CNN

what a cry baby obama is. No one also is whinning. If he can't handle that wow i'm scaried if he is our nominee. There is going to be more where that comes from obama. toughen up baby

TO: Obama All The Way

The Republicans may hate John McCain as you say, but he is the lessor of 2 evils.

I may disagree with McCain 35% – 40% of the time, but right now, I disagree with OBama 100% of the time.

Obama and his wife are both losers!!

Go get her!!!

Hey. I'm for IT!!!!! To compare Michele with Cindy???? Man, you can believe that the RNC will REGRET IT!!!!! Bring it on, cause you can SURE believe that Michele can handle it. She won't need Barack.

George you sir are an idiot!!!!!! shame on you dummy!!!!!! Bill Clinton was our ex president and left with all kinds of baggage!!!! And why did you bring up their church? racist!!!

The answer to this question is very simple .
If Michelle can't stand the heat, then she needs to go out of the 'national ' kitchen…
By the way, Mr. Blitzer, your interview with Senator Clinton was warm and touching. Excellent !

Whiner!

Very typical bogus Obama. Why do we care what Mr. Obama finds acceptable or unacceptable. He is not the POTUS yet, he does not, or should not, set the rules of political campaigning.

A president's wife should be in no way offlimits in the debate. Do you respect your wife's opinions? Will your wife influence your ideals and decisions in any way? If the answer is no, then I'd say there's something wrong with your marriage. If the answer is yes, then her beliefs, her positions and her graces and her faults are all part of the campaign.

If Hillary Clinton was married to someone un-American, or someone who was funding terrorism, it'd definitely be an issue. If John McCain was married to someone who was a complete bigot and slandered minorities, it would be an issue. Now, I'm not saying Michelle Obama is either of these things. Her words may have simply been taken out of context, but that's politics. You can't say that she's not a part of the package, because you chose her, just the same as you will choose your running mate. If you don't like the damage she causes, or won't take any of her views, then divorce her. The same goes for the friends that you willingly choose. Your pastor for example. But a wife is much closer than a pastor.

If Bill and Chelsea are fair game, why not Michelle?

So, it's OK to have your spouse stump for you on the campaign trail, but not OK to bring them to task for what they say? You can't have it both ways. If she can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen.

I agree with George, if Obama can dish it out (and he has) than he better be ready to take it as well!

Michelle Obama (Mrs. Sourpuss) always looks unhappy! I can't even imagine what it will be like if she becomes first lady and her husband won't be at her side 24/7. She wants him home with their children. Why since this was the first time in her adult life she was proud of her country, would she want her husband to run it. He could end up being hated like Bush! What will she do then?

Mrs McCain as a drug addict, ex con, a thief and a drunk has the most to loose. Why would the republicans wanno start such a party damaging fight? Bill Clinton is now so uninteresting. Michelle had a misunderstood comment. Figure out who the looser would be. Not a democrat at least!

I am an Obama supporter. That said , I think that anyone who is acting as surrogate for a candidate is in the mix...I just believe the press should get the facts right and quit digging/editing to have a story. The only ones off limits are children under age>

Mrs. McCain looks like she's a line away from hookin'.. hahaha!

It is unfortunate and it should not be so, but spouses are fair game. However, I would expect that a husband should jump in and defend his wife just as Senator Obama and President Clinton have done during this campaign. I would expect Senator Clinton to do the same for her husband, but the scenario is a little different considering he is still a political figure. Defending your spouse shows character and strength.

Ted (NC) May 19th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

John Kerry isn't President because America could not see his wife as our First Lady.

Life isn't fair and neither are elections. Stop whining and playing the victim.
----–

John Kerry isn't our president because Karl Rove stole the election in 2004 for Bush...remember Ohio and all the voting fraud there?

If spouses and family are going to hit the trail and stump for the candidate, they should not be off limits. Michelle has said some
stupid things, Bill has said some stupid things.....Cindy McCain????
Can she speak??? Deal with it and move on.

Go Hillary!

It's ridiculous how the GOP is attacking Michelle Obama. She is the most intelligent Black Woman. Look at McCain's wife who inherited her riches. All she does is stand next to McCain trying to look like an innoncent little barbie doll. Does she speak??? The GOP has nothing better to do, and seems to be very Itimidated by Michelle OBama because of her Strenth, Integrity, Intelligence. I guess they can't find anything else to do but try to discredit her. Now let's talk about the Cheating Lier, and the Used to be Drug Abuser, and Let's see those tax records...what's she got to hide if it's Legit.

They are not off limits....Does you or anyone else remember 1992 and Hillary Clinton? Talk about a double standard!!!

In the case of Bill Clinton, since he is a former president, he is an open target and fair game.

Cindy McCain has only to worry about her tax returns since she could put quite a bit of money into her husbands campaign funds. I would like to know how much she put into the campaign. How much does she know about her husband's exwife?

Michelle Obama should be lower on the radar. I don't think noting her comment was done correctly or nicely; granted this is politics and hatred seems to be a part of the game. Yes, she stumps for Barak Obama, but the quote, "I am really proud of the country" was not correctly understood. The fact that she said "really" shows that she had some level of pride in the country before, but that level has risen. If you can't see that, then you are blind or don't understand her.

A lot worse things could be said about Cindy McCain and her past. Obama, and even Clinton, took the high road on that issue. Attacking Michelle Obama is a gutter trick.

Attacking Bill is different because he was president and Hillary is running on her experience as first lady/co-president with Bill. Otherwise, I think wives and children (including Chelsea) should be off limits.

get a life! lets talk about some of the serious issues this country is facing. enough stupid jokes!!!

There is a lot of difference in what is and has been said about the other wives. These people are letting their true feelings show.

They should be, they aren't the ones running for office. There is no reason to attack Michelle or Cindy, but i think there might be a double standard for Bill because he was a past president. If he hadn't been president then there wouldn't be a reason to attack him.

Obama Richardson 2008

They are fair game, but it seems like the Democratic spouses always get the harshest criticism. McCain's wife (much like McCain) seems to be getting a free ride. All I'm saying is that it needs to be dished out evenly. If Bill and Michelle get attacked, then it's only fair that Cindy gets some questions as well (regarding her taxes and her private jet that was used for campaign purposes, among other things).

defending his wife may send the right kind of message

to the women who are supporting Hillary and reconciliation.

Wolf,

that is open to debate, but just remember, what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander too. What goes around comes around. The boomerang will definitely return.

I have no idea why the GOP would want to go after Michelle. They have only themselves to blame when Cindy McCain is the target, and boy she sure has some baggage.

Cindy McCain,

Stealing drugs,
Refusing to make her tax returns public
Carrying on with her husband while he was still married
Sale of Sudan Shares.
I don't need to go on, I'm sure you get the idea.

Bill Clinton,

Impeachment
receipt of $millions to aid China negotiations
Receipt of $800,000 for negotiating Colombia deal.
Nafta and Cafta
Again I am sure you get the idea.

If a spouse campaigns as an appendage (like Huckabee's wife did) then leae them alone. But if they campaign and take center stage, like Bill or Michelle, then what they say is fair game.

And I support Obama.

Of course it should be fair game. Bill Clinton has withstood all the crying and whining from all the Obamacans & media, why shouldn't porr Michelle be subjected to the same scrutiny? Wasn't she the one that opened her mouth to say that she was proud of her country for the first time ever in 2008?
Obama comes a cross as the kid in school who would most likely go home and cry to mommy after someone stole his lunch money.

Get some cojones already. Or give McCain a call and have him explain to you the meaning of toughness..

If she cannot take the heat, she can stay home and bake cookies...

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Spouses are fair game, but it seems like the Democratic spouses always get the harshest criticism. McCain's wife (much like McCain) seems to be getting a free ride. All I'm saying is that it needs to be dished out evenly. If Bill and Michelle get attacked, then it's only fair that Cindy gets some questions as well (regarding her taxes and her private jet that was used for campaign purposes, among other things).

As a foreigner- I am shocked to notice that so many Americans are arguing unnecessarily within themselves. like Democrats fighting with democrats & Mrs Clinton's getting bitter, reps & dems fighting with each other while as one nation while Mr Maverick shows his flip flop side – America needs to do so much serious work in order to gain its dignity and economic prosperity back in the new global power shift in recent years. This democracy is too far stretched to the extent of wasteful and inefficient.

Why not to have a President elected and respect the person in lead and work for better future. What difference it makes if Obama will be an president against Clinton so long as the dems have their agenda for America clear and everybody is contributing into it.

I had tremendous respect for CNN over BBC, but looking their coverage now it feels that they are also amongst whose who use politics and news for bigger benefits than providing a rationale analysis and covering wider aspects outside sick politics.

Spouses are fair game, but it seems like the Democratic spouses always get the harshest criticism. McCain's wife (much like McCain) seems to be getting a free ride. All I'm saying is that it needs to be dished out evenly. If Bill and Michelle get attacked, then it's only fair that Cindy gets some questions as well (regarding her taxes and her private jet that was used for campaign purposes, among other things).

Hillary Clinton got jacknifed every time she turned around as First Lady and before as the candidates wife. She has been accused of everything, including murder!!!!!

So, suck it up, Barack.

Everything is not fair game.

Bill Clinton was a former president using his influence and connections to stump for presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Under those circumstances, it's fair to discuss Bill's actions that are germane to this campaign. Monica-gate doesn't fall into that catagory

Unlike Bill, Michele has not been dispatech like he has because she doesn't have a political following like he does. There is no prior presidential status for her to exploit.

Michele Obama's words have been altered to by the Tennessee GOP to misrepresent her, I believe when she was making an introduction of Senator Obama. This is a fair cry from the Bill Clinton scenario.

Cindi McCain and Michele Obama have about the same level of involvement. Given the purported issues with Mrs. McCain (questionalbe investments, addiction to prescription drugs, interference in John's 1st marriage), the McCain's likely don't want to have her as part of the nations discussion. Nor should she be.

Well I would like to think so.. At least those spouses that have no political history.

I would like to say to all Hillary supporters.. to vote for McCain simply because you don't like Obama is going against most everything Hillary is for and to you to call that support is beyond me.

For myself, I wont vote if Obama isnt the nominee as I will not vote Hillary for personal reasons and certainly wont vote for McCain since hes just another Bush. I will wait 4 years and pray again for a canidate that has my same beliefs. If there is no one like that in 4 years, I will vote for the lesser of the evils or simply once again not vote.

Obama 08/09

Isn't this old news?

McCain must be losing his short term memory....For that matter, so have the Republicans from Tennessee.

Why is Obama's wife allowed to get away with making scathing remarks about our country? What makes her any different than any other spouse? She wants to sit next to her husband in the White House doesn't she? If she wasn't proud of our country before this, why would she want to be the first lady? Who are we kidding here? We know exactly what she meant by that remark. It's because her husband is running and he is an African-American so this is why she is suddenly so proud! That was relatively racist statement if I ever heard one. Why is it that the the whole country and the news media were allowed to make awful remarks about Hillary and Bill Clinton and everyone else and no one is allowed to have their say about a potential first lady of our country? Come on everyone get real!! This whole race thing is so overplayed that it is ridiculous! It is what it is!!

why should anybody be proud of america lately?

If they campaign for husband/wife no they should not

Obama is not wrong for defending HIS WIFE. Just like Hillary defended her husband for the comments he made in South Carolina. Ask yourselves...who's comments were worse?

I wish Hillary had spent her time baking cookies.

Michelle's Comments?
Cindy's history?, republicans should prolly think this one through.

Go Barack!, What kind of a man won't defend his wife? A coward!

Obama/Clinton 08

Wolf,

Once they begin stumping for their spouses, they and their words are fair game. Only the candidates minor children (if any) are untouchable. So if they can't take critsism they should stay home and keep their mouths shut.

Apparently just Obama's! Hasn't ANYONE noticed that the rules don't apply to him?

unfortunately, the candidates are not judge on their own merits.

The GOP only know negative attacks and that is why they are out the door. They would attack their own families if it means getting ahead of the line for popcorn?

Penna via Canada

i think drug addicts should be kept our of our Whitehouse. Sorry Mrs. McCain.

This presidential nomination period has brought all kinds of firsts.

First woman having a reasonable chance to get nomination and first black man having a reasonable chance at getting a nomination.

I think this question highlights something which your system needs to consider. Bill Clinton isn't "just" a spouse, he is a former president. Even if spouses are deemed off limits, he would still be in play because of this.

However, I don't think this is the problem, it just points out a problem. The question of term limits should include immediate family. We should not have seen George W Bush follow in his father's footsteps, nor Bill Clinton's wife following in his footsteps. A reason for term limits is to limit the amount of power a family exerts on the presidency. Allowing husbands, wives, children and siblings of existing/former presidents is sidestepping the term limits, and should not be allowed.

Poor little boy Barack, everyone picks on him. It is alright if they talk about America in very deragotory terms, but dont criticize the king and queen Obama They will never survive the election. Senator McCain is so much above them, so intelligent, and looks so presidental, and I am very proud of him. It will be wonderful when he is inaugarated as the President of the "57" states. Did he say what he plans to do if the Republicans dont lay off his wife? They lie when they say they love America. NOT!! They hope to bring us down and give us to Iran.

Isn't this coming from the campaign that has attacked Bill Clinton for just about everything that he has said, not only on the campaign trail but all that he did as President?

I do believe that Hillary was harshly attacked both when Bill was running and while she was in the WH. Surely this did not go unoticed by a smart man like Obama. He knew this was going to happen.

Face it, if you or anyone in your family (remember Billy Carter) say anything that can be used against you, then it will. Welcome to the big leagues. Don't act like you didn't know this was going to happen.

Fair Game!!! Where was this attitude when you all defended Chelsea aginst her questions about Monica???? I can't wait until all of you baby's no longer have the coal miners daughter to root for. Maybe then you will go away...

as much as i like all the candidates spouses, you are involved once you are in the campaign and can expect scrutiny....that being said, I think Chelsea Clinton is the best of the lot. What an upstanding young woman!

I am an Obama supporter, but I think he has to realize that Michele is campaining for him and that she can take the heat. Personally I agree with what Michelle Obama said, I have never been proud of my country since I have dug into politics, but Obama has been a breath of fresh air. Obama/Hagel 2008

Yep! All is fair in Love & Politics

spouses are not off limits. they are pivital influences in the white house and therefore, must be scrutinized as well...however, the nastiness of the Tenn. GOP is uncalled for. Michelle Obama was clearly not expressing a sentiment that she was never proud of this country befiore her husband started winnign primaries. Instead, she said she was never as proud, meaning, she was proud before, but even more so now. The Karl Rove type of campainging is what's uncalled for as to the spouses.

But, if you're Cindy McCain, then all bets are off. Cindy, where are your tax returns? What do you have to hide? The tax deduction for McCain's Depends? Expensing yourself as McCain's official Depends changer?

FOLLOWING UP ON MY EARLIER COMMENT,
BILL CLINTON HAS GONE OUT OF HIS WAY TO PERSISTENTLY INVITE CRITICISM. HE HAS ALMOST BECAME HIS WIFE'S MASCOT, WHICH MADE HIM DIFFERENT FROM THE SPOUSES OF ALMOST EVERY OTHER PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE. I AM SURE HE WAS TOLD TO TONE DOWN BY HILARY HERSELF.

Obamamites, Cindy is not a security threat. So go ahead and bring out her faults. Also while you are at it, check out what she does in the Charity work area, here and abroad.

Bring it on, Cindy will shine compared to Michelle's I am now proud of my country.

Common decency would dictate that
they should be off limits if they are running.

If the wives are cnaditates, no.

But if they are not candidates they should be off
limits.

The republicans just DONT get it!!!!

they are considered bad dog food to be taken off the shelves
(their opinion of themselves)
America is FED UP up with their Rove playbook style
Why do you think senator Obama has done so well.... bc he stays clear of this BS
Get it thru your fear mongering Rovian attack minds!!!!

Very simple answer :

If Michelle can't stand the heat, than she needs to go out of the 'national ' kitchen...

By the way, Mr. Blitzer, your interview with Senator Clinton was warm and touching. Excellent !

Speak for your self Wolf How would you feel if some one insults you wife. The spouse are not running to be president if you have issuses with the candidate that is fare game. Wolf you are from the older generation with twisted mind it might be okay for you to report feud between families, but it is not okay to the family who have values, you stupid media all you care about is make everything news and make money out of it you make me sick.

Stupid question. Yes, they SHOULD be off-limits. But our leaders are no longer moral and have no integrity. Let's re-frame the question. Is your spouse off-limits?

This question applies to anyone, and please don't give me the "he's running for public office" crap. That is no excuse to be rude, uncivil, and treat people poorly.

Inane question.

Yes, spouses are fair game when it is an influential reason to doubt a candidate. Ok, Michelle said that she was proud to be an American for the first time in her life does not mean that she hated America. It means that the American People are actually starting to take part in this country from every state and small rural town in between. There have been record numbers of turn outs for this election process because it truly means something to people, whether its simply due to possible first female or first black president. The face of America is about to change and it has a lot of Americans excited and proud.

Whatever the spouse said on the campain trial should be fair game, anything else no. With the exception for those that held public office, as it is a matter of public record.

How dare he criticize the media for bashing his wife.
She has to be compared to Clinton.
What's good for the goose is good for the gander.

While I am speaking about Obama and his wife:

Why is McCain not talking about Obama's supporter talking to Hamas last week.

New York times and CNN both discussded this issue.

Wolf,

They'll go after her but only because they have no issues to debate which is fine. I guess that also means that the Keating Five and John Hagee are on the table as well? I can't tell because I haven't heard you mention either topic once while you stand up there reporting.

First of all Bill Clinton doesn't count he is a professional

Hillary Clinton said it's a Co-presidency in '92

Everyone else is off limits unless there is a policy Gaffe

a misatatement at best and a her experience as a black woman born in the early sixities at worst.

It's not acceptable to go after his Wife period

and if it is

then the left is going to talk about her drug use, stealing pills and tax returns.

Leave them all alone

I amazed how little people think. OF COURSE Bill Clinton isnt off limit – HE WAS PRESIDENT – TWICE!!!! Why would he be off limits?
Since we are at it, lets attack the whole family, I mean, they will all have opinions which will be GREAT fodder for the media, why not?

Is this the politics we delight ourselves in? Lets hammer Cindy and Michelle to death about everything, after all, they are running for office, there are no REAL issues to deal with,. Hammering them will get the soldiers out of Iraq, and produce a precipitious fall in oil and gas prices. Stupid.

Somewhere down the road America has LOST the simple and plain respect for "women", that was taught to many "children" of past generations!! To demean Michelle Obama, or Cindy McCain, or any "woman" in this campaign is unacceptable!! There are many "political battles" that will come from the general election campaign, but PLEASE, PLEASE, LEAVE MICHELLE OBAMA AND CINDY MCCAIN out of those battles!! RESPECT!! RESPECT!!
PLEASE!!

where are all the bill clinton bashers? i guess hypocrisy is an ugly mirror... former president or not, bill clinton's comments affected hillary's candidacy. so fair is fair. michelle obama's not off limits.

besides, i bet bill clinton has ALWAYS been proud of this country. and as an immigrant, i can recall being proud of this country even before i came here over 24 years ago...

Yes, I think candidates' spouses should be off limits.

The wives of Obama and McCain should be off topic. In Clinton's case, her spouse was president of the United States, so it is appropriate that his policies be questioned.

Completely off limits...makes absolutely no difference what they do or say. Come on, are you serious?

THE GOP HAD BETTER BACK OFF OF MRS. OBAMA. Stick to the issues and not worry about her. They are already in a pickle as it is and need not be so petty by trying to use what Mrs. Obama said months ago. That will not put anything on anyones table or in there tank.

Trying to say positive in Georgia

Spouse are not off limits, Michele is part of the campaign, everything she says will be under a microscope and that is the way it should be.
He has a lot of guts saying "Lay off of my Wife". That sounded like a threat to me, is that was potential presidents sound like. What a whiny wimp he is.

Obama is NOT WHINING..he is defending his wife/family like anyone would do..I'm sure when Cindy McCain gets attacked, her hubby will say something too...this is to be expected REGARDLESS of who it is...grow up...

Would you let anyone attack your family whether it was right or wrong for them to do so???

Apparently not unless you happen to be Obama. Everyone else has their spouses scrutinized because they are also privy to sensitive information and can also become a security threat. That is why it is important to know about their spouses. They are the first confidant after their preachers. Oh did I say preachers?....Sorry slip up. I will get it Wright the next time.

I happen to feel the same as Michelle Obama. I am a 37 year old black female and for the first time in my life I am proud to be an American. I have never felt as if U was apart of America until now. And it is partly because of Barack Obama. What she said was taking out of turn. But this game has never been far. And for the first time in my 37 years I feel that this might be the chance to make America right because for so long it’s been wrong. Let’s fix the wrongs by telling the truth and that was her truth she wasn’t speaking for anyone but her self but I clearly understand what she said. Now as for Bill Clinton he but himself out there with the things he said as if he was speaking for his wife not himself. That is the difference.

Post this. Whoever is moderating needs to pay closer attention to what comments actually contribute to a healthy dialogue, and which are useless.

The only time the candidates' spouses should be fair game is if they're "in the game."

Bill Clinton is campaigning on behalf of his wife, and has leveled attacks at Obama. Response is justified. Also, it's obvious that Bill Clinton is a major influence in the HRC campaign, so he is open to criticism in the same way Obama has been criticized for having a relationship with Reverend Wright.

McCain has supported tax legislation that directly benefits his wife, who is refusing to reveal her income taxes. She is fair game on this issue only, because the American public deserves to know whether McCain can be trusted when it comes to taking care of the "average" Americans like he promises to. She should not be subjected to personal attacks, however.

Obama's wife has not attacked any of the other candidates. She is not directly active in his campaigning, and is not concealing information the way McCain's wife is. So she should be off limits. There is no basis for involving her in any criticism or attacks.

Wolf, the spouses should be off limits, but it doesn't seem so. I have not seen Senator Obama running his ads, etc. about any of the other candidate spouses. The one thing that I do know is that whatever they throw at Michelle Obama – she can handle it. Hold it in the road Mrs. Obama.

Has Obama said anything negative about anyones wife? NO!!! He is just trying to keep things clean. Trust me...I am sure there is plenty of ammo out the for McCain and HRC spouses that he is man enough not to use.

It may not be right, but that's what happens when you throw you hat in the ring for the presidency. The GOP & media did a real number on Hillary, Bill and Teresa. They also went after Chelsea for the Lewinsky scandal. Obama should have known better especially with Michele out there at speaking engagements. She's either fair game or needs to stay home & out of the spotlight.

If you read the blogs, Obama supporters are destroying Cindy McCain with her past. So I guess what's good for the goose is good for the gander.

Dear fellow Obama supporters,
Please stop posting hateful remarks about Senator Clinton. The negativity is uncalled for. We are all Americans, and are all entitled to our opinions – but in the spirit of representing Senator Obama, she should show Senator Clinton and her supporters the utmost respect in the public discussion forums. Both candidates (Clinton and Obama) have and will take enough heat from Republicans. Certainly, we can show them some love within our own party. I venture to make the same request of Senator Clinton’s supporters, with regard to negative comments about Obama.

Leave Michelle alone! She's a great person and doesn't deserve this. That said, what a wonderful time to be alive! Obama will lead us to the promised land. He is such a revelation and I can't understand how all of you who support that witch can't see Obama for the blessing that he is. I don't know where our great nation would be without such an amazing leader. There is something truly special about him that inspires me with such hope.

President Barack Obama in 2008, 2012
YES WE CAN

i DONT THINK SPOUSE SHOULD BE INCLUDED OR ATTACKED ITS NOT THEM APPLYINGFOR THE JOB THINK OF IT THAT WAY IF YOUR WERE APPLYING FOR A JOB DO YOU THINK YOUR EMPLOYER WOULD CARE ABOUT WHAT YOUR SPOUSE THINKS NO THE ONLY CONCERN WOULD BE ARE YOU QUALIFIED FOR THIS POSITION NOT YOUR SPOUSE

Barack Obamahas shown a very thin skin by attacking anyone in the way he attacks them. Such as rev. wright and others ,wonder what will happen when one of those "bad" countries or someone in this country dares criticise?

CNN – why is is that certain posters show up in every blog Terri in FL, Sweetie, etc.), yet when I make pointed, concise, intelligent observations, they are left out? This continues to occur in every blog I post in. Wake up.

NO, not off limits, keep the good stuff coming! lol

I do not believe the spouse of the candidate are relevant. I do not care about Mrs. McCain's income taxes. I do not really care about Mrs. Obama's comments. They have never been elected politician. Bill Clinton is different. He is a former president and politician. His comments carry more weight. Bill Clinton is fair game.

If Barack and Michelle can't stand the heat, they should get out of the oven. NOTHING is off limits or sacrosanct in our culture anymore. Once upon a time there were, but not anymore.

McShame's history with wives is a whole lot more interesting than Michelle saying(and let me get the quote EXACTLY right since it is incorrectly quoted on MSM): "For the first time in my adult life, I am really proud to be an American."

Nothing wrong with that, in fact, that is EXACTLY how I feel right now. Me and all the other millions that are going to hire Mr. Obama to be our president. We speak through him and nothing is going to change that.

Wow, it has become a pattern – this time is Sen. Robert Byrd come to the rescue before Obama's landslide defeat in Kentucky. I wonder who else will be the one after tomorrow to rescue this whining baby!

Nope! The gloves are off.

Obamas gang has attacked Bill and Chelsea Clinton.

Obamas gang has attacked Cindy Mccain.

Michelle you are just going to get back what your husband
and his gang have been giving out all along. Karma does exist!

DING DING DING DING DING, ROUND TWO!

Not if they insist on being part of the process and I don't mean standing next to their husbamd at a victory speech or rally.
On Good Morning America today, Sen Obama told people to "back off Michelle" – the problem is you can't have it both ways. If she is going to out there promting her husband or making statements of her own, then she becomes fair game for criticism, just as Bill Clinton is/was for Hilllary. Michelle is a strong women and can defend herself. She may be to Barack, what Hillary was for Bill- not a bad thing!
Cindy seems to do a lot of smiling but I haven't heard her speak much.

Someone made a pretty good point that if they are campaigning then they kind of put themselves in the position to be "fair game." However, they really aren't the ones that are of main concern. It is the candidates, and nothing is worse than terrible arguments against those who really aren't relevant. On a side note, I really think McCain and Co. should stay away from bashing Obama's wife since his wife is far from perfect. And I don't think there can be much more bashing of Bill Clinton since his stuff has been in the open for awhile. That is a big plus for Hillary.

Sen Obama is right. families shouldn't be a target but they are. so let's talk about Cindy's drug addiction and husband stealing. ok

Goodness people! He said she was off limits. THis is merely how he feels about it. Attack her and he will respond. He is just letting the GOP know how he feels about it since the question was asked. They can take it. They are African Americans...this is nothing...we deal with it all day long, everyday of our lives.

If we don't like it, you'll know. Now, as for Obama, now you know. Take your chances.

More important: Why is the "largest election fraud case in the history of the United States" off limts by mainstream media? Wolf, why don't you report on the case of Peter Paul vs. Clinton? Huh? Why? Didn't hear you......

Can you speak up?

(Crickets chirping......)

Wolf,

Your questions evey single day always seem to be a little anti-Obama leaning. I think if Obama wants to defend his wife then that is a nobel thing to do. Who wouldn't stick up for their family against hate. Cindy's taxes are not a "personal" attack on Cindy but a transparency issue so I don't think that's comparing apples to apples.

Hillary Clinton is partly running on Bill Clinton's record and the 90s Clinton Presidency so of course you can argue points about Bill.

I think what the Tennessee GOP is doing is pure malice and has nothing to do with issues. But it is part of the GOP Brand which has been compared to Dog Food by it's own members so it's expected.

Of course she'll be an issue but the GOP needs to urge Cindy to release those taxes so we're on a level playing field. We've already seen her sell off $2 million in investements in the Sudan so who knows what else is hiding in the $100 million.

Hell no. If the race is decided by who would be the best first lady Cindy McCain would win hands down. Bill would be a close second if he agreed to dress in drag all the time, lol.

It seems my comments are always hung up hmm WHY?

This is the first time an actually TV AD was run attacking the wife of candidates. Thats the problem. Its one thing to ask questions about tax returns and another to run negative AD's on his wife.

GOP continues to sink to new lows.

Well - Bill Clinton is fair game in this instance because he's already been president. Otherwise, I'd prefer to keep the spouses out of it. Attacks on Cindi McCain over her money and not releasing tax returns are pretty mild. When they become destructive and mean, no matter who the recipient is - that's stepping over the line.

SPOUSES ARE FAIR GAME MR. OPAMA. YOUR SUPPORTERS HAVE RIDICULED AND MADE A FOOL OUT OF PRESIDENT CLINTON. SO PLEASE STOOOOOOOOOOP WHINING OK??? THIS IS NOTHING COMPARED TO WHAT IS COMING YOUR WAY. THE HONEYMOON IS ABOUT OVER.

AS LONG AS THEY LEAVE YOUR KIDS OUT. MICHELLE INJECTED HERSELF IN THIS RACE AND SHE SHOULD ALSO SHUT UP OR GET OUT BOTH OF YOU OR TAKE A LESSON FROM HILLARY

Of course they are not off limits. Especially when that spouse wants to be the first lady but has made comments about not even liking the country she wants to represent! I don't want to see a First Lady who has not been proud of America before now.

What kind of a man would he be if he didn't support and defend his wife? he has every right to do that. It's not whining, it's the right thing to do, it's the brave thing to do.

If they're campaigning they're fair game.

Hell no. If the race is decided by who would be the best first lady either Cindy would win hands down. Bill would be a close second if he agreed to dress in drag all the time, lol.

How can Obama criticize Hillary's spouse the ex president and say that no one can criticize what his wife says on the campaign stump. He needs to get real. If she is out there campaigning than her statements are fair game. He should direct his energy to schooling his wife on what to say or not say.

Hey now the person that stood by without commenting on the rep.Steve Cohen .Tenn. attacking her as like the glenn close character and that she should be shot again and die how can anything said by just repeating Michele 's words. He stood by at didn't say a word and attacking her on a personal level along with many of his supporters ,some on the nat. "news" networks.
this is for cafferetty's question about the rally with so many people, WELL DID he forget to mention that Bruce Springsteen was there and as a fan of his he gets huge ,huge crowds without obama.....do you think maybe thats part of the reason?

LOL!!!

So when you talk about Bill Clinton to score a polital point on Hillary shouldb viewed as fair. If that fine then Michelle is a fair game too. Take the heat sir. For a year you and your supporters have called Bill all the names in your book, that includes you. So lets play. This is the world arena, we are not in chicago or in your church. This is America and the world stage. If you don't like it, get out and fast.

if they stump for you, they are considered open game to critism.

First of all Bill is fair game because he was a former President and Hillary was trying to run off of his experience. So because of that, Bill's policies were under scrutiny. If Hillary did not try to take credit for Bill's presidency then he wouldn't have been. Remember Hillary included her first lady experience in her 35 years of experience which included her husband's legacy which was fair game. Neither Michelle or Cindy have ever run for political office, but what they do say or what they have done will come under scrutiny. But Republicans should be careful because Cindy has a negative history.

Cindy McCain has hardly been mentioned so far in this campaign. There is no comparison. John Kerry's wife was criticized, but not in the same way the media and the GOP has attacked Michelle Obama. The media doesn't necessarily attack Bill Clinton, he does a fine job doing it himself.

Obama is going to have learn how to deal with it if he wants to run for president.

Since when is a man soft for defending his wife? Isn't that what he is supposed to do? The TN GOP has edited Michelle's comments for their benefit. If you LISTEN to what Obama said, he was upset that they were twisting her words.

You Obama haters are pathetic. This guy can do nothin right. I hope you keep your vote and I hope Obama ignores ALL of you. He should be able to win this thing without you. Republicans HATE McCain and most will be voting for Obama. Thank goodness.

Bill is the exception because he is a politician not just a spouse.

Attributing his policies, accomplishments as well as failures to HRC were done by HRC herself in her numerous "experince" claims.

Attacking a spouse for something that wasnt directed at anyone or any particular thing isn't fair. To attack a spouse for making racial comments becomes fair game.

Mrs. Obama did not say she wasnt ever proud of this country, she said this was the FIRST time she was REALLY PROUD in her ADULT LIFE.

I think spouses are fair game, but yes, that goes either way, and anyone who engages in those tactics would be wise not to go so far as to appear ridiculous and off-point. They're out on the trail and they are certainly influential, but they're still not the ones running.

I do understand that Hillary needs to become the President. Once Nov. comes, you have alot to answer for. This Peter Paul case can land you and your husband in jail. You better pray that Obama picks you as the V.P.

Ha i like how Bill is up there with the other wives i find it comical

I feel that this is just like with Chelsea.

If they are out there, actively campaigning for their husband / mother, then they are fair game. If they are not, then they sould be off limits.

I'm just wondering when it was OK to attack anyone? People are not perfect and to attack someone over something as stupid as this comment shows the GOP is reaching for something to blast Obama on. Frankly, she is not running for President just as the pastor is not either.

This is gossip, not an issue.

Only Michelle is off limits, she's african-american you racists.

Obama! President for life! To hell with elections.

I think the default stance should be that they're off limits ... until they appear on the campaign trail. If they are to be private – keep them private.

I'm a supporter of Obama, but this is an example of where he's wrong. It won't change my support of him – no one is perfect and I understand the frustration – but he's still wrong.

What else would theytalk about? $4 gas, almost 4100 soldiers dead on a lie, or how about foreclosures, or how about high food prices, or how about 35,000 soldiers injured, or how about the 42,000 soldiers that are getting sent out, or how about waterboarding, or how about Gitmo, or how about the murdering of Iraqi's by Blackwater, or how about my soldiers that cannot get water? Yeah, talk about Michelle. I am an old woman, and for the first time in many years, I am proud of these kids, getting involved.

Chuck;

You said all what I wanted to say

Chuck, Democrats United We Stand May 19th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Your right, if Obama was a "WHITE" man, he would have already won and sewed this nomination up. Why, it's his message, it is his stand, it is the way he runs his campaign, and lastly it is the simple fact, that he has done a great job of not going completely hostile and negative against Hillary. Although they have both been somewhat hostile and negative towards each other he has done a great job of staying away from politics of the old. One last comment, had he been white, Obama could have tossed the same crap at Hillary as she did at him and gotten away with it. The fact that he is not white has been a hinderance, the white america would not accept a none white going negative and mean spirited at a white woman. That is the sad but honest truth. My hat is off to this man, for what he has accomplished.

They should be not only off limits but off of this continent. Sheez.. Bill is prettier than the other two.

If they open their traps (Michelle/Bill) then they are not off limits. If they stand there like a mute (McCain), you have to question what sort of man would marry such a person.

Hillary 08

I think you are exactly correct, Wolf. I am a63 year white male supporter of Obama; however, I think what Obama is saying to McBush is Cindy becomes fair game as well if the Republicans are going to target Michelle.

I have no problem with that because Mitchelle is going to come out way on top over Cindy. We know all about her, her wealth, their marriage, his first wife, her IRS records, her drug problems and several other juicy tidbits that some in the press have been saving until after the two national conventions.

Also, I think it's great for one spouse to defend another. That's one thing you never heard Hillary do about Bill once he actually told the truth about his sexual relationlship iwth Monica. I see McBush as one who lets his henchmen do the dirty work while he himself tries to appear as a patriot and a hero. But he tarnishes that image with his whinning and all. I say spouses are fair game but McBush and the Republicans need to be very careful for what they wish for.

Mr. Clinton was President and deemed Mrs. Clinton his co-President. The two spouses have totally different roles in this campaign.

",,,is everyone fair game?" Hmmmm it seems that no one has been allowed to get anywhere near the 28-year old baby-child, Chelsea Clinton .....no press were allowed to ask her questions, the Republicans didn't touch her.....and when she did get a question about Monica Lewinsky everyone (including the press) flew to her side to defend her. No touchy.....she's "family".

Hillary and Bill made it VERY CLEAR to everyone that NO ONE was to ask Chelsea anything........and they didn't.

I'm sure Cindy McCain will hide behind her money (no tax returns ever) and BIll Clinton will hide behind his questionably funded Clinton Library (donor list not yet released)....so why would Barack want his wife to be devoured by the Republicans over one careless comment?

This is not whining folks, this is about fair play.....

It's not fair, BUT anyone who acts as a campaign surrogate: wife, daughter, friend, brother, pastor (Wright was not a surrogate) can be attached to the campaign and should be held responsible for properly representing the campaign. Bill Clinton bears the additional burden of also having been President of the United States, he should be held to a HIGHER standard.

I don't feel that this little slip by Michelle Obama is substantive enough to merit any attention at all by the 'Pubs. Perhaps they should spend more time actually trying to support and shore up their foundation of sand on the issues of the economy, education, health care, and the War.

Bill was not off limits as he was campaigning for Hillary. So he is fair game and the Obama camp insinuated he played the race card and the media fell for it and that was the start of the sinking of Hillary's campaign. They lost the black vote
McCains wife only stands on stage then moves off when her husband speaks. She is the typical polititians wife. She does not do her own events
Michelle Obama has events she actively campaigns at for her husband.
She and ALL her remarks are open to scutiny.
I also think that if Obama and his wife have their children on the trail with them and have these children say things lie vote for my daddy this goes to his judgment of using his children for votes.

This is the change that Obama is talking about in his campaign. It is time to discuss the issues and stop attacking politicans wives. First, Michelle is not running for president. Second, Bill Clinton was scrutinize because he was the former president and Hillary was running on his policies. it should be brought to question (NAFTA etc). Third, when Hillary was heavily scrutinize by the republicans, democrats said it was sexism. Now when Obama's wife gets scrutinize it is not sexism. She should take the heat. I don't understand the double standards. It appears to me that the Hillary supporters and the republicans are the ones that are hypocritical. Stick with the issues.

2 words hell no. obama dishs it out but can not take the heat. He needs to go back to the kitchen and take his dog with him.

Uh, Have they ever been off limits?? No. Bill Clinton took a sound beating in the press as did Chelsea. It is the nature of being in the public eye and the result of our highly valued and protected freedom of speech.
If f public figures have the freedom to say anything and be scrutinized to the inth degree, then it stands to reason that adult family members will be held to the same standards. Although sometimes this freedom crosses ethical boundaries, it is better to have this freedom than have it restricted in anyway. Just me humble opinion.

Obama's wife has thrust herself into this campaign. Her comments have generated serious controversy. Her statements deserve scrutiny. She's called down the thunder. She is fair game.

Yeah...because attacking a former president's statements is the same as attacking a candidates wife.

You must really have an IQ more than 99, huh?
you and your team – the "best political team" sucks ! who ever voted you that !

Ever wonder why the political system is broken? Because bologna like this is considered worthy of headlines. Instead of focusing on issues, we continue to play "jerry springer". Small minds need excitement.

Cindy McCain’s wealth and her refusal to release her income tax and other financial records have been examined.

It has not been examined enough. Cindy McCain needs to release ALL her tax records, INCLUDING a list of all her investments so we can be sure that she has not benefitted personally from any legislation advanced by her husband.

Criticism over a particular comment like Hillary's "cookie" comment or Michelle's "proud" comment are one thing, an all out smear campaign is quite another.

For far too many that comment in these pages, the end seems to justify the means.

Well it certainly seems to be the case just for Democratic wives. Hmmm strange yes?

Bill is the exception because he is a politician not just a spouse.

I think that the republican party simply needs to put their dirty rags away. These men's wives are not up for election, they are. The same goes for Hillary and Bill. The fact of that matter is, sadly, that both parties would most likely do whatever they feel necessary to bash the other candidates. This tatic has been used for years in our country and I'm frankly not that surprised why everyone is making such a great ordeal out of the situation. "Oh no, my opponent is telling lies about my family and I, what should I do?!" Address the problem publically with your wife and let those money-hungry republicans know that it will take much more than ridiculous video editing and word-of-mouth rumors to shake the democrats undying commitment to finally make our America a place worth living in again.

No they are not, especially when they are as outspoken, and obnoxious and arrogant as Michelle Obama! Children however are certainly off limits. Sen. Obama will lose because of his arrogance, and she certainly will help him.
Go McCain

ALL IS FAIR IN LOVE & POLITICS BETWEEN THE CONTENDERS.

IF THE SPOUSES & FAMILY MEMBERS GO AROUND THE NATION

ATTACKING THE OPPOSITION, THEY SHOULD BE READY

FOR A RETURN ON THEIR INVESTMENT.

CASE IN POINT, CINDY MCWINIE GOING AROUND TALKING

MORALS & HONESTY WHEN SHE WAS ROBBING THE POOR

OF PAIN PILLS.

I just like seeing the picture of Bill next to two women. I bet he is fine as long as they put him in the middle like a Bill sandwich. Then he wouldnt care what is going on and if you asked him about it he would say "that's my personal business".

People are upset by Obama's "Attacks" on Bill Clinton. Last time I check, he is a politician. That is fair game. Mrs Obama & McCain are not. They are married into this Game. Bill signed himself up just like Hillary, Barak & John did. So yes, leave the non-politicians out of the politics.

No, nothing's off limits in politics. However, if you're going to bring M. Obama in, we'll have to bring in C. McCain in (we've already thrown Bill out). I don't think McCain wants us to dig in his wife's past. He won't have the upper hand.

Let's see–unfortunate wording of a comment or stealing drugs as an adult from a charity and cooperating with the Keating 5 scandal. Which is worse? Why is there no income tax from Mrs. McCain to be scrutinized?

Obama should stand up for his wife. Just like we want him to stand up for the American people when he is President. McCain doesn't stand up for his wife, in fact he's know to call her very unsavory words. If you have no respect for your wife than to publicly call her bad names, why would the American people, especially women, think he would have any respect for them.

Well then if Michelle is fair game, then Cindy definitely is. Republicans should be careful about the line they're treading because Cindy definitely doesn't have a positive history or past.

Spouses haven't been off limit so far in the campaign, so why now.
That is because the spouse under attack now is Michelle Obama. She shouldn't be given special treatment. She is an has been an active part of her husband's campaign, have said some offensive things about this country and is very opinionated. If she can't take it like the others have had to then she should take a back seat. look what the obama people did to Bill Clinton with the race thing.

I agree, the spouses should be off limits unless you give them all "fair" time. Call Clinton on her husband; also call McCain on his wife and her drugs…..
Btw… all women should note that Hillary is said to be for women but how can she have a campaign office across the street from a nudey bar or strip bar if you will. And how can the follow someone that has no problem in "mis speaking about "sniper" fire?!?!? I am a middle age mixed ethnic American WOMAN that can not support a person like that. Yes, women in politics, but not this women in the White House ever again!

Why did Obama go after Bill Clinton if he felt spouses should be "off limits"? He is a hyprocrit.

Mr. Obama,

They can't "lay off" your wife because YOU DON'T HAVE A TRACK RECORD!

Cry me a river. The media and Obama campain have attacked Bill Clinton the whole time. Bill Clinton, as well as everyone else who doesn't vote Obama is a racist.

Truly sick of Obama. What a cry baby.

I think Hillary said it best.... Can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.

Better put Michelle back in hiding. Her negative, unpatriotic mouth is Obama's biggest liability.

Hillary 08

The media should be fair. Look into Cindy McSame's past, drug addictions, source of income etc... Notice how she is trying to keep out of the limelight now that she thinks there will be more scrutiny. If the media is more fair and look deeper, they would be able to come out with substantive evidence of many issues related to the above. Sure you can attack anyone else, but leave Cindy alone???

Michelle Obama is no Bill Clinton. She has never attacked Hillary.

HYPOCRACY 08..you're an idiot so enjoy your candidate's last month in this race.

OBAMA 08'/ 12'

All spouses that have chosen to insert themselves into politics are fair game. That means ANYONE (& this includes candidates' kids) who chooses to stump for a particular candidate is offering themselves up to be a target. That said, malicious lies & half-truths should be kept to the kindergarten playground. Only truthful, honest, & provable commentary should be fair game with regard to candidates' spouses. If you can't back it up with facts, don't say it!

They are not off limits, but they should be. Even formal President Clinton. The reason for elections is to choose the best candidate (not the spouse) to be president. It should be about the issues, not pettiness.

If Bill was fair game in S.C., then Michelle is fair game in Tn.

Since she is his most important adviser, you bet what she says counts! You can't put her out there "speaking' for the campaign, and then complain when what she says is used against you.

Oh, I'm sorry, it must be because she is black. We're not to criticize anyone who happens to be African American because that obviously means we're racist. Now, if she were white, she would obviously be fair game.

Another question to ask is "Is a candidates husband and daughter off limits?"

The media has taught us that the answer is NO.

Michele Obama is a racist and always plays the "victim". It should therefore make a lot of difference as she would be very influential on Barack.

If Michele Obama wants to stay home and bake cookies then she shouldn't be fair game in the media. If she wants to be on the campaign trail and give her opinions, then she should expect to take the heat.

Obama's arrogance never ceases to amaze me. He sends his wife out stumping for him and then becomes indignant when the people disagree with her comments. The people, mind you, he claims haven't are in desperate need of a voice.

I guess Obama only wants to give a voice to those who agree with his (or his wife's) point of view.

Hmm...that's change?

PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama's Wife is the most militant awful person I have heard speak in public!

She has said some VERY HATEFUL things!

It will come back to her and it is one of the reasons BO isn't a viable candidate.

That he would ask to leave her out shows just how UN aware he is!

Dont talk about wife or my pastor or my past alliances. Oh plz.

it would be nice if spouses were off limits but anything goes in blood money and politis. Time to step your game up Obama. The second half has began.

No they are not, especially when they are as outspoken, and obnoxious and arrogant as Michelle Obama! Children however are certainly off limits. Sen. Obama will lose because of his arrogance, and she certainly will help him.

Go McCain!

No, I don't think spouses or anyone should be off limits if they're out campaigning on behalf of a candidate. But a double standard is already in place; Chelsea Clinton has been campaigning vigorously on behalf of Sen. Clinton and she's, apparently, off limits. Regardless of all this, let the controversies be about the issues and not sound-bites.

Please don't worry about Ms. Obama. The Obama-biased news media will no doubt protect and praise her the same way that have her husband. I do take issue with their going so far as having asked once if she could be another Jaciie Kennedy. In fact, that reminds me of the Benson/Quale debate remark with a slight change. "I knew Jackie Kennedy; Jackie Kennedy was a friend of mine. You, Madam, are.....etc. "

Obama stood up for his wife which is admirable; the tape purposely distorts the tape so that "really" is almost impossible to hear.

I am sure you are proud of your daughters, Jack, but I bet there are times when you are "really" proud of them.

Unfortunately, perhaps, Obama has more integrity than to go after McCain's wife just like he did not dig up the dirt in Hillart. Hopefully voters who are sick of the politics of smear and swiftboating will see through this.

To all of you stop it.

The man is standing up for his lady, something i would expect from every guy for one thing does not exclude the other.

If he didn`t he would not be much of a man nor a husband.

I have your back Obama:)

Michelle sure is!!!!

Of course she is fair game, she may be in the White House and may be a big influence on all decisions. Now is as good a time as later so she needs to get use to it. The only ones who should be left out are the kids.

Nice point, JR. But I'm afraid the GOP will never learn. They know that they can't win this election on the issues, so they resort to their usual spin tactics. And they've got a surprise coming this fall.

The American people won't fall for it. In fact, this kind of dirty playing will HURT McCain. Even if some of Hillary's supporters are dim-witted enough to defect to McCain, his chances are still close to 0. Bye-bye, GOP!

Obama '08

Candidates spouses are only off limits if they keep their mouths shut. Mrs. Obama has opened her mouth plenty as evidenced by the number of times she has shoved her foot into it.

She's fair game because of the stupid things she has said.

With Obama it seems as if everything about him is off limits. When are you to going to make public her thesis? She is no better then any other spouse, and worse then others.

If Chelsea is off limits, then Michelle is off limits. It's as simple as that....fair is fair....the woman explained what she meant....for the first time in her adult life she is proud to see so many people involved in the political process. Get the facts and stop the stupidity.
Obama '08

Chelsea was asked to comment about her fathers past behaviour by Obama supporters…

NOW Michelle Obama is getting some of it back….

With Obama it seems as if everything about him is off limits. When are you to going to make public her thesis? She is no better then any other spouse, and worse then others.

People who target family and friends of candidates for office or any primary person involved in public debate, as a way of getting at the candidate/primary person are like mobsters who hurt you by hurting your family. THEY ARE JUST THE LOWEST OF LOW LIFE and this is going to backfire on the Republicans of Tennessee. Not even Republicans nationally will stand for it! Will Mr. McCain?

OBAMA WILL OVERCOME THIS TOO!

gROW UP! lOOK AT THE ATTACKS ON BOTH HILLARY, BILL AND CHELSEA. sINCE WHEN IS mICHELLE OFF LIMITS WHEN SHE CAME OUT SWINGING!. CAN'T RUN WITH THE BIG DOGS, STAY OFF THE PORCH! KNOWING WHAT I KNOW, BEFORE THIS THING IS OVER, WIN OR NO, MICHELLE WILL WISH SHE HAD NEVER EVEN HEARD OF OBAMA'S RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT. I FEEL ALMOST SORRY FOR HER.

The only thing I care about as a voter is the issues. So to answer your questions, Wolf, yes.

They are not for Hillary or McCain and they shouldn't be for Obama. I Bill and Cindy are fair game Michelle should be too. Bill has really been a target.

Off limits? You're kidding right, Wolf? Hell freezes over before spouses of candidates are off limits!

If Bill Clinton is not off limits then Michelle Obama is not off limits either!! She has put herself in this situation by some of her own comments. Stop whining Barack - there is no such thing as fairness in politics.

the media sets no limits for itself, so why should they consider it now? and Mrs. Obama sets no limits for herself either–for example, her comparison to her "housekeeping" as compared to senator clinton's was completely uncalled for. if she can dish it, she needs to also take it.

Well, CNN you have the answer.
It was CNN that was following every move of Chelsea Clinton.
It was CNN that was after Bill Clinton.
Why it should be different to Obama family?

Why Michelle Obama is off limits.
If she wants to be a First Lady she should be prepared to answer to American people

THE SPOUSES SHOULD GET BACK, WHAT THEY THEMSELVES

DISH OUT.

No, plan and simple. I think someones spouse doesn't effect how they do their job. If we counted spouses in job interviews, I would be okay with putting the canidates spouses out for review. But since we don't we shouldn't count theirs for this job interview. After all it isn't the spouse that will have the power of the pen.

Kevin (Atlanta, GA.)

Not only is it a childish, immature attack, but also distorted from the context. She is quoted as saying, "the first time in my adult lifetime, I’m REALLY proud of my country". In other words, she is proud of her country, but now she's EXTREMELY proud.

If I were Mrs. Obama, I'd sue for libel and defamation of character against those folks taking it out of context to say something other than what was said.

If they are out there campaigning for their husbands and wives then they are fair game. Michelle Obama is no different then the scrutiny Cindy McCain and Bill Clinton got. Obama himself criticized Bill Clinton which Hillary had the integrity to not to do to Michelle or Cindy McCain. Michelle has critcized Sen. Clinton and I think her quote was "How can you run the White House if you can't take care of your own house". Michelle Obama is very outspoken and it came back to bite her end of story.

If the spouse is actively campaigning for the candidate, then their comments are fair game. I do not believe the spouses need to be unfairly under attack, but when they are on the stump and campaigning, their comments should be subject to scrutiny. If the spouse does not want to have their comments to come under scrutiny then they should be quiet in public. You can't and shouldn't have it both ways.

I believe she is fair game too!!! Look at what they did to Bill Clinton. Obama grow up!! The truth will come out about you. I have seen the future and what you are going to do!!

Democrats watch out for people who say that they will vote for McCain if Hillary isn't the nominee. A lot of them were Republicans from the start trying to help Bush Jr out in the general election. True Hillary Supporters don't fall for it!!!!!! Vote Democrat!!!! We can't afford 4 more years of Bush!!!!!

No it's not right and it's time for a CHANGE! Their wife/husband's arn't running for president afterall.

Camp Obama had no prob talking about Clinton....President Clinton...and making the false accusations of racism, campaigning against two, etc. etc. etc. – so what is the difference??? Ah, it is the cry babys wife – TS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You get what you reap or is that something that Trinity doesn't teach?

IF THE SPOUSE IS INVOLVED IN ANY POLITICAL ATTACKS,

AS BILL HAS, THEY GET ATTACKED BACK.

IF THE SPOUSE IS ONLY INVOLVED IN MORAL & PHILOSOPHICAL

SUPPORT, THEN THEY SHOULD BE LEFT ALONE AS MUCH

AS POSSIBLE. BUT WE ALL KNOW THAT WILL NEVER HAPPEN.

Everything is fair game. I'm thankful you were the first, but I hope you aren't the last to make sure that every candidate (and candidate's family) is equitably treated. If you want to lay off Michelle Obama, stop the questioning of Cindy McCain or Bill Clinton and let them hang out on the peripheral.

He wants to be president but doesn't want anyone to pick on his wife.

Better toughen up Obama if you think you have any chance of beating McCain with that attitude.

Any time that a spouse works to campaign for their husband/wife then they are subject to scrutiny however a spouse should not be the focus of campagn ads, no more than any supporter should be.

The republican party should be very cautious about using such tactics, as there are issues that I know Senator McCain and his wife would not like to bring up.

This type of campaigning is exactly what we need to get away from. If you have to talk about a candidates spouse, then you probably don't have much to say about your own plans and policies.

THEY'RE NOT OFF LIMITS WHEN THEY OPEN THEIR TRAPS LIKE MICHELLE DID.

Cry baby. Barry you were one of the first to put Bills name in everything you could. I think that's a good thing but you were implying it wasn't so stop whinning cause if the media have their way you'll be the nominee. F y i when you are I'll vote gop for the 1st time in my 50 years. Barry I just don't think you are presidential material.

Wolf, Wolf, Wolf, be careful you bias is showing.. AGAIN!

No one is scrutinizing Michelle's tax records or her work records they are ATTACKING HER.

in 1992 Ms. clinton became an "issue' as you put it when she made her infamous cookie comment HOWEVER it was not run as an attack ad during the primary, the MSM made it an issue NOT the candidates or the parties. This attack on Ms. Obama is unprecedented, not because the MSM talks about it but because it is being used in attack ads a SIGNIFICANT difference even if you media types think you are as important as our leaders.

This is idiotic. Michelle Obama didn't say she had "never" been proud before, only that in this case she is MORE proud.

Get with the program, people!

He already can't take the heat.

its fair game if the attacks ARE FAIR!!!!!!

THEY KNOW FULL WELL THEY ARE TAKING MICHELLE'S WORDS OUT OF CONTEXT!!!

IF THEY WANT TO START A WAR ON WIVES, I DON'T THINK MCCAIN WANTS CINDY'S DRUG PROBLEM IN THE LIME LIGHT!!

SO STAY ON THE ISSUES AND BE FAIR!!!

DEMOCRATS IN 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, they are fair game. Historically, if the spouse is involved in the campaign they are subject to criticism and attack. Obama should keep his mouth shut. Unless, of course, he wants special treatment.

Part 2.

Spouses have traditionally been off-limits until they throw a hat or comment into the ring.

It may not be right, but that's what happens when you throw you hat in the ring for the presidency. The GOP & media did a real number on Hillary, Bill and Teresa. They also went after Chelsea for the Lewinsky scandal. Obama should have known better especially with Michele out there at speaking engagements. She's either fair game or needs to stay home & out of the spotlight.

If you read the blogs, Obama supporters are destroying Cindy McCain with her past. So I guess what's good for the goose is good for the gander.

While spouses (including Hillary's wife, Bill) would seem to be easy and fair game in an election, let's not go there. These elections are supposed to be about the candidate, and what he or she can do for the country. Attacking a spouse is a cheap shot, and doesn't have a whole bunch of relevance to the issues at hand (unless the spouse is trying to create national policy or state political positions...)

Depends. If you're talking about distorting the facts, then you guys should be doing your job and pointing out the distortions. You failed to do so on Reverend Wright. What will you do on the "wife" issue?

Heck no. Given that spouses have influence on each other, I would say they all should be under great scrutiny.

SPOUCES ARE FAIR GAME, BUT PARTIES GO AFTER THEM TO THERE OWN PERAL. NOTE HOW MANY SEATS ARE LOST IN TN BY THE REPUBLICAN PARTIES. IT WONT BE BECAUSE OF WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT MICHELLE, BUT IT WILL BE BECAUES OF WHAT THEY NEGLECT TO SAY ABOUT HOW GOOD THEY ARE. PEOPLE CANT FILL UP THERE TANKS WITH JOKES ABOUT MICHELLE. THEY WILL LOOK AROUND AND SAY, I DONT LIKE MICHELLE BUT WHAT EVER SHE SAID HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH HOW I VOTE.

Obama wants to be president and is already whining about people picking on his wife?

Hillary is way tougher than this guy. McCain is going to eat him alive.

they are not running for office,but the baggage of mccains wife appears to be more damaging,so republicans in tn.,had better lay off our next first lady,unless they want to bring attention to mrs.mccain.but,what do they know ?they are so out of touch ,it's unbelievable the damage bush has caused his party.

No, they're not off limits. Michelle just happened to open her mouth & insert her foot.

They should be. If the GOP is going to go after Michelle Obama then Cindy McSame's past missteps should not go un noticed and commented upon.

Mr. Blitzer,
Spouses are not off limits when they involve themselves in campaigns, either rhetorically or financially.

Anything that a candidate's wife says, as part of the campaign, is fair game. Michelle's comments made while campaigning can be used. If they were trying to use something that wasn't part of the campaign, that would be different. The same would hold true about anything Cindy McCain said while campaigning for her husband or Bill Clinton said while campaigning for his wife.

Oh its good enough to rdicule Mr Clinton a man who gave his all for his country but no dont attack Mrs Obama. Isnt she the peprson who said for the first time in my adult life I am proud of america, Not the type of person I would want to be close to the President of my country. next thing the Obama camp will say is that everyone is attacking Mrs Obama becasue of race. Come on if you cant take the heat get out of the hot spots.

Once again Sen. Obama is saying one thing and doing another. No one can attack his wife but yet he can continue to attack former President Clinton and attribute his polices and ideas to Sen. Clinton merely on the basis of marriage. Sen. Obama needs to realize that he cannot win anyone's trust by saying one thing and doing another. To me that constitues politics as usual. After all, she is campaigning for her husband.

No, once they are on the campaign trail then it's fair game but if the GOP attacks Michelle Obama then attacking Cindy Mc Cain is fair game also ......

so get ready for the SPOUSE WAR!!!!!!! ... LOL

If she can't stand the heat get out of the kithen.

Hello Pot... This is Kettle!

The hypocracy that is Obama continues...

Wolf, please. Since when?

John Kerry isn't President because America could not see his wife as our First Lady.

Life isn't fair and neither are elections. Stop whining and playing the victim.

The fact that "everybody else always does it" never worked with my parents, and justifies nothing. Kudos to Obama for standing up to it.