First thoughts: What's next for Hillary?

Posted: Friday, June 06, 2008 9:25 AM by Mark Murray
Filed Under: First Thoughts

From Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, and Domenico Montanaro
*** What’s next for Hillary? Today, Clinton hosts a party for her campaign staff at her home in DC. And tomorrow is the day she officially bows out of the presidential race and endorses Obama. But then what? Does she take the Ted Kennedy route and try to be a master of the Senate? Does she opt for the Nixon path to make another run for the White House or even a different office (governor)? Or does she put herself in a better position to be Obama's veep? Clinton has always learned from her mistakes and reinvented herself in the process. As the Atlantic's Josh Green wrote in 2006, she failed as an insurgent first lady trying to overhaul the nation's health-care system and later became a more cautious senator and presidential candidate. And after running as the establishment, experienced, and inevitable candidate against Obama, she then turned herself into the underdog trying to stick up for the underclass. As she asked on Tuesday night, “What does Hillary want?”

*** Sur-prise! The big news today, of course, is Obama’s secret meeting last night with Clinton. It began when Obama’s traveling press discovered that Obama wasn’t on the flight back to Chicago. Then the media raced to Clinton’s Washington home, only to find out that the two met at Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s house in DC. It was very important that Obama was able to get this done before Clinton speaks tomorrow; it might have a positive influence on what she says, assuming the meeting went well. Then again, who knows -- remember that Obama-Elizabeth Edwards meeting didn't go well (or so legend claims). The Obama and Clinton campaigns released this joint statement: “Senator Clinton and Senator Obama met tonight and had a productive discussion about the important work that needs to be done to succeed in November.” The press corps might be mad the meeting was done in such a cloak-and-dagger way. But what choice do we give these candidates when we're staking out so many locations of both candidates at this point?

*** Pander alert: Obama's lucky we're all so obsessed with secret meetings, because his apparent reversal on Jerusalem -- telling AIPAC that the city must remain “undivided” and then backtracking yesterday by saying to CNN's Candy Crowley that the city should be up to negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians – could be used by McCain as an example of inexperience. Did Obama, in his exuberance to win over Jewish voters, just say what the group wanted to hear regarding Jerusalem? Or did he not realize what he was saying? All in all, this wasn't a good moment for Obama. He's just lucky no one noticed -- for now. Look for McCain and the RNC to jump on this a bit today.

*** Bush-McCain watch: Is it good for McCain to ever have a headline that indicates he's moving to closer to Bush on an issue even if the issue is on McCain's strength of national security? Here’s the front page of today’s New York Times: “Adviser Says McCain Backs Bush Wiretaps.” And here’s another Times headline: “Bush Overstated Evidence on Iraq, Senators Report.”

*** Stuck in the middle with you? It’s interesting for veepstakes watchers to see the McCain ask both Charlie Crist, Mitt Romney and Tom Ridge to sign up with Joe Lieberman for the "Citizens for McCain" bipartisan support initiative. It's not hard to imagine that one of these four folks will be McCain's running mate. Is this group an attempt to make the eventual pick look as bipartisan as McCain? Speaking of Lieberman, there’s plenty of news about him today -- whether it’s his “Citizens for McCain” group, his meeting on the Senate floor with Obama on Wednesday, or today’s Washington Post piece looking at his relations with Democrats.

*** On the trail: McCain is in Miami, FL, where he raises money and holds an event on the Everglades. Obama is down in Chicago.

Countdown to Dem convention: 80 days
Countdown to GOP convention: 87 days
Countdown to Election Day 2008: 151 days
Countdown to Inauguration Day 2009: 228 days

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Comments

Experience the change!!!! Obama/Biden 08!!!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=jPev5sEdTjg
(spread the video)

Carrie Maine (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:28 AM)

And where do you think McCain is going to make up the huge difference in votes? If you look at the primary season’s votes, Obama and Clinton each received more votes in comparable state elections (except AZ and TN) than did McCain. Together they received nearly twice as many votes as McCain.

Now I can discount lower GOP voter turnout since McCain wrapped up the nomination early, and there must be some validity to a percentage of GOP voters who took the bait for Limbaugh’s Operation Chaos. Still, there is a huge delta of votes he needs to find just to catch up. We see he is trying to capture some Clinton voters, but that might at best only net him 25% of what she received (why any Clinton voter would vote for McCain is beyond my comprehension). If Obama receives somewhere between 60-75% of her primary voters, he stays well ahead of McCain. So does McCain capture votes from people who just will not vote for an African-American no matter what?

The days of triangulation between Obama, McCain and Clinton are over, and Obama has open field running ahead. Yesterday Chuck Todd laid out some preliminary Electoral College numbers. I agree with most of his basic premises, but I think he has discounted some dynamics and relied on previous voting patterns too much in some states. I foresee a low 300 to mid 300 Electoral College November victory for Obama. I applaud the Obama and DNC strategy to go after all 50 states. I firmly believe the Atlantic coast states of VA, NC, GA (maybe SC); LA (sorry GOP but Katrina is coming home to kill you here); and the western sates of WA, OR, CO, NV and NM will all come home for Obama. I think Obama sweeps the upper Midwest of WI, MN, IA and IL. When you have CA and NY in the bank, it helps a great deal. I just have a gut feeling that TX is up for grabs if the DEMs want to fight for it. As for MI, OH, PA and FL; who knows what will happen.

Will the voting change that much in November from what was recorded in the primaries and caucuses?

Chuck, NY (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:30 AM)

As I watch the blog post I am becoming increasingly concerned about the many supporters of Sen. Clinton who are suggesting they will vote for John McCain. I assume the vast majority of her supporters believe not only in her ability to be President but also in the policies that she would have enacted as President.

That being said I ask, no, I implore you to reconsider voting for McCain to spite the Democratic Party for not electing your candidate to be its nominee. If you don’t feel particularly loyal to the party (which I understand) please be loyal to your candidate.

John McCain has promised to overturn Rowe v. Wade through his choices for Supreme Court Justices.

John McCain (CPT, USN, ret.) has stood in opposition to a new GI bill that would send Iraq veterans to college simply because he doesn’t fell that being shot at during multiple 12 and 16 month tours should be considered “sufficient” service to the country.

John McCain has said that the mortgage crisis that was perpetuated partly by his own economic advisor as well as through consistent de-regulation of oversight agencies is not the government’s responsibility to correct.

John McCain voted against a law that would punish employers for unequal pay for women who hold the same or comparable positions as men. He said it would cause “too many lawsuits”. (I thought the point of civil justice was to give the people standing to air grievances against the system)

John McCain voted on multiple occasions to deprive New Orleans of various types of aid after the city was devastated by Hurricane Katrina.

John McCain now supports the tax cuts he voted against and is now opposed to his own immigration bill.

These views do not just stand in opposition to Sen. Hillary Clinton; I suggest that they offend her. It would be a shame to force her to explain to her daughter and maybe her future granddaughters why they can’t hope to receive equal pay or why their friends don’t have healthcare or why their body isn’t theirs to make decisions about all because her supporters abandoned her corps beliefs in a fit of anger, disappointment or both.

Please do not allow disappointment to prevail. The choices he makes will be burdened on our children and grand-children. Will we tell them that the reason women’s rights have been set back a decade is because we were angry at the results of the primary season? Will we tell our children that their civil liberties have been exchanged for spite and mistrust? Throughout this season young people have come out in droves to support a hopeful future. It is not because they are naive; it is just that we taught them that hard work can achieve anything.

Cedric, Columbia, MD (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:31 AM)

What's next for Hillary? That's easy! She needs to start preparing her defense in the fraud lawsuit against her.

Obama/Sebelius in 2008. Integrity matters and the Clintons have none.

Sick of corruption, sick of the Clintons (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:32 AM)

The clinton's endorsement may influence women, and other American to support Obama!

Obama really does need those voters.

** For discounts on Barack Obama products $8.99 & Up. Use this coupon at this Obama Store http://www.MyObamaStore.com
Coupon - Obama-X2Y9-10 (10% OFF)

pmob67@hotmail.com (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:34 AM)

This notion that Barack is just an empty suit with a teleprompter is too funny. We just finished a trial by fire, and he achieved the wildly improbable in wresting control of the Party from the entrenched and formidable Clinton political machine. He demonstrated cool, disciplined leadership and the ability to strategize and organize in the most complex of political environments; an entire Democratic Party primary season.

If you take the time to acquaint yourself with the candidate instead of gullibly swallowing every spoonful of campaign drivel, you will find that he is also remarkably self-aware for such a gifted politician. He knows where the pitfalls lie. That doesn’t mean he won’t step in a hole now and then, but Barack’s a quick study and learns from his mistakes. Time to close ranks and spin those guns around, little troopers. Let’s stop shooting at each other and direct fire where it belongs; at the Republican Party who got us into a mess that is now neck deep and rising.

jaycee, Ventura, CA (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:35 AM)

I don't see how saying a city must remain undivided (unified), but be open to negotiations is any sort of backtracking. He didn't say "resolute in FAILURE to negotiate"...?

Ron, TX (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:35 AM)

You are behind on the jerusalem story. Jake Tapper has the details up on his blog with the Obama camp's position.

brian (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:40 AM)

Pander alert: I see no gaffe for Obama's or apparent reversal on Jerusalem obama has given his specifics.
I'm sure unlike Hillary Obama can explain himself.

Hillary voted for the Iraq war; emulated Barack’s methodical grassroots’ organizational skills with only one intent in mind; to prove Barack un-electable. Hillary left no cave or island unexplored or rock unturned. She ran the most negative campaign; distorted truths, cried misogyny, racism, unfair media treatment, and told lies, to further her cause. Folk, don’t forget Hillary Clinton is not patent. The Nobel Peace Prize winner and former First Minister of the province Lord Trimble of Lisnagarvey said “Hillary Clinton had no direct role in bringing peace to Northern Ireland and is a "wee bit silly" for exaggerating the part she played”. Hillary’s intention may not have been to divide and conquer; nonetheless, that is the effect of the mess she has caused.
Bill Clinton refusal to reveal financial records for his library; Kuwait, Dubai, speaking engagements, NAFTA, Columbia, Whitewater, Lincoln Bedroom, Norman Hu and lies about Monica, indicates no change.
Change is a fresh, new, face, for America, i.e... Barack Obama. Clintons are old, corrupt, policy makers. Hillary’s Peter Paul campaign fraud is after the November election. That should be very interesting news; Google Hillary project hillcap.org/. She squandered her campaign funds. Say no to VP for her.
I certainly hope once Hillary comes out of their meeting with presumptive nominee Barack Obama she will sincerely release her troops, stop her slander, and not continue to go contrary to the DNP. The VP is normally chosen at the convention.

Stop the Davis and Johnson petitions for your VP position.
I’m positively hoping she can pledge herself to honest, unity because she is a hard worker.

Beverly in Chicago (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:41 AM)

There's a lot of new blogger's, mostly Barack Obama supporter's who have recently came to 1st read. There's also several new ones that have one thing in mind, Tear Barack down at all cost.We witnessed this thruout the Primary season & put them to bed. Now, with the General election campaign beginning, all of us Barack supporter's will have to put them to bed also. The task won't be easy(a daily battle)but we'll be eventially rewarded when Barack takes the oath of office in Janurary-2009.We'll have the Muslim,Wright, Flagler, Flag Pin, Patriotism do over. Our will is as Strong as Our candidate, so 5 month's down, 5 month's to go to cross the final hurdle.

Jerry in Corpus Christie, Thanks for your help in the battle with Hillary, now we turn our sites onto Your candidate John McCain.As you're very Aware, the GOP is in turmoil after having lost 3 Heavily GOP district's so far in Special election's. It's Not gonna be pretty come November for your party!

To all you Hillary supporter's, now is the time to come together as ONE for the future of America & all your Family(even the yet to be born member's).4100 Soldeirs have given their Life for what, Oil, that's what. Mccain said he did'nt want to have to fight anymore War's for OIL.He just happened to fall into the GOP's lap this year(his turn-as they do it). He has absolutely No idea what it's gonna take to move America forward, only the Corparate view. $4 a gallon gas & rising Daily, is just 1 reason to vote the GOP out. It was $1.39 when Bush took office in 2001. How's That for Leadership?

The Republican Party is for the Few, The Democratic Party is All inclusive.

Yes We Can !

Rick,Ky (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:41 AM)

The unfortunate thing is no matter what Clinton says on behalf of Obama, she was right before. He cannot carry the swing states. Her supporters that are voting for McCain are not doing so out of ander or racism. They are voting for the McCain because they believe he is who he says he is. His record supports it. The problem is that these swing Clinton supporters are not liberal staunch Democrats. They do not believe Obama is who he claims to be because his recor, his history, and his associations do not support it. Can anyone name one accomplishment in which he was a unifier, or in which he reached out to Republicans? They also do not believe he has the experience to do the job. He says he is not a typical politician, but his actions say something different. The Jeruselum issue is just another example of that. Either that or he is really uninformed. I don't know which is more frightening.

Chris, Warwick, RI (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:41 AM)

I was so impressed with Richard Clarke last night on Keith’s program.

After the Israeli conflict with Lebanon in the summer of 2006, there was a great deal of soul searching done in Israel because of their airstrikes in which civilian casualties that had taken place. I just don’t see any soul searching being done with Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld, Powell, Rice. At all.

I don’t even know if it’s enough anymore to apologize. They lied. That’s what this report said. They lied.

We need to resolve this. It cannot just run its course. Which is what the Republican Party is hoping will happen. They should be put on trial. Every one of them.

There are thousands upon thousands of deaths.

Because of lies.

Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:41 AM)

First things first, Woot Celtics and KG!

Okay, now ...
It's nice that Clinton is finally stepping aside, she had to do it, to reassure the Democrats--simply overplayed her hand. Had she lavashed Obama with praise Tuesday night, it would have been alright. Anyway, I got to thinking, what was Tuesday and Clinton's speech? Duh, it was her tiara moment. Look, I'm a guy, and I don't understand ladies' fascination with wearing a tiara and pretending to be a princess. At least for that night, in her world, Clinton was.

I just don't see how Sen. McCain is an realistic alternative to Sen. Clinton.

Nicholas: Minnesota (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:42 AM)

What does Hillary do now? She goes on an extended vacation she we can all have a break from her. She also takes the opportunity to create photo ops of her dancing with Bill in their bathing suits at Sandals.

You are really calling Loserman's "Citizens for McCain" bipartisan? Uh, NOT. Loserman is a Repub in Independent clothing because he knew he wouldn't be elected in CT as a repub and they all know he's not really a dem.

Kudos to Gibbs and Axelrod for the switcheroo. I have to admire that - the traveling press is not so easily outmaneuvered (unless they are covering the Iraq war, apparently). Although Dan's version of "breaking news" on Verdict last night was underwhelming to say the least. And don't invite that senator on their again - I can't remember her name (something Tubbs?) - but she talked over Dan the whole night. They already have Chris Matthews for that - and he does it better!

MI Chick (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:42 AM)

With regard to Bush and McCain on national security is anybody else worried about the October Surprise some are speculating that the Republicans are planning?

Anatole Kaletsky's comment about Iran in the 6/5/08 TIMES ONLINE really rattled me. If there is any truth to it whatsoever, we all need to be flooding McCain with email to denounce this as nonsense before more "invented evidence" comes out of the administration and we find ourselves in a third war.

Here's a small excerpt:

World problems for the White House
From Iran to the credit crunch, it matters to the world who will win the race in November

Anatole Kaletsky

"Such is the passion of Mr McCain's anti-Iran
rhetoric that some informed observers in Washington believe a bombing campaign against Iran could be the “October surprise” that Republican strategists are planning to swing the election in their favour if polling points to a Democrat victory. The idea would be to present the war hero McCain as the best man to lead America at a time of military danger.

Mr Obama, if he was reluctant in his support of a pre-election bombing, could be presented as a muddle-headed peacenik. And what if he denounced military
action? Mr Obama could then stand accused of insufficient patriotism or even outright treason. His campaign would then come crashing down to a McGovern-style landslide defeat. "

Margaret, Columbus, Ohio (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:43 AM)

Hillary you messed up. Obama has a very witty tongue but any person that can reject his Reverend, Church, Farrakhan, and a host of black leaders and then accept an endorsement from Sen. Byrd, KKK guy, doesn’t deserve and should not get 90% of the African American vote.

Jeff, Chicago, IL (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:43 AM)

Here we go again--the media fanning controversy where there is none. Why can't there be a fair and open discussion about Obama's position on Israel and Palestine? I didn't see any backtracking, only Obama offering further clarification on a question a reporter asked.

It's a wonder the candidates are willing to say anything. Why does the media ascribe evil intent to everything the candidates' say? Maybe Obama's position really is that Israel should remain undivided, but that it's up to the two country's leaders to hash that out?

Cindy Lou, TX (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:46 AM)

If Barak is going to select a woman, there is only one choice...Hillary.

People stayed with her because of who she is and what she represented,...not just because she was a female.

The suggestion for another woman, as has been done in this forum a number of times...is an insult to every women that supports her. And the ultimate pandering!

Futhermore, how much inexperience should there be on the Dem ticket?

lisa, NY (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:50 AM)

My primary problem with Senator Clinton is that I have no idea what she REALLY believes. What you call learning from her mistakes often has the appearance of becoming all things to all people.

It is her fundamental inability to be her authentic self that I found the most objectionable. If you can morph from establishment candidate into street fighter in 3 months, what would you change into after 4 years in the White House?

P.S. Count me in on the Obama/Biden ticket! :)

Nashville_fan (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:50 AM)

One other thing: Hillary really did set up the Republicans to make a play for her voters. Her many appearances on FOX news, her adoption of Republican tactics and her willingness to stoke the flames of sexism will make it easy for McCain to try to appeal to her voters. Never mind that McCain will, for example, send women's children to an unnecessary war and allow families to be kicked out into the streets because he will do nothing about the mortgage crisis.

This is one of the most damaging aspects of allowing Hillary to continue in the primary race. Between her allegience to "hardworking white" voters and her self-serving women's rights movement, the Democratic Party has been horribly divided.

Cindy Lou, TX (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:51 AM)

I'm with Ron. Where's the flip in that?

And from what I understand, while Obama did make a few panderesque pro-Israel comments, he also reiterated his view that the peace process needs to be renewed and that this process has to include a home for Palestinians. He said this at AIPAC! Its akin to telling a teachers' union he favored the idea of merit pay.

All politicians pander. Its not a yes/no thing - they all do. But some shade their pandering with greater shades of honesty than others. Obama seems to be one of them. McCain built a reputation for being another, back in his straight-talk days. We'll have to see if he comes back around to that.

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:52 AM)

I honestly believe you have mischaracterized Obama's statements on Isreal as "back-tracking." The interviwer was asking for clarification and that is what Obama did. Every president has recognized the need for the two sides o fthis conflict to negotiate.

Colleen, Ithaca NY (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:54 AM)

When he was talking about Jerusalem I believe he was referring to the ability for others to freely visit it and worship in it among other things since it's so important to many people, not just the Jewish people. That is what would have to be negotiated. He wasn't saying that it should be divided or even going back on his statement that it shouldn't be.

To: Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, and Domenico Montanaro.

All three of you need to work on your listening skills and comprehension so you don't go around spreading disinformation and trying to start trouble where there isn't any. Stop trying to sell the narrative you want and focus on what is accurate.

Orlando, Albrightsville, PA (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:55 AM)

The primaries are over but the fighting continues....

Keep it up Libs......
Just what we need to keep the White House Republican in 2008.....

jerry/corpus christi texas (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:55 AM)

Hmmmmm, could not the term "undivided" be referring to the fact that all parties would honor, respect and share the city of Jerusalem as opposed to one side claiming it? (Of course, I'm not up on my Israeli-Palestenian conflict lingo, so what do I know?)

In any case, Obama's AIPAC statements did result in Hamas un-endorsing him, so all in all, I'd say he came out ahead! :)

Obama '08/'12

Nashville_fan (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 9:58 AM)

I see all of the Obama fans continue to fuel the fire and tear hillary apart. In the end when Obama does finally lose the election, he will owe it to his own supporters who continued the division in the democratic party by their non stop assults on the Clintons. Please fuel your engery towards the mess the GOP has left this nation in and get over the clintons.

RGO, California (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:01 AM)

Whats next for Hillery? PAUL vs CLINTON, which is why during the Rev Wright issue the Super delegates continued to move towards Obama. They did so even though the media dropped the ball and never reported a word about PAUL vs CLINTON

Jim (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:02 AM)

Jeff in Chicago, your ignorance is glitteringly spectacular. If Senator Robert Byrd, third in line to the Presidency, FORMER KKK member, can completely turn his political life around by endorsing a white man with a black father for POTUS with no regret or qualifications, then your America is quite different from mine.

laughaday (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:04 AM)

Cedric, Columbia, MD, I completely agree with you and thank you for laying out so plainly why disillusioned Clinton supporters just cannot vote for Sen. McCain.

My TN primary vote was for John Edwards (unfortunately he dropped out of the race the next day) and since then I have been a staunch Obama supporter. I see unlimited potential for his vision and leadership. I know that Clinton supporters feel the same way about her. We all tend to invest our hopes and dreams in our candidate, hoping they will have the answers to all of our intractible problems, and along the way make us feel a little better about ourselves, and feel like we are "winners."

When that investment of emotion comes to an abrupt end, it is natural to lash out at what stopped the dream. In this case, Sen. Obama.

However, if you truly think about what Sen. Clinton stands for - beyond striving to be the first woman president - it is EMPOWERMENT.

Instead of being so disappointed that you would vote against your own interests, follow Sen. Clinton's lead and work and strive to empower yourselves. No one has worked harder or had so much baggage to overcome than Sen. Clinton. Focusing on your own empowerment will free you to not be so dependent on the success or failure of others.

This comes from a 50-year-old Caucasian Southern woman who just graduated college with a BSN degree last month, and although I didn't vote for Sen. Clinton, I feel I am living by her highest ideals.

You can, too. Don't be afraid. Think about it.

Obama '08

Gail, TN (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:05 AM)

"*** Pander alert: ... -- telling AIPAC that the city must remain “undivided” and then backtracking yesterday by saying to CNN's Candy Crowley that the city should be up to negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians"
------------------------------------------------

There's nothing contradictory about that. There obviously needs to be negotiations on the Jerusalem whether it's divided or not because it's a holy city to both Jews and Muslims. But as usual, you go after Obama while you let Flipper McFlop's perpetual lies, gaffes, and blunders go unnoticed.

McCain's most recent "misstatement" was his assertion that he always backed Congressional investigations into the causes of government failures to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina when in reality he voted to block several such investigations. He was either telling a flat-out lie or he is senile.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/06/04/mccains-day-marked-by-fal_n_105283.html

And more to the point of pandering: Flipper McFlop has just now flip-flopped on Bush's illegal wire-tapping, which he now supports.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/06/06/mccain-supports-bushs-war_n_105610.html

As you can tell from the links, both of these stories that you have ignored were in the HuffingtonPost, as was the story about McCain's connection to Watergate felon G. Gordon Liddy, which you also ignored. It's interesting that the only HuffingtonPost story the corporate media has picked up recently was Obama's "bitter" statement, which you goofballs ludicrously promoted as a big scandal. You're not too proud to use "left-wing" sources as long as they can be used to promote your agenda.

It's obvious your out to trash Obama while you cover up for McCain. That's the kind of media behavior that helped give us 8 years of the abominable G. W. Bush, and it's the kind of behavior that is likely to give us another 4 years of G. W. Bush clone John McCain.

Houston (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:09 AM)

What's next for Hillary, who cares. We have just gone into the GE and all you hear and see on the news is Hillary. CNN and MSNBC. The only channel left is FOX and I hate their reporting. Now I'm not saying that she isn't news worthy but at long as the media keeps her as headline news she'll keep up with the drama. The news media needs to do like the Dem leaders. Move forward.

Debbie,Ewing,NJ (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:10 AM)

What is next for Hillary is to start campaigning for 2012 because Obama will lose big time in Nov.

The Truth Hurts a lot (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:11 AM)

Senator John McCain is the only Republican who promises to end the George Bush style of governing from and on behalf of a small, angry fringe. With a record of working across the aisle to develop sound bipartisan legislation, he would offer a choice to a broader range of Americans than the rest of the Republican field.

We have shuddered at Mr. McCain’s occasional, tactical pander to the right because he has demonstrated that he has the character to stand on principle. He was an early advocate for battling global warming and risked his presidential bid to uphold fundamental American values in the immigration debate. A genuine war hero among Republicans who proclaim their zeal to be commander in chief, Mr. McCain argues passionately that a country’s treatment of prisoners in the worst of times says a great deal about its character.

Mr. McCain was one of the first prominent Republicans to point out how badly the war in Iraq was being managed. We wish he could now see as clearly past the temporary victories produced by Mr. Bush’s unsustainable escalation, which have not led to any change in Iraq’s murderous political calculus. At the least, he owes Americans a real idea of how he would win this war, which he says he can do. We disagree on issues like reproductive rights and gay marriage.

In 2006, however, Mr. McCain stood up for the humane treatment of prisoners and for a ban on torture. We said then that he was being conned by Mr. Bush, who had no intention of following the rules. But Mr. McCain took a stand, just as he did in recognizing the threat of global warming early. He has been a staunch advocate of campaign finance reform, working with Senator Russ Feingold, among the most liberal of Democrats, on groundbreaking legislation, just as he worked with Senator Edward Kennedy on immigration reform.

Senator McCain is clearly the best choice for this great nation.

Vote for security.
Vote for fiscal restraint.
Vote for experience.
Vote for bipartisanship.
Vote for John McCain.

The Truth (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:11 AM)

I am and will continue to be astounded by Obamas nomination. I have been following both the democrat and republican campaigns and cannot believe how much has been ignored by both the media and Obama followers. I cannot believe this man has lost so many states by such big margins and the democrats actually believe he will win in Nov. What the heck am i missing here? Obama is going to re-write the electoral map-are they serious? Many of the states he won in have been red for decades and Obama is going to change all of that? how? by turning water into wine. The caucus states don't reflect the electorate. What are the democrats thinking. Speeches in front of huge crowds don't translate into votes-we know that.

Hillary Democrat (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:11 AM)

It's a shame that Hillary is dropping out; because as we have seen with this campaign, Obama lost steam due to his inability to really explain and be held to his positions on all kinds of topics. The Rev Wright and Trinity showed him to be indecisive and inexperienced in handling issues. He would get eaten alive if he went to Washington and we as a nation would be far worse off then now. (If you can believe that could happen). The only issue in this campaign is that Obama is too inexperienced. Period. Hillary dropping out gives a big boost to McCain and I now believe McCain will win in November. I never thought in a million years that the Democrats could give away a no brainer election, but they just did.

Sad for America.

David Diltz (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:12 AM)

I hope MSNBC actually covers the subject of the Charlie Savage NYT piece on air instead of just placing a small blurb about it on their website. This is a very important story that the American people need to hear about. In addition to flip flopping on this issue, according to the Savage piece, McCain's most recent statement puts McCain in sync with Bush's view that it's ok to illegally spy on Americans. Because Senator Obama holds the opposite opinion this issue gives Americans a clear view about the differences between these two candidates. It would be journalistic malpractice not to cover it.

pmorlan, Louisville, KY (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:12 AM)

We will vote for a "3rd Bush term" with McCain before we would ever vote for a black Anti-American.

Al Gore, please come to the rescue! Save our party from what it's about to do. This is a sad, sad day for America.

Reagan/Clinton/McCain Democrats (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:12 AM)

I wonder when the holier than thou crowd on the right will denounce mccain for dumping his first wife who was a cripple and stuck by him while he was a POW for the younger, prettier and richer cindy lou?

When will the true conservatives denouce him for pushing more voodoo economics on us....neither reagan, bush 1 or 2 balanced a budget or reduced the debt with their magic money economics..

when will the military establishment stop being conned and cowed by a bunch of chickenhawks who lie us into war?

Rick, NC (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:13 AM)

Hopefully the Clinton machine will pay it's many creditors along the trail instead of leaving them to hold the bag.

With any luck, Obama told the Clinton's where to go and stick it. We do not want nor need the Clintons in the White House.

La'Dene, Oceanside, Ca (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:15 AM)

cedric, columbia md (9:31 am) very wise, well put and worthy post...

teopa (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:18 AM)

"Obama is down in Chicago"

-First Read

Good for him and Michelle, they deserve a bit of a break!

**************

This is really the story of the Good, the Bad and The Ugly (McCain. The Obama Trauma. and Michelle Obama.)
Full Moon (Sent Thursday, June 05, 2008 9:43 AM)

**************

Full Moon,

I must respond to your ridiculous observation, of whom I hope will be our next First Lady, Michelle Obama..

By no stretch of a reasonable beholder's opinion, is Mrs. Obama ugly. She is lovely, and ever moreso because Barack cleary loves her very much.

You are behind by 40 years. The days, of the exclusivity of the Breck Girl beauty standard, are dead, and buried, never to return.

She is not repressed, like many former First Ladies, who were largely kept silent - seen, but not heard. As an American that should believe in our freedoms, you should be pleased about that.

Lastly, she is not a panderer, I‘m proud to say.. She has a brilliant mind, and speaks it. She is bound to make a gaffe here, or there, just like the rest of us. I love the fact that she is not afraid. I love her for being herself. She will not let herself, or her daughters, be molded into some faux image, that haters like you demand. You would not accept it from her if she did.

You are hell bent on hate. What you don't realize is that, just like Barack, the Whitehouse will forever be changed for the better, for Michelle having graced it with her lovely, and accomplished presence.

donna (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:19 AM)

Cedric, Columbia, MD (regarding HRC supporters voting for McCain)

Please do not allow disappointment to prevail. The choices he makes will be burdened on our children and grand-children. Will we tell them that the reason women’s rights have been set back a decade is because we were angry at the results of the primary season? Will we tell our children that their civil liberties have been exchanged for spite and mistrust? Throughout this season young people have come out in droves to support a hopeful future. It is not because they are naive; it is just that we taught them that hard work can achieve anything.

Very well said. I agree.

proud american, Sacramento, CA (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:20 AM)

I have a Bill Clinton happen. Before Hillary officially lost, he took off back to Harlem to work on his charity again, leaving her in her mansion. It kind of brings forth his agenda during the campaign, if not to support her (now that she needs it most). I don't claim to know relationships, but that doesn't sound like any fist bump.

Nicholas: Minnesota (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:21 AM)

As for Hillary I don't think Obama will ask her to be VP. Although he is a prime example of political hubris Obama knows that having Hillary around has more downside than up. Imagine her hanging around the White House sulking and yes even trying to sabotage Obama ? How about Bill ? At this stage of his life can we even guess what he is capable of dragging in the front door ? No, Obama dances around her as VP. And what if Hillary does not become VP candidate? She will wait around until after the general election. If Obama wins she resigns her Senate seat soon thereafter because lets face it she never really wanted to be a Senator, her sights were always aimed higher. If he loses she sticks around 4 more years and hopes that McCain has either become too frail or has a bad first term. As for Obama if he loses he will fade away and become another historical footnote.

Paul (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:22 AM)

I was pleased to last night that the 2 senators were having a private meeting. Hopefully, they were able to talk about the future of the country. I applaud Senator Clinton for doing what's best for the democratic party.

FOR THE OBAMA SUPPORTERS PLEASE FOLLOW HIS LEAD AND TAKE A BREAK AND LET WOUNDS HEAL. HE HAS BEEN VERY GRACIOUS THROUGHOUT THIS PROCESS AND I BELIEVE THAT SENATOR CLINTON AND HER SUPPORTER SHOULD BE TREATED WITH RESPECT AS WELL. I, AS AN AVID OBAMA SUPPORTER WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND AN OLIVE BRANCH TO HER SUPPORTERS.

Michelle, Baltimore (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:23 AM)

All politicians pander. Its not a yes/no thing - they all do. But some shade their pandering with greater shades of honesty than others. Obama seems to be one of them
**********8
Paul Miller, ROTFLMAO. So after ALL these months of hearing BO is "different", he's not a "politician", now it's okay that he panders and can give us "shades of honesty." How hypocritical! The man is naive. He gives a great speech but you just don't know what's going to happen when he speaks "off the cuff." In less than two days as the "presumptive" nominee, he's already caused an issue in the mideast and now you all want to say "that's not what he meant." Go tell the Palestinians what he meant. I'm sure they'll sit right down with you and forgive the Messiah.

think (Sent Friday, June 06, 2008 10:26 AM)

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