December 1, 2008
Posted: December 1st, 2008 09:56 AM ET

From
Bill Clinton will be absent when his wife is formally nominated as Secretary of State.
Bill Clinton will be absent when his wife is formally nominated as Secretary of State.

(CNN) - Former President Bill Clinton won’t be on hand this morning when President-elect Barack Obama officially nominates Sen. Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State, according to sources familiar with the transition.

Obama will unveil the full team at a press conference at the Chicago Hilton at 10:40 a.m. ET

Obama is also expected to finally confirm that he is keeping Defense Secretary Robert Gates in his current post, and plans to name retired Marine Gen. Jim Jones as his National Security Adviser at the White House.

Watch: Ed Henry discusses the security team rollout

Also, two sources close to the transition said Obama will nominate Susan Rice as United Nations ambassador, Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano as Homeland Security secretary and Eric Holder as Attorney General.

Some unfinished business from the primary season is heading toward a resolution as the former rivals take the stage this morning: Hillary Clinton has been assured by the Obama team that they will help her fundraise in the next 60 days to help clear her remaining campaign debt of roughly $6.5 million.

The status of another open question with roots in the contentious Democratic primary contest remains unresolved: the future status of Samatha Power. The Obama advisor who had to resign after calling Hillary Clinton "a monster" is currently on the transition team's "agency review team" for the State Department. She has apologized twice to Clinton, according to two Democratic sources, who say Clinton accepted the apology. But it is still unclear whether Power will have a job at the State Department with Clinton in charge.

Update: Bill Clinton praised his wife's nomination Monday. "As an American, I am thankful that President-elect Barack Obama has asked Hillary to be Secretary of State and that she has accepted. As her husband, I am deeply proud," the former president said in a statement.

"She is the right person for the job of helping to restore America's image abroad, end the war in Iraq, advance peace and increase our security, by building a future for our children with more partners and fewer adversaries, one of shared responsibilities and opportunities.


"She has already earned the respect of foreign leaders and diplomats through her work to promote human rights and the empowerment of women through access to education, healthcare and economic opportunity. And Americans know, from her leadership in the Senate on national security, that she will always put the security, values and the interests of our people first.

"In her service to the people of New York and our nation, Hillary has demonstrated the knowledge, passion, resilience, and capacity to learn that our country needs at this critical time. She loves being a Senator from New York, but as she has in all the thirty-seven years I've known her, she answered the call to serve. I commend President-Elect Obama for asking her to be a part of a great national security team. America will be well-served."

Filed under: Barack Obama • Bill Clinton • Hillary Clinton


Phil in Albuquerque   December 2nd, 2008 4:24 pm ET

@Sam December 1st, 2008 3:0 pm ET

The taxpayers are not being asked to pay Hillary's campaign debt. BO will probably ask his supporters to go to her web site and make a donation. Then he will attend a few big ticket fund raisers where anyone who can afford it and are so inclined can pay to eat lunch or dinner with the two of them. I donated to the Obama campaign twice during the primary and once for the general election. I'm still an Obama supporter. Hillary is OK, but she won't get a penny from me. See, we all have a choice. I suspect they will retire her debt in no time. Just not with my help.

Sam   December 1st, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Romney paid with his own money during his campaign.
I sincerely don't understand why the tax payers should pay for Hillary's debts.
She has enough money to take care of that!

Gaylon Barrow   December 1st, 2008 3:03 pm ET

CHERYL – You are so right. Only the lowest of the low would call Obama a house negro. I am white and I am downright tired of this racist profiling. There is not one skin in this world better than another. Only you atheist donkey rears would state such nonsense. I advise you to read your Bibles. I didn't vote for Obama. But, he is my President and I take offense to anyone calling him names. I did not spend 28-years in the Army helping to defend this country to see some idiot make statements of racist terms to anyone who is Commander-in-Chief.

John Q. Cynic   December 1st, 2008 2:56 pm ET

It's Hillary's time, she has been handed the ball on first down, and it's Bill, who is the locker room trainer. The Clinton's are smart, they know how cabinet positions function, and he followed a personal edicate......unless it was lunch time in DC, when the announcements were scheduled. We all remember that Bill loves tasty food.

Melanie McCready   December 1st, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Hillary was nominated for SOS so Obama can mortify her internationally in a few months. The two republicans were nominated so Obama can fire them in a few months to make a spectacle of the "awful Bush doctrine". Obama is not the angel his supporters think he is. Time and pressures will bring it all out into the open.

Lorna, NY   December 1st, 2008 2:49 pm ET

From some of the posts, I can't believe there are so many IDIOTS in this country. I am glad that PE Obama will focus on education an. We need to educate these stupids! It amazes me that we are a country of group thinkers. No wonder we rank 47 in world literacy, Cuba ranks number 1. And we have the nerve to talk about Cuba, at least their citizens can read and think independently.

Melanie McCready   December 1st, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Don't you think for a moment that former President Clinton will swallow all this. He will not be instructed by some upstart teenybopper president-elect how to conduct his life.

Bill Clinton   December 1st, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Guess that'll get Hillary out of my hair for a while!

JOYCE   December 1st, 2008 2:38 pm ET

FROM ARKANSAS
god bless pe obama and hillary and bill
a special god bless you
and GOD BLESS THE ENTIRE WORLD.
IT IS A GREAT DAY TO BE AN AMERICAN

Mike Dallas   December 1st, 2008 2:38 pm ET

To all the dittoheads, the lawsuit filed by a dittohead to verify Obama's birth certificate, has been dismissed without merit by the presiding judge.

Perhaps if you got the complete news from cable news and not from the fat, bald, pill popper you would know this.

But, I forget you like the small sound bites fed to you just like your morning pabulum that mommy still spoon feeds you.

Change   December 1st, 2008 2:36 pm ET

It's a starting to look like Bushie everywhere i go! How is that change working out for everyone?

Simmy   December 1st, 2008 2:35 pm ET

SEEK HELP! ALL MALCONTENTS! I PITY THE FOOL.......

yellow dog democrat   December 1st, 2008 2:33 pm ET

PS to Southern Girl – I like your G.R.I.T.!! excellent comments :)

Barry Soetoro   December 1st, 2008 2:31 pm ET

John really is right you know.

When does postpartisanship begin?   December 1st, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Even when the story is not about Sarah Palin, her critics cannot control themselves.

yellow dog democrat   December 1st, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Bill knows full well that Hillary has won and earned this moment – her moment – not his. He doesn't want to appear as her "prop".

I am proud that Hillary has reached this stage in her political career.....she has worked very hard and deserves our support and respect.

Too Busy   December 1st, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Bill won't be there because he is busy shredding documents on his foundation. Sleeze.

I guess his "hands off" on direct management of the good ole boys foundation will be to appoint Chelsea to run it.

Dear God I had hoped to never see a Clinotn before the camera again as long as I lived. I trusted Obama to make the right choices and other than these 2 he definitely has. But now it's starting to look like Clinton 3.0 and I am afraid he will be overshadowed by 2 Clintons pushing each other off the stage.

Ron.Toronto. Canada   December 1st, 2008 2:25 pm ET

60 year old Whitefemale.

I am a 76year old whitemale born in England. I was taught in school
waaaay back in in 1944 to only believe only 25% of what you read
in the media.
To some of the other bloggers. If what you are writing is true. Don't
worry , you will be able to vote Sarah in about two yearsfrom now.

Rachel   December 1st, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I think Obama is doing fine and I think Hillary will do a good job for him. I see some are still harping about Obama's birth certificate. Get over it! There is no proof that he was not born in the United States. You just can't stand the thought he won. We finally get someone smart, I should say brilliant, in the white house and we have nit picking from the peanut gallery! We've got a lot of people but no wisdom and that is why Obama got the majority of Electorial and Popular votes! People (encluding the press) have discovered within Obama is a very intellegent wise man. So wise up and support our President. Either that or go to some other country. As Nixon once said "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!"

gregg   December 1st, 2008 2:22 pm ET

texas teacher,, what do u really teach.. i thank i was not 1 of your students,,, do u really think the god of the world is qualified ? 137 days in the senate working? no wonder he has surrounded his self with the clintons,, he needs all the help he can get,, a democrat for 25 years who voted for mcain

GOP=Epic Fail   December 1st, 2008 2:16 pm ET

That's right Bill.....step back and let your wife go solo, you're a great husband for not sharing the stage with your wife; because you know that this is Hillary's OWN merit that got her where she is.

unlike Todd Palin who lurched all over his wife like a abusive stalker of a husband, leeching the spotlight off his own wife's merit.

Hillary = progress

Sarah = regress

C.T.   December 1st, 2008 2:12 pm ET

John, Please tell the rest of the world you are not as stupid as you sound.

kyle from ohio   December 1st, 2008 2:07 pm ET

JuanM: You must be joking "that there is really no difference between Repub and Dems. After the last 16 years 8 with Clinton and 8 with Bush. How about World view and economic growth etc......

Ron.Toronto. Canada   December 1st, 2008 2:06 pm ET

This is for Janey!
Get your facts straight. Canada did not vote in the Conservative
party by a landslide. The Conservative party called an early
election so they could get a majority government. It did not work
They are no diffrent than your Repubs. That is why I did not vote for
this time. The world has changed and the Repubs. agenda no
longer functions. ITS TIME FOR CHANGE!!!!!!!!! 56million
Americans thought so.

Jenn   December 1st, 2008 1:57 pm ET

yeah right

Jenn   December 1st, 2008 1:56 pm ET

BigDenver December 1st, 2008 10:35 am ET

The only "real change' is Obama's Mind….note there will be no tax increase on those making more than $250,000…..only "change" so far is the threat of more give aways……oh excuse me "entitlements"….how about a tax holiday to get the econmy moving so people that can work have to work….looks like a lot of DS insiders on HIS team!

It was down to $150,000 by election day, by the time he is sworn in it will be down another $100,000 to $50,000 and that means most of America will be getting NO tax cut only a tax INCREASE.
The man has changed his mind and his policies over and over again to fit his political needs. That's not change that's just the good old boys club at work again

He states it's his policies that are the change not the people in place to enforce them

Terri   December 1st, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Michelleitis? Wearing prints? Thank God, that we're focused on the important things. Not.

Texas Teacher   December 1st, 2008 1:49 pm ET

At the risk of sounding totally redundant! People, it does not matter where Obama was born!!

His MOTHER was an American Citizen; therefore, HE IS!

So, there is absolutely NO REASON for the man to lie about the issue!

What? Do you think that our military men and American business people with their families in foreign lands birth children who are NOT American citizens?

Come on..... open your minds and THINK... this is not Rocket Science... it is simple LOGIC!

Get over it, Repubs.... stop listening to Rush Limbaugh! You LOST! Seriously.... I mean REALLY! :)

Like it or not.... Barack Obama and Bill Biden are the new Administration! :)

Terri   December 1st, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Another excellent pick from our President-Elect.

Terri   December 1st, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Another excellent pick from out President-Elect.

kasera   December 1st, 2008 1:46 pm ET

why should he have to attend? by the way for doubters of clintonites........Clinton brought prosperity to America than any other president in a generation.......so give him a break and leave him alone

Texas Teacher   December 1st, 2008 1:42 pm ET

And where would he be, if he was on hand? What what? Did you expect him to be standing behind Hillary with his arms around her? *LOL*

I am quite sure that both Bill and Hillary are both committed to working with Barack Obama to make this country and the world a better place than it is now! And I think they can.... together with the rest of the Cabinet! And I am quite sure that Bill is well aware that HILLARY has been named SOS, not himself! Bill and Hillary Clinton have been wonderful public servants, and will continue to be so as long as they live. Barack Obama is well qualified to be President. His choice of Cabinet confirms that to my mind!

I think the Media needs to cool it a bit.... I don't think I ever heard the Bush/Cheney administration criticized for their judgement or their choices for the Cabinet. It was much more like... Wow... isn't it just hunky-dorry! and COOL! and.... like that!

Please, CNN, report what is happening. Stop trying to shape it! Let us know the truth... not your suppositions! We can judge for ourselves. And NOT just CNN... .I notice a certain amount of cynicism from all the media that I find very frustrating and surely did not see in regard to Bush/Cheney even at their worst.

Obama is NOT even in office yet. Do you truly anticipate that he is not going to be qualified to do the job? Because that is how you are coming off to this old Indian Texas Teacher.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   December 1st, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Probably for the best, but I'd have rather seen Bill be SOS than Hill. But he'll be there, in essence, anyway.

Phil in KC   December 1st, 2008 1:40 pm ET

How many of the other spouses were on hand? If all were there, then Bill probably should have been there also. If none, then he should not have been. In any case, his presence might tend to over-shadow the event. So maybe it's best he didn't show up.

boered1   December 1st, 2008 1:39 pm ET

@clifford December 1st, 2008 10:30 am ET

I know it hurt's and it's hard to admit and you'll make endless excuses for him but I think you Obama supporters have been "BAMBOOZLED".
______________________________________________________

Actually what YOU fail to realize is that we Obama supporters ACTUALLY UNDERSTOOD and READ his platform, we looked at what he SAID he was going to do instead of just listening to the liar hillary tell us about what he was going to do and the idiot republicans smear him by telling us what he was going to doand the "news" telling us what he was going to do and UNDERSTOOD it and are NOT surprised nor hurt by seeing him do JUST HAT HE SAID HE WOULD (with a few minor exceptions like repealing the tax givaway to the wealthy which I understand because I saw what happened wo Wall Street TODAY when they were worried we did not buy enough this weekend)

So nope not hurt, nor surprised he is doing exactly what we knew he would.. sorry that you did not bother to do your research before the election and are now surprised!

Idiot

NY republican   December 1st, 2008 1:32 pm ET

pam – Of course Bill will continue to stay home. He's extatic that his wife will out of the country "solving the world's problems" :)

hilary   December 1st, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Euromade:

Seeing that you insist on making a big deal out of his middle name, I doubt you'd recognize change if it hit you in the face.

silver bells   December 1st, 2008 1:29 pm ET

why should he???

Cindy   December 1st, 2008 1:28 pm ET

This must be hard for Bill. He didn't want to see his wife work for Obama, he wanted Obama to work for his wife. He wasn't able to do it for her. And now Obama has forced him to do things he didn't want to do (release his donor list and get his speeches pre-approved... which, I'm sure, will never happen, since he never writes them ahead of time anyway...)

If anybody can reign in the Clintons... Obama can. How amazing is that?

I find I'm respecting Hillary again... she knows what must be done to repair the damage done by the previous administration, and she's obtained the right position to do it. She's going to be a fantastic Secretary of State, despite her husband.

No Hillary = No Obama   December 1st, 2008 1:28 pm ET

If Bill had missed a few of Hillary's campaign stops maybe Hillary would be Prez now.

Camereon Data   December 1st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

What about the genocide in Rwanda that the Clintons and Susan Rice wer unable to stop. They all were against the UN troops to save lifes. Obama change is backward!!! I cannot wait to vote for a Republican president in 2012. My vote to Obama was a big mistake. He does not GET IT at all!!

boered1   December 1st, 2008 1:22 pm ET

why would bubba be preent.. contrary to the what the
news" organizations think he was not even running this election nor should he have any say in Obama's government.. bad enough he had to use the liar hillary.. but I can still hope that after 6 months he will fire her for incompetency and remove the clintons forever from the scene.. what a beautiful dream that is.....

Larry   December 1st, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Bill would make a lot of since to be our Secretary of State–He knows everybody,he has worked with them and is respected-NOT his wife!!

Milhouse van Houten   December 1st, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Was it Bills'choice or did the Obama people tell him to get lost.

Ia Guy   December 1st, 2008 1:19 pm ET

@pam Eugene OR

-------

The Clintons are here to stay, I suggest you drink some Kool-aide and relax before you have an aneurism. Oh and news flash: the election is over already.

Susan C.   December 1st, 2008 1:16 pm ET

I wish the press will not continue to promote stories as to
whether Bill Clinton attends or doesn't attend moments in his
wife's career. Let Hillary have her own career, own moments–we don't need reports on Bill's whereabouts. She's her own person!

Ranea   December 1st, 2008 1:14 pm ET

The title of this article is "Bill Clinton will not appear at Obama Announcement", but the article never states WHY he won't appear at the announcement. Doesn't he want to "appear" to support his wife (even if he doesn't in reality)?? If I were being nominated as Secretary of State I certainly would want my husband there for the one-time occasion. The writer is either in error for leaving it out or misleading with the title since it's the teaser to the reader.

Georgia for Martin   December 1st, 2008 1:10 pm ET

I am so happy for Hillay Clinton she would be a great secretary of State.... Better days are coming.

President Obama do your thing we love you

Obama 08   December 1st, 2008 1:08 pm ET

He's needs to pick Chuck Hagel for a position.

Lauren   December 1st, 2008 1:08 pm ET

You have got to be kidding me !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama is going to help pay off Hillarys debt,,, pay her own

Phil in Albuquerque   December 1st, 2008 1:05 pm ET

This story is stupid non-news, undeserving of comment.
All of you haters need to get a grip. You say we've been "bamboozled". On the strength of a few cabinet picks and before he has even been sworn in, you say there will be no change. You are not Nostradamus (what is plural for ignoramus?) And since you can't predict the future, I take all of your comments for what they are: SOUR GRAPES. History will tell if Obama brings change. He won. Get over it. Life is too short to spend so much time swilling Hater Aid.

Theresa   December 1st, 2008 1:04 pm ET

I am glad Obama has a clear vision for the future and where the country needs to go. Having Bill Clinton there does not matter at all. The important thing is that he supports the EP and his cabinet.

karen raleigh   December 1st, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Please keep Bill out of the picture most of the time.

fl;yinga2   December 1st, 2008 1:00 pm ET

To Euromade:
4 years of "Clinton and his (her) cronies will hopefully disembowel the likes of you and YOUR racist cronies, and rid you from the public/political forums. Your rhetoric steeped with hatred and ignorance are what foments the ideologies of race hatred and terrorism throughout the world. You should be cast in Hell, without parole.

Gloria   December 1st, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Euromade is a dope!!! Obviously you have not learned the hard lessons of the republicans & their cronies!!!

karen-phoenix   December 1st, 2008 12:52 pm ET

I've been a republican for over 40 years but this year I voted for Obama and we are becoming blessed by his strong choices in his cabinet. This is the first time in my adult life I am really proud of my country and our president (PS: I'm white). I just finished reading Audacity of Hope and you people that think Obama is the wrong guy, just take a few days and read the Audacity of Hope! It is pretty bipartisian and paints his picture for the American future in political terms. It also is a history book and explains a lot I did not understand growing up. Please, before all of you that seem to be against Obama, read his book!!! God sent him to us for a reason at a very stressful time in world history!!! Listen and learn!!! We all might beable to win!!!

Sophia in Canada   December 1st, 2008 12:52 pm ET

I don't see the purpose of Bill Clinton being there.
Were there other spouses there?
Let's move on people !!

jd   December 1st, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Im sure he is off somewhere chasing another skirt. Just hope that Hillary does not hit him with another ashtray. Poor Chelsey still doesn't no who is the father of this disfuntional family.

Bob   December 1st, 2008 12:46 pm ET

I think Hilliary is a great choice. I am sure Bill is proud of her and very happy for him and her.
She will be traveling more now than ever and Bill will be home alone. Alone? Probably not-What a great opportunity for him! LOL

earle,florida   December 1st, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Why doesn't Bill just divorce Hillary? What a joke for a,"marri-mirage",so typically american....

Ken K   December 1st, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Well, as a former President, he probably doesn't want to draw attention away from the focus of the event, which is to name new cabinet members for the new administration – it's their event.

I don't recall other former Presidents attending these events as a matter of protocol, and I don't think that spousal attendance is required. Sounds to me like Mr. Clinton made the correct call.

I don't see the story being remarkable enough to merit the sarcastic and nasty comments being left here.

sick n tired   December 1st, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Once again Obama proving that he IS ready to lead and smart enough to make intelligent decisions. A nice change from the D student moron we had the last 8 years! Bottom line.............Bush is a joke!

Bill Clinton   December 1st, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Our master plan is working...

Brennan, Seattle WA   December 1st, 2008 12:37 pm ET

Who cares what Bill Clinton does?

Are we really going to have to hear about this for the next 8 years?

......President Obama had a meeting with SOS Clinton and Bill Clinton did not attend.....President Obama and SOS Clinton had dinner together and Bill Clinton didn't attend.

This is fabricated news. Bill Clinton is not part of this administration. Obama will be a great President and Hillary will be a great SOS, enough said. Now lets see what they do.

Hall for Obama   December 1st, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Max: Why do you want to see Obama birth certificate? Oh, you must want to see if it has black or white on it for race. Well it may have other on it. GET OVER IT. HE IS THE POTUSA. Did you ask for any of the other people birth certificate?

sick n tired   December 1st, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Once again Obama proving that he IS ready to lead and smart enough to make intelligent decisions. A nice change from the D student moron we had the last 8 years!

California Gold   December 1st, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Hope Samantha Power remains with President elect Obama and his administration. We need all the critical thinkers we can get and he should be surrounded with people who aren't timid to voice their perspectives.

As for Senator Clinton, hands down the Clintons are widely respected abroad. I have heard nothing but praise for Senator Clinton and President Clinton throughout the middle east. Certainly her appointment as Secretary of State will be received well. Hope she is up to the job.

sick n tired   December 1st, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Once again Obama proving that he IS ready to lead and smart enough to make intelligent decisions. A nice change from the D student moron we had the last 8 years!

Mari   December 1st, 2008 12:34 pm ET

@ JOHN AND ALL THE OTHER HATE MONGERS:

PROVE TO US, THAT OUR NEW PRESIDENT IS NOT AN AMERICAN CITIZEN.......... OH ..........SHUT..........UP!

YOU CAN'T PROVE IT...........BECAUSE BARACK OBAMA .......IS......A .......CITIZEN......... OF OUR ......NATION!

******STOP THE LIES********** STOP THE HATE*****************

J.P.   December 1st, 2008 12:34 pm ET

What, was there an unattended "Monica" somewhere that needed attending? Yep, there's that Hope and Change I keep hearing so much about.

Sorry, Barry, Bubba and Cankles, you can "keep the change."

Change - Yeah Left   December 1st, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Even Bill knows a joke when he sees it in Office.

Chelsea   December 1st, 2008 12:33 pm ET

umm..John....Hawaii...Is one of our 50 states... problem solved. And his birth certificate was posted online for EVERYONE to see, but I guess you were too busy reading the crazed crap put out by the McCain camp to notice that. And Enemyofmine...Welcome to the 21st century...we have done away with slavery and segregation..oh..and GUESS WHAT ELSE..woman can vote now... crazy..I know..Uhggg.. people like YOU are what make the rest of us look bad in the eyes of the rest of the world..

hugh ~ california   December 1st, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Anti-Hillary people who support Obama–get over it. Be part of the solution or be part of the problem, it doesn't help to be negative.

clramsay   December 1st, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Do you really think that Hillary and McCain would have let a non native born American become president if they had proof? Are you nuts??

euromade   December 1st, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Is this is the change Hussein Obama promised to all his supporters!

4 years of the Clintons and their cronies.

Uncle Sam   December 1st, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Why do Democrats and Republicans hate one another?
The world is much too small for that.

Casey   December 1st, 2008 12:17 pm ET

You know, as much as everybody has been talking about sexism in politics over the past year or so, I find this statement that is running across the CNN political ticker to be a bit outlandish. Yes, I realize that Bill Clinton is "Former President" Bill Clinton, and that that makes his presence or absence more noticeable. But, of all the other appointees that Obama is making, how often do you hear about whether or not their spouses are there for the announcement. I mean–I don't know a tremendous amount about how the procedure of things works at such a level, but, for instance, this Jim Jones guy, is his wife there for this press conference??? Is Robert Gates' wife there??? Is Neapolitano's husband showing up for things yet??? Why is it newsworthy just because Bill Clinton is not attached to Hillary's hip???? I'm sure he'll be at the inauguration...sheesh...give this sillyness a break!!!

Dave   December 1st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Of course he's happy. The CFR, Bilderberg, Rhodes boy is glad to be back in the DC loop. Not that he was ever out of it.

SamanthaPowersRocks   December 1st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Samantha Power should be given a high profile position she is smart and would bring a Progressive voice in his Admin.

Barry Soetoro   December 1st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

John is still right.

G.R.I.T.S. - Girl Raised in the South   December 1st, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Lauren said: ...The Dems are ready, willing and able to accept her apology. ... But they continue to bash Sarah Palin at every chance they get. And Bush also. You always see post on here about how bad Bush is, how they can not wait until he is gone and the Messiah is in power. But yet when one of thier own asks to be forgiven,,, all is well.

-----
Lauren, you ignorant twit – let me explain this so you can understand. Samantha Powers' apology was accepted, as was Lieberman's, because they asked for it. Neither Palin nor Bush have EVER, not once, asked to be forgiven for their lies and deceptions. If, and this is a big IF, either of them publicly apologized for lying, spreading falsities in the name of truth (i.e. WMD or palling around with terrorists, "kill him", monkeys with Obama stickers, etc.), and generally deceiving their worshipers, they would deserve forgiveness as well. Since that has not and never will happen, they remain unforgiven by the majority of us.

BillforSOS   December 1st, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Why was not Bill given the job of SOS?

Gino   December 1st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

@Wild Bill. It's "bated" breath not "baited" breath. That you don't know this simply makes your comments even more dense.

Bill   December 1st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

President William Jefferson Clinton was a great president for eight years. Those years were nothing like the Bush years of economic downturn and war.
Critics judge him for the scandal, but on job performance he was one of our most competent presidents. By the way, probably half our Presidents were not faithful to their wives during office.

ANAG LOS ANGELES, CA   December 1st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

go away bill.

amabobama   December 1st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

To the birth-certificate doubters including Enemy-of-mine and anybody who regards Obama as an alien or "house negro": You forget that real Americans (the majority) have pronounced racial distinctions meaningless when applied to elected officers. From now on, your remarks all sound unAmerican.

amabobama

A, sf   December 1st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Of course, Bill C. will fatten his bank accounts even more in 8 years. Good plan for $, for the Clinton team.

amabobama   December 1st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

To the birth-certificate doubters including Enemy-of-mine and anybody who regards Obama as an alien or "house negro": You forget that real Americans (the majority) have pronounced racial distinctions meaningless when applied to elected officers. From now on, your remarks all sound unAmerican.

A, sf   December 1st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Of course, Bill C. fatten his bank accounts even more in 8 years. Good plan for $, for the Clinton team.

Rob Johnson   December 1st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

If Obama is capable of keeping Bill Clinton away from a photo op, maybe he really does have supernatural powers!

All joking aside, this tells you how much Hillary wants this job, and how tired she is of standing in her husband's shadow.

Kaye- Jacksonville FL   December 1st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I have to laugh at the drama machine of the media – trust me, Samantha Power and Hillary Clinton are big girls who know how to navigate national politics. So much is made of contentious times in the campaign but these professional public servants know the difference between the past and the future. I expect Ms Powers will play a significant role, officially or otherwise, and Ms Clinton will respect the expertise and contributions of Ms Powers, hands down.

I must keep looking – for a news outlet that focuses on NEWS instead of petty drama and muckraking. I'm about to cry "Uncle" to Wolf Blitzer – drives me crazy with his alarmist reporting.

FreeNLovIt   December 1st, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Ther's no time to fight internally. We need to THINK as ONE. We have RUSSIA, NK, Iran, and that whole Middle Eastern areas, breathing down on necks. Pray for wisdom. One false move and we'll fight in another WWIII.

FreeNLovIt   December 1st, 2008 11:58 am ET

To those who doubts the Clintons

They have never RUSHED to war. They have never LIED to rush to war. Internationally, they represent the GLORY of America. Stop freaking out about Hillary. She is a strong woman but she knows when she needs to pull back and support a GREATER cause – just look at the Nov election (fighting for Barack), just look at her standing by Bill (MOnica). She knows which battle to lose and to win.

Don   December 1st, 2008 11:57 am ET

For those concerned that Obama may not have been born in the US, it doesn't matter. His mother was an American citizen, making hom and American citizen no matter where her was born.

And by the way, John McCain was born in Panama.

Franky   December 1st, 2008 11:54 am ET

This won't be the first time Bill isn't with his wife...if you know what I mean, LOL!!!! Ohhh man, you knew I had to say it, I had to say it, LOL!!

Sandra   December 1st, 2008 11:54 am ET

Aren't these people rolling in dough??? Why does ANYONE have to help Hillary pay off her campaign debt. Can't she just write a check? I am so sick of these rich ppl expecting you and me to pay their bills.

Donna   December 1st, 2008 11:53 am ET

This is another outstanding decision Obama has made. Let's hope he continues to place the right people in the right places and get America back on track. Good job.

pam Eugene OR   December 1st, 2008 11:50 am ET

I voted for Obama. I registered voters for him. I gave the max in money in the primary and the general. I went door to door for him and I worked the phone banks for him.
I will not give one dime to help Clinton pay her debts. She was a "monster" and spent money she did not have to stay in the race long after the outcome was known. Sorry Barack, as much as I support you there will no money from me for Hillary.
I am sure Bill has enough shady deals to pay her debts.
Otherwise great team and I pray Bill Clinton continues to stay home!

Phil-Little Rock   December 1st, 2008 11:46 am ET

What, is he busy? Or is he banging Gina Gershon again?

I guess that would constitute being busy. Gettin' busy.

Vasha, FL   December 1st, 2008 11:44 am ET

Must Bill be present? This is Obama's era.

tess   December 1st, 2008 11:44 am ET

i can't wait until the clintons try to upstage obama and he is "forced" to let her go because she is not a team player and is trying to undercut him. when it is publicly obvious then he has once and for all gotten rid of those vile ,power-hungary fools. good riddenced and let's hope it happens sooner rather than later!!!!

Ia Guy   December 1st, 2008 11:39 am ET

Cheers to the Clintons!!! Welcome back!!!

BJ   December 1st, 2008 11:38 am ET

The big winner in all of this is the people of New York...they get to elect a REAL New Yorker to the Senate.

Brian   December 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

It would be nice if he would stay out of her life.

Maybe he he could be president of Somalia, yea that's it.

Jeff - Mt. Juliet   December 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

Hey Wild Bill,
you forgot Valerie-Plame-Gate, Halliburton-Gate, Patriot-Act-Gate, Karl-Rove-Gate, 4000-plus-Dead-Troops-for-nothing-Gate, Trillion-plus-dollar-deficit-Gate, Bin Laden-still-on-the-loose-Gate, Highest-unemployment-since-before-"Slick Willy"-Gate, etc, etc, etc...
The Legacy that "Slick Willy" left was a trillion-dollar SURPLUS – even while Ken Starr spent millions of the taxpayers money to discover evidence of an extra marital affair. Wheewww! I'm sure glad we know about THAT. The country could've went right down the tubes over that (because that's really anyone's business but his and his family's).

James From Chicago   December 1st, 2008 11:37 am ET

Do any of you idiots remember when Bill Clinton was President we were all sitting pretty. He was one of the best Presidents this country
has ever had. And Hillary has served the people of this country
for over 35 years.

Janey   December 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

Canadian –dream on, liberal–you must be one of the few idiot left-wingers that voted for the French Guy–don't hold your breath–just keep on spewing false information–Harper is the best thing to happen to Canada in years!

Brad Morse   December 1st, 2008 11:36 am ET

Was it not obvious to the american people, this appointment was about the 6.5 million dollars or else?

When they say it is not about the money...it is about the money!

Peggy   December 1st, 2008 11:34 am ET

caribbean admirer of

WELL SAID CARIBBEAN ADMIRE

BOTH JOHN AND ENEMY ARE NOTHING MORE THAN SLIME
THEY ARE NO BETTER THAN DOG POO
THEY ARE UNEDUCATED NUTS WHO DO NOT KNOW ANY BETTER

MY GUESS THEY ARE THE OLD TIMERS.
THEY SHOULD BE BURIED 100 FEET BENEATH THE SEA

Jaye   December 1st, 2008 11:34 am ET

Bill dosen't want to draw attention away from these proceedings – and he would if he were there.
This is Obama's moment, Obama's and his cabinet.
It's a great team (regardless of what the republicans say) so stand behind them.

jim   December 1st, 2008 11:32 am ET

CNN stop being paparazzi...

Erika, KS   December 1st, 2008 11:31 am ET

Oh Bill, I long for the days of old when you were at the helm. Economics were good, the stock market was sound. Hillary tried to help us with healthcare. Alas, the republicans continue to hate you. It's too bad. Maybe Hillary can bring back some of the good from the 1990's.

JuanM   December 1st, 2008 11:31 am ET

Bush, Clinton, Bush, Obama(Clinton heavy admin...yawn)

Pete   December 1st, 2008 11:31 am ET

And this is relevant because???

I won't be there either, in case anybody wants to know.

KJL   December 1st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Okay, okay. Have you folks with "birth certificate fixation" ever heard of Snopes? Go to their website and see what they have to say about Barack Obama and all the nonsense surrounding his place of birth and citizenship. You must think John McCain's campaign managers were such complete idiots that they didn't look for every possible crack in his armor.

Annie, Atlanta   December 1st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Our PE certainly is putting together some powerful and brilliant minds. Let's just hope to God they can get the job done. As far as Bill Clinton not being present, he should not be. It's not his show this time around.

To those posters who are still going on and on (and on) about Obama's birth certificate, how can a child born to a woman from Kansas not be an American citizen? Let's move forward together, shall we?

sglman4Obama   December 1st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Good stay home! You're a distraction we just dont need right now

Matthew   December 1st, 2008 11:22 am ET

This is good stuff! I love it when a Country can come together. Now that the government is all fixed and running like a well oiled machine, I'm just waiting in line now for my hand-out!

Scott Tucson   December 1st, 2008 11:21 am ET

Hmmm....what can Bill be up to? Hillary as Secretary of State is only forth in the line of sucession to become president.

canadian pov   December 1st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Janey,

Please learn your facts. Canada DID NOT just elect a Conservative government by a landslide in the last election. They got a mere 37% of the vote and formed a minority government. A minority government that is about to fall any day now because they completely messed up their first attempt to address the world wide economic problems. They proved themselves to be exactly like the neocons that just lost a landslide election because they are more concerned about political opportunism than they are about governing in a reasonable and responsible manner.

Terri Ann ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~   December 1st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Max– what is it with you nutcases who keep harping on the "birth certificate" non-issue????????
The State of Hawaii & the courts of Hawaii have said his Hawaiian birth certificate is genuine, legitimate, authentic– what more do you want?? Do you not think the State of Hawaii is part of the United States?

jeff in MA   December 1st, 2008 11:13 am ET

Hey enemyofmine, the civil war is over, the north won, get over it you bigot.

jeff in MA   December 1st, 2008 11:10 am ET

...and how is this newsworthy?

Max   December 1st, 2008 11:10 am ET

John is entirely right.

As much as Obama supporters like to call people "sore losers" or nutjobs of any wing for saying anything against their candidate, I think it's worth pondering exactly why Barack Obama has been unable to produce his birth certificate. If anyone can come up with a reasonable answer, I'd be fascinated.

Marie   December 1st, 2008 11:09 am ET

Samatha Power should not have a position in the State Department. She over reacted in the campaign when the only threat was the possibility that Hillary might win. She did not use good judgement and did not honor the the addage that 'politics stops at the water's edge'. Who knows what she might say if she is appointed to a position in State and when faced by a real threat. As Obama said "words matter".

Angie-OHIO   December 1st, 2008 11:09 am ET

John December 1st, 2008 10:04 am ET

you sound like a very bitter and very,very little person. President elect Obama was born in the USA. Now get over it.

cheryl   December 1st, 2008 11:08 am ET

Hey EnemyofMine.....why are you under a cover, reveal yourself. Its a shame that people have to hide behind such racist comments. That's okay, he may be the house negro.....but guess what....YOU will have to abide by his rules. Get over it....maybe it will take a housenegro to turn around the mess that the masta's have created in this country.

LyonsPhilly   December 1st, 2008 11:07 am ET

That's right. Bill mind your own store. This not about you.

Martin G   December 1st, 2008 11:07 am ET

Bill is happier than a peach!! or should I say impeached. He is now free to roam without that nag Hillary getting in the way. I'm sure he is smoking a big fat cigar as we speak. Good luck Barry keeping this broad in check. You will probably be very sorry you made Hillary your bit**.

DC Observer   December 1st, 2008 11:06 am ET

President Clinto could not make it as he is preparing for te Presidential run of Hillary in 2012.

The public appearances on the world stage of Bill, Hillary, and Barack should provide for some entertaining moments .....and Bill and Hillary already know most of the Obama administration becasue most of them worked for Bill

caribbean admirer of OBAMA   December 1st, 2008 11:04 am ET

Hey John and "enemy":
If you both don't have anything to do, why not try to know who were your ancestors.
Can you proof that you are real Americans, or are you also coming from a Polish, German or Irish root?
I hope that the upcoming eight years will bring some upgrading to your racist mind.

MD for Obama   December 1st, 2008 11:03 am ET

TO JOHN:

There is no news because there is nothing to prove!

Aaron from Ohio   December 1st, 2008 11:01 am ET

I'm very encouraged and hopeful now that Hillary will be Secretary of State. Bill was right not to attend the announcement. This is Hillary's day. Bill will be around to give her advice if she asks for it. Eight years ago we had the respect and support of our allies. Our economy had tripled under Bill Clinton. We were at peace. Bill had an affair with Monica and got impeached for it. He didn't have secret prisons. He didn't have warrantless wiretaps. He didn't condone torture. The republicans got their shorts in a knot and went after him during both terms of his presidency of their "moral" outrage. They're out now and it's time to start repairing the damage. The house has been cleaned and it's time now to put it back in order.

David   December 1st, 2008 11:00 am ET

Bill knows it's Hillary time and giving her the limelight for her accomplishments whereas she deserves it.

Of course, pertaining to Samatha Powers she doesn't deserve a position at all for what she said during the primaries calling Hillary Clinton a monster. As a Hillary supporter, Samantha Power should just go back to college and teach and she doesn't deserve a position at the State Department.

prophet   December 1st, 2008 11:00 am ET

Beware the Razorbacks

Mickie   December 1st, 2008 10:59 am ET

I think it should be up to Hillary whether Powers stays or not. If they can't work together, then it should be Hillary's perogative to ask her to resign. I was not a supporter of Hillary during the campaign, but I would not want to be forced to work with someone if we could not work well together. The job of Sec. of State is just too difficult. If Pres. Elect Obama could always find another position for Powers should he feel she is worthy.

Sweetie   December 1st, 2008 10:58 am ET

It would seem that if you are Liberal enough you can be thrown under a bus and then pulled back out and called "OK"!

I think Samatha Power is the "MONSTER!"

I'm pleased about Hillary's appointment .....

she is the only person in the Obama administration who knows the score!

GO "NEW" Clinton Administration!

WildBill5600   December 1st, 2008 10:58 am ET

FOR ALL U BUSH/GOP HATERS: First, nothing says "Change" like all the Clinton retreads on That One's team. i wait with baited breath for the senate confirmation of the "Monster". We will get to re visit all the gates; whitewatergate, MonikaGate, VinceFosterGate, Chinese fundraiserCrookGate, TravelGate......the list is long. Let's not forget the 200,000 "donors" on Sklick Willy's list.

For all you Obama lovers, you got us four more years of the Clinton's.

....BTW, what legacy did Slick Willy leave? other than a stain on ablue dress and the oval office......Values anyone?

Barbara in NC   December 1st, 2008 10:58 am ET

I'm very proud of our President-Elect.

Some of you rabble-rousers need to stop stirring the stink and start doing something positive for this country. It's people like you all that make me ashamed for you.

Love it or Leave it.

KJL   December 1st, 2008 10:57 am ET

This nonsense about Obama being "disqualified" is wearing a little thin. I guess those of us who are really interested in what others have to say, as well as making our own comments, need to learn to ignore the fools amongst us and look for different opinions that are actually rational.

Is Bill staying away to keep out of the spotlight while Hillary shines?

Janey   December 1st, 2008 10:57 am ET

Yeh, Canada–there is a great deal of respect for a person who calls another person a "monster" and gets away with it. If Obama lets that woman anywhere on his team, he has no "respect" from me. I never understand you Canadians–you just voted in a conservative Govt on Oct 10 by a landslide because you were sick of the way the liberals were ruining the country–yet you come on here and support far-left Obama–Go figure.

Laverne   December 1st, 2008 10:56 am ET

It is extremely sad and unfortunate that people right here in America can be so mean spirited towards your own leaders with all the terrorist acts of hatred and violence going on in the world. Do you really think that Obama would even have been in the running for POTUS if he wasn't thoroughly vetted and it was confirmed he was a natural born citizen of the US. Where do you people come from? Obama will be our next POTUS and will need the support of the US. We are living in perilous times. You may have not voted for him nor support his views, but he deserves the same chance as your current lame duck president who has helped destroy our country. God Bless you President Elect Obama, there is a righteous wind at your back!

Laura, Boston   December 1st, 2008 10:56 am ET

@John:

True a crazy lawsuit was filed and for your information it had appeared on the cable news stations. It is not just Obama that they want a ruling on but McCain as well.

Don't you think that all the candidates had to present proper documentation at the time they decided to run?

I think you are making a mountain out of a molehill. Obama is the President-elect and will become the 44th President of the US on January 20, 2009. Deal with it!

Clarence (Florida)   December 1st, 2008 10:56 am ET

John – I pray for the day when people like you who use lies to attack our President stop. You can disagree with his platform, but your attacks are stupid. feel sorry for you. You all lost the race get over it!! Obama is our President. Obama will prove to the thinking world that the best man won. To those who think like John – you are no longer the majority and hopefully you will all just grow up or be quiet.

Mike   December 1st, 2008 10:55 am ET

Obama supporters voted for change and that's exactly what they got. They voted for Obama and he has changed into Clinton.

Next time, they won't be so easily fooled.

Valerie   December 1st, 2008 10:55 am ET

Hillary will make a great Secretary of State. Even though I was a Obama supporter, I know he made an excellent choice.

Gretchen, SD   December 1st, 2008 10:55 am ET

I'm dissappointed that Susan Rice has Michelleitis. NEVER wear prints for an important press announcement or historical moment.

larrywi   December 1st, 2008 10:53 am ET

Talk about a fricking train wreck!! What's up next for this nut??

Laura, Boston   December 1st, 2008 10:52 am ET

@John

Helen, NC   December 1st, 2008 10:52 am ET

Good.

Noah   December 1st, 2008 10:51 am ET

Is anyone surprised by this announcement? My guess is that he will be back home in New York throwing himself a bachelor party and inviting only those of the female persuasion to entertain him while Hillary is away.

wonkguy, Bethesda MD   December 1st, 2008 10:50 am ET

Whoever came up with the title for this little ditty should be summarily terminated. Note to CNN, the absence of Bill Clinton at this event is not news! Get over your fetish-like salivation for a Clinton controversy, it really is quite annoying.

Denise Groves   December 1st, 2008 10:50 am ET

He must have found him anotherr Monica! LOL. JuanM, who do you think ran the military when Clinton was in office? Get over it!

Who knew?   December 1st, 2008 10:49 am ET

Obama acting conservatively?
It's a Christmas miracle!

:-)

Clarence (Florida)   December 1st, 2008 10:49 am ET

Leave Bill alone!!!!! If he shows up you all would say he is upstaging Hillary and if he does not you all will make a big story out of it.

Looking for Truth   December 1st, 2008 10:49 am ET

The ignorance shown by no right wing nutcases actually shows him to be a real nut job. Make Obama show his birth certificate and prove it to be real. Then find out if he renounced his citizenship when he became a citizen of Indo.

Remi N.   December 1st, 2008 10:48 am ET

It's really funny that, those conservatives who call themselves christians, preach more hate, racism than people they point fingers at... They are just the same as the radical islamists.
Seriously , what part of the Bible do you guys read? GOD IS LOVE NOT HATE!!!!!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   December 1st, 2008 10:48 am ET

Senator Hillary Clinton is a highly professional woman in her own rights and will not focus on petty differences, she's got a job to do and she will do it well. The campaign is over and it's not time to sit around a table and gossip about petty differences. There's a lesson to be learned in this whole matter that may help others secure their jobs.

Concern citizen!!   December 1st, 2008 10:46 am ET

Why should he CNN?

kim   December 1st, 2008 10:46 am ET

I don't understand why people think that having some of the same people means that Obama really isn't changing anything. People and what policies they try to enhance, are two different things. If he put all new people in, you guys would complain about that too. We get to, as Americans, have our own opinions, but why are people so unwilling to give it a chance before any of them even take office. What ever happened to faith.

Peggy   December 1st, 2008 10:45 am ET

EnemyofMine

YOU ARE AN UNEDUCATED LIME.

YOU ARE NO BETTER THAN THE DOG POO
WHEN YOU DIE, I HOPE THEY BURY YOU 100 FEET UNDER THE EARTH

YOU NO GOOD SLIME

Lauren the Designer   December 1st, 2008 10:45 am ET

Seriously if you guys don't like anything about this administration, why don't you stop your whining and move somewhere else? We are very tired of listening to all the noise you make.

(Although I can doubt that would really help...I'm sure the naysayers on here are probably just really unhappy individuals in general.)

Lynn   December 1st, 2008 10:44 am ET

I read through these comments and just shake my head at some of the stupidity. Obama hasn't even been sworn in yet and you already have him written off as a failure who lied to us all. I was taught as a value to give people a fair chance before judging them so decisively. Unfortunately, it looks like some of you don't feel it's important to be fair and I find it sad. I almost feel sorry for you.

So far, I am impressed with the people he has surrounded himself with based on their competence and intellegence. But I'm not really partisan, refuse to hate for no reason, and refuse to rush to judgment, so I guess I don't belong on these blogs.

honeychild   December 1st, 2008 10:43 am ET

JOHN, PLEASE GET LOST!!!

Oona   December 1st, 2008 10:43 am ET

Hey John, ...let's see, Mr. Obama has spent the last 2 years running for president...I think he's had to prove he was US born already. Here's some advice: Heal your wounds or move out of the country for at least 4 years.

Pennsylvania   December 1st, 2008 10:42 am ET

I believe President Elect Obama make a very wise choice in choosing Hillary.

She will do a superior job in her position of Secretary of State.

I will always back Hillary.

More Bitterness....   December 1st, 2008 10:42 am ET

@Joanne,
Obviously you care. That is why you spent the time to not only read the article but to also make a comment. You are obviously in denial.

@Haywood
It you cannot see the difference in the way he chose his cabinet and how he has handled himself as the President-Elect, then there is no use in answering your question because you do not understand what change is. The change is in leadership......

@John
Have you ever thought about the fact that the networks aren't covering that "Major" story that you are talking about because it is INVALID. Time to get over it and move on to something else. (or you can just accept the fact that President-Elect Obama will soon become President Obama)

Jeff   December 1st, 2008 10:42 am ET

First of all – John, do you HONESTLY think that the entire democratic party would nominate a man (a very virtuous one, mind you) that wasn't born in the USA? REALLY?! And let's talk about a "presidential" figure who's a real fraud and a liar... why did gas prices go all the way up to $5 a gallon during "dubya's" term? Why did they plummet to $1.50 a gallon after the election? And why did the networks just suddenly stop covering the Valerie Plame matter? Why were there "no contest" contracts between the defense dept. and your boy Dick Cheney's company Halliburton?
Second of all – Jozee, Bill Clinton was the best thing that EVER happened to this country. EVEN with the several million dollar taxpayer funded investigation that uncovered nothing but an extramarital affair (which was no one's business but his) he still left office with the highest approval rating EVER!
Third – CNN! Why would you write a headline like that? Maybe his presence is needed elsewhere more than it's needed at this announcement. I'm sure that's exactly the reason he won't be there. You people can't stand for a good person to keep their good name.

RB   December 1st, 2008 10:41 am ET

John: I think you must be a sore losing Republican its folks loke you that make this great Country think negative.Sad

I can be a right wing-nut too....   December 1st, 2008 10:41 am ET

Blah blah blah birth certificate blah blah blah socialist whine whine whine Marxism blah blah blah no change whine whine whine Palin is awesome blah blah....

Jesse - San Antonio, Texas   December 1st, 2008 10:37 am ET

I don't Samantha Power should have a job under Hillary Clinton. She shows contempt towards her. Why would any one want to have someone like that under you?

For whatever you may think of Hillary Clinton, she was not Monster enough to publicly go and mount personal attacks like this woman did.

Who is more of the monster?

David, Silver Spring, MD   December 1st, 2008 10:37 am ET

How could Hillary Clinton hold a grudge against Samantha Power if Obama holds no grudge against Clinton?

Clinton refusing to put Samantha Power in a very high position says simply that Obama was misguided to put Clinton in a very high position.

Surely Power is allowed at least as much forgiveness from Clinton as Clinton and Joe Lieberman got from Obama.

carment   December 1st, 2008 10:36 am ET

John, you need to stop being abusive to expired equines :P

Spencer/NY to VA   December 1st, 2008 10:36 am ET

He doesn't need to be there. He's not getting the position, his wife is. Please don't get the republicans panties in a bunch. The notion of getting 2 for the price of 1 is beyond imaginable to those nation destroyers.

Dan   December 1st, 2008 10:35 am ET

Bill Clinton is a smart man–good move not to show up today. It's about Obama's team. And I think HRC will take the high road on Power and keep her in DoS if she wants to stay. And those of you worried about HRC being too hawkish scare me. I'm glad you're not in charge.

BigDenver   December 1st, 2008 10:35 am ET

The only "real change' is Obama's Mind....note there will be no tax increase on those making more than $250,000.....only "change" so far is the threat of more give aways......oh excuse me "entitlements"....how about a tax holiday to get the econmy moving so people that can work have to work....looks like a lot of DS insiders on HIS team!

Remi N.   December 1st, 2008 10:35 am ET

EnemyofMine , you are just another pig baster republican. A sore looser who will cry for the next 4 , I mean the next 8years....
Well America is changing, but pigs will stay pigs as you know, and see yourself.!!!!

LIP   December 1st, 2008 10:34 am ET

No Bill...what will we ever do without Bill? It remains to be seen if there will be no Samantha...she will probably quietly disappear once Hillary takes charge. Yes there will be change people., but that also remains to be seen, since nothing different has happened so far.

Deb n Texas   December 1st, 2008 10:34 am ET

I think Samatha Power should have a position at the State Department because she is a very brilliant woman. She was right when she called Hillary Clinton a "monster," because that is exactly how Hillary was acting at the time.

Nikole   December 1st, 2008 10:33 am ET

@ Hayward-How about you actually let the man govern before you deem his platform a failure. Barack Obama is an extremely intelligent man, that is making intelligent decisions. That right there is quite enough change after the last 8 years of incompetence.

Dave   December 1st, 2008 10:32 am ET

Way to go John. I agree with you!!!!!

carol   December 1st, 2008 10:31 am ET

I don't think Bill Clinton should be at the announcement, it's nothing to do with him....this is Hillary's day and he needs to keep a low profile.

Virginia   December 1st, 2008 10:31 am ET

What? Does he have a date???? And does he have his cigars.....I wish neither of them showed up-this is a BIG mistake! As I said the morning after the election, God help us all....

clifford   December 1st, 2008 10:30 am ET

I know it hurt's and it's hard to admit and you'll make endless excuses for him but I think you Obama supporters have been "BAMBOOZLED". OUCH!!!

Barry Soetoro   December 1st, 2008 10:30 am ET

John is right.

Joan   December 1st, 2008 10:30 am ET

Another Clinton White House-oh, goody!

Christina   December 1st, 2008 10:29 am ET

Since Obama's mother was a US citizen, by law he counts as natural-born citizen regardless of his birthplace (which was Hawaii in any case). The law suit is a lame effort to discredit him. Where was Sen. McCain born? Panama.

KAT   December 1st, 2008 10:29 am ET

john and "enemy"
You have got to be kidding me!!!!
John-get over it. He won, he's legal, he's your president!

enemy–you are indeed the enemy. It's your country, love it or leave it–I(I'm so excited to be able to throw that back at the conservatives now!) Personally, I hope you leave it–we don't need racists and bigots if we are to move forward and become once again the greatest country on earth.

for obama nj-dp   December 1st, 2008 10:28 am ET

it is a shame with all the hate that is global with the terroist and everything, we have so much hatred in our own country, it will only take God to change the hearts of some of the people of this world, but what amazes me, the same people that same they love america, hate their black fellow president elect, i don't get it.....

katiec   December 1st, 2008 10:28 am ET

Oh my, CNN. Must be a slow news day to make something like
this a headline.

Hayward   December 1st, 2008 10:28 am ET

Enemy of mine... I feel ya... trust me I feel ya. And all the nay sayers will say this and call you that but when it comes down to it they know you're right. I thought Washington was going to get turned upside down with new ideas, new people and new energy but no what we get is the same ole people with a promise of new ideas. Tell me honestly how is that possible?????????????????????

BS not Maverick   December 1st, 2008 10:27 am ET

Enemy of mine, Nergo or not he is your President for the next 4 to 8 years. HA, and his middle name is Huesein too, so if you don't like it move to another country, Ha!

rich   December 1st, 2008 10:26 am ET

For all the naysayers who have issues with Hillary's appointment to SOS, I say Hillary will do what's right for America first and not let her personal ambitions get in the way. I am confident of that. I also believe that Bill will be a good supporting spouse and not get in the way of Hillary's job because he loves her and wants her to succeed. Most importanlty, I believe Hillary will make an excellent SOS, and will do America good in these trying times. I also beleive that she and Obama will work well together. She will give him her advise as she she's it, and it's up to him to take it or leave it as the buck stops with him. I think Hillary is going to prove many of you wrong, and at the end of the day we will be able to look back at her tenure as SOS and say that she did a hell of a job. Welcome aboard Madam Secretary!

Bjoerlingfan   December 1st, 2008 10:26 am ET

John –

No one is covering it because no network with any integrity would cover such a ridiculous story. Independent analysts have gone to Hawaii and seen his actual birth certificate and confirmed its authenticity. The onlt people beating this dead horse are sore losers in the GOP.

Go ahead. Keep digging. You wont find anything. All it will prove is how desperate and petty you people really are.

and   December 1st, 2008 10:26 am ET

Clinton – the best, Obama – the worst!

Sylvia   December 1st, 2008 10:26 am ET

EnemyofMine, you are really a very unhappy person aren't you?

Unshrub   December 1st, 2008 10:26 am ET

John:

"Obama must supply evidence that he was born in America to Justice Souter"

---–

What does this have to do with the article? Besides, every President must prove he is qualified to be President. That is why it isn't news.
Grow up and get over it. He won and he is going to be President.

Yvonne   December 1st, 2008 10:26 am ET

Why should Bill appear? No other spouse has appeared at these announcements. This is a ridiculous story.

james   December 1st, 2008 10:25 am ET

As some long past Democratic Presidents were true liberals, the past Bush administration ( neo-cons) were ultra right wingers. Therefore, Obama`s "bunch" just seems to be more liberal than they really are.

BS not Maverick   December 1st, 2008 10:25 am ET

Protocol!

Elizabeth Jones   December 1st, 2008 10:25 am ET

Obama is an American citizen born in the united states you retard. And if you don't like our new president elect I will urge you to pack up and move to canada for the next 4 years. This is real. just like Mccain said the out come of this election was difficult from the start. There was no way a republican would have won this election with sarah palin on the ticket or not.

Brig   December 1st, 2008 10:23 am ET

Suzanne,
For a reporter, you’re really clueless or is it another symptom of the Clinton Derangement Syndrome (CDS)? You don’t need an unnamed source to find that the former president is busy with the CGI Asia that starts tomorrow in Hong Kong. Out of curiosity, when president-elect Obama named the other members of his cabinet, were their spouses present? I did not think so.
As for all the Clinton haters out there, it’s going to be a long four years for you all and I am going to enjoy watching you explode all over again. I for one enjoyed the peace and prosperity of the 90’s.

Andrea/ CA   December 1st, 2008 10:23 am ET

John, I wish you would inform youself first, before making a fool of yourself. The Birth certificate was/ is posted on line and the issue is long closed. Therefore NO longer any news to report. Crawl out of you uninformed ignorate hole and give the man a chance.

Jeffrey Stuart   December 1st, 2008 10:21 am ET

Why can't we seem to say goodbye to the Clintons? We're finally saying goodbye to the Bushes, yet the Clintons keep lingering. I have grave concerns about the selection of Senator Clinton for Secretary of State, and for the first time I am questioning Obama's judgement. I can only hope that she won't be confirmed.

John–Please join the rest of us–OK, those of us–who live in the real world. I have no doubt that if Obama has, indeed, defrauded the US public and was not born in America, it will be all over the media. In fact, it would have come up LONG before now. Even the most secretive operations have leaks, and such a purported conspiracy to cover up Obama's origins would be no exception.

Patriot Gal   December 1st, 2008 10:21 am ET

John, what you are bringing up here is a NON -ISSUE.
You can believe what you wanna believe until the end of days. fine with the rest of us.

Obama is our President elect. whether you like it or not

You dont have to support him but you will have to deal with him

Good day

EnemyofMine   December 1st, 2008 10:19 am ET

New team or same old team with a house negro..

Nick   December 1st, 2008 10:18 am ET

Juan, he's picking people qualified for the job, regardless of political affiliation. We could get Jones and Gates, or we can get some unqualified Dem just because Obama is a Democrat.

Do I agree with all his picks? No, but not everybody will. But with him picking Republicans and former political rivals, it tells me this guy doesn't care about the behind-the-scenes politics, only to have the best person in those positions.

Linda from Prescott AZ   December 1st, 2008 10:18 am ET

It appears there are still some pretty nasty people out there from a few of these posts. To bad you can't move on.

lizzylu   December 1st, 2008 10:18 am ET

to John:
um, yeah, i think no one cares b/c ppl already know the truth-Pres. elect Obama IS A UNITED STATES CITIZEN. sad that ppl continue to ? this, despite the preponderence of evidence. i wonder-if he were totally white/white looking & had a generic name, would anyone even think 2x about it ?!

Chris   December 1st, 2008 10:18 am ET

It's a good idea and a sign of respect that Bill should not be there this time. She's her own woman, and an excellent politician who will make a great SOS. Besides, I'm sure the other spouses will not be present at this particular announcement.

Lauren   December 1st, 2008 10:17 am ET

Here is what I find funny about the Samantha Powers issue. The Dems are ready, willing and able to accept her apology. Let by gone be by gones.
But they continue to bash Sarah Palin at every chance they get. And Bush also. You always see post on here about how bad Bush is, how they can not wait until he is gone and the Messiah is in power.
But yet when one of thier own asks to be forgiven,,, all is well.

Myrna Ulrich   December 1st, 2008 10:17 am ET

I agree with Juan M ! Let the Demonstrations Begin !!!!!!!! Time for another Party in This Country WHICH IS BADLY NEEDED... ALSO I AM GLAD THAT THERE IS NO MAJOR TV COVERAGE OF THIS EVENT, I REALLY DO NOT WANT TO SEE HILLARY OR THE OTHER WARMONGERS... GRANFORCHANGE IN WISCONSIN

Lake side   December 1st, 2008 10:17 am ET

So calling Hillary a monster may keep Samantha from getting a job, but her husband got to keep his job after cheating on and humiliating Hillary for years?

Lisa   December 1st, 2008 10:17 am ET

Congratulations Hillary Clinton!!!

Hayward   December 1st, 2008 10:16 am ET

Okay now that we have all that out of the way, will everyone please confess that Obama's message of change was a bunch of hogwash. I mean it's okay, really, don't be hesitant. It's okay. When will we ever learn??? The message of change is a powerful thing when a country and a people are in the midst of economic and political chaos. It paralyzes us all and hypnotizes us all but when the smoke clears you discover that's all it was, smoke........

CAL   December 1st, 2008 10:15 am ET

I'm a little uneasy about Hillary also, I don't really trust her but I will see what happens and I hope she does a great job. Hillary is a very smart and strong woman, I think she will keep Bill in place.

In response to John's comment
You are a complete idiot. This was verified a long time ago and besides do you think he would have been elected if he wasn't? Stop hating, Obama is an american and he is the Pres elect.

Sue   December 1st, 2008 10:15 am ET

I sure wouldn't hire someone who called me a monster...bye bye Samantha!

Daniel   December 1st, 2008 10:14 am ET

Why would Hillary want to be part of this Micky Mouse White House?

President Oprah, sorry Obama, is still doing a great job of speaking out of both sides of his mouth.

Jeff from Atlanta   December 1st, 2008 10:13 am ET

Smart, eliminate all competition

60 year old white female and proud supporter of PE Obama   December 1st, 2008 10:13 am ET

So What?? How many spouses of the economic team showed up. Most of this Clinton "stuff" is media hype to fill in air space. No one except the officials being announced know what kind of relationships they have developed with PE Obama except them.

The Clintons may have realized as many American voters did that it is Obama with his intelligence, generational change and twentieth century vision is what America and the world needs. Obama is the idea man, the visionary and the leader while Clinton is the fact, dor t the "i"s person just as was exposed in the primary debates. Neither would have agreed to the position if they didn't know they could work together.

Joe Biden will also help to be the glue to consolidate this well balanced team that will usher in a bipartisan team.

dave   December 1st, 2008 10:13 am ET

"Et tu, Hillary?"

Dee   December 1st, 2008 10:13 am ET

John,

can you just go away. Your ignorance is really unbecoming

No Right Wing Nutcases   December 1st, 2008 10:12 am ET

John, forget about this canard. Obama was born in Hawaii. You people are a sick joke.

puffafish   December 1st, 2008 10:12 am ET

what great posts I find myself coming to your blog more and more often to the
point where my visits are almost daily now
always informative

Get Targeted Traffic To Your Blog</a
Great Paul :)

Scott   December 1st, 2008 10:10 am ET

Juan's comments are silly. Obama is bringing change by bringing on these Republicans because they are from the rational wing of the Republican Party, not the insane group that ran the country most of Bush's term. Gates reigned in Iraq policy and Jones is a voice of moderation and reason. Obama wants divergent minds on his team, and now he will insure that. Good choices.

Gretchen   December 1st, 2008 10:10 am ET

Here we go with the drama. It's the Bill and Hilliary show all over again. Appearing or not appearing she will always be in his shadow.

Gylon Barrow   December 1st, 2008 10:08 am ET

There is no reason why Bill Clinton shouldn't be there. OBAMA will be president for many a year and still not be qualified to shine Bill's shoes.

Michael watching from Canada   December 1st, 2008 10:07 am ET

Its a sign of respect that Bill Clinton is not appearing with Hillary at the Obama announcement. He does want to create any distraction for Hillary becoming SoS. The fact that Samantha Power has been allowed to participate on the transition team shows maturity for Obama and Clinton to let go of the past and call on those most qualified to help Obama during his transition. Besides, Power's role is only for the transition.

John   December 1st, 2008 10:04 am ET

The biggest surprise is that no major news network is covering the fact that today Obama must supply evidence that he was born in America to Justice Souter. This could be the day that we find out that our president-elect is a fraud and a liar, yet there is nothing on the news networks about it.

Jozee   December 1st, 2008 10:02 am ET

Bill Clinton needs to stop reminding us that he is Hillary's husband and allow her to stand on her own credentials. It is a very good thing that he won't appear at the announcement.

In my opinion, choosing Hillary as SoS is not a good one, however, only time will tell whether PE Obama has made a prudent choice or not. He's been batting a thousand so far.

Joanne   December 1st, 2008 10:01 am ET

WHO ACTUALLY CARES!!!!

Susan   December 1st, 2008 10:01 am ET

Obama is picking an excellent cabinet. We're sure Former Presient Clinton has other business to attend to today. It's hard when so much is going on in the same day.

JuanM   December 1st, 2008 9:59 am ET

More "HOPE" and "CHANGE" we can believe in. My favorite is Obama's pick of former Marine Commandant General Jones. He was also a McCain supporter, not to mention Gates. I guess even Democrats agree that Democrats can't run the military. Once again, this is proof that there really is no difference between Repubs and Dems.

Jennifer   December 1st, 2008 9:59 am ET

Go HILLARY!!!!!

Chris   December 1st, 2008 9:58 am ET

Bring Samantha back!!!

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
@edhenrycnn: @emmymason we r 13 hrs ahead in Shanghai and we r safe just creepy to have security outside your door. reminds me of Russia
Updated: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:19:45 -0800
@edhenrycnn: now tell me why hotel "security" has two nice gentlemen waiting at elevator with earpieces when i arrive at my hotel floor?
Updated: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:27:35 -0800
@edhenrycnn: friends thought Twitter would be blocked in China but it seems working. however ...
Updated: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:26:27 -0800
@edhenrycnn: http://twitpic.com/pnmbs - A rainy Shanghai seen from 65th floor of our hotel
Updated: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:58:10 -0800
@cnnsotu: Right now on SOTU: Senior W.H. Adviser David Axelrod, followed by fmr. N.Y. Mayor Rudy Giuliani
Updated: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:03:37 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP