Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Matt B, Lawrence KS — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:07:52 GMT

This should give a BIG boost to Hillary Clinton...

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

girlwonder — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:09:25 GMT

Really? Didn't they endorse Edwards in 2004 and Bradley in 2000?

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Aidyn, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:11:13 GMT

YES!!!!those were the right choices.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Bee — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:11:56 GMT

I knew that was coming but their endorsement won't work this time arround

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

SB — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:13:14 GMT

It's unfortunate that the Des Moines Register has chosen to endorse the least electable, most negative democratic candidate in the field. Politics as usual wins out over an opportunity to realign our country with it's original ideals. A sad day for the DMR, though I trust the citizens of Iowa to make the right choice for us.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Steve, Chicago, IL — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:14:33 GMT

A big shock and a big disappointment. The DMR has a very progressive history, but this time they picked the establishment candidate.

It is sort of funny to note the reasons they listed for picking McCain are many of the reasons they should have endorsed someone like Barack Obama.

Hopefully this won't provide Clinton with much of a bounce. Eight more miserable years of hawkish conservativism and dirty politics are not something I look forward to.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Matt B, Lawrence KS — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:15:24 GMT

Edwards was running a distant fourth in the Iowa caucus BEFORE the endorsement in 2004. He was a very close second AFTER the endorsement...

Does this mean she wins Iowa? No. Does this help her? Absolutely.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Daniel (Lafayette, CA) — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:15:50 GMT

well that sucks....I figured it would either be Biden, Edwards or Obama....

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Nashville_fan — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:17:36 GMT

I am disappointed in their selection, but congrats to Senator Clinton! Here's hoping this is the last thing she wins in Iowa! :)

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Bee, NH — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:18:35 GMT

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Bee, NH — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:20:53 GMT

At least they should have given it to Biden if not Obama. Biden alone fit into their narrative; Clinton is the least qualify, yet, they gave it to her.

Congratulation Madame Clinton

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Kara — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:22:09 GMT

In 2004 they endorsed Edwards because he was so "positive" and here's Clinton running a campaign on Obama-was-a-drug-dealer/Obama-is-a-jihadist. Go figure, I guess. I thought the 2004 endorsement helped Edwards because it was right before the caucuses but this one is almost 3 weeks away.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

BILR23 — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:22:37 GMT

While Hillary Rodham Clinton would likely make an excellent President, the reasons cited by The Des Moines Register -- experience and readiness to lead -- are labels that should be reserved for Joseph Biden.

Contrary to Sen. Clinton, Sen. Biden has presented concrete plans during this campaign. He has unmatched experience and knowledge. And his time in the Senate is noteworthy for both his leadership and action. He is a leader and not just a talker. I am further dismayed by this endorsement because I believe Senator Clinton should be required to actually answer a question -- without equivocation -- before getting such an important endorsement.

I hope Iowa and New Hampshire voters look past the truly exciting candidacies of Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama and support someone who has spent over half of his life leading and solving problems, Joe Biden.

Consider the following question: In today's world, would you really vote for someone to be President who is not qualified to be Secretary of State?

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Dinsdale, Richmond, VA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:25:51 GMT

This is an example of why traditional news media have no credibility any more.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

ace p washington, d.c. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:25:51 GMT

i am not suprised at this endorsement afterreading the pressure applied to get it. all of the candidates solicited the endorsement but hillary got it. she needs it and the dmr probaly wants her to win iowa. they have the right to endorse who they want. this really hurts john edwards. his situation is he really needed this before getiing to n.h. obama did get the boston globe endorsement. congrats, hillary.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

toml — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:26:45 GMT

very disappointing choice I thought they would suprise us. I guess the MSM has gotten to the ladies of the DMR editorial board??

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

TheDonald — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:27:00 GMT

Paul Simon, Bill Bradley, John Edwards and now Hillary Clinton....There seems to be a consistent pattern here.

The people of Iowa are smarter this time around. They want a winner who will break away from the gridlock of the past and make Americans believe again in the American dream.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Diogenes — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:27:13 GMT

Sour grapes is the false denial of desire for something sought but not acquired; to denigrate and feign disdain for that which one could not attain. This metaphor originated from the fable The Fox and the Grapes by Aesop, where the protagonist fox fails to reach some grapes hanging high up on a vine, retreats, and rationalizes that the grapes are probably unripe anyway. The grapes in the original fable is more accurately described as unripe, and the word "unripe" may have been replaced with "sour" by the fable's Victorian translators due to the latter's simpler sound, and because of the former's connotation as an innuedo (ie. an unripe woman). The phenomenon has been seen as a challenge to the rational-actor view within the social sciences, with its significance debated by scholars such as Jon Elster and Steven Lukes.

The phrase is sometimes also used to refer to one expressing, in an unsportsmanlike or ungracious way, anger or frustration at having failed to acquire something (i.e. being a "sore loser"), regardless of whether the party denies their desire for the item (i.e. hypothetical girl Joumanna being jealous of the fact that no one buys her lunch). Not including the denial of desire is technically a slipshod extension of the metaphor because it is inconsistent with the phrase's origin in the fable and the notion of the grapes being declared "sour". [1]

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Dillon — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:27:26 GMT

Isn't it a little hypocritical for the Register to say that Obama isn't experienced enough when this same paper endorsed one term senator John Edwards 4 years ago? Just asking.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:28:42 GMT

To what experience are they referring? The only experience I see, is bad experience. Hillary voted for and continues to vote for, GWB's positions on Middle East militarism. Hillary will never get my vote for president and I am a staunch Democrat. I know that I speak for many Democrats.
Obama '08

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Liz Lemon, NY, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:30:00 GMT

Blurgh

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Tim F. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:30:19 GMT

Congratulations Senator Clinton!!! You deserve this endorsement. I agree that you are the most experienced, intelligent and hardest working person in the race. The other Democratic candidates are competant and I would be OK with any of them. However, I trust you the most to undo the damage of both Bush administrations.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Matt B, Lawrence KS — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:31:00 GMT

I simply don't understand this Anti-Hillary and Pro-Obama in this country. I personally am a huge Michael Bloomberg fan, yet I think that Hillary is a great candidate for President.

The problem with Obama isn't that he isn't a "change" candidate, it's that he is simply a symbol for change not an agent.

If the mentality is that we don't want any veteran candidate for President because their old and "wicked and corrupt" and that's the reason your supporting Obama... We really do live in a sorry country...

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

TheDonald — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:33:24 GMT

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Steve — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:45:11 GMT

"Indeed, Obama, her chief rival, inspired our imaginations. But it was Clinton who inspired our confidence. Each time we met, she impressed us with her knowledge and her competence.

The times demand results. We believe as president she’ll do what she’s always done in her life: Throw herself into the job and work hard. We believe Hillary Rodham Clinton can do great things for our country." -- From the Des Moines Register

Obama will make a great president... someday. Just not right now. Hillary works hard. She is extremely intelligent and knows the ropes in Washington. As a nation, we don't need hope. We need action. She's the candidate who can give us that.

Give her a chance. Let her prove it. Thank you, DMR!!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

csh, IL — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:45:46 GMT

They made the correct choice - Hillary is the one ready to lead us out of the Bush/Cheney mess! This board met with and was wooed by all of the candidates and they chose the BEST - Hillary Clinton!!!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Brant Weeks — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:52:05 GMT

Thank you, DMR. Hard decisions and strenuous action have shaped this country, it's politics, and it's direction. Now is NOT the time to take any chances. I know of no time more critically in need of experienced direction than now. The Clinton's are surprisingly, yet despirately, needed again.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Alexandra, SC, IA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 02:56:03 GMT

I diasagree with the Des Moine Register's claim that Hillary has more experience. Afterall, Barack has more experience as an elected official. Hillary's experience is based on privilege, opportunity and, the advantage she had as a result of her marriage to Bill. Barack is visionary, positive, and speaks of empowerment through collective unification. Clinton is divisive, polarizing, and has little record of bi-partisan success. Iowans are disappointed in the Des Moines Register. Shame on you.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Virgil Hokanson, Las Vegas, Nevada — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:00:02 GMT

I wonder why the Register believes Sen. Clinton more experienced and more "ready to lead" than Sen. Biden. I believe they may have missed the "small print"????

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Brian W., Southfield, MI — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:00:09 GMT

This day should be given a red mark in history if Senator Clinton should win the nomination. What is experience without electability? With a severely fragmented Republican electorate, there is only one thing that they can count on to unite them; A Hillary Rodham Cliton nomination. But I suppose, the polls will soon reveal if the state's newspaper of record is more influential than the recent Obama trend. And to think we question the privledge of one state determining the next President of the United States.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

NT Kramer, Clearwater FL — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:00:32 GMT

Do we really care who a bunch of drunk pig farmers endorse?

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

John M., San Diego, CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:02:00 GMT

I couldn't disagree more with the Register's assessment of Hillary Clinton. All I see when I look at the reasons they gave for their selection is fear. Fear of what it means to stand up for progressive causes, fear of envisioning a different, more peaceful world and a different, less partisan Washington. Fear of change when change is desperately needed. Why anyone expects her to suddenly grow a spine for anything other than attacking her fellow democrats and actually deliver on her policies after her votes on Iraq and Iran is beyond me.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

ace p washington, d.c. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:04:33 GMT

i must admit, i am really suprised at the dmr. if anyone else had gotten this endorsement i would have said o.k. i can respect that. they have given it to the one candidate that has run a veru ugly and sleazy campaign the last 2 weeks. i really htough that integrity stood for something. all the other candidates kept their head out of the dirt and mud. hrc went wallowing in it.

this was a real knife in the back to john edwards and biden. richardson really looks bad now after begging for this endorsement. i think it is safe to say that dodd, biden, kucinich and richardson are done now.

this really puts john edwards in a bad situation with his matching funds campaign. if he doesn't get second in iowa he may be out of it because he has no chance in n.h and trails really badly in s.c.

again, congrats, to hillary and her supporters

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Aidyn, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:04:50 GMT

Matt B,

"The problem with Obama isn't that he isn't a "change" candidate, it's that he is simply a symbol for change not an agent."

You are totally right! you are very smart.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Paul, NY, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:05:57 GMT

I am thrilled with the DMR endorsement of Hillary Clinton. After reading the extensive vetting process they go through, I am convinced they made the right choice. Of course, all the anti-Clintonites will dismiss this as unimportant. Iowans know this is not the case. Read below an excerpt from the DMR editorial tonight in which they address being accused of selecting Hillary based on gender - it's hogwash!

"Some had already speculated that we would endorse Clinton because the editor, publisher and I are women. We didn’t begin with Clinton. Like many others, we were skeptical, and, even at the end, not all the women leaned toward Clinton. But she won us over, particularly in the editorial board meetings and debates. And we take our responsibility to Iowa and the nation too seriously to make a decision based on just gender or race or one issue."

And to the #1 anti-Clintonite Bee, N.H. if your idol Obama got it, would that have been because a member of the DMR editorial board is African-American? I didn't think so.

GO HILLARY '08

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

diane — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:11:00 GMT

When was the last time the Register endorsed a winner? decades?
The Boston Globe is far more impressive. And they don't endorse for shallow reasons. The Register has 6 women on it's 7 member board.
Surprised they would go shallow when Clinton falls apart like she has because of one bad debate. I don't think that shows her to be suited to the job.
Besides, Obama has run rings around her whenever she has tried to attack him.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

ace p washington, d.c. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:19:39 GMT

well it will be interesting to see how many hrc supporters go to the boston globe next door. we ave admit folks if it was someone we were rooting for we would be gloating to. they won the endorsement. we can't in them all. this is the beauty of this great american process.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Gregory Jones, Shaw AFB, South Carolina — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:23:04 GMT

Hope vs. Experience…Our country has monumental challenges that we must face. And as an active duty Airman in the Air Force, I know this much is true; we need the right leader to tackle these problems. The question that we must ask ourselves is: Can "Hope" or "Experience" solve those issues. Until recently I've thrown my support behind both Obama and Clinton. After exhaustive research into both Sen Obama's work as a state legislator and U.S. Senator compared to Hillary's time in the White House and as a U.S. senate; I've come to a conclusion. I've concluded that Sen Clinton has a record of getting things done, and surprisingly in a bipartisan manor. I couldn't find any significant work with Sen Obama's name attached to it. Facing a world of danger and a country full of uncertainty we indeed need hope. BUT hope is not enough when experience is paramount. The election of Bush is proof that the most important quality of a President is not whether you would want to have a beer with him/her; it's whether they have EXPERIENCE. Sen Obama is an awesome man and has a bright future ahead of him, but Hillary Clinton is that person who has experience to represent us on the world stage. Finally, my mind is made up.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

yiannis, baltimore — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:28:00 GMT

If Clinton wins the whole thing, do you think she will forget this endorsement? or help those who helped her?

The DMR is seeking to be king - well - queenmakers.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

csh, IL — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:28:58 GMT

Lots of sour grapes from the Hillary haters. I guess just like polls, the endorsements are only valid when they go against Hillary.

This is big for her in IA and anyone who says otherwise is fooling themselves! All the candidates wanted and worked for this endoresement but only Hillary could get it!!

the smartest, the strongest, the most capable - Hillary!!!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Jessica , Altoona, IA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:42:41 GMT

The Des Moines Register has picked candidates who will maintain the foreign policy as it is now and won't change a thing. Anyone who is happy to pay a vast majority of their earnings to the government for wasteful spending should surely agree with these selections.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

James P. Anderson, Phd. Finley, Ohio — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:51:54 GMT

Give it up folks, Hillary Clinton will be the Democratic Presidential candidate and the next President of the "United" States. Now come see why, we welcome you with open arms.. hillaryclinton.com

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Janet, Knoxville, TN — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:54:55 GMT

The Des Moines Register's track record is dismal for endorsing the eventual winner.

2004 - They did NOT choose Kerry - they chose Edwards.

2000 - They did NOT choose Gore - they chose Bradley.

1988 - They did NOT choose Gephardt - they chose Paul Simon.

(BTW - 1992, Senator Harkin was a candidate, so the other major players gave Iowa a pass)

Not a great record on picking winners. I think Obama and Edwards and Biden should be relieved!! I hope Obama wins! (or Edwards or Biden) I could never, EVER vote for Hillary.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Mark, NC — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:55:19 GMT

WTF? Got things done in the White House? Where was Gore? I guess she was doing his job...LOL. Working with Repubs? Low level bills, no real fight. I've asked many of my Repub friends how they feel about the Dem candidates. Only Hillary gets a wild response. AND SOMEHOW SHE WILL BRING THE COUNTRY TOGETHER? Do ANY of you Hillary supporters think they will work with her for a minute? Can't wait for her famous "bipartisan commission". She'll need it once the Dems lose some house and senate seats.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

KO, CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:55:31 GMT

I have to point out just how out of touch the Des Moines Register is with its readers. Do they honestly believe that Republicans in Iowa are going to vote for McCain? He is fourth or fifth place in polls in Iowa, behind even Guiliani. This "endorsement" is worthless because it has NO CHANCE whatsoever to change the fact that Iowa (the people of which the Des Moines Register "supposedly" know) will go to either Huckabee or Romney. Man they just are tone deaf to the desires of the people in their own state.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Kato in Des Moines — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:57:13 GMT

The Register needs to take a mulligan.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Mary — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 03:59:31 GMT

Great news for us Obama supporters. We can count on Hillary losing the Iowa Caucus!

The Register has a track record of backing the losing Democratic candidate in the Iowa caucuses.

In 1988 it supported Sen. Paul Simon who lost to Rep. Dick Gephardt. In 2000 it backed Bill Bradley who lost by a wide margin to Al Gore.

Four years ago the Register endorsed Edwards who finished a strong second to Sen. John Kerry in the caucuses.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Eli, Marietta Ohio — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:00:01 GMT

Well done Des Moines Register. Thank you for endorsing Hillary Clinton, you will once again bring a candidate to a second or third place finish in Iowa. Just as you did for Edwards, just as you did for Bradley. I think that this is a great track record for the Des Moines Register, and I certainly hope it continues. I would love nothing more than to see Hillary come in Second or Third place in Iowa.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Arshad, Newburgh, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:06:16 GMT

It would have uplifted Obama's campaign if the Register endorsed him. So net is DMR din't do an extra boost for him that they could have.

But think this way. If IOWAN are not supporting Hillary after knowing her name for this long and knowing Bill's association with the campaign and concluded that she is cold, calculated, power hungry, divisive and ambitious; they are NOT going to change their mind just b/c of the DMR editorial board or Dave Yepsen. This endorsement will do absolutely nothing to Clinton.

So the race remains where it was. It could have hurt Obama if they supported Edwards but I don't believe that either. Edwards is already a known quantity in IA for 7 years and those who support him seems like they are repeat, loyal supporters mostly from 2004 and not much new excitement there.

The expereience thing as a rational for Register's endorsement does not fly though. Last year, Edwards was one time senator with no previous involvement in politics, the nation was in war and they could endorse him instead of Kerry or Gephardt. This year, on experience, they could endorse Biden or Dodd if they really meant experience as an objective criteria. So when they claim they did not think about who stand where in IA or in polls when they decided the endorsement, it does not make sense. It's sad that these pundits always cry that the US government is beholden to special interest too much and yet when they have an honest, smart, intellignet and confident man who can inspire the whole nation in the middle of all these domestic and international crisis, they can't show the backbone to embrace him. Plain SAD.

Obama's candidacy is one of insurgent's, challenging establishment and status quo and relying SOLELY on people, for financial supports and votes. That's where we the Obama supporters will keep our faith on. If people across the country believe in him and reject the washington politicians to take charge of the country for the next 4 years, then Dem establishment and/or thousands of DMR editorial boards can't stop him. One thing it says though, so called professional pundits are detached from lives, dreams and aspirations of ordinary citizens.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

ace p washington, d.c. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:06:26 GMT

this endorsement was important in iowa. it has proven to sway the support balance of the caucus in iowa. i am not a hillary supporter unless she wins the nomination. i would turn my support to her then.
i wil not insult anyones intelligence by saying this endorsement is not important. hillary needed this. she was in trouble. this could possibly help her win iowa or at least place second. if she doesn't place first or second after this then she will be in for a up hill climb. right now she and her supporters should be congratulated.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Nashville_fan — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:10:21 GMT

Yay Hillary! You won the endorsement! Woo hoo!

Is that better csh? :)

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Patty Morlan, Louisville, KY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:12:33 GMT

This was my post at the Des Moines Register.

As an Edwards supporter I'm very disappointed that the Register did not endorse Edwards but I'm really not surprised. Edwards comments at the Des Moines Register debate about corporate greed probably didn't go over very well in the Gannett boardroom especially when the undecided voters in the CNN & Fox focus group reacted so favorably towards them. I do, however, disagree with the Register's opinion that Edwards would not be able to work with the business community. Most of our businesses are good corporate citizens. The only ones that would have a problem with Edwards are the ones that value profit more than they value their own country.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Ellis B. Kingman,Az. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:15:32 GMT

Is anyone surprised? The endorsement of Clinton is understadable in so far as the D.M.R is a subsidiary of corporate America who has paid for Hillarys loyalty should she become president. Neither Edwards or Obama are accepting campaign donations from corporate lobbyist. Apparently trust is more important to Edwards and Obama than is corporate endorsements.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

KT, IL — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:41:16 GMT

Obama is still the man, Madame is using her hubby clouts, een DMR is endorsing it.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Rose, Palisades Park, NJ — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:41:57 GMT

Thanks Gregory. You nailed it.Here is prudence and pragmatism.

America needs a leader with determination,experience and strength; a decision maker; a champion for the less fortunate; a fighter for democracy and freedom who is respected across the globe and; a person who is not afraid to tackle issues in a bipartisan manor.

We are faced with a time for action to restore the image and dignity of this great nation. Hillary will work hard to achieve both. She is known and respected. She has shown us that she is capable.

Thanks Demoine Register for endorsing the best candidate.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Prof Woman, Indiana — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 04:59:42 GMT

Just one more "acheivement" for Hillary that she wouldn't have gotten without Bill.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Lynne, Little Rock, Arkansas — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 05:14:20 GMT

Hey there Bee 4 and Bee after -
You are wrong about the Dope Smoking, Muslim rooted,
inexperienced, and crooked Osama, Obama.- See Article below about his buddy the Mafioso slum Lord Rezco.

Hooray for the Des Moines Register!! They see the whole truth about honesty and experience and that will influence voters in Iowa.
PLEASE EXPLAIN THIS REZCO AND OBAMA ASSOCIATION.
DOES THAT EQUATE TO HONESTY AND TRUSTWORTHINESS?
"I DON'T THINK SO"!!!!!!!!

Obama buys Rezko land
Over the years, Rezko, Mahru, their wives and businesses have given more than $50,000 to Obama's campaign funds, records show. And Rezko has helped raise millions more.
Rezko was among the people Obama appointed to serve on his U.S. Senate campaign finance committee, the Sun-Times reported in 2003. The committee raised more than $14 million, according to Federal Election Commission records, helping send Obama to Washington in 2004.

As a U.S. senator, Obama grew closer to Rezko.

Two years ago, Obama bought a mansion on the South Side, in the Kenwood neighborhood, from a doctor. On the same day, Rezko's wife, Rita Rezko, bought the vacant lot next door from the same seller. The doctor had listed the properties for sale together. He sold the house to Obama for $300,000 below the asking price. The doctor got his asking price on the lot from Rezko's wife.

Last year, Rita Rezko sold a strip of that vacant lot to Obama for $104,500 -- a deal Obama later apologized for, acknowledging that people might think he got a favor from Rezko. Obama called the episode "boneheaded'' and a "mistake.''

At the time Obama bought that strip of land, it had been reported that Rezko was under federal investigation for influence-peddling involving the administration of Blagojevich, whose campaign also received Rezko's financial support.

Rezko has since been indicted for allegedly demanding kickbacks from companies seeking state business under Blagojevich. Rezko's trial has been postponed while investigators sort through his finances

HOPEFULLY "OSAMA, OBAMA" WILL BE INDICTED RIGHT ALONG WITH REZKO AND WE WILL GET RID OF HIM IN OUR POLITICAL SYSTEM. HE AND RUDY ARE THE WORST OF THE LOT,BOTH OF THEM DISHONEST AND CROOKED!!!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Stephen Cassidy, San Leandro, CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:01:17 GMT

Whom do you trust to end the Iraq war? Candidate A or B.

Candidate A pledges to end the war but has no plan whatsoever to do so. Instead, Candidate A intends to study the issue after taking office. Candidate A relies upon advisers that support the surge and see a U.S. presence in Iraq continuing for a decade. Candidate A refuses to commit to bringing all U.S. troops home by 2013.

Candidate B says as long as U.S. troops are stationed in Iraq reconciliation among the Iraqi factions will not occur. Candidate B pledges to bring all U.S. troops home within one year of taking office and has offered a realistic plan to achieve this. Candidate B is being advised by military and diplomatic experts, including former generals, that have been highly critical of the U.S. intervention in the Iraq and strongly advocate a prompt exit from Iraq.

Candidate A is Hillary Clinton; candidate B is Bill Richardson.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

bridget Corrigan — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:05:41 GMT

Hillary deserves the indorsement. She is the one who said she would work across the isle, and take care of the middle class, children and education,and cut the taxes on the rich. She has my family's support. We wish you luck

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

bridget Corrigan — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:07:10 GMT

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

undecided Anaheim CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:11:23 GMT

Here is best to-the-point analysis of Obama, who , what, why,How and where.
This is from an blogger who has great depth of understanding and reasoning.
"
Obama has not been attacked once by the main stream media and the vrwc has barely even taken notice of him. He has not been vetted in the cauldron of political attack and destroy. But - if he was chosen to be our nominee…that would surely change.
Without going to Google, just off the top of my head, the following list is comprised of "issues" that I KNOW that talk radio and the right would go after Obama on. There is no doubt that many of these "stories" and "issues" would migrate from the Rush world to the main stream media.
My question is - do you actually think Obama could win in November after 8 months of post primaries investigation, attack and abuse on subjects like these?
It would be so easy for the GOP - here's the initial Obama radio topic rundown:
-the man wants to BAN making guns
-the man wants to BAN selling guns
-the man wants to BAN - YOU owning guns
-he’s against the death penalty
-he wants to let crack heads out of jail - NOW!
-he wants to let illegal aliens on your roads to kill your kids
-he wants to let MORE illegal’s into the USA to lower your wages
-he smoked pot
-he snorted cocaine
-he took extasy
-he was in the same room as 'HEROIN"!
-he wants to raise YOUR taxes by 1 TRILLION bucks!
-he was a college instructor/professor/lefty
-he was/is a HARVARD lawyer
-he IS the Chicago Daley machine
-Rezko!
-the company his wife is on the board of - killed a town
-he goes to a church who's rector hates whites
-his brothers are both in the nation of Islam
-Rezko, Rezko, Rezko!
-his wife got a $200 G raise from a Hospital when he got elected
-his grandma has no electric or water-and he seems ok with that
-his first name is "barack"
-his middle name is "hussein"
-his last name is "obama"
-he doesnt LOOK like you
-he is a liberal democrat
-he is a radical
-wall street financiers like him - why?
- who the heck were his parents, grandparents, his "people"
-as a kid he seems to have told everyone he would 1 day be prez
-he says he's of a "new kind of politics" but his history says NO
-at Harvard he seems to have told everyone that1 day he'd be prez
-Young Hollywood likes him
-will smith says he’s gonna be the NEXT black Prez
-he told his future brother in law on the FIRST day he met him that 1 day he would be prez
-OPRAH!
-how can he understand YOUR lives?
-he sends his kids to fancy schools you couldn’t afford
-the 1st day he was in the senate he had a meeting about how to set a plan to 1 day become the president
-he says he's experienced enough for the WH because he "studied" international relations in college.
-he says he's experienced enough for the WH because he lived in Indonesia when he was six
-he actually said those last two things with a straight face.
-can he be trusted to stop the Muslims who want to kill your kids
-who IS this guy. really?
By holdencaulfield

"

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

MK, Los Angeles, California — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:13:41 GMT

Perhaps when people actually read the endorsement itself they will realize that it was a "soft endorsement." But for the tag line at the end the Register's endorsement looked like split endorsement of both Obama and Clinton. Given this type of endorsement I really do not see this doing much to change the dynamics in Iowa or boost Clinton that much. Just read what they had to say about Obama:

Barack Obama, senator, Illinois

He’s smart. He’s crafted sharp policy proposals. He’s worked across the aisle as both an Illinois state senator and in the U.S. Senate. He’s done solid work on needed but thankless legislation such as requiring videotaping of police interrogations in capital-punishment cases in Illinois and reforming ethics laws at the state and federal levels. In the U.S. Senate, he’s burnished his foreign-policy credentials on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

So there’s far more to Barack Obama than inspiring oratory, his optimistic messages of hope and change, and his symbolism of youth and multiculturalism. Take all of that as a package, and oh the possibilities. His election would signal to all Americans, especially young black men, that our nation still holds opportunities for them. And it would signal to the world that America is more attuned to the international community. Obama says it like this: From the day I’m elected, this country will look at itself differently, and the world will look at us differently.

One board member described the case for Obama in the Clinton vs. Obama discussion as a bank shot versus a straight shot in pool. Success is less certain with a bank shot, but the gamble (in this case for a more cohesive, hopeful country) might be worth it.

Another veteran editorial writer described the choice as similar to picking Franklin Delano Roosevelt, a calculating but masterful politician at maneuvering needed legislation through Congress, versus John F. Kennedy, whose youthful vigor inspired the nation to take on new challenges. That’s not a bad choice.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Rev. Dewey Leon Everts Jr., Santa Barbara California — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:20:50 GMT

THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON TO ENDORSE HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT IS THE WRITER OF THIS LETTER, BECAUSE SHE GETS MY VOTE. AND A VOTE IS BETTER THAN AN ENDORSEMENT ANY DAY.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Virgil, LV, NV — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:24:49 GMT

On the republican side I hope DMR got it right. McCain is a man that I admire, although strongly disagree with his foreign policy. He is candid with his position and unwavering in his convictions. He has the experience and is well respected.
The Clinton endorsement I find to be a surprise. NO... I am not anti-Clinton, but after re-evaluation of "ALL" of the debates, her actions in the senate, and recalling her time as First Lady, I see her as a very good "politician".
The situation the "Bush" administration has created leaves America little room for error, and NO room for political rhetoric.
Obama is a very intelligent man, and will be a good future president.
We are at war with increasing tension in the middle east and I am sure the present administration has no intent to change policy. We have a middle class that is finding it difficult to maintain the standard of living it had even two years ago. This election MUST be about fixing America.
I believe we need a person with "real" experience, common sense, and a reasonable resolve to our world situation. I am sorry to say that unlike the democrats here, if the choice is Sen. Clinton vs Sen. McCain, I will reluctantly vote for McCain.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

mike — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:33:59 GMT

I knew the DMR had some weird calculation about their endorsement plans based on the comments their reporters were making in past few days. I will share what I wrote before the endorsement came through.

"I would not hold my breath expecting endorsement from the Register writers if the comments made by Yepsen and another reporter named Beaumont is any indication.

Yesterday, on Hardball Yepsen was simply ridiculous. He didn't even agree that it was a mistake for Shaheen to smear Obama. He thought it should have been done months ago so that people could digest it. He also lumped Hillary and Obama together for negative campaigning and how Iowans don't like it and David Gregory of NBC thankfully interjected that the attack was one sided and Obama had "stayed above the fray". Few days ago Yepsen was also making noise about Obama openly encouraging college students to caucus and in the same piece mentioning that it was perfecly legal to do so and Obama is not the first one to do it and further requiring Obama to apply a different standard.

Then, there was Mr Beaumont on CSPAN after the debate suggesting Hillary was the one who looked polished and rested etc. and when he talked about "top teir" mentioned just Hillary and Edwards. He was the exception among dozens of pundits whose impression were that Hillary was the only one trying hard to make up lost grounds while the other candidates were relaxed and comfortable.

When I see these ridiculous, sorry comments it makes me think they are just looking for excuses not to endorse this otherwise admirable movement(Obama's). I hope I am wrong"

I was right and it was a bad decision by the DMR. I don't think it will have the intended effect.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Peter Mandzych, Bay Shore, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 06:45:56 GMT

To all posting on this blog and to the voters of Iowa,

Do not base your judgement on the endorsement of Hillary Clinton by the DMR. This election will be based on real change. The country is tired of the the politics of perception and division that took place during the Bush/Clinton years. This election is similar to the Presidential Election of 1968. The times that we face today in the country are similar to those in '68. The country is polarized today as was the case 40 years ago and the chief candidates for President are just as similar as was the case back then. Today the Clinton's and President Bush play the same role to the electorate as did Lyndon Johnson (LBJ) in 1968. Barrack Obama and John Edwards remind us of the candidacy of Robert Kennedy and Eugene McCarthy respectively 40 years ago. Despite Hillary Clinton's endorsement by the DMR, the country's desire for change and the voters displeasure with negative campaigning and the deception with her so-called "experience" and agency for change have put this candidate in serious danger of losing the nomination which parallels LBJ's failed candidacy of 1968. Mark my word.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Sam — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 07:01:51 GMT

At least the DeMoines Register is consistent. They endorsed two experienced candidates.

The Boston Globe endorsed Obama inexpienced but a fresh face but they turned around and endorsed a very experienced candidate, John Mc Cain.

It seems to me that the Globe canceled out their reason for endorsement. Obama and McCain???

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Peter Mandzych, Bay Shore, NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 07:12:14 GMT

To All posting on this blog and to the voters of Iowa,

AMENDED
Do not base your judgement on the endorsement of Hillary Clinton by the DMR. This election will be based on real change. The country is tired
of the politics of perception and division that took place during the Bush/Clinton years. This election is similar to the Presidential Election of 1968. The times that we face today in the country are
similar to those in '68. The country is polarized today as was the case 40 years ago and the chief candidates for President are just as similar
as was the case back then. Today the Clinton's and President Bush play the same role to the electorate as did Lyndon Johnson (LBJ) in 1968. Barrack Obama and John Edwards remind us of the candidacy of Robert
Kennedy and Eugene McCarthy respectively 40 years ago. Despite Hillary Clinton's endorsement by the DMR, the country's desire for change and the voters displeasure with negative campaigning as well as this deception with her so-called "experience" and agency for change have put this candidate in serious danger of losing the nomination.

Hillary Clinton's candidacy is now in the same position to fail as LBJ's candidacy failed in 1968. Mark my word.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

S.K.M. Mass — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 07:18:42 GMT

Considering the fact that the DMR consistantly picks losers to receive their endorsement, I couldn't care much less.

Interesting factoid; the Clinton campaign pressed hardest for that endorsement. Even Bill was dispatched to try and sway them. Their justifications for her receiving the endorsement(which were Hillary's empty talking points) call their investigative abilities into question, or rather their integrity into question. Oh, and the entire DMR board is currently women. Hrm.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Stop Clinton, CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 07:25:58 GMT

The Des Moines Register has always been a rag. Now that it is run by femi-nazis, it was predictable that they would select one of their own. Clinton is a disgrace to America. She and her husband sold America to the highest bidder through NAFTA and their corporate buddies. The Chinese funds never seem to end for her, until the other TSU (shoe) drops.
The Iowa regional newspapers are more in tune with their constituencies. I would be more interested in seeing who the Waterloo Courier, The Cedar Rapids Gazette, or the Quad Cities Times supports.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Kevin, SF CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 07:51:16 GMT

Is HRC really "ready to lead"? I would think Biden would be way better since he has, and continues to, lead. Biden, Obama, and Dodd supporters are all very similar and would support each other. We tend to, however, have deep reservations about our misleading, disingenuous frontrunner.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Mike K, Denver — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 08:00:46 GMT

Congrats to Hillary getting the Des Moines Register endorsement tonight. Considering that they have their recent history dating back to 1988 of selecting the person not to win the Iowa caucus, I am proud of this accomplishment for her and her inept campaign. I will welcome her 3rd place finish in the state on January 3rd. Again, Congrats!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Sam, Stockholm — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 10:13:46 GMT

http://www.charlierose.com/shows/2006/10/19/1/an-hour-with-senator-barack-obama

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

eNews Reference, Dover NH — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 10:19:13 GMT

In hindsight Bill Clinton might be saying Hillary Clinton should’ve never went to Iowa. The truth of the matter is there’s a chance that she might come in third in Iowa and she could’ve pulled third without even going. http://www.enewsreference.wordpress.com

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

steve daytona — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 11:16:47 GMT

waaa waaaa waaaaa! like i said in the earlier report contemplating who would get the nod from the DMR, all the obama supporters - right along with these wannabe reporters from firstread - would find some reason to bash the decision to endorse the right person...Hillary Clinton. now just consider what these posts would have said had obama gotten the nod...ohhh this is the top paper in iowa and this is proof that hillary can't win, this is proof that her campaign is over, blah, blah, blah. sour grapes for the obama supporters. and what is with the whinning about anything that anybody says about him? people can't criticize his policies or his shortcomings without him and all his supporters crying about how he is being unfairly attacked. when in reality, he has been the most vicious, sniveling, spoiled little brat in the entire field of candidates. who wants a cry baby for president? certainly not me. waaaa waaaaa waaaa.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

venda wells, ft. myers, fl — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 11:21:40 GMT

we need Hillary to run our country. Thanks for the endorsement. She will make us proud.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Andrew Lietzow, Des Moines, IA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 12:07:51 GMT

HRC will lead us out of the Bush/Cheney mess and back into the impeaching of a President process, and into a war with Iran. If she is the nominee, the Republicans will regain control of the Congress and continue to enjoy control of the Oval Office.

Hillary's campaign is in trouble for a good reason -- her politics is a Bush-lite politics. If you like how things are going, vote for HRC. If you want real change, if you've had enough, then you go with Obama. Thank God the Iowa people were already way ahead of the DMR on this. 33%-24%-24%.

Didn't they also endorse Walter Mondale, who lost to Reagan 525-13? And Paul Simon, Bill Bradley, John Edwards -- none of whom enjoyed any time as President? Nominating HRC will destroy our chance at the Oval Office, mark my words.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Southern Lady, Arkansas — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 13:52:56 GMT

OBAMA SUPPORTERS, PLEASE TELL ME HOW THIS KIND OFF ASSOCIATION FROM OBAMA IS ETHICAL AND MAKES HIM A QUALIFIED HONEST, CANDIDATE.

Obama buys Rezko land
Over the years, Rezko, Mahru, their wives and businesses have given more than $50,000 to Obama's campaign funds, records show. And Rezko has helped raise millions more.
Rezko was among the people Obama appointed to serve on his U.S. Senate campaign finance committee, the Sun-Times reported in 2003. The committee raised more than $14 million, according to Federal Election Commission records, helping send Obama to Washington in 2004.

As a U.S. senator, Obama grew closer to Rezko.

Two years ago, Obama bought a mansion on the South Side, in the Kenwood neighborhood, from a doctor. On the same day, Rezko's wife, Rita Rezko, bought the vacant lot next door from the same seller. The doctor had listed the properties for sale together. He sold the house to Obama for $300,000 below the asking price. The doctor got his asking price on the lot from Rezko's wife.

Last year, Rita Rezko sold a strip of that vacant lot to Obama for $104,500 -- a deal Obama later apologized for, acknowledging that people might think he got a favor from Rezko. Obama called the episode "boneheaded'' and a "mistake.''

At the time Obama bought that strip of land, it had been reported that Rezko was under federal investigation for influence-peddling involving the administration of Blagojevich, whose campaign also received Rezko's financial support.

Rezko has since been indicted for allegedly demanding kickbacks from companies seeking state business under Blagojevich. Rezko's trial has been postponed while investigators sort through his finances

Thank you Des Moines Register for endorsing the best candidate for our country, Senator Clinton

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 14:27:38 GMT

The media has helped build Obama up bigtime, I think it is intersting that the media saw almost no way Clinton could score the big endorsemnt.

But she did.

The fact is Obama is a "star". No doubt. But Americans are not going to elect a star to the White House. Not in troubled times.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Jodi, Denver, CO — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 14:51:22 GMT

Having grown up in (& left) Iowa, this is a pattern I am familiar with. The "average" Iowan wants certain things in a candidate, which the Register reports on fairly well, but the Register then ignores it's own reporting & endorses the candidate that they believe will keep Iowa relevant in this entire process. What they don't understand is that by picking the BEST choice, not the one they think the rest of the nation wants them to pick, they would be doing more for their relevancy than this. Hillary Clinton is unelectable in our current culture of divisiveness; & if her leanings toward the negative & suggestions of mud-slinging actually come to pass, she won't even win Iowa & it's whopping 8 electoral votes come November. Considering the Register's recent history of picks, I would be very worried if I were Senator Clinton, this endorsement seems a bit of a curse.
Perhaps there will be a time when Senator Clinton finds herself, becomes more real & less, I'm sorry, slick, and this country will be in a better place to see her experiences as an asset. Right now, she will not win a general election & I can't stand the thought of 4 more years of the Republican status quo.
As my 8 year old says: Barack Rocks!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Anthony, New Jersey — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 14:57:20 GMT

Please, someone, anyone, tell me what 'accomplishments' Hillary has achieved.

While you are at it, can you also explain how she has more 'experience' when Obama has been in elected office for a longer period of time.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Chelse C. — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:00:46 GMT

PLEASE COME AND JOIN IN ON THE CONVERSATION............ hillaryclinton.com

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Lenora Carver, Tonganoxie, KS — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:00:59 GMT

To say the DMR endorsed Mrs.Clinton because it has 6 out 7 women on its board is an insult to the strong women holding those positions and to HRC! To be able to endorse and vote is one of the major freedoms of this country. HRC will make a fantastic president she has the backbone, knowledge and belief to clean up this mess the current administration has placed this country in. Obama and Edwards neither one have the experience she does and remember she has been in the white house as the spouse of a wnderful past president one that left this country in really good shape. Unfortunately we now have a boob in the white house and it will take a Clinton to clean up the boobs mess AGAIN.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

JOE CLAYTON GA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:05:43 GMT

I just read an a piece that was about Bill Clinton talked about Obama on PBS. Well it just sickened me the way the Clintons are playing their dirty crap about obamas time in the senate. What is wrong with the american people when they dont stand up to the Clintons and shut them up. Her royal hiness isnt such a hot canidate for president. He and she is as bad as carl rove. All their dirty tricks in the press and say that they had nothing to do with them, when everyone knows they are behind them. Obama is a good man and to talk about his experience she isnt experienced either. Just because she was first lady doesnt give her the experience to run this country any more than Obama. She doesnt live with bill clinton because he probably is playing around on her still after being president. wonder who she is having fun with?. the BUSHES WERE BAD ENOUGH DONT NEED 12 YEARS OF HER.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

mike, dallas, TX — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:14:01 GMT

A CHALLENGE TO "FIRST READ" REPORTERS

We like that you try to inform us developments "First" so that we keep up with what is going on. However, there is so much competition on the internet that if you don't report it we will still get it somewhere else. That means you have to go a step farther to distinguish your site from the others. That will be for example following up stories and getting the real inside story of the report.

For example with this story on DMR endorsement it requires further examination because it is odd. So, I like to see a piece similar to "ANATOMY OF AN ENDORSEMENT".

If the endorsement was based on the best campaign ran it should have been Obama(I am biased but a lot of people even who do not support him agree).
I can also understand why they could have endorsed Edwards;that will be acknowledgment of persistently campaigning and knowing their people in their state. Biden or Richardson, I could say they wanted to give candidates who couldn't brake out to get a chance to be noticed.

But Hillary? This is a campaign that didn't believe in the importance of Iowa and only came back to the state after a second thought. They cted in front of the Iowa people that she was special,only waiting to be coronated rather than convince them why she deserves to be nominated.Despite money and organization they lost momentum instead of gaining momentum because they were not convincing. We were told Iowans don't like negativism but for the last few weeks as the polls tightened her campaign has become the most negative and the sleaziest. So, why endorse Hillary?

Was their some arm twisting and hard ball by Bill and the campaign? Was there some sweet deal? What was it?

A good reporting will get to the bottom of it and try to make sense out of this odd development.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Jim P, Kalamazoo, MI — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:16:20 GMT

Well the endorsement of Hillary Clinton certainly will stir some debate...but I, for one, appreciate the logic behind their choice and happen to agree with their assessment. I appreciate the fact that the editorial board had opportunity to actually sit down with these candidates and hear them one-on-one. They've taken the time to truly know the difference between these candidates.

Sadly, most of America will make their choice for President based on 10 second sound bites. While I appreciate the relative value of endorsements (celebrity, media or otherwise), wouldn't it be nice if we all took the time to listen to an entire speech or read a candidate's entire position paper and make truly informed choices on our own.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Y. Lomas Brown — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:32:27 GMT

FR === The Register's endorsement has been particularly influential on the Democratic side. ==

Democrats are so easily led.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Mary Anne, Potomac, MD — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:48:09 GMT

Note to First Read - Your lead sentence on this topic is very misleading! The Des Moines Register endorsement has NOT been influential on the Democratic side in campaigns going back 20 years.

They have endorsed losers in 2004, 2000, and 1988. ( The Des Moines Register endorsed Edwards - not the winner of the caucuses, Kerry, in 2004; Bradley - not the winner, Gore, in 2000; and Simon - not the winner, Gephardt, in 1988) No one challenged Tom Harkin - Iowa's favorite son - in 1992; and Clinton had no challenge in 1996. So, HOW can you say they are particularly influential when they have gotten it wrong since 1988?? Sloppy work - you should be more careful in your editing.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Dot, Illinois — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:50:34 GMT

This is an interesting endorsement. They cite Senator Obama's lack of experience but yet overlook candidates (Senator Biden, for one) who have much more experience than Senator Clinton.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

mike, dallas, TX — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:55:55 GMT

On the last debate the moderator (apparently one of the 3 people on the editorial board) took Iraq and immigration off the table in advance. could this have something to do with their intention of endorsing Hillary and McCain by protecting them from their perceieved weaknesses- McCain on immigration on the republican side and Hillary on the war on the democratic side? just a thought. It doesn't make sense to have a DEBATE without discussing the most pressing issues on each side except now in hind sight you see why that was the case.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Rufus Gibbons, DC — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:00:47 GMT

Clinton will get a boost from this and may go on to win the caucus which might or might not help in New Hampshire since the two are so close together. If I were running I would opt out of the Iowa caucus because when you win it you have what? Not one delegate locked up you have what bush 41 called the big mo. Iowa is the "Mouse that Roared" they take in scads of money and in return give precious little. I was chuckling as I read the posts thinking how each anti post would have been different if their candidate had been selected. As for the Coked up Florida tangerine picker I am sure you have a bright future as a ploitical analyst.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Lauren, CT — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:05:13 GMT

I think the DMR's analysis of what we need in a presidential candidate makes a lot of sense. These times are tough, so good traits to look for in a candidate are experience and strength. With the rationale DMR employed, however, the Democratic candidate they ought to have endorsed was Biden.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:08:55 GMT

"They made the correct choice - Hillary is the one ready to lead us out of the Bush/Cheney mess! This board met with and was wooed by all of the candidates and they chose the BEST - Hillary Clinton!!!"

What about Biden? How can you possibly compare Hillary's experience with Biden's? How? Tell me how she is more ready than Biden.

She may be more ready than Obama and Edward but against Biden she is, at best, an intern.

WAKE UP DEMOCRATS.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Sean — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:11:32 GMT

I say congrats to Hillary and Obama. I am not going to trash Obama (as Hillary is my candidate of choice) for getting the Globe's endorsment. I am a bit surprised, but rather than trashing him (as Bee has done for Hillary) for getting the nomination - I say good for him. (and sure, I'd rather it went to Hillary, but I'm not going to try to diminish it by trying to say it won't matter or provide lame reasons for why he got it).

Bee: you let your true colors shine in stuff like this. So much for politics as unusual. You are the biggest mudslinger and hater on here.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Sean — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:16:15 GMT

Bee: funny how you claim that the reason she got this was that it was 3 women on the editorial board, but then you berate her for playing the woman card. What a hypocrite.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Nancy Abraham — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:21:19 GMT

Incredible, I guess Hillary Clinton proved that you can go negative in the great state of Iowa and still get the endorsement of the very newspaper that has told us over and over again that Iowans do not vote for candidates that throw mud. The Clinton campaign sent lies about Obama's religion over the internet, made jokes about him as a kindergarten student and basically called him a drug dealer. If that is what the Register thinks is being capable then I have a problem with their thinking and their endorsement just lost a lot of credibility.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Ralph Weinsheink, Hollywood, FL — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:26:35 GMT

"SIMPLE SIMON SEZ" and THAT'S IT? Forget about this nonsense....these two newspapes in IOWA mean absolutely nothing to me and others in my corner of the world....which is mainstream AMERICA, right here in the good old United States. IOWA means CORN, just CORN....and insofar as the Des Moines Register is concerned, well, I'll go so far as to suggest that they change their name to the Des Moines "Cash Register." Who got to this newspaper? They want to "play ball" with the Corporate Power in the USA...that's the same as saying "Our Arm Was Twisted" - so, we're not going to stand up to power, lawfully, legally and challenge the gross discrepancies that exist between wealth, power and povery, and distress. Take a Brooklyn, NY hike Des Moines Register, and to add insult to injury, I hope you freeze your cookies off this winter, no injuries, just freeze your cookies off - SIMPLE SIMON NEVER INFLUENCED ME and OTHERS THAT I KNOW. YOU CAVED Des Moines Register, you're a Jellyfish!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Chuck, san D — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:30:46 GMT

I'm enjoying all the whining from the BO fanatics.

at least you have something in common with your canidate...

mutual whining when the going gets rough.

he's not ready.the gop would tear him apart

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Maxine Schnall, Fort Lauderdale, Florida — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:31:39 GMT

No matter how they deny it, this agonized-over endorsement is a sharp stick in the eye to all the rabid Hillary-haters and gushy Obama-lovers whose passion for change has blinded them to the fact that Hillary is a doer and Obama is a talker. She has credibility, and he has charisma. To vote for him, as Bill Clinton has said, is to "roll the dice with America."

Given the disgraceful anti-Hillary and pro-Obama media bias that has been the hallmark of this campaign, consistently trashing Hillary for being negative and making small fumbles while giving Obama a free pass for the very same things, God bless the Des Moines Register for having the objectivity and guts to see through the hype and endorse the right candidate for the job. Hopefully, it will help Hillary regain the momentum her detractors have been working so hard to kill. Given all of Obama's advantages--being a Senator from a neighboring state, the Oprah hoopla, using questioable tactics to have out-of-towners take over the caucus, etc.-- even if Hillary comes in second it will be a victory.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Marcus, Chicago — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:40:21 GMT

In four years' time, there'll be another round of stories on the eve of the DMR endorsement -noting that it endorsed Clinton, who then failed to win the Iowa caucuses, just like her DMR endorsed predecessors.

Worth considering the relative numbers, too. Circulation of the Sunday Globe? 550,000. The Des Moines Register? 230,000. Big difference in the number of eyes in the number of states the Globe endorsement will reach. Longer term, Clinton losing NH would be bigger news than Clinton winning in Iowa.

Congrats to McCain, though. We can only hope that enough Republicans wake up to the weirdness of having a new front-runner who hadn't heard about the NIE report on Iran a couple weeks back, and who believes the earth is literally just 6,000 years old. We've had one Republican president who didn't let facts get in the way of his thinking; we really don't need his party nominating another.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

John Altshuler, Eugene, Oregon — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:40:51 GMT

Listening and watching Tim Russert's interview with Mitt Romney this morning one thing becomes pattently clear. From my perspective, Mr. Romney presents himself as a slick, arrogant politician. From what he has said when juxtaposed with what he says now, watching his eyes and body language and the self-absorbed tone with which he makes his delivery all point to just another run of the mill political liar...a right-wing wolf in sheep's clothing. Beware the WOLF! Let the Nation be very cautious about electing a president based on looks, smiles and fast-talking and back-pedeling alone. Not to mention that based on the past 8 years as well as many other parallels throught history, we don't need another smug religious conservative in a leadership position. Such an event would only speed the downward spiral of America and justify the behavior of other far right radical regimes such as Iran and others well known. None of this is within the intentions of our "far and forward thinking" forefathers.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

The Outlander — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 16:41:31 GMT

An endorsement this early in the race gives due and sufficient reason to believe The Des Moines Register was bought by Clinton, Inc. Perhaps MSNBC.com should take time out from writing fluff and factually inadequate wetwork and research the matter. But that will not happen because MSNBC.COM was bought off by Clinton, Inc. a long time ago.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Gail, CA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 17:11:59 GMT

Considering the DMR's past choices, looks like a death kiss to Hillary!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Jack, Greenville, SC — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 17:29:03 GMT

The Register has good things to say about Obama, even as they do not endorse. The Boston Globe endorses Obama. Sounds like a less than stellar nod for Clinton. Also, their argument is that they don't see enough "experience" yet for Obama, but they endorsed Edwards when he was in his first (and only) term as a Senator. So, that doesn't seem to make for the strongest argument on their part.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 17:37:47 GMT

The most predictable endorsement ever!!! Three women sitting on the editorial board should be no brainier. Even their justification of the endorsement is Clinton's talking point memo. What a joke?

Good for you Hillary; let see how you turn it to vote.

Bee, NH (Sent Saturday, December 15, 2007 9:18 PM)

Out of curiosity, if the editorial board had been solely made up of black men and Obama got the endorsement, would you be as dismissive of it?

Somehow, I doubt it.

Not everyone considers gender and only gender. It seems the people who fixate on that the most are the people that DON'T like Hillary and use that to dismiss pretty much everyone who supports her.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 17:43:11 GMT

I don't know what, if any, effect the DMR endorsement will have. I am disappointed, as someone else noted, that they didn't choose the most obvious candidate with experience and readiness to lead - Joe Biden. If that was the criteria they used, they missed their mark.

And to whomever said the DMR is a bunch of drunk pig farmers...way to show your ignorance.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

MK, Los Angeles, California — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 17:44:53 GMT

I think the DMR's ability to "move votes" is dependent upon it being in touch with the voters in the state. I just do not see any movement on the ground toward Clinton. Indeed, the precise opposite is true (they had to bus in supporters to one of her rallies last week because it was so sparsely attended). People have been abandoning her. The reason why the 2004 DMR endorsement mattered was because it was in sync with Iowa voters; there was a groundswell moving towards Edwards and the DMR picked up on it. Here, it would seem that the DMR is trying to go against what the voters on the ground in Iowa are expressing. In this respect, its endorsement should not be overvalued; it will not generate the same result as its 2004 endorsement did for Edwards simply because that endorsement did not create the groundswell for Edwards, it just reflected it. You cannot make something from nothing and that appears to be what the DMR endorsement tonight is trying to do.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Bethany, St. Louis, MO — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 18:08:35 GMT

No worries, Obama's still going to win it all!

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

HMT-MI — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 18:27:14 GMT

I will be proud to cast my vote for any Democrat----they are all head and shoulders above the neo-con Bushies---except for Ron Paul.If I were a republican Paul would get my vote.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

J Synesael Newark,NY — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 19:24:54 GMT

How unfortunate are we as Americans? We can use the war and every canidates decision to back or not to back it...thats just one of many questions..We've always helped out for Democracy's namesake in the world..America in its quest whether it be self serving or not there isn't a canidate whom is going to be perfect.In todays politics, its no longer about integrity, hardwork and sacrifice christian values, in promoting the flourishment and growth on which our country was built upon..
We are losing who we are as a country and obviously the quest for the presidency and its no holds barr in smearing one another..Keeps everyone from facing the fact that this country is in trouble..economically and morally..."The old cliche' do as the romans did" we know what happened to that empire....God Bless this country and for those of you who reading this we need to pray for a canidate that will serve America with the same zest love and christian values it once possessed...The Dmr in Iowa is only a speck of sand in which a mountain of issues we face everyday........
The war monetarily is hurting our economy and I'm not A Bush fan but I am a fan of humanity..Whether or not the reasons for the war have materialized.. it is certain the atrocities that the Iraqi people were subjected to daily were quite inhumane.We have stood up for that regardless of the cost...Thats what makes us America right wrong or indifferent....For decades other countries have made snowballs in wars America is the one to throw them....Thats why we are different but, if we cannot choose a presidential canidate by the fruits of their labour...and only by popular vote.......We are in more trouble than the Iraqi people are........

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Kaye Miller, WA — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 20:07:04 GMT

As boring endorsement as their "debates" - seems like a bit of a back handed endorsement when their comments about Obama are far more positive than they are about the endorsed candidate. They are lacking courage and I doubt their endorsement has as much weight after those embarrassingly dull debates, with their librarian lady editor moderating.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

Rosemary, Simi Valley, Calif — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:51:41 GMT

The endorsement of Hillary by the DMR is another coronation of the wrong person again. The term ready to lead is laughable at best.

I cannot in all honesty vote for anyone who willy nilly voted for the Iraq war withoug serious study or the Kyl-Leiberman Resolution. Common DMR, get real. I hope the voters of Iowa think for themselves, and seriously make an effort to pick someone who truly understands leadership by leading and not through someone else's credentials.

Clinton, McCain win Register nod

phillyinpa, new castle,pa. — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 17:57:55 GMT

how can anyone with any intelligence whatsoever even think about voting for barack obama. what does anyone know about this guy. other than serving ONE YEAR in the senate, just what else qualifies him to run the most powerful country in the world. would you really feel safe if he has to confront putin of russia, ahmadinajad of iran, il of north korea and other powerful villans in this world. he would shake in his boots and would cave to the pressure. he has absolutely no idea what this job entails and would be in way over his head. also, please do not take his childhood and his islamic association so lightly. the other candidates are afraid to bring this to the forefront thinking it will make them look like mud slingers, but it must come to the attention of all americans. the islamic community would like nothing better than for obama to win the presidency. this country would then belong to them. please make your decision based on who is ready to do the job from day one and the person who you would feel safe with in defending this country. it sure isn't obama. i would be scared to death with him as our leader. clinton or edwards are your best choices, and remember, with hillary you also get bill. now that's a team.