February 27, 2008
Posted: 09:08 AM ET
 Clinton criticized Obama for not outright rejecting Farrakhan's support.
Clinton criticized Obama for not outright rejecting Farrakhan's support.

(CNN) — Hillary Clinton criticized Barack Obama at Tuesday night's debate for not directly rejecting the support of Louis Farrakhan.

“There's a difference between denouncing and rejecting," Clinton said. "And I think when it comes to this sort of, you know, inflammatory — I have no doubt that everything that Barack just said is absolutely sincere. But I just think, we've got to be even stronger. We cannot let anyone in any way say these things because of the implications that they have, which can be so far reaching.”

Farrakhan, the head of the Nation of Islam, recently made positive statements about Obama’s candidacy. The controversial leader has made many remarks that have been deemed anti-Semitic, including calling Judaism a "gutter religion." Asked tonight if he accepted Farrakhan's endorsement, Obama denounced those statements.

"I obviously can't censor him, but it is not support that I sought," Obama said. "And we're not doing anything, I assure you, formally or informally with Minister Farrakhan."

Pressed if he specifically rejected the endorsement, Obama said, "I can't say to somebody that he can't say that he thinks I'm a good guy" and that he didn't "see a difference between 'denouncing' and 'rejecting.'"

Responding later in the exchange directly to Clinton's comments, Obama said, "There's no formal offer of help from Minister Farrakhan that would involve me rejecting it."

"But if the word 'reject' Senator Clinton feels is stronger than the word 'denounce,' then I'm happy to concede the point, and I would reject and denounce," he added.

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Hessie L. Harris   February 27th, 2008 9:21 am ET

This is pathetic. We have the flower of America's youth dying in Iraq in needless war, the country is nearly overrun by illegal immmigration, people from all strata of society are losing homes, jobs, and cars due to the financial crisis and Hillary Clinton is worried about the which verb is appropriate for Obama to use and how he should respond to an endorsement? Sadly this is so typical of Hilary's attitude toward Obama. She does not treat him like a peer but rather a twelve year old that she must control and direct. Remember her recent speech that began with her waving her finger and saying repeatedly shame on you? She also told Obama what she expected of him. Hillary could have easily been a school principal. She would have bee more effective in that role than as a presidential candidate.

anonymous   February 27th, 2008 9:21 am ET

I find it amusing that the majority of this blog centers around matters of simple semantics, while the majority of Democrats here can neither spell nor use proper grammar. It feels really good to be an independent.

Anyone But Clinton 08

Jordan   February 27th, 2008 9:21 am ET

Clinton has the right stuff to lead our country right now. We need a strong and experienced President to handle very tough issues here and abroad.

Obama is too inexperienced and his ideas and proposals are unrealistic. There is not enough money to complete all of his promises.

Obama is only 46 years old. He should let Hillary run in 2008 and then he should run in 8 years, in 2016. He'll then be 54 years old – a perfect age for running as President and he'll have much more experience for being President and to succeed. I'm afraid he'll make a lot of mistakes now. It scares me.

Ian   February 27th, 2008 9:20 am ET

The last debate was a good oppurtinity to see where the candidates say they stand on the issues. They've really found that balance by telling the voters what they want to hear without going overboard. It was also nice that neither side pointed out the fact that their voting record absolutely doesn't match what they say they are for. Keep up the good work everybody. China is counting on you.

Charles   February 27th, 2008 9:19 am ET

Stop the madness! Senator Clinton looked very much like a person on her last breathe. She was rude to the host and was nearly in tears. Her skies opening/celestial chorus, Saturday Night Live comments were unbecoming for a candidate for the highest office in the land. Minister Farrakhan did not, I repeat did not, endorse Senator Obama. He did however speak very highly of him. May I point out that Minister Farrakhan is an American citizen, not well liked, but still a citizen. Subliminal racism permeates the political battlefield again and is constantly brought into the contest by the Clinton Team. Hispanic's and other minorities that support Senator Clinton in Texas, Ohio or any other state should pay attention to her continuous marginalizing and undervaluing of them. Senator Clinton had that I'm tired and I'm losing look all over her face last night. Senator Obama looked presidential and rested, even under fire the entire debate. Bow out gracefully if you can Hillary! OBAMA is the people's choice!

Tommy2   February 27th, 2008 9:19 am ET

One question. Does anyone know if Barack sits on a pillow during the debates, so he will look taller than Hillary ? Hillary said "ask Barack if he needs another pillow".

jb   February 27th, 2008 9:18 am ET

This exchange was another perfect example of the type of "leadership" HC brings to the table — wasted time arguing the semantics of word choice when the man had already DENOUNCED what Farakhan represents and says. But NO, Hillary, always the "my way or the highway" politician butts in and insists he says it her way if he really means it. She is like debating with a whining child, which by the way, is the way she came across for most of the debate.

The end was even more disgusting when it seemed to degenerate into a "feminist" movement reminiscent of the '60s.

The choices for the next President are now VERY clear: Obama or McCain. The Republicans are hinting at it, the Independents are expressing it and a majority of Democratic voters are voting it. She should bow out gracefully before she completely throws away what little support in DC she has left after this debacle of a mismanaged campaign.

Rod   February 27th, 2008 9:17 am ET

Obama was so Presidential. I think he is going to be one of the greatest Presidents ever. Bush of course being the worst.

TheUrbanRevolution   February 27th, 2008 9:17 am ET

To all – as soon as the Farrakhan hit the press – Obama came out and "denounced" his rhetoric and endorsement – it was on his website maybe 5 minutes later.

For the record, Hillary is too intelligent to resort to this type of pettiness and denounce is a stronger word than reject.

Ron   February 27th, 2008 9:17 am ET

The headline should read: Clinton Undermines Nation's Trust. The Farrakhan question was in poor taste and clearly MSNBC's & Tim Russert's feeble attempt to throw Barack off guard. Too bad it failed miserably! He countered and threw it back in their smug faces! BRAVO BARACK!

JOhn   February 27th, 2008 9:17 am ET

OBAMA is a joke. He want to sit dfown with world leaders? Does he think they are going to kiss his feet and do what he wants?
He can't win a debate, so what is he going to say to them? Just agree to what they want? He may be a good speaker, but that is all. He has no ideas about the issues. He can answer a debate question if
Hillary hasn't given hers first. Noone to copy.

Brenda   February 27th, 2008 9:17 am ET

I am now able to see what I have heard people say about Hillary (e.g. she is a cold b…, she is hard, power hungry, argumentative, combative). There may be a warmer, softer side of her but it seems that under pressure her truer nature comes forth. Shame on you Hillary Clinton in trying to use something so divisive as Farrankan to win points. Not only did you fail, you completely erased any favorable impression I have held in reserve for you. Obama – good job! I am praying you become our next president to lead this country in transformation and living up to its promise. Your clear, focused mind is admirable and I completely loved when you said (I am paraphrasing so forgive me if there is an omission/mistatement) "to change this country we need to inspire people into action – paying attention to as well as to our government and holding us accountable." This has been a strong desire of mine for soooo long.

RightyTighty   February 27th, 2008 9:17 am ET

liberal eating liberal

Ha Ha!!

Tim, DC   February 27th, 2008 9:16 am ET

CNN takes one of Obama's best tactical answers of the night and makes it appear like Clinton got him. What pathetic reporting.

Viv   February 27th, 2008 9:15 am ET

Can we move on already????

concerned educated woman   February 27th, 2008 9:15 am ET

oh boy! Guys you really hate Hillary! It looks like whatever she says or does is and will be always wrong…. Thats sad, she is very smart women. This country jumps from one extreme to another-Bush vs Obama…. Oh well I guess each nation deserves its leaders…. SAD SAD SAD

Elaine in Atlanta   February 27th, 2008 9:15 am ET

This debate was pointless and a complete waste of time. Billary asked for this debate. Just drop out of the race already, you are not going to win!

Nancy Lorback   February 27th, 2008 9:14 am ET

I want the public to be reminded of Hillary Clinton's many different positions on her Iraq vote. A year ago she said, “If the most important thing to any of you is choosing someone who did not cast that vote or who has said his vote was a mistake, then there are others to choose from,” .
I do not reject Hillary because she is a woman. I do not reject her because she is shrill. I reject her because she is still representing the "third way" of the DLC. The nation is ready to go back to the "first way".

anonymous   February 27th, 2008 9:14 am ET

Good Job Obama

Once again another debate goes in your column.

Pam B.   February 27th, 2008 9:13 am ET

Sen. Clinton, once again, schooled Sen. Obama in the intricacies of the problems facing our country. If Sen. Obama is such a great speaker – why so may uhs and ahs, while stumbling for an answer that is then allowed to go on for ages with no distinct point being made. He seems to like the sound of his own voice.

Sen. Obama should have been much stronger in his complete rejection/denouncement, of not just what Farrakhan has said, but his SUPPORT whether it was elicited or not.

Sen. Obama's statement that he had not held a substantive meeting of his Foreign Relations Sub Committee on European Affairs since his chairmanship last January was unacceptable….'because he's been campaigning'. The next President will have to juggle many tasks and still see them through to accomplishments. If that is what we can expect, all our hopes and dreams will remain just that.

full disclosure   February 27th, 2008 9:13 am ET

Why won't Hillary release her tax returns?

I reject and denounce her for not coming clean, as Obama has.

What are she and Bill hiding?

Mary   February 27th, 2008 9:13 am ET

anyone see commentary on cbs this morning where the speaker said you could reduce Barak's speeches to Dr. Seuss books. Yeah, that's what I'm looking for in a president.

Obama (AKA "Speeches")   February 27th, 2008 9:12 am ET

Why is CNN not analyzing Obama and how he stumbled last night? On the serface these CNN analyst are acting as if they support Obama, but I would really like to know thier Republican pick. And, what will the contest look like between Obama and MCCain?

Tesa P   February 27th, 2008 9:12 am ET

Mr Fitzwell Nader's ethnicity is Arab… check it out…. Ralph Nader is not a serious candidate.

Sandra Kennedy   February 27th, 2008 9:12 am ET

Loved the headlines !

Terry   February 27th, 2008 9:12 am ET

I reject and denounce the war in Iraq

From PA   February 27th, 2008 9:11 am ET

I would never vote for obama!!

Ommi   February 27th, 2008 9:11 am ET

Farrakhan did not endorse Senator Obama its the media who puts a spin on this one, Farrakhan did say he liked the message Senator Obama sends to the American people. That is in NO WAY an endorsement.

Now lets us REJECT and DENOUCE the racist comments made by the Clintons in the last few weeks.

This woman will say and do anything to be elected. I once liked the Clintons but not anymore I have to vote for CHANGE come MARCH 4th 2008

Obama 08

sheila jones   February 27th, 2008 9:10 am ET

The political reporting by CNN's Anderson Cooper and the political team is definitely pro Obama. It would be good to hear more balanced reporting. Thank you.

Scott   February 27th, 2008 9:10 am ET

I'll try to make this as simple as possible:

CNN, the charges of bias that are thrown around on these posts are often funny.

HOWEVER, your choice to run this headline is outrageous. Someone who had not seen the MSNBC debate would read your article and think that Obama indicated support for Farrakhan. He clearly did not.

The fact that you still have it as your lead item is a disgrace. This is yellow journalism at its worst.

Is someone from the Clinton campaign running Political Ticker now?

maxoutkast   February 27th, 2008 9:09 am ET

Hillary, if you want to poke at these little things, us Obama supporters can do it all night!

Mike   February 27th, 2008 9:09 am ET

She tried and tried again and still cant make him fall off his bike. Lol she has to give up and go away after tuesday because now she is starting to look old and saggy when I look at her in HD.

Obama 08

dean   February 27th, 2008 9:08 am ET

Neither one of them will make a good president. No doubt about it. The Democrats have nobody and nothing to offer again at election time.

Lynn in NM   February 27th, 2008 9:08 am ET

Wow. Hillary must have been going to school! She now knows the definitions of "denounce" and "reject." Just a few years ago, she couldn't give her husband the definition of "is." Good dramatics, Hillary.

Charlotte   February 27th, 2008 9:08 am ET

Obama-bots must not read any of the previous comments since 9 out of 10 were the definition of reject or denounce. This must have hurt there boy big time, for them to go on and on. His church minister thinks Farrakhan is the greatest..nuf said

maxoutkast   February 27th, 2008 9:08 am ET

and i know I used "won" instead of "one". I meant to that. Just kidding. Ooppss

Jonathan Harrar   February 27th, 2008 9:08 am ET

This is not even a story.. Did the writer watch the debate..it was funny!

Teddy   February 27th, 2008 9:08 am ET

is Minister Farrakhan not a US citizen? Has he no right to vote? why couldn't he appreciate and support the candidate he best…?

Concerned Voter   February 27th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Clinton won this. Experience does count. Obama also agrees with Clinton on most issues. Go figure.

NewYorker   February 27th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Why to go Hillary! Good point to bring up. I hope you continue to bring up these points which Obama chooses to publically ignore. No doubt Obama is headed for the White House, but when he gets there, you watch who comes knocking on his door for favors. The American people will be amazed they were so short sighted.

maxoutkast   February 27th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Now that I think it about, though, "reject" is more of a physical act. Denouncement is like reject + the moral equivalent. So, in that sense, I take it back. It can't really be argued.

zach lincoln, ne   February 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

Hillary is the best!!!!

Joy Remson-Johnson   February 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

The questioned was phrased as did he reject the endorsement. He should have said right off, yes I reject the endorsement from someone who upholds hate as an ideal virtue. Obama's pause and ambivalence toward directly stating rejection rather than denounciation made it seem as if he was trying to find a way to maintain all the votes and support he can get. For once I would like to see him take a stand on an issue rather than deflect and detract, because this tactic will not hold well against the Republicans. As we all know they will and have already started pulling out the big guns. They will tear him apart. He is great in speeches but in debates he is monatone and flounders around his words. He needs a great deal of debate practice before the national election starts if he is going to be the democratic nominee. The repeated use of the words change and hope can only go so far against McCain and as a Democratic I fear the results of endorsing a man who noone has really questioned on the difficult topics. The media will no longer play nice with Obama once the election for the presidency starts and we need a fighter.

Myrna   February 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

My take On this: It is VERY Petty on the Part of Hillary.. She is gasping at straws and IT is NOT working !! How Convient that she forgot to Mention that she was ON the 700 Club !!!! Yes she was, and she considers her self a Democrat????? What a Hypocrite !!! I am Just thankful that the debates are finally OVER!!! Hillary Pack in and get out of the race NOW!!!! Obama 08

Concerned Voter   February 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

To Sarah Smith…it was Edwards who got haircut, not Clinton.

Fowler   February 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

Dictionary.com

Denounce: to condemn or censure openly or publicly

Reject: to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc

—- Denounce is a more apt and accurate term to describe what Obama said.

Sam   February 27th, 2008 9:06 am ET

And yet Barack Obama continues to be affiliated with the Trinity United Church, whose pastor equates Zionism with racism and praises Louis Farrakhan. Even if Senator Obama does not agree with such positions, one is known by the friends one keeps.

heatmiser   February 27th, 2008 9:05 am ET

I'm sure that the hundreds of thousands of dead in Rwanda will be shocked to find that the Clinton's care now about genocide in Africa, that is, when there is a debating point to be made. When it came to action, Willy sat on his hands and did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO STOP IT, the same thing Skippy has been doing about Darfur, get off of your high-horse, Clintons!!!

D.H   February 27th, 2008 9:05 am ET

Obama is the the cure to the ills of this nation, and Clinton is the same of what we had before–Yuk!! Let's support a Man for a change for the better and help make America great once again.

Anonymous   February 27th, 2008 9:04 am ET

It is obvious to me and other democrats that Barack Obama started to win primaries and votes when Edwards withdraw from the presidential race. So, how does he feel stealing the candidacy from somebody with a true vote base? If Edwards were still on the race,Hillary Clinton by now would have been the democrat nominate for presidency or close to it. How can Obama say he will reunite the party and bring people together when millions of democrats feel he is cashing somebody´s else checks?

Dennis Scott   February 27th, 2008 9:04 am ET

Denounce: To pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil.
What is Hillary Clinton talking about!!!!!!

Vikki in Northern Illinois   February 27th, 2008 9:04 am ET

Senator Obama won the debate against Sen. Clinton easily. He can run his campaign smoothly without borrowing from himself. Also, he shows intelligent, sophisticated leadership above and beyond Hillary Clinton's misuse of campaign funds and mud slinging. She looked very desperate last night.

IM4ULORD   February 27th, 2008 9:04 am ET

What a sweet scene. The Dem's are imploding. It doesn't suprise me seeing the Dem's emitting this hate at one another. Check your morals and ethics at the door and prepare to defend yourself from hateful, vile attacks. This is what happens when you don't stand fro LIFE!!

penny   February 27th, 2008 9:03 am ET

Hillary did not attack Barama whatsoever. You Obama supporters are weak if you feel that her pressing Obama was an attack have you any sense for what is an attack and is not? I thought she very gently ande simply asked Senator Obama to answer the specific question asked of him by Russert – do you reject the support of Farrakhan? Obama did not very purposefully answer YES I reject his support – he soft shoed all over the place and this is a concern and it was right for Hillary to ask him to answer the question. He did concede the point and he did answer the question – finally – because he realized that she was RIGHT. So give it up already – he did.
I for one will watch for some follow-up from the Obama campaign to see how they address the wider question by Russert. Bet there wont be any – lets see.
GO HILLARY!

George   February 27th, 2008 9:03 am ET

Obama is making me nervous. He has to be told he should, without question, distance himself from Farrakhan? Why is he reluctant to do this?

Is Michelle now NOT very proud of America again because we all expect you, Obabma, to make it clear you do not accept this hatred???

Ryan   February 27th, 2008 9:02 am ET

How Clintonian. She must get that from her husband. Parsing commonly understood words – as noted in a recent news column in the Chicago Trib. Go Barack!

JB   February 27th, 2008 9:02 am ET

Alright, this is stupid. You are going to criticize someone for using the word "denounce" instead of reject. Just an FYI:

denounce:to condemn or censure openely in public
reject:to refuse to have, take or recognize

Actually denounce is a stronger word, and this conversation is retarded. All you Hillbots will attempt to find anything to criticize Obama on. Truthfully this is not an opportunity. Move along. Next topic!!!

LITA   February 27th, 2008 9:02 am ET

Hillary is still the best .

simcha   February 27th, 2008 9:02 am ET

We in the Jewish community need to be careful about ALL our would-be leaders and must examine the record and NOT the rhetoric when making choices.

Many years ago when Sen Clinton was First Lady Clinton in the White House, she was visited by Mrs Suah Arafat, I think in the White house, and in front of public media and in the presence of Then-First lady Clinton, Mrs Arafat made comments like this:
" ….The Israelis in Palestine are putting poison in the drinking water of Palestinian children and causing deaths amongst the Palestinian people…."

Mrs Clinton did not challenge Mrs Arafat about that remark and this has left an indelible mark on my memory of Mrs Clinton. Can your reporters find the old tapes and re-examine them, Mrs Arafat has a right to say whatever, but I expect my friends to stand up for me when I am being slandered.

Simcha

Denounce VS Reject   February 27th, 2008 9:01 am ET

There is a destinction between the two words. Hillary did a great job with holding Obama to an answer.

maxoutkast   February 27th, 2008 9:01 am ET

Here is the definition for "reject":

1. to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.: to reject the offer of a better job.
2. to refuse to grant (a request, demand, etc.).
3. to refuse to accept (someone or something); rebuff: The other children rejected him. The publisher rejected the author's latest novel.
4. to discard as useless or unsatisfactory: The mind rejects painful memories.
5. to cast out or eject; vomit.
6. to cast out or off.

And here is the definition for "renounce":

1. to give up or put aside voluntarily: to renounce worldly pleasures.
2. to give up by formal declaration: to renounce a claim.
3. to repudiate; disown: to renounce one's son.

Now, you tell me, which won is more clear than the other for what Obama was trying to say about Louis Farrakhan's so called endorsement. Honestly, I think the second sounds much better, but I don't think one good argue either way. Sure is getting to be slim pickins for Hillary. She's trying real, real hard to get him on anything she can. I really wish she would just worry about herself. Reminds me of childish games at school. I know she has worked hard to get this far, but it is a contest and there is a such thing as a sore loser.

Dan   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

She's done. That's it. Game over. Obama 08.

MICHAEL BURNETT L.I.N.Y.   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

FIRST LET ME SAY THAT YOU CAN NOT CONTROL WHO SUPPORTS YOU, I MYSELF HAVE NO PROBLEM WITH THAT, HERE'S MY PROBLEM' THIS QUESTION IS FOR MR. FARAKHAN. TELL ME AS A SO CALLED BLACK LEADER WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR THE BLACK MAN? WHETHER IN THIS COUNTRY OR ABROAD? WE HAVE AFRICAN MEN WOMEN AND CHILDREN DYING EVERYDAY IN COUNTRY'S ALL OVER THE WORLD, WHAT ARE YOU DOING FOR THEM? AS A AFRICAN MAN I WILL SAY TO YOU STOP THE TALKING AND START THE DOING, CAN YOU DO THAT? I AM SO TIRED OF YOU SO CALLED BLACK LEADERS THAT DO NO MORE BUT TALK JUST TO HERE YOUR OWN VOICE!! WHEN I RETIRE FROM MY JOB GOD WELLING, I WILL BE GOING BACK HOME LIKE SO MANY HAVE DONE BEFORE ME! I WILL BE GOING BACK TO MY HOME COUNTRY OF AFRICA, TO DO WHAT I CAN FOR MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS THAT ARE OR HAVE BEEN LESS FORTUNATE THEN MYSELF. AND YES I WAS BORN AND RAISED IN NEW YORK, BUT THIS COUNTRY HAS A WAY OF TELLING YOU THAT YOUR NOT WANTED. AND MY QUESTION TO THEM IS WHY DID YOU BRING OUR ANCESTORS HERE TO BEGAIN WITH? THERE IS TO MUCH RACISM IN THIS COUNTRY AND FOR AMERICA TO ALLOW SOME ONE LIKE FARAHNAN, BILL CUNNINGHAM, RUSH, TO TALK THAT RACEST B/S ON LIVE RADIO OR T.V. JUST GOES TO SHOW THAT RACISM IS STILL ALIVE AND DOING QUITE WELL!!! THIS IS THE B/S THAT WE HAVE TO DEAL WITH EVERYDAY, AND WHEN I SAY "WE" I MEAN ALL THE PEOPLE THAT ARE AGAINST B/S LIKE THIS !!!!!!

dan c   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

Clinton really needs to just pack up and go before she does anymore damage to the party!!

and CNN what a ridiculous headline you've concocted for such an irelevant story!!!

lilahenna   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

God please help USA
God please open the eye and the hart of people
to say no to obama hussion
this realy crazy
TEXAS AND OHIO ITS TO YOU TO STOP THIS DISASTER

The Analyst   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

I've just checked my figures and the comment that Clinton needs to win by 25% in Ohio and Texas to get back in this race is wrong.

10% wins by Clinton in Texas and Ohio and a solid win in Rhode Island (she will lose Vermont) could see Obama's lead cut by around 50-60 delegates. That would leave everything to fight for in Mississippi and Pennsylvania.

An endorsement for either candidate by Bill Richardson could be crucial in determining this election. Obviously if he backs Obama the game is up for Hillary. But if he backs Hillary then it could be a whole new ball game.

Matthew   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

It seems that Hillary Clinton will say and do anything to become the next President of the United States. I think the fundamental shift that the country is seeing in the political landscape is a desire to shift away from a candidate who is willing to do or say anything to a candidate who is an honest steward of the public trust. As Senator Clinton has become more divisive in the last few weeks you have seen people become more turned off by that sort of 'do anything to win' politics. While she may spin accusations or statements on her policy positions and their steadfastness. If you listen to her over time and in different locations it is quite clear she has said different and at time contradictory statements over NAFTA, health care, the war in Iraq, and more.

paul merando   February 27th, 2008 9:00 am ET

DURING LAST NIGHTS DEBATE (2-26-08) HILLIARY WAS NOT ALLOWED TO FINISH SPEAKING ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS!
WHAT GIVES HERE? IT JUST SHOWS THE MEDIA IS FAVORING OBAMA AND NOT SCRUTINIZING HIM AS THEY DO EVERYONE ELSE. ARE THEY AFRAID TO ANGER PART OF THE PUBLIC?

WHATS FAIR IS FAIR – LETS SEE HILLIARY GET EQUAL TIME!

PAUL M.
WEST TN

Toby   February 27th, 2008 8:59 am ET

All you morons trying to enlighten us to the different definitions of "denounce" and "reject" need to remember that Clinton was criticizing that Obama is only "denouncing" Farrakhan's message, not "rejecting" his and his congregation's endorsement. Obama is trying to have it both ways: appealing to the general public by saying he doesn't agree with Farrakhan, but also saying Farrakhan and his followers have a right to support him. As a leader, he needs to be more clear about from whom he gets his support. If David Duke endorsed a Republican candidate, we would tear that candidate apart unless he/she totally "rejected" that endorsement.

Janet from NH   February 27th, 2008 8:59 am ET

Hillary Clinton = Rude, arrogant American…haven't we had enough of that with Geoerge W.

Murf   February 27th, 2008 8:59 am ET

I don't think CNN realizes how offensive it is that an African American candidate should be seen as having to renounce, denounce, reject or in any other way distance him or her self from Louis Farrakhan! The suggestion that someone like that speaks for all blacks is highly offensive. Dragging Sen. Obama through the mud because some person who has said repulsive things thinks he will be a good President only strengthens the resolve of those in the community who have abandoned the divide and conquer politics of Hillary Clinton.

Mischelle from Illinois   February 27th, 2008 8:59 am ET

Hillary Clinton was ABSOLUTELY CORRECT to "teach" Obama on the spot that if he wants to take a stand against people like Farrakhan he must use the strongest language to show that he absolutely REJECTS such positions. This leaves him NO open door to embrace any support of such in the future and IF he has received ANY support, guidence, taken a meeting, etc…now it could be used against him. AGAIN only IF he has, but he says that he has not. I take him for his word, that he has not, but I reserve final judgement because so much is still coming out about his connection to RESKO…(See Chicago Tribune articles about Political FAVOR LIST and Gov. Rod Blagovich.)

Waaaiit a minute   February 27th, 2008 8:58 am ET

Hmm why are we making this an issue again?

Amused, Las Vegas   February 27th, 2008 8:58 am ET

CNN –

Why are you reporting that a Clinton supporter stabbed a Obama supporter?

The teaser for the video -"A Hillary supporter allegedly stabs an Obama supporter. CNN's Jeanne Moos takes a stab at the story."

When you listen to the story:

1. – It's in-laws (think there may be more than politics involved?)

2. – The Obama supporter of the two started choking the Clinton supporter, who then reacted. Was stabbing necesssary? Probably not. Should you be able to defend yourself when you are being choked?

Actually it's something of a metaphor – the media believes that Obama can get away with murder, and that Clinton should just accept it.

I am very worried about winning the election for the Democrats if Obama is the candidate. But more so, I am very worried what this untried and frankly unpromising candidate would do in the White House.

It's really sad that while most Democrats across the board according to the polls think that Clinton would do a better job as president, they may still vote for the person they think is less qualified. "Inspiration" fades fast when the failure to deliver is apparent.

Obama all the way!!!   February 27th, 2008 8:58 am ET

I think Hillary Clinton is the Scum of the Earth!!!! GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

David   February 27th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Obama will be a graet President. It unfortunate he will not satisfied exerybody, but he is inspirational and motivate many people to try and achieve great things.

Obama is set the standard extremely high, so it means Hillary will have to work hard to reach or supersede it.

Obama YOUR THE BOSS!! I said that long ago and I will continue.

Jamaica

Emmanuel Winner   February 27th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Annoying to see this as the first post here on the debate – Clinton was quibbling, and we all know it, yet CNN wants to make an issue of it. After you've denounced a demogogue, what's there to reject? Why not just abjure him? Or should we also repulse him? We can condemn him as well, but isn't that too much like denouncing? Let's deny him and forsake him as well.

What everyone has missed here, by the way, is this occurred because Clinton realized she wasn't directly part of that question-answer moment and then went on oh-so-humbly (not) to interject herself – 'lookit me, I refused anti-Semitic support, too!' Russert then gave her a quasi-dignified exit by re-directing her remarks back to Obama, who handled the matter in good spirit.

By the way, the New York Independent Party (the national party was founded by Ross Perot) was not anti-Semitic as Clinton claims, it was just not pro-Israel. The handful of anit-Semites that tried to tie themselves to the party were purged, and the Party went on to offer Golisano for the Governorship of the State; he put up a good fight but lost, and has devoted himself to various philanthropic projects in the western NY area. Not much has been heard from the Independents since.
I mention this because Clinton was trying to paint herself as doing something heroic; given the strong pro-Israel feeling in the NY City area, this was just opportunistic politics. I recognized that then, but still voted for her, but the fact remains that she has done little for Western NY – less, in fact than Golisano has done with his own monies.

Pat Carpenter   February 27th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Enough!!!!!

What is the difference between rejecting and denouncing? Does anyone know how much it cost us to get the definition of "is"? Does$80 Million strike a familiar note?

Hillary Clinton is a 100% political animal. She will say or do anything to get elected.

HIREDGUN   February 27th, 2008 8:56 am ET

Think about who would be a possible Vice Presidential choice for Obama; would you like: Jessie Jackson ; Al Sharpton ; or even Louis Farrahkan. No thanks I will pick Hilliary even though I couldnt guess who her choices would be Only on Nov 4th will we know.
Oh yea Florida votes don't count ( ha ha wanna-bet)

BeatrixK   February 27th, 2008 8:56 am ET

Hillary is looking more and more shrill with each debate. The whole 'Denounce/Reject' argument solidified my reasons why I can't vote for her and respect myself.

I found her symantic's lesson to be futher proof she is not capable of handling the pressures of the POTUS job. Under Hillary, we get in a spat with N. Korea, and she's gonna get flustered and try to deflect with an argument over what…'Nuclear vs. NucUlar?'

Neither party has a philosophy I can get 100% alligned with, hence, I consider myself an independant. I loathe what the Christian Right has done to the republican party, and have found it increasingly difficult to support rebulican candidates of late for that reason. For the first time in MANY years, I am thilled to have a candidate in Obama that I can actualy vote FOR, instead of 'Not gonna vote for THAT one!'

minna   February 27th, 2008 8:56 am ET

A better headline would be:

Obama denounces Farrakhan

you generally reject an object or thing

and denounce a person

Russert didn't frame the question well

in any case, denounce is a much stronger verb and Clinton was just trying to score points. Obama has been very clear on this.

I think Obama has more subtlety with language and definitely elegantly won on this one

Hmmm...   February 27th, 2008 8:56 am ET

I wonder if either of them would denounce or reject endorsements by Castro or Chavez?

Terri Patanus   February 27th, 2008 8:55 am ET

Hillary 08

if she is not on the ticket I am voting for McCain

Robin   February 27th, 2008 8:55 am ET

It is very streng that Mrs. Hillary Clinton talks about the morals and standards. It is like Dick Cheney talking about moralities of the war in Iraq. Which planet these people are from?

Matt   February 27th, 2008 8:55 am ET

Denounce vs. Reject- it's like it's 1998 and we're fighting over what "is" means all over again!

Mae   February 27th, 2008 8:55 am ET

By saying something Clinton gave Obama the chance to restate his point and make it sound even better. The word denounce is a strong word and very similar to reject, possibly even harsher, but Clinton wanted to play a game of semantics and she lost by giving him the chance to say he denounces and rejects. Also her comment about having to answer first was weird, and saying let's see if Barack needs a pillow was just ridiculous.

Kristy   February 27th, 2008 8:55 am ET

First of all, you need to realize this was not an endorsement from Farrakhan it was support. You can't tell someone that they can't support you, everyone has the right to support whomever they wish. We don't tell people for whom to vote. We don't say, "No, You can't like me because I disagree with your beliefs." But Obama can openly disagree with their beliefs and refuse endorsements or financial contributions, which is what he did. Farrakhan has not entered into any sort of agreement with Obama, financially or otherwise.

Also, I'd say Denounce was strong enough to begin with.

de·nounce (dĭ-nouns') Pronunciation Key
tr.v. de·nounced, de·nounc·ing, de·nounc·es

To condemn openly as being evil or reprehensible.

Terri Patanus   February 27th, 2008 8:54 am ET

Obama said ah 845 times and stuttered like a retard last night.

What an idiot he is

J&J   February 27th, 2008 8:54 am ET

Dream on and you are all in for the biggest surprise of your life.

Adrianna   February 27th, 2008 8:54 am ET

JEWS HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO BE CONCERNED ON OBAMAS HESITATION ON THE QUESTION ….AFTER ALL ISNT HE FOR ALL PEOPLE? HE IS CLOSELY TIED TO MANY ACTIVISTS THAT ARE NOT FOR ALL PEOPLE BUT FOR THEIR PEOPLE!!! IT WILL ALL COME OUT WHEN IT IS HIM VS McCAIN AND HE IS HUNG OUT TO DRY BY REPUBLICAN TACTICS….HE WONT STAND A CHANCE WHEN IT ALL COMES TO SURFACE….OH AND THE YOUTH MOVEMENT FOR OBAMA…WHAT DO THEY KNOW ABOUT MORTGAGE CRISIS AND HEALTHCARE REFORM…OWN A HOME AND HAVE A FAMILY TO SUPPORT AND THEN COME TALK TO ME
HAVE YOU SEEN THE AMOUNT OF MONEY MCCAIN HAS TO RUN AGAINST OBAMA IF HE IS ELECTED 2 MILLION TO HIS 14 MILLION. HE WONT STAND A CHANCE…OH AND HILLARY AND MCCAIN ARE LONG TIME FRIENDS IN CASE YOU DIDNT KNOW…NOTICE NO ATTACKS?

gerri   February 27th, 2008 8:54 am ET

I think Hillary is desparate. Obama's record is clear on Farrakan from his days in Chicago. The two do really do not like each other and Obama doesn't like him for the remarks he has made in the past, whether they are anti-semitic, etc. Hillary is trying to stir up trouble. Again her body lanquage says it all. She loathes Obama for stealing her election from her, because after all she was supposed to be sailing in the sunlight to her nomination.

From her actions so far, she will NEVER get my vote. She showed the American people her divisiveness ways, her apparent disdain for Obama is clear for everyone to see. This is a contest, and Hillary better understand that she will have to fight to win this nomination, but be fair. Bill may have promised Hillary the nomination, but she must go through the American People.

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 8:53 am ET

This is so much fun…………………..we can discuss issues…………………..

Love CNN……………………..what would we do without it…………………………

Wolfman is soooooooooooooooooo cool………………………………………….

obama oh my………………………………………………………………………………………

Hillary go Girl………………………………………………………………………………………

McCain to blame……………………………………………………………………………….

TMG   February 27th, 2008 8:53 am ET

Black Lady From Texas February 26th, 2008 11:32 pm ET

Why is it that the Black candidate always has to answer for what's bad within our race? Is John McCain going to have to answer for Trent Lott's endorsement? I doubt it. The question won't even be posed to him, but Obama has to answer about Louis Farrahkan? Trent Lott supported Strom Thurmond, a blatant segregationist, which is just as inflammatory to Black people as Farrahkan is too Jewish people, however the question is only posed to Obama. And for Hillary to jump in there to fan the flames made me angry at first, and then just made me sad. I thought we'd come further than this…. In the words of Hillary, shame on you Tim Russert and shame on you Hillary for jumping on that racially motivated bandwagon.

:Well Said

Joanzie   February 27th, 2008 8:53 am ET

Obama is the only one to acknowledge Farrakhan as a minister. I take that as a sign of respect. That bothers me.

spyturtle   February 27th, 2008 8:53 am ET

Which Hillary will show up today? What hat will she be sporting? The new revised Hillary is embracing her inner racist.

Toby   February 27th, 2008 8:53 am ET

reject
1. to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.:

renounce

1. to repudiate;

Do you know what a synonym is Mrs. Clinton? This is the type of petty attacks that have driven away the Clinton base. There is virtually no real difference in their platform only experience and judgment. The real problem for Hillary is that her wealth of experience is outweighed by her lack of good judgment.

Berkeley   February 27th, 2008 8:53 am ET

CNN you are a disgrace. You have published 31 comments on Clinton's side and 115 on Obama'd side.

Why don't you call this site OBAMA'S SITE?

PS: You probably won't publish this one either.

norisha   February 27th, 2008 8:52 am ET

Hillary is grasping at every straw she can get her filthy hands on.Hey, anybody remember all the scandals that surrounding her 35 yrs of experience, and it seems that nobody is bringing up the fact that these problems just magically disappear. Hello, she's is so very trivial!!! Denounce and Reject Hillary!!!!

OBAMA 2008!!!!

Tim in OH   February 27th, 2008 8:52 am ET

Clearly a win for Obama last night. Clinton needs to drop out – she is getting whiny.

Jason   February 27th, 2008 8:52 am ET

There is a big difference between reject and denounce, and obviously if you're not educated with vocabulary of course you wouldn't see that.

He is supposed to be an attorney, and he does not know the difference? I guess he needs to go back to law school and take Legal Writing/Vocabulary 101.

Sarah Smith, you're latino?

Politically INCORRECT??? YOU ARE CNN   February 27th, 2008 8:51 am ET

TEXAS knows the stories, because of forwarding emails even if we can't get the real stories printed or discussed on any media! Texas and Ohio will not be blind, and by the way, there is always some truth to a story, it may not be the whole truth, but this Larry Sinclair has been threatened, and his life is in danger. Why would a man put his life in danger?

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 8:50 am ET

Sarah stop being silly………………………………………………

Ohio was the state that gave away 2004 to Bush, remember????????

Tony in Albany, NY   February 27th, 2008 8:50 am ET

Smackdown…Obama style!
Can you smell what the Barack's got cookin'

Put a fork in her.,..she's done!

milton   February 27th, 2008 8:50 am ET

O and H need each other. Symbiotic feeding frenzy. Both of these candidates have tainted the campaign process. Caucus overload.

Natasha   February 27th, 2008 8:49 am ET

Hillary makes me sick.. after yesterdays ticker news it seems to me she is trying to play on the underlying bigoted feelings in this nation and someone should reject AND denounce her for that!

SallyJo M.   February 27th, 2008 8:49 am ET

As a Jewish American who has family in Chicago that have worked with Sen Obama, I think I have more credibility on this topic to comment. Obama is no Anti-Semite. He has consistently proven (when it was not popular) that he supports my Jewish brothers and sisters. He fundamentally gets the point that we have been attacked and continue to be attacked for our core beliefs and that we are the best friend of the great USA.

Knowing his background, I was extremely upset by the question and the implication by Tim Russert and I intend to write a letter to him and NBC President today. I think this round of destructive questioning is not good for the democracy. There is no doubt by anyone in the Jewish community who knows the work of Sen Obama that he will be one of our staunchiest allies.

Manuel   February 27th, 2008 8:48 am ET

Americans are so naive.Here is a guy who has reluctantly rejected Farrakhan.What else do you need folks?
Obama wore a purely Islamic outfit known as the Turban and you ignorant CNN folks are calling it African attire? You guys are blantantly ignorant and ridiculous.

Dem123   February 27th, 2008 8:48 am ET

Hillary ,please run as an independent if the primary is won by the cult.You have millions of supporters who are ready to support you all the way.
HILLARY 2008.

LB   February 27th, 2008 8:48 am ET

I hardly call her ;'needng' Senator Obama to use the word 'reject' over the word 'denounce' a 'hit'. There was nothing striking about this to me. It seemed just another area where she was trying to gain an advantage that she just doesn't have. Sort of pathetic actually….

O NO she didn't imply   February 27th, 2008 8:48 am ET

Why is Hillary suggestive in her derrogatory comments?!!

The moderator asked Senator Obama, "… are you alright ; can I get you anything?" His comment was overshadowed by her saying , "He may need some pillows."
Senator Obama is not a D/L (DownLow) activist. He is happily and manly married to his one wife. He does not mix nor does he mingles.

Hillary shame on you! His houshold is not like yours! There is no didrt!

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 8:48 am ET

Hillary great debate……………………………..08…………………………………………

CNN excellent …………………………………………………………………………………….

obama…………………………….loser

forrest kimbrough   February 27th, 2008 8:46 am ET

mrs clinton should have denounced and rejected her husband along time ago..what he did many times is far worse than anything farrakan has ever done

DG   February 27th, 2008 8:44 am ET

How about focusing on how to run the country instead of debating the difference between denouncing and rejecting someone's support.

Steven, FL   February 27th, 2008 8:44 am ET

Has anyone look at the definition, Obama said the right thing. He is the best choice. Hilary is grasping at straws. It's over, time to look to November.
de·nounce /dɪˈnaʊns/ Pronunciation Key – Show Spelled Pronunciation[di-nouns] Pronunciation Key – Show IPA Pronunciation
–verb (used with object), -nounced, -nounc·ing. 1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.
2. to make a formal accusation against, as to the police or in a court.
3. to give formal notice of the termination or denial of (a treaty, pact, agreement, or the like).
4. Archaic. to announce or proclaim, esp. as something evil or calamitous.
5. Obsolete. to portend.

Obamalamadingdong   February 27th, 2008 8:44 am ET

As far as media bias goes, why is it that for every photo CNN selects to post of Obama looking thoughtful they pick 3 of Clinton making a grimace? I've been keeping count. Get real CNN! We've had enough of bias in reporting. Leave that game to FOX.

Leslie   February 27th, 2008 8:43 am ET

Why every time a black person run for office they have to answer questions on Farrakhan? Whites are not asked about their racist counter parts?

Bill   February 27th, 2008 8:42 am ET

Well, in this case…

Obama and smart people – 1

Hillary and people who don't understand what reject means – 0

T   February 27th, 2008 8:41 am ET

Is this really what's going to save this country? Bickering about denounce vs reject? I guess it depends on what your definition of 'is' is.

Mandi Locke   February 27th, 2008 8:41 am ET

What is wrong with this woman? She is really grasping at straws. She is suggesting that Barack Obama has evil ties to Islam, which implies that he supports terroism, which is totally absurd. Her tactic is fear. I don't know about you, but I've had enough scare tactics over the past seven years, thank you very much. Hillary Clinton is not capable of solving conflict, she is only capable of creating it.

Jack   February 27th, 2008 8:40 am ET

Comment by Jason, "ANYONE that doesn't tolerate the differences of the world's religion, should not be tolerated AT ALL!"
Actually you must convert to Islam or they will chop off your head.
I do not tolerate this difference. I reject and denounce this kind of thinking completely. It is a relegion that will not "Tolerate" any other relegion. So…by your own statement you see it should not be tolerated AT ALL.
I would also reject and denounce endorsements from Farrakhan, Wright and Kennedy.

Mariah   February 27th, 2008 8:40 am ET

Hello Linda and go green and others! First, LEARN TO SPELL RIDICULOUS and then to THINK!!!
A VOTE FOR OBAMA IS A VOTE FOR FARAKHAN AND JEREMIAH WRIGHT!!!

player9   February 27th, 2008 8:40 am ET

Hillary,

NEWS FLASH! Reject and denounce in the context that Obama used it, is the same thing. Actuallly, denounce is a stronger meaning. Hillary you told Obama to meet you in Ohio and he did. You showed your true colors last night. Maybe before you ask for more debates you will practices and know what you are talking about. Healthcare is not the only issue in the world. Sorry Hillary! You are not what America needs.

Just Me   February 27th, 2008 8:40 am ET

Game… Set… Match… Obama

Di   February 27th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Obama lies with every breath!!!

Jules   February 27th, 2008 8:38 am ET

I thought Obama's acknowledgement of the contributions and efforts of Jewish Americans during the Civil Rights Movement was great and dead on.

Brian   February 27th, 2008 8:38 am ET

We have already elected an individual with very limited foreign affair experience. It makes me nervous that we are heading down the same path again.

When hiring someone to work at a management level within your company, responsible for profits, the employment of hundreds or thousands of individuals, and the public image of the company, do you select the individual to with 'proven' experience in a similar capacity who is well versed, or, do you select the individual with 'limited' proven experience who makes broad sweeping statements.

With jobs, profits, and public image in mind, I select the qualified candidate with proven experience. Do you?

Sue Williams   February 27th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Obahma made a coment on companys who send jobs out of the country he is from Illinois Caterpillar is a billion dollar company and they have moved a lot of jobs out of the state and country and he hasn't done one thing about that and the company who is suppose to care gives Millions of dollars to a lot of organisations but yet they now take money from their workers and retirees for health insurance and the retirees are almost unable to live with their retirement checks being cut every year Cat does not care about anyone but cat and obahma has not done anything for the ILLINOIS PEOPLE HOW CAN HE HELP THE USA

brown   February 27th, 2008 8:37 am ET

Touche Hillary!!!!

Each time you try to undercut him he turns your bitter lemons to Lemonade.

Meanwhile – what planet does she live on???

WHO'S EMPLOYER AUTOMATICALLY SIGNS THEM UP FOR A 401K PLAN? That is why we are embarking on the biggest Retirement short coming EVER. All of the baby boomers that saw their parents have automatic retirement funds – are going to be left in the cold because employers do NOT automatically sign employees up for the plan.

Has she gone completely MAD – upon my word woman get your facts straight and FIRE your hand picked STAFF (another example of her poor judgement!!!

Mary   February 27th, 2008 8:37 am ET

HILLARY CLINTON has what is takes to next American president.
She has heart, poise, intelligence, experience and most of all honestly and no empty words.
Okama on the other hand only has empty words. He MAY look good and but has no substance. WAKE UP AMERICA.

WORDS ARE EMPTY , HILLARY IS REAL AS REAL as you can get.
Remember if you choose the wrong candidate again you will have another GEORGE BUSH.
Go Hillary
America please think with you common sense and you will be the winners.
I hope to se my comment published or it will appear to me that you only print if it positive for Obama. I will be keeping track.

jimhenry   February 27th, 2008 8:36 am ET

As a Jewish American, Obama wasn't quick enough to denounce or reject Farrakhan or even worse, his own Minister Wright. If my rabbi made racist comments, I would walk out of my synagogue and find myself a new one. I find this very troubling.
HILLARY 2008 SORRY OBAMA

jw arkansas   February 27th, 2008 8:36 am ET

theGOP will swift-boat obama back to the land of his ROOTS.

kim   February 27th, 2008 8:36 am ET

obama is no different than any other politician, he can make all the promises he wants, this doesnt mean it will happen, and when it doesnt those who are singing his praises will be the ones ready to throw him under the bus. no candidate can guarantee you anything, democrat or republican. obama is not a saint people neither is hillary, its all mudslinging , thats the way they have always done it. people get so caught up in the junior high he said she said, and as usual thats all that is talked about. we can only have hope for our country , love and provide for our families the best we can

Irishspacemonk   February 27th, 2008 8:36 am ET

Can I just say, Am I the only one glad the debates are over???

Reynold   February 27th, 2008 8:36 am ET

For Asians, we are not so childish to be swinged by the person with only words

Upstate Deb   February 27th, 2008 8:35 am ET

I have stated it here before and will again. If Senator Obama wins the nomination, I will fly my flag upside down – the recognized sign of distress.

God help the USA if the "American Idol", "Ba-Rock Star" mentality doesn't die its much-delayed death. Common sense must return to our political system, and pick the candidate best prepared for the next 8 years.

Hillary Clinton, our next President – tough, savvy, and best qualified.

Denounce   February 27th, 2008 8:35 am ET

Denounce is a more formal and educated way of saying Reject. They both have the same meaning, and Hillary was just being picky. Typical of silly season in politics. Why does this even matter to anyone? It's a non issue, but people make it an issue to stir up utter nonsense. To Denounce or Reject will not change Farrakhan's support.

Obama 08′

Steve   February 27th, 2008 8:35 am ET

Barack Obama koolaid, youre all drinking it…

1) What does he stand for, besides CHANGE
2) What has he accomplished
3) What is his foreign policy knowledge
4) Why didnt he denounce the war in 2004 or subsequent funding bills

AND WHAT HAS HE GOT BESIDES A GOOD SPEECH and HOPE

Nothing! Which is why, for the first time in 24 yrs, im voting GOP….

Enough of this "Fairy Tale" and the media slobbering all over him

Deana   February 27th, 2008 8:34 am ET

Anybody upset about this really just needs to GROW UP, really.

GO Hillary!   February 27th, 2008 8:34 am ET

he is a coward!

wycliffe   February 27th, 2008 8:34 am ET

DENOUNCE:(meriam-webster dictionary):-
to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil
to announce threateningly

REJECT:
to refuse to hear, receive, or admit

Can anyone tell me which word is stronger

Dan   February 27th, 2008 8:34 am ET

Barack acted shrewdly, and smartly. It, of course, isn't helpful to outright "reject" Farrakhan's endorsement, as there will be a small segment of the black community would be upset by this. So, he smartly evaded the outright rejection, until he saw Hillary trying to make an issue out of it, at which point, he played his trump card, and ended up making her look a little silly.

I think someone in Barrack's campaign should make sure they get a reporter to ask Hillary "If you win the nomination, will you reject the endorsement of Ann Coulter?"

RegieC   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

These debates are about issues that affect ALL of us! (at least they should be…) You know things like Iraq, our energy policy, economy, Foreign policy, the environment, the ongoing Housing/Forclosure meltdown!

Please tell me what the H3!! does Farrakan have to do with any of the above?? These are things that affect us right now!

Hillary,
The only way you and Bill are getting into the White House is if you take the tour!!!

Stick a fork in her, Ladies and Gents She's DONE!

CL in Florida   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

People, please read the article. Farrakhan did not endorse Obama. He merely gave him credit for uniting the people.

Read the whole article.

K   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

I watched this debate and the end result : Hillary Clinton lost. All she did was do what girls do when they want to play with the boys and things don't quite go their way……THEY WHINE, THEY COMPLAIN, THEY CRY. Moral to the story….play your position, stay in your lane. If you can't handle man things don't aspire for man things, Hillary is desperate with nothing else to offer but complaints. Did you hear her when she was upset because they ask her the question first, are you kidding? her actions clearly show she is not ready to run anything especially the white house and this nation.

Eric and Beth   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

I hope people DO SEE the difference between denouncing (or condemning) a person's support and out right refusing (not accepting) a person's support. As there are clear differences between the two words… AND NO HILLARY CLINTON DOES NOT NEED A DICTIONARY AS MUCH AS BARAK NEEDS TO TAKE A CLEAR OUTRIGHT STAND ON REJECTING THE SUPPORT FROM THIS EXTREMELY DENOUNCEABLE INDIVIDUAL!!!!

See It's one thing to denounce (condemn) a man's support (i.e., neither accepting or refusing it, just saying it's evil) and there is anothering thing about REFUSING (denying the acceptance of) that support. And while people thing Hillary is grabbing at straws… I want a president who will out right refuse this without making the political safe road by accepting everyone's support. This is the kind of heroism that Barak lacks. He even admitted he should have stood up and taken a different position but did nothing. That's Barak the do nothing change as usual president! I for one think it's time to give an intelligent woman who is a smart and very articulate diplomat… someone who will be able to function and not say yea what she said.

Go Hillary '08!!!

GO Hillary!   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

if America doesn't get Hillary Clinton as the next president it is our fault and we don't deserve her.

Obama sounds like Osama
His middle name is that of the most evil man, next to Hitler
and he is aligned with some of the most ridiculous supporters who he won't say NO and reject their votes…..

all to win?
it is truly a sad day for America.

Andy   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

What I love the most about this campaign is that the American people are not allowing the media nor trash from the Clinton's to alter their choice. Stay strong America because our support for Obama has the fat cats of Washington scared. Their afraid that Obama will give us, "We the people" a voice once again in our government.

John Stevens   February 27th, 2008 8:33 am ET

I do question Obama why he still goes to a church that gives an award to Farrakhan. It would to a mainstream American – black or white or polka dotted – be the last straw.

Put a bullet Through Obama's Head   February 27th, 2008 8:32 am ET

I honestly wish someone would shoot this demagogue.

Marc   February 27th, 2008 8:32 am ET

Oh, this is politics. You know we don't care for either one of em.

The only reason people like Obama is because he lies to them with a smile on his face. :)

Erika   February 27th, 2008 8:32 am ET

Why denounce or reject a statement of support? If a guy who dislikes jews can support a man of African decent, then I'd think that's a good thing.

Sharon, Orlando   February 27th, 2008 8:32 am ET

There is a bigger picture here. Barack Obama consistently speaks from both sides of his mouth. One only has to look at the website of the church he has been attending for over 20 years and realize what his beliefs are. However, he distanced himself from his pastor and friend when he decided to run for president. He also courted the black vote upon entering South Carolina and Louisiana; however, when it really mattered he was a no-show at the New Orleans Black Forum. Seems to me his aim is to simply get every vote no matter where it comes from in order to win this election – even from the Nation of Islam. All th at matters is that Barack Obama wins. I have a feeling he will be a different person if he gets in the White House. Perhaps then we will see his true colors and know who he really is. In contrast, look at how quickly John McCain rejected the remarks of the radio talk show host? That's integrity!

scott   February 27th, 2008 8:31 am ET

ONe more thing to say I noticed someone asked who is Farrakhan anyway. Just so you know he is the Black version of David Duke. and the man that the MLK family has tried to sue over having part in the Killing of MLK. so he could have more of the speaking power.

Three Men and a Lady   February 27th, 2008 8:31 am ET

Why is CNN closing comments on most of the blogs? Afraid some truth about Obama might slip through? Well, last night we got to see what it looked like for three men to gang up on one woman. Tim Russert was harsh and obnoxious and totally rude to Hillary. He badgered her to commit to timelines that were hypothetical.

As usual he soft stepped his way around Obama. I felt that the beginning clips were extremely biased towards Hillary. I am also sick of Obama piggy backing off of Hillary's answers (the last debate was full of those moments). She stood up for herself and should be commended for holding her own against three men that do not want to see her succeed. I know that I'm not alone in this sentiment.

CLINTON SUPPORTERS IN TEXAS, OHIO AND RHODE ISLAND PLEASE STAND UP FOR US IN NEXT WEEKS PRIMARIES!

corin   February 27th, 2008 8:30 am ET

My question hillary! Why did it take 18 debates later for you to state that you wish you couldve took back your iraq vote?You could have denounce and rejected it in your first debate!!!!!!!!!!! ……i guess that now was your perfect opportunity since your losing.

J   February 27th, 2008 8:30 am ET

So will Hillary be rejecting and denouncing Ann Coulter's endorsement?

Coby Austin, Texas   February 27th, 2008 8:30 am ET

Obama crushed Hillary, hands down. It was hilarious!!

LadyLeo   February 27th, 2008 8:30 am ET

I am sure all the candidates have someone supporting them that may have a negative impact on them. The point is according to the Consitution of the U.S. everyone has a right to vote and who are we to tell them who to support or vote for. I really think this was not a wise question, they could have spent this time on the economy– .

Michele   February 27th, 2008 8:29 am ET

It seemed a bit out of desperation on Hilary's part that she'd reach for one word over another. As did it seem out of desperation when she was consistenly trying to get in the last word, as it should be, because I think that's she's finally realizing that these indeed may be her final words during this campaign trail. This debate definitely tipped in Obama's favor and has proved that there are plenty of solutions offered by Senator Obama other than what Senator Clinton has claimed to be just talk. He can talk the talk as well as walk the walk. Well done Senator Obama.

Coonsey   February 27th, 2008 8:29 am ET

Out of the whole debate the only thing you can headline is this comment about Farrackhan? The difference between denouncing and rejecting?

It's no wonder people are having trouble believing you media.

What about Hillary's OUTBURST/WHINING during a Presidential debate about being asked the first question and talking about a TV show? Now THAT'S news.

Wake up media. This woman COULD have her finger on the button someday soon.

Here In Britain   February 27th, 2008 8:29 am ET

"Shannon, Charlottesville, Virginia February 26th, 2008 11:24 pm ET

tonight's debate made one thing clear: clinton represents politics as usual, something we're all sick of, and obama, a new style of politics, where we come together on common causes rather than dividing on intolerances."

Another sucker who can't see that Obama iis politcis as usual as well.

You are going to be in for one hell of a disappointment if Obama gets elected.

Brian   February 27th, 2008 8:29 am ET

Let's play a game called 'Name Senator Obama's Achievements While in the Senate'. Ready, go. Let's take this one step further, and name Senator Obama's achievements that he spear-headed, rather than supported.

Anonymous   February 27th, 2008 8:29 am ET

Oh, these people drinking the poisonous Barack koolaid…

what does he stand for?
what has he accomplished?
what is his experience?
how is he going to stand up to GOP and mudslinging….
how is he going to defend his votes funding the war

And finally, i will pay more taxes as he "redistributes the wealth"…i never thought id say this before…but if hillary loseS, im voting GOP

Ret.Vet.   February 27th, 2008 8:29 am ET

Well, Well, Well lets move on.
YES WE CAN

darth vader is cool (and dead)   February 27th, 2008 8:28 am ET

This question goes along with many questions in the debate, like how the moderator framed Clinton's NAFTA question, this question along with others only point was to try and sling mud at the canidates it was not Hardball, it was lowball

The thing about the question i found abonmitable was that Clinton took the low question that Obama answered well (i don't support his anti-semetic views and i have fought against them, but i cann't tell someone who supports me because i am a unifier that he cannot support me) into a big political attack on obama. Clinton took a unfair question and attacked obama on it. She has lost my respect and vote with that.

ps i support Mccain

Suzanne Where votes don't count in Florida   February 27th, 2008 8:27 am ET

There were so many issues that could have been addressed last night at the debate…but with Tim Russert trying to catch the
"big fish" as he puts it, they dumbed down the questions to fit Obama's intellectual laziness.

Why do you think Senator Clinton made the comment on "why do I always get the first question"?
She knew why she gets the first question.
It's because if he can't feed off of Senator Clinton's answer first, he doesn't know how to answer them.
His lack of knowledge on foreign policy is quite frightening.

Why is it when a female addresses an issue it's complaining?

The best part was when someone finally called him to task on his affiliation with Louis Farrakhan,& the support Farrakhan gives to him, he stuttered all over himself, I think a lot of Jewish American people will take note of his facial expressions ,he was very uncomfortable.

The biased good old boys of the political round tables can't write the obituary yet!!

Keep fighting Texas & Ohio

sheila jones   February 27th, 2008 8:27 am ET

I am surprised that CNN makes it so obvious that they are for Barac Obama. Anderson Cooper and the CNN political team have left no doubt that they are for Obama. Why not start saying something positive about Hillary Clinton and her campaign. She deserves it, too!

301   February 27th, 2008 8:26 am ET

Uneducated Voter = HIllary forced him to say "Reject" because he wasn't taking a strong enough position!

Educated Voter = Denounce is a stronger word than reject…what's your point?

At least HIllary understands where she's getting her votes.
As a McCain supporter, I applaud Obama's 'strategery' and denounce Clinton's 'trickeration'.

Keisha   February 27th, 2008 8:26 am ET

There was no endorsement by Farrakhan. He was only commenting on Barack Obama's ability to heal this nation and bring the country together towards a more positive direction. Obama handled this questioned well and looked VERY Presidential. Hillary showed her true colors… whiny, rude, temperamental, emotional, and out of control…America cant afford this risk this time around!

Mike Con   February 27th, 2008 8:26 am ET

Seems like they always ask the African American about Minister Louis Farrakhan but they never ask the caucasian about controversial or negative comments that caucasian's make. For example, why didn't they ask Hillary about the "lynching" comments that Bill O'Reilly said about Michelle Obama or what about what the radio personality said today while introducing John McCain to an audience of supporters? I think the question was designed to bring Obama down. Same old backstabbing politics and this is what we're all tired of! I can't wait for Obama to wipe McCain off the floor!!!

jason twombley   February 27th, 2008 8:25 am ET

More whining from Billary..GEEZ, does this woman EVER stop whining ?? America is in huge trouble if she becomes President !!!

noemi   February 27th, 2008 8:25 am ET

To all the Barak fever stricken take it easy it was a good debate and the way I saw it they both need each other to win the White House. Barak needs to fight because if he doesn't the Republicans will hammer us again and we will lose the White House – again.

Walt, Belton,TX   February 27th, 2008 8:25 am ET

On second thought, how about seeing Hillary and Slick Willie's last seven years of tax returns, so we can see how much they really got for all those end of tour Presidential pardons? Couple that with what they got in terms of "legal" contributions to her campaign funds and it will show the world how to buy a President!

Yeah, it'll never happen and the ignorant will probably never care………

Get Real!   February 27th, 2008 8:25 am ET

For those that say they'll quit their church if the pastor/minister says/do something that's offensive, tell me, why is the Catholic church still in business? Why are most conservative churches – Pat Robertson, Oral Roberts, Jimmy Swaggart, etc still in business?

You have nothing on Obama! You complainers are grabbing on straws.

Troy-Boston   February 27th, 2008 8:24 am ET

Obama looked extremely weak and confused last night. I guess he was expecting another "friendly" debate. He stuttered way to many times. He also "completely agreed with Hillary" on many of the issues. I guess gov. Patrick was not there to write his answers.

Sharon   February 27th, 2008 8:24 am ET

Vast right wing conspiracy. Is it now a vast 'left' wing conspiracy? The media is against 'us. No 'evidence' that my campaign planted that photograph. Won't release documents. Sound familiar? Good job to Obama in handling the Clinton crap with grace and intelligence.

Tesa P   February 27th, 2008 8:23 am ET

Why is this an issue. I do not understand why this is an issue. Is America scared that if Obama will somehow conspire with Minister Farrakhan for some type of ethnic cleansing in America? I men come on stop it, Is white America really that afraid of the minister, because this is not an issue in the black community.

However the issue of the civil rights paper Clinton wrote when she was in college is an issue, why did her husband have it sealed, what is she hiding?????

As far as the relationship between the black community and the jewish community, well what happened is this. Blacks are always being told let slavery go… but in America we acknowledge and apologize for the holocaust……. America even gave money to the surviving victims, somehow it felt like a slap in the face to blacks in America.

RC Lendz   February 27th, 2008 8:23 am ET

There is a difference in reject v. denounce in this case. Obama basically said that he does not approve of what Farrakhan says, but left out that he did reject his endorsement. At least not a first. Only when pressed hard by Clinton, did he say he rejects the endorsement.

What Clinton did there, making her opponent back down, is a great sign of a great President.

Jerry griffin   February 27th, 2008 8:23 am ET

I don't understand the whole Farrakhan question. Who care if the man like Obama? We do know there are a lot of white people who wants to kill him, that is why he got Secret Service protection early. There are racist people in both party. Go Obama !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ceetip   February 27th, 2008 8:22 am ET

I think this whole issue of Louis Farrakham is quite troubling. BO still attends the church where his pastor accepts the rantings of this man. BO church would not even make his dead white mother feel welcome. I was thinking of voting for BO but not now not ever. This man is scary.

manny james marietta ga   February 27th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Glad I didn't watch the debate. I will not give MSNBC another moment of my time. They are clearly backing Obama. With one exception, Dan Abrams.. There ratings have been tumbling since New Hampshire. glad to see Hillary started taking the MEdia on. However, it may be to late. She should have been durning this all along.. I still support Hillary. I will never vote for Obama..

Dusacre   February 27th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Denounce is actually stronger than reject. Many of our words have latin roots, denounce comme from the verb "Denuntiare" in latin which is multirelational hence public.

Z.R., Winston-Salem, NC   February 27th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Hillary Clinton feels that she is losing against Barak Obama. She is desperate to argue and criticise the tiniest things.

She appears like her husband used to when he siad: "It depends what the word 'IS' means." Don't we all know what the word 'IS' means?

Also, I doubt that in today's political arena either Gandhi or MLK would win. Their peaceful approach and attitude would not create the media circus shareholders (and the public) want to see…

yns   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

Hillary was quite savvy in getting O to concede. Why did he not denounce/reject this when first asked? Do you want a presdent who will give in so easily? He was quite quick to concede! What a whimp!

Walt, Belton,TX   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

How about we just reject Hillary on general principles? That goes for slick Willie too………..

Don't be Ignorant   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

About this word choice thing: 'denounce' is actually a stronger word in this case than 'reject'. As the very astute senator from Illinois pointed out, Farrakhan had not made any sort of offers of support that Obama could reject. That's why he 'denounced' Farrakhan's statements. You don't 'reject' statements, you 'denounce' them. I guess Clinton's experience doesn't include much reading (maybe that's why she never read the Iraq report?).

Jay   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

Clinton's point was that Obama did not reject his support immediately. He had a long winded answer not to offend anyone without any real substance. That is worrisome to me!!!

Rejct/Denounce – the words dont matter. It is the fact that he was not strong in his response to Tim Russet question – Do you reject his support? He said denouce, not reject (as a way to be less stern)

Austin in Illinois   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

Hmmm…. I kinda feel like Hillary won that debate, which is a shame.

Leonardo   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

Hillary Clinton plays dirty and unfair, Obama stays fair and nice.
I can't trust the Clintons anymore. Im very disapointet about how the Clintons play at this campaign.

Evan   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

I don't know. I have been rejected many times when asking someone out for a date or a dance but I have never been denounced. I think being denounced is a lot worse than rejeced.

But who am I to know that reject is worse than denounced, because I don't have the money to afford college!

Common this is a non-issue and for CNN to put it out there is wrong and for Hillary to nickle and dime Obama for it is a cheap play from the Republican Play Book and written by Carl Rove.

Natasha M. in KY   February 27th, 2008 8:20 am ET

It is actually stronger to 'denounce' something than to just 'reject' something. Look the definitions up in the dictionary Hillary!

Obama '08

freddie   February 27th, 2008 8:19 am ET

this is ridicolous. she cant even manage her own campaign, what kind of experience is she then talking about. 11 straight loses? may be she strongly needs Farrakhans endorsement

LIZ   February 27th, 2008 8:18 am ET

Clinton actually won the debate because she discussed issues like average people would at the coffee chop. Obama still speaks eloquently but says very little…If he becomes President and the U. S. gets sideways with another country, maybe he can talk them to death…

Ms. Miami   February 27th, 2008 8:18 am ET

Youuu Gooooo Barack, make Hillary look like a Fool

Joe   February 27th, 2008 8:18 am ET

coOol! Bow! amAzing! booM! yeAh!
all capital letters make OBAMA.

Lawrence   February 27th, 2008 8:18 am ET

It's very interesting to see how the Clinton fanatics have embraced the lies and smears of the infamous e-mail. Tim Russert gives them the gift of some old fashioned race-baiting and yet they still act like the media is against them. Can we finish this already? I'm tired of listening to this pitiful element of the party.

Sally   February 27th, 2008 8:17 am ET

Why should he alienate himself from Black people? He answered the question correctly…denounce and reject mean the same samething. In fact, denounce is a stronger word. It appears that America is going in the direction to get Sen. Obama to isolate and alienate himself from Black people. Soon, the argument will be that he's been around too many black people lately. Sen. Obama has always said that he wanted to negotiate with his alies as well as the enimies..even Fidel Catro who has killed many of innocent people, unlike Farrakhan….so why should Farrakhan be an exception. Trent Lott still endorses McCain, but no one is questioning why is Trent Lott endorsing McCain and the racial implications that goes along with it. As a white female, I think the Hillary needs to get a grip and bow out of the campaign.

Go Obama!

Michael James   February 27th, 2008 8:17 am ET

It is ludicrous to say that Obama is not being favored in this election. I am a news junkie and read 5 newspapers a day and watch the major channels news shows. I have been stunned by seeming favoritism towards Obama. The only major news people to come out and say it and take the media to task for their favoritism are Dan Abrams of MSNBC and Geraldo Rivera. Abrams said "You guys simply do not like the Clinton story." If SNL made fun of this favoritism (hysterical) it means that it is there. The best comedy arises out of truth.

PA   February 27th, 2008 8:16 am ET

There is a very significant difference between denounce and reject. One can denounce another's opinions and still accept their support. Barack has rejected the support of Minister Farrakhan and those who follow him. Hillary backed him into spurning the support of the man. Wonder how Minister Farrakhan feels about that? I don't like or agree with what you say is not the same thing as go away, I don't want any of your help.

Carrie   February 27th, 2008 8:15 am ET

Typical Obama, playing the middle road instead of taking a stand. He only conceded to "reject" Farrakhan AFTER Clinton called him out on it. She had it right – Obama is unable to stand up for what's important. He would be a weak leader because in his effort to please everyone he would please no one.

Charlotte   February 27th, 2008 8:15 am ET

Hill is clearly in panic mode and is saying and doing everything she can to smear Obama. The thing about that is she is making herself look bad and Democrats are moving further away from her and her negative campaign. She is desperate. Next thing you know she will be lifing up her shirt and yelling, "Obama doesn't have these, does he?"

As a Dem, I was torn between the two but have moved very quickly away from her, as has most of the people I know. She will lose to Obama and she will only have herself to blame.

Obama Supporter, Indiana

PJ   February 27th, 2008 8:15 am ET

Obama didn't "denounce" the support of Farrakahn, he denounced what he stood for. When Russert asked him point blank if he would reject the support, he waffled on the answer and didn't say no. It was only when Hillary said in a similar situation she completely rejected the support that Obama got a clue about what he would say.

And stop with the "shame on you's" everyone, it's getting annoying and fairly unoriginal.

Sue Williams   February 27th, 2008 8:14 am ET

I have said ever since day one that the Media has been against Clinton It is about time we let a woman try to run this country look how many years men have messed it up Obahma has not the age or experience to run this country and at least when we had a
clinton in office things turned around I have been a Democrat all my life but if Obahma makes it I will vote Republican and I am from Illinois and it is sad what the media has done to Clinton always putting her down the Media is almost made up their mind who they want to win and try to sway the public to do the same. The one thing that really makes me mad is people saying he is Like JFK NO WAY he never could fit JFK's shoes he never even served this country and doesn't have even the knoledge JFK had.

Jon, Pittsburgh, PA   February 27th, 2008 8:14 am ET

It's not petty if you are Jewish and I find it interesting that Obama didn't reject Farrakhan until pressed to do so. Nice try at walking that tightrope Barack but, intelligent people can see straight through you. You are as political as a person can be.

Thomas, St. Petersburg, FL   February 27th, 2008 8:13 am ET

As a bleeding heart Republican, I never thought I'd find myself defending the Clintons, but here goes…

I am quite dismayed by the ruthless treatment Senator Clinton has been receiving by the media within the last few months.

Is it my imagination, or doesn't it seem like a short time ago when most Democrats and media outlets replied to Bill and Hillary's indescretions with "OH, YET ANOTHER VAST RIGHT WING CONSPIRACY" by those nasty Republicans.

My, how times have changed. I have labelled such people (i.e., liberals who now support Obama and detest the Clintons) as CLINTON'S TURNCOATS.

CLINTON STRONG   February 27th, 2008 8:12 am ET

HIllary won the debate..CNN do you truly have anything else to say or do?

Howard, NY   February 27th, 2008 8:12 am ET

Hillary for Parser in Chief!

con in PA   February 27th, 2008 8:12 am ET

Obama said right away he denounced Farrakan, his views and language. He went into detail about Isreal, anti-semetics, and he denounced again, Farrakan and his views and language. Hillary TRIED to take the negative and used the word "reject". Obama then reitterated he DENOUNCED Farrakan, but is Hillary needed the word "reject" then he would denounc and rejected him.
It was another failed attempt by Hillary to attack Obama. Barak used his calm demeanor, his intellect, and his intelligence to defuse a situation that Hillary was trying to build into a negative.
What a great President he will make!! The ability to communicate, to diffuse rising emotions, and to LEAD EFFECTIVELY doesn't always come with experience!
What a great President he will make!

Jeff   February 27th, 2008 8:11 am ET

They did not ask Hillary Clinton about comments made by Bill OReilly and Bill Cunningham because they did NOT endorse her candidacy. And by the way, if you cared to check the news, McCain, whom Cunningham endorsed, was asked about those comments and he said he did not support them. On the other hand, Obama was endorsed by Farrakhan. That is why Clinton brought it up. By the way, when is using a person's middle name a problem? Some people must have a little guilty conscience if Cunningham calling Obama by his full name offended them. Geez, don't turn this in to a black and white thing. That is petty and insipid.

Patick   February 27th, 2008 8:10 am ET

Denounce; to proclaim; to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil; to announce threateningly; to inform against; to announce formally the termination of (as a treaty).

Reject; to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose, or use; to refuse to hear, receive, or admit; to refuse as lover or spouse; to cast off; to spew out.

I think Denouce makes a stronger case!

Vega Diamond   February 27th, 2008 8:10 am ET

this is just proof that he is able to work with people all over and work on uniting people who usually wouldn't unite or even take the time to deal with the other

midge from ohio   February 27th, 2008 8:10 am ET

This is just another case for the fact that Obama can seem to do no wrong, and I just don't get it. Somehow Farrakhan saw "hope" in him also, and that scares me. He is not strong enough to run this country. Republicans know McCain is their candidate so they vote in the primaries as a Democrat and vote for Obama because they don't want McCain running against Clinton. It was on the news the other night. Do your research please.

Chris in TX   February 27th, 2008 8:10 am ET

sheesh. This from the woman that says words don't matter? :)

BMW   February 27th, 2008 8:09 am ET

The more I get exposed to Obama, the more I am impressed by his poise, professionalism, and leadership. The more I get exposed to Clinton the more I am annoyed and turned off by her petty tactics, mood swings, and adaptive policies and politics. She keeps nit picking at Obama and it continues to backfire, you would have thought that she'd learn from her mistakes but it just continues to get worse. I hope Ohio and Texas take note and end this campaign so that the Democratic party can move forward and work towards a Presidential Campaign.

William   February 27th, 2008 8:08 am ET

I think that Barack did an excellent job when responding to this question. He showed that he is in fact "Presidential". He was very calm and did not over react.

Eugene   February 27th, 2008 8:08 am ET

With this all open war media has declared against Hillary, I wonder why she continues staying in the campaing…this s not democracy…this is a false state of democracy where media can distort every record and yet people get somewhat blind…God save USA!!!!

Alan   February 27th, 2008 8:07 am ET

Why is CNN wasting valuable front page space over stupid things like this when there is still a war in Iraq, war in Africa, war everywhere! I'm so sick of this I'm going to change my start page to the guardian!

Matt   February 27th, 2008 8:07 am ET

Is CNN just jealous that a real action debate didnt occur on their own network, but on a rival network?

Obama owned Hillary in this instance as well as most of the night and when Hillary "tried" to make a big deal of this issue, Obama again showed why he is superior to her in debates.

What now !!   February 27th, 2008 8:06 am ET

obama had better make that the last extra pillow he gets. Send her a pillow thru the mail. She's feeling like she' s being picked on and not praised.. so please somebody send Hillary a pillow she's having a menopausal moment and she's pissed off so Obama will suffer. Why not just ask for a pillow. It's the media's fault that she's not treated and respected as a " queen".

It's not fair that you all ask Hillary the questions first even though she said a couple of debates back " to bring on the questions". She's fully prepared and ready to meet any and all questions head on. "Ladies first Hillary". I am just sick of the debates because she's an aggressor and she shows off all of her attorney skills. Investigating for proable(people) cause, presenting invalid evidence, irrelevant facts that may incrimnate the opponent , wanting more pillows for the alleged victim..give me a break..if she can't do anything else she can sure as hell argue anything .. even who endorses who.. that have nothing to do with her campaign. She is a true motherly individual and that's what i saw last night…. don't do this Obama , don't do that Obama..shame on you Obama.. Go to time out Obama… don't say that like that Obama.. a true woman. The debate was an informercial,on what Obama can't do, per hillary.

Meredith   February 27th, 2008 8:04 am ET

It's all about what the definition of "is" is right?

Pretty reminiscent no?

dEE   February 27th, 2008 8:04 am ET

Obama is a supporter of Louis Farrakan and that is why he would not reject him. His pastor is also a supporter of Farrakhan and Obama supports his pastor. Hillary's point was well taken and Obama tried to make a joke of it. But is is a serious issue.

Fred   February 27th, 2008 8:04 am ET

I find it interesting that of all that was discussed in last night's debate, CNN chooses to focus upon the Farrakan issue. Farrakan is widely recognized as an extremist. Frankly, it is interesting that the topic was actually introduced. Could it be that the powerful Israeli Lobby influenced MSNBC to toss this issue into the debate? What about the real third rail of the Israeli occupation of Palestine and the daily atrocities being committed by the Israeli government against the Palestinian people? Curious!!!

Sarah Smith   February 27th, 2008 8:03 am ET

Latinos in Tejas and industry workers in Ohio..

don't REALLY want to see another 4 years of Clinton ANTICS in the white house!

Bill is dying to get another $800 – wait! indexed for inflation that would be – $1,400 haircut!

Shaun   February 27th, 2008 8:02 am ET

CNN, I think it is interesting that at almost 8:00 a.m., the morning after the debate, and despite all of the issues raised during the debate, this story — with its oddly worded heading — remains the "top" story on the ticker. Although it appeared last night, it states that it was posted at "6:08 a.m." this morning, with no suggestion it was updated since being originally posted last night. It "somehow" became elevated over all other debate stories. Interesting.

Amada   February 27th, 2008 8:01 am ET

Farrakhan is trly anti-semitic and racist.
and obama should have denounced AND rejected his endorsement when it was first made public.
haveing that kind of endorsement truly is – bad.

still it was great for hillary to point this out.
because a leader should never support bad people.

clinton 08

Joseph   February 27th, 2008 8:01 am ET

After reading these comments, I am glad to be a Republican……..

Frank   February 27th, 2008 8:01 am ET

Great point Barack!! We need to seek out ways to get along with those in the world that might hold different points of view. I have been Republican, but this episode demonstrates why millions of other disillusioned Republicans will vote for Obama! Diplomacy at its best gets my vote.

Seth   February 27th, 2008 8:00 am ET

I would hate to be denounced more than rejected.
Rejected means you acknowledge and oppose me.
Denounce means:To condemn openly as being evil or reprehensible

I Think Hillary messed up on the English test, I saw the teaching professor in Obama last night, if your student doesn't understand the stronger word, then you let them use what they can understand.

Amy, Kazoo   February 27th, 2008 8:00 am ET

wasn't it actually Tim Russert who used the differentiation between rejecting and denouncing in the first place with the question?

Sonya   February 27th, 2008 7:59 am ET

Hillary was wonderful in the debate and she was right on challenging Barack on this and other issues. All he can seem to do is "agree" with everything Hillary says. I'm proud that she finally put up a fight without being negative. She is truly Presidential. We will all be grateful when she gets the nomination. For those of you that say she is a divisive politicain, go read up on her legislative accomplishments and you won't be able to say that again. Also, why is it that she is called divisive for making a stand on issues facing Americans everyday. She's a fighter, and if that means divisive, then so be it. You have to be able to stand your ground, which is what she does with grit and grace. Thank you future Madame President.
ROCK ON HILLARY!!!

Majority Rule Moral Majority   February 27th, 2008 7:59 am ET

Clinton won again. She was able to expose the double standard when it comes to being racists for Africans in this country. If a caucasian woman had written a thesis saying whites should rise up and defend their culture and go after blacks like Obama's wife did then she would not be allowed within 100 miles of the White House much less anywhere else decent! Good Girl Hillary!

Damian   February 27th, 2008 7:59 am ET

Two points:

Firstly, I agree with everyone that has denounced CNN's headline for this story.

Secondly, Obama made and excellent point when he stated there was no offer of help for him to reject. However, he conceded to quiet Hillary on a point that made her look silly as many of you have noticed

Vegas   February 27th, 2008 7:59 am ET

Why is Barack calling Farakhan a MINISTER? Sinister Farakhan is more like it. Obama is such a fallacy in action. No depth, no substance, all talk. Change this, change that — what has he ever changed or improved in his years of serving in the legislature and in Washington — nothing. All talk no substance. Hear me now, believe me later!!

jhs   February 27th, 2008 7:59 am ET

While reading some of these posts, I have to wonder if Sen. Obama's followers are also followers of Farrakan. He's an awful man and if I was Obama, I wouldn't want him (Farrakan) to even whisper my name. Does he just want all of Farrakan's followers votes? It's good he "rejected/denounced" (whatever)…. but he should have done it a long time ago, publicly and loudly.

R. Davidson   February 27th, 2008 7:59 am ET

How many Jewish advisors does Obama have as opposed to Nation of Islam advisors? I am very concerned about hearing the connection of Obama to Farrakhan as well as learning the Obama's pastor is a friend to this hateful person, Farrakhan. However, I have to take Obama at his word and 'hope" that he will mean it. Many people of all persuasions would like to ride Obama's long coattails including that Racist monster, Farrakhan.

FEG II BAL   February 27th, 2008 7:58 am ET

I am always told that in this Country everyone is free to accept or not whatever he or she believes; I understand also a US president is everyone's president no matter what he or she belives. I want to ask Ms Clinton this question. In case she is nominated and becoming President, will she be a Christian's President only or every American. Anybody can like or dislike whoever he or she wants, why does the Farrakhan story is the most important for her, does not she have anythingelse to talk about or she arrives at her last word?… she is a two faces Candicate, I don't trust her; no one can believes what exactly she is up to.

Peter Fitzwell   February 27th, 2008 7:58 am ET

Give me a break you baboons! Everyone is flocking to Barack like sheep. most of you "act" educated. And "act" like you know about politics, when all I see from Obama supports is a thinly veiled stance on Popularity. Quotes that have nothing to do with politics and a underlying rhetoric that Obama is the hip or cool way to vote. (I am sorry did I use some words that are to big for some of you?)

In reality the Democratic party has not even come close to serving their constituency in a way that could be even deemed fair. Neither candidate is a good choice. The best Candidate dropped out of the race last month. leaving way for a wench and a baboon to pine for the highest office in the nation. Good luck with that. And Jordan… you're already calling him "Mr. President"… That only solidifies what I said. That arrogant statement, had absolutely nothing to do with the political agenda that Mr. Obama follows. I would feel safe in saying that you have no idea about politics and that you think Obama is "da man" because 1. you think it is time for us to have a black president or 2. its the in thing to do. Neither of those are a good reason for ANYONE to hold the office of presidency.

I can tell you why Barack didnt denounce or reject fart-akahn's endorsement, because he is playing to the black vote, and there is a significant amount of African Americans that flock to fart-akahn and Obama was hoping Hillary would move on. But she didn't. Neither one of these "candidates" had anything to offer to the nation in regards to making our world a better place and securing the future for our children, they only whined and moaned like a bunch of second graders on a play ground.

God help us if either of these get elected.

NADER '08!!!! Just because we havent heard any BS from him like we have from the other …. "4″

Nigeria Muhammad   February 27th, 2008 7:58 am ET

Why Use The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan As The Litmus Test For Mr. Obama? If Barack Outright Rejects Farrakhan, Then He Loses The Support Of The Black Community For Whom Farrakhan Has Helped Immensely. If He Accepts The Endorsement, Then He Lose White And Jewish Constituency And Support. Let's Not Use "The Farrakhan Factor" As A Weak Attempt To Slam Obama!!! How About Leveling The Playing And Ask All Of The Candidates About Louis Farrakhan?

READ ON   February 27th, 2008 7:58 am ET

Hillary Hillary Hillary, how far will you go? We all know Senator Obama does not support said person, and you are making a big deal of it…. you seem so desperate, so desperate, that it is sad. I gave up seeing those debates, simply because there is no point, you go over the same stuff over and over again. For Pete's sake let it go woman …. walk away with grace and honor,…….. oh wait I forgot , your personalities may not agree, just like all of your stands on issues, since you switch from one thing to the next, …………why did you not call yourself on Farrakhan directly?>

Kris   February 27th, 2008 7:57 am ET

I have mentioned before. I am once agin asking the news media to bring up the facts about Senator Obama about his background so that the voters can confortably make a choice. Otherwise some of us may not even go to the polls with fear of not knowing who he is. Why is he hding Hussaein as his middle name? Why is he so upset to see him in Somali dress? Is there more to know?

Ron   February 27th, 2008 7:57 am ET

I love our new socialist government don't you!!!!!

MSNBC Rules   February 27th, 2008 7:56 am ET

Clinton ruled the debate last night. She made Obama look like the rookie he is. However, with some experience he will make a great President in about 8 years after serving as Hillary's VP.

eddie   February 27th, 2008 7:56 am ET

He should not have waffled on this question. Most people say he won it, but he clearly waffled and if he didn't want support from farakhan, he would of said it right away that I completely reject anything from farakhan.
He didn't.

The Debate   February 27th, 2008 7:55 am ET

Clinton ruled the debate last night. She made Obama look like the rookie he is. However, with some experience he will make a great President in about 8 years after serving as Hillary's VP.

Ted   February 27th, 2008 7:55 am ET

This headline and story is extremely misleading. He denounced Farrakhan's endorsement, Hillary then said a denouncement isn't enough Obama must reject the endorsement. Obama, with a solid mastery of the english language pointed out that there is no offer of help to reject, as a result he had denounced it, but if the retorical nuance makes a diffenence he "denounces and rejects" Farrakhan's endorsement. Truely silly season in politics.

scott   February 27th, 2008 7:54 am ET

The Comeback remark of Obama was just the double talk we all must just get use to. it took awhile but he finally did say I reject it. There is no doubt the guy is sneaky on how he operates. people get caught up in his words but I dont think they really listen to them. many say he looked so calm during the debate. was that calm or arogance.

The Republicans Can't Wait - MSNBC Rules!   February 27th, 2008 7:54 am ET

Clinton took the debate by storm. She is a fighter and a force to be reckoned with! Obama did not stand a chance and had a whole lot of nothing to say.

Joe-Wilmington, DE   February 27th, 2008 7:53 am ET

Tuesday's debate in Cleveland further cemented my position:

1) Obama vs. McCain — I vote for Obama

2) Clinton vs. McCain — I vote for McCain.

Very simple.

Maryland   February 27th, 2008 7:53 am ET

Lets not play on the Farrakhan issue, we may not agree with what comes out his mouth. So why would you ask someone to reject some one support,because he feel that your a good person for the position. Is that not his right to voice his opinion?? Hillary disappointed me stooping that low. Does she feel that she's suffering that bad that she did it???

Kevin   February 27th, 2008 7:52 am ET

This is how Hillary Clinton responds under pressure? With bitterness and uncontrolled emotion? So she gets the first question; even if that were true, I think she should anticipate getting the first question as president.

Here's an issue I've not seen anyone debate: I think we should be concerned about a person elected president who has personal resentment attached to the Oval Office. On Day One when she's in her new office, I don't want OUR president to be thinking "this is where my jerk husband was adulterous. Now I showed him."

Man or woman have a right to be upset at their "partner" for something like that. However, the kind of emotions harbored from such an experience have no place in the Oval Office. As smart as Clinton may be, she's bringing baggage to the White House, and that should be of concern to the American people, both men and women.

The Republicans Can't Wait - MSNBC Rules!   February 27th, 2008 7:52 am ET

The Republicans can't wait to get ahold of Obama. He is beatable and will not have Hillary to "agree with" when debating against MCcain. He will need to stand on his own two feet. Republicans are very concerned with Hillary, as she tore up Obama last night. He could not answer hard hitting questions and often stumbled or agreed with Hillary.

Obama said a bunch of nothing last night.

Indie in Iowa   February 27th, 2008 7:51 am ET

Farrakhan represents hate and division. If Barrack was truly wanting to bring everyone together and sing camp fire songs in the land of la la, he should have by his own words, REJECT anyone who is as hateful and hate filled as Farrakhan.

Rick   February 27th, 2008 7:51 am ET

How can anyone HONESTLY believe Hillary with the tactics she has pulled, you only have to scratch the surface to see her dirt……….release your financial records Hillary, what are you hidding?

PAT M PEI Canada   February 27th, 2008 7:49 am ET

IRMA: "Hilary was right to counsel Obama about the need to
REJECT outright Farrahkan's endorsement. Louis
Farrakhan is a racist and I was pleased to see Obama
agree with Clinton that he needed to REJECT
Farrakhan's endorsement."

Irma I have to respectfully disagree. Hillary didn't counsel Obama she brought the issue to light during a debate.

And Obama needed to REJECT Farrakhan's endorsement when Farrakhan made the same, not only because he was pressured to REJECT the endorsement during the debate.

Why couldn't Obama have stated at the time that Farrakhan's views were completely different from his and he could not accept his endorsement.

Obama highlighted his weakness by not refusing this endorsement at the onset and has left the public wondering as to why he did not. Could it be that he is more in tune with Farrakhan's beliefs than he would like to admit to Americans? He certainly has left the question open.

Pete   February 27th, 2008 7:49 am ET

Awww, shut up already, Clinton.

Mark Leary   February 27th, 2008 7:49 am ET

I actually think that "denouncing" is stronger a stronger sentiment than "rejecting." "Rejecting" merely indicates that I don't want something, that I'm turning it down. Denouncing expresses that I feel very negatively about it–that don't want it because I find it repugnant. (I can reject special insurance coverage on my rental car without denouncing it.) So, Clinton's effort to imply that she somehow feels more strongly about refusing the support of bigots than Obama was just another feeble and ineffective ploy. I want a president who acts presidential, and she doesn't.

TC Orlando, FL   February 27th, 2008 7:49 am ET

Well it all depends on what the definition of "is" is…right Mrs. Clinton?

Katy Hill Prescott Az.   February 27th, 2008 7:49 am ET

The more I listen to Hillary the more I hate her. We do not need another arrogant, self righteous pig with a sense of entitlement in the Whitehouse,. If Clinton wants to take credit for the mess Bill left the country in then she needs to own up to all of it not pick and chose what she wants to take partial credit for. Remember she has 35 years of cover-up experience.

Tiffany, Lake Worth, FL   February 27th, 2008 7:48 am ET

I watched the debate last night only because I expected Senator Clinton would give us, the Democrat supporters, a good and exciting show down against Senator Obama, given that she seemed quite appalled by his views on her stand with health care, and keep in mind folks that Senator Obama has stated over and over again, in her presence and on his campaign trails. In my perspective, Obama owned this debate. Clinton started strong, but he took control of what may have been a heated battle. I loved how poised he was as Clinton tried to take jabs at him. Enough with the jokes, let's save them for the professional comedians.

john   February 27th, 2008 7:47 am ET

Funny, I thought we had freedom of speech in this country.. If Farrakhan wants to support Obama so be it… it is not as if Barack was on stage with him.

All this, these headlines, these non issues are what put the country in the position it is currently in…

Time for change…

Obama 08′

Lynn   February 27th, 2008 7:47 am ET

I REJECT Hillary, and DENOUNCE Bill.

Rick   February 27th, 2008 7:45 am ET

Its the Clinton tactics, such as publishing the pic of Obama, bad mouthing him, allowing her campaign officials to spread rumors, maybe the government should look into her finances, her dealings with foreign minning officials, and where she gets her money from.

Guy   February 27th, 2008 7:45 am ET

I would like to know what are the condition to be an american voter . Why is it only a matter of Christians and why not Islamics?

Joe in Indy   February 27th, 2008 7:44 am ET

If you're going to give Hilary's full attack … why not print Obama's full response? Why not include the part where he talks about the role of Jews in the civil rights movement? Why not print what he said that caused Clinton's "denounce vs. reject" reasoning?

Poorly done.

Denning   February 27th, 2008 7:44 am ET

This was the best debate yet. Farrakhan is a spook, and Barack really needed to show more distaste for him from my perspective. Hillary jumped when she needed too in response; the return fire from Barack was “lite”. Does Barack have any fight in him at all? I’m voting Barack only because I think he is genuine and has the best interests of us all. Get a bit meaner Barack!

Carmen Leon   February 27th, 2008 7:43 am ET

Although Obama rejected/denounced Farrakan, he attends a church where the pastor embraces hate towards Jews. If my pastor espoused hate for anyone, I would immediately stop attending. It is not enough to say we reject/denounce, our actions speak louder than our words. Obama is ultra-liberal and not what we need now in our country.

whoopz   February 27th, 2008 7:43 am ET

just a quick question, Clinton's universal health care actually means that everyone is require to buy a health insurance right? just like what MA is doing right now?

TITUS GLAVEE,LONDON   February 27th, 2008 7:42 am ET

We all know cnn does not know any better, after all I have not seen them ask Hillary about the remarks O'Reilly made with regards to Michelle Obama… I mean you are a complete pain in the arse cnn and most Irish press here in this side of the pond as well.

But come to think of it, It is the Irish who stand to benefit the most from a liberal like Brack Obama. Hypocrites!

Denise   February 27th, 2008 7:41 am ET

As much money as Sen. Clinton is paying consultants, this is the best strategy they could come up with? Sen. Obama has shown me that he can rise above the "silliness".

I haven't always agreed with everything Minister Farrakan has preached, but Minister Farrakan currently speaks against racisism. What is this saying about her opinion of Muslims? What bothers me is it looks like she doesn't mind alienating African Americans herself. In the beginningl, she probably thought it wouldn't matter.

Since Sen. Clinton is on a denouncing kick, why didn't she come out and "denounce" NAFTA? Because it wouldn't have benefitted her husband. Now she wants to make a mediocore attempt to judge Sen. Obama becuase he didn't denounce someone that complimented him as a candidate? Why didn't she "denounce" the Iraqi War from the beginning? Hey! Sen. Clinton could congratulate Sen. Obama for denouncing the Iraq War.

Sen. Clinton shouldn't worry about Sen. Obama being a threat to her campaign. I think she and her campaign will sabotage things themselves.

Frazier   February 27th, 2008 7:41 am ET

I REJECT and DENOUNCE you Mrs. Clinton.. You just lost my vote!! In my view you lost the debate last night and you're trying to destroy the party. I can understand now why my republican friends dislikes the Clintons

mark   February 27th, 2008 7:40 am ET

I think Clinton is whining. But for a man who speaks about the importance of words Obama should recognize the important difference between denouncing and rejecting. It would have been better for him to clarify what those two words mean for clinton (take her to school, so to speak) His reaction makes me somewhat uneasy. Although it may play well in a courtroom. Are words important, or are only the words he speaks important?

Eric   February 27th, 2008 7:40 am ET

Where are all the Hillary whiners who say that CNN hates Hillary? If that was so, wouldn't this article has been about Hillary's pathetic attempt to deflect the tax return question?

v   February 27th, 2008 7:39 am ET

First I was dumbfounded when she she said so..then I laughed loud when he said so….Denounce and reject…hahahaha

JB   February 27th, 2008 7:39 am ET

My feelings on the debate:

Clinton looked like a fool. The whining about being picked first to answer a question (if it's true you address it in another environment), the whining about ads. All the while, Obama seemed to be trying to keep her wheels from falling off. He seemed conerned about her well being.

He looked Presidential. He did what he had to do, while I think, polishing up certain areas. Well done Mr. Obama!!!!

Game, Set, Match!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By the way, Hillary knows where the Obama/Africa picture came from. And we will find that out in the next few days. She has no intentions of releasing those papers, or her taxes. At least that was what was conveyed in her answers, to me!

Idah   February 27th, 2008 7:39 am ET

I am far away in Africa and have followed the presidential candidacy from some time back. I have to admit it is not difficult to like Barack Obama. From seemingly nowhere to come to lead the race. I just wish Hillary would stop behaving like a typical female: whiny, catty, unsrupulous. She is standing against a man, for goodness' sake, where composure and quiet strength are inborn. The end is in sight but its not too late to change..Pardon the pun

Rex   February 27th, 2008 7:38 am ET

Russert was way out of line for even bringing up the issue. He should be punished for his race-baiting question. No matter who, or what a person represents, they have the right to endorse a candidate. To make an issue of Farrakhan's support was ridiculous. In retrospect, shame on Clinton for hashing the subject. Obamas original answer was sufficient. His second answer was a grand slam.
One more week of HRC, thank God.

Barry   February 27th, 2008 7:38 am ET

. please look up denounce and reject in the dictionary.

Denounce is a much stronger term than reject. Hillary's argument was stupid, and simply trying to 'catch' obama on something stupid.

Angelika   February 27th, 2008 7:37 am ET

Haha, go Obama! Hillary is, once again, trying to play the religion card by bringing this up. Believe it or not, she's tying him with Islam. I watch the news a lot, and didn't know this guy supported Obama. Anyone notice that Obama only points a finger at Hillary when it's something like a misleading picture? Hillary, meanwhile, screams about everything.

Wayne, Greenville TX   February 27th, 2008 7:37 am ET

I believe that come next Tuesday, my fellow Texans will denounce and reject Hillary Clinton. :-)

carol   February 27th, 2008 7:36 am ET

All Obama does is agree with Hillary. What would he say if he could not agree with her all the time. Obama supporters you better watch out, the Republicans are sabbotaging our election, go to rushlimbaugh.com and read for yourselves.

Brandon   February 27th, 2008 7:36 am ET

Come on Juanito CNN is the biggest Obama homer out there!!!! Obama would not even be in this race if it wasn't for CNN and other like media!!!! OBAMA HOMERS !!!
Huckabee 08′

last debate   February 27th, 2008 7:36 am ET

He is so presidential……he wasn't whining, complaining or using SNL as a point of reference. He didn't even take a swipe at her when they showed the clip of Hillary mocking him which was disgraceful…..but as always he handled the foolishness.

Old School   February 27th, 2008 7:34 am ET

Check Mate it's a rap call a doctor I think Hillary is turning red she looked like she was flashing on stage.

case   February 27th, 2008 7:33 am ET

I love see Billary getting put threw the ringer. Hillary, McCain, Nader, more of the same. Out with the old!

Independent for OBAMA

Anpl   February 27th, 2008 7:32 am ET

obama is so smooth with words. his rejection wasn't even sincere. and yes there is a difference between decounce and reject.

Frank tulsa, ok   February 27th, 2008 7:32 am ET

No tap-outs………….Obama wins because Hillary couldn't get past his guard and do ground and pound. Sorry….not enough to reverse the momentum. If anything it helped Obama understand where his weaknesses are and what to focus on in November.

Rick, Maryland   February 27th, 2008 7:31 am ET

Case in point.
Jordan, just a few comment's before my last one call's Hillery,
Clinton and Obama, Mr. Obama.
As I said, American are scared of and don't respect women as
there equal.
One last thing, from my last comment, when it come's to
talking with foreign countries, the arrogance of Obama will
destroy .

Sharon of Illinois   February 27th, 2008 7:31 am ET

Hillary looked really stupid here. Reject, denounce not a big difference. And why does every black person have to answer for the stupidity of another black person? Does every white person have to answer for the stupidity of a white person? What candidate apologized for Strom Thurmond when he was alive? Its ridiculous.

Hong   February 27th, 2008 7:30 am ET

Are we going to have a president who always does something in the first place and then realizes that is not enough after informed by others?
A follower in practice.

Matt   February 27th, 2008 7:30 am ET

The better question is, what does it say about a candidate if Farrakhan DOES support him and why does Farrakhan support him.

Louise   February 27th, 2008 7:30 am ET

I can't believe the Clinton fanatics are trying to spin this. I'm going to be so happy when you and your scummy candidate are sent back to Arkansas!

Jim   February 27th, 2008 7:29 am ET

I suggest a headline change to:

CNN Wastes Time of Thousands With Sensationalist Nonsense.

There were in fact actual policies discussed and debated. Please don't waste our time with drivel of this sort.

Juan Grain   February 27th, 2008 7:29 am ET

From Websters
Denounce
1: to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil 2archaic a: proclaim b: to announce threateningly 3: to inform against : accuse 4obsolete : portend5: to announce formally the termination of (as a treaty)

Reject
1 a: to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose, or use b: to refuse to hear, receive, or admit : rebuff, repel c: to refuse as lover or spouse 2obsolete : to cast off 3: throw back, repulse4: to spew out 5: to subject to immunological rejection

Tomato Tomato

Jill   February 27th, 2008 7:29 am ET

This is my problem with Hillary. In a week attempt to bring Barack down, she makes comments such as these. What else is he supposed to say? Obviously he doesn't go searching for Farrakhan's support but honestly people, do you try to convince people 'not' to like you?

Rick645   February 27th, 2008 7:27 am ET

Tonight's debate made it clear that we are in danger of electing a president whose ideology was shaped in great part by a minister who is a supporter of Farrakhan. While nobody is saying that Obama is a Farrakhan supporter, he didn't reject Farrakhan's support until told to do so by Clinton. That should give the entire nation pause.

CNN, please vet Obama more on this before Tuesday. Texas and Ohio might want a more detailed look at Obama, his church and Farrakhan.

Shauna   February 27th, 2008 7:27 am ET

Someone explain to me why Clinton gets grilled by media and critized for anything she says and does and yet Obama is going to be investigated next week (probably conviently after tuesday) for criminal activity and news media is not talking about that? Why is this guy not getting grilled like she does? It makes no sense to me what-so-ever.

TJ   February 27th, 2008 7:27 am ET

I have to agree with Brad. The title of your article makes it seem like Billary brought up the question of Farrakhan's support. When it was really brought up by the moderators… she was simply trying to find an "I gotcha" moment that backfired on her.

Molly's point is correct also. To denounce someone is far more potent than to simply reject.. Sen. Obama was justified in denouncing as opposed to rejecting in that there was no help offered to be rejected. By denouncing Farrakhan he was making a far bolder statement.

But hey… words don't matter right Sen. Clinton? Or so you said earlier in your campaign. Is this just another thing that you are trying to backpedal on and twist to your advantage? Sounds like it to me.

Oh, and what about the jobs she promised New Yorkers that never materialized because as she said, – she was planing on having a Democratic president in office.. What was that? That tells me she can't work with Republicans or anyone who isn't part of her inner circle. She didn't even try. She gave up because one of her cronies wasn't in office to help her out.

Where are those tax returns you promised you'd release Sen. Clinton? Where are the White House document's you said you would release? Why are you afraid to release them? What are you hiding? You claim the time you spent in the White House as part of your overall experience to be our leader.. so show us what you did. Be transparent about your financing, or are you too afraid to show the American people where your money came from?

Enough with the games. Time to bring the party together. or do we rally want another 4 years of the same old same old…

Mike J   February 27th, 2008 7:26 am ET

Anyone who saw the debate knows just how much of a non event this was. I applaud Barack for his comments last night, including his point of bringing together ties between the Jewish and African Anerican communities, as well as his words when he criticized African Americans for their Anti Jewish sentiment.

allyce   February 27th, 2008 7:26 am ET

Same on CNN AND MSNBC for twisting the debate as usual and praising Obama. As far as I am concerned, Obama's lack of strong rejection of Farrakhan has killed any chances he would have had in any general election. Of course, MSNBC failed to take it to the next level and ask him about his minister who praises Farrakhan, which was acknowledged last night on the debate. He attends the church where his own minister sings the praises and agrees with Farrakhan. My God people, wake up!
Hillary won the debate – as usual Obama could only respond by saying "I agree with what she just said" and then would go on and on about some family/person he met on the campaign trail. Hillary is smart, and is capable of leading this country. Keep in mind that I am a republican and will be voting for McCain but cannot stand to sit by and see the media unfairly treating Senator Clinton – facts are facts – Obama is not only unamerican but unqualified.

MAJEK   February 27th, 2008 7:26 am ET

Are you all crazy? He skirted the issue, Obama should have out right rejected/denounced Farrakhan's support. Obama said "I obviously can't censor him, but it is not support that I sought", "I can't say to somebody that he can't say that he thinks I'm a good guy". Yes you can! I do believe that Don is correct he did not want to alienate the muslim vote. HILLARY schooled him. She is far seasoned and knows how to handle herself, she was strong and correct in saying that he needs to make it clear that he rejects that type of support. HILLARY knows what the republicans will do to him if he gets the nomination, and that means we will have another republican in the W.H. This article is one of the few times that CNN has not been obamacrazed… can this mean fair and balanced media may be working its way back to us?

Emily   February 27th, 2008 7:26 am ET

CNN…..This headline is UNFAIR! One would think that Barack seeked Farrakhan's endorsement. He's right! What is he rejecting if he's not getting an offer. The guy is smart and Billary can't stand it. I guess we saw a 4th PERSONAILTY last night. Who will we see today??

And Hillary, enough with the "Meet Me In Texas!" (Lost a 20 point lead) , "Meet me in Ohio!" (The gap is CLOSING), "Meet Me In Philly!") Naaaah, It's a wrap!

What's that I hear……..THE FAT LADY SINGING!!!!!!!

Emily

Dan   February 27th, 2008 7:25 am ET

Senator Clinton is desperate. She looks like a losing team trailing by many points in the 4th quarter that would try anything. On this point Senator Obama came out on top in the end because he agreed to reject and denounce while she only rejected. I agree with one poster that denounce is already a stronger word than reject. If I just reject something from somebody it does not necessarily means that I don't like what is offered. It could be simply because I don't need it.

AJ   February 27th, 2008 7:24 am ET

The "hope of the world?" What a joke. It's obvious that Obama believes that he is exctly that and was happy to hear Farrakhan say it. Obama and all of his followers are disgusting people. If he should secure the nomination, I will look forward to seeing his failed presidency. He will make G.W. Bush look honest and competent.

Matt   February 27th, 2008 7:23 am ET

Well played Hillary, once again you are backed into a corner and the only way you can get out is with a low-blow. However, your little jabs seem to do nothing for the American public. We know what kind of person you are – a self-centered ego maniac. Is every little thing that isn't an issue one that you will see to make? It's these tactics, these little "denounce or reject" tactics that are nothing but public relations. We know your campaign is failing and your support is leaving you. Any publicity is good publicity isn't it Hillary?

Eugene   February 27th, 2008 7:23 am ET

Wow, the supposedly "Obama-biased" media is at it again, race-baiting and using weighted headlines to evoke the infamous e-mail lies. You sure you don't want to top this off by questioning his wife's patriotism? You don't want to get an angry call from Bill and Hillary, after all. Absolutely disgusting.

Ohio   February 27th, 2008 7:23 am ET

Totally agree Don!

Plus, Obama reqrets the vote about the life of a single person (Shiavo case) and couldn't even stand up to speak out against that but want's to criticize the judgement of someone else. He sounds a bit wimpy.

Also, his reason for not having necessary meetings for the committee he is on is because he has been campaigning? Something is wrong with that.

Obama is that guy in the office who talks a good game, kisses up to the bosses, doesn't do any actual work and get's the promotion.

Jeremy   February 27th, 2008 7:23 am ET

New York Sen. Hillary Clinton has commanding leads, especially among women, over Illinois Sen. Barack Obama among likely Democratic primary voters in the critical swing states of Ohio and Pennsylvania, according to Quinnipiac University's Swing State Poll, three simultaneous surveys of voters in states that have been pivotal in presidential elections since 1964.

In these two states and Florida, a swing state that already conducted a primary, Arizona Sen. John McCain, the Republican front-runner, is running neck and neck with either Sen. Clinton or Sen. Obama.

will obama win without Florida? No

Lasts night debate when he looked like a pres he was agreeing with gw bush.

I just watch morning joe on msnbc and they (men) shut down the (woman) when she tries to talk aboub Hillary making head way last night

Liz   February 27th, 2008 7:22 am ET

Obama reminds me of that slick used car salesman who has all the right words to sell you his car and when you take it home you realize its a lemon. That's what you will get if this man is elected "a useless lemon", thats worth nothing on the market. So be careful when you are voting because remember you cant turn this lemon in for another 4 years. He really has the gift of the gab but I am sure he is a lemon when put to the test. Charisma cannot put food on your table or a roof over your head. It takes experience and knowing what you are doing to get these things done. So again, be very careful where you place your vote

Hillary is your best bet. Let Hillary be your nominee to run for president and get America back on the right foot or things will get worse if you elect the "lemon". Go Hillary go….see you in November.

R. C. Carter   February 27th, 2008 7:21 am ET

Don,

With all due respect, I think you and Hillary should both study the dictionary. Molly's comment above totally explains what you both unequivocally missed.

Lastly, Barak wasn't afraid. He knows what we all know, Hillary is afraid, desperate and basically DONE!!!! Why should he do anything to destroy her when she's doing an excellent job of that by herself. There's an old saying, "Don't interupt your enemy while they're destroying themselves…"

KK-OHIO   February 27th, 2008 7:21 am ET

Louis Farrahkan is an american citizen-born and raised, so are the people of the nation of islam. Each individual has the right to vote and who they vote for is their choice. I thought it was a ridiculous question. I'm sure they as individuals have been voting in the past presidential elections-so why is it an issue now.

My two scents   February 27th, 2008 7:21 am ET

I like Hilary and think she would make a good president. But, lets face the facts; Sen. Obama is by far the most qualified candidate. Hilary, to me, just doesnt get it. She's too gong-hoe on her views, without ever stopping to think about what she's saying sometimes. I'm just glad that Sen. Obama is quick on his feet and so far has always been able to crush her feeble attempts at trying to take him down. Way to go Obama!

K.Rich   February 27th, 2008 7:20 am ET

Way to go Obama!!! Alot has been said about Obama's qualifications and experience or lack thereof. In many ways Mrs Clinton probably deserves it more coz she's paid her dues for some 30 odd years.
However, I think Obama exhibits better judgment and restraint of emotions in hairy situations that'd suggest he'd do a better job. Some have pointed out that clocking in years in Washington doesn't necessarily inhibit you from making bad decisions based on emotions as Donald Rumsfield's example so poignantly shows. He had been a defense secretary in a prevois administration but yet proved to be a mindless warmonger whose mistakes in Iraq are proving intractible. Obama has the presidential poise and astuteness in answering questions that could see him win the white house.
Yaaaaaay for Obama, we wish you the best!!!!!!!

marvin c. custer   February 27th, 2008 7:20 am ET

i feel bad for most people who let race and names like dem and rep. sway there votes all them names need to be done away with and vote for best person for the job..obama has done nothing vere hasnt even showed up for votes.. he is a really great talker.. but a good deceiver has to be.. one of the greast speakers of all time was hitler and look at him.. very bad man.. hillery is the only good choice.. record shows… we all know what the

arthurW from Virginia   February 27th, 2008 7:20 am ET

Agreed, cheap comment and cheap headline.
Until almost the end of Clintons response on this Farrakhan non issue, I thought she was agreeing and commiserating with Obama. That she too had been backed in the past by groups she wanted nothing to do with. That she too viewed abhorred anti-Semitism. Instead she parses the definition of words in an attempt to somehow take the high road and score some points. Does it remind anyone about Bill’s previous expeditions with the English language in trying to redefine words? The debate moderator was so surprised by the answer that he had to confirm that indeed Clinton was trying to make political capital on this. I found it hardly to be an opening for Clinton, but rather to be the sounds of her campaign closing.

Vince Lewis   February 27th, 2008 7:17 am ET

CNN What the heck does this matter, you write this like Obama wa somehow accepting Farrakhan support, c'mon get real, reality check!

Trenchtownrock   February 27th, 2008 7:16 am ET

Totally agree Bob!! CNN is out of its flipping mind with this headline..Where is Cafferty when you need him.

Bobby   February 27th, 2008 7:16 am ET

The question was not even ask to her, and had nothing to do with her…. She jumps in and give anothe cheap shot… A president with such changes, differents moods and reacting as she had will be to fear… not only by american but for by the international community… First question, different wordings… complains and complains about details that change nothing or bring nothing to her campain or to worried Americans… First questions are advantages since they have the same policies and HRC said several time… Answering the first make ur answer more genuine and WHY didnt she complained about HAVING IN THE LAST TWO DEBATE THE CLOSING STATEMENT ???????????
STAND UP PEOPLE and vote for the calm, composed and candidate who have always given credit the other candidates for their good actions… HRC doesn't seem to know how to congratulate and respect an opponent…

Cheeeeeeer
OBAMA/EDWARDS 08

dfr   February 27th, 2008 7:15 am ET

It was obvious at the onset that Hillary came out looking for a fight. She has lost it in my opinion. She really sounded land looked like she was a very "angry old woman."

Wendy   February 27th, 2008 7:14 am ET

Did it ever occur to you mindless Obama supporters – he was backed into a corner before denouncing and rejecting Farrakhan? And still has not denounced or rejected the preaching of his own minister.

R.A.   February 27th, 2008 7:08 am ET

If you ask me, at their core, there's not a lot of difference in the result of what people like Farrakhan, Sharpton, O'Riley or Billary say and do…..it's meant to be devisive. There's plenty of shame to go around for things that are said by these folks and many others…but we have FREE SPEECH !!!! There's not much point in picking on CNN for reporting what is said in a debate……….Would you rather have it reported by a Chinese News Agency?? Quityerbellyachin and vote for who you think will best serve the country.
And try to have a nice day.

Sue   February 27th, 2008 7:06 am ET

Let me translate Mrs. Clinton's stance: semantics aside, the issue is have some back bone, make a stand, and publicly show where you stand. Move on….

Margi   February 27th, 2008 7:06 am ET

Reject – refuse, decline, rebuff, throw out, discard, eliminate, disallow

Denounce – condemn, criticize, censure, accuse, deplore, deprecate, disapprove of

They mean the same thing Hillary
Obama 08!

Angela   February 27th, 2008 7:06 am ET

There is no real difference between the words denounce and reject as they were used during the debate. Senator Clinton knew exactly what Senator Obama meant by saying “denounce”. She is a highly intelligent woman, and I thought that making a futile “play on words” was very childish and immature. We don’t need another president with an “it’s my way or the highway” infantile, argumentative style of governing. This is why I have rejected (not denounced because I don’t think she is evil or disloyal – maybe slightly bipolar :-) ) the notion of Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton being the next president of the United States of America.

A Ron Paul Supporter   February 27th, 2008 7:06 am ET

Clinton is getting more, and more desperate isn't she?

Christopher in Cincinnati   February 27th, 2008 7:05 am ET

Just to be clear: I am no fan of Clinton. And her opportunistic turn when she brought up her denunciation of some bigoted supporters in New York was, as is usual for the Clinton camp, a clever and well-timed response sucked dry by the candidate's condescending tone. It must be a pathology. She seems completely incapable of ever bring up a good point without a smirk that says "I am smarter than everyone in this country." Slate compared her to Tracy Flick in Election, but I find her even more grating.

In any event, her point was dead on, and while I support Obama, he did himself a huge disservice by equivocating in his answer. I have found him to be uncommonly fair minded to those hwith whom he disagrees, but principles demand limits. Instead of arguing semantics, he should have come out of the gate with a strong disapproval of "Minister" Farrakhan and left it at that. I will still vote for him, but I am very disappointed that he couldn't do better with this question.

David C. In Indianapolis   February 27th, 2008 7:05 am ET

Any black candidate in the spotlight is always asked by the media to reject Louis Farrakhan. Do they ask white candidates to reject the Klan or Trent Lott, a polarizing political figure?

tom   February 27th, 2008 7:05 am ET

Hey Barak Why dont you tell everyone about your tax proposal that will send 845 billion dollars to help other countries while we are starving here. Doesw that make sense?????

Meri, PR   February 27th, 2008 7:04 am ET

This is BS. Clinton did Obama a FAVOR. Obama supporters should realize this. I support Hillary, but I have no doubt it is Obama who will get the nomination. Had he not rejected the endorsment, it'd have just been fodder for the Republican attack machine. Give Hillary some props, people! She just saved your candidate a HUGE headache in the months to come. She's getting him ready for the general. Make no mistake about it: the Republicans will use ANY loophole in Obama's words/rhetoric to misrepresent his views and paint him as an enemy of America. I'm personally glad he closed that one, and it was all thanks to Clinton. Her concern IS her country, and she knows a Republican administration is no good to anyone.

For those concerned with a Clinton "dynasty", think about this: for the last 28 years, the true dynasty — since everyone insists on using that word — has been the Republican party. Forget about surnames, concentrate on ruling PARTIES. The ONLY candidate that has been able to put a dent on this Republican dynasty was Clinton. You criticize what you term "Clinton politics" and "the Clinton attack machine", but they KNOW how to battle and have been the only ones to defeat the Republican attack/hate machine in almost 3 decades. If Obama wants to win, he will need their help, period. Sometimes it takes getting your hands a little dirty to fend off and defeat someone who plays a little dirtier than you do. And the Republicans are not afraid to get filthy.

maggieb   February 27th, 2008 7:04 am ET

Clinton had better answers on the issues Obama wants change, but has no answers to how , when , what. He is so like Carter was that it's scary , and we don't want another disaster like the Carter Years.

Rick, Maryland   February 27th, 2008 7:02 am ET

What really get's to me is the nasty comment's from Obama
supporter's.
The fact that a lot of men, American men still are threatened by the thought of having a woman in the white house.
Some of the world's great leader's have been women, Ghandi,
Thatcher and the head of Germany now.
The problem now is if it's between Obama and Mccain will these
men vote for Mccain , we'll see.
What totally turn's me off about Obama besides inexperiance is his arrogance .
For the first time in my life, I'm leaning toward a republican if Obama
get's the nod.
It's not racial, our Lt. Govenor in Maryland is black and if he had
the experiance and ran for president, I'd vote for him in a heartbeat, why, he seem's
really down to earth and doesn't look down to regular people, the
on'e who keep this country going.

Joel   February 27th, 2008 7:02 am ET

The reason Hilary Clintoin made the reject vs denouce comment was because he did not give a clear yes or no answer to Tim Russet. He was very vague in his answer and went around the bush. Also, Obama brought up the black vs jewish strained relationship. This is an old stereotype that know all of America thinks is currently true. Jews have been very supportive during civil rights and often live and work side by side with each other.

Brian   February 27th, 2008 7:01 am ET

Wow, talk about grasping at straws. Can one of Hillary's Advisors point her in the direction of the exit. I guess its beyond the point where she can bow out gracefully, but at least she won't continue to pull the entire party with her.

Sean, Detroit MI   February 27th, 2008 6:58 am ET

How can anyone expect Obama to have control over and be accountable for what other independant and free Americans say about him? Why is it that when a black man gets praise from Farrakhan, he has to immediately declare whose side he's on? If Farrakhan had of praised Hillary, I bet everyone wouldn't be suspecious of Hillary's loyalties, they'd be saying what a great uniter she is for bringing even Farrakhan to her side. This whole controversy just shows the double standards Obama is being held to. He gets put down for being endorsed by Oprah, while Hillary gets to quote what Tina Fey says on SNL and present it as relevant to a presidential debate.

Ken   February 27th, 2008 6:57 am ET

It's almost as though viewers could just hear her husband arguing over what the meaning of the word "the" is. She claims to be about solutions, but when it came time to debate tonight, she was about petulant whining about who went first, semantic games, and complaining about the generally negative environment she created around herself.

Abdurazzoq   February 27th, 2008 6:57 am ET

I think that Hillary Clinton just afraid from being loser i this "competition" becouse Obama chosed right way of geting votes. Clinton trying to make a bad think with favoreof Obama Becouse Obama took first place in presidental competition

marc from indiana   February 27th, 2008 6:56 am ET

Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign has accepted $54,350 from members of a law firm that in 2006 lobbied him to introduce a tax provision for a Japanese drug company with operations in Illinois, according to public records and interviews. The government estimates the provision, which became law in December 2006, will cost the treasury $800,000.

In 2002, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton introduced legislation at the request of Rienzi & Sons, a Queens, N.Y., food importer, according to company president Michael Rienzi. The provision, which became law in December 2004, required the government to refund tens of thousands of dollars in duty charged on imported tomato products, Rienzi told USA TODAY.

Rienzi gave $110,000 to committees set up to support Clinton's 2000 Senate race, records show. Rienzi family members contributed an additional $52,800 to her campaigns since 2000. Michael Rienzi also said he donated to Bill Clinton's presidential foundation, but he declined to say how much.

John McCain, the likely Republican nominee, does not introduce tariff suspension bills under "a longstanding policy — no private relief bills or any bills for one person,"

Geri in Pennsylvania   February 27th, 2008 6:56 am ET

Correction: Obama said he was on Foreign Relations Committee, Hilliary corrects him last night and says he isn't, but chairs an oversite commitee on a country we are at war with, yet hasn't called a single meeting. His excuse is that he was running for President? Give me a break. Yes he gave in on some issues, he is smart, give him that, but he diffused so wouldn't be morning news. We do get tired of the Hilliary bashing and media biased. I like Obama ok, but he just doesn't have the experience. The media is star struck and always hated the Clinton's, but let's get a bit fair here.

derek   February 27th, 2008 6:55 am ET

What scares me about obama is the likening to another "swell guy" speaker. Good ol' Hitler was a master of feel good speeches and look what happened with him. Wake up you zealots, Obama is spewing rhetoric with no background in experience. Must we be like rats following the pied piper? Just because it feels good doesn't make it right.

marc from indiana   February 27th, 2008 6:54 am ET

Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign has accepted $54,350 from members of a law firm that in 2006 lobbied him to introduce a tax provision for a Japanese drug company with operations in Illinois, according to public records and interviews. The government estimates the provision, which became law in December 2006, will cost the treasury $800,000.

In 2002, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton introduced legislation at the request of Rienzi & Sons, a Queens, N.Y., food importer, according to company president Michael Rienzi. The provision, which became law in December 2004, required the government to refund tens of thousands of dollars in duty charged on imported tomato products, Rienzi told USA TODAY.

TheLeftNut   February 27th, 2008 6:54 am ET

Ok! Obama can tussle.

This whole issue isn't an issue.

4 Obama all the way   February 27th, 2008 6:54 am ET

Shame on the netwok for inciting the racial contrivercy surrounding Farrakahn. I am quite sure the grand wizard is supporting Mccain.

michael onyekachi   February 27th, 2008 6:53 am ET

well, i think hillary is really stressed out and frustrated with the fact that obama is on the top, about the fact that she is been asked always the first question at the debates is not an excuse, and the press and judges are also not in the favor of obama. if truely she is experienced and politically intelligent as she claimed then first questions should even be the fastest way to display her intelligence. but if you ask me, i think obama is the right candidate for the united states of america. first, he's a good thinker and secondly he is one for all,no racial favor or what so ever. he is the man. If Hillary can be like him, then definitely i will vote for her. All the same, good luck to both super candidates.

Quiet Mary   February 27th, 2008 6:53 am ET

Clinton won this debate hands down!…Obama is an empty suit…the media is so bias against Senator Clinton, you could tell that by the debate, Russert is a lousy moderator..loves gotchas!!!! She will win Texas and Ohio and go on to be the nominee…In 2009…get used to saying ….Madame President!!!.

Alice   February 27th, 2008 6:52 am ET

Regarding Ferrakhan and Obama's response. I personally did not see the difference between "reject", "denouce". It is surprising to read some Clinton's supporters here saying that "reject" would have been the the proper word.

Ferrakhan, was not offering Obama anything. He simply said, Obama is a nice guy; he has been good, blah blah….he did not endorse Obama; he even said he is dost not know if he will be voting for Obama or not. So I did not see anything been offered that need to be rejected by Obama.

You guys should go back and read Ferrakhan's statement very well and see if he had offered Obama anything.

Denoucing his statements and stands against the jews was the best and appropriate response.

Hillary in her usual combative posture was trying to spin the whole situation and attempt to cast doubt on Obama; However Obama turned the tables on her….if the one reject makes her day, though it does not fit the contest, Obama gave it to her.."I reject and denouce". Hope Hillary felt better after that.

4 Obama all the way   February 27th, 2008 6:51 am ET

I was watching this debate and I had to say this, Obama looks so presidential, I mean I really can see him in the white house. He is so straight forward, seemly honest, with great character. I just was really in tuned to him. Hillary should run for governor or something, but president nope.

Geri in Pennsylvania   February 27th, 2008 6:50 am ET

CNN and other media are turning me off to politics. The bias
is so rampart that why vote, the media is manipulating votes.
To quote Clinton "Shame on you CNN". But it has been the
whole political system. We want to hear issues, not Hlliary
bashing constantly, dont' you realize that?

bill   February 27th, 2008 6:50 am ET

these two people that is running for president could realy
get the econmy going if they would start selling used cars

George   February 27th, 2008 6:49 am ET

Obama was always given the last words during the debate on Tuesday. This is an extremly tactical and manipulative maneuver – a well known method used by moderaters who are not neutral. In every debate so far Obama has been given the last very important words and a chance to create opinion in favour of an issue and appearance – like a chairman of a board! It is sad to say that Hillary Clinton herself has had to remind about that. The "last words" plays a decisive role in all discussions – CNN/Univision and Obama knows that and it is unbelievable that you Americans do not care about this unproper democratic order.

Tdub   February 27th, 2008 6:49 am ET

Come on CNN, let's not make this an issue. I only read this piece b/c of the headline… if you really think that Barack stands by Farrakhan (and his message) just say so. Otherwise, anyone who watched the debate would find this headline misleading. His answer spoke for itself, and Hillary's comment presented an opportunity to clarify it

Although the higlights from this debate might have been few and far between, this was not one of them

Berkeley   February 27th, 2008 6:49 am ET

One thing is clear to me: Obama is another Washington politician yet without executive experience, which doesn't make him the best choice for the Presidency.

This campaign has been unilaterally race driven. A good percentage of black people are voting on the base of race, whille the rest are not.

Only some courageous black people are having the guts to say that.
I hope for everybody's good that this doesn't fire back.

Joss   February 27th, 2008 6:48 am ET

Irma – look up denounce in the dictionary. Actually, let me help.

de·nounce /dɪˈnaʊns/ Pronunciation Key – Show Spelled Pronunciation[di-nouns] Pronunciation Key – Show IPA Pronunciation
–verb (used with object), -nounced, -nounc·ing. 1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.
2. to make a formal accusation against, as to the police or in a court.
3. to give formal notice of the termination or denial of (a treaty, pact, agreement, or the like).
4. Archaic. to announce or proclaim, esp. as something evil or calamitous.
5. Obsolete. to portend.

Sam   February 27th, 2008 6:47 am ET

This is another example of Hilary trying to get Obama to "react" instead of "respond". She wants him to lose his cool in front of the cameras, but he's not taking the bait. He stayed calm, cool and collected , while she couldn't help herself and whined about getting the 1st question!

Go Obama!

Johanna   February 27th, 2008 6:46 am ET

Senator Obama, I believe won this debate again, our next President Obama. Why would we keep putting the same people back in as President, Bush, Clinton, Bush, now fresh change that will bring a change is Obama. I also read that Ann Richards’s sons were disappointed that Clinton is using their mother as supporting her, Ann Richards was a strong woman, and I believe she would have backed Obama. No, one can say whom someone would vote for when that person is deceased, people change when they see a great change coming and Obama is our change. I am a native Texan and shame on Clinton for using false advertisement; I am tired of Clinton whining myself, and we have real issues at hand.

4 Obama all the way   February 27th, 2008 6:46 am ET

Reject, denounce; my thing is Farrakan is just one person with his own views, just because he said Obama was a good guy does not mean Obana is doing business with him. These words Clinton want's Obama to use is just radical. Obama stand up and be your own man, if denounce is the word to use then use it. This why Hillary is not the front runner.

Nando   February 27th, 2008 6:45 am ET

I trust Barak not HILLARY!!!!!!!

wthwah   February 27th, 2008 6:45 am ET

OMG… Does she have anything else to whin about. Hillary, it's cold where I live, why don't you reject and denounce that? How can she possibly hold Mr. Obama accountable for something someone else said? Ms. Clinton, this is AMERICA, FREEDOM OF SPEECH. You are running for the office which upholds and defends the Constitution, and you are attacking someone for not rejecting someone else for use of thier constitutional rights.

You have just made my mind up for me, I cannot vote for someone, that has demonstrated such poor taste, quick over-reaction, and complete failure to understand the responsibilities the President of the United States has.

You appear to have lost your control, and that is something a president must be able to control, seeing a) We don't need another Bush-type of president, and B) what will the President of Iran or N. Korea cause you to do when you snap because they piss you off.

Too scary…

Geri in Pennsylvania   February 27th, 2008 6:43 am ET

CNN is biased for Obama. It will be remembered by us
that want unbiased coverage.

Obama last night stated he was on the Foreign Relations
Committee. Hilliary chairs an oversite under that Committee only and over a country we are at war with, yet hasn't called a meeting? Hilliary, McCain or any of them would get blasted, but not CNN's darling. Is it love for Obama, or just hatred of Clinton's by CNN? Due to media running election, for first time in my 58 years I will not vote rather then vote Obama to let the media win.

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 6:40 am ET

For all the folks that do not understand the differance between DENOUNCE and REJECT……..Hillary really got obama here.

DENOUNCE = BLAMEWORTHY

REJECT= REFUSE

Hopefully some help while debating goes a long way.

Kimberly in Texas   February 27th, 2008 6:39 am ET

Please check out the definitions of reject and denounce….clearly denounce is a much stronger word and correctly reflects the response.

That being said, Senator Obama rejected and denounced Farrakhan's support. Therefore, can we now get past this and any other divisive issues.

And shame on you CNN with your poll regarding "the photo".

aPuerto Rican   February 27th, 2008 6:38 am ET

Sen. HC made points, but the faces of 'EVE' continue to be her downslide. Sen, Obama held his own and was stronger in area where many people are concern with. Bottle line both these individual have talent, but Sen. Obama is the the individual that should run this great counrty for the next four years. Now if he proof to be the DEM. who he is putting down in many of his of debates, then "We the People' move on and search for the right individual to get us( U.S.) though these situation that have been damageing both here in the U.S.A. and the world. I'll give him four and then will see. YES WE CAN!!

Martin   February 27th, 2008 6:36 am ET

To be honest, the debate highlighted that MSNBC is much superior and fairer than CNN. The questions were hard hitting, interesting and superior.After watching last nights debate( I think Obama was protected by CNN during your channels debates, I also notice CNN are starting to attack McCain and promote Obama) it is clear to me that I can not take your news channel serious regarding political coverage.

L Niemczycki   February 27th, 2008 6:35 am ET

It seems to me that the longer Senetor Clinton is on TV, the more she hurts her self image. She comes of as desperate and a tyrant.
I think she needs yet another campaign manager.

Joanne Urish   February 27th, 2008 6:34 am ET

I am soooo proud of Senator Obama! He was quite Presidential.
Hillary was rather pathetic. Truly, quite sad. She is grasping at straws and it shows. I do hope she can end up on a graceful note, with a degree of dignity. It's almost like she is determined to humiliate herself. .

Joanne Urish, Glasford, IL

George   February 27th, 2008 6:33 am ET

I think Hillary is crying "unfair" because she is not winning. In the kindergarten playground, we call that "sore loser."

Joseph, Honolulu, Hawaii   February 27th, 2008 6:31 am ET

Obama's REFLEX (knee jerk reaction) to mildly denounce the anti semitic Farrakhan verbal support, is telling of how Obama really feels about it. He obviously doesn't really feel strongly about definitively rejecting Farrkhan's support. His body language and facial expressions seem very indifferent as well. It's fine that he changed the word to reject, but he really didn't seemed bothered by the support.

It amazes me how much disfavor I see for Hillary Clinton. If you want to judge the woman, do so on her accomplishments and her life's work. She has championed civil and human rights around this country and around the world. She spoke at a public political event in China rejecting their abuse of woman and children. She fought so hard for the rights of minority groups, children, and women around this country. Healthcare, my god……. this is her life's work, all she wants to do is offer everyone the chance to have health care.

Tom Swift   February 27th, 2008 6:31 am ET

Actually "denounce" is the stronger word.

Last night I "rejected" an offer of another beer. But i like beer, so I didn't "denounce" it. If I didn't like beer and didn't think beer was good, I would "denounce" it as being bad.

Obama was right the 1st time when he denounced Farrakhan.

He was also right when he later both denounced AND rejected Farrakhan.

Obama proved that he wasn't going to argue over the meaning of "is" … he used BOTH words to make his stance perfectly clear.

McCain '08

John   February 27th, 2008 6:31 am ET

Why, CNN, focus only such a small part of the debate….what about Clinton's weasle-worded answer when asked, yet again, if she will release, as Obama did, her income tax records? I think she has no choice but to release but I can anticipate what will happen when she does—-she will redact key names of sources of income in order to "protect their confidentiality" and/or "intrusion into their personal financial affairs".

John, Washington DC   February 27th, 2008 6:30 am ET

Minister? Minister?

I can't believe Obama (even minimally) dignified someone who leads an organization that is blatantly racist and religiously intolerant of the Judeo-Christian faiths. Who was he trying to show respect to (or pander to)?

Hillary hit that nail right on the head. As a white Christian, she was 100% in her right to press him on that – let's keep intolerance on a level playing field.

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 6:29 am ET

Everyone leave CNN alone……….Wolfman is the best ………………………
CNN reports it as they see fit, if you don't like it' then change the channel.

I watch CNN everynight, larry king and anderson cooper are wonderful.

CNN number 1……………………………………..whoa…………………………………….

Mike H.   February 27th, 2008 6:29 am ET

Clinton was right to ask Obama to reject Farrakhan's support . But she and Tim Russert should also have pressed him on the close relationship between Rev. Jeremiah Wright and Farrakhan. Wright is Obama's spiritual advisor, who, among other things, married the Obamas. He is also a big supporter of Farrakhans and his publication recently named the racist and anti-Semitic Nation of Islam leader "man of the year."

Joseph, LA, CA   February 27th, 2008 6:27 am ET

Interestingly, Clinton is probably the more electable Democrat, in spite of all the polling. The simple fact is that only 4 or 5 states will determine the outcome of this election–Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Indiana, and perhaps Missouri and Iowa. The rest will fall in line with the results of the 2004 Bush v. Kerry results.

Clinton has a better shot at winning in any of these States than Barack does, except for the last 2 states. The huge wins Obama racked up in Southern and Mountain states during the primaries are unlikely to lead to general election victories. With Clinton, even Texas can come into play. With Obama, the Latino vote will migrate to McCain.

The biggest concern for Obama is that his candidacy may place states such as Pennsylvania and even California in play, forcing him to divert resources. A candidate who cannot win a single big state, except for his own will be problematic at best.

The upcoming primaries will be interesting. A narrow victory in Texas for Obama is not a good sign. A major loss in Ohio could mean that he may have no chance in the general election.

And given his campaign's insistence to leave out the Florida delegation, he has practically no chance of winning that state in November.

meg   February 27th, 2008 6:26 am ET

denounce or reject. i agree you only reject after an offer has been made. clinton made this an issue because she doesn't anything else. farrakhan was only brought up because of the picture her office put out.

clinton should know by now "no weapon formed against him is going to prosper" God is on obama side

American Patriot   February 27th, 2008 6:25 am ET

Clinton and Obama both are members of the CFR.

GOOGLE THE CFR

I hope you all realize what you have done by voting for eiter.

Please GOOGLE and YOUTUBE the TCC and the BUILDERBERG GROUP

Or you can YOUTUBE videos of the FEMA Consentration camps being buildt in America, complete with furnaces to cremate people.

Go ahead and look, I dare you..

You have been warned. The North American Union is forming

Michael, North Carolina   February 27th, 2008 6:24 am ET

Sen. Obama did a great job in the debate tonight. Sen. Obama is biracial and wants all of the races to work together for the common good of American. Sen. Clinton needs to go back to Yale and understand the fact that denounce and reject means the same thing. Sen. Obama does not agree with the hate and lies that Farrakhan talks about. I believe Farrakhan wants to sabtage Sen.Obama. He knows both black and white people denounce and reject his message of hate. So he would love to pull the good Senator down with him. Sen. Obama loves America and the American people. Sen. Obama is the Joe Louis, FDR, and JFK of our generation. Together with Sen. Obama we go fourth as a united nation.

YES WE CAN
Obama/Edwards '08

david   February 27th, 2008 6:23 am ET

Way to go Hill….those are cajones people! We don't want someone who's afraid to come down on a radical racist because he afraid to offend them or lose some votes.

TEXAS FOR HILLARY

HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT

OBAMA FOR VICE PRESIDENT

If you don't agree with the above, it will be McCain in the WH.

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 6:22 am ET

CNN another great job, abama was weak again……………………………….

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 6:21 am ET

Hillary you are so clever, the black people can't know that due to there
lower I.Q.

Lisa in TN   February 27th, 2008 6:20 am ET

'I absolutely think that it is imperitive that we must recognize the necessity of perceiving the obvious importance of…..blah, blah, blah….' Hillary really says a whole lot of nothing most of the time.

Really, Hillary, do you think he needs to say 'reject' instead of 'denounce?' Just words??????

Mike   February 27th, 2008 6:20 am ET

Hillary was way too cute in parsing words, bringing back memories of her husband's attempt to deflect the truth when he said, "…It's all in how you define what "is" is…" The only person made to look bad by her attempt tonight was Hillary.

Bill Jay   February 27th, 2008 6:19 am ET

Hillary was great as always………………………………….08……………………….

obama hinted that he can not fix anything without the people,
what kind of Pres. would that be???????????????????/

A LEADER makes the choices, not the people. Think of all the
zero's out there, like you know who.

DMON   February 27th, 2008 6:16 am ET

I didn't see CNN put a headline up all day after Cunningham made the remark that McCain "denounced". If we are going to hold a candidate accountable for people that support them then we have millions to scrutinize! It seems as if all anyone can do is make fun or shed light on things that Barack had no decision on, His name, who supports him, what he wears, if he holds his hand over his heart, and all it does is make fools out of our so-called public critics. Nice to know that "prejudice" is alive and well!

Gina   February 27th, 2008 5:02 am ET

Reject as stated by Websters: to refuse to accept, recognize, believe; to refuse (a person) recognition, acceptance; to expel, react against physiologically; to cast away as worthless, discard.

Denounce as stated by Websters: to condemn openly and vehemently, inveigh against; to inform against, accuse; to give formal notice of the termination of (a treaty, truce).

Both have strong meanings to be against or to refuse something or someone. If you ask me Obama was being the gentleman when he conceded the point to Clinton. To me this seems to show that Obama would be more diplomatic when it comes to running the country and in handling sensitive matters. Also Obamas demeanor and poise shows that he can keep a cool head in times of opposition. Whereas Clintons demeanor showed just the opposite. I found her comment about the SNL show and giving Obama a "pillow" to be very childish and immature. If the "media" has been tough on her, it is because she has brought it on herself with the way she has been acting and with the things she has said. And before anyone decides to jump on me for this comment or before you accuse me of being an "Obama maniac" or a "Clinton hater" I never said who I was voting for because quite honestly I am still undecided. I'm just simply laying out the facts as I see them (except for the definitions posted above, those really are Websters words). But I will say this, when I vote, I will vote for whom I believe to be the best choice not for whom the "media" or anyone writing on these blogs tells me I should vote for.

Sebastian   February 27th, 2008 4:15 am ET

A question for Hillary: would you vote for Lois Lane?

denise   February 27th, 2008 4:14 am ET

this was a pretty good question by the moderator and good point made by clinton. really what does this Farrakhan stand for?? just about everything that obamas "change" campaign does not. so its like an oxymoron.
obama needs to grow a pair and start talking like someone who is running to be the leader of the most powerful country in the world. is he a nice guy? sure. does he speak well? yeah. is he telling the public what they want to hear? ofcourse. its all smoke, i think he will be a great disappointment to this country if he is elected. we need a leader and so far he hasn't impressed me at all.

Molly   February 27th, 2008 4:14 am ET

Clinton's desperate because if she doesn't win both Ohio and Texas, she's through.

Kudos to Obama for keeping a level head and once again avoiding Clinton's dirty politics.

Chuma C. I'Aronu   February 27th, 2008 4:12 am ET

It is a shame. I had expected better politics form our former first lady, Hillary Clinton. After all the advantages nature, parentage, race and position afforded her, she still whines and complains about everything. Think again, is this the President we deserve? She has lost by herself. Count me out as her supporter. How can she play the victim, it doesnt fit.

Andrea   February 27th, 2008 4:08 am ET

U guys are funny lol. Look, at the end of the day, they're both Politicians. The decision now rest on rather or not which candidate America wants to marry for the next 4 years. Choose wisely, because we can't take this one back, even if we have the receipt.

Ben Dover   February 27th, 2008 4:08 am ET

Do you really want to turn the country over to Obama?
It's clear to me, that the only reason Obama is getting the white male vote is because the majority of men in this country are insecure in their manhood. They think it may make them look weak if they vote for a woman. I'm sure the Texans who are secure in their manhood will take the lead in this, after all they know they are not weak and they are secure in their manhood. Neither will they be swayed by delusions of grandeur that Obama is doling out by the bucketfuls.
I would be very wary of this man with a clear Muslim background and ancestry.

JOHN D LASLAU   February 27th, 2008 4:07 am ET

CLINTON, AS A SENATOR OF TEXAS, WHEN IS THE LAST TIME HE COOKED A GOOD STEAK FOR HER HUSBAND BILLY CLINTON?
I THINK AMERICA DESERVE TO KNOW!!!

tony   February 27th, 2008 4:04 am ET

I think the headline is misleading, CNN. People who didn't watch the debate may be led to think that this was a major bone of contention in the debate. It wasn't. Highlighting it is playing into Clinton's treachery.

JOHN D LASLAU   February 27th, 2008 4:03 am ET

CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT IN AMERICA = WRONG, AS WRONG AS WRONG CAN BE!!!
CLINTON HILLARY SHOULD COOK FOR BILL INSTEAD!
WHEN IS THE LAST TIME BILL HAD A STEAK COOKED BY HILLARY?
ANYONE KNOWS?
WAS THAT IN THE STONE AGES?
PLEASE LET ME KNOW!!!

Pattyshaw, Nigeria   February 27th, 2008 4:03 am ET

I wonder why we are crying over to english words (Denouce and reject). A dictionary (oxford advanced learner) meaning of denounce is to strongly criticise something and somebody you think is wrong and illegal while to reject means to refuse to accept or consider somebody or something. If Minister Farrakhan endorsed Obama, it is only a statement of acceptance, which he critically dissociated himself from by his denunciation.

If you view these words technically, to denouce is stronger than reject because you consider that thing or person not only wrong ,etc, but you see it as EVIL. Since Hillary wanted him to use the word reject, I am happy he did to satisfy her DESPERATION.

I would also say that it would be difficult for someone to reject an endorsement because he (Farrakhan) has freedom of speech.

So lets leave english language behind and head unto the POLLS come March 4th, so we can see the clearer nominee between the duo.

Lily   February 27th, 2008 4:00 am ET

The more HRC open her mouth, the more people run away from her! Talking about experience LOL!! She got it alright…..NOT!!

D Nelson   February 27th, 2008 3:59 am ET

This is one of the dumbest arguments in a debate I have ever heard. Clinton is really grasping at straws on this one.

First of all – you cannot reject someone's endorsement. An endorsement is some one basically saying "I support this person". To reject (meaning "to refuse to agree to") the endorsement would be to say "I agree to you supporting me." It is illogical. It doesn't make sense. You cannot accept or reject how someone else feels. People will support whomever they want whether that person "accepts" or "rejects" it.

Barack Obama had it right. He denounced the anti semitic comments of Farrakhan, and stated the Farrakhan will have no connection with his campaign.

Also, as stated by an earlier poster, denounce is a stronger word than reject – so Hillary was wrong on that account, too.

James   February 27th, 2008 3:58 am ET

Clinton should have divorced Bill at the first when he got caught with Monica then I beleive there wouldn't be anything that could stop her.

JOHN D LASLAU   February 27th, 2008 3:56 am ET

CLINTON IS AGAINST OUR FREE SPEACH. CLINTON SUPPORTS CHINA. THAT'S WHERE MOST OF THEIR MONEY COME FROM…
…CLINTON SHOULD RUN FOR PRESIDENT IN CHINA INSTEAD!!!

Darryl M., Arlington TX   February 27th, 2008 3:55 am ET

Like Hillary,I just can not let this go Blacks and Jews have a great History. Equal Opporttunity would have not happen with out the support of the Jewish community.

Hillary attemping to seperate the Blacks and the Jewish community nice try.

Hillary has been losing her base support this was a question that was not asked of her, The reason behind her answer was to divide the black and jewish vote.

Let not let Hillary win this was nothing but a cheap shot,

MARYLOU JONES   February 27th, 2008 3:51 am ET

LOUIS FARRAHKAN DIDN'T JUST SAY OBAMA 'was a good guy". HE SAID OBAMA WAS THE "SAVIOUR OF AMERICA"! THAT IS A HUGH DIFFERENCE AND HAS A WHOLE LOT OF CONNOTATIONS. MOST AMERICANS BELIEVE WE ALREADY HAVE A SAVIOUR! I THOUGHT OBAMA SHOULD HAVE BEEN STRONGER IN HIS REJECTION OF FARRAHKAN'S FILTH HE SPOUTS!

Laurie   February 27th, 2008 3:49 am ET

Don (above) is correct: If Obama genuinely disagrees with Farrakhan, he needs to say so without ANY reservation. But Obama is not one to publicly commit to a belief or opinion and IF he becomes president, Americans will be complaining not long after election day that he is "weak."

Millie watson   February 27th, 2008 3:48 am ET

I'm greatly looking forward to all the obamamaniacs waking up in a year and realising they werent voting for american idol.

jacq   February 27th, 2008 3:47 am ET

Hillary's comments about who supports Obama just reinforces the point of how she will critise any and all things connected with him on a regular basis. Besides she didn't look presidential tonight. Attacking the moderators and Obama- I'm surprised she didn't attack the audience for not clapping loudly in support of her (lack of self control, eh?). Is this the behavior she will present to both America and the World if she is elected president? Maybe the voters need to DENOUNCE her attacks or is it REJECT them? 70% of people texting opinion-said Obama won tonight's debate according to MSNBC analysis.

malka   February 27th, 2008 3:46 am ET

I find it absolutely appaling the comments received from Obamo supporters. They are so derogatory – do they not have any self respect. If these are the type of people who are supporting him then I cannot say much for the man himself. I am also astonished at the coverage CNN are giving Clinton. You are so biased with your whole political team especially that awful woman Gloria. Small facial features = small mind. Be fair. Clinton is a person who should also command respect. She is a woman of worth so please treat her with respect as well. Mr Obamo wants to please the whole world – Republicans and all the rest!!!

Open_ears   February 27th, 2008 3:41 am ET

Now I am not sure what debate the author of this was watching but it changes the order of statements and distorts how this really played out….CNN you should really review the transcript and edit this.

John   February 27th, 2008 3:40 am ET

Both are valid, I'm glad both were done, but I agree with Obama that denounce is the stronger word.

de·nounce

1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.

re·ject

1. to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.: to reject the offer of a better job.

Timo Garcia   February 27th, 2008 3:40 am ET

The way the clintons have been treated by some of these obama supporters (including the media) is stomach churning. It hurts to see our one shot at retaking the white house spiralling off on some mad poorly-thought through experimental hype trip that is Barack Obama. A voice in your ear whispers: He really is an eloquent but empty call for change. You think obama's still going to be the coolest kid in school a year from now? Come on. BUYERS REMORSE SUCKS. go hillary. even if the democratic party doesnt seem as decent and headstrong as it used to be, thanks to some of the shameful obama supporters, willing to trash the family thats done more for it than any other in decades, the clintons.

Dave. San Diego, CA   February 27th, 2008 3:40 am ET

Reject –
1. to refuse to have, take, recognize
2. to refuse to grant
3. to refuse to accept
4. to discard as useless or unsatisfactory
5. to cast out or eject; vomit

Denounce -
1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly
2. to make a formal accusation against,
3. to give formal notice of the termination or denial of

Looks to me like Denounce is the stronger term. Once again, it looks as though Senator Clinton deserves the uneducated vote.

Zen   February 27th, 2008 3:38 am ET

This was a pivotal point in the debate. It's the kind of question that can make or break a candidate. Barack answered it with honesty and integrity and no hesitation. Clinton tried to make an issue by splitting hairs and it didnt work. Denounce or Reject… what? My confidence grows more and more in Senator Obama. I see why the Republicans are so concerned. McCain will get more than he can handle going up against Obama.

HCheng   February 27th, 2008 3:38 am ET

I think Obama's point was since Farrakhan was not offering anything, there is nothing to "reject". He did state emphatically that he "denounced" anything Farrakhan said about the Jews, etc..

But Tim Russert pushed the point, making as though Obama is refusing to "reject " Farrakhan's views.

And here's where I actually think HRC did some good and piled on Obama, who quickly realized he was digging a hole if he didn't make it clear and use the word "reject" explicitly.

To Obama's credit, he saw how explosive this could become if he insisted on splitting hair with Tim Russert.

With the African robe thing still in people's mind, the last thing Obama needs now is another "ethhnic" headline.

You sometimes really have to thank Hillary for making Obama a better candidate going into GE.

Ed, Houston, TX   February 27th, 2008 3:37 am ET

I think Sen. Obama flipped back and answered that question perfect. I believe Sen. Obama shows more strength on foreign policy, health care and education. I think many people underestimate Sen. Hillary, but she still have a chance.

joe   February 27th, 2008 3:35 am ET

it is all very clear that hillary clinton is not having the kind of result she was hoping for in this election, so this is her way of trying to make obama the bad choice. sorry it did not work.

Nancy   February 27th, 2008 3:35 am ET

Tonight's debate made two things clear to me.

Obama is presidential; Hillary is petty.

Not only does MSNBC put on a better debate, they provide balanced, fair journalism.

FYI, Barack was right in using denounced.

reject: (verb) to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc…

de·nounce: (verb) to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.

Tony   February 27th, 2008 3:33 am ET

This wouldn't even be an issue if most Americans really understood English.

CEEJAY   February 27th, 2008 3:29 am ET

Hillary is a wonderful candidate, i like her as a person, but i see HIM as a president. Obama is the ONE!!!!, he has the common sense, satisfactory experience, and personality needed for the job.

Stephen   February 27th, 2008 3:28 am ET

It's disapointing that CNN feels this was a more important part of the debate than any of the real issues presented tonight. Sen. Clinton sadly came off as trying to land punches where none needed to be thrown, such as whining about having to answer first…or trying to pin Sen. Obama down on a support that he clearly didn't ask for or want. Given her careening all over the emotional and political map since the last debate, with rage, sarcasm, and more pointless attacks, it shows the true desperation of a campaign in trouble. Tonights debate only served to solidify my opinion on that. I felt Obama clearly seemed well prepared to defend himself, and presented well thought out responses. I don't see this debate benefiting Clinton at all.

Tracy   February 27th, 2008 3:27 am ET

denounced is a stronger word then reject.

Hillary was so unprofessional tonight.

Tommy   February 27th, 2008 3:27 am ET

I'm trying to picture other world leaders taking President Hillary seriously after all the whining, crying and flip-flopping she's done, and I just can't see it. She (and her silly husband) lost this contest before it was run…thank God.

Switzerland Observer   February 27th, 2008 3:26 am ET

REJECT VS DENOUNCE (WORDS MATTER?):

re·ject -a verb used as an object…
1. to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.: to reject the offer of a better job.
2. to refuse to grant (a request, demand, etc.).

de·nounce -verb (used with object), -nounced, -nounc·ing. 1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.

1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.

THEREFORE DENOUNCE MORE APPROPRIATE FOR CASE IN POINT: BARACK correct, HRC wrong!

Mag   February 27th, 2008 3:25 am ET

CNN's headline is even more absurd than Hillary's comments, and are shameless. Obama has had nothing to do with Farrakhan, and in plain and simple terms that apparently only Hillary can't understand has clearly rejected Farrakhan. As a Jew from Chicago, I support Obama 100% and don't trust Hillary any more than Farrakhan.

jeff   February 27th, 2008 3:19 am ET

Obama has a poor choice of cheerleaders and an even poorer defence of the matter.

Keneu   February 27th, 2008 3:17 am ET

Obama conceded the point. Excellent. Because the issue was absurd. Splitting hairs.

What I was hoping Obama would say was, "Other than in words, exactly how do you reject someone's support? What is the act of rejecting support? You ignore them and do not accept their help." And I think he made it clear that he has been doing that since day one with Farrakhan.

But I think being man enough to concede was even better. Of course if it was a relevant important issue that required distinction, then yes, of course, fight on.

rock usula   February 27th, 2008 3:16 am ET

Admittedly this is not Clinton's best debate – but she did get several of her points across nicely, although it's not as eloquent as it should have been. Points noted though that O seems to be to much concern with looking presidential. As usual, O takes responsibility without taking responsibility. The guy is a supernatural politician. Hillary is more qualified, but she should have been more specific.

Cindy Geer   February 27th, 2008 3:14 am ET

Obama is wish-wash about his statements about politics.

Michele   February 27th, 2008 3:14 am ET

"This kind of shameless headline-writing is racist and meant to incite controversy. Shame on you CNN!"

Exactly my thoughts, Brad. Sad.

Nat   February 27th, 2008 3:11 am ET

Obama lost tonight's debate, Hillary was ready and answered everything very nicely done. At some point of the debate Obama was lost, sometimes he didn't know what to answer.

Anyway, Hillary you're right. Obama is so naive….

E   February 27th, 2008 3:11 am ET

Bottom Line Obama doesnt have the experience. Go Hillary

MAT from Chicago, Ilinois   February 27th, 2008 3:08 am ET

Why is that every time Minister Farrakhan leads his support to a black official, that official has to reject/dounce the Minister's support? That's very disturbing. I don't recall John McCain denoucing Cunningham or Trent Lott rejecting Strom. Furthermore why is she quibbling over denouce vs reject? I guess that was the toilet because it was typical Clinton – - – -.

Rachel   February 27th, 2008 3:08 am ET

Hillary did not HIT Obama with Farrakhan. If anything Chris Russert did that. Quit playing favorites CNN and take a note from Paul Begala.

ZB   February 27th, 2008 3:05 am ET

B.O. keeps his cool again and Clinton plays the race card again. Desperate (she was supposed to be good under pressure?) and sick, underhanded tactics.
Blech.
B.O. has some serious composure. That shows maturity and readiness right there.

bornwell   February 27th, 2008 3:03 am ET

bravo obama you are the man

deb   February 27th, 2008 3:00 am ET

I was glad someone had the balls to bring up the Farrakahn endorsement and Rev. Wright Jr…it needed to be adressed. I know for a fact too, that most comments on all these websites are posted by young men. No one ever factors in the millions of people who don't participate in this crap and whos votes will be cast for Hillary…you Obamaboys control the web but not the voting booths! He may win with his mysterious charisma that is lost on me…I want an experienced President and so do millions of Americans which is why McCain will win. Get used to it. Plus we can't afford all the extra Secret Service we will have to employ for Obama!

Francis, Hawaii   February 27th, 2008 2:59 am ET

Clinton getting desperate! Nit picking everything, even irrelevent things!

big Rich   February 27th, 2008 2:59 am ET

the clinton big SUV is running out of gas. hope bill can hick up his skirt and find a intern to lend them a clue. It's over let it go.

Will A.   February 27th, 2008 2:58 am ET

It was obvious that Barack initially hesitated to reject the support of the Farrakhan until Hillary called him out on it. Whether or not he “denounces” or “rejects” their support, the way that the question was answered implied that he was not quite rejecting their support, which prompted Hillary to respond to it.

Danny   February 27th, 2008 2:57 am ET

How Clinton can espouse to take the high road with a straight face mirrors her husband's tendency to speak out of both sides of his mouth. If she had an even an ounce of character in her body she would have never elected to submit her candidacy for our highest of public offices. How can the spouse of our disgraced former President be still in the running and how can we even fathom allowing the possibility of the spouse of this philanderer to grace his presence in the White House again…

HILLARY = SILLY SEASON   February 27th, 2008 2:56 am ET

I can't believe Hillary.

WHAT A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HILLARY & OBAMA. Night & Day!!!

Obama spent several minutes stating that in no way, shape or form does he accept that person's view and Obama also said that he denounces.

But the divisive Hillary tries to open silly season again.

Obama stayed calm and Presidential and said one of the best lines of the night and made Hillary look so bad.

Now something similar happened when it was reported that Hillary's campaign sent out that picture of Obama. When Hillary said she did not do it, Obama accepted Hillary's response.

OBAMA YOU ARE A BREATH OF FRESH ARE!!!

Please lets us all DENOUNCE & REJECT Hillary!!!

VOTE OBAMA '08

Austin E   February 27th, 2008 2:54 am ET

When am I going to see a headline on CNN like "Clinton proposes new education policy" or "Clinton offers new healthcare plan". It seems any headline now has "Clinton" followed by slams, hits, attacks or mudslings. This shouldn't be what the campaign is about.

Lisa K   February 27th, 2008 2:54 am ET

Obama clearly was not happy about the comments of Farrakhan so this is really a foolish argument – it was again about semantics and word choice, not substantive issues.

Having said that, it is important, I suppose to look at the technical definitions of these word choices. So the question is should Obama "reject" or "denounce" the comments of Farrakhan. According to answers.com, reject is a verb which means: "To refuse to accept, submit to, believe, or make use of" and denounce means the following: "To condemn openly as being evil or reprehensible."

So, I personally see little difference between these 2 definitions, except that to denounce seems: (a) harsher (since it is a condemnation, not just a refusal); and (b) more appropriate in this situation (since you need to reject something and if that something…in this case, Farrakhan's verbal support…is not asked for, how can you reject it…I mean how can you reject someone saying something positive about you).

So, the bottom line to me is that Obama is clearly more cerebral and technical in his word-choice than Clinton, even though she was the one hammering "reject", not "denounce". So, in the end, Obama rightfully made Clinton look nitpicky by "rejecting and denouncing" Farrakhan's support.

:) Lisa

edmond   February 27th, 2008 2:52 am ET

change topic,farrakhan is nobody

DeeDee   February 27th, 2008 2:52 am ET

Does CNN think we' re stupid? As Clinton pointed out, the media puts her at a disadvantage and then complains when she points it out. By asking her the questions first, it clearly protects Obama from looking foolishly uninformed and unprepared. Obama has time to formulate his answer based on what Clinton says. This is an elmentary school trick. Let's not be naive.

Obama has trouble answering unscripted questions. This is apparent in several encounters with the press. He obviously has not given much thought to topics and events of the world outside his stump speeches. He is not knowledgeable and is ill-prepared to handle the major problems this country faces both domestically and internationally

karl   February 27th, 2008 2:52 am ET

Hillary, shut up all ready. Get out of the race and go back and finish your last term as the senator from New York, then retire. You need and this country needs a vacation from you and Bill, permanently!

Isaac   February 27th, 2008 2:50 am ET

By the way, no one wants to say this, but Barack's mannerisms and interruptions and reactions truly are arrogant and quite horrible towards Hillary in all of the debates we've seen thus far…

Duke   February 27th, 2008 2:49 am ET

She's was reaching….. what a joke.

Silas   February 27th, 2008 2:49 am ET

I believe that it will better for Sen Hillary to drop out and let Sen Obama to face McCain.Indeed, she needs to know that everything is over because she cannot convain people.

Chris Dodd supports Obama too !   February 27th, 2008 2:48 am ET

Did you see how upset Billary became during the debates? Imagine her having access to our national military with that kind of emotional volatility. Emotional turmoil= economic turmoil. That's not the kind of "experience" we can believe in. We need the collectiveness of true leadership and Senator Obama has consistently provided that strength in each of the last 20 debates.

lee   February 27th, 2008 2:48 am ET

i will not vote this election. it is making me sick.

L.C.   February 27th, 2008 2:46 am ET

Baracks' church holds Farrakahn in high regard, why would he be different?

Pon Mao   February 27th, 2008 2:46 am ET

There is a saying "don't do to others if you don't want the same done to you", maybe Hillary Clinton's campaign is failing is because she had too much bad kama ?

Food for thought!   February 27th, 2008 2:45 am ET

Well, I am not surprised that not CNN nor any of Senator Obama's supporters here have mentioned that Senator Obama made an admission this evening that I think goes to his vulnerability which is poor judgment.

He admitted tonight that he voted for the Salvo bill in Congress and that he knew better having been a Constitutional Law Professor. If he knew what he was teaching, why did he go and vote against the Constitution? Now that is poor judgment – and that comes from no experience in the office that he was holding – Senator.

I will not vote for him for President if he gets the nomination. Simply put his actions do not go along with his words! Hope Hillary hits this point big in the next couple of days! Wake up folks – Senator Obama just isn't all that good!!!!!!!!! He is politics as usual in Washington DC.

Voting for something that was wrong to vote for and knowing it at the time of the vote – perhaps that is why Michelle Obama hasn't been proud of the United States all of her adult life.

Linus   February 27th, 2008 2:42 am ET

News flash:

Obama does not want wacko's endorsement.

In other news, America yawned broadly.

Dem   February 27th, 2008 2:42 am ET

Nice try Hillary, she was trying to get headline out of it but Barack answered the way she want it unlike her refusing to apologize about the authorization of the Iraq war.

Chelsee Klinton   February 27th, 2008 2:39 am ET

This very reason is why McCain attacked Obama via Cunningham: Hillary is so irrelevant to the Presidential race that the two presidential frontrunners ( McCain and Obama) are now focused on one another as the nation watch the showdown between them. Hillary is already a done deal. She is small-minded, divisive and always tries to bait Senator Obama in tit-for-tat trivialities. She doesn't get it.

Ron   February 27th, 2008 2:38 am ET

shut up cnn. we are you trying to make an issue out of a non-issue? there is nothing there and you know it.

clinton is getting more desperate every minute.

Michal   February 27th, 2008 2:37 am ET

Is anyone surprised that Clinton is resorting to these tactics? She's lost 11 in a row and is desperate. Obama supporters send legitimate mailings about her support of NAFTA and she and her people respond in typical lowbrow fashion by spreading smears about Obama (the picture in the traditional Somali clothing)

Please ask yourselves a question Democrats; do you want to win the next presidential election or are you going to support Hillary? You can't have both…

Sara   February 27th, 2008 2:37 am ET

Hillary rocks, Barack suck

friend   February 27th, 2008 2:36 am ET

barack i hope you lose

Sherry   February 27th, 2008 2:35 am ET

I really appreciate the way Barack deals with these trumped up 'issues.' He's handled Hillary perfectly this campaign and will do even better against McCain.

Chris from California   February 27th, 2008 2:34 am ET

Tonight's debate made one thing very clear: Hillary Clinton is ready for the presidency. Barack Obama is not.

Oregon Voter   February 27th, 2008 2:34 am ET

Clinton was absolutely right to call Obama on his double standard. You saw how he handled the question. He didn't want to reject the endorsement because he wants every vote he can get. Hillary, on the other hand, is willing to sacrifice votes that are from inflammatory sources because she has strong moral beliefs. Those beliefs are more important that the votes, and she made the right stand. Obama was taught a valuable lesson from Hillary tonight, and I hope he learns from her.

Mar   February 27th, 2008 2:33 am ET

Shows how Clinton is just playing with words. She doesn't have anything else to fight with him. Go President Obama

Chris from California   February 27th, 2008 2:32 am ET

Someone asked "why do they always ask the African-American about Louis Farakkhan?" In this case, it is because Louis Farakkhan endorsed Barack Obama.

K from TX   February 27th, 2008 2:31 am ET

Why is this a headline? I mean, the question wasn't even meant for Hillary to comment on. She thought she saw an opportunity to take a swipe at Sen. Obama and, frankly, it backfired. He made it perfectly clear that he DOES NOT agree nor condone with Farrakhan's views, ideas or rhetoric regarding the Jewish people. He can't go and physically put a muzzle on the man. And she didn't "school" him. She tried to show him up and he made her look petty.

Barb in TN   February 27th, 2008 2:30 am ET

Did anyone notice how Obama kept smiling at Hillary like she was a misquided woman who he just has to put up with? How arrogant of him! I thought she came off much better in the debate, he actually bored me with most of his responses since he was just parroting Hillary.
Instead of these debates I would like for the news people to sit down with the canidates separately and do at least an hour show on their policies. That way everyone could see what they stand for and how they plan on getting it done. Too many people don't want to bother with looking these things up for themselves.
Only Hillary mentioned how she would pay for her health care. I understand that Obama's would raise everyones taxes at least 10%. Check it out folks, compare the two. Then decide who knows what they are doing.

lee   February 27th, 2008 2:30 am ET

come on this is not a race or sex election. If they can not win on there own merit. than drop out. let the race card go. If you are voting for obama because race or because you feel he is being given the race push just don't vote. because if he is not able to be elected without that race card being put out there we don't need him, If you are voting for hilary because she is a woman than we don't need her. we need a real president not a martor

Al Minor   February 27th, 2008 2:29 am ET

How ill informed is this electorate…? Doesn't the putatively "brilliant" Ms. Clinton realize that to DENOUNCE means "to reject that which is evil and and reprehensible," while REJECT, is simply "to deny." Sen. Obama, you dear venerated sir, are truly word smart– and have wisely built a campaign on the importance of words. On the other hand, Ms. Clinton has made it clear that we have duped by the grander misconceptionof her alleged depth and breath of knowledge.

Adam   February 27th, 2008 2:28 am ET

Are you kidding me, Clinton News Network? This was NOT the story of the debate; this wasn't even the story of this issue!

Clinton started an argument over terminology: denounce vs. reject. It was childish, petty, and just the sort of politics that Obama is trying to end!

Come on, Obama – finish off Clinton so we can TURN THE PAGE!

lee   February 27th, 2008 2:26 am ET

Look i think this election is just as bad as 2000. I hear the press and these specialist and we the people, complain about clintons vote on the war. when the first plane hit i was getting ready to go to the hospital to see my brother who was in a coma in the hospital. I was devastated. Everyday after that every person i talked too or heard on t.v. was also. Than eveyone was for this war or atleast most of us. We wanted revenge for all those people who lost there lives for no reason. They came over here and bombed us. 90 percent of us were for going after all those responable. So they voted and yes we went after them. but hey guess what bush lied about alot of things, go figure. and alot of lives were lost and still being lost. So now we the people do not want the war anymore, and guess what we need someone to blame. Now hilary voted yes to go to war and at the time we were on her side. obama voted no and we were not happy with anyone who did not care about all those lives lost in new york. now that the war is no longer a good idea and it is not going the way we wanted we need someone to blame. so who is in the spot light no other than hilary. Let me tell you i don't care she voted yes than that's over and we are as much to blame as anyone else.i want to know what are they going to do now. obama hangs on to his no vote like a badge. and hilary admits to voting and she would like to take it back. well there is alot i would like to take back but i can not and to lose an elections just for voting for something that was the thing to do at the time is wrong. after all did't we and bush push towards it. I admit bush lied alot but shouldn't this be put towards him instead of hilary. by the way to the press you need to cover this election like all the others this is not your personal witch hunt for hilary even if you think it is.

Sanfa   February 27th, 2008 2:26 am ET

I reject and denounce Hillary Clinton for the bull crap.

Kenneth   February 27th, 2008 2:21 am ET

I think that this just shows how much the American people need to really examine Obama's record and truthfulness when it comes to the presidential nomination. he clearly stumbled when it came to the questions dealing with farrakhan, public financing, and he did not have a clue about Russia's election. Americans are being misled by Obama to think that he can change this nation. If we wake up, we will see that Hillary Clinton is the BEST choice for Democrats to win in November. If not, by November, the Republicans will have reduced his candidacy of hope and change to scandals, lies, inexperience, incompetence, and the lack of providing this country with significant facts on how he will lead this country. Hope will never end a war, never provide universal healthcare, never negotiate NAFTA, never bring this country together, and never EVER wins elections! Examples of effective leadership only will do this. Wake up America! Hillary is your best chance of restoring faith in our political system.

Jan   February 27th, 2008 2:21 am ET

DENOUNCE which Obama said is even harsher language than reject. DENOUNCE means to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil. This is what Obama said, and meant when he said he denounced the disgrace that is Farrakhan.

Susan   February 27th, 2008 2:20 am ET

I agree with Brad –shame on CNN for this misleading and inflammatory headline. This headline is meant to imply some sort of link between Obama and Farrakhan, where there is none. I am Jewish and 100% comfortable with Obama's answer.

Jan   February 27th, 2008 2:20 am ET

DENOUNCE which Obama said is even harsher language than reject. DENOUNCE means to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil. This is what Obama said, and meant when he said he denounced the digrace that is Farrakhan.

deroy   February 27th, 2008 2:18 am ET

they would both dance to any tune farrakhan played.

they willhore for votes.

JR   February 27th, 2008 2:17 am ET

Notice the clever smile on Obama's face when Hillary said "there's a difference between denouncing and rejecting…" I didn't even have to hear him say anything. That expression told me he had her pegged. She simply sets him up for success.

…"happy to concede the point. I would reject and denounce…"

Ouch!! Sorry Hillary. You dug that hole yourself. BTW, a coin flip is used to determine who answers first. Tomorrow we'll be hearing this from the Clinton camp: SHAME ON YOU COIN!!!

David   February 27th, 2008 2:17 am ET

People say that this is the most exciting election ever! I think it's the most sickening!

L.C.   February 27th, 2008 2:17 am ET

I wonder why farakhan came out with his support was it to hurt Obama or maybe it was b/c obama didn't attend the sobu which he's attended several times. Is he friends with the the guy (TS) that sponsors the event. Hello

sem   February 27th, 2008 2:16 am ET

I think Obama won the debate and he was on point when he said renounce and reject is the same thing. And it is when you look it up. Hillary was just trying to come off as ascertive when she came as picky. I get the first answer, obama is treated nicer. Stop whinning Hillary, this is a grown ups game.

WhateverLady   February 27th, 2008 2:16 am ET

Reject: To refuse to accept, submit to, believe, or make use of.
Denounce: To condemn openly as being evil or reprehensible.

This woman needs to study a dictionary. If he has said renounce then she would have made sense. Otherwise this is total nonsense. Shame on CNN for making this a headline.

Word to Hillary: QUIT.

das   February 27th, 2008 2:16 am ET

From Merriam Webster's:

"denounce": to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil

"reject": to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose

decide for yourselves which word is stronger!

will   February 27th, 2008 2:16 am ET

the end is near for the Clinton's ladies and gentleman,she looked so desperate in that interview she has no answer for the brilliant senator.she should quit now to save herself and her party its game over.

goodbye Mrs Clinton

Beacon   February 27th, 2008 2:15 am ET

I think tonight really showed who is ready to be president of the united states. Sadly, Mr. Obama seemed at a lost for words, constantly reaching for things to say. I'm really not sure Mr. Obama is ready to be president.

If Hillary does not get questioned first, I don’t think Mr. Obama would have anything to build his answers on.

After tonight, I can truly say "we're going to need Hillary Clinton to be the next President of the United States. I felt bad for Mr. Obama. He was very unsure at times, and struggled solid solutions on the issues.

Regardless of what you think about Hillary, she's the most qualified to be president. I hope people will finally realized the seriousness of what we as a nation will face. We should put aside or dislike for one another and come to a united conclusion.

The question is not who is the most electable, but who is the best prepared to lead this country in the face of danger.

My choice, HRC Jan 20, 2009.

JohnC   February 27th, 2008 2:15 am ET

I am sick to death of the bias media. They not only wholeheartedly support Obama, but they refuse to report the truth of this man and his Muslim connection. I don't understand their motive and I don't appreciate that the media is so obviously supporting this man. Americans think for yourselves and do not let the networks choose your next President. Do your research and find out the true facts about this man, whom you are all following so blindly. I AM A LIFELONG DEMOCRAT but I know this is not the person to lead our Nation. May the TRUE God help us all. I am sure CNN with their bias attitude will not post this comment but shame on you CNN.

Andrew   February 27th, 2008 2:13 am ET

from m-w.com:

reject: a: to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose, or use b: to refuse to hear, receive, or admit

denounce: 1 : to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil

Words DO matter. Obama was right the first time.

denise   February 27th, 2008 2:12 am ET

Well there he goes again….dancing around yet another issue. America had better be very afraid…this guy is slick…but so was GW Bush. Americans sucked that up too ..and….voted him in twice!

True Million   February 27th, 2008 2:11 am ET

I think this issue is racist, thinly hidden by Clinton as a political issue. Clinton will lose Ohio and Texas because of her persistent negative mentality against Obama. Mark my words.

Brian   February 27th, 2008 2:09 am ET

What a dumb move on Hillary's part to try to push that point. That kind of a move might have worked if there were a real issue to latch onto. Stick a fork in that turkey.

And, Brad, Hillary's action may not rise to the level of slam, but it did come across as an extremely petty attempt to weaken Barack's sufficiently strong statement against Farrakhan. Hillary's a good politician, no doubt, but Obama is a leader.

Congratulations to Obama on running a fine campaign and earning the confidence of Americans of all races, genders, and economic levels.

Abed   February 27th, 2008 2:08 am ET

WOW… Hilary is is REALLY reaching now.,. she sounds desperate! Hilary, just shut up…

amanda   February 27th, 2008 2:08 am ET

shame on you hillary, i can't stand you any more complainng about Obama, you need to step down before is too late you can't handle the heat , Obama is good man go yes we can

pete   February 27th, 2008 2:06 am ET

tim russert was an awful moderator.

victoria   February 27th, 2008 2:06 am ET

leave cnn alone! take your sour grapes and your "shame on you" to the depressing hillary blog… where all the whiners are.

you guys are the past!

OBAMA IS THE FUTURE!

victoria   February 27th, 2008 2:03 am ET

You rock OBAMA!

Americas Choice, The People's voice!

YES WE CAN!

LC   February 27th, 2008 2:02 am ET

I was a little worried for Obama tonight, with HIllary needing a TKO (which I feared Russert and WIlliams would set up for her) but it never quite happened. Barack came out unscathed and looking more presidential than ever. I also noticed CNN wasn't doing nearly as much Tues evening quarterbacking, unlike their own "Clinton clinched" debate of last week – which was discussed ad nauseum then re-aired over… and over.. and over. I'm just saying…

kevin   February 27th, 2008 2:02 am ET

Well, after listening to the cleveland debate and applying serious thought and insite into my decision…I have decided to switch my vote…….to the hot latina helping hillary sign autographs!

Ruth   February 27th, 2008 2:01 am ET

Excellent, Hillary! You got Barack to agree with you to not only denounce Farakhan's anti-semitic stance but to totally reject it. Showed his arrogance once again when he said he couldn't stop anybody from saying he is a "good guy."

Chris   February 27th, 2008 1:58 am ET

Wow!! Barack Obama is a genius. He is absolutely focused on the big picture and will not be sidetracked. He knows what he wants to accomplish. His answer to the Farrakhan issue was superb. it showed how much the bigger man he is.

TheMist   February 27th, 2008 1:58 am ET

THANK YOU SO MUCH "BRAD".
UNITY OF ALL PEOPLE – WILL STILL STAND VERY VERY TALL IN HOPE (I REPEAT, IN HOPE) AND IN ACTION.

L. Parker   February 27th, 2008 1:58 am ET

Very mean spirited and deceptive on Hillary's part. She could care less about Farrakan. The idea was to incite a negative spin against Obama among Black voters…or White and Jewish voters who might have reservations.

Those comments were transparent, unnecessary, and utterly disappointing. Underestimating Obama is one thing, underestimating America is another.

Tony, Laredo, Texas   February 27th, 2008 1:57 am ET

Neither Obama or Hillary is Politics as usual as you can see. Clearly here Hillary knows what its about and she is struggling to get her point out because people are Glamourized about the idea of having the first Black president. C'mon Get real, when youre car is going bad you go to a mechanic you know and from his experience he knows whats wrong with it from the get go.
Obama is charming and popular, he is appealing to many, but he needs a bit more grip to hold on tight to oval office. Cuz its not only America watching this political show, its the whole world tuning in.

Cindy   February 27th, 2008 1:55 am ET

ha! jeez, Clinton.. why did you stop? You should have kept going…

But, do you just reject it, or do you "strongly" reject it?
On top of that do you "vehemently" "strongly" reject it?

Such dramatics…

you gotta know when to hold up.. know when to fold up..

Blah   February 27th, 2008 1:54 am ET

I think Clinton did what she had to do to today. For me, I want this to keep going. Clinton vs. Obama is way more exciting than Obama vs. McCain or Clinton vs. McCain. With Hillary, you not only have her, but Bill. With Obama, you have a new and fresh candidate that is very unique and strong-willed. And I agree with Tina Fey. Hillary gets the job done no matter what. Hillary is a ***** and ***** is the new black. I love it… I love it…

Sandy   February 27th, 2008 1:53 am ET

You people missed the point. Hillary proved that he is not strong. He needed to stand up and say I reject him and everything he stands for, not to wait to have someone make him say it. And by the way denounce and reject are not the same thing as Obama said. His church is going to be po'd for sure now.

Tinie   February 27th, 2008 1:53 am ET

Shame on you Hillary!!!
Not long ago your campaign posted a photo of Obama dressed in an African tradition attire, trying to link him that he's a muslim,which terribly back fired. Since that didn't help you discredit Obama, then again you brought in the endorsement of a muslim, Louis Farrakhan, again your point backfired! Why the hell can't be smart enough to find other strategies which can work like debating on the problems the American people are deprived of by the Old Washington Players who are Playing the Same Old Games Over and Over Again!!!
Grandma Wake Up!!! Why the hell are you forcing Him to be a
Muslim when He's Never been One!!! OBAMA GO GO '08!!!

Sean   February 27th, 2008 1:50 am ET

I laughed when Obama responded. He has truly made Hillary's candidacy into a joke. She should simply give it up, already!

Neu   February 27th, 2008 1:50 am ET

The statements that the Nation of Islam leader has used in the past were just words. No actions, just words. Sen. Clinton stated herself that words don't matter, just action. Even If Sen. Clinton wins Texas and Ohio, they won't be by large enough margins to really make a dent in Sen. Obama's lead. If indeed she does loses one of these states I hope that even her most avid supporters will began to think about healing the party and not further fracturing it.

Laura   February 27th, 2008 1:48 am ET

Obama is gaining strength without being condescending. Clinton is up for fighting. She is a whiner and a loser. My prayers are the "superdelegates" vote as the populus votes and not because of disgusting corporate interests. If McCain wins this election, we will have more of the same with another Neocon at the helm. I cannot even fathom this. Stay strong Obama! You've got what it takes!

incredible   February 27th, 2008 1:48 am ET

Once again BO supporters feel insulted with this., as he felt insulted with the turban picture….why?, It was him, it was just a visit. right? He clearly did not want to talk about it, as much as he did not want to talk about the Farrakhan support. He wants to escape any issue that is tricky delicate and questions his patriotism and integrity. Anyone who may ask a question about this, inmediately is label a racist.. He feels uncomfortable with these themes and shows vacilation in answering the question. I am glad Senator Clinton got him to be more specific in HIS REJECTION (not denounciation….not strong enough….anyone should know this….DA), albeit he looked pathetically weak and apologetic saying it.

JOHN   February 27th, 2008 1:46 am ET

DELUSIONAL OBAMA FANS.LET GO OF YOUR IDEOLOGY OF STUPIDITY. OUR NEXT PRESIDENT IS A VOICE OF TERROSISM AND GEORGE BUSH WAS RIGHT IN BEING TOUGH ON TERROR AND TAX RELIEF. AS A DEMOCRAT OUR ECONOMY IS IMPORTANT BUT SO IS OUR CHRISTIAN HERITAGE. MR OBAMA DOES NOT STAND FOR ANY THING BUT UNITY AT ALL COST. DOES ANY BODY REMEMBER APPEASEMANT IN THE 30′S FROM HISTORY.REMEMBER TO CALL YOUR SELF A LOSER IN THE WAR ON TERROR BECAUSE MR OBAMA
IS GIVING THE VICTORY TO TERROR BY APPEASEMENT. do you really think that barack should be ashame of his middle name. mr obama should stand up to terror and denouce terror.a democrat who got it wrong.remember barack says he is a christian but the radicals in the mideast what all of us under their dominion.which way Mr Obama? you can not have it both ways?

Andy, New York, New York   February 27th, 2008 1:45 am ET

To come across as Miss Goody Two Shoes, Hillary inserted herself in the answer session to the question posed to Obama on Farrakhan. Russert didn't ask her anything, yet she wanted to hog the glory by telling us about her own experience with some anti-semitic group in New York. Who cares?

The woman left the White House in 2000 and headed straight to New York, at the suggesstion of Rep. Charlie Rangel, so she could contest for Daniel Patrick Moynihan's seat on her way back to the White House. She used us New Yorkers just like she was going to use Americans.

But Americans said NO, they want change and so the sea change is coming from waves created by BaROCK of Gibraltar!

Come back to New York, Hillary, and let Rangel, Bill, Chelsea and all those who voted for you help you heal from the deeps wounds you received in this fight. After you're healed, pack your bags and return under that little rock in Noah's ARKansas!

Kevin   February 27th, 2008 1:44 am ET

No one has been more polarizing than Obama. He has polarized blacks to vote for him. His wife has asked for black unity in her thesis. Wake up America!

MARC   February 27th, 2008 1:44 am ET

I think senator Clinton misunderstood the difference between reject and denounce. to reject = to refuse to accept : to denounce= to condemn or censure openly or publicly. I guess senator Clinton needs to have an english dictionary when debating with senator Obama if she is going to put so much emphasis on definition.

Kyle   February 27th, 2008 1:44 am ET

The American voters are renouncing, denouncing and trouncing Hillary. She will soon be rejected, ejected and dejected.

Bernice   February 27th, 2008 1:42 am ET

Hillary had a George Bush moment. That question was directed at Obama If only she had kept her mouth shut, but no she had to jump in there trying to say something intelligent, only to make herself look "PLAIN OLE DUMB"

That's what happens when you confuse a smart mouth and controlling attitude for being a strong woman or man She needs to settle down, THAT MOUTH IS TOO MUCH! SOMETHING YOU WANT TO SWAT AT TO MAKE IT GO AWAAAY!!!!

Beth Anne   February 27th, 2008 1:38 am ET

Obama prove tonight to be weak . Hillary ran circles around him. All he could do is agree with everything Hillary has to say. Im not voting for obama because he is just an empty suit. Whats going do, call up Oprah at 4 in morning what to do when we are attacked by the middle east… Obama has nothing important to say, all he ever says is " yes we can " and news flash for obama and his naive supporters, obama cant make the heavens open and he dont have a magic stick…lol.. good night and peace out…

aware   February 27th, 2008 1:37 am ET

I am a Pasor's wife and a student of theology, and I will not support Barack. He is calling people to idolatry by claiming to be able to do what only God can do – transform the hearts of people. Shame on you Barack! :(

Nijma   February 27th, 2008 1:36 am ET

Ron Paul has been roundly criticized for being supported by white supremacists, and rightly so.

Obama needs stop acting so flattered that someone like Farrakhan would endorse him–to have someone like that saying nice things about you is Not A Good Thing.

Concerned Christian In Bible Belt   February 27th, 2008 1:35 am ET

CNN you are so DISGUSTINGLY BIASED. You won't print anything hardly that is not anti-Hillary and pro-Obama. As a life long Democrat I used to respect your news agency, but it has become pathetic! SHAME ON YOU!!!!

Stacy Mack   February 27th, 2008 1:35 am ET

Hill you are washed!! Come On March 4! Obama will win!

Carol   February 27th, 2008 1:35 am ET

The Bible states The Anti-Christ will fool everyone,including the media! Oh,how the media LOVES Obama!

J. Williams   February 27th, 2008 1:35 am ET

Is it possible to denounce something *without* rejecting it?

Let me crack open a dictionary…

Denounce – To condemn openly as being evil or reprehensible.
Condemn – To express strong disapproval of
Disapprove – To refuse to approve; reject

(The answer to the question, no, its not possible.)

Pointless attempt at undercutting. Thanks, Hillary.

Jessica F   February 27th, 2008 1:34 am ET

I think tonight people of texas and Ohio can see clear why they need to choose Hillary. Ohio and Texas you remember Sunday: Obama on his speech slam Hillary about Nafta, in the debate Tim Russert told him severals times he has his record on Nafta and he wanted to create more trade like. can we trust Obama? i do not think so. If they search Obama deeper they will find out the repuiblican will retain the white house. Therefore the republican vote for him and expect to chrash him down in the general election. He sign a pledge about public finance for the general election, now he tends to change it. Texan we just can not trust this guy.
Everything he mention Irak to score point on Hillary make him weaker against John Mccain. At that point I would rather go with Hillary. His pplan for Health care is not good at all
This guy would be a disaster.

Giacomo   February 27th, 2008 1:33 am ET

@Brad: It's not shameless when there's clearly substance there. obama wants to have his cake and eat it too. Sorry, buddy, but you can't be on everybody's side all the time. You need to make some tough choices in life, and you can't please everybody, all the time. So you choose: do you support israel & jews in america unconditionally (well deserved), or do you teeter the line of alienating black voters by outright rejecting Farrakhan's anti-semitic remarks? Can't have it both ways, and when you hem and haw and can't give a straight answer, we have to wonder why.

Dan Tuttle   February 27th, 2008 1:33 am ET

It looks like Hillary is trying to make something out of nothing. It comes off as desperation. Focus on the bigger issues please!

Brian   February 27th, 2008 1:32 am ET

I am one of those person who would rather have Hillary as President,
But..

It seems that Barack will eventually become the President, which is fine..

It would be swimmingly better if HIlllary is at least VP, which might sounds ridiculous to many, of course would prefer Hillary/Obama, rather. but with 3 reasons it might be too late for that.

1. Extreme Media Bias from MSNBC and some CNN. If there is ANYTHING that comes NOT ATTACK but even "Criticizes" Barack, everyone just clumps around that story and do anything to defend Barack. Anything Hillary does is "negative" or "it doesn't work"… maybe people of this country "again" let media control their precious decision to pick the next President (I know it's ridiculous that I am writing on this, but hey I need people to know this)
2. George Bush: Because of his seriously talented ability to screw up many many things, now experiences you get from being anywhere near capital hill is somehow "old politics" So people just don't care about issues anymore, they just really want to hear the optimism, which I find it reasonable but somewhat concerns me that later people will regret… hope not tho…
3. Let's be honest, even tho I would prefer Hillary, Barack has amazing ability to persuade folks with great ability to make people enthused. Maybe in "this" election, that's what really people want, and most of people would buy that. This relates to George Bush, because if the preceding president was somewhat successful like Bill, no campaign like this would be successful. No one even tries to at least find out who real "Barack" is and sometimes it worries me.

BUT… I hope for the best that this country will really be "different".

Whatever happens folks, let's not forget this is not about Barack, Hillary or John M….it is about this great country of America that can again be the country of hopes and dreams, not in rhetorical way, but in truthful way that seriously with no more credit card debts, no more concerns about how to pay for your children's college, no more the system where "haves" and "have-nots" can come together, and where poor folks can go to college and become Drs and be successful…

I really prey that it's not just hope and dreams, but something that will happen and that can be fulfilled…

Mark Redd   February 27th, 2008 1:32 am ET

Hillary lacks sincerity and her points seem petty and inconsiquential. When it comes down to it, they are very close on policy so it really comes down to who would make the best leader and communicator.

Jeff   February 27th, 2008 1:31 am ET

For those who think Hillary's experience is the reason she should be president, what happens when you replace Obama with McCain? Suddenly, Hillary's "experience" evaporates when compared to 25+ years of service in the government and 20+ years of service in the military. Hillary's message of experience will not hold up in the general election.

Obama is the anti-McCain. He invigorates the young voters (key for any Democratic victory). He has bold plans for energy independence, health care, and for maintaining the U.S.'s top spot in technology and innovation. On the international stage, he would immediately change the world's perception of the U.S.. Hillary or McCain as president is like Cuba "changing" leadership to Fidel's brother. It's a rehash of the same people.

It amazes me how many old Democrats are desperately clinging to the 1990's when we have one the best candidates to come along in generations that can help the country move in the right direction for the future.

Don't screw this up America.

Rachel, Nashviile TN   February 27th, 2008 1:31 am ET

She really tried to push the fear-mongering on this non-issue. Did he "denounce" or "reject"? In essence, what she is trying to persuade to the American people is… does he favor radical Islam or not? This is gutter politics at it's worst. Yet, Obama has again taken the high road and put "rhetoric" to rest by saying he both denounces and rejects Farrakhan's support. I guess words really do matter.

Giacomo   February 27th, 2008 1:30 am ET

@Molly: the point is, he was doing a dance around the question. If there's no issue, just say "Yes, I REJECT his support." period. Why did Obama the windbag have to ramble on and come up with slick definitions of what is denouncing, rejecting, blah blah blah? Just say you reject it and move on.

I'll tell you why — it's because he's afraid of being tied to his race, of being tied to characters like farrakhan, yet still wants to seem like he's on their side, got their support. Shame on Obama for denying his people,and for thinking that race doesn't matter. What country does HE live in?

chicagoloyola   February 27th, 2008 1:30 am ET

give me a break CNN…..talk about a major bias! All the complaining about MSNBC from the Clinton camp, but it becomes more and more obvious just how pro-Hillary CNN is.

Agora phila   February 27th, 2008 1:29 am ET

Obama did good .TeXas and Ohio are for him.
Sorry Clinton , We only need one person to win.I hope next time it will be you but now is Obama.

Jeff   February 27th, 2008 1:29 am ET

So sad Hillary, you had to reject & denounce anti-semitic supporters in NY? That was definitely a controversial decision you had to make. There are so many more anti-Semites in NY that Jews. I'm surprised you came out of that campaign as the victor, you must of really had to convince the millions of racists and bigots in Manhattan that you were still a viable candidate.

James in Oregon   February 27th, 2008 1:29 am ET

SHE is done .

Molly   February 27th, 2008 1:28 am ET

Farrakan supported Bill Clinton in his run for a second term. Anyone remember the million man march. Hillary nor Bill rejected Farrakan. I believe if Farrakan offered to support Hillary now she would jump for joy. That's how bad she wants to win. She would throw all that reteric out the window fast . Shame on you Hillary!

Lia   February 27th, 2008 1:28 am ET

Hillary's foreign policies need to be re-evaluated. She completly disrespected the new president of Russia and the Russian people. This is a huge indication of her unprofessionalism and lack of political experience. Her utter disregard for other nationals by saying "Whatever" when attempting to pronounce the President of another country's name should tell the American people that we will be in a lot of trouble if she is elected. Forget about Farakhan he is a non-issue, our president should at least know how to address the leader of a foreign nation.

angie   February 27th, 2008 1:27 am ET

do is right — Obama missed Hillary's point (and it seems most posters here did too). If Obama "rejects and denounces" the Nation of Islam, then he should not have been quoting Malcolm X when he was down in South Carolina. See it for yourself: youtube "There Will Be Bamboozling"

Giacomo   February 27th, 2008 1:27 am ET

@ Shannon from charlottesville: how about her superior command of domestic & foregin policy? Her poise in discussions and debates? Because it seems the best that Obama can muster in every one of those situations is a stumbling "uhhh, yeah…what SHE said!" No wonder she's furious that she's always asked the first question! Obama not only gets to get the final word, but he gets to copy her answer in the process! Unbelievable!

Charlie, Philadelphia, PA   February 27th, 2008 1:26 am ET

I'm voting for Obama, so I am biased right out of the gates.

I think although Hillary had her moments (like everyone does in a debate), she looked very desparate tonight having to always try to get the last word in and this was the best example of my point when she said this.

Early in the debate before the first break it even looked like both moderators were annoyed by this tactic of hers.

I think Obama comes out looking even better being the more cool, calm and collected of the 2 candidates tonight

Tony, nm   February 27th, 2008 1:26 am ET

"Ready on Day One?" —what about TONIGHT!

I prefer the here-and-now over yesterday or tomorrow…..
Barack Obama is READY!

let's get real.
vote Obama

tony   February 27th, 2008 1:26 am ET

Just a play on words. The fact of the matter is that Obama stands for change and injecting some semblance of unity in gridlock DC. That's why he is winning; that's why the young,independents, republicans etc are voting for him. There is a saying "Bruno is a good dog but hold fast is the best" Hillary is Bruno and Barack is hold fast. All the good ideas will amount to nothing without a change in attitude and unity in DC. Get rid of the special interest and lobbyists…they are strangling progress….too many are beholden to them. That's why Obama is the idea whose time has come.

beverly   February 27th, 2008 1:25 am ET

hillary, hillary. you just lost my vote to mr. president obama. even if he loses, i will not vote for you. what point did you make by attempting to correct him over his rejection of racism? lost, vote hillary

Nathan   February 27th, 2008 1:24 am ET

In video, this exchange is much more ridiculous than this blurb would suggest. Clinton made a very bad attempt at a political jab in suggesting that Obama hadn't done enough to distance himself from Farrakhan's remarks, when in fact he'd clearly done so for the previous four minutes. The fact that she'd argue over which word is stronger when both in fact synonymous makes her seem desperate

Jeremy   February 27th, 2008 1:24 am ET

The more I think about Sen. Clinton was suggesting with this little semantic game, the more I am COMPLETELY DISGUSTED. How low can she sink?!!!!! Just think about what she's suggesting!!! It's putrid.

kristin, in DC   February 27th, 2008 1:23 am ET

Liberal bias…amazing. Glad the media was called out finally on his cakewalk up until now.
Come on Texas and Ohio…get rid of HIM.

Moira, NV   February 27th, 2008 1:23 am ET

I reject and denounce Hillary for being a phony politician who is power hungry and completely obsessed with herself. You were not presidential tonight, just whiny and irritating.

O/08

Anonymous   February 27th, 2008 1:23 am ET

hillary, hillary.. i just love mr. president obama… you just lost my vote if president obama did not get the nod…

SAM   February 27th, 2008 1:22 am ET

Hillary Clinton,,,,, next election try to run as an independent. YOU are not sound like DEMOCRAT.
GO BARACK OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jarrett   February 27th, 2008 1:22 am ET

He say potato, she say potahto. Obviously, Clinton tried to infer that Obama is an anti-Semite, and her schoolyard attempt backfired. Congrats to Senator Obama for demonstrating the kind of cool reserve and graceful response we need from a commander in chief

Tony   February 27th, 2008 1:22 am ET

This debate sealed the notion that Hillary is finished.

Eric Tutu   February 27th, 2008 1:22 am ET

I think that was unfair question to ask if he he should reject his support. Luis leads thousands of Islam Americans who will be
voting coming November. While Farrakhan made some insensitive
remarks it is important to note that he does not represent the views of
those he leads though his support for Barack my be influential; denouncing/rejecting his support would negate his campaign efforts.

Hal   February 27th, 2008 1:21 am ET

Annamica you need to actually understand how to use a dictionary. To reject implies that someone has made a proposition or offer to you. To "renonce" means that you once held those beliefs. To "denounce" is correct it means that one never held those opinions or was never aligned with those actions and finds them reprehensible.

When someone makes a statement you can incorrectly use the term reject. But what you mean is you denounce it.

PMI   February 27th, 2008 1:20 am ET

Hillary, We the people reject and denounce your horrible behaviour tonight and on the campaign trail.

David   February 27th, 2008 1:20 am ET

Hillary is silly. She either believes we don't realize that, which is insulting; or she knows we realize that and dwells in trifles nonetheless, which is cynical and doubly insulting.

Tonya for Obama   February 27th, 2008 1:20 am ET

I reject and denouce Hillary's bullish attitude. Big bully. Go find someone else to pick on.

La Raza   February 27th, 2008 1:20 am ET

Hillary has been crazy from day one!

pearl   February 27th, 2008 1:20 am ET

I JUST SEE HES FACE AND I WANNA THROW UP…

Adam   February 27th, 2008 1:19 am ET

Is it possible that supporters can extol the virtues of their candidate of choice without resorting to petty insults and regugitating the talking points? Something to consider; if you feel that you don't have enough information about a candidate, step away from your blog rant and do the research. There is plenty of information out there, and much of it factual, about every candidate running for president. Your apathy toward being an informed voter does not determine the sustance of a candidate's positions. Vote for who you want, but this is not American Idol. These are serious people who, whether you agree with them or not, are doing what they believe to be in the best interests of the United States of America, a lofty goal if there ever was one. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but if yours is childish name calling and uninformed venom, don't look so shocked when you get marginalized.

T Mitchell   February 27th, 2008 1:19 am ET

Hillary is sooooo desperate. She looks petty and not at all presidential.

independent   February 27th, 2008 1:18 am ET

i'm really glad she made this point. this is her experience shining through.

Giacomo   February 27th, 2008 1:18 am ET

@ Alice, Tami & Kevin: bottom line: Obama choked. That was his mistake to make, and he made it. Should have just said "I reject his support." Period. Instead of dancing around race issues like landmines, he should have just been clear on where he stood, and rejected the support of a blatant anti-semite.

SF., CA   February 27th, 2008 1:17 am ET

Good for you, Hillary! I'm happy you pressured this coward to take a stand on an issue!

Elinda   February 27th, 2008 1:17 am ET

Shannon – this is so wrong: tonight's debate made one thing clear: clinton represents politics as usual, something we're all sick of, and obama, a new style of politics, where we come together on common causes rather than dividing on intolerances.

…. read the blogs on CNN, FOX, ABC, CBS, MSNBC .. .com … and you will see some very angry OBAMA supporters hatemongering Clinton … do you really think these people are ready to "come together" with people who don't agree with them … I don't think so.

…. Hillary '08 … all the way for the USA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ed   February 27th, 2008 1:17 am ET

it was very immature of hillary to even bring up the Farrakhan support of Barack. Hillary didn't reject Ann Coulter's support, did she? Ann Coulter is pretty blatantly racist.

Anon   February 27th, 2008 1:17 am ET

The fact is, Obama ignored totally removing himself from that support. It only continues to show how much of a wet noodle he is and a politican. Hillary, as much as I don't like her politics, is strong and can make a decision. Barack either committes it to death, ignores the comment, or decides to please everyone "I reject and denounce him then." Sounds much like the Clinton everyone hated in the days of yore huh?

He should have just rejected his support in the first place, "I simply do not want the support of an outspoken antisemite." Done.

OBAMA 08   February 27th, 2008 1:17 am ET

I DENOUNCE AND REJECT ANYONE THAT WOULD PLAY THE RACE
CARD AS HILLARY DID TONIGHT.

N Garner, MA   February 27th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Hillary seemed as if she was 10 years old to insist that Barack say he would reject instead of denounce Farrakhan. Grow up, grow up, grow up. What a baby, how soon can she pack her bags.

I'm so over you lady–go home.

Giacomo   February 27th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Oooh – sorry, but it's an important debate question, here. Why is Obama having such a hard time relating to issues of race? He's stuck in a hard place here, his race and identity causing issues of conflict, and nobody thinks that's important?

his minister & farrakhan are blatant anti-semites — the person responsible for his spiritual leadership supports an anti-semite, and that's not news? the hell it's not. And what's worse is that it took coaxing and wheedling to just give a simple answer? Why was it so hard to just say "I reject Louis Farrakhan's support?" Clinton had to teach him why it was important, while he tried to do his usual dance around the race issue. So silly, Obama. Just give a straight answer, please.

Matt, Canoga Park   February 27th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Reject, Denounce. All the Clintons seem to do is split hairs on symantics. And they wonder why they come across as pompous and arrogant. It's because they are.

People do like the person they can hang out with and inspires them not the person they hang out with that condiscends them all the time.

Teach this fool a lesson Ohio and Texas.

NONSENSE   February 27th, 2008 1:15 am ET

Hillary was right in pointing out the obvious of Barack Obama himself playing old politics. He doesnt want to offend the African Americans yet he still supports the pastor who gave Farhakan an award for greatness. If he really was truthful in seperating himself from all that anti-semitism he should seperate himself (like Hillary tried to point out ) not only from the subject but anyone who encourages that kind of behavior including from the pastor who gave an award to Farhakan for "greatness". Wake up people! We dont need no false control.

Paul from Kissimmee   February 27th, 2008 1:15 am ET

I didn't see the debate. By reading this article, it looked like Obama was trying not to make Farrakhan and his followers mad. I really want to see it for myself because I do know how the media can spin things.

AJ   February 27th, 2008 1:14 am ET

CNN you really need to take this off. You know Hillary did not slam Obama on this topic. Stop trying to incite something that really didn't happen. This is really the Clinton News Network.

Barrington of Cambridge   February 27th, 2008 1:14 am ET

Hillary Clinton is DONE! One question though, who was advising her? She was sour, pathetic, pushy and just plain unlikeable.

Theresa, Mississippi   February 27th, 2008 1:14 am ET

They just put this on here cause they've caught so much flack about SNL pointing out their cheerleading of Obama, which hasn't stopped, they're just throwing a bone to try to keep viewers. I get so sick of the bias toward Obama, by CNN and MSNBC that I have been reduced to changing over to Fox for a couple of minutes because they don't even hate Hillary as much as this crowd. Then I have to shower. I like Obama, but the bias at CNN and MSNBC would have to be breaking some kind of rule, if they were real news instead of just political entertainment.

khalill muhammad   February 27th, 2008 1:13 am ET

Why is Hillary so concerned about The Honorable Minister Farrakan.He has the right to support who ever he wants and that is his perogative

tom   February 27th, 2008 1:13 am ET

Tim do you denounce your grandparents and their parents who probable owned slaves? may have been kkk members or friends with them? did you reject all the opportunity's that are afforded to you because your white? lets knock it off already. between that and Clinton's comments get serious please

Electress   February 27th, 2008 1:13 am ET

Again Hillary wins. Did you hear Obama tonight? For the first time
he said it is going to take more than HOPE! I see after he's on
the big wave, it's not about hope people!

Hillary handled the Putin question with detailed accuracy (other than
properly pronouncing his name), and I just wish they would have
let her responded to the Kosovo question.

I am sick and tired of the male anchors, who refer to this debate
by comparing it to a field goal, football, reeling in the big marlin,
the sinking boat, & boxing gloves. You think they will ever use terms
like, simmer, grill, steam, thicken, stir, roast, glaze, or stir?

Ingrid   February 27th, 2008 1:12 am ET

CNN-We are all AMERICANS, including Louis Farrakhan, and we all have a right to the freedom of speech. PLEASE, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Enough already, this debate is suppose to be about the issues, right? Your candidate (clinton) got blasted on NAFTA, which is one the MAIN issues. Why is your headline not related to that???? What about her vote for the war that she wants to "take back"… Let's get real CNN.

Antonio   February 27th, 2008 1:12 am ET

I've been watching the debates and the democratic race for Presidential nomination very closely. I believe Sen. Obama would be a President that would unite citizens from every background. He has said on several occasions that he running to be a President for all citezens, Not just African-American. We need to focus on the issues that Americans hold at the heart of their concerns instead of trying tear a person down with politcal and media ploys. If Sen. Obama is not elected President from the three canidates we have lefg to choose from, we will make the huges mistake in modern history.

Darth Vadik, CA   February 27th, 2008 1:12 am ET

As an Obama supporter I am ready for another 8 months of wacos trying to tie Obama to Louis Farrakhan.

Another 8 months of wacos trying to say Obama is a muslim, which for the love of God I don't know why being a muslim is bad to begin with. We have christian wacos who blow up buildings, set their compunds on fire killing everybody, and women cutting off their babies arms and legs with christian hymns blazing in the background, here in the free US of A.

It is not religions that are bad, it is some people within those religions who give a black eye to the rest.

So why somebodies religion is at question, whether it be Obama, or Romney, or Huckabee, I trully don't know.

It is not one's religion that worries me, it is their character.

RG   February 27th, 2008 1:12 am ET

This is one of the most ridculous primaries one has seen. In the 2000 and '04, George W was annointed by the media. And look what we wound up with.

The media is again putting Obama on a pedestal and basically he walks on water and can do no wrong.

I really don't care if either are elected president -but the primaries and the rigors of an American election means that the candidates are completely vetted out. Hillary Clinton seems to be always getting a raw deal and poor old Obama is being treated with kid gloves!!

Media! Where is your sense of balance and fair play?

SAM   February 27th, 2008 1:11 am ET

I think President Obama should be applauded for his response on this issue. Although, like he said.. he cannot stop someone from thinking he's a good guy.. which he is by the way, he will for the general good reject and denounce a figure like Farrakhan.

shane   February 27th, 2008 1:10 am ET

Hillary is crazy look at the words definiitions Obama was right to choose the word he choose! Hillary clearly lost the debate with stupidity like this word games and SNL referances she looked like a lossing contestent on Donald Trumps "The Apprentice" Hillary your fired. Obama looked like a President…. Obama your Hired ! ! ! !

Definition: denounce

1. criticize something publicly: to criticize or condemn something publicly and harshly

2. charge somebody with wrongdoing: to accuse somebody publicly of something such as disloyalty, or inform against somebody

3. to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil

Definition: reject

1. not accept something: to refuse to accept, agree to, believe in, or make use of something, e.g. because it is not good enough or not the right thing

2. turn somebody down: to decide not to give somebody something asked or applied for such as a job or membership of an organization

3. be unkind to somebody: to behave in an unkind and unfriendly way toward somebody who expects or has a right to expect love, kindness, and friendship

Obamas word was more than Appropriate. CNN please make this clear to the world!

Dan   February 27th, 2008 1:10 am ET

The Catholic Church has a long history of anti-Semitism and anti-Judaism. If the Pope "made positive statements" about a candidate, would there be this demand for "rejection"?

TEH   February 27th, 2008 1:09 am ET

The nation of Islam has their own way in their belief and much has nothing to do with the true practice of Islam.

We know that they were blamed for the death of Malcom X when he discovered the real Ismal after his Mecca and Egypt trip and came back saying that white people are not evil.

Please don't mix the cards and get the 1.5 billion muslims accused of antisemitism

ILLINOIS RESIDENT   February 27th, 2008 1:09 am ET

Sunday Feb, 24, 2008 the University of Illinois held a memorial service for the students killed last week during a college shooting spree. I ask you was the Senator from Illinois present? Answer is NO, he was too busy trying to back up his mis-representaions of fliers he sent out! What a guy…vote Hillary08

Adam, Los Angeles   February 27th, 2008 1:08 am ET

Forget about the "kitchen sink strategy"…. Hillary starting to dig up the plumbing!!!!

Mario   February 27th, 2008 1:07 am ET

This is the best CNN can come up with in the whole debate? It should be mentioned Ann Coulter supports and encouraged support for Clinton, and Couldter has said some pretty awful things. Come on CNN, honestly where did the journalism go? CNN has turned into Fox Noise

Ingrid   February 27th, 2008 1:07 am ET

Exactly what debate were you watching tonight? Obviously, not the one on MSNBC. CNN-give it up, the ship is sinking. Senator Obama is clearly the winner of this debate and the Democratic nomination-the American people are screaming at the top of their lungs already!

Kenny   February 27th, 2008 1:07 am ET

I agree with Brad on this one. Senator Obama's response was spot on.Those of us that actually watched the debate know that this point in the debate made Senator Clinton look foolish, and the crowd actually chuckled with Obama following his response. He obviously didn't agree with Farrakhan, and Clinton interjected (when she was not asked a question) and unnecessarily quibbled about semantics. This kind of headline shows perhaps a desperation on the attempt of the editor to make it seem like Clinton scored points with this asinine attempt to call out Obama, but clearly this was not the case.

Barbara   February 27th, 2008 1:06 am ET

I was unable to see the debate today But from what I just read, after a lot of double talk, Obama finally got around to an answer. He denounced and rejected the endorsement.

Adran   February 27th, 2008 1:05 am ET

Denounce and reject. Yes.

But it was his moment of pause that created this headline in the first place.

LT   February 27th, 2008 1:05 am ET

Also, please stop thinking that Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton represent black people. Most black people I know couldn't care less about what Farrakan, Jackson, or Sharpton have to say.

Matt   February 27th, 2008 1:05 am ET

Getting prettaaayyy pretttayyyy prettayyy deperate Senator Pantsuit

Dennis   February 27th, 2008 1:04 am ET

Hillary came out of this looking more experienced. But at this point it's easy to see why this is so close. Either one will do a Great job. Now everyone get control of yourself and quit acting like your voting for American Idol.

Andrew   February 27th, 2008 1:04 am ET

Hey CNN, I don't get your headline. You make it seem as if Obama said positive things about Farrakhan. I, for one, did not see the debate, so your headline was all I had to go on before I read the article. Seems to me you should be more responsible in your choice of words.

Lance Newell   February 27th, 2008 1:02 am ET

How bout we let the jews be the jews and get the heck out of our politics.Thats what this is really about,they want to and have controlled our media and politics long enough.
Look carefully at who is the majority owner of print media in the US and you will see I am correct.
Let the Jewish people take care of there country,they are the strongest country militarily in the middle east.
Let us take care of the US.
And no,I do not car a bit about Farrakhans beliefs,or his religion.

Helen Strickland   February 27th, 2008 1:02 am ET

I really do not think Sen. Obama was sincere in his rejection of Minister Farrakhan's statements. He seemed very uncomfortable when he was pressed to do so. Does this raise a red flag to his relations to Mr. Farrakhan's principles?

Brandi   February 27th, 2008 1:01 am ET

Semantics….she came across as nitpicky and ridiculous. I'm sick to death of Hiliary's changing personality and whining about how unfair the media and everyone is being to her. Suck it up. She said she wanted to have a SERIOUS debate about the issues, but she's the first person to start complaining about who gets a question asked first. She's losing this election on her own.

Obama '08

LT   February 27th, 2008 1:01 am ET

First of all, Farrakan does not represent black people, so it is rediculous to suggest that Barack was "afraid of alienating black people". Secondly, last time I checked, this was still the United States of America. Farrakan has the right to support whom ever he wishes to and so do we all. Barack would be unwise to react to this either way. The key here is that Farrakhan did not offer to provide security to Barack from the nation of islam, that I know of, nor did he make any other offering, so what is there to reject? The man has a right to support whom ever he wishes! Barack handled this very well.

Texasboo   February 27th, 2008 1:01 am ET

Denouncement is rejection. WOW, another desperate move from an increasingly unpresidential candidate.

Once again, grasping at straws. Way to go Sen. Obama! You are looking very presidential every days with not addressing folishness and pettiness. Professionalism and good demeanor are great ways to show the world that you are levelheaded. No insignifacant whining and compaling about things that don't matter.

TEXAS FOR OBAMA.

Raul of Texas   February 27th, 2008 1:00 am ET

Getting Obama to reject Farrakan's brand of anti-semitism is like pulling teeth out of a tiger. Why was it so dificult to have him say that he rejects Farrakan's support, which is what he should have done, instead of trying to be cute by saying things like: "I can't tell him not to say that I'm a good guy…" Okay, the guy who wants to change Washington by saying no to special interests needs special prodding to reject a character like Farrakan? Are you sure our hopes are not misplaced in this election?

chester   February 27th, 2008 1:00 am ET

that was a gottcha question to make barack into the black candidate…shame on cnn for not posing the same racial questions that plague America to hHillary. The should have asked her what she thought about the lynching remarks to baracks wife in do fairness. Or maybe white guilt did not want to see that answered

Richard from Detroit and Dearborn   February 27th, 2008 1:00 am ET

That was Bill Cunningham Rozanne.It was on CNN,FOX,CBS,NBC all day today,don,t you have a TV at your house.Farrakhan is small potatoes concerning Obama,Whats Up!!!! with Obama,s connection with Mr Odinga and with Mr Odinga,s connection with ,{ guess who},should be specifically talked about and introduced to the public so everybody can get a better picture on WHO this man really is.

mike   February 27th, 2008 12:59 am ET

Clinton fatigue will soon be remedied.

ted   February 27th, 2008 12:58 am ET

denounce

1: to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil
This is the definition in webster.

Barbara-California   February 27th, 2008 12:57 am ET

If anyone here thinks that Barack Obama is going to "buy into Hillarys agenda" you had better think twice; he may agree with her regarding Farrakhan, but he will not risk censure by saying anything against that man; he may after he gets the nomination, but I doubt it.

He is first committed to guide the government and represent all peoples in the United States; that does not mean he agrees with all of them and how they feel. It simply means that he knows what the job of being President entails.

He is by far the best candidate for the office.

violet   February 27th, 2008 12:56 am ET

Feeling touchy, Obamamites? Just wait.

This issue is going to get much worse during the fight with McCain.

Dan   February 27th, 2008 12:56 am ET

Two points:
1) Hillary said "We cannot let anyone in any way say these things…." Whether you agree or disagree with any ignorant comments or opinions, you must admit that we a 1st Amendment right to say whatever we want. Hillary's statement seems to forget that.
2) Hillary said (paraphrasing here) that because she'd be a woman president there'd be a "sea change" and a different philosophical approach….
If Barack had said the same thing about being a black president he would have been blasted for playing the race card. Why is it okay to throw her gender around for special consideration and rally other women to her cause, but he has to potentially alienate a host of black voters by "rejecting" their religious leader when he never even asked for the endorsement?

Donah LPdGC   February 27th, 2008 12:55 am ET

It does seem to me that America does not have to go to the polls for selecting a New # 44 or 45 or whatever number President. We already have 98.99% of total America as sitting Presidents….. We don't need a seperate White House…. it's Hillary's House anyway… so let her go back and clear out Bush's Trash. And let Hillary be the New Commander in Chief (she's endorsed by our most senior Generals anyway)…. Now who is anyone to argue with the America's Defending Generals…. I haven't heard Colin Powel endorsing NO'BROMA and that for me is a good sign … Donah////

Jay   February 27th, 2008 12:55 am ET

I think questions like this stray from the issues and serve no purpose. Farrakhan is insignificant and bring him up at such an important date is un-called for. I was hoping the candidates can touch on other subjects like Darfur, the Beijing Olympics, and the US missile defense system.

Hussein Shiek   February 27th, 2008 12:55 am ET

Obama's refusal to reject the endorsement was quite telling. Why would he hesitate?

Alice Rea   February 27th, 2008 12:54 am ET

I have been praying that we are able to investigate ALL candidates so we know who would be our President.

I thank God for his addressing this issue.

We really need to see all information pertaining to any radical group related in any way to one of our candidates.

To NOT investigate everything about candidates would be a big mistake for the Ameican people.

JFoster   February 27th, 2008 12:53 am ET

Y'know… from a linguistic standpoint "denouncing" is in this case a more accurate term the "rejecting". But overall it was the lowest part of a long list of lowbrow attempted "gotcha" moments.

issie   February 27th, 2008 12:53 am ET

Hillary kept stating she is a fighter. It is ok to be a fighter, but make sound judgement while you are fighting. Hillary came out looking for a fight and that is why it is important that Obama get this nomination to because with Hillary, there is not much going to be accomplished if she presents/gets hot in situations, this is not going to help the American people. I commend her for her experience, but experience alone is not going to get the job done as President if you can't unit both parties and the Amerian people. She definitely has a way with words and with her wordiness it will be politics as usual. She will thrill on the power and not make sound decisions. She is trickery.

Dalmo   February 27th, 2008 12:52 am ET

Hello USA!!!!

I did watch the debate: Obama won Hillary.
Oh my God! Who is realy Hillary?
Hillary attacked Obama all time during the week and when debated with him front cameras she would seem an angel.

hugs from Brazil

California   February 27th, 2008 12:52 am ET

Obama should have publically rejected Farrakan's endorsement. What Hillary was trying to explain is that even if there is a risk to your political career, you should never take the endorsement of someone who is dangerous to society. Likewise, had David Duke endorsed Hillary, she should reject him. There is no room in this country for those who spew hatred and calling someone out for their beliefs. I like to think we have made some progress. Obama still has a relationship with the Rev. Wright who also went to Libya with Farrakan to visit Kadafi. If you want to be president, you have to use good judgement in who you are closely affiliated with. You have to be president for all people.

Chris -- Cleveland   February 27th, 2008 12:51 am ET

She looked petty trying to "nail" him on that when his answer was completely clear. She had no reason to even offer a counterpoint.

Esp from someone who said she "regretted" if her husband racially offended anyone with his campaign comments in South Carolina. That's a real great non-apology, there.

Terry Head, Texas   February 27th, 2008 12:51 am ET

Sen. Obama is right. On the point of the Iraq war, he said that it is not an issue of who got the bus out of the ditch, but an issue of who drove the bus in the ditch in the first place. Way to go Sen. Obama!

Murry   February 27th, 2008 12:51 am ET

Hillary's hostile approach shows why she makes enemies whereever she goes. Obama already said he did not seek and does not want Farrakhan's support.

Barbara Shafer   February 27th, 2008 12:51 am ET

If I had to choose someone to represent me in an negotiation, it would
be Senator Obama, because he is composed under pressure and expresses himself in a calm and rational way. This is a winning combination.

Mike   February 27th, 2008 12:50 am ET

I thought this was funny. Was it just me or did it seem like Clinton was just attacking Obama at whatever chance she could get? Did anyone else notice that the question didn't involve her in anyway?

Andrea   February 27th, 2008 12:50 am ET

Obama is the media darling. How dare one of his supporters actually complain about CNN actually covering something newsworthy for once! Grow a pair! If he is strong enough to be president, he is strong enough to take some challenging criticism.

Independent minded   February 27th, 2008 12:49 am ET

We know that the "Golden Child" Obama never does any wrong. The news media failed us when they didn't ask more questions from Bush in leading upto the Iraq War. The news media is now failing the American people again by not asking the tough questions about Barack. I can't believe the one-sided news media did not learn from this dreadful Iraq war to be more objective and do their jobs. Asking the tough questions is a good thing for the country. I think they need to ask the tough questions about every major issue facing this country. what ever happened about fair and balanced reporting?

marie   February 27th, 2008 12:49 am ET

tonight's debate reiterated a desperate mrs. clinton. much of her remarks and responses didn't make sense or are very hesitant. she often came across desperate and self-contradictory, going around the bush with a few questions (i.e. the tax return question). plus, her obama-bashing attempts just backfired. sometimes, her being a "fighter" goes a little too far, almost arrogant.

obama presented himself very well tonight. he was far more comfortable than he seemed in texas – showing that he is not as unqualified and unready as clinton claims. his consistently calm manner is a good sign of commander-in-chief qualities.

the moderators were pretty tough on the candidates (and rightly so) but i don't think clinton handled the challenges well. she was overly defensive and sensitive, taking things too personally.

lastly, "rejecting" support is a bit of an awkward concept… clinton shouldn't have dwelt too long on it…

Jack   February 27th, 2008 12:48 am ET

Obama tacitly gave a "wink-wink nudge nudge" to Farrakhan. Obama needs to REJECT Farrakhan. The fact that he doesn't shows that he is willing to compromise and tolerate Farrakhan. He should not tolerate Farrakhan. He should, I repeat, completely and utterly REJECT Farrakhan.

Jay   February 27th, 2008 12:48 am ET

Dear Mrs. Clinton,
I have great respect for you. It is time for us democrats to unite. The time to rally behind our more electable candidate is NOW. Let's leave Mccain and his conservatives fight.

Evey   February 27th, 2008 12:48 am ET

You Obama supporters need to wake up! Get a clue! You aren't voting for American Idol you know. Hillary has a better plan for college students, universal health care and the economy. Maybe it doesn't concern the freshman in college right now, but you will be whistling a different tune in a year from now.

Abe - Ohio   February 27th, 2008 12:47 am ET

Hillary's reference to last Sat night's SNL skit was spot on and I applaud her for calling a spade a spade. The point was not that she is given the first question, the point is every time there is a "tough" question, it goes to her first and allows Obama more time to think about what he wants to say and then he either gets to say he agrees with Hillary's response and try's to make it his own, or allows him the opportunity to just say I agree, then move on to another point he wants to make – clearly he has been given the advantage more often than not in terms of the way he is treated.

tmitche   February 27th, 2008 12:46 am ET

Are you kidding me CNN? Tim Russert asked the question, not HRC. The media has been the biggest disappointment in this campaign. I know nothing about Barack Obama except that he is a charismatic man. HRC answers all the questions at the debate and this is the headline you come with. This is really sad for the American people who cannot make an informed decision because of the biased media.

Kevin in OK   February 27th, 2008 12:46 am ET

It's very obvious that Barack Obama is not ready to be president. He's more interested in being president to boost his ego. It's very clear that Hillary Clinton has the solutions, the answers, and the ability to be our next president. She clearly has the best interests of America in her heart, and she will make an excellent president.

Hillary Clinton '08 and beyond!

tmitche   February 27th, 2008 12:46 am ET

Are you kidding me CNN? Tim Russert ask the question, not HRC. The media has been the biggest disappointment in this campaign. I know nothing about Barack Obama except that he is a charismatic man. HRC answers all the questions at the debat and this is the headline you come with. This is really sad for the American people who cannot make an informed decision because of the biased media.

Terry Head, Texas   February 27th, 2008 12:46 am ET

A denunciation is in fact a rejection. Sen. Clinton attempted to spit hairs on this point. However, Sen. Obama did not fall for her ploy. I commend him for being presidential and correct on this point, for this was an attempt to smear Sen. Obama with the brush of racism and anti-Semitism. Way to go Sen. Obama!

Nick   February 27th, 2008 12:46 am ET

Denounce can also be: "to announce formally the termination of (as a treaty")

Reject can be "to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose, or use." Simply rejection.

Barack eventually stop playing the semantics game and said "But if the word 'reject' Senator Clinton feels is stronger than the word 'denounce,' then I'm happy to concede the point,… "

Barack is clever with words and determined that the word reject is considered a stronger word than denounced according to Hillary Clinton. and he used it.
Barack never rejected the support of Louis Farrakan. That's interesting. Extremely clever

Anonymous   February 27th, 2008 12:45 am ET

A denunciation is in fact a rejection. Sen. Clinton attempted to spit hairs on this point. However, Sen. Obama did not fall for her ploy. I commend him for being presidential and correct on this point, for this was an attempt to smear Sen. Obama with the brush of racism and anti-Semitism. Way to go Sen. Obama!

David S   February 27th, 2008 12:45 am ET

Denounce is much harsher than reject. Does anybody know the meaning of words anymore, even I know that! for those who don't there is this thing called a dictionary…….Geez

JIMMY   February 27th, 2008 12:45 am ET

The Debates have been the most watched on TV and I think both debates were a "draw". MOST IMPORTANTLY, IT IS CLEAR THAT
BOTH HILLARY AND OBAMA ARE ELECTABLE AND IF HILLARY OR
OBAMA WERE ELECTED , IT WOULD REALLY MAKE HISTORY.
YET, FAR, FAR BETTER IT WOULD BE IF THEY WOULD TEAM UP
AS PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT.: A CLINTON-OBAMA OR OBAMA-CLINTON TICKET IF ONE OR THE OTHER WOULD FORGET
THEIR EGOS AND THE NOMINEE ASKS THE LOSER TO BE HIS/HER RUNNING MATE FOR VP.. IT WOULD BE BY FAR THE MOST HISTORIC POLITICAL EVEN IN AMERICAN POLITIS AND HISTORY. NOT TO MENTION THE FACT THAT THE PAIRING WOULD BE UNBEATABLE BY ANY REPUBLICAN PAIRING.

Michael   February 27th, 2008 12:45 am ET

What do you think of your guy when he flip-flops on positions? Oh, you just look the other way, yeah, that's right. I think that you and the rest of the sheep following Obama will be held responsible for stealing this election from the people. What bias! What about his flip flopping on the 527 commercial? What about his deliberately proven false mailers that he will not pull? What about his plagiarism from not only Patrick, but also Bill Clinton, John Edwards and others? What about his backwards talk of fresh Washington politics with new players and then accepting and promoting endorsements with the old politicians such as Kennedy, Kerry and Dobbs? These points should be addressed by you and all of the media instead of your constant Hillary-bashing that you are so intent on doing.

didi   February 27th, 2008 12:44 am ET

lol…lol… go obama!

Alice Rea   February 27th, 2008 12:44 am ET

The Chicago Tribune and The Chicago Sun Times are the two papers discussing the support Farrakh he has for Barack Obama

A search for Louis Farrakhan will also provide infomation pertaining to the many other radical groups connected with him

tom   February 27th, 2008 12:44 am ET

cnn..i guess supports clinton..and i guess clinton has real problems understanding things..since i guess clinton did not understand denounce as saying i reject..clinton is the same old same old..weather in pants or a skirt..i really think obama would have no problem beating mccain..i am a registered republican..have not voted since reagan..but..i will be voting for obama..in 2008..he has showed tonight..the calm..common sense..straight forward responses..that we are looking for to be president..clinton i felt just used the same old politics of avoiding the answer..i do not believe she will release her tax returns..i do not believe she will release the transcripts of when bill was in office..clinton will say anything or do anything to be president..i think it is that simple..

Cathy   February 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

Actually, denounce and reject are synonyms in my thesaurus.

Wise woman   February 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

Hillary showed she's the one with the balls tonight. You Obama supporters crack me up. He may not win in the general election no matter how much you dream and hope. I know plenty of Hillary supporters that will go to McCain or Nader but never Obama.

Frank   February 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

It was like a dentist pulling teeth, but I think Obama more or less finally decided he had to reject Farrakhan. As someone who supports Obama this whole exchange was a low point in the debate for me.

Andrea   February 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

Obama supporters: you are complete morons. You follow your candidate so blindly! You are going to be backing away from him so soon when you see his real intentions and record. Please, I beg you to do your research. The press has pitted you against Hillary and you so willingly follow. Please, this is more than some Nintendo game, this is the presidency! Quit acting like adolescent fools!

Atl Republican   February 27th, 2008 12:43 am ET

I see all these comments from Americans that feel they have the answers. Well let me bust your bubble, you don't! I don't see your name on the ballet. What are you doing for your country? Quite slamming Clinton, stop baggering Obama, quit blamming everything on one party or the other. This is America, this is our country, did you forget? If you don't like it, leave. There is NO one stopping you. Every comment I have read is either made by someone who doesn't know the truth, someone that is not up to date on currant events or is willing to "vote"(which they've never done before) for whom ever they're told to. You don't vote for someone or not vote for someone because they are black or because they are a woman. People, look at the facts! Yes, the facts require a little experience and a plan. A plan requires a how to, a start date and a finish date and a dollar amount as well as where those dollars are going to come from. Anything other than that is just pure BS. So far McCain and Clinton are the only candidates that have stated a true plan. Obama has yet to tell us where the money is going to come from to back his fairy tale dreams. His campaigns words by the way!

Jake   February 27th, 2008 12:41 am ET

God I love Hillary Clinton.

She really is outstanding in every way.

She is the fighter that we need as our President. That is so apparent to me.

I totally believe and trust this woman that she will fight for ME. She will get me healthcare and bring jobs and I know she knows what to DO.

She is the fighter that the democrats need.

Unity is nice, but I don't really care about unifying with the republicans. Since when did they care about the democrats?

and change? Well – she's right – a woman president would be a change. My wife tells me that every day.

Listen anyone is change after bush.

Yup. She's "The One" (as oprah says) – she's who I'm voting for next Tues in Texas.

Florida for Obama   February 27th, 2008 12:41 am ET

I think the media is doing a wonderful job of dividing the democratic party right down the middle. I hope supporters of both Hillary and Obama are able to put their differences aside in November. We should all agree that either canidate would be better than McCain

Winkzilla   February 27th, 2008 12:41 am ET

Social security is mandatory when people are engaged in making incomes. If you are not working, your are not mandated to contribute to social security. The mandatory for social security is relational to your standing in regard to your work and income. Due to this, I do not understand Hillary Clinton when she attempts to make our mandatory social security the same as mandating everyone to pay health care premiums regardless of your standing. The two are not the same.

Fair America   February 27th, 2008 12:41 am ET

Failed attempt at a "gotcha" moment for Hillary.
Yet another example of Obama rising above the political fray with common sense.

I do have to say that I agree with a few posts above though.
CNN – the story headline on the political ticker is more fair. The story headline on the cnnpolitics.com page is sensastionalist. This is not the type of journalism I have come to expect from you guys…don't Fox News us!

QuietStormX   February 27th, 2008 12:41 am ET

Clinton is so picky, it drives me crazy. It was just petty and she knew what the deal was… It just seams that if she doesnt get her way, Hillary gets mad and has to have the last word or point…. Someone should tell her too shut up!

Donna   February 27th, 2008 12:40 am ET

I wish both candidates had the nerve to speak up for America protecting the safety and protection of the Palestinian people as much as it does for Israel. I also wish Russert and Williams would have had the nerve to ask the question.

Melissa   February 27th, 2008 12:40 am ET

Months ago my dad said to me–Melissa, you know that Hillary has been foaming at the mouth for this forever and she's gonna do what she has to to try to be the nominee. This was another attempt that backfired in her face just like the comment she made last week that garnered boos.

As a woman, I was personally a bit offended that she spent a lot of that debate whining–even about trivial issues such as "answering first" when in all reality–doesn't the football team always want to receive? With being asked first she had the opportunity to set the tone for the debate. Which turned out, again, to be her highlighting her "35 years of experience" If she didn't bring in the slant about her being a fighter I would say Barack had a shutout. I just went on a tangent, anyway, she spent much of the debate whining and bantering and at first even getting so flustered that I thought maybe (if we're lucky) she may suffer spontaneous combustion she uses the if a woman were in the white house it would be a "sea change."

I do not want Hillary to be the first woman president of this country.

Andrea   February 27th, 2008 12:39 am ET

Obama is the ultimate whiner and he lets the press do his negative campaigning for him. I would like to know, what are they getting out of it? What a loser! He can never answer anything completely. Do some research and you will find he is the one that played the race card. This guy wines any time someone questions him on his position, even if it is legitimate. Wake up America! Don't you want a president with proven action?!

John Denney   February 27th, 2008 12:39 am ET

Denounce – to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil

Reject – to refuse or not to accept.

but then again Hillary thinks words are meaningless.

Margaret A.   February 27th, 2008 12:39 am ET

It is disturbing to know that Obama is still under a pastor who gave an award to Farrakhan, the muslim leader who made such hateful
comments against the Jews.

Ken   February 27th, 2008 12:38 am ET

I think it outlandish for Obama to even be questioned about the endorsement of someone else. But in the grand scheme of things its even more outlandish that Clinton felt the need to take denouncing Farrakhan to the next step of total rejection…well played Obama let her dig her own grave.

emma stein   February 27th, 2008 12:36 am ET

IS CNN ON HILLARY'S PAYROLL!.; WHAT SHOW DID THEY WATCH

HILLARY ACTUALLY INTERUPT OBAMA RESPONSE , AND IN

RETURN' SHE PUT IT ON A TEE' FOR OBAMA TO HIT IT OUT OF THE

PARK . OBAMA RESPONSE "Hillary if you you are confuse with

denounce and reject; just for you I REJECT " ……BLAM right out the

park.

edge   February 27th, 2008 12:36 am ET

re·ject -a verb used as an object…
1. to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.: to reject the offer of a better job.
2. to refuse to grant (a request, demand, etc.).

de·nounce -verb (used with object), -nounced, -nounc·ing. 1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.

1. to condemn or censure openly or publicly: to denounce a politician as morally corrupt.

from MSNBC

marlene   February 27th, 2008 12:36 am ET

Anyone who argues about trivial things such as the choice of using denounce vs. reject should not be on the same stage with Barack. I am surprised she is a senator! She should pack her bags and go home. ( Also denounce is a stronger word that reject)

Peter   February 27th, 2008 12:36 am ET

i dont know how this counts for a point for Hilary because, Obama, showed more leadership qualities and judgment in addressing the issue, an experience Hilary clearly lacks.

Long-term Memory   February 27th, 2008 12:36 am ET

Whew, thank you, Hillary. I was not quite ready to tolerate (as liberal as I am and as politically correct as I might want to be) Louis Farrakhan's endorsement of anyone in the Democratic party. I hate to be another spoiler (CNN moderators, watch out, here I go), but, my goodness (are all these commas too correct for your editors?), do you imagine that your reporting is doing something other than solidifying the GOP against the Democrats?

I hate to be a pain, but I will post this again if I feel that the moderators have been somehow intolerant of my views of Hillary, unless, of course, you would like the "Change" express to be engineered by members of the RNC.

PA Voter   February 27th, 2008 12:36 am ET

Don, I agree with you. You can't say Hillary is wishy-washy. That's what I like about her–she's direct and to the point. Obama doesn't want to hurt anyone's feelings including Farrakhan…. Oh boy, this should be interesting…. I think more of the point is the connection to Obama's pastor Jeremiah Wright Jr who's been close to Obama all through this campaign. It was his pastor who not only travelled with Farrakhan in earlier years but just last year awarded the "Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. Trumpeter Award" to Louis Farrakhan, a man who "truly epitomized greatness"…. That's the problem with it….

(If you go to Obama's church's website by googling "Trinity United Church of Christ", this will link you to his pastor and the magazine "Trumpet Newsmagazine" and from there you can link yourself to this award being made…. It's all connected…)

John, from Las Vegas, NV   February 27th, 2008 12:35 am ET

From Merriam-Webster (look it up yourself if interested):

denounce

Main Entry:
de·nounce Listen to the pronunciation of denounce
Pronunciation:
di-ˈnau̇n(t)s, dē-
Function:
transitive verb
Inflected Form(s):
de·nounced; de·nounc·ing
Etymology:
Middle English, from Anglo-French denuncier to proclaim, from Latin denuntiare, from de- + nuntiare to report — more at announce
Date:
13th century

1: to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil
2 archaic a: proclaim b: to announce threateningly
3: to inform against : accuse
4 obsolete : portend
5: to announce formally the termination of (as a treaty)

And now, Hillary Clinton's idea of strong language:

reject

Main Entry:
1re·ject Listen to the pronunciation of 1reject
Pronunciation:
ri-ˈjekt
Function:
transitive verb
Etymology:
Middle English, from Latin rejectus, past participle of reicere, from re- + jacere to throw — more at jet
Date:
15th century

1 a: to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose, or use
b: to refuse to hear, receive, or admit : rebuff, repel
c: to refuse as lover or spouse
2 obsolete : to cast off
3: throw back, repulse
4: to spew out
5: to subject to immunological rejection

I don't know about you, but I think denounce sounds a lot worse.

Think Hillary wants to edit the Bible and make sure Peter "rejects" Christ three times instead of "denying"? Just throwing that out there.

caroljac   February 27th, 2008 12:35 am ET

Farrakhan's remarks about Jews was very questionable. Obama addressed it. He has no control over who endorses him. He stated VERY clearly, that he denounced this endorsement, Hillary Clinton said that he needs to reject it. Obama said he denounces the endorsement and that he feels that denouning it or rejecting is semantics. He clearly REJECTED it when asked. Me personally, I don't see why he had to reject it, denouncing was good enough for me.

Georgie   February 27th, 2008 12:35 am ET

Obama called him " Minister Farrakhan" that suggests they know each other very well, as Obamas "church" is affilliated with Farrakhan. Hillary called Obama out on rejection instead of just denouncing. Obama danced around the whole issue. Seems Like Obama has an agenda. Don't take a chance.Hillary is VerySmart !!! Vote for Hillary !!!!!!!!!!

Peter   February 27th, 2008 12:35 am ET

Thank you CNN I thought you would never post something contoversial on Obama.

Can you look into his real estate dealings that appear in the chicago area.

Robert   February 27th, 2008 12:34 am ET

Obama will be bad for Israel, and bad for the Jewish people. When will we see this wolf in sheep's clothing. Soon, we will learn that the Nation of Islam contributed to Obama's campaign. The IRS is now investigating his church. Just wait…. McCain will kill Obama in the general. Take off your blinders before it's too late. Obama is a pro-Palestinian demogogue!!! Stop watching reality television and do your homework.

Alice Rea   February 27th, 2008 12:34 am ET

Read abut the man that supports him
There is an article in the Chicago Tribune Feb 24 or Feb 25 2008.
Search Louis Farrakhan on the internet also
We all need to see why he is supporting Obama.
This is a new world and we need to be cautious

Jorge from California   February 27th, 2008 12:33 am ET

Nice way to come back to her attacks!!!

M. Frederick Voorhees   February 27th, 2008 12:33 am ET

I agree with everyone who said this headline was misleading. Mooney does not do justice to the spirit of the moment. Anyone who actually watched the exchange concluded that Hillary came across as a foolish, desperate, nitpicker. Her dignity is escaping her.

Gil - California   February 27th, 2008 12:33 am ET

You stupid woman, you haven't rejected Bill's support have you?

tk   February 27th, 2008 12:32 am ET

This certainly is a sensationalist headline. It was a lofty attempt by a desperate candidate to bring a non-issue to a head. I figured most people would see past the semantics. There were plenty of news worthy topics in the debate. This certainly wasn't one of them.

Mrs. America   February 27th, 2008 12:32 am ET

Molly — Where do you get your info? Reject is to not accept. Denounce is to condemn. And you mean "imply," not "infer." Just a quick lesson, and I hope it's helpful. Thank you.

California 4 Hillary   February 27th, 2008 12:32 am ET

Anyone notice that there is only a couple 'pro-Hillary' comments on this thread? Wonder why?

Me3   February 27th, 2008 12:32 am ET

A new style of politics…is still politics. The way that Obama responded to that shows his hesitation and "new political thinking" with regards to alienating a potential voting block.

Shirley Amato   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

Hillary Clinton should be the next President of the great USA

kg   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

look i really don't write in these things but I remember from my SAT's that denounce is far stronger that reject. Somebody needs a webster's dictionary.

Len   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

This was a strange moment where Clinton seemed to get picky. What is the difference between reject and denounce. I think actually denounce is the stronger word and Obama was right to denounce it. Reject has less emotional impact. It doesn't seem so morally strong. You can reject anything without moral implication. To denounce is morally strong. So Clinton looked like she was parsing here. Obama was right to use denounce. It made Clinton look like a nitpicking lawyer.

John M   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

How did I know that CNN would pick the most sensationalist and least news-worthy item to comment on in its debate reaction?

A neutral observer saw two very, very good candidates who each have different strengths and weaknesses. Tim Russert was a fool for reaching to the bottom of the barrel on this issue – not because it is salacious, but because it is trivial and adds nothing significant to the debate about these two candidates.

I don't know who "won" the debate. But it wasn't Tim Russert and it certainly was not CNN.

Craig, Seattle WA   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

The whole questioning line was really a bit pointless. The moderators tried to draw Obama out on something that is really a non-issue. Hillary tried to turn it into an advantage for her, by saying she made a stronger division between herself and people who supported her yet had questionable positions. It was really just splitting hairs, and certainly not her hitting or attacking him.

Roger   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

Your missing the issue that really was a win for Hillary! Obama has skated on getting away with milley mouth answers on non kid glove questions. Tim tried and he started his dance number with I can’t help it if he thinks I am a good guy. Hillary saw the dance and called him on it…he had to stop the dance and finally answer. Can’t have Farrakhan voters and Jewish voter both Obama..choose! and make that choice on what is right! Make no mistake about it unless Hillary nailed him he wouldn’t have done the right thing!
Comment by You are all missing the point

Bev   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

Hillary keeps challenging Obama to a debate and then the est she can do is quibble about the words reject and denounce and that she always gets asked the first question. She brings nothing new to the debate. It is just a rehash of the previous debate. All she wants is free publicity. She came out of the debate looking worst than before. In the Texas debate she at least with a few minutes that were positive for her. She wasn't able to pull that off this time. She should have quit while she was ahead.

micah   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

Hilary was right to counsel Obama about the need to
REJECT outright Farrahkan's endorsement. Louis
Farrakhan is a racist and I was pleased to see Obama
agree with Clinton that he needed to REJECT
Farrakhan's endorsement.

Alfredo   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

Hillary wasn't concerned about "denouncing" or "rejecting" anybody. She merely tried to get political gain by her comment. Senator Obama handled it well and demonstrated poise and presidential polish. Clinton just demonstrated small mindedness and politics as usual. Perhaps she should have taken the time to "denounce" and "reject" her own husband for his thinly veiled racial comments. How they forget.

Joe   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

To Debbie: Of course the support/endorsement of the KKK would and should be renounced/rejected. Being 'American' has nothing to do with it. There are immoral, hate filled Americans- being American does not guarantee any type of support- well, maybe welfare….

mona   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

The story of little red riding hood comes to mind with Obama's answer to this question when he refers to he is not going to denounce anyone who thinks he is a "good guy."
"My what nice eyes you have Obama….oh…oh…what nice teeth you have Obama…" Hehehe their you have it folks, the possible nominee for the democratic party can't reject someone who says he is a "good guy." Obama are you sure you really shouldn't be a contestant on the "bachelor?"

It also speaks to the fact that Obama can easily be influenced when he doesn't know what to say. Oh yes btw there is a difference between "reject" and "denounce". My american education has taught me that

Juan Carlos(Las Vegas)   February 27th, 2008 12:31 am ET

He stumbled there is no doubt about it.

Peter   February 27th, 2008 12:30 am ET

The differnece is that you can se that Hillary knows mroe than Obama he simply copies Hillary and says the same thing mor eloquently.

She debates better on topics, he was flat to me and copies Hillary.

jesse   February 27th, 2008 12:30 am ET

One thing is clear, Barack is our man! Hillary, thank you and goodnight. Time to step down graciously and rally behind Obama. Take your negative energy and apply it towards anyone who gets in Obama's way.

Maliek   February 27th, 2008 12:29 am ET

Wow she really nailed him on that! He never even criticized the comment of his minister that Farakhan is "a great man" Obama is beginning to really scare me– Clinton made clear how much smarter and fair she is.

Eli-Wisconsin Dem   February 27th, 2008 12:29 am ET

Hey, I looked up the two words and denounce works better for me in this situation. It seems to me that the only power that reject has over denounce is familiarity. This seems fitting for Senator Clinton seeing that she represents the same old politics, might as well use the same old words.

Rose   February 27th, 2008 12:29 am ET

Don't forsake your brothers, they gonna miss you and may get mad for denying your background especially when you were in Indonesia. don't fool American people!!

Joe   February 27th, 2008 12:29 am ET

Obama can always walk away from his church and his pastor. Actions always speak louder than words. Instead, Obama continues his membership in a church that praises Farakhan.

If you are truly rejecting Farakhan and your pastor's embrace of him, then walk away from your church membership.

Easy choice.

Robert   February 27th, 2008 12:29 am ET

The question was stupid, and so was Hillary's whole speech about "reject". Its so childish!! Its like beating a dead horse for God's sake. Obama said he does not agree with the man's statements and what he portrays…what more do you want???

Geezz…how about we get to the real issues facing Americans. Oh no, Hillary is too busy worrying about the difference between reject and denounce. What you should have done was denounce going to war in Iraq!

will   February 27th, 2008 12:28 am ET

CNN i watched the whole debate, in fact i have watched everyone of the debates republican and dem. the fact that you actually ran this as story is buying into the race baiting that as a white american i find disgusting. you could have pick a more important story or word it differently. it make me wonder if you are buying into the pressure the clinton supporters are putting on you? Msnbc did even make a big deal about and they hosted the debate.

Linda   February 27th, 2008 12:28 am ET

Hillary's EXPERIENCE shines every time! And, of course, Obama’s “lack of experience” shines even more…would you say he looked nervous…?

Well, I guess Obama won the debate once again, right? Get a life Obama zombies!

Peter   February 27th, 2008 12:28 am ET

Obama did not seek his support but he did not reject his "endorsement" until tonight when hillary put him on the spot REJECT him – which he conceeded he did.

Scott Kampmeyer   February 27th, 2008 12:28 am ET

How can anyone HONESTLY think Hillary won??? Obama was the CLEAR winner tonight…. everybody saw:

- Her 15 min health care filibuster to begin the debate

- Her whining about having to answer questions first

- Her bizarre SNL/pillow comments

- Her totally being busted for her NAFTA support

- Her awkward attempt at cornering Obama on the Farrakan thing, backfiring on her

- Her totally being busted on hiding her taxes, and her previous itineraries. "I'm too busy to do it right now" she says….

- Her totally being busted on promising new 200,000 new jobs for upstate NY, which has instead LOST 35,000 jobs

NOBAMA   February 27th, 2008 12:27 am ET

I think Barack missed Hillary's point. It isn't merely Farrakhan's negative remarks about Jews/Israel. He should simply (should have done it when it happened btw) reject any support for that racist hate monger. Looks to me like Barack was afraid of ailienating black people and danced around the obvious. Hillary had it right!

David   February 27th, 2008 12:27 am ET

Hillary is a very vile person. In 2000 or 2001, she rejected the anti-semites in Newyork. Duh… She was running in NewYork!!! God knows what she would have done if she was running somewhere in the South.
Farakan or What ever his name is said Obama is a better candidate than Hillary or McCain and I really don't see any reason to reject anything there. He may be a hateful person but that is his God given right to like Obama. I think this was a non issue and shows how dangerous the Clintons are.

bond   February 27th, 2008 12:27 am ET

Straight from Websters:

Reject- to refuse to accept, consider, submit to, take for some purpose

Denounce- to pronounce especially publicly to be blameworthy or evil

Hillary is a moron.

JOHN   February 27th, 2008 12:27 am ET

SOME SPIN DOCTOR ONE OF HILLARYS SUPPORTERS HAD THE NERVE TO SAY "SHE HIT A HOME RUN" IT'S CLEAR TO ME THIS LADY KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT BASEBALL. A DOUBLE MAYBE, BUT NO HOMERUN AND I MUST REMIND HER THERE IS NO CRYING IN BASEBALL. "I ALWAYS GET THE FIRST QUESTION. WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA, WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAA, WHAAAAAAAAAAAA,

Angry   February 27th, 2008 12:27 am ET

CNN,
I dare you to post this.
What a stupid headline "Clinton hits Obama over Farrakhan".
Did you watch the debates?
Thank goodness, millions, except CNN reporters, saw something different.
Grow up Cinton Network News!

Heartlight 3, Maui, HI   February 27th, 2008 12:26 am ET

My take on it is that Obama can denounce what Mr. Farrakhan has to say on race or anti-semitism, but in this country anyone has a right to state their opinion. I don't see that Senator Obama is obligated to reject Mr. Farrakhan's statement that it is his opinion that Obama would be good for the country. That borders on denying his entitlement to free speech.

Texas4Obama   February 27th, 2008 12:26 am ET

He said DENOUNCE
She said REJECT

DENOUNCE is the correct word and the stronger word.

KL   February 27th, 2008 12:26 am ET

Who is Obama? Ask yourself. What's his accomplishment? Did you watch ABC Nightline yesterday? If you watched, you will do anything to stop Obama.

Oh, my God. Wake up Obama-cult followers!

Go anybody, but Obama!

Todd   February 27th, 2008 12:26 am ET

Obama's connection Frakhan is really scary! He stammered through his response to it. He should have immediately asked Farakhan to stop supporting him. And his OWN minister says Farakhan is a "great man??!!! Why didn't this come out before?!

Oh tight becaus the media is officially suffering Obaphillic disorder.

dee   February 27th, 2008 12:26 am ET

cnn is pathetic.making this a headline as if obama supports farakhan is shameful! barack's come back was great though.
cnn never ceases to stoop to a new low.
and yes,it was a question to try and bring barack down.
cnn,anderson cooper and 360, all of you pander to the clinton's because you're afraid of them.
what a bunch of wimps.
not the most trusted name in the business,and does not keep them honest.

AZ   February 27th, 2008 12:25 am ET

I agree with the commenter above who noted that "dneounce" is actually a stronger word than to simply "reject". Clinton needs to get a dictionary or, more likely, stop trying to make political points without substance.

Really, a Clinton shouldn't get into the position of trying to parse words like this, anyway. It recalls "what the meaning of is, is" kind of weasel-talk.

Hillary thought she has a gotcha and all she got was herself.

Matthew   February 27th, 2008 12:25 am ET

I'm sick of these debates. They keep squabbling over the same stuff. Barack seemed steady and unphased tonight. Hillary strangely looks invigorated by parsing relatively pointless details… she grates, he's great. I wonder how long she'll spend on THIS particular comment and how it doesn't cite her favorably…there's a reason.

Matilsky NY   February 27th, 2008 12:24 am ET

This questioning was out of line. It was asked as if Sen Obama is guilty of something. Why hasn't Hillary reject Bill Clinton once he made that racist comment in SC? Bill continues to be a part of her campaign. .

Michael   February 27th, 2008 12:24 am ET

This is a complete non-issue. Hillary tried to turn it into a knockdown but it ended up fizzling. Farrakhan is a nut and everyone, including Obama, knows it. There are far more substantive issues to focus on, like health care and the crummy economy, than what a third-rate preacher said about Obama.

La Raza   February 27th, 2008 12:24 am ET

You can show 100 debates and Hillary will lose them all. She can't touch this man PERIOD!

BC in Ohio   February 27th, 2008 12:23 am ET

Denounce: to condemn or censure openly or publicly

Reject: to refuse to have, take, recognize, etc.

Seems to me that "denounce" is a much stronger word than "reject"… Hillary needs to buy a dictionary.

dennis   February 27th, 2008 12:23 am ET

This is an awful headline for anyone listening to the debate clearly heard how senator Obama won this point handily. indeed, his last remark at the end maginalized the purported gravitas of Mrs. Clinton's remarks. Why then this headline which seems to imply Mrs. Clinton scored pints on this?

realchange   February 27th, 2008 12:22 am ET

Hillary Clinton is down for the mothers and the children!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Obama is a new face with a politician mind. That is why he does not care about the endorsements from the likes of jesse jackson and Al sharpton because he knows these people will ruin his chances of getting into office. This weekend was the Black State of the Union Address, Hosted by Tavis Smiley. Al Sharpton was there. Dick Gregory was there. These people were giving props to