to go about this...."

all in all.... vote for clinton if you want a president that is experienced, knows what to do to make a difference, and will do it.

Bob   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Hillary clearly has the more international credentials and demonstrated that tonight. Hillary knows the international arena far more than Obama, and it is unfortunate that her campaign has not communicated more effectively on this issue.

Robyn   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Ok, Barrack-- Did you vote to fund the war spending bill, the surge? Humm ,but your complaining we did not have enough weapons when we went to war.

carol core   February 21st, 2008 9:24 pm ET

Hillary is showing her broad knowledge of all subjects tonight. No one can deny that now.

Chris Krieg   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

He says he's ready but if he thinks the war is wrong, how can he possibly say he will do everything to protect our national security? Appeasement is not the answer. Our presence over there is stopping the terrorists from attacking us.

Let's get real   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Does Obama think he is "right" about everything? Is he a prophet?

jp/michigan   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

Hillary talks about solutions, while Obama takes her solution and adds a few comments. More than once he states their solutions are the same will very little difference. Like the words he has taken from Patrick, he takes from Clinton her solutions on the issues.

chrisitian   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

This is HISTORY !!!!!!

maz   February 21st, 2008 9:23 pm ET

I am very concerned that Obama has little to NO experience with dealing with foreign affairs. This scares me. We need an experienced leader, therefore my vote goes to Sen. Clinton.

Ed & Arlene   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

OBAMA VOTES BY SAYING "PRESENT" THIS RELIEVES HIM OF HAVING TO TAKE ANY RESPONSIBILITY.

mason   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

campbell brown needs to hush up and let clinton speak. and what the heck is jorge doing asking a question like that? a bilingual america – what kind of question is that? learn english and hush up!

SMART1   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Give us OBAMA/HILARY TICKET

Upstate NY   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

He is stumbling over his ideas. Bad night for Obama, but he has nothing to worry about; CNN and others will only highlight only his words.

McCain will destroy Obama.

Chris Krieg   February 21st, 2008 9:22 pm ET

Obama is full of hot air.

Joyce MN   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Why is he getting so much face time and the commentators seem to keep cutting her off?

RSN   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

Go Hilary! Obama is an inexperienced nobody

Hol   February 21st, 2008 9:21 pm ET

If Senator Clinton "attacks" Senator Obama, she is seen as nasty and negative. If Senator Obama "attacks" Senator Clinton, he is seen as a good communicator. What is going on here? The media has decided who should win and now are busy attempting to convincre voters. Not this one, however: Senator Clinton is so far above Senator Obama in terms of what she has done and can do and it is time to recognize this.

Billie Shaffer   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama is the Media's darling, just as Dubya was back 8 years ago. They all, Schneider included, snipe at everything Hillary says and does.
Wolf Blitzer is particularly bad about it, and btw –she doesn't "smirk". That is Dubya's province.
Those who say they "don't trust her"... Can you think of a good reason for saying that, or are you parroting someone else? I can't think of a single reason to distrust her.

Derek, Jersey Shore   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

He says Taliban like Bush says nuclear.

judy   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Iam very disappointed in this debate. Campbell Brown has repeatedly cut off Senator Clinton and given Barack Obama more time to talk until Clinton finally insisted on being heard. Otherwise a good debate. I am an older American and feel that a lot of Obama's policies are all originally Clinton's policies, just modified and presentec as his own.

Phanee   February 21st, 2008 9:20 pm ET

Obama is attacking Clinton.... saying her judgement was wrong :-)

Ed & Arlene   February 21st, 2008 9:19 pm ET

OBAMAS HEALTH CARE PEROGRAM IS VERY SUSPECT!!!!
HE WILL DO NOTHING HE IS NOTHING BUT TALK.

margie   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

CLINTON, IS FINALLY STANDING STRONG AND SHE COULD PROBABLY BE A GREAT LEADER.

troy mitts   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Yes. Campbell is married to a Republican on Fox. She also has a habit cutting Senator Clinton off. That tees me off.

Antonio   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I don't buy Obama.
There's something about him. I like what I hear, but I don't know what I'm getting.

Judy   February 21st, 2008 9:18 pm ET

I would agree with a Clinton,Obama ticket! I believe each have their strengths. Obama would be excellent with mediating between parties, giving inspiration speeches to congress as well as the rest of the world. She has great knowledge as well, would do good research. Between the two of them we would have an excellent ticket.

mitch in sc   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

why does that campbell woman keep interrupting hillary? it is so obvious that hillary is the one who can take on debating mcain.

Roxy   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

What are they really going about energy specifically who are wasting many ways -electrical vehiclles, are a reality when can they achieve.
When will there be a bill to prevent damage.

This is not even important to anyone yet. Can John Kings raise the issue Please!

Heather   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

There is such a world of difference between the two of them
I hope the American people are not dumb enough to fall the Great and Powerful Wizard of Obama

Jazz   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

HILLARY'S GOT GAME!!!!!! YES SHE DOES!!!!!!!! HEALTHCARE, ECONOMY, IMMIGRATION, FOREIGN POLICY ETC ETC ETC

jose santos   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

wow this debate is actually turning out to be WAY better than how it started...

ggranny21   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

I see why you have so many comments for Obama,you erase all the ones for Clinton.Fair is fair but you wouldn't know that!!!

D Hopkinson   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Excellent reference to madatory social security and medicare participation, with regards to making health care mandatory! With the Clinton economy, we'll be able to afford it!

Tere Preciado   February 21st, 2008 9:17 pm ET

Ms. Brown is obviously one sided – she does NOT LET Clinton Speak. It is obvious that Ms Brown only wants to allow Obama repeat others words as his own. Let Hillary speak, let her tell us hear what she has to say and what SHE has to add.

dennis   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Go Hillary!!! Fight, fight, fight! You have trhe experience. Go for it! D

Rough n Tough Politics   February 21st, 2008 9:16 pm ET

Fight Hilary fight...

Tanya   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

I love the fact they don't have real time limits....just Campbell limits.

virginia sheehan   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

the bottom line is experience. you couldn't take a waitress and put her into a semi truck/trailer with no training or experience. The way our country is at the present time, we can not afford to have "on the job training" for anyone. George Bush has proven that.

Lloyd G. Phipps Georgia   February 21st, 2008 9:15 pm ET

I agree with Clinton on the healthcare issue, you never get everything you want in this bill. You have to shoot for the stars and hope to get as much as you can.

Gogo   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Finally! They've found a topic to dig into! Perhaps now they can draw some distinctions between one another.

Dan   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

They need to let them argue healthcare.

Brien old guy   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Obama is getting hammered on this point. Hillary has to pound away on this issue, and she is getting good points here.

margie   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Speeches you can XEROX!! THIS IS HILARIOUS!!!

Tere Preciado   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

I agree this is NOT a debate and I am tired of Obama repeating everything that senator Clinton says. She gives the ideas and plans and he repeats her words. She answers the questions, he repeats her words. I guess other peoples words are worth something since he has no words of his own!

Lynne   February 21st, 2008 9:14 pm ET

Campbell Brown is out of control. Does she believe she needs to prove that she can be hard on another woman.

Megan   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Hillary is the only one explaining what she is going to do when she gets into office. Obama is just agreeing with her and saying absolutely nothing new. Unfortunately, the moderator Campbell Brown, is being extremely rude to Hillary .. is it obivious to everyone else who she is voting for?

MIKE   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Hillary, is doing a much better job defining and clarfying the issues that are important to Americans.

Richard   February 21st, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Hillary has experience and substance. Obama has arrogance and political ambition. I can't believe how the media including CNN gives the response advance to Obama just by how they word a question to him or avoid response by Clinton.

Dino   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Campbell Brown should ask questions that are relevant to the issues, instead of trying to instigate a fight.

shaan   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Hillary rocks!!! She is my hero... yes, healthcare is a substantive difference and not a philosphical difference.

Kevin Zelko   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

middle america isn't liberal you say???

Who did they vote for Obama or Clinton? Without Oklahoma and Arkansas- Obama took them all!!!

bwonder   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

It's not a hockey fight, its a debate. I believe Hillary's statements are true, honest and thought out. Maybe she's too smart for the general public to understand that experience is needed.

Joe Garcia   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Obama and Cliton should be debating on marriage tax credit to help families get more in their pocket and help the economy.

Ben   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Why is Obama allowed to rant on and on and as soon as Clinton starts talking the moderator can't wait to stop her and turn the floor back over to Obama.......

Donna Rice   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Clinton was forced into drawing first blood it was promted.

TNT   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

This debate is less about who will win the nomination and more about pushing the party foward for November maybe that is why they are so nice to each other.

Bob Bologna   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

This debate is a joke! As a 36 year old white male I am appalled and sadden to hear these 2 candidates sit hear and suck up to the ILLEGAL immigrants in order to win Latino votes in Texas!
#1 CLOSE the borders and build the fences! I don't care if this offends the Mexicans! THIS IS AMERICA NOT Mexico! It would also make it harder for the terrorists enter this country who want to harm us!
#2 ENGLISH is the only language of this country! Learn it or get out! WHY do we need to accommodate others?
#3 This is our country. Why should we reward illegals who get a free ride in our school system, our hospitals, depress our wages, who collect social security? They are not entitled to our benefits that we as tax payers should get! Cry me a river illegals.
Sad that one of these 2 will be our next president! WE need a 3rd party!!!

Phanee   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Clinton is doing the right thing by getting back to the Healthcare point. Why are the moderators trying to stop that????

chrisitian   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

This is very interesting that after the commercial break it seems to have gotten "heated" Or is it just me ?

Stephen DeWitt   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

It's outrageous that Campbell Brown does not give Sentator Clinton an opportunity to defend herself. She apparently has more problems cutting off a man than a woman!

sm   February 21st, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Maybe Barrack will sneeze and get a standing ovation. Dear God, this man is not the Savior. Are this many Americans that naive. Promise the world, but they will not get it done. No way, no how.

K Hart   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

They need to let Sen Clinton speak. She has been cut off several times while Sen. Obama is allowed to go on and on.

Ed & Arlene   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

WHY DOES CAMPBELL BROWN KEEP CUTTING OFF SENATOR CLINTON WHEN SHE IS TRYING TO EXPLAIN HER SIDE OF AN ISSUE, AND SHE LETS OBAMA TALK, TALK, TALK, FOREVERY?

I WONDER WHO SHE IS VOTING FOR??????? ALONG WITH CNN

Malcolm McColl   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Hilary Clinton is intelligent beyond belief. If the US ever wanted to have the smartest person available in the office of the presidency they should probably choose Hilary Clinton. That woman has brains to burn.

Obama is intimidated by her brains tonight, and while he's game he's losing. She is too smart. She may not win the election but she is definitely the smartest person to run for the office since her husband, and before that, gee whiz, nobody.

gary   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Hillary has the experence,where is obamas experance

Let's get real   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Obama is always talking ideas because he soesn't have any solutions, Reagon Pugh.

Carol A   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

How do you propose Clinton start challenging Obama when everytime she tries, Campbell Brown either stops her as soon as she begins to speak, or we go to a commercial break. Give me a break!

Anonymous   February 21st, 2008 9:11 pm ET

People are lemmings and the idea of Hillary as shrew comes to the fore whenever a direct challenge is posed. She has demonstrated superior debate skills throughout every forum to date, and yet people laud Obama's oratory. Sometimes entrenched misgivings and antipathy can't be overcome despite a person's superlative attributes.

chip fitz   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

why is this blog being so trite and petty- this is serious stuff and some of you are waiting for the big punch- it isn't a title fight- it's a debate.

MEgirl   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Clinton has the upper hand because she has real action plans....his "charming" style can't win when it's tough-as-nails commitments to true actionary methods.

cheryl   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

I agree... Obama is just pushing ideas..... he has no clue how to bring them to fruition

Brian   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Mark my words...The left will kill our country.

WILLIE R SCHOLZ   February 21st, 2008 9:10 pm ET

Senator Clinton establishes herself as being a running mate rather then being the opponent.....

Catherine   February 21st, 2008 9:09 pm ET

Does CNN understand what a debate means.? The media is the problem in this race. I thought a debate meant a discussion of where you stand on issues. Campbell is allowing them to discuss items that are not related to the question. Oh I forgot, the media today is nothing more than a glorified National Enquirer magazine.

The media needs to get out of this race instead of promoting the presidential race as some American Idol competition.

I want a president on Day ONE. It is clear who that is. GO HILLARY!!!!!!!

Heather McGowan   February 21st, 2008 9:09 pm ET

Hillary is missing her opportunity. Obama is entirely without substance and her only attack is on his borrowed speech????

Why is she pandering to him?

He is riding on her ideas by repeating them while adding 'we need to bring everyone together and open up the process' to the beginning of every sentence

Rachel   February 21st, 2008 9:09 pm ET

We don't need a brawl or blood bath between these candidates....that would mean neither would be worth the presidency.

Scott   February 21st, 2008 9:09 pm ET

obama is so superfical, he's a wolf in sheeps clothing.

bowling green,mo.

Eleanor   February 21st, 2008 9:08 pm ET

I think no matter which one wins they should team up at the end
they would be a strong force together against republicans

Romey Azuine   February 21st, 2008 9:08 pm ET

I'm loving this. This is so very interesting. Both candidates are threading carefully along this slippery slope of courting the voters.

exwxman   February 21st, 2008 9:08 pm ET

It appears to me that Sen. Obama is being allowed to extend remarks more than Sen, Clinton. Are the moderators aware of this?

Barack is great, but Hillary in 08!   February 21st, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Obama is an excellent speaker, captivating, but ...... a state senator since 96, he wanted more power so he went for US Senate and there he found out he was just the newcomer on the block and couldn't get things done. Now he wants to be the President and thinks that he can change politics and Washington overnight. Yes, those are dreams and hopes. I have had hopes and dreams before, I am no longer a naive college student, give me action. Give me experience – and someone that understands the reality of actually being able to get things done. Experience does matter – through experience you learn from your failures and your successes. He plain does not have enough experience to take the highest office. The Republicans will eat Obama alive on this and he will become the next Carter. Don't forget about the Republican machine he will go up against in November – Hillary has taken them on over and over again. Hillary is battle tested and ready to go.

Alicia   February 21st, 2008 9:07 pm ET

So far, I agree with Clinton. Obama is a fantastic orator, but the gift of speech is meaningless if there isn't much substance behind it.

Obama needs to get down to specifics.

David Ostrowidzki   February 21st, 2008 9:07 pm ET

10 mintes for Obama and 5 minutes for CLinton...THen hey we have some time restraints here for Ms. CLinton only. What a lously job of moderation. He attacks and she has to sit and listen.

Armin   February 21st, 2008 9:07 pm ET

How boring,
Obama is not trying to lose and HIllary is bland
Their views on a lot of topics are laughable

Brien old guy   February 21st, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Obama seems uncomfortable talking about universal health care, it is his weak spot.

godfrey   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

this is no debate. It lacks substance. No discussions on iraq, US/CHINA/RUSSIA relations, dafur, national debt,etc

Pam   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

i think we may be looking at a obama – clinton ticket??

Aneta   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

I think Hillary is more and more eloquent as the evening goes on.
She is giving more arguments to the reality that we are facing today(our ambasy in Serbia set on fire, that's how much we are liked overseas!) while barack remains a good talker, but no roots to reality.

Erineyes   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

I wish the interviewers wouldn't try to turn the discussion into a dog fight. I want to hear the issues. There is enough sound bites daily to fill all our needs for back biting. These debates should stay off the "silly subjects". There isn't much sunlight of difference between these candidates and I'd like to hear them explain the differences. If your intent is to go for ratings, I'm not interested. I want indepth discussion of issues. More than the evening new can provide. Please, stop going for what you consider might make good "rating". This is an important time in our lives and we need to be serious about issues .... not ratings.

Patrick   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Both candidates keep putting down Bush for the war in Iraq. I want to know what they would have done if they were president on 9/11 when our country was attacked?

JAIME   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

There is no difference... they will both raise taxes(how else will they pay for all of these goverment handouts,free heathcare,free college,free medication) What do you think will happen to jobs when they "raise taxes on the so called "rich".... they will cut jobs to make up the difference in lost taxes!!!! What they call "RICH" might be a small business owner.... it might be you.... or do you think YOU are the poorest person in this country???

Andrew   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Obama has done a good job not giving Hillary too many issues to exploit, but he needs to know when to speak and when to shut up. He goes on for too long.

Diane Slaton   February 21st, 2008 9:06 pm ET

In this vast country, is this the best we have?

David Ostrowidzki   February 21st, 2008 9:05 pm ET

Campbell obviously likes Obama better and let's him ramble on and on.

Adriana   February 21st, 2008 9:05 pm ET

Obama is a baby compared to Hillary. I can't believe Americans are falling for his rhetoric of "change". Change will come no matter what once Bush leaves! Stop the funk and get real Obama.

Donna   February 21st, 2008 9:05 pm ET

I don't understand the Obama love fest thing. Hillary knows how to deal. She's been around the block and knows a thing or two about the game, has crossed party lines to get things done and seems to have been able to swallow a lot of crap to get what she needs. Obama scares me because he seems untouchable. The media is so busy kissing up and perpetuating the hoopla I don't get the sense that anyone is really listening. For if they did....... how long has Barack been proud of his country ?? Longer than Michelle?? And the end game???

DJ   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

Obama seems to be stumbling a little tonight.

David Maestri, AR   February 21st, 2008 9:04 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.

Sthrnmiss   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

Does anyone support the next President anymore? I think she's doing well tonight.
HILLARY 2008!

TUPAPA   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

its getting ugly!

sammy   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

there's your challenge. now she's challenging obama. hillary is the one to become president.

John   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

I think this fact can be attributed to the style of the debate. I feel if the candidates were more limited from summarizing their stump speech during their responses, the two candidates would go at each other mroe.

Chrys Lemon   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

They both should be on the ticket.

yns   February 21st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

Go Hillary Go! You have substance! This is what we need! I do hope that any educated person in the US can see it!

steve clemens   February 21st, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Frankly, It's pathetic that CNN keeps trying to make these two fight as opposed to digging deeper into issues that matter

Jim Stefanick   February 21st, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Here's the difference...Obama talks about the problems while Hillary talks about solutions.

immyt   February 21st, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Why doesn't someone bring up the fact that Hillary has been "BRUTILIZED" by the pundents! Thank God Barak has Hillary to get his idea's from.

Bob G.   February 21st, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Not only the endorsement of all the Texas newspapers, but also CNN, MSNBC, and FOX and all the other media

TAMower in Oklahoma   February 21st, 2008 9:03 pm ET

A calculated plan...now she's swinging....

BRM   February 21st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

she's nailing him now!

Chrys Lemon   February 21st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

The pink elephant - they both should be on the ticket.

justin   February 21st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

They are going after each other now!

james in columbus   February 21st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

uh oh, "a change you can xerox", here we go, the gloves have come off.

Rebecca DeWitt   February 21st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

Campbell Brown is showing a distinct favoritism toward Barack Obama and letting him run on and on, when she cuts Clinton off in the middle of very important points.

Deirdre Monroe   February 21st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

Have we been watching the same debate? Senator Clinton has been a far better communicator than Obama. She has a better command of what she wants to say and how she gets her points across to the audience. Obama has not been as articulate or received as much applause for his key points.

Phil   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

She's swinging now, so far he's deflecting pretty good.

Lyn   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Please let Hillary speak. When Obama speaks he mumbles and doesn't answer the question.

Kim in Columbus   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

She just called him out of using his buddie's words for his weak speeches.

Dr Roy Creasey   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Finally, some debate. Obama is starting to look alive and Hillary is fighting back.

Betty   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Finally – something other than "Senator Obama and I agree that....."

Linds   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

"speeches you can xerox"

HAHAHAHAH

Marty   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

I disagree...this is exactly what Clinton needs...she needs to remind voters that her and Obama are the same on the issues for hte most part but that she is the only one with the experience to make change happen...she needs to remind DEMS that for all of Obamas energized crowds they are all in the face of a DEMOCRATIC primary and that middle America is not as liberal...

Mikal   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

When are these two going to distinguish themselves? Stop the innuendos and get to clear statements and positions that draws a clear line of differences between these two candidates in relation to the issues. Not silly things like who said what or did you say something that someone else said.

Bruno NJ   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

DIng Ding lets get it on

Robert Campbell   February 21st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Love that she's a Campbell, but isn't Campbell Brown married to a Republican commentator for Fox?

Just wondering how appropriate that is for a key Democratic debate on CNN.

Also Brown keeps interrupting both Hillary and Barack when they are each making a huge point and people are applauding.

She needs to chill a bit more like some of the moderators of the other debates.

Dean   February 21st, 2008 9:00 pm ET

Xerox I love it, here it comes

David   February 21st, 2008 9:00 pm ET

Why do they both say they want to impose Americas views and policies with cuba, please explain the difference with Iraq?

Matthew Richmond Virginia   February 21st, 2008 9:00 pm ET

Here she comes...attack him, down you go Hills.

richie sullivan   February 21st, 2008 9:00 pm ET

Sen. Obama will always stay cool and talk around Sen. Clinton he is better schooled

Miami   February 21st, 2008 8:59 pm ET

TOO MUCH TALK, way to much talk, lets have actions, I'm about to lose my house, kids are nuts, husband depressed, what can you do for me....

Skeptic   February 21st, 2008 8:59 pm ET

I think Barack has the upper hand in this debate. All he has to do is not mess up and get caught off guard. Hillary is so frazzled by Barack's momentum that she's choosing her words too carefully.
Go Obama!

Chris   February 21st, 2008 8:58 pm ET

Does anyone know why Clinton has to answer the questions first? This seems to be a disadvantage for her, giving Obama more time to plan and rebut.

Dan from MA   February 21st, 2008 8:58 pm ET

He agree's with everything she says!

Russ Block   February 21st, 2008 8:58 pm ET

Hillary is in a no win situation. She needs to be more aggressive but it has hurt her when she has been more aggressive in the past.

Bill   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Give us a Clinton Obama ticket!

Reagan Pugh   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I don't know, it seems like Clinton has the upper hand. She's led every issue and though Obama normally is the best communicator, she is talking solutions while he is talking ideas.

Mel   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Now why is it when Clinton speaks Obama then agrees with her and then says what's wrong with her plan but offers nothing for his plan? shouldn't the moderators be pushing for more distinctive answers rather then repeating what Clinton already said with different words? And why does he keep going off the subject?

J.W.   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Clinton's strategy in her negative political ads has been to draw the contrast between her record and Obama's. But all of the polls have shown that this is an ineffective strategy. People are compelled by Obama's aura, his charisma, his chumminess. These are qualities that Hillary simply does not possess, even though she is a policy wonk. Even if she wins the arguments in this debate, he still wins on the basis of his personality.

Phil   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Clinton throws the first punch....

Ed   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

The only action he has taken that is obvious is the plagiarism that has taken place. Have we been duped? Not at all. Because of Youtube Americans can find the truth without having newspapers' endosements.

-30-   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

So much for the pundits who predicted Hillary would come out swinging tonight.

Nick in Las Vegas   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

She should challenge him to a spelling bee.

Johnathon   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Well lets see there is a big difference between Clinton (Law) 35 years politicial, wife of President Clinton which we had good years during, can take on the economy, against Obama (Law) 3 years in politics with no real experience on the economy, yes he might unite but we might go broke doing it.

Adam   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Let's not forget that at the end of the day, this is about uniting the democratic party around solving the problems of the American people. Sometimes, seeing a FIGHT is not the best thing for an election in NOVEMBER!

Sue   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I agree...they are definitely into pleasantly reflecting each other this evening. Odd.

Kim in Columbus   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Obama is talking of unifying, yet he's the biggest fake I've ever seen. Oh wait, I'm a college student so I should be supporting him, right?

Kevin Zelko   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

DID he just say, "I have the endorsement of all major newspapers in the states of Texas"!!!!!!

Obama 2008

JayCeezy   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Good point, Hillary is filibustering, eating up time by saying nothing. "Yes, we can agree that words are important, words mean something. But action also has meaning, and my record. blah blah blah balh..."

Ronald in B.R.,La   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I disagree Bill. It appears that Clinton is preoccupied with discrediting Obama's style and frankly pandering to the audience. Obama, on the other hand, is doing what pundits such as yourself suggest that does, speak more on policy.

lloyd williams   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

It was over for Hillay in New Hampshire. She cannot cry at every primary anymore. It is over and no one will cry her a river.

jennifer   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

agreed. personally i hope she doesn't, though. i don't trust the woman almost as much as i don't like her.

Jason   February 21st, 2008 8:56 pm ET

I think that is funny....If she attacks him everyone will attack her for it...She is trying to stand up for her issues and experience..He looks little next to her. Writing down what she says, repeating it, and saying nothing new....When in doubt attack Washington

rockinsteve   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

She will not attack. After all, who might he choose for VP?

N

Jeff Shepherd   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

You know, Bill,

I'll point out one difference here. Hillary Clinton possess a smirk, not a smile on her face.

Murali Sampath   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Correct! So far both of them seem to be courting each other! No fist fights nor you-hit-me-first attacks!

But, we want to see those fireworks.

Jim   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Is she waiting for the right opportunity???

JenniferJ   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

He just got her! Game over!

Lynn In St. Louis   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

If Hillary Cinton "attacks" Obama the media will NAIL her. She's in a no win situation as far as I'm concerned.

Heidi   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

How come I keep getting kicked off the blog when I have something positive to say about Clinton?

Ben   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

I agree...Clinton is not doing enough to pick up the momentum she needs.

Steve Jones   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

He seems to be playing not to lose.

JenniferJ   February 21st, 2008 8:55 pm ET

She tried to take a dig at him with the Chris Matthews interview. He didn't take the bait. Good job.

Sylvia   February 21st, 2008 8:54 pm ET

here it comes....

matthew   February 21st, 2008 8:54 pm ET

Actions speak louder than words, Senator Obama.

So true. So true.

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