First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

jaycee, Ventura, California — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:22:02 GMT

I’ve been wondering why so many people want to cling so tightly to this notion that Barack is all talk and no specifics, even though there is clearly little difference between the two candidates on policy proposals. It’s campaign spin, obviously, but it really seems to resonate with the uninformed for some reason. It occurs to me that maybe people are just listening to snippets of their stump speeches, and they hear Hillary deliver her laundry list of proposals while Barack talks more in broad themes and soaring rhetoric.

That’s just style, people; let’s not mistake style on the stump for a lack of substance. I suppose it’s just a question of taste, but when I listen to a stump speech I want to be inspired. I want to hear in broad terms where the candidate intends to lead us. If I want policy specifics I read books or policy papers. The most that Hillary or Barack can say at this point anyway is what they want to do if elected. What they are actually able to do in office depends entirely on their ability to rally public support and play well with others.

We aren’t choosing a dictator or CEO here. You can’t simply get elected and implement your wondrous plan. You have to convince a sizeable majority of legislators that it’s in their interest to work with you. How many Republican legislators are going to think that it’s in their political interest to help Hillary Clinton score a major political triumph like a government mandated health care system? I can say with confidence that the number will be pretty close to zero. Their jobs depend on voters whose knees jerk in unison at the mere mention of Bill or Hillary Clinton. Government mandates aren’t wildly popular with this crowd either. What good is a plan that stays on paper?

Barack doesn’t start out with thirty five years worth of bad blood and a bunker mentality. He respects those he disagrees with and they know it. We need to decide here what it is we really want. Are we only interested in chalking one up for our side or are we serious about getting things done for the American people? With little to distinguish between them on policy proposals; the important question is not which candidate has more experience or the better plan. The real question is which candidate can best rally public support and enlist the cooperation of traditional political enemies to address the challenges faced by the American people? I think the answer to that question is pretty obvious.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Former Democrat, California — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:27:33 GMT

To all of you Obama Loving and Hillary Hating Democrats.

How can you democrats be so dismissive of all the years the Clintons have fought for us. You are a bunch of sick liberal left wing freaks and I hate to be called a Democrat or be associated with you.

At the end of the day, no one, (Hillary or Obama), will have the magic number of delegates and that will mean 1972 all over again. The bottom Line is that the Republicans will win. You need to stop infighting and start embracing what both candidates have done for the democratic party. This is just typical of Democrats. EAT YOUR OWN. I am getting out of this party. I hate this bickering.

Former Democrat, California

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Pat, Boston, MA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:33:35 GMT

Will Hillary Clinton at some point in the near future just drop out of this race? It doesn't appear her campaign is ever going to get on track.

The Clintons took too much for granted going into this election. It may be too little too late at this point. No one is talking about Hillary Clinton in a positive light.

It's all Barack Obama, everywhere. This country wants him front and center and the Clintons pushed back to the sidelines. It's obvious everywhere I turn.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Francie, Boston, MA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:33:47 GMT

One word of caution about reading TOO much into those Quinnipiac polls!

They were taken FEBRUARY 6 - 12!!!

Obama's momentous SURGE didn't start until the night of the 9th!! So FOUR days of this polling - more than half - was BEFORE his latest WINNING STREAK!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Obie, Burtrum, MN — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:33:52 GMT

Do the math.

I note that the Clinton campaign is claiming they will be within 30 pledged delegates after the March 4th primaries. That means she must gain a net of over 100 that day out of the 370 available between 4 states (not just Texas and Ohio). My math suggests this is tantamount to 65% of the delegates on that day.

Elsewhere on First Read today, polls suggest a double digit lead for Clinton in Texas and Ohio but nowhere near the 30% margin she needs in Texas, and Ohio, and Vermont, and Rhode Island that day.

In other words, the suggestion she will close to within 30 pledged delegates on that day is implausible and pure spin.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

jt, okc — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:38:09 GMT

No it's not a ploy to make more money. I read about this story of Huck planning to speak at the Caymans about 1 or 2 months ago.

He has hired agents who arrange speaking events for him.

Can you make the accusation that these senators who are running for office are running so that they get a higher profile in congress? Also can you accuse them of essentially stealing the taxpayers money because they are not doing their job?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

hallihunt — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:39:02 GMT

I wouldn't count Hillary Clinton out of this race. The pundits (MSNBC among the worst) tried to do it early on in NH and it didn't happen then to their great dismay. Based on demographic data (not polls), she still has a much better chance to beat McCain in November than Obama does. Many of the states Obama has won in the primaries are staunchly Republican and will go for McCain in the Fall along with the electoral votes from those States. Many big states won by Clinton have large populations of older voters, women voters, and blue collar voters - Hillary's base. The fact that McCain is considered more of a centrist candidate will appeal to some of these demographic groups in the fall if Clinton is not the democratic nominee. Even some of the supposed "democratic base" such as voters over 65, may very well prefer a more experienced choice -someone they can relate to - over a younger, unknown candidate like Obama who has been anointed in the media as a liberal and pushed as the candidate of the young voter. This issue seems to have been overlooked in the fervor surrounding the democratic primary contest - at least among the more liberal leaning media outlets. If McCain gets those votes (and he will get many more than the media and the Obama supporters have been willing to admit) he could very well carry large (Clinton) States that would tip the balance in his favor. As for Independent voters, if Obama gets the nomination, it's a toss up as to whether he or McCain will get those votes. The Democratic party and the people of American cannot afford to let the media determine the outcome of another race for President. It seems that there are a great many naive people out there who think this election will be a slam dunk for democrats. It won't be - so those who have yet to vote in the primaries need to listen, think, and vote with these issues in mind. We can't afford another Republican president, even one like McCain, who is not considered a true conservative by many in his own party.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

OB Weiser, Dallas Tx — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:40:30 GMT

Why didn't Hillary have offices open in Texas or Ohio? Hillary didn't think those were "significant" states.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Chuck, NY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:40:47 GMT

I don't believe those Quinnipiac polls being reported above. There is no way at this point that Senator Obama has that low a number. The term Clinton fatigue has developed a new meaning. We are tired of her campaign, and prefer she drop out. It's over. You lose. The DEM party, and more importantly the nation, needs to move on. Now I know how Senator McCain feels about Huckabee staying around.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Apple pie and Baseball — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:42:06 GMT

Forget all the other garbage the candidates spew. I just want to know who will pledge to pardon Roger Clemmons? What a disgraceful reality tv show our government has turned into. So there you go, regardless of their view on war, healthcare, immigration, anything, I DONT CARE. If you want to buy my vote the candidate must only pledge to:

PARDON ROGER CLEMMONS, IF HE IS FOUND GUILTY OF ANY WRONG DOING IN THIS CURRENT INVESTIGATION.

That's all. Period. You got my vote.

Signed
A disgusted voter.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Kathryn in Bham — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:43:48 GMT

You have got to be kidding me, people, to suggest (and I dare say, you more than suggested!) that Gov. Huckabee's perseverence through the campaign process is a function of his current career rather than a commitment to his supporters and the belief that his platform is as worthy of consideration as the other candidates. Just out of curiosity, have other public figures continued to receive proceeds from public positions while on the trail?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Heidi Johnson, Pittsburgh — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:45:22 GMT

Hey guys - a little background info would be helpful when you put these polls on MSNBC. Just saw and heard the headline - "Clinton Comeback!" Huh?? She has been leading in Ohio and PA for weeks!! What you did not point out was that these polls were started before Obama's string of victories began. On TV, in teeny-tiny print at the bottom, it said they were taken Feb. 6th thru 12th. Well, his momentum of winning contest after contest didn't start until Saturday, the 9th. And he has been on a huge winning streak ever since. So let's wait for some post-Feb. 12 polls to see if Obama might close the gap some. To have your anchor breathlessly saying "Clinton has made a huge comeback!" is a tad more than misleading - it is just false! She has always led in these states! The story will be to see if she maintains this lead AFTER the Obama winning streak!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

ohio — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:46:09 GMT

Polls will change over the next 2 weeks, after Obama has campaigned in Ohio. These are pre-campaign polls.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Dee Anna Roberts ( An Obama "Only" Supporter ) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:51:13 GMT

No Love ? R U Kidding Me ?

I just turned off my T.V. because all three networks are obsessing over the "comanding lead" she has in "brand new Ohio and Pennsylvania" polls while ignoring the fact that Barack Obama has the same "commanding lead" in "brand new Wisconsin and North Carolina" polls.

The only difference is Rove Camp Clinton is only relying on two demographics. That's right. While Obama is getting "We The People" , Ms. Hilliani is counting on "We The Old White Ladies and Latinos" You all just wait and see how crushed and embarrased they will be when they lose Ohio and Pennsylvania after they lose Wisconsin. It's more embarrassing when you are expected to win. Trust me . I know ( cough* New Hampshire* ahem)

In any event , I think the crybaby tactics by the The Hilliani Clinton Campaign via "Hillary is (not) 44" website, has caused the Media to go overboard in their sucking up and they now look like they are mocking her rather than giving her good coverage so, ha ha ha !

What do I care anyway ? Her base doesn't watch MSNBC , FOX and CNN. Her base watches The View , Passions (AKA The Monkey Nurse Show ) and All My Air Head Children so they wont even see the glowing Press coverage. Some advice to Hilliani supporters. Have some coffee. I hear it makes you smart. LOL

Go Obama 2008!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Georgina, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:52:47 GMT

Those polls are very misleading. On MSNBC it said on the screen when they were taken - but you did not mention that on air or in this post! Look when they were taken - last Wednesday through Tuesday! When did Hillary start losing every contest? On Saturday! So for Wed, Thurs, Fri, and most of Sat., the polling does not reflect her later string of losses to Obama! Come on! This is a flawed poll! It doesn't give an accurate picture as to the latest storyline - which is that Obama is leading in the pledged delegate count and has won every contest since Super Tuesday!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

NoMoreLesserOf2Evils! — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:52:51 GMT

This country sux if this is what he have to choose between - a war monger who couldn't lead his people out of Vietnam, a muslim in disguise with no experience, or a woman.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Phred, NH — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:53:10 GMT

The surest sign the apocalypse is upon us has to be this election cycle. What a skeevy bunch of candidates. Yeesh. Think I'll go stick a cattle prod in my eye.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark, NC — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:56:31 GMT

Has anyone noticed Obama is the only major candidate that hasn't had any campaign problems? Both McCain and Clinton have had big financial & staff problems. None of them really has any executive experience. But in watching their campaigns, I'd say Obama is the better manager of the three. He planned better hands down. With all of the "experience" of McCain & Clinton they have managed their resources poorly. Imagin if Clinton had the personal (lack of) wealth of Obama (net worth $1.3M, house worth $1.1M), she'd be out of the race after Feb 5. A $5M loan to herself??!! If Clinton manages the national budget like that, we'll all have to "make a loan" to the government to get by. Maybe if McCain can figure out this economy thing-a-ma-jig, he would do better.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Alan, NJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:57:06 GMT

Jaycee, here are the specifics of plan that has so many holes in it. This is from the BO website.

This is why I think there shoulbe a debate (or even a speech to answer these points)

Obama will make available a new national health plan to all Americans, including the self-employed and small businesses, to buy affordable health coverage that is similar to the plan available to members of Congress.

Is this a goverment program? If so will this not encorage businesses to drop health insurance as now the goverment is offering a subsidized program?

Employer Contribution: Employers that do not offer or make a meaningful contribution to the cost of quality health coverage for their employees will be required to contribute a percentage of payroll toward the costs of the national plan. Small employers that meet
certain revenue thresholds will be exempt.

No details?

Mandatory Coverage of Children: Obama will require that all children have health care coverage. Obama will expand the number of options for young adults to get coverage, including allowing young people up to age 25 to continue coverage through their parents'
plans.

How will this mandate be enforced?

Subsidies. Individuals and families who do not qualify for Medicaid or SCHIP but still need financial assistance will receive an income-related federal subsidy to buy into the new public plan or purchase a private health care plan.

At what income levels would this subsidy be available? Would it be regional due to the higher cost of living in certain areas? Would this subsidy cover employer based insurance?

Guaranteed eligibility. No American will be turned away from any insurance plan because of illness or pre-existing conditions.

Would this mandate to insurance companaies not raise costs? If so, how does this encourage an increase in competition that is also mentioned in your plan?

Simplified paperwork and reined in health costs.

Has anybody in your campaign done a study of the effort required by consumers, providors and payors that support such a goal? From my personal experience payers are all for electronic systems as it would reduce their costs but providors have no incentive to install such systems as the ROI cannot justify it for thousands of individual medical offices. Do you plan to offer incentives or subsudies to providors?

Tackle disparities in health care. Obama will tackle the root causes of health disparities by addressing differences in access to health coverage and promoting prevention and public health, both of which play a major role in addressing disparities. He will also challenge the medical system to eliminate inequities in health care through quality measurement and reporting, implementation of effective interventions such as patient navigation programs, and diversification of the health workforce.
Require full transparency about quality and costs. Obama will require hospitals and providers to collect and publicly report measures of health care costs and quality, including data on preventable medical errors, nurse staffing ratios, hospital-acquired
infections, and disparities in care. Health plans will also be required to disclose the percentage of premiums that go to patient care as opposed to administrative costs.

Two different points in the plan that will require collection and processing by providors to meet goverment reporting requirements. Will these new requirements not add to costs? How many nurses, nursing assistants etc. will be tied up with reporting requirements rather performing patient care? Speak to any nurse and find out how much of their time is already taken up due state reporting requirements.

These are just a few of the points from his healthcare program. In my opinion it doesn't add up.

Also, regarding the comment by BO that people who become ill and are only required to pay back premiums makes no sense. (This can be found on the CNN debate transcript)

1) How far back must they pay their premiums? (a month, a year, since the system starts?)
2) If they cannot pay are they refused treatment?
3) Why buy insurance at all? It would make more sense to the individual to put the premiums in a savings account, and if you get ill there's no penalty. If you don't get ill as BO puts it "you have gamed the system".

Point 3 is also the crucial one when talking about lowering costs. How can you lower the costs of a premium based system when fewer people are paying? The point about everybody being mandated into the system immediately increases the number of premiums and the cost of premiums to all go down.

BTW I personally believe that a single payer system with no insurance companies is the way to go.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

tom toledo oh — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:57:41 GMT

I think Dick Cheney has proven that years of experience, a battling bunker mentality that knows how to overcome spewing criticism, and a detailed agenda for this country doesn't mean squat. The Clinton/Bush dynasty has worn out its welcome. It's time for a change, even if the candidate doesn't want to lay out a detailed plan so the Repubs will have six months to spin it and tear it apart.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sheila Martin, Cleveland, Ohio — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:58:36 GMT

Quinnipiac Poll - February 6 to February 12

When was it clear that Obama had captured the lead in pledged delegates? On the night of the 12th! So this poll does not show how people are reacting to his latest momentum. Just saw on MSNBC the headline Clinton Makes Comeback - comeback?? When was she ever down in Ohio or Pennsylvania polls? Very misleading, to say the least.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

One More Dem Who Won't Vote For Obama — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:59:16 GMT

You people have been duped. Of course we can always count on the media to side with the wrong candidate just like now. And the American people have just gotten dumber. If you believe in fairy tales then please come back to reality. Obama is being funded by the companies that want to charge you 30% interest, he is being funded by a company that is working with GE so its hard to believe in MSNBC or NBC or even CNBC. I have heard Joe in the morning state very clear he my talk great about Obama but, he will not vote for him. But of course he works for GE so they have to talk big about him.

If you are interested in how some real dems. feel about him why don't you check out the Black Agenda, and check out what former Ambassador Joe Wilson has said. And check out his comments about McCain, Wellstone and many others in the senate. And Why did he vote for Condi Rice?
lets be honest his sh t smells really bad, we aren't supoose to check his record because he's black and it will offend someone, well fact someone is already offended by the total stupidity of this country.

Please do your research its easy, this is not a man who is going to help the poor and the middle class not when he's in bed with the banks, and nuclear power companies.

I Hope the rest of the states wise up and see him for what he is, but I know that won't happen.

And his supporters should quite their snivling, whining, and complaining and grow up.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

I Believe in Hillary — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:00:04 GMT

I just don't believe Obama is the answer to our country's problems. He is not ready to lead this country, and is he ready to battle against his Muslim
friends? Hillary is the obvious choice for an outstanding presidential candadate that knows and can endure the presidency and help this country out of the rat hole Bush has gotten us into.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

DCortez, Houston, Texas — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:00:17 GMT

I was a Huckabee supporter until yesterday. Enjoy your time in the Caymans.

I need the cash ... Guess what Mike, we all need the cash. I know my family needs to eat next week, the week after, the month after, and so on and so forth.

I call Douchebaggery!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

CJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:02:09 GMT

Why upheave the party just to get the nomination. More examples of her proposed presidency..and to me it seems scary. I won't vote for her, the Clinton's have and always will be damaging to the party. Look at what loyalty to Bush got the GOP.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

diane — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:04:36 GMT

Why is MSNBC leading off with the top story of the Quinnpac polls?
She has been leading by a large margin in these states all season. It is known that Obama heads into them behind, just like in other states. But, after the campaigns come to the states the polls tighten.
But, MSNBC makes it sound like this is a big deal. It is nothing new or unusual. Wait until the time is closer to the primary and then, talk about those polls.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

CJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:06:22 GMT

Alan that's not going to happen. With Hillary you are forced to pay for the Insurance companies' plans. With Obama it's mandatory. She will have to make the same decisions you just laid out b/c no matter what Dem is nominated they will face the same problems. The notion it's different for Obama or Clinton is rediculous. So then it comes down to who is the better leader and coalition builder.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Lisa, Minnesota — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:08:34 GMT

I feel that the argument that Obama isn't specific enough with his plans to change America is a bunch of crock! That is a talking point that his opposition is trying to make stick. If you want to know exactly what he will do go directly to his website and you will know if you really want to know! I know exactly what his policies will be because I investigated because I really wanted to know.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:08:45 GMT

Not to be discouraged folks about Ohio and PA. The double digit poll leads reported for Hillary in Ohio and Pennsylvania does not hurt Obama but rather helps him. Have you guys not been watching the strategy in both camps. Go into a State primary saying you are the underdog rather then the front runner. It does two things. First, it makes your own campaign staff work harder to get out the vote in those States (well ,perhaps not Hillarys) and secondly, it incites those who do support you to come out in bigger numbers when they see you need them because you are behind in the State polls. The ground swell for Obama in both Ohio and PA is just beginning.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Rebecca Armstrong, Annapolis, MD — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:09:38 GMT

Wow, MSNBC. How can you mention the above Quinnipiac polls above and NOT tell us WHEN they were taken? I had to go to Google to find out! And guess what? Some of the polling data is over a week old! In politics that is an ETERNITY!

This poll was conducted Wednesday, February 6 through Tuesday, February 12. Gosh, let's do the math. Barack Obama's non-stop VICTORIES started Saturday evening - so... for Wednesday through Saturday the polling does not take these clobberings of Mrs. Clinton into account! And his capture of the Delegate Lead did not occur until Tuesday evening! After the polling results! Hmmm... should we really take this poll very seriously??

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:09:43 GMT

'...Clinton campaign essentially had no plan after February 5. “The Texas and Ohio presidential primaries, on March 4, have become must-win contests for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, her advisers say. So why is she just opening campaign field offices across those states? The primary in Pennsylvania, on April 22, is also a crucial battleground. So why is her campaign telling its most prominent supporter there, Gov. Edward G. Rendell, that there is not enough money now for his proposed piece of direct mail to voters?”...'

Does this sound a candidate that will 'be ready from day one' ??

PUHLEESE !!

Ditzy, disorganized Hillary can't run her own campaign....... How can she RUN AMERICA ?
HOW CAN SHE PASS HEALTH CARE ?

Hiring cronies and incompetents sounds like the Bush modus operandi

Ready from day one ?

RIGHT !!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Nancy Braggs Tulsa, Ok — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:09:55 GMT

When is any network going to stop talking about Hillary and start digging into Obama's past and record? Are they afraid of Sharpton. Is he exempt from fairness because he is black? This isnt just a job, this is President of the US!!?? Doesnt anyone get this? He is not ready and not experienced. GET REAL

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

S. Ruff — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:10:18 GMT

Those polls in TX and OH are old. She is without a doubt the favorite there and it is an uphill battle to eat into her vote there but to pretend it is news is rather weak.

Clinton will do whatever she needs to do to get the nomination. She is smart, has a powerful political machine and anyone who counts her out does so at their peril.
I am just amazed that Barrack Obama has stuck to his refusal to engage in slash and burn politics even when he was way behind in the polls. She is not going to return the favor. The next few weeks will be interesting and no matter who is the nominee it is an exciting time in politics.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Nancy Braggs Tulsa, Ok — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:10:49 GMT

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:10:54 GMT

...and by the way I'm with "Former Democrat, California"...if this is the way you little snot nosed ObaMANIACS treat the Clintons after all the crap they put up with from 'Repukes' over the years....then perhaps the rest of us in the Democratic Party neeed to teach you all a lesson by electing John McCain.
I don't want a simpy-whimpy little punk like Obama in charge of the most powerful military on earth.
Time to cross the aisle and vote for a real man, a true hero.
Vet's against Obama!
DEMOCRATS FOR McCAIN, 2008!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Alan, NJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:11:53 GMT

CJ, please be specific as to what is not going to happen? If more people are in the system it should (I won't say will) lower premiums. A non-mandatory system is just open to abuse I describe.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

YELLOW DOG DEM. — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:11:56 GMT

HEY, FORMER DEMOCRAT, CALIFORNIA, DON'T GIVE UP NOW.

WE MAY BE DISCOURAGED BUT DON'T GIVE UP THE FIGHT JUST YET. I REALLY DON'T THINK THE MEANESS IS COMING FROM THE DEM'S. I THINK THE GARBAGE IS COMING OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF THE EXTREME RIGHT. SOUNDS TO ME LIKE THE SAME OLD DIRTY TRICKS USED AT EVERY ELECTION.
THIS TIME THEY ARE OUT TO STEAL THE ELECTION BY STUFFING THE BALLOT BOX WITH VOTES FOR OBAMA.
THIS WAS CONFIRMED LAST NIGHT BY DICK MORRIS, AN OLD TIME CLINTON HATER. I THINK PRES. CLINTON FIRED HIM. HE SAID THE REPUBLICANS KNOW McCAIN HAS IT TIED UP, SO THEY WILL VOTE FOR OBAMA TO GET HILLARY OUT OF THE RACE.

THE FIX IS IN!!! HILLARY NEEDS EVERY VOTE THAT CAN BE SQUEEZED OUT. WHEN ITS TIME TO VOTE IN TEXAS AND OTHER STATES WHO HAVE NOT YET VOTED, GO VOTE FOR HILLARY AND TAKE SOMEONE WITH YOU. WE DON'T WANT A REPUBLICAN PICKING OUR WINNER FOR US, BECAUSE IT ASSURE A WIN FOR THE REBUBLICANS AGAIN THIS YEAR.

LET FLORIDIANS VOICE BE HEARD THIS YEAR.
THEIR CHOICE IS CLEAR.
HILLARY THE REAL DEAL.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sherri Mesquite, Texas — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:12:59 GMT

You all say there isn't a difference in the policies of Obama and Clinton...there is a major one in my eyes. She has the experience to get things done (7 years vs 18 months)she has a track record showing the results of her hard work. To imply she is of the same mold as Bush/Cheney is just plain false (Obama supporters think if they repeat something over and over it makes it a fact, kinda like the Bush/Cheney system!) You can all count Hillary out, I would love you too because that is when she is at her best! The tried and tough candidate will still be standing at the end of the day to lead this country! Watch Alicia Keyes video "Superwoman" that's our girl! Hillary '08

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:13:16 GMT

"...The notion it's different for Obama or Clinton is rediculous. So then it comes down to who is the better leader and coalition builder. ..."
CJ (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:06 AM)

By "coalition builder" you really mean, "BULLSHIT ARTIST" don't you?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Peninnah HundinliebMarksz, Cleveland,Ohio — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:14:07 GMT

srf01008,14022008. will not vote for Hilary,Clinton or Barak,Obama...The only democrat I would vote for is SenatorJohnMcCain.,with all that denial going for a former republican the democracy is all they have for facists and capitolists....JesseVenturi,with
wetsuit,camoflauge, and mauser...it is what the united states produces for our youth..not an american
but a prussian as well!
clie,IrinaSaint,mylo.,hannahHM01011dgz

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sherri, Charleston WV — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:14:52 GMT

jaycee, your comment is pure poetry

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

susan leff, Niantic, ct — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:16:11 GMT

Hillary has the experience, if not the press-appointed halo. Why is it that so many men would rather elect an inexperienced male than a strong capable female? There is still a race issue in this country, but it is with the female race. If Hillary had been linked to the Chicago slum lord, Rezko, the press would have had a field day. Go to the polls, ladies, and show them what "CHANGE" really means! And maybe the press will print THAT!!!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

jack, burlington,vt — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:16:23 GMT

I think the media is so biased. If obama has a lose - and clinton wins it's"Obama alsmost won" If obama wins its"Hillary is out" I think that the dem party has so messed up the vote. punishing states that had the nerve to choose their own voting days...What is that all about? Why in god's name should 3 small states lead off - and all the resultos from those small states be so important. I wish we voted all on the same day - let every vote count. As to the florica votes. The people in florida did vote - and only hillary had the grace to thank them even if it didn't count. Obama did place tv ads in stations near the fla border - so in reality - he did campaign there. The press have blessed him from the begining.
I can tell you that the rep. party will tear him apart. You will see the nuclear reactor thing come out, etc. I as a hillary supporter and long time democrat will not vote for obama - i will strongly support McCain - it's the experience thing. I also hate people that talk in grand gesturing sound bites.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

oknOK — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:16:23 GMT

Jaycee, do you really think IF the Democrats get elected that any Republican is going to be that helpful to the new President? I'm sorry, but if Obama is president, he will be facing REALITY where his rah-rah, fluffy speeches aren't going to fly with those well-versed in policy. Also, we do have to decide what we want. I guess we know now that with Obama we're going to be BROKE! We have an economy in serious trouble. Yet, in one day, I heard of just THREE new programs proposed by Obama that total over $100 BILLION. This are NEW spending with no revenue sources. And, $850 billion is included in his global peace bill that is being introduced in Congress today. $850 BILLION to go outside this country! And, this from the man who says the money spent on the war could have been used for our infra-structure, our schools, etc. That was hooey! He's just shifting dollars from the war to other foreign recipients. Surprise, surprise. Of course, nobody would push the man to tell his plans. And, don't tell me to go read his slickly-developed website which is nothing more than a marketing tool. I want to hear him say it. Did anybody notice when he was speaking to the auto workers that he is pretty boring and stutters and stammers when he doesn't have his scripted rah rah speech to rely on. I've never voted Republican, but I will if Obama is elected because we CANNOT afford to pile up more debt especially at a time when our citizens and country need so much. Obama preaches HOPE. Well, if he's elected, I HOPE we survive.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:16:52 GMT

The most CROOKED, CORRUPT CO-PRESIDENCY in HISTORY

From Politico.com:

'...Clinton's past is not through haunting her

By: Roger Simon
Feb 14, 2008 05:57 AM EST

Mark Penn released a memo saying that Clinton’s having “withstood the full brunt” of the Republican attack machine is “one of the key arguments for Hillary’s candidacy.”

One of Hillary Clinton’s last lines of defense against the onslaught that is Barack Obama is the notion that she has been “vetted” and he has not.

All the bad stuff that can be thrown at her already has been, she argues, and that gives her an advantage over Obama.

As Clinton said this week in a televised Politico/WJLA interview: “One thing you know about me is that I have been vetted. I’ve been through this. I understand exactly what is coming at me, and there isn’t any new information. I mean, it’s just more of the same. It’s been recycled over and over again. I don’t think we can say that about my opponent.”

And, indeed, on Monday, Mark Penn, her chief strategist, released a memo saying that Clinton’s having “withstood the full brunt” of the Republican attack machine is “one of the key arguments for Hillary’s candidacy.”

I think that may be wishful thinking.

First, even if one assumes all the old accusations about Clinton have been put to rest — a dubious point — she keeps raising new questions about herself.

Take the matter of her tax returns. Obama has released his, and Clinton won’t release hers, she says, until after she is the Democratic nominee.

Why? She gives no reason. She says she files an ethics statement with the Senate, which is true, but so does Obama, and yet he also has released his tax returns. Clinton refuses to do so until after the Democratic convention.

Does this make sense to anybody? If she is going to do it eventually, why not do it now, while Democrats are still voting on her?

Keeping the returns secret just raises doubts and suspicions and kicks a hole in the case that she has been fully vetted...'

Trust me, I'm Hillary Clinton

If John McCain gets the nomination, we are going to hear that he was turned into a “Manchurian candidate” when he was a prisoner of war. If Obama wins the nomination, we are going to hear a lot more about Tony Rezko and the Exelon Corp. And if Clinton is the nominee, get ready for a reprise of Whitewater and her cattle future trading, to name just two.

In presidential politics, the past is not just prologue. It’s ammunition....'

The Clinton legacy:

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
Maggie Williams' conver up of Vincent Foster death
the McDougals
Buddist Fund raising
Norman Hsu
Johnny Treu
Peter Paul
Marc Rich pardon
Carlos A. Vignali pardon
Roger Clinton pardon
Voting for the Iraq War
Voting for Kyl/Lieberman
Voting AGAINST the cluster bomb ban
'race-baiting'
the 'Politics of personal destruction'
'demonizing the opposition'
30 years of open, public adultery by Bill Clinton

That's a LOT of 'EXPERIENCE' Billary
That's a lot of 'vetting'

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

RobK, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:17:37 GMT

Once OH, TX, and PA gets word of Hillary's support of NAFTA, her working on the board of director for anti-union Wal-Mart, her lack of transparency of her White House records, tax returns...they too will see the light.

And of course, when they'll realize she doesn't have a chance in hell to beat McCain, then those poll numbers will change.

We got 3 weeks still till those elections!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Linda, Webster Groves, Missouri — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:17:37 GMT

These Quinnipiac polls are outdated! For most of the days they were conducted, Obama had not begun this latest phenomenal surge! They were taken between the 6th and 12th. Plus, Hillary has ALWAYS led in these states! What's the big news here? I don't get it. Let's see what the polls say after the Obama amazing "Big MO" is factored in.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

POLpursun — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:17:40 GMT

Sen. Obama will be the underdog until he goes home or goes to the White House, whichever comes first.

One does not have to be either an Obamaphile or a Clintonphobe to opine that the Clintons fighting has been mainly about themselves. Quite frankly, this was obvious before Obama was ever heard about. Indeed, notwithstanding the unattractive window that the Clintons opened on themselves, when faced with the surprising threat to her expected coronation, the support level persists regardless of Obama's surges.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Independent GA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:17:45 GMT

Clinton fatigue is an understatement. The media, the republicans and Clinton are trying to find dirt on Obama. The paper in NY accuses Obama for making up that he dabbled in drugs in his younger days because they couldnt find anyone to back up his drug use. What in the world is going on here? You attack someone because there is no dirt to be found on that someone. What an idiotic concept. I hope that Obama is who he says he is. I couldnt vote for Clinton because of Bill. My head said vote for McCain. But in the end, I voted for change.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

nurseratchet — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:17:45 GMT

If I were Senator Obama I wouldn't want to debate either. He might be asked (though unlikely since the moderators all throw him slow pitches) why a major facet of his plan for combatting climate change is to build nuclear power plants. It seems an odd choice considering that there is still no viable way to dispose of the waste. He must know this since he got on the Richardson and Clinton bandwagon (reluctantly) to come out against Yucca Mountain (at least when he got to Nevada). So why would someone like Barack Obama advocate nuclear energy?

Let me answer that one for you Barack: because, according to the LA Times, in 2007 (after you declared you wouldn't take lobbyist and PAC money) you took $160,000 from the Excelon Corp., which just so happens to be the nation's largest operator of nuclear power plants. You also took $1000 checks from John P. Novack (a representative of Excelon), and James Monk, the president of the Illinois Energy Association; a trade group that represents Commonwealth Edison, an Illinois based utility company which happens to be a wholly owned subsidiary of Excelon Corp.

Or maybe he doesn't want to talk about the California lobbyists for AT&T and United Airlines gave him $2300. Or maybe he doesn't want to talk about how he took a combined $170,000 from Goldman Sachs and Citigroup who, at the time of their contribution, had numerous issues pending in Washington. They also happened to spend $4.6 million on lobbying in 2006.

Or maybe he doesn't want to talk about the fact that at an Obama fundraiser in Tallahassee he took money from Florida statehouse lobbyists representing trial attorneys, the insurance industry, fast-food chains, and sugar cane growers. Now you Obamaphiles will no doubt say that Obama only said he wouldn't take money from FEDERAL lobbyists. Well, that only goes so far, as noted by the law firm Akerman Senterfitt. Members of that firm gave Obama $7000. On its website Akerman notes, as reported in the LA Times, that, "Akerman combines Tallahassee connections with, 'an involved federal political action committee' to provide its clients 'with an enviable level of access.'"

Obama is not as he appears. His new motto is, "Change you CAN believe in." But it's obvious that Obama is really change you SHOULDN'T believe in.

Once again the American electorate is proving that it will believe whatever anyone says as long as they say it enough, and the media tells them it's okay to believe it. I would think that Americans would be outraged at a candidate who makes promises, but doesn't keep them; who says he's bringing hope and change, but is really just telling new lies and playing the same old games.

Thank you Obamaphiles for proving Ken Kesey's adage true: "In any given situation there are always going to be more dumb people than smart people."

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

David P, Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:18:44 GMT

I've been surprised to hear a lot of Republicans here in Ohio saying that since the Republican primary is meaningless, they plan to sneak over and vote for Obama, of course, they'll never vote for him in November.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Obama Will Never Get My Vote — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:20:20 GMT

A mandate is a mandate and you to could be fined or have your wages taken from you. And think about that it could mean alot of hard working families could be will be punished.

And quite buying into his website please do some real
research and see just how deep in bed with the banking industry he is. I do not 30% interest remember he said he voted for that bill in the debate against Edwards thats when Edwards realized eveyone is being duped. Read the articles on the Black Agenda Report about him you will see a different Obama.

He isn't getting my vote not someone so in bed with huge corporations. Check and see who is donating to him. I believe GE is backing him to and that explains why MSNBC,NBC,CNBC all love him.

I hope Edwards endorses Clinton, aleast we already know what were getting.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:20:48 GMT

PLEASE !! PLEASE !! PLEASE !!

Call, Email or Write your Democratic Congressional Representative, Senators and Governnor

Ask them NOT TO COUNT the Michigan or Florida votes

EVERYBODY AGREED THEY WOULDN'T COUNT

Don't count them now

Ask your Democratic representatives if they will follow the will of the Democratic electorate ...

Or use the nomination as an opportunity for personal enrichment ?

DO IT NOW !!

Don't let the Democratic nomination be 'stolen' or 'tainted'

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:20:56 GMT

OH- The Cleveland Plain Dealer-
The largest newspaper in Ohio, has endorsed Barack Obama for President...

Ohio Democrats on March 4 can play a critical role in this historic decision.

As usual with intraparty battles, the policy and ideological differences between Clinton and Obama are slight. Both share the party's liberal traditions on social and domestic issues. Both are committed to expanding health coverage and to closing the gap between rich and poor. Both oppose the Bush administration's strategy in Iraq. Both promise to break America's addiction to carbon-based fuels.

Given these similarities, Ohio Democrats have to ask themselves which candidate is more likely, first, to win the White House, and, then, to persuade a closely divided country to embrace his or her vision of change. Put even more pointedly: Who is more likely to change the world of a child born in 2008?

The answer, we think, is Barack Obama.
--
http://blog.cleveland.com/openers/2008/02/plain_dealer_endorses_obama_mc.html#obama

PA – Philadelphia Inquirer endorse Barack Obama

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

nurseratchet — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:22:37 GMT

Obama will tell you one thing and do another; he failed to speak up for Maytag workers while taking contribution from the owner of Maytag. Hilary delivers the tools to build our own lives. We that support her, Latinos, women, and working people, ask for help and offer help when needed by those that stand by us. She has been there for us and we need to be there for her now. In the memory of my mother and my grandmother whose burdens were heavy and for the future of my sons and daughters whose world is in peril, I support and join Hilary in her struggle for real and meaningful change. To my brothers and sisters in the Latino community, thank you for standing with Hilary to build the new coalition for change.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:23:26 GMT

Indiana-- Former U.S. Congressman and 9/11 Commissioner Tim Roemer today endorsed Barack Obama for President, citing his foreign policy judgment and his crossover appeal among independents and Republicans. Roemer represented the Third District of Indiana in Congress from 1991-2003.
----------------------------------

LOUISVILLE, KY –Congressman John Yarmuth (D-KY), the class president of the 44 Democrats in the House, endorsed Barack Obama for President, citing his crossover appeal to Republicans and independents and the powerful coalition he is building to bring change.
"The change America needs won't come easy. It requires the kind of leadership that ignites passion, instills hope, and inspires us to work together for a better tomorrow," Congressman Yarmuth said. "As we strive to take on the great challenges our nation faces, we need a leader who will stand up to special interests and build a coalition that will bring change we can believe in. Because he puts problem solving before politics, Barack Obama has the unique capacity to build support from Americans of all parties from Kentucky to Idaho to Connecticut, and he will lead us to recapture our potential when as President.”
------------------------------------

Mayor Bill Beck (Durham, NC) endorse Barack Obama

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Chloe, Miami — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:23:42 GMT

Why is this even NEWS that Hillary is leading in polls in PA and Ohio? SHE ALWAYS HAS LED IN THESE STATES!

The polls are not up-to-date if more than half of the polling days were before Senator Obama started winning every contest! Let's wait and see what some POST-FEB.12 polls say!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

No Vote For Obama — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:24:09 GMT

McCain needs to start showing Obama's record for what it really is.
Screw this we can't attack his record because he black, he has no problem attacking anyone else.

GO GET HIM MCCAIN

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

raider dem, maryland — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:26:08 GMT

Obamaniacs, relax! Wow, 83% positive coverage of your candidate, and you completely freak out when you see something positive for Clinton.
-----------------------------------------------------
Why is MSNBC leading off with the top story of the Quinnpac polls?
Diane

Those polls are very misleading. On MSNBC it said on the screen when they were taken - but you did not mention that on air or in this post!
Georgina, Charlotte, NC

I don't believe those Quinnipiac polls being reported above. There is no way at this point that Senator Obama has that low a number.
Chuck, NY

One word of caution about reading TOO much into those Quinnipiac polls!

They were taken FEBRUARY 6 - 12!!!
Francie, Boston, MA
-----------------------------------------------------
Clinton supporters don't take much stock in polls (see CA, MA, NH, NJ), why do you care so much about them?

Don't worry, MSM will have some irrelevant, albeit 'positive' coverage of Obama sometime later today. Gotta maintain that balance.

Still voting for a democrat in November, no matter WHO the nominee is (can't say the same for Michelle Obama sometimes), but McCain really caught on to something with this statement:

Instead, Mr. McCain zeroed in on another long-held annoyance, a perception that Mr. Obama wears a political halo.

“I don’t seek the presidency on the presumption that I am blessed with such personal greatness,” Mr. McCain said. “That history has anointed me to save my country in its hour of need.”

Ouch.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

truVoice, Phila., PA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:26:29 GMT

RE: Obama propsed $210B employment plan...is this to fix Mexico's infrastructure? Let's look closer people!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Adam, Chicago, IL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:28:15 GMT

obamatruth.org

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:28:27 GMT

Rasmussen daily tracking poll is showing a double digit Obama national lead now. Yesterday's jump wasn't an outlier. This thing is tipping his way like a flat pan of water - small tip gets a lot of water moving fast.

In that environment, its unlikely Clinton can pull the decisive wins she needs in every remaining state to catch up with pledged delegates. And its unlikely super delegates will overturn Obama's lead, especially given that flat tipping pan effect.

I think the time has come to concede.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Tom, GA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:28:42 GMT

Of course the Clinton campaign is now ready to take "potentially incendiary steps." Its now being run by Maggie Williams, last seen by the Secret Service taking documents from Vince Foster's office and the gatherer of checks in the Clinton White House from Johnny Chung.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnny_Chung

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marcus — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:28:53 GMT

If Hillary is the candidate, the democrats will lose for sure. There is a good 5-10% of voters in the middle that won't vote for her just because she is Hillary. Please let the Donkeys be dumb enough to nominate Hillary!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

juan,ft lauderdale, fl — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:29:49 GMT

Huckabee is in the race only to make $$$$$$$ PERIOD! How nice to be in The Caymens for a speech and than maybe deposit it in one of those infamous banks. The Huskter is more like James Baker and other t.v evangelicals who make tons of money from their adoring flock of fans who are so brainwashed they will give up their hard earned cash so the preachers can buy lear jets and live in hugh mansions. Can you say Elmer Gantry?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

asdf — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:31:36 GMT

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

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:32:17 GMT

Chuck, NY: '...I don't believe those Quinnipiac polls being reported above. There is no way at this point that Senator Obama has that low a number...'

Sorry, Chuck....
I don't understand those numbers, either....
BUT... OBAMA HAS TO WIN one big state

His campaign should pick the best target, Ohio, Texas or Pennsylvania and SATURATE IT with ad and campaign funds
If he wins one.... HE's IN
Send your best organizers to one of these states, preferable Ohio a real swing state (Texas is Republican and Pennsylvania is Democratic)

He should send most of what he's got to Ohio and 'Knock Out' the Clintons

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Susan E. North Branch, MN — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:33:39 GMT

They didn't have a plan for post Feb 5th because they had the Clinton campaign had the arrogance to assume that the nomination would be secured by then, while ignoring the reality and seriousness of the Obama candidacy. Now they are scrambling. Also the chronic disingenuosness of the clintons has trickled down to their loyal staff, the Atlantic http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200802u/patti-solis-doyle noted that misinformation about how well they were funded isn't the first time Solis-Doyle took a spin to outrageous proportions which resulted in major money shortages for a Clinton campaign. And she is running on being the most effective "manager" of the white house? Give me a break.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mary, Georgia — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:33:58 GMT

Former Democrat ... You say that the clintons fought for us, HOW. By letting the terrorist we had in custody go so he could fly into the WTC. By refusing Sudans offer (offered more than once) of bin laden, so he could finish his preporations for 9/11. They have done NOTHING GOOD for us.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Geralyn — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:34:02 GMT

I am sick of the Obama parade that has been led by the media and then followed by the same amount of sheep that follwed the Bush parade.

Obama will win the democratic nomination because the media has only given positive messages about him and only negative messages about Hillary. Everyone forgets how well the country was doing during the Clinton administration. All we hear is negatives. Fine, after 8 years of no experience Bush, we will have no experience Obama. Don't get me wrong, I like Obama, but Hillary is the better choice. She will get things done, not just talk about getting things done.

As a life long democrat, I have finally become disillusioned with the whole thing. People no longer think for themselves. WE will pay again...mark my words.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Dave, Austin — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:34:08 GMT

Hillary is toast. She's down here pandering to Mexican's who obviously have a lesson to learn about politics. First off, when she was first lady how many times did she visit? How many tortilla's did she wolf down in your barrios? Oh...I see.

If you can't see what this woman is about then I feel for you. When she loses that state, don't expect her to thank you guys for anything, she'll simply hop on her broom and shoot off to OH. She has a habit of trashing states she loses so do yourselves a favor and insist on cash for the burritos.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:34:20 GMT

Latina for Obama--
Rosa Cabrera talks about why being the daughter of Mexican immigrants has influenced her decision to back Barack Obama
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yfzb9tXae1Q&eurl=http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hqblog

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

Latinos for Obama
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHE_UZdUdwY

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:35:51 GMT

To David P, Columbus, Ohio
Maybe you meant Coulter for Clinton.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Debbie, West Bloomfield, MI — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:36:53 GMT

Clearly the Clinton campaigns push to seat delegates from Michigan shows how desperate they are. I am from MI and voted in the democratic primary. We voters were told our votes would not count because we would not get any delegates seated. The candidates were told delegates would not be seated and John Edwards and Barack Obama played by their party’s rules and did not put their names on the ballot. Hillary Clinton put her name on the ballot and is now seeking to get those delegates seated.

As a Michigan voter who did not have the option to vote for my democratic candidate of choice because his name was not on the ballot and as a Michigan voter who knows many people who did not even bother to vote because they were told their vote was not going to count anyway, I am outraged.

To allow the democratic delegates to count in Michigan when not all of the candidates were on the ballot is utterly unfair and unjust.

There should be more publicity about Senator Clinton’s duplicitous behavior with regard to the Michigan primary. She kept her name on the ballot violating her party’s rules and is now trying to change the rules in the middle of the game because she is losing. I think people would be less likely to vote for her if they realized how she is attempting to cheat to win.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Olivia, Clemson, SC — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:37:40 GMT

Why are these Quinnipiac polls news?

They are OLD! Some of the data is over a week old! They were taken Feb 6-12. Hillary started on her losing streak Feb 9. She has lost every single contest. But this info is only partially reflected in these polls. Plus, why is it news that she leads in Ohio and Pennsylvania - hasn't she always led in these states?

A little fairness is in order - at least tell your readers and MSNBC viewers when these outdated polls were taken.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:37:49 GMT

Iowa Governor Chet Culver endorses Barack Obama for President--

“Senator Obama has been fighting for ordinary Americans ever since he was a community organizer more than two decades ago. He has the unique combination of real life experience fighting for ordinary Americans, and the skill to bring Democrats, Republicans, and Independents together to get things done.”

“I strongly believe Senator Barack Obama's candidacy will unite the party and his administration will unite the country."
-

Chet Culver was elected Governor of Iowa in 2006 after serving as Secretary of State and Attorney General. Culver has been an advocate for consumers, working families and the environment throughout his career. Culver helped boost the civic participation of young voters and others in Iowa by creating the Iowa Student Political Awareness Club.

Iowa Governor Chet Culver endorsed Barack Obama yesterday in Omaha, Nebraska...2/7/8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpB0qrBy-RE&eurl=http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hqblog

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:38:10 GMT

ohio: '...Polls will change over the next 2 weeks, after Obama has campaigned in Ohio. These are pre-campaign polls...'

Focus on Ohio, and GET IT DONE

Obama needs to keep talking about POCKET BOOK issues

That will help him take constituencies from Hillary
Blue Collar workers, union members, white ethnics, Latinos...

Obama has a solution for Social Security, Hillary doesn't ..... TALK ABOUT IT

Obama's health care plan is as good as Hillary's...
But Hillary is GETTING MASSIVE CONTRIBUTIONS FROM INSURANCE and PHARMACEUTICAL CORPORATIONS

Talk about that

Talk about taxes and education and a stimulus package once your inaugerated

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Paul Idusogie, Sr., Woodbury, Minnesota — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:38:52 GMT

It is absurd to suggest that Gov. Huckabee will sacrifice his integrity and campaign for a few dollars. Why are we so quick to suggest otherwise? I believe our judgment of him is rooted in our dislike for his policies and for what he stands for. As the saying goes - "He who throws dirt loses ground".

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sean, Chattanooga, TN — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:39:26 GMT

Obama has to win the bread and butter white folk with a more populus mesaage. He has to be a new and improved Bill Clinton of 1992. He has to "put America back to work" and he needs to add to his lexicon the "hard work of hope".

Obama doesn't need to choose either oratory or policy. He can do both. He can maintain large rallies, do town hall question-answer after the speech and be specific. The roundtables seem to work well. The imager if nothing else is good and homey.

He should also hold a closed door economic meeting with his economic advisors and some "real voters". It would be an economic focus group in some measure, which is needed. Spin it as "We want to ensure that our econmic policies are tailored to address the real needs of real people and not become another government program or subsidy that does not find itself helping the average American who needs its federal government now more than ever to be more effective, not more expansive and expensive".

The story of his mother and how he grew up is winning voters it needs to stay in speeches and it needs to be stated in any debate. "All that my mom and grandparents had to give me was love, education and hope" is perfect.

If Obama can punch a hole in Hillary's perceived strength on policy and the economy he can peel off enough blue collar whites to get a win or at least stalemate Hillary's margins in a loss.

"For the People For a Change".

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mary, Georgia — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:40:12 GMT

The republicans want you to vote for Hillary that is why they say they are for OBAMA. The republicans KNOW they can not beat OBAMA. They also know that even Mickey Mouse (sorry Mickey Mouse) can and would beat Hillary

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Barbara Baron Waretown New Jersey — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:40:48 GMT

I am a 60 year old white female Republican.........I have so much faith and admiration in Obama that I will vote for him in the upcomibg election if he wins the nomination......he should be an inspiration to all of us..........he wants to unite every race creed and religion....and bring all countires together for our benefit, and for the future of our children....wake up America...who knows when someone this special will come along again........You can see how he ran this campaign.......he worked together with the right people, anticipated any problems and how to use the campaign money wisely and his contributors were small amounts from ordinary people....and they keep sending in more money every day...................Go Obama

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Bart Bell — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:05:41 GMT

Why won't Hillary release her Tax returns?
She has agreed to release them if she is nominated but what would they reveal that would effect her viability now?
This sounds like old time Washington EXPERIANCE in action again and whatever her returns disclose will be fodder for the Republicans and a possible loss for the Democratic party come the general election.
Don't we have the right to full disclosure and know what a candidate is getting us into or is this just the past decade repeating itself.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

raider dem, maryland — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:08:19 GMT

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

MG, St. Louis, Mo. — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:12:05 GMT

It is more than clear that the Clintons felt that this election was a done deal before it started. They tried to sell us the inevitability of Hillary. They self ordained themselves. They had the arrogance to think it would be over after Super Tuesday Feb. 5th. Their money was gone at that point and they had not organized in any other states. Very clear what their thoughts and strategy were. She had her bags packed and was already looking at the general election. Is this the kind of thinking and experience we want in the white house? The Clintons have run campaings so many times and isn't it telling that they are getting beat bad on the ground, in fund raising, on strategy, at the grass roots level, on all levels. So much for all her experience and being READY on DAY ONE. Obama was right....it is better to get it RIGHT on DAY ONE!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark Thieme — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:13:39 GMT

First Reader readers and posters need to know:

A little bird (peep) tells me that when an argument broke out here a few weeks ago as to whether the campaign would be "over" on February 5th, it caught the eye of someone in the Obama camp.

Yes, dear readers, someone is watching, someone is paying attention to the opinions voiced here.

When Clinton's loudest proponent here kept repeating, in his charmingly arrogant way, that it would all be over on February 5, one of Obama's clandestine operators went into action.

To the point, though at first read it seemed like blarney, this hint helped tip off the Obama campaign that the Clintons had no plans beyond Super Tuesday... and no money salted away for a long campaign.

As a result of engaging this insipid troll in an extended argument, the Obama folks were able ultimately to pick up enough information to at least assign someone to find out more. And they did.

Thanks, in part, to Mr. Truth Pack, Obama was ready in ways the Obama folks had not expected to be... they edited the campaign plan, which has since proved to be spot on, and the rest is history.

First Read can't claim the full credit for the Obama do-over, but folks, we were there at the beginning.

Obama's folks don't know much about van, but would like to thank him for services rendered beyond the call of duty.

Alas, he is long gone, pulled off the job, no doubt, but he indeed has been a bug on the windshield of political history!

Thanks friend, wherever and whatever you are!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

TSM Ken.WI — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:14:06 GMT

To the Dem Beleivers, How many of you own businesses?
Not many I would guess! Everyone wants something for nothing, the Dems have made a life of promising it to any even illegals, Gov. doesn't make any money, they can only redistribute it, see socialism. We have had decades of programs that both parties have promised, then the $$ stream starts to get redirected to such things as the bridge to nowhere, healththcare for non-citizens, schoolong for non-citizens etc, you who are the citizens are paying right along with the rest of the crowd.What everyone has to decide is that platitudes are not enough, real hard decisions will have to be made and they are long overdue. Why do they never talk about where all the Social Security $$ went, because they stole it to fund every other thing besides what was promised. How many of Boomers, echo Boomers etc. actually beleive there will be money there for you?
Folks the only solution is action not words, words platitudes, chickens in every pot have got where we are today, more of the same won't fix it! Wake up! None of these folks have the guts to say let alone fix these problem as far as I can see. What we need is the backbone to grab our own bootstraps and pull ourselves out of this!
No gov.program will give you the backbone to do it, you have to. I'll help (as a concerned citizen) but only if you do your part!
How many are still here now?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:14:19 GMT

To those BLOGGERS who question why people do not support Hillary (some of these questions have been directed straight to men).

Hillary has some good points but she also has many negatives. It is those negatives that are hurting her in this campaign. Her negative rating in the country is 49%. It has nothing to do with her gender and everything to do with a my-way-or-the-highway condescending attitude. Have we not had too much of that in the last few years? These same characterestics belong to a man who now holds the office? So it is not a gender thing. It is an attitude thing. People don't like these characterestics in a man as well as a woman.

Hillary wrongly and selfishly assumed she was going to automatically be the Dem nominee. That is one reason she is in trouble now. She thought she was the chosen one even before giving the people an opportunity to vote and have their say. Another reason her campaign is broke. They never thought it would have gone this far competitvely.

On a less substantive matter, Hillary cannot incite anyone when speaking to the people. Her speeches and talks are flat. She is constantly nodding her head as if to say that's right children. She talks down to people. If she cannot incite the American people how do you expect her to incite those on the other side of the isle to agree with her plans on health care, etc.?.

Hillary "IS" part of the past. Her claim of experience only identifies her with the past. People want to look forward to the future and to throw out all the cronies who have failed this country for so many years. How long does Hilllary claim she has been in the political arena -35 years! Her claim to experience only labels her as one of those we no longer have faith in.

The Clintons have always used (and successfully so for years) this secret inner circle to promote their political careers. People are tired of secret inner circles. They want new, fresh faces and less secrecy.

Hillary has been successful to a degree because of Bill. Although many love Bill there are also many who resent Hillary having ridden on Bill's coat tails for so many years, including during the present contest.

Hillary will do what it takes to win this nomination including flip flopping on agreements in order to gain more delegates, i.e. her initial agreement that Michigan and Florida votes will not count and now her turnaround on that issue because she is behind.

There are other reasons that if listed here would make this post too long. It is already too long.

I'm sure many can give reasons why they do not support Obama, but this post was in response to those who have questioned why some do not suppport Hillary.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Tom Kennedy — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:15:09 GMT

It is time for Hillary to do some advance planning on how she plans to be an effective Senator after she loses the nomination. Or will that be one long, six year
preparation for when she runs for president again, followed by a two year campaign, to be mounted as Obama's 8-year presidency is winding down?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

S. Ruff — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:15:11 GMT

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — The man who served as national manager of former President Clinton's 1992 campaign endorsed Sen. Barack Obama on Wednesday.
David Wilhelm, who led the campaign and later became chairman of the Democratic National Committee, said Obama had the unique ability to encourage cooperation as a 65-percent president after the divisive years of a 51-percent majority. He was referring to the notion that Obama could govern the country with the support of a large coalition, as opposed to more polarized support for President Bush.

Wilhelm is a superdelegate who was previously uncommitted in the race.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Nashville_fan — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:17:11 GMT

J. Merle,

You are proving to be just as petty and divisive as your candidate. The reason this campaign has become so contentious is because of the dismissive way the Clinton campaign and many of its supporters continue to excoriate any and everyone who doesn't agree with them or wish to give "the Clinton's" a third bite at the apple.

Despite constant reminders that Obama supporters are members of a "feeble minded cult" following an empty suit, sadly the voters don't agree. Perhaps the Clinton campaign has been mismanaged, lacks a consistent message, and has trouble deciding who the actual candidate is.

If you want to "teach us a lesson" by electing McCain - go right ahead. I on the other hand, am going to vote with my heart and my head. Let the chips fall where they may.

Obama '08

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Gino Shahan Jamison, Fort Lauderdale, Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:17:31 GMT

If we always do, what we've always done, we will always get, what we've always gotten,......It's time for a change.

Obama brings that change.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Donna, Roanoke, VA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:17:39 GMT

HASN'T HILLARY ALWAYS LED IN OHIO and PENNSYLVANIA??

How about a little context? Has her lead widened? Narrowed? What is the point of publishing results from this poll?

BTW, this poll is sort of outdated. It began a week ago last Wednesday! That is a lifetime ago in a Primary season! It didn't reflect Obama's HUGE wins on this past Tuesday night in the Potomac Primary - or his TAKING OVER THE LEAD IN DELEGATES from HILLARY! And on the polling days from Wed. the 6th until Sat. the 9th, the poll did not take into account Hillary's subsequent string of losses and Obama's enormous surge.

So again, what IS the point here?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Judy Bortell, OVILLA TEXAS — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:21:17 GMT

What happened to all of HILLARY'S money? If she mismanages campaign money (other people's money) what on earth will she do in the Whitehouse? Furthermore, if anyone thinks that she will run the government with out Bill "butting in"; you are fooling yourself. Then how can she have an effective "cabinet"? I was always taught; that "looking back"...only got you a BROKEN NECK.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Bryant Lister, Gresham, Oregon — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:21:36 GMT

Rasmussen poll posted on the 13th of February shows that the Clinton-Obama split in Ohio is at 14 points, down 7 from the Quinnipac poll. So, the momentum is clearly in Obama's favor and as more campaigning occurs that gap will close further. Wins in Hawaii and Wisconsin next week could push Obama into a tie with Clinton in Ohio, or maybe even the lead by March 4th. The key point here is that in the weeks leading up to most of these races, Clinton was ahead by 20+ points, and those leads have evaporated by election day.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Geoff Adams, Charlotte NC — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:21:59 GMT

Vet's against Obama!
DEMOCRATS FOR McCAIN, 2008!
J. Merle Stanley, Westchester, NY (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:10 AM)

Well Mr. Stanley, I am a Veteran of the Marine Corps and an Obama supporter. If you feel like you want to surrender you dignity and vote republican, that is one of the rights for which we defended our country for. By all means do it. The vile in your comments border on racism more than ojectivity. US MARINES for Obama.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Judy Bortell, OVILLA TEXAS — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:22:31 GMT

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

J. in PA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:23:57 GMT

Can MSNBC and all other news agencies start showing some responsibility and stop posting blogs that suggest Obama is a Muslim, or an Islamist? Vote for who you want, but don't spread lies to do it!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Stacy, Virginia — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:25:02 GMT

David I have heard the same thing. Voters in TX and OH can vote in either Primary. If Republican's know that McCain has their nomination locked up then they might cross the aisle. I doubt if it is more than talk though. It has been mentioned in other races and never actually happens. Although I know a lot of independents here in VA who voted for Obama and plan to vote for him against McCain but will vote McCain if it is a choice between him and Clinton. Clinton's negatives are too high for a general.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Nicholas J — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:25:38 GMT

The latest Rasmussen poll for Ohio also concur with the Qunnipiac poll and this poll comes post Potomac Primary.

Clinton leads with all groups in the Rasmussen, leading Obama among men by 7 percent, Women by 20 percent, she has an extremely large lead in voters over the age of fifty. She leads among all white voters in Ohio two to one. Ohio also has a less than average African American vote. Its African American population is half the national average.

Obama's apparant cut into Clintons white and womens vote in the Potomac primary leave out one key factor.

The median family incomes in the Potomac Primary states. The one with the lowest, Maryland, has a median family income of 65,000 a year. Virginia 70,000. The Washington DC area and suburbs have a median family income of 98,000 a year.

Ohio has a rather more typical median family income, in fact a median family income that is below the national average of 48,000. The median family income in Ohio is 44,000 a year.

Also half of the Democractic voting population of Ohio is blue collar Catholic. One of Clintons key demographics, and one of Obama's worse is the Catholic population. Clinton has consistantly taken the Catholic population at 2 to one over Obama. She took 66 percent in New York. In California, she took 63 percent to Obama's 22 percent.

Clintons lead in Ohio over Obama has increased since December.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

terri glaude, Colorado Springs , Co — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:33:00 GMT

Because Obama is black, and his father (who abandoned the family) is Muslim, he must be in with the Muslim terrorists? That is a pretty hefty stretch for anyone. Why do you swallow the crap? Why not do your won research? Why such reguritate the garbage? If you don't like his policies, say so, but to fall back on such tripe is an insult to all of us, and just shows you are too lazy and too ignorant to look up the trug=th for yourself.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Betty in KY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:33:15 GMT

Which lier do we believe, that is the question.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Jordan, New York, NY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:33:36 GMT

All this "If so-and-so is the nominee, then I'm voting for McCain" garbage has to stop. If you're ideologically aligned with either Obama or Clinton, then the only reason you'd vote for McCain is because you're letting your support for your candidate cloud your judgement. Obama folks know that Clinton offers essentially the same policies as he does, she just doesn't package them as well. And Clinton folks need to recognize that Obama has spent more time in elected office than Hillary, and certainly has the intelligence and judgement to lead our nation. Enough with the hyperbole. Be reasonable.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

em,el paso, tx — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:35:00 GMT

What this country needs is some strong and experienced leadership to get this country out of the
mess President Bush has left behind. Americans should
learn from their mistakes and do what is right for this country.

I believe that Sen. Hillary Clinton has the right idea to put this country back on its feet again.
Americans should vote on who will do a better job
not who is more charismatic. Hillary has far more
expeirence than Obama in running this country, so
come on people! Think of youf future, and vote Clinton.
the

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

L. Smith, Washington — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:35:10 GMT

Why is no one comparing Clinton's campaign effectiveness to her potential leadership skills as president? Every day we hear more about how on the ropes her campaign was, infighting, wasted money, poor coverage, loyalty over skills and more. For all her supposed "experience" I'm not seeing a result that would demonstrate she would be a better president. In actuality, so far, Obama seems to be far far more effective, strategic and organized. Why is no one acknowledging this?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

BL, CIncinnati OH — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:35:20 GMT

Numbers a bit more interesting than those out dated polls:

Chelsea Clinton ends day at Sully's
150 attend
BY HOWARD WILKINSON | HWILKINSON@ENQUIRER.COM
DOWNTOWN - Chelsea Clinton made sure every one of the 150 Cincinnati-area supporters of her mother's presidential candidacy who came out on a cold Wednesday night to see her went home happy.

___

Clinton's stretch-run campaign kicked off Saturday morning in a ballroom at the Vernon Manor hotel in Avondale, where about 60 volunteers - some of whom have never worked in presidential campaigns before - gathered for marching orders from Southwest Ohio organizers like Hamilton County Commissioner David Pepper.
____

150 people to see Chelsea, 60 Clinton Volunteers.

Now... check this out...

(from http://www.buckeyestateblog.com/)

I see jump23 has an equally cool story from Columbus, but here's what happened in Cincinnati tonight (cross-posted at DU).

After witnessing what I did this evening, there is no doubt in my mind that Obama can take Ohio, and big.

Cincinnatians who signed up on the Obama website were emailed by the campaign early today. The campaign wanted us to know that they had secured a location for their Cincinnati office, and, apologizing for the extra-short notice, wanted to let us know they were having their first official Organizational Meeting tonight, at 6:00 p.m. Since they were still having the heat turned on at the new headquarters, and expected big attendance, the meeting was held at Friendship Baptist Church, about 5 minutes from downtown.

When I started to get close to the church, maybe two miles away, I hit ridiculously heavy traffic. It's an urban area and it's normally congested at rush hour, but this was ridiculous. When I got about five blocks from the church, it was pure gridlock, and I could see that all the side street parking was filling up, so, being late and irritated, I grabbed a spot and decided to trek through the ice and snow. So many people had that idea that we all started walking up the hill, and chatting, and the crowd just got larger. When I made it inside, it was already standing room only with TV crews and all. A very festive atmosphere!

I decided to go up front and lean against a wall, when a very nice young gentleman got out of his folding chair and gave it to me. I looked around at all the people... young and old, fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, black, white, Asian, Latino, gay, straight... and even some rather out-of-place Republican-looking men in suits. I noticed that the back of the church was now filling up, people were crowding in, and many were practically jammed against the doors. People just kept on coming. The room was overflowing and buzzing and cheerful.

The meeting was called to order and a lovely young woman named Bettina Tsongas (yes, Paul's daughter!) came up to the microphone. She practically had tears in her eyes. She said of all the states she'd been to, this was the most amazing organizational crowd she'd ever seen. The campaign staff all came up to the mic and talked about how overwheliming we were, they sincerely seemed touched.

I won't go into the details of the meeting, but when it was wrapping up, Bettina told us that they had made 700 copies of signup sheets, and they had run out. It goes to show you that people in Ohio have been chomping at the bit to get into this thing, when they can get that kind of turnout in super-short notice. It also seems from my perspective that the now-legendary Obama Ground Game Operation is for real.

In all my years of political activism and volunteerism, I'd never seen anything like it. We weren't coming to a rally, and we weren't coming to vote. We were coming to offer our time and our support. And to do that, just that one simple act of participation, we sat in a traffic jam on a miserable February day, we slid across treacherous ice, and ruined our best work shoes in the grey city snow. And we did this, with less than 24 hour notice, in the most incredible numbers I've ever seen for a primary election. A primary! And in Cincinnati, the Republican bastion of the state! I've never even seen a crowd half its size for the first volunteer meeting for a general election!

Here's hoping the support in Ohio outside our GOP enclave is even greater. What an incredible, and encouraging kickoff to what promises to be the most intense two-and-a-half week Primary battle this state has ever seen.

____

From what I heard, it was about 800 volunteers. I expect far more didn't have time to get there due to the late notice. I didn't get the email myself until too late as I had plans to meet my brother and mother for dinner and didn't get home till after.

Ohio is not going to be a state that Clinton takes easily, if at all.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:38:33 GMT

OHIO: SUSA as of 2/10-11, poll of 720(LV-likely voter) had HRC-56% and BHO-39%.

Quinnipiac a/o 2/6-12, poll of 564(LV) has HRC-55% and BHO-34%. Previous poll had it at HRC-45%//BHO-19%.

PA---Quinnipiac as of 2/6-12, poll of 577(LV) had HRC-52%///BHO 36%. HRC was 28-30% ahead in previous polls-now she is 16% ahead.

In Alabama they were virtually tied heading in(poll average was HRC 46%//BHO 45%. Barack won with 56%///HRC 42%.

Maine--Polls leading up last Sunday had HRC with up to about 30 points leads. Barack won 59%///HRC 40%.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:42:23 GMT

Mary, Georgia (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:40 AM)

I respectfully disagree Mary. Read Barbara Baron's post above. There are many many responsible moderate republicans (as well as thoiusands of independents) who are disgruntled and want change as well, and are willing to give Obama an opportunity. These same moderates would not vote for Hillary in the general election. Let's' ask Barbara Baron. What say you Barbara, would you vote for Hillary in the general election as you state you will for Obama?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Patty, SD, CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:42:41 GMT

“I am offering not only 35 years of experience making change on behalf of people, but more than that a sense of how we together can solve our problems to make progress,” she said. “Change is going to happen anyway. Change happens whether we like it or not. The question is not whether we will have change. The question is whether we will have progress that makes a difference in people’s lives.”

Hilary Clinton 2008

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

BL, Cincinnati OH — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:42:48 GMT

Which Ohio NBC affiliate did Hillary lie to? Could it all be about black turnout?
Submitted by Jerid on Wed, 02/13/2008 - 4:48am.
Since the David Shuster pimpfest began, there's been a striking suspicion that the Clinton campaign all along has been less than sincere, pitting one part of the electorate (outraged mothers) against another (everybody else), for her political gain. Well, here's the proof - one NBC affiliate in Ohio seems to be less offensive to the Clinton camp than another. The question is why?

On Tuesday Feb. 12, the Cleveland NBC affiliate asked Hillary if she still plans to attend the February 26th debate at Cleveland State. Hillary tells the Cleveland NBC affiliate, "it's not a surprise that I've been very troubled by the behavior of that particular network..." She never commits as the Cleveland anchor begs her to honor her previous commitment and come to our fair city.

The Youngstown NBC affiliate... SAME NETWORK, the same day... speaks to Hillary from the same room. I'd guess it all goes down within the same hour. Hillary tells the Youngstown NBC affiliate how much she'd love to do a debate on NBC in Youngstown. "I will accept right now." When asked about the Cleveland State debate by the Youngstown NBC affiliate, Hillary responds "I have said I will participate in every debate."

Here's footage from a few of HRC's Ohio interviews yesterday. [note: its on the site linked below that I copied this from] Watch her waffle and lie as she makes her way around the Ohio circuit. It's ghastly.

Now why would Hillary tell one NBC affiliate one thing and another NBC affiliate - about 75 miles away, the same day - the exact opposite twice? It's about African American turnout, baby.

If there's a debate, the resulting excitement, attention, and visit by Obama at Cleveland State University (in Stephanie Tubbs Jones' 11th CD which is over 50% African American) will help shoot black turnout through the roof, much to Hillary's detriment. If there's a debate in Youngstown, which is a smaller city with far fewer African American voters, whatever black turnout bump occurs doesn't hurt Hillary as much.

The numbers don't lie. In 1992, when there was no black candidate on the presidential primary ballot in Ohio, the turnout in what is now the 11th Congressional District - where CSU sits - was just over 58,000. In 1988, when there was a black candidate on the ballot, 112,000 people voted in the district that is now the 11th, about double the '92 showing. It's likely the turnout in the 11th CD will be similarly higher in 2008, if not bigger. And if there is a debate in the 11th CD the week before the election, it will only go higher still. It's the equivalent of Hillary going into the hornet's nest and smacking it with a baseball bat, screaming "catch me if you can." Bad for Hill Dawg!

So, David Shuster's one regrettable, unfortunate remark becomes Hillary Clinton's "get out of jail free card" to avoid Cuyahoga County, Cleveland, and the state's largest black population.

I can just see Mark Penn Standing in the room handling the satellite feed between the two NBC affiliates, saying, "OK, this one is in Youngstown, you want to tell them you'll debate. The next one is in Cleveland, that's where the blacks are, you don't want to debate there, you want to stay outraged. Get mad!" Someone forgot to tell Mark they were both NBC affiliates.

Rut roh - I'd say the Clinton campaign has some explaining to do.

http://www.buckeyestateblog.com/which_ohio_nbc_affiliate_did_hillary_lie_to_could_it_all_be_about_black_turnout

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sally Thomas, Burlington, Vermont — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:45:15 GMT

MSNBC - I'm sure you won't print this but I want to say you have lost all credibility with me this morning. Alex Witt and other anchors have been promoting this Quinnipiac Poll as a "NEW POLL!" It is not! It was conducted February 6th through February 12th! That means for HALF of the polling days, Obama's stunning winning streak had not begun!

And, forgive me, but has not Hillary always had a double digit lead in Ohio and Pennsylvania? How can this be construed as a COMEBACK??? Please clarify on-air the dates of this poll and also clarify the word 'comeback.' Thanks!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Geoff A, Charlotte NC — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:46:52 GMT

As a veteran, I am very disturbed by the assumption these so called super-delegates will dicide this race. My position is who ever is leading in the pleged delegate count should receive the super-delegates. If this is not the case all citizens should stand and revolt. As an independent I for one support Obama, and if some back door deal is made to give Clinton the nomination I will forever vote REPUBLICAN.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

The Sandman — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:48:33 GMT

Will Hillary Clinton at some point in the near future just drop out of this race? It doesn't appear her campaign is ever going to get on track.

Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 9:33 AM)
**************************************************
IN YOUR DREAMS PAT!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Bryan Johnson, Chicago, Illinois. — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:49:26 GMT

I keep hearing how experience Senator Clinton is and I was wondering what particular experience that would be. Are we supposed to assume, since we don't knoew for a fact, that the policy decisions that were made during her husbands Presidency, were her decisions. And if indeed she gets credit for those decisions, shouldn't we also give her credit for NAFTA, that caused the closure of factories in Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Texas (these factories are now operating from other countries with the tax credits that we the tax payers pay for) which is a big part of the reason why unemployment is so high today?

The only experience that could definitely be attributed to Senator Clinton was a failed attempt at achieving Universal Healthcare (good cause). That failure was due to HER INABILITY TO UNITE PEOPLE AROUND SUCH A NOBLE CAUSE.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marbw — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:49:29 GMT

From February 5th through today, there have been 30 primaries and caucuses and the results are clear. Barack Obama has won 21 of those elections while Senator Clinton has won 8 with New Mexico still undetermined. In total, there have been 34 elections and Senator Obama has won 23, winning more than two out of every three contests. Obama is also ahead in the popular vote by 52-48%.
Senator Obama has won landslide victories from Maine to Washington State, and from Maryland to Nebraska. In Virginia, Kansas, and North Dakota, Senator Obama won more votes than all the Republicans on the ballot combined, demonstrating the grassroots excitement of his candidacy and his ability to appeal to Republicans and Independents.
Barack Obama continues to dominate among Independent voters. Continuing a trend, Senator Obama won 2-1 among Independents in Virginia (66-33%) and Maryland (68-24%), which is driving his lead over John McCain in general election polls. Senator Clinton’s weakness among Independents is her critical weakness versus Senator McCain in the general election.
Senator Obama has won big states and small states, red states, blue states, and swing states. Senator Obama has won 12 primaries, while Senator Clinton has won 9. Senator Obama has won 11 caucuses to Senator Clinton’s 2.
Senator Obama has won states across this country by appealing to Americans of all races, religions, and education and income levels. He has won the Hispanic vote in 5 states (CT, VA, MD, IL IA). Senator Obama has also won the women’s vote in 16 contests (IA, SC, AL, DE, GA, IL, MO, UT, LA, MD, VA, KS, AK, ID, Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia), while Senator Clinton has won the women’s vote in 11.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

LSC - Montana — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:49:31 GMT

"It's all Barack Obama, everywhere. This country wants him front and center and the Clintons pushed back to the sidelines. It's obvious everywhere I turn."

Pat, Boston, MA (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 9:33 AM)

---------

Maybe, (and I emphasize the word 'maybe') Obama’s "everywhere" with Democrats, but there are a lot of other people that will vote in November besides the left-wing of the Democratic Party.

Change is excellent food for thought ... but where's the beef?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Carol, Bartow, Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:49:47 GMT

Barrack Hussein Obama could not win a big State how do you all think he can win and election with little red sates, that tend to vote Republican. Open your eyes. If fl. votes do not get counted, you can count Fl. out in the general election. I'm for HILLARY, just like the majority in FL., and if she does not get the nomination because they did not count our vote, McCain will win, he will have a lot of Democrat support including me. There are a lot of Democrats that's talking about switching parties if Obama is on ticket. So all you Obama lovers get with it. He will never win in big States or the President. He a big bunch of hot air FLORIDA FOR HILLARY

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

C A, Tuscaloosa, AL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:50:14 GMT

I like Obama, but Hillary is the better choice. She will get things done, not just talk about getting things done. Geralyn (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:34 AM):

How Gerlyn? How will Hillary get things done? You seem to fail to realize that getting things done in Washington requires first that you have to have a coaltion that will support your plans no matter how many details you have. Sure, Hillary is bright and has some good ideas, but tell me how you expect her to get the cooperation she needs to get her plans implemneted? The Republicans in Congress will fight her on everything she proposes. If she is unable to incite the American people how do you expect her to incite those she needs in Congress to get her proposals acted upon? Obama is right. Build the coaltion first, then let the people decide and direct what direction we want this country to take.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Steve, NY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:51:42 GMT

nurseratchet: Thank you so much for doing your homework! Obama is NOT what is claims to be.

It still amazes me how so many of the American people behave like sheep. All the Hillary haters, do you even know why you hate Hillary? Has she done something to offend you? No, didn't think so, but so many people say it, so you must do it.

Same goes for Obama. do you know why you want Obama? He says he's a great guy. Everyone around you say he's a great guy. But do you know if he really is a great guy? No, didn't think so.

DO YOU HOMEWORK PEOPLE. There is enough garbage out there for Obama that if you multiplied it by the number of years Hillary has worked in public (over Obama), Obama will have a longer list!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Joan Conklin, Burnaby, Canada — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:52:02 GMT

Obama has no events on February 14....I hope...HOPE...that he is taking some time to shower his family with love on Valentines Day.

I am one of those over 60 white females....who remember the Vietnam War...and shame on all of us who watched as our BUSH leaders led us into another war on unfounded grounds....shame on all of us for allowing us to buy into a culture of fear.....shame on all of us if we do not hold the Democratic Party to the rules that they made on the seating of Michigan and Florida.....and SHAME ON US if we do not VOTE, SUPPORT and Champion a leader who gives us a chance to work hard for ourselves and our country.

GO OBAMA!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Gregorio, San Francisco CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:52:05 GMT

I'm shocked about how quick Obama people are to denounce the Clinton's. Where once we thought the 90's were good, now they're seen as the apocalypse without a second coming. Where once Clinton was admired throughout the party, now people can't wait to attack him. Has he been a saint in this campaign? No, but that doesn't mean his 8 years of good leadership are useless.

It's funny that people are calling for Hillary Clinton to concede. Funny because the race is FAR from over. Yes, she's down now, and yes, MSNBC all but called the entire race for Obama Tuesday night, but she is not out.

Clearly, this thing will have to be decided by the super delegates. But if Clinton wins the overall popular vote, if she wins the untainted Florida election, won't the super delegates see that as a vindication of her as a candidate?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

J. Couch, Stillwater, OK — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:52:14 GMT

I agree with Jack in Burlington, VT. and Nancy Braggs of Tulsa. The Democratic Party is about to self-destruct. Most people don't know the difference between a win in a caucus and a win in a primary so the media is treating them the same -- Obama has won more states, etc. -- caucuses are generally for the party activists -- I participated in them in Oklahoma before we got away from that system years ago. The liberals have more of a tendency to be party activists. Most of the state's voters do not take part so the caucus states do not represent the state's voters.

Obama has very little national experience -- two years as a senator, one of which has been spent running for president -- and very little critical press coverage. The Republicans will have a field day.

Our president is commander in chief -- is a few years as a street organizer in Chicago the best background for that role?

I'll take McCain this time, if the Democrats don't nominate Clinton.

Oklahoma SOONER

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Dave Turner, Gilbert, IA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:57:49 GMT

The Clinton legacy: Hillary Clinton

Monica Lewinsky Innocent
Gennifer Flowers Innocent
Juanita Broaddrick Innocent
Kathleen Willey Innocent
Whitewater Innocent
Cattle futures Innocent
Rose Law firm, rperesenting corporate interests YES
Wal Mart board of directors YES
TravelGate Innocent
HairCutGate Innocent
the NAFTA sell out Innocent
the WTO sell out Innocent
the Millenium Communications bill Innocent
Vincent Foster Innocent
Maggie Williams' conver up of Vincent Foster death NO
the McDougals Innocent
Buddist Fund raising Innocent
Norman Hsu Innocent
Johnny Treu Innocent
Peter Paul Innocent
Marc Rich pardon Innocent
Carlos A. Vignali pardon Innocent
Roger Clinton pardon Innocent
Voting for the Iraq War YES
Voting for Kyl/Lieberman YES
Voting AGAINST the cluster bomb ban YES
'race-baiting' NO
the 'Politics of personal destruction'NO
'demonizing the opposition' NO
30 years of open, public adultery by Bill Innocent

I noticed that you took out the Iran vote, of course, Obama was a NO SHOW on that vote.

Sierra, SF (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:16 AM)

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

HILLARY 08 — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:59:44 GMT

Sierra, SF (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:16 AM)
--------
Sierra you are the very best REPUBLICAN EVER!
You are the champion hatemonger of the REPUBLIANS EVER!
You make karl rove look like Mary Poppins!
He is so very proud of you and the shrub sends kisses to you on Valentines Day!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Bill Johnson, Anaconda, Montana — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 16:59:49 GMT

Hillary has done well for a "shoestring" campaign. Trouble is for a $140,000,000.00 she has run a very poor operation. If she can't run her campaign, how in the world can she run the Federal Government?

If she was fighting Bush's war, the troops wouldn't even have made Bagdad yet. Can you imagine less competence than Bush?

All of us Obama fans have to continue to chip in so we can win this thing.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Barbara Duncan new york ,new york — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:01:04 GMT

The bottom line is that this country is in big trouble.
All americans better realize that we are all in this together, so if this this country goes down the drain we are all to blame.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Barbara Duncan new york ,new york — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:03:38 GMT

The bottom line is that this country is in big trouble.
All americans better realize that we are all in this together, so if this this country goes down the drain we are all to blame.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Obama people are suckers! — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:04:28 GMT

Why are these Quinnipiac polls news?

Olivia, Clemson, SC (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:37 AM)
____________________________________________

Olivia if these polls were about BO you would be SALIVATING!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

rc, LA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:06:17 GMT

I agree with the posts that say the press is on a honeymoon with Obama. He will not debate Hillary because he lacks her command of the issues. This country will be inherited as a mess and Hillary is the best Democratic candidate to be in the general election and has the best chance to win the general election.

I also agree many males are voting for Obama because he is MALE--there are those who cannot fathom that a female can lead this country. I think she has had much more scrutiny and low blows because of her gender and gender is definitely a divide here. The race issue cannot be really considered since that is a taboo, but it is still ok to be a male chauvinist even when choosing the leader of the U.S.! I think females should be insulted at the way she is treated by many simply because she is FEMALE.

Democrats have to decide if they want substance or oratory gifts. I support HILLARY.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

James Dallas Texas — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:06:34 GMT

WAKE UP PEOPLE!

Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) Said The 2001 And 2003 Tax Relief Didn't Benefit Middle- And Working- Class Families And Called Higher Taxes "Patriotic." "We are paying a very big price for this because middle-class and working families are paying a much higher percentage of their income. That was Warren Buffett's position.... And he's honest enough to say, look, tax me because I'm a patriotic American and I want to make sure our country stays strong and is fair. So, yes, we have to change the tax system..." (Sen. Hillary Clinton, PBS' All-American Presidential Forum, Howard University, Washington, DC, 6/28/07)

In 1992 in a Bid for the White House, Former president Clinton, proclaimed to be a agent for the working class and middle income people. In fact he promised a tax cut for the middle class, which in fact his first budget included the biggest tax hike in U.S. History for Middle and lower income families. Warren Buffet is correct and it wasn’t the GOP that did it the American people. It is the now former president Bill Clinton, who also undid all of the Reagan Defense Plans. Cut the Military forces, did away with medical coverage for military dependants, closed thousands of Military hospitals and VA Centers. To say that they are for the middle and lower class is a joke, all you have to do is look at the history. Hey Bush only built on the grounds of the foundation that Bill Clinton laid. We had a lower nation deficit because, the middle and lower income people starting paying the bills per the tax increase plan President Clinton sent before them.

I see a lot of people going out and voting on emotions and listening to the buzz word of the day. But the facts are still there. 4 or 8 years of Clintons is not going to solve your problems, you may wake up one day and find that we no longer have a country or a military to defend it. John McCain or Barack Obama either one may be a better candidate for this country than Hillary. People need to stop worrying about changing history and start worrying about who is going to be a Great, not just a Good, BUT A GREAT PRESIDENT for this once GREAT NATION. People read the papers from congress, read past tax laws, look at past presidential speeches. Hillary has just retooled what Bill said 16 years ago. The Danger of not understanding who you are voting for is a country that is in disarray, a on going war with no end in sight, a stained and fracture military that has been starched to the breaking point. No jobs, more homeless and less pay….. We are already here, it is time to move towards the future, lets apply a bit of logic to help our kids inherit a country that is GREAT. All we have to do is look around the world and see what history has done for other nations……..

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Kentucky woman for Hillary — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:06:40 GMT

Mr Yarmouth of Kentucky endorsing Obama is for political reasons only. He represents Louisville which is mainly a black area. If he doesn't endorse Obama he is doomed in his district. Please check all endorsements for the area they represent and you will find they represent a large majority of black voters.
Politics as usual. Cover your next election regardless of the best candidate.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

rt777, CA via Chitown — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:07:11 GMT

This is just another Clinton machine stunt. She slaps NBC secretly hoping for an apology coupled with tons of free POSITIVE press. I wonder how much she paid the anchor to say that...hehe/jk (maybe).

I feel like Oliver Stone these days. I am ALWAYS suspect of the Clinton machine. Heck that is why I am voting Obama. Straight talk, no drama, just the facts, and some very good ideas on how to fix things.

Hey, is Hillary's voice getting on anyone else's last nerve?

OBAMA 08

GET TO KNOW THIS GUY, YOU WILL LIKE WHAT YOU LEARN
BARACKOBAMA.COM!!!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

GAB, Austin, TX — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:07:59 GMT

Bush has been in office for 7 years and he's STILL not ready to be President!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Rick,ky — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:08:02 GMT

Isn't it truely amusing to watch all these Hillary supporter's completely lose it(j.merle & other's)as thier candidate Parades around Texas & Ohio begging for votes.She has consistantly shown this is all about Her & Not the American people as a whole. States that don't vote for are irrelevant, caucuses are'nt real election's, Missiouri, last i checked was Relevant in each of the last 100000 cycles, same goes for Virginia, which is showing to be a Purple state. Barack won both of these Primary's with crossover appeal.How Hillary can continue on is Comical.
Once Ohio voter's do a little checking, they will find out NAFTA is the reason for major job losses in Ohio(same with Pennsylvania). Bill pushed it thru & Hillary continues to Support it.She will soon hear that giant sucking sound(Ross Perot) of voter's overwhelmingly supporting Barack in both of these states.

Just heard on MSNBC that one of her Super's has switched to Barack(New Jersey i think). Since super tuesady, that makes it 11-2 in Superdelegates for Barack.Watch as other's see that Barack continues to Grow the Democrat Party & with that comes a majority in Congress that will be able to accomplish what the American people want.

Barack Obama for President!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Nashville_fan — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:10:25 GMT

*Stands and applauds Barbara Baron from NJ*

Well said Barbara, well said!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Tony in AZ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:10:47 GMT

Did this 2005 bankruptcy law cause the housing crisis ??? Now with all this housing debt causing so much economic volatility , and great burden being spread out upon the Tax payers , was this the best was to go , or did it actually cause the problem , by emboldening the Lenders to be more brazen in their lending practices , and the government not having proper regulation in place to influence predatory lending practices , lead to all this extra debt , that now the Taxpayer is going to have to pay for ?? . Barack Obama voted NO on this law , and shows that he made the right decision , and if President would have vetoed it and saved us all allot of grief in Tax Money going to pay this mess in Stimulus , like is the case now , but it should have been vetoed and rewrote with the right regulation should have been in the new law that kept the lenders willing to not get so bold in their Greenspan Innovative loans he talked about being created at the same time this law was being passed , that changed the standard 20% down , that was the standard before all the new loan packages surfaced . But if you look at the money that flowed into this new law by the banks and lenders pushing this law , it was over 56 million on lobbyist funds , mostly went to Republicans , its no wonder this law had no teeth in it to regulate lender practices . both parties are in the tank for these funds , and its writing policy thats no good for the US people , and has to stop with a new direction . Trade policies too , they need overhauling , not Isolation , but overhauling , and negociating with out all the influence from these lobbyists or we the people get the debt , and a insolvent SS and Medicare system , because of the lost deducts from lost jobs , with no fee based solution on Import goods , to make up the loss , this could have been in the last 16 years of trade agreements , why wasn't it ? Here is Bill Clintons fairy tail , Roll of the Dice with US tax payer money as the victim of this great Trade policy which only really has benefited the Multi-Nationals , and the Trade Partners with our US treasury , that you and I now owe , and think about this in this way , the critics will say that we got Cheaper Goods out of this Trade policy , " But " can we really say that when we are so far in debt buy these trade Deficits , and Now to prop up the Economy we have to Pour Billions of dollars , tax Payer dollars back out into the Markets , that we the People get left holding more debt for ????? Tell me this is working Bill ??? when we left the GATT trade policy of Bush /Reagan 1988-1992 was the begining of the end for the Fair Trade Business ;

February 16, 2000 Issue Brief #137 http://www.epi.org/content.cfm/issuebriefs_ib137

The High Cost of the China-WTO Deal
Administration's own analysis suggests spiraling deficits, job losses

by Robert E. Scott

No one can predict the future. But the Clinton Administration is confidently forecasting that the huge U.S. trade deficit with China will improve if Congress accords China permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) in order to accommodate Beijing's membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). President Clinton claims that the recently signed trade agreement with China "creates a win-win result for both countries" (Clinton 2000, 9). He argues that exports to China "now support hundreds of thousands of American jobs," and that "these figures can grow substantially with the new access to the Chinese market the WTO agreement creates" (Clinton 2000, 10). Others in the White House, such as Kenneth Liberthal, the special advisor to the president and senior director for Asia affairs at the National Security Council, echo Clinton's assessment:

"Let's be clear as to why a trade deficit might decrease in the short term. China exports far more to the U.S. than it imports [from] the U.S….It will not grow as much as it would have grown without this agreement and over time clearly it will shrink with this agreement."1

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Anna Molly (: — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:10:55 GMT

C A – Agreed. Everyone needs to wait to see what happens in Wisconsin and North Carolina before worrying about Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania. As a matter of sheer mathematics, it may be almost over by then. All Obama will really need to do is keep things close.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Paula Bedford TX — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:11:08 GMT

Hillary Clinton is the choice of the BASE of the Democrat party. This is the folks that WIN elections. California, New York, Florida, Ohio. Without these states, regardless of how many others you carry as a Democrat, you cannot win the Presidency. And these are Hillary country. WAKE UP! I want a Democrat in office and that is only going to happen with Hillary Clinton. Obama has stated she has "47% of voters against her right off", but that means she has 53% for her! And he does not have 53% for him in a General Election. He would be lucky at 47%. Why? He cannot carry the necessary blue states to win an election. So yes, do the math!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Tony in AZ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:11:45 GMT

So,why didn't Senator Hillary Clinton vote against the Bankruptcy law in 2005 ??
With all the consumer debt and mortgage debt issues , did the 2005 bankruptcy bill that was made law , did that open the door to all the predatory lending we are seeing cause all the economic crisis , and why didn't Senator Hillary Clinton vote against the Bankruptcy law ?? Senator Clinton was the only Democrat to not vote on the new Bankruptcy law , and this law has put a big strain on American Consumers needing the flexibility of restructuring debt in time like now , that directly looks like a result of this bankruptcy law of 2005 .
The senator of new York should have voted up or down , but did not vote , so is this pandering , being able to say Hillary didn't support it so her position would not be against the Banks and other Financial Institutes she was getting funding from ?? Barack Obama voted NO on the Bankruptcy Law , and at a time like today , we consumers need someone who is for the Consumer protections in deals , and wants to regulate the practices of the lenders , and with bankruptcy laws like these , it just makes the lenders more bold in what kind of loans they are willing to create , like we saw no money down and teasers rate loans evolve after this law was passed . Its like the educational value of educate the Consumer about affordability , and holding the Bar on the Lenders to make sure that Consumers were able to afford the loans were left out of this bill , and to not vote it down makes no since at all , and if Barack Obama would have been in Office he would have vetoed the bill , by the way he voted here , and we would have kept a standard like we had in place that required 20 % down on a home loan , and the income to back it up . So I fault whoever voted this bill into law , and if you did not vote , then I would say thats just as bad .
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/109/senate/1/votes/44/

Subject: FOLLOW HILLARY CLINTONS MONEY!
http://www.dickmorris.com/blog/?p=261#more-261 , here is a direct link to the story

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Olivia, Athens, Ga — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:12:32 GMT

Who cares when the polls were conducted?? Let the media try to mitigate the sympathy factor for Hillary. I mean when both Mike Barnacle and Joe Scarbourgh's mom feel sorry for her its not a good sign. Hillary didn't even need to feign a cry this time to get sympathy. It is just the sheer onslaught of bad news for Hillary regarding her campaign. If Hillary is going to do well in the remaining contests, then I want her to do well on her strength as a candidate and not just because people have begun to feel sorry for her a la New Hampshire. If that means letting the Media outlets run with a Clinton Comeback, then that's fine with me. So let Hillary have some positive coverage for a little while. It is not the end of the world.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

CPT T, Montgomery, AL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:12:52 GMT

I am an independent. At this point the only thing I am sure of is that I do not and will not support Barack Obama. It is not that I dislike him or his vision for America. On the contrary I think he is a fantastic orater and his idealism is admirable. But let's get real people. Obama is a first-term, JUNIOR Senator. He simply DOES NOT have the experience to lead this nation. Yes, experience does count for something. Whether you love or hate Hillary Clinton the fact remains that she has endured public scrutiny, humiliation, and resentment for years. Could any single one of you do the same and still perservere? I know I would be hard-pressed to keep my head held high. She has remained unbowed and continued to serve. This woman has backbone. I respect that. Personally, I will likely vote for John McCain for President. He is a true public servant and a patriot. McCain has actually PROVEN that he is respected by Democrats and has crossed party lines to get things accomplished. Obama will bring the nation together? Please! Senator Obama didn't even know to place his hand over his heart as the National Anthem was being played at a public event! Is this someone we want as Commander In Chief of our Armed Forces much less President of the United States? Obama might get my vote 9 years down the road because I do see great potential in him. But right now, as a woman and a proud member of the military, if I had to salute Barack Obama as President it would be while holding down the contents of my stomach.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Tony in AZ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:13:49 GMT

Subject: Here is another point of view that 9 years later on the way the Trade agreements have gone ..........................................under the Clinton WTO trade agreements , like they need another 4-8 years ??? Obama for Change in 08

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/asia/july-dec99/wto_11-15.html

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

DO NOT LISTEN TO MEDIA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:13:59 GMT

am sick of the Obama parade that has been led by the media and then followed by the same amount of sheep that followed the Bush parade.

Obama will win the democratic nomination because the media has only given positive messages about him and only negative messages about Hillary. Everyone forgets how well the country was doing during the Clinton administration. All we hear is negatives. Fine, after 8 years of no experience Bush, we will have no experience Obama. Don't get me wrong, I like Obama, but Hillary is the better choice. She will get things done, not just talk about getting things done.

As a life long democrat, I have finally become disillusioned with the whole thing. People no longer think for themselves. WE will pay again...mark my words.
Geralyn (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:34 AM)
-----------------------------------------------

AND THE WAR PARADE! DO NOT FORGET HOW THE MEDIA SHOVED THE WAR DOWN OUR THROATS!
THEY NEVER PRINT POSTS ABOUT THEIR FALIURE, THE WAR THEY HELPED BUSH START AND CONTINUE FOR ALL THESE YEARS! THEY FAILED US THEN AND THEY FAIL US NOW!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

DO NOT LISTEN TO MEDIA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:14:40 GMT

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

CJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:15:32 GMT

Washington Post has more to add:

Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton helped secure more than $340 million worth of home-state projects in last year's spending bills, placing her among the top 10 Senate recipients of what are commonly known as earmarks, according to a new study by a nonpartisan budget watchdog group.

Working with her New York colleagues in nearly every case, Clinton supported almost four times as much spending on earmarked projects as her rival for the Democratic presidential nomination, Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.), whose $91 million total placed him in the bottom quarter of senators who seek earmarks, the study showed.......

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

e lombardi, frederick, md — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:16:32 GMT

Has anyone asked Senator Clinton why she loaned $5 million to her campaign instead of contributing $5 million to her campaign? Mit Romney was criticized by many for using his own money, but at one point he said he wouldn't dare ask people to contribute without doing so himself -- that he was the largest donor to his own campaign. It made me wonder why Mrs. Clinton loaned the money rather than donating it. I really don't know anything about her personal wealth, but I am curious to learn of it since the loan was given.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Eva hEFFRON — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:17:25 GMT

Obama has no substance to his speeches. We can , we can , we can.That tells me nothing about his plans .for this country. I will never vote for him . Any big catastrophy could happen in this country; between now and election day and he would be counted out fast. Wait till the republicans get done tearing hhim down, his 'we can' speeches will be to avail.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Cheryl, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:18:43 GMT

Clinton's out of money? Give me a break! What's next? Strategic tears...a wrinkled, mis-matched pant suit along with a plea to help her to get back into the White House so she can do it bigger and "better" than Bill?

One thing for sure, for this voter; the only time I want to see teary eyes from my Presidential candidate OR President is when he/she attends the funeral of his/her spouse, child or parent(s), a soldier killed in Iraq, helps pull a dead child from flooded waters, a burning building or other horrific circumstances OR
anything else of this type of real tragedy.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Kristian O — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:20:15 GMT

The idea that a graduate of schools like Columbia and Harvard is lacking in substance is flat out stupid. Please Clintonistas, Hold it down. You sound bad. Hold it down.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Elizabeth, Bay Area, CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:22:33 GMT

In Case You Missed It: "Obama's (economic) plan. is the most shameless piece of potential plagiarism that I have ever seen. He basically took Clinton's words and Clinton's policies and called them his own. If I were a professor I'd give him an F and try to get him kicked out of school," said Kevin Hassett, Sen. John McCain's economic advisor and the Director of Economic Policy Studies at the American Enterprise Institute.

IS ANYBODY TALKING ABOUT THIS????
This is why he refuses to debate her. He has few original ideas of his own. Either play fair or don't play at all.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

raider dem, maryland — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:24:38 GMT

Ask them NOT TO COUNT the Michigan or Florida votes
-----
Don't let the Democratic nomination be 'stolen' or 'tainted'
Sierra, SF

-----------------------------------------------------
Its kind of awkward to say DON'T count votes and follow it up with 'don't let the nomination be stolen or tainted'.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark, Kansas City — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:24:40 GMT

This is all making me sick. It used to be that being a Democrat stood for something. Now being a Democrat means you know how to put the best spin on being a flake. Hillary has more bad baggage than freightliner - and that doesn't even count her liar husband. I have children now growing into young adults who heard all the news stories about his lying to her as a cheating husband and how he lied UNDER OATH!! I asked my adult daughter some time later if any of that had an affect on her, and her answer was this "Why should I worry about telling the truth? Not even the President of the United States does." Whatever Bill thinks he did good for us, he wiped away when his real side was revealed. He did more damage to us as a nation with his character than any of the past 10 presidents. He makes me want to puke! And Hillary can't sit and make the claim she was kept informed of all the top secret situations going on in the White House and the Governor's mansion while at the same time she didn't know anything about all the other 'indiscretions'. She's been covering for him all along - on everything. And she can do that because she is just like him - a liar at heart. She treated us like she expected to be ordained as KING because it was her right the WE owed to her.

And now Obama comes along with all the best advertising spin he can muster up. "He's like Kennedy." "He's like Martin Luther King." He's like neither!! Both of them were real men who had substance to their speeches. So far Obama has done nothing but promise me he will cure all my ills, give me a comfortable retirement, make my dreams come true, solve the conflicts of the world, grow the economy, make our military strong, and make life wonderful. I did some of my own math on the issue of universal health care and find that there is no way we can afford what he is promising. And when I look at some of his other promises, I find the same big idea, same grand talk, and same lack of reality to pay for them. Where I come from, we call his type of politician the same as what we used to call the guys who used to pedal snake oil - CON ARTISTS. He has the same dynamic convincing speech on why we need to buy into his line of bull. He is a con man in a political role. I've lost all respect for him since I really looked at what he is saying.

I am ashamed of our party for putting these two low quality people up as "Choices". They aren't choices. They are like poison pills. These are the types of Democrats that are taking us in the wrong direction. Being a Democrat needs to go back to the days when being a Democrat stood for something - not these "Choices" who will promise us anything just to get elected.

I heard some of the Republicans talk about voting for a Democrat because their two choices were not worthy. At this point, I'm starting to look at their guys because I don't like what I see here. McCain is about as interesting as watching paint dry, but I would rather have him than Hillary. I would rather have an uneventful 4 years of a Republican than shallow promises made to me by a dreamer who can't pay for what he wants for me unless he raises my taxes. I'm already taxed to death. I don't need more. And at least McCain will be working on our side because he has shown he doesn't always go the way the rest of the Republicans want him to vote.

So like I said, I'm sick of my Democrat party and thinking of voting Republican (yuk) but I'll do what I gotta do rather than let Hillary or Barack (whichever is our choice) take the party down any more.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

RC - Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:25:07 GMT

I believe in Change and Solutions and I therefore support Hillary Clinton for President.

Hillary is tested and ready to bring real solutions to the life of us working class people, hispanics, women, african-americans, etc.

Obama is a media star and appeals to the young people and wealthy men who are not - what a surprise for the female candidate.

Support Hillary Clinton. Our media is made up of wealthy men who are biased against her. Don't listen to the media. Listen to your own intelligence!! Make up your own mind based on the facts. Go to Hillary.com.

P. S. 1 million 300,000 people voted in Florida for Hillary and our votes should count!! And no, it is not ok to have new elections in the form of a caucus or party officials voting for the people.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Pamela, Houston, TX — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:26:31 GMT

I just dont understand why the press and media is giving all their Kudos to Obama. They and all of his followers acts as if this man walks on water. As soon as Hillary gets some good press Obama followers go on the defense. I feel that in the end whom ever gets the nomination on the Democratic side will have a long and hard fight ahead of them. I STRONGLY BELIEVE THAT HILLARY will prove to be the strongest against McCain in the general election. Obama has no idea what he is going up against in the general elections against a strong man like McCain. If Obama is on the ballot in November, I will vote for McCain.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Ellie Moor — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:26:50 GMT

I think it is very telling that Hillary Clinton's choice of Patti Solis for her campaign manager-- and her subsequent replacement of Solis with another 'crony', is indicative of cronism. Clearly Patti did not receive this most important job-- running Clinton's Presidential bid- based on her ability, but more for her loyalty.

Sound like someone else you know who appoints his pals instead of the most competent?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Marva, Houston TX — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:26:51 GMT

I also am a lifelong republican who is embarrassed by my party and will never vote for McCain or Mr Obama. Senator Clinton has my vote this time. I won't vote otherwise.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

RC-Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:27:48 GMT

Rob above is mistating the facts. Hillary said she would have NAFTA reviewed, improved and revised. He didn't mention that. Obama did not commit to doing anything more about Nafta and he won't debate Hillary on the issue.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

marywesterminstermd — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:28:59 GMT

i cant belive those two idoits russert and williams are going to narrate again.. they never asked oabma any tough questions they sucked up to him and tried to bring seantor clinton down. is it any wonder people saymsnbc sucks .posted by mary.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Fort Worth, TX — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:29:50 GMT

I am a lifelong Democrat and well remember the Clinton years. Yes there were problems with Monica and healthcare, but I for one have never done as well financially as I did in those years. And just think we had an actual budget surplus. The Clintons have always had excellent advisers on the issues that most lower and middle class Americans care about. I think it is a shame that everyone has forgotten about what they did to build up our country. Hillary has a good record in the Senate also.

Another thing that continues to bother me is where on earth did Obama come from. Not where he was born but how did he goe from a keynote speaker 4 years ago to one of the leading Democrats in the country. I wonder who has helped push him these past 4 years to where he is today. I know we live in the age of instant media results, but how did he make such a meteoric rise to the top in such a short time? Something about that worries me. I wish I could understand how it all happened but I still don't get it. Obama is a very intellectual person and has a good personality but I felt they were grooming him for something when he did that speech, but now I am wondering who has put up the money to bring him this far. Not campaign fund raising but how he got so much attention so fast.

The younger voters are attracted by his charisma and speaking abilities. They don't remember how it was in 1990-1991 when a lot of people were struggling and how much President Clinton's administration helped the poor and the middle class to rise to a little more prosperity. Of course George Bush has long since decimated any gains that were made. We need someone that has some working knowledge of how to best help those that are struggling.

All I can say is I don't think Obama has the experience to do it. So GO HILLARY!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

qlr Columbus,Ohio — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:30:22 GMT

today with the help of the media, trying to tell the State of Ohio,that Hillary is leading in the polls,to ask a question? what polls are they looking at? I think they are still looking at "NEW HEMPSHIRE POLLS",
I am a Republican,The State of Ohio,(R)Senator John McCain (D)Senator Barack Obama.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Tim Myers, Centennial, CO — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:31:16 GMT

I have thrown my support behind the one candidate who has proved he can galvanize a fractured populace and lead us together to achieve significant change, change that this country desperately needs. Barack Obama is that leader. I have never seen the kind of excitement in a political process that this candidate creates. He's criticized for lack of experience. I discount that criticism because George W. had more political experience and look at the failed policies both foreigh and domestic, that his leadership achieved. So, I will go with the candidate (Barack Obama) who has the best chance of bringing the disparate groups together and deliver the legislation that will tackle the economy, healthcare, Iraq, infrastructure, education, and a myriad of other problems that we collectively face.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

LSmith, Houston, TX — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:41:39 GMT

I heard a radio interview with Bill Clinton (posted on youtube) on Tuesday and he basically said of the caucus state voters -'they do not need a president, but they want change' I think their strategy was low voter turnout and that was a huge misjudgement on their part - maybe people did have a bit of Clinton fatigue!
The Clinton's have demonstrated their bad judgement and hard headedness many times over the past 35 years - hopefully the majority of voters left to vote will see the need for true change. Solutions can only be found through real change!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Jane — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:41:44 GMT

Dee Ann Roberts,
GROW UP and have some composure. Old white ladies and latinos are a very coveted demographic that Obama would love to score. The sniveling "support" that you are giving to Obama is exactly the kind that will cause a general election LOSS. Pull it together!
Sincerely,
Old half white/half latino Lady Jane

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

MK,MO — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:44:01 GMT

anybody that thinks the clintons are low on funds is being foolish, they have the money to spend they would just rather spend your money, just look at her tax return, oh wait a minute she refuses to release that imfo, the clintons have enough money hidden out of the country to choke a horse, they seem to think they shoudn't pay taxes like the rest of us,
GO HILLARY, GO AWAY

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

CitizenJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:44:31 GMT

RE: Quinnipiac polls

Ohio:
11/26 - 12/03 436 RV 45 19 Clinton +26.0
02/06 - 02/12 564 LV 55 34 Clinton +21.0

Pennsylvania:
11/26 - 12/03 462 RV 43 15 Clinton +28.0
02/06 - 02/12 577 LV 52 36 Clinton +16.0

So, while she is leading, her lead has been cut into.

My point: You can make these numbers do whatever you want them to do. How about we wait and see who the people vote for. Isn't that the poll that really matters?

Or is it the superdelegates? I don't know anymore.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Joseph, WI — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:45:37 GMT

The faith you have in Obama is ridiculous and displaced - He is an outright liar just like his campaign manager David Axelrod is. Axelrod is a Jew plus an African American promoter also from the world of Chicago politics.
I have to question if Obama reported the Rezco "so called bonehead deal as described by Obama" to the IRS as income. If he somehow got a home for $300,000 under its value due to an underhanded transaction that was done by Rezco on the lot next door, then that is income. I believe his tax returns should be scrutinized to see if he reported that as a gain. I would bet "NO"
Patrick Fitzgerald the U.S. Attorney has referred to
Obama as "the un-named politican in the Rezco indictment. That trial starts on Feb. 25th and Rezco awaits trial now in jail.
Obama just may get a huge March surprise both from the U.S. Government and the Clinton Campaign's wins over him.
It would be funny to see Obama also charged for unreported income due to the house deal, and not just real surprising!!
IRS you owe it to all of us to thoroughly investigate this deal and if Obama did declare this as personal income and pay taxes on it?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sophia, Los Angeles — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:45:56 GMT

Haters.....LISTEN UP

You Clintonistas who are so up in arms about the republicans having a feild day with Obama....

NEWS FLASH!!!

If anyone was listening to NPR yesterday evening in a interview with Mechell Norris (i Believe) McCain Adviser and G.W. Bush Former Speech writer made this astonishing claim......

IF OBAMA WERE THE DEM. NOMINEE.....HE WOULD RESIGN FROM HIS POSITION AS McCAIN'S TOP ADVISER....

WHY?????

HE ADMIRES AND RESPECT'S OBAMA TOO MUCH TO PARTAKE IN THE NATURAL MUDSLINGING IN A CAMPAIGN AGAINST OBAMA!!!!!

WOW.....WOULD THAT EVER BE SAID OR DONE FOR HILLARY??

NO....THIS IS PERCISELY WHY OBAMA HAS THE UNIQUE ABILITY TO GET THINGS DONE IN WASHINGTON....HE DEMANDS THE UTMOST RESPECT FROM ALL PEOPLE NOT JUST PARTY BASEHEADS....

Go ahead Hillary supporters try and bash on that...if the Clinton's can't stop Obama...what makes you think McCain can stop him with his team leaving him??

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Anthony, Oceanside CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:46:01 GMT

OHIO PEOPLE: It is being said that only college educated people vote for Obama. Which I agree because smart people do not want drama and baggage brought to this great country anymore. Ohio people show the media and press that you can cast your vote for Sen. Obama and not have to be college educaated to see the country do better without scandle and drama.

Look Clinton is not even in office yet and people are resigning because she has no sense of family Patti Solis child did not even want to go to her because Hillary kept Patti Solis gone so long. Hillary Clinton is bad news. Vote for who you want Ohio but Clinton is not your ticket unless you want want Soap Opera Digest.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Jack, Las Vegas, NV — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:47:46 GMT

You folks looking at Obama having some great surge in the Ohio and Pennsylvania are bothered by the margin. Remember California, I recall many of you getting all excited about the fact that he was closing the gap and taking the lead in California, but he lost big! His victories are big in caucus states in black states (he said there are no blue states or red states). I was at the Nevada caucus and saw several african american voters supporting Hillary chased away by other african americans, its not surprizing that he continues to do well in caucus states.

I say lets not worry about the polls, let the people vote in those states and whatever happens, happens.

Remember, George Bush had a vision and was going to unite the country, just like Obama.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Randy, Danville, kentucky — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:48:04 GMT

I have 5 questions for the candidates. They are as follows:

1. Do you know how to inhale?
2. How do you smoke a cigar properly?
3. What is your definition of sex?
4. Who was the last american president impeached?
5. Would you answer the first four questions under a lie detector test? Why do some sensitive government jobs require a lie detector test, but others don't?
I'm sorry, I guess I got carried away because that was six questions instead of five!!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Pissed off in Illinois, O'Fallon, IL — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 17:49:23 GMT

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:13:43 GMT

Mark Thieme:

That is fascinating. Who knew? Assuming you're right, we were all so close to a spy vs spy game being played, and most of us knuckleheads were oblivious to it.

If any of what Mark said is correct, I'd like to second his thanks to Van, for service to the Obama campaign above and beyond the call of duty. You know, if I was running a campaign, its yet another reason to keep staffers off these message boards. People get caught up, carried away... and you don't want that happening to someone who really knows what's going on.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

LSC - Montana — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:14:05 GMT

Dear Pissed off in Illinois, O'Fallon, IL ,

I think we could be close friends!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Cheeseheads for Clinton — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:15:31 GMT

nurseratchet: Thank you so much for doing your homework! Obama is NOT what is claims to be.

CONGRATS to nurseratchet and Steve, NY.. BRILLIANT..

It's not a pep rally people - research Obama.. Don't let the Media fool you it'll only prove the ignorance of America once again..

HILLARY 08

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:15:47 GMT

I support Sen Obama. No, I'm not highly educated, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Lucy Grenowski, Madison, Wisconsin — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:26:26 GMT

Delegates are the name of the game. As Chuck Todd explained on MSNBC, for Hillary to go ahead of Obama in Pledged Delegates, she will have to win close to 60% of all future delegates. Even these outdated Quinnipiac polls do not show that great of a margin. And these polls will most likely tighten as the weeks go by.

The bottom line is this: Obama has shown the broadest appeal nationwide. He can attract Independents and Republicans. As he showed Tuesday in MD and VA, he can get Hillary's base. He will win all of the traditionally Democratic states that he has won in the Primaries as well as NY, NJ, MA, and CA which Hillary won. He will carry Illinois. He will very likely win swing states like Missouri, Maine, Colorado, Iowa, and Washington. He could win GOP states like Kansas and Nebraska. He will quite likely win VA and be competitive, if not win, some other southern states like Georgia. He will be the better Democratic candidate to go up against McCain. And he was "Right from day one" on the Iraq War!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

mary — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:27:28 GMT

we had 8 years of Billhill I am not looking forward to 4 to 8 years of Hillbill. We all know who wears the pants in that family Not Bill. If and I say if Hill were to win is she going by by a zapper for bill and his wondering body parts?? or chain him to the oval office desk?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Jen Waukesha, WI — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:33:26 GMT

When will we have a democracy with real choices for candidates? There is no way that 2 parties can encompass the masses. Where are our 3rd, 4th, even 5th options for parties/candidates? I am so sick of being forced to choose between the lesser of 2 evils, and not having any real choices. No wonder millions don't vote, it feels like throwing your vote away, knowing your true voice will not be heard!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

HP Boston — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:33:40 GMT

Working with her New York colleagues in nearly every case, Clinton supported almost four times as much spending on earmarked projects as her rival for the Democratic presidential nomination, Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.), whose $91 million total placed him in the bottom quarter of senators who seek earmarks, the study showed.......

CJ (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:15 PM)

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

Gee I hope to God she got a bridge to nowhere for NY.
The rpukes had more earmarks then any other Congress EVER!! Also the biggest deficit EVER! Run by the WORST LEADERS AND PRESIDENT EVER!
Senator Clinton did a superb job for her state in spite of the repukes, that is leadership! Obama is lazy!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Alan, NJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:33:46 GMT

Kristian O...GWB graduated from Yale Business School

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

rich dayton oh — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:34:34 GMT

'The faith you have in Obama is ridiculous and displaced - He is an outright liar just like his campaign manager David Axelrod is. Axelrod is a Jew plus an African American promoter also from the world of Chicago politics.' Joseph WI

Hey joe......what does Axelrod's Jewishness have to do with anything? I guess that flies in the face that Obama is a Muslim huh?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

gb — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:37:29 GMT

JUST MY OPINION: Senator Clinton's campaign made mistakes from the beginning by not hiring at least a few of the men and women who successfully guided her husband to two terms in the White House. One of them, David Wilhelm, has endorsed Senator Obama, while James Carville is working in what seems like virtual clandestine fashion and the last I heard Paul Begala talks a good story, but has not been asked to step into an active role. As more information comes out about the handling of the campaign by those whom Senator Clinton chose--for their blind loyalty, not their competence--it becomes more apparent why she's in trouble. I'm no politician, but even I can see you need people in responsible postions who TiVo their soaps--or give them up altogether until the job at hand is done. And that's not even covering the money issues, the failure to rein in Bill Clinton's incorrigibly prolix style of nattering for the cameras--need I go on?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Kevin, CR Iowa — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:41:03 GMT

Jack in Las Vegas,
Would you vote for a candidate who does NOT have vision and a desire to unite the country? I wouldn't. Just because Bush was too inept and stupid to accomplish it doesn't mean we shouldn't expect that from a president, and it most certainly doesn't mean Obama cannot accomplish it.

YES WE CAN!!!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Dave in Idaho — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:41:07 GMT

Okay, here we go again. Lets see if the boys at msnbc will print this. JUST ONE QUESTION! IS IT TRUE THAT OBAMA REUSES TO SALUTE THE FLAG AND SAY THE PLEDGE? I'm a Republican that is having a tough time even considering McCain let alone Huckabee and I'm looking for a viable alternative with the Dems.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Bill, Albany NY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:44:48 GMT

I know this is buried in the sand here, but are all of you this dumb? As Republicans we want Sen Clinton in the race. Yeah, we bad mouth her, we want her numbers low, we want her on the attack and looking bad, we want her beatable.

Sen Obama is attractive to the moderate Republican voters, including myself, who are fed up with the Neo-Cons taking over our party and Bush's liberal fiscal policies. If Sen Clinton wins, I have a clear choice. If she loses then I may need to think. You really believe that as Republicans we want Clinton to lose?

Even Rush and Hannity have begun laying off her because her numbers are getting too low for comfort.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Jose ,, Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:46:47 GMT

change,, hope,,,i am a latino inmigrant ,, american citizen,,, i came to this wonderfull country ,, becouse of the way life,,is not perfet ,, but ,, we don't need to change it ,, we need to fix it ,, and the there are 2 persons , can do that ,, Clinton(i am voted for her )but if obama win de democratic party i will vote for McCain,,i am not put my childrens in the hands of a TV salesman like Obama ,, like thouse home shoping net....they tell you anything just to sale, some big interest are there for Obama ; big ones,, get real before you vote ,,, we can't afford to take a chance with some body like Obama,we don't want to change this country, we some body to make it better,,Latinos for Clinton

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

JP Cruz, Orlando Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:50:39 GMT

This whole democratic America voting 100% with their hearts and not with their brains is really beginning to sicken me. When I listen to Barack Obama speak, I'm not gonna lie, yes I do feel inspired and after a while you begin to feel a sense of hope from him . . . but I'm a realist and that just doesn't cut it for me.

I want someone that has been tested and has made mistakes in the past that they have learned from - not some popular hotshot rookie winning the "Most Likely to Succeed" contest for the high school yearbook.

If some entity were to hold a "gun" to the head of the United States of America I would feel A LOT more secure and comfortable with Hillary as our Commander in Chief. She is a bulldog, a FIGHTER, and NOT AFRAID to come after you and stand up for what she believes in.

Recently Hillary has on multiple occasions challenged Obama to debates and his camp has shyed him away because THEY KNOW that she eats him for breakfast in debates and it makes him look bad. That to me just shows a sign of weakness.

Don't get me wrong I find Obama a great candidate and inspiring. If he does end up winning the nomination I will vote for him because I'm democratic, but I will do so with a saddened heart knowing that America turned its back on one of our most valuable assets.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

sally from NC — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:52:44 GMT

MSNBC: this is the second time that you have not posted my comments even though they are very respectful to the readers and both candidates. I wondered why Mrs Obama has not been treated as pimped by MSNBC in the way Ms Clinton was. No offense to Mrs Obama. Just wondering why the journalist form MSNBC has not being fired because he has offended not only Obama's or Clinton's followers, but the intelligence of all of us that read MSNBC.Because of this as a woman I just made my decision to follow Mrs Clinton. No offense Senator Obama.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

melissa — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:52:49 GMT

Lets remember he ahs a terrible trade agreement with Peru remember John Edwards brought out that. So once again Obama can not take the high ground on the trade issue.

Remember also his health care has a mandate also, so this could mean alot of hard working families could be garnished also from his plan a mandate is a mandate.

And please he isn't going to help anyone with high interests like he stated in the debate he felt 30% interest wasn't to high then quickly changed that when Edwards questioned that.

Driver's License for illegals could make them documented illegals which could lead to deportation.

He also is getting a lot of money from huge corporations like Excelon, Citicorp and many others (he can not say anything about Clinton he gets far more)

And as for the war SORRY he wasn't there to give his vote, and has stated many times that he doesn't know how he would vote. SO SORRY DOESN"T COUNT

Voted way to many times present and then in the sent voted to OK Condi Rice Why?

what about Keyna? and how deep is he involved with their elections?

I could go on but I won't maybe you will do some of your own research on a Pipe Dream known as Obama

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Bill, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:57:47 GMT

Steve from NY
Your right. Clinton has done nothing to offend me, but after all these years of experience she has done nothing to help me. I think both Clinton and Obama can beat McCain but Clinton has no coatails because of here divisive personality. Just by the fact that Obama can turn out a huge Afican-American vote could flip 30 or more congressional districts in the south alone that the Republicans have been winning by around 5%. More than 30 more Democratic congress people plus more Senators? Universal health care would be a slam dunk, getting out of Iraq a lot more likly, and putting some decent judges on the Federal courts, a piece of cake. If Clinton wins you just get more of the same old partisan BS is DC because congress will have the same narrow margings that create gridlock.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

JP Cruz, Orlando Florida — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:59:01 GMT

I'm from Orlando, Florida and the last time I checked it was the UNITED States of America, Not the 48 States of America - the Michigan and Florida votes SHOULD count because the residents of those states deserve to have their opinions be heard on who they want for president.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

S Ruff, Virginia — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:59:43 GMT

JORDAN

You write that it is hyperbole to state that you would vote for Obama but not Clinton. I guess I am guilty. I am not a Democrat. I am an Independent and I voted for McCain in 2000. I consider myself moderate and on some issues I agree with McCain and some I agree with Obama/Clinton. I don't think Clinton can accomplish much of what she proposes because she is so decisive and eager to fight. So by electing her we will have gridlock politics and nothing will get done. McCain is reasonable and as long as the right wing nuts don't corrupt him too much will make a better President than Hillary Clinton. So I proudly state that as an Independent I will vote my first choice; Barrack Obama or my second choice John McCain.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

CJ — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:02:42 GMT

Puala as far as Obama in the general election vs McCain.

California - Democratic (c'mon Maria Shriver supports Obama)
New York - in the bag
Florida - Obama wins amoung seniors and youth
Ohio - Obama wins on economic issues

There is no debating these. Plus the Red states chose Obama over Clinton...she actually has to win those. People should remember Obama is a democrat, her votes migrate to whomever the nominee is. At this point he is more electable. It's not difficult logic.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark Thieme — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:05:34 GMT

Is it just me, or have the Clintons morphed in Hubert Humphrey?

2008: "I am THRILLED to be here (wherever)!"
1968: "I am PLEASED AS PUNCH to be be here (wherever)!"

Maybe that's it... the Clintons are stuck in a time warp where it's always 1968...

Humphrey won the nomination that year... and gave us six years of Dick, Watergate, bomb, bomb, bombing Cambodia...

Hope died that year on the floor of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles...

Pleased as punch. Thrilled to be here.

So 1968.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Wake up and smell the coffee dems! — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:08:32 GMT

Obama is a Muslim, he is friends with Louis Farrakan, he has a nasty drug past, his church is anti-white and racist. These are the few things the repubs will throw at this newcomer and that is just the tip of the iceberg because none of us really know this man. We will soon if he is the nominee.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Florida Democrat — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:09:36 GMT

If the Obama campaign is so concerned with protecting the rights of the voters why have they fought so hard to silence the 1.7 million Democrats who voted in Florida.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

av, n.j — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:15:14 GMT

change?.....there's no such thing as CHANGE in politics.....the game NEVER CHANGES.....only the players..........

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

John, San Francisco, CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:18:33 GMT

The people want change; the Clintons are status quo.
Please, Hilary, drop out so we can say goodbye to all that.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:27:13 GMT

'...Okay, here we go again. Lets see if the boys at msnbc will print this. JUST ONE QUESTION! IS IT TRUE THAT OBAMA REUSES TO SALUTE THE FLAG AND SAY THE PLEDGE?...'

Thanks for bringing up the important smears

I guess this means the Clinton team has NOTHING except smears and muslim accuasations.....

PLEASE, Keep it up !
Hillary will be easier to keep off the ticket this way

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark Thieme — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:27:42 GMT

BTW... Ever notice when Hillary first comes to a state (wherever) she exults that she is THRILLED to be there...

And when she loses that very state in a few days after Obama overcame her apparent double digit lead she says,

"Oh, I never took (wherever) seriously. A lot of black people live there and there are smart white people there too."

How many ways can you use "arrogant" in a sentence?

Makes me hope all the smart black and white people hear Hillary's THRILLED for what it is.

What it is.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

HP Boston — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:31:16 GMT

Why are douchebags allowed on these forums? It's one thing to use information to make your claims and even sling mud at someone for their views, but it's another to get on a forum and continue to slander people and demean their character. You may not like the candidates on whatever issues you have with them, but to say the country is retarded for believing in a war hero, a woman or an African American (who isn't Muslim by the way, you stupid, ignorant idiots I believe in Hillary and NoMoreLesserOf2Evils!) is condemnable on any level. No one calls you an idiot (except me just now) for having your beliefs and this is exactly the kind of ignorance that we have to battle against in the world.
Pissed off in Illinois, O'Fallon, IL (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:49 PM)

----------------------------------------------
You seem to be at the Head of the pecker tracks here buddy. Take your douche bag attitude and bugger off. You are in such bad company we do not want to further piss you off.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Kim, Pasadena, CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:32:53 GMT

I am so tired of hearing that people don't want to elect a woman. I AM a woman and I wanted nothing more than to elect a woman. The problem is that the woman running, Senator Clinton, is NOT the right candidate with the right message or judgment to lead this Country.

I have received those e-mails telling me that as a woman I have to vote for Senator Clinton even if she is not the best candidate. If I don't these e-mails say, I hate myself and am a misogynist. Because I am a feminist (and Rush Limbaugh would call me a femi-nazi) I won't buy your manipulation. I am more than capable of looking at the candidates and making up my own mind!

I am a woman, but I am also an American. I have to live in this Country. My family and friends have to live in this Country. I will NOT dismiss Senator Obama simply because he is a man and I am a white woman. Senator Obama is the right candidate at the right time with the right judgment to be President of the United States.

Hopefully a woman will run one day who is as good a candidate as Senator Obama is. When that day comes I will gladly and proudly vote for, work for and plead for that woman's cause. Unfortunately, Senator Clinton is not that candidate. Stop playing the gender card!

To all of the women who read this post -- make up your own mind about who the right candidate is to unite this Country, get a working coalition and solve the problems we face! If you decide on Senator Clinton after a fair evaluation, that is fine with me. Nonetheless, I urge you not to make that decision simply because she is a woman. After all, we have to live with our decision and if the sole factor for your decision is that she is a woman, I hope you know that one qualification does not guarantee a good President.

Yes we can, Obama '08 -- coming from a feminist.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Betty in KY — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:36:32 GMT

Look where all this experience has gotten us. All those so called experienced people have screwed this country up big time. Politics as usual has got to end. It isnt working.

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:36:48 GMT

Dave Turner, Gilbert, IA:

'...The Clinton legacy: Hillary Clinton

Monica Lewinsky Innocent
Gennifer Flowers She LIED about this
Juanita Broaddrick She intimidate JB
Kathleen Willey Cover up
Whitewater She Swindled investors
Cattle futures very shady dealings
Rose Law firm, rperesenting corporate interests YES
Wal Mart board of directors YES
TravelGate She tried to plug in cronies
HairCutGate Bill did it
the NAFTA sell out CO-PRESIDENT
the WTO sell out CO-PRESIDENT
Millenium Communications bill CO-PRESIDENT
Vincent Foster GUILTY
Maggie Williams' conver up of Vincent Foster death GUILTY Campaign chairman
the McDougals GUILTY
Buddist Fund raising GUILTY
Norman Hsu CROOKED HILLARY

Need we continue
She's a CROOK !
She's dishonest, uenthical and crooked

Johnny Treu Innocent
Peter Paul Innocent
Marc Rich pardon Innocent
Carlos A. Vignali pardon Innocent
Roger Clinton pardon Innocent
Voting for the Iraq War YES
Voting for Kyl/Lieberman YES
Voting AGAINST the cluster bomb ban YES
'race-baiting' NO
the 'Politics of personal destruction'NO
'demonizing the opposition' NO
30 years of open, public adultery by Bill Innocent

I noticed that you took out the Iran vote, of course, Obama was a NO SHOW on that vote...'

Kyl-Lieberman IS the Iran vote

Sierra, SF (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:16 AM)

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark Thieme — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:04:13 GMT

Oh, and one more Valentine...
This deal about the blow-up in the Clinton campaign...

old news.

This war was going on in the green rooms of the debates all this winter. Knock-down drag-outs among staff, and often including the candidate. Lots of f-yous and a-holes flying, bouncing off the walls.

Here's the short deal: Hillary wants to kick ass any way, any time. Staff are paid to keep the campaign sane and some of them have had the cojones to stand up to her. Some of them are gone.

Look for scorched earth from here till eternity or the end of this cycle, whichever comes first.

Hillary is pissed and now anybody who could handle her is history.

See how THRILLED she is about to become!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Sierra, SF — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:06:30 GMT

Wake up and smell the coffee dems: '...Obama is a Muslim, he is friends with Louis Farrakan, he has a nasty drug past, his church is anti-white and racist. These are the few things the repubs will throw at this newcomer and that is just the tip of the iceberg ...'

Sorry, the Clintons ALREADY TRIED THOSE SMEARS !
They didn't work for Hillary
They won't work for Republicans
Frankly, I don't think Republicans are as DIRTY as the Clintons and their 'politics of personal destruction'

If the Republicans ran against Hillary.....
They wouldn't HAVE TO MAKE UP SMEARS
They could just TELL THE TRUTH ABOUT THE CLINTONS

People would remember how much they disliked them by the time their 'co-Presidency' ended

Remember how Al Gore RAN AWAY from Bill clinton ?
Remember how Al chose JOE LIEBERMAN (!?) because he seemed 'ethical' and 'honest' in contrast to Billary ?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

James G., Oak Park, MI — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:09:32 GMT

Lets remember he ahs a terrible trade agreement with Peru remember John Edwards brought out that. So once again Obama can not take the high ground on the trade issue.

melissa (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 1:52 PM)

On this point, you are in error. The AFL-CIO supported that trade agreement, so there is no issue there for Obama with unions. Besides, like he said in their debate, he'll be the President enforcing the rules of that agreement, not Dubya!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Stephen R. Gianelli, San Francisco, CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:17:36 GMT

If NH and CA have taught us anything it’s that the race on is too volatile to rely on polls.

Before the NH primary, every media outlet was declaring Hillary DOA.

In CA, the night before super Tuesday most polls (taken February 2-3) had Hillary down by 10 points, and she WON by 10 points—a 20 point spread.

I wish the MSM would let the primary process play itself out—through August 25 if necessary—and quit trying to coronate Obama. Three times now he has been crowned by the MSM, and twice dethroned by the primary voters.

I am also weary of those who are trying to vitiate the existing party rules pertaining to super delegates by suggesting that the super delegates have some obligation to vote for the candidate with the most states or the majority of pledged delegates.

That is NOT what the rules provide.

Look, the primary rules are arcane and wasteful and should be revised, but not in the middle of an election cycle to fulfill some desired result.

The Clinton’s have paid their dues to this party over decades, and if the super delegates conclude (in the face of neither candidate winning enough pledged delegates to resolve the race) that Hillary is best suited to defeat McCain (as the most current polls suggest) then they should be free to vote as they see fit.

That is what the rules provide and the purpose the rules were intended to serve.

If the argument is for a straight up popular vote to decide the nominee, then change the rules after the 2008 election cycle.

PS: If Donna Brazile does not like the rules in place BEFORE she became a super delegate, she should resign NOW, and not after things do not go her way.

Stephen R. Gianelli
San Francisco, California

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

HP Boston — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:22:22 GMT

Mark Thieme ()

Why are douchebags allowed on these forums? It's one thing to use information to make your claims and even sling mud at someone for their views, but it's another to get on a forum and continue to slander people and demean their character. You may not like the candidates on whatever issues you have with them, but to say the country is retarded for believing in a war hero, a woman or an African American (who isn't Muslim by the way, you stupid, ignorant idiots I believe in Hillary and NoMoreLesserOf2Evils!) is condemnable on any level. No one calls you an idiot (except me just now) for having your beliefs and this is exactly the kind of ignorance that we have to battle against in the world.
Pissed off in Illinois, O'Fallon, IL (Sent Thursday, February 14, 2008 12:49 PM)

----------------------------------------------
You seem to be at the Head of the pecker tracks here buddy. Take your douche bag attitude and bugger off. You are in such bad company we do not want to further piss you off.
HP Boston (Sent Thursday

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

J.Ed - New Mexico — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:26:19 GMT

It is so sad that we have such die hard HRC supporters that accuse anyone who disagrees with them of being blind sheep. They argue the 'experience' issue as if to say that the more you repeat it eventually it becomes true. Hillary has less time as an ELECTED official as Barack. Secondly, she claims her residency at the whitehouse as part of her resume, if so then possibly someone in the kitchen staff could run for office too. Afterall they probably have served several administrations as well as foreign dignataries. Does anyone agree, SHE WAS NOT ELECTED 1st LADY?
The last point I want to make is, the statement: 'Ready on day one' is worn out, has anyone out there started a new job and not been READY on day one? How many of our greatest presidents have NOT had the prior experience and with the help of Staff and Congress, Senate and Judiciary have served America well?

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mark Thieme — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:29:02 GMT

HP: like you, if I wanted to call someone an idiot (or even a douchebag) I would sign my name.

Since we are old friends, I'll let that one go.

Cheers!

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Yulduz Akhmedzanova, Huntington Beach, CA — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:35:13 GMT

Hillary supporters,
please, read this:

IT professionals nationwide-voted Hillary Clinton its “Weasel Award,” which is given each year to business and political leaders who betray the trust of the American people.

Read more on the topic here:
http://www.redpills.org/?p=348

Hillary Clinton supports job outsourcing to India and her receiving donations in return - at our expense!

That is why I voted for Obama. I have no choice, because I am IT professional.

YA

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Dante — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 21:01:55 GMT

Clinton Campaign Falsely Attacks Obama's Economic Plan
February 13, 2008

"If the Clinton campaign ever bothered to check their facts before attacking, they'd know that Barack Obama's comprehensive energy plan to create millions of new jobs was introduced a month before Senator Clinton's, and that his infrastructure plan invests billions more to rebuild our roads, bridges, and schools than hers does. But the real problem in Washington is not a lack of good ideas, it's the failure to come together and solve our problems because politicians are too busy scoring cheap political points like this one." -- Obama Spokesman Bill Burton

RHETORIC: Obama's "'New' Proposal For A National Infrastructure Bank Is One That Hillary Proposed August 8, 2007."

REALITY: Infrastructure Bank Proposals Have Been Around For A While--But Clinton Wasn't Always a Fan

2005 Democratic Senate Bill Included Infrastructure Banks, With 13 Cosponsors, But Clinton Wasn't One of Them. In 2005, Sen. Sarbanes sponsored, along with 13 other Democratic cosponsors, "A bill to provide for alternative transportation in certain federally owned or managed areas that are open to the general public." Part of the bill read, "A qualified project assisted under this section shall be eligible for funding through a State Infrastructure Bank or other innovative financing mechanism otherwise available to finance an eligible project under this chapter." Sen. Clinton was not a cosponsor of the bill. [S. 890, Introduced 4/22/05]

Clinton Also Did Not Sign Onto the 2003 Bill. Sen. Sarbanes also introduced "A bill to provide for alternative transportation in certain federally owned or managed areas that are open to the general public" in 2003. There were 18 cosponsors, all Democrats, including Schumer, Dodd and Corzine, but Sen. Clinton was not one of them. [S. 1032, Introduced 5/8/03]

RHETORIC: Obama's "'New' Proposal To Create 5 Million Green Collar Jobs Was Proposed By Hillary On November 5, 2007"

REALITY: Obama Advocated for Green Collar Jobs for Years--And Unveiled His Plan a Month Before Clinton Unveiled Hers

OCT 2007, MONTH BEFORE HILLARY'S PLAN: Obama's Said In His Energy Plan That Investing In Energy Would Create Millions Of New Jobs In The US. Obama said, "In meeting the challenges of earlier generations, we didn't just end a costly war or beat the Soviets to the moon - we also unleashed opportunities we had never dreamed of. The GI Bill sent an entire generation of Americans - including my grandfather - to college and then on to the middle-class. Legions of scientists and engineers emerged from our race to space whose discoveries and innovations have forever changed the world. That's why my plan isn't just about making dirty energy expensive, it's about making clean energy affordable - a project that will create millions of new jobs and entire new industries right here in America." [Speech, 10/8/07]

Apollo Alliance Co-Founder Bracken Hendricks Praised Obama's Energy Plan For Funding Programs To Train "Our Youth In The 'Green Collar Jobs' Of The Future. Hendricks, Co-founder of the Apollo Alliance and Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress said, "Barack Obama's plan to combat global warming and achieve energy security shows that investing in clean energy will drive good jobs and economic growth. This proposal reduces carbon emissions and boldly invests in clean energy alternatives and efficiency. From helping farmers locally produce bio-fuels, to training our youth in the 'green collar jobs' of the future; from helping US manufacturers retool to build more efficient cars, to creating a venture fund for emerging clean technology, this plan demonstrates that solving global warming is at the center of renewing America's economy." [Obama Release, 10/8/07]

SEP 2006: Obama Addressed Creating Green Collar Jobs In A Speech On Energy Independence. Obama said, "During World War II, we had an entire country working around the clock to produce enough planes and tanks to beat the Axis powers. In the middle of the Cold War, we built a national highway system so we had a quick way to transport military equipment across the country. When we wanted to beat the Russians into space, we poured millions into a national education initiative that graduated thousands of new scientists and engineers. If we hope to strengthen our security and create hundreds of thousands of new jobs, we can offer no less of a commitment to energy independence." [Speech, 9/20/06]

APR 2006: Obama Addressed Green Collar Jobs In A Speech On Fuel Efficiency Standards. Obama said, "But it's precisely because of that competition that they don't have a choice. China now has a higher fuel economy standard than we do, and Japan's Toyota is doubling production of the popular Prius to sell 100,000 in the U.S. this year. There is now no doubt that fuel-efficient cars represent the future of the auto industry. If American car companies hope to be a part of that future - if they hope to survive - they must start building more of these cars. This isn't just about energy - this is about the ability to create millions of new jobs and save an entire American industry." [Speech, 4/3/06]

Obama Called for Green Jobs in Audacity of Hope...Published in 2006. "What we can do is create renewable, cleaner energy sources for the twenty-first century. Instead of subsidizing the oil industry, we should end every single tax break the industry currently receives and demand that 1 percent of the revenues from oil companies with over $1 billion in quarterly profits go toward financing alternative energy research and the necessary infrastructure. Not only would such a project pay huge economic, foreign policy, and environmental dividends—it could be the vehicle by which we train an entire new generation of American scientists and engineers and a source of new export industries and high-wage jobs...Aggressively investing in alternative fuel sources can also lead to the creation of thousands of new jobs. Ten or twenty years down the road, that old Maytag plant in Galesburg could reopen its doors as a cellulosic ethanol refinery. Down the street, scientists might be busy in a research lab working on a new hydrogen cell. And across the way, a new auto company could be busy churning out hybrid cars. The new jobs created could be filled by American workers trained with new skills and a world-class education, from elementary school to college." [Audacity of Hope, p. 169-170]

First Thoughts: Hillary's tough press day

Mike G. — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 17:32:45 GMT

"If Hillary is the candidate, the democrats will lose for sure. There is a good 5-10% of voters in the middle that won't vote for her just because she is Hillary. Please let the Donkeys be dumb enough to nominate Hillary!"

Well said, Marcus. My friends and I are certainly in that category. We'll vote for Obama over McCain, but for McCain over Clinton. McCain over "Billary" is simply the lesser of two evils.