June 16, 2008
Posted: 10:49 AM ET

From
Obama campaigns in Flint, Michigan on Monday.
Obama campaigns in Flint, Michigan on Monday.

(CNN) — As Barack Obama took to the trail in Michigan on Monday, the state's Republican party released a web ad needling him over his decision not to campaign in Michigan during the Democratic primary season — a line of attack Hillary Clinton warned of throughout her own presidential bid.

"Why did you boycott Michigan for so long?," the web ad asks. "You stiffed our voters."

The nearly two-minute long video proceeds to highlight Obama's "bitter" comments from a San Francisco fundraiser earlier this year.

"You insulted our way of life," the ad says, displaying assorted images of hunters and churchgoers.

A blog post on the Michigan GOP's Web site said the ad was created "to remind Michigan voters that when they wanted to hear from Barack Obama, he took every opportunity to thumb his nose at them."

In her push to have the disputed Michigan and Florida delegations seated in full, Clinton regularly argued that in a general election, Republicans would hammer Obama for his reluctance to do the same.

"If the Democrats send a message that we don't care about your votes, I'm sure John McCain and the Republicans would be happy to have them," Clinton said at a campaign stop in Detroit in March. "In fact, the Republicans will argue that Michigan and Florida voters shouldn't trust the Democrats to look out for them when we wont even listen to you."

Obama removed his name from the primary ballot in Michigan last year, a decision that led to a long-running debate with Hillary Clinton's campaign over the how to fairly count the votes from that state's unsanctioned Democratic contest.

Clinton won the uncontested Michigan vote in January with 55 percent of the vote, beating out "Uncommitted," which netted 40 percent. Earlier this month, the Democratic National Committee voted to seat the full Michigan delegation with half a vote each, allocating 69 delegate votes to Clinton and 59 to Obama.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Michigan


jfs Memhis, Tn   June 16th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

I really think that the outcome of the Democratic Primary is rather irrevelent to the tasks that the Republicans have at hand. Really NONE of their business…………..They need to worry about how many people will be losing their jobs, homes to forclosure, and the price of oil TODAY ….and ….Tommorrow. They really do not need to be worrying about peolpes religion, or flag pins, etc. WE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT ISSUES !!! NOW GET WITH IT REPUBLICANS ….OR….You will lose in NOV !!!!

Abolish Electoral College Now!   June 16th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

The deck will always be stacked one way or another as long as this archaic system is in place.
There will never be a truly fair election until and unless every vote is counted. Winner take all states are Wrong wrong wrong. Unless it is the overall individual vote count total there is no legitimate winner.

listen up   June 16th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Obama supporters who try to bully people into voting their way….

Many of us vote on platform (Hillary's was the best of all 3) and on character (Hillary is a far better and more honest person than Obama) and pay very little attention to the packaging of the message.

Obama is a pretty messenger who easily fools many naive poeple who do not bother to question his hypocrisy and contradictions and dirty politics. Dig deeper folks and you will find no substance but just a pandering politician out for personal glory.

So Obama never rang true and never will and no amount of guilt-tripping about party loyalty will force our hand or our vote.

Ron, Knoxville, TN   June 16th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

How dumb can Hillary supporters be?
With statements like "I will never vote for Obama"

Sen. Clinton's ideas are vertually the same as Obama's, yet they turn their back on him because, the rich elitist woman lost. GET OVER IT …your a poor sport.
Support the candidate that is closer to Hillary's views. It is not McCain…it is Sen. Obama.

Besides, Hillary is a bold faced lier, and the extent of her experience, has been a 2 term wife of President, then 2 terms in the senate (which she only one because of her husbands resume)
Hillary, is not fit to be President and never was.
Sen. Obama, offers something that America has not had since Kennedy……A new perspective.
At water coolers around the country, we hear talk of "Something has to change" or "What can we do about it?"
The answer is elect someone who offers something different. Not the same OLD political garbage we have had the past 8 years.

Rick FL   June 16th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

The hypocrisy of the GOP here claiming, "You insult our way of life" is unbelievable. This is the same party that insulted our family values after showing us what a fallacy of a platform that was for too many of their members. It was another reason why I became a former Republican–now proudly for Obama, a man of decency.

Ted   June 16th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

To Crush Rush

Check your fax I know how you uneducated become "bitter" Out sourcing started with your beloved Bill Clinton and NAFTA. Second, once again you liberals and your unions drove the automotive out of Michigan with your union salarie. The automotive failed because of the union look it up.

Finally, if Obama says he is going to raise taxes on large corporations why would they want to come back. Here is Obama's plan um TAX,TAX,TAX. Nice, take from the rich and give to the poor.

Do you approve of socialism? If so vote Obama

Brenda of Saginaw ,Michigan   June 16th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

I live in Michigan ( as you can tell ), and yes Mr. Obama will win here. It is a known fact that he and the rest were told not to come to here and they kept their promise except Mrs. Clinton. He is here today and God bless him for that. It is better late then never.

Quinn   June 16th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

And now…THE TRUTH!

Both the DNC and the RNC gave Michigan the exact same penalty. If the DNC was wrong, then so was the RNC.

How crazy would you have to be to believe that Obama would shun the voters of Michigan on purpose? HE WAS TOLD THAT THE PRIMARY WAS NOT GOING TO COUNT. That is the only reason his name was not in the ballot.

I must admit, I am really sick of you people who are willing to tell outright LIES on this board in hopes that you can keep people ill-informed. You can't scare us away from Barack no matter how hard you try. John McCain will have to win based on his OWN merits…Not fearmongering!

For the last time, stop trying to pretend that all Hillary supporters are suicidal maniacs. Only a couple of nuts will actually vote for John McCain. He is NOT the answer to ANYTHING that women have been fighting for.

sandi   June 16th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Hey, rhurst,
The only popular vote that Hillary won was the one that her staff counted. The rest of the world, using real math, had Obama in the popular vote by about 3000. Besides it's over.

truth now   June 16th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Well now, let's see what the GOP has given us:

1. Record deficeits

2. The Iraq War with 2 BILLION DOLLAR A DAY costs.

3. A Warmonger for a President.

4. John McCain who called his wife the C-word as a candidate.

5. Gas at over $4.00 a gallon.

6. An Administration with scandal after scandal after scandal.

7. A Vice-President that shoots people.

8. An Administration that supports companies that take good
paying jobs away from Americans.

9. Ignorant voters that continue to support a party that takes jobs
from them.

10. Richest 2% of the country reaping hugh windfalls with tax
reductions, while the poor idiots keep supporting them.

11. Keeping the racial divides going so they can continue to screw
the very people who vote for them.

Dustin   June 16th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

There were no rules stating that Obama could not campaign in Michigan. There was no rule saying that he had to take his name off the ballot. He CHOSE to do so. It was a political move (and a smart one in getting him the nomination) but it will hurt him now in the general.

Hillary CHOSE to campaign there, and CHOSE to stay on the ballot even though at the time it looked like she'd get no delegates out of it. Gosh…who REALLY was the one who only cared about delegates and winning? Hm….maybe we made a mistake.

Undecided?

Dadedi   June 16th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I think it is insulting to black people who have fought so hard for this country to call them unpatriotic.

I hate that, with all the nasty things we have done to black people, they should be meek, humble and accept being mistreated. No human being can accept to be mistreated. That is why black people started to move towards liberation theology and they do that to this day. It is silly to call black people unpatriotic just because they have liberation theology. It is uncouth for anyone to question Barack Obama's patriotism because he did not author the laws of discrimination that have defined this country for quite a long time.

It is pathetic that to be American and patriotic, you have to vote against Martin Luther King like McCain did. It is pathetic that attending a black church makes you unpatriotic. I am ashamed of my country and some of the things it has done to black people. These things were never done in my name and I condemn them! But when I see my white brothers and sisters adding insult to injury by calling African American people unpatriotic, it makes my heart bleed. Being bigotted does not make you anymore American. Pathetic people!

Vicki   June 16th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I too am a Hillary supporter. I will not vote for Obama unless Hillary is on the ticket. I also will not support a candidate who does seem to comprehend that the war is most emphatically affecting our economy. Therefore I suggest to all a write in campaign to elect Hillary Rodman Clinton as the next President of this United States.

Teena   June 16th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Why do you blame Obama for this? The state officials are the ones who did this, not the Obama campaign. It's ridiculous to blame him for what other people did. If the people of Michigan and Florida really want change, change their local officials then. They are the ones who created the mess, not Barack Obama.

SMOQ   June 16th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

LOOK THE DNC MADE THIS ERROR A YEAR PLUS BEFORE THE PRIMARIES. NOT THE INDIVIDUAL CANDIDATES…ONE ONE DEM LEFT THEIR NAME ON THE BALLOT IN THIS STATE

Tammy - KCMO   June 16th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

It's becoming more obvious every day that the Republicans and McCain know they can't win the election based on issues so they are going back to attack ads and dirty politics to try to sway voters.

I have hope that most voters are sick of this style of politics and vote for Obama in November or at the very least a 3rd party candidate to show the Republicans that we've had enough.

Jay   June 16th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I have had enough of this Hillary supporters voting for McCain. GWB to us to war in a Arab nation, and the Muslims you hate have found a way to fight you by raising gas prices. So who is the fool now,
America, the Muslims have found a way to win this war. They know they can not fight us on the battle ground and win, so they have found the easiest way without fighting. So vote for McCain and the Muslims you hate so much will make you pay $20.00 at the pump.
I thought Americans were smart.

windrider   June 16th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

How like the Rovian mindset of the GOP to attack Obama for following the rules he agreed to, in writing, just like Clinton. Of course, Clinton changed her mind…and got the DNC to change its rules…and then whined about the outcome. People who believe this dribble were never going to vote for Obama anyway. As for the Clinton supporters deserting the Democratic Party in droves, it doesn't seem to be happening except for the very vocal minority who can keep a self-destructive grudge going as long as Jews and Arabs do.

Mark Anthony - Lake Elsinore, CA   June 16th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I just don't understand why people keep blaming Obama for this crap!!! Clinton, said herself the states should be punished until she needed them.

If anything she couldn't be trusted she flip flopped, Obama stayed true to his decisions. That's the type of President we need and honest true one.

shelly   June 16th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Such Hipocracy, the repbus stripped half there delegates from the state as well

Jerry   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

I am tire of Republican blaming th demoncratic party because of the votes didnt count it was the Republican party who changes the election day so blame the republican party. I want to know why did the Flrida and michigan let republican party determine when they going to hold the election

M.S. Indiana   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

And when did Obama make the rules ?? think some one else did…
And did the Gop itself not strip MI from half the delegates them self ???

So what real issue is this ?? like 100 more years in Iraq ?? gi bill to support our veterans and future veterans ?? what about the economy ?? people loosing their jobs and houses ??

same old thing from Obama   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Obama is just an expert liar…
He can do a complete turn about and just explain it away with some prepared speech.

This man is not presidential.

Mike in miami FL   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

I still have a hard time understanding how uneducated we are in this country. I live in Florida and the replublican controlled senat in the state of florida is to blame. they are one who moved up the primary date not the DNC. I beleive it is time we make elected official accountable for their actions specially those republicans whose don't beleive in the laws and will do whatever necessary for not counting the votes. It is 2000 all over with those republicans. The republicans have no moral value most still beleive the economy is doing fine. God helps us all !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Freddie, La   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

RNC did the same stripping MI of half their votes and gas is still over $4 a gal, and the economy still sucks. Thanks to Bush and McCain is the same…

Ephra   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

I AM A DEMOCRAT. and to all of those who keep thinking your right to vote was infringed upon during the dem. primaries. try reviewing the party's rules, don't blame Obama and/or his followers; don't you think is time to put a bit of blame on Hillary and her campaign machine? take responsibility your mistakes!! .
AND TO ALL THE REPUBLICANS OUT THERE, it's time to evolve.
The the nineteenth century happened a looooooooong time ago.
let the presidential candidates have a civilized competition.
let the best man win. NO TRICKS.

MD FOR OBAMA   June 16th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

To Forever for Hillary:

Do yourself a favor and cash in whatever pension/401 k/ or money in your grandchild's piggy bank and stuff it under your mattress. Cause if McCrap gets his clutches on the white house, that is all the money you will see until he leaves office.

Vote Obama or not at all!

artDEsign   June 16th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

We are in this mess because FLORIDA & MICHIGAN BROKE THE RULES! If people are looking to be angry at someone, how about the leaders of FLORIDA & MICHIGAN?? Besides, Hillary got the full vote in Florida, and was still ahead in Michigan after the decision. I'm thinking sour grapes for all the angry Hillary votes planning to vote GOP for spite and shame on the GOP operatives taking advantage of this rift blogging as 'disaffected Democrats'. BOTH groups are behaving very un-American.

loves it   June 16th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

GOP can't fool us this time. Obama will win with or without Michigan.
PUMA = poor uneducated miserable adults…..Don't think I'll join up.

forever for hillary - Its a free country…you should vote for whoever you want. Why act like its a big deal? NEWS FLASH…I get to vote for whoever I want to also. Nobody cares if you are a republican….

JJ   June 16th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

OK, Am I wrong in saying this ad is a farce? Obama didn't campaign in MI because he was following the rules of the party right? The RNC needs to get their facts straight. Stick to the issues!

Ian   June 16th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

So what, he stuck by his word. Good for him, actually.

Poison love   June 16th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Notice how Obama's response to everything questionable that he does is…"there was nothing illegal".

Maybe not illegal but plenty unethical- from eliminating all competition in Illinois, to destroying Hillary Clinton by playing the race card early on, to hiring lawyers to block the revote in Fl and Mi. That is not NEW politics of hope and change. That is politics at its dirtiest.

Now he will re-spin the scenario and call for unity and explain all his nasty, corrupt tactics away with a fancy lofty speech.

People wake up. This man is poison.

Reason   June 16th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Obamabots, for the love of God, stop blaming Hillary for your problems!

ITS YOUR OWN FAULT THE GOP AS FUEL AGAINST YOU!

Semps, Chicago   June 16th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

There is no doubt Obama will win Michigan because MCcain does not have an appealing ecomonic policy for the people of Michigan.

Jason   June 16th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Only if McCain veto every single beer, will I vote for him…

donna   June 16th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

That's just like the RNC to try to bring up OLD wounds and feed off people's fear and ignorance..they have to BEG FOR VOTES because they have VERY LITTLE CONFIDENCE In their own nominee…they don't want to talk about what THEY CAN do for people but instead focus on what they think Obama can NOT do…sad..but desperation brings out these sorts of things..and folks buy it!!!

Obama took his name off the ballot AFTER the REPUBLICAN governor allowed the MICHIGAN DNC to BREAK THE RULES..why should he spend the money/time to campaign somewhere where the vote wasn't suppose to count?

For all the Hillary supporters (to which I was one before she started playing dirty), she is OUT OF THE RACE..move on..if voting for McCain makes you feel better then by all means go for it but do not think for a minute that HE is better suited to run the country..he stands for EVERYTHING THAT HILLARY does not…so voting for him is a stab in her back..

White Independent   June 16th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

This is such bs. He didn't campaign there because he was told not to by the DNC. He would have gone there if their primary had been held when it was supposed to. They had a gentlemens agreement to remove their name from the ballot, unfortunately they forgot the former white house interior decorator wasn't a gentleman. Usual devisive politics of the past; you cant' beat him with actual facts or better policies so you just call names and try to cause fear and see what sticks. It didn't work in the primaries and it won't work in the general.

No McBush   June 16th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Vote McBush if you want to make the wealthy rich,rich,rich$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$.

If you work hard!
have small kids!
Kids!
Kids in or going on to Higher Education!
Are for Woman rights!
Are for equal rights!
Vote Obama

Von Bismark Vienna   June 16th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

DESPARATE TACTICS!

Radiance   June 16th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Fool me once- shame on you. Fool me twice- shame on me.

The Republicans think your a bunch of fools Michigan- you gonna prove them right?

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   June 16th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

I am not a PUMA Democrat. I prefer ADIDAS.

Obama will crush McCain, with or without the crybabiies votes.

Lynn   June 16th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Obama arrogance just keep on going. Unbelievable - Obama would have the nerve to show up in Michigan. He did not think the people of Michigan was important to leave his name on the ballot. Then he blocked (behind close doors) Michigan and Florida in having a revote. Then he said he could win without Florida. He must now realize he needs Michigan. Obama and the DNC is the reason I changed to an Independent. Oh my the way I'm sure before the Convention in August the Michigan and Florida full delegation will be restored. Disgusting!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mac in Nova Scotia   June 16th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

Hey all you Hillary and McCain bloggers. Go ahead and knock Obama, vote for McCain and I will sit here in Canada and watch you enjoy 4 more years of Bush politics.

Swiss in Canada   June 16th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

Still about Michigan and Florida? Still about Obama stealing Clintons nomination? HE DID NOT!!! she did not win!!!!! DO YOU UNDERSTAND? iiT IS NOT THAT HARD!!!!
Susan, Halifax

Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   June 16th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

THE OLD FOLKS OF MICHIGAN & OHIO BRINGING

A LOT OF SHAME & BACKWARDNESS TO THEIR

YOUNG PEOPLE ONCE AGAIN. THE YOUNG SHOULD

MAKE IT KNOWN BY THEIR VOTE THAT THEY DISAGREE.

Sharon - NC   June 16th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

I think the people in Michigan and Florida are much smarter than they are given credit for. They understand that all democratic candidates agreed to the rules set forth by their own national party committee, of which some members of the committee were high ranking officials in Hillary Clinton's campaign. Certain people just wanted to change the ruels when things didn't quite work out the way they wanted.

Do you honestly think that Obama, running for President, would intentionally do something to tick off a couple of states?

Come on people. If you want to vote for McCain, admit it, come to terms with it if you can, and do it if you think you can live with yourself, and quit using Florida and MIchigan and Hillary Clinton as excuses.

Susan in GA   June 16th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

More negative attacks by McCain. He is there now and what matters is a debate between McCain and Obama. Once the Michigan voters see the vast difference between same of the old and best of the new they will see Obama is actually looking out for them more than "Iraq for 100 years" and all the other filth that comes from the McCain side of things. This country will unite around the one leader who will gives us a change.

Obama 08′

forever for Hillary   June 16th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Boomer — you are wrong. Obama DID NOT STICK to the agreement pertaining to Florida and Michigan. He ran ads all over Florida during the primary. He broke the agreement and all bets are off once he did that. GET YOU FACTS STRAIGHT. You obama supporters are so blind to the truth him.

ATLian   June 16th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Hillary brought this on the Democratic party with all her posturing. She did NOT win the popular vote, nor the pledged delegate vote without a whole of if, and , and or's thrown in. She has given the Rethugs all they need to go after Obama.

True dictator of the people   June 16th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

No matter what Obama says, no matter how many times he re-adjusts what he says, and no matter how he rationalizes what he actually meant… the adoring followers of this hypocritical, lying , pandering sleazy politician just accept it without any question.

The hatred he inspires in his followers, against fellow Americans and the blind loyalty from his worshipping following is sufficient reason to be wary.

It reminds me of Italy and Germany in the 1930s and how the youth fell for their inspirational speakers promising a return to former greatness. The Hype of Hope and the politics of hate and division are not new.

Vote for Obama if you want a socialist regime where all opposition and criticism is silenced. Already his brainwashed youth are marching to whatever tune Obama currently sings and everyone else who disagrees or questions is met with derision and insults.

georgia   June 16th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

GOP grasping @ straws already ! Tsk,tsk ,tsk.
Shows us how weak even they feel McSame is !

I'mnamingmysonbarackobama   June 16th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Here we go again!!! Desperate, hypocritical Republicans putting up smoke screens, dragging red-herrings…you know, standard GOP modus operandi. Anything to avoid the real issues: the destitute state of our economy that they created after a record time of surplus during the Clinton years, frayed international relations, and this fine mess Bubbyah got us into in Iraq (for which there are no easy answers). I can just imagine the fun they're going to have when Obama is president, watching him try to undo the mess that war-criminal Bush has done over there. For the life of me, I can't understand how Clinton lies about a blow-job and he gets impeached; Bush lies and we lose the lives of 4,000 soldiers, 1 million Iraqis, lose hundreds of billions of dollars and we Americans re-elect him and kill the fatted calf! What gives, people?!

Keep it simple, people:
1. The DNC made the rules.
2. BO followed the rules.
3. We don't punish, vilify, or lie on those who follow the rules.
3. Got a problem? Deal with the DNC—-BEFORE THE PRIMARIES–
** If Michigan or Florida voters had a problem with the way their states were handling things, they should have taken issue with the DNC before the primaries. Let's not let stupidity ruin us four more years.

debra   June 16th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Gee and I thought that Michigan and Florida had record turnouts! Not only that, but Obama got to count Edwards votes as his in Michigan and he still didn't win that state.

Jason   June 16th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Don't vote for GOP and GGP!
GGP = Great Grand Pa.

AJ   June 16th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Hillary Clinton was absolutely right; Obama doesnt care about the VOTERS in Michigan or Florida. He rightly thought he wouldn’t have to worry about them as the delegates weren’t going to count. And when it came time to stand up and do the right thing and demand that the Michigan and Florida delegates be counted, Obama chose instead to disenfranchise the voters of those two states and fight against having those delegates seated. Doing the right thing was less important than winning. This shows a lack of character. On top of that, the Obama camp has just told the voters in Florida and Ohio that their votes don’t matter, that he can win without them. This again shows that Obama is a man of no substance. It's awful that the choice is between Obama and Senator McCain. Which one is worse?

Independent-woman-4-Obama   June 16th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

TO JONATHAN FROM CT:

DUDE, Sen. Obama DID NOT REMOVE HIS NAME FROM THE MI PRIMARY TO "PUNISH HIS PARTY"………. GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT!

HIS NAME WAS NOT ON THE BALLOT, BECAUSE……. he was following the RULES THE DNC made!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here comes the ONLY THING THAT THE REPUBLICANS ARE GOOD AT……. ATTACKING!

58 old white ladies for OBAMA   June 16th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

SOME FOLKS JUST NOT READY TO BRAKE WITH OUR

HATEFUL, HYPOCRITICAL & SHAMEFUL PAST, FOLKS.

OBAMA CAN GET US OUT OF THE CRAP, THE GUY

MICHIGAN & OHIO VOTED INTO OFFICE, GOT US INTO.

Democrat for Life   June 16th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Democrats please beware!
Many republicans are posing on line as democrats to keep our party divided. Don't let them do that to us. We must win. I would never hurt myself (nor my pocket book) just to prove a point. We have all the support we need in order to win this election. Stay focused!!!!

Democrat 08

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   June 16th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Bush thinks the way we solve this problem is to invade Mexico!

Progressive   June 16th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Cheryl L. Swaim - "Poor millionaire Obama."

This is what you have to contribute to this blog? Obama is worth 1.3 million dollars, and most of that is from his books, which he pretty much wrote himself, and are phenomenal. I won't get into how much McCain and Clinton are worth, and who knows where their money came from.

On another note, for the individuals who are unable to be accountable, and love pointing fingers…. Obama merely abided by the rules the DNC put forth, and when Michigan decided to get trigger happy, and move up their contest, the primary became a moot point. Not sure where you get that Obama "stole" the election from Michigan. Sounds like sore losers to me.

Sweden   June 16th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

"Obama will never win over enough of Hillarys supporters to win in Novemeber. Go ahead and talk down to us and call us names Obamas clan. Your "King" is still not going to win."

whatever that makes sleep in the night.
end of the day is you americans who will suffer…while we in europe is getting more bread…US are heading downwards…

if this was western-europe we all know who would win… and it aint Mcwhatever his name is…

NickNas   June 16th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

It is Funny that CNN Posts SOOOO Many of these So Called PUMA Whiners post that say the SAME THING OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER AND OVER…………..

But so very few Positive Posts. This is the ONLY Blog of ANY major " News" Source that pushes them so hard on us with Obvious Bias.

CNN Your Pro Hillary and Anti Obama Stance has been clear fro quite some time now but you are getting well past UN- Professional now.

There is a reason why Tim Russert was so respected. Don't you people get it??

Cheryl   June 16th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Asian$Hillary

You are badly mistaken. You forget her supporters are dems before Hillary. They will not leave the party because of Hillary. Just Like Hillary Rosen said it best. I am a DEM before I am a Hillary Supporter

After further review,Texas.   June 16th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Yes even Limbaugh knows its over, but wants to keep the hate going so he can get fatter off his t-shirt buying pinheads.He will eat his steaks while his followers eat dog food.I love every day now that their end is in sight.

Olivia   June 16th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

You Obama supporters are still picking on Hillary even when she is not running anymore. Now you are blaming her for stupid things Obama have done.

Obama is not the perfect candidate. He has dissed many people, like in Michigan and Fl by ignoring them; now his campaign feels he doesn't need Ohio and Fl and probably MI to be president.

Is he planning on blowing Mccain out of the picture, like he tried to blow Hillary out by overspending peoples' hard earned cash on ads?
1..2..3..4..5…times to 1 sometimes! This guy should be far far ahead of McCain but he is not. How much more money is it going to take to buy the presidency?

Bad choice, DNC. Pity you had to try to destroy the only real viable candidate you had just because she's a woman and not handpicked by the activists in the party.

Still waiting to hear why the Rezco verdict came a say after the nomination and why no further whisper about it since then.

ladymary   June 16th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

RHURST..Give it up already. Hillary LOST in everything..nothing was stolen from her. Her popular vote count disenfranchises all those voters in cacus states yet she screams about voters in MI & FL and we must count all their votes. When will you Clinton supporters stop believing the excuses and realize she ran a bad campaign and she LOST!!!!!!!!!!!!!

David, AZ   June 16th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Shocking that good ol' Hillary and her surrogates gave the republicans all of there amunition and talking points………….she broke the Jeramia Wright story, the "bitter" comments, the Obama is snubbing Michigan comments, her surrogates spread the Obama is a muslim rumor, the rumor that his wife used the word "whitey" in a speech……….everything the RNC has is curtesy of HRC. They should throw her and her husband out with the dirty laundry.

No McBush   June 16th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Voters should be made at there State officials for breaking the rules. My mom always taught me to play by the rules, and if you break them, that is cheating!!!

This is the UNITED!!! STATES OF AMERICA, not MI or FL UNITED!!!

CitizenAJ   June 16th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Hey forever for Hilary,

Question, which of the two candidates remaining is closer to Senator Clinton's stance on issues and vision for the country? Senator McCain or Senator Obama. When you answer this question honestly, tell me why you are going against what she stands for and fought hard for? I would really like to know that from all of the former Senator Clinton supporters but not Senator McCain supporters.

As a wise man told me once, you often regret decisions based on emotional not fact and sound judgment.

Cheryl   June 16th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Obama was correct. He was not trying to use Michigan or Florida to win the election. He was right to allow the states to decide what they wanted to do themselves

Hillary Supporter   June 16th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Michigan for Obama June 16th, 2008 10:59 am ET

Does the GOP know what the issues are…

1. Economy
2. Economy
3. Economy
4. Economy
5. Economy
6. Economy
…. and on and on.

But those GOP fools they can keep decieving people with their nonsense every election. Please, let McShame tell Michigan how he will restore our economy. Let McBush tell us how he will fund the 100 years war since we know Cindy has only 100 mil and we need 10 billion a month.

Sherri   June 16th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Such sad nonesense. It is almost laughable. All the major Democratic candidates agreed to NOT campaign in Michigan after they brazenly broke the rules. Hillary broke her word and now the GOP is just plainly pandering. The Republicans pushed to break the rules of the primary season in the first place.

Do you value a woman's right to reproductive choice? Vote Obama
Do you want the war to end? Vote Obama
Do you want clear economic analysis and plan? Vote Obama
Do you want health care for all Americans? Vote Obama
Do you want to repair the education system? Vote Obama

Who is What?   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Obama's not campained in Michigan due to practicalities only. He had to secure victory in states whose delegates would vote in the D meeting. Having made that, he'll dedicate quality time for Michigan, of course.

leon   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

What Obama was supposed to do was to allow a revote which he blocked as part of his strategy to prevent Hillary from gaining the votes and delegates again in a second primary. By blocking the revote Obama showed that he did not care for the will of the people in FL and MI that is the real story.

Obama has proven to be an agent of change but the only things he changes is his positions. he says one thing today and tomorrow he changes his positions based on the audience.

he is one more corrupted politician from the school of Chicago.

RRO   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

The Candidates agreed not to campaign in Michigan, but the simple fact is Hillary realized that it would seriously hurt them in the general. Especially when Mitt Romney went and campaigned there so strongly on the economy.

Michigan is a perfect example of how Hillary could help Obama in the election. She could go to Michigan and say, I did not ignor you, I care about your future and I will share those views with President Obama.

Obama needed to snub Florida and Michigan in order to keep there votes from giving Hillary the momentum she needed. But now he has to pay a price for political expediency.

The simple fact is though with a little bit of work Obama will win Michigan because they know what they have gotten after 8 years of Republican rule….nothing.

Anonymous   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

If I were in MI I would be more worried about my job and this wonderful economy. Nah, go ahead and tell me how you got cheated. Go ahead and vote for 4 more years of the same. Don't forget to oil your bike chain.

ME   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

This is such a non-issue. Why waste your time? Why am I wasting my time? The GOP are fighting windmills because they can't find real issues to go after.

SHIRLEY-OHIO   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Way to go Abby.

like Hitler youth   June 16th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Obama inspires blind loyalty in his worshippers without any objective scrutiny or rational thinking - just like all the great dictators before him.

The youth view Obama as God's gift… and forget to evaluate him by the same measures as they judge any other man.

Too scary for a vote.

Never Obama.

David Goldman for OBAMA   June 16th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

MICHIGAN & OHIO SHOULD MAKE IT A POINT OF LETTING

THE GOP & OBAMA KNOW THAT THEY WILL NOT VOTE

FOR A GERIATRIC VERSION OF GEORGE BUSH. BOTH

ARE GIVING THEMSELVES A HISTORY THEIR CHILDREN

& GRAND CHILDREN, FOR CERTAIN, WILL BE ASHAMED OF,

NOT VOTING FOR A MAN BECAUSE OF THE COLOR OF HIS

SKIN, DURING A TIME WHEN ALL OF THAT SHOULD BE

OUR SHAMEFUL & HUMILIATING PAST. LET AMERICA TRULY

LEAD THE WORLD & BE WHO WE SAY WE ARE.

debra   June 16th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Any reasonable Democrate should have cared if the Michigan and Florida votes were counted. It is too late to change anything now. Obama will just have to live with his poor judgement now. The Republicans have a valid point.

Ron, Knoxville, TN   June 16th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

One thing is emerging in this campaign, thus far. That is, the fact that John McCain's campaign will be focused on what Sen. Obama is doing wrong. Instead of what he (Sen. McCain) can do right. It is obvious to me that the only way John McCain can win is to "trash" talk his opponent. If Sen. McCain wants my vote he will have to step up and give us something that he believes in. Not just condemn Sen. Obama's actions, I hope that Americans are more intelligent than that.

Ding, Washington, DC   June 16th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Gop are either far remove from the reality that is facing the nation or are uterly ignorant. How soon GOP forgot that it was due to the rule of law that made mr. Bush president in the first place. Now, GOP thinks obeying the rules that gave them the White House is a bad idea. Couldn't be more pathetic, desperate, and naive. Unless GOP stop relying on high school drop out such as K. Rove, Sean Hannity, and several other idiots for ideas, it is not going to be same as 2000 or 2004 for that matter. Why didn't GOP seat all FL delegates? Talk about a double standard!.

carol   June 16th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

why do you always blame Barack on everything that happens.You all just dont want a black man as president. I dont understand…. You want people to abide by the rules and when they do you still have something to complain about . Cindy Lou and McCain too needs to get a rocking chair and chill out give someone who know what he is doing to make a impact on this country

Chris   June 16th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

This is the kind of thing the GOP has to do. They have no chance with the American people if the discussion is about their record or ideas for the future.

Obama represents so much more than just himself. We have a chance to come together and strengthen our nation. John McCain motivates no one. We continue the downward spiral if he is elected president.

Obama08!, but not for him for us.

Mary   June 16th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

GOP = FEAR Card!!! LOL!!!!

SHIRLEY-OHIO   June 16th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

How low will you go, can you go down low, all the way to the floor. All this negative campagining did not help Hillary and it will not help John McCane, if anything, it is going to hurt him. You cares about anything but the issues. Stay on issue. What will you do to change America? No body cares who campagined where it is just a bunch of same old politics that people are soooooooooooooooooo tired of. America is smarter than these smear campagines, they do not fall for them anymore. Get a lift Republican Party because apparenty you do not have one.

CitizenAJ   June 16th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

The GOP attack machine. Instead of focusing on a message to address the countries ills, they focus on slandering and throwing mud at their opponent. The sad part about it is that people fall for it. This is how this once great republic got a George Bush twice.

The state of Michigan violated rules that had been worked out over a year and now it is the candidates fault for not campaigning in a state who's primary did not count initially.

Hey GOP, campaign on the issues. What is your stance on healthcare, the environment, oil dependence, education, affordable higher education, affordable housing, and the economy. I hear you talking about everything else, Iraq, flag pins, and misinterpreted statements but what about the issues facing regular, average, hard working Americans?

Rudy NYC   June 16th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Genuine Clinton supporters should know that it was Clinton political supporters who engineered the date change. They were all super delegates. Recall Sen. Levin at that Saturday meeting?

Artificial Clinton supporters should know that the GOP has the same rules as the DNC, and applied the same penalty to Michigan, and Florida, in 2007. You will not see one GOP add faulting the DNC for their decision to grant half votes to a full delegation.

BirdyBee   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Obama never "infringed" upon anyone's "right to vote"–get a clue before you post inane comments. Anyone who claims they will vote for McCain because Hillary lost is one thing and one thing only, A TOTAL RACIST.

Angela Frazier, Memphis TN   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Actually Robert Barga, it was Hillary Clinton who said that the votes of the people of Michigan wouldn't count…

enomisa   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

I am so sick and tired of all the Obama hypocrisy:

The Clintons were racist, to secure the black vote in SC….but then Rev. Wright was just exercising free speech.

Obama is the "uniter" and Hill was the polarizing one- But in reality no one has ever divided the democratic party along racial, income, education, age and gender lines the way the great Obama has.

Obama just inspires his followers to a whole lot of hatred and division.

Ken   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

I hate saying this but Obama will not be able to win in Michigan, nor the election without Hillary Clinton on the same ticket!

Obama is dreaming again! Just like his speech, "All talk and no action"

Obama/Clinton 2008

TESAP   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

The only person that stiffed the Michigan voters was Clinton. Clinton and Michigan broke the rules and they were punished for it…GET OVER IT…..

Honestly   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Again, thank you Hillary Clinton!

When Clinton realized she had no path to the nomination her entire strategy turned to attacking Obama to destroy his chances against McCain…

Michigan and Florida broke the rules = plain and simple. Illegal elections should NOT count - it would be the same if a few states decided to hold elections in October instead of November this fall - it wouldn't be deemed legal…

The GOP cannot defend it's failed policies, so all they've got left is personal attacks against Obama…

We have a precious opportunity this election - we have the chance to really change direction and try to solve our nation's problems…

What does McCain offer?

More tax breaks for the rich.
A gas tax holiday that will do NOTHING to solve our energy problems.
Supreme court appointees who could vote to overturn Roe Vs. Wade.
A protectorate in Iraq where our troops continue to be in harm's way.
And a cowardly dipomatic policy that fails to confront rogue nations…

I'm casting my vote for Barack Obama, thank you!

terri   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Why weren't MI and FL protesting prior to the primary since they knew way ahead of time their vote would not be counted. Why did they not hold their elected representatives accountable this is the problem with politics blame everyone else and take no personal responsibilty (State of MI, FL and their voters)

Johnny Q   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

June 16th, 2008 9:14 am ET

"Come to the edge," he said.

They say, "We're afraid."

"COme to the edge," he said.

They came and he pushed them. . .

And they fell like a stone.

So long sucker!

greg in CA   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Obama has no idea the way that politics work. He is seriously going to get clobbered by the GOP. Why in the world would the democratic party try to put an ultra-liberal in office- rather than someone who is closer to the middle where most folks can relate. When people go to the polls, they have two choices. America does not identify with ultra liberals… so Obama goes down in flames.
Sorry democrats… you are not smart enough to win the presidency.

Charlie   June 16th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

I am so happy Obama and Hillary Bickered !!!

I am also grateful that Obama won the Primary !!

Mccain has a good chance of winning now !

Mccain 2008 ->2016
May John Mccain go from strength to strength and live to 120

Anonymous   June 16th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

He removed his name from the ballot…because the dnc decided that that election will not count…..Poor republicans !!! He will not remove his name in november….do not worry about that …stupid republicans…negatives ads will not hep you to win these elctions.americans are really fed up with your politics

Kelby from Houston, TX   June 16th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

My message to the GOP and their attempts to derail the Obama campaign to The Oval Office. BRING IT ON!
We all know why Obama did not campaign in Michigan. I do believe he will campaign there now.
John McCain is a lamb to the slaughter. He's talking like he has a chance of winning, but her is really dumb.
He is also a flip flopper.
Obama is going win the presidency and the other half of the Senate will go to the Democrats.

THERE WILL BE NO MORE TOTAL REPUBLICAN RULE!

OBAMA '08 DEMOCRATS '08 & FOREVER

Asian4Hillary   June 16th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

McCain will be the next President, many of us Hillary supporters will rain McCain with our votes. NOBAMA has nothing to offer this country but WORDS, plain bloody WORDS. NOBAMA doesn't need Michigan, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia.

PUMA DEMOCRAT.

Annette   June 16th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Please stop the drama….GOP. Clinton did not win Florida or Michigan let's be real. She kept her name on the ballot. How can you win a contest that was not recognize or competitive?

forever for Hillary   June 16th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

To all of you obama supporters,
There are a large number of Hillary supporters that will never vote for obama. You had better get used to the idea. I am one of those individuals and I can also tell you that about 95 percent of all those individuals that I know who were supporting Hillary are also as adamant about not voting for obama in November. No - we will not come together in the fall to support what, A liar who stated daily that he is different and does not take money for lobbyists, blah, blah, blah. He is an absolute disgrace to the democrat party. In my 32 years as a registered and voting democrat, I have never voted for the republican presidential candidate, but that will change come this November. My vote will be for McCain. I will not vote for any democrat that has absolutely no morals. He has taken and continues to take money from lobbyists along with him having several lobbyists running his campaign.

For heaven sakes — obama supporters wake up! Know the facts about who and what you are supporting. Obama is selling snake oil.

Generation X   June 16th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Operation Chaos = PUMA (Poor uneducated miserable adults). Group members; fred, Jan FL, Brian TN, Jim PA, Staunch Clinton Supporters, Charlotte, Belle 1, and Karen FL. These people go from website to website blogging as Hillary supporters voting against Obama. Don't be fool, Obama won the nominee for the Democratic Party. GUESS WHAT REPUBLICANS………NOT THIS TIME….lmao

Ed   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

You reap what you sow. Karma's a rhymes-with-witch, ain't it, Barry?

California Voter   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Obama's camp did every thing they could to make sure that Michigan and Florida's voters were not counted at all. Frankly, if I were a voter in either state I would not support him period. He has never been asked by the press and never has volunteered to fully explain why he attended a black liberation church run by an angry and racist pastor for 20 years and never blinked an eye. Even Oprah left because of the Rev. Wright's inflammatory remarks. Why did Obama stay? Makes one question his judgment, his honesty, and his core values. Are his core values "a non-negotiable commitment to Africa?" We must as ourselves can he represent the United States while supporting these kinds of values????

Grady in Portland, OR   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

He plays by the rules. Clearly not cut out to lead out government.

Crush Rush   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Typical Republican tactics.It wont work.The people of Michigan are hard working Americans looking for better jobs that were outsourced by Republicans.They want their sons and daughters home from the bottomless money pit war.Nice try dittoheads.Obama in a landslide,its in the bank.

Michelle   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Personally, I think a revote was the best answer to Florida and Michigan.

However, Obama BLOCKED REVOTING. (He knew he would lose.)

Those of you who think Obama is about change, please check out CNN's investigative report "Barack Obama Plays Dirty."
You can find it on Youtube by searching "Dirty Barack Obama."
Or, search CNN's site.

Obama made sure he ran unopposed for the Illinois Senate.
He made sure his MENTOR was kicked off.

Please, you owe it to yourself to know the real Barack Obama.
He is a dirty politician. CNN's report will prove it to you.

Rave   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

It must be Hillary who wrote the script for this attack..
She is still CHEAP. Good, we dont see her anymore on TV.
McCain is nothing but Dumb and Funny.. so it's not so annoying. Just keep laughing at what he says, have fun, crack some jokes and Vote for Obama in Nov 2008.
OBAMA (2008 -16)

Straight Talk Mich. Folks   June 16th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Hi Ladies in Mich., GOP is currently giving you negative Ad about Sen Obama which you know deep down in your heart that is phony! Well my question is will you prefer this guy Sen. McCain who does not value a woman more by calling her a "C…" to a guy that respects you but does not look like you which is the only reason why you tend to believe all the lies that you are being fed about him? Do you want to risk having your loved one drafted for another war, or your loved one(s) currently serving to continue indefinitely? Do you really prefer to have the US economy continue in this negative direction? If your answer is yes to any of the above or all, please continue with your blind love for falsehood/denial! I wish you all the very best! You have an option and the choice is yours, don't say you never knew!

JohnLee   June 16th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Again McBush has nothing to run on so the only thing he can do is inflict pain and fear in the minds of voters. And that's what we want running the country for the next 4 years?

Bill, Florida   June 16th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

What can I say? We told you so.

Hillary '12

Proud American   June 16th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Obama never boycotted Michigan. He and all of the Democrats were told not to go there because Michigan chose not to play by the rules.
Republicans get your info correct.

NELSON Colorado Springs, Co   June 16th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Sen Obama knows every American vote count. Remember the Domocrat Primary date in Michigan and Florida was move up in violation of the Domocrat Party rule and was penalized Sen Hillary agreed at the start but at the end the president race, only then, (when she was losing, the people vote in Michigan and Florida she needed to stay in the race). Please give it a break. SHE LOST get over it move on. (Remember every vote count came from Mr Huckabee a good man), Sen Clinton only started saying this, only she was losing ,move on.

New Yorker   June 16th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

G-
I'll make this real simple, the intelligence was wrong. Bush followed the rules of UN Resolution. 1441
The democrats in Congress who had the same intelligence approved the war.

Obama can talk to Osama or anyone else he wants, but not as President. The President of the US can't be an apologist.

We don't want another empty negotiation like the one between Clinton and Kim Jong-il in 1994. Terrorists are like that- their BIG LIARS.

I hope that was simple enough for YOU.

McCain 08

BirdyBee   June 16th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

You people are all ridiculous. Give me a break. Michigan broke the rules, they knew the consequences, they asked for it. You are truly grasping at straws trying to blame their bad decisions, leading to a FLAWED primary, on Obama. He is a much better person than any of you will ever be.

Bitter - New Orleans, LA   June 16th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

You do realise that the RNC moving up its date has absolutely nothing to do with the DNC…they are separate entities and many states have different voting dates between the two parties.

The elephant in the room   June 16th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

America deserves McCain and I am sure he'll deliver twice the damage as Bush. Thats what we did with Bush when he hit us upside our head. Thank you may I have another. This country is in no way ready to elevate their minds and change the world for the better with Barack. I dont want to hear anyone crying when things continue to get worse because they definitely will.

Greg   June 16th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Absurd.

Ed, Santa Fe NM   June 16th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

It was the DNC, not Obama…. the GOP is a shameless, lying group and specializes in innuendo and smear….

I hope I never see another GOP president (even one actually elected) in my lifetime. Does the GOP really want to bring up the topic of election irregularities after the cheating Florida 2000 vote?

Unshrub   June 16th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Pathetic. WHy would anyone want to vote for someone getting that desperate?

NickSanDiego   June 16th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Since when is it the GOPs Business how WE Choose our Candidate?? Just because they didn't get to run against the one they were prepared for and thought they could beat now they whine about this so they can try to divide our Party??

From what I Read The GOP has MUCH more to woory about since so many of ITS members are refusing to support McBush!!

Erica of GA   June 16th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Let all of the "bitter" Hillary voters keep talking about how the DNC and Barack Obama disinfrancised Mi and Fl voters. It was Mi and Fl leaders that CHOOSE to break the rules and hold primaries early. I am so sick of hearing the same mess over and over. How about Mi and Fl voters direct their anger at those who actually caused all of this chaos, their own elected officials. I've never heard so many "adults" complain about someone following the rules. And to the one saying that it was stolen from Hillary, then he should have disinfrancised the whole country because wasn't she suppose to win all states from the beginning?

Jackie   June 16th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I'm with you rhurst.

martin   June 16th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

this is all hillarys fault.she'll never have a place in obama's administration,and we dont need her ,so hillary supporters can vote mcsame if they want.nobody likes them,anyway.

tj   June 16th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

This is just the beginning of the wave of goofups that the GOP have to use against Obama. Obama did turn his back on MI voters and he did everything possible to block their re-vote. Obama is arrogant and don't deserve MI votes because the way he treated them.

pc   June 16th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

MCCain claims he wants to take the high road in this campaign but look at this nasty ad. The Republicans will glom on to any non-issue they can find in order to smear Obama. Republicans know they can't win on the issues, so they resort to petty little atracks like this.

Phil Newton Murphy, Oregon   June 16th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Amazing. The G.O.P. , the Party of vote suppression, pathetically tries to paint Obama as ignoring Michigan voters. Sick and desperate.

GOP = Get Out of the Polls

Ted   June 16th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

To all those people who attack Obama because their woman lost-relax! He's not McCain, and any self-respecting Hillary backer will realize that the right to choose and the improvement of the economy is more important than petty revenge. Of course he's getting attacked, but in the RCP average he's up by 3% against McCain. Flawed candidate?

Give it a rest. Seriously. In the end, I hope you come round and vote Obama.

Not sleeping at the switch   June 16th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

HEY GOP!!!!

The Dems in that state have already settled this issue , don't you watch the news?? LOL

D_I_S_T_R_A_C_T_I_O_N T_A_C_T_I_C_S

If the Dem Candidate walked and talked like Frankenstien and had MULTIPLE GAFFS per week we would want to change the subject too.

A Democrat in November - No McBush   June 16th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Barack Obama isn't to blame for the mess in Michigan. He followed and honored the rules of the DNC.

As a Michigan voter, I know full well where to put the responsibility for the events in Michigan and they do not fall on Baracks shoulders.

The RNC seems to forget that they too broke party rules and their candidates followed their rules and didn't campaign here either.

Stop speaking for me and the people I live with. It is obvious that you have a problem with Barack Obama if this is the only thing you can criticize him for;

Following the rules.

Carol Burrow
Lansing, MI

KJ, CA   June 16th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Wow, GOP trying to twist and turn the facts here more than just a bit - - - maybe to take attention off of the real issues.

What happened in Michigan was a decision of the Democratic party of Michigan - Barack Obama had nothing to do with it and was just following the rules laid down by the DNC. The only ones that the voters of Michigan have to be upset with is their local Democratic party, not Barack Obama.

Bayousara   June 16th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Still waiting for Obama to "speak to me," a 66 yr old retired white woman who voted for Hillary and who is now an Independent.

He is talking to everyone else about everything else. Just isn't reaching me out here in the river in So. Oregon.

Think I'll go fishin.

JR   June 16th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Rules are Rules. Obama followed the rules. Everyone in Michigan and Florida can only be angry at their own state for silencing their vote. All of the states agreed to the DNC rules regarding when to hold primariers, all of the states knew how they would be affected, yet they still broke the rules anyway.

For an analogy: There are rules in sports, and if they are broken, you pay the price, all of your whining and complaining does nothign but get you ejected and fined from the game.

If anything, he is more trustwhorthy than anyone in this situation, since he followed the rules.

voter   June 16th, 2008 11:59 am ET

you joking. this coming from the RNC who cannot run an election in fl. first, they did not count all of the votes in fl in 2000. this year they illegally moved up the primary which cost fl to strip the delegates by 50%. if the rnc cares so much about voters rights, then why don't they count all of the votes and reinstate fl and mi votes 100%. stop pandering. you disenfranchise voters and then cry wolf on Obama. How dare you? your pandering and lies stop as of now. we will not fall for it this time.

Gary in NJ   June 16th, 2008 11:59 am ET

rhurst — Hilary won the popular vote? So what. Everyone knows its delegates that count. If you add up the votes that Obama, Edwards, Kucinich, Biden, and the other democratic candidates received, more people voted against her than for her. There were at least four caucuses that Obama won where there was no popular vote to count - just estimates. One of Hillary's bigger wins was from Puerto Rico - a commonwealth that can't vote in the general election. The DNC approved SC, Nevada, and another state moving up their primaries but not Michigan and Florida - and thus they faced the penalty. In January Hillary acknowledged the DNC ruling and regarding Michigan and Florida said "their votes won't count". The states were punished, but Obama still won the pledged delegate count. The superdelegates - a portion of whom are her fellow Congresspeople - backed Obama when its their job to pick the best candidate. Now Hillary voters have three choices: 1) back the candidate who supports Hillary's platform (Obama); 2) back the candidate that opposes Hillary's platform and women's rights (McCain); or 3) vote for an independent candidate/write-in Hillary/stay home.

jj   June 16th, 2008 11:58 am ET

BUT HE DIDN'T WANT OUR VOTES TO COUNT BECAUSE THEN HE WOULD HAVE LOST, HE HAD HIS LAWYERS FIND REASONS FOR OUR VOTES NOT TO COUNT AND IT WAS THE DEMS IN MI, WE HAVE A DEM CONGRESS, WHO MOVED OUR DATE. What amazes me is that MI and FL moved their dates because our states are the hardest hit in this economy. They say unemployment is at 5.5 now, oh well, MI has been at over 7 for almost a yearm, which is why we wanted a voice. Look at the FEW who voted in IOWA and the many who voted in MI, tell me, which is fairer?? Fed up completely with this DEM party. if they are going to pick someone and not care about the voters, then do it earlier so we don't have to put up with all this Poop for so long. Independant going from Dem leaning to Rep. leaning this year. I'll vote dem for congress but not for President. I want experience in there now.

NickNas   June 16th, 2008 11:58 am ET

LOL The GOP is so weak they have to try and re-tread all of Hillarys tricks??? This election is going to be almost comical.

Are people so ignorant that don't see these Political HACKS are not running for Office on what they can do for them but trying to win by simply making this about " YEA LETS HATE THEM"? Can people REALLY fall for this? Never have to talk about what is wrong in this country just try and turn us all against eachother???

Only the weakest minds fall for this BS and lets hope they are few.

RIF   June 16th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Sut up fake Hillary supporterrs! Hillary did not campaign in MI and FL either so the GOP would have run the same lines on her. Her name was on the ballot but she didn't campaign. People in MI undersatnd that it was 100% DNC and Obama had nothing to do with the falwed MI election no more than Hillary, Edwards, and every other candidate that agreeed with the DNC ruling of not counting MI & FL. The ONLY reason why Hillary started to care about these states is when she was trailing and it was her only possible path.

Also, please stop the flawed thinking of voting for McCain this year so Hillary canwin in 2012. That's the stupidiest thing I've heard not to mention that she wouldneed Obama's 18 million plus supporters in 2012 just like he needs hers this year. Anyway. 15 million of her voters are now backing Obama because he is a democrat that shares her views. Its the 2 million or so idiots that are going to cut off their noses to spite there face. I'm sure by November that number will be far less.

???   June 16th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Tony, NYC
June 16th, 2008 11:22 am ET

"Obama will never win over enough of Hillarys supporters to win in Novemeber. Go ahead and talk down to us and call us names Obamas clan. Your "King" is still not going to win."

And your queen Hillary will get NO votes from Obama supporters in 2012 if that happens, so go ahead and shove that threat where the sun don't shine.

Independent   June 16th, 2008 11:58 am ET

I love the spins in the comments. Can anyone really think for themselves or does everything have to be talking points ?

Susan   June 16th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Another attempt to deny the fact that theRepublicans are responsible for the Mess America is in. They can ncaver campaign on the issues, they just try to phoney up some excuse. By the way, didn't the RNC strip Mi of half it's delegates. Do you think people will forget? Not this time, Never Again! OBAMA )*

MD   June 16th, 2008 11:57 am ET

Obama dissed Michigan during the primaries and gave a "wink & a nod" to the Canadians after he said he would revisit NAFTA.

Attention Michiganders, Obama is going to lead you further into misery.

Ludovic   June 16th, 2008 11:56 am ET

Obviously Barrak Obama will have to deal with HRC legacy all over this campain
Thanks Hillary !!!!

Women for Obama   June 16th, 2008 11:56 am ET

For the 1000th time, all of the candidates agreed to remove their names from MI ballots…and signed a document saying so. Sen. Clinton changed her mind and added hers. It was per the direction of the DNC. Hillary Clinton only became obsessed with votes from MI and FL when her campaign started going south (aka: after Super Tuesday).

MelissaMinneapolis   June 16th, 2008 11:56 am ET

The RNC is a huge group of hypocrites considering they did the very same thing. Also, what sane, logical person would campaign in a place where they were told nothing would count?

MD   June 16th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Republicans can say what they want. The problem with Republicans is that they think people are stupid. They think because Rove pulled wool over people's eyes, McCain can too. Not so. Not this time.

So let the Republicans say what they will. Who cares?

Even in Europe Bush was greeted with demonstrations. DO you think people in this country want a THIRD trem of his "policies" thru McCane? I think NOT.

ALECO1 -----NOKOMIS,FL   June 16th, 2008 11:55 am ET

BREAKING NEWS—-JOHN McCAIN SAYS HE WILL SELL HIS OIL STOCKS WHEN THE PRICE OF A BARREL OF OIL REACHES $200.00.
I THINK WE BETTER VOTE FOR OBAMA IN NOV.

Stats   June 16th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Michigan has a nearly 15% African-American population. That alone is a voting bloc that McCain cannot reach. It also indicates a nice margin.

Nice try RNC, next time try Wyoming (1%) or Utah (1%)

Chris   June 16th, 2008 11:55 am ET

America is a sad, sad country. They prefer to listen to spiteful women and the childish and petty GOP who have rebranded America as a loser of a country. Continue to be stupid and nurse your spite and listen to idiotic GoP who have messed up this country more than anyone possibly could believe 8 years ago. I hope that your spiteful and petty ways continue to put gas in your cars and food on your table and your children do not starve because we know that spite can do all of that. Congrats, America is foolish. May your follies continue to put food on the table while the rest of the world realises what an idiotic country rules the free world and ignores you while sensible countries take over. If John McCain wins this election, with other countries watching closely due to the availabilitiy of information through the internet and the other media, I think these countries will stand up and realise that America is way too stupid of a country to actually be the leader of the free world.

Tommy   June 16th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Typical repuklican strategy - treat the people like they are too stupid to figure out the truth on their own. Sadly, many of them are and take the bait, hook - line and sinker.

Rudy NYC   June 16th, 2008 11:55 am ET

McCain is being deceptive again. The GOP applied the same penalty, full delegation with half votes, as the the DNC. There was no "boycott", but rather an informal agreement among the candidates to not lend credibility to what were then deemed as "illegal" primaries.

I have been trying unsuccessfully to research this. I recall during one of the Democratic Primary Debates last year that the candidates were asked collectively if they would campaign in FL or MI, or would they respect the ruling of the DNC committee and not lend credibility to those states by making them significant. I recall that all candidates expressed a willingness to respect IA and NH as being the "first" states with elections or caucuses.

LaShanda   June 16th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Michigan BROKE THE RULES! He could NOT campaign in Michigan. Oh, but then again, the GOP can care less about following the rules, much less the Constitution.

terri   June 16th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Are we really talking about this? We should be happy today the Saudi may increase oil production to help lower the price of gas

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Go Obama

shannon   June 16th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Apparently Obama doesn't need Florida, Ohio, or Michigan. How many Iowa's are there in the Union?

Who is