May 21, 2008
Posted: 03:30 PM ET

From
Carter says a joint Obama-Clinton ticket is unlikely.
Carter says a joint Obama-Clinton ticket is unlikely.

(CNN) — Hillary Clinton would accept the No. 2 spot on the Democratic ticket, but it's highly unlikely Barack Obama will offer it to her should he be the party's nominee, former President Jimmy Carter said Tuesday.

Speaking during a question and answer session at an event in Houston Tuesday night, Carter said, in his view, it's not impossible the two could pair up for the general election. But the former president said Obama will most likely search for a different vice presidential candidate.

"I think it would be highly unlikely for Obama to ask her to take it," Carter said. "Because I don't see how it would help his ticket. I think he needs somebody like a [former Georgia Sen.] Sam Nunn, but I won't name others.”

"But I think if he asked her, she would take it," Carter added.

The former president also reiterated that he does not have direct contact with either campaign and is not privy to the VP deliberations.

Carter also said a unity ticket would likely help the party come together after the prolonged and at times divisive primary race. But he stopped short of saying such a ticket would be the strongest Democrats could field

"That would be the ticket the republicans would favor I think," he said.

Carter, a Democratic superdelegate, has yet to formally endorse a candidate, but he has strongly hinted he is in favor of Obama.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Scott ATL   May 21st, 2008 11:52 am ET

GOOOOOD! I wish I could just make this font bigger…

Darth Vadik, CA   May 21st, 2008 11:52 am ET

WE DON'T WANT HILLARY AS VP EITHER. SHE CAN TAKE HERSELF AND HER SUPPORTERS AND HER BALL AND GO VOTE FOR McCAIN.

Randy M   May 21st, 2008 11:53 am ET

This is about the only time in my life I could agree with Jimmy. Senator Obama, just say NO to Hillary. I'm a Republican who will vote for you, UNLESS she's on the ticket.

Darth Vadik, CA   May 21st, 2008 11:53 am ET

THIS WRETCHED WOMAN HAS ALWAYS DONE THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT SHE HAS SAID, DONT TRUST HER, DONT WANT HER.

Pete   May 21st, 2008 11:54 am ET

The voice of reason. I think we all tried to give Hillary a chance, but she is simply to divisive. First it was subtle racism, now she's throwing out subtle sexism accusations.

Obama has shown he's "tough" enough on his own - he beat Hillary after all. He easily humiliates McCain and Bush daily. He needs to pick someone that can deliver a rust-belt state: McCaskill, Rendell, or Strickland.

Ted From Edmonton   May 21st, 2008 11:54 am ET

Who cares what this idiot thinks.

Sanity '08   May 21st, 2008 11:56 am ET

Carter hasn't announced who he's supporting yet because he's trying to decide who will make a worse president than him — Hillary or Barack — thus saving his legacy in the history books from being the worst president in U.S. history.

Xango 4   May 21st, 2008 11:56 am ET

he is right, why would Senator Obama bring baggage into his presidency……….
she is divisive, has attacked him over and over again worse than McBush, and GOP_ she is racist
worse of all she is a pathological liar.. liar liar

no more clintons,
to bring her in, is to go against all he stands for, he is for change she is not change
she is the past.. she carries bagagge and she can do better in the senate…

Robert in Toronto,ON   May 21st, 2008 11:56 am ET

No joint ticket! Hillary Clinton has proven time and time again that she is beyond reasoning. If she truly had wanted to unify the party, she would have conceeded and telling her loyal supporters to vote Democrat instead of inciting a riot within the party because she's not winning.

What does it tell you when more Clinton supporters than Obama supporters would support the other candidate? It's a reflection on their leaders. Those who care about change, and those who care about power and themselves.

Quinn   May 21st, 2008 11:56 am ET

Who cares what Carter thinks! He was one of the worst president's in history, as are his decision making skills.

He should stick with habitat for humanity and keep his political nose out of our business.

MD   May 21st, 2008 11:56 am ET

Carter doesn't have direct contact with any of the campaigns. His contacts are strictly with middle-eastern terrorist organizations and local anti-Israel groups.

Sweetie   May 21st, 2008 11:57 am ET

With all due respect to President Carter, I have to say that an Obama-Clinton ticket would be a good thing.

Hillary Clinton has a strong base and she will make history by becoming the first woman vice-president. Vice-presidents enjoy most of the same perks as Presidents do- and they can be very influential.

Connie White   May 21st, 2008 11:57 am ET

My comment is that if Hillary is not offered the position of Vice President I will not vote for Obama. I will write in Hillary. I set out to vote for Hillary and that's what I'm going to do. I think alot of people share my same views.

carolflowery   May 21st, 2008 11:57 am ET

Who's to blame for our high gas prices? The oil companies? The Saudis? OPEC? The answer, unfortunately, is closer to home: The "No-We-Can't" Left in Congress.

Last Thursday, with oil at $124 a barrel, liberals on the Senate Appropriations committee voted to block environmentally sound development of oil shale in Colorado.

According to the Investors Business Daily there are an estimated 1 trillion barrels of oil trapped in shale in the U.S. and Canada. Retrieving just a tenth of it would quadruple our current oil reserves.

But the "No-We-Can't" Left in Congress — as they're prone to do — said no, and Americans will pay the price. Colorado Senator Wayne Allard (R) put it best when he said: "If we are really serious about ..

Our energy and environment challenges are real. But America has the technological know-how and the entrepreneurial spirit to overcome them. And, as I pointed out last week, Americans overwhelmingly support more domestic production of energy to help ease gas prices.

We — not the Saudis or the oil companies — control our energy future. We just need the political will to do so.

High energy prices aren't theoretical, they have real consequences for real people. The answer, to paraphrase Ronald Reagan, isn't easy, but it's simple — so simple it could fit on a bumper sticker:

Drill Here
Drill Now
Pay Less

Realistic   May 21st, 2008 11:57 am ET

Mr. Carter please go back to Georgia and your peanuts. I don't want Hilary on the losing ticket anyway. It won't matter who Obama wants as his VP he will never win the General Election. Believe me!

Democrat for Hillary or McCain   May 21st, 2008 11:57 am ET

Why doesn't this guy just shut up? He was the worst President we ever had besides the current Bush idiot.

Or maybe he could go preach to Hamas. Maybe they'll listen to him.

patrick b   May 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

Obama should make the decision according to his own feeling. I've even seen Obama supporters who wouldn't vote for him if she was on the ticket!

the decision needs to be free of the influence of people like that.

bonita   May 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

He should shut up cos he is a stupid ignorant idiot. Carter should stop meddling in other peoples affaris make peace with God and get ready to give up the ghost.

john williams san diego, ca.   May 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

Jimmy….go back to your buddies in Lebanon…Quit bothering our America with your egotistical meandering muses. The worst ex-president EVER.

Ken   May 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

I cannot imagine why in the world that Carter would endorse Barack Hussein instead of Hillary Clinton? Maybe he too is one of the "Blind" people that are following the "Pied Piper". It is a shame!

We need Hillary Clinton to be the nominee instead of Barack Hussein, for she has the talents, skills, knowledge and experience, and Barack Hussein does not!

James, SC   May 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

Once again, wisdom at its finest.

Allan   May 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

Amy Carter.
Caroline Kennedy.
Julie Nixon Eisenhower.

All of them grew up in the White House.

They all support Barack Obama.

Tired of W, OH   May 21st, 2008 11:59 am ET

Hey, before y'all go callin' Kentucky voters a bunch of racists, consider this: Obama is only half black. That means that Kentucky voters are only half racist! YEEEE-HAWWW!

Seriously, go look at the county-by-county results for Kentucky and pay attention to the margin of victory by Clinton in each of the counties. As you get towards the back-woods counties in the eastern part of the state, Clinton wins by 80% or more. As you get towards the more industrialized parts of the state (like Louisville) the race is much tighter. This is not due to a large African American population. This is due to an educational gap. People in larger cities follow the news much closer than those in rural areas. They are exposed to more racially diverse conditions and are much less prejudiced. I'm not saying that rural voters are dumber. They're just more ignorant to the world around them. And ignorance breeds prejudice. Those are just the facts.

Ready for Change   May 21st, 2008 11:59 am ET

Whatever Hillary wants to do, I'm going to do. If she wants on the ticket, then I will vote for the ticket. Otherwise, this woman will be waiting for 2012 to vote for a Democrat.

if not Hill   May 21st, 2008 11:59 am ET

Jim Webb

Tammy - KCMO   May 21st, 2008 11:59 am ET

There are much better choices for VP that Obama could make than Clinton that would do a better job of uniting the party.
I for one, can not see myself voting for Clinton in any capacity. She has done to much to divide the party. Also, I don't think the Clintons would be satisfied in taking a backseat to Obama and would be overstepping their bounds on a daily basis. If Bill wasn't with Hillary she'd have a better chance. However, if she didn't have Bill with her she probably wouldn't have gotten this far to begin with.
When the Democratic convention takes place I still have visions of them pulling the Clinton's off the floor in straight jackets. I don't think either of them imagined that the nomination wouldn't be handed to them on a silver platter. In all reality at one time it probably could have but between the lies, the party divisiveness, Bill's playboy antics, stealing of the silverware and dishes, whitewater (?) and more I just can't see a reason to put them back in that position. Make no mistake, it would be a package deal with Hill & Bill. With everything that has gone on the past 8 years why bring back old issues and problems?
My view when I voted was anyone but the Clintons and I haven't changed my mind.
Obama has fresh views and thinks logically. This is something we haven't seen in a long time. He has my vote. I just hope he uses that logical thinking and chooses a less devisive running mate.

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

I guess this means that we can all look forward to Obama/Clinton 08.

After all, Jimmy Carter has been wrong about everything else! :)

Brian Knoxville, TN   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

To every super delegate of the Democratic Party,

Please think long and hard about the simple choice you now have to make:
1) Choose to endorse Hillary Clinton as the Party’s nominee and watch her become the first woman to be elected President of the United States.

or

2) Choose to endorse Barack Obama and watch the first African American nominee of the Democratic Party lose in the general election.

Hillary Clinton will win against John McCain in the states that the Democratic Party needs to win in order to reach 270 electoral votes in the general election.

Obama won’t.

It’s that simple.

Hillary Clinton has been the best candidate in this long primary election, is by far more competent to run against the Republicans in the general election, and is infinitely more qualified to be President of the United States than is Barack Obama.

Endorsing Barack Obama, a relatively unknown candidate with a thin resume who has lost nearly every large state and swing state to Hillary Clinton in the primaries by large margins, is a huge gamble at best.

Please don’t gamble with our futures.

HILLARY CLINTON ’08

Tony   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Saw this in this morning's paper and on CNN's website!

"Should Clinton reject racists?
David Gergen says Sen. Hillary Clinton should tell racists that she doesn't want their vote."

Perhpas Obama should be the one to do so!

Deb   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

So, Jimmy Carter and Hillary have had a conversation about whether she would accept a VP proposal from Obama???? Why do you people continue to report "Non-News" from people who don't have a clue?????????????

Alice   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

I can only hope Carter is right about the unlikelihood Obama will choose Hillary as a running mate. He would be foolish to soil the WH premises with the likes of Bill Clinton who will certainly roam the halls and run his narcissistic mouth.. America can offer better, and deserves as much.

God Bless America   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

The "Right Wing" is comming on to the "Right Side"!!!!!!

*****OBAMA …….CROSSING PARTY LINES FOR UNITY!!!!!!!******

THIS IS A GREAT MAN!!!!!!!

Democrats UNITE!   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Democrats need to unite under one man! Barack Obama!

He is 70 shy of the nomination, there's only one nominee!!!

Michael   May 21st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Thank God.

Jeanne   May 21st, 2008 12:01 pm ET

I don't think Clinton would help with Obama's message for change but it might help unite the party. I would rather he choose someone else but you never know how things will turn out in politics.

TonyNJ   May 21st, 2008 12:01 pm ET

I must agree, a Clinton & Obama ticket is highly unlikely. We are with you Hillary, through thick or thin, storm or sunshine, breeze or gail force winds, we are with you kid!

gary   May 21st, 2008 12:01 pm ET

I don't want her involved in any way nor her hard core women supporters who have as their only agenda to ruin the parties chances for the sake of having a woman as president . You cannot trust her,she is a liar,is too decientful, and shady to allow her to get her hands in anything a vice president. You do not have to go away mad Hillary just go away…..

Proud1of 26% in WV   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I'm afraid that Hillary is going to cause so much problem between now and the convention that the damage will be irreversable.James Carville made the remark this am that they would come out of the convention unified.They need to unify before that.Hillary is demanding that Flordia and Michigan either be counted as was voted in the bogus primaries or have new primaries. She also is using the # 2210 as the nomination #.She don't sound like someone willing to unite any too soon.

MD   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

The worse nightmare for Democrats is a joint Obama-Clinton ticket. After all the cheap and nasty trash Hillary piled on Obama, she deserved to be shunned by the Establishment, not offered the VP spot. She is vile, selfish, conceited, and politically challenged. If she had one iota of sense, she would not have run those attack ads. She practically slammed the door on herself.

Even now, she is stubbornly hanging on, just to make more money thru donations. During every one of "victory" speeches, she begs for money. That's Clintons for you, in a nutshell. They are all about money.

David, Silver Spring, MD   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I wouldn't want her on the ticket with Obama. She's basically said he's unqualified, is elitist, and "as far as I know" may be a muslim. Plus, she's run a horrendous campaign, wasting all kinds of money.

She may be able to hold her whiskey, but I don't think she should hold high office.

The Clear Thinking Independent   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Are all former Presidents Superdelegates?

If so, are there any conflict of interest rules?

AtlantaDan   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

This is the first election I have sent money to any campaign and I am happy to say I support Hillary. The Obama camp better think long and hard on how to win over the Hillary supporters. I can tell you it makes me sick everytime I see a post from an Obama supporter saying they do not need our vote. I may cast my vote for McCain- this will be the first time I have ever voted for a republican. The ONLY way I will vote Democrat is if he ask Hillary to run with him. NOW that is a ticket that would make it to the White House…. If not… Welcome President McCain

Real Change   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Here's an idea Mr. President. If your prepared to name Obama as the winner already why don't you cast your superdelegate vote and help END THE DOGGONE THING!!!!!

Bushwhacked in Eugene, OR   May 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

There are better ways to unify the party. Can anyone really see HIllary accepting a position with basically no power? She'd have more power to actually do something in her Senate seat than as a VP. In this country, a VP [with the exception of the current occupant] is not a CO-president. It's totally up to the president how large a role a VP plays, and I really can't see Obama giving much power to the Billary machine.

For the naysayers about experience — if you'll check the facts and consider only experience as an elected official, Sen. Obama actually has more than Sen. Clinton. Experience as a first lady doesn't quite cut it.

I once thought this would be a dream ticket — but Hillary's own actions have changed my mind on that one!

Obama v McCain   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

i agree the dual ticket would certainly grant us the presidency.. but if he chooses her not only will be going against the type of political players he is running against, but he will be spending the whole General campaign fighting off her baggage and more specifically the baggage that has come from her!.. I can hear it now.. Clinton: Obama is the right man for the job.. ready on day one!(snicker) McCain: yeah well.. you didnt think so back in the Primaries.. in fact you thought that I was better qualified than him!..

not good.

HH   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

As an Obama supporter he should ask her. The ticket would be unbeatable. As we know women vote more than men, and she would bring a majority of them.

Obama/Clinton 08/12

Petra   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

I agree with you Mr. Ex. President. A Clinton VP spot won't help OBAMA's chances in the fall, but will unite democrats.

So what do we do?

Every Wilson   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

I think it would be lunacy for Barack Obama to add Hillary Clinton in the V.P. Spot! She caaries to much baggage for the republicans to target and make an issue over from the Clinton years in the white house. Also, I would not trust her and Bill Clinton who played the race card with African Americans and White Americans to polarize and inject race and now sexism into the debate on who the eventual presidential nominee would be. She is blind or oblivious to her and Bills racial ephitets which caused and extraordinary focus on race. Then she says Barack Obama suffered no backlash, the only real issue is sexism! She wants the presidency so bad, I think Barack Obama would need a food taster, extra security, and his own aircrafte mechanics and inspecters to feel comfortable.

GoldenChica   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Hillary should be the one offering Obama the VP position.

Sue P / PA   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Barack Obama only has 62 more delegates to go to become the democratic nominee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

President Obama 08/09/10/11/12/13/14/15/16

TAHARI in CT 4 OBAMA   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

AMEN!

I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A REPUBLICAN ON THE TICKET WITH OBAMA!

Independant   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

If Obama dosn't at least ask Hillary Clinton to take the VP spot, how does he expect the party to unite and Hillary's supporters to back him.

BettiH, Indianapolis, IN.   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Obama should be able to pick his own VP. If it were me I certainly wouldn't pick Hillary. Bill would haunt the man in his own home.

SLO Bear   May 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Instead of the Clintons, who have really disgraced themselves, how about someone with some decency like Claire McGaskill or Bill Richardson?

Venus   May 21st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Sure the republicans would favor Hillary on Obama's ticket - they can't wait to go after her and Bill!

Thanks Mr. Carter - we don't want her on our ticket nor near the white house!

Go Bam!

JIM WHITTAKER   May 21st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

If Barack Obama caves and chooses Hillary Clinton as his
running mate, he's just lost the election. Period.

Half the country will NEVER vote for Hillary Clinton, no matter
what position she is on the ticket. The "Clinton Fatigue" is
a real and living thing, and it will never go away, no matter how
nice she tries to play.

proud army and navy mom   May 21st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

You are right pres. carter, but i think sen biden is a better choice

MoveOn   May 21st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

How does Jimmy do it? He was a terrible president, his appeasement during the Iran hostage affair only emboldened the radicals, who didn't free the hostages until a strong president - Regan - took office, yet Jimmy somehow stays in the limelight. He needs to retire and grow peanuts.

Joe Regis   May 21st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Hillary has stayed in the race for that
very purpose.

The V.P. slot.

She deserves it.

Chris, Middletown, CT   May 21st, 2008 12:04 pm ET

No way should Clinton be anywhere near the White House….

Nah!   May 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Barack and Hillary have completely different working styles. They are both very strong people. When you add Bill into the problem, I do not believe a team of these two (or three, depending upon how you look at it) would work. A VP is usually the person who promotes the president's agendas, travels on good will missions, and generally keeps pretty quiet. Neither Hillary or Barack could comfortably do that.

Who ever wins the nomination should look elsewhere, and put their opponent in these primaries in a role in their administration in which they can do very good things outside the Whitehouse…

Shelly Lee   May 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

I don't know what people say it is an unlikely matchup.
Obama cannot even win if he doesn't put her on the ticket…….
So, all I can say is 4 more years of McSame……..

Obama/Kennedy   May 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

I hope he does Mr. Carter she is an evil woman in the top of that Add Bill Clinton to that this will make the Obama admistration will be a disaster.

Yasriel   May 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

CNN Report this:
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democrat Barack Obama has opened an 8-point national lead on Republican John McCain as the U.S. presidential rivals turn their focus to a general election race, according to a Reuters/Zogby poll released on Wednesday.

Obama, who was tied with McCain in a hypothetical head-to-head matchup last month, moved to a 48 percent to 40 percent lead over the Arizona senator in May as he took command of his grueling Democratic presidential duel with rival Hillary Clinton

CT in CT   May 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

God help us!

HRC needs to quit the race and begin working for Obama with NO STRINGS ATTACHED if we are to believe she is not really trying to sabotage thi selection because she is not the nominee.

John in Iowa   May 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Who cares what this guy thinks?

R   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

this would be a strong unbeatable ticket for sure. I'm not sure if Obama would want this however

WE DON'T WANT BILLARY!   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

NEVER!

Mary   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

For me, the only way in the world I will ever vote for Barack is if HRC's name is on the ballot. Otherwise, I'm writing HRC's name in on the ballot. Chastise me all you want Obama fans, but that's the way it is. Obama's lack of experience and naiveté scare the hell out of me…

Bij- New York   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

I find it very selfish that ppl would make comments along the lines of "the only way i'd vote for obama is if clinton is on the tkt"…most of the ppl who won't vote for Barack will NEVER vote for a black man as president so pls stop pretending like Hillary on the tkt would convince you otherwise

REZ   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

He wont choose her, wont happen Billary!

Kuilor2k   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

I think Jon Stewart was on to something. A McCain - Clinton ticket. They are both centrists and have worked together before. I don't think I'd vote for Obama - Clinton (simply because the obama supporters have turned me off of Obama so bad that I do not want to be affiliated with them in any way.)

I would vote for a McCain - Clinton ticket though.

John   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Too bad…I know alot of people who won't vote Democratic unless Hillary is on the ticket. Good luck without her Obama. Picking Jim Webb would be a terrible choice and you can say goodbye to women when the GOP runs ads about his views on women in the military. All that equals another loss for the Democrats.

Andy - Wichita, KS   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

My money is on James Webb or Kathleen Sibelius, but I really don't care much as long as Hillary stays out of the White House.

MD   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

If Hillary supporters rather cut off their noses to spite their uneducated faces, then they are welcome to vote for McBush.

I just hope that when the country is totally bankrupt by 2012, they don't blame it on anybody but themselves.

FL Voter   May 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

FL didn't follow the rules and shouldn't be counted. Neither should Michigan where Obama's name wasn't even on the ballot (he followed the rules). I am a staunch Republican who supported Bush (who inherited Clinton's mistakes), but will be voting for Obama. It is time for change. An Obama/Clinton ticket is better than a McBush/McCheney one, ANYDAY!

RACIST & ANGRY BITTER WOMEN   May 21st, 2008 12:07 pm ET

WE DON'T WANT HER OR HER VOTERS! MAYBE THEY CAN GO LIVE ON A DESERTED ISLAND SOMEWHERE AND STAB EACH OTHER IN THE BACK?

Farrell, Houston, Tx   May 21st, 2008 12:07 pm ET

This country is in enough chaos without creating chaos in the White House by teaming Obama and Hillary.

Charles Lemay   May 21st, 2008 12:07 pm ET

There are many, many more CLINTON HATERS out there
than there are Hillary supporters.

Pat-WA   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Hillary would be a bad choice, she and Bill brought in racism and sexism - lets move forward!

To all those that wont vote for Obama once the other 64delegates/superdelegates are allocated - remember there are more that didnt vote during the primary that are waiting for him to be on the ballot in November - so its okay. And guess what many of the are white and this also includes those living in FL and MI whom was told their vote didn't count so dont come out!!!

Xango 4   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

CNN please report the news that matter, and the facts

By John Whitesides, Political Correspondent
Wed May 21, 7:17 AM ET

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democrat Barack Obama has opened an 8-point national lead on Republican John McCain as the U.S. presidential rivals turn their focus to a general election race, according to a Reuters/Zogby poll released on Wednesday.

To Atlanta DAn,_ your vote is your choice, you support Hillary that is your choice..
just remember: she voted for the war, she uses fear tactics from GOP , she quotes Karl Rove for a reason to continue in the fight,
and if you like most of AMericans care, remember,
she lies, lies lies

how is that you can live with a liar ..but not an African American president..
intersting…

carrie   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

I vote democratically, but I am an American before I am a democrat. I have a right to vote for whomever I want. I am sick of Obama supporters saying anyone who supports Hillary is a hilly billy. My vote in November will be a vote against Obama. TTFN DNC!

Rose - Baltimore, MD   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Any democrate casting their vote for Mcain is a fool because their candidate did not make it is a fool.

John   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

If you're like me and my mom and can't bring yourself to vote for Obama, either write in Hillary or vote Green Party candidate Cynthia McKinney. She's a pretty cool candidate in my opinion.

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Maybe Obama/Hagel would work. He'd be able to siphon off voters from McCain, and it would help bringing over Congressional Republicans…

KO   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

It doesn't matter. John McCain will likely be the next president anyway. Just watch. If Obama looses all of those swing states like he did to Clinton (WV, KY, PA, OH, MI, FL) then McCain will win. It's sad that this whole thing could come down to one thing: Trust. Obama, I think, is just too much of a question mark for people.

Crush Rush   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Not likely.

Debbie in NC   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

I think that he will offer her the position and she will accept it. I also think that the two of them together would eat McCain alive. But then I worry about this e-mail going around with a list of people that are no longer living because of the Clintons, wondering if it could be true and if Obama would be the next victim which would make Hillary the President.

CB   May 21st, 2008 12:08 pm ET

We have DEMOCRATS who say they won’t vote for OBAMA, but we have just as many REPUBLICANS. who say they will. Just something to think about for you CLINTON SUPPORTS who won’t support OBAMA.

It sounds like an EVEN TRADE TO ME, except the cross over REPUBLICANS is getting the better part of the deal. Just my 2 cents or 1.

You guys are going to look real funny with you nose cut off.

Now is the time to SHANK HANDS, KISS and make up to get ahead of the game.

Obama 08!

paul oregon   May 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

billary noway to put this mildy she is not honset we dont need
another 4 yrs. of gop.

Chris, Middletown, CT   May 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

(I will ask…but there will never be an answer) - for those who say Hillary or McCain - what positions do you support Hillary on….i.e. why are you voting for her? McCain and Clinton don't share similar positions on anything….so….my guess….you voted on gender…and want to send a (poor) message that you didn't get your way…again…try picking up a newspaper to see where the candidate stand on certain positions

Rose - Baltimore, MD   May 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Any democrate casting their vote for Mccain because their candidate did not make it is a fool.

Persio, NY   May 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Who asked this guy to come out of his hole under the rock? He is so irrelevant, and useless, but he knows that and that's why he's pushing himself into the spotlight by answering questions that he claims he doesn't know about. Carter you should go back into hiding.

joaquin   May 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

I disagree.

A obama-clinton ticket would help to make obama stronger against McBush.

Although I dislike Clinton; she is a cheater

Kim, PA   May 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Hey Gary….
here's my thoughts to you as a hardcore Hillary Supporter…..

WELCOME PRESIDENT MCCAIN if she is NOT ON THE TICKET…..

Andy   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

This is news how? Carter has no knowledge of either campaign, and if his presidency showed anything, he has little or now political know-how.

Brian   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

At what point does somebody tell Mr. Carter to shut up and simply reflect on his horrible presidency. What happened to retiring to the Peanut Farm.

Stephanie   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

What's most amazing to me in this race is that everyone has an opinion that is based on nothing but wishful thinking, conjecture and, perhaps, most sadly, ignorance and stupidity. What's more amazing to me is that the media continues to solicit opinions from anyone who cares to give one and then proceed to analyze these worthless utterances for hours. When some idiot seriously argues that HRC should reject race based votes, as has been suggested by one of CNN's "political analysts" last night, it is time to say enough is enough. This is especially true in light of the fact that by now, even the most ignorant "political analyst" should have caught on to the fact that the Obama campaign has built its entire strategy around race and race based votes,

Likewise, it is doubtful that HRC would even consider the No. 2 spot. Obama is going to get trounced in the Fall, in case this, too, is still not obvious to the media. Obama's strategy to gather the African American vote and then blackmail the party to make him the nominee is clearly not going to work in the Fall as there will be nobody to blackmail. HRC is clearly not dumb enough to become part of a ticket that is guaranteed to lose the election. No guys, she is running for 2012.

ann_american2004   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

I agree with AtlantaDan. I was on the fence for awhile, leaning more toward Obama. I still plan to vote for Obama, but have to remind myself daily that his supporters arent him. I shudder at how they treat fellow democrats. Obama will be losing a very large population of voters if he does not let Hillary's supporters be represented in this election. It is not like he is winning by a landslide. Her votes are very important and FL and Michigan WILL vote in the actual election, among her other states.

Rudy NYC   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

AtalntaDan,
Obama supporters are not saying things like that. That's Operation Chaos at work. LIkewise, there are "Hillary" supporters saying nasty things, too. Once again, Operation Chaos.

Linda from Prescott   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

My Word! Are we democrats losing our senses? First, I support Senator Obama, secondly at one time I supported Mrs. Clinton, however, I took exception to her methods and decided to go with Senator Obama.
Now let's see here, we are democrats, our goal is to reclaim the whitehouse. Traditionally speaking, when your favored candidate loses the nomination you vote for whoever has been determined to be our standard bearer, it becomses a vote to support your PARTY AND BELIEFS. Being spiteful and flipping over to the republican candidate shows a real sense of immaturity and a lack of belief in party ideals.
I will vote for THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE BE IT OBAMA or CLINTON, THAT'S HOW THE GAME IS PLAYED.
Personally, I think that Clinton is supporting this switcheroo idea as a petty "I told you so"…don't play. VOTE DEMOCRAT in NOVEMBER.

Mike Jones   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Hillary supporters can take their vote over to McCain. But in 2012 the Obama supporters will take their votes elsewhere, when she tries to run again. "Karma" as Earl Hickey would say.

JAY   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

That decision wont be made my Carter! I want to see some comments in reference to the new stance the Bush administration is taking towards Cuba by allowing Americans to send cell phones to Cuban relatives. I want to know how is McCain going to insist that no dialogue between the Castro regime is benefitting anyone. Also I think America needs to stop putting so much emphasis on trying to appease certain groups and have the same policy towards all racial groups that exist within the United States.

Obama/Kennedy   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

We the Obama supproters we do not want to hear the Name Clinton Ever again.

ellianna   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

By the time Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton get finished with their "prolonged attempt" to "HAVE EVERY VOTE COUNTED", there will be absolutely NO CHANCE FOR THE DEMOCRATS TO WIN IN THE FALL!! The latest tactic "sexism", is going to just add more fuel to the fire she has purposely set that burns hotter every day!! I will not be surprised to see her go all the way to the convention!! Irregardless of what the critics might say, I truly believe SHE IS SET ON A COURSE to completely tear the Democratic party apart!! The Clintons are narcissitic, petty, liars, cheaters, and corrupt politicians and individuals who are only interested in two people in this world, BILL AND HILLARY CLINTON!! So, I respectfully send a message to every Super Delegate that has not endorsed as yet!! PLEASE PLEASE, SUPERDELEGATES — ENDORSE BARACK OBAMA IMMEDIATELY, ASAP, IN THE COMING DAYS, so that he will have the numbers necessary to close this primary and get on with campaigning in the general!! WE NEED TO END THIS RACE!! IT IS GETTING UGLIER AND MORE DIFFICULT WITH EVERY DAY, DUE TO THE CLINTONS AND THEIR DETERMINATION TO TEAR THE PARTY APART!!

LET US SEE THE SUPER DELEGATES MAKE THEIR MOVE TO OBAMA IMMEDIATELY!!

Garth   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

I'm a strong Obama supporter and I'm starting to warm up to Hillary as VP, but I think it will be a hard sell to most Democrats. I also worry that Hillary as VP brings all the Clinton baggage along without the impact. But the Republicans have such a weak candidate, a one -two punch with Obama and Clinton might be the answer.

On the other hand, there are Obamacons that might not vote for the ticket because they despise the Clintons. The independents and cross-over Republicans, which I think there are many are a force not to be ignored.

I also believe that by offering the VP, she will SHUT UP about the evils of sexism etc. Maybe we would be lucky and she wouldn't take it because she is still expecting to be the Nominee.

Don't Vote   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

CNN,

If Hillary is not on the ticket we will not vote or we vote McCain. This is 100% true.

David, Newport OR   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

this is smart…many of the "non-Democratic" states where Obama lost to Clinton will not be won by the Democratic Party when it comes to the general election, regardless of who the nominee is. I'm sorry…given a choice between a white man and either a woman or a black man, some states will go with the white man everytime. This is not being said to be devisive…it is just a fact that too many people choose to deny. States like New York and California will go Democratic with either candidate. The addition of Clinton to an Obama ticket will not increase the likelihood of a fall win. The VP needs to help turn close states like Ohio, Penn, Michigan where solidifying the Democratic Party will still not be enough.

Bob   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Having Hillary on the ticket would do a disservice to Obama as well as Hillary. Hillary represents business as usual as supported by the exit polls in WV and KY. On the other hand there will be a number of blacks who will believe that Obama took them for granted, if he places Hillary on the ticket. When it comes to the race card, Hillary opened many wounds for African Americans. When she was putting down Barack ,she in subsequent was putting down all African Americans. Like it or not racism and sexism do and willplay a part in our politics because America does have some uneducated backward people, in all groups of people. The ism's are alive and well in America until the backward generations die off, then America will have to dill with their children.

Karen   May 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

You don't want her voters? You're an idiot. Then Obama loses. Democrats are too hateful to run this country.

David in Illinois   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

AtlantaDan
Voting because of the VP?

Isn't that worse than being a one issue voter?

Instead consider this, are better off than you were eight years ago?

Is the country better off than it was eight years ago?

Do you want more of the same for yourself, your nation, and your children?

This is bigger than one canidate or one party. This is about getting America back on the right track. Vote appropriately.

Wise White Guy   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

It is unlikely but with Clinton all but saying since that she is planning to stay in until the convention what is the alternative. She has said she is staying in until someone reaces the required number and she does not feel that a committment is enough. The superdelegates do not vote until the convention so she is threatening to go all the way to the floor. It is nice to think of her as VP becasue it would bring the party together enough to win the general but the reality is that she is so loaded with skeletons in her closet it would be a nighmare against the GOP. Obama is squeaky clean compared to all other politicians and it would be nice to keep it that way. If for no other reason Paul V Clinton is enough to not allow her on the ticket if possible. I mean how would it look for a VP to be endited on felony charges? Not to mention that Obama would never be able to sleep again with his life being the only thing in between Hillary and the job of President. I know i would not want my life in between her and something she wants because she puts herself above all else.

Terry, Dallas Texas   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I am getting tired of reading all the posts of people saying that if HRC is not the nominee they are voting McCain. To be honest ,if you are prepared to put up with 4 more years of a costly war, to continue to watch our standing as a world power crumble and to pay more and more to live while watching your salary stand still, please go ahead and do it. I really doubt you ever intended to vote for a Democrat anyway. Take your ball and go home. There are plenty of us to make up the difference.

CW   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Yes, Highly unlikely because SHE is to good for the VP spot. If anything, he should be begging her for VP because, there is NO WAY he will win without Hillary! The man doesn't have a clue on what to do on anything. Believe me, Hillary would be doing HIS job while he would be taking all the credit! No, if anything HE should be VP and Hillary for President, the only way the DEMS will beat John McCain in the fall! Wake up people……

R. Squibbs   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Strange. Another story linked on the CNN page has Carter saying that having Clinton as VP is key to Obama winning the White House.

I think it's a horrible idea. Clinton represents everything Obama has campaigned against: divisiveness, negativity, cynicism, dishonesty. She's exactly the sort of politician that Obama's supporters have shown that they don't want. And if she were on the ticket, all of the truckloads of baggage from her past that has so far gone unmentioned during the primary would suddenly become Obama's problem. Plus, if she were on the ticket, you'd have Bill skulking around the White House thinking HE should be president.

Hillary had her shot, she blew it by running a lousy campaign. She's a good senator, but keep her far, far away from Obama's ticket.

Gerry M   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Senator Obama would be well advised to chose a vice-presidential running mate who is more in line with his ‘new politics’ agenda than is Senator Clinton. Senator Obama has successfully marketed himself as an agent of change in the political atmosphere and behavior of what is accepted for political discourse today. If Senator Obama chose Senator Clinton as a running mate he would counter that argument because Senator Clinton chose to be an agent of non-change and a representative of the politics as known wing of the Democratic Party. A better choice for Senator Obama would be a southerner with strong foreign policy credentials or a well-known westerner who could chip into and take some of those ‘red’ states in the west.

Denver CO, 4 Obama   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

ATL Dan we do need to unite as a party to win in November. Camp Obama wants and needs Hillary's supporters to back him. But it makes me SICK to see Hillary's supporters say they would vote for McCain. Are the issues not a factor anymore? Hillary and McCain are polar opposites how can you vote for him? Simply because you don't like Obama and his supporters have ticked you off? This is way too important. We cannot doom ourselves to 4 more years of the same leadership, and don't give me that experience crap. He's been a senator as long as she has and being someone's spouse doesn't count! My wife can't do my job and I can't do hers! Can yours?

proud army and navy mom   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

to atlantadan:
you must have plenty of money to waste if you are still sending money to hillary's campaign.

if you vote for mccain, you are exactly the kind of voter that republican's attacts, dumb.

don't you care about our troops? you voted for bush, didn't you

Canadian EH!   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

No -she should not be on the ticket.. She has deliberately unfairly attacked Obama and this is evident based onthe poles…Now why in heavens name would he want a Jezebel as VP.. As strong a candidate she is I think she would try to take the spot light from him..No Thanks..

Kim, PA   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

oh… and don't be too alarmed by a Hillary Supporter voting for McCain….
see we were REPUBLICANS in the first place

Helene   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I hope Barack selects someone who is in sync with his message. That is not Clinton, that would be disastrous for his presidency.

Clinton is VP???   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Think about it, she can do anything for the power. Once she becomes VP, She might be really thinking how to topple Obama. I think Obama needs a reliable VP not someone who digs into their own yard.

Andy in San Diego   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Well, AtlantaDan, I guess we *do* get the leadership we deserve. If Hillary supporters vote for McCain, we'll get exactly what we deserve.

Jeff M.   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

AtlantaDan - You have to understand that the perceived slighting goes both ways. I'd like to believe that most Obama supporters can overlook many of the less-than-friendly comments Hillary supporters have made in past months, but nobody here is claiming to be anything close to perfect. We believe we can win this thing, and we would certainly like your help in delivering a democratic White House, but the decision of VP is Obama's alone, and a few events of the past months may be lingering in his mind (Her pouncing on the word "bitter", claiming at one point that McCain would be a better choice than Obama, any number of gaffes made by Bill this season).

AtlantaDan, explain it to me...   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

…you seem like a fairly rational person. Other than just being upset that you wasted money by backing the eventual loser, why on earth would you vote for McCain over Obama if you're a Democrat?

Obama and Clinton are much, much closer on policy issues regarding health care, foreign policy, taxes, civil rights, abortion, energy policy, everything than McCain is to either one of them. So if you believed in Hillary's policies enough to support her, why wouldn't you support the candidate whose viewpoints most closely mirror hers? I really don't get it….

It seems to me that most Hillary supporters say they won't vote for Obama because there's some strange notion that the DNC handed this election to Obama and that Obama somehow single-handedly disenfranchised Michigan and Florida. All I can say in response is that Obama got more votes and, under the primary rules of the DNC won far more delegates - so how did the DNC hand him anything? And as far as him disenfranchising Michigan and Florida, that was a decision made by the DNC and supported by all of the candidates at the time, including Hillary Clinton. I can guarantee you with 100% certainty that if she were in Obama's position and he were in hers she would reject out of hand Obama trying to claim that he was ahead in the popular vote, and she would be the first to claim that the DNC made its decision regarding Michigan and Florida and all of the candidates are simply bound to follow that decision…..not like Obama did this all himself

Abby   May 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I certainly don’t want a person who lies deliberately -whether its while telling a long anecdote about Bosnia or claiming she has the popular vote lead by counting a state without Obama on the ballot- to be anywhere near the ticket. The bible says ‘the TRUTH shall set you free’. No more lies! Also, one wants a vp to wishes them well not hope that something bad happens so she can take over ( just like she’s’ going now!). no no. no thank you.

Frances   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Carter is right but in all fairness Obama may need to at least ask Hillary to be on the ticket with him just as she would need to ask him if she somehow stole the nomination awat from him. I know Obama wouldn't want the Hillary baggage which means he would be keeping the old politics around but he may have no choice. Being a strong Obama supporter, I feel it's only fair. Even though Hillary is not being fair by giving Obama a hard time with her mean remarks, he should turn the other cheek and still do to her what's fair.

Miro   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

No thanks for Clinton. He need somebody else.

CLINTON 08!   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

What’s wrong with this picture?

Barack Obama is in Florida to raise money from voters whom he has worked hard to disenfranchise from the Democratic Party’s nomination process.

Barack Obama is shopping for a running mate before securing the Party’s nomination.

Frankly, not being one of the millions who have fallen in love with the idea of Barack Obama as President of the United States, I’ve never been able to see beyond his obvious flaws as a weak candidate with a thin resume and a serious touch of arrogance.

Barack Obama at the top of the ticket would spell defeat for the Democratic Party in the fall, and the failure of the Democratic Party as I’ve known it for nearly 4 decades will be complete.

Fortunately, if Obama should ever actually secure the nomination, Hillary Clinton will be there to lead the new Democratic Party in the wake of the disaster.

IT'S NOT TOO LATE…. HILLARY CLINTON '08!

God Bless America   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Let Hillary go home and lick her wounds. We DO NOT want her for VP. Let her and Geraldine Ferrato drink whiskey and shoot rabbits in the backyard of DEFEAT in good ol' West Virigina.

Don't Vote   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

CNN,

If Hillary is not on the ticket we will not vote or we vote McCain! Obama cannot beat McCain.

Patrick   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

AtlantaDan, where are your scruples? You'd vote for a war-mongering McCain instead of a democrat? I don't get the logic. I've heard other people say that. McCain will just keep us at war for another 8 years. Please reconsider your logic.

Andy   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

I don't get you Obama supporters… Hillary still commands 40-45% of the vote of democrats in the US, so saying you don't need her supporters votes is just plain inaccurate… so, calling all Hillary supporters racist or bitter isn't doing your preferred candidate any favors

faye, NV   May 21st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

I don't think Obama/Clinton would work, she stuck on old ways and ideas. I personally think she is to dirty and extremely power hunger to be VP.

She and Bill would destroy him by framing him in whatever they could. The Clintons are not to be trusted.

Giulia   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Clinton supporters…. Please, stop it. I am sick and tired of your comments. They are so hypocritical, malicious, mean, rough… I am so sorry but I start to trust that for Clinton vote people without education.

Really?   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Mr. Carter: please, build houses for the homeless; feed the starving; clothe the naked . . . but stay out of the Middle East and Democratic politics. Play to your strengths, my man!

Chris, Middletown, CT   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

I believe that anyone who supports Hillary through gail force winds….or other storm activity must of been hit in the head…and is not aware that she has taken multiple positions on the same subject - i.e. support for NAFTA….then not supporting NAFTA….and war in Iraq support to not supporting the war….to drivers licenses for illegal aliens…to (you get the picture….well…everyone except Hillary supporters that is)

Terry   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Obama should consider Hillary on the ticket, so that her supporters do not go out and vote for McCain. Unfortunately, the Dems have been so divided, but they need to become united. The race has been so close, it would only make sense to put them on the same ticket. It's not about pride or who comes out on top, it's about the unity of two very strong Democratic candidates. Let's put all of this bickering and long campaigning behind us. I'm not waiting for McCain and his prediction of winning the war in Iraq by 2013. Are you kidding me!? Dems '08!

Obama/Clinton '08
Clinton/Obama '08

Joe   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Hey Charles,there may be more Clinton haters out there than Clinton supporters but Hillary has received more votes in a primary year (close to 16 million) than ANY other 2nd place candidate in history. That says to me that there are many Clinton supporters still out there. Get over your jealously of the Clintons!

JAS in CT   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

It is a shame that AtlantaDan and others like him are willing to cross over and vote republican if Clinton is not on the ticket. Like President Carter, I don't think a joint ticket is likely for many reasons. However, I understand how AtlantaDan feels–if the roles were reversed, which would be the case if Clinton somehow manages reverse the superdelegate vote–I cannot envision voting for Clinton under any circumstance. I'm sure she would be a competent president, but we need new blood in the WH. Should HC get into office, that would mean that the presidency will have been held by only two families for at least 24 years. I cannot imagine that's what our Founding Fathers had in mind. Furthermore, I don't believe she could beet McCain–a true American Hero, vs. someone who has lied about being under sniper fire… I can see the commercial now. Game over. So we might as well get used to a McCain presidency, because if Obama cannot bring Clinton supporters back like AtlantaDan back into the fold, McCain will certainly win.

Celeste, ScaredofRepublicans   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Any American who loves their country, freedom, their jobs, a future, and would like for America to remain number 1 in the world BETTER NOT VOTE FOR MCCAIN.

Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face! Man, what has to happen in this country before dumb Americans like AtlantaDan puts someone in office that will move the country forward instead of driving us in the ground?

DEMOCRATS CANNOT LET ANOTHER REPUBLICAN INTO OFFICE OR OUR COUNTRY WILL BE DOOMED!

Prince   May 21st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

How can she( Hillary) be on a ticket of someone she has negatively criticized, time without number, and even said he's not capable which is all politics as usual from washington perspective. Well, I think she shouldn't be on the ticket, because we are moving in a different direction of changing the way this great country is perceived both inside and outside. We need a total overhaul change, we don't need Clinton and her baggages in the white house, even as a VP. We are smatter than all her schemings.

Beth   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Anyone who is thinking of casting their votes for McCain is welcome to do so. I make more than 100.000 annually, McCain would work much better for me in that respect. (Though I am all for Obama and voted for him already and will cast my vote for him come November). So for me it really doesn't matter whoever is the next president as far as my finances though I am worried about other things. But for people who are suffering economically to cast a vote for McCain is stupidity at its best truly. This election will be about common sense versus stupidity. Obama keeps saying American people are better and smarter than that but I don't know… We shall see in November. I am voting for Obama even though he will be taking away Bush's tax cuts I have been enjoying over the past years but I love my country and am more worried about her standing in 21st century's world than any finances. Think hard people.

not her please   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

No Clinton on the ticket–please!!! I know superdelegates don't read these posts but please put an end to this…you can do it!! do it soon. we have to move forward.

Carl, Atlanta   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Sam Nunn would be an excellent choice! Not only was he Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee for years, he has extensive foreign policy experience. Best, he was considered one of the most thoughtful and and trustworthy members of the Senate and was well respected by members of both parties.

Michael straight talk   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

I agree with President Carter, that a joint ticket is not likely, because of the same reason why Sen. John Edwards did not endorse Sen. Clinton. It will be commiting political suicide! There is no way to justify taking along a person who is runnig "old politics" and pro lobbyists!
Moreover:
Sen. Clinton was complaining about sexism or misogynistic trends in this election. She forgot that first she was not running as a woman, but as a candidate that happened to be a woman. Later on when things were no longer going her way then she played gender card, race card and victim card! She and Bill said to Sen. Obama: "if you cannot the heat, get out of the kitchen"! So why complain? Do the right thing! Don't throw trash at people, when you are not willing to take trash yourself. Follow the golden rule! Sorry, I forgot it is difficult to follow the rules when one is Clinton! Yet you aspire to be the Commander-in-Chief of a country built on rules? How would the military function, without rules? How would various state departments function without rules? Americans are you really serious that you want a leader again who disrespects rules, regulations and laws? This is prerequisite number ONE for executive job! How can one be a lawyer when one is against rules, regulations, law and order? If one cannot respect DNC rules that every Candidate accepted without protest before the primaries, how does one expect that person to respect the law of the land? Can someone tell me?

Chi4Obama   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

I am Pro-Obama. But that does not mean that I am anti Hillary. With this being said. I think it is truly unfortunate that MANY Hillary supporters will not back Obama WHEN he becomes our nominee. I dare not speculate as to why this would be the case….

As a result, I think putting Hillary as VP, may be the only viable way that Obama can capture a significan portion of her base in the General Election. There will obviously be a percentage of Democrats who "WILL NEVER' vote for Obama. But there is not much that he can do about that..However, having her serve on his ticket as VP would help to mend a lot of the "bitter" feelings within our party.

Democrats '08, '12, Forever….

laura   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Hillary supporters that vote McCain have no true respect for her or her stance on the issues. She admirably fought for her vision of American for nearly two years, a vision that couldn't be more removed from McCain's vision of the US and the world, and by voting for him you'd be essentially giving Hillary and her hard work a slap in the face. I firmly believe that in the end she'd rather want the realization of her vision of America than winning the presidency. So stop thinking about what you want, but start thinking about what she wants. Also, in an Obama cabinet position she can play a more effecive role in realizing her vision of America than when she is pushed to the sidelines by a McCain victory, for which a great many Democrats, rightly or wrongly, will blame her. Hillary supporters, if you truly want to play a heroic role in this historic election, then chose for the path of America that she wanted to take, and not for the destructive status quo we have now. Only you can decide this thing and I hope you'll choose to be on the "right" side of history. Thank you.

"The Great Elephant Is Wounded"-Kareem From Hampton, Va   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

AtlantaDan saying you support Hillary and then opting to vote for McCain is a slap in nobody's face BUT Hillary's! Secondly, you need to think long and hard about the comments! Its republicans on both sides (Obama & Clinton) posing as democrats dishing out the nasty remarks! Keep an eye out! They are the same people every where you go! True Clinton Supporters will not need to be "won over"! If they listened to anything she's said in the last 2 years it shouldnt matter WHO the nominee is..as long as the repubicans are out of office! And TRUE Clinton Supporters will know that even if she isnt the nominee this is only the beginning for her! When Obama is president Hillary can go furthur than she ever has in Senate (i.e. majority leader a 1st for a woman)…you vote for McCain and you've deadlocked her chances on making history again!! Not being nasty…just think about it!

Kim, PA   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

oops… did i mention i'm a black woman AND voting for Hillary????

Ding, Washington, DC   May 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

President Carter is one of the smartest person i know. He had all A s in: Elementary, High school, and College. Check out his report forms at the Carter Center in Atlanta, GA. Incredibly smart man.

Scott, Norfok, VA   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Michigan and Florida should be seated the way they voted, anything else would taint the nomination. Of course Obama does not want that as he would lose.

David, Santa Rosa, CA   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

I think we need to unite as dems. I also think that these polls that reflect 60% of Hillary voters saying they won't vote for Barack are misleading becuase to the best of my knowledge, there is no way to account for a primary that has run close to two years, not 6 months. No wonder each candidates supporters are entrenched. I think the media, once again, should consider it's responsability in this regard.

Hillary cannot be on the ticket for several reasons, but the primary reason is Bill. I also think that the Clinton campaign has done too much damage and proven that Hillary is not able to respond quickly to a crisis.

Joe Biden or Janet Napolitano would be my first tier VP candidates. I think Hillary SHOULD get a cabinet seat and I would like to see her as Secretary of the Dept. of Health and Human Services.

At the same time, I'm open to anything. Hillary on the tciet would be a fun and incredible ticket.

Anonymous   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

I do not believe she would except the number two spot. Because it would put her in the position of having to explain some of the comments she has made in the primary election. She may be willing to take an posstion related to health care under his administration. I think she knows she has given the republicans enough she does not want to give them her also to use against the democrates. That's just my way of thinking and either way I will be a democrate. With Obama or Hillary.

Mary   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

I am a black woman with a PhD, so please don't tell me that my vote against Barack is because I am racist or uneducated.

CAPTAIN CAPSLOCK   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

TO THOSE OF YOU WHO SAY YOU'D VOTE FOR MCCAIN BEFORE OBAMA…

Why? What rational could you possibly have? These two candidates share almost identical values..

Explain yourself or get real. ie.

CHECK YOURSELF. BEFORE YOU WRECK YOURSELF.

Terry in New York   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

I sure hope barcks people read some of these postings. He'd certaining stay away from Hillary like the plague if they do.

fairandstraight   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

You know, some of these comments are really letting the world see the division among the Democrats. It makes not sense to keep carrying on over Sen. Clinton not being the front-runner. In a free world the presidential nominee should have the right to choose his VP. Sen. Obama does not owe Sen. Clinton anything at all. The comments he extended her was too good considering how she attacked him so unfairly during this process.

His supporters and true democrats will respect his choice for VP. He will need some one he can work with in order to get the job done. Sen. Clinton is power hungry to the point that she can not accept reality.

Obama & whoever his choice for VP 08

Carl   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

I would bet Clinton runs as an independent. Why throw away all this support?

In fact, I pray that she does. I feel the days of the two party system should be banned. The more parties in the field and in Congress, the more that can get accomplished.

I blame both sides for screwing this country up, instead of big oil….

SlimSista   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

TO CARRIE…

WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT YOU ARE AN AMERICAN BEFOR AN DEMOCRAT?

AREN'T WE ALL AMERICANS….AT LEAST THE LAST TIME I CHECKED I AM AN AMERICAN AND SO IS OBAMA!!!!

Freida NYC   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Obama's supporters, why so much HATE? It really is disgusting the things you people post here. How do you all expect us Hillary supporters to vote for your candidate in Nov when you continue to bash, and demorilize our candidate?! Is this the kind of "diplomacy" you all learning from Obama. Well, this will not work with the international terrorist leaders.

Dennis   May 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

There are a lot of potentially great tickets out there. Should Obama become the nominee he could select from any number of Senators or Governors that would fill out his ticket in a complimentary fashion. Senator Clinton would be a fine choice. So would Senator Webb. Senator Hagel has been mentioned. I think it is premature to speculate who would be the best.

HILLARY HAS THE POPULAR VOTE!!!!!!   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

WHY WOULD HILLARY WANT TO GO ON A TICKET WITH THIS LOSER?

HE JUST WANTS HER BIG STATES NEEDED TO WIN IN NOVEMBER!!!

SHE THUMPED HIM AGAIN LAST NIGHT BY A 35% MARGIN AFTER THE 41% MARGIN IN WEST VIRGINIA!!!

HILLARY HAS WON FIVE OF THE LAST SEVEN PRIMARIES!

THIS MAKES HER THE BETTER CANDIDATE.

ONE HAS TO ASK:

WHY AFTER ALL THESE MONTHS AND ALL THE NEGATIVE PRESS HILLARY IS STILL WINNING?

THE SUPER DELEGATES NEED TO DO THE RIGHT THING AND NOMINATE THE ONE WHO CAN WIN!!!!

HILLARY CLINTON!!!!!!

Congratulation   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Hillary will add some voters to the ticket but for sure take away many republicans and some independents who may vote for Obama. In addition she will make many GOP rally behind McCain.
However, she should have a role in the next administration.

Darth Vadik, CA   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Do you people get it?

Who is voting for Clinton and who is voting for Obama?

Who is bringing in the new folks, its not Clinton.

She's in debt 31 million dollars, and thats a good run campaign?

Does she want to make the national debt 15 trillion?

There are two facts in this campaign:

1. Race does matter in this campaign.

2. If she wasn't rich, this campaign would have been over 2 months ago.

Terry from VA   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

If you are a Democrat you should consider voting for the nominee. If you do not want to vote Obama because he is not a female and not white, there is nothing he can do about that. If we lower ourselves to this level of debate then we should only elect White men. It is time for a change!! If we love this country we should be able to put aside the small issues and do what is best for the country, If some believe voting for a white person is more important than having health care, sound foreign policy and sound domestic policy, there is nothing Barack Obama can do about that. We need to move on for the best of the country.
God Bless America!!

Maggie   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Wow, Gary sounds like you are a member of Rev. Wright's church. Women are not going to sit back and be addressed as "sweetie or honey". We are stong and we are here to stay. "The best man for the job is a WOMAN" . I pray for Sen. Clinton to be awarded the Democratic Nomination. She has worked hard most of her life to make a difference in America. Sen. Obama is not that far ahead. Sen. Clinton should get the Nomination and it would be in America's best interest to allow her to be the Nominee. Sen. Obama Cannot beat McCain and America will be doomed if we have another Republican President, which is likely to be the outcome if Sen. Obama is the Nominee. He cannot beat McCain and Clinton can. Clinton/ Obama "09 - 12″ then have Sen. or VP Obama run and win in "12″
That is our only chance for the future of All Americans RED, WHITE and Blue alike.

A Latte Lover, Seattle, WA   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Atlanta Dan: This is the first election I have sent money to any campaign and I am happy to say I support Hillary.

Better go send her some more then, as she is 31 million in debt. I hope Jimmy Carter is correct, that Billary as VP is unlikely. There are many better choices out there.

Jacob   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Well, isn't it nice how completely clueless Jimmy Carter is about what Republicans do or do not favor…And how completely unstatesmanlike for him to make these type of divisive comments.

FL Voter   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Confused Carrie: HillBilly is simply putting Hillary and Bill Clinton's name together. Settle down, no one's calling you a hillbilly. A vote against Obama is a vote for the status quo. We need change!

BettiH, Indianapolis, IN.   May 21st, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Oh shut up "AtlantaDan", think with your brain and not with the fact that Clinton is behind in numbers. If you have children / grandchildren supporting McCain is signing their death warrants. I for one surely don't like Clinton, but if she steals the nomination which it is in any Clinton's blood to steal. I would still vote for her, and it would hurt like hell. I have a husband who has served in Afghanistan and came back scared of just walking outside for the fear of walking on a secretly planted land mine. I have 3 grown sons who love their country but doesn't want to fight or die due to a bogus lie and misjudgements starting this war in the first place. I have two grandsons that I don't want to see raised without their fathers. and guess what Dan? were a black a family who loves our country, and wants the war stopped so people can enjoy their sons and daughters and stop having to bury them. So our money isn't spent funding this bogus war, and can be brought back to the US and our economy. You people are being silly and selfish willing to vote for MaCain if Clinton doesn't steal the nomination