Clinton camp cautiously optimistic

Posted: Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:33 PM by Domenico Montanaro

From NBC/NJ's Athena Jones
It's fair to characterize the Clinton campaign right now as "cautiously optimistic." They think there were two turning points in the last 72 hours -- the ABC debate and that voters realized she "poured her heart and soul into the state."

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Comments

Sorry Chuck, you and chris did not get the blow out that you worked so hard to achieve. When we get to super tuesday you are going into a deep depression.MSNBC,NBC newsweek, blow it again. Maybe they need to retire the two of you.

Gene Britton (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:46 PM)

If the numbers hold up and Obama loses or wins only slightly, then I must put into writing what I’ve told friends ever since Hillary teared up.

This was orchestrated, and I have no doubt Bill was behind it.

Not only did the media attack Hillary for her eyes welling, but in households around NH, husbands were telling their wives “this is why a woman can’t be President,” or “see, women can’t help but cry all the time.”

And that is why Hillary is up by 12-points with women in NH as opposed to five down in Iowa.

Michael Wear, Buffalo, NY (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:49 PM)

Two things:

Either the national press is being grossly underpaid which is the reason for such a poor performance or they are being way overpaid and they are the ones who are out of touch.

By the way, next time ABC says that 2/3 of democrats voted against Clinton in Iowa, close to 2/3 voted against Barack, and 2/3 voted against Edwards.

I think in New Hampshire the story tomorrow should not be Clinton comeback, but it should be 2/3 of Democrats sent inexperience packing.

Brian, Springfield, MA (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:49 PM)

if tears decides this election, it's going to be a shame when hillary loses to a republican.

justin, nyc (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:53 PM)

Hillary, how DARE you get in the way of hopeful change?

John Doe, Seattle, Wash (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:54 PM)

Go Hillary!! Sick of the News Media telling us who to vote for and their ridiculous biased reporting. Sick of the other candidates putting her down because they think she is the the one to beat. Once again the Democrats are setting themselves up to be defeated in November. And they will have only themselves to blame.

Dee, Tucson, Arizona (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:57 PM)

Dear Friend,
Mrs. Clinton's win in New Hampshire today clearly illustrates that Hell has frozen over.
Go Hillary!!
Manny

Manuel M. Rodriguez (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:57 PM)

If Clinton goes on to hold on to a small lead, it could still be good news for Obama - VERY good news, come to think of it. I can't imagine anything that would get the Obamaniacs more revved up than realizing that, as with any good horror movie, the monster isn't REALLY dead yet. From that standpoint, a second place finish could turn into a first class fundraising opportunity.

And there are still 48 states yet to go....

Sean, Seattle (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 9:58 PM)

why does Hillary get such a hard time from men, I am a man and I would love to see her elected President. I think she is the most capable person running and I don't believe her tears were orchestrated. i would like to see someone with some heart and humanity in the white house

kevin F (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:01 PM)

I'm frustrated with the male commentators who keep asserting that women voted for Hillary because they felt sorry for her when she cried.
Women cry. We dont see it as a sign of weakness. I dont feel sorry for Hillary, but for the first time I can relate to her.

Amanda Bird, Seattle (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:01 PM)

Maybe , and this is just a theory. Maybe people voted for Hillary because Chris Matthews has been a "super Jrk" to her for weeks and even tonight is being bitter and sullen. His comments about "sympathy" wining an election is unprofessional.

Darren, Peekskill, NY (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:02 PM)

Two Things:
I am a african american, I like Sen. Obama but he is not ready to lead a Country that have been damaged. If you notice when Sen. Clinton ask questions inregards to Obama's record he always states change. he never answer the questions. Go Hillary Clinton you have my Vote.

Mr. Allen, Detroit Michigan (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:02 PM)

I also was scared that the obviously fake tears issue may play well with women in NH. I mean, is it a surprise that that happened only a day after she switched her strategy (again) into being the "human" Hillary.

We've seen this from the Clintons before, and it appears it worked.

Paul, Annapolis, MD (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:03 PM)

It's shameful that when a woman wants to get her way, she AND HER HUSBAND has to start crying and whining like babies. Shame on you Hillary! what are you going to do when congress and the senate disagree with you? Or is Bill going to be the "president" again? Its shameful and leaves me still undecided. Edwards is beginning to look pretty tough compared to Obama and the Clinton camp.

RJ Massey, San Antonio (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:06 PM)

As I'm watching the results on MSNBC from Connecticut, I can't help but conclude that Obama is getting Clintoned. Welcome to the Big Leagues, pal. This isn't the Illinois Legislature.

Peter, Portland, Connecticut (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:09 PM)

Chris Matthews and all you republicans it wont matter who wins hilliary or obama you repubs lose,keep hoping chris try and spin it you hater all of you hilliary haters its going to be awful when you wake up for the rest of us GOOD MORNING AMERICA HOW ARE YOU

kenn (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:09 PM)

Real people do real things! If you are a human, you do not pick the things which make you emotional. If; however; you are just acting, then you do what it is that you do best; ACT.

Ronnie Dansby, Portland, Oregon (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:09 PM)

That fact is Independants are voting Democratic. When I see these posts I laugh. Over 50% of Republicans are very angry at Bush. Domestic issues will propel younger people and women to vote for a Democrat. Oh, by the way Justin, if a Republican wins, I will cry, for the future of this country.

P.D. Pa. (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:10 PM)

it will be a shame if this country put's a republican in again. You would think we would have learned our lesson after the 1st time we where scamed. How's that go? Fool me twice! No wonder why other countries think Americans are naive. Let's make a smart choice this time America. Choose wisely, Choose Democracy

Paul Buffalo (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:10 PM)

For all of the pundits who believe that Senator Clinton was so calculated when she dared to show the least bit of emotion, you fault her when she shows no human emotion, you fault her when she shows it. Could it be that you just hate the woman without cause and want to keep the overly critical eye of the press on her thereby avoiding the possibility that your candidate, Mr. Obama, might actually have to explain how in the world he feels that he is qualified to be the leader of the free world with less than two years of experience in Washington! With this country heading into a recession, with this country heading into its' seventh year of the war in Iraq, with gas prices topping $3 per gallon, considering the fact I personally spent $20,000 on perscriptions drugs last year alone, my oldest son can't get health insurance because he can't afford it, considering the fact that our country has never before in history been so hated by other countries of the world, I DEMAND that we have a president who has experience and knowledge in these areas. Experience comes with time. The amount of time a candidate has spent in Washington is not a reason to disqualify them as a candidate for the presidency. However, their record on the issues, or their lack of a record in Mr. Obama's case, certainly is. America better open her eyes and thoroughly examine Mr. Obama and send him back for more grooming and training before he takes on the most powerful job in the world. As for Hillary, she is ready now and my vote goes to her - she is the better candidate, the more electable candidate.

Bruce Higgins, Grand Prairie, TX (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:11 PM)

do you hate all women or just the ones that dont know thier place ,you didnt mind Bushie crying and when hes done with this country youll be crying too,Iraq ,Reccession,Fear,lawless behavior,ohh we need a mommy to clean this country up.

kenn (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:13 PM)

I want to comment on Mr. Allen from Detroit's comment above. What a great commentary on our society and political maturity when an African American is willing not to vote for the first African American with a legitimate shot at the Presidency on the merits. I wish this were 2012 and Obama were coming off several years in the Senate.

Peter, Portland, Connecticut (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:15 PM)

Chris Mathews has turned into a total jerk! The only good think about tonight's broadcast is Keith Olbermann, who always knows what to say at what time!
I am an Edwards supporter but I'm rooting for Hillary to pull this off, mainly to see the sour look on Mathew's face

Maureen Johnson (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:15 PM)

Not sure how anyone could believe the media beat Hillary up over the emotional display of yesterday. She got a straight non-stop 36 hours of free TV and Internet advertising as the media did its "Oh, isn't the puppy cute" reporting.

Betty, Maysville, KY (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:15 PM)

hey first read and athena "vote for obama" jones:

to paraphrase P.T. Barnum "you can't fool all of the people all of the time".

redshift, spokane wa (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:16 PM)

This talking point from the Clintons that Obama has no experience is BS. Obama has actually been an elected public official longer than Hillary. He's laid out as many plans as Hillary.

Joe B, Boston (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:16 PM)

I am an independent who usually votes Republican but I would vote for Obama over Rudy or Romney. I will vote for ANY Republican over Hillary. I am male and the gender gap is real (even in the Democratic party!)and I believe if Clinton is the nominee the Repubs keep the White House.

Dan, Prairieville, LA (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:16 PM)

I am an "older Woman" New Hampshire voter who has backed Barack Obama for months...long before Iowa caucus or the poll count thus far in NH Primary' and I am startled by the current showing. I remain HOPEFUL that as the rest of the precincts report that Barack will in fact win the State of NH enad eventually the nomination of the Democratic Party...and then the Presidency itself!! HOPE remains.

Janice Crosby (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:18 PM)

How funny racheal is because Chris hatesHilliary so much along with scarboro and carlson you begin to wonder why the republicans want so much influence on the democratic process,keep on hating you guys and Bush have scewed the pooch let someone eles try remember 1.oo gas,strengh of nation winning easily under wesley clark and clinton,a mideast peace process that almost succeded but when bush got in he quit it for 6 years yea lets listen to republicans and Cris Mattews and take back the white house,oh bye bye Edwards

kenn (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:19 PM)

Clinton/Obama Ticket :-) That would be great !

george (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:21 PM)

The thing that disturbs me about this race (in addition to the fact that my candidate didn't get the blow-out that I expected, remember he still closed a 20 pt. gap) is that this race for the nomination may be going to be long and divisive. This will be sad for the Democrats. I was hoping that we wouldn't be splintered but I fear that this may be the case.

Because of her war position, I and many other Democrats, will never be able to support Hillary. Not only that but if she wins the nomination, I guarantee that Mike Bloomberg will run as a third party candidate; what a mess!

Barack had a wave after Iowa but Hillary's crying bit yesterday and the pouty 'nobody likes me' routine at the debate on Saturday night's debate, routed the women vote (how shallow). It was like a sandbar that slowed the wave down.

I can only hope that Barack can still put together a victory in Nevada and South Carolina. Then we'll see what happens on Super Tuesday. But no matter what occurs, this is damaging for the concept of a unified Democratic Party. Let's see what Edwards will do.
Obama '08

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:21 PM)

Joe B, length of service in elected office is not the only relevant factor. Would you vote for Ted Kennedy for President?

Peter, Portland, Connecticut (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:24 PM)

Boo Hoo Chuck! you and Chris Matthews are being put in your place by Hillary!!! GO HILL!!!!

Rusty, OKC (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:24 PM)

Gosh dog it, Hillary can't win for all the good ole boys who want to paint her a -itch when she shows strength or a crying woman if she is real.. what is up with all you boys out there? And here we go again with the Bill Clinton bashing.. I am sick of that especially since we were debt free running with a surplus at the conclusion of President Clinton's term and we were not in war nor did we face a recession and loss of jobs while he was there.. give me and the rest of America a break... Hillary, keep on telling it like it is! Barack and Edwards look like a couple of buffoons (sic) next to you!

DWeaver (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:25 PM)

It is amazing how little people understand about the role of government and how it ultimately affects their lives. Rather, it is much easier to be entertained by base and licentious broadcasting and then be "informed" by the corporate advertisers who depend on mass public ignorance to sell their wares. Clinton is genuine alright; genuinely in desire of being president. And that's all any of the democratic and republican candidates bring to the table -- a very strong desire to be president. And that's it.

What saddens me the most is that the only candidate who stands on eons of sage political and economic wisdom -- part of which are the Greek and Roman philosophies upon which this Republic was founded -- is painted as "fringe." What is fringe about supporting the Constitution? It is, after all, the very document each lawyer, soldier, and politician swears to defend. The others promise "change." "Change" meaning larger government, more taxing, hyper-vigilant regulations and more warfare? Why in the hell would anyone in their right mind want any of that?

Publius, State of Surreality (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:25 PM)

After all these years, Hilary decides to "show emotion" on the eve of the potential loss of what she has coveted for this past decade...give me break!!! She may have fooled the women of NH but I for one would rather vote republican than vote for Hilary. Go Obama/Edwards/McCain...there is still something to be said about character and integrity. I can't even type anymore cause I'm choking on bile!

Natasha B, New Haven, CT (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:27 PM)

Chris Matthews is so obviously against Senator Hillary Clinton, that he should step down as a commentator. Sen. Clinton is the best qualified candidate. She has been working for causes that impact children, working people, seniors and the many uninsured. When she tried to make change by working for universal health coverage when she was First Lady, she was critizised unmercifully. She did not give up. She has worked since graduating from law school (and as an undergraduate student) to make changes. She chose to work for causes when she could have gotten a job that would have paid her a lot of money. She fundamentally believes that she must work for the betterment of our society. I will vote for Senator Clinton because she is the best candidate, and she will take care ofbusiness, as she has done her entire life.

Silvia S., Chicago IL (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:28 PM)

Chris Matthews, Scarborough, Chucj Todd and Others at MSNBC, you have shown an anti-hillary coverage in your programs for a very long time. Keep it up. Now we have Fox News for the Republicans and MSNBC for Obama.

You have lost all the credibility...

SR, FL (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:30 PM)

Natasha B, that's what I meant above about being Clintoned. The lack of authenticity is so astoundingly unauthentic, you can't help yourself but to think, "Gosh, she's so authentic."

Hillary just won.

Peter, Portland, Connecticut (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:33 PM)

Yo Chris - All those young people in Hanover that are for Obama, most are registered in their home towns not their college town.

Not a Hillary fan, but I love upsets, especially when the pundits are so out of touch.

Hollis Moore, Philadelphia PA (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:33 PM)

NBC JUST DECLARED HILLARY THE WINNER!!!!!!!!!
WOO HOO!!!!
GO HILL!!!!
BYE BYE BARACK!!!!

Rosie, Grand Rapids, MI (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:33 PM)

Mr. Allen
Get a life. Better yet why don't you spend some time perusing Hillary's record and Bill's while you're at it. You are so concerned that Mr. Obama is not ready, but you're not concerned with electing a Clinton whose background is filled with corruption. Why don't you spend some time at BarackObama.com and learn everything you need to know about Mr. Obama, or do you think another 400 years would be time enough to wait. He is the right candidate, at the right time. The last thing this country needs is people with your backwards mentality casting a vote. You should be tired of the Bush/Clinton monopoly by now. Next you'll be waiting for Chelsea to run, followed by their family dog. Go to YouTube and check out the video that Hillary doesn't want you to see.

Lyn, Maryland (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:34 PM)

Chris/Chuck,
Do you need a tissue?
Go Hill!!!!

Rosie, Grand Rapids, MI (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:35 PM)

Congratz to the Hillary campaign!!!!!111. America is full of Fear again. Good job, Mrs. Karl Rove!!!!!!!

Rick,ky (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:35 PM)

I love the fact that Hillary won!!! It's great to see Chris Mathews eat crow. I have written again and again to MSNBC to protest Chris's treatment of Hillary. No response, of course. I refuse to watch his show because he is no longer credible. Sad because I always loved Hard Ball. Keith Oberman is still the man and Hillary is "our girl." You go, girl!!

Kathleen, Townsend, WI (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:36 PM)

MSNBC jsut declared Hillary the winner
A BIG DISAPPOINTMENT !
I was hoping that Obama would drive a stake through her heart tonight !

What happened ?
Why were the polls so wrong ?
Did women give Hillary the victory ?
Did independents vote in the Republican primary ?

Were the fake tears influential ?

It will be a longer race than I hoped/imagined

You CAN FOOL MOST OF THE PEOPLE some of the time

No idea of what the odds on the nomination are now
Nevada and South Carolina, now
Let's see those polls

Obama/Edwards '08

Sierra, SF (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:37 PM)

i hope people just look for the truth about barack and hillary .because i think that hillary will take us in the future with new hope and change .these are not just words to her. i think barack people are afraid that soon the curtain will be pulled back and i hope its just not to late.i dont want to be scard any more.

helene,cleburne,tx. (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:46 PM)

Maybe at the next state primary, someone should ask Hillary how she is enjoying the White House China and all those 50 some paintings from the White House... or about Ron Paul... I know if she gets in, I will vote Republican!!!

Debz (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:48 PM)

hillary just won nh-im so happy

helene,cleburne ,tx. (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:48 PM)

I hear you Natasha, this is sickening that Hillary fooled the women of NH to vote for her on some calculated tears. Integrity is what I vote on and Obama,Edwards,McCain have that!!

Jess A Denver,CO (Sent Tuesday, January 08, 2008 10:52 PM)

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