September 28, 2008
Posted: 07:00 PM ET

From ,
Bill Clinton said he wasn't ready to call Obama a 'great man'.
Bill Clinton said he wasn't ready to call Obama a 'great man'.

(CNN)– Former President Bill Clinton was hesitant to characterize Barack Obama as a "great man" Sunday, a phrase he had no qualms using last week to describe Obama's rival John McCain.

Clinton told NBC's Tom Brokaw that it was only earlier this month in Harlem that he and Obama had their "first conversation." He said he had spoken with Obama before, but only in passing.

Clinton then explained what he meant in characterizing McCain as a "great man."

"I think his greatness is that he keeps trying to come back to service without ever asking people to cut him any slack or feel sorry for him or any of that stuff because he was a POW," Clinton said of the Republican presidential nominee.

Clinton, who successfully ran his own 1992 presidential campaign on the now commonly used phrase "it's the economy, stupid," said that he believed the current economic crisis "left [Obama] in a position of leadership that he's now in."

Clinton said he thought Obama "saw and imagined" how the economic situation could develop.

"And I think that the rest of us should admire that. That's a big part of leadership, being able to sense, as well as see the future," he said.

Clinton said he and Obama are developing a "really good relationship," and the Democratic nominee has the potential for greatness. Explaining, he said Obama has many personal accomplishments, but none that exemplify his greatness to the country.

"When he becomes president, he'll be doing things for the American people and for the world and he is-and the greatness will then become apparent because of the good he'll do…That's what I very much believe is going to happen."

Some have questioned Bill Clinton's support for Obama following the protracted primary battle between the Illinois senator and Hillary Clinton. The former president praised Obama during his speech at the Democratic National Convention and declared Obama "ready to be president of the United States," as both sides tried to bring an end to the "Clinton-Obama rift" storyline.

Clinton himself was among the most outspoken critics of Obama's readiness during the primary season.

The reason it has taken him so long to hit the trail for Obama was the need for him to return to work on his foundation after the long primary season, Clinton explained Sunday.

He is expected to campaign for Obama in Florida, Ohio, northeast Pennsylvania, and Nevada after the Jewish holidays.

"I'm going to do my very best to do every single thing he asks me to do," Clinton said.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Extra • John McCain


Denise in OKC   September 28th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Why oh why are you hanging SOOO MUch on what Ex-Prez Clinton says or don't say???? Get real, Sen Obama beat his wife. Whether he thinks he is a "great man" or not is totally irrelevant.

Get over the Clintons already!!!!

BF   September 28th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Bill Clinton amazes me more every day. He now is coming across like a scorned woman. He needs to take a breather and no Governor Palin will not wear his g-strings no matter how much he praises her. He is coming across as a snake. He is making sure that Hillary will be out of politics for sure in the future with his continuous ramblings on…..I feel sorry for her and I am Republican voting for Obama.

Mrs. Texas Teacher   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

I was a Hillary supporter. I was behind her 100%. I voted for Bill Clinton twice. I voted against Bush twice. I will vote against McCain. I will vote for Barack Obama, because I know he is the man for the job.

I just went through a major hurricane. I don't need Bill Clinton or anyone else to make up my mind for me. Hillary is no longer running! That is the bottom line. I do not want four more years of the status quo. That is ALL we will get out of the Republican Maverick.

Obama is our only Hope! And I think he is a good one!

San Pablo (No Party Affiliation)   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

What a mean-spirited bunch, turning on the former president of your party! It seems like every democrat I meet are just an angry bunch of vindictive people. I hope this isn't what I have to look forward to for the next 4 years.

Aileen   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Those Clinton's and the Clinton women out there better support Obama because if Hillary runs again don't expect our votes.

Dana from NY   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

It really doesn't matter- at the end of the day Obama is a Great man, not in an idealistic way like some Repugs like to mock- but if you see all he has accomplished, all he has to offer America, and the way he held his own at the debate then thats all the answer you need.
Check out the latest gallup pole today- Obama 50%- McCain 42%. I guess America didn't appreciate McCain's stunts, lies, and grandstanding…or his nasty demeanor in the debates… nevermind the GOP turning on Palin- they mocked the disunity in the Democratic party but it looks as though they jinxed themselves.
Anyone who saw the debates- saw clearly Obama stood his ground- and could look his opponent in the eye- a clear sign of strength- unlike Mr. POW McCain… the choice is clear… Bill Clinton is in an awkward position and I never expected much from him but I do appreciate that he voices his support…i think the media over analyzes everything from Bill and Hillary to stir the pot, and for the same reason tabloids sell millions of papers- people love DRAMA. Don't believe the hype- who cares anyway- its your future at stake so its your responsiblity to make your own choice.

Obama/Biden 08

bk   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Sour grapes…
1. The Clintons pride hurt… still licking the wounds
2. Refuse to accept the fact that a mixed race candidate like Obama can be just as smart, if not better than them.

Disclosure: I'm not a White nor a Black.
I just make my own observation.

Wise Owl   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Bill you are a great person, and these idioits bashing you on here are called Obots, I wish you would campaign for McCain. Then they might wish they hadnt been so nasty, that is one of the reasons we ex democrats cannot stand the thought of voting for someone who has people that are nothing but smart butts and always running their mouths putting down everyone who doesn't think the sun rises and shines in Obie's butt. I am called a racist because I am not for him, I don't care what color he is, and he is not AA becasue he is part white. It's because he has not experience……..he is a liar……he is a cheater…..and this is who will be in the WH???? Makes me sick.

CNN Please Post this   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

lol @ Bill still trying to be relevant.

Note to Bill: Obama/Biden is doing well despite your evil spitefulness.

Put up or shut up!

Joan   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Who cares? Bill already lost his legacy. He's just a jealousy, bitter, pathetic man.

Anthony   September 28th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

non-story…media trying to stir up something out of nothing. You could write an article about anything that someone 'never said.' I'm sure there are many democrats who haven't used the words "obama is a great man." Choose another person, write the same article and then try to pin them as racist or lackluster in their support. Come to think about it, i've never used those words and i'm VOTING FOR OBAMA…next headline: Anthony hesitant to call Obama a "great man." Now i'm bitter and racist too.

Doreen   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Why can't the media leave Bill alone? Obama's terrific but great? No. He's a kid in comparison to Clinton - but just wait - he WILL be president and then we'll see where he ultimately ends up.

Obama is at teacher and Americans hate school   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

I am irritated by the media choosing to slant Clinton statements about Obama as being hesitant and lukewarm. As if Obama needs either of the Clintons' effusive praise in order to be viable, or that Obama can only be a great man if Bill Clinton thinks he is. Bill and Hillary Clinton have every right to their opinions, and they are not litmus tests to the validity of Barack Obama vs John McCain.

I understand where Bill Clinton is coming from though. Barack Obama is at the beginning of his works as one of the greatest leaders of all time. John McCain is at the end of his works, hoping to culminate it by achieving the status of President of the US. I think he will not achieve it though, because he does not have the character and skill sets needed for a president of the 21st century. He will just have to be happy with the achievements he has made as a great senator and an honorable Vietnam war vet. So, Bill is right if this is the context that he considers McCain a great man. However, Barack Obama is on his way to showing the 21st century what a true great world leader looks like.

Obama is always right   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Bill did not get the memo and the press releases instructing him that Obama the great is the next coming.

A CANUCK   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Bubba can't call Qbama great because he thinks HE is the greatest!!
What a narcisist !!!

LB-NJ REPUBLICANS FOR MCCAIN   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Bill Clinton is a man of questionable morally decent character. But he is not stupid. However on this one, he along with other longtime Democrats are having to swallow the Obama for President bitter pill. He knows that's the Road to Perdition if Obama is elected. That's why he can't say Obama is the better greatest choice. So keep it up Bill.

John   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Bill legacy is adios.

Selfish as McCain it runs out.

It's too bad…the former emperor now has no clothes. Forget any chance of 2012 because this will never be forgiven.

Man, politics is dirty dirty business.

Citizen AJ - Northern Virginia   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Why is this even news? Obama is not a great man . . . yet! He has not accomplish things that would qualify him to be great. He is a great father and husband but his tenure as President will determine his greatness. His tenure in life, like all of us, will determine his greatness. Greatness is not something you just bestow on someone, it is a description earned over the years that yielded great results. We will see, I am rooting for him though!

McCain, I would not call great either. What GREAT thing did he do?

Murf   September 28th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Bill Clinton is still having difficulty with being displaced as the leader of his party and the clear suggestion that the nation can do better without another 4 or 8 years of Clinton drama.

His behavior belies his commitment to democratic party causes and in the final analysis just proves that he was more interested in himself and "his legacy" than in what is best for the country.

Messiahbama   September 28th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Bill,

How can we vote for Hillary?

Cleary SHE is a great female warrior and leader.

Obama? Not so much.

OBAMA GET'S IT!   September 28th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

As a supporter of Obama's I personally wish Bill would STOP speaking about Obama, I have said many times Bill still promotes Hillary who is no longer in the race more than he does Obama. To me it's like he is sending mixed signals.

Bill is in my opinion doing what he is doing just for the sake of his own place in history and for Hillary! That's so very sad especially when we are faced with the threat of McCain and Palin, who would possibly total ruin our nation!

Chuck   September 28th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Last time I looked it was PRESIDENT Clinton. Funny how CNN disrespects anyone that doesn't have their head up Obama's …..

Did Senator McCain refusing to talk to Larry King because of Alma Dale Campbell Brown make you all that mad?

Sour grapes baby.

Two Words: BABY BOOMERS. (2:1 ratio over your wet behind the ears crowd.)

tillman   September 28th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

(QUESTION) SAHRA HOW WAS DEBATE CAMP?

(SAHRA) YOU KNOW ONE DAY AT DEBATE CAMP,

I SAW RUSSIA FROM WY WINDOW

Fed up with Obama   September 28th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

We shoud be laughing if a truly great man- such as Bill Clinton- could be so silly as to call Obama a great man.

Based on what?

Name 3 things Obama has done for Country or for others.

Being out for your own self and self-promotion is not "great".

Great leaders ACT they do not posture and pontificate like Obama does.

Let us see some accomplishments.

a southern bell   September 28th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

IF I WERE BILL CLINTON, I WOULD SHUT UP

BEFORE BECOMING TOTALLY IRRELEVANT.

Janet- New York   September 28th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

He can't embrace Obama's greatness because it's not about him or his wife!! Too bad he can't see that the Clintons are over and it's time to move on and the world doesn't revolve around them. Sad that he doesn't put his party and his country before his own selfish needs. Obama doesn't need Bill Clinton- he is great in his own right!
OBAMA/BIDEN 2008

Helen, NY   September 28th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

This is what it is. Cat is out of the bag. These democrats want to shut up until Barack gets to White Hous eand then the true colors will come out. Barack has no experience whatsoever to be our president. Right now he is behaving as if he is a big economist and people are getting carried away. he has no record. He cannot be oue president period.

dan   September 28th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

HILLARY 2012 !!!!

Bill   September 28th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Remember, all you fools that think Obama is so great voted for Clinton…..twice! And now you turn on old Willie just like a disguarded old shoe. We see where you people are at now don`t we. McCain is a great man.

BM   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Initially, Hillary had my vote. I voted for Bill. Why is it that African Americans have no problems voting for a white american.
During my lifetime, I've only known one other African (MLK)American until NOW that I would have considered voting for, therefore, I am not voting for Obama because he is black, but I feel that he is the most qualified candidate to lead this country in the right direction and restore our respect around the world. Vote based on qualifications, not based on the color of one's skin.

Sylvia   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

I'm always on pins and needles when I hear that Bill Clinton will be interviewed. But, I agreed with his comments on Sunday morning, including with him being hesitant on calling Obama great. He hasn't lived long enough to be great. Just GIVE HIM TIME and I believe he can be.

SC for Hillary   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Mr. Clinton, you should do Absolutly NOTHING for this CROOK, remember he and his STUPID supporters said you were RACIST, well he should not want a RACIST to campaigh for him, and John McCain should not worry, the American people are not stupid, they will not let Crooked, Corrupted, ACORN Supporter, Radical Barack and OMG. RACIST, EVIL, ANGRY MICHELLE IN THE WHITE HOUSE, For all you Whiteys, as Michelle label you will definiely suffer if the Obamas get in the White House, so Its, either John McCain-Palin, or Barack-Michelle, who will reduce the Whiteys to slaves.: enough said.,

LeePee   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Come on Bill, you're stretching it. At on time, you rated right behind my husband and that says a lot even though he doesn't have your money. Your lack of enthusiasm will lead us to 4 more just like the last eight. You must get over that Hillary LOST! She was good however, she was outvoted. She would not make a good VP for Barack because she is a leader and would definitely try to take over just as Palin would do for McCain if he was elected. The bigger picture is that white America would rather see their livelihoods go down the drain rather than to vote for a Black man. White AMERICA WILL LOOSE! Blacks have always been on the loosing end. Do you really think that Blacks are in the majority of those people loosing homes. No, it is white America, making 35K a year and getting those sub-prime loans . Wake up America; McCain will not be hurt., His wife is rich and he has good health care to take care of his beginning Alzheimer's. Palin can go back to AK and finish raping the government there. Bill cannot be hurt; he has millions. Don't be swayed . Vote Democratic and get back on your feet and forget Bill; he's a politician still..

From New York   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

I really believe that he is crossing his finger hoping Obama won't win…so Hillary can run in 4 years…the problem is that if Obama won't win, he will run again in 4 years and the story continue…..and NO democratic will run our Country forever…how stupid!

Hillary can run in 8 years…didn't the old McCain????

Becky Smith   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Seriously, why this news and how does this affect voters? I couldn't care less one way or the other. This is just the media trying to find some drama.

PALIN can I ask you a question? Yes, after the election.   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

To Gary. Calm down bro.

tillman   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

YOU KNOW ONE DAY AT DEBATE CAMP,

I SAW RUSSIA FROM WY WINDOW

Hitler Youth for Obama   September 28th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Obama has yet to do something of merit.

Campaigning is not meritorious.

Being young gifted and half black makes no difference with regard to qualifications and achievements.

That description can only apply IF and WHEN Obama does something that can be called important.

The promise of change does not make a man great.

Dawn Lancaster   September 28th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Anybody that would elect John McCain, so that we could have dumb & dumber - Sarah and Iron man, DOES NOT CARE ABOUT OUR COUNTRY. Cany you imagin Sarah Palin and her husband commander and chief? Has the world gone mad?

Scott   September 28th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

He's just being honest. He's no longer running for office so he doesn't need spin anything anymore. I'm beginning to really like the man.

Give me a breake   September 28th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Bill for the sake of the us and its people shut up . And for that reason i will forgive you. No more repugS

A NATION OF WINERS for OBAMA   September 28th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

CONSIDERING A MAN THAT HAS BEEN INVOLVED

IN AS MANY SCANDALS AS BILL, GREAT IS A WAY

OF PERHAPS HOPING HE CAN FIT IN THE EYE OF

THE NEEDLE FOR THAT GREATNESS AS WELL .

BILL HAS HAD PLENTY OF OPPERTUNITIES & HE

HAS SQUANDERED ALL OF THEM, AS HAS MCSENILE.

Kevin   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

I really hope that he does a better job on the campaign trail. I'm not sure that this luke warm support does anything but create stories for the press to follow. Sen. Obama is doing great without Pres. Clinton - maybe that is best.

Slick Will   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

it's ok. deep in his heart Bill knows that Obama is a great man anyway.

GARY above, you're delusional. and you're the one who's full of hatred. do you earn 3 million $ or more? otherwise you're not very smart for supporting 8 years of the same.

Ilene   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

This is one of the reasons I couldn't get behind Hillary. Bill and Hill have been in "bed" with the Republicans forever. Hillary sold out her last universal health care plan for the republicans. Bill and Hill are dirty lying politicians and I feel Obama speaks from his heart and soul. I LOVE him. Obama is a peoples president.

john olowa   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Bill speak good about obama or forever remain silent

Duke   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Bill just cannot stomach the fact that Hillary lost to Obama. Bill made some bad political calculations during Hillary's primary and Obama's campaign team was able to capitalize, plain and simple. He can continue to have sour grapes all he wants, but yes Hillary….."he" was beaten by Obama. I was hoping that he could enthusiastically get behind this ticket for the good of the country, but if he can't, he can't.

I have lost just a little respect for him due to his actions during this election cycle.

Deverson Dumeny   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

I think Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton is doing a lot for the Obama campaign. I hope he appreciate them and use their knowledge and experience to run the country. Obama will make a great president and when he wins he will be a great roll model.

Jen   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

There' s NOTHING great about the big, purple pie-hole, Obama! And there NEVER will be.

jojodancer1119   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Clinton, your star has faded!!!!!

Jeremy   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Bill Clinton did great things for this country and indeed the entire World. He left behind a strong Economy with over $400billion surplus. The whole World was safer/peaceful and indeed our country was dozen times better than it is today.
We voters do understand his reserved feelings towards Barack Obama. It was bruishing in primaries but Bill is strong enough to move on. Let no one dought his support for Obama. He would be silent like Jimmy Carter and many others if he believed negative towards Obama. REMEMBER BILL TOOK OVER DEFICIT FROM THE SENIOR G BUSH WHO ALSO (LIKE HIS SON) SCREWED THINGS UP!

BILL SUPPORTS OBAMA………PERIOD.

Too true   September 28th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Bill has disregarded the National memo to kiss Obama's A*s- and he has not fallen prey to the media hype.

Good for Bill.

Obama has not yet done anything of merit. When he DOES accrue a resume of achievement- then and ONLY then can he be worthy of the title "great man".

So far we only have promises and speeches.

olier   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Stop lying bill! You know you are holding out hope that Obama loses so your wife can run in four years. If I were Obama I'd keep an evil eye on Bill Clinton because at this point, I do not trust him.

Dawn Lancaster   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Bill knows what he's doing. Trust him.

Annamica, OH   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Well I'm glad he isn't a sell out to the outrageous schemes the DNC has undertaken this time around. I would never call Obama a great man either.

Yvonne   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Does Bill have to be on the campaign trail?

Shane   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

He so wanted to be first husband…

No Hillary = No Obama   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Well, he's not a great man. What is so great about Obama, will somebody please explain this fascination with this guy? He sits in a racist church for 20 years listening to a pastor and mentor who spews hatred toward America and Whites; he can't bother to raise his arm to say the pledge of alligence; he doesn't wear a flag pin and he's in the senate, his wife uses patriotism as a commodity - not proud until her husband becomes a rock star and then all of a sudden finds herself surrounded by American flags and as Sarah Pallin told us, has done jack squat in the senate. He's nothing more than a wannabe, promoted by the liberal media, a talker. Bill Clinton should sit this one out - he really doesn't think much of Obama either - he just can't say it.

Copperfield   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

With friends like these…

Jesse from Berlin   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

I think I´m getting sick of all this POW Bull…….
I don`t think he´s the only one to through such things…
MCcain is the the old Uncle who always tell the same war story everyday… We´re just getting tied of it…
MCcain should just move on..

Michael, watching from Canada   September 28th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

CNN!!! What a dumb topic to highlight?

Isn't it too early for anyone to say that Obama is a great man?

Obama is still the Democrat's nominee for President? Wait until he has served as President and then ask Clinton the question!!!!!

In the meantime, why doesn't someone teach McCain that the surge was a tactic!

While the surge of some 30,000 American soldiers certainly put more American boots on the ground in neighborhoods from Anbar province to Baghdad to "clear, hold and build" them and was clearly an important element in the sharp decline in violence in the country, there are several other key underlying tactics that tamped down the mayhem in Iraq:

• First, the appearance in 2006 of the various "Awakening" movements, in which Sunni tribes once allied with al Qaeda turned against it.

• Second, the implementation of the Sons of Iraq program consisting of some 100,000 Sunni militants, many of whom used to be shooting at American soldiers, who are now on the U.S. payroll. Now that's a surge!

• Third, the previous ethnic cleansings in Iraq and the millions of Iraqi refugees who have fled their homes, meaning there are fewer potential targets of sectarian violence.

• Fourth, the large size and increasing efficacy of the Iraqi army and police, some 550,000 strong, who are now beginning to operate with some level of professionalism.

• Fifth, the increasingly nonsectarian approach of Nuri al-Maliki, the Shia prime minister, who has taken on Shiite militias in Basra and Sadr City, an important signal that the government will act in something like the national interest.

• Sixth, the cease-fires ordered in the past year or so by the leader of those Shia militants, the cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, whose position in Iraq has weakened significantly since 2007.

These other tactics helped make the surge successful.

mitch   September 28th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

media trying to divide the party,again. obama up in polls, media construes the remark , to influence the election. obama is a very good man, and i'm sure he will make an even better president than bill was. for one thing , barack has morals.

Andy in Charlotte, NC   September 28th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Clinton is hurting his party's nominee. His wife didn't run a successful campaign, although she was tough and inspired a lot of people. He should leave it at that.

And "without ever asking people to cut him any slack or feel sorry for him or any of that stuff because he was a POW"??? What is he talking about? All McCain talks about is his POW experience!! This whole election is driving me nuts. I can't wait until it's over.

Ted   September 28th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Earth to Bill. your country needs you, Obama needs you. Stand up and be counted . McCain and Palin would run the country into the ground and yes in 4 years Hillary might have another chance. But after 4 years of those two even Hillary is no magican. You have helped people all over the world and now in their time of real need its time to help the American people, and elect a president who a least has a chance of leading us through some hard times. There is so much lies and spin coming out of the McCain camp I hear an amusement park wants to name a ride after them the McCain Spin.

Charles   September 28th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Clinton is the new Joe Lieberman.

Is he off his meds the past two weeks?

This campaign is bizarre enough with MCCain's errattic behavior , now we have Bill Clinton going over the edge too?

chris   September 28th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Bill Clinton seems to forget his own humble beginnings, no one would have called him a great man before he was elected president,
and unfortunately for him because of his loose morals and now petty jealousy chances are no one ever will.

Too funny   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

I guess having no track record of achievement, but just being able to deliver a scripted speech well is now enough to designate one a "great man"

AP   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Jesus, Bill. Just shut up already.

Mel in GA   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Well, I saw this interview and Bill did say that Obama is the kind of leader we need someone that is good at the start and continues to get better……

Obama/Biden

IndependentTogether   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Bill Clinton knows that if McCain wins, the country would go even further down the tubes. This, of course, will further cast a positive light on his 8 years as POTUS. Conversely, if Obama wins, there is a potential for the Clinton legacy to appear mediocre, at best. Bill Clinton knows this; that's why he can only offer Obama faint praise, while showering praise on Palin… someone who is clearly unfit to be anywhere near the White House.

elb   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Gary, what are you talking about? Whose throat, exactly, has Obama cut? I was a Hillary supporter, too, but SHE DIDN'T WIN. And no matter WHAT my feelings are about her loss, I (along with every true Democrat) would be SO MUCH HAPPIER to see Obama/Biden in office than the train wreck that is McCain/Palin. Swallow your disappointment and look at which candidate really supports your views.

deborah, WV   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

How could he call McCain "a great man"

Is he ignoring that McCain has run one of the most dirty, misleading and Rove-driven campagins in the history of our country? McCain has done nothing but lie, mislead and divert, not to mention pick one of the least qualified VPs ever!!!

Gee Bill . . . would you get the knife out of Senator Obama's back!

Remy   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Bill praised McCain too much. Bill skipped the draft and went to England. If he was against the Vietnam war, how can he praise McCain who involved in the war? Something is missing!

David Goldman   September 28th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

WHEN WILL BILL GIVE UP THE

POSITION OF AN ANGRY HOWLER MONKEY ?

IF ANY LIVING PERSON HAS A CHANCE

FOR GREATNESS IS BARACK OBAMA.

& IF ANYBODY ON EARTH HAS SQUANDERED

THAT OPPORTUNITY IS BILL CLINTON.

Silent John   September 28th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Seriously, GIVE IT UP ALREADY!

THis storyline is getting SO FREAKING OLD!

SO IS YOUR CESORSHIP OF COMMENTS!

YOUR COMMENT IS AWAITING MODERATION! ENOUGH CENSORSHIP!!!!

Maggie   September 28th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Seriously, Hillary reign Bill in- if you are even still remotely married. All of the damaging things he has said during this campaign and his lack of support really lead to one thing- many, many Dems have tired of the Clintons and Hillary can forget about ever being President.

Moon over your 'bammy   September 28th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Normally men have to DO great things and prove themselves before they are considered to be "great" men.

Obama has done NOTHING of merit.

Obama is a hype of his own creation that has been peddled by a media that has lost its ability to scrutinize.

Karen   September 28th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Obama had better keep Bill away! He is such a destructive force, his "non-support" of the democratic candidate so far is beyond hypocrisy. Obama surely does not need such so-called supporters. We can see that Bill has gone down the sewer during the primary, and for him to come out now and say anything good about Obama is sheer dishonesty and he would be made out to be a bigger liar. He has always proven himself to be a selfish jerk, with all his affairs, and is in fact a disgrace to the presidency. His legacy is already down the drain and he should just go away for the sake of the party and for all of us.

Hillary   September 28th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Shut up Bill with your Palin sweet talk and go an the campaihn trail for Obama as you indicated doing.

I don't wanna hear another word about Sarah Palin, ok?

alvino   September 28th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

So the "Keating Kid" is a great man and Obama is not. Do I detect a little jealousy? Even with all her corruption and abuse problems, Sarah Palin may be a better man than McCain.

jim   September 28th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

bill…. I used to think you were a great man… not any more

Anon   September 28th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Clinton needs to choose sides - REP or DEM - b'cos right now, he's beginning to sound like a REP

Griff   September 28th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

Barack Obama would have to do something, to earn that name or any other. If he is Elected.. He will.. He will be a Great Disaster!!

Gorbashov   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

What are McCain/Palin trying to hide?

Release your health records Mr.McCain.

90 minutes with a few select journalists doesn't do it.

This is most important given your poor choice of VP nominee!

WHAT ARE YOU HIDING SIR????

THE AMERICAN PUBLIC DESERVES TO KNOW!!!!

Phantom of the Oprah   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

On what basis would he call Obama a great man? Obama has done nothing but run a very slick, well funded, dirty campaign.

Is that what makes him a great man?

And what is Bill?   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Bill his a little high on himself isn't he?

Erik   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Shut up shut up shut up shut up. Do you really want your wife to be president in 2012 more than you want the country back on track?!

berksdan   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Frankly, whatever Bill Clinton thinks is irrelevant.

Lynn: 60 yr old white Obama supporter   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

So Obama's greatness lies ahead of him….as the 44th President. CNN left out his explanation of how Obama shows the ability to understand the present and the futrre and to build policy to reflect that vision. Clinton used Obama's health care and energy policy as examples of Obama's intelligence and grasp of the issues.

To understand Clinton's remarks you really need to listen to the wjole exchange.

Paul Newman on aging/retiring: "You start to lose your memory, you start to lose your confidence, you start to lose your invention."

Greg FL.   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

They need to send Bill home. His heart isn't in it and he is not helping. It is very obvious that he does not like Obama. And as such is no help to the campaign and may actually be hurting it.

mama sue   September 28th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Does he not even realize that if McCain and Palin win this election, Palin could very well become the first female president? Although, come to think of it, he did nothing but cause trouble for Hillary during her campaign… Maybe there isn't room in their house for two presidents!

Jesse from Berlin   September 28th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

How sore can one be?…
She was beaten fair and square….
It was the people who choose Obama…
He of all people should know better…
What about party first?

Selected by hate and division and race card   September 28th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Me too

Maggie   September 28th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

The Clinton's never saw Obama coming.

Nico   September 28th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

Is it just me, or does it seem that Obama will win hands down so long as the Clintons don't have anything to do with it?

stacy   September 28th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

President Clinton knows who the better man is for President.

Jasmine   September 28th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

Mr. President, could you be just a little more supportive or committed? I'm beginning to wonder who you are campaigning for.

BM   September 28th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

As I have always said, Bill Clinton is a smart man and it takes the average person days to figure out what he is saying. I think Clinton has to protect his legacy and I'm sure Hillary will hold an important position in is cabinet, so I do think they are sincere. If Sarah Palin gets in, I'm not so sure. Hillary will be too much competition for her and you must agree with her or else and I don't see Hillary taking a backseat to anyone.

D from MI   September 28th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

Palin's interview with Katie Couric:

Palin resembled, "a high-schooler trying to BS her way through a book report," which is an insult to both high-schoolers and B.S.

Palin: "Just ask me about pitpulls, pigs, and lipstick."

Dr. Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   September 28th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

BILL CLINTON WILL NEVER BE CALLED

A GREAT MAN. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY

NO HISTORY BOOK IN THE HISTORY OF

POLITICS OR MANKIND THAT WILL CALL

MCSLEAZY A GREAT MAN, EITHER.

Brian   September 28th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

Jee.

Stop trying to picture Bill as a deuchbag, he has tried really hard to support Obama, and he does support Obama,

Give him some slack,

cr   September 28th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

Well I sure wouldn't call Bill Clinton a great man…. mediocre politician, questionable man. I respect Hillary.

Ron was a REP now a DEM   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Help the Democrats don't need

Natalee in Canada   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Mr. Clinton is still having a hard time accepting the fact that not only did the Clinton name not appear on the ballot this year, but that Barack Obama, has done things Bill did not accomplish in his first campaign…and if Americans are smart and make a smart choice in November, Bill Clinton will lose his status as the first "African-Amercian" President. Barack Obama inspires me…and I'm not even from your Country…more than Bill Clinton ever did. I think Bill Clinton is having a bit of a hard time accepting this…

McCain for Pres.   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

President Clinton has no choice but to support Obama.. He said what he really felt about him before he was given the nomination. So did Joe Biden and Hillary. HE IS NOT READY TO BE PRESIDENT. HE DOESN'T HAVE ENOUGH EXPERIENCE. Nothing has changed except that he got the nomination. How could that change what they know is the truth, its impossible if they are honest.

Ian M   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Another breathless headline about a Clinton. Geez, can't the media vultures find someone else to hover over? You've had Billary for close to 20 years now, you've picked them dry, no one cares about them anymore.

e.Rivera   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Maybe Clinton isn't entirely convinced - hes one of those undecided voters. I know he said hes a committed, loyal democrat, but the language isn't entirely coming out like so.

I think Obama can still put him to work in Florida, North Carolina and Virginia regardless he'll still bring in voters for the democrats on election day.

GARY   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

CLINTON KNOWS WHAT OBAMA REALLY IS. A CHICAGO DIRTY POLITICIAN ,THAT WILL CUT ANYBODY'S THROAT TO WIN. LOOK HOW HE GOT 5THE DNC ETC TO SWIFTBOAT HRC OUT OF THE RACE. HE HAS DONE THE SAME TO OTHERS IN CHICAGO.HE IS NOTHING BUT A CON MAN, MEDIA CLOWN ,ARROGANT SHOWBOAT. HIS FOLLOWERS ARE LITTE PUPPETS BEHIND THEIR MASTER, AND FULL OF HATE. CLINTON'S ARE SMART, BUT MEDIA IS BUILD UP AROUND OBAMA ,WHAT BIAS JERKS.

Joseph Regis   September 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Between the sublime and the ridiculus, there is only one step.

Bill is a great man and Obama has proven himself capable to achieve greatness.

Obama/Biden 08/12.

R. Cooper   September 28th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

This is just a nice way of saying McCain is history!

NoMccain   September 28th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Well of course… this isn't big news. He was accused of being racist. He is in a precarious position. He still backs Obama… now move on.

Jeff Brown   September 28th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Bill, you are an angry man and your legacy will be ruined by the way you treat Obama!

Theogracias   September 28th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Bill's still riding dirty.

Doh!   September 28th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Bill is still trying to swallow defeat.

witch   September 28th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

I am a very big fan of yours Mr Clinton,but I find myself at a loss for all your comments on McCain and Palin. I feel that your suoport is somewhat lacking for Obama. Please step up and try your hardest.

opeluboy   September 28th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

Thanks for all your help, Bill. They must just love you in Harlem right about now.

Chanel   September 28th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

And he wonders why people say he's really campaigning for McCain.

Julie   September 28th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Why doesnt Clinton just go and sit down somewhere??? We get it, your pissed your wife didn't win the nomination, but if you're not going to support Obama, just shut your mouth! If you were thinking that HIllary would have a chance to run in 2012 or 2016, well you just killed it, Bill, and you betray her everytime you ruin her chances, the same way you betrayed her with Monica.. Nice..real nice

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