June 7, 2008
Posted: 12:35 PM ET
Sen. Obama changed the DNC's fund-raising rules after besting Sen. Hillary Clinton in a long primary battle.
Sen. Obama changed the DNC's fund-raising rules after besting Sen. Hillary Clinton in a long primary battle.

WASHINGTON (AP) – The Democratic National Committee is now operating under Barack Obama's fundraising rules.

The DNC today returned about $100,000 in money from lobbyists and political action committees.

A party official says the donations were already "in the pipeline" when Obama, the presumed Democratic presidential nominee, instituted the standards for the committee.

Obama imposed the rules to avoid a conflict with his own ban on money from federal lobbyists and PACs.

Republican John McCain does accept money from lobbyists and PACs as does the Republican National Committee and other party committees.

Obama's ban does not apply to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee nor to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

Related: Obama keeps Dean

Filed under: AP • Barack Obama • Popular Posts


Former Republican for Obama, Columbia, TN   June 7th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

I think this is a very good thing! Obama has pledged not to accept money from Lobbyist, who have all but corrupted Washington, DC. The DNC should follow suit.

Way to go Obama!

Paa Kwesi Richardson, Dusseldorf-Germany   June 7th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

This´s all about practicing what you preach and standing for what you believe in.That´s the REAL CHANGE !!!!!. I have learnt a lot from this man.
May God protect and guide you PRESIDENT OBAMA to let you stay focus all the time and never backslide on what you stand for.

ashamed   June 7th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

I am distraught and ashamed of my party for the cruelty and brutality they have shown this great leader.

They have done irreparable damage to the Democratic party by abandoning their own ideals of justice, equality and fair elections.

By their hate are they banished.

No longer will I vote the Dem ticket.

Love you Hillary.

God protect and bless and raise you up.

MD in OK   June 7th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

I have made 2 donations so far. I will be ready to make more donations. I think it is wonderful that Barack has made the decision not to accept money from lobbyists while John Mcshame is building his empire on the backs of lobbyists.

I remember reading about Jonh McShame raies $20 million in ONE DAY from lobbyists; that's really pathetic.

Democrats must unite in '08!!!

If only   June 7th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

If only they had played fair.

If only they had not hated.

If only they had counted the votes.

If only they had not cheated.

If only they had not kicked you into submission.

If only Oprah, the Kennedys and the Media had stayed fair and unbiased and had not swayed the vote for Obama.

Phillip   June 7th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

YES

This will be an easy blow for Obama to score on McCain. We all know he's up **** creek cashwise, so he can't afford to get out of lobbyists' pockets.

Obama Owns   June 7th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

This is why this man is going to make some changes.

AR in Oklahoma   June 7th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

It is with this level of honesty with the American people that he will win this campaign

Obama 08!!

too late   June 7th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Her supporters saw a big difference between the two-

The votes are not transferable.

Even for those that would vote party line– it is no longer conceivable to betray self by endorsing the hate and corruption and bashing that we were witness to.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   June 7th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Nice to see principled words followed by substantive action!

Annette, Washington, DC   June 7th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Looks like Obama is ready, pre-first day on the job!

Brian from California   June 7th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

It is so sad that the Democrats and all of us if this guy is elected will have to do everything under his rules and his rules alone. He is such an arrogant empty suit. He will blame the economy entirely on Bush when the Congress has been run by Democrats since 2006. I agree the Democrats have really made things worse. Now the Democrats with B. H. Obama will want to take over every aspect of our lives with high taxes. How the hell is this guy going to help the economy when he inflicts pain on small business owners with higher taxes.

He and Hillary won't be a dream team they will be a Nightmare team for all of us.

Art   June 7th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Well, he is already establishing his legacy? I do not know how too put it, but he is really up to something major not just in Washington but the rest of country. It may be too early to see the world in the picture; however, if he is running Washington he is running the world. I am not going to say too much about it for now but Obama is ready to run the show.

How noble!   June 7th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Every time I now hear the word "DNC," I want to throw up.

I am disgusted with the DNC and Democratic Party and have left it. It no longer represents what I believe in (millions of voters brutally disenfranchised because of “technicalities”!)
I will vote for McCain in November. While I don’t agree with him on everything, I trust him on national security and because he has REAL experience.
On the other hand, with Obama I agree on NOTHING and trust him on NOTHING!

goawaymongers   June 7th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Senator Obama is off to a great start! Putting ACTION into what some referred to as "just words".
Way to go Mr. President!

CCLady   June 7th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

Looks like we're changing from "Yes We Can" to "Yes We Will"!

Brian   June 7th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

What a joke! You need to read the commentaries by Pam Martens about Obama's money cartel and Obama's bubble agenda.

Twila   June 7th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

How come nobody wants to talk about why Sen. Clinton really lost this race, that being the media. There were turning points that could be cited but suffice it to say that when whole networks begin to make mountains out of the smallest molehills of one candidate while covering those same molehills with dust for another the outcome gets affected. Please own up to the media's responsibility . This has to stop. It's shameful. And you wonder why Sen. Clinton's supporters are bitter?:

unions are not stupid   June 7th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Yea thats right change we can believe in! clean out our own house of special interest then move on to the rest of the country and other parties i hope they all go bankrupt!

Esther from Cuyahoga Falls Ohio   June 7th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

way to clean house is to throw the junk out as you find it. way to go Obama clean house and then rebuilt us from the ground up

Cheryl L. Swaim   June 7th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Let the Republicans get all the lobbyist money. Obama doesn't need any. He can get his from Tony Rezko and Oprah.
I'm not a Democrat any more.

Happily Independent   June 7th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Obama is putting his stamp on the Democratic party.. If the DNC has to return federal lobbyist money, then that is a good thing. Federal lobbyists are a big reason that there is gridlock in Wahington and nothing ever gets done. I support Obama because he does not view Republicans as the enemy. He sees Republicans as individuals that hold difference views than he has. He states over and over again that old divisions need to end because we are all Americans. If elected officials worked in the spirit of cooperation and compromise, then we could see progress on allot of issues that have been let dangling because of partisan politics.

BRiley   June 7th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

All of you rude Obama supporters and the very arrogant Obama have made me switch from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. Continue your ways of arrogance and stepping on peoples backs along the way and eventually you will crash & burn. Vote Republican 2008. The leader of our country should be someone who is patriotic and respectable….Obama has neither of these qualities!!

akam   June 7th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

McCain in 08…. obama never never….

Zoey   June 7th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

That's my man! Obama is awesome and I'm so happy to cast my very first vote ever for him! Maybe we can get more Americans to get their butts off the couch and vote this year???

Indep-Cuban-American-woman-Obamavoter   June 7th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Good! It is about time that our government is "BY THE PEOPLE, AND FOR THE PEOPLE"! Not corporations!

no longer a dem   June 7th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I watched what they did to Hillary.

I decided I did not belong to this hateful and corrupt party any longe.

I will not participate in the savaging, eliminating, strong-arming the best candidate out of the race mentality.

Manny   June 7th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

That's fine, but can someone explain why we didn't see the video of Obama "misspeaking" in S.Dakota until Friday? He didn't know what town he was in and said a patient had been put on a breathalyzer instead of respirator. Now I don't want to sound cynical, BUT, if that were McCain, he would be senile and if it were HRC she would be lying. As it was, the commentators were quick to point out that poor baby Barack was just tired from all his campaigning. What a crock!

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   June 7th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Good Job Obama thats the way to set the tone!

She cannot be his V.P. for these reasons and I say this with no disrespect to Hillary supporters. Obama is about change he can’t stand for change if he excepts Hillary as his running mate.

1. She voted for the war, this alone undermines his #1 talking point against McCain. The GOP/McCain will use this against Obama.

2. The rethughlicans want her on the ticket; this is why the Anti-American Fox News Channel keeps pushing her to be on the ticket. Her voting record and Bill Clintons past will continually be a distraction for Obama.

3. Her supporters are pushing this so they can prove Obama is weak and can be push around. They can possibly try to secretly undermine his campaign. Again; McWar and the GOP will say Obama is weak, he forced to accept Hillar on his ticket.

4. Hillary Clinton excepts lobbyist money, this is another issue that Obama’s trying to change his presidential campaign was not built federal PAC’s and lobbyist funds.

Seriously, she thought she had this election in the bag. She believed in her own arrogance and invincibility; she took this election process for granted

Voice of reason   June 7th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

It is thirty years past time that we get lobbyist out of running our government. What a stupid generation that I had to grow up watching. BIG OIL put Bush in the WHITE HOUSE for the better of the last decade. The worst eight years of my life. Lobbyist and the republicans ruined America from the start of my adult life. Don't blame me, I voted for Gore and Kerry. Best of Luck Obama. Just watch you back, I am scared for you but I support you. Good bye baby boomer generation thanks for nuttin.:) Thank God my parents generation rule is over……………

LettuceB1   June 7th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Looks like the Clintons are no longer in charge of the DNC. The change of the guard is exciting. The old politics is gone. I'm glad that Clinton and Obama supporters are going to witness history together. I'm sad that my candidate didn't win but I have no problems supporting Obama. I WILL NOT vote for McCain and anyone who says they will wasn't a true believer in Hillary and is a paid McCain troll. Don't be fooled by McCain. Change you can believe in!

RYAN   June 7th, 2008 11:59 am ET

CNN, and other networks the German Social Democratic Party chairman Kurt Beck endorses Obama for president and he optimistically hope Americans elect him this fall….CNN please give us that headline…………

Andy in Seattle   June 7th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Thank you Obama. Big money has no business in politics and government, other than participating just like all other citizens; No more buying influence.

Kori   June 7th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Way to go Barack, start showing the difference between you and McBush now…keep your word.

Very Proud of you.

LettuceB1   June 7th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Looks like the Clintons are no longer in charge of the DNC. The change of the guard is exciting. The old politics is gone. I'm glad that Clinton and Obama supporters are going to witness history together. I'm sad that my candidate didn't win but I have no problems supporting Obama. I WILL NOT vote for McCain and anyone who says they will wasn't a true believer in Hillary and is a paid McCain troll. Change you can believe in!

Former Democrat   June 7th, 2008 11:56 am ET

I don't care about Hillary's endorsement - I'd rather endure four more years under McCain than vote for that racist phoney Obaloney

I can wait until 2012 to vote for Hillary

I don't care about Roe vs. Wade anymore - I can no longer get pregnant

I don't care if gas goes to $10 a gallon - I can afford it

I care about kids dying in Iraq, but I have no children myself, so it's not personal; and I think more children would die under a Barack presidency than under a McCain one

I don't care about the fiscal mess Bush got us into - I have worked hard all my life, and McCain's tax credits for the rich might actually benefit me

What I DO care about at this point in my life:

MY VOTE, which because I am a resident of Florida, Barack and the corrupt idiotic Democratic Party (thank goodness I am no longer one of them) STOLE from me WHEN IT WOULD HAVE MADE A DIFFERENCE!!!

My intelligence, which the media keeps underestimating. They think just because they say so, I will join the Obama is God sheep come November, once I get over my irritation with their misogyny.

My feminism - I am just SO TIRED of women-hating freaks like Jack Cafferty.

I'm off to give another donation to John McCain -

McCain '08, Clinton '12

Allison- Mclean, Va   June 7th, 2008 11:56 am ET

Now that is a leader. He just won my vote

Michael Templer   June 7th, 2008 11:55 am ET

obviously returning it is worth 10 times that much in political capital

but you have to start somewhere

Chris   June 7th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Change requires action and following a leaders guide… glad to see some changes have begun.

I wonder how much McSame has from PAC's and lobbyists???

Ken in NC   June 7th, 2008 11:53 am ET

It is a promise he has made and upheld. Agood start.

One Love!   June 7th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Absolutely GENIUS!

Thank You Barak!

Thank You Supporters of Barak!

buried treasure.   June 7th, 2008 11:53 am ET

My vote is not transferable to the imposter dictator-wannabe.

My vote was YOURS. It still is.

But I can never again consider voting for Obama, after all the hate and injustice they shoveled to bury you.

You are the candidate we will always treasure… and who we will be thinking of as we pull the lever.

Mike in Calgary   June 7th, 2008 11:53 am ET

A clear example of Leadership by Obama and dithering by McCain. This svelte move makes it all the more clear who is beholden to the lobbyists. Bravo for Obama as he brings leadership, transparency and CHANGE to Washington!

Mike in Canada

Andre - Believer.   June 7th, 2008 11:52 am ET

With that, Obama is starting to cast his shadow over the Democratic party. This is one of the most amazing things for me as a black man to see in this day and age. I'm beside myself!!!!!!!

What?   June 7th, 2008 11:51 am ET

Love your grace for supporting Obama.

I will put truth before party.
Honor before loyalty.
Freedom before socialist dictatorship.

I am outta here now.

HILLARY was the real story.
Make HERSTORY together and leave this corrupt party.

hypocrats   June 7th, 2008 11:49 am ET

The democrats have destroyed their party.

This campaign ran counter to all the ideals of the party that kept me a member for 35 years- although I am one of the dems that is better represented by the republicans (financially).

I will never give the nod of approval to what the nation did to HRC.

I can easily live with 4 more years of the same.

Beats voting for a lying, cheating, hypocritical candidate who remains totally unqualified- but would love to be dictator.

Steve from California   June 7th, 2008 11:49 am ET

The Congressional and Senatorial Campaign Committees are exempt from Obama's edict. Gotta make sure the "super" delegates are happy. The Democrats are hypocrits!

E. C., Houston, Texas   June 7th, 2008 11:48 am ET

Are you CERTAIN that John McCain accepts money from lobbyists?
This sounds like a totally incorrect statement. Think you're completely incorrect. Also check out the ENTIRE STATEMENT about Republicans and PACs.

demagogue   June 7th, 2008 11:47 am ET

Glad that she can find it in her heart to endorse.

I will stand for truth and honor and freedom and equality and fair elections.

I will stand against discrimination, and bias, and hate and corruption.

No to Obama- sorry, Hill but my vote stays with you.

Obama as the winner   June 7th, 2008 11:47 am ET

No lobbying in washington this coming reign !!! This is change we are now seeing in progress, don't you just love the Son of America " OBAMA" ?
Obama our david to fight Goliath .
We are keeping them honest and thats what we want washington to be in the future , full of HONEST politicians.

Faye Zhengxing   June 7th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Dear CNN:

I am so pleased to see that Obama insists on the principle he believes in. We need a leader who will not be fooled by money to lose the sight of the future of this country. Obama did not lose money. He gains much more by standing firmly Iwith the principle. This country nees a leader to uphold the rule of law.

Thank you for your report.

Please forward my comment to Obama. Sallute!

Faye Zhengxing, Ph.D.

adocarbog   June 7th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Obama is showing leadership and strenght. Good job and keep special interests out. If it worked this great for your campaign then it will work well for the country!!!

ak   June 7th, 2008 11:44 am ET

It is funny to me that the day senator Obama announced that we will not take any PAC money or his White House will not be run by lobbyist, next day he goes to the biggest lobbyist group in the country AIPAC for their support. Interesting!

shegenisl   June 7th, 2008 11:41 am ET

This is the first sign that Sen. Obama is going to honor his word on how he is going to run this country and keep the DNC honest under his guidelines. I'm looking forward to what else he has on his agenda. This is a positive step.For those people who says that he is all talk and no substance, I think this lets them know what they'll be in for in the upcoming months.

ayoma   June 7th, 2008 11:40 am ET

good move

keke   June 7th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Symbolic move, but a show of good faith nonetheless. When our founders prescribed that we should be able to lobby our legislators, they didn't foresee the influence the monied interest would ultimately achieve.

shannonL   June 7th, 2008 11:39 am ET

what a joke…they can't take money from lobbyists, but they can take money from their spouses. READ THE FINE PRINT. Obama's fund raising rules are a joke…just a ploy for those too lazy to read the details…which is almost his entire cult following.

Obama DOES take money from lobbyist families…just not the actual lobbyists….I can't believe CNN doesn't report this!

Jeffrey Peace SC   June 7th, 2008 11:39 am ET

About time someone is changing the way congress does things OBAMA 08

David   June 7th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Barack Obama, a true leader who we all can believe in!

Christina   June 7th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Obama has not even been the nominee for a week, and he already has had a positive influence on his party. Thank you Barack!
And thank you Hillary for all that you have done! You were a great opponent and a great candidate.
Democrats Unite!
Obama '08

Francisco Romero   June 7th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Why I will switch parties. I have always been a Democrat. In fact, I have always voted for this party thinking that it respresented a change of view from the staunch republicans. However, after this last straw about not counting Michigan and Florida (again), I can not take it anymore.

I will be voting for Mac this November and perhaps as most other Latinos I feel betrayed by the votes for Mrs. Clinton. We can not move into unity by just saying we are going to vote for Barack Hussien Obama and let's all forget our time and faith in her.

I am dismayed by the politics of the DNC and therefore, I am moving to McCain's camp.

One Latino vote for McCain in November.

JH   June 7th, 2008 11:36 am ET

So what! Is Hillary on the ticket, NO, so, McCain for 08

No Obama McCain President!   June 7th, 2008 11:35 am ET

I'm voting for Republican John McCain President!!!!!!!!!

Jonathan   June 7th, 2008 11:35 am ET

FINALLY, and unlike the Republicant's, the Dems. are putting OUR money where their mouths are and commiting to ending the deep seeded corruption plagueing DC; which is after all, mostly Republican caused, controled and twisted.

Blayze Kohime   June 7th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Obama shows that he isn't as willing as McCain to be paid off by lobbyists pushing their agenda on our government. So this is your choice: if you choose McCain you may as well be electing a corporation as President.

Robert   June 7th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Some people may be impressed by Obama's refusal to accept donations from PACs but I am not one of them. Alot of PACs serve a good purpose. They are a good way for citizens to push a specific issue through an organization.

We have a problem in this country with vilifying lobbyists. People should remember that we live in a free country and anyone should be able to donate money and advocate for whatever cause they want. Obviously, abuses can take place and have on both sides of the aisle. However, this is just another stunt by Obama to smokescreen real issues.

Standard   June 7th, 2008 11:27 am ET

The time has come for a change! Barrack talks the walk and walks the talk.

Go beat McCain!! (and he will)

Dan   June 7th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Good! When we get rid of the Lobbyists, we will once again gain control of our political system.

John McSame is just another Bush. Pro Big Business, for the Big Guy, and will take all the "donations" he can. Money shouldnt talk politics.

Marsha Rimler   June 7th, 2008 11:24 am ET

I will vote No
The democrats picked the showboat-not the workhorse- I am out of the party

Sharon Block   June 7th, 2008 11:23 am ET

FINALLY! We have a candicate for President who actually walks the talk!! The man promised change.

martin   June 7th, 2008 11:23 am ET

honesty and integrity.we're so lucky to have this man as our next president.

NWest Standards   June 7th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Change we can believe in, has now started with money lobbying centrum. Change has now began, don't you feel it? Old politics has no existence in today's world, such as fear and smear tactics by those who believed that tha's the way politics are working. Not at all…

Lisa   June 7th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Oh, I love the way Obama operates. I cannot wait to see what changes he will bring about when he takes over as President. My prayers are with him and his family.

king from toronto   June 7th, 2008 11:20 am ET

wow!! now this is change we can believe in.

Mr Mike   June 7th, 2008 11:19 am ET

One small step for the DNC - one giant leap for Democrats!

Ron   June 7th, 2008 11:17 am ET

It's Great to see Obama and the DNC denying donations from Pacs and lobbyists this shows America a Change and a high standard of ethics, Much greater than the GOP.

God Bless America!

God Bless Obama!

Jerry Paul   June 7th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Man this guy is serious!!!!!!!

Alisha(Independent voter) MN   June 7th, 2008 11:17 am ET

I can respect Obama for this move…It is nice to see a politician not only talk the talk, but walk the walk.

Buckeye Girl 4 Obama   June 7th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Barack Obama - Keepin' 'em honest!!!

Democrat from Abroad   June 7th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Obama already leading by example

Obama 08: Female, 60, white   June 7th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Very smart move on Obama's part…the first of many.

Now he needs to find a mutually powerful and productive role for Hillary…VP won't give her the status or power she has earned…health care, poverty, ….I believe the two will resolve this!

Eric   June 7th, 2008 11:14 am ET

This is fantastic to hear. Barack Obama is taking ownership of the party that he is ready to command. Barack is illustrating that he will be true to his word; by not accepting PAC and lobbyist money. He also impressed me on how he responded to the media malarkey about the VP candidate. He was firm when he said that he doesn’t respond to pressure, and that he was going to follow the process and vet every candidate. This shows me great leadership.

I was/am a Hillary supporter…but I must admit, I like what I see so far. If this continues, he has my vote.

Eric

Jen B   June 7th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Excellent!
Now, let's hope he can convince the Clinton team that she is responsible for her debts and should not expect us "hardworking" voters to bail her out. After all, the lady has millions to spare.

Hillary as an Idependent   June 7th, 2008 11:11 am ET

I think Hillary should run as an Independent. Senator Obama is a good man and will make a great nominee in time and with experience.

Democrats will have to overcome 'trust' duirng this election. Many Americans have watched as longtime friends and collegues can turn on you.

Chidi   June 7th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Good start. This is leadership by example. Washington returning back to Americans not for Americans.

Judi Smith   June 7th, 2008 11:11 am ET

When are you reporters at CNN going to quit beating up on Hillary? It is disgracefull the way you at CNN threw her under the bus months ago and backed up over her every day since. She is a great person who would have the the presidency if not for some of the Obama supporters out of the 30 people at the rules committee on 05/31/08 who decided the nominee when they did not allow Florida and Michigans votes to count because THEY HAD TO BE PUNISHED! I live in Michigan and have been an active democrat all of my life. I did not know that my vote would not count. She ran an excellent race and you reporters need to quit beating a dead horse. Hillary supporters are hurt enough already why do you feel the need to keep hurtng them more? You also say that the party will come together like nothing happened and vote for Obama in November you are wrong and it is not because we hate Obama it is because our party let us down we can not trust the democratic party any longer. Mnay of us will vote for McCain I know that I will, if the Un-democratic-demoncratic party felt they needed to punish me for voteing thinking I was doing the right thing then I guess it is my turn to punish them!

dc   June 7th, 2008 11:10 am ET

change will can believe in.

jerry   June 7th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Way to go Barack. The only problem is that all of the legislature is still receiving the money and they write the laws. The pres only signs it in to law.

Aren't federal lobbyists and PACs illegal in most country's yet we allow other Governments to come in and lobby here?.

Chris from NY   June 7th, 2008 11:08 am ET

This is truly remarkable. That the government now belong to the people and not to few big men and women. This is democracy in action.

Baian   June 7th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Life is wonderfull or WILL be
Mr. Obama goes to Washington and cleans the old ways of washington system of the UGLY FAT CATS.
Good for America.

Janet, 60+White Female American via Canada   June 7th, 2008 11:08 am ET

A truly New Change - Step by Step The American People are taking back their country.
The road to achievement will be hard and uncharter, but if we pull up our sleeves and give ourself a chance we can do anything.
We are the makers of our own desting and history for future generations!

Sandy from Ohio   June 7th, 2008 11:06 am ET

This is one of the reasons that i like Obama. He uses only money raised from the ordinary person. This means he owes no one any favors. I hope this applies to Clinton She ran up her campaign debt herself so let her pay it off . Change means that you don't do thing the way they have always don it. She new she was loosing and should have got out instead of running up her debit for some else to pay off. She has been so arrogant that her debit is her and bill's problem!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Christoffel van Vuuren - Montreal - Canada   June 7th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Good Start!

Don't Vote for McCain   June 7th, 2008 11:04 am ET

This is one of the main reasons I'm voting for him

tj   June 7th, 2008 11:04 am ET

DNC has to think twice on this because they will not get a penny from many moderate democrats who are ashamed of DNC's behavor in primaries.
This party does not represent it's base any more - it was hijacked by left-wing ultra liberals. Why should moderate democrats support such party.
I personally and my friends are not going do this any more.
And under no circumstances we are going to vote for unexperienced, untrustworthy candidate.
We prefer to vote McCain this time.
Good luck to DNC in November

Williams   June 7th, 2008 11:03 am ET

Change already!!!!!!OBAMA 2008

Barack Uda   June 7th, 2008 11:02 am ET

Off to a fabulous start!!!

Anthony   June 7th, 2008 11:02 am ET

You say the Republican National Committee still accepts money from these people. I Obama does not limit the party with this stance. In a campaign you need money to get the word out.

Marsha   June 7th, 2008 11:00 am ET

Good job..dems
No more money for votes

Kelly   June 7th, 2008 10:59 am ET

Amazing! THIS is democracy! Already a step in the right direction. I will definitely be donating now. Let Washington know who has the REAL power!!! Yes we can!

An Ohio Oracle   June 7th, 2008 10:59 am ET

@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

Hey that is pocket change for Obama. I wonder where the internal audit team is? They should look into his financing.

I am quite sure Rezko didn't contribute or did he? Did Ayers or did he not? Those are pressing questions.

When I go to sleep at night, I want someone with experience to answer the phone at three in the morning. The Office of the Presidency is not a place for On the Job Training (OJT).

————————30

Chuck, Democrats United We Stand   June 7th, 2008 10:58 am ET

Talking about keeping your word to the American People. This is only the begining.

vic nashville,Tn   June 7th, 2008 10:56 am ET

How much Tony Rezko will get his money back ?
Hillary 08 to Mc Cain 08

Mark   June 7th, 2008 10:55 am ET

Nothing short of completely presidential, and brushing close to staggeringly historic.

God bless this man..

mj - florida   June 7th, 2008 10:55 am ET

Integrity ~ something that has been missing in the White House for to long.

Obama 08

Antoine   June 7th, 2008 10:55 am ET

That is how a REAL leader is supposed to act. I would like to see John McCain act like a real leader. Especially since he's hijacking Obama's slogan.

TXdem   June 7th, 2008 10:54 am ET

Looks like standards are going up already.

AN AMERICAN POLITICAL (R)EVOLUTIONARY   June 7th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Stifle and bury the old world politics

that allows, even encourages,

the purchase of influence, favors and legislation

to benefit the few, at the cost of the many,

in our AMERICAN population.

christine   June 7th, 2008 10:53 am ET

This should be the new direction for the country and Obama is doing just that. Go Mr. President we are behind you. Those lobbyists make us ordinary people suffer. You've got my Vote…….

maria   June 7th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Good start OBMAMA.
Hope Bush doesn't use his Presidential Directive he signed last May 2007 to stay in power. Look it up, Bush can use this presidential directive for any reason to call for marshall law and Bush can stay in power even after the election.

OBAMA 2008

Abraham   June 7th, 2008 10:52 am ET

That's what we're talking about! That's how it should start. With Obama change is not a vain word!

David   June 7th, 2008 10:51 am ET

They didn't fund the most expensive campaign up till today.
DNC will make it without them.

Clinton/McCain   June 7th, 2008 10:50 am ET

I wonder when Obama will return all the money HIS campaign received from lobbyists?

ok   June 7th, 2008 10:49 am ET

WAY TO GO BARACK

Mr. B.   June 7th, 2008 10:49 am ET

America Is Ready
Obama 08

Chuck   June 7th, 2008 10:48 am ET

Way to go, Obama. Obvioulsy, you practice what you preach and that's what will get you elected.

Scott Glenn, Wa   June 7th, 2008 10:47 am ET

integrity! makes me smile!

MN for Obama   June 7th, 2008 10:47 am ET

way to go Obama…. you are on your way to change this country. Obama 08 & 12

Lisa Roos   June 7th, 2008 10:46 am ET

GO OBAMA!!! CLEAN UP THAT MESS!!

Celeste   June 7th, 2008 10:46 am ET

All I care about is having a job making enough money to keep my home, raise my kids, buy food, buy my other living necessities, be able to afford enough gas to do these things and by the grace of God be able to retire with health care and soc. security so I don't have to eat dog food.

PLEASE AMERICA, WE NEED A CHANGE. JUST DON'T LET THE REPUBLICANS BACK IN!

OBAMA '08

Big Texan   June 7th, 2008 10:46 am ET

Right thing to do folks! Kick out the lobbyists and Pacs from our political system once and for all. They won't run our white house anymore. Good riddance!!!

Si Se Puede!
Obama 08 12

Nevada Mom   June 7th, 2008 10:46 am ET

This is so big!

I have been an Obama supporter since these primaries began, but I have to admit that I was just hoping that he is truly the "real deal".

Now, I know he is.

He has said he'll change Washington. He isn't even waiting until he takes office. He's putting his money where his mouth is and the American people are going to thank him with votes in November!

My prediction: Obama 65% McCain 35%

MizuInOz   June 7th, 2008 10:45 am ET

Integrity in government!

How are we going to handle it?
What will the world think?

A man who keeps his commitments in the small things, will keep his commitments in the big things.

I honour Sen. Clinton for all she has done and truly appreciate her commitment to supporting the presumed nomination of Sen. Obama.

Co-operation what a breath of fresh air!

Jason Carter   June 7th, 2008 10:44 am ET

This is fantastic. Not only is Obama setting a fabulous precedent for the DNC, he's creating a political atmosphere that makes John McCain look really bad if he continues to accept PAC and lobbyist money. Great sound-byte material for October.

Billion   June 7th, 2008 10:44 am ET

thats what im talking about. not even the president yet and already making change. Barack is the man.

Obama 08 .. no doubt!

robert   June 7th, 2008 10:43 am ET

OBAMA ROCKS IM VOTING FOR HIM :)

FALSE FRONTS   June 7th, 2008 10:40 am ET

Like these greedy DC polliticians will stop taking lobbyist money.

This is just a false front to show they are "changing"!

Gimme a break- I'll believe it when the corporations start lobbying American employees with living wages, and the corrupt politicians start representing the American people and following the constitution.

It doesn't matter who is "elected", all three of the corporate media picked candidates are a part of the CFR, they will continue to sell us, legal citizens, out for cheap slave labor. And none of the top 3 will end the war in Iraq.

We had a chance to elect someone who was actually telling the truth to the American public, and who had real solutions to the problems that are destroying this one free and prosperous nation. Except the corporate owned "free" press didn't let America hear the message of freedom, peace and the constituion.

It makes me sick to hear that more military personel, retired and active, gave more donations to the Paul campaign, than to all other campaigns combined… and the media just wrote Ron Paul off as crazy.

Land of the sheep, home of the afraid.

Bill   June 7th, 2008 10:39 am ET

Outstanding! Now THAT'S the way to start a campaign.

Go Obama!

Tito Obafemi   June 7th, 2008 10:39 am ET

This is a new day in America, should this principle be uphold, our nation will be the greatest again.
I have to tell you that, I am convinced that this MAN called Barack, is a new DAY.

God bless AMERICA.

Tom   June 7th, 2008 10:38 am ET

CHANGE is coming to Washington.

wow   June 7th, 2008 10:36 am ET

The first step in the right direction. Change is coming.

cleareye   June 7th, 2008 10:36 am ET

everybody knows that he accept the same lobbyist money from state lobbyists or federal lobbyists spouses. it's just propaganda. the same lobbyist money comes in from the backdoor.

PUMA democrat

Jul   June 7th, 2008 10:36 am ET

We urgently need Obama here in Germany to clean our political marsh.

Wise White Guy   June 7th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Finally a man we can believe in with ideals and honesty. I applaud you Barack as well as the DNC for falling in line with what is the right way to do things. Washington is changing before our eyes. This is living history folks. I am seeing things i never believed i would live long enough to witness and i am proud of my Country for the first time in a very long time.

Millie Zimmerman   June 7th, 2008 10:33 am ET

Applause for Senator Obama's moves to slean up fundraising at the
DNC. It won't be perfect and someone will find a leak or mistake, but it's leadership and a big step toward "maturity."

Fundraising in small increments from individuals has always worked in the country, we just forget that!

M.

Tony   June 7th, 2008 10:33 am ET

This is a sign of good governance.I can bet with my House that Obama will be one of the best Presidents ever produced in the US,along side with JFK und Reagon.

Matisse   June 7th, 2008 10:33 am ET

I like that.

ct voter   June 7th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Mr. Obama, give me the website and I will donate to the DNC right away!

Monica for Obama in Indiana   June 7th, 2008 10:28 am ET

That's the way to go Obama, keep it clean from the beginning. That also means No Billary and No Bayh

Valerie - St. Louis, MO   June 7th, 2008 10:26 am ET

He is as good as his word. Go Obama!

Tai   June 7th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Thank You Mr. President for already cleaning things up, starting wit ur own party all the way to the white house!

Shannon   June 7th, 2008 10:26 am ET

This is one of countless examples of his ethics in action. The DNC just reported being in dire need for money and behind the RNC. I think I will go donate to them right now, as they are no longer under Special Interest control

kenny cole   June 7th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Yes thats the change we can believe in go go OBAMA GO

Foreign Observer   June 7th, 2008 10:24 am ET

Perhaps all those folks asking "what does Obama stand for?" can quiet down a bit. This is huge.

stanley   June 7th, 2008 10:23 am ET

I don't see the reason why anybody will think that obama will pick hilary as vice then it means that indirectly bill clinton is back in white and we don't know what he gonna do next please for the love of this great country please obama don't buy those that said you should pick her cause it is not true we support you make your best judgement and go for your instict.

Joel S   June 7th, 2008 10:23 am ET

It's been a long time coming — but I know a change is gonna come. Thanks Barack!

Chuck   June 7th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Its called LEADING BY EXAMPLE!

James, Akron, OH   June 7th, 2008 10:21 am ET

While it's certainly a gesture in the right direction, I'm sure the lobbyists have contributed more than $100K…

It's nice to know that we have a candidate willing to take a stand against special interest groups.

Tony, Miami   June 7th, 2008 10:19 am ET

The new President of the United States is taking matters on hand. Good move Mr. President.

steveda - poconos, PA   June 7th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Senator McCain,,, THIS is change we can believe in. How about you and the Republicans follow Mr. Obama's lead here? What's that?
Yeah, that means you have to give back the Right to Life money. Yeah, the defense industry donations to. Oh definitely, the oil industry is included.

Oh… this takes too much of your campaign money away? Oh well. Enjoy retirement.

Rob   June 7th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Finally an honest politician

Mary IN AL   June 7th, 2008 10:16 am ET

Excellent! WE will make it up for them. It is critical that the Democrats take control of the White House. The latest report- Americans are 1.7 trillion, yes, trillion dollars poorer!
Are we better off or are we worse from a republican White House?
We are far worse. No republicans in the White House!
Americans can't afford to elect another republican. Look at the State of the Union. Recession. war, increasing poverty, loss of jobs, continues threat because bin lauden has not been caught……. the list goes on and on and on. McCain is a carbon copy of Bush–but even more incompetent.

Karwolo   June 7th, 2008 10:15 am ET

At least he walking the walk. If you pick an experienced VP (not Hillary, she's not experienced, might as well pick Bill) you will have my vote.

Independent happy Clinton lost.

CLINTON SUPPORTER   June 7th, 2008 10:14 am ET

How funny!!!!!! This coming from a man who accepted all that money from Tony Rezko for his Senatorial campaign!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In my opinion, it is worse to accept money from criminals than it is to accept it from lobbyist and special interest groups.

Watermann   June 7th, 2008 10:14 am ET

Yes……..

Oh, Yea!   June 7th, 2008 10:13 am ET

At least Obama is keeping to his word on Lobbists and PAC money.
He is doing what he said he would - keeps to his promises.
The question here is John McCain - where does his money come from? From Utah - Bush's cash cow! And, Bush's good old boys!

HILLARY WAS FORCED OUT BY SEXISM!!!   June 7th, 2008 10:13 am ET

HAVING OBAMA MAKE ANY DECISIONS IS A SCARY THING!

Anonymous   June 7th, 2008 10:12 am ET

ok. so

Senior Gal   June 7th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Bravo, Obama. And so the change begins ——cleaning up Washington, D.C. I couldn't be happier.

p.s. And I'll send him another small check……………….Democracy in action.

CB   June 7th, 2008 10:11 am ET

To INTEGRITY - Wow, haven't seen you in a long long time in poltics - welcome back!

Anil   June 7th, 2008 10:10 am ET

Obama is already on the right tract. both party should adopt this policy across the board,presidential , congressional as well as senatorial elections. why McCain , "the campaign reformer guy " stop taking campaign money from the lobbyists ? who is just talk eh ?
this the most important first step in cleaning Washington.

case   June 7th, 2008 10:10 am ET

This is an excellent strategy to choke off one of the GOP's money lines or attack their "dependency" on it. Obama and DNC can raise money directly from the public. could you imagine the McCain campaign pushing for low dollar donations over the internet? He will have to accept lobbyists money creating greater clarity between the candidates and parties.

linda from South Dakota   June 7th, 2008 10:10 am ET

well its quite understandable that mccain cant do anything without the help of these people,,, doin it the way obamas doin it makes sense,,, maybe the other side should take hint,, ya think? mccbush<< doesnt work,, we need change and obama will make a good change,, he has my vote, go obama!!!

HILLARY WAS FORCED OUT BY SEXISM!!!   June 7th, 2008 10:09 am ET

THIS IS JUST A PLOY TO MAKE HIM LOOK GOOD AND TO GET VOTES!
TOO LATE!
I THINK AT THIS POINT THE PEOPLE HAVE IT FIGURED OUT!

OBAMA HAS TAKEN MONEY FROM TOM REZKO AND REVEREND WRIGHT!
WE ARE LOSING THE BEST CANDIDATE TO WIN IN NOVEMBER, HILLARY!
THE FACT THAT OBAMA AND McCAIN ARE TIED IN THE POLLS SHOULD SCARE THE DEMOCRATS!
YOU PUT THE WRONG PERSON IN, AND WE WILL LOSE IN NOVEMBER!
THANKS DNC!

Mark   June 7th, 2008 10:08 am ET

That is C H A N G E W E C A N B E L I E V E I N ! ! !

jo   June 7th, 2008 10:07 am ET

good start my presedant

Jan from Boca Raton, Fl   June 7th, 2008 10:07 am ET

I hope Hillary runs as an Independant, she will win…

Alot of my friends that are republicians were going to switch and vote for Hillary, now they are back to McCain.

Florida is not going to vote for Obama, and now we are going to loose
as Democrats and loose the White House. SO SAD.

Michael King Of Prussia, PA   June 7th, 2008 10:05 am ET

The United States Government what designed to represent its citizens. Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg address clearly stated: "government of the people, by the people, for the people." Not of the lobbyists, for the lobbyists, by the lobbyists I applaud the DNC and senator Obama. Now I like to see the RNC and John McCain follow the leadership of the DNC and senator Obama.

clay   June 7th, 2008 10:05 am ET

and people said he was all talk! voting for him is ALREADY paying off.

Democrat in 08!   June 7th, 2008 10:04 am ET

Wow he's serious about this lobbyist thing lol good for him.

Michael, an independent Canadian   June 7th, 2008 10:03 am ET

You Americans are fortunate to have someone who is truly for the people and not for Corporate America and Wall Street.

And, as an unbiased observer to the US primaries, it is absolutely amazing to read on various CNN blogs that Obama viciously attacked Clinton!!! Nothing could be further from the truth. If anything, I was quite impressed how Obama maintained restraint from all of the attacks levelled on him by Clinton.

It almost makes me think that there many Republicans pretending to be Clinton supporters that are trying to stir up the Democrats on these CNN and other blogs!!

Neutral   June 7th, 2008 10:00 am ET

Don't you think all registered parties should follow suit? I think this gives the Democratic party and Obama credibility. If John McCain disowns lobbyists, why then does he take their money?

Dusacre   June 7th, 2008 10:00 am ET

Good work Obama. Let clean politics. It will never be perfectly cleaned, but any step in the right direction is good, indeed very good

Larry   June 7th, 2008 9:59 am ET

The beginning of the 'change' wave.

Stacy   June 7th, 2008 9:59 am ET

This is the path to true change. McCain only offers OLD ways . Please show your support and donate. It will take an effort by the people if we want power restored to the people. Take action and VOTE, VOLUNTEER, DONATE and SPEAK UP!

Paula   June 7th, 2008 9:58 am ET

Fabulous! He is right on top of things and a rule player! It is about time and it makes one excited about the changes coming!!

Crush Rush   June 7th, 2008 9:56 am ET

Republicans work for Corporate America and will continue corporate welfare programs.People like Limbaugh,who works for big oil and believes global warming is a hoax.

The US abolishes century old clinton dynasty   June 7th, 2008 9:55 am ET

good finally someone honest and who practiceswhat he preaches..

mm i might vote for him instead of McBushclinton

i might have to rally the troops to support Obama………

Kylee - IL   June 7th, 2008 9:53 am ET

Wow. He sticks to his word, doesn't he?

Army Wife   June 7th, 2008 9:52 am ET

————-can someone please bring the gas prices lower??

————————-anyone???

Joe   June 7th, 2008 9:51 am ET

I'll be placing my vote with the party that is NOT bought and paid for.

Obama '08

rachel   June 7th, 2008 9:48 am ET

So he bans it but not really?

Comments have been closed for this article

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