September 24, 2009
Posted: September 24th, 2009 10:39 PM ET

From
Carly Fiorina's Web site went live on Monday.
Carly Fiorina's Web site went live on Monday.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – As former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina prepares to enter the 2010 California Senate race on the GOP side, her quirky new Web site is being ridiculed by the online community - and not just by those on the political left.

Republicans are also snickering about her bare-bones site, CarlyforCalifornia.com, which launched Monday and welcomes visitors with an animation describing a potential showdown between Fiorina and Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer in curious terms.

"It's Day and Night," the bright red Web site reads. "It's Dogs and Cats. It's Good and Bad. It's Carly vs. Boxer."

After hinting that the Republican's official entry into the race is "coming soon," the animation concludes with a pun: "Carlyfornia dreamin!!!"

The left leaning Huffington Post called the site "really the most insufferable thing she's ever done in her life." Democrats on Twitter bashed the as site "embarrassingly awful" and told Fiorina to scale back her use of exclamation points. And a YouTube video mocking the site has so far eclipsed 15,000 views.

But several Web-savvy Republicans are also taking aim.

"It's the most singularly awful political website I have ever seen, and I am including all the old, basic HTML websites that were the rage 10 years ago," conservative blogger John Hawkins of the site RightWingNews.com said in an e-mail to CNN. "Why not toss in G.I. Joe vs. Cobra, Ninjas vs. Pirates, and Kennedy versus Kruschev if it's going to be a goofy joke? There's very little information on it to appeal to voters."

Blogger Dan Riehl joked about the site's color: "It made me think I had been re-directed to Macy's."

"Wheres the beef?," Riehl asked. "It's not on that Web site ... If I were a high school senior and I designed that Web site, I would be extremely proud."

Several of Fiorina's GOP critics are conservative activists who support her primary opponent, California Assemblyman Chuck DeVore, who has carved out a position on the party's right.

Erick Erickson of the influential conservative blog RedState, for instance, is encouraging his readers to donate to DeVore and three other conservative GOP candidates in 2010 Senate primaries around the country. He also criticized Fiorina's site, writing that DeVore has been active on Twitter and Facebook, while Fiorina's site had "non-functional links to both services" when it launched.

But Scott Graves, an Orange County-based conservative blogger and new media consultant, claimed the site's problems are basic. He said it lacks crucial tools that helped the Obama campaign "set a higher standard for features, functionality, design, and the role of community in online initiatives."

Graves called the site "amateur" and said it fails to provide the kind of basic information about the candidate and issues that might make a reader want to get involved with the campaign.

"The fact that this was approved by the communications team, and perhaps the candidate herself, indicates a severe misunderstanding about the direction and role of online political communication," Graves said in an e-mail.

Beth Miller, a spokeswoman for Fiorina, said the new site is "a splash page only and is part of her exploratory effort." Miller did not directly address critics on the right side of the political spectrum.

"We were amused at the frenzy a splash page for an unannounced candidate generated and are appreciative of The Huffington Post and other left wing blogs for driving traffic to the page," she said in an e-mail. "Clearly, Barbara Boxer is vulnerable and the Democrats know it and are worried."

Filed under: California • Carly Fiorina • Chuck DeVore • Extra • Popular Posts


Jean   September 25th, 2009 1:34 am ET

I'm a woman and a Republican. Neither one makes Carly Fiorina look competent. It would take strong drink to do that.

Drazen   September 25th, 2009 1:30 am ET

Facts are that Carly and Sarah are proven failures and quitters, who share a common uncanny attribute of pulling the sexism card to deflect from their gross incompetence. But they know how to dress and self promote. You betcha ;-)

Having worked at HP BC (Before Carly) and as a consultant DC (During Carly) I can personally attest to the severe drop in morale during her regime. Google it up and you will find stories of employees (both Republican and Democrats, I'm sure) dancing on their desks when she was fired.

As a partially objective Canadian who tends to vote Conservative, I have to shake my head at the knee jerk defence of Carly by Republicans, without regard to actual facts and reality.

Republicans need to literally smarten up and find intelligent people to lead, instead of defending and propping up obvious morons (Bush, Palin, Fiorina).

Good luck, you'll need it.

gg17   September 25th, 2009 1:12 am ET

What a loser. We Californians will never elect this lady to anything, Sen. Boxer will be re-elected by an overwhelming margin.

fletc3her   September 25th, 2009 1:03 am ET

Oh come on, compared to how she ran HP the site is hardly worth commenting on. If she is elected she will negotiate a merger of California with Nevada and the synergies created will drive an economic boom not seen since the gold rush, or both states will go bankrupt.

cl   September 25th, 2009 1:01 am ET

As a former HP employee, I witnessed Carly screw up a great company. It's gonna be fun to watch her self destruct with her cutesy ideas. I would rather have Arnold another four years than see Carly in office.

General_Mortars   September 25th, 2009 12:59 am ET

This woman ran Hewlett Packard into the ground as CEO. It took her getting fired and new management to get it back to profitability and new vision.

She also ran John McCain's presidential campaign into the toilet.

Who REALLY thinks this WOMAN can run her own CAMPAIGN.

She's as SLIMY as Kathleen Sebilius and twice as cunning!

Snakes both of them, -really.

Tony   September 25th, 2009 12:57 am ET

She ran HP into the ground .. Dig deeper Carly. Good luck California!!

MCD, SF, CA   September 25th, 2009 12:51 am ET

This is silly... she failed in the corporate world... and has now decided to try her hand at politics... something she couldn't be bothered with before.... the women voted something like twice in the last 18 years.

More like Carley come lately.

David S. Robins   September 25th, 2009 12:47 am ET

This is wonderful. This proves that Senator Boxer can relax and be assured of reelection despite all the despicable California Republicans do. Carly Fiorina is a lightweight. That's why she got fired. Don't feel bad for her though, she can always go clean houses after she loses her large fortune on this campaign.

Shelly   September 25th, 2009 12:40 am ET

I thought her running for governor was actually a joke. You mean she's serious?

Tony   September 25th, 2009 12:36 am ET

You want a talking point? Carly Fiorino sent thousands of US Tech Sector job to India when she ran Hewlitt-Packard. In response to her sending the jobs off-shore Ms. Fiorino said, "There is no job that is America's God-given right anymore."

That's Republican care of the middle-class for you.

NateW   September 25th, 2009 12:31 am ET

Carly Fiorina is the sort of entitled narcissistic corporate CEO douche bag who have given American capitalism a bad name.

Brandon   September 25th, 2009 12:28 am ET

This isn't an issue of politics. This is a matter of professionalism. And I do not think Carly accomplished good exposure because:

1. The web site does not have her full name on the web site. Carly – OK, Carly who? Is that her first name or last name?

2. The web site only shows her picture for 1 second in a 32×32 thumbnail as part of a montage. So she does not accomplish any face recognition... even from her own web site.

3. I've seen web sites setup for completely fictional candidates be more convincing that they are not only real, but the best person for the job!

Republicans are right to distance themselves from someone who is clearly unqualified.

Carl from MI   September 25th, 2009 12:17 am ET

You mean Flip-flop like McCain!! McCain sure did a whopper of a flip-flop on the economy now, didn't he? Remember... "The economy is strong?" He said that right before, during and after the economy's meltdown?

Funny how you Republicans have such massive short-term memory loss... I guess that's what makes you and Carlyfornia Dreamin' the kings and queens of STOOPID!

Ken   September 25th, 2009 12:10 am ET

Fiorina did just as good a job building this site as she did at running HP (into the ground).

Next candidate, please!

Ryan   September 25th, 2009 12:07 am ET

So... is the California Dreaming a Mackenzie Phillips reference? Does carly keep strange company in the sack too?

JaneB3   September 24th, 2009 11:58 pm ET

Carly Fiorina did a horrible job running HP, and an even worse job helping Johm McCain.

Carlyfornia dreamin' is Carly Fiorina hallucinatin' big time!

kristi matthews   September 24th, 2009 11:55 pm ET

Thats a shame that the ones she thought was for her is making it a joke.If someone is acting like that then they really don't have any sense at all. Why worry about somebody else like that. As long as she knows what she's don't all i have to tell her is tell them haters get real and get a life. She's trying to make something of herself and i hope she wins.....

Michael   September 24th, 2009 11:49 pm ET

It's Tom vs Jerry! It's Wile E. Coyote vs Road Runner! It's Elmer Fudd vs Bugs Bunny!

I' d send Carly a $50.00 campaign donation, but I spent the $50.00 on 15 milliliters of ink for my printer.

Carly has a degree in medieval history; the sophistication of her website captures that period well. It's an embarrassment for California, and an insult to Californians.

A Democrat of 51 years who has finally got smart to their follishness.   September 24th, 2009 11:49 pm ET

You go Carly. The old Republicans need some life put back into them. I'm a Texan but I'd vote for you. NO MORE OBAMA TYPES.

wbn   September 24th, 2009 11:47 pm ET

This lady is very smart, personable, and tough. She won't cry over the classless comments of goofballs. Hope she wins!

John   September 24th, 2009 11:43 pm ET

Carly Fiorina sounds as clueless as Sarah Palin.

Angie   September 24th, 2009 11:39 pm ET

I love it!!! It's so simple, yet eye catching....and yes it makes sense. I know nothing about this woman, but I like her style. There's somthing to be said for down to earth and uncomplicated!!

daehttub   September 24th, 2009 11:37 pm ET

This embarrassment comes as no surprise to those of us who watched Carly’s shameless campaign of self-promotion while she ran HP into the ground. Only a true narcissist would carry on in this manner after such an embarrassing run on the McCain campaign where she, in so many words, implied she would be better than McCain in running a corporation, ergo, the country…

SB   September 24th, 2009 11:32 pm ET

I thought CA already had a republican governor?
Why are the GOP's on this post talking about how badly CA is being run now?

Babs   September 24th, 2009 11:30 pm ET

And so it begins, the left's Alinsky rule number whatever – attempt to humiliate, demean, minimize. I believe the actual website is coming, that this is a placeholder until that time. So I will reserve judgment until I see the real thing, as impartial media should also do. Ya listening, CNN?

Dan   September 24th, 2009 11:29 pm ET

she sucked at HP, and she'll suck as a Senator.

Hope none of you bought HP stock when she was at the helm.

Buzz Daly   September 24th, 2009 11:28 pm ET

Give me a break. If you are a working person, the last thing you should do is vote for the Queen of Outsourcing. She is a total disaster, and, is clearly someone who has no clue about how we got in our current mess. You go girl.

Alex from Berkeley, CA   September 24th, 2009 11:26 pm ET

Everyone is over-reacting to the website for some reason, but regardless, not somebody I will be voting for.

Gentwelve   September 24th, 2009 11:26 pm ET

That's too bad because as a Democrat barbara Boxer is second only to Nancy Pelosi in the pathetic category and both give California an bad rap! Babs has got to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Slaton   September 24th, 2009 11:25 pm ET

If its so simple and uses black and white imagery like "dogs vs. cats" then the average republican should have no problem understanding it.

Al, California   September 24th, 2009 11:24 pm ET

Barbara Boxer is one of best senators we have. She was among 23 senators that voted against Iraq war.

Fiorina is a product of ad-marketing driven "economy", brought down HP, supported McCain, and now trying to replace Barbara – this is ridiculous.

skay   September 24th, 2009 11:22 pm ET

Why, after her record and misdeeds at HP, anyone would vote for this woman is beyond my comprehension. She is as ruthless as they come and was a disaster when she was "helping" McCain.

Dem in AZ   September 24th, 2009 11:22 pm ET

Repubs are just not hip lol

That's funny   September 24th, 2009 11:19 pm ET

It doesn't matter WHO runs for WHAT, if it's a Republican then this is the kind of article they get. Reality is subjective nowadays. Fiorina will get the Palin treatment, while ANY woman running as a Democrat can do no wrong. Any system like that is not long for this world. Besides, if you people in California were so smart YOUR STATE WOULDN'T BE BROKE! Bunch of idiots, keep blowing each other's horn, it's gotten you where you are today.

ER   September 24th, 2009 11:17 pm ET

Californian – Your liberal politians are responsible for wrecking your state!!!!!!! Nancy Pelosi Ha Ha! Save the fish – ruin the human.

T   September 24th, 2009 11:13 pm ET

She was crazy as a McCain spokesman.... her site just confirms that..

she's nuts and too valley girl to be taken seriously.

Megan   September 24th, 2009 11:12 pm ET

Looks like she's running for sorority president. She has no chance against Boxer, anyway. May as well give everyone a laugh in the process.

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   September 24th, 2009 11:09 pm ET

Carleyfornia Dreamin'!!!

How long did it take to come up with that GEM? 30 seconds?

Boring!

henry   September 24th, 2009 11:08 pm ET

It may be bad, but the free publicity works in her favor. I actually looked at it.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   September 24th, 2009 11:04 pm ET

Perhaps Palin, McCain and Joe The Plumber can add some substance to her next attempt? NOT!

JS007   September 24th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Fiorina is an idiot and a failure. I'm still struggling to understand how she ever got picked to run Hewlett Packard. She can't even manage to launch a decent campaign website.

Michael   September 24th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

I don't think Carly's website could ever be as big a joke as Foxnews.com. This supposed news site is just a shill for the right wing. I laugh about it everyday but today is especially good where they try to connect children singing a song, taught to them by some crazy teacher, with brain washing. I'd be happy to put these comments on their site, but then they spend so much time blocking anyone who disagrees with them, non of us can post.

Fact Check The Message Boards   September 24th, 2009 10:58 pm ET

Basically Republicans are a joke anymore...

Mike   September 24th, 2009 10:55 pm ET

How is this news?

4 generations and had to leave   September 24th, 2009 10:54 pm ET

they need someone new in Calif, Boxer Fienstine and Pelosi have trashed California, they are not even native, I am from a family of 4 generations of Californians and my hubby 5 gen, and we had to leave a year ago, we could not stand it anymore, all our grown children left also, their policies destroyed the great state, they need to go back to where their were born and let natives take their place, people who love the state

jsamples   September 24th, 2009 10:51 pm ET

That's funny. People think the technology behind the website makes the person? A plain marquee banner would have sufficed to get the message out that Carly was going to kick Boxer's ass. I think the webpage is fine for the message it send. What were you all expecting, 3D and a slew of george lucas visual effects ??

Sue   September 24th, 2009 10:50 pm ET

It looks like the juvenile doodlings of a middle schooler. All it's lacking are dotting the letters i with hearts........

Ryan B   September 24th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

How is this News!!!

Anonymous   September 24th, 2009 10:48 pm ET

Sadly, CNN thinks this is news.

Drew Heitner   September 24th, 2009 10:47 pm ET

Don't let them cajole you into a feeling that she is marginal and silly. That is the blind-side.
Remember who America wanted most to have a beer with 9 years ago.....
THis is serious stuff and she is a dangerous indivdual.

Lee   September 24th, 2009 10:42 pm ET

Is there anything we can do to just get California to succeed from the Union? I promise nobody would start a Civil War to bring them back.

Dan   September 24th, 2009 10:35 pm ET

CNN does it again! Run a story about a Republican's web-site that is much to do with nothing on their web sites front page. But nothing about school children singing praises to Obama! You CNN, show your hand every day. Every day I see how you hide anything that is a story, but one that would be negative to the Democrats. You where slow about the ACORN and a no show about Obama's green czar. But this "Republicans" web-site... You should rename yourself to say... the Obama News Network or maybe The Democrat News Network.

Peachy Keen   September 24th, 2009 10:23 pm ET

This woman had no idea what she was doing at HP, so why in the world does she think she can be a Senator. As a pundit for McCain, she totally messed that up too. Come on Carly, go find a real job that's not above your abilities.

California export   September 24th, 2009 10:22 pm ET

I laugh at all the idiots who say Fiorina has done nothing of note. How many of you became CEO of a Fortune 500 company? Let's also examine who brought California to it's knees. Fix the stupid inane legislative system and maybe things can get done. We've had a Democratic Governor get recalled and a Republican Governor in a headlock with a Democratic Legislature...

Jeff   September 24th, 2009 10:22 pm ET

"There's very little information on it to appeal to voters."
–Well, duh, She's a Republican!!!!!!! Since when do facts and information matter to Republican voters.

tim   September 24th, 2009 10:21 pm ET

im a republican.

all i gotta say is . . . ummm what? seriously. i dont get it.

RandyW   September 24th, 2009 10:17 pm ET

So she was the CEO of HP, one of largest computer companies and makes a joke of a web page. Goes to prove all these corporate CEOs are a joke and not worth the millions they take form their share holders. All they are good for is sending millions of American jobs overseas.

jackson   September 24th, 2009 10:16 pm ET

Sweet! There is someone dumber than Sara Pilon, looks like this is the best the GOP has to offer. The said part is that people actually vote for these idiots. Doesn't say much for the GOPer's.

Liberals are Hypocrites!   September 24th, 2009 10:13 pm ET

Go, Carly!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Never mind the DemocRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bryan   September 24th, 2009 10:08 pm ET

So Carly ran HP into the ground? How many states have the Democrats run into the ground? California, Illinois, Massachusetts, etc... If Carly truly did run HP into the ground and the shareholders of HP kicked her out, at least they had more sense than the moronic voters who keep putting Democrats in control of these washed up states.

One more point to be made   September 24th, 2009 10:05 pm ET

A lot of you guys are hacks though. Your criticisms are no more substantial than her ad. JUst quippy cheap shots that have relevance to anything in the article or in her background. Don't get me wrong, there were insight comments, but when all you can do is call all Republicans "terrorists" and add quips like "typical Republican "corny and Clueless" come to mind. This is shameful discourse. You are making such widereaching and stereotyping statements insulting whole groups. If it was witty, or insightful, ok... But that is just not very much fun to read and is not stimulating good conversation.

P.S. Hey Republicans promote fear to win guy, what in the world? Maybe a liuttle over the top with the paranoia? A little pot calling the kettle black as well? Come down off the ledge and back to a society where people don't just throw out hateful speech and yell at each other... OR keep leading the way there...

Laughing independent   September 24th, 2009 9:58 pm ET

Not a surprise from the lady who almost destroyed HP and actually said none of the presidential candidates could run a company. Does she share the same advisors as Sarah Palin?

u2canfail   September 24th, 2009 9:58 pm ET

I luv it, did she ask Sarah what to do?

Proud Boulder Liberal   September 24th, 2009 9:58 pm ET

As a feisty, liberal Democrat (who does try to play fair–at least I hope), I say: "Give her a break!"

There are many really tasteless not to mention scary websites out there!

One point to be made   September 24th, 2009 9:56 pm ET

I went to the site. I would say it is entirely unsubstantial. She does not even give the normal, vague ambiguous positions politicians give. "Vote for Pedro" was more informative. Now that guy had a platform. This lady is saying... well, that she is running against Boxer. I am not sure she has even won the right to say that yet, so the only thing it even implies, is not actually the case?

Anyway, I am on the politcal right, but I am not a hack. Bad is bad... and this is bad in so many ways.

Brad   September 24th, 2009 9:52 pm ET

am i the only one who actually likes the site?

regardless, what a fantastic news story to cover. good work CNN!

Limbaugh is a liberal   September 24th, 2009 9:49 pm ET

Isn't this the same CEO who drove HP into the ground and left in disgrace? Thought so.

dr.mimi de la cruz   September 24th, 2009 9:49 pm ET

For all or rather in spite of her education< Carley is the
same kind of moron as Palin, who has no education.
She couldn't get elected the California dog-catcher.

Peter E   September 24th, 2009 9:47 pm ET

You know when somebody tries to put their name in the state's name, no matter from which party, they are really just asking to be made fun of.

Randy, San Francisco   September 24th, 2009 9:46 pm ET

Fiorina is another overpaid CEO who was rewarded for failure with a 21 million dollar severance package. Her reputation as a brilliant and successful financial leader is a myth.

Ex HPer   September 24th, 2009 9:45 pm ET

Carly failed at Lucent, she failed at HP, she failed as a McCain advisor, and now she wants to fail as a senator? Lets hope her record speaks for itself and she never gets the chance to fail as a senator. Even, and I can't believe I am saying this, even Palin would be better at that job.

m smith   September 24th, 2009 9:41 pm ET

Is there something in the water or does it just seem like most of the nut jobs are republicans? They can bash the president all they want but it still comes back to all the political crazies in their own party. She may be smart but something happens when they get into politics. They really think this is the stuff we want to see and hear? How insulting can you get. But maybe she is just talking to her party's base. Then I can understand the stupidity.

~D~   September 24th, 2009 9:38 pm ET

Are you kidding me?! It's a great idea. It's got everyone talking about her! (!!!)

Paul   September 24th, 2009 9:37 pm ET

What a surprise! Another daily left-leaning article by CNN. Keep that credibility up! Tune in tommorrow to find out about Limbaughs latest drug prescription and how the President reads bed-time stories to the girls every night.

Bill the Cat   September 24th, 2009 9:33 pm ET

Palin/Fiorina for 2012!
Ack.

rkidd   September 24th, 2009 9:32 pm ET

Any press is good press, I'd never heard of her until this article.

Bill in VT   September 24th, 2009 9:26 pm ET

She ran Hewlett Packard into the ground almost... she shouldn't be in politics. No woman should be allowed to run for public office anyway, including Palin and ol' Hil.

Acornie   September 24th, 2009 9:22 pm ET

It would be a disaster if she couldn't speak using a telepromptor – just a disaster.

terry   September 24th, 2009 9:15 pm ET

cnn's calls this story newsworthy? slow newsday i guess...

diamond j   September 24th, 2009 9:12 pm ET

anybody would be better than b.boxer.

Concerned   September 24th, 2009 9:10 pm ET

Her leadership at HP was a disaster but HP made out like a bandit it the long run. For those who have no idea, HP got Compaq and all their knowledge. Some of the best servers are called Prolient G Series and are among the best in the industry.

That was the only good thing she did at HP even though the way she did it was lame. Can't blame for walking away with several millions and a slap on the wrist.

If she becomes governer of CA, God help them! CA is already in the dumps and it is the laws or lack there of that cause CA to be in this mess. No governer, DEM or REPUB can make a dent in that state unless the laws change to allow a better way of collecting taxes.

charlie in Maine   September 24th, 2009 9:06 pm ET

Didn't she run H.P. into an iceberg. Yeah she is ready for the GOP. She is the only one McCain could have picked that would be worse than "no Quitter" Palin.

Scott   September 24th, 2009 9:03 pm ET

What? You were expecting substance?

The Real Tom Paine   September 24th, 2009 9:00 pm ET

Its unbelievable that anyone could take her seriously. Its seems as thought the only new blood the GOP can attract are well-connected, bored ex-CEOs who can only demonstrate why they are out of work in the first place. Fiorina obviously did not learn to use the medium she used to be in charge of, namely technology, and obviously never took a marketing course. I hope she wins sthe primary so she can be symbolic of how the over-confident GOP will be led to the slaughter in 2010 and 2012 gneral elections.

windrider   September 24th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

Let's see: the ethically-challenged HP-fired ex CEO or the former president of WWE (wrestling shtick). Are these really the best women the Republican Party can find? Well, I suppose the party that gave us a bug exterminator (Tom DeLay) probably thinks these two are somehow qualified, but as what? Walking funnels of government aid into more corporate welfare?

I think this country is seriously losing its mind, or what's left of it.

MikeMinNC   September 24th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

Wonder why Fiorina never got another CEO job after HP?

smiff   September 24th, 2009 8:59 pm ET

Cali is on the verge of becoming a third world country and politicians with money and boredom still flock to the place. Of course Mexico being just across the desk from every dime taken in doesnt help. That and Ahnold.....you know.....not really goovinator but played one on tv...or maybe but stayed at a hooliday inn spress the night before he became goovinator. Those are the qualifications to run for public office in this country ....right? No one in washington has better to be honest!!

Georgia   September 24th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

GREAT! She is PERFECT! Another Incompetent Republican!

She nearly ran HP into the ground which shows she has the ability to run CA!

Remember: Republican's = Incompetence!

AC   September 24th, 2009 8:58 pm ET

She destroyed HP for a few years, why give her control over anything else. She's an overhyped hack!

xargaw   September 24th, 2009 8:54 pm ET

Isn't she the one that flamed out in the McCain Campaign and got asked to step down? Makes you wonder just what kind of candidate she will be. She sure ran HP in the ground before she left.

Dan   September 24th, 2009 8:54 pm ET

This is funny. Maybe as funny as "yes we can" from an unexperienced guy who did nothing.....

Pheemy   September 24th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

Its amazing how fast people forget. This woman Fiorina caused hundreds of Americans to lose their jobs when she was the head of HP. She prefered to move several jobs to India and other countries at the expense of American workers and almost ran the company to the ground. Now she wants to be the governor of California at this point in the economy of that state? I sincerely hope this is one huge joke.

DOC   September 24th, 2009 8:52 pm ET

I like it!

Jason   September 24th, 2009 8:50 pm ET

Calling the Huffington Post "left leaning" is like calling the Titanic a slightly large boat. I doubt CNN would call The Drudge Report "right leaning". Typical media bias. Anyone who believes anything posted to this blog is blind, blind, blind.

mytabloids   September 24th, 2009 8:48 pm ET

Ah, yes. The perfect GOP candidate; she took her company down the drain, so she's the perfect person to help CA get its economic house in order! Excellent plan!

And, on top of it, she's arrogant! What could be better. GoCarly!

Mark   September 24th, 2009 8:44 pm ET

While HP was under Carly's leadership it was fiscally unsound; had no direction; and became a demoralized place to work. It was the celebrity status that kept her going while the company floundered as she was in it for herself. Republican or Democrat it does not matter, HP's performance under Carly speaks for itself. Thank Mark Hurd for saving HP, maybe he should run for Governor since he brought HP back from near death.

With California in its dire financial situation a leader with sound fiscal responsibility is what is needed, not another celebrity or celebrity wanna-be.

Perusing-through   September 24th, 2009 8:44 pm ET

AND TO THINK . . . she was the head of a high-tech corporation. Her website fails the marketing test because it is so cheesy. It fails the message test because it so corny. And it fails the test of imagination.

Now watch Carly blame her staff for the disaster :-)

vick   September 24th, 2009 8:43 pm ET

Well GOP is a joke overall anyways and Democrats are very smart but they need to get their act togather and get this Health Care Done!!!!!

Jay   September 24th, 2009 8:43 pm ET

Fiorina is just another Republican joke. "Republican" and "serious candidate" are two things that just don't go together anymore. They're all crazy, irrational, racist, deluded, or some or all of those. I want no part of any of them.

Pete   September 24th, 2009 8:41 pm ET

Come on republicans. Open your eyes! We lefties aren't bashing her cause she's one of you. We're bashing her cause she's an imbecile.

JohnJacobJingleHeimerSmith   September 24th, 2009 8:37 pm ET

She is taking a page of crazy from the Palin playbook. I think Republicans are trying to take out a patent on crazy.

Bob   September 24th, 2009 8:32 pm ET

Carly for California? No thanks. On the other hand, Carly and Palin sure make voting blue look good...

adm   September 24th, 2009 8:31 pm ET

I hopes she drops out of the race. I don't want her as Governor of California. We have had enough of the repubs.

Robert   September 24th, 2009 8:28 pm ET

One visit to see an idiot's website and mock it doesn't turn into a return visit unless the next attempt is even more lame. Dream on about this being some marketing coup by Carly. She drove HP into the ground because she is incompetant and dim. Hundreds of jobs were lost in my neighborhood because of her ineptness.

debbie   September 24th, 2009 8:22 pm ET

That's really kind of embarrassing and childish – as a marketing professional with a background in communications, and politics, I have to wonder at Fiorina. On the other hand, the American people are pretty susceptible to this kind of junk, as evidenced by their tolerating George Bush for eight years.

Jason   September 24th, 2009 8:19 pm ET

Carly:

Can you see Russia from Silicon Valley?

David from WI   September 24th, 2009 8:16 pm ET

Still, people are talking about the site. It is getting more attention being bad than it would being mediocre.
Really is a stupid thing to talk about to begin with.

I guess the Dems really are on the way out. The far left are pushing their party off the cliff and they don't care.
So much for the Democrat party under the controll of these new 21st century progressives.

Ooooo my sites better than yours. Such a juvenile party. The GOP might be a train wreck but the Dems of today seem to be run by angry immature adolescents. Whaaaa he called me a lier !!!! Whaaaaa. Bunch of Orwellian children.

djean   September 24th, 2009 8:14 pm ET

""""We in California are so ready for Carly Fiorina! Finally someone who understands economics, personal responsibility, government's role in America, how to do things that work, national defense….etc. She is a brilliant woman.""""""
Um, you just might want to check into what she inflicted on Hewlett-Packard and Compaq.
She obviously does not understand economics, except her own paycheck at the expense of others, she took no responsibility for screwing over H/P and thousands of its employees and stockholders, she waltzed out with a golden parachute – oh wait!!! She IS a Republican!!!!!

Jason   September 24th, 2009 8:12 pm ET

I am long time democrat, but I would vote for the devil himself, before I throw my vote for a democrat this next election.

Still at War. No Health Care with a Puplic Option, Poverty not being addressed. And we control the White House, The House, and The Senate.

3 x 0 = 0

Tony from Novato   September 24th, 2009 8:12 pm ET

Let's see...this is the person who:
1. Ran HP into the ground with the botched Compaq merger
2. Got booted from HP for that
3. Allegedly hired a PI to go thru board member's personal communications to see who was for her and who was against WITHOUT their consent
4. Couldn't be bothered to vote in quite a few elections
5. Couldn't be bothered to register her *ahem* charitable foundation with the state of California.

And now she's thinking of running for governor? Good luck, Carly...you're gonna need every last shred of it and then some!

T'SAH from Virginia   September 24th, 2009 8:07 pm ET

She's DREAMIN' alright!!! She will soon wake up from the NIGHTMARE on CarlyFORNIA Street!! ..LOL

Steve C   September 24th, 2009 8:07 pm ET

You libs are just so cool and hip. Who knows what she stands for- she has a dumb website (or so people say) she must suck! Go Boxer- California is doing so well under your and Feinstiens' leadership!

Oh yes- the republican criticism in this article is minimal. Give me a break. Nice job CNN.

Linda in CA   September 24th, 2009 7:55 pm ET

Comment by "Four and The Door"
--
Well said! The incompetent liberals have ruined California but we will clean house in 2010.

joel palmer   September 24th, 2009 7:29 pm ET

Poor old republicans just don't get it; voters threw out the advocates of "big business" Bush Cheney and McCain and what does the gop come up with? Meg Whitfield and Carly Fiorino; two clueless and tonedeaf CEOs who think they can call the shots just like they did when thier Boards had no balls.

Those days are over forever; it looks like the gop will wander in the desert for a couple or three more presidential terms. If they ever stop being obstructionsists who hate minorities and immigrants and realize that coprorations don't vote; they might actually win somthing more than Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. bwhahahahaha

Jacob   September 24th, 2009 7:26 pm ET

will McCain be endorsing her? i doubt it....and not getting endorsement from that loser spells TROUBLE!

Kelvin   September 24th, 2009 7:25 pm ET

This wouldnt be a top story if it were a democrats website.

Hannah   September 24th, 2009 7:22 pm ET

I love the way republicans attach themselves to losers. Bush was four time loser, trashing four businesses and Palin is another, a quiter who has never done much of anything in her life except look good. We as a nation need to have winners for leaders. We have the best right now and need to support him and his administration to bring this country from the brink (bush/cheney disaster). I guess you have to say that republicans are losers.

billp   September 24th, 2009 7:22 pm ET

Carly is easier on the eyes than both Boxer and Whitman, so she'll have my vote.

Frank, Las Vegas   September 24th, 2009 7:19 pm ET

And this is what the GOP offers for America?

Randy   September 24th, 2009 7:18 pm ET

Leave it to Democrats and Obama supporters to spout sexist remarks about dumb females running for office. Barbara Boxer and Pelosi are a couple of geniuses.

mike   September 24th, 2009 7:16 pm ET

Unless you live in California, you have no idea how pathetic our political atmosphere has become. Wait, I forgot ALL America must suffer with pelosi. Sorry about that. Never mind.

Age.axx   September 24th, 2009 7:16 pm ET

It would be about right if they used the Carlyfornia Dreamin' / John Philips theme. She could help Arnold have his way with us in CA.

Mike, FL   September 24th, 2009 7:15 pm ET

After Arnold screwd CA just like Bush screwed the country, no one in his/her right mind will elect a Republican governor in CA again!!

Mike, FL   September 24th, 2009 7:13 pm ET

Does GOP still exists?

Steve R.   September 24th, 2009 7:12 pm ET

Carly did to HP what Arnie did to CA what W. did to the USA. Hit me again.

Richie   September 24th, 2009 7:11 pm ET

I don't think there's anything left for Carly to do in California. I mean, isn't it already in the toilet?

Peter   September 24th, 2009 7:10 pm ET

This lady cannot even manage her own kitchen! sole looser!

Tracy   September 24th, 2009 6:07 pm ET

LOL ... not sure who she hired but would love to know what she paid them. Doesn't matter, she's getting free print ... next week the site will evolve into something else and this whole uproar will be old news. As a former HP employee while Carly was in charge,I wish CA all the best (not a Boxer fan and I'm a democrat) but please there has to other choices.

cl   September 24th, 2009 6:07 pm ET

Yep! she a Republican alright. Silly one liner jokes.

kimberly   September 24th, 2009 6:06 pm ET

I thought the Carlyfornia was a smack at Arnold, I mean it sounds like the way he says california. HAHA...She is an idiot, and no thats not a left talking point. She nearly ruined HP and was a huge failure there. Even Mccain ran from this loose cannon..Please right wing, stop defending these morons, look for someone with a brain. We dont trample ALL the right wing, even if Idont agree with them AT ALL, i atleast can see a nut job when its in my face. We have them on the left, but you have them in spades on the right..demand someone with a brain

I used to be a Democrat   September 24th, 2009 6:05 pm ET

If its so bad then why is everybody talking about it?

GOP   September 24th, 2009 6:01 pm ET

Wow more classless liberal democrats still crying about Bush.

Sick of the Uncivil   September 24th, 2009 6:00 pm ET

The woman is a bafoon! She has no political savvy at all... her work on McCain's campaign is a case in point! When she was CEO, she practically ran HP into the ground. Glad she's running. Barbara Boxer will KO her, pronto!

hm,florida   September 24th, 2009 6:00 pm ET

Oh god, hope she isn't trying to be like Palin. Sounded dumb enough though!!

Say Hey   September 24th, 2009 5:59 pm ET

It is an incredible mystery why some people take Fiorina seriously. As mentioned in other posts, she totally messed up Hewlett-Packard and left in disgrace. She seems to have no concern (or conscience) about her obvious problem with ethics, so one can only imagine what that would mean if by some miracle she was elected governor. She really has accomplished nothing of note, although she has exhibited a weird, Palinesque ability to draw support from people who should know better. That she even has any sort of support at all for political office demonstrates what's wrong with the Republican party.

Jackie in Dallas   September 24th, 2009 5:59 pm ET

GOP, remember that a lot of the criticism came from members of her OWN party, your party, the GOP!

On the other hand, it DOES seem to have drawn attention, as you so aptly stated.

I find the term "carlyfornia dreamin'" rather amusing, as a professional writer. Of course, she couldn't have known the storm of contraversy that blew up this week over MacKinsey Phillips accusations that her father committed incest with her. Puts a different spin on the phrase in the current context.

Deuce   September 24th, 2009 5:59 pm ET

Now all she has to do Is Flip-Flop for the next six month, and shes's doing an Obama. He made it? Well for about another six months..

scott winter haven   September 24th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

It looks like the democraps already have there Obama talking points. "She ran HP into the ground" you guys march like sheep being lead to the slaughter. BBBAAAAAHHHHH

GaryB   September 24th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

Let Carly do for California what she did for HP! Oh wait, California has ALREADY been run into the ground.

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   September 24th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

WOW... Boob Palin has competition for GOP Airhead of the Year!!

Deuce   September 24th, 2009 5:57 pm ET

Bad or Good. Get recognised. She did it... And on CNN. Publicity is priceless.. Good or bad...

JP   September 24th, 2009 5:56 pm ET

Yeah guys, she was the real deal for HP/Compaq.

Why would someone who almost ran that company into the ground be the one to turn around California and handle federal funds and policy?

Either the Repub's pool is awfully shallow or they just can't reward thier corporate contributors enough... Either way, keep picking winner's guys, Dem's love it!

Michael   September 24th, 2009 5:56 pm ET

Typical republican: corny and clueless.

Ollie   September 24th, 2009 5:56 pm ET

This from a woman who was in MARKETING???

Jay T.   September 24th, 2009 5:55 pm ET

Do people not remember how McCain had to distance himself from this woman because of the ridiculously dumb things she said? So, if you do, this is no surprise. If you don't, you'll forget about this by election time and probably vote for her anyway.

Tracy-Oakley   September 24th, 2009 5:55 pm ET

Isn't she the one that did a such poor job with HP that she got fired.

Bush's "Suck"cess: My Pet Goat, Mission Accomplished & Heckuva Job Brownie   September 24th, 2009 5:54 pm ET

And NOW they wonder why she drove HP intothe ground?!

scott winter haven   September 24th, 2009 5:53 pm ET

I see nothing wrong with it. Boxer is a left wing nut bag! Her, Pelosi and Reid along with the other Obama bath water drinkers are out in 2010.

GOP   September 24th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

I like to point out her idea seems to have caught the attention of a good many people and maybe that was her plan. Some times what looks stupid could be a very smart plan.

Again, it shows what childish people the Democrats are and how they enjoy poking fun at others just because they are too dumb to understand her webs meaning!

I hope she beats Boxer down so bad you liberals will say she cheated just as you do in every election you lose to a Republican.

Hmmm.....   September 24th, 2009 5:52 pm ET

Let the people decide- starnger things have happened.

Sam I Am   September 24th, 2009 5:51 pm ET

We Californians know Florina left Hewlett-Packard in disgrace after she drove the company into the ground, and was busted for ethics violations.
She has done nothing of note, other than to pretty much screw up everything she's tried to do. And now, this purported tech-savvy woman comes up with a website a 15 year old kid could have done in an hour. This is the best she can do? No thanks. I'll vote for whoever is running against her.

Thanks but No thanks You betcha! (and also)   September 24th, 2009 5:51 pm ET

I'm REALLY glad I don't live in California. The political scene seems more like a bad joke with no punch line.
First the Governator.
Then the Govergooglenator.
Now Carlyfornia Dreamin'.

DJ   September 24th, 2009 5:50 pm ET

Judging by Arnold and George's track record...no thanks. CA is a blue stronghold...she has no chance.

John   September 24th, 2009 5:50 pm ET

The site clearly says "Coming Soon." This happens all the time on the internet, and if it was not for CNN trying to find a reason to make fun of a Republican, no one would even be talking about it. This site is nothing more than a place holder, and it should be viewed as such.

Lew   September 24th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

Yes, how dare a woman step out of the box! As a Republican no less! I personally am glad to see CNN take a stand against Republican women thinking outside the box!

!!!

/smirk

Neal   September 24th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

Same Carly that almost drove HP to the ground, now wants to run for congress?

Jim in Florida   September 24th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

Doh, David, Carly was not McCain's campaign manager, merely a spokesperson. Use facts in your leftist rants please.

No Hillary = No Obama   September 24th, 2009 5:48 pm ET

Bashed? A woman candidate being bashed? How could this be? Get ready Carly because here comes the sexist assaults masquerading as political analysis or commentary. Talk to Hillary about this.

Jim in Florida   September 24th, 2009 5:47 pm ET

Quite the contrary, the media coverage will make this "joke" a popular web site with the curious.

In your efforts to belittle the website – particularly Republicn women like Carly and your obsession with everything Palin you bolster the people, your continued efforts to tear down only strengthens.

mjm   September 24th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

Boy...Huffington Post couldn't wait to attack a Republican, could it?

Califonia is a disaster and this rag news site Huffington Post is critical of a web page? Not California's $42 billion deficit?

Mark   September 24th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

Two republicans bash it so I'm cure CNN wont hesitate huh.

AntiRush   September 24th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

So, they launch a simple website, they get alot of criticism, which means the whole world is now going to the site. Now that millions of people are aware of the site, all they need to do is to ad some content pages, and the campaign is underway. Brilliant!!!!!!!!

Liberal4Obama   September 24th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

LoL. Looks like she paid Sarah Palin to work on her website... from China

Mark   September 24th, 2009 5:46 pm ET

She would still serve CA better than the out of control spending liberals.

Linda K.   September 24th, 2009 5:45 pm ET

If she equates "dog and cat" with "good and bad," then she's lost the vote of those of us who prefer felines.

mrs. reynolds   September 24th, 2009 5:44 pm ET

Go media! Go! Keep giving our lady all this beautiful free publicity. Love it! Huff post, thanks for plugging – all press is good press.

Dark Cobra   September 24th, 2009 5:43 pm ET

Carly's proved herself to be a worthless incompetent idiot on so many levels in the past that one can hardly take anything this " TWIT " says or does as serious. She ran HP into a rat hole and now she resurfaces to finish off California as if we don't have enough problems already. In short . . . lady, go away.

Tara in Santa Barbara   September 24th, 2009 5:43 pm ET

Well at least 40,000 state employees are thinking Carly is already a nightmare.... way to kick off a campaign.
Fat Cats need only apply!

David   September 24th, 2009 5:41 pm ET

Carly couldn't even manage John McCain's campaign and how could she manage her campaign..This is a Joke. I rather support Senator Boxer than Carly Forina who got booted out by the shareholders after the merger of HP and Compaq in which didnt produce no returns on the purchase folks. Did everyone forget about what happen to HP and Carly Forina?

Buddy Gilmour   September 24th, 2009 5:40 pm ET

Carly is the California version of Sarah Palin. I expect her to do well for herself once her tran$ition to politico is complete. Its the only career option she has left!

Californian   September 24th, 2009 5:39 pm ET

We here in California are NOT ready for another Republican as governor. We have seen how republicans wreck states, such as ours, SC and NY, how they wreck cities and how they wreck countries (USA under Bush). ANYTHING but a republican...things go to hell in a hand basket when republicans are elected.

There has only ever been ONE good republican, Lincoln. They have been a worthless lot of terrorists ever since.

If the insurance companies win, YOU LOSE   September 24th, 2009 5:35 pm ET

Why is the Right bashing the "Carlyfornia dreamin!!!" website?

Surely the Right isn't bashing it because it's pointless, ridiculous, and pathetic.

The Right is bashing the site because it just doesn't create FEARS and feed the flames of HATE among the right wing rabble.

And every Republican politician knows that creating FEAR and stoking ANGER is the way to win political elections and debates!

Get with the program, Carly!

Gary   September 24th, 2009 5:32 pm ET

As the head of the Democratic Party, Obama can and should comment on the politics within a state. If the head of the Party honestly believes that it is in the interest of the Party for someone to not run for office, he is obligated to speak up.

Brad   September 24th, 2009 5:20 pm ET

Yet thanks to the media, left, right, whatever, it's getting the exposure Fiorina wants. People don't get it – you don't NEED all that pertinent info, the lemmings called "press" handle all the advertising for you.

Four and The Door   September 24th, 2009 5:17 pm ET

We in California are so ready for Carly Fiorina! Finaly someone who understands economics, personal responsibility, government's role in America, how to do things that work, national defense....etc. She is a brilliant woman.

Welcome Carly!

Nika   September 24th, 2009 5:17 pm ET

Is this really the best time to use "California Dreaming" and evoke the memory of John Phillips for a campaign theme?

Jacob   September 24th, 2009 5:13 pm ET

ridiculous!
NO Carley for California!

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