August 11, 2008
Posted: August 11th, 2008 12:15 PM ET

From
Mark Penn was Hillary Clinton's chief strategist.
Mark Penn was Hillary Clinton's chief strategist.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Sen. Hillary Clinton’s chief strategist wanted to attack Sen. Barack Obama for lacking “American roots” during the Democratic primary battle, according to a magazine article set to come out next week.

“All of these articles about his boyhood in Indonesia and his life in Hawaii are geared towards showing his background is diverse, multicultural and putting that in a new light. Save it for 2050,” Mark Penn, then Clinton’s chief campaign strategist, wrote in a memo written in March 2007, according to an article to be published in The Atlantic magazine.

“It also exposes a very strong weakness for him – his roots to basic American values and culture are at best limited. I cannot image America electing a president during a time of war who is not at his center fundamentally American in his thinking and in his values,” Penn wrote, according to the article written by Joshua Green.

Full story

Filed under: Hillary Clinton


dave   August 11th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

It was right not to pursue that strategy:

1. It only would have worked for people who are delusional and paranoid (see "Obama=Demise of USA" comment). And those people are going to vote Republican anyway, so she's not gaining much with this strategy.
2. Hillary's base is so narrow she couldn't afford to alienate minorities, who surely would have seen this for what it is - a cheap and low blow that she wouldn't have played against a white person.

One of the few good decisions she made in the race. Telling that one of her few good choices was actually a non-choice.

P.S. Anyone want to take a guess how many people the Bush family has ties with that are also linked with terrorist organizations? I'll give you a hint - it's about 100 times as many as Obama.

Cynthia   August 11th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

What people must realize is when the Lord is for you the world can't do you do harm. They were trying to think of all kinds of lies and half truths to tell and it still did not work. Senator McCain is taking a page from their book and most certainly will not win because of it.

True Party Unity   August 11th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

After reading some of these posts, I see how much ignorance is dripping off my screen. I thought being raised in Hawaii should not disqualify you from being a candidate for president. His ties to Hammas? Go read a book!!!! See what organizations your government is truly ties to.

Don't get upset that Obama went to the right schools, worked hard to make his own money (not a 2nd gen rich brat) is married to a strong beautiful woman, and who has the world looking at america like a friend, not some war hungry bomb machine.

Kim, Charlotte, NC   August 11th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

So stupid.................

Trudy   August 11th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

To Obama=Demise of USA...very interesting material you've reserched.
I bet you're also qualified to advise our current lame duck President?
If so, that explains the condition of our country now.

I really do commend CNN for posting anyone's bizzare comments. Thank God the majority of your readers are more intelligent to pay attention to the folks who are truly mentally troubled.

The internet is a fantastic form of communication, but it opens the doors for all types of kooks as well. God Bless America. I'm so looking forward to when Sen. Obama is our President.

Cyrus - NY   August 11th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

To Ginny Bell and Obama = Demise of USA:

Your ignorance is just astounding. If Obama is not American, then neither is anyone, or any children of immigrants. If you talk about Obama's "roots", I am sure you know that McCain was born in Panama, and not mainland US, right?

Obama has ties to Hamas? Where do you get this from? IF that is true, then Bush/Rumsfield/Cheney had ties to Saddam Hussein, Noriega, and I can name a few more dictators around the world. At least Obama didn't go to Palestine to shake hands with Hamas leaders, like Rumsfield did with Saddam.

Get a grip. If you don't want to vote for Obama, that's fine. Vote for whomever you like. Just stop the idiotic comments and fear mongering.

applecrispbetty   August 11th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

"Lacking roots" is the euphemism some Democrats use instead of admitting their racism. People like that should join the Repub party and not pretend to be Democrats.

bob   August 11th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

dan, that "obama=demise of USA" is a pretty typical american, espeically down south. (see immigration debate)

you see a lot of them. well at least i do.

props to hillary for not stooping to penn's level. On the otherhand, he's right, she lost b/c she cant make the hard choices.

AdamT   August 11th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Whats next for the clintons? The clinton legacy STOPS here this year, her image is tarnished beyond repair. The reason she lost in the primaries is becausse of a POOR campaign strategy...PERIOD!!!!!!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   August 11th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

It was clear Clinton created her own demise during her campaigning and those who don't recognize her campaign was in shambles from day one because she picked "cronies" instead of professionals in the areas she needed.

Another comment for moderation   August 11th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

To Dan, TX................You nailed it good.

smile!!!!!!   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Obama = Demise of USA.....the cleaners just called you...your white sheet and hood are ready to be picked up

SUSAN SAYS THE DUMBEST THINGS   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Mark Penn is a big, fat crook. I thought you all figured that out when he was working behind Hillary's back with the Columbians. He will make sure he continues to make millions and people like Hillary will continue to pay him. Just proves you don't have to be smart to be rich.

FRED, ATLANTA GA   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

To Obama=Demise of USA, you really need to stop watching television and making up stories you just wasted time blogging NON-SENSE and LIES and you know it! But you shouldn't be afraid, if you weren't afraid you wouldn't have to tell SUCH LIES!!!

SO YOU GET A CLUE then GET THE FACTS!!!!!!!

OBAMA 08/12 YES WE CAN & YES WE WILL!!!

bryant   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

if senator obama loses the presidential race then it is not because the republican party brought his demise. the clintons and those so-called hard core clintonites will have erroded the democratic base causing senator obama to lose. if he does lose and she seeks the white house in 4 years then I will campaign very hard for her opponent. the comments by wolfson and penn are hurting and dividing the party. they need to get over it. if they can't then I will not support hillary clinton even if she runs for dog catcher .

Not Karl Rove   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Mark Penn was just one more reason Hillary will be considered a closet Republican in the history books. She couldn't manage her money, she couldn't contain the egocentric cads on her campaign and she couldn't come up with what SHE was about.

And that says volumes about why6 she would have been a terrible president. Woulda, shoulda, coulda. Blah blah blah.

She LOST.

Mark Fox   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I applaud Sen. Clinton for refusing to use Mark Penn's strategy. It is only worthy of Karl Rove to try to use a strategy that has no bearing on issues as this.

Neni   August 11th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Its over get over it pliz...

Bradley In Colorado   August 11th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Attn: "ginny bell j.b.n.ga."

Hillary lost fair and square. Spare me your bellyaching. And I'd appreciate it if you could forward this memo to your fellow PUMA's.

REDNECK4OBAMA   August 11th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

WHY DON'T THIS FAT BOY GO TO THE GYM.

REDNECK4OBAMA

Sean   August 11th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Obama = Demise of USA: Do you truly believe the things coming out of your mouth? If so, you should truly seek psychological help.

Reasonable   August 11th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

And Bush Jr and Senior dont have blatant (not conspiracy theory) ties to militant Islamic organizations? Who do you think we cozy up to buy our oil from!?

GET A CLUE PEOPLE...

The day that Americans who 'claim' to be 'more American' than those Americans that can live overseas, speak more then one language, and have relatives from other countries, is the day they realize that being American is as diverse as living in any other country in any part of the world.

We need to get over ourselves.

Warren   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

The fact he doesn't have American roots is only part of the problem. He also doesn't have any real beliefs, his positions change with every new poll. He also doesn't have enough experience to lead the most powerful country on earth. The liberal media has again stuck us with a candidate who is too liberal, too weak and too wishy-washy to win.
Thanks alot.
McCain 2008
Hillary 2012

Anonymous   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

The last sentence explains another reason Hillary would have lost against McCain...“Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency.”

David Armendale, SF, CA   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

and the most disturbing aspect to this is – if this scare tactic is good enough for Clinton, it's good enough for McCain. These folks come prepared to play dirty.

Obama = Demise of USA   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Yes no American would post such ignorant drivel...
Hmm...
What does Obama's pastor think?

SGJ, Chicago, IL   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

What exactly is the definition of "American Roots"?

I cant believe this guy get paid regardless of whether their client wins or not. Nice gig!

GETTING SICK OF THE STUPIDITY   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Are you kidding me? Seriously, are you kidding me? Do people really believe crap like "Obama = demise of USA" said? Are there really people that stupid walking around? How do they support themselves?

Chachi   August 11th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Any man that is running for the most important office in the free world should have to have high morals and standards if not he is wide open political black mail and more.
Edward should not have run knowing this it shows that he only cares about his ego just like Obama having to denounce his past. No one can’t run away from your past that easy and the media is letting Obama of the hook specially CNN

Bradley In Colorado   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

To "Obama = Demise of USA"

That was the biggest load of bull I ever saw, and trust me, I've seen a lot! I suggest you take a look much closer to home (aka, the McCain campaign). Obama isn't the only one being deified, you know...and people like you prove it, simply by pinning Obama as a kind of demon and McCain as your worshiped deity of choice.

Shame what kind of people we have in this country.

T from Kzoo   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I cannot believe this . . . but seeing as how it is related to Clinton's campaign, I actually can. I'm extremely glad that she did not win. She couldn't even run her own pathetic campaign, she couldn't even control her paid advisors (let alone her husband, but that is an entirely different issue), how on God's green earth is she supposed to be able to run/control the country?!

Cyrus - NY   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Mark Penn is a fascist!!

New Yorker   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

The Clinton's aversion for the truth cost them in this instance.

Chips   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Just come on out of the wood work. We got the RAID!

ginny bell j.b.n.ga.   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I HEARD ALL HIS KIN IS PACKING FOR THE MOVE TO THE WHITE HOUSE......

Michelle - Michigan   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I thought Hawaii was an American state? A beautiful state... but American none the less.

Hateful Clinton racists are just jealous. Who wouldn't mind having such a culturally rich childhood.

Dan , TX   August 11th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

And we all know what a brilliant man Mark Penn is.... That's the kind of thinking that led Clinton to lose.

And to "Obama = Demise of USA" who posted ignorant drivel. You are not an American, no American would be so ignorant and/or such a lying pig.

ginny bell j.b.n.ga.   August 11th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

EVERYTIME SHE OPENED HER MOUTH....
THE MEDIA ATE HER ALIVE....
SHE COULD NOT TELL THE TRUTH ABOUT HIS LACK OF ANYTHING .....THAT THE MEDIA DIDN'T SAY .......SHE "WOULD SAY OR DO ANYTHING TO BE THE PRES......."
NOW WHAT ARE YOU IN THE MEDIA GOING TO DO ABOUT THIS????????
HE NEEDS TO CHOISE HER AS HIS VICE.PRES........
MCCAIN.....YOU PICK HILL.AS YOUR VP....
WHY IS MICHELLE SPEAKING???????
SHE IS NOT PROUD OF HER COUNTRY?????
SHE HATES WHITE PEOPLE......... HER THEME PAPER FROM COLLEGE......
DOES NOT MATTER I WANT WATCH ANYWAY......
IF NOT HILL.........
GO MCCAIN.......08

Pat in Cali   August 11th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

stop the lies about Obama.

everybody who is for McCain is wishing the demise of the United States.

McShame = USA third world country by 2012

Rachel   August 11th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Hillary is not racist. I wish the Obama memos would come out wonder what he said. Also did you all forget to note it said she didnt use the tatics? of course not anything to bash Hillary.

anonymous   August 11th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Obama is too smart to pick HILLARY. We will sure have more scandals in the White House if he does. Back to the Clinton days.
It is hard for me to understand why he would even consider Hillary after all the ugly debates the two had. People we all saw it on TV and heard it with our own ears.

Republicans Hate America   August 11th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Nice comb-over Penn. How is this story solving global warming?

An American   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Wow, "Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency."

How telling is that? Hear that "Clinton or die" fanatics? She couldn't make saving decisions in her own campaign. Hmmm, perhaps she wouldn't have been the best president!!!!!!

Lost in CNN Moderation   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

"Obviously he lacks American roots… You'll all see when he gets elected and we start allowing stonings of adulterers and thieves in city capitals."

Ha! My God you just HAVE to laugh at the ignorance of some people! Stoning adulterers and thieve? I think the Republicans will be the first to go!

How does CNN determine who gets posted?   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

"I cannot image America electing a president during a time of war who is not at his center fundamentally American in his thinking and in his values."

I guess the fact that he was attached at the hip to his white American mother means absolutely nothing to the Clintons. Or the fact that he was raised by his white American grandparents in the US means nothing. Since when did Hawaii become a foreign country?

What does he mean exactly when he says "not fundamentaly American...in his values". Is he trying to say that black people don't have (American) values?

Broad Street Buddy   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Who cares what he wanted to do! He got fired and his boss lost, but the team (democrats) will ultimately win.

I'M SICK TO DEATH OF SUSAN'S COMMENTS   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Mark Penn and Howard Wolfson need to go away. I can't believe we're still hearing from these men who torpedoed Hillary's campaign. I think her biggest mistake was her lack of judgment when it comes to people's character. That is a serious flaw that we don't want in our next President. None of these people appears interested in unifying the party. They all appear to be too self-interested.

We're NOT "your friends"!!!   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I guess were gonna have to label anyone born in Hawaii a lesser-american. Does Hawaii still have seats in congress, better give those back IMMEDIATELY!!!

McCain too, the old cote was born in PANAMA, he's a lesser-american too!

Get real.

OBAMA 2008 + 2012

Phil in KC   August 11th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

So Penn wanted her to go even MORE negative? That's what turned me off about her in the first place.
I originally was rooting for Biden or Dodd. After they dropped out, I switched to Edwards. When he suspended his campaign, I decided to bide my time before jumping on anyone's bandwagon. After all, there was very little difference between them on the issues. I eventually settled on Obama when Hillary went negative. I felt his campaign was more positive. He also did not have the air of entitlement that seemed to permeate the Clinton campaign. (BTW – I am a former Iowan. So I have to question Hillary's supposition that she would have won if Edwards had dropped out earlier.)

druid   August 11th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Demise get a life. Is McCain born in the USA do your home work. Now we know where all the idea of no exprience comes from. Thanks internal memo.

A NATION OF WHINERS for OBAMA   August 11th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

PEN MUST BE CONFIRMING THIS FOR BILL,

BECAUSE THE REST OF US HAVE ALWAYS

KNOWN WHAT THE CLINTON STRATEGY WAS.

IT WASN'T FAIR, INTELLIGENT, OR HONORABLE.

Lost in CNN Moderation   August 11th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

How many wanna bet McCain hires him?

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   August 11th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Personal to Obama = Demise of USA:

Stop listening to Rush, please; do yourself a favor and start thinking for yourself.

Danielle, TX   August 11th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Wow!! What a shocker!!

Nikki   August 11th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

It's John Edwards fault...it's because we didn't make Obama anti-American enough....it's the democratic party's fault....it's because of the Florida/Michigan fiasco...it's the fault of the superdelegates....it's because the media is sexist....it's because Obama played the race card....it's it's it's

The Clintons are the laughing stock of U.S. politics. They are the exact cause of their demise.

Willow, from Iowa   August 11th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

We need someone in charge of our country that has a bit of international experience. Someone that doesn't believe that just because a person is different that they should be the enemy. McCain says anyone that is not democratic is "the enemy", and he will not have any diplomatic ties. This is the world, and everybody is different. And we need to be just as accepting of differences in our Politics as we are expected to be accepting of diversity in jr. High school and High school.

And Demise of the USA, Hamas decided they didn't like him anymore, when they found out he liked Israel. Guess who is getting the money bundled into his candidacy from Arab nations? Yep, McCain!

Nikki   August 11th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Please, the only true Americans are the Indians and you see what we did to them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! People need to learn and stop with the hate and division!

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   August 11th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

NOBODY COULD HAVE FORECAST THE OBAMA GROUND SWELL TO THE MAGNITUDE IT HIT, AND THAT'S WHAT HAS HILLARY'S PEOPLE REELING.

But the aftermath has been disturbing, very disturbing.

"I'm gonna stamp me little feet and go home!"

ya   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

“Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices...."

So Glad she isn't the candidate, 3 am phone call my butt.

California Gold   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Despite a nationwide campaign designed by morons and clowns and racists she pulled off quite a primary run. This is a testament to Hillary Clinton: a candidate embraced by millions of voters. This has nothing to do with Edwards supposedly diluting the vote or that feckless strategist and his proposed campaign strategy, which smacks of racism to me.

Zelda   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

“Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency.” Joshua Green

Do we want someone like this as president? The best person won.

TheTruthHurts   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Obama was right – NO DRAMA wins hands down.

Another comment for moderation   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Barack Obama IS America. He was born in the United States and has first hand knowledge of parts of the world many of us will never see due to his wonderful, educated mother who did not see color in people. We are in position to change the way the world views the US. (HYPOCRITICAL)

OBAMA 08

Kelby in Houston   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Why didn't you tell us which magazine this article is going to be in? CITE YOUR SOURCES!

Rich in Seattle   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

So that would be what? If his mom is American then that would mean they are focusing on his dads roots. And that is what... The fact that he's from Africa makes him unamerican? Yeah, that would have been fine.

Penn, thanks for reminding me why I dislike Hillary so much.

Simon   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Hawaii is a US state what's not "american" about it?

Ray   August 11th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

TO: Obama=Demise of USA

I hope that your last post was a joke; if it wasn't, PLEASE do the rest of this country a favor and denounce your citizenship and leave...and take everyone who thinks that way with you. It's 2008...the U.S.A. no longer has the time or the patience to deal with those who want us to go back to the "good old days" of the 1950's. There's more than one race in this world...more than one religion...more than one gender...more than one country. GET USED TO IT!

Obama '08!!

Naomi, Texas   August 11th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Do we really want the American values that look out for everyone but the American people?

O PUMA   August 11th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

O pathetic "Obama = Demise of USA". are you from the united states or the HAMAS. get a life.

kwesi   August 11th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

New CNN Scheme, DIVIDE DEMS...REPUBS WIN!!! Keep it going CNN.

Naomi, Texas   August 11th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

People... how American is GW Bush if he has authorized a war that has left America in deep debt, people less well off and arguably more hated than ever by the entire world? If you want to discuss values ask yourself what 'American Values' really means...

Greg, NY   August 11th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Obama = Demise of USA, if that is your real name...

You know they have pills for that?

Ryan   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

This guy *is* Karl Rove... so glad these people didn't win.

gingerpeachy   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

If Hillary picked the likes of Mark Penn and paid him 22 million dollars to run her campaign into the groud....we should all count ourselves licky she is NOT the Democratic nominee.

Talk about bad judgement!!!

a southern bell for OBAMA   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

PENN CERTAINLY CONFIRMS THE CLINTON

STRATEGY THAT BILL HAS DENIED AT EVERY

OPPORTUNITY HE HAS HAD.

Junkie   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I haven't seen any John McCain supporters on these blogs, onto people rabidly anti-Obama. Does anyone actually SUPPORT John McCain?

People like "Obama = Demise of America" make me laugh. If John McCain is elected, it will demonstrate to the world that Americans have become so selfish and inward-looking that they will do anything not to be challenged.

IF JOHN MCCAIN IS ELECTED, AMERICAN WILL HAVE BECOME CULTURALLY PARALYZED IN THE EYES OF THE WORLD.

Southern view   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Actually, the strategy is un-American. We are a nation of people from other nations; a nation of diversity. I'm looking at our foundaton currency, the penny. Underneath the United States of America it says E Pluribus Unum, from many One.

Kelby in Houston   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Dear CNN,
I hate you guys sometimes. This is one of those times. I have posted her many times and I have made no secret that I am going to vote for Barack Obama for President of The United States of America. I am doing everything I can to accomplish that goal. You are not helping. You are not supposed to help. But, you are not supposed to hurt either.
This article, in no way, should be considered as "news". This is not new, nor is it newsworthy. At best, this is gossip. At worst, this is a coded message to the GOP giving them a new strategy, a angle that they can use to take Obama down, SINCE ALL OF THEIR PREVIOUS ATTEMPTS HAVE FAILED.
By posting articles like this or broadcasting them on any of your news channels shows what position CNN has taken and where your loyalties lie.
Do you remember Tim Russert? He was the best political reporter because he was unbiased. He reported evenly. And he came with current events and current information. You guys are talking about what Hillary could have done. Her part of the race is over and this information does not matter to the public. It matters to the GOP though.
I am thoroughly disappointed in you all.

arc, Lugano CH   August 11th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

The next battle is for the voters of New York to take away Hillary’s senate seat.

Paris   August 11th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

No wonder Hillary lost. Penn is an idiot!

Keith R.   August 11th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Clinton's only failure is that she was surrounded by bad campaign advisors.

bert   August 11th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

What an idiot.... America is the greatest melting pot there is, and it's no secrete our success stems from our free flowing diversity. We need to accept this as fact and move forward. Clinton ran a good race but she had too many idiot's like this guy around her preventing her best efforts. Obama, is all America and proven to be committed to what he believes in and he will make an outstanding President and we will be a greater Nation with many more opportunities because of his leadership and committment to his vision. Great leaders bring out the best in the people willing to follow!

Blue California   August 11th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

that's disgusting. I can't believe that's coming from another democrat.

Dem in Nebr   August 11th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Wow, Obama=Demise......psychotically paranoid, aren't you. Not to mention the complete lack of facts in your statement.

Havoc   August 11th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

"Obama=" what ties to what organization. Or are those just the rethug talking points for today?

Reality check #1   August 11th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

He and his wife both are lacking in American values, look at their mentor and priest of 20 + years. How could anyone be fool enough to believe those beliefs were not shared by the Obamas? It only takes one time to get hit in the head with a hammer to know it hurts, not 20+ years.

fred   August 11th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

CNN.......quit posting everyone's whining

DR. YES   August 11th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

like she would have won with that lame tactic.penn and the rest of her campaign lost because of those same tactics.they would have lost by much more had they used this crap.

Brian   August 11th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Wow... this "obama = demise of USA" commentor has some real issues to work out. How do you get on the Internet from that shed you live in deep in hills?

Valerie   August 11th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

And people actually believed that she would make an effective President? She can't even run her own campaign!

Turning the page   August 11th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Mark Penn is a despicable being.
As a supporter of Barack Obama, I made a conscious decision to not contribute to retiring Hillary's Clinton's campaign debt specifically because most of that money is owed to Mark Penn. Man, am I glad I made that decision!

Obama/Biden 08
Obama/Bayh 08
Obama/Sebelius 08
Obama/Casey 08

Listen Up...   August 11th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

"Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency."

WHEW! And she was ready to lead? This job is nothing but hard choices!

laurie SD   August 11th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Mr. Penn..... what about all of us "military brats" that grew up in Hawaii, Japan, Germany, Italy, Azores, etc., etc.? Does that mean none of us is qualified to be president? It actually gives kids a greater understanding of people and cultures. Give me a freaking break.... You don't like Obama? OK. Fine, but use some sort of reasonable argument as to why he isn't cut out to be president. Your ignorance is showing.

Richard   August 11th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

This reminds me of the article on "if Edwards had been nabbed earlier then Clinton would have won."

Snore snore snore.

Clinton's new motto is "Shoulda, coulda, woulda."

That about sums up the Clinton whiners.

Bob From Pittsburgh   August 11th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Ha Ha Ha Ha ,...

Obama = Demise of USA, man...!! get a grip..

You are worst than Karl Rove..

ha ha ha...

Jeff   August 11th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Obama is not interested in the welfare of the nation, he is only onterested in his own well being. He is however, American and this would have been sleazy.

rightytighty   August 11th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Ha Ha!!

DR. YES   August 11th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

more clinton garbage

Marcus   August 11th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

"Clinton never forced a resolution"

"....Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices..."

sounds like she would have made a great president with those qualities....

lets be glad they sank her chances at the presidency, before the consequences of what she could have "sunk" due to indecisiveness
and lack of leadership were even greater

Obama '08, '12

MaggotBrain   August 11th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

She should have fired this fool after his ties with Columbia came to light- You can't rail against NAFTA when your campaign manager just received $800,000 from the Columbian government.

And THIS is the kind of advice he was giving? Wow-

Why she kept him on her campaign is beyond me... Personally? I would have fired him for that hair-do

NEVEROBAMA   August 11th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Obama is going down!!!

I really dislike him and all his hater zombies!

This will be lost by him and him alone. What an empty suit!

The American People do not want crooked Chicago Politics in the White House.

MMN-Milwaukee WI   August 11th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Clinton is nothing but a distraction to the DEMs and the Obama campaign and nothing more. All these Coulda, shoulda, woulda, are doing is opening old wounds and salting them and that does no one in this America any scrap of good. I am still waiting for Geraldine Ferraro’s and Lanny Davis’s “coulda, shoulda, & woulda”s for Clinton before Aug 25th rolls around.

DIZIZI31   August 11th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Anthing to keep Hillary in the news. And again another reason why Hillary didn't win. I would have won if this article was printed. This man is an idiot. Anyone who took American History knows Hawaii is part of the 50 states known as the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

Kevin   August 11th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Another reason why Hillary is on the same side as Rove and Bush. I don't want bigots in my party, so if you are going to be one, join the Republicans.

karen-phoenix   August 11th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

What a STUPID idea!!! Obama's roots are in Kansas!!! And Hawaii!! Wish I was from Hawaii. GO Obama

78 /white/f/ 4 Obama 08/12   August 11th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Kerry never got past go "Jealous " for Hillary ,a sore looser so now he is trying to get fame by being on front page with his made up pure lies .He must be another re-buttican with a mask on.
Throw him under the bus.
Sr.'s vote for Obama .
Leave Viagara user Mc Darkages ,1800's technology idiot
that don't even know how to send an email ..... in the year 2008 ???back where he already is taking a nap with Depends and when he dreams he is hoping his helpers put the harness on his horses/wagon so he can get to the next Town Hall.

Can you imagine how long we have had computers and he is rinning for President of this country in the year 2008 and he cannot send an email today??Wise guy he is NOT

Obama will win so you whiners may as well get used to the words President Obama .

chicago chris   August 11th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

before all the Hillary supporters who didn't actually read the article come up with some type of consipracy theory please remember it says "Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency.”"

Probably not the best candidate if her own aides are saying this about her campaign.

FOr the record, I would love to see Hillary win the vote at the Dem National COnvention. Think of all the BO supporters that will be pissed and not even vote. Hillary would have 18 million total votes in the GE.

karl   August 11th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

"fundamentally American in HIS thinking and in HIS values..."

Hey PUMA, looks like this guy didn't really think Hillary had a chance either.

Candy West Virginia   August 11th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Barack's unique upbringing here and abroad has what has given him his brilliant perspective on life and the issues, it what aides in his being a visionary. He is a breath of fresh air that this country sorely needs. We are lucky to have him. And is it any wonder why Clinton lost? can't manage a campaign = can't manage a country.

LYNETTE IN CA   August 11th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

“Her hesitancy and habit of AVOIDING HARD CHOICES exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency.”

So much for being ready at day one! If she cannot make fundamental decisions for her campaign and rally her own troops to make them work for her not against her, then how can she run a country? Running a country requires good, consistent judgement. Not avoidance!

OBAMA '08 / '12

Gary Jaussaud   August 11th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Gary's comment is:

Sen. Clinton would have won if this or she would or should of won because of this or that, Well when horses fly, she did not win, and that
is it, its over, and Hillery needs to get over it as well.

Saratoga   August 11th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Come on, Clinton is the last person to use such a strategy. Isn't she the New York senator, now how long has she been a resident prior to her election, and what type of patriotism she showed New York prior to her election. Owe yeah she tried to abandon that post for something else as soon as she thought the opportunity was there. Yeah question some ones core, yelp if New Yorkers would have done this with her, would she be a senator for New York or Arkansas.?

Noah   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

In response to the Clinton winning without Edwards in the race article

I have a new scenario:
If over half the nation had a half a brain Bush would have lost in 2004.
You can take that one to the bank.

Seriously America, prove me wrong.

Enlightened Voter   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Hahaha puma/pac babes and chicadees. I've said it a million times. She poorly ran her campaign and its finances and yet you demented people wanted her to run your country. Incredible! She never had my vote anyway and NEVER will.

Swampy   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

HRC's "hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices" says it all. That's not flexibility and the ability to grasp and appreciate nuance. That's cowardice, and that's why I am so grateful she didn't slip past the voting public and grab the nomination.

Obama/Biden '08

JD   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

“Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency.”

...given this statement, she would have made a good President why?

Isn't making hard choices pretty much the job description for POTUS?

Linda31   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Really? Last I checked Hawaii was a State in America. Also, he was in Indonesia for about 2 years of his life. Penn is crazy.

NGANGA,Austin TX   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Is that a job aplication to the McShame campaign or an excuse for having been paid Milliaons by the Clintons?

VON BISMARK,Vienna.   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

There is no evil in God's kindom!

SJ   August 11th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

why is hillary & staff still giving McCain ideas???

Keep it up and dems will make sure Hillary loses her Senate seat too.

Glendell Latham   August 11th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

No matter what anyone says. Hillary has a huge following and she
is someone to be reckoned with in the Democratic Party.

Caroline, Kentucky   August 11th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Wow.

Peter   August 11th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I commend Sen. Clinton for not sinking to this "issue". I doubt it would have made much difference as it is just another farce the right wing is using to attack Sen. Obama.
I think his background shows what commitment he has to this country. Here is a guy who traveled around and then made a commitment to come back to the US to study, go to college, go to law school, raise a family, and then pledge himself to serving the public. What's the problem there?

Hey right wingers: Which candidate was born within the 50 states? Here's a hint: it wasn't McCain.

Coach G   August 11th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Ummm.....isn't Hawaii one of the 50 states????

Nadine   August 11th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Those Clintons have so many people fool and under a demonic spell. The clinton are no better than cut throat Karl Rove and Bush croonies. Bill Clinton and his many adultery's affairs and Hillary knew it and people this is what you want back in the white house? Woe unto America!

linus   August 11th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Isn't it at least possible that she lost because more people prefer Obama?

Franky   August 11th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

You know, all I wanna say is that I don't think is right when you talk about your chances after what happened to Senator Edwards. Or let alone I don't think is right if it's your party.

Poor Senator Edwards and his family are going through an ordeal while the "Clinton Machine" is talking about how it couldv'e benefit them and he's probably right. But I think it shows more than that...

Stephen H   August 11th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Here we go now. Somehow, the whacky PUMAs and hard-core Clinton supporters will somehow spin this as being Obama's fault. This topic clearly demonstrates that Hillary did not know how to run a campaign and did not deserve to get the nomination – - -period.

Jack Jodell, Minneapolis, MN   August 11th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Penn is pathetic. With him as strategist, no wonder Hillary lost. Penn even LOOKS like he's half nuts!

Obama supporter in New Jersey   August 11th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Great CNN! Give ideas to the McSANE campaign. it won't matter...people want CHANGE!

John, Brooklyn, New York   August 11th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Actually, while I'm not a huge fan of Hillary Clinton, I would contend that the basic premise of this article – that Senator Clinton failed to win the nomination because of her "habit of avoiding hard choices" – is belied by the fact that she, in fact, FIRED Mark Penn as her campaign strategist. She may have lost – but not because she couldn't strongly and decisvely oppose devisive and racially-tinged advice.

voter   August 11th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

What are "American Roots"?policing the world with our guns? siloing ourselves from the rest of the world and getting people to hate us?

Right now we NEED a world view... and McCain is NOT it. Less than 20% of major world leaders supports him according to many polls.

chuckd   August 11th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

All this talk of Sen Obama not being an American and not having American roots is the raving of a sore loser!!! Sen. Obama is has much an American has you or I. Mr Penn face it , you ran a loser campaign on Sen Clinton's behalf and you screwed it up, so please spare us the whining.

CBH

CH   August 11th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Why is she back in the news!?! Just go away! Who cares about an attack that someone wanted to frame during the primary season?

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   August 11th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Freedom of speech, CNN – stop pushing McCain at us !!!!!!!

You want to know the real shame about all this crap?

THE WHOLE WORLD IS WATCHING. NO WONDER NO ONE TRUST'S THE U.S..A. They don't have to destroy us. Our politicians are doing it for them.

Grow up people – THINK !!!!!!!!!!!! For a change.

Obama '08

Linda from Prescott AZ   August 11th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

This is just plain nonsense. The Primary Season is over. We have a candidate and enough whining already.

The Bush Twins : George and John   August 11th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

In other words Hillary made a poor choice in selecting her campaign staff, not to mention, couldn't make important decisions, and so on, and so on. Long story short – ran the campaign into the ground. (Won't mention the fiasco of Bill campaiging for her). I'm soooo glad that woman did not get the nom !.

Obama '08

Erica from GA   August 11th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

This guy is an idiot. Hawaii IS in America and Sen. Obama was in Indonedia for a few years when he was a small child. Please. No one else ever hire this guy unless you want him to advise your opponent. He didn't even know the rules of the primaries. No winner take all for Democrats. LOL.

Typical White Person   August 11th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Does anyone wonder why Obama's mother sent her son to Hawaii but kept her daughter in Indonesia?

If she really and truly worried about the educational opportunities in Indonesia, why didn't she send her daughter to Hawaii too?

I smell something and the press aught to smell it as well. But that would mean digging into things like the Masque he attended with his stepfather and reporting about the lies he told in his book...

Democrat for John McCain   August 11th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Obama is a fraud. He has to go back to Kenya. Larry King does not have anybody to bring on the show tonight. He is bringing Nancy Pelosi. She is a disgrace to America.

ProudToBeDemocrat   August 11th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Get over it you bunch of idiots and cry babies.

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   August 11th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

You want to know the real shame about all this crap?

THE WHOLE WORLD IS WATCHING. NO WONDER NO ONE TRUST'S THE U.S..A. They don't have to destroy us. Our politicians are doing it for them.

Grow up people – THINK !!!!!!!!!!!! For a change.

Obama '08

Franky   August 11th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

"Sen. Hillary Clinton’s chief strategist wanted to attack Sen. Barack Obama for lacking “American roots” during the Democratic primary battle, according to a magazine article set to come out Tuesday."

Well, well...let me see. Wasn't he a member of the "Clinton Machine?" Wasn't he with the campaign that thought they were gonna win?? Wasn't he with the campaign when Hillary cried?? Etc...

Hmm, I guess is true. If there's one thing that the Clintons "lack" is being a happy camper. Hmmm, so much for the dream, huh? And so much for their prediction...

Chris   August 11th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Why is this being posted now? Shoulda woulda coulda, it's time for the democrats to unite and become a party, this kind of hind sighted "news" will do nothing but spread the party apart.

AL - West Palm Beach - FL   August 11th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

CNN....come on, I don't care how and why she lost...That's not news.

Why aren't reporting on Obama's policy book slated to come out on September 9, 2008. Since you and FIXed News have said he has no substance for his policies.... I guess the $13 & change to pay for the paperback is not too much for you, huh Wolf?

Nate   August 11th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

If she can not manage her own campaign, how can she manage the country? If she avoided making the tough decisions in her campaign, how will she be able to make the much harder decisions that come with running the country?

Election Watcher   August 11th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Sadly, it becomes more evident every day, that the DNC bet on the wrong horse.

Just say Nobama '08

Sickofinanities   August 11th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

ah, bigotry and ignorance must have clouded the ability to manage the campaign and FINANCE.

larry   August 11th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

“Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices.........” Hmm.....doesn't sound much like presidential material to me.

blaising   August 11th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

What a bunch of crybabies. This is not important...

rich   August 11th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

It seems the Clinton team is still fuming over their defeat. It's a little early for a post-mortem analysis as their party is now supposed to be focused on beating John McCain rather than continually bashing Obama as if the primaries were not over.

ProudToBeDemocrat   August 11th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Wolf why are you trying to create problem for the democrats by bringing ridiculos stuff like this are you trying to help the Republicans win your support for the GOP is getting obvious.

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   August 11th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Where was McCain the first few years of his life? NOT U.S.A.

Beware what you start.

Obama '08

No control.   August 11th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

"Green highlights bitter fighting among Clinton’s staff, writing "“her advisors couldn’t execute strategy; they routinely attacked and undermined each other, and Clinton never forced a resolution.""

Can you imagine, if she could'nt keep her campaign staff in order how would she have been able to maintain her White House staff? Oh well, guess we'll never have to worry about it.

Anonymous   August 11th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

he should work for the low road express where he belongs.

Puck   August 11th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

“Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices exacted a price that eventually sank her chances at the presidency.”

Thank the gods. If she avoided hard choices during the primaries,
imagine which hard choices she would have avoided, or even worse,
imagine which wrong choices she would have made had she made
it all the way to the White House.

If if's and but's were candy and nuts, it would be Christmas every day, Hillary.

mel   August 11th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Penn, just keep your mouth closed okay.

arc, Lugnao CH   August 11th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

This article brings into memory the coy empowered smirk on Hillary's face when she proclaimed that she would win the nomination through her Robert Kennedy Theory in August.

Hillary shouldn't be allowed to speak at the convention. She is despicable.

Don for BHO   August 11th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Can the Clintons please go away, they simply refuse to cede the

spotlight to their party's elected nominee, what attention loving...

Larry in Florida   August 11th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

The attitude of Obama supporters scares the hell out of me. I wish she would have done something to beat Obama because The Obama supporters think they're greater then thou. Just read some of what they write. Scary people. They don't sound like they're ready to unite anything.

Norma   August 11th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

American values and Culture are Obama's weakness?? Thats the stupidest thing i've ever heard. Apparently he has more values then Bill ever did. Mark Penn is the same thing as Carl Rove. Don't talk about the issues just attack him on personal things.

No wonder her whole campaign sunk!!!

Alice Brinkley   August 11th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

It is looking more and more like Obama does not have US parents; he has not produced a birth certificate to prove he has even one American parent. Yes, one could think Obama doesn't have American roots. Hillary was right all along.

Poor Hillary, she probably won't even get a VP announcement via EMail as they will be sent to Obama supporters only.

Informed Voter   August 11th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

CNN, the Primaries is over .. enough already

peace   August 11th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

What a sleazy bunch of people on the Clinton team.

No wonder she lost...

pay off your own debt Hillary, I'm not letting my hard-earned money go to a loser like Mark Penn.

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   August 11th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

No big surprise here!!!

Jim Schimmer   August 11th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

How sad and how pathetic.

One has to stoop to a low to win the presidency.

Decency and humilation are no longer existant.

McSame is doing the exact same thing.

pat C.   August 11th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

PS ....this person looks like a mad man! why are we being shown this crap?

demwit   August 11th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

So Hillary was indecisive.... That's every women’s prerogative.

M. Winners, Mesa, AZ   August 11th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

No wonder Hillary lost! Her own advisors – including the Karl Rove wanna-be Mark Penn – were giving her dumb advise, some of which she took and to her credit some of which she didn't.
The "fear, smear, mock and lie" strategy that Mark Penn was expousing to Hillary is best left to the neocons and repugs who support McLame – it will cost them the election...

teri   August 11th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

alot of people wants to see hillary as vp,
not me I dont want her to be cause when obama goes down and he will I dont want her blamed for what he screws up

Mike, TX   August 11th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

America stands for individual liberty, the right to pursue happiness, limited government and respect for others.

None of these are characters of Obama. His ideals are much similar to a totalitarian state where government exerts coercive power over virtually every aspect of individuals' lives.

Joe Unger   August 11th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

And this sounds like it will be Obama's undoing also.
The habit of avoiding hard choices. Witness Obama's now constant shifting and his caveating all he says. Obama should be way out in front of McCain but he is not.
Make the hard choices, Obama. Not just to further your personal ambitions but for America.

Joe Kiloz   August 11th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

And some of you wonder why Obama won, well this is one of the reasons: lack of coherent strategy coupled with lack of media examination of the "rising star," which helped to sell more newspapers and more to tune in to see who this guy Obama was.

Well, now we don't know that much more, but we're certainly getting sick and tired of the media spin about him coupled with the lack of media examination of him.

Lesley   August 11th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

"Her hesitancy and habit of avoiding hard choices" is exactly why she would not make a good presidential candidate. The right person won the nomination and in spite of negative campaigning from both McCain now and Hillary in the past, Obama will win in November.

Arkansas Undertaker   August 11th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

This is one of the reasons why she lost. ALl the negative campaigning and the people she hired. They are all too devisive and negative.

Obama = Demise of USA   August 11th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Obviously he lacks American roots... You'll all see when he gets elected and we start allowing stonings of adulterers and thieves in city capitals.

He already has ties to Hamas through his advisers... I mean seriously people, he has ties to a TERRORIST ORGANIZATION. WHICH IS INTENT ON THE DESTRUCTION OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION.

GET A CLUE PEOPLE...

A.   August 11th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

STOP. TRYING. TO. DIVIDE. US.

Abby   August 11th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Thank God they lost. Basically they were appealing the xenophobe racist in everyone. And they deserved what they got and the world would be the better for it.

Ed, Santa Fe NM   August 11th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Boy, good thing Hillary isn't a RACIST or anything.... I'm SO GLAD SHE LOST

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