First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Nashville_fan — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:24:57 GMT

"Our question: By responding - even with a counterpunch - does Obama risk being portrayed as just another politician?"

In a word: No.

Why does the media always try to equate a "positive campaign" to being "naive". Contrary to what the talking heads think, you can stand up and say STOP LYING without being negative. Amazing, huh?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Scott — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:26:29 GMT

An answer to your question about whether Obama looks like any other politician if he responds to the Clinton attacks.

The answer is NO. He is respected for standing up for himself. Many Democrats have wondered if he could stand up to the Republican attack machine in the General Election. Turns out he gets a perfect opportunity in the primaries since the Clintons run campaigns just Karl Rove. Clinton fans went apoplectic yesterday when somebody dared to utter the word Lee Atwater to describe the smear jobs Bill and other surrogates have been using. You always know when you're close to the truth with this crew because you start hearing righteous indignation.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Nashville_fan — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:28:02 GMT

"How would Iowans have received the news that three precious days before the caucuses, a candidate had decided to campaign in New Hampshire instead? "

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
You know, this would probably be a bigger issue in South Carolina if Senator Clinton hadn't left the ACTUAL Presidential candidate behind! lol

Who needs Hillary when you've got Bill, right? And he's such a stand up guy too . . .

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Sandy, South Carolina — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:28:02 GMT

South Carolinians don't care that she left. Whites have decided to vote for her already. Look at the polls.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Mary Kimbel, Canton, Ohio — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:31:12 GMT

Gee George thanks, for the "mess" you got us into. Would someone tell me "one" damn good thing to improve all Americans lives he has done. One dam thing ! "The worst President in our history".

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Stu Hyvonen, Saginaw, MI — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:32:56 GMT

Isn't it strange that Romney is so concerned about which candidate will be best "for the Party" rather than which might be best "for the Country"?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Jeff Rathdrum ID — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:34:44 GMT

Now all the Clinton supports will cry foul again. There almost as bad as the Clintons, its perfectily ok to attack Obama but if he respondes it's foul. Oh well if Clinton does get the nomination they will deserve what they get, probably four more years of a Republicain president.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

j fl — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:37:13 GMT

so slightly more of Edwards supporters will go to Hillary. She got most of the female voters, hispanics love her and she still gets a good portion of black voters once we get past SC. Looks like shes the nominee. If Obama plays nicer, she might choose him as her running mate and that would definitely get the dems back in the White House.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:41:12 GMT

".....A new L.A. Times/Bloomberg survey finds Clinton holding a solid (yet dwindling) lead nationally over Obama, 42%-33%. ....."

FACT CHECK: Hillary's lead did not dwindle. The L.A. Times/Bloomberg Poll done Jan 18-22 is no different than the CNN/Opinion Research Corporation Poll conducted Jan 14-17. Both polls show the same results.

In fact, other polls done just this month, have her ahead of Obama by as much as 15 and 20 points.

Here's the website to verify my statements.
http://www.pollingreport.com/wh08dem.htm

PLEASE STOP LYING, FIRST READ

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Gail, Maine — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:45:14 GMT

In this morning's Boston Globe, Dan Payne, a democratic consultant who is not aligned with any candidate in the presidential race, writes about some of the various problems that the candidates could have in the fall. Here's a section that I'd really like to see fleshed out...
"The gang of three. I worry that Obama will get pounded by the GOP for being one of only three state senators to vote against making it a crime for convicts on probation or bail to have contact with street gang members."
What is the explanation for this vote? We need more information from unbiased sources before we vote. We could have a nominee by 2/6...

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Jesse, Fallon NV — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:52:23 GMT

Go home Hillary. You are doing a disservice to the DEM party, and our nation.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Sierra, SF — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:53:14 GMT

From First Read (the Battle for SC):

'...Has Bill Clinton successfully played the race card?...'

NO, NOT THE REPUBLICANS...
Has Bill Clinton successfully played the race card?

'...Has Bill Clinton successfully played the race card? AP's Fournier notes: "One of the best political strategists of his generation, Clinton may be hoping to lower expectations for Saturday's primary. He may have his sights on Feb. 5, when voters in 22 states take part in a national primary. It would likely work to Hillary Clinton's advantage to have the electorate polarized by race,....'

'..IT WOULD LIKEY WORK TO HILLARY CLINTON'S ADVANTAGE
TO HAVE THE ELECTORATE POLARIZED BY RACE..'

'...given that most Feb. 5 voters will be white and Hispanic; she won the Hispanic vote overwhelmingly in last week's Nevada caucus.

Strategists working for the New York senator deny any intentional effort by Bill Clinton, his wife or even surrogates like Bob Johnson, who referred to Obama's admitted drug use, to stir the racial debate. But they say they believe the fallout has had the effect of branding Obama as ‘the black candidate,’ something he has worked to avoid."...'

The first viable Black Presidential candidate
THE CLINTON'S RACE BAITED OBAMA

Bill Clinton, the 'first black President' ?
RACE BAITED OBAMA

Do we want 4 years of THIS ?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Lockstepping to Victory! — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:54:23 GMT

"McCain won't always do what's in the best interest of the party."

Oh, damn him! We demand an automaton to carry out brutal, ruthless, even senseless policies without back talk!

Vote Mitt.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Sierra, SF — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:55:38 GMT

'... “Hillary Clinton will say anything to get elected,”...'

She'll even have Bill 'play the race card'

Hillary Clinton, cold, calculating, dishonest, unethical, divisive

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

redshift, spokane wa — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 15:58:48 GMT

montanaro: if i read your last little piece correctly in "back to carolina": "after spending last couple of days in feb. 5 states clinton returns to south carolina" how does that relate to "three precious days before the caucuses"? Your math is as lousey as your biased "reporting". Your "job" is to put out the facts. the rest of us can figure out what's going on.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Jane, Cary, NC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:03:17 GMT

The latest "Clintonian lie" is the idea that if Obama wins in SC because it has a large "African-American" population that somehow this proves he is the "Black candidate." I have one word for that - IOWA!!! Are our memories so very short that we have forgotten that just three weeks ago today OBAMA WON IOWA BY TEN POINTS OVER HILLARY - IOWA WHICH IS 98% WHITE!!! This was the LARGEST MARGIN of VICTORY in any contest to date - 39% for Obama to 29% for Hillary!! Iowans had a year to size up these candidates and they overwhelmingly chose BARACK OBAMA. IOWA is a WHITE midwestern state. This proved that Obama can - and does - win WHITE votes! Could Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton have won so decisively in a 98% WHITE state? I seriously doubt it. But the Clintonian tactic now is to put Obama in that "box" of being a "Black candidate" who only appeals to African-American voters. This is ridiculous! This is one Clintonian lie that just won't fly!!

I am a white woman who avidly supports Barack Obama. I am disgusted by the Clintons - under Mark Penn & Co. - trying to make this a race about race. It is revolting - and will backfire against them.

The question in SC should be why is the Black community NOT supporting the Clintons? After all, wasn't Bill the 1st Black President?! Why is Hillary losing African-Americans in huge numbers? Maybe because many, like James Clyburn, are disgusted too by the Clintonian tactic of trying to make this a race about race.

JUST REMEMBER IOWA!! 98% WHITE IOWA gave Obama a HUGE WIN - 39% to 29%!! And mostly white NH and Nevada gave many votes to Obama too. So to try and say because SC has a large Black population which will most likely support Obama more than Clinton that this somehow makes him the "Black candidate" is a lie. REMEMBER IOWA!!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:07:04 GMT

"...How would Iowans have received the news that three precious days before the caucuses, a candidate had decided to campaign in New Hampshire instead? ..."

Whatever thats supposed to mean. (?)
Obama is getting awfully "fat" media coverage over having won but a single caucus, and no primaries to date.
There is little doubt that he'll win South Carolina. The state has a large African American voter base, and he is polling significantly ahead of the rest of the field.
But, the question which needs to be asked is...so what?
John Edwards won SC in 2004, and it got him absolutely nothing in the long run.
I suspect that what will happen will be something along these lines;
The margin over Hillary will be substantial, 10-20 points, and the media, which never paid any particularly "special" attention to the South Carolina primary before, will proclaim that black voters are now energized and Obama is rising in the polls.
That will last until he loses the next primary. Then, their will be all sorts of excuses made as to why he lost, and suddenly the issue of race and/or gender will come out from the Obama camp once again.
Mark it down on your calendars folks. You can count on it like clockwork!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Treena, NJ — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:12:04 GMT

All of the republican candidates except for Ron Paul are a disgrace. Can we trust them not to lie to us like the Bush administration did? I doubt it, after all they all support and cover up Bush's lies. Does anyone even want to hold them accountable for their lies, after all those lies resulted in more than 3500 deaths. Check out the link below, proof of their lies:

http://www.publicintegrity.org/WarCard/Default.aspx?src=project_home&context=overview&id=945

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

dan — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:17:43 GMT

Roseanne has again taken to her personal blog to eviscerate Oprah and Barack Obama, The whole entry, caps and all, is here:

winfrey has refused to do a show with the FIRST WOMAN candidate for President who has EVER won a primary election, in the history of the United States of America. I saw Hilary on the ridiculous tyra banks' show, and fumed. Hilary deserves to have been able to address the huge female demographic that Oprah's billions came from. How very disgusting, and how very very telling!! Maybe if Hilary was discussing her fat thighs Oprah would have had her on. Oprah doesn't really seem to respect the intelligence of her audience at all. Obama slaps the faces of his supporters with his traitorous praise of ronald reagan, the man who singlehandedly destroyed the working people, the economy, and the mental health safety net in this country, and told inner city kids that ketchup was a vegetable. I pray for the speedy failure of his divisive anti-feminist campaign. Oprah COULD HAVE delivered her viewers an audience with the most powerful and successful woman in American politics since Eleanor Roosevelt, and the only democratic candidate who has a prayer of winning this election at the most crucial time there has ever been in this country. I believe its she and David Geffen's plan to elect fellow billionaire Romney. This country's not going to elect a democrat who speaks well of republicans and reagan, like Barack Hussein Obama does. Wake Up! Diss-ing women's century-old fight for political representation of their voice makes me SICK!!!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Sierra, SF — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:23:11 GMT

'...few thought she’d skip South Carolina due to the importance of the African-American vote in a general election. Of course, she’s back in the state, and Bill picked up the slack for her while she was gone. But ask yourself this: How would Iowans have received the news that three precious days before the caucuses, a candidate had decided to campaign in New Hampshire instead?.....'

Is this part of Billary's plan for racial polarization of the Democratic Party ?
To snub African Americans after smearing Obama ?

What will happen in November ?

Bloomberg/Obama ?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Pat Huntington NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:26:17 GMT

HILLARY CLINTON SAVED HER MARRIAGE...SHE WILL SAVE OUR COUNTRY.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Publius Hamilton, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:37:28 GMT

I find this whole coverage path from MSNBC and Chuck Todd to be REPULSIVE!!!! Could their calculated support FOR McCAIN and AGAINST ROMNEY be any more obvious. Romney leads in State wins and has almost twice as many delegates as McCain, and McCain's wins have been from/due to voters outside his party where he is basically looked upon in a spectrum from unfavorable to completely unacceptable do to his stances on a litany of issues central to the Conservatives from tax cuts to immigration, to negoatiations on blocking Judicial Appointments. McCain-Feingold? McCain- Kennedy? You have a link to 30+ cartoons all critical of Romney, but not one critical of McCain. Is this objective "Reporting" - ? This is a live editorial, biased in nature, from the left, promoting the candidate they would like to see, disguised as "Reporting" of the "News". This is so repulsive to watch this sleeze job - let's paint the guy "we" want as the leader, as the guy likely to win, in order to direct votes from the large body of people who always feel compelled to vote for the declared "winner" so as not to "waste" their vote on someone that the news organizations say is not going to win in the end. How do you give the "leader" or "Momentum" label to a man with half as many State wins, barely winning in some cases, only created by cross-over voters, and nearly half the delegates of the guy you clearly don't like for various reasons - most of all being - he's conservative, and therefore does NOT represent your point of view................???? Let's stop the bias and the underhanded vote shifting. I can only imagine if the places were reversed, and McCain actually had ROmney's lead of State wins and Delagates - would I expect to see you report Romney as "almost the front-runner, and the guy with the momentum behind him"?? Gosh, obviously not.

Just for informational purposes - let's summarize the great Liberal Agenda:

1) Public Health - VA Hospitals the kill instead of cure. Let's expand this great system and put the Canadian and British models in play, since they've been such utter failures there.
2) Public Schools - a protected monopoly of the Democratic Party which has the most abysmal teaching record in the Western World - kids that can't read, calculate, or think. Every attempt to break this sick monopolistic system leading us to complete dysfunctionality is stymied and blocked by the Democrats - school vouchers, the ability to a parent to put their child in a school of their choise - that actually will educate their child - rather than an economically forced enrollment in the local lethargy center, where children graduating can barely read at a 4th grade level, nor do basic math and science,...in an increasingly technically oriented world and job market!
3) The Tort System - another protected sacred cow of the Democrats. A protected system to allow clever snakes without the scintilla of a conscience, to siphon off a private tax into their own pockets resulting in the killing off of various businesses and industries that cannot afford to pay for this tax, which comes in the form of insurance premiums that fund their unbridled greed within the court system.
4) The Welfare State, where the commendable idea of helping the truly needy is perverted into a vote garnering system that allows massive defrauding of tax payers and encourages people not to work, spawning generations of peoples who exhibit the normal and predictable societal problems of people without gainful employment - drugs, crime, violence, domestic, violence - all adding to the cost of this misguided and mismanaged theory of life, but....creating a growing and obedient under-class of people, who are all more than willing to vote to continue the flow of money, even though it perpetuates a state of servitude and suffering, and for many, just plain Hell.

I once posted an ad for an entry level position - how many calls I received from people who would not take the job because it would just barely replace all the "benefits" they get from the government - free housing, food, etc. Why should they work to replace something they get for free? 10 people from one ad that could be working and off public "support". They were willing to work if it was for cash, btw. How many people could and should be working that are on Welfare, SSI, etc.

Let's take another whack at Romney and see if we can get a liberal Republican in there instead - they guys that's historically shown himself to be willing to turn his back on his own constituency to partner with the most liberal members of the Senate.

Let's write another Editorial promoting our own interests which we disguise as a "news story" for the general public.

How repulsive this is to watch.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

POLpursun — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:42:17 GMT

Notwithstanding the presidency of Bush 43, the GOP may not lose the White House in Jan. 2009. How?
Assumptions:
(i) The GOP nominates McCain ---- looks plausible.
(ii) The Democrats nominate Clinton ---- they should not if they don't, at core, want more of the same but odds are they will.
(iii) Notwithstanding that the voters on the Democratic side say, according to reports, that they wish HC/BO to choose each other as running mate, this is a bad idea for two reasons. The first, their perspective on the role of potus entirely different. According to what they themselves have said, his primary focus is leader, hers is manager. Second, if the Clintons are prepared to conduct themselves publicly as despicably as they are doing in this campaign, why would Obama (or indeed others) want to put himself in such a position? Slick Willie WILL be around.
(iii) The Clinton(s) campaign will engender a sufficient polarization, to have a sufficient, however small, impact on the turnout in November. In fact, I suspect that it will be much, much smaller than it ought to be, but enough.
(iv) The Clintons' disgustingly unattractive campaign will continue to be euphemistically called skilled politics.

Given these assumptions it will be McCain vs Clinton in November with the former prevailing.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

kmnecole, st louis, mo — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:43:21 GMT

Dick Morris statements in an effort to set the record straight on Hillary's history:

For those of you who don't know Dick Morris was the political advisor to Bill Clinton during his White House years. He was about as close to the Clintons as anyone during that time. I am reposting his comments concerning Hillary.

"If you happen to see the Bill Clinton five minute TV ad for Hillary in which he introduces the commercial by saying that he wants to share some things we may not know about Hillary's background . . .
beware .
As I was there for most of their presidency and know them better than just about anyone, I offer a few corrections;
Bill says: "Hillary spent a year after graduation working on a children's rights project for poor kids."
The facts are : Hillary interned with Bob Truehaft, the head of the California Communist Party. She met Bob when he represented the Panthers and traveled all the way to San Francisco to take an internship with him.
Bill says: "Hillary could have written her own job ticket, but she turned down all the lucrative job offers."
The facts are: She flunked the DC bar exam, yes, flunked, it is a matter of record, and only passed the Arkansas bar. She had no job offers in Arkansas, none, and only got hired by the University of Arkansas Law School at Fayetteville because Bill was already teaching there. She did not join the prestigious Rose Law Firm until Bill became Arkansas Attorney General and was made a partner only after he was elected Arkansas Governor.
Bill says: "President Carter appointed Hillary to the Legal Services Board of Directors and she became its chairman."
The facts are: The appointment was in exchange for Bill's support for Carter in his 1980 primary against Ted Kennedy. Hillary then became chairman in a coup in which she won a majority away from Carter's choice to be chairman.
Bill says: "She served on the board of the Arkansas Children's Hospital."
The facts are: Yes she did. But her main board activity, not mentioned by Bill, was to sit on the Wal-mart board of directors, for a substantial fee. She was silent about their labor and health care practices.
Bill says: "Hillary didn't succeed at getting health care for all Americans in 1994 but she kept working at it and helped to
create the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) that provides five million children with health insurance."
The facts are: Hillary had nothing to do with creating CHIP. It
was included in the budget deal between Clinton and Republican Majority Leader Senator Trent Lott. I know; I helped to negotiate the deal. The money came half from the budget deal and half from the Attorney Generals' tobacco settlement. Hillary had nothing to do with either source of funds.
Bill says: "Hillary was the face of America all over the world."
The facts are: Her visits were part of a program to get her out of town so that Bill would not appear weak by feeding stories that Hillary was running the White House. Her visits abroad were entirely touristic and symbolic and there was no substantive diplomacy on any of them.
Bill says: "Hillary was an excellent Senator who kept fighting for children's and women's issues."
The facts are: Other than totally meaningless legislation like changing the names on courthouses and post offices. Presently she is trying to have the US memorialize the Woodstock fiasco of 40 years ago.
Here is what bothers me more than anything else about Hillary Clinton. She has done everything possible to weaken the President and our country (that's you and me!) when it comes to the war on terror.
1. She wants to close GITMO and move the combatants to the USA where they would have access to our legal system.
2. She wants to eliminate the monitoring of suspected Al Qaeda phone calls to/from the USA.
3. She wants to grant constitutional rights to enemy combatants captured on the battlefield.
4. She wants to eliminate the monitoring of money transfers between suspected Al Qaeda cells and supporters in the USA.

One cannot think of a single bill Hillary has introduced or a single comment she has made that would tend to strengthen our country in the War on Terror.
But, one can think of a lot of comments she has made that weaken our country and makes it a more dangerous situation for all of us.
by Dick Morris, former political advisor to President Bill Clinton

This country needs a honest leader . Fool me once shame on you HRC, fool me twice shame on me. Re- whitewater, travelgate, filegate, vince foster, ron brown, monica, right wing conspiracy, Iran vote, exagerated claims of gravitas. anybody but HRC

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

lyn,Md — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:44:19 GMT

Are you Kidding me

Posted by Joe Klein | Comments (24) | Permalink | Trackbacks (0) | Email This
Let me get this straight: Obama wins Iowa. In a desperate move--unprecedented for an ex-President in American politics--Bill Clinton decides to impede Obama's momentum by inserting himself into the campaign. He attacks Obama on an almost daily basis, sometimes falsely. He makes a spectacle of himself. And then he blames the press for not covering the substance of the campaign?
"This is what you live for," he told CNN reporter Jessica Yellin.. "They just spin you up on this and you happily go along," Clinton said. As aides steered him away, he scolded: "Shame on you."
I can't believe that Hillary Clinton wants the world to think that whenever she gets into political trouble, she's going to have her husband come roaring about, breaking furniture, sucking up oxygen, spewing carbon dioxide. My impression is that she's strong enough to defend herself--she certainly showed that in the recent Democratic debate. But apparently she's not strong enough to control Mr. Bill...and if that's the case, any sane voter would have to think twice before enabling this sort of circus act in the White House.

http://www.time-blog.com/swampland/2008/01/are_you_kidding_me.html

Well said Mr Klein

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Betty — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:47:38 GMT

Lookie here, Martha in less than 1 year Hillary will be in charge. Boy are things going to change then!What a mess, George has left. I hope they send him the bill to clean it up. If he hasn't the money , ask him to mow the White House lawn and clean the gutters. The windows look a little messy too.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

HMT-MI — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:47:56 GMT

Boca where all the rich live---quite influential alsowonder how many of the riff raff get in through the gates..

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Jennifer, Boston — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:51:55 GMT

I have a question. Where are this morning's posts?? It strains credulity to imagine no one has tried to post today! If you don't print ALL the morning posts, imagine how many people will have spent time writing to you for nothing. Politico.com, The Fix on the Washington Post website and others print posts almost immediately. What is the problem here? You posted this topic at 10:11am. To keep our trust that you are not doing selective editing, you should show ALL POSTS from that time forward. Thank you -

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Joseph, Grand Rapids, MI — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:52:36 GMT

Mitt Romney will win tonights debate. He does well under fire and I am sure that he expects the whole line up to tag team him once again. Romney has been able to push through the many attacks, and tonight will be no different. Romney has passion and desire to make this nation great and which frankly, the rest of the line up doesn't share. Romney has a positive, but realistic vision of America. McCain will provide much of the same, and true conservative understand that he is no conservative. We haven't forgotten where McCain really stands in the GOP. Huckabee is a funny guy, but lacks any chance of defeating the Democrats in November. Romney is the real deal here and that is why is will recieve the nomination. Whether he wins Flordia or not, he will win the nomination. Republicans need to wake up, get involved and vote for the only true conservative in the race, and that man is Mitt Romney, period. Mitt Romney will have my vote in November.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Stu Hyvonen, Saginaw, MI — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:53:07 GMT

Kind of curious: You folks at First Read seem to ask for comments, yet they are never posted at or near the time they're made. Further, you seem to eschew posting anti-Obama comments.

Please explain to us just why there's such a lag in time between comments being made and you posting them.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Marbw — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 16:54:45 GMT

To those of you who are in February 5th voting states -- even if you haven't registered to vote yet, you still have time to register if you live in the following states:

Alaska, Idaho, and Minnesota all have same day registration (Feb 5) and registration is not required to caucuse in North Dakota.
Alabama's deadline is January 26
Connecticut's deadline is January 31
If you live in one of these states or have family or friends that do, please notify folks you know about this important information.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

StopwatchingMSNBC, Rochester, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:02:43 GMT

I just wonder if Obama had gotten the endorsements from the California farmers and from Gov. Rendell, would he have left to go accept the endorsement and then come back to SC like Hillary did. I think so. This article is completely biased against Hillary. But you know what, Hillary is going to win anyway and I hope she never goes on NBC or MSNBC for any interviews while she is President. ED Shultz and Stephanie Miller wonder why she won't come on their show and it's because they bash her all the time and basically do a three hour long commercial for Obama. Their is no middle ground with the media. They have all picked Obama. Where is the integrity of journalism anymore? Where was this kind of anti G. Bush media when he was running for President in 2000. They all new the dirty campaign he was running and stayed silent. Both Hillary and Obama have played somehardball politics in this election, albight not even close to the Republican campaigns, yet, only Hillary gets the bad press. MSNBC is shameless.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Erica, Mount Dora, Florida — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:04:14 GMT

I am so tired of the media acting as if Ron Paul is not in this race. It is unfair to the American people that the media can black out a candidate because they feel he is not a front runner. Let us be fair please. It is the medias responsibility to report fairly - -or at least it is supposed to be.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Phred, NH — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:20:32 GMT

Mud flaps, $25
New wiper blades, $12
Car wash coupons, $30

Amount of political mud about to be slung, Priceless.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Carole Moye - Green Ohio — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:22:49 GMT

Obama is right Clinton will do or say anthing to get elected (both of them) - she makes me sick! They're dismal failures in the White House - it was proven last time they were there. I notice the guys are all too much of a gentleman to fire back at her like she does them!

Can't believe a straight shooter like Huckabee & others cant stay in the race because of lack of money and Hillary has so much "money" behind her - where does it come from and who will she "owe" big time? They are same old same old dirty politics.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Eric, NY, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:23:50 GMT

Ioea is not the same as South Carolina as Iowa is the first of all the contests and is supposed to be spaced out before a lot of the others. South Carolina is fourth (or fifth if you count Michigan) and we are 10 days away from when the nomination could be decided.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Margaret, NYC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:25:05 GMT

The Corporate Owned Media & Press and pundits have provided plenty of triviality and spats between candidates - but very little information about the candidates positions.

Corporations control:
the media
the media pundits
the news
the debates
the polls
the voting machines

Corporations Rule!

We're voting for the best - John Edwards!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Angry 1st Read Poster — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:31:01 GMT

First Read needs to get with it with the posts!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Daniel, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:33:54 GMT

A new poll in South Carolina has Edwards actually threatening to overtake Clinton, which could be a serious blow to the New York Senator. Link: http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2008/01/not-much-suspense-about-outcome-but.html

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Frankie Crosby, Columbus Georgia. — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:40:13 GMT

OMG!!

msnbc's Domenico Montanaro, said... with reference to Hillary Clinton's, absence in the Palmetto State.

"But ask yourself this: How would Iowans have received the news that three precious days before the caucuses, a candidate had decided to campaign in New Hampshire instead?" Said Domenico Montanaro, msnbc. OMG!! said, "exactly where the heck is Iowa."

Domenico, "ask yourself this," Jesse Jackson, with his ''Rainbow Coalition" carried SC two times, remember... about 50% of the voting block in SC is Black!! Why wouldn't it be an intelligent thing to spend "precious" pre Feb. 5Th time in States where the outcome is not completely black and white...

Hillary Clinton could stay in SC two weeks 24/7 and she still is not going to carry SC... Ask yourself that??

In a very real sense SC could be the death knell for Obama. Confirming the idea that has emerged from his victory in the Iowa corn fields farm subsidy state. (By the way were exactly is Iowa?) That Obama is a "one trick pony."

The overwhelmingly black vote that he is poised to collect in SC, could very well do more harm than good. In the big picture, "highlighting" Obama's (percived) Achilles tendon in Nevada. Where Obama lost convincingly in the three largest national voting blocks, white women, white males, and Hispanics, and I believe among Asians as well. Obama did overwhelmingly carry black females and males. But in the other categories seems the Chap came up lacking.... Think about that Domenico.

''ASK YOURSELF THIS,'' Domenico. Is it politically intelligent of Obama to tour around the state of South Carolina, in a state that in all probability "Al Sharpton" could carry....

The real problem for Obama in South Carolina is even with a win, he may very well look like a loser... Because it can reinforce the Nevada scenario, that Obama is *polarizing,* and only capable of capturing the black voting block... This win probably will not help him.. in the strange, weird, yet very real, world of strategic politics.... Ask yourself that Domenico..

Obama is "wasting" valuable time in SC, its back to the "feel good" thing, like in the debate, in which Clinton took Obama off message and stayed on her "National Message." So as to your narrow, simple, not thought out politically no brainer comment, that Hillary Clinton should be spending "precious" pre Super Tuesday time in SC. Clinton is much to clever and shrewed to do a silly thing like that... Think about that Domenico...

Like I keep saying Mr Domenico, the more I read, see, and analyze, what Political Pundits, say; The easier it is to see, why they get it "completely wrong," a lot of the time... You know I really can't help but wonder, are there any qualifications for the job of Political Pundit. I'm quite serious here... It often seems that Pundit Political Analysis is so weak, and un telling, that in many cases it's simply entertainment...

Maybe it's my perception, and I am missing the boat, in the sense that Political Punditry is simply entertainment. That I should not be looking for serious analysis, depth, astuteness, underlying understanding.... Perhaps Bugs Bunny, Wily Coyote, and Yosemite Sam, have as much to offer...

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Elliott, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:41:23 GMT

"does Obama risk being portrayed as just another politician?" If not a politician what would you put call him? A God???

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Yiannis, Baltimore — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:46:53 GMT

Hillary voted to give the dumbest president in history the power to start a war. Get around that.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Phred, NH — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:59:59 GMT

It would seem the candidate who comes out with the most positive message could see a surge come primary time. The mudslinger(s) could face their doom. Perhaps tonight we'll seperate the Can-didates from the Cant-idates.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Randy Ewart SC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:03:50 GMT

The key point in this whole thread: <i>Lost ...was Clinton’s decision to bypass the state ...the first contest with a sizable African-American population.</i>

I think they are conceeding the African-American vote but are maintaining a facade of caring. Clyburn should make them pay and endorse Obama. Sadly, he's entrenched in the system as are the Clintons.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Dan, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:06:49 GMT

I'm a Fredhead, and I will be watching the debate tonight very closely. In fact, I'm taking a real hard look at Ron Paul, who seems to be the only real conservative left in the race. The rest of the candidates running are just big government tax and spend socialists.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Heather Bortle, MPLS, MN — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:14:37 GMT

What's really going on here?? Why are you excluding Ron Paul so much?? He's the only one who tells the truth and makes any sense!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

SUSAN , Osterville, MA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:16:39 GMT

What about the Zogby poll?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Wendi Provo, Utah — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:18:37 GMT

As you watch the debate tonight on MSNBC, watch for attacks on Mitt Romney. This is why: http://www.americanthinker.com/2008/01/why_they_hate_mitt_romney.html
Mitt is the ONLY candidate who has the proven experience to get the job done. He knows how to get health care for everyone in a free market, he is a turn-around artist for business, and he will fight for all conservative social issues that preserve our families. Find out the truth and read this article.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Jim, Globe, AZ — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:23:25 GMT

HEAR YE! HEAR YE!

How many Democrats and Independents are willing to sign an on-line petition NOT to vot for Hillary in a primary OR general election...no matter what?

We need to launch a 'STOP HILLARY NOW' on-line petition for Democrats and Independents...to demonstrate to voters and to the Democratic Party hierarchy, the foolhardy result of a potential Hillary nomination.

Time is of the absolute essence! Who among us will take up this torch?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

John McCain — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:24:22 GMT

SAY ANYONE KNOW ,WHERE RUDY PUT THE PRUNE JUICE ?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Ben, Chicago IL — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:31:55 GMT

Since this was news to me, I thought I'd share it. Apparently McCain really should not have been allowed to be a pilot, having crashed 4 planes when he was training to be a pilot. A crash rate that high should have prevented him from being a Navy Pilot, but I guess his father's connections helped. http://www.vietnamveteransagainstjohnmccain.com/cin_mccain_lost_five_u.htm
Oh, and I wonder if his connections also may have had a say in how many medals John was awarded with; about 1.5 medals per combat hour.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

D Andrews, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:34:25 GMT

I am sick of Iowa and New Hamsphire owning the process. South Carolina doesn't own it either.

What about New York? Texas? California? The most powerful states in the union become almost after thoughts. How dumb is that?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

J. Merle Stanley, Westchesr, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:46:59 GMT

I see what MSNBC's First Read is all about now.
You get proven wrong about the silly things you say in reference to Hillary and Bill Clinton.
You get proven to be bias, unfair, and less than truthful.
You get exposed as SHILLS for Barrack Obama.....and then you either don't update the message board for hours ata time, or you start censoring posts from the people who expose you.
Tell the truth First Read...stop lying!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Cory, Logan, Utah — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 18:56:33 GMT

The mason-dixon poll has been out for 2 hours now. Romney is in the lead so of course, we are not hearing much about it yet http://www.orlandosentinel.com/orl-bk-poll012408,0,642114.story

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Gary, Franklin, WI — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:09:10 GMT

The ever-shrinking GOP presidential field (Giuliani, Huckabee, McCain, Paul, and Romney) meet to "debate" tonight on MSNBC from 9:00 pm to 10:30 pm ET. What will be on TNT, USA, or the Discovery Channel during the same time slot? Now that would be useful information!

What are these idiots going to say that they have not already said? What questions irrelevant to the lives of average voters have Williams and Russert not already asked?

Oh well, only 285 days . . .

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Mike, Hermosa Beach, CA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:11:16 GMT

This is where the candidates stand... http://truthalert.net/Republican%20Presidential%20Candidate%20Rankings.htm

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Phil Edwards, Aberdeen, NC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:20:28 GMT

I was just looking at the MSNBC Exit Poll from Nevada and noticed something interesting. Among Protestant voters, 43% voted for Romney and 13% voted for Huckabee. Among Catholic voters, 35% voted for Romney and 5% voted for Huckabee. Among LDS voters, 95% voted for Romney and none voted for Huckabee. Among "Other Christians", 30% voted for Romney and 17% voted for Huckabee. Among those who identified themselves as "born-again/evangelical Christians", 37% voted for Romney and 23% voted for Huckabee. All of that says that conservative evangelical Christians voted overwhelmingly for Romney while no Mormons voted for Huckabee. It seems that evangelical Christians are seeing Huckabee for who he is and what he really stands for thanks to groups like Evangelicals for Mitt. If you want to know why evangelical Christians are turning their attention and support to Mitt Romney, see

www.evangelicalsformitt.com.

It's a great site and you'll learn a lot about the issues.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Kay Pealstrom, Tempe, AZ — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:23:49 GMT

As much as I liked Bill Clinton's presidency, who would be strong enough to VP Sen Clinton's presidency? As shrewd a politician as he is, he is not easily 'handled' as referenced in the past few weeks. Instead of Edwards leaving the race, I'd rather see Sen Clinton as the Senate Majority Leader. She has carved out her own place in the Senate and done a good job at it. WOuld be better than Reid. Edwards has been ignored by the national media to the point of stupidity. Remember how Kerry got the top of that ticket? Consider if it had been reversed, Edwards/Kerry, and we would not have been in this mess.
No. Sen Clinton needs to be realistic as to what she can and will do with Bill Clinton back in the White House. He does not 'handle' well.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

betty in baltimore — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:24:17 GMT

I think "solid (yet dwindling)" is the best way to describe how the media has covered the race so far.

With extra dwindling.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Kennedy Jamison, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:25:23 GMT

"If the candidates don't stop McCain now, they never will"

WHAT KIND OF JACKASS'S ARE YOU GUYS? Even though its clear you are biased, and want the old, angry McCain to get his tail whipped next November, AT LEAST TRY TO ACT IMPARTIAL!

Thats the stupidest thing you've written in awhile - and thats saying something. Haven't you been watching at all?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Ty, Dallas, Tx — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:51:18 GMT

I am offended that she would not take South Carolina serious. Why not have Bill in the other state and she stay in SC. The people are voting for her not Bill...maybe the thinking is the African American vote won't cost her the overall nomination...so screw them...as an African American what how should I feel about that...as stated she never left NH or Iowa because of the chance of losing and making sure the next stops where covered...

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Tim Grant, Seattle, WA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:54:35 GMT

Hillary and Bill will say and do anything to get elected.

Makes me want to get out my checkbook and write a check to the Obama campaign.

I think I will.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Dennis Brewer — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:55:52 GMT

What an utterly foolish comment to say McCain's liberal tendencies make him potentially electable. What liberal independent is going to vote for McCain? Somebody who wants to fight terrorists. That person doesn't exist. You guys can keep throwing this on the wall and seeing if it sticks, but McCain is a sell-out and the border will eventually come back to the forefront. Too bad for you libs.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Sharon Walker, Folsom, cA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:58:26 GMT

Dear Friends:
The bridge over Boca is not the only way to look at this campaign. Another international issue is brewing over Mexico. How did the man suspected of killing his wife and unborn child get to Mexico and contact the support group? Military personal allie or not international and civil he has crossed the line and support is not about his life. Justice prevail. Issues!!! Do not burn your bridge?
Terrorists at the same time 10x10 trouble in Boca! Who do you want to be there for you? Get out and Vote!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Sharon Walker, Folsom, cA — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 19:59:07 GMT

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D Andrews, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:02:35 GMT

Obama keeps trying to minimalize his connections to Tony Rezco despite their long history together that spanned over a decade. Why not just come clean? Some wonder if there is something else back there lurking.

Patrick Fitzgerald has tied Obama to Rezko. He is not a target of the investigation but he is the unnamed candidate listed in the indictment per the reporting of the Sun-Times.

Rumors also swirled yesterday that the Clinton camp may have told some that there is more to come out yet on the Obama Rezko connection that the public does not yet know.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Salvius, New York, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:04:13 GMT

It is pretty interesting to me that you mention five candidates, yet say "A Giuliani win puts the GOP race back to square one with 3 and a 1/2 candidates left vying for the actual nomination, the half being Huckabee." You're missing 1 1/2 people?

Then I read Chuck Todd's assesment, and find the same quote verbatum. Are you plagiarising off of each other because you think is so cleverly worded?

I am not a Ron Paul guy, but it is discouraging to see professionals like yourself discount people so early on. In your categories I see 187 topics related to Romney, 147 to Guliani, 19 to Ron Paul, and 7 to Duncan Tancredo. The disparity is concerning.

Before eliminating potential candidates, it might be important discuss their platforms and positions instead of hyping up some over others.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

D Andrews — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:04:45 GMT

Might Obama become a target of Patrick Fitzgerald's investigation down the road? We have seen in the past how Fitz starts at the bottom and works his way up.

http://noquarterusa.net/blog/2008/01/19/patrick-fitzgerald-ties-obama-to-rezko-indictments/

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Dennis Brewer, Azle, Texas — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:06:00 GMT

You guys are a real piece of work. Don't you libs have any spines to debate? I dare you to post my comments.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

No Comment — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:07:36 GMT

I have no comment.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Jimid iot, New York, NY — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:12:06 GMT

You righties are all gonna die. McCain is our guy and ya'll are so stupid you will believe anything a nyt or mslsd reporter tells you. Go hi-liar-y, Oops, I mean hillary!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Dennis Brewer, Azle, Texas — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:13:22 GMT

I thought for sure you'd post Jimid's comments. I see those on here every day.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:13:38 GMT

note to First Read political team...reality check:
you ask:
By responding - even with a counterpunch - does Obama risk being portrayed as just another politician? Then again, Obama risks a lot more by not responding.

the answer: Obama is another politician...what are you suggesting? Is he God? MLK, JFK, RJK...or maybe a more like a television evangelist like Creflo Dollar

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

docrock,tx — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 20:59:28 GMT

Personally,I believe that every candidate should think twice about running negative ads.For eight years this country has suffered under a Tyrant,because many people that cannot think for themselves believe any lie if repeated often enough.Surely the American people can see through the sleaze generated by spin doctors if given the true facts.Lose the Lobbyists,or we'll lose our way of life.I have more faith in the American voter than I do for ANY politician.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Ian Repley, Ann Arbor — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:14:31 GMT

Compare Mr. HUCKABEE, who has GOVERNED with common-sense ideas ( http://snipurl.com/govhealthfairtax ) to Mr. MCCAIN and it's clear that McCain is an "old boy" member of THE SENATE CLUB who has essentially done little preserve the voice of the working American.

Compare Huckabee's visionary FAIRTAX ( http://snipr.com/nextrung ) to McCain's interest in the current tax system - IRS-oppressive to wage-earning families ( http://snipurl.com/irsmisconduct ) - it's pretty easy to see who will lead us OUT of TAX SLAVERY ( http://snipr.com/taxburden ) - $265 billion annual tax code compliance costs representing 5 billion wasted hours, annually.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Susan , MASS — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:49:49 GMT

Publius :

Thank your for posting...... I am so fed up with the bias support for McCain! Romney has been ahead in the polls all day and he is flying! Would it hurt MSNBC to be a bit truthful?
Go MITT!!!!!!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Richard, Washington State — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 21:58:18 GMT

Unfortunately I can't watch the debate because of a self-imposed boycott of MSNBC TV based on the fact that Keith Olbermann is on MSNBC TV, not that I ever watched MSNBC TV for more than 5 minutes a week anyway. Then there is Chris Matthews. . .

I also change channels during NBC football broadcasts at first sight of the idiot.

I guess I'm just going to have to check out the highlights and commentary on FOX news instead.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

docrock,tx — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 22:20:51 GMT

Maybe if I posted as sierra,sf and then bashed Hillary you would post my entry.Or could it be that the afore mentioned person works for you.Maybe you just use MSNBC but are really Fox.Good job with your "non-biased"coverage.But I know you will post this.NOT!!!

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Asshan Beiught — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 22:30:47 GMT

Betty babbles: Lookie here, Martha in less than 1 year Hillary will be in charge. Boy are things going to change then!What a mess, George has left. I hope they send him the bill to clean it up. If he hasn't the money , ask him to mow the White House lawn and clean the gutters. The windows look a little messy too.

Betty, Bill called. You have the 7:30pm to 8pm slot, his place. Do not be late.

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Mark Thieme — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:17:02 GMT

Richard, your 5 minutes are up.

Go back to the lean-to and swig a little more hooch.

Don't waste our, or your, precious time with your eloquently constructed opinion of MSNBC who, btw, more than graciously allow you to pass gas here.

Whew!

What IS that smell?

First thoughts: Battle in Boca

Michael — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 01:37:35 GMT

Isn't it strange that McCain is so worried about which candidate can beat the democrats instead of which candidate is best to lead the country. Have you seen his commercial?

Romney '08!