Obama wins CNN focus group

John Doe — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:37:04 GMT

Seriously? What about the end of the same segment where the same polling method had Clinton and Richardson at the top?

Obama wins CNN focus group

Yiannis, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:39:36 GMT

Obama realizes that with a strong showing in Iowa and a victory in NH he'll be in a strong position.

His campaign started pushing for NH with his government reform.

Even Dean following the scream chatter did very well in NH as an outsider.

I bet that a major Implosion aside, Obama wins NH.

Obama wins CNN focus group

George Grahame, Brunswick, Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:40:40 GMT

Definitely unscientific and style over substance.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Joe, DC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:48:19 GMT

Yeah. Clinton and Richardson beat Obama in the other focus group in Nevada. You call this reporting?

Obama wins CNN focus group

Yiannis, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:53:03 GMT

wow Anderson Cooper's show gave a total of all the focus groups answers of who won the debate:

Obama: 33
Biden/Edwards: 18
Clinton: 8

Obama wins CNN focus group

ST — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:53:59 GMT

John Edwards had the most favorable response of the night.

He hit a 90 with the instant viewer reaction on the health care question.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Dee of VA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:56:02 GMT

John,

That was a focus group in Nevada.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Joy Gilmore, Honey Grove, Texas — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:57:27 GMT

Obama was allowed to answer a disproportionate number of questions, given more time, and allowed to go off topic. These results don't surprise me at all. The media has been anti-Hillary all along. This format allowed the media to actually have more control...There was no order of questioning or answering... Seemed like after every video question, Anderson was asking Obama for an answer...I see through you CNN..and hope the next Democratic Debate is on MSNBC.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Joy Gilmore, Honey Grove, Texas — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:57:27 GMT

Obama wins CNN focus group

Fred, Washington, DC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:57:36 GMT

Well Obama was the clear winner in New Hampshire while Clinton was fourth and Obama was right behind Clinton and Richardson (who tied) in Nevada. So I think if you average the two out there is a consensus that pre-debate Hillary was predicted as winner, but post-debate.....she lost. This is the truth. I think Hillary has alot of great qualities but she got outclassed on the Pentagon rebuttal by Obama and just how she dodged answering certain questions with insults of the Bush Administration, instead of her own answer without pointing the finger.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Mark — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:59:21 GMT

YouTube Debate Won By Obama Early
An unscientific Drudge poll showed 2008 US Presidential candidate Barack Obama way ahead of all other Democratic candidates following the much anticipated YouTube event shown Monday night on CNN. Obama received 37% of the overall vote early on. Hillary Clinton performed second best with 15% of the overall vote. John Edwards was among the lowest vote-getters with 5% of the vote count.

Joe Biden and Dennis Kucinich were not trailing far behind Clinton.

Democratic presidential candidates faced questions directly from voters on Monday in the first CNN/YouTube debate.

Voters raised the issues of gay marriage, how to end the war in Iraq, how to better education and whether race was an issue in the response to Hurricane Katrina in the form of videos they shot of themselves and posted on YouTube.

The videos came in all forms -- people facing the camera straight-on, people in makeup, people with flashcards. And a talking snowman.

Oddsmakers at Sportsbook.com had Clinton a 2 to 1 favorite to become the next US President Barack Obama was listed with 7 to 2 odds.

"I really thought he (Obama) represented the best hope for change," said one American voter who watched the YouTube CNN debate.

Biden 12% 487

Clinton 15% 602

Dodd 5% 190

Edwards 5% 186

Gravel 8% 327

Kucinich 10% 420

Obama 37% 1,497

Richardson 9% 369

Total Votes: 4,078
---

Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com

Originally published July 23, 2007 9:55 pm ET

As the result by Gambling911.com shows, I think Obama clearly had appeared to be most honest with his answers.

Hillary perhaps in my opinion was the worst. Everybody at least had something good to say about one another but Hillary never had one thing good to say about Obama. Iran is about to make a nuclear weapon. The old politics of the 20th Century says stay in Washington and act big. The world has dramatically changed. Those primitive arabs who were throwing sticks and stones in the early eighties are now making serious weapons. Hillary telling America that she sent her daughter to private school in Washington because she was advised to do so because of media attention. How does she think Americans are that stupid?

Obama wins CNN focus group

diane — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:01:14 GMT

the people have spoken! those who vote

Obama wins CNN focus group

JIrby, Colorado — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:03:46 GMT

Fighting lobbyists, I like that. Also, why don't we just call them bribesters? Lobbyist has the connotation of business as usual, along with the tacit understanding that it is legitimate. Hillary is the establishment candidate here, so she will have the corporations rooting for her. Maybe that won't be enough this time.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Whats important ? — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:07:06 GMT

Clinton wins election.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Aidyn, NY,NY — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:08:37 GMT

That whack! Clinton obviously outshine him tonight~

Obama wins CNN focus group

Bobby - Raleigh, NC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:13:56 GMT

Sen Obama did an excellent job in the debate. Very natural and eloquently stated his views. Hillary was her typical over-rehearsed self and really didn't add anything special.

Obama wins CNN focus group

PFC J.L. Andreasson, Fort Riley — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:14:16 GMT

Absolutely Senator Obama won tonight! He was focused, clear, and incredibly thorough with each and every question.

I honestly feel that Governor Richardson came in a strong second to Senator Obama. Sadly, CNN chose not to ask the governor as many question as the so-called "top tier" candidates.

The media was quick to crown Senator Clinton as the winner. Yet when you take a look at the polls from the focus groups and from John Q. Public, once again, we are telling the media that THEY ARE WRONG.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Ross, Reno, Nevada — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:17:13 GMT

That was the Nevada focus group. In Nevada - Clinton and Richardson tied for 1st in CNN's focus group. MSNBC just doesn't like reporting Nevada political news.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Sincerely Insinsere, Madison, WI — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:17:21 GMT

Come on, now...was it the cockroach, the body louse, or the earwig who had the best line of the night? Generally speaking, all these clowns tonight appear more as pathetic adolescents seeking a last chance position in some podunk high school prom court. Surely the rest of the world is smiling a sardonic grin. Great way to instill awe and respect for our Nation??? Better yet, call Baraboo, Wisconsin to see if Barnum and Bailey needs full-time idiots in big yellow shoes filling part-time jobs cleaning up after the animals.

Obama wins CNN focus group

the other John Doe — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:18:21 GMT

John Doe,
Richardson and Clinton did well in Nevada. Obama won according to voters in New Hampshire and according to this voter in Tennessee.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Shadow, Hamden,CT — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:34:22 GMT

John Doe - The Nevada focus group had Clinton and Richardson tied for first, followed by Obama in second. The New Hampshire focus group is the poll being discussed here, where Obama won with 33%, and Clinton came in fourth with 8%. Obama also won a third CNN focus group as well as a Fox News focus group; it appears he is winning the majority of these post-debate polls.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Tim, Las Vegas, Nevada — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:40:10 GMT

John - That was the Nevada focus group.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Priscilla Smeed, Claremont, NH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:40:26 GMT

Well you know, I think a focus group in NH is more important. Especially as they had a lot of independents there. Iowa is one thing, but I think Obama is a perfect fit for NH, with all the independents who can vote in the primaries. Next comes SC... game, set, match, Obama!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Alex, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:41:18 GMT

The polls are a bunch of BS. The Clintons have connections at these companies and they are pumping up her numbers. Every Democrat I know wants Obama as the nominee yet she's somehow up in the polls....

Obama wins CNN focus group

Markus Cole — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 03:47:02 GMT

I don't know why people don't see how unelectable Hillary Clinton is. She is a powerful force on the democrat side but to win the general election you need to be a force on all sides. Barack has it!

Obama wins CNN focus group

David Guilbault, Seattle, WA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:53 GMT

All of this live, instantaneous commenting, reacting, judging, attacking, defending, parsing, sniping and analyzing is what is wrong with public and political discourse in these times. Thoughtful, considered opinions are the rarity. How about we all listen carefully to the candidates, watch their speeches, read their positions, study their backgrounds, consider their policies, understand their motivations, recognize their attributes and THEN offer our supporting or opposing judgments?

Obama wins CNN focus group

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:57 GMT

I thought Obama had another lackluster performance, while Hillary Clinton showed that no question phases her. Even though I don't think she is nearly liberal/progressive enough, I can't deny she's the most skillful and informed speaker of the bunch. Her answer about the 28 years of Clinton/Bush rule was priceless.

Joe Biden and John Edwards also had strong performances, and Biden's passionate comments about Darfur was the highlight of the night. I think if I had been asked to vote immediately after this debate, I would have gone with Biden simply because of this answer.

My question is: are the Democrats getting war fatigue? I felt the candidates in this debate showed very little substance and passion when discussing Iraq.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Stew — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:09:50 GMT

Simply, these debates are a sharade! Mary Snow said there are 24! people she was speaking to! My God! Well, quite a statement in regard to the popularity of these events. If 2,400 people showed up, I'd be impressed, but still not convinced that the opinion of that few no. of people would represent even the smallest of factions of our Nation. But that is the beauty of our Nation...we don't all think alike, and we're not likely to change our views based upon what only a few people would say.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Bruce Altman — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:15:15 GMT

I think there's a ringer in the wash, John Doe.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Scott — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:21:09 GMT

This article is discussing the New Hampshire focus group. The poll you are referring to - which was mentioned moments later - was a focus group in Nevada. Regardless, both were an extremely small sample which were by no means scientific indicators.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Greg Adams, Ft Collins, CO — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:21:30 GMT

What are you talking about? The important part of this article is that Obama is making it a platform plank to reform the lobbying of our the government. No one else is stepping up and trying to better our government by correcting that most fundamental and vital flaw. Spend less time talking nonsense about the ratings and get to something important.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Michael, Des Moines, Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:23:45 GMT

First Obama come-back was when he said this to Mike Gravel who tried a jab:
"And the bundlers -- the reason you know who is raising money for me, Mike, is because I have pushed through a law this past session to disclose that.
And that's the kind of leadership that I've shown in the Senate. That's the kind of leadership that I showed when I was a state legislator. And that's the kind of leadership that I'll show as president of the United States"

In a desperate attempt to distinguish herself from Obama, Hillary shot herself in the foot by saying she doesn't want to meet foreign leaders because she's concerned about being used for propaganda.

Nancy Pelosi didn't have a problem with being used for propaganda when she went to Syria. She just did the right thing. Hillary should've exercised this caution before voting to authorize the Iraq war, killing more Americans than 9/11.

Obama also questioned Hillary's judgment when he said it was terrific that Hillary was asking the Pentagon how we were going to get out of Iraq, but that those questions should've been asked before we went into Iraq. In order words, Obama is saying four things to Hillary:
"Don't authorize the war and then start fighting to stop it"
"Don't get us into a war without figuring out how we're going to get out"
"Quit making a mess and then trying to clean it up"
"Don't act stupid and then think later"

Obama wins CNN focus group

Don Jr., Melbourne, FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:26:35 GMT

Well I watched the whole debate and I though that Hillary actually came out as the biggest show stopper. She answered many of the questions directly, but still managed to put her own thoughts in on related topics. I thought the most striking thing about her responses is that she appeared to show more emotion and genuine care about the issues than she normally does which I think the voters have been waiting to see from her. I think the candidates who did the best were the ones able to quickly adapt to the everyday atmosphere of the questions and answer them in creative, complete, and spotlight 'youtube-esque' ways. These would include Hillary, Biden, and Edwards. I think Obama had a few good moments, but all in all his talk seems to be getting too repetitive. He is always saying the same thing and I think in the setting of this debate it was necessary to show off some new responses and emotions that truely responded to these amazing questions.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Neil Sinhababu, Austin TX — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:26:40 GMT

The folks at Daily Kos seem to regard Edwards' anti-triangulation statement as the best moment of the debate. They've pushed it to second place on the recommended diaries list, way higher than any other debate-related diary has gotten:

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/7/23/225651/723

Obama wins CNN focus group

Anyone, AnyCity, AnyState — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:26:43 GMT

There is no way that a black Muslim can be president. Period.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Marcus Woods, Hope Mills, NC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:28:55 GMT

Just because your last name is Clinton, doesn't mean your going to win it all, Hillary

Obama wins CNN focus group

Kathy Rosenberg, West Linn, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:38:09 GMT

this is scary. Obama is hiding the fact that he is Muslim..we, US, should look at this connection

Obama wins CNN focus group

Jane Doe, Iowa City, Iowa — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:43:15 GMT

Polls are not reliable right now; regardless if they are focus group reactions after watching a debate or simply opinion polls carried out in the early states. With that said, it's not surprising that the focus group liked what Obama said in tonight's debate. As more debates unfold and the Iowa Caucuses get closer, more people will understand, appreciate, and then eventually support Obama's message(s) of hope. He's the only one who can change politics as we know it in this country. Hillary can remain in the lead in the polls....for now. However, the tides will soon be turning.

JJ

Obama wins CNN focus group

Isaias, Orlando FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:44:29 GMT

Far away Mrs Clinton show why she will be the next President.
Mr Obama, needs to learn more.
The Republican Party is pushing for Obama, because they know, they going to lose the election easily if Mrs. Clinton wins the primary.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Jim Sweeney, Albuquerque, NM — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:48:32 GMT

Senator Clinton was clearly the winner in this ddebate. Her exceptional knowlege on all major topics was clealy articulated. She was poised and confident in all her answers. Her experience is clealy evident and she has a good command of the issues related to health care, the Iraq war, economic matters and national security. The clear winner.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Ryan, — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:07:46 GMT

I easily thought OBAMA was the best... Clinton doesnt seem like a leader she seems fake ... OBAMA!!!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Anthony, Nairobi,Kenya — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:07:55 GMT

If American need realy change with good internatianl relationship the man to do it is Barack Obama.

The bad relationship the American have with country like Cuba will long be gone. American you need a person like Obama to do that Ithink he believe in winning people over rather than forcing people to follow your(American)way.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Claud Ingram, Eugene, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:16:01 GMT

Who cares about the focus group. Its the voters that will decide whose program is best for the country.

Joe Shyster

Obama wins CNN focus group

Steve, Temple City, CA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:32:56 GMT

They were all excellent, even those I disagree with.

Virtually every one of them would make a superb President (except Kucinich whose liberal views, I believe, are often naive).

But Joe Biden won. His honesty, experience and sound reasoning are both refreshing in light of the idiot jerk who currently holds the nation's top job, and BADLY needed.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Andre Williams, Mobile, Alabama — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:34:05 GMT

That "same polling method" was in Nevada, not Manchester, Hampshire like the one addressed above. Obama led New Hampshire, and Clinton/Richardson led Nevada, with Obama coming in third.

Obama wins CNN focus group

David Ingram — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:34:50 GMT

I think Clinton made the most knowledgable comments.
And, she went far enough to explain her comments so that everyone knew exactly what message she was giving to the voting public.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Sam Elowitch — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 05:48:46 GMT

The only people whose opinions should matter in a Democratic debate are those of Democrats, since only they vote in the primary.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Steve — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 06:32:44 GMT

Obama wins CNN focus group

Kimberly, Del Mar — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 06:47:32 GMT

Hillary won. Next question.

Obama wins CNN focus group

The Cycling Dude — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 06:48:22 GMT

Will we ever know more about the questions CNN were not worthy of being asked the candidates?

Especially the ones for Clinton, and Obama?

I imagine there wre some good, legitimate, ones in the bunch, that deserved to be asked, even if they were not answered.

Obama wins CNN focus group

John Doe II — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:02:45 GMT

Sorry! I just don't buy it. The polling numbers don't support it. Similar polling numbers had it Clinton, Richardson, then Edwards; Obama was a distant fourth.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Mary, Seattle — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:03:11 GMT

Obama wins over at Fox. Fox News has a video of their S.C. focus group, the majority are leaving as new Obama supporters!

Obama campaign video showed scene after scene of hugh crowds ... he's a widely popular president in the making!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Charlie Swanson, Mississippi State, Miss. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:04:11 GMT

That's crap! Biden easily won that debate. He is the only clear thinking, rational candidate with suitable and real solutions.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Steve Norrs, Tucson, AZ — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:18:46 GMT

Biden won the debate hands down. If Democrats don't nominate Biden they are crazy.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Jack Mixell , Garner North Carolina — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:20:55 GMT

Really now! I've seen posts tonight that say Byden and Edwards were charismatic, and at times very specific when asked a pointed question. But I must say that the whole "debate" lacked any real excitement. I did enjoy Kucinich repeating his text address several times tonight. Since this is the only forum to voice an opinion... in my opinion, neither Todd or Murry did a very good job of covering for NBC !

Obama wins CNN focus group

stan — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:44:16 GMT

Also Obama wins Fox focus group....clearly he is the winer of the debate

Obama wins CNN focus group

Richard — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 07:48:20 GMT

I seriously thought Clinton crushed them all. She's the only mature adult in the group. The rest of them just want to be President, she actually could be.

Obama wins CNN focus group

greg, Portland, OR — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:14:18 GMT

Obama wins, according to whom? I haven't read anything showing Obama as the winner. All reports pointed to Clinton in this particular debate.

Please provide sources, and please do not post incorrect information on the CNN Website's front page.

...c'mon guys. This is why people distrust the media so much. Don't pull a "Fox News" on us.

Obama wins CNN focus group

RIP — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 08:57:16 GMT

Joe Biden struck me as the most qualified and came across as the only one that had somewhat of a 'realistic'head on his shoulders. While they're all politicians he at least came across with some pretty direct, although, not necessarily politically correct, answers. Richardson was a pretty close second. I couldn't figure out what in the heck Hillary stood for..........pretty much a 'voice for all seasons'!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Michelle from Yougstown, Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:04:21 GMT

Only the Lord knows who will win. Meanwhile, I'll keep The Honorable U.S. Senator BARACK OBAMA in my prayers.

Obama wins CNN focus group

m schultz — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:10:10 GMT

I beleave Barrak was the winner. He had clear quick awnsers ann handled himself very presidential.The fact that he is young an sees america ina futureistic way.Ive read his book and see a real compasinate person.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Steven Farris, Akron Ohio — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:32:40 GMT

I am very confused. You have a focus group to determine the outcome of a debate and the evaluation methodology is unscientific? By which metrics did this group assess the candidates? Is seems like an oxymoron in validity to me.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Eric, Denver — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:34:38 GMT

Don't believe it? Check out the focus group by Frank Luntz - pretty convincing stuff in favor of Obama. (http://www.foxnews.com/video2/player06.html?072307/072307_hc_luntz&Hannity_Colmes&S.C.%20Debate%21&acc&Politics&-1&News&382&&&new)

Obama wins CNN focus group

Bob Bandy, Carterville, Illinois — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:45:49 GMT

If I'm Clinton or Obama, I wine and dine Richardson for VP. The one who does is a winner.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Ralph Beavers — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 09:46:00 GMT

According to the Bible and this is the book that the Good Ole America was founded upon Please read 1st Timothy 2nd chapter 12th verse But I suffer to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.I would also like to add do we need another GAFTA or NAFTA like Slick Willy ( BIll Clinton) gave us. We can all see the end results from that.Rat poison in the cat food, anti-freez in the tooth paste,tainted foods that cause Ecoli outbreaks and no jobs for the American worker.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Larry Gramovot — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:11:06 GMT

The fundamental problem, I think, is that the more we Americans listen to Hillary Clinton the more we see a divisive, arrogant individual who accepts no responsibility for her own conduct or the conduct of her party. We hear her blame all of life's ills on the republican party - when we all know that both parties have been the problem. Obama seems to recognize that the democratic party has also let this country down, and provided only rhetoric when leadership was needed. As time goes on I suspect we as a nation will see ever more clearly what Hillary Clinton really is, and that should improve Obama's standing. The focus group was right.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Paul Hickman, Tulsa, Oklahoma — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:12:23 GMT

Good for Obama!! He is sticking to the "pace card", and not the "race card"

Obama wins CNN focus group

Joan Altabe, Sarasota, FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:43:20 GMT

Obama sounded scarily naive when he said he'd meet with any enemy any time. Hillary showed the more dimensional view when she cautioned that a U.S. president shouldn't be used for propaganda purposes, that a foundation for talks needed to be established first.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Maria Morales, Orlando FL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:48:26 GMT

Strongly disagree. The answer Sen. Clinton gave on the Irak issues and withdrawing our troops was very clear and organized.As usual she looked very secured knowing her business.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Tommy Ates, Austin, RX — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 10:57:36 GMT

That poll was of NEVADA voters where Clinton and Richardson had 6 voters, while Obama had 5.

But, the one that counted was the New Hampshire group (which he won). Fox News audience group in South Carolina also overwhelming chose Obama, converting mainly Clinton-leaning voters.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Chris Bojanowski, Lemont, IL — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:00:11 GMT

I was happy to hear that Joe Biden is finally connecting with at least some Democrats. Can anyone deny that he is the best qualified, most-experienced,to say nothing of being the most straight-talking (well, with the exception of Dennis Kucinich!)of all the candidates, Democrats and Republicans?!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Rachelle St Clair — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:20:05 GMT

Richardson and Clinton won in the Nevada focus group.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Bill, Herndon, VA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:21:38 GMT

The difference is, and I think the public is starting to see this more clearly, is that Clinton is pre-packaged and rehearsed, whereas Obama is thoughtful and thinks on his feet to answer the questions. That's what we are missing, someone pragmatic and listens to the people.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Deb, Weatherford TX — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:21:55 GMT

The point is, folks are hungry for....and want Obama and all he stands for. HRC is like bad tasting medicine....it may be effective but it's like a bitter pill going down and you hate every minute of it. HRC can and does look and act unseemly when she is pushed on issues. It's all of our jobs who care about and support Senator Obama's candidacy to keep the pressure high on HRC so her true colors (and they're not pretty) show through. Then America will know what's the real choice is.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Curtis, Manchester, New Hampshire — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:31:23 GMT

Why is this even a story? My "focus group" (the 5 people in my living room last night) thought Biden and Richardson did real well. Where's that headline?

Obama wins CNN focus group

charlie mancuso, Boynton Beach, Florida — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:36:21 GMT

Here is my dose of truth "I watched the same program, and it is my opinion that Hillary Clinton came out on top". The others played catch Hillary in terms of everything they spoke about!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Dyinglikeflies — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:52:23 GMT

So much spin, so little light. Obama gave an "eastern Europe Is Free Under a Ford Administration" answer in saying he would be happy to meet Castro, Chavez and Ahmanutjob with no questions asked. Who among rational voters would want a president who sees things that way (I didn't say Jimmy Carter, I said "rational" voters). Obama was OK until then, but he showed he is clearly not ready for prime time.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Ethel — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:55:48 GMT

I am glad the focus groups were unbias. I am tired of the media pushing Hillary down our throats. We have had enough with the media pushing people. It turns us off from debates

Obama wins CNN focus group

Mark J. Charlotte, NC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 11:58:24 GMT

The face of the american presidency has been a white male, which is reasonably so, with 239 million white americans in the US as of today. Outside of the US there are many cultural and races and ethnic groups. Barack Obama's position as president would allow for the world to see a new diversity in the United States. He becoming president is about a new look on the face of the United States and offering a president with diversity of his background allows other countries to see that the US is not onesided in race and that we are capable of change. Baracks diversity would have profound impact on the world.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Lynn Wilkerson,Bartlesville,Ok — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:01:56 GMT

Obama I think won last ninght debeat I think he edage out Sen.Clinton I think Sen.Clinton. was a littel flate then what she was in the frist two Dbeat.I think after last nhght Debate.The race for the dems non becomes a dead heat race.I give Sen. Clinton a b- and I give Sen. Obama a b+,it seem too me that Sen. Clinton looking for the better anscer and She look worred that if she din not give a better anscer the Sen.Obama anscers.becouse it look like to me that if she did not give a better anscers the Sen.Obama anscers then you would not be saying today that she was on top of her game.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Amy, St. Marys, PA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:06:53 GMT

In all honesty, the part of the debate which I saw was clearly omitting Sen. Clinton from it. They were asking everyone else the questions and not her, especially Sen. Obama. He had almost every question poised to him. If they want to do a poll and a debate it should be done when everyone is given the same amount of questions and time.

Obama wins CNN focus group

ed del viscovo, flanders,nj — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:06:55 GMT

That was not a debate. It was a question and answer show with no tough response questions from the moderator. Were's Barbara Walters!!!!!

Obama wins CNN focus group

:-) — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:45:27 GMT

You're all wrong. Republicans won

Obama wins CNN focus group

Barbara Johnson — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:56:02 GMT

What is the problem here a very small focus group decided who won the non-debate, I find that if of very little importance in the larger view. I think everyone should sit back and take that into consideration.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Hairy Plotter — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:57:53 GMT

So is CNN now running YOMAMAS campaign? Sad show if this is all the Democratic Party can offer.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Rationally Concerned, Heartland, USA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:23:48 GMT

Can you imagine any of these hoots standing toe-to-toe and mind vs. mind with Putin, Jong, et alia? If so, NYC, Boston, Miami, and S.F./L.A. will be our metaphoric Normandy's.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Union Baby, Tennessee — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:29:45 GMT

Sam Elowitch: If only your statement were true. In Tennessee the repugnants cross over at every election just to choose our candidate - the one that can not win, it is exactly what they did in 2004. They were terrified that shrub would have to be in a debate with John Edwards, they all crossed over to make sure Kerry was the candidate, laughed all the way home and came back later in the year to crown shrub king.
Since I will vote for anyone who receives our nomination, I am considering crossing over for the first time in my life and voting in the repugnant primary - in hopes Rudy will get their nomation - he can't win in the Bible Belt. Bubba may marry 3 or 4 of his cousins, but he is a bubba, not a new york yank, so it is ok for bubba. I know bubbaland - I grew up here.

Obama wins CNN focus group

nolalily — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 13:43:59 GMT

Obama - a black Muslem? That has been debunked a thousand times.

He has never been a black Muslem. Raised by his white mother and grandparents in Hawaii (they're from El Dorado, Kansas) Obama is a member of the United Church of Christ. Not particularly religious, he began developing his spiritual views when he began working on the southside of Chicago. The movers and shakers of the American black community are often affiliated through Christianity and their churches.

Obama's father was African and from the nation of Kenya. "Barack" is a Christian name (mother) and Hussein is a common Muslem name (father) and Obama is African.

At this dangerous time in our history, it is important that we all tell the truth and quit spreading lies. Our security isn't a game you play with.

Obama wins CNN focus group

leon houston tx. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:10:05 GMT

Chuck and mark,
Iam sorry that I have to be the conscience of the blog.This is not fox news. you cannot allow people to misrepresent Obama's religious views. this amounts to push polling and you are too respected for that. Once again Obama is a Christian. I believe Church of Christ. He is not Muslim though I believe his father was.Fight with truth all you want but please do not try to muddy the waters with lies.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Dale L. Salazar — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:43:01 GMT

I am a female but I am just turned off with Senetor Hilary personality, she is just too in love with power.
There is something about Obama that sends a wave of trust to may neurons, he is a Columbiam graduate just like Eisenhower that says a lot.
Edwards is just too evangelical in his mannerims which turns me off.
I did like Governor Richardsons proposal just bring the troops home, the end.
The rest were too comical or emotional to be taken seriously

Obama wins CNN focus group

Julie in VT — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 14:56:02 GMT

I pretty much agree with Richardson with just about everything, but I wish he could string a few sentences coherently. It reminds me of the same problem Gen. Clark had in the last cycle. I'm for Richardson (I live in Nevada, a caucus state), but fear I'm going to have to make another (i.e., more popular) choice.
Steve (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 2:32 AM)

STEVE - stick w/ Richardson! He's got a command of WHAT to do as a prez, just not the glib "politician" air about him. I think he just needs more time to get up higher in the polls so he can breathe a little easier during the debates. Right now, he's in 4th place and still scratching to get to the top - therefore he tends toward trying to say too much in a short time. This will change, I think. Hang in there!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Liz, Nottingham, NH — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:00:47 GMT

A fine job by Senator Biden. His answers were honest, clear, and substantive. He won based on knowledge, leadership, and experience.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Lyn, Silver Spring, MD — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:16:09 GMT

Leon, don't hold your breath waiting for anybody to set the record straight on lies about Obama except us.
The agenda is set, push Hillary as hard as possible and tear Obama down. However, I have a feel this time the MSM won't have the last say. They fooled us with Bush and the war, never again.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Kim Jones, Richmond, Va. — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:41:55 GMT

Obama is a gentlman and scholar. Right now we need diplomacy and respect of other foreign leaders to make that move for combined peace efforts and uniting the neighboring countries to bring stability to Iraq even if Iran, Syria and turkey and Afghanistan have to do it.
It is quite evident that those representing us are untrustworthy. Obama speaks the truth and is open to compromise.
Unlike this boy cowboy in presidents clothing, allowing his administration to corrupt everything it touches, even the news.
I'm tired of the: see if you can catch me doing it politics of Washington DC. I don't want another Clinton Soap Opera in the White House, I want real truthful open change. Obama, Kucinich,and Edwards aren't afraid of speaking loudly about the real issues facing our country.
Not who's sleeping with who. Men sometimes cheat, Bill picked the wrong time to screw around on his wife while in the White House. Those kind of forgive me decisions, will never enter an OBAMA Presidential Administration.
If America wants the truth, they may have to settle for Barack whether they like it or not. None of the others have the judgement or grace to admint when they are wrong or tell the truth about their fundage.
The democrats have become progressives and grassroot.
This means Positve change and not being afraid to roll up your sleeves, and get dirty in the clean up.

Let's all clean the mess left behind by the Clinton's, Bush's I and II, and move for the changes denied us for the last twenty-five years.

CHANGE MEANS JUST THAT, C-H-A-N-G-E

Vote for Obama, he respects the constitution and laws.
He will find all the lobbyist dirt and remove it from our laws and justice department.
He will remove the politicalization of our Justice system which is supposed to be blind to race, party, color, or creed.
He will bring RESPECT TO THE WHITE HOUSE AND TO THE WORLD.

Obama wins CNN focus group

ericwillyb@aol.com — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 15:54:26 GMT

To Miss ROSENBERG WHO WROTE"this is scary. Obama is hiding the fact that he is Muslim..we, US, should look at this connection
Kathy Rosenberg, West Linn, Oregon (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 12:38 AM)"

What I can say about your comment is that , it show your personality, You are just a divider!
Obama is a christian! And he did well yesterday in the DEBATE, He even won. So let's be objective and fair!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Alfred McFarland, Sacramento. California — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:01:15 GMT

I think the reporters that are pushing an agenda for their chosen candidate, and reporting that their person as the winner when the results do not support their report should be removed from this type of coverage.

Obama wins CNN focus group

BELIEVE ME, TRAVERSE CITY MICHIGAN — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:23:29 GMT

WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE. OUR NATION WAS FOUNDED ON CHRISTIAN PRINCIPALS. WHY WOULD YOU EVEN CONSIDER A MUSLIM IN OUR LEADERSHIP. I'M NOT SAYING THEY ARE ALL BAD PEOPLE, I'M SAYING DO YOU WANT TO GIVE AN OPEN DOOR TO ALL MIDDLE EAST PEOPLE BECAUSE IF YOU VOTE FOR OBAMA THAT IS WHAT WILL HAPPEN. WAKE UP AMERICA. GET A CLUE.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Lois, Fort Dodge, IA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:45:12 GMT

First, Obama is not, never was, nor ever will be a Muslim. He is a Christian in every sense of the word. Clinton is so practiced of course she will be articulate in what she has to say.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Levi Knight — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:30:15 GMT

Everyone talks about experience!! Well here's the thing, the longer you've been in a role, the more complacent you get. Clinton has that way about her. George Bush is very complacent - because of his 'experience'.
Senator Obama is fresh, smart and not scared to bring about real change!
Clinton would just listen to the same old people who would give her the same old advise and strategies - boring, boring, boring and she'd just listen and do as she's told because she'll be too afraid to ruin her reputation AND HER HUSBAND'S.
Her answer in the debate "I wouldn't talk to foreign leaders in my first year because I would want to ensure I wasn't being used for propaganda" just shows us how much she doesn't give a damn about doing the right thing, and cares much more about what people might think or say about her. She's not wise enough! And that's the truth!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Mario Silva , Merida, Yucatan , Mex. , — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 18:38:07 GMT

Politics like technology will be enveloped in rapid change in the next years . None of the candidates have addressed how they will cope with the effects of rapid technology change on the political , social and economic environments . Technological advancement is the cornerstone of many world events which have an impact on social , political and economic behaviors worldwide .
I´d like to hear a discussion of issues taking this factor into consideration.
GMVS-2007

Obama wins CNN focus group

Andy, Indianapolis, IN — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 19:19:44 GMT

Clinton voted for the Iraq war and sent our troops to die for oil companies. Obama needs to be the next president!

Obama wins CNN focus group

RJ, Hampton, VA — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:17:56 GMT

Obama won the debate hands down, in my opinion. Hilary thinks she is destined to be President. I don't want anymore Bush's or Clinton's in the white house. Barack is the best thing going right now.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Candace — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 20:34:30 GMT

Obama was great and I found Biden very refreshing.

However, I don't get how so many Dems love Hilary.
Her negatives are sooo high. The way I see it, if she gets elected we will once again have a divided country - am I missing something here!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Probably your neighbor, Beaverton, Oregon — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 21:21:37 GMT

Enough with the Anti-Muslim talk already. It's bad enough that even considering Obama might be a Muslim is considered a smear. There are 1 billion Muslims in this world, and 99.9% of them are peaceful, generous people who have no beef with America. So what if Obama's father was a Muslim? Does that mean that Obama is any less intelligent or able to lead the country? He is a fine, upstanding individual who would be the perfect healing solution for the rifts and divisions caused by the current administration and their screaming cronies on the radio.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Lue, Anderson, SC — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 23:46:17 GMT

I think that Barack Obama hit it out of the park last night. He was the clear winner! I know that some in the media said that Hillary Clinton won, but that is what they always say after one of these debates, and I'm wondering whether or not some of these pundits are actually part of the Hillary campaign. It seems that she can do no wrong in these debates (or elsewhere), while these same pundits seem to always say that Barack Obama is inexperienced and naive. Thank goodness that the average Joe and Jane Doe out there have different opinions than the political pundits, who obviously support Hillary. Most of the voters in these focus groups are of the opinion that it is Barack Obama who wins these debates. And, to the person on this forum who said that we shouldn't care what a few people in these focus groups think because the focus groups only consists of a very small minority of voters, should also at the same time realize that the political pundits that seem to be rooting for Hillary Clinton after each one of these debates, that the pundits also consists of a very small amount of people. But, I don't hear this person criticizing the pundits for their opinions.

Obama wins CNN focus group

kissai charlottesville — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 01:06:23 GMT

clearly clinton lost tonight ; she relies too much on rehearsed speeches ; barack was precise and clear in his answers ; go obama

Obama wins CNN focus group

kissai charlottesville — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 01:37:25 GMT

clearly clinton lost tonight ; she relies too much on rehearsed speeches ; barack was precise and clear in his answers ; go obama

Obama wins CNN focus group

alice, columbus, ohio — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 02:56:37 GMT

This country needs an honest broker, with credibility and a degree of honesty. Obama is a natural leader who is capable of healing this country nationally and internationally.
The Clintons treated the Whitehouse like a brothel at taxpayers expense including Monica, travelgate, whitewater, Vince Foster. The Republicans are going to have a mardi gras exposing the Clintons; it will make the current administration look like sunday school. Is this what the Democratic leadership want?

Obama wins CNN focus group

Mark Flanders, Bellingham, Wash — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 06:10:42 GMT

Good comment on process from David Guilbault above.

Actually, they all did fairly well. The Clinton attack on Obama after the debates (on diplomacy) was pure politics. Obama answered the question straight up. (like people are have been asking our politicians to do.) Clinton called him names after the fact and touted her nuanced contradictory non-answer with a little help from Albight. Whatever. I give Obama the benefit of the doubt on this one. Focus groups? Interesting. We'll see. It ain't over yet.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Maxwell, Uppsala, Sweden — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 12:38:14 GMT

On whether or not a USA president should be willing to talk to rogue nations, Hillary proved that she is a conservative who wants things to remain the way they are and they should not change. According to Hillary,new ideas that contradict Bush's international diplomacy means propaganda to her. She is in the error of 'won't do, can't even try'. Obama showed himself as a progressive when he said he will be willing to talk to rogue states because the opposite that is advocated by Bush and Hillary has produced no results. Instead people have lost confidence in the USA. Obama good luck !

Obama wins CNN focus group

Joe B — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:24:46 GMT

Clinton is buisness as usual. Obama is very sincere. Who in his right mind will just jump out from president seat inthe first week of office to go and speak with those leaders. Obama made it clear, " I will send signals that we need to talk" What does that mean? Signal is a big word that can be interpreted as you wish. Clinton is criticzing the guy because she want to sound tough just to compensate her womanhood. next question please!

Obama wins CNN focus group

Ray, Alfred/BK, NY — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 18:15:08 GMT

Hillary must of forgot her statement in April that talking to these people is a good thing andpresident Bush is wrong. I'm just curious, why she didn't lead the think before you speak to these people when Nancy Pelosi went on her field trip to Syria??

Obama for President

Obama wins CNN focus group

Pete, M, Toronto, Canada — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 19:20:37 GMT

Thompson tops GOP hopefuls in state poll
Obama posts gain, Clinton declines Wednesday, July 25, 2007DAVID WHITENews staff writer
MONTGOMERY - Former Sen. Fred Thompson of Tennessee is the leading candidate for president among Alabamians likely to vote in the Republican primary next year, a new poll shows.

The Capital Survey Research Center, an arm of the Alabama Education Association teachers lobby, conducted the poll July 11-13 and July 16-19.

It also showed that support for Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois, fueled by a jump in support among blacks, has grown since a similar poll in May among Alabamians likely to vote in the Democratic presidential primary. Support for Sen. Hillary Clinton of New York has stagnated, and the race between them is a statistical dead heat.

Obama wins CNN focus group

melody p , washington dc — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 21:16:44 GMT

Obama was clearly the best. But just to clarify, Obama is not a muslim, his father is of AFRICAN desent. The name BARACK OBAMA means "blessed lightning" in Swahili.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Sea, Naperville, IL — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 22:51:19 GMT

Obama had the biggest improvement in this debate. He clearly won the debate. Hillary came second only because she didnt really change anything that she's been doing. In the end, Obama is now coming out of his shell so he can sprint to the finish line in the last few months and take the nomination.

Obama wins CNN focus group

Stan Moss,Nassau, Bahamas — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 02:35:02 GMT

Senator Clinton's taughts and ideas on important political issues, especially comments on Americas position in the global arena are not authentic.

Obama emulates a substance of change. Going into Sounth Carolina and creating the level of excitement amoung Democrats and Republicans just speaks volumes.

America is in dia need of a president who will speak directly to Castro and tell him to free the people of Cuba...

Obama wins CNN focus group

M Mariano — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 20:34:05 GMT

Joy Gilmore said "The media has been anti-Hillary all along..." I wonder what media that has been. Salon.com called Senator Obama "Uppity" in an article headline; Fox news broke the story, with much glee about Obama's "sordid past", which lead people to believe untruths about the guy. I have seen very little negative press about Ms. Clinton. I don't think I saw any media about the wisdom of electing a President that brings an impeached ex-Pres to the White House with her, as First Man.