March 17, 2008
Posted: 12:45 PM ET
CNN

Watch Bill Clinton speak with CNN's Sean Callebs.

(CNN) — Former President Bill Clinton defended his role in his wife's presidential campaign in South Carolina, disputing claims he made race a campaign issue.

"What happened there is a total myth and a mugging," Clinton told CNN's Sean Callebs in New Orleans, Louisiana, over the weekend.

"It's been pretty well established. Charlie Rangel … the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, said in unequivocal terms in South Carolina that no one in our campaign played any race card, that we had some played against us, but we didn't play any."

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • Bill Clinton


TheLeftNut   March 17th, 2008 9:59 am ET

I would like to see BOTH Hillary and Obama say that if they loose they should vote for the Democratic nominee NO MATTER WHAT

I'm sick of these Hillary and Obama extremists.

Mark   March 17th, 2008 9:59 am ET

This guy is such a slug

Mrs. Rangel Is For Obama   March 17th, 2008 10:02 am ET

By the way, Charlie Rangel's wife if for OBAMA. Charlie Rangel is just as irrelevant as Obama's pastor.

Obama 08

Donnie J   March 17th, 2008 10:03 am ET

Yes you did.

Tom, Cville, VA   March 17th, 2008 10:04 am ET

Stop, Bill, just stop. Enough with your spin and your pretzel-twisting of your own words. Let's all unite behind the leader in states, delegates, and vote: Obama.

joe   March 17th, 2008 10:05 am ET

WE HAVE OBAMA MINISTER OF 20 YEAR MAKING DIRECT RACIAL

SLUR ON VIDEOS BEEN SEEN ON ALL MAJOR NEW OUTLETS

AND YOU TUBE…AND CNN IS ON PRES. CLINTON..

GIVE ME A BREAK!!!

OBAMA IS NO LONGER ELECTABLE FOR THE WHITE HOUSE

This Dem Does Like Hillary   March 17th, 2008 10:06 am ET

This Democrat does not like one of the candidates. Guess who, Bill–it's Hillary. She is dishonest and a liar, and she should never be our president. We've already had seven years of that, why would we vote for another liar in the White House.

Bill, here's a newsflash–we don't believe you.

Obama 08

Rick in Florida   March 17th, 2008 10:06 am ET

GIVE…ME….A….BREAK.

Gregory Mutale   March 17th, 2008 10:06 am ET

TheLeftNut,

Obama already has made it clear he would support Hillary…..however Hillary decided to say that john mccain is more qualified.

Mike in Houston   March 17th, 2008 10:06 am ET

Bill just can't stand the fact that African-Americans may now be acting independently of the democratic establishment. His comment was racist, he knows it.

Diane   March 17th, 2008 10:07 am ET

And we all know we can believe anything Bill says — NOT!! I'm a white women who is NOT voting for Hillary. I'll bet there are black men not voting for Barack. It's time the media quits putting the racism in this election. Let's report on the candidates accomplishments & records ONLY.

maynard   March 17th, 2008 10:07 am ET

folks gas is $5.20 a Gal.. This is what happens when you get people in the whitehouse that doesn,t care about the working man. It started with good OLD BILL and now the mouth wants the job.

2nd Amendment might be used yet

LNAB   March 17th, 2008 10:07 am ET

very glad Bill spoke up about the specious charges from the Obama campaign that injected race into this campaign

Obama seems willing to do anything it takes to get a few votes, even if it means dividing the party on a "non-existent" issue

mary winck   March 17th, 2008 10:07 am ET

The Clintons taught us during the 90's " politics of personal destruction". Can't blame their problems on the republicans this time!!!

NoHillary   March 17th, 2008 10:08 am ET

Oh yah right, we heard you… when Hillary was preparing for the South Carolina debates, you told her, "don't worry Hillary, you'll be all-white." That's proof, that you started it right there!

Rod   March 17th, 2008 10:08 am ET

I live in South Carolina. You most certainly did play the race card and it is totally digusting to us here.

Proudly voted for Obama here in SC as did my whole family.

CaliMale4Hill   March 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

we need to unite with a Clinton/Obama ticket

Bill Played The Card   March 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

LOL, let me say this one more time. Barack Obama would never have had 80% of the black vote, in South Carolina, if you hadn't play the race card. So Hillary would have receive a lot of black votes, if Bill had kept his mouth shut.

He played the race card, she lost the black votes. It's very simple.

Keep talking Bill, maybe you will lose more votes.

George   March 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

I did not have any sexual relationship with that woman, Ms Lewinsky.

Remember that Bill…..??????

joe   March 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

Did he just call the Obama campaign saying he went negative a 'mugging'. OMG! He just did it again.

Jay   March 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

This is the same man, who had prononuced to the world that he did not have sex with Monica, only to eat his words when he was proven wrong.

No matter what he and Hillary say they started the race card. Now Obama has been labeled the balack candidate and Hillary the female candidate. Its a shame what has become of this democratic party. The rules are no longer rules. Florida and Michigan don't count but now there is a rush to make then count.

Why don't politicians have any rules that they can stick to.

Bill is as racist as Imus is?

Not true   March 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

I did not throw the kitchen sink at that man!! I did not bring race into this campaign!

We know he will say anything - true or not true - for his purpose.

Cy, Hatfield, PA   March 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

Obama is an idiot

LifeLongDemocrat   March 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

Obama didn't play the race card, he had his surrogates do it!
He has ensured a McCain presidency.

Kat, PA   March 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

When did Charlie Rangel become the judge of what is racist and what isn't? I am so sick of Hillary and Bill. Go away!

Frances Kogen   March 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

Hillary will do anything to get elected–or so they say. Then Obama throws his friend and spiritual advisor of 20 years under the bus, over the hill, off the bridge to protect his electability. Ho hum! What's a blogger to do?

Brandon   March 17th, 2008 10:11 am ET

No, you really did.

Common Sense   March 17th, 2008 10:11 am ET

CNN… please quit with all the back and forth crap that is not relevant to the race.
Just report on the issues that MATTER!

TheLeftNut   March 17th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Gregory Mutale wrote: "Hillary decided to say that john mccain is more qualified"

Yes, I know. Inexcusable. Guess who I'm leaning towards.

I would like to see them say it, together, on camera.

Eric S   March 17th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Bill is right. No matter what he did or what he said, AAs are going to vote for a black candidate. That's just a fact.

Tiffany   March 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

Just like he never had sexual relations with that woman. Think before speaking Bill-it helps

Jay MN   March 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

He says they didn't play the race card, and that they were played against them?

Wow…he worked two outright lies into one sentence.

But then, he's a Clinton.

"Yes we will" lie cheat, and steal to win.

Lew   March 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

"I didn't play the race card".. Bill Clinton.
Yea right, where have I heard something like that before?
"I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Monica Lewinsky".. Bil Clinton.
Anyone see a pattern?

Scott, Ann Arbor, MI   March 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

I see, so Rangel is the ultimate judge as to when a race card is played? How self-serving is that comment? Do either Bill or Hillary get how they come across? If it weren't for the fact that W is the worst president ever (and I'm Republican!) I think America would be totally disgusted with both Clintons by now and it would be Obama v McCain, with the Dems winning handily. As it is, I think McCain has a great chance.

Clinton News Network   March 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

The man does not know the meaning of the world honest.

Don't waste your space CNN, even if you are a Clinton supporter.

Obama 08

m   March 17th, 2008 10:13 am ET

nobody believes the Clintons - liars and selfish people

Bob, Florida - RFO   March 17th, 2008 10:13 am ET

Get on with the issues!

Go Obama '08

Woz - Los Gatos, CA   March 17th, 2008 10:14 am ET

The one card Bubba plays over and over is the "Joker" card.

What an irrelevant fool.

Jose'   March 17th, 2008 10:15 am ET

It's the democrat way. Incite racism, then vow to bring 'everyone' together. The only odd part is, they are doing it to each other instead of the Republicans.

Mireille, Charlotte   March 17th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Yes Bill you did. Felt it in my gut.

Mook   March 17th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Bill's comments were twisted to get political advantage to Sen. Obama by AA black leaders. AA needed reasons to support black candidate without seen as racist and this is an excuse.

Rosie   March 17th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Bill, you did it, do not try to clean yourself after the Wright´s episode. You did it because you belong to a generation that confuses racialist comments with racism. In other words, you think of yourself as being honest, but without facing the fact that you benefit from your race status better than people of color. But not anymore.

Not true   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

He torn apart the Democratic party by lying to the American public nine years ago. He looked at all of us and lied!!! His lies lead to Bush! Gore could not campaign the way he should have been able to - with pride - because of Bill's lies.

Now he is lying again !?!? Hillary and Bill will do anything for their to get power. Don't be fooled!

Obama 2008!!

Mensah Koduah, Bronx, New York   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

It was the Obama camp that started playing the race card when Jesse Jackson Jr. said after the New Hampshire primary that Hillary Clinton did not shed tears after Katrina. Back then, MSM were all in Obama;s camp and would not say anything bad about him and they got away with it and instead attack the Clintons of playing the race card. Let Jesse Jackson Jr. show me a video of Obama tearing up after Katrina before he accuses the Clintons.

Jason   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Go Bill Go! The best Prez we've had since FDR - you Obamabots need to wake up. Your candidate is toast! A pastor who condemns the USA and a candidate who can't and won't say the pledge. Come on we are better than this. If Hillary doesn't finish him off then McCain surely will.

Just Say No To Clinton   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

His comments in South Carolina were not spun. People simply listened to what he said, and were shocked that the "first black president" LOL, tried to minimilize Barack Obama.

He is now onboard the PC train, but it's too little, too late. We've seen your true colors Bill, and we suggest you stop trying to serve us the Kool-Ade.

Obama 08

jessica   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Under Bush, 4000 American service men and women have been killed in Iraq, with no end in site.

McCain is committed to continuing the status quo until the earlier of 100 years or the complete devastation of our national defense capabilities.

Hillary Clinton is committed to tinkering with the status quo when politically expedient.

Only Barack Obama is committed to placing defense policy under the guidance of intelligence and common sense instead of bravado and grandstanding.

eddie   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Why do article listings for Clinton initially show as greyed out(like I already selected it)!?!

Obama articles don't do this?!?

Stacy from Boston   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

That quote is playing the race card. Give me a break your saying that they're voting for him because he has a serious chance of being elected not because they agree with him and think he's the better candidate. Once again you are bioling it down to race.

dajack   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

I dunno if there was ever a point where I could have said I "liked" both candidates, but one thing is for sure: I'm getting pretty sick of them now.

Angus   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Who said we have had seven years of lies in the White House? More like 15! Don't put his wife in, the streak needs to end!

Come On Bill!   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

They played EVERY card … race, Muslim, gender, age … in fact they played form 2 decks including the joker (Clinton!) I like you, Bill, but if I am not voting for YOU then I don't buy a word you say.

Sam   March 17th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Bill is actually making sense to me here!

Rick   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

OBAMA is not electable. Period. Even if Hillary looses and supports Obama, my vote is going to Nadar.

Perrell, Lincolnton, NC   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

If you compare Obama to Jackson I don't know what else you can call, but oh wait didn't Clinton lie himself out of impeachment or at least tried too.. If he lied about that he will lie about this. Come CNN report something better than this

18-30 White Male   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Makes perfect sense Joe, he's no longer electable because of what his pastor said. Wait a minute that just sounds stupid.

OBAMA '08, '12

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

It is a tough political fight. I can't say that I totally believe the idea that the race card wasn't played by the Clinton campaign. Although, I believe that it was bound to come up. I am waiting for some crazy person (men and women are crazy; neither is more crazy than the other) to do something really stupid and regretable. I just hope that I am wrong about this.

Ron   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Voted against "he" and his wife? Who proofed this article? Try against "him"………

Mikey, Scottsdale AZ   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

To Mr LeftNut..apparently your left nut doesn't know what your right nut is doing …
Obama stated he would support Hillary.

Pay attention..we're giving a quiz after this …..

Hillary, in her co-presidential way ..endorsed McCain over Obama..

Get your nuts together

Nathan   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Ah. If someone from the Ways and Means Committee says you didn't play the race card, clearly you did not. And I'm sorry Bill, but which race card was played against you?

Hillary Never   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

P.S. I'm not voting for Barack's pastor. I am voting against Hillary Clinton and her dishonest tactics.

Obama 08

Matt, Manchester, CT   March 17th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Pardon me, Mr. President, if I don't believe a word you've said.

macblaze   March 17th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Thanks Bill for what u are doing and have done for Black Americans.
It is ironic I have not seen Barack do anything for civil rights or people in New Orleans. Although CNN likes to dodge the major facts about Barack and redirects it on you; you are still respected by the Black Community..

Go Hilliary!!!

vivian   March 17th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Bill is a liar, he did play the race card and said some of the stupidest things imaginable.

Richard   March 17th, 2008 10:19 am ET

Did he just say "mugging" referring to senator Obama?? I guarantee that was not an accident. Yet another code word for uneducated whites. keep it coming Billy!! What a racist!

CB   March 17th, 2008 10:20 am ET

Bill tell me what happened to John Glasgow, the guy that built your library? Things look kinda suspicous, sort of like Vince Foster's depression and later suicide. Sorry nobody's believing your excuse for using the race card to help Hillary. I guess its true what they say about trying to keep a good man down, You can't! OBAMA is the People's Choice!

Unelectable   March 17th, 2008 10:20 am ET

Obama is UNELECTABLE, NOT fit to be President. All African-Americans can vote for him in GE if he's the nominee he would still LOSE against McCain with a HUGE MARGIN.

Matt, Manchester, CT   March 17th, 2008 10:20 am ET

And Jessica, you sound a bit confused over McCain's comments of the 100 year presence in Iraq. How many years have we been in Germany since the close of WW2? How many years have we had a base in Cuba at Guantanamo Bay? How many years have we had bases in Japan? The kind of hysterics you spew do not help your cause lady.

Sandy   March 17th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Why seek out Bill Clinton and bring this all up again? This will not overshadow the fact of what has happened to the Obama campaign this past week. The media and Obama can't simply sweep this one under the rug by trying to refocus the America people to Bill Clinton and what happened in SC.

wycliffe   March 17th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Reminds me of the infamous qoute, "I did not have sexual relationsship with that woman"….remember Monica.

Alex   March 17th, 2008 10:22 am ET

"…were voting against he and his wife…" Can't you hire anyone who knows basic grammar?

Bill We Hardly Knew Ya   March 17th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Yes, he benifited from the black vote, then interjected racial comments in South Carolina. He had an affair with Monica, and ruined Al Gore's chances to become president.

This man is a piece of work. He fails to realize with that one statement, he has ruined his legacy. I love it when the truth comes out.

Bill Clinton is not smarter than God.

Obama 08

Appiah-Marfo   March 17th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Hi Bill
Stop commenting on this issue. It was a mistake. I think the best solution is find a way forward and not to do anything to disintegrate the "Democratic party" after the nominee has been picked…..Obama…all the way.

Hill Supporter from Minnesota   March 17th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Actually, it was Ms. Edwards who first broached the race card and gender card; it was in an interview and no one jumped on her for it nor has anyone raised it. I like Ms. Edwards, so I do not raise this as a criticism of her.

Mike D   March 17th, 2008 10:23 am ET

"mugging?" oh yeah the black guy was really mugging you bill.

Philadelphia   March 17th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Bill is in denial, he just doesn't get it, so he quote Charlie Rangel to validate his position and inaccurate points of view.

Jen   March 17th, 2008 10:24 am ET

HE DID NOT PLAY ANY RACE CARD.

GO HILLARY

HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT

k   March 17th, 2008 10:24 am ET

noobama 08.

Daniel   March 17th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Whoever wrote this article doesn't know English grammar: "against HE and his wife"…against HIM and his wife is the correct way. Pretty basic stuff!

gina   March 17th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Hillary has already said she will support Barack if he is the nominee. The person you should be questioning on their Democratic loyalty is actually the First Lady-wannabe, Mrs. Obama. She has repeatedly stated she will not commit to supporting Hillary.

Jay MN   March 17th, 2008 10:25 am ET

That Hillary somehow thinks that the January results in Florida and Michigan are fair enough to count simply defies logic.

If they count, then even though I want to support Obama, I'm voting McCain, since he'll be the only candidate who was legally nominated.

simple thought ?   March 17th, 2008 10:25 am ET

bill, i thought you were grounded, go back to the couch.
hillery is doing fine without you.

missouri

jay lyon   March 17th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Slick Willy is one of the best liars extant. "I did NOT have sex with that woman", with a totally straight face. You and I both know what he is. Admit it!

Peter   March 17th, 2008 10:26 am ET

No, you didn't Bill, but Obama's blind followers are still reeling from the Reverend Wright scandal and the flaws it revealed in their flawless candidate so they have to have you to attack.

Fact Check   March 17th, 2008 10:26 am ET

what a joke. charlie rangel is a Clinton supporter; what do you expect him to say?

RENEA,PLYMOUTH,MI   March 17th, 2008 10:26 am ET

I THINK ME HEARD THIS ONE BEFORE.I DID NOT HAVE SEX WITH THAT WOMAN!

Fred   March 17th, 2008 10:27 am ET

I do not beleave antthing that comes out of a Clinton mouth. Time for change and you wont get it with Clintons.

MIKE   March 17th, 2008 10:27 am ET

You did, This is the biggest fiery tale i have ever seen.

MoveOn   March 17th, 2008 10:27 am ET

Right. …And, he didn't have sex with that woman, either. Now I wonder where Eliot got the phone number for the Emperor's Club. Who could be included in Clients 1 - 8???

Max Stone   March 17th, 2008 10:28 am ET

Bill rarely mentions Hillary's Name!

I'm not a Clinton supporter but I though Bill handled himself well in this interview. He steered a conciliatory political line this kind of interview can only help their campaign. However, I noticed he really mentioned Hillary's name reverting rather to 'her' or 'she'. What's that about?

Max (UK)

Don't Vote For Billary   March 17th, 2008 10:28 am ET

God has a sense of humor. The first "black" president is a bigot. He will regret the statement he made in South Carolina. He should face the truth and admit it–which the Clintons never do.

SHAMEFUL   March 17th, 2008 10:28 am ET

He didn't -the media and Congressman Clyburn did. Nothing about fairytale was racist, saying Jesse Jackson won SC wasn't racist - I am black and I know when people are being racist and HE WAS NOT.
TheLeftNUt, I agree with you - these extremist will cause John McCain to win.

Joe   March 17th, 2008 10:28 am ET

If he isn't trying to highlight Obama's race, why can't he stop talking about it?

Hey Bill! What you're doing right now? That's what "playing the race card" means!

nittany   March 17th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Bill, keep talkin' cause it only helps Barack win.

ObamaMama   March 17th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Bill Clinton also didn't have sex with than woman, Ms. Lewinski.

joe   March 17th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Hello, my name is joe and clearly I don't have an education and am a smear monger who is campaigning for Hillary Clinton. I'm an idiot!!!

The Face Of Dishonesty   March 17th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Vote for Barack and take the first step to a better America and an honest White House.

Obama 08

Chris, Orlando   March 17th, 2008 10:29 am ET

I know Bill:

"I never had sexual relations with that woman."
"Ï never asked anyone to lie."
"We didn't play the race card."

Anyone who believes the Clintons on anything is a total LOSER.

Spirit of America   March 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

In this political game of race cards the joker must be wild, and dishing out race cards from the pulpit to a presidential candidate sitting in his pews for some 20 years. This is change we can do without.

Marilyn   March 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

Neither Hillary nor Barrack can win in November! The Democrats have once again committed political suicide by nominating an unelectable candidate. John McCain will be the next president.

Paulette, Cincinnati, Ohio   March 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

Of cource you were not Bill and you and Hillary hold your heads up high. By the way I don't have that "uncle" in my family Obama talks about. Does that mean something is wrong with my uncles? Shame on you Obama and since "words matter" I have one for you Obama…….HYPOCRITICAL

Barb Reynolds, US Citizen - Ontario Canada   March 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

I noticed he used the word "mugging" as a descriptive of what the Obama campaign did to him. Not playing the race card? I'm sure that someone of his intellect could have used a less provocative word. Another Freudian slip or something else?

Cindy   March 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

Why is it such a big deal. Grow up and give me a break. I just don't believe it. On his term he was very good to the Black and t the Country, just stop Blaming the Clinton for everything.

Danielle   March 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Enough. As a white voter from a majority white state won by Sen. Obama, I am ashamed of everyone in the campaigns and in the media, who have been making race an issue. I voted for Sen. Obama because he is able to articulate both policies AND an overarching vision for my country. I believe he would promote policies that would benefit most of us, while not leaving everyone else in the dust. When I voted, I did so not as a White American or a Latte-Sipping American or a Post-Racial American. I voted as a plain old, 9-5 working, American who loves my country.

Chip from Ohio   March 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

He's a chump! If you believe him, you are too.

JJ in NY   March 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Oh right, bubba….. and you didn't inhale, and you didn't have sexual relations with "that woman", Ms. Lewinski . And I suppose the dog ate your homework too ?

Colie Brice, Asbury Park, NJ   March 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Mr. President your compelling legacy and most unfortunately - your credibility is overshadowed by your infinite and grandiose capacity for deceit.

Lee Harrison, Brentwood TN   March 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

"I Didn't", by Bill Clinton. Sounds like a good title for his biography. I smoked, but didn't inhale. I didn't have sex with that woman…. Now, I didn't play the race card. Um, a repeating theme!

2008Hillary!   March 17th, 2008 10:32 am ET

I have to say all those Obama's supporters are so blind!!!!!!!!!

God Bless America………However, you guys like someone curse your country right?

2008 Hillary

H   March 17th, 2008 10:32 am ET

You Obama supporters are so full of hate. OPEN your eyes. This is what the media wanted to happen. Make it a real election. Stop this nonsense."GROW UP" - GET RID OF THE MEDIA.

Check Your Facts   March 17th, 2008 10:33 am ET

That depends on the meaning of play.
Obama 08

Xavier, Washington, DC   March 17th, 2008 10:33 am ET

Right, Bill. You didn't play the race card, just like you "did not have sex with that woman, Ms. Lewinski." Face it, the jig is up. Hillary is not going to be president and you will not be able to use her administration to rewrite your legacy. William Jefferson Clinton, impeached for perjury.

Liam   March 17th, 2008 10:33 am ET

Bimbo Bill is now calling his wife, Hillary Rodham Clinton, a liar, or was she actually lying to those African American groups when she apologized to them!. Hillary apologizes for what Bill did, and now Bill says that he never did what Hillary apologized for. America, do you really want those two snakes back in the White House?

Sam   March 17th, 2008 10:33 am ET

I'm for Obama, and I'm black, and I don't believe for a second that Bill Clinton is racist. Whether he played the race card to get a political advantage, I don't know, but I doubt it. He's a good guy, his wife sucks though.

Ron, TX   March 17th, 2008 10:33 am ET

"mugging"!?

Speaking of the race card, it's generally not a good idea to generically refer to a black man as a mugger.

That is 100% use of the race card. Bold and in your face, no doubt about it.

Black Woman   March 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

True True
I love the Clintons but Obama is black. If Hillary wins I will fully support her and will be as happy as if Obama won.

La Petite Sorciere   March 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

NO More Clintons that include Billy!!!! can someone tell him that?

Victoria   March 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Unbelievable. Does he think that we are all stupid? Retirement is screaming his name. He needs to take his wife with him for company.

Engawyer, Kansas City, Missouri   March 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

He did not and would never play the race card. He was not called the first black president for nothing. The media has viciously tried to tag Bill as the reason for Hillary's demise.

jerrywayne   March 17th, 2008 10:35 am ET

I agree with President Clintons comments–he was "spun" by Obama campaign.

bennett   March 17th, 2008 10:35 am ET

This guy is most not believable person in American politics. Who even cares what he says anymore. If you lie in the public sphere, don't expect the integrity will come rushing back at some point.

Thomas Koshy   March 17th, 2008 10:35 am ET

Bill Clinton is the best president we had in a long time.The race factor is coming out of Sen.Obama camp.Hillary is the only choice we have

carolfowery   March 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

You can't use Iraq in my book, period. We dont know what that will be and it's just promises, you can look at polls yourself and run on that basis. I dont know of any war being popular. WE ARE there, and we should let our military tell us what we need to do, not a candidate.
Bill Clinton has never been one of my fav presidents, but he spoke the truth on this matter. What he said in South Carolina was the truth. When we have to sit back and watch "GD America" spewing out of the mouth of a minister, it's time to look seriously at real issues. Maybe that minister should ask himself "what would Jesus do??
For many moons I have wished on all applications and school records that the race section be removed, period. Iim sick of Latino-American, African-American, White, Other, now that other is the big joke, maybe we are all "Other" huh….
Our big question really is
"Who is smart enough and has the ability to bring our congress together on all issues, not just one?" now that my friends is what
we need! Who is it? You tell me

Tim   March 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

"I didn't say anything racist…Charlie Rangel said so."

What a slimeball.

Barb   March 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

i was raised that all people are equal! i raised my children that all
people are equal! we are all human beings! but it sinkens me that
obama would raise his children in a church that teaches othe wise
and hatred of our country!
why does cnn beat up on any remarks made by others OVER AND
OVER and yet barely mentioning obama today?
THIS WON'T JUST GO AWAY!!!

Jeff   March 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

I don't care what cards they say Bill played. Hillary is the more qualified and more electable candidate period. Obama is not even fit for vice president and he'll be lucky to retain his senate seat after this is all through; the guy's all smoke and mirrors and I wish people would wake up.

S Callahan New York   March 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

God help this country who has allowed a few to distort their perception about what is good and right for our leadership in this country. I pray we vote for a leader who is a true supporter of our constitution; is not a taker of money from lobbyist who steer our tax dollars for causes we don't believe in; and for a person in the faith and belief that God is the ultimate ruler of all things and the giver of grace to get us through everything.

Brian   March 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

One Clinton-supporting Representative says you didn't place the race card and that's the fact? Hmm, I'll trust the impressions of millions of Americans over the agenda of one politician, thanks.

Sonny James   March 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

How can abyone believe Bill Clinton?

He looked dead in our eyes, pointed his finger, and without blinking his eyes, sternly said…

" I did not have sex with that woman!"

Tone   March 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Obama's pastor has less to do with this issue than John McCain's bigoted pastor has to do with it.

They played the race card to appeal to the Archie Bunker types and unfortunately its working.

Rich   March 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Obama this, Clinton that, McCain this.. blah blah blah… While all of you are on hear moaning about your candidate and how they are treated, why they are better, whatever your argument is the country is falling further into a hole it will not be able to get out of no matter who is in office. It is time everyone realize the problem is not the President, the problem is not Republican or Democrat, the problem is all of you can't think for yourself. You believe what you read, you listen to what you hear and most of you have no clue!

Change yourself and the country will follow… or you can sit around all day and figure out how you are going to spend a handout from the government that is only going to cost us more in the long run!

Grow Up America!

CNN, I am hoping you will actually post this…

steve dodson   March 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Bill Clinton couldn't tell the truth if you put a gun to his head and cocked it. If I hear one more time how it's the Obama campaign playing the race card and not the Clinton's, I'm leaving the Democratic Party.

RealityKing   March 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Hillary is right, McCain IS more qualified to be president. No matter how Bill defines the word..

Political Jonze   March 17th, 2008 10:38 am ET

Once again trying to play the "poor me" victim. You can't trust a Clinton. Release your tax filings, Clinton Library donor list, White House Papers (and first lady schedule!) and let America judge Hillary on what she did and not who she says she is. The fact that the Clinton's are fighting so hard to keep all of these documents under lock and key is all the proof one needs that there is dirty dealings they want to cover up.

Appiah-Marfo   March 17th, 2008 10:38 am ET

Obama yes might know Rev. Wright for 20 years, but does that mean that he went to church every Sunday? or anything the church doors open for the whole 20 years?. Obama, is a mere congregation member. Stop the hullabalu and discuss pressing issues…economy, health care, and so on. "Race-politics" of the 60s- 90s will not workl this time….Obama …all the way.

Katy Hill Prescott Az.   March 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

The Clintons and their lies, scheming and ugliness are turning voters off. They are not black, they are not poor, they are not honest, they are destroying any hope for change and alienating voters. I agree with Rev. Wright completely when it comes to them.

Keeping It Real   March 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

When are we ever going to rise above this? Also, the name calling in not necessary.
Cy— what qualifies you to call someone an idoit. REALLY!

Race issue should not be apart of this camp… point blank….

Everyone should be honest and realize that this country has a long way to go in terms of race especially if a person's comment can get all you bloggers upset!!! This goes for blacks, whites & latinos. Lets be for real. Vote on issues and person mostly like to change the current situation.

Regardless of the negative press, I am still voting for Obama as I know no one can speak for me but me and I know no one can speak for Obama but Obama.

GC   March 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

Since when is staunch Clinton supporter Charlie Rangel the absolute authority on use of the so called race card?

Kimberly Beasley   March 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

It depends on what your defintion of the word "play" is, Bill, right?

Charlie San Diego   March 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

Master Bill,

You are showing you true color by talking like an old "Plantation Owner" to kept black americans under your control. They are smarter than you think. Wake up and smell the coffee eventhough you may not like the color of it!.

Charlie San Diego
San Marcos, CA

Alex from IL   March 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

*SIGH* Yes, Bill, you DID play the race card. Both you and Hillary made some statements that made bloggers and black radio people say "huh?". In response to questions about those statements, you attacked Obama, rather than attacking the people who ACTUALLY raised questions with what you said. The voters quickly picked up on this, and voted overwhelmingly against you. I mean your wife, sorry.

David   March 17th, 2008 10:40 am ET

This is the same man who swore to the American public, "I did not have sexual relations with that woman!" We all heard what he said and he can deny it all he wants but it was pretty clear.

Cee   March 17th, 2008 10:40 am ET

Agreed, Angus. Are people so quick to forget the calls for impeachment during Clinton's scandals in 1997-99? Or the most recent suppression of archival materials pertaining to the pardons that Clinton granted or activities that occurred during Clinton's time in office?

We need to end this inability to be honest with the American people, whether it is by Bush or by the Clintons. I will vote for either Obama or McCain dependent upon whoever is best able to prove that they will be as honest and as straightforward as possible in the White House, acting as a leader based on the will of the American people and not some personal agenda or desire to be re-elected.

JayJay   March 17th, 2008 10:40 am ET

STOP!

PhillyNola, New Orleans, LA   March 17th, 2008 10:40 am ET

Firstly, when did Charlie Rangel become the voice or expert of the black community? Bill and Hillary Clinton always want to surround themselves with a "firewall" of old-school and somewhat irrelevant African American leaders so that they can shield themselves from being called racists. They also play the card - look at what we did for blacks all our lives… does that mean black people indebted to them for life, or mean that the Clintons are immune from scrutiny? Frankly, Obama was running a campaign that transcended race and the Clintons literally inserted race into the race. No one ever called white people racist for voting in large margins for white candidates. Yet if African Americans do it, it's wrong. Oh the double standards…

Edgar   March 17th, 2008 10:41 am ET

Funny how over the weekend there was little blogging going on when the news was about Obama minister. But now that Bill is on the news we 120 comments and counting.

Double standard by side!

OMG   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

Now some of you are claiming that the use of the word "mugging" was racist??? Could you be any more ignorant and divisive? What are you revealing about yourself by thinking that the word "mugging" has some specific relationship to an African American? Trust me, it has more to do with you than it dies with Bill Clinton, or reality. So, keep playing the race card Obama supporters, cuz it's all played out.

Vote Obama   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

WHY SHOULD OBAMA LEAVE OR BACK DOWN FROM CONTRAVERSIAL FIGURES OR ARGUMENTS IN HIS CHURCH OR ELSEWHERE???

You cannot change things if you run away from contraversy!!!!! He stayed in his church even when he disagreed with some of the statements being made because he wanted to make a difference and to chnage that kind of thinking— ONE CANNOT CHANGE THAT KIND OF THINKING IF ONE RUNS AWAY!!!! ONE MUST STAY AND FIGHT!!!

OBAMA IS A NEW GENERATION… HE DIDN'T GROW UP DURING THE SAME TIME IN HISTORY THAT THE PASTOR DID!!!

LASTLY, SOME OF THE VIEWS VOICED BY PASTOR WRIGHT ARE SHARED AMONG WHITES!!!!

PEOPLE SHOULD READ UP ON THEIR HISTORY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lynn in NM   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

Whatever! Does Bill even know the meaning of "playing the race card"? After all, he didn't know what the definition of "is" is.

Joe   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

I think Obama is the one that continues to play the race card when anyone criticizes his lack of experience and his non-substantive "change" rhetoric.Geraldine Ferraro was correct when she stated that he would not be where he is if it weren't for his circumstances. If he were a white junior senator with virtually no experience, he would not even be in the running for the Presidency. I don't even know how this guy takes himself seriously..

orlando   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

Bill didn’t play a race card and media and Obama did in order to beat Hillary. I have listened what Bill said many times and don’t draw such a conclusion. The media helped Bush push this country into the war and now they help Obama get elected.
People in this country want neither Buch and his right wing nor Obama and his left wing.

JP, Illinois   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

All candidates and camps need to focus on keeping this on the up-and-up, and supporting the Democratic causes first. Hillary has taken this primary into negativity, and it is only hurting us all.

Let's focus on the positives. Obama in 08. May the best individual win.

Nick   March 17th, 2008 10:42 am ET

I can agree with Clinton. But I do think he should not have even compared the two to begin with. And for the record, I don't like the comparison of Obama to Kennedy.

Ken B.   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Obama is getting 92% of the black vote and Bill Clinton played the race card? Yeah, right.

Rose - Baltimore, MD   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

I am still voting for Obama and I don't have a problem with past Wright's messages (I'm not African-American). His message gave me alot to think about, especially people being injected with the Aids virus. I don't know how true that is but I have heard of it before. That, "The Aids virus was originally created to eliminate the black population in American". I wonder why the guys who do factcheck have not checked out this one. Of course they will not because believe it or not everyone is afraid of a black man being president, a large portion of them being the media that is why they insist on pastor wright's surmons to destroy Obama. You know what, you will not succeed.

Paulinus   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Bill can no longer fool Americans. He and his wife did nothing to help bridge the gap between Blacks and Latinos when they were in the white house. They were only after the votes. America needs someone to unite the country. How can a man who lied under oath be trusted in the White House in the capacity as First Man? God Bless America?

TA   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Right, and Geraldine Ferraro didn't play the race card. The pictures of Berak in African garb wasn't the race card. The "semi-confirmation" of his Christianity on 60 minutes wasn't the race card.
How stupid do the Clinton's think we are?

Mike, Toronto   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

He reenforces the perception that he would say anything in order to achieve his personal goals.

Jack Walden   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Seems Bill after leaving Presidency is suffering from an acute bout of "foot in the mouth disease". If he keeps going at this rate, his legacy will
soon end up with that of George Bush.

shirley   March 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Hillary started her campaign by playing the gender card, "We'll make history by electing the first woman President'. When that didn't bring in enought votes, Hillary played the race card. Still not enough votes so she brought religion into the race. Shame on the news media for running Wright out of his church and putting Obama in the position of defending his Pastor. Do you have time now to insist Hillary release her tax returns? We all know there is something there she doesn't want voter's to see or it would not be an issue for her. You had time and resources to report on Obama and Rezno, how about Clinton vs. Paul? We have a candidate who is a defendant in a Federal case and this is not news worthy? Shame on all of you.

al gore   March 17th, 2008 10:44 am ET

Journalists and clinton supporters,

The clintons and their supporters have introduced a 21st century southern strategy into the campaign….I hope all of you are so proud of your canidate and your level of journalistic integrity….great job!!!!

linus   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

He did it again!

Quote: "Once African-Americans understood that they had a candidate…”

Translation: African-Americans have a candidate. That candidate is Obama. So Obama is the African-American candidate.

Amazing…

Walter S Hrynkiw   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

It occurs to me that Senator Obama has had a free ride. There is nothing specific in President Clinton's remarks to call racist. Look at the remarks of Obama's pastor and tell me that these are not specifically racist remarks. It is incredible for someone to say that he is close friends with someone and does not know his views on a topic as important as race after tewnty years. To say you did not know of these sermons is equally incredible.

Victoria   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

Obama has been the only one playing the race card, when it is convenient. If you want to talk about about race and unity, lets keep talking about Obama's spiritual advisor, that is a message that has just lost Obama the nomination. Enough with all you Obama fanatics

SW-GA   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

I do think the Clinton campaign tried to raise the race issue in the campaign in order to make people think twice about voting for a black man. Problem is, people of all races became very disgusted by their actions.
About the drama with Hillary’s campaign advisor and Obama’s pastor…..When you are running for any kind of high position as both Obama and Clinton are, there are going to be supporters as well as people in your campaign that say and do stupid things. We need to continue looking at the issues and stop focusing on the drama.

Concerned Voter   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

The Clintons are a lot of things, but playing the race card ? No way. This is Obama marketing. What else does he have. Certainly not a record.

The Clintons have done more for the African American community than Obama ever will.

ILoveAmerica   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

Well, did Charles Rangel ever agree with Bill Clinton that Obama's opposition to the war in Iraq was a "fairy tale?" I don't think so.

Yinka Lawal   March 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

Why all this race card that CNN and other News are showing to the public. its not fair and CNN is ready to destroy this man reputation. why is press trying to seperate this country. please let this people face the problem that americans are facing. Stop this race card that Hillary and Obama did not mention out of there mouth. Hillary is smart and Obama is smart also, and please let the americans make there decision. Why Joe in MSNBC hate Obama. Every net work look like they want republican to win.

david   March 17th, 2008 10:46 am ET

Who is promoting hate in this race? Definitely Obama's compaign. People, neurtral or not, are intimated by Obama's supporters on Internet. This is just another movement based on hate.

Di   March 17th, 2008 10:46 am ET

When Obama's wife Michele said "This is the first time I've been proud of America" she sounds EXACTLY like Rev. Wright!!!!!! How disgusting and sad. If Obama was falling asleep during Wright's sermons, Michele definitely was VERY alert and agrees with him.

Deb   March 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

As we all know now….

Obama is the extreme Hateful Racists Liar!

Obama should bow out now, while his

GREAT BIG APOLOGY TO THE AMERICAN POEPLE WILL MEAN SOMETHING!

If he stays in the Race we will only be caught up in incredible negativity that won't accomplish a thing.

Obama is no longer a viable candidate!

MikeinOhio   March 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

Until Bill Clinton comes forth and truthfully discloses where all of the money has come from, I will see him and his wife as two all-american liars capable of fooling the democratic electorate again.
Politicians have ruined this country and we do not need the same old, same old. None of the three remaining possibilities inspire any amount of hope in me. Picking the least of the evils offered, I will vote for Obama or McCain in November.

Laura   March 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

Where is Obama's tax return for the year he bought his house? I want to see a list of which charities he donated the Rezko money to.

Mcpoke   March 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

I think it is a rather sad state right now for Mr. Obama and his campaign. Here is a qualified individual gathering support to be the nominee of the Democratic party, having a great deal of success, and now needs to defend himself because of his race. It is unfortunate that his pastor said what was said regarding Hillary, but I find it interesting the video came out as quickly as it did to snuff out the abuse Mr. Obama received from Ferraro and the Clinton campaign. Someone had this video already to release - you just don't go to sermons and video them. It is hard to say with whom do you blame for the video getting on You Tube, but it seems suspicious to me, almost "dug up" by the Clinton campaign to force the attention off of their Ferraro mess and put Mr. Obama in a state of defense.
I am sure Mr. Obama will rise above these tactics and it will just make him more battle-ready for the mud-slinging the McCain camp will ensue.

Desiree   March 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

Bill Clinton was not trying to play the race card, the media spun everything around to make it look like he was. The media loves this stuff and hasn't dropped it yet because it get a lot of ratings. If the democrats don't start to work together and talk about the issues that are facing the American people then the republicans will keep the Whit House.

Not an Obama supporter!!   March 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

President Clinton did not play card. Obama has played and continues to play the race card. He makes such an issue of what Pres. Clinton said but downplays the ignorant and hateful comments his beloved pastor of 20 years has said. It is getting to the point where, if you criticize Barack Obama's campaign, you are a racist! This is not we what we need right now. He has turned this campaign into something so ugly. His constance game (playing the race card) is going to cost the Democratic party the election in November. Obama 08 (whatever!!!)

Meesha6   March 17th, 2008 10:48 am ET

It is quite clear that the democratic nominee will be decided by the media. I for one could care less about this he said this and she said that kind of politics. The truth of the matter is that everyone has said things in this campaign that have been offensive to someone. I personally find both Ferraro's comments and Rev. Wright's comments offensive. However, what matters to me is what Sen. Clinton and Barack Obama say, and for that matter what they have done not only in the senate but in their community. You can't throw the baby out with the bathwater. If the public would stop stiring the pot about all of these race relations we can truly get down to who will be the best Democratic Candidate. Isn't that what the election process is all about?

Tafoya A. Hubbard   March 17th, 2008 10:49 am ET

@Rick and I will go to Nadar if Hillary is the nominee so now we are even I see. McCain is more than likely going to be the next President regardless of who wins. Why is it that Barack is un electable? He is just as qualified as Hillary.

Mark   March 17th, 2008 10:49 am ET

Like I'm supposed to take Charlie Rangel's word for this? He has been in the Clinton camp lock, stock, and barrel all along. I might give more credability to a completely neutral source, but not from a Clinton "yes man" like Charlie Rangel.

gurarro   March 17th, 2008 10:49 am ET

When is CNN going to announce in BIG BOLD LETTERS that Barack picked-up more delegates in IOWA and HRC lost some. I read that on other sites on Saturday but have seen absolutely nothing on CNN. That is more news worthy than listening to Bill Clinton lie.

Matt   March 17th, 2008 10:49 am ET

Dear maynard,

If you're implying what I think you're implying with your "Second Amendment might be used yet" commen, then you can expect a knock on your door by the secret service.

Lew   March 17th, 2008 10:50 am ET

Neither Brotha Bill nor Sista Hillay seem to understand that most Black folks find it rather irrelevant what Charlie Rangel or any of the other so-called "Black leaders" they trot out think about whatt he said. The fact is we can make these kinds of judgments for ourselves. And most of us are of the opinion his statements were racist.

Rick in Florida   March 17th, 2008 10:50 am ET

jerrywayne, engawyer and all the others of you who blindly buy into the Clinton spin-machine are just like the Koolaid drinkers of Guyana. You never question, just accept what they say. Absolutely amazing!!

Ron, Las Vegas   March 17th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Bill is right, he did not play the race card, he just played demean the other candidate card. The Clintons are playing the same old politics. Blame everyone else for attacking them and ganging up against them, say your winning when your losing, and tear down your opponent with half truths and innuendo. The Clintons have a history of only telling part of the truth and those things which make them look good. Everything else they try to sweep under the rug. Just more of the same old politics.

mary   March 17th, 2008 10:52 am ET

What kind of a president would Hillary make if she has the opinion that only the big states count? Mary from Fitchburg

Nando, Florida   March 17th, 2008 10:52 am ET

CHARLIE RANGEL is FROM PR !!!! That wasn't a good example BILL

Lora B.   March 17th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Since Obama has a habit of voting "present" on bills or going on vacation to Hawaii, he can speak out all he wants about the Iraq war but we will never really know for sure how he would have voted on Iraq if given the chance. Therefore, Clinton was right to call Obama's record on Iraq a "fairy tale".

Why is the media bringing this up again? It's old news - perhaps it is an attempt by the media to deflect attention away from the racially motivated comments made by Obama's minister….

Michael "C" in Lorton, Virginia   March 17th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Both Hillary and Bill can be characterizes as "knowing the price of everything, but the value of nothing."

Anyone but Hillary!   March 17th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Let's not forget that Bll Clinton also misrepresented the truth under oath in the Monica Lewinsky case. Are we supposed to believe anthing he says. And under his watch we never found out what realy happened to Ron Brown and VInce Foster (Hillary's confidant and long time friend). Are the Clintons scared to stand up for the truth or are they whimps. We need a brave leader in the white house. Help us out CNN.

Kimberly Beasley   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Come on superdelagates, make this stop, please. Let's go Edwards, Richardson, Pelosi, Gore. Either tell Billary to quit causing problems, and if they don't cast your votes, please. Hillary has lost supers since Super Tuesday, Barack has gained 40.

Dan , TX   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

I think Obama's pastor will be pleased if he torpedoed Obama's chances to be president. To him, it just proves his point that whites reject blacks. If Obama did win the election, Wright's entire view of the world would be destroyed. Obama is a grave threat to Rev. Wright, he must be destroyed.

cc, Chicago   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Sorry Bill, but it's simply true. You played the race card. I simply cannot find any rational way to interpret your comments, unless they were taken wildly out of context by the media. And frankly, if that were the case, you'd be making that case.

Wayne   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Bill and Hillary used the race card only because it benefits them to do so. Obama's loud mouth pastor has put him in the hot seat which is odd. People are acting as if Obama has said those things. This thing wont be a story a week from now.

Sara   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Slick Willy, my foot. At his age, he's probably more like limp Willy. His photos make him look like an old coot who can't keep his zipper up because he forgets to close it.
Past his prime, in denial, and we really don't need him(or his wife) in high office any more.

mrsqohelet   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

The Clinton$ (pl) shouldn't play the race card. Why? Because it's not an issue.

I am a 35 yr old WHITE working mother of two kids who will vote for BARACK OBAMA because I've got more in common with him than with Hillary.

RACE isn't the issue for me. It's about MONEY and INTEGRITY. The Clinton$ might have some of one but they've got way too much of the other.

Rich soccer moms might carry the primary, but I hope not. Obama represents people like me more than she does, and I haven't seen anyone like me run for office in my entire life.
– The Clinton's got my first presidential vote back when I was in college, but Barack's going to get my next one.

D N DC   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

LIAR AND LIAR and LIAR….. I will vote for John McCain b4 Hilliary!!! Black people have survive slavery WE can survive another 4 years of the Replican Party. I will never VOTE 4 a Clinton again for what they have done 2 Sen. Obama a7 the Democratic Party…… LIARS!

prakash chand for HILLARY   March 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Clintons never play race card.

Obama is black ,so if any one calls him black whats wrong with it?

why he gets so angry? he aint white.

Kathy, Andover   March 17th, 2008 10:54 am ET

Is this kinda like it depends on what the definition of is is, Bill? You can be so lame.

Wow   March 17th, 2008 10:54 am ET

Having read the posts here, I just realized that Obama's supporters are complete idiots. My only hope is that if Obama is somehow able to weather the storm surrounding the racist comments of his pastor, and ends up winning the presidency, that he is a lot smarter than his supporters, because otherwise America is in for some even darker times than we are facing right now.

b. jones tulsa,ok.   March 17th, 2008 10:54 am ET

i guess you can beat a dead horse…………..

Gil - California   March 17th, 2008 10:55 am ET

If this is how Bill Clinton is saying it is, how could we doubt what it is?

Of course, it depends on what your defination of the word "is" is.

Bev   March 17th, 2008 10:55 am ET

This is just more of the same old same old reporting with a bias towards the Clintons by CNN.

Bill   March 17th, 2008 10:55 am ET

The American people have had enough lies, deceit and mind games from the Clintons. He played the race card in S.C. With the nomination for Hillary secured, he thought his charm and the naïveté of the American public would forget or forgive him for it. They should take their ill earned money and get lost. We need a fresh start and Obama brings the promise we need for the future of our country.

D   March 17th, 2008 10:55 am ET

make me want to vomit

Juan   March 17th, 2008 10:55 am ET

Bill's comment was not spun. I heard the comments and was able to make my own decision.

Eva   March 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

the Obama campaign has played the race-bait card, so they can't be blamed; but instead the Clinton campaign is blamed. Smart move, but it will come to light, sooner or later. Wake up, people, don't be fooled, look at the issues and the merits. Do you really want a rookie fpr President?

cynthia   March 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

Tell me, what did Bill mean when he talked about Jesse Jackson in South Carolina in a degrading manner? If it were not race-based, then millions do not know what the mother of all trump card sounds/looks like when the deck of srace is stacked, ready to be dealt. Nevertheless, the people of Carolina played the joker and voted for the best candidate loud and clear, Barack Obama.

MinsterP   March 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

The comment below is exactly the illogic used by Obama supporters.

So the wife's support is more relevant how? It can't be because she is the wife of Charlie since he is irrelevant.

Oh we know, it is relevant because she is supporting your candidate.

*************

March 17th, 2008 10:02 am ET

By the way, Charlie Rangel's wife if for OBAMA. Charlie Rangel is just as irrelevant as Obama's pastor.

Obama 08

Liberty   March 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

In a debate last year, John Edwards looked at the camera and said "If you're voting for me because you have a problem with a woman or a black person, then I don't want your vote."

Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama both need to make a similar statement.

Charlie Rangel's wife is supporting Obama, by the way. Rangel wants Hillary to win so he can have her Senate seat.

Diane   March 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

Bill Clinton did not play the race card and as the media likes to play favorites they are not telling what really happened. Bill Clinton was asked a question early in the morning in So. Carolina before people even went to the polls. The comment was not racist but the media and their snipets compromised the truth and have the majority of the public believing that it was a racist comment when it wasn't.

ct   March 17th, 2008 10:57 am ET

Obama should end his campaign. his manipulation and skeletons in his closet are way too big.

duck47   March 17th, 2008 10:57 am ET

A little late in coming but thanks for some fair coverage for a change. What we need to ask ourselves if why Bill Clinton was allowed to be accused unfairly to begin with.

Lone Star Wolf   March 17th, 2008 10:57 am ET