March 11, 2008
Posted: 05:25 PM ET

(CNN) – Clinton Campaign Manager Maggie Williams said Tuesday that Obama campaign is making "false, personal and politically calculated attacks" over supporter Geraldine Ferraro's controversial comment that the Illinois senator is only in contention because of his race.

"This campaign should be about the leadership we need for a better future and these attacks serve only to divide the Democratic Party and the American people," Williams said in a statement sent to reporters.

Ferraro, the Democratic Party's vice presidential nominee in 1984, told the (Torrance, California) Daily Breeze that "If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position. And if he was a woman he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept."

The Williams statement came a few hours after Obama senior strategist David Axelrod told reporters that Ferraro's recent remarks were part of "an insidious pattern that needs to be addressed."

"When you wink and nod at offensive statements you're really sending a signal to your supporters that anything goes," he also said.

Obama himself also issued a statement on the Ferraro's comments Tuesday afternoon, calling them divisive and 'patently absurd.'

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


John D   March 11th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

Clinton Campaign Manager Maggie Williams said Tuesday that Obama campaign is making "false, personal and politically calculated attacks"

Wow !!!!!!!!!!, This is exactly what Billary campaign is doing, making "false, personal and politically calculated attacks" on Obama.

Southerner   March 11th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

So it's racist of Ferraro to suggest race plays a part in the "obama phenomenon", but it's not racial that Obama is talking about being "bamboozled and hoodwinked" and falling for "okeydoke".

Am I supposed to believe that the invokation of Malcolm X would have been equally successful, if Obama were another race? Seriously?

mark   March 11th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Ferraro was a loser in '84 and she's still a loser, and obviously still bitter.
Why do we even give credence to statements from irrelevant has-beens?

Barb   March 11th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Tried of all the games. Geraldine Ferraro' s is just stating 'poorly' that the black population is voting for Obama because he is black. Watching all the primaries and caucuses. The channels all are saying the same thing. In the major black areas he is get more than 90% of the votes. In the white areas only about 50%. I know a co-worker who voted for Clinton ( our voted hasn't counted yet) and has been defending Clinton's for at least 5 years to a Republican co-worker Now that he see Obama has a chance to win, he has changed is mind and is for Obama. I told him I believe that Obama is getting the black votes because he is black and he said we all go for our own race and I told him that not true with the white as Obama has 50% of white votes. To many people vote to get on the band wagon and do not even watch or know what the candidates stand for and everyone is afraid to state the truth. Stating that he is getting votes because he is black, is very different then calling someone a monster.

concern citizen   March 11th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

I find is amusing that people are stating that a White male or female with Obama's record will be laughed at. Bill Clinton was that White male in 1992 when he ran for president. I am a supporter of Bill Clinton, but to be objective he had no experience when he ran for the presidency. He was governor of a small state. Obama has more experience than Bill legislatively when he ran for president. He is in the foreign relations committee and co-sponsered many bills in the state and federal level. When Bill ran in 1992 people believed his lack of experience was a positive. Daddy Bush had all of this experience and made bad decisions. I don't understand the double standards.

NEVEROBAMA   March 11th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

ONCE AGAIN AFRICAN AMERICANS UP IN A ROAR BECUASE THEY USED RACE. WHY SHOULD THE CLINTON CAMPAING APPOLOGIZE THIS IS THE TRUTH AND PEOPLE ARE GETTING SICK OF THE RACE CARD BY THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AFRICAN AMERICANS ANNOUNCING ON CNN THEY WILL DO A BLOCK VOTE IF THE NOMINATION IS STOLEN FROM OBAMA – HOW CAN SOMETHING BE STOLEN IF IT WAS NEVER GIVEN TO HIM?WAKE UP AMERICA!!!

IT IS GETTING OLD LETS PICK A CANDIDATE WITH EXPERIENCE AND TRUE LEADERSHIP

GO HILLARY
GO HILLARY
GO HILLARY

sharon   March 11th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

I realize you have to turn her away but i for one am delighted that someone finally told the facts which is something the men reporting the news i have been watching are affraid to!!!everyone knows that is the truth i just amazes me even Obama knows this thats why his wife thinks she can say whatever she wants and not have to worry about what she says how can you put a woman in the white house that thinks she is above AMERICA!!!!!

Independent   March 11th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Why do you only hear from Maggie on racial matters?????????

Cindy   March 11th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Shame on Ferraro. She should know better than to pull the race card. People of all colors, and of both genders, are voting for Obama because they think he's the better candidate. I guess from her point of view, I must be betraying my gender, then?

I vote for the one I like, regardless of color or gender. Enough of this old style politiking, old style way of thinking. We need a new face to break the paradigm. And Hillary Clinton ain't it.

Misanthropicus, CA   March 11th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

All things considered, Ferraro is right. Whatever baggage Hillary Clinton carries (and she's gotten quite some), Obama got an "affirmative action", free ride from media, who let him fly shielding him from any criticism or comment (the H-word), despite his BIG gaffes foreign policy-wise, despite his agenda which contains nothing but generalities camouflaging his stark (and irresponsible) ambition. Certes, America and the world is now going through very difficult political moments, but these moments are in large extent caused by globalization, not by the US policy or Carl Rove's demonic acts. "Hope and change!" in these times when steadfastness and continuity should be guiding light for this nation, the liberals have hatched and are nurturing a superficial figure whose eventual election will push us in bigger problems. Hope and change! Have a hard look at the map of the world and consider the rough waters we are sailing through – hopefully Obama's followers will understand that an incompetent affirmative action president is not what we need now.

What am I missing?   March 11th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Come on people-
Early on in this campaign it was Obama and his supporters that played the race card.
They tried to depict Bill Clinton's S Carolina comment- a simple and true observation- as racist.
That gave Obama a boost that he has ridden to get here.
Would he be where he is without having played the emotional race card?

Darwin   March 11th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

I guess its time for Maggie Williams and Geraldine Ferraro to go.

josiah   March 11th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

obama take guts and you will win.let racist keep there comments they cant change voters minds,thats why ferraro lost nominations at there time.Obama rule America,be blessed.

SHERYLANNE   March 11th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Well, Obama is claiming he is African American (because of his father, who is from Kenya, and left when he was 2 yrs old) and was raised by his white mother and white grandparents. Never has he mentioned this or considered himself bi-racial and in his book he writes:

From "Dreams of My Father, " I FOUND A SOLACE IN NURSING A PERVASIVE SENSE OF GRIEVANCE AND ANIMOSITY AGAINST MY MOTHER'S RACE".

From 'Dreams of my Father', "The emotion between the races could never be pure….. the other race would always remain just that: menacing, alien, and apart."

From 'Dreams of My Father',
"I ceased to advertise my mother's race at the age of 12 or 13, when I began to suspect that by doing so I was ingratiating myself to whites"

Obama (and his wife) are the one playing the race card the minute he declared himself an African Christian man.

Andrew   March 11th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

What she said is politically incorrect. But it's not racist.

And there may be some truth to it too.

Darin   March 11th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

The only reason that we know the name of Geraldine Ferraro is because she is a white woman. We must consider that Jesse Jackson had received the third most popular votes for the democratic nomination 21% but, received only 8% of the votes at the convention. Walter Mondale added her as his running mate in an attempt to appear progressive hoping by adding a woman to the ticket that African-American and white women would stand behind the party following its clearly un-democratic and racist actions at the convention. It only worked for white women. Until Senator Obama’s win Iowa many African-American’s including myself felt that was no in the Democratic Party for us. Yes, Reverend Jackson ran as a Democrat in 1988 but, there was little evidence that the outcome would be any different and our support was in hopes of sending a message to the party, I am not sure that they got it. It is clear that African-American’s were not fooled by Mondale’s pandering to the female vote by nominating Ferraro and that Ferraro would not have been selected if she were a man. It appears that many of the Clinton’s and their supporters are no more prepared to unite the party today than was Mondale in 1984.

Darin Independent voter in Maryland.

Drew in Cali   March 11th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

Obama needs to toughen up and stop whining. How will he ever deal with the Republican hate machine? Can you just imagine if Ferraro had called Obama a "MONSTER" just goes to show that you can bash women but don't dare offend a black person. Give me a break.

B. Smart   March 11th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

. . . .It is sad and telling of an ugly segment of America that has not died when Senator Obama
is the only candidate that has to defend his race..You can tell when Hillary is going into states where she thinks she
can exploit race. Thank goodness that Senator Obama's supporters
are not voting by race, but intelligence on the issues, as seen in his diverse pool of
voters. The majority of Senator Obama supporters are voting intelligence
on the issues. Voters of ALL races are supporting Senator Obama. As
we've seen in G. W. Bush, a person's race doesn't determine
intelligence.

Anonymous   March 11th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

hillary will do anything to win. she has experience by proxy. I cannot claim to have medical experience because I am married to a doctor why should hillary claim experience

Mr. Bilek   March 11th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

The Clintons campaign machine demonstrates clearly that they are ready well before Day One to replicate the Rove/Cheney/Bush machine.

C. Wilson   March 11th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

G. Ferraro was making a point about media coverage. Read the whole article. It wasn't a great thing to say, but that wasn't the point she was making.

Obama's campaign says race isn't an issue, but if Hillary is out campaigning in a black suit, then everyone calls it racism. Obama's pastor says all kinds of racist remarks against white people. Should Obama renounce him? His marriage?

What everyone seems to forget is Obama is only 50% black. You can't say you are cousins to Dick Cheney, where's my trust fund in one sentence, and then cry foul when someone tries to point out a possible reason as to why the press loves Obama. It isn't because of his resume.

So, let's all get off the silly wagon and act like the adults you all are claiming to be.

Judge not, lest ye be judged. Let's have a political election and let's go. This other crap has to stop.

Dem from Indiana

Young Rep   March 11th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

I don't consider Ferraro's comments to be racist. I think it's called thinking outside the box and looking at the citiation in a bigger prospective. He Obama was white he wouldn't be in the same position. Personally, I don't consider him black or white(I only consider him black sense that's how he describes himself)… I would describe him as being bi-racial. Sense he has a white mother and black father. Obama is involved in the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC)… who wouldn't allow a white rep. from tennesse to join even though 60% of his constituents are African American. Look it up!! BY THE WAY CAN AN OBAMA SUPPORT PLEASE EXPLAIN WHY HE BELONGS TO THE (CBC) AND HOLDS NO LEADERSHIP OR HEADS ANY PART OF IT. DOESN'T MAKE SENSE RIGHT?

We as humans tend to only see and hear things we want to hear while blocking out those things we wish not to know. Think About it!!!

Barack Obama Supporter from Lawrence Kansas   March 11th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

So Ferraro makes a stupid, racisit comment, and the Clinton campaign has the GALL to blame the Obama campaign?

I don't get it.

Craig in Texas Democrat and supporter for Obama   March 11th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Its funny cause i go through the same kind of foolish racism. Like since Barrack is black he is only where he is by luck. I am African American why is it so hard to believe that a Black man can
make it to a position of power by his skill and determination. Not to mention over half the country who supported him by voting. Ferrero you are a idiot and you should be ashamed of yourself. Lou Dobbs leave Obama alone cause he will be your next President.

Monica   March 11th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

Ferraro's comments are directed at forcing a national dialogue on the current state of race relations in America. It is obvious to many that Obama lacks the experience necessary to be president of the United States.
Why then is he doing so well in the primaries?
Could it be perhaps that by favoring his candidacy we feel less guilty toward the painful racial history of this country?

Slap Stick, FLORIDA   March 11th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

When I see or hear others condoning racist remarks, it is no wonder folks like Louis Farrakhan makes the comments he makes about America. Many of us as Americans are giving fuel to his very argument when we allow folks like Ferraro to make comments like she has made.

Annie   March 11th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

Chicano Art,

Are you ashamed of your culture then? What do you mean by an inferior candidate? It's inferior people like you that the people in the United States should be ashamed of.

Iyke   March 11th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

An aphorism says: "Tell me who you go with and I will tell you what you are." Maggie Williams has been in bed with the Clintons for a long time and it is no wonder that she, like them, will do or say anything to get the Clintons elected. To think that Maggie Williams, who should have been sensitive to years of racism in this country as a black person, will explicitly endorse Ferraro's comments that Obama is an affirmative action candidate, is absurd. I will organize for McCain and vote for him if Hillary is our nominee. Shame on Hillary! Shame on Ferraro!! Shame on Maggie Williams!!!

Cynthia Hilton-Wade   March 11th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

I am confused about exactly what Maggie is ranting about. How is this statement made by Ferraro, apart of the Clinton camp, "false, personal and politically calculated attacks" by the Obama camp? Did Ferraro make the statement or not? If she made the statement, and according to the Daily Breeze she did where is the rebuke? And why are we not hearing an apology instead of the BS comment.

I believe this whole campaign needs to get back to the issues and that I have enough of the personal attacks, politics as usual. I believe that everything that the Clinton camp does is tactical, enough already. The Clinton camp say "We ought to keep this on the issues. There are differences between us. There are differences between our approaches on health care, on energy, on our experience, on our results that we've produced for people. That's what this campaign should be about."

And they are correct but they say that after she makes sucker punches, (hit and run, or when the other person is caught off guard) or when one of her gimmicks, whining, rhetoric doesn't work. If you did a poll on who started the division within the democratic campaign Hillary Clinton would win hands down. ENOUGH!!

Margaret Navarrete   March 11th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Hillary should ask Geraldine Ferraro and others to keep their mouths shut. But realistically she won't, want all of the media attention. Well I hope the voters will wipe her out today in Mississippi.
As far as the dream ticket, I don't think Barack would want her on his team, she is too damm pushy, divisive, not a good choice. From California we are counting on Barack to win.

Objective voter   March 11th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

It isn't about color- but it is about how Obama advanced his campaign by playing the race card early on and successfully shifting public sentiment and thus election results in his favor.

Who cares about race? But we DO care about fair play and making false accusations to eliminate your competition. Like painting both Clintons as racist. Right. But it worked to Obama's advantage.

Hillary is the one who got sabotaged by racial allegations and by negative media coverage and by corrupt DNC "rules".

PeterO   March 11th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Ferraro and Mondale won exactly one state in the 1984 general election. She's about as interesting and important as the half can of dried paint in my garage.

Keep it up Gerry, Hillary, and Maggie… the more moronic comments like this can only help bring your campaign to a quick end.

J in CO   March 11th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

She says "If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position," but if Hillary's last name wasn't Clinton, she'd be a nobody, too.

Sunny   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Ferraro's comment was racist. Why don't the talking heads just admit it? They keep dancing around this fact. Bill Clinton and all the presidents before him were elected BECAUSE they were white. It is called white privelege! Obama is where he is because he appeals to the best in people, and people of all colors share his vision and value his experience, intelligence and ability to unite. If he were white, no one would even bother to say he is where he is because he is white.

Shame on Ferraro. Shame on Clinton for using wimpy language. Shame on the political pundits for not calling them both racist.

Sue   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Geraldine Ferraro was not speaking on behalf of the Clinton campaign when she made the statement about Obama. She should not have said what she said, but she was reacting to the extraordinary amount of bias and sexism against Hillary Clinton.

While I think that this country will elect a black president in my lifetime, I think it will be many decades before this country will be ready to elect a woman. It's really too bad because I think Hillary knows better than anyone running what needs to be done to fix the problems of this country.

Chris11   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

What she said is true. All the polls and results show it is about race. The African Americans are voting for him in too high a percentage to be looking at the issues only because we all know the thought process is more diverse than 90% / 10%. If Hillary had his opinion and issues and he had hers, then I would bet money on it that the African Americans would still overwhelmingly vote for him… too bad the truth hurts, I just hope it doesn't end up harming this country.

Dave from NY   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

I guess Ferraro has a point, considering that she would not have been on Mondale's ticket had she been a man.

She is right: If Obama were not a Black man, he wouldn't have got all those Black votes in Iowa and upset Hillary. He clearly could not have counted on all those Black voters in Vermont, Maine, Wyoming, Utah, Kansas, and Nebraska banding together and pushing him over the top there either.

I guess Ferraro is still delirious and her head is still spinning from the whupping that Ragan laid on her and her man Mondale.

Steph, Philadelphia   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Obama is not where he is because he is black, he is where he is because he is "brilliant".

Hilda Olson   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

I am a whte female VP of a major not for profit, with a Masters degree and substantial salary. Many of the bills Hillary Clinton has supported have helped foster children and the vulnerable. However, if she wins the nomination, I will vote for McCain. Her personal character, made clear in her whining, sniping, and her willingness to undermine the Democratic party at large for personal gain has turned my stomach. When the right female comes along, they will have my vote. Whoever is citing polls that claim educated white women are voting for Hillary better take a closer look. In my wide circle of white, college educated (and beyond) group of women doctors, lawyers and CEO's, we are unified in our support of Obama.

Mitch   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Say what?? Typical (and really sad) Clinton spin tactics, trying to place blame on the Obama campaign for denouncing Ferraro's inexcusable race-baiting.

Amused   March 11th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

When will CNN start reporting accurately instead of twisting words? Ms. Ferraro's statement, ripped from context was: “If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position. And if he was a woman (of any color) he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept.”

However, Ms. Ferraro bookended her unfortunate comments with two sound observations: 1) The media seem to dislike Clinton largely because of her gender, and 2) Obama is foolish to suggest that he will end partisanship. “Dear God!” she said. “Anyone that has worked in the Congress knows that for over 200 years this country has had partisanship—that's the way our country is.”

Why were these not accurately and completely reported? Why the need to selectively pick out a sentence or two?

BTW, I am a registered Republican who is going to vote for John McCain but am really amused that the media is taking sides when they should be reporting unbiased or at the very least, present a complete picture so that people can draw their own conclusions?

Unfortunately for our country, it is not just the politicians that are divisive but also the media. If there is no controversy, there is no 24×7 News – right CNN?

Angie   March 11th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Americans really do have short-term memories. What would people say if Hillary received 80% of the black vote? Not a single word! Just like when Bill received over 80% of the black vote! It's ironic that if the majority of black people vote for a white candidate, that's fine…but if they vote for a black candidate, they're racist. Yes, black people do have the capacity to overwhelmingly support who they feel is the best candidate, regardless of race. Why is it that SOME white people are so offended and concerned about black support for a black candidate when black voters have also shown that same support for inspirational white candidates in the past??? How quickly we forget. Blacks are part of the democratic base for a reason.

I can't believe that Hillary didn't reject Ferraro's comment after all that noise she raised about the "monster" comment! Enough with the double standards…

kelly WI   March 11th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

I wonder if people in the states that haven't had their primaries yet, are aware of this stuff and read the blogs.
Pelozis daughter is or was, married to Hillarys brother. I can't remember if that is the wife or ex wife who is mad at him for not paying child support. Any one here know about that?
I don't need to be p.c. She is a monster. and Ferraro is a witch, to put it mildly.

liz   March 11th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Ferraro does not work for Clinton Campaign she is a Dem. with an opinion. Should not allow her to have her opinion or are we going to throw away free speech for Obama. It might be differant if she was part the Clinton campaign.

Nancy, Oklahoma   March 11th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

For years persons of color have had to experience prejudice and racism. What Ferraro said is deplorable. Should persons of color be grateful because for the first time in our country a man of color has reached these extraordinary heights? If Obama had been a white man Hillary would have been blown out of the water a long time ago. Shame on you Maggie Williams. I pray the superdelates are making note of these ever so subtle racial statements.

Chiman   March 11th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

When 80-90% of african americans started voting for O (when they used to be in favour of Clintons in the recent past) – what message does this send out? Are Americans stupid to understand what is going on? Why does CNN and others report exit polls based on race? Is that not being racist?
I agree with Ferrerro's comments that the media is afraid of O due to his race and is giving him preferencial treatment.

jl   March 11th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

WHEN MAGGIE WAS FIRST HIRED(and before pics were posted to remind us of what she looked like), I TOLD MY HUSBAND THAT I BET MAGGIE WILLIAMS IS BLACK AND THAT THE CLINTON CAMPAIGN WILL USE HER TO DELIVER THEIR RACIST RANTS.

I WAS RIGHT.

REGARDLESS OF HER SKIN COLOR, MAGGIE WILLIAMS IS JUST AS WRONG AS THE CLINTON CAMPAIGN AND FERRARO FOR SPEAKING AND NOT DENOUNCING AND REJECTING SUCH VILE STATEMENTS.

Red   March 11th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Hey, Maggie, thanks a lot. No, really. Thank you for the further advancement of people of color in this country.

I wonder, what would you have said if Ferraro's comments had been directed at you? Would they be "false, calculated, political attacks" then? Hmmm? Enjoy your position. You've earned it.

Oh, and stop doing us favors, okay? You do know why you were brought into the forefront of the Clinton campaign, don't you? Think about that.

Rachel, Portland OR   March 11th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

Hey everybody!! Clinton supporters, Obama supporters (like myself), Democrats, everyone!!

Look…. Let's focus on supporting our candidate, not tearing down the other candidates. I see the same amount of Obama and Clinton supporters claiming the media has an AWFUL bias against their candidate. While I have my own thoughts on this, I'm going to call a draw on the bias of the media since so many people have differing views on it. I think everyone else should too.

What else.. Um.. OH! Let's be positive. In the end we need to be united! It'll be hard for me to vote for Hillary Clinton, but if that's what it comes down to.. I mean.. I guess that's what it will come down to.

JOHN   March 11th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

DAVID HUNTER LET ME TELL YOU WHAT SHE'S HIDING. HOW ABOUT TAKING $850,000 FROM HEALTH CARE LOBBIEST WHO WANTED NOTHING TO DO WITH UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE. YOU HILLARY LOVERS BETTER READ UP ON PAUL VS CLINTON A CALIF. CASE ABOUT THE CLINTONS TRYING TO HIDE OVER 700,000 DOLLARS IN CAMPAGIN CONTRIBUTIONS FROM A FELON PETER PAUL, HILLARY LIED TO THE WASHINGTON POST AND SAID SHE DIDN'T KNOW HIM, TWO DAYS LATER SHE WAS SENDING HIM A THANK YOU LETTER FOR DONATING TO HER CAMPAGIN. WHEN THE POST FOUND OUT SHE TRIED TO RETURN A $2000 CHECK FROM PAUL AT THE SAME TIME HER FIN. OFFICER TOLD PAUL TO TRANSFER $100,000 WORTH OF STOCK TO HER WORKING FOR FAMILIES GROUP. I TELL YOU THIS THING IS A MESS. BUT DON'T LISTEN TO ME READ IT FOR YOURSELF. MAYBE THIS IS WHY SHE WONT RELEASE HER TAXES…YOU THINK?

enomisa   March 11th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

I think Barack is a contenter only due to celebrity support providing much exposure, extremely positive coverage by the media, while Clinton was constantly bashed by the media, the caucus system favoring his demographic support group, and the illegal actions of the DNC by preventing votes to count and by changing the intended function of the superdelegates to favor Obama.

Dan   March 11th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Is she going to argue next that african-americans in college shouldn't really be there and that affirmative action is the only reason? Give me a break… For a black man to get this far is truly remarkable.

KLM   March 11th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Maggie, Maggie, Maggie. I would so love to call you what I really think you are but I'm sure CNN wouldn't post it. That ancient mentality of yours is sooooo obvious. Both you and Hillary are terrible representations for women.

OBAMA08

Linlo   March 11th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

They disagree with her statements, yet Maggie Williams attacks Obama? Like what Ferraro says is his fault? These attacks are divisive, yes Maggie, and we should be focusing on the issues, yes Maggie, but the Clinton campaign and her surrogates are the ones who are throwing the attacks and doing the dividing. Clinton politics as usual – win at all costs. And if Senator Obama attempts to defend himself, then he's a whiner and he is the divisive one? DO YOU THINK WE ARE STUPID? I am a 49 year old white woman who finds Ferraro's comments unbelievably offensive. And since they have yet to shut her up, if anyone has seen Ms. Ferraro's equally offensive follow up comments, I guess they can let her help dig Senator Clinton's political grave. And good riddance. I used to have some respect for the Clintons and even Ferraro, but no more.

Virgil Warren   March 11th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

The Obama campaign worker was dead on Clinton is a "monster" putting
it lightly.

Deadly Buddha   March 11th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

For anyone to say that the reason that Obama is leading this election in popular votes because 90% of African Americans vote for him is absurd. That would have to mean that the United States was mostly made up of African Americans.

Jacque   March 11th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

I can't believe the media and the country is not jumping all over this. Obama consistently tries to bring the best out of Americans, while the Ciintons are covertly trying to stir up old divisive behaviors that have plagued this country. My thoughts… since they can no longer count on the Black vote and need the blue collar white vote, they're implementing the same tactics as the wealthy 1% Americans have historically used to distract Americans from asking the "right" questions regarding social inequality. For all we know, the Clintons are members of the elite 1%… we can't say for sure because they refuse to release their tax returns.

Ken   March 11th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

Why hasn't anyone gotten mad about Obama calling the Florida primaries a "BEAUTY CONTEST" or gotten mad when his people accuse an entire state of being "RACIST LIERS".

Perhaps she is correct about Obama getting special treatment just because he is black and if making the observation makes me a racist then I will not be alone

Ken

erin kelly   March 11th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

What has happened to accountability? This astounds me…

"Ferraro has refused to back down from her position. In a follow-up interview with the Daily Breeze, Ferraro stood by her previous statements and suggested that she is being attacked for this because she is white: "Any time anybody does anything that in any way pulls this campaign down and says let's address reality and the problems we're facing in this world, you're accused of being racist, so you have to shut up," Ferraro said. "Racism works in two different directions. I really think they're attacking me because I'm white. How's that?"[17]
Ferraro also stated on Fox News that Obama should not attack her comments about his race because he needs her to raise money for him if he wins the Democratic Party nomination.

She's such a well educated woman and the decent, responsible action would to have simply said "I spoke out of turn, and I apologize." These men and women in positions of leadership need to act with a modicum of decency. Race and gender (I am hoping) is not why any of us are backing our candidates.

MD in CT   March 11th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

Unless the cavemen in the Geico commercial feel slandered, Ms. Power's
comment about Clinton being a monster did not reawaken any of the bigotry that once dominated America. And yet she was immediately separated from the Obama campaign. If Ferraro in any way repesents Hillary, then maybe "the South will Rise again" but not in way that Ameica
can afford.

Rubennz Guzman   March 11th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Well, real issues need to be addressed .. Hilary is hiding tax returns and funs contribution and we know lot of lobbyists are investing lot of money ( Norman Hsu) contributes large donation to her campaign. we are sick and tired about politics as usual In washington. Lately and not the last Ferraro comments are disgraceful and unacceptable and need to be fully rejected and denouced, as Obama has done during his presentation.

Obama 08

LB   March 11th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Hillary should ask Ferraro to step aside… FLAT OUT!! How she handles this is a reflection of how she will handle anything like this in the future.

I have already lost all respect for Hillary and this just reflect badly on her.

Hillary is inviting negative energy by the way she has campaigned so don't try to tell me that this fighter 'that will do ANYTHING to win' is a victim here. I am not buying that.

Thank you Nancy Pelosi for denouncing the possibility of the team ticket because Hillary was using Senator Obama to get votes by telling people that if they voted for her they might get a chance to vote for both of them… BUSTED!!!

We need REAL change in this country.

Obama/Edwards '08

AK   March 11th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

huh? why is Hillary standing up for these racist comments?!

maya   March 11th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Obama was too busy campaigning to go the Tavis Smiley's STATE of the BLACK UNION. Literally that was the reason- too busy campaigning. Hillary went.

Front Page Sunday 3/9 NYT- Obama in Senate: Star Power, Minor Role. Seems the only thing BOLD and AUDACIOUS about him is being presumptuous enough to launch a presidential campaign the MINUTE he entered the US Senate 2005.

He gets 80-90% of the AA vote but he has no policies or programs created directly for them. I'm not the only one to think this. AA come out in force to support him- is he BOLD and STRONG enough to speak for them-NO he does not speak to any AA specific issues. Hillary has worked YEARS DEFENDING and SUPPORTING gender issues- for women and children. We in turn support her.

Tell me then- who is a more AUTHENTIC and BOLD leader?! HILLARY.

Darth Vadik, CA   March 11th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Meanwhile……

The lobbyist who represented Ahmet Chalabi, you know who this guy is, dont you, if you don't pleaase google him, is RUNNING John McCain's campaign.

Three Airbus lobbyists are a part of the McCain campaign, and one of them is his finance chair.

Oh yeah, an American company called Boing, we know this company don't we, just lost out a huge contract to Airbus, a European company, and John McCain is bragging about this.

…and John McInsane says he wouldn't be affected by lobbyists.

How many of you who will be laid off because of this injustice alone will be laid off, and how many of you are actually going to vote for McCain?

WHERE ARE YOU CNN, WHERE IS THIS STORY?
WHERE IS THE REAL JOURNALISM? WHERE IS THE JUSTICE?
GET TO WORK CNN?
EXPOSE THIS CREEP FOR WHAT HE IS.

Alice   March 11th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Yeah, Maggie, are you going to say the same thing about testimony that comes out of the Pellicano, or the upcoming Peter Paul fraud trial that implicates Hillary in wrongdoing?

CNN, shouldn't you being doing a public service to inform the voters on the Pellicano and Peter Paul trials? Why is the Press so mute on these trials when they involve a Presidential candidate?

MissyE   March 11th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

I am wondering how qualified the last president was… and the one before that? Hm… I guess times were just perfect with those last two. I think it was because they were black … Oh no, that's right they were white men, youngish, with a plan and a dream. I guess those options are just really not for ALL Americans huh?

Sometimes we can be too bitter and ignorant to be ashamed. I for one, am very happy this is all coming to light. It's funny how equality has a leash for some people.

john L Cerrato, Rockville Centre, NY   March 11th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

However you categorize Geraldine Ferraro's statement re: Obama, it happens to be true. Why is Obama ashamed of his blackness? Why are more than 8o% of blacks voting for him? They, {the pundits} say that their position on the issues are pretty much similar with differences on the margin.
The difference is He is a Black Man and she is a White Woman. I know the American people are not racial or gender biased. Sure, no one is biased in America.

Hey if you want to believe this , go right ahead. Ferraro was saying what she believes and it happens to be true at the same time. That's my humble opinion,

Jay   March 11th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

America will DENOUNCE and REJECT Obama and all his use of Race that is dividing the Democrats. His camp has done it over and over again!! Its getting old. It all started in South Carolina with him running with the spinning of the 'Fairy Tale" comment.

Obama – NO WAY!!

Michael O'Neal   March 11th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

Tell me, if Obama was white do you really think he would have gotten the percentage of black votes he has so far? Pointing out he is something of a novelty, is not racist.

You wanna know was is racist? A man who is mullato, refusing to call himself what he is, if he called himself white, wouldn't that be labeled by the press as shame and self hatred?

How far would he have gotten if he had done that, insead of labeling himself as black?

JD   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

There is a pattern here. A few days ago, he was Ken Starr. Now he is incompetent but a lucky black guy. Oh that's right, Jessie Jackson won South Carolina. You remember that Obama used drugs in his youth . He isn't Muslim, as far as I know.

Monster is too good of a word for her. I wish she would flame out . Hey I hear NY needs a governor .. Hillary they are calling you .

dj   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

hey hunter.. in bend, org. get over the tax issue. No one gives a crap about that. Move on.. More important issues out there.. About our Country.. !!!!
HILLARY ALL THE WAY!!!

Go Hillary!!!!!!!!

Rafi, NY NY   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

Many of you defending Ferraro's comments because you don't think they're racist are missing an obvious point: Not being racist doesn't automatically make them true!

There have been at least half a dozen African-American presidential candidates in the recent past (two of them ran just four years ago!). By Ferraro's logic, they would have made it much closer to the nomination, but not one of them came within an inch of that.

At the same time, do you honestly believe Hillary Clinton would be a senator right now if her husband hadn't been president? Or a candidate herself? Be honest now.

How anyone could miss such obvious counter-arguments is beyond me.

Virgil Warren   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

The Clinton Camp should close shop. How sad they are do anything and
say anything to win.

OBAMA !!!

lana   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

As a woman, I find it absurd that the racist comments – by a key campaign strategist in the Clinton camp – is allowed to be accepted by these same women apologist on this board who complain about sexism.

So it's okay to be blantantly racist as long as a white woman says it? This type of discourse should not be accepted by real progressives who believe that all of us are created equal. Unlike Senator Clinton, real progressives don't believe that a republican is better than a Democrat at governing America.

If the Clinton suporters believe and/or accept anything that Ferraro and Hillary clearly meant, you're not a real progressive…you're not a real Democrat.

I now know I voting for the best person for President next month – Senator Obama.

Mike   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

I believe that what Mrs. Ferraro stated was taken out of context, her point was accurate, based on how it was said.

Just as I believe that he has more of an advantage over Senator Clinton because she is a woman, and most men will not vote for a female.

When Obama goes head to head with McCain, the white male vote will go to McCain in volumes (in that voting booth, people vote the truth).

Go Hillary!

MGBYG   March 11th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

"This campaign should be about the leadership we need for a better future and these attacks serve only to divide the Democratic Party and the American people," Williams said in a statement sent to reporters.

How Clintonian. Do what you accuse them of and just scream indignation louder than your opponent.

If it's about leadership why is Ferraro commenting on skin colour?

Brian   March 11th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

It is a fact that Obama benefited in college and law school thanks to affirmative action admission policies. He was a junior professor in Univ of Chicago before running for senate 4 years ago.
His achievements are at best dismal if not pathetic. It is not wrong to claim or conclude that If he were a white male, his chances for presidential bid will be impossible.

Susan   March 11th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Obama is where he is because he is black. That is neither racist nor divisive. He has the coercise support of blacks who promote him simply because he is black, not because of his political message. If he was white, those same blacks who now support him wouldn't give him a minute of their time. It doesn't matter what he promises – we don't know what that really is. "Change" can be negative as well as positive – Obama would never be where he is if he was white, saying the same things he says today. He would be ignored and ridiculed as a light-weight with no substance.

Ferraro is right.

vtaylor   March 11th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Apparently, the only response the Clinton campaign is able to make to any situation is ATTACK, ATTACK, ATTACK. This says a lot about the campaign's leadership. Is this the kind of leadership that would be effective in a President?

roger   March 11th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Ferraro's remarks are undoubtably just another attempt by the clintons to inject race into the campaign! First it was bill in S.C., then it was hillary after Obama swept the southern states, dimissing it as just "the black vote", voting for one of thier own. Now it is a third and more obvious attempt by one of her senior staff! While one of her advisors says she doesn't agree with it, I notice hillary hasn't "renounced and rejected" it. Maybe the only part she disagrees with is that if he was a woman he wouldn't be there. She obviously disagrees with everything the dem. party has preached about racial equality for the last 50 years!

Charlotte   March 11th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Obama-bots are really stupid, Geraldine is merely a supporter. She is neither a consultant nor a paid staff member. You can't fire someone who doesn't even work for you..Obama is expected to carry Mississippi, DUH… He would not be where he is if he weren't black. Oprah would not have ever campagined for him if he were not black. He would not have won all those predominately black states if he were not black. MLK would never have been mentioned if he were not black. I have a dream, would never have been mentioned. Black delegates would not be strong armed into switching to Obama if he were not black. Sorry, just the facts

TheLeftNut   March 11th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Clinton is over because of the McCain-Obama-Commander-In-Chief Comment.

Let's move on.

Obama/??? is the next question.

Bipartisan   March 11th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

America will continue to decline in comparisson to the other industrialized nations. Obama is clearly the better candidate for soooo many reasons. Primative ideals plague our society. The time for change is now…………… Obama 08

kcw2288   March 11th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

It is true… He is leading because of his race, but mostly because he is a man…. The country has shown that they are not ready for a woman to lead, especially a white woman. If Hillary was a different race, but staying with her same personality and views, she would be much closer if not exceeding Obama…

Obama has great charisma, but no substance. Reminds me of Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums. Chanting "Change" means nothing if you dont really breakdown the "how". Anyone can point out problems, but it takes a leader to point out solutions.

John in FL   March 11th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Obama is leading because he's not a phony.

I also want to say that there's no "rock star status." People are excited about Obama because he's simply an inspiring guy.

Raymond   March 11th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Hi Maggie Williams –be fair, The Clinton's drew "first blood" on the race issue. Not because you are Black, speak to your own campaign with regard to stayine on the issue. It is so blatanly obvious: Bill Clintion's comment, the picture of Obama in a turban and now this with Ferraro! Maggie, I am also Aferican American, if you had any dignity you would resign from the Clinton campaign.

Nan   March 11th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Ms. Ferraro's comment is not a racist comment, it is true given the number of votes cast for Barach by African Americans. It's absurd to think we can totally ignore the fact of his race. There is no shame in African American's wanting to vote for an African American. There are many whites voting for him also, but the African American vote make his totals more impressive. We can't stop from acknowledging Barach's race any more than we can stop acknowledging Hillary's gender.

Bruce   March 11th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

Shame on you, Hillary, for not firing Ferraro immediately! This is putrid racist nonsense, and it serves no place in public discourse. My God, I can't believe people like this call themselves Americans

Kris   March 11th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

"A white male or any female with Sen. Obama's resume would have been laughed out of the race a year ago."

Not true…Bush? Bill Clinton? John KennedY? Abraham Lincoln? And I don't remember Ferraro herself having a wealth of experience either.

Bob   March 11th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

Let me get one thing straight, I will be holding my nose and voting for McCain in November for policy reasons. But what Ferraro said is patently racist, and wrong. Obama is simply the only natural leader running, and it shows the way he draws supporters from across all divides, even from among Republicans. He is where he is because he has the leadership and communication skills of a Kennedy, Roosevelt, and yes, Reagan. Hillary is where she is because she and her husband are ruthless political animals that will do and say anything for personal power.

Wayne, Greenville TX   March 11th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

It's time for Hillary to denounce and reject Geraldine Ferraro.

jimmy vekmen   March 11th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

NEW YORKER REPORTER ON THE TUCKER TALK SHOW CALLES HILLARY CLINTON " THE IRON LADY"
YES SHE IS AN IRON LADY. AFTER TAKING ALL THE NEGATIVE ATTACKS FROM NOT ONLY OBAMA'S CAMP AND REPUBLICANS AND STILL STAND UP AND FIGHT , SHE DESERVES THE TITLE.

SHE IS NOT THE FRAGILE , EASILY , DISTRACTED BY ATTACKS ON HER CANDIDACY. AFTER OBAMA'S STRING OF VICTORIES, HILLARY (;LIKE THE IRON LADY) FOUGHT BACK AND WON TEXAS, OHIO AND RHODE ISLAND EASILY ERASING OBAMA'S LEAD.
WYOMING IS REPUBLICAN AND WILL NOT HELP OBAMA IN THE GENERAL ELECTION. WHEREAS, TEXAS, OHIO AND PENNSYLVANIA, FLORIDA AND MICHIGAN WILL HELP HILLARY CLINTON.

Tom, Cville, VA   March 11th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

Clinton's campaign just sinks lower and lower. If she wins, I doubt I will vote for her, and that is hard for me to say. I think she has better positions than McCain, who strikes me as a well-meaning man who unfortunately is Bush Lite, but I have pretty much lost all trust and respect for Clinton. I hope Obama goes on to win, but if he doesn't, it looks like the Green Party for me. Futile, I know, but I just don't think I can pull the lever for such a slimer as Clinton. And by the way, does anyone think Clinton would still be in the race if she weren't a Clinton? She would have been laughed off the scene. Offering the frontrunner the vp slot in her campaign? Laughable, and despicable.

Bill   March 11th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

We are living in the real word watching the self destruction of the Clinton influence on American Politics.

Tarelton   March 11th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

And why did Ms Ferraro's and her presidential candidate not win in 1984?

Additionally, as much as I am repulsed by her insipid statement, I must commend the south for not agreeing. Take a look at the primary results. South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Washington, D.C., Virginia and Louisiana (Jim Crow's founding State). The southern whites – many of whom left the Democratic Party largely after President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (of which Hillary Clinton worked against with Barry Goldwater) – have embraced Senator (future president) Obama.

AJ   March 11th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Honestly, who cares!

Ardnuas   March 11th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Voters….Who represents AMERICA best ?
Who would our FRIENDS around the world like to UNITE with?
Obama/Edwards08 Si Se Puede

Susan   March 11th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

I am amazed at the response to Ferraro's remarks. She is completely – and I mean completely – correct. I have been saying this for many many weeks – Obama would NEVER be experiencing his current position as a mouthy, non-substantive candidate, spouting his empty verbiage if he were a white man, or if he were Asian or Hispanic, for that matter. He is black – and blacks are his rallying promoters, twisting arms of super delegates to change their votes to support him because he is black. I will not vote for Obama for many reasons, not the least of which is because he says nothing of substance, and is full of only rhetoric – but he is riding this ride on his race – and currying the support of others simply because he is their black candidate. Color him white keeping the same speech contents and demeanor, and he would not garner the attention of anyone interested in listening to what he is saying, not just being dazzled by his "style". Mr. Obama should preach from a church pulpit and stay out of serious politics until he has established a record of serious accomplishments. The New York Times got it right with their front page article this Sunday.

d   March 11th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Oh my gosh; she spoke the truth. Obama is raking in 85% A-A votes. Shame !

James   March 11th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

She should also REJECT her DENOUNCE her and FIRE her.

rob   March 11th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

Wow I thought only the evil Carl Rove and Repulicans were "divisive".

The Dems are finally seeing these people for what they are. Everybody looked the other way with the Clintons but now I hope they are done and we can move forward and have real dbates about the real issues that face us.

Jay   March 11th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

She is not paid by Hillary to be Fired. Do your homework before you post things you nothing about.

chris   March 11th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

Clinton wouldn't be where she is either…

1. If she wasn't married to Bill
2. If she was Male

Still amazed at the double standard the Clinton camp has

Clinton is old school – back stabbing polytics… we need change. (also… experience doesn't mean you're good at something… I'm still looking for something significant that she's done – not taken credit for someone elses actions)

Tanya   March 11th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

There is no place for this kind of talk in this race, and the fact that it is coming from Clinton's campaign does not surprise me in the least. I am increasingly disgusted by pretty much everything that comes out of the Clinton campaign – and I used to support her in the beginning of this campaign process. Now, if she wins the nomination there is no way she will get my vote. Her tactics are disgusting and it's obvious she will do anything to win.

Cedric, Memphis   March 11th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

This is starting to get disgusting. Hillary is starting to act more like the "Monster" she was referred to. Obama should hire back the Foreign policy advisor who resigned, because she was right! Hillary is now cashing in favors with old friend, who are acting ugly on her behalf. These are old politics and letting go is getting hard. The superdelegates should start casting after tonight's primary in Mississippi. This will stop her from acting any more uglier and save the Clintons reputation. A Democrat turned Republican in the middle of the race. WOW!!!!! Someone (Dean) make the Super Delegates cast now and force her to "Go down with some dignity left".

John   March 11th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Well …I guess that Hilary's not going to "rebuke and renounce" Ferraro and her comments. Does that mean Hilary doesn't have to stand up to the same standards that she sets for others or is it just one of those sexist things where everything they do is OK because they're women?

Phil   March 11th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

This is Bush / Rove campaigning at it's finest. Hillary's campaign is following in Bush's footsteps. Her integrity diminishes every day. Just more proof that we need to abolish politics as usual.

David S Houston,TX   March 11th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

I am 99% Democrat. I make $11.50 an hour and have tighened my belt to send Obama's campaign over $250 so far becuase he has refused to take any Lobbyist or PAC money. I decided to volunteer for his campaign when I kept feeling inspired about the change he wants to bring about in Washington. By the way Obama is doing so well becuase of his message not race or gender. We are feed up with the way things have been going in Washington and he is the most agressive person to take the steps to create change. I will not donate money to any campaign that takes Lobbyist or PAC money and this negative campaigning by the Clinton's is making me consider voting for McCain if Clinton is the nominee. If McCain, and I think he will, runs a respectful campaign I would be more inclided to vote for him. I want someone that is respectful to other people to respresent us here and abroad.

kay kay   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Geez Maggi, are you trying to get rid of the last of Hillary's support? We reject any comment that Obama is where he is as a black man, as we would reject any comment that Hillary is where she is because she was the wife of a former president. Oh, wait, that second part is true.

MIkeo   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

This Maggie Williams lady is now defending her boss to a point of irrationality. So Obama is to blame for a patently racist statement by a Clinton's campaign insider? when was the last time that Hillary or the campaign spoke about policies or what really matters to voters. All we hear from her and her campaign are negative attacks or if you dont vote for me all your children will die!

Whats Next   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

The only person lucky in this race is Hillary for being the wife of an Ex- President, for having a silver spoon priviledged life, and lots of old haggard politicians in her pocket. She wouldn't have gotten this far if she was just a senator with less than 2 terms. Also, Ferraro was in the House for 6 years before she was asked to be VP. Double Speak at its best.

Angela   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

The Obama camp needs to grow up.

Her comments weren't racisit – they were factual. She didn't say he is lucky to be 'where' he is'. She said he is lucky to be 'who' he is. Isn't he?

Obama made some pretty racial comments after the Texas primary.
His father was lucky enough to come to America, get and education and marry a white girl. Racist????

Are not HUGE numbers of African Americans voting for him? Racist??

Why is Obama the only one who can bring up race?

Geoff   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Interesting, Hillary affirms she is "ready on day one", yet she is not able to hold people in her campaign accountable for these type of actions, she has not been able to manage her campaign effectively, running out of money, discounting caucus states and smaller states to the point she is behind in total delegates (but those states don't really count), doesn't seem as if she is demonstrating the characteristics of a "Chief Executive" and certainly not someone ready on day one.

Susie   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

That's it, Hillary. I thought you were different. Turns out you are just like Bush. You just lost my vote forever.

Schwarz   March 11th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Remember when Obama was invited to attend a black meeting or conference and couldn't go??? He said he would send his wife but they told him to forget it… Could you see if Hillary Clinton had said she couldn't go but would send Bill??? The media would have been all over that……………………………….. She is constantly picked on no matter what she or anyone else says…. Again, no one ever will dare speak of Obama… AFRAID………………… So one sided

Bonnie   March 11th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

Ferraro=Italian-American with smarts and depth, only woman to serve on Democratic ticket, states SD are to vote in party's best interest
Pelosi=Italian-American with rich husband, Senate sinks to all-time lowest rating under her lead, states SD must vote with state delegates
Answer to equation? Smart & Depth wins over Dense & Shallow

Mike, Toronto   March 11th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

So, racism is OK if it helps the Clinton campaign; somebody should tell them that we're in the 21st century! Normally, Ferraro's remarks and Maggie Williams' clarifications should bring this race to an end…

Arkansas Undertaker   March 11th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

I think the Obama Campaign should rehire the lady the called Hillary Clinton a "Monster". She was just telling the truth.

Hillary Clinton's true colors are really showing. She jumped all over Obama for the Monster staement. SHe also said her campaign wouldnt stand for this type of behavior, but she is NOT "REJECTING" or "DENOUNCING" Ferrarro's statements. HYPOCRIT!!!!!!

Sharon of Illinois   March 11th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

In addition to my comment above, is there every any time whites think blacks actually earn what they get? You know there are plenty of blacks more educated than whites without affirmative action. I know its difficult to accept but it is true.

jer   March 11th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

This is more strategy to win Pennsylvania. They are shameless and they keep going to the bad in all of us.

How can Hillary be good for our Country?

Angelus   March 11th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

It's unfortunate when someone you admired like Geraldine Ferraro, and hillary clinton for that matter, turns out to be as low as any right wing republican. I guess the vast right wing conspiracy was right after all. Barack Obama not only needs to win, America NEEDS him to win.

Joe   March 11th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Both sides should stop the bickering. Why? They are just giving the Republicans ammunition for the general election. Everything and every word is being carefully recorded and analyzed by the Republicans. I wish all of these supporters of both sides would just keep their mouths shut.

Sharon   March 11th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

***"This campaign should be about the leadership we need for a better future and these attacks serve only to divide the Democratic Party and the American people," Williams said.****

Well said, Mag. You prove yet again that your campaign is totally divorsed from reality. Clinton is running a campaign of attack politics instead of one focusing on "leadership" and dividing the Democratic Party by endorsing McCain.

This does prove one thing, though. The Clintons can't admit when they are wrong. Do we really want that in the White House again?

Glenn   March 11th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

The Hillary campaign is built on nothing more than lies, racism, dirty tricks and the lust for power Hillary and Bill.

Phil   March 11th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

More Clinton hypocrisy.

lee   March 11th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Thank You Geraldine Ferraro……………..
Its about time someone told the truth about Obama…………………

Darth Vadik, CA   March 11th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Hillary is tearing this party into two. She is acting like Obama is taking her rightfully bestowed presidency. Except she is the only one that feels this way.

I myself started out as a Hillary supporter, Obama won me over with his poise, tact, and his NO vote on the Iran resolution. Fair and square.

Today I cant even see myself holding my nose and voting for Hillary in the national election, and her style of campaigning has done this, not anything that Obama has done.

The only way she can win is that if she has way more super delegates vote for her instead of Obama, at which point there will be a riot in the Democratic party. How do I know this, Governor Randell has said that super delegates are to make sure the Democrats elect a "stronger" candidate, and to hech with people (I added this last part).

You Hillary supporters are dillusional, and I'm noticing less and less of you every day, thank God.

Howard Dean, Nancy Pelosi, Harry Reid, Steny Hoyer and Al Gore need to pull the Clintons aside and let them know that it is over. Hillary's saviour will not be the super delegates.

Nancy Pelosi is right, there will be no dream ticket, and after what Hillary's shinannigans, I don't want her anywhere near the whithouse.

Chris in Va.   March 11th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Is there any depth to which the Clinton campaign and her cronies would not stoop? Concerning a joint ticket, I would not vote for any ticket on which Hillary Clinton's name appears.

Sharon of Illinois   March 11th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Hillary benefitted from affirmative action as a woman as well. But as an attorney, please know that if he did not have the skills, affirmative action or not, he would not have been editor of the Harvard Law Review. Its amazing how blinded people are by their beliefs, blacks can vote for who they want, for whatever reason. If you have a problem with that, you should also think its sexist for women to vote for Hillary because she is a woman. Think an argument through before you make it because a lot of you seem like idiots.

Fredd   March 11th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Yeah, just like 88% of the African American population voted for Obama and no one else. So you call this a non racist & non biased election? I don't think so.

Ben   March 11th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Unbelieveable spin! Firstly, has anyone really questioned whether Ferrero made these comments without getting the OK from someone in the Clinton campaign first? Secondly defending yourself AGAINST an attack is NOT an attack. It is defense. This is the South Carolina strategy all over again – painting Obama as the exclusively 'Black' candidate who can't appeal to the wider electorate. Toxic, inaccurate and offensive. Welcome to Hillaryland.

Pat M Canada   March 11th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

The only thing I have witnessed as being patently absurd is Obama's Campaign.

Let me briefly explain. A man who is running for the President of the United States of America on mere Orator's sub-standard talents, quotes from past statesmen and a mantra of Change and Yes We Can is in my mind patenly absurd!

When you consider in addition to the above that he has yet to after months of campaigning, lay out any plans as to how he would bring about this Change he speaks about incessantly. He has yet to explain how he will implement his Health Care Program which leaves out a good chunk of the population. He has yet to explain how he will implement the deployment of troops and end the Iraq War. He has yet to explain how he will improve the present rock bottom economy. A Candidate who feels he can win the nomination on mere unsubstanitated words and phrases is indeed patently absurd.

This man in my view is getting a free ride to the White House at the expense of the American citizens and their tax dollars. It is way past time he was asked to explain point blank as the two other Candidates have, to verbally back up his statements of plans by laying them out for the American citizens. I don't feel this is too much to ask given the other Candidates have already done so.

Miles   March 11th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Good grief. Attacks? He hasn't attacked, and he hasn't been personal. He simply called you out on exactly what you're trying to do, just like he always does. You're seriously trying to say HE's the one who's out of line after YOUR advisor says racist comments? How about you just fire Ferraro as an advisor. Barack fired Samantha Power for far less. You should take some notes on how to run a campaign.

Well, well, well........   March 11th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

These remarks that everyone seems to be having a problem with are stating fact folks…………and so what about it? What is there to apologize for when all the polls – admit it – show Senator Obama taking the black voters 80%…………..that clearly shows what else but that the black voters are voting for Obama?

What would there be to fire anyone about? Senator Obama uses his race at every turn that he has available to him! Even Oprah when she was out getting the vote told the black voters to vote for him because he was 'one of them'………..what else is one to think? Senator Obama has someone say their piece (Oprah) and that is ok? Can't have it both ways!

Nonna   March 11th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

when is enough for Hillary Clinton?
what Ms Ferraro said is just horrible, so much worst that anything is being sad about her.
She is more than a monster, she is a devil that DEMAND to be president!!!!
Give up Hillary. You will never get my vote, I will vote for McCain before I vote for you!!!!

susan   March 11th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

I suppose Ms. Williams believes that calling Obama Kenn Starr is not personal or calculated. She should be ashamed of her above comment. This is a new low for the Clinton campaign.

Teresa in Kansas   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

So, Clinton neither rejects nor denounces Ferraro's remarks. I guess that means that Clinton accepts and proclaimes Ferraro's remarks.

The Clinton campaign seems to have a real problem with accountability…they ALWAYS blame the other guy.

Schwarz   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

We constantly put the Clinton family under the microscope. Bill Clinton was a good president. How come the news doesn't put any of the other candidates under the microscope and criticize them constantly like they do Hillary Clinton.. This is so obvious. Are we afraid of Obama and his following?? Never NOTHING said about him. Quite obvious who the media supports.

Jay   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Gerladine was a novelty in 1984, because she was awoman.

I suspect she wouldn't have wanted that pointed out back then.

rediva71   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Is Ms. Ferraro stupid, or just plain ignorant. Either way it's no exuse! Obama is "in this position" because he deserves to be. He has 2 less yeard experience than Hillary. Maybe Ms. Ferraro should change her party to "Republican".

EDW   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Hillary wouldn't have a snowball's chance in hell in running for President if her husband wasn't Bill Clinton. i don't think Ferraro's comment is accurate, because Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton's race didn't make them presidential frontrunners. Obama is succeeding because of his individual appeal and a very well oiled campaign.

Donna F   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Well, from a lot of reading….no just news stories, but interviews with those who have worked with Obama, he is lucky to be where he is…..put on committees by Kennedy, but not showing up for committee meetings, not really having any need to fight for anything so far as a Senator. He has scary ideas about Iraq and dealing with foreign leaders. He is too young, too inexperienced and too naive…that has all been said…..and now it is starting to show…..anybody listening, watching him really…..?

stephanie   March 11th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Ms. Clinton also stated that the focus of the campaign should be on the issues of universal healthcare, the economy, and national security. All of which Ms. Clinton has given a detailed plan to navigate this country, and which Mr. Obama has not. Look up her plans, listen to what she says in debates and speeches. He has not delivered a detailed plan. Why do the media not focus on this?

Clinton/Obama 2008/2012

David   March 11th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

As usual the clinton campagne tries to go negative to gain.
What they are hoping is that President Obama mentions something about gender as they are mentioning race,so that they can counter and grab some of his female base.
Don't fall for that snare Obama!!!!

I look forward to the day you take your oath of office!!!

OBAMA is PRESIDENT!!!!!

applecrispbetty   March 11th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

How many black people, 12%?
How many women, 50%?
If Ferraro were right, HRC would be 38% ahead of Mr. Obama in the elections.

Sharon   March 11th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

What would be the politically correct way to say what the polls are saying?

Obasanjou   March 11th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

I'm an Obama supporter, but I'm sick and tired of us trying to fight the good fight here with this ridiculous Clinton campaign. We've got to take the gloves off and hit back when HRC uses her stooges to make vicious attacks against Barack. She will stop at nothing to get the nomination.

jer   March 11th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

When Hillary said she was honored to be on the stage with Obama it was really another false statement as they and their supporters continue to tell him to get in his place.

SHAMEFULL

Carrie Pa   March 11th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Does Maggie Williams think that the voters are stupid? Geraldine Ferraro's remarks were wrong. BS spin!

David   March 11th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

As usual the clinton campagne tries to go negative to gain.
What they are hoping is that President Obama mentions something about gender as they are mentioning race,so that they can counter and grab some of his female base.
Don't fall for that snare Obama!!!!

I look forward to the day you take your oath of office!!!

OBAMA is PRESIDENT!!!!!

Patrick   March 11th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

I can't believe how OFFENSIVE her comments were. And how PATHETIC that the Clinton campaign doesn't FIRE her. Obama fired an advisor for calling Hillary a Monster. OMG!!! Double standards? I can't stand that woman Clinton.

Robert Bauer   March 11th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Geraldine Ferraro was the co-architect of one of the most disastrous Democratic campaigns in American presidential history. Not only did she and Mondale lose, but they lost in an overwhelming landslide to a man who offered nothing more than "happy times." Given her history of catastrophic performances in campaigns, I don't think her opinion about Obama means much at all. She should return to the political garbage heap of history, from whence she came.

Betty Hoffman   March 11th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

It seems that there is too much apologizing during the campaign.
These people are needing to get some thicker skins. When one of these characters get to be president of the United States, they may be taking more slams than what is going on right now. Lets get some strength.

Harvey   March 11th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

no one can say anything about Obama being black without idiot saying they are a racist…If people want to be racist they will just get all their friends and say we will not vote for a black man..then u can be a racist…this Obama and his stafff just love playin the race card it gives them more BLACK votes

Bobby   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Obama's making personal attacks????

What do you call claiming one opponents race is the reason for their success? That's seems pretty personal to me.

LadyVoter   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I am so sick of Obama I can't wait to vote for McCain. The fact is if everyone was allowed to vote in those caucus states and they were primaries instead he would not be in the lead. If people were allowed easy access to vote by not being precluded from voting because it ain't easy at a caucus for the old, blind and disabled, caretakers etc then Clinton would be in the lead. We do not have a democratic system.

Will   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Does this action, or rather lack of action, on the part of Hillary's campaign speak volumes? Hillary, either is an outright racist for not denouncing or rejecting Fearrar racist remarks, or is totally unable to handle her campaign managers and advisors or maybe both. That is a truly bad sign of the tough and ready image is trying to portray to be able to step in and lead on day one claim of Hillary's.

Is this the way all women who fight sexism view racism?

Rick   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I'll say it if everyone else is scared to say it, I think Hillary provokes the racist remarks that come out of her campaign and then she sheds a tear and says not me, oh not me. I think that is garbage, look at Bill and his comments, look at the things Hillary has said, look at what others in her campaign have said. It is a continuos flow of racist remarks. I am outraged by Hillary's campaign and her lack of respect and not accepting the responsibility of the remarks that come out of her campaign.

dave in calgary   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Question for Maggie Williams… Are you 12 years old? I mean, sorry, but the comments from you and the way you present them…

Brenda   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

I don't make my judgments based on color of the skin but isn't it rather obvious why Sen Obama has 88% of African Americans voting for him???? If he was a white man could he have managed to get 88% of African American votes? Edwards could not !!!!! Because as far as real issues are concerned there is nothing much Sen Obama has to offer – all he has is "we need a change" and " I agree with Sen Clinton" . Like it or not, Obama camp is very strategically playing the race card to their benefit and making it Clinton's fault (Just like they did in South Carolina).

Hope American people are smart enough to understand and make educated decisions rather than superficial ones. There is no doubt that African Americans are no less that every other American and that they are more than capable of taking up any challange ,but not Sen Obama. He is behaving like a kid waiting for a reason to blame someone else and tattle inorder to take attention away from his doings .

I. Harris   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Is every one asleep? Come on People. People are focused on Gov. Eliot Spitzer and his sex scandal. Why didn't you impeach Pred. Clinton when he had the woman down on her knees. Leave the Governor alone because Hillare is now trying to let her husband back in to run muck in the white house again.
Iri
California.

Darren P   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Wow, just when you think it can't get any lower, they dig a pit and jump down.

thepeonview   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Jack you are an idiot for the coment that you made about Geraldine Ferraro. The insinuations behind the comments is true but eveyone is so sensitive about not offending the black candidate that no one is anymore allowed to say anything about Obama's blackness. I am a black woman, who inherently believe that Obama is unqualified and got where he got basically on concept. He hems and haws on the questions if they are posed to him as a direct question and not a rebuttal to Hillary's response. Cnn you make it so obvious that you are caught up in the Obamamania hype. You probably won't post this for this comment but it is time you report the news fairly and equally than reporting only in favor of the 'Rock Star'

Time after time   March 11th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

If the same were said of Maggie Williams, that the only reason she has a leadership role is because of her race, one suppose that would be reasonable as well? In fact, there are whispers that the reason she is there is exactly for the purpose of refuting claims of Clintonian bigotry, and she is apparently playing her role very well. It's unfortunate that for every Karl Rove, there is a Mark Penn, for every Clarence Thomas a Maggie Williams and for every George Bush, a Hillary Clinton. Let's break from this and move on to something new.

Andy   March 11th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Geraldine nailed it.

The media has created this phenom but Obama has no substance. Quite frankly a woman or white man would not have reached first base with the same Obama resume

WAKE UP!!!!   March 11th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

WHAT THE HECK IS MAGGIE TALKING ABOUT? HOW IN THE WORLD IS THIS OBAMA CAMP'S FAULT! SHE SOUNDS STUPID!!!!!!!!! WHEN OBAMA'S ADVISER CALLED HILLARY A MONSTER, THEY WERE UP IN ARMS!!!! NOW WHEN SOMEONE AT HILLARY CAMP SAYS THAT OBAMA ONLY IS IN HIS POSITION BECAUSE HE IS BLACK, THEN IT IS OBAMA'S CAMP AT FAULT. IF MAGGIE KNEW ANYTHING, SHE WOULD KNOW THAT FERRARO'S COMMENT WOULD DIVIDE THE PARTY NOT THE OBAMA CAMP!!!!!

LETS GET REAL!!!!!!

Louis   March 11th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

"This campaign should be about the leadership we need for a better future and these attacks serve only to divide the Democratic Party and the American people," Williams said in a statement sent to reporters.

where was this statement last week when the Clinton campaign was asking for a denunciation and resignation in regard to the Monster comment?

By standing by and up for this position Hillary Clinton has made it clear where she stands on issues of race; black people are very nice for the most part, as long as they know their place.

Such comments spit in the face of measuring people by the content of their character.

But Hillary isn't a racist, lying, cheating, bigoted, closet Republican…As far as I know.

Karen S. Carpenter   March 11th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

The Obama campaign is correct. The remark by Ferraro is probably intended to pander to not only overt racists, but closet racists as well.

Having lived in Alabama and Georgia myself. I am very familiar with that overt racism, as well as the undercurrent of insidious racism that pervades all areas of society.

Furthermore, I cannot believe that Clinton is not also purposely pandering to those with a racist culture and history. Her so-called experience is in "politics" ie, getting elected and making sure someone else doesn't get elected. She seems to run a "monster" campaign. Maybe the Obama campaign worker who resigned was correct.

When I learned of Ferraro's remarked, I imagined heads nodding in agreement all through the white deep south.

Mary   March 11th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

People are always making comments. How can this be Stopped? Only Gods knows. The candidates and campaign leaders need to relax, chill and focus on their strategies, and not each other in a negative manner, unless, its revelant to the campaign. We do need strong leaders, but not at the expense of dividing the party.

david Hunter, bend,or   March 11th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

WHAT TO DO WITH FLORIDA & MICHIGAN.

1. Since both states violated the party rules there should be some consequence or we will conform what a lot of people
think about the party– that we’re permissive and indulgent. That said, why not have a new primary but cut the delegates in half.
Thats what the other party did and we didn’t hear any complaints about that. It seems they at least got that right.

2. Since Hillary would probably win Florida 55/45 and Obama would probably win Michigan 55/45 (remember over 40% of the voters in Michigan went out
in freezing temps to vote uncommitted, and with Obama’s name not even on the ballot). Why not divide the votes evenly and give each candidate
half the delegates. This would save the party 20-30 million dollars that could be used against McCain. Lets not waste money because Florida and Michigan broke the rules.

Finally, many of us have donated to the candidate of our choice to advance their programs, not to make good on Florida and Michigans bad decisions.
It would make some of us think twice about giving again. Any primaries should be paid for by the DNC or soft money.

Go Hillary!   March 11th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Good!

Hilllary should fight back! Do not be too mercy to Obama. He is just liar who will be exposed one day!

Go hillary

Long-term Memory   March 11th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Ferraro's comments were wrong and unfortunate, and Hillary Clinton did say she did not agree with them. Having said that, Ferraro is a fundraiser, not a paid member of the Clinton campaign, which means that this is not analogous to the Samantha Power flap. The Obama campaign did not call for repudiation of Gloria Steinem's (a Clinton supporter) comments about John McCain, although McCain's campaign did. And nobody has yet expressed sufficient outrage over Orlando Patterson's irresponsible and inexcusable op-ed piece in the New York Times in which he compares Clinton's 3AM ad to the white supremacist propaganda of "Birth of a Nation."

Unless we plan on voting for a candidate for president based on who had the fewer or most (which would be more favorable?) denunciations of his or her supporters, we should probably declare a moratorium on denunciations, unless the person is directly employed by one of the campaigns. Otherwise we risk undermining the first amendment and spending too much time focusing on off-the-cuff or off-the-record remarks made by surrogates rather than the plans proposed by the candidates that affect millions of lives.

Terry   March 11th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Sorry, Maggie Willams. There is no way to spin this one. Hillary needs to "reject", "denounce" and "FIRE", Geraldine Ferraro. There is no need for these type of comments during the campaign.

Andrew Kenneth   March 11th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

In South Carolina they said he wouldn't succeed and would have a similar fate to Jessie Jackson,
Then they are now saying that he is successful because he is black,
They practically endorsed Mcain , a republican saying he was more qualifed to be commander in chief, then floated the idea that Obama would be a good VP.
What is it with Clintons these days they don't even have a unified position, I think this is as a result of all the infighting and disorganization they have,

john   March 11th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

The Clinton campaign sinks lower and lower, desparation is setting in, you only had to look at her facial expression today when asked about those racial remarks from Ferraro and her failure to distance herself. Coming on top of the Commander in Chief remarks she made expressing her position that McCain would be better than Obama, her campaign seems to be losing direction and coherence again, that look said it all; she knows she has screwed up again; made a rookie mistake and will pay big style.Simply put her expression said she knows she is staring defeat in the face and is losing all credibilty with the voters and superdelegates. Her message is now being trumped on a daily basis.

Schwarz   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I don't care if you post this or not. I just wanted to get a point across. We listen everyday and hear nothing but NEGATIVE about Hillary Clinton. Her husband cannot say anything because there is always a negative. Yet Obama's wife, Oprah, Kennedy's, Shriver can say anything they wish and nothing is said. Hillary is constantly being talked about and ridiculed. You never hear anything about Obama. Now we talk about McCain and his cancer. Who cares.. The man has been in remission. Anyone of these people could have cancer next year. People should focus on what is important. We constantly talk about these candidates and the war. This is IMPORTANT. But what about moving on to other things like the ECONOMY, loss of JOBS, HEALTHCARE…Always the negative on Clinton…. This is so obvious on CNN…

david Hunter, bend,or   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

The Clinton’s have not released a scheduled tax return since 2002. There is no reason they couldn’t release,03,04,05,06 tomorrow and show where their millions are coming from. They have said that around April 15 they will release their returns. Come the 15th, they will have some excuse to postpone it past the 24th Penn. primary. Yes thats right, after millions of people have cast their ballots without this information.

All of the other Democratic candidates have made public their returns long ago. What’s the story Hillary?

Do we need a President that at 3am gets a call about a major problem in the middle east, and derives millions of dollars of her income from that area?
Sounds like a conflict of interest to me. Not only that its a major security problem. Will she be bought?

Hillary needs to come clean with the American people.

Tax Returns– White House Records– Clinton Library Archives

WHAT IS SHE HIDING?
WHAT IS SHE HIDING?
WHAT IS SHE HIDING?
WHAT IS SHE HIDING?
WHAT IS SHE HIDING?
WHAT IS SHE HIDING?

Don’t let her hide!!!!!

Boomer   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Obama's advisor resigned last week after making a much LESS serious statement. I guess she was right after all and Hillary IS a monster! How dare Ferraro make such a totally biased remark. It sounded like something the KKK would say. Hillary should fire her immediately!! I used to be for Hillary but she is trying every old style political trick in the book. A lot of her supporters appear to be poorly educated white people who are obviously bigoted. I'm switching to Obama. I think Hillary is more right wing than McCain!

lindy   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I think Hillary should both DENOUNCE and REJECT Ferraro's comments!!!!!

Richard, FL   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Maggie Williams said "This campaign should be about the leadership we need for a better future and these attacks serve only to divide the Democratic Party and the American people". Obviously she didn't say that while looking into a mirror. The Clinton campaign takes a hit from Ferraro and another hit from its own stupidity.

mike   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

CNN won't like this, but the only thing that is absurd:

Is Barack Obama not coming to terms with the fact that he is black. I am an American. I will not have my hands tied about saying the truth. Let's be very frank. I like Barack Obama. I also like Hillary Clinton – in fact, I like Hillary Clinton more. Barack, part of the excitement behind your campaign is the fact you are black and you make good speeches. Get over it. Because, it's going to take a lot more to win in the General Election than those 2 qualities. And no, just because I do not vote for Barack Obama does not make me a racist. For example, I'd gladly vote for Colin Powell, a true American Patriot, Barack Obama not so much. Hillary or McCain. Thanks for your time, despite the fact this is not a pro-Obama comment and CNN is likely not to post it.

sonya   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

what a joke…it is obvious that obamas campaign is race driven. ferraro is not controversial, she is telling the truth. cnn…you are just as ridiculous. you condemn ferraro, yet while reporting the exit polls for miss. you reported that it is coming down to race and obama's huge african american vote. so…it's ok to report the facts, but not ok to state the obvious. ridiculous. obama is the biggest divider in the campaign.

teri larney   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Since when it is 'offensive' to call a presidential candidate "lucky"? What Ms. Ferraro said is very true. Both Obama and Clinton are good candidates – however, I just wonder what the newscasters would be saying if Mrs. Clinton received 90% of the white vote? Mr. Obama's vote getting among black voters is extremely racist. No one on the air waves seems to be thinking that. As for myself, ordinarily I would vote for the more experienced candidate. But right now, I may just waste the vote and give it to Ralph Nader just to show my indignation at the way the media is covering this race. It is simply not right to constantly show one candidate as the great hope and the other as a lackey.

Todd   March 11th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

As an African American I have lived my whole life thinking that the Democrats where the good guys. How wrong I was to think that anyone who proclaimed they were a Democrat was blind to the evils of racism how wrong I was. Thanks Hillary for changing this country for the WORST.I hope it was worth it.

Frannie   March 11th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Ferraro's comment was just plain ugly.

I am very disappointed in her.

CHICANO ART, ARIZONA   March 11th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

I believe that it is true that Obama has reached this point in his career because he is an African-American. The media was very hesitant to criticize him during Black History Month. This lack of investigation did play a part in some of Barrack's success because many citizens trust the media to report the news. This is a unique time in history where Americans are willing to put racism behind us, but we must not let a sense of shame force us to choose an inferior candidate. Look, Aberto Gonzalez was accused of reaching the Attorney General because he was Mexican-American. His critics said everything from his acceptance to the Air Force Academy, Rice, Harvard Law, ect. was because he beneficiary of Affirmative Action. He did enrage conservatives when he did not allow the administration to come down to hard in Michigan. My point is the Obama camp is living in a dream world if they think that race does not matter.

PEACE, PROSPERITY
TRUSTED, PROVEN,
HILLARY CLINTON

Grif   March 11th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

What have you done Hillary? Mr Cafferty don't like you!!

He says he's older than you. Still you must resemble some Female in his past life!

Maybe some look-a-like turned hjim down for the School Prom!

Way back then……………..

Tom Wittmann   March 11th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

How long we must continue to hear these insolent statements by the
Clinton campaign ?? Obama, when an adviser insulted Hillary,
booted ("resigned") her, the Hillary campaign, when Ferrero makes
racist comments, attacks the Obama campaign because they objected to it !!

TOM

Michael   March 11th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

When I first saw this headline, I first thought: oh good, the Clinton Campaign is taking some action. I should have known when I saw the name Maggies Wiiliams that it's the usual Clinton rhetoric of divisive and nasty campaining. Now they are whining that they are the victims of what Ferrarro said. If Clinton is elected, I will leave America!

Wallace, Sacramento   March 11th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

What?

"false, personal and politically calculated attacks"? You have to be kidding. That's exactly what Clinton continues to do!!!! Geraldine Ferraro made the comments, NOT Obama.

Seriously HRC supporters, you really can't see through this comment by Maggie Williams? You and I both know that Obama won't stoop down to her level. Seriously.

Maybe you can see through HRC, but you don't care. I just ask that If you're going to fight, fight for what's right, not just for the sake of fighting.

Obama '08

Alex from IL   March 11th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Wait, the Clinton campaign is defending the patently racist comments? Wow. Hillary should just quit the race now to save face.

Ron, TX   March 11th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

The Clinton campaign is ACTUALLY standing by Ferraro's statements?!

Oh. My. God.

Ron   March 11th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

We love you Geraldine and we want you to be VICE PRESIDENT GO HILLARY AND FERRARO 08 FIGHTERS FOR AMERICA

OBAMA YES CLINTON NO   March 11th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THAT A HIGH PROFILE PERSON WHO SUPPORTS CLINTON, HAS INDICATED THAT OBAMAS PROBLEM IS THAT HE IS BLACK. THE FIRST WAS IN TEXAS BY A HIGH PROFILE LATINO LEADER AND NOW FERRARO. SENATOR CLINTON POLITELY SAYS SHE DOES NOT AGREE BUT CONTINUES TO SMILE BEHIND THE SCENES AND ACCEPT SUPPORT FROM THESE PEOPLE AND THE VOTES THEY BRING IN. SHE HAS NOT GONE FAR ENOUGH TO RENOUNCE THESE COMMENTS. THIS IS SO CLINTON.

John   March 11th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Obama is no better than any of the current Washington politian. He plays political game as much as he could. He told vote he against NAFT, but told Canadian government that that is only for election. He played racialism again and again before any voting state that has large black population. I don't care what color he is, but I am tied of his political games.

JC   March 11th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I guess Hillary was lying when she said she would not tolerate these kind of remarks.

SLO Bear   March 11th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Actually, what Ferraro said could be generously called an "attack." The Obama campaign is simply defending themselves and trying to preserve the party's November chances admidst a self-serving barage of dishonest Clinton attacks.

ram   March 11th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I fully agree with Ferraro comment, but in America, (many times hpocratic) you can't talk the truth in public.

Irishspacemonk   March 11th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Did I miss something? It sounds like Maggie Williams is rebuking the Obama campaign. Wasn't it Clinton supporter, Geraldine Ferraro's racist comments that deserved the rebuke??

Jude   March 11th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

She should be "fired" just like how Power was by Obama Team. There is no need for such language in the United States of America. The fact that Clinton's camp refuses to "fire" her shows the substance they are made of…their true colors!!!

Niky   March 11th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Why can't some people see Barack beyond color? Why can't they see that he sure can bring a change to USA.

The process has already begun… like I read somewhere (and agree with it) he did it just by running for the president. Look at the movement. Look at how many new voters are pouring in because of someone's promise that things will get better if everyone unites and works together for acheiving success.

Obama '08

Chris   March 11th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Geraldine Ferraro, what a completely ignorant thing to say!

Especially when it is just as easy to make the same point about Hillary…

A woman who has unfortunately no other claim to fame except that she is the WIFE of a former President. This is dumb gutter talk in any case but if you want to poke someone in the eye be careful you don;t go blind in the process.

Amazed   March 11th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

The difference between the two campaigns becomes clearer by the minute…

Barry   March 11th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Wait a minute, Williams is blaming Barack?

Dazed and Confused in DC   March 11th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Divisive? Maybe. Patently absurd? Absolutely not. No doubt people in Ms. Ferraro's position shouldn't make these kinds of comments. It was, in a word, stupid for her to do so. But not because what she said is absurd. A white male or any female with Sen. Obama's resume would have been laughed out of the race a year ago.

Pete   March 11th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

So, Hillary supporters, answer this question honestly. In the last two presidential elections, the Democrats won nearly 90% of the African-American vote. Both elections were decided by less than 3%, give or take. How, exactly, could Hillary expect to pull that much of the African-American vote with these scorched earth tactics. Never in a million years would I have EVER guessed that a Democrat would be calling anyone an Affirmative Action candidate the way Ferraro did. Disgraceful.

Ashley OKC   March 11th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

You, Maggie Williams, have crossed the line. To make excuses for this kind of behavior, this kind of racist behavior…

I would start updating your resume…

C   March 11th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

why was it SO IMPORTANT for Obama to Reject and Denounce the support of Farrakah but the same rules do not apply this this lady. Pelosi.

What is the difference?

Larry Dickman Des Moines, IA   March 11th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I am starting to understand the strategy here. Have someone make bad statements against Senator Obama, and then when his camp gets upset and says it should be rebuked, press him hard on Senator Clinton's statements about this election being about leadership.

Mia, Stafford, VA   March 11th, 2008 6:36 pm ET

How Maggie Williams continues to defend this behavior coming from people representing the Clintons is reprehensible. She is unbelieveable.

She blames the Obama campaign for what Geraldine Ferraro says, she blames the Obama campaign for being upset over the picture of Obama in Kenyan garb, saying he should be proud. These people have more than nerve!

Patrick   March 11th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Hillary Clinton should fire Ferraro immediately, no excuses!

There should be no tolerance for inflaming racist sentiments in this day and age, in this country. NO Mrs. Ferraro, Mr. Obama is NOT where he is because he is black. He is were he is because he is a talented and intelligent individual who is going to accomplish what you never could…WIN THE PRESIDENCY.

I expect all leaders in the Democratic party to denounce Ferraro's comment.

Jay   March 11th, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Maggie WIlliams chiming in on the matter can only help Obama.

Comments have been closed for this article

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