Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rhoda — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:07:21 GMT

I disagree with this post: Ms. Crawley said that absent an immigration reform bill she supports Gov. giving out driver's liscenses to illegal immigrants she said no that she didn't it was up to the states and state by state decision. How is that a different answer? All of her statments have basically taken the position Ms. Crawley laid out - which is unpopular with 80% of the democrats. I think this is why people see her as a flip-flopper: we hear one thing consistently and she denies it compleletly.

Clinton has been consistent in supporting lisences for illegals. Why she can't just say it, I don't know.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Amazed, Atlanta — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:08:50 GMT

Immigration is a complex and messy issue, and it doesn't lend itself to political soundbites. Any republican or democrat that promises to throw out all illegals is lying. The reality is, identifying these people is probably a good thing, perhaps maybe a "specific" type of driver's license that would prohibit voter fraud is in order... of course, that would require more administration and more taxpayer money. There are no easy answers now. Clinton is right about one thing.. the federal governments' failures HAS caused states to have to come up with patchwork solutions to deal with VERY REAL problems in their states caused by the influx of immigrants. This is not a 30 second soundbite problem folks... this is a complex solution that will require multifaceted solutions. Simply getting angry at illegals won't solve the problem.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Dot, Illinois — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:10:09 GMT

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ravine Force, Kissimmee, FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:13:38 GMT

She is a good Tango dancer. Dances all around the question. Bad practice of not being able to simply say yes, I support it. Or no, I don't agree with it.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Justin, Gainesville FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:14:51 GMT

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Chuck,San Diego — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:16:20 GMT

since when did the president of the USA decide about drivers licenses?
Or is that state's right to be overtaken too?

-------------

I know, the Clinton bashers would rather talk about how she doesn't answer a question that wouldn't apply to the president, but who give's a ratsass anyway?

Can we talk about an issue that the president does effect?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:18:15 GMT

Ok. That was slightly longer than 30 seconds, she had ample opportunity to eschew sound-bites and give a good substantive answer, and I still have absolutely no idea what her position is.

Can anyone do me a solid and explain it for me?

Anyone?

Beuller?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:20:32 GMT

Elliot Spitzer supports a modified driver's license so that we can keep track of undocumented workers. The license cannot be used to board airplanes and it is a non-breeder document, which means that it cannot be used to get other documents. It is a fairly simple concept and either you support it or you don't.

So what about you Hillary? Do you support it or not? Come take a shot at it? You know that both positions, for and against, are defensible, so you only wind up alienating one side or the other. But you can't call it nuanced and you can't have it both ways. This is not swift boating. This is policy and you have to take a stand. Presidents have to take a stand. People, even people like me, would have more respect for your candidacy if you would just take a stand.

For me the policy seems safe and simple. I support it as a safety measure and a way to keep track of these people while we take measures to tighten the borders and enforce laws to prohibit their hiring.

BTW I hope that all of you anti-immigration people are prepared to pay about 30% more for food and housing once we eliminate cheap foreign labor. I am. I only support restrictions on hiring of illegals because it lowers wages across the nation and creates a class of near slave laborers. But remember those costs of higher labor will be passed on to you, the consumer.

I think that encouraging people who are here illegally to return to Mexico (we can't round them up Tom Tancredo) and then have them reapply for legal entry is the fairest proposition. But while they are here they need a non-breeder DL so we have an idea who they are and where they live. It would help with tracking terrorists as well.
Obama '08

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

jerry/corpus christi texas — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:21:46 GMT

What a total moron.....

But seriously Senator Clinton.......

What is your stand on illegal immigrants getting drivers licenses in New York?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:21:48 GMT

ANSWER THE QUESTION!!!!!!!!!!!!

YES OR NO!!!!!!!

ANSWER IT!!!!!!

That is why she is a great advisor. She can see both sides. But, a leader looks at both sides and then makes a decision.

She cares more about what Republicans think of her, and how her answers will play in the general election, than what the Democrats, who have supported the party, and her husband, for so many years, think.

ANSWER THE QUESTION!!!!

I GET BOTH SIDES OF THE ARGUMENT, I'M NOT STUPID, STOP EXPLAINING AND START ANSWERING.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Steve — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:21:53 GMT

I have to believe the press is an intelligent entity. Operating under that premise, why is it so difficult to understand what Hillary is saying?

As I understand it:

-- This is a complex issue; doesn't warrant a simple yes/no answer.

-- This is a state issue. Works in NY. May not work in other places.

-- What we really need is comprehensive immigration reform.

Now, I'm not a journalist and I got it. What's the problem? So when it's asked why this debate question turned into a 7 day story, it's because the press won't let it go.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

tyler daniels, eaton ohio — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:25:23 GMT

It is amazing how easy it is to end the fortunes of a promising candidate. Gore got caught inventing the internet. Kerry voted for it before he voted against it. And Hillary can't give an answer to a simple question.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Edna ohio — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:29:26 GMT

So poor little girl Hillary, she can't make up her mind. And then Bill comes to her rescue and said the boys are picking on her. Makes me wonder if she can't take the heat then get out of the kitchen! I have not notice any of the men running having to have there wives come to there rescue. Poor, Poor little Hillary.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Amy B Portland, ME — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:31:57 GMT

I understand what Clinton is saying. She is being rational. Would we prefer she launch into some idiotic, immigrant baiting, rabble rousing tirade? Would that make for better TV? PS. Still supporting John Edwards here. I just think he could weather attacks like this from the media and Republicans better than Hillary in the general election.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Chuck,San Diego — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:40:02 GMT

yes, steve, it is an intelligent answer.. obviously if you're a tyleridiot it goes way over your head.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Margaret, NYC — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:40:41 GMT

Politics of Parsing II - Cha Cha Cha

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DkzlxJcbx54&eurl=http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/11/7/102859/575

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Chris, Wood River, IL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:43:43 GMT

Hillary is clearly caught in a position that she doesn't want to be in...so she's refusing to answer the question. She doesn't want to alienate the far left and Latinos by saying she opposes giving DL's to illegals, and she doesn't want to disagree with 80% of the country who strongly oppose giving DL's to illegals. Finally...a Clinton is cornered into a position that requires an actual answer.

Until she clearly answers this question, she'll continue her free fall in the polls. Obama needs to continue to seize on this opportunity.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Laurie, Manasquan, NJ — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:45:51 GMT

I like the idea of having some sort of document that tracks the whereabouts of illegals. Although most people don't condone the issuing of driver's licenses to illegals, it could be a different license than the one that citizens and residents receive and it could be used to track the illegals. It would be a good thing to know where they are and how many there are in any given community or state. I understand what Mrs. Clinton is trying to say. It's not an easy yes or no answer. It's more complicated than that and I can understand her trying to answer it more than just with a yes or no answer. The negative coverage has just been a tool by the right and her democratic opponents to bash her with.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Doug Shulman, Pine City NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:46:33 GMT

But seriously Senator Clinton.......

What is your stand on illegal immigrants getting drivers licenses in New York?

-----------------

Hillary doesn't feel compelled to answer the question. She says she's not from New York.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Class Warrior, D.C. — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:55:53 GMT

Wow! Has msnbc really stopped being Clinton's cheerleader, or is this just a temporary glitch?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Class Warrior, D.C. — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:55:53 GMT

Wow! Has msnbc really stopped being Clinton's cheerleader, or is this just a temporary glitch?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Dorthy Carlon, Hartsville South Carolina — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:56:26 GMT

-- This is a complex issue; doesn't warrant a simple yes/no answer.

Yes. That's it. When someone asks Hillary a tough question, she should just answer 'It's complex, you wouldn't understand.'. That would sure get her a lot more votes.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

TJB, Scottsdale — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:56:40 GMT

Where is everyone’s memory when it comes to Hillary, and the Clinton Presidency?? Although it must be said, that the memories of their transgressions are somewhat lost due to the fact that George Bush has been so horrendous as a president. That notwithstanding, at least the Bush administration and family haven’t subjected this country to the disgraceful scandals, cheating and lying that this country was forced to endure during the Clinton’s stay in the White House….wherein Hillary was the First “Lady”? The facts are undisputedly the facts….

So, before we treat this ‘lady” with too much respect and allow anyone to try and illustrate her as someone other than who she is, where she’s being abused by the nasty moderators, or supposedly being “piled on” by her male political counterparts, let’s not forget who we’re really dealing with …..

This highly documented former First “Lady” of Arkansas and the White House, now a Senator from New York, has been consistent in her political life…. consistently disingenuous, ruthless and scandal prone. …..She’s a person whose veracity has been routinely questioned, because she always seems to have problems finding the truth, …whether it’s hers, …or when she’s counseling her husband, ….or directing those around her.

Arguably, she’s formidable with her legal background, it allows her a greater knowledge of precisely where, and how, to carefully parse her statements and actions, to avoid direct hits…..To that end, she’s had a professional lifetime of perfecting her “doubletalk” skills, but, it now appears that there’s a fatal flaw emerging…for when modestly pressured, she apparently can’t keep all of her BS, half truths straight, especially if they’re not accepted at face value and when she’s taken off message.

Make no mistake about it, now there’s blood in the water, her political blood, and the media and her Democrat and Republican alike foes have picked up the scent. I don’t think there will be any more instances of “Tim, (Russert), I’m not going to answer that question” or unchallenged position statements like the Illegal Immigrants Drivers license fiasco where she attempts to say both yes, and no, at the same time. It appears as though the ice maiden is finally starting to melt under the hot lights of scrutiny and the heat is only going to become greater, because the present is starting to look hauntingly similar to her past conniving past. What is it that they say about old dogs???

During a recent interview with Katie Couric: CBS political correspondent Jeff Greenfield observed: ” Hillary Clinton's dissembling answer during Tuesday's Democratic presidential debate, about why her White House records have not been released was uniquely Clintonesque, he then reminded "CBS Evening News" viewers on Wednesday night of her past scandals, scandals that have not mentioned by the media in years. Continuing on, Greenfield outlined why Hillary Clinton, contrary to her claim was still attempting to “blame the National Archives for sealing her White House papers when clearly a letter from Bill Clinton shows he asked that they be sealed for 12 years.”

The notion that there's stuff that's being restricted potentially opens the door to asking questions about, well, the travel office where the independent counsel said she had been factually false. How did her brothers get pardons for two felons after being paid hundreds of thousands of dollars? How did she raise $100,000 trading cattle futures? This stuff hasn't come up in the campaign......And it hasn't come up in the mainstream media which, until Tim Russert's question at the debate about the suppression of her records, has so far shown little interest in “asking questions” about the 1990s Clinton era scandals.

Other 1990’s Clinton Scandals, aside from those that Greenfield mentioned, in part, include the following:

Sex scandals with Jennifer Flowers, Paula Jones, Monica Lewinski, Whitewater, The Rose Law Firm, Vince Foster, Travelgate, Filegate, Both being Subpoenaed by a Federal Grand Jury, Perjury to a Federal Grand Jury, (aside from lying to the American public on national television) Obstruction of Justice, Articles of Impeachment, Pardongate, etc.etc. It has to be said that Bill certainly can’t take all of the credit for the headlines:

The Senate committee accused "an American presidency [of having] misused its power, circumvented the limits on its authority and attempted to manipulate the truth." The First Lady came in for much stronger criticism, as she was billed as "the central figure" in all aspects of their investigations”.

“But the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco reinstated the case in November. According to Flowers' lawsuit, Hillary Rodham Clinton organized and directed a conspiracy to defame her. Judge Pro ruled that the alleged defamatory statements "are arguably consistent with such a conspiracy."

“With the discovery of the long sought after billing records, in Hillary Rodham Clinton’s book room in the White House, on January 26, 1996 Hillary Rodham Clinton made history by becoming the first, First Lady to ever be subpoenaed to testify before a Federal Grand jury”

”After the death of Vince Foster in July of 1993, chief White House counsel Bernard Nussbaum removed documents, some of them concerning the Whitewater Development Corporation, from Foster's office and gave them to Margaret Williams. According to the New York Times, Williams placed them in a safe in the White House for five days before the Clintons turned them over to their personal lawyer for transfer to the authorities.

More recently - WASHINGTON -- In the spring, when Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton was denouncing the Dubai Ports World deal, a consulting firm run by her top advisers was quietly lobbying for a Dubai takeover of two U.S. defense plants, Newsday has learned. Called, “The Glover Park Group”, known as the "White House in Exile" - was founded five years ago by a group of top advisers to Bill and Hillary Rodham Clinton, including former White House communications director Joe Lockhart and key Hillary Clinton advisers Gigi Georges and Howard Wolfson, who don't engage in lobbying but are apprised of the firm's lobbying efforts.

In late August 2007, a major contributor to, and "bundler" for, Clinton's campaign, called a "Hillraiser", Norman Hsu, was revealed to be a 15-years-long fugitive in an investment fraud case. He was also suspected of having broken campaign finance law regarding his bundling collections. The Clinton campaign first said it would donate to charity the $23,000 that Hsu personally contributed to her, then said it would refund to 260 donors the full $850,000 in bundled donations raised by Hsu.[ Hsu was subsequently indicted on new investment fraud charges.

Undoubtedly, there are more issues lingering in the shadows, waiting in the wings, for this person knows only one way to conduct herself. And, to her discredit her main counsel, is her husband, who even with the aid of a GPS unit couldn’t find his way to the truth…..I know this will fall on the deaf ears of the blind feminists, the straight ticket democrats, those aligned with the special interest groups that are so coveted by the Clinton’s…..But, to all of the rest of you, don’t be duped…..this is one, evil, power hungry, mercenary female that will do anything, stop at nothing, to achieve her goals…Some of you may take exception with my post, but, unfortunately in this case, the facts are etched in history and unlike Hillary, these facts don’t lie.

To that end, let’s do away with the old time, hackneyed, lobbyist aligned, special interest group compromised, not to be trusted, type of candidate and move on to a new day of honesty and dignity. Let’s elect a chief executive that can, and will bring this country together, giving the rest of the world a sense that we really care about our image and actions .There’s only candidate that has shown the dynamics, the requisite forward thinking programs, who possesses a sense of dignity, honesty, with no scandals or dark secrets trailing from the past, a person that embodies the best image we could present as a diverse society,…. the young Senator from Illinois…..

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:58:48 GMT

What is absolutely fascinating about this, to me, is that whatever her position on this issue ultimately ends up being, the bigger story since the debate has been the tone-deaf, ham-handed response of Sen. Clinton's campaign. How a campaign with so much experience, money, and star power (and President Clinton, easily the best pure politician in post-war American history as an advisor) flubbed this so badly is beyond me. They turned a 1-2 day story about a badly worded (non)answer at the tail end of a debate she had largely performed well at into a tsunami that is still pounding them more than a week later.

If Sen. Clinton's campaign moves (or more likely, her poor political instincts) are this bad in a primary that she is largely winning, what the h*ll is she going to do in the general? The "boys are picking on me" meme is a "in case of fire break glass" response that she gets to use only a very few times before voters, who are electing the President of the USA, not Treasurer of the local school board will get very tired of very quickly. Clinton's campaign looks very strong (polls, money, organization) but also very brittle.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 17:59:51 GMT

I don't think this one is going to go away. Seems to me Senator Clinton is not helping her cause by her responses----she isn't portraying herself as a decisive decison maker. Probably would be best to bite the bullet with a simply yes or no and get it over with.
Dot, Illinois (Sent Wednesday, November 07, 2007 12:10 PM)

Respectfully, I disagree. I don't think every issue has a yes or no answer, and I think that Hillary has clarified her response. While she supports governors taking the initiative in trying to get a handle on illegal immigration, she does not necessarily support every measure that they take in that effort. It's more than just yes it is a good idea or no it is not. Things are rarely that simple.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Daniel Elliott, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:00:16 GMT

You know for all those who say HC is calculating and sticks her finger in the wind and then makes a decision....here we have a situation completely counter to that way of thinking. I am quite sure they know that the polling on this in not on their side but has she changed her position? No. I am also confident that they know that by not putting this story to bed they will continue to have to address it.
And to Adam in OH – the answer to your question is that HC understands the governor’s position. “Understand” being the key word here. Further she “understands” that not every state will have to tackle the issue as they don’t have as huge a problem with undocumented workers as New York. I understand her answers to mean that because there hasn’t been leadership by the current president on the issue of immigration reform that the states have to try to get a handle on the problem. Giving undocumented workers driver’s licenses is one way to do this. Is it the best solution? No. But is it a thoughtful attempt at addressing the issue? Yes.
This story line is a classic example of people’s inability to wrap their heads around a complex answer to a complex issue. I mean must everything be spelled out as if she is talking to third graders? Grow up people, we live in a world with many difficult and challenging issues facing us and many of these issues do not have blanket solutions, yes or no answers. Hillary Clinton has attempted, in my mind, to address the questions with as much specificity as possible and I am satisfied with her explanation.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:01:39 GMT

That's a good boy, Mark! Good boy! You get a newsie-treat! Now, if you'd only do this kind of expose on the rest of her double- and triple-speak I might actually begin to think you're a real journalist. For that matter, you might consider the same for all the candidates. I feel you should focus on Hillary, though, to help make up for MSNBC's (and pretty much all other mainstream media's) be-smitten, fawning, and generally saccarine "reporting" on her.
Justin, Gainesville FL (Sent Wednesday, November 07, 2007 12:14 PM)

I haven't seen much fawning recently, Justin. I've seen an awful lot of stories on First Read about the effects of her debate performance, and her answer to this question specifically. But far be it from me to challenge your obviously unbiased perception.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Crystal (Time for change) — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:01:45 GMT

No one is questioning the complexity of the issue. However the fact remains, that the question was specifically regarding Spitzer's plan, do you support it? The answer is "yes" or "no". If you say, "No", you can explain why, or you may say you support some parts and not others, but for Christ sake answer the question already!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Chris Penn — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:02:28 GMT

Can any one answer this question yet? Has anyone asked Edwards or Obama or any other candidates this question? Can anyone answer this question here, let alone in 30 seconds? Go for it, I dare any of you.Answer yes or no if illegals should have whatever type of license and then why or why not. Come on Jerry! What shall we do with all illegal immigrants? Sending them all back is not an option, not possible. If you say send them back , then how? Back to their country of origin? How do we stop them from coming back the next week, then what? Jail them all? Come on smarty pants idiots on First Read. You have 30 seconds to answer. OK, I will give you a whole day to figure it out and report back to me. Oh, maybe a month, no a whole year to figure it all out. Get over yourselves, dumbasses.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Bruce, NV — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:02:47 GMT

The answer to illegal immigration is attrition by enforcement. DLs for illegals goes the other way...stop giving illegals benefits, start fining and jailing those who hire them, get a grip on the number who are here, and then, and only then, see about reforming the immigration laws.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Daniel, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:11:03 GMT

Don't forget that it was Edwards who drew some heavy fire the other day for a very similar weak response on the very same question: http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2007/11/remember-remember-fifth-of-november.html

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Bubba — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:11:17 GMT

Damed if you do, or damed if you don't. It's just another part of the "mess" the Bush administration has got us into. No leadership in Washington. hillaryclinton.com .

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Steve — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:19:06 GMT

Yes. That's it. When someone asks Hillary a tough question, she should just answer 'It's complex, you wouldn't understand.'. That would sure get her a lot more votes.

It's not that people won't get it. It's that it's more complex than yes or no. If I ask someone if they support abortion and they answer, "I don't support in abortion but I support a woman's right to choose." Are they giving me an answer? Yes. Is it a simple yes/no answer? No. It's a complex, moral issue that deserves more than a knee-jerk response.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

yes criticize, but do not answer — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:19:13 GMT

Did anyone saw abc last sunday with stephanopoulos. Did anyone remember John Edwards to the same question?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:19:43 GMT

Daniel Elliott, Los Angeles, CA

"the answer to your question is that HC understands the governor’s position."

Well that's just wonderful. I feel so much better knowing that she can *sympathize* with the quandry that Gov. Spitzer is in (and other gov's since the comprehensive immigration reform failed). Now if she could please provide some insight as to the specific details of the NY plan she does, or does not support, in whole or in part, I'd be much obliged. Many days later and she still has not provided it.

"Hillary Clinton has attempted, in my mind, to address the questions with as much specificity as possible and I am satisfied with her explanation."

I'm really not attempting to be rude or combatitive, but if you're satisfied with this waffling, triangulating non-answer, you are a very cheap date when it comes to candor from your political leaders.

The issue (illegal immigration) is, as you rightly described, a complicated one. But the question she was asked was not "Give me your solution to the immigration issue in 30 seconds or less" it was a very specific question about a very specific policy proposal by Gov. Sptizer. She can support it, oppose it, support some parts and not others, all well and good, but we have a right to an answer on this.

I care not at all what her precious feelings are on the matter, I care about what her position is now, and what she would do as president.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ted Kavelle, Carbondale, Illinois — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:20:55 GMT

TJB, as a teacher, I give you a flunking grade on your first paragraph, so therefore you get an F in politics 101. TJB, you apparently haven't attended ANY classes(US or the world) in the past 7 years. Your statement, that the Bush family and this administration haven't subjected this country to disgraceful scandals, cheating and lying is 100% incorrect and you were obviously in a coma or living out of the country not to notice what a ridiculous and untrue statement this is. I had difficulty reading the rest because of your flawed and myopic thinking. You flunked! Furthermore, you are probably lying about being an Obama supporter because mostly everyone and their uncle,(with the exception of about 28% of republicans)knows that the Bush administration is/was far more damaging and dastardly than the Clinton administration EVER was...EVER.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Crystal (Time for change) — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:25:29 GMT

Adam (Columbus, Ohio) says,

"The issue (illegal immigration) is, as you rightly described, a complicated one. But the question she was asked was not "Give me your solution to the immigration issue in 30 seconds or less" it was a very specific question about a very specific policy proposal by Gov. Sptizer. She can support it, oppose it, support some parts and not others, all well and good, but we have a right to an answer on this."

Exactly my point!!!!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Margaret, NYC — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:26:06 GMT

Daniel - Edwards answer on ABC's This Week - he opposes drivers licenses for illegal immigrants unless they're on a path to citizenship.

At least he has a position - Hillary does not.

And here's more Hillary triangulation!
Edwards opposes the Peru FTA, Obama supports it, Hillary - ???
http://commonsense.ourfuture.org/hillary_clinton_nafta_triangulation_2_0

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

F StLouis — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:26:55 GMT

Oh yea TJB, we certainly won't be duped by YOU! Most ridiculous crap I've read in a long time here, next to Jerry nonsense of course. No lying or scandal in the Bush White House? Are you heavily medicated or what? HUH? What on earth is wrong with you?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Dot, Illinois — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:27:22 GMT

Carrie

I understand what you are saying. But for some, this failure to respond definitively seems to shows a pattern of not responding directly to questions for fear of alienating at certain voting block. They find that troubling--political expediancy over firm stances.

My point is, rightly or wrongly, whether that perception is unfair or untrue, she is going to have to deal with this problem--- the opposition is not going to let it be forgotten. In my view, the longer it drags on, the harder it gets to correct.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:28:28 GMT

Chris Penn:

Actually Obama clearly stated that he supported Governor Spitzer's plan. He said it at the debate and it was a simple, 'yes, I support it.' It took all of a 2 second sound bite. It's really quite simple. It only becomes complicated or nuanced when one is trying to avoid answering the question.
Obama '08

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Psychic Mary — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:28:31 GMT

I see Hillary Clinton as our next president. I know this will make some people angry. I have seen this vision. She will be our next president.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Steve — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:36:45 GMT

Did anyone saw abc last sunday with stephanopoulos. Did anyone remember John Edwards to the same question?

I saw it. Bottom line: he holds the same position as Hillary. I could be wrong but he believes it's something the states should be deciding. The transcript to the interview should be available at www.abcnews.com

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

karlos — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:40:20 GMT

hillary should be on dancing with the stars as she can two step with the best of them. my bet is she's trying to avoid blowing off the latino vote, especially in fla, remember 2000? as to the complexity of immigration it's fairly clear, it's illegal immigration, key word illegal. the immigration bill they tried to pass gave extra credit for job skills and education. does that sound like the illegals we're discussing in the original concept of workers that occupy low paying and manual labor jobs we don't want,no! its an attempt to bring in skilled labor to compete with our own workforce and grads at a lower pay and benefits. its the insourcing of our previous outsourcing of jobs. the outsourcing isn't going so well with all the product and food recalls from abroad. since most of the illegals wouldn't qualify for these credits it doesn't address the issue of illegal immigration. two step your way around that.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Daniel Elliott, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:42:34 GMT

Adam in OH – Thank you for your response....I understand where your coming from but unlike you I do think HC has sufficiently answered the question. Is it as a straight forward an answer to satisfy you and others? No. But some of us don’t require our presidential candidates to button up every question put to them. This question is not, in my mind, important at all. I really don’t care one way or another if we do or do not give undocumented workers driver’s licenses. I just don’t care. But what I do care about is the lack of empathy people express toward one another. You don’t have to care that HC sympathizes with Governor Spitzer but in my mind that is part of what is wrong with politics today. Rather than attempt to “understand” how she might “understand” the governor’s position you just say “I don’t care how you feel just tell me what you think.” Your way of thinking is all too common today and very unfortunate. There you have it Adam, my feelings on the subject.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ron, Wichita, KS — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:43:37 GMT

It's simple: like husband, like wife. The word here is Clintonian political bob and weave. Does anyone remember what the meaning of the word "is" is???? Nuff said!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

David, Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:45:11 GMT

yes lets blame bush for her inability to answer whether or not she supports NY Gov's plan. She is a New York Senator. You would think she would have some thoughts on it.

Here is somthing i think we should all be reminded of. "ILLEGAL" <-- That means not legal, as in they are breaking the LAW!!! Not sure why they are still coming to USA anyway. Free trade with Mexico has all the plants moved down there anyway.

Hillary is a great politician. However she just reminds everyone how deceitful politicians are. As with her Husband, she will say anything to get into office. Right now she is stuck. A rareity. She cant give a straight answer without losing votes, and she has been called on it.

I love it.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

John S. Alexander,Edinboro, PA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:46:33 GMT

The drivers license issue is a media construct, it is a state issue masked as a national issue. Lets stop, breath and ignore this media play, what are the bigger issues on illegal immigration? JOBS JOBS JOBS JOBS JOBS JOBS JOBS. WAGES WAGES WAGES. When the national language is english and these people learn it, our service jobs will disappear the way carpentry and house building is going.
Grape picking season is over, they had all the handpickers they needed, they were advertising for machinery operators, including the last week of the season, good pay, no takers. I guess flippin burgers is better than working outside.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ron, Wichita, KS — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:47:23 GMT

Hillary, if we don't know and can't figure out what you're for, how can we decide to follow when and if you start to "lead". How will we know you are leading if we can't get a straight answer as to where you're going? Huh??

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:48:47 GMT

Dot, Illinois

"My point is, rightly or wrongly, whether that perception is unfair or untrue, she is going to have to deal with this problem--- the opposition is not going to let it be forgotten. In my view, the longer it drags on, the harder it gets to correct."

Beautifully said. The general election can be between a Democrat and a Republican on the issues, in which case the Democrats will most likely win, or it can be between Sen. Clinton and a Republican on whether we need to diagram every sentence Sen. Clinton speaks before we know what she really means, in which case it is not at all clear that she will win.

This is soft-soap, small stuff in comparison to what Sen. Clinton will face in the general election. Nothing the campaign has done since the debate gives me confident the candidate or her campaign is very talented at dealing with it.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

TEC-Spring-Tx — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:49:04 GMT

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:50:26 GMT

Daniel,

Thanks for your kind response.

"No. But some of us don’t require our presidential candidates to button up every question put to them."

This, I think, is where you and I will have to agree to disagree.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Marsha, Fresno, CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:51:15 GMT

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:51:39 GMT

Psychic Mary:

The only psychic I trust is Sylvester Stallone's mother. She predicted that Bush would win the 2000 election by a few hundred votes. Everyone laughed at her. Who knew? I might disagree with the term 'win', but certainly a few hundred votes in Florida (legal or not) did decide the election. Now that's a prediction! Can you match that precision?
Obama '08

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Just telling it as it is — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:51:43 GMT

Here’s what I believe. I believe that, first of all, we have to have comprehensive immigration reform. And for anybody in this country who is making an effort and on the path to obtaining American citizenship, yes, they should have a driver’s license. If they’re not making any effort to become an American citizen, and we have a system for doing that, my own personal view is, no, I would not give them a driver’s license

NOW HERE IS JOHN EDWARDS ANSWER. CAN SOMEBODY STATE WHAT HIS POISTION IS?????

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Psychic Dante — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:57:43 GMT

My prediction is that psychic mary is an idiot!!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

JoeCHI — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:58:57 GMT

It's not a non-answer. It's called Federalism.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Garry, Omaha, Nebraska — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 18:59:09 GMT

Hillary's answer is no, she does not approve States giving a drivers liscence to illegals. There needs to be comprehensive immigration reform bill that would address this matter as well as the multitude of other issues dealing with immigration. The absence of a comprehensive national immigration bill then forces the states to choose the lesser of evils in order to function.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Chris Penn — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:03:31 GMT

Ok, any one of you..answer that question in 30 seconds. Now explain why you support it. I heard Mr Spitzer just changed his position on this slightly. The answer was waaay tooo complicated and she should have said she didn't know yet or is unsure what she would do at this point... but of course dumbasses don't want to hear that either, and she'd be attacked for that too. How would any of the idiot republican candidates answer that question?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Stopwatchingfoxnews, Rochester, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:04:26 GMT

I think it's funny that everyone of the Democrats except Dodd, agree with Hillary, but the Media hasn't been harping on them about that question. If Obama does get the nomination, his answer of a definite yes to that question will come back to hurt him in the general election. Almost everyone here is bashing Hillary, but when it comes to the general election, you will be glad she voted for the Kyle/Lieberman and took a non position on the illegal immigrant licence thing. Edwards and Obama have gone so far left, Rudy will beat them in a General election, Because Hillary was smart enough not to get trapped, the Republicans cannot go after her when it comes to the War on terrorism and every other issue other than immigration, Dems win easily. There are 10% of you on the far left and 10% of you on the far Right. Most people live in the left of Center or right of Center. That is why Hillary will win.

100 million people vote for President. Only about 4-6 million listen to politics on talk radio or watch Hardball or other political shows. Everyone on these blogs might think they are speaking for america, but the sad truth 75% of the voters don't care. Half of that 75% vote on name recognition, the others vote on how well they're individual family is dealing with the economy. The vote on Iraq happened in 2006, It won't be as big an issue by the time the election happens.

Wake up people. If you want a Democrat in office, you better start supporting Hillary.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

seib — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:06:07 GMT

She did answer the question, but just not the way we want her to do it. How dare she???? When a question is asked, the responder has a choice, or her answer become non answer.
Thank you for clearing that up.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

karlos — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:08:09 GMT

david, iowa; the plants moved the wages didn't. that's why the plants keep moving' more profits no restrictions, like leaded paint and environmental pollution, decent wages and benefits. as long as we don't stop the multinationals from gross profits and tax their butts the outsourcing will continue and illegals can still make more here.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ed Reyes, Barstow Ca. — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:09:24 GMT

Folks, If you want to see all the Holywood personality in likes of Whoopy, Alec. B, Streisand, and If you to know the real meaning of "IS" go ahead and get Clinton in there, If you want real safety" and strong in Defense, We need Republicans....again... Look at both houses it is control by Democrat, Like Reagan said, I believe he said a Democrat run congress is a doo Nothing, Liberals congress, in like of Pelosi... and Reed, They all represent nothing... regards to defense...thats my take

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Amy B Portland, ME — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:09:58 GMT

Steve, you are right about Edwards giving the same answer as Hillary on the Stephanopoulous show. I remember thinking "what the...?" It's funny George just let it drop, no follow up question, like "how is what you said different than what Hillary said?" Edwards is a slick one, I must say...but think how he will un-man Giuliani!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ron Fl — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:10:11 GMT

We already have a card that tracks people who come to this country,it is called a green card or a visa for visitors. Why is that not mentioned when asked about security? I also don't buy the safety part of the argument, I sell insurance in an area with a large illegal population and they do not buy auto insurance, but they sure do drive cars and trucks. How will giving them a license to drive make the roads safer when they don't have proper insurance?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Traver — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:11:55 GMT

Psycic Mary- NO F*N way. U r Wrong.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mark Chicago, IL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:13:05 GMT

I heart the youtube generation. Bill CLinton could get away with not answering questions directly (i.e. lying) because the camera was not on him most of the time.This too shall pass must have been a mantra. Thanks god, there is youtube as the proof is in the pudding. Hillary Clinton avoids giving yes/no answers (as do a lot of politicians) as, I suspect, she is playing for the general too early. Dems and Hillary apologists wake up and send a democrat that can actually win the general election.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:13:37 GMT

Chris: I wrote a long post on this site earlier today, addressing the issue very directly. You may not like the answer but is an answer and it takes less than 30 seconds to read. If I can come up with something like that then I'm sure that Mark Penn, oops, I mean Hillary can come up with something of equal directness. Bubba/Bubbette, it's just not that hard, unless you've got something up your triangulating sleeve.
Obama '08

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Gary, Franklin, WI — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:14:06 GMT

To: Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA

You ranted:

YES OR NO!!!!!!!

ANSWER IT!!!!!!

ANSWER THE QUESTION!!!!

I GET BOTH SIDES OF THE ARGUMENT, I'M NOT STUPID, STOP EXPLAINING AND START ANSWERING.

My response:

Hillary has answered the question by saying that, at least until Congress passes comprehensive immigration legislation, the issue should be left to the States.

Why take an absolute position now until one knows what comprehensive federal immigration legislation is likely to include?

This whole debate has more to do with racial and ethnic intolerance than it does about immigration. Those opposing limited driver licensing to illegals prefer more people driving without licenses or driver training, something U.S. citizens themselves do at unacceptable rates. While I agree with Sen. Dodd that driving is a privledge, not a right, it is also critical to America's economic engine. If low wage jobs many Americans refuse to take were not a part of the U.S. economy, there would not be an "illegals" problem.

We could always round them all up, and warehouse them as we did in WWII among Japanese Americans! When we actually deport all 12 million or so, I'd love to know at what cost.

This nation is no longer the cradle of freedom, Reagan's "city on a hill", or the envy of the world. By our own actions, we are becoming the Cambodia of the 21st Century! Some much the pity!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

David, Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:14:19 GMT

all those "idot republicans" except maybe Gulliani would answer with "NO". You may not like their views, but at least they tell them. Drivers license is the next step towards giving them amnesty. When they go in to get their DL they should all be deported. Last time i checked, Illegal meant breaking the law. It means they shoudlnt be in this country. For all the crap people have to go through to get into this country legally (even just to visit). Isn't it kind of a giant slap in the face to them? To tell them that they have to get green cards and visa's and pay money and meet with people at the embassy to get back ground checks, while their neighbors who came illegally get off scotch free is pathetic. What a joke that this even has become an issue, send them home and make them try again LEGALLY. We don't need more criminals.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

MK,MO — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:18:03 GMT

Laurie, Manasquan, NJ / I like the idea of having some sort of document that tracks the whereabouts of illegals. Although most people don't condone the issuing of driver's licenses to illegals, it could be a different license than the one that citizens and residents receive and it could be used to track the illegals. It would be a good thing to know where they are and how many there are in any given community or state.

we already have a document to track immigration, it's called a green card, you get one when you enter the country correctly, if you don't have one you should be deported as current law states. there is no need for us to have another meaningless document.

this country would be better off deporting the illegal's, what we don't need is yet another incentive for them to sneak across the border, and don't believe the rubbish of 'it can't be done', we can wage war globally but we can't round up these criminals with-in our own borders and deport them? that’s ridiculous and just another cop out by the people who benefit financially from their presence.

why is it everyone thinks new laws concerning immigration will change anything when we ignore existing ones, the whole issue of controlling our population is a farce, and the taxpayer picks up the tab

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:23:27 GMT

Chris Penn,

Ok, any one of you named Chris Penn, answer that question in ***22 days.*** Now explain why Sen. Clinton is seemingly incapable of doing so. No extra credit points will be given for "broadly" answering the question, for "understanding" those who have to make it, and no extra credit points will be given for long-winded complaints about how the issue is "waaay tooo" complicated.

"she should have said she didn't know yet or is unsure what she would do at this point"

I think you should apply for a job as a debate prep coach for the Clinton campagin. That is, and would have been a pretty decent (and honest) answer if in fact she wasn't aware of the specifics in this policy proposal.

Can we please give up on the "30 seconds" meme? Any decently staffed and funded campaign (the Clinton campaign certainly qualifies as such) could have produced a doorstopper-sized policy/position paper on this.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rush Limbaugh — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:32:56 GMT

It is quite apparent that this question is to complex for Hillary to answer, and that is why America is not ready for a woman president.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:34:42 GMT

It only becomes complicated or nuanced when one is trying to avoid answering the question.
Obama '08
Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY (Sent Wednesday, November 07, 2007 1:28 PM)

Or when one has a more nuanced opinion on the matter. From where I am sitting, Obama seems to see most everything in black and white. Unfortunately, most things are shades of gray and deserve more than a 30-second yes or no answer.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:38:01 GMT

It is a YES or NO answer. You cannot have differant laws for illegals in differant states! They would all flock to the most advantage state and still be illegal! The double talk is giving me a headache as would listening to her for the next four more years! Get this inept person out.
Marsha, Fresno, CA (Sent Wednesday, November 07, 2007 1:51 PM)

With all due respect, different states have different laws about a great variety of things - marriage, crime, taxes, etc. Let's take the death penalty - Iowa does not have it. Does that mean someone is more likely to go to Iowa to kill someone because they won't get fried, whereas if they stay in TX they will certainly be hosed?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ron FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:41:57 GMT

If an illegal gets a DL issued in New York, could a cop in NJ arrest that person for driving without a valid drivers license,how would the police in Ct handle the situation, what about PA or Vt?

I believe that, although the issuance of a STATE drivers license is a state issue, would we now be involved in a federal isseue ie Interstate commerce and trade?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Real Democrat, CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:44:13 GMT

Hillary is such a fool...

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Yolanda, Largo, Maryland — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:50:19 GMT

I am convinced we are living in a world where people are allowed to simply not pay attention, and many people (and those who posts on this board are no exception), choose to do that!!!

Federal or state issue? That is not the point. The point is that Clinton was asked specifically about Spitzer's plan for NEW YORK. Now her supporters can talk about how complex this is from a federal perspective but that has nothing to do with the question and it is insulting when people try to make a simply "yes" or "no" question so difficult!!! What the hell do understanding what someone is trying to do? That does not answer the question. Her supporters are insinuating that she said "No" but she never flat out said that. The question is not asking about "states, in general", it is specifically asking about Spitzer's plan for New York!!!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

jerry/corpus christi texas — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:50:43 GMT

Jerry, if they had a driver’s license, then they could get insurance and you would not have to worry about them hitting your Dodge Ram Hemi pickup truck down there in Corpus Christi. Anyway I thought you lost your daytime talk radio show job yesterday, so why would you still be posting here? Can you make a living on the comedy circuit yet? Did not think that the occasional local comedy nightspot paid enough to support your family.
TEC-Spring-Tx (Sent Wednesday, November 07, 2007 1:49 PM)

let's take this one at a time TEC:

1. It is illegal for someone to be in this country if they sneaked across, so that goes to show what a bunch of morons liberals are if they think that insurance for a bunch of river jumpers will solve the problem.........

2. I used to drive dodges for years, but the air conditioning always goes out, so now I drive a foreign made car. And you wonder why American workers are losing their jobs in Detroit????

3. I could replace randi Rhodes on Air America. I would probably get them out of bankruptcy and actually having something to talk about instead of a bunch of diaper wearing whining liberals. You know liberals aren't worth listening to when Air America is replaced by mexican music..........

4. Comedy? I've done a few comedy shows, won one
($100) and told some liberal jokes that would have had Bill Clinton fight me on stage. If any TV shows want me to write for them while those worthless bums are marching in picket lines, call me!

Thank you
I'm here all week!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:54:37 GMT

Sorry Carrie that's just a crock. Hillary has a constant pattern of evasiveness and the reason that this story has legs is that the 'DL answer evasion' is just a caricature of her entire campaign. She was asked a simple question and only she and Edwards couldn't answer it directly. I refer you to my post from shortly after noon today and it summarizes in two paragraphs the essence of Governor Spitzer's proposal. You either support it or you don't. Nobody asked if she understood his motivations. We all understand the motivations. You either support it or you don't. Only a deceptive politician would equivocate with that one. It seems as if the electorate is waking up to that fact. When are politicians, especially the Clintons, going to realize that directness is the most valuable commodity that can be offered to the electorate? They'll allow you to be wrong. They'll even allow a little flip-flop, if you're able to communicate your reasons effectively. But evasiveness, that's just distasteful.
Obama '08

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Laurie, Manasquan, NJ — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:04:11 GMT

MK-MO - I too would prefer that illegals be deported. However, our elected representatives and I use that word loosely, won't do that because they are in the pockets of the corporations who survive off the cheap labor. Absent a large scale deportation, I don't think it's a bad idea to track the whereabouts of illegals in each state. It would definitely make it easier to deport them if their whereabouts were known to the authorities. We are in a similar situation to that which occured prior to the civil war. Slaves were the lifeblood of the Southern economy and there was no political will to end the practice. Unfortunately, if illegals are allowed to continue to flood this country in the numbers that have been coming in, we could find ourselves with a similar "civil war" situation on our hands.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Lee in CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:07:35 GMT

"That notwithstanding, at least the Bush administration and family haven’t subjected this country to the disgraceful scandals, cheating and lying that this country was forced to endure during the Clinton’s stay in the White House"

Oh God! Rove - haven't you got another job?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Laurie, Manasquan, NJ — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:10:42 GMT

Hey Jerry, you couldn't fill Rhandi Rhodes' shoes if you tried for the rest of your life. She could squash you like a bug in 30 seconds flat. You can only dream of having 1/10th the talent or political insight she has. You give yourself way too much credit. I guess that's what happens when you let arogance get in the way of reality.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Bubab — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:17:36 GMT

This is a bunch of B.S. ! Ye bull s--T !

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Danny Campbell, Oak Park MI — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:26:14 GMT

I don't see anything inappropriate with Hillary's response. Personally, I'm against most forms of 'amnesty' for illegal immigrants - but I also recognize the complexity of the issue and care enough about ACTUALLY SOLVING IT to be flexible in the approach [if some form of amnesty is part of the eventual compromise, so be it, if it means we fix the problem]. However, this is an issue for CONGRESS to solve and the issuance of driver licenses at the state level is nothing more than a 'red herring' in the debate.

What amazes me with the anti-Clinton voices, is that no other Democrat on the stage [of the last debate]was subjected to the scrutiny on the issue that she was. It's an obvious bias against her for being the front-runner. Just the other night, I heard George Stephanopulous (sp?) ask Edwards about his position and it was even more confusing than Hillary's. Where's that story in the press? Hmmm???

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rick, WS, NC — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:26:26 GMT

We get it...dems want to legalized illegals and reps want to round them up and waterboard them...after the crops are in and the den is cleaned of course...

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Bee — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:27:06 GMT

Or when one has a more nuanced opinion on the matter. From where I am sitting, Obama seems to see most everything in black and white. Unfortunately, most things are shades of gray and deserve more than a 30-second yes or no answer

Carrie
-------------------------------------------------
Please give me a break!! Obama's answer is spot on. We can debate about his position but we all know where he stand on the issues.

I know it is hard for politician like Clintons to answer question in a straight forward manner because they are used to lieing every time and they don't want to get caught.

As for Obama, i appreciate his honesty when answering question. Enough of nuance that makes the so called politician looks pathetic e.g. Hillary Clinton

The issue of drivers' licence for 12 million illigal immigrant is simple. It is either you support it or not. No nuance, please.

If Hillat does support it, why? If she doesn't, then say it out loud and clear. Obama said he supported it because of plublic safety issues and he challenge any body to debate him on that. What say you madame Clinton?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:28:25 GMT

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Bruce, NV — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:32:28 GMT

Enforcement first.

Fine/jail those who hire illegals. No benefits paid by the govt. Secure the border.

Then, and only then, shall we discuss "paths to citizenship", a/k/a amnesty.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ron FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:33:43 GMT

Yolanda, giving a drivers license to an illegal in NY or any state should NOT happen. No,do NOT give them a license.It is a simple question to answer,why Hillary won't thats up for debate. But this becomes a federal issue the minute the law is put in place.Valid drivers licenses do reciprocate, would these licenses be valid in other states, would some states decide yes and some say no? Maybe Governor Spitzer should have thought about this before he decided he could fix the immigration problems.
And please dont EVER think I am a supporter of Hillary the only democrat I ever voted for was Sen. Lieberman(I)d CT. before he became an independant.

Jerry if you go on tour will you be visiting the Tampa area?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

jerry/corpus christi texas — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:38:54 GMT

Merle:

We all know what your girl said (or didn't say). If she had enough smarts to answer the question without going man crazy on Tim Russert we wouldn't be having this debate. Tell your girl to smarten up and answer the questions.

Laurie in NJ.....

At least I can walk down the street without falling and busting my teeth to pieces.....

Randi Rhodes just might be good....
If she was on a radio station that could be heard!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

MK,MO — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:39:30 GMT

Laurie, Manasquan, NJ / very good points, it is obvious the powers that be don't intend to address the issue in any meaningful manner, they just continue spewing meaningless rhetoric, eventually enough people will be personally effected negatively by the illegal invasion to take matters into their own hands to protect person and property, then things will become very ugly, if that's what it takes so be it

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Adam Columbus OH — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:44:25 GMT

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY

"She originally said she supported Spitzer here in NY, and she understands the complexity of the problem."

Which would be wonderful if that was the question asked, but it wasn't. The question was about the **policy** and whether or not she supported that policy, not whether she "broadly" supported the goal Spitzer was trying to accomplish via that policy, or whether the issue was complex. If she couldn't fashion an answer to that question in the time allotted, why could Sen. Obama do precisely that in the space of a few seconds? And why has she been unable to fashion an answer, again, on the **policy proposal** in question, in the weeks since that debate?

"What's so unclear about that?"

Nothing at all. That she hasn't answered the question 3 weeks on is crystal clear to a great many voters.

"Seems to me Mr. Obama and his neo-con freinds have gotten enough mileage out of this one."

One, and only on of the Democratic Senators running for POTUS voted with Lieberman, Kyl, most Republicans, etc, on the IRGC vote. Neo-con indeed.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Eddie Hamlton — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:45:25 GMT

Hey Jerry, you couldn't fill Rhandi Rhodes' shoes if you tried for the rest of your life. - Laurie, Manasquan, NJ

For sure. Randi wears, what, a size 18? EEE. She's a big girl.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

MK,MO — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:46:03 GMT

Rick, WS, NC / 'We get it...dems want to legalized illegals and reps want to round them up and waterboard them...after the crops are in and the den is cleaned of course...'

not true rick, most dems think illegal immigration should be confronted quite forcefully, it is an old repub wives tail that dems in general are pro-amnesty and for uncontrolled immigration, although most non-hillary backers are against the water-boarding dealyo

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

charles hayden chapel hill tn — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:46:33 GMT

hillary has a lot of double talk about ima. we will have higher taxes and health care cos

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

MK,MO — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 20:54:26 GMT

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY / 'She originally said she supported Spitzer here in NY'

correct j, but that was before she was against it at the debate. What's so unclear about that?

the only 'clear' thing about hillary is the fact she remains consistently 'un-clear'. sorry

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Fernando Palm Coast, FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:00:42 GMT

She does not answer because she knows you wont' like her answer , wake up people Vladimir would eat this woman alive.

Obama 08

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

mike, dallas, tx — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:00:52 GMT

Where is Van?

When you don't see Van on a Hillary topic you know it is terrible time in Camp Hillary and they have ran out of excuses and explanations. Unless Van is writing in another pen name.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Paige, Richmond, VA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:04:55 GMT

You don't like Bush? OK we get it...but now we can have a fresh start with a new president and that means putting someone in office who will EARN it. Dancing and weaving is not good enough for us, we deserve a president that is assertive, efficient, and intelligent. We shouldn't care if they are male or female, we should unanimously agree that we are not going to put up with someone who will not do their job. And we all know that Hillary has NEVER been a big supporter of states rights, so why all of a sudden is she so concerned with them?....OH yea, because it gives her an out. She doesn't want to answer questions because her answers are not what the majority of American people agree with.
These are the red flags of someone who is not well equipped to do a good job for us. She does a good job at the politicing, let's face it, she's tough, but in a twisted kind of a way. It's too bad she puts her strength into being a back ally politician instead of being a strong sincere candidate.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

TJB, scottsdale — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:05:12 GMT

To those “teachers” and people who have commented about my “facts” regarding Hillary…I imagine to some they are upsetting, probably more so, if you think she’s anything more than what she is.

No, I haven’t been out of the country, or in a coma and I’m well aware of this country’s governmental dilemma’s. I just don’t feel that blindly replacing a negative, with another known negative is what this country needs.

If you recall, after eight years of the Clinton’s tabloid riddled administration, the country was more than ready for a change. They started in scandal, ended in scandal and what scandal they didn’t bring with them to the White House, they created while they were there.

As stated earlier, I feel that George Bush is an abomination as President and if given a good chance he might still work himself up to some Articles of Impeachment. But, his actions, governing methods, inabilities, however despicable, won’t alter the facts regarding the Clintons. They have shown as a couple and individually, that they’re just playing in a different scandal league than George and Laura….Because, quite simply, the Bush’s, as a couple, or individually, don’t have any scandals in office to the match the Clinton’s resume.

Clinton Presidency Bush presidency
Major Scandals in office Major Scandals in Office

Major Sex Scandal 0
President Subpoenaed by Grand Jury 0
First lady Subpoenaed by Grand Jury 0
Grand Jury Perjury - President 0
Articles of Impeachment 0
Aide’s Suicide 0

Scandals brought into office

Sex Scandals 0
Real Estate Scandals 0
Law Firm Scandals 0

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

chris — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:17:59 GMT

I am surprised when I see so much focus on immigration.Have democrats not learnt ANYTHING from yesterdays Virgnia elections. Here is washington post analysis.

In the Ballot Booths, No Fixation on Immigration

By Amy Gardner
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, November 7, 2007; Page A01

Voters across Virginia chose candidates in state and local elections yesterday not out of anger over illegal immigration but based on party affiliation, a preference for moderation and strong views on such key issues as residential growth and traffic congestion.

With a few notable exceptions, the trend benefited Democrats and not those who campaigned the loudest for tough sanctions against illegal immigrants.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

BIGOLDTEXAN — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:23:59 GMT

Has anyone noticed that every once in awhile, every so slightly, the REAL Hillary Clinton peeks out?

The truth is that Hillary is just another candidate that the American people should question. Does the country need a Bush, a Clinton, Bush, then another Clinton? Seriously, please no more Dynasties.

To be sure, she has never had any shame about making stories up out of thin air. After 9/11, Clinton appeared on national TV and claimed that when the two airplanes hit the World Trade Center, her daughter Chelsea was going to jog at Battery Park near the towers, where she heard and saw the catastrophe unfold.
Clinton’s arrogance was so profound that she did not coordinate the story with Chelsea, who wrote an article for Talk in which she described what she had been doing that day. According to Chelsea, she was on the other side of town in a friend’s apartment on Park Avenue South. She watched the events unfold on TV.

If she wonders why people are asking her these questions its because we want answers.

Well this shows what we all know, that Hillary clearly has no baggage or issues. Right?

Giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants
is not what we need at this time.

One question that has been bothering me is, if the government knows that this country has the numbers that they are reporting on illegal immigrants plaguing the U.S. cities, then why want they just round them up and weed out whom they think should be here?
Giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants
is not the way to go. Wouldn`t they have to pass a driving test as each of us has done to get our licenses?

They do not pay into our social security system and those that do are doing so with stolen social security numbers.
I must say that they have waited way too long to do something about this issue.
Once the presidental election is over I`m sure that it will slip thru the cracks again as always.

Dumb....Dumb....Dumb!!!!!!

NO MORE BUSHS/CLINTONS................End This War!!
NO MORE REPUBLICANS/CLINTONS..........End This War!!

Best Ticket: OBAMA/EDWARDS '08

OBAMA/EDWARDS '08

NO MORE BUSHS/CLINTONS................End This War!!
NO MORE REPUBLICANS/CLINTONS..........End This War!!

OBAMA/EDWARDS '08...............Yeah Baby!!!!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Oren, San Antonio, TX — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:29:46 GMT

I don't exactly understand why everyone has a hard time deciphering what she said. Her answer has been consistent throughout. No matter how many times she's asked she always seems to be basically saying the same exact thing:

#1 she understands why the governor is doing what he is doing.
a) He has a lack of options.
b) It keeps people from driving without a license
which allows them to get insurance to protect
other drivers on the road
c) It gets people out of the shadows so illegals
can be identified
#2 She realizes that the federal gov't has failed the states and now they have to come up with their own ideas on the state level.
#3 Though she doesn't agree with the policy %100, she understands why he's doing it and supports his ability to try and put it into effect.

She says it over and over again. I guess people just want to find something wrong so they have to make a non-issue an issue. Read the quotes above, she keeps saying the same thing.

Why does a person either have to be %100 for or %100 against? I can look at an issue and say "I can see where you are coming from and why you are doing this. I might not do it that way myself, but that doesn't make what you're doing bad or wrong, just different."

People need to get a grip.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:31:51 GMT

GARY,

If her response was so clear why is everyone still talking about it?

HRC could have said:
"I understand and respect Gov. Spitzer's position but I do not support giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants."

It is not so hard. Stop drinking the Kool-Aid.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Gary, Franklin, WI — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:41:17 GMT

To: Ron FL

You are referring to the Commerce Clause, which states:

Article I, Section 8, Clause 3:

"The Congress shall have power . . . To regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian tribes;"

The use of the Commerce Clause by Congress to justify its legislative power has been the subject of long, intense political controversy. Interpretation of the sixteen words of the Commerce Clause has helped define the balance of power between the federal government and the states. As such, it has a direct impact on the lives of US citizens.

The Commerce Clause is an important source of those powers delegated to Congress, and therefore its interpretation is very important in determining the scope of federal power in controlling innumerable aspects of American life.

Also important is the Tenth Amendment which states that the federal government of the United States has only the powers specifically delegated to it by the Constitution. Other powers are reserved to the states, or to the people.

But in answer to your main question:

"If an illegal gets a DL issued in New York, could a cop in NJ arrest that person for driving without a valid drivers license, how would the police in Ct handle the situation, what about PA or Vt?"

The simple answer is NO. You live in a republic called the UNITED States of America. The issuance of a drivers license in one state, must be accepted as valid by other states. That power resides with the state of residence (where you live). Different states can have different policies on issuing driver licenses, but you do not lose driving privledges when crossing state lines. Should you change your state of residence, your driving privledges may end.

However, the full legal questions are more complex.

The Privileges and Immunities Clause of the United States Constitution says, "The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States."

In the case of Paul v. Virginia, 75 U.S. 168 (1868), the U.S. Supreme Court said that this clause implies a "right of free ingress into other States, and egress from them."

Also, in Kent v. Dulles, 357 U.S. 116 (1958), Justice William O. Douglas wrote for the Court as follows:

The right to travel is a part of the 'liberty' of which the citizen cannot be deprived without due process of law under the Fifth Amendment. If that "liberty" is to be regulated, it must be pursuant to the law-making functions of the Congress. . . . . Freedom of movement across frontiers in either direction, and inside frontiers as well, was a part of our heritage. Travel abroad, like travel within the country, . . . may be as close to the heart of the individual as the choice of what he eats, or wears, or reads. Freedom of movement is basic in our scheme of values.

The U.S. Supreme Court also dealt with the right to travel in the case of Saenz v. Roe, 526 U.S. 489 (1999). In that case, Justice John Paul Stevens, writing for the majority, held that the United States Constitution protected three separate aspects of the right to travel among the states: the right to enter one state and leave another, the right to be treated as a welcome visitor rather than a hostile stranger (protected by the Privileges and Immunities Clause in Article IV, § 2), and for those who become permanent residents of a state, the right to be treated equally to native born citizens (this is protected by the 14th Amendment Citizenship Clause).

In the United States, even illegal immigrants are entitled to due process of law. That is something that separates the U.S. from many other nations, and should be viewed as strength, not weakness when comparing human values. The last thing we need is a Guantanamo on U.S. soil!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Me — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:41:49 GMT

Anyone who attends law school, like HC, is rendered completely incapable upon completing any law school curriculum of answering any question with yes or no

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Stella Rose , Taylors,SC — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:46:37 GMT

Daniel Elliot ---
Yes Hillary puts her finger to the wind to see what the polls say - They say if she agrees with Spitzer she will lose the immigration reform people and if she opposes Spitzer she will lose the Latino and left vote so she decides to treat Americans as if they are dumb . She plays her Lawyer role and talks about how complex it is and wants to see both sides - weel see both sides but come up with answer yes or no . You don't havew to be a genius to say aye or nay

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Me — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:46:42 GMT

HC was asked a very specific question about a specific program proposed for the state she is supposed to represent! Moreover, she was asked for HER position not whether she understands Spitzer's motivations, or feelings or other warm-fuzzy BS.

Surely as a a NY senator she has reviewed the program and knows exactly where she stands on this policy that concerns an issue that is very very important to the American people.

As evidence of the importance of this issue, I would point to the Immigration Reform debacle that occurred earlier this year in the Senate, when so many enraged voters called to express themselves that the phone system crashed!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:46:58 GMT

I'm bored with this discussion. My mind will not change, and neither will the minds of those who disagree with me change. So in the interest of not beating my head against a wall, and to save that poor horse that has been lying dead in the middle of the floor for many days now any further mutilation, I am done discussing this issue.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

NANDO PALM COAST, FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:48:03 GMT

The Clintonia Camp will have a wake up call come JAN 3, Take my word on this one , They can't stop this mudslide ,to Democrats you better get on the Obama Edwards Train now , They will eat her alive on this issue in a General election. Rudy is licking his chops on this one and the Evangelicals are just getting warmed up !!! if you dont want 8 more years of pure garbage . Back OBAMA/ EDWARDS in 08, HILLARY will not win a general election .

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Ravine Force, Kissimmee, FL — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:55:44 GMT

There is another misconception floating around, and that is that if any candidate takes a stand against inmigration it will alineate Latinos, as if all Latinos were Mexicans or illegal citizens. Cubans are here legally and they vote, Puerto Ricans are citizens and they vote. A large number of Mexicans; as well as Central and South Americans do not have the right to vote. I believe we are making a huge mistake when we group all Latinos into one category.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Don Larson, Des Moines, Iowa — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:57:21 GMT

She NEVER answers a question she doesn't want to.

She simply looks at who ask the question with a "How dare you" look then calls the reporter by there first name and proceeds to NEVER answer the question. And the reporter usually backs off and it all goes away.

Just like this will all go away so long as she doesn't answer.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Freeman Female, Dallas, TX — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 22:10:26 GMT

Van has disappeared. I challenged him last week to publish the post-debate poll results and he has not done that in any type of way like he did in the past.

Yesterday he was watching the The Bee Movie for most of the day. Today he is probably watchning a C movie.

Like C Clinton losing Ground Movie
or

Like C Freeman I C not another winning poll movie.
or
Like C U Later Clinton Movie

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Gary, Franklin, WI — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 22:21:23 GMT

LIZ dear,

I don't know why "everyone" is still talking about it. The only reason I am commenting at all is my disbelief in how many in the web blog elite seem to have realized (for the first time, apparently) that politician's prefer evading having to answer loaded questions, especially during an election process! Will wonders never cease?

In addition, I sometimes wonder who is the real candidate - Hillary Clinton or Tim Russert?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Charles, Tucson, Arizona — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 22:28:29 GMT

"Wake up people. If you want a Democrat in office, you better start supporting Hillary."

It's that brand of myopic thinking that got us 7 years of an idiotic president with an even more idiotic foreign policy. I seem to recall hearing in the 2004 election that America had better vote Republican if they wanted to be safe because Al Qaeda was hiding under someone's doorstep in Des Moines, Iowa preparing to take away their freedom to drive a pick-up truck, listen to country music, and to quote George Orwell, rattle their chains while they scream "I'm free! I'm free", and what we got was four more years of Bush.

I hope none of you will simply vote for Hillary because "We need a Democrat" in the White House. Vote for her if you agree with her positions or vote for another candidate. I personally voted for Howard Dean in the primary even though it was a known fact at that point that he would not win the nomination.

So please, at least in the primary, vote for the candidate that best exspouses your views, not the bandwagon front-runner because you want to be on the winning team. Save party line voting for the general election because at that point, I'd even that Dennis K. over the entire Republican field sans perhaps ROn Paul (the lone noteworthy Republican with a shred of independent thought left).

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

John S. Alexander,Edinboro, PA — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 22:38:20 GMT

I was amazed at all the rants on this question but I do want to thank Gary from Franklin for his edifying post. TJB, WAR FOR OIL DUMMY!!!!!!!
I take personal scandal over lying about where terrorists are, changing the reason for war, kidding about finding WMD under the desk, need we go on, this thread is dead.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Not Either Party, Texas — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 22:52:30 GMT

Immigration is the issue. The Fed policy is a mystery - why the open borders during a war? When we though there was a real threat. Why major candidates who avoid the topic and discussion of the stop-gap solutions? Because they need a crisis in order to grow more power for their offices. The last statements in the article are the most surprising...."if they ever committed a crime where they came from or here, immediately deport them. But for the others, have a tough path to earned legalization. Pay back taxes. Pay fines. Learn English. Wait in line. And once you got somebody on the record registered, deported the criminals, instead they had to keep on the right side of the law, keep making a living..." This speaks to the real issues. I detest Hillary for her real background. But that last bit; we'll see how willing she really is to alienate that base.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

david tulsa ok — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:19:52 GMT

all 19 hijackers had drivers licenses....almost half were registered to vote......if we want a repeat of 9/11 ....just keep doing the stupid stuff we are doing......of course Mrs. Clinton may want the illegals to get the licenses and register to vote.....chances are illegals registered to vote will decide who is elected in NY state in the future.... After 9/11 people asked how this could happen......why were these hijackers not stopped... after the next attack will the surviors hold Gov Spitzer and Mrs. Clinter responsible?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Dan, California — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:20:19 GMT

I'm losing faith that Clinton is the right choice. Edwards is looking BETTER.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rich San Diego, CA — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:21:08 GMT

Listen,

ALL of these people dissemble for a LIVING! Get real. Hillary's job is to get elected. Any answer to the question of illeagle immigration is going to alienate a large portion of the electorate.
She would be a great President. Smart.... She already knows most world leaders, she's a tough cookie... which is just what we need after all these years.
I really hate to see her win... the damage that needs to be mended would tax anyone. Put another Republican in the office and let them deal with what they hath wrought.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Reed, Eugene, Or — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:23:44 GMT

Motor Voter. Only a signature stating citizinship required in NY. Nuf said.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Fred Hogaboom, Granby, Ct. — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:25:15 GMT

Just more of Washington double speak. She will not do anything to upset the Spanish vote.

America is becoming like England, monarchy versus a democratic government. Just look back, Clintons or a Bush for the last what, 15, 20 years. And now another Clinton, possible worst than the last one.

Trying to get a complete answer from ANY politician is impossible. They do no know how to answer a question directly and Hillary is no exception.
Look at President Bush, Without a writtn speech he would be lost. He can't put together sentences as it is.

I fault the media for the lack of tough questioning and insisting the candidates answer the questions completely. I believe most are afraid the candidates will refuse to give them the time of day or appear on various talk shows.

Get tough, if the candidate does not like it,let them walk out on the interview. How can we expect them to face the tough job of running the country when they are afraid of facing the voters or a sesion of tough questions.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

suzzie q — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:27:34 GMT

Clinton couldn't give you a straight answer if she had to. We've known for years who wears the pants in that family and it sure has never been bill. We may need and want a woman in the White House but not her. She says that President Bush is bad but to put her in office is just plain wrong, wrong, wrong. I wouldn't vote for her if she were the only person running.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Dumbfounded, Gilbert, AZ — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:31:20 GMT

All I keep hearing is the failure of this administration to pass a comprehensive immigration reform. Explain, Senator Clinton, how it has anything to do with the administration. if my memory serves, the body that failed to create a comprehensive immigration reform bill was the Senate, body of which you are a member.

Can we answer the question or at least while skirting keep the facts straight!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Patrick Peavy, Plano TX — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:31:24 GMT

I understand the criticism but I fail to see how this one issue is a defining moment in a campaign.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

KAM, Clovis, CA — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:33:26 GMT

You know, every time I get out there and try to read about some election issues I'm reminded why I no longer participate in the process - Democrats, Republicans, media, all the BS above... I can't beleive how much time has been spent on a non-presidential issue. I think I'll go for a nice long hike on election day.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Michel, Los Angeles — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:35:53 GMT

Duh what don’t you understand?
What she said is it is not a black or white, yes or no issue and furthermore it is ultimately for the sates to decide. A driver’s license comes from THE STATE. not the federal government.
It may be necessary depending on the situation since we have no current plan for comprehensive immigration reform.
I am so relieved that she does not think in the Bush good v. evil, black or white, you’re either with us or with the enemy mentality. Finally, a future president who actually thinks through the complexities of an issue. The media is trying to make this an issue, to undermine her; she has stated her position! Move on!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Joe, Anaheim, CA — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:39:49 GMT

Ms. Clinton,

I understand that various issues can be complex -- immigration, abortion, taxes, judicial nominees, war, terrorism, etc. But at the end of the day, when all is said and done, when everything has been looked at up and down and sideways, A DECISION NEEDS TO BE MADE -- YES OR NO, GO or NO GO, UP OR DOWN, SIGN OR VETO, etc.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Geoff cincinnati Ohio — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:44:33 GMT

The real point here is that Hillary buckles under pressure when asked to take a stand on an issue. What about the Economy. Hmm... she has not made a stand. How about giving your platform like all the others and sticking to it. You can't make everyone happy.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

sarainitaly — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:45:46 GMT

TJB - "That notwithstanding, at least the Bush administration and family haven’t subjected this country to the disgraceful scandals, cheating and lying that this country was forced to endure..."

You lost me after this complete and utter lie. This Bush family and administration have done more to ruin this country then any other in history. Do you even KNOW the history of the Bush family?

Have you been following the scandal after scandal after scandal that this president and administration have committed the last seven years? We are torturing, wiretapping, imprisoning, killing innocents, fighting a fraudulent war, and our soldiers are dying and lacking proper armor, and health care. They are stomping on the constitution, waging more wars, authorizing bid contracts to friends, and have lost like $20+ billion dollars.

As for the Clintons, what have they been charged with? Bill got busted for lying about a blow job.

I'll take the bj any day. (wait, that came out wrong... haha) Anyway, hate away on Hillary all you want. But please SPARE us the comment that Bush hasn't caused any scandals. He has done far, far worse then any Clinton has ever done.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

JT Smith, Reno NV — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:46:19 GMT

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Sean, Torrington CT — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:46:24 GMT

She can't be any worse than the Clown currently in office, and since I've sworn off Republicans for 20 years since they lied about the causes for an optional war and then screwed the whole thing up anyway, it looks like Hill-Dawg in 2008!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

David, Long Beach, California — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:51:22 GMT

Licenses for illegals would be a more important question if we had a national drivers license. I do believe it's up to the governors of the states. Hillary Clinton's not dodging the question. She's giving an intelligent response, imho. Like it or not, illegals do drive. Sptizer is right in trying to document the drivers. Too bad most of us are too damn dumb to get it. If illegals want to get a USA passport, that's a different story....

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mike Brooks, Eugene, Oregon — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:02:44 GMT

Hillary Clinton is evasive and dishonest. When her poll numbers took a recent dive, she attributed it to a "Swift Boat" campaign on the part of other Democartic candidates, she alternately plays the poor downdrodden female card and the man hating redical feminst. Most of her more rabid supporters here and elsewhere are simply male bashing bigots and feminists wraped up in their blind desire for "power"...whatever that means. This Democart is planing on voting Republican. It's as simple as ABC - anybody but CLinton.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

James Kirby — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:15:52 GMT

How about just a plain and simple YES or NO.

C'mon, Hillary, we're not that stupid to buy your gobbledy-gook.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Jason, Ontario, California — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:24:36 GMT

Most national politicians try hard not to ever be locked into a yes or no answer. In this case, however, she would have been much better off just stating that she is either in favor or not in favor of licenses for illegal immigrants. If she believes a Federal solution is required and drivers licenses should not be given to illegal immigrants, than say it. She could even say "I understand Spitzer's position, but I don't agree with giving licenses to illegal immigrants.", and she still would have been fine. By simply refusing to be state an actual position, and if she continues down this path, Obama or Edwards will pass her up, which is good news.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

JJ, MN — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:28:21 GMT

Correct me if I'm wrong...but when you are on the witness stand and the attorney asks you a question...if he says he wants a "yes" or "no" answer, he doesn't give you the opportunity to say "maybe" or elaborate on your yes or no answer. I realize Hillary's not on the witness stand, but she surely should understand the concept!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Roger, Herlong, CA — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:29:13 GMT

There is no such thing as an "undocumented worker", period. What it is is illegal alien, and it doesn't change by using politically correct terms. Just a little bit of info, if all illegals were sent back to where they come from, greenhouse gases in the U.S. would drop by 11%. Over 400 billion dollars in taxes would be added in income taxes by legal taxpaying citizens. Over a billion dollars a year would be saved in our prisons. And it goes on and on. And what do we debate? Whether law breakers should have licenses? We are going the wrong way in this nation and there is a big voiced minority that thinks that it's the right way to go. Wake up America, we are losing our country!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Richard — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:39:01 GMT

If you think what Hillary will face in a general will be hell, then what about the obstacles that Obama would face. His failure to explain his answers on many of these key questions clearly and fully is going to open him to extremely damming attacks in the general election. He will meet with leaders of rougue nations will no conditions, but refuses to call out these rougue nations for their support of terrorism for fear of aleinating them. Not only is he is weak on Iran, and he is weak on immigration as well. He is thrilled that we are giving driver's licenses to illegal aliens because he doesn't have any problem with them being here and feels we ought to be facilitating their ability to come to this country in violation of our laws. That is the way his positions will be presented by the opposition in the general election. At which point he will have to clarify himself and he will then be accused of trying to have it both ways. Obama will be portrayed as someone who wants to invite Ahmadinejad over for dinner, but refuses to tow a tough line against him; and who wants to stand on the border and hand out licenses like candy. Not exactly a picture of electability. Hillary has answered this question. Her answer, like the issue itself is complex. If you want a president who doesn't do complexity you should keep the one you currently have.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rebekah Jensen Bel Air, MD — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:39:26 GMT

Hillary Clinton was correct in her answer. Immigration reform is a federal issue and issuing state driver's licenses in a state issue. Without a comprehensive Immigration bill the governor's are faced with trying to come up with a viable plan that help's identify all the people who are living and driving in their state.

Seems to me you've got a choice. Gov Spitzer can wait for the Federal Government to pass an immigration bill so he can come up with a driver's license plan that fits into the reform bill or he can go ahead and come up with a driver's license plan now that helps identify the people who are currently living and driving in New York; a plan that can be expanded into a Real ID card by 2009 for all those living in New York.

New York has already experienced 2 terrorist attacks. How important do you think it is that the Gov. try and come up with a way to identify who is living in the state in an effort to try and stop another attack?

Go check the social security Administration website. They already have three social security cards available for people who are living in the US. In the absence of a comprehensive immigration reform bill, maybe working with Homeland Security to come up with a driver's license plan isn't such a bad idea.
http://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/cards.htm
From the site:
We issue three types of Social Security cards. All cards show your name and Social Security number.

1. The first type of card shows your name and Social Security number and lets you work without restriction. We issue it to:
U.S. citizens; and

People lawfully admitted to the United States on a permanent basis.

2. The second type of card shows your name and number and notes, “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION.” We issue this type of card to people lawfully admitted to the United States on a temporary basis who have DHS authorization to work.

3. The third type of card shows your name and number and notes, “NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT.” We issue it to people from other countries:

Who are lawfully admitted to the United States without work authorization from DHS, but with a valid nonwork reason for needing a Social Security number; or

Who need a number because of a federal law requiring a Social Security number to get a benefit or service.
__________________________________________
It's my understanding that poll workers will be able to differentiate between the different driver's licenses by color. I give them more credit than some other people do and I think they are probably smart enough to figure out the color code.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Joe, Connecticut — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:50:15 GMT

Hillary should answer this question, plain and simple. Her behavior is indicative of a far deeper problem concerning her inability to lead. I personally will not vote for this person under any circumstance because of her waffling. What does she stand for?!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Jim - Elmsord, NY — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:50:49 GMT

Hillary keeps bashing Bush administration for this immigration issue. I suppose that when Bill was in office, there weren't any issues with illegal immigration that he could have solved.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Jim - Elmsford, NY — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:52:31 GMT

Please tell me how public safety will benefit from issuing licenses to illegal immigrants? Hillary mentions that they could end up in an accident. And how would them having a license make a difference?

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

BC07 — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 01:53:44 GMT

I don't understand what the hoopla is here.

Some issues are not just yes and no. This isn't one. She supports that Gov. Spitzer is trying to take action, to try something. She acknowledges that there was a failed effort to pass immigration reform in the Congress. She supports his action, but not the policy.

It's simple.

As for the Clinton years, I did well during the Clinton years. I think a lot of people did.

I support her.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Mark, Dunkirk, NY — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 02:00:17 GMT

More often than not, the early front runners never make it to the nomination. Hillary is very intelligent, I would never dispute it, she is just running the safest campaign on record. She also has to overcome those high negative ratings. This is not Swiftboating, what was done to Kerry was wrong, we may not like what he did when he came home from Vietnam, but he did but his butt on the line

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

dan baker, sherman, ct — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 02:01:42 GMT

Here we are!! Back at the good old double talk of politicians. A lot of words that SEEM to answer a question. But, in reality says absolutely nothing!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Angelo Mancuso — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 02:28:10 GMT

Politicians and Americans for that matter should take a look at "American Harvest." Its a non-partisan feature length documentary about immigration as it relates to agriculture. It presents the facts as they are without political bias.

www.americanharvestmovie.com

American Harvest Synopsis

Anti-immigration sentiment sweeps across America. A journey from Florida to New York, including a trip to the Mexican border, reveals the lives and issues of legal and illegal migrants and farmers working toward a better life. Is the immigration system in America flawed? Immigrants are dying to feed America.

American farmers and agriculture rely on immigrants to do jobs that Americans won’t do or feel that are simply beneath them. Some only see the problems in the news from the perspective of those extreme points of view of the left and the right side of our political system.

Discrimination of immigrants has existed in the United States since the English persecuted the Irish. It was once generally considered that if you were Greek or Southern Italian you were not white.

American Harvest points out the inconsistencies of the current policy on immigration. See the changing face of immigrant America as it relates to Agriculture.

Follow legal and illegal farm workers and the farmers caught in the middle of a flawed immigration policy.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

TJB, Scottsdale — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 03:27:19 GMT

John S from Edinboro.....

WAR FOR OIL, what a keen insight! You must be an executive!!....Is anyone disputing that premise....the short answer is , no?? I won't defend what can't be defended, which would be Bush's actions in office, this war (whatever the reasoning) and his myopic approach to administering the Office he holds ....

So, whether it be Bush with a WMD hidden under a desk (as you put it), or Clinton getting a BJ under a desk, they're both not fit for office....To that end, I want change, for the better, with the feeling that this country has had enough Bush's and Clintons, and their polarizing effects. you on the other hand, are obviously willing to accept a lesser level of moral disgust.....to replace an equally repulsive one.

With mindsets like yours, no wonder this country is falling apart....

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Dan Amana Iowa — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 06:14:26 GMT

I don't know what the big fuss is, I heard her answer a question on the subject Tuesday (Nov 6), she seemed quite clear on the subject. She wants to get illegals to come out of the shadows, wants to know who is here so we can check up on them and see if they commited a crime in their nation of origin, or here. Criminals would be expelled, others would have to abide by laws, pay taxes and go though the paperwork to become legal. Her reform plan would have 4 points 1) Close Borders, 2) Crackdown on employers (seems kinda' contridictory to having them stay and be good "citizens" while they do the paperwork to become legal if you punish the people who give them jobs, but I'm not a lawyer) 3) Help communitees burdoned by great numbers of illegals. 4) Help counties of origin create new jobs so those poor people can stay where they really want to be---with their families (Hmmm..NAFDA on steroids) Trust me, it was what she said, I was writing the story for my weekly newsletter and didn't trust my notes, so I called two more people that were at the event and they confermed my notes. It also seemed to two of us that it was a "planted question" much like Bush's town meetings in 2004.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Angelo Mancuso, Rochester NY — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 10:31:32 GMT

Politicians and Americans for that matter should take a look at "American Harvest." Its a non-partisan feature length documentary about immigration as it relates to agriculture. It presents the facts as they are without political bias.

http://www.americanharvestmovie.com

American Harvest Synopsis

Anti-immigration sentiment sweeps across America. A journey from Florida to New York, including a trip to the Mexican border, reveals the lives and issues of legal and illegal migrants and farmers working toward a better life. Is the immigration system in America flawed? Immigrants are dying to feed America.

American farmers and agriculture rely on immigrants to do jobs that Americans won't do or feel that are simply beneath them. Some only see the problems in the news from the perspective of those extreme points of view of the left and the right side of our political system.

Discrimination of immigrants has existed in the United States since the English persecuted the Irish. It was once generally considered that if you were Greek or Southern Italian you were not white.

American Harvest points out the inconsistencies of the current policy on immigration. See the changing face of immigrant America as it relates to Agriculture.

Follow legal and illegal farm workers and the farmers caught in the middle of a flawed immigration policy.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

walter oechsle, sudbury, ma — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 12:41:22 GMT

why can't the clintons just get out of our lives. haveen't we had enough of their 'public service'/

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Support — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 15:41:46 GMT

Please give me a break!! HILLARY'S answer is spot on. We can debate about her position but we all know where she stands on all the issues.

I know it is hard for politician like Obama to answer question in a straight forward manner because they are used to lieing every time and they don't want to get caught.

As for Hillary, I appreciate her honesty when answering question. Enough of nuance that makes the so called politician looks pathetic e.g. Barrack Obama.

The issue of drivers' licence for 12 million illegal immigrant is simple. It is either you support it or not. No nuance, please.

If Obama does support it, why? If he doesn't, then say it out loud and clear. Obama said he supported it because of public safety issues and he challenge any body to debate him on that. Hillary said the same before Obama.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

H P Boston — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 15:56:48 GMT

This is getting ridiculous. Hillary never said she was in favor of giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. She never changed her position on the issue either.
She originally said she supported Spitzer here in NY, and she understands the complexity of the problem.
What's so unclear about that?
Seems to me Mr. Obama and his neocon friends have gotten enough mileage out of this one.

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Wednesday, November 07, 2007 3:28 PM)

-----------------------------------------------------
Yes J. Merle that is exactly what she said but it has become a twisted rhetoric of the media frenzy.
There are issues that are DEADLY serious but the Obama camp and the news media want to spin on lies and innuendos.
Senator Clinton has them so afraid they get hyper and snatch any little thing they think will stick!
Some of the trolls and hired guns on here sound like broken records and dumb from their own dumbing down.
Sad little people who like torture as an American pass time.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Larry Crawford, Morris IL — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 16:41:01 GMT

There are issues that are DEADLY serious but the Obama camp and the news media want to spin on lies and innuendos.

We just had an ex-Governor go to jail because his administration gave licenses to illegals for political kick backs. One of the illegals was driving a big rig that had a piece of metal hanging off its trailer. Other drivers tried to communicate this fact to the driver, but because he didn't understand english, he didn't heed the warnings. The metal fell off and hit a van with 2 adults and 6 children in it. The van exploded burning to death the six kids.

So Hillary gets questioned about this deadly serious issue, and she balks at it. Doesn't want to answer it because she needs the immigrant vote to win and doesn't want to offend anyone. But, this is a deadly serious issue that needs an answer. Hillary of course dodges the question.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Danny Campbell, Oak Park MI — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 17:24:19 GMT

Larry: And, please explain how not giving someone a drivers license (regardless of their immigrant status) would change that story. Some of you here are pretending that not granting a drivers license somehow keeps people off the streets. That's incredibly naive.

Hillary did not dodge the question...and her position on the importance of comprehensive immigration policy is well known if people want to spend the time researching it. I agree with her husband that not all answers deserve a YES or NO response. And, a good negotiator knows this. I was once asked if I was "anti-war" (YES or NO?). I refused to answer that way. I believe WWII was necessary, I supported the first Iraq/Kuwait war, was against Vietnam and I don't support the current war in Iraq. If we want to learn about candidates, we can't allow the media to try to pigeon-hole their positions. Frankly, if we (as Americans) can't see the wisdom in that -- and we are going to fall for these media tactics, we will continue to allow large media outlets and corporations to run our political system. I think we deserve more of ourselves.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rebecca Giumarra, Berlin, NY — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 02:57:04 GMT

Senator Clinton should be made to listen to a recording of what she says. She probably won't even believe it either.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Rebecca, Berlin, NY — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 03:02:24 GMT

In case Gov. Spitzer hasn't had the opportunity to look up the definition of illegal, here it is in the Webster's New World Dictionary: illegal - not lawful; against the law or against the rules. Hope this helps, Gov. Spitzer.

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Riteaidbob — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 04:07:54 GMT

I know! Why doesn't the lying "LIBERAL" witch come out and say the "illegals" should be rounded up and deported for breaking our LAWS!!!!!

Oh I'm sorry. She won't do that because she is a bleading heart LIBERAL!

Hillary’s consistent non-answers

Carlton Lee, Singapore Tiong Bahru — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 01:34:54 GMT

She's a poll watcher just like hubby. No real substance, not imformed, no thought. The perfect Dem president.