Obama camp still feeling confident

Bill C., in Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:33:17 GMT

Yes, the momentum sure is going our way..hillaryclinton.com , come see why.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Sierra, SF — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:47:04 GMT

The matching funds for Edwards means he probably can't compete in the Feb Super Tuesday primaries.

It would seem to take a lot of money to compete in all the big media states at the same time.

That's what makes Obama and Clinton the real competitors in this race...... Money

Clinton can afford to lose Iowa more than Obama
A wind for Edwards is more surmountable for Clinton than Obama......

The trick if Edwards wins, is who is second ?
If Edwards wins, third place looks bad.....

Who drops out after Iowa ?
Biden at fifth ? Dodd at fifth ? Richardson at a weak fourth ?

Who do they endorse ?
A big first place finish by Obama or Clinton might sway that decision...
Wanting to be VP might spur them to endorse sooner

Obama camp still feeling confident

diane — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:49:17 GMT

Mark Ambinder said this is a normal briefing but, that the press will try to make it out to be something more like, is it a pre emptive thing before the dmr poll tonight? is the campaign worried?
In reality, it is just a normal briefing about the internals for the week of the first caucus and nothing more.

Obama camp still feeling confident

hillaryhater — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:58:56 GMT

This is just toooooooo good, A fourth grader, 9 years old ask Chelsa Clinton a question yesterday in Iowa. The question was "does she think her dad woudl be a good first husband"? LMAO Chesla replied; I think you are cute but i don't talk to the press and that includes you.. UH can you say "BYTCH"

Obama camp still feeling confident

Margaret, NYT — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 15:59:46 GMT

Obama campaign paying out-of-state students expenses to return to Iowa to caucus.
According to Iowa TV - Hillary gave Christmas gifts to people in low income housing.
Those 2 candidates are buying an election!

John Edwards will be a GREAT President!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:02:10 GMT

WaPo article = lobbyists are campaigning for Obama in early states.
Lobbyists endorsements for Obama, Hillary, Biden, Dodd, Richardson....

http://www.rollcall.com/politics/kstendorsements.html

John Edwards is NOT on the list!
Go Edwards!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:02:59 GMT

For some reason,Senator Obama's comment about not doing this again in eight years muddied the waters for me with respect to whom to support if Senator Biden's campaign buys the farm after Iowa. This comment, coupled with the "lack of fire" post of a few days ago makes me question just how much Senator Obama really wants his party's nomination. And since this comment originated with this wife, I wonder if she has had a slight change of heart about the whole campaign process. I wouldn't blame either of them if that was true, but their explanation of their comment about not running again in 8 years seemed strange. It has been over forty years since my husband and I lived on my salary as a dental assistant while he finished his last year of college, but I still remember what those times were like. Those experiences are a part of me and helped shape me into who I am today. And eight years, is a very short time, comparatively speaking, so even if the Obamas are in a different place at that future date, they would still know what being "ordinary" poeple is like.
I guess I just don't understand what they were trying to say. Comments?

Obama camp still feeling confident

Frank, Palatka, FL — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:03:50 GMT

Why hasn't First Read published any info about Vote Hope - the 527 and PAC raising MILLIONS for Obama.
The 527 ad supporting Edwards is funded by UNIONS.
Vote Hope is funded by the wealthy Sandler family - and other millionaires.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Ernest, MIA, FL — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:08:19 GMT

Obama's momentum has slowed. I still want him to do well though (1st or 2nd). He needs to stop sounding so desperate though. It is completely the wrong time for that.

Obama camp still feeling confident

RuthieM — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:09:21 GMT

You media are a blip. Why would you write this kind of article on Obama, because you're looking for him to fall and want Edwards to rise?

Obama camp still feeling confident

Tuck, realityville, ks — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:11:23 GMT

Obama has flat lined.
IF the the election was a month from now , he'd be i big trouble.
He still may have enough of the blind fanatics to pull this one off, but New Hampshire isn't looking good for him.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Kevin, Landover, MD — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:11:47 GMT

Edwards leaves out some very important points.

1. Edwards lost Iowa in 2004.
2. Edwards lost the Primary bid for the Democrat Presidential candidate.
3. Edward then went on as part of the 2004 loosing ticket for the general election as V.P.

Even IF Edwards won Iowa. He will then loose NH, NV.SC. Which means Hillary would possibly be the nominee. So a Vote for Edwards in Iowa is a vote wasted and for Hillary (NOT FOR CHANGE). Why go through all this and then WASTE your vote Iowa? You voted for Edwards already in 2004 and he LOST it.

Obama camp still feeling confident

JOHN, iowa City, IA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:13:15 GMT

Edwards voted 'Yea' for the Iraq War, No?

Obama camp still feeling confident

PulSamsara — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:21:40 GMT

Barack Obama for President.

Obama camp still feeling confident

jimmie — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:29:06 GMT

It's really sad that people are driven by polls to the degree, they cannot see that the esblishment is at work to avoid any major change in Washington, DC. We are begining to allow the system to destroy a great cnadidate through race baiting and smear campaigns by two of the most vicious couples in the world, all I can say is God save us from this disaster by keeping OBAMA in the running until they uncover the ploy!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Jason, Baltimore, MD — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:31:06 GMT

Momemtum is NOT going Clintons way. This is more campaign rhetoric from her clueless supporters posting nonsense. She is a BAD choice for America. Obama for a president that heals the nation and gets us back on track in the 21st century.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Jason, Baltimore, MD — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:32:36 GMT

All the Obama suported I have seen have been concerned grass roots voters. Is is the Clinton camp with all the fanatics if you ask me.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Rick,ky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:33:23 GMT

Dot, for me personally, i think the statement goes more toward Term Limits generally speaking. Way to many politician's get to Washington & think it is their right to remain there.Of,course, voter's think otherwise.

Obama camp still feeling confident

AC, Boston MA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:41:06 GMT

Exactly Kevin. I hope Iowans are weighing what a victory for Edwards here would mean down the road for the party, carefully;especially for those who do not want Clinton.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Steve, Hartford, CT — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:41:43 GMT

Dot, I seem to recall that you aren't an Obama supporter anyway, but he's not going to run again in 8 years because he won't win. You don't get a second chance to win the presidency (unless you spend ALL the intervening time running like Edwards has, and what good would that do for the country? none).

I would think it would also be insulting to hear that he should wait 8 years. He's got more elected experience than Hillary or Edwards, more popularity than any of the experienced candidates, and he is good at knowing where to get advice on things. Would YOU want to be told to wait 8 years if YOU were in his position?

It hardly matters, because you live in Illinois. Pipe down.

Obama camp still feeling confident

George — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:41:44 GMT

http://www.latimes.com/media/acrobat/2007-12/34474570.pdf

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dickie Flatts, Charlotte, NC — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:48:25 GMT

Obama and his employees should not get away with such loose arguement. Any intellectual should point out a few things.

1) They are cherry picking one poll - the 2 week old Zogby poll - to make their case on the electability issue. There have also been polls showing Edwards fairing best, and polls showing Clinton doing better.

2) They ignore the states in favor of the national numbers when talking about electability. This is because recent polling ha shown that Clinton seems to be the only one who puts certain states - like Virginia - into play. Recent polling also shows Obama doesn't fair well in Minnesota. Ohio is a weakness for him as well.

3) This crowd stuff is weak. Think Howard Dean here when we talk crowd size. Dean drew big crowds. Heck Bill Richardson drew 400 or 500 the other night. Does that mean he is going to win?

4) Lastly, independent voters don't decide who the Democratic nominee is.

Obama is going to be suffering from "Joementum" come Friday morning if this is the best he and his campaign can do.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Charles Menton — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:53:39 GMT

This is just toooooooo good, A fourth grader, 9 years old ask Chelsa Clinton a question yesterday in Iowa. hillaryhater - [The question was "does she think her dad woudl be a good first husband"? LMAO Chesla replied; I think you are cute but i don't talk to the press and that includes you.. UH can you say "BYTCH" ]

Chelsea is certainly a chip off the old block. Just another one in the family that despises anyone asking them questions. And it's not like they keep Chelsea around for eye-candy. She, Chelsea, appears to be just another prop that will disappear once she is no longer needed. Then she can go back to her "low six-figure" job at the hedge-fund where she works.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:54:01 GMT

Steve, hartford, CT

Thank you for the response. I would most respectfully suggest that if you read many of my earlier posts, you will not that I have often said I would support Senator Obama if he wins the nomination.

Rick, ky Thank you for your response, as well. I was not being critical of Senator Obama--I really didn't (don't?) understand his explanation.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Joseph Pierre — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:55:57 GMT

Margaret,
Edwards is as fake as Romney.There's no way those two phonies should be allowed to become president.Je used to charge exorbitant fees to give speeches on poverty, was a hedge fund pirate, and put his wife through such rigorous campaign when diagnosed with cancer. In addition, there's nothing in JE's past to indicate he would fight for the poor. His years as a U.S. senetor were dismal.He voted for the Iraq war when it was politically convenient and popular to do so; then, changed his mind about it when it was popular and expedient to do so.Notice that he's never told voters how he plans to fight the corporations and lobbyists. Is he going to hit them over the heads with a baseball bat or use a magic wand to make them disappear? Funny how those talking heads haven't asked that question. Voters should think about that.Aside from being a hypocrite for knowingly letting interest groups spend millions on his campaign, he miraculously metamorphosed into a brazing populist overnight.Do you smell opportunists when you think and see Edwards and HRC? You should because that's what they are.Also, racist to HRC's column.No thinking person should be fooled by those tricksters. I don't understand how such an educated electorate could make the same mistake over and over in each election by nominating such uninspiring losers, then complain later.They truly deserve to lose if they can't see the light.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Martin — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:58:49 GMT

The funny thing is that because a few Hussein Obama-lovers are all over the net writing Hillary-bashing comments they think their candidate is winning. But Hillary has real people supporting her who are busy doing real things and don't have time to spend on the net all the time. Hussein Obama-lovers have nothing else to do than to spend time on the net.

So Hussein Obama-lovers are in for a big surprise when Hillary wins.

Hillary is the greatest - clever, warm, honest and experienced. You go girl!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:05:57 GMT

Steve, Hartford, Ct

My apologizes for a typo. I meant to say you will note that I have always said I would support Senator Obama if he is the nominee of his party. And again, most respectfully, even though I live in Illinois, I do get to vote in the General Election and I think my vote then will matter.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Rick,ky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:12:04 GMT

The MSM has for months now, been trying to convince anyone that would listen, that Barack has to Win Iowa, or he could'nt compete in the Primary's that will follow.His campaign is'nt downplaying anything!!!!His campaign has been Financed by the people, & the people are in it for the long haul.He was'nt able to raise close to a hundred million, just to compete in Iowa. A win in Iowa can only continue the Momentum into NH & SC, however a 2nd place showing in Iowa will mean that he will have to campaign harder up & until Feb-5th.Personally, my Hope is that Barack will Win in a Landslide in IOwa & the MSM will have egg on their face for putting so much Faith into Politic's as usual ( Hillary). We will see come this thursday, if anything, who was Right & who was Wrong.

" DELUSIONAL THINKING BY COMMON SENSE AMERICAN'S IS OVER "

Obama camp still feeling confident

Rick,ky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:15:21 GMT

Hussein-Martin go Away, how about it!!!

Obama camp still feeling confident

--NSMsnbc — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:23:24 GMT

The media's expectations of Obama confuses me. The media has raised the expectations, so that he has to win and by a lot. It just seems strange to have different expectations in what appears to be a three-way race. Whoever wins should get a boost, regardless of how much.

[I guess I just don't understand what they were trying to say. Comments?
Dot, Illinois (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 11:02 AM)]
--Dot, I guess I would comment that the political aspect of the statement is pretty transparent to me. Peoples' main criticism of Obama is that he is 'too inexperienced' and that he needs eight years to mature. Well, eight years in the future doesn't do much for his election campaign right now, so this statement was probably made to stem that argument and make people look at him now as opposed to the future. To the contrary, I believe he really does want the party's nomination (his policies are very Democrat), and he has real Democratic goals he wants to achieve but in a bipartisan manner. Realistically, I would take the statement with a grain of salt. He may not have any intention of running again, but that doesn't men he absolutely won't. They made the point in a very awkward manner, though, didn't they? That's how it seems to me anyway.

Obama camp still feeling confident

John, Des Moines, IA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:24:29 GMT

Dot: I've seen your other posts. You've never been an Obama supporter, so you're not fooling anyone.

But for those who are actually interested in understanding Barack's comment about not running again in 8 years:

It has NOTHING to do with how much he "Wants" the nomination. This isn't a football game folks. He was merely pointing out that he's still only a few years removed from the concerns of middle class America: paying off student loans, saving for his kids education, growing out of his family's small condo.

It's a very valid thought to bring to the conversation.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:33:03 GMT

John, Des Moines, IA

I can't cite you specific instances, I will be happy to look them up, but I have said a number of times that I would be happy to support Senator Obama if he wins the party's nomination. My first choice is Senator Biden, but if that isn't possible, I will support Senator Obama. I must say that the alacrity with which supporters of your candidate jump to incorrect perceptions about simple questions about your candidate is unwarranted. I WILL SUPPORT SENATOR OBAMA IF HE IS THE NOMINEE OF HIS PARTY!!!

Obama camp still feeling confident

John Alexander,Edinboro,PA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:42:27 GMT

I agree with you Dot, it was a strange comment.
Would he change two years into his presidency? Would he still understand 'normal' americans problems.
Washington changes everyone, the process changes everyone. With Obamas observation that he would think differently after a few years, wouldn't that mean that once he was in office that he would change?
Just musings on this strange comment, don't hate me Obama-maniacs, if he gets the nod I will support him, like most dems would. Don't attack us now, you may need us in the general. listen to your candidate, he is playing above the mud for the most part, you should too. Dot does not need to shut up, she is just as worried about our country as all you other folks say you are. Let her speak, it's still a free country.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Paul, Annapolis, MD — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:43:29 GMT

Since he took federal funds, Edwards can't compete with the Clinton machine once we get towards Tsunami Tuesday. A vote for him is a vote for Hillary, only Obama can beat her.

Sad as it is, if you're a supporter of Edwards or a lesser candidate, unless you want the Hill and Bill show to return to the WH, please vote for Obama. An Obama win in Iowa would push him into wins in NH and SC, and topple the Clinton dynasty.

America NEEDS you to do this. Hillary in the general would be horrific, not only because she could win, but because she could lose! Obama would roll in the general election, and could bring the change Edwards supporters demand.

Iowa, we depend on you to do the right thing, please don't give us a rerun of the failed Kerry campaign of 4 years ago. Vote Obama.

Obama camp still feeling confident

realitybites — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:49:10 GMT

Still feeling confident ?

1. Obama's base - young people start leaving him. Some papers and blogs shows that those young voters didn't like his reaction to Bhutto's death. Even Chris Matthew said " That's cold"
2. Obama start loosing "media smooth ride". You can't back up a" speech guy", if he can't talk right wothout making speech.
3. Some Iowan voters say Obama doesn't do well with Q&A, lack of deeper explainations, thoughts, too much same thing they heard in JJ Diner, not much new, too stiff, too much lines.
4. Morning Joe said, Republicans are scared if Hillary win the nomenee. Republican don't have to say a word if Obama win the nomenee. That is why Republicans are pushing Obama.
5. Voters don't like Obama attack everyone now. He has been using Edwards and now Edwards poll is better than his and he is insecure.
6. Media threw knives to Hillary for the whole time and never gave her an easy ride. But she is still standing, leading, looks more vetted, tested, tougher, stronger than ever. She outshine Obama. Obama never had experince like Hillary's for the whole campaign.
7. Oprah did not help Obama. After voters noticed 130 "present" voting record, they changed their minds because some of the issues are about their interests and Obama did not help.
8. Obama's wife told voters "now or never". That gave voters a message of what type of candidate they are. Another example of showing INEXPERINCE. It seperated him from Hillary, Biden, Dodd, Edwards... who have been through way more than him.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:54:23 GMT

It hardly matters, because you live in Illinois. Pipe down.
Steve, Hartford, CT (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 11:41 AM)

Exhibit A why many people are driven away by some Obama supporters.

Dot asked a fair question - a reasonable question, that in no way was disrespectful towards Obama, his wife or his family. And Steve responds with rudeness.

Very typical of that breed of Obama supporters who cannot tolerate anything but platitudes for their man. How sad they will be when they at last discover he is only human.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 17:56:27 GMT

I must say that the alacrity with which supporters of your candidate jump to incorrect perceptions about simple questions about your candidate is unwarranted. I WILL SUPPORT SENATOR OBAMA IF HE IS THE NOMINEE OF HIS PARTY!!!
Dot, Illinois (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 12:33 PM)

I absolutely agree, Dot. It's a turn-off for undecided voters when their questions are responded to with such a rude, dismissive attitude.

Obama camp still feeling confident

csh, IL — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:00:55 GMT

Obama has spent more time and money in Iowa than any of the democratic candidates. He must win Iowa to continue.

And, as we know, he has yet to win a single debate!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Mark G. Atl., Ga. — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:03:59 GMT

Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland campaigned in Iowa for Hillary over the weekend. On Sunday, the Gov. was quoted saying that the Iowa caucus "make no sense" and are "hugely undemocratic". Statements like this, not a campaign managers press briefing, cause Iowa caucus goers blood to boil.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Richard Owens, Des Moines, IA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:06:12 GMT

The slippage in Iowa has started, Over 1000 Iowans pack Obama rally today (50% undecided!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdmM9z-XjHQ

Obama camp still feeling confident

Nashville_fan — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:14:04 GMT

lol Dot!

I see things are still a little chippy in here - be glad when Jan 3 come and goes! :)

Based on the entire campaign, nothing has changed my vote - I am supporting Senator Obama. That said, I will support whoever the eventual winner is, and none of the Democratic candidates are evil (I hope) - so maybe let's take a chill pill on this last day of 2007! :)

Obama camp still feeling confident

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:24:54 GMT

Dot, I have never taken you for being anti-Obama. I didn't here the comment from the Obama camp about not running in 8 years, but I'm sure it is similar to Biden saying he won't accept Secretary of State. They both want to be president and are actually the most deserving candidates running. The problem is Hillary supporters keep deflecting to say Joe should be SOS and Obama should wait his turn. Their view is that Hillary's entitled to this chance. Of course they are basing that on the fact people have been expecting her to run, but that doesn't mean she's entitled to the nomination.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Kelly (from Pittsburgh) — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:29:26 GMT

The MSM is now trying to push Edwards in Iowa. Not because they actually support him, but because that's want the Clinton's want. She came out and said weeks ago that she doesn't care if she wins Iowa, so long as Obama does not.

People for change who are torn between Edwards and Obama need to see this for what it is. Obama is the only candidate with a real shot of beating Hillary (and she knows it). Right now, the establishment machine (including MSM) is trying to fight the change American's desperately want. Please show them at the polls, that we aren't buying their BS any longer.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Bobby in DFW — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:31:53 GMT

I can only hope and pray that the Iowa caucus participants possess sufficient sophistication to see through the deceptive and malicious attacks that have been made on Senator Obama and trust their hearts because the choice they make on January 3 will dramatically shape the direction of this presidential campaign and ultimately our country's future. My Christmas wish is that they will reject the politics of fear and personal destruction and take a leap of faith and hope by voting for Senator Obama--a man of character and vision who offers the promise of a new and different way of addressing our national and global priorities. Waxing a bit nostalgic here during the holiday season--remembering a time when we came together as a nation to address wrongs and achieve lofty goals, a time when all the world looked to America as a beacon of liberty and freedom and courage. I know in my heart Senator Obama can take us back there.

Our dreams unlock the door

To a place we once called home

Where full of life’s sweet promise

Our spirits freely roamed

Back to a time when we still believed

In all of life’s possibilities

Our dreams can lead us

To a future all our own

bjw

Senator Obama and his campaign can unlock the door to the realization of our dreams for ourselves and this great nation that we are blessed to live in.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Steve, Hartford, CT — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:45:25 GMT

...which doesn't make you an Obama supporter at this stage of the game, Dot.

I apologize if the tone of my post was irritable, but I do get annoyed at hearing that Obama should wait and run again later (and it IS a fairly common argument). I don't understand your perception that not wanting to run 8 years down the road means Obama doesn't "want" the nomination badly enough. Are you saying he isn't ambitious enough? That would surprise me, since the usual line of criticism is the opposite of that.

Anyway, Obama made the point in "The Audacity of Hope" that being in Washington tends to distance one from what life is like for real Americans. Instead of seeing homeless people ask for change, or talking with people about life's problems at a laundromat or something, one is instead meeting with rich people in suits almost all the time. So the only things one ever hears, then, come from rich people in suits. That's why Washington has such a strange culture of governance: a fundamental disconnect between those in power and those they govern has emerged. I think that might be Obama's point--but I don't work for the campaign, so feel free to ask someone at www.barackobama.com about it.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:50:38 GMT

NSMSNBC

Thank you for your response. Very informative. As you know, I like to ask questions in an effort to get to know as much as I can about all of the candidates. Lately, however, I have begun to think that this site may not be the forum on which to ask those questions. Too many who post here seem to erroneously detect implied criticism of their candidate when my posts are merely attempts to get to know their candidate's positions better. Personally, I think that lessens the content of this site--intelligent discussions about how a candidate feels about a certain issue, and requests for clarifications of a candidate's comments add much to the content of this site. Just my opinion, perhaps I am wrong.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Chris, Chicago IL. — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 18:56:27 GMT

I wonder when the time comes to bring the Democratic Party together for 2008 General Elections, who is best suited for both being the nominee and bring together ALL parts of the Democratic Party and Independents to vote on the same ticket? I believe that Clinton, Obama, and Edwards are great candidates for the party and can each be a great nominee, but I do believe that after this process is done whomever is the nominee will have a hard job in pulling together the party plus independent voters (like myself) against a very weak Republican field (let us not forget that we all thought Al Gore was much stronger against Bush and look what happened to that election). I think that we should keep an eye on who will be the VP nominee for the Democrats. My gut feeling is Clinton, Obama, and Edwards will choose outside of the pack of candidates that are running for president, and the reason is fear of being upstaged(especially if Clinton wins, she will not choose Obama for her VP).

Obama camp still feeling confident

AP from IL — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:03:04 GMT

I certainly hope the people of Iowa don't miss this chance to go forward with the strongest candidate against the Republicans. By all the editorials, match-up polls, and blogs, on both sides, that I have seen that candidate is Obama.

I see major problems with Clinton and Edwards. Edwards is seen as way to liberal and confrontational to attract independents, plus he lost already and so there is a perception issue by default. Not only is Clinton going to be horribly bloodied by the time the general rolls around, she will never be an effective president unless the congress is pure Democratic as well. She will constantly be harrassed by the Republicans for as long as she is in office and I personally don't want to face 4 more years of bitter polarization. 50% of the country will never accept her just as the other 50% never accepted Bush.

Obama is the only candidate that has Republicans changing parties in Iowa to caucus for him. He is the only one that will go on to win NH with the help of independents who otherwise would vote for McCain. He already has a stellar reputation in IL for bringing opposing sides together and producing results. This goes for his community organizing years as well as his time in the state legislature.

In my opinion, Obama's credentials as an electable candidate are unquestionable.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Sierra, SF — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:19:09 GMT

To gain momentum, Obama must finish above Clinton

Likewise, to gain momentum Hillary must finish above Obama

Unless it's a blow out, both will be competitive in NH

First place would be a real buzz for either and might 'seal the deal' in NH

I don't think ANYBODY KNOWS what will happen on Thrusday.....
People may still be making up their minds...

Make the right choice, Iowa !!

Obama '08

Obama camp still feeling confident

mark — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:28:01 GMT

let's face the facts: iowa is unpredictable because of second choice votes. any one of the three could win iowa. clinton and obama have the money to compete after iowa...edwards in my opinion is wasted vote.

Obama camp still feeling confident

--NSMsnbc — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:35:32 GMT

I absolutely agree, Dot. It's a turn-off for undecided voters when their questions are responded to with such a rude, dismissive attitude.
Carrie, Eastern Iowa (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 12:56 PM)
--I agree with Dot's observation of some of the replies to her post, and I won't defend that. But why always focus on those people or comments when there are other people who did and do not answer in such a way. Are Obama folks really worse than say Clinton folks or Biden folks for example? (They could be, but that has not been my observation, though ...). A sub-set of supporters for any candidate are loco. Hopefully, people can keep the candidates and supporters separate--judge the candidates, not the people.

Obama does have a point in what he says though, that he remembers what it is like to face the challenges the majority of Americans face. I think it makes him a stronger candidate, and I think it would make him fight harder for us.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Angry — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:42:26 GMT

Obama is a con man. More like con man. His sixth and seventh important acts as a senator were to vote for a bill that made it nearly impossible for ordinary people to sue giant corporations who rob & defraud. He voted for President Bush's energy bill, sending more than $13 billion in subsidies and tax breaks to oil, coal, and nuclear companies. He voted to allow credit card companies to raise interest rates over 30 percent. He spoke out against the Patriot Act, only to vote in favor of reauthorizing it, he cannot commit to have all troops out of Iraq by 2013, supported Bush's sanctions against Iran and co-sponsored a bill designating the Iranian National Guard a terrorists organization, he implied he'd invade Pakistan.. He accepts money from lobbyists then denies it.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 19:56:04 GMT

Mark:

My blood is not boiling. He has a point; the caucus is harder for those who work at night to attend. He is entitled to his opinion, as everyone who has ranted about Iowa being first is entitled to their opinion.

Incidentally, I love how many people on this blog, and elsewhere, say how this or that makes Iowans mad, or Iowans love this, or Iowans won't go for that. What I want to know from these people is how many times they have been to Iowa? I'd bet zero for almost all of them.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Kaylie, Tempe, AZ — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:01:43 GMT

Wow...and still nothing about Ron Paul.
Imagine that!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:19:01 GMT

Steve, Hartford, Ct
...which doesn't make you an Obama supporter at this stage of the game, Dot.

I apologize if the tone of my post was irritable, but I do get annoyed at hearing that Obama should wait and run again later (and it IS a fairly common argument).
----------------------------------------------------
Okay, I'll grant you that I am not an Obama supporter at this stage of the game. But this stage of the game is not all there is---even though I support Senator Biden now, that becomes a moot point if his candidacy falters. If your candidate makes it to the general election(which, after all is the one that counts) I will happily support him. Okay? Senator Obama and Senator Clinton supporters need to realize that which ever candidates wins the nomination, in November, he/she will need the support of those people who voted for someone else in the primaries and caucuses. Without the support of former Biden, Dodd, or Richardson supporters, the Democratic nominee will have a more difficult time defeating the Republican nominee. Rude and dismissive comments about those supporters of "lower tier" candidates does little to endear the candidate you support to those supporters of others. Nor does it garner support for you candidate for undecided independents.

With respect to the comment that Senator Obama should wait and run again later, I don't think I said that. My point was that I don't think eight years will drastically change his outlook on things, which I think is good at the present time--his values and goals seem to be strongly rooted. Which in part, was why I didn't understand his comment in the first place.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Chris, Adaville, Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:20:11 GMT

Obama is the only one who stands for the truth..Obama 08

Obama camp still feeling confident

Big Al from Chicago — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:38:07 GMT

TO: Chris, Adaville, Iowa, FROM: Big Al in Chicago- Don't you Iowa people get some Chicago news? Even I can pick up WHO-AM radio from Des Moines!
The only truth Rezkobama understands is the almighty dollar. He has been on the take from corrupt and indicted Chicago businessmen for years! The Chicago Sun-Times newspaper is slightly left of Lenin and even they have run a series of articles detailing Rezkobamas link to the cancerous Democratic machine that runs Chicago and Cook County.
Democrats like to cry about stolen elections because they are the experts on that subject- there has not been a Republican mayor of Chicago for over 80 years! That is not the will of the people, that is one party rule where pawns on bloated payrolls owe their jobs to the Democrats!

Vote early and vote often!

Big Al

Obama camp still feeling confident

vanreuter, NY NY — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:45:17 GMT

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/12/31/whos-interests-are-special/

http://www.time.com/time/2007/thepage/Obama_Strategy.pdf

http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071231/NEWS09/71231014/1001/NEWS

And the DMR's final poll will be out tonight.

While I'm obviously not an Obama supporter, even I am surprised at the seeming last minute ineptitude of his brain trust and potentially disastrous, counter-intuitive, idea of RAISING expectations.
Calling Unions, "special interests", just like a republican and the last-minute attempts to torpedo John Edwards don't seem to be very good ideas either.

Van

Van

Obama camp still feeling confident

Tim Kelly, Oakland, CA — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 20:47:31 GMT

Obama will motivate the country in a way that no other candidate can. Make us proud Iowa!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Rick,ky — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 21:35:27 GMT

Carrie, eastern Iowa, Extra-Strength MIDOL helps some women!!!!!!!!!
Dot, i gave you a response to my take on the question. Anyone who says my response was disrespectful to you, has no idea what there talking about.
Van, Hillary & her supporter's are more Ruthless than anyone of the candidates running.You all see her Dream VANishing, right before your eyes.These last 72 hours or so will show a lot more of behind the scenes Carville. Barack has taken the aura of Electability from her & it shows in his Campaign appearances. She did'nt even take questions at a campaign stop shown on C-Span this weekend. George bush lite, my ass, She is cut from the same cloth.

" DELUSIONAL THINKING BY COMMON SENSE AMERICAN'S IS OVER"

Obama camp still feeling confident

Big Al from Chicago — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:02:07 GMT

Barack Hussein Rezkobama is your typical crooked Chicago Democrat on the take from special interests. You coastal dwelling people get very little Chicago local news. Even the Chicago Sun-Times newspaper, which is slightly left of Lenin, ran a series of articles on Rezkobama's crooked dealings. Do your homework- Rezmar Corporation.
One of Illinois' most prominent local Democratic fundraisers, Rezko and his companies donated over $200,000 to Obama. Rezko also hosted a 2003 event to boost Obama's campaign fund.

Obama and his wife were already flush with success when they went house hunting last year. Their combined income--bolstered by payments for his best-selling autobiography and advances for future books--topped $1.67 million. His wife, Michelle, had recently been promoted to a $316,962-a-year position as vice president at the University of Chicago Hospitals. House has 4 fireplaces. Rezkobama, a man of the people! The Chicago Sun-Times recently reported that Mr. Rezko, around the same general period he was wheeling with Obama, also provided a preferential price for a property purchase by U. S. Representative Luis Gutierrez (D). There is a pattern here. Instead of transferring cash to buy influence, Rezko was engaging in structured property transactions and preferential treatment of public officials to confer significant financial benefits on them, far above the legal limits of any legitimate political contribution permitted by federal law.

Barack Hussein Rezkobama wrote letters to city and state officials supporting his political patron Tony Rezko's successful bid to get more than $14 million from taxpayers to build apartments for senior citizens. The deal included $855,000 in development fees for Rezko and his partner, Allison S. Davis, Obama's former boss, according to records from the project, which was four blocks outside Obama's state Senate district. Obama's letters, written nearly nine years ago, for the first time show the Democratic presidential hopeful did a political favor for Rezko -- a longtime friend, campaign fund-raiser and client of the law firm where Obama worked -- who was indicted last fall on federal charges that accuse him of demanding kickbacks from companies seeking state business under Illinois Democratic Governor Blagojevich. In addition to a land deal, Sen. Barack Obama's ties to indicted dealmaker Antoin "Tony" Rezko include an internship the senator provided the son of a contributor at the request of Rezko, an Obama spokesman confirmed Saturday. John Aramanda served as an intern for Obama in 2005, said Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs. His father is Joseph Aramanda, a Rezko business associate who was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal corruption case against Rezko. Aramanda has contributed $11,500 to Obama since 2000, Gibbs said.
Barack Hussein Rezkobama has been friends with Rezko for 17 years. Rezko has been a political patron to Obama and many others, helping to raise millions of dollars for them through his own contributions and by hosting fund-raisers in his home.
Obama, who has worked as a lawyer and a legislator to improve living conditions for the poor, took campaign donations from Rezko even as Rezko's low-income housing empire was collapsing, leaving many African-American families in buildings riddled with problems -- including squalid living conditions, vacant apartments, lack of heat, squatters and drug dealers.
The building in Englewood was one of 30 Rezmar rehabbed in a series of troubled deals largely financed by taxpayers. Every project ran into financial difficulty. More than half went into foreclosure, a Chicago Sun-Times investigation has found.
"Their buildings were falling apart," said a former city official. "They just didn't pay attention to the condition of these buildings."
Eleven of Rezko's buildings were in Obama's state Senate district. Rezkobama is friends with Tony Rezko, who was charged last fall with demanding kickbacks on state business deals under Illinois Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

The Democrats bemoan the high cost of healthcare and claim it is due to the greed of insurance and pharmaceutical firms, then perhaps Barrack Hussein Rezkobama can explain how the University of Chicago Hospitals can afford to pay Michelle Obama a $316,962-a-year position as vice president for community and external affairs. I guess you can't run a hospital without a VP of Community Affairs and those jobs require at least $300K+ salary. Perhaps this would be better spent on patient care! The U of C Hospitals are right in Obama's Hyde Park neighborhood, how convenient! Who got Michelle Obama the job? Did Tony Rezko pull some strings?

Vote Early and Vote Often!

Big Al

Obama camp still feeling confident

Carrie, Eastern Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:05:18 GMT

Carrie, eastern Iowa, Extra-Strength MIDOL helps some women!!!!!!!!!

Rick,ky (Sent Monday, December 31, 2007 4:35 PM)

Wow, Rick. I am constantly amazed at your ability to make intelligent arguments grounded in issues rather than personally attack people.

Oh and by the way, I've heard Viagra works wonders as well. Maybe you wouldn't be so cranky if you...well, you know.

Obama camp still feeling confident

Dot, Illinois — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:30:33 GMT

Rick, ky
Dot, i gave you a response to my take on the question. Anyone who says my response was disrespectful to you, has no idea what there talking about.

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

Nothing wrong with your response to me. It was informative. Happy New Year!

Obama camp still feeling confident

SPS, Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:06:45 GMT

Obama is imploding. After another few days of his sniveling, carping and whining and then losing, followed no doubt by more sniveling, carping and whining, his "politics of hope" will be exposed for the total fraud it is. In the end, Barak Obama may not win a single state, much less the nomination.

Obama camp still feeling confident

NinaK — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:39:47 GMT

I just watched Bill Clinton on C-Span speaking for Hillary. He listed a number of things Hillary has done and what she can do---beginning with "Hillary thinks...." Personally, how can he know what Hillary thinks? Then to proceed with exactly "what she would do" -- he is not credible!! He is projecting HIS own ideas and crediting Hill-a-Bill joined at the hip. IF Hillary has in fact done all these alleged specific things, why has she not mentioned them???? If she is going to do all these alledged specific things, why has she not talked in detail about them???
What we've gotten from Hill is a lot of generalities and evasiveness!!! Can she not find her mouth or her brain to speak for herself??? Truth, as I see it, she is incapable of giving specifics, she has to use Bill as both her think tank and her mouthpiece. Guess we all know why she has sold her soul to him. We Americans cannot be blinded by Bill's "she thinks what SHE, HERSELF, has told us. Bill will say anything to get themselves back in the white house, and I, personnally, think that is disgraceful!

Obama camp still feeling confident

NinaK — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:47:52 GMT

NinaK

Big Al. Michelle Obama got her job on her own merits. She is intelligent, independent, and well-schooled. She is also a FIRST-CLASS LADY! Unlike Hillary who failed her bar exams TWICE in Wash DC, is NOT independent, and is NOT a first-class lady.
Big Al, I also think you are a big, bitter racist and narrow-minded! Mr. Obama is the best candidate for our time and I have faith he can lead our country back to greatness. What can YOU do to make our country better? What can YOU do to make your state better? What can YOU do to make your city/town better? What can YOU do to make your street better? Umm, probably nothing...you are too racist and too bitter to give of your time and self!!

Obama camp still feeling confident

Jeane James — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 01:14:06 GMT

if we humans were learning by our mistakes we would encourage Edwards to give Obama the chance to win as he is a "Fresh" choice like a breath of fresh air that may purify the past "unpure" actions of Presidents who have served. Then we can move into the future with optimism, "Pure" hope and deliverance from stress. Edwards will make a good Vice-President

Obama camp still feeling confident

Jeane James — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 01:22:59 GMT

Obama camp still feeling confident

Steve, Cedar Rapids, Iowa — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 01:41:09 GMT

Hi folks--

From Iowa: If this were a primary, Obama would clean up Thursday night. It's not, and the old school candidates (Clinton and Edwards) possess numerically more of the (stereo)typical Democratic voters---union sympathizers, neo-liberals, NPR-types of self-satisfied do-gooders (in contrast, in fairness, to the polyster-clad numbskulls populating the Republican caucuses down the hall in the school cafeteria). If Obama can even come close to the 'dead heat' polls, it should be counted as a huge win for him, here, as he will do it by attracting people to the political process who are significantly more 'mainstream', independent-thinking, and so forth. A huge question is whether the 'old school' (Clintonites, Bush-Cheney people, entrenched interests in general) has fouled things up so badly that the 'normal' people (read: Neither of the two variants described above) will be willing to spend two hours on a cold Thursday night to say they are 'fed up.' I think Iowans are ready to continue 'throwing the bums out', as evidenced, specifically, here, by: 1) Voting out a 28 year incumbent liberal Republican congressman (Jim Leach); and, 2) In Cedar Rapids, specifically, literally throwing out the entire form of government only two years ago. Obama best epitomizes the overriding sense here; if he can get a quarter to a third of the people to show up and be involved, he's the winner. (P.S., unless the Republicans nominate a real demagogue, the middle voters in Iowa will abandon her in November.) Have fun, everyone; for me, I'm deciding whether I want to forego a cold beer and the first half of a football game I don't care too much about to go caucus. It's a tough call.

Obama camp still feeling confident

jack — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 10:39:20 GMT

I am stunned that the silly Democrats in Iowa might vote for the populist candidate in the Democratic caucus and thus throw away their vote and help get Hillary elected. If your vote is going to result in corporatist triangulator winning anyway why not cut out a few steps and vote for Obama directly. The Pritzker family, thousands of corporate lawyers, and Big Pharma all thank you.

Obama camp still feeling confident

James San Jose CA — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 09:47:48 GMT

Sigh, I see that the Obama cultist have set up shop here. Of all the candidates in the Democratic field his following seems to be the most cult-like and messianic. Other than two books and two years in the US Senate, what do you base all this excess enthusiasm on? Obama is finally getting the long, hard look he should have gotten when he first came out of the box. He is getting beat up because he has been screwing up. It is called vetting a candidate kiddies get used to it.
If he survives he will be better for it. But it isn't likely that he will survive. Obama is the Wizard of Oz on steroids, all flash-no substance. He is loosing core constituencies of the Democratic party; not a good plan for the General Election. He lost the Unions now he is irritating the trial lawyers, who is next the teachers?
Hello! The man is running for the Democratic party nomination! These are your go-to guys and gals who do the street level grunt work in the General. They are the trench workers who have fought the battles before, you can not replace that kind of tribal knowledge with thousand of youngsters, even if they decide to show up.
Obama is slagging the core of the Democratic Party to pick up vote with people who are not invested in the party--a short sighted decision. But what do you expect from a guy who pals around with Joe Lieberman DINO extradinare? Now or Never? I'll take never thank you very much.