February 29, 2008
Posted: 03:59 PM ET
 Obama would face a tough general election race.
Obama would face a tough general election race.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Barack Obama doesn't even have the Democratic nomination, and yet questions are already swirling over whether he could withstand the fierce assault he certainly would face from the Republicans in a general election. Whatever criticism he confronted during the Democratic primaries would likely be child’s play compared to what’s coming up.

That fear was reinforced by the front-page story in The New York Times entitled “For Obama, Taste of What a Long Battle Holds.” Adam Nagourney writes that Republican “opposition research” is gearing up for a battle against Obama. The suggestion is that they will use material from Obama’s past that Hillary Clinton and the other Democratic candidates avoided.

“Some cases are simple let’s-go-to-the-video moments, like Mr. Obama’s statements that he would support giving drivers’ licenses to illegal aliens or would support raising taxes to shore up Social Security, lines of attack that Republicans are already employing,” Nagourney writes. Other material could be more explosive.

“He regularly goes out there and says he’s the person who can beat John McCain,” chief Clinton strategist Mark Penn is quoted as saying. “But the truth is, if he is ever in a general election, a lot of positions he took in 2003 and 2004 will come back to haunt him in a big way and a lot of the vetting that didn’t happen will happen. The independent and Republican support that he has had will evaporate really quickly.”

Clinton's camp is convinced that she could withstand a Republican assault in a general election campaign better than Obama. They have often pointed out that she has a lot more experience in this area – given the battles she’s faced over the years. Her supporters are especially anxious right now that voters in Texas and Ohio appreciate what could be in store for Obama before making up their minds. And that’s the case for the Superdelegates as well.

– Wolf Blitzer

Filed under: Wolf Blitzer


Richard   February 29th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Note to McCain - Sweet-talk Condeleeza Rice to be your VP. It's time for a woman/black who're REALLY qualified. Obama and Hillary would have to concede that kind of teamwork ! She could handle either one of them, with McCain handling the bigger issues.

G.moody, Alabama   February 29th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

Barack is much tougher than the media tries to portray him as! He has prevailed against the odds his entire life. The GOP will not stop this man, nor McCain. He has millions of Americans standing behind him.

There's a hurricane of change approaching and nothing can stop it.

alngls   February 29th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

It seems to be part of the GOP strategy to attack and weaken Senator Obama with the objective that voters will support Senator Clinton, whom, they think, will be easier for them to beat in the general election.

John Z.   February 29th, 2008 9:00 pm ET

I totally agree with Wolf Blitzer. If he's the nominee, Obama will be tarred and feathered by the GOP and the media, as everything bad that can be said about Hillary has already been said, but Obama's past is fertile territory.

Arlene NY   February 29th, 2008 9:00 pm ET

That story from Canada involving the Obama camp calling a Canadian official to say that Obama would be saying that he would pull the plug on NAFTA , but that Canada shouldn't worry because what he says will just be rhetoric, has now been CONFIRMED by 2 high ranking officials who investigated the allogations. They re-checked again and confirmed again that the incident did happen. Yet, Obama lied and said the incident didn't happen. He has some explaining to do. He dragged Canada into his politics.

Raj   February 29th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

America is a superpower and they should always be represented by a strong person.This is where I beleive Obama does not fit in.What America needs is an Administrator not an orator.I would rather have a great administrator with swift strategies than a great speaker with no strategy.Because America is a superpower all countries are picking on them and the world is waiting for a weak President to come by to show how mean they can be.To me it would do a world of good if Obama serves as a VP to Clinton for 8 years before he ventures into the presidency race.

Marie H.   February 29th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

If Obama is the nominee, the republicans will surely win the election in November. With the number of Clinton cross-overs and McCain supporters, Obama will make a bigger fool out of himself that he already has. In an attempt to get the nomination, he is all talk and way over his head. He is to be feared. Hillary is the only sensible choice. Think, you democrats. Don't be misled by this cult leader Obama.

Real Democrats are voting for Hillary. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bill J from Pa.   February 29th, 2008 8:57 pm ET

Barack Hussein Obama can not take the pressure from the GOP……..

However Wolf, he has the big black machine pushing him………………..

I would never vote for him……………………….he lacks skills
and ability, and has never worked well with the white Senators and Congressmen. With the exception of teddy kennedy, and we all know
about his ethics, poor young lady never made it across that bridge.

Rebecca - Fresno, CA   February 29th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

Seems like he has done great so far…….. tactically, strategically, and with intelligence. As much as I might respect Sen McCain……. having him in office would not change a thing……new military approaches, maybe, and just slightly………but other than that, he has supported the administration for the past 7+ years. His foreign policy philosophy is exactly the same as the current administration. Other than bringing some integrity to the office, he wouldn't bring the change of direction the country needs.

Yep…. considering Barack Obama's life story and the obstacles he has overcome just to be in the position he finds himself in right now…..I am confident he will rise to the occasion…… and be the leader we need right now. The doubters and the Hope-haters will have to eat their words.

Olivia   February 29th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

I am an AfricanAmerican who supports Sen. Clinton and can not understand what all the fuss regarding her ad is about. We all want to feel safe and know that our love ones are safe whereever they may be. That means someone who does not rattle easily and is ready to make sound judgements like Sen. Clinton from day one. I also like Sen. Obama as well and would be happy if either one is elected.
I would also, like to see a more balanced reporting of Sen. Clinton and Sen Obama as well as John McCain. It is so bias toward Sen. Clinton and that is ashame because we need to hear the facts from all candidates and the media is not giving us that choice.

Jack from WV   February 29th, 2008 8:49 pm ET

Either way you look at it McCain can take either Hillary or Obama hands down. Hillary talks about her 35 years experience well than McCain must have 60 years experience. He has been around a while and knows the ins and outs of diplomacy when to use it and when it is done and something else needs to happen. Figure it out, both Obama and Hillary don’t have half the time in the Senate like McCain talk about being ready day one, that’s McCain. The GOP is waiting for Hillary and her closet full of skeletons and Obama’s poor voting record, and his lack of real experience. The democrats have nothing. One who is a good talker and one who loves debating and that’s suppose to show the American people they have what it takes to run the country, NOT They have spent too much time arguing back and forth and not enough time talking about the real issues and that can be blamed on the media they just keep feeding on all this and clouding the issues.

Closely Watching   February 29th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

Actually, Michael In Cleveland, he did release his tax return and, quite frankly, it is the voters who are asking to see hers. If you read these comments from previous posts you will see that even some of her supporters have asked her to follow suit to prove to them that she has nothing to hide…and if that is the case then why hasn't she released them?

It is important for people to know that the person who is promising to also bring about change is not getting her money from special interest groups or lobbyists. Much of this has stemmed from the fact that she lent her own campaign five million dollars, and if any of that came from such a group then she is beholden to them. And just a little research (homework) will enable you to see Senator Obama's returns.

Obama '08

Hillary and Hillary Only   February 29th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

No, he can't. Obama is weak and slow in tough decisions. Obama voted more than 100 "present" votes out of 1000 votes over the 4 years in Senate. He also missed out the most important foreign policy regarding Iran hearing.

He doesn't have a good judgement either. How could he did know about Rezko after being friends for 20 years and also bought property from him less than 300,000 under market value in 2005 after Rezko was indicted in 2004. This is a very bad judgement. For the Iraq war, how wouldn't you know he may vote if he has responsibility. After all he voted the same side with hillary in Iraq war during his term as US Senate.

Hillary can fight against Republicans. She fought with them in New York and also while she was a First Lady. She even worked with Republicans in some cases during her US Senate term. It is not late to vote for Hillary. If you count Florida and Michican, she still leads in the race. Hillary 2008.

Bill B.   February 29th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

It is really depressing to read these comments and think that the folks writing them are supposed to be "educated Americans." You know, maybe the GOP and the Democrats just give us what we deserve for being ignorant. I am not a huge supporter of any of the candidates, but as of now I think Barack Obama at least seems to be inspiring a lot of people who normally don't participate to get involved. That should be a good thing. At this moment, though, after reading through all the above comments with their misspellings, wild theories and petty hatred of others, I can honestly say I am ashamed.

yodit   February 29th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

YES HE CAN.

Damon   February 29th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Yes. I think everyone underestimates Obama and his partner in (Robin Hood) crime, David Axelrod. Clinton and McCain have been "campaigning" for a decade now. A year ago, Hillary Clinton thought she was a shoe-in for the democratic nomination then in comes Obama and tops both Clinton and McCain. Obama is no typical democrat. He won't make the same mistakes Kerry made 4 years ago. He represents an America who is seriously pissed off at and tired of Bush and the rest of the GOP. Since 2004, the left, the moderates, and the thinking right has mobalized strong intellectual militias, holding on all fronts unlike the visible, centralized, right-wing idealogical think tank.

I also predict the signs of aging will throw John McCain out the bathwater.

Dianna   February 29th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

You Hillary folks and McCain folks need to get a grip!

People who think that Republicans are going to slaughter him are wishing on a star. The folks who vote for Obama realize he has little experience in Washington and they vote for him anyway because they see his lack of experience in Washington as a selling point! People who have been in DC too long are not attractive candidates to many — look at Kerry… I had to hold my nose when I voted for that beige wallpaper.

People will vote for Obama despite his lack of Washington experience and all of his sound bites that others believe will "get him in the end" are easily explained by Obama because (if you read his books you'll know) he truly reflects on all of his actions and his explanations are authentic, logical and ethically consistent.

Obama '08!

Steve, Cedar Rapids, Iowa   February 29th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

I do believe that Senator Obama can hold his ground against the Republicans. They have already went after him . They preach about Obama's inexperience but he has prolly more experience than GW did when he took the oath of office. No, I think the Republicans would rather run against Senator Clinton to fire up all the Clinton haters and right wing looneys.. They will not be able to compete with the fundraising juggernaut that Obama already has.. and they know it.. Anyone see Dick Cheney lately?? Don't worry.. you won't..

Dave, Allentown,PA   February 29th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Considering the train wreck of an administration that McCain has backed too often, Obama should win easily. The Dems should remind the nation of McCain's "100 year war" attitude, what the Iraq War has done to our military and economy, the absence of any real energy policy, the absence of any real border security, no real sacrifice for most of the population during a time of war, the ridiculous tax cut for the wealthiest and the absolute corporate greed. And that's just for starters! But, if people can forget the above during the coming campaign, then they deserve four more years of Bush brought to you by one of his water boys!

Jack, CA   February 29th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

No, he cannot. The reason is that Clinton cannot do a lot of the attacks to fellow Democrats without being labeled as divisive and negative. But Republicans will have no mercy!!!

Patrick Peavy Plano,TX   February 29th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

Quote"If you look or listen to McCain, you will easily notice that old age is taking toll over him. Today he said that he was a liberal republican before correcting himself. In the last few days, he said a few things and "corrected" himself on the spot. This is proof of an aging brain."

I am a huge Hillary supporter. But that isn't the point of this post. What I do want to know is in regards to the above mentioned quote-When did age discrimination become acceptable in a world where racial and gender discrimination isn't? I am really trying to grasp how that makes sense. Can someone please help me understand? Okay, enough sarcasm. I am just concerned that no one has a problem with slamming John McCain for his age when they would be pretty upset if someone denied employment to one of their grandparents.

yoshi927   February 29th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Clinton has, frankly, used every trick in the proverbial book. If there were things about his past to dig up, she would have done it. One thing you have to hand to her is that she's serious about her propaganda. This is just more of that.

midge from ohio   February 29th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

CORRINA Tell us why you believe in Obama, don't leave an empty statement. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer's column "Elephant in the room" Obama voted, while in the Illinois Senate, to allow babies born ALIVE AND BREATHING in partial-birth abortions to be killed or thrown in the medical waste bin. Oh yea, I really want to vote for someone like that. Look up the article.

kathy ,Ma.   February 29th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Sorry that program is on now on C-SPAN2

Mister Bill   February 29th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

If Hillary wins the Democratic nomination, can she select Bill as her vice presidential candidate?

Sue   February 29th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

I am a Clinton supporter and a lifelong Democrat. I know that she and Obama are not far apart on the issues but I just can't bring myself to support him if she loses the nomination. He makes lots of nice speeches and mostly says the right things but I don't think he is capable of following through on his promises. It seems like he is very good at running for office but has a history of not doing much once he gets there. Also, his cult like following scares me and I don't appreciate the way many of them have trashed Hillary Clinton.

By the way, I also had my doubts about the War in Iraq, but I did not have access to the information that members of congress had at the time and I could not make a judgment call based on information that was not availble to me. I was in the same position as Barack Obama. He has no right to take the high road on this one because he wasn't a part of the decision making process.

Sherylanne   February 29th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

Republicans are dancing in the streets with the chance Obama might become the Democratic nomination. They know he will never stand up in issues and debates. He will look even more inexperienced to handle this country than he did after the last debate.

If it wasn't for the media pushing Obama, young inexperienced voters, the black voters (who don't want to accept the fact that his mother was white and so are the grandparents that raised him) (curious, we never hear about them) and the Rock Star revival speeches he would be nowhere.

His fight for control of this country is far from over!

Sandy   February 29th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Wake up people the last 7 years have been terrible. Do you want another 4 years the same. Then vote for Obama or McCain. Hillary is the right person for the job. Remember when Bill Clinton was president we had GREAT TIMES. I had so much overtime at work and now I'm lucky if i get 40 hours. Go with what works. GO HILLARY !!!!!!! If not we are all going to be in BIG TROUBLE.

Ohio Voter   February 29th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Obama is the Democrats' best choice for beating McCain–and I think he will do that. The Clintons have a research team that is better than anything the Republicans oversee, and Hillary has come up with resoundingly silly attacks: He wrote a kindergarten essay saying he wanted to be President, he used words suggested by a close friend and campaign co-chair, he "denounced" rather than "rejected" Farrakhan….If there were better material, Hillary would use it.

Obama withstands these attacks because he has an unusual political sense: He apologizes and/or defuses the situation. Most politiians (including Hillary Clinton and John McCain) go into full denial mode, which just gets them into trouble.

As Hillary said, it's time for Dems to "get real"–she entered this race with a huge block of the American public opposed to her. During the primaries, she has only lost support–while Obama has been able to generate support from independents and new voters. HRC has a low ceiling on her support, while Obama has an undefined one. Get real, Dems–let's not lose the third election in a row by nominating Clinton.

Demetris Fisher   February 29th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Its funny that every one is counting Obama out so early. Couple of points:

Vig   February 29th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

No he can't. But Hillary Clinton can. Go Hillary!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

floridian   February 29th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

So much still left to do before the convention ends and before the general election occurs — like picking a running mate, putting together a platform, several debates, and the continuous campaigning at a feverish pace. It will be a tough grind for both candidates, their Veeps and their spouses and almost anything can happen. So I truly believe that the American people will have a chance to see and hear the two (four?) of them in a variety of situations and circumstances. Hopefully we the people will throw off the hate and bigotry espoused in these posts and make wise choices based on what the candidates and their party can deliver. Our children and grandchildren deserve that and more!

Dean   February 29th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

It's not about Obama. It's about the many supporters who own a piece of His Presidency and America. We will continue to have his back and beat back the Republicans.

John Adams   February 29th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Wow, here come the Hillary devotees - people as blind as she is to the fact that she cannot win the nomination at this point. If she weren't so blind to her own thirst for power, she would drop out of the race she will not win, and position herself for 2012.

Also, watch the news cycle since Tuesday - I guess when you whine about not getting enough press, suddenly every article is about you. I guess CNN is becoming more "fair and balanced" everyday!

Hill Girl   February 29th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

To eddie in New York….I am not sure I will vote for Barack instead of McCain. I have never voted Republican in my life but Senator Obama is jus too unknown for me to feel safe with him……I'm closer to your age and I am voting with my mind AND my wisdom. I've lived through Jimmy Carter - a smart man but not politically - and I don't want to take any chances. So, if the Democrats choose Senator Obama based on what he "says" he will do, I may have to go with wisdom and vote for the Republican whose record is known to me.

Renee   February 29th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Obama, is stronger that the Republcans think The problem the Republican have is that they just know that they will beat Obama. Don't down play Obama.

deb   February 29th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

What is it with this Obama guy? Doesn't anyone remember what happened when another charasmatic "crusader" got a bunch of people to follow his "dream": He led them all into the jungle and gave them KoolAid. Nuf' said! Go Hillary go!!!!

Byron in CA   February 29th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

I agree with Eddie in New York about Dems voting for McCain whichever candidate they are for. That's why I would think Nader rather than McCain if Hillary isn't the winner. BTW eddie, I too am an Independent but instead an exDem as of last year. Where's our voice lol.

I think most of the Clinton supporters that have stated they would vote for McCain if obama were nominated comes from exactly what Hillary is stating from her campaign regarding experience. That means alot to most Clinton folks and to them John McCain would have more experience than Obama, and they do have a point but I still say Nader would represent them better.

Basil   February 29th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Currently, Senator Obama is fighting battles on four fronts; the curent President Bush, former president Clinton, Senator's MccCain, and Clinton. Thanks to this gang of four, he is being vetted for what is inevidable, and he is still standing. In the genral election hopefully the gang of four will be reduced to a gang of two.

Senator Obama's performance in this election campaign is a destructive change, the aggressiveness of the gang of four is a measure of the effectiveness of the change. The world is rapidly changing and if the gang of four can not adapt to a domestic change can they be expected to adapt to the global change.

It's time for us Gray Beard's to move over and let the next generation of America's best and brightest to begin their reign.

Basil

AJ   February 29th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Obama will not win - Clinton supports will vote for McCain!

DeVone   February 29th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

he already has , look around no he is not a rock star he is
just a honest humanbeing and real Americans are human
and we are sick of the miss fortune that America has bought
us and shame on thouse who will not admitt to the need for
a new direction its time for honesty not just America the world
wants change we must admitt for the past eight years we have
been bullies not only to others but to ourselves and Mc Cain
nor Clinton can make that change its time for the heart the
mind and the SPIRIT

Al, Sacramento Ca   February 29th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Whoever votes Republican is murdering this country, McCain is a war president, just like Bush, they take America to war, that's all they know how to do.

How can a man be president who says he has no knowledge on econnomy. Are we that stupid and blind to believe this guys is going to change our domestic problems.

If Hillary doesn't win, go Obama. We have no choice, American needs to fight the GOP mafia.

ben   February 29th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Hmmm! If he has put a former first lady (and an ex president) in the shade, what about lesser mortals? Wolf, surely you are not afraid to reach for greater things for your country? Would you rather settle for government as usual or take a giant step for the USA? America is still inspired by Lincoln and JFK today (sadly not equally by William Clinton). Obama will one day be counted among these greats as well. Note that they were also considered lightweight before they became presidents.

mjc   February 29th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

thus far, he has caught up to clinton, not knocked her out. they have been neck and neck for too long - this to me shows people still have a lot of doubts about him.

don't forget we have the ELECTORAL COLLAGE to consider. she won all the big dem states… she really had a wide lead over him in California, and NY… I can see either of them going to McCain in a general.. Arnold endorsed McCain and he won big there when he ran…. its about states, not polls, opinion, or even, sadly, the popular vote.

florida will absolutley go for McCain if its against obama. it won't even be close. ohio too, probably.

i worry about him being the nominee. i think people are so excited and wrapped up in obama fever that they forget what country we live in.

Latinos for Obama   February 29th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

It's a very simple question? 100 more years in Iraq? Or NOT?
Of course he will beat someone who's sweetheart to Bush!

jp/michigan   February 29th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Obama will cry like he did in South Carolina. But now he'll say help me , poor me the republican people are picking on me. He will have to fend for himself. Let the games begin.

Angela   February 29th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

I have been saying this for 2 months now -

There is nothing the Republicans can do to Hillary that they haven't done already - everything they come up with is old news.

Obama will get creamed by the Republican machine.

Its already started. The underlings will do the dirty work and the RNC and the candidate will come out and say 'we don't agree with that'. But the damage will be done.

Ray   February 29th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

If attacks are how presidents are chosen, then look at what you have now and stop your whinning. What happened to picking a president based on what they are instead of bitterness that has dictated campaigns for the last 30 years. Scare your enimies not your fellow Americans.
Does enyone use thier brains enymore? To the rest of the globe you look stupid because the brains don't work and you let the TV and computers speak for you. All you loud mouths most likely never went to a rally for a candidate and yet you pick up words from those who get paid to suck you in with the crap they spread cuz they know you just sit there and complain Your pathetic with your comments . Remember, the rest of the world depends on you in America to use your brains as the president affects the world not just your street or village. A CANDIAN AFRAID OF WHAT i SEE AND HEAR

Independent4Hillary   February 29th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Obama didn't fix the pot holes in Chicago as Senator. With Obama as President our Government would be just another Pot Hole.
Vote Hillary Clinton for President

Clinton-Richardson 08′

Neil   February 29th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Finally, a few media words about this enormous weakness of Obama which will preclude any ability to win the general election. Unfortunately, it may be too late, which is exactly what the Obama-worshippers on CNN and MSNBC seem to want. They still are ignoring the REZKO trial, starting Monday, at which Obama's CORRUPTION will be exposed. Once his "beyond politics" demagoguery is exposed (geez, he got $14 million in government funding for Rezko, and later solicited him to line up suspicious [possibly from an arab criminal] money to allow Obama to buy his mansion, at the same time Rezko was under FBI investigation), he will have nothing. He called the whole episode a "bone-headed mistake." That's the "judgment" we are supposed to rely on? The right-wing smear machine, unconstrained by the Clintons' concern for the Democratic party, will utterly destroy him in short order. People of Texas and Ohio, HELP SAVE OUR COUNTRY–VOTE HILLARY!

me   February 29th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Not a chance..none at all
Most Hillary supporters will never vote for him. At least I don't know any who will.

Cris in Texas   February 29th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

NO HE CAN"T

Janet, Missouri   February 29th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Well, the Clinton camp better be careful. With this new trial coming up and all of the lies she has told and the NUMEROUS times she has flip-flopped on her positions during this campaign, she won't be able to blame it on George Bush as she has done for the entire primary season.

robert, san francisco   February 29th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

Wolfe,
I did not know that you were the Clintons, and even if you are please keep it to you yourself, since your personal feelings have nothing to do with the CNN political reps. As for Obama, just do not! worry yourself about him, and simply report the news. We the people will make sure that he will get to where he needs to go. We want him, and we will make sure that when strength is required, to give him the strength to continue.

Andy   February 29th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

Bush served 2 terms people. It will not be easy for ANYONE to beat McCain/Rove. Also, this has been a really bad week for Obama. The media is covering each equally now and momentum is shifting to Clinton.

Joyce   February 29th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

He will be torn apart. There are too may skeletons in his closet.
There is a LOT of things that could have been used by other campaigns on him, but they were not.. For instance the picture of him the the tribal outfit (his camp i believe released that), could have been much worse, it could have been him with a microphone standing behind the Kenyan opposition leader, who claims to be his cousin and is a blood relation. This 'cousin 'is a strict muslim and there have been bloody battle in Kenya. Remember Barak also called him from his campaign. His ties to Islam WILL NOT GO AWAY. His record of 'change' will be fully examined and found to be false. More people already trust McCain. Even the Chicago newspapers have said that Obama's actions to no match his rhetoric. His is a typical washington politician.

Mc Cain wins in a landside. With this DEMOCRATS vote.

Trev   February 29th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

I am sorry, but I don't think he can. Many of the GOP/independent voters who are going for Obama now are doing it because the GOP nomination is decided. I recognize that Obama has done well among independents for awhile now. However, if you look at the internals of the Texas polls (see realclearpolitics.com and the Fox poll for one example) you will find that Obama supporters are now happier with Clinton than Clinton supporters are with Obama. That, not matter how you spin it, is bad news for Obama in the general election.

As for the "Clinton Machine" argument, the protective bubble around Obama (you know the one created by CNN and MSNBC). That will pop when (and if) there is no longer any Democratic opposition. Independents will be free to vote their preference and Obama will lose.

tina   February 29th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

i guess this is cnn's idea of pleasing the people who have been whining about the bias against hilary. it's nonsense. if he can withstand the clinton machine he can withstand the republicans. i would rather obama in office over any of the otehr 2 candidates.

Oh and by the way… when the call was placed hilary you gave the wrong answer.
obama '08

former democratic voter   February 29th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

Hello,

I am a democrat who voted for Sen. Obama on Feb. 5th, before reasearching him completly, if Sen. Clinton does not win the nomination, the repulican party can count on my vote. This media has handled Obama with kid gloves…..as for the Iraq vote …HE WAS NOT IN THE SENATE!!!!!!!!!!

And foriegn policy does not just involve IRAQ, during the debate, when asked about the Russian election/transition, he looked at Sen. Clinton "RUH OH"…it requires a world view

I DO NOT LIKE BUSH AND DID NOT VOTE FOR HIM, but I will vote for Mccain should Clinton not be the nominee….. I WILL NOT BE HOODWINKED AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ED   February 29th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Can america ever believe the media anymore CNN and MSNBC has brought the once highly respected , world renowned , [sic ]reliable ,honorable world events to a new low with it's biased favoritism and attempt to sway an election that has reached a new low.

pacificaharry   February 29th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

For those of you who think weathering a Hillary storm is more difficult than a general election republican one, you're naive. I'm a rightie and cant wait for Obama. Keep in mind Hillary really couldn't question his lefty politics because she tries to tack left of him. But when my side frames him and he can't get out of it by his eloquent speaking, he's going to look silly. In the end, he may still win because the wind is blowing the dems way right now but he will soon be a tarnished penny. McCain is not going to go all low blow on him, but he won't win any Iraq debate with a man of McCains stature, who by the way just had one son serve one year in Iraq with another at the Naval academy. He wont win an economic debate by talking about raising taxes on those making more than $75,000, decrying NAFTA, and by increasing govt spending to levels far beyond today (even considering some ficticious peace dividend if he were to actually withdraw troops from Iraq). In the end, taxing of the so called "rich", drives jobs downward, so its kind of hard to grow jobs while the people who create them stop investing their money. It's a complex world and Obama's simplistic approach will be excoriated. It will be fun to see.

Andy   February 29th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

An experienced and vetted War Hero like McCain up against Obama?

McCain is a GIANT.

I am not for McCain, but the situation in Iraq will continue to improve between now and November.

Also, Obama doesn't have a Karl Rove.

Rove will use Obama's greatest talents and strengths and use them against him.

It's a shame Obama is shooting for the VP slot, I honestly think we would have a Democratic President for the next 16 years.

I like Obama, I really do. But you can't be a rookie and beat McCain.

James ( Independent )   February 29th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

Obama has shown that he has the best campaign in political history , he will spank McCain and send him home , as he shows the GOP to be the fools they are.

SAM - CommonSense   February 29th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Shame on anyone who desregards the intelligence of the American VOTER! YES WE CAN! The Obama campaign is for the American people… Not another Bush nor Clinton dynasty! Watch us take our country back from the war mongers and coperate Queen!

Vote OBAMA 08!

MD Democrat   February 29th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

HECK NO!!! The GOP will tear his butt to shreds. That's why they are buying/manipulating the media (CNN included) for Obama, in order to have a chance to in the general election. They know that they can't beat Hillary.

Anonymous   February 29th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

No he can not withstand the GOP. His fancy speeches will not cut it. I'm not confident he could do the job. If he is nominated I will have to vote for Mccain. Gop or democrat, we need someone who can do the job.

Independent-Latina-voter, Salt Lake City, UT   February 29th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

I believe that Republicans want Hillary to be the nominee. I suspect that the attacks of Sen. Obama are about derailing his campaign so they can have what they have always wanted.

The RNC can't wait to get a hold of HRC!

Sen. Obama may only have a few years in the Senate, BUT that's precisely why this Independent voter likes him! He hasn't sold his soul to the DC-devils yet.

McCain's a great guy. But W. blew it for the Republicans, the country wants change.

Darth HUSSEIN Vadik, CA   February 29th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

If the GOP trully thinks they can beat him,

WHY ARE THEY PANICKING SO MUCH?

They are having study groups on how racist they can go,
they keep mentioning his middlename and calling him Osama to subtly connect him to the radical muslims.
How low will they go, I'm afraid to say way lower than Hillary, but watch, you'll see how strong Obama is when he wipes the floor with McCain and the GOP anyway.

"LOOK ITS THE SYMBOL OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, AN ELEPHANT AND AN OLD MAN WHO'S AFFRAID OF CHANGE." - Family Guy (Fox TV)

Matt   February 29th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

With a tanking economy and a failed policy in Iraq, McCain should be the one bracing for more criticism.

Bob   February 29th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

The GOP is their own worst enemy! In the aftermath of Bush / Cheney Alfred E Neuman could win the presidency if he were a democrat. Aside from that,, McCain's love of continuing a war for which Americans have no desire, is his guarantee of failure. That's how out of touch he and his GOP pals are.

Where's Alfred E when you need him?

st louis   February 29th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

I can not wait for McCain and Obama. This is going to be good. How old is McCain again?

kevin   February 29th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

The choice is clear to me. The repubs have done nothing but attempt to avoid scnadal for 8 years. Corporate intrests..big tax breaks to oil..tax cuts to the rich…giving up our freedoms to cave dwellers..fighting the wrong war in the wrong place..opening up our borders to save the economy..GW IS THE WORST EVER. Time for real change, hope and promise…Obama wants the people to take charge again…God bless America…we need his leadership. NOW!

hms   February 29th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

Obama is where he is because of the media.. they killed Hillary..

But with republicans having their own media (FOX), he doesn't stand a chance.

he has already made so many blunders… On Iraq he says he will withdraw within an year and in last week's debate he said that he will attack if Al qaeda is there.

On NAFTA, he said he will renegotiate and then there is news that his campaign called Canadians.to take back his comments..

Republicans will raise all these issues.

Peter   February 29th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Of course he can. His friends at CNN and MSNBC will protect him.

Joan   February 29th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

In his first major public address since a cancer crisis, Nation of Islam Minister Louis Farrakhan said Sunday that presidential candidate Barack Obama is the "hope of the entire world" that the U.S. will change for the better.

Joan   February 29th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

The people voting for Mr. Obama are mainly: (1) republicans who are intentionally throwing a monkey wrench into the works by crossing over in primaries to vote for the one candidate they know McCain can beat in November (2) young white liberals who want to think that America is no longer a racist nation and (3) blacks who have been caught up in a religious fervor for a black messiah. Unfortunately, if Mr. Obama gets the nomination, the democrats will lose all fifty states to McCain and there won't be any talk about another black person on any presidential ticket in the future. Whites are not about to turn this nation over to be run by a black person, no matter who he or she is (even Condi Rice, Colin Powell or Uncle Clarence Thomas could not be elected president). Democrats had better get behind Hillary before it's too late or we will see this nation go so far backward it will make your head spin. WAKE UP!!!!

Penelope   February 29th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

No, he won't. If Obama smears McCain he will be rejected, we are at war and won't tolerate disrespect to our present or past soldiers.

As for Iraq, if Colin Powell believed the intel, why are we so down on anyone else that did? I was skeptical about Bush but when General Powell said we needed to go, I said, okay, it must be true. So if Gen'l Powell was tricked and betrayed, why do we find it surprising that Clinton or McCain was? Or does Barack see himself as superior to Gen'l Powell? Gen'l Powell had a HUGE role in getting that vote-but Barack skips that part. I still admire and respect Gen'l Powell more than I ever will Senator Obama, unless he proves himself fair and square. Even JFK made mistakes (hello, Bay of PIgs?) In the case of nuclear weapons, it's better to err on the side of US safety. Bush rushed to war, not letting the UN finish.

John Kerry voted for the war, but Obama seems to think he has great judgement in his endorsement of Obama.

And, don't forget, every time he condemns the war he disrespects the soldiers who have served and continue to serve, even if he sandwiches his criticisms with praise, like he always does, which pisses off a LOT of people, me included. Shut up and talk about what to do now, enough armchair quarterbacking. If he thinks he won't make mistakes, he's really dangerous.

minedigger   February 29th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

NO

James   February 29th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

I said from the very beginning that Obama will NOT withstand Republican attacks. He is just a kid. He CANNOT beat McCain, especially with all of McCain’s experience. All Obama says is that he was against the war from the very beginning. Well Obama wasn’t even in the U.S. Senate at the time they voted. He had no say whatsoever. Obama cannot use that anti-war stance the whole time he running for president. It won’t work.

S. Wright   February 29th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Neither Hillary, nor Obama can attack each other the way McCain and the Republicans will attack the eventual Democrat nominee.

Today, Obama states that 9/11 can no longer be a political issue, and that it is just a scare tactic to garner votes.

Mr. Obama, if you truly believe that 9/11 can be magically wiped away from the memories of the American people, and that that event won't mean much in terms of future foreign policy, then you sir, have inhaled way too much helium.

suzy   February 29th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

TO INDY PENDANT
She walks a very thin line in trying to "chew him up", but I have no doubt that she could, and be victorious. BUT,
in case you haven't been watching the news lately,if she even looks at him wrong the media and the Obama camp call it an attack….
talk about "whining"….
I have been told by a few people that I trust that some Independents and Rep. have been voting Obama (in the states where they can participate in the primary), but never plan on voting for him in Nov. I have heard this more than once. It's a set up…….it may be dirty politics (actually seems borderline "illegal" to me), but……
They will chew him up, no doubt.
Hillary can take, no doubt about that.
she is tough, she is a fighter, and she just keeps going and going and going…..

Boomer   February 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

How can a party that has spent countless billions on a stupid war while ignoring the needs of Americans make mincemeat out of ANYBODY?? Obama is a far better debater than McCain. It's time for a change after eight years of Republican incompetance. Hillary is too polarizing a figure. Obama is new and fresh and has better judgement than McCain. When people realize that, with McCain, they will get eight more years of Bush, they will flock to Obama. McCain equals fear. Obama equals hope. I'm not afraid.

Barack Oprah   February 29th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

He will cry and MAMA OPRAH will help him.

Matthew   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

By the way- Stacey Clark- Fact check yourself. Other people in this forum are agreeing with you, and you put Iowa, as the state…

That's scary.

L L FLORIDA   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

NO WAY JOSE! THE REPUBLICANS WILL RIP HIM APART. OBAMA HAS TOO MANY SCANDALS IN THE CLOSET. GO HILLARY!

sivananthi   February 29th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Media has created a bad picture of Hillary Clinton to the public and when Hillary Clinton attacks Obama they feel sorry for him.
But when Mccain starts attacking Obama in the future the people will start listening to the facts and Obama won^t stand a chance .!!!!!!!!!!!

James CA   February 29th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Mind you this may be the year of the 'Democrat Machine', we're generating all the money now. McCain has a past full of dirty secrets. Why does no one question the attacks that will be directed at him. The NYT article against McCain is just the start.

pmac   February 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Chevy- - -He was born to naturalized American Citizens- -
It doesn't matter if he was born in an outhouse in the middle of
the outback- -He is an American Citizen and allowed to run to be
President of The United States (and lose) Go Dems!!!!!!!

Pedrito   February 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Very simple, if Obama is the D/nominee we will vote for Senator McCain in November. Obama is full of himself.

TEXAS LOVES YOU HILLARY!

Karen   February 29th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

I'm not at all concerned about Obama withstanding bullying from McCain. I'm more concerned about Hillary not being able to withstand (that is, IGNORE) taunts and bullying from world leaders and terrorists. It's already clear from her foreign policy stance that she's going to be constantly worried about appearing weak. She's committed to the same old macho arrogant approach to global tension that is making us less safe every day. It's a shame, I had hoped for better from a woman. I'm so proud of Obama's attitude/approach and I hope he'll just let McCain keep displaying his personal obsession with "winning" a war that is a disgrace to our country. There are other ways of showing our support for the people of Iraq that are more focused on them and less on our own national pride. So let's show a little more concern over who can bring out the best in us (Americans) in the eyes of the rest of the world, not who can sling the most mud back at the Republicans. If McCain gets nasty (and he already is), he'll lose the one thing that might draw Clinton-hating non-Republicans to him - a sense of honesty/decency. If he's running against Obama, he's never had access to those votes, so they are already lost.

Ben, New York, NY   February 29th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Shut up, Wolf. No amount of advertising spending could rival what you've done for Hillary in this election.

Matthew   February 29th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

McCain's biggest worry is the Conservatives. There's not a chance in Hel* that Obama can get those Conservatives. If he's the Democratic front runner, with Nader in the race, the presidential election gets a little worrysome for the Democrats. I like the three front runners right now. McCain, Hillary, and Obama. I feel, though, that Obama doesn't have a chance against McCain. Hillary vs. McCain would be a better fight.

Uncle Sam   February 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

A better question is, can Wolf Blitzer withstand a Clinton defeat.? Will they put him on suicide watch? Will he ever be able to recover? Will he ever be the same??

Jill   February 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

you would not expect a 6 year old to be good at calculus
you cannot expect a 2 year senator to be a good president

I will vote for McCain if Hilliary doesn't get the nod. sorry guys, but i will not put another inexperienced man in the white house.

Ron Saywack   February 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

I wish to comment on that ad Hillary is running in Texas.

So, if she is the president and she receives a call at 3 am. What the hell is she insinuating here? Is she expecting the terrorist to give her advance notice of an impending attack so she can then decide to take peemptive action?

The question is not about receiving that call at 3 am; it is what you do afterward that matters, because, presumably, it will have been too late to prevent anyting by then. Therefore, her last-ditch, desperation fear-mongering tactics won't wash.

It must also be noted that the 9/11 terrorists were in the country when Bill was president, enrollled in flight schools and planned their evil deeds while Bill remained totally oblivious to it. So, what's her point?

She showed extremely poor judgment in that October 2002 vote and thus defeats her argument.

Sincerely,

Ron Saywack

Rich Orl, FL   February 29th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Simple answer: Yes. Obama will have the American people behind him to withstand the nonsense that the GOP has created over the past eight years. I would add Hillary has similar support.

Manuel TX   February 29th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Eddie,

It sound like you're voting personality.

Nancy S -Long Beach, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Yes, the Republicans will throw the kitchen sink at Obama, but if it was only about Obama's performance in the Senate or his decades of experience he would not have even made it this far to speculate on his ability withstand the attacks. I think he's already doing it. Leadership, and the special ability to inspire are major factors in selecting a president. McCain doesn't have it, and Hillary doesn't have it - at least compared to Obama. Barack Obama has a special quality beyond the resume stuff that makes him more able to withstand opposition and negativity for either Democratic or Republicans rivals.

Interesting   February 29th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Yes We Can/Si Se Puede

Obama/Sebilieus 08

E. Omega Cantu   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

O.K. listening to Mr. Obama, his response to the new Senator Hillary's ad running in Texas was; "The phone has already rung". Well, if it has rung, and therefore she voted to protect us, why didn't he? The information given to so many of the members of Congress and newsroom 'pundits', received the same info. Had she voted against attaching Irag, we should be hearing, the "Why didn't she vote to protect us?" You can't have it both ways, Mr. Obama.

Therefore, I'm more than sure Senator Hillary Clinton would do the right thing!! That's only one reason I have voted for Senator Clinton.

JD White California   February 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

This time something different and new is what it all about, the new verse the past. This time a change is what we need, we need this time to be about America and Americans. Obama is just that something fresh, new and different.

Darth HUSSEIN Vadik, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

If the GOP trully thinks they can beat him,

WHY ARE THEY PANICKING SO MUCH?

Ed Hershey, San Diego, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Wolf,

You left out the Obama's arguments. Correction, please?

CT   February 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

no.

Larry   February 29th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Is CNN really just trying to overcome HRC's "the media don't like me" rhetoric? Do you think that the RNC doesn't have a trunk load of material on HRC? All you have to do is go down to the local book store and you'll see a dozen current titles, all going after Hillary or Bill or both. Mark Penn as a source is kind of shady don't you think? Sort of like having Paula Begala always on the air singing her praises.

2Smart4Mediabias   February 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

He is clueless like "W". The media will shine the light on him and it will all be over. No more free rides from the media. All his "advisors" and "followers" will disappear like smoke. I hope Texas and Ohio realize this. Look at how tuff they have been on Hillary and yet she still standing with her head up. Every time BO is attacked he cries and snubs! His reactions are childish. HE COPIES HILLARY'S RESPONSES ON ALL DEBATES. The man has NO plans to do anything. Will they write a speech when it's time to solve problems.

His response to "What would you do when you enter the Oval Office for the first time? His answer "I would kick my feet up and say WOW!"

Don't we have that kind of President already?? Arrogant and clueless??

The media will not choose my President again!!! Anyone with me??

Marla   February 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

It is sad to see the wave taking so many innocent minds. I am a registered Republican who has voted democratic in the last 3 presidential elections. This was based on my research of the candidates and their records, all extensive. As much as I want to continue my dedication to the values and principles of the democratic party, I cannot in good conscience vote for a person who has spent the last decade campaigning, no wonder he is very good at it. He has not made a single significant contribution to the greater good of this country. He has had an opportunity over the last 2 years to make some difference and he has been too busy campaigning. WAKE UP AMERICA! This is not an American Idol contest.

Janet   February 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Wolf Wolf Wolf -
I watch CNN religiously and all I keep hearing everyone say is that "Obama made the right call the first time and voted against the war."
He wasn't even a senator when the 1st vote to go to war was made, so, he can't say he voted against the war. He never had an opportunity to vote for or against it. So, please let the viewers know this. I think quite a few people think he was in on the initial vote to go to war. I personally don't wish we were there, but we are, and we have to find the best solution. Thanks.
Janet from LV

John   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Thanks Blitzer for the Ballot bowl and situation rooms full day of continuous advertising for the Clinton campaign. Its about time for some balanced reporting or have your so called best political team joined Hillary's staff. screw you Obama will still win

OBAMA 08   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

This question by its very nature is biased and a sad reality of the American political system. First, John McCain is extremely vulnerable in a whole host of issues…Can he withstand the attacks?: The media is flaming controversy before it exists because it is good for the bottom line. This is no longer a political campaign about issues, but a reality tv show showing the ugly, divisive side of this country on all levels and shows why Americans are in the state they are in.

Obama can do something about that; the wide range of support from respected leaders etc shows that, but I fear that the ugliness of America which worries about middle names, who is next in line, wearing a lapel pin…instead of corruption, poverty, corporate greed, the cost of war will prevent that from happening.

Perhaps we deserve McCain or Clinton!!

Kwaku, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

This presuposses that no Democrat can win against the Republicans because of the latter's dirty tactics, nd the medium becomes a willing enabler. What a stupid argument. The American electorate can demnostrate that they're more intelligent than that. Democrats only lose when the electorate becomes dumb and falls for stupid non-issues and fear-mongering, dirty tricks from Republicans. Have a mind and think for yourself, people!

Isaac   February 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

This is a fair article, and while I fear these rising questions are already too late, I hope they are not. Barack Obama will be torn to shreds in the General Election. It surprises me that so few people see this.

earl illingsworth   February 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Clinton's absolutely the correct candidate to nominate,Mr.(Fluff) Obama wouldn't stand a chance against the Hammer,Rove(Six months to create Strategy ),Newt, Rupert and that ultra conservative Novak who'll surely come out of retirement. But ,Hillary is a different fish to fry? Even if you can get the bait , you'll never gaf her Mr. Mattews! I'm for the right side of experience, and that's Hillary!!! Dare you guys to Post?

Grif   February 29th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

I'll send to you. The Song Hillary should use But as usual, the comment will disapear as soon as it;s submitted.

Song!! They Gave me Mountain By Elvis!!!

Dave UK   February 29th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Get real! Obama brings a new look to America in many ways. It will take a long time for Clinton to abandon the First Lady mentality to being a President. The evidence is there we all hear this in her speeches.

Renee   February 29th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

He shouldn't worry about the GOP the problems are right in his own party. A bunch of selfish white racist that would vote for McCain if Hillary doesn't win. I don't think Hillary will be to blame for what her supporters do to the democratic party. They are more to blame for turning the rest of us against hillary with their racist comments about Obama you all are only about self and are deliberately out to destroy the democratic party if Hillary wins you all expect the rest of us to ignore your racist feelings and comments and support her anyway. I may not support Hillary but I sure as hell do not want to see an end to the democratic party. So go right ahead and cast your vote for McCain and make yourselfs feel good and to hell with the democratic party since your minds are made up not to support your party's candidate. I have voted every presidental election for people I did not want to vote for but they had one thing going for them they represented my party not someone else's

Zeena   February 29th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

It is NOT about Obama…it is about me….I am the one who is paying for Gas and food…And it is all because of GOP's stupid decision to go to Iraq..

YES- I AM READY TO BEAT GOP…

Go Obama…i am with you…

eddie, New York City.   February 29th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

The Politics of doubts. When both Clinton and Obama announced their candidacy — Clinton was at 40+ and Obama was 17+. After a year of campaign — Obama is now at 48+ and Clinton Gaining only one point, giving her 41+. It's sad when I hear some of Clinton supporter saying they will vote McCain if Obama wins the Nomination. I wonder if they ask them self why? are they voting the issues facing the nation and where the candidates stands? or are they simply voting the person?

Obama successfully stood against the Clinton Machine when people doubted that he could. Now is the GOP, see what happens when he secures the nominations. You gotta love Obama! But what do I know? I'm a 65 yrs. Old republican turn independent in the Blogging room.

kab   February 29th, 2008 6:07 pm ET

What kind of stupid question is it..it is tough for Obama to beat Hillary coz both of them have similar policies…it will be easier for him to beat McCain..

dorrett   February 29th, 2008 6:07 pm ET

Wolfe, you are missing the point. Anybody the Dems put up to run against the GOP will win. What makes you think that the GOP will not do worse to Clinton than what they would do to Obama? I am sure if the Clintons had anything to sink Obama candidacy, they would have used it. The Dems must fight and the media must ensure that the GOP smear machine do not twist Obama’s record to create the GOP identity of Obama to the voters. Dems, do not forget the Swift boat tactics and stop the bickering and unite to take back your country.

beckstone   February 29th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

Clinton's negatives poll higher then her supporters. She couldn't win an uncontested election.

Wilfrid Florestant   February 29th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

As long as Hillary cannot release her financial records, she is not worthy of any nomination; we should not trust her with that type of shady behavior.

tc   February 29th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

First we have to see who gets the nomination! If it is Obama, I think he will do just fine. People should be ready for a change instead of politics as usually. Just because you have been doing things the same wrong way for years doesn't mean your way the best way!

eddie, New York City.   February 29th, 2008 6:05 pm ET

The Politics of doubts. When both Clinton and Obama announced their candidacy — Clinton was at 40+ and Obama was 17+. After a year of campaign — Obama is now at 48+ and Clinton Gaining only one point, giving her 41+. It's sad when I hear some of Clinton supporter saying they will vote McCain if Obama wins the Nomination. I wonder if they ask them self why? are they voting the issues facing the nation and where the candidates stands? or are they simply voting the person?

Obama successfully stood against the Clinton Machine when people doubted that he could. Now is the GOP, see what happens when he secures the nominations. You gotta love Obama! But what do I do? I'm a 65 yrs. Old republican turn independent in the Blogging room.

LadyLeo   February 29th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Since the GOP political background is just as dirty and foul as Hillarys,
Yes He can.
He and all his supporters. Go Obama.

Ovitshio Branco   February 29th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

: You know what would be a good idea - producing a program once a month entitled - “American History Night”. Keith Olbermann would be ideal as host.

People in this country haven’t a clue. Sean Hannity, Bill O’Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck, Bill Cunningham, Ann Coulter, Wolf Blitzer and their ilk. What’s dangerous is the following they have. From what I read on these threads, I can’t believe how ignorant people are in this country. What happened?

Last night, Sean Hannity reminded me of the Judge in Berlin in 1944 when he tore into defendants who were accused of trying to kill Hitler. They never had a chance to answer the accusations.

Sean Hannity, just what is your problem? Barack Obama has distanced himself from Louis Farrakhan. Your guest told you that 15 times last night. Weren’t you listening? No, of course not.

Let’s be clear here - Louis Farrakhan is not running for president. Barack Obama’s church leader is not running for president.

Your bigotry and hatred is showing Sean. It was on full display last night. Congratulations.

alfa2   February 29th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Obama has already proven that he can withstand HRC attacks. McCain is too old to be our president. As many experts have written America does not need experience what it needs is proper judgment to made decisions. HRC does not have one. Even all media praising HRC as a great candidate due to her negative campaigning she is losing. HRC spin machine is one of the worst I have seen in recent times. It is worse that Karl Rove and company. We have long way to go for November election and Obama will do very well against this old straight talk spining express who has no courage to say it was a mistake to go to war with Iraq.

Jazz   February 29th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Political correctness is not the republican machine's forte!!
Karl Rove has already spoken of being able to make mince meat of his liberal positions.

MCNEIL   February 29th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

A BIG NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. VOTE HILARY …………

Jude   February 29th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

Lets stay focus on the issues…why shoudl Obama be scared of "the big bad republicans"…hahahaha…remember what Obama said…we should only fear…fear itself. Bring it on…you big bad republicans…Its David versus Goliath…and yes…David (Obama) will win again…hahaha…"Yes We Can"!!! Obama 08!

Cindy   February 29th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

Obama's a breath of fresh air. McCain and the RNC have already started denouncing some of the offensive fringes in their party.

Clinton raises the attacks, Obama breaks them down. I don't see them stopping completely, but I do think there will be less of it than normal.

I hope Obama and McCain can figure out an agreement to end the Swift Boat type campaigns.

Patrick   February 29th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

As a Democrat living in an overwhelmingly Republican Conservative Right Wing state…I laugh in Hillary Clinton's and Mark Penn's face if they think they've experienced even 1/10 of 1% of the Republican arsenal. Republicans have been building an army of negative Clinton talking-points since 2000. Hillary Clinton is DESPISED by the Republicans, disliked by Independents, and increasingly losing the good graces of nearly half of the Democrats.

This notion that Hillary Clinton has already withstood the Republican Attack Machine is absolutely ridiculous. When did this happen? In her Senate campaign for … NEW YORK? Anyone who believes this is easily fooled.

Brent   February 29th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Some of you are so misguided. If you think a person with so little experience can be the leader of the free world, think again. Obama has no chance in beating the GOP and one can never tell what he stands for.

Obama comes acorss as 'iffy' at best and if thats what we're going to get on foreign policy, the little respect and standing we have in the world after the eight year Bush fiasco is egg on our faces.

I'm not the biggest fan of Hillary either but I do believe she can indeed run this country around.

akaDoug   February 29th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Obama will have no problem with McCain, show those 2 together and the country will have a clear picture… Past vs. Future!

Better match-up than McCain vs. Shrillary. Past vs. Past on that one. Maybe those two could have a debate about who has the more shady past or who is the most corrupt or who has the most violent temper!

Obama will capture the Obama-cians and the Independents that are sick of the way Bush has lead this country into the gutter!

Obama = better judgement on day one!

donika shena bako   February 29th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Good evening Mr.Blitzer! With all the respect , thank you for the fair job you are doing. Only you are the dream team coverage this primeries.I dont know very well to speak and write but I know how to love America and people who respect and love America too!!

Michael, Cleveland   February 29th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

No he can't. As for Hillary - please tell me WHY should she rush to release her tax return (which isn't even ready yet)? Because Obama wants it? It is not required by law and he didn't release his.

glhf   February 29th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Ironically Hillary's attacks in New Hamsphire gave a cover on Obama's most extreme positions. He'll be able to withstand the GOP attacks but only because the voters will be confused by them when they are the complete opposite of Hillary's. So yes he will.

JohnS   February 29th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Meet me in Texas! Meet me in Ohio!!

I thought these 2 states have been the firewalls for Hillary and her supporters. So, what is going on here, I just don't get it?

The way people with "common sense" sees this, you can cry, yell, and scream all you can, if Hillary does not WIN these 2 states with large numbers (I mean very large numbers), this thing is over.

So, Hillary supporters need to be careful not to destroy the Dem enthusiam any further. Any tool of attack by a Dem will later be used by the Republicans.

JohnS   February 29th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

I do not get this–

If Obama can win so much over Hillary, beat Hillary at her game, how can Hillary be better than Obama in facing any Republican?

I guess this is just another way of exciting the bloggers.

I endorse Stacey Cleark's comments above. If you did not read it, please do so.

Mark V.   February 29th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

Hillary, ifnominated, will not have a chance "to withstand" the Repubican attacks. That battle is already over. The Republicans hate her so much they don't have to make a lot of effort to paint her in the worst light. All the talk about Obama's vulnerability is just talk, based on speculations.

Martin (Bolivia)   February 29th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Who knows what fresh skeletons will be found in Hillary's closet. We could judge better if she released her tax return and her White House files that she claims (falsely as it appears) the WH is withholding. Why so cagey. Transparency is harder to attack.

Come out, Hillary, show everybody what you've got.

scott c   February 29th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Don't these guys get it. Obama is as cool as a cucumber and has a vision for tomorrow. He will play ball with the Repulicans and win because he doesn,t have 20 years of fat cat living in Washington like Mccain. OBAMA is a heavy favorite because he is positive,fresh,smart,and can bring people together in a calming and trusting way.Mccain represents the same "old" under the table policy that we as average Americans can not stand anymore-we have had it!!!!-let's take a clean warm shower to wash away the dirt.

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   February 29th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

Nope. The Repellicans will make him wish he had stayed at Harvard Law or U Chicago on the faculty. He is not a litigator and too much of a lightweight to take the heat.

Austin, Texas   February 29th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

Some of you people are a bit oblivious to the actual facts.

Fact: McCain pulls from Independent/right wing Democrats.
Fact: Obama pulls from same pool
Fact: McCain will bring out Obama's liberalism which will sway the independent/right wing Democrats to McCain's vote.
Fact: A majority of Clinton supporters will back McCain due to experience being their top idea in choosing a president. They will not vote for Obama based on his inexperience.
Fact: McCain will eat Obama up on his foreign affairs policies. The meetings and his outlook on Iraq will be frowned upon.
Fact: McCain will snatch a large amount of latino vote from the once Clinton supported Demographic.

Noone takes into account these things. They look at the polls and say O He'll do just fine. Obama will not convert the red states, and will not turn the swing states (like Florida who probably won't even show up to vote for him due to the DNC voiding their votes in the primary).

Obama will lose the General Election. Obama Supporters just don't want to understand that.

hawkeyy   February 29th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

barack will bury the republican pundits…this fom a life long republican…well almost

steve   February 29th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Post my comments CNN

Go Obama   February 29th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

The question should be phrased, "Can the GOP answer to everything Obama will throw at them?"
I have no doubt in my mind that the American people are ready for Change We Can Believe In!!!

Cameron   February 29th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

So the mere possibility that Obama might have a skeleton in the closet we haven't found yet is evidence he isn't electable, compared to Hillary who has so many skeletons that the Republicans won't even have to work very hard?

Corinna   February 29th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Yes, listening to many in the GOP I have noticed they don't have a real understanding about why so many people are willing to believe in Barack Obama.

Stephen   February 29th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

He is nothing but an amateur, an Obamateur if you will

Darth Vadik, CA   February 29th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

If he can trounce the Clintons, he wil wipe the floor with the GOP.

Scott in Boston   February 29th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

I think there's been a slight shift over the past 48 hours from Obama to Hillary. It seems as though the big question, "who is better qualifed to handle the job on day one?" is giving people pause. If that's truly the case and not just a feeling, then Hillary wins Ohio, Texas, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and the nomination. That's my bet.

Mike   February 29th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

McCain will be carrying the baggage and legacy of Geeorge W. Bush around with him during this campaign. That will be more than enought to keep him busy and up at night trying to present a positive and workable message to the American public. Obama will probably stand up fine whenever the shadow of the last 8 years continuously haunts the McCain Team.

Mike
Alabama

Rowena   February 29th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Of course he can. Hill