May 5, 2008
Posted: 06:00 AM ET

From
The Obama campaign is out with a new TV ad on Clinton's gas tax proposal.
The Obama campaign is out with a new TV ad on Clinton's gas tax proposal.

(CNN) — Barack Obama's campaign released a new television ad in North Carolina and Indiana Sunday that calls rival Hillary Clinton's proposal for a suspension of the gas tax a "bogus gimmick."

The ad is a response to a recent Clinton commercial that criticizes Obama for not supporting the proposal.

"More “low road” attacks from Hillary Clinton," the ad's announcer states. "Now she’s pushing a “bogus” gas tax gimmick…Experts say it’ll just “boost oil industry profits.”

The Clinton campaign quickly fired back in a conference call with reporters, saying Obama is "siding with the oil companies" and his stance on the issue is a key reason why he has difficulties winning over working class voters.

"That’s a critical distinction in this race between, in Senator Clinton, someone who understands the pain that middle class and working class families are feeling…and Senator Obama, somebody who just doesn’t seem to understand that middle class families are hurting, working class families are hurting and that they need relief," Clinton Communications Director Howard Wolfson said.

The campaign is also taking issue with one of the ad's quotes from the New York Times saying Obama's proposal would "boost oil industry profits." Clinton spokesman Phil Singer says that quote pertained to John McCain's proposal for the suspension of the gas tax, not Hillary Clinton's.

Obama supporter and Missouri Senator Clair McCaskill also held a conference call on the gas tax plan Sunday afternoon, during which she characterized Clinton's plan as a "political trick."

Sunday's back-and-forth is the latest on the issue that has come to dominate the Democratic presidential race over the last week as gas prices continue to set record highs.

Earlier: Clinton: I'm not listening to economists on gas tax holiday

(Full script after jump)

Announcer: More “low road” attacks from Hillary Clinton…Now she’s pushing a “bogus” gas tax gimmick…Experts say it’ll just “boost oil industry profits” ….they’ll “simply raise prices and pocket… the difference.” Clinton aides admit it won’t do much for you – but would help her politically. So here’s the choice…Clinton gimmicks that help big oil…Or Barack Obama… a real energy plan and a $1000 middle class tax cut to help families truly pay the bills.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


marylee wagerman atlanta,ga   May 4th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

HILL AND BILL = THE LOW ROAD

Trev   May 4th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

That is why Obama voted for a gas tax holliday. Twice! Time to go windsurfing Senator Obama.

Joe, Texas   May 4th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Bwahahaha…Clintock is at it again with her political shenanegans!!! This lady is a loser!

Go Obama!!

SH   May 4th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Way to go Barack show people not to fall for the Gimmicks. Well done

Richard Bell - Winston-Salem, NC.   May 4th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Vote for hillary to save the democratic party. Vote for Obama to hand over the keys to the GOP.

Shanee   May 4th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

G-I-M-M-I-C-K ! thanks for nothing hillary

Jan from Boca Raton, Fl   May 4th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I thought Obama was going to play nice..He's such a liar.

Does he any any better idea's? He's just mad because it wasn't

his idea. He and his nappie headed wife are both Anti American.

Mary   May 4th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Hillary is told she is wrong by EXPERTS, people in her own campaign including Bill Clinton & governor Easley were heard saying the same thing.

Conservationists are appalled by Hillary.

Wow!

This plus the non diplomatic, Bush like comment "OBLITERATE" and

the divisive comment "you are either with me or against me" and

the latest tale that she told about the sale of Magnequench in which we heard the truth that The sale of Magnequench to China was by the Clintons !!!

HC starring in 'Clueless in Washington'   May 4th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Hillary, when was the last time you even pumped a tank of gas?

Clueless….

The only thing more bogus than your gas relief holiday is the fact that you believe you can still win this nomination.

White Folks Blew It Again   May 4th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Once again a black man is smeared and cast away in YOUR country. We gave you the best man for the job and LOOK what you've done. Repair to the country's economy and the VIEW to the world was in your hands. But you chose 2nd best due to the color of his skin-period-There is no other excuse this brilliant man should not be in charge and you know it. They dug up some old pastor's views from the 60's and most white folks in the world screamed under their breath: WE GOT HIM! You DON'T deserve Barack, and I HOPE you get McCain and continue to suffer until you FINALLY get it.

Carrie   May 4th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Some people will claim that this will help on food prices - the problem here is that most food transportation costs are tax exempt already. Gas prices are not high because of the tax, they are high because there's market speculation at about 50x the level of a few years ago, aided and compounded by the falling dollar.

Hillary is just playing politics, she's not interested in a useful policy.

Towhappy   May 4th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

and keep slammin her and don't let up until the American people get the point!!!

OBAMA 08

Susan-VA   May 4th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Hillary is so arrogant as to think she does not need to listen to economists on this issue! Her desperate pandering for votes come first!! After she gets in, the voters will be kicked to the curb! Just like the American workers will be when her husband Bill continues to make millions promoting those trade deals with Columbia, China, etc. and closing plants in Indiana and elsewhere. WAKE UP, AMERICA!!

After further review,Texas   May 4th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

More lies from Hillary,the Wannabe "Liar in Chief."Is a spiteful scorpio what we need?

justobserve   May 4th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Obama should ask voters whether they want a savings of 30 dollars or the lost of 6000-7000 jobs that the tax brings?

dwho   May 4th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Voters need to rethink their decisions to support Hillary Clinton's bid for the prisidency. If she can make a plan that has a short term positive effect and later the same plan has a long term negative effect then it is all about begging to be elected.
A facial expression that makes people think she cares about them but in the long run she will only care for the oil companies.
Just as she tried to create emotional empathy about her Bosnia sniper story. Trickery, Trickery Trickery and tricker who tricks people for votes.

Diana New York   May 4th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Hillary said she is not going to listen to economists who think the gas tax holiday missleads the public and is a stupid idea.

DONT WE ALREADY HAVE A PRESIDENT WHO DOESN"T LISTEN TO ANYONE AND MISSLEADS THE PEOPLE?
SAD BUT SOME PEOPLE NEVER LEARN.

OBAMA THE TRUTH LEADER08

Nodak   May 4th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Does Obama even pump his own gas? I suspect only if there are cameras around for a political photo op.

I put $72.00 in my minivan today. The extra $3.60 could have gotten me a gallon of milk.

Trent   May 4th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Way to go Barrack. Speak the truth, let Indiana and North Carolina decide. This woman does not deserve presidency. Hillary does not deserve to be a democrat either.

al   May 4th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Yes. Let the TRUTH come out on this lady. She will do ANYTHING to get elected. At least Obama can say "Yes I voted for it in the State Gov, and it DId NOT WORK" and from that experience it will not work at the Federal level.

Now, who has the experience on this matter ??

NotThisTimeinNY   May 4th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Sen. Obama:

Please help us here in New York State!!

Hillary Clinton didn't deliver on her election
campaign promises to us!!

She promised Buffalo NY 200,000 jobs if we
elected her — but we've netted a loss of
(30,000) jobs and another major plant
(American Axle - Tonawanda,NY) just this weekend
announced it is closing!!!

We can't afford her as our US Senator anymore - and
surely not 4 years as our President!!!

Thank you for telling the truth on the gas tax - We
need you to help turn our economy around. We promise
to do our part if you do yours!! Yes we can.

~ NotThisTimeinNY

Susan MO   May 4th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Who is elitist and out of touch?

Hillary to Bill O'Reilly, "Rich people, God bless us. We deserve all the opportunities to make sure our country and our blessings continue until the next generation."

Open Your Eyes   May 4th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

But it will do a little. Every little bit helps. And Hillary also has a long term plan. Obama doesnt have a short term OR long term plan.

OBAMA SUPPORTER   May 4th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Lets just say, another one of CLINTONS Hoaxes to try to sell her potential leadership. OBAMA is HONEST and holds good Judgment. CLINTON? Well…. she is a pathological LIAR and STABS her opponents in the back, even when they are nice to her. She is a scorned woman as first lady in the whitehouse. OH poor BILL HEll have no Fiery over a woman scorned!!

Peter   May 4th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Barack was great on "Meet the Press"! He answered Russert's questions clearly, concisely and logically. If nothing else, that interview alone should go a long way to convincing Superdelegates that Obama is the right man at the right time!
Problem with voters in these primaries is that they don't seem to be able to recognize "change" while its happening NOW in front of their eyes!

Lydia   May 4th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Clinton always gets trapped by her own words.

HH   May 4th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

SMASH HER ON THIS STUPID IDEA. LIKE SHE DID TO YOU SO MANY TIMES!!!!

BYE BYE CLINTONS THE MONOPOLY IS COMING TO AN END!!!!!!!!!!!!11

Robert - Portland   May 4th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

While Obama and his supporters want to sweep Rev Wright under the carpet the fact is that he is a hot-button issue and should be. Let's face it, love him or hate him, Rev Wright knows Senator Obama better than any of us. Obama and his family went to this mans church for over 20 years and Obama himself stated the man was like family. In fact he wrote about him in his book.

Now that Rev Wrights hate and racism issues have come to light, we are supposed to dismiss this and continue supporting Obama. And futher Obama tried to throw him under the bus. Now comes Rev Wright speaking in public what he has preached for years and tells what he knows of Senator Obama, that he a politician and says what a politician says to get elected. Obama then jumps in the drivers seat of the bus that he threw Rev Wright under and runs him over.

People it isn't Rev Wright who changed, it is Obama… It's called pandering.

is it necessary   May 4th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

clinton will do anything just to win votes even it means selling Bill to big cooperations. she just want votes she makes empty promises. Obama 08 a change we can all count on

Blaising   May 4th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Somebody PUHLEEZ turn Rodham's (rhymes with Saddam…a coincidence?) incessant mouth farting OFF!

I, and my entire family (7 voters), will NEVER vote for a LIAR with more faces than SYBIL.

I think Obama has latched on to a decent, debatable issue here. Finally, we can judge these two on something other than a 7 year old sound bite.

The O   May 4th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Good AD to bad people are use to the old style politics of DIVIDE AND CONQUER! It is so sad that the one bad issue with Obama is the rev wright thing, and we all know clinton has baggage sorry no a warehosue of issues that Republicans are waiting to let loose with, It will hit like a like a sunami!!!

OBAMA 08

Let the best person win!   May 4th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Great Effort! It is high time Indiana and NC folks understand that HRC and her team are just playing on their intelligence because she needs their votes.
Gas Tax proposal can never happen because no one will approve of it. Even if it is approved, the oil companies will just increase the price twice to cover the money being taken away from them and the consumers will end up losing more than the 18 cents. Moreover, HRC does not understand how to use gas pump or coffee machine, how can such a person understand low income people's situation is?

Indiana and NC don't let her decieve you and steal your votes! She doesn't really care about you she just want your vote. Ask her how many "Blue Collar Workers" did she and Bill invite to the White House during the 8 years they were there? Answer is Zero! All of a sudden she cares so much about you? Give me a break, how much lies and manipulations are you guys willing to take before you understand that you are being used!

Kris In PA   May 4th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

How can Obama claim that it will only save the average working person $28 for the entire summer? I drive 90 miles every day to get to and from work. Calculating at 18-20 cents per gallon off I would save about $45 dollars. BUT, that does not include: grocery store, vacation, visiting friends/family, or whatever else I need to do. So I guess according to Obama and other nay Sayers that we are supposed to go to work, then come home and not do anything else that requires us to drive anywhere. And, if the gas tax holiday were to be applied to rising diesel prices that truckers have to deal with, not only would it help their cause, but would also trickle down to consumers in the prices we are paying for everything that gets trucked to us across this nation. So I just do not get it how Obama can say that this is just political posturing or pandering - it is a very doable short-term stimulus for consumers and the economy. Doing nothing while people continue to get squeezed is not acceptable.

Scott C   May 4th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

This is the absolute TRUTH.

The gas tax holiday is GARBAGE.

I just hope the people of Indiana and North Carolina are smarter than the polls make them look.

Vote Obama, both because he would be the better leader and because he WILL be the nominee eventually, prolonging the race is only helping the Republicans.

A. Harrison, Atlanta Georgia   May 4th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

NEGATIVE NEGATIVE OBAMA.

Jay Lyon   May 4th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Every time she takes the stage she gives that open-mouthed point at the crowd move. Who the heck is she acting like she knows? What a phony.

where the beef?   May 4th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Obama voted 3 times for a gas tax holiday in Ill. while he was a state senator. I quess all thoses contributions from the oil companies helped change his position!!!

Obama bought and paid for!!!

Keyon   May 4th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I want to see the ad.

Karrie   May 4th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I’ve been watching the cable news channels and the debate over Hillary’s gas tax reprieve. Senator Obama should also mention that it takes the majority of both houses of Congress and George Bush’s signature to make this a reality. Hillary is NOT the president, nor can she wave a magic wand and she knows it. This is all about the primaries on Tuesday.

David   May 4th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I have voted for every democratic candidate for president since 1976 when I first became eligible to vote and I may not vote at all if Obama is the nominee. When he is on TV I pause the DVR until I can fast forward past him, he turns me off. The “elitist” reporters and pundits that bend over backwards to peddle him and justify his naive, limousine liberal fluff disgust me too. What turns me off; probably the most is his healthcare plan that must have been dreamed up by his health insurance lobbyist wife. This sounds to me like a republican-light proposal not something coming from a real democrat. John Edwards please take notice when you consider whom you want to endorse.

April in Texas   May 4th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Now thats what it is about! Long term help not a quick fix bandaid approach.. Way to stand up for what is correct rather than the easy thing to do! I am even more impressed now than I have been and thats saying something..

Obama 08/09

gerald strother   May 4th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Gallup Daily: Obama 49%, Clinton 45% NEW May 4, 2008
Gallup Poll Daily tracking shows 49% of Democratic voters nationwide preferring Barack Obama for the party’s presidential nomination, while 45% prefer Hillary Clinton.

Shirley-Ohio   May 4th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

It really does matter what happens in Indiana or North Carolina, the race been over Hillary cannot win. She has allowed herself to go on to try to make a case to the superdelegates. Well I say and I am a voter Obama has won fair and square and the superdelegates know if they take it away from him and hand it to Hillary ( an African-American who did not cheat or did not smear anybodies name to get where he is at today) there is going to be hell to pay and you can bet you bottom dollar that McCain surely will when. Any African-American watching or following this race will not vote, plain and simple.

Elio Elio   May 4th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

It is about time for Obama to speak up and explain the differences.

Brad, Amarillo TX   May 4th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

I did the math for myself. I would save about 23 dollars over the course of the summer. It is the one of the most obvious scams I have ever seen. The truth is world wide demand is increasing at huge rates. Oil production cannot keep up and will eventually peter out.. High gas prices are here to stay. We have to dredge up the guts to find a new way to power our society. This will be a bigger challenge than WW2. If we had learned this lesson in the 70's we would not be in this mess. Americans don't seem to learn until they touch the stove with an open palm.

Erick   May 4th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

I cannot believe the selfishness of Clinton or the apparent short sightedness of her and her electoral base. After all, the general election is for much more then just a president, and once the elected officials are in place it is not only the president to propose and develop public policy. Lets take a look at the senate races for instance. The seats that are expected to be competitive this year are OR, AK, CO, LA, ME, MN, NH, NM, NC, SD and VA. Look at these states and ask yourself which democratic presidential candidate would be the best down ticket in these states. With the exception of New Hampshire and New Mexico, Obama would undoubtedly be the better choice to attract votes for the down ticket senate races. Unfortunately for Clinton the rust belt states either do not have a senate race this year, or else, the races are not competitive.

So what, some may ask. Well, democrats should be focusing on the good of the party at this point. This does NOT mean that Clinton should drop out, however. No, indeed she should stay in the race until Obama is the official nominee, but her campaign should be one of a positive message. From now on she should only speak positively about Obama and collectively they should use the media attention on their competitive race to focus on their contrasts with the GOP. Clinton should be building Obama up and not tearing him down! Democratic voters should be rewarding positive campaigning and helping Clinton along when she is supportive of the party and voting heavily against her when she resorts to the politics of old. Unless, of course, if Americans want to continue a politics of negativity, which I find hard to believe.

So why should, or would, Clinton basically agree to concede the presidential race by talking Obama up and ceasing her recent style of tearing him down? Simply put she should be focusing on what’s best for the party, the best for her and the best for the policies that she wants to push forth for the American people. A strong presidential candidate in Obama has the potential to put all those competitive senate races into play and the stronger Obama is as a candidate the better chance of winning those senate seats. A clean sweep would mean a 60-40 senate and with this kind of a potential senate composition Clinton should be focusing now on building Obama up to get this result and targeting on her concession prize, the Senate president pro tempore, if Robert Byrd would allow it for the good of the democratic party?

By Clinton running a positive campaign, Obama would also have a much more secure shot at winning the presidential bid and taking control of the House of Representatives as president of America. Then with Clinton controlling the Senate the two would offer one of the most influential one two punches in the history of America. After all, 95% of their policy platform is identical and that is why this primary has come down to a competition of character and grit instead of what they will do for Americans – the latter is nearly identical! So, for sake of argument, lets look at Clinton’s most progressive propositions, Universal Health Care. Now, ask yourself, would Clinton have a better chance of achieving this as the Senate president pro tempore residing over a 60-40 senate, or as the President of a divided and fractured House of Representatives and a 54-46 senate? Why do we all act as if only presidents introduce bills? Surely a stronger, unified government would achieve Universal Health Care much more smoothly! Simply put, if Hillary wants what’s best for America, it is time for her to go positive!

So to all the democrats reading this. Unify and Get out to vote, vote Clinton or vote Obama, that is not important, just vote to reward POSITIVE campaigning! Don’t let negativity dictate the tone of this race. When you talk to your fellow democrats contrast Clinton and Obama not with each other, but with GOP. Give them credit when they are positive and ignore them when they are negative.

In November vote democrat!

Thanks for reading!

California Girl   May 4th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Barak Obama is a flip flopper on this issue. Obama has voted for the holiday gas tax in Chicago 3 times. Obama's campaign has been accepting donations from big oil, as in San Francisco at the Getty Mansion during the time Obama made those elitist comments about mid-west people.

We need a holiday gas tax in California. We are scrounging our pennies just to pay for gas.

Hillary is the right choice. She takes risks and we need a risk taker for the American people.

Hillary 08

oaklynne   May 4th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Hillary. the pants suit panderer. Go Obama 08!

Jon   May 4th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Does the ad mention that Obama voted multiple times for a gas tax holiday in the past? And now he think's its suddenly a bad idea?

Flip flopper, elitist. That is for sure. Do not trust the man.

Gary   May 4th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Before anyone can suspend the Federal gas tax, the Congress and Senate have to approve it, then it must be signed by the President. Does anyone really think this will happen in 3 weeks?

Chris   May 4th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Good ad! Clinton nows she is trying to fool the American voters. She nows that Bush will not sign such a bill and she knows that it won't help the American people, but hurt our efforts to rebuild roads and bridges. She has already spent her windfall tax on oil profits.

Same thing as usual from a typical washington politican!

ColoradoWoman4Obama   May 4th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

One thing is crystal clear when it comes to the economy! Americans MUST not overlook the facts in evidence that have become apparent in this campaign:
The 1990s WERE a more prosperous time – I fondly remember paying a mere 88 cents a gallon for gas… BUT it seems painfully clear that Hillary Clinton is an ill-equipped steward of the American economy. Her campaign’s numerous financial problems clearly point to ineptness – so while she often speaks of fiscal responsibility I wonder when her small vendors will get paid and if Senator Clinton will again lend her campaign money to pay off her debt when this is all over…
Barack Obama is presenting the TRUTH to the American people - my greatest hope is that voters in Indiana and North Carolina vote for truth NOT more band-aides for flesh wounds…
It seems clear that all Senator Clinton learned from her husband’s administration was how to lie straight faced to the American people…

As a mother, a teacher, a Democrat, and an American I beg every voter to STAND for REAL CHANGE - not more of the same… Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton… The pattern scares me…

Obama NOW!!!

Fak Hitlery   May 4th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

This will ultimately contribute to the inevitable demise of Obama. Clinton will find a way to win it all.

White male for Obama   May 4th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Hillary will give you pennies and take away your hard earn dollars.
Penny wise pounds foolish is the idea of gas tax break.

You can't only win big states and not win small states to become
president.

Senator Maccain is unpatriotic with his recent statement on war for oil in the middle east.

A presidental candidate should not have said things what would portray America image as selfish, self centred minded that is willing to invade another country to steal what that country has.

Maccain comment re-enforce those people whom have criticized American invasion as nothing but embition for oil.

How is that for some one who want to be president and a leader of the free world.

Laura zinnger   May 4th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

thank you Barack.
we trust you to tell the actual truth.

Kevin   May 4th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Obama is so out of touch that now he is criticizing Clinton for helping the people that need it. Obama is just like Bush, out of touch.

Anthony   May 4th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

hillary clinton is making a fool of herself. The gas tax wont help us, which she knows, but still pushing for it. Is this one of her tactics to win? We need real solutions. Has she checked the polls thats over 50% of people dont trust her?

carrie   May 4th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

hillary,hillary,hillary
you know you can not win and now you want to ruin barracks chances
if u really want the best for america
why wont u drop out of this race
and give obama time to regroup for the republicans?
why are you so selfish?
if u have devoted 25 years of your life to the service of people
why cant u add another 8 more years?
you will be 68 ans still fit to run
the race is over this time for you and you know it
barrack has to focus on november
dont ruin america because you are power hungry
what is it with u and that white house anyway
did u forget something in there
you can call michelle obama and ask her to find it for you
if u did
if u didnt,do u want to die there as well?
think of te democratic party and america
do the right thing!

Gary   May 4th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

If Bloomberg, the Billionare from NY is against the gas tax relief, then I think the gas tax relief must be good for us uneducated poor folks.

."The economy's in trouble. When the housing crisis broke, Hillary Clinton called for action: a freeze on foreclosures. Barack Obama said, no. Now, gas prices are skyrocketing, and she's ready to act again. . . . Barack Obama says no, again."

. Let obama go be president of MSNBC, his national mouth piece

Democrat for Hillary   May 4th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Who is doing the negative ads and not owning up to them. Obumer is always say he does not do negative ads…yeah right. Whatever us voter aren't stupid Obumer has been going negavtive since Iowa!!

Hillary 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve   May 4th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Most American know what McCain and Clinton are up too. The big oil companies will just raise the gas to off-set any kind of savings for the customers. I hope people are smart enough not to fall for these McClinton tactics. Sometimes I think Hillary and McCain are on the same ticket. WOW! WHAT A DREAM TEAM, HAHA

GO Obama

Steve,

Kentucky

Gary   May 4th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Will someone PLEASE give the the number of the Bill that she has introduced in the Senate, which will give us a Tax "Holiday".

doodle   May 4th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

He's only telling the truth…I hope people listen. Experts agree that Clinton's plan would cost us 300,000 jobs this summer! Please, good people of Indiana and North Carolina — do your research — Hillary Clinton is selling you a bill of goods with no upside to you or other Americans.

Obama 2008!!!!!

norm   May 4th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Bogus gimmick for a bogus candidate.

If all else fails and the racists still this from us then 4000 of us have already pledged to vote McCain across 3 states. So long Hillary no matter how you cut it.

susie   May 4th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Obama was for it in 2000 for Illinois, why is he flip-flopping?

greenfun   May 4th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

It seems like Obama is just trying to latch onto something that he can spin as a negative. I believe it was meant to bring relief to long distance drivers ,and Clinton suggested other measures for the long term. I can't figure out what Obama's specific solution is other than to change from old style politics. He should spend less time attacking her solutions and come up with some of his own.

Mr. E   May 4th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Sounds to me like Barack is trying to put money back where it belongs insted of in the hands of big big oil. Butttttttt i can hear the stamped of all the Hillary supporters coming to sling mud all over this and please, please let's hear more about Rev. Wright. Never the one's to mention that Wright also served as consel to BIll and Hill after the Monica (cigar) Lewinsky debacle Noooooooo that would be wrong and on the attack to mention that!!! And how can his supporters be so nasty ?? To quot an old anti-drug ad 'We learned by watching you'.

CJV   May 4th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Know who else didn't listen to unbiased advisors…George Bush. Stop with the pandering to the blue collar workers. One day we'll have an honest presidential candidate, an authentic president, and an effective bi-partisian leader the American people and the world will respect.

This is not HRC. It isn't McCain. But it could be Obama. I trust it will happen in my lifetime.

Beckie Sue in NC   May 4th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

North Carlolina is with OBAMA on this one! We just don't trust Billary Clinton!!

OBAMA '08

Rico   May 4th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Why isn't the media tallking about the active case against the clinton's…YOU TUBE Paul v Clinton…please read below?

Paul’s allegations that his $1.2 million in donations were hidden by Hillary’s campaign have been corroborated by the Justice Department, FBI and FEC General Counsel- while the lying has been done by the Clinton appointed Judge in the Rosen trial, Hillary’s lawyer David Kendall has maintained Hillary’s campaign filed accurate reports until the campaign admitted hiding more than $720,000, and her lawyer Lyn Utrecht in false statements made to the FEC General Counsel denying Paul’s contribution of $1.

In May 2005, Sen. Clinton's former finance director, David Rosen, was acquitted for filing false campaign reports that later were charged by the FEC to treasurer Andrew Grossman, who accepted responsibility in the conciliation agreement. Paul points out the Rosen trial established his contention that he personally gave more than $1.2 million to Clinton's campaign for the fundraiser that his contributions intentionally were hidden from the public and the FEC.

Joe   May 4th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

She is very clearly pandering to voters on this. When the demand goes higher and you are paying $5 a gallon, how much is that tax cut going to help?

judge alan   May 4th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

none of the CANIDATES can lower the gas tax less elected and not until NEXT year …bush will veto any reductions while president.
pure undaulterated b.s. of course with clintons uneducated dumographic they will believe what her bill and chelsea shovel.

Robert Spodeck   May 4th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Obama says it will not help in the long term.He calls it a gimmick. Hes so smart he can't even relate to the common man. Hey Mr. smart guy Obama," We need help out here now short term, long term, gimmick or not! Maybe you and rev.Wright can come up with a better idea! Vote for Hillary! She is much more in touch with well - everyting.

jeff - Dallas   May 4th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

I normally don't care what celebrities have to say, but check out what Tom Hanks says about Obama on Youtube.com
In the search box, just put "Tom Hankks Obama". I think he covers it all (for a celeb!).

Sharad   May 4th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Obama and the Economists say that removing the gas tax will increase demand and hence increase gas prices. By the same argument increasing the tax will lower demand and hence lower gas prices. So is Obama going to raise gas tax. Or is he not lowering gas tax just for sake of disaggreement with Hillary.

Hillary's plan will give us atleast some relief. This is a perfect example that Obama is all words and no action.

Orin Schueler   May 4th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

This simply shows that Clinton and McCain are in bed with the oil barons. This also an example of why need a philosophical change in DC.. Obama gives the country hope, don't be swayed by Billary's negative onslaught. She is barely hanging on and is desperate..

Don't trust Clinton   May 4th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Hillary doesn't care about voters, only her huge ego. She will say or do anything to buy a vote. You can see right through her on this one.

Ernest   May 4th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Senator Obama=Good decisions.
Senator Clinton=Bad decisions

In CNN, Senator Clinton failed to mention any economist that supports her "bogus gimmick" gas tax proposal.

Senator Obama's proposal was proven and supported by several economists…….smart man.

Daud   May 4th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

More and more, CNN looks to be taking the side of the Clintons. It is interesting to see so many negative comments in the blogs from the users about CNN's coverage in the recent days. CNN = POLITICS should be changed to CNN = Balanced Reporting.

BILL   May 4th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

SO MUCH FOR THE "NEW POLITICS"

chris   May 4th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

How dumb does Clinton believe the electorate is in NC and IN? WE NEED A CHANGE IN MENTALITY. This game of hers is ridiculous! I wish a news person would confont Bill Clinton about this idea since right about now is when one of his TORPEDO comments is likely. "Yeah, of course I don't think it'll work, but if people buy it, why not say it? Hillary Clinton is despicable…she'll say anything, do anything, AMORAL!

Susan   May 4th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Another negative ad.

lou   May 4th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

She is right about one thing…his response is why he can't win over her demographic…he won't lie to them and they seem to be so dumb, they will believe anything she tells them. Everyone knows Bush has to sign this bill in the end and it will never happen.

noemi in los angeles   May 4th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

UTUBE: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BARACK

Awesome Video, a must See!!

You will love it. No, Seriously.

catmom   May 4th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

I wonder why every ad Senator comes out with is deemed as negative but ads put out by Senator Obama are not? Just curious since this ad is more negative than Senator Clinton's ad. One could even say it was an attack on Senator Clinton. So, it seems that Senator Obama is just a typical politician after all.

Linda   May 4th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

All you Obama supporters who claim that Hillary is being too negative need to take a look at Obama's latest ad. I, for one, will take any break I can get at the gas pump. In our area gas is $3.62 a gallon!I believe Obama is getting desperate. Hillary will win in Indiana!

Marvin Geer   May 4th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Hiilary is on target to say Obama continues to attack her solutions rather than finding solutions to problems. I've heard many of his criticisms which follow the same pattern. Obama is a politician with all hat and no cattle.

Help Wanted Experience Needed   May 4th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

This ad is capital "G" arbage! POINT BLANK. Obama is a lier and he would do or say anything to be president. Sorry Obama you wont win the general election in November.

aware   May 4th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

More obfuscation from the guy who is an expert at misinformation! :(

Barack and Michelle are way too far left! Americans are centrist.

Hillary Clinton 2008 and 2012! The only Democratic choice for a win in the General Election. :)

The Patriot   May 4th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Sen. Obama is fighting 5 against 1 with the HRC establishment, her supportters, John McCain, his supporters, and also the GOP attackers. I must admit he's fending pretty well for himself considering his unequaled circumstances.

Nathan   May 4th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Is Clinton serious?

I find it insulting that she thinks she can buy my vote with a gas tax holiday… She's no better than the Republicans who buy votes by pledging to cut taxes!

3 months off from an 18 cent tax. Gee…I can't wait…maybe I could take that 18 cents and invest in alternative energy, which is where it should be going in the first place!

What happens when the 3 months is over? Is she going to suspend it again? Maybe she'll just offer to fill up everyones tank. That's the way to get votes!

MM   May 4th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Come on Indiana and Carolina — show this woman that you have the intelligence to see through her!

Daniel   May 4th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

CNN,

Why don't you put a link up there so we can actually view the ads?

You are not a news network. You are a pathetic excuse for a news network.

I call on all intelligent people who are sick and tired of PARTISAN NEWS ORGANIZATIONS…. to tell the Clinton News Network what you think!!!!!

Dan, NC   May 4th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Hey cnn,
"The campaign is also taking issue with one of the ad's quotes from the New York Times saying Obama's proposal would "boost oil industry profits." Clinton spokesman Phil Singer says that quote pertained to John McCain's proposal for the suspension of the gas tax, not Hillary Clinton's."

Dont you mean "Clinton's" proposal. Not Obama's. Stop making careless mistakes.

Franky   May 4th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

I don't know but last time I checked, economists have degrees that are benefit to their expertise……….I mean, isn't it that's why they're called "Economists"??? I mean, isn't that why you go to school for??? I'm sure EACH candidate has advice regarding ideas, solutions and theories but at the same time, they need to know that these people are in this kind of practice…….all I'm saying is if you need help or advice or a comment, don't be afraid to ask…………there's MANY intelligent officials out there who would be more than happy to help…

Daniel   May 4th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Oh by the way… MSNBC lets us actually view the ads. I am switching to them to get my news.

Most Electable?   May 4th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

So who do you consult when proposing economic remedies…please don't say lobbyists. Oh right, you think they represent real people.

Ben   May 4th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Why can't I even make the waiting moderation.??
Once more i will try! Hillary and McCain are not dictators! They can not simply eliminate a gas tax. They can not jump over congress!
Talk about a hollow and false promise.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

grandma   May 4th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

GO Hillary GO!!!!!!!!!!!
Obama is fighting nasty now- when he knows he CAN lose!!

MD in OK   May 4th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

I am for Obama's plan. .30 cents a day will be eaten by the rising price of food and gas. You know the big oil companies will raise the price of gas if there's a gas tax holiday.

Ed   May 4th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

didn't Obama vote for Bushes tax breaks for the rich oil company's
and Hillary voted against the energy bill. More small time speeches and no solutions by Obama. Hillary or Mccain 08

HYPOCRITE   May 4th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

Obama is a hypocrite

1 - he says he wont run a negative campaign, yet he continues to do so

2 - he voted for a gas tax holiday in the Illinois state senate!

GET OUT OF THE RACE OBAMA!

Jacob   May 4th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Trying to align Clinton with big oil is like trying to align Obama with radical islam.

Janel, St. Paul, MN   May 4th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

This type of pandering from Senator Clinton is insulting to the intelligence of the American voter.

Just can't believe she stooped so low!

A $20 savings over summer - really!! And then we'll start paying back plus some in the fall and winter.

Give us a break!

Wolf in Sheep's clothing   May 4th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

It's so funny how Hillary changes the tone in her voice to make herself sound sensitive to manipulate Americans when she talks about the economy.

The truth is that she has taken millions of dollars from oil companies to keep her campaign going, and even has oil company lobbyists campaigning for her. She works for them folks, NOT you.

NO MATTER WHAT SHE SAYS, this woman cannot be trusted- she has sold her soul to Shell.

rw   May 4th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Attack. Attack. Attack.

Where is the plan Obama? You are suppose above the fray,.forget the attack, where is the plan? Why keep saying you are different when you are like the rest?

I watched Obama attack Hillary every day this past week at every rally because he is upset with Wright. He is suppose to be better than that.

Hillary did not attack Obama at all this past week. Who is the bigger panderer?

He won't win the general election. He is too sophomoric.

George M   May 4th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

"saying Obama is "siding with the oil companies" "

Is that why Clinton had an oil lobbyist along with her to try and sell her plan?
Obama tried this in Illinois some time ago, and it failed. He discussed it on Meet the Press. The clip is on YouTube.

Peter   May 4th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

The tax is stupid, Clinton knows but she never would have thought Obama had the guts to be against it. When they found out he actually was brave, they had a problem. Clinton administration is in deep trouble here. The same with the the factory in Indiana which Clinton agreed to sell to china back in the 90s but Hillbill of course forgot to mention that when she blamed bush. Hillbills tactics are plain evil and false.

jt   May 4th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Obama has zero solution!!

Hillary has short term and long term solution.

She is a candidate with action.

Obama just talk.

Hillary 08!!!

Concerned democrat   May 4th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Clinton supporters, are you blind to the Clinton VS Paul case or the numerous sex scandals cencerning Monika, Paula Jones, Gennifer Flowers, Kathleen Willey and many more…..

Hasn't it occurred to you that the GOP will use these to bring down the democratic party? WAKE UP!

The attacks we're due to receive (if Hillary wins) will make us look at the Reverend Wright case with much fondness.

4 Hillary In Raleigh   May 4th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Tell it to the person who saves a buck on their fillup that it's a gimmick. That buck just might be the 99cent menu lunch item or going hungry that day.

Torpedo Wright and black folks voting as a race block have sunk the TiBamic. Hillary is your lifeboat to avoiding 4 more years of Bush policy.

Lily   May 4th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Hillary Clinton approached her failed healthcare reform in 1993 in much the same way, experts don't matter, I'm the smartest in the land and know everything. I'm from New York and have relatives living upstate who believed in Hillary Clinton's senatorial promises, they are now deeply disappointed in her lack of accomplishment for rural America.

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   May 4th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Duh - I'd like the one that gives me $28 this summer rather than the one that allows $1000 for food and gas. NOT. NOT NOT NOT.

I'm not one of the ones that can be dumbed down by the Clinton Lies (tell 'em anything to get a vote).

Let's move on to what matters - cleaner and clearer politicians, and less BS from the republican clinton machine.

Wendy   May 4th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Hillary there are ways to beat this, tell people to drive less and carpool.

Janet Keller   May 4th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Who was it that signed the same kind of gas holiday in the past? IT WAS OBAMA HERE IN ILLINOIS. What Clinton is doing is getting a start on pursuring the Oil Companies.
I saw both Obama and Clinton this sunday Am and Obama has general answers with no specifics such as "we need chage" (& I'm screaming "what are your changes") ; Clinton has detailed specific plans (and I"m not a Democrat).
Obama's issues are building up too much that they scare us.
Janet Keller

Swiss in Canada   May 4th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Suspension of the gas tax? Relief for the people! Guys please!!!!!
This is sheer mockery!!!!!! Don't fall for it! Man, it's 30 cents a day!

Even blue collar white folks aren't that stupid!   May 4th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Clinton will ignore the economists and trust her own eyes and ears. Perhaps that's why her campaign is so far in debt. We know she's lousy at math–remember when she said she had won more of the popular vote???

An objective Canadian   May 4th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

I hope our US friends see this for what it is - a desperate attempt by a deperate woman who wants to move into the White House at any cost. She has more experience than Obama, but what has she done with it? Not much. Change is good.

isaac   May 4th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

hilary clinton and mccain like to dogg on barack and try to make people believe he is a liability in the race but realy he is causing a disturbance to them and that cause them discomfort so realy hilary is liabilty because she and mccain are more like bush than any of the other cannidates who tried to run for prersident…hilary and mccain are offerting more of the same politica and dnt believ in putting american soldiers in harms way instead of trying to negotiate

isaac   May 4th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

hilary clinton and mccain like to dogg on barack and try to make people believe he is a liability in the race but realy he is causing a disturbance to them and that cause them discomfort so realy hilary is liabilty because she and mccain are more like bush than any of the other cannidates who tried to run for prersident…hilary and mccain are offerting more of the same politica and dnt believ in putting american soldiers in harms way instead of trying to negotiate

isaac   May 4th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

hilary clinton and mccain like to dogg on barack and try to make people believe he is a liability in the race but realy he is causing a disturbance to them and that cause them discomfort so realy hilary is liabilty because she and mccain are more like bush than any of the other cannidates who tried to run for prersident…hilary and mccain are offerting more of the same politica and believ in putting american soldiers in harms way instead of trying to negotiate

als   May 4th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

The campaign is also taking issue with one of the ad's quotes from the New York Times saying Obama's proposal would "boost oil industry profits."

I think you mean Clinton's proposal, not Obama's

Mike   May 4th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Thats just plain stupid!
how does spending an extra 40 cents a gallon help me, and saving the same cash not help me? I want to see how these Obama supporters try to defent spending more.
wasteful wasteful wasteful
maybe cut spending on affirmative programs and other ridicuolous programs to make up for the money that we, the citizens pay!

hamstring   May 4th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Obama's policy is that rather than do something now while he is a senator, we have to elect him president first to get some relief on gas prices.

Go back to Chicago You Loser!!!

Lee   May 4th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Clinton and McCain's gas tax holiday is pure election year pandering. Glad to see that Obama is against it. We need a president who's ready to get serious about our nation's problems, not someone who wants to propose quick fixes that do absolutely nothing to leave us in a better position long-term.

Griff   May 4th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Whatta Gas! We have Lift-Off, Hillary…Blow Obama away: Girl..

Psbro   May 4th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

When gas was $2.00 a gallon, Obama called for the EXACT plan Hillary is calling for now. Do your research Obama people. So if he thought it would work at $2.00 a gallon why it won't it work at $4.00 a gallon? What's the difference? He's in the tank for the oil industry. He voted for the Bush/Cheny energy bill. This guy is too much. $30.00 in my pocket would look real good right about now.

Tony   May 4th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Clinton understands that majority of the voters may not discern the various issues in this gas tax war. She targets the group that wants a fish to eat for one day and not the group that prefers to be taught how to fish.
This is precisely why politicians are looked upon as dishonest, crooked, lying bastards.

susan   May 4th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

HA! Barack Obama's resume is a BOGUS GIMMICK!

Lisa   May 4th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Well now we see that Barack is not working for the poor people.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   May 4th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

The Obama campaign is being dishonest about this issue. The real difference is the windfall profit tax on big oil. Anyone who doesn't see that Obama is in the pocket of big oil is clearly blinded by emotional con-artistry by the Obama campaign. Americans want to put an end to profit taking by big oil and force reinvestment into infrastructure like increasing refinery capacity. Real change that would put an end to seasonal price hikes in the first place. Obama needs to get on board with the American people and put an end to this greedy oil industry scam. 78% capacity in the face of sky high profit taking is unbearable for the consumer.

sue in Raleigh   May 4th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

I have just one thing to say:

HILLARY ROCKS!

kingsley   May 4th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Hello CNN, ever since HILLARY shed her bogus tears and complained that its been tough and that the media is treating OBAMA with kids glove, CNN has since woken up to do HILLARY'S dirty bidding. The Question now is if OBAMA breaks down under this torrent of media bias, would CNN reverse ? just wondering out loud ! because it was so yesterday before New Hampshire that she planted a fake questioner to ask that question, now she has turned tiger.

ztormtra   May 4th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

One more thins.

Just when do you think we will buy gas for our cars again???

When the new President gets elected?

How socialist can Obama get?

This helps a little Now when we need it!

all   May 4th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton is lying about WTO. Opec has one answer to her proposition. And the answer is "ask your oil corporations to bring down their profit. This answer is as old as OPEC itself. Nobody can break through it. (no matter who) I am originally from OPEC country and I know it. G.W Bush is probably laughing at her now because he has received this answer 1000 times. I think this lady is a perfect deceiver.

Bushwhacked in Eugene, OR   May 4th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

I can run my own numbers and come up with my own answers, based on the difference between a tank of gas with the tax and a tank of gas without the tax. I did so when the idea was first broached. It's negligible. Not enough to even notice. Any effort to convince the public who either can't or won't bother to run their own numbers is, indeed, a political gimmick. Tell them what they want to hear, not what the facts are. Old-school politics 101.

I have to side with Obama on this one, and it really sounds odd for HRC to be accusing anyone else of siding with the oil companies.

Let's have a real energy plan.

Rob BC Canada   May 4th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Typical Hillary,twist lie and misrepresent.Whats new ? Hey Bill how is the CAFTA lobby going.( Columbian free trade-for all those blue collar workers that Hillary is going to take such good care of )."Trust me ,my little pretties".

James   May 4th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Which one of the two - Clinton or Obama - was it that earned in excess of $100,000,000 in income?

Deborah   May 4th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

CNN IS JUST AWEFUL HOW THEY SPIN THINGS

it is totally amazing how my comments are rarely posted yet there are many Hillary supporters who have many many many comments posted constantly.

I think I must offend your bias comment readers by constantly referring to Hillary as Hillary Rotten Clinton, the Liar

Oh well whatever

Obama is still the right man for this country.

Obama for PRESIDENT 2008~!~~!!!!!!!~

AVEMBE The sun   May 4th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

First ,She won't be PRESIDENt during the holidays…So what the hell is she talking about!!! she won't be able to do anything…she will do …NOTHING she won't be president;..Man!!!How can i write it differently?…
ok Secondly …she won't be …President!!! neither in july nor in august!!!so…Why is the LADY talking about something she just CAN'T do?

Tony   May 4th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Manipulating the poor, the weak, the less educated, the more vulnerable for political expediency. This I am sad to say is the game that the Democratic party has played for years and John Mccain also knows and wants to capitalize on.
Obama's really tells me that thsi guy is for real and God bless him. Mind you, this position may yet hurt him in the election.

Charlotte   May 4th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Obama is a jerk, he has no idea what will work. The oil companies are going to raise the price whether or not there is a tax break. The oil companies are making record profits that Hillary wants to tax them on. Don't forget Obama voted for the Cheney energy plan that favors big oil..

Richard, FL   May 4th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

“I’m not going to put my lot in with economists”
— Hillary Clinton

Her admission that economists, who know far more about the results of her gas tax holiday, feel that it is a bad idea is all you need to know. Hillary has no background in economics and thinks she knows more than economists who are in near unanimous agreement that she is wrong.

Hillary's plan means that the average American will save less than the cost of ONE FILL-UP. It is expected to cost thousands of jobs, increase gas consumption which will raise prices when it's over, and severely diminish funds for highway repairs. The Minnesota bridge disaster shows how much we need the repairs done.

Voters should not be so foolish that they only take a simple-minded view of this gimmick. Look at the long term because that is all that really counts.

American Girl   May 4th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

The Leading Economists have spoken.
Wake up America - Hillary and McCain have mis-spoken on this issue and only want your vote.

APS in Hawaii   May 4th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Amazing how the great uniter is acting like the great divider. Ok, so you do not agree with the gas tax holiday. I do agree with getting rid of it and posting a hefty tax on gas companies who give their CEOs $500 million a year bonuses. Companies that have not built a refinery in the US for the last 20 years, and finally for those companies that are getting a huge profit while they gouge the public and abuse supply and demand. Gee whiz, that sounds like the top 6 oil companies in the US. Get a life and feel the pain. In Hawaii, gas is already $4 a gallon.

Dave, Indianapolis   May 4th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

I will trust the experts that Senator Obama's plan is best. Rev. Wright
won't be at the pump when I'm filling up at $7.00 a gallon. Senator Obama gets my vote.

angelina st paul mn   May 4th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

good senator Obama tell the truth, this woman will ruin us all
she wont listen to anyone, not the generals, not the economists, not the super delegates, not the DNC
she will not stop at anything, as her lies go on and on……….

Moses, Ca.   May 4th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Mr. Wolfson,
The news media is putting people in catagories, you shouldn't do it. we are american people and we can't be fooled or tricked. You should just say she was wrong and get on with the job at hand. I think the NY Sen will lose, but don't play the american as pawns. We have been watching Washington for a long time.

John   May 4th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

If people don't get it after this, i.e. that she is a fraud, then they certainly deserve to get what they wish for, a fraud. Neither candidate will ever be able to offer real solutions, for it does not belong to man to direct his own step, but at least people won't be conned by this purely political pandering by Clinton.

Wolf   May 4th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Obama trickery….using a quite that was regarding McCain vs. Clinton…oh well, same old dirty politics from Senator Obama - who said he was above it all….what a laugh!!!!! He is out of touch - if her plan to help the people is so bad - where is his???? Oops - that's right - no plans, just talk.

Obama Girl   May 4th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Correction:

"The campaign is also taking issue with one of the ad's quotes from the New York Times saying CLINTON'S proposal would "boost oil industry profits." Clinton spokesman Phil Singer says that quote pertained to John McCain's proposal for the suspension of the gas tax, not Hillary Clinton's."

John McCain supported the war in Iraq
So did Hillary
John McCain supported the gas tax holiday
So did Hillary

Whose side is she on? Answer: It depends on which state she's campaigning in. If she cares so much about giving Indiana and N. Carolina a break at the pump, she could auction off one of her zillion pant suits and donate the proceeds to the truckers' fund. Or perhaps dip into the $109 MILLION she and Bill made last year. And she calls Obama an elitist?

I'm from Bloomington, Indiana. Forget a gas tax holiday. I wish Hillary would take a holiday–a permanent one.

Josie Wa   May 4th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Hillary is pandering. People are not that stupid! I find this as insulting as a penny tip to a waitress.

Wolf   May 4th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Obama trickery….using a quote that was regarding McCain vs. Clinton…oh well, same old dirty politics from Senator Obama - who said he was above it all….what a laugh!!!!! He is out of touch - if her plan to help the people is so bad - where is his???? Oops - that's right - no plans, just talk.

Jean   May 4th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Go Obama!!!!!

Jonesey   May 4th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

This is why we need Obama. This gas tax would cut into the highway trust fund which the tax supports, a loss of $9 billion over the summer, resulting in fatter profits margins for the oil companies. Do your homework, people. It's all smoke and mirrors to get your vote. Clinton and McCain will bring no change to you and I. Short-term quick fixes that seem like something when they are really nothing. Same government sleeping with the same big oil companies.

Mike from Oahu   May 4th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Of course Hillary Clinton is making noise like she has the solution. However her moves are as disingenuous as her campaign. She knows full well she does not have the authority to move congress to follow her lead. At the end of the day it will be another "hollow" accomplishment, just like her claims that she "tried" to get national health care reform as first lady.

Were she claims accomplishments one can see a continuing failure to follow through in obtaining bipartisan support of her initiatives. She may as well call on congress to solve world peace, world hunger, and global warming. Congress won't be able to deliver on these either, however she can claim again that she was a champion who "tried" to make a difference. Her resume should read, "She tried…and tried…and tried…but failed! "

Unfortunately the american electorate is easilly duped by these political travelling medicine shows and the Clinton's are savy enough to exploit this collective gullibility. Just remember folks, all the promises begin to disappear the day she gets sworn in.

Too bad we never seem to learn…

tar   May 4th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Sen. Clinton knows that her plan for a gas tax holiday will not help anyone and only saves the consumers an average of $30 a month. She is banking on people not looking at the big picture that those taxes will take money away from road constructions and put more people out of work.

Again, she is telling the voters what they want to hear and not what is beneficial for the country.

Paula in WI   May 4th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

drives around in a limo…elitist?wants to have us have her healthcare..if we're being treated unfairly and she really cares she's had 20 years to fix it and still does not refuse the special healthcare package for herself..hmmmmmm??????

Shannon from Washington   May 4th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

I am tired of this pandering. I am anxious to move toward real solutions and not politicians that underestimate the American Public's intelligence. As Michael Bloomberg said this really is the dumbest thing I have heard in a long time.

Dexter   May 4th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

This woman is horrible. The longer this goes on the more I honestly dislike her.

I've always said that I'l vote for either democrat in November, but if she keeps this up, I might just stay home.

America can't afford Hillary in the White House.

Frank Honolulu Hawaii   May 4th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Nce Clinton bashing home page headline CNN. What's up?

mr. reality   May 4th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

I'snt this gas tax holiday somthen McCain came up with… now she's on the same road.. I really did use to like her

Charlotte   May 4th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

What is his plan for help at the pump? He talks, which he is good at, but offers no solutions to fix the problem. He talks about not voting for the the War in Iraq, yet offers no solutions. He talks a good game but doesn't know how to play the game. He talks about change but doesn't say how he will change the way it works. I could run on his platform if I were good at speeches that require no action

enoch needles   May 4th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Sorry to be an (gasp) elitist, but all the economists in the world (and I believe all or most have) calling this plan the pandering scam that it is won't convince the majority of just plain dumb voters who are programmed to think "tax cuts goooood…taxes baaaad".

That Clinton stoops to this level is at once despicable and at the same time not at all surprising.

That being said, even if she somehow steals the nomination, I'll vote against McCain…but my nose will hurt from holding it.

Politically Speaking   May 4th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

"The campaign is also taking issue with one of the ad's quotes from the New York Times saying ******Obama's proposal would "boost oil industry profits." ******Clinton spokesman Phil Singer says that quote pertained to John McCain's proposal for the suspension of the gas tax, not Hillary Clinton's."

CNN, do you proofread the articles you post? It's not Obama's proposal. I'm SURE that was just an innocent error on behalf of the Clinton News Network-CNN.

This is getting disgusting.

hamstring   May 4th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Hey Obama, just 18 cents a gallon would save me $8.00 per week. that might not sound like a lot of money for an elitist like yourself, but it would mean that my kids could actually have milk to go with thier cereal!!!!

Carol   May 4th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Obama is right about the gas tax. What does Hillary propose to do in states like Nevada where a gas tax holiday would be meaningless, given that if there is one, the money just goes directly to the state anyway? Our gas prices are rapidly approaching $4 a gallon. What are you going to do for us Hillary? Oh, and is it really any conincidence that the metaphor for your campaign is a dead horse?

Chris   May 4th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

She is trying to stay her ground..When she knows she got caught in a bogus Trick..And she and her team are losing this one. Clinton Knows that she is playing to try and paint him as an out of touch guy. But we are smarter than that!!!!

shelia   May 4th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

i do not get it why is obama going negative again i thought he said he was not running againt illary but mc cain anyway he and th rest are all the same.they will say and do anything to win.you never know who is telling the truth.you cannot belive obama too

Loretta   May 4th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Hillary is just saying what she thinks the people want to hear.
She can not do all the things she has promised.
Where would the money come from?
She says she has to clean up Bush's mess, well I hope he leaves a pile of poop on the floor for her to clean up.
Up with Bush down with Hillary!!~!~

benvictor   May 4th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

People need help and the consumers desperately need confidence. The combination of tax rebate and gas tax relief during this summer season will help get people through with their plans for the kids' vacation. Once past the hot summer months, consumers can achieve some measure of confidence with the expectation the Fall months will see the economy improve. This is no gimmick. BAMBI OBAMA has no ideas. This empty bag of wind can only challenge Hillary and John. Sad Sack is empty of experience and a record of accomplishment, so execting nothing from him should come as no surprise. BAMBI challenges Hillary and John concerning the tough talk about Iran. Frightening!! Does this mean he will kiss up to them?

NObama says NO to Indiana & North Carolina   May 4th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

To everyone who wants a President who has good ideas and acts instead of turning his back on the country, vote for Hillary!!!

Her summer gas tax relief is only one part of her energy program and she proposed long term solutions before Obama ever did.

Doctor Who   May 4th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Who really cares what goes on. Obama has already won the nomination. Cliton is just getting ready to run again in 2012. Why cover this mess at all?

bryan   May 4th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

30 dollars over 3 months, please!!!

Sarah   May 4th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Let's end this and send Clinton out to pasture. OBAMA 08′

nannie bouroughs, Kenosha, WI   May 4th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

The only "bogus gimmick." here is Senator Obama, who can't seem to make up his mind… in the past he voted (2) for a "Gas Tax Holiday", now he's against it!

Oh, I get it: IF Senator Obama proposes it, it's good; IF Hillary proposes it it's bad!

I think I understand it now…

Clinton or McCain, but NEVER obama   May 4th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

White people, you have no idea how cut-throat and low down black people can be until you have lived with them in the south and have to deal with them every day. Only a black person makes treats if obama isn't nominated.These people have made me truly hate them.

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   May 4th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

bogus gimmick is RIGHT…. Stupid Hillary knows the problem is corporate profits for oil companies, not piddling pennies in taxes… but both she and Bush back big profits for oil companies and will do nothing to stop them from destroying this country.

Dave, East Aurora NY   May 4th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Currently the Federal tax on gasoline is 18.4 cpg and 24.4 cpg for diesel, is earmarked for Federal road maintenance and construction and is levied on the premise that those vehicles used the most on such roads and those types of vehicles that tend to cause the most wear to such roads pay the most to use such roads. It's a user fee and although I dislike calling this anything but a tax, there is an inherent fairness to it. For the average user filling up 25 gallons of gasoline per week for 10 weeks, there would be a savings of $46; it is simple math and the only people saving that money would be those driving over roads and it's impossible to know whether they are driving over Federal roads or not. Bottom line is that this "tax holiday" is not just a short-sighted gimmick, it is fiscally irresponsible and trying to push windfall profits taxes to pay for the gimmick creates yet another bureacracy with more government jobs that won't invent anything (which, by the way, is Clinton's rationale for saying that oil companies deserve such a tax in the first place). Obama shouldn't have to defend his opposition to such gimmicks; hopefully people will take the time to do the math and see the sensible reasons for his o