February 23, 2008
Posted: 03:06 PM ET

ALT TEXT

Clinton is upset with two mailers the Obama campaign is sending out in Ohio. (Photo credit: AP)

CINCINNATI (CNN) – Sen. Hillary Clinton, needing wins in delegate-rich Texas and Ohio to overtake Sen. Barack Obama in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination, ramped up her criticism of Obama Saturday, accusing his team of negative campaign tactics "straight out of Karl Rove's playbook."

Clinton addressed two mailings the Obama campaign distributed in Ohio — one that lambasts her position on the North American Free Trade Agreement, which her husband, former President Bill Clinton, signed into law, and another that criticizes her proposed health-care plan.

"I have to express my deep disappointment — he is continuing to send false and discredited mailings with information that is not true to the voters of Ohio," she said, shaking the mailings to punctuate her remarks.

The NAFTA mailer accuses Clinton of switching her position on the trade agreement, saying the senator from New York was a "champion" for NAFTA while first lady, but now opposes it.

The mailer on health care was "reminiscent of the health insurance industry's attack on what we tried to do the last time we went after universal health care," Clinton said. It says her proposal would force everyone to buy health insurance, whether they could afford it or not, a charge Clinton vehemently denied.

"Sen. Obama knows it is not true that my plan forces people to buy insurance even if they can't afford it," she said.

The mailers are "blatantly false and yet he continues to spend millions of dollars perpetuating falsehoods. That is not the new politics that the speeches are about," she said. "It is not hopeful; it is destructive."

She added, "Shame on you, Barack Obama — it is time that you ran a campaign consistent with your messages in public. That is what I expect from you. Meet me in Ohio and let's have a debate about your tactics and your behavior in this campaign."

Obama spokesman Bill Burton denied Clinton's assertions that the mailers were false.

Full story  

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Georgia Voter   February 23rd, 2008 7:04 pm ET

CNN,

I cannot understand why you keep deleting my posts and you would publish racist posts from someone like that 'Mad In Texas' jerk!!!!

Anyway,

I will try to post it again.

Hillary the truth hurts! You did support NAFTA! You did say that you would go after people's wages for healthcare! America is over you Hillary!!!! The truth of the matter is, you thought that you were owed the White House, and you are not owed anything!!! I know people that have said that if you win the nomination, they'd vote for McCain. I will not go that far! I would never vote for "100 year McCain" who came out and said that he hopes another leader would die, but I hope that you do not get the nomination and continue the same politics of Washington!

ASJ   February 23rd, 2008 7:03 pm ET

HRC is loosing her mind
maybe it's time for her to take a seat and watch OBAMA

HRC she's the definition of Liers

bantou   February 23rd, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Hillary is quite desperate , as she's running out of time and states to reverse Obama's momentum. She'll say just about anything at this time, pouncing on everything that could potentially hurt Obama. Xerox, speeches, plagiarism, you name it. The plagiarism thing is funny because we all know that politicians, including Hillary herself, get fed a lot of what they say out there, so why criticize your opponent on this issue. Simply silly and desperate, and no one is buying. Just focus on your own message Hillary, cause I'm tired already of you talking about Obama.

George Robinson   February 23rd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

My guess is she's trying to impress some superdelegates who turned their back on her because of her negative campaign. But is the alleged outrage appropriate? After all, these mailers have been around for a while and even been analysed by factcheck dot org. They don't even come close to what the Billary campaign has come up with during the last couple of months.

Nick   February 23rd, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Finally, and I hope not to late.
Somebody has to take a better look at this big bubble called "Change", and the rhetoric's of speaking a lot, and saying nothing.
Go Hillary you are the winner.

Derrick, Washington State   February 23rd, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Shame On You Hillary…..Shame On You!

What a disgusting, wrong, dishonest, and dirty political hit job.

Jay   February 23rd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Typical, she is really showing her desperation now. I'm going to laugh when she doesn't do so well in Texas and Ohio. Stop being blind everything in those mailers is true. Obama confronted her on it at the last debate an she couldn't answer. Now she wants to compare him to Karly Rove? Just sad give it up already Hillary, stop crying admit defeat already.

cjbd32   February 23rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Hillary's "healthcare" plan is tantamount to a life tax, whereby she taxes people for living in the United States. I have checked her website, I have listened to her speeches and I have yet to see how she plans to make the healthcare she is promoting so "affordable". She accuses Obama of spouting rhetoric and of lulling Americans into a false sense of hope, however, her "specific" plan is not all that specific. I feel like if it is not free then it is truly not the "universal" she is representing it to be, because only free healthcare should be mandated. A disillusioned millionairess, she is in no way connected to the people and has no idea of how hard people work. She has made comments alluding to the fact that there are a vast majority of people who make "75,000.00″ a year.. and who can afford healthcare yet choose not to purchase it… and therefore they should be mandated… hmnnn… income is not as relevant as it may seem unless you are subtracting the sum of a person's total debt from it… the financial aid officer told me that by the time I graduate from school.. I will need to make at least 70,000.00 a year to pay back 1500 a month in school loans… the last thing I need to worry about is another health care bill or even worse garnished wages…

Also, if she doesn’t plan on forcing people to purchase health care… then maybe she should not use the term mandate..

PS… Hillary you are not a good actress and you did not just see these flyers… they have been out for weeks… but nice way to start drama. Just what we need… More drama from the Clintons

Main Entry: mandate
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Forms: man•dat•ed; man•dat•ing
: to make mandatory or required

Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law, © 1996 Merriam-Webster, Inc.

BaROX   February 23rd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

After a devasting defeat in the Potomac Primaries she challenged "Meet me in Texas!". Now after insufferable losses in another round of states(WI and HI), surging of national support to match hers, and Texas slipping through her fingertips, she stages the next showdown with "Meet me in Ohio"??

Obama she claim "Meet me in Denver" as he rides his way to the nomination.

ww-New York   February 23rd, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Oh please, she knew of these ads and sent ads about Obama as well!
she needs to tell the "truth" for once the problem is not the ad. It's the fact she knows her past support of NAFTA is a turn off for those in Ohio and Texas. Well guess what my husband is from MO and he didn't support her for the same reason.

But think of this:
Hillary can parade her record as it relates to first lady "35 years of experience and "I've been tested". However, if it's something Bill did wrong or made a mistake, she states "It wasn't me"!!! talk about double standards!! She never stops!!!

victor   February 23rd, 2008 5:07 pm ET

This is not the temperament we need for the next commander in chief . If you cannot stand the heat, then stay out of the kitchen. I have to say Hillary you just lost my vote.

phil Geffen   February 23rd, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Hillary - please stop the whining… geeez grow up. This is big league politics and Obama has stated the facts clearly.

Nafta was signed by your husband Bill and you supported it… and you have not explained how everyone will have health insurance.. what if they wish to opt-out? can they?

Outraged - please.

and stop with the standing ovation - that was for both candidates after the conclusion of a great debate. geeez.

TRUTH HURTS   February 23rd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

I guess sometimes the truth hurts…DONT BE SO ANGRY because your losing. That doesnt help the democratic party. HILLARY THE VICTIM. She's just angry because her campaign spend $94,000 on sandwhiches.

David Jones   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

she is trying to play a victim here; she said meet me in Texas, Obama met her in Texas and won the debate fair and square…

she started this dirty mailings in Winsconsin and now Obama is dishing out same

She called Obama "a change we can xerox", and but when she is called out on her changing positions on NAFTA, Billary is crying foul!

Now she is saying meet me in Ohio; well, Obama is going to clobber you on the side of your head in Ohio, because all the charges in the mailer are TRUE!!!

Billary, PUHLEEEASE, stand for what you believe in - you voted for Iraq war, you want a mandated or forced health care, your supported NAFTA trade deals that outsource our jobs overseas!!!
Dont change your positions just to win an election!

GO OBAMA!!!!

LeaningObama   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Hillary's campaign has known about the mailer in question for some time, and anyone with HBO on demand can verify it: in the 02/01/08 episode of HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher Kim Gandy, president of N.O.W. and Clinton supporter / campaigner mentions the mailer, saying the Obama campaign "has sent out a mailer that is the literal image of the Mary and Louise ad", going on at length about its contents. I did a double-take when Hillary said that she was shown the mailer 'in the crowd today'. Her campaign is just grasping at straws ( remember plagiarism ) and she is the one playing dirty - just not very well. That she goes along with these tactics, being chummy with Obama at the debate and putting on this act today is Washington at its most blatantly double-faced.

Jim   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Obamamorons why do you not research the differences. She will give tax and other incentives to help people who can not afford the plan to help them. The millions that Obama leaves out will not get the plan so that they can try to get a free ride and let the rest of us pay for them. He has admitted that would happen and therefore supports a penalty for those that need health care but did not choose to participate. She deals with not participating right up front and he wants to deal with it later.

Bill is the one that signed NAFTA after Bush 41 got it going. She admits it is not being handled correctly and wants to have it reviewed and corrected.

As far as the debate Campbell kept cutting her off so how could she say very much as she was very forceful in keeping the policy parts of the plan front and center.

Mike B   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Let's see if we understand all of this now……Clinton attacked Obama on Healthcare vigorously in the last debate and in her ads currently running. But she says Democrats should not attack each other on Healthcare???? Sounds like double talk???? Clinton and her camp attacked Obama about using lines from a support, friend and camaing co-chair, even calling it plagiarism. Almost everyone outside of the Clinto team has came out and siad it was clearly not plagiarism but the Clinton hit squad continues to spin it that way. At the same time her campaign was flotaing the John Edwards themes of Populism as her own, basically stealing Edwards message and not crediting him for it. Now she complains about unfair campaign tactics????? Bill Clinton was out playing the Race Card in South Carolina, insulting African Americans and trying to stir up white voters.
Now the Clinton is outraged over a few ad mailers that Obama's team is using???? So much for going out gracefully and trying to unify the Democrats going into the fall. The gloves are off and the real teeth and dark hearts of the Clinton team is out in the open once again. We have another new Hilary Clinton personna coming and this was will not play well. Somebody should step and and stop her now. The evil and mean Hilary will never help her in this campaign.

Mike
Alabama

Daniel C   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

This is Hillary reacting to the opinion that she took it too easy on him during the debate. She read some polling data and must have figured out that she has to act tougher on Obama now. Those mailers have been out for weeks now. Are we supposed to believe that she woke up this morning and found those slipped under her door? No.

Concerned Citizen, IN   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

This is not an attack ad or a negative campaign tactic. Obama is clearly distinguishing his plan from hers as he did during the debates.

Given part of her plan is to REQUIRE Americans to have health insurance, doesn't that mean you have to have it regardless of affordability or you face fines?

It is Obama's duty to point out the differences since all of the Clinton supports seem to think he has no policy behind his speeches. His health care plan will work to make it more affordable and have a buy-in system for Americans, but will NOT require you to have your own insurance except for your children. I think that is a reasonable difference between the two.

And to those remarks about childishness, lets not forget Clinton calling him out for plagarizing his national campaign co-chair who told him to use the material and said after she pointed it out that it was no big deal. All of that refuting evidence, and she still felt the need to bring it up at the TX debate.

Now riddle me this Clinton supporters. Many people say Obama has no accomplishments. Fine. Tell me then what she has done in her 35 years of public service. Please refrain from touting things her husband accomplished while in office.

I also do not think her smirk was appropriate in her closing statement in the TX debate when she was reminding America that she stayed with her husband who had an extra-marital affair in the oval office then lied about it to the American people. Nothing funny about that at all my friends. Is that the kind of moral value we can expect in another Clinton White House?

JoAnne   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Hey Hillary - what about those false flyers you sent out in IA and NH about Obama not being for women's choice? What about the robocalls in SC that said that John Edwards was working with lobbyists? What about your attacks on Obama's healthcare plan, saying it wasn't "universal" after you said in a debate in August that it was? Hillary you should be ashamed of yourself! You are unethical and dishonest. You are the one who is destroying the Democratic party! As a woman I am disgusted with your behavior. The information in the flyers is true. They are the same flyers that were sent out to Wisconsin. All of a sudden they're not true. You underestimate the American people. We will not fall for your hypocrisy!

Pamela   February 23rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

GIVE IT UP HILLARY!! YOU RELEASED IT WHEN YOU PUBLICIZED YOUR PLANS AND YOU CONFIRMED IT IN THE DEBATE IN AUSTIN LAST WEEK. WHY WOULD YOU REQUIRE US TO HAVE YOUR INSURANCE AND GARNISH OUR WAGES IF WE DON'T? THAT IS SO UNFAIR!

CLINTON SUPPORTERS! GET YOURSELF TOGETHER. HER AND HER HUSBAND ALSO SUPPORTED NAFTA. STOP NEGLECTING OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS RACE. HE IS THE CANDIDATE THAT WE NEED TO CHANGE THIS ENTIRE NATION.

CLINTONS UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE WILL SURELY BE UNIVERSAL BUT AT A GREAT COST! PLEASE DO YOUR RESEARCH!

pd4hillary   February 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Obama=Bush–all rhetoric with no meaning
So much for changing how business is done in Washington. Same old Washinton political tactics that I guess he's not so above it. So much for Jesus Obama!

R=$4BO2help McCain   February 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Rove and company are about to be exposed to alot of investigations about erased White House emails, abuse of power and on and on.
There is one way they can avoid the trouble, help nominate Obama, then trounce him in the General Election.

Jackie   February 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I remember very clearly that Hillary supported NAFTA. She made speeches supporting it, for crying out loud. I attended one of them. Now she's denying it? What the heck is wrong with this lady?
Talk about inconvenient truths!

so   February 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

If in fact these flyers are the same that have been mailed earlier, then why doesn't Obama make Change as he claims to be representing and Correct/CHANGE his flyers to represent the facts re:NAFTA, failure to have corrected the record in his mailers as the newspaper did is a Dishonest Tactic which his team and Obama after his free press confrence to respond he claims are accurate (is this a little lie or a whopper?) I'm sure he knows when his flyer were mailed. Health care, he sould let Clinton present her own enforcement mechanisims and not present his garnisment of wages plan as hers. If you have children or Don't, under his plan watch out where your wages (Garnished) will go to pay for all minors. BEWARE of WHAT you ASK for, you may get it!!!

jess   February 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Okay,

She supported NAFTA. She said so in her book.

She supported the war in Iraq. She said so with her vote.

She has proven she does not have the judgement to be president. She has proven this over and over again.

Latinos of Texas for Obama   February 23rd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

What's the matter Hillary? Don't like the taste of your own medicine, huh?
You started it and now you have to pay for it. I hope that the rest of Texas, OH, and PA see through your phony smile and vote for a man with dignity!

And for the record, everything he said in the ads is true!

Adam   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Go HIllary! Tell em how it is. Hillary 08

Anonymous   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

A friend just told me "NOW WE KNOW WHY BILL WORKED LATE AT NIGHT"!

bernice   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

P.S.

We need…..strenght! Hillary showed weakness when she went with the status quo….and voted for the War! she signed a death warrent for our children….Obama voted …no! against the War!…

He should Strenght! and did not go with the status quo!

I wish Hillary would stop! the acting…ie: "tears"…"emotional" breakdowns…we need a strong! leader….she's…too!…"emotional"!

sabrina   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

i believe that northamericans should have a black president as obama, who is able to look beyond the facts..because, he is black….as black as many other americans….
i also think that he can only govern for northamerican people, not for latinamerican community…because he cannot understand us.
but there is a problem with him, i do not know whether he will be let govern.
about hillary…she is gorgeous….and a real american women….
from argentina….i love you all…god bless you!!!!

Jeremiah Gould   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

The 2 Democratic candidates appear to want increased moneys
tossed at public health. But, neither has given any anticipated costs
involved. Just how heavily do they plan to go after the wealth of U.S.
citizens?

Frank   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

My parents always warned be to cautious of "smooth talkers"; that's all Obama is. He delivers a very glowing, inspiring rhetorical speech. But he's all talk, there's no substance. It looks like the people are being duped by a "smooth talker".

Palmer Cox III   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Hillary is desperate. She talks about OB and his naivety but that is what we need, something fresh and new. Her past and her integrity came into question with her husband Bill but has OB delve into her misdeeds? No. If she happens to win the presidency our country will be in worst trouble. The bible also states that woman shall not have authority over the man. God will defintely no longer bless us.

sarra   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

that is so sad and see the amture side of Obama if he is confidence he will be elected why is the negative attack ? wait and see on the fall when the rep tear him up he don't have any chance shame on dems when they got a chance to claim white house they threw it to rep.

joe   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Obama is also going to force parents to buy for their children. Even if they can't afford it. So far all those parents who are having a hard time paying the bills expect it to get harder when you can't afford health insurance for your kids. Don't complain about one forcing people to pay without complaining about the other.

Jay   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I don't really see why Clinton's in an uproar; especially since what Obama says about her flip-flopping views on NAFTA and such are true. The more she makes a big deal of it, the more people realize that she was for NAFTA but is now against it solely for the sake of her campaign.

But if she wants to keep high-lighting her weaknesses and boo-hoo'ing because Obama is pointing out her errors in judgement, then let her do what makes her happy.

Fed Up   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I'm just glad someone - I don't care who - is urging/publishing a discussion of the facts.

Most of Hillary's voting record (Bill's too, for that matter) and the issues they support are abyssmal at best, terrifying at worst. In numerous speeches she has said that she would "garnish wages, if need be" in order to put her "universal health care" program in place. Garnish wages? That's not "universal," that's communism. Then there is NAFTA, which anyone with good memory function recalls both Clintons supported vehemently. NAFTA, which has increased Latin American trade corruption ten-fold. Plus their is the fact that while a senator she voted FOR the Patriot Act; she voted to read your emails, tap your phones, etc. And of course there her archive, which she and Bill refuse to release to the public - and now her tax reports too. All of this is public information, readily available via a good Google search. For all these reasons and many more, I have never understood the hype about her. It seems so Orwellian. I don't even really understand how she can run as a Democrat, but that says much about how much our party has sold itself - spinelessly - hook line and sinker.

I don't think Obama's ad is such a shameful action, considering all of the immature allegations Hillary as shot his way. I'm still waiting on someone to call her on all the so-called "plagiarism," in her campaign. "It takes a village," Maya Angelou. And the direct Edwards rip-offs. Also, it would be nice if someone would ask her to spell out her 35 years of service. Does sleeping next to an American president for 8 years while he is in office constitutue "experience'? In that case, all the wives of politicians should take over.

DJW   February 23rd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Ask Jaunita Brodderick, Kathleen Willey, Paula Jones, etc. …………………………………………………………………….
how it feels to be be lied about. Chickens are finally coming home to roost .

Ginger - Canada   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

After watching all the debates and continuing news about the candidates, it appears that everyone wants to treat Mr.Obama with kid gloves and he gets away with saying what he wants but everything Ms. Clinton says gets scrutinized and repeated over and over again.

Alex H   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Umm… it IS true. Hillary's plan removes the American people's right to CHOOSE, an American principle for a free society. Hillary does say there will be grants that people can apply for if they cannot afford it but who is to say who can and cannot afford it! Everyone having healthcare is an incredible thing to accomplish but if it removes the right to choose between, say, food or healthcare I sure hope they're not FORCED into paying for healthcare.

And how is pointing out an IMPORTANT flaw in someone's policies or ideas going against his change platform. If I recall correctly, you STOLE his "Yes We Can" platform in Wisconsin when you released a mailer that attacked HIS healthcare plan.

I smell a hypocrite…

Mike   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Look at the picture she is holding up. At best, this is VERY MISLEADING by the Obama campaign, when other countries like Germany and Canada that have universal health coverage do not really have this problem.

Look at the facts - there are a lot of people out there making $50 - $75 k who would be perfectly able to afford the types of insurance that these campaigns are offering. Under Obama's plan, if you don't feel like it, you don't have to get it. Then later when you get sick, you do. How does he plan to force THEM to pay for it, if this is such a big problem?

What makes King Obama so great that he does not have to defend his plans down to the last detail? He can just say "No war in Iraq, and health care for all" and we are supposed to dance in the streets? His plans are actually much weaker and more naive than Hillary's (on health care and foreign policy).

Kimberly in Texas   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

What about Hillary's mailers…always the victim!
Poor Hillary….

Obama 08!

John   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Chris. You're as wrong as they get - an evident sign of someone brain-washed by the obamatron. Her plan states that health-care will be available for everyone. Not only be available but everyone WILL HAVE health care. If you can't afford it then it will be provided for you. Obama however, will leave a lot of americans who can't afford health care without it.

Goodheart   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

FINALLY, Obama is getting called out for his… say one thing, do another campaign. He's just like all politicians, no different. There is no question these direct mail pieces are completely false, yet his campaign sent them out opening to close the gap in Ohio. By the way, Hillary has always fought for healtcare. Obama is doing it because it's politically convenient. If that's your issue, don't count on him changing anything. It takes more than just words to get real change.

ben of Nc   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

NAFTA AND IRAQ ARE TWO ISSUES HILL AINT HAPPY ABOUT.

Dante Young   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton is charging Mr Obama out of desperation.
She've realized that her opponent (that's the way she call Mr Obama)
did very well last Tuesday and she is losing ground.
I am following the candidates each and every day on "CNN" and Mrs Clinton has been the one who has tried to diminish Mr Obama's
intelligence.
This complain is of the tactical nature.
Come on Mrs Clinton, people are not stupid is very clear to me that
Mr Obama is the best representative between the two parties.

R from WA   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Having watched the debates and followed the campaigns pretty closely, I'm not convinced that there's any information in the mailings (as represented here) contradictory to Hillary's record as it stands. If she's going to make this kind of emotional charge against Obama (and a comparison to Karl Rove is a serious charge) she really needs to go to her record and bring out her health care plan and show us how Obama's campaign is misrepresnting her. All she does (in this article) is deny policies (esp. her stance on health care) that she has espoused on the campaign trail and in debates. If she can't correct this apparent contradiction and show us how she won't force people to buy health care if they can't afford it, than this is just an opportunity for her to project the image of a strong confident leader and get some free advertising for her campaign.

JD   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Second time in three days she has touted her complete hypocrisy! Within thirty mintues of accusing Obama of plagarism, she plagarizes Edwards; after the infamous "Barack's plan leaves 15 million Americans uninsured" mailer in Wisconsin, she has the hypocritical audacity to go on national tv and balk at a mailer of Obama's that simply turns the tables on her.

That being said, I am disappointed that Barack went negative like this. He had the lead, he has the momentum; he really didn't need to do this.

Matthew   February 23rd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

I don’t understand what is so “shameful” about these mailings. The fact of the matter is Sen. Clinton’s proposed plan for health care DOES require ALL Americans to obtain health insurance of some form. She also WAS a proponent of NAFTA during the presidency of her husband and HAS changed her position on that subject now. Her campaign felt entitled to “expose discrepancies” in Sen. Obama’s campaign when he used political rhetoric from some of his campaign supporters. Why should the Obama camp not outline these (in my opinion much more pertinent) caveats of Sen. Clinton’s policies?

Sen. Clinton’s continued belittlement of Sen. Obama via her claims that his campaign is all empty promises fails to impress me. Sen. Obama’s blueprint for America (available on his website) does outline substantive policies that he has developed.

Furthermore, I personally believe it to be both arrogant and ignorant of Sen. Clinton to claim that she has it all figured out, and that her plan is the paramount solution. NOBODY has all the answers to the problems that America faces today. The most important characteristic of the next president is going to be their ability to work together with the best minds America has to offer to reach solutions.

I don’t want someone who is “ready to be commander-in-chief on day one.” Someone like that is far too eager to become a “leader.” Once someone gets it in their head that they’re a “leader” the opinions of everyone else fade away and they indignantly thumb their nose at 30% approval ratings as they continue risking the lives of Americans all over the world for the benefit of no one, whilst they run the economic and intellectual future of this country into the ground back home.

Give me a president who is cognizant of the fact that they are in office not to be a “leader,” but to be a REPRESENTATIVE in a government that is of, for, and by the people.

Give me Barack Obama.

Captain   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

I'd say it fair game. If she i going to attack Obama for "presumably" leaving out 15 million (up from 13 million GASP!) people, then the flyer i fair game.

Lee   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Obama is a real candidate of change - yeah whatever.

Hillary is going to open up a can of whoop as on him. As the front runner this was a bad move by Obama

he is a politican who is selling snake oil. For the people who vote for Obama I hope you get what you deserve.

And for the Latinos - you should listen to the state of the black union and see if you think Obama will still have your interests if he is elected - no my friends - he will be the president for the black people - white people should watch this state of the black union address - your WHITE eyes would sure be opened!
Vote for Hillary.

EcoProf   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Sen. Clinton instead of complaining and whining, give real, rock-solid reasons why you'd be a better president. When everyone counted Obama and McCain out, they weren't throwing temper tantrums. I respect you but you're looking more and more greedy….

Senkump   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

It is shame on you Hillary ! You are a true Chameleon changing your color everytime for personal gains. You are loosing this race for sure ..Obama on the raise.

Jen, Gainesville   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Hillary can not run away from the truth. Look at the substance of the statements in the mailer, not the semantics.

something-E   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Americans don't need a bitter, angry and "Desparate White House Wife" pointing her finger at anyone in this country yelling "Shame on you!" like she is a bad nanny. None of us deserve to be treated like naughty two year olds just because we disagree with her antics of the past and her currect nasty campaign.

We need real leadership not hysteria. Luckily Obama is wise enough to rise up and respond positively against her nasty accusations and return us to discussions about real solutions to our problems. He can take this country into the future and not drag us back to past however much we glorify it in our imaginations.

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt

indiegirl   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Obama used these exact same fliers before Super Tuesday. Strange that Clinton just saw them today. I guess she has a lot of paperwork on her besk. Obama mentioned the mandates during the debate, she didn't fight then. Clinton couches her plan as Universal Health Care. Mandating people to buy things is only universal consumerism.

William Showman   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

THANK YOU HILLARY=ADDRESS THIS

I am so dismayed at Obama and his delusional voters. Healthcare is one of our most sacred and primary issues as democrats. we have fought too long and hard to see this as a reality and all of those voting for Obama are paving the way for the corporations and other special interests to win yet again. Obama's plan does virtually nothing to limit the hardships that everyday working people find erroneous about our current healthcare system. Regardless of how Obama likes to make it sound in a flowery emotion filled speech, it amounts to "more of the same". A healthcare system designed by Obama will leave out millions of people who will have to beg and defraud to get quality health care. Please think and look at this as a campaign choosing your next president–not choosing an "American Idol" candidate. Obama lacks substance!!!!!!!

Bonnie O., Raleigh, NC   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Smacks of desparation, old girl. Get real or go home.

Yes We Can.

Obama '08!

cj from seattle   February 23rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Shame on you, Hillary…
For trying to destroy the party.
True Blue? Yeah right.

matt   February 23rd, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Why is Hillary blaming Obama for saying the truth. She says there was never a history of democrats attacking another democrat. Maybe she should consider that infact she was the one that was negatively attacking Obama. Everyone knows this. Now that Obama has put the flyers with the TRUTH, she wants to deny it. She wrote those words in her book, and in fact she supported NAFTA. NAFTA deal came into effect when Bill Clinton (her husband) was president. The American people are not stupid to believe her that she didn't support it. I am from Ohio, I know the job losses because of NAFTA. I am voting for Obama, and so are everyone in my family. Also, my friends & out union is voting for Obama. I hope Obama brings all the evidence to the next debate, so there is no way Hillary can deny it. Also regarding health care, she did say that she will go after wages. Health care cannot be enforced on people. If people have the money to afford for health care, obviously they're gonna get it. So, Hillary must accept the fact that what Obama flyer says is infact the TRUTH. I am sure millions of americans (democrats, independents, and also republicans), blacks, whites, lations, asians, everyone knows that this is TRUE. Everyone in Ohio knows that Obama's flyer says the TRUTH. Thanks for reading my comments. Thanks to CNN for posting my comments.

Mark   February 23rd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

On the contrary, "Shame on you, Hilary Clinton", for saying some thing yesterday and its contrary today. You supported NAFTA before, and now you blast it in order to get American workers' votes.

Tyler in Raleigh   February 23rd, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Ummm… Bill Clinton signed NAFTA into law, and Clinton supported it. Just like she supported and voted for No Child Left Behind the war in Iraq, all policies she now speaks against.

Hillary Clinton wants a MANDATE, which means you MUST buy healthcare… no choices (isn't choice a democratic ideal?). She has stated she would go after wages of those that did not pay for healthcare…. that sounds like forceing people to buy health care to me.

Sorry Hillbilly, you and Slick Willy with your "shame on you" and finger wagging need to stop treating us as stupid children that need your protection. Adults can make choices, government should be there to protect our right to those choices NOT to force us to do things.

The Clintons are either flip floppers, will say anything to get elected or likely both. She is basically against everything she says she leared form experience. Well I dont want someone ready on day 1 that will realize that they are wrong on day 365.

D. Williams   February 23rd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Cintonian Rhethoric. Every one that has reviewed both of their health plans have called the differences minimal yet she has gone after him continuously. If I am taking what she said is true, the mailing are no different than what he said in the debate in fact not as bad. In the debate he quoted her as saying that those who did not purchase healthcare she would go after their wages. She didn't even address that! SHE SAID NOTHING! And now we are expected to believe that she is outraged. Really Hillary?

Adr   February 23rd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

She has finally lost it! I never thought a "vetted" politician, with 35 years of experience in politics, could lose it so bad in public. She obviously has trouble deciding which personality she wants to display on any given day: one day she is nice and feels honored to compete against Obama and the next she is comparing him with Bush and raising hell about some pamphlets that have been around since Iowa. How much can you trust someone like that?

And the funny thing, she wants to meet Obama to discuss his behavior. I guess it''s her maternal instinct shinning through finally but the tone is highly inappropriate for a presidential primary.

Julie, Binghamton, NY   February 23rd, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Obama supporters- these ads are complete LIES! You'll believe anything he says, won't you?!? Is this the accountability Obama is talking about- just believe everything he says? It doesn't matter that she wants to reduce costs and then subsidize insurance for poor people- you ignore it because Obama ignores it! You people are insane- you're worse than the people who hide their heads in a hole and pretend Bush didn't destroy this country!

Paul   February 23rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Hillary is the last person who should be complaining of playing the dirty politics game, especially after that very disgraceful xerox comment the other night which she followed up ripping off speeches from her husband and John Edwards!
These mailers being sent out do in fact contain the facts! Hillary was a champion of NAFTA, this is all on record. As is the fact that her health care plan will forcer Americans to buy it or face getting money taken out of their wages, she admitted this herself in a past debate.

In fact it is Hillary's tactics that are similar to Karl Rove's. It's like lets point fingers at China for torture and human rights violations and hope no one looks behind the curtain and see we are just as guilty. It's a shame, not only is she destroying Bill Clinton's legacy with her cheap tactics, but she is taking the Democratic Party down with her.

Anonymous   February 23rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

DESPERATE HILLARY……..SHAME ON YOU HILLARY WATCH YOUR OWN DEBATE…TRUTH HURTS

Anonymous   February 23rd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

There is a difference between the health care plans of Obama and Clinton. Obama has continuously stated that you cannot force people to buy a health care insurance policy. In my view If you do enforce it then you are imposing a health tax as Clinton proposes. If you don't and you would want everybody having a policy then you need to reduce the price tag to make it affordable as Obama has proposed.

Clinton has vented the idea of subsidized health policy purchases, making her plan almost equal to Obama's, but with an enforcement clause. It is therefore correct that "The Plan of Clinton forces people to buy insurance".

If this is a hot issue for Clinton, she should have been straight during the debate in Texas. Her additional comment that "he continues to spend millions of dollars perpetuating falsehoods" cannot be uphold.

The NAFTA issue: she was once for it, but now, possibly to win the nomination, she is against it, so it seems. The war in Iraq: She was once for the war, but now against. I think that nothing is wrong to make such statements because it describes how it was and how it is. Again, her comment that "he [Obama] continues to spend millions of dollars perpetuating falsehoods" cannot be uphold.

So what's wrong then? Clinton has not the ability to inspire, has not the charisma that crosses party boundaries. I thinks she knows it, but for obscure reasons she seems to be forced to go against the will of the people who have voted already and utilize silly attacks that have no bearing.

Anonymous   February 23rd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Well this is a glaring instance when Obama's tactics of the so called "CHANGE" is revealed.

dennis st. pete, florida   February 23rd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

isn't it a shame the americans never learned a lesson after voting for bush a second time. now they want to elect obama

Santayana2008   February 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Hillary…it appears that the truth does not matter these days. Don't expect too much traction from these kinds of things. Obama has no shame.

Eli   February 23rd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Whoa.. I think Hillary Clinton has lost her cool. What is she, Bi-Political? She seemed gracious and said she was "honored" to share the stage with Obama in the Debate, now she seems like she is screaming "you're a lying, Karl Rove emulating empty suit" less than 48 hours later… Does this strike anyone else as desperate? I for one, question the stability of someone who can go from placid to screaming mad in less than 48 hours.. Do we really want someone with such unsettling outbursts in charge of the "Nuclear Football"??

Javier   February 23rd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

She's trying to make it seem like he is using dirty tactics by mentioning Rove. The things stated on the mailer are not vehemently false as she points out.

She is doing the exact same dirty tricks she is complaining about by pulling Rove's name and being overly dramatic about this.

Sean B   February 23rd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

What lies… In their first debate after John Edwars dropped out she stated that she was the "only one" for Universal Healthcare because of the fact that she would mandate it. Meaning that everyones paychecks would be garnished / Taxed to pay for it. So yes if your tryingto support a family and you only make minimum wage it could be considered an added bill. She said these things and now that Barack Obama has "Dumbed it down" she calls him a liar…. Ha…. Same old politics. you wont fool me Hillary.

Mike R   February 23rd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Poor Hillary, always the victim, isn't she?

The FACT is that Hillary's husband signed NAFTA, and YES, she was a supporter of it - 100%. The only reason she says these things now, is, well, duh, she's trying to get elected president.

And yes, she has also gotten a free ride on the TATA deal. Whay haven't we read all about that, and her involvement in bringing a company into NY that employs 10 people in NY while outsourcing over $4 billion in US jobs annually??????

I have followed Clinton for the past 5 years, knowing she would try a run for president. All of the statements in this article about her are TRUE.

chris   February 23rd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

everyhting is true that Obama said in the flyer. Check the facts, It was Bill Clinton that championed Nafta .
To Violet I say this:
It is campaign season may the best strategist win.

Former Clinton supporter   February 23rd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

WE HAVE HEARD HER SAY IT OVER AND OVER, AGAIN. NOW THAT ITS CLEAR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE DON'T WANT HER EXPERIENCE OR IDEAS, ITS A LIE. SOON SHE WILL TELL US SHE DID NOT VOTE FOR THE 100 YEAR WAR AND HER LOBBYISTS BELONG TO SOMEONE ELSE.

Roy P   February 23rd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

This was a very childish thing for Obama to do if in fact he had the lead. It is the direct result of this imature high school popularity contest he is trying to use as a political tactic. It will ruin this party. They both should only be putting out flyers with their views and plans. Totally childish.

CHRIS   February 23rd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

IT IS TRUE HILLARY GIVE IT UP YOU KNOW IT SO DO WE IT WAS BROUGHT UP IN THE DEBATE YOU SAT THERE WITH NO RESPONSE! THE TRUTH DOES HURT DONT IT

jared   February 23rd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

She's right. She won't literally force people to buy her health care plan. Instead she'll just consider "going after the wages."
This is not a false attack. What Obama said was the truth.

Bryce   February 23rd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Although this propaganda piece does bare a striking similarity to those from the health care companies that had been directed at her during her husbands tenure as President, I must admit to not being as upset by this. While I can concede that perhaps Obama's attempt at dulling Clinton's policies isn't the best course for him to take, I will say that I believe his arguments against her health care does hold water and is concrete.

However, if he truly wanted to win, I would have advised him to not attack Hilary Clinton and to continue to ride this generous wave of momentum. Why give her ammunition to play the "I'm being treated unfairly" card like she did in New Hampshire?

I still think Obama will win the nomination, but this just might end up prolonging it if Hilary is capable of spinning this the right way.

GoBama!   February 23rd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

FREE TV AD FOR BROKE HILLARY CAMPAIGN! lol

"Clinton addressed two mailings the Obama campaign distributed in Ohio"

Isn't it too late to audition for the Oscars?
Hilary doesn't seem to think so. lol

Did anyone watch the Hilary grandstanding? Funny as hell. lol

burton   February 23rd, 2008 3:41 pm ET

after all, obama was saying this during all his stumpspeeches all time. and it didnt felt for me that she was denying it in any way. why is she doing so now? Well, thouse mailings seems to have a critical reach, so that it stays in peoples minds.
Lets see how this story goes on…

JR   February 23rd, 2008 3:41 pm ET

How is this different from the ad saying "Barack Obama's healthcare plan leaves out 15 million people. Which one of these people doesn't deserve healthcare, Sen. Obama?"

It's not. She sure can dish it but can't very well take it.

Ted Curry   February 23rd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Hillary Clinton knows that no matter what happens she will not be Obama's running mate. So she will use every trick inthe book to get the sympathy of the voteing public. But little that she knows that wil not propell her to victory. The american people are not going to buy that.

Ted.

Justin   February 23rd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Keep up the psychosis, Hillary. You're doing a great job of keeping Obama's momentum going.

CRYING FOWL???   February 23rd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

HILLARY HAS BEEN PLAYING DIRTY POLICTICS ALL ALONG. I AM A HILLARY SUPPORTER BUT FAIR IS FAIR. HILLARY'S PLAN DOES CALL FOR A MANDATE OF COVERAGE. SHE STATED HERSELF THAT THE GOVERNMENT WOULD GO AFTER ONES WAGES IF THEY DID NOT PARTICIPATE. THAT MEANS GARNISHMENT.

SORRY HILLARY…YOU HAVE NOTHINGTO OCMPLAIN ABOUT. BOTH OF YOU NEED TO STOP THE ATTACKS. FIND A WAY TO UNITE TO GET THE REPUBLICAN OUT!!!

GO DEMOCRATS!!!

Texan   February 23rd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

The beginning to the end of the clinton campaign.
sometimes when people are behind, they become desperate. The clock is ticking clinton, only a couple more days until the showdown.

SI SE PUEDE
yes we can

texans for obama

John   February 23rd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Did you support your Husbands NAFTA bill YES
Has Nafta cost american jobs Yes
Do you now say NAFTA was a mistake YES
Is your healthcare Mandatory YES
Will low paid workers be forced to buy insurance YES
Will those who don't buy or cannot afford to buy have their wages garnished YES

Do you still stand by all these decisions ????

mb   February 23rd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Obama=same old lies, same old ties, same old dishonesty hiding in a dangerous disguise.

RAFi68   February 23rd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

the problem with obama is that he does not have a plan for anything at all only change and hope for the best . i can belive people are voting for this guy , i have a feeling that many will be dissapointed with him if he gets to the white house and the american people will look very stupid , that you fall for it and thank you to cnn ………for giving us obama up to the ears……

Gil - California   February 23rd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Shame on you Hillary Clinton. How dare you cry foul when your campaign has engaged in lies throughout. You and your husband are a blight on our country and I can't wait for the day you officially are gone from this race. The bright side is that your husband has tarnished his already shaky legacy in this fight and no one will ever forget it.

You said you were a partner with Bill in the White House, remember?
You claim that gives you experience to lead from day one, remember?
BILL PUT NAFTA IN PLACE, YOU WERE HIS PARTNER! YOU ARE THE ONE THAT NEEDS TO GET HER BUTT SPANKED!

Mike   February 23rd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Come on Hillary, you've played far dirtier, lied a lot more, and couldn't even stand on your own two feet so had to call in your hubby to prop up your failing abilities in a campaign.

Think about it, if you can't even handle campaigning against other Democrats without calling for help to your husband, then how in the heck will you stand up to the GOP battle machine and McCain?

Do the right thing and concede. Your "35 years of experience" is a lie and everyone knows it. Obama has more international knowledge and experience then you ever will and he has actually lived a varied life and not one with a silver spoon planted firmly in his mouth since birth.

Michael, Cleveland   February 23rd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

I saw these mailers and they do look very much alike the Republicans add of 90s which buried first attempts of healthcare reform. But let me guess: Obamaniacs will deny everything and try to blame "politics of 90s" and …. fill the blank from Obama's thin playbook. Can't say it changed my mind though: I wouldn't vote for Obama neither in primaries nor in general elections.

Matt   February 23rd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

There's nothing more Karl Rove-like than trying to steal MI and FL votes when you already agreed that they don't count. She herself said her health insurance would be mandatory, and there would be penalties for anyone who didn't pay for it. So I'm wondering why facts bother her so much? Hillary's back is against the wall, and it's obvious she is struggling to come up with something substantive to try and help her flailing campaign. Sorry Senator Clinton, too little too late.

Kokou   February 23rd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

The content is accurate Hillary. Instead of crying, you need to defend yourself. I think Obama did a good job to expose her plan before she spins her mouth on him.

Thanks,

AJ   February 23rd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Universal health care means a mandate. Hillary needs to come clean and admit that people's wages will be garnished. Hillary brags about her 35 years experience and thinks Bill's was a great president but she NOW wants to distance herself from NAFTA because it was NOT one of Bill's successes during his administration. It's not right to pick and choose what she wants to take pride in during her husband's administration.

mb   February 23rd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

It's about time Hillary took Obama to task for his underhanded tactics and his unacceptable behavior. He is a fraud and I for one want her to tell him that to his face. He thinks he is above the law, morals and ethics and can do anything and get away with it. He is not a leader, he has done nothing but blow smoke at the college kids and the black community. He has copied Clinton's issues and plagiarized his own campaign staff's words. He has ties to a well know crook and takes money from lobbyists while pretending to be a new face. He is the old face of lies and deception. You tell him Hillary. Tell everyone what a liar he is.

Bill   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

This must be part of "the great Democratic conspiracy" against the Clintons. I love the fact she is talking about Republican strategy while dressed in Nancy Reagan Red!

Is this is a taste of what she will be like during Tuesday's debate? It is her last stand, Obama has pulled even in Texas and Ohio, so what has she got to lose?

Can't wait to see Obama rebut that she WAS for NAFTA and she DID SAY she would garnish people's wages who can't afford health care.

Oh, Hillary, what a tangled web we weave . . .

Mh Amaker   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Hillary is such a hypocrite. After all the attacks she and Bill Clinton raged on Obama up until now, she has the gall to say " Shame on Who"? Searching for a new tag to hang her campaign on, she's reverted to the bitter, angry "B" which shows the real Hillary. I like the conciliatory one better.

Mh, South Carolina

Tim   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Pot calling kettle black. How many mailers came from the Clinton camp that were just as negative. The NAFTA allegations are, however, very true, and she can't deny that fact. Also, it is unknown exactly HOW Clinton intends to mandate her health policy, so maybe she should actually tell the public how she intends to enforce it.

That being said, she does have a point about how these negative attacks go against their campaign. While I am a little disappointed in Obama for stooping to her level, I can't really blame him. He has held his tongue for months while taking heat for any and everything the Clinton camp can come up with.

Come March 5th, it really won't matter anyways. I just hope that Clinton realizes that once she suspends her campaign, she has a duty to rally her followers around Obama. This is such an intense battle for the Democratic nomination, it would be a shame if the Republicans won solely because of bitter voters. Obama and Clinton are better candidates than we have had to choose from for a while, don't root against the winner just because they beat your candidate.

Danny, CA   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Both Hillary and Barak have no accomplishments in their career and thus they do not deserve to be our president. Liberals here will try to defend either of them but I believe American people know their big mouth without any substance. I am sure they will go away into the woods soon.

Eric   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

hey hillary… i'm a first time voter and wondering why you are destroying the democratic party? if you continue to find small insignificant things to criticize obama on then you are going to leave us in a pretty bad place when he runs against mccain… so thanks. for ruining my future.

Ben Kirk   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

More plagiarism by Clinton and conservative style denial by Clinton.

"Shame on you" is a common slogan of Clinton, well, Bill Clinton. This rampant attack by Hillary is as hypocritical as McCain saying he never wrote a letter on behalf of Vicki Iseman's client to the FCC.

This is an attack job better left to Rush and the rest of the right. Hillary is using yet another tactic of accusing her opponent of the very behavior she is guilty. It is so unfortunate. Hillary could be the new leader of a women's movement in the US. She could lead new and powerful women's movement that is desperately needed. She is forfeiting this desperately needed revitalization of women in this culture because she cannot seem to accept that Obama is the leader the country is yearning for, asking for, and showing up for.

It is sad to think that 10 times more people show up to support Obama than Clinton. It makes me think that Clinton is counting on Nixon's "silent majority". I wish she would show some decency in the everyday life of her campaign and not just with pretty words on stage.

Jenny   February 23rd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

She's got to be kidding. She's been spreading filth about him for weeks. She's trying to make a mountain out of a molehill because the only chance she has is for him to mess up big. And this isn't a mess up. He's right. I know she thinks her health care plan is the only one worth going for, but we have to remember that there are A LOT of people in this nation that don't like it. The best thing to do is take a more moderate approach to start out with instead of forcing mandatory health care on everyone. George Bush got in office and decided he didn't want to have to work bipartisanly. What did it do? It polarized and divided the American people. If we elect someone who can't work with the other aisle, it's going to happen all over again.

Clinton, stop playing politics and yelling on TV about something you do as well and that you knew was going on to throw off the American people.

Phil Michols   February 23rd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

There we go again. It's the 4th quarter at the 11th hour of silly season in politics. Can someone say they did not expect something like this ?

Christiane   February 23rd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

I think its another Try from her disrespect him. She said she want force all people to buy Insurance.
For real, all she do is attack Mr. Obama, this is just the Election. What will she do when she is in the white House???????
Nobody want a Candidate who always attack the other Candidate.
After all what happens Mr. Obama show her respect and acknowledge her. But she can not say congratulation to him when we win .
I think the People are tired from all this Attacks. Election should be about the People , not about attack the other Candidate.
I hope Mr. Obama wins.

Diesel   February 23rd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

These are desperation times for Billary. Shame on you Hillary and leave quietly!

Mike   February 23rd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Obama's Rovian attack ad?

This is a desperate move from a woman whose Rovian tactics have alienated countless would-be supporters in the past few months.

Rove always advises his clients to make a mockery of an opponent's strengths ("only speeches") and accuse the opponent of having the weaknesses of his client. ("distorting the record").

Shame on you, Hillary Clinton.

Leon619   February 23rd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Look whose crying now, please give me a break Sen. Clinton your the expert in misrepresenting information. Were witnessing the last couple days of her campaign folks can't wait until she is out of the spot light. McCain here we come with your express talk tour being discredited my NY Times. Should Sen. McCain been forced out of the Sneate when he dealings with folks like her in the past.

M Cohen   February 23rd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Obama's campaign seems to have an attribution problem. They do not give credit when they borrow words, yet they give credit when something is not actually a quote. Guess that's what they call, "Change you can believe in.!"

ILoveAmerica   February 23rd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Hillary wants a debate about tactics and behavior? What would that have to do with the "solutions business" she says she's in?

Bev   February 23rd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Shame on Clinton. I understand the pamphlet has been out for some time and Hillary didn't bring it up or its contents up at the Texas Debate. Other than her mild attack about plagerism she was on the whole makeing nice during the debate. She only attacks when Obama isn't there to defend himself and show wether or not her claims are true.

She claims she has experience includeing her years as first lady while her husband was President. It's we did this and we did that, not my husband did this and that. If she wants to claim the credit for what her husband did then she also has to accept the negative coments on what he did, namely signing the NAFTA agreement.

Jessie   February 23rd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Oh boy, her ship is sinking even faster. Those fliers are "spot on", so for her to highlight them is going to hurt her even further.

GO HILLARY   February 23rd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

way to go, Hill - GO AFTER HIM! stop letting him get away with underhanded tactics. fight back.

and fight back at the debate next week, too.

Liz PA   February 23rd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Just more proof that Obama will do anything and say anything to get elected. He continually steals Hillary's issues, plans, and speaking points as if they are his and receives roaring ovations. If only the poor saps listening to him realized that they are applauding Hillary's plans. With no record of real legislative accomplishments during his very brief political career, he now wants to leap-frog to the top position in the country. Skipping 17 percent of votes during his Senate career and sponsoring only one bill that became law (to promote "relief, security, and democracy in the Democratic Republic of Congo") does not give him the credentials, experience, dedication, or common sense to become president of our great nation.

Hal   February 23rd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Aah, Finally ! One for Senator Obama . Oh its on Now. She's upset that for once he's using one of her tactics of using half truth. I have to admit that's a tough one. And a good one I might add. For ever she keeps on repeating that he leaves 15 Million people out when he repeatedly says its not true. I guess what goes around comes around Miss Clinton especially that it is true that she would force everyone to buy it. Now that's one for the books , I love it !! Well done. Can't wait for the Obama Haters on this one. Ha!

ps . CNN STOP CENSORING MY PRO OBAMA MESSAGES.

GH   February 23rd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Just her latest attempt to turn the tide. She knows it's all true. She's said it herself. Desperation is not pretty or respectful. Bow out now HRC while you still have some self respect intact.

Obama '08

Byron in CA   February 23rd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

I see campaign politics are alive and well in Obama's camp. The silly season he spoke of in the last debates only counts the night of the debate for Obama in this case. His idea of talking about the issues now days seems to be distorting Hillary's positions as well as her health care policy, knowing as many of us do that on both issues they have basically the same position and plans. It's not as if other campaigns haven't done the same, but their image has suffered for it. Curious to see if Obama's numbers don't go up from this too.

jp/michigan   February 23rd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

No one in the media will check on Obama and letters written in 1998 as a state senator that helped Rezko/Davis obtain Chicago Senior Housing contracts. It help propel him in to further politics.

TheLeftNut   February 23rd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Typical politics. Unfortunately.

Rozanne   February 23rd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

I see this as Hillary's desperate attempt at winning over voters in the upcoming Ohio and Texas primaries and caucus. All of her tactics against Barack so far has failed so now she is trying to get tough. Personally I llike Senator Obama's healthcare plan better as I don't think that people should be mandated to have health coverage…they should be able to choose and that's what Obama's plan does.

Anpl   February 23rd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

This just goes to show obama's true colors. I can understand campaigns ads against your opponent, but at least be honest about it. That really turns me off. I am no longer an Obama supporter.
Also his decision to skip the annual black forum is downright horrible. Now that he's got his votes in Luisianna and most of the black community he feels that he is better than them and no longer needs to consider the rea issues that matter to people. I guess his campaign is so much more important. Truly he is a man that won't stop at anything to get to the White House, and hope that he will lose the nomination. I find this tactics and his superificial speeches nauseating. I will not vote for him in the general election, and I hope that many of hillary supporters will do the same and either not vote for him or vote for McCain. I'd rather vote for McCain than suffer under Obama's leadership or lack thereof.

blake andrew   February 23rd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

shame on you hillary because you have help destroy the trade for future genation give give it up and go take care of bill. you are nice on one day and desprate the next day. cnn you alway put my message on moderation what up with that?

Rachel   February 23rd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

I guess she is getting a taste of her own medicine. She laid the groundwork for this kind of campaign when she and her husband played dirty politics during the South Carolina primary when Bill went on the Tom Joyner Morning Show being rude and insulting to not only the journlist interviewing but to black people in general, as if our vote could be taken for granted. We think before we vote. Paternalism and the plantation politics are no longer in play! Is she going to cry now as she did before New Hampshire?

Muzza   February 23rd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

I am absolutely appalled at this latest stunt by the Obama campaign. So much for Obama's "talk" about appoaching politics in a "new" way where dirty tactics are not the dominant mode of operation. How dare he attack ANY plan that aims to ensure that each and every citizen in this country has access to health insurance and health care. How any democrat can claim to represent the ideals of the party without agreeing with the concept of universal health care is beyond me. Sometimes I wonder which party BO is even representing? All I can say is this - if the media and BO are successful in deceiving the public about reality, then I sure as hope Hillary Clinton decides to run as an independent and shows this country who really represents the voice of everyday people.

DISGUSTED & APPALLED.

Desiree   February 23rd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Barack Obama talks about hope and change but he doesn't practice what he preaches.

Chris   February 23rd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

The wicked taketh the truth to be hard.

Shame of you Hillary for continuously lying and flip flopping. Didn't you say you are going to take money from people's wages?

Hillary is clearly desperate.

Good job Obama. We would like to see more truth come out.

Mati   February 23rd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Obama is a disgusting politician. He attacks even stronger now because he thinks he got immunity as the front runner.

Do not forget that he got half of the popular vote so far. Even worse.. I did a quick check of the total number of votes using data posted by CNN.. I acknowledge this is just an estimation, maybe someone can come with the real numbers..

Without Michigan, and adding primary votes and caucus votes (I know they are not equivalent, but this shows the stupidity of the caucus system), and including Florida (where both candidates where equally placed) Hillary has 10,090,248 and Obama has 9,525,645 votes.

If we take out Florida, Hillary has 9,233,040 and Obama has 8,956,604.

So, why does never media tell this story? I would welcome a better account of the total number of votes so some of you stop this propaganda that Obama represents the voice of the majority of voters. No, so far she seems to be ahead regarding the popular vote. Is this true?

If its democracy, let it be.

Lynne   February 23rd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

I just heard Ms. Clinton's speech on the mailers. I am for Obama, but respect the work Ms. Clinton has done over the years. I'm afraid now she sounds like a sore loser. She is hurting the party-just what the Republicans hoped for.

Rosemarie   February 23rd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

About time everyone started voting for Hillary, she is the best Democratic Canditate. I was just watching a speech by Obama on stage somewhere, behind him were dark lights and a set of drums, and spotlights on him,spending money on entertaining people he does well ,and has sucked them all right in.

WAKE UP AMERICA - YOU ARE BACKING THE WRONG PERSON!

Hillary 08

ShameOnHer   February 23rd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Sounds to me like she's desperate..and hoping these "mailers" will put a villianous spin on Barakand his campaign ..but it will backfire(mark my words)

Anonymous   February 23rd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Shame on you Barack. You stated that you want to run a campaing based on honesty.

Patty   February 23rd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Once again hypocrisy rears its ugly head in that the Obama campaign is critical of anything negative from the Clinton camp but finds no problems with sending out their own negativity and misleading advertisements. I suppose the media will gloss over this double standard as they usually do. What a shame that the democratic race is now being shown such a lopsided coverage of real events complaining about the same indiscretion from one side yet ignoring the identical behavior from the other.

Micah   February 23rd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Wow. I'm really not surprised. I can't wait for this cult-like following of Barack Obama's to end. I'm hoping that members of my party will wake up and get real. Barack Obama is not MLK Jr. Barack Obama is not JFK. Barack Obama is not Bill Clinton. He is no where close to the greatness that those three men contributed to this great country. If we were in a time of peace and prosperity Barack Obama would be a fine President but how on Earth do voters think a one-term senator is going to be able to manage the war in Iraq, health care, the economy and the many other problems Americans face on a daily basis. He will be another Jimmy Carter. Wake up Democrats we just gained control again and we're going to throw it all away.

Nancy   February 23rd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I hope the media will finally start investigating Obama's tactics. It seems CNN and the other media outlets have annointed him without scrutiny. Even the picture on the CNN politics homepage yesterday showed a favorable picture of him and a side view of her. Your biases in this election have really turned me off to CNN.

Rick   February 23rd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

More deception from the Obama campaign. When will we see through his charade? Didn't George W. Bush dupe you 8 years ago into allowing him to walk into the White House unscrutinized?

HILLARY = Champion of Negativity   February 23rd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

WHat's wrong Hillary, you are afraid that he will take your Divisive/Negativity Championship award away from you? That's not possible!!!

That's one of the BIG reasons you are loosing. You are way too divisive and negative to be President. I am not just talking about your adds (remember your adds in Wisconsin.PLEASE!!!)

Oh, yes, you are also loosing because you have run such a bad financial campaigning. We don't want our president spending like that and being disorganized like that!

California Voter   February 23rd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Awaiting moderation, I'm sure.

As the news media will not challenge Obama and his campaign on his half-truths and outright negative campaigning, Clinton must continue to respond to these kinds of mailings. I know the American public wants a hero to save them, but that's like hoping getting married will save you as a person.

By the way, I haven't done a fact check on this but I just heard that Obama has proposed some legislation that would require the US to provide foreign aid to Africa equal to 7% of our GDP. Is there some connection here to his membership in the Trinity United Church of Christ? America, ask questions before it's too late.

Thomas   February 23rd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

I just don't understand how anyone can support such a plainly dishonest person. Say anything, do anything.

BB   February 23rd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Shame on you "Senator Clinton" GARNISHING WAGES for MANDATORY HEALTH INSURANCE taking money away from FAMILIES does not deserve a VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Eric   February 23rd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

The truth hurts. I do my research, and those mailers are true. Plus if they weren't, Hillary would have said something in Thursday's debate. Obama is not throwing mud or attacking Hillary. He is just stating the facts.

If Hillary is getting angry over this, than i know that she would loose the general debate, because the GOP guys is going to throw much more mud her way.

That's why Barrack is the best candidate. Hillary is to Polarizing.

HP Boston