Yesterday's debate

Lynne, Little Rock, Arkansas — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:44:17 GMT

Here is a Link to a post I thought very good from CNN Political Ticker-
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2007/12/14/oprah-getting-backlash-from-some-fans-for-obama-support/

Here is some of the content;

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Oprah Winfrey's recent campaign swing with Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama was greeted with wild cheers and record-breaking crowds.

But some of the talk show host's fans aren't happy she's become politically outspoken, and many are sounding off on Oprah's Web site.

"Oprah," says one, "count me as tuned out for now." Another writes, "It's a real turn off for a lot of your fans." And yet another says "She has crossed a line and lost my trust completely."

But, what's especially interesting about reading Oprah's Web site is why some of those fans seem to be upset: the way she stumped for Obama, they say, seemed to pit white against black.

"I've been inspired to believe that a new vision is possible for America,"
Oprah said while on the stump with Obama in South Carolina. "Dr. King dreamed the dream, we get to vote that dream into reality."

Back on Oprah's Web site, one commenter wrote, "Winfrey has artfully begun her stump speeches alongside Obama with a negative racial tone."

And another commenter wrote, "Don't pit blacks against whites."

Interviewed on ABC's Good Morning America Wednesday, Winfrey rejected the notion she is supporting Obama merely because he is black.

"I get a little..I guess the word is 'offended,'" Winfrey said. "To think that I would be supporting someone just because of their skin would mean we haven't moved far from Dr. King's speech in 1963, where he said we should be judged by the content of our character not the color of their skin."

SOOOOOOOOOOO TRUE - Pitting Black against White is what they did - It won't work here in America Double O's

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jerry/corpus christi texas — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:46:43 GMT

Strategists fear that voters could be turned off by an increasingly negative tone in the campaign.”

Then I suggest Hillary disband her Media matters, uh I mean her dirt digging team....

Obama, showing muted energy, talked wistfully of having less than two hours to buy a Christmas tree and trim it with his two young daughters. He raised the question of whether the personal sacrifice of campaigning was worth it -- without answering his own query."

You wonder sometimes if it worth it as well.....
spending hundreds of millions of dollars and all that time to run for a job that lasts four years, has people mad as hell or happy as heck at you, with no private time. Having everything from what you eat to what you wrote about in primary school. makes you wonder if the job is worth it.

And he was critical of his own paper’s format: ”Another problem with Thursday’s debate is - like Wednesday’s gathering of Republicans - it wasn’t a debate at all. There was no interchange between the candidates. While that makes for a polite, civil affair, it also makes for a sleepy one that’s heavy on canned sound-bites.”

Talk about a snore fest on both days......
Before the Des Moines Register decides to put another one of these things on, they better get educated on how to do one.

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Patrick, Huntington Station NY — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 14:56:25 GMT

I watched the entire debate yesterday and first and foremost, Obama was not as good as some say he was. Hillary was better and most surprising, Biden's performance was very impressive. Least impressive was Richardson, followed by Dodd. Edwards just came across like a used car salesman.

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karlos — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:02:03 GMT

clearly biden had another good debate, as always. yet my money says he still lags in polls in spite of being the best qualified for president. the domain of the president is foreign affairs, the domain of the congress domestic policy [civics 101]! clearly the top candidate in foreign affairs is biden. he's got the only iraq proposal that's passed, was right on iran and pakistan [rest were clueless], and he votes based on conscience not polls as demostrrated by his support for funding ied safe vehicles for troops in spite of knowing he could lose poll points. the bs about being racist was suitable answered by him and supported by rest for what it was, bs. i salute obama for standing up in biden's defense on that. however biden is the person best qualified to lead this country out of its foreign problems and rescue the economy for the costs in iraq thart have devestated in a accompanying flood down effect on family budgets. let's get our MOJO working before the caucuses that's a contraction for MORE JOE biden.

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Ron, TX — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:20:49 GMT

Clinton got zinged baaad! What the heck was she thinking when she started laughing so loud and long, and then actually says "I have to hear that"!? Wham! Then she gets smacked down by a smooth one-liner from Obama!

If Hillary is so electable, then why is she tied in all of the early states with Obama? Wouldn't someone who is sooo electable be so far ahead? Or is that just another strawman argument from the Clinton camp to distract voters from what they really want- REAL CHANGE!

And she's ready to lead on day one? How is she going to fit "ready to lead" in her schedule between "apologize to Obama for embarassing statements" and "fight with Republicans over what to eat for dinner"?

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Nashville_fan — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:23:08 GMT

"SOOOOOOOOOOO TRUE - Pitting Black against White is what they did - It won't work here in America Double O's " - Lynne, Little Rock, Arkansas (Sent Friday, December 14, 2007 9:44 AM)

I'm not taking the bait (though I must admit it is tempting)! lol

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CR — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:38:28 GMT

The cause of Hillary's slipping poll numbers is that people are now starting to pay attention to the candidates. Debate after debate, poll after poll, all arranged and correographed by the Clintons are now beyond their control. People are really seeing what she is - a robot who can't answer unrehearsed questions, who can't function without a script, and everytime she tries to "wing it" she digs herself a deeper hole, just like she did with the drivers licenses for illegal aliens. She made the same stupid mistake yesterdayw with her shrilly laugh about Sen. Obama having former Clinton advisers on his team. Since those advisers are on Omama's team - and not hers - I would think she would have enough intelligence to shut up and just let him response. Instead she looked like a cackling fool!

I guess now we know why she failed the Washtington D.C. bar exam and had to hitch her wagon to Bill Clinton.

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J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:40:04 GMT

jerry.....come off it.
The G.O.P. has been running negative spin & attack campaigns for YEARS now. (i.e. "Michael Dukakis let a murderer go free," "Clinton dodged the draft," "Al Gore had a bodyguard in Vietnam," "Kerry wounded himself"...etc, etc, etc)
PLEASE don't even try to accuse anyone else of spinning, and making up lies about other candidates.
Because, YOU and your republiCANT buddies do it best!
Oh by the way.....how're things going for "America's Gigolo," Rappin' Rudy 'G' these days.
Har DEE HAR HAR!!!!!!

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v from naperville — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:55:19 GMT

I agree joe biden did well in another debate. But i still don't hear the answers to foriegn policy, oil costs in the middle east, better health care for the kids in america and a president that stands for us not Saudi Arabia, and China. We need to take care of number 1 which is the American Economy. Oh ya lets stop talking about the race issue it's getting alittle old. Time to move forward. Also who is running for President Obama or Oprah? I like your style big O man but dump Oprah. And talk for yourself.

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HP, Seattle, Washington — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:56:14 GMT

I'm asian,my husband and I are fans of Oprah. Both of us are very disapointed that Oprah took side in politics. We did not see her as a "black" woman until she supported Orack Obama, our favorite "black" senator after his speech in the democratic presidential debate.
Oprah, we love you to be everybody's dream not only certain ethnic or race. We have less enthusiasm watching your show or listen to whatever you say now.

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J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:56:15 GMT

".....Clinton got zinged baaad! What the heck was she thinking when she started laughing so loud and long, and then actually says "I have to hear that"!? Wham! Then she gets smacked down by a smooth one-liner from Obama!....." Ron, TX (Sent Friday, December 14, 2007 10:20 AM)

Oh really, Ron? Better be careful how you use that "zing," it could backfire.
A more complete analyzation of what Obama said reveals he admitted needing Hillary's help with foreign affairs,...which of course brings us back to the issue of experience.

".....If Hillary is so electable, then why is she tied in all of the early states with Obama? Wouldn't someone who is sooo electable be so far ahead? Or is that just another strawman argument from the Clinton camp to distract voters from what they really want- REAL CHANGE!....." Ron, TX (Sent Friday, December 14, 2007 10:20 AM)

Likewise Ron, if Obama represents "real change," then why isn't HE ahead nationally by 15 points, instead of Hillary? Hmmmmmmmmmmm?

".....And she's ready to lead on day one? How is she going to fit "ready to lead" in her schedule between "apologize to Obama for embarassing statements" and "fight with Republicans over what to eat for dinner"?....." Ron, TX (Sent Friday, December 14, 2007 10:20 AM)

Interesting, Ron.
So.....you criticize Hillary for her vote on Iraq, which was a republican initiative. You criticize Hillary for going along with any of Bush's conservative or republican agenda items.
Yet, you claim that Hillary is at odds with Republicans,...which means (tacitly) that you're saying Obama won't argue with them.
But rather, he'll go along with what the G.O.P. wants him to do, and THAT is supposed to be why DEMOCRATS should vote for him?
See how silly that sounds? You don't even understand the argument you're making, do you?

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Donna Mentrasti, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 15:57:00 GMT

I love Oprah but have to admit that I was a bit puzzled at her staunch involvement with a candidate in this election. I've been watching Oprah for over 20 years and can't think of a single time she has backed any candidate or even had a politically-driven episode on her show. It's difficult NOT to think about this perhaps being racially-motivated with her support of Obama now. Oprah is an amazing woman in so many ways and it is hard, not to say ridiculous, to even find a flaw, but....... it does make you wonder.

In contrast, Streisand for instance [who is backing Clinton], has been public about her political interests and passions since she supported and campaigned for JFK, and has been in every election since, making speeches, holding fund raisers, and putting herself 'out there' for ridicule for over 40 years. For me anyway, it just makes it a bit more credible.

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Desperate, Overland Park KS — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:01:12 GMT

The debate formats are ridiculous. They hardly represent a debate. What we have now is shorter versions of stump speeches being passed off as answers.
Any student of debate will tell you that until you get into the back and forth of rebuttles there is no debate to be had.
I'm tired of such a crowded field. If anyone wants to be honest you'll comment that these debates are useless. I watched them all and I want my time back. I'm almost ready to say let's switch to a parliamentry system. We all saw what happened to Dean, the washington insiders and corporate fat cats end up picking the primary nominee even more so than the general election.
The primary system is paradoxical. Candidates have to distinguish themselves from other candidates, but cannot do so too well for fear of offending the other consituencies in the party. Thusly, we get watered down centrists. This is yet another example of why a two party system is beyond awful.
Our election system is currently in shambles: voter fraud, astronomical fund raising, electoral college still exists, overcrowded primary fields, corrupt contributions, EXTREME PANDERING to fringe groups (both sides). This is hardly the process that the founders envisioned. Plus all the ridiculous infotainment and nonsense commentary by the likes of Bill O'Reilly and Chris Matthews is so partisan it's no longer even funny. The media is ruining politics in our country for so many reasons they are too numerous to list in one post. Candidates are talked about endlessly who don't appear on the program to defend themselves or have their side heard. Did you know that this used to be the normal, standard policy of news programs? The tv news media has turned into salesmen each network pimping their own candidate, hell, I wish at this point they'd just admit it like the newspapers do.

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Shaver One — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:02:15 GMT

Change for America is more than voting for the first woman President. Change for America is more than voting for the first black President.
Change for America means a Government that is truely open and transparent. Change for America means a government responsive to the needs of Americans, not just a few loyal cronies.
We desparately need change for America. Please remember that when you go to vote. And, please remember to VOTE.

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Nashville_fan — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:06:37 GMT

So Donna Menstrati, is your point that if you haven't been polically active for 40 years, never is a good time to start? I think the very definition of change is doing something DIFFERENTLY than you've done before.

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karlos — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:15:02 GMT

dear v, the war is the economy! candidates all stated that most of their domestic proposals could be paid for by eliminating the cost of iraq and taking the tax breaks away from the top 3%. it's not only the war cost but the flood down effect on the economy! gas prices are reflected not only at the pump but also passed on in costs of retail prices! the domestic issues you want to focus on will not be passed as presented by any one candidate as the congress determines domestic policy in bills passed. these are always a compromised position by committees and no ones agenda in the debate will pass intact! with a trifecta win [house,senate,and pres] in 08' by demos it will reflect basic demo agenda with simple majority. foreign affairs is mostly domain of president and biden's best of group as i stated. he has a solution for iraq and comprehensive experience in foreign affairs to lead us out of international problems. join my MOJO train and climb on surge for biden. even the other candidates have said in chorus "joe's reght" in previous debates in this area so take them at their word and vote biden.

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squintz, philly, pa — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:20:56 GMT

This Washburn character hasn't gotten one ounce of good press! How anyone can listen to Richardson at all astounds me, he sounds just like Chief Wiggum.

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A.Brocco, Albq. NM — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:21:16 GMT

Jerry,
I am anxiously waiting to hear Fruity Rudy's last testament. I'll bet you are excited too! In view of Alan Keyes more than impressive conservative responses during the Rep. debate, I have come up with a winning combo. for the Repub. in Nov. Ron Paul for president with his running mate....ta da Alan Keyes. From what I have read the whole state of Iowa is chomping at the bits to vote for Dr. Paul, he has enough money to make that happen. Alan Keyes certainly is a very well established conservative, certainly more so than "Wake me when it's over, Fred." I have even thought of the perfect slogan for them: Vote for Paul, he has the Keyes!

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Donna, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:21:52 GMT

No Nashville_fan, [and if you're going to use someone's complete name, it would be nice to spell it correctly] . . . I believe you missed my point.

I was remarking about the notion that one could take Oprah's support of Obama as somewhat racially-motivated. Personally, I don't think so because after watching Oprah all these years, I'd like to believe that isn't the case. However, it is interesting that she has never been one to involve herself in the political arena ever before. This is what could be bothering some.

As for Steisand, she's worn her political heart on her sleeve for decades, despite the backlash from media and fans, and has been a great student of the poolitical changes and concerns that have faced our nation for a long time. Her website, for years, is filled with political statements and concerns. Again, FOR ME, it rings a bit more credible.

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"Yellow Dog" Democrat — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:23:39 GMT

Polls are showing Edwards beats the top Republicans. (The one showing below is a CNN poll.) Democrats, give Edwards another look if you want to beat the Republicans!

Edwards 59% Romney 37%
Edwards 52% McCain 44%
Edwards 53% Giuliani 44%
Edwards 60% Huckabee 35%

Yesterday's debate

Lewania — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:30:36 GMT

I am disappointed that Ms. Winfrey endorsed Obama, he does not have the qualifications required to be President. That is not to say he does not have the potentials of becoming President. We have seen what happens when we put an inexperienced person in the Whitehouse. The state of America is too crucial for us to play the I like him game or he's black/white like me. We must take back what the current administration has taken away from American citizens and we can not afford the "On the Job Training" Mr. Obama will surely require. Ms. Winfrey failed to look at the total picture as well as electibility. She was way out of order, I like most of the candidates but I won't endorse nor vote based on likes or dislikes. I'm seriously looking for the most qualified of the candidates.

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jerry/corpus christi texas — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:40:13 GMT

Oh by the way.....how're things going for "America's Gigolo," Rappin' Rudy 'G' these days.
Har DEE HAR HAR!!!!!!

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Friday, December 14, 2007 10:40 AM)

About as good as Hillary.....
Guess we might not have to worry about New York as a player in this campaign....

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Lewania — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:55:48 GMT

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Shaver One — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:02:46 GMT

VOTE!
Mike Gravel fo President.
Ron Paul for Vice President.

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Nick, Iowa — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:08:14 GMT

J. Merle... Are you serious?

I tried to look up the word "analyzation" because I decided that it had to be the key that would unlock the wisdom of your posts. Unfortunately, it wasn't listed in the dictionary and I remain confused as to why you are determined to water-down this forum with your your mind-numbing chatter. At most your posts have been uninsightful and unneccesary. Please make meaningful contributions or simply read quietly. Thanks!

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Desperate, Overland Park KS — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:14:24 GMT

To Lewania, as someone in the field of personnel selection I'd like to hear what criteria you think ARE necessary for being a good President.

I'm no Obama supporter, but you say you want a qualified candidate, yet your entire comment is folksy, uneducated, and the spoonfed Clinton/Fox attack on Barack.

Do you have any opinions that are your own?

I would argue that no one experience in itself would qualify you to be President, similar to a CEO what you are looking at in selection is skillsets, while this references experience, it has little to nothing to do with previous job titles.

I would also argue that Bush had a lack of the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be President. However, it is simple minded thinking such that you put forth which led to his election in the first place. Go beyond what the media makes you feel into an actual PERSONAL analysis of the issue. Then if you can justify Barack on account of him being a poor decision maker, uneducated policy crafter, or inarticulate statesman, then by all means criticize away. However, you can't just repeat garbage you've heard on the news and expect to be taken seriously.

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CitizenJ — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:14:34 GMT

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Gavid Stacey, Los Angeles, California — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:28:50 GMT

MSNBC, I beg you to please stop puching for Obama in the run up to the primaries. I admire the man, but he is a liar. He has no integrity. His book is full of exagerated lies about the greatness of his father and himself. One example. he became the first black president of the Harvard Law Review because the supposed successor backed out last minute and none but Obama was interested for the job. This is not being prejudicial but is America ready for a President Barack Hussein Obama? Do we know enough about him to accord him the privilege of being the first Black (with Muslim roots) US President? Don't you think we Americans will be subjected to so much danger if he starts befriending radical Islam and dictators?

MSNBC, you dont really believe Hussein Obama is the best democratic candidate, do you? You are supporting him only because you dont like Hillary. Is that fair? I am no Hillary fan but I will vote for the woman just because her platforms are detailed and I dont expect any nasty surprises from her. I am 100% sure we will be plagued by badnews after badnews in a President Hussein Obama administration, simply because we do not know him as well as we know Hillary.

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Sara, Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:33:11 GMT

Of course Biden won, he wins every debate.

I found it interesting that Dodd criticized other candidates for calling China a competitor at theb IPTV debate. Someone should have reminded Chris that he was one of those who when asked if China was an "adversary or ally" like Obama, Richardson, and Edwards said they were a strategic competitor.

Biden said they are neither, but they are our mortgage holder.

Clinton who followed Biden at the AFL-CIO debate said "I want to say Amen to Joe Biden, because he's 100% right."

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Laurie, Manasquan, NJ — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:36:16 GMT

Joe Biden is definitely the most qualified to be President of the whole bunch, both Republican and Democrat. I hear from Senator Biden's office from his Chief of Staff regularly on various topics and initiatives that the Senator is involved in. Senator Biden is the only politician that I have ever heard from in this manner and I regularly write to many of them. Joe has my vote if he should be lucky enough to win the primary. He's a good man and would be a great leader.

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V from Naperville — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:44:00 GMT

Dear Karlos, You're correct on the economy, But MOJO meaning more Joe Biden seems pretty much like something my 8 year old would say, But I'll definitely consider Joe Biden. Like what he had to say, Hope we see the commitment from whichever candidate gets elected. Vote for a change

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Desperate, Overland Park KS — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:48:46 GMT

To Gavid Stacey...
I hope you are not a Democrat. You sound ridiculous.

You write...
'Do we know enough about him to accord him the privilege of being the first Black (with Muslim roots) US President? Don't you think we Americans will be subjected to so much danger if he starts befriending radical Islam and dictators?'

First of all you need to stop watching Fox News and stop being so afraid of what you don't know. What the hell does the fact that he was raised Muslim have anything to do with his qualifications for President (the Muslim religious is no less looney than the Christian religion when it is followed exactly by fundamentalists). You are bordering on bigotry. OOOOHHHHH you think he's going to befriend a dirty foreigner. Listen to yourself. How old are you. Your analysis sounds like that of a fifth grader. If you are indicative of the type of independent voters we need to have a democrat President I'll say that America doesn't deserve a democrat President.

Also you wrote this...
MSNBC, you dont really believe Hussein Obama is the best democratic candidate, do you? You are supporting him only because you dont like Hillary. Is that fair? I am no Hillary fan but I will vote for the woman just because her platforms are detailed and I dont expect any nasty surprises from her. I am 100% sure we will be plagued by badnews after badnews in a President Hussein Obama administration, simply because we do not know him as well as we know Hillary.

What are you talking about. Hillary's platforms are detailed????????????????????? You must be joking. I'm not anti-Hillary and I'll vote for her if she's the Dem nominee, but come on YOU DON'T HAVE ANY CLUE ABOUT THE FACTS OF THIS CAMPAIGN.

Let me guess, you occasionally watch the news. You've never once read the platform of Obama or Hillary Clinton on their website for that matter. You lead a sheltered existence, because you are about to wet your pants because somebody has the name Hussein. Oh my God stop the presses, his middle name is Hussein. He's so different, he's so strange, we don't know anything about him.

NO, YOU DON'T know anything about him. He has a book detailing his life and positions. READ IT.

Oh wait let me guess you don't read much. YOU LIKE TO HAVE THE WORK DONE FOR YOU. The problem is your analysis is a joke and completely uninformed.
KEEP QUIET at the adults table or we'll send you back to the kiddy table.

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Robert Catalano, Salem, OR — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:49:32 GMT

I believe whoever wins should appoint Biden as Secretary of State. He is thoughtful, insightful and can laugh at himself. He will not be the President's lackey and he can probably do more to repair our friendships throughout the world than anyone. I think if we are to escape the curent "bunker mentality" of the current administration and work with other nations on economic expansion and global warming, he would be a good choice to lead that effort.

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Blue state baby — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:02:42 GMT

Who did Oprah endorce in the past, before there was ever a black candidate?? Did she like Al??

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HMT-MI — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:03:10 GMT

Edwards would win nationally---I like both Hillary and Obama but just from reading the aboved posts they have too much baggage----read what you wrote.You people listen too much to Matthews,Drudge and Fox and rush,do not forget Coulter ---she called Edwards a faggot----------did you believe her?

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FACT / AZ — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:04:59 GMT

Stepping back ten Years! Conjecture, professional liar, Washington self serving paper hanger, scandal followed by scandal! Demeaning of American moral being, Launched attacks against undefined targets, and that is just a short list! Ten years of building a disgusting failed Congress!

The reality: Between the Bushes and the Clinton's, this country has been turned inside out! We are now being forced to return to the past!

My solution:: Don't send another worthless Washington self serving paper hanger back to the White House!

Open the door and return the voice of the people who own this country.

Remove the useless homesteading Washington self serving paper hangers from congress!

And that would be solutions to stop this insanity of having a failed congress and a uncontrolled President!!! Now that is FACT!

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Donna — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:06:25 GMT

My ideal ticket would be Clinton-Biden (or Biden-Clinton). This country needs strong, knowledgeable, experienced, and wise leadership. That ticket has it all.

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Steve, Springfield, Ill. — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:07:28 GMT

My first thought was that Oprah's endorsement of Obama was an effort to get out the black vote as well. But that overlooks a far more important angle: Oprah can help Obama get the female vote, which is a more important angle considering his chief opposition is Hillary Clinton, whose lifeblood will be the female vote.

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Tom Connors,Amarillo, Texas — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:21:29 GMT

We Democrats need to get realistic. If we want to win back the White House we need to nominate our most electable candidate. All the polls I have seen show that to be John Edwards

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Tom Connors,Amarillo, Texas — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:22:31 GMT

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Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:24:10 GMT

It really upsets me (not an Oprah watcher) that people are feeling free to say her motives for endorsing are based on race. The reason she never got involved before but has now is because she and Obama are friends. They go to church together. She did not stump for him, in order to tell people how to vote, but in order to get more people to hear his message. Look Bill Clinton campaigns for his wife, and so do Clinton's friends and family. It's the same thing with Oprah campaigning for Obama.

Obama has made it clear from day one that he is not running for President to represent Black Americans but ALL Americans. When Oprah refers to Dr. King's dream, she was in no way pitting Black vs. White. What Dr. King dreamed of was equality for all Americans. Obama’s candidacy (as well as Clinton’s) are historical steps in search of that equality. When Oprah said he is "the one", she didn't mean he's the black candidate who can get elected. She meant he is the President who can heal this country and take back the control for the People from the establishment.

If I hear the quote "on the job training" one more time, I think my head might explode. Look Clinton is qualified, Biden is qualified, and so is Obama. For those people who support Clinton now and think Bill was a great president. He faced these same critiques about being inexperienced and said experience is not what matters. Now they would lead us to believe that experience is what matters most, and that Hillary is the only one who has any. Even if experience is more important than a history of good judgement, Clinton's experiences are no better than Obama's. Why don't people criticize Edward's experience? He was only a one term Senator, and hasn't held any other elected office that I know of.

What made Bush Jr a terrible president was not due to his inexperience. He's just not a smart guy. Combine that with bad advisers, bad intentions, and a stubborn personality and this is what you get. Hillary is a smart person, but I also think she has bad advisers, stubbornness, and her own agenda (not the American people's agenda).

Obama has the charisma that Bill has, a top notch education, many years of dedicated service in elected office, and a great plan for this country. People who claim not to know what his positions are haven't really tried to find out. You can't get it from watching the news, the debates, or on blogs. Go to the candidates web sites, and look at the policies. Watch speeches and forums, when they are allowed to speak in longer than 30 second sound bites.

Many of the candidates in the Democratic race are ready to lead on day one. But ask yourself where do they want to lead us? Does Clinton really want change or to go back to the 90's? She is part of the establishment, so why should we believe she wants to change things that much? What will her lobbyist supporters have to say about the changes she will make?

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Elizabeth, Asheville, NC — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:26:33 GMT

The media, caucus goers in Iowa and the rest of us need to appreciate the dire straits our country faces and push for a candidate who has the knowledge and temperament to lead, now more than ever, and that candidate, proven again and again, is Joe Biden. Who else has as much know how in both foreign and domestic issues? No one except Joe Biden!

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Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:47:11 GMT

I like Joe Biden, but there is a reason he hasn't gained any traction in Iowa and it is not the media. The fact is there isn't much difference between having 30 years of experience in the Senate or having 5. There are a lot of excellent candidates running, that have both elected and life experiences that qualify them to represent the American people. You need to be up on the current issues of the world and you need to have good judgement. And domestic issues are important too. Just because they don't seem that important to Bush, doesn't mean that next the President should leave the domestic agenda to the Congress.

Joe Biden does not inspire me, and I imagine that is probably why he hasn't gained much support in Iowa despite an opportunity to speak to voters in person. That is the reason the primaries are the way they are. To give the underdog a chance. It's not that I don't think Joe Biden could be a good president, but there are better candidates for me. He doesn't really stand for the change that I want. And I don't think he is a natural leader, who can motivate the country and get the world back on our side.

I see his approach to foreign policy as being to by the book and dry. In this day and age, personality and interaction with the media are important tools to changing world oppinion of us.

Yesterday's debate

Houston — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:58:37 GMT

I thought Obama's comment about how he would be glad to have Hillary as an advisor was one of the best zingers I've heard in these debates. It was amusing but not at all nasty.

And contrary to what Chris Matthews said last night, Hillary did not "cackle;" she laughed good-naturedly at Obama's crack. Matthews has got a lot of nerve criticizing the way other people laugh when he laughs like a hyena who's just spotted a lion in the underbrush.

Yesterday's debate

Kaye Miller, WA — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:59:46 GMT

Last I checked, Oprah is an American citizen, free to endorse or not endorse as SHE sees fit. She has every right to campaign for him, just as other celebs, non celebs have endorsed other candidates. Just sore losers because Oprah is not endorsing their candidate

Yesterday's debate

Houston — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:12:29 GMT

[["I get a little..I guess the word is 'offended,'" Winfrey said. "To think that I would be supporting someone just because of their skin would mean we haven't moved far from Dr. King's speech in 1963, where he The person who made that comment is the racist for claiming that a black person can't endorse another black person for public office.

That's one of Obama's biggest weaknesses. Few racists would vote for any Democratic candidate, but the racists who normally are too lazy to vote will get their lard butts off the sofa to go out and vote to prevent a black man from being elected president.

Yesterday's debate

love it ! — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:14:00 GMT

The Titanic: The Obama Campaign Tries to Preemptively Self-Destruct (in the General Election)

http://www.theleftcoaster.com/

Yesterday's debate

Dot, Illinois — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:14:35 GMT

Kelly

To some degree, it does make a difference whether you have spent 30 or 5 years in Congress. I think chairmanships of important committees are based on seniority. Senator Biden heads the Foreign Relations Committee a position that gains him and an entre with leaders of most world countries. His policy is "too by the book and dry?" He was one of the few in Washington who offered a plan for ending the sectarian violence in Iraq and bringing our soldiers home. I think that shows initiative and vision and willingness to change.

His record on domestic issues is outstanding. He would serve this country well as President.

Yesterday's debate

Houston — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:15:29 GMT

Kaye Miller [[Last I checked, Oprah is an American citizen, free to endorse or not endorse as SHE sees fit. She has every right to campaign for him, just as other celebs, non celebs have endorsed other candidates. ]]

Absolutely. I haven't heard anyone whine that Chuck Norris was trying to get people to vote for Huckabee because they're both white. Or because they're both nut cases.

Yesterday's debate

Kaye Miller, WA — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:16:19 GMT

Actually, Hillary did "cackle" after the moderator asked her question. I agree that she did not "cackle" after Obamas comment, she looked mighty deflated. I agree that Chris Matthews has some annoying laughs, however, he is not on a debate platform running for president

Yesterday's debate

Patrick Huntington NY — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:18:50 GMT

Watching the Democrats debate is like watching a conversation between intellectuals who know what the real issues are facing this nation with real solutions. Watching the Repukes debate is like watching a bunch of priests fighting over the last alter boy.

Yesterday's debate

Kato in Des Moines — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:23:57 GMT

Kelly: I guess we stand in different shoes. I don't need hollow rhetoric; I don't need inspiration; I don't need hope. I need a proven and experienced leader who can start fixing George Bush's messes the minute he takes office. For me it's Biden all the way. I know Biden can restore America's standing in the international community.

EXPERIENCE does matter. And this election I definitely value experience over inspiration. Look in 2000 we went with the Washington outsider and abandonned the more experienced candidate Gore. We ended up with Bush -- the so called uniter; the guy everyone liked and wanted to have a beer with. That was a BIG MISTAKE. Trust me, experience and the ability to build political consensus, do matter.

Of the six leading democratic candidates, five have served in the Senate. Here's a few of Biden's accomplishments -- compare them to any other candidate -- Biden wins hands down:

1. Sponsored the Biden Crime Bill which put 100,000 law enforcement officers on the streets to fight crime in America (Giuliani couldn't even begin to put a dent in NYC crime without this legislation);

2. Sponsored the Violence Aganist Women Act which provided the necessary funds and resources to tackle domestic violence;

3. Champion of civil rights -- he sponsored the renewal and expansion of the Voting Rights Act to ensure everyone's vote is counted regardless of party affiliation, race, gender, or sexual orientation;

4. Past Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee who led the fight to stop Robert Bork's nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court (Bork would have been a disaster for this country);

5. Present Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee -- this guy is regarded by his colleagues as the most experienced and knowledgeable in the Congress on matters of foereign affairs; he is well known by foreign leaders around the globe -- most recently the President of Pakistan took his call and Biden gave him an earful on the suppression of human rights and democracy in Pakistan (he didn't take any calls from Clinton, or Obama or Dodd or Edwards or even the Pres. -- it was Biden);

6. He's the only candidate to offer a workable plan to bring stability to Iraq so we can bring our troops home;

7. He's the only candidate to get 74 of his Senate colleagues to agree on a plan for Iraq (none of the other candidates could build that kind of political consensus on such a controversial issue; key republican senators have endorsed his plan -- most notably Chuck Hagel in Nebraska and Sam Brownback in Kansas who actually campaigned with Biden earlier this year in support of Biden's plan for Iraq).

I'm going with proven leader in this race. Biden '08

Yesterday's debate

karlos — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:35:33 GMT

joe biden doesn't inspire you? a man who lost his wife and daughter in a car accident and has dedicated his life to public service doesn't inspire you? i would have totally collapsed and probably been bitter most of my life if that happened to me! he got up thanked God for what he still had, his 2 sons, and moved on to better this country. to have a iraq plan that passed the senate and is applauded by everyother candidate doesn't inspire you? is he a cheerleader? no. he's a patroit who is dedicated to this country, ethical,intelligent, self depricating, a straight shooter, and even humorous on occassion. he's the best in foreign affairs and why the hell would i want him as sec. of state when he can lead 50 states back to prominence as he is respected aroiund the world and they know he means what he says. that's inspirational in my book.

Yesterday's debate

Kym — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:43:09 GMT

Who did Oprah endorce in the past, before there was ever a black candidate?? Did she like Al??
Blue state baby (Sent Friday, December 14, 2007 1:02 PM)

Oprah has never endorsed a candidate, including the previous BLACK candidate Jesse Jackson, she felt compelled to support Barack Obama because she genuinely believe his message and believes that he can lead the country in the right direction.

Yesterday's debate

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 19:46:07 GMT

Dot,

I didn't say that it didn't make any difference, but I don't feel the number of years in congress should be the determining factor. I don't actually know how much more interaction Biden has had with foreign leaders due to his chairmanship, but again, I don't really value that. I would rather have someone in charge who is not tainted by America's past actions and interactions with the world.

I do not like the plan Biden has advocated for Iraq, and I do see it as an example of the what's been wrong with our foreign relations. The reason foreign people don't like America, is because we are always meddling in their business. If we advocate the splitting of Iraq in order to achieve the piece, then everyone who doesn't like that solution will blame us for years to come. We are already to blame for screwing this country up, and I agree it would be nice if we could solve their problems. But we can't. The Iraqi people must do it on their own. And if that means that they are better ruled by a dictator than a democracy, then that is what will happen. In order for a democracy to work, people have to want it bad enough to die for it and they have to be willing to accept the basic concept of it. That you allow others freedoms, even though you don't agree with them. And that you agree to be law abiding, even if you are in the minority. It doesn't seem to me that these people are ready for this.

The reason we are still in Iraq is not out of our moral obligations but because we are afraid that Iraq is going to become best buddies with Iran. Our mistaken invasion did this, and our country needs to live with the consequences not continue meddling in Iraqi politics.

Yesterday's debate

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 20:06:29 GMT

I think I am entitled to my opinion about who does and doesn't inspire me. Biden is a great American who has done a lot for this country; I just don't believe he is the best one to lead it into the future.

As for his accomplishments, I wouldn't dispute that he has many and as he's been at this longer, probably more than any other candidate. I actually get a little disgusted on his behalf, every time Hillary acts like she is the most experienced person running. But experience is only one factor and not the most important in my mind.

As for the tragedy that occurred in his life, I’m glad he has made his way through it so well. Now I know I am going to ruffle a lot of feathers with this next comment, but this is my honest opinion. When I read that article about his past today, if anything, it really made me like him less. It seemed to me that he just brought this up to reporters out of the blue and that he was trying to use this for political gain. As being someone who has also suffered personal tragedy, I really didn’t like him bringing it back up to reporters after all these years. I am sorry if this characterization offends Biden supporters, but that article made me feel differently about him.

Yesterday's debate

raf — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 20:21:39 GMT

LOL . . . bothered by Biden's past (wife and infant daughter killed in an auto accident; two young sons seriously injured; his own fight w/ brain aneurysms), but somehow not bothered with Obama's past (drug use). Inspiration????

Yesterday's debate

Laurie, Manasquan, NJ — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:06:35 GMT

Kelly, please....Biden's personal story wasn't even known to alot of people until just recently. He never wore that tragedy on his sleeve. Come on. It's his life story that shows the type of man he is..the quality of his character. How can you not be inspired by his personal story. Many others would have given up or worse killed themselves like my brother in law did after his only child died of leukemia. Senator Biden has dedicated his life to serving the people of Delaware and the United States and as was pointed out a few posts back by Kato in Des Moines accomplished what few others have. I'm behind Joe all the way and if he doesn't win the primary, I may eventuallly move from New Jersey to Delaware.

Yesterday's debate

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:13:57 GMT

raf, your missing the point entirely. I am bothered that I think Biden brought this tragedy up out of the blue for political gain. In order to get some positive press and some sympathy. Overcoming tragedy and doing good things is noble. Bringing it up to the press many years later to make yourself look good is not.

Yes, Obama overcame a mistaken youth to do great things. And this infact may be inspiring to other youths in similar situations. Biden's story is inspiring to survivors of tragedy. But in looking for the next president, what I am inspired by are Obama's plans to lead our country forward and his abilities to make them happen.

Yesterday's debate

Lee Holmes — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:27:43 GMT

Mebbe they can name a chicken after Hillary.

Yesterday's debate

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:23:08 GMT

Laurie, I am 100% serious. I was offended that he pushed this story to the forefront. The NYT article clearly said that a voter asked him a question about negative campaigning and that he abruptly changed the subject to "Let me tell you a story." It's pretty clear that he planned ahead of time to get this postive story about himself out there. Nevertheless, it turns my stomache that someone would use the memory of their dead wife and child for political gain in this way.

So in summary. The story is inspiring, the way he used it, disgusting!

Yesterday's debate

PollM, Dallas TX — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:44:19 GMT

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Yesterday's debate

Bob Jackson, Eiln CA — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 04:26:48 GMT

Desperate --> First of all you need to stop watching Fox News and stop being so afraid of what you don't know. <<

To my knowledge, Fox News has made no such claim. I wouldn't doubt if Hillary's team is hacking that lie around somewhere though. We all know she likes the politics of personal destruction.

Desperate --> MSNBC, you dont really believe Hussein Obama is the best democratic candidate, do you? <<

You seem to like doing the same types of things too. You should sign up to work for Hillary.

Yesterday's debate

Dot, Illinois — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 15:42:15 GMT

Kelly

I find it interesting that you say that you don't value the interaction with foreign leaders that Senator Biden possesses. How could anyone not see that already having a working relationship with leaders with whom our country needs to reach agreements is a tremendous asset for a president? He could start working right away; no need to go through the getting to know you--feeling each other out phase.