March 17, 2008
Posted: March 17th, 2008 12:05 PM ET

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Hillary Clinton said in a speech Monday as president she would exercise the leadership needed to end the war in Iraq, something her rivals for the White House would not be able to accomplish.

“Senator Obama holds up his original opposition to the war on the campaign trail, but he didn't start working aggressively to end the war until he started running for president. So when he had a chance to act on his speech, he chose silence instead,” Clinton told an audience at George Washington University. “President Bush is determined to continue his failed policy in Iraq until he leaves office. And Senator McCain will gladly accept the torch and stay the course, keeping troops in Iraq for up to 100 years if necessary.”

Obama gave a speech in 2002 opposing the war in Iraq, an address he references often in his campaign stump speech. Clinton cited Obama’s repeated promise to start bringing “combat troops out in 16 months,” pointing to recent BBC interview by now-former Obama policy advisor Samantha Power in which Power said Obama “will, of course, not rely on some plan that he’s crafted as a presidential candidate or a U.S. Senator.”

The Clinton campaign has highlighted those comments because of what they say is a contradiction between Obama's thetoric and action on Iraq.

“Senator Obama has said often that words matter. I strongly agree,” Clinton said. “But giving speeches alone won’t end the war and making campaign promises you might not keep certainly won’t end it. In the end the true test is not the speeches a president delivers, it’s whether the president delivers on the speeches.”At a campaign rally in Monaca, Pennsylvania Obama disagreed with Clinton’s assessment.

“I opposed this war in 2002, I opposed it in 2003, 4, 5, 6 and 7. I have been consistent in saying that we have to be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in. I have been clear this has been a strategic error – unlike Senator Clinton, who voted for this war and has never taken responsibility for that vote,” Obama said.Clinton also said both Bush and McCain want to keep the United States tied to Iraq’s “civil war, a war we cannot win. That, in a nutshell, is the Bush/McCain Iraq policy. Don’t learn from our mistakes, repeat them…We can have hundreds of thousands of troops on the ground for 100 years, but that will not change the fact that there is no military solution to the situation in Iraq.”

A McCain campaign spokeswoman said Clinton is trying to “score political points by mischaracterizing” Senator McCain’s statement about keeping troops in Iraq for one hundred years, and said the Arizona senator was talking about a post-war “military presence in Iraq should the Iraqi and U.S. governments determine it to be in their mutual interest.”

McCain, who is in Iraq today on a congressional trip, told CNN's John King that Clinton "obviously does not understand nor appreciate the progress that has been made on the ground. She told General Petraeus last year when he testified that she would have to suspend disbelief in order to believe that the surge is working.

Well, the surge is working."So I just think what that means is al Qaeda wins. They tell the world that. And we fight here again and around the Middle East. And their dedication is to follow us home. All I can say is that this will be a big issue in the election as we approach November because at least a growing number of Americans, though still frustrated and understandably so, believe that this strategy has succeeded," he added.

Clinton said she “applauded” the recent decrease in violence in Iraq but said the surge was intended to give the Iraqis breathing room to reach “political reconciliation,” something that has not happened in her assessment.In her speech, Clinton outlined a multi-step plan for ending the war, some of which she talks about frequently on the campaign trail.

In addition to starting troop withdrawal within 60 days of taking office, Clinton said as president she would urge the United Nations to act as a “neutral, honest broker” in reaching political agreements and also in helping to resettle millions of Iraqi refugees. She said she would work to remove armed private military contractors from Iraq and end black market sales of oil that goes to help the insurgency.

Clinton said troop withdrawal would “not mean retreating from fighting terrorism in Iraq” and that she would “order small, elite strike forces to engage in targeted operations against Al Qaeda in Iraq.”

–CNN Senior Political Producer Sasha Johnson

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • John McCain


PKS   March 17th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

An Ohio voter--HILLARY is handing the republicans the nomination.

Have you forgotten who's losing the race?

She must think all Americans are stupid!! We remember she was for the war before she was against it.

Sharon of Illinois   March 17th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

This speech is almost funny if so many young men and women hadn't died due to her original vote.

Jim   March 17th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Barack will end the war because he will listen to the military leaders, take into account all relevant intelligence, AND respect the will of the American people.

This is a big distinction between Hillary and Barack. Hillary voted for the war without reading the intelligence estimates because it was politically expedient (she represents NY remember? How could a senator from NY not vote for war?). She now says that "the vote wasn't for war," which would lead the voters to believe that she is not taking responsibility for her position.

Hillary has said, and will say anything to get elected. That is the legacy she is leaving with this race. I could have supported her before South Carolina. Because of how she ran her campaign (misleading comments, haphazard financing, infighting among staff, polarizing democrats) I have become resolute in my position.

Alonzo Demetrius, FL, USA   March 17th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

If Hillary goes to the White House, there won't be any "small, elite forces" to strike al Queda targets. Our military will become civilians as fast as possible. The woman just doesn't know what she is doing.

Alonzo Demetrius, FL, USA   March 17th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Sure, Hillary and Barack can "end the war". Any president could. But the question is how to end the war "with honor" and in the best interests of our country. Walking out of the Middle East is not the solution. We need to maintain our presence there as long as enemies of the West are mis-behaving. Only McCain has promised this.

Don't fall for political double-speak. Those two democrats just don't know which side is up.

Jan   March 17th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

I can't find out if Obama ever visited Iraq or Afganistan. If not, why not and why isn't Hillary bringing that up? I know she has been both places and that is why I feel she is more qualified to be President.

Mike Sk   March 17th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

That's right Christian Obama was not there for the vote Hillary was. And did she make the right decision at that time???? Did she say she made a mistake about her vote? Well it seems like with Hillary it's more of the same arrogance and more of the same is not what the American public want especially in these hard economic times. She has no record to run on and being first lady does not give you commander and chief qualities

Will-South Dakota   March 17th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

She voted for America to go to war, now she's the only one who can end it? How. She flipflops on this issue,When is she going to apologize for voting for this, not standing up to the Bush/Cheney evidience or questioning it? She's so out of touch.

Venus   March 17th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Hillary can bring our troops home. The troops want to come home lets do something for them vote for a president who can bring them home. Lets save the men and women who are sacrificing there lives for us. Hillary should be our president and the one to end-er of the war in Iraq.

Dan   March 17th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Madam President fix this country before it's too late

Jim Kansas   March 17th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Vote Obama, put McCain in the White House

Tanya K   March 17th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

We a country that is supposed to stand together we should be proud of ourselves at all times. We are fighting a war in the middle east not a civil one. Why is the race card being played so much, by supposed proud Americans? Oh, thats right they are now finally proud of there country. If we are going to excel in this world, why don't we stop fighting amongst ourselves.

Becky Montgomery   March 17th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Let Hillary get nominated and see what all the Republicans pull out on her. You will wish the worst you had to worry about was what a candidate's pastor said. It will be about what the candidate and her husband have done and are continuing to do. Then we will be under a Republican, extension of Bush administration, and will have more war, a terrible economy, and more lies.

What is worse?

Life28SBK   March 17th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

At this point I really dont care who is president... l just want our troops home!!!!!

gbolee   March 17th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Very funny

Marie   March 17th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is the only qualified candidate running for office. She is Americas only hope. We are in bad shape, people. We don't have time for Barrack to learn the job!

Diane   March 17th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

Democrats are already kissing the November election good-by because too many of you listen to Sean Hannity and jumped on the Obama bandwagon. Now live with it.

Sue, Louisiana   March 17th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

Hillary has words she backs up with plans. Obama has words, be backs up with more words, and just words, and more words, with just words. And oh yeah lies, too..."I never attended any of those sermons." Puhlease!

OKMom4Obama   March 17th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

Started it, so who best to end it? Give me a break – she should listen to herself. How does she sleep at night knowhing almost 4,000 Americans have died in this senseless war. What nerve.

Randy   March 17th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

The only thing Hillary is going to accomplish if she gets the nomination is absolutely NOTHING. This woman knows nothing about bringing people together. My God, the Republicans hate her and Bill.

IAMWMD   March 17th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Hillary would be 200 delegates behind if not for the republicans turning out in huge numbers to vote for her. That should tell you that they prefer to meet her as the nominee so that they can confront the Clintons with the dirt the've been saving since Bill left office. Face it Clintonians, you're gonna lose. Do the delegate count math. If she releases those tax return before the Michigan and Florida do-over's, you can kiss your candidate good bye. She's already due in court in California. She's gonna be inmate #08 instead of the 08 Democratic nominee runnerup.

Grandma   March 17th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Yes Hillary is a Hypocrite! Just look back to when Bill was in office. She couldn't keep her husband in line what makes people think she can run America.

Linlo   March 17th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

This is ridiculous. Are her supporters really listening to the things that come out of this woman's mouth?

martin   March 17th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Hillary Clinton helped Bush get us into this war, didn't have the courage to stand up to him, and now she is trying to pretend she is tough and will end the war in Iraq. I don't believe her. I don't believe any politician's rhetoric but you start from a disadvantage when you were on the wrong side of the issue in the first place.

Sara   March 17th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

It never ceases to amaze me what lies come out of this womans mouth. OBAMA 08'

Kitty   March 17th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Hillary says she can end the war????? Those of us who live in a military community and send loved ones over there day after day, do not believe she can even negotiate. Does she not realize that the people with which she would have to deal look on women as property? Hillary is the last thing we need as President, especially now.

Arthur-Texas   March 17th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Hillary was magnificant in her speech today.She really looked presidential.Her deep concern about out troops really came out.Thats why over 30 retired admirals and general are supporting her for commander in chief.
By contrast,look at what the other candidate is doing today.
There is a real choice we democrats will have to make between the candidates.Look at what happened today and think who is best prepared to face John Mccain in november.

Dian   March 17th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Hillary supporters are amazing ...they actually believe everything she says....even when you have it in writing that she said something different last week?! This woman will say or do anything to get elected. She's conniving.... and won't get my vote ever!!!!

Sara   March 17th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Just yet another reason not to vote for a Clinton again. Obama 08'

Maria   March 17th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Hillary will say anything to get nominated and then blame everyone except herself when she fails to deliver. Obama is the only candidate who can honestly put his money where his mouth is when it comes to the war on Iraq.

can't trust Obama   March 17th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Well, let's look at it this way. If Obama doesn't have a clue on what's going on in his own back yard (his church), then how will he know what's going on in the big, bad world around him?

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   March 17th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

to An Ohio Voter..... how can Obama be handing the White House to the Republicans when he's winning the nomination process? Great logic there..... It's Hillary the LOSER who will not give up and GO AWAY.

OBAMA '08

David   March 17th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

put no faith in Hillary doing such a thing. this globalist will continue this war for sure. she, too, is bought and paid for by the military-industrial complex and will march to their orders.

Mike   March 17th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Hillary complains about Obama "just making flowery words, but no solutions." Isn't what she gave a speech? Hey, WAKE UP – this isn't a solution, either, it's JUST A SPEECH!

Careful, Hillary, there's 4 fingers pointing back at you....

Garrett   March 17th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Hillary is right.
Obama is always wrong and Hill is only wrong sometimes.

Wake up people, do you really want a talker running the cvountry or do you want someone who makes things happen, no matter how minute they are.

Practically everyone in America wanted this war in 2001, just because Obama is a radical and had a brief moment of decent foresight doesn't make him a good president.

Hillary '08

Shane   March 17th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Obama really scares me now. he was not in the senate so he could not vote present for the war. remember he wants to change washington, just like spitzer wanted to get corruption out of albany. if he is the nominee, I am moving out of the US.

Kim   March 17th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

you pitifull small minded people, that's why we are in the situation that we are in now, hateful, negative people.

AMP   March 17th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Obamabots are running scared AND your candidate is in full scale damage control! NO, you can't have it both ways! How can this guy be an "outsider" when he is in the senate? His pastor, hmm.........This guys is done, the RNC has destroyed the democratic party from within and through the media, but yet the Clinton's get the blame for it! I would think anyone could beat McCain in the fall after being endorsed by GWB, but leave it to the democrats to mess this one up! Sad, really!

Grif   March 17th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

The right words will always matter....

Just ask John Adams....................1776AD

Albo   March 17th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

test

Jo   March 17th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Clinton says that she will convene her military advisors on day 1 to develope a plan to start moving troops out in 60 days. Obama says he will bring them out within the year. Who has the better conceived plan. This is another example where Obama is speaking in grand generalities and Clinton is prepared to do the work.

Being President of the United States is more than inspiring action, it is getting things done and Obama is ill prepared to turn his inspiration into action. If he wants to end the war then tell us exactly how he is going to do that. He says all the right things but there is such a lack of substance or planning. Any plan he does come up with, he got from Clinton.

Senator Clinton will be the best to end this war because she knows the players and the military and when she tells the politicians in Iraq to get their act together, they will know that she is not kidding or inspiring or hoping for a change. She is demanding it and will back up that demand with definitive action.

Objective   March 17th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Obama may not approve his minister's lessons, but he has attended a church for 20 years. By now he must know his own pastor's views on this country, whites, etc. "Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." Mr. Wright speaks his convictions. These were not politically inconvenient for Mr. Obama while he attended the church. The fact that there never was a falling out between the two of them tells us a lot about Mr. Obama. Even now he refers to Mr. Wright as like an uncle.

The politics of hatred based on race should not triumph in this country, whoever practices them. It is not Mr. Obama's fault what Mr. Wright says. But if Mr. Obama is such a poor judge of character that he attends his church for 20 years without figuring out what this guy believes, it makes me question his judgement.

melchg   March 17th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

I love how hillary says she has "solutions" she has the same thing all 3 pres candidates have "speeches"...What she is doing is no different from Obama or from McCain....All are making speeches full of promises....they speak to hope for the best outcomes on their parts but in truth when any of them get into the White House many of those promises won't be kept, often its out of their hands.

Alexandra   March 17th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Shame on you Hillary!!!

Michael   March 17th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Hillary supporters, please join us in boycotting msnbc tv & .com. It's bad enough the way they have treated her and promoted Obama (they are being referred to as the Obama network), but now you can register to vote for him on their home page! Enough is enough! Thanks

An Ohio Voter   March 17th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Barack, you are handing the Republicans the White House on a silver platter!!!!!!!!

Hillary '08

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   March 17th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Hillary the Hypocrite

Didn't she VOTE for the Bush War?

Deb   March 17th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

People ought to spend some time remembering how disliked Hillary was as a first lady. They ought to remember the complete disaster her health care initiative was. Nobody liked her. Nobody liked working with her. Wake up America!

Christian   March 17th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

THE FIRST THING PEOPLE NEED TO REALIZE IS: OBAMA WAS NOT THERE TO VOTE FOR THE WAR!!!! IF HE WAS HE WOULD'VE VOTED PRESENT LIKE HE TENDS TO DO A LOT!!!!! Now that we got that out of the way, Obama is a liar!! He is not trustworthy at all. He tells the American people one thing but then his advisors say another!!!

Hillary 08!!!

Franky   March 17th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

What War??? The one our nation is in??? I don't know but when someone says they could end a war, I think is a little easier said than done. Let alone problems have arise and questions have been made about this war. I don't know, this issue is a bit different.....

Debra   March 17th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

McCain really scares me. We can not have another Republican president in office aain or we wil be in even worse shape. Besides that I think that McCain has anger issues. Also his age bothers me alot. I think he is too old to be running.

NIC   March 17th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

All these Clinton Haters on here. Spin, spin, spin, all the Haters do is inject crude, rude, inappropriate personal attacks. Talk issues people, frankly many people are sick and tired of your ridiculous comments that are unthoughtful and meaningless.

Al, Sacramento Ca   March 17th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Lets not forget Obama has voted for the funding the last two times, that is blatant contradiction.

CClaudia   March 17th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Considering she has been endorsed by over 30 admirals, generals and flag officers and they all agree she is the only one who will end the war and would make the BEST commander in chief, I agree with Hillary. I will take the words of certified war heroes over the words of Obama fanatics any day of the week.

Obama's only claim to fame, "I didn't vote for the war" (REPEAT AD NAUSEUM). Give me a break.

Henry - Florida   March 17th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Hillary Clinton did not vote to invade Iraq. She voted to give power to the president. Most members of Congress did this as a show of unity.

I'm really shocked at how little most Obama supporters really know about the issues. You treat this campaign like you're voting for the next American Idol.

Patrick Anthony Drake   March 17th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

PEACE.

Carol Myers   March 17th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Lucy, Maryland to you I say Where is Obama's Senate records?
Carol Oh.

Diane, Buffalo, Wy.   March 17th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Are we talking about the same Sen. Clinton that voted for the war and then a few years later said had I but known? Yep that's the one. The same person who won't release taxes, has inflated her foreign policy experience, and won't release earmarks. The person who claims that she has been "vetted" Give me a break. We have had enough of the Clinton/ Bush era. We need some a breath of fresh air in Washington.
We need someone who is willing to dig in and really attempt to make a change. If Sen Clinton is elected it will wind up being same old stuff, different day.

Angelo   March 17th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Sorry, I prefer having someone else clean up the mess left by those who voted for the war. The way I see it, if you had bad judgment in going into the war then you will have bad judgment creating a plan to get out of the war.

Plus its scary to know that Hillary didn’t even read the documents leading up to the vote of the Iraq war!

Sara   March 17th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

How ironic, coming from someone who voted for the war. OBAMA 08'

Mike   March 17th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Well seeing Obama earmarked $8 million dollars to his campaign finance supporter and board of director of General Dynamics for ammo used in the bradley fighting vehicle for the Iraq war, I would say Hillary is the only one going to stop the war. My family who are Iraq and gulf war vets say the ammo Obama earmarked for is already out of date. Obviously just a financial and political move on his part.

Sara   March 17th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Please, make these Clintons go away. Their time has come and gone.

Deann   March 17th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I think she will end the war, and turning our economic back to the right track, she is the only one has this ability to do well for the job.

john s   March 17th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Both of these candidates will withdraw from Iraq with no worry about what happens to the country, the Middle East, and the exporting of terorrism from Iran. If Iraq becomes totally unstable and under the influence of Iran, it will eventually lead to a destablization of the region and continuous export of terrorism, and possibly endanger the source of world oil. Iran's president would love to become the world controlloer of oil. We need to keep Iraq stable until the cooler heads in Iran can come to the realization that Iran will be a pariah until it gives up its' nuclear program, stops exporting terrorism and gets rid of their nutty president.

Rosalynd   March 17th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Yea right Hilary, and I got a bridge to sell you!

Rosalynd   March 17th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Yea right Hilary, and I got bridge to sell you!

HC   March 17th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

CNN who won Texas? THe whole thing together!
and when will there be another debate on real issues?

karen from VA   March 17th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Hillary is a competent Senator who got lots of money for New York, but she has proven that she is given to hyperbole, near hysteria and secrecy. The half-lies and secrecy of the current administration got us into this mess in the first place, and are we stupid enough to elect someone who won't release her logs as First Lady, won't release her earmarks or tax returns? if you want more of the same old deception, Her Royal Clinton is a great way to go.

Debra   March 17th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

It looks like Obama supporters can not stop playing the Hillary hate game. Too bad. They are extremly troubled people who are the most paranoid people I have ever heard. Makes me think they are only posers trying to pose as Obama supporters but really Republicans trying to stir the pot. As long as our Democratic candidates are tied up in all the tiny issues they can not deal with the important issues in this campaign. Stop it Posers- I see you for who you really are- just a bunch of Republicans trying to stir the pot!

SF KID   March 17th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Clinton didn't just vote for the Iraq war and refuse to apologize for it, she voted to give Bush the same authority on Iran.

Joy Hussien   March 17th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Hillary's next book title wil be "The HILLARY Delusion".

MikenMississippi   March 17th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Okay people least we forgot..the nation as a whole was supportive at first of the war..don't we remember the yellow ribbons and all the American flags flying after 911? It was the nations sentiment that we go to war to keep America safe! Why did Obama feel that we should not be at war when all of America (or that's the way it seemed) was for bombing the bad guys who hurt Americans on our own soil? That's the real question we should be asking!

Sam   March 17th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

How about a joint ticket of McCain & Billery to run Irag?

Give Me A Break!!   March 17th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

With all due respect to Hillary Clinton (I voted for her husband). I really believe she will say anything or do anything to win! She plays the old school game of politics of distraction! They are pushing her to release her tax returns and earmarks and she comes out with this shallow rhetoric to distract everyone from that fact. Keep the right hand moving fast so no one looks at the left hand.

This is the kind of tired old politics that Obama wants to change! It's that time and the Clinton watch has run out...!

mary   March 17th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I don't trust Obama to run this country. He saids one thing and does another. If he would have been in the Senate he would have voted for the war too, just like every other American. He keeps bringing up the same thing ((I was against the war)) over and over. We are past that point! We have to fix the problem now and I just don't trust him now that I know who his friends are. You pick your friends by the similaries that you each have in common!

Independent   March 17th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

The former GOP senator, the only GOP who voted against Iraqi war, called Clinton the Bush war's "enabler." Read it yourself on Fox News online now.

cynthia   March 17th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Barack Obama still has my vote. I wouldn't vote for Hillary Clinton if she was the last woman on earth. She couldn't even run her darn household. Go OBAMA!! 08

M.   March 17th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Clinton isn't the only candidate who can end the war and she knows it ...Obama will end it and the difference between them is that he had no part in starting it.

Ron   March 17th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Barack is the wisest of the remaining three presidential contenders and has the best, practical chance to win bring an end to an untennable, unwinnable costly misatke!

Mike D   March 17th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

She'll end the war the same way she brought peace to northern ireland, by having tea with women's groups.

Not convinced   March 17th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

GO HILLARY! !!!!!!!!

If Obama wins the nomination the Republicans will throw flip-flop at him just like they did to Kerry. He will be destroyed. In order to maintain what's left of his good name, he should drop out so he can get his stories straight for 2016.

Get Fair   March 17th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

When you people are demanding for Hillary to release tax info etc, could you please be fair and also demand that Obama release ALL of his info, as well?

Thanks.

NewbHillarySupporters   March 17th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

hillary supporters are such irrational newbies

Nando, Florida   March 17th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

MCCAIN/CLINTON 08

Z   March 17th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Hillary, you are handing the Republicans the presidency on a silver platter.

Uncle Sam   March 17th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

You are crazy to think that Hillary is the best candidate. Just ask yourself what has she accomplished. Just mentioned one single thing. Do not waste your time thinking because the answer is 0. You know well that Bill will be doing the work. She just want to make history by been the first woman elected president or the first former first lady becoming a president. She does not care about anything and her administration will be a disaster. Get real. OBAMA is the answer. Enough with the Clintons.

Dave MN   March 17th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Clinton voted for the war - because she was duped? She's one of two esteemed senators from her state, she has the responsibility to NOT be duped, and she must take responsibility for her vote.

She took a risk & lost - avoiding this issue now tells us exactly how she'd take responsibility in the Whitehouse. Poor judgment followed up by inability to own up to it. Is this the kind of president we want?

Obama Supporter   March 17th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I can't wait until the true story concerning the Clinton's tax record's come out into the open. All negative comments about Obama are going to be a thing of the past. It is truly sad how this country view "African-American" perspectives. Pastor Wright has his own views and it's nothing no one can do bout it.......that is his voice and experience. It's nothing wrong with Obama hearing voices of African-American's that grew up during very racial times. I am in my 40's as well.......and I have no problem listening to all types of people. That's why we need more diverse perspectives. White Americans seems afraid of this challenge. Let's work together so that we will not be so afraid of change .........because it is a new day.

Obama '08

Celia Ann   March 17th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Queen Hillary is the only capable person to do anything. What are we thinking??? This is how it goes, Bush, Bush, Clinton, Clinton, Bush, Bush....and now it is her turn. On top of that she is Entitled.

Jen   March 17th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

She stood on the floor of the Senate and said her vote for war was the hardest decision that she ever had to make, but she said she cast it “with conviction.” And while Senator Clinton now calls her vote for the “Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq” a vote for diplomacy, there is no doubt that it was a vote for war.

Lucy, Maryland   March 17th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Hillary refused to own up and acknowledge the fact that she voted to invade Iraq, and now she is only one who can end the war??? What a joke! It looks like politic is the Clinton’s favorite game. Hillary shouldn’t talk about the war, and being a commander in chief because it makes her look really bad. She is running for the highest office of the land, and yet she is the last person to file and release her tax records to the public. April 15th, is the last day of official filing taxes.

NADINE JENKINS   March 17th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Here is the truth – Obama does not write and approve his ministers lessons each week. Educate yourselves about the black culture and oppression that HAS occurred and continues to occur. Get real Hilary is divisive, manipulative and will do anything and say anything to get to the Whitehouse. Obama brings hope and if people get all caught up in the media hype you will miss the real issues. Lets get back to the campaign!!!!!!!!!

Henry - Florida   March 17th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Hillary Clinton has a plan that she has spelled out in detail. She gave a speech today in Washington that went into detail. Obama says one thing to us and his campaign says another in Europe.

We are starting to see a little dirt behind the ears of your golden boy. I believe the tide is going to be turning.

Annette   March 17th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Has anyone noticed how Hillary always acts if she is the only person who knows everything or can do anything? If she can do so much, why won't she release her tax returns NOW and the contributors to the Clinton libray? I know why......... and you know why.............
Crooked politicians-Billary Clinton
By the way, I am republican who will vote for Obama!!

Jose   March 17th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Hillary is preparing Obama for the presidency by playing devil's advocate. Republicans don't stand a chance against Obama come the general election!!! Go Obama!!

manuel castells   March 17th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

For Hillary to be credible on the Iraq war she must apologize for her 2003 vote and say explicitly it was a mistake, as John Edwards courageously did time ago. Anything else just follows the pattern of doing and saying whatever it takes to win – the only Clintons' "principle". This is the way to destroy her and the Democrats' chances in november.

Jim Saxon   March 17th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

It's the same old politics of half-truths, division and manipulation!

Michael   March 17th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Hillary, you have a plan and an excuse for everything.

By your own admission, you DID NOT READ the report when you voted for the war, and you have the audacity to say that you are ready to lead on day one.

Sure, Obama didn't have the opportunity to vote on the war. But the point is that if he could have voted, he would have at least read the report first. We need someone who at takes the time and effort to understand the issues BEFORE they make stupid decisions like Hillary has done.

You are NOTready to lead on day one. America is sick of your lies, your mis-representations, your twisted half-truths, and your dirty tricks.

It's clear to me that you will gladly ruin the Democratic party for your own personal gain.

David   March 17th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Rumsfield/Bush...Hillary...McCain, axis of evil, has started this war and will be the only group who has the EXPERIENCE to end it...

Vote Hillary/ McCain please

Tanya K   March 17th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Is our country ready for the kind of CHANGE Obama is speaking of? It has now become obvious he will lie, manipulate, and say what ever he thinks the public wants to here. I was unsure at first between him or Hillary, but wake up America his true colors are showing.

Sara   March 17th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

By Hook or by Crook, I demand to be President says Hillary.

mike   March 17th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

ITs amazing how much exaggeration and outright lies come out of Hillary and Bill's mouth. They have successfully lowered the level of discourse in this campaign from every angle possible. At some point the people of this country will wake up to the truth. Maybe it will be when the Paul Vs Clinton case comes to light in California. Maybe it will be when the Clinton's release the donors to their presidential library and we all discover the Oil money and pardoned felon's that fund them – I dont know....

What I do know is that the next generation does not have to grow up with the untruthful, do anything political figures that currently run this country. It is a shame, and once again i've been Politics have turned me off.

better luck next time, America

John from Cape Cod   March 17th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Which experience exactly will Clinton use to end the War.
Her experience in avoiding releasing her full tax returns.
Her experience with Wal Mart?
Her experience during her husbands Impeachment?

Please enlighten us

John B.   March 17th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

What would you have him do Vickie? Cut off funding for the troups and leave them unsupported? Not very smart.

Realistic   March 17th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Yes, she can end the War just like she negotiated peace in Northern Ireland. [ Roll Eyes ]

Peter   March 17th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Yes, Senator Obama was against the War in Iraq at the beginning – when he was not in the U.S. Senate and did not have to cast a vote. How has he voted since being sworn in?

Now that we are at war in Iraq, what is he going to do about it? He says he is going to withdraw our troops, but is he? His own adviser said no.

What is President Obama going to do on January 21, 2009? Because the plan Candidate Obama has proposed is not realistic and if he is as honest as he pretends he is he will admit that it will not work on the timetable he claims.

There is no doubt that Americans want an end to the war in Iraq. They do not want as Senator Obama implied, however he spins it, a withdrawal from Iraq followed by a redeployment.

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are real. It is where we go from here that matters and who is qualified to lead us. There is nothing in Senator Obama’s past or present to suggest he is that candidate.

Peter S.
Georgia

Adam   March 17th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Time to drop out Obama. Your 15 minutes are WAY over.

Shane   March 17th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

You go Hillary!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I fought hard for you in Nevada and will fight hard to get you in the Oval Office. She voted for the war because at that time everyone believed Dictator Bush. Obama gave that speech but has not done anything. Remember, he is on a comittee for the war in Afghanistain and has not been to any meetings or voted on anything related to it. Very scary and he wants to be President. NOT this time. Maybe sometime later. Lets see how you do in the Senate first

SW-GA   March 17th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Ok.. And again I ask what experience does she have? Hillary is using her experience of being First Lady and meeting people as actual experience. Both her and McCain represent old politics.

Tell me this....
Why hasn't she released her tax records?

What is she hiding..... Maybe she has taken money from the lobbyist or no telling who else.

Obama is a good man and has brought a lot of people together. Has Hillary.... NO!!!

fred   March 17th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Better the audacity of Hillary, that the audacity of hope from a racist Obama!!!!

GO HILLARY!!!

Nick   March 17th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Wow, Vickie.. See, I would want a president who could see past those half truthes and not buy into cheap lies in the first place..

OF COURSE HE HAS CONTINUED TO SUPPORT IT FINANCIALLY, IF YOU DON'T THEN WE LEAVE OUR TROOPS OUT THERE HANGING... Ya, real smart.

LJ   March 17th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Some say Hillary is taking the high road in not speaking of Obama's Rev. Wright situation. I think she's being as silent as a mouse because she doesn't want Obama hitting her with SCHIP ("6,000,000 children have health care because of me", Hillary words), not so according to a high ranking Washington politician who knows, or the fact that no bullets were flying over her head in Bosnia as she claimed or that her efforts at bringing peace to N. Ireland were just "silly" according to officials of that country. What a Liar! Her inexperience is showing, after all she is only a junior senator and previous first lady. The only thing she does well is give speeches, after all she suckered all of you.

Kimmie   March 17th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

How will she end the war with: Mr Peter Paul? What is she hiding?

Mike Jones   March 17th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Hillary is dead in the water. She has to win 60% of the vote in the last 10 contests. Also no one is talking about her tax returns going public on 4/15/08. Roughly 1 week before Pennslyvania votes. Hillary is going down. Barack the vote!

MickyD10   March 17th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Go to youtube and watch "Hillary: the movie" there are nine segments, and It's long, but well worth the time.

maggie   March 17th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

You go girl! We trust you to do what you say. Can't say as much for the other guy!

HILLARY 08!!!

david   March 17th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Uh, I think she did take responsibility for it Barack. Weren't you listening at the debate when asked what she regretting most?

Bunch of talk that Obama. No substance.

We want the one that will deliver on her promises...HILLARY.

PENNSYLVANIA FOR HILLARY!!!

Boomer:White Female Supporter for Obama   March 17th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Nothing Clinton says can be taken as a possibility until she releases her tax returns, her earmarks and the donors to the Clinton library. All of it is just empty rhetoric. It appears that she has just come to realize the money and power given to private contractors...did she forget to read those bills and agreements too??

The same goes for internal problems...which lobbyists have donated to her...what does she owe in favors??

GirlTexas   March 17th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

HIILARY IS A SOUR LOSER.....!!! ITS VERY SAD!!

jacmac   March 17th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Hey LeftNut,
It is Obama that sings Coumbaya, not Hillary.
Obama has been nothing but arrogant this whole campaign. Like the USA owes him this Presidency. He needs to go back to church and ask for guidance, and not the one he belongs to, a racist group pretending to be a church. Obama is finally being identified as the racist he is, him and his unhappy to be an American, wife.

nmt   March 17th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

hilary supporters, while you love your candidtaes so much, and will do anything for her to win...please explain to me how or why you continue to support her secrecy. Please try to do this without adding Obama this Obama that etc....lets maturely face this issue.....give me your real issues.......why do you support the fact that she has not released her taxes for 2006, ( we all know the 2007 taxes are atill in the process, no one has released those yet), 2005, 2004?..etc..
yes, the campaign says that she has over twenty years taxes released, well she is over sixty, i wouls expect more than twenty years..
so please explain to me...or address this issue so that i may understand ,Her earmarks? Her Library papers which she bases most of her qualified to lead on daY 1 claims on.......please ...edxplain....

CNN, plaese i know you moderate everything for whatever reason..but why silence a huge portion of americans who want to understands this???? please print this..it is noty a negative question at all...and anyway, Hilary cares about the votersd right...so please ...be fare

Al   March 17th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Everyone talks about the candidates supporting funding the war after the initial vote. If they did not support funding the war, would it be over? No. The troops would just be there without the proper gear and the death toll would be much higher. The candidates were looking out for the troops. Thanks to all who supported funding the war.

Dale, Indianapolis   March 17th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

So let me get this right, If Hillary has a scandal (or actually 15 years as she claims) then it's admirable for her to stay in politics. But if Obama's name is remotely attached to even one, the he should quit politics alltogether?? Okay, that sounds fair.

So by saying that do I get to keep my "Hill-a-bot" green clover?

sozzi   March 17th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

There is a DOUBLE STANDARD in the MEDIA, everyone wants Obama to get tought with Hillary. But, what does the Media consider tough? If Mr. Obama talks down, and tough to Hillary, then the Media (especially, CNN) will say, why are you treating this woman bad.

Why isn't the Media asking Hillary to release a list of her donors, NO they are to busy asking Obama why he has received these contributions from Rezko. All politicians receive monies/contributions from individuals who have or are being investigates for wrong doings, JUST ASK HILLARY.

On Pastor Wright; why is it OK for the Conservative pastors to preach the same message as Mr. Wright? But, no Media coverage. Why, because it's the white man's country?

AMK   March 17th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

CC, Chicago....Obama pretty much did the same thing. Read up bud.

Vig   March 17th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Clinton will end the war and more. If Obama gets elected we will have to deal with his bumbling excuses.

MickyD10   March 17th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Hillary always has, always does, and always will say what ever she thinks the people WANT to hear in order to get a vote. But then rarely if ever acts upon her promises later. There is always some excuse, some reason why she can't ever seem to do what she says she's going to do. It's always some right wing conspiracy or something for her. The prrof is in her record.

Ask the good people of upstate New York, whom she promised jobs if they voted for her. Did she get them jobs?......No!! In fact many of those people have lost their homes and farms and are on food stamps right now. Most of her efforts went to the fat cats in the big cities. Her biggest claim that I know of is that she helped get 7,000 kids health insurance. Big deal. Obama got 155,000 kids insurance in Illinois.

That's not to say Hillarry hasn't brought a lot of fed money to New York State. But knobody will probably ever know because she refuses to release her earmark information. And I just don't understand that. If she has in fact been doing good works for the citizens I'd think she'd want to disclose where all the money went, not hide it.

Judy   March 17th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Forgot to mention that I am from Pennsylvania and Hillary has too many wacky hormones. We have seen it in her speeches. The tears only came out because she was tired and running behind Obama.

E. PARRY   March 17th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Hillary after voting for the War in Iraq. You have not said you made a mistake. You also had the chance to take a different rout after knowing your mistake. You also started talking about ending the war when you started running for president. How can then ponit a Finger to Senator Obama. When you biting someones hand better be careful it might your own.

Adam Orlando Florida   March 17th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Bring home our troops Hillary!

Hillary Clinton 2008!

Ben JI   March 17th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Hillary discloses PAST TAX RETURNS, EARMARK REQUESTS, ORIGINE OF FUNDS documents from your husband’s Presidential Library and the list of donors to the Library.

Stop the speeches, DISCLOSE, RELEASE, and MAKE YOURSELF TRANSPARENT. This is not personal attacks, but it's part of solutions for America: transparency.

Ben JI

Brad, Obamaha NE   March 17th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

@ end of obama – fixed your post for ya

Obama supporters=Informed followers that keep wininng.

She is the only candidate who will destroy America and American image which has been spoiled for a long time.

Barack is a better candidate. He knows what he is talking about. He is a fighter and a doer. Obama and their supporters are all winners. They keep winning.

you're welcome

tdo   March 17th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I can't wait till we see Obama on tv saying, "I did not have sex with that man, Larry sinclair." I hope larry was wearing a blue dress and saved it. lol

Alex H   March 17th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Hey Hillary, I see what you're saying. We shouldn't use new plans based on new evidence and points of views and stick to our past guns in terms of policy decisions.

So I've got this plan that Harry Truman used with Japan that you'd be interested in... gimme a call we'll talk strategy. It worked back then so why won't it work now?

...Or we can be open minded when the time comes to take action.

Oh and Samantha Powers is an Irish born woman. Don't you think she'd be supporting you if you were the one that brought peace to N. Ireland?

Wayne, Greenville TX   March 17th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Seems only fair – after all, she helped George W. Bush start it.....

La Bomb ba   March 17th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Obama takes whatever position the wind is blowing. McCain doesn't know when to quit. America is bankrupt not just recession. America is owned by foreign investors. China and Saudi won the War because they own America

Objective   March 17th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Obama says he opposed the war in 2003, 2004 etc. Actually, during the election campaign of 2004, when he supported John Kerry (who had supported the war), Obama's tune changed. He did not publicly contradict his party's candidate by opposing the war, and instead made positive comments in the media. His position on the war, as articulated by all his votes and public speeches, has varied over time. This is in contrast to Clinton, who initially favored the war and has grown increasingly skeptical. This is also in contrast to McCain, who always said that "enough troops" should be sent to ensure success and criticized early war strategies.

Robert in Toronto,ON   March 17th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

The reality is that in no thanks to the aides from both candidates they have done quite a disservice to the campaigns. A lot of slander and issues that Americans don't care about (ie race and/or gender) has put a blockade on what America is in need of: real solutions.

I have no doubt that EITHER Sen. Obama or Sen. Clinton would be able to withdraw troops from Iraq when needed to – unlike Sen. McClain who would have the troops there for at least his term as President.

That being said, I believe Obama would be better suited for a diplomatic solution whereas I could see Clinton wavering on her points and going by the political climate how it will suit her.

Mike in Houston   March 17th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

So Hillary's foreign policy can be summarized as turning everything over to the United Nations. I am sure that Hugo Chavez is pleased.

Bayou Joe   March 17th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Obama will talk to the insurgents and they will peacefully lay down their weapons and stop killing innocent civilians. Hillary will scare them to death and they will no longer be a threat to the peaceful Iraqui people. That is about as naive as it gets with these two.
This war has been going on since the birth of Christ and the prophet Mohammed. This is an ideological war between Christians and Muslims that is now gone beyond ideology and into physical warfare.
The way to finish it is not acceptable to civilized people which is what we claim to be. Yes, we need to bring our troops home, but it must be done as McCain suggests, otherwise we expose the people to continued warfare and Iran and Syria will occupy the land. If you think that the price of oil is high right now, wait until that happens. If you think that the killing will stop, you are wrong. More killings will take place in the Middle East until the Radical Muslims control the region.
After that comes Europe, Asia and then the United States. That is their goal and nothing short of annihilation will stop the Radical Jihadists.

NO Hillary   March 17th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

With the remark from Clinton "I am the only one that can end the Iraq war" we see Clinton openly lying to people. Obama is also a candidate that will end the war, particularly, he was the one that never authorized the war and never wanted the war at the first place. Hillary needs to talk facts – not lies- we voters are not stupid. This is an insult on teh voters.

Anonymous   March 17th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

GOOD JOB HILARY GO AHEAD ALL THE BEST
OBAMA HAS A MOSLEM ORIGIN? WHATS NEXT

Dem   March 17th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Let's not forget that most of American ALSO voted for the war!

juan   March 17th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I think some of you are getting your opinions about Obama from the slanted media and from hillary's fat lying mouth.

Obama clearly and convincinly answered all questions regarding so-called scandals about him. He is not a scandalous person. Hillary would love for everyone to think so because she is.

People are not falling for the Clinton's devisive tactics of smearing the good guy all over blogs. That's how they like to win, by tearing the party apart and then acting like they never did anything wrong.

We are on to it and not falling for it. OBAMA 08!

Don, San Francisco   March 17th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Really? The only one? I have to go back and check the Consitution, but I thought all Presidents are Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces and, as such, any of the candidates, if they won, are perfectly capable of ordering our troops out of Iraq.

Ann   March 17th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

She is the only dem. in the race to vote for the war..

Rosa   March 17th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

So let me get this right, Hillary.. since you voted to start the war only you can end it. Fairy tale land.. of course anyone who wants to end it can end it including Barack Obama.
Hillary all this garbage from you and your henchwomen is hurting you.

Lisa, Scranton   March 17th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Well, she was at least half right on this one. She is the only candidate, the only one that can release her records!! C'mon Hildabeast, time to come clean. Where you get your money from girlfriend?? If she won't tell, maybe Spitzer's bank can investigate her too? I'm just thinking.

Clintonfatigued   March 17th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Well put Mike from Arkansas.

You could add in all of her spoken experience, has been DEBUNKED by the people that actually had something to do with it, point one would be the SCHIP bill, that she had NOTHING TO DO WITH, Northern Ireland peace talks agin NOTHING to do with, etc, etc.

Busy cooking the books a bit before releasing Hillarity? Sorry, blaming Bush didn't work.

Congratulations Democrats for grabbing defeat rom the jaws of victory.

Two brutally flawed candidates while Biden, Richardson and Dodd were ignored, "you know" actual experience with "you know" actual page after page of RESULTS.

Thank you so much.

Kenneth   March 17th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

How she is going to end the war when she will never be President? She can't catch Obama on the delegate count. A big win in PA won't catch her up, and Obama will win the next two primaries after PA. The only way for her to get the nomination is to steal it, Bush style. If she steals it, a whole lot of Obama supporters will feel cheated and not show up to vote in November. At least Obama is in position to win the nomination straight-up, with no trickeration.

ShirleyY - Seattle   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Hillary stop lying regarding your credentials, how can you have 35 years of experience, first of all, your husband was President, not you.

Hillary release your taxes, donors, earmarks and let's see how honest you are with the american people, you are a liar.

Your husband will be President if you make it, hopefully he wont entertain anymore interns.

Alice   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Hillary is lying through her teeth. She supported the war, voted for it, and did not voice any opposition until the polls went against it and when she had to garner left wing Democrat support. In my book that constitutes a poll reading, pandering weasel.

Hillary, like her hubby, is without conviction.

Ron, Las Vegas   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

So she will just end the war no matter what. Her statements are like that of Bush. She knows better than everyone else. She also has supported each funding bill of the war and voted for it. Does she know all the facts about Iraq and what the situation will be like in a year? At least Obama has the sense to say that he will end the war but his plans may have to change based on the circumstances when he becomes president and really finds out what is going on. Hillary did not know what was going on when she voted for the war and does not know what is going on now.

Pon Mao   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Now give me a break, if it was not for her vote, we probably would not be in this war at first place.

Brad, Obamaha NE   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

i find it hilarious that people are calling for Obama to step down because of his pastor.

i'm a white dude and i know that rich white people control america.

which is why i'm votng for the black guy.

how much more change does one need?

and on another note – how does she believe that being the wife of a president makes her the best person to be president.

my wife is a nurse... does that mean i am qualified to be one as well?

this race is getting boring. i blame the media for making it go on as long as it has.

b.

P.S. – if the monster gains the nomination from backhanded deals and complaining i will vote for Nader.

John   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Barack Obama is dwelling on the past when it comes to whoever supported the war in Iraq!He is contesting the seat of the President of USA.and his theme is future and change!It is difficult to know or exactly find out where Obama stands! I remember vividly during the debates on Healthcare with Hillary.In most responses.Obama comments after Hillary's opinion on the subject was always something like,"quote,I agree with what Hillary says"end of quote!The next day you heard totally to the contrary of what his opinion constituted.That is termed flip-flopping.Opposing the war while still a senator in illionois,is a different thing.Not tabling a bill to end the war and bring soldiers home is a noncommital attitude for a person who always sings thesame song about opposing the war.This picture paints a pattern that is no good for a Presidential contender!Obama should tell the Americans what his Healthcare entails.I support Hillary Clinton not because of color,but the immense experience and the ease with which she explains the policies she stands forGo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Hillary Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 08-12.

Proud Black Woman   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Way to go Hillary !!!
Sometimes the right man for the job is a woman !!!

Can't wait to vote for you ...

Leanna
Pittsburgh, PA

Carl   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Ron Paul will end the war.

Michiel W   March 17th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Stop for one minute and imagine these words were spoken by Senator Obama! Would you all take him at his word? Those of you who support him most definitely would. You wouldn't question how he would do it, you would just accept that he would. So, why do you doubt Senator Clinton's word? At least she has a plan. And after the revelations that keep coming out with regard to Senator Obama, I certainly would not take his word over that of Senator Clinton.

pendergast   March 17th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

obama STINKS!!!!!!
And we dont need to TRAIN the president....
lets face it Clinton has the guts, the savy, the experience and THE BRAINS!!!!!!
Hillary will lead us out of the Bush MINDLESS, MAJOR MASTAKES.

Bill   March 17th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Plan is good for today, but an odd statement to make. The reality is that Obama has always said he is against the war and this will again focus on the idea that she was complicit in the Iraq war with her original vote. The reality is that there votes for Iraq have been identical since Obama has gotten in the Senate, but the issue was not the idea of support of the war, it was about supporting the troops at that point. This is an important distinction, because once the troops are there and you don't have enough congressional support to end the war, you have to give the troops the tools that they need. Obama has been correct in this vein, and by her votes she agreed. Either one of them will end the war, Obama is simply saying that if things change, you have to rely on the experts in how to withdraw. That is not backtracking, that is common sense.

If words and integrity matter, she needs to list her earmarks (like Obama), taxes, and show her experience through White House records of her as First Lady. I am getting bored with this tax argument that once upon a time, they opened there tax records, we are talking about current tax records (2005, 2006). The idea is who have they beginning money from, because the other question is if she is president, to whom does she owe her allegiance? Tax records could help to show that.

sandyb   March 17th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Would someone PLEASE pull the plug on the energizer bunny Clinton. She can't win the delegates, the supers are going to go with the candidate who has the most pledged delegates, Florida isn't going to have a do-over, and if Michigan does then he stands to win that one too. It's over, put a fork in her and call it done!

Dem   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

"I have been consistent in saying..." Yep, that's right Obama. That is one thing you have definitely been "consistent with saying." You SAY a lot, you just don't DO a lot. You didn't denounce Rezko or Wright until pushed into it by the media and the people. You haven't disclosed your Senate records (they don't exist? how convenient). Not exactly the "transparent" campaign you said you'd run. Not exactly the "transparent" candidate you said you would be. ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS.

Mark, IL   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

*******QUESTION TO ALL****************

If the price of Oil is based on the fear of Geopolitical condition...when was the last time a tanker of Oil DIDN'T make it to the U.S.????

Followup, If that fear was proven wrong, why then did the customer NOT get some kind of equalization????? Explanation please!

Paul   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Madam HRC aint crying today since the media is in her favour and not going negative by telling the world she back Bush in his Irag War. What is HRC religion cos i have observed Obama pastor's picture n message on CNN all weekend since thursday. Have guy's on CNN ask HRC who is her pastor? has her pastor ever spoke negative about other race? People rage are made personal, best CNN ask pastor wright is problem not linking the whole issue on Obama. HRC your speech makes no sense because you voted for the war and you have not release any tax or info about your experience. I was an Hillary person but I think am going for Obama because his new and his hands are clean on like others. Obama08

Lucas, Nashville TN   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

YEAH RIGHT.

First, she has NO experience. Second, she bent over for the war as part of that collective bag of wusses in congress. Third, she just wants to fight with the GOP for the sport of it, and this is the latest thing she can say to keep that fight going.

Obama is the only true centrist/populist, and he's the only one who (like so many patriotic but sensible citizens) opposed the war from the START. Seems he'd be better suited to get out of it in a responsible way.

Not to mention the WORLD cares what he has to say. They (other nations) don't listen to Hillary. Nobody cares what's coming out of her mouth. Let's keep this focussed on INTEGRITY, CREDIBILITY, and JUDGEMENT... not these transparent ideas that Hillary tries to sell.

Allan   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Will these right wing nuts get over it, all they can report is that Bill had sex with that woman. After the most intensive and most expensive investigation in history Ken Starr was unable to prove the Clintons did any of the things you alege. Get over it losers.
Hillary is the only candidate that can clean up the mess that the worst lier in history has created.
Bill cleaned up the mess Bush I created, it is time for Hillary to clean up this mess.
I liked prosperity that we had in the Clinton years, I don't know how you can like the mess created by this Administration.
Get over it.

Africa for Hillary   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

YOU are the best , better than the rest of them , knowlege ,dedication, intigrity, hardwork and background .. All the way to the W H Mrs Clinton..

Kerry   March 17th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Let see, Hillary voted for the Iraq war without reading the intelligence report. Yeah, judgment without research and facts.

Of course everyone knows where Hillary's record stands. Anything that makes her looks good she ADVERTISES it to the media. But anything that is scandalous she withholds it ... like her tax returns, earmarks, and donors lists.

Now that she can't win democratically, she wants to destroy Obama's chances.

Mama4Obama   March 17th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

We wouldn't even be in this war if it weren't for people like Hillary Clinton voting for it. Her claim is absurd. She continues to allege that Obama is "all talk," but let me tell you something. She can write a 50,000-point plan on every issue every day of the week, but the end result will remain the same: a wicked hand cramp and a lot of wasted paper.

John   March 17th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Let me get this straight- she is saying that only she can end a war that she voted to start. This is a lady who has publicly stated that she thought a vote for the Iraq war resolution was a vote for more diplomacy. A lady who didn't bother to read the resolution, but instead chose to attend an administration briefing, and a lady who voted AGAINST the Levin amendment, which specifically called for more diplomacy. And she is saying that she is the only one who can end it? What, with nuclear weapons?

GWB   March 17th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Hillary, please give us some reasons why you are trustworthy. Everything you have claimed thus far you have not backed up.

You want to talk about all talk, show us the details of your records that back up your claims.

All of your records are under secret lock and key. We don't want any more excuses, we want you to give us some proof.

obamamama   March 17th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Seems like the Democrats are headed for another defeat if they nominate Obama. His actions don't match his flowery speeches. If he expect people to believe that in the 20 years of his relationship with the pastor, he had NEVER heard the pastor preach in such hateful and unpatriotic manner to the pulpit,then he must think that everyone have drank the same cool aid as his supporters.His church's disdain for other race and religion is one thing.but hatred for the country he aspires to lead is another.He is the disaster wainting to happen and no amount of AA support can save him in the south and the heartland where such rhetoric will never be forgotten nor forgiven.

Fernandez   March 17th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

How long is Barack going to beat this War vote., sure Clinton and 76 other Senators voted for the War. Barack claims he opposed the War in 2002,3 ,4 5,6 and 7, the questions is what did he do in opposition, make speeches. At least Hillary cast her vote in the Senate on Key issues compared to Baracks "present" or being busy running for the Presidency

Eugene (Texas)   March 17th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

The war in Iraq and a sagging economy are the two largest issues facing the next president of the USA. However, the media and others have turned attention away from issues to subject matters that pale in comparison. Concerning the war, thousands of American lives are at stake. The issue to stay the course or how to leave will affect America and Iraq for generations to come. McCain wants to continue Bush's failed plan and establish an American presence in Iraq for years to come. What happens after the additional soldiers are sent home (surge)? The insurgents are not stupid. Violence is down presently due to 180,000 American soldiers significantly outnumbering the insurgents. Its simple, the insugents will lay low until the soldiers leave then start back where they left off. On the other hand, Clinton and Obama talk of a systematic withdrawal that will eventually leave the Iraqis to fend for themselves which will ultimately result in a civil war. It is a quandry that is going to extremely difficult undertake. As voters, we need to hear what these candidates plan to inact to affect the war in Iraq and make a decision on which plan we can best live with, morally and financially. Also, neither of these candidates have stated how they plan to handle Al Queda (while dealing with Iraq), who originally attacked us on 9/11 and is currently our largest security threat. It is reported that Al Queda has established new bases in Afghanistan and is steadily growing stronger while we are being diverted by the Iraq war. Whether we leave Iraq or not, Al Queda still has to be dealt with and should have been the original target to defeat after 9/11.

JD   March 17th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

So it's back to going negative again...OK. I wasn't sure if we were in one of her negative phases, or one of her conciliatory phases. Now we know.

She's the only one who could bring the war to an end? How? By voting for the Resolution to Authorize the Use of United States Armed Forces Against Iraq again?

nmt   March 17th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Hillary,
releasing your taxes, your library papers, your donor lists etc, will make me believe what you say. Right now, i find it really hard to trust you. If your taxes, earmarks, library papers have nothing to hide...then please release, because this to me speaks of your integrity...and as a president i would like someone in the white house that i can trust...if you do not release now...Mccain can hardly wait to wipe you out? What are you hiding...it is the trust issue here...give me something to believe that your words are not just empty words...give me something that speaks to your integrity.....like all candidates...show me that washington is not protecting you for whatever reason.

kathy in ohio   March 17th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

many of us opposed the war but didnt have a vote and neither did obama how would he really have voted he cant even keep his stories straight now. he is inexperienced and definately cant handle washington yet. he cant even handle 8000 members of his church. face people he is just a minister himself you have not noticed that at his rallys. that is is career future.

james   March 17th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

For every pastor wright, there's 10 ferraro's, and 20 pastor hagee's. For every Rezco there is 20 norman shu's, and 10 keatings. Obama will win the nomination, and the general election. Once Mccain is "fully vetted" and his lobbyist ties are further investigated, and his flip flopping on issues is highlightd along with the biggest bombshell, that he gave up secret info to the vietcong, he will lose.

Corey   March 17th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

I'm don't think she's capable of ending the war anymore than any other candidate redeployment is a larger undertaking than deployment. YOU GUYS WHO ARE SO STUCK ON HILLARY AND/OR OBAMA NEED TO CUT IT OUT!!!! In the end, whether it's Hillary or Barack, you need to support your Democratic candidate and stopped acting like spoiled children. The future of this country, of this world is far more important than your foolish rantings and line drawings and pointless fighting on candidates. In the end their politics are a whole lot more similar than they are different. It's like choosing between Coke and Pepsi. Stop it guys and look at the bigger picture!!!!!

Jen   March 17th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

CLINTON CLAIMED SHE DIDN'T KNOW THAT BLACKWATER WAS GIVEN IMMUNITY FROM PROSECUTION

Clinton Claimed That She Didn't Know About A Provision That Gave Blackwater Immunity >From Prosecution In Iraq Because Of An Exemption After The US Invasion. "Clinton was asked about a statement she made… when criticizing the Bush administration's conduct in Iraq. She said she hadn't known that Blackwater USA, the military contractor accused of killing more than a dozen Iraqi civilians last month, had immunity from prosecution in Iraq because of an exemption approved soon after the US invasion. 'Maybe I should have known about it; I did not know about it,' she said." [Boston Globe, 10/11/07]

Jeff   March 17th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Hillary voted to authorize the use of force should diplomacy fail. Barack Obama gave a speech. His Illinois voting record looks like someone who plays dodgeball. Once he had his senate seat, he has voted exactly like Clinton. If he opposed the war so much, why vote the way he did? That doesn't sound like change we can believe in. He is not the anti war vote he would have you believe. There are those that believe Hillary was the Commander In Chief, The Weapons Inspector, the Secty of State, and the CIA. I wonder what people would have said about Hillary and being the Senator that represents NYC had Sadam actually had the WMD and deployed it in the middle of the city. Thank God, we probably wont ever know.

dj   March 17th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Hillary or Billary call it whatever you want..
Hillary is the best Presidental canidate..
And, she will win White House..
Let's all just remember who Started this War.. UUUMMMMM
that would be uuuuummmmmm bush uuuummmmmm..Wow sounds just him .. uuummmmm...

Go Hillary!!!
California Loves You!!!! and Bill..

edd   March 17th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

In HILLARY we trust, be it be in Iraq War, Economy & Healthcare!

It will be a big mistake if she looses this nomination, we need a strong candidate to lead us to progress again! We do not need a racist amateur with racist advisor who supported war in 2003, 2004, 2005.

Go HILLARY!

Scott Cadwell   March 17th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

“Senator Obama has said often that words matter. I strongly agree,” Clinton said.
...SINCE WHEN?! Wasn't your stance that speeches don't matter the basis of most of your attacks on him for the first part of this year? It is simply infuriating listening to this woman. She is the most duplicitous, conniving, and arrogant Democrat I've ever seen!

cc, Chicago   March 17th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

And Hillary, with all due respect, is voting for starting the war and then funding it showing an ability to end it????

Dave ND   March 17th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I suppose the haeavens will open up, angels will sing, and the war will just suddenly be over.

Please Obama, point out her hypocrisy here. Please!

Vickie   March 17th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I wish Obama would shut his mouth with all the half truths. Anyone with an IQ of at least 10 knows that when the war was voted on, it was supported because of lies and half truths from the Bush Adminstration..They have WMDs , they are trying to buy Nuclear material etc. Why doesn't Obama admit that he has voted over and over to contunie supporting the war financially.

Obama “will, of course, not rely on some plan that he’s crafted as a presidential candidate or a U.S. Senator.”

Enough said!!

End of Obama   March 17th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Obama supporters=Blind followers don't keep whining. Don't talk about what is History repeatedly. Obama was not even in senate. He is a lier. "He keeps saying that he voted against". We can always do overs.

She is the only candidate who can bring America and American image back which has been spoiled for a long time. She is a better candidate. She knows what she is talking. She is a fighter and a doer. Obama and their supporters are all whiners. They keep whining.

Jen   March 17th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Blackwater USA's First Federal Contract Was In 1998 – Under The Clinton Administration. At a House committee hearing on private contractor oversight, Blackwater USA counsel Andrew Howell was asked when his company received its first government contract. Howell replied, "I believe that was 1998." Rep. Chris Cannon (R-UT) inquired, "And that was under the Clinton administration?" Howell responded, "Yes, sir." [House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Hearing Transcript, 2/7/07]

Peg   March 17th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Hillary, so you expect "Us" to believe that you were agianst the war in 2002, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8; yet you voted to begin the war? Its just like you to tell a bold face lie and actually believe it and to get the American people to believe in this lie. If you have nothing to hide then release your earmarks and tax forms...Obama has, hes also busy on the campaign trail. Get your people, we all know you have them to put your taxes and earmarks together. Get with it Hillary's people...show what she has been hiding behind.
Obama 2008 for President!!

Jim   March 17th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Please Hillary............tell me what makes you qualified. You Clinton's have talked out of both sides of your mouth since Bill and your "Laurel and Hardy" act in the Governor's house in Arkansas. Nothing but drama, lies, sex, and corruption have followed you both since those days.

mary from tn   March 17th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

I cannot imagine 4 more years of this war with John McCain. Every day our country loses as we lose money & our soldiers. If this continues, we will be bankrupt like the Soviet Union. I believe that Hillary has the experience to help us safely get out of this.

Political Jonze   March 17th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Hillary will only end the war if her Dubai backers want it ended.

jp/michigan   March 17th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Obama has flip/flopped on the Iraq war since 2002. Voicing against the war , was a political ploy to get into the US House of Representative, with failed. Dick Durbin got in the senate with his distaste for the war. From 2002 through 2008 , Obama states one thing and does another, voted to continue Bushes plank check for the war, now conveniently he is against it again. Obama seems to be a conventionally opportunistic politician. , who has put together a good political career and a terrific presidential campaign, but there is not much audacity of hope there. There is a calculation of ambition , construction of artifice , mixed in with a dash of deceit.

Jay MN   March 17th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

How doe she have the audacity to make these lofty claims and at the same time claim no one else could?

Video Guy   March 17th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

She is not qualified. Being First Lady and having old Billy make a fool of you, does entitle you to be Commander-in-chief.

George   March 17th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Hillary will never give up she and her husband lie so much they even believe what they say .
Just remember Hillary will get the nomination no matter what the people wish and then we will have more problems . What is she going to do if we get hit in the USA again ,Nothing like Bill did when the WTC got hit in 1993 ? or just start crying on TV .

B   March 17th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Yes SHE Can!
Say no to the Obamabots and think for yourself.

Hillary is the most qualified candidate even if Obama's reverend doesn't think so. The Obama/Wright Campaign is doomed to fail.

Hillary Clinton '08

Chuck   March 17th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Man, after Obama's pastor racist comments most of the Obama fans had nothing to say and now its back to bashing Hillary.
She is the best person for the job and Obama need's to keep up the damage control.

Stephanie   March 17th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Hillary just needs to withdraw now before the democrats lose the race to McCain. She is the one dividing us.

Caroll   March 17th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Obama bores me. He is all talk and no substance. So is his pastor. They belong together, but, not in the White House.

CW in DC   March 17th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Who.....I'm confused here:

“Senator Obama has said often that words matter. I strongly agree,” Clinton said.

At first it was words/speeches don't matter. Hillary, are you toying with my emotions again?!

M. S. Indiana   March 17th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Remember a speech is just words... Her voting records say something else..

Jeff - Plainfield, IL   March 17th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Hillary's 154 years of service in the Marine Corps prior to her 15 straight terms in the Senate are proof enough for me that she has both the experience and the judgeme-what? You're telling me she has, literally, the least experience of the 3 remaining candidates? Wow...that's really the only platform she has to run on (other than forced profit-feeding of health insurance companies).

I really cannot imagine a world where Hillary Clinton would be the best equipped for anything, let alone ending a war. She was too weak to leave her husband when the whole world found out he was cheating on her. This does not make her a strong woman, it makes her a co-dependent, poor role-model anti-woman.

Tom   March 17th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

when are you people going to realize the Empty suit wasnt in the SENATE to vote for the war or against it??
Wake up and smell the roses.

Mr. Empty Suit is going down with the rest of this Brethren.

Leslie   March 17th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Senator Clinton is exactly right on this issue. There is a great article in the April edition of Commentary (available on the website as well), that takes a very close look at Obama's relationship to the war in Iraq. There was also a great op-ed in the Washington Post last week on Senator Obama's nebulous relationship with the war in Iraq.

Suffiice it to say Obama has not been consistent on the war in Iraq and Senator Clinton is exactly right to say that his own position has commonly shifted with the ebbs and flows of political opinion in accordance with his own political ambition.

I trust Hillary more to devise a reasonable strategy in withdrawing from Iraq. She has the experience on the Armed Services Committee in the Senate and has the support of many military leaders.

John P   March 17th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Obama has been consistent in his opposition to the war. Hillary on the other hand not only voted for the war she convinced the vast majority of democrats to vote for the war. Now she is opposed 6 years later. Hillary needs to step aside. She can't win this race statistically, if she stays in there will have to be a convention. She is losing, after all the states vote she will still be losing. For the unity of the party the Democrats need a leader. HILLARY STEP DOWN NOW.

Gary of El Centro, Ca   March 17th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Hillary doesn't have the standing the slam anyone on the war. End of story.

Independent   March 17th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Clintons are shameless. If they had had the presidential-material leadership in 2002 and been anti-war then, we would never have been in where we are today. They could not end the war then, how can we trust them to end the war now?

If you have been opportunitistic in taking every political manoeuvre for reaching the presidency, now it's the time that you take the consequence.

Craig   March 17th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Hillary Clinton, Ready to mislead on any issue from day one.

laura, CA   March 17th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

this candidate is making good use of this several week hiatus until the next primaries. obama's news is about green stickers and demanding tax returns.
clinton's news is about the failing economy and the war, which is in direct relation to our economic woes.
That's a presidential candidate whereas Obama is an inflammatory candidate. Clinton is taking action on what she knows. Where's Obama?

Jason Ralicki   March 17th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Hillary Clinton HAS taken responsibility for her vote. That was especially clear in the last debate. Obama is still slinging that message around, that she has never taken responsibility for her vote and it is categorically untrue.

It seems to me that Obama is the type of politician he says he dislikes so much. I'm just sick of Obama and all of his rhetoric.

It is very strange for me to say this, because I have always voted democrat. But if Obama turns out to be the democratic nominee, I am going to vote McCain in the general election. It's really very sad, but I don't think Obama has enough experience to lead our nation. And McCain, at least, has a solid track record. I trust, and like him, much more than Obama.

In the meantime, I am hoping and praying that Hillary makes it all the way to the top. I am always inspired by her intelligence and ideas. Go Hillary!

Nobillary Andobama   March 17th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

The only end this lady is qualified to talk about is the one where her head has been for the last few years.

As wrong as it is to leave Iraq before they are able to comprehensively secure themselves, at least Borack's stance on the issue has been consistent. The same can not be said with the Billary.

"HOPE" is not a method....only a nice sound bite

Independent   March 17th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Hillary, please provide me tax returns, donater lists to their charity, donater lists to the presidential library and earmarks so that Iam sure there will not be any additions to the litany of clinton scandals.

Lee From Treasure Island Florida   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Still waiting for her release of their Tax's, Donors list for Clinton Library, and her WhiteHouse Papers...that's the real story CNN.
Her voting for the war in Iraq is well known, her support to use force in Iran is also well known...so she is a flip flopper. But can we as tax payers please how honest she is? Please do your job as journalist and ask the hard questions.

Marc   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Sorry, Hillary, but u have no credibility on this issue at all. You supported the war. Your supporters are naive and feeble minded, they actually believe u were against the war from the beginning. Stick a fork in Hillary, she done! She lied, lied. lied...Hillary is a liar!

Candi   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Hillary how can you end the war when you voted for it, or was you thinking about Bill that day. Why are you bashing Obama about he can't end the war. You can't end it either. Hillary you are saying things that you know has no meaning for you. Confused and not sure what the next move will be? Stop bashing Obama and maybe people will believe you okay.

Independent in IA   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Yes, Obama opposed the war during the years he mentioned, however, when it actually came to doing something about it he totally abrogated his responsibility by either not being present to vote or voting 'present'. In other words, his 'words' mean absolutely nothing.

dan   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Yes, she helped get us into this mess, I sure do expect her to do her part to get us out.

She can ensure the senate does the right thing while Obama is president

therealist   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

The war is over. What is she going to do to win the peace? Why hasn't she been doing it for the last 5 years??

Cappi in SC   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Since she gave authorization that essentially started the war that is now approaching 4,000 lives claimed, she should fight to end it! But I don't believe a word she has to say – only that she will say anything to get nominated.

I think first she should show us she is credible by disclosing her tax returns for the last 6 years, her earmarks for the last 6 years, and how her time was spent while in the White House. If she does this, then maybe we'll finally see what she has been so unwilling to show the American people. If there is nothing to hide, then we will start believing what she has to say!

Chewbacca   March 17th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

What is Hillary's plan to end the war?

Ron Paul is the only one that provided a plan during the debates that I remember.

Eyong Ebot,Lawrenceville,GA   March 17th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

hillary,you don't give the president a blank check ,then act surprise when he catches it."I was against the for before I voted for it."how does that sound.

HomoSapien   March 17th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

OK, I am confused.

Hillary – do words matter or don't they matter?? I can't figure out by listening to you.

Get the hell out of the race and give the Dems a chance to take the White House. We are SICK of you Clintons.

Joe   March 17th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

End a war that she helped start? I doubt that. The only way to get the US out of Iraq and still maintain any credibility in the world community is to elect a President who was opposed to the war from the start. That is Senator Obama.

Jack   March 17th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Obama would send troops back to Iraq.... how is that getting us out of Iraq?

An Agnostic Democrat   March 17th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

This from the woman who marched in lockstep with Bush, Cheney, Rice and Rumsfeld until ... She started campaigning, then realized what the correct position was, turned on a dime (as she is so adept at doing) to change her position and start talking out of the other side of her mouth. We ain't buyin' the lyin' goods, Hillary!

Mike   March 17th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

yea, CNN was Obama's supporter but CNN realized what a mistake they were gonna make supporting such a liar. Now CNN is on Hillary's side. Good for you CNN. We all make mistakes and it is nevre late to fix them. When America is going to relaize that electing Obama would be the biggest mistake ever, he has so much hate is his heart, I can not imagine what Obama could do with some power if he gets elected.

David Snider   March 17th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

The more I see this Woman, and the more I hear hear words.

The more I want to puke!

Shirley, Silicon Valley, CA   March 17th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Hillary is not trustworthy! She say anything and do anything to get her personal victory. The war will end one way or another. She definitely is not the only one who can do it!

Hillary has been so divisive and deceitful. She has been slash and burn on her trail. With her in politics, this country will be more divided and dysfunctional just like in the past so many years in Washington!

tmd1104   March 17th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Hillary and Bill should just go down with the sinking ship like the rest of the rats. She can't win the nomination so she will do whatever it takes to steal it.

Boomer:White Female Supporter for Obama   March 17th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

CNN keeps repeating the out of context clips of Wright's speech. The press, if it's doing its job of reporting the news and not sensationalizing, should do a more intensive look at this man's history.

Rusty Myers   March 17th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

I hope this is not what she meant! I learned long ago that when anyone tells me they are the only one who can accomplish something I'd better look for someone else to do the job. There is no magic and there is and will always be someone better at anything.

Nattie Karma   March 17th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Well said Charlie,
If Powers' comments were rejected and denounced, why should they become good to Hillary? Maybe she agrees with her words on her being a "monster"

Bill   March 17th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

I understand that the vote in 2002 was hijacked, Hillary voted to give a power to the president. Most members of Congress did this as a show of unity. None were prepared when W started the war machine. The vote on Iran was made after understanding that a similar vote had already started a war. Yeat Hillary voted yes again. As a veteran, I can not support anyone who is apparently fooled twice.

Damian   March 17th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Hillary has a point. Obama was not in the Senate when the vote was put up. And he has not voted against funding it since he has been there. Obama also has not championed on any positions since he got into the Senate and has not come out as vocally against the war until he started to run for president. At least Hillary backs her positions.

A. Harrison   March 17th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

"Maynard", that's not ego, that's the strength and force we need to get things done in this Country and in the World.

Speeches vs Solutions.

Hillary 2008!

A. Harrison   March 17th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Well said Hillary.

Hillary 2008!

Patriot   March 17th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

She NEVER said she was sorry for her shameful vote on the war.

And she only started speaking out against it when it became the cool thing to do, when polls showed in 2005 that a vast majority of Americans were against it.

Her supporters never even mention the Iraq war on blogs or in conversation- they almost seem in denial that it is even going on.

Nattie Karma   March 17th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I am afraid Hillary and Bill should address their marriage issues. We do not want to start fighting another Monica battle.

Go Obama

I used to be a Democrat   March 17th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I'm so glad I'm not a Democrat anymore. Both Hillary and Obama are total hippocrits. Their supporters are even worse.

I rest easy at night knowing that neither Obama or Hillary will be President in 2009.

PA   March 17th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

You drove the truck into the ditch.

Why should we believe you when you are refusing to release the White House records of the experiece that you claim to have?

We are interviewing for the job of President and we are asking that you provide the papers so that we can see if you are honest.

Please release the White House papers, your earmarks, your tax returns, and the donors to the Clinton Library.

Leah DiMarco, TX   March 17th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Give me a break – she voted FOR the war!!!

The only thing Clinton has been doing is giving speeches!

Enough with the lies and the spin Hillary it is time for you to GO HOME!

Karen   March 17th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Why is the media still talking about Senator Obama's pastor? I didn't watch any political coverage this weekend hoping to avoid this ridiculous story and it's the first thing I see after turning on the TV. Of all the issues we should be focusing on in this important campaign, why are we spending so much time on Obama's pastor!? I bet no one knows anything about the religious affiliation or pastors of Hillary Clinton and John McCain but we know all about Obama's pastor. Who cares? I haven't been to a single church where there wasn't something said or practiced that I don't believe in or support but that doesn't stop me from going because they are ALL like that. Let's stop highlighting the irrelevant statements of those who are not the candidates themselves and get back to focusing on them and their positions on issues that are important and relevant to the American people.

Rob, Minneapolis, MN   March 17th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

The hypocrisy of Hillary Clinton knows no bounds.

Bob, Lyons Oregon   March 17th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

This woman will stoop to anything. She has a very high opinion of herself. She is behind in delagates, she is behind in popular vote, she is behind in states won, she is behind in campaign finance, other then she is getting alot of money from the establishment, pacs and lobbiests. She is not at all realistic.

Go Obama.

Dee from Texas   March 17th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

If Hilliary thinks she can win the presidency with all the trash she has dished out – she is crazy. I really would like for her to get the nomination so that the Republicans could dish her like she is dishing Obama.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   March 17th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

The old girl has gone delusional?

She isn't even certain how it got started or for why?

How can she possibly expect to end it?

Wonder if we will add the term Commander-In-Chieftress–or just call her "your Majesty".

ANTI CLINTONS   March 17th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

She isn't the one for anything! she lies. She wants Obama to be second fiddle to her when he is winning the race, that has never happend before in this countries history when we were picking a new presdient, but lo and behold...the Clintons are trying to be slick, they think the presidency is their destiny, it should just be given to them becasue it is theirs!

What a low life jerk! She is a piece of work alright, no Obama can win without her and she couldn't stop anything in her life.

C. Sharp   March 17th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

. . .I watched Senator Clinton's speech on the war. She appeared bitter
and reminiscent of the same old Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton, Bush
policies. Divisive and accusatory. Getting the country nowhere. This is
not someone that I want to turn on the television and see everyday. We need a fresh face, fresh ideas, and a fresh start. Senator Clinton is not the only one who can stop the war. Who is she kidding?

Obama 08.

Mark B   March 17th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

... and remind me again, who voted to authorize this war? I believe it was Mrs. Clinton.

And who exercised judgment "not" to authorize this war? Believe that was Mr. Obama. Clearly, fully prepared to answer the phone at 3:00 am and to deliver the appropriate response.

But Hillary, are you now "fully prepared" to release your tax returns, Bill's White House papers, and the New York State earmarks?

sunny   March 17th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

She voted for the very war that she now claims can only be ended by her. Yeah... that makes sense. Will the Clintons ever leave the political scene? Wonder if Vegas has that line in the near future...

OBAMA '08

barry   March 17th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

“But giving speeches alone won’t end the war and making campaign promises you might not keep certainly won’t end it. In the end the true test is not the speeches a president delivers, it’s whether the president delivers on the speeches.”

I'm sorry, has Hillary already won the presidential race and has been making presidential decisions for the last few months or something? She makes it seem as if she's already made good on the promises she's made in her boring speeches.

Oh but her amazing foreign policy experience as the President's wife right? I'm pretty sure those have been debunked as exaggerations at best.

Gilbert   March 17th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

May be she can; after all she helped drive the bus into the ditch as Sen. Obama says.

charlie   March 17th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Hillary did vote for the war, he opposed it. She is junpinmg on the badwagon now that she knows that the country is against it.

Since when is she concerned with what Samantha Powers has to say? – Samantha also called Hillary a "Monster" – I bet that is not part of her new stump speech.

Betsy   March 17th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

She IS the only candidate that can make that happen.

You go girl!

Hillary '08!!!!!

henrie alabama   March 17th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

THIS WOMAN IS TALKING ABOUT THE WAR THAT SHE VOTED FOR AND NOW SHE WANTS TO END IT. SORRY MRS. CLINTON YOU ARE WITH MR. BUSH YOU VOTED FOR THIS WAR WHY SHOULD WE GIVE YOU A CHANCE TO BE THE NEXT PRESIDENT. GO BACK HOME TO NEW YORK

Disappointed with BOTH   March 17th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

I used to support Hillary Clinton. I even voted for her when she was running for Senator. Now that she is running for president I've taken a closer look at her record and all the scandals that everyone in the media has and has not talked about. When Obama won Iowa and started leading her in delegates I began to listen to him and I started to back him because I believed in his message and sincerity. I still do, but I have my reservations. Now that this race has brought out so much ugliness between the candidates and those who support them, I no longer want to consider myself Democrat. Both of them are the typical politics that we see everyday and are disgusted with. It will probably cost the Democratic Party the nomination. I'm going to switch to independent and vote for Nader in November; at least he's always honestly fought for the little guy against corporations and the politics of Washington.

Luanne   March 17th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Ms. Clinton has absolutely no credibility on this issue.

lisa north carolina   March 17th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

i am tired of hil lying – slanting the details and making for a rocky presentation of truth. HOW in God's green earth is she the ONLY president that can end the war? AND to say the one guy that said NO to the WAR, just thought of ending a war he never EVER supported since he was running for president sounds so close to retarded to me i wonder if she is wearing a helmet and sitting in the front of a short bus. no disrespect to those actually handicapped and not acting like one that is disabled on TV to get votes. whew!

maya   March 17th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Obama can not keep relying on this ONE TALKING POINT that he has in his thin resume.

It is becoming more and more apparent that he is a PACKAGED CANDIDATE who very skillfully took the easy middle ground (voting "not present" on tough issues, NEVER took a hard BOLD STANCE against Iraq war ONCE FINALLY in the US Senate when he could have made a difference IF he WAS SO STRONGLY AGAINST IT, doesn't promote strong policy agenda for AA despite having 80-90% support, doesn't proudly say his middle name and say that he wouldn't care if someone said he was muslim-even if he isn't-because there is nothing wrong with being muslim...I could go on and on...)

He is NOT BOLD NOT AUDACIOUS NOT TOUGH and NOT VIABLE.

Alice Brian   March 17th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Obama is a liar; I agree with Senator Clinton, he won’t end the war...

emmanuel Ray   March 17th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

i agreeeeeeeeeeee and I also think she is the only one who can fix the economy........after the whole Obama Pastor thing , it just tuned Obama off.........................I think Obama is a great guy maybe , but still dont know him all that well and maybe he needs to have more time to evolve

Chicagoway   March 17th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I dont see why anyone should think that Clinton would do more in the way of getting troops out than any other candidate. What has she done so far regarding the troops and war other than refusing to admit that she voted to authorize the war? People seem to forget that Obama uncovered the horrible conditions at Walter Reed hospital. Republicans are always preaching to support the troops but they didnt seem to notice that Walter Reed provided treatment that was well below average. I would rather trust someone who has a history of actually caring about the troops. Obama is more prepared to end the war because he has shown that he actually cares about the fate of our troops. How many more ridiculous statements does Hillary have left in her?

Mike, Arkansas   March 17th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

CNN are Hillary lovers.

Well she has and will make speeches of Promises like she is right now and wont finish them. Just like all the speeches made for the Clinton era that were never done.

End the war you voted for? Fix NAFTA that your husband put into effect. End the era of poor economically USA that you put into motion by driving all our jobs overseas? Yeah keep on yappin!

I am tired of the Clinton mistakes then the turn around that they are the only one to fix them... fix them how? With more mistakes that is going to hurt our country?

Keep on preaching Hillary. You dont have my ears at all. Ive heard so many things and seen nothing since before the year 2000. Ive seen your pockets fill up. Ive seen criminals released by Bill. Ive seen political favors.

Give it up!

maynard   March 17th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

hillary is full of it, what makes her think shes the only one. talk about
egoism. however she had one hell of a teacher. thanks to him and others we are in the mess we,re in today

Gerry   March 17th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Well, before Hillary gets a chance to do anything, she needs to release her taxes, donater lists to their charity, donater lists to the presidential library, earmarks; and cross her fingers and hope the 128 missing pages from the Garrett report are not released.

Then she needs to tell voters how she expects to win, with Obama taking a 169 elected delegate lead over the weekend.

With 516 delegates left, she'd need to win 427 or 83% of the remaining delegates to catch him, which is not happening.

It's past time for the super delegates to quit fiddling while Rime burned and get on side with the Obama campaign now, or kiss the November election goodbye.

Steph, Philadelphia   March 17th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Is this the same war that she help to start?? I don't this so, miss Clinton. To end this war we don't need either you, McCain or Bush who started it in the first place. We need Barack Obama.

Will   March 17th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

by "end the war" does she mean attack iran, or just keep funneling hundreds of millions in ear marks to military industrial contractors in NYState?

Sante   March 17th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Very Smart Lady!
Obama- soft spoken manipulator!

suzy   March 17th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

GREAT SPEECH TODAY HILLARY!!!!!!!

AND GREAT PEOPLE BACKING YOU!!!!!!

GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!

Jessica, MI   March 17th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

The audacity of this woman is breathtaking.

Hillary: I helped get us into this horribly misguided war! so...uh...i'm best qualified to help us get back out of it too!

Dennis   March 17th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

I can't resist: Hillary now says words matter, but they didn't about a month ago.

I can't see how Clinton has any special abilities beyond Obama's to end the war in Iraq. Obama has said that we need to be careful in withdrawing. He'll need to consult with the generals on how to make an orderly withdrawal. Of course, what Hillary isn't saying is that she'll do the exact same thing. Neither one of them will just issue an order that says, "we're getting out today, pack your things."

Hillary is fond of saying that it is important to draw distinctions, but the the distinction she is drawing here is pointless.

TheLeftNut   March 17th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Yes. Hillary will go to Iraq and sing Coumbaya. Everyone will keel over in pain and submit to whatever she says.

Hillary all the way !   March 17th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Hillary is by war the most qualified to be Commander in Chief.

I believe that she will end the war in Iraq and be prompt about doing so.

@americans   March 17th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

yeah, Billary can end the war by voting for it. gimme a break!

NEVEROBAMA   March 17th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

YES SHE WILL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

THERE IS NO BETTER CANDIDATE THAN SENATOR HILLARY
CLINTON. WAKE UP AMERICA – OBAMA IS FINISHED WITH HIS REV. WRIGHT SCANDAL.

HE MIGHT LEAD IN DELEGATES BUT WE WILL SEE HOW THE TABLES TURN IN THE UPCOMING CONTESTS!!

VOTE HILLARY
VOTE HILLARY
VOTE HILLARY

Grif   March 17th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

And Bash Obama.

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