Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jerry S., New Orleans, La. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:07:02 GMT

Boy it sounds like Obama is getting desperate.When was the last time he was tested for "cocaine" ?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Robert Wagner, Andrews, N.C. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:09:19 GMT

Anyone know the name of the book, Obama wrote on his past usage of "cocaine" ?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

anon — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:13:50 GMT

sounds like Barack is angry

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Opa2 — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:14:20 GMT

The real gamble in this election would be to go with someone like Obama, an unknown young man two years ago. Neither his philosophies nor his plans for the country are known or understood by the rest of us. He has never really rebutted some of the negative claims made about him, probably because he can't. The more I read about him, the more I am concerned that, if nominated, he will be on the defensive throughout the campaign and will be cut to ribbons by the Rove fear machine. Meanwhile, us Democrats have blown another opportunity.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Valéry, Desmoines Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:14:45 GMT

OBAMA all the ways!
We really need this guy for America.
Iowans wake up and let's make this reality.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Matt, Lawrence, KS — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:16:08 GMT

Good to see Obama turn negative... Unfortunately we won't see his same supporters who denounced Hillary for going negative, do the same with their own candidate...

Tisk Tisk...

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Bill C. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:18:06 GMT

Happy New Year ! hillaryclinton.com

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

John, Des Moines, IA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:20:09 GMT

Go get 'em Barack. Iowans are smart enough to make the right choice on Jan. 3rd.

Let hope replace fear in 2008!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jerry Is Stupid, Everywhere, America. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:21:14 GMT

How did you bring change? By being a African-American Democrat to be a Caucasian Republican inumbent? Oh, wait, he brings change by just voting, "Present" or just by snorting cocaine like the rest of the failed presidents of the past.

Hillary votes like Bush?

How about Obama does drugs like Bush, and is unwilling to hold any Republican accountable for the shambled America Dumya and Darth will be leaving behind.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Shelton, Washington, DC — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:21:55 GMT

Clear distinctions and characterizations Obama! I cannot wait until you are sworn in on January 20, 2009!!!

OBAMA 08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

joe — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:22:23 GMT

How is this negative...go away and take Hillary with you.

Obama 08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

CitizenJ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:22:23 GMT

sounds like Barack is angry

anon (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:13 PM)

Maybe he should have gone on a "Please Like Me - I Can Cry, Too And My Mom Thinks I'm Swell Tour"

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jeff, Oakland, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:23:33 GMT

The reason HRC trolls are always first to comment on positive Obama stories: Obama supporters are busy trying to change the world, and have better things to do than post the word cocaine 5 times on every new thread.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Sean — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:23:55 GMT

Not sure I'd qualify Hillary as only about scoring political points and not about solving problems - all accounts seem to point to her being a hard working senator that has done a lot in her time there.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

George Maurer, St Louis Mo. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:24:35 GMT

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Matthew Mack-Adoh — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:24:49 GMT

i like this speech very much its quite convincing. If Iive and vote in iowa, I will most certainly vote for this man. We need a new type of leader, I see in the man Barack Obama.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

HP Boston — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:24:52 GMT

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Leye, Richmond, Va — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:26:36 GMT

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

RAH — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:26:55 GMT

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:27:21 GMT

I read this morning that Barack Obama has raised more money in Massachusetts than Hillary Clinton, although I suspect she'll carry the state in the February primary.

But I'm not sure; just a guess. Both Clintons are popular here. But many I have spoken with are afraid to vote for her because they don't believe she will win in the general. They want the Republicans OUT.

It's an interesting election.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Angie — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:28:21 GMT

Oh my Lord! The Hillaryland blog trolls are so pathetic.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Ron, IN — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:28:34 GMT

This speech is perfect. Draws clear distinctions without going negative or throwing mud. Perfect tone for this election. He'll be hard to beat after this speech!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jeff, Oakland, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:28:36 GMT

"Going Negative" does not mean pointing out the differences between candidates.

- sending surrogates onto talk shows to say "Cocaine" as many times as possible;

- sending direct mail pieces attacking Obama that appear to be from Edwards but are in fact from HRC supporters;

- forwarding emails with ridiculous claims that Obama is a Muslim (which shouldn't matter even if it WERE true)

thhese are examples of going negative. The Clintons are quite good at it. I'll give them that. But it's not what America wants or needs right now.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Kisha Memphis — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:29:04 GMT

Wow Hillary's paid staffers are all over this board. Their internal polling must be telling them something.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Robert — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:29:28 GMT

Did anyone find out the name of Obama's book, about his past usage of "cocaine" ?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Bill C. in Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:30:58 GMT

Happy January 3rd. ! hillaryclinton.com

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Raj — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:31:08 GMT

Barack has no accomplishment to back up his rhetoric. For this reason it is difficult to take him seriously. I hope he loses Iowa and just fades away.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mervin Hanley Des Moines Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:31:56 GMT

Barack Hussein Obama is now taking a leaf from John edwards"s book and sounding angry and desparate...All that comes from his mouth is hot air and can really be a commentator for wwe wrestling if they are looking for someone to hype a crowd...I havent decided who I will vote for as yet but its definitely between Edwards and Hillary...America is looking for a leader who has been tried asnd tested and the assasination of the former prime minister of Pakistan is no test Barack can deal with in what the u s will be facing shortly.....I am an African american but is not convinced of obama"s convictions or his ready to rule attitude.....

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Robert Houston, Texas — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:31:57 GMT

With all the crap that has been going around about every single candidate, why not take a moment and at least give Hillary a prop in that she is fighting for a victory in Iowa- something Bill never did. The press can make a living on her every trip or fall, yet never mention the Hawkeye State (Iowa) - is one of only 3 states never to elect a woman to the House of Representatives, the Senate, or the governorship -- Iowa isn't fertile ground for a female candidate-yet she has battled a one term senator that had lived there the past 4 years- Edwards, as well as a senator from right next door- Obama. Nah- what could I be thinking actually giving credit for something- I forgot we are all supposed to hate and rip each other up- my bad.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

C.B. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:32:47 GMT

Peace.. hillaryclinton.com

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Nashville_fan — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:34:33 GMT

"The real gamble in this election is playing the same Washington game with the same Washington players and expecting a different result. And that's a risk we can't take. Not this year. Not when the stakes are this high."

I couldn't have said it better myself!

P.S. Why is this post focused on "digs" and not the substance of the speech? This closing argument is mainly focused on the strength and vision Senator Obama brings to the the table, not his opponents.

This is the point that Senator Obama makes that I hope doesn't get lost:

"It's change that won't just come from more anger at Washington or turning up the heat on Republicans. There's no shortage of anger and bluster and bitter partisanship out there. We don't need more heat. We need more light"

That pretty much sums it up to me - we need more LIGHT! We need hope - not fairyland hope, but the realistic opportunity to accomplish those things we have in common instead of wasting more precious time fussing about things we may never agree on.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Redneck, USA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:34:45 GMT

B. Hussein Obama is a madrassa educated muslim set on suicide bombing this nation.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jesse, Burnsville, MN — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:36:25 GMT

If you want to worry about Barack's recreational drug use as a teenager, go read his book. If you want to work together with fellow Americans like me to make this country a better place to live, VOTE FOR OBAMA.

It was a great speech that drew contrasts between himself and the other candidates. Not one of the points above has any personal negativity towards anyone. It takes the themes and criticisms coming from the other campaigns and contrasts what Obama would do.

I like John Edwards, but I believe that right now the leader needs to be a healer, not a fighter. I think that John could do a lot of good for the poor and working class, however, in a VP position.

Obama/Edwards '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Joe — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:36:26 GMT

The Pages' Mark Halperin called this speech a "tour de force" and the "best written speech of the campaign."

BTW he does his own speeches unlike some people who can't motive ANYONE even if you wrote the words for HER

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mike K, Denver — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:37:52 GMT

I like the jabs at his opponents. They aren't the below-the-belt punches Hillary will likely throw in her own "closing argument" sometime this week or this weekend. He is talking about real differences in philsophy and policy between himself and his two chief rivals. That is what is needed "Here's why you should vote for me, because I differ from my opponents in the following ways:..." Bravo Obama!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:37:54 GMT

Why is it that according to the media spin machines (MSNBC/NBC/FOX in particular) that Obama "jabs, draws contrasts,digs, or takes a shot" at Clinton and Edwards, but that Clinton and Edwards are "nasty, play scorched earth politics, attack, sound angry, and criticize." Democrats wake up and realize that the media is deciding who should be your president (or at least the nominee). The media has all but circled their wagons around Obama for reasons that I cannot understand. He is a very junior U.S. senator who doesn't have much of a record. By all accounts, he is neither a bad person nor even a bad choice, but when examined he does not seem to warrant the hoopla and press protection that he is afforded. I am only left to speculate that there is a fair amount of misogyny among the press (see Chris Matthews, Tim Russert, tucker, etc.)and that the first black president is somehow more palatable to them than the first woman. Also, does the press actually treat Obama different than the other because he is black? Are they afraid that if they are critical of him at all that they will be accused of racism or "high tech lynching"? The answer is yes.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Bill C., in Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:38:17 GMT

Hey over here, come take a looksie..hillaryclinton.com

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Geoff, Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:38:21 GMT

"The people who failed to prevent this disaster are not the ones you can count on to fix it."

Jim Webb

This is why I will be voting for Obama and not Edwards or Hillary. They failed to prevent this disaster.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

modernwoman, Anytown,USA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:38:57 GMT

just an update on the betting odds (betus.com) for Iowa:

Barack Obama -140
Hillary Clinton EVEN
Chris Dodd +2500
Bill Richardson +2500
Joe Biden +3000

Still no odds for Edwards, and things are looking better for Joe Biden(he was at +3500 yesterday)

FIRED UP!! READY TO GO!!! U CAN'T TOUCH THIS!!!

OBAMA '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Matthew Mack-Adoh — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:39:09 GMT

To critize is as mom,apple pie, Pizza as American. But put aside your politic for a moment guys and girls and re-read his speech, support the man or not that's your right. You will agree we need a diffrent kind of politic, That is Obama. I agree with the man. Join me folks.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jill, Wilmington, NC — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:40:30 GMT

Chuck Todd and Co., here you go again! You are so transparent, it is really becoming laughable! You tried this once before, trying to stir up controversy by attempting to make something out of nothing. You are so anti-Obama. Why? Saw Chuck Todd on Hardball last night and his dislike for Obama was palpable. What gives?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Steve, Hartford, CT — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:41:02 GMT

"It's change that won't just come from more anger at Washington or turning up the heat on Republicans. There's no shortage of anger and bluster and bitter partisanship out there. We don't need more heat. We need more light."

This is not an attack, it's a statement about the importance of getting over the bitter partisanship of today. And it's absolutely true. And I gotta say, if this is thought to be an attack on Hillary Clinton, that must mean that bitter partisanship is associated with her (and indeed, it is). Like he said, that's not what we need. But it's more a statement about where the country needs to go than it is a reference to another candidate.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Matthew — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:44:47 GMT

That's the point Ron, quite spot on. A very good speech indeed. Jeff that's why I am not in Obama's camp. Sorry Hillary I like Bill but I want some thing new. That person is Mr Obama. Thank you.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mike K, Denver — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:45:17 GMT

Maybe we should be worrying about potential Presidents who used cocaine, instead of baseball players using steroids.
We know that Barrack Obama snorted 'coke.'
But, I wonder if he ever sold it, and to who?
George Maurer, St Louis Mo. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:24 PM)

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

Look everyone! Mark Penn is gracing us with his presence! Now go away. Don't you have more hot air to write for Hillary?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:47:21 GMT

Oh my Lord! The Hillaryland blog trolls are so pathetic.
Angie (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:28 PM)

Ditto on the Obama Cult blog trolls.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Connie, Tn. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:47:36 GMT

iF PEOPLE WOULD REALLY LISTEN TO OBAMA, THEY WOULD KNOW HE IS RIGHT FOR AMERICA.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

mm,ma — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:48:16 GMT

I was listening to NPR - WBUR Boston today, a listener asked Obama what plans he had to bridge the divide between people and he just started mumbling incoherently and after some BS about you being more involved in politics digressed to health care at which time I switched the station. He has no concrete plans except some vague idea about hope and doing politics different way but doesn't have any action plan. Give me a microphone and I too would give everyone a BS message about feel good etc but those are not practical realties. He is just like any other idealist who have all kinds of dreams but don't know how to make them a realty. Obama should stop dreaming, wake up, get out of his bedroom and go the kitchen where he can start working also feel some heat.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

David — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:48:32 GMT

Obama is done!! the sad news from Pakistan this morning will only remind voters that we need an experienced president not a first term serator who has served for three years.. I would love to support Obama but he only speaks in generalities. I am afraid we do holding hands and wishing for peace will not solve the world's pressing issues..

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Ron, TX — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:49:57 GMT

Negative or not, those are important points to ponder. The problem with the word "negative" here is that it conveys a sense of some sort of personal attack (i.e. Clinton's Obama-cocaine attack, Clinton's Muslim-email attack...) or dirty attack (i.e. Clinton's AFSCME flier with Edwards name signed on it bashing Obama). In that sense, there is nothing NEGATIVE at all about Obama's points. There is something criticizing, something real about them, but not 'negative'.

So how about the Clintonites address the issues for once and say WHY he is wrong? Here, Obama PERFECTLY sums up his campaign. Incredible speech, really. And THAT is why Obama INSPIRES people, DRIVES people, BRINGS people together, whereas Clinton has trouble filling chairs at rallies while she blaims the Republicans, and not herself, for voting for the Authorization of Use of Military Force in Iraq (2002) bill.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/26/us/politics/26campaign.html

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Doles, Miami, FL — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:50:21 GMT

Too bad this speech will coincide with today's tragic news from Pakistan. That does sound like a good speech. I don't know whether that will suffice to get him over the hump but if well delivered as he usually does, that might get some folks thinking. It might sway enough voters to his camp to get him the win in Iowa.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Truthwill out — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:51:35 GMT

Obama's the canidate for those who believe that GOP will role over, show us their bellies , and ask for a toe rub.

After all it'snot like they ever attacked the patriotism of a wheelchair bound vet, or some one with several purple hearts who volunteered to take small boats up vietnam rivers.
It's not like the GOP would pack the courts, hold americans in solitary confinement, or suspend Habeus Corpus .
no sir, those gop will just smile and wave at the neophyte barak.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Left here Right there — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:51:51 GMT

Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results is the definition of insanity e.g. Bush/Clinton/Bush/Clinton. We need change people stophillary.com

Obama '08!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:51:52 GMT

Looks like Clintons supporters are home on their computers writing nasty things about Obama instead of out on the campaign trail for their gal. At lease Obama's supporters are busy working for his election.

Those of you on here who can only write about cocaine has nothing else in your insignifant life. You would be worthy to have accomplished a lest half of what Obama has and all you have is to sit behind your computer cowardly critizing him.
RAH (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:26 PM)

Strangely enough, I have not heard a peep from Obama supporters in Iowa trying to get my support. Hillary's campaign, however, has called me no fewer than 4 times in the past 5 days, and they even had someone out canvassing my neighborhood last night.

Try again, RAH. Better yet, why not stop spewing your venom and start making POSITIVE arguments FOR your candidate...you know, as opposed to insulting those who support someone else.

It's pathetic when people are ridiculed, harassed and insulted simply because they have a preference for a political candidate other than the one you prefer. So much for diversity. So much for respecting one another's opinions, and celebrating our differences.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:52:05 GMT

Rah writes: "Looks like Clintons supporters are home on their computers writing nasty things about Obama..." And Angie writes: "Oh my Lord! The Hillaryland blog trolls are so pathetic."

Well, it looks like us Hillary supporters have learned from the best since the Obama supporters are hateful, ungrateful, and mean spirited. It is for these reasons that even though I am a long life democrat I will NEVER vote for Obama. Anybody who evokes this much passivity among the press and this much hate in people is dangerous. Anybody remember Hitler?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Charles Everhart, Old Greenwich, Ct. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:53:09 GMT

Merry Christmas Everyone!
Obama must be desperate if he felt he had to go negative like this over The Christmas Holiday.
He comes off as being angry and devisive. His supporters do too.
Iowans are smart people who work hard all year long to enjoy the beauty and peace of The Christmas Holiday with their families. Nobody wants to hear this kind of negativity now. Couldn't he at least wait until after The Holiday Week was over?
Sheeesh, if his timimg is this bad now, just imagine what it would be like if he was President. It doesn't seem to me that a guy like this can be trusted.
I think I'm going to have to vote for Hillary in my state primary, and in the general election next year.
I hope everyone else does too!
Happy New Year, and May God Bless You All

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Paul, NY, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:54:19 GMT

That's supposed to convince me he's the best candidate???!!! Bleeeccchhh! Great orator - no substance. He can talk till he's blue in the face - I'll vote for someone I can believe in and someone who can win!

He's looking for a repeat of the Jefferson Jackson speech to get back that mojo he's lost.

HILLARY '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Wayne, Silver Spring, MD — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:54:45 GMT

Hands down, this is probably the best speech Obama has given!

Read the whole speech: http://thepage.time.com/obamas-new-stump-speech/

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mary B., Cape Coral, FL — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:54:48 GMT

What a wonderful speech. Obama has a winner here - beautifully detailed argument for why people should choose him. There is nothing "negative" in the sense that your title is trying to imply. Obama is truthfully drawing the distinctions among the candidates. If you want true negative campaigning, go back to the Hillary group's smear tactics. You really should not be so obvious in your attempts to slant things against Barack Obama. This First Read site is quickly losing credibility.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mike K, Denver — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:55:02 GMT

Matt Lawrence (commenter #6) is on point. Everyone was shouting and condemning Hillary when she criticized Obama. I can bet that in this case, the same people who criticized her will commend Obama for speaking the truth.
Leye, Richmond, Va (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:26 PM)

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

Her campaign has gone personal with the issues of drug use, the stories of his childhood, etc., that have absolutely no bearing on this campaign for President. Instead, he is attacking her on her policy positions, her flip flopping, her inability to give a straight forward answer; these are on point and fine in a political campaign. The smear tactics are what gave us the Idiot we have bumbling around the White House playing Cowboys and Indians we do today. I think most people have seen this and will not vote for Hillary because of it.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:55:46 GMT

Just listened to Joe Scarborough give an infantile analysis of the implications of this 'terrorist' assassination of Benazir Bhutto vis a vis the upcoming Iowa primary. He assumes that this will help Guiliani, perceived as strong on terrorism and Hillary, as perceived as more experienced on foreign policy than Barack Obama.

What a laugh. I guess, just about anyone can someone give such a superficial analysis on short notice and this kind of short shrift given to an incredibly complex and difficult situation is the kind of thinking which led us to act first and think later when getting involved in Iraq.

Clearly, there is no evidence that this was a terrorist attack. Why would the terrorists lauch an attack that would lead to a stronger military crack down by the dictator Musharraf? My suspicion is that this is an act by Musharraf to qwell challenges to his tyrannical reign. Remember Guiliani and Clinton have both supported Musharraf as an alleged 'strong' ally of the U.S.

Once again, the conventional thinking (like that of Guiliani and Clinton) supports this dictator and thereby works to alienate the general populace of Pakistan. This kind of wrongly placed support, on our part, will help to send the people of Pakistan into the arms of the islamic radicals who will represent themselves as salvation from the military dictatorship and its ally, 'the satan' U.S.

Obama recognized that our allegiance to Musharraf was falsely placed and in fact indicated in many policy speeches that it was not wise to put our trust in this questionable partner in the war against Islamic terrorism. The dictator's primary interest is the preservation of his own power and that can only lead to catastrophe for the U.S. (as it has time and time again, when we support dictators around the world) not only in our effort to help to cement a stable Pakistan (possessor of a nuclear arsenal) but in our effort to win the hearts and minds of the Islamic populations in order to counter the terrorists.

Once again, candidates who are perceived as either the strongest against terrorism or as 'most experienced' have the least knowledge and judgment when it comes to setting the course of foreign policy of our nation. Thanks again, Joe Scarborough, for that 'in-depth' analysis, not!
Obama '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

ki houston — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:56:26 GMT

wow i was going to cut down the haters on here but obama land looks like they holden it down . I think there are some really scared people out there ,with good reason after that speach.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Stu — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:56:34 GMT

This is neither anti-Obama nor pro-Clinton, merely a question: Just what, EXACTLY, has Obama done in either the Illinois legislature or in the U.S. Senate to demonstrate that he is CAPABLE of bringing about meaningful change?

I would appreciate knowing the NAME of even one legislative bill for which he was either the prime sponsor or primarily responsible for its passage.

I've got nothing against Obama but, at the same time I can't figure out a reason for voting for him--he's way too young and, to my knowledge, has yet to demonstrate either his ABILITY or political savvy to bring about meaningful changes.

Thus, I asking for some demonstrable proof of exemplars of those qualities. [Please, no platitudes or BS--SPECIFICS ONLY].

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Larry L — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:57:45 GMT

Pat, Boston, MA Hillary can't win in the general she's way too polorizing. If she becomes our candidate we can count on 4 more years of Republipuke bs. I love Bill but I can't stand this woman she ain't no Bill...she's a lot of bull but she ain't no Bill. I've been a Democrat all of my life but I would not and will not ever give this evil lady my vote. I would not vote for a Republican but even they are better than her.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

tobby, Alexandria, va — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:57:46 GMT

When FEAR is replaced by HOPE, the shameless Hillary supporters run to Karl Rove for reenergized his fearmongering tactics. If your candidate is that "experience" why is she changing her motto every months? I am indeed ashamed of this racist Democrats.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Dot, Illinois — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:58:33 GMT

I really don't see why this speech would be classified as going negative.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

jstipich, perry, Ohio — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:58:33 GMT

Obama has had more small donors than all other Dem candidates combined. America is behind him. Iowa please say goodbye to the Clintons for the rest of us and for good. No more affairs, controversy, drama in the White House. Obama '08 !

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 17:58:40 GMT

Sean,

You have got to be kidding about Senator Clinton getting a lot done. She may be a hard worker, but she has no results as a Senator. She has named a few post offices and congratulated some sports teams. While other senators have been sponsoring imporatant legislation. Her lack of senatorial accomplishments is a big reason not to entrust her with the presidency. She has just been biding her time there and not using any of her political capital, to further the interest of the American people or even her lobbyist friends. Or has she? Maybe the reason she hasn't been pushing for change (ie legislation) is because lobbyists like things they way Bush has made them.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jason, Seattle, WA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:01:46 GMT

If he released the full remark, why don't you leave it to us the American people to make our own judgement on it?

Post the whole thing. We don't need you shaping the agenda.

yes, Mark Murray, we don't care about your opinion, we all have brains.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

jose — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:02:58 GMT

wow, obama sounds desperate. don't candidates typically go positive when it's the last week?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Elizabeth Sullivan, San Diego, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:03:43 GMT

THE CULT OF PERSONALITY is alive and well in Camp Obama.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:05:11 GMT

There are some really ugly HRC supporters posting on here. They are the ones who are desperate.

This speech is absolutely correct and not a negative attack at all. His speech is "Stand up for change." HRC has consistently tried to say that she is for change (since it has been successful for Obama). He is simply pointing out why he is the real candidate for change and not HRC or Edwards.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

AC, Boston MA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:09:55 GMT

The first few posts..........hmmmmm I wonder. What in your mind is wrong with that speech. It is exactly what voters need to hear and act on. It is a very good speech.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

HP Boston — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:11:40 GMT

Did anyone find out the name of Obama's book, about his past usage of "cocaine" ?
Robert (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:29 PM)

_______________________________
I am still trying to find my book. It may have just been called SMACK or BLOW, I will let you know.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jack, Cambridge, MA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:15:59 GMT

I wonder how many of these drug posts have Clinton campaign IP addresses.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

BL, Cincinnati OH — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:16:56 GMT

Boy it sounds like Obama is getting desperate.When was the last time he was tested for "cocaine" ?
Jerry S., New Orleans, La. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:07 PM)

Anyone know the name of the book, Obama wrote on his past usage of "cocaine" ?
Robert Wagner, Andrews, N.C. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:09 PM)

How did you bring change? By being a African-American Democrat to be a Caucasian Republican inumbent? Oh, wait, he brings change by just voting, "Present" or just by snorting cocaine like the rest of the failed presidents of the past.

Hillary votes like Bush?

How about Obama does drugs like Bush, and is unwilling to hold any Republican accountable for the shambled America Dumya and Darth will be leaving behind.
Jerry Is Stupid, Everywhere, America. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:21 PM)

___________

What a sad and pathetic little life you must lead to make three posts, claiming to be different people, just to attack someone's character. Does it make you feel all warm inside?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Bill C. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:17:25 GMT

Urgent message.. go to hillaryclinton.com

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

carolyn grace — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:18:34 GMT

This is being reported as the best speech that he has given during the campaign. Even better than the JJ Dinner speech. Senator Obama is not an angry man. He is the man that will bring this country together unlike Hillary. The Clintons need to go back to Arkansas. Enough is enough.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

TW, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:21:02 GMT

Will the press ever do a negative article on Obama during this campaign season? I have never seen the press suck up to a candidate as much as they have to Obama. Seriously, if you look at every article since the campaign started, I bet you couldn't find one negative article about him, but 50 or more against Hillary, a few against Edwards, tons against Romney and Guliani. There is a clear bias in the media toward Obama.

Those of you Obama supporters who are claiming there are a lot of Hillary people on the board are ridiculous. Seeing how every 4th article is a negative one against Hillary, the Obama people are constantly ranting on these boards like he is the next Jesus. Please! Talk about dishing it out but cant take it. I'm willing to bet there will be twice as much Obama people on this board at the end of the day than Hillary or Edwards.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jeff, Rathdrum, ID — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:24:15 GMT

Well if this is the best Obama can do at going negative, Hillary beats him hands down. I mean Karl Rove would give this a "F" in negitive politics, and I'm sure he would give Hillary at least a "B" for her Negitivity!
Come on Obama, words like "Hope" and "Truth" they don't belong in politics, where is the "fear", where are the personal attacks. I guess since I'm so in love with politics as usual, I will not be able to vote for you. "Change we can Beleive in" come on who wants change? "A broken system in Washington" whats wrong with it, lobbyists have done just fine running this country of ours, and I'm sure they know whats best for us "real people".
So America let's vote for "more of the same"!!!! And one last thing this "transparent government" no thank you!!! That would mean I might have to actually think and (god forbid) care what is going on in Washington.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Todd Nichols, Goshen NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:27:13 GMT

"You know that we can't afford four more years of the same divisive food fight in Washington that's about scoring political points instead of solving problems; that's about tearing your opponents down instead of lifting this country up."

So what exactly is that supposed to mean?...That, Obama's going to cooperate with the Republicans? Does he think they're going to give him his way without a real dog-fight? Does he think the G.O.P. is going to treat him differently than they would any other Democratic candidate?
Maybe it's because they haven't been attacking him, because they want him to be the nominee.
Maybe that's why he thinks they're going to treat him "special." (Of course we all know that would end rather quickly if he was to become the nominee, don't we?)
This kind of thinking on Obama's part is exactly what people mean when they say he is inexperienced and naive.

"It's change that won't just come from more anger at Washington or turning up the heat on Republicans. There's no shortage of anger and bluster and bitter partisanship out there. We don't need more heat. We need more light"

Again, what's with the 'play "nice" with the republicans' thing?
What's he gonna' do....give in to them?
We're Democrats, we don't want that!
We want someone who WILL fight for OUR values, OUR morals, and OUR ideology!
Furthermore, what "light" does Obama bring to the table? He's never dealt with foreign policy at any level before, he didn't pass healthcare reform legislation in Illinois, even though he and his people try to take credit for it.
He never spent any time in the military, or even addressed the needs of our veterans and servicemen...and he lived for most of his youth in foreign countries.
How can he claim to be in touch with young people in THIS country when he spent HIS youth overseas? That's ridiculous!
I'm sorry.
ut, the guy just hasn't made his case to me. I find him to be pugnaciously negative, and too willing to surrender his positions and his identity to a Republican Party that has fought against Democrats tooth and nail for more than a decade.
Playing "nice" with Republicans doesn't work. Jimmy Carter tried it 30 years ago, and he got his head handed to him. George McGovern, Walter Mondale, and Michael Dukakis all thought they could campaign on a platform of cooperating with, and being "nice" to Republicans.
It didn't work.

.....and finally, "that invokes 9/11 as a way to scare up votes instead of a challenge that should unite all Americans to defeat our real enemies."

Like I said before; THIS is exactly what is meant by "inexperienced, and naive."
Mr. Obama, you better understand very clearly sir that the people who attacked us on 911 ARE OUR REAL ENEMIES!
It just sounds to me like nominating this guy is too risky, it isn't safe.
I'm going to have to give my vote to Hillary.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Sierra, SF — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:28:33 GMT

From the Huffington Post:

'...Dave "Mudcat" Saunders

Hillary Clinton's Serious Iowa Problem
Posted December 27, 2007 | 10:23 AM (EST)

To begin with, I don't know who is going to win the Iowa Caucuses. The absolute truth is the pundits and others can guess all they want, but nobody really knows. There are simply too many pieces to the puzzle, and it's all those pieces that make the Iowa Caucuses the most intriguing electoral process in American politics.

My intention, and I want to be clear that I don't have permission, is to speak out for all the Democratic presidential campaigns by saying that a win (or a strong showing in some of the candidates' cases) in Iowa is of critical importance. That said, I am constitutionally incapable of sitting back in good conscience and quietly listening to Hillary Clinton's words to the people in Iowa and then her 180-degree spin to the national press.

Hillary Clinton has a serious political problem. From the get-go her campaign pushed her to the press and her contributors as the "inevitable" candidate. Her problem is if you bill yourself as the "inevitable" nominee in a presidential nominating race, you had better be right because there is no fall-back position. Now that her "inevitability" is under serious scrutiny, she is running around Iowa telling Iowans that she loves them, they are important, and she has to have them, while at the same time, she is spinning to the national press that Iowa is not so important that she has to win there to secure the nomination. The absolute truth is with a campaign team that looks like the 1927 New York Yankees and with all the resources she has thrown at Iowa, a bad showing from Hillary can only reinforce what so many of us have been saying all along. If she can't win Iowa, she has absolutely no chance to win the general. It's that simple.

Next Thursday night when she doesn't win the Iowa Caucuses, she will immediately say that Iowa is not all that important, which in my mind is not only denigrating all those Iowa Caucus goers who have taken their time to take a great look at all of the candidates, but it also gives all Americans a great look at what's to come.

After next Thursday night, Hillary Clinton will resort to the only conceivable option she has left. With the huge coffers she has accumulated from raising funds from the many who have a financial stake in the next administration, she's going to try to flood the media markets for February 5 and buy the damned thing. It's that simple

To paraphrase Mr. Lincoln, "You can fool some of the people all the time, but in the case of the Clinton campaign, everybody can see this trick coming." My greatest hope is the blogosphere and the national media won't let them get away with it....'

How can you be 'inevitable' and finish second in Iowa ?
How can you 'love' Iowa and then say it doesn't matter ?

If Richardson is the 'peace' candidate, will he endorse Obama or Edwards after Iowa ?
If Biden is the 'judgement' candidate, will he endorse Obama or Edwards after Iowa ?
How about Dodd, the 'serious' candidate ?
Who will he endorse after Iowa ?

Anybody angling for the VP slot ?

Sorry, Hillary.....
Money can't buy you love ......
(or respect)

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Nicolee, Washington — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:29:51 GMT

My problem with Obama is that he is campaigning on dividing the people...not along political parties...but between generations. Blaming the older boomers (aka Clintons) for the problems of today is NOT a way to unite Americans. Using this strategy has pretty well dissed all Vietnam veterans and Civil Rights advocates in favor of the younger hopeful generation. In return many many of us older boomers are pissed.

I do not care about past cocaine use. I want to know if Obama has quit smoking his cancer sticks as promised.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

--NSMsnbc — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:30:24 GMT

His most recent book was 'The Audacity of Hope', though I seriously doubt you even care about it for anything more than a reason to bring up the word "cocaine". Because if that were the case, you would stop once somebody gives you the title, which you won't. It is a silly strategy for a silly argument by silly supporters. I think we were all awakened this morning to re-learn there are much more important issues at hand.

But to actually talk about the thread-at-hand, those are some very real, very important, key differences between Obama and his opponents in a Democratic field in which the candidates are largely the same. I don't see anything overtly mean or below-the-belt, perhaps you can point out specifics if you truly believe that it is. Just another example of silliness (though I prefer the term ridiculous) in politics.

G-Obama.
Keep it up, you are doing so well.
The candidate who can and will change things.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Eric (Columbus, OH) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:31:19 GMT

Strangely, I don't remember Obama writing a book all about his past usage of cocaine, Robert. I do seem to remember him mentioning it as an anecdote in one of his books, to point out how far he has come since his "delinquent" youth and illustrate what is possible to achieve if people exhibit the sense and drive to do it. Let's give credit where credit's due -- admitting one's past drug use is not an easy admission to make (especially when you're running for President), but at least he didn't pull any of the "I didn't inhale" BS that we had to suffer through in the early '90s. I certainly don't condone Obama's drug use, but I can respect that he's honest about it. As soon as Hillary comes clean about Whitewater maybe I'll respect her, too -- but I'd never vote for her.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Pope, Houston, TX — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:32:02 GMT

OBAMA = HOPE + UNITY + RESTORING OUR BELIEVE IN THIS GRAET NATION = CHANGE

I'm not suprised to see so many trying to shoot down this rare talent with their
hateful, unthoughtful and fanatical spews.

(BEWARE OF HILL CLINTON'S INTERNET THUGS, THEY ARE ON EVERY MAJOR POLITICAL
WEBSITES AND BLOGS....7 WERE OUTED ON A NH NEWSPAPER SITE)

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Pope, Houston, TX — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:32:38 GMT

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:38:45 GMT

..."Wow Hillary's paid staffers are all over this board. Their internal polling must be telling them something."....
Kisha Memphis (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:29 PM

Well, I'm not a Clinton staffer Kisha.
But, I wonder if the people who openly questioned Hillary's sexuality, who referred to her as old and ugly, and who continually bring up Monica Lewinsky are paid Obama staffers?
I tend to think they are since Obama uses that kind of rhetoric (indirectly) himself.
By the way Kisha.....should I tell my kids it's okay to "use a little blow," by voting for Obama?
What kind of message does it send to the youth of our country if we reward someone who's used cocaine with a Presidential nomination?
What do you think the G.O.P. is going to do with the cocaine story if we noiminate him?
Do you honestly think they're going to let it go?
You're kidding yourself if you think they will.
Nope, sorry. I'm NOT buying what you're selling Kisha.
In fact I reject it totally. I will cross the aisle and vote for ANY republican candidate if Obama is the nominee.
I want a REAL Democrat who'll fight for my party's ideology, and its' agenda. Not someone who's already talking about giving in to the G.O.P.
HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT 2008!
A REAL Democrat who represents REAL Democratic values!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Eric, Newtown, PA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:39:15 GMT

The Hillary trolls here are a sad lot. They'll have good reason to be sad come January 4th. Obama has the momentum and Hillary reeks of desperation.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Abraham, SF, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:39:37 GMT

Robert it called dream from my father where Obama described ow he was turmnent by the absence of is father. He, at least, didnt not say I didn't inhale like someone we know or I didn't have a sex with that intern or I just used my cigare or it depend what is means. Please, when it come to morality, the clintons have nothing to teach to anyone. Sorry, you can have HRC because americans did not her.
Have a good day.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

phanuel markin — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:45:35 GMT

Well written; well thought out; well cotrasted and he has given the nation options to consider. Let HRC present hers and contrast. This is very informative for America. No more "spins".

PHANUEL M.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mark, Cary, NC — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:46:16 GMT

I love when the Obama supporters start to cry the moment the blogs call him out on being angry and negative. His speech was just that. Obama, Speak softly and carry a big stick...not speak loudly but arm yourself with hope instead of action.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Amy B Portland, ME — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:47:50 GMT

I agree with Ron, IN.

It's refreshing to hear a politician present well- reasoned arguments to win votes. I am sick of the pandering, lying, and fear mongering that has infected American politics the last eight years. Go Obama!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

The crash of twenty nine — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:47:57 GMT

This article opened Pandora's box, and the only person who can close it is ""You the American People!

What was exposed here is:

A Washington self serving paper hangers.

Domains of power unchecked by Justice.

Control freaks, unchecked because there is no longer a voice of the people.

Self serving agenda which degrades and enhances only a hand full of the power mongers.

We have a Congress which is self serving, thus meaning it no longer is the voice of the People.

Our future in the next four years is more bleak, Adding to the problem is masking the real problem. While other countries move forward we regress to complete destruction. The selling of this nation infrastructure has to be addressed NOW!

Washington is becoming a myth, law and order only because people must, national security air space open to a massive attack. Ground security breached by those who desire to just walk in, and the endless list of why we have scummed builds on a daily basis.

Duty, Honor,country, shall only a handful of Washington self serving paper hangers be enabled to continue this course???

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Edmonsky, Sacramento, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:48:12 GMT

When Senator Obama talks about new politics, it sounds very alien to the ears of conventional thinkers. New politics entails transparent honesty. Senator Obama was not obliged to write that he used drugs at his teenage years but honesty and overflow of confidence quakes in his vein. Some had wanted him to say that he tried drugs but did not inhale and that is the difference that stands him in sharp contrast with conventional political thinkers.

Hilary Clinton cannot even accept that she makes mistakes like every other human being. The most troubling thing about Hilary is why she lies as a matter of principle. She claims to be involved in her husband’s administration but she cannot point to any policy the authored or co-authored with others. Now we know that she did not even have security clearance that would allow her access to classified information and she is claiming co-president. She claims to be responsible for SCHIP that was passed in 1997 but nowhere in the bill was her name mentioned. Throughout 1996-97, she was very investigated and subpoenaed to testify before a federal grand jury. This is a woman that turned $1,000 investment in trading cattle futures contracts into $100,000 profit in ten months. Hilary represents the highest echelon in government criminal enterprise and if elected president, all her years will be consumed in all sorts of criminal investigations.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Daniel, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:49:15 GMT

A new general election poll from Oklahoma has Edwards running 20 points better than Clinton and leading against Romney and Giuliani (which opens up major electability questions against the NY mayor and speaks very well of Edwards): http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2007/12/presidential-diary-edwards-impressive.html

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Sierra, SF — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:54:03 GMT

'.... "We can't afford the same politics of fear that tells Democrats that the only way to look tough on national security is to talk, act, and vote like George Bush Republicans; that invokes 9/11 as a way to scare up votes instead of a challenge that should unite all Americans to defeat our real enemies."...'

This is EXACTLY right !!
Why did you vote for the Iraq War, Hillary ?
Explain yourself !
Why didn't you bother to read the NIE ?

Were you just trying to look 'tough' ?
What did you learn from the Iraq War ?
Hillary, why did you vote for Lieberman-Kyl ?
Were you in 'general election mode' ?
Were you willing to attack Iran to advance your political career ?

Is that why you 'enabled' Bush to attack Iraq ?
To advance your political 'career' ?
Opportunist Hillary ?
Iraq neither threatend nor attacked us ?
WHY did you vote for WAR ?

All you paid trolls can't help you now, Hillary !!

TURN THE PAGE

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jesse, Burnsville, MN — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:56:44 GMT

David, you would never support Obama, so save us the BS.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Spud, Delmont, PA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:56:52 GMT

Obama is an empty suis-Biden is 10 times the statesman that Obama is

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Your Average All-American Guy, Hometown, USA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:59:44 GMT

".....Look everyone! Mark Penn is gracing us with his presence! Now go away. Don't you have more hot air to write for Hillary? ....."
Mike K, Denver (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:45 PM)

Wow!
Where do these Obama-Rama-Ding-Dongs get all that vitriol, anger and hatred from?
I don't think I've seen anyone inspire this much anger since Hitler.
I wonder if he used cocaine too?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Michelle Moran, Chicago — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:03:01 GMT

How can you label this a negative speech "jabbing" Clinton and Edwards?

The only negative thing I see is your very misleading title!

Why are you trying to create trouble?

First Read, you are so biased against Obama, you should be on Mark Penn's payroll. What are you guys trying to prove?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Eliot, West Hollywood, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:03:32 GMT

Barack Obama is an inspiring individual and has a bright future ahead of him. I am pretty confident that his supporters in Iowa and elsewhere will come to the same conclusion. Today with the assassination of Prime Minister Butto and the unrest which may result in a civil war in Pakistan now is not the time to replace a moron with a rookie. We need a president who doesn’t require being brought up to speed on the issues. We need a president who knows and has an established relationship with other world leaders. We need a president who the rest of the world already knows and respects. We need Hillary Clinton to be that person. Should she choose Mr. Obama as her VP that would be great. However now is not the time to hand over the country to someone with so little experience. Hillary has far more experience and having an ex-president as her spouse is just an added bonus.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:04:13 GMT

Mike K, Denver,
I'm just wondering why you think Cocaine usage is such a trivial matter. (?)
I happen to agree with the guy who posted we should be wary of giving power to ANYBODY that was ever involved with it.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

DCHI — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:06:45 GMT

To the Hillary trolls: If you want 4 or 8 more years of Lewinsky-style soap opera and cigars (I did not have sex with "that woman") or triangulating (It depends on what the meaning of "is" is), then go ahead. Make my day...

If you think the Republicans won't run these clips for one full year if Hillary gets nominated, then you are as naive as the word itself. Good luck with another 8 years of neocon drama..

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Graham Wolfe - St. Louis, MO — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:06:47 GMT

People like George Maurer from St Louis, Mo who post comments on here should be ashamed. It's sad and troubling that all of you Hillary supporters are so desperate to smear Obama. He already admitted to drug use and that's more than you can say about Bush - who never owned up to his criminal past. So stop trying to make Barack look bad. The man went to HARVARD LAW and is a U.S. SENATOR - Far more than any of you can say.
This latest speech was not negative in tone, he was simply pointing out differences and drawing distinctions between himself, Hillary and Edwards.
These message boards are not here for people to make childish comments, but many of you think you can say anything as you hide behind your computer. It's sad and does absolutely nothing to further legitimate discussion. Grow Up People.

OBAMA '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Nashville_fan — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:10:11 GMT

David wrote:
"Obama is done!! the sad news from Pakistan this morning will only remind voters that we need an experienced president not a first term serator who has served for three years.. I would love to support Obama but he only speaks in generalities. I am afraid we do holding hands and wishing for peace will not solve the world's pressing issues.. "

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
David,
What will solve the world's pressing issues? Saber rattling and fear mongering? Not talking to anyone we don't agree with? We can't invade the world, so what do you suggest?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rebecca Giardina, Ft. Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:10:47 GMT

To those who are posting from Hillaryland...
I applaud your dedication to your candidate. However, your posts glaringly reflect desperation. They diminish your candidate's dignity as well as that of your own.

BTW, Obama's books are "Dreams from My Father"
and "The Audacity of Hope".

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:13:21 GMT

Obama wants to surrender to the Republicans.

This is dumb. Why surrender when you are winning? Democrats are finally looking at gaining control of all three branches of government and being able to get something doen and Obama wants to surrender to Mitch McConnell and John Biehner and the rest of the GOP.

As a Democrat that sickens me. I say finish the fight and take back Washington.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Jesse, Burnsville, MN — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:16:30 GMT

The speech was very positive and uplifting.

Did he draw some contrasts during the speech? Well, yes, what would you expect.

If you haven't been paying attention, an Obama presidency is not about him creating change. It's about empowering all of us to create change. You know, the whole "ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country." Let's take this damn country back, it is ours.

Obama '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Paul, NY, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:16:55 GMT

Response to Connie, Tn:

<<iF PEOPLE WOULD REALLY LISTEN TO OBAMA, THEY WOULD KNOW HE IS RIGHT FOR AMERICA.
Connie, Tn. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:47 PM)>>

Oh people ARE starting to listen to him alright - and starting to realize what a disaster he would be. So much for the Obama surge - it was more like a hiccup that has already started to recede. That wasn't a surge - it was an anomaly!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Paul, NY, NY — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:27:22 GMT

Response to Kelly from Pittsburgh:

<<Sean,

You have got to be kidding about Senator Clinton getting a lot done. She may be a hard worker, but she has no results as a Senator.
Kelly (from Pittsburgh) (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:58 PM)>>

You obviously have absolutely NO clue as to what you are talking about. Being from NY, I can say without a doubt that Senator Clinton has done AMAZING things for the state of New York. That is why she was re-elected with 67% of the vote - winning in traditionally Republican counties. And why? Here's just a few of lists of accomplishments she has done since becoming MY Senator - there's HUNDREDS more that you can Google anytime you want to become informed.
1. Expanded research for HIV/AIDS funding'
2. Enacted legislation for superior teachers/principals
3.Co-authored legislation of Prevention First Act to increase funding for family planning, thus reducing unwanted pregnancies
4. Expanded CHP coverage for poor children
5. Co-authored legislation with Rep. Sen. Lindsay Graham to ensure all Guard Members and Reservists have access to health care.......

and the list goes on and on and on......

HILLARY '08

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Eliot, Hollywood, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:31:29 GMT

To Larry L:
Sir, let me suggest that you get help. Let me also suggest you know nothing about Hillary except that she is a woman and that is really what bothers you. You don't want to vote for her...you think a republican would be better...hmmm that same stupidity that landed W in the White House. Why such disdain for a person you don’t know? You call her evil. Can you tell me why you feel that way? How in your mind is she evil? When I think of evil I think of Dick Cheney. You think Hillary Clinton...You sound like a republican to me. In fact many of these Hillary Haters are probably really Republicans pretending to be Democrats who “will just never vote for his woman”. This country already has its share of uniformed going to the polls...really if you would rather vote for a Republican than vote for Hillary you don’t know enough about the differences of the two parties to participate. So stay home.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Larry L — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:42:31 GMT

Paul, NY, NY "and the list goes on and on and on....."

Sorry if I don't believe the list goes on and on but prove it Paul, let's hear the rest...please make sure that what you cite is actually Hillary's doing and not things that she co-sponsered or voted for. I assure you it is a bare cuppord when it comes to her actual experience and acomplishments.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Real Democrat, CA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:42:34 GMT

The virulent Hill-ophiles are at it again by demeaning Obama. Unlike Hillary, Obama possesses wisdom, intellect and judgment to move this country forward. Hillary is just damaged goods and will not hesitate to throw the American people under the bus if it benefits her.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Right here Left there — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:43:32 GMT

Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results is the definition of insanity e.g. Bush/Clinton/Bush/Clinton.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Eih — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:45:53 GMT

Wow. Clinton's paid staff is at it again in this forum, repeating these nasty words about Barack's drug use while he was a teenager ... using scare tactics. What a damn shame ... Anyway here is Obama's whole speech:

http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1207/7577.html

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Larry L — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 19:51:58 GMT

Eliot, Hollywood, CA. To your point I would never vote for a Republican but if Hillary is gets the nomination believe me I will not vote for her. Evil? Yes she is she is the establishment. Obama has more small donors than any other candidates, why do you think that is Eliot? It's because regular everyday Americans are tired of the Bush/Clinton monarchy of status quo. This country is in serious trouble and Hillary is a divider. Her campaign donations are questionable she works too closly with lobbyists she changes her positions more than the wind blows. At the end of the day she's a phoney and only wants our votes so she can get power she doesn't care about the little guy and if you believe that then you're naive enough that you deserve a President like her. YOu probably work for HRC it wouldn't surprise me. It's a shame to all women in our country that the first woman to run for President is Hillary. So again I would never vote for a republican but I won't vote for her either!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:03:34 GMT

It's startling to me that the most hate-filled speech here is from those who support the candidate who is supposed to bring about change.

The more ridiculously rude Obama supporters are, the worse it makes him look. I hope those of you who spend all of your time bashing Hillary and those who support her realize that. I know several people who have been turned off Obama because of the viciousness of his supporters. It does not reflect well on him.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

J, Ca — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:09:57 GMT

Audacity of Dope?
Mr Obama, You need therapy.
Tell it to Oparh.
Or how about Dr Phil?
I expected you to go down eventually, but not this fast.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

KA, Chicago, IL — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:13:05 GMT

Anyone know the name of the book, Obama wrote on his past usage of "cocaine" ?
Robert Wagner, Andrews, N.C. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:09 PM)

________________________________________________
Mmmm I am looking for my copy. I seem to think it may be Cool and High in a meat Locker? I'll get my book and check the title.

HP Boston (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:24 PM)

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

"Dreams From My Father" originally published 1995

Why bring it up here, though? It's been discussed and, more importantly, it's from over 20 years ago. He's admitted it publicly. He's spoken about it. He doesn't hide from it. And he's moved on. Anyone else in their 40s want to discuss the mistakes they made in high school? Here?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Oz, Lisbon, IA — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:27:26 GMT

Before you criticize Barack Obama for his strategy of "giving in to the Republicans" you should ALL (Obama supporter or not) read Mark Schmitt's excellent article in The American Prospect about why he pursues this strategy and WHY IT WORKS:

http://www.prospect.org/cs/articles?article=the_theory_of_change_primary

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

--NSMsnbc — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:34:21 GMT

[It's startling to me that the most hate-filled speech here is from those who support the candidate who is supposed to bring about change.
Carrie, Eastern Iowa]

Pretty much every candidate on this blog has 'hate-filled' supporters, I think it's clear who they are but it's not my place to say. It would be insane to say that one candidate has captured the market on 'hate-filled', 'crazy' supporters. For example, Clinton has several virulent suppporters who consistently churn out blatent, negative lies regarding Obama, and a bunch of the Edwards people strangely get lumped with Obama. Yes, you do have a point that some Obama supporters stray from his message--and they exist as much as those for other candidates, but to hold the candidate up to random supporters on a blog, that's impossible expectations (I hope I'm not consistently lumped into that group). I'd like to think that all the candidates also have rational people making valid, rational points. I know those are the people I respect and listen to. I hope one does not judge who to or not to support based on the comments of people he or she undoubtedly doesn't respect in the first place.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Andrea, Plano, Texas — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:35:40 GMT

Gee, the pro-Hillary smear-squad is out in full force today!! You must be really, really worried about Clinton's collapse in the polls and the very telling NY Times article yesterday which showed that she has no foreign policy credentials from her time as First Lady. Have some of you henchmen bloggers seen the very important "internals" from these latest Iowa polls? Not looking good?? Did Mark Penn send you out en masse today?? It's really disgusting the depths this Clinton campaign will go to. Really nauseating.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Left here Right there — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:35:43 GMT

Carrie, Eastern Iowa "It's startling to me"
Carrie how many times can one person be startled, surpised? That's all you post. You seem to be amazed that a majority of people actually want someone other than HRC to get the nomination. Excuse me but when did Hillary supporters become holier than though? Hillary is the worst when it comes to defamation of someone's character through character assasinations. Spare us your shock and awe Carrie it's really starting to get as tired looking as the queen of cackeling herself Hillary. And what makes you the expert on what turns people on or off, sorry if we're not as naive as you... We'll gladly welcome you when Obama gets the nomination.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Left here Right there — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:43:26 GMT

Carrie, Eastern Iowa "I know several people who have been turned off Obama because of the viciousness of his supporters."

Carrie, what's it like in the Hillary war-room right now? Are you a paid volunteer or do you work for her for free? My guess is you work there for free. Do you really believe that your comments would sway an Obama supporter? Sorry but we are unlike the sheep that seem to follow Hillary we are for true change we are for Obama!

Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results is the definition of insanity e.g. Bush/Clinton/Bush/Clinton.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rick,ky — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:47:54 GMT

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Mark, NC — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:50:15 GMT

The Iraq War De-escalation Act of 2007
January 30, 2007

http://obama.senate.gov/press/070130-obama_offers_pl_1/index.php

Someone asked what Obama has done. Everyone is waiting for the media to make the case instead of reading for themselves. With all of the glory of the internet you would think people were more informed.
Read the link below if you are too lazy to do your own research.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/susan-rice/ready-to-lead-on-day-one_b_78339.html

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:57:52 GMT

Carrie, Eastern Iowa wrote: "It's startling to me that the most hate-filled speech here is from those who support the candidate who is supposed to bring about change."

"The more ridiculously rude Obama supporters are, the worse it makes him look. I hope those of you who spend all of your time bashing Hillary and those who support her realize that. I know several people who have been turned off Obama because of the viciousness of his supporters. It does not reflect well on him."

Carrie, THIS IS SO TRUE!!!

It is for these reasons that even though I am a long life democrat I will NEVER vote for obama. Anybody who evokes this much passivity among the press and this much hate in people is dangerous. Anybody remember Hitler?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Garrett, seattle — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:58:49 GMT

I hate this whole "Iowa Nice" BS...Obama could not possible be making distinctions any less offensively than this. Attack ads are only ridiculous because usually they are either misleading or attacking something about a candidate that has nothing to do with how he'd/she'd perform in office, but an election where the candidates aren't even safe in using their opponents' names just turns into a beauty contest (sorry Hil...haha, sorry, couldn't pass it up...)

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

BIGOLDTEXAN — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:59:27 GMT

GO OBAMA 08'

THE TIME FOR CHANGE IS NOW AND IF YIU VOTE FOHRC YOU GET WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE AND THAT IS A FAILED GOVERNMENT OR BUSH/CHENEY LITE ADMINISTRATION.

GO OBAMA 08'

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

CitizenJ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 20:59:48 GMT

It's startling to me that the most hate-filled speech here is from those who support the candidate who is supposed to bring about change.

Carrie, Eastern Iowa (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 3:03 PM)

Carrie,

....."She don't lie, she don't lie, she don't lie, COCAINE"
Eric Clapton, circa 1978
J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 2:05 PM)

THE REAL OBAMA RESPONSE:

Benazir Bhutto deserved what she got. As a muslim women, she had no place in politics. No self respecting muslim nation should be lead by women. They desicrate the Quran when they try to educate themselves and act like men.
B. Hessein Obama, Illinois (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:32 PM)

Barack Hussein Obama should be the next president of the United States. Islam is the new world power and soon most countries of the world will be Islamic. We need a president of muslim heritage to ease our transition into dhimmihood. Only Barack Hussein Obama will do that -- and Islamic leaders around the world will be please with our choice in an inexperienced leader with muslim heritage whome they can easily influence.
Fatima Jonquay (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:14 PM)

Audacity of Dope?
Mr Obama, You need therapy.
J, Ca (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 3:09 PM)

How did you bring change? By being a African-American Democrat to be a Caucasian Republican inumbent? Oh, wait, he brings change by just voting, "Present" or just by snorting cocaine like the rest of the failed presidents of the past.

Hillary votes like Bush?

How about Obama does drugs like Bush, and is unwilling to hold any Republican accountable for the shambled America Dumya and Darth will be leaving behind.
Jerry Is Stupid, Everywhere, America. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:21 PM)

B. Hussein Obama is a madrassa educated muslim set on suicide bombing this nation.
Redneck, USA (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:34 PM)

Did you skip over those?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:10:02 GMT

KA:

The mistakes I made in high school did not include using cocaine. I think the same can be said by the majority of people.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Nashville_fan — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:15:18 GMT

You know Carrie, the "Obama supporters are mean" bit is getting a bit old. There are plenty of mean supporters of all the candidates to go around on this blog. Your perpetual tunnel vision is getting tiresome.

You don't have to like Obama, or his supporters, but save the "high minded me" act. Your one-sided posts aren't any better.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Pope, Houston, TX — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:17:00 GMT

OBAMA = HOPE + UNITY + RESTORING OUR BELIEVE IN THIS GRAET NATION = CHANGE

I'm not suprised to see so many trying to shoot down this rare talent with their
hateful, unthoughtful and fanatical spews.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Pope, Houston, TX — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:17:02 GMT

OBAMA = HOPE + UNITY + RESTORING OUR BELIEVE IN THIS GRAET NATION = CHANGE

I'm not suprised to see so many trying to shoot down this rare talent with their
hateful, unthoughtful and fanatical spews.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:33:58 GMT

Andrea of Plano writes: "You must be really, really worried about Clinton's collapse in the polls"

Andrea, which collapse are you speaking of? The one that shows Hillary still ahead in national polls? Or the polls out of Iowa that show Obama stagnating. Yeah, that's right STAGNATING. The best kept secret among the poll pundits is that for all of Obama's hype and Oprah's much bally-hooed support (remember that media circus?)that at best he is in a statistical tie with both Clinton and Edwards in Iowa. Funny isn't that the media that kisses Obama's feet never report this fact. So which poll are you referring to that shows Clinton collapsing? It must be the same one that shows Obama can't pull ahead of Clinton no matter how much support he gets from the NY times, Oprah, Chris Matthews, and the rest of you hate spewing BO clones.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

justwaitandsee — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:36:18 GMT

Boy it sounds like Obama is getting desperate.When was the last time he was tested for "cocaine" ?
Jerry S., New Orleans, La. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:07 PM)

Anyone know the name of the book, Obama wrote on his past usage of "cocaine" ?
Robert Wagner, Andrews, N.C. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:09 PM)

How did you bring change? By being a African-American Democrat to be a Caucasian Republican inumbent? Oh, wait, he brings change by just voting, "Present" or just by snorting cocaine like the rest of the failed presidents of the past.

Hillary votes like Bush?

How about Obama does drugs like Bush, and is unwilling to hold any Republican accountable for the shambled America Dumya and Darth will be leaving behind.
Jerry Is Stupid, Everywhere, America. (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 12:21 PM)

Seriously how old are some of you people writing on this blog…. How more juvenile can you sound…? But you are Hillary Clinton’s Supporters…… Oh I am so sorry, I forgot who I was addressing… Survey did state that the more educated seem to be supporting Senator Obama…

I guess that explains it.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

wow looks tough — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:51:45 GMT

To believe in and support a candidate is our duty as Americans. To willfully mistate a candidates record or character is just bs. I do not like HRC or Obama really there is no one on either side that I am excited about. I do believe however that they are all honorable people, have some made mistales sure they have. Ill bet no one on this blog is guiltless. Clinton is Clinton, Obama talks about being a uniter, but what he says is very devicive(?spelling) I think that no matter who wins we are looking at a very tough few years!!

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:57:16 GMT

Democrats wake up and realize that the media is deciding who should be your president (or at least the nominee). The media has all but circled their wagons around Obama for reasons that I cannot understand. He is a very junior U.S. senator who doesn't have much of a record. By all accounts, he is neither a bad person nor even a bad choice, but when examined he does not seem to warrant the hoopla and press protection that he is afforded. I am only left to speculate that there is a fair amount of misogyny among the press (see Chris Matthews, Tim Russert, tucker, etc.)and that the first black president is somehow more palatable to them than the first woman. Also, does the press actually treat Obama different than the other because he is black? Are they afraid that if they are critical of him at all that they will be accused of racism or "high tech lynching"? The answer is yes.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

justwaitandsee — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 21:59:59 GMT

Remarks of Senator Barack Obama
Our Moment Is Now
Thursday, December 27th, 2007
Des Moines, Iowa

Ten months ago, I stood on the steps of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois, and began an unlikely journey to change America.

I did not run for the presidency to fulfill some long-held ambition or because I believed it was somehow owed to me. I chose to run in this election – at this moment – because of what Dr. King called “the fierce urgency of now.” Because we are at a defining moment in our history. Our nation is at war. Our planet is in peril. Our health care system is broken, our economy is out of balance, our education system fails too many of our children, and our retirement system is in tatters.

At this defining moment, we cannot wait any longer for universal health care. We cannot wait to fix our schools. We cannot wait for good jobs, and living wages, and pensions we can count on. We cannot wait to halt global warming, and we cannot wait to end this war in Iraq.

I chose to run because I believed that the size of these challenges had outgrown the capacity of our broken and divided politics to solve them; because I believed that Americans of every political stripe were hungry for a new kind of politics, a politics that focused not just on how to win but why we should, a politics that focused on those values and ideals that we held in common as Americans; a politics that favored common sense over ideology, straight talk over spin.

Most of all, I believed in the power of the American people to be the real agents of change in this country – because we are not as divided as our politics suggests; because we are a decent, generous people willing to work hard and sacrifice for future generations; and I was certain that if we could just mobilize our voices to challenge the special interests that dominate Washington and challenge ourselves to reach for something better, there was no problem we couldn’t solve – no destiny we couldn’t fulfill.

Ten months later, Iowa, you have vindicated that faith. You’ve come out in the blistering heat and the bitter cold not just to cheer, but to challenge – to ask the tough questions; to lift the hood and kick the tires; to serve as one place in America where someone who hasn’t spent their life in the Washington spotlight can get a fair hearing.

You’ve earned the role you play in our democracy because no one takes it more seriously. And I believe that’s true this year more than ever because, like me, you feel that same sense of urgency.

All across this state, you’ve shared with me your stories. And all too often they’ve been stories of struggle and hardship.

I’ve heard from seniors who were betrayed by CEOs who dumped their pensions while pocketing bonuses, and from those who still can’t afford their prescriptions because Congress refused to negotiate with the drug companies for the cheapest available price.

I’ve met Maytag workers who labored all their lives only to see their jobs shipped overseas; who now compete with their teenagers for $7-an-hour jobs at Wal-Mart.

I’ve spoken with teachers who are working at donut shops after school just to make ends meet; who are still digging into their own pockets to pay for school supplies.

Just two weeks ago, I heard a young woman in Cedar Rapids who told me she only gets three hours of sleep because she works the night shift after a full day of college and still can’t afford health care for a sister with cerebral palsy. She spoke not with self-pity but with determination, and wonders why the government isn’t doing more to help her afford the education that will allow her to live out her dreams.

I’ve spoken to veterans who talk with pride about what they’ve accomplished in Afghanistan and Iraq, but who nevertheless think of those they’ve left behind and question the wisdom of our mission in Iraq; the mothers weeping in my arms over the memories of their sons; the disabled or homeless vets who wonder why their service has been forgotten.

And I’ve spoken to Americans in every corner of the state, patriots all, who wonder why we have allowed our standing in the world to decline so badly, so quickly. They know this has not made us safer. They know that we must never negotiate out of fear, but that we must never fear to negotiate with our enemies as well as our friends. They are ashamed of Abu Graib and Guantanamo and warrantless wiretaps and ambiguity on torture. They love their country and want its cherished values and ideals restored.

It is precisely because you’ve experience these frustrations, and seen the cost of inaction in your own lives, that you understand why we can’t afford to settle for the same old politics. You know that we can’t afford to allow the insurance lobbyists to kill health care reform one more time, and the oil lobbyists to keep us addicted to fossil fuels because no one stood up and took their power away when they had the chance.

You know that we can’t afford four more years of the same divisive food fight in Washington that’s about scoring political points instead of solving problems; that’s about tearing your opponents down instead of lifting this country up.

We can’t afford the same politics of fear that tells Democrats that the only way to look tough on national security is to talk, act, and vote like George Bush Republicans; that invokes 9/11 as a way to scare up votes instead of a challenge that should unite all Americans to defeat our real enemies.

We can’t afford to be so worried about losing the next election that we lose the battles we owe to the next generation.

The real gamble in this election is playing the same Washington game with the same Washington players and expecting a different result. And that’s a risk we can’t take. Not this year. Not when the stakes are this high.

In this election, it is time to turn the page. In seven days, it is time to stand for change.

This has been our message since the beginning of this campaign. It was our message when we were down, and our message when we were up. And it must be catching on, because in these last few weeks, everyone is talking about change.

But you can’t at once argue that you’re the master of a broken system in Washington and offer yourself as the person to change it. You can’t fall in line behind the conventional thinking on issues as profound as war and offer yourself as the leader who is best prepared to chart a new and better course for America.

The truth is, you can have the right kind of experience and the wrong kind of experience. Mine is rooted in the real lives of real people and it will bring real results if we have the courage to change. I believe deeply in those words. But they are not mine. They were Bill Clinton’s in 1992, when Washington insiders questioned his readiness to lead.

My experience is rooted in the lives of the men and women on the South Side of Chicago who I fought for as an organizer when the local steel plant closed. It’s rooted in the lives of the people I stood up for as a civil rights lawyer when they were denied opportunity on the job or justice at the voting booth because of what they looked like or where they came from. It’s rooted in an understanding of how the world sees America that I gained from living, traveling, and having family beyond our shores – an understanding that led me to oppose this war in Iraq from the start. It’s experience rooted in the real lives of real people, and it’s the kind of experience Washington needs right now.

There are others in this race who say that this kind of change sounds good, but that I’m not angry or confrontational enough to get it done.

Well, let me tell you something, Iowa. I don’t need any lectures on how to bring about change, because I haven’t just talked about it on the campaign trail. I’ve fought for change all my life.

I walked away from a job on Wall Street to bring job training to the jobless and after school programs to kids on the streets of Chicago.

I turned down the big money law firms to win justice for the powerless as a civil rights lawyer.

I took on the lobbyists in Illinois and brought Democrats and Republicans together to expand health care to 150,000 people and pass the first major campaign finance reform in twenty-five years; and I did the same thing in Washington when we passed the toughest lobbying reform since Watergate. I’m the only candidate in this race who hasn’t just talked about taking power away from lobbyists, I’ve actually done it. So if you want to know what kind of choices we’ll make as President, you should take a look at the choices we made when we had the chance to bring about change that wasn’t easy or convenient.

That’s the kind of change that’s more than just rhetoric – that’s change you can believe in.

It’s change that won’t just come from more anger at Washington or turning up the heat on Republicans. There’s no shortage of anger and bluster and bitter partisanship out there. We don’t need more heat. We need more light. I’ve learned in my life that you can stand firm in your principles while still reaching out to those who might not always agree with you. And although the Republican operatives in Washington might not be interested in hearing what we have to say, I think Republican and independent voters outside of Washington are. That’s the once-in-a-generation opportunity we have in this election.

For the first time in a long time, we have the chance to build a new majority of not just Democrats, but Independents and Republicans who’ve lost faith in their Washington leaders but want to believe again – who desperately want something new.

We can change the electoral math that’s been all about division and make it about addition – about building a coalition for change and progress that stretches through Blue States and Red States. That’s how I won some of the reddest, most Republican counties in Illinois. That’s why the polls show that I do best against the Republicans running for President – because we’re attracting more support from Independents and Republicans than any other candidate. That’s how we’ll win in November and that’s how we’ll change this country over the next four years.

In the end, the argument we are having between the candidates in the last seven days is not just about the meaning of change. It’s about the meaning of hope. Some of my opponents appear scornful of the word; they think it speaks of naivete, passivity, and wishful thinking.

But that’s not what hope is. Hope is not blind optimism. It’s not ignoring the enormity of the task before us or the roadblocks that stand in our path. Yes, the lobbyists will fight us. Yes, the Republican attack dogs will go after us in the general election. Yes, the problems of poverty and climate change and failing schools will resist easy repair. I know – I’ve been on the streets, I’ve been in the courts. I’ve watched legislation die because the powerful held sway and good intentions weren’t fortified by political will, and I’ve watched a nation get mislead into war because no one had the judgment or the courage to ask the hard questions before we sent our troops to fight.

But I also know this. I know that hope has been the guiding force behind the most improbable changes this country has ever made. In the face of tyranny, it’s what led a band of colonists to rise up against an Empire. In the face of slavery, it’s what fueled the resistance of the slave and the abolitionist, and what allowed a President to chart a treacherous course to ensure that the nation would not continue half slave and half free. In the face of war and Depression, it’s what led the greatest of generations to free a continent and heal a nation. In the face of oppression, it’s what led young men and women to sit at lunch counters and brave fire hoses and march through the streets of Selma and Montgomery for freedom’s cause. That’s the power of hope – to imagine, and then work for, what had seemed impossible before.

That’s the change we seek. And that’s the change you can stand for in seven days.

We’ve already beaten odds that the cynics said couldn’t be beaten. When we started ten months ago, they said we couldn’t run a different kind of campaign.

They said we couldn’t compete without taking money from Washington lobbyists. But you proved them wrong when we raised more small donations from more Americans than any other campaign in history.

They said we couldn’t be successful if we didn’t have the full support of the establishment in Washington. But you proved them wrong when we built a grassroots movement that could forever change the face of American politics.

They said we wouldn’t have a chance in this campaign unless we resorted to the same old negative attacks. But we resisted, even when we were written off, and ran a positive campaign that pointed out real differences and rejected the politics of slash and burn.

And now, in seven days, you have a chance once again to prove the cynics wrong. In seven days, what was improbable has the chance to beat what Washington said was inevitable. And that’s why in these last weeks, Washington is fighting back with everything it has — with attack ads and insults; with distractions and dishonesty; with millions of dollars from outside groups and undisclosed donors to try and block our path.

We’ve seen this script many times before. But I know that this time can be different.

Because I know that when the American people believe in something, it happens.

If you believe, then we can tell the lobbyists that their days of setting the agenda in Washington are over.

If you believe, then we can stop making promises to America’s workers and start delivering – jobs that pay, health care that’s affordable, pensions you can count on, and a tax cut for working Americans instead of the companies who send their jobs overseas .

If you believe, we can offer a world-class education to every child, and pay our teachers more, and make college dreams a reality for every American.

If you believe, we can save this planet and end our dependence on foreign oil.

If you believe, we can end this war, close Guantanamo, restore our standing, renew our diplomacy, and once again respect the Constitution of the United States of America .

That’s the future within our reach. That’s what hope is – that thing inside us that insists, despite all evidence to the contrary, that something better is waiting for us around the corner. But only if we’re willing to work for it and fight for it. To shed our fears and our doubts and our cynicism. To glory in the task before us of remaking this country block by block, precinct by precinct, county by county, state by state.

There is a moment in the life of every generation when, if we are to make our mark on history, this spirit must break through

This is the moment.

This is our time.

And if you will stand with me in seven days – if you will stand for change so that our children have the same chance that somebody gave us; if you’ll stand to keep the American dream alive for those who still hunger for opportunity and thirst for justice; if you’re ready to stop settling for what the cynics tell you you must accept, and finally reach for what you know is possible, then we will win this caucus, we will win this election, we will change the course of history, and the real journey – to heal a nation and repair the world – will have truly begun.

Thank you.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

justwaitandsee — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:10:10 GMT

DALLAS MORNING NEWS

We Recommend: Barack Obama

Barack Obama for the Democratic nomination

12:00 AM CST on Sunday, December 23, 2007

America is at a historic crossroads as a woman, a Hispanic and an African-American vie for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination. Two of those candidates, Sens. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, were finalists for our recommendation – not because of ethnicity or gender but because they most closely aligned with our positions on major domestic and international issues.

Mr. Obama is our choice because of his consistently solid judgment, poise under pressure and ability to campaign effectively without resorting to the divisive politics of the past.

Race is not an overriding factor for us. But it is undeniable that America has failed to heal its racial wounds, including here in Dallas. We need a motivated leader capable of confronting the problem, and no candidate is better equipped than Mr. Obama. His message isn't about anger and retribution. It's about moving forward.

There's been lots of noise about his lack of experience. It is a legitimate concern, considering he's a 46-year-old first-term senator. But Mr. Obama's experience in elective office matches that of Abraham Lincoln before he became president. And he has served more time on Capitol Hill than four of the past five White House occupants.

If youthful inexperience were such a liability, it has failed to resonate despite his opponents' best efforts. Mrs. Clinton, by contrast, flip-flopped over a plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. Her campaign accepted donations from questionable sources. When Mr. Obama's support recently surged in early primary states, her campaign tried to smear him over drug use in his youth.

It's a tired ploy that has failed in four previous presidential elections. Bill Clinton twice won election after admitting he'd smoked (but not inhaled) marijuana. George W. Bush won despite an alcohol problem and drunken-driving conviction at age 30.

Mrs. Clinton called Mr. Obama "irresponsible" and "naive" for saying he would talk to leaders of rogue nations like Syria and Iran. Considering the current failed strategy of confrontation and diplomatic isolation, we think Mr. Obama is wise to include direct negotiations among his tools to reduce regional tensions.

Mr. Obama drew criticism for saying he would pursue terrorists, if necessary, by sending troops into Pakistan. The fact is, U.S. troops have been going into Pakistan for years in pursuit of terrorists. All Mr. Obama did, in effect, was to keep that option open for the future. To say otherwise is to declare Pakistan a sanctuary for America's enemies.

Mr. Obama, the son of a white American mother and black Kenyan father, spent part of his childhood in Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country.

His life experience gives him a unique perspective and a greater ability to build diplomatic bridges.

We don't always agree with his positions, but we recognize his potential to unite disparate political factions and restore cooperation between the White House and Capitol Hill.

Americans are tired of divisive, hard-edged politics. Democrats would inspire a refreshingly new approach by choosing Mr. Obama as their 2008 candidat

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:12:02 GMT

There you go again, carrie from Iowa. And we should beleive you because you are The Carrie from Iowa, that support's Biden, but has Never posted anything whatsoever about him on here. You are as fake as the support you beleive in. You do nothing but slam Barack at every oppurtunity, get a life, we know who you support & it ain't Joe Biden.
Rick,ky (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 3:47 PM)

I've never posted anything about Biden? If you really are that challenged, I shall be happy to go back through even today's postings and show you several items I have written in support of Biden. There is rarely a mention of Biden in which I don't comment about his experience and his suitability for the presidency.

But if you must assume you know all about me, go right ahead and keep on with your ignorance.

You prove my point beautifully, by the way. Just beautifully. Thanks for the assist.

J? This is EXACTLY what I am talking about.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:13:39 GMT

Left here Right there (Sent Thursday, December 27, 2007 3:43 PM)

Never been in the Hillary war room. Sorry to disappoint you. I have never attended a Hillary event, either. I went to see Bill speak last week, but Hillary was elsewhere in the state that night.

I guess you are wrong again. Probably pretty used to that, though, aren't you?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Dot, Illinois — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:24:48 GMT

I agree that there are many nasty posts on this blog. I hope I am right in giving those posters the benefit of the doubt--I think they are very,very emotionally tied to their candidate, so they do sometimes get carried away. For some, it seems to be a case of living vicariously through their candidate on a personal level--if their candidate wins, they personally win as well.That depth of feeling is difficult to define, but I sense its presence. This seems to be a campaign in which supporters really really want their candidates to win--so much so that they may, in some instances have tunnel vision. That doesn't excuse the nasty rhethoric which I don't condone but it makes it more understandable.
My concern is that with the rhetoric so forceful on both sides, what happens at the end of the day, when one candidate stands alone as the nominee of his/her party? Are we going to be able to rein in those emotions and support that nominee, or will vote for the alternative as a way of paying back the one who defeated our candidate?

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Ben, Nashville, TN — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 22:57:37 GMT

Obama wasn't attacking people directly. But if the shoe fits...

I don't disagree with anything Obama said. I think he was right and I hope he's our next president.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Rick,ky — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 23:57:32 GMT

As I said Carrie, you are as Fake as the so-called support that you post consistantly on here. OOpz, what more would i expect from a closet Hillary supporter.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Bethina Redd, Lawrence, Kansas — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 01:19:56 GMT

Actually a reporter did report that the J-J speech IS his stump speech now.

We have at least 4 people far more experienced with known talents and abilities - Obama hasnt said anything new about hope to those of us who have been following politics since the 70s. Action counts. And how is he going to unite people like Bush? They arent interested in being united. He is just the flavor of the month. A pretty speech is not as interesting to me as action. Hillary has been a hard working Methodist working for the public good her whole life. Biden - he is extremely sharp and knowledgable. Richardson - not a pretty face, not someone to light the world on fire, but much more tested and experienced. Edwards matches the passion without the arrogance of someone who has never had it hard. He wasnt in the ivory tower. Kucinich is a bit of a dreamer - not sure if he could transform it into results. I know what would happen when a know-it-all comes up against congress and other realities = because I remember Carter, who never learned, and Clinton, who did.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Left here Right there — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 13:32:15 GMT

Carrie, Eastern Iowa "I guess you are wrong again. Probably pretty used to that, though, aren't you?" Sure Carrie...if you say so...or maybe I should say "Such hate Carrie it's people like you that are causing so many to not vote for Hillary." LOL it's probably true I'm sure some of the Hillary supporters have a brain and actually see her for what she is, otherwise she wouldn't have gone from a sure thing to a struggeling cackling queen.

Obama jabs Clinton, Edwards

Harmony — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 17:03:23 GMT

It's not an attack when it's the truth.
He spoke in very general terms, but if it sticks to Hillary - oh well I guess it fits.
When Hillary slings it its ok, but when Obama does it's not? We are just not used to it from him, but we are from her.
We need Obama - he has remarkable skills to initiate the return to honor in America.
Hillary is confrontational and divisive - and her experience shows that, she's always "on the fence". It also shows that she did not do due diligience on her vote against Iraq. She trusted that Bush would do the right thing on the vote on Iran. The bulk of her experience has been failure and errors in judgement and questionable ethics. This lack of judgement is unacceptable in a president. She is interested that everyone BUY health INSURANCE - but what we need is for everyone to have health CARE - there is a difference. One way helps the corporations the other helps us. She seems scripted and pandering. Personally her phony smile with the exagerated eye opening and laugh makes my toes curl.

We don't need an "experienced" politician to lead us, we need a leader that is going in the right direction that exercises the ability to listen to all views and then implement the best recommendations based on good judgement. Obama has shown these traits in a remarkable way. He is sincere and speaks from the heart, listens intently to others and inspires people in a way that truly inspires hope in a way unseen unseen for decades.

We need his wisdom not Hillary's experience.

The world will applaude the message that America has chosen a kind and wise leader that had the foresight to be opposed to waging war.