First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

jaycee, Ventura, California — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:35:36 GMT

With McCain as the nominee the battle in November will more than ever be fought over Independents and moderates in the other party. Which of our two choices among Democrats stands the best chance to win this sort of fight? Hillary claims that she is drawing the voters that would be needed to beat McCain -- like women, Latinos and those making less than $50,000 -- and that that she had "every confidence that we will win back the voters that Sen. Obama has been attracting." I’m afraid she’s wrong on both counts. While her base of support may be enough of her own party to win the nomination, it is far from enough of the electorate as a whole to beat McCain in November.

Once you get outside her core Democrat constituency, the picture for Hillary looks pretty grim. The hatchet job the Republicans have done on the Clintons over the years has been effective in building up an almost irrational animosity toward both Clintons among Independents and Republicans alike. Many Republicans will be disappointed in their party’s choice of McCain and might either stay home or consider Barack, but they will crawl over broken glass to vote against the Clintons.

More than half of Obama supporters are loyal Democrats who will vote the party ticket whoever wins the nomination. It’s the other voters gravitating toward Obama that are crucial to the future of the party and our prospects for winning in November. These include young and Independent voters who have never developed party loyalty or have lost interest in the hyper-partisan politics that Hillary represents.

If Obama loses the nomination now, the letdown for these fired-up supporters will inevitably cause turnout to sag for Democrats and will even switch many Independent votes to McCain. If instead we can add them to the current pool of core Democrats and build party loyalty in the process, we will be unstoppable. To that end, it would be a really good idea for some of my fellow Obama backers to stop insulting Hillary’s people and start treating them with the respect due to fellow Democrats and future allies. Make your arguments, but let’s be civil about it. It’s what your candidate would ask you to do.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Scott, California — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:37:27 GMT

I thought Senator Clinton was ready to lead on Day 1. Isn't one of the most important (though admittedly behind the scenes) aspects of leadership involve picking good people to be your right hand women/men?

We're only half way through the primary process and already she's blowing up her organization. Message to Senator Clinton: it's not them, it's you.

And, as far as people continuing to talk about "Barack only wins because of the black vote," um...you don't get more lily-white than Washington State, Nebraska, and Maine. And, those weren't even CLOSE.

Finally, I hope we don't hear any whining this morning about "caucuses" (wah, wah, wah, caucuses are stacked against her, etc, etc, etc).

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Justin Kelly, Topeka,Kansas — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:38:50 GMT

Obama is a mistake,he's not ready to be President.The American public,is just plain "stupid". But it's not over, by a long shot.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Dave, TN — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:38:59 GMT

Pack your bags hillary, you are finished. the obama train is going to run its way to the nomination and then you dems will wake up and realize that nominating someone who represents less than 6% of America (black males) or even less (black males not in prison or heading there) is hardly a winning coalition for the rest of us.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Pat, Boston, MA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:39:38 GMT

As far as delegates are concerned, I keep hearing that as of today, Senator Clinton has a good chance to "win" Ohio, PA and Texas. What exactly do the pundits mean by "win"?

Don't both Senators Obama and Clinton divide up the delegates as opposed to winner takes all?

How do we figure out how many delegates each candidate will receive in these states?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Wombat — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:44:41 GMT

FR --> Suddenly, every media outlet is discovering who the Democratic superdelegates are.

Democrats put Superdelgates in place because they realized their voters may be too stupid to pick the right candidate. On top of that, Democrats have complained about voter disenfranchisement for years. Superdelgates are the ultimate form of voter disenfranchisement.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

AP from IL — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:46:29 GMT

In the wake of his amazing and large margin victories this weekend, I can't imagine a more positive development for Obama than to have Bush single him out for attack. What a great way to emphasize the stark difference between where we've been and where we intend to go.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

sotiredofignorance — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:51:32 GMT

Bush's comments about Obama are enough of a reason to elect him. Speaking of not being worthy? The man who has destroyed this nation's standing in the world, raised the deficit to heights that are unthinkable, and is making every attempt to shred the Constitutional protections that every citizen has a right to expect?

Shrubbie, you ought to be ashamed...but that would require insight.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Alan, Caldwell, NJ — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:52:08 GMT

Why doesn't BO's comment that he would preemptively bomb Pakistan get the same level of discussion as his speech that he was opposed to the Iraq war from the start? Both were made with no thought to the consequences. Maybe he thinks that bombing Pakistan would be a smart war instead of a dumb one.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

MK,MO — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:53:41 GMT

anyone that thinks the clintons intend to help anyone but the wealthy is just being silly, the clintons are part of the old washington elitist establishment, bill clinton signed nafta into law knowing full well it would destroy the middle class and eliminate jobs that provided fair wages and benefits, he sold out to the same lobbyist machine that hillary has sold out to, to think that a hillary administration would be any different than the bush administration is ridiculous, bush and clinton are owned by the same entities, always have been

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester NY — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:54:20 GMT

MSNBC, and First Read have shamelessly slanted the news and cheer-led for Barrack Obama throughout the Primary Cycle.
I believe its' because they know a Hillary vs. McCain Presidential election would be a boring Hillary run-away win, while Obama vs.McCain would provide drama and a close margin of victory, probably for McCain.
They also know that it will provide sub-plots such as The McCain Democrats, who will give the election to a Republican before they would vote for someone as unproven, and as extremeist as Obama.
People in the Democratic Party apparently haven't learned yet, that extremism and lack of Patriotism NEVER win. I honestly hope it doesn't take another general election beating to try and teach it to them once again.
But, I fear that with all this "Obamania", that's exactly what's going to happen.
For the sake of our party and for the sake of our Country, we can only hope the people of Texas, Pennsylvania, and Ohio vote for Hillary when their primaries come up. This election is so important. The Democratic party could establish itself as the party of the people once again.
It would be a shame to force people like myself to become McCain Democrats.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

mkb, Vienna, VA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:55:48 GMT

And what exactly did Bush do to "earn" it? I'd say that Obama's years of service make him much more worthy than Bush's years of trading on Poppy's connections.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Ariel,Jupiter Fl — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:57:14 GMT

Bill Clinton addressed blue collar workers in Virginia as though they are Hillary's natural constituency.In Bill's words, "Give me a break".The Clintons cannot credibly address blue-collar concerns while simultaneously refusing to release their income tax returns.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Terry, Burlington, VT — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:58:18 GMT

Gee, I guess you guys don't skew things toward Obama...

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

DJ — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:58:21 GMT

Yes, Obama is riding high on his wins. Maybe that is because we don't know much about him and haven't bothered to check out his background. His speeches don't tell us much about him and his ideals or what he could do for us and out country. He says he is a uniter and that we should all come together but his past does not say he really is strong on this topic.

Tucker Carlson of MSNBC has called Pastor Wright a total hater and wondered why the ties that bind Obama to Wright have not been given greater scrutiny. Mickey Kaus of Slate has also wondered when the ties between Obama and Wright will receive more criticism, given Wright's seeming bigotry, which is in contrast to the soothing melody of unity that Obama has trumpeted on the campaign trail.

Some in the media have taken notice. The New York Times did have one front-page article on Wright by Jodi Kantor in which Wright was quoted as saying that should more information come to light about himself, "a lot of his Jewish support will dry up quicker than a snowball in hell". After the article came out Wright attacked Jodi Kantor, referring to her Jewish heritage in a way that might create discomfort.

This fear is why Pastor Wright was disinvited at the last minute from appearing with Obama when Obama announced his run for the Presidency. Wright admitted in a PBS interview that he understands this distancing from the Obama campaign since "he can't afford the Jewish support to wane or start questioning his allegiance to the Israel"

Wright has been disappeared by the campaign; Obama has replaced him with high profile white ministers who do not preach the racial exclusiveness and racial superiority that is a hallmark of Jeremiah Wright; however, they seem to share an anti-Israel bias.

Fortunately, bloggers and others have started to note the views of Pastor Wright (which also include an unhealthy does of racial exclusiveness, in Tucker Carlson's words) and . Finally these views may be crossing over to major media outlets. Washington Post columnist Richard Cohen published a recent column that criticized the award to Louis Farrakhan of the Reverend Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. Trumpeter Award -- an award that supposedly was granted to a man who "truly epitomized greatness". As Cohen noted, Farrakhan is not only a race-baiter but also an anti-Semite and a promoter of anti-Semitism. He falsely accused Jews of cooperating with Hitler and helping him create the Third Reich, has slandered Jews by his insistence that Jews have played an inordinate role in victimizing African-Americans (he has also called Jews "bloodsuckers"). Cohen questions why Obama has stayed steadfast in his allegiance to Pastor Wright over the years.

Obama has called Wright his spiritual mentor, his moral compass and his sounding board. He was the man who gave Obama the term, "The Audacity of Hope" after all. He was also the man who told Obama that there are more black men in prison then in colleges -- a statement that Obama parroted until he was told that it was false. What other "facts" has Wright taught Obama? Has he taught Obama to blame 9/11 on America because of our foreign policy?

The above is from an article by Ed Lasky and can be viewed at:

http://www.americanthinker.com/2008/01/barack_obama_and_israel.html

MSNBC has not covered much of his history as they prefer to just act like he is a gift from God. I for one wonder why there is never anything not pro Obama and they just seem to thrive on bashing the Clintons. They know about his history and choose not to tell anything real about him. Remember people that MSNBC is really republican donimated and they promoted Bush so what does that say about them? They really want Obama so they can get McCain elected to office.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Gary Schear, Bozeman Montana — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:59:31 GMT

Senator Clinton receives an endorsement from Bush. How nice.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

JohnnyU, WA State — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:00:03 GMT

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Enrique, Chicago — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:01:20 GMT

Bush doesn't believe that Obama deserves to win the presidency. Let's think about this for a moment. This is the same president who believed (or made us believe) that Iraq was linked to the 9/11. He's the same president who involved our country in a disasterous war, while Osama bin Laden is still at large.

I'd say George W. Bush doesn't have any credibility. Thanks for your thoughts on this race George, but they really don't matter.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Nashville_fan — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:02:22 GMT

"Talking to folks who know Bush well say he just doesn't believe Obama's earned it; that he's worthy. He has a lot more respect for Clinton and apparently would be more comfortable seeing her or McCain as his heir than Obama. "
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
The irony that a President who basically inherited the White House would question whether Senator Obama has "earned" the right to run for President is HYSTERICAL! What has George Bush earned on his own merits EVER?

News flash to political insiders: This time it's about US instead of YOU. Get used to it.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Jesse, Fallon NV — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:03:25 GMT

Irony or fate? Seems Bill is dooming HRC to another round of humilating embarrassment. She should bow out now, and avoid any further humilation. Maybe she can take on Harry for Senate Majority Leader. She's enough of a bulldog to be effective in that role. It might not look bad to have Hillary and Nancy leading up the two bodies of Congress.

I think President Obama would work nicely with those two in that role.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

New Independent — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:03:35 GMT

This is the first I've heard about superdelegates and frankly, I can't believe it. We have the nerve to tell other countries how to vote? Between superdelegates, electoral college, and the Supreme Court telling us who should be president, over the popular vote, I am beginning to wonder if our votes even count. I also resent that if you are listed as an independent in many states you are unable to vote for a candidate until the parties pick them. Everyone should be allowed to vote in the primaries no matter what your party is. This country really needs a lot of changes starting with getting rid of superdelegates. What a joke!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Dirk, Brunswick, Georgia — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:06:32 GMT

MSNBC is a pro-Obama network. Obama has a whole network promoting him and tearing down Hillary! Chuck Todd is egregiously pro-Obama, so was David Schuster.

And just who is Obama anyway? His campaign is about his campaign...quick, name one single thing that Obama has accomplished, aside from running for President....name one. All sooooaaaarrrring rhetoric, but no beef.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

chuck, richmond — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:13:06 GMT

Obama hasn't earned it? This from the man who's been given everything in his life and never earned anything? He was given 1 company after another, given a governorship in a red state and given a presidency b/c his name was Bush and he was from Texas. He's never earned 1 thing in his life and he's criticizing someone else for the same? What a joke!

This is all about him wanting the Republicans to face Hillary. He's so transparent!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

ge`pa`~ — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:13:56 GMT

I personally would not want any testimonial from George W. Bush. If I were Hillary or McCain, I would say thanks alot--BUT NO THANKS!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

bc Indiana — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:15:11 GMT

Bush weighing in on Obama shows desperation on the part of Republicans.

Hillary changing managers shows her campaign is sweating - big time.

And the pressure that Obama and McCain have put on the two parties is good. Never did these two parties deserve to be bitch slapped more than now.

Independent voters are having an effect.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Ron, TX — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:20:23 GMT

Will the Clintons ever abandon the corrupt establishment?
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/who-is-maggie-williams_b_85909.html
Chung ended up visiting the White House 51 times, many of these visits taking place after the National Security Council had described him as a "hustler" who should be treated with "suspicion." But to hear Maggie Williams tell it, Johnny Chung was a poor, innocent waif, a sort of diamond in the rough, an Eliza Doolittle grossly in need of expert counseling in the finer points of fund-raising etiquette from Mrs. Clinton's staff -- who, after all, are responsible for the social niceties at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. "A prime example of his ... misguided behavior," Williams testified, "was his persistent request to give money directly to Mrs. Clinton. On more than one occasion, I told Mr. Chung this was not possible, although his offer was much appreciated."

At the same time, Williams' aide, Evan Ryan, was telling Chung -- according to both Chung and Ryan -- that the DNC owed the White House $80,000 for a Christmas party and that any contribution would help pay off the debt. So it's no wonder that despite his charming cluelessness about fund-raising protocol, Chung was pretty clued in to how the White House worked: "The White House is like a subway -- you have to put in coins to open the gates."

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Shirley Victor, San Jose, CA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:21:35 GMT

The super delegate system must be discarded. The election should not be about favors and no one person or group of persons should have the ability to elect a canidate when the race is close.

Please we need some momentum for this issue and reporters and newspapers can provide it.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

MG, St. Louis, Mo. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:24:07 GMT

Isn't the Clinton strategy of waiting for the Ohio and Texas primaries a lot like the Guiliani strategy of waiting for the Florida primary and loosing out on all the momentium?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Richard Olson, Falmouth, Maine — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:25:33 GMT

The Maine results, probably like other caucus states, grossly understate Obama's support.

While Obama's official results in Maine were impressive, showing him with roughly a 60-40 split, that split is a derrivative based on the number of State Convention delegates allocated to various towns and precints.

Thus 700 caucusing democrats in Falmouth, Maine get 35 delegates (25 for Obama) and 90 caucusing democrate in Madison get 11 delegates (8 for Clinton). So much for proportionality.

The party has not published all the numbers, but my guess is that the actual caucus goers for Obama wildly exceed the actual level of support among attending democrats.

I caucused in Falmouth and we had 700 people turn out for a democratic caucus on a Snowy Sunday in a town that get about 2000 people to vote in municipal elections.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:25:58 GMT

If Obama wins Ohio and Pennsylvania HE WILL WIN THE NOMINATION

But, he has to prove he can win the big states
Hopefully, his campaign knows this and will out extra effort into these two big states

He HSA TO FOCUS ON POCKET BOOK ISSUES
Social Security, Health Insurnace, Taxes, Education

Barack's HAS a Social Security plan to eliminate the $97K limit on taxes. This will save Social Security
Us TV ads to emphasise this

On Health care, Hillary is getting BIG CONTRIBUTIONS for Insurance and Pahrmaceutical corporations
PUT HTAT IN AN AD, and contrast your plan

Roll back the Bush tax give-aways to the rich

Time is running out

OBAMA '08

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Independent in CA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:26:09 GMT

I think the polls may be a little high - who puts these things together anyway?

Obama did well this weekend - but he is still the underdog and would do well to set expectations low. Of course he will win Hawaii!

Why is pat Buchanan still insisting that Obama is only getting 25% of the white vote - that was way back in SC before he won Washington, Idaho, Nebraska and Maine...can someone give him the totals from these other mostly white states so he can report this weeks news please?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Martin — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:27:03 GMT

Edwards constantly called Cinton the "status quo", aligning himself with Obama. WHO he endorses will be very revealing.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:27:29 GMT

'...Yes, the New York senator who appeared on the
cover of Fortune magazine as Big Business's
favorite candidate...'

'...McClatchy Newspapers reported this week: that
Clinton spent most of her career at a law firm "where
she represented big companies and served on corporate
boards," including Wal-Mart's...'

From the SF Chronicle

'...David Sirota

The Democrats' Class War

For all the hype about generational and gender wars in
the 2008 Democratic presidential primary, we have a
class war on our hands. And incredibly, corporate
America's preferred candidate is winning the poorer
"us" versus the wealthier "them" — a potentially
decisive trend with the contest now moving to
working-class bastions like Ohio and Pennsylvania.

In most states, polls show Hillary Clinton is beating
Barack Obama among voters making $50,000 a year or
less — many of whom say the economy is their top
concern. Yes, the New York senator who appeared on the
cover of Fortune magazine as Big Business's candidate
is winning economically insecure, lower-income
communities over the Illinois senator who grew up as
an organizer helping those communities combat
unemployment. This absurd phenomenon is a product of
both message and bias.

Obama has let Clinton characterize the 1990s as a
nirvana, rather than a time that sowed the seeds of
our current troubles. He barely criticizes the Clinton
administration for championing job-killing trade
agreements. He does not question that same
administration's role in deregulating the financial
industry and thereby intensifying today's boom-bust
catastrophes. And he rarely points out what McClatchy
Newspapers reported this week: that Clinton spent most
of her career at a law firm "where she represented big
companies and served on corporate boards," including
Wal-Mart's.

Obama hasn't touched any of this for two reasons.

First, his campaign relies on corporate donations.
Though Obama certainly is less industry-owned than
Clinton, the Washington Post noted last spring that he
was the top recipient of Wall Street contributions.
That cash is hush money, contingent on candidates
silencing their populist rhetoric.

But while this pressure to keep quiet affects all
politicians, it is especially intense against black
leaders.

"If Obama started talking like John Edwards and tapped
into working-class, blue-collar proletarian rage,
suddenly all of those white voters who are viewing him
within the lens of transcendence would start seeing
him differently," says Charles Ellison of the
University of Denver's Center for African American
Policy.

That's because once Obama parroted Edwards' attacks on
greed and inequality, he would "be stigmatized as a
candidate mobilizing race," says Manning Marable, a
Columbia University history professor.
That is, the media would immediately portray him as
another Jesse Jackson — a figure whose progressivism
has been (unfairly) depicted as racial politics
anathema to white swing voters.

Remember, this is always how power-challenging
African-Americans are marginalized. The establishment
cites a black leader's race- and class-unifying
populism as supposed proof of his or her radical,
race-centric views. An extreme example of this came
from the FBI, which labeled Martin Luther King Jr.
"the most dangerous man in America" for talking about
poverty. More typical is the attitude exemplified by
Joe Klein's 2006 Time magazine column. He called
progressive Rep. John Conyers, D-Mich., "an African
American of a certain age and ideology, easily
stereotyped" and "one of the ancient band of
left-liberals who grew up in the angry hothouse of
inner-city, racial-preference politics."

The Clintons are only too happy to navigate this ugly
cultural topography. After a rare Obama attack on
Hillary Clinton for supporting policies that
eliminated jobs, Bill Clinton quickly likened Obama's
campaign to Jackson's, and the Clinton campaign told
the Associated Press Obama was "the black candidate."
These were deliberate statements telling Obama that if
he talks about class, they'll talk about race.

And so, as Marable says, Obama's pitch includes "no
mention of the class struggle or class conflict." It
is "hope" instead of an economic case, bromide instead
of critique. The result is an oxymoronic dynamic.

Obama, the person who fought blue-collar joblessness
in the shadows of shuttered factories, is winning
wealthy enclaves. But Clinton, the person whose
globalization policies helped shutter those factories,
is winning blue-collar strongholds.

Obama, who was schooled by the same organizing
networks as Cesar Chavez, is being endorsed by hedge
fund managers. But Clinton, business's favorite, is
being endorsed by the United Farm Workers — the union
that Chavez created.

Obama, the candidate from Chicago's impoverished South
Side, is finding support on Connecticut's gilded south
coast. But Hillary Clinton, the candidate representing
Big Money, is finding support from those with
relatively little money.

As the campaign heads to the struggling Rust Belt
under banners promising "change," this bizarre class
war may end up guaranteeing no real transformation at
all.

His blog is at www.credoaction.com/sirota...'

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

jerry/corpus christi texas — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:27:54 GMT

My God!!!!!!!!!!!
Hillary Clinton is coming to Corpus Christi on Wednesday!!!!!!!!!!

What can she talk about????

The economy?

With houses continuing to go up on the southside and houses selling like wildfire around town and a lot more people coming from real estate disasters like California, she can't talk about that. Plus, plenty of jobs in the $20-$25 an hour range, so she can't talk about the economy going bad here. With her tax plans and her plans to garnish the wages of hard working Americans, one would have to wonder why she would go and talk about the economy when it is doing so well here.

War in Iraq.
We just ran off that church in Kansas that was planning to celebrate the deaths of three military members that were killed in a chopper crash about a month ago. 5000 people were at the gates of the base waiting for these morons and they decided "Nah, not today" and ran back to Kansas with their tails between the legs. A few college students probably had too much beer and came to protest the war in Iraq and nearly dug their own graves, so that is not a issue Hillary wants to discuss. We support our Military, unlike California, which could care less about the military or that goober in Ohio who doesn't want the marines in his town. Bring them all here, we love our military. Hillary better watch herself when she starts talking about the military here.

Universal healthcare
We have a lot of medical facilities here in Corpus, so what she says she better hope she doesn't screw it up for all the people who have good paying jobs and good benefits from working in the healthcare field here.

Hillary is supposed to be at Whataburger field at noon. If the Hooks start losing games at home, at least we can blame her for the hooks not winning the Texas league title.

The big question is: Will I be attending?

Nope

I've heard enough long winded people flapping their gums lately....
Plus there is a 40% chance of rain in the forecast.

Whataburger field seats 8,0000
The will probably get about 300 people for the rally.

Obama's people have asked about the availability of either American bank Center (seats 16,000) or Concrete St. arena (seats 20,000). They should fill those buildings up pretty good.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Cory, Mok'po South Korea — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:29:56 GMT

Personally I feel the shakeup in the Clinton camp will prove to hurt her in the end. She has already been perceived as faltering when she loaned herself 5 mil. Then the sweeps over the weekend, with more on the horizon. Now this. Every blog and story I read is casting her in a downward spiral. The majority of comments to the blogs and stories I read show a growing belief that her campaign is over. (even though the cut off would seem to be her loss on March 4)

If Obama wins the media cycle tomorrow and the following days it might just be enough to put a death nail in her campaign.

At least I hope.

The other option is a decision by the super delegates, or (god forbid) the reinstating of Michigan and Florida. Both would cause a rift the size of the Latino vote.

Here is hoping Obama pulls it out AND lives up to the Hype

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Rampage07 — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:30:18 GMT

Speaking of a rebuke to the 2 party system wouldnt a McCain/Obama Ticket be the ultimate anti-party ticket? It would be the best of both worlds I would vote for that!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

J, OH — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:30:18 GMT

"Talking to folks who know Bush well say he just doesn't believe Obama's earned it; that he's worthy. He has a lot more respect for Clinton and apparently would be more comfortable seeing her or McCain as his heir than Obama."

That's even more reason to vote for Obama, and just goes to show that Clinton is just more of the same Washington politics we've had for years.

Typical hypocrisy of Bush as well, considering he had only FOUR years as Governor of Texas before becoming President, and road the coat tails of his father's name into the White House.
Facts:
Elected Position Experience:
George Bush - 4 years (Governor of Texas)
Hillary Clinton - 7 years (US Senate)
Barack Obama - 11 years (8 years Illnois Senate, 3 years US Senate)

Barack Obama has as much experience in elected positions as Clinton and Bush combined.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Pat, Louisville, KY — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:30:56 GMT

I fail to see how Obama and Huckabee are associated with a movement against "the party structures." All the candidates should be looking at that. Hillary, in particular, went against party rules in Michigan to have her name on the ballot - the only one. All the other Democratic candidates then followed suit in Florida. It's interesting that we only want to hear that the underdogs are against the establishment. Hillary has said from the beginning that she will fight to get all the votes to count in the Michigan and Flordia primaries. It is time for an overhaul of the DNC and the RNC. How come we can't just have one primary day, anyway? How did these parties become so powerful?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

marco rosales virgini beach va — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:32:23 GMT

I don't think senator Obama has anything to worry about what president Bush has to say about him. after 8 years in the white house he has nothing to show for except an unpopular war, a weak economy and the worst presidential approval ever.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Louise Rego Park, NY — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:32:55 GMT

If Obama gets the Democratic nomination I will not cast a vote for President. I will vote for all other races.
Obama needs more seasoning and world experience. His battle cry is "change, change, change". How will he do it? What will he do? Does he think everyone is going to just sit down and make nice? If he does he is a naive fool.
I wonder how many other Democratic voters will not cast a vote for President if he is nominated and let the Republican win by default?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Steve Turner Cedar Falls Iowa — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:34:17 GMT

Are the two Parties dead? Probably not until they use up all the Stationery with their letterheads. Have they lost their identities? Let's just say that after Dubya and the Congress dumped all over America, the Parties' identities have become 'conjoined. Six of one, half a dozen of the other. From now on, it's just a fishing expedition.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:35:42 GMT

'.... He has a lot more respect for Clinton and apparently would be more comfortable seeing her or McCain as his heir than Obama....'

Both Clinton and McCain are PRO-WAR
Both would try to 'vindicate' the Iraq War
(at what cost in lives) and somehow vindicate George Bush's 'FAILED PRESIDENCY'

Having 'respect' for Clinton is telling

15 years of dishonesty, lies, scandals, cover ups, divisiveness and dirty politics

Bush/Clinton/Bush
Give it a rest....

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Gnostic mastery Florence, Colorado — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:35:45 GMT

So let it be written: Hillary will be the next president: Obama will push her to the presidency. Obama and the media have been pushing for a racial divide which will at the end will favor Hillary.
McCain and Lieberman will be placed in the forgotten list.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

SadStateOfAffairs — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:36:38 GMT

Of course Obama will sweep the next series. We are looking at predomitaly African-American states. With 9 out of 10 African-Americans voting for Obama it's a no brainer. But, isn't that 9 out of 10 statistic disturbing to anyone? Does that not look like reverse racism to anyone? Everyone dances around Obama's record for fear of looking racist. And that prevents everyone from questioning his record. Or lack thereof. I for one want to know everything I can about this guy! Good, Bad or Indifferent. The public is not getting this information which creates a huge and unfair advantage.

Just my .02..........

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sherri, Charleston WV — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:38:30 GMT

THe only reason Bush is comfy with Clinton is that he damn well knows that if Obama wins the nomination for the Dems the Republican party is toast. Even with Clinton as the nominee, the Repubs have an upill battle; all that firing up of the base still adds up to a NO vote on a term led by the party that got us in this Eco/Political/Recessive/Antiamerican debacle in the first place.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

nuanced — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:38:48 GMT

Bush favors Obama least for president. Wear it proudly as a badge of honor Barack!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

NO fan Of Hillary — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:39:17 GMT

Clinton knows enough people that Hillary will be the nominee no matter what the people say. Wait and see, they are thieves and thugs, like busy they wil still this.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:39:27 GMT

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Dave, Tn — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:40:44 GMT

Nice ClintonSpeak from Bill Burton. That garbage might fly in a battle between democrats, but it won't work in the general.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

rich — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:41:51 GMT

I dont believe that Clinton will be able to withstand 10 consequetive wins by Obama as it seems likely. The positive press coverage from those 10 wins and the psycological impact it will have on voters will make it difficult for Clinton to pull off big upsets in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas. I just dont see Obama not being competitive in those states after 10 wins...just dont.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

--NSMsnbc — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:42:36 GMT

"Talking to folks who know Bush well say he just doesn't believe Obama's earned it ..."
--Not to unnecessarily Bush bash, but did he earn it, I must ask.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

scott, kent, ohio — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:43:53 GMT

American Democrats are delusional if they think Obama is a better choice over the Clintons. Hillary is the only choice for real change in America!!! A women president is a bigger statement to the world and to make a real shift in politics in the US. The Clintons are the best option for cleaning up Bush's mess. Obama's inexperience will be realized before the democratic convention. He is good at making great speeches that someone wrote for him but offers no real solutions. Wake up people!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

laura, miami, fl — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:45:17 GMT

This popularity contest between Obama and Clinton is dividing the party. Obama looks like he is running for president of the student council. This is not American Idol. This is serious.

Our country is at war and has serious economic problems and we need someone with experience to fix these problems. Obama should take the VP position and stop dividing the party. People are sick and tired of the back and forth and want a nominee. The media and the republicans have been giving Obama a free ride, but just wait. They will go negative as soon as they destroy Hillary. This is obviously what they are trying to do. Sure the polls show Obama with an advantage against McCain but thats because he has not be scrutinized yet. Obamas fairy tale will be over once they get a hold of him.

I know a lot of democrats, republicans and independents in Florida who would vote for Hillary but never Obama. This country needs change but change that comes with experience and smart leadership and that is what Hillary can provide. I am against the war, but am glad Hillary voted for it. She is tough and will be able to stand up to republicans and there attacks. Obama will not, he is a pushover and a cry baby.

If this race keeps going without them uniting, then the Democrats will lose in November. If Obama wins, the Hillary voters will be angry and the same if Hillary wins, the Obama fans will be angry. They must unite in one ticket and bring the party together.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Louise NY, NY — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:46:28 GMT

I have sent 3 messages. All against Obama.

WHY ARE NONE OF THEM SHOWING UP?

Are you an Obama supporter?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Norm Short Warrensburg, Mo. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:47:18 GMT

Put an Oboma speech next to a Hitler speech, they are so similar it is mindboggling. Get everyone all rived up,arm waving ,yelling,& CHANGE, we want change. Change to what? You tell me. Hitler changed the thinking of the youth in Germany, just like Oboma is doing now.Wake up America before it is too late!!!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Don Slowik Wilton, NH — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:48:14 GMT

Excellent! It's high time for transparent government and Citizen participation to break the status quo in Wahsington so that we can finally solve the problems that face US and move on to bigger and better things. I'm voting for Obama.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:48:56 GMT

It's gonna build momentum by winning the 'Chesapeak primary'.

But, OHIO and PENNSYLVANIA are the keys to the nomination !!

From Politico.com:

'...Clinton badly needs Virginia victory

By: Kenneth P. Vogel and Jonathan Martin and Lisa Lerer Feb 11, 2008 06:19 AM EST

Tuesday’s Chesapeake primary seems likely to continue propelling Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) in opposite directions.

Obama has hearty leads and distinct demographic advantages in each of the three contests: Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

With a sweep, he could start to pull away from Clinton in the battle for delegates needed to secure the Democratic presidential nomination.

Clinton – whose campaign is reeling after a high-level staff shakeup and weekend loses to Obama in Maine, Washington State, Nebraska and Louisiana – has all-but-conceded defeat in Maryland and the District.

She has campaigned hard in Virginia, where her campaign has a strategy to keep things competitive, but it’s already looking ahead to March 4 contests in Ohio and Texas as a firewall of sorts.

Obama leads Clinton in Virginia by 53 percent to 37 percent, according to a poll released Sunday by Mason-Dixon.

The survey found his lead in Maryland at 53 percent to 35 percent....'

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Lauren, SC — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:49:35 GMT

Hillary is always making excuses and playing the blame game. As a true blue democrat, I will not support Clinton. I didn't respect her while she was first lady. Although she was tough, she was undignified, and I certainly don't want to listen to her poll-driven/K-Street-driven decisions for 4 years while she builds up a large audience for Ru$h with the divisiveness that is sure to come. Wake up people. Real democrats who want the White House back will support Obama- he will get the independent vote from McCain.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Steve, Fort Collins, C) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:50:22 GMT

So George W. Bush thinks Barack Obama "just hasn't earned it...he's not worthy." This from the rich kid whose dad's position, wealth and connections got him everywhere he's been in life - as if he ever EARNED ANY of his "success." Incredible!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Johnson, New Orleans, LA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:51:47 GMT

Bush has no clue whats going on for the democratic race. He really shouldn't be talking politics in the 1st place. He needs to stop listening to FOX news so much. I'm going to be ecstatic to see him get out of politics. He would do better being a fisherman than a politician. Worst president in the history of the US.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Matt A. Grand Forks, ND — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:52:07 GMT

The two party system is very much the problem in America and if Hillary Clinton wins the nomination due to these "super delegates" over Obama's popular vote then the final nail in the coffin has been hammered in.

30 years of Bush/Clinton Imperialism in the United States is not what I, or any other person who is not a straight ticket imbecile, wants.

All Hail Czar Clinton.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:54:21 GMT

Oh !
Another HillRaiser !!

From the NY Post:

'...ODD FILM BY HILLARY BACKER

February 11, 2008 -- SEN. Hillary Clinton has gotten cozy with a Turkish-born businessman whom some have described as anti-Semitic. Clinton's campaign Web site identifies Mehmet Celebi as one of her "HillRaisers" - someone who has raised at least $100,000 for her presidential bid. This despite Celebi's controversial producing credit on "Valley of the Wolves: Iraq" - a 2006 movie that depicted a Jewish doctor removing the vital organs of civilian prisoners to sell to wealthy transplant patients overseas. "In accordance with the old anti-Semitic canard, the movie portrays Jewish-American doctors as forcibly harvesting organs from Muslims to give them to Jews," noted Detroit lawyer and columnist Debbie Schlussel observes on her blog. Clinton spokesman Jay Carson didn't get back to us for comment...'

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Elizabeth McDaniel, Lansing, Michigan — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:55:18 GMT

Mr. Todd - In your "won" totals for each, are you giving Michigan and Florida to Hillary? In Michigan Obama's name was not even on the ballot! And, of course, in BOTH they could not campaign. Just wondering how you justify giving these to Hillary, if you have, since the Democratic Party has not awarded any delegates from them to either candidate.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Mike Hudson — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:57:38 GMT

"Five-for-five: Over the weekend, Obama held serve -- and perhaps even more."

Wins by 37% (Washington), 36% (Nebraska), 21% (Louisiana) and 19% (Maine) and Obama "held serve"?!? Is this a joke? Boy, the Clintons are really effective at working the referees (i.e. the media). I'm astonished at the number of times media outlets simply repeat Clinton talking points/excuses for losing. And when Obama wins, he "held serve". At this point, Obama has won 18 of 29 contests, and he has done it by besting his opponent by an average margin of victory of 26%. He has run a better campaign than one run by one of the more formidable political machines in recent memory, a campaign with essentially 100% name-recognition. Your minimizing his accomplishment is very odd; it speaks of being addled by Washington-type conventional wisdom. How about getting out of the expectations game and the various ways the results are spun, an instead just talk about the facts?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Yiannis, Baltimore — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:58:14 GMT

While Bush was been handed degrees and jobs by his daddy, Obama was earning his degrees and re-shaping the streets of Chicago.

Who really expects W to understand much anyway?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 15:59:59 GMT

From Politico.com:

'...Obama landslides could break deadlock

By: Ben Smith
Feb 9, 2008 11:03 PM EST

Obama could build a lead over Clinton if he can win big in small and medium-sized states.

Barack Obama’s landslide victories in three mid-sized states Saturday suggest that he has the opportunity to build a significant lead over Hillary Rodham Clinton among the locked-in “pledged” delegates before the candidates face off in the big battlegrounds of Ohio and Texas on March 4.

The results in Washington and Nebraska vindicated Obama’s strategy of preparing expensive efforts to organize votes after the Feb. 5 contests that many expected — wrongly — effectively to decide the race. Clinton’s campaign, meanwhile, played down its own efforts in the states, though she did air television ads in both Washington and Nebraska.

Obama also won in Louisiana, buoyed by taking nearly 90 percent of the support of black voters, according to exit polls. And he won overwhelmingly in the U.S. Virgin Islands, winning all three of the territory’s pledged delegates.

In squeezing every delegate out of the small and mid-sized states between now and March 4, and every dollar out of his supporters, Obama is hoping to build a head of steam this month that will make him unstoppable and will lure free-floating superdelegates to his camp...'

But, he STILL has to prove he can win big states by winning Ohio and Pesnnsylvania
If he can win BOTH, the nomination is HIS
WITHOUT ANY STRINGS

John Edwards, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR ?
Are you committed to 'change' ?
If so, this is the time to ENDORSE and CAMPAIGN FOR OBAMA

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Mandy Jefferson Alex VA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:01:58 GMT

CLINTON has taken ALLOT of unfair attacks on her person and family. What kind of media response do you think it would cause for the media to say that Barrack is PIMPING Michelle? EXACTLY! see the racial differences. Its a sad day that its ok in this country to racially ATTACK a WHITE WOMAN former Honorable First lady and her family for political gain, but dare any non-black person say anyhting about the inexperienced racist black man running. Obamas and the media are sickening. Obama will be tore up by republicans. As a democrat I WILL NEVER VOTE FOR OBAMA.What is Senator Obama going to say to republicans when asked why he flip flops in each debate in favorof granting drivers' licenses to illegal immigrants or not, he chnages per the audience? Or about Obama's present position that undocumented workers will not be covered in his healthcare proposal, yet when he was running for the Senate he said that children of undocumented workers should get the same healthcare benefits that citizens get? when they begin to ask him about negotiating in unstructured summits with the leaders of Iran, North Korea and Cuba without preconditions? What will Senator Obama say when Senator McCain asks him why he said in 2004 that he did not know how he would have voted on the Iraq war authorization and that his view of the Iraq war was not different from President Bush's? facts show he supports the war, voted twice in 2006 against bringing America's troops back home. He votes for war appropriations giving our money to Halliburton and Blackwater. His latest bit of posturing S 433 allows the Bush Administration to suspend any troop withdrawal! Which if not suspended, still keeps the troops in Iraq for a long time to come? What will Senator Obama say when Senator McCain compares Obama's votes to fully fund the Iraq War in the Senate to Obama's rhetorical opposition to that war? What is Senator Obama going to say when Senator McCain questions Obama's claim to be "the most qualified person in America to conduct the foreign policy of the United States"? What is Senator Obama going to say when Senator McCain says that Obama is not one of the most qualified members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to lead this country in today's dangerous world but instead one of the most absent? Most importantly! Senator Obama HAS NOT conducted a single policy hearing as chairman of the subcommittee on European Affairs of the Foreign Relations Committee? He is nothing but media fluff. DONT WASTE YOUR MOST IMPORTANT VOTE THIS ELECTION. VOTE FOR YOUR CHILDRENS FUTURE, VOTE FOR EXPERIENCE AND LEADERSHIP! NOT RACISM! VOTE CLINTON

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

George, Seattle WA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:04:58 GMT

Oh come on! If Obama sweeps all 10 states it is over. Period. Just do the math. According to the campaign he is 84 pledged delegates ahead. Clinton's superdelegate lead is around 80 (those numbers are really fuzzy.) Assuming that the polls are right and he wins by margins enough to pick up more delegates, "the battle is over."

Excluding superdelegates, he is ahead even if you count Florida (she only won half, he got a third.) Michigan is hard to account for since he wasn't on the ballot. If he picks up enough delegates to be ahead by Florida AND the superdelegates, it will be really tough for Clinton to make the argument to the %75 of the superdelegates who have remained uncommitted. Superdelgates are local politians, and nothing the Clintons can offer will induce them to stand in the way of a movement.

If he sweeps, it becomes very difficult to see how Hillary can win. Texas is a huge prize, but it is extremely unlikely that she will get a large margin there (if she can even win it.)

With proportional representation it does not matter how large the state is. If the candidates go 50-50 (for example) then there is no net change.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

KRIS STL — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:10:43 GMT

I THINK AN END TO THE 2 PARTY SYSTEM WILL BE A GOOD THING. MAYBE WE CAN ACTUALLY GET TO A POINT IN OUR SOCIETY WHERE THE PEOPLE CAST A VOTE AND ACTUALLY PICK THE PRESIDENT BASED ON ISSUES. MAYBE THEN THE POLITICIANS WILL BE MORE LOYAL TO THE PEOPLE THEY REPRESENT AND NOT TO A PARTY AND LOBBIESTS.

AS FOR EDWARDS....WE KNOW WHAT HE WANTS...THE VP POSITION. OTHERWISE I FEEL HE WOULD HAVE SUPPORTED OBAME IMMEDIATELY..... HE JSUT WANTED TO MAKE SURE OBAMA HAD A BETTER SHOT AT ACTUALLY WINNIG. THE OLD SAYING GOES DO NOT BURN ANY BRIDGES BEFORE YOU CROSS THEM, AND NO MATTER WHAT HE FEELS ABOUT HILLARY THE CLINTONS ARE A PRETTY BIG BRIDGE TO BURN. BACKING OBAMA WOULD DO JUST THAT.
SO ANY ONE IN THE CHESAPEAKE ARE VOTE FOR OBAMA VOTE FOR CHANGE.....

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Tom, McDonough, GA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:16:13 GMT

What had Bush "earned" before he was elected? He held a constitutionally weak governorship. He lost a prior federal election, ran a failed business and a baseball team. I think Senator Obama couldn't get better press than that resulting from being criticized by President Thirty-Percent Approval Rating.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Marc Eppley, Winston-Salem, NC — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:16:33 GMT

I am extremely concerned that Bill C's lack of control and selfish immaturity will prove to be the coup de grace that finishes in '08 what his reckless self-indulgence wrought in '00. But for Monica and "what 'is' is," 2000 wouldn't have been close enough for the Rovists to steal. Now we are faced with the prospect of watching helplessly as the Democratic nominee's acceptance speech, in what should be a year of hope and promise, turns to ashes in Hillary's mouth. Six months ago I had fully expected to have a Hillary sign in my yard come fall '08, and I would dearly love to see Cheney, Rove, and Bush in the dock in the Hague in 2009, but if the FOBs manage to strong-arm the manifest will and enthusiasm of the party, even pragmatic, affluent, progressives might do the heretofore unthinkable.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Russ, Wells, Maine — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:16:50 GMT

Its time for a third party or get the indpendents united as to have somewhat of voice on who they will support or look for another canadate....dont sit around and wait for some one do it for you, get up join ous we need the tea party and dump washington as usual....we have had more promises this election and i dont think 909 percent of them they will live up to...they have been in washington long enough make change now or you will have politics as usual and you can go back to you do nothing attitude..This is your wake up call

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

SJS, Kansas City, MO — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:17:03 GMT

It is both interesting and disturbing that Bush is actually right about something. Obama is not ready to be president, and he hasn't earned it. (He does have the potential in the longer term.)

He's got momentum because America (Dems especially) love symbols and "stars." Then there's the help provided by NBC and MSNBC--the relentless kill-the-mean-Clintons narrative that delivers no scrutiny of Obama and trashes the Clintons.

If this keeps up, "Hail to the Chief" will soon be played for President McCain...

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

tradamerica, Heartland, USA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:19:36 GMT

This type of reporting is what many of us have been waiting for from MSNBC. Please stay this course. You can put Keesh Obermouth and Crispth mmmMathews in the dog house with Shyster, ahh, Shuster too!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Mary Frantz, Prior Lake, MN — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:24:09 GMT

When will the US citizens start to look for intelligence and capacity to lead rather than rhetoric and who looks better on TV? I would love to see a Clinton (pres) / Obama (VP) ticket. Clinton is the doer and Obama is the seller. Otherwise, I could not vote for Obama alone. He simply is not qualified and has not substance to his ideas, other than he is saying what he knows everyone wants to hear. Been there with Bush, not going there again.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Robert, Sturbridge, Ma. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:27:13 GMT

Yeah Ok...as if George Bush has an ounce of credibility to even comment on this race. Every time he opens his mouth....he energizes us Democrats...who will go to the polls in droves in November to elect Obama. Bush squandered our national treasure, ruined our reputation in the world, and is responsible for tens of thousands of now crippled war vets and innocent Iraqi's. All this so the unconscious Bush could act out his narcissism and oedipal complex on the world stage. That is W's legacy.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:28:20 GMT

In response to Bush vs. Obama: It does not surprise me at all that Bush would endorse Hillary or McCain over Obama Since Hillary displays the same Dishonesty & lack of good judgment. As for choosing McCain. aside from the possibility of McCain in his 70's ending up croaking in office the man graduated 790th out of 795 in his class and then set a Naval record by crashing 5 test planes during his Navel training proving he's just as inept and dumb as Bush. If thats not enough let me also stress that he did all of this in his youth. Can you Imagine how stupid he must be now in his 70's? Bush is again just displaying His lack of Sound leadership skills and is why most of us want a Change.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Jim Banks, Towanda, PA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:28:34 GMT

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Anti Reaganess Big Talkers, Columbus Georgia. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:29:18 GMT

OMG!!

Obamb is the "Establishment" front runner candidate now....

It's rare that I agree with George Bush about anything, in fact, the only agreement we have had up until now, is that it is and was fun drinking in the Bars Of Houston, (for those that don't know GWB spent a good deal of the Vietnam War experience there in Houston TX. bars.) But Bush did make the comment that he does not know what Obama stands for... I don't either, I still don't know what he stands for, other than the Establishment...

Hillary Clinton, is the Underdog in this contest now, Obama is the "establishment" candidate. With all his endorsements, of ultimate insider politicians Teddy Kennedy, Tom Daschle, Kerry.... It's impossible to get anymore "ESTABLISHMENT" than that....

That's not all Obama is not giving any speeches different than any of the other Democratic Candidates, now or before. There is nothing new or different in his approach and there was nothing new or different in his service while in Washington. He is not speaking of anything radical, or new, or anything remotely related to real change.... I CHALLENGE ANYONE TO TELL ME WHERE IT'S AT.... The real change he speaks of.... Where is it? Not in his speeches, not in his "Hollow" voting record, and certainly not in his service in Washington.

John McCain, will knock Obama out of the ring... When Obama says he did not vote for the war, while in Chicago, but funded every piece of it, once he was in Washington, just like the Establishment candidate he is. The Republicans will not let him hide, like the Democratic Establishment has done. It was the Party that stopped Bill Clinton, not South Carolina. It's the party that won't let Hillary really go after Obama.

John McCain will scoff at such silly behavior, and he will make Obama look like the hypocrite he is about the Iraq War. There were other Democrats who voted against the war, and did not fund it. But Obama like the rest of the Establishment politicians did vote to fund it... Against it then... for it now (the votes).... against it again... this is so typical of Political behavior, so typical of Establishment behavior.

More power to Obama in his quest to become President, but don't try to feed so much (BS) to the rest of us who are not, mesmerized by words, the rest of us who are in fact mesmerized by "deeds" words means little to us...

John McCains legacy is rock solid and real, he really does govern in the center, (he really is an American hero) Obama's empty words will have a very hard time over coming this... Because unlike the Democratic Party Establishment, that says so much of Obama's hypocrisy and ultra thin resume, is off limits, to be criticized by the Clinton camp... It won't be that way, with the Republicans.

Of course, Obama has to win the nomination first, but when it comes to standing up to John McCain, the old saying about "talk" that is "talk is cheap," truly applies when dealing with McCain...

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

squintz, philly, pa — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:29:56 GMT

J. Merle - ah, and there we have it. All of us Obama supporters are the Democratic deserters, eh? Please, feel free to vote McCain. In that BOTH of my Republican parents (in PA, not NY, which I'll bet now won't go for McCain) will be voting Obama if he is up against McCain. Methinks the "Obamapublicans" will far outnumber these McCain Democrats.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sharon Stown, Indianapolis - IN — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:30:11 GMT

I have no mercy for the Clinton's. They put themselves in these situations. David Shuster did apologize what he said about Hillary's daughter. Don't start comparing Michelle Obama with what happened to Hillary's daughter. It was wrong that he said what he did. Can American wake up, and see that Obama is for everybody. Hillary cannot unite the Democrats and Republician in Washington. She is already being brought by several leaders. I know this, because I us to work in Washington. Obama is going to "Win". Different leaders in other countries don't want to deal with Hillary, because they already know she is crooked. They are looking for someone who demonstrates honesty, character, leadership, and unity. She isn't any of these things. Hillary will be history in a couple of months. Also, Obama has won the most states, so what Hillary has more Super Delegates, they are going to change their vote and support Obama.

Obama 2008 Supporter

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Deborah, Lewisville, TX — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:30:12 GMT

End of the two parties? Since the Rs have been bullying and relying on religious conservatives to push them over the top in recent history, one has only to look at how many books have been released in the last month touting the end of the politics of the religious right to see that "times, they are a changin'."

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Analu — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:32:06 GMT

There are many things that Obama and Clinton have in common, and a few where they differ (in my opinion, mostly in the categories of diplomacy, rhetorical skill, and personal appeal). However, if we must stretch so far for differences that we paint Senator Clinton as an emotional (read manipulative) campaigner, let's just have a look at her voting record and look at Senator Obama's as well:

"Senator Clinton, who has served only one full term (6yrs.), and another year campaigning, has managed to author and pass into law, (20) twenty pieces of legislation in her first six years.

These bills can be found on the website of the Library of Congress (www.thomas.loc.gov), but to save you trouble, I’ll post them here for you.

1. Establish the Kate Mullany National Historic Site.
2. Support the goals and ideals of Better Hearing and Speech Month.
3. Recognize the Ellis Island Medal of Hon
4. Name courthouse after Thurgood Marshall.
5. Name courthouse after James L. Watson.
6. Name post office after Jonn A. O’Shea.
7. Designate Aug. 7, 2003, as National Purple Heart Recognition Day.
8. Support the goals and ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day.
9. Honor the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton on the bicentennial of his death.
10. Congratulate the Syracuse Univ. Orange Men’s Lacrosse Team on winning the championship.
11. Congratulate the Le Moyne College Dolphins Men’s Lacrosse Team on winning the championship.
12. Establish the 225th Anniversary of the American Revolution Commemorative Program.
13. Name post office after Sergeant Riayan A. Tejeda.
14. Honor Shirley Chisholm for her service to the nation and express condolences on her death.
15. Honor John J. Downing, Brian Fahey, and Harry Ford, firefighters who lost their lives on duty.
Only five of Clinton’s bills are more substantive:

16. Extend period of unemployment assistance to victims of 9/11.
17. Pay for city projects in response to 9/11
18. Assist landmine victims in other countries.
19. Assist family caregivers in accessing affordable respite care.
20. Designate part of the National Forest System in Puerto Rico as protected in the wilderness preservation system.

There you have it–the facts straight from the Senate Record.

Now, I would post those of Obama’s, but the list is too substantive, so I’ll mainly categorize.

During the first (8) eight years of his elected service he sponsored over 820 bills. He introduced:

233 regarding healthcare reform,
125 on poverty and public assistance,
112 crime fighting bills,
97 economic bills,
60 human rights and anti-discrimination bills,
21 ethics reform bills,
15 gun control,
6 veterans affairs and many others.

His first year in the U.S. Senate, he authored 152 bills and co-sponsored another 427. These inculded:

**the Coburn-Obama Government Transparency Act of 2006 (became law),
**The Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional Weapons Threat Reduction Act, (became law),
**The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, passed the Senate,
**The 2007 Government Ethics Bill, (became law),
**The Protection Against Excessive Executive Compensation Bill, (In committee), and many more."

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

loris bay — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:32:08 GMT

If obama was right out of grade school he would have more sense and make a better president than Bush. Bush was a puppet on a string pulled By Rove and Chaney. He is actually a certified dummy. Still cant beleive the American elected this dummy twice!! Every one who voted for bush should be very ashamed.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Monty Joham — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:32:32 GMT

Obama's Momentum

The excitement and media hype that followed Obama's Iowa victory was quickly followed by a Clinton victory in New Hampshire. Most political journalists were attracted to Obama because they reflect one of his core constituencies: college educated and affluent voters. New Hampshire served as a rebuke to this demographic and a chastened press began to temper its enthusiasm for Obama. In the week leading up to Super Tuesday the press again jumped on the Obama bandwagon, but no one predicted Obama would win Massachusetts, New York or California, only that he now had a chance to win there. When he lost those states despite significant endorsements (Kennedy) and and surge in the polls (California), some in the media spun this as a loss in the sense that Clinton had again blunted his momentum as she had done in New Hampshire.

The press has been duly chastened and it seems to me that they never did Obama much of a service in hyping him up. Or at least whatever positive media attention he received was tempered by the negative reaction to this coverage by women and lower-income workers. Thus, even though Obama clearly gained momentum on Super Tuesday, the press did not forcefully push this story. Instead the dominant narrative became: Clinton and Obama are in a delegate chase and this race will likely be decided by insiders at the party convention in August. Some even suggested that Obama lost Super Tuesday because he did not capitalize on the momentum of his endorsements, which is absurd.
The irony here is that if the press took up the alternate narrative (that Obama now has significant momentum), Obama would probably be hurt again by the hype. Instead the Obama campaign has successfully managed to lower expectations in the press (very important in this primary race thus far) and are therefore in a much stronger position now than they were after Iowa.

For the first time I believe that Barack Obama has a virtual lock on the nomination. He will win these contests in February and he is throwing his organizing power into Ohio and Texas. He has time to really target these states in the weeks between now and March 4. He might make an appearance or two in Wisconsin, but he will spend the bulk of his time in Ohio and Texas. His momentum will help him there and he might just win Ohio. Even if he loses both states, it might not matter: He only has to keep it close and split those delegates. Especially if he can continue to win by large margins in the upcoming primaries.

I have supported Barack Obama with campaign donations and a whisper campaign among friends and family. My wife was a Hillary supporter at first, but she eventually came around to Obama. One thing I have done (and this is something all Obama supporters should think about) is that I have not disparaged Clinton with misogynistic attacks. Clinton lost me with her position on Iraq, but I do not hate her. Even though I have disagreed with Obama on some statements (especially his remarks about Pakistan last year which caused me to donate money on the spot to Ron Paul and cancel my small monthly recurring donation to Obama) I believe he is the best candidate left.

The final nail in the coffin for Hillary Clinton's presidential bid is the argument Obama finally pulled out yesterday. I am impressed with his patience. After months of scrupulously avoiding criticizing President Clinton (Health Care and NAFTA are two notable exceptions) it is now time for the coup de grace: Democrats lost under President Clinton. They lost their majorities in Congress and Al Gore lost a campaign that should not have been close. This argument may not mean much to blue collar workers, but it is a clincher with the super delegates.

P.S. Obama bloggers should in general seek to show more class. Don't give into cheap ad hominem attacks. There is a kind of cult following in many Obama supporters. The tone of much of this discourse does nothing to help Barack Obama.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

robert, ny ny — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:33:08 GMT

Hillary's decision to Jettison her campaign manager is exactly how she will run her administration; bring on a bunch of lightweight, yes men, and when they don't perform, cut them loose. It's been disclosed that Solis apparantly didn't tell hillary she was of of cash. And we want to trust hillary with the national budget; when the country's bankrupt, she can claim it's because someone forgot to tell her.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Trent, Philadelphia, PA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:33:49 GMT

Obama had the chance to effect change on issues such as gun control, abortion, and keeping the privacy of sex-abuse victims. He couldn't even bring himself to take a stand...just voted "present". Agent of change? Come on now.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

analu — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:34:36 GMT

So Bush doesn't like Obama.

Hey! That's a great omen!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Ben perzanowski, mansfield ohiop — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:34:46 GMT

the democratic primaries are very troubling to me. first, the whole race issue is turned upside down. it is ok for ungodly numbers of blacks to vote in-block for Obama, that is not racist. But Bill Clinton uttering what was in no way racist is considered taboo.
donna Brazile threatening to leave the party if the convention goes to super delegated, ie. brokered convention. Even though she is only one person she represents the black interests and she is throwing out a warning. She must be forgetting Obama's strength, winning caucus states. I am at a loss to distinguish the difference between state caucus dynamics and nationally brokered conventions.

As a Democrat I deeply resent the way the black interest has insulated itself from any criticism and is using the minority status to gain advantage. I a poor analogy I believe this is similar to a boys sports team playing a girls team but having to hold back so as to not hurt then girls. Only the roles are reversed. The girl, Hillary , is having to hold back so as not to offend the boys, Obama and conpany, so as not to offend the black sensibilities.

I am not opposed to Obama. I am opposed to him getting a free ride.

To me this a clear example of racial preference.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Ellis B. Kingman, Az. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:34:49 GMT

Could Clinton lead from day one, manage the government and fix the economy? Clinton cannot even manage her own campaign, through firings and resignations Clinton has constantly reshuffled her campaign staff and strategy trying to find something that works. She has squandered away forty million dollars moving staffers and volunteers around trying to flood states to acquire votes, and now she has LOANED her campaign five million dollars she expects to retrieve from the contributions made by others. Hillary Clinton could not manage a corner grocery successfully.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Tired of Obama — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:35:19 GMT

"Barack Obama doesn't need any foreign policy advice from the architect of the worst foreign policy decision in a generation.” Absolutely CORRECT! Obama has said that we need to change the "MINDSET" that got us into this mess. Also absolutely correct.
JohnnyU, WA State (Sent Monday, February 11, 2008 10:00 AM)

Sorry, but like Obama's slogans they are getting old. Obama has never had to make any decision beyond those of a community activist and name calling will only get you so far.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Marina Garcia Gelpe, Ithaca, New York — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:36:01 GMT

With the advent of the internet, politics have already changed. The problem is, the Clintons have not changed with it. They are still doing their backroom deals thinking that the people don't know what's really going on the way they didn't in the past. With the exchange of blogs and immediate information, we are like the delegates to the Continental Congress or the Constitutional Convention. We practically have a front row seat and a bird's eye view of what politicos are thinking, saying, and doing. We can even speculate on their plans from tracking their movements, trends, and reactions. It's sad, really, to see the Clintons try to keep up with the new politics they do not understand and cannot flow with and into and out of. George Bush is now putting out the same spin he put out on Gore and Kerry: They have no plans, they are empty words. Why? Because the Republicans know they can beat Hillary. They don't have the slightest idea how to even run against Obama. I assure you, she has not been completely vetted (her taking over the Black Women's Hunger Strike at Wellesley, her alleged affair with her mentor in Arkansas, her only working for a month for the Children's Defense Fund, Bill taking $30 million from Kasakhstan for his library, and on and on...). The Clintons are a veritable buffet of closeted skeletons. Hillary even used the Yes We Can theme in her last speech. Believe me, it resonates like a table saw in her mouth. Barack makes it sing. Her Universal Health Care that is mandated will be ripped apart by sociophobic Republicans. Not so Barack's plan. And, have you ever wondered why Barack always wins open public caucuses but Hilary wins secret ballot elections? You don't think the Republicans are capable of cheating for her to make sure they run against her? We all know they didn't really win either the 2000 or the 2004 election, so why not? Underdog Hillary? Only in the way she lies down for the Lobbyists. Come on over to the sunny side of the street, voters: Obama will bring a badly needed rebirth for our once great country.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Jade7243 — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:37:54 GMT

Let's see... I'm no Roger Federer, but if you and I play tennis and the score 5-0, either I BROKE your serve 2 or 3 times ,and held my own 3 or 2 times. "holding serve" would mean a 3-2 or 2-3 margin... I know you guys at MSNBC are scrambling hard to make up to the Clintons for poor David Shuster's misstatement, but come on... If you are going to use a sports metaphor at least get it right. Where is Bob Costis when you need him? OBAMA kicked Hillary's but this weekend, And no amount of excuses from the Clinton camp can rewrite the scorecard.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

cecil paul, Brooklyn, NY — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:45:00 GMT

The Clintons employed some unacceptable tactics in their campaign. Bill dismissing Obama's position on the war as - a fiary tale and gimme a break instead of constructive criticism,Hillary invoking MLK and reducing his civil rights struggles as - it took a President to sign in the lawsthis hurt many Americans who love MLK.Bill dismissive remarks that Obama like JJ won in SC intimating that he would lose nationally many saw this as dismissing the efforts of a bright young AA candidate in Obama ,Hillary's statement at one of the debates that Latinos are taking away jobs from AA which some saw as scapegoating Latinos, and Bill's intervention in the Nevada caucus creating a conflict between Latino and AA Culinary workers which led to a further conflict between the Teachers Union and the Culinary Workers union.Many democrats view this as a former President using his status to muscle workers into supporting his wife .These incidents were unwarranted and created a feeling that the Clintons were doing anything necessary to win back the White House even splitting the Democratic Party.However the majority of Democrats may still vote for her over Obama. Why? because most of the mud pelted may stick.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sean Price, London UK — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:45:30 GMT

While I like Obama a lot I feel that Clinton will be a safer bet to secure the white house. I kind of feel that Obama would be great for America at home and overseas but would the more traditional voter go for it? Would Obama turn would be Democrat voters into republican voters because they are not ready for such a change. Its pretty sad really but I feel that America is not quite ready for a black president no matter how white friendly he is. But its come on leaps since the Jesse Jackson days.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Joe Dilfer, Hunts Creek CA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:47:31 GMT

Bush favors Obama least for president. Wear it proudly as a badge of honor Barack!

nuanced

Like flys attracted to a bug zapper, the Democrats have no idea of their fate.

I think Rove refers to this as "Taking the bait!".

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Doug, San Diego — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:49:30 GMT

Jerry, Jerry, Jerry...showing the astonishing depths of your ignorance yet again. I was stationed on a ship homeported in San Diego for two years, and then on NAS Corpus Christi for two years. Guess which town has a higher percentage of military? Thats right. More military and military families in Southern CA than in Texas, and we love them here. Travel sometime, will you? Corpus Christi is a little backwater port, not the center of the universe. Get over yourself and your city, neither is very impressive.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Roland Madore, Fort Collins, CO — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:49:37 GMT

You know, Hillary supporters, you need to stop saying Obama supporters hate Hillary. We don't. Face it; both camps of supporters are just adamant about their candidate is all. For me, personally, if Hillary ends up being the nominee, I will vote for her over McCain, who I admire as well as a great American hero. I really do believe, however, Obama has the best chance of uniting this country and taking us forward to a brighter future. I say this as a retired teacher with 35 years of service to our nation's kids, as a parent, and as a grandparent. My greatest concern is for a better future for our kids and grandkids! I want to turn the page for them on the past and the Bush-Clinton dynasties. And by the way, my own mother-in-law* is 89, and she told me she will cast her vote for Obama knowing that should she die soon after, her vote will have made a difference long after she's gone. No hate here at all intended.

*My mother died needlessly at 50 of cervical cancer.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Anti Reaganess Big Talkers, Columbus Georgia. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:50:01 GMT

OMG!!

Obama is just more of the same... it's only the Obamites that are too blind to see...

There is nothing different about the guy... Same speeches, same ideas, he gets cross over votes, well so does McCain. He is very mainstream, loves Washington, they all do.... Hardly anything new. He talks about "change" wow that's a new one isn't it?

Change is the **only constant** don't believe me look in the mirror...

There's millions of us who see this. The Obamites, will find this out, if not in the Democratic Nomination, then in the general... The Black vote is not going to "carry" the general election....

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Anti Reaganess Big Talkers, Columbus Georgia. — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:51:11 GMT

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Bob Sloan, USA Ret. Foley, AL (DEMS FOR MCCAIN) — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:52:13 GMT

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

anobserver, Texas — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:52:52 GMT

It's really dissappointing to see so many people claiming Obama "isn't ready" to be president. It is clearly an unsubstantiated position. The argument is that Hillary is ready from "Day One", and if I hear her say that again I swear I am going to puke on my tv. Yes, it IS important to be ready from Day One, but much more importantly, it is important to have courageous LEADERSHIP from day one. Two things are really telling about Hillary: 1) she voted for the Iraq war resolution WITHOUT READING THE RELEVANT NIE. This shows a clear lack of leadership ability and judgement, because leaders gather information relevant to the problem and then act in a reasoned manner to address it. Political opportunists vote with the emotion of the time, future consequences be damned. This kind of leadership is very reminiscent of GW Bush than of great leaders. 2) She voted for a bill that she "hoped" wouldn't become law. That is disingenuous and shows a second clear lack of leadership and critical decision making skill. Why vote for something if you're opposed to it? Because it's (again) politically expedient? What if this harmful bill had become law by a margin of 1 vote?

If these few instances are the things that show Hillary's leadership and decision making skills, then that's NOT the kind of leadership we need in this day and age. Just imagine "I launched the nukes, but I hoped they wouldn't kill anybody". Or, "No, I didn't read the NIE before I ordered our military to invade that country, and even after 4,000 dead soldiers and tens of thousands of injured soldiers, I still think I did the right thing in voting for the war without reading the relevant material". But it's ok, because our fearless leader Hillary can blame G.W. Bush for doing what she voted to allow him to do. Even at 60, she still acts like a 2-year old, or Bush: It's everybody's fault but mine, and when it is my fault, it doesn't matter because even though I did it, I didn't want it to happen. So nya!

Choose bold leadership this year. Hillary is not it.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Gurudev, All American City — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:54:57 GMT

I am confused, for delegate count ...

MSNBC says Obama 943 Hillary 895

CNN says Obama 1121 Hillary 1148

Is CNN biased towards Hillary Clinton or is MSNBC doing a better job of delegate count?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Jane, Cary, NC — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 16:55:25 GMT

If we get to June and Obama is leading in Pledged Delegates AND # of States won - but Hillary has more actual votes - who would be the better nominee for the party in the fall where you have the Electoral College system? If Obama has shown a BROAD APPEAL to Red, Blue, AND Purple states - in a year when DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY TURNOUT is ALMOST DOUBLE that of the GOP, it is VERY likely that a UNIFYING candidate like OBAMA could very well win in many of these Purple and Red states! OF COURSE HE WILL WIN IN DEMOCRATIC STATES like NY, NJ, MA and CA! That is not the issue. BUT - OBAMA has won in states like Kansas, Nebraska, Maine, Washington, Colorado, Iowa and Missouri! And he would make some Southern states competitive. He has won in MOSTLY WHITE STATES - so can we PLEASE drop this Pat Buchanan refrain that he only wins among Blacks. In MAINE, he broke through the blue-collar WHITE barrier and won many of these voters. He can win EVERYWHERE! Even Colin Powell stongly hinted HE might support Obama! AND the polls show that Obama does better in match-ups with McCain. Why? Because he wins Democrats, INDEPENDENTS AND GOP voters! So just because Hillary may win more actual votes from populous states like NY and NJ - where OBAMA WINS MANY VOTES TOO - that is NOT the best indicator as to WHO THE BETTER CANDIDATE WOULD BE IN THE FALL! REMEMBER - THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE IS ABOUT STATES WON! NOT the popular vote! OBAMA WILL WIN THE STATES HILLARY HAS WON LIKE NY and NJ - BUT HE WILL WIN MANY, MANY MORE!!!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Richard, Baltimore — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:00:08 GMT

Clinton has negatives which are to high to overcome in the General Election.

I believe the Dems understand that and is one of the main reasons they are voting for Obama.

If the superdelegates give it to Clinton inspite of a majority of delegates earned in Primarys and Caucases for Obama, it will be a hollow victory as the party will be too dispirited to rally behind her.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

CitizenJ — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:00:53 GMT

J. Merle & Co.,

I realize that going 0 for 5 over the weekend was disheartening. Especially since each defeat was by double-digits. But that doesn't mean that the reporting of the results is somehow bias toward Obama. Please direct me to a particular sentence or paragraph that shows MSNBC's bias for Obama. He won every state decisively. How else do you report it? It isn't the media's fault that Clinton isn't competitive in every state.

Just relax, and when March rolls around, you can hope that Texas or Ohio will break Obama's winning streak. Then maybe you can have something else to talk about. Your media conspiracy theories, while amusing, do get a little tiring.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Eric, NC — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:02:52 GMT

I love reading about what we as Americans are really thinking, for better or worse, we are who we are. Some are as ignorant as can be like that clown from TN complaining that Obama ONLY represents black men that aren't locked up...if that ain't missing the WHOLE point, I just don't know what else to say.

Obama '08

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

William T. Street, 2532 Mershon, Saginaw, Michigan — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:07:55 GMT

Never underestimate the capacity for the national Democratic Party to self destruct internally. Just imagine for example how awful it would be if Barack Obama won the most primaries, the most caucuses, and a significantly larger share of the popular vote among the grassroots Democrats and independents than Hillary Clinton, only to be denied the nomination following a bitter credentials fight over the botched Florida and Michigan primaries and Billary's advantage among the super delegates.

John McCain has already pretty much announced that he plans to make Joe Lieberman his Secretary of State if elected. I think Obama should campaign with John Edwards as his pre-announced Attorney General, and fill in the VP slot with Bill Richardson or of course Hillary Clinton if she'd take it. Bill Clinton should be named US ambassador to the UN by any new Democratic president.

Are the parties dead, other than as a ballot access device? My answer is, the structure of both the Republican and Democratic parties can break a candidate, but not make a candidate. What's weird beyond that is that the GOP is now controlled at its top by its most ideologically extreme elements, and the insider DC beltway Democratic leadership apparently remains addicted to triangulation, ambiguity, avoidance, and compromise on an issue-by-issue basis.

Unless Barack Obama goes wobbly on his committment to end the occupation of Iraq as quickly as possible (or allows himself to be baited by Karl Rove's propaganda machine into a sabre rattling contest alongside Bush and John McCain), he should win both the nomination and the election.

Bill Street
Saginaw, Michigan

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Mark S, NC — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:08:33 GMT

Jim Banks, Towanda, PA,

I would encourage you to visit Obama's website and check out the truly impressive list of foreign policy and military experts who are supporting his candidacy. What do you know that they don't, I wonder?

And I also want to agree vigorously with Monty Joham, regarding the tone of Obama supporters on this site. Be respectful, inclusive, and intelligent. That's the best way to argue on behalf of our candidate. And then it can serve as a clear distinction between those of both camps who wish to have an actual exchange of ideas, and those of both camps who are only here for the purpose of character assassination.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Catalina Laires, Tacoma, Washington — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:08:36 GMT

It is funny that Bush would critize Obama when this Sunday on CNN's late edition interview, Colin Powell agreed with Obama's stand on talking to all world leaders. Those we like and those we dislike as well. Mr. Powell stated that he himself had been in talks with other countries that we don't necessarily like. Colin Powell felt favorabily about Obama's take on how to improve our standing in the world, that's better than what Bush has ever done for us in the international setting.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

kj, Dallas, TX — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:17:21 GMT

Hillary's 35 years of 'experience' includes:
Monica Lewinsky
Gennifer Flowers
Juanita Broaddrick
Kathleen Willey
Whitewater
Cattle futures
Rose Law firm, rperesenting corporate interests
Wal Mart board of directors
TravelGate
HairCutGate
the NAFTA sell out
the WTO sell out
the Millenium Communications bill
Vincent Foster
the McDougals
Buddist Fund raising
Norman Hsu
Johnny Treu
Peter Paul
Marc Rich pardon
Voting for the Iraq War
Voting for Kyl/Lieberman
Voting AGAAINST the cluster bomb ban
'race-baiting'
yada, yada, tada....

That's a LOT of 'EXPERIENCE' Billary

Sierra, SF:

I am soo glad that I'm not the only one who REMEMBERS all of the scandals and corruptions surrounding the Clintons during that administration. We Americans have such short and selective memories, but I for one, do not want to see a repeat of this fiasco. Americans remember, repeating the same thing over and over again, but expecting a different result is INSANITY. Get rid of the Bushes and Clintons, and the old status quo NOW!

Also, please ask Sen. Clinton to stop stealing Sen. Obama's messages from his rallies. Can she not come up with her own ORIGINAL material??? GEEZ.

OBAMA, 2008!
YES WE CAN!!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Michael — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:18:13 GMT

"Talking to folks who know Bush well say he just doesn't believe Obama's earned it; that he's worthy. "

Yeah, Bush sure knows who is worthy of the office...

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

DAN INGRAM, BHAM AL — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:23:56 GMT

IT' TIME AMERICA PUTS AN END TO THE STINCH OF THE CLINTONS ONCE AND FOR ALL..........OBAMA....HUCKABEE........MCCAIN.......ITS TIME AMERCIA SPEAKS UP..STANDS UP AND THROWS THE CLINTON FRAUD OUT........FOREVER!!!!!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Psychic Mary — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:24:01 GMT

You fools! Hillary Rodham Clinton will be our next president. It is written. Mr Obama has some very negative activities from his past which will soon surface and do him much damage.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

MK,MO — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:25:05 GMT

the argument that obama has no concrete plans and hillary does is rubbish, obama's plans are laid out in detail, clinton's are purposely vague and non-precise, and all this information is available to anyone that wants it.

as far as the experience factor goes, hillary has a lot of experience concerning the in's and out's of manipulating the corrupt political lobbyist machine in washington, but as far as experience bringing people together to achieve a specific goal she is a proven failure, nobody is going to work with hillary on anything she is the most divisive political figure in history, fact is the people want obama because he is not part of the 'good ol boy' system that currently darkens the halls of congress, he does offer real change and real hope, all hillary offers is business as usual, probably why she has the overwhelming support of george bush

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Patrick, Indianapolis — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:27:05 GMT

I find it interesting that Obama has big leads among people with some college education, a bachelor's degree or a post-doctorate degree. His support increases as the level of education increases. Hillary has the support of people with a high-school education and less. Well of course Obama leads among educated people and Clinton leads among ignorant hillbillies. Wow, there's a shock, the ignorant racists in the south don't support Obama! This proves that only stupid people support Hillary. People with any amount of intelligence support the best candidate which is Obama.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Indepdendent in CA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:28:44 GMT

the democratic primaries are very troubling to me. first, the whole race issue is turned upside down. it is ok for ungodly numbers of blacks to vote in-block for Obama, that is not racist
Ben perzanowski, mansfield ohiop (Sent Monday, February 11, 2008 11:34 AM)

Quick Note - most of these same voters voted for Bill Clinton last time - and have always voted for white democratic candidates in large numbers as well.....look at some old polls from past elections....don't just buy into the media hype.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

CitizenJ — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:29:34 GMT

This country's national defense can't be left to the whims of a community activist/civil rights attorney. That said, if Hillary is not the nominee I will support, and encourage others, to support John McCain for President. While I would gladly have Mr. Obama join my local community leaders in support of community projects, I will not let the defense of this country fall into the hands of someone who grossly lacks the knowledge and capacity to lead a strong national defense.

Bob Sloan, USA Ret. Foley, AL (DEMS FOR MCCAIN) (Sent Monday, February 11, 2008 11:52 AM)

Yeah. Instead, let's give it to someone who had the judgement and experience to trust George Bush with this war. Let's give it to someone who thought a resolution called the "Joint Resolution to Authorize the Use of United States Armed Forces Against Iraq" meant vigorous diplomacy. Let's give it to someone who voted AGAINST the amendment which WOULD have authorized vigorous dipolomacy in Iraq before the war started. Let's give it to someone who, after knowing all of this, gave George Bush the benefit of the doubt on Iran. Yes, let's do that.

OR, we can give it to someone who still thinks Iraq had something to do with 9/11, and thusly thinks Iraq is still the central front in the "war on terror". We can give it to someone who thinks we could be in Iraq for upwards of 100 years. We can give it to someone who is as close-minded as George Bush. We can give it to someone who thinks removing our troops from harms way is surrendering to terrorists and is unpatriotic. We can give it to someone who will continue the politics of fear. Yes, let's do that.

OR, we can vote for Barack Obama.

Your choice.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

houston, tx — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:30:28 GMT

To J merly, You comment lack substance. May be i suggest you read the comment you wrote.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Independent in CA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:31:37 GMT

I am confused, for delegate count ...

MSNBC says Obama 943 Hillary 895

CNN says Obama 1121 Hillary 1148

Is CNN biased towards Hillary Clinton or is MSNBC doing a better job of delegate count?
Gurudev, All American City (Sent Monday, February 11, 2008 11:54 AM)

MSNBC is not counting Superdelegates - CNN is.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Just wondering, NY — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:32:00 GMT

I think it is really funny that now people are criticizing Sen. Obama for not being specific enough on the issues. Where were all of you last summer when he was giving detailed policy speeches on the economy, health care, Iraq etc.? Oh, I'm sorry - not paying attention?

I know it's easy to criticize -- and for some people it's sport - but at least be honest in your critique. And if you really in fact are interested (in what he thinks - why don't you go to his website?

And as far as MSNBC being biased in favor of Senator Obama - you have got to be kidding. As far as I can remember just about everyone on that network has called her the favorite, the frontrunner and on and on it goes. Just because someone makes favorable comments about someone - doesn't make them biased - commentators are allowed to express their opinions too - that's why they call them commentators.

Obama '08

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Frank W- Boca Raton, FL — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 17:33:51 GMT

It is time for Sen. Clinton to demonstrate that she could unite the party and perhaps the country by stepping aside. She has clearly lost the majority of the delegates, States and the popular vote. Her Campaign is in a mess. Barack is set to win the next 5 States and that could easily effect the results in TX. She won CA because a large number of votes were cast by mail before the actual election day.
The people have spoken Sen. Clinton and the judgement is not in your favor

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

anthony — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:15:22 GMT

I personally do not mind having a woman President but I would like to see the right one and Hillary and her baggage are not the right ones. I for one do not want to see another scandle from the Clintons. It is time for change and we do not need to turn back the hands of time on the Clinton saga of infidelity because while Hillary is flying around Bill will be creating havoc on the interns. Imagine the Headlines??? TURN THE PAGE!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Trace — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:18:11 GMT

Someone mentioned Obama being "a man that represents less than 6% of America" being unfit for this reason.

A man that represents the white male majority has been in the White House for the past 8 years and where exactly has that gotten us? Your race has nothing to do with performance, no matter how you skew it. Barack Obama seems FAR more intelligent than George Bush and the only place he can take this nation is forward.

Lift the veil from your eyes. Its 2008. It's time for change.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Rick,ky — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:25:46 GMT

Yeah right, J. Merle, mainstreaner's are 2 outta 7 in the previous cycles, not a gr8 performance.Maybe You so-called mainstreamer's need to get out a little more& actually see what's going on with the Real America.

Mainstreamer's don't Win without lotsa Help.

You call Barack a Non Patriot. That's what the GOP called ANYONE who did'nt support this debacle in IRAQ. Showing your True color's are ya J. Merle?

MAINSTREAMER, MY ASS. SORE LOSER IS MORE LIKE IT!

Folks, you can't Explain Barack Obama's position's to people who are incapable of listening. They call Barack's supporter's a cult, but they are Part of the Cult that has put America into the position, we are in the World ( HATED).You can't make people, click on a site, they have No intention of visiting to find out why we support Barack Obama.
I say, let them drown in the Past, the Future is what most of us care about, since we have kid's & grandkid's that we care more about than Entrenched Politic's.
Patrick, I resent your comment about racist hillbilly's. I live in rural Kentucky & call myself a Hillbilly. However, this 52 year old WHITE Male has been for Barack since he announced . Also, the 70 year old White Male up the Holler is gonna vote for Barack.Maybe, it's that you're idea of a Hillbilly is LIL Abner & LULU.

Barack Obama for President!!!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

john sorg 2912 east bonnie brook lane waukegan il. 60087 — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:27:38 GMT

I'm not what you call computer savvy but I'll try. Your article on Barak was very good and it shows that there is good and hope out there , also a lot of ignorance and yes , bad. Hope and Faith don't come easy for some of us , I see it all to often as my ethnicity is Italian,German,Native American,and African American, My Wife is African American and our children who are dark complected and don't look mixed and whom I love with my whole soul. The mistrust the bigotry in some and the colour blindness in others I try to have hope, where as we all are Americans and want a good life for our families some would hate because of the colour of your skin rather than the content of your character .The time is close and we can change and challenge the perceptions that us as a people have of each other so we can all have a better life , aahh but there are those that don't want peace or equality because it conflicts with their agenda , thus they agitate and divide to keep us all focused on each other and enemies in far away places . You don't think there is a reason that we have not been able to find the master mind of 9/11/2001 and exact justice on him, could it be that it's convenient to have a boogy man on the loose, keeping the fear level at a high pitch so you can't focus on how we as a nation are being looted of our right to the American dream . Those who know that the biggest threat to their power is knowledge and freedom,so they foster turmoil , struggle and fear, then we lose focus and become slaves to that leash of fear and control.It's time to say STOP, lets all take a leap of faith for all our sakes break the leash and hold those accountable for the desperate straights we're in and ALL feel now, before we reach that point of no return, thank you

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Ben perzanowski, mansfield ohiop — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:28:52 GMT

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Sierra, SF — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:32:31 GMT

Mandy Jefferson Alex VA: '...VOTE FOR EXPERIENCE AND LEADERSHIP! NOT RACISM! VOTE CLINTON...'

More Clinton campaign 'astro turf' (phoiney grass roots).
They're trying to accentuate 'race'
Nothing else will work for Billary

If you're casting your vote based on 'experience'
WHY NOT VOTE MCCAIN

Billary experience includes:
Hillary's 35 years of 'experience' includes:
Monica Lewinsky
Gennifer Flowers
Juanita Broaddrick
Kathleen Willey
Whitewater
Cattle futures
Rose Law firm, rperesenting corporate interests
Wal Mart board of directors
TravelGate
HairCutGate
the NAFTA sell out
the WTO sell out
the Millenium Communications bill
Vincent Foster
the McDougals
Buddist Fund raising
Norman Hsu
Johnny Treu
Peter Paul
Marc Rich pardon
Voting for the Iraq War
Voting for Kyl/Lieberman
Voting AGAAINST the cluster bomb ban
'race-baiting'
yada, yada, tada....

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Billy, Seattle — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:32:44 GMT

If Hillary can't run a campaign or surround herself with those that can, she not fit to run a country; plane and simple.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

American Youth — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:35:20 GMT

I am one of those formerly uninterested youths people speak of. I have never been loyal to any party because neither has shown me a motivating example of a "leader" since I have been able to vote. I caucused for the first time this year and finally see a person who is motivational, inspiring, and positive. Someone who believes in this country's potential to lead by good example, rather than by force. I feel more motivated to get involved in politics than I ever have before. Not electing Obama would be another dagger in the hearts of all the people who haven't had much faith in American politics. Please stop the political dynasties.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

KayTee, Sacramento, California — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:39:04 GMT

To all the commenters who say they don't know anything about Obama: please visit his website, read his books, look at his tax returns, google any questions you may have (being sure to consider the sources, of course). And if you haven't read the comment from jaycee above, please do so. It's excellent advice for both sides.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

mike magrisi — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:40:38 GMT

MSNBC is not pro Obama - the whole country is. More Votes, More States, More Delegates - Nothing more than
accurate reporting -

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Scott, Irvine, California — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:45:44 GMT

Here's an interesting point, anyone else out there notice the big "BREAKING NEWS" about the latest terrorists now found guilty and sentenced to death by the US in its "war" on terror? Amazing that this comes out the very first day following Barack's Latest victories! Keep the sheep scared boy!

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Cindy, Yardley, PA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:46:54 GMT

I'm a republican, but thinking of voting democratic for Obama. I have listened to Hillary and can't imagine anyone believing what she saids. She's been in the White House Circle and Senate Circle for so long.. She's not what she can do for us but what she can do for herself. In her latest speeches she looks as if she is one step from crying again. Face it Hillary, you tried, you lied, and it doesn't work anymore. Your time has come and gone. Let new blood and faces in the senate and the white house, move over and make room for new ideas, honesty, and a breath of fresh air. If I remember correctly, you and your husband left the white house a mess..desks nailed shut, machines broken, things missing from the white house - That white house belongs to us - the people of the United States and you left it a mess -
So clean up your act, step aside, and let us see a new spirited individual in the white house who will take care of business, and keep our house clean.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

John Mehan — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:54:52 GMT

TO: Dems, Independants, Republicans: Those of you who still have doubts about Obama, I urge you to read the excellent article "Why Obama?" in the December issue of Atlantic Monthly (can be found on line). There you will find solid reasons in answer to this question, some you may not have thought of. The complete title of the article is "Goodbye To All That: Why Obama Matters".

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Alan Grant — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:58:35 GMT

The Michigan and Florida delegate counts are incorrectly logged. Those delegataes should be put aside until the Democratic Credentials Committee decides on seating of the respective states. To be fair, Michigan was uncontested with only Senator Clinton on the ballot. Senator Obama did not actively seek delegate votes in Florida, per DNC rules obeyance.

Edwards should wait until the convention to swing his delegate count to Obama. It makes no sense to endorse either candidate prior to the convention.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Jim Banks, Towanda, PA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 19:53:17 GMT

To those totting Mr. Obama’s website for all their answers, anyone can put up a general policy statement regarding a subject and sound knowledgeable much like a charlatan can make some general statements about a deceased relative and sound like they have a channel to the afterlife. No matter how knowledgeable you try to make Obama it doesn’t change the fact that community activist/civil rights attorney and Junior Senator are his biggest achievements and I expect my president to call upon much more knowledge and experience than that without farming out the defense of this country to others I know even less.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Chris Penn — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 19:53:32 GMT

Mr Obama has a very shady past that the repbubs will crucify him with. He will lose to McCain.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

kenn — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 19:55:00 GMT

STILL THE UNDERDOG HE WANTS THAT SO BAD to be the UNDERDOG unfortunatly you either are leading with momentom or your the underdog holding on looking for a way to win he has his suit for inaguration already picked out ALL HAIL KING OBAMA,

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Rep Forever — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 20:00:33 GMT

<<As a Democrat I deeply resent the way the black interest has insulated itself from any criticism and is using the minority status to gain advantage.>>

Liberals came up with these rules. Now they need to live by those rules. How do you like it?

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

George, Seattle WA — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 20:11:05 GMT

Odd that some people think that firstread is biased towards Senator Obama. When he won Iowa, First Read's headline was "Edwards comes in second, Clinton third in Iowa."

Now that he won Maine, the media seems to have lost all interest in the horserace.

First thoughts: Obama goes 5-for-5

Chris Schmidt, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 23:57:10 GMT

If Obama is the Democratic candidate, McCain will run as a centrist - his battles against Huckabee and against the Republican "far right" are really just a lot of window dressing that position McCain to appeal to centrists, moderates and Independents. Obama may be an inspiring speaker, but he says very little of real substance. Obama's health care plan is plainly inferior to others, and his limited record after 3 years of holding an office at the national level shows that he is as willing to cut deals with entrenched power as any other old school politician. RIght now, Obamaism is a naive cult of personality, and there is no reason to think his fine rhetoric has any chance of reforming Washington or partisan politics. Obama has never run against a serious Republican opponent, and McCain will shred Obama's credibiility on foreign policy and security. If there were an Obama presidency, it would be destined to hugely disappoint the people who have been seduced by his charm and charisma. In 2000, it was said that Bush was famously going to "learn on the job". The last thing this country needs after 8 years of Bush is another president with little or no experience. I'm a lifelong democrat and have spent 8 years loathing Bush, but I could never vote for Obama for president. People who are flocking to Obama are demonstrating all the stupidity or our system -- the fact that people vote not for intelligence or skill or who's best able to run the country, but they go for likeability.