February 29, 2008
Posted: 09:05 PM ET
 Clinton is getting tough on Obama over national security issues.
Clinton is getting tough on Obama over national security issues.

WACO, Texas (CNN) — Hillary Clinton attempted to raise the stakes of the upcoming March 4 primaries Friday by forcefully calling into question Barack Obama's qualifications to become commander-in-chief.

At a rally in Waco, with more than two dozen military veterans and flag officers standing behind her, Clinton criticized Obama for being "missing in action" during key security decisions in the Senate and claimed that he had "no responsibility" when he gave an anti-war speech in 2002 as an Illinois state senator.

Her comments coincided with a new campaign ad released in Texas that asks voters who they want to answer the phone in the White House at 3 a.m. when "there's something happening in the world."

Obama criticized the ad earlier Friday, saying it was an attempt to "scare up votes."

Clinton disputed that notion in her speech Friday, saying, "Well I don't think people in Texas scare all that easily."

In a salvo against Obama that lasted several minutes, Clinton said, "There's a big difference between giving a speech at anti war rally as a state senator and dealing with an international crisis as president."

"There's a difference between giving a speech when you have no responsibility," she argued, "and having to step up and take charge and take the responsibility for your actions."

She charged that Obama was "missing in action" when he missed a Senate vote last year on a nonbinding resolution in that labeled the Iranian Revolutionary Guard a terrorist organization (Clinton voted for the measure and faced heat from Obama and other Democratic rivals for supporting a measure pushed by the Bush administration.)

She also said Obama was "missing in action" by failing in his chairmanship of a Senate subcommittee on Europe to hold a hearing on NATO's presence in Afghanistan, a fact she has emphasized in recent days on the campaign trail.

Gen. Wesley Clark, a Clinton supporter and the former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO, plugged the TV ad while introducing Clinton on stage and suggested that her tenure as First Lady prepared her to be president.

"She's been in the White House when the tough decisions were made," Clark said, looking over to Clinton. "I guess you've been at the bedside when that phone rang at 3 a.m. in the morning."

Clinton was joined at the event by three generals, including Clark, and a Navy Rear Admiral.

– CNN Political Producer Peter Hamby

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Anne, Los Angeles   February 29th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

You go Hillary!!! Let's see how Senator Obama will play 'follow the leader'………….

Steve   February 29th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Hey Hillary? Where were you on the FISA vote?

LeftyLadig   February 29th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Get a grip Hillary…..you are going, going goooone.

Ovitshio Branco   February 29th, 2008 6:12 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 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.

Shame on you CNN.Shame on you Billary, i never ever had sexual relation with that Woman

Ovitshio Branco   February 29th, 2008 6:12 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 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.

Allison Marie   February 29th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

You go Hillary, we're for you! I'm voting for you!

rob   February 29th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Hillary has been missing in action since asked to produce her tax returns…

LadyLeo   February 29th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Well Hillary if you had answered the phone the last time it rang concerning the war the war would still exsit, If Obama had answered the phone there would be no war. You keep making the right decision after the fact.

Fuzzi   February 29th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

HILLARY IS A HORRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Byron in CA   February 29th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

GO HILLARY 2008 & 2012 it's easy to make speeches obama but when push came to shove, you decided not to show up. So I guess we can expect when the phone rigns at 3am we get an answering machine.

Rodney   February 29th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

Billary is at it again. They are so desperate to cling to power they will stop at nothing to achieve their sleazy aims. Enough of the Clintons. March 4th will be their swan song.

C from CT   February 29th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

GO HILLARY - HANG IN THERE GO HILLARY

mother too   February 29th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

smart lady. Intelligent lady. Lady for us.
Hillary 08!

robyn   February 29th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

I'm thrilled to see General Clark entering the political fray–I wanted to vote for him four years ago, and would love to see him as a vice president. Why? Because he gets the true nature of terrorism, and that the best way to fight terrorism is to fight poverty abroad (and not through armed combat).

Darth HUSSEIN Vadik, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

OK Hillary, this will work, God knows everything else you have done has worked,

whatever

sarah   February 29th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Hillary was right on the mark, when it came to judgement and following through, where was obama? He was voting for something he said he was against. obama is weak and again came out with an ad claiming his credentials are that he was against the war. But when it came to putting up, he shut up, this argument is old and boring and has no relevance. When has obama negotiated and was instrumental in resoluting peace, when has obama ever stood up for human rights in other countries, when has he held a sub-committee hearing that oversees Europe and Nato actions in Afghanistan? NEVER!

Jenny, Rio Vista, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Shame on you, Hilary Clinton.

hillarywins   February 29th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Obama says he was against the Iraq war but he was not in the US Senate and had no vote. He was not privy to the persuasive, dishonest intelligence that was presented to the Senators.

He's trying to use his opposition to the war as his credentials for being a good commander in chief. Sorry, but that won't fly. It's totally out of context. How would he have voted if he was in the Senate? We'll never know. Since being in the Senate he has voted with the majority of Democrats on Iraq.

He's too busy running for President now, in his 3rd year in national politics, to hold any hearings of his committee that impacts US foreign policy in Afghanistan- where he thinks we should have gone instead of Iraq! Well , that's just going to have to wait, he's busy with his own career.

Slow down, Obama. What's your hurry? You need more life experience and the American people need to kinow who and what you are before you make a very big mess of this country.

Obama's ego, rhetoric and ambition are no substitution for the real world experience and intelligence that Hillary Clinton will use to get this great country back on it's feet

J Davis   February 29th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

Bravo! Keep it up! Clinton should have been pointing out significant qualifications like these all along rather than pointing out what she and Obama have in common. On the important issues, she can do the job!

Cindy   February 29th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

omg… being at the bedside of the president does not give you experience. Just because we share the same bed, doesn't mean I'm now experienced to do my spouses job, and vice versa.

The things people say… this is just nutz!!

MN Woman   February 29th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

It never ceases to amaze me that so many Obama fans think he "voted" no on the war, when he wasn't even there. Maybe that's a fact he'd like to give to his supporters.

Any of you that think Obama detractors will vote for him to unify the party, should he get the nomination, are blowing smoke.

If it can't be Hillary, then it will be McCain for me. I trust him much more than I do baby boy.

CARMEN   February 29th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

I'm really sorry to see Hillary being tore up with far left radecals (loosers). Just because she is a female with a lot of experience. Obama with no experience, running the world is going to be a nightmare. with the media pushing for Obama to win, and making Hillary look bad, and not covering enough about Obama I can see the world go to hell, I would like to see the media tell the truth about Obama and all great experience, etc.. People are just not getting the truth in the media, people just don't know who this man really is, other then what they the media wants you to know. If you are smart, you would be voting for Hillary with some experience that could really make a change, and give american people real hope, and a really a vision. If not Hillary , then my vote will go for Mc Cain in the next election.

CarrieW   February 29th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

So much has been said about the value of experience versus that of judgment and depending on whose side you are one, one is better than the other. Though I do think that good judgment is vital for whoever becomes president, the element of experience can not and should not be ignored.

For me, judgment isn’t measured by how someone reacts in a single instance but how they tend to react in similar instances. If I see radical changes in reactions, I perceive that person to have poor judgment. What causes that poor judgment though? Many things feed into judgment and I believe a very important input to judgment is experience.

Take my nephew for example; he once told me that that he thought chocolate cake and ice cream was a great idea for dinner. His judgment, though sound to him, was lacking because he didn’t have the knowledge or experience to realize that chocolate cake and ice cream was completely inappropriate for dinner. He was 4 years at the time and now at 12 laughs at his judgment back then.

Having experience is certainly not a guarantee you won’t make mistakes but how strong can your judgment be without the experience to back it up? How confident can you be that you won’t regret your actions years down the road if you are unaware of the common traps and pitfalls awaiting you on whatever path you take. Experience gives a person that confidence and ability to see what others can’t.

I see both of our candidates as strong politicians and people who care a great deal for this country. I think both would be excellent presidents but right now we need someone that can pull us out of what 8 years of Bush has pushed us into. We need someone that can fight for us and will utilize every ounce of strength and energy to make things right. We also need someone that can be counted on to make the tough decisions and know that it’s the right thing to do, not just the popular thing.

Hillary Clinton has proven over and over again that she fits this need. She’s taken her lumps and come back stronger and smarter for it. I expect nothing less from our next president.

GO HILLARY!

Carl III   February 29th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

So basiclaly Hillary is going to run the Republican campaign for them? Thats sad.

I guess for her Hillary's agenda > Democratic agenda

OurTimeIsNow!   February 29th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

Okay,

I'm not against Hillary. However, I am sick of this BS. Why won't she run a fair campaign? The only reason she is bringing up irrelevant matters is because she knows that it's now or never. And simply because this is the last attempt by your failing campaign to beat Senator Obama….the result is never.

Have you ever heard the saying that God don't like ugly. Well, right now the ugly is Hillary. It's written all over her face…just like the day she shouted "Shame on you Barack Obama."

Yeah, Shame on you for uniting the country and proving what you can do before you've become president. Shame on you!

Obama 08′

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   February 29th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

When that Red Phone rings at 3 AM, I want someone with relevant executive experience, not a Senator who has never managed much more than their own ambitious campaign to impose their "Takes a Village" social agenda on us.

Shawn   February 29th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

yeah she was there and her HUSBAND had the experiance and so did bush and look where its gotten us…….

Ken, San Diego, CA   February 29th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

Finally…

Franky   February 29th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

I wonder who's life is more important……….."James Buchanan" or "Hillary Clintion" or "Ulysses S. Grant"????? I gotta say that's a tough question but it's an interesting one….

Terry   February 29th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

YOU GO GIRL!
OBAMA NOT READY ON DAY ONE, TWO OR THREE

Go Hillary
Texans for Hillary

BO = Bad for Oval Office

MSW   February 29th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

Go Hillary!!!

Maxine   February 29th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

I don't know why she is acting like this we all know the Clintons will buy their way into the WH…that is why Gore, Edwards, Richardson and the rest of the idots are letting her get a way with slamming Obama.

Clark should be careful of asking Ms. Clinton who was beside who in bed when the 3 a.m. calls come in…..

How negative are we going to let her go on this…..let's look at her record too. Oh and Ms. Clinton where are all those jobs for NY and where are your tax records and where are the WH papers and what about Nafta…..

She is running like a Carl Rove, Bush….will run lady and see what you get at the end. You won't have a country together it will be divided and the Republicans will win with old Johnny boy.

Jennifer   February 29th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

This game of dirty politics is getting so old.

tc   February 29th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

i can't wait until this nomination is over. it's starting to be a lot of name calling, finger pointing, mud sling, etc. we must realize after the nomination, we must unite the party!

Texasboo   February 29th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

Oh please Sybillary, you voted for the Iran campaign for war and skipped the FISA bill voting.

You have no business distorting anyone's record when your's isn't perfect. Why don't you disclose your tax records and stop deflecting? How about youshare with teh American people where that $300+ million dollars worth of earmarks gone

How about you stop using the fear card with your new campaign ad

TEXAS FOR OBAMA

Word_on_Street   February 29th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

Hillary was in White house when Bill was having fun… and she didnt know.. Then how was she aware or part of any decisions that was made during that period..

Talk about a commander in chief who doesnt even have a clue what happens in her household..Dang!! we are in for trouble….

Leeza   February 29th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

Pj for President!

Tim   February 29th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

Barack walks up to the mic…and says,

"If one candidate’s trying to scare you and the other one’s trying to get you to think, if one candidate’s appealing to your fears and the other one’s appealing to your hopes, you better vote for the person who wants you to think and hope."

Then says,

"Just so I don't get called a plagiarist, I want you to know those words aren't mine. They are the words of Bill Clinton.”

Yes…Bill Clinton’s words, said to a crowd in Philadelphia on October 25, 2004.

HA!

Seywhuh   February 29th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

Oh, so someone who speaks what he feels to be the truth, with no consequences to face or answer to, is somehow LESS honest than someone who just read the cliff notes of the Iraq report, and voted for the bill in the hopes that Bush wasn't the warmonger she thought he was?

Whatever.

And the comment from Wesley Clark - so I guess that means Mrs. Clark can lead the Fifth Fleet, because she slept in the same bed as the head of NATO?

NOT-O.

Mk   February 29th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

this is a curious statement for Hillary to be making.
I have been looking at her voting record for 2007.
I sure do see lots more NV's then I do yea's or nays.
Seems she has been quite busy on the campaign trail herself.
She might be termed "missing in action" too.
Don't take my word for it. Check the record yourself.

Brian   February 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

I'll tell you what's missing in action… a Hillary Clinton campaign strategy.

Anyone seriously considering voting for this person… ask yourself if you'd like to see the same kind of mismanaged, scattershot, hamfisted organization in the White House. Although, maybe if she screws up badly enough in her first hundred days, she can give the country a loan from her personal account.

Ready to lead on day one? Not from what I've seen.

Make the right choice America!

Obama '08!!!

sam   February 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

I am surprised why hilary clinton did not hammer these points forcefully in her earlier campaigns - to me it shows how weak obama is in taking a stand on some very very important issues. Is he not decisive? is he weak kneed? or is political expediency to achieve power? Baffles me how he is going to cope as a President of a great nation.But i am sure the voters of America are not going to let this happen.Bless America

Carol from CT   February 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

GO HILLARY

HILLARY for PRESIDENT 08

GO HILLARY

spend Obama - GO HILLARY

KeishaD   February 29th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Finally some news coverage from CNN on Hillary Clinton that isn't negative. Sheesh. Besides that I do appreciate this point that Obama's voting trail on key issues is virtually non-existant.

Eric S   February 29th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

The problem with Obama is that he has no record and achieved nothing as a senator. Why should we entrust him with the country?

VA   February 29th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

NICE TRY……..YOU MUST BE REAL SCARED…..YOU TRY THREOING DIRT AND THEN YOU TRY CHANGING THE RULES…WHAT NEXT….YOU ARE A NIGHTMARE.

Mr. C   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Clinton said "There's a big difference between giving a speech at anti war rally as a state senator and dealing with an international crisis as president."

I guess in that case, all the speeches clinton has given while she was first lady and a state senator is garbage also. Talk about critizing someone when you are no better. Hillary's do-and/or-say anything to destroy the Dem party, her rival, and to Win.

Willie   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

CNN!! PLEASE DO NOT DELETE THIS!!

Obama's time is coming to an end. People are getting tired of hearing your change speech over and over again. All they hear is Iraq Vote, Hope, and Change all over again. Obama has one general at his side while Clinton has lots of Generals, Veterans of Iraq War, and current soldiers who held command positions while in Iraq. Hillary is the only candidate who can make sure that America is safe through her years as a senator and her years while in the white house. Obama does not have what it takes to be the next president. If Obama wants to make change, he needs to start with changing things in the Senate which he cant even do, because he is too busy trying to be the next president. Obama is not ready to be Commander in Chief over me and my troops. He is a motivational speaker and thats it.

eyeingtenure   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Who cares?

STX   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Stick a fork in her butt and turn her over–she's done!

Zeena   February 29th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Bill Clinton said in 2004
" If one candidate brings hope and the other candidate brings fear- you should follow hope"
I am following what Clinton said…I am following Obama…

Mary   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Why wouldn't we want a candidate that has experience? Obama likes to act like he is always right, but a look at his record both in Illinois and his experience as a senator who's experience is running for president should let voters know his record is shakey. To shakey for all that is going on in the world today. I have nothing against hope and do hope for the future of our country. I just don't want to see the street of America paved with Fool's Gold.

sivananthi   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

The person who is missing in action cannot be blamed for the results…
BECAUSE HE IS WITHOUT MISTAKES…

OBAMA, NICE AND CLEVER STRATEGY…………………..

anna   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

It's this kind of tough and true leadership that shows how qualified Hillary is for Presidential office. I like seeing her fairly fight and point out the weaknesses that we all see in an Obama presidency. The media and Obama's own campaign behave as if he is beyond reproach on ANY subject. This is just plain false and all of his actions are fair game for review. Thanks Hillary, our Champion!

Boye   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

What is at question here is not responsibility or experience but judgment. Obama's argument here is that Hillary's first instinct with the Iraq war was support. Therefore, if Hillary was in Bush's shoes, she would have authorized the war also.

Tim   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Just look at that photo. She is pure evil…hopefully she won't off Obama like all those people on the list of the Clinton body count…how come the press doesn't report on that?

leah   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

just wait hillary. all this negativity will backfire as proven in the last 11 contests. go home to chappaqua!

OBAMA '08

wasforhillary   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

That's right she was in the white house when RWANDA happened. Who answered the phone then?

Vince - Phoenix   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

never thought i'd see more spin than Hurricane Katrina….

HURRICANE HILLARY makes Katrina look lika a spring shower….

AJ   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Let's question Hillary's qualifications. All she wants to do is STEAL more from the White House.

Obama is qualified to make the tough decisions. Those Flag Officers do not know what they are talking about. We 250 plus flag officers overrule them.

SHE NEEDS TO GO HOME!!

The truth   February 29th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I don't know about the bedside theroy. He was inpeached?

UASF Sgt in Colorado   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is no more qualified to be Commander-in-Chief than Obama Barack. Voting for a resolution in Congress is trivial and in no way be compared to qualified leadership of the world's most power military.

jessica   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

THIS IS THE BEST I HAVE HEARD SO FAR - GET HIM HILL!!!! YOU ARE BY FAR THE BEST CANDIDATE FOR THE JOB - WAKE UP AMERICA

VOTE FOR HILLARY
VOTE FOR HILLARY
VOTE FOR HILLARY

Dan   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Obama borrows paragraphs speeches ideas titles for his book, where is this famous judgement he has, we know about his long relation with syrian born friend Tony Rezko wheres the judgement in having friends like that? Oh unless he coached you on your war position. Listen obama supporters the party is over, sorry but he's not the one.

Jeff from Jersey   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

OBAMA '08:
"Willing to say whatever you want to hear in exchange for free ride in motorcades,whitehouse stationary,lavish parties,sending other people to Walmart to shop for me and salutes from people in uniforms.Promise to leave answering machine on at 3:00 AM!"

Rick Gilson   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

All this talk of Hillary having an edge based on "being bedside when the 3:00 crisis call came to the Whitehouse". is ridiculous. Are we to believe that Hillary accompanied Bill to the situation room? Heck she apparently wasn't in the oval office as frequently as she should have been to keep Bill out of trouble, let alone the country.

This business of Obama not being ready, too young, too inexperienced. Am I mistaken in the history, I thought Kennedy missed being the VP candidate after his first term as senator and was elected president after his second term as senator 3 years more experience than Obama but then Kennedy was not a state senator.

It would would be a huge mistake to put the Clinton's back in the Whitehouse.

Cheers,
Rick

CNN Hater   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

I wonder how CNN would feel if Hillary censored everything CNN tries to state when there is a comment anti Hillary. CNN has kept more than 33 of my comments in moderation, or outright rejected them when they were pro Hillary.

As a test, I used a friends computer, and have written the same exact comments, but inverted the name Hillary with Obama, and guess what…. it was posted!!!! How will CNN explain this one?

Conan   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

LETS GET READY TO RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUMMMMMBBBBBBBBBBBLLLLLLLLLEEEEEE!!!

Zach from IL   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Finally, a decent conversation from Clinton. Hope the rest of the primary is about civil, REAL issues like this one.

Thomas   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Something Stinks… It must be BO. I think Obama's head is going to get so big he will not be able to get threw the white house door.

Anyone BUT Obama 08′

JK   February 29th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Looks like the desperation we see at the ends of campaign. I guess this is the kitchen sink moment.

Belinda   February 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Did Swillery bring Janet Reno and a box of matches to Waco when she was there?

Micke   February 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

She's been in the White House when the tough decisions were made," Clark said…

Thats funny, the Clinton administration let close to a million people die in Rwanda. The first World Trade Center bombing killed 6 Americans and they didn't do much. Hundreds of thousands died in Bosnia on their watch. 17 US soldiers died on the USS Cole and they didn't retaliate. The Taliban took over Afghanistan too.

I can't wait for more of the Clinton "experience" on foreign policies in the white house…

Thanks CNN

MickyD10   February 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

"She's been in the White House when the tough decisions were made," Clark said, looking over to Clinton. "I guess you've been at the bedside when that phone rang at 3 a.m. in the morning."

Geeze, what a spin. Since when does being in the bed next to the man taking the call qualify someone for the job. If that were the case my wife would have been designing and running megamillion dollar construction projects years ago.

Wait, maybe in Hillary's world she could………

Leeza   February 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

"Obama criticized the ad earlier Friday, saying it was an attempt to "scare up votes."

Clinton disputed that notion in her speech Friday, saying, "Well I don't think people in Texas scare all that easily."

What the hell does that even mean? That is a weak defense on her part to shoot around the issue. Playing to the fact that Texas like to think they are tough. Gosh she ignores the point completely! I don't understand why people can't get this through their thick skulls. People who are still for her a blindly misguided.
No seriously! The fact that she is the only one who hasn't released her tax form isn't suspicious to anyone??
SHE IS HIDING SOMETHING! DUH! And a person with so many people are around, and so much support, doesn't have enough to time to get these out before Tuesday. Doesn't she have an accountant? Everyone else had time to get it out. Why is this acceptable behavior?
" Oh, I don't have time." You sound like my dead-beat father! If you make it priority it will get done.
I'd hate for her to actually get in office, people find out she was involved in criminal activity and then she becomes impeached…
OBAMA 08!

MSW   February 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

You can't get much better military support then a NATO Supreme Allied Commander and some generals. I know who I want answering the phone and won't be missing in action. How about you? Go Hillary!!

lolo333   February 29th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Yea. You know all of those "present" votes he made in such a SHORT time in the senate REALLY bother me also. He's afraid to make a decision. Just like in the debates Hillary answers the question and he rides off of her coat tail "Hillary is right on that". That is why they should make him answer first. Every thing he says is stolen from someone else. He's just another puppet just like GW.

Veronica   February 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Obama is the head of a SUB-committee, the very same one that Senator Biden is on. Senator Biden endorsed him the other day, so I don't think it's a major issue. To me, you and Obama are even because you didn't vote on the Telecom bill and you were in Washington at that time. Shame on you Billary. I'm still voting for Obama! I like his message and his policies and I don't want a wooden policy wonk, who won't listen to the little people as my President.

Keep on going Obama!

jj   February 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Hillary!

Way to go! Now, this is the best speech yet! This is what voters need to hear! Obama - missing in action! And by the way, where is Michelle Obama - also missing in action since she put her foot in her mouth IE "For the first time in my life, I feel like an American! Give me a break. Vote the issues America! Wake Up! Vote Hillary

VA   February 29th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

ALL YOU WANT TO DO IS PLAY YOUR RULES AND WIN…THAT IS ALL YOU CARE…POWER IS YOUR HIGH….The letter also noted that many of Clinton's senior campaign advisers in Texas had helped to develop the rules governing the state's caucus system. A Texas party official also noted that former President Clinton won the state's caucuses in 1992 and 1996 following the same rules.
QUIT TRYING TO CHANGE THE RULES THAT HAVE BEEN ENFORCED SINCE BILLARY WAS RUNNING……ANYTHING TO JUST WIN…WHAT A NIGHTMARE YOU ARE……..GO OBAMA!!!

David, Dallas Texas   February 29th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

DO NOT BE BIASED AGAINST HILLARY SUPPORT MESSAGES CNN!! WHAT SHE IS SAYING IS TRUE!!

Obama will not win in the Lone Star State!!! These polls only ask 700 people. 700 people cannot make up the mind of the entire state. We have a mind of our own and we will support Hillary Rodham Clinton. At least I can say her middle name without being chastised. Dont mess with Texas!!!

Hillary '08

kym - seattle, wa   February 29th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

Why is this story uncategorized? Don't you think this support is important to Hillary's campaign? Not to mention letting the Obama folks understand that large contention of military support for Hillary.

Paul Newman   February 29th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

At this point I think it is clear that the mud slinging will continue up until tuesday, when hopefully we will have a clear candidate. I don't think the democratic party can handle much more of HIllary's selfish, shameful tactics.

DJW   February 29th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Hillary you are making all strong women look BAD!! I am strong but I do not have to act like a man to be strong so please get a grip!!!

I thought these tactics were beneath you!!!

Coby Austin, Tx.   February 29th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

"Her tenure as "First Lady" prepared her to be the President of the United States." These people are hilarious. I wonder how much she paid this guy to get up and say being the wife of a president prepares that wife to be a president. WOW! She has no room to talk when it comes to experience. If I had to choose between two candidates that didn't have a whole lot of experience but were I guess I should say intellectually qualified. I would probably look at who can unite the country to make the decision.

Obama 08

LENA   February 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

By the time she's done, she will have not only left the Democratic party in ruins, but will have also equipped the Republicans with more amo.

Concerned in Texas   February 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Fellow Texans, please take heed. Contrary to what Obama whines in response, the latest Clinton ad is to the point about his credentials and abilities for international crises, because he has none. What should be a small point, but what has become his central theme on this point is that he was opposed to the Iraq war. The real issue here is that his opinion at that time menat NOTHING. I was opposed to the war, but I had no vote, was not the target of all the lies from Bush, and therefore my thumping my chest about that five years later is as MEANINGLESS as his. Who knows how he would have voted, or influenced others, in the US Senate at that time, because he wasn't there! Please, think about the 90's, and remember that, except for all the conservative attacks and Bill's personal indescretion, that decade is absolutely the best that this country has ever had, across all economic, international, and domestic issues. WHY would we not want to ensure that we get these incredible people back in the White House? Please, please, stop the Obama momentum right here, right now, in OUR GREAT STATE OF TEXAS!

Candace   February 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

She needs to stop. Where are her taxes?

Way2GoPeople   February 29th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Another crazy spin tactic by the clinton machine! He was present and the cronies she has supporting her claims are obviously bought out. "at the bedside when the phone rang at 3 a.m…"

What difference does it make? Obama can be there at 3 a.m. and when he answers the phone, our troop commanders will hear the voice of hope and change on the other end.

Their spirits will be uplifted to face the battle ahead. Obama will select a cabinet capable of answering the tough questions he cannot. He doesn't need experience to be president. He only needs a voice that sings of change.

He will be the inspiration that saves, heals, and unites America!

Not Hillary. With all her experience, she might make the right decision or something…

————- End of Blind Obamanite Text ————

Everytime I read tripe commentary like the above, it gives me gas…

Wake up people! This is not American Idol. This is for the stewardship of our country. Don't be so blind that a fact or substance has to fall off the tree of sensibility and hit you on the head.

It may be too late for Hillary at this point and boy what a let down it's going to be…

VIVIAN   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

SHE IS HORRIBLE!! PLEASE EVERYONE STOP VOTING FOR HER!!!!

Manuel TX   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Finally.

Time and time again this guy avoids taking responsibility and exaggerating his accomplishments in the US Senate and in his positions in general.

This guy is politically MIA.

It's time to vote this guy (and his David Axelrod created campaign) down.

I for one will go to my local Caucus here in Texas with my Super Soaker to make sure that no would be Obama Republicans get to screw things up. :)

Gorbashov, Long Beach, Ca.   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Hillary, now this is getting ridiculous.

I don't know who is a bigger Republican tool at this point you, or Nader.

Hillary it was over after Super Tuesday.

Pls., for the country and our party get out gracefully and unite against McCain!

Obama/Edwards in 2008!

Jazz   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Now you're talking. Paint the ugly truth in living color on that "blank
screen"!!! Take it to the convention Hill. We have to fight for your right to be president. This one's for the girls!!!!
Real Democrats Don't Quit!!!!!! HillYes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

jane   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Senator Clinton is by far the most capable and trustworthy candidate. After what the country has been through for the past seven years, we can't afford anything less.

Joan Kelly   February 29th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

I will reject any candidate who uses scare & fear tactics. That s all part of the old stuff we had to live with for 8 years. No more I had it . Goodby Hillary.

meadowlands   February 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

HC never answered the phone @ 3 am as president so what's her point.

OBAMA 08   February 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

WE KNOW SHE WAS PRESENT FOR THE IRAQI WAR VOTE THAT HAS COST ALMOST 4000 AMERCAN LIVES AND OUR ECONOMY. AND, SHE IS READY TO GIVE US MORE OF THE SAME, DAY ONE.

John   February 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

3 days to go Obama 9 points ahead in Texas and only two points behind in Ohio. The past 5 contests indicates that Obama beats the polls by 7 to 10 points in actual votes cast where does that leave Wolf Blitzers bias towards Clinton. I know she was short on money but all this free advertising is beginning to get on my tits.

Mr. B.   February 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Hilliary misses the real point.

Obama was at the beggining of his political career when spoke out against the war. This could have been the end of his career for speaking against all of the "experianced" political experts.

This is a man that put his countries future ahead of his.

America Is Ready
Obama 08

Paul   February 29th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Hillary, I thank God for your desire to work in favor of our nation.
Your willingness and experience will make your administration a successful one for every American. You are a voice for the voiceless and will protect us with strenght and authority from our enemies.
Thank God you will be there answering the phone and no someone who wants to be trained on the job, that 'd actually be kind of scary.

God bless you Hillary, Commander and Chief of the United States of America!

HILLARY 08!

Estamos contigo!
We are with you!

Lance   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

She clearly shows that shes desperate, plays old style politics, which are played out and corny, and shes desperate.
Its so tired that i literally cant wait when this is all over, the we wont have to deal with any Clinton name.

Oh my God………..when does it end with Her…………………

Not Hillary   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

Wow, negative attack after negative attack.

Who's using the Rove playbook Hillary?

skyler   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

When Hillary says there's a difference between "giving a speech at anti war rally as a state senator and dealing with an international crisis as president" she is absolutely right.

The only problem is, HILLARY HAS NEVER BEEN PRESIDENT NOR DEALT WITH AN INTERNATIONAL CRISIS.

Once again she is trying to convince voters that she has experience that she clearly does not.

This whole thing is reminding me of why I hate politics, and the only reason I support Obama is because he is above and past all of this. And that is why I just donated again to his campaign.

David   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

I think this is the most negative campaign that has happened during my lifetime (28 years old). I'm truly appalled and disappointed. Clinton reeks of desperation.

Ben from D.C.   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

STOP THIS PETTY ARGUMENT AND FOCUS ON AMERICA!!!

My God, what have we gotten ourselves into?!

MCNEIL   February 29th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

HILARY THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA…..

Barack Oprah   February 29th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

The problrm is people know the fact and still support and vote for Obama. They are the people who allowd G.W.Bush to be US president.

Aanya   February 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

I am fascinated by the way that as soon as Clinton started accusing the media of favouritism they have reported only on Clinton. Both of CNN headlines at this website are on Clinton. From one bias straight to another. Does the media know the meaning of fair, unbaised reporting?

Trev   February 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

That is right. Hillary makes tought decisions, even when they are unpopular. Obama was not in the Senate for the Iraq vote and was not there for the Iran vote. In his book, he hedges his bet on Iraq for political reasons. Why I don't dispute those reasons (helping the Democrats win) they do damage his anti-war record. If he had been there to vote against the war, things might be different. He was not, and should not get to take credit for a decision he never had to make. He also has not exercised the oversight authority given to chairs of Senate committees.

In addition, Hillary has crossed the isle almost twice as much as Obama to work with members of the GOP in the years since Obama joined the Senate.

I have a lot of respect for the things Obama has acomplished. I wish people could be more civil and discuss qualifications rather than personal stuff. That said, I want Hillary taking that call at 3AM.

Hillary 08 (without the hate)

MIwacth   February 29th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

These facts should be in another ads to let the people know the change guy is missing in action, when there is a need for his action not talk. Donate to Hillary for more ads. Obama has 2 to 1 ads showing in March 4th states. Donate now to get more facts show in these 4 states before too late.

L L FLORIDA   February 29th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

HILLARY CLINTON THE BEST MAN FOR THE JOB.

CRUZ for OBAMA   February 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I wish she was missing for the Iraq war vote and the primary.
May be we will get lucky soon.

columbus, ohio   February 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Which decisions did Hillary make at 3am?

Uncle Sam   February 29th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

The thought of what Hillary might look like at 3 a.m. is enough to scare anybody, even those teflon Texans…

Vic   February 29th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Thanks CNN for running this story. I've always wanted to tell Obama exactly that; that it's one thing not to be on the line and later SAY that you were against the war. So what? So were millions of people, and they have the right to tell George Bush "I told you so." But to push his remarks as a state congressman as a major plus in a presidential campaign sounds trite and trivial.

Evan   February 29th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

If this is the last roll of the dice, so to speak, for Hillary, then she's done it waaaay too early.

Ideally one would want to leave the opposition with as little time as possible to respond to any allegation - but she's given Obama three whole days not only to respond, but to retaliate as well.

Not exactly a smart move. But it pretty much sums up their entire campaign.

Sharon   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Who knows who was in bed with Bill Clinton at 3 a.m. when the phone rang?

And why would that make Hillary Clinton more experienced than Barack Obama at making rational, clear decisions with no political strings attached?

Kevin   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Missing in action? To *label* another country's security forces a terrorist organization? To give in even more to Bush?

Where was she during the vote on a bill in the Senate that gives amnesty to telecom companies who did Bush's bidding? Obama was there to vote against it. Where was she?

Paul   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

It would be nice if CNN would actually note that this Senate subcommittee that Hillary Clinton is talking about doesn't even have jurisdiction over NATO's presence in Afghanistan (how about some fact checking CNN), rather it covers certain NATO activities in Europe only. Also, the speech that Senator Obama gave was while he was running for US Senate and the prospect of war at the time was quite popular in Illinois at the time, so he risked losing the election based on principle.

Robert   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Disgusting. They are stooping lower and lower.

jw   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I'm so glad someone is finally pointing out that even though Obama was against the war (when he didn't have to show up and vote or actually take a real stand on anything), he hasn't done anything since going to Washington to back up his speeches. On his only trip to Iraq, he left the congressional delegation after only two days to tour other countries. Clinton has traveled to Iraq 3 times as a senator, while McCain has been there 5 times. It's easy to talk, but much harder to back it up in real life.

Peter Kavanagh   February 29th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I wonder if she'll go to work for Macain when this is done . She seems to be making his case for him . Do you people want see this war continue until the convention ? She clearly does not care how much damage she does to the party .

Come on Ohio . don't give into the fear . VOTE Obama and send this thing to the convention on Tuesday .Texas has already decicded .

VOTE Obama 08 !!!!!

Bonnie Angeletti (Columbus, Ohio)   February 29th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

My husband Dan and I are not watching CNN or MSNBC anymore due to the biased coverage and comments about Hillary Clinton. These were 2 of our favorite news programs that we watched faithfully for years but their sexism shows through with their biased slant toward Obama-mania. They fear of being called RACIST if they call it like it is ….BLACK RACISM but do not fear of being pinned as SEXIST!!!I am terrably disappointed in all of the media to the point it sickens me….I really liked the comment during the last debate about getting OBAMA a couple more pillows and make sure he is comfortable, SNL was right on with that one. So long and good riddance CNN, also we are boycotting all of your sponsors too. Hah, like that will do any good because we are white and it only matters to the media if we are black!!!!!

My husband and I support Hillary Clinton not because she is a woman, not because she is caucasion and not because she is a democrat but because she is the BEST PERSON FOR THE JOB!!!! She tells specifically how she is going to accomplish her goals to CHANGE our country for the positive, to start looking after our own people so we can hold strong against opposition from foreign countries and gain the respect back from overseas we had before. All by using measured diplomacy with measured military and making the U.S.A. a self sufficient country again! Obama might be an inspirational speaker about CHANGE but I want to know "WHERE IS THE BEEF?" Meaning he talks a lot but what are his specific plans to accomplish it? He talks the talk, but he leaves me wondering whether he can walk the walk! I know Hillary can walk the walk because in the past when the going got tough, she stood and fought for what she believed was right for all of us, not just one race, not just one party, not just one economical group. She has my husband's support and mine always.

michael   February 29th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

i'm from roma, in italy we studin' history from when we are 10 in schools, we learn from romans and greeks masters like aristotele, cicerone and seneca..so, when hillary told americans she is ready to be commander in chief just because she has been a desperate ( that's'your fault Bill..) white house wife, she make me smile.

kate   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

What will be missing is Hillary in the Presidential race against McCain in November. Time to call it quits HRC!

Obama '08

JD White California   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

I think is really sad the Hillary Clinton has decide to use the same fear tactics that President Bush used on her to get her to vote for the Iraq war. That old school politic is not going to work this time, at least on the American people. Hillary try again!!!!!!!!!!!!

dee   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Go girl, he nothng but and empty suit do nothing and said he done it all. Check his record a big 0.

Mac-FL   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

I'm still waiting for one of Hillary's cheerleaders to list in detail all of her so-called experience. This is the biggest scam of her campaign. She and Barak have BOTH been Senators on the national scene. Her former experience as the wife of a President is NOT political experience and she has never served in the military either….meanwhile Barak served politically in his own home state (not as a carpet bagger to another state), and has an equallylong record of service prior to that. Additionally, in case anyone is interested, most Presidents were former Governors with NO national or foreign policy experience AND our current (idiot) President had never even left the country before being elected as President.

haha   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

WOW! did she run out of tears this time? When he gave the speech, he had a lot at steak. for instance he was running for the U.S. senat, at the time to go against the iraq war was extremily brave of him. On the other hand for the one with power who could have possiblily porhibited this mess ended up voting for it. So mrs. clinton you have coused up enough problems because of your vote, it's time to let Obama clean up the mess you and Mr. bush have created.

VA   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

DISH IT OUT HILLARY…OBAMA CAN HANDLE YOU..YOU ARE JUST GETTING HIM READY TO HANDLE THE REPUBLICANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ABG   February 29th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

There could be a pattern here. Obama wants to be chair of a committee and then does not do the job. AMERICA! Why would we think he would not do the same if he were President? Besides no experience, we now learn he has no follow through. He thinks it will be "cool" to be President. I bet he thought it would be "cool" to be chair of a committee. I am not willing to trust my life to someone who admits to no action like it is no big deal. WE DESERVE BETTER THAN THAT TYPE OF THINKING!!

Kelly Anne   February 29th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

What, is this the Clinton News Network??

Every single day I read headlines:

"Clinton camp says Obama …"

"Clinton calls Obama …"

"New Clinton ad says Obama …"

Basically CNN just does a copy-and-paste of Clinton's talking points and memos, and puts it up on their website.

How "fair and balanced" of you!

Cole   February 29th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Hillary, let go of the 3 a.m. thing. You are old and irrelevant.

Sandy   February 29th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Way to go Hillary! Its time you start talking about Obama's record, because the media, especially CNN will not. They turn a blind eye to anything negative about Obama. They've not pushed Obama like they've pushed you to describe your policies. Yet they claim to be an "honest" media outlet, touting things like…get out of the way and let the story reveal itself." On the contrary, their personal opinions are so obviously partial, its shameful!

Bob, Florida-RFO   February 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

I am forever amazed at how mis-informed the so called informed are!

Get a grip folks and try to do some of your own independent research / reading! Then make up your mind.

You really need to look at how the NCA is structured to get a better under standing of how decisions are made. Ever heard of contingency plans?? Do you actually think that the CinC makes all the calls??

We got caught out on 911 because we were complacent in our analysis of the facts that simple coordinated asymmetric plans could defeat our high tech symmetric defense systems. We took our eye off the ball because we thought we knew how to play the game!

Clinton adverts, talk radio and the evening news is not the best place to get your 60 seconds of information from!

Go Obama '08!!!

applecrispbetty   February 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

She's starting to talk like a Republican more and more each day. I guess that's why she voted for Iraq war to make us more secure.

James   February 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

say anything, do anything, go to even newer lows all in an attempt to be president. Yeah, Hillary is just great. Glad to see that she decided to utilize Rovian tactics herself opposed to having surrogates (such as the BET Founder) do her dirty work.

When this is over, Hillary will not even be able to run for school board.

Joe Alaniz   February 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Is it me, or does Obama and Clinton resemble the characters from the movie Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde, where Sally Field portrays a power, arrogant, egotistic congresswoman and Reese Witherspoon plays a lawyer that is seen as a delusional, ignorant, and Capital Barbie doll. How could a blonde political virgin come to Washington D.C. and think that she could make a difference among the elite policy-makers. Of course, in this case Obama is not a mindless or an air head individual, but is still seen as a Capital Ken doll. Now, the question that needs to be asked, can Obama pull a win like Ms. Witherspoon.

-Joe

Pensacola, Fl

jsb   February 29th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Hillary, you continue to show just how divisive you are. Disgusting.

Tom, Iowa   February 29th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

She's really just throwing everything at the wall to see if anything sticks. Not a great quality for a commander-in-chief.

Sukie   February 29th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I read a post the other day where Hillary Clinton was critized for being "too strong a personality."

Thank God she is!

I think those folks who are ga-ga over the Cheerleader Obama are in for a terrible shock when it comes time to get down to work.

Hillary Clinton has a great record in her work as senator for the State of New York. I believe she can do the same job for our country.

Once we have "hired" our president, we are stuck with that person.

Look at the complaints about George W. Bush! We STILL have to wait until January 20, 2009 before he heads to Crawford for the last time.

Carolyn Lee   February 29th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Help me to understand this.
Now, Hillary's running on experience.Tell me, just what is this so called "experience" she's talking about? When the Red Phone rang, I am sure that the President answered it, not Hillary.She claims she has traveled to countless countries,and I don't dispute that ,however she traveled as the First Lady, along with the President whose job it was to solve problems and change policy. This was not Hillary's job.So, is she running on her husband's experience or her own?What exactly is her experience when it comes down to defending our country or managing the national economy? Maybe it's just my lack of understanding. Maybe you can explain it to me.
Thanks

gordon orr   February 29th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Obama on is worst day is more capable than Hillary could ever be. She couldn't even manage her own family in a crisis. No wonder
wondering Bill looked elsewhere.

Just think how much havoc wondering Bill will create while roaming
unchecked with no responsibilities in the white house. No intern will be safe.

How can we ever expect that Hillary could handle a crisis of international proportion when she messed up her personal situation so badly. She is incompatent and so are her supporters.

She does seem to be getting the pity vote. Poor, poor Hillary. Texas and Ohio will put her out of the game.

E. Omega Cantu   February 29th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

O.K., regarding the new Clinton ad. Mr. Obama, why didn't you vote to protect us. Had the phone rung as it did with the information given to to Congress, and you felt it was just a scare tactic, the twin towers would be down again. You just don't get it!
Our Congress voted on the security service information given to us by the present President. Why aren't you blaming the "guy" with the finger on the button?

Jordan Fitzpatrick   February 29th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Hillary should refrain from touting her "judgement" when she is speaking in Waco, TX– we know all about the Clinton judgement here.

Bill   February 29th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

She is right. Obama had no authority during the Irag vote and was not privy to the same information. Its easy to say you were against something when you were not in a real postion to act. Also, running for President is not an excuse for Obama to not have done his job in the Senate. He was elected to do a job and has done very little, but expects the American people to give him the most important job in the world because he has become America's political "American Idol". I say experiance and a proven record, even with mistakes, is a better choice for America. We have always been taught, you learn from your mistakes. That is why Hillary will end this war, stablize the economy and bring us healthcare reform.

David   February 29th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Its Dirty. But yet, John McCain is the only one who has lied this year.

Old Soldier   February 29th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

As a retired veteran that is supporting Hillary Clinton . You have to have experience and I truly feel that he is more qualified than Mr. Obama

dave   February 29th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Go get him Hillary! For him to keep going back and bringing up that 2004 vote when he wasn't even in congress is mindless fodder for cnn's political analysts.

Leigh   February 29th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

He is missing in action because he doesn't want voters to see how he would have voted. Missing now missing @ 3:AM when the phone rings or we are being attacked.

Claire   February 29th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I'm so tired of listening to her whine whine whine. When will she finally drop out? If I liked her before, I no longer do.

Wisconsin   February 29th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

REGARDLESS who Hillary Clinton has laid in bed with for the past 35 years does not give her the experience to make the correct decisions to be president. If she is elected Bill Clinton will be making the 3:00 am decision calls and probably all the decisions. It will be another presidency for the Clintons. We need a change. The clintons were a disgrace in the white house with his adultery epsiode. So please tell me what good decision makers are they? They are a disgrace to america.

Think before you vote   February 29th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Exactly! That is what I say. Obama keeps saying he opposed the Iraq war from the beginning, and that, for having had that judgment, he is more qualified to be president of the Unite States than Senator Clinton. I do not think so, since he had no vote or say in the matter. The war was George Bush’s idea, not Senator Clinton’s. I myself opposed that war from the beginning too, but I had no vote or say in the matter. However, I do not consider that, for that reason I am qualified to lead this country.

Concerned Canadian   February 29th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Hillary Clinton voted for the war…big deal…she did her patriotic duty to ensure that the US is safe. She was given information , she listened to arguments from both sides of the floor and she performed her duty as Senator to vote.

Obama is 'Mr Present' but Hillary is " Mrs President " !!!

Obama says there was no al-Qaeda in Iraq before the Bush led invasion. Who's he trying to kid. The fact of the matter is the 'whole' Middle East is full of al-Qaeda, insurgents, suicide bombers, opium drug dealers, warlords, terrorists and anything else even before GW said lets invade Iraq.

Conclusion , Obama just doesn't have a grasp of reality and he's using 'just words' to fool all ya ordinary people who can't think .

This nonsense that Hillary is a poster child of the status quo in Washington that the average American detests is just that…NONSENSE !!

Hillary Clinton for President…….pleeeeeeze !!!!

Juan Venadito   February 29th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Obama's Purple Unicorn Dream Factory chugs right along thanks to the fawning MSM. When will the MSM call Obama on his quibbling on Iraq (would've voted no yet a year later in an interview said he wasn't sure how he would've voted), his repeated present votes or absences during crucial votes, and the Afrocentric racist views of his church, let alone his spiritual advisers support of Farrakhan. Treat Obama the same way you treat Hillary Clinton and perhaps more people will wake up from the Obama soma.

Elle   February 29th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Hillary Clinton for President. She's the most qualified to handle national and global situations. I trust her to handle business. I trust Obama to be a celebrity.

Chicano Art   February 29th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Hillary Clinton was lied to by Bush when she voted to authorize military action. Obama probably saw a potential war with Iraq as an attack on Islam. The fact is, if Bush would have properly planed the war in Iraq most of the problems that arised would have not developed. The Sunni insurgency was created by disbanding the Iraqi army. Bush did not send enough men to secure supply lines or the Iraqi border, allowing outsiders to enter country. These blunders have been criticized openly by McCain. The fact remains that no matter how much hope you have, America still has enemies. Somebody who is too busy giving speeches instead of being a real agent of action is not fit to represent the Democrates in such a crucial election.
CHICANOS FOR HILLARY

Rich Groh   February 29th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is so very desperate about the upcoming Texas/Ohio/… primaries that she has lost all of her integrity. She gave Bush the OK to invade Iraq. Obama did not. It is just that simple. But she wants to attack him over nation security issues???? George Bush and the Hillary Clinton's who authorized this extremely misguided war are the clueless leaders on national security. Obama is the hope for America out of madness.

Here we go again!   February 29th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

This experience argument does not work for HRC, if one is voting on experience, she would not be the candidate of choice!!!!

And if HRC has so much experience–release the records and show us what you have (probably not much which is why you won't release it).

Spare us the I've asked them to release it as soon as possible scenerio it's a lie!!!!!

I'm afraid of people who LIE!

democracy   February 29th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Oh Billary blah blah blah…………….. the same old same, you are running out of things to say, what next?
where are your tax returns?
.mmm.

Chris M.   February 29th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

She'd probably be better off if she'd stop whining about Obama and start focusing on what SHE can do. All she does is focus on him, and it's gotten inexcusably ridiculous.

That's probably half the reason she's losing.

Joan   February 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Obama Makes Gay Ad Buys in Ohio, Texas The Obama campaign is lavishing some of its cash advantage on the LGBT community with targeted ad buys in Ohio and Texas leading up to the critical March 4 primaries in both states (Rhode Island and Vermont also vote that day). According to Obama LGBT steering committee member Eric Stern, the campaign has just completed an ad buy with #### newspapers in the four largest LGBT markets of those two states — Columbus, Cleveland, Dallas, and Houston. Full-page ads will appear starting this Friday in Outlook Weekly of Columbus, the Gay People's Chronicle of Cleveland, the Dallas Voice, and OutSmart, which is Houston-based. Buying a full-page, four-color ad that appears one time typically costs anywhere between $1,000 and $2,000 in weekly publications. In the Gay People's Chronicle, for instance, the ad cost about $850, according to the paper's advertising manager; the same ad went for about $1,500 in the Dallas Voice.

Tene B.   February 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Ahem,

How much Foreign Policy experience, Congressional experience, military experience, did Bill Clinton have when he took office?

Tim R   February 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

She's really getting desperate now.

I just hope Obama can put an end to her dirty politicking once and for all.
I am so sick of the Clintons!

BTW, why won't she release her tax returns? What is she hiding?

Hillary is only giving McCain ammunition for the general election. She doesn't care about the party or the country; she only cares about herself cuz she's "in it to win it". She's as bad as Nader.

Basquale   February 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

What makes Hillary believe she'd be the better Commander-in-Chief? It's hilarious! So many leaders think they are so great, but they are not! Cause all they can do is making war!!! It's disgusting.

Roger B from Portland, OR   February 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Wow…she looks like the fricking DEVIL in that picture.

I wonder where Obama was for that vote? Probably doing something productive with his time, not wasting it on another delusion of Bush? And how can she cite this as not dealing with a crisis?

And Obama has chaired a few meetings (not the ones Clinton thinks he should hold of course) but he has been too busy running for President. It happens. I mean, Clinton missed the vote for the Stimilus package that both Obama and McCain made it to. She was too busy campaigning…giving speeches and not acting to help the American people. Ironic, isn't it?

Clinton wants power, she wants control. She tells us what we need. Obama wants to lead us, listen to us, and unite us to stop the petty bickering that is keeping us from ever accomplishing anything.

California Voter   February 29th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Indeed there is a difference in giving a speech and having to step up and make a decision when you are in the US Senate. And I agree, where was he when the Iran vote came up that he also criticized her for voting on — MISSING ACTION.

Voters and Texas and Ohio should take heed before they vote.

Brandon   February 29th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

nice to see the editors at cnn.com hard at work
"… supporting a measure pushed BUY the Bush administration.)"

Michael, North Carolina   February 29th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Sen. Obama has been honest with the American people. He does not have to resort to using scare tactic's to get people to vote for him, unlike Sen. Clinton. Just as director Michael Moore said at the Oscars. I can not vote for Sen. Clinton because she did not use good judgement when it came to the Iraq War. Sen. Obama did not believe the Bush lies and did what was right, and voted against the war. He gets my vote 100%. Sen. Obama is the JOE LOUIS, FDR, and JFK of our generation. He will unite the American people, unlike anyone before him as ever done.

YES WE CAN
OBAMA/EDWARDS '08

Lynda in Mn.   February 29th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Give it up Hilary, being first lady is NO experience to be President. I am so dicussed with all your scarce ads this past day, that all I can say you should be ashamed of yourself. If our young children see this, which they will what in the world will they think.

Jason   February 29th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

Back and forth, back and forth, I hope either one get's eliminated on Tuesday so at least one of them will have to shut up! I can't take much more of this.

A New Yorker   February 29th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

Hopefully people will see the truth about Obama soon. So on Super Tuesday, do you think he scribbled in "present" on the primary ballot when he voted? haha

Hillary 08

Mark   February 29th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

"In a salvo against Obama that lasted several minutes, Clinton said, "There's a big difference between giving a speech at anti war rally as a state senator and dealing with an international crisis as president."

Yep, and if Dubya can make people believe he answered the call, so can Hillary. Hallelujah!

C'mon, people. There is no test for this. Everyone shows their mettle if and when a crisis arises. I have no doubt in the capabilities of Obama or Clinton.

But I think 99% of the time–when that red phone ISN'T ringing–I definitely want Obama running things.

seth   February 29th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

Sort of like Hillary was missing in action on the FISA vote recently?

Be Real   February 29th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

And our alternative is Hillary who has no Commander in Chief experience. Get Real!

Go Obama

Wayne   February 29th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

Spewing negativity ad nausium. Can she just talk about the good she will do opposed to just trying to tear Obama down every chance she gets. Geesh. Getting annoying.

leny   February 29th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

I can't understand that he said that the ads about that phone ringing is to instill fear burt on msnbc I, they showed an ad just the same with hers. I am confused!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Eddie in NYC   February 29th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Senator Obama tries to pin on Senator Clinton the decision made by President's Bush to go to war in Iraq; yet says he could not hold hearings on the conduct of the Afgan war because he is running for president. Wow that's an "inspirational" excuse. If I were running for president and could carry out my duties in the Senate then i would remove myself for other to do the right right thing. Our valiant soldiers deserve better from our would-be "inspirational" president.

I say, Senator Obama, you haven't held hearings on the conduct of the Afgan war because you care more about rhetoric and getting elected than you do about winning the war. You have no moral authority to point the finger in any direction but your own.