March 12, 2008
Posted: 05:05 PM ET
Ferraro stepped down after several days of controversial remarks.
Ferraro stepped down after several days of controversial remarks.

(CNN) – Geraldine Ferraro has stepped down from her role as a member of Hillary Clinton's finance committee.

In a letter to Clinton obtained by CNN's Suzanne Malveaux — who spoke with the former vice presidential candidate shortly after she sent it to Clinton — Ferraro said she is stepping down so, "I can speak for myself and you can continue to speak for yourself about what is at stake in this campaign."

In a phone conversation with Malveaux, Ferraro said she was not asked to step down by Senator Clinton or her campaign.

Ferraro said thousands of people are part of the finance committee, saying it is not a staff position, but a voluntary one for those who raise money for the campaign. She also said she has raised $125,000 for Senator Clinton.

When asked if she had any regrets about what she said, Ferraro replied, "absolutely not."

"I am who I am and I will continue to speak up," she said. She added that she thought it was a shame that the Obama campaign was trying to block her First Amendment rights, and that she felt that was no way to conduct a campaign.

She said, "it's not me slicing and dicing," a reference to Obama's comments earlier in the day accusing Ferraro of dividing the party.

Ferraro said David Axelrod, Obama's campaign manager and an acquaintance, should have called her to ask her the intention of her remarks, which she says the Obama campaign used to hurt Clinton.

When asked how she felt about Hillary Clinton distancing herself from her remarks, Ferraro replied, "I am perfectly fine," and that there were no hard feelings. She said she understands what Clinton is going through, and understands that being part of a presidential campaign is "very hard."

Full letter:

Dear Hillary –

I am stepping down from your finance committee so I can speak for myself and you can continue to speak for yourself about what is at stake in this campaign.

The Obama campaign is attacking me to hurt you. I won't let that happen.

Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do to make this a better world for my children and grandchildren.

You have my deep admiration and respect.

Gerry

(Updated 6 p.m. ET with additional reporting.)

CNN's Matt Hoye contributed to this report.

Filed under: Geralidine Ferraro • Hillary Clinton


kim portland, oregon   March 12th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

shut up, and GO AWAY!!! BOTH of you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tim   March 12th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Or they are attacking you because you are, in fact, a racist. If the Clinton campaign doesnt "denounce and reject" her in addition to accepting this resignation, the damage will be permanent.

bond   March 12th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Ferraro: "P.S. and one more thing I forgot to mention. I found a new position as the publict for David Duke."

Mike   March 12th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Go getem' Gerry!

Gini   March 12th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Bye bye racist lady…

Matt Los Angeles   March 12th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Newsflash for Geraldine Ferraro. Barack Obama is white. Half white. She's right when she says she's not a racist. She's a 'deep seated racist'. That is a fact.

Christian, Tampa FL   March 12th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

This is why Hillary shouldn't win the nomination. Ferraro does not appear to be the exception in the Clinton camp, but more like the rule. This is hardly an apology and her comments were unacceptable. The whole Clinton posse seems to be all about tearing the Democratic party into pieces.

Micheal   March 12th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

We are all free to make fools of ourselves. Have at it Gerry.

Ben from D.C.   March 12th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Please, let the door hit you on the way out.

Steve   March 12th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Here come the obnoxious Hillary supporters to repost their same comments over and over. Look for the name of the poster to be Fred or Charlotte or some other name you always see when they spam.

Realistic   March 12th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Hillary should reject and denounce Ferraro, although she can't at the risk of offending her core constituency of Mad Old Women and geezers with wheezers (seniors with oxygen bottles). Geraldine would be considered a young'un among Hillary supporters.

Joe   March 12th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

Hillary,
I am leaving your campaign so I can continue to make racist remarks without it harming you.
Thanks,
Gerry

Haley Rodman Clemson   March 12th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

This is the year of the spineless Democrat! There are so many apologies, resignations and aligator tears on the campaign trail, it's disgusting. Ferraro said what we were all thinking and was absolutely right. That's not reason to step down, it is reason to be promoted.

Sam   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Thank god! Good riddance. Hopefully you won't speak too much for yourself before you think a but about what is you are actually saying.

v.a.   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

OBAMA PLAYED THE RACE CARD BEFORE SOUTH CAROLINA ELECTIONS TO GET VOTES FROM AFRICAN AMERICANS AND AT THE SAME TIME HIS SUPPORTERS TRIED TO SHOW THAT THE CLINTONS WERE RACIAL AND NOW IT IS BACKFIRING AGAINST OBAMA !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Doug, Florida   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Good . About time

Steve, Seattle WA   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Pleeeezzze Ms Ferraro…..get a grip!

Tim   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

At least she's handling it with grace.

/snark

Richard, FL   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Reminds me of the song "One Less (dumb)Bell to Answer".

I TOO HAVE EXPERIENCE   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

GERRY YOU ARE SO FULL OF YOURSELF.

jan   March 12th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Well what can I say. It is sad for our country that this woman is going to continue to talk in such ignorant uneducated ways. She give credence to the slang term "the ugly american"

Yeah Right   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

"Gerry" needs to start being responsible about what she said and quit blaming others.

Jonathan   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

weirdo

4 shame   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Whatever….Gerry

Kusa   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Gag! Poor Geraldine! Blame the Obama camp for your stupidity!

Kareem from Hampton, Va.   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Wow….this is getting really ugly…..

Nick   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

I'm still amazed that she has said that Obama is where he is because he is black, that she got where she got because she was a woman, but has not once said that Hillary is where she is because she is a woman.

Wes   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

This is sad what she started in the first place. Obama has won more white states than black. And if being black was his great push to success why didnt Jesse Jackson have the same sucess. And believe that a white man who had more time in elected office than hillary, always been against the War and based his campaign off Change he wouldnt be doing as well? Then think about this if this same white man had won 29+ states twice as many as hillary and the popular vote would he even be questioned as the nominee.

And one last question if her last name wasn't Clinton would she still be in it

OBAMA 08

Dayahka   March 12th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Good riddance. She should have been asked to leave. Hillary's handling of this racist smear shows that she does not have the judgment to be a president–or vice-president, for that matter.

Ryan   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

The problem with the Clinton campain is the radical feminists, I have nothing against feminism, but I do have a problem with feminists who think they are the only ones in the history of the world that have been persecuted. From that they have a feeling of entitlement and the world owes them something, and I support Obama because he offers a vision of hope not negativity!

M. S. Indiana   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

1 down one to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Brian   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Geraldine Ferrara……..the gift that just keeps on giving.

Cecilie, WA   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

I'm happy to hear that, for the sake of the Democratic Party.

Susan, New York, New York   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Oh, throw up already.

Dan, Michigan   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Notice the incoherence in the statement when she refers to making this a better world for her grandchildren. To do to make? Wha?
I think she was crying at that point.

Melissa   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Good bye and good riddance. I'd be happy if both candidates focused on the issues and stopped hurting each other through surrogates. The only person this helps is McCain.

trbleshter   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

SEE YA….

Amy in Iowa   March 12th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Hillary should follow Geraldine Ferraro's lead.

Because Hillary should have apologized for endorsing McCain over Obama, Hillary should apologize for voting for the war in Iraq without reading the report, and Hillary should also release her joint tax returns for the past 6 years and her White House records.

There are quite a few things that Hillary should do but she hasn’t or just plain refuses to. And that is why we the voters should demand transparency and ethics from Hillary Clinton. So if Hillary continues to refuse, maybe Hillary should just go too.

Iowa   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

I absolutley agree - Ferraro and Hillary Clinton are doing a lousy job of representing the women of this country. It makes me ashamed.

rich   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Its about time Geraldine! Now..go quietly if you can. I think we all got your drift.

Vincent   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

What a sacrifice! And why did the Clinton news Network had to show us the letter??? Obama campaign is hurting me to hurt you.. gerry you have no shame and so your master.

Matt   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

am stepping down from your finance committee so I can speak for myself

Does this mean she'll continue to question whether Obama is qualified becuz of his race?

glad to see latent racists comments do not go unpunished.

Lilia, from PA   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Good that is what she should have done long time ago. her personal oppinion no body will be interested in hearing it. She can keep it to herself.

Mike Brian   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

What a pity for the democrat party! You can only resign to say the truth.

justin   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

"The Obama campaign is attacking me to hurt you.

I won't let that happen. "

LOL…is she kidding? it's a sad day when people can't own up to their own mistakes.

kg   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Awww…Gerry. No one is attacking you. You made a very dumb statement and got called out on it. That's all.

Darknesse   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Wow… Still looking for a "sorry for saying something incredibly stupid"…

Jackson Poolos   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Oh, brother.

matt   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

A smart intelligent woman taken down by the evil campaign of Obama. This woman in no way was being racist however, Obama continues to racially divide the democrats. For this I will have to go mccain if he wins in august

Conan   March 12th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Why's the mom from Eight is Enough stepping down from the Clinton Campaign?

Anonymous   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

what a loser.

Jennfizz   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

"Fact" according to Geraldine Ferraro is not necessarily fact for those who are not privileged.

At her age, Geraldine Ferraro should be the voice of wisdom rather than voicing this foolish drivvel - Shame on you!!!

matt   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Obama is evil for taking this type of aproach toward Hillary! he will continue too divide the democrats and force people like myself to vote mccain

Kay Tuner   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

i am glad she is gone. Her thinking has no place in US poitics. She will be speacking for herself in the racist arana. who cares???? Obama and Clinton are more civilized!!!

WhoKnows   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Her blaming the Obama campaign for the amount of negative reaction she has received over her own insulting words is baffling.
Hardwork and a need for change is why Obama is in the position he is in. She is an idiot.

Mr. C.   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

God!!! This Woman really is Racist. Can someone just get rid of her already!!! As long as she is clinton's Supporter, anything she says in the future about race would hurt the clinton's campaign whether she's still in the camp or out of the camp. Old women these days, they just don't get it.

Jason Troupin   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Ferraro is a has been politician who used the current campaign to draw attention to her self one last time. But of course, Hillary likes surrounding herself with people of this caliber. This makes me want to see Obama win even more.

LisaMpls   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Obama is wasting too much time on Ms. Ferraro today. It's not like she was one of Hillary's top advisors. She was a fundraiser. There is a difference. Obama constantly talks about how people are "divisive." That talk alone makes things worse. His finger-pointing is not exactly unity-inspiring. Just leave it be and move on.

Adam   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

"The Obama campaign is attacking me to hurt you."

Uh, no Geraldine. You made an unabashedly racist statement, and AMERICA is attacking you. Every pundit on television. White people, brown people, black people - EVERYONE.

Obama's camp never even used the term "racist" - EVERYONE ELSE DID. Not to mention you said the SAME thing about Jesse Jackson in '88.

You have a pattern of discrediting black politicians because of their skin color.

Good riddance.

RT   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Its Obama's fault that I made racist remarks!!!

go_obama   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

At last, she resigns. Go Obama!

DaCoach   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Just wondering. Is it any coincidence that around the time of two strong Obama showings in states with high black populations that one of Clinton's inner circle just happened to remind us that Barrack got the black vote and he just happens to be black.

Jason E   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

It's about time. What a disgusting woman. How dare she accuse the Obama campaign of racism. That is not only offensive, it's idiotic. Is there no sewer to which Clinton's surrogates won't happily sink in the name of taking Obama out of the race? Jesus. Ferraro is gone - now it's Hillary's turn to bow out. Won't happen a moment too soon.

Tim   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Actually you hurt yourself. The damage has already been done, but thank you for stepping down.

Jazz   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

I understand Gerry. Keep the faith. Time will back your truth up.
You have my deep admiration and respect also. It's just politics people. It's all in the game. Take it to the convention Hill. May the BEST WOMAN WIN. Hillary '08 !!!!

Baida   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Dear Gerry;

Thank you for your smart move, it seems that your trick is working. If I get the nomination you will be my VP.

Billary

Jessica   March 12th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Give me a break!

Hillary   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

wow. When Samantha Power stepped down, she apologized and was full of honor.

What a difference. Geraldine, you sound bitter and vindictive.

Scott C   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Power of the Obama campaign apologized for what she said about Hilly even though it was all true.

Obama denounced her comments.

Ferraro doesn't apologize in any way for what she did, she stands by it and actually thinks the Obama camp is at fault over this.

Clinton has yet to denounce what Ferraro said about Obama.

Clinton most likely agrees with Ferraro…

Her comments are a slap in the face to every American who voted for Obama and is a scapegoat for why Clinton is doing so poorly.

Clinton needs to denounce and reject him now. She says she rejects racism… well now it is time to see if she IS solutions and not just speeches.

grace   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

To bad Ms. Ferraro has to stop doing her job just because everyone is too PC and fawning to realize what she said is the truth. Where o where has free speech gone? I would also like to ask, why can't any one say Obamas' middle name? Is he ashammed of it?

Politico Jonze   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Expect the gloves to really come off with her now. I would like to see somebody ask her if she believes Hillary is benefiting among certain voter blocks because she is a woman. It would be a logical question. Another logical question would be if she feels that a certain percentage of people are not voting for Obama because he is black.

Obama needs to walk away from this fight, as he can't win now as she'll gladly go down if she can bring him down with her. He needs to take the high road or ignore her altogether.

Jesse - San Antonio TX   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Punished for telling the truth.

What is America coming to?

We have to always tip toe around some minority block so their feelings don't get hurt.

Jackson   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Just goes to show that Obama should not be a Democratic candidate at all … he should have his own party … call it Obama-maniacs … the real democrats are for Hillary.
Hillary '08 … all the way for the USA!

tom   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Is it any wonder why there has been only two dem administrations since the sixties? This is a COMPLETE collection of losers.

McCain '08

NY'er   March 12th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Ferraro is a heroine and leader and should not be silenced by the Obama campaign. She speaks her mind and has the right to do so in America.
I comment her for her last words and hope the best for her.

John M.   March 12th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

"I'm stepping down so I can continue spread racist blather and finish tarnishing my legacy in order to help your campaign race-bait without being blamed for it. Thank you."

Eric   March 12th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Melodramatic.

michelle becker   March 12th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

another one bites the dust

dallasiteforhillary   March 12th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Yea for Gerry-. Well said.

Lauren   March 12th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

GOOD BYE! It's about time, thats for sure. She started the battle, NOT OBAMA.

Bruce   March 12th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Who cares what Geraldine thinks or says at this point? She was history BEFORE she missed a wonderful opportunity to keep her mouth shut. And why in heaven's name is this getting so much press coverage. We don't CARE.

julie, ca   March 12th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Pathetic letter. Hilary should have shown some LEADERSHIP and RESPONSIBILITY for her campaign and asked her immediately to resign. Obama showed good judgement when we asked his advisor to resign. Another good judgement on behalf of Obama. Poor judgement, Clinton.

Mike Brian   March 12th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

What a pity for the democrat party!

You can only resign to say the truth!

Fahd Mumtaz   March 12th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

It's not that Obama is attacking you, it's that everyone can see that you've made a fool of yourself. Your comments were out of line… you know it, Senator Clinton knows it & best of all the people know it

So stop pointing fingers and playing the blame game… take responsibility for your words and act your age

You thought you could say this and get away with it. It was a cheap down-market & mean spirited thing for you to do. We didn't expect this from a woman of your standing… And now you're throwing a 'hissy fit'

Get a life…

SN   March 12th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

I await HC's statement that she both "denounces" and "rejects" Ferraro's comments. But I'm not holding my breath.

Adam, Los Angeles   March 12th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Good! She was really starting to get on my last nerve!

Mary   March 12th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Another example of a Clinton supporter twisting a story to try to appear as the victim. How sad!

Carl Fraizer, Mountain Home Idaho   March 12th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Good! Good riddance to bad garbage. Now we just need Hillary to get out of the way and let true progress happen! I never want to see another Clinton or Bush run for anything!

bymyside   March 12th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

See ya!

Your bitterness and divisiveness should have no place in this campaign or in our politics.

Take responsibility for your own actions.
That is what we teach our children and our grandchildren.

Kiwi Pete   March 12th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

I don't think she's racist. She was attacking the media, after all, and accusing them of racial bias, albeit positive.

I do think she should shut up, or at least get some medication, before she does anymore damage.

Carolina Gal   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

What happened to FREEDOM OF SPEECH!
What she said was the truth as she saw it. Many other seemed to agree with her. What's wrong with that?.

flashback   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Come Clean, Geraldine !!!!

Beth   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Another racist…. done gone……….. Ferraro is soooo yesterday

Independent Voter   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

What happened to our first ammendment? Isn't free speech protected by the US constitution?

KLJ   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Sorry to see a voice of reason leave the campaign, but she's right: she can do more good as an independent voice of reason. Any one who thinks race is not a factor is NOT paying attention…A junior senator with a mainstream, mediocre record? Spare me!

Chuck in Bama   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

HERE! HERE! Grace. Well written. Right on the nose.

Bob   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Good call, the best thing to do… big head

johnny   March 12th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

What a disgusting letter. Mark my words, this divisiveness will hand John McCain the White House. Show some decency (for once) and just drop out Hillary.

Your presence is doing more harm to the nation than good.

Corey   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Gerry's comments were awful, unnecessary and just untrue. This is no time for such divisive attacks. See ya!

Dean   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

The Obama campaign paying the race card to shut people's real voice for his background and question for him, he's behavior is so ugly.

Joseph Claghorn   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

If this is the kind of news we can look forward to for the next six weeks, no one is going to care come April 22. There will be a slew of resignations on both sides.

Den   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

This is all so very fake. I hope the rest of the world can see that this is all staged by the Clinton camp. Give me a break.

LisaMpls   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Scott C, Hillary did say she disagreed with Ms. Ferraro's comments, and the campaign has distanced themselves from Ms. Ferraro's comments. Obama didn't ask Power to step down…she did it on her own, just like Ms. Ferraro did here, so where is the difference?

Jason in Juneau   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

There's free speech and then there's being inappropriate and mis-using the media to put an untruth out on the air. If you speak on someone's behalf, you must be echoing their views. Does Hillary feel like Ferraro?

Eric   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Interesting…she still doesn't realize what she said that's so appalling.
" am stepping down from your finance committee so I can speak for myself " - hum..does that mean she was speaking for the campaign earlier?

Alexis   March 12th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Geraldine, youcan add this experience to your tiny blip in the history of American electoral politics.

michael   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

even the "resignation" letter of a disgraced surrogate is dripping with clintonian arrogance.

jfs Memhis, Tn   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

She did the right thing…………..now lets get on.

Ron Heegs   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Sad world. Go Clinton

Chris-Seattle   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Hopefully your children and grandchildren will grow up to think differently than you!

Bob Stephens   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

One less Race baiter in the Clinton Campaign.

Julie   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

All I can say is good riddance to bad rubbish. I was hoping the Democratic party could take the high road and not perform like the republicans, but the clintons have brought this whole campaign to the gop gutter level. I personally wish Geraldine would take Hill and Bill with her - I don't care for any of their brand of politics. If they think stunts like this will win them votes, I think they're truly mistaken. I have grown to dislike the clintons even more than I dislike the bush admin.

Troy, Seattel WA   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Gerry was right!

Chloe   March 12th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Everyone is racist if they speak out against Obama or do not vote for Obama!!!!

Helena Montana   March 12th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

As my mother used to say: "Good riddance to bad rubbish"!

frozencustard   March 12th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Seriously Ms. Ferraro. The Obama campaign is not attacking you to hurt Sen. Clinton. The Obama campaign was responding to racist comments that you made. They have said absolutely nothing about you for the past year - until you put your foot in your mouth. So please stop playing the victim. Every time you say something, you end up generating more controversy. And we, the voters, see right through that. Please stop insulting us.

Patrick   March 12th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Ferraro speaks the TRUTH!! I will not vote for Obama and his victim campaign that does not focus on issues and calls everything against him a racist attack!

anne   March 12th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

She does not get it at all.

Hazel   March 12th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

GOOD RIDDANCE

indthinker   March 12th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I beleive Gerry's comment was calculated just as President Clinton's was before the South Carolina vote. If the Clinton Campaign can continue to portray Obama as the Black candidate, they can successfully put doubts in the mind of mainstream America that he would be unelectable in a general election against McCain. Of course Hillary and her campaign are not publicly objecting to the remarks or apologizing, it is part of the strategy. The best the Obama campaign can do is to continue to ignore these nonsense tactics and continue to rack up the delgates. Gerry was sacrificed for the campaign. They will drag out others for kamikaze stunts as we get closer to Pennsylvania.

Roz, IL   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

i find it totally disgusting that every time race is injected(usually on hills side) and it back fires, it's always the obamas camp fault. Ferraro,knew her statements were going to cause the reactions that they did, she just didn't care, and know she wants to blame the obama camp for her stupidity. whatever..i am a Obama supporter, but that doesn't matter, because no matter who the dem nominee is,they are not going to win. so get ready for another 4 yrs or repub rule

Tracy   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Barack Hussien Obama has my full support, and I am a 40 year white woman in the State of Texas. Not ashamed to say his name at all.

LatinoNation   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I see that Obama and his supporters are woman HATERS and its so true and what this woman has said is true neither of them would be in this race they are very lucky to be and yes if affirmative actions was not the case it would never have happened so HATE you women HATERS say it I know you will because you HATE ! you can never say anything Good even Obamas people are starting to be regular old politicians and all you did now is Hurt the Party and we are becoming more and more disliking because you dont shut up instead you drive us away so Mrs Clinton Take it its your to take or it will be McCains to take !!!

My Brain, Los Angeles, CA   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Geraldine said that same stupid comment about Jesse Jackson in '88. Oops! I think I said that out loud! I'm glad she resigned, but the resignation doesn't seem to be to heartfelt. I forgot racist have no heart anyway. BYE-BYE Geraldine!

Obama Doublespeak   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Why should Hillary have fired her? Obama didn't fire Powers. They both resigned. How is what Hillary is doing worse than Obama.

Erin   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Shame on you Geradine…shame on you!!!!

DeeNC   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I don't believe Obama's campaign told her to speak to media and I do not believe Obama's campaign told her to basically reiterate the same thing again this morning. Imagine the firestorm had a member of Obama's camp said the only reason Hilary is where she is is because she is a woman. heck he fired someone last week for calling her a monster. I'll say this- the only reasons Hilary is still in this race is because Obama is black and the her last name is Clinton. For the Record- Obama has more legislative experience as than Hilary. And another thing what experience did Bill have to be Commander and Chief when he was running for president. How soon we forget.

jer   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

long overdue, but glad she stayed in long enough to bloody up clinton

Technog   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

The truth hurts. Racism is back, SC had a white family beat up on a black newswomen, no only physical by verbal slur's. See for yourself on carolinascw.com (Charmayne Brown,reporter)
SC

shane   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

The democratic nomination has turned into a circus. It is very disheartening for sure. the party of "tolerance" are the ones that continue to talk about race! You would expect soemthing like this to come from republicans but democrats? No. I dont think geraldine ferraro should of said what she said simply because we all know the race issue is a sensitive issue. I personally dont care about someones race, but some people do. The thing with me is her comments just seemed kind of dumb. think about it for a second. She says that barack wouldnt be where he is at if he were a WHITE MAN. Its almost laughable when you think about the fact that 43 white men have been the front runner in the democratic party! ANd 43 whitle males have been president! In reality it seems that anyone but a white man would have DIFFICULTY gaining the presidency.

Also if being black was somehow a built in advantage, then why didnt ALAN KEYES win when he ran for presidency? OR jesse jackson or al sharpton. barack is not the first black man to run for president. If he were the first black man to run for the presidency, then maybe she would have some credibility to her claims. But hes not.! ANd those BLACK men that did run did not do as well as obama is doing. SHe fails to state the obvious: Barack is doing so good because of his charisma, not his skin color. Its because of his eloquence, not his race. "He has the advantage because he's black" is something you dont hear in AMERICA everyday. In fact its totally absurd to think such a thing when you actually think about it.

Susan   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I wonder if she received a call from Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson. She should have.

Hillary, it's not too late for you to step down also. You might as well do it now.

HC   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Gerry,

Thanks for all your work.

You join an elite club of my surrogates and supporters who have crossed a bold line into dismissive, insulting, personal, denigrating, false, demeaning attacks against my opponent that have lowered the discourse, hurt the party, and appealed to the darker forces of our nature. I couldn't be more grateful.

Hillary

marie herrera   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

this is so sad. i am in 100% agreement with Ferrero. we do not need obama in power. as a dem if clinton doesnt get the demnomination then come nov i will break party line and vote for mc cain even though i dont like the man he is better than obama. wake up people we are about to see reverse oppression wielded by obama if he gets office and as ferrero sd i too feel discriminated against all the time. it seems they can yell foul, unfair, discrimination, and get what ever they want and we are becoming the majority minority. dont put this man in power.

Andrew   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I voted for Ferraro, If I knew then, what I know now, I would not have wasted it on her. Sometimes it takes a while for people to reveal the depths of their soul. Ferraro has done this, racist. Best that she stepped down and not drag Clinton in the mud with her.

nht   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I think CNN needs to start asking people what their age is in these comments. It's obvious it is always fillaed with people that can not even vote yet. I'm glad to hear our media is being influenced by teenagers.

n. miller   March 12th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I think that Ms. Ferraro should end the discussion and fade out of the spot light. She made a dumb statement that has upset a large number of people and now it is time to apology and fade away.

Ags Win   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Ferraro made the exact same comments (almost word for word) about Jesse Jackson when he ran for president in 1984. Looks like she has a habit of racist comments.

LisaMpls   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

It's interesting that all of the online polls I have seen favor Ms. Ferraro…the majority of people say she shouldn't apologize and that she shouldn't resign. So maybe America does agree with her?

robert   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

she is such a piece of garbage…I hope she slithers back into her hole

Dave, Milwaukee WI   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Wow…just wow. This woman is ten times more pompous and arrogant than Hillary. Never thought I'd live to see that.

Peachy Keen   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

You're still a racist. Of course, so is Hillary, she just won't say so until after she is out of this thing.

On another note, now that Obama has won more delegates in Texas than Hillary, isn't it time she stopped claiming she won that state? Obama can now put it in his win column.

karen   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Way to go taking the fall for your pal Hill, but I hate to break it to you, Gerry. There won't be a cabinet position for you down the road because your girlfriend is going to lose.

Melissa   March 12th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

To Grace, could you tell me what Hillary Clinton's middle name is, or John McCain's? Mitt Romney's? John Edwards? Didn't think so. The only reason Obama's comes up is to encourage the false belief that he is a Muslim. And free speech is alive and well — Ferraro said something that people did not like, and she was called on it. Having free speech does not mean that we can say whatever we want and everyone else has to accept it. The fact that Obama was a constitutional law professor is yet another reason why he has my support.

Peggy   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

About time!!!

There is not place for those kinds of remarks in this race!

Dale   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Hillary Rodham would have never made it as far as Hillary Clinton has. What's sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.

Scrinine   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Sorry Geraldine, too late, after your comments (which were never repudiated by the Clinton campaign) I'm over "The Hill".

Chuck   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I feel badly for Geraldine and yet am stunned by her comments.
Unfortunately two shining lights of the Democrats, Spitzer and Ferraro, have hurt the Democratic Party with their poor judgement!

Chris   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Wow, what a petty grump of an old woman.

Mike Richardson   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

CNN, why this board is dominated by 90% of Obama supporters, and why those Obama supporters are always so bitter and hateful? Obama claimed that his supporters are ‘well-educated’ ‘up-scale’ voters. Are you kidding?

Pierre-Damien Mvuyekure, Ph.D.   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

For Ms. Ferraro and those who agree with her that she was stating a fact, would they feel comfortable if anyone were to make a comment that Senator Hillary Clinton has been successful in those states she won because she is a woman? Wouldn't that be sexist and demeaning to her?

Mat From FL   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I am deeply bothered by the fact that people confusing the words racial and racist. Her comments were racial but not racist. The fact that she had to stepped down saddens me because it shows how far this campaign has gone.
In either case I am glad that she never apologized for her comments. She should stand by what she said and the fact that she is free now to talk I am expecting to here more from her. It is time for the media to stop silencing and keeping everything hush hush to try to be PC.

lbr, jersey city, nj   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

HURRAY GERALDINE!!!!!. DO THAT BECAUSE OTHERWISE EVERYONE WILL BE SCARED TO TELL THE TRUTH. WHAT YOU SAID WAS REALLY THE TRUTH. SO I DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS THE BIG DEAL. DO WE REALLY HAVE TO HANDLE THEM WITH GENTLE CARE ALL THE TIME? WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

I APPLAUD WHAT YOU DID. YOU DON'T NEED TO APOLOGIZE. YOU DID NOT SAY ANYTHING THAT IS NOT TRUE. I HOPE THERE WILL BE MORE PEOPLE LIKE YOU

O Canadian   March 12th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Geraldine who? What century? Too bad she didn't notice the world moved on from this kind of stuff. That's the real essence of her comments. Ten years ago, your country certainly wouldn't have moved a black man forward just because he was black. That's more insulting to the American people than it is to Obama!!

JDB   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I've never been so ashamed of my party and what Hillary Clinton has done to it.

Leslie   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Why do all the crazies type in all caps and include approximately 4382 exclamation points in their comments?

John   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Ms Ferraro.

Perhaps your remarks would not have been taken so poorly if they had been original. Unfortunately, you were simply repeating the exact same statement you made in 1988 about Jesse Jackson.

Fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, shame on you. You, Ms. Ferraro, are a racist.

MickyD10   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

v.a.

And what alternate reality do you live in?

marrig   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

This woman is absolutely dreadful - no judgment whatsoever. However, it is not surprising that Hillary didn't do much to bring a halt to her ongoing comments. That may have been big mistake on HRC's part.

forhillary   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I am a Hillary supporter and NO ONE from the Obama campaign "attacked you."

You shouldn't have said what you said and you know it… you said the same kind of comments in '88.

Grow up. Go work for the Republicans.

Steve   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Dear Geraldine;

Good bye and good riddance. Can you take Billary with you..

srobe   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I think the curtains are opening and showing who the Clintons are. I am an African American woman anda Dem. I have never, never voted Republican, if she wins the nomination, I will vote for John McCain. I dont trust her, birds of the same feathers flock together.

Skeeve, NYC, NY   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

You know… these tit for tat resignations are rather childish and ridiculous… we are not in high school, really

Desiree   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I think it's sad how David Axelrod and the Obama camp are using this to their advantage and ruining the reputation of Ms Ferraro. Any one who knows her knows she is not racist, I feel sad for this country.

Mike Brian   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

What a pity, you can only resign to say the truth

Smart1   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

I THINK ALL OF THESE "ADVISERS" ON BOTH SIDES JUST NEED TO SHUT THEIR PIE HOLE!

THEY ARE NOT HELPING EITHER PARTY!

LIZ KEESEE   March 12th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Racism and Sexism has abounded in this campaign. Neither will UNITE a country.

Gawania   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Marie Herrera if you are that prejudice that you would leave the democrat party rather than vote for a black candidate go on.

Sabrina, Las Vegas, NV   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

You're setting women back 10

BOB   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

RUN GERRY RUN!!!

Joshua   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

I'm sick and tired of Obummer's race card issues.

Keith   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

The Clintons have shown their true colors as of late. America wake up and see these folks for what they are. Are they racists? Probably not but they sure know when to strategically play the race stuff. Goodbye Gerry and hopefully the same regarding Hillary.

Brian   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

The comments WERE factual, not racist. Sorry that she stepped down, actually.

Anonymous   March 12th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

She should step down, it is no less than what they have demanded from the Obama campaign when someone has said something that Clinton does not feel is appropriate. Clinton has two sets of standards. She needs to quit whining and get on with it or get out.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   March 12th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Another fine example of the obstacles facing the Democratic party. They are so burdened by the tender feelings of so many socio-centric groups…they are being torn apart.

Clearly–not factual truth this is not 100 percent politically correct can ever be discussed. No wonder our congress is impotent to accomplish anything of value.

Dylan from CA   March 12th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Good riddance! …Now take Hillary with you before she completely destroys the party!

Paris   March 12th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Gerry, you are an honorable woman and I am saddened to see the Obama camp to use this.
Race is a factor, it will be factor and there is no denying it.

sam   March 12th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Telling the truth is not racism. Its the reality that matters. When people express in words what they see around them is not racism. If people say that 90% of the blacks voted for Obama in Mississipi - its not racism - its a fact - a reality!

Hillary is the best.   March 12th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

you obama supporters got it all wrong. Obama is the one playing race card.

Darth Vadik, CA   March 12th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Does everybody in Hillary's camp play a victim?

What is up with that?

Elly   March 12th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Small loss in my opinion….you speak with racist undertones you suffer the consequences and it really speaks volumes about your character as a person.Sad excuse for an American in my opinion!!

John Wohlmut   March 12th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Grace:

Look inside yourself and discover why you would want to use his middle name.

If his middle name was English sounding you wouldn't even mention the subject.

Obama 08   March 12th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

What she is covertly saying is that she wants to feel free to be the racist she is. She made the comment. How is the Obama campaign trying to hurt Hillary? Geraldine we saw through you in 1984 and we can still see through you in 2008. Let pull out the old fork because Hillary's is done.

noreen   March 12th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

would someone at cnn please address Obama stating he did not campaign in Florida? he had air time here the night before the primary–why do people like wolf blitzer and jack cafferty ignore this fact? it appears this would be big news if another candidate did this. let us see who reports this first; cnn or msnbc?

DFR   March 12th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Hillary Clinton has already damaged the chance of her or Obama to win in November. Why not keep Gerry on your team and continue what you've started.

Austin, Texas   March 12th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Hillary will win the Democratic nomination, or McCain will win the presidency. A very high percentage of Clinton supporters will vote McCain in a General Election based on experience during this time.

Hillary can still offer change.
Obama cannot offer experience.

Ann   March 12th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

What a pity, you can only resign to say the truth.

vicki   March 12th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Geraldine Ferraro?? I thought she died several years ago.

Kay   March 12th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

See you later, you could not have resigned fast enough.

Obama 08!!!

Troy from Springfield IL   March 12th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Dig that hole, Gerry. Dig that hole!

My Brain, Los Angeles, CA   March 12th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

What about all the other states like Virginia, Iowa, Wi, and so on, that have voted for Obama. Those states don't seem to have a large black population, or did I miss something?

DTNC   March 12th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Geralidine has done her duty, she has played the race card for Hillary. Mr. Obama is not a product of the "party" but is a self made success in the American Tradition, he deserves to be a candidate President.

MickyD10   March 12th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Boy oh boy,

If this whole thing wasn't contrived as a political ploy, I'll eat my hat. This whole thing is planned and calculated to piss off Hillary's main constituency…………older women. Isn't it obvious???

Jordan   March 12th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Mrs. Ferraro you should be mentor and an example to your children and grandchildren; However I am sure your children would rather vote for a candidate Obama, a person who stayed above your dirty politics in Washington!

Oh livin lord   March 12th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

The Obama camp is attacking me to hurt you?

What? Can someone explain that?

I didn't even know who this woman was before she made her idiotic statement so congrats Gerry, you have now been branded as a moron by thousands of young voters like me. All of the positives you may have accomplished in the 80s means zilch to us now. Seeee ya

D.Kimbro OHIO   March 12th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

It is about time. What is going to happen in November?? I really think we will lose the White House again. It is a shame that this type of conversation takes our eyes of of deeper issues.

voter   March 12th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

GO GERRY! About time someone states the obvious, what she said was TRUE so get over yourselves!

Jyh1920   March 12th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Drama queen….

Ardnuas   March 12th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

These kind of remarks are going to CAUSE the Republicans to WIN in November…………You would think they would speak this way about John McCain, so they keep the Democrats united !!!!!
This is a STUPID thing to do to your own Democrated Party !!!!!
Obama/Edwards08 Si Se Puede

Antonio, Alabama   March 12th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Hey Shane,
I could have not said it better myself…… THANK YOU FOR THE MUCH NEEDED COMMON SENSE AND SANITY in this crazy situation…!

Rosa   March 12th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Don't let the door hit you on the way out! Good riddance to you! And by the way, I'm not an Obama or Clinton supporter - I'm just tired of this sad display of a whacked out political process.

Mike in Texas   March 12th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Not good enough. Billary should have asked her to step down.
G.F. is a good example of a real racist. She can't even see the problem with what she said and why it's wrong. She needs to seek help.

Gaby   March 12th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Geraldine may have stepped down, but she is still plans to fund raise to contribute to HRC's campaign, So if Hillary were to accept this funding, then this means she condones what Geraldine has said . What happened to denounce and reject HRC?

Sharon   March 12th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

The conduct of the Clinton campaign has been disturbing, divisive and racist! I voted for Hillary in my state's caucus and am a delegate to a county convetion this weekend. Because of these disgusting, over-the-top tactics by the Clinton campaign, tactics I believe are destroying the Democratic Party, I'm changing my vote and will now support Barrack Obama.

Elaine Wilson, Kentucky   March 12th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Don't think you are hurtin Hillary . This is hurting obama

Freida NYC   March 12th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

No matter how much you tried to divide us Mr. Obama, you are not getting my vote. It is either Hillary or Mc.Cain. Now, are you going to call me racist for saying this? What happened to freedom of the speech…of course only it it suits you, right!?

Obama please go away! You are making blacks and whites hate each other, and instead of moving forward in history we are going backwards. Is this the kind of change you are preaching about?

Hillary/Mc.Cain

Jim   March 12th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Come on America. This is the United States of America, the greatest country in the world. But I have to tell you that I'm a white male and I am not very proud of my country right now. Our children as well as the world are watching us. We need to get it together and stop acting like spoiled children who what to take their ball and go home. We can disagree, but it's wrong when it gets personal. Grow up America!!!!

Larry Buchas   March 12th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Another point. Get a grip, Obama supporters. Hillary has rejected Ferraro's comments. Those comments were completely stupid and even Clinton staffers agree. But some of these "geezer" comments are just as bad.

Clinton supporters,
You need to distance yourself from this vindictive, hateful old lady. Obama & Hillary are the two best candidates remaining, not McCain.

Unless you want the Supreme Court to turn into a right-wing reversal of our laws?

Arthur-Texas   March 12th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

She told the truth and it hurt her.Now we must all be very careful what we say regarding Obama.We cannot even mention his middle name.
What is going on?Do we have freedom of speech or not?The fact is many white people are supporting him because they feel they owe him something becuase of his race,but remember that his family were not slaves (at least not in the usa),therefore one should not feel guilty about that.

Terry, TX   March 12th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Gerry, how do you explain the fact that Obama won the whitest states in the nation (idaho, iowa, etc….)
It's because he is black right…

Maybe you need to make a stop in rehab in order to have a brain check.

ELIZABETH, MIAMI FLORIDA   March 12th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Gerry, needs to move on and quit living in the past. You are a racist and you have outlived your time. Go bury your head up your rear you did the same thing with Jessie Jackson and caused problems for Mondale.

NUKETHEDEMS   March 12th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Man am I enjoying this! Watching the democrats nightly round of flaggellation and stupidity is a better reality format than American Idol or Survivor could ever hope to be.Of course the news creeps who run CNN FOX PMSNBC ABC CBS and NBC just love it. Keep it up you fools!

inem jack   March 12th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

I think the candidates should concentrate on the issues. Enough of these distractions.

Obama Spins out of Control   March 12th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

This Obama is just swinging out of control. It's too bad it has come to this. I think you are doing more harm than good.

terry   March 12th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

So long!

You won't be missed!

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