March 5, 2008
Posted: March 5th, 2008 02:37 PM ET
The former president has been a quieter presence on the trail, says Panetta.
The former president has been a quieter presence on the trail, says Panetta.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Bill Clinton’s former White House chief of staff thinks his old boss has been doing a pretty good job staying out of trouble.

Leon Panetta told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer Wednesday that Clinton “has been very controlled” on the campaign trail in recent weeks.

“He’s handled himself pretty well over the last few weeks,” said Panetta, who served as chief of staff in the White House from 1994-1997.

“He’s been obviously involved,” Panetta said, asked how visible the former president should be in his wife’s presidential bid. “He’s working very hard top try to help his wife out, as he should.”

“But I think in particular, he’s been much better at talking about the issues that count, and I hope they continue to use him in that way, because I think he can be very effective.”

Panetta said that while Clinton cares a great deal about what happens in the presidential race, “he himself knows that when he speaks, he’s going to have to speak carefully.”

– CNN Political Producer Peter Hamby

Filed under: Bill Clinton


Latina for Obama   March 5th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Haaahaa , now BIll is great, plzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Clinton Clan, plzzz

Puddytat   March 5th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

HEY ....I never thought sticking up for the DEMs could be so much fun !!!

HEY YOU BACK THERE .... LM ... YUP...BILL WAS IMPEACHED FOR ALOT LESS THAN THE ALL THE THINGS BUSH SHOULD BE IMPEACHED FOR .

aiding and abetting criminals that slither through the border

letting border patrols be imprisoned for doing their job ...

the Fl. State sanctioned torture to death of the disabled woman TERRI SCHIAVO who was neither comatose nor terminal UNDER GOVERNOR JEB BUSH ... both JEB and GEORGE had the executive power to stop it.

BILL makes GEORGE look like Atilla the Hun . hahahaha

AND WE SHOULD COME TOGETHER FOR HIS FRIEND JUAN MCCAIN ? ? ? ? hahahahahahah

TerryD   March 5th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

John McCain will never win the presidency, no matter who he goes

up again Clinton or Obama. It is time for the Republicans to get out

of "Dodge" they can try in another eight years!

Everyone on this blog knows, that the best Democratic nominee for

the presidency is Hillary Rodham Clinton.

The Reasons why are many but here are a few;

>>she will be ready on day one,

>>she is intelligent and understands the issues,

>>she will have very effective solutions to the chaotic confusion and

disorderliness, left on her desk in the White House, by George Bush

>> she already has in place the best Military advisors in America etc.

Eye Opener - Las Vegas   March 5th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

To Chris from Seattle:
You are certainly entitled to your opinion but to call people names just because they support a candidate other than yours is speaks volume of you. All those colorful adjectives apply to you and not the other people you were referring to.
I do not know what your background is and quite frankly, I am scared to even ask, but for you to have the audacity to denigrate one of the world's foremost statesmen, one can only surmise that it is either from utter lack of education or totally twisted upbringing from the ghettos.

GoHill   March 5th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

You are missing the point-
No demographic group has broken 80-85% for one candidate over another- EXCEPT the African American vote.
Since both candidates are similar on the issues, AND Hillary polls ahead of Obama on being able to deal with all the problems facing the nation, then that vote is based on race and NOT the issues.
That is RACISM.
Why pretend otherwise?
Women are NOT breaking 85% for Hillary.
Non-Blacks are NOT breaking 85% for Hillary.
The Old geezers are NOT breaking 85% for Hillary.
So ALL groups are voting on the issues- at least as THEY perceive them- except blacks, who ARE voting on race.

Clinton Shuts Down Obama   March 5th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Hillary shuts down Obama and silences her critics. As the media continues to handle Obama with care, Hillary proceeds full steam ahead. Hillary is the "comeback kid" and well on her way to winning the Democrate nomination. Obama struggles with finding his footing and has a long road ahead.

s voter   March 5th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

As an African American Female. I agree with Gdouglas. Blacks are voting based on race alone and would scream bloody murder if the situation were reversed. No other racial group is voting this way. Yes, Hispanics supported Clinton but with 50 – 70 % margins not the 80 – 90% margins of African-Americans supporting Obama. Whites have also been more evenly split.

I have many friends and family who voted for Obama but cannot state one specific tenet of Obama's campaign. Just "Yes We Can" and "Change". Sometimes not even that.

If Obama wins the primary, I will vote for him but I voted for Hillary because she has better experience and has articulated specific plans vs. Hope and Change with no substance.

ACitizen   March 5th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

Lissa, there are ways to keep a nation safe, very effectively, without engaging in a hundred year war. Iraq had nothing to do with keeping America safe, had everything to do with oil, keeping the Saudi's safe... I can't believe people are still drinking the Houston cool aid.

AtlantaVoter   March 5th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

Bill is not out in front of the camaras because the media will not let him be a "candidate spouse" like the others.

Remember, Michelle Obama hurled the first salvo of dirt when she said, "How can you control the White House if you can't control your own house?" Tip for Michelle: Women are not likely to forgive the dissing of another woman so cruelly.

Canadian gdouglas - Thanks for your post. You are spot on.

Hillary Clinton 2008

B. Smart   March 5th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

I NOW SEE WHY HE CHEATED ON HER.
Obama/Edwards 08

PMI   March 5th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Somebody please clear this up for me and all the others that don't understand.
How is it true that black people only vote for Obama because he is black but when white people vote for Hillary, it's because she is qualified and race is never a factor? Are we really supposed to believe that race was not a factor for all those little old white ladies that voted for Hillary in Ohio? What about all those women who vote for Hillary because they want to see a woman as president. Finally how do you explain the white males and females that vote for Obama? My son keeps telling me that race is no longer a factor and that we are on the dawn of a new and glorious future as Americans. Now I just tell him to come to CNN or MSNBC and read the blogs from my fellow American democrats or a stray comment from a dumb Canadian .

Sherylanne   March 5th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

I'm more concerned about controlling Michelle Obama. Her statements were far worse than Bill Clinton; but as usual, they were swept under the rug at the CNN headquarters.

ACitizen   March 5th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

After wasting over 40 million dollars of tax payers money, some are still not satisfied... they call the Clintons divisive... corrupt... most who say they hate Hillary or Bill Clinton can't say why when they are challenged... talking heads say people hate the Clintons, so they join in.

On NAFTA, Obama self destructed by mismanaging his staff, being ill informed... where is the accountability? Looks very much like the current failed administration with a likable fool at the top but being puppeteered by a bunch of goons from Houston. But Obama is a very shrewed and sharp man... but he lets these things happen... it has happened more than once. That bothers me.

On the 3am ad, it was a legitimate difference... considering the health care leaflets that the Obama campaign released in Ohio, this ad is very benign.

It is not negative campaigning to draw attention to ones opponents weakness, but it is negative campaigning to distort the opponents record and position.

Kirk   March 5th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Obama you should be locked up . Working behind the the scenes wirh the Canadians to sell out the American People .I'M SURE THEY PAID YOU WELL FOR YOUR TREASON TO OUR GREAT NATION .

Henry   March 5th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

The DNC has quite the problem on their hands, and I'm sure that they have no idea what to do. What was to be a quick and easy Hillary inaguration, has turned into a nightmare because voters somehow became more involved. Gosh....The Clinton's, and their pompous need to feel in control and entitled are going to give away this election to the Republicans. I am outraged that Hillary continues to count Fla. and Michigan as her victories, no one campaigned there because they were following rules they had agreed to. How self serving and manipulative. Further outraged that she would suggest a "dream ticket" with Obama. She of course would be Pres., despite the fact that she currently is trailing, and mathematically will never catch up unless the Super Delegates are forced to "cash in" all of their debts. Is every body sleeping or what ? Bill won't be able to contain himself for too much longer. Maybe he can go on a few Rush shows to let it all out. In the true spirit of collaboration Hillary's "dream ticket" should be with Ann Coulter. They could spit venom, whine and complain all day long.

Sandra from Ohio   March 5th, 2008 7:34 pm ET

I rather give an unknown a change then let the Clinton's return to the white house have all you voters forgot the things that went on when they were in the White house before the lies the cover ups the affairs in the oval office the impeachment come on you have to be smarter than this think or is a republican what you want for four more years

MANDY   March 5th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Hillary needs to keep Bill quiet during the primaries because she fears what he will say. The media has been kept away from him.

If she becomes President, what is she going to for 4 years with Bill? Send him overseas?

CLINTONSTRONG   March 5th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Clinton in 08!!

THis country was strong with Bill and will be even stronger with a fighter like Hillary 08!~!

HIllary 08!!

go hillary   March 5th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

he is better with a nunu

Mandy   March 5th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

I'm putting this comment here because apparently CNN is still being biased and letting mostly Obama supports add comments on other issues.

Mr. Obaman and supports stop crying. Everybody has until April 15 to do their taxes.

Lets deal with the real issues, why did your represenative go to Canada and say what he did?????? Why didn't you do something about what he said if you do not agree?

Can you get me financing on a new $300,000 home throught your friends.

Who is financing your campaign?

Your supporters say your would never be the VP, you must really be stupid, that would be the opportunity of your lifetime. Actually getting the experience you need, the opportunity to keep the democrates in the white house for 16 or more years. Change takes time and experience takes time. If you really care you will do the right thing not keep complaining and whining.

Mrs. Clinton's ads did not cause you to lose 3 states yesterday, you caused it by your actions. Be mad at yourself or your advisors.

Tim   March 5th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

I believe all former presidents are simply called "Mr. President", aren't they?

If Hillary wins, it will not take way his 8 years in the position, so I believe he will still simply be called Mr. President.

kb from Iowa   March 5th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

He sure wasnt silent when he went on Rush Limbaugh this week, a day after Rush said we should keep the contest alive to 'bloody' the contestents up. One day later Rush brilliantly declared the idea of a woman or a black as president was funny. Now tell me the Clinton's will stop at nothing for power. Why wasn't Clinton's interview on Rush Limbaugh's show headline news?!?

Outside of the box   March 5th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

It's time to look at Third Party solutions to our problems. Not only has our country become a Two Party majority system, but potentially a two family dynasty as well. Who wants 24+ years of dishonesty and corruption? It's time for American voters to take the power back.

Nader/Gonzales

K.Celina from IL!!!!   March 5th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

I think, that Obam's supporters can't accept, that man, husband, who was President for many yrs, now is helping his wife.
What's wrong with it, what's wrong with you people ????
Obama had corrupted Rezko !!!!!! help !!!!! and is O.K.
What is Obama HIDING !!!!! he is not clear with his politycal carrier in Chicago and Illinois !!!!!!
I wonder, WHO IS HE !!!!!!!!! WHAT IS HE HIDING !!!!!!
VOTE FOR HILLARY !!!!!! CLINTON WAS GOOD PRESIDENT !!!!!!
HILLARY IS THE BEST CANDIDATE !!!!!!!
HILLARY 2008 !!!!!!!!!!

HD for Obama   March 5th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

I am glad to see they have been able to keep Bill's temper under control and out of the center of the spotlight.

If Clinton ends up at the top of the democratic ticket through superdelegates or through breaking the rules regarding Michigan and Florida, then I will change my party affiliation and register as a republican and also vote for McCain in November. There is no excuse for her to bring down Obama, drag him through the mud, force him to go negative and destroy the party over the next few months for her self gain.

Ed   March 5th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Behind a very strong woman is a very formidable man, that is Bill Clinton! He worked silently but with power, he went from town to town in TX & OH, campaigning for HILLARY! That is the teamwork that will spell HILLARY some victory!!!! YOU ARE THE BEST BILL!!!!

GGamma   March 5th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

We are in twenty first century, but some people still want this kind of things like G. King the first , G. King the second, and G. king the third. that's stupid.

wall   March 5th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

Why do posters on here get threatened by reading what others post – the whole idea behind a forum like this is to express your ideas and read the ideas of others – so I myself welcome all expressions here and do not understand why some on here respond to personal postings suggesting they have no right to express opinions – this is a posting on the world wide web keep in mind and is not exclusive to the United States – Keep those opinions coming and pay no attention to those who only want opinions that mimic their own.

wall   March 5th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Why do posters on here get threatened by reading what others post – the whole idea behind a forum like this is to express your ideas and read the ideas of others – so I myself welcome all expressions here and do not understand why some on here respond to personal postings suggesting they have no right to express opinions – this is a posting on the world wide web keep in mind and is not exclusive to the United States – Keep those opinions coming and pay no attention to those who only want opinions that mimic their own.

Jo   March 5th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

Miguel - Bill Clinton was raised by a single mother and his grandparents. He worked his way through college and deserved the awards, honors, and political successes he has had. Hillary has worked hard, and she has the credentials to lead our nation. Also, Hillary may have gone to Yale, but where did "poor" Obama go to school - Harvard Law. He and his wife spin the poor black is me talk, but they are both monied professionals that do not deserve a term in the White House. As Carl Rowe stated last night, Obama has only stood on the fringes, but Hillary has worked hard to bring together the Republicians and Democrats in the senate. She deserves the nomination. I would vote for Al Sharpton, who is an honest and frothright individual - but, I will swing and vote Republician before I vote for Obama. He will not unite anything. Oprah picked the wrong black man to back.

Lissa   March 5th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

This latina democrat is voting McCain – he's a strong choice with a history of knowing when to push and when to compromise. I may not agree with him on some things, but he's the stable kind of man who can lead us out of the trouble the current government has gotten us all in without upsetting the economy or the international political environment excessively.

I don't mind Clinton – she may not be someone I'd personally choose to "have a beer with", such as many thought of the younger Bush, but she would probably be a fine president. She's sneaky and intelligent and extremely quick on her feet. Those are things that are absolutely vital to have in a world leader, really. Honesty is great, but let's be real – clever is the person that will keep the nation safe.

Obama seems to be such a poor choice. The man stands for nothing. Check his voting history. He cannot speak unless he knows no one will contradict him. He speaks of change, but change comes from direction and determination. Obama may show some sort of determination, but absolutely no sense of direction whatsoever. What surprises me is the rabid support he gets from the public. I highly suspect that people are voting for him not because they really agree with him or his policies, but because they want to prove to the rest of the world how racist they're not.

LM   March 5th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

I'm curious? Would anyone be upset if on his way out of office Bush decided to pardon Al Qaeda terrorists? What if Jeb were in Jail for drugs and he pardoned him? What if he were actually by some blessing impeached...What if Mrs. Obama had been disbarred for perjury? How would we treat her?

Don't let the bad times of Bush blind you to the Clinton insanity. He pardoned 16 known terrorists from the FALN, he pardoned his own brother and some personal friends. He was disbarred for lying under oath and was impeached. Not exactly the cheerleader I would want on my side. To be honest, I am trying to keep an open mind but not really sure I want him back in the white house.

Matt   March 5th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

It is important for Bill to stay on the side lines in this battle. Bill Clinton was a great president, and one of my all time favorites. I am supporting Obama simply because I don't feel that the presidency can be inherited. This follows what happened with the both Bush's and now with the Clinton's. Come on, I think there is enough great politicians out there that we don't have to keep household names in office.
Hillary won Ohio largely because it is a very strong AFL-CIO voting state, probably the largest, which could also explain her increased white male support. I was a union member in my recent past, and AFL-CIO members stick to there candidate like glue, whomever they endorse, thats how they will vote.
Now if we allow Florida and Michigan to have their primary or caucus at the same time as Pennsylvania, then we will likely see Obama win the party. I think this because Hillary's recent comments will come to bite her, and Obama's nobility will carry him. He will get Mississippi, Wyoming, and have strong momentum going into Pennsylvania. If Florida and Michigan vote at the same time as Pennsylvania, I believe with full confidence that Obama will take the party that Tuesday night. If Howard Dean wants his party to get the White House he needs to allow these two states to vote.

fuzzi   March 5th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

I will not vote for Hillary if its Hillary and Mac us black folk will stay home. I GUESS BILL CLINTON WILL GET HIS 3rd TERM HUH!!!!!!!!!

behind obama   March 5th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

he might be in control and behind hillary but it wont matter because my man obama is gonna win anyway

Al in Hawaii   March 5th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

The only call Hillary will get at 3 am is from the Secret Service. She will need their help to keep track of Bill!

CA boomer for CHANGE   March 5th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

President Clinton is a liar and a stain on the democratic party. Obvously, it has been a good idea to keep him out of the picture while she is campaigning..... For those voters that dismiss the Clinton (Hillary & Bill) scandals in favor of whatever government benefits they think these two can provide for them, I would say... beware of what you wish for. It is kind of like trying to go back to that old lover that you remember fondly........ Nothing is ever as good as you remember it. The world has changed since the 1990's........ the challenges are different. Who answers the phone at 3am is not nearly as important as having a president with the smarts to keep us out of those situations that lead to the phone call. A reluctance to talk to those that we don't agree with is a recipe for the same old stand-offs that we have had during the past 7+ yrs. Universal healthcare and a great economy won't matter if we cannot make the world safer for ourselves and our children.

Chris-Seattle   March 5th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

Anyone voting for the Clintons, in my opinion, is:
Stupid, naive, short-sighted, forgetful, uninformed, blind, deaf, dumb, idiotic, delusional, un-educated, not-with-it, chasing their tail, stuck, etc.

I only say that to point out that even though on the surface the Clintons did great things, when you lift up the rug you might need a haz-mat suit! They are both full of lies, deception and self centered motives. I think Bill is gonna leave her if she doesn't win and go be with one of his other women!

Grif   March 5th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

I LIke Bill too!!!

Nevertheless, it's her "Race" this time. Nobody's going to walk over this Lady>

She's just gotten into her stride. No "Balking" for her now,
she's going in a canter.

Leaps and bounds...

austin   March 5th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

TO: gdouglas

i say great for you having the "nads" to say it. it so annoying that people in this country do want to believe that racism doesn't have to be harmful. there are multiple ways people in this great country of ours are racism. be it against black, hispanic, korean, or the growing russian community in new york. it is here, it is alive, and most people won't believe that they have done anything racially related without even knowing it.

having said that, you can't deny that the african american community in this country is backing one of their own. and they have EVERY right to do it. obama is a great person who will do amazing things for this country. it just happens he is black. so what, get over it, move on. he is moving the african community in a positive way. YES there are many of his supporters voting for him for the fact that he is a black man in position to be something this country has never had.

now people may not think it is kosher to speak of such things and so deny it. but get real people, its a fact that race plays a factor in american culture.

i was at the cacus last night in texas, and when they seperated the group of people based on who they supported, it was clear who the african community was supporting. there just a huge number of supporters for him that was swelled by the african community. i'm sorry but if you take out that community, he wouldn't be having the success that he is now. or how would this race be if the african community was equally factored in proportionally to the other races that voted.

say look into historically how they vote, how many turn out, etc and factor that in to todays results to see if obama would still be ahead the way he is.

and i also fully believe that people in my age (the young generation of voters) group who never gave a flying lick to politics before, are voting based on the hype and racial background of obama. i'd like to see how many of them will vote next year or when the next senate race in their state happens.

i vote for either when it comes down to it. both clinton and obama have very similar plans for this country just different methods of getting there. people need to look beyond skin color to see that and in the general election if obama isn't the nominee, know that clinton is a white person who will bring about the same changes obama is after.

Darren   March 5th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

KC that is a non issue the Canadians have cleared that up over and over again

you people continue to spew that non sense, lets not go on Hillary's record of transgressions

if thats the best she can do about Obama then im convinced he really has no big skeletons in the closet..

KC Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

voting truth; You are right of course...200 years of men in the White House is enough!!!! It's time for a WOMAN, and I wouldn't care what color she is, the best one just happens to be white this year!!!

GO HILLARY

Grant   March 5th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

I would like to hear from Bill and his plans for when he takes over for his third term!!! Come on people, The Clintons are running here, not Hillary....He is purposely out of sight for that reason....reason why he was not on stage with Hillary Tuesday night? only Chelsea? They do not want us to connect the dots...............................................Actually I do not recall them being seen in public at all together during her campaign? Meanwhile every candidate (both parties) are always with their respective spouses........Out of sight, out of mind?

Watch em America!

anne in wisconsin   March 5th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Ardnuas,,, You said: "Wait until he gets back into the Whitehouse, you WILL see the same old Clintons acting the same old way they did in the 90's……Fighting with the Republicans ….."–You bet and I hope so! It's takes fighting to get things done! I do NOT want someone who wants to avoid confrontation with the Repugs! We had that with a Repug Congress & Bush for 6 years!! I want someone whose not afrain to take 'em down when it matters! Hillary '08

Marilyn   March 5th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

I don't even know if i am in the right place for my comment, but here goes anyway. First of all Hillary pilcked her self up through all the bad press and made a come back and the press is bashing her again it isn't just her seeing it everyone has been seeing it all along. I have been in chat rooms on line and people talk about it and personally all the press has done is made it where if they get there golden boy the nomination he won't win anyway cause most of the Hillary supporters are talking about cross over and voting for McCain. I personally was planning to vote with whoever got it until the press made me where i thought i would heave if I heard any more praises about Obama, and now I will not vote for him I will vote for McCain and that is also the buzz online too. Thanks I just needed to get that off my chest.

Casey, Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

LisaMpls- the best suggestion.
Kris- why don't you ask him yourself, since no one else cares why!

Amy in Iowa   March 5th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Bill wanted a third term. Hillary want to give her man what he wants.

Dianne   March 5th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

Why should Bill Clinton have to be "careful" with what he says? It is because the media, Solidad in particular who are so eager to attach everything that he says

How soon we forget what Bill Clinton did for our country. While he was in office America experienced true peace and prosperity.

kelly   March 5th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Presidents don't have a darn thing to do about the economy except make it worse with higher taxes on corporations and drive them out of the country.
They should fix the s.s. problems before they add any more failed ones like medicare, etc.
Obama is a far left anti american liberal socialist pandering empty suit.
Hillary is a coniving power hungry egotist. Both Clintons are corrupt.
Wonder if she would return the stuff they stole from the Whitehouse.
Bill didn't do anything as President. Didn't even do as charged to protect us which is the president in Chiefs main job.
The Obama fad is over. 3/4 the country hate the Clintons. Some choice.
So, we sit back and watch them bloody them selves up until the convention. Republicans voted for them in the primaries for a reason. They won't in the general.
I wonder how many illegals voted in TX.
I won't bother watching the spin for 8 more months.
First Laddy for the answer.

terry   March 5th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

We already know who wears the pants in that family.

End of story.

DianeD   March 5th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

As much as I love Bubba, the less vocal he is regarding his wife's running, the better off Hillary is.

PATHHHHHHETIC   March 5th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

GDOUGlas,

what about the women voting their gender and racist latinos voting against a black candidate??? Your point makes no sense...

KC Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Why is Hillary being blamed for "nasty politics" when she simply brought out the truth about Obama's senior economic advisor talking to the Canadians and Obama lying about it? And the so-called "red phone call" brought out the fact that she feels she has more experience than Obama? Maybe that phone will ring with the information that there is another "Katrina" hitting the USA. Who do you want to deal with that kind of catastrophe? It didn't necessarily mean we were being attacked by a foreign country. I think we all remember what Bush did on 9-11, sat there looking stupid for almost 10 minutes!! Both were legitimate points.

Doug   March 5th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

It makes me laugh when I hear the Obama comments saying how great this guy is. He's someone who has shown that he runs and hides when his neck is on the line. Hillary is shown to be the real leader here. She and Obama is in the race for thier lives and it is almost even and she is doing it on almost half the amount of money Obama is. Another thing is when I hear that this is not a racial election. Wrong. When you have people calling up Africian American superdelates and threaten them or tell them they will be a part of history( CNN news story), and when you get a very well known radio host (Texas) himself saying our people are coming out in support of Obama. I don't know what is more racial than that.

Haighter   March 5th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I feel a great deal of empathy lately toward Bill... He's being "controlled" by the Hillary people like the CNN moderators seem to be "'controlling" my comments here on the Political Ticker! (and honestly, they are very on topic, are not what I consider "rants", and contain no vulgarities)

Casey, Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

What a great man. What a great human being. What a great American, and I have no doubt, he has always been proud to be an American. I will always be a Clinton fan.

Goodheart   March 5th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Young Democrats...... the 90's were great for this country. Everyone had jobs, the economy was booming, and the world respected us. Former President Clinton is a very smart man and had this country on track. Give Hillary a chance. Go Hillary!

Jay Graham, Dallas, TX   March 5th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Bill's initial remarks about Obama's "fairy tale" were blown out of proportion and misrepresented by the media. It was media who labelled Hillary's campaign as negative attacks gave Obama an undue advantage. If media had played a fair game and treated both Hillary and Obama without bias, by this time Hillary had won the nomination. But, its not late yet! Bill should defend his wife on issues and get her on top.

Chantay   March 5th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Mad in Texas, crawl back into the woods you came out of. That type of talk is ignorant, disrespectful and disgraceful. How dare you call anyone names. And, furture more who cares about your thoughts?

Sri   March 5th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

There is absolutely no doubt that Bill was the BEST President for United States so far. I strongly agree with gdouglas. Hillary would make a better President than McCain or Obama – no question about it – and YES she is going to be the President Of United States and we will see that happen. Go Hillary!

Ike   March 5th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

Nice work Mr. President, I had the opportunity to meet you in Houston and it was a very pround moment for me. CNN please take Jack Cafferty of the air, he's a disgrace to an already disgraced network.

votingtruth   March 5th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

African American's should support Obama. He is a terrific candidate. It is time we have a person of color in the Oval office. 200+ years of white male reign is about to end.

From a converted Republican...voting for Obama. ....08

Curious   March 5th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Actually, that sounds about right, "Mrs and Mr President".... that would work out really well now that I think about it. Thanks!

Mark - Gilbert, AZ   March 5th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

That hypocritical, vindictive woman known as Hillary Clinton will keep him tied up in that closet where he's currently stumbling over the bones from her skeletons. Why else do you think he wasn't on stage with her at her speech on Tuesday? HE'S TIED UP!!! Call him whatever you want because it makes no difference.

Oh, and for those of you who loved our economy because of Bill, be wary, there are some serious scandals surrounding our Social Security and his dipping into it so he can boost the economy and pay down the national debt. Now look at what we have to look forward to...

Texas4Obama   March 5th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

When is the media going to release the number of Republicans that voted for Clinton in Ohio and Texas - Rush Limbaugh told them to go out and vote for Clinton so that he could ruin the Democratic party !!! I am ashamed that I live in a country that would allow this to happen!
Shame on you Rush and shame on you Clinton for playing dirty politics!

George   March 5th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

Bill Clinton for President!

Puddytat   March 5th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

DON'T SAY ANYTHING BAD ABOUT OUR FIRST GENTLEMAN ! ! !

What I want to know is if he will only come out to show off the obscenely expensive CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS AND COOKIES LIKE LAURA does during a failing economy to depressed citizens at Christmas time?

Do you think he will go all the way around the world like Laura to tell Arab ladies that our ladies think it's nice to show more skin ... they should show some tooo ?

Cheryl   March 5th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Hillar and bill needs to take a step back and think about the American people. Hillary is getting nasty and it is not very becoming. I think she wants to get back into the white house to prove to bill that she is better than he is. And by the way Hillary you are running for president not a beauty contest! Wipe that constant smirk off your face when you do it, its almost as if you are saying I am high and mighty and I am above you all!

KC Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

RE-Rom, NY..African Americans are voting over 80% for Obama!! What group is voting anywhere close to that for Hillary?

GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT!!!!

Michael M   March 5th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Is anyone else sick of the inftuation and acceptance of dynasties in our once-great Republic?

If you think the Clinton's aren't striving for a third term as co-presidents you are naiive indeed.

Dan   March 5th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

He's a master politician and is a good person, the reporters who critisize him are sympathetic loosers, in other words they are jealous to see someone achieve what they would have like themselves to achieve but couldn't. The Obama campaign used the race card against the president who helped the african american the most , the pres. who decided to have his office in harlem to be among friends was being trash as a racsist by reporters and commentators, this was a very sad day in the media. Do they dislike the deficit he eliminated or the surplus he left, or the 23,000,000 jobs created under his presidency, or the peace he brokered in Northern Ireland, or the people he helped in Kosovo take back their homes and all the posts he gave to minorities in his administration??? Becareful who you trash!!!!! Karma

Michael M   March 5th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Is anyone else sick of the inftuation and acceptance of dynasties in our once-great Republic?

If you think the Clinton's aren't striving for a third term as co-presidents you are naiive indeed.

Vince - Phoenix   March 5th, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Even in victory... look at the nasty comments by Hillary supporters...

even in victory.....

(sigh)

TBeene   March 5th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Responding to gdouglas:
Yes, you are right, SOME african americans voted for Obama because he is an african american but most WHITE people didn't vote for him because he is african american. So that goes both ways. As far as the Clintons just what did they do for black people that they didn't do for white people. You're speaking as if we are so type of charity case. I've watched Obama, Clinton, and even McCain daily and with McCain, nothing will ever change. Clinton and her camp are always bashing Obama and he stills comes out and act calm, does not talk bad about her, or put out scandals on her. Yes, we as African Americans are very proud that an African American has made it to the point where we have a chance to not only vote, but run for a political office. Like it or not its always going to be a white and black issue in almost everything because we are constantly reminded that we are BLACK.

Ronald, American living abroad   March 5th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

What do the Clintons have to hide? Why isn't Bill saying who contributed to his Presidential Library? Why aren't the Clinton's releasing their income tax returns? What are they hiding?

Why is CNN hiding the positive news about Obama's victory in Texas total delegate count?

sfa   March 5th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

I am a Nigerian and i strongly feel the blacks are terribly racial in this elections( especial on the democratic primaries). They should therefore not shout on top of thier voices on racial issues.In every contest blacks consistently vote for obama. I think this is ridiculous and racial on the side of blacks. I hope but not pray that if Obama become the president blacks will not see it as pay back or whatever time. Blacks vote for solution not sentiment.

Darren   March 5th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

gdouglas you need to mind your own Canadian business

Obama will be the Best President America will ever have!
and.blacks are not voting because he's black....who in their right mind or skin color would not vote for Obama ? lol This is definitely not about race to Blacks, atleast blacks with sense....Blacks don't need a savior but we all need a Government that does it's job equally and fairly....that said he cannot and will not win on the black vote...but it does help..

too bad the latinos don't know what's good for them...

Ken in Western NY   March 5th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Slinkybender – I'm with you!!

Although I don't think that it matters because Hillary won't get the nomination in the first place, and just for some strange reason she did, the majority of voting Americans don't like her (I think the average poll had between 50 and 55 %) – so they'll vote for McCain.

The Superdelegates need to vote for the candidate that the district they represent (if they're an elected official, that is). It's only right.

Agree or disagee : Superdelegate process should be abolished?

LB   March 5th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

If you'll notice, Michelle Obama has been quieter lately too. And does McCain's other half, ever speak?? I guess all of the spouses are ducking for cover...

Farrell, Houston, Tx   March 5th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Bill's been doing a great job behind the scenes. Hillary has none of the experience that she talks about, she's the puppet, Bills pulling the strings.

Jenny   March 5th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Bill Clinton-The greatest president of U.S.A

I hope to see your wife to be the president in 2008!

God bless your whole family!

Hillary 2008 GOGOGO

ACitizen   March 5th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

He has to be referred to as Mr. President, like all our former Presidents are...

It is amazing how a much a western nation like ours is hung up on gender stuff... grow up US, rest of the world has has female head of states for decades.

As to the afro-american votes, I went to a caucus in TX last night... I was astounded by the number of afro-americans that showed up to support Obama.

The Clintons have served this country well, given a chance, they will do it again. In the last twenty four years, it was only under the Clinton administration that the size of US government shrank, and the economy grew leaps and bounds!!!!

D.Kimbro OHIO   March 5th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

In response to gdouglas, you are not a citizen of this country, and have no idea, what you are talking about. The black race doesnt owe anything to the Clintons. They did what all politicians do, appeal to a group that they need at the time. I do believe his comments turned many voters against him. I am sure this wont get posted, but this is another in a long line of racially motivated post from you. GROW UP!!!

Shannon   March 5th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

He'll just be referred to as [former] President Clinton

Rebecca AZ   March 5th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

Wolf,
Hillary Clinton is a Goldilocks Story.
McCain is too hot for war and way too far to the right. Obama is too unknown, not experienced enough and too far to the left.
And Hillary, well she is just Right.
Hillary is in the middle of McCain and Obama.
Not too much to the far right, not too much to the far left . Hillary is not too soft and she’s not too hard, she’s not a rookie and she’s not too old. Not too hot , and she’s not too cold!
Hillary is just right for President.

Cindy   March 5th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

The last time he got in trouble, he was baited into taking a swing at an Obama supporter. While the supporter was wrong for baiting him, Clinton was more wrong for taking the bait. He's being more careful about that stuff now, that's all.

Is he still the same arrogant, lyin, cheatin, loose cannon that'll do or say anything to move back into that white house on Pennsylvania Ave? I'm sure he is. He's just being more careful about shooting his cannon.

KC Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

Come on people!!! Enough of this sexist talk about what Bill would be called. The simple fact is the people who are making fun of it have the old gender bias when it comes to having a woman President. How about simply Madam President's Husband?

Russell   March 5th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

It is extremely racist to vote for someone because of their race, because you are simply not voting for someone else solely because of their race. It looks as though some have looked behind the curtain and exposed the wizard.

Dan (TX)   March 5th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

After watching him stump for Hillary last Sun. night in Abilene, TX, my wife and I commented about how much of his speech still focused on "me" and "my accomplishments in the 90s."

He still is a great used-car salesman! He did an outstanding job of saying "if you have 2 kids, you'll GET universal healthcare." What he forgot to mention was that it'll be MANDATORY and you will be REQUIRED to PAY for it (except for the very poor.) It's amazing how good all of Hillary's proposals sound when Bill omits certain facts.

For the Hillary campaign:

If Hillary's UNIVERSAL Health Care plan is so good, will she give up her current Congressional healthcare plan? Will every member of Congress, executive branch and judiciary branch be required to leave their current, "best in the world" healthcare plans and adopt Hillary's???? After all, if it's good enough for all other Americans, shouldn't it be good enough for Washington??

Also what happens to the military who are covered by the TRICARE system? Will we have to abandon that too?

Will her UNIVERSAL health coverage plan be available to ONLY US CITIZENS???

Since her plan is MANDATORY, why should any US company offer any private, optional healthcare plans? Gotta laugh, but I think all of the union workers just lost their current benefits from GM, Ford, etc.

What makes her think that doctors and surgeons will continue to practice medicine when their fees are set and payments are months late?

Yep, we'll all have universal healthcare – limited to aspirin, Entex and a few bandages. :) You can forget about the US Government footing the bill for state-of-the-art medical treatment!

Kris   March 5th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

It is time for Bill and Hiliary Clinton to tell the World why and under what circumstances Bill pardoned Marc Rich.

California Dreamin is Back   March 5th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

You got that right Bill W., to us Clintons supporters, they are perfect. I am pretty sure that your Messiah OBAMA is your savior.

Please stop with your stupidity... Now your just talking out of you A#&

Rom, NY   March 5th, 2008 6:11 pm ET

To gdouglas
It's not fair when black people vote overwhelmingly for Obama but it's fair when Latino vote overwhelmingly for Clinton, is it your point ???
And also what about old people 60++ vote overwhelmingly for Clinton ??
And most of the time women vote overwhelmingly for Clinton ??.
If your point is related to the racial card are you suggesting that the sex card is less serious that than race card???

The same way if latino people didn't vote overwhelmingly for Clinton in California where there are more pledge delegates than any other states she would obviously be far behind Obama at the delegate count ...

Get your facts right my friend !!

KC Atlanta   March 5th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

I can't think of a more exciting concept for this country than having Hillary Clinton for President and Bill Clinton as her personal advisor!!! He was the most brilliant man to serve as this nations President. Millions of Americans remember how much better off we were when Bill was running the show, and as people go the polls that is in the back of their mind, whether they admit it out loud or not.!!!!!!

Chris   March 5th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

WAKE UP PEOPLE. DON'T VOTE FOR ANOTHER FRAUD LIKE BUSH. If Clinton win, there will be another 4 years of Bush. Clintons donors are no different than Bush's donors.

Judging from her campaign, we know Hillary can't manage her campaign let alone the whole country. Obama's campaign is a lot more organized and stable. I for one, am voting for Obama because he have exhibited experience and maturity unlike Clinton who was negative from the beginning.

Lets wake up and not elect another Clinton or Bush (BUSH = CLINTON)

Obama is going to change the country.

By any computation, she can't get enough delegates to catch Obama with the primaries that are left. She has zero chance of overtaking him. She's bluffing, praying for a miracle, or – more likely – in total denial.

But she's toast. So dream on if you like, it keeps us all amused.

OBAMA 08

LisaMpls   March 5th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

Curious, maybe the answer to your question can be found by figuring out what husbands of female governors are called. I have no idea, but it's a thought.

Lisa CA   March 5th, 2008 6:09 pm ET

I am very disappointed that Bill Clinton has to hide to support his wife, because of all the attacks he unfairly received from the media and the Obama campaign.

Michelle Obama does not have to stay in the background and it is not right that she doesn't receive the same scrutiny of her words that Bill Cinton has recieved.

I also agree with gdouglas. Clinton was the greatest President I have every had the privelege of voting for and he did all of this while under a microscope by the Republicans.

If Hillary is just Half the President Bill Clinton was, were a going to be a lucky nation to have her in the White House!!!!

Miguel   March 5th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

First of all gdouglas, the black community does not owe Clinton anything. The choice for blacks is between an elite woman of privilege or an African American man from a single mother. So the issue is beyond just race. If you want to talk about the race factor then we can talk about the racist right wing media attacks from Sean Hannity or Hillary Clinton's insinuation that Obama somehow welcomed Farrakhan's support. To suggest black people are not thinking with their "heads" is ludicrous, Oh and by the way, Obama has more white supporters than blacks in terms of sheer numbers and lets not forget Iowa which put his campaign on the map. Those were middle american WHITE voters who gave his campaign its jumpstart.

LisaMpls   March 5th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

I agree. Bill seems to be doing a great job lately of staying positive and supporting Hillary. Keep it up!!

Omar   March 5th, 2008 6:07 pm ET

First Man would be my guess? lol...it doesn't matter what he's called though he'll still hold the same position and power that all the First Lady's before him have had.

GEORGIA ohio   March 5th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

thanks to all the conservative that help hillary staying in the race democracy have been served hillary called rush and thanks him in person and told him to keep it up tell she win the nomination so there legacy want be damaged by been beaten in your own party
MCCAIN will beat hillary by LANDSLIDE mark my words.

REP voted in DEM TEXAS and OHIO Primary arond 10 to 15% of the total vote do the math JUST enough to put mrs clinton on top[ by few pts but not delegates....

Eric   March 5th, 2008 6:05 pm ET

Isnt it hilary who is running and not bill? gdouglas your talking about the past and a whole different candidate, at least thats what Hilary has been saying to the media that its her running, she would call the shots not bill. Plus This is 2008 and things are way different then the 90's.

slinkybender   March 5th, 2008 6:05 pm ET

Curious –

Calling him The First Man is out, as that would outrage the Fundamentalists.

Calling him the First Gentlemen would similarly outrage the country's dwindling supply of true gents.

How about calling him The Second Impeached President (or "SIMP" for short)?

Vince Los Angeles, CA   March 5th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Mr Canadian ("I'm gonna add my two cents even though I have no idea what I'm talking about")......FYI.....people have been voting for WHITE candidates in this country for the past 200 years!~! Barack Obama is NOT the first black candidate to run for the presidency. He happens to be the FIRST black candidate to actually have a really good chance of winning because he isn't just "walking the walk"...

I don't see Americans adding their two cents when your country holds it's elections......Kindly keep your nose out of ours!!

montag   March 5th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

"but if he isn't the "First Lady" then what would he be called if Hillary was President?"

'First Gentleman'? How about 'First Dude" or, better yet, 'First Bubba'?

LatinoNation   March 5th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

I Like Bill :)

Rose - Baltimore, MD   March 5th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

Curious, he'll be called the "1st Lady-man."

Patricia J. Griffin   March 5th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

COngratulations to Mr. Bill for keeping a lower profile. His earlier approach was a little worrisome. I am all for a ticket of Obama-Clinton and who cares who is on the top. Which ever way, we could have a Democrat in office for the next sixteen years. That is an awesome thought.

Annamica, OH   March 5th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

First Gentleman

John Huynh   March 5th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

He's a person too...

Ardnuas   March 5th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Wait until he gets back into the Whitehouse, you WILL see the same old Clintons acting the same old way they did in the 90's......Fighting with the Republicans ..... and all the OTHER things they did... it will be on the hands of the voters who voted for them !!!
OBAMA/EDWARDS08 Si Se Puede

Bill W   March 5th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

But just wait and see what happens if she becomes the nominee. I'm already waiting for the debates to begin about "Can Bill Clinton be vice president?" Apparently, the constitution doesn't apply if your name is Clinton.

Curious   March 5th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

I'm just curious, not trying to be rude here, but if he isn't the "First Lady" then what would he be called if Hillary was President?

gdouglas   March 5th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

As a Canadian I am quite confident in saying this man is the best President the USA has had in a long time. The country was in great economic shape when he was President. Its quite obvious now that the black community is turning thier back on a man who did great things for them. he walked the walk he just didnt talk the talk, From an outsiders view Mr Obama would not have nearly as many delegates had the black communioty not voted for him due to him being black as well. it seems they are voting on a racial point of view only not who is the best candidate. If white were to vote for Clinton due to race the black community would be shouting from the roof tops that the election is not fair. Come on America vote the best use your brain not your heart

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