April 14, 2008
Posted: 03:27 PM ET

From
CNN

Watch part of Sen. Obama's speech Monday.

WASHINGTON (CNN) –- Democrat Barack Obama continued to tweak his explanation of what some in the media are now referring to as "bitter-gate" by saying he now feels his comments have served as a "distraction."

"I regret some of the words I chose," Obama said Monday at The Associated Press annual conference in Washington, D.C., "partly because the way that these remarks have been interpreted have offended some people and partly because they have served as one more distraction from the critical debate that we must have in this election season."

At a closed door fundraiser just over a week ago, the Illinois senator referred to some small-town Pennsylvanians as "bitter" people who "cling to guns and religion."

At the top of his remarks to the crowd, which included a significant number of journalists, Obama made an attempt to turn what he calls his badly-chosen words into a joke.

"I know I kept a lot of you guys busy this weekend with the comments I made last week. Some of you might even be a little bitter about that," he said to soft laughter.

Reading from a prompter, the White House hopeful then began wielding attacks at the presumptive GOP nominee, saying John McCain and the Republicans will use his "bitter" comments "to argue that I'm out of touch" with average Americans.

"I don't blame them for this — that's the nature of our political culture, and if I had to carry the banner for eight years of George Bush's failures, I'd be looking for something else to talk about too," Obama said.

"If John McCain wants to turn this election into a contest about which party is out of touch with the struggles and the hopes of working America, that's a debate I'm happy to have. In fact, I think that's a debate we have to have."

In a response, McCain senior adviser Mark Salter said, “It’s hard to keep a straight face when you’re accused of being out of touch by a guy who thinks the whole country is worried about the high price of arugula or that you hunt ducks with a six shooter.”

Sunday, Obama used harsh words to criticize Hillary Clinton for her attacks on him calling him out of touch with Pennsylvania voters. He mocked her, implying she is falsely creating the image that she's a bigger supporter of gun rights than he is.

"She's talking like she's Annie Oakley! Hillary Clinton's out there like she's on the duck blind every Sunday, [like] she's packin' a six shooter!" Obama said.

The McCain response also draws a parallel to a past Obama faux-pas: at a campaign stop months ago in Iowa, the Illinois senator asked a group of farmers if they'd "gone into a Whole Foods lately and seen what they charge for arugula." Whole Foods is a more upscale grocery chain, and they have no stores in the state of Iowa.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton • John McCain


Stacy Clarks, TX   April 14th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

GO OBAMA!!

THE MEDIA WILL LIKE PEOPLE TO THINK THAT AMERICANS ARE APPAULED BY THIS, BUT WE ARE SPEAKING OUT TO SAY THANK YOU FOR LETTING THIS GOD AWFUL GOVERNMENT KNOW THAT WE ARE NOT HAPPY, AND WE WANT YOU OBAMA!!!

OBAMA 08!!!!!!!!!!

Bill, Albany, NY   April 14th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Its funny how conservatives went nuts after the bitter comment. If a right wing commentator or a politician said something about minority neighborhoods they wouldve said "Deal with it" to liberals who cry foul and moved on. What happened to "You dont have the right not to be offended"

Double Standard anyone?

Libertarian in 08

Kiyomi   April 14th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

This from a man who wants to sit down and have a little chat with the leaders of nations that the US does NOT have friendly relations with and harbors terrorists. Oh gee, I can't wait to see how he fumbles those conversations and what kind of blind second chance those countries give the US. Call them "typical" and "bitter" and let's see where that goes Obama, you can't have a script with you there!

Jacob   April 14th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

If Hillary Clinton is the nominee I will have to hold my nose and vote for McCain

Kay, Charleston, WV   April 14th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

He can make light of his comments all he likes but until he explains exactly how Religion, Guns, Xenophobia, & Racism ever belong in the same list he has not gotten to the heart of the offensive nature of his comments.

Venus   April 14th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Go for it Obama! Heck Hillary laughed about the snipper shots on Jay Leno -

HILLARY LIED TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE!!   April 14th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

How could ANYBODY support Hillary after she said she got shot at in Bosnia and the video got released PROVING SHE LIED?!?!??!??

I AM SO DISSAPOINTED IN AMERICANS WHO SUPPORT HILLARY. It makes me literally SICK.

Ridgeway   April 14th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

The only comment he should regret is (sic) " I am running for President of the United States." Although it is nice to watch him make Hillary sweat. She's earned it.

Joe Smith   April 14th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Mr. Obama if your not elected in Jan - I will move to Canada

SNOBama   April 14th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

This man is Seriously not qualifed to be President if he thinks a comment like that is only a "Distraction"

Helene   April 14th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Obama is quite right. The media is manipulating us and making sure that we are distracted from real issues, like poverty, recession, war, etc …
Hillary C. has lost the nomination. She should concede defeat honorably and gracefully … if she can.

jd   April 14th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

You are right Barack, A distraction named BILLARY BITTERNEST BECAUSE YOU ARE WINNING. OBAMA/08

SN from MN   April 14th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Distraction! Hardly! His true feelings and attitudes slipped out in an unguarded moment. He's done.

Cat, Costa Mesa, CA   April 14th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Unfortunately it's too late to start this thing over.

Can we start the primary over again and get all three yahoos off the stumping block? They're not fit to run a chicken coup let alone the country!

Tennessee   April 14th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

"Barack (McGovern) Obama" in '08. Republicans must be very happy!

Jim Shimmer   April 14th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Hillary is a liar. She truly is.
Mccain is a fool.

Venus   April 14th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

YES! John McCain has a HUGE banner to carry after Bush! And, I am not worried about him winning! He can't! Too many Americans are bitter about jobs, food, gas, and heating oil!!! Hell John doesn't even have any plans yet! Who cares about his book or his stats- about a war? Bring the troops home and let's get Americans-back to building and working!

Claude Calgary AB   April 14th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Obama is doing the rite thing and proving to the world that he is the best canidate to lead Democrats in the next election. I wish Obama would have handled the Red phone ad the same way. This is the best approach to deflecting the kitchen sink tactic and staying on board with his message.

akaDoug   April 14th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

It's always silly season for the Hillary campaign…they can pull their head out of the sand quick enough to see that she is in trouble!

NickNas   April 14th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Obama IS treating this like the silly situation that it really is. The People of PA are NOT stupid and they know what he meant. In fact I have yet to see any REAL people not affiliated with the Billary camp say they were offended PERIOD.

NOW before one of you paid bloggers claim to be" lil ms PA hurtfeelings" I will require PROOF ok? I am not a Hillabot and we need FACTS. We dont just believe everything we are told like you people often do.

Dem08   April 14th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

First, Obama made those remarks and has spent the weekend trying to explain what he said.

We have the audio, that he was not aware of. We know what he said and what he meant, not the new spun version by his campaign. Obama is attacking because he knows that he called millions of rural americans bigots who cling to guns and religion. He did not say people turn to religion in a time of need. He said they use it as an excuse. Obama is lying. His supporters are distorting.

This man has proven himslef to be arrogant and condesending. When he made those remarks, the laughter in the background is disturbing. Ask yourself why Obama did not discuss this on the campaign trail, until it was an issue.

He is now distorting Clinton's record and acting childish by calling her Annie Oakley. He makes fun of her in a bar when just a few weeks ago he was in a bar, downing a beer for all to see, then went bowling.

Barack Obama has used retoric to drive this election. He can not apologize, he can not admit he is wrong. Well Obama, you are wrong.
People are defending him on the word "bitter", but bitter was not what he said.

KNOW YOUR CANDIDATE   April 14th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

one question:

why did obama lie and say he didnt make these comments all week long and only admitted to them when the audio was released to the media?

obama is doing damage control because like the speech on race, he's been backed into a corner.

Susan MO   April 14th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Obama is now trying to laugh off what he said to the people of Pennsylvania, making it sound unimportant. To us, that is being even more critical & rude to the people of Pennsylvania.

SHAME ON OBAMA……..we thought about you at first, but not after you slammed Pennsylvania people.

Now For Hillary Clinton

Allen, Lubbock, TX   April 14th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Ridgeway — how did Hillary earn it? did she fight for every state and caucus? or did she think she was going to win, start losing and now throwing the kitchen sink to try and win something that she should have won….if she had tried!
i call that arrogance and she got just whaat she deserved

Angela   April 14th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

When Senator Clinton steps in it - it is proof that she can't be trusted?

Why is it that when Obama steps in it - it is merely a distraction?

It is not a distraction - it is proof of an inxperienced politician, once again making a blunder, and providing the republicans with more material for the general.

Lee WV   April 14th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

He should make light of it because there was nothing to it.The only people making a deal of it are politicians and news media.There was nothing he said that wasnt' true.

Cynthia   April 14th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

It is truly a joke that people can't see what Senator Clinton is doing - she is trying to keep the spot light on a small misspeak so people won't be examing what Bill Clinton is doing on the down low , example the $800,000 for a speaking engagement, saying that she was tired whe she made her speech at 11:00 at night, and so on and so on.

Maxine   April 14th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Everthing Obama said was correct. People are mad and why shouldn't we? Gas is high there are no jobs available and Health
Care is through the roof - But Hiliary said he should like an Elitist.
Because you ou tell the truth, you have to be labled some stupid name
that doesn't even apply. The talking head on the news always give their opinion not the Opinion of the American People. I would once like the New Media to just stop and ask ther average person on the street how they feel and find out that they are mad. Anyone who dosen't know that is not living in a the real world

vince - phoenix   April 14th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

JESUS!!

say no to the 3 headed candidate   April 14th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

about time he stands up to the clinton machine, what will it take for the rest of the democrats to see who the clintons are??

incredible

Hillary and McCain one and the same

oops a 4 headed candidate……………

PA voter   April 14th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

it's all a big joke to obama

get this self centered egotistical prick out of the race now!

big_puppy   April 14th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Hillary and McCain are both taking advantage of Obama not wanting to get into the gutter with them. But some time soon Obama is going to smack the hell out of them just to get their attention. You have a pair of bookends, a liar and a cheapier, now that is low and how low can you go.
But you know what is even worse, the H& M combo have campaign people just looking for dirt like there's not enough to talk about, the economy, health care, the WAR and our young men and women dying. This spin they are doing don't make them look any better.

Madison , PA   April 14th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Hillary uses theses word to distract people for her lies: Bosnian trip, Columbia trade, Mark penn, her income… and so more. Bill was right to say at her age(60) at at 11:00 PM she is tired and usually mispoke … Can she be able to answrer a phone at 3:00AM and make a good judgement… I don't think so… Bill her husband knows her much better than us… Do no make a mistake to vote for her…

EMMA CARTER BROOKS   April 14th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

$109 Million + 2 Clintons = Elitist

Shame on you Sen. Clinton, it only takes one million to become a millionaire and you have one hundred and nine. What does that make you? I believe it makes you an"Elitist Millionaire Hypocrite"! LOL!

Stop the nonsense Sen. Clinton!

rice, bryan   April 14th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

if you are making better than 300,000.00 a year, own your outsourcing business, hire immigrants, then i guess you wouldn't be bitter either. but if you lost your job, make minimum wage now when you used to make a good living. watched your job go over seas, while this government works on more free trade agreements. watch more people come across our borders still illegally. watch your retirements funds disappear, and see how the white collar employers make more and more. why wouldn't anyone be bitter. i think obama hit the nail on the head. mcbush's wife can look the other way to the poor of this country. by the way she is the definition of corporate greed.

Wayne   April 14th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

2 wars, 4 dollar per gallon gas, recession, health care crisis, New Orleans remains in shambles, we cant protect our borders, our public schools are failing, companies are shipping jobs over seas…What is the media circus about today..

OMG…OBAMA SAID VOTERS ARE BITTER BECAUSE THEYVE LOST THEIR JOBS!!!!!

Corporate controlled journalism has failed…this country is looking more like a failure every day. Perhaps we DESERVE Bush. We dont DESERVE Barack Obama. We're not worthy of that kind of leadership.

Chris   April 14th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Hillary is such a liar. All of a sudden, her lies on NAFTA, Colombia Trade deals, her husbands funds from Colombia, her hospital lies and her charitable donation to herself are all gone. How noble of her.

Hillary may have a chance to run again if she stops lying now. Goodbye Hillary. Obama is doing well in polls. Gallup poll has Obama with a strong 10 point lead over Hillary.

Obama for President.

Now for Obama   April 14th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

These "bitter" remarks are nothing compared to Bill Clinton's racist remarks in 1991 and 1992 during his campaign.

The reason (George H. W. Bush's tactic) works so well now is that you have all these economically insecure white people who are scared to death," Clinton was quoted saying by the Los Angeles Times in September 1991.

Clintons are irresponsible hypocrites

Obama or no one
Will never vote for a Clinton!

bakersfield   April 14th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

THIS GUY IS A TRIP HE NEEDS A TELEPROMTER SO HE DOESN'T SCREW UP. SOMEBODY TELL HIM WHAT TO SAY PLEASE.

Dennis   April 14th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Never OBAMA!!!! —- NOBAMA for all the "WRIGHT" reasons

sd   April 14th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Obama’s self described qualifications for the Presidency as “college trip to Pakistan and living overseas.”

Obama: “[F]oreign policy is the area where I am probably most confident that I know more and understand the world better than Senator Clinton or Senator McCain.” (Mayhill Fowler, “Obama: No Need For Foreign Policy Help From V.P.,” The Huffington Post, http://www.huffingtonpost.com, 4/7/08

Obama: “One thing I’m very confident about is my judgment in foreign policy is, I believe, better than any other candidate in this race, Republican or Democrat.” (Jake Tapper, “Obama: ‘Better Judgment’ On Foreign Policy,” ABC News, 7/25/07)

Obama: “What I was drawing on [in dealing with Iraq] was a set of experiences that come from a life of living overseas, having family overseas, being able to see the world through the eyes of people outside our borders.” (Jake Tapper, “Obama: ‘Better Judgment’ On Foreign Policy,” ABC News, 7/25/07)

OBAMA’S TOP 5 FOREIGN POLICY CREDENTIALS

Foreign Policy Credential #1

Obama Lived Overseas From Ages 6 To 10. (Linda Matchan, “A Law Review Breakthrough,” The Boston Globe, 2/15/90)

Foreign Policy Credential #2

In January, Obama noted his degree in “International Relations” when discussing his foreign policy credentials.

Obama: “[M]y experience in foreign policy is probably more diverse than most others in the field. … You know, I majored in international relations.” (ABC’s “Good Morning America,” 1/24/07)

What a joke obama

Jed in Texas   April 14th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Hillary supporters remind me of the 18% that still believe in Bush lies.

Ann Green   April 14th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Out Of Touch - Any candidate who thinks 81% of Americans are HAPPY when they agree this country is headed in the wrong direction!

Please people, we fell for the gay marriage non-issue already in '04, and look where that got us.

Let's not fall for this 'bitter' non-issue in '08.

Phong Nguyen   April 14th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

In the CNN show last night on Faith in Politics, S. Obama jokingly referred to Rev. Wright’s episode as Rev. Wright’s “greatest hit,” which shows S. Obama’s insensitive side. Rev. Wright’s racial remarks are not a laughing matter! His joking reference trivializes his explanation for Rev. Wright’s racial remarks. His linking the bitterness and frustration of small town people and their guns and religion shows that he is out of touch with small town people and it faintly reminds me of Rev. Wright’s attitude!

Emmanuel, Chicago IL. Obama 08   April 14th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

SN from MN you said he was done with the Rev. Wright story.

Sorry your opinion dosen't hold more weight.

Obama 08

Dee   April 14th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Joe Smith, get packing. I'll help you if you need help moving to Canada

Meredith   April 14th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Come on, people! I'm not saying that it was OK for him to say that, but do we have to have it in the news every day for a week? I don't get it. We all know about it know. We can digest and discuss on our own. Having it the news every day since then IS A DISTRACTION.

Now, instead of having Barack and Hillary debate important issues, they are sniping at each other back and forth over this.

JR Texas   April 14th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

All I can say, his True Colors, a racist remark about whites in general. Nothing more can be added……

Jermaine   April 14th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Hillary will not be President at least not this year, MC-BUSH (Mcshame Mccain old fart) will NEVER be President.

OBAMA is going to trounce him in the general. I am happy the media isn't vetting Mccain and his staff, they will be in for a rude wakeup call at 2AM in the mornin g in Sepetember, October and November. The good thing I thank GOD for Hillary and Bill, they are making OBAMA tough skinned and READY to rumble in the jungle of AMERICA.

I want OBAMA to ask Hillary to be his VP, SHE WILL Accept and I KNOW TOGETHER WE ALL WILL "CHANGE AMERICA"!

BUSH-MCCAIN NO MORE
"I don't blame them for this — that's the nature of our political culture, and if I had to carry the banner for eight years of George Bush's failures, I'd be looking for something else to talk about too," Obama said.

"If John McCain wants to turn this election into a contest about which party is out of touch with the struggles and the hopes of working America, that's a debate I'm happy to have. In fact, I think that's a debate we have to have."

Pol   April 14th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I am so hopeful that PA has an historical opportunity to bury and stop disgusting attempts of lying Family to return to White House which they disgraced.

This is a test, Pennsylvania! Be smart and brave!

canadian observer   April 14th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Hopefully Americans will realize what you have as a potential leader in Barack Obama. You are extremely fortunate. His message of hope is resonating all the way up North. He is refreshing, unique and one-of-a-kind in this lifetime. He has not waivered from his message. He is a different kind of politician. Open your eyes and minds and take this opportunity for your country!!

Dennis   April 14th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Never OBAMA!!!! —- NOBAMA for all the "WRIGHT" reasons

ryan indiana   April 14th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

How is Obama elitist?

Single parent mom raised him - food stamps and all, lived in Indonesia as a kid (last time I checked not an elitist country), mom died at a young age from ovarian cancer and Obama moved in with grandparents, first job at Baskin Robbins, worked with churches in Southside Chicago after college, etc.

Sound elitist to you?

Must be that having a $109 million, a husband who is former president, and a second childhood cottage home in Pennsylvania, etc. makes you one of the common people, huh?

Julie, Small Town American   April 14th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Someone help me here, I'm trying to find the humor in this situation. Guess I need a Harvard grad to explain it to this simpleton who only has a 4 year degree from a state college. I do have a shotgun tho that I faithful haul to church every Sunday, never know when I'll have an antipathetic fit.

Paul   April 14th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

With everything he has said, written and done which paint a totally different picture from this one tiny quote, one sentence hardly serves as a window into his true feelings. Get past the sound bite and really listen to him.

keith Fox   April 14th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

No apologies, Obama. Speak the truth, the facts and don't look back. Go Nader '08.

fred-roanoke   April 14th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Hillary has lost all credibility with her bosnia story. Barack will bring this country back to respectability and give americans a sense of pride again. For the first time since the kennedy administration I feel there is hope for all of us.

sherrie50   April 14th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Continue to keep your head in the sand Obama supporters. I feel sad for you as it will be an awakening.

YO   April 14th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I've been bitter since W took office.

henry   April 14th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

But what has Barack Obama accomplished that entitles him to look down on his fellow Americans? - William Kristol, NY Times, April 14, 2008

Ca Native   April 14th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Don't apologize for being an elitist, Obama. You're private school upbringing, Havard-educated, liberal-media darling experience only reinforces your political entitlement outlook.

You can't help it. It's just who you are.

Mike   April 14th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Obama wants to be "America's Darling." The teflon Prince that nothing sticks to.

He slips up, his pastor slips up, his wife slips up and then "oops, I made a mistake."

Mirage, phoney, fake, liar etc…more to come from this loser.

Nobama is simply an empty suit!

Go Hillary!!!!

Never Vote Obama   April 14th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Absolutely. I agree Keith. Listen to "everything he [Obama] has said, written, and done" and I would never vote for him.

OBAMA4PRES   April 14th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Who cares!! They try and find anything on him!!! I'm still voting for him in NOV!!

G.F.Jones   April 14th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

I am not just bitter. I am angry at the way this country has been mishandled by the currant "leadership "LOL. I have a right to my feelings and when Obama recognizes the feelings most of us share this is called empathy and is not a put down. Good Grief!!

Harry Moyer   April 14th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Why are all the news organizations still harping on this "bitter" remark when we have another racist republican, Kentucky Rep. Geoff Davis, calling Barack a "snake oil salesman" and a "boy"??? Obama is around 46 years old, (my own age), and I don't believe he'd be calling my white behind "boy". It's pretty obvious that calling a black man "boy" is almost as bad as using the "N" word. It reminds me of a question posed to McBush the other day asking him if he realizes that he's going to benefit from some folks that just won't vote for Obama because of their prejudices. McBush responded by saying that he didn't believe that would be the case. Talk about "out of touch"!!!!

Pennsylvania Voter   April 14th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Shows what a decent, Christian gentleman Obama is!

Elizabeth   April 14th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

So, Obama, what do you plan to do about it? All these observations on what is wrong and you say you want to change things. What are you going to change and what are you going to change them to?

Miss Belief   April 14th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

81% of America says they don't like were we are headed, so let's change course. Only one candidate is best able to do that.

Barack Obama speaks the truth but America doesn't want to hear the truth.

Jack   April 14th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

People have not seen this whole "bitter American" comment from the correct perspective I don't think. Most of America is very bitter about how America is being run in Washington and the thing is it is not just Pennsylvania. Many people in several states feel that they cannot be lead by an honest government. The only way to change that perspective and train of thought is to voice the correct opinion that everyday Americans have and that we as a society are "bitter". We as a nation are tired of having leaders in Washington tell us one thing and then give us another. If there is candidate that will honestly listen to Americans and not just try to win votes, I believe, will be the best candidate for our nation's presidency.

Phillip G. CA   April 14th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

I don't think the Pennsylvanians are offended by the comments…..in a recent speech, Hillary Clinton was booed and jeered for trying to use those comments to demonize Barack Obama.

I would be curious to see what the Pennsylvanians have to say, not what the news pundits think they are feeling. It sometimes feels like the pundits are making the calls in this election and not the people.

CNN, could you please do some investigating on this and see what the people think? I'd be curious to see a poll on this.

Pooh496   April 14th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

It wasn't just his offensive comments that were wrong, but also the reaction he got from his well connected crowd of rich donors.

They were laughing at all of his insensitive remarks like it was all a big joke. Small town people are proud and should not become the punch line in order to drum up money!!

SHAME on you Barack Obama, SHAME on you!!!!!

jimmy vekmen   April 14th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Obama cannot win. Michelle Obama can forget about the white house.. evrey American worth his salt has heard everything they said about America..

KOR   April 14th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I don't want Obama's finger on the button either. After all, he pushed the wrong button twice in the Illinois Senate, coincidentally sparing himself from taking a stand on the casino issue–an issue on which he had promised two different things to two different groups. Sound familiar?

Denis For NOBAMA   April 14th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA ! NOBAMA !

ray   April 14th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

poeple want change we are tired of struggling,no jobs, high prices effecting everyone.tired of seing the same old people in office doing nothing but pocketing their money.

bitter in IN   April 14th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Barack Obama was right! I'm bitter as H*LL after having my job sent over seas!!! Meanwhile Hilliary just laughs off questions about Columbia! Barack, dont stop telling the truth, We are with you!!!

Harry Moyer   April 14th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Shame on all of you losers that are grasping at any possible thing to bring your candidate into the White House. That's one thing that is wrong with this country, "poor losers". When I was growing up you did yourself a serious disservice by not being gracious to the winner. But in this day and age it's all about ones self. Obama isn't going to be able to wave a magic wand and everything is going to be fixed, but I feel at least he'll try.

Jenny, TX   April 14th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Don't try to flip flop your own words, Mr. Words. We are wise enough to know what you meant.

OlvrWhit   April 14th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Ramussen has already done a poll. 56% think he was wrong.

Obama should be applauded for politics as usual as he has spun his own distasteful remarks and completely ignored that he called many americans bigots.

Arrogant, un-apologetic and condesending.. Obama's true self is coming out and you all know it.

ObamaSupporter   April 14th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Please google "The company Obama keeps". Read the article and have Obama spin the story too.

DF   April 14th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

OBAMA supporters don't have their heads buried in the sand, they have their heads buried somewhere else where the sun doesn't shine!!!! NOBAMA for all the "Wright" reasons

typical bitter white woman packing a bible   April 14th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

The true person rarely comes outin the open with most people ,but we have gotten a glimpse not once but twice with this bigot. Clinton is clearly the only clear choice to vote for. Hillary, we love you and you will make the best president ever.

Now for Obama   April 14th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

I'm just curious as to what Hill's supporters are going to do when Barack becomes president??? Move out of the country, commit suicide, start a riot??? You should all start making plans now, because a CHANGE IS COMING!

Joel   April 14th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Why are the democrats wasting their time in Pennsylvania? Do they seriously care about that state? It has absolutely no redeeming qualities and will be but a state full of ghost towns when the rest of the people who live there finally wise up and finally leave it.

typical bitter white woman packing a bible   April 14th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

obama fans bury their heads and minds to the bigotry he speaks and now they try to make excuses for this bigot.

typical bitter white woman packing a bible   April 14th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

The only change I see is a change back to the race riots of the 60's

Big Tex   April 14th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is the reason why Bill Clinton had and is still having so many Affairs , wouldn't you. Just think about waking up and looking at that face

candi   April 14th, 2008 6:05 pm ET

What the press and other candidates failed to realize is that the American people are in fact bitter. We are bitter about how the past 8 years has gone with the governments attack on us economically and emotionally. We are bitter and with good cause.

Mary   April 14th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

I was shocked to hear how your detractors have made an issue of this 'bitter'. The first time it was discussed with the best political team on tv, Gloria and Tubin expressed their disappointment at Sen Clinton's reaction to Obama's statement. Obama did not mean any harm by his remarks and I hope Americans can see through the lines and know who really cares for them and who has also had a hard time in the early parts of their lives.
Sen Obama should not loose sleep over this. It will turn out to favor him.

H.B.Nielsen   April 14th, 2008 6:07 pm ET

while I am not from Pa.(Dayton,Oh.) I am BITTER. Having to vote for what I consider the lesser of two evils every four years.

Independent-woman-voter-for-Obama   April 14th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY OBAMA'S COMMENTS ARE BEING DRAGGED THROUGH THE MUD?! It TRUE that people are BITTER! ITS TRUE that SOME PEOPLE CLING TO GUNS because they are afraid that their rights will be trampled.

Its SAD that WE, Americans, can not HEAR the TRUTH! Let's get over ourselves, set aside our EGOS so we can discussed the REAL ISSUES, like 10 TRILLION in DEBT, the mess in Iraq, the economy and the growing number of our children who are dropping out of school!

Tony   April 14th, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Billary uses pardons for votes to get elected to the Senate, but proclaims to be the ethical one?

Billary makes $800,000 off of the columbia trade agreement and $300,000 for her campaign strategist, and helped push NAFTA through, but somehow stands up for workers against free trade?

Billary is tough on terrorism while her husband commuted the sentence of terrorists to get her elected in NY?

Billary tells you that Obama is elitist, while she thinks Arkansas isn't good enough to run for Senate and instead moves to NY to sip lattes on her hundred million dollar fortune?

Billary has proven she will say anything (sniper fire, hunting) and do anything (play with election rules, pardons for votes) to gain power, but won't change anything as the people of PA can tell you as they continued to watch jobs leave rural America for overseas under the Clinton presidency while they took jobs as cashiers at Walmart instead of good paying factory jobs.

North Carolina   April 14th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

You'll be eating your words come the general, loser. Check out SavagePolitics.com for the REST of Obama's recorded comments. Bitter isn't the issue here.

Lee-- Dallas, TX   April 14th, 2008 6:13 pm ET

Bitter… Really? Why would we be bitter? Maybe it’s because the bankers who offered predatory loans are now "retiring" with multi-million dollar packages? Maybe it’s because we are struggling to pay our mortgages while the banks get bailed out by DC? Maybe it’s because our jobs have been shipped overseas, some by Bill Clinton. Yes, we are bitter, and there is nothing "elitist" about speaking the truth!

Still can't figure out what was untrue or false about what Barack said. It's just like most American's not to like what we see when we are shown ourselves in a mirror that reflects what truly is before someone is able to cover it up with falsehoods.

It's good to have a candidate tell America exactly what it needs to hear. It appears to me that his rivals are a little 'bitter' that they didn't expound on this issue first.

Ultimately, we all have reasons to be embittered, having seen our government hijacked by those who seem entirely divorced from our aspirations. Small towns are occupied by some of those who deserve to be most frustrated of all. Barack Obama recognizes that our bitterness is not cured by ignoring it or dismissing it. It is cured by talking about it — and working to replace it with hope.

Ronda in Oregon   April 14th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

We can all move forward when Obama and his supporters admit they are "bitter" also! If everyone in America was given the opportunity to correct their statements two and three times we would all be great speakers.

Catperson   April 14th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

Congratulations to commenter "Chris": You are the first one to spell "Colombia" correctly!

Ted   April 14th, 2008 6:16 pm ET

Isn't the fact that he bowled a 37 all you really need to know?

Demo Craxy   April 14th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

I dont know about the rest of voters, but I am exhausted of listenign and hearing billary every day in CNN

just to listen to her is demeaning, belittling, and just plain exhausting…….if not insulting and I am a regular woman and voter……
not an elitist, i just want something different from same old same old, polictis,

HP Boston   April 14th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Obama is getting the sweats, he is sweating his cance at the GE! The supers have to be smarter than than the bots and KNOW he can not win the GE!

W   April 14th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

As Nutter said - Al Quaida wouldn't last 5 minutes in West Phila. Personally, I don't think BHO would either.

Erik   April 14th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

$10.9 Million per year avrage income for the past ten years and Clinton calls OBAMA an elitist?

Jan in Virginia   April 14th, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Please Obama. She attacks you on what you say and the issue. You resort to name calling. How juvenile can you get! You have become such a whiner.

So typical of you to make a joke about your comments with the "boys". The old "good ole boy" network is still alive….

ObamaSupporter   April 14th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Every time thngs do not work out the way Obama wants, he blames it on Hillary for playing politics. How clever!!!

Rj   April 14th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

"J U S T W O R D S"

Pennsylvanian are "BITTER PEOPLE!!!"

I kind'a remember when Obama said That
"WORDS DOES MATTER…."

Ro   April 14th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Bitter??? Jobs moving to other countries…..
Bitter??? $4 a gallon for gas….
Bitter??? over 4000 kids killed in a stupid war….
Bitter??? cost of feeding a family going up every day…..
Bitter??? A pres and vp who couldn't care less what the American people think…..
Bitter??? Hell yes!!!!!!

Obama is the only choice in 08

PA Hick Chick   April 14th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Did NObama really think you hunted ducks with a 6-shooter?
hahahaha
Yeh - and I sip my latte grande with a sippy cup

BOG in Mississippi   April 14th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

I was truly sadden by the comments made by Lou Dobbs regarding Obama being an elitists. That is soooo not genuine of him. The media is playing this up soooo much because they don't have anything more news worthy to report on. Let it go, let it go. We are ready to hear about something else… More on the issues not on a political side shows of canidates making each other look bad just to win votes. If the news media wants to hang on words then they need to stay with Hilary's words about Bosnia. We are all smart enough to look at Obama's life growing up at a child and say to all that has slammed him….. "GET REAL".

Ronda in Oregon   April 14th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Who Am I? I am a Typical White Person I am a Devisive Woman I am a Gun Toter I am a Church Goer I am a Disenfranchised Voter I am a "Bitter Citizen" Does Obama know? I am a G.D.American and have always been proud of it!!

barb Canada   April 14th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

I keep seeing Obama supporters say well it's true, I am bitter…….Well I guess the Media must be easy on Obama, cause it's not about the bitter, it's his other hateful remark! Antipathy extreme dislike or hatred………do you recall the line where he said people cling to their Antipathy for people who are different from them??? Well if you do then start saying…..Obama is right, I am Racist!

Patrick   April 14th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

John McCain, proof why America ranks 30th in Education.

ObamaSupporter   April 14th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Please google "Obama's Billionaire Backing". Read it and ask Obama how he raised his record-breaking campaign funds. Did he say they're from small donors?????

C. C. Wallace   April 14th, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Why is it that the media continues its attempts to hang the candidates by taking their words out of context? Similar to the Jeremiah Wright issue that fizzled when main stream American heard the entire sermon, the media continues its relentless hammering of misrepresentation and are doing the same with this so called "bitter" issue. Be fair by playing the entire speeches from which these sound bites are taken so that America is privy to the complete message and draw its conclusions based on the facts, not by what is taken out of context and decisively spoon fed and fueled by the media.

k.m.k.   April 14th, 2008 6:30 pm ET

I really wish some investigative reporter would check out the women who taped these remarks in San Fran. I bet her bank account has grown in the week she waited to release the tapes to the media!!!!

Paul   April 14th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

VOTE TRULY DEMOCRAT
VOTE FOR CLINTON AND SUPPORT THE MOST EXPERIENCED CANDIDATE AT THIS TIME
WE JUST HAD ENOUGH FROM OBAMA'S DEMEANING WORDS. BTWY, HE JUST DISENFRANCHISED FLA, MICHIGAN AND DARED TO LOOKED DOWN AT MILLIONS OF AMERICANS. WE ARE NOT FRUSTRATED, THAT HATRED BELONGS TO YOU AND YOUR PASTOR MR OBAMA.

HILLARY-WE ARE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY!!!
HILLARY, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!

Sandy Hagan   April 14th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Come on, what he said was true. I knew what he meant. I am one of the people that never did much in the political aspect because I never felt compelled to, until now. He inspires me and I hope he makes it. I have not had real hope for the last eight years and now I do. I wish I had the money to donate for his cause. I get my social security tomorrow and I just might send him a few dollars.

Tom   April 14th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

It's not funny (expletive)!! First your "spiritual advisor" rages at the entirety of America (ok, maybe your wife was first) and now you're doing it - an interesting pattern is emerging and you WILL NOT be allowed to laugh it off or to blame it on Hillary like you already have tried or to turn away from it by trying to defend it with sarcasm and arrogance toward others (Annie Oakley was an incredible shooter and a great example of a strong American woman, neither of which you understand or respect). Yuk it up while you still have time.

Kumi   April 14th, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Of course Hilary is going to use this as a distraction. Than McCain and Hilary are double teaming Obama. She has lied to the public so many times. Obama tells the TRUTH and get slammed by white America. I don't get it. White America rather has someone white lie to their face than a black person telling them the truth. Racism at it fullest. I always find it strange just we get close to the election date a bomb drops on Obama. He was catching up with Hilary on the polls. If this is the only way for Hilary to win by using the White card. I feel sorry for her. A Gallup poll indicates that 80% of Americans feel we are heading in the right direction. Don't tell me these people are happy and merry. People are losing their homes, jobs. Gas prices are sky high and solider are getting killed in the war. Do you really thing Americans are not bitter about these things. I am bitter. I am a single mother of one. I have to health care. I can barely make ends meet. Obama is telling the truth. Win or lose. Obama is a winner in the black community and among some college students. Can you say that about the other candidates? No. You can. Plus, the governor of PA said many white voters aren’t ready for a black man as president. I rather have Obama tell me the truth than like to me like Hilary Rodham Clinton. Go Obma!!! You are in my prayers.

JCB   April 14th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Obama is a millionaire. He is not poor, and he never has been. He is not the person that he tries to claim he is — he is just show for the political circus. In the past two days, he has called Hillary "Annie Oakley" because she stated in Februaury that her father had taken her hunting. She said that in February before he made his big gun blunder in April — April. Now he is making fun of her for drinking a shot in a bar after the bartender offered her one. Wow! He is really trying to stay above the dirty politics now — and failing miserably. The man is a liar and not fit to dust off Hillary's shoes. Stay in there Hill. If the demcrats would count the votes of Florida and Michigan, you would be in the lead. It's Obama and Kennedy that are fighting to steal those votes! Why should he get votes that were not cast for him. Why should she have to split delegates when he did not win those votes. He is dirty!!! Hillary 2008

John, NC   April 14th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Seeing Hillary on TV makes me sick at my stomach.

Donna   April 14th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

barb canada is right on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
if you read the whole transcript and the context he had the relgion and gun cling in the same sentance as bigotry. it was in a negative context.then he really spun it to get out of it and yes 50% of democrats are stupid enough to fall for it.

Vivienne   April 14th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Every single democrat who says that they will not vote for a democrat regardless of who it is in November…. you are stupid.

Unless, you have a very secure job and very secure way of life… you will be totally screwed.

Aparently, you don't believe Colin Powell when he said last week that we can't sustain a war in the middle east much longer. That would be in both places. That is very scary. He has said that we need to build up our military and re-deploy in a smarter way. I can tell you one thing, if you are a kid 18 and older, male or female, you should be very afraid. John McCain is going draft your butts into his fighting Army. And, your parents, or children or spouses, they will be back here in the good USA.

I guarantee…. you will be bitter and you will be clinging to your religion, your guns…..

You family's back home will also be bitter clinging to their religion and their guns all awhile living in a homeless shelter or out in the streets.

Mark my words. Go ahead and be stupid

Art, San Diego,CA   April 14th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Obama cannot have it both ways. He argued persuasively that "Word matter." Accepting that, one also has to acknowledge that the risk of inserting one's foot in one's mouth goes up considerably once one places such a premium on words. The surprising thing is how frequently this is occurring.

William   April 14th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

I live In PA and don't know one Obama supporter. We support HIllary and if she's not nominated it will be McCain for us.

Ardnuas   April 14th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

All SMART people UNDERSTAND that we DO cling to the things Barack said when we have lost our jobs. Barack is right, he just said it the wrong way…..FORGIVE him…..We are a forgiving people, thats what makes America so GREAT!!!!

clara   April 14th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

you men are you going to let somebody like oboma take your guns and religion and every thing you stand for. this is america not africa or were ever he came from i think he's the antichrist and making everone think he's wounderful vote hillary not oboma

Tyler   April 14th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Stop apoligizing, the voters know what you meant

OBAMA 2008

clara   April 14th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

i think alot of people on here that are leaving comments are from obomas church and rev. wright and his wife let see if you put this commit up so others can see it i bet u won't

Harry Moyer   April 14th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Why are all the news organizations still harping on this "bitter" remark when we have another racist republican, Kentucky Rep. Geoff Davis, calling Barack a "snake oil salesman" and a "boy"??? Obama is around 46 years old, (my own age), and I don't believe he'd be calling my white behind "boy". It's pretty obvious that calling a black man "boy" is almost as bad as using the "N" word. It reminds me of a question posed to McBush the other day asking him if he realizes that he's going to benefit from some folks that just won't vote for Obama because of their prejudices. McBush responded by saying that he didn't believe that would be the case. Talk about "out of touch"!!!!

Tim Burgess - in CA   April 14th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

I support McCain for President, but don't see any problems with what Senator Obama actually said. If you read or hear the full quote, it is actually a sensible statement about voters who have been turned off by politicians promising lots and delivering little. In a way it was a bankshot at both the Republicans as well as at the Clintons, so it makes sense that Senator Clinton's campaign is trying to use it to their advantage.

In the end, talk to us about your solutions, not about someone else's mis-statement. The American people want results, not the same old cheap politics.

Logic Magic   April 14th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

Harry Moyer: Get a life. If you are back u can get away by saying anything. If u r white if you call someone boy that is equivalent to something else. Are a dimwit? Wait… since I am black I can call you a dimwit and get away with it…. Maybe I can even use "other" words. What an idiot.

Dani   April 14th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

Get real, Obama is no different than any other politician except that he is better at telling people what they want to hear….not necessarily what he will do or can do, and not necessarily change. Believe what you want, he's no different.

Nathan   April 14th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

I sooo wish Obama hadn't spoken this way. It's so out of character with everything I have read or heard from him the past few years. My hypothesis for now is that it was a stupid mistake. All the candidates have made them. he will have to suffer through these attacks. Let's see which of the candidates keep with the attacks and which of them succeed in moving forward with the real discussions of the real issues.

Rj   April 14th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

Most people are not bitter, they turn to religion because it is part of who they are not because they're bitter, they have guns for hunting not because they're bitter. He did not say they find comfort in their culture he said they become anti-immmigrant or against those not like them.

This is a "Man of Words That Matter" - he knew exactly what he was saying.

- He could have talked about PA small town people as the backbone of America. That even though times were hard they still continued to raise their families with values, they still have HOPE for the country, they are still interested in the the candidates ideas on the economics.

He said none of those things instead he talked about …

How they were BITTER, BIGOTED, GUN TOILING, RELIGIOUS, XENOPHOBES.

- He was playing to his audience…

- I think it would be interesting if he gave the same speech to a town hall full of people in PA.????

Brian T.   April 14th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Senator Obama, you hit the nail on the head! Voters ARE bitter.
After 8 years of the Bush administration basically looking down upon America from their thrones in Washington, what else is to be expected?

Americans, such as myself, are bitter about fighting and unjust war….bitter about higher gas prices….bitter about the economic state of the richest nation in the world….bitter that their voices are NOT being heard.

I commend you sir for telling it like it is. Being called bitter, in this situation, is spot on. It is NOT a negative comment. It's the truth, and I belive that the American people know the difference.

Hillary Shmillary!   April 14th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

Watch Sicko! She stopped her efforts and gave up then took money……..Dont get me wrong. Im not one of those idiots that will vote for Mc Cain if Hillary gets the nomination. I vote the party ticket. And if it is Hillary I will vote for her. People better realize what a vote for Mc Cain does and says to the world. Obama is a reflection of the world right now. Vote Obama and you will see! My republican friends are voting Obama! I couldnt believe it!

Nanc, MN   April 14th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

I agree with Lou Dobbs, Obama really needs to apologize to working Americans. But it all gets blown off as he didn't say it quite right. That may be the understatement of the decade.

ignorance   April 14th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

Sure… let's see how that goes over.

People do not like those who brag and blow their own horns.

They do not care for people running down others- especially other Americans.

We despise airs of superiority and arrogance and self-centeredness.

We do not find mockery and jeering and other childish forms of belittling others attractive.

Sir… or should I say boy, your goose is cooked.

he who laughs last   April 14th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Obama, who constantly courts the media, just this morning criticized Clinton for having the press with her.

Now he tries to keep the Media loyal with jokes about his elitist attitude.

This dude don't learn!

Marilynn, Wilmington, NC   April 14th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Someone PLEASE share this with Lou Dobbs. I guess it does NOT count in his book as an apology. "If I worded things in a way that made people offended, I deeply regret that," Obama said in an interview with the Winston-Salem (N.C.) Journal." This came from the Charlotte Journal.com newspaper website.

Enough already!

Come Get Some   April 14th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

For months we've been waiting for Obama to start fighting back against the Clinton machine and the GOP. That day has arrived.

Obama for President in 2008.

Newman   April 14th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

If Hillary is the nominee, my family and I will move to Australia and renounce our citizenship. The American dream will have failed us once and for all. Don't let this happen, vote OBAMA!

Indra in FL   April 14th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Hillary's getting pretty good at this - whenever something negative about her campaign comes to light, she deflects attention by attacking Obama.

She is so desperate now… of course, if she wins the nomination, I would vote for her and not McCain. But I have to say that it will be one sad day in history when record-breaking young voters, African Americans, and others who do not normally participate in large numbers are completely overlooked.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see…

Jenny   April 14th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

Before the campaign and before I read Obama's book I was willing to move out of the country for a better way of life. I was bitter, Bush has torn us down! We have hope and encouragement now. If old politics wins this next election I will be looking for a better place to live, perhaps where I can save $450 a month on health care, $600 a month on child care and not lose over $1600 in taxes a month…why I am working again?
OBAMA 08!

CHERYL FOR HILLARY   April 14th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

OBAMA IS DONE!!!!!

HE DUG HIS OWN GRAVE WITH HIS HOLIER THAN THOU MOUTH!!!!

WHAT AN IDIOT!
HE DOES NOT KNOW WHEN TO SHUT UP!!!!!!

THE SOONER WE ARE RID OF HIM THE BETTER!!!!!!

GO HILLARY!!!!!!!

Ziggy   April 14th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Ronald Reagan once said about Third World countries ruled by cruel dictaors that "people deserve the leaders they get". I guess that, looking at all that's going on today in American politics, in a country in recession, when people have been lied to over and over again by the same governments that got them in this situation in the first place, and nothing ever changes, I guess we can say that we Americans deserve the type of government that has been in Washington and has made us "bitter" and "frustrated". And the problem is that we still don't know that we are bitter and frustrated.

Geez...   April 14th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

I still want to know why Obama made his bitter remark in private? Why didn't he make this statement to the public?

Also, do you all relate being an elitist to being rich? Haven't you met a snob that doesn't have millions? Do you think that Ted Turner is an elitist…he's got plenty of dough? You don't have to be rich, it goes beyond that.

Jack   April 14th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

I really don't appreciate the fact that Sen. Obama would joke about these comments……

some Democrats in PA did find them offensive…..

some of us may have to now rethink who we're voting for Tuesday

Carol   April 14th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

hmmmm… small town people cling to guns because they don't like those that look different?…. uhhh? How is he expecting to win votes when he called them bigots? Typical white people just don't understand him. They are too stoooopid.

Obama mama, Grayslake IL   April 14th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Hillary is like a chicken trying to find a good spot to lay its eggs. She does not know that the more she attacks Obama the more he gets more support even superdelegates. She behaves like a little kid.

The voters made up their minds a long time ago. Hillary should just accept her defit, how does she close the gap between her and Obama? Hillary has a lot of garbage in her hands,Iraq she did vote for war, Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Nafla, Colambia and many other lies. Obama was telling the truth, when Bill was in the office he was for Nafta, and he did nothing for people in PA. Now she turns around and said she did not know what Mark Penn was doing? Come on another lie. She went to tell her husband to stop covering her lies.
When Oprah supported Obama it was a song, but when Bill is supporting Hillary it is okay because he is a former president.

Susie   April 14th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

I have always been a Hillary supporter, but my friends were for Obama, but since all the hoopla re: midwest and PA people they have switched to Hillary! YES……..

Betty, NJ   April 14th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Obama created his own distraction. I'm sick and tired of listening to him deflect responsibility for his mistakes or positions that he has taken that are no longer convenient for him. Good to know he feels comfortable enough to make jokes about his insulting remarks. Oh, and so much for 'new politics'. We haven't heard him talk about that much since decided to get down and dirty after Ohio and renegged on his commitment to pursue public financing in the GE.

Joel   April 14th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Bitter Americans? Most are too comatose feel bitter….unless the TV remote isn't working. Of course there are people who are absolutely worried about their financial security. Whomever doesn't recognized that there are fundamental problems in the government is either not paying attention or complicit in allowing it. Obama said nothing that was untrue and there's nothing to forgive. People who are not bitter about the state of our country aren't paying attention. Presidential campaigning has been reduced to entertaining the lowest common denominator, which in the US is pretty darn low these days. Why can't we as Americans find a little dignity and not destroy the people we will eventually have leading our nation? A people divided are easier to rule. Haven't we learned anything in the last 8 years?

Donald   April 14th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

It seems as if this bitter story is being run constantly it is absurd It is easy to understand that he probably intended on conveying the sense of frustration anger and even cynicism that sets in after having multiple term politicians looking right past the peoples wishes and straight towards big money ignoring our interests… I started this race supporting Hillary and am still fond of Bill but this negativity has to stop I now support Obama and his positive message in addition I think that ANY candidate that accuses a person of mixed heritage raised in a single mother household that pulled himself up by his own bootstraps an elitist Is simply out of touch.

clc   April 14th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

I am a small town, "typical white" female in my 30's with a college education and a family of 7 to support… am I bitter? Yes, I am. I am extremely bitter that no matter how hard I work to push forward in life and in faith, I am faced with challenges and difficulties. I believe that Senator Obama made a statement based on fact and I do not think an apology is necessary, we shouldn't have to apologize for how we feel. I wish more Americans would swallow their pride and admit that they are also "bitter".

Big Tex   April 14th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Harry Moyer,

The Clinton has sold us out in her own words:

She said ,A lot of these lobbyists, whether you like it or not, represent real Americans. They actually do. They represent nurses, they represent social workers — yes, they represent corporations that employ a lot of people."

The former first lady said that she welcomed the debate on the issue.

Now, a vote for Clinton is a Vote for the same old things

They just rather attack Obama because he's the ony one who can committe to change.

Certainly not Clinton.

Bernice   April 14th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

THERE IS NO REASON FOR OBAMA TO FOCUS ON THIS FOOLISHNESS. MOST PEOPLE FULLY UNDERSTAND WHAT HE MEANT. AND WE FULLY UNDERSTAND HILLARY'S BS SHE IS FULL OF IT EVERYTIME SHE OPENS HER MOUTH THAT'S ALL THAT POURS OUT.

OBAMA IS READY TO MOVE ON FROM THIS TO MORE IMPORTANT ISSUES. THE REST NEED TO DO THE SAME, LET'S GET ON TO THOSE THINGS THAT HAVE US BITTER ALL ACROSS AMERICA!

The O   April 14th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

The Second American Revolution is coming, to take back our Goverment for the Lobbyist and there Fat Cat supporters
we have had 20 years of lies and decite,
20 years of changing the subject to distract form the real issues

( you will have to take my guns out of my cold dead hand )
( lets talk about gay marriage ) ,
( Terry Shivo )
( How patriotic we are for supportting this war)
( Lets luagh and joke when we get cuaght in a lie)
( was against Nafta before I was for it )
( I DID NOT HAVE SEXUAL RELATIONS WITH THAT WOMEN )

so we were not watching what was really taking place

The real issues:
Job loss
Lobbyist running our goverment
Nafta
Katrina
$ 9 trillion bet
The war in Iraq
4000+ dead soldiers
90,000 badly injured soldiers
Educations
Tax breaks for the rich
__________________________
__________________________
__________________________
if I left any out you can fill in the blanks

WE ARE MAD AND BITTER AS HELL AND WE ARE NOT GOING TO
TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama is the leader of

The Second American revolution

the Revolution will be Peaceful Honest and Straight forward
and will take us back to the glory and the luster that we have lost in the last 20 years

OBAMA 08

sherry from Atlanta Georgia   April 14th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

Excuse me, Hillary..didn't you just tell a bold face lie to the AMERICAN PEOPLE and flippantly defend yourself by saying, "Well, shows you I'm human!" ?? Now you are trying to exploit a clumsy and misspoken comment by Barrack Omama, which HE HAS TAKEN RESPONSIBILITY FOR, to distract us from the truth.
You must think the American people are really stupid! Shame on you Hillary, you will stop at nothing to promote yourself. How elitist!

John   April 14th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

True colors starting to show, huh Obama?!

California Voter   April 14th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

I would suggest to those that believe that the Rev. Wright issue has no meaning that they go to the TUCC website (under about us) and substitute "white" for everytime "black" is mentioned and see if it doesn't come off as racist to you. The Clintons were accused of racism before the South Carolina primary and they said nothing along the lines of this church's "value system". Do we want an American president that supports a church that has a "non-negotiable commitment to Africa". I would seriously question who is the angry and bitter person in all of this — besides Michelle Obama.

Vig   April 14th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Obama makes me sick. He does not take responsibility for his words, which he said behind the backs of the very people he was talking about. Like he was in some exclusive high society club where he could say what he really thinks of people. This guy needs to be sent packing.

Ann   April 14th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

How much more do we need to see? Obama takes his baby girls to a church with comments on the par of hate crimes, His wife slips and reveals that she is only just now proud of our country - consistent with the Rev's message. This last one by Bitter Barry Obama is the last straw. This is not someone that belongs representing the democratic party. This is a giant step backwards from what we have worked for for years. Can you imagine these types of inexperienced slips with leaders of other nations? This man should not and clearly will not be elected. I only hope that the DNC comes to it's senses and realizes this emperor has no clothes.

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