Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

hill — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:47:16 GMT

I was surprised at the visible display of anger by clinton, she attacked 1st and then couldn't handle the counter-attack, if you can't take it, don't dish it, I was impressed with edwards performance but still voting for obama

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Aidyn, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:48:16 GMT

Hillary did well tonight! I am glad!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John, Providence — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:49:32 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

cgibson — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:50:43 GMT

She definitely lost it. If the media decides to run that clip, then it is bad news.

Obama seemed to benefit from the fact that Richardson keep throwing out JFK as a model of how inspiration can be important.

I found Obama's comments about the Clinton Administration doing nothing to build lasting majority or build the party. I think Obama talking about the importance of building a larger tent really resonates with Dems and Independents.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

boston, ma — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:51:09 GMT

Wow! Schrillary is not a good loser. Her breakdown is filled with so much ANGER!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:51:16 GMT

Chuck - I agree things change fast. Who a few weeks ago was talking about New Hampshire as a potential must-win for Clinton? And I think your analysis about the switched benefits of a one-on-one is correct.

Oh, wait, my mistake. I guess I have it wrong. I just heard the Clinton camp thinks she had a great night and Obama looked weak. Who knew?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

dana — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:51:18 GMT

Just how shallow are you guys anyway? This is political analysis? Well, at least Matthews has the night off!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ryan M. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:53:41 GMT

Clinton lost her cool... It is all about her.. "I deliver change, blah, blah, ..." She doesn't get it. Change is about the American people, not one individual. Barack, John, and Bill all have it right...

Clinton shouted back at Edwards... She is the status quo... As a whole, she did not look Presidential.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Marcia, Gold Canyon, AZ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:55:06 GMT

In board rooms and meeting rooms across America, women who sit by, docile, while the man three seats down co-opts her hard work and brilliant ideas, lose credit for their work, promotions, pay and recognition. It's something we have had to learn the hard way...toot your own horn, nobody else will do it for you! Hillary came back exactly as she needed to to own her experience, her talent and years of hard work...BRAVO. Rhetoric and inspiration don't necessarily lead anywhere...there has to be a solid plan of action behind the words. Obama doesn't have what it takes to lead this country, he's just trying to co-opt the other candidates momentum. He should sit back and listen for awhile.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

jef — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:57:03 GMT

i think the dems did OK. Though the notion of experience is highly being skewed by the media. 90% of the presidents agenda is set on circumstances and all will make mistakes the question is will they get it right on the critical issues. Bush led us to Iraq, Bill Clinton when presented with the NIE that the Rwanda Genocide was about to happen he did nothing but yet intervened in Bosnia. I think that judgement and passion are key as well.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ryan M. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:57:11 GMT

If it wasn't for George Stephanopolous' loyalty to the Clintons, then he would have really focused on Hillary's awkward moment.... She looked mean. Not a very good challenger.

George, let it go... The Clintons are the past... No one wants to go back to the scandals of the '90's.

Oh, and Hillary played the gender card... HARD...

She basically said, "If for no other reason, then vote for me because I am a woman". WEAK... Barack stayed above the fray... Good for him.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

ME, Santa Ana, Ca — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:58:17 GMT

As long as Clinton tries to represent herself as the "change" candidate, no one will believe her. She should stick with the experience line and hope no one remembers that along with the good experiences came bitter acrimony with one half of the country.

The phrase "dynasty" and "Clinton fatigue" have been showing up more and more. People just don't want a dynasty or Bush/Clinton/Bush/Clinton. They want a chance to put aside the divisiveness of the past two administrations. Obama or Edwards represent that chance. Clinton just does not.

Many believe we are at a crossroads and do not have the time to squander on fighting old battles from the 90's. We need to move on global warming and our global standing. We need to move on repairing our economy and our military. Mostly we need to repair the division in the political landscape.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

andrew — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:59:23 GMT

Where is Keith Olbermann when we need him?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ron, TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:59:25 GMT

Obama held his ground, and Edwards landed a zinger on Clinton with that status-quo-attacks line. Overall a pretty lackluster debate as far as its effect on poll numbers and perceptions, imo. Anyone else notice Hillary get a bit too angry after Edwards pushed her buttons? Presidents have to be calm and collected...

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kaye,Southport, NC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:59:32 GMT

Once again, Obama seems to float above the fighting in the "pit". Is it just me, or is it because he is always looking above and beyond to the BIG PICTURE?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sebastion, Nashua, NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:59:34 GMT

Chuck, you're so wrong. Look the people who hate Clinton will hate it when she raises her voice and defends herself. But this is not Iowa! Her defense was presidential in my opinion. I'm a voter and I didn't know who I was going to support. Now, I'm in her corner. I didn't realize the change she has helped create. I like Obama in eight years or as her VP just not prez, not now.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

vk, Durham, NC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 03:59:43 GMT

I liked the debate more than the others, it was very substantive. I am so put off by Hillary Clinton's attacks on Obama, though. I am not sure what the real benefit of that is (other than scoring cheap political points). I would have preferred had she told us what were the bills Obama voted for that she DISAGREED with so that I would know better how she is different. I liked the way Edwards and Obama were able to contrast from each other. She just came across as wanting to be mean.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Dan, TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:01:06 GMT

Edwards did best, Obama second, Clinton third, then Richardson.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

stephen,Pace Florida — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:01:32 GMT

Do you think Edwards would go for being the running mate to Obama

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Will Gainesville, FL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:02:54 GMT

Wow! Senator Obama really shined in this debate. He was articulate and he defended himself well against the malicious attack-machine that is Hillary Clinton. Edwards also did well....and Richardson was funny. Overall, I think this debate helped solidify Obama's lead and will cause a bump for Richardson and Edwards and a drop for Clinton. Just my thoughts.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Dave, Menlo Park, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:03:05 GMT

I thought this was Hillary's best debate. She was warm and engaging and appeared to know stuff (at least as much as Joe Biden - who will be sorely missed!).

I'm a diehard Obama guy, but I thought Hillary was great being herself. She should really get rid of her senior campaign team if she wants to win this thing.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Alex, Los Angeles, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:04:06 GMT

Clinton looked more prepared and competent and THAT is what this contry needs. RHETORIC will only go so far. I like Obama, but really people, WHAT HAS HE DONE? He's all talk, where is the substance. DONT VOTE BASED ON LIKE....We already had 8 years of that!!!!!!!!!!

I am reminded of a blog I read:

Only in politics is inexperience ever viewed as a selling point. With all due respect for fresh blood, imagine interviewing for any even semi-senior job, confidently informing the boss that you've never done anything like this before; don't have a very high opinion of how it's been done before; don't have many relationships with the people who have been doing it for years and with whom you will be working if you get the job; know, of course, about the big problems you'd face if hired but can't yet say exactly what you'd do about them ...but you're full of hope!

Moreover, the fantasy, like Hollywood love stories that end when the groom kisses the bride, ignores what happens after the election. Let's face it: Even Mr. Smith went to Washington. Once elected, guess whom the perfect paragon of purity, Obama or anyone else, would have to deal with to make good on any of his promises: Washington insiders. And guess what processes he would have to navigate to do so: Washington legislation, regulation, stagnation, ego inflation.
But if you're really bold and really bright and really, really, really well-intentioned, not knowing your way around that stuff can't, like, screw up your presidency, can it?

Ask Jimmy Carter. Ask the Clintons - who were, granted, never anyone's idea of squeaky clean, but did sweep in with more policy-initiative droit de seigneur than savoir-faire and paid heavily for it -- as did anyone who liked that universal-health-care idea. Most of you probably aren't speaking to George W. Bush, but ask someone to ask him whether a little first-hand knowledge of foreign policy mightn't have come in handy.

Third and worst, the rescue fantasy encourages the silly fiction that the main reason that big, serious, long-standing problems don't get solved is because nobody in power really wants to solve them. Nonsense. Of course, there are plenty of lazy and/or stupid and/or corrupt politicians whose main interest is their own advancement while in office, and their own enrichment once out. But there are plenty who aren't like that. And even if you somehow removed all the former, and were left with a political roster comprised solely of genuine visionaries and luminaries, you'd find that, lo and behold, a lot of this stuff is actually hard. It's easy to favor free and fair trade with Africa....until you hear from the American farmer. It's a no-brainer to stand up against pork-barrel spending on outmoded military bases or propping-up flailing industries...unless you represent the people who stand to lose their jobs. It's idiotic not to favor at least some reforms in the Social Security system....until you come up against democracy in action, also known as senior citizens who will not merely clean, but gut, the clock of anyone who threatens to touch a hair on the head of "their" money.
This isn't to suggest that those choices can't be made, or worthy compromises can't be reached. But it ain't easy. And in the course of trying, it just might help to have tried before.

Just as it's always been a mistake to sanctify politicians for never having smoked this or that, I think it's a mistake to glorify politicians for never having done much, well, politicking. I think we should stop searching for redeeming outsiders at least long enough to scan the horizon for a worthy insider: somebody who's tried and failed a few things a few times and been fried for it in the media; who's got some scuffmarks from the legislative process; who's won a few and lost a few and horse-traded enough to know when to hold out for the whole enchilada and when to figure that half a loaf is better than none.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

stephen,Pace Florida — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:04:47 GMT

Do you think Edwards would go for being the running mate to Obama

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Banko — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:04:56 GMT

Good job OBAMA. You're the real Commander-Inchief.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

PollM, Dallas TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:05:31 GMT

New Hampshire Democratic Debate Winner

Who won the ABC Democratic Debate in New Hampshire?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1451

.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Frank, McHenry Il — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:05:41 GMT

Obama did great, as most of them did. But change is more then a "word" its how to lead... We so need a leader, and Obama fit the bill.

The whole world is watching, and one day the whole world will come together again, and Obama will lead the way.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Grace — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:05:45 GMT

Frank Luntz viewer focus group crucified her...she lost everyone in there that was supporting her. Came in with 12-15 left with maybe 2

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ben, Nashville — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:07:23 GMT

If Edwards takes second in NH, it will really transform the race.

Richardson did a great job and he ought to take the "experienced" vote instead of Hillary. He's got experience in spades, and he's highly qualified.

But Obama is still my candidate. Head and shoulders above the rest (and not just because he's tall).

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Caroline, Bethesda, MD — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:08:09 GMT

I agree that Obama looked presidential. His answers were reasoned and thoughtful. He showed the scope of his knowledge of all the issues. He will win Tuesday. The latest Rasmussen poll taken after the Iowa Caucus has Obama winning with 37% to Hillary's 27%. After this debate the gap will only widen - with Hillary really sinking.

Frankly, Hillary was downright scary. She almost - almost - had a Howard Dean meltdown with that hyper, over-the-top response to Edwards when he said she was now losing. Very unsettling. Kind of gives one pause that if a personal critcism like that would get her so rattled, how would she be in face-to-face dealings with foreign leaders if criticized? Not a good night for Hillary.

Edwards had a good night. I think he will come in second, beating out Hillary. I think Richardson could beat her too.

A very good night for Barack Obama!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ed — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:08:11 GMT

I deeply disagree about saying Obama did better than Clinton. I find him confused, difficult to express himself clearly, and often hesitating on his answers. He is a gifted speechreader, but a terrible debater.It needs more qualities to be the United States president.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bill Smith — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:08:53 GMT

Grow up you guys. Barack did not appear Presidential at all. Hillary stood her ground and punched back when attacked by opportunistic Edwards. I give the win to Hillary -- great job girl!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Simon, IA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:09:26 GMT

So to all Obama supporters who have intelligence:

Do you think action is bigger than words?

I can bet most will ignore the question as they will chicken out.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Steve — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:09:58 GMT

This is ridiculous. Lead me to the river, but you better hope I can swim.

People are looking to be inspired. Good, but let's be realistic. I like Obama and if he's the nominee, I will support him. However, Hillary won the debate tonight and should be the nominee. I hope to God the residents of NH are not swayed by the hype. She is the ONE.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

IKE — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:10:02 GMT

HILLARY WAS PISSED, PISSED, PISSED.

THAT WAS A MOMEMT !

NOW WE KNOW SHE WOULD LOSE IT AND EMBARASS AMERICA IF AHMEDINEJAD SAID SOMETHING NEGATIVE TO HER.

WE DON'T NEED A HOT-HEAD AS PRESIDENT. WE NEED A CALM, RESTRAINED PERSON!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bill Smith — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:11:45 GMT

Grow up you guys. Barack did not appear Presidential at all. Hillary stood her ground and punched back when attacked by opportunistic Edwards. I give the win to Hillary -- great job girl!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

G. Gonzalez — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:11:46 GMT

I agree with your posting; Obama won the debate, Edwards defended Obama and passionate about his own message, and Clinton angry. Obama stayed above the fray and responded well to the questions asked of him, and seemed confortable taking on Clinton. Go OBAMA!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Simon, IA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:11:46 GMT

Hillary is going to get hit hard on her "we need to deal in reality" comment.

She basically just stated that those supporting a campaign for change are ignornat and naive. Voters don't like candidates who look down on them.
John, Providence (Sent Saturday, January 05, 2008 10:49 PM)

John , you are ignorant and naive to support Obama on his lobbyist claims. He voted for the energy bill which helped lobbyist. His NH chair is a lobbyist. His ethics reform bill kept a loophole so lobbyist can still work around.

You need a list to prove you are ignorant and naive?

Action speaks louder than words! Obama's actions in Senate speak different from what he says.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

carol palmer — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:12:38 GMT

Hillary C. is a tough, brilliant, yet compasionate person and it all comes out in a forum as this. She is extraordiary and the rest know it. She would be the best against the Republicans and we all know this.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rick,ky — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:13:38 GMT

Hay, Chuck Todd, you would fit in very well @Clinton News Network. That is the problem with the Media, they think it's about them, It's Not about You. It's about AMERICA. All of ya here at 1st read could take lesson's from an Independent minded Political junkie, like Charlie Cook.
Since we're using Boxing anaolgies on 1st read this evening,Barack hardly worked up a Sweat in the tune up to Tuesday.Hillary got a couple jab's in, but was Knocked off her feet, from the Right Cross Bill Richardson hit her with.

here's one for ya Chuck; AMERICA IS DIVORCING THE CLINTON'S & IT'S NOT GONNA BE PRETTY.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mo, Washington D.C — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:14:23 GMT

Very good debate. Obama did look like a man in charge. Hillary needs to handle her emotion. You have to calm your nerves in order to be the leader of the USA. And good point by Obama yes words to inspire.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kim, Pearland,TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:14:31 GMT

Marcia from Gold Canyon - you hit it on the nose. Rhetoric and inspiration is nice but without a solid foundation of experiences to have strategic beliefs going in that oft-times lead to better decisions in crises. I also agree, I'm so sick and tired of people criticizing how angry someone, whether it's Hillary or Edwards, - in my opinion, this shows passion and I enjoy seeing it every now and then. It's not like either of them are mad all the time. In the end, Barack is reminiscent of George Bush...likeable by the mass of his party with minimal experience and look where it got us. Say what you want to say, likeable or not, almost everyone with a logical mind knows that Kerry would have made a better president than Bush. I'll just be glad when we have a new president...I'm so tired of being ridicule about our president when I travel overseas.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

FLBamaman — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:14:34 GMT

Wow,....what a different take I have on the debate. I liked all four...but I must say from the audience the loudest applause went to Clinton. I think that a LOT of women will find the tag team of Edwards and Obama "beating up" Clinton as offensive. And, I think she was MUCH more knowlegable on Foreign Policy than either Edwards or Obama, but not Richardson. And, for me anyway, Obama has yet to convince me he will be able to handle the GOP attacks on his lack of experience, which, unfortunately he did not answer when asked tonight. Having said that, if he or Edwards or Richardson or Clinton win, he or she will get my vote.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Matthew, Rochester, MN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:14:36 GMT

Both Edwards and Richardson supported Obama...interesting. Because he's weaker, or because he's make th a better President?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

nadeem, Canada — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:14:39 GMT

Hillary lost the debate the moment she got angry. We expect it of Edwards and why he continues to languish, but for Hillary to get so angry was a big mistake, when Richardson said, i've seen less hostility in hostage negotiations that just killed it for her.

At the same time i though Richardsons defense of experience was fantastic. Since when has experience become a dirty work. Problem was it was just after Hillary emotional outburst.

Marcia - I happen to sit in boardrooms on a regular basis, and i can tell you coming from a man or a woman a outburst like that does not play well, at that level people respond to reason and information not emotion.

Obama was the perfect executive, calm while being criticized, keeping the debate in the context of facts, rising above the fray. He did look tired though and a debate is not a good format for him. I see him as a better president than a debater. The opposite is true for Hillary and Edwards to much emotion to be calm and collected when the world around them is in chaotic.

The gender card does not play well, if Obama used the race card it would hurt him as well. I am surprised Hillary handlers have not told her that. The constituency that likes that kind of talk - first woman president - is already on her side. Young people don't care, those cultural wars were fought before their time and do not relate to it. Independents don't care either as they tend not to vote on wedge issues like gender or race.

We will see how the NH voters react.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Suzanne Blaylock — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:15:20 GMT

Hillary looked like the shrill angry Senator from New York that she is. Go back to the Senate, Hillary. That's where you belong. We don't want to listen to your partisan shrillness for the next 4 years. America desperately needs someone to help itself heal from the last 7 years.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ken, Jamestown,NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:17:01 GMT

The Dems need to get behind Barack and get back the White House. Edwards for VP. Hillary will be done on Tuesday. Richardson for Sec of State.

He is an inspiring man.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Laurie, pittsfield MA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:17:47 GMT

This debate just brought everything into focus.

Hillary looked and sounded petty and mean spirited and certainly didn't project a presidential image.

My vote belongs to Barack Obama. (And I hope he brings John Edwards into his cabinet as secretary of labor!).

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

G. Gonzalez — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:19:00 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Katie, Chicago, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:19:09 GMT

I think Hillary was incredibly articulate and thoughtful with her answers right from the start. There was detail and depth that none of the other democratic candidates had. Plus the double team of Obama and Edwards was ridiculous and I'm glad that it was pointed out during the second half of the debate. She not only handled herself well, but was able to retaliate against Edwards who tried to make himself seem more important in the Senate than he really was.

These are serious times and just like she said, we need someone who can actually get stuff done instead of just talking about it. Even though she didn't say it, she is for the people and she does listen to what the American people want. I'm sick of hearing that only Obama feels that way. Go Hillary!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Randy Ewart, Columbia, SC. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:19:37 GMT

The Edwards counter attack on Hillary reminds me of the Hunt for Red October with the American sub intercepting the torpedos. This allowed Obama to remain on message - change. Hillary is status quo and she looked angry that she was being deprived of what was rightly hers. McCain-Obama in the general is great for the country!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

PulSamsara — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:19:55 GMT

It looks like Mark Penn instructed Hillary to take out the knives tonight. Three times she tried to elevate the discussion into a shouting match - and three times she was rebuked.

I understand that Hillary is worried... she has good reason to be. But what is it today... the nice Hillary...then the attack dog Hillary... then, as the polls dictate, the sweet sincere Hillary ? Can't this person be genuine and more than poll driven ?

Barack Obama for President of the United States of America.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

jmartinez — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:19:55 GMT

I know the MSM will paint Hillary as "angry" instead of passionate. She couldn't just sit back and let the talkers keep talking. The MSM want Hillary to be unscripted and take a stance, and when she did, they will say she is too hard and aggressive.

I thought Edwards had a good night but don't think his message will go far in NH. Obama looked tired and didn't seem like he had any passion for the issues like Clinton or Edwards.

When will people stop to see what the candidates will do and have done instead of listening only to the rhetoric of hope and change?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bob, DC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:20:00 GMT

Most memorable moment was Hillary losing her cool. I think I saw smoke coming from her ears. Not a pretty site.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Abby — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:20:49 GMT

While Obama has strong speaking skills in the right circumstance, he does not have the experience to fulfill his promise to lead change. Not once in the debate did I hear him explain the changes that he has made while in the senate. Rather, he talks in generalities. As citizens, we deserve specifics from all of the candidates.

My main concern is that we have already had a president who had no experience. Look how he has led this country. Do we really want another person who has to learn while in office?

Persuasive rhetoric that evokes feelings of nostalgia for better times and hope is great. However, if those feelings cannot be translated into action, then they are empty promises.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Erin, Neosho Falls, KS — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:21:08 GMT

Hillary definitely lost her cool and I agree with others that she is trying to say that because she's so great she can make change without the help of the American people.

I'm sorry, but it's going to take a great leader to give the American people the courage to step outside the box to make the dire changes that are needed and quite frankly Hillary just doesn't have what it takes and she can't beat Huckabee.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kaye — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:22:40 GMT

In order to benefit from this debate, Hillary needed 1 of 2 things:
A) Kick butt in the debate
B) Barack had to do poorly
Neither of these things happened, thus continues the downward trend of Hillary's expired campaign

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

ER, Omaha, NE — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:22:44 GMT

Wasn't it Hillary that made some comment about Edwards being so angry all the time? Ironic, when you think about it.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Terre, Sandy, OR — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:22:55 GMT

Obama said at one point that he had never said that Edwards wasn't electable (paraphrasing). The word electable wasn't used, but the implication is clear:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxSUvvkMGp4&feature=related

How about the many times both he, and his wife Michelle, have said that he is not electable because Edwards won't have the funds to compete?

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/01/01/elizabeth-edwards-disappointed-with-michelle-obama/

At one point, Obama said that he would "enlist the people for self government". Exactly what is that supposed to mean?

Edwards was by far, and away, the winner.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

PAOLO PASTORE, LIVERPOOL, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:23:33 GMT

Hillary has spent such a long time defending herself and Bill against the right-wing machine that she become entrenched in the "horizontal" debate. She is either the victim or the attacker. Unfortunately, she will not be able to effectively govern from the middle of the spectrum. if she is elected, it will be the 1990s all over again and nothing meaningful will get done. It is time for Mrs. Clinton to set aside her desire to be president for the good of the country. I don't think we can expect the right-wing to be adult enough to let it go.

HOW ABOUT AN OBAMA/EDWARDS TICKET??

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Alan, Boston — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:24:19 GMT

Edwards did some good for himself, no doubt. That works for Obama, for now. I hope the media shows the real Hillary. She lost it. And the "let's talk reality" (back to earth) type comment, Argghh. She just reminded a lot of us why we are taking a good look at Obama after supporting her. It all depends on the media. If they run those two and comment on it, she is toast!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Dr. Brad Burke, Maricopa, AZ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:24:48 GMT

Finally, a candidate who will sit back and carefully think through a question and then speak in an authentically intelligent way!!! Of course, I'm talking about Obama.

Clinton kept looking up and to the right, meaning she was searching for the "right" answer (what will hit the right voter buttons). Obama really seemed to want to answer the questions honestly rather than rely on handler-fed rhetoric. It's about time for a President who thinks things through before jumping to old partisan lines.

I thought Edwards did exceptionally well, but looked more like a perfect VP for Obama.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sally Henry Port Washington, New York — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:25:23 GMT

Hilary Won. Obama looked like he had the flu. No energy--no specific actions-- very general words. Boring..... Since the people of New Hampshire are very well educated I'm assuming they will see through his general words and figure out that he talks a good game--but has not delivered. What is his previous experience besides appearing on Oprah's show-- running a soup kitchen for churches in South Chicago. He has such limited experience--it's very sad that so many people in Iowa(many with questionable residency for the Iowa caucus) fell for the celebrity show. Hilary showed that she has a command of issues and has sound judgement. Hopefully, the people of New Hampshire will see her sound judgement and common sense and vote for her. Obama is a great orator--however, not tonight. A great orator does not make a great leader. I fear for this country if someone who is so poorly prepared to be president is elected. Hilary Clinton was the only candidate to bring up the economy and the possibility of recession -- including what needs to be done. Obama sat there like a lump. He does not have original ideas-- nor the executive experience to lead this country.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

osvelia deeds — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:25:48 GMT

hrc defends herself and everyone puts a negative spin on it. edwards is perpetually angry...hrc displays a momentary flash of anger...and gets slammed for it. the usual double-standard against women/hrc. barak...we're in trouble if people fall for his pretty talk and elect him as the condidate...hrc was right about bush being the best guy everyone wanted to have a beer with...no analysis from anyone there at the irony of what barak is now offering in much the same way....substance...only hrc has it among all the candidates with the exception of bill richardson.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Anonymous, Belvidere, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:26:13 GMT

Edwards sealed it for me tonight-- I'm voting for Obama. His defense of Obama against Clinton was a political suicide: he helped destroy Clinton but only solidified Obama as the anti-Clinton.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John smart, Los angeles, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:27:17 GMT

What odd comments. i thought hillary clearly won.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

t, nj — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:27:26 GMT

Typical clintonian machine and talking points. Just adding in some anger. Nice how she played the gender card too. Obama is above the frey and deserves the nomination.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Robert Williams, Califon, NJ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:27:27 GMT

Edwards -- was pretty good, although he's still mad about spending his "hard-earned" "ambulance-catcher" legal fees on a lost effort in Iowa.
Richardson -- still bucking to be a secondary figure in a Democratic administration -- pretty much a "one-note Johnny" about getting the troops out of Iraq.
Clinton -- "35 years of change" -- but still nothing to show for it -- did anybody pick up on the "10 years ago WE tried" to launch a strike against Bin Laden -- didn't mention the aspirin factory, however.
Obama -- gave good and specific answers -- came across as one who really could inspire the American public and lead a coaltion government of democrats, republicans and independents -- the winner of the debate in my view.
(By the way, I'm an independent who is fiscally conservative and socially moderate --- and, in the past, more of a Republican than Democratic voter.)

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

charles — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:27:29 GMT

I really liked the "angry" Hilary tone when she critizised the naive and false hope/change attitude to Obama and Edwards. As newsweek calls it; "Inside Obama’s Dream Machine".
its like alice in wonderland meets the hard cold reality of politics and problems that we face today.

Flipp flopper, dreamer...i cant wait to se the republican machine take on Obama in an election...

sure way to get an republican president

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Wyatt — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:27:33 GMT

Chuck Todd you Chris Matthews are couple suck ups you help lead the media against Edwards and I sick both your like craps. You Clinton supporters, Obama supporters need stop living dream on whom's got the most Experience neither of your Candidates have got more than Edwards nor have better Change then John Edward. John Edwards did the best he out lasted both of them.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rick A — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:28:19 GMT

Marcia from AZ has it right. People want the women to sit back and take what comes and not defend herself. obama sounds like a cheerleader with no substance. he'd get creamed in November. Go hillary.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rob, Mineola, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:28:31 GMT

I'm not sure whether Barack Obama or John Edwards won tonight's debate, but Hillary Clinton definitely LOST it. She made the huge mistake of losing her temper and allowing herself to show her anger when Edwards accused her of representing the status quo. She didn't look "presidential" at all. That clip is going to be replayed over and over by the news stations. I don't think that Hillary can recover from this.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Michael Smith, Lynchburg VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:29:17 GMT

Hillary repeats her "35 years of delivering change" like a mantra, but it simply won't resonate. For one thing, for 16 of those years she was a spouse of an executive. And while she was "First Lady" (isn't this a ridiculous term?) her one specifed responsibility for policy--health care--was a signal failure. For two years she labored and produced a program so horrifically complicated that even her policy wonks couldn't parse it, and it ended up DOA. Arguably that failure helped to lose the Democratic majority in Congress--a point subtly alluded to by Obama when he noted later that "Bill Clinton ended deficits" but did not deliver a workable majority for change.
To me, Hillary seemed peevish and defensive; Obama unruffled and, as other have noted, above the fray. In debating point terms, he may "lose" because he doesn't go tit for tat on every little attack of hers (though he did nicely point out the that "AP report" that Hillary cited about him was actually a quote from a Clinton aide!).
But he understands that voters are not high school debate coaches, totting up points: he tries to project vision, judgment, and leadership. On these criteria, he had a very successful night.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mary, Albany,NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:29:23 GMT

Edwards was the best. He looked and sounded crisp. He can win! We must nominate who can win this time Barack is too shaky in debates. He needs to be more consise. Hillary was really taken back by the Edwards status-quo comment. I think it blew her strategy and she didn't gain any ground as a result. Sensing an Obama/ Edwards alliance that may have pre-existed and is now coming to light. Hmm

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

CARL,CHICAGO,IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:30:13 GMT

Hillary Clinton did the best today compare to other candidates.best of luck.keep it up.
obama-edward cocus were totally against clinton.But clinton fights back.
GREAT NIGHT FOR SEN.HILLARY CLINTON.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Gort, Boston, MA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:30:29 GMT

Edwards really struck a cord with the whole "no special interest groups" and parents "worked in a mill" theme. I bought it as sincere. Clinton was disappointing. Now she is a change agent? I'm starting to think she has too much baggage to be electable. I like that Obama is articulate, thoughtful and poised. The Republicans will have trouble campaigning against him.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Chris, Portland, Oregon — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:31:22 GMT

Amazing how small and petty some of you are about the fact that Hillary was passionate during this debate.
Likie Hill said, remeber when we last voted for someone who tried to sell us the "uniter not a divider" bs line?

Hillary stood out head and shoulders above the rest. Too bad the Obama-loving media will probably crucify her by playing 5 secinds of passion, just like they did Howard Dean. For shame!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jasmine, Long Island, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:31:23 GMT

I sat there watching and wanting to know why everyone is so behind Obama and after watching I still can't figure it out. He dances around the questions and gives no real answer. Not only did Hillary answer the questions, but she delved deeper into the topic. Her answers were well thought out and she genuinely seems to know what she needs to do to get things accomplished. I find her to be a very intelligent and strong woman.

When she stood up for herself in what most of you described as an outburst I clapped for her. Good for her!

She made the greatest point of the night. Obama and Edwards talk a good game, but can they deliver? Clinton can and already has. She has my vote!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

James — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:31:28 GMT

Experience!? Look at Rumseld and Cheney and Bush the former head of state. Let's look at not so far history: JFK and Clinton was governor of Arkansas, need I say more? He was a great president, I even like Hillary, she is just not the best at this time. Hillary for 2016, I actually will support that. We are all tired of Bush and Clintons. If she clinches this one, I will vote for any republican minus Huckabee. She only gets my vote if Huckabee wins. Never mind, Bloomberg would jump in and who knows then Bloomberg/Obama, that would history, a third party winning.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Viki, Portland, Oregon — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:31:46 GMT

Totally agree with Marcia, Gold Canyon, AZ – Hillary was great!
Barak is only repeating the same meaningless slogan –I will bring change!
There is no depth in his words. I don’t rust Obama.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

David, Boston, MA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:31:53 GMT

Three men gang up on a woman, and when she fights back, she's a shrew.

WAY too many jock sniffers posting here . . . .

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Wordy Guy, Greenville Wisconsin — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:32:13 GMT

Hillary was the star of the evening. Substance, style, wit and self-effacement. At one point in the debate, Obama claimed that some website he helped create which showed what lobbyists donated to whose campaign "changed the lives of ordinary people." We all nearly fell off the couch laughing.

People are falling for this fluff?

Hillary was great when she got tight with Edwards. A guy does it and he's forceful. A woman does it and she's shrill. Huge double standard, people.

If you want a change agent with a proven record of implementing change, Hillary Clinton is that agent.

You want slogans and fluff from a Kumbiyah Candidate, pick Obama.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rick A — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:32:34 GMT

Hillary took it to them. Edwards showed his hand, gang on Hillary. he'll pay for that. Obama sounds like a cheerleader and a preacher. For that I'll go to a football game and then to church.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Albert Monger — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:32:37 GMT

Interesting comments. From a neutral observer: it would appear that Obama won this debate.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ghanja, Alanta GA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:33:10 GMT

It seems like the Clinton campaign has begun the angry black man vs poor white woman with the "That hurts me" comment...I have never seen her act that girly...anyhow Obama saw that and said albeit a smart remark back...then the ABC anchors say that was small of him ( the angry black Obama) I really thought race wasnt going to matter boy was I naive...

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Shawn, Cincinnati, OH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:34:05 GMT

You peole are idiots. I am a strong republican and I can't stand Hillary but she was the clear winner. Obama said nothing the whole night. He stammered and his words had no substance. Hillary articulated her experience well and all obama could say was change change change. At least you all could be honest with yourselves.

Huckabee 08

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rocky V — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:34:23 GMT

I see a big double standard here in the article as well as the comments - when a man like Edwards attacks then it is "very impressive and forceful defence" and when
a woman like Hillary does it she is looking "shrill and angry" etc.

I thought that Edwards was the least impressive, basically recycling his stump speech no matter what the question. Barack looked tired and a little shaky on one or two questions - especially the Pakistan one. Richardson was substantive but long winded at times; he did repeat his executive experience line a lot (some of which he owes to the Clinton administration). Hillary made some good contrasts between doers and talkers - after six years in senate and no accomplishment to speak of for Mr. Edwards. She did let slip an opportunity to answer the tax increase on wealthy question more substantively.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ryan M. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:34:41 GMT

Hillary is DESPERATE! She resorted to the gender card.... And, threw a temper tantrum in the face of Edwards suggestion that she is status quo.... She played right into his hands...

The moment reminded me of Dean's concession speech... His rant was excess for what the moment called for... At first glance, it seemed only awkward... but as it repeated, it became the most ridiculous clip of the season...

I'm not saying Hillary's angry retort is quite to Dean's rant, but it came awfully close... As far as her logic, in what she said, I'd say it was worse. To suggest that hope for lofty goals is not realistic, is as if she told my kids that there is no such thing as Santa Claus... Even if that is true, don't spoil it for my kids... If you don't believe you are going to go 100 miles, then you won't even make it halfway. That's the essense of hope....

What she said in response demonstrates that Hillary doesn't understand "Change" or "hope"... Change is inclusive... She's still saying "I" way too much... Hope is about believing... You need both to change.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

DeeW — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:34:57 GMT

"Edwards and Richardson are now distractions and are complicating her ability to go after Obama;"

Always minimizing John Edwards, Chuck, John Edwards and his message is a force in this race, and deserves more respect and consideration than you seem to be able to give him. An honest, intellegent, and dedicated candidate and you imply he is just in the way, I say, status quo Hillary is just in the way.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

ER, Omaha, NE — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:35:00 GMT

She gets angry, uses the gender card, talks about 35 years of experience (which I assume she is including 8 years of first lady). Seriously, did she say people needed a reality check? That words don't inspire? She needs a reality check.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Stephen Kemp — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:35:14 GMT

If I were advising Obama, I'd reassure him that Hillary has already lost; she just doesn't know it yet. But I'd caution him to be nice and respectful because it never pays to alienate potential voters and many Democrats with little or no education as well as women over the age of 50 think well of her.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

kenshin — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:35:25 GMT

edwards was the best. yes, i am cheerleading him of course, but he did not let us down. he showed the most focus, the most energy, and the most conviction.

sorry, hillary, but the $100 million that the health insurance et al lobbyists spent fighting health care last time tell me you need to get out from under their leash. the $5.1 million lobbyists spent last congress means edwards is right, and you only serve to prove his point further by denying it.

we need edwards for president. i live just outside dc, and trust me, the lobbyists own the place. it's either money, or votes. we must use our votes, go to johnedwards.com, check him out, and show your support!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tae Kwon — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:36:45 GMT

Hillary came out with her fangs and claws bared and then tried to soften things with that terrible laugh. She showed her true colors when her guard was down - legendary temper was on full display. Her spin doctors are already choking on how to spin this. Barack did more than fine and his performance will certainly propel him further in the polls and will garner him votes on Tuesday.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Chris, Nashua, NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:38:04 GMT

I just can't believe that the Clinton camp still don't get it! Well, lets show them what we mean again on tuesday. Fired up...Ready to go. Obama 08.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sarah, Batimore, MD — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:39:50 GMT

Wake up guys. Obama reminded me of 2000 election campaign when the current talked about Change in Washington. You all know the rest of the story. For some reasons, I don't know why you all get offended when Sen. Clinton tried to explain the flip flop of Obama especially with his changing positions past and present. Patriot act etc.

Listen guys, I like Obama but the point is you all try to make it a choice of change over experience. I think both are important. I also think, with the way things are going, voting for Sen. Obama may be the best gift for the Republican party.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Lee, Cooper City, FL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:40:56 GMT

Clinton has the most foreign policy experience. She is light years ahead of Obama. She also has more experience with health care and other domestic issues. Edwards and Richardson are ok, but Clinton is the most seasoned and the most qualified candidate. She is "The ONE"!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

dan des moines, iowa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:41:59 GMT

Why is it that most voters acknowledge that Richardson is the most experienced and tested candidate but then they say they support one of the others? I also believe Richardson scares the Republicans the most.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bill — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:42:12 GMT

I didn't mind Hillary's reaction to the Edwards attack. In fact, it humanized her a bit. But Obama won the debate, with Edwards a close second. They seemed to be (unintentionally, I think) positioning themselves as running mates. This would be a great ticket--with Obama as president, of course.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

David, Boston, MA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:42:49 GMT

So Stephanopolous is a racist for calling a churlish remark churlish? I'd say the racist is the David Copperfield wannabe who started talking about "the angry black Obama." (People who create things out of whole cloth generally vote GOP.)

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ralph Duffy, Seattle , WA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:43:30 GMT

From the above, it appears that we have many female Mrs. Bill Clinton fans signing in with male names.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mark S, Fairfax, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:43:57 GMT

Hillary's whole "35 years" mantra is pretty tired and pretty dishonest. Edwards has a year less experience in elected office than her, and Obama has four more years in elected office than her. She is not worthy to be compared to Richardson in terms of experience (actually, Richardson has more experience in public service than all the other three combined). Obama actually won elected office in '96 - four years before Hillary. And, for her to just co-opt the time she spent as a first lady of a state or the nation as legislative or executive (line management) experience is downright dishonest. No one believes that - don't they get that?

The experience argument doesn't wash for her, so we are essentially left with who would be more effective at building good teams and cross the divides and bridge the gaps on issues. Hillary has nothing on Obama there.

Her message is hollow and not credible, and people are not stupid. I love our ability as a nation to get on outlets like this and talk about these things - there was a time a generation ago when we had not the opportunity to read anything other than what the major new outlets carefully vetted for our viewing. Great tool for democracy, and media like these will bring out falsehoods and bring down the hollow Clinton shell. There is no "there" there and it has not taken much "vetting" by WeThePeople to see that.

Prediction for NH: People have enough doubt about Clinton to take the chance on Obama, and he beats Clinton by 8% on Tuesday. It will be viewed as a crushing blow to the Clinton campaign, who even then will not "change" their tactics. They themselves will prove to us in SC and MI and others leading up to Super Tuesday that there is no "there" there.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

dan des moines, iowa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:44:17 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

mike, smackover arkansas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:44:25 GMT

the "reality" is Hillary is unelectable. and it's time for everyone to get on that bus, and time for the Clintons to realize this is not a reputiation of his presidency , we just don't like her.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John, Columbia, MD — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:44:39 GMT

Americans, don't get so emotional about this. We have gone through this path before. Read the facts yourself. Do your home work. Don't be brainwashed by "Change" versus "Experience". Both matters as far as I am concerned.

Besides, IO & NH are only 2 states out of 50. Don't be fooled by just the talk. I hope we can all learn from history.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

YoungDemocrat — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:44:52 GMT

While I love Obama....the debates usually aren't his strong point. The "lightening round" settings don't benefit him because, instead of using lots of prescripted lines, he usually reasons and you can see the wheels turning in his head. This format was better for him, because he had time for his responses.

My take away was that either Edwards or Obama won....and Hillary lost for going insane a couple of times

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ryan M. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:45:01 GMT

As an Independent... I send this warning to the Democrats....

Hillary would be beaten in the General, if she were somehow nominated. Her only hope is to go extremely negative, thus embracing divisive politics, and hope that John McCain somehow wins the nod from the Republican side. Although, I somewhat like McCain, I am certain that he would not have the endurance to do a national General election campaign...

Obama is currently my personal pick.. I thought Edwards probably won this debate, though. And, I'd like to see how Richardson fares going forward... Those three candidates have the potential to unite the country... Hillary just does not.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jerry, Harrisburg, PA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:45:05 GMT

Edwards may have earned a spot as Secr. of Labor in the Obama Administration (Maybe Supreme Court if a spot opens). Maybe that was Edwards backup plan all along!
Go Obama-Biden?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kim, Pearland,TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:46:25 GMT

Nadeem - You are indeed lucky to not have witness "un-cool" heads in the board meetings that you have participated in. I have experienced quite the opposite - let the conversation turn in the direction of one of two attendees proposing something high risk that would immediately impact THEM and all hell breaks out and I mean HELL inside the boardroom and outside.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Randy Ewart, Columbia, SC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:46:51 GMT

Hillary promotes change using her experience being entrenched. What's next, promoting diets that allow you to eat everything and gain nothing?

Shawn, the Publican from Cincy, I guess the lack of substance from the gang of white Anglo males led you to this thread.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

PulSamsara — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:47:43 GMT

So did Mark Penn instruct Hillary to fly off the handle tonight ?

What's with that strategy ?

I understand that she had to stir it up to confront Obama's momentum .... but she just came off as Angry and Confrontational.

wow ? Get some rest Hillary.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

stacey, Mn — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:48:33 GMT

Hillary blew her chances of a rebound in NH, she lost her temper very early and lost message. Barack had the first half of the debate locked, he was great in making policy statements, second half belonged to John, he got a moment and ran with it.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Beth, New York — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:48:54 GMT

I could support any one of the Democratic candidates for president, but I don't understand the Obama cult. I like the guy, I've looked at his record, but I too am skeptical of the "hope" bit. It's just not that easy. I think Edwards and Clinton have a better idea of how to acheive change. I actually thought Hillary looked fantastic in this debate, which truly surprised me. I am under 30, but come on, experience does matter to some extent. I'll support any one of these candidates-- I just think it's dangerous to subscribe so strongly to the cult of personality (like OR hate) that you ignore the details. Isn't that JUST what happened with Bush-- who also ran on "change"? Hillary had a great point in strongly redirecting people to her, and others', records. As voters, we need to research what evidence there is that these people actually can enact "change". I actually think HRC came out ahead of Obama on this debate, and Edwards made a good showing too.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

JP, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:49:24 GMT

Hey Simaon IA, can you tell us what Clinton has done besides being first lady?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John, NYC, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:49:49 GMT

Hey John from Providence,

You're right, voters don't like to be called IGNORNAT... but sometimes it's true... I mean, certain people can't even spell/type properly... :-/

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Garfield, Rochester — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:51:00 GMT

The highlight of the debate was that "Hillary lost her cool".
Edwards pushed her buttons and was passionate. He won the debate.
Barack was a little tired but did enough.
Bad night for Hillary.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jeff, Chicago Suburbs — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:51:33 GMT

I am a Republican, but was very impressed by all the Democratic candidates. My thoughts:
1. Edwards. I used to think he was a phony, now I'm not so sure.
2. Clinton. I dislike Hillary Clinton, but I think she did a great job in this debate.
3. Obama. I like Obama, and he didn't do anything wrong in this debate, but I like him better when he's not playing the role of frontrunner. Edwards brought the passion and emotion from his stump speech to the debate - Obama did not.
4. Richardson. Uhhh, yeah....

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

JoeCHI, Chicago, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:51:43 GMT

Clinton made a cogent and effective argument of how change is not possible without experience.

Further, she showed both strength and humor.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kim, San Diego, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:52:37 GMT

stephen,Pace Florida, I agree with you, I think Obama Edwards ticket would be great. These qualities will move our country forward.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Chris, Portland, Oregon — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:53:54 GMT

Plain and simple Dems - We win, or lose, with Hillary.
Anyone else will be chewed up and spit out by the GOP. She sure showed them boys up tonight!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

SylviaR — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:53:57 GMT

"The Edwards counter attack on Hillary reminds me of the Hunt for Red October with the American sub intercepting the torpedos. "

Way to go, Dallas!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tom J — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:55:23 GMT

I am a republican and have never considered voting for a dem until Obama. I feel inspired by him. I, and most republicans (not to mention dems and independents), would see Hillary as more of the same bickering, partisan politics we have suffered through for the past 15 plus years. I cannot imagine a Hillary white house as being anything but divisive. I truly believe Obama provides the greatest hope for us to come together to make America the greatest country it can be.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

David Flannery. Nashua, NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:56:06 GMT

Watching as a Nashua, NH Democrat, my vote for Hillary Clinton was only solidified tonight. It was solid throughout until Iowa. I suppose, like many, I began to question myself for the last couple of days for supporting her at a time when a new wave might be coming through town - the wave of Obama. Would I be on the wrong side of history if I vote for Hillary? Would I missing something if I didn't vote for Obama (whom I do like and would support in the general along with Edwards)? Tonight I saw Clinton as defending herself as she should be doing. Therefore, the answer is 'no' - I won't be missing anything if I cast my vote for her. When I vote for Hillary on Tuesday, I DO get EXPERIENCE and someone who has fought for change and someone with a litany of accomplishments. She is an incredible woman who knows when you get to Washington, you have to work with everyone. It's easy to forget that when you get swept away by the inspirational speeches of Obama. How many of O'Bama's promises or Edward's promises will be broken or excused away after the first 100 days? As irony has it, Hillary is actually the most authentic candidate who wont' have to back peddle because she couldnt jam her agenda down the establishment's throat--something no one will be able to do. That's not cynical or devoid of hope - that's reality. Yes, its time for a reality break. Those of you who are superficial can keep going on and on about her voice, clothes, expressions...the rest of us who are HOPEFUL that her EXPERIENCE will turn 7 years of Bush around - can rest tonight knowing our choice for President isnt' going to sit there and take it, but begin to call into question - RIGHTFULLY - the records of her opposition.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sittin Bull, Texas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:56:55 GMT

Hillary won this debate hands down and you know it. She made these boys look like the whining boys they are. Angry! You damn right. I want that in my president.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Lois, Pittsburgh — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:58:02 GMT

I disagree about saying Obama did better than Hillary. I find him confused, difficult to express himself clearly, and often hesitating on his answers. At times you would think...what did he say?

Hillary's answers were clear and precise. She also showed her willingness to fight showing how strong she is.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Craig, Conway NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:58:04 GMT

We all just witnessed Hillary Clintons Howard Dean "Scream" moment. Edwards won the debate, Richardson was good and showed he is a smart man but not presidential. Obama was vanilla, made no mistakes but also no homeruns. I would like to see an Obama/Edwards ticket with Edwards as VP

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

James Belanger — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:58:14 GMT

The fundamental issue that Hillary Clinton misses is that although she may have much more political experience than Barack Obama in Washington is that she cannot unite this country. Many of her policies are very similar to Barack Obama's. However, he is the only candidate running who can build the super-majority that is needed right now.

Obama is right.... Right now, words and inspiration are more desperately needed right now than Washington experience. Obama is bringing ALL Americans back into government. Clinton supporters do not recognize this and simply want a repeat of the same divisive politics of the 90s.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Valerie, Chicago — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:58:20 GMT

Obama had a great night. He was cool, calm, and collected. He'll easily win the NH Primary on Tuesday. Edwards was passionate - think his performance will propel him to a 2nd place finish in NH. Richardson was quite impressive too. I think he'll come in third.

Hillary completely lost her composure when she was reminded by Edwards that she was no longer the frontrunner. Kind of unsettling to think she could lose her cool so easily. Not very "presidential." Not very reassuring that she would remain in control of her emotions if challenged.

**ONE INTERESTING HISTORICAL TIDBIT** - Read on another thread that the Democratic Iowa Caucus Winner in every contested Iowa Caucus since 1976 has produced the eventual Democratic Nominee!(except one time in 1988 when Dick Gephardt won Iowa, but didn't get the nomination.) Every other Democratic winner in a contested Iowa Caucus - from 1976 through 2004 - went on to be the Democratic Nominee! Looks like the odds are in Barack Obama's favor!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Gary Bala, Havertown, PA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:58:24 GMT

I'm an Obama supporter, but I didn't think that Obama did as well as he could have or as well as some others seem to think he did. His responses to Hillary seemed too programed, and just taken from his stump speeches. He should have more pointedly addressed the thrust of her point - I delivered real change for 35 years with my experience.

The answer is: if those masters of the status quo and entrenched powers have been delivering change on real issues for 35 years, why are we all still taking about the same problems we had in the 90s, such as energy security, health care and global peace?

Answer: the problems never really got solved by a broken Washington government.

Change can only come from a bringing together people into a coalition of change for solving future problems, and Obama is the best man to forge and inspire that coalition of Democrats, independents, former non-voters and crossover Republicans.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

banko — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 04:59:38 GMT

Who won debate?

News: Undecided Voters in New Hampshire

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Apv5KWHgXTE

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M Paulette Richmond, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:00:27 GMT

Hillary Clinton's continual boast that she has been an "agent for change for 35 years" was not substantiated by examples... and would she have served as that "agent of change" in Arkansas if her husband had not been governor? Personally I would like to know of her activities *35* years ago that were exclusive of promoting the Clinton(s) political ambitions? What did she do - herself- that was without an ulterior political agaenda?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

AK — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:01:45 GMT

I think Edward strategy will work and he will be eventual president. I don't know what the rest of people are think or so dumb. Obama is not electable in any sense. He looks so arrogant, tired and ignorant there.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Marcenel, Fl — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:02:16 GMT

Great Job Obama!!!! you have my vote ,, for sure

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sharran, Virginia Beach, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:02:36 GMT

I like Obama and I love his message, but I think experience does matter. This country elected Bush because he was such a people person, and we can not afford to make that same mistake. I don't know any one who has gone on a job interview and said I have very little experience, but I beleive that I am the best person for this job.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M. Davis, New Hampshire — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:03:17 GMT

The Obama-Edwards alliance was exposed tonight. Hillary had every right to stand up for herlsef and the American people. Obama and Edwards think they have already won the nomination. Reality check guys, today is Jan. 5, 2008. Obama and edwards must be reeling tonight, knowing they got their butts kicked in the debate by a woman. Clinton was full of passion, hit Obama hard on the issues and his lack of a record. For Edwards to implay that Hillary Clinton is the status quo was silly. Hillary Clinton being called the status quo, is like Obama being called an experienced statesman. Both couldn't be further from the truth. LOL! This is a long campaign. Clearly, it appears that many of the Obama supporters think he has already won the nomination. Iowa and New Hampshire are two pieces of a big puzzle. Stay tuned for Florida and Super Tuesday.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Christine Flint — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:03:33 GMT

It seems important in this race that the candidates for the Democratic slot insist that Clinton define her "30 years of experience." I have to assume that most of those years are those where she was married to Bill Clinton..........does that really count as experience!?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Beelzebubba, Dallas, Tx — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:03:44 GMT

Hillary did a good job. She projected her knowledge of the issues and proved she's no push over. I have no doubt she would be a vast improvement over our current president. But having said that who among the democrats wouldn't be? When Hillary raises her voice she becomes shrill. Is she scrappy? Yes, but annoying. She could learn a lot from Fred Thompson. He's capable of winning an argument with a simple dismissive shrug. When Hillary learns to rise above her need to outsmart or outyell her opponents and simply project her superiority she will be able to close the deal.

Meanwhile I think Obama's ace is his ability to inspire people. That's a lot of power and can create change as much as or more than all of the technical know how Richardson will ever muster.

And, finally, Edwards will forever come off as a litigator arguing before a jury. He's good at it and he convinces me, but he's boxed himself into a one-dimensional fight and doesn't appear as though he would have much time to deal with the 500,000 other problems on the agenda and seems most likely to be the one that would be caught off guard when something outside of his script actually happened.

I'd like to see the nominee picked sooner rather than later and then watch the unified effort to take on a still very powerful republican machine. Obama's the one, I believe.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M. Davis, New Hampshire — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:03:54 GMT

The Obama-Edwards alliance was exposed tonight. Hillary had every right to stand up for herlsef and the American people. Obama and Edwards think they have already won the nomination. Reality check guys, today is Jan. 5, 2008. Obama and Edwards must be reeling tonight, knowing they got their butts kicked in the debate by a woman. Clinton was full of passion, hit Obama hard on the issues and his lack of a record. For Edwards to implay that Hillary Clinton is the status quo was silly. Hillary Clinton being called the status quo, is like Obama being called an experienced statesman. Both couldn't be further from the truth. LOL! This is a long campaign. Clearly, it appears that many of the Obama supporters think he has already won the nomination. Iowa and New Hampshire are two pieces of a big puzzle. Stay tuned for Florida and Super Tuesday.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Randy Ewart, Columbia, SC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:04:12 GMT

In the Lord of the Rings, there is a scene where the old hobbit wants to wear the ring one last time. When he's refused, his face suddenly morphs into this scary, demonic look. Hillary's temper tantrum reminds me of that scary scene. (I won't be able to sleep tonight)

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Emma Drake, AZ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:04:14 GMT

Hillary Clinton isn't particularly likable. I sympathize with her supporters should they resent the fact, but it is, nevertheless, a fact and it greatly diminishes her chances of winning if she were the Democratic nominee.

It has nothing to do with her being a woman by the way. Nor does it have anything to do with her being somewhat older or her "looks" or anything else along those lines.

Janet Napolitano is older and wouldn't win any beauty contests, but she's by far the most talented and accomplished politician in the Democratic party, now in her second term as AZ governor with approval ratings consistently above 75% in a traditionally conservative state.

By way of contrast, Hillary Clinton has quite limited political skills, a very thin resume, sky high negatives and enough baggage to single-handedly sink the Titanic without any help from an iceberg.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Drew, IA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:04:37 GMT

Bill Richardson is perhaps more uniquely qualified to lead us as President than any of the Dem candidates, but tonight he was reduced to being playground monitor, the only adult in the company of 3 sniping children. Obama and Clinton reminded me of my niece and nephew on a long car trip, when one of us grownups would have to squeeze in the back seat between them to keep them from endlessly nitpicking at each other. "Presidential?" Hardly.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

JG, Austin, TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:05:38 GMT

People keep saying Obama has no substance. He has clearly outlined policies and plans on his website.
How can one explain the details of issues in a format like a debate? Those of you who say, Obama has no substance are repeating a superficial and unsubstantive comment. Do some research...From my perspective, Obama is making the point that no change is possible unless there is a return to an America that has a common purpose and that purpose is to honor democracy by working for all the people in this country. He also has a global world view rather than an empirical one. He can see the big issues and direct a path toward them rather than reacting to issues and ignoring the larger goal. He is unique.
He is John F. Kennedy like. Although I admire Hilary's
public service, she is the spouse of Bill Clinton.
She was not the President; she did not make policy decisions (that we know of). Obama has a bigger plan.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jared Paredes, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:06:04 GMT

why is it that the only experience accepted is in government? there's plenty of ways to lead outside of office. he had a lot of experience organizing stuff in chicago. look at kennedy, by the same standards, he didnt have much experience when he became president, but he still did a great job in the time period he was in, especially with cuba.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Adam, New York — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:06:11 GMT

Bad bad night for hillary. Her angry, defensive reaction to Edwards will be played over and over. She lost her cool, and it was borderline frightening. I'm only surprised that the other candidates didn't challenge her bogus claims of '35 years of experience." umm, doing what? 20 years as a governer's wife in arkansas, 8 years as a polarizing first lady, and then a fairly undistinguished term as a senator. i'm not sure this puts her in front of obama in the experience department.
all in all, a good night for her opponents.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Joe, Hammonton, NJ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:09:01 GMT

Hillary is ready to be President. Edwards was never ready for prime-time. Obama is just a good-looking guy who talks a good game. Its what happens the day after the election is what matters. Obama is the Democratic Dubya.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

James Independence, MO — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:09:08 GMT

How obvious was it? Hil came across as a cold uncaring person, more intent on making herself look "experienced". Did we hear people want change? I guess so.......Hillary clearly is the status quo. Edwards hit hard with his fire in the gut talk and pointed out the obvious............Hillary can't take it when she is behind. Obama did well....reminicient of JFK whose name he invoked two or three times. Obama Edwards ticket? Not too far off the mark. I bet that is the way it goes down.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

pauliedoc, syracuse — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:11:14 GMT

Republicans posting about Hillary winning. That is a laugh. They are foaming at the mouth to dust off their CLinton playbook.

Obama is right. This is not about what he will pull off single-handedly, but what he can inspire us to do as a country. This is not a race for class president. Being the leader of the free world is not about policy wonkery, it is about leading. We need vibrancy and yes, we need inspirational rhetoric. That is what the "bully pulpit" is all about. Words can DO alot, for good or bad. The last 7 years are proof of that....

Finally, we don't have to choose the lesser of 2 evils. Obama '08!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jon, PA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:12:16 GMT

I don't understand the people who no matter what happens in the actual debate they will stand up and say their candidate won hands down. To me Obama looked distracted, his answers were confusing, and all I really heard him say was I have all these great ideas, but I was looking for what comes next. How are you going to do this, how are you going to bring together this grand coalition and unite the country? How are you going to solve healthcare and poverty, education and the economy, the war in Iraq and Social Security? Words are great and inspirational but they don't solve anything. Its time that people watched the debate and looked for what actually happened. I am sick and tired of being a democrat and watching day after day, year after year our leaders hide in the corner as the Republican attack machine comes after us day in and day out. I am tired of being ashamed of being a democrat because we are afraid to stand up and say ENOUGH, I believe in this and you can call me liberal and weak but that is only because you have no serious solution to the real problems facing America. The talk of change and hope are great and maybe they will work, but I am looking for a Democrat who will finally say to the Republicans enough is enough, you can say what you want but I am not going to stop and I am not going to waiver, I am going to stand tall and fight. And while Senator Obama is great and I like his message of hope I don't feel he is ready to do that. Hillary in contrast to me stands to reclaim the Democratic Party of Roosevelt and Kennedy who weren't afraid to do what was right, to stand up and say lets work together to do what is right for a majority of Americans. Obama just doesn't have the experience to do that and the Republican attack machine will simply eat him alive and if he does get elected, Republicans in Congress will work to derail everyone of his initiatives and he will not have the working knowledge of how Washington really works to get anything done. So in the end I am looking for more, you want to do all of this then tell me how? Tell me how you are going to work through the legislative process, how you plan to transform your incredible words into remarkable actions. Unfortunately he has failed miserably to do that and I fear his inability to stand strong against the onslaught of the Republican attack machine.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kim, Madison WI — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:12:31 GMT

Laurie,

Your suggestion is perfect!

Obama as President.

Edwards as Secretary of Labor.

Richardson as Secretary of State.

Attorney General is particularly NB to me. I'd like to see someone with impeccable credentials, a lifetime of public service and unquestioned integrity, preferably a true independent.

Suggestions anyone?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Lynneia, Harpers Ferry, WV — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:14:11 GMT

David from Boston...I don't recall three men ganging up on a woman. Only 2, Obama and Edwards. Richardson spoke against those attacks. Furthermore, it really was Edwards more than Obama. Obama did what he needed to do, but did not resort to attacking her. I think he kept his composure and answered questions well.

I am still unsure of who to vote for... Will a vote for Obama be a gift to the Republicans? Will one for Hillary? I am not sure. One thing I am sure of is that I am scared to death of what will happen to this country if the Republicans stay in the White House. We all need to think about this as we vote.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

SN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:15:51 GMT

I think there is a republican conspiracy going. They are trying to pop up Obama and then defeat him easily in general election. He doesn't have any chance of be elected and he is so popular with the media. It's the only explanation. The country is in serious trouble. We cannot have someone learning on the job and experimenting the presidency. That has been done and proved to be disaster.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jon, Minneapolis — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:16:11 GMT

Hillary, What a defense for abortion! Your thoughts about china and romania were VERY convincing!!!
What I don't get is... why do dem's want to keep abortion RARE? If there is nothing wrong with it, why have it be a rare occurrence? Think people!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Shawn, — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:17:15 GMT

Obama is very careful with his answers, I dont think he is stuck most of the times. I believe he believes you should think before you speak and thats what he does because he is educated. There is something about Clinton that is not right and I dont trust her. Im 18 and I am supporting Obama because he is the best person for the job. We dont care Hillary that you did blah blah blah in the 90's. Im sure when you did whatever you did you did not have the "experience" you have now. So why doubt what Obama is saying, that he will bring change? if President Clinton, who then had no experience did all those great things you claim with the budget and stuff, and ran on change. You Mrs.Clinton cannot bring change when you represent the past!.

And I love how now everyone is trying to use Barack's change message. It was really annoying and a turn off that Romney kept saying he changed this and that when he wasnt running on that message before, Clinton aswell trying to get on Barack's band-wagon and Edwards trying to align himself with Obama was just sad to me. What happened to "Two Americas"? . These are some fake and phony people to me and thats why you are not attracting the "Youth" vote because you all are fake and not appealing. Obama won tonight and I think he is on his way to a win on Tuesday.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Shawn, — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:17:15 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tom J — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:18:24 GMT

What exactly is Hillary's "extensive experience"? She touts her health care plan, but health care was the major effort she was in charge of during the Clinton presidency. It failed miserably. Her most crucial vote as a senator was FOR the Iraq war. She says she has experience, but America has received very little from her "experience"!! She will undoubtedly deepen our country's divisions.
Only Obama can unite the country.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Taju — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:18:41 GMT

What since does it make for our President to have a skill of attacking or beating someone in a buzz word debate? Hillary, as most knew, would attack Obama with buzz statements and lost her cool when Edwards called her on her tactics. Not presidential.

I like how Obama thinks about the best course of action. It shows in all that he does. Hillary with all of her experience cannot figure out even how to run her own campaign or figure out how to listen to the American people.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jason Smith, Seattle, Wash — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:18:57 GMT

I watched the entire debate. Clinton did extremely well. I liked the anger. I would vote for Clinton or Obama in the general election.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bill, Phoenix, AZ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:19:52 GMT

Wow.... Hillary Clinton is her own worst enemy! First she say we need to select a candidate who can win in the fall - That is certainly NOT her - not when over 1/2 of Americans wil vote for anyone but her! Then she uses the word "amnesia" regarding her husband's presidency... And that is when I remembered Monica... and Travelgate... and the bitter partisan fighting... and the "vast right-wing conspiracy... and the impeachment... and what does is man anyway? Maybe amnesia is not so bad, if she wants us to vote to go "Back to the Future" with the Clintons!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Amit, Dallas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:20:20 GMT

My thoughts on the debate tonight...

Edwards - Obsessed with I have lived it and it is personal. We have had enough of its personal presidency with Mr Bush. The approach had a complete negative effect on me. Also is he going for the presidential nomination or Barack's vice - president candidacy

Obama - Act presidential, keep talking about change with standard lines and hope the wave continues. We need hope and substance like JFK. Right now all I see is hope. The anchor was correct in saying that Bush and Clinton ran on change campaign. What is new? Anyone who comes into the White House has to change things on the domestic and international front. No one is going to continue with the status quo.So this whole "Change" wave is only one aspect and not the whole campaign. Peel the layers and go deeper. If that had happened before Bush would have never been the president. Trust me Obama is more real and has a much more intellectual horepower than Bush, but don't let this be only on the surface. They all have to work with the Washington machinery. Who is the most effective in driving change through it that is what counts. Obama has to show more substance. He is taking a naive independent raw and fresh into politics generation for a free ride. Show more substance. Talk less change and engage more in real policy discussion.

Hillary - She is carrying the baggage of being in the public limelight for a long time. She has the experience, has made effective policy impact so what is wrong with that. That is what we want from a candidate. Is her likability factor down because she is prepared for the debate and the job. Is it down because she is too ambitious. They all are... and I am glad she gave it back to Edwards. It was a cheap populist shot and she had every right to defend and highlight what she had done. It was firm decisive and controlled aggressions. If you are presidential you have to know when to draw the line and give it back. It was not uncontrolled anger as some of us are interpreting it

Richardson - Good track record and clearly can get a lot of things accomplished. He has his heart in the right place, but I always get a feeling that he will be a great vice president, but not a president. Maybe my biases, but I don't see the same strength and composure that Hillary and Obama are showing

We need Hilary and Obama to move this into a policy and program debate and not a change vs experience debate. It is playing to the gallery. Lets debate serious issues here..

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

T Crawford, Brooklyn, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:24:00 GMT

I've been an obama supporter for a long time. To be honest though, i think we had a good debate tonight, they all performed well. But I have three questions...
1. all of the Hillary supporters who claim Barack is just message, do you actually listen to him answer questions or just run off of her list of talking points...he has, in fact, given nuanced positions on energy, health care, foreign affairs (notice how they all said they'd go in to Pakistan in the actionable intelligence scenario, when 5 months ago he attacked for a weeks worth of news cycles over the issue, primarily by richardson and clinton?) social security, and iraq to name a few...there's a lot of substance behind his message, behind the direction he wishes to lead. most people just don't listen or only go by the wider reports of the dynamic stump speeches.
2. who in their right mind can really compare Obama to bush, who, yes, claimed to be an outsider, but in reality was third generation washington. between his time spent with his father, and his closeness to cheney and rumsfeld (and actually this is the defacto experience that hillary actually lays claim to) there's a lot of experience at 1600 Penn ave. who only listens to one of four or five people. who admittedly never reads anything, a student of nothing. an anti- constitutionalist? who can't speak a grammatically proper sentence.
this comparison is rediculous. i don't want a beer with obama, i want a president who will talk to people, LISTEN, and make an informed decision.
3. while hillary has been a capable senator for seven years, a solid centrist, are hillary's actual legislative accomplishments really that remarkable? is her political career really that impressive? details please if you think so, seriously, I'm open to hearing them. as I remember she was a slow learner when it came to the washington system, this country was very close to a far better health care system in 93/94 and it was her insistence of all or nothing on a debacle of an incredibly long convoluted health plan that left us with nothing, even bob dole was up for compromise! i'm still not convinced she really understands those levers she claims to have mastered. bill was no foreign policy genius, far from it actually, a lot of botched affairs (Rwanda, a starving Russia (how do you think Putin rose to power?) USS Cole, WTO, NAFTA) so what amazing experience is she really drawing on?
even tonight she said she would attack the NATIONS harbouring terrorist cells, not the cells themselves, the NATIONS (so beyond burma, afganistan, pakistan, will we be attacking germany? ok, maybe not fair, but you get my point for anyone looking for that link to GWB policy.)

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Paul Schulz, Katy, TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:25:02 GMT

Without hope, there is no chance at all for change. For HRC to warn against "false hope" is a sign of desperation on her part and offensive to boot. Her shrill response to Edward's "change" comment during the debbate only further highlights that point.

Over the last day or so, every time I'm seen coverage of Obama, I can't help but think of this Curtis Mayfield song (the Rod Stewart / Jeff Beck version, with all apologies to the other artists who have covered it over the years):

People get ready
There's a train a commin'
U don't need no baggage
U just get on board
So people get ready
There'a a train to jordan
Picking up passengers
Coast to coast
Faith is the key
Open the doors and board them
There's hope for all

Obama - 08

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Anthony Peters, Hoboken NJ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:25:21 GMT

I am very confused. The major issue of this campaign seems to be change v. experience. Obama, by his word, is the voice of change. H. Clinton says that she has had "35 years" of experience. On the latter, has HRC held elective office for 35 years? I count only seven. During the debate, she suggested that she was indeed the agent of change, but then lapsed into a defense of her husband's administration by reporting on the reduction of the deficit etc. But, during that same time, the GOP took over: it won more state houses, the Senate, and then the House, and then the Oval Office. Why, because Bill raised taxes and was lucky enough to be in office when the internet economy boomed. Hillary: you lose. Sorry, and from my sources, I understand that she is not such a nice person, either. BTW, I've voted for a Republican since Reagan, and now will campaign for B.O.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Chuck K, Buffalo, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:25:34 GMT

I would also like Clinton to explain what CHANGES she has made in her 30+ years of experience. I keep hearing her say that, but I don't know what she's done of any significance. Someone please enlighten me.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

anne t., terre haute, in — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:25:37 GMT

Hillary is not an example women want. She stood by a cheating husband and suffered public humilitation because they have a political partnership. She should have left him in her dust. But then she wouldn't be so politically viable. If she is willing to make deals with the devil what does that say about her character?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ralph Brasacchio, Victor, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:25:47 GMT

Overall, if you had already been swinging toward one or the other candidate, the dem debate probably just confirmed those leanings. But what would you expect since these ordeals are so manufactured anyway. Did anyone expect anyone to really croak tonight? Anyway, with that said, I tend to think that Clinton was the more substantive and lucid on a number of issues.And I think she also hit just the right tone with her "defense", backing it up and making her appear no pushover. Get over it--if she were a man noone would blink an eye at that sort of strong response! And her tongue-in-cheek line about her "hurt feelings" that Obama was so "liked" was clever and well-delivered, rather subtly attempting to defuse both the hoopla bandwagon over Obama (which is lets face it at least in some or perhaps a significant part, a media manipulation), and maybe to dispel the notion that she can't take the heat since she's a "girl". I think she largely accomplished what she had to--or so I thought based on even some of the media expectations and my own leanings, but also perhaps on a more substantive level. So, yeah I think she "obviously WON"!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Greg, Chicago suburbs — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:26:33 GMT

Edwards attack on Clinton for being part of the establishment that resents the true agents of change was disingeuos and pure political calculation. He showed himself to be a total phony.

Clinton easily has the most experience and ability to lead to real change....just like Bill Clinton did. Being a lifelong democrat, I will never, ever vote for Edwards after what he did tonight. Hillary's my first choice with Obama acceptable for his genuineness, extreme intelligence and thoughtfulness.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Elizabeth A Massaro — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:26:34 GMT

I thought Hillary looked sedated when the debate first started. She should have taken her relaxer earlier. She was pale and looked tired. I get tired of watching her head bob up and down when some one is speaking. It makes me want to stick her to my dash in the car. Goodbye Hill, we all know the only reason you stayed with Bill is because you thought you would one day be President. Not on my Watch... Go Obama Hillary drop Bill

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

judith l. pittsburgh pa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:27:07 GMT

i wonder how well obama....if he's the nominee....will
fare against the repubs...he may be a wonderful speaker...but no a debater...give me hillary or maybe
edwards...the name of the game is to WIN

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:27:26 GMT

Hillary wasn't bad tonight. In fact, aside from the pouty-little-girl thing (too cute by half), I think that she was her most real. In other circumstances I could like her.

However, she did herself no good by going on the attack. She was ferocious and calculating but I guess this was a difficult game to play. In order to differentiate herself from Barack, she had to do this tight-rope walk but I think that she fell into the net on more than one occassion (also had a few good lines).

As Chris Matthews says, 'it's best to attack when you are put on the defensive mode'. That way the offensive edge of the attack is lost. She was definitely always on offense during her attacks and she came off as mean and antagonistic.

She is no doubt intelligent and articulate but I don't buy the experience and knowledge schtick. I really don't think that her feel for the Middle East and the Asian subcontinent is anywhere near that of Obama's. Also her votes on the war negate any claim to experience and judgment.

Still, Hillary has come along way as a campaigner (if you compare her to her campaign against Rick Lazio in 2000). But getting the award as most improved campaigner does not negate the fact that for me Obama is far more inspirational. He can inspire this nation to move mountains and that's how real cataclysmic change will be delivered. Tonight he demonstrated a clear command of facts and had salient interpretations of world situations; he clearly delivered on the matter of presidential substance and still managed to stay above the fray.

Obama's locomotive is now an express train; it's unstoppable. The sad thing, the ironic thing is that Hillary has been compromised by her association with the men around her, i.e. Bill and Mark Penn. She is just too calculating and rigid and this limits her true progressive nature; a nature, that I think, she might have possessed long ago. Oh well, as she said on Dave Letterman the other night, 'all good things must come to an end.' What self-fulfilling prophecy that is.
Obama '08

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

pmorlan, Louisville, KY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:27:27 GMT

There is so much fatigue on that stage. Look at them when they weren't answering questions, when they were just in repose. Their faces were glum...down. There we see little bit of it right there (video clip interjection)...I think the ... There's Barack Obama. He's like: 'Where am I? How much more time do we have on this tonight?'...And I think that was a real factor tonight -- the fatigue. The exception was John Edwards. I think he showed passion and vitality and energy tonight. He was on message. He had a strategy. Tonight I think this was one of his best debates...STEPHANOAPOULOS

Between the debate and the Boston Globe finally calling Obama for stealing material from Edwards, this has been a great night for Edwards.

Obama borrows from Edwards

By Sasha Issenberg, Globe Staff

NASHUA, N.H. -- After beating John Edwards in Iowa on Thursday, Barack Obama has decided to join him -- repeatedly poaching his opponent's themes, language, and even jokes

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/01/obama_borrows_f.html

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

DDT - West Palm Beach, FL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:28:18 GMT

I give Hillary credit for having command of facts and intelligence on complicated matters. She does have depth and it showed in her discussions in the debate.

However, she is wrong for our time and wrong on the importance of passion, vision, inspiration and words that motivate men and women. Soldiers fight and die in war for the inspirational words of their commander. We only have to look back in history at the great words of Winston Churchill and FDR to know its true. Inspiration put us on the moon!

Hillary demonstrates no humility for the office, no recognition of the role of the people in shaping government for the people. No Hillary, you aren't doing us a favor by being elected. No "you" don't dish out "gifts" to America. Perhaps you are battle-tested because you're a lightning rod.

We need a President that brings people together. No I don't consider Republicans my mortal enemy, they love this country as much as you do. No house divided can stand. You are incapable of bringing both sides together...we're tired of your framing issues as battle against other Americans. 7 years of King George was worn us out! Your positions are based on "us" against "them". That's why nothing has been done in Washington on your watch.

God Bless America. The greatest country in the world where we can say and debate these things!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Trey, Manchester, NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:28:36 GMT

Look, I don't get it. Maybe it's me, maybe it's the booze, it could be the weed, I just don't know. :)

What I don't get is how come so many people are missing the point. Everybody now seems to agree that we want change. What everybody seems to mostly focus on is what we will be changing to. What's going on right now is that we hope it will be better in the future than it's been lately but change from we've had/have is what we want. We want a change from the Cinton/Bush era. Stay-the-course Hillary doesn't understand that SHE is the past or as much a part of it as Bush is. We want a change from her, from him. Some of us are sickened by the thought that Bush's ugly mug will be replaced by hers for the next four years. Heck, at least half the country will vote for anybody but Hillary. She doesn't care. She doesn't care about the country. She cares about Hillary. She doesn't get that she is the problem and the segment of the country that is in love with her doesn't care about how the rest of the country feels either. We need to find a candidate that can unite us a bit more than what we have now. Bush promised that but didn't deliver. He lied.

I don't know who the best candidate for this task is but it will take a lot more booze and a lot more weed before I come around to thinking Hillary is for the change most of us really want. I will predict this. If Hillary is by some voodoo-magic elected, the Democrats will lose the congress in 2010.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Toni, Carmel, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:29:21 GMT

Obama needs to have Hillary cite precisely what she accomplished in "35 years" and ask her when all these accomplishments began -- in 1973? She tried to recite some tonight but when I heard her boast about her educational plan in Arkansas I could not believe she wasn't called on it. If someone would bother to delve into the records, they'd see that Arkansas ranked 49 out of 50 when she left the State. She promised jobs to upstate NY and hasn't delivered. Promised to release records detailing her role as First Lady and we're still waiting. Now she claims to have played a large role in the peace talks in Ireland but no mention was made in her memoirs nor her husbands of her participation at all. Her only claim to fame has been the disasterous hillarycare. I urge everyone not to be fooled by her 35 years of experience mantra until proof is provided just what she actually accomplished.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Barbara — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:30:02 GMT

I'm baffled at how "big bad" Hillary starts the fight on stage and then wants to play the role of little innocent "my feelings are hurt" girl once the attacks are aimed at her. She is acting more like a zero than a hero. Make up your mind flip-flopper.
Barbara--Memphis

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tony, Ashland, KY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:30:11 GMT

Clinton won tonight. EXPERIENCE speaks volumes when it comes to being president of our great Country as well as the leader of the free world. If you want another non-experienced president...vote for Ole "W" again. She was able to hold her own with all the others, whether perceived as angry or not!!! Democrats & independents I hope you see the light and vote Clinton in all states!!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Brandon, Kingwood, WV — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:30:30 GMT

I was very surprised by Hillary's lack of composure following John Edwards' "status quo" remark -- it was as if she were yelling. As a young Democrat who believes in the basic principles of the Democratic party (equality, civil rights, autonomy, personal liberty) I hope that Barack Obama defeats Hillary and takes the party out of the Clintons' control. While both Bill and Hillary are strong, intelligent and cpable leaders, this is time for a new generation to turn the page of history. True change does not come from stale and nostalgic memories of 1992. We need a visionary. And in Barack Obama, despite his political greenness, I know that we have found that.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

C Hale, New York, New York. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:31:22 GMT

It was great to hear the Democratic nominees battle it out after the Republicans, who just do not seem to understand that the party is in need of a much needed facelift...

The American people are tired of what we now hear termed as 'old washington', they want a white house which has the people in mind not a white house which has adopted any which platform to get elected.

The Dems did not disappoint.

All came off as competent, Obama seemed a bit reserved at a touch less passionate... though he has won the first battle he has not yet won the war. He is a charismatic speaker and has a winning message of change and hope but I can't get around feeling that this country needs more than just inspirational words... we're undoubtedly at a crossroads and Dems are notorious for talking the talk... at this juncture the country needs someone who KNOWS.

Richardson got the chance I have been waiting for him to get this debate, he stood out as a capable and TRIED and TESTED leader... I was definitely liking his platform and am more than a bit upset by the dismissal he has gotten up till now.

Hillary walked into the debate with something to prove- tonight she could not disappoint. She was on the defensive which many picked up on as a shrill moment in the debate which may not have come off as strictly 'presidential', however she more than made up for it when it came to the economy and logistics generally. Clinton knows her stuff- she walked into the debate informed and ready to pull out topical info when necessary- she brought up the "R" word which shows her pragmatism, often misinterpreted as cynicism.

Edwards did very well, I'm not sure I would call him the overall winner as people tend to see things differently but I really responded to the points he was making and the fact that he realizes that change is necessary but is taking a firm stance on what kind of change, for the middle class, and his willingness to give it his all... you can tell how much he wants it.

All in all I'll say I wouldn't be surprised at all by an Obama Edwards or Clinton Edwards ticket- thought Clinton has got some likability issues I feel that we could all benefit from a little reminder... Bush Jr was the candidate that the country felt that it could "have a beer with" Commander in Chief needs a bit more substance than that.

This next term will be one of the hardest EVER... there is no real way for the next president to be successful unless he or she has got a hell of a lot of fight in him or her.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Eloy Delgado, Elizabeth, NJ. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:34:50 GMT

Hillary, I believe, defended herself in a strong eloquent way. To be candid, the only reason people are being put off by her strong answer is because she is a woman. Edward’s was just as emotional, if not more so, yet no one says that he lost his cool. If a woman is strong and confident she is emotional, while a guy is impassioned

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Manu, DC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:37:25 GMT

Todd: you are dead wrong. Obama was horrible. Clinton and Edwards excellent. Why on earth is a candidate forecefully responding to an attack bad? Hillary did it well and totally fine. the media is crazy and covering clinton totally unfairly.

why don't you mention that edwards thought "the patient bill of rights" was his major accomplishment only to be told by clinton that it was never enacted into law. obama and edwards have no accomplishment of any significance and clinton made that clear. please do better reporting.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

J. Franklin, Denver, CO — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:38:35 GMT

I don't believe that debate performances can help as much as they can hurt a candidate. I'm an Obama supporter but would say that Edwards performed best, as he has consistently in my opinion. But that doesn't make him more electable and the polls have demonstrated that thus far. On the other hand, this debate performance will probably hurt Hillary. Whether fair or not, I think most people will perceive her as having gotten a little too "nasty" tonight and having shown an "ugly" side of her personality. Comparing Obama to Bush was pretty weak as well. The problems in the Bush administration stem from poor priorities and judgment, not a lack of experience. If Obama wins NH with a strong showing among independents (as he did in Iowa), then I hope people stop debating the "electability" question, once and for all. I agree with those who see Edwards as a strong VP candidate and Richardson as a potential secretary of state. Go Obama!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:39:24 GMT

there you go again, Chuck Todd...sprouting the company line...you, Matthews, Joe S, Tucker, and the rest of you can consider yourself responsible for loss of MSNBC viewers...you all have lost all creditability with objective, intelligent people...we can predict what you are going to say before you say it...that is how pathetic and biased you all are perceived...it is tragic and so disappointing...you and your gang insult the intelligence of the viewers... the spin is so OBVIOUS...

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Amy S, Delmar, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:40:31 GMT

When Hillary cited evidence of the Clinton administration's record of 'change' as raising taxes, eliminating the inherited deficit and leaving a surplus, I liked Obama's response. He said he appreciated BILL Clinton's courage and achievements. The moderators did not follow up on this, but it begs the question nicely. That's Bill's record in office, not Hillary's. She keeps talking about 35 years of experience, but relatively little of it has been in positions she's been elected to and directly accountable for.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

LMW, Anderson, South Carolina — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:41:36 GMT

I think that Barack Obama won the debate, followed by John Edwards, then Bill Richardson, and Hillary last. She seemed very angry. I guess that she realizes that a loss in New Hampshire (after losing in Iowa last week), will certainly damage her even more. And, I think that she is waiting for the opportunity to go hard after Barack. But, even if she did get the chance, it would more than likely backfire on her, because it would more than likely on serve to further paint her as divisive, self-centered, cold, a part of the past, and just not what we need right now.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John K, Beacon, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:42:08 GMT

There is not a person around who hasn't been President before who knows or has the experience to be president. You have to decide whether someone has the intelligence and judgment to make the right decisions. I think that all the democrat candidates meet that standard. Hillary's "experience" is like the story of the little boy who comes running into the house shouting to his Ma that "me and Pa shot a bear." She needs to chill and let the next generation come in as her husband came in in 1992.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Russ, Oklahoma City — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:44:11 GMT

Hillary was clearly the most articulate in the group, with Edwards not far behind. How can you all keep saying how great Obama is when he stutters and struggles to get his points out? Hillary is passionate about defending herself when being attacked. All of you men out there who keep saying she is emotional need to do a bit of self-assessment. If a man defends himself, it's fine. If a woman does, she's shrill or emotional. That's a bunch of bunk. I struggle to like Obama. I may in a few years time. But he is still all words and words are just words until they have actions behind them and to date, Obama's actions are minimal. Hillary was the only one who had anyone applaud for her, and that happened twice. I think you will all be surprised by the results on Tuesday after that debate.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

J, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:45:11 GMT

I've been a Hillary supporter since the early Clinton years, waiting patiently for her to run and show em how it is supposed to be done. She is qualified and capable, but unfortunately her time has passed. We need more than a president at this time; we need a leader and that leader is Barack Obama. I don't consider experience to be a dirty word and that is why I am sure that Obama will staff his cabinet and other critical positions with the most competent, intelligent and experienced individuals regardless of political affiliation. I am with him until the end because he has the courage to rewrite the position description of the presidency and that was long overdue.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mattia, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:51:48 GMT

Hillary had a right to get angry. How many more of these attacks on her character should she have to endure? She is a leader and advocate for change for better. This has been evident throughout her entire life. One should not question her desire to do something right, and instead allow her the praise for her accomplishments in actually bringing about change for the better. It's rough that she has had to consistently and unfairly defend this more than anyone else on that stage.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Susan Smith, Nashua, NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:52:08 GMT

No question Hillary won the debate! Obama never answered her accusations! Didn't anyone notice? If Obama had raised his voice to Hillary, his supporters would be talking about how "presidential" he looked. Give me a break. Clinton supporters are so fed up with the biased media. Obama never gets second-guessed like Hillary. Chris Matthews talks about how dangerous this world is, then he turns around and supports a candidate with no experience. And anybody who says Chuck Todd is for Clinton is on crack. Have you READ his comments?
HILLARY WINS BY A MILE THIS DEBATE!!!!!!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Lura, Philadelphia, PA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:52:40 GMT

I think that Edwards clearly won the debate, with energy passion and vision. He is the only one that clearly delineates what's wrong: the manipulation of corporate interests in ripping off the people. I think Hillary was second. I actually enjoyed seeing some feistiness in her, and she is practical and sharp. Obama was just okay. A couple of answers were good, but generally he rode Edwards' coattails.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jacob Nidey — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:53:56 GMT

I don't know how much of a difference this makes, but I was on the road during the debate, so I listened to it on the radio. Without any visual input, I thought that Obama won the debate, and if/when Edwards bows out, he will endorse the Obama campaign. I think that of the candidates featured, Richardson has the most experience, yet Hillary is said to be the agent of experience while the flash in the pan Obama promises pipe dreams. I personally thought the best qualified candidate to start with was Joe Biden, but look how much support he got. I also, to be fair, listened to the Republicans, and think that Ron Paul was hands down above the fray. He is the only Republican willing to distance himself from the Bush administration and when the topic turned to health care, he showed his expertise as a physician. I hope he is the Libertarian candidate, because I will support him if Hillary is the nominee, because she is so fake and so negatively construed that she will prove to be George W. Bush with a "D" next to her name. She has every bit as much elected experience as Sen. Obama (if you factor in his state legislative experience) and her claim to be an expert due to sitting in on the White House is much like my claiming I am qualifed to be a professor because I sat in so many while in college. I will not, however, say that Obama would be the best president of the bunch. Sadly, the individual who fits that bill has left the race, and the next best thing is Bill Richardson, who will languish toward the bottom. And to those who cry sexism due to "piling on" towards Hillary, that type of backward logic may lead to you being called racist and bigoted (which most of you are not, of course, but you see the gap in logic). I will stop rambling now, I think.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mike Newberry, Papalote Texas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:54:57 GMT

Reading about what people think about the debate is entertaining for me - pretty good stuff. However, the item in front of us is who can lift up this country? Who can put us into a leadership position again among other countries? Who is the special individual that can carryout the intentions of our founding fathers? Forget about who "might" lose or win against a republican. Think about the issues of our time - environment, economy, security, education, etc. and who might be the best person to wrap their arms around those issues and bring all of us together. Do your homework - do not listen to the rhetoric, but study the candidates stance on issues and make your best choice. Let's not make the same mistake we made in the last two elections. We had to apologize to the world for our choice (remember the "sorry" pictures/signs?).

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

sherry jacobs fairfield ohio — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:55:25 GMT

i cant beleive that after the last 8 years we have had in this country, that the media still talks about stupid things. in 2004 it sunk kerry over story after story about the swift voters. now we are at a critical point in this country. we are in an war started on false pretenses. people like me have filed bankruptcy for the first time in our lives because of health care bills. and we are one of the insured. for gods sake talk about content of the issues. i am begging you. please tell people that obama said he is not mandating health care for only children. most of us adults in the old middle class are hurting. we are begging you on our knees to bring out these issues. if not then you are responsible for the results. what a different country this would have been if gore had been elected in 2000. look at how many lives would still be here, that have died in iraq. maybe 9-11 would have been stopped since the bush adm received a memo saying that bin laden to attack the us on 9-11. maybe the gore administration would have read the memo

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jefferson Jones, Cleveland, Ohio — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:57:14 GMT

1st debate I've watched and here are my thoughts about it and the comments I've read so far: First the Republicans. I have to admit I am a frustrated voter meaning I am unhappy with the performance of the Democrats in the last 30 years and I am unhappy with the excesses of the Republicans (during the last administration). My knowledge about the Republican candidates is limited so bear with my short comments.
Guiliani - sounds very informed and has good policies, but I have some concerns about issues (the undisputed ones) which are coming to light;
Romney - first time I've seen him (wouldn't have recognized him if he had been standing right in front of me), looks like an effective businessman, but I have to say my spirit doesn't get a good vibe from him.
Huckabee looks and sounds mature and reasoned.
Ron Paul - Has great technical answers, but I am a little concerned about the extent of what I would call his libetarian leanings. he kind of reminds me of the Ralph Nader, knowledgeble about the facts of specific situations, but not someone I would think could handle the complexities of running a large administration with many, many major issues and the nuances or non-technical sides of leadership;
Fred Thompson - I was not impressed with his presentation or message. He has a great voice though, makes you want to listen to him, but then you (or I) am waiting to hear something qualitative;
McCain – mature (though he does seem to have a side which is inclined towards practical jokes), politically seasoned and seems to be able to work both sides of the aisle, a balanced and practical military man, I don’t agree with all his positions, but the do seem to be well reasoned and at the very least workable. Steady...Seems to stick to his guns.

Now for the Democrats
Edwards had positive energy and a populist message (that's not a negative thing in my book), I did get a little tired of the relatives in the mills comments, he "looks" (whatever that means) more like a vice-president or cabinet official than a president, though their may have been a tactical purpose for his response to Hillary's comments to Barack, I think his comments were apropos;
Barack did look a little worn or "older", more stately, did not speak as well as I would have thought, but his messages were clear and adequate, I don't think he was a willing participant in the tag-team which I keep reading about, his responses were not super-specific but adequate (in my opinion) for a debate;
Richardson was...hmmm...I'm not really sure what to say about him, seems like a nice enough fellow, probably an effective leader (as determined by his current position and his achievement), though his debate performance left me wanting as did his responses to specific scenarios which seemed a little vague;
Hillary was detailed, rationale and informed in her responses, I was surprised by the emnity she demonstrated in response to Edwards, I was disappointed in her criticism of the importance of words, I do get the feeling that she is being strategic in her presentation and arguments at least those arguments that deal with her experience (again, I think her responses to specific scenarios were/are well-reasoned and make sense.
Overall:
I think how well a person debates has little to know indication of how well they can govern;
How one handles themselve in a debate is more indicative of how one will handle under stress;
Presidents do not have to be expert in any particular policy role, they have and are surrounded by experts to give them the options;
Presidents do have to be able to manage their "experts" and inspire people to believe, especially in difficult times, which we are currently experiencing and will continue to experience for many, many years to come.
I've have been staying out of this political "thing" for some time, I have more important responsibilities to attend to, but I have a good feeling who I believe I will vote for in November. But, I hope my thoughts incline people to think a little deeper than I have gathered on these blogs and more importantly, I hope people vote for what's in the best interests of our children's children. For those of you who do not have any children, you may not really be able to understand that last comment, but for those of you who do have children, care for them, and love them, you will understand.
Peace

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mike Frazier — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:57:19 GMT

It looks like many of the people posting here are plants from the Obama or Edwards camp. Many of the criticisms of Clinton are shallow and unsupported hype.

I am no longer certain she will take the nomination, but not because my opinion of her has changed. On the contrary, I am as convinced as ever that she is the best person for the job. Obama is a spellbinder, and given a bit more seasoning I think he might one day be a truly great president; but now is not the time. He isn't ready for the challenges we face in the immediate future. Hillary is. But I have been reminded over the last day or so that, for many people, style trumps substance; and in a contest of style between Hillary and Obama, Obama will prevail.

If Hillary doesn't win the nomination, I won't be voting for a Democrat. That's not sour grapes; I just don't believe in any of the other candidates. I probably won't vote at all.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Marcia, Gold Canyon, AZ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:57:51 GMT

Scarey how many women there are on this blog who are so willing to slash a woman who stands up for herself (male identified much?) I am always disappointed that we turn so easily on each other---say 'she's wrong', say 'I disagree with her'--but "angry", "fangs beared" and an asortment of '@$!*&' type references? What a sorry job we've done with the next generation of women...I'll bet some of you think the definition of feminism translates to not doing housework, right? It's a little more than that---in part, it's recognizing gender bias when you see it and making a concerted effort not to let it taint your own thinking and/or speaking.

I don't see Obama as male or black...I love his vision, his rhetoric and a few of his ideas...all of which is simply not enough. I don't confuse what I admire about the man with the fact that he simply is not prepared to be POTUS. I would certainly never call him profane names, critisize his appearance or his laugh or his facial gestures, etc.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Parisa...Ormond Beach FL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 05:59:48 GMT

Hillary was the clear winner tonight. Obama couldn't hold a candle to her in the debate arena. He hesitated alot and stuttered when his inexperience and changing of positions was brought to the forefront and had to recite his speech in bits and pieces to cover the obvious fact he did not have a concise answer to the questions asked of him.
I find it odd that when Hillary stood up for herself some saw that as anger but when Obama or Edwards took a stand they were showing passion...what a double standard!!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Andy, Baltimore, MD — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:00:49 GMT

It's remarkable how whiney and bitter the Clinton supporters are being with their comments here. I also find it comical that the people critiquing Obama's "lacking" debate skills can barely form a coherent sentence. Hillary Clinton's "experience" is vastly overstated. It's laughable to call her time as first lady comparable with Bill Richardson's experience, and if you go only by her time in the Senate, then she has no more than John Edwards, who -- like Obama -- looked very sharp tonight.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

JoeyB Pittsburgh Pa. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:03:47 GMT

I think all who say Obama is it,are nut's he has no idea what he's talking about, If it's not written down on paper, He can't even answer a question.
About Hillary and defending herself I thought she did a fine job. If Obama gets the dem's backing I will vote republican.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Marla A. Baltimore,MD. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:05:14 GMT

I loved the format tonite-I felt able to truly get a much better sense of who each of these people are.I have loved the Clintons all during"our" years at the White House-respecting Hillary afterwards and admiring her on many levels--When she first decided to run, my knee jerk reaction was "certainly" I'm going to vote for her--Then I began to observe her becoming so harsh,so cold, so rightous that I was totally perplexed. Along came Barack--Here is a man who knows that change-true change-is about living in posibility-its about becoming--its not about "setting a goal and achieving it" as Hil said-and it seems what is needed isn't CHANGE so much as TRANFORMATION--and I'm not taking semantics--Barack gets it-- and she knows that he is about "WHAT'S NEXT"...and what we saw tonite was a very threatened Miss Hill. I think the only place that she showed any bit of strength was when discussing our nuclear policy.I think that the HUMANITY of all 3 of THE BOYS were spectacular-especially since they were exhausted! She was, and I say this sadly,to busy being "powerful"and for me, has lost her humanity in the process. The remark that Barack made about her being "likeable enough" was,really a brilliant act of kindness on his part--he has taken the HIGH ROAD 100% of the time--I am tired of being mortified by the behavior,arrogance and irresponsibility of our current "leader"-I am tired of ASHAMED of what circumstances he and his cronies have put our country in. I want a president that I can be PROUD of and that I know is calm under fire--Considering the condition GWB is leaving the country in, we should be GREATFUL that ANYONE in their right mind would be willing to take this position on! For me,there is no longer a choice--Barack Baby--come on Down!(And bring John Edwards as VP). Thanks and Never EVER Did I mean this More than Now....GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ann L Bethesda, MD — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:10:19 GMT

I am a 59 year old woman who would love to vote for a woman president but not Hillary Clinton. It would not be historic. It would be embarrasing and depressing if she won. Real women stand on their own two feet and do the work themselves. I still cannot figure out who Hillary is without Bill. She does not have 35 years of her own experience. She has given us a failed health care plan that set this country back decades and a vote for the Iraq war that will affect the lives of our veterans for decades to come. We do not need that kind of experience. The rest of her claims are vague and not convincing to me. The only change I see is her abilty to change herself into whatever she thinks will get her elected. She is not a real leader. I feel sorry for her. This is not her time.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bob Columbus, IN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:11:07 GMT

This debate demonstrates that Richardson and Edwards both need Clinton out of the race and want to keep friendly with the Obama camp. I'm not sure what happens if Hillary drops out with the three of them still in. Then do they go after Obama or do they just hope that he stumbles sometime in Feb? Still, it appears as if both have accepted the fact that Obama is not only the front runner but is setting the tone.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kaye — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:11:11 GMT

Clinton had to stand up for herself in an argument that she started? Watch the debate again, she got the claws out first on Obama insinuating he is a flip flopper and could debate himself. Edwards then defended Barack. Barack answered the charges Hillary lobbed against him. If she cant take the heat she should get out of the kitchen, she can attack and thereby must be prepared for ppl to bring up corporate ties. Hillary and her supporters need to stop whining, that is why she is now losing the race, ppl do not have the patience or the stomach for crybaby politics.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

betty c — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:15:40 GMT

I am one of those senior Democrat women that Clinton thinks she can take for granted. Would she believe that I find her shrill, nasty, sneaky and am old enough to remember the Rose law firm and Whitewater. And let's not forget her having to testify in DC. Depends on what homesty is, just like "it depends on what is, is." The idea of Bill Clinton having unrestrained use of the White House scares me to death. Someone can be appreciated for being charming at the same time you wouldn't turn over your bank account to them. That's how I, a loyal Democrat, feel about the Clintons. The people who suggest a ticket of Obama/Edwards may have a great idea. But I would personally like to see Obama as President, Dodd at Defense,
Biden at State and Edwards at the UN.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Undecided Independent Voter — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:17:05 GMT

The debates are too generalized regarding different issues (they are made for TV). The Jim Leher News Show on PBS should conduct a detailed debate on all the major topics; Irag, economy, climate change, immigration, healthcare, etc. I want each candidate to explain in detail there documented plan for each issue and how they will pay for it. Currently, the debate format is not substantive. It's a likeability contest; a candidate can be articulate and inspiratonal and win people over without really providing substance.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ava — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:17:47 GMT

Hillary has a problem. The undecided voters in the Fox News post-debate focus group had the following advice for her.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Apv5KWHgXTE

(1)Being the wife of a president isn’t the same thing as experience
(2)Stop citing your husband’s experience as your own
(3)You’re the establishment, so you don’t represent change
(4)Don’t be so defensive
(5)Barack Obama is the candidate of change

I’m for Barack, so I have no intention of voting for Hillary, but I think it’s perfectly legitimate to engage in a debate of policy and experience. The thing though is that by constantly overstating her experience to include her husband’s two terms as president, Hillary has lost credibility. She has some experience, but because she’s padding her resume to get the job and voters know it, they’re now not really giving her much credit for ANY of her experience. Think about how you’d be treated by a potential employer who really liked you, but then realized you lied on your resume. You’d be toast, and Hillary is toast. We already have one Liar in Chief in the White House and people don’t want another one. If you can’t tell the truth about your accomplishments, what else are you going to lie about?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ted, San Diego — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:18:19 GMT

Dems, take it from an Independent, Hillary will never win. She is just plain awful, every man's worst nightmare. I have yet to speak with anyone who likes her, except my rich mother-in-law. Obama, on the other hand is inspiring, he is the future. The GOP really wants to go against Clinton, they fear Obama.

Dems, vote Obama, when he wins, he'll figure it out, and get good people to help him. He's the right person for the job.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John, Los angeles — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:19:13 GMT

I cant believe how great Hillary did! Wow! Her moment of "anger" was actually passion, and it showed that she was PASSIONATE for change. She is so great!

Hillary 08

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Olamaxx, Chicago. Il — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:23:16 GMT

I hate to see people talking and acting partisan,when we need to stick together and create an energetic force to tackle the challenges before us just like the founders would have acted. Remember this is The United State of America. So, I would love to have Obama as the next President.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Andy, Baltimore, MD — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:23:16 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sally Burns, Eden Prairie, MN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:23:39 GMT

It's a great sound bite to talk about change, but we had change eight years ago and look where we are now,
Hillary Clinton started her campaign focused on experience and change including the theme song about "tomorrow", although the corporate media wants us to believe it's a new theme in her campaign, and she followed up the sound bite with specifics about what changes she favores and how she'd accomplish them. Obama uses the rhetoric but never does he specify what change or how he will accomplish it except in very general terms. Those who say he "rose above the fray" at the debate apparently didn't notice that he also failed to tell us anything specific about what change he would affect and what compromises he would make to be the "non-partisan" president? To me, there is no question who should be President but Hillary Clinton, with Edwards a distant second.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sally Burns, Eden Prairie, MN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:23:40 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Gary, Sonoma, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:27:28 GMT

Remember this? This captures exactly what is going on in this campaign for the nomination. Absolutely prophetic!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6h3G-lMZxjo

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

nina — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:28:04 GMT

There was no tag team or gang up tonight. Clinton mounted an attack against Obama and attempted to solicit Edward’s assistance. Edwards didnt take the bait. Clinton’s attack ricocheted. She ought to aim her darts with more accuracy. Clinton is not tough she is enraged and her loss of composure was hilarious. And she wants to run the county?

The argument that there is a narrowly defined type of experience (time in the Washington establishment) is ridiculous. Both Biden and Dodd had more Washington experience in foreign affairs and many more years in the Senate than Clinton. If experience is the sole factor in selecting a candidate why didn’t the Clinton supporters show allegiance to those candidates? Cheney and Rumsfeld had more foreign policy and executive experience than Clinton and all of the current Republican candidates and look at the results of all of that experience. This is about the right kind of experience and that kind of experience can be gained in grass root organizations, State legislatures, work in the area of constitutional law or establishing a community based organization. Quite frankly the sum total of an individual’s experience as a public servant can also contribute to preparedness for the Presidency. Other characteristics that ought to count include integrity, genuineness, character and intellect. Clinton lacks genuineness and now, after her performance tonight, her character and her judgment are questionable.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Scott K, Burlington, NJ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:29:26 GMT

Before Joe Biden dropped out of the race, he was my 1st choice...

After the Iowa caucuses I 1st heard Edwards give his 2nd place speech and thought, wow, that was a great speech. Then I listened to Obama's speech and was moved even further... very nice.

Before the dem's debate I was really rooting for Obama. Here's my honest take. My take was Edwards came in 1st, Richardson 2nd, and Obama and Clinton, a close 3rd and 4th, respectively. Frankly, the polish of Obama's words in Tuesdays night's speech was missing tonight... he seemed a little tired, and was finding a little trouble finding some words tonite. He did, okay, overall. However, Hilary, did the big no-no, and really showed her temper again... that is not gonna cut it...

I'm not sure anyone can stop the Obama juggernaut, however... and think in the general election, he will galvanize a lot of disaffected and minority voters to come to the polls... and this will overcome those that would never vote for a bi-racial candidate if their life depended on it.

It would be interesting if Edwards were able to leap frog over Clinton in NH, to take 2nd place there...

But if he can't and he drops out, it's game over Clinton... cause as Iowa showed, the 2nd choice of most persons, is not Mrs. Clinton. I don't think she is a bad person, but she couldn't get universal health care reform through with all her "experience." ... perhaps its her lack of charm.

Peace all.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Been There, Iowa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:31:14 GMT

Chuck T--

Will you tell the dolts you were on MSNBC with this afternoon (David Gregory, Mitchell, and the incredibly clueless Russert) that THEY are exactly part of the whole 'Clinton establshemnt' that the rest of us are sick of, and we do not want to hear them put her out front. These are the same geniuses that nominated Gore and Kerry--there's a couple of big time winners for you. Let Edwards and Obama figure it out---we deserve it. For Marcia and the rest who think it would be 'cute' to have a woman president, well, great. Just not the one now nominated---we cannot risk a generation of failure as a result of putting forward a flawed and horribly polarizing candidate. We don't like her, and we don't want to put up with 8 years of 'gridlock', the system which oddly enough produced the Bill Clinton results everyone purrs about now. Give up the ghost.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Desemac, ABQ NM — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:34:34 GMT

Why is a woman speaking with passion called SHRILL and a man called, well... PASSIONATE? Hillary did a great job. BRAVA. My vote in the Feb caucus is secure for Hillary.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Voter mesa,az — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:35:53 GMT

Obama and Edwards attacked Hillary in previous debates and everyone thought they got the best of her because she didn't defend herself. Now that she does fight back she is mean spirited. Get a grip. I want someone as president that has backbone. Not a preacher like Obama or a coattail rider like Edwards. He has a lot of guts going after Hillary because he says she not frontrunner. He was Mr. Mean till he say Obama was playing Mr. Nice guy. He is depending on edwards to do dirty work for in front of cameras and playing just as dirty behind scenes. Go Hillary

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

bob10001 — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:36:05 GMT

"Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth ..." Words and how you say them mean a whole lot, Hillary. They can free a people, they can change a nation. Only Barck Obama has that ability among you. Sorry Hillary and John, it's time for new leadership and a new direction.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Clay Anderson, Wheaton IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:38:08 GMT

As I've read through these comments, I've repeatedly encountered the perspective that "actions are better than words" in support of Hillary's experience. Conversely, others argue that "we need inspiration" in support of Barack.

But surprisingly, no one here has identified what, to me, should be the central issue of any presidential race: character. Experience is crucial, but no candidate has the experience to perform the job on all fronts: economic, foreign policy, legislative, etc. That's why presidents surround themselves with an administration. But it is equally true that inspiring words are only the beginning; they must be matched with action.

So to me, the much more important question is one of trust: do I trust this candidate to make decisions of integrity and courage when the circumstances demand it? Do I trust this candidate's character to always pursue the good of the nation? Do I have confidence that faced with an unfamiliar situation, this candidate has the support, perspective, and courage to make the right choice?

This is where Barack appeals to me. I don't support his candidacy simply because he can deliver a stirring speech (though I do believe some inspiring rhetoric might do us well). I support him because he is perhaps the only candidate, from either party, whom I feel I can trust.

Hillary worries me precisely because of her history. For eight years, the Clintons showed themselves to be lovers of self and lovers of power. Neither aspect is compatible with trustworthy character.

Alex, your comment on experience in politics is important and compelling. But it is this issue of integrity that trumps experience. Experience itself is not a liability. Instead, it's the agenda, the connections, the insider backscratching, and the distortion of character that too often comes with that experience.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ice Breaker, Des Moines, Iowa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:39:42 GMT

I just read this article that the Clinton campaign put out mailers claiming Obama doesn't stand for a womans right to choose, but it's complete rethoric. Here's the article link. This just proves once again she'll stoop to whatever level she has too in order to get the Presidency. I don't know about NH, but here in Iowa we were just sick of the this. Obama and Edwards are "authentic". That's what WE caucused for, and by god it felt like taking a shower! Read this article and wake up and smell the coffee.

http://desmoines.mediacomtoday.com/community/news/story/index.php?source=Political&id=D8U00LOG0&pd=20080105

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tena, Oregon — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:39:43 GMT

Did anyone notice. . .
Edwards good on issue of fight against special interests. How Richardson looked at Hilary like “Yeah, right, is that true”? when Edwards first made the statement that he had never taken a dime from lobbyists or special interests. Not sure if it was in disbelief or for confirmation. How Barak used the other panelists answers simply reworded in his? Did anyone notice how Edwards was taking notes and basically ignoring parts of Richarsons responses? Was it because he doesn’t even consider him as competition?

I wasn’t very interested in any of the candiates prior to this, but Edwards turned me with his passion about lobbyists, going to bat for the middle class and showing an amazing amount of compassion and passion for his ideals. He had facts, not rhetoric. He had me at “Al Gore”!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rick Marts — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:40:10 GMT

I don't think there was a winner or loser in the debate, but it gave me a better look into why they want the job. I have a gut feel either Obama or Edwards can make the change happen we so desperately need. I read or heard somewhere recently that as a team no one in the Republican party could stand against them come election time. I don't think Hillary is electable and that really scares me.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Lee, Chicago, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:40:39 GMT

Clinton made a suggestion (via her likeability comment) that Obama was like Bush#2 in the sense that people liked him too and that America was ready to make the same mistake again, but I think the real issue for Clinton in this comparision is that Bush's mistake as a leader is not that he was likeable or lacked experience per se, but that he surrounded himself with people that wouldn't give, or were too afraid to, provide opposing views, which is exactly what Clinton would be like in her Whitehouse-i.e. NOT Good. Obama while he may not have the long resume (which I personally don't think should be make or break) he is more likely to surround himself with very smart advisors and given his thoughfulness and his perceived decision making capacity-lead us into a NEW Direction as the true agent of Change. I loved the Clintons in the 90's but it's time to turn the page, if they had left this country (and the Democratic Party) in better shape we would've elected a Democrat and NOT a Republican 7 years ago!

Go OBAMA

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Carol, Conroe, Texas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:44:36 GMT

This debate revealed that the Clinton era is SO OVER. Just like the Bush era is about to BE OVER.

It will be a celebration across this country when Bush is out of office FOR GOOD.

I believe Barack Obama is going to be our next President. When he delivered the keynote speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, I had never hear such an inspirational speech since the speeches of the 60's. The Kennedy boys had that same charisma that Barack Obama has. MLK had the same inspirational, moving qualities in his speeches. When Obama spoke, I remembered thinking in the back of my mind that he should run for President. It is TIME to end the same old crap going on in Washington and to hand the reigns over to someone else who is intelligent and articulate enough to make important decisions for our country and to do what is right for our country. I think Obama is ready and capable of the job.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Simon, IA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:46:39 GMT

Any Obama supporter out there:

Action is more important than words or words mean more than action?

So far all chickens have avoided answering the question. I am sure there are some knowledgeable Obama supporters in here.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mike Feeney, San Antonio Texas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:49:12 GMT

While I find Senator Obama an inspirational speaker, I fear that once he becomes the nominee and the media FINALLY look into his very shallow record we Democrats are going to have buyer’s remorse.

The Republicans won't hesitate in pointing out his missed votes, lack of foreign policy experience; plan to raise Social Security Taxes etc... etc... And they'll have 9 months to pound on him without the benefit of Senator Edwards throwing himself in front of the incoming criticism as he did tonight.

To be honest, I don’t know if Senator Clinton could have won the general election either but she would have given us a better shot.

My consolation is that I like both Senator McCain and Governor Huckabee and I believe one of them will be the Republican nominee and next President.

Mike D. Feeney
SMSgt, USAF Retired

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bob L. Philadelphia, PA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:49:18 GMT

So many good, passionate posts. But even political junkies in their 50's (me) are only now beginning to grasp how Obama has become the lightning rod for all the pent up anger in the electorate. We're just seeing now that he may the most popular leader in a generation: JFK 1960, Reagan 1980, Obama, 2008. A black man soundly beating Clinton & Edwards in 97% white Iowa is huge! And the speech he gave that night will only be forgotten if he gets to give`an Inauguration speech. There are so many logical reasons to vote for Hillary. She HAS been fighting the good fight for 35 years. She simply cannot erase her (small) part in the ugly divisiveness of the last 15 years. It's fine to consider her a victim of those years. This makes her an almost perfect foil for Obama's change/hope message (it's becoming clear that, in the absence of Obama, Edwards would have beat her - Iowa has a strong populist tradition). Her attempts to gloam herself onto the change theme so late in the game was a serious strategic mistake.

Do you know how long it's been since the pundit class has been so wrong - so shocked? Even they did not see how royally pissed voters are; they had become as complacent as the Clinton's and many others - including me. Of course we must wait for more primaries to know if this is the real deal. I think it is. This is not just about a change from the last seven years. Depending on your age it is however long it has been since you last got very, very excited that fundamental change in this country could truly happen.

For some of us that time was the day before Bobby Kennedy died. We've waited long enough.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jeff, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:49:33 GMT

Hillary did by far the best job - she had substantive responses instead of the p.r. fluff of Edwards or Obama. Edwards said it is "personal" too often and Obama continued the same boring platitudes about change blah blah - and also never responded to his lobbying bill which allows politicians to be fed by lobbyists if they are standing instead of sitting.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

anon in new hampshire — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:50:32 GMT

hillary won that debate as she has every one previous. misogyny plays a far bigger and more horrific role in this country than racism and one charismatic, young, inexperienced guy should not outweigh one smart and powerful woman. for some uneducated, sexist citizens of this country, unfortunately it does, but no matter -- come november real history will be made with the first female president. time for change!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bart Anderson, Manchester, New Hampshire — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:53:28 GMT

Hillary looked like tired old news. With her so called experience that she hails so often she might as well just say, "vote for me and I will employ the same old policies and methods that have gotten us nowhere". I am tired of politicians forcing fear down my throat. I want to feel hope again. I want to feel America again. This idependent is voting for OBAMA!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

tfh, Taos, NM — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 06:59:15 GMT

I support Edwards; I believe he is compassionate, intelligent, and has a vision. My second choice is Obama; I am not opposed to Hillary; she is simply my third choice. I believe the Democrats are phenominally lucky this election. Ya gotta love it!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bill, NY, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:02:53 GMT

One of the most frustrating things about this campaign has been feeling as if we've never been able to see the real Hillary. Finally, tonight we saw a crack in the carefully crafted HRC image--we finally saw the real person.

It wasn't a good sight, nor was it in the least presidential. Is she really ready to lead on Day 1? What happens the first time somebody disagrees with her? More of that?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Not Chicken in TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:04:40 GMT

Hey Simon from IA,

I would say Action is more important than words, yes I totally agree with you, but what's more important, is Accomplishment. Results. Which is why I thought it was funny watching Hillary attack Obama, and kept saying she's had 35 years of making change happen, but when pressed to talk about what change she's actually accomplished, she mentioned 2 items in actual detail. 35 years and 2 items? Obama had more his first year in the U.S. Senate. She just says she's done so much, and actually gave some numbers for once, but I don't think anybody thinks her saying 35 years and what she's accomplished directly correlate. Then throw in key blunders like voting for the Iraq war in that 35 years. This is a clear example of the difference between experience and judgement. Her inability to develop a coalition is the reason she hasn't brought about monumental change. She's been so busy calibrating and politicking w/people in a backroom instead of getting others involved, she hasn't developed the support and momentum to pass unique pieces of legislation that are big changes. Look at Obama's record in the Chicago State Senate, then in his brief time in the U.S. Senate. Do you want to know why he gets things done? Instead of shouting partisan barbs from one side of a cliff to the other where Republicans are, he builds a bridge. Both of them are trying to get the other side to go their way. They just employ different approaches.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Kevin Menear, Dartmouth, NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:07:24 GMT

Obama was great! I've been a pretty loyal Clinton supporter up until tonight but her outburst in response to Edwards' quips made me realize the worst of my fears about her personality. She is a great speaker and presents a calm, collected composure but I am worried that it is just skin deep. I am worried about her judgement and her composure in tense, passionate situations.

Edwards was good too, but I think I may vote for Obama in the primry on Tuesday.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

William — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:08:13 GMT

Once and for all on the "experience" question:

Obama hasn't been in Washington on the Foreign Affairs Committee for 25 years. True.

But, NOBODY has ever laid out a convincing argument as to why or how Hillary actually DOES have experience. When she was pressed to give details on what she's actually "changed" in those vaunted 35 years she always talks about, she settled on Healthcare in the Clinton administration. Wasn't that an abject failure? And that's what she points to?

Perhaps Obama doesn't have experience. But at least he doesn't try to claim he does without ANY real backup for the claim.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Matters — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:08:57 GMT

God it scares me to think we will have a Democrat version of George Bush!!! Give Obama some real experience and then run him but if the Dems nominate him two things will happen:

1. He will lose the general when he gets vetted by the not so friendly Republicans. When they show how little governmental experience he has those independents and Republicans will wish for Hillary. This election was the Dems to lose and I think they will and hope they will if he is the nominee, will support Hillary over all Republicans. I am a registered Republican.

2. He will be elected and Washington will eat him alive and we will go another 5 for 7, or worse, Republican presidents to Democratic. There is a reason that Republicans usually get the nod, EXPERIENCE!!! Why Gore lost, well that is another article.

What happens if god forbid the economy collapses and Iraq, which is getting bad again, falls apart? Are you telling me that people would rather have an inexperienced 46 year old or some very experienced war hero, if it is McCain. I can not think that we are that naive. I know the young have that quality but they will be forced to think it through for the next 11 months. I know the Dems will lose my support if he is the nominee. I crossed over the last couple times only to be defeated but at least the nominees were very experienced. I know all the people want to jump on the bandwagon but this is for the nomination and not the general.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

William — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:10:45 GMT

First Read: It was NOT ganging up. Don't perpetuate the Clinton spin.

Edwards and Obama have FUNDAMENTAL differences with her on the lobbyist money question. Why shouldn't they point out that her $100 million comes from lobbyists and theirs does not?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mark Thieme — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:10:51 GMT

I have to laugh when I see who is not online here tonight.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Marne D, Montana — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:12:29 GMT

Are there any women out there like me who can't stand Hillary Clinton? I am very put off by her speaking style, personality, and the fact she thinks people who support change are naive? PLEASE! Her performance in the debate tonight was pitiful. America needs a fresh start, and putting a Clinton in the White House is hardly new. I like Obama because I believe he hasn't been tainted by the crap going on in Washington and he also is very intelligent. Unlike our current president, who can barely put together a sentence in english. Obama is very inpsiring and I can't wait until he brings about unity and change in our country!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Portia, Council Bluffs IA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:13:36 GMT

If all the change Clinton can come up with is "vote for me because I'm a woman," she has another thing coming. Obviously she doesn't get that voting for 3 of the 4 democrats would be a change according to her standards but then maybe she is color blind or she thinks being a woman is more substantial than being a different race. I’m glad Obama and Richardson aren’t that shallow. Either way I hope she stays behind, it is entertaining!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M Myers, TN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:23:28 GMT

Edwards, clearly won tonight - I don't know, I have mixed emotions about where Hillary and Barack stand -- I'm completely in support of Obama, I can not be swayed -- BUT, being a woman, I didn't care for the way Edwards went after Hillary, probably because I thought Edwards was full of a bunch of hooey in 2004 and I still think he's full of it, so this weird strategy he has to put a stake through the heart of the Clinton's, makes me want to take a shower, not because what he's saying about Hillary isn't true, but it appears to me that he'll do and say anything to live another day and it's obvious -- so when Hillary mildly lost it, I kind of gave it a pass. I think she did two things, although they weren't executed perfectly, she tried to attack Obama on campaign promises he did not deliver on AND appeal to emotions with the 'that hurts my feelings' comment. I think it kind of worked for her, at least in my household, we all began to feel sorry for her ... and I briefly thought, maybe I don't want to seal the deal quite yet, just because I'll miss her acerbic nature, the woman and candidate everyone loves to hate, realizing momentarily that this woman has walked through a world of crap to get here... if you just think about all of the disappointments she must have had just in the last 15 years, you can almost understand why she just seems so cold -- of course, those feelings were short lived and I'm back to my normal level of Hillary disdain.

I don't think Obama had a great night, neither did I expect him to -- he looked dog tired and I hope he went directly from that studio to a waiting pillow. I think everyone knows debates aren't his cup of tea -- all he needed to do was hold the fort, which he did...so there.

All in all, even though I didn't care for Edwards' attacks or his strategy, I would have to say he definitely had the most passion, was the most bright eyed and bushy tailed candidate up there -- and if you hadn't been paying attention to how Edwards has hee-ed and haw-ed over the last five years, he was almost believable in a used car salesman kind of way.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ryan — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:23:29 GMT

I'm confused how having 4 more years in the Senate makes Clinton so much more experienced than Obama. Beyond the Senate, she has some policy experience in her unelected role as first lady and he has some policy experience as a state senator. I think it's a wash and I wish Obama or Edwards would point out that Clinton is full of hot air with her exaggerated claims of experience. I thought Edwards did the best job in the debate tonight, but I'm staying with Obama.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tricia Leeman — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:27:03 GMT

Hillary angry..............just what the USA needs..........an emotional menopausal screeching woman!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Eric Weigh, Fresno, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:30:54 GMT

What has Barack Obama done, for crying out loud, to convincingly and irrefutably demonstrate that he is the bona fide "agent of change"? From his tenures as a city council man and a state senator to a short stint at US senate, has he done anything to promote, facilitate and, more importantly, institute and accomplish the CHANGE???? Come on, he's been merely a member of the various "debating clubs" all these years, albeit an oratory and demogagueing one. Has he changed the dirty politics rampant in Chicago? Ironically, the notorious ballot-box-stuffing Chicago Daley gang actually endorses him and works for his campaign. Has he changed the quid pro quo politics as usual in his shady real estate dealings w/ a crimincally implicated Arab businessman? has he changed the race relationship for the better by ignoring his white side of family who was instrumental in what and where he is today and by joining an African-separatist-themed church for a while? The unwarranted and undeserved infatuation w/ Barack Obama by the press and ignorant electorates is simply ignoring the elephant in the living room, or more pertinently, is ignoring some serious B.O. in a packed and unventilated room.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Martin Edwin "Mick" Andersen — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:38:22 GMT

Some headlines about Barack Obama from around the world:

"Sometimes miracles do happen" -- Jamaica Observer

"Obama's rise, America's renewal" -- Toronto Globe and Mail

"UK politicians should listen to Obama’s message of change" -- Sunday Herald

"Obama-mania in New Hampshire as new poll shocks Clinton camp" -- Independent (UK)

"Panicked Hillary is tempted to turn dirty" -- Times Online (UK) Also ... "Obama bursts out as the liberal Reagan who can reunite America"

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Lady Eagle, Wellington, FL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:43:16 GMT

Great job for all the debaters tonight! Looks like Mrs. Clinton does best when her back is against the wall. I admire her spunk. After tonight I believe that she is the one that will fight for everyone, including the middle class.
Her spirited answers enabled folks to see her human side.

Politics is one of the only places where 0.28% is not considered a statistical dead heat, but a strong second to Obama. Truth be told if it were a straight one person one vote, Clinton would have been second, Edwards third and Biden would still be in the race.

No matter how he spins it, Edwards is on life support. No matter what happens in New Hampshire, both Clinton and Obama can go until February fifth.

Isn't it a bit disengenuos that his former campaign manager is running the 527 that he claims to have no control over?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Carole Olson, Providence, RI — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:45:09 GMT

I am sooooo sick of the way Hillary is treated. She is held to a different standard and all women should unite to elect her. Why ? She is the most articulate, informed and has a proven track record. If one more person reminds me of Obama's war vote I would remind them that he wasn't in the senate to vote. How do you know how he would have voted under those conditions?
I think the media is so anti- Hillary that they have annointed Obama and given him a free ride with no scrutiny. I am a professional women and I am so discouraged by the way she has been maligned. If Hillary defends herself the commentators are quick to judge her. The male candidates can gang up on her and that is ok, but when she responds she can't do anything right. She is too hostile, strident, angry or defensive. What a sad commentary on the equality of women in this country.

I think Obama is a decent man and may make a good president in the future. Hillary is what we need now.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Eric — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:45:34 GMT

Obama's Record:
*Worked for Business International Corporation (now The Economist Intelligence Unit)
*Worked for New York Public Interest Research Group
*Community Organizer in Chicago (this I think is important in understanding how Obama gets people motivated)
*Taught Constitutional Law for 11 years
*Attorney representing community organizers, discrimination claims, and voting rights cases
*Directed voter registration drives
*Illinois State Legislature for 10 years
*Senator for 4 years.

These people are not gods. We all live short lives and Obama has done some solid things with his for a presidential candidate. As far as Hillary's experience goes, I hope that people will remember how old Bill was when he was elected. She should not be attacking Obama. (Bill was a year younger than Obama when he was elected). This whole "experience" line Hillary is giving is illegitimate. This is how Divine Right develops. Only the people in Washington can be in Washington. Only the people with wealth can handle wealth. Can you see it? I think we should be very careful.

Moreover, if you asked me, Obama has a lot more "experience" than some of the lame brains we have in office. Ala Arnold and Reagan (seriousely an acting career, some political views, and then 8 yrs as California governor. Where's the community organizer, President of the Harvard Law Review, expert on Constitutional Law...?). Everything Obama has done has been very much populist.

Do we want a leader like Hillary who would distort Obama's image so much, and forget the same husband that is talking for her in many places. What kind of image will she paint of her enemies abroad? What sort of public opinions will she inspire in the body politic? Those of community organizer (we all have humble beginings)? Or of a first lady?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Pete, Chicago, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:46:14 GMT

Just asking, how experienced is Hillary really? If we're looking for the candidate of experience, shouldn't we look to Richardson (or Biden/Dodd before they dropped out)? It's very hard to assess exactly what experience (and how much) Hillary got as first lady. Does she have any foreign policy experience? It's fair to say she has a bit more general experience than Obama and Edwards, but to call her the Candidate of Experience is a bit much.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Joe Shmo, Houston, Texas — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:47:45 GMT

Please people listen to me. Hillary has a point. Actions are stronger than words. She has really done a lot for change. If you look at her campaign a year ago her first campaign message was change "Are you ready for change in America!" Remember when she said that. Obama stole it. This woman has substance. In my opinion, her commenting on Edwards needed to happen. All of you that are voting for Obama refuse to see the change that she has accomplished because you just "don't like her." You just do not vote for someone because you "like them," you vote for what they can make happen for your country. She has been tested and she has delivered. Man if I had done all of what she had done and if I had been on that stage I would have lost it. She did not loose it-she got her message across. Obama has a pharmaceutical lobbyist and no one talks about that, why? Because "I like him." Why does likability win over substance? I feel sorry for those of you voting for Obama and not Hillary because you guys clearly did not look deep enough into this woman's life. I feel Obama can not win the general because the attack he will get from Republicans on illegal immigration. Sorry that's what they are going to do. Illegal immigration is a 60 40 issue. You Democrats need to wake up and smell the coffee. If Obama gets this nomination I will for sure call Democrats stupid and I will turn republican. If there is anyone that can hear me-please wake up. Just wake up! That does not mean to loose hope-we need a warrior-Hillary!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

HT, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:50:14 GMT

I've never really understood Clinton's experience argument. On January 20, 1993, the Democratic party had control of both houses of Congress as well as the White House. Think about this: when they left, they lost it all, handing the White House to Bush despite a most impressive economic record.

Arguably, her most significant contribution to the Clinton administration was what swept the Republicans into the House--not exactly an easy thing to do when you factor in congressional gerrymandering.

As a US senator, on the most salient issue of our time, she voted to go into Iraq--and yet still in 2008, she won't admit that the vote was a mistake). And don't get me started on her Iran vote.

Obama: he's definitely got less experience than I'd like. But I look at Iowa and his victory speech. I've been following US politics for two decades now, and I've gotten pretty cynical. But that speech, all I can say is, "Wow!"

Besides the speech, look at the coalition that Obama was able to bring together in Iowa--not just among Democrats but with Independents and even some Republicans.

Listening to Clinton tonight, I thought she did very well, probably better than Obama--at least at first glance. However, we all know what we're going to get if Clinton becomes President: more of the same ugly politics that turned me off to politics in the first place. And I seriously doubt that Clinton can put together a broad enough coalition to pass anything sweeping in her administration; endeavors of any great import will fall by the wayside just like her healthcare initiative. She's simply just too polarizing to build the kind of coalition that would be needed. And we'll be back to the same bickering and sniping, and nothing gets done.

Granted, Obama, like Bush, doesn't have the lengthy resume. However, unlike Bush, he is smart, articulate, and really does seem to know how to unite us. Will he, as President, make mistakes? Almost certainly. But, after 16 years of listening to the Clinton-Republican back and forth, and looking at Obama's ability to sway people without resorting to vitriol, I'd have to go with Obama this year.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jake Myers, Eagle River AK — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:51:54 GMT

Obama and Edwards absolutely ROCKED. As for HRC, her tired old line of the 35 years of blah, blah, blah was making the audience yawn in boredom. Richardson was good, but reminded me of Rodney Dangerfield when he used to ask if he could "just get some respect".

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Josh Light, Portland, OR — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:54:15 GMT

You all seem to forget the small matter of electability. Do you really think Obama has any chance of getting elected President?

Regardless of who is nominated on the Republican side, do you really believe America votes for this untested, inexperienced, very young, half African-American, 1st-time Senator? Uhh... "President Barrack Hussein Obama"? If you believe that, dream on.

The net result of an Obama nomination will be another Republican President. I can only hope that it won't be Huckabee. McCain or Romney I can live with.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

frederick Mugul — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 07:55:01 GMT

Edward performed best, not he is running for president though....he seems to hide himself behind Obama or associate himself with him in many ways...Remember the speech after his los in Iowa?
I guess for him VP is good enough.....I wish I could see hime debate Obama...just the 2 of them..

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Martin Edwin "Mick" Andersen — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:06:23 GMT

Re: Hillary Clinton

"Corruptio optimi quae est pessima," or, the corruption of the best is the worst (Ivan Illich).

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Christine Trotman, Atlanta, GA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:11:56 GMT

Come on. Hillary won the debate. She fought back as she should. I think women will be offended by the tag-team. It was cheap. She was more knowledgeable and assertive. Women who are assertive get accused of being angry and cold. The key: It takes experience to bring about real change. I'm going with experience. We need someone who can produce change, not merely hope for change. The truth is that Hillary has taken more attacks than any candidate. And the fact the she is still in it is amazing. It shows resolved strength. That is indeed presidential. She got my vote!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

shark — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:15:34 GMT

I'm not sure which debates you guys were watching but HIllary won this hands down. Her breadth and depth of knowledge re foreign policy was a shark contrast to Obama's and Edwards. She is articulate, doesn't stutter and has a vast command of facts.

Edwards could not demonstrate one accomplishment he achieve in the senate. He was exposed as a half-truther.

Obama to me is a flip flopper and I left the debate wondering why he didn't give a cogent answer as to why he has paid lobbyists on his campaign. What do he think that they are working for him for? He has stated that no lobbyists will be working for him in the White house. Ok, they're good to work on the campaign but not the white house. I smell the fresh sense of hypocrisy. His stance on health care has evolved and no one can say that she has never stood for UHC in her life.

Regarding her 'melt down', I don't see it even though sexist men and the MSM will try to create a story regarding this. If someone was distorting my record and double teaming on me, you betcha I would set the story straight and it would be a passionate response.

Obama's gratuitous line to Hillary of " I like you enough' rubbed me the wrong way. How disrespectful.

I don't expect Hillary to win NH, as there is not enough time but darn it, the MSM needs to do their jobs and vet Obama.

My paster has a favorite saying which I have incorporated, 'Faith without works is dead'. This is a great argument against lofty talks of change and feel good talk. I would probably stake my tent with someone who has been tested and has actually stood for something. Her vote on Kyl-Leiberman may not be popular with liberal dems but at least she showed up and took a stand.

I think she acquitted herself fine and she didn't have a meltdown.

I still don't know of one issue that Edwards accomplished or was known for during his 6 years in the senate....

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:18:32 GMT

she has been attacked tenfold more than the rest, and has actually had to explain and defend her record. at least we know enough about her to make a decision. the rest is a gamble. edwards and obama answered every question the same: I'm going to change washington, involve the people, etc. I fight special interests, etc. thats clearly all they have to say with not much to back it.

I found Hillary Clinton's heated rebuttle refreshing, and the only one who didn't seem to be pandering and pushing what she thought people wanted to hear.

I was undecided before tonight. Now I will be voting for ms clinton.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sean Barnacoat, Townsend, MA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:21:43 GMT

We hear in New England should know better than to vote for Barack Obama. Look at Governor Deval Patrick. He's an "empty suit"... He ran a campaign on hope and optimism, but had no specifics and no experience to back it up. Seriously, where's the beef? Deval hasn't changed the "politics as usual"... he's been eaten alive by the democratic power brokers on Beacon Hill. The same will happen to Barack Obama. Where's the beef? A nice idealistic slogan wont produce real change in this country. We need someone like Hillary who's been around the block, knows how the game is played, and can actually accomplish things. PLEASE, democrats, don't let your heart overrule your head. Obama is full of empty promises and will leave you disappointed.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Janee — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:26:08 GMT

Hillary was clearly the leader and clearly the most Presidential. Sometimes when you make a point, one must be direct and firm. If a man had argued her same point, no one would have blinked or referred to them in a mysogynistic manner. Wake up people! Hillary IS change.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Carolina, Wilmington, De — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:28:57 GMT

Thank God for Hillary Clinton. She did great tonight. Just what I want in a president, strong, intelligent,cares about the average American, knows her issues back and forth, will get us out of Iraq and protect us from terrorists and has a strong idea on day one how to take back our country.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Chad, Effingham, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:30:11 GMT

Can someone really explain to me what "change" Billary claims she brought in "35 years"? Health care? Nope...Saving thousands in Rwanda? Nope How about bombing Iraq? Bingo oh wait thats not change skip that. Voting for George W. to invade Iraq? yes darnit wrong again. This is tough! My thought is simple. This country was founded on meritocracy not aristocracy Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton sounds like a bad Saudi dictatorship. I will feel much better if Obama or Edwards 2 hardworking middle to lower class people become president! Viva Obama!!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tim Tatum, Richmond, Virginia — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:30:54 GMT

This is bizarre. No one is willing to give anyone named Clinton any credit for anything. Did you guys miss the 90s? If so read Greenspan's book. Did you have a problem with the longest economic expansion in US histiory? ...too many jobs?

My guess is liberals think she's too conservative and conservatives believe the right-wing media hype.

She'll make an excellent president. She's and McCain are the only one capable of doing the job. With Hillary there's the bonus of giving Republicans another 4 years to investigate Whitewater.

This guys voting for and donating to Hillary or McCain. If neither one's on the ballot I'm writing in Hillary.

She is not getting a fair shake!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

mnjam — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:32:35 GMT

I was impressed by all four candidates. I'd be happy to vote for any of them in the general election and look forward to voting for one of them.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Carolina, Wilmington, De — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:33:30 GMT

I was just e mailed 2 articles where Obama insulted Al Gore and John Kerry. How dare he. But it shouldn't surprise me for someone following in his realtives George Bushs and Dik Cheneys footsteps.
Bush said during his first campaign Washington politicans can not be trusted to fix Americans problems. So elect me George Bush. Obama has said the same thing. Neither had or has any idea what their talking about.
Inexperince has gotten thousands of brave soliders dead in Iraq and no way out. And inexperience cost hundreds of New Orleans their lives.
And Obama is a politican who has burned bridges and played games to become the Senator he is today. And Obama declares himself Mr. Clean. How do you think he got the money to run his campaign?
Being a politican makes you dirty in the first place. Favors for political contribtions goes back to George Washington. There is no Mr. Clean politican out there, only a con job on the American people. Voters do your research. The only politican above it, is a politican that you have never heard of.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

P. Virilio — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:35:36 GMT

I doubt the debate will have the results pundits predicted. I didn't see a clear winner, and the majority of the posts on this blog confirm my suspicion that people are merely singling out aspects of the debate that favor their chosen candidate. In fact, some of the posts have a whiff of "paid political operative" about them, resembling the selective posting of favorable debate commentary on the respective candidate websites.

In my view, Hillary's response to the so-called "double-teaming" was not "angry" or "shrill," but rather an impassioned response on the order of what Edwards accomplished tonight (the only difference, of course, was that it was a response to criticism rather than an unalloyed statement of position). I also think that it was the only politically sensible response given the media's obvious investment in the narrative of a "horse race" with "exciting" back-and-forth action. Hillary needed to show that she was willing to fight and that's exactly what she did.

For the record, I'm backing another of the Democratic candidates, but I'm not going to let my preference skew my reading of the debate so much that I start to sound like a reporter for TMZ.com. If Hillary should win the nomination, I'll vote for her whatever my preference, and I'm surely not going to get drawn into the very right-wing Hillary-bashing, which ultimately does no Democrat any good, not to mention the country.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

ObamaMama, Cedar Rapids IA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:37:59 GMT

Kaye,Southport, NC:Once again, Obama seems to float above the fighting in the "pit". Is it just me, or is it because he is always looking above and beyond to the BIG PICTURE?

I believe this is because he is running his campaign with a motto of "Respect, empower and include" and a side of "No negativity unless u are hit with negativity first." Im sorry but HRC going negative isnt really helping her (from those in NH that Ive talked too)

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

D.J, Iowa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:38:41 GMT

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/01/obama_borrows_f.html

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

D.J, Iowa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:41:25 GMT

OBAMA is a FAKE.....he's been riding on Edwards Stump http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/01/obama_borrows_f.html
and this article didnt even begin to account for all of them..... i am sure it will become a matter for the DNC to bring plagiarism charges against him ....GO EDWARDS!!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Dawn — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:46:49 GMT

Somebody--ANYBODY--please exlain to me how it is a gang up when you're defending yourself??? Hillary Clinton went on the attack against Barack Obama. He merely defened himself, with Edward's help, and they are attacking her????

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Gerald, Poughkeepsie, New York — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:48:15 GMT

People need to lighten up on Hillary. When you get to
a certain age, the hormones take over.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rebecca, Las Vegas NV — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:52:40 GMT

When Hilary played the gender card, it made her look absolutely ridiculous - even more so, when no one made the obvious comment that the first black man would be the embodiment of change as well. It was like, are you blind, woman? It made her look totally self-absorbed, as though she's not really aware of anything outside her own narrow focus...which is probably true.

You know, so many people who have met them in person talk about Obama's sincerity and Hilary's coldness. I truly believe that Obama's main focus is what he can achieve and Hilary's main focus is how much power she can grab. And I wouldn't be at all surprised to find out that payback is high up on the things she wants to accomplish if she wins.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Cindy, Wilmington, De — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 08:55:12 GMT

I am shocked and stunned by the large amount of Obama supporters who say "electibility" is not a big factor when voting for a candidate. Wake up young people of America, "electibility" means your President. Or is it that you know he will never be elected and the sole reason you voted for him is that you could care less who is President. You just wanted to make a point. Your setting Obama up to be blown away by any Republican. He has no idea how vivoius they are.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Aware, Hilo, Hawaii — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:02:00 GMT

The Dems

I was amazed at how shallow Edwards and Obama were in some of their responses. Their foreign policy answers seemed uninformed and not thought through. Richardson was quite funny in his rambling way, and Hillary got it right - Obama has had a free pass on scrutiny, and he really needed Edwards as a buffer in this debate. The young bucks really like to gang up on Hillary. She can hold her own though! Also, Obama was quite peevish in his "likability" comment. I guess he wanted it all - experience and likability kudos. :) The Edwards diatribe and the Obama platitudes are getting tiresome. Thank heavens for a bit of humor from Richardson and Hillary.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mike, Reno, Nev. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:04:57 GMT

What a poor performance by Clinton tonight... Clearly whatever "change" she gave herself credit for hasn't done the country any good in the last eight years. She is a truly poor candidate and it is unfortunate that so many of her volunteers can't see that you shouldn't vote for someone just because of gender.

Obama was the clear winner, and Edwards had a nice showing as well.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Peter, San Francisco, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:06:16 GMT

Oh, Sebastion, give us a break. Next time you try to pose as an undecided, try to avoid using the Clinton campaign's talking points word for word, okay?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M Banks, Miami, Fl — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:07:49 GMT

Clearly Hillary was touchy and upset at Edwards' mention of her achilles heal; being touted as the status quo candidate. But really, why didn't she have a more prepared response? She had to have known that that tactic would continue to surface; and even if she won the Dem nod, with slips like that, I don't see her going much further. Even if I am sold on her "experience" mantra, if how she is running her campaign is at all representative on how she will be run her presidential office, I am truly concerned. Her leadership is flawed, she has shown throughout her campaign to be completely reactive. Barack and Edwards on the other hand, have been primarily proactive; which is a trait most Americans admire. I can see that Obama looks and acts like the leader of the United States should, that is why Republicans and Dem's are falling over themselves to pattern to themselves after him. Typical political pandering, I am so sick of it. Whoever wins, please bring back some dignity to the oval office.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Carolina, Wilmington, De — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:09:22 GMT

Listen up Obama supporters: We have never had a woman president. That is the biggest change of all.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Leye, Richmond, Va — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:33:55 GMT

A lot of people here are saying a whole lot of BS. So you mean she should not defend herself. I must admit, Edwards was dumb with the strategy he pulled today. Does he think that he will be able to turn the races to just between him and Obama? He must be dreaming.

You guys must realize something - you cant wish for change. You have to work for it. The country is about to make the same mistake the country made by voting for Bush.

How can you claim she was angry? Angry? Puleeze. She had to defend herself and her point got in clear. Did you notice that Edwards did not attack her again after she stood her ground?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Walter, Arlington, TX — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:34:59 GMT

Simon IA, Words can move mountains, if they are coming out of the right mouth

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Gary Hodges, Mesa, AZ — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 09:58:50 GMT

I agree with the consensus: Clinton's flash of anger in response to Edwards was - by normally dull debate standards - a bit shocking.

My impression was that Edwards was campaigning to be Obama's VP and Richardson was campaigning to be Clinton's. And yet, both Edwards and Richardson came off best, in my opinion.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

David Young — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:01:36 GMT

Hillary says words don't matter. You could drive a Mack truck through that opening. Look for this to become part of Obama's stump speech.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Sam W., NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:10:28 GMT

All along I have been saying Edwards keeps Clinton from surpassing Obama and now that seems even more obvious. Clinton couldn't even win Iowa which is 98% percent white and filled with people she was supposed to appeal to. Let's face it this race is between Obama and Edwards.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Carolina, Wilmington, De — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:15:49 GMT

Hillary won tonight, hands down. Obama looked week and uninformed about the issues. SHOCKING! And Edwards was Obamas attack dog. Interesting move by Edwards going for the VP position so early in the race. I thought he was a better man than that.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Rita, Cleveland, Oh. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:23:21 GMT

Actions do speak louder than words. Hillary's action - vote that authorized war in Iraq.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Isaac, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:48:21 GMT

The pattern of Al'qhaida is to take action when a new novice leader or president takes hold in an enemy country. They base this on the inability of a new weak leader to be confused and take time to react. It happened in Spain, Israel and Great Britain. Watch what happens if someone inexperienced like Obama walks into the White House. I am voting for security and experience. I want a CEO who knows what he/she is doing to run the business of this country in all its aspects. I am reminded of Margaret Thacher and Indira Ghandi. Any American who has his/her head on their shoulder should seriously consider bringing experience into the white House above all else. This is not the American Idol Contest of likability and voice. This is running this great country.
America, if you use all your grey cells when voting, then HILLARY is your choice.If you don't use all your grey cells, God Help Us. Incidently,I am a registered Republican

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jack Greenfield, In — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 10:58:48 GMT

Christine Flint said(It seems important in this race that the candidates for the Democratic slot insist that Clinton define her "30 years of experience." I have to assume that most of those years are those where she was married to Bill Clinton..........does that really count as experience!?)

Her experience is putting up with Slick Willie and his wondering eye.

I liked Bill as President but Hillary cannot claim experience as being married to the man in charge.

Who takes the most money from health care, defense contractors and pharmaceutical companies?

Has anyone stopped and thought about how much lobbyists contribute to the cost of services/products? Someone has to pay for the millions spent to line a politicians pocket and it is US the american people who get it in the end every time.

Hillary insulted the voters of Iowa saying they really don't matter. Will she use the same line when she gets her head handed to her on Tuesday?

HOPE is what we need, we sure haven't had it for the last seven years.

Kennedy spoke of hope and the greatness that America can achieve and we need that now more than ever.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Cindy, Wilmington, De — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 11:11:28 GMT

I just read about what happened at the 100 Club Dinner. I am STUNNED. I have been to two of these events in the past and DEMS do not act the way Obamas bussed in young people did. First of all, you need a ticket to get in and I read where these kids were at the door trying to get in without a ticket. The guys at the door told them they needed a ticket and from what people who were at the event said, they cursed and screamed and stormed in. A lady sitting at a center table said it was like a mob came to town. Senator Clinton was speaking and they went to the middle of the room crowding the tables and the people sitting there and starting booing her. Also, screaming Obamas name and wildly waving their Obama signs in the air. This is always a love feast for all the DEMS running. There is applause but never have I ever seen booing. Usually, there is a deep respect for everyone running for office. The Jefferson Jackson dinner is the exact same way. My husband and I went to one just a few months back with Joe Biden. Everyone was so happy for Joe. No booing or hatefulness. Those kids were plants from Obamas campaign and we do not do that to other Democrats. This is a dirty trick. I wonder what else Obama has up his sleeve? Another George Bush. Wake up America.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

AS, Switzerland — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 11:31:23 GMT

Hillary is so artificial. She acted cool in previous debates. Now the truth has come out when she is trailing.
She is no BILL CLINTON... why do we even consider her for prez... go Barack go!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John Klotz — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 11:32:56 GMT

Last night the debate competed with the NFL playoffs. That Washington (lost) may be an omen. But, I think one football analogy may be appropriate.

There are coaches who know the game and all of its intricacies in great detail and who can draw remarkable plays on a blackboard using "X" and "O" representing players.

But they fail to inspire and lose. They are often called Xs and Os guys.

I think Hillary is the ultimate Xs and Os candidate. She is an extremely impressive discussing the details and fine points of policy. But the Presidency is more than Xs and Os. The successful Presidents are those who go beyond the details and inspire - and surround themselves with able advisers.

Three primary examples from were Reagan, JFK and FDR.

Reagan did not inspire me, but he certainly inspired the Right. FDR surrounded himself with able men and women, but what lifted America were his words. The same was true of JFK.

Frankly, I'm more into Edwards than Obama but the one thing that Obama said that was dead-on was that "words count." More than his military strategy, Lincoln won the war and defined America by his words. The Gettysburg address and the Declaration of Independence are burned into our national psyche and they are nothing but words.

Hillary is a brilliant woman, but she is so lost in the details of policy that she never developed the ability to inspire through words.

Given the national doldrums we are in, we need a President who can, first of all, inspire.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

bret, seattle, wa — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 11:50:53 GMT

finally, a debate of some substance. i think the candidates were really given chances to display their character, their ideas, and most of all, the reasons behind their ideas (ie the whole health care differences between obama and hillary). i thought edwards did quite well, obama was excellent ("actually hillary, i think AP was quoting your guys..." great line), richardson had a strong showing, and hillary appeared tough...a bit too tough. she definitely showed some anger and came off, to me at least, as a bit whiny. "i have to be your president! me! me! me!" was her pitch, done through sore and negative attacks on obama. and then obama would just... explain himself. well too. so she really gave him a chance to be like "look, i know what i'm doing. this is why" instead of hillary touting her ideas. that was dumb of her.

obama '08

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

k, libertyville, IL — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 11:51:54 GMT

Chuck Todd - you are political genius. Keep up the good work! Go Obama '08.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

SEAN, PINOLE, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:03:43 GMT

HILLARY THINKS ACTIONS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN WORDS, BUT IF THE WORDS INSPIRE ACTIONS OF MILLIONS, THAN THEY TRUMP ANY ACTION OF ONE MAN OR WOMAN. JFK HAD NO EXPIERENCE WITH ROCKET SCIENCE, NEVER WORKED AT NASA, BUT IN 1961 INSIRED THE NATION TO PUT A MAN ON THE MOON. NOT IN 20 OR 30 YEARS, BUT IN 9 YEARS. JUST THINK, LESS THAN 4 YEARS EARLIER THE USSR SHOCK THE WORLD BY LAUNCHING SPUTNIK.

I'D PUT THAT IN THE AUDACITY OF HOPE COLUMN.

OBAMA '08

AND YES EDWARDS WOULD BE AN EXCELLENT VP. OR A.G.?

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Mark Verstraete — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:09:27 GMT

Obama frames his responses after some thought. It is that process which makes me bekieve if he wins the Presidential election he will surround himself with strong people who will offer solid advice which is what is needed.
Hillary brought out what I think is her weakest attribute. She showed that mean spirt that was visible back in 92 when she was on the Health Care issue then. It is an attribute that does not boad well for change, unity, or any bi-partisan form of governing which has historically brought out the best in American government and World Leadership.
Bill Richardson presented himself as the best case for experience whith out tearing down hope and change.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

US Citizen — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:15:54 GMT

No doubt in my mind an Obama/Edwards ticket could energize Americans with an awesome future at home and abroad. Exactly what this country needs, to clean up
Politics, the White House and Congress to represent a government of, by and for the people. Back to Basics 101, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ralph, Mexico, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:43:37 GMT

I don’t get the pundits infatuation with Edwards. If they actually listened to what the man was saying it was a repetition of “I’m a fighter”. If you look at his record, he is a trial lawyer who made bucket loads of money, served 6 years in the Senate, (if you will recall from the 2004 election) didn’t show up to many key meetings and has been running for President ever since. His only function is to make Senator Obama look good in comparison.

The story they are not reporting should be looking back at the 2000 republican primary. John McCain won big in New Hampshire because the democrats were less than thrilled with the two gentlemen running and John McCain drew heavily on Independents. Since most all of the subsequent primaries allow only registered republicans or democrats to vote it was not a huge surprise that McCain faltered. Since Obama won Iowa thanks in large part to disaffected republicans and independents and seems to be polling quite well amongst these groups in New Hampshire, it might be interesting to see reporting on how he is doing with registered democrats since 2/3rds of them will be casting votes on February 5th.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Robert, Grand Junction CO — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:49:59 GMT

This is to Alex of Los Angeles.

I agree with your reasoning. Those scuff-marked, battle-worthy insiders who have toed the line in the past and learned the ropes and rewards of compromise are more apt to get things done that any newcomer (e.g. LBJ).

But there is also something else to consider. When someone has a long history of excoriating the right for its intrigues and character assassinations, when more than half of someone's experience is simply being the wife of a president with nothing to show for it but a mangled healthcare policy whose detriments we are still overcoming, when someone is such a polarizing force to the opposition (who even last night spoke of her intention to "fight the Republicans"), that it bodes only of another 4 years of gridlock---well, then its time for something new.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

ST Charlottesville, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:53:28 GMT

As they say, it is in the eye of the beholder. If you were leaning towards Hillary, then she "won" the debate. The same is true for the other candidates. The only people that matter are the voters. The recent polls released this morning show Obama up by two points after being down by 5-12 points as recently as 3-4 days ago. I guess we know who the NH voters think won the debate.

As far as Hillary's "experience" goes-- I don't think being first lady involves that many critical management decisions. Maybe we should all get behind Laura Bush as she has these 8 years of experience as well. She has been in the senate 4 years longer than Obama. If the totality of her arguement is that she has these 4 extra years of experience and so she is the best choice seems pretty weak. And what was Obama doing during this time? Organizing voter registration drives, being a civil rights lawyer and teaching constitutional law and being an Illinois state senator putting working families at the top of his agenda. As if his experiences are somehow not important compared to Hillary's vast experience of 4 senate years.
Did anyone hear that sound at the end of the Democratic debate? That's right, it was death knell of Hillary's political career.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jackie — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:14:33 GMT

What Obama says isn't necessarily what he will do.. You've got to think about the time when the Clinton's were in power, and all the change that was done. Anyone can say anything, but it takes someone to make a change. Maybe later, but not now! Of course everyone will be thinking about the Health care plan that Hillary tried ages ago, but you've got to know that that was the past, everyone makes mistakes and i think that since she's already made that mistake, she'll know what she did wrong and it'll work this time. She's experienced and understanding of the needs of the American people, she deserves to be President. All that stuff Obama says, everyone will say because they want to be elected. This is different, for Hillary this has happened before.. Everyone who's voting for Obama is just plain ignorant of the fact that America was doing so well with the Clinton's in office. They need to get over the fact that Obama is a guy who speaks a lot but doesn't do anything. why give over america to an unexperienced man who has no idea how to make america a better country. Experience is a priority, and with Clinton on board, its already obvious how well America will be. So vote for Clinton.. because she would make the best President, and all you Americans already know that but are looking for something better... don't let OBama give you false hope!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jackie, Phoenix, Az — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:21:38 GMT

Very BAD news for Hillary from focus group in N.H.

http://reformedchicksblabbing.blogspot.com/2008/01/frank-luntzs-focus-group-does-not-have.html

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Amy K., Eagle, WI — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:35:08 GMT

Point 1: After watching the 6 Republican old white guys go at it, the 4 Democrats were a breath of fresh air. The truth is that any one of them would be a better president than W or any of the Republican candidates. They are all bright and talented in their own ways. Period.

Point 2: That being said, on 5/25/61, JFK committed this nation to landing "a man" on the moon by 1970. At that point, the collective US experience with human space flight was...almost none. But JFK inspired a country and committed the nation's resources to achieving that goal, and we did it - arguably, one of the greatest accomplishments in human history, and it didn't involve killing anyone or taking over their country. And kids all over the country studied their math and science harder!

I, personally, would like this country to get inspired to something great again, to give kids (and adults!) a reason to work hard to achieve a collective goal as Americans.

Obama's the one.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Julius Gordon Douglaston, NY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:38:03 GMT

All four Democratic Debaters if you can call the empty glittering generalities they used that went on and on and on, a debate, to any one with a smidgeon of common sense, were running on empty. All of them were vacuous an unable to come up with a single solitary fact and an embarrassment as debaters for even your average sophomore in High School with an average IQ. It was embarrassing to watch and hear them and to think that anyone of them might become President scares the living daylights out of me. For most part the only thing more scary than the performance in front of nationwide audience of these political midgets is the commentary of those mostly Democrats giving their reactions. Their comments were hardly more enlightening than were those who were on the stage boring the audience to death. It all came down to whether they would go with their preferred candiate or switrch to another lighthead. When Hillary said her "feelings were hurt!" because the Iowa results showed that Barack was more likeable, The audfience burst out in laughter as though she had made some kind of a brilliant witticism of the kind that the most celebrated "comic" in the Democratic pantheon like Al Franken might make as when for example he called Rush Limbaiugh a Big Fat Pig that doubled his adoring 500 fans on Air America over with delight. Those who continued to belabor Obama because he lacked experience on Jillary's account have got to be kidding. She was never more than a back seat driver as First Lady. Supposing you were in need of a triple by-pass operation, just because she was married to the surgeon, would you want her to operate on you. The fact is the reasons advanced for chosing Barack, or John Edwards were hardly more prepossessing. All I can say if anyone of theses Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are elected we as Americans will only have ourselves to blame.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

teddy orlando — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:41:59 GMT

for all those who have been paying attention ...... did i say or did i say it? Can you hear the feet stomping I thought Hillary was going to stand up ... start stomping her feet ..... stick out her lower lip .... and start screaming MINE MINE MINE

I was surprised by the out burst heck i thought she wss going to stand up and start screaming at edwards and Obama.

Boy the staus quo line stung bad wow she was pissed.

Bye Bye Hillary stay in the senate

Obama/Biden 08

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jackson Lewis NH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:43:10 GMT

A fired-up Clinton unloaded on Barack Obama in last night's debate in New Hampshire, shredding his record on health care and flip flopping changing positions. "Two weeks ago, you criticized Senator [John] Edwards in saying he was unelectable because he had changed position over the course of four years," Clinton told Obama, you've changed positions within three years on a range of issues. You said you would vote against the Patriot Act; you came to the Senate and you voted for it. You said that you would vote against funding for Iraq; you came to the Senate and you voted for $300 billion of it. "I just think it's fair for people to understand that many of the charges that have been leveled not just at me but also at Senator Edwards are not totally unrelated to the very record that you have." People of America are looking for are people who are going to be straight about the issues," Obama said, but he refuse to answer the questions on his issues. Associated Press said Obama could have a pretty good debate with himself,' because four years ago he was for single-payer health care [and] then he moved toward a rejection of that, a more incremental approach.Clinton then laid into Obama's health plan, and exposed that which would provide a series of cost-reducing measures but which would not, as her plan would, mandate that everyone get coverage. "You have a mandate," Clinton said. "You mandate [that] parents have health care for children."

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

GuyNC Charlotte NC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:44:20 GMT

Edwards continues to get a free pass for some unknown reason. We all know he has almost no experience and has no accomplishments as a senator. Last night, When asked to name his biggest accomplishment he went on and on about the "Patients Bill of Rights". Then Hillary told us that the bill died in the house and was never passed. Great 6 years there John, other than apologizing for most every vote you made.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Ralph, LA, CA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:44:43 GMT

"Hillary is going to get hit hard on her "we need to deal in reality" comment.

She basically just stated that those supporting a campaign for change are ignornat and naive. Voters don't like candidates who look down on them. "

I'm voting republican, but Hillary is right - voters supporting Obama are ignorant and naive --- a little objectivity from the right.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

J. Burgos, Humacao, PR. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:49:38 GMT

History in the making!
The Dems need to get behind Barack/Edwards now and get back the White House.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Jack Monre Dayton OH — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 13:52:20 GMT

ITS ABOUT TIME CLINTON DEFENDED HERSELF AND EXPOSED OBAMA AND EDWARDS SHORT COMINGS, SINCE THE MEDIA REFUSES! She was OUTSTANDING last night!!! Certainly made obama look like a school boy running for class president. He couldn’t answer one question that was asked of him, he kept trying the preacher stuff. Not working...I think we all were embarrassed for Edwards who sadly looked like someone trying to make a friend with obama only to get slammed by him later for accepting monies from lobbyist, if anyone cares to research so does Obama. Let’s face it…No matter what Hillary says or does the media will not give her any credit. It truly a conspiracy against her. It’s up to educated voters to research on her behalf and sees she is the best choice to start from day one. Obama dropped the ball last night for sure.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Tiziana Catolfi, New York, N.Y. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 14:39:05 GMT

It is high time for In with the young and Out for the old. Obama for President, Edwards,great V.P. and Richardson for Sec. of State.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Bill C., Hope, AR — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:02:57 GMT

What exactly is she taking credit for when she says 35 years of experience???

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Dick Eiles, Huntsville,Tx — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:10:21 GMT

Hillary is the actress, over groomed and programmed by her handlers--Edwards is the con artist, blinking his eyes 100 times a minute as he spews against his enemies(greedy and vile corporations)--and Obama is a somewhat naive and idealistic man with passion and heart in the style of a young Abe Lincoln and JFK. Although weary he kept his poise in this format that doesn't give him an opportunity to really show his depth of passion and charactor. I voted for Bush(sorry) and I now I would like an Obama-McCain or Huckaby race.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Stacy, Gloucester, VA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:47:21 GMT

I am undecided but I think Clinton did the best in the debate last night. I lean towards Obama because I want someone on the ticket that will help deliver more Democrats to the Congress so that there is a true working majority. Clinton has too many negatives and is the Democrat that will bring out people just to vote against her and as a result other Democrats on the State tickets. It is a sad reality that Clinton is the best qualified candidate but the Country needs to heal a bit and she isn't the candidate for that.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Linda Stumpe,St. Louis, Mo. — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:05:42 GMT

I thought Hillary made the most of that debate last night, I have always found it hard to follow Obama's rambling answers and I certainly didn't think he looked Presidential last night. He seemed bored and tired. Hillary gave very to the point, precise answers and she always does her homework, she is on top of all issues and knows clearly what she wants to do. Her point about reality and working hard was right on the money, Obama has no real record and he's been trying to discount the experience factor, since when is experience a bad thing. We hired a likeable guy last time with no excperience, I don't think we want to do that again. Go Hillary!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Peter V, California — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:09:32 GMT

If the Democrats put Senator Clinton up against Senator McCain or Governor Romney they will repeat the same mistake in 2004, but in the opposite direction; Senator Kerry was too dispassionate, off message, and weak. Senator Clinton will be passionate enough, but her “anger” will alienate the independent and cross-over republican voters.

The ruse about Senator Obama’s lack of experience will fade into the background during the general election. The Republican candidate will succumb to the overwhelming desire of the American people to correct the horrendous Iraq mistake initiated and perpetuated by President Bush and his Vice-President, and then galvanized by the Republican Party.

If Senator Barack Obama is nominated by the Democrats he will be our next president, and thankfully so!

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Paul Walker, germantown, TN — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:09:56 GMT

What is clear is the HRC campaign has been derailed. Perhaps buried.
We are at the point when eveything that looks or smells like a Washington insider is viewed with suspicion.
HRC is the ultimate insider.
I can appreciate her approach of change from the inside. Unfortunately for her times have changed and events have left her behind.
The good news for her supporters is the sooner they move to unite the party behind Mr. Obama the sooner all will be forgiven.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

John Alexander,Edinboro,PA — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:16:37 GMT

The dems did great, it seems the independants will go dem this year, Yehah!!!
Any one of our candidates will create change, the repubs have to love-up Bush till the general and will give more people a reason to vote dem.
I am also glad to see after all these years that young people are really getting involved, I am proud of you all for taking the time to become another great generation of americans, thanks for giving me hope. GO DEMS!!!!!! I believe that the repubs will have to realign themselves with the true majority of americans, no more base, no more american al Quieda!
Take back america for all americans, we need to bring us back to the middle where most americans are.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Suzanne, NYC — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 18:54:48 GMT

Hillary did great, having substantial concrete responses to issues where Obama is light and short, and spends his time attacking Hillary. On the Pakistan issue, she had five ideas, where Obama spent all his time saying Pakistan was a problem because of the Iraq War (thereby a jab at HRC). The fact the media, like MSNBC, side with a newcomer, with no track record, and who has no original ideas for anything, is disturbing. His whole campaign is stolen from Bill Clinton 1992 and George Bush 2000 (even using the words `overcoming the divide' in his rhetoric). If you took the time to watch the Republican debate, you would see that Democrats need to field a serious candidate with solutions. All the Republicans have to say, to win the election in 2008, is that they recognize the need for change, and they have ideas. In other words, move to the center, and you remove the need for Obama who has no other message than `change.'

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M Banks, Miami, Fl — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 19:29:49 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

M Banks, Miami, Fl — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 19:29:50 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

MIKE FEENEY — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:07:32 GMT

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Colleen Rochester NH — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 02:04:15 GMT

John Edwards had an amazing night, and he was not given his dues, This is NOT a two person race. John Edwards is a viable candidate.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

Anne C., York, PA — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 02:11:41 GMT

Maybe Obama's ahead in this race because he copies everything Edwards says and writes. If Edwards drops out, Obama won't have any new material.

Initial takeaway: Obama gets to play frontrunner

SJ Smith, Kansas City, MO — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 18:54:57 GMT

Wow, we are truly a cult of personality-driven nation. Generoulsy speaking, Obama has two years of experience in the senate; he doesn't have a clue what's in store for him if he's the nominee. Partisan Republicans will suddenly heed his calls for unity and "swoon" for him as the press has (check the Newsweek editor's comments on Charlie Rose and Chris Matthews' relentless attacks on Hillary).

Obama's "victory" speech in Iowa was great, right? Well, it better be good; it's the same one he's been giving since the 2004 Democratic National Convention. Reality Check: You can't achieve change with rhetoric alone; you have to have done something. Obama, a bright and worthy newcomer, needs to get some real experience--and the press needs to stop "swooning" and start giving him the same scrutiny it does Hillary Clinton.

Woe to all of us if we throw out a proven, truly remarkable leader like Hillary Clinton for our new political "rock star." How American...and how unfortunate.

SJ Smith
Kansas City, MO