First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Chuck, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:16:28 GMT

I plan on voting in my state’s Democratic primary this Tuesday. I have not made up my mind yet whether to vote for Senator Obama or Senator Clinton. So I pose these questions to each group of Obama and Clinton supporters.

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?
3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?

Please think about your answers, and do not respond with passion. If you are a woman and you want a woman to be President, then be honest and say so. If you are a member of a racial minority and you want Senator Obama, be honest and state that is your reason. I would appreciate answers that are concise, academic and persuasive. I enjoy the long rants from Sierra, J Merle and Jerry in CC, but keep the attack responses to you. Use this opportunity to convince voters your candidate is best.

The evidence is starting to show a Democratic nominee will be elected our next President. But I am not so sure if Senator Clinton can withstand the attack that will come in the fall. I also worry that the so-called Clinton fatigue will affect voters as well. If you put a gun to my head right now, I will vote for Obama. If you are a Clinton supporter, change my mind. I don’t want to hear about shady dealings or shady pasts. What will the future be like if your candidate is elected President?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Shadow, Hamden, CT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:49:45 GMT

The idea that Obama had his clock cleaned at the early debates is a media self-delusion like any other that gets repeated enough and considered as canon. Hillary Clinton was grating, loud, and yelling for all of those early debates, and it turned off a lot of people. However, some of her recent performances have been a bit better, and last night she managed to avoid that yelling aspect altogether, and carried herself with warmth and class, debating substance without being crass. I'd give her an A-.

However, the debate was a decisive victory for Obama, who I would give an A+; on pure debate scoring, this was by far Obama's best performance to date. I disagree the first part was a draw, actually that's where Obama ran up the score the most in my opinion; he started out of the gate with the past vs. future narrative, and then went on to systematically beat her on a point-by-point rebuttal on every thing from health care mandates to handling house forclosures. The first half hour to forty minutes was a nearly flawless performance by Obama as a result, so on balance, he wins this debate big. But again, Hillary Clinton's ability to talk softly and calmly is a notable improvement, and her decision to be civil and classy in this debate was a welcome change from the last few weeks; even if this goes down in history as the debate where Obama ultimately defeated her for the nomination, she can be proud that she went out with this excellent performance.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:49:51 GMT

Chuck Todd's political director credentials need to be questioned if he thought Obama won the debate. He was much too deferential to Clinton. She won by simply not getting into a name-calling brawl with Sen. Obama. He actually looked like he was auditioning (or hedging his bets should he not win the nomination) for the VP spot on the ticket. His "we both agree" and "clearly, both of us" was not to his advantage. Differentiating on Iraq is a losing issue as the country has moved on and it is accepted that either candidate will move to end the war if elected.

Obama's momentum ended last night.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

erik — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:50:51 GMT

i get a little tired of hearing about romney's faith. i'm an "evangelical" by most of the media's definition, and I take no issue with Romney because of his faith. Mormons I've found usually have even higher moral standards then your run of the mill Christian! My qualms were that he was a flip flopper of convenience, that he changed his positions to align more with social conservatives not long before his run for president. maybe he did have a genuine change of heart, but it smacks of pandering to me.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Independent Voter — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:51:43 GMT

"Right" on day one - Obama '08

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

greg opelika alabama — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:52:22 GMT

clinton is the best , because she hyas the know how to get things done . joe biden put it so nicely . we have not got time to train some body to be president. hillary clinton has extreme knowledge of the political sysyem where obama , that sounds like a muslim does not .

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

kristoph, wa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:53:15 GMT

Did Iraq tip the debate to Obama? (60% thought Clinton won)

Since the sample group did not think so why do you inject your opinion into the narrative? As a journalist, should not report the news, not make it?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

NY, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:53:27 GMT

I don't know how anyone can say that Hillary did not win that debate. I will even say Obama did better than any of his previous debates, but Hillary was clearly the better candidate. I do think Obama wins the Iraq vote argument, but going forward, they both have the same policy when it comes to Iraq.

I think we can put the experience issue to rest. Hillary's resume of experience clearly doubles that of Obama. When she was naming off all the things she did as first lady, it made me wonder, what the hell has Laura Bush been doing for 7 years?

As for the media, they were completely lost after the debate. They new Hillary won, but MSNBC only talked about the Iraq part of the debate, not mentioning the rest of the debate. I don't know what has happened to Keith Olberman, but he has now become as biased against Hillary as Chris Matthews. I think it's a shame what has happened to MSNBC. I don't know if the word has come down from GE to back Obama, but, if you watch MSNBC, you can see they are reading off a list of talking points against Hillary. How is it that Pat Buchanan is now the only one who tells the truth? Keith, and the rest acted like they only talked about Iraq for an hour and a half. They refuse to acknowledge anything good about Hillary. If I was Dan Abrams, I would leave that network and try to get on CNN. I would hate to see him get dragged down into the gutter like Keith Olberman has. MSNBC is now the new Fox News. At least CNN has some people that tell the truth on their network, but they also have a slight slant for Obama, but nothing close to MSNBC. I'm not going to give CNN a free pass, because they also have some tools on that show who will never say anything good for Hillary, but they are the lesser of the three evils. I will also no longer be watching MSNBC.

Winner of the debate- The American People, then Hillary with Obama coming in a respectable runner up.

Loser of the debate-MSNBC, and the Republicans

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Union Baby, Tennessee — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:53:37 GMT

Chuck, Good for you, excellent post. I agree, there is way too much agressive passion going around and a lot of that is from pretend Democrats who are really republicans incognito.
One thing I can tell you for sure, I will vote for whom ever our nominee is in Nov. While I have my own personal preferance, no doubt either would be better than anything the republicans have to offer, so I sure hope Serria and J Merle join me in voting for our nominee regardless of who it is. both of these people have some great ideas about running this nation. And for all those who want less govt - my advice to you and your big companies: clean up your act before we have to make you. If you don't pollute the earth, if you don't act in a disgusting greedful manner, if you don't treat your employees like dirt, then maybe we would not need laws to make you act responsible.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Eric, Monticello, Illinois — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:54:02 GMT

I'm an Obama supporter from Illinois.
I believe that the evangelicals and other conservative Republicans are not behind McCain. I believe while Obama may not get their votes, many of them would stay home. However, their hatred of the Clintons will cause them to come out and vote against her. It is not necessarily her fault, but the Republicans really don't like the Clintons. I also think that Obama has a better chance to win independents and moderate Republicans. Bottom Line: I believe that their policies and views are quite similar, but that Obama is more electable.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Penny — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:56:50 GMT

I am Canadian. But to answer your question, the first thing I look for is trustworthiness. I feel everything else depends on this. If you can't trust your Canadate to be forthright and honest, how can you believe a word they say about anything else? I respect Mr. Edwards for his humility in admitting he made a human, very regrettable, mistake with his War vote. Refreshing. He didn't spin it, he took responsibility.

A few thoughts from a neighbour...

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Dora Olivares, Gering, NE — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:57:13 GMT

If Hilary Clinton becomes the Democratic nominee, a Republican will be our next president. I will not vote for Hilary for 3 reasons: Gennifer Flowers, Paula Jones, Monica Lewinsky. The Republicans will be like sharks on a feeding frenzy dragging out all the skeletons in the Clinton's closet. Hilary is very intelligent but putting up with her husband's many infidelities tells me she lacks judgement.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

NY, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:57:24 GMT

CNN didn't do the Democratic Party any favor last night by filling the audience with celebrities. Maybe that's good for CNN to have those folks to cut to during the broadcast, but it only feeds into the perception that Hollywood and the Democratic Party are inseparable, and that perception hasn’t always been a winner for Democrats at the ballot box.

If this isn't more proof that MSNBC is now the new fox, they are repeating that all celebrities are tools and can't be politcally active. Unless, your Arnold, then that's okay, right?

This biased coverage by your network is now bordering on gross.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Amy B Portland, ME — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:57:32 GMT

Chuck, NY
I started out supporting Hillary, then I switched to Edwards, even flirted with Richardsen, till I finally succumbed to Obama. It hit me like a ton of bricks, watching him on a minor talk show, I suddenly realized how bright he is, and, for lack of a better word, savvy. Hillary, on the other hand, as bright as she is, seems to have a blind spot you could drive a truck through. She is not a good judge of character, in my mind. I see her as an abused child who grew up to be an abused spouse, who equates "strength" with having rigid defenses. In terms of policy, her defense of health care mandates tells me she has a tin ear for American sales language. I realize this is a very right-brain explanation of why I support Obama, but there it is, and I am a white, 49 year old woman.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lia — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:57:34 GMT

Chuck,

I don't want to change your mind, but do want to offer some thoughts. I am in a line of work that has afforded me an opportunity to meet lots of U.S. elected officials - primarily from Congress (including several of the folks running for president this cycle). Two years ago, I met Obama. This was before all the hoopla, and the person Obama was scheduled to meet kept the Senator cooling his heels for a bit, while that person was meeting with someone else.
So, it was just Obama and myself for 30-40 minutes. We chatted about sports, different places we both had lived, Iraq, family, and a few other topics. I found him to be decent, genuine, smart, thoughtful - in other words, unusual for an elected official. And the kind of person you wouldn't mind living next door to or being your office cubicle mate. I also thought from our conversation that he possessed the type of judgment and thoughtfulness to lead our country.
That evening after that meeting, I called my relatives all over the U.S. and said that if this guy ran for president, they had to vote for him.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, MD — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:59:00 GMT

Chuck, I would rather put someone who had been close and personal to the Presidency and who have been working on military issues and have great knowledge about foreign affairs, someone who understands the economic problems and that have plans to deal with them in charge than someone like Obama who will be learning on the job. We are faced with too many issues to have somebody with no experience on the seat of Presidency. All, I know is that come November, democrats will unite with the nominee and against the republican nominee.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

sg, michigan — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:01:11 GMT

Both Clinton and Obama are nearly identical on the issues. It appears the only real difference is personality.

Obama appears more honest and straightforward. Perhaps he has suffered a few scandals, but they pale in comparison to his colleages. At best, he will clean house. At worst, he may get mired in typical DC politics like Carter did.

Clinton on the other hand is a strong candidate. She is well versed in spin, divisive tactics and arm-twisting. And that's a genuine asset in Washington, DC! But it's merely the same old setting we've had in the Capitol since the 90's. This just brings everyone low.

Furthermore, the Oval Office has lately treated our constitution like an oily rag. They have abused the office with its secrecy agenda. Perhaps they do this to protect America? Inevitably this kind of secrecy is used to cover up scandals and incompetency. Stay tuned for details.

All things considered, I feel Obama will provide the best future for America. He addresses his shortcomings head on (read his book). He learns from his mistakes. He makes sound judgements. He delivers inspiration. We need a fresh start.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mark, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:02:50 GMT

Both candidates are qualified to be president. The question you have to ask yourself is whether you want to relive the Clinton presidency all over again. Think about 8 more years of hedging and power struggles that have defined the Clintons' time in Washington. Think about whether Republicans in Washington will actually want to cross the line and support initiatives from Hillary. Think about another election where the lines are drawn between red and blue states and the election boils down to Florida and Ohio. An Obama campaign radically changes the scene. He gets support from Independents, moderate Republicans, men, and young voters. What other Democrat can claim that? I'm ready to move forward and leave the 90's behind.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lisa T, Columbia, MO — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:03:09 GMT

Chuck, here are my responses. It's hard to explain why and still be succinct, but I'll try. I'm voting for Obama.
1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
I believe more Republicans would be willing to work with Barack than Hillary, so more would be accomplished. The President needs Congress to be willing to work with him or her. There is a strong anti-Hillary sentiment among Republicans. She gets much higher "negatives" in polling data I've seen, as well. I think Barack will do more to draw the country together and help heal some of our division (political, racial, etc.).
2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?
Intelligence. I think he's "thoughtful", in that he would consider his decisions very carefully and get input from others when he thinks it is needed. I know the "inspirational" thing is overplayed and can sound hokey, but I think it's important to have a President who makes us proud to be Americans and to want to work together to realize our country's potential.
3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?
See #1 above. No one baits Republicans like the mere mention of Hillary's name. The Religious Right will have a massive turnout. On the fence Republicans will come out just to make sure she's not elected. I think Hillary as the nominee guarantees a Republican as President (again). At this point, I care more about having *a* Dem in the White House than I do about which particular one (although I still prefer Barack).
Hillary's position on the war is muddled. And, as Barack pointed out, her votes have often been the same as the GOP. Barack's stand has always been against the war, a clear difference between himself and the Republicans, chiefly McCain, the most likely Rep. nominee. As most Democrats are opposed to the Iraq war, I think Barack better represents the views and interests of the party.

Good luck in your decision making.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jeff, Austin — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:03:30 GMT

Both candidates started out soft and strong; it appeared another kumbaya debate was about to take place.And then came Iraq and Clinton once again showed why the issue has been such an Achilles heel.

Obama just has an easier time talking about his position. Clinton has to sit there and re-explain why she was for it and why she's not for it now. It's never a good moment.

Did Iraq question tip the debate to Barack Obama?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1673

.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lewis, Cincinnait, Ohio — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:03:40 GMT

Chuck, I'm supporting Obama b/c he's calling on americans to take back our country. When he speaks, he not only states what he's going to do to make our country better--he asks for our help to make our country better. Generally, young and old people have become so cynical about our leaders and government. Obama has made a lot people believe again. With that type of "pay it forward", I beleive great things can happen.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Pat, Vancouver, WA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:04:12 GMT

It has become painfully obvious that the days of objective journalism are long gone. MSNBC spares no effort in bashing Clinton at every opportunity and praising Obama to the skies. It's as if you received a memo from NBC's top executives entitled "How Our Media Can Help Undermine Democracy." Shame on you!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Pat, Boston, MA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:04:57 GMT

Barack Obama is my choice. It would be such a shame if he isn't given an opportunity to show this country just exactly what change means.

It is so important for younger generations to become involved in this campaign. Afterall, it is their future that is at stake.

Barack Obama did not want to invade Iraq. He stated and is on record: There was no evidence that Iraq had WMD's.

Hillary Clinton did not do her homework before she cast her vote. At the very least, she could have done her best to persuade GWB to "wait" until there was more concrete evidence of WMD's. She did not. I'd like to know just what was the rush for going into Iraq when we did? She has become part of the "mob mentality" we all see in DC.

Barack Obama wants to change the mindset of this country's willingness to go to war.

He gets it: we need to create a mindset of PEACE, which takes just as much of a commitment as war does.

He's a good man, he's a smart man, he's a serious man. Not the empty suit people claim him to be. Having just the two of them debating last night was indeed a good showcase for Senator Obama.

And I agree with him: We need someone who is not only going to be ready on day one, we need someone who is going to be right on day one.

We haven't seen that for years and years in DC.

It is our responsibility to give future generations a chance in life for the American Dream. That chance is fading for millions of them.

I think Barack Obama would be very good for this country at this moment in time.

Change. It's a good thing.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Adam/Brooklyn New York City — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:05:29 GMT

Hillary Clinton is my senator, and I think she'd make a fine choice for president. She's smart, she's right on most issues, and she shares my liberal values. I'd be pleased with her as president and she'd be a big change.

But, I will never forgive her vote for the Iraq War. She represents a city that was attacked and she diverted funds and resources AWAY from fighting the people that attacked it. Not to mention it was an AINSANE idea to invade Iraq. If anyone should've known Saddam wasn't a threat, it's her. Remember the experience she talks about? Her Husband just got out of the White House two years earlier. She knew Saddam was no imminent threat, or gathering or grave threat. She knew he was contained. She knew it was a crazy mission.

Her vote was political with an eye on '08. She thought Bush would be easily successful and she wanted to look tough on security because of what looked like a new political climate. She ended up looking stupid. Not to mention the fact that there are perhaps a million people in the world who are now dead or disfigured because of that decision.

Her vote for the Iraq War has always been my deciding factor with Hillary Clinton. And, I think that’s her biggest flaw. Everyone has made their mind up about Hillary Clinton and there’s not much she could do or say to change anyone’s mind.

Barack Obama is an equally strong choice for president based on merits. His values are the same as Hillary’s. Both would protect the courts. Both would be a change. However, Hillary will simply change the party in the White House, where as Obama will bring his new voters and independents and create a new majority in this country. I think and Obama administration could have the ability to put an end to a lot of debates we liberals are desperate to win.

Hillary will change the White House, but Obama will change the country and perhaps the world. It’s gotta be Obama ‘08.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Robert, Sacramento CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:06:30 GMT

Looks like Ron Paul will place quite highly in the money vs delegates list. He's raised over $20m so far, and I think he has just four delegates?

Just goes to show that good common sense can still prevail over boatloads of cash.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, Mundelein, IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:06:46 GMT

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?

Obama listens to people. Over 250,000 donations were made to his campaign in January alone. He has made every effort for contributions not to come from pharmaceutical companies, oil companies, or lobbyists. I believe Clinton's main argument against Obama is a lack of experience. This is where I believe endorsements from the likes of Senators Kennedy and Kerry come into play. Obama is young and has not lived in the White House before, however, his co-workers are putting their names on the line to say he is as qualified as anyone. In addition, while Sen. Clinton tries to say "we shouldn't look to the past" (refering to her Iraq vote), I feel that Obama has a point when he says that while she insists she will be "ready to lead the country from day one", the past judgement of the two candidates shows that he will make better decisions from day one. I also do not like the fact that Senator Clinton does not admit the Iraq vote was wrong in hindsight...admit your mistakes.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?

I believe a major problem in this country is our standing with the rest of the world. The rest of the world will be happy to see us elect a leader who does not like the war, never supported it, and openly prefers diplomacy to aggression without letting down our guard.

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?

I believe he will defeat the GOP nominee based on his past judgement, ability to unite the American people, and ability to improve our foreign relations...do you think the average American or even Europe and the rest of the world for that matter really want to see McCain elected to continue the war in Iraq?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Linda Brown — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:07:53 GMT

It is very, very sad, that you would suggest that's it's a accomplishment for Obama to be on the same stage as "What's her name", What has she done, Nothing!! She didn't do anything the 8 years her husband was in the White House. The entire time they were there, he was dragged through the mud for his bad behavior. What will he do for another 8 years. When there are so many serious issues our country is facing, we don't need all the focus on Bill and his sexual behaviors again, and she defending his bad behavior. I personally thought the CNN favored "What her name" over Obama. The entire debate she had much more talk time. It almost seem as though the debate was just for her....SAD!!!! And whatever Obama said, she piggy backed. You get what you ask for, look at what a mess this country is in because, of your negataive thinking...

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Chris Swartout — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:10:24 GMT

Dear Chuck,
1. There are a ton of reasons why I think Senator Obama is better suited. The Iraq vote is sort of important because Hillary keeps touting her 35 years of service, and on the single most important moment in all those 35 years BY FAR, she made the wrong choice. And I believe she did so with an eye to running for President later, thinking it would be good for her politically. To me, that is a deal breaker. I also think that, as a Democrat, Obama is far and away the best candidate because he has an opportunity to bring in the new voters to totally realign the electoral math. Did you know that 28 Republican House members are retiring? We have a huge opportunity to win a big chunk of those seats. Also, the Republicans are defending way more Senate seats this election. I have seen no evidence that Hillary will be able to get the voters to the polls that will allow us as Democrats to get control of the legislative branch. Hillary may win a general election, but she will have no coattails to speak of. That is why so many red state Dem politicians are flocking to him. They know he will help them in their states in the fall.
2. He has what it takes because he has publicly made his approach to problem solving central to his message. Cynical people give him shit because of the uplifting message, but words do matter. If elected, the country will be clearly on a new path forward. Like it or not, if Hillary is elected, the notion of any substantive change is simply not there.
3. Assuming McCain is the nominee, it is going to be much easier for Obama to draw very sharp distinctions with him in the general election. Hillary's position on the war is exactly the same with McCain's, and she will energize the base of the Republican Party in a way that will be shocking.
Also, Obama owns the change argument with McCain simply due to his youth. Seeing the 2 of them side by side will be very instructive to voters. That may sound cynical, but think back to Kennedy/Nixon. And finally, as Obama is PERCEIVED to have said nice things about Ronald Reagan, he has already given many independents a reason to consider him as a reasonable alternative to McCain.

I could go on all day, but I have to get back to my daughter. I hope you find this instructive. If I get time, I will come back to my #2 answer and elucidate it better later. Good luck with your vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

buymerc, Los Altos — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:12:13 GMT

Chuck of NY asked

I am an import into this country since 1985. Its not the country I came to anymore and here are my answers.

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?

There are many types of leaders. Barack has been characterized as inspiring leader and Clinton as 'workerbee' type leader. Regardless, there is one characteristic that Barack has - he is a reflective leader i.e. he has an unusual talent of reflecting what you want to get from him and responds - this is because he is a great listener. Hillary is a leader on her own merits, but if you follow the last month, she adopts his strategy. He seems to set the tone and she seems to be following. She would be a fantastic Secretary of State. (3rd in line for presidency)
2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?

Beauracracy for all its complaints is actually pretty good. Even with Bush, the government organizations do a pretty good job. The fault in recent years has been with the top management not the beauracracy. She wants to fix that because its a good punching bag. He wants to set the tone and mindset. Leaders can do just that. They cannot run the country. They can only set the agenda and hold people accountable. Clinton will have a penchant to meddle with various groups.
3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?

The republican party has taken this country away from what its constitution outlined. Be it in religious equality, world outlook etc etc...This is not the same country as I came to in 1984. I think its time to bring this country back to what the founding fathers outlined - restore the constitutional principles and operate within that framework instead of hijacking it - which Bush has done. Barack is the only leader who can do that. Because he knows the territory as well as having a common sense approach to both management as well decision making.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Karin Osborne, Oceanside, Ca — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:14:49 GMT

I believe Hillary Clinton is the best person to be our next President. She has worked many years long and hard to fill the position as the FIRST WOMAN President in our nation's history. Barack has many years left. I'd like to see a Clinton/O'bama ticket giving each of us what we want. If we truly live in a democracy then how about sharing the leadership roles in the White House with a woman for a CHANGE!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Frank, Macon, Ga. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:15:43 GMT

to Chuck, NY

My vote is cast for Obama because:

1. He is a leader and does not come with all the baggage Sen. Clinton does. I like the fact that he exercised independent judgement on voting against the Iraq war from the get-go.

2. He demonstrates the ability to be a real uniter and not a divider. With the amountof unity he has brought to the Democratic Party he demonstrates wide appeal which will be useful in uniting the country once agai, I like the fact that he is a man of faith and great intellect.

3. I beleive my dog, Ginger , could beat the Republican nominee, whoever it is. Seriously, MCain is the candidate of "more war, more war, more war".
Romney is the candidate of less jobs and more enrichments for the wealthy. Botha a product of and a tool of corporate greed

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tim Weeks, Preston, Idaho — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:16:11 GMT

What we have here is the TRUE WASHINGTON THUGS!!! it is McCain, Hucklebee, New York top law breaker, ganging up on Romney! Why? Becuase they do not want change, they are padding their pockets, via Washington insider jobs. Now, what are we going to do about it???? I truly think we should all support Romney to go independant and win, get Obama as VP turn Washington upside down, and we the people take back OUR CAPITAL. McCain cannot beat Romney one on one, so he and his thugs have joined together to keep Washington satis as is, keep the WAR FOREVER!!! Oh, and whatever we do lets not forever ALL THE ILLEGALS, bringing up the crime satis everywhere, watch your news channels 90% of the time, the crime commited by Illegals.
We really need to do something NOW!!!! No health insurance!!! High Gas Prices!!! and the Washington insiders getting richer every minute. Gosh I hope Hannity and Limbaugh lead us to a revolution, and do it NOW!!! But, if Romney threatens to go independant, that will shock the Republican Party leaders into fairness, and going with what the real Republicans want to see happen, a leader for our economy! If McCain gets the nod I swear to vote, Democrat unless there is a independant choice!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Citizen X, America — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:18:12 GMT

I'm undecided but leaning towards Clinton. I like Obama, but he has no record working in Washington and seems to have been campaigning for President since he got there. This countries policies (foreign, economic, and domestic)need to be fixed after such a screwup in the White House. I think Clinton understands the operation better and will be better on Day 1. If I'm getting an operation or having my car fixed, I want an experienced specialist or mechanic.

A Clinton/Obama ticket would be a winner for me.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Gerald Fisher — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:19:13 GMT

Such a dilemma ! ! ! Do Dems select:
Someone who knows the problems well (frequently because she was part of the problem) and has the skill and experience in Washington to actually get things done. Think Johnson and the Equal Rights Act of 1964.
Or
Someone who is ‘good of heart’ but may well not know how to manipulate the system because he hasn’t been part of the system long enough to know how to work it.

Clinton or Obama as President?

Do I think Senator Clinton will be as ‘gutsy?’ No, she is too politically pragmatic.
Senator Obama – don’t know. But the itch in the back of my neck tells me that his more left leaning tendencies (as reflected in his Senate voting record) combined with a Democratic controlled Senate will lose the Dems the House in either 2010 or 2012 (or will lock in the Dems for at least 3 election cycles). Now this is the real question (and ‘crap-shoot’). Do we take the chance and go for broke or for safety in politically pragmatic moderation?
Many pundits said that Senator Kennedy (and family) endorsed Obama to reject everything Bill was saying – my gut is no, it was mostly about her more center-than-left voting record.

And then toss the real question into the mix: Who really can beat McCain?

Chuck, Glad to be of help.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Brian Mullinax, Greenville, SC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:19:13 GMT

No other person besides Jesus has every inspired me the way Barack Obama has.He's analitical,forthecoming,and soulful.He has all the attributes of Clinton with none of the drawbacks.I do,however,believe it is time for both to seperate themselves.This weak,pansy attitude that has befallen the Democrats needs to end.It's time for a new American path.Hillary only claims experience when beneficial.She hasn't yet claimed responsibility for the failed NAFTA policy or deregulating banks.But she'll accept gratitude for healthcare reform, yet healthcare has gotten worse in the last 30 years.I also think that Obama's healthcare plan is more likely to be accepted by Republicans -- being that it is much more centrist.By the way y'all, Hill-Dog still hasn't appologized for the war vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

U havegot2bekidding — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:19:53 GMT

Ann Coulter on Fox News:: I will VOTE for and campaign for Hillary Clinton!!! The "crack" factor kicks in

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, CT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:20:06 GMT

Once again the MuStNotBeClinton network is so blinded by Obama's beauty that they don't see the obvious. You nitpick the Iraq points hoping it will give Obama the edge but you forgot two important points. First, it is the economy, stupid. Iraq is just not as important as jobs, education and health care.

Second, it's about women, stupid. I work with mostly women. They have never talked politics in the office until this morning. When I got in today, they were all thrilled with Hillary's performance and couldn't talk enough about it. It was out of the blue and really amazing to listen to. I think Hillary's performance played beautifully to the women vote. They were proud of her, loved her wit on the Bush/Clinton remark, and are genuinely proud of her as their fighter and representative. That was the key to this debate and why Hillary wins it hands down. Obama did a great job and was very presidential. He presented his case well. But Hillary solidified and energized her base, a base you in the media have pretty much been ignoring and one that is and will be the real difference in this election, the women voters.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

John Moody, Savannah GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:21:53 GMT

I notice all of a sudden Iraq is important to the media now that they think Hillary had a problem with the issue last night.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Fred C Dobbs, Sierra Madre, N.M. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:22:02 GMT

I enjoyed watching the debate on CNN. MSNBC is not the place where I go to for election comedy - The Chris and Keith Comedy Hour!

Hillary's response to the health care coverage was excellent. On Iraq, they will both end the war and that is a good thing.

This was an excellent setting for Clinton to get her message out to the public. I am 61 and have voted in 10 presidential elections and always Democratic. That is why I will be supporting Hillary Clinton, no more chances with an Al Gore or John Kerry type.

And there are a lot of us who remember how Ted left Mary Jo Kopechne to drown and used his family name to buy his way out of it. Over 38 years later and he is still trading on his dead brothers! A Ted Kennedy endorsement - what does that tell you of Obama and a new way forward!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sierra, SF — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:23:39 GMT

One CNN commentator mentioned that Hillary HAD to offer the VP slot to Obama to try to neutralize the 'race baiting'

She also said Obama WOULDN'T want to offer her the VP slot because Hillary's TOO DIVISIVE

Obama/Biden '08 ?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

commonsenepoliticstoday — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:23:56 GMT

I thought Obama gave a dazzling performance during this debate. Intellectually powerful, well and deeply thought-out policies based on sound judgment. If you didn't see him as a clear and powerful authority and winner, well, I guess we just live on different planets.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

J of Ark — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:24:02 GMT

The issues surrounding the moral argument of why we went to Iraq will wilt in a general election. It will pivot to: who wants to stay (Republicans) vs. who wants to get out (Dems). So while the pundits want to draw a line in the sand between Obama and Clinton on judgment and decision making on Iraq, the real point is that Obama made a speech about the war when he was never asked to vote for any legislation. I was against the war too - but I wasn’t in the Senate and didn’t have all the pressures to bear in casting a vote that had real consequences. I had no insight into national intelligence, and I didn’t have any promises from “W” and the WH (and neither did Mr. Obama). So both of our choices were much easier to make - we had to pay no consequences if we were right - or if we were wrong. Hillary had to vote – and she made that vote based on information she had at the time – we now know that her vote and the votes of many other Democrats in her same position, gave our President license to go to an ill-fought and ill-fated war, and we now need to get out, something both candidates will do.

Hillary in the debate certainly showed she has a better health care plan approach than what sounds to be a piece-meal plan put forth by Sen. Obama. Hers is a melded plan with the true intent of covering everyone. Sen. Obama is naive if he believes all people will voluntarily purchase insurance – I am close to this field, and see the opposite being true all the time. She also seemed to have a better understating of what illegal immigration has done to hard working minority owned companies, who can longer compete for contracts, as unlawful employers hire illegal and abused laborers from Mexico and undercut wages. He says these minority owned companies are simply "scape-goating" illegals (lots of data to disprove this is the case). Finally - if you listen carefully to Sen. Obama's final comments on the driver’s license issue, he seems to finally actually agree with Sen. Clinton - which suggest - he is suggestible and opportunistic. I like someone who stakes out policy and sticks with it - Sen. Clinton is that candidate in this head-to-head match-up. She's not perfect, but he is inexperienced and will be tempted to twist in the wind as more and more political tsunamis come at him in these very turbulent times.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:24:36 GMT

Obama's 2002 Iraq speech

http://www.barackobama.com/2002/10/02/remarks_of_illinois_state_sen.php

Obama on Charlie Rose
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5456752353400414374

Barack Obama 2002 Iraq interview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXzmXy226po

Barack Obama (HRC gave GWB blank check)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZ-rdZ2TcII&NR=1

Hillary Clinton on Iraq
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyC7loMop58&feature=related

Clinton Smears Obama on Iraq — Again
http://www.motherjones.com/mojoblog/archives/2008/01/6850_clinton_smears.html

----------continued--

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Deanne, IA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:24:56 GMT

I am a 30-something, white female and I support Barack Obama. Barack Obama is better suited to be President because he 1)offers Americans a realistic, affordable health care plan, 2)He has proven that he can reach across party lines for the geeater good of the American people. This is important for our next President because that is the only way we can move forward and repair the damage that has been inflicted on our country (ie. health care costs, gas prices, the view other countries have of the US), 3)Senator Obama spoke out against the war in Iraq when the "experienced" candidate(s) voted for it, and 4) Senator Obama does not take lobbyist or PAC monies, whereas Senator Clinton does. I have yet to hear her justify this stance.

I believe that Senator Obama can lead this country because part of leading is getting Americans engaged in the process. He not only inspires people, he unites people, he empowers people. The key word here being "people" - not just Democrats. Imagine a future where Congress passes legislation that allows ALL Americans to accomplish their goal of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as our constitution intended.

Lastly, I think that Senator Obama can beat the GOP nominee because of all the reasons stated above. In addition (with all due respect), I have talked to too many voters who empatically state that they will not vote for Senator Clinton. These voters are adamant Democrats, Independents, and even Republicans who are considering a new direction. The people of the United States are ready for change, fresh ideas, and a new direction. Senator Clinton does not offer this.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Chris Swartout — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:25:02 GMT

One more thing Chuck in NY.

People think Obama is not tough enough for a general election. They are wrong and here is why. Last Monday, Obama made a conscious decision to inject Bill Clinton into the center of the campaign, knowing the press AND Bill would take the bait. The debate became largely about Bill and Hillary, in that order. Then the entire week's news was about Bill being out of control. Obama planted that seed himself and it paid off hugely in South Carolina. And now Bill has been effectively cut out of the narrative. Obama basically said to Hillary "You can't control him, so I will." And that is exactly what he did. He and his people know exactly what they are doing.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

shirlin — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:25:13 GMT

Bill Clinton is now attacking Ted Kennedy in his speeches. Why? Because Kennedy has endorsed Obama and apparently criticized Bill for his race-tainted baiting of the Obama campaign. He is doing this even as Hillary was making nice to Obama and the Democratic Party in last night's debate, at which Bill was present. Is this what our Democratic Party needs, to have the ex-President turn on and tear down our most revered and respected Democratic Party statesperson? Is this the co-president we want back in the WH? Our super delegates MUST wake up and represent us party nmembers fairly and well. The Clinton dynasty-tas have only their lust for power fueling them. They do not hold the good for either our party nor our country in mind in their destructive and relentless quest for ultimate victory. They are truly the return of the dark forces.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

CJ, Eagle Pass, Texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:26:00 GMT

I was angered by Obama's statement that there was no illegal immigration problem other than sealing the border. I have seen wages in the construction field plummet with the introduction of illegal immigrant waiver along with hospitals and social services destroyed by the influx of illegal labor. Blaming Republican economic policies is only an excuse to deny the fact the illegal immigration is a real threat to this country. How will we correct this problem if we elect someone who won’t even acknowledge the source of the problem? That said, Ms. Clinton didn’t seem to want to acknowledge it either.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sierra, SF — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:26:20 GMT

From Huffington Post:

'...
The Huffington Post
Welcome | Edit preferences | Logout | February 1, 2008 Log In | Sign Up | February 1, 2008 Home Politics Media Business Entertainment Living More on HuffPost... Politics HuffPolitics OffTheBus Fundrace Media Eat The Press Business Entertainment Living All Blogs All News 23/6 23/6 Home > The News > Clinton Co-Chair Took Che... Site Web

Antoin Rezko, Barack Obama, fundraising, Hillary Clinton, rezko fundraiser
Clinton Co-Chair Took Checks From Rezko
MICHAEL R. BLOOD | January 31, 2008 10:58 PM EST |

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Read More: Antoin Rezko, Barack Obama, Fundraising, Hillary Clinton, Rezko Fundraiser, Breaking Politics News

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LOS ANGELES — Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, a national co-chair of Hillary Rodham Clinton's presidential campaign, banked at least $7,500 in political donations linked to an indicted Chicago businessman whose past connections to Barack Obama have been used by Clinton to criticize her rival.

City records show Antoin Rezko, idenfitied as chairman of Rezmar Corp. of Chicago, contributed $1,000 to Villaraigosa's mayoral campaign in May 2001. Those records show Rezko also donated $500 to another Villaraigosa political committee in March 2003.

Records show Villaraigosa received at least another $6,000 from people or businesses with connections to Rezko.

Asked to confirm whether the mayor received donations from Rezko, spokesman Sean Clegg said "the contributions are currently under review."

Clegg said Villaraigosa doesn't know Rezko and was unaware whether Rezko or any of his companies were doing business with the city, or bidding on city contracts.

"The contributions from 2001 and 2003 were long before any issues related to Tony Rezko became public," Clegg said.

The donations could prove to be a political embarrassment for Clinton, who accused Obama in a South Carolina debate of representing Rezko "in his slum landlord business" when Obama was a young Chicago lawyer....'

Rexko DIDN'T get a photo-op with the Clintons without CONTRIBUTING

How much did Rexko give Billary ?

How often ?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:26:21 GMT

Bill Clinton 2003 (in 2007 He says something different)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWm8riukyeM

Barack Obama: The quote he(B Clinton) keeps on feeding back was an interview on 'Meet the Press' at the National Convention when Tim was asking, 'Given your firm opposition to the war, what do you make of the fact that your nominee for president and vice president didn't have that same foresight.' And obviously I didn't want to criticize them on the eve of their nomination.
''But, I'm not privy to Senate intelligence reports,'' Mr. Obama said. ''What would I have done? I don't know. What I know is that from my vantage point the case was not made.'' And: "What I don't think was appropriate was the degree to which Congress gave the president a pass on this."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PP0AeT3VUgM

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

Question: Clinton campaign saying in a conference call earlier today that there is no difference in their record on war in Iraq because both voted for war funding:

“Sen. Clinton started off trying to make history and now she’s trying to rewrite it. She’s trying to rewrite it about my record and hers.”

“In 2002, I made a clear and unequivocal statement before 3,000 people that this war was a bad idea.” He said he was against the war in 2003 and 2004 also.

“Now she chose to vote for the war and she can decide whether it’s a mistake or not. Apparently she has not said anything about it. For her to suggest somehow that half of a sentence that I uttered in 2004 in a setting in which I was trying not to throw the Democratic nominee and vice presidential nominee under the bus, after Tim Russert specifically asked me since you were so opposed to the war, what do you think about the fact that they weren’t, to take that out of context and try to suggest my position and hers is the same is ludicrous. There is not objective observer of this who thinks at all that this argument is credible. And what’s stunning is not only are they trying to distort my record, this is coming from Bill Clinton who is trying to suggest that he opposed the war from the start, something that everybody again who has looked at this objectively is puzzled by.”
Q: then why did he vote for war funding

A: “Once we had our troops two years into a war, it was important that we try to do the best possible job on it. So is Sen. Clinton’s argument is that the only people who were principled about this were people who voted against funding all the time, if that’s the case, she should talk to Ted Kennedy and Barbara Boxer (war critics who also voted for the funding). Apparently they weren’t against the war the entire time.”

http://thepage.time.com/full-comments-from-obamas-vegas-media-availability/

------------
RIGHT ON DAY ONE
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNHqvGBqjuc&eurl=http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/samgrahamfelsen/CGCCj

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Keith (NY) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:27:13 GMT

Chuck,

Obama, showed during the pre-Iraq invasion debate in 2002, a clear ability to remain calm, insightful, prophetic, while nearly all Democratic elders including Hillary all basically said to Bush "we believe you, we trust you". Obama loudly, publicly challenged Bush that the evidence he presented for war had not been looked at closely enough. I can't think of any current noted political person who was more accurate about why Iraq would turn into a complete mess than Barack Obama.

Your point about Clinton fatigue is well founded as far as Democrats go. Combine that with a very real hatred of the Clintons by a near half the country and you have a potential disaster awaiting us in November. It would be unacceptable to lose to the Republicans again after the disaster of George Bush. Hillary Clinton gives them a very real chance to keep the White House.

Obama isn't going to be a dictator (unlike Cheney). He will certainly be his own man and have his own clear directions but he will be surrounded by people like Pelosi, Biden, Richardson, Kennedy, and Hillary as she would still be a very important senator from NY. He can always call on Bill I'm sure as he can with Al Gore and Jimmy Carter. John Edwards may very well be a part of his cabinet. Obama can craft his own visions while at the same time relying on his party for guidance/teamwork during critical matters.

To me, Obama movement (it's not just him...it's the growing gathering of people extremely excited about our future) is just such an obvious supernova for the future of the Democratic party. There are intangibles beyond the necessary intelligence to be a good president. Obama is the walking definition of charismatic. It's a key ingredient in getting different people together to accomplish goals. By the time November rolls around Obama will be an accepted part of the country's mind set. He will be even higher in the polls then as he is now. It might take the Republicans 20 years to recover from an Obama administration.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jason, Windsor Mill, MD — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:27:35 GMT

Chuck,
Even though I'm inclined to tell you to just listen to your heart after doing the research on the two candidates, I'll attempt to answer your questions:

1) The constitution never laid out a set of requirements for being president aside from being a US citizen and 35 years old. With that in mind, I don't really believe there is any body of work that makes you uniquely qualified to be president. One of the biggest challenges a president has is convincing the American people that they need to make certain sacrifices in order to tackle our really big problems and I just don't think Hillary is capable of inspiring that kind of ownership and passion. On the other hand, Obama has placed emphasis on "we the people" during his entire campaign and I have no reason to believe that will change after he's elected.

I guess I answered the second question with my last remark. As far as your third question, I think South Carolina demonstrated that Obama can win in closed primary scenarios, but when the primaries and caucuses are open, no one has demonstrated the ability to bring along independents and republicans like Obama.

Many other countries the world over are paying attention to our election and I personally believe that nothing can begin to mend the damage GWB has done during his administration faster than seeing a non-old, non-white man running the country. It restores the sense that anything is possible in this country and that in the future we could not only see a woman as president, but even an asian or latino-american person regarless of gender, religion or all the other multitudes of things that have separated Americans in this country.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sierra, SF — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:27:42 GMT

From the Washington Post:

'...Obama Picks Up House Endorsements
By Shailagh Murray

Rep. John Larson today became the first senior member
of the House Democratic leadership to endorse a
presidential candidate, and his pick is Sen. Barack
Obama. The Connecticut lawmaker, who serves as vice
chairman of the House Democratic caucus, expects to
campaign back home with Obama early next week, in
advance of his state's Feb. 5 primary.

Also announcing for Obama this morning: Rep. Anna
Eshoo (D-Calif.), a close friend of House Speaker
Nancy Pelosi. Eshoo joins another Californian and
Pelosi pal, Rep. George Miller, on the Obama
bandwagon. Rep. Xavier Becerra, an up-and-coming
lawmaker from Los Angeles, is yet another Pelosi ally
supporting Obama.

Pelosi has said firmly that she won't pick sides. But
she sounded almost giddy talking about Ted Kennedy's
support for the Illinois senator in an interview with
her hometown newspaper, the San Francisco Chronicle
(which also endorsed Obama). "Did you ever see
anything like that?" Pelosi said. "Transferring the
mantle from John F. Kennedy to Barack Obama. It was
the most stunning thing. I mean, I couldn't take my
eyes off it."...'

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

sakina azim — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:29:29 GMT

1.Senator Obama is better suited to be POTUS because he showed a great sense of judgement in speaking out against the war. The singlemost important duty of any president is to prevent his/her country from going to war and to keep his people from harm's way which senator obama showed great strength and wisdom in that. Whereas Ms. Hillary with all her '35'yrs. of experience could not make a wise decision and voted for iraq war( her dem. collegues like biden,kucinich with their exp. voted against it) and sent thousands of soldiers to their premature DEATH!!! With her dumb decision she is reponsible for their deaths and have killed Americans and put them in harm's way. How is she different than Bush in this regard? and how can anyone even think that she should be a world leader making split second decisions wisely involving millions of american lives. Would you trust her with your children's lives knowing that she has made the biggest blunder in history? Regardless of how well she parrots off on policies she still has a failed healthcare plan in the past with all her 'experience' when she had a chance as the first lady to make a difference, she failed to do so. She is an overambitious senator who wants to piggyback on her husband's record and with an establishment of influential super rich lobbyists with their own agendas she wants to fullfill her long held dream of becoming POTUS. We got to stop this dynastic mentality if you want to see true demoncracy in USA before preaching it to other countries!
2. The single most quality that stands out in Senator obama is that he is a uniter (of blacks and whites, young and old, dems and rep.) which is the most important quality of a great leader; and his wisdom to oppose the war.His appeal is so universal and his eloquence creates a movement of its own, his strength of character and integrity and consistency in his stances on various things and above all a sensitive and a caring heart which shows in his family life and how he treats his opponents; and his views on meeting with leaders of the enemy countries; is more than enough to recognize that he possesses all the necessary qualities required to be an outstanding leader who came this far on his own steam with no political washington machine backing, who can change history by bringing people together and reaching a higher moral ground which this country deserves.
3. Its very clear the contrast he presents against the rep. on the biggest debacle in the history of this nation- iraq war which by the way 70% of rep. thinks was a bad idea.He is for immediate troop withdrawl vs keeping the troops for an indefinite time in iraq. On the economy, oil prices, energy policies, universal healthcare, tax cuts,etc. He presents his case with rationality and pragmatism vs. hillary's polorizing personality and bush-like policies which divides this nation against blacks and white, latinos against blacks, etc.He contrasts against the rep. in education like meritpay for teachers, a universal prek to give a good foundation to the young in order to suceed and compete with other nations, college tuitions, tax break,etc. All his policies are built to benefit the lower to upper middle class people( from infants to the elderly) which is the largest percent in this country.
It is time to take back what we middle class people deserve, to reach out for our goals and hopes and dreams and vote for the right person in this historical election. Be a part of history making to change this world when we can. We hold the power and we will vote with our conscience

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jim, Santa Cruz — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:29:34 GMT

Chuck - I started out this process leaning towards Clinton because of Bill's and her previous White House experience, but the more I hear Obama, the more I like him, and now I will vote for him. The overiding factor is that he communicates more inspirationally than Hillary, call it eloquence if you like. This is important from a number of aspects. First, he'll be able to communicate his ideas more clearly to the American people, not that Hillary can't, but Barrack can do it better. Second, he will get the respect of foreign leaders who should consider him more than just a figurehead as they see the current president. He's also more in control of his demeanor - I think he's be a better poker player than Hillary, therefore he'd be better at playing the international intrigue game with foreign leaders. And finally, I am comparing these attributes of his to Hillary, who is marginally inferior to him, but he and she are in another league compared to any of the republicans.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

TAW, Maryland — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:31:02 GMT

I am voting for Obama and answer your questions as follows:

1 - I feel that Obama is the better candidate for president because he is not a Washington insider. In order to be a career politician there are a lot of handshake deals and behind the scenes positioning that comes along with the job and additionally there are a lot of favors given and in return a lot of debts owed. To me those debts and deals is baggage that will slow down the chance of any real change in Washington, Obama offers a fresh start.

2 - Obama well educated, well liked, has worked with the people and for the people for decades as an advocate and has been in the Illinois state legislature as a reform agent before entering the senate. He brings with him hope of the youth and a change from what has become a presidency if you have the right name. He also represents America. He calls himself African American, but he is also: but is bi-racial and represents all people of mixed race, the son of an immigrant, the son of a Caucasian, has an Asian Stepfather, a full African sister and a half Asian half sister. He is Christian but accepts that religious freedom is a necessity. He is the diversity that America was created upon. He is intelligent, thoughtful and people tend to stop and listen to what he has to say and he has integrity. Aren't those important attributes for the leader of the free world.

3 - Obama can pull in independents and those who purely hate the Clintons. He is the best bet to beat McCain who can pull in Independents as well. Also I think HRC will have a hard time pulling in White Males.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Andrew X., Scranton, PA. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:32:19 GMT

I will first preface my response to Chuck's plea with a discussion of the role of "history-making" that seemed to be the opening theme of last night's debate and the theme of the campaign. Whatever the outcome of this Democratic primary, history will be made. While I think that on the one hand, making this statement might now be, to a degree, a media driven cliché, and perhaps distracting in that it does seem to raise this fact above all of the issues that do face this country, on the other hand, it is important to take into consideration since this fact of history making is inseparably bound with this campaign. To take the issues alone (or one issue alone, which is too commonly done), or to divide this moment up such that women will vote for the woman and the African American will vote for the African American is to abstract from the real concrete choice of this moment.

That being said, I support Barack Obama.
1+2. Hillary Clinton has had, and will have, a fantastic impact on this country. She has led many movements in the past that have had important effects, such as rights for women, African Americans, etc.--she does have experience. However, considering her invaluable contributions of leadership to the various movements in this country, I still think that Barack Obama is both best fit and ready to successfully this country. I think one of the demands of this concrete choice in this election is the move to change the definition of America, or better, (a) how Americans see themselves and (b) how others see Americans. While (b) has been most drastically destroyed by the imperialism of a neoconservative ideology, (a) has been in ruins for a while. The demand of changing how Americans see themselves can only be met by Americans themselves. How does America do this: by tackling these urgent issues such as poverty, war, health care, education, etc. as America. I think Barack Obama with his history of good judgment and ability to bring people together can accomplish this task. Barack Obama, therefore, will not be merely the representative of this America, but will facilitate all Americans to actively do this important task through his leadership and judgment. This is why I think Obama is best suited to be president and best suited to lead this country in this task.
3. Again, his ability to call Americans to actively participate in this task, I believe, will kill the GOP this election.

I hope my answer helps

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

laurie, Greenwich, CT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:32:32 GMT

I used to be an Indendent, and a Republican before that. Your last question says it all. Obama is the President for the future. Clintons presidency would have it's roots in the past. He will unite the American people, listen to both Republican and Democratic opinions and concerns. He is of the people, for the people and by the people in the the truest, most unselfish sense.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

TAW, Maryland — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:33:08 GMT

I am voting for Obama and answer your questions as follows:

1 - I feel that Obama is the better candidate for president because he is not a Washington insider. In order to be a career politician there are a lot of handshake deals and behind the scenes positioning that comes along with the job and additionally there are a lot of favors given and in return a lot of debts owed. To me those debts and deals is baggage that will slow down the chance of any real change in Washington, Obama offers a fresh start.

2 - Obama well educated, well liked, has worked with the people and for the people for decades as an advocate and has been in the Illinois state legislature as a reform agent before entering the senate. He brings with him hope of the youth and a change from what has become a presidency if you have the right name. He also represents America. He calls himself African American, but he is also: but is bi-racial and represents all people of mixed race, the son of an immigrant, the son of a Caucasian, has an Asian Stepfather, a full African sister and a half Asian half sister. He is Christian but accepts that religious freedom is a necessity. He is the diversity that America was created upon. He is intelligent, thoughtful and people tend to stop and listen to what he has to say and he has integrity. Aren’t those important attributes for the leader of the free world?

3 - Obama can pull in independents and those who purely hate the Clintons. He is the best bet to beat McCain who can pull in Independents as well. Also I think HRC will have a hard time pulling in White Males.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, NJ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:33:33 GMT

Chuck, I cannot urge you enough to consider casting a vote for Senator Clinton.

Why is she better suited to be our next Commander-in-Chief? Consider the fact that Senator Clinton has years over Obama in terms of experience regarding foreign affairs, domestic issues, and public policy. As a US Senator she has served on five important committees, including her main involvement with the Armed Services Committee. As a First Lady, she represented American values and ideals boldly, becoming the most traveled First Lady in history by speaking out for human rights and equality in over 79 countries. Her experience within the health care sector are triumphant; though her initial plan did fail, she turned right around and, along with Ted Kennedy, brought forward the Children's Health Insurance Program in 1997-which covered millions of children across the country. She is active in speaking out for the middle class, the racial minorities, the lgbt community, and the disabilities community. She has pledged to fight for and reform our Education system. She has pledged to resolve our economic and mortgage crises. I could go on and on...the bottom line is that Hillary DOES have 35 years of experience, and she is years ahead of Senator Obama when it comes to fighting for the people, voicing our opinions, and representing the American dream.

2. With all that I've mentioned, I encourage anyone to visit Hillary's website and just take a glance at all of her proposals and plans. They are thorough, practical, and positive. Senator Clinton is brilliant and committed to changing our country for the better, she has the backbone and knowledge that Senator Obama lacks.

3. DO NOT BE AFRAID OF THE GOP! Remember who we are talking about here, Hillary Clinton is indeed a Clinton. These folks have been under fire before and they will not wither if attacked by the Republicans again. Her campaign is vigorous, her support is enormous, and let's be honest...WHO WANTS 4 MORE YEARS OF A REPUBLICAN? With all the economic trouble, the turmoil in Iraq, and the social issues at home-no one wants a Republican. Whoever wins the nominee will go on to achieve the Presidency, and I believe Mrs. Clinton has the toughness, the efficiency, and the willpower to fight for us and win back the White House for Democrats in 08!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Michael — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:33:47 GMT

My answers:
1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
Of the two, both would be superior to any Republican and both share very similar policies. The difference for me is the ability to get things done. Although Hillary touts experience and the ability to fight for the cause, we all know that nothing gets done in Washington without the ability to work across the aisle and build a broad coalition (60 votes in the Senate, remeber?). Although Clinton would mean well, her history and the irrational hatred of her by such a strong portion of the electorate will unfortunately just lead to more gridlock and a replay of the second Clinton term, not to mention revisiting so many Clinton scandals (Vince Foster, Travelgate, and all that other nonsense). Obama will be attakced too, but he will be better positioned ot turn the page, bring new poeople onboard and thereby effectively bring change about by moving us forward and beyond these petty scandals.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?
Again, both share the same ideals, most of the same policies, and even their experiences in non-profit law, aid the the less fortunate, and legislative experience and accomplishements make them both suited. Hillary offers some additional experience behind the scenes in the White House, but Obama takes it because he has the gift of inspiration and charisma. The presidency isn't just about managing the bureaucracy and forcing your agenda through, it's about plotting a new course for America and convincing us to follow him there. Obama can do this, I don't beleive Hillary can.

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?
I think both will easily efeat McCain (who I'm pretty sure will be the opponent). This is where the Iraq debate becomes so important. It's all McCain currently has going for him, and I think being McCain light and trying to explain your positions at various times is not going to put McCain on the defensive. Obama opposed this unpopular war from the beginnning, can speak eloquently, in a very informed manner on the subject, and drive home the problems remaining for us and why McCain's strategy is still ultimately bad for America, not just on Iraq but elsewhere in the world. We need to rebuild America's reputation abroad. Obama is best poised to do so.

Hope this helped.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tina, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:34:25 GMT

I am an Obama supporter. I have been following the election since last year. Here are my answers to your questions:

1.) Experience is important when looking at a candidate. I also feel however judgement and character are important. I feel that Clinton while Senator voted on certain issues like the Iraq War politically. She maybe wanted to seem strong on foreign policy, I don't know, but I feel that on some of issues she thought about the politics of it not the merit. So you have to question what kind of character do you want a candidate to have.

2.) I think Obama since he has experience in grassroots organizing and who is able to inspire a whole new generation would be an excellent President. Just think of 1993 if Hillary Clinton when working on health care took it to the people rather than working on it with policy wonks behind closed doors. I think we need someone who goes out and involves people and gets their support for the tough measures.

3.) Obama has shown that he has been able to bridge the gap to independents and republicans. Its unfortunate and not entirely Clinton's fault but she is viewed as polarizing. I think Obama would be the best candidate to beat McCain in the general election.

These are my views on it. But ultimately its up to you, what you view are the important qualities in a President.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

DL Exeter, NH. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:35:23 GMT

I am voting for Obama. I am a white male who grew up with 3 sisters and would like to think I am reasonably educated and encouraged by feminist causes but as strong and educated and knowledgeable as Hillary Clinton is Obama is what I have to say is the closest thing to the real deal (the closest thing I feel comes to a Frank Capra movie and Mr. Smith's Values when he "went to Washington"). I know that sounds like a "fairly tale" reference but it is not.
Living in New Hampshire I got to see most of the candidates speak. Obama makes the most reasoned arguments... and he is inspiring. Not because he is a black man running for president...but because he is right and reasoned and his speeches are grounded in that in my opinion.

I wish the entire country got to have the experience of seeing all of the candidates speak in long form. Even New Hampshire citizens didn't really get to do that.

Senator Obama is smart, ethical (and is so ethical is honest about his ethical mistakes in the past), he leads by looking for what is right, not by panic from group fear, not by standing on his proximity to others' accomplishments, but by a view that seems informed by not only the word on the street and in the halls of congress, but unlike others, looking at the horizon himself and what he sees, himself, an educated, American with a lot of common sense and empathy... coming down the road.

Sometimes it is hard to see that horizon when you live in a town too long. The 3rd generation war hero, the overthrown queen who still holds a torch for her husband's reign, the merchant who succeeded in business at his father's legacy ...they don't see the true horizon... Yes, They know of things that have come but don't look at the actual horizon...and sometimes our fears and our hopes cloud our clarity of reason.

On day one, we need someone with good reason and some people are just born with that, that is why Barack Obama should be President.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Scott Dauner, St Paul, MN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:36:04 GMT

In a nutshell, I think that since their policy positions are similar the debate comes down to who is the better leader. Using Kouzes and Posner's four most common characteristics of admired leaders (Honest, Forward-looking, Inspiring, Competent) I evaluated each based upon my own observations (following is purely my subjective opinion).

Clinton appears strongest in competency given her thorough knowledge of the issues. Obama appears strongest in honesty, inspiring and being forward-looking.

If you agree with that assessment, then the question becomes “is it easier for Clinton to embrace and espouse honesty, inspiration and being forward-looking, or for Obama to embrace and espouse competency?”

It's a decision you have to make for yourself. For me, I think Obama's intelligence make it easy for him to be considered competent. And if he has experienced and competent advisors as the president, I think his competence would show through easily. I think Clinton would have a harder time presenting herself as inspiring, forward-looking and honest because of the opinions many people already have about her (ie: polarization, etc.). Not that she can't obviously, but I think Obama has a better chance of succeeding. Therefore I support Obama.

I hope that’s useful to you. Thanks.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Hope - Schaumburg, IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:36:45 GMT

Chuck,
Sen. Obama is better suited to be Pres because he is not as polarizing a figure as Sen. Clinton - if she wins it will be more 51-49 divisons in the Senate with nothing getting done. Sen Obama ispires not just the regular folk but his felow Senators as well.
He can win against John McCain because he will garner more independent votes - John McCain cannot win independents in the General with his 100yrs in Iraq strategy. Plus, Obama looks like the future - McCain just looks like the past. People want change - look at the exit polls, it is usually the main motivation for people voting.
Finally, Sen. Obama can be a successful President because, unlike Sen Clinton, he wants to provide more transparency to the government and he recognizes that he will have to work well with Republicans to get things done - I do not believe Sen Clinton will be completely willing to do that.
I was very turned off by the Clinton campaign in the last few weeks - I do no believe either she or Pres CLinton are racist, but they obviously injected race, if not themselves that through their delegates. With that happening, I truly beleive she has lost MANY democrats who will not support her in the General election. That scares me!!
Full disclosure: I am a black woman but I do not want anyone thinking I am voting for Sen Obama because I am black - I never voted for Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton (Ive always loved Biden) and truly I love the idea of a woman President - just not this one!
Good luck in your decision!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

jerry/corpus christi texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:37:19 GMT

With the way Hillary treated the pro union people with utter disdain while she served on the board at Wal-Mart, i cannot for the life of me understand why any union member would support the Clinton's in their run for the White house. You would have to be incredibly stupid or incredibly naive, or both, to think that any of your union issues will be dealt with by the Clinton's. They have never done one thing for union people and probably never well. All they do is come out of the woodwork every four to six years and ask for their money and find some goofy unions that don't take care of their people and get their money and take off.

Hillary Clinton is about as qualified to be President as captain kangaroo. Her plans last night continue to show that she is planning to raise taxes and just drive the middle class out of business altogather. Why should she care about the middle class?; her husband never gave a dog about the middle class and she learned from him.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Matt, Berwick, PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:37:48 GMT

I believe Senator Obama is better suited to be President. I believe he has shown better judgment, particularly on the issue of the war in Iraq. He took a stance when it was politically unpopular and stuck to it. While I have the utmost respect for Senator Clinton, all the experience in the world doesn't change the fact that she bungled what was arguably the most important vote of her Senate career and for whatever reason will not admit that she made a mistake. So Senator Obama beats her out for having better judgment, which I consider quite possibly the most important attribute for a President to have. You can't afford to be wrong about something like that when the cost is thousands of American lives and billions of dollars.

Senator Obama also has what it takes to lead our country. I truly believe that he's the President who can end an era of divisive and partisan politics by bringing people from both sides together. He's also inspired a new generation of Americans to become involved in this process, and I think it's been a long time since America has had a leader that can be truly labeled "inspiring". A leader who makes us want to do better, and to be better, as individuals and collectively as a nation. I think that choosing Senator Obama as our President also sends a message to the world that America, which has done the same things the same way for so long, is capable of change.

I also feel Senator Obama can beat the GOP in November. Barring a complete collapse, it looks like the Republican candidate is John McCain. Obama as the nominee has several effects in November. I believe you'll see massive Democratic turnout. I believe you'll see Obama get independent voters and even some Republican voters. With Senator Clinton as the nominee, McCain gets the vast majority of independents and what seems to be something of a fractured GOP rallies around their nominee against a Clinton. Senator Clinton is truly the GOP's secret weapon in November if she ends up the Democratic nominee.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

ObamaRama — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:37:49 GMT

Chuckles and Co. are in high gear, doing everything that a marginal cable news network and a cadre of dedicated flaks can do to influence the outcome of the primary season. The first hour was EVEN (Read: that Hillary cleaned Barry's clock) while Iraq, "tipped", the scales in his favor.
Not according to the undecideds at CNN, not by far according to their, "people meters", and more importantly, with those around the country trying to decide who can and who should lead this nation out of the wilderness in Jan. 2009.

When it comes to the economy (stupid) and health care, Barry is still in the wilderness, and didn't show that he had a compass or could fend for himself, let alone for America. His best defense of the tissue thin policies he unconvincingly presented was, "Ted Kennedy said...", as though the invocation of his name was somehow going to magically hypnotize the electorate and hide the holes in his resume, proposals and debating skill.

Tuesday will be a shock to Chuck(les) and Co. They will preside over the evening with hollow eyes and downcast countenances as they are forced to project Hillary's smiling visage with, "Clinton wins", in state after state after state.

They will scramble to explain why their constant drumbeat against her and their daily shameless promotion of Barry failed to produce the scripted outcome. They'll trot out the Bradley effect again, act surprised at the sheer number of women who come out all across the country, 60% of whom vote for Hillary.

They'll be amazed that the demographics of the evening so closely resemble the, "meaningless Beauty contest", in FL and scratch their collective heads in perplexity that the record turnouts didn't favor their choice.

They'll be holding out hope by reminding everyone that the delegate take is proportional, and NO ONE will gain a sufficient number to claim the nomination that night, that even though Barry finished SECOND (they won't say he lost) he still gets delegates. They will start talking up the next primary dates long before the final results are tallied, because they will be stuck covering a story that they didn't want.

After defeating Barry and the combined forces of Big Media, despite the most concerted effort against a candidate in American journalistic history, defeating the pro-war, anti-choice republican will be like a walk in the park.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

gene britton — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:38:24 GMT

I don't know what debate Todd and company were viewing last night, but to mark the first half as a draw is a sure sign that he is suffering from a mental disorder. It is called "Clinton hatred mental disorder" and it starts as the brain gets smaller and distorts the facts. This is a danger to those close to him and it has been know to be contagious. Chris, Keith, Howard Fineman,Joe, Mica ( Joe might have been th carrier that spread the infection)and others. Now to the second half of the debate. The media and you guys in particular constantly give credit to Obama because he somehow was against the war before the senate vote. I know he made a speech after the fact, but I recall nothing prior to the vote. Hillary made him look like a school boy.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sierra, SF — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:38:41 GMT

'...REALLY Bad News Day for Hillary Clinton

Check out this collection of stories from around the
web.

First, there's a crushing ABC News story about Hillary Clinton's inaction during her tenure with Wal-Mart.

In six years as a member of the Wal-Mart board of
directors, between 1986 and 1992, Hillary Clinton
remained silent as the world's largest retailer waged
a major campaign against labor unions seeking to
represent store workers....
"I'm always proud of Wal-Mart and what we do and the
way we do it better than anybody else," she said at a
June 1990 stockholders meeting.
The story reports that video of Wal-Mart's many
private board meetings never shows Clinton reacting to the other board member's vicious anti-union
statements. The story also reports that Clinton's main effort on the board, improving conditions for female workers, accomplished little...'

Anit union ?
Billary ?
Accomplished little for female workers ?
'...Further, the story says that Clinton will keep $20,000 in donations from Wal-Mart executives, and that former President Bill Clinton has regular private meetings with Wal-Mart's current CEO...'

That's ONE FEMALE'S condition improved

'....Then there is David Broder who writes in the
Washington Post that Barack Obama is the Democratic
frontrunner, despite Hillary Clinton's polling leads
in many February 5 states. Broder points to
establishment Democratic opinion trending toward BHO.

The advantage has shifted back to Barack Obama —
thanks to a growing but largely unremarked-upon
tendency among Democratic leaders to reject Hillary
Clinton and her husband, the former president.

The New York senator could still emerge from the
"Tsunami Tuesday" voting with the overall lead in
delegates, but she is unlikely to come close to
clinching the nomination...

That establishment that is heading Obama's way? That's the one the Clintons have owned for nearly two
decades. Think we're done? Oh, no. More after the
jump.....'

That's just for starters.....

WHY DID YOU VOTE FOR THE IRAQ WAR ?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

laurie, Greenwich, CT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:39:13 GMT

Chuck,
One more thought...I really believe that a vote for Senator Clinton is like a vote for the Republican candidate in the fall. Our party really needs to unite and look towards the future.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Anton t, albert lea, mn — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:40:14 GMT

I am a white male, Graduate degree, 4 years US Marine Corps, Two years US peace corps. Lots of years of corporate experience, built my own business and now self made millionaire. I pay about $500,000 per year in taxes. I have a lot invested in this country. I also have two daughters and an African Americam wife. I will will vote for Hillary because she is the best for our country. She has the knowledge and experience to get this country on track for all. Obama is a good speaker but has no real practical experience. He has not accomplished much in his life. For a 46 year old man he has relativly little accomplishments. He was not at all clear or articulate in the debaye. He tried his best to play gotcha politics.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Kay, DC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:41:15 GMT

I am surprised to read that some people remain undecided. The primary selection process has been going on for more than a year. Every candidate, Republican and Democrat, has expressed his or her positions on the issues. And everything about their lives has been covered in enough detail that I think we've been given a clear picture about their character. If the lengthy process and the candidates haven't managed to convince you, what makes you think anyone here will?

With all that said I think Obama is the best choice, and not because Clinton is a woman, nor because Barak is black. (I am neither.)

On the policy issues, Obama and Clinton are almost identical. Yes Clinton will mandate health care coverage and Barak will only make it available to everyone who wants it but at a lower cost. Yes Barak has a specific date on pulling troops out of Iraq and Clinton doesn't. Yes Obama will permit immigrants to apply for driver's license and Clinton won't. But on the substance of the issues they are pretty much identical.

And I am not persuaded by Clinton's greatest strengths - i.e., Bill (no one should be elected president b/c of their spouse) and her experience (none of which is executive). And I don't fault Clinton for her mistake in voting for the Iraq war (although it says something quite negative about her character that she won't admit she was in fact wrong).

The real difference for me is inspiration. Obama has the ability to inspire: youth to become politically involved, ordinary Americans to try to reach higher, immigrants to want to become citizens, America to reassert its place in the world, and the rest of the world to beleive in us again. Candidates like Obama don't come around very often and as the electorate we have a responsibility, to our kids and those that can't vote, to elect leaders like Obama. This is not only why Obama is my choice but also why I think he has a better chance to defeat the Republican candidate.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Adam/Brooklyn New York City — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:41:23 GMT

To Chuck, NY

I'm in NYC and I'm voting Obama.

1) I think they are equally suited to be President. They're both incredible people and share my values.

2) I think Obama has shown an immeasurable ability to organize people. I think that's what people call "inspiration" or "a movement". If you look at his campaign, it feels like a community because f his ability to organize people. I think that's a quality that's has been sorely lacking from the White House for a very long time. I don't think Hillary has that ability.

3) Obama has vastly increased the size of the Democratic Party in the span of about one month. My answer in #2, he will bring a new, larger electorate to the General Election. And remember what a General Election looks like this year beyond the Presidential Election. 28 Republican House members are resigning, and every House seat is up for re-election anyway, 33 Senators, many governors, local reps etc. etc. etc. Obama will bring a sweeping majority for the Democrats. We could put an end to so many debates (like choice, immigration, energy) simply by having an overwhelming majority. Obama supporters aren’t going to follow Hillary in the same numbers, in fact, Clinton-v-McCain would put that new electorate back to sleep. Hillary will have a tough time bringing even a slight majority because everyone’s mind is made up about her. As much as half the country might love her, the other half hates her. And, that’s not a good percentage for actually getting anything done.

In the end, I feel like Hillary will change the party in the White House, but Obama will change the country.

Good luck with your decision. By the way, since you mentioned demographics, I’m a white, middle class, straight, male and I could care less about their gender or race.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Andrew, Nashville TN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:41:44 GMT

Chuck:

As to question 1 and 2, I think both Obama and Hillary are qualified. The key to your question is #3. Obama is more electable. Hillary will rally the Republican base to unite behind a candidate. Obama doesn't carry the baggage Clinton does, and will even draw some former Republicans (myself included) to vote for him. McCain, who is seen as a non-partisan straight shooter, would dominate the independent vote over Clinton, who is seen as a partisan. Not so with Obama. If Clinton did somehow get elected, the Republicans will rally against her divisiveness and take back Congress in '10, just like what happened to Bill in '94. And then nothing will get done.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

commonsensepoliticstoday of Los Angeles — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:41:56 GMT

Chuck in NY,

I was going to give you a response to your questions, but I agree wholeheartedly with Keith of NY, and would like to say ditto ditto ditto.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Kris, Keizer, OR — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:44:19 GMT

I thought Clinton was great and she handled herself with humor and answered Wolf Blitzer's one-sided questions with grace. He tries to ambush her everytime and she gets him everytime showing his true colors as a terrible moderator.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Chris, NY NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:45:05 GMT

Chuck NY - that is easy. Clinton is struggling with her Iraq war vote in the Democratic primary. However, she will not struggle with this in the general election. It will show general election voters that she is strong and capable of protecting the country. McCain voted the same way she did so he cannot attack her on it. The debate will be over who will resolve the war which Clinton wins easily.

Obama will be painted as a wimpy liberal by the republicans. Hillary will not.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Susan, New York, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:46:08 GMT

it was summed up last night when hillary was asked if she could control her husband's role in the White House. She said when it comes down to it the President is the only one who makes decisions. Therefore, her "experience" as 8 years of First Lady have absolutely no relevance to this election. She made no decisions, and she said it herself.l

Hillary is running on her husband's resume which is chock full of sketchy relationships (mining debacle), Reublicans revolts(Clinton was impeached does anyone remember that?!) and false hope (the internet boom lead to a great economy and clinton's foreign policy sucked in the 90s).

Republicans would love to see Hillary as the nominee, she can't win against McCain because she voted along with him and no matter what they say, there are still a lot of politicians in Washington that hate the Clintons and are ready to take them down again.

Obama is the best candidate for '08 because he's running on his own resume, including 8 years in state senate, and he doesn't have the baggage and sketchy relationships that come from years in Washington.

Hope this answers your questions, Chuck!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:46:11 GMT

Good Democrats that have been thrown under the bus by the Clintons so far. First they tried to destroy Barack Obama(voter intervened on his behalf). Bill Clinton tried to savage Teddy Kennedy in a town hall(even though his wife supported the same damn bill). Hillary Clinton threw Levin(as noted above) under the bus/backed up and ran him over again at the debate last night.

I see a continuation of the 1990s. The Clinton record of 1992 to 2001.

A partial list of names reads: Vince Foster (tragic suicide), the seven White House Travel office workers (fired and rehired when charges were untrue), Lani Guiniere (yanked nomination), Zoe Baird (yanked nomination), Jocelyn Elders (invited to resign), DeeDee Myers (invited to resign), George Stephanopulous (run-in with Hillary, resigned), Webb Hubbell (jail), Susan McDougal (jail), Jim McDougal (jail), Mack McClarty (resigned), Gov. Jim Guy Tucker (jail), Paula Jones (at least she got some money for her pain), Juanita Broaddrick, Gennifer Flowers, Kathleen Willey, Monica Lewinsky (she got crushed by the bus), Linda Tripp (she did a bad, bad thing and got steamrolled), Al Gore (impeachment, Clinton fatigue and sleaze factor made it impossible to run without having to run away from the Clintons).

Remember what happened to other Democrats during the Clinton years. Fewer senators, fewer representatives, fewer governors, fewer state legislators.
--
Republicans gained control of both houses of Congress for the first time in more than 40 years after the 1994 elections.
Democrats lost control of the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in 40 years, along with control of the Senate and 10 gubernatorial seats-

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Christina, Miami, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:47:10 GMT

Hi Chuck from New York, I am a female hispanic. I have been following this democratic nomination process for a long time. At first I must admit I was leaning Clinton. But the more I have double looked the candidates I've changed my mind to Obama.

1.)For the past 7 plus years we've had a president who sorrouds himself with "his people", he is stubborn and seems to disregard others who dont think like him. I think a president needs to understand he is the head of the body, the head needs the body and vise-versa. This is democracy and the president needs to be able to reach accross the isle in order to make progress. Issues like:
* Healthcare
* Immigrition
* Global Warming
* Our denpendecy on foreign oil
Etc.. these issues have been around for decades. If our elected leaders dont work together NOTHING can happen. Obama does not have the baggage and he can disagree without being disagreeable. I also want to note that Obama's experience is inspiring. He has been in public office longer than Mrs.Clinton. He was in the Illinois State Legislation for 8 years and in the U.S. Senate for 3 years. He has worked on the ground with people to people (community organizer) In the courtrooms (civil rights attorney) even as a Professor to teach the constitition (classroom experience) and of course state and national level experience (public office).

2. There is alot of discussion as far as what it takes to be an effective leader. Some of Pres.Bush's supporters believe he is an excellent leader. Each of us have to make a decision on our future and what we truly want in a president. Experience, judgement, character, and message are key. I believe Sen.Obama has the right kind of experience of unifying and reaching across the isle. His message has touched many new folks to get involved in politics. After 9/11 Pres. Bush had all of us on his side if he were a true leader he could have motivated, inspired and unified this country against the horrors in the world. Instead he told us to go shopping and send us in Iraq. Leadership is a powerful word it is not just about political stances and policy decisions.

3. I believe that Sen.Obama can beat ANY republican in November. I will focus on McCain because he is the frontrunner. The republican establishment is not exactly thrilled about nominating McCain they will not come out with the strong numbers unless Sen.Clinton is the democratic nominee. She definetly unites the republican party. Alot of independants and republicans have voted for Sen.Obama. Also John McCain's arguments in November will be:
* Experience
* National Security
Senator Obama has never made an argument for experience. Hillary's "35 years of experience" is not clear in many voters eyes. Obama can make it about the future not the past. He can say Rumsfield and Cheney have experience but America's does not need more of the same. On National Security, Mrs. Clinton voted for the war (there's no way around that). What we learned from John Kerry is you cant vote for something then be against it. John Kerry a military hero could not get around that. Senator Obama was always against this war he says he not only wants to get out of this war he also wants to change the mindset that got us into war. He has always been against Iraq (no matter what you hear).

I want to point out that I believe that Senator Obama can truly put us on a better path. I have nothing but respect for Senator Clinton. I am a woman and part of me desperately wants a woman president but I don't believe Senator Clinton is that woman. I hope that I have assisted you in any way. Best wishes in making your decision.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

ryan, ny — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:49:45 GMT

One thing I noticed, that nobody picks up on during these debates, is that Clinton keeps saying she wants to be judged on her own record and her own merits. Not even within 10 seconds of saying that, she goes into a tirade of how great the 90's were with all of the jobs and the economy booming, etc....
That's not her record, it's her husbands. Which way is it going to be?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

NotHere — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:49:48 GMT

I Choose Obama, I lived through the Clinton years and they weren't great for everyone. First, IBM outsourced my job thanks to NAFTA. Then there was the handling of Waco, Elian Gonzales, Vince Foster, etc, the list goes on. ("Change" to the past, is an oxymoron with in itself)

This years election will be decided by the independent voters. With Hillary's negative numbers, she will loose. (I will not vote for her, period) Not counting as pointed out in the debate, it's hard to argue we need to pull out of Iraq when you were the one arguing to go in. (Hypocrisy and flip-flopping will be front and center [again], and we saw what happened to Kerry when he was for the war before he was against it).

For Obama, I watched both the republican debate (know thy enemy) and the democratic debate. Obama understands chess theories and knows how to set up verbal punches so they land with force. (Mitt's return investments, wheels falling off the straight talking express, etc.) If you close your eye's and listen to the republican debate, it sounded like a high school debate team (When my fifteen year old daughter says they're acting juvenile, something is wrong).

I was deemed unpatriotic for standing up for what I believed in, and only those that show the same conviction, will I ever be able to vote for.

"Right" on day one - Obama in '08

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Joan Goble, Rockaway, NJ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:51:04 GMT

I doubt either Obama or Hillary is actually electable. The strange thing is that the white woman is probably less electable than the black man. I suppose this is progress of some sort. Lots of conservatives hate Hillary's guts. They will be out in full force to vote against her. Anyone but Hillary! And conservatives are fully 1/3 of the electorate.

However if it is Obama vs McCain many conservatives will simply not vote. Hence Obama has a better chance than Hillary if McCain is the Rep nominee. Whether Obama can pick up enough white votes to actually win is an open question but he still has a better shot at the Presidency than Hillary does.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mark, Los Angeles — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:54:15 GMT

Chuck, I haven't read all the responses, so if my comments are repetitive, I apologize.

First, I believe Senator Obama is better suited to be President because his election would immediately change world - and especially Islamic - opinion about the United States. I've had a dream since this race started that Obama would go to the country where he received his earliest education - Indonesia, the world's largest Islamic nation - and say "My name is Barack Hussein Obama. I am President of the United States. I spent my earliest years here, and I know you. I am here to tell you that the United States of America is not at war with Islam, and we do not hate Muslims." That alone would change the world, and literally no one else could have that impact.

Second, Senator Obama is clearly intelligent and wise, two qualities that have been sorely lacking in the Executive. More important, he is a man of character and integrity. I've read testaments from people who've known him as a youth, as a leader in Harvard Law School, as a community organizer, and as a legislator in Illinois and Washington. He has a unique depth of experience that lends his character an aura that I believe Americans would respect and follow.

Finally, I think he would not only beat the Republican nominee, but is also better positioned to carry a much larger Democratic Congressional majority with him. To explain this, I must contrast him with Senator Clinton. While I respect her, it seems clear that she would ignite the Republican base to come out to defeat her - even against McCain who is not particularly popular with his own base. Obama has shown that he can attract new voters to the Party, as well as independents. I'm afraid fewer young people would turn out for Senator Clinton, and that independents would vote strongly for McCain. Finally, Obama as a nominee would be the leader not just of a campaign, but of a movement for change, hope and transformation. That doesn't happen often, but when it does, landslides follow.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

JohnnyMcNugget, Chicago, IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:55:28 GMT

[NOTE: I am a white male voting for Obama, if you need the demographics]

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
I think Obama is better suited to be President because his policies are not only more sound, but more likely to get accomplished. Take health care:
From what I have seen from Clinton in this debate and in debates past, she admits that there will have to be compromises on her health care plan, but says it's a moral imperative that you mandate coverage. What compromise will her plan make? Will mandatory coverage be something shuffled off? She criticizes Obamas plan for saying that he will get nibbled to death for establishing what she sees as a concession, but what I as a voter see as a way to start negotiations.
I don't want our health insurance to become like our auto insurance - you just check a box to say you're covered, but that coverage doesn't protect you or anyone else. I believe that mandating coverage will only hide the problem under a too basic "catastrophic plan", not fix it.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?
I know the comparisons to JFK might seem cliche, and even going beyond Obama's message of unity and a new kind of politics, there is another similarity to JFK that Obama presents. We are going to have to work for it. Everyone knows JFK's inagauration speech, "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country."
There is a reason that Obama appeals to a younger generation that is already being touted as the next golden generation in civic responsibility (unlike the apathy that has preceded them). They want to work to make this country better.
I'm not saying that Hillary Clinton doesn't want this country to be better, I truly believe that she does. But she has, as far as I've seen, presented the future as something that her administration will be the ones working on the problems, when the problems that face us require more effort than that. They require all of us, and Obama not only has made the case that your vote is a step towards fixing those problems but that the work doesn't end on election day. It's a call to action, which I see in stark contrast to many of the administrations before (including Bill Clinton's), which essentially tell us to behave like children while we wait for our parents to fix things.

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?
I think this was one of Obama's strongest points in the debate last night, on issue after issue.
One, he makes a clear distinction on issues like Iraq, and changes the discussion from one of "Democrats are soft on national security" to "Democrats have a stronger foreign policy." I think that his opposition to the war from the beginning changes that discussion to more than just "what do we do from here" back to the winning issue of going to war for the wrong reasons.
Two, he isn't as polarizing as Hillary Clinton is. Her history comes with a baggage, and its one that the far right wing has used to help raise money for 15 years. This isn't the only race in November, and even if she does win the presidency, there will be more fundraising for senate and congressional seats occupied as republicans, which could result in more difficult elections across the nation.
Three, I believe Obama does appeal across party lines, and to independents, cutting into John McCain's advantage over Clinton, and I think that he puts more states in play in the general election than Hillary Clinton does. His candidacy is a movement, whether people define it as that or not, and it's going to be exponentially more difficult to run against a movement than a person.

I hope that this helps, there are many more policy reasons that I support Obama over Clinton, but in addresing your issues, I felt a need to only touch on some of the points. I'm sure other commenters here will weigh in with many more points as well.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Steve, Tucson, AZ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:55:38 GMT

My major issue with Obama is that he seems to believe that he's never made a mistake in his adult life. The only people who never make mistakes are those who refuse to make choices. We all make mistakes and most of us learn from these mistakes and still keep making the tough decisions. How will Obama handle his first mistake?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Michael — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:56:30 GMT

I think Neocon David Brooks of the NY Times actually answers qustion 3 the best:

"In 2000, McCain was a joyful warrior. He was the guy rollicking through rallies waving a light saber and launching playful verbal assaults on the Bush empire. He was the guy filling his speeches with New Frontier rhetoric and glimpses of hopeful vistas. “I believe we are an unfinished nation,” he used to say.

But the Obama campaign feels more like McCain in 2000 than the current McCain campaign does. Barack Obama outshines McCain right now as the hopeful warrior. Obama is the one insistently calling on audiences to serve a cause greater than self-interest. He’s the one transcending partisanship and telling young people that politics can be the means to a meaningful, purpose-driven life.

McCain seems to be burdened by the emotional cost of the war in Iraq, by the gravity of young people dying. But F.D.R. was a happy wartime campaigner and to compete with the Democrats in the fall, McCain will have to reconnect with the spirit of this moment. The country, the über-pollster Peter Hart notes, is not in a mood for irritation and anger. It’s thirsty for uplift, progress and hope.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/01/opinion/01brooks.html
"

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ryan, Stamford CT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:57:03 GMT

Do we want to continue with the same old, same old. I don’t see either as a potential candidate for me. The president that will really bring this country back on it is feet has not been born yet. Besides this election is like a Russian roulette.

You have the pistol Obama, and the bullet Clinton, and we are behind the trigger playing with the future of our children, White, Black, Hispanic, Jew, Asian, European, Indian. This is what our country is compose of, And none of this cartoon characters has mention anything about our children and the future of this great nation.

We must react and demand what we want. We are so caught up weather a woman or a black man will win. Yeah offer us the candy and they take it away as if we were kids, and little by little our constitution is being change. Correct me if I am wrong. But isn`t the president suppose to protect the constitution., Retroactive laws aim at terrorist but harm others, Patriot act, war on terror, war on drugs, How about war on recession. Oh, almost forgot other countries are not putting up more money for equity in the U.S reason the recession is here, anyway my live will be the same nothing will change. I will still have to work every day. Only the politicians will in a better position than us.. have a good day.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lou Crisp — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:57:20 GMT

Dora Olivares said "If Hilary Clinton becomes the Democratic nominee, a Republican will be our next president. I will not vote for Hilary for 3 reasons: Gennifer Flowers, Paula Jones, Monica Lewinsky."

Those MIGHT be legitimate reasons not to vote for Bill Clinton, but what does it have to do with Hillary? Any couple that goes through marital problems and infidelity has to handle it as they see fit. Do you mean to tell me you'd vote for a Republican that would continue the war in Iraq for '100 years' over a Democrat that vows to end it, simply because you think she should have left her husband? Give me a break!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ean, Iowa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:58:33 GMT

I’m one of the many “young voters” who up until this election had not been inspired to participate in America’s political process. My absence of inspiration and motivation stems from a lack of trust, honesty and respect I’d yet to recognize in the standard political candidate. I’m a veteran who has participated first had in the ramifications of poor judgment that have plagued this country’s bureaucratic managers (notice I did not use the term “leaders”). Up until this point I had been searching for leadership, yet only provided poll-driven politically motivated nonsense. Obama has changed my view of the American political system by offering something I had previously not witnessed; leadership.

Much of how America prospers is driven by foreign policy. America’s status has suffered a great deal over the past eight years. I believe Mr. Obama can restore our nation’s status through the recognition of the influential power of mutual respect, and the need to end America’s policy of prospering solely through intimidation and fear. In addition, Obama has an ability unlike any other candidate to bring individuals together to solve important issues. Obama represents the coming together of ideas for the common good. A President without the ability to lead across party lines represent nothing more than a continuation of politics as usual.

Finally, Obama represents a new approach to the same problems that Americans have been attempting to solve for decades. Experience without results represents hard-work without success. A pitcher does not make it to the hall of fame because he pitched a lot of innings. Simply trying is not good enough. Now more than ever this country needs results. Obama’s leadership abilities can produce results so that we do not have to face the same problems for years to come. He'll belong in the Hall of Fame one day.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marie Owensboro, KY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:59:01 GMT

Chuck,

I am a white female from Kentucky. I am a supportor of Obama. Let me tell you that I am also similiar to to a question asked last night in the fact that I am 38 and have not voted when a Clinton or a Bush has not been on the ticket. But also let me say I have yet voted for a Clinton or a Bush. I am a registered Independant and have been since my high school government class when I wanted to be sure I would always be able to vote for who I felt was the right canidate. Obviously I have yet to vote for a winner.

I picked Obama because I have been following him every since his 2004 speech at the democratic national convention. This speech spoke to me directly and made me inspired. My previous favorite speech at a convention was Elizabeth Doles.

To answer your questions
1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected? I have said I hope I don't have to vote for someone who voted for the war period. I also was one of the few at the dinner table that was against the war at the beginning and I agree that unless you had that position at the time you don't understand the pressure that was felt to be against the war. It was much easier to be for the war.
2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country? I do believe that the best way to lead the country is by having the people of the country behind you. I feel that the hightlight of Bush's presidency was when he united the country during the aftermath of 9/11. That period of time was simply amazing as a country coming together to help restore NY. We need to capture that spirit. To say that inspiration is just words is false. I believe you can only lead if you can get people to follow.
3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November? I had considered voting for McCain if Clinton became the Nominee. Even though I was so firmly against the war and going against my own personal pledge to not vote for anyone who voted for the war. But John McCain is showing that same political stubborness that got Bush into trouble. His statements can be compared to Cheney'statements agains John Kerry. I will not be made to vote for someone out of fear. I beleive that others will share my beliefs. I also as mentioned earlier have been in a very lonely position voting against Bush in the last elections. But in my office and at home I know people are looking at Obama even asking me where I got my Obama button. They are saying that they are considering him. I believe his time has come.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Frankie Crosby, Columbus Georgia. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 15:59:37 GMT

The Debate, No, Hillary won..

Hillary won overall, Barack's best debate performance, Iraq was his finest moment.

Only on and in the mind set of MSNBC, did the Iraq war tip the debate in Obama's favor... ANYWHERE you get "objective" news, and for those who watched the debate it was clear, "overall" Clinton won... She has more depth on issues, giving specifics, demonstrating a broader and deeper knowledge of the subjects...

Obama's finest moment was when he talked about the Iraq war, and "overall" it was his best debate performance to date. Considerably better than his previous events.

Hillary's worst moment was trying to explain her yes vote, the second time and what "the yes vote" really meant.... She spent too much time on it and it effectively got her off message for few minutes. While she was doing it you could see on Obama's face as if to say it's not working, you're not wiggling out of this one... And he was right.

But she did give a rational, reasonable explanation of her reasons for giving the yes votes against Iraq, and Iran. And the explanations were good, and very believable... But no matter how much one talks on a subject it will not change a yes vote to a no vote on the Iraq vote...

Obama's discourse about the Iraq war was his crown jewel in all of his debates to date. He spoke well about the issues of Iraq, showing depth and understanding, that was on par with Hillary. He clearly won the "overall" exchange.

But that was not the entire debate. Of course that's all MSNBC could see... MSNBC has a mother and child relationship with Obama.... The MSNBC mother loves its baby. So there is really little reason to look for any objectivity from Mother MSNBC, about "their baby" Obama..

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Dominic Iacopino, Brick, NJ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:01:41 GMT

I put very little stock in what Chuck Todd says. He, Tim Russert, and Chris Matthews all of the Barack Obama Television Network, are the clearest example of the "Yellow Journalism" concept we all studied in our History classes in school. These are the same clowns who predicted an Obama victory in New Hampshire with such glee, and were crestfallen when Hillary won that state, and tried to put an Obama spin on the results. I wonder if Chuck Todd was watching the same debate as everyone else. Hillary won this debate, most polls say so, and most of the voters who saw the debate said so too. Look at at the CNN focus group, after the debate they said Hillary won debate in a 60-40 split. I know Obama people will put there spin on it and say this group was made up of Latinos. Well isn't that the group where Obama was weakest in and Teddy was supposed to help him with. Obama won the Iraq portion of the debate, but Hillary clearly eclipsed him in Health Care, the economy and immigration. That's 3 rounds to 1 in Hillary's favor. In professional boxing, it is said that the challenger is supposed to win a decision decisively or KO the champion in order to win the title. Well sorry folks, despite what the Barack Obama Television Network says, it just didn't happen. Decision Hillary big time!!!!!!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Michael — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:02:20 GMT

I think the best answer to all three is as follows: both would win the Presidency, only Obama can unite the nation and truly bring about change.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Rick, WS, NC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:02:53 GMT

This immigration thing will trip up all of the candidates because all of them want amnesty first, then border security...dont even talk to me about amnesty until we have sealed our border which is a valid federal gooberment function, unlike pandering to wetbacks

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

John Doe, Richmond, Virginia — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:05:25 GMT

Obama clearly won that debate last night if for nothing more on his stance against the Iraqi War FROM DAY ONE!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Nell, dallas, tx — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:07:52 GMT

To me the most interesting question was from the 30 year old woman who asked Senator Clinton, what did she think about the fact that for the better part of a quarter century that the country has been run by a Bush or a Clinton. So how can she said that her presidency will provide change? For me that's the big issue, not that she is a woman, but 1st and foremost in my mind is that she is a Clinton. I just makes me a little uneasy that's all, and many of my friends agree. The cynic in me can definitely see the argument that is also just seems like a way for Bill Clinton to circumvent the 2 term limit.
We jokingly say what's next...Chelsea Clinton for president, 2016? Or maybe one of the other Bush kids for president?

Either way though, I will vote no matter who the nominee is, but it will once again just be down party line.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Antonietta, Willoughby, Ohio — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:09:39 GMT

Since there is little difference between Clinton and Obama, why does inexperience trump experience? Why do we overlook inexperience so easily? Foreign affairs will certainly be a learning experience for Obama and the US can't afford another president with little or no foreign experience. Support our troops; vote for Hillary.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Bill, Scranton, PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:09:48 GMT

Being right one time doesn't make a wiseman. Especially when Obama didn't even have all the information available to make the decision he made. I'm sorry, but I will not entrust this country to an individual whose has to refer to his greatest experience as a community activist. My president has to do more than be good at community affairs and speeches.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jane, Cary, NC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:09:56 GMT

Bill's muzzle fell off last night. He dissed Ted Kennedy - equated Ted with George Bush! The man is uncontrollable. And now this story about Kazakhstan. Are we Democrats going to hand this election to the GOP on a silver platter by giving them Bill Clinton to talk about during the Fall campaign? Here we have an opportunity to nominate a gifted, brilliant man who can appeal to Independents and even some GOP folks! Barack Obama is a once-in-a-generation chance for a real CHANGE in the way government works. He can go a long way to lessening the partisan gridlock that we have endured for decades. WAKE UP DEMOCRATS!! The Clintons had their chance in the 1990s. It is time to look forward - not backwards! The Clintonian sleazy campaign tactics have made me cringe at times. I want to be a PROUD DEMOCRAT. Barack Obama can make all of us in the Democratic Party PROUD DEMOCRATS again. VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Bill, Scranton, PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:11:24 GMT

Being right one time doesn't make a wiseman. Especially when Obama didn't even have all the information available to make the decision he made. I'm sorry, but I will not entrust this country to an individual who refers to his greatest experience as a community activist. My president has to do more than be good at community affairs and speeches.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Frankie Crosby, Columbus Georgia. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:11:26 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Pete, Albany, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:57:09 GMT

Answer #1 - Hillary Clinton may speak all she wishes about experience but the overwhelming majority of her experience is that of a First Lady. Last I checked, that's not an elected office. Her experince, then, amounts to 4 more years in the Senate than Barack Obama, and part of then ends up being a vote in which she yielded to the bullying tactics of the Republican majority and the Bush administration in voting as she did on Iraq. Barack Obama has more tangible experience in government and in law and has done a far better job articulating his position.

Answer #2 - We're about to be rid of 8 years of an administration that hears what folks say and then does what it wants anyway. Hillary Clinton appears ready for more of the same. Governing is not always about having the answers. Rather it is about asking the right questions. Given current uncertainties of the future, Barack Obama appears more willing to listen to people that disagree with him...he said it last night, "I won't always be right."

3. The last thing the Republican Party wants is a nominee without the last name of Clinton. Hillary Clinton will be saddled with Bill Clinton's legacy...campaign donations from China, Whitewater, Monica Lewinsky, Gennifer Flowers, Paula Jones, the blue dress, Linda Tripp...need we continue? For all of Bill Clinton's accomplishments, the GOP will just load up the bus, hitch Hillary and Bill to it and drive on off to Washington. And, Barack Obama is right...sometimes it's not clear which Clinton is running for office. The GOP will have a field day with a two-headed candidate named Billary...Hillary won't have a chance to be her own candidate in a national general election. Barack Obama has a grasp of the issues and will be his own candidate against either McCain or Romney.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Christa, Chicago, IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:57:42 GMT

I agree with the second poster who observed that HRC is usually just shrill at these debates, not necessarily the "winner" of them. I also want to point out that HRC is a gifted debater and maneuvers herself well in them, but that is not how you vote for a president. Obama, while some think he could toughen up a bit, is all intelligence and candor. How do you beat that? You don't look to see who can dodge questions, spin answers and have more clever comebacks. If that is all we base our decisions on when voting for the nation's highest office, then I know about a hundred average lawyers who should be president. What I like most about Obama, besides where he stands on the issues and his truthful answers to some tough questions, is that he respects the American people enough not to condescend to us. He tells us we need to get involved which is why he wants transparancy in our government. He tells us we will have to change our light bulbs. He tells us his desk is a mess (when asked what their shortcomings are) while the others do that politician thing. Let's just try, People, for a new direction.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:57:43 GMT

Experience of the past.

President Clinton ran in 1992, he was a governor of a small state in the south running against a sitting president George Herbert Walker Bush. Before his presidency, George Bush Sr. happened to be a World War II veteran, who flew into combat. He was the Vice President of the United States in the administration of Ronald Reagan (1980 -1988). He has also served as the member of the United States House of Representatives for the 7th district of Texas (1967–1971), the United States Ambassador to the United Nations (1971–1973), Chairman of the Republican National Committee (1973–1974), Chief of the United States Liaison Office in the People’s Republic of China (1974–1976), and Director of Central Intelligence (1976–1977).

She(HRC in '93) was put in charge of health care with a democratic president, democratic congress, and with polls showing 80%(??) support for universal health care. Yet she managed to fail.
----------------------------
Remember what happened to other Democrats during the Clinton years. Fewer senators, fewer representatives, fewer governors, fewer state legislators.
--
Republicans gained control of both houses of Congress for the first time in more than 40 years after the 1994 elections.
Democrats lost control of the U.S. House of Representatives for the first time in 40 years, along with control of the Senate and 10 gubernatorial seats---

Keep in mind that there were also party switches from 1992 to 1996 election(1994 was bad for Dems):
Democratic # of senators went from 56 to 47 to 45. Republican # of senators went 44-53-55.
House of Rep. was 258-198-206 for Dems.
House of Rep was 176-236-228 for Repubs.
House of Rep had 1 Ind.
Governors were Dem 21/Repub 14 then changed in 1994 to Dem 11/Repub 24.(no real shift..+-one.. in gov party control in 1996).

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Judy B, Nevada City, California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:58:12 GMT

Why I am voting for Barack Obama.

Hillary voted for the war - Barack had the guts and good judgment to denounce it.

Hillary does not have 35 years judicial experience. She has 8 years as a senator. Barack has 11 years judicial experience.

Hillary spent 17 years working for the Rose law firm, including sitting on the Board of WalMart, a corporation that denies the majority of its workers health benefits and has one of the worst records in the country for compliance with labor laws. Barack worked on the streets of Chicago instead of taking a plum job with a corporate law firm.

Hillary talks about being a champion for women's rights, but, if she's going to count her 8 years as First Lady as experience, she must then take responsibility for killing the federal welfare program that deeply wounded millions of women and children, only with caving into big media with the Telecommunications Act and selling out to banks with the Financial Services Modernization Act.

As far as their positions on the Immigration issue, I believe providing driver's licenses to illegal immigrants is imperative to ensuring immigration reform. That would be the first step to documenting the immigrants existence and whereabouts, not to mention protection against unisured driving. At least we'll know what we're dealing with when we develop a sound immigration policy.

Finally, Hillary's original health care system did not work because she worked behind closed doors. Do you really think she'll work for reform with an open door now? She cannot do it because she is too indebted to the drug companies and other big interests to really develop a plan that will make a difference. And, don't forget that she's taken huge donations from big defense contractors and PACS. Obama has taken none. Again, great judgment.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Cory, Tampa, Florida — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:59:37 GMT

I am surprised that it took the media and "experts" to realize that Romney's religion was the only issue that kept him from a landslide win. Without it the establishment never would have went hunting for a bumbling gomer pyle called huckabee who they knew that only evangelicals (a population that would never support McCain) would support. Romney would have won Iowa, and McCain never would have had the money to go any further. It's also interesting to note that when you look at the debates, when there was a state that McCain would win Huckleberry would try his best to look like a fool. Then look at him in the last debate when it could hurt Romney most he finally showed a little more intelligence. A vote for Hucklebee is a vote for McCain which is a vote for an unelectable person in the main race. If you agree with McCain on most issues you are liberal or a democrat and why wouldn't they vote for the democrat. Even the democratic congressman on many many occasions have expressed that they most fear Romney as the GOP nominee! If McCain wins then once again the Repulicans have allowed the media to chalk up another victory.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

independent2 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:59:48 GMT

Hillary by far stood out in last night debate with real solutions to many of the problems our country now faces. Obama is just good at one liners, but has no intelligent answers. Hillary won this one hand down.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marty, Yorktown VA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:00:02 GMT

If Dubya can be president, then obviously it does not take much training to fill the role. Obama has enough experience, and I am sure he will surround himself with experienced intelligent individuals. Hillary is a good candidate also, but unfortunately we Democrats are in the position of trying to put our best fighter up against theirs. What is wrong with this country anyway? Is it really not big enough for more than 2 parties!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:00:03 GMT

Apparently, many experienced and well-respected Senators with FAR more Washington experience than Hillary Clinton obviously feel that lack of experience in Washington doesn't mean much, as they are endorsing Obama. For example:

US Senator Edward(Ted) Kennedy-(46 years --Senior senator, and Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary)
US Senator Patrick Leahy (33 years as a US Senator, and chairmain of the judiciary committee)
US Senator John Kerry (23 years as a US Senator and 2004 Democratic presidential nominee)
Former US Senator Tom Daschle (18 years as a US Senator, and former Senate majority/minority leader)
Former US Senator Bill Bradley (18 years as a US Senator)
US Senator Kent Conrad (16 years as a US Senator)
US Senator Dick Durbin (11 years as a US Senator, plus 14 years as a US represenative, and Senate Majority Whip - ie, 2nd highest ranking member of the Senate)
US Senator Tim Johnson (11 years as a US Senator, plus 10 years as a US representative)
US Senator Ben Nelson (7 years as a US Senator, plus 8 years as a governor)

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Seattle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:00:32 GMT

I am shocked by all the Obama support for presidency. Please consider his record of voting! Obama was elected by the people Illinios to speak for them and did he, NO! He voted "present" on many important issues before him, that is NOT even having an opinion! What makes Obama supporters think he will consider your important concerns as president? It is really EASY to say how you "would" have voted on an issue (Iraq) when you weren't even there in a place of legislation to be honored to vote! Will he even speak for you, listen to you? NO, I can't feed my family with a speech, can you?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Larry, the Albuquerque Cable guy — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:00:39 GMT

If the media had done their jobs in the run up to war with Iraq rather than spreading the White House's garbage, we would not be having this conversation. No senator would have voted yes if they were being told the truth by our government or the main stream media. The New York Times should be ashamed of the Iraq reporting by Judith Miller that they published. The entire media, newspapers, television, radio, owe this country due to their disservice.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

geebee — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:00:52 GMT

Afetrwatching last nite-- the final embrace got me thinking--- what a powerhouse we have in having them both as Pres and VP.. against the old men (and ideas) of the Goofy Old Party. First 4 years--Hill Pres; Obama VP..2nd 4 years Obama Pres..Hill VP...why not folks?? Think about it!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ed Tilley, Wilmington, NC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:01:18 GMT

I am so amazed that MSNBC/NBC will not give Senator Clinton a break. I thought she was very impressive last night. I also thought Senator Obama did well. I thought Senator Clinton showed an impressive command of the issues as well as the warm side of her personality. I no longer watch Keith Oberman as he is so biased against Mrs. Clinton. I really do believe that all these white guys at NBC ie Russert, Matthews, Oberman have difficulty with strong women. Their bias is breath taking. I really think all three need sensitivity training.
I should add that one of the reasons the debate last night was more civil was because John Edwards was not in the debate. I found him to be divisive. It was nice to see Senator Clinton and Senator Obama engage in thoughtful discourse. I do think that CNN especially Wolf Blitzer did another good job of handling the debate. I hope Brian Williams and Tim Russert were watching.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Steve, TX — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:02:20 GMT

How about just plain old - "Men have had enough shots at this mess, let a woman have a go" - I have personally suffered under this christian hate group that has been running the white house so I want change - thanks

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jim Hanson — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:02:22 GMT

for democrats on the fence, consider this:

TOP GOAL: BEAT THE REPUBLICANS

RASMUSSEN POLLS CONSISTENTLY SHOW HUGE NUMBERS OF VOTERS WILL _NOT_ VOTE FOR HILLARY.

48% of voters said they definitely WILL NOT vote for hillary. that is a major uphill battle to win an absolutely critical election--against mccain, a man who appeals to independents and moderates.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Richard, Pennsylvania — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:02:54 GMT

As for the debate, the undecided Democrats in the CNN focus group basicaly said Hillary won, 60-40. So much for focus groups?
My wife keeps asking me when Barack Obama voted against the war (she says he continually supports the funding of the troops). Please help me answer her!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ellen B, Greensboro, NC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:03:04 GMT

Obama's claim that he was "right" on Iraq and will be "right on day one" is almost laughable. It is easy to be "right" when your opinion has no consequence. Obama has actually admitted that had he actually been IN THE SENATE in 2002 and had seen the intelligence reports, he did not know how he would have voted. Audacious? Maybe. Pandering. Absolutely.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

R. Forbes, Orlando FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:03:18 GMT

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
OBAMA HAS MADE HIS LIFE about helping others, not about ambition. He is not a divisive figure, but rather an inspiring one. There is nothing better than inspiration to get people off their bums and get things accomplished, and he has the depth of though to ensure follow-through. He has judgement, character, class, brilliant intelligence, wisdom, charisma, and a great smile to boot!! :)

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?
DEMOCRACY WORKS FROM THE BOTTOM UP. Obama will unite all (you already see it happening within this campaign) to coalesce around commone goals, which is what will get things done & changed in Washington...on a broader plane than what he's already done throughout his entire career. Also he's non-judgemental, which keeps people at the bargaining table, but can still be tough WHEN NECESSARY!!

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?
OBAMA WILL BEAT THE GOP (likely McCain) because he was against the war (which 70% of Americans want us out), because he's against the Bush tax cuts (which McCain is for...now), and because he is fresh & inspiring, not just to Americans but to the entire world that is watching this election as intently as we are. I am living proof of that; Obama has inspired me to register for college for a dregree in journalism and political science! (I'm a single latina Mother of one teenager).

FIRED UP!! LET'S GO CHANGE THE WORLD!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Travis K., Boise ID — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:03:57 GMT

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
Barack Obama has an inspiration and charisma not seen in a presidential contender since Bill Clinton. Perhaps this is one of those times when we need to lay aside how much 'experience' he has as an issue, and let his drive and ambition take the reigns.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?
Barack Obama wants change from the inside out. He wants to return us to the great nation we were not even a decade ago before the Republicans with their war-drum politics changed how we are percepted by the world community. Obama can restore the global faith in us as a nation and help unite even our own different factions.

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?
Quite honestly, I don't feel Romney nor McCain have anywhere near the popularity of the Democratic candidates and that there are so many disenfranchised voters of all stripes that the Democratic nominees will energize them to get out and vote--much like they did two years ago when the Republicans lost the House and Senate majority.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Suzi, San Francisco — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:04:05 GMT

HILLARY ROCKED that debate last night!!!!
OBAMA DID A GOOD JOB AS WELL.
But for me, it was evident who really does have more experience.
Hillary was so strong last night.
Obama seemed to falter - don't get me wrong, he has the charisma and the voice that draws so many people. This election is about the issues for our country, and for me Hillary greatly outshined. On some issues Obama seemed to lose himself.
Hillary was to the point, confident, intelligent, displayed more knowledge of international affairs and connections, her detailed solutions for our country hit home with me more than his did, given the similarities.
I was so proud of Hillary and feel proud to say that she is my choice for the next President of the United States.
For me is was the sight and sound of near perfection as one of the strongest women in this country.
i hope that everyone gets the opportunity to see this debate IN FULL.
You know the media will clip it apart. It was an awesome debate.
And yes it was quite a moment at the end when you saw them both together.
I see a Clinton-Obama ticket for the next 8 years, and then Obama for the following. I don't dislike him, but he needs more time. She is ready now.
HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Be proud of yourself!!!!!!!!!!!
I told myself last night after the debate that regardless of who wins, she is first in my book, and I know in my heart and mind she is the best choice - win or lose, she wins anyway with me.
GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO CLINTON/OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

andrea benini - miami, fla — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:05:28 GMT

Hillary gets my vote. She is strong, articulate and experienced. She's 'been there, done that' and has learned from her mistakes. Any other candidate, rep or dem to me is irrelevent. Go hillary !!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Robin — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:05:41 GMT

The Iraq topic did not tip the debate for me. There were a lot of people Democrats included, who felt we should go after Saddam for human rights violations/WMD and Al Queda. Point is a good president will have to make hard decisions. We forget that Bush did have an agenda. Just because Barack Obama didn't vote for the war doesn't mean he wouldn't have worked toward removing Saddam for human rights violations or chasing Osama Bin Laden.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Eliot, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:06:09 GMT

To NY NY: "I don't know what has happened to Keith Olberman, but he has now become as biased against Hillary as Chris Matthews. I think it's a shame what has happened to MSNBC."

Boy, I am so glad I am not alone in feeling exactly the same way. Kieth perhaps has been spending too much time hanging around Matthews. As for MSNBC the Abrams Report is pretty much all I tune into now.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom Guy Reynoldsburg, Ohio(east Columbus) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:07:11 GMT

why is everyone so naive?

where is obama getting all the money?

-republicans(disguised as democrats)

why are the news stations spinning against clinton?

big corporations!

if you think the clintons will do anything to get in the whitehouse, remember the dead kennedies? how about that bald guy with the glasses, karl something, o yeah, rove... the clintons are the only ones with balls enough to shove those dirty republicans back into the firestorms they make.

remember this, the rich people with bush's tax cuts own the media, those are the greedy bastards who want two americas, the rich and the poor, no middle class, they will do anything to stay in power!

if any of you think the gay rights amendment to the constitution was an underhanded trick to get the republican voters to the poles. you're in for a rude awakening when you see how many republicans flock to the poles to route an african-american as president... does anyone remember the tenn. senate election?

and if that doesnt convince you. who do you think the republicans think they can mold to there desires more, obama(yep carter again, too nice) or clinton...

you people arent raising the subject of racial differences because of political 'correctness', but listen up, the fascist(and there may only be a few) on the right are going to line up to push the button on our dark skinned friend. and think about it, that button may turn into a trigger...

whatever, if you're not old enough or smart enough to remember segregation only happened yesterday, then you deserve more republican judges and america turning into orwell's worst nightmare...

have nice dreams,

(you may want to sleep through the next 9 years.)

t

p.s. no, im not trying to scare you into voting for someone, it's just my sarcastic attitude about everything showing through. i really want a democrat in the whitehouse. if im wrong and obama does great things, ill be just as happy as anyone else who votes for him. im just letting a little light in and hoping you'll take off your blinders to make sure you have the whole story straight.

and whoever wrote obama sounds like a terrorist name isnt a democrat, thats one of those dirty republicans misrepresenting themselves again.

im a true democrat and will vote against any republican for president. just think of all the true republicans raised during segregation that will do anything it takes to make sure the all white boys club isnt turned grey.

the thought that the clinton's will flock republicans to the poles is backwards and the media's spin(owned by big corporations with tax cuts that are in the billions in some cases) they will flock like lambs to the slaughter when they see black...

behind every word you hear on tv, remember who's saying it, billionaires...

peace

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Cheryl Knoxville, TN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:08:41 GMT

Smirky smile Hillary is so fake in all that she says and all that she does. She is just old-line politics in a smirky-smile face. When will people see behind her glibness and insincerity?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom Guy Reynoldsburg, Ohio(east Columbus) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:09:23 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom Guy Reynoldsburg, Ohio(east Columbus) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:09:29 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom Guy Reynoldsburg, Ohio(east Columbus) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:09:33 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom Guy Reynoldsburg, Ohio(east Columbus) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:09:41 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

chris houston,texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:09:51 GMT

What debate were some of you guys watching!!!!!!Barack Obama clearly won this debate and the tone was just right to make the clear distinctions between the candidates. No one liked the tit-for-tat debate a few weeks ago but this time the answer is clear. Clinton was dumbfounded with some of the questions, constantly over-ran the alotted time and, for a minute there I thought she was fillerbustering. In fact, I can't even remember one single question she answered fully.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Justin, Iowa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:10:23 GMT

I am also supporting Barack Obama for many of the same reasons that the young lady from Iowa (Go Hawkeyes) has previously stated.

I would like to add to what she so eloquently described as Obama's ability to engaged individuals in our process i.e. Democracy. In my opinion our country's lack of participation in our most basic right is the main reason that 'W' has been able to lead (if that properly describes it) our county down this horrible path.

I've seen this ability from Barack Obama with my own eyes on caucus night. As a precinct captian I joined with seniors, high schoolers, college kids, black, white, independents, and yes even some converted republicans (most had never caucused before)to send a message to the rest of the country that a new day in our politics is indeed upon us.

As a 20-something I've never lived in this country when either a Bush or a Clinton hasn't played some part in trying to lead it. It's time for positive change and I truly believe Barack Obama can deliver this change.

Hillary Clinton loves to state that the stakes have never been higher. She's right, so pick a candidate that can bring truly bring everyone together to achieve a common goal or prepare for another 4 years with a Republican in the White House.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

CW — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:10:30 GMT

Every one needs to settle down and think this through. Are you kidding me, never been so inspried since Jesus. Are you comparing Obama to Jesus? I gaurentee you he is not going to walk on water. Get it straight. Obama is a POLITICIAN! Same as Hilary, she is not "whats her name"! Everyone here is placing thier lives and the future of this country on hype! Its all a big marketing campaign and Obama supporters are falling for it. Our next president needs to have the experience, good or bad, of the tactics and underhandedness that is our Washington, DC if they have any hopes of surviving and making the changes that are needed for this once great country. At least with Hilary you know what you are getting. Hilary is a strong candidate with the passison and experience we need.I really dont care about her personal life with Bill. When Bill was president my family did better than ever before, we flourished, we had a small business and I never had to worry about my kids having a hot meal. Bring back those days..the fact that Hilary stayed married to him while things were bad personally only tells me she is commited to her word. Everyone has a closet full of bones...everyone....Go Hilary!
Side note: I would love a Clinton/Obama ticket, or vise-versa! That would be great!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jay, Iowa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:12:06 GMT

I don’t know if this radiates with anyone else but for what it’s worth, I think our country does itself a disservice when it’s perception of the presidency is tantamount to a family affair.

If I’m serious about the role that I play in the election process, if I hold to heart a sense of citizenship even a little bit, then I come away with the idea that in a free democratic society, the sense entitlement should not be an ingredient necessary for the highest office in our land. “It’s my turn” should not be part of the platform of any person’s campaign regardless if it’s perpetuated by the candidate or their constituents. More importantly, as a voter, I think it fundamentally contradicts the notion freedom, civil liberties and civic responsibility.

In my assessment, I feel that I should be more responsible in the election process than to just resign myself to selecting public officials based on name recognition. When it comes to the presidency of the United States the very definition of democracy is grossly compromised when all we’re doing as citizens is electing family members to the White House.

My concern here is nonpartisan. It’s pretty close to a consensus that No. 43 was a disaster for this nation. And if that is the consensus then I can’t help but attribute some of that blame to the notion of the fact that No. 43 probably should have never been president in the first place. But since No.41 is his father, No. 43 makes the case that he is also worthy of the same office. What you end up getting is someone who wants to BE president more than someone willing to SERVE as president.

In more modern times, when the office of the presidency gets perceived to be a family affair it never seems never ends well—regardless of party. In the case of No.43 all you need do is pick up a newspaper and read about the economy, or foreign affairs, or the countless issues of ethics surrounding the administration. But you can also go back and look to No.35 and his younger brother for proof; a story that ended tragically for both. That’s not to suggest that level of extreme today, my point is to say that when we get into this presidential family thing it never seems to end well.

Totally free democracies should not be anchored to a small handful of estates when looking for leadership—At least not when so much is at stake. We should be more responsible. I don’t know about anyone else but when I go to the poll to cast my ballot for No. 44, as well as everyone else on the ballot in this election cycle, I can say with confidence that I am casting the ballot for who I hope will be the best for US as a nation a and not just who I like personally.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

steve thompson — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:12:19 GMT

Why are the socialists, Billary, still alive?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:12:22 GMT

------Barack Obama------
EDUCATION

Harvard Law School, J.D. 1991, Magna Cum Laude.
President, Harvard Law Review
Executive Board, Black Law Students' Association
Columbia University, Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, 1983

US Senator from Illinois 2004-present
Senate Foreign Relations Commitee
Senate Commitee on Veterans' Affairs
Senate Commitee on Health, Education, Labor, Pensions
Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

Illinois State Senator - 13th Legislative District, Chicago, 1996 - 2004
Minority Spokesperson for the Public Health & Welfare Committee, Member of the Judiciary and Revenue Committees, Co-Chair of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.
Areas of legislative interest include welfare reform; public school funding and accountability; tax accountability and tax fairness; campaign finance and ethics reform; job training and workforce preparation; economic development and technology access; and juvenile justice issues.

University of Chicago Law School
Senior Lecturer, 1993 -

Miner, Barnhill & Galland, P.C.
Of Counsel, 1996 -
Specializing in civil rights and voting rights litigation, employment law, and the representation of not-for-profit and community development corporations in urban redevelopment activities.
Associate, 1993 - 1996
Litigated voting rights and employment cases, wrote appellate briefs and argued appeals in the United States Court of Appeals, helped to structure and finance efforts to construct mixed-income housing to replace public housing in and around Cabrini Green, served as general counsel to community health clinics, social service agencies, and charter schools throughout Chicago.

Illinois Project Vote
Director, April 1992 - November 1992
Organized and directed a voter registration and education campaign targeted at minority and low-income voters in Cook County. Recruited and managed 10 paid staff and 700 volunteers; helped raise $200,000 for the project; coordinated a companion multi-media campaign; established office and reporting systems. Resulted in approximately 150,000 newly registered voters in the 1992 Presidential election.

Developing Communities Project
Director, June 1985 - June 1988
Organized and directed a not-for-profit community development program in low-income areas of Chicago's Far South Side. With a membership of over twenty churches and civic groups, the organization trained local leaders to formulate and execute a range of community development projects, including job training programs for area unemployed, college prep programs for low-income students, parent initiatives to reform public schools, and campaigns to clean up hazardous waste sites.

Business International Corporation
Writer/Financial Analyst, January 1984 - January 1985
Researched, wrote and edited articles, reports, and how-to manuals on international business and finance for multinational corporations.

Honors

Outstanding Legislator Awards from Campaign for Better Health Care and Illinois Primary Health Care Association, 1998

Best Freshman Legislator Award from Independent Voters of Illinois/Independent Precinct Organizations, 1997

Legal Eagle Award for litigation leading to Illinois' compliance with national "Motor Voter" Legislation, 1995

Monarch Award for Outstanding Public Service, 1994

Crain's Chicago Business "40 Under 40" Award, 1993

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

CW, Indiana — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:12:31 GMT

@ NY, NY: Perhaps you need to read the article a little closer. He was not saying that celebrities can not be politically active, but rather there is a perception out there that Dems are a little too close to celebs - or maybe more precise, the 'wacky' celebs you see in the news figting for extreme ideas shed a bad light on the Dems.

It's easy to find biased journalism if it already exists in your mind.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mark Indiana — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:13:11 GMT

GO BUSH !!!!!!!!

Dem's are illusionistist, get a life.

M Cain - Rice ticket will win it.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:13:44 GMT

Where Obama's Journey Began

CHICAGO, April 27, 2007
--------------
(CBS) When Barack Obama arrived on Chicago's South Side, he was on a mission to help. The fires of the once-vibrant steel industry had already died, there were 326,000 people unemployed, and nearly 70 percent of public school children were living below the poverty line.

"It was a lot of poverty there, but a lot of pride," says Loretta Augustine, a community activist.

Chicago was in the midst of a political firestorm. Harold Washington, the city's first black mayor, had taken the reins and racial tensions were running high, CBS Evening News anchor Katie Couric reports.

It was at a church, in 1984, where Obama came to work as a community organizer for a faith-based group called the Developing Communities Project. He worked in Altgeld Gardens, a racially segregated housing project on Chicago's far South Side. In a city where political power means everything, the people of Altgeld were invisible.

"To a great extent, we were powerless," Augustine says.

Obama's challenge was to empower the impoverished residents of Altgeld Gardens and turn them into political players. But older members of the group were skeptical of the 23-year-old Columbia University graduate.

"How was this kid gonna be any help to them?" says Gerry Kellman, who hired Obama.

But over time, Obama earned their trust and figured out how to make those voices heard.

"What Barack had to do was instill confidence in those folks," Kellman says.

Then there was a crucial meeting: A representative from the mayor's office tried to take over — and suddenly the South Side activist rose up.

"From the back of the room came Barack's voice, and he says, 'We want to hear from Loretta. Let Loretta talk,'" Augustine recalls. "And in that instant, he changed the meeting and focused right back on our agenda."

Today, still surrounded by 53 toxic waste dumps, Altgeld Gardens is often called "the toxic donut." In 1967, Augustine's 6-year-old daughter died of leukemia — which she's convinced was caused by toxic waste. Yet no one was listening to the people in the neighborhood.

"We found out there was a secret meeting in South Chicago on this issue and we had been excluded," she says.

Obama and 300 community members marched to that secret meeting.

"You cannot leave the community out of the process. It was so powerful," Augustine says.

Most people stayed in that job for four months. Obama continued to fight for four years, cutting his teeth on community activism. — the first measure of his leadership skills that are now being tested on a much larger stage.

"Barack came here very idealistic, and he left much more practical," Kellman says.

"He left, but he didn't leave us," adds Augustine. "We claim him."

video
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/04/27/eveningnews/main2737505.shtml

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:14:56 GMT

Obama helped to deliver the first significant campaign finance reform law in Illinois in 25 years. He brought law enforcement groups around to back legislation requiring that homicide interrogations be taped and helped bring about passage of the state’s first racial-profiling law. He was a chief sponsor of a law enhancing tax credits for the working poor, played a central role in negotiations over welfare reform and successfully pushed for increasing child care subsidies (NYT, 7/30/07). Here in Chicago, Obama worked as lead organizer for the Developing Communities Project, a campaign funded by south-side Catholic churches to counteract the dislocation and massive unemployment caused by the closing and downsizing of southeast Chicago steel plants. (ChicagoReader 12/8/95) As a Chicago community organizer, Obama notched accomplishments ranging from job-training programs to a successful attempt to improve city services at the Altgeld Gardens housing project, chaired a voter-registration drive that helped carry Illinois for Democratic presidential candidate Bill Clinton in 1992 and led an effort to acquire state money for a dropout prevention program that still operates today.

"As a state legislator, Obama worked with both Democrats and Republicans in drafting successful legislation on ethics and health care reform. He sponsored a law enhancing tax credits for low-income workers, negotiated welfare reform, and promoted increased subsidies for child care. He expanded healthcare to include 154.000 people in Illinois(including 70,000 children). Obama also led the passage of legislation mandating videotaping of homicide interrogations, and a law to monitor racial profiling by requiring police to record the race of drivers they stopped. During his 2004 general election campaign for U.S. Senate, Obama won the endorsement of the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police, whose president credited him with having been "immensely helpful in working with police organizations" on death penalty reform."

Although Barack Obama has represented urban areas of the country where gun violence was a community concern, he has been a long-time and consistent supporter of all Americans’ right to bear arms. Senator Obama has led the way in protecting our law enforcement officials by cracking down on armor-piercing bullets while also protecting individual rights of hunters and gun owners.

o Obama said he supported better enforcement of existing gun laws, not new ones. Obama said he supported “common sense gun control measures. For now, the federal government should focus on better enforcement of existing gun laws, rather than creating new ones.”

o Obama voted to give concealed carry for retired police and military. Obama voted to allow retired peace officers and military personnel who have served honorably for at least 10 years to receive a permit to concealed firearms. He was the only Chicago Democrat to do that. [93rd GA, SB 2188, 3/26/04, 3R P; 40-13-1]

o Obama voted to allow the use of a handgun for hunting. Obama voted to allow the use of a handgun during the open hunting season for deer. [93rd GA, SB 257, 3/24/03, 3R P; 47-5-2; 5/28/03, HA 1 SC; 55-2-0]

o Obama said municipalities should control local gun regulations, not the state. ‘That law eviscerated anti-handgun ordinances in some communities… The way I feel, Wilmette should not determine Mattoon’s firearms ordinances and Mattoon should not determine Wilmette’s.’&r dquo ; Obama said, “I don’t necessarily support those (gun-ban) laws… but I think local communities should have the right to pass them, and that’s what this law was about.” [Chicago Tribune, 10/8/04; Springfield Journal-Register, 6/3/04]

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Weisz, Ojai, California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:15:00 GMT

I may be the one lone voice here with a completely different perspective.

I am a new US Citizen, first time voter here, originating from a 800 year old stable democracy. (Switzerland), Business Exec with Marketing/Sales/PR background.

What I take out of this election process, once again beautifully demonstrated during the debate yesterday is a non-committal, streamlined, windtunnel shaped and poll and focus group defined group of candidates trying to promise everything to everyone, depending on the current state or audience. Disclaimers in almost every single statement. Excellent debaters, smooth, elegant, rhetorically impeccable. Smiles so strongly cemented into their faces, that I hurt just watching their unnatural body language.

In general, the debate was a television event, put up like an Oscar Party. Did anyone really get solid info on where these people truly stand? Clinton and Obama's economical and social platforms are so beyond pragmatism and feasibility, as far as funding them are concerned, albeit the audience of rich celebrities was spooning those illusions up like honey.

Where is the candidate, who has the guts to clearly tell the American People that nothing comes for free.
That, if you truly want all these so wonderful sounding programs and initiatives, then each and everyone amongst us must be prepared to severely tighten our belts and accept a massive impact on our own standard of life. Where is the honesty and humility of charismatic leaders we used to have and were not afraid to ask us what we can do for the country?

I am sorry, dear Democratic Readers and Republican Right Wingers, but the only candidate I have come to respect here, because he lost an entire State (Iowa) for facing them and telling them that he will cut their outdated subventions for aethanol technology, was McCain. For many more reasons like that I support the one man who was rarely afraid of telling us the truth, as he sees it. Neither Clinton nor Obama nor Romney can unite across the barriers of party lines. John has a track record of doing exactly that, successfully passing legislation together with democrats.

I appreciate the respectful tone here and invite a constructive discussion on my blog at http://ca4mccain.blogspot.com/.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lynn, Tarpon Springs, Fl — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:15:18 GMT

It's not a question of who won the debate though in my mind Senator Clinton clearly did. It's a question of who can win the White House on behalf of the American people this next president will be serving unlike this president who has been nothing but self-serving his entire two terms in office.
Hillary Clinton is by far the more experienced and I believe the only candidate who is ready to lead this country out of its current misery and into leadership status around the world once again.
She is passionate about bringing universal health care to all Americans (I've never understood why she was faulted for trying this back in the 90's...isn't that what our parents teach us, try until you succeed?) and I believe will accomplish this in short order once she's in the oval office. I also believe she'll end the war in the best, fastest possible way because she understands the big picture. And there is no doubt in my mind she will humanely deal with the ILLEGAL immigration issue which is plaguing our country and will get our borders closed and hold employers of undocumented workers accountabe.
I also feel deep in my heart and she is the only one strong enough to stand up for middle America and she is the only one who can truly unite this badly broken country and political entities on both sides of the aisle. It's time we voted with our hearts as well as our minds. We've had enough of uncaring, arrogant, war-mongering white males dominating our lives. Time to put a woman in the White House and Hillary Rodham Clinton is THE WOMAN.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mark Evansville Indiana — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:15:47 GMT

Get a life

GO Bush !!!!!! He cleaned up clintons mess and we're safer and all working. What more do you want.

By the way, 3,700 dead is worth it for what we got. If your worried about deaths, ask yourself why 80,000 amearicans die a year in automobile accidents.

Which kill more...dummie.

Mc Cain - Rice 08---

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:16:27 GMT

As a member of the Democratic minority party of the Senate for six of his eight years there, Obama wrote a health insurance law that covered an additional 20,000 children, a welfare reform law, an earned-income-tax-credit law for working-poor families, and death penalty reform that passed unanimously. During his last two years in the majority, he sponsored 780 bills, 280 of which became law.

Health Insurance: In 2003, Barack Obama sponsored and passed legislation that expanded health care coverage to 70,000 kids and 84,000 adults. In the U.S. Senate, Obama cosponsored the Healthy Kids Act of 2007 and the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) Reauthorization Act of 2007 to ensure that more American children have affordable health care coverage.

Women's Health: Obama worked to pass a number of laws in Illinois and Washington to improve the health of women. His accomplishments include creating a task force on cervical cancer, providing greater access to breast and cervical cancer screenings, and helping improve prenatal and premature birth services.
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/healthcare/

While in the US Senate Obama has passed Lugar-Obama, a bill that expands the Nunn-Lugar cooperative threat reduction concept to conventional weapons, including shoulder-fired missiles and anti-personnel mines. He has also passed the "Coburn-Obama Transparency Act" provides for a web site, managed by the Office of Management and Budget, listing all organizations receiving Federal funds from 2007 onward, and providing breakdowns by the agency allocating the funds, the dollar amount given, and the purpose of the grant or contract. In addition to those two he has also gotten through the "Democratic Republic of the Congo Relief, Security, and Democracy Promotion Act," which had his name on it as the first sponsor.
He also worked with Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI) in strengthening restrictions on travel in corporate jets to S.1, the Legislative Transparency and Accountability Act of 2007. And then Obama sponsored with Kit Bond (R-MO) an amendment to the 2008 Defense Authorization Act adding safeguards for personality disorder military discharges, and calling for a review by the Government Accounting Office following reports that the procedure had been used inappropriately to reduce government costs. He sponsored the "Iran Sanctions Enabling Act" supporting divestment of state pension funds from Iran's oil and gas industry, and joined Chuck Hagel (R-NE) in introducing legislation to prevent nuclear terrorism. He also sponsored a Senate amendment to the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) to provide one year of job protection for family members caring for soldiers with combat-related injuries.
"I sit on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee," he said. "So I have frequent interaction with world leaders who come to visit here, and I take trips on various fact-finding missions, whether it's to Iraq or Russia or Africa. But you know, probably, the strongest experience I have in foreign relations is the fact that I spent four years living overseas when I was a child in Southeast Asia."
"A lot of my knowledge about foreign affairs isn't just what I studied in school -- I studied international relations when I was in college -- it's not just the work I do on the Senate foreign relations committee.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Richard (TX) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:17:05 GMT

I'll be voting for Senator Clinton and not Senator Obama because she articulates not just a vision but DETAILS, specific details while he clearly and with relish states a vision. He is a brilliant man, but he needs time for his ideas to develop supporting facts with which to prove his point and show himself presidential. For the past seven years, we've had a president who articulated a vision of compassionate conservatism and left details to the Vice President and others. We don't need a repeat of that, not in our world of 2008. Thus, Mrs. Clinton will get my vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Eyes Wide Open, VA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:17:13 GMT

Chuck,

1. I believe that both have a decent shot at being president, but Obama has better judgement, and I also like his though process. I believe that if he were elected, he would change the perception of America across the world.

I believe Barack has the charisma, jugdement, the ability to bridge partisan divides, empathy for all americans, and the unique ability to change the way Washington works, from the inside out.

3. Republicans will have a hard time running against Barack Obama because he is not partisan. It will be difficult for them to put him in a "box". Their divide and conquer strategy will fail this time. Barack has the ability to reach out and influence independents and young people, which will be key in this election.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, Land O Lakes, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:17:26 GMT

I think Obama/Clinton ticket would be a wining formula, but not so much the other way around.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ron, Waynesboro, VA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:17:28 GMT

Here's why I will vote for OBAMA.

1. Obama clearly has the ability to unite the country, unlike Hillary. The Clinton's, as much as I like them and the pre-Bush Clinton Presidency, remain a divisive force in American politics, roughly half the country (and very few republicans) will never support them. So we will always have an us vs. them mentality with a Clinton presidency.

2. Because of the above, Obama has a much better shot at winning a clear mandate with the voters come November. Clinton will win a very thin victory in a general election, if she wins at all. McCain has a real shot against her because of his more liberal stand on immigration and social/environmental issues. Thus he will be able to attract more independents and maybe even some democrats come November.

3. Obama has a unique ability to bring new voters into the process and energize the country. He is an inspiring figure who will serve us well when dealing not only with our citizens, but also with foreign countries and their citizens. He will restore our respect and standing with the world community.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Brenda, Cherry Hill, NJ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:17:46 GMT

I'm voting for Barack because he is a wonderful speaker, and very positive. I would vote for barnyard animals in lieu of Hillary Clinton because of the following: 3 years ago, I became permanently disabled. I sent my oldest child to stay with her father because I didn't want to burden her with her younger brother, sister, and myself. Nor, did I want to "ruin" her high school years. Upon arriving in New York State (Western New York) her father, who owed me several thousand dollars in back child support; proceeded to file for child support. This man at the time (and still is-a healthy,white 40 something male). He has NEVER held a full-time job. for more than 6 months. The Courts in Western New York wanted 1/2 my SSD (which was less than $700. And, ordered that I put her on my Medicare (which you can't do). They also said Social Security erred and that my oldest child should get the full dependent stipend rather than it being split three ways. The state of NJ where I now live, and Social Security said this was absurd. I figured call Hillary, she knows women. I have all the paperwork here. I sent a 23 page fax to her New York City Office. I was told that this wasn't the "kind" of thing the Senator was interested in. I phoned John Corzine's office. He was Senator at the time. His office told me to phone Chuck Schumer's office. Mr. Schumer's office got it all taken care of and told me EXACTLY what to do. Now I don't appreciate Billary saying they have spent years helping the poor; because that is straight-up horse crap. She is a self-absorbed harpie. I will supmit my paperwork to anyone who wants to look at it. I am unaware of why Corzine endorsed Billary, maybe the accident knocked the sense out of him. GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:18:18 GMT

As a member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, Senator Obama is committed to helping the heroes who defend our nation today and the veterans who fought in years past.

In January 2007, Senator Obama reintroduced the Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act to improve the VA’s planning process to avoid budget shortfalls in the future.
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He authored the Sheltering All Veterans Everywhere Act (SAVE Act) to strengthen and expand federal homeless veteran programs that serve over 100,000 homeless veterans annually.
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Part of the Lane Evans Veterans Health and Benefits Improvement Act, which Senator Obama reintroduced in January 2007, would help veterans transition from the DOD health system to the VA system by extending the window in which new veterans can get mental health care from two years to five years.
READ MORE AT:
http://obama.senate.gov/issues/veterans/

--
Honoring Our Veterans
http://origin.barackobama.com/issues/veterans/

Barack Obama fully supports funding the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), a successful program that provides federal funds for hiring officers and acquiring equipment. President Bush proposed to slash COPS funding by 80 percent while Senator Obama believes this funding must be restored. Barack Obama voted to increase the penalty for assaulting a police officer with a deadly weapon and increased penalties for assaults upon a peace officer in general.

Barack Obama respects the Second Amendment right of gun owners and believes we can pass and enforce common sense gun laws to keep guns away from children and from criminals who should not be allowed to possess them due to their past conduct. He is also a strong supporter of making the expired federal Assault Weapons Ban permanent, and believe such weapons belong on battlefields and not on our streets. Gun owners and hunters have absolutely nothing to fear from an Obama presidency.

Obama favors restoring firefighter funds for equipment and training which President Bush has fought to cut, as well as full support for our nation's first responders such as police, firefighters and emergency medical professionals.

Obama co-sponsored the Combat Meth Act of 2005 which puts federal funds into the fight against methamphetamine, provides assistance to children affected by meth abuse and places restrictions on the sale of the ingredients used to make the drug. Obama supports while Bush has opposed grant programs to provide funds for specialized units of law enforcement officials to investigate and prosecute drug dealers within Lee County.

Barack Obama introduced legislation to combat domestic violence by providing $25 million per year for partnerships between domestic violence prevention organizations to combat violence against women. In our country approximately 1,400 women die as a result of domestic violence and one in four women in the United States will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. Barack Obama co-sponsored the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, a measure that encourages law enforcement and community organizations to provide services, grants and education to prevent sexual assault, domestic violence and dating violence.

Barack Obama helped create a national sex offender database through co-sponsorship of Dru's law and co-sponsored the sex offender registration and notification act which increases penalties against those who commit sex crimes against children under the age of 12.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

CC, Chicago,IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:18:49 GMT

I am a white 37 year old female Republican who is going to vote for Barack Obama. No offense to women, but I just cannot get passed the "vote for Hillary" mindset just because she is a woman. Honestly, Obama can take many votes from the Republicans, I wish you all could see, that this a one way ticket to the White House for the Democrats. If Hillary were to be the nominee, I would vote Republican no matter who the Republican nominee would be. It would be against some of my beliefs and better judgements but Hillary is not an option for me and I can say without a doubt that many a Republican feels this way.

I am also classed as "the wealthy" of this country (whom so many believe that we should give all our money to the government, because for some unexplained reason we "deserve" it..) So this means I am going to get socked with more taxes and I still will vote for Obama!

Sometimes there are more important issues than money, one of them being I have a sick father with health insurance issues that pale in comparison to my taxes getting raised "again". I believe Obama can fix these very important issues.

If all of you (Democrats) want to change the course of this country, you should take off your rose coloured glasses for just one minute, the opportunity is staring you right in the face, grab ahold of it... and that is coming from a Republican....

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

chuck paree 1811roundhilldr anderson in. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:19:30 GMT

I believeus men seem to afraid of strong women we need to change.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jeff, Beaverton, OR — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:19:41 GMT

Barack Obama is my candidate:

1. Although both Clinton and Obama seem to have a good handle on the issues, what we need at this point in time is a leader who can unite the country and work effectively with folks from both sides of the aisle to actually make progress. Clinton may have the right ideas but will have a more difficult time than Obama getting past the partisanship and actually realizing these ideas. Obama strikes me as one who can achieve this. Secondly, we badly need a leader at this point who commands respect from leaders of other nations. It may not be fair, but the Clinton baggage of the past will come back to haunt her in this area. I believe Senator Obama is a leader who has the Charisma and the respectability to help our country rebuild trust with other nations.

2. A lot has been said about experience, and the fact that Senator Clinton has been around Washington, and the White House in particular, than Senator Obama has. However, I believe Obama is no fool. He will surround himself with cabinet members and advisors who are experienced and understand the issues well. Senator Clinton would be a great example of one who would make an excellent top cabinet member. Her husband Bill would be a very valuable resource to keep close by as a consultant of sorts. Our leader, however, needs to be a person who can listen carefully to the voices of experience, make sound judgements, and then have the charisma and respectability to get others to follow. Senator Obama is the person who can do that, within our country as well as abroad.

3. Again, while it may not be fair, the republicans will use every trick to try to win the election, including bringing up the past "indiscressions" from the previous Clinton presidency. Senator Obama will be much tougher to swing the undecideds and independents against. Voters will be more able to listen to the voice of reason on the issues when they aren't as distracted by the inevitable republican smear campaign.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Frank, St Louis — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:19:49 GMT

Don't you just WISH that Iraq tipped the debate. She's still polling ahead in most all important states. In a couple days we shall see if there is a shift toward Clinton or Obama either way. The woman has b---- much bigger than Obamas, no doubt.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:20:06 GMT

Ensuring that the Voting Section Protects the Right to Vote:

Barack Obama has been a life-long defender of voting rights. After law school, he registered 150,000 new voters in Chicago. As a civil rights lawyer, he defended minority voters who challenged redistricting plans that diluted their vote. As a constitutional law lecturer, he taught classes on voting rights. And in the US Senate, he has led the fight to reauthorize the Voting Rights Act, to oppose discriminatory photo-ID laws and improve our election machinery. His " Deceptive Practices and Voter Intimidation Prevention Act", which has passed the House of Representatives and the Senate Judiciary Committee, will enable investigations into deceptive and fraudulent practices. It establishes significant, harsh penalties for those who have engaged in fraud, and it provides voters who have been misinformed with accurate and full information so they can vote.

---
UPDATE OF 12/20/07: Washington, DC – Today, Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) and Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA) announced that a provision authored by Obama and Senator Hagel (R-NE) in the Senate and advanced by Schiff in the House requiring a comprehensive nuclear threat reduction plan passed as part of the omnibus appropriations bill. This provision requires the President to submit to Congress a comprehensive plan for ensuring that all nuclear weapons and weapons-usable material at vulnerable sites around the world are secure by 2012 from the threats that terrorists have shown they can pose. The Senate passed the omnibus appropriations bill last night and the House approved the same bill today. It will now be sent to the President to be signed into law.

Barack Obama is on the following committees in the US senate:

Senate Foreign Relations Commitee
Senate Commitee on Veterans' Affairs
Senate Commitee on Health, Education, Labor, Pensions
Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

John Cobb, Jackson, MS — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:21:13 GMT

Hillary is a power-hungry, arrogant, spoiled brat. She will destroy this country if she gets elected. Why can't people see this? She will destroy both the born and unborn. At least Bush was pro-life.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Private — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:21:29 GMT

Obama being president would be the same a having George Bush. The man knows nothing.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ed Pulido, Slidell, Louisiana — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:21:34 GMT

My vote is for Senator Clinton. She is better qualified and can defeat the epublican candidate.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Steve L. Only, MD — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:21:59 GMT

To Chuck's question about choosing a candidate.

When it comes to choosing a candidate if you believe a wrong vote on Iraq is enough to disqualify a person I think you have to vote for Obama.

My own decision on this was something I thought about a lot. I remember the climate in this country when that vote was taken and quite frankly the vast majority of the American people were on the wrong side. 77 senators (I think) including a good many democrats that are pretty good people got that vote wrong. As I recall there was an election soon after where the democrats in fact got trounced by the republicans on the usual dem's not strong on national defense argument -- what would have happened if they all had voted against? Bad decision on Clinton's part, but we all make mistakes -- and you could argue the fact that with a competent President the country may have solved the situation without war.

I have also discounted to a certain degree Obama's speaking out against for a couple of reasons. Obama was not in the senate voting for the war -- he was on the sidelines making speeches. Once he got to the big game the records are identical. If he believed so passionately the war was wrong he should have voted against funding from the beginning. That would have taken moral courage -- and he likely would have my vote right now if he had. Also if he had been in the Senate where his voice would have actually counted, would he have voted the same way? Don't know.

Who can get us out of Iraq? I think they both can. I suspect Clinton is a little more pugnacious on that score which is fine by me.

I do feel Clinton is stronger on health care. Yes, her plan mandates coverage, but without a single payer system the only way to get universal coverage is to require people to have insurance. I also feel she is a liitle stronger on the economy as well. She just appears to have a better grasp on it that Obama.

After the debate last night I felt Clinton has my vote by a whisker. I wish we could have a Clinton/Obama ticket, than with 8 years of Clinton cleaning up Bush and getting us back on course, followed by 8 years of a slightly more experienced and tested Obama we would really be able to fundamentally change this country.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

david arkansas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:22:20 GMT

what has happened to msnbc, they too are now sounding and looking like fox,report the news and quit trying to tells how to vote. i use to like chris mathews but he has certainly changed in recent months!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Armando Santiago Muskegon, MI — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:22:29 GMT

How can I vote for a man who is so secretive with his very own name, to start with? What is wrong with his name- Barack Hussein Obama? It just strengtens my belief that he is really hiding something sinister. True enough, there is not much difference between the politics of Hllary Rodham Clinton and Barck Hussein Obama, but I feel that I know everything to know about Hillary Rodham Clinton...I can not say that for for Barack Hussein Obama. Can somebody tell me if hBarack Hussein Obama was ever a practicing Muslim? He is denyng that he is a Muslim now, but he never talks abput his basic religious beliefs in the past....and maybe he still has the same basic beliefs

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

kjb79--NY NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:22:36 GMT

Chuck, NY-This is my thinking. I thought Hillary won last night. Obama is a great speaker. He knows how to rally and move a crowd. But Hillary sweeps the floor with him during debates. I've watched them all year, and he doesn't stand out. He's come a long way, but he still has more to learn. Hillary has it. You could hear it in her answers. Her grasp on the issues is impeccable and I agree with her which is most important. I watch and wait for Obama to say something inspiring, but it doesn't come and I find that after Hillary speaks, I'm truly impressed. Maybe I sell her short because she is a woman-- I don't know. But I'm so happy and PROUD that for once I can look at all the candidates and the one who I feel is the most qualified to lead our country through the mess W caused is a woman. It's the bonus for me. The extra cherry on top. That's how I see it.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Philippa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:22:46 GMT

I feel change in the air.Obama for America!
Out with the old divisive politics embraced by the Clintons which results in gridlock in congress.In with Obama and the new politics of building bipartisan coalitions to get things done for the American people.
Mrs Clinton touts 35 questionable years of experience including her 16 years as Arkansas first lady and First lady of the Clinton era.What is 'experience'if you cannot get things done due to deep divisions which she fosters.
She is not electable in November as up to 47% of the country hate her.Her recent gutter politics on Obama will add to that percentage.

I hope more and more people see the light of day
Hillary's claim to "35 years of experience." Subtract her years spent as first lady of Arkansas and in the White House, and her time working as a lawyer in the Rose Law Firm and in other jobs. As Reason Magazine's Steve Chapman reported in November, Hillary Clinton has "just under eight years of experience in elective office -- one more than John Edwards and four fewer than Obama." And, to boot, Hillary the Feminist has her man to fight her battles.
Here's a great quote from tomorrow's NYTimes column by Gail Collins:

====

Hillary could start by purging her campaign of the lingering sense that the presidency is her due and anyone who stands in her way is a particularly mean chauvinist. You cannot run a campaign with the slogan: “Vote for Hillary — Think of All She’s Been Through.”

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:22:50 GMT

OBAMA SPONSORED LEGISLATION
Over 800 bills sponsored in Illinois
http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2007/07/29/us/politics/20070730_OBAMA_GRAPHIC.html

http://www.barackobama.com/factcheck/category/

LEARN & ISSUES
http://www.barackobama.com/index.php
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/
http://www.barackobama.com/speeches/index.php
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/economy/

http://obama.senate.gov/
http://obama.senate.gov/podcast/

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Debra from Camarillo California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:22:58 GMT

First, I don't think last night's debate with Wolf Blitzer trying to make Hillary look bad with the Iraq comment about her bein naive was appropriate. He is there to ask substantive questions on the issues, not make anybody look bad, but she handled it with her usual poise and grace. Hillary is the better candidate for the very reasons some of you have said she isn't. Yes, she doesn't get along with republicans in congress, and yes, she will have a good old time fighting them, and I say Hurray!!, Yes, she's a bulldog, good...we need one. We need somebody who can hit the ground running. Obama just doesn't have that expertise, sorry. And I worry that black America is voting for him JUST because he's black and are under some delusion that race and discrimation in this country will go away if we have a black president, that somehow their entire population will be lifted up out of the so called shadows of white America and will be re-born. I fear they have it wrong and will be desperatly disapointed when he is unable to deliver that. Please, really people at this point either one will suit me, because the one we have had for eight long and grueling upsetting years will be gone, and that's all that really matters. McCain will not win, sorry....we don't need a military president, his resume is more suited for the head of Homeland Security, not president. A double ticket? CLINTON/OBAMA? Now that would assuage some of our fears that we would have real change.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sidney P., Dallas, TX — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:23:06 GMT

O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma, O-ba-ma

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sean Olson, Crestline, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:24:17 GMT

One of the most interesting things about the poll numbers in the Republican race is what it reveals about the makeup of the Republican Party itself. It's been suggested by others that there are three key planks to the Republican platform which have accounted for their success in recent years: a strong national defense; conservative economic policies and less Federal regulation; and conservative social policies. Both Bushes, I and II, were perceived as aligning well with all three planks (the reality of these administrations is the subject of analysis for better minds).

Nevertheless, when you look at the current field (McCain, Romney, and Huckabee) you can see how each candidate represents one of these core values: McCain the hawk, Romney the successful manager, and Huckabee the evangelist. There is no “perfect” candidate. It’s tempting to infer from their poll numbers a kind of statistical distribution amongst the GOP, sorted out, based a prioritizing of these three values.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike Wood — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:24:22 GMT

Obama may win because the country has had enough of Republican "leadership" Clinton, the same. If everything was equal, I would not give either a chance because the people would not be willing to give either a minority or a woman the reigns.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

joseph malta Bethel CT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:25:23 GMT

After listening to their debate, I certainly agree that everyone must share in helping to correct health care costs. From my business, I am very much aware of the continued increases in profits they are achieving. Why are they never mentioned by Obama and Hillary to share in "helping" and why is it not questioned how can they keep achieving consisitent profit growth but health care costs continue to rise?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Armando Santiago Muskegon, MI — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:25:36 GMT

How can I vote for a man who is so secretive with his very own name, to start with? What is wrong with his name- Barack Hussein Obama? It just strengtens my belief that he is really hiding something sinister. True enough, there is not much difference between the politics of Hllary Rodham Clinton and Barck Hussein Obama, but I feel that I know everything to know about Hillary Rodham Clinton...I can not say that for Barack Hussein Obama. Can somebody tell me if Barack Hussein Obama was ever a practicing Muslim? He is denyng that he is a Muslim now, but he never talks about his basic religious beliefs in the past....and maybe he still has the same basic beliefs

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ken, San Diego, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:25:51 GMT

Both candidates were likeable and intelligent. Hillary Clinton as the edge with policy understanding and her ability to explain those policies (such as health care and the economy). Obama has the edge with the "calm", "nice", and "newness" factors. With that said, the knock on Hillary has always been her "likeability" -- most people (love her or hate her) agree that Hillary is smart. Because both candidates were so likeable, the overall edge, therefore has to go to Hillary. She showed her smarts and her likeability, which solidifies her base and gives the undecideds and the Edwards voters something to think about. If nothing else, Obama's momentum has been slowed down at the right time; right before Super Tuesday.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marbw — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:25:53 GMT

Environment---LCV(League of Conservation Voters)lifetime voting record scores for Democratic candidates:
Barack Obama is #1
BHO 96//DK 92//HRC 90//JRE 59
http://www.lcv.org/voterguide/

ETHICS ---TAKING BACK OUR GOVT SPEECH -June 22, 2007

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid988313356/bclid1037590295/bctid1016735906
article---http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/21/opinion/21mon2.html?_r=2&th&emc=th&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

Obama working with others/push lobbyist aside
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XLyQNJsCv0&eurl=http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/1/2/215018/3535

The Judgment to Lead 10/12/07
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PwgjYMw310U

HEALTHCARE
http://www.barackobama.com/issues/healthcare/

http://thinkonthesethings.wordpress.com/2007/11/27/barack-obamas-health-care-record-the-making-of-the-health-care-president/

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

S Baker, Sonoma California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:25:59 GMT

Heard them both. I'm voting for Clinton. Obama just misses the mark with me.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Armando Santiago Muskegon, MI — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:26:21 GMT

How can I vote for a man who is so secretive with his very own name, to start with? What is wrong with his name- Barack Hussein Obama? It just strengtens my belief that he is really hiding something sinister. True enough, there is not much difference between the politics of Hllary Rodham Clinton and Barack Hussein Obama, but I feel that I know everything to know about Hillary Rodham Clinton...I can not say that for Barack Hussein Obama. Can somebody tell me if Barack Hussein Obama was ever a practicing Muslim? He is denyng that he is a Muslim now, but he never talks about his basic religious beliefs in the past....and maybe he still has the same basic beliefs

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Christopher — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:26:53 GMT

Hey Chuck, I need for you to stop supporting Hillary so much. You are telling us on MSNBC that your family is in love with this woman, thus your judgement is flawed. I know you are a Hillary fan, but you will not be able to stop this straight talking express with all its wheels in tack.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Debra from Camarillo — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:26:54 GMT

People, please don't forget too, that Obama voted "present" in over 100 different legislative iniatives, and his power house of logic is he didn't vote for Iraq. I have real problems with somebody who doesn't have the stones to vote just because he was afraid to put his political career on the line. Hillary voted for what she thought at the time, along with many other honorable and intelligent democrats for Bush's war, not knowing how obessed this crazy president really was about committing all our resources to this insanity. She trusted her president like we all did, and have been horribly let down. So if all of you out there are really believing that Obama is a man of conviction and courage as I believe Hillary is a women of those same qualities, then why did he wimp out on over 100 important issues for the American people....

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Big Chip Sandoval,Il — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:27:00 GMT

I think Keith said about all that needed to be said, but think long and hard about this decision. Remember that since the 90's the resentment towards the clintons from republicans has only grown even to the point where the usually resonable Mccain is even on the attack. this tells us that the repulican war machine will come out in force against her and fair or not they will drag all of the scandals out of her closet. And if you think back you will remember that the first clinton administration was not just warm and fuzzy feelings all the time there was a lot of scandal not just for Bill but for Hillary as well

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

dc: Blacksburg, VA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:18 GMT

I think that Obama may represent a greater separation from the "business as Usual" DC mentality (although not the sweeping change that his campaign projects). However, this is a double-edged sword. While a departure from the status quo would be nice, it may hamper his ability to play ball with the lifers on the hill. In contrast, Clinton knows the game and has demonstrated an ability to play it. But is that what we want?
Ultimately, I think my support goes to Obama because he does not have the polarizing effect on non-supporters that Clinton does. Undecided republicans and fence-riding democrats seem to bristle at the Clinton name, whereas Obama is just harder for them to get charged up about. One thing is certain, the country does not need 4 more years of conservatism ala Huchabee or Romney.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Leatha R Cape Coral Florida — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:19 GMT

I think a lot of the younger people do not know how the economy was in the 90's. There was plenty of work here, overtime, if you wanted it. There was no housing slumps because of people having the money to buy things. I for one will vote for Hillary. She ahs the skills and knowledge to negociate with foreign countries, she knows the ins and outs of Washington. As someone else pointed out, we do not need a President in training at this point in time. The new president has to jump in and start 'Day 1' for all of our sakes. The debt we are in is unbelievable and should have never happened.

I think at a further place in time, or a 'Dream Ticket' would be great for Obahma. Right now this country can't afford anything less.

I'm sure many of you remember the Jack and Bobby Kennedy trisks, yet they weren't penalized. It was unfortunate for Bill Clinton, as he ran this government for all the people here. It's just a shame that some don't realize that this type of thing has happened through many years at the Whitehouse. Time to move on.

Again, my vote is for Hillary. The best choice for the very uphill battles that this country faces today.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

max — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:19 GMT

interesting that MSNBC has obama "winning" the debate featured under first read on home page now when it is actually the 7th item in first read

Note CNN undecided voter pool said Clinton won as did several CNN commentators. Why is MSNBC/Firstread such a hack for Obama?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

fred norton bixby oklahoma 74008 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:20 GMT

hillary clinton is the best qualified canidant of all she will get things done women are strong willed and spirited they have a direction no one changes there minds

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

bob branch — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:44 GMT

Sen. Clinton, constantly brags about her so-called 35 years experience, and that experience a major reason that she should be President. My question is a simple one. After 35 years, WHERE'S THE BEEF I SEE LITTLE SUCCESS FOR 35 YEARS OF BEING THERE.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Meghan, Lakeland, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:50 GMT

Hillary has been too divisive, manipulative, and dishonest. Furthermore, there are way too many skeletons in her closet and too many center-leaning Republicans would be motivated just to ensure she did not become President. We cannot underestimate the power of that.
Also, in regards to her experience argument. I think it is tired, and I think that being President in 2009 will come with entirely new complexities and difficulties that no previous Presidency can prepare a person for.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Michael — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:50 GMT

It really seems like MSNBC is starting to look like the next FOX news channel.... Which is a very big shame.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ed Maslak Holland, Ohio — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:28:57 GMT

From what I saw at the debates, the Democratic party was showing you the next President and VP... what order they will be in, who knows.

There really isn't that much difference between the two, except that Hillary is the tougher one.

If I had to choose between them to back me in a street fight, I would want Hillary on my side. Why?? Experience and ability to land a good one.

That's tall talk from Obama that he will get it right from day 1... I remember a smug little "W" saying the same thing.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

BK — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:29:13 GMT

I'm surprised you think Obama may have 'won' the debate, simply because he said (paraphrase here) I've been right about Iraq all along and that is reason enough to vote for me. Clinton's answers were consistently substantive and reflected a thorough understanding of the issues at a very deep level. I was on the fence before viewing this debate, but today am convinced that Clinton is the better choice (although Obama will be a very strong candidate in the future).

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

David, Wichita Falls — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:35:25 GMT

To me I think Hillary will make a far better president than Mr. Obama. Though he is saavy and has style he shoves how Hillary voted on most issues where he didn't vote at all. A president can not just sit around and sweep things under the rug and not take a stance on issues as Obama has done. Do we really need another Bush in office who can't make up his mind except when it benfits him. I think thats what we will end up with if Obama is elected President. As for the infidelities of Clinton's husband we need to just let it go. Look what President Clinton did for the country and economy while he was in office. As Hillary said if took a Clinton to clean up the first Bush's mistakes and will take a Clinton to really clean up the second ones mistakes.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Saul G., Los Angeles — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:35:56 GMT

The clear choice for the presidency is of course Hillary Clinton. I'm not knocking Obama, he is a great politician that makes us all feel good about our Democratic Party, but it's going to take more than just "feeling good" about a candidate to get the job done. Hillary was in the White House for 8 years alongside her husband Bill. As I recall, those were some of the greatest years our country went through in recent history. Sure Bill had "PERSONAL PROBLEMS" to contend with, but the fact is that both of them lead this country to prosperity and I believe Hillary will once again lift America to the position it once held. The "backbone" of every great man is the woman who stands behind and supports him. Now we'll have that "backbone" representing us.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Delia, Washington, DC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:36:15 GMT

Chuck if America truly wants to show the world that it has changed then Obama has to be the next president of the U.S. I'm a 27 yr old black women and initially I was voting for Hillary. However, after last nights debate, I realized that Hillary does not represent change. I also realized that her vote on Iraq shows her lack of vision and inability to make tough decisions. Obama in 08 will prove to the world that "we the people" run the government and not the bigwigs on capital hill. It will also show the world that we are behind someone who is for world peace and diplomacy.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

annio, WA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:37:37 GMT

Clinton CLEARLY won the debate. She has the subtance and gravitas AND good judgement.

What kind of judgement does Obama have in becoming a SMOKER in this day and age??

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

HL, Boston, MA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:37:44 GMT

In my opionion, Hilary has been portrayed by the Obama camp and the media as so Bush Lite, b/c of her early decision on Iraq. The reality is: she and Obama both now oppose the war and on eveyr other equally importnat issue (healthcare, economy, etc), there are very little differences. In short, both are moderate Democrats that would have general appeal.

On the other hand, Hilary is portayed by the Republicans and the media as so left liberal (in a negative sense) and the would engender such anti-liberal establishment that republicans would come out and vote not for their party's nominee but vote against her. Aganin the reality check is: she is so moderate that she has some of the ultra left wing upset at her for voting for Iraq early on. She is the epitome of being a centrist, which one would rationally think make her appealing in the gernal election.

My question is, how many Obama supporters out there are deciding based on the reality of Hilary is vs how she has been portrayed by the media/republicans/Obama campaign? I feel for Hilary becuase as a centrist and as a woman candidate, she has such a much higher than normal bar to surpass. She's had that all her life, and she has worked hard to persevere and change these false perceptions. I only hope those in the Democratic party will clearly see and respect her for she is and can potentially be - a uniter and an ultra-competent president who wil cahnge history and alter the course of our country only for the better

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

SULAIMAN OKAI , CHICAGO IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:37:45 GMT

MSNBC HAS BECOME A DISAPPOINTMENT IN OBJECTIVITY. I WOULD HOPE THEY COME OUT OF THE CLOSET AND TELL THE WORLD, THEY SUPPORT OBAMA IN THIS EXERCISE. I HAVE ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST TEACHER. BOTH CANDIDATES CAN DO THE JOB BUT HILARY NEEDS LESS TRAINING THAN OBAMA.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

cindy andreucc, phenix city, al — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:37:50 GMT

As a woman, I wouldl love to see a woman in the seat for change, but that being said......I won't vote for Clinton just because she is a woman. I would vote for her because I think she is strong and can handle what is thrown at her without falling apart. I like Obama, BUT I don't think he has enough experience to lead this country and I really don't want him depending on everyone else to make the decisions that we are counting on him to make. I am white woman originating from Chicago, IL. I never saw predjudice until I moved to Florida in the early 60's. That's when my father was beaten because I said I met and played with a little black girl in Dunnellon. I never ever forgot that. There is no place in my heart or my space for that stuff. I have no problem having a black president or even a green or yellow president. Right now however, if I had to vote today, I would vote for Hillary Clinton. I think she can take us where we need to go, I also think having Bill as an advisor doesn't hurt. I just can't vote for Obama until I feel he can, on his own, take this country to the next level. He doesn't have ANY experience in politics and that is NOT GOOD. Mr. Obama, come back for the next election and you are in, but not now, not like this.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

David Miller, Brush Prairie, WA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:37:56 GMT

Obama is superior to Clinton in several respects. (1)Integrity. The Clintons have none.(2) Opposing the Iraq war from the start.(3)20 years of Bush-Clinton is enough. We don't need presidential dynasties or a Billiary co-presidency.(4)Hillary is divisive and polarizing. Independants will easily vote for Obama, but definitely NOT Hillary. The base for Hillary seems to be women desperate for any woman in the White House. Thinking voters see Obama superior on every issue.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

DJ, Taylorville, IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:37:59 GMT

Obama is a breath of fresh air. That much is obvious. However, the comment about Hillary knowing how to twist an arm in DC is huge! It's not about whether they will willingly cooperate with her as president. It's about whether they'll want to take her and Bill on in a political conversation. The many comments about Obama are right on track. We can't afford to have a "President in training" at this stage of our history. I think the nomination won't be as close as some think. Get used to saying President Clinton again. Obama's time is coming and it's coming very soon!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

No experience necessary for a State job — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:07 GMT

Are we voting for State Senator or President of the United States. If it's State Senator I'm going with the Chicago community activist since he knows more about what is going on in that community and obviously doesn't have to know anything about world affairs.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Angela Pollock — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:12 GMT

For those people who continually try to associate Bill Clinton's liasons with Hillary Clinton's lack of judgement for staying with him, and or "putting up" with him...I commened Hillary for her diplomacy, tact, and the ability to make it through a difficult situation. Many women would have left him, but there is more to a marriage tham that. Her vows, as with any contract or negotiation requires give and take from both parties. Obviously Hillary Clinton has the judicious ability to do just that, and to see a contract as significant and binding.
Asfor her politics, she is a proven professional with many more years of experience than Obama. I do not believe that the office of the president should be an "on the job training" site. Regardless of sex or race, we should put away all bigotry and petty discriminations and vote for the best most qualified candidate. I saw Hillary and spoke to her in Atlanta, Georgia...and she has my vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Pam Phillips — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:17 GMT

Hands down, Mr. Obama. He is very professional and has the country's best interests at heart. He is intelligent, a great orator and reminds me alot of President Kennedy. I am very discouraged that Ms. Clinton has decided to run a rather harassment type of debate with Mr. Obama and Mr. Obama is simply trying to stick with the issues, and I must say despite the obstacles Mr. Obama has remained calm, cool and collected. I am also very disappointed at the tone of some of former President Clinton's bashes on Mr. Obama -- I was really surprised at this and that has also swayed my vote for President.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

M, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:22 GMT

Hillary is not more intelligent policy wise. She throws out a lot of ridiculous jargon and talks at length until people no longer know what she is saying--that is the rhetoric of opaque, misguiding politics.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Monty Davis, Canton GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:36 GMT

Last night I felt Obama really needed to come out hitting on all cylinders and he did. I am concerend that some undecided voters may not have completely heard his message because he was a little too nice and never went for a knock out punch even though there were plenty of opportunities.

A lot of people are giving Hillary kudos on her health plan but she has yet to address one key thing, how she would enforce a mandated health care program. I think universal health care is a great idea but it is probably one of the more complicated plans to conquer. The reality is we are more likely to get afforadable health care by driving down cost before we are able to ensure every american can be covered.

Finally I am inspired by how Obama has united the american people. Not only has he done that, he has energized the american people unlike any president in my generation (I'm 33 so too young to know about the Regan era) I think it's time to step back and look at the big picture and that's he is what this country needs. Bill Clinton began dividing the nation and George Bush continued that trend and if Hillary is the democratic nominee that wedge will only become bigger as it will be the republicans vs the Clintons round II. We don't need a Clinton to clean up this mess, we need an Obama to challenge the mindset that continues to keep this great nation divided. I don't agree with all his positions (as with any canidate) but two things he does that makes me vote for him is 1) he wants a transparent government and 2) he is a uniter and not a divider. Those two are a rock solid foundation for success as President of the United States.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Darlene — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:38 GMT

Hillary will be our next president. She is far and away the best when it comes to leading us as president of the United States. We have all seen in the last 8 years what lack of leadership, experience and knowledge can do to a country. The moral issues of the Clintons administration has been dealt with as a family - lets leave further judgment on that issue to the only worthy judge of them all - Lord Jesus. As far as the issues at hand with this county - we simply must vote with intelligence - our mind. The issues I have heard, the stragedies, the plan for this country that Hillary Clinton has - will lead our country back to a country we can be proud of, an economy we can uphold and a safe place to call home...Obama is a good person, we have drawn that conclusion. I think in years to come he may be ready for presidency, but as of now - in the place we find our country - there is no better person to lead us through the valley and onto the other side than a person who has proved she can do just that in front of all the eyes of American - Hillary Clinton!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sandy Walsh — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:47 GMT

Chuck, my responses to your question:

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?
Hillary has far more expertise. She speaks in specific facts, whereas Obama tends to talk in generalities. She knows world leaders, can work with congress. She is especially skilled at creating coalitions of people to get legislation passed.
2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country? She has BOTH experience and judgement. I wish she had pointed out in the debate, as she had before, that although Obama opposed the war in 2002, once he got to the Senate he voted a number of times for funding the war. Neither of them is completely "pure" on this. Hillary has better expertise to use coaltions to bring peace and other change.
3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November? Because we need a candidate who has the facts and figures to argue with the Republicans, and can give specifics on change. Obama is vulnerable on inexperience, on his Senate votes to fund the war, on his "present" votes in the Ill. legislature, on his previous association with a slum landlord, etc. Tue, Hillary also has her vulnerabilities. But she is a seasoned politician who can debate the Republicans and run the White House.

My ideal: A Clinton-Obama for '08 and to run for re-election in '12. Then Obama to run for Prez '16.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

hknight — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:38:49 GMT

Hey guys, Hiliary performed very well last night. It was refreshing to see her smile and speak so eloquently about policy for a change. She can be a very likeable person if she didn't turn into some cackling-thinks-she-know-it-all that repulses over half the general electorate. But, on the other hand, OBAMA WAS TRULY PRESIDENTIAL in his tone, his mannerism. He was very knowledgeable and had a commanding presence on that stage with just the two of them. You may not like his name or his skin color, but his heart is genuine and he comes over as an intelligent, charismatic and very convincing figure. He stood up strong against the former President last week (South Carolina victory was not all about race) and treated the former first lady with gentleman-like respect last night. He showed that their difference is not personal or sexist but rather a difference in political style and leadership. He will govern accordingly: Tough when necessary but well-disciplined and thoughtful. A man for change not in a couple of years, but for the "fierce urgency of now," America.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom, Gig Harbor, WA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:06 GMT

BATTLE of the SUPER LIBERALS: Neither Hillary or Barack gives any specifics about dealing with illegal aliens or long-term solutions to our trade imbalance with China. They both call Illegal Aliens "undocumented workers" which is the liberal way of looking at it. I believe that either one of them will get their asses kicked in debates against Romney or McCain on these issues. And when will Hillary give us an honest answer about her continued support for the Iraq war? She has voted to continue funding the Iraq war, and she voted to name Iran's Private Guard a "terrorist organization" which gives Bush the authority to attack them. She is a bold-face liar and we cannot trust her to be president.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

David Firnhaber, Pleasantville, New York — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:09 GMT

I thought that it was fairly even in that both candidates proved that they are capable of thinking and leading. Hillary did have a couple of problems clearly explaining her position on her earlier Iraq votes, and Obama is not as thorough on his universal health care plan as he should be. But it was delightful that both of them were relatively cordial and stuck to issues rather than name-calling or finger-pointing.

Wolf and his fellow journalists were shameful. They were deliberately trying to bait both candidates and to start some kind of personal fight. I find the journalists covering much of the political news to be petty and not very intelligent with their questions.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

joe Mc — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:09 GMT

I think Hillary Clinton has the the qualities to get the job done.Obama 1s anexcellent choiceand we democrats are very fortunate to have the best of both worlds ,so to speak.
However, being a Marine I want a president that has the experiece.
Obama is a fine cadidate for the next election.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

johnny — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:21 GMT

it was no contest at all. clinton won. and I will never vote for obama. if he wins the right to run, I will vote for a republican with a sack over my head. some people talk trash about clinton but they can't tell you why they do this. some people blame her for keeping a vow she made to god when she married. for better or worse. obama needs help and clinton will get him help when she's elected.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Dr. F Alaska — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:26 GMT

This question does not need to be asked. Senator Clinton won this debate, just like she has won every other debate to date. What Obama needs to accept that he will never be something he is not. Obama's delussional ideations is not a characteristic Americans want in the White House.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

thewolf1 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:35 GMT

In response to Chuck, NY:

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?

Senator Obama's oratorical skills, his graceful demeanor, and his life story provide him an initial edge in attracting support from people across the political spectrum in this country and around the world. This perception of the person presenting ideas is, after the past seven years, of more importance at present than the ideas in and of themselves.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?

Senator Obama has built a successful nationwide political campaign based on his ability to appeal to Americans of diverse circumstances, and to lead them in achieving concrete political goals through superior organization as well as personal inspiration. This is the heart of presidential leadership.

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?

Senator Obama has evinced a mindset that contrasts markedly with that of his Democratic opponents in the primaries, and will become more abundantly clear in the general election. On Iraq, rather than itemize the existing premises for invasion to determine whether their sheer number justified a decision to proceed, he challenged the basic legitimacy of each premise, and accurately predicted what could happen should those premises prove unfounded. On health care, he again has challenged the premise that universal is synonymous with mandatory, and predicted that such a premise, were it adopted, would prove so unpopular as to doom the enterprise once again. Senator Obama's refusal to rest his decisions about the future on adherence to political ideology or the conventional wisdom, and to challenge Americans to think for themselves in finding the path out of foreign policy disaster and partisan gridlock, will find support among a new majority of informed, practical and patriotic voters.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

M Trought, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:42 GMT

The responses tot he debate clearly shows a divided nation and the only subtle issue is race, race and more race. If Obama was fully white he would have declared a hands down winner infact Hilary would not have ran. But she knows that race is a very important factor in this election and she is banking on the racist to come out and ensure Obama does not get the vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Camilo, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:42 GMT

This is to Chuck in NY:

This is a reply to Chuck in New York. I am a 2nd Generation Mexican American and consider myself not part of a minority group. I support Barack Obama.

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?

I believe Barack Obama is the candidate who has a plan, and the courage to stick with it but the wisdom to listen to his Advisors and the American people. He won't turn a deaf ear as the current Administration has. In addition, he will work with all Legislators regardless of party affiliation without the vilification of those who happen to identify as other political parties. He knows that in order to bring the troops home, to eliminate our dependency on foreign oil, to help the middle class, you need someone who can speak in tone and in action to those at the other end of the aisle. Never before (in my lifetime, I'm 40) has there been a candidate with these skills.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?

He has displayed wise judgment on Iraq, he has a record (in Illinois and the U.S. Senate) of working in a conciliatory way with those on the other end of political aisle to achieve legislation that benefit Americans. I don't feel the politics of the other candidate has allowed her to achieve this on a consistent basis. The Washington establishment is in no hurry to work with her as much as they look forward to working against her.

3)Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?

With Barack Obama versus any of the leading GOP Candidates, we have a clear difference. Especially if Hillary Clinton is the candidate, there is not enough of a significant difference on policies and votes and once again, Americans will feel they do not really have a choice. With Obama as the candidate, people will have a choice of the politics of the past, or a bold new vision for the future. In addition, Bill and Hillary Clinton energize the GOP base. They will come out in droves to vote against her and cost Democrats the election.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Clay, Tyler, TX — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:46 GMT

Before we all get full of ourselves with Obama, look up some important information on him. Where was he born? Is he a natural born American citizen? Why did he not put his hand over his heart in the lovely pic circling the country with the American flag in the background? Do we want to vote for him just because he is a man and we don't think a woman can run this country? Why should Sen. Clinton be responsible for her husband's indescretions? It doesn't show lack of judgement for her to stand by her husband, it shows she has courage to face the nation during those times and she is still facing them now. If the boat was turned around and the shoe was on the other foot, we would not be condemning a man near as much as we are her because she is a woman and she is constantly having to defend herself on these stupid issues instead of the issues at hand. A true politician is going to change their mind on any issue and say what they think the public they are talking to at the time to benefit that group of people. But as human nature, just because you were for something 4-5 years ago, doesn't mean you have to be for it now. When she voted along side President Bush for the war in Iraq, we had to show a solidarity as a country at that time, both Democrats and Republicans as to not show our weaknesses to the enemy. But as human nature comes out, we have the right to change our minds, otherwise why do you think there is a divorce rate? Stupid analogy, but the same thing. We are fighting a war that maybe, just maybe, we should not be fighting right now. Bring our troops home and let them help protect our borders here at home and try to keep us safe here and let the others fend for themselves, since it seems at times they don't want us there. That is just my personal opinion.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Caroljoy Thompson — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:39:51 GMT

If Hillary really wants to get elected she should offer to take no pay and no retirement benefits. Instead of being a double dipper she could allocate those funds to be put into small buisnesses or any other worthy causes. The working class would really admire her for this.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike, Altoona, PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:05 GMT

Chuck, Last nite's debate was a tie. Both candidates are very bright people. The historical ticket is without a doubt Hillary for Pres and Barack for VP. My reason for that order is that after the next two 4-year Clinton Democratic administrations, Obama will be the next preident with all the experience that his critics now say he lacks. The other way around is harder to envision.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lynette, MN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:19 GMT

I'm voting for Barack Obama because he will rise above the oppressive smallness that has become American politics in Bush and Clinton administrations. He will reach across party lines to reform health care, the economy, immigration and taxes. He will raise our stature in the world so that we can begin to repair the damage done and end the war honorably. Together we will make our lives and our environment greener. The future will be a strong America at home and in the world. Believe it. Join us.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Michael; Dade City, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:25 GMT

As a moderate Republican, I was given the book "Audicity of Hope" as a jab by a relative. I read it and he actually made sense! He is smart, articulate and has a commanding presence. I believe the Democratic Candidate will win in November and Clinton's "Stand by Your Man" and Bills's endorsement will not play well with a lot of voters. Have never voted Democratic before, but if it is Obama, he will get my vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Art, Philadelphia, PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:43 GMT

I live in Pennsylvania, so "Super Tuesday" doesn't apply to me. (Our primary is one of the last state primaries.) As a registered Democrat, I will probably vote for Obama; I just don't trust Hillary. However, I feel that McCain and/or Romney would be a much better choice for President. McCain is a centrist; this country needs a centrist to repair the idological rift between the far left (Obama and Clinton) and the far right (Bush). Romney has real experience repairing fiscal issues. Therefore, in the general election, I will be voting for the Republican candidate unless the winner of the Clinton/Obama race can prove to me that he/she is a centrist.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Cheryl Kroemer, Syracuse, Indiana — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:43 GMT

I just want to say I am voting democratic, and probably for Obama, because he represents change, he's smart, and for what it's worth, I believe he is a true thinker and leader. What our country and the next president need to do is quit throwing money at problems...our nation is broke. We need leadership at the top so we can reclaim our nation in the world. We just can't keep borrowing money from nations, keep the draft away, wearing out our troops, throw money we don't have at an economic 'solution' (HA!) and then think we are still the number one country in the world. Thank you for this forum.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

nadeem, Canada — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:45 GMT

What is the Kazakistan and Clinton story? Also what is this about Clinton saying something negative about Ted Kennedy? Is there an authentic source?

I am amazed how the Iraq question has taken center stage again after the debate last night. Not good ground for Clinton. I suspect this is what lost her Iowa - her position on the war. I was also surprised she refused to set a date certain for withdrawl. That could hurt her.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Pat Nicolosi, Somers, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:40:53 GMT

I find it puzzling that so many people are enamored by Mr. Obama's charisma. I am a Hillary supporter who's first time in the election booth chose JFK. Am I the only person who has noticed that Mr. Obama has a very condescending demeanor towards Ms. Clinton. Watching him last night he reminded me of a rich, well educated white boy, very smart, attended the best schools and, therefore, has a divine right to be our leader. As a New Yorker who spent much of my life living and working in Europe, I found him to be no better than any other man who consistenly tells us woman that they know best.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Adam, Sacramento — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:41:09 GMT

Fair Questions Chuck

1) Why do you see your candidate being better suited to be President if elected?

Both candidates certainly have the potential to be competent presidents. However does anyone believe clinton has the potential to be a great president. Is she a president that can call for a moonshot and inspire a nation around that goal? I don't think she is and in my mind that makes obama more suited as he has a much bigger upside. No big proposal happens without a president that can mobilize public opinion.

2) What makes you think your candidate has what it takes to successfully lead our country?

To hear washington insiders tell it it takes decades in washington to be a good president. I've always been a believer that that isn't true. In life there are natural leaders, people who inspire others to follow them. Obama clearly exhibits leadership qualities. Clinton on the other hand is the consumate wonk. You have confidence she knows every little detail and you'ld certainly consult her opinion on items but at least for me I don't find her inspiring. It's subjective but the fact is both are clearly smart enough for the job.

Finally Obama has taken a political stand that could have killed his career when he spoke out against the war when it had 70% approval. McCain has taken similar straight talk stands on immigration etc...I don't ever remember Clinton taking such a risk. I want a president I know will do what they think not what a poll says.

3) Why do you think your candidate can beat the GOP nominee in November?

Against McCain I think Obama is a clear choice. As obama noted last night Hillary's war position is a huge liability against McCain. She's not going to out hawk a guy tortured at the hanoi hilton. Her name would need to be reagan to do that.

Both her and mccain are long time washington insiders. However McCain has the maverick tag. In a change election running an outsider strikes me as the right decision.

It's the economy - Clinton used her senate experience to groom herself as a hawk not a domestic issues maven. Obama as community organizer etc just seems more in touch with working america. That was always going to be an obama strongsuit.

In short my reasons are;

I'ld rather run an outsider(Obama) vs an insider(McCain).

I'ld rather run someone who opposed the war to end the war.

You can't out hawk mccain

Great things happen when a nation works together.

I'ld rather run a new generation vs an establishment generation.

Obama can inspire making his potential greater than clintons.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Beck, Houston, TX — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:41:13 GMT

I personally don't see any evidence showing that a Democrat is going to become the next President. Obama clearly is winning out over Hillary, but the problem of electibility is still in question. If Hillary takes the nomination, then I see absolutely zero doubt that the Republicans will continue to lead in the administration, which personally with the harmfully expensive proposals the Democrats are pushing, with my lower middle class standing I am fully going to support. I'm not sure that either candidate will be able to win against the Republicans, Hillary has the highest negativity rating of any candidate in history, and with Bill keeping so much of himself in the race, people are slowly beginning to remember all of the harm that he caused while he was in office, and many of us would rather see Bush even stay in office than Clinton, whose proposals took the giant economic boost caused by the technology boom and tore that boost apart, causing sharp declines over the next few years following into Bush's first term, simultaneously creating a bad name for himself through the mass pardonings of criminals with financial ties to his family and the real estate scams.
That said, Obama doesn't have the scandals and long list of failed or harmful policies that both Hillary and Bill do, but while gaining support among Democrats he is failing to secure the needed Republican and moderate voters. Obama stands the greatest chance, but while not hated, and in fact admired by many on both sides, fear of an economic downfall caused by an attack on big business which comes with a Democrat in office may take away his chances. With the current economic state, people are beginning to realize that the middle class can't survive while paying for mandatory assistance programs and increased taxes, that the only way to boost the economy is through the Republican ideal of supporting business growth to increase the job market. That one point may very well be what secures the office for the Republicans, as the thought of a decreases job market through over-taxation and a lower value of the dollar through increased consumer costs caused by raised taxation levels and assistance programs will cause many to turn to them. Thoughts of a higher percentage of jobless and poor have already caused many undecideds to pull to the right.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

AM. New York, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:41:22 GMT

If Obama had been in the Senate during the Iraq vote, he probably would not have shown up to vote. He doesn't like to take positions on anything that might not be politically good for him.

Hillary is the one I am voting for. Her intelligence and understanding of the issues is amazing! She inspires me!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

KJ, Raleigh NC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:41:22 GMT

I think both candidates are very smart and want to do the best for our country.

However after much thought, my first option having been Edwards, I will now vote for Obama. He may be new and inexperienced, but right now that may be just what this country needs. Someone who is still fresh, not tainted by lobbyists, and who has new ideas. I believe he is sincere and more forthright than most politicians.

But the bottom line is I will vote for whoever wins the Democratic ballot because we need the Republicans out of there.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

ss27 Philadelphia PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:41:35 GMT

Differentiating on Iraq is a losing issue as the country has moved on and it is accepted that either candidate will move to end the war if elected.

Obama's momentum ended last night.
Mike, Atlanta, GA (Sent Friday, February 01, 2008 9:49 AM)

Mike:

You miss the point. This was an argument about JUDGEMENT, and who will not just be ready to lead on day one but also RIGHT on day one.

Obama won that argument by a mile, and I suspect helped his momentum going into Super Tuesday.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

L. French — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:41:47 GMT

If, you watched the debate one young lady made her pointed question so clear. This will be her first election that she won't have to vote a Clinton or a Bush into office. I loved Bill but I won't vote for Hillary. If's it not Obama I will vote for a republican.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

bil.podoll — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:23 GMT

why is it we as AMERICANS can not get any good canidate for president? DEM or GOP

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Chuck Sines, East Liverpool, Ohio — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:27 GMT

I like Obama but I am not sure he can take the heat of the republican dirty tricks squad this fall. i.e. Rove and his cronies. Clinton has been there, done that. Their policies are basically the same. Obama believes that he will be able to form a consensus with the republicans for change. Just like peace in the middle east it's a pipe dream. Democrats will get what they will fight tooth and nail for. Republicans aren't going to go into the quiet good night. When they put on the gloves I'll take Killary(not a typo) ,TKO in the last round.

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Bonnie — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:31 GMT

Obama really got in some strong points on electability. Hillary's position on Iraq is wobbly and incoherent. Blaming Bush for her own errors on the issue is evasive and plays to the worst Clinton caricature of her legendary deceptiveness and even evokes memories of John Kerry in his debates against Bush. Let us not traverse that road again. Iraq will be an issue again in the general election and we need a candidate that can hold their own on this matter. Hillary's response to the 30 years of Bush/Clinton was both unanswerable and unconvincing. The way she has put her husband out on the front lines during this campaign has driven home the idea that this is shaping up to be a third term for the Clintons, which is simply not "change" by any stretch of the imagination.

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Greg, Des Moines, Iowa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:39 GMT

I caucused in Iowa for John Edwards. I clearly thought Clinton won the debate. Anyone who thinks different must be deaf, dumb and blind. She was much more polished, informed and thoughtful about her message. i thought Obama stumbled his way many times through his answers. His thought process was not clear.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

steve buckley, petaluma, ca — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:41 GMT

Its' clear to me that if you want to take the risk of losing the presidency again you should vote for Hillary. If you want to take back our country after seven years of screw ups,vote for Obama. If you really want to take back our country work to elect a total of 60 Senators.

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Ron Jeffers, Arizona Independent — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:44 GMT

Do you Democrats want to get the Independent vote in November? If you do, then there is only one choice in your primary elections. I would estimate that Obama would likely get anywhere from 40 to 70 percent of our vote and Clinton would garner no more than 20 percent. Choose wisely.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Kelly, NJ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:42:51 GMT

The problem with Obama's candidacy being a movement is that a movement is an emotional appeals that lasts along as the breeze of emotion is blowing your way. His main appeal of inspiration and freshness is susceptible to crashing as soon as emotions turn on an issue, which can happen at any moment. We've seen that constantly. Obama is inspiring and certainly calls forth warm, fuzzy feelings that I think are great. But, when it come to a President, I want someone who can roll their sleeves up and understand the nuances of our country's problems and solve them. Shall we recall the 2000 election and how did Bush win? He was a Washington outsider that we knew little about, he claimed to be a "uniter" and compassionate conservative who was going to bring the country together, his lack of experience was going to be addressed by having "good people around him" (which got us Cheney and Rumsfeld) and everyone liked him and wanted to have a beer with him. Well, he obviously turned out to be polarizing and incompetent. Why at this important juncture go with another unknown quantity? In my mind, the Presidency is not a personality contest, its a - who-is-more-competent-to-get-things-done-contest.

All the anti-Clinton rhetoric comes down to two issues: 1) her husband's affairs; and 2) this divisiveness issue. The first is a ridiculous basis not to vote for Hillary period. He had affairs and she should be punished? Please. The issue of divisiveness is a propaganda device. If you look at the head to head polls, she is polling no different than Obama as against the Republicans. And, she has the know-how to navigate and collect the necessary electoral votes to win the General. The conservative wing of the Republican party will not come out to vote for McCain, whether his rival is Obama or Clinton. In fact, James Dobson is talking about starting their own 3rd party conservative candidate if McCain wins. All of this "Clinton can't win" is media-created hype. And, unfortunately, we don't know how Obama will hold up with all the General Election scrutiny - he's still learning all this politic-gaming and right now, we don't have time for a learning curve.

Further, since Hillary has been in the Senate, she has harnessed bi-partisan support and worked across the aisle on many issues. Check out her legislative history - its immense and has numerous bi-partisan bills and efforts. Democratic and Republican Senators alike say that she is hard working, dedicated, and deserving of respect. Considering the uphill battle she had to prove herself when she started, I say that praise is well-deserved. She is not in this partisan-ideological box that everyone wants to put her in. In short, I think Obama is a great prospect for this Country in the future. Right here, right now with what this country faces, I want Hillary to get it done.

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Jeff — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:10 GMT

As a commited Republican for twenty years myself and 5 other friends voted in the Florida primary this last Tuesday, all for McCain. We only voted this way because he was the only candidate with 30 years of political experience. What may shock you though is all of us intend to vote for Obama if he makes the ticket. We want to send a message to our party to right the ship. Frankly it's time to shake up the system and we feel Obama is the only candidate capable of that. On the other hand if Mrs. Clinton is the choice of the Democratic Party we have no choice but to vote for McCain. As the country deserves better than someone being given a shot at the Presidency mostly due to her willingness to keep her mouth shut while her husband lied to not only her but the entire nation.By the way we are all 40-46 year old white males,the unknown factor in this years election

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Nicole, Grants Pass, OR — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:29 GMT

I would hope people choose a president who will understand the economy, fix our reputation with other world leaders, and stand up to the "old school" of politics. Hillary is intelligent and experienced but something in her personality leaves one feeling uneasy. I have decided to vote for Obama. I want something new and bold. I am tired of the Clinton/Bush dynasty that has ruled us for so long. Obama can defeat McCain (who is just a carbon copy of the current president).

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Don't count the votes yet — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:33 GMT

For everyone who is positive that Hillary can’t win because she energizes the republicans and that McCain will destroy her in a landslide if he is the nominee, I ask if anyone saw Ann Coulter on Hannity last nite saying that if McCain won the nomination she would not only vote for Hillary, but CAMPAIGN for her???!!!
For once, she was not being sarcastic or joking. She honestly hates John McCain more than she hates Hillary!
She said Hillary was better on the war, better on taxes and even better on immigration.
It was an amazing thing to watch. She went on for about 5 minutes w/o stop. Alan Colmes just sat w/ his feet up, smiling.
Considering her feelings are apparently mirrored by all the hard right wing nuts w/ big microphones, such as Rush and Mark Levin, if I were a republican, I wouldn't be so absolutely smug about believing that McCain is the sure republican to beat Hillary.
While most hard right republicans probably won't actually vote for Hillary, it appears that they just might stay home and not vote at all.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Clay, Tyler, TX — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:41 GMT

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Delia, Washington DC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:42 GMT

ARMANDO:

Your type of thinking perputates racism and division in our country. Obama's name has nothing to do with his ability to run the country. Additionally, to me it represents change, tolerance, and freedom. Let's move beyond racism and fear of individuals that are different. Isn't that what America is all about?

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Gail Nelson — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:43 GMT

Re: Obama easy time talking, Hillary has to re-explain... is BS. If Hillary was asked to answer questions first, Obama would have to re-explain. Hillary answered all questions and stayed on topic without letting more questions distract her and is able to get to the point in detail. Obama can talk the retoric, Hillary knows best, on how it works to get action in the Capitol for the people in America!
Obama is Oprah's political Dr. Phil ....oh please, next he'll have his own talk show.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Robert , Ridley Park,Pa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:43:44 GMT

You are all a bunch of sheep...if Obama is elected, that would make us an obama-nation...he's a SOCIALIST PEOPLE..WAKE UP

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susan, charlotte nc — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:44:38 GMT

i am a 33 year old white female who is voting for obama.
I believe we need a change , we need motivation.
Obama offers that like no other politician.
I am voting for him because of his background, his ethics. He is not afraid to admit his mistakes and move on. He did not grow up with the silver spoon in his mouth...I believe republicans would be more willing to support his healthcare reform... Most things start in smaller steps. I believe that while
Clinton will divide the country Obama has what it takes to bring it together. He has showed genuine warmth and directness.... Somepeople argument is that he has not been in washington long enough....
Change is needed to improve.. to grow....
Our country needs that.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jason, St Louis, MO — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:44:51 GMT

This is all very predictable. Those who like Obama thought he won (by far), those who like Clinton thought she won (by far), and independents were split. One focus group broke for Clinton, one for Obama. Saying Obama won because of Iraq means he won because Blitzer asked a lot about Iraq. Their positions have been etched in stone for months now, so no news there at all. Again, very predictable. If you are a one issue pony, on Iraq, you like Obama, if you think the world and issues are more complex than one issue, you may have liked Clinton, or you may still have liked Obama, depending on your bias and/or how you feel about the issues. But before everyone says Obama won because Blitzer kept asking about Iraq over and over again, I would suggest that in her response Clinton very carefully pointed out she has the foreign policy credentials to match McCain, no one can accuse her of being soft, and with McCain saying she wants to surrender, and she is the most moderate of the Dems on Iraq, what will the Repubs do with Obama in the fall? Its a legitimate question. I submit this election will still turn in large part over security and Iraq (not who started it, but what we do about it). That and the economy. Americans will choose who they feel will make them safe. It is inevitable. Can Obama match McCain on that issue by saying I opposed the war back in the day? To me that is the great unanswered question to be decided as I do not believe this election will turn on who voted for the resolution on Iraq in the first place.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:45:04 GMT

Hilary is my choice. Obama gets on my nerves with his preaching bit.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Erin, San Francisco, California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:45:25 GMT

In the beginning I was truly on the fence with Obama and Clinton. She stressed experience, while he pushed for change. But what really began to sway my decision was the Iraq vote. I think Obama said it best last night, that it is important to be right on day one. So although experience is greatly needed, that clearly showed it doesn't always make for better judgment.
What also excites me is the ability Obama has to bring this nation together; to me he truly seems to be for the people. I know Clinton has done a lot of work in Washington but I can really appreciate all the hard work Obama has done not only in the Senate but also directly in the streets working one on one with Americans, to me that means a lot.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Linda, Torrance, California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:45:36 GMT

Something I have not seen covered in the media is that non-partisan voters in California can vote in the Democratic primary, but not the Republican primary. Twenty percent of California's registered voters are independent, representing the swing vote. They will all be casting ballots for the Democratic primary, and will swing it towards the center. I think the beneficiary of this is Hillary Clinton.

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Kris Linde — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:46:09 GMT

Clinton this time...Obama next time. They both have merit and will make a fine President..but for me, not quite yet for Obama. He's a bit like a soufle that looks great when you put on the oven light...but take it out of it's baking cycle too soon and it will colapse in the middle. Let him gain the benefit of a little more time in developing himself in Washington and maybe someday he can make the same claim that Hillary can now...ready for the pile of work on the desk at the Oval office.

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ObamaRama — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:46:34 GMT

Marbw (Sent Friday, February 01, 2008 12:00 PM)

See you Wednesday, which is how long it would take to try to read the O-Spama you clog the board with on a daily basis. Really looking forward to your posts after Barry's big Tuesday night...

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Cori Inman, Tacoma, Washington — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:46:36 GMT

I don't believe that Obama is ready to handle the problems and clean up that await the next president. Hillary Clinton was there when her husband's administration cleaned up and turned our economy around. As a new small business owner the economic policies of our next president can help me make it or break my business. I will not be rolling the dice with Obama. Hillary Clinton has my vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mark, Columbus, OH — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:47:13 GMT

I think Obama has a better chance of winning some southern states away from the GOP than Clinton does. In a close race, that could make the difference between a Republican or Democrat winning.

I like that Obama was against the Iraq war from the start. That tells me that his judgement is his own and that he won't let others sway him when he knows that something is wrong. Hillary still seems like the type to check what the polls say before committing to something, regardless how right or wrong it is.

Both of them would make fine Presidents. But Obama is my favorite.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

greg merritt,myrtle beach,s.c. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:47:15 GMT

Chuck....
12 combined years of the Bushs' and 8 for the Clinton,
time for a change......Obama/Edwards in 08......

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Emilio Soto,Jamaica New York — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:47:23 GMT

Nothing will really change and America will follow what no Candidate so far has mentioned.Looks like Clinton as President and Mr.Obama as Vice-president,good combination will take the changes forward and look for better days.

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Frank Collins, Ramsey, NJ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:47:39 GMT

Easy for a State Senator to say no on Iraq when he didn't need to make the decision, nor did he have any access to the information being provided to real Senators at the time. Any body can be right once, especially when it's a decision they didn't have to make. I will not vote for this man.

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Los Angeles, California — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:47:53 GMT

No more Clinton and Bush for me.

Obama is my choic after the debate. Hillary's view on using immagration as an an excuse for jobs, was up-setting to me. we need to come together, and punish the company that hire immagrants in the first place.

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JT, Texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:48:00 GMT

R. Forbes,

"Obama has made his life about helping others, not ambition". My God, you don't think it is pretty ambitious to want to be the President of the United States your whole life?

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Meg — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:48:17 GMT

I am undecided. I like both candidates but I want the candidate who will beat the Republican to win. My decision will probably be "Uncomitted".

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GM — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:48:27 GMT

Hillary gets my vote. Obama can save his preachin for the church and Oprahs show.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Carole — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:48:40 GMT

I think most people seem unaware of the media bias against Hillary. I notice it on MSNBC and in my local newspaper. Positive Obama news gets more prominent position every time. OK now, how can you really think Obama is a honest and straight forward leader with so many "present" votes in office? Why doesn't the Press capitalize on that? How can he call Hillary on Iraq? There was faulty intelligence--give her a break. Remember Bush came across as a "warm" guy. I'm voting for the stronger and better qualified candidate--Hillary!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Amy. McLean, VA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:48:56 GMT

Clinton seems so mature and really thinks the issues through. Examples include her explanation to Kim about the hispanics taking over african american jobs, her mastery over her health plan. Although most people seem to take the Iraq war at face value, there was a lot of reasoning to Senator Clinton's vote. Senator Obama is saying that he would make the right judgements on Day one, yet conceded that as a president , errors can occur and he would include the nation. How do such errors differ from Senator Clinton' voter error on a war that went bad. I do understand her rationale on her vote on the Iraq resolution.

Senator Obama has a great mind, but lacks the maturity right now to be president. My 18 year old son, a first time voter thinks "Obama is the man" and so do most young people who do not weigh the issues. My son has no clue of the seriousness of the election.

However, I do feel that Senator Obama WILL be ready in a few years!

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Muniz4Hillary — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:48:57 GMT

Hillary has the answers! Hillary has been working with the other side for years, getting things accomplished! Hillary has been helping people since she was in college... mainly our children! Hillary has traveled to 79+ countries and has fought for human/woman rights! Hillary's record shows that she has fought for the people long before she decided to run for president and she has gotten RESULTS and she will continue fighting for the people! Hillary has withstood the vicious, malicious attacks from the republican attack dogs for many, many years before she announced her presidency... SHE HAS STOOD THROUGH IT ALL AS SHE WILL FOR THIS COUNTRY!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Franco Di Nyllo, Orlando, Florida — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:49:04 GMT

The choice is all ours to make based on this:

Obama --> Natural Leader, Inspirational for the future, Intelligent, Unity Generator, Decision Maker, Positive & Strong Character, Will inspire respect for the US worldwide.

Clinton --> Outstanding Follower, Unsure of the future, Old School, Purely Political, Intelligent, Conflict Generator, Scandal Prone, insecure on issues, Shadowed by her husband, Problematic, Weak decision maker.

McCain --> Great Politician, Good Senator, Unclear on issues, Conflict Generator, Old School, Just doesn't meet the quota.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Edward Chacha, South Bend, IN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:49:41 GMT

Chuck you're a genius man! Unlike some other stupid pundits, you always analyse issues quite well(intelligently). I thought Obama scored big when the debate tilted to Iraq, but listenning to some stupid pundits last night who said "Hillary was so knowleagable...blah..!blah..!",it made me sick. I had no choice but to turn the TV off and go to bed. Good analysis Chuck!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

NBB — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:49:45 GMT

First to all undecided voters....Although Obama is a great teleprompter speaker he stumbles through his answers,clearly Clinton is a better debater.Second what can the republicans throw at Clinton that hasnt been written,spoken and debated before.Do not buy into the media hype that the repulicans want Clinton to go up against.Trust the repulican attack machine would love to throw out all the dirt on Obama that none of us know about yet.They would have a much harder time digging up dirt on THE CLINTONS,that hasnt been thrown out before.Are you willing to take that risk?Third but certainly not least,Clinton is known the world over and has far more friends abroad then enemies.In conclusion,a vote for Clinton is not a vote to the past.....even if it was economically a much better time...it is a vote for a canidate that has learned from the past..to produce a brighter future for the USA.I for one will not risk the future of America to vote for a promise of change.No candidate is more prepared to deal with the rebublican attack machine then one who has alredy proven that they made it....by standing on that stage last night.I pray that you will vote for HILLARY CLINTON...A PROVEN SURVIVOUR.

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Sara — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:50:15 GMT

Will vote for hilary because:
1. I am a women
2. She have the experience that can get things done from day 1
3. To me she won the debate, she changed me from voting for mcCain (because ron paul has no chance against the media and i would rather see my vote go to someone who is going to win for president). If Ron Paul wins i would go back to republicans.
4. She seemed more in touch with the audience than obama.

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TJ Johnson Arendtsville,PA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:50:22 GMT

As an older America {Native American} you people need to open your eyes and forget about the "Old White House" politicts. I'm not sure Hillary is the answer, but she far surpasses Obama in knowledge and experience. I am a registered Dem. but if Obama is the one I will not vote Dem. Look at what Hillary has done over the last 16plus years. Not all was bad. More good than not. What has Obama done except get Oprahs indorsement.

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Not For Odumba — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:50:35 GMT

Hillary 2008 and beyond. She hands down won the debate. Like she said it took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush and it will take one to clean up after this one. We have a church here in town Obama could get a job at since the only real experience he has is talking. Obama for Preacher or minister!! Hillary for President!!!!!!!!!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Pat, Vancouver, WA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:50:35 GMT

Regarding the Iraq issue, Barak Obama made a very pretty speech in 2002 declaring his opposition to the war, when he didn't have to cast a meaningful vote. However, since he has become a US Senator, he has consistently voted with Clinton on all Iraq related Senate votes. Except once: When called upon to put his voice and reputation on the line to in effect censor the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, he didn't show up. This is consistent with his record in the Illinois Legislature, where he voted "present" hundreds of times rather than cast the votes that required him to take a position. Does this man have political courage?

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Shirl (Columbus, GA) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:50:58 GMT

NY, NY, So be it that you will no longer watch MSNBC anymore. You need to know your own candidate's platform and vote for the one that YOU think is the best candidate. Are you afraid that Keith Olberman and Chris Matthews will persuade you to vote for the candidate that is not your choice? You wonder what Laura Bush has been doing for 7 years. George Bush IS the president and NOT Laura Bush. I am sure Laura has no interest in running for any political office as Hillary does. Why do you say Pat Buchanan is the truthful one? Is it because he is saying what you want to hear? If Hillary is your choice for president, vote for Hillary and stop bashing others for their opinions.

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EUEGENE PFENNIG — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:03 GMT

SOMEONE IN THIS CAMPAIGN REPRESENTS TO ME A MAN THAT WAS CALLED CARPETHERIA SO BEWARE OF THE VOTE. MRS CLINTON WILL BE ACCEPTED BY THE CONGRESSIONAL FOLKS IN THE SENATE AND HOUSE BECAUSE THEY FIRST OFF WILL BE CONTROLLED BY THE DEMOCRATS. AND WE HEAR SO MUCH ABOUT HER NOT BEING STRONG BECAUSE OF THE EVENTS AND INUENDOS SHE ABSORBED WHILE SHE WAS THE FIRST LADY, IF IN DOING WHAT SHE DID, DID NOT SHOW STRONG FORTITUDE AND UNDERSTANDING SOMETHING NEEDED IN THE WHITE HOUSE, WOULD IT HAVE BEEN EASIER TO CUT AND RUN OF COURSE BUT SHE STAYED AND WORKED IT OUT.

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Andy, Washington DC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:10 GMT

I have a few questions for all posters, I you were sick what type of doctor would you seek assistance from an expereince doctor who has seen it all, been scrutinized for over 20 years, or a new doctor who says great things but has no experience, apply that reason to anything you value and now you are in jeopardy of losing your valuables, who do you choose. An intelligent person will choose the experience person 100% over an unexpereince person. Tough times need tough people, vote with head not your heart. vote Hilary

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kaligyrl — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:10 GMT

those who dislike hillary are a bunch of haters!! if anyone tells me one more time she is unelectable i will scream!!! Dont take it up with me take it up with the 1 million voters who voted for her in the Florida primary--hahahahahahahahaha- u haters

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Juan Fernandez, Altamonte Springs, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:17 GMT

Frankly, I will vote for Barack Obama as the next president of the US. I strongly feel that no other candidate offers the possibility of a fresh start without the baggage of the failures of the past presidents during the last two decades. A a citizen, i cannot afford to vote in someone so predictable, and so unispiring as Clinton or as McCain, and i would like for once, be proud on my citizenship..so that I can take a plane to anywhere in the world and be able to stand tall....I feel who should pay more attention to the domestic issues, without the distraction of a war we cannot win for obvious reasons.

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Robert Basham — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:27 GMT

Hillary is the best candidate in 2008, Obamas sounds like a Baptist Preacher when he speaks, and the Republicans are all running for who is the most religious. I want a separation of church and state as it says in the Constitution. The christians have had their chance with Bush and he failed!

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REZAN ,N.J, — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:29 GMT

FIRST OFF I HAVE TO SAY WHEN THE CLINTON'S WE'RE IN THE WHITE HOUSE THE UNITED SATES OF AMERICE WAS VERY WELL RESPECTED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE WORLD!!!
SINCE THE BUSH ERA IT IS THE EXACT OPPOSITE WE ARE THE MOST HATED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD!!!
I THINK THAT BOTH OBAMA AND HILARY SHOULD STOP THE FIGHTING BETWEEN THE TWO OF THEM AND THEY SHOULD WORK TOGETHER AND PERSONALLY WHICH EVER ONE DOESN'T GET NOMINATED SHOULD BE THE OTHER ONE'S RUNNING CANTIDATE AS VICE PRESIDENT. THE BOTH OF THEM WOULD GET THE UNITED STATES BACK TO WHERE WE BELONG AND FINNALY GET BUSH OUT ONCE AND FOR ALL!!!AS FAR AS WHO I WILL VOTE FOR I AM NOT SURE I KNOW WHAT HILLARY HAS DONE FOR NEW YORK AND SHE HAS DONE A TREMENDOUS JOB AND SHE IS THE DEFINITION OF WHAT A ROLE MODEL SHOULD BE FOR ALL YOUNG GIRLS IN THE UNITED STATES AND WHAT THIS COUNTRY NEEDS IS A GOOD ROLE MODEL FOR OUR CHILDREN (INSTEAD OF WHAT WE HAVE HAD FOR THE PAST EIGHT YEARS) I JUST HOPE THE ALL OF THE PEOPLE THAT HAD VOTED FOR BUSH WILL LEARN FROM THERE PAST MISTAKES AND ACCTUALLY MAKE A SMART DECISION FOR THE CHILDREN THAT WILL CARRY THE BURDEN OF OUR PAST MISTAKES.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Claudia C — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:47 GMT

After the debate, I am still a Hillary girl!
Obama makes me nervous. He stated that when he becomes president he will be "right" he said we need someone who will walk into the office the first day and make the right choice? If you ask Brush he would tell you the same thing" I have been right about the war I have been right about signing statements.... I rather have someone like Hillary, who can admit if I knew what I know now I would not vote that way.... will do the best to clean up this miss in DC, she never claims she prefect...Obma is the liberal side to Bush... with me or against me right wrong black white.... this is to simple we live in grays and we are human and make mistakes it what you do after things go wrong its how flexible you can be... it what kind of human being we want in the white house. We don’t need another president who feels they are right liberal or conservative… we need someone who will listen to advice makes the best choice then if it is a mistake will correct it instead of being Right!!!! I want to know what you do when your wrong… what you do when you make mistakes….doesn’t someone who states there right make anyone nervous it does me… take my word he is the flip side of Brush and we will have another President who feels they are Right…Right…. Oh please God not again……

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom, (IA) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:51:51 GMT

I also am a convert from Clinton to Obama. Obama has managed to attract new voters, and has also been able to attract independents and some republicans. Clinton has not, and this election is too important to risk losing the general election because of those who can't stand the clintons. My apologies Bill, you were a great president, but you were once inexperienced as Obama and look what you did. Give Obama a chance.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

campdog — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:53:58 GMT

In fairness to the Iraq war issue one should think back to the time when America was being briefed by Powell and others as to the "evidence" of WMD etc. and the potential for harm they may have done. America was in defensive mode and was taking NO chance that there might be another similar attack.... like we all don't pretty much know this.

To use the fact that Clinton voted in favor of the resolution that enabled the war as a club to beat her with just seems unfair as most of us were similarly misled and most of us, had we been given the actual opportunity to vote on what steps we would have approved to enable government to protect our citizens would have made a choice similar to Clinton's...and Kerry's and Edwards and a whole lot of other good Dems.

Obama is a good man and he did make it known that he did not agree with the action of going into Iraq. But once elected to the Senate it became clear to him that situations often dictate a Senator's actions and sometimes one must vote in such a way as to do no harm..... it may not be a good thing one agrees with through one's vote but it is better than the perceived alternative. This might explain why Obama has voted with Clinton when the issue has been continued funding of the war effort.

Both of our candidates are strong and both are capable. As Democrats lets remember that we are being called on to select which we think will best be able to lead not just America, but the world in its struggle to eliminate the cultural based divisions that are destroying the lives of many innocent people. And let's focus on the possitive aspects of both candidate and make our selection based on who is better rather than less worse.

As a life long Dem I see the first opportunity in my lifetime to take and hold the White House for the next 16 years. WE CAN DO THIS!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

dk ketchum ,id — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:54:06 GMT

I just wonder why Clinton doesn't hit Obama over the head with he came out against the war while still in the illinios senate. He had NO info real inside info to make a informed decision. He shot from the hip. Now you might say he shot from the hip and was right , but how about he got lucky this time and makes uniformed important decisions a lot. Is that who we want leading the country.

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Carole — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:54:38 GMT

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Abby, Brooklyn , NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:54:45 GMT

I am a die hard Clinton fan. Both Hillary and Bill Clinton, in my opinion have done well. Although I respect Obama I know very little about him. To be honest with you I have not seen him in the forefront until his campaign for presidency. I am an African-American female and I don't want to fall into the trap of voting for Obama simply because he is a black man. The reason why I strongly support Hillary is because even before her presidential campaign she had been on the political forefront fighting for every cause she believed in despite the fact that her views were unpopular with the majority. She is her own person and is not afraid to fight for whatever cause she believes in. When Bill Clinton was in office (correct me if I am wrong) he was the only American president to take a strong interest in the social policies of Africa. He personally visited a number of African countries including Ghana where my parents are from originally. He donated money for resources to fix Ghana's water supply system. It was at that point that I admired him and his cause. The Clintons are not afraid to speak on anything they believe in. And they have the strength to do that. Obama I'm afraid has to eventually answer to his most powerful and influential supporters. Since they primarily are the ones who intially gave him the backing and the strong standing that he has right now. When it comes down to it if elected President will his allegiance be to the actual "John Q" voters or to his powerful supporters? Does he have the strength and the gusto to stand on his own beliefs even if they are contrary to the majority? Or will he buckle down and go with what agendas his supporters believe he should fight for?

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BRIDGET YANKOWITZ KINGMAN ARIZONA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:17 GMT

I wont vote for anyone who is weak on the illegal immigration problem. As a middle class worker I am tired of our borders not secured or the laws not being enforce that are on the books. The illegal's are costing tax payers billions of dollars in healthcare when our hospitals are being closed down do to immigrants not paying there bills and California is a perfect example. Also our education is a strain as well. The illegal immigrants have no business demanding rights or benefits when they dont belong in this country in the first place. It is not fare to the ones who have waited legally. Our borders are being run by drug cartels from mexico and our border patrols are being attacked,cops are being shot and criminals and gangs are running the streets just look at California. Child molestors also are praying on our children and a few was caught in Arizona. We the American people want our borders secured now not later. Terrorist are also trying to cross over our borders and Ariozna Border patrols already caught some. I already lost a dear frind in 9-11 and I hate lose anyone else I care About. I and millions of American say NO! TO AMNESTY.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Suzan VanderMeulen, Austin, TX — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:21 GMT

I was pleased to see the comment from our Canadian friend. I am also Canadian, applying for US citizenship, specifically to be able vote in this election. What inspired me? OBAMA. I agree with my fellow Canadian that qualities of character should guide the voting process. Both the Clintons have demonstrated over their TOO many LONG years in the public eye, a deep lack of moral depth and fiber. Like Kennedy said to the previous administration when it was suggested he wait to gain more experience - "NO thanks, this country needs a change NOW". And so it is true for this country NOW. Obama can beat the Republicans, Hillary cannot, she has been and remains too divisive with her continuing diatribe on the 'Republican conspiracy' against she and her "husband". I have to trust that this country has the courage and intelligence to make the right decision, Tuesday, February 5th and then in the National election. I know I will if I get the chance!! Suzan

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luigi Tucson,AZ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:21 GMT

Hillary Clinton is not a New Yorker ,but a lying southern belle from Arkansas..wouldn't vote for her ,either Obama both isn't my choice,as of now ...on the other side wouldn't vote for McCain either ,He's for the longer addition stay in iraq and more troops for the invasion of iran ...another war monger !!!!!

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susan mcarthur,charlton,mass. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:33 GMT

Why does no-one mention all the special prosecutors and investigations going on when Bill and Hillary were in the white house. The money that was spent on these two people being investigated was rediculous. I believe that the same thing will happen if they get the white house back. More underhanded deals and more croneism. Vote BARAK OBAMA

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mark smalling — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:33 GMT

Clinton is my choice, period.
Why?....I've heard all the grand speeches about hope and change for 62 years. If that has worked, why is the country in the mess it's in today?
You can't "nice guy" this country back to what it should be. The Republican machine is going to be in full gear. Hillary has endured their ruthless attacks in the past,survived and moved forward to great accomplishment. She will again.
Senator Obama, as good as his intentions may be, has yet to face the heat...and the scherdule for saving this country has no alloted time for a training period.

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Lisa, Long Island — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:37 GMT

What I find hilarious is that anyone actually believes anything any of these politicians say, whether dem or rep, or actually believes that anything a president does can "change Washington." Washington has been the same since the first Congress - driven by power, money, and ego. Nothing any president says will change that, unless there are term limits on all Senators and Congressmen. They ALL want to skim off your paycheck and feed their pork barrel interests. ALL of the candidates are the same. Seriously, don't fool yourselves.

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Mathias N — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:55:46 GMT

What you have to ask yourselves before all of the obvious character issues is this, who would Hillary be if it where not for a powerfull man, and very popular ex- pres. Surly not even a Senator from NY. She is not the best woman to be President, I would much rather see Nancy P. Or a woman who has great accomplishments of her own. Not one of Hillary's are her own, only because someone had connections,and put her there. Look at what is happening with the Obama movement, fundraising alone tells you, 700,000 donors?! The american people are funding his presidency, wich is quite unique to American ploitics. Normally special interest decide the 2 canidates you get to vote for in November. Hillary may raise a lot of money, but from the same old faces. Judgment over a tag along spouce anyday. Her nomination does nothing for womens rights, it say you can do anything, if you have a strong man behind you. She is the wrong canadate, for women, change, or to beet McCain. Obama would beet McCain in a land slide, she will lose big. No independents will vote for her. Problem demi's if you want to win, and can stand Obama, you better gethim on the ticket!

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Brett, Claremont, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:56:10 GMT

Both would be a disaster for this Country! A President needs to do what is in the best interest of the Country not what the media, and public education "Feels" best. Both groups have been educated far beyond their intelligence anyway. McCain wins in November.

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Ronald Simpson Iowa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:56:18 GMT

I cannot under stand why someone don't ask the canadates what they consider poor. I think that some think 250,000.00 a year is low income. I think Most of the population would like that income. I know I would like that income.

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Mark Thomas, Zeeland, MI — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:56:37 GMT

Like many, I was undecided until just a few weeks ago, when I started really listening to the candidates and their views. In a brief time, I have probably started leaning more toward Ms. Clinton.

My decision isn't based on anyting Mr. Obama did, but more of what he didn't do that Clinton did. All during his campaign, he is used the tag line about change... change in Washington. But, during the Michigan primary, Obama decided to sit out. Why, because his party told him too!!!

He keeps stating he will represent the people, but this demonstrates that he is still tied into his parties demands. What happens if he gets into office? Will he fold under party pressures.

Secondly, he is using Opra as a pawn for the black vote. Opra and others are telling blacks to vote for him... because he's black.... why not vote for him because he's the best candidate.

If you don't state your opinion, how can you be held accountable? Obama is just now starting to state his opinion on important issues... why, because he is trying to play the crowd... what's popular this week. Clinton has stated her opinion up front, and yes her stance on issues may have changed... but she is up front with her thoughts from the beginning.

If Hilary is the party choice, she will have my vote... it not, then I will most likely go republican. Obama is the fourth best candidate remaining.... and he's fourth because other have dropped out to move him up. He cannot make a tough decision on his own.

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RJ, Providence, RI — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:03 GMT

Hillary debated better. But Barack had better answers.

Obama made one crucial point that the Democrats need to consider. McCain is going to tear apart Hillary's position on Iraq war. The Republican machinery will do everything in its power to brand her as a flip-flopper and reduce her stature, just as they did to Kerry.

Obama can stand up to McCain on character, judgment and integrity; better than Hillary.

I want a Democrat in the White House in 08. Go OBAMA!

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Tim, Iowa — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:07 GMT

Did anyone notice that CNN gave double the amount of time for Clinton to talk than for Obama to talk? Seriously, I couldn't pay attention because she kept talking the whole time about policies, money, and other nonsense.

And what about Wolf B. provoking Obama into slinging mud at Hillary. I told myself that I would turn the TV off if I heard Wolf claim that Obama took a swipe a Clinton (2-3 times, by my account).

Obama, I think, did excellent in a pro-Clinton environment with a pro-Clinton news network. They just set Clinton up to talk the entire time and lull people to sleep.

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Fay Barrows, New York, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:11 GMT

The best ticked would be Clinto/Obama. When she leaves office - he will be the next president. There will be no excuses that he does not have experience.

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Rich Gallaher, Anchorage, Alaska — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:29 GMT

I support Barack Obama for several reasons but what troubles me about a Hillary win, which I doubt, is a co-presidency. If Hillary wins the nomination, we'll have at least another 4 years of a Republican in the White House. She can't beat McCain and a McCain presidency frightens me.

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Luke, Bloomington, IL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:31 GMT

To Chuck: There is one single reason that I am voting for Obama. He makes his candidacy about us. Listen to their speeches. Hillary talks about what SHE can do for this country. Obama talks about what WE can do together. He's calling upon us to heal America, similar to great democratic leaders of the past.

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Kyle Westphal, Redding, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:33 GMT

I believe Barrack won last night's debate but it was very refreshing to see them act civil to one another. They missed a great opportunity wheh Wolf asked the question about being VP on each other's ticket. Barrack should have looked at Hillary, smiled and took her hand and held it high for a moment. They both would have been smiling and holding hands - the picture would have been splashed across every paper in the nation. Also, Hillary just blew the snarky question from the female panelist about her being able to "control" Bill if she were elected. Didn't her handlers prepare her for this question? She should have looked right at her and said "I flatly reject the question. Does your spouse "control" you? Do we really want a president that "controls" their spouse? Again, either way - we will all support our Democratic nominee in the fall.

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Craig, Los Angeles — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:41 GMT

was hoping to see each author's bottom line opinion on who won at the top of their narrative so as to avoid needing to read the detail since work comes first

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kEITH BEAVAN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:42 GMT

I TAKE A DIFFERENT VIEW ABOUT BEING ON THE SAME STAGE...PARADOXICALLY OBAMA DID GAIN LAST NIGHT, BUT, AND THIS IS ABIG BUT, IT WAS NOT AT HILLARY'S EXPENSE. HE GAINED YET I DOUBT HE DENTED HILLARY'S SUPPORT

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Christina Pazos, Hollywood, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:48 GMT

Chuck,

It's just my humble (and very strong) opinion, but I think Obama's the better person for the job. In short, I think the meat of the difference is judgement and guts. Aside from the obvious judgement trump card that he holds over Hillary (the Iraq war), I see him making good calls time and again, and having the guts to follow his judgement, even when it's an uphill battle.

One example is that Hillary didn't run in 2004. If you remember, in 2004 there were already a lot of us who were desperate for a change, for new leadership and for an exit strategy from Iraq. According to Hillary's math, she would have had 31 years experience at the time. Yet she made the calculated decision that HER chances of winning would be better in 2008, so she didn't answer the call. I think she might very well have been wrong. The nostalgia of the Clinton years was still fresh and she would have made a better candidate than Kerry. I think she lacked both judgement to see that it was worth the fight and the guts to try when the odds were tough.

Obama, on the other hand, might be better off waiting... lots of talking heads say "he's good, but it's not his time." Well, his judgement told him that this uphill battle might well be the right time because it is truly a unique time in history. We will not have the same opportunities in 2012 or 16... maybe it would be easier for him to win later, but it wouldn't be the 'better' time for him to win. He had the guts to go for it now! He might not win the nomination, but the ruckus he's caused makes it clear that his judgement was spot on.

I guess what I'm saying is that I'd much rather have a president with good judgement and guts, then one who might be a good chess player.

As for beating the GOPs... he inspires and his message of unity does indeed transcend party. Plus, he's already polling better than Hillary in head-to-heads...

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Sherry Collins, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:48 GMT

There is no significant difference between Clinton's policies and Obama's policies. If you are judging on policies then you will have a difficult time. When it comes to experience, Hillary said last night that she wanted to be judged on her own merits and not her husband's. Yet she made mention of how great the country was doing when her husband was in office. This seems to be contradictory. She cannot say judge me on my own yet don't forget how good you lived when Bill was President.

If Hillary is a better debater then so be it. Obama is a motivator and a facilitator. Do we need a debater or a facilitator to run this country.

I appreciated how Obama said that all lobbying and special interests would be open to the public and not done behind closed doors. Would you not appreciate knowing who was lobbying who. This is why we are in the situation we are in today, because there is no transparency in government.

Hillary has no claim to fame. She was a First Lady that tried to push a Universal Health Care Plan and failed. How does she expect to get Health Care through when she failed before? Favors? Kickbacks?

Last night somebody asked the question of Hillary as to how would she affect change when the same two families have been in the White House for 30 years. We need a change, not the same.

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carbar, GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:57:55 GMT

To Chuck, undecided in NY

I am an AA female, and why I choose Obama over Hillary...

1. Don't like the mandated health insurance Hillary proposes. It's a conflict of interest for her being supported by medical related lobbyists, and what happens if a person can't pay the premium? Also the medical professions treating patients oppose it and would ensure further lackluster care. People do not like being forced to do anything so I see a backlash from Doctors and the profession in regard to personal care without having an option.

2. I liked he pointed out in last night debate 1/31/08 he's open to maybe being wrong sometimes. This stays in line with his projected persona but also further suggest he seeks other opinions than his own before making a decision. Therefore being more flexible in opting to weigh a decision with other people than like minded people like himself. Wich would result more favorably in unity than division which Hillary seems to thrive on and we'd continue getting the same thing we've had with Gov't forever.

3. He's stronger to fight on the Iraq war with McCain because he didn't agree to going in. What could Hillary say especially if the war presumably stays low on killings He also stated "talking" where she didn't say if she'd do it to the opposition(s) that may come our way. Due to his upbringing he has a more initmate sense of how they think than she does from across the water viewpoint. Many resolutions are started with "talking." and "understanding" to best resolve things in THE BEST WAY FOR AS MANY AS POSSIBLE INVOLVED.

4. Scary to think of Bill running loose often times alone in the WH, and I'm a staunch Dem who loved the Clinton yrs. & forgiveness of Monicagate especially after seeing/hearing their performance in this campaign to date that WAS NOT racial related. It let me see the cracks my white Repub friends been saying all along about her.

5. Her actual hands-on political experience is only 2-3 more yrs than he, but he's done more legislative work.

6. Her being a woman such as myself does not make her a bette candidate as it does not make him better because he's black as I am too. The race & gender thing is only the outer shell. Its the ideas that count at the end of the day. Her ideas are polarizing, a lot more in conflict of her interests because of her supporters versus the public's interests and often times resulting in divisivness and stalling with her plans to go forth for U.S.A.

7. His being bi-racial gives him a better understanding of "all" people "views" than the more limited view of what singular race people often times have for their own group's best interest only.

8. Per several political analysts more Republicans say they'd rather work with him than her because he's more open to listening than she.

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Frank Lopez — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:14 GMT

A country that ignores its history will repeat its mistakes... I remembered the all say about Bush & Gore (it's not knowledge, it how genuine the guy is / who would like to live next to Gore? / who wouldn't like to live next to Bush?). And forget Bush & Kerry (who wants to vote for a surfer who wears those clothes?) Therefore, as a country, where are we now after voting not once, but twice for the ideas, for the nice guy? Where? If you are as smart as I think you are, I do not have to tell you. But again, the Romans knew it too... and...

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Ben, Michigan — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:14 GMT

I'm tired of MSNBC trying to sway this primary. It is obvious that Tim Russert, Keith Olberman, Joe Scarborough (and Mica), etc have it in for Hillary Clinton. This was obvious after she won Florida and they referred to that it as a "beauty contest". It's not as if they don't have televisions in Florida. Even though there were no delegates, the people of Florida (and Michigan) have spoken. Just watching their coverage over the last several months, every story they run about Clinton is very negative and the stories of Obama are positive and well spun. It is clear that MSNBC has endorsed Obama. They either need to get a back bone and admit it or go back to reporting the news. I have been a long time viewer of MSNBC (in peticular Keith Olberman) but not anymore.

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J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:21 GMT

Once again First Read's brand of yellow journalism tells only half the story.
Hillary's constituency was attacked on 911. The President of The United States was running around, all over the country telling us were going to be attacked in 45 minutes.
She had to make a decision that she felt was in the best interests of the people she represents.
Barrack Obama was not in The U.S. Senate either 90 911 or when that vote was taken, and didn't have to make that choice.
Furthermore, he has voted several times to continue funding the Iraq War, in spite of claiming to be against it from the start.
Lastly (and this is a point that has completely gone over the news media's head) The Republican Party's main agenda in the 2002 off year election, was the promise of going to war in Iraq. The vote to authorize the use of force was taken in both houses sometime around the first week of October.
It passed, and less then a month later the G.O.P. was given full control over the House and Senate by the American voting public.
The point to this, is that Americans WANTED that war back in 2002, and they showed their approval by giving control of The Congress to the party that promised to give them that war.
First Read's failure to report this is indicative of the media's prejudicial, biased and untruthful coverage of this election cycle. It's quite obvious you people are openly cheerleading for Obama.
I used to thing Fox News was bad.
But, I can see now that MSNBC is no different.

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Obama no way — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:26 GMT

Obama---Republican!! Obama-----all talk!! Obama----for deparment of conversation!! Obama----- America will fall!!! Obama-------for a divide america!!! Obama-----Liar!!! Obama----just stay home you sucked here in Illinois and you would ruin the country!!! United we stand Obama we fall!!!

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Mondo, Miami, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:40 GMT

Hillary will wipe the floor with any Republican any day of the week. She's been through it a million times and she's the strongest woman on earth.
Obama? Nothing against him at all, I wish him luck the next time around but THIS election we have to support Hillary to really get things done. Plus, Hillary will absolutely eat McCain alive. Are you kidding!
Another thing that makes me support Hillary is the CONSTANT Swift Boating of her by MSNBC. Everyday Joe Scarboro, Chris Matthews, and Tucker Carlson, spew their venomous hate at her. This is every single day without fail. Also, what about ight wing tools Stephanie Miller and Ed Schultz? They're HORRIBLE people and they bash the Clinton's non stop. The more they do it, the more I support HILLARY!

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me — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:50 GMT

Barrack Hussein Osama/Obama... Not much difference

Isn`t that enough?

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Get Real Chino Hills, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:50 GMT

Regarding Hillary's vote on Iraq ->I think it was a bad choice in hind sight (Always 20/20). If the war was managed/went a different way, I think everyone would think differently. Is it fair for the Obama campain to use this when he was not in the Senate and did not have to make a choice?? I can back seat drive as well.

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Sharon — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:58:57 GMT

If there's another Presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, turn off the sound and read closed caption. You'll be shocked at Obama's ability to give unspecific, illogical or evasive answers. Everyone is so caught up in the hope of youth and the color of his skin that they're not hearing his lack of experience. The candidates answers need to be evaluated like any job interview. Would you hire someone who pauses, stammers, and can't be any more descriptive than "stuff"? Of course not. We did that with the last election.

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Jules, Oakland,CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:59:05 GMT

The bottom line is on Tuesday Febuary 5th one must decide who fits the mold to become the representative for the Democratic Party. Obviously that choice must be someone who embodies honesty, integrity and a will to change the makeup of these last 7 years along with old politics. Both candidates convey a clear and decisive understanding for leadership. The underlying difference has to do with who will create a better tomorrow by sticking by their promises of "CHANGE"...OBAMA is the one who can guide us towards a better tomorrow...Please vote for the right candidate on February 5th...OBAMA is the legimate answer...Sorry Hillary...you may now focus on V.P.

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Sharon — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:59:23 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Irene — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:59:29 GMT

It is very easy for some people to support Barack Obama. He was not in the Senate when the vote was case. The more we spend on this issue the more we lose. John Kerry voted for the War and yet he lost in 2004. Barack supported him. I think the American people a past this. Obama is young and can be the VP which will keep the WH on the Democrats hand for the next 16 years. Hillary is the most experienced and truly understands the issues. She proved that in the beginning of the debate last night. But no one seems to want to keep that in mind. Yes I like a person who is inspirational but the fact is that to me Obama is anonther John Kerry and will be eaten up in the General election. Bill Clinton's past is not Hillary,s and I believe her when she says that she will get the job done. Barack will not bring repug or independs anymore then Hillary will. People who believe we belong in Iraq for the next One hundred years will vote for McCain. Everyone else will vote for Hillary. Dems you really need to stop all of this and join together or we will lose in the fall.

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lisa m gore — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:00:09 GMT

my vote is for hilary clinton.i have not forgot about 911 yet.obama why is he trying so hard to get in the white house.so he can move obama bin laden in.everytime i see his face.i see the twin towers falling.some people voting for him.because the color of his skin.hilary has did alot for her american people.what have the other do.so if mccain was in the military.so was alot of other people.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

DJK — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:00:18 GMT

Obama voters are more naive than I thought they were if they think Republicans are just going to fall down, give up their conservativism, and unite behind Obama just because he's Obama. I don't think they realize that not everybody worships him like they and the media do.

Obama admitted that if he had been in the Senate for the Iraq vote, he doesn't know how he would have voted. The next time they meet in a debate, I hope Clinton will have the exact quote on hand, so that his hypocrisy can be exposed.

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Chris, Washington, DC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:00:19 GMT

Clinton will have difficulty winning a general election, Obama will find it impossible to win a general election. Please consider the US as a whole and tell me honestly if the citizens of this country will vote for an admitted drug user, with only three years of federal experience to run the country during a time of external threat and economic problems. He also has a shaky voting record on pro-choice rights. Tack on to that that he is an African-American with a foreign sounding name and a member of an extremely afrocentric church and you tell me who he can beat. I don't mean to sound racist but unfortunately, most people vote for the person who most closely remind them of what they see in the mirror every morning.
Hillary maybe despised by a hard-core group but each of those individuals gets one vote only. She has a hard core group of supporters as well a significant amount of the iffy vote.
As for yesterday's debate, Obama paused way too often and seemed unsure of how to answer a few questions. It has also been said that Obama does not wait around after his planned speeches to take tough questions from journalists. Clinton at least will take on any question put to her. In New York, she has also been able to unite Democrats with Republicans who previously hated her. She has the ability to unite.
For undecided Democrats and independents, please take the time to parse actual facts about Hillary from the allegations that the Republican smear machine has spread to the point that people believe the untruths as fact.
It would be wonderful to have a black President but not at the cost of this country's ability to run smoothly. It would also be horrible to see Obama do a poor job because he is 4-8 years short of being ready for the firestorm that the US government is.

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dm92 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:01 GMT

"Hillary in the debate certainly showed she has a better health care plan approach than what sounds to be a piece-meal plan put forth by Sen. Obama. Hers is a melded plan with the true intent of covering everyone. Sen. Obama is naive if he believes all people will voluntarily purchase insurance".

Both plans require the buying of insurance by those who want it - neither plan covers people automatically. To me, real universal healthcare is like the canadian system - taxes cover the costs and people automatically get covered - neither candidate is offering that. In Massachusetts, I understand that people not only were mandated to get insurance, they get fined if they don't comply.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

scooter, Whitmore Lake, Mich. — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:15 GMT

I'd like to address a couple of concerns in both parties...... I appreciate the intellegent & in dept thinking of all the above & tho still undecided as I am I'd like to voice some concerns.....IN BOTH PARTIES! Why would someone not showing respect for our Pledg of Alligence, want to convince us that thru CHANGE will provide a better future for my grandchildren? The illegal immigrants issue?? Why can't they return home and enter this country legally & get a job like we americans have to & stay out of our Social Security system. I won't mention the war or the abortion as both sides of issue seem to have good points. The waiting and going thru partcile birth abortion shouldn't be allowed tho...In closing tho as a Christian who reads the Bible, I know God is in control & I've read the back of the book(Bible) and in the end those who uphold the bibical standard of living that this country was founded upon, will be the winners in the end. We need to wake up, our fore fathers gave us a good country & we little by little have stripped our country of decent rules to live by. Crime won't case it will get worse unless we do something NOW!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

JT, Texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:19 GMT

Marbw,

Is this site for posting our views, or your political advertising?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Atlanta GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:31 GMT

Once again the all knowing northeastern media thinks they know everything. If Obama gets the nomination then most of Clinton's supporters and I do mean women will vote for McCain.

This is the attrocious elitist northeastern know-it-all media about to be surprised again becuase they are so inbred that they all have the same narrow opinions concerning America.

Obama is the current version of Jesse Jackson only he stutters and loses his train of thought while speaking. Maybe a leftover from his cocaine days.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jeff G., Denver, Colorado — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:35 GMT

Bad journalism at its finest.

The Press treats politics as a game and a sporting event. The premise that there is a "winner" of a debate is in itself evidence of a lack of journalistic integrity.

A debate should allow the candidates to advance their qualifications toward voters, allowing us citizens to decide who we think the best qualified candidate is to lead our Nation. If the debate is well facilitated, it will show us their views and help us make our choice.

The "winner" will be known on election day when people make their selection and choose who they think is best qualified to lead the Nation. That is the only definition of winning that doesn't involve a media created news story.

Unfortunately the Fourth Estate forgot its purpose years ago. They handicap debates as if they were sporting events, essentially 'telling' citizens who wins and loses. It is almost impossible to find the real facts of an issue because the press is too busy talking about which candidate is scoring or losing points due to their overpriced haircuts, witty lies about opponents (that almost always go unchallenged by reporters), and angry husbands. Its sad and it is a tremendous disservice to our Nation and their profession.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Natalie — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:46 GMT

Obama is running is campaign just like my fathers reaction after loses a golf match...."If I would have made that putt I would have won"...WELL GUESS WHAT YOU DIDN'T MAKE THE PUTT!! It is very easy to say what you would have done when you weren't really faced with the issue! Obama voted present on many issues in Illinois, pressed the "wrong" button on 5 hard pressed issues, has missed 16% of the votes in the senate..including the labeling iranian guards a terrorist organization. Hillary has only missed 6%. The iraq question shouldn't even be asked to Obama, because he didnt have a vote.

Also, for all you people who say I would vote for a woman but not this woman..give me a break. This woman has more experience then most of the men in Washington. Finally she was able to give us examples in last nights debate. If its not this woman...I don't ever see having another female as a candidate. I am 24 and very worried that I'll never see a female president in my lifetime if "this woman" isn't elected!

Hillary in '08!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tim, Willoughby, Ohio — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:01:52 GMT

I am a Republican but I can see myslef voteing for Obama depending on the Republican candidate. Hillary scares me to death. I believe she will do worst than her husband did for this country. Clintons foreign affairs were a joke and the economy would of been where it was regardlless of who was in office during the mid-late 90's with the OPEC agreement.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

J.a.g — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:02:06 GMT

To me, I am currently a Republican and I hate to admit it but Obama really caught my eye. He seems sincere and means what he says. Clinton on the other hand trys to hard to please everyone and put on a show. I'm not a expert on politics and probably couldn't tell you all the issues at hand but I'm in the Marine Corps and from a leader you want someone you can TRUST and will always be there no matter how hard times get and dont give you excuses they give you solutions.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Amy — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:06 GMT

Who is Barack Obama?

Probable U. S. presidential candidate, Barack Hussein Obama was born
in Honolulu , Hawaii , to Barack Hussein Obama, Sr., a black MUSLIM
from Nyangoma-Kogel , Kenya and Ann Dunham, a white Athiest from
Wichita , Kansas .

Obama's parents met at the University of Hawaii . When Obama was two
years old, his parents divorced. His father returned to Kenya . His

mother then married Lolo Soetoro, a RADICAL Muslim from Indonesia .
When Obama was 6 years old, the family relocated to Indonesia . Obama
attended a MUSLIM school in Jakarta . He also spent two years in a
Catholic school.

Obama takes great care to conceal the fact that he is a Muslim. He is
quick to point out that, 'He was once a Muslim, but that he also
attended Catholic school.'

Obama's political handlers are attempting to make it appear that

that he is not a radical.

Obama's introduction to Islam came via his father, and that this
influence was temporary at best. In reality, the senior Obama returned
to Kenya soon after the divorce, and never again had any direct
influence over his son's education.

Lolo Soetoro, the second husband of Obama's mother, Ann Dunham,
introduced his stepson to Islam. Obama was enrolled in a Wahabi school
in Jakarta .

Wahabism is the RADICAL ISLAMIC teaching that is followed by the Muslim
terrorists who are now waging Jihad against the western world. Since
it is politically expedient to be a CHRISTIAN when seeking major
public office in the United States , Barack Hussein Obama has joined
the United Church of Christ in an attempt to downplay his Muslim
background. ALSO, keep in mind that when he was sworn into office he
DID NOT use the Holy Bible, but instead the Koran.

Barack Hussein Obama will NOT recite the Pledge of Allegience nor

will he show any reverence for our flag. While others place their hands

over their hearts, Obama turns his back to the flag and slouches.

Let us all remain alert concerning Obama's expected presidential
candidacy.

The Muslims have said they plan on destroying the US from the inside
out, what better way to start than at the highest level - through the
President of the United States , one of their own!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

ARNAIZ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:35 GMT

Go ! Hillary !

Next President 2008 !

THE BEST CHOICE !

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Laura, Minneapolis — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:39 GMT

I plan to attend my first caucus ever on Tuesday in support of Hillary Clinton. I hear Obama saying he will change things, yet I don't hear any details of how he plans to accomplish all these changes. I listen to his answers and feel he is talking in a circle. In contrast, I hear details from Hilary and feel she actually has some concrete plans and thought out ideas.

Secondly, I have doubts that Obama can be a uniter when during the debate when Hillary asked him to co-sponser a bill with her, he seemed very unwilling to do so. How can someone be a uniter when he appears so unwilling to co-sponser a bill from a respected Senator within his own party?

I was also unimpressed with Obama during the State of the Union address. He very clearly was unwilling to look at, acknowledge, or shake hands with Senator Clinton when standing/sitting with Senator Kennedy. It seems to me, that Senator Obama has alot of growing up to do. Hillary is clearly a more polished statesman, which I feel is a very important quality in a President.

Many people may not like the Clintons personally, but I can honestly say I was much better off during the Clinton years than I have been under eight years of the Bush administration.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Liam, Ireland — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:41 GMT

As an Irish citizen I won't be voting in your election but given Americas importance in the world I take a great interest in it. I can not believe how biased the American media has become in favour of Obama & against Clinton. It's as if Obama is a celebrity candidate and this celebrity is far more important than his track record ( such as it is) and lack of experience.

I enjoyed Clintons line about it needing another Clinton to clear up after a second Bush. As you have had eight years of this one maybe you need a Rodham Clinton

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

A Arroliga, Los Angeles CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:42 GMT

First a bit of background: As a Daughter of the American revolution, some of my my ancestors are Native Americans and some came here from Europe in 1732. Our family has always been patriotic and have fought in every war from the Revolution to Iraq. We know history, we think and discuss how this country changes. We have always been mindful of what we can do to keep this country great, and in the past few generations we vote either Democrat or Republican depending on our assessment of what is good for our great nation.
If Obama is the Democratic candidate, we will vote Democrat as Obama seeks good for the country and listens to needs expressed by the population.

If Monica Lewinski's ex-boyfriend's wife is nominated, she will do or say anything to garner power as she has no morals. She will do what SHE thinks is best for the little people because she thinks she knows better than we do what is good for us, since she believes she is so smart. If she is nominated, we will vote Republican this year.

And too bad, because I am a strong woman and would like to see a female President in my lifetime, but this candidate is not good for the USA.

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Dawn Rockas, Brooklyn, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:54 GMT

People, wake up and smell the coffee. Hillary won that debate last night. Obama is a good one-liner, but that's it. I do not need our next President to earn their chops during the first year.
Obama has NOT substance. Didn't answer questions, without first posturing for responses from audience.
You are crazy if you do not think that the Republican nominee will take Obama to task for LACK OF EXPERIENCE. If he wants to be a change agent, let him earn his chops somewhere else.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

elaine, glendale az — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:58 GMT

Both my husband and I have already voted for Hillary because she is a women, a highly qualified woman!! Bias against women in leadership is a reality (Catalyst.org, Harvard Business research, etc.). It is my mission in life to change that. Luckily, Hillary IS twice as qualified as any of the men. I have never seen a presidental candidate that had the same intensity, focus, knowledge, and the motivation to get a job done. No other candidate in my lifetime has shown the same traits. Not only is Hillary a woman but probably the best candidate the Democrats have ever had! Let's question our bias and make sure we do what is best for the Democreatic Party.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Brenda Christian, Princeville, Il — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:18:06 GMT

I plan on voting for Obama on Tues. Here's why. I am from central Illinois, and in August I attended an informational meeting on Obama in Peoria, I was sitting next to an elderly lady, we got to talking, she lobbies for the AARP in Springfield, I asked why she was supporting Obama and her answer is what convinced me. She has seen him broker deals on both sides of the aisle and he has the ability to get things done, with a no-nonsense approach to help the people. I am a CT technologist and hear the plight of our broken health care system every day from hard working people who can't afford health care. I like Obama's position on the health care issue. No one will every convince me that we needed to invade Iraq. I want our troops out. I think the GOP is old hat and the democrats represent a new beginning. I haven't been this excited over a campaign in a very long time.

GO BARACK!!!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

John Giga — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:18:07 GMT

Whats really the difference between Hillary and Obama? They've both been trained in the nations Ivy league Universities. They both have Senatorial experiences with Hillary having a few more years under her democratic belt. And they both want to run our country. Although they agree on most issues, Obama still sounds more genuine not like a figurehead, or a highly paid deceptive actress. Obama's vision seems more real than any of the canidates, dull and rehtorically predictable responses. And we certainly will not stand for another eight year rule of the disasteruous Clinton administration to say the least. We need truth , honesty and integrity in the White House just like our founding fore-fathers and Obama is the only canidate for the Job!! Obama all the way baby..!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Joseph Cruz, French Creek, West Virginia — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:18:16 GMT

The issues that face our country are complex and great. It is unrealistic to expect that every decision made will not have potential negative consequences. The world was a different place when John Kennedy ran for President; living under the constant threat of nuclear war, dealing with the aftermath of a world at war. It was easier to "hope for, and wish that, and hold onto only if's" to ease the reality of the times, but it took decisive action, hard decisions, and continual adjustment of policies and positions to do what was best for our Country.

I too find myself "hoping for, and wishing that, and saying only if", but realize that my desire for a changed world cannot be accomplished by hope alone. If this was the deciding factor, I would have won the lottery a hundred times over. Senator Clinton is the best poised to accomplish what we all long for--A safe, stable, economically flourishing Country with the respect and admiration of the world.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Peter Dempsey, Parhrump, NV — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:18:19 GMT

As a life-time republican, I am now more supportive of
a Democratic candidate as our next President. Charisma and competence are the key strengths for an effective President; Honesty and consistency play important supportive roles. How much any President can really accomplish is suspect, but the words a President uses to appeal to voters on important issues
is normally the measure of a "strong leader". And it's not always just in the speech writer's abilities. Good Presidents think well on their feet. We are looking for a leader that thinks before he/she talks, and answers a question directly, and exudes strong personal convictions in their responses. In other words, we want to know what candidates believe, not just what they say. I have no doubts that "Obama" is this candidate, whereas Hillery is verbose and evasive. Her answers are always "ring-around the roseyish" and she reminds me of of many lawyers I have known over the years. Obama is fresh, visionay and charismatic. He could be a decisive President that restores our nation to
respectability and imparts within each American a sense of duty, loyalty and hard work. The Kennedy's seems to know the lesser of two evils by endorsing Obama. They have a deep-seated envy and hatred of the Clintons. That is as it should be, since the Clintons have not embraced our national morals and ideals. They have been comsummate politicians, but poor role models for our future citizens. Go Obama, beat Clinton.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Craig, Los Angeles — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:18:20 GMT

Although never mentioned by her, Hillary's experience (in addition to all her other experience) by virtue of "pillow talk" with president Clinton for 8 years appears to render her more qualified to be in the CEO seat.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

B. BRINKERHOFF — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:18:47 GMT

WHY DOESN'T ANYONE ASK THE TOUGH QUESTIONS!
HOW WOULD THESE CANDIDATES HANDLE ANOTHER ATTACK ON U.S.PROPERTY? WHO WOULD BE IN THEIR CABINETS TO MAKE THESE TOUGH DECISIONS? WOULD THEY JUST BLOW OFF ANOTHER USS COLE ATTACK, YET AGAIN AS CLINTON DID? OR MAYBE MAYBE SEND A MISSLE INTO A TENT? OR WOULD THEY TALK TO THEM IN A SOOTHING WAY, SO AS NOT TO UPSET THEM TOO MUCH!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mark S, NC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:19:00 GMT

I just want to say if anyone is still reading these posts:

THANK YOU, CHUCK OF NY! Your honest and open plea for debate led to some of the most thoughtful, intelligent, and well-reasoned posts I have ever seen on this site. Folks, this kind of dialogue is what we need to have more of. I was frankly thinking of giving up First Read over the last couple of days, as the bile and knee-jerk idiocy was all that seemed to be posted.(Of course, there's still some of that even today--but the difference between the two types of argument has never been starker...ObamaRama I'm looking in your general direction.)

One more thing: Armando Santiago of Muskegon, MI, if you're reading this post, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do your job as a conscientious citizen and do some research before voting. Obama's father was a Muslim, but Obama was raised outside of any religious traditions by his white, agnostic mother. He then chose Christianity as his faith when he became an adult. He has talked extensively and movingly about this.

We need a more respectful political discourse in this country, which is one reason I'm pulling for Obama. But we also need an electorate willing to put in a little work and research the candidates. It's never been easier to do. So, please, Armando, if you've read this post and are actually open-minded and not on someone's payroll, consider putting just a little bit of time into your decision. Perhaps we can get a more engaged electorate one voter at a time.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marysia Miller — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:19:17 GMT

Good judgement moniker for Obama is gone after his long awaited admission of 'bad judgement' with reference to his Revko relationship and the series of denials over the past 2 years. Should he get a media pass?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Loren J Young, Salt Lake City,UT — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:19:19 GMT

Let's hope that we get an "O-MITT-uary very soon as a Romney presidency is very frightening to me. As a life long resident of Utah and a former Mormon, I can tell you what it is like to live in this theocracy. If you want to get an idea of what a Romney presidency would be like, just look at Utah. We are the highest consumers of anti-depressants, spend the least amount on per pupil on education and Have the fewest number of people per capita in the military. It's the Little red hen syndrome of wanting to eat the bread but doing nothing to help make it. Every time an issue comes up in the legislature, the call invariably comes from church headquarters to tell the sheep how to vote. Isn't it nice to know that there is no more poverty, homelessness or hunger in the world leaving the mormon church able to spend 1.5 BILLION on a shopping mall. These people are totally controlled in every aspect of life. Free thought is frowned upon. thier leaders have said "When the prophet (PROFIT) speaks, the thinking has already been done." There is no doubt where Mitty would get his marching orders. Even though it cost me my relationship with my family, I'm very grateful that I had the sense to get out of this cult and start thinking for myself. I can only hope that the Repubs will wake up before it is too late.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Daniel Macias, San Antonio, Texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:19:35 GMT

I like both Democratic candidates. But I have to admit, I'd prefer Clinton for pres. I like Obama, and I think he would be a great candidate in 4-8 years. In fact, I'd vote for him in 4-8 years. Some of his arrogance needs to be toned down. We've had enough arrogance over the past 7+ years. We need to give Hillary a chance, and see if she can live up to her words if not her image. Many conservatives do not want to admit that despite his "personal indescretions", Bill Clinton had the country in the right direction with a great economy and peace. I say don't punish Hillary for her husbands "vices".

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mrs. Loma Nevels, 105 N. Huron St., Wheeling, WV 26003 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:19:44 GMT

Clinton re-run(s) are not needed nor wanted. Obama is the most electable candidate. Oftentimes, on-the-job training is best. It is not about what you have done but what you can do. Obama will win and select a different vice-president running mate.

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Jeff, OR — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:19:56 GMT

Chuck,

For all the good things the Clinton administration accomplished (and there were many - a budget surplus, a stong economy, judicial moderation, strong U.S. standing in the world, etc.), they were achieved in an atmosphere of political polarization and a philosophy of "bringing 50% plus one along with us" (a situation abided and abetted by the Clintons), which meant that these accomplishments were ephemeral, as they lacked the support of an enduring majority. Sure enough, they all evaporated in short order after Bush was elected. I have no doubt that Hillary Clinton would be an effective president, but she is likely to govern with a similar philosophy as her husband - which may be her only choice, given her 40% negative approval ratings. This means that in eight years we would find ourselves in the same position we did in 2001 - losing all the hard-fought gains that had been achieved during her presidency. Obama offers the prospect of an enduring majority that includes independents and even some Republicans - so the gains he achieves will sustain long after he leaves office. That is why I am voting for him and why I think he is the best choice for our country.

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Mark KY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:11 GMT

Congratulations to CNN on their excellent production of a civil, informative and sustantive debate. It made me proud to be a Democrat and proud to be an American. Russert and Matthews should hang their heads in shame.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Jeff Reuteler, Grand Rapids, Michigan — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:13 GMT

I did not watch the debate and am tired of all the so called debating. I find nothing to be gained by these worthless ramblings where many candidates flip flop depending on the audience.

I consider myself an Independent. It bothers me deeply that anyone would even consider Hillary. Other then her breif carpetbagging stint as Senator to New York she has NO political expereince. I have been impressed with Obama and his restraint, there are many things that he could retliate against Clinton but has not done so.

My biggest regret thus far is the Democratic candidates all have some form of amnesty for illegals (path to citizenship). That in itself shows that the Dems are not informed on the topic. The only way to stem the tide of the flood of illegals is to turn off the magnet that attracts them to America. For the most part they have no interest in citizenship. Most are here for one reason only to make money. Another untruth is that these people somehow pay taxes. The only tax they pay is sales tax and perhaps a meager amount of income tax. Most claim multiple dependants that don't exist and then they do not file a tax return. Providing these law breakers assitance and free education only brings more.

I have not yet made up my mind as to who I might choose but I do know that I will not vote for Hillary. If she wins the democratic nomination I will then vote Republican. Hillary would be bad for America.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Heather Kraabel, St. Cloud, MN — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:20 GMT

I am 30 yrs old, white, married with four daughters. I support Barack Obama. Here's why: Only Obama can move us in a direction that is progressive for our country. Hillary Clinton is extremely intelligent and an obvious leader, but I don't trust her and I have a hard time watching her campaign because it seems very clear that they are more interested in winning than in improving the state of our country.
Everything is about her, "I" this and "I" that. When you hear Barack Obama speak, you feel like together we're going to put this country back together. Listening to him makes me want to get out there and run for city council or the school board or something. I've never experienced that before, a candidate that inspires me to get up and do something for my country. I know I'm not the only one who feels this way.
Anyone who can motivate citizens towards a positive change like that should be president. I don't get that with Hillary and I never hear that kind of passion in her supporters.
Barack Obama is RIGHT on day one.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Brenda Christian, Princeville, Il — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:27 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Meg — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:32 GMT

Obama is a not completed first term senator. He has to show what he can do as a senator before I give him my vote for the presidency. Oprah's invited to her show and all of the sudden he is presidential material? please ....

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

cage free brwon — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:20:35 GMT

the democratic party won the debate last night.
sure, Hillary's training wheels got a little wobbly on the Iraq question but she MORE than made up for it by talking straight and clear and (like Obama) not allowing the moderators to control the context of their answers.

I'm pretty much undecided but leaning Obama. I could flip a coin on Tuesday and not bust a sweat. this is the way I like to hear candidates for high office talk. can we have more debates like this, please?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:21:04 GMT

Obama doesn't have to beat Clinton in the debate. He just has to look like a viable alternative who could compete well for the general election. There's enough Democrats who sense a potential disaster if Clinton gets the nomination, that any reasonably strong alternative starts looking very attractive.

That said, the growing impression Obama won last night's debate outright is great.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Cathy - Atlanta, GA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:21:15 GMT

I am an almost sixty white female and I have always consistently voted republican. This year will change that if McCain is the republican candidate. We do not need more of the same government that we have been getting. It is time our candidates realize that although foreign policy is critical to our country, we the american people need the support of our government on the home front!

To this end, I will vote for Hilary Clinton if she is nominated. I sincerely hope she is. My reasoning is thus: (and it may seem prejudicial to some) Why are we all forgeting Obamas muslim roots? Romney's religion is in the debate. Why not Obamas? I fear for the security of our country if we elect one with ties to those who would seek to destroy us.

Cathy - Atlanta

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ro, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:21:52 GMT

I'm female, 49, white, and supporting Obama. I don't like HRC's mandates regarding health care. I don't like her for it and against it position on Iraq, or worse, Bush did an endrun on her. I believe Obama can pull some unity back to the nation and HRC would further divide it, hampered by her baggage. I like Obama's ability to hear the word "no." I appreciate his ability to be embraced by a wide variety of Americans.

The GOP has drifted from it's original core values of fiscal conservatism, small government, and strong Constitution and Bush is the evidence of this. There are many Reps that are disenchanted with their party and would welcome a hand across the aisle to stop gridlock and work bipartisan. Obama has approached elder statesmen, red and blue, to garner input regarding this matter. His current rapidly climbing poll numbers and tremendous donations from average Americans, not lobbyists, prove that we, the people, are hearing his message. I'm disheartened and exhausted by hate politics and division and I'm looking for an opportunity for Americans to pull together to form resolutions to the plethora of problems that we currently face. I believe that Obama best presents the path to that result. He will bring dignity and credibility back to our nation. I do not believe he is a saint or a panacea, just our best chance to take the first step on the right road.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mad in DE — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:22:16 GMT

WE NEED CHANGE.

That debate was horrible, none of them really change my opinion, but this is my take on Hillary and the jury is still out on Obama

The bottom line is Hillary is wishy washy on everything except health care. She voted for the war now she regrets after almost 4,000 solders killed, 30,000 or so injured 10,000 of them serious.
All we are going to get is the same old wrong decision that doesn’t and will not work but forced on the American people. Her health care plan is so flawed. It will be like car insurance everyone has to get it even if you can't afford it. If you are sick or have major medical issues you will be charged higher premiums. Our taxes will increase to pay for Medicare because the movement will be bankrupt over her plan. The rich will still get better treatment because they will just fly to countries that have better doctors or seek good doctors that want to make extra money. The stock market will tank because insurance companies will not be able to raise more cash to pay for loses and dividends to the investors. Hillary has no idea how to keep or grow jobs in America. Anyone that has had any kind of association with Wal-Mart in upper management or big corporate business needs to be ban from running for president. This country was built on small business, hard working people, good education and people of faith that truly wanted to do the right thing for the better of man kind. Everyone in this country deserves to share in the wealth of it. She is not for illegal aliens having drivers license. That’s shows me how incompetent of a president she would be. How would you know they are illegal if you don't have them come out in the opening? Oh I forgot she worked for Wal-Mart. She is in favor of cheep labor. Government should not be running our medical system. They should be passing laws to make it affordable, safe and trusting for all. Hillary stance will not solve our economical issues of the middle class with lower paying jobs. And forcing small business who can't afford to pay for it won’t work I want free health care just like every American in this country. I don't want it if I have to pay more taxes to get it and I don't know how government will be able to do a better job. We are talking millions and millions of people not to mention all the data we have to store. If you think the American school system is broken the medical system will be worst. The affluent neighborhoods will have the best hospitals and doctors and the worst neighborhoods will have the worst doctors and hospitals, case and point if you need a good lawyer you have to pay the price but if you can't afford one the governments appoints you one. Which lawyer do you want?

This is sad. The choices we have to pick from the 4 candidates that have the best chance of being president. I want a president who will make good judgment. Who will bring our enemies to the table to talk? Who will keep jobs in America, who will keep my taxes low, who will not keep funding a war that’s not working? We can't even defend oursleves effectively if one of the other super powers decided to attack us.

I want a president who will protect and serve the American people and be honest and more transparent. I want a president who will look me in the eye and not lie to me. I want a president who is humble and who is not stubborn. If his police are not working I want him to admit it and change course to do the right thing. I want a president who will make me and all of American people proud to be an American, proud to buy American and proud to look his or her neighbor in the eye and say we are a really bless country even if that person, is White, black, Hispanic, Asian or Indian.

Enough of division politics we need resolutions. I am leaning towards Obama.

We need a change. NO MORE BUSHES NO MORE CLINTONS and no more WARMONGARING republicans who don’t have a clue but just keep killing and stealing and lying in the name of religion.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Glory, ny, ny — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:22:32 GMT

I believe that both candidates are great but when I see Obama I think of Carter, somebody who is too nice to be in DC. He's already shown that he can't stand the heat by complaining about the unfair Clintons. Guess what? The republicans will do even worst for the general election!! At least the Clinton campaign has toned it down recently but the republicans won't be that nice. Hillary has proven that she can take the heat and give it back. For years she's been attacked by the right and in spite of that she's managed to win a senate seat and be a good senator. I think the Clintons are a little shady but that's what you need to get things done in Washington!! When Obama says he will bring change, how does he propose to change all the Senators and Reps who are Washington to the core?? It's a nice sentiment but nohings going to change!! Let's get real. To those who use Bill's cheating ways to put down Hillary: Come on people!!! Tell me you won't vote for her because of her record not because of that!!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Thomas Haire, New Jersey — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:22:38 GMT

The American people aren't interested in promises that sound good, they want to address the problems in the best way possible. Politicians are elected to spend our money as we direct them to, not the way they want. We pay them to help protect America and help makes things equal for all Americans. We must hold them accountable to their promises within a reasonable timeframe. Last night, Clinton and Obama fit right in with the actors!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Gerald, Mass — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:22:39 GMT

Chuck,

Both Candidates did well in last night's debate, although I thought Senator Obama emerged with a slight edge.

I saw the major issues this way:

* Health Care - Clinton Won marginally

* Economy - Obama Won marginally

* Iraq - Obama Won convincingly

Advantage: Obama

While this view could certainly be disputed, what was unmistakable was the amount of airtime given to Senator Clinton during the debate.

Wouldn't it be interesting to clock the amount of "On Stage" talk time for each Candidate, similar to Time of Possession in football? I believe the results would indicate a disproportionate allocation, favoring Clinton. The same seems to continue in post-debate reporting by the various networks. The slant has been somewhat amazing and in some cases, embarrassing.

Make no mistake, Senator Clinton IS a strong Candidate. But haven't the likes of the Clintons and Bushes had ample time to make their respective marks on history? Therefore, all of us, including the Media, must work harder to provide opportunities to entertain new ideas, new faces, and new approaches to solve age-old challenges.

Let's give the Senator Obama an even chance...

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Valerie Bird, La Quinta, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:22:49 GMT

Obama vs. Clinton – Who won?

To all the men and higher ups at GE, “Shame on you! I have been religiously watching your programming for quite some time now and need I say that your group is flagrantly biased against Hillary Clinton? It is not even transparent as it is overt and morally repugnant. I long for the older generation of news journalists like Brokaw and Gibson. You collectively bring dishonor to your profession and violate public trust by not posting the news with some semblance of impartiality and objectivity! (Let’s see if you have the guts to post my blog in the commentary section!)

Chuck Todd, “How can you possibly editorialize that Obama won?” It is incredulous given that 60% percent of those polled right after the debate stated that Hillary won? She had the best moment of the entire campaign when asked about the Clinton/Bush dynasty stating that, “It took one Clinton to clean up the mess that one Bush made and it may take another to clean up after the other Bush.” Are you re-running this clip and the uproarious response from the audience? Have you let your audience know that Hillary has had key endorsements from the other side of the Kennedy clan, the likes of Robert Kennedy Jr. who is wildly popular among progressive democrats and has done more than Old Teddy to create a better future for our children? Of course not… (Note: In case you have forgotten, the older generation has not forgotten the dark past of Old Teddy.) I think an endorsement by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the country’s foremost environmental advocate speaks to a wider audience touching both sides of the aisle, Republicans and Democrats alike. His endorsement of Hillary speaks volumes as this man has done more for our country than Ted Kennedy.

Instead, you have been having a love fest with Obama and playing up his endorsement from Ted and Caroline Kennedy. I have an idea, “Why doesn’t MSNBC just endorse Obama?”

The other night while watching the post analysis of the Florida primary I was shocked by the grotesque behavior of Chris Matthews, Keith Olberman and Joe Scarborough. Their remarks towards Hillary Clinton were unbelievable! I could not believe what I saw and heard! It is very clear that they and the higher ups at GE do not wish to see a woman in the oval office.

Well boys, let’s see of if your dishonorable tactics work! I think you are grossly underestimating and insulting the intelligence of your viewers.

Sincerely,

Valerie M. Bird
La Quinta, CA

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

John Rupert, NY, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:23:02 GMT

These two would lie cheat and indeed murder, to get elected. They and their debate is absurd. It is very easy to "hate" war it is another thing to have to fight one. Economically we talk about global marked, militarily we talk about nation building. I have a great deal of respect for our Military, and they are fighting to protect our culture and our way of life, whether they be deployed anywhere in the breeding grounds of radical Islamofascism. Ms. Clinton, Mr. Obama care nothing about our troops. They just feign concern to appeal to our sensitivity. I would be more interested in theirs. These two characters are reprehensible.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

ElleJai, Pasadena, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:23:22 GMT

NY, MY, Hillary "did not" win the debate and as far as MSNBC and the talking points, maybe YOU should be a little less biased "against" Obama. Hillary is as "etablishment" as any of her counterparts and that scares a lot of us. How many favors (special interest, PAC) will she have to give?

It was subtle last night but, she managed to place a wedge in the black/brown issues when she said that the Black Construction Worker lost his job because of illegal immigrants (still trying to pander to the hispanic vote away from Obama).

When stating MSNBC or GE must have some "senister" plot to push Obama is REDICULOUS - you are really reaching. If that were the case then, Dan Abrams obviously didn't get the memo (MSNBC)......

I am truly afraid that if Hilary R. Clinton gets the nomination, the USA will have another Republican president. We cannot afford to have another republican or "establishment" candidate. Let's get some NEW blood in the White House.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Barbara (South Carolina) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:23:59 GMT

Simply put, Hillary Clinton is polarizing. Despite her calm demeanor last night, she touts wanting to engage in a fight with the Republicans. She is immuned to the fact that the country is tired of all the fighting between the parties, with the American people being the real loser. In addition, if she is the Democratic nominee, the Republican will be the first to evoke Bill's scandalous past (Flowers, Lewinsky, and Jones) not mention White Water and Travelgate. Remember her appearance on NBC Today, following the news of Bill possilbe affair with Lewinsky? I do. She claimed it was the "Right wing Republican" out to get her husband. She stated it will so much authority and confidence. As it turned out, either she knew and was hoping to stop the inquiry in it's track or she didn't know that once again her husband was involved in an extramarital affair. I have to question her judgement. What's the point of having experience when your judgement is lacking? I will vote for Obama

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Sue (CT) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:24:07 GMT

Hillary Clinton won the debate hands down. She was able to spontaneously answer all questions without mulling over her answers first. I agree that I have disliked Ted Kennedy since he left Mary Jo Kopechne to drown at Chappaquidic, and then get off because of the Kennedy name. I would not vote for Obama...he came out of nowhere, and I don't need an inspriational speaker. I need someone who can get down to business on day one.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Kathy,Seattle,WA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:24:13 GMT

Race is such a big issue in America, eventhought everyone try to ignore this painful truth. It is just too risky and not worthy enough to elect someone that nobody can be confident about his knowledge, experience, and his nature. It is the election of president of America, we are talking about. We need someone with many qualifications not only good personalities and charisma. Woman's softness can be strength & benefit sometime. We are immigrant-American and we are afraid of our future in this country. The diffirences & fears build the war as we can see it happens around the world. We won't be surprise if civil war will happen again here in this too many problems and much of freedom land.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Marysia Miller, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:24:18 GMT

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Ron Brock, Houston, Texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:24:27 GMT

I am not impressed with the candidates from either side. I did not like Hillary's vote on the Iraq war and knew (as did the country)that it was a vote to go to war. What she cannot say is that the public wanted to go to war and bought into the administration's story hook, line and sinker. We know now they lied about almost everything and there has been no fall out whatsoever. When it was pointed out we were not sending enough troops that general was fired. We wanted revenge for 9/11 from somebody and the thought of an oil depot in the mid east appealed to many. Clinton cannot say that because that would blame the public so she is stuck. Obama seems bright and personable but I do not believe he has an in depth comprehension of how to change things and achieve his goals. He talks about bringing people together. I would like to see him sell that to Rush. I admire McCain personally very much but agree with him on almost nothing. Romney seems to believe he is running a corporation and I believe he probably should be. It seems to me that, once again, the democrats are trying to jerk defeat out of the jaws of victory.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Lety, Texas — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:25:14 GMT

I am absolutely a Hilary supporter. It's great to know that all the naysayers and deficient political commentators can only bring out petty, reasons why she shouldn't be President. On the other hand, Obama has not been around long enough, and look at all the news worthy information that the inept media has kept hidden in their archives. Go Hilary!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Tom, 3300 4th st. des moines,50313 — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:25:27 GMT

Did u guy know that Obama kept voting over and over to fund the war in Irag?

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Mike Tucson, AZ — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:25:34 GMT

Everyone (the newscasters and reporters, as well as the debate moderators) acts as if Hillary Clinton authorized the war and took us all into that horrible war. She did not. And most of the other 77 Senators who voted "yes" on the legislation did not. It was George Bush and his Administration. Period. We all need to give Hillary and the other senators some credit for voting what they believed was in the best interest for the country. However, let's not mistake that for authorizing the war. Also, Obama needs to tone down his "change" rhetoric. Yes, change for the Bush years is definitely necessary...but the Bill Clinton years were pretty darn good. Hillary will be a very good president.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Bob Jones San Francisco CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:25:40 GMT

Clinton looked presiodential and Obama like the vice presidential candidate. Clinton is roll-up-your lseeves knowledgeabole about the details. Obama is filled with vague inspirational platitudes. Hillary demonstrated that she has the knowlegde and experiernce to get the job done. Obama will meake a a good trainee, and perhaps a great candiciate in another 8 years. If the democrats nominate Obama they will lose the general election.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Linda Las Vegas NV — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:25:53 GMT

-Some other points that need to be thought about strongly before you cast your vote. When Hillary supported the war vote, which was really a resolution to send in inspectors, we had just been bombed in NYC by Terrorists and the country was terrified that we would have other incidents. President Bush and his minions took advantage of this and lied to the Senate, Congress and the American people that we were now also in danger of Sadam Hussein having nuclear weapons. How soon everyone forgets the patriotic spirit we all felt at the time. Actually the Politicians were made to feel like traitors to our country if they didn't support going in. But ONLY because they were LIED to. Hillary told us last time that as President that it never would have happened on her watch. So please put that vote in proper context and move on the facts of how the Clintons are highly respected across the world and what we need right now is diplomacy around the world. It will help us with Terriorists who want to hurt us to have the Worlds strongest countries behind us rather than hating us because of the current administrations bad handling of policy. The Prime Minister of India has come out in support of Hillary, he knows her he thinks highly of her, and you really have to think of this! WE NEED SOMEONE that can hit the ground running overseas and actually has a good repore with these leaders! Does anyone realize how important that is! Ted Kennedy and the rest can't help Obama with that! They know the Clintons and we need their help on this! Please think about this very important point. Have your new guy Obama, for some Cabinet Post but we need a tried and true leader this time out! Bush was green and lead by the nose by the Radical Right, we don't need a leader that might possibly be lead by the Radical Left, as we need someone that leads the whole country not just what our Democratic Party wants or it's not fair. We need to be fair this time to get Independants and Republicans to go with us down the new road. I find it interesting that Hillary stood up for no drivers license for Illegal Immigrants even though she supprts their rights. This is fair and balanced as she is also giving points to the Conservatives on this issue and tell the truth ALOT of Democrats don't like the Immigration Bill of our Party! Hillary is fair to all! Please give Hillary a chance and vote for someone that WE KNOW can do the job!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

wycliffe — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:02 GMT

the knock out punch was on the iraq war. Obama 08!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Rick, Harvest, Alabama — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:14 GMT

I am a Republican who embarassed by one of the worst Presidential administrations in history and in horror of the republican candidates with the exception of Huckabee -- who can not win -- will vote for a Democrat in this election.

I have made a careful study between Obama and Hilary. First experience, this is an over-rated factor if you look at the actual application to the job of President. The advantage to Hilary is negligable and may even be a liability to new thinking. The fact is no one is qualified to be President except an ex-President -- it's not a job you really can fully prepare for and neither of these two candidates has decades of experience on the real world stage like say someone like Colin Powell would. Second, Hilary has a devisive personality that is always ready to emerge under the slightest provacation. She would not be able to work in a bi-partisan manner which is the key to any progress. Her first instinct under fire is to attack with a viper-ish bent. She would not be able to form a coallition for progress. Third, I can not respect a person who has remained married to a serial adulterer for political expediency. If you trade away your self respect for such a reason you can not be trusted to stand fast when you must -- re. the Iraq vote. Fourth, Obama is an incredibly charismatic speaker who can energize this country and correct a world standing with his charm and demeanor after 8 years of Bush dragging our flag across the dirt from a world standing perspective. This ability is more than just for show. No matter his personal ethics John Kennedy's speeches still ring across history as a rallying cry for Americans and something to admire for other countries. So could Obama's speeches, yet to be. We need that kind of spritual renewal for this country. We need a voice to spark the imaginations of all young americans the way John did and light a fire under their collective butts that there is more to life then the next game platform from Japan. Last and most important - Hilary is unelectable. Anyone who underestimates the intense hatred for this woman of hard core Republicans, conservatives of both parties, the average all american male that gets the willies everytime you see that glint of angry bitterness in her eyes for all things testosterone and anyone connected with the military who see her as only slightly less repellent than Hanoi Jane simply can't understand the groundswell of votes that whoever runs against her will recieve. That groundswell won't be obvious until the votes start rolling in and then it will be too late. 'I could be wrong' as Monk would say, 'but I'm not'.

If you want a democratic President - you had best nominate anyone but Hilary and I believe Obama is the better candidate in any case. He's eloquent, likable, smart, charismatic, fair minded and with this debate showed he can sit at the big boy table and trade punches with a master politician.

He's got my vote.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

anne nitopi — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:21 GMT

Clinton won the debate between 2 really really good candidates

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Anne, Brooklyn, NY — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:35 GMT

I've been for Clinton, Edwards, Clinton again quite strongly after Iowa, and finally settled on Obama thanks to some very convincing arguments from Obama supporters and my own research.

I am an under-30 voter who is very passionate about politics, improving this country and creating a new Democratic majority for America. Obama is committed to the 50-state, all-voters, progressive grassroots strategy that I think is the future of the party. His tent is huge. It's not only the person, it's the process. And Obama's campaign has been run VERY differently from Clinton's. Think about how far he's gone when she's got so much name recognition and an ex-president on her side. That's democracy in action-- real voter mobilization. Contrast that to the Clintons' shady attempts to keep voters from voting in Nevada!! (which would have hurt them, anyway, it turned out.)

I'm voting for a "new deal" with Barack Obama. I too was against the war from the start, even though I started out the Bush term a Republican (!).

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Martha, Chino Hills, CA — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:36 GMT

I was so pleased by this debate. It really gave me hope that, for the first time in my life, I feel like we have a choice that is better and more difficult than we have ever had. No more "lesser of two evils" or settling for the best of a mediocre field. These are two stellar candidates and either one will beat McCain or Romney like a drum in the general election. My personal wish, however, is to see this same setting with Obama and McCain... what a contrast in ideology... the hopeful future contrasted with the embittered past. Just close your eyes and imagine it for a minute. You'll see what I mean.

This debate, however, was a draw for me. Both candidates made strong points and were able to define the slight differences in how they'd execute on some important plans.

I think Clinton's approach is more pragmatic, which sometimes gets in the way of idealism. Conversely, however, I believe that Obama's idealism will not interfere with an overall pragmatic execution of initiatives. For example, we do need some BHAGS (Big, Hairy, Audacious Goals) when it comes to problems like getting out of Iraq. Let's set the target, make a plan and make progress. It's going to take all of us, both sides of the aisle to move these things forward.

Therefore, I think Obama's leadership and proven ability to achieve consensus will be the determining factor for me. I think Clinton can do it, but probably not as quickly or as effectively as Obama.

Also, it's going to take more than a clever quip to overcome the perception that many of us have that the Bush/Clinton/Bush/Clinton thing has a dynastic tone to it. I struggle with this, because Hillary has her own strong merits and I feel she is almost being "punished" because she's a Clinton. But, there's not arguing that this may be an issue for a good many folks in a general election.

Finally, I have two sons, one 25 and the other 24, one active duty military and another veteran. They are really excited and talking actively with their friends about Obama. He's getting them engaged in a way they've never been before. I see that phenomenon all around me with the younger people in my workplace (which is located in a very Republican area). It's very exciting to me.

No matter what, either of these extraordinary candidates can count on my support and my vote in the General Election!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Donna DC — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:37 GMT

The media and Obama is running you Obama fans like a bunch of cows with no sense. Dont let them lead you into another 911! The media does not care. They will do anything to make the race close for a story! Stop listening to the media and look at the politician's records. Then place your bet on Hillary. It would surprise me if this post even made it.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Chris Henrickson, Palm Bay, FL — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:41 GMT

The Democratic presidential candidate .. hmmm.. a woman? OMG! A black man? OMG!!
Either would be such a change for this country, and both have much to offer.
Clinton has 8 years of experience with the White House responsibilities and diplomatic protocols, and several years as a US Senator.
Obama has charisma and several years as a US Senator.
I think Hillary is the better choice, simply from experience. She has been involved in government at all levels for decades, and it really is time the US came into the 21st century and put a woman in the presidency. Clinton is a good candidate.
By the way, The Florida primary was held Tuesday Jan 29, 2008.
Both the Democratic and Republican parties warned the state of Florida Supervisor of Elections, that if the primaries were held outside the normal primary date, the election results would be ignored.
Florida held the primaries anyway... just to push through a tax ammendment.
The Democrats held to their word - the delegates were NOT awarded to the candidates.
The Republican party, however, bent a bit and awarded 1/2 of the delegates to the candidates.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

norm, st. louis, MO — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:26:42 GMT

Chuck: Good framing. Here's my two cents worth.

Obama is better suited to be president because he comes with lots of positives, and none of Hillary's negatives. Both are intelligent and capable. But he simply by being part of the new generation of leaders will have better opportunities to reach out and heal the country. His very diverse personal background (white mom, black dad, half-Asian sister, Chinese Canadian brother-in-law) and his consistent position on Iraq, and his refusal to be drawn into the zenophobic Mexican immigrant demagoguery will signal other nations that a new era may be dawning in American foreign policy. The experience question is nonsense. His career is almost identically parallel to Abraham Lincoln's at the time of Lincoln's election. Would anyone argue that Lincoln was not qualified by experience to become president.

Obama has what it takes to lead the nation. What it takes to lead is leadership---that ability to convince people to follow, to inspire them to believe, to give them reason to hope. Hillary is very competent and would certainly be a good president and so much better than what we have now. But Barack is a phenomenon that we cannot afford to ignore. Reagan won the allegiance of America's young generation of his time and made them Republicans. Bush has lost the young generation of today and Obama has inspired them and mobilized them. As president he will do the same for all of us, including some Republicans and most independents.

Obama can beat the G.O.P. nominee because he is, as I said, a phenom with inspirational qualities. I believe Hillary could certainly beat Romney, and possibly McCain depending on circumstances as they develop. But she is polarizing outside the Democratic Party, and with Bill being undisciplined she is beginning to be polarizing within the party. The only thing that can galvanize the Republicans and make them rebound from the devastating Bush funk is having Hillary to hate. Many independents will also rebel at the thought of the Clinton dynasty with the spectre of Bill calling the shots from behind a curtain. The Kazakstan scandal will begin to bubble now and will not help Hillary. On Iraq, Obama is a clear choice against McCain who is a warmed over Republican war monger. Obama's youth is also in stark contrast to McCain's age. Reagan's famous debate joke aside, he was too old for his second term as events bore out. McCain is too old for the presidency and Obama's relative youth and energy will make it apparent without saying a word about it.

Now for the bottom line. I am white, but I feel it is time for a black president who is emminently qualified by intelligence, temprament, and skill and ability to lead this nation into a post-racial era. And I beleive that most Americans are ready for that.

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Rose,Hartford,connecticut — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:27:08 GMT

I agree with Linda Brown comment, I am tired of hearing from the media and people about Bill Clinton infidelity with Hillary. It does not has to do what so ever about her qualifications of her becoming a great president. I am going to vote for Hillary because she is intelligent,determine, strong,and compassionate for the working families. She will get us out of this Bush's enormous mess!

First thoughts: Did Iraq tip debate?

Bill, Gig Harbor — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:27:12 GMT

My network is ABC - ANYONE BUT CLINTON

You muddle-headed Clintonites thinks she's ready to be Queen, and you are in rapture over Bubba still. Me, no more, thanks to Marc Rich, the Lincoln bedroom, blue dress, lying to Congress on national tv, etc., ad infinitum, ad nauseum.

Yes, the BUSH cabal is more evil, but only slightly so. The Clintons are narcissists who will do anything to be in power - proof positive is Bill just aching to be back 'in charge'.

I wish we could have the best of both parties - McCain for his experience, and I mean real experience, not as vice-spouse or a carpet-bagger like Hillary, combined with Barack for his optimism and vision!