April 11, 2008
Posted: April 11th, 2008 10:03 PM ET

From
CNN

Watch Sen. Obama defend his controversial remarks Friday night in Indiana.

TERRE HAUTE, Indiana (CNN) –- Barack Obama was forced Friday to defend comments he made at a recent fundraiser where he described some Pennsylvanians as "bitter."

Obama came under fire from Hillary Clinton and John McCain for his remarks just weeks before the Pennsylvania primary.

"When I go around and I talk to people, there is frustration, and there is anger, and there is bitterness," Obama began. "I want to make a point here."

"[Pennsylvanians are] frustrated and for good reason, because for the last 25 years they’ve seen jobs shipped overseas, they’ve seen their economies collapse. They have lost their jobs, they’ve lost their pensions. They’ve lost their health care."

Obama then said that politicians from both sides of the aisle have promised answers but that "nothing ever happens."

"So…they don’t vote on economic because they don’t expect anybody’s going to help them," Obama said, adding that they end up voting on issues that include gun rights, gay marriage, and faith.

He then directly hit Clinton and McCain, mocking their earlier attacks.

"Here’s what’s rich," Obama said. "Sen. Clinton says, 'Well I don’t think people are bitter in Pennsylvania. I think Barack’s being condescending.' John McCain says, 'Oh, how could he say that? How could he say people are bitter? He’s obviously out of touch with people. '"

"Out of touch?" Obama said. "I mean, John McCain, it took him three tries to finally figure out that the home foreclosure crisis was a problem and to come up with a plan for it, and he’s saying I’m out of touch?"

"Sen. Clinton voted for a credit card sponsored bankruptcy bill that made it harder for people to get out of debt after taking money from the financial services companies, and she says I’m out of touch?"

He concluded his argument by telling the audience that it is, in fact, the opposite.

"No. I’m in touch. I know exactly what’s going on. I know what’s going on in Pennsylvania, I know what’s going on in Indiana, [and] I know what’s going on in Illinois. People are fed up."

Clinton spokesman Phil Singer has since responded to Obama's words on his remarks.

“Instead of apologizing for offending small town America, Sen. Obama chose to repeat and embrace the comments he made earlier this week," Singer wrote in a statement. "It’s unfortunate that Sen. Obama didn’t say he was sorry for what he said. Americans are tired of a President who looks down on them - they want a President who will stand up for them for a change. The Americans who live in small towns are optimistic, hardworking and resilient. They deserve a president who will respect them.”

As has McCain's spokesman, Tucker Bounds.

"Instead of apologizing to small town Americans for dismissing their values, Barack Obama arrogantly tried to spin his way out of his outrageous San Francisco remarks. Only an elitist who attributes religious faith and gun ownership to bitterness would think that tax cuts for the rich include families who make $75,000 per year. Only an elitist would say that people vote their values only out of frustration. Barack Obama thinks he knows your hopes and fears better than you do. You can't be more out of touch than that."

–CNN's Chris Welch

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • John McCain • Pennsylvania


Geri   April 11th, 2008 11:54 pm ET

Once again Obama blames McCain & Clinton for his loose mouth. He said it, they didn't. As far as being "rich" goes, Clintons tax returns were for 6 years...do the math. John McCains wife has the money, not him. Obama and her nastiness Michelle had a healthy income so knock it off with the comments. I have never seen such "bitter" and hateful people as the Obama supporters are.

Obama Mama   April 11th, 2008 11:53 pm ET

I'm pretty bitter that the Clinton's won't go away!

Ricardo Williams   April 11th, 2008 11:53 pm ET

If you're fed up "Shout for Obama." Thank God Cnn has given us an outlet to be heard. We are fed up and you can take that to the bank.

Ron   April 11th, 2008 11:53 pm ET

Yes, Obama is right that people do get angry and bitter when their jobs are out sourced, especially when you have to train the people who will be doing your job. Yes, we become bitter when health care makes you choose between your spouse medicine or the mortgage. Yes, we become bitter when you have to get your house out of foreclosure and lose your equity. Yes, we become bitter when you have not had a raise in 6 years and the price of gas is more than three dollars a gallon and you're still making payments on your truck.
It appears that politicians are too wealthy to feel the squeeze and they can't relate to what I'm feeling. Yes, I want to blame some one but who?

Ron
Dallas, TX

John   April 11th, 2008 11:53 pm ET

The truth shall set you free but the clintons and truth dont go together
go keep up the good work stay strong OBAMA we the people are with you. BARAK THE TRUTH OBAMA

white woman for Obama   April 11th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

Obama is amazing! Clinton has no clue what is going on..what is this thing called truth? what does that mean? that would be Hillary. She and Bill have no idea what truth is. Sit back and watch a tremendous leader , and honest "tell it ;like it s" kind of guy,help this country get real. Make progress. He is amazing! I just hope that America gets its chance to celebrate a change that will be the beginning of real politics. Real goverment. Real people. Vote for change !

Oleg, CA   April 11th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

Do they (Hillary & McCain) want to say that people are happy?
They are really out of touch. Instead of feeling terribly guilty for the Iraq war, they chose to run for office and say something. One is from almost royal family, and another – well, pro-Bush.
So, if you are not fun of government run by families, and if you are not pro-Bush, and if you do not feel jolly from Iraq war – you do not really have choice here.

Obama 2008

Paula   April 11th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

Looks like Barack has gone from the Audacity of Hope to the Audacity of Hate - unfortunate because he had seemed like he was getting away from the fear-mongering style of politics that are so divisive to us as a people.

Kevin   April 11th, 2008 11:49 pm ET

Maybe it is condescending. But that doesn't make it untrue.

OlvrWhit   April 11th, 2008 11:45 pm ET

Obama was wrong...you can't admit it.. You guys jump on Hillary for any small thing, but Obama can do no wrong.Please...its obvious that you all have been snowed.

Ivan (D-NY)   April 11th, 2008 11:45 pm ET

It's funny that the closer we get to the Pennsylvania primary, Mrs. Clinton chooses to use dirty tactics to gain momentum. Americans should be asking why is it that she feels the need to attack another democrat in this fashion. Her campaign is actually siding with the republicans, why doesn't she just endorse John McCain, if this is the only manner in which she can run her campaign? We all know that politicians have to try to keep everyone happy; I honestly believe that Obama gives the most honest responses of all the presidential candidates. That's probably why it's easier for them to mount an attack against him, they need to run an honest campaign and argue the issues and present how they would tackle those issues. I'm tired of this kindergarten name calling; this issue is real and affects real lives.

clintons out of control   April 11th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

yes, go Obama, do not let the clinton machine scare you away, as they have done with every single person in the DNC.........

Yes We Can............

Geofrey   April 11th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

I am bitter and angry. Finally, a politician who understands that.

A&A   April 11th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

OBAMA=G W BUSH...cocky arrogant, non apologetic...

truth be told   April 11th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

OBAMA is right.

The truth hurts sometimes.... But at least he's not misspeaking.
To tell like it is is Honesty not condescendence

PRESIDENT OBAMA I RESPECT YOUR HONESTY

Richard   April 11th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

The people who are considering the "bitter" statement as condescending are just simply ignorant. No wonder they are easily fooled by Hillary. She will continue to make the big bucks and keep you all in poverty.

walter tichana PA   April 11th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

Im from PA and I am BITTER about losing my job to Nafta and China I am going to vote for Obama....By the way can we have that Obama Girl to take away this bitterness and frustration...

Richard   April 11th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

The people who are considering "bitter" statement as condescending are just simply ignorant. No wonder they are easily fooled by Hillary. She will continue to make the big bucks and keep you all in poverty.

jay   April 11th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

Obama speaks truth,,,,something Clinton and McCain cant relate to.
He understands how struggling Americans feel.

Orlando   April 11th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

Just watched the Situation room portion with Gloria, Jack, Jeffery, and Wolf discussing the Clinton and McCain campaigns comment's about Senator Obama remarks. It was balanced. CNN rocks!

Tennessee   April 11th, 2008 11:41 pm ET

Ignorance is bliss and Obama supporters are very happy people

Monty   April 11th, 2008 11:41 pm ET

Afraid he is not. The Force is STRONG within him.

Obama 08

George   April 11th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

Hillary needs to remove her rose colored galsses. When you can't afford to take your wife and kids to the movies , of course you are bitter and angry. Obama speaks hte truth!

Erik   April 11th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

I'm bitter AND angry. While I'm still hopeful, if we continue on this current course, things will not get any better. Our country needs fundamental change. People who have it good now, of course they don't want change and they're going to attack Obama for this remark and try to distort it. But he is absolutely right. I don't want just new faces and a shuffling of the chairs. The way the game is played in Washington must fundamentally change.

EvA   April 11th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Obama just OWNED McClinton! Let's see what they have to say now.

BW, Dallas   April 11th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Amen.

Teacher   April 11th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Why doesn't Mr. Obama ask his Harvard advisers how to respond to calling the people in Pennsylvania "bitter" because they lost their jobs due to no fault of their own? I am sure the Harvard cronies he largely surrounds himself with will come up with an answer he can spin.

Obama08 but...   April 11th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Okay, here we have 3 folks running for office. One is the Republican nominee, who is ancient and promising war and knows nothing of the economy. Second, is a woman who is married to an expresident that was impeached, that says what she wants (mispeaking, having folks fired for talking about her daughter, changing mind about war, accusing right wings of conspiracies, for NAfTA, not for NAFTA,), telling heart felt stories about this person and that person she met along the campaign trail to get votes, not to mention beginning every other sentence with "You know...". Last we have a man that calls it likes he sees it whether we like the truth or not. How is one supposed to change a mindset of a nation that is so fed up with their government and needing some kind of solution unless we get real??? McCain is democrat in sheeps clothing and Hillary is Republican in democrat clothing. Although Republicans need Obama to loose so they can defeat Hillary in Novemeber, and defeat her they will. Wake up America.

cnn never posts my comments. any bets they won't post this either???

J   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

Thank you Barack Obama! You will make the best President we have ever had. This folks, is called the truth.
Anyone who suggests that economic hard times don't provoke "bitterness" is the one who's out of touch.

Spin Mr. Bounds? Your statement is spin. That's what spin is.

"Only an elitist who attributes religious faith and gun ownership to bitterness would think that tax cuts for the rich include families who make $75,000 per year"

This from some political strategist who spends hours every day carefully crafting his speech full of trigger words and deceptions.

If America can't handle the truth, it does not deserve Barack Obama.

Jon, Los Angeles   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

Obama is right! The people are bitter for losing their jobs through NAFTA and Hillary, Bill and McCain always laugh to the bank. They don't feel the pain that the ordinary Joe is feeling after losing his job and buying gas for almost $4 a gallon. People are M-A-A-A-D!

Hillary is really desperate!

Michael Mee   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

This is funny because Clinton and McCain are misplaying this soooooooooo very badly.

sylvia l. peters   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

I'm an angry African American senior citizen who lives in a community outside of Knoxville, TN. My fixed income is being taxed to the maximum. Instead of going out for dinner tonight, I went to the local grocer, and spent $68 for food that use to cost $34.

We've worked more than 45 years, yet we can barely make it on our pension income, savings, and small social security.

I paid almost as much this evening, for a tank of gasoline, as I did for food that will last us two weeks because my careful planning. I'm disturbed and upset by the fact that after serving as a public school educator for many years, I still have to be careful about how I spend money.

To accuse Senator Obama of belittling small town America is a figament of your corporate imagination. He's telling the truth about small, medium, and big towns in America. The cost of living in this nation has become outrageous.

Sadly, you the media will dig, and dig, and dig until white people everywhere are convinced that Senator Obama is an elite Harvard graduate who simply doesn't care about small people. How dare you do this. Your spin is so far from the truth of his remarks that it's painful to listen to commentaries on CNN.

Senator Barack Obama is man of integrity that speaks for Americans throughout the country. His roots are grounded in small town, urban, and muticultural America. His thinking represents a new kind of political will. One that seeks change, honesty and truth telling. His comments about small town people in Pennsylvania are as truthful as those residents who indicate that they just can't vote for an African American.

Senators Clinton, Mc Cain, and the American press never imagined that a bi-cultural American man would rise to challenge them for the highest postion in the country. What's really sad is to watch the manipulation of the press to inflame the innermost fears of White Americans with its incessant comments regarding the inappropriateness of some of the Senator's remarks.

I am saddened by the thoughts that ... you the media cannot believe that this man, chosen for these times, has to cope with your lunacy and racism. You the media who are constantly viewing every morphographic sound that he makes for word particles that can be spun into an afront of white people. You should be collectively ashamed of yourselves to present such biased and inflammatory views to Whites in Pennsylvania regarding the Senator's remarks. You the press are playing to their base existence, and inability to carefully analyze comments made by others.

Your remarks, comments, and jaded insights are about nothing but fear, fear, fear. You the press with your spin are the cause of this nation becoming less than it can be. Your collective resistance to people of color are some of the causes that have turned this nation of optimistic believers into a hopless group of cynics.

You are killing the dream of many Black and White citizens to have an African American president of the country by your constant denigration of every word the Senator speaks. Please take the time to do some careful analyses of comments before you bring them forth to be publicly debated

Antonio Blanco-Gilmore   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

To Whom It May Concern:

Is the Clinton campaign serious about their recent comment–"they want a President who will stand up for them for a change. The Americans who live in small towns are optimistic, hardworking and resilient. They deserve a president who will stand up for them for a change." Hasn’t Barack Obama message been all about change? If this is the best hope of ‘Clinton and McCain' winning the presidency and the lack of sound judgment by taking out of context his speeches by reading between the lines of a hopeful president than maybe both McCain and the Clinton campaign are feeling the pressure of a future president who is truly sincere to his voters and most importantly honest to them. This is what the American people want!

Antonio

Sam from Tucson   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

hell yes we are bitter! We are sick of the last eight years that destroyed our economy, drove up costs and threatens our job security.

McCain? Good Grief, I live in Arizona. They are shutting down schools, giving teachers pink slips, not insuring homes because the value dropped so low, closing after school care programs that will mean cost hike in sitters for people like me.

Hell yes I am bitter, and fed up. Only rich McCain and Clinton would not know how bitter we are. There are two Americas. They are the ones that are horribly out of touch!

sri   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

he can do no wrong right?how many times can a candidate explain his way out of mistakes?he is surely going to run out of excuses one day.This is a surefire way of giving Mcain the presidency!

Jon   April 11th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

People are not just bitter about the economy and do-nothing, lying politicians, they are also bitter about the Irag war, our govenment's support of torture, the 30 percent dropout rate of our students, the greed of corporations like the oil campanies, the neglect of our environment, the crumbling of our infrastructure, the huge deficit, the sqandering of our resources and many others. Obama struck a cord with me because I feel this frustration. I want things to be different. When the campaingn started I was neutral. Now it is clear to me that Obama is in tune with the people. He gets it. Is he perfect? No. But we need to change things. Deep in my heart I feel that he can be a leader that will bring out the best in everyone. I sense that he will truly work for us to make a difference.

Obama 8 n 12   April 11th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

well said Mr Future President!!

Justin   April 11th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Wow, what a misleading opening statement. Good one!

Anne   April 11th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

I find it difficult to place much credence in the words of fabulously wealthy politicians. They have NO idea of the anger and the frustration to be found in those whose lives have been drastically altered by governmental interference and its inability to treat them fairly. Outsourcing jobs may make sense to their corporate sponsers, but it sure doesn't make sense to those who lost their jobs.

Barak Obama is dead on with his comments. He is not denigrating people...he is voicing his understanding of their plight. A person who wishes to solve a problem must first recognize that it exists. Judging from the comments of Senators McCain and Clinton, they are totally clueless.

Perhaps Senator Clinton would be a good running mate for Senator McCain. They seem to have the same perspective on economic issues.

George   April 11th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Bad spin attempt, instead of apologizing for insulting millions of Americans he makes jokes about Hillary and McCain. I wish the Senator from Illi-nausea would shut up and go back to what he does best which is attending important votes and voting "Present"

Apolo G. Myazz   April 11th, 2008 11:08 pm ET

Obama is the elitist? The new comer is out of touch? Good grief, Clinton and McCain helped to create the mess Obama is talking about. If it were not for Obama I'd gladly hang this mess we're in around either of his opponents necks....especially the situation in Iraq.

Gerry   April 11th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

Absolutely true! Go Obama!

We, the people, are so proud of you!

TheONE   April 11th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

Obama is dead on once again. It's been a joy to watch Obama mature and evolve in such a short time. He has EARNED my vote and deserves the opportunity to lead this country!

Linda   April 11th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

Obama speaks the truth and voters appreciate that. The truth is something that is unfamiliar to Clinton and confusing to McCain. Obama is the only candidate that is willing to deal with the real issues and the tough issues. The choice is easy–Obama for president.

Doni   April 11th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

First, points for the quick response. Swiftboating will not be a factor if he keeps this up.
Second, he has been correct since he first stated the issue. There are a lot of single-issue voters, and it is hard to reach out to them, because all they care about is that single issue.
Finally, if you think this is him being tough, wait until he gets angry. You won't like him when he's angry.

This was a generalization. As everyone knows, if you make a generalization, there are people who undoubtedly do not fall into that category. But, it's not like he created a situation that does not exist. It's common, and likely in the democratic race, you found one single issue that one candidate agrees with that the other doesn't, and that's why you support who you do. And that is why he's right.

Daniel   April 11th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

Yes OBAMA. How could anyone not be bitter? I think both Clinton and McSame are completely out of touch with reality. If anybody thinks people are not frustrated or bitter, then they need to wake up and smell the coffee. If you lost your home to foreclosure or lost your job and can't afford to pay for gas anymore, you will be upset, frustrated and bitter too. This is the kind of president we need. One who will tell us the truth and not play on our emotions. Both Clinton and McSame made millions last year so they fine. They don't think people are upset.

Independent   April 11th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

I'm satisfied with his approach and very glad that apparently this isn't something he's going to back down from.

You've got to know what he's saying. People don't vote (or at least haven't for a while) economic policy because politicians lack the ability to explain the economy is comprehensible terms. People vote what they can understand and the politicians pick up on it and craft carefully polled polarizing statements around that.

Linda-Texas   April 11th, 2008 11:06 pm ET

Go Obama, to hell will Clinton and McCain.....You are unstoppable and they will try any and everything to break u... especially Hillary & Sean Hannity he was so excited to get that information. I'm glad you did not apologize, apologize for what? people are mad, pissed and bitter....Clinton is out of touch and needs a vacation...I hope the people of New York vote her out.....

You Go Obama & Pennsylvaina!

larry   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

case closed , fine somthing else try and hype up. Hannity of fox news

gman   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

Clinton and McCain...if I lost my job and home and saw my government send my job overseas and bailed out corporate American...you better believe I would be BITTER!!! Do you two really understand what everyday Americans...not just small town America is going through? I can't believe you two are just that stupid!!!

John Halverson   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

Obama is out of touch? isn't he the same guy that has energized thousands and thousands of people to get back into politics? isn't he also the same guy that has out raised McCain and Hillary put together with donations from average Americans? it is absolutely hilarious to think that McCain says someone is out of touch. Hillary can take her $109 million and her elitist mentality and lie to another country I am tired of hearing all of her lies and "misspeaks" it drives me crazy.

Chris in Va.   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

"People are fed up."
Amen Senator Obama.......Amen.

Mary WA   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

Semantics- Fed -up is an easier term to swallow than bitter. The point was legitament. Once again Hillary is acting like a Republican opponent. This is to be expected from McCain-lame but expected. Hillary is a disgrace to her party. I have lost all respect for her. I don't want her as Vice President next term or President in 2012. She wants McCain to win and it is becoming obvious. If the superdelegates and DNC don't act soon we can say hello to President Mc Cain next year.

Tanya K   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

Obama is responding to his own foolishness in his very inexperienced and childish way. He seems to get backed in a corner by his own double talk and starts pointing out everyone else's flaws, instead of being responsable for his own. He will more then likely be the Democratic nominee. He will lose to John McCain, because he only has the vote of younger Americans that is obvious by the commentary. He and his supporters will be responsable for four more years of a downward spiral of America.

W.H. Thomas   April 11th, 2008 11:05 pm ET

What I also find funny is that Obama made these comments last Sunday...Why is it just now getting out now? And as a "blue collar southern democrat" I would be very "bitter" if my job was shipped overseas. I am still trying to figure out what the uproar is about.

Claude   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

There is do defense Obama, you're done.

Democrats United   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

Just watched the yutube video.... SLAM DUNK for Obama. Made Clinton and McCain look like old fools. This is why Obama will be the next president of the United States.

Jeff   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

Yes, truth to power. Come on people, get over yourselves. It's time for real change.

Orlando Jacinto   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

Senator Obama was not forced to defend comments he made at a recent fundraiser. Senator Obama is being honest and telling the voters what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. The comments weren't offensive. CNN is allowing itself to be a pawn to the Clintons. The best political team on TV. Gimme a break. I'm switching to MSNBC!

David Z   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

Whoops, I meant $50,000,000!

D. Brown, Texas   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

I believe all Americans are looking for a president that truly represents the idea that originally was upmost in the minds of early Americans: "We are of the people, by the people and for the people". I honestly believe that Senator Obama is all that, and so much more!
I am an American. My father and other relatives and ancestors fought for our people. I beg Americans not to put the Clintons back in office. They are so criminal, it is not even funny! My dad was retired military, and gave me so much information, before he died, regarding the Clintons, and their rise to power. I'm sorry, but the truth should come out now, if reporters will truly investigate the Clintons, and not let them keep riding on their condescending lies. Their agenda does not end with the White House. Please check this out.

Tt   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

This is what makes Obama's candidacy so attractive.The ability to respond in an honest and candid manner without being offensive.We all know that people are generally frustrated with the government and they tend to hold onto what is most dear to them especially religion.
Not just the small town Pennsylvannians.So, for Hillary to try to spin it underlines again the length she will go to say anything that will hurt her opponent.

Terry Williams   April 11th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

This is the way Obama has been in the entire campaign. He's arrogant, elitist, and condescending to ordinary folks.

His speech on race was his "teaching moment" where he felt the nation needed a lecture about racism in this country, and he felt he's the best person to give it. He didn't take any responsibility for putting J. Wright in his campaign. He didn't take any responsibility or not getting up or talking to j. Wright about his sermons.

When a survey he took when he was a senator surfaced that showed he has extremely liberal views, he blamed his staff for filling it out incorrectly. It was in his handwriting. He doesn't take responsibility.

He often says that "to know him is to love him." So when he talks about the poor white folk in PA who don't support him, he blames it on the fact that they've been so jaded by their hardships that they use their frustration to not vote for him.

Obama doesn't really know how he sounds to ordinary folks. He doesn't know how he sounds to Reagan Democrats in PA. He's putting those people down. He basically says, if you don't vote for him, its because you've got a problem.

Obama really needs to stop that or he'll be in for a big surprise in the GE.

pilkington   April 11th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

You have completely failed to accurately quote what Obama said. Instead, you have quoted him subsequently paraphrasing his actual comments. You should know better. What he said was:
" And it is not surprising then that they get bitter. They cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who are not like them or anti-immigration sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."
His comments were audiotaped and can be heard on the Huffington Post blog or Ben Smith's blog at Politico.com.
These statements are elitist, condescending and stereotype a lot of different people from a lot of different backgrounds. Very unifying, indeed!

Josmt   April 11th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Watch the Obama supporters take this as the holy grail... When are people going to wake up and pay attention this guys is nothing but words, and will say anything to anyone to please them... and not be consistence...

Eric   April 11th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Over 80% of people in the country think it is on "the wrong track," yet people are not bitter?

Ken   April 11th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

He is so arrogant he can't bring himself to apologize for anything. Obama lives in a 1.6 million dollar home, if that's not rich I don't know what is.

tda   April 11th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Obama is absolutely 100% correct...as usual. Not only are people bitter and frustrated about the politics of Washington, we are also sick and tired of the spin Billary, Bush III and THE MEDIA, particularly FOX News put on every word that comes out of his mouth. Keep on telling the truth Obama. The people hear you loud and clear and we ARE bitter and we ARE frustrated!

max   April 11th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

Obama is an honest man. he speaks the truth. he don't play politics of fear. He is right, there is bitterness is this country. Bush McCain war is enough bitterness and clinton is completely a divisive figure.

David Z   April 11th, 2008 11:02 pm ET

This is just incredible. Someone tells it like it is and gets criticised for it? Why, because the veil of truth is pulled off and the raw facts come out? Unbelievable. I want to remind the Americans voting for their future in what will be a short seven months from now: Those who ignore the past are doomed to repeat it. Anyone in their right mind and not making $50,000 a year knows what has happened. I see people who are in danger of losing their homes on a daily basis, and guess what- they ARE bitter. When you replace your $30.00 an hour job, and now are lucky to get a $10.00 an hour job- guess what? YOU ARE BITTER. Seeing what I see everyday crystallizes exactly what is wrong with the GOP, and Hilary Clinton. We may not have a "perfect" candidate in Senator Obama, but at least we have someone that tells it like it is.
Let McCain continue to run on his Iraq policy in which he confuses the Islamic factions, and let Hilary go into her hyperbolic prose about the "danger on the ground" in Bosnia.

Vig   April 11th, 2008 11:02 pm ET

Here we go. Spin it around Obama. You said what you said. You revelaed yourself as the uppity upstart. Your brashness is not presidential. Your affiliations are questionable. You smile to our faces and insult us behind our backs. Take a hike.

Brian   April 11th, 2008 11:02 pm ET

We wouldn't want change if we weren't bitter!

James   April 11th, 2008 11:02 pm ET

I'm from Pennsylvania and I'm one of those bitter people. I lost my job to a counterpart in Mexico. I retrained using 401K early withdrawals only to find the job market fading with each semester in shcool. As to health care, for those who lost their jobs COBRA is the alternative that only the wealthy can afford. What a joke. Obama has it on the money. Hillary needs to pay attention and listen instead of telling me how I should feel.

Stephy, Groton Connecticut   April 11th, 2008 10:43 pm ET

Preach it, mr President!
Let the pretenders know how is real in this campaign!
Let them know who is not afraid to speak the truth, even if it might be tough for some!
We need Change in this Country!!!

Deidre   April 11th, 2008 10:43 pm ET

Senator Barack Obama's problem is he is too truthful and some Americans like Senator Hilary Clinton only find truth in the poll numbers at the time. hey say he is out of touch, but he grew up very poor and understands the poverty and frustrations of people who have far less than they do. It's time Americans realize that we need a president that will tell us the truth pleasant or not.

Ellie in Aurora, CO   April 11th, 2008 10:43 pm ET

What a silly thing to even bring up! Of course people are bitter about their financial situation. Obama is right on target that people have been let down by Washington.

ABG   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

A sign of arrogance is not taking responsibility for what he actually said and deflecting away from his remarks that were inexcusable to Pennsylvanians.

He used the word "antipathy" related to our deep-seated ill will toward those who are different from us and immigrants. Who are the ones that are different?

He chose to talk about bitterness. Why did he not explain his derogatory and presumptuous characterization of Pennsylvanians?

A candidate running for President should not even have these thoughts let alone have the 'audacity' to express them behind closed doors to wealthy donors in CA.

It makes me wonder what is really in his heart and mind. I hope everyone in PA sends him packing!

He will never win in a general election!

jb   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

Jeff Toobin is just amazingly clueless. No he's not, he's a member of the liberal elite, just like Obama.

Keep talking down to us, Jeff and Obama. That'll sway a lot of voters.

Anette   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

Thank you CNN now post the video, please. It's powerful!!

Go Obama!!!!

Tell the truth because the truth does not lie...Unlike some people.

See God does not like Ugly Hillary/McShame!

A great pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do. - Walter Gagehot

Obama '08

Brooklyn   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

WOW! How dare Obama speak the truth again. He's so out of touch with political correctness.

To some people the truth is a foreign language!!

Brenda   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

It's it amazing that McCain and Clinton are ganging up on Obama. Obama must be winning.

Obama 08

shan   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

i have no idea what the clinton camp is talking about. their retort made absolutely no sense at all.

the mccain camp made more sense but in my mind i don't understand ppl voting through their religion. everyone doesn't share the same religion so why are those ppl trying to force theirs on others?

Brett   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

An apology would have been nice, Mr. Obama. But it just goes to show you how egotistical, elitist, and arrogant you truly are. Finally, his true colors are starting to show! THANK THE LORD! "Hope" really does exist!

Charles   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

Perhaps the 109 million dollar lens from which Sen. Clinton views the world explains her oblivia to the discontent of those that have and are suffering as a result of trade deals like NAFTA. This is why Sen. Obama is doing so well; he relates to the average person.

Obama in Touch   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

McCain/Clinton 08 is out of touch. They value scoring political points over helping the American people. The first step to solving a problem is recognizing it and confronting it head on. We are on our way…Obama 08. God Bless the USA.

Average Joe   April 11th, 2008 10:42 pm ET

You people that say. "Well with the Republicans taxes are lower." Get a clue. Are prices cheaper now than before and are you actually saving money, or is the price of everthing through the roof? Just wondering. How is inflation going with you guy?

honkey white guy from cali   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

yes once again he has taken the high road and those to went to the gutter!

shame on both of them last night on American idol both Hillary and Obama gave great comments in regard to idol gives back. Both spoke of the good that would come from the donations and howmuch the chartiy was helping very positive.

Mc can come on and first thing he said " it is a good thing American idol does not vote like we vote or MI and FL would not count, then moved right in to his economy package took advantage of a great moment on tv for his political good shame on you Mc Cain

Obama 08

dt   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

b.o.get out of the race your not good for this country.its over obama.hillary all the way.

John   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Obama is the person who would tell the truth, unlike McCain and Hillary who would say anything to get into White House.

Obama 09'

David   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

I totally agree!

SN from MN   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Osama just frosted the cake. He just became a one term senator!

MPA   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Great come back Obama!! Everytime one his detractors try to knock him down, he jumps back up and delivers a right hook to the jaw!

ROTFLMAO!!!

Paul from PA   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

This was a quick and decisive response by Obama. I love that about his campaign. He will not allow anyone SWIFT BOAT his candidacy. HIllary looks so so desperate that I actually feel sorry for her. But she'll need more than my symphathy to win my vote.

Honesty. Integrity. Judgement. – You give me those qualities in a candidate and you'll have my vote.

Obama has my vote.

Mel   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Senator Barack Obama is straight up and presents none of the feign outrage so evident in the tired old-Washington campaigns of Senator Hillary Clinton and her co-conspirator, Senator John McCain.

What is sad is the way the media has spinned this story, offering little critical thinking except Jeffrey Tobin, Bill Schneider and Roland Martin (who try to be fair to both candidates). Of all the stories to "run with", this one was lame.

It is one thing to "report" the news; it is entirely different to "mis-present", which is precisely what Senators Clinton and McCain tried to do, the same day President Clinton gets caught in a lie about the Bosnia story, media reports he is making more promoting the Colombia free trade agreement than even sacked strategist Mark Penn.

Everyone talks about finding that one "thing" that will make Mr Obama unelectable. We'll they are not finding it. The equally important question is this: Is there anything that will make Senator Clinton unelectable?

I am disgusted at the desperate efforts of President Bill Clinton and Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton.

- Mel

Tom P   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Sen. Obama said nothing wrong, in fact, I believe people all over the Country are upset and bitter by the way our government has continued for years now not hear us on the issues that matter to us most. I know for a fact that my neighbors and fellow Oregons and I are upset and bitter and want CHANGE! OBAMA 08!!

mamady sylla (london)   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

The same old Washington is doing the same old thing over and over again. America needs a REAL change. America needs Barack to radically change the statuquo.m

Dom   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Obama- +1

McCain/Hillary: 0

Seriously, does anyone respond to campaign crises better than this guy?? I don't know if it's because he's just a great politician, or if he seriously has good intentions behind most of his controversial actions. But it's freakin impressive

J, Ca   April 11th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Too late Pal.

Lee Bartholomew   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Not really sure what Hillary has to gain by arguing a point. She made a heck of alot more money than the Obama's. Wish she'd quite putting her foot in her mouth.

Charley   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Wow...when Obama speaks the truth, it's a problem. The Senator is walking a thin line that no other politician has never done before. This is reality America... Obama '08

Zach   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

People are losing their jobs everyday. Then the current administration gives tax cuts to the wealthy. All the while CEOs and oil companies are making millions and billions of dollars.

Are these people frustrated? Yes. Are they bitter? Yes.

Are Hillary and McCain denying that people are bitter? Seriously?

Cherokee   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

I understand loosing a job and being bitter. Been there, done that, and wore the tie shirt. My husband lost his job after working for the same company for over 28 years. We are still bitter and angry ten years later. If it wasn't for the grace of God and our families, I don't know what we would have done. Know one else came to our rescue. My husband is a hard working man, but that didn't stop him from being bitter. Obama did not offend me. He said what needed to be said. He is not out of touch with people. Stop the bull, nobody is doing a thing. I don't care to hear the sweet talk.

Jackie Nb   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Obama you should start thinking hard before you speak!!!! You will be the one responsible for your own fall!!! MCCAIN OR CLINTON, HELP AMERICA!!!!!!!!

Axel   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

“THE BEST SCENARIO”, Obama elected as president for life, the Republican Party dissolved, and USA adopts socialism and a one party system. Jack Cafferty appointed minister of propaganda for life.

“IMAGINE” free Prozac for everybody and no elections for the coming 30 years.

Wes in KY   April 11th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Open mouth, insert foot. Is anybody really surprised here? If he's not going to correctly and definitively renounce his pastor's words, why on earth would he apologize for his own?

Some will say that it just shows Obama's "honesty" and "bravery", but moreso it shows how naive and foolish he really is for standing by such an ill-advised and careless choice of words.

Paco   April 11th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

What is so bad about saying people are bitter? They are bitter. Who wouldn't be when their jobs are taken away and promises are broken.

hkitty   April 11th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Have we seen and heard enough from this guy yet? No matter how you slice it, it is insulting to small town people and they are smart enough to know when they are being insulted!

Kat   April 11th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Funny, how the truth hurts. People ARE bitter and will only become more so as the economy continues to tank. It's not just PA, OH and IN, there are areas of NY that are in no better shape and haven't been in years. That's Hillary country. If she's so in touch with the 'common people,' she would know that and would have done something to help.
People do turn to religion and the things they think they can control when things get really tough.
Clinton and McCain are looking down on people who they don't think are smart enough to understand what Obama said. Of course, when statements are taken out of context, it's easier to bamboozle the listening public. Don't let them do that to you.

Lisa, AR   April 11th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Hillary and McCain both, need a reality check!!!!!!! It is obvious, they are the ones out of touch.

TKO   April 11th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Float like a butter fly, sting like a bee! This man Obama just got a vote from me.

Ha ha! I'll I have to say is, "Bring it on!"

Obama is inspiring in his message. Not only that, he has the conviction to follow through. I love this man.

Ryan   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Obama always seems more honest. More heartfelt. Hillary spins. McCain seems to want to play it down the middle. Obama says what he sees as being real. That is being in touch. That is what the US needs.

sarju   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

you are just on the point and so smart, thank you that is why we love you.

GDB   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Much ado about nothing. What's more important, Hillary's lie about Bosnia or Obama's descriptive comment about the mood of the PA citizens?

j. Page   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

This guy talks out of so many sides of his mouth it's rediculous. First of all if he were going to make those statements to side WITH Pennsylvanian's why didn't he MAKE the statements to THEM! Instead he goes to San Francisco and makes statements ABOUT them to the eliteist IN San Franciso...then tries as he ALWAYS does to gain political advantage with PA and IN by accusing his opponents. That has been HIS game all along...When HE wanted it to be about RACE all of a sudden statements from people like Bill Clinton, Ed Rendell, and Gerry Ferraro who have ALWAYS been known to be in touch with all races....are Racist people and everything they said was turned into a racist comment...EVEN the statement (TRUE FACT) that Jesse Jackson won SC when he ran for President..but all of sudden..it was a RACIST statement... This of course gave those African Americans who loved Bill Clinton...because he had done so much for them while President a good reason to dislike him NOW and Vote for their boy Obama! Obama KNOWS a good defense is a good Offense...and he loves being on the Defense...it makes him look humble and needy..People NEED to WAKE UP....and think like he thinks...remember the OAKIE DOKE!! Where he is concerned where there is ALL that smoke....there IS some fire!

C Watson   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

I think Obama's remarks are the most in touch with reality.

Wes in KY   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Well, we all know what Obama clings to during tough times: a hate-mongering pastor and a sleazy landlord. Face it, guys…Obama is a joke. And he's bordering the level of self-parody with the fact that every time he faces any kind of heat, he delivers a speech full of his trademark overblown, over-dramatic "eloquence". It's so predictable. A sort of band-aid of pretty words that will make all the skeletons in his closet suddenly disappear.

Mark my words, tomorrow he will deliver yet another uninspired bit of pseudo MLK/JFK mish-mash rhetoric to coo the media and further brainwash his supporters into believing he can do no wrong.

It almost makes me want Hillary to lose the primary for the sole purpose of seeing Obama fall and fall hard come November.

Christine D   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Obama can't talk about anyone being rich. How did you get a 1.6 million dollar house?

He is so arrogant!

Chris   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

LOL i find it funny that one can find that offensive..And spin to that he is saying that americans or small town america are not resilient or optimistic? Then republicans say that he is an elitist and bitterness = gun ownership and more religious faith..

What i hate is that politicians think that the American people are stupid enough to think that we don't know what the game of politics is!!!!! like we don't know why the clintions are going to say or the republicans are going to say or obama might say when there is a negative that they much pounce on.

What Barack said is true People for the most part Don't care(in reference to his statement)s..why you think americans don't get out and vote!!!!! Cause they don't believe in the government is looking out for them. So they care about whats close to home and thats why they stay home on election night..cause No one cares about me!!!!

Anyvic   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

WOW!! Obama, It took you what 5 hours or more to come up with this? It this the best answer you could give after consulting with your team of advicers? What a shame.

Richard   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Hillary and McCain are saying that Obama's statement is condescending. Bill Schneider jumped on the band wagon. What a shame. Obama initially did not elaborate so they gave their own interpretations. I am happy he had a chance to explain himself. In a nutshell, the people are bitter about loosing their jobs and are frustrated will the current political system.

greg   April 11th, 2008 10:29 pm ET

Obama should change his middle name from Hussein to The Truth, because that's what he speaks.

Thank God For Barack.

independent   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

so tired of obama doing the two-step around, well, everything.

lori altoona Iowa   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

He has totally knocked himself out. He repeatedly says offensive things...and coming in 3s and 4s....makes statements and this one just puts him over the top....."typical white people", everyone else is racist for any little comment that he deems racist and you people are calling others nit picky. Get a grip people.....Your guy just stepped off the plank. These people know what he said about them in California. He was talking down about them to wealthy donators to his campaign.

Obamas people attack attack attack and guess what he cannot back peddle on this one and the media knows it. Stop hating. Accept the loss and Obama needs to get out of the RACE!! Oh my god, did I just say the word RACE....I must be a racist. Oh and I said get out of the RACE how does that make you all feel. Offended right. Stop saying it!!!

Kim E.   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

I love how the Clinton and McCain camps are trying to paint Obama's comments as "condescending" and "out of touch". He hit the nail right on the head, and , being old-school Washington politicians, they try to divert and distract. They are indeed out of touch with the public. I really hope PA and the rest of the primary states realize what they are up to. Don't vote for more of the same stuff. Let's change this.

Chuck   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

How desperate Hillary and McCain must be........Barack was not being elitist but truthful. Give us all a break and start criticizing issues of substance.

Doyle - MI   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Mr. Obama is on point and in touch with America. Clinton and McCain are stuck in the political twilight zone.

jm24   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Coming from bitter Hillary, nothing surprises me. Obama was right on in his speech. Hillary/Bill/John are all one and all 'out of touch'. I think something must be about to break news in a big way for Billary to be trying to get the media down Barack's neck.

Just go away already.

And by the way Hill, Bill is really an Obama supporter and is going to divorce you after you lose this nomination. Hope you don't become bitter, you old bat.

way to go Obama!   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

you have hit the nail on the head. i dont know if you really can change our country, but i at least know that you are going to try - the right way, and for the right reasons.

Celina Bean   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Politics is really sad. I'm watching Hillary and McCain takes Obama's statements out of context and make them appear to be what they want them to be. Again, we're talking about Bosnia again and Hillary changes the subject to Obama. This is so silly and people have sense enough to see right through all of the rhetoric coming from Hillary and Mccain. Remember, Pensylvania is coming up, so Hillary needs to lie to get obama's numbers down. You know, anyone who would take these statements and change their vote, were not very strong in the first place. And then you turn on Fox, and there you have crazy sick Sean Hannity still obsessing over Obama because he happens to be a black man and Sean can't stand that, but doesn't have the guts to say that he just doesn't like black people, especially as his president. It is sad.

A Democrat for McCain   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

We need a leader, not a liar, or Obama, a politician willing to sell his soul for a bigger backyard – how sad is that!
I'm disappointed by both of my party's candidates. McCain looks better every day.

CLINTON SUPPORTER   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

I think Obama is right on this one....as a small town guy, i am frustrated by WASHINGTON. It's true many of us fall back to our comfort zones for inner peace or rather self satisfaction.......and frankly i think he's just being honest about it.

PA VOTER   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Right on Barack...America needs you...We got your back come April 22nd...

bob smith   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

the true obama is slowly coming out,and the more I learn about this guy and his friends{rev wright,william ayers,reszco} the more scared I am for america

Elizabeth   April 11th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Good for you Obama. I heard pundits saying "more to come on Obama's attack of Pennsylvania." Oh how our MSM love to distort.

And you are absolutely right. We no longer trust all the promises. Clinton has the nerve to say you are out of touch when her husband accepted an $800,000 fee from the Columbians as to the CAFTA trade deal?

Talk about out of touch!

Go Obama 08!

caroline   April 11th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

It is so sad to see how nasty is this campaign and how much anger there is in human been only to be a winner....I support Obama, I don't like and I have never liked the idea to have the Clintons back ....all the nasty and the anger against Obama is disgusting, he cannot say one word that Hillary doesn't like that it will used agaist him. What did he say so terrible?? I really believe that most of America didn't want him as President and every single word will be used against him.

It is so sad for me who had the dream of America.....I am not so sure it is a dream anymore....

katherine   April 11th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

It is ironic that John McCain takes issue with these remarks considering that this is precisely the reality that his campaign adviser Carl Rove counts on to convince people to vote against their own economic interests. Call it elitist and condescending if you want to, that doesn't make it any less true.

Steve from PA   April 11th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

Its about time we have someone like Obama to tell it like it is. I don't need or want a apology from Obama for telling the truth. He's not running on behalf of old politics. He running on behalf on "NEW" politics. I am bitter that jobs are being shipped away, gas prices are skyrocking food is expensive....Come on everyone the media is and i repeat "IS" going to blow this out of context. Trust your gut instincts and vote for CHANGE.

OBAMA '08

Drew, FL   April 11th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

It figures that the Billary spokesman, would spin it that way. That's what he's paid to do. As for Tucker, I don't put much stock in what he says. His show was cancelled after all. 'nuff said.

A. Harrison, Atlanta Georgia   April 11th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

You have yet to learn Barack to think before you speak. You and Michelle don't care what you say. I don't want a President who can start a conflict by not thinking before they speak.

HILLARY 2008!

Jed in Texas   April 11th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

"I mad as hell,and im not going to take it anymore".From the movie"Network".If the truth hurts ,so be it.

patrick   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

CNN, please post this one, it would be a first.

I have to speak up and say that I'm exhausted by watching the Orwellian Doublespeak in this campaign. Obama says the sky is blue, and somehow it becomes "Obama claims no color but blue is acceptable, we should be outraged!"

Now he points out that politicians pander to people's fears and invent hot-button issues to distract them from their eventual do-nothing approach to economic disparity, and somehow that's a bad thing?

This is totally insane! We're democrats, not republicans! We should be praising his remarks TO THE RAFTERS!!! This isn't an offense, IT'S OUR PARTY PLATFORM, for pete's sake!

Antoinette   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

The term Bitter does mean hard to bear and causing pain

I dont know about anyone else, but i think that losing all those jobs due to Clinton's Nafta business and the Columbian trade business would cause me great pain

Im still failing to see the problem here?

Keep trying to deflect the attention from Obama because you told 3 lies in a row that came because of YOU. Not McCain nor Obama

And McCain should hush his mouth. You dont even KNOW about the economy and what the people are going through to say someone is out of touch

deaf1983   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

Amen, Go OBAMA!
You said exactly what I am feeling.

Hillary has serious issues   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

If I'm being sold down the river by Hillary R. Clinton, when she poses as my humble, blue-collar, regular gal friend, I'D BE BITTER, TOO.

Earl   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

This is why I detest the Clintons and even though I am a registered Republican I will never vote for McCain. Anyone with common sense will see that what Obama says is totally true. People are bitter and fed up because they have heard lies after lies like those from Clinton about how they will fight for the little guy and yet nothing gets done. They need to just shut up and start being honest with themselves and the American people. It seems that only Senator Obama has a pulse on how unnhappy people really are with these Washington insiders

Cheryl   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

Good for Obama. nice reaction to Clinton trying to manipulate his message. Watch the Blitzer panel. Good to see someone gets it.

Rob   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

Clinton:
Weak jab at Obama (clearly did not read the transcript, only got fed the "controversial" line)

McCain:
Throws a Jab at Obama. (read ONLY the line at issue)

Obama:
Dodge, Weave, and then threw Uppercut

I'll say one thing, its refreshing to see a candidate whose not going to say he mispoke or misunderstood, or was confused when confronted with something they said.

He took what they threw, and threw right back in their face.

tojoi   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

People are fed up with the war. Fed up with lack of jobs. Fed up with gas prices. Fed up with the economy. He spoke the truth. And it was not disrespectful. It was raw and its the truth. Personally, the only respect I need from these candidates the their respect for my wallet. Americans want CHANGE. OBAMA! OBAMA!

Bob   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

How telling that Senator Clinton's response is almost identical to Senator McCain's...

Obama's stunningly quick work to turn a potential negative into a positive will win him even more uncommitted superdelegates. They don't want to endorse him now knowing that he will lose (but not by much) in PA, and thus, make their endorsements look weak.

But, after PA, they will flock to him before he wins NC big.

And Pelosi is right (for once), Hillary will not be his vice president. He would never be able to sleep with both eyes closed.

Also Scared of Obama Supporters   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

He said what he said to a group of elitists. He called us Pennsylvanians down. He can explain all he wants, but sometimes people say what they mean, and this is what happened here. Senator Obama sees small town people as lesser than, and certainly not equal to.

Independent   April 11th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

I thought Obama was going to be different. He was going to run a different campaign, no slinging mud, etc.

Hah!

Well, once again.... he blew it! And his second story to explain it all didn't match the words of his original story! He's just making-it-up,
as he goes along. Getting in deeper and deeper.

Sherry   April 11th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

I just now came to the conclusion that a vote for Obama is what I am going to do. He has hit the nail on the head. Americans are "fed up."

I have not voted Democrat since Bill Clinton ran. I could see right through him and didn't approve of what I saw.

I have been wavering between McCain and Obama.

I can see clearly now that Obama is the wave of fresh air for our country's future.

Dennis   April 11th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

Good for Obama. The attacks on his use of the word "bitter" were pretty desperate to begin with. Unfortunately, that is what I have come to expect from the Clinton campaign. Considering how the past few weeks have gone for her, it is hardly surprising.

Rick Stacy   April 11th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

How could you print this story and not directly quote what Obama said? What kinda of POS news organization are you people? Bias by omission? PRINT THE QUOTE THAT CAUSED THIS TO BE STORY!!! Will you even deem this appropriate for your blog? What is CNN a microcosm of a communist country?

Adam   April 11th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

Absolutely.

He told the truth.

A recent poll said 81% of Americans think the country's gone in the wrong direction.

Obama's the only one who apparently knows what we're all going through.

Not to mention, with the Clintons being $109 million rich and negotiating trade deals behind closed doors and McCain having 59 lobbyists in his campaign and talking about pre-emptive war -

I don't think either one of them need to be talking about someone else being "out of touch".

Good job.

Obama '08!

Blake   April 11th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

I stand by amazed at the fortitude of this man. He is speaking a message that rings out across America with an astounding voice that is perpetuated not by the media, but by the voices of the American people. I see history before us with a hopeful optimism that suggests that this country can be made better. It can be accomplished. It is just within reach. If Americans will lend their ear to this man and his message of hope. Hope for an American future for our children in generations to come.

ron   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

Didn't sound like spin to me. The spin was what they were putting on the word BITTER. Grow up Hillary

Thad Williamson   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

score one for Barack on this exchange. The Clinton camp is practicing the politics of desperation, swinging wildly at any opportunity. This time they missed badly.

Jane   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

That should read Hillary will be outsourcing more jobs to China, India, and Mexico through NAFTA.

Serge the DEM   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

Now that's what I'm talking about! This is one of the many reasons why I support him!

Obama '08!!!

Joetta Shumaker   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

I am from PA and i don't think what Obama is off. I hold God close to me , and I will stick to my guns. Everyone, is upset over the way things are going on. . God gave me the right to think and feel for myself ! Don't try to take that away .

Joetta

Lys Wilcox   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

Look folks America needs to hear the truth, Many people are bitter and
unhappy and rightly so, but they tend to vote against their own itnterest.
Again Obama proves to be a person who go after the truth rather than
pander to polls and the media. CNN, be journalist not opinion makers. Why are
we not delving into the connect between the Clinton and Columbia. Nafta
is that not an interest to PA voters, did Hillary support it more than she is stating,
I think so, why not delve into that instead of creating a controversy where none exist unles you create it,
Polls in PA must be getting really close..

I applaud Obama for telling the truth as he sees it and trying to create a dialoge.

It bugs me when I hear the whole, he is so arrogant routine, it historically a label
many people of color get when they speak their mind with eloquence.
How dare you be educated and bold enough to run for America's highest office.

Bravo Obama!

mark from pa   April 11th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

hillary cannot understand when people are loosing their homes, their jobs and high gas prices because she is a millionaire. first of all she can't uderstand reality because she can't understand herself as a liar

Jane   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Meanwhile, Hillary is ready to send more jobs overseas. Hillary will be outsourcing more US jobs to China, Indiana, and more through NAFTA to Mexico because that's just the kind of gal she is.

Hillary, you are a disgrace to the country. People are bitter. They are fed up with you sending their jobs overseas.

TH Better   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

ENGLISH 101:
Excerpt from Collins COBUILD Dictionary:

2. If someone is bitter after a dissapointing experience or after being treated unfairly, they continue to feel angry about it.
Examples: She is said to be very bitter about the way she was sacked...

Warning: don't any body put up a comment here unless they have looked up the meaning.

It is typical that among a group of people who lost their jobs, there must be some fraction of them who are bitter. If you are really meeting with most of these people, you should have come across some bitter ones.

JosBam   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Obama's ennemies will try again to make negatives on him...But that will not work..Americans are not stupid..Hillary just have to shut up and leave...Mc Cain is really out of touch because he is so old to understand what's going on nowadays..Change is coming in america..Let's support that..

Obama ,for president

SunSon   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

CNN Morons:

He is not "defending". He is counter attacking. Geez.

Soloman Torres   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

I'm a Erie, PA Republican and I find myself in an uncommon position - defending Senator Obama. In my opinion, the only controversy here is that McCain and Clinton are so out of touch that they don't realize that Obama is right. People are bitter about the unresponsiveness of their government, and they do vote on issues that don't really affect their lives directly, because those issues appeal to raw emotion and tap into their frustrations. The real controverst here is that Sens. McCain and Clinton think the people of "Main Street America" are too stupid to understand the point Obama was making. Talk about condescension!

Lucas, Nashville TN   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Again Clinton cannot handle the hard truth. And look at the responses from the Clinton and McCain camps!!! How cookie-cutter! Looks like some XEROX at work, eh Hillary?

Someone should point out how the term "small town America" is being abused and used so disingenuously by those two!

Mark   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Hillary is afraid because she realizes that bitterness drives change.

big shot   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Four years of a cocky, mocking big shot in the white house is plenty long for most of us Americans.

We do not want to coronate King Obama.

Let go with a down to earth, human leader.

Hillary may not be perfect, but she does not pretend to be and she does not talk down to people. And given her superior intelligence and command of facts, if anyone should feel so inclined, it would be Hillary.

Fortunately she is more concerned with improving the lives of all Americans, then in trying to outdo them with her brilliance.

Obama is so self-impressed... and it is totally unbecoming.

Worried About America   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Why is it so hard for people to accept the truth? Would you have preferred a running from snipers story?

Boye   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

I don't think by laughing at the Columbia question, Hillary was respecting the small town people who lose their jobs will she (and her husband) make loads of money off their situation. The word "bitter" can range from disappointment to anguish depending on your point of view. Of course Hillary will bring out the negative just to raise her chance at Pennsylvania.
How about Hillary run based on her merits and not try to bring down everyone around so she can look better. Oh I forgot, she misspoke about her merits.

Me   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

"San Francisco remarks"!!! I am so tried of hearing that crap. I'll admit that there are some freaks in san fran but enough already. The repubs always say something is from San Francisco is they dont agree or want to trash someone. It is getting old. McCain I thought you were different.

Matt M.   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Tell 'em, Barack. It looks like Clinton and McCain are teaming up now with their ludicrous spin. In no way were Barack Obama's comments belittling. I bet you anything you could find a sound bite of Hillary saying the same thing in Ohio.

CJ   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Clinton trying to take the heat off her stupid husband's remarks today. That's all. This time, like all the others, will once again backfire on her and McCain in a big way. Barack's fed up with their crap and I for one wish he wasn't such a gentleman sometimes. I hope he REALLY lets loose on them one day soon.

Barb Canada   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

It's not about the "BITTER" it's the other degrading comments, kinda like they are too stupid, to realize when help is their, and they need to hold onto their guns, religion, and perceived racism!! Gross Candidacy Mis-speak in the first degree!!

Ed from Pa   April 11th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Exactly! Why do you think voter turnout has been so low before this critical election? Bush v. Gore? Bush v. Kerry? Clinton v. Bush? Clinton v. Dole? There have been no candidates of any value in the last 20 years!

People are fed up with this! People are tired of their government not speaking for them – so people have been apathetic towards the government, and towards politics, for two decades. The one political story everyone remembers most from the last 20 years is Clinton's affair with Lewinsky! Doesn't that tell you something?

Tired Of IGNORANT PEOPLE   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

O MY GOSH!!!! YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING!!!!!THE CONVENTIONAL CORRUPT ONES ARE COMINGOUT TO TRY AND SAVE THERE IMPENDING DOOM, HRC YOU HAVE LOST THE NOMINATION YOU ARE A LIAR!!!!!!! WHEN WILL PEOPLE START TO DARN!!! SEE THAT. john mccain your policies will jsut ruin the usa into 2nd world status and destroy our economy, your defense is weak as twigs...prepare for youtr doom when obama astronomically defeats you. Obama talks the truth cause i hear it too, if people don't see that and will be easily swayed by HRC LIES!!!! and John Mccains poor policies they don't deserve to have there problems solved Because they have a chance NOW! Vote OBAMA and lets get things back in order.

mike   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Is he wrong? Noone in PA is bitter? And they deserve to be. Good lord, are we going to condemn him because he will speak honestly? Clinton, she of the 109 million over the past 5 years, says everyone she has seen is upbeat and still fighting despite two decades of an economic beatdown. BS. Lets get real. Real people get bitter when things are bad for a very long time. This is not an insult...

erika   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Hey Obamamaniacs,

Ever heard the expression, he's not laughing with us, he's laughing at us?

You can't defend this. If he said it to a group of hard-working people struggling to make ends meet it would be more defendable.

Instead, he said it to a group of affluent dot commers in San Francisco. The elitism is on the wall.

CNN – please post this even though I speak ill of the Obama-god.

RJL for USA   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

There is nothing elitist about identifying the problem instead of igoring it. Both Clinton and Bush Administrations have ignored the problem for too long and Americans have accepted this very low standard of service from these "public" servants. It would be nice if we could guarantee that McCain's administration would be much different, but again the American people are being asked to compromise.

Clinton and McCain, everything is not well with the unemployed because of faulty free trade agreements like NAFTA or the homeless because of the foreclosure crisis. But neither of these candidates would know this because they are lining their pockets with money fromn the lobbyists and other Washington cronies for speaking engagements and such.... Just the facts and the TRUTH please!!!

Mike   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

So Barack Obama said that people that have been suffering economically for years are bitter towards the politicians that have failed to alleviate their situation...and who wouldn't be bitter????? As much as other campaigns seem to be dismissing it, bitterness is a real emotion. People tend to experience it when they have been let down time and time again by those they are told to trust. People always complain that politicians are liars and they aen't honest, well why do you think that is??? Because the truth hurts sometimes, and if you tell the truth, you're not honest...you're out of touch.

Sara   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

The honest truth spoken from someone who truly understands. Bitterness and despair DO turn the affected to other issues as a much needed distraction. This is not looking down, this is saying I understand and I do not find fault with your reactions.
Clinton's opportunistic drivel simply cheapens her appearance.

karen from philly   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

That's what losers say because McCain and Hillary have more to hide than Barack.

tojoi   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

What did he say wrong. People ARE FED UP.

Louis McKenzie   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

If you were on the verge of losing your home due to problems with your mortgage contract would you Optimistic? If You lost your son or daughter in a war that should never have been started would you be jumping for joy because John McCain was on the way to save the day? Especially when he said many people buy houses they know they cant afford and may well need a kick in the pants to get into a house they can afford. SHould they be happy with the idea of bailing out Bear Sterns but letting Ida Gonzales lose her home at age 63? Why are Clinton and McCain campaigning against Obama? Is it that McCain knows he will win against Hillary, but is uncertain about his chances against Obama?

Lee Ohio   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Good response Obama, if anyone thinks he was condescending; wait till the GOP start attacking. Obama hit it right on the nose and then hit HRC and McShame across their empty heads. I am a blue collar working and fortunately I am still employed, but when my coworkers get laid off, I get just as bitter as they do. The only people who have trouble understanding what Barack is saying are those who have never struggled, or those who have never fought in a WAR.

OBAMA in 08

Hillary Lies!   April 11th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

What a brilliant response. This guy shows time and time again that he's not scared to face anything. Unlike Hillary who laughs off legitimate questions about special interests in Colombia, and only admits to 'misspeaking' when caught fabricating stories. Obama is such a breath of fresh air! It would be an utter shame to lose him.

Ronaldo   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

OMG!!! I am so flippin sick of The Billary show....Please let this be over soon??? Go away Billary you sicken me with your "kitchen sinkfu" techniques...

a fed up military wife   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

How about Hillary apologize to the spouses and children of those serving who actually face the REAL threat of sniper fire every day for her and her husbands' lies about it and her joking about it on Jay Leno. There are those who have lossed loved ones to sniper fire and I promise you they are not laughing themselves to sleep at night.
If this is the BEST that either the Clinton or McCain people can come up with– fretting over words that are TRUE...people outside of PA are bitter too about a lot of things. We don't need apologies; we need someone who is in touch with what's really happening. Then this Rebulican is now squarly behind Obama.

jb   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Spin, spin, spin, Senator Obama.

What you said, was the only reason people embrace god, guns (hunting), or are against free trade policies and illegal immigration, is because they are bitter. You were calling rural folks dumb, ignorant, and racist. You were also saying that people embracing god, hunting or gun rights, and anti-free trade and anti-illlegal immigration policies are wrong and/or stupid but would be ok and come around to YOUR "better" point of view if they had good jobs.

Trying to spin this as a defense of people being upset about job losses is untruthful. Yeah, people are upset about that but what was offensive in YOUR comments SENATOR was you SAYING, people only embraced GOD and other ideas YOU apparently find repulsive is because they're poor and bitter. You're saying GOD has no value except as a CRUTCH!

Hayden   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Wow.....Obama is so arrogant and cocky.

Madalynn   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

You want to make a point Obama-please explain as I am from a small town. I am insulted and dismayed and have pity for your voters. They are blind. I am happy and elated that now perhaps America will open their eyes. Please tell us more Barack!
Go Hilary! We can see....!!!!!

Karen - Branson MO   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

p.s.
Clinton and McCain need to pay more attention to their own shaky campaigns instead of always pouncing on Obama. They twist words to suit themselves (McCain and Clinton).

Boye   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

I don't think by laughing at the Columbia question, Hillary was respecting the small town people who lose their jobs will she (and her husband) make loads of money off their situation. The word "bitter" can range from disappointment to anguish depending on your point of view. Of course Hillary will bring out the negative just to raise her chance at Pennsylvania.
How about Hillary run based on her merits and not try to bring down everyone around so she can look better. Oh I forgot, she misspoke about her merits.

bill pike   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

please print this: i am bitter at bush/mccain/clinton for sending our troops to a land that will never know peace, bitter that there was no reason to go, bitter that clinton signed the NAFTA agreement, bitter that the clintons are making millions because of NAFTA and telling people in Penn they are against it AND MAKING MILLIONS. I am bitter that the clintons lie and lie about their lies, l am bitter about acting like she had been a war hero who was under fire when we have our kids being killed every day. I AM BITTER AS HELL AND NOT GOING TO TAKE IT ANYMORE should be obama's song until november.

AJ   April 11th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

This is rediculous, another example of Obama showing people that he needs votes. Americans are indeed bitter.... I am sick and tired of the way the government works, but Americans do not CLING to religion, or gun ownership, or anything else. THese are OUR rights as Americans. Anyone who believes this spin is ignoring the real facts. This had nothing to do with bitterness, and everything to do with the demeaning of our rights, our religion and our laws.

Clinton 08

Jane   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Obama has talked to the people. He is echoing their words. Obama is echoing the words of the people who have lost their jobs due to NAFTA and all of the outsourcing of jobs from the US to other countries that Hillary has had her hand in. It's been made quite clear that McCain supports NAFTA as well.

OBAMA SPEAKS FOR THE PEOPLE.

OBAMA '08

You bet we are bitter   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Obama, you are 100% correct. We are bitter. Jobs are going overseas, gas prices are ridiculous, health care is a joke, and the economy is in crisis.

The America we love and respect is in crisis. You bet we are bitter. We are bitter that it has been allowed to happen and continues to happen.

Finally someone speaks the truth for all the hard-working Americans in this country. Repat after me – WE ARE BITTER.

How can anyone not think we are bitter? Clinton needs to just pack it up and go back to her self-indulgent lifestyle. She does not have a clue about the rest of America.

Thank you Obama for speaking the truth. Keep it up!

george   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Hilary should focus on speaking the truth and stop lying. She has misled the people of America enough. She could start with Bosnia then move on to Columbia.

Leo   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Is this goofy, or what? Somebody used the word 'bitter' the wrong way? This is beyond ridiculous. Let's get a life here and talk about the issues. I'm "bitter" about meaningless attacks on opponents.

Reginald Stewart   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Senator Clinton's remarks that the people of Pennsylvania are not bitter seem to to me that she is a little out of touch with the average blue colar working American. I work right here in there back yard Washington D.C. and I feel that the way the past administrations have let the CEO,s of these companies make millions whether they leave on there own or are fired, and at the same time take money from the employee's is outrageous.

Sandy   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I agree with Obama, we the general public are bitter and fed up. The cost of living is sky high and we are losing jobs to overseas. Obama should not apolgize, Clinton is just grabbing at any chance she might attack our future President.

rocky balbaldie   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

That is rich.. two millionaires calling Obama out of touch. Who wouldnt be angry that they got laid off because there job went overseas.. Clinton and McCain are two peas in a pod. and neither have my vote.

Garner   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I watched the video of his response to McCain and Clinton, and Obama just knocked it out of the park in the most awesome fashion possible. Clinton and McCain are bush league compared to Obama, particularly in their pathetic attempt to make political hay out of this attention grab of Mayhill Fowler. If the video gets airplay, it's going to bite them both on the backside.

Gregory   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

What is very clear is Barack Obama does NOT pander to people's fears. Unlike most politicians, he is honest and candid. Does that make some of his statements hard to swallow? Most certainly as Americans are use to a political environment and game that does NOT address the REAL issues.

Barack, an elitist, give me a BREAK. Hillary and Hubby Bill made over 100 million dollars over the last 6 years and John McCain's wife is an heir to a 100 million dollar family business. Now, you have Barack, the son of an African Immigrant and Kansas women. He comes from middle America and he understands their frustrations. Unlike his opponents, Hilary, Bill and John, the was abandoned by his father at the age of 2 and lost his mother of a terminal illness years ago.

Barack, does NOT underestimate the intellect of small town America, instead, he embraces it. He small town American and Hilary, Bill and John are just along for the RIDE!!

Thanks Barack for standing on principles and NOT politics!!! You are a true American hero....

America is READY for A CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN!!!

Gregory
Atlanta

white woman   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

i thought words are just words.

obama 08

Donna Kasa   April 11th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I am from Pennsylvania, and I disagree with all of the uproar over Senator Obama's remaks. He hit it right on the head. He is not an elitist. We are ANGRY. We have taken all we can take. Most people in this area do not know how they are going to pay their next bill. The seniors do not take in enough income to survive. The next year will be critical for them. No jobs for our children and grandchildren coming out of college. No gas for our cars. No heat for our homes. Get real Hillary Clinton. WE ARE VERY ANGRY. Attacks like this will only hurt you in the long run.

JosBam   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Oh my god...Obama..u r really in touch..because u really know wht is going on in america..U r just courageous...

Obama 08

annie   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Obamas response, Wolf...EXCELLENT!!

s.positive   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

There is nothing to apologize for and HERE is the problem, the RICH Clintons and Elite McCains cannot see that folks are really fed up with the way things are and it is a deception to think or say otherwise. WHO IS TELLING THE TRUTH about AMERICA now??????

Karen - Branson MO   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Only the Clintons and McCain would spin this into offending remarks. For God's sake...Obama is right! We ARE bitter...and Hillary and McCain are the ones who are out of touch!!!

I'm so sick of "he said she said he said" and "apologize" and on and on and on and on....STOP!

On the other hand, the more the Clintons and McCain talks...the more ridiculous they appear to the American public.

Sarah   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I love Obama...

Obama 08...!

Bart   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I was raised with small town values of hope and optimism, but Obama hit the nail on the head. I'm bitter that Washington has done nothing to help us for decades. I'm bitter that I'm paying more and more for health care, fuel, energy, and what I need to survive while those in Washington continue to rake in money from pharmaceudical, oil, and energy companies just to keep things the way they are.

Washington has been hurting us for decades. And, yeah, I'm a little bitter about that.

John from Las Vegas   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Go OBAMA! Don't let these hacks put words in your mouth. We all know exactly what you meant. Voters ARE bitter and they have every right to be. Outsourced jobs (Clinton), an illegal war (Bush, Cheney) and the potential future conflict with Iran (loose cannon McCain) not to mention 4 dollar a gallon gas.

Pennsylvania is waking up just in time. Vote for Obama and lets beat McCain in November!

Doug, Florida   April 11th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Silly season in Politics

Go Obama

Allen in NC   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

He is 100% correct...... It took over a decade and hillary to run for president, Before the american people finally are getting to see what really happened to all our jobs...... Can we all say NAFTA?.... Bill's baby that hillary supports.... This is why we/the american people are BITTER...... Bitter at politians such as the clintons....

go away   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is just a slick wealthy politician who has a sense of entitlement and little respect for the hard-working people of America.

He appeals to the easily impressed American Idol youth who have way too much time and money on their hands.

Talk about elitism and arrogance.

Lovely in VA   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

He's absolutely right on everything he said. Glad he gave a quick response and now we can get back to Billary's lies and coverups! Funny how Obama's statement was made almost a week ago but just now making news and it's such a HUGE disgrace per Clinton/McCain. Right... If it was sooo HUGE, why wasn't it a headliner last Sunday night.
Go away Clintons/McCains – NO ONE except the 'out of touch' crowd want you around, listening to your lies and stupid, idiotic comments. You guys are the ones 'OUT OF TOUCH'. Get a clue... your both nothing more than corrupting empty suits.

OBAMA 08 –
YES WE WILL, BRICK BY BRICK, BLOCK BY BLOCK

Wanda, Tacoma   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I don't think the issue is not so much whether or not the people of Pennsylvania are bitter. This issue is a man running for President and working to get the votes to make that happen had the audacity to call them bitter. You don't call people names when you want their support.

Bill Clinton said to people "I feel your pain" when he ran for President and we believed him. We don't believe an elitest man named Obama feels our pain. Hillary does feel pain that people have to live with these days, but she also looks through that pain and sees the faith, courage and support those people have to believe that better days will come when she becomes our next President.

Melissa   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Barack-in my small Pennsylvania town the steel industry went away during the regan administration not the Bush and Clinton years when you were about 18. CNN said Obama is "so intouch" he lived in Indonesia-he knows what it is like to grow up poor.
We're not bitter, we're not frustrated. We have survived and found new ways to make a living. Health care and higher education are two areas-did you know that since you are so in touch?

Di   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama, you're a wolf in sheeps clothing, but the truth is now surfacing daily in the Rezko trial notes...you really should pick your frends a lot better, bone head. You are a liar and cheat and you do not deserve to be a junior senator, never mind running for PRESIDENT! You mix wih crooks and biggots and your "chickens are coming home to roost"...I'm sure your pastor Wright with pray for you, but do nt expect the people to vote for you.

Lisa, AR   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I guess the media thinks we are ignorant or stupid. Are people not losing or have losted their jobs???? Or are we not heading for , if not already, in a recession? This man is telling the truth. I live in small town America and there is definitely bitterness and resentment. We have been fed so many lies throughout the years, we can't stand to hear the truth. Wake-up
America!!!!!!!
He should not apologize for telling the truth. As far as I know, PA is a part of the USA and the rest of America is in trouble. The trouble started with leaders like Bush and Clinton(NAFTA). The truth hurts. We don't need leaders that lie or ignore the TRUTH!!!!!!

GO OBAMA!!!!!!!

Carolyn   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I agree with Obama.

Obama 08

ROY COLLINS   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

This is much to do about nothing.... Senator Obama spoke the truth... people turn to religon when things are bad financially and in their social life.... look at our history, if you so dare.

PA Voter   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is right. I myself make under 75K and I am bitter with the Bush's and the Clinton's. And I know if the McCain's get in the White House, I will be bitter at them also.

Gail   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Context is everything, but the media never provides it .Though his words now are not exactly as they were in the clip provided by the media , he fleshed out exactly what he meant and you know I believe him. Why? Because unlike Hillary he hasn't lied about sniper fire and unlike Mc Cain he hasn't trade his integrity for a nomination.

Dave   April 11th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is condescending because he said people are bitter?? I am bitter because of high gas prices. I am bitter because of our economic crisis. I don't think he is looking down us. I think he is respecting our feelings and emphatizing with us. This surely tells me Hillary and McCain are out of touch with the average American citizen.

Hillary and party, please stop twisting the words of Obama, it just makes you look worse. I am disgusted with Hillary and her comments.

busterdog   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Grasping at straws once again! How utterly ridiculous of Hillary to make such a big deal. And, McCain saying Obama is out of touch? That is equally as ridiculous as Obama is nore in touch with Americans than either of them. Having many friends in Pennsylvania, the truth of the matter is that they are Indeed "bitter!" That was not a negative comment it was one which accurately describes how many Pennsylvanias feel and Obama told it like it is. Does Hillary realize (most likely not and she could care less) how stupid she is looking?

lol   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

obama's just upset with PA because he losing in PA. hillary will win PA. he can't win the big states against her, let alone mccain in november if he is the nominee. stay in the race hillary, his elitist attitude is showing.

Jack   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Obama's not being condescending to anyone. He's addressing the burdens laid onto us all through media; they way certain ideals are celebrated and discussed. Ideological stances –and using them as political propoganda– are what got Bush into office in '04. It's complex, abstract thought that easily draws fire. It's funny to hear Hillary and McCain have the same responses...just goes to show you how entrenched and reactionary the ol' established guard is. Bush has a 28% approval rating...after 8 years, people are bitter. I am and I have a job. doesn't mean I don't have hope for my country.

Mandi Locke   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Right on, Obama! Clinton and McCain are both grasping for straws and it really makes you wonder if they are on the same side. I mean, doesn't it sound like the same person wrote both of their responses?

What McCain and Clinton really do have in common is the same old tired aproach to politics that hasn't worked in over a decade. It's hard to get it when you eat your cereal every morning with a silver spoon.

Ryan   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

How dumb do McCain and Clinton think we are?

WE ARE BITTER, YOU CLOWNS! AND ITS YOUR FAULT!

George   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

What can we expect Hillary or John McCain to know about frustration and bitterness? When is the last time either one pumped their own gas or missed a mortgage payment? When was the last time a collection agency called and they couldn't answer their phones? McCain flies around in a private jet and Hillary gives $10million to charity. Talk about out of touch.

laura b. (D-GA)   April 11th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

take that Clintain!!

Paula, Brookville Ohio   April 11th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I live in small town Ohio. Yes what Obama says is stating the truth however, I don't own a gun or go to church because I'm frustrated with the way things are in my town or country. I go to church because of my faith and my own morals and values. I don't cling to those things!!! He insulted small town America plain and simple!! This man has very poor judgement to lump small town frustration with owning a gun or going to church! Big case of open mouth insert foot!!

Alex   April 11th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Let's stop twisting words here. Listen to what Obama said and it is clear his comments are condescending. Somehow, middle America is out-of-touch with the San Francisco elite he was speaking to at his fundraising activity last week. It is clear he is not comfortable having to go ask for votes from the "gun", "religion" folks in Pennsylvania.

NObama   April 11th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I WILL NEVER VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA! He's a slimey, two-faced, "do as I say, not as I do" liar!

HILLARY CLINTON 2008 – The ONLY choice for President!

Taif   April 11th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I am sick and tired of political opportunists coming up with crap like this. And, ironically, the people that get taken the most by it are the ones you would think should know better. Now, is it denigrating to be bitter, when your government tells you one thing and does another, or, when your government is peeing on your head and is telling you it's raining? And, with all the shootings this country has experienced in schools and workplaces in recent times, isn't it only right to, at least, acknowledge the underlying causalities? I can only commend Obama for recognizing and empathizing and having the courage to want to do something about it.
Now, here's the man: "I know what’s going on in Pennsylvania. I know what’s going on in Indiana. I know what’s going on in Illinois. People are fed up. They’re angry and they’re frustrated and they’re bitter. And they want to see a change in Washington and that’s why I’m running for President of the United States of America.”

indieskip   April 11th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

Oh my lord, are we really witnessing the melding of Clinton and Mccain supporters on this? I wonder if this is Obama's actual strategy, to fight the Clinton and McCains together.

Angus1000   April 11th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

Obama does not need to apologize..

He was simply being empathetic..

Obama is not a big free trader... He is a religous man..

I think that he was simply describing the plight of the rural midwestern family as he does inner city people...

Obama traveled Illinois often for 12 years..

It is interesting that the Clinton and McCain comments are so similar...

Maybe they corresponded?

Strange says..

I actualy liked Obama's comments.

Yvonne   April 11th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

The Clinton and McCain camps are working this too hard. Barack's rebuttal will be the tape that gets played over and over and few people will disagree with what he said. Clinton and McCain look out of touch by trying to spin this as a diss. Obama = SCORE!

DGW   April 11th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

Took you guys long enough and everyone go to you tube or politico or huffington or daily kos for the full video on the response. Sometimes I wonder if CNN kicks themselves since they run them live.
You should have been first and post the video!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama is the man! He was excellent and McCain and McClinton need to go to bed and let this guy in the White House!

Lou Dobbs take that! and I hope that you run the full video..... YOU BITTER MAN!
Obama 08!

RachelBSW   April 11th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

Obama does understand our hopes, McCain's people didn't seem to listen to Obama's remarks at all. Obama as an elitist is so laughable coming from Mccain!

He should not apologize for this remark. He should acknowledge it as truth, every one is this country has a lot to be bitter about. Let's talk about that.

OBAMA 08

Change   April 11th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

*****vote obama end the drama.****

****mcbush=mclintons****

Kevin, fl   April 11th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

I hope he is done. Him and his wife need to go away. Don't belittle me like that. I would go to your church if I wanted to be belittled

Ltgray   April 11th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

I think Clinton and McCain are truly out of touch with the American people if they don't realize that people are bitter. I think Obama hit the nail on the head. Hillary is grasping at straws. Sometimes I wonder if she is a democrat or republican. John McCain is really out of touch when he says that homeowners should just sink in their foreclosures. It seems to me that the both of them are the elite having so much money between the two. Hillary should decide if she is a democrat or republican.

Eric-Illinois   April 11th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Same old political spin..The great Messiah is out of touch. Instead of just saying he was sorry he has to attack Hillary. When will these Obamacs wake up. He is a slick Chicago style typical pol. Please won't he just get out of the way and let the grownups go to work. We would not be in this mess if he had not been so premature ambitious. His wife's comment about not being proud of this country until he's running for Pres. will be enough for the swiftboaters to eat him alive. Come back to Illinois-we need another shady Emil Jones puppet

Jackie Nb   April 11th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Barack Obama and his supporters are so unbelievably desperately blind!!!! Lord help America if this person wins the Presideny.
McCan or Clinton, get this man out of your way please!!!!!

Texas Girl   April 11th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Hillary,
If you are tired, acourting to Your husband,Bill,as a 60 year old, at 11.00 p.m., how can you answer the phone at 3.00 a.m. ?

HILLARY!   April 11th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

BO needs to apologize to the Pennsylvania citizens........he is such a hypocrite and arrogant elitist......just like his wife.

mark0rz   April 11th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

first comment wooo! =D

go obama, yes i'm bitter too coz i just recently got laid off... tell me the truth instead of lies! thx

Change   April 11th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

vote obama end the drama

Bob   April 11th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

Obama You have the courage to stand up against the washington politics. You said the correct. If I loose my job I feel bitter. Nothig wrong about it. Others are making a political issue for the vote banks. America is sliding to third world country politics.

Johnson Arroyo   April 11th, 2008 10:12 pm ET

Isn't McCain & his wife worth over a $100 million? Isn't Billary the same? Last time I checked, the elitist were the ones with the nine-digit bank accounts.

Edgar   April 11th, 2008 10:12 pm ET

Obama no wonder you have everyone high on kool aid becuase you are on kool aid yourself. How can you know what people are feeling if you are one of the rich politicians in Washington.

Your book made you millions and you gave very little to charity! Be honest with the American people and stop having CNN fight for you.

Americans Obama is not being real! PLEASE WAKE UP!

Terry   April 11th, 2008 10:11 pm ET

I think it's laughable that the two candidates – McCain and Clinton – who are worth over $100 million think that they are more in touch with the average voter in small town USA.

Rock   April 11th, 2008 10:11 pm ET

I understand that people will be bitter, but why say "they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."

"So…they don’t vote on economic [issues?] because they don’t expect anybody’s going to help them," Obama said, adding that they end up voting on issues that include gun rights, gay marriage, and faith.

I think I get it. That's why they vote Republican? All these – gun rights, gay marriage, and faith – are the stronghold of the Republicans.

Chic   April 11th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

What's kinda cool about Obama is he could go into the lies Billary talks about Penn or even her campaign corruption trails that's on hold, but he don't he only campaigns about the American issues.

Thanks for keeping it clean

Karl Shipps   April 11th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

This is the kind of attack that Hillary has to make to keep attention away from the Bill and Hillary Bosnia Lie-athon. Maybe people in small towns that had jobs dry up actually are bitter, but not in the pretend Clinton universe. They should learn how to give speeches and go earn $109M over the course of 7 years. I can't wait till this mendacious, avaricious pair is finally on the sidelines where they belong.

BluecolorworkerinPA   April 11th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

He didn't defend, he is affirming the truth!

john   April 11th, 2008 10:10 pm ET

Obama is an arrogant liar!

I LOVE CNN

USAF Sr. Airman   April 11th, 2008 10:09 pm ET

I'm from Pennsylvania. I lost my civilian job due to outsourcing. I was VERY BITTER. Obama hit the nail on the head. It's not condescending, it accurate.

robin   April 11th, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Keep on taking everybody down with you Hillary. Just sink the whole democratic party. The Clinton legacy is toast.

OlvrWhit   April 11th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

Now now Obama...lets talk about who voted for what. You voted to give the oil companies tax breaks....now your ads in PA lie and say you are against tax breaks for the oil companies.

plain and simple, you said the people in rural PA are bitter, then you said they turned that frustration into an excuse for being bigots...thats condesending and an insult to hard-working americans.

You can't blame your remarks on McCain or Clinton..

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