Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

kristina b, los angeles CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:54:15 GMT

yeah those closing comments sounded an awful lot like Edwards' closing comments back when he was in the running. what he said was:

Edwards said his resolution is to remember amid the political hoopla that there are hungry children, families without health coverage and parents losing their jobs. "All of us will be fine", he said of himself and his rivals: "What's at stake is whether America is going to be fine."

what Hilary said was almost identical.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

MONICA, SAN ANTONIO TEXAS — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:55:00 GMT

SHE WILL NOT WIN BECAUSE SHE HAD NO KNOCKOUT PUNCH TONIGHT. IT IS NOT ABOUT SEMANTICS. HE IS MUCH MORE APPROACHABLE AND A BETTER UNITER THAT IS OBVIOUS TO ALL.

HE ALSO SHOWS BETTER JUDGMENT AND IS BETTER AT TAKING MC CAIN DOWN.

GO BARACK GO BABY..

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Marv, Strongsville, Ohio — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:55:04 GMT

Check out Obama and his VP in a special preview

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sally — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:55:08 GMT

Obama debated very well tonight. He brought the crowds in and fused substance in with his oratory skills. Hillary conceded towards the end as I read it.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

dan — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:55:23 GMT

Hillary's close was (again) Hillary playing the victim. Hillary's use - exploitation, really - of war victims to identify with made me want to hurl.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rick,ky — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:55:36 GMT

Evidently, her best moment, she won't to be able to Capitalize on. Her ending was Great( i'll give her that).Unfortunately i missed all her word's at the end, but from the crowd response, it went over well.

As i posted on an earlier thread, she'll regret the day she asked for this debate, as it did Nothing to help her cause.

Barack Obama , the next President of the United States of America!!!!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lynnsy Logue, Charlotte, NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:56:08 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

T Terry, Gray, TN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 02:56:25 GMT

Good job on both candidates part. Good luck to Clinton, but Obama has it wrapped. Thanks to both of the candidates for one of the best political primaries in a long time.

Not only is this historic for a woman and an African-American, but also two class acts (despite the petty) and I must applaud the level of politics that this party has reached in a new era of politics.

Thank you both Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Barack Obama!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Teresa McCoy, Defiance OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:30:17 GMT

I've never donated to a presidential campaign until tonight.
My son fought in Iraq, my husband works for GM and I recently completed school to become a Real Estate Agent. For us, this election is probably the most important issue in our lives.
I've wrestled back and forth between Barack and Hillary, but tonight the debate reinforced my opinion that when the chips are down Barack will be the better president, so I donated to his campaign.
I am under the distinct impression that there has been way too much Clinton and Bush in the drivers seat at the White House. (Most of my adult life actually)
I'd really love to see someone totally different in office, and you can't get much different than Barack Obama. He hasn't had the chance to be corrupted by the monster called Washington, and he's still genuinly concerned about America. I believe he's strong and has the capacity to listen and learn.
I believe that Hillary would be better served as vice president.
I don't know how Barack will fare here in Ohio, but I'm hoping and praying that change will truly come to America. We deserve better!!!!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

William, Erin, Wisconsin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:31:20 GMT

Overall this was a very satisfactory debate. I think both candidates did well.

What I hoped for was that Senator Clinton would show more of who she is and not so much of what she hopes to become...since ultimately, no matter where we go...even should it be the Oval Office...there we are. Don't listen so much to your advisors, listen to your heart. There were glimpses of that heart this evening. Great.

Because of that, I admit for the first time that I am willing to say out loud, there is a possibility that I could be comfortable with a joint ticket. Yes, I could be comfortable with Obama/Clinton in 2008.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Andrea Berger — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:31:30 GMT

You are truly idiots if you believe that Obama even came close to her tonight on this debate. She had it all over him, hands down. I am not American, and am therefore, objective on this and I can tell you, objectively, that there was no comparison. The fact that you can't see this causes me great concern for your country. Say hello to another Republican administration (if Obama becomes the Democratic nominee, McCain will win....guaranteed) and when that happens, you can forget about a recession. A depression will be right around the corner.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jim , Eugene,Oregon — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:31:40 GMT

Hillary came across as she knows she is done , and i think she most likey is.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

mike, San Diego, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:31:42 GMT

Maybe I'm cycnical, but I felt that Clinton's final remarks were a calculated attempt to appear to be emotional. It's the only thing that has worked when the chips are down (e.g. New Hampshire tears) and it seems to be what she's falling back on.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Casey Schmidt, Seattle WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:32:21 GMT

Not to mention that the closing line sounded an awful lot like a line her husband's speechwriter wrote. Hypocrisy much.

Bill Clinton, 92: "The hits that I took in this election are nothing compared to the hits the people of this state and this country have been taking for a long time."

Hillary Clinton, tonight: "You know, the hits I’ve taken in life are nothing compared to what goes on every single day in the lives of people across our country."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Don, Maosn, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:32:42 GMT

Clinton's plagerism of John Edwards' frequent campaign statement, speaking of the Presidential candidates, that "We'll be alright. What's at stake is will Americans be fine," should encourage John Edwards to endorse Obama.

Otherwise, the Clintons are political Borg. Resistance is futile.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Andrea Berger — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:32:57 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mark Thieme — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:32:58 GMT

Until yesterday, Mark Penn was running the show.

There have been many shootouts in the Clinton campaign this past Fall and Winter and Penn won them all--because that's what Hillary wanted.

She was mad as hell and ready to kick ass. Anybody who suggested otherwise was silenced.

I fully expected, and predicted here, that there would be blood in the coming weeks... guns blazing and Howitzers booming.

Something happened yesterday. The numbers got a real hard crunch and reality set in.

Hillary was informed first by Bill and then others became involved... it was a scene.

Hillary refused to accept the news and was on the rampage, as far as anyone knew... maybe Bill knew.

But tonight something incredible happened. Mark Penn was ignored. Hillary went out and did what Hillary, seemingly, wanted to do. The other side of the dark side of the moon.

Without conceding, apparently she has decided to go out in style. And to play it for all it's worth.

She seems to have let go of the tiger, at least for now, and accepted what appears to be inevitable and to take whatever chance is left on being... gracious.

We'll see.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

joas salas northbergen nj — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:33:41 GMT

USE YOU GOD GIVEN RATIONALITY TO SEE THAT CLINTON HAS MADE HERSELF LOOK HORRIBLE IN THAT CLOSING SPEECH. SHE HAS MENTIONED IN TODAYS DEBATE THAT ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS, THEN GOES ON TO TALK ABOUT THE WOUNDED SOLDIERS THAT : SHE PUT INTO GREATER DANGER BY VOTING TO AUTHORIZE THE WAR IN IRAQ. OPEN UP YOUR EYES PEOPLE! SHE WAS ALL TALK AT THE END AND NO ACTION, EXACTLY WHAT SHE ACCUSED OBAMA OF DOING! LASTLY, WAS THE STANDING OVATION FOR HER CLOSING REMARK OR MORE FOR THE END OF THE DEBATE? BE HONEST WITH YOURSELVES.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Pia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:33:50 GMT

Although, I have never liked her or Bill, tonight was the first time, I actually felt any admiration for Hillary. At least she is going out with some dignity.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Frank S, Bellingham, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:33:58 GMT

Hillary had a hard time differentiating herself from Barack because their positions are virtually identical, with only minor nuances. If we wanted experience that she keeps harping on, she'd be debating Richardson, Biden or Dodd. And, in her closing argument she conveniently forgot to mention she had borrowed the line from Edward's playbook. Talk about plagiarism! Bottom line: Clinton didn't appear authentic.
Go Obama!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

John, Waco, tx. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:34:11 GMT

I believe they both did well, but Senator Clinton seemed to be in control of the pace for most of the debate. I think she could have attacked more on his hidden earmarks which no one seemed to notice that he evaded clarifying. I would feel much more secure watching Senator Clinton debate Senator McCain than I would if Senator Obama was the candidate. Don't give up Senator Clinton!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

BL, Cincinnati OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:34:32 GMT

Too bad her best moment of the debate was when she went and copied a line from John Edwards. Which the first poster in this thread pointed out.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Gary Schear, Bozeman Montana — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:34:36 GMT

Not a game changer and fortunately not a Party breaker.
Both candidates were careful not to damage our chances as a party to regain the White House. It is clear that the loser will ask...no, demand that their supporters get behind the nominee. I will do that. It is time for all of us to prepare for that. It is time to prepare to come together. Then it is time rise up and go to work for this country.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lora, Milton WV — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:36:20 GMT

What she said at the end was rated 70-75% approval from the Live People Meter; Obama's comments were rated 50%:
The question was about leadership and the candidates were asked to name a time of crisis in their life that tested them the most.

Obama first named having a single mom as a crisis; his life was rocky, he made mistakes, went off course, and "learning to take responsibility for--uh--my own actions"; I was a community organizer; need to bring people together; change washington.

Clinton said, "Everyone here knows I've lived through crisis, challenges in my life"; was grateful for the prayers and wishes of Americans all over; her crisis were nothing compared to "what I see in American lives all over"; "I am honored to be here with Barack Obama. (No matter the outcome) We will both be fine; We have the support of our families. I hope we can say the same for the American people."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

CButler; Miami, Florida — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:38:03 GMT

Interesting that her word choice was "xerox" --- the term only reinforced the perception that she is outdated and out of touch.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Carlos, SF, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:38:51 GMT

Hillary STOLE her closing comments from John Edwards. And after she talked about Obama plagiarizing she has the NERVE to do herself in an even worse way. She's a master politician with high connections. She could care less about the American people. I'm voting OBAMA for President.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

SJS, Kansas CIty, MO — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:39:02 GMT

Chuck:

For once--tough for you, since you are chief Obama cheerleader--give Clinton her due. The closing represented grace and strength, not surrender. It also displayed her tremendous empathy--not for herself, but for the country.

I'll repeat this line one last time. If we all live to be 100 years old, we will not accomplish the good work Hillary has in one day of her public life.

Whatever happens in Texas and Ohio, this country is better in every way because of Hillary and Bill Clinton.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

C,Northampton,PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:39:21 GMT

Hillary did a little speech borrowing herself from her husband and John Edwards on her "lovely closing" that everyone is talking about.

Obama 08!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

None of your business, SD, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:40:02 GMT

Wow, aren't you three about as arrogant as Obama is: to assume that you know exaclty how this debate will be judged. So glad that you know all of these things so that we poor stupid people don't actually have to think for ourselves. Why is it that MSNBC and all of its affiliates seem to be such blind followers of Obama? It's really getting tiresome and you are all losing any shred of credibility you ever had. You could at least try to have some semblance of impartiality. It seems like all the MSM people have their heads so far up Obama's butt they can see out his mouth.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

C Whitfield, Centreville, VA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:40:14 GMT

I think it was a good debate but she did not have a knock out punch. I think the best moment for Obama was when he said Clinton makes it sound like 20 million folks are delusional. I am glad he said that! She even gave a look like she knew he was right. The Clintons just don't understand, but prayerfully she will soon as he becomes the nominee. Go Obama!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

David, Boston — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:40:29 GMT

Barack is continuing to peak adding much more substance along with his skillful delivery.

Re: the experience difference.... It has been overplayed. Experience as first lady (or first husband) only counts so much (Is first lady Bush ready to run next?) And if experience at a failed endeavor such as healthcare reform is so valuable, it's too bad we can't sign George W. up for a third term as he has undoubtedly learned so much from the failures of his fist two terms.....

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Larry Romo, San Antonio, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:40:30 GMT

It is clearly evident that Hillary Clinton is the best qualified Commander-In-Chief ready on day one. She has clearly done more to enhance the quality of life for our military, veterans and family members. For example, the American Legion gave her the Unsung Hero Award for her dedication to working on veteran issues.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mark Figueroa, Hoboken, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:41:02 GMT

I've watched my share of presidential dabates and must reiterate what I'm sure many people lament: that these things often gloss over issues and are peppered with sound bites and cheap shots. Tonight's debate went into a bit more depth particularly on the health care issue (despite the moderators) but I think
the audience would benefit from greater substance. My suggestion would be to have a series of debates, each dealing with a specific topic agreed by people to be of paramount importance: the Iraq debate, the health care debate, the economy debate, etc. In this way we may get a more detailed understanding of their positions, their records and how they might implement their ideas.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Tim — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:42:42 GMT

Thank you for playing Hillary, time to go back and finish your hard work as a senator. Now on to the REAL business, How will Obama beat McCain? Who will he pick as VP to make up for his lack of military experience. I think Wes Clark would make a great VP to compliment Obama, would do you guys think?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

colene, New York, New York — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:43:14 GMT

"Barack Obama showed tonight why millions of Americans from all parties and regions have cast their vote for change – because they know that our problem is not a lack of good ideas, it’s that Washington is a place where good ideas go to die. Barack Obama is the one candidate who can change that by taking on the division, the point-scoring, and the lobbyists so we can finally provide struggling families with affordable health care and college, a middle-class tax cut, and an energy plan that creates millions of new green jobs."

Our country will be blessed to have President Barack Obama

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

BL, Cincinnati OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:43:26 GMT

Hillary Clinton Borrows Edwards Finishing Line

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo

From Urbanagora:

Did anyone notice Hillary totally plagiarized John Edward's closing line in the debate. In I think at least 2 debates at the very end Edward's said "After all of this is over we're all going to be fine, this is about making sure the American people are fine." Hillary basically just cribbed that and used it herself.

How dare she after the "change you can xerox" line.

I remember Edwards using this same bit more than once. No one in the media is picking this up yet. Her high point of the night was STOLEN.

Concession speech:

"Today, I am suspending my campaign for the Democratic nomination for the presidency. But I want to say this to everyone: with Elizabeth, with my family, with my friends, with all of you and all of your support, this son of a mill worker is going to be just fine. Our job now is to make certain that America will be fine." -John Edwards

November 15, 2007 debate:

"You know, before I came over here tonight, I was thinking, we're going to have this debate; when we finish, all of you are going to be on television saying, oh, who scored points, who won the debate. All of us are going to be fine. The question is, will America be fine?"
-John Edwards

October 30, 2007 debate:

"As a matter of fact, it's not about any of us. The truth is, when this election is over, I'm going to be fine. Senator Clinton is going to be fine. Senator Obama's going to be fine. Will America be fine? And will we ensure -- and I think this is the great moral test of our generation -- will we ensure that our children have a better life than we have had? That's the responsibility we have." - John Edwards

Oberman now has this, he just said he did this in December too. He hat tipped Politico, but we had it first at Urbanagora.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ken Collins/ Wagoner, Oklahoma — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:44:01 GMT

I think Hillary was flirting with plagiarism tonight!!
She was using a lot of John Edwards lines !!
Sen. Barack Obama Congratulations !!!!
You Sir are going to make a Great President.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Karen, Newtown, CT — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:44:50 GMT

I thought Campbell Brown did a poor job as moderator. The first third was OK--but why did it seem that every question of asked of Hillary first--which meant Obama had more time to compose an answer, and then he just basically agreed with what she said, but was able to add a few more things that he thought up while she responded first. The rest of the "debate" was anything but--this is where I think Campbell Brown failed to control it. Obama answered every question by simply repeating what he says in all his speeches, namely, "When I am president, I will do this, I will do that..." (Ya, and a chicken in every pot, too.) The moderator should have insisted that he state HOW he was going to accomplish this and that...Too bad we weren't given the opportunity to learn more about it--but I suppose, what difference does it make--he's on a roll and no one seems to care that he won't be able to deliver on most of the stuff he is promising and not because he doesn't want to do those things, but no one person, even the president, can do these things. For example, the president of the US does not decide how much money teachers are going to earn ("WHen I am president, teachers are going to be given raises"). The president has no power to raise the minimum wage ("When I am president, I will raise the minimum age every year"). The president can't give every college student $4000 or even $4.00 ("When I am president, I will give every college student $4000 a year").

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Felicia Woods — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:49:44 GMT

It's Obama Time!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Susan Renton, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:49:50 GMT

I kept finding myself drawn to Hillary everytime she she used the word "I" and "Me". Regardless of how much she has done or will do for this country if President, I will never vote for her.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Eric, Columbia MO — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:50:01 GMT

How ironic: in attacking Sen. Obama for using two lines in a speech that were not his own, Sen. Clinton's supposed punch-out line "change you can Xerox" line wasn't hers. Clearly, it was fed to her beforehand by someone in her camp -- utterly no different than Gov. Patrick feeding Sen. Obama a line a week ago. All rather Shakespearean -- full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Patrick — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:50:23 GMT

Obama won! He's unstoppable. Obama had more substance in his response.

HILLARY actually got BOOED for negative speaking, once again. How embarrassing is that? I really was trying to give Hillary a fair shake, but SHE BLEW IT. This is the old politics Americans want to get rid of. She's clearly a person of the past. Bye-Bye, Mrs Clinton and thanks for the ride...

Meanwhile, Obama is moving fast-forward into the future...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Silver Spring, MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:51:36 GMT

A truly great moment of politics. It was GREAT! I am proud of the DP. Although I think Barack won, they both were strong. At this point, in my book, they’re both winners, no matter what happens next…

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Diane, Tx. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:51:37 GMT

Her closing statement tonight was the real deal and she hit it out of the ballpark! This is what a President of the United States sounds like. Ann Richards and Barbara Jordan are looking down from heaven with big smiles on their faces tonight!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Democrat, Pittsburgh, PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:52:00 GMT

Hillary stole words from John Edwards in a previous debate, using them in her big closing comments....

http://youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo

Also, compare Hillary's closing remarks to these words from John Edwards again, when he announced the suspension of his campaign:

"But I want to say this to everyone: with Elizabeth, with my family, with my friends, with all of you and all of your support, this son of a millworker's gonna be just fine. Our job now is to make certain that America will be fine."

And, she talks about Obama lifting words from someone else.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

collette, farmington, nm — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:52:47 GMT

I think it just showed that Obama was Presidential and Hillary was Vice!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

C Dalton, Middleton MA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:54:03 GMT

Wow, Hillary's emotions betrayed her. I thought the part about the veterns was great, and then the bombshell last few sentenced will doom her run for presidency. "What a great man you are", ""What a great, great honor this has been" and the BIGGEST ONE OF ALL "Whatever happens, happens.."
That is concession talk. That is talk about ending a campaign. What a terrible, terrible sentence to uder in an emotional moment.
What "winner" says "Oh, well, what ever happens, happens.." I think the moment when from an ultimate high to devestating moment where she revealed her true feellings about her campaign right now.
She lost the nomination in about 3 sentences.
How can you go vote for her after she almost conceded on stage to him?
"Oh well, whatever happens, happens…"
Disaster.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jim AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:56:55 GMT

I hope the people of Texas and Ohio are not swayed by all of the Obama fanfare that has been generated by the press. Hillary is clearly the better candidate. She showed that again in tonight's debate. Obama needs a few more years in the senate. He does not fully grasp the specific details on most issues. I do like Obama. I just think Hillary is better prepared by her life experiences for the trials and tribulations that come with being president.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Carthage — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:57:29 GMT

Glad that this will be over, soon, and glad that Sen. Clinton might, after all, go down on a high note, and not screeching and clawing at the convention. This is just a hope, at this moment, but one backed up by the numbers. HRC for senate leader, and BO for president!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

BRockNYLA, New York, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:59:35 GMT

Wrong again, Todd. I guess you are in the right business after all.

The statement at the end reminds voters why she continues to fight. It reminds voters that despite what you in the media try to feed us she is stellar human being who has dedicated her life to America.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dee of VA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 04:59:42 GMT

Obama's been beat up for a week over Clinton's plagiarism allegations, but she's guilty of worse: HYPOCRISY!

Bill Clinton 1992: "The hits that I took in this election are nothing compared to the hits the people of this state and this country have been taking for a long time."

Hillary Clinton Tonight: "You know, the hits I’ve taken in life are nothing compared to what goes on every single day in the lives of people across our country."

Edwards the December 13 debate:

"What's not at stake are any of us. All of us are going to be just fine no matter what happens in this election. But what's at stake is whether America is going to be fine."

Hillary Clinton Tonight:

"You know, whatever happens, we're going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we'll be able to say the same thing about the American people. And that's what this election should be about."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Pat Baker Pismo Beach, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:00:40 GMT

There are managers and there are leaders. I think that Hillary is a good manager and Barack is a good leader. What do we seek in a President?

I believe we need a leader. President Obama can appoint managers at will.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Faye — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:03:17 GMT

What debate did you people watch???? Hillary was wonderful. At the end we were crying - she got a standing ovation!!!! Obama lied!!!! Only copied lines twice? Get real. Go on you tube. The video goes on for 8 minutes with him copying everyones speeches. Media is so full of lies. I am embarrassed - my three daughters are so disgusted - 25, 17 & 15. They wonder what happened to being fair and honest. Went out the window with the Obamamites!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Cosmic, San Francisco — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:03:27 GMT

Clinton asked today, (not in the debate). Who you would want answering the phone in the White House at 3am? I know I would not want Monica Lewinsky answering the phone at 3am in the White House.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Stacy Richardson, Westlake Village, Calif. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:04:31 GMT

A true leader, with the common sense, compassion and the ability to see both sides, Hillary Clinton embodies all of these characteristics. A brillant woman with more knowledge and understanding than we have seen in our politicians in decades. The uphill battle that women have faced since the beginning of the century is apparent again. I only hope that the men and women of America will judge a person on their merit and their ability. If that is the case, Hillary Clinton will be our next President.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

P. Kossy, Silver Spring, MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:06:29 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Vanessa H, New York, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:08:33 GMT

Check out Hillary lifting language from huer husband:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ7Cs3QvT3U

AND EDWARDS:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo

SHE IS SUCH A HYPOCRITE.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

RON, NEW JERSEY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:08:51 GMT

WHAT DEBATE WERE YOU PEOPLE WATCHING????

HILLARY CLINTON WAS EXCELLENT!

THIS DEBATE WAS A TURNING POINT FOR ME --- HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kevin, NM — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:09:58 GMT

I think the debate proved that their policies are known to be very similar and it's no doubt they're still both historical candidates. The main difference:

Hillary is unlikable and Barack is very likeable. She looked and acted sooooo fake up there tonight, as always...and Obama looked like a president, as always -- that's just the way they are perceived. Perception is what matters. I've never met someone who liked Hillary anyway.

Vote Obama TX, OH, RI, VT and lets move on to the main event...defeat McCain!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dow Seattle Wa — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:10:57 GMT

Chris can you go to a real photographer and get a picture that doesn't make you look like you just passed gas?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Tommy, Merced, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:13:08 GMT

Who would have ever imagine such a complete collapse as the Clinton campaign has had. There were not very many people who thought she would not be the candidate for the Democrat Party back when she announced her candidacy. Obviously she thought everyone would bow down and worship her; after all she was Bill Clinton's wife. However, a breeze began to blow out of the Windy City and he spoke of a new era needed for the country and this new breath of fresh air captured the imagination of the voters and they rallied around this amazing man. The voters believe he is the man that will restore confidence and bring about a new day for all the people. Hilary's campaign did not figure on a strong contender and relaxed and did not prepare to secure the nomination. She relied on Bill (big mistake; he has always let her down), she chose her "best friends" to run her campaign (not a good idea, especially when they were mostly women), and when things started to go bad she cried and said, "I want to be President." The country does not want the old politics associated with the Clintons and the Bushes. They want to move forward with new personalities and new ideas. I do not think Clinton will win any more primaries. She's done. You can stick a fork in her. It is over. She will cry and blame everyone but herself. What a pity. I cannot remember a more complete collapse of a candidate than this. The Clintons are kings and queens of the political spin. It will be interesting how they spin her collapse. I am sure she will not take any of the responsibility for it. I think it is interesting that know one in the media or anyone else for that matter has brought up the fact that when she was a young lady living in Chicago she was the President of the Young Republicans. Interesting. It looks like that is the only presidency she will ever be able to claim.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sherry Glaeser, Albany, OR — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:14:04 GMT

Good Job both Sen. Obama and Clinton! I'm proud of you both. Please keep the issues in the forefront and keep discussing your plans. This poor country needs to be united, to work together and enjoy our freedoms. I'm so bloody tired of the partisanship, the ugly comments, the "I have values your side doesn't" attitude. As an EX-Repub. I urge you to bring our country together and get something positive done for the citizenry! Thank you.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Nicole, Pembroke Pines, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:15:44 GMT

Very well done on both sides, and for the first time I actually LIKED Hillary, but not enough to change my vote. I'd love to see them both on the ticket. Obama for President, Hillary his running mate.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

SD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:16:38 GMT

I don't know what debate you saw, but I saw Clinton as a smart, graceful, informed and passionate candidate. Obama stuttered and offered no new details about his plans. I guess without a teleprompter or his friends, he can't speak so well. The media has been less than honest about this contest from day one. You put up nothing but awkward photos of her, and model poses from him. You never go after him. It's not too much of a shock that you don't include any women in first read. This has gotten ridiculous. Do your job.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Gail, Dayton, OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:16:51 GMT

Tonights debate showcase two outstanding candidates. The clear commander of the day was Senator Obama. He demostrated that he has the command of the issues and has the ability to bring the country togethere and get us to dream again. I am proud that he will be our next President of the United States

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

ROCCO, LA CALIFORNIA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:17:11 GMT

blah blah blah like always he's the second coming and hillary is horrible.. were all sick of it and im not even a democrat.. she's gonna suprise all you haters in texas and the other primarys watch it's going to put all you haters to eat crow. LOL hahahahahahaha

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jenny Thom — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:17:40 GMT

Senator Clinton's closing lines were plagarizing John Edwards lines so it is not heartfelt. Again it was a ploy to gain sympathy votes. While Senator Clinton is pretending to be civil, a group of her wealthy friends formed a 527 to blanket the remaining primary states with ads in an attempt to destroy Senator Obama. This is more of the same "old" politics; Win at All Costs. This will alienate and repel young and new voters to the system.
We deserve better. We have suffered through this divisive and selfish politics for too long.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

john ward, victoria, tx. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:17:48 GMT

I am not sure anymore , Barack tells everyone what they want to here. Per Politics. He may make a good President but it will be hard for the USA to get use to President Obama as President of the United States. iT DOES'NT FIT. It's to close to Obama Bin Laden

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Opa2 — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:18:05 GMT

This thing is all over but the shouting. Obama will come,as usual, from 20 points back and win those two big states and get the nomination. He in turn will get clobbered by John McCain. Perhaps Clinton than can try again in 2012 but she will have to run a much better campaign than this one.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

kc — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:18:06 GMT

I think her last comments could hurt her in two ways: (1) she criticized Obama for "plagiarism" and then used John Edwards' talking points; (2) while some voters might feel sorry for her and decide to vote for her, I think just as many might feel like this was giving them permission to vote for Obama without feeling guilty. Essentially she said, "Vote for him if you want...I'll be OK and you don't have to worry about me." I was starting to feel really sorry for her but this comment may have deflected pity and cost her those sympathy votes.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Karen, NYC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:19:24 GMT

Great ending... too bad that wasn't hers. Let's thank Edwards for those words.... I wonder if he knew she was going to STEAL them from him tonight.....

Hillary, the woman with a Solution for other people words....

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Brian — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:21:11 GMT

I wonder how it feels to have the only game you got..(that is the game of get nasty and try to hurt the other guy into getting out of your way) backfire to a chorus of boos. only then to see your rival (with out much effort at all) reap the cheers and adoration you so desperately want for yourself... She needs to quit fishing for frivilous points of attack and find some real substance to talk about. she needed a knock out punch.. she didnt even fan him as she swang at him missing the mark terribley yet again. I have said and posted many times when in a serious debate she has to be nasty and attack because if she had to stand on the truth of her real contributions through legislation she would be out for the count.... After march 4 she will have to see and hopefully agree that the boos are resounding all over this land.. By By Billary...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Julie Heinrich, Radcliff, KY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:21:42 GMT

Both candidates made excellent points about their particular positions, plans and goals. I think that Sen. Clinton at times appeared a bit desperate to make people see that she was better qualified than Sen. Obama, while he went out of his way to acknowledge that while some specifics are different, they are really both very similar in the positions that they have. Clearly the choice is going to be made based on more than positions, it will be made based on who is best qualified to lead and I think Sen. Clinton's desperation speaks for itself, even she is beginning to see that Sen. Obama is the best person for the job! Go Barack Go!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rep0X — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:23:53 GMT

Grace under fire...she is seasoned, experienced, wise, and a pro...she knows the details, has a plan and has the courage to act in the face of all the pundits in this country. She is probably the only one who truly knows there is no Knight on Horseback and that the change we seek comes from inside and has always been with us. Go, Madame President.

Lynnsy Logue, Charlotte, NC (Sent Thursday, February 21, 2008 9:56 PM)
-----------------------------------------------------

This is pathetic Lynnsy!
Stealing Obama's talking points, and attributing them to Hillary... That's a new low!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Someone from China — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:24:45 GMT

In part because of your media and the so-called pundits like you, Chuck, you American democracy are doom.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

John, Morgan Hill, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:25:07 GMT

Obama had the easier task tonight and he did it very well. He didn't throw any first punches, but jabbed back hard when they were thrown. He handled the Commander in Chief question is true Presidential style.

Hillary needed to go for broke and change the game and she didn't do it. I hope she will remember to credit Edwards for her use of his remarks in her closing :).

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

J. Lee — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:26:34 GMT

Chuck Todd you are overt in your bias against Hillary just as the sexist comments of your staff. Are you simply a hardcore sexist or simply to concerned with your own ego to be able to see the truth?

Hillary carried the debate since Obama always followed her lead as if he cannot come up with any of his own ideas, but this we all know. Hillary ended on a powerful note and you cannot even accept that.

Nobody cares what you think and MSNBC ought to replace you.
Your a sexist jerk just like your staff with the exception of Dan A.
He is the only member of your staff with any class or balance in his reporting. You guys are as LOW as Fox. Does Rupert own your --- too? You also cut off Hillary the other night to go to Obama. Your bias toward Obama is OVERT! Bad Journalism.

J. Los Angeles

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Don R, Bradenton, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:27:28 GMT

It is interesting that Clinton would make a charge about plagiarism and Xeroxing, and then end the debate with a line originally spoken by her husband, as reported by the New York Times on November 4, 1992.

http://talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/179614.php

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Marbw — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:33:12 GMT

Clinton Tonight:

You know, whatever happens, we're going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we'll be able to say the same thing about the American people. And that's what this election should be about.

Edwards the December 13 debate:

?What's not at stake are any of us. All of us are going to be just fine no matter what happens in this election. But what's at stake is whether America is going to be fine.
---

By Josh Marshall

Bill Clinton, 92: "The hits that I took in this election are nothing compared to the hits the people of this state and this country have been taking for a long time."

Hillary Clinton, tonight: "You know, the hits I’ve taken in life are nothing compared to what goes on every single day in the lives of people across our country."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dee Neeze — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:34:39 GMT

watch out, Clintons always have tricks up their sleeves. Seeming beaten, bull just another ploy. Her manager sent email to MSNBC saying she will be the next president of the United States. D

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Melinda Whitt, Louisville, KY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:36:32 GMT

It seems to me that everyone is missing the "800 pound gorilla in the room" with Clinton's closing words, i.e. she VOTED for the war that resulted in the soldiers receiving their injuries. A sad situation indeed...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kevin, SF, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:37:08 GMT

Clinton did pretty well. She lost points with the xerox attacks, but she gained them back, plus some in the end. Looking and sounding good at debates is definitely her strong suit.

On the other hand, nothing that changes the game. Nothing they will write about beyond tomorrow. Obama did a very competent job and deflected and defused the attacks.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

David Yaws, Victoria, Tx — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:37:45 GMT

Both candidates did well . But Obama has the momentum but can we Americans get use the name President Obama
if he gets elected I and many others will always be reminded of 911 Obama Bin Laded I guess if he could'nt reach the White House by plane he would just get elected into it. WOW What a country.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

dpm, CA. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:38:14 GMT

T Terry I wholeheartedly agree with you. We are witnessing not only a turning point in the history of American politics, but we are also seeing a woman and an african-american competing for the highest office in our land. Other than the "Xerox" statement I thought Hillary did very well tonight. In some ways I don't solely blame her for making what was no doubt scripted by some of her staff writers. Yes, this is a new era of politics and I am grateful for not only witnessing this, but also having the opportunity to be a part of history in the making. By the way, one of the things that I noticed that Barrack and Bill Clinton have in common is that both of them are left handed. Hope that doesn't mean anything lol.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Tracy G Iowa — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:39:24 GMT

her best line was an edward's line-- that's just great!
Clinton Tonight:
"You know, whatever happens, we're going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we'll be able to say the same thing about the American people. And that's what this election should be about.?"

Edwards the December 13 debate:

"What's not at stake are any of us. All of us are going to be just fine no matter what happens in this election. But what's at stake is whether America is going to be fine.?"

Does this make Hil guilty of plagiarism?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Simone Santa Rosa Ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:40:50 GMT

Please at the next debate ask him the questions first. He needs to respond on his own!!!!!!! She obviously is much more experienced, poised, seasoned to be THE PRESIDENT, he will depend on too many other officials for guidance and who does that sound like BUSH..........I am proud to be AN AMERICAN ALWAYS

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Isaias, Boston, MA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:46:01 GMT

I thought Barack showed some substance behind his words. The booing during Hillary's "xerox" coment made it clare that people want change. Do people even use Xerox machines anymore? Perhaps "Xerox" is a medaphore for her politics.....outdate! Barack's ability to see clearly that the old ways of our foreign policies need to change could potentially heal our international image and our national conscience. He makes bring an overwelming feeling of well being to the tabe. I'd rather a nations success be judged on an overall feeling of well being as apposed to GDP of GNP. Go Barack! Lead us foward!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

tom,des moines,IA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:46:50 GMT

Obama look really scare in the first half of the debate,and he didn't really know much about economy at all.I think obama is a joke! What we need right now is someone who has the experience and know how to solve all of this complex problem that are facing ours nation.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Marcia, Gold Canyon, AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:47:27 GMT

Same biased crap from MSNBC...Clinton's closing remarks rocked the house! Of course, your comments deny that success as you have all along. You could learn a thing or two from such a class act as Hillary Clinton. If Obama's win this Primary, he rides in on the backs of all of us...including the Clintons, who have stayed through the ups and down of this Party for more years than Obama is old. And unlike the rest of you, we will support the Party's nominee even if it's Obama...just like we have for years, with teamwork, faith, courage and grace. We aren't 'fair weather' friends, Independants or Republican cross-over, party crashers, we've been here and will be here for a long time. Those are not attributes I have seen in any of Obama's supporter (although I have hope for you, yet) and certainly not from MSNBC (a 'news' broadcast that I have lost complete faith in).

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

anne meridien — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:47:36 GMT

I watched most of the debate. It seemed quite flat. They have campaigned too long and they have been over exposed. I thought Mrs. Clinton did a better job, and Senator Obama seemed a little bit off. They neutralized each other to the point that the Democrats look like a 3 year old reality TV show in re-runs.

The news on Senator Mc Cain was disturbing - true or not true. Very low blow. The media is controlled by big money. They used to say beware of the Military /Industrial complex. Today beware of the Media / Wall Street complex.

This election year is now slipping into boredom and the old dirty tactics.

I voted for Bush, but now I am feeling sympathetic for Kerry since I can now see how the political machines and press destroyed him.

Here we go again.

Both parties are guilty.

What worries me is the fact that there is so much instability in the world and with the global economy. I have no idea who can possibly lead us or protect us in the coming years.

Could someone please step out of the shadows?

I can't believe how much Hillary spent on Pizzas and Dunkin Donuts. It's just disgusting. Do they really think that if they by an average American a cup of coffee or a clump of dough they can influence them?

This has to be the most shallow election of all times.

I think we are in a lot of trouble.

The only thing that can truly wake up the average American is one or two or three of the following events:

Economic collspse
Terrorist attack
Major national disaster

Until we get slapped in the face, we will all act like poor Britney Spears until we hit bottom.

Take a deep breath............you'll need it.

We are on a collison course much greater than that satellite they shot out of the sky yesterday!

Get your affairs in order! Don't forget the baby pictures and food for your dog!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Serena, Westwood, KS — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:49:31 GMT

kristina b,

Thank God I'm not the only one who recognized John Edwards' words in Clinton's statement. Hope all voters were paying attention to that one.....and she accused Obama of plagiarism........shame, shame!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Xavier, East Boston — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:50:07 GMT

It's a done deal. President Obama has a nice ring to it.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

RobK, Seattle, Wash. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:50:07 GMT

Debates don't make Presidents. Look at Kerry/Bush 2004 debates.

Obama made no gaffes, didn't look at his watch, didn't try to intimidate, didn't go negative.

He was just fine, and thus, the big mo keeps going.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Janice, Eastern, NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:50:53 GMT

Hillary did a super job tonight! I watched the comments on CNN and MSNBC by flipping channels back and forth via remote. I found it interesting that CNN praised both candidates but MSNBC only downed Hillary with almost every comment! I am so disappointed in MSNBC. A few weeks ago I had decided to switch to CNN, but thought I would give MSNBC another try. Your network is so biased against Hillary until it is pathetic! You are just as bad as the NY Times trying to sabotage McCain this week. Your job is to report the news in yes, a "fair and balanced" manner. Not to shove your choice in our face at every given opportunity. It will be interesting to see how you are treating Obama after some of his carefully hidden flaws come to light - and eventually they will. I am sure that the rude Obamamaniacs are tired of reading my post, so I'll conclude with this. I have listened to the candidates and will continue to support Clinton. In North Carolina, there are several democrats like myself who are planning to cross party lines and vote McCain if Obama is the dems nominee. We will never support him. I am extremely disappointed in your coverage of this part of the election cycle and your network should be ashamed.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Veen75, Laguna, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:50:57 GMT

I'm SICK & TIRED listening to Senator Clinton saying that she has this 35 years of experience and READY ON DAY ONE.

Well SHE CAN'T EVEN TAKE CHARGE OF HER OWN CAMPAIGN NOW WITH all that experience, plus having been thru 2 presidential elections of former president Clinton, and this is all she got? If you can't even get your primary (no less) presidential election together NOW how do you expect to run a country? Talking about how Senator Obama is not ready, Obviously so far he's ready enough to go against the CLINTON MACHINE....

With all the good that comes from Senator Clinton experience also come a lot of bad ones. That 35 years of experience also give us the war in Iraq, No Child Left Behind, Bankcruptcy Law, NAFTA, not to mention secrecy conduct that would rival President Bush. You would've known what you know now Senator Clinton if you bothered to read the NIE report, obviously those 35 years experience didn't lead you to that judgment. I don't know what kind of your own research that you did, what kind of advice that you got, those 35 years of experiences still DIDN'T LEAD YOU TO THE CORRECT ANSWER.

AND LET'S TALK ABOUT THIS HEALTHCARE STUFF, with all HER EXPERIENCES, I watched when she came out with her healthcare plans after John Edwards & Barack Obama came out with theirs almost a year ago, HER PLANS were basically IDENTICAL WITH JOHN EDWARDS'. So, now she has the nerve to say Barack Obama plagiarized Patrick Devall, WELL SENATOR CLINTON PLAGIARIZED JOHN EDWARDS' HEALTHCARE PLAN. She just copied his plan and change his name to hers.

I mean is this the person who supposed to be the inevitable candidate? The person who has been collecting money from donors for more than 2 decades now, and THIS IS THE BEST CAMPAIGN & MESSAGE she can deliver FROM THOSE 35 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE?

I'M INEVITABLE, I'M EXPERIENCE, I'M READY ON DAY ONE,I'M SO READY I HAD TO COPY MY HEALTHCARE PLAN FROM JOHN EDWARDS, I'M SO READY I HAVE TO MAKE SURE QUESTIONS GIVEN TO ME BY THE PEOLE ARE PLANTED AND THOSE THAT AREN'T HAVE TO BE PRE SCREENED, I'M SO READY I HAVE TO KILL ANY ARTICLE FROM BEING PUBLISHED IN CASE IT SAYS SOMETHING BAD ABOUT ME, I'M SO READY THAT I DIDN'T THINK I NEED TO MAKE MY CASE TO PEOPLE IN SMALL STATES LIKE WASHINGTON, NEBRASKA, DELAWARE OR VIRGINIA, I'M SO READY THAT CAUCUSES AREN'T IMPORTANT SO I DON'T HAVE TO TAKE THEM SERIOUSLY, I'M SO READY THAT EVEN IF I LOOSE 11 ELECTIONS IN A ROW IT'S STILL VIABLE TO SAY THAT I'M THE MOST EXPERIENCED ONE AND READY ON DAY ONE AS COMMANDER IN CHIEF.

GIVE ME A BREAK!!!

And this is coming from somebody who's NOT even voting for her opponent.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

jerry sparks, Austin Tx. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:51:02 GMT

President Obama, I quess if you can't beat em join em.
I wonder if Bin Laden gets invited to the White House since h e will have kin folk their If Obama gets elected.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Gary, Indianapolis, IN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:51:41 GMT

Pretty good job for Hillary tonight! Sure seemed to me Obama was parroting Clinton for the first hour. She'd say something and he would just basically repeat it. That went on and on. Where is Obama's substance? She speaks clearly about her agenda and he kinda generalizes. This Obama guy is just not ready in my opinion. Hillary is the smart choice to make on this one!
Go Hillary Go! Never give up!!
Hillary Clinton...the next President of the United States!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

jade from middletown ohio — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:53:24 GMT

may be hillary need to ask those soldier for forgivness because she is the one of those gave george bush the autorisation of that dump war you did enough damage so far to this country enough fake moment and lies you stand up and say obama has no substance every day on your stump but you cannt cofront him on you argument in the debate you are a looser and your campain speaks for itself

goodnight for all of you
i am from ohio and i am cashing my vot for obama on march 4

obama 08

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

saraz — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:57:58 GMT

I checked it out. Hillary did steal a key paragraph in her closing comment from John Edwards.

Hillary, if your entire campaign consists of attacking your opponent for stealing the words of others, don't steal the words of others.

The one thing the voters can't accept is blatant hypocrisy.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dana, South Dakota — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:59:37 GMT

T Terry, Gary, TN, you me and Michelle Obama all are very proud to be americans. This has been special and hopeful. Thank you for thanking the canidates. All of the negative needs to jump on the Mc Cain train. We are on te Love Boat.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

T, St. Louis Park, MN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:00:14 GMT

It should be over; Hillary was confronted with the fact that the American public is choosing, choosing a new message, a new approach and a new model of politics. Possibly realizing the futility of her campaign repeatedly debasing O'Bama's candidacy, with the continuing a theme of "fairytale" innuendo; simultaneously insulting millions of American voters with sloguns like "Get Real." I am glad she has made these strides tonight.

HOPEfully we can rally the party quickly and start to craft a message that can reach all of the Americans who haven't had a president representing their interests for the past seven years.

Yes We Can!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

W, — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:00:27 GMT

Kristina B,
If what you state is true==============,
Do you think that Hiliary would admit that she"borrowed" John Edwards words. What she "Borrowed" may be a play on sympathy. NO Tears this time, just let me tug at your heart so that you won't use your head and realize that Obama is the very best person to be president. Go Obama !!!!
We need your leadership and inspiration to get through these uncertain times ahead.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Tom — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:00:56 GMT

Hillary is a hypocrit. She accused Obama of plagiarism, and yet she ended her speech using both Bill Clinton and John Edward's speech. This is going to back fire on her if she continues on this silly accusation.

Obama has this thing wrapped up. To all of you Hillary fans, wake up...its OVER. Obama will be our next president.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

S Sims, Orlando, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:02:29 GMT

The main point is - Sen. Obama lacks world-wide experience, does not have a good voting record in the Senate, and is lacking in big business experience. Sen. Clinton has a proven track record, has a lot of contacts world-wide, and knows about world-wide issues which affect all of us. This country is so focused on "change" that they forget that the current President who had no experience, quickly took our country from having no debt to being billions in debt, lost the respect of the World, and has done everything for 'his good' and not that of this country. Our next President NEEDS to be one who has experience in tough situations, knows what needs to be done, and is not afraid to jump in on day one. Sen. Obama is a great speaker, but he lacks the experience necessary at this time to become President. A good debate, but this country needs to wake up and realize that we are in a mess and need an experienced individual, not one who is going to 'learn on the job'. Sen. Clinton needs to be that person.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ronald Brazier, Missouri City, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:02:29 GMT

Both candidates were worthy of praise. I saw it even for the most part, although I believe Barak Obama will win the primary and become our next president. Would love to have Clinton as VP.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Fernando Simon, Laredo, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:10:24 GMT

Hola. Mi nombre es Fernando. I don't speak English well but I try. I thinks that Hillary Clinton one the debate this night. She is clearly better than Obama. He look scared. Quiero que Hillary gane. Clinton has experence. Obama even admit that he used drogas. This is not good. The Latinos of Texas support her because we Latinos believe in America. We Latinos must be togethre and be with Hillary. Good times Hillary!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Greg, NH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:10:37 GMT

"She is probably the only one who truly knows there is no Knight on Horseback..."

And this would be absolutely true...in her mind and she has every right, judging by her former experience in the days of old, to reserve that thought. But, part of the purpose of having a four year term and allowing someone else to have the opportunity is to provide THAT person to exercise their skills to bring that "Kinght on Horseback" dream a little closer to reality....

What would be the sense of reading a book you already read 5 times? Go down a road you've traveled over and over again? Sometimes, the same old things are good but so is change; read a new book, try exploring new avenues.

Besides, there are a few Presidents in our history that has made such significant change they would have come pretty close to being the "Knight on Horseback." If you recall, one had a nickname... "Camelot"...And Camelot was at one point, the most noble and loyal Knight of the round table....

Unfortunately, Bill Clinton was no Camelot therefore, the reality that was demonstrated for Hillary (and the foundation of her "experience") did not include a "Knight on Horseback" but if Jackie O (with a different perspective of reality) was alive today, I am sure she would disagree...as many of us do. It IS possible AND a reality that a President can be capable of significant change and many great things...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

M, Walnut Creek — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:12:20 GMT

Barack is the obvious winner, the leader, the President, the Commander and Chief. With his strong momentum and his inspirational character there is no way to stop him.

We salute you Mr President!!

"Change We Can Believe In."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Donald Weed, Sammamish, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:13:47 GMT

No matter how many debates Obama wins, the press will always pronounce Hillary the winner. Obama's position on health care makes more sense than Hillary's, and his insistence on transparency is both important and scores debate points; his foreign policy stance is generational in its superiority to Senator Clinton's; and he turned her experience claim around neatly into the question of her poor judgments. The crowd was with him, and I was with him. So, your assessment is simply your opinion, and I do not share it. Unfortunately, you have the "bully pulpit", while all I've got is this stupid comment.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Juan Carlos, Las Vegas. NV — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:15:26 GMT

She is just brilliant. How long will we wait to have on stage another great woman.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

John Kerr, Plano, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:16:27 GMT

I thought the debate tonight was excellent. Hillary did a fantastic job. She was calm, cool, and articulate.

I don't mean to sound angry, but Obama seems like the leader of a cult sometimes. His supporters say meaningless jargon. There is no substance. They speak in generalities. It's like cheap propaganda. I should finish now. Just remember. Hillary has experience. She has solutions. And she will be ready on day one.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

honorable65, snat maria, ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:16:29 GMT

Just bring on Bill and his wagging finger---he'll let everyone know how stupid and wrong they are!!!!

NOT !!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Andy, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:16:32 GMT

I just don't get it. How can one say "Universal Health Care" equates to forcing families to buy health care? Should the purpose be more providing health care to all families, especially those who cannot afford it? Furthermore, if one refuses to buy Hillary's health care, they will penalized via harsh fees and potentially face garnished wages, in effect leaving families worse off than before. I believe this is unethical and downright wrong. Look at Massachusetts and the state's issues with its universal health care mandate. Many people are now excluded from the mandate because the implications of the mandate causes more harm than good. I am just so offended by her plan and the audacity of Hillary for even saying that leaving families worse off than before is a "solution" for achieving universal health care. You will not be able to put food of the table, pay your bills, support your family, and afford the many other very basic necessities of life, but at least you have health care. The focus needs to be on the cost of health care. It's entirely too expensive. Even more, many of us who have health care are just barely getting by because of the astronomical price of health care. That is why I support Obama and his health care over Hillary and her health care. He helps not only those who do not have health care, but also those who do have health care. He realizes the true problems we are facing and have a better approach at accomplishing them. Yes, he has a mandate that children are to be covered by their parents because children DO NOT have a choice but are confined to the actions of their parents. Thank you, Barack Obama, for bringing out this point out tonight and winning the debate. I support you 100%

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mario Gariby, Galveston Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:18:20 GMT

Hillary's closing was a knock out punch. If Obama can say it's silly season in politics about what Hillary says then it is OK for her to say it is change you can zerox about what Obama says.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ronald Brazier, Missouri City, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:27:10 GMT

Both candidates are worthy of praise. I viewed the debate as even, although I believe Obama will be our next president. I would love to have Clinton as VP.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ben, New Orleans, LA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:29:35 GMT

Come on, folks, you don't honestly believe that the "touching" moment at the end wasn't planned long before they walked out on the stage? She's trying to recapture the crying incident in NH without actually crying (she doesn't want to be perceived as weak) because it gave her a little boost. Don't think for a second that she isn't scratching and clawing for every last vote she can get. Someone who has wanted to be president since they were a child is not going to just say "you're an awesome person and deserve it more than me."

I also don't think Hillary realizes yet that in her pursuit to woo Obama's voters, pointing out her experience actually hurts her. Obama voters view her as being part of the existing, broken political machine that this country so badly needs to overcome to continue to be a viable country going forward.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Brian, Seattle, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:31:11 GMT

As I said in the previous thread, I think Obama performed better than you suggest Chuck.

If there was an event in this campaign where you can point to where Hillary's campaign was officially over, it was at the end of this debate. I think she knew it too. She failed to respond to all the attacks she has been doing over the week and all the criticisms of Obama from his record to his ability to be commander in chief. She failed to really make the case that her rhetoric was not just as empty as she suggested Obama was.

I think she'll give a good show for Texas and Ohio, which she'll probably lose both, then pack it in and end on a good note with dignity and respect for Obama and the party.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Marbw — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:31:29 GMT

Wyoming deadline to register: February 22

Voters in Wyoming have until this Friday, February 22 to register as Democrats in order to be eligible to participate in the upcoming Wyoming Democratic Caucuses. This includes registered Republicans and Independents who want to caucus for Barack Obama, as well as new voters.

Seventeen-year-olds who will be 18 by November 4, 2008 are eligible to participate in the Democratic Caucuses, but they must register by February 22.

Important Note for all registered Democrats:

If you did not vote in the 2006 general election, or if you have moved to a new address since last registering, you must re-register as a Democrat by February 22 in order to participate in the Wyoming Democratic Caucuses.

Voters can register to vote in the office of the county clerk or town clerk in the county where they live. Click here for a list of Wyoming County Clerk locations and contact information.

The Wyoming Democratic Caucuses are scheduled for March 8 across the state. Find your caucus location and time.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

aware — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:37:04 GMT

Hillary's closing remarks did generate a standing ovation! Did you miss that momentous moment?

If Barack manages to buy himself into the presidency with money/media and the picture he paints of himself, he will very likely be a one term president.

Hillary the HOPE of 08 and/or 2012

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

G. Wright, Irvine, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:38:05 GMT

It was like watching a good boxing match where both fighters fought so well that you didn't want either to lose. I am an Obama supporter--but Hillary won this one by a nose. It is just too little too late.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

kg, new york,ny — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:38:21 GMT

hey t terry - well said my friend! you know, I am knew to participating/blogging on the net - however - this political season has turned me into a political junkie. I often find myself asking ' were the hell have I been ie politics?! this stuff is great! '

I am recently married w/ child, house, bank note etc. and just became aware of how serious/real life is!aware of how real/serious life is, what is really important and that HEY! i REALLY better start paying attn! ( Hard to think that deep when your single, live at home, pay no bills and spend ur hard earned 'winnings' chasing skirts, gettin high and throwing back a few)

anyway, I have found all kinds of spin/misinformation/twisting of words/editing of tapes/outright lies etc...(and once caught, these pundits/talk radio hosts/bloggers just continue)on blogs/talk radio/cable - deliberate, intentional, hateful, divisive, racist, predujide and maybe worst of all - ignorance

but i was thinking most of us have never been this involved in the process at this level in all our lives - we are witnesses to history! WE THE PEOPLE finally feel empowered once again to retake our country from all these politicians who treat us like a bunch of sheep! who they remember to feed a bunch of S--t every four years or so!

I too, In the words of Michele Obama ' Am really proud of my country!, proud of the political process, proud we are moving beyondrace and gender, proud that this great country is slowing but deliberately moving to live up to its creed as layed out in that great document THE CONSTITUTION.

tonights winner? WE THE PEOPLE!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Arnie, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:38:49 GMT

Hillary plagiarized two people in her debate conclusion, John Edwards and Bill Clinton. Never trust a Clinton. See:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ7Cs3QvT3U

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rose Castanuela, Albuquerque, NM — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:39:07 GMT

Obama-Clinton Debate: I am a hispanic woman and an Obama supporter. As much as I would love to see a woman as president in my lifetime I do not agree that it should be Hilary Clinton. #1 Where is Clinton's Universal Health Plan from 1993-94. If she is a woman of action why does it not exist today? Was it stopped due to contributions from the healthcare industry? Or was in not politcally safe enough for her to pursue? Instead of bragging about a plan that never went through, she should be apoligizing and/or explaining why she dropped the ball. #2. It is a well known fact that she is a professional (experienced) politician which is exactly what America doesn't need. I don't want someone that knows how to play the political game I want someone that stops playing games.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

MK — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:39:13 GMT

It also appears that HRC lifted some material in her closing remarks tonight from a speech Bill gave during the 1992 campaign-- its on youtube.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

mary s laguna, ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:41:10 GMT

Clinton's closing comments were her desparate attempt to have a "tear" at the debates. It has worked every time. She will get a surge from it.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Robert, Alaska — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:41:40 GMT

Content Vapor.

Who can give away your money faster? National socialized health care, a colossal failure in canada.
From the people that brought you Amtrac & USPS.

Extolling a new variation on a ancient earth worship. Punish American companies and indirectly their employees with a new tax. Earth worship was
a ancient religion with the Egyptians.

Appeasement of dictators and terrorists. The Neville
Chamberline[The guy before Churchill] principal of foreign relations giving away half of Europe to another National Socialistic party. A awe inspiring
strategy by Obama & Clinton to talk to terrorists
and Dictators, that chop peoples heads off to advertise their diplomacy. Great plan by Dems, Strength thru weakness.

National Socialism doesn't work just ask Sweden.

I'am not for mccain either.

Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kevin, SF, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:47:05 GMT

Hillary got booed when she tried to reiterate her plagiarism charge in less eloquent terms. The reason for the boos was that Obama had essentially put the issue to rest - the whole crowd agreed with him.

She got booed worse than Scooby Doo in a haunted castle.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

TJK, Hunt Valley, MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:47:37 GMT

Hillary played it smart and classy. Except for the xerox line she presented honest arguments. She is so much better in person than her campaign spinners. After the low turns the campaigns had been taking it was very reassuring to hear this debate focus on things that mattered.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sean Bennett, San Diego, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:50:14 GMT

This was a shining moment in this long, unprecedented political primary. Both candidates have emerged as skilled orators and savvy campaigners. It is a welcome change from recent election seasons where our votes more often meant a choice "against" as opposed to "for"a particular candidate. My only hope, albeit faint, is that these two can find a way to forge an alliance down the road that will ensure that the best and brightest among the once inundated field will represent us for the foreseeable future. Kudos to both Hillary and Obama: keep passionately attacking the issues and not each other. And, just maybe both of you two historic candidates that change the political landscape in America forever!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

caligirl — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:51:40 GMT

i think it's time for hillary clinton to throw in the towel. it's getting painful to watch the slow demise of her candidacy--and barack needs to be free to get ready for the next phase (taking on the republican nominee!). if she weren't who she is (a clinton), this debate would have never happened, because barack obama would be declared the nominee! just imagine if the tables were turned, and it was barack who lost 11 contests in a row by huge huge margins. enough already!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sara Gerald, Petaluma, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:54:07 GMT

There's been a woman named Sonya posting in a CNN.com thread of Bill Schneiders that she was physically at the opening of the hospital that Clinton referred to, and that the incident occured differently, that Clinton's big line was an impossibility, according to Sonya who was there, and thus fabricated.

Perhaps someone should look into it. It would make some serious headline news.

It would of course also end Clinton's campaign, which seems to be crumbling now.

Tonights debate did little to help me out, I'm still undecided, but, I'm definately leaning toward Obama for his classiness when she tried the stupid plagiarism thing on him for the 900th time this week (which he's already explained to my satisfaction as many times).

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lonny A Ponte Vedra Beach FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:54:15 GMT

Clinton won this debate hands down. She is so clearly prepared, detailed, competent and grounded. Obama is eloquent but simplistic, Clinton is strong steady and ready.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Christopher Stanley, San Diego, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 06:57:41 GMT

I am 24, I hate politics, what I hate more is what the republicans have done to the Country I call home, I have spent months overseas and heard the terrible things other people say about us Americans. I want to be proud of my heritage, I want to know that we have leader that unites all of us for the better good of tomorrow. I have always liked the Clintons I was merely a kid when Mr. Clinton was in office and I remember the scandal that plagued the television that raised me, but what they left out was all the great things he did for this country, I am positive HRC would do a great job with all of her ties to special interest groups and her beloved relationship with Rupert Murdoch, however this is not about continuing the same game that has been played for the past fifty years, last time I checked this was about a nation in need of change, a nation that needs someone to restore the vision of USA as a major respected player in world politics, we need Obama to lead us to peace and out of the ring of Laughter.

I am positive someone will have a snide remark for my comment, all I can say there are million more kids just like me and I can guarantee we are tired of Washington taking away our civil liberties, you just wait… one day it will be my generation that runs this Country.

-Christopher

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

steve, columbus, ohio — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:02:15 GMT

You know I see a lot of hateful comments a lot and this comment board has been true to the debate.

Obama didn't win, but he didn't lose either. The crowd booed Clinton on her remark of Obama when she went for an attack, what does this mean?

It means Obama showed his substance and stumped Clinton.

I was on the line, but this debate made me push for Obama.

Obama 08;.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

REG in AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:02:54 GMT

First, Barrack really always seems far more sincere, where with Hillary it just seems to be all about her. Next, he impresses as being concerned to and able to pull people together, instead of polarizing, and therefore capable of getting things done. And when she says something it seems to be contrived for effect, for impact, while what he offers seems to have meaning and ring true. I’d have to say Barrack is far more impressive and easier to identify with. On the issues there simply isn’t a whole lot of difference but to win in November and for eight years following, Barrack Obama appears to be the logical choice. Step back and objectively view it, Hillary is just too divisive!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

REG in AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:03:17 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

LS, Sunnyvale, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:03:51 GMT

Too bad that special interests backing Obama has creeped up by winning caucus states by clever organization! we the people are the losers! Rich people like Oprah, Kennedy, Soros and past losers like Kerry have done right by themselves! they have a guy who will be grateful to them! of course, the many analysts who give glowing biased evaluations for this new guy on the block has been a lovely job too! The Democratic party has lost all of their real credible candidates and the best is the last to go - Clinton! Now, we know how the Republicans are going to win! At least Mccain is a far better choice than men like Bush! Go, McCain, Go...Many of us are rooting for you now to hold the sensible centrist position and keep the American flag flying!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

SIBBIEO PRUITT CHICAGO — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:04:27 GMT

I AM HAPPY TO SEE THAT WE HAVE WHITE PEOPLE THAT HAVE NEVER CARED ABOUT WHAT COLOR YOU WERE / THEY WANT THE BEST PERSON THAT THEY THINK CAN BRING THE COUNTRY TOGETHER / I LOVE MRS CLINTON AND HOPE I LIVE LONG ENOUGH TO SEE HER BECOME PRESIDENT. BUT THIS NOT HER TIME.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

REG in AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:04:59 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Apostle Kevin A. Johnson, Nashville, Tn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:08:21 GMT

The greatest change is not a political, social or physical one. You can change a government and still not change the sinful and perverse nature of a country. You might change the poverty scale of a nation by providing more jobs and tax-cuts, and still a people can be so spiritualy poor that crime would continue to increase.Should you change the way people look on the outside, it still would not change the ugliness of the human soul on the inside. I choose, by the Spirit of the one true God and in the name of Jesus Christ, that true change is from God alone and is experienced firstly in the Spirit of an individual and then in the soul (mind, emotions, and will). Only through accepting by Faith, the Lord Jesus Christ and His proven change ability; can one ever truly and fully change. So, vote for whomever you wish America, but only through accepting the reality of Jesus dying for you, can you be completely change.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lucy, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:11:30 GMT

She not only copied Edwards' words--she totally plagiarized Bill!! Watch the videos for yourself. Too bad, because they were good lines.
http://wonkette.com/359517/hillary-plagiarizes-john-edwards-bill-clinton

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Tyrone Seals — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:13:32 GMT

Senator Obama displayed a level of class 2nd to none. He was eloquent, respecful and forthright about his plan. I certainly appreciated his spirit of inclusivness for the American people. Go Senator O!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jean Bizimana, Wauwatosa Wisconsin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:14:37 GMT

My comment will be a question just to ask Mr President to be(Obama B) how did you figure out what most Americans want today! I mean; we are in 2008 for heavens sake.It is so understood today the unity of America,Oneness is Power! VIva Americans Viva Obama.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jean Bizimana, Wauwatosa Wisconsin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:15:35 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Greg,NH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:15:51 GMT

OOpps!

Camelot is the place not the King of, or Knight of. Lancelot was the noble knight. However, as I said earlier, the entire reference to "Camelot" goes back to JFK and the Kennedy story... There IS the possibility of great people that can do exceptional things...not necessarily a tale but true in the eyes of the beholder...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Pete, Albuquerque, NM — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:22:03 GMT

I am a 54 yr. old Teamster retiree, Under Clinton's universal healthcare plan I would have to pay for health insurance that is already being paid for under my retirement plan. My wife and my 19 year old son in college are under my plan will they have to pay as well? Obama wants to use our taxes to pay for his healthcare plan and says he will make demands from the healthcare industry, Clinton wants us, individually, to pay for her healthcare plan and says she will negotiate with the healthcare industry, big difference in wording. Clinton says she is against National Healthcare yet compares her healthcare plan to Social Security and Medicare which are National plans. Maybe I just don't understand are we talking Government funded HMO plans? How could Clinton compare her plan with that of Congress and/or Senate when they pay nothing for thier healthcare plans.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ceva, Raleigh NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:23:53 GMT

I'll be the first to say it since the media is too mesmerized with their latest "ba-rock star"...Obama pandered every chance he had when asked to asnwer specific questions. Pandering to the Texas crowd using Tx town and base names and linking it to the feel good phrases that get people feeling plenty positive. The sad reality is Obama's record shows he's voted the democratic party line 97% of the time and conveniently misses some tougher issue votes. How can he ever expect the fabled Kumbaya-moment to happen when he's been a party loyalist. How naive is the American public? Does anyone with a triple-digit IQ actually believe Obama's pretty picture that one day republicans and democrats will suddenly reach across the aisles, hold hands and walk peacefully into the sunset together? Give me a break. What a sad nation we will be if this inexperienced house senate politician has to play against the big boys and girls in DC. Obama tonight said he's been campaigning for 2 years for president. Sounds like his US senate experience went part-time halfway through his first term. So remind me again what he's accomplished exactly? ....hello? (crickets)

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dave, Dallas, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:28:09 GMT

Wave Bye Bye, Hill.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Daniel Perez — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:29:53 GMT

Clinton plagiarized that entire last response!

Ya know, after she blatantly lied about the "Xerox" incident (claiming the media had started the whole affair, even though it was her campaign director who'd spent an hour on a conference call convincing news stations to make it an issue) and tried to score more points with it again in Texas, I would appreciate it if the news papers/shows would stop hailing her answer to that final question as some kind of epic comeback. She completely stole that standing ovation, and she should be ashamed of both her thievery and her hypocrisy.

At first, I thought the way she twisted that question around and made it about the American people instead of herself. I thought it was really clever and original. I was ABOUT to respect her, even after all the negativity she'd pulled on Obama throughout her entire campaign. Watch for yourself how Clinton brought Silly Season into full-swing in those last 5 minutes of the debate:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ7Cs3QvT3U&eurl=http://wonkette.com/359517/hillary-plagiarizes-john-edwards-bill-clinton
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo&eurl=http://wonkette.com/359517/hillary-plagiarizes-john-edwards-bill-clinton

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Nate — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:33:58 GMT

this is what i am thinking. barack obama isnt the badboy he first was coming into the campaign i feel. it seems to me like he has given in somewhat to the kind of sycophantic syntax that marks the 'business as usual' he always rails on.

RIght after the debate, his campaign had issued a statement pointing out similarities to Clinton's closing statement and whoever else they claimed said it. Turned out that it wasnt 'word for word' but was substantively the same. Necessary? I don't know. It seems petty to me.

nothing really big, you know, he essentially did a good job (good enough against clinton this time around anwyway)and most of his points struck true, but still. There were at least a couple lines in there that were completely beneath him. I wish he would have stuck to his guns all the way. Go in there Mr. Smith you tell 'em. It could make all the difference.

But most people will just attribute this descent to his growing 'experience' as he becomes more and more well versed on how things work in a campaign of this magnitude. or they will say that it was his campaign strategists who made it happen, or whatever. but that shouldn't make a difference. barack said he would run on the premise (and the understanding) that everything would be clean.

I'm not blaming him because I want him to win. They say he's a dreamer. Maybe I am sometimes too, and I want him to enact the change he talks about, swift and clean. That could begin with rising above the usual political tricks and weapons politicians usually employ. It might be idealistic, but if anyone could pull it off, Barack could. I did not feel the magic tonight. What do you think?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

John, Austin, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:35:05 GMT

Obama shows very little speaking ability when he doesn't have a teleprompter. He stumbles, says "uh" about a billion times, goes far off topic when he doesn't have a solid answer, and reverts to lines from his stump speeches to fill in the gaps. He won't last against a seasoned veteran like McCain.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Shawn, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:35:55 GMT

Obama did not do as well as he did in California. He even looked lost in several times. I think Hillary did well, but she could be little more aggressive. Ending was beautiful and I believe that is a turning point.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Moodi — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:36:04 GMT

I think you are underestimating Obama's performance tonight; just because a Crocodile tears of her, that's not fair, I do not know why the media and/obama's camp do not want to promote this disgusting fact that she only cries when she's in trouble, what kind of leadership or disaster management it is? i don't know.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

NinaK — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:40:52 GMT

Hillary did "attack' Mr. Obama directly. Mr. Obama took the high road, I am so very proud of him! This is one of the many reasons why he will make an outstanding President of The United States of America!!

Fired up and ready to go, Obama 08! Yes WE can!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Abi — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:46:55 GMT

Hmmmm.... Hillary's closing comment was 'almost identical' to a prior Edwards' closing comment? Evidently, her words don’t have to be her own, only Obama cannot ‘xerox’.
I also don't buy the victim act. It makes my skin crawl when she tries to dramatically contrast and compare her good fortunes with others misfortunes in order to appear so concerned for their welfare. It is definitely a ploy, an exploitation, a means to a self-interested end - I can feel it in my gut.

Manipulation. Arrogance. Hypocrisy. Insincerity. I say not as my President.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Matt, Hollywood, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:53:19 GMT

It seems as though, for the first time in recent history, we have two well qualified, educated, and passionate candidates. There is no doubt in my mind that each of the Democratic Candidates care about the country’s future and have a better plan for that future than the current administration.
I do feel, however, that with the striking similarities on important policy issues that we are in need of a leader that inspires. Through no fault of her own, the Clinton/Bush name is the status quo of the past two decades. It is time for this country to move in a new direction and have a new name/face in the White House.
I admire both candidates for their hard work and energy. There is no doubt the constant travel and pressure that comes along with running a campaign has taken a toll on everyone involved. Yet, they have maintained a high level of integrity and focus that is a breath of fresh air compared to elections past! The Democratic nominee will be the next President of the United State of America.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

BT, Dubuque, IA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:56:27 GMT

Sorry, but Hillary did not seem defeated to me. She showed class and strength, and I wish her well. I feel she demonstrates more compassion towards this country. I especially liked her answer about Cuba.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Bob - Hobart, IN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 07:56:28 GMT

Hillary should have went for the jugular. She should have hammered him with Michelle Obama's remark of this being the first time that she is proud of this country. Only if her husband wins?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Robert — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:00:35 GMT

I have worked for a lot of people. Some could hardly get me to do my basic job. Some were able to get me to do my job and more happily. They just had away about them. This is an important skill that I think Obama has. I like Hillary but I know the republicans hate her; they despise her. If she's elected they will fight her to the grave on everything. They're two great candidates. It's not a lack of ideas it's the skill to bring extremely diverse and opposing groups together for a common purpose. Many presidents take office with a wealth of experience and a list accomplishments only to fail. Our next president will need judgment and charismatic leader ship.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

NinaK — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:04:48 GMT

Obama debated very well tonight. He brought the crowds in and fused substance in with his oratory skills. Hillary conceded towards the end as I read it.
Sally (Sent Thursday, February 21, 2008 9:55 PM)
------------------------------------------------
Sally, I am in agreement with you. When she stated, "I am honored, I am honored to be here (on this stage) with Barack Obama, I am absolutely honored..." I read this as her concession. Although she'll continue to campaign until March 4th, I believe it will be over for her. However, just now, the thought occurred to me maybe her "praise" has an alterior purpose----perhaps she is vying for his VP??
(I am sorry folks, but Hillary has been so fickle that it is hard for me to believe she is really sincere. So now, I have a debate within my ownself! :):) We shall see.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Pat Fondiller, Port Chester, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:15:28 GMT

I read this one as a win for Obama, and despite the class that Hillary Clinton showed in the end, he just appears more Presiential on all counts. When I hear Mrs. Clinton repeat that "ready on the first day" line over and over I find that it is simply not beleivable. I cringe every time I hear it because I get the impression that she doesn't even believe it. The Xerox line after her Rovian repetition of the plagiarism charges that the Clinton campaign has leveled against Obama, I believe was the final straw. Judging the strong reaction from the crowd, It is apparent that they're on to her and I feel that it will result in her losing Texas outright.

The thing is this, for all of us who have lived through the last two Presidential elections as Democrats, Mrs. Clinton's campaign tactics are a sickening reminder of what it is like to support a candidate who is constantly undermined by devious maneuvering and bald-faced lies. Mr Obama on the other hand seems to me to be trying very hard to bring the dialouge to a higher level and I think that this is effectively resonating with the voters.

I also think that if given the chance Barack Obama would enjoy the same success against John McCain.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

George Watson, Charlesburg, WV — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:15:49 GMT

Hillary won the debate with her final comment. It clearly laid out the choice in a very human, touching way. Hillary is about us, she'll fight for us and never forget us. Obama is all about himself.

She knocked it out of the park.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Joe Asante, Arlinton Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:19:52 GMT

I can't tell who the winner was because CNN stole it from the majority of the voters, we who cant afford the cable net works. Shame onto CNN, CBS ,ABC and NBC, I hope your vote does not count. Whatever happend to Gorvernment for the people by the people.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

DVON — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:23:43 GMT

I like HRC - I think she is a good person BUT just not right for this Country at this time ... I think Obama will take the nomination - however - it ain't over till it's over - so all Obama supporters vote, call, donate, and pray like there is no tomorrow!

GOBAMA!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

arthur d., los angeles, ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:46:50 GMT

Cannot for the life of me stand Obama's incessant stuttering and broken sentences. It's time to stop fawning to his supposed brilliant oratorical skills. Give me a break! The emperor has no clothes!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Stan McCauley, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 08:46:58 GMT

My own fact check shows that kristina b's comment (9:54pm) is correct: Clinton plagiarized Edwards in her closing comments.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Renee Houston Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:08:35 GMT

OBama was great show substance and he will make a great President. Hilliary's closing was very touching at the end I wonder was that from her heart or to appeal to the voters.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Russell ,chicago illinois — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:16:24 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

David, Dalls Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:18:05 GMT

America make history and choose Obama, He is the man of moment. Senator Clinton please fold up and join Obama as his VP and both of you can smile all the way to white house

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rob Hooper, Myrtle Beach,SC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:36:19 GMT

The democrats have two great candidates, however, Obama is the coolest and I think that's the real reason he is leading. I didn't think there was a winner in this debate. MSNBC always has better debates, that is the one I'm looking forward too!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

joe,henderson,nv — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:39:26 GMT

So with the potential so high for a black president, how come Mr. Obama never gets asked his opinion on the subject of "reparation's"....It's a fair enough question, when you consider the fact that John Conyers{d.Det}, chairman of the judiciary, has tried to get this out of committee several times in the past....that's right,america....don't think this is so far fetched!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Here In Britain, Dundee, Scotland — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 09:54:37 GMT

Having watched a recording of the debate I'd say Hillary won on points but did not score a knock-out blow.

It was interesting to note that she did not go for the cheap, easy shot that the debate's moderators were giving her. Perhaps she is learning that in some campaigns being negative does not always work. The Republicans can get away with it while she cannot - it's a sad fact of life for her - that combined with the media's pathetic analysis of Obama has meant that he has not really been challenged on either his character or his policies.

Unless there is a major scandal affecting Obama, I can't see Clinton winning the nomination. Even if she takes Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania by 10%+ margins she would, because of the skewed demographics, not gain much on Obama.

Obama looks strong now but that I believe is an illusion. His support base is built on quicksand - young voters are notoriously fickle; the black vote can only help him in certain states (and in fact be a vote loser in others - that's not being racist - it's just stating the reality of US politics); and he can't use the rich trendy white politically correct middle-class liberals to bully and intimidate in caucuses because there are not any in the Presidential election.

I honestly believe that when Obama feels the full force of the GOP attack his support will melt away. It won't just be about issues such as Rezko and his previously admitted cocaine habit. They will attack him for not being a patriot regards Iraq. They will attack him regards his stance on Cuba (bye, bye Florida then). They will attack his economic policy and say that he will hike taxes. Above all they will portray him as a socialist (ironically he isn't), as far left, raising the McCarthyist spectre of communism is the minds of voters.

And that's just the negatives he will have to deal with!!

He will also have to deal with many of the positives that McCain has. McCain the war hero. McCain's years of experience. McCain's ability to cross boundaries and work with Democrat and Republicans alike. That is not an easy target to topple.

I know some have said that McCain has two weaknesses - Iraq and his age. As I have already pointed out Iraq could be a double-edged sword for Obama - he can portray McCain as a warmonger but equally McCain can portray him as being unpatriotic. Moreover, Obama's stance on Iraq is weakened by his views on Pakistan - where he says he would consider US action there without the support of the Pakistan government. As for McCain's age - that too is double-edged sword - Obama may gain the votes of the youth but the reality is that it is older voters who decide elections because they vote in greater numbers than the under-30s. I am sure many would not appreciate an attack on the age of a candidate.

The only way Obama can win in November is to strengthen his support base. He needs to very quickly get the Latino voters and the Centrist democrats - the so-called Reagan Democrats behind him. That's why he needs to include not only the likes of Bill Richardson and John Edwards in his team but also Hillary Clinton herself. I know for some she may be a hate figure - I've never quite understood why some people have fallen hook, line and sinker for the GOP line regards her. Clinton (and Bill) would not only bring detail to Obama's policies - which really do need more meat put on them - she would also bring her (and Bill's) experience of dealing with the Republican attack machine.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

David O. Passaic, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:04:04 GMT

Cleary, both candidates are more than qualified. Hilary is smart and capable, but Obama percieves the world of politics differently with honest optimism capable of taking this country into new frontiers. Two heads are better than one, I'm sure they can accomplish extraordinary things together.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Swappy, Chicago — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:12:40 GMT

Is it just me or does Hillary give long answers that are so very boring? I haven't put my finger on it completely... she talks too fast and compresses too much information in her responses. I know things aren't going good when she sounds like a robot. And her references to a 1984 commercial "where's the beef" along with last nights Xerox comment. Don't her advisers realize that the 20 something crowd doesn't have a clue what the hell a Xerox is? No wonder she has lost the young vote.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mary Ann Frye — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:17:08 GMT

The only thing that turns me off with Hillary is she has cried and is too emotional. We don't need a commander in chief who is emotional but who is strong. There is no drama with Obama. I am ready for the change that this country needs.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

You-Cannot-Trick-Me in DE — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:18:23 GMT

She got crushed. She claims she has 35 years of experience. If she was that experience she would have made Obama look inexperience but she did not. She looks in total ah of Obama like a regular basketball player stopping in his tracks to admire the next move of the superstar and not focusing on her game. She kept trying to focus on health care because it was her only strong point but she made her plan look weak because she did not defend it when Obama talked about going after workers wages to pay for it. Her stance on Cuba was the same thing that has been going on for years. We will not talk unless we see change. I guess we won't be talking to Cuba if she is President because they are not going to talk to us with that stance. Obama is the more diplomatic. His approach is let’s talk. That’s the only way we can get Cuba to make changes. Stubbornness is what has this country heading in the wrong direction. On the economy Obama was more convincing about how he would pay for all the things he would do by stop wasting billions on a senseless war. He had more information about the math. Hillary was talking about a surplus from the 90s. Well we no longer have that surplus. On the war she should some strengths on foreign policy, but her vote on going to war dogs her judgment and Obama scored big on how he would go up against McCain. He looks like he will trump McCain. She looks like she will get kill by McCain. On immigration they both was weak. They did not want to get the hispananic population mad. This should have said this is America and if you want to live here you should learn English. Spanish or any other foreign language should be optional. Obama had a very good point we need to speed up the application process and kids who grew up here by no fault of their own but are talented smart and ambitious kids how graduate should be given that chance to be citizens. On The war she got kill. I can't see the troops coming home in 60 days if you don’t just flat out end the War. Obama show that he has better judgment and thinks before he makes major decisions. The out come Obama won. He was stronger, more presidential and looks like the leader that can unite the party and the country. He was strong in all the questions. Hillary was on Stronger on health not right just stronger in fighting for her plan.

Obama still gets my vote for president

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

YouthVote08 — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:36:08 GMT

I don't believe Hillary was able to cut into Obama's support tonight, so in that regard Hillary lost the debate. However she did win a more favroable oppion in my mind although I am still an Obama supporter I was happy to see Hillary tone down her rederic for the unity of the party. I think all of us Obama fan's need to thank Hillary for running a strong campain and realize that it was a hard thing for Mrs. Cliton to have a concelitory tone after pouring her hart into her campaing. Thank you Hillary for not draging the party through the mud.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ｒｏｄ．　Ｄｅ’ Tokyo, Japan — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:39:26 GMT

I thought this was interesting enough to submit it to you.Let's take a closer look at who's really qualified and or who's really　working for the good of all of us in the Senate. Obama or Clinton. Senator Clinton, who has served only one full term - 6yrs. - andanother year campaigning, has managed to author and pass into law 20 - twenty pieces oflegislation in her first six years. These bills can be found on the website of the Library of Congresswww.thomas.loc.gov, but to save you trouble, I'll post them here for you. > 1. Establish the Kate Mullany National Historic Site.> > 2. Support the goals and ideals of Better Hearing and Speech Month.> > 3. Recognize the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.> > 4. Name courthouse after Thurgood Marshall.> > 5. Name courthouse after James L. Watson.> > 6. Name post office after Jonn A. O'Shea.> > 7. Designate Aug. 7, 2003, as National Purple Heart Recognition Day.> > 8. Support the goals and ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition> Day.> > 9. Honor the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton on the> bicentennial of his death.> > 10. Congratulate the Syracuse Univ. Orange Men's Lacrosse Team on> winning the championship.> > 11. Congratulate the Le Moyne College Dolphins Men's Lacrosse Team on> winning the championship.> > 12. Establish the 225th Anniversary of the American Revolution> Commemorative Program.> > 13. Name post office after Sergeant Riayan A. Tejeda.> > 14. Honor Shirley Chisholm for her service to the nation and express> condolences on her death.> > 15. Honor John J. Downing, Brian Fahey, and Harry Ford, firefighters> who lost their lives on duty. Only five of Clinton 's bills are, more> substantive. > > 16. Extend period of unemployment assistance to victims of 9/11.> > 17. Pay for city projects in response to 9/11 > > 18. Assist landmine victims in other countries.> > 19. Assist family caregivers in accessing affordable respite care.> > 20. Designate part of the National Forest System in Puerto Rico asprotected in the wilderness preservation system. There you have it, the fact's straight from the Senate Record. Now, I would post those of Obama's, but the list is too substantive,so I'll mainly categorize. During the first - 8 - eight years of his elected service he sponsoredover 820 bills. He introduced > 233 regarding healthcare reform, > 125 on poverty and public assistance, > 112 crime fighting bills, > 97 economic bills, > 60 human rights and anti-discrimination bills, > 21 ethics reform bills,> > 15 gun control, > 6 veterans affairs and many others. His first year in the U.S. Senate, he authored 152 bills andco-sponsored another 427. These inculded **the Coburn-Obama Government Transparency Act of 2006 - became law, **The Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional WeaponsThreat ReductionAct, - became law, **The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, passed the Senate, **The 2007 Government Ethics Bill, - became law, **The Protection Against Excessive Executive Compensation Bill, Incommittee, and many more. In all, since entering the U.S. Senate, Senator Obama has written 890bills and co-sponsored another 1096. An impressive record, for someone who supposedly has no recordaccording to some who would prefer that this comparison not be made　public.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Micah Rose, Seattle, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:52:01 GMT

Hillary owned Obama on healthcare, but he whupped her on foreign policy, wordgate, and judgment.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

coery — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 10:55:54 GMT

Hillary, honey you know that I love you like a play cousin, but it is time for you to step aside. Do the right thing and just step aside. Let the party unite as one against jonh mccain so that we can move forward. You have done well but the time has come.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

DrToketee — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:04:36 GMT

Clinton's great ending was a direct "borrowing" of a speech made by her husband in 1992. Did anyone notice that the Obama campaign did not bother to lower themselves to the Clinton level of silliness by accusing her of plagiarism?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

mark — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:10:27 GMT

you dumb cant you see its all corperate thats controling the elections

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mike, Bradenton, Florida — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:18:20 GMT

The differences between Mr. Obama and Mrs. Clinton again seemed to be few and minor. Contrasted against the differences between Mr. Obama and Mr. McCain which are more pronounced, but not so much as they might be.

Mrs. Clinton (and Mr. McCain for that matter) has been in the lime light for a long time and does not inspire me with any hope that if elected she would make any significant changes to the way our country conducts itself. Last night certainly did not change my mind.

The appeal of Obama is that he seems fresh and inspirational with the promise of “hope” for correcting some major deficiencies in our country.

I am not so naïve to believe that Mr. Obama is anything but a politician, but certainly no more so than Mrs. Clinton (or Mr. McCain). In my opinion they all can be best summed up in a line from the movie “The Hunt For Red October”…

“Listen - I'm a politician which means I'm a cheat and a liar, and when I'm not kissing babies I'm stealing their lollipops.”
- Jeffrey Pelt (Richard Jordan)

So which lollipop stealer do we want?

I am compelled to join the ground swell that has coallesced around Mr. Obama. Not so much to vote for Obama, as to vote to do better as a country. Don't tell the GOP they will revoke my voter card :o)

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dan Lampinski, Pawtucket, RI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:21:45 GMT

Hillary is toast....and she knows it.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lisa, Murfreesboro, TN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:25:17 GMT

The person who gave Hillary the "Xerox" line is the one who should have been fired from her campaign. Unfortunately....it was probably Bill.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Marcus, Chicago — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:29:15 GMT

The response to Clinton at the end of the evening was in response to what sure as hell felt like the setup to a concession declaration; it was her Special Lifetime Achievement response as she starts shuffling toward the wings. I was not even looking at the screen when she got to the "whatever happens, I'll be alright" and on hearing it, thought "Oh - she's acknowledging that this isn't going to be her year."

I'm sure there were millions of others with the same thought.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ivone Kader, Oxnard, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:35:06 GMT

I think that the difference between the two candidates became very clear in this debate. First, Senator Obama exposed very effectively that even though Senator Clinton shares similar values with him, she does not have the skills to implement difficult policies. It is not enough to share similar values, but a true leader needs to have good judgement to be able to make the best decisions and a leader also needs to bring people together to be able to implement difficult policies. Senator Clinton has demonstrated that she cannot bring people together. I am a woman that have been waiting to vote for a woman president, but senator Clinton does not have what it takes to do it. A leader has to stand herself with a vision that other people want to follow. Senator Clinton does not possess the unique qualities of the women that truly inspired nations and became great leaders. The way she is running her campaign is a good example of that. How can she run this country with all its complexities when she cannot even run efficiently her own campaign? What message is sending to the people the person that wants to become president and is out of tune with the majority of the voters? What can be said of a nation that votes for its commander in chief a person that is able to shed tears in difficult moments but is not able to get things done?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

looky — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:43:44 GMT

Good job for both, clinton and obama. But, it seems that we needed Clinton to step in the office to help with the mess republicans have unleash on us all...U.S need no president now, it needs a mother to spank all of the bad guys buttocks with a 2x4...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mike S. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:43:48 GMT

Boooorrrring. So, how many Republicans will vote for Obama in Texas and Ohio, just to see Hillary flame out? I know of at least 1. And I do like Chuck Todds coverage of this primary. He is one of the few objective observers on TV.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rib, cape town, south africa — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:46:26 GMT

Hillary is good. Obama does have less experience.
But something in my gut rises up for Barack. I'd vote for him ten times over if i could.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

anne goldens bridge NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:47:46 GMT

She pops with brilliance. Her entire life has been dedicated to those who need her strength...why is there such animosity? I will watch Obama to see if over time his ability matches his good intentions...we already KNOW that hers does!!!
This has been a gender biased election, manipulated by the press...is nobody noticing?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

James Baltimore — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:53:04 GMT

This is a wrap. Hillary is just playing out the string. Barack was smooth, non confrontational, especially when he mentioned how universal healthcare in MA isn't working.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Nick, Boston,MA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:56:20 GMT

Remember, as well, that her 'touching' final comments were "borrowed" from Bill Clinton's 92 campaign!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H60y8mHMpmU

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

sam — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:58:21 GMT

Clinton's closing was lifted from John Edwards in a previous debate.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

DCVoter — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:01:01 GMT

Instead of listening to biased and filtered coverage about any of the leading candidate records, why not try looking at the actual details? http://demo.excelsis.com/clinton-obama-mccain-vote-comparison.html ... You can also find the work each has done for special interest groups and how they were rated by each at http://www.votesmart.org/election_president.php (They all have a record of working for special interests and earmarks which is their job. Obama seems to mislead us though.)Some specific details on which industries have donated to whom and how much as well as to each political party. (You will find Obama and Clinton not only have similar records and similar stances but both have about the same amount of funds from pharma and insurance and heavy filtering of lobby money via law firms.) Use http://www.opensecrets.org and see for yourself ... http://www.factcheck.org/ is also a good place to find out who lies, who embellishes, and who tells the truth and about what issue. You will find they are all similar but Clinton's camp appears to be more honest overall.The recent analysis by financial experts on Wall Street show Obama's plans are similar in goals as Clintons but not financially sound in terms of economic impact. I suspect this has much to do with his lack of political capital much like Carter. This means that with both candidates having pretty much the same goals with different approaches, if Obama gets the nom and gets elected, he will not likely succeed because Congress will likely not allow him to do the same thing to our country that Carter did (however well intended). Clinton on the other hand, has sound plans with detailed scrutiny by financial analysts at MIT and Wall Street as likely to succeed. No doubt that related to her experience and political capital. Obama needs to be VP so he can learn from her.A few hours of research independent of the MSM coverage will clear up everything for most of us! Clinton/Obama 08

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Emmanuel Winner, Rochester, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:12:47 GMT

Hillary needed to demonstrate why we needed extra debates - she needed to sieze the moment - she failed. Obama jsut needed to look like a professional presidential candidate, and he did.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

garry williams, covington, garry — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:14:45 GMT

Hope?

How many times Hillary use the word "Hope". Isn't hope just a fairy tale?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dem — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:16:39 GMT

I am a Clinton skeptic and strong Obama supporter, but I do want to say that every time I see a moment when Hillary lets down her guard and something personal comes through it makes me think that she must be much better than the people she surrounds herself with. I hope she finds her voice, sheds her overrated and overpaid team of consultants, and runs again in the future (that is if she goes out of this race as graciously as she closed the debate tonight, thank you Hillary).

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mike Hollywood Fl — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:17:25 GMT

Clinton comes off as so much more seasoned , prepared and intelligent than Obama.He's about 4 to 8 years away from being ready. What a plan, Hilary president and Obama Vice Pres and then when she is ready to step down he's ready to go.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mike, VA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:17:36 GMT

I watched the debate and gave Hillary a B+ and Obama a B-. I gave Hillary a B+ because she could have handled Obama's speech borrowing better. Other than that I thought she was a A. What really is amazing is how the pundits see it totally differently than viewers. My wife is an Obama supporter and she was worried all through the debate because as she put it, he looked indecisive and kept saying uhh, uhh before many of his sentence. He also followed Hillary on most of the questions and he looked to be following her by saying the same things and struggling to find something to add. I heard many pundits stating after the debate that Obama looked more Presidential. What? uhh uhh??? My wife and I were also keeping an eye on the response (positive/negative) chart on CNN during the debate. Although they both had spikes, when Hillary spoke her line stayed higher for longer periods of time, another reason why my wife was worried. I have a novel idea; let's have debates with no pundits following telling voters what they, the viewer, were to have supposed to have seen.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lankas,Nairobi,Kenya — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:19:36 GMT

This was wow!! A real modelling of democracy in a turbulent world. Africans are keenly following the nominations and particularly of the Democrats. The Texas debate was Obama's. Clintions closing remarks were a goodbye!! Obama has it bound.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Peter Mo — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:22:58 GMT

Is is possible she has underestimated Obama and could underestimate an opponent on the global stage. That is something that has concerned me.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

M.Grant, Houston TX. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:26:30 GMT

Hillary has only herself and her'advisors'to blame for a lacklustre display. Obama toyed with Hillary in the first half then apart from an emotional moment at the end she seemed resigned to second place. I am a genuine 'independent' but my final decision will be made between M'cain and Obama in Nov. unless someone else enters the final race. What a poor choice of Presidential candidates this great country has left us with to lead a seriously challenged World. This appears to be the real problem in this important political year.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Patch in Portland, Oregon — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:32:45 GMT

All in all, the first half was a snoozer, but it signaled what some had suspected may happen going in to tonight's debate: That Senator Clinton was going to ride out the March 4th primaries and then throw in the towel. She just needed a way to do so with dignity and grace.

By spending all week hammering away on the speaking others' words, then debating the importance of words and then actions, Hillary set-herself up with the perfect endgame: Self-victimization by saying one thing, then doing the other.

Did she copy Edwards? Yes, she did: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAYItnI-lPo

Excusable, certainly; but the finishing touch was to copy her husband as well: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJ7Cs3QvT3U

Once is forgivable, even forgettable. Twice is purposeful. This was not her way of being mean, or sore. This was a brilliant tactic to use after all the stories about her campaign funding being at a loss, hearing about her managers going at each others' throats over tactics and roles, unanswered questions about her taxes and money-management abilities. When added to her troubles by facing dropping poll numbers again and again and again (either against Obama in the next contests or against McCain in November) the choice was made before she hit the stage: Bow out with grace and regroup in a very Clinton-styled manner.

She's going to be Senate Majority Leader. Mark my words. Shes going to help choose a Vice President too, and it wont be her; but it will be someone she, Barack, Dr. Dean and all Dems. Trust.

Senator Clinton, thank you for healing this Party, for serving your State's and Nation's citizenry, and thank you for proving that you really are a class act... like we have always suspected/knew you to be.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jeff Spiegel, Corinth, Vermont — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:32:55 GMT

The candidates' responses to the question about Cuba typifies their leadership styles. Obama sets no preconditions. He's a mediator and a consensus builder. He'll address the issues of human rights during discussions with Cuba, rather than setting a precondition. Hillary is much like Bush. Meet my demands first, then we'll talk. That strategy hasn't worked in countless dealings with other nations and with the Kyoto accords. Rather, it alienates us from the rest of the world and portrays us as arrogant and dictatorial. Obama will mend fences and improve our relationships in the world. Hillary still has a lot to learn about conciliation and collaboration with those with whom she disagrees.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Cool Jam, Coolville, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:34:28 GMT

OK - Now the old lady can go home and clean the house! It's about all she is qualified for...

On the flip, Obama has nothin but drama! No substance there!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ron, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:37:19 GMT

I can't believe Hillary lifted her last speech's hook like from John Edwards! He's not exactly one of her campaign co-chairs... I doubt he offered it to it like Deval suggested his lines to Obama... could we check into that MSNBC?

"All of us will be fine", [Edwards] said of himself and his rivals: "What's at stake is whether America is going to be fine."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

John, MI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:37:35 GMT

Clinton says whatever she thinks will get her more votes, just speak your mind and let the people decide....that is what McCain did on the Republican side and he came from last to first in a month. If Clinton wins the nomination, rest assured McCain wins the General (which is a good thing even if Obama were the nominee)

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Victo Roman, Los Altos, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:39:47 GMT

It's obvious that Clinton is desperate and the inferior candidate. She relies on sound bites, not substance. I overwhelmingly favor Obama. He is far more dignified and has much more depth. Clinton should call it quits.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Barbara, Houston TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:40:16 GMT

I am still undecided!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kunle, Houston, Texax — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:40:43 GMT

The debate was in favor of Obama from start to finish. He maintained a presidential and real person approah to issues and actions to judgement. Continously uplifted Clinton while contrasting himself on issues. Clinton was looking for a hole in the board where she could stick her finger in, but found none, instead she bite her tongue when talking about plagarism.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ed Rothman — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:41:24 GMT

Hillary showed incredible intelligence and poise under intense negative pressure from the media, the right wing, and single-minded and often times fanatical Obama fans. I'd like to see Obama do the same.

Obama is still shaky after 18 debates. Everything he said I've heard before.

Hillary continues to surprise me on her understanding of events, some of which happened only yesterday.

Obama is good at oration but that only requires the ability to memorize lines. In a debate, you have to know your stuff. And borrowing lines from your stump speeches sounds hollow to those who follow current events.

I want to like Obama. But he's not connecting with me.

The right-wing despises the Clintons and wants to go up against anyone but a Clinton, and the left-wing is playing right into its hands.

I pray there's a dem in office in 2009, but I seriously doubt there will be.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

mm,ma — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:45:51 GMT

Anyone noticed that the only reason Obamas ideas are so similar to Clintons is because he copies them? Even in debates he copies her lines verbatim. Also, notice how he comes out with the same stump speech for introduction and whenever (which is most of the time) he doesn't have anything substantial to say he comes back to his stump about inspiration and bringing people together. I always was of the opinion that BS pays, and Obama is proving it. Also, I guess one can fool enough of the people enough of the time to become the president. Just look at Bush and now its Obama.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Bob Fenner — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:46:33 GMT

I take my hat off and I APPLAUD two Great Americans who touched the souls of all voters last night in one of the best primary debates ever staged.Both Senator Clinton and Senator Obama has the ability,skills,knowledge ,commitment and passion to lead our great country. However, only Senator Barack Obama will be able to SEND Senator McCain into early retirement In November.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Walt — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:47:48 GMT

They both did well. Clinton did well with her prepared speech at the beginning and at the end. Her effort to label Obama's comments to JFK's and MLK's words by adding "Just words!" as "plagiarism," which he used with Gov. Patrick's permission, did not score even though she made it appear it was worse than what we've been led to believe. And at the end, she went for the sympathy vote, which I realize is effective for her. But it is also disingenuous, just like Bush, to say you care so much for the soldiers coming back in wheelchairs, etc., when you made a poor decision and exercised poor judgement in sending them to war. What did she or Bush expect would happen?

Obama was stronger in between. He handled her effort to begin an attack as part of the "silly season,"--a great line for that' what it is. And he handled her effort to label him as lacking substance with some good responses about the many endorsements he has received from newspapers. Plus, his response to her charge he is not substantive stopped her in her tracks. How can she ignore his endorsements by the newspapers plus his state victories and votes he has received more of. Are these folks really "delusional?" I don't think so.

Also, he took the high ground. He has never gone to opening the Clinton's closet. Nor has he pounded on them for sealing their records until 2012, or not revealing the contributors to Bill's library, nor even being more transparent about their income tax returns. And I'm glad he hasn't. The old style politics is over.

He looked very confident and presidential in a forum that is not his strongest but which is her strongest. Moreover, she never delivered a knockout blow nor did he create a gaffe.

Of course, we'll see what happens this week. While she surprised me that she didn't go to the "tough" Hillary last night, but rather to the "soft" Hillary, she will be back on the trail this weeka gain, I'm sure, using the knife and engaging in negative campaigning. She is desparate. And the Clintons generally relate to the negatives and to acting as victims when they are in trouble.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rich, Paramus, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:49:30 GMT

Was I the only one who would've paid money to see Obama reach over and give Hillary the back of his hand; wiping that arrogant smirk off her face? Tell me she didn't lift that from the Bush/Rove playbook.

You're dead in the water, Hill; Obama's the man!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

stunned GA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:53:41 GMT

Hillary it is time to step aside. The divisive campaign you and Bill have run has seriously injured the Democratic Party. Your continuation is counterproductive.

You are not America's choice. It is fairly obvious you might be able to amass the Superdelegates to scrape by...but then what? I can not fathom a scenario that puts you in the White House. There are no Superdelegates then to prostitute themselves.

You may have been barely electable early on, but Bill's campaign presence has eroded any chance. I know too many people who have never cast anything but Democratic ballots that will vote Republican (they call it an 'Anybody but Clinton vote) or abstain from voting entirely.

Bill breached the trust we Democrats gave, and now you keep referencing his time in the White House and abraiding the scar. You can not totally staunch the bleeding your bitter campaign has caused, but you could lessen the flow by stepping aside. You are beyond a graceful exodus, but go now before you have erased all of your pride.

Trust me, your expressed concern and hope for the American people at the close last night rang hollow compared to the feeling and passion John Edward showed in expressing the same words.

I hope the people of Texas, Ohio, Vermont and Rhode Island vote stongly enough to prevent you from stealing the nomination with Superdelegates. The Democratic Party's hopes rest with the voters in these states and the remaining primary states.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

amk — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:54:10 GMT

Why didn't you mention that the crowd booed hillary when she was rude and "low" and inserted her dig that his campaign is "change you can xerox"

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Audrey, Florida — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:55:51 GMT

Senator Obama may get the nomination, but as soon as he does the conservatives who right now have trouble backing John McCain, will come out in droves for McCain. Remember Bush the conservatives got him elected.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

miranda lopez, el paso, texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:57:13 GMT

Did it ever occur to any of you that Hillary Clinton's closing remark in the debate actually reflected something she truly felt? Despite the "politics of hope" all I've ever seen in this campaign is venom from the press towards Clinton, and hero worship from Obama supporters and cheerleading from most of the press. Once Obama gets into the general election campaign, Mr. Obama better prepare to "get real" because he'll be facing some tough stuff from the Republicans. He may be a uniter, but you could not ascertain this from many of his supporters who have blogged here over the course of the campaign.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kelly, VA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:58:33 GMT

I thought this was the best debate for Obama thus far. Clinton also did well but her line about the plagiarism made her seem petty and it was received as such by the audience. She may have bested him on a few points but they were minor overall. She did not administer the knock out punch she needed.

I will say her ending remarks were great and made me proud to be a Democrat. When we look back on this primary we will see that overall, the Democrats have managed to lift discourse in a way that is unprecedented in modern politics. I think her remarks signaled that she does not intend on taking down the party in a vain effort to obtain the nomination. It showed class and hats off to her for that.

Speaking of class, Obama has showed time and time again that he will not lower himself to the petty games we've come to expect in politics. This will serve him well in the general election. I think people are tired of the BS and want to hear honest answers to our problems and keep the focus on the issues.

Go Obama '08!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

moonboy, Lancaster, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:00:21 GMT

If Hillary wins will the Oval office be renamed to the "OVARY Office". For just that reason alone do not vote for her. What was Hillary's stance during the civil rights movement? She had a confederate flag

peace moonboy

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

betty uhrich, lebanon, pa. 17042 — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:02:21 GMT

On Hillary's comments about using another persons words, How stupid is she, it takes wisdom to know and recognize knowledge. We as teachers, parents, students, pass down informations, experience and knowledge, ( why do we go to school, church (word of God),repeated knowledge passed on, School, literture, history, science, theories, etc. other peoples gifts, work, talents, shared, to be built on, remember Ben Franklin, 9she probably doesn't too much virtue) I am so tired of me, me, me, me,me. Thats Who Hillary Clinton is.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sandra Rich — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:11:41 GMT

I vomited all night long.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ravine Force, Kissimmee, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:14:16 GMT

I thought she was rather disrespectful when she ignored the question posed by Ramos from Univision to try to score a point.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mary, Virginia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:14:17 GMT

Obama is a great motivational speaker and debater but, would that be enough for him to run this country? He uses his charm and his subtle ways to put Mrs. Clinton down and all along making the audience belive that he is the good guy. The audience seems to forget that he is a lawyer at nature and that he has being preparing and rehearsing for this role for many years.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Margaret — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:14:32 GMT

I'm glad the candidates let the president-picking media down by not drawing the blood so eagerly awaited by all 3 drooling networks. If tv 'journalists' would stick to the facts: who, what, where, when, how, perhaps voters would be forced to read voting records and candidate websites and not make the lazy choice of slavishly following their favorite rock start tv pundit.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Vern, Champaign Illinois — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:15:26 GMT

It was a great night for Hillary.
What Obama told us us exactly the same as George W Bush had said. He said that he would be the uniter not divider and that the Washington needs someone new.
Se what is happening in Washington! The inexperienced imcompetent Bush is destroying the country.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

John, Delaware OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:15:29 GMT

T Terry, Gray, TN (Sent Thursday, February 21, 2008 9:56 PM)

Thanks for your unifying words. You are absolutely spot on. It would be nice to see more magnanimity like this.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dan, Portland, OR — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:16:15 GMT

Hillary was good only in the final moments and to be honest I thought it was more or a less a concession. Almost as if she wants to go out on the high rode which is admirable because she will be called on again in 2008 if Obama stumbles or in 2012 to help the Democrats continue to stay in office.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Richard Harris, Hornell NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:21:43 GMT

I thought that overall Hillary came out on top - again as she has in all of the other debates save perhaps one. Obama did a good job but seemed ill at ease and his delivery was halting and uneven. Hillary was by far more in command of the issues and as usual her delivery exuded competence.

I did think that the "change that you can xerox" was too snarky and did not help her. I also agree that her finest moment was her closing moments. However, I did not see it as the acknowledgement of impending failure or capitulation that the talking heads did. I saw it as a clear appeal to John Edwards to toss her an endorsement lifeline.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

JD, Seattle, WA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:22:59 GMT

Democrats can be an odd bunch at times, and they can certainly have the ability to chase windmills, but sooner or later reality comes into focus, and occasionally all of them focus clearly on winning, if only because they understand the cost of losing . . .

Whether the Democrats will regain their focus in this presidential election so far is not proven, but I suggest it continues clearly to be on the table . . .

The fact of the matter is that Obama cannot prevail against a Republican candidate in a two-party election, with this being all the more the case if a third-party candidate appears . . .

Another fact is that Clinton will win against a Republican candidate, with this being all the more easy should a third-party candidate appear . . .

It might take a few days for the "game-changer" to become viral, but it is there:

"Change you can Xerox"

It is more profound than "Willie Horton" and the photo opportunity where George Dukakis wearing a huge military helmet was shown popping out of a tank like a surreal and quite idiotic Jack-in-a-box . . .

Clinton has profoundly good common sense, and at a time when more Americans are losing their jobs, their homes, their health insurance, and their savings, there is much to be said for connecting the dots with respect to bridges, dams, levees, and highways falling apart in disrepair . . .

It does not require an advanced degree in rocket science to understand that fixing bridges, dams, levees, and highways maps to real jobs, great opportunities, and a stellar economy, and this is yet another "game-changer" that Clinton not only put on the table but also owns . . .

At one time or another, everyone has a dream, but in the grand scheme of everything, when Obama says that he has a dream and pretends it is an original idea, common folk see through it and recognize it for what it really--CHANGE YOU CAN XEROX, which in reality maps to meaningless words backed by nothing or, simply stated, just a bunch of plagiarized platitudes designed to deceive fools . . .

Put another way, in this presidential election, the Republicans have only one fear: Hillary Rodham Clinton . . .

Clinton is their greatest fear, because she will win . . .

The sooner Democrats focus on reality and recognize this, the better, because it does no good over the long run for Democrats to add yet another of their names to the growing list of presidential candidates who lost presidential elections (Carter, Dukakis, Gore, Kerry, Mondale, and so forth and so on) . . .

The real goal is to win the White House . . .

Copying and pasting, mimicking comic books, and summarizing Cliff's Notes do not win the White house . . .

Thanks!

P.S. Another important set of facts to remember are (a) that the November election is done by secret ballot not by politically correct caucus and (b) that Clinton consistently wins when the voting is by secret ballot. In other words, when people vote privately without fear of being judged or intimidated by others, Clinton prevails. From yet another perspective, Bush prevailed over Gore simply by transforming the secret ballot in Florida into a judicial caucus. Winning a caucus is mostly a matter of crowd control, group psychology, and trickery, which is very different from winning the hearts, minds, and votes of the all the people on election day . . .

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

A Chandra, Piscataway, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:25:29 GMT

Obama is alot like GWBush... Bush promoted bringing "change" to the white house with ethics and conservatism blah blah blah during his first campaign.. he never provided specifics.. but we elected him becasue he was a positive, likable individual. Obama has the same traits, and most importantly hasnt declared what he wants to change to or provided a roadmap/details. He is a VERY good salesman but quite frankly thats not what we should be electing. No one knows what Obama stands for other than "change". and if I hear one more word about Obama being "against the war" from the start I am going to hurl. He didnt have a vote at the time!! what he was doing was pandering to his local constituents since they are the ones fihgting the war... There is NO way he KNEW Iraq didnt have WMD's (and if he had solid evidence and DIDNT present it.. thats borderline treason). Even the UN weapons inspector said that unless we had gone in there, we never woul dhave known if he had WMD.

I wish the pandering would stop. More importantly, I wish the public saw through the charade that is Barak Obama... he is a salesman (and a good one) but NOT a politician. He is an orator... NOT a leader...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ericka, Norolk, VA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:26:40 GMT

At first I thought the debate was going in Senator Clinton's favor, that was until she decided to add in that nasty dig about "wordgate". Did she not get the memo that the large majority of people want to discuss the issues that are relevent to them? Thoses remarks made her look petty and desperate. Not the look she should be going for when trying to revive a failing campaign. Senator Obama choose to simply ignore the mud slinging "bait" that she was trying to throw at him. Stick a fork in her she is done.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

American wannabee — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:27:19 GMT

How come no one in the world is pointing out this great leadership moment for America. People are quick to criticize when America stumble but when shining beacons of hope are raised, when she shows the world how government is done and how politics are practiced, no one speaks out. In this changing moment in history, is the world watching?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Cindy B., New Castle, PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:28:17 GMT

I have never been prouder to be a woman or see a woman act with more grace and total undeniable class as in the debate.
Hillary cannot do anything right in the media feeding frenzy. If she criticizes Obama, she is ridiculed. If she does NOT criticize this man, she is ridiculed. And the whole time this empassioned-caused woman speaks, Obama doodoes on his notepad and briefly looks up with condecension. She, on the other hand, smiles (and I don't know how she cannot want to rip his face off) and looks directly at him while he blunders and stumbles in his search for words. Then, in the morning, the media portrays his ELOQUENT answers. I just don't get it. It is discouraging and downright vexing. Speeches on his podium are eloquent and contrived, but the man just does not think on his feet and struggles for words in what I see.
It will be a great loss to lose this prepared and able woman, but it seems that inevitability is overcoming everyone with something I fail to see in this man who seems to have roots everywhere. For someone who comes from so many places, he certainly has developed a resolve to start at the top.
Just once, I would have loved to have heard Hillary say that during Obama's only legislative experience position in the Senate, he has spent two of the first three years campaigning for the highest office of this land. In what scenario does the bright new guy become the CEO of the company?
It just doesn't make sense. It just doesn't make sense.
If Texas and Ohio do not come thru for Hillary, I am voting for John McCain, and I am sure he will tear this wannabe apart over the next months.
I can only hope so.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Diane, Livonia, Mi — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:30:30 GMT

Sorry, I can't help believe that Hillary's closing comments were a polical ploy to draw sympathy once again (poor me) from the constituents. When Billy Bob is out there stating that if she wins Texas and Ohio she will be the nominee, and they have formed a group of individuals to donate "super money", it is clear she is not going away, although she should. I do not trust the Clintons at all because they will stop at nothing. Obama had a great night and once again proved that he is the candidate of choice. People need to realize that Obama presents a totally new way of governing that will bring all Americans together for the common good. It cannot be compared to the current political climate in Washington. I applaud Sen. Obama, our next President!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Terry Herber, Chicago, IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:30:49 GMT

After watching the debate, I think it is obvious that Clinton would sustain or increase the current polarization in Washington that results in gridlock, finger pointing and inactivity... the same old way of working. It is clear that Obama has the capability to unite a diverse collition that will be can drive legislation through. This is the change in Washington that we are all longing for! Both Obama and McCain have this unique ability. It will be an interesting race to the finish.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

N K Brown, Albany, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:30:53 GMT

To all of you folks out there that will vote for Obama, my question is why ? What has he done? If your answer is that is he is inspiring, he inspires us to do what exactly.......The last time I checked the people across the aisle do not care about being inspired, they care about politics, they care about tax cuts for the rich, protecting their business cronies and calling anyone who would question their judgement on foreign affairs unpatriotic. They are licking their chops because if they do not beat him in the general election they will render him a non-entity as President because as President you need to do better than give a good speech. I am a life long Democrat who will never vote for Obama. Just because a person can give a good speech doesn't make him qualified to be President. Look at his record, if you can find one that is, because apparently he likes to vote 'Present' alot. The man has never cast a controversial vote in his life.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

greg from wisconsin — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:31:48 GMT

When you wait all night to use a punch-line you rehearsed (the Xerox line) and the response from the audience is boos. You should pack it in. The debate was at best a draw and that was with a not at 100% Barack with his cold.Hillary did nothing to give her chance a shot in the arm.IT COULD BE OVER WITH TEXAS

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lindy Dougherty — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:34:28 GMT

Contrary to cable media coverage, it seems the races have been won with local campaigning and coverage, not debate performance. I think Hillary has done better than Barack overall in most of the debates, but Barack's message has nothing to do with debates. It's about spirit!
If Hillary wants to convince voters she'll bring real change, why doesn't she, as a sitting senator, introduce legislation right now that she's touting will solve the nation's economic problems - like a moratorium on foreclosures?
The fresh positive campaigning is great (stop the silly negative distortions Hillary), but real action might tip the balance.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

K. H., Fairfield, Connecticut — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:34:45 GMT

Senator Clinton is the most qualified person for the job - the hardest job this country has. What is unfortunate is that so many people have bought into the 'sound bite' mentality of Change - without realizing that it has always been the more experienced politicians who have been able to implement the most change. Washington is, and always will be, about relationships - and Senator Clinton knows how to work the system. We may all detest the system, but it is that knowledge that makes a senator and a President effective. Obama doesn't have that depth of experience nor that large a network of supporters - where it counts - in D.C. working circles. Forget the slogans; vote for the candidate who has proved they can succeed and can get the job done.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sam, Harlingen, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:35:39 GMT

Why is no one pickin' up on the fact that when debating, Obama stutters to the start then gets going. It's not very presidential. I've heard all the pundints saying that he looked presidential, I didn't see it at all!! I am resolved to thinkin' that he will win the nomination, but there is no way another man who has not served in the military beat a decorated war hero. Just won't happen. There is still a slight chance Hillary can pull this off, it's a long shot, but wait till March 4. At this point, if she does loose, the only guarantee we Dems can take the White House back is Obama/Clinton ticket. Can Obama come down form his errogance for it though?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

tom tyskiewicz, forest hills, pa — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:35:50 GMT

GO OBAMA! CLINTON NEEDS TO RETURN TO THE SENATE WITH HOPES OF BECOMING MAJORITY LEADER. WE MUST END DYNASTIC POLITICS. MCCAIN IS THE LEAST BITTER PILL FOR THE G.O.P. TO SWALLOW, HOPING THEY WON'T LOSE THE SENATE AND THEY CAN PREVENT CLOTURE. THIS IS THE CRUX OF THE ELECTON, OBAMA WILL WIN, THE REPUBLICANS HOPE TO PREVENT ANY MEANINGFUL REFORM BY THREATENING A FILIBUSTER. LIEBERMAN HAS BECOME THE G.O.P. SENATOR FROM ISRAEL, SO THE ROAD TO REFORM WILL BE DIFFICULT. WHAT I HOPE & PRAY FOR IS A NEW DEAL SWEEP FOR THE DEMOCRATS. THE ARISTOS HAVE DESTROYED THE AMERICAN ECONOMY AND CIVIL SOCIETY, SHREDDED THE CONSTITUTION AND OUR IMAGE ABROAD LEAVING US FRIENDLESS, BUT MORE IMPORTANT IS THE DEATH AND DESTRUCTION OF OUR HEROIC MEN AND WOMEN OF THE AMERICAN MILITARY, SENT ON A FOOL'S ERRAND BY A PETULANT POLITICO, WHOSE TENURE IN OFFICE, RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT HIS PARENTS CHILD-RAISING ABILITIES!!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mia, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:35:56 GMT

Best debate ever!!!

Watching Obama wipe the floor with Hillary as she fires petty cheap shots $0

Watching Hillary squirm as the reality sinks in - Obama has more common sense in his pinky finger that she has in her whole body - and he's finally not afraid to show it $0

Learning that the only decent point she made in the entire debate - the last 2 minutes - was NOT genuine or heartfelt, but actually a PLAGIARIZED PHRASE SHE STOLE FROM JOHN EDWARDS... PRICELESS!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sherry Bellamy Washington DC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:37:08 GMT

Democrats need a candidate who can lead us out of the problems Bush is leaving behind and who has the wisdom and experience to know how to do it. Senator Hillary Clinton is that candidate.
Senator Obama is too inexperienced to know how to handle the crises that we face. And there are too many ways in which McCain can attack Obama and for which he is simply not equipped to respond. For example, Obama has admitted that on at least 6 occasions he "pushed the wrong button" when voting on bills in Illinois. Can you just imagine McCain's punch line: "We cannot afford to have a young man in the Oval Office who does not know what button to push!'
Sen. Obama has voted "present" on dozens of bills in order to avoid taking positions on controversial matters. Without even commenting on the cowardice that such a cop-out exposes, can you imagine the Republican attack ads? "Senator McCain, unlike Barack Obama, has never been afraid to stand up for what he believes in and vote his conscience."
I know everyone wants to ignore Obama's use of drugs as a young man, but can you picture the very effective ads that the Republicans will run, especially in "red states" in order to show the contrast between the candidates? With pictures of McCain as a captured and wounded soldier, they will have a warm, strong male voice saying, "When John McCain was a young man, he was fighting for his country. What was Obama doing? He was, in his own words, "walking around in a haze."
I hope that our party understands the importance of picking the right candidate. We have an historic opportunity to re-capture the White House, the Senate and the House all at the same time. Let's not blow it by nominating an untested, inexperienced and flawed candidate such as Barack Obama.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Barbara M Campbell, Asheville, NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:38:00 GMT

I liked Obama's comment that Hillary has accused all of his supporters of being "delusional". While she has indicated that it's time for folks to "get real", he pointed out that he has received the endorsements of major newspapers across the country; has won the majority of the states, delegates, and popular vote. That's a whole lot of delusional people. Ditto for the "cult" branding of Obama supporters.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lisa, Lindenhurst, IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:40:41 GMT

This was Barack's best debate yet....Hillary tried to deliver her attack on his character and we all saw through it. He difused her attempt and she needed no help from him to look petty. His arguments had substance and no one can deny he has the ability to drawn you in and bring people together. This is his greatest strength and is exactly what this country needs at this time. She definitely conceded to him in the end...how can anyone read that any other way?!?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Greg B, Grapevine, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:41:17 GMT

Why do you refuse to look at Clinton's plagiarism of John Edwards December debate statement? As someone who was a supporter of Edwards for years, I was very moved by his statement in that deabte, and Hillary used his words almost word for word in her closing last night. Why do you refuse to look into this further?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Johnny at Work Buda, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:43:11 GMT

“And the implication is that the people who’ve been voting for me or are involved in my campaign are somehow delusional,” Obama said.

A guilty person needs no accuser.

People have been duped by the Dot Com bubble, Stock Market bubbles, and the Housing and Mortgage bubbles. Now we are being duped by a Shaman.

Like the Housing and Mortgage bubble, a lot of the people who are buying in are going to find out that they can't afford what they've been sold.

The problem for sane people, although we were not taken in by the housing hysteria, and did not destroy our credit and credibility, we are having this latest hysteria forced on us. And it will ruin more than our credit. It will ruin our country.

George Bush has been flushing this county’s resources down the toilet. Obamas answer is to flush it down a bigger toilet and unite more hands to push the lever.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Pam — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:43:49 GMT

I thought Clinton displayed grace under fire, too. And I thought she looked presidential when she was talking about Cuba (because I had tended to agree with Obama before on talking to anyone who wanted to talk). Instead of not talking out of belligerance like Bush, I felt like she was adding value to the office of the president by insisting that we see SOMETHING from them before sending our biggest asset and leader to talk to them. I liked what she said and I would be really happy to see her as president.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

ki houston — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:43:57 GMT

here here, thanks to both candidates , it does seem like clinton wont go down in flames , maybe she will keep the counntry in mind and do the right thing to unite the country .

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Vaughn, Buffalo, N.Y. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:45:24 GMT

It was an interesting debate; however, the condescending attitude that Sen. Obama exuded, as if this was of no great importance, did put me off. I still don't understand why so many in this country are mesmerized by him. Recent columns by Robert Samuelson and David Brooks, both impartial observers, highlight the great lack of substance that Sen. Obama has, to date, hidden behind fancy works and lofty ideals. Personally, I would rather have someone who will work hard for us, rather than someone who makes us feel good!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

ELK, MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:46:14 GMT

Barack has repeatedly defined the fact that this country is "not short of ideas". I can only imagine the quantum of brilliance stacked away in those lonely halls of Congressional storerooms. We have swarmed every option to develop "workable solutions for the US people"; but yet we fail.
Leadership we have not mastered especially over the last years. Today we are the owner of such a leader, to give will to the people, to envelop them into a deliberate tour of duty "at home". Rework the social fabric into a belonging of governance; Washington has kept itself too far from the patriotism we so value as a nation of proud people.
Today, we must take this opportunity. They are few and far between..Our country needs the "OBAMA" fragrance to re-establish the revitalized use of ideas and resources with greater national participation...."Silly season" must be beyond us.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Tom Stormonth — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:46:18 GMT

On CNN's blog last night I tried to leave a message about the similarities between Hillary's closing speech and John Edwards' closing lines made upon his withdrawal from candidacy, and they would not run it... in fact I know a lot more people noticed it and yet no reference on CNN's blog? Can you say "media bias" on the Clinton News Network??

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Marcus, Stockholm, Sweden — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:49:08 GMT

I am not one to bash the opposition but enough is enough! When you accuse someone of plagiarism and your so called defining moment is lifted from John Edward's speech, and others, something has to give!

Bill Clinton 1992: “The hits that I took in this election are nothing compared to the hits the people of this state and this country have been taking for a long time.”

Hillary Clinton Tonight: “You know, the hits I’ve taken in life are nothing compared to what goes on every single day in the lives of people across our country.”

Edwards the December 13 debate:

“What’s not at stake are any of us. All of us are going to be just fine no matter what happens in this election. But what’s at stake is whether America is going to be fine.”

Hillary Clinton Tonight:

“You know, whatever happens, we’re going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we’ll be able to say the same thing about the American people. And that’s what this election should be about.”

Please send this to anyone who needs to see as we cannot allow senator Clinton to claim even one vote from our man based on yet another phony New Hampshire type acting!

Check out link below.

Link

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dawn Espaza, El Paso TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:49:12 GMT

From having been a Hillary supporter to now backing Obama, it was good to see a positive (for the most part) exchange between the two. She has what it takes to run this country, unfortunately, this is just not her time. Americans don't trust their President anymore, and Barack is a man who seems capable of regaining the American people's trust again. We need that unity after 8 years of Bush.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Brenna C., Amherst, MA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:49:30 GMT

I urge everyone to go to digg.com and find the entry entitled "Daily Kos Diary: I refuse to buy into the Obama hype (now a supporter)." The author of this entry did her homework and went to the Library of Congress records to research the successes and accomplishments of both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. It will be obvious to all who go to the trouble of investigating their proven accomplishments that Barack Obama is one extraordinary human being who has indeed been very, very successful in both introducing and getting bills passed, all the while working with not only democrats, but republicans and independents too. If one wants to compare lists, his is about three times as long as Hillary Clinton's. He IS a uniter, and that, coupled with his brain power and dare I also say experience, will get this country off its knees and back on solid ground, internally and in the eyes of the world community. This political battle isn't about electing the first Black president or the first woman president. It's about our survival as a nation.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ed Myers — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:49:32 GMT

I'm still perplexed how the media can say a 30 second display of humanity by Hillary some how gives her campaign some great boost. She's cried twice and now expressed some emotion out of how many hundreds of hours she's been on TV? I think the media is creating a story.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Steve Dallas TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:49:52 GMT

If the democrats succumb to the osama binbama rhetoric and lose in the general election, then they deserve to lose. Barak Hussein's speeches are full of sound and fury and signify nothing!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ron — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:50:17 GMT

I am by no means a Clinton fan, but Barack Hussien Obama does not have the experience to be the US Prsident. If he wins, he will be tested by the world powers to see how he handles a crisis. One comment above stated, "He brought the crowds in and fused substance in with his oratory skills." All the smooth talking in the world will not help in a crisis, one needs to act, that will be a defining factor if he wins. If he can handle a crisis as well as he speaks then I will support him all the way, but he does not have a track record to look at.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Paul of Winston-Salem, NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:54:43 GMT

Overall, I though the "O" man won the debate; however, he dropped the ball on the last question and she picked it and ran with it.

I am not sure whether she copied it from Edwards. In fact, it really doesn't matter. But it did illustrate how her campaign failed. If she had taken that approach from the beginning, she would be on top by now. The evidence is very clear. Her Xerox comments made her look very small and hurt her. The ending was perfect.

The "O" man needs to use moments like he had last night to help voters connect to his softer side. He could said, in response to the question something like this

During the period of my life, when I was trying to live life to the fullest, I woke up one day and realized that this was no way to live. I think many of us have had this experience. So I sat down and reflected on the question: what do I want to do with the rest of my life? Today, as I step back, it is quite difference. I have a terrific wife, whom I love very much. I have two great kids who teach me something new everyday. I am on this grand stage speaking to Americans and debating issues with people I respect and admire. I am feel very blessed.

Sure, I have made mistakes along the way. Who hasn't? But since those days of youthful fun, I think I come to realize and understand what life is all about: 1) Family, faith and service,"

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Valarie Williams-Columbus, OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:55:29 GMT

There comes a time when we have to be real. Real with ourselves and real with one another. I for one am glad that Mrs. Clinton will not be the Democratic Nominee. She under-estimated Mr. Obama, she ran a less than acceptable campaign, she has not been real, and stooped to incredible low's in her tactics and failed to plan beyond Super Tuesday. I am a firm believer that God has a plan and purpose for all of us. We have to accpet that He allows certain things to happen and certain people to be used for greatness. This was, is and will forever be Barak Obama's charged purpose and plan. I am excited he has maintained his integrity, has stood as a leader, set a standard of excellence and learned through the process. Sure he has made mistakes, but he took those mistakes and turned them into victory (11 TIMES RUNNING!)

It is time for Mrs. Clinton to step down, step aside and step behind and Mr. Obama and support this party and this nation with grace, elegance and humbleness.

GOD BLESS AMERICA, GOD BLESS HER PEOPLE AND MAY GOD PROTECT AND STRENGTHEN THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THIS UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BARAK OBAMA!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dennis, Dubuque IA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:56:39 GMT

Both candidates did a good job last night. Barack did what he had to - stay away from anything damaging. Hillary came across as the boring, I am woman hear me roar! Oh did I plagiarise someone? She was talking out of both sides of her mouth on that issue. Attacking Barack by saying a presidential candidate should use his/her own words, when in fact she was quoting both Bill and Senator Edwards. She used almost the same wording that Senator Edwards used in the last debate of the 3. Kind of shows that Hillary is all about her and Bill's legacy. Barack showed the temperment, poise, and stability needed to be the next President of the United States he can and will unite us. Obama 08!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

D. C itti, Lubbock, TX — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:57:22 GMT

It is astounding that for a candidate who insists he he wants to change the nasty, hateful politics of late, that his supporters show such ugly sportsmanship by continue to attack Sen. Clinton.. I will never vote for Obama because the change he preaches about is NEVER going to happen. All we have to do is read these postings to know that his rhetoric is empty - Is followers are nasty, ugly, mean spirited people from what I can see here. This is not change, it is the same ol, same ol politics. Only now it wrappred in a pretty wrapper and Obama and his supporters can lie to themselves.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rob, Holly Springs, NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:59:46 GMT

Agreed that Hillary had no knockout punch. But I don't think she could have fared well no matter what. The problem is that the only topic she was really agressive on was healthcare, and while she may be more knowledgeable on the subject, I think Obama's points about the way you go about it is how it will get done. As he pointed out, she has good ideas, very much similar to his, but she chose the route of secret, backroom negotiations, where the general public has no idea of what's going on, and if what Obama says is true, even some memebers of Congress didn't know either. I felt Obama demonstrated much more command on the subject of Iraq and his abililty to be commander in chief on Day 1. The Xerox line from Hillary was silly. The irony being that most likely it was pre-rehearsed and I wouldn't at all be surprised if one of her staff members came up with that. I doubt that was a line she just thought up off the cuff.

And again, while Hillary may be more of a policy wonk, she just isn't inspiring enough and that is where Obama trumps her. Obama demonstrated his ability to work with even the most conservative Republicans, wheras I still feel that Hillary takes an us vs. them approach.
I guess if you are a super left leaning liberal, then Clinton is your choice, because you want someone who will put the smackdown on the Republicans (while at the same time causing more gridlock). But if you are a reasonable Democrat or indepenent, or even a left leaning Republican, Obama just offers more hope that government can actually change for the better.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lawrence, Georgia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:00:41 GMT

Hillary can talk about “change you can Xerox” but hopefully the news agencies will pick up on this clip:

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

You'll see her lines spoken by Bill Clinton years ago, and John Edwards just a few debates ago.

Aside from that, she uses the "Yes we can!" and "change" phrases and words effectively sometimes.

Plagiarism, I suppose it depends on what your definition of "is" is.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rick, NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:01:55 GMT

mcgovern...mondale...dukakis...gore...kerry...obama

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

carol peacock, wooster, ohio — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:02:15 GMT

I think most people are misjudging the debate for Hillary. She was wonderful, she showed her diplomacy, intelligence, class and stength of issues.
She did not need to go negative. She is only 60 delegates back, hardly enough to say she has lost. She will win Ohio, Tx and Pa plus the New England states. I thought she played her cards just right.As for the words Obama has stolen, that was an excellent point, he does it all the time, even her words, example"coming out of the shadow" she coined that. 'Universal" that also she coined. She made her point and now people will listen more carefully. It was interesting that she smiled when he used her words. Over the last several months I have listened to both deligently and believe me he does not have any of his own words.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kevin Montminy, Portland, Maine — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:02:33 GMT

Somebody please tell me what Mr. Obama has ever accomplished?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kate, Nashville TN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:02:50 GMT

"Grace under fire"? The Clintons are many many things, but dignified and graceful are not two of them.

Seeking power simply for power's sake is not a plan the American people will condone. It is (finally) over after Texas.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Felecia Cooper Wichita Ks, — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:03:33 GMT

I think its time for change both were great in the debate playing it safe. But the reailty of life is we must move forward in order to become a great NATION as one no matter of gender or race change is much needed. Go Barack Go.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

sue, mulberry, fl. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:03:33 GMT

I think she did GREAT. All Obama did was agree with Hillary as usual. She has done well running a campiagn against her opponent and the media. It is a sad time in our politics when the media picks one candidate and trashes the hell out of her. Obama supporters get ready because the tables will turn, I saw it last evening on Fox, starting to talk about how racist he really is. JUST A MATTER OF TIME,can't wait.Why are they not reporting on there blogs how many Hillary supporters will not be voting for Obama, they choose McCain.
Hillary or McCain

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Emily, Washington, DC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:04:00 GMT

I thought she did an amazing job. I really thought she brought it home with her ending and I do not think that she was giving a concession speech as some of the pundits have implied.

On the flip side, while I respect Senator Obama, I thought he was a bit off last night. He definitely had some good moments, but he just seemed a little bored to me.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

GSBrandt, Chicago, IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:06:49 GMT

We thought HIll was trying to work up a few tears at the end--and it is clear that she pulled most of her final passage from speeches originally delivered by Bubba and John Edwards. Everyone check their Xerox machines...

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Michiel South Beloit, Illinois — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:07:23 GMT

The media is slanted towards Senator Obama. That much was evident watching the debate last night. The moderator kept trying to cut Senator Clinton off and would then allow Senator Obama to speak anywhere from 1-3 minutes longer than she had done. Also, had Senator Clinton and Senator Obama gotten into a heated debate, the media would have ripped her apart. The news is speaking of nothing but Clinton getting boos when she critisized Obama over the plagiarism in his speeches! (Ask any college professor if plagiarism is a big deal!) If you had honestly listened, you would realize Obama did NOT answer many of the questions directly. Once again he is allowed to skate. If she attacks him, she is wrong, if she doesn't attack, she is weak. I would advise everyone to read the transcript of the debate. Reading it may give an insight listening does not offer.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kay B., Lake Charles, LA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:08:58 GMT

Clinton's answers sounded like well-rehearsed campaign speeches. Is she even able to come down from her self-built pedestal and talk to the "real" people? Barack Obama, on the other hand, speaks right to the heart of the people. He is poised, eloquent, and doesn't have to stoop to bashing the other candidate (or the current administration) in an attempt to build himself up. He has what it takes to bring the country together and I know that he can do it. Go get 'em, Barack!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

bill, okla — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:09:55 GMT

Senator Clinton knows she's lost the nomination. She was pretty classy last night; much more so than I expected. Senator Obama looked presidential and ready. Hillary would make a fine VP, but would she take it? Personally, I'd prefer Gov. Phil Bredesen of Tennessee or Senator Jim Webb of Virginia. I think Hillary will concede by 10 pm Mar. 4

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Adrian Lewis — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:10:06 GMT

I'm following Election 08 very closely from the UK, and frankly, I'm worried, not just for The USA, but for myself, my children and the world and this is why.
I'm sure Obama is a really good guy, honest, hard working and genuine, but you Americans need to ask yourself some questions before you decide to put him in The White House -:
If you needed open heart surgery, who would you choose, a top heart surgeon, or your local doctor? The Top Heart Surgeon of course, why? because the top heart surgeon has experience.
If you wanted some advice about investing $1,000.000 who would you go to for that advice? a financial expert, or a guy you met in a bar? of course you would choose the financial expert.
And Finally, if you wanted to build a house you would choose a builder rather than a a local odd job man, you would want to feel that your house would be built well.
So why on God's earth do you look like choosing a Senator who has little experience in governing, little, or no knowledge of international affairs, no military experience and has little or no chance of being elected when set against the fast rising popularity of John Mcain
Making promises is easy, anyone can do it, you, me, the local doctor, guy in a bar or local odd job man, the difference between making a promise and having the experience and knowledge how to keep it is as wide as The Grand Canyon itself.

World peace- troops home - better health care, education, welfare - less polution, better international cooperation - lower infaltion and higher wages, we all want that, so a promise to deliver on all those makes a person the right one to lead the western world- I don't think so !
The difference between 'a good sales pitch' as per the "Obama" school of marketing and that of the Clinton following, is not one is true and the other lies, but who has the best close. So look beyond the sales approach, buy the candidate who has experience, not the best sales person, all our hopes for humanity rest with you.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

bc Indiana — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:10:37 GMT

No knockout punch from Clinton. A basically civil debate and tactically it goes to Obama for fighting her down to a draw without looking like a bully.

Because don't forget double standards go both ways... she can attack him as much as she likes but the second he really pounds her then he's a big bully man... I though he walked a fine line with a lot of class.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

dante — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:11:33 GMT

I am confused, Clinton left herself wide open for general election criticism, making this argument and she supported the war in the beginning:

KING: Senator Clinton, as you know, I think your number was about $342 million. You say they're worthy projects, as Senator Obama did, for your state and that's part of your job, to get money for worthy projects back in your state.

Senator McCain, as you know, is proud of going around the country earmark.

On the specific issue of pork barrel spending, fiscal accountability by the government at a time when many Americans frankly think, whether it is the House or the Senate, that you all waste money on things that aren't important to them, don't affect their daily lives, does he have a better case to make to the American people that, "I have done this my entire career; I will do it as president," on the issue of on the issue of wasteful pork barrel spending?

CLINTON: Well, no, not at all. Because he supported the wasteful tax cuts of the Bush administration and the Iraq war, with the billions of dollars...

(APPLAUSE)

... that have been spent, and wants it to continue.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jana, Martinsville, IN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:12:34 GMT

It seems to me, Obama always benefits from Clinton's explanations on the positions they share. She explained away questions on the anti-surge vote and results, as well as the immigration objectives. Makes me wonder what his original response might have been.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

N Boddie — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:14:39 GMT

A thoughtful actual discourse that sought to educate the voters and stay away from petty name calling. Imagine, a debate about issues and policy without race-baiting, gender bashing and outright lies about your opponent! These two senators represented themselves well. Suprisingly, very few comments are posted here. Would childish mud-slinging result in more comments? Congratulations to both for raising the level of political debate.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ron — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:16:29 GMT

Obama has 20 years of hard-fought public service. Would he be better if he had 25? 35? That's absurd. The qualities of leadership and judgement are much more important. He has run a better campaign, and the debate demonstrates how well he connects. Senator Clinton demonstrates she's not without her qualities, but there can only be one, and only one is striking the magic chord of the moment with millions.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

J. Merle Stanley Westchester, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:16:47 GMT

Obama is still a wind bag, the media are still prostituting for him, and FIRST READ is, as usual, full of shit.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

kenn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:17:09 GMT

Well what an informed pundit,SHE NEEDED A KNOCKOUT MOMENT" SAYS YOU.HOW ABOUT A WIN IN TEXAS OR OHIO OR PA.NO THEN she would be ahead or close to tie but thats not good enough for the winner take all its over in febuary super tuesday who needs CA NJ NY FLA AND all the big states .I got caught thinking its a fair election MSNBZZZZZZ rules and so will OBAMA bring back the fairness doctrine. outlaw gay marriage and outlaw abortion get ready for change

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mark, Atlanta, Georgia — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:17:32 GMT

Chuck is right...there was no game changer here. It was like a football team being down 17 points with only a couple minutes left in the 4th quarter and deciding to run the ball. Yeah, you probably move the ball down the field and may even score but you don't have enough time! You gotta throw the ball in that situation and Hillary simply didn't open up the offense.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

kenn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:18:20 GMT

If its OK for OBAMA its OK for CLINTON its OK for your KIDS STEAL FROM YOU FRIENDS ITS SAFER WHEN YOU GET CAUGHT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Daren Lee — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:18:21 GMT

Obama made a point that got lost but it's the deciding factor. They both have the same goals for America but differ on HOW TO CREATE CHANGE.

If the Clinton Machine hasn't found dirt on Obama...there is none to find!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Patrick, Takoma Park MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:20:57 GMT

I was relieved that Hillary stayed positive last night. I'm hoping that Obama offers her the VP spot and she accepts it. She lacks Obama's ability to inspire people, but she has some good policy ideas--such as the foreclosure moratorium--that Obama would be wise to adopt as well.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Suzy, Vermont — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:21:43 GMT

I was initially moved by Hillary's last response. However, I soon was somewhat disgusted after I realized as well that she had essentially used John Edward's words. It made me think that again she was being the ultimate politician and that nothing coming from her mouth was sincere. Although her tone was somewhat conciliatory, I do believe the Clintons absolutely have something up their sleeves.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

RobK, Seattle, Wash. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:22:34 GMT

HIllary's no doubt a great debater (unless Obama brings up her Iraq War vote), however that last line that got so much praise...

I find it disgusting that the war that she voted on and supports and won't regret, that she told the tale of all those wounded soldiers who were on the short stick of that war.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

JC, HOUSTON, TEXAS — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:23:36 GMT

NOW LET'S START TO THINK REALISTIC HERE PEOPLE. THE MAN HAS BEEN DELUSIONAL JUST LIKE HIS WHOLE CAMPAIGN FROM THE BEGINNING. PEOPLE ARE SO THIRSTY FOR A BREAK THEY SEE WATER IN A DESERT AND DRINK IT, NOW KNOWING THAT IT IS SAND, BECAUSE THEY DO NOT KNOW THE DIFFERENCE! ALL THEY SEE IS WATER! PEOPLE THE MAN HAS NOT HAD ONE ACCOMPLISHMENT DURING HIS VERY VERY SHORT SENATOR LIFE. ON THE CONTRARY HILLARY HAS THE EXPERIANCE AND MANY ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND SHE WILL BRING ABOUT THIS CHANGE. SHE WILL GIVE YOU WATER NOT SAND. SO DON'T LET THE COLOR FOOL YOU, VOTE FOR WHO YOU BELIEVE IS BEING REALISIIC AND DO NOT FEEL INTIMIDATED BY OTHERS STAND UP AND LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD "HILLARY! HILLARY! HILLARY!" YEAH THAT IS RIGHT "HILLARY!" JC, HOUSTON, TEXAS

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

D. Travis, Norwalk, CT — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:24:24 GMT

MSNBC seems again to have watched a different debate. Hillary runs circles around Obama on policy, experience and implementing change. He agrees with all of her proposals after she lays them out and then claims that Republicans will join in and go along willingly. This is very juvenile and immature in my view. MSNBC is determined to frame this election to boost Obama's bona fides because of the obvious contempt and disrespect for Hillary Clinton. In spite of the continual gloss over of his lack of real credentials, the race is still even. He is unable to put her away even with all the media hype. It is truly amazing to watch a debate and then hear the analysis by MSNBC. You really wonder what debate they watched. Hillary is the best candidate for President for our country, but MSNBC will try to push it's Obama agenda the same way it pushed it's Iraq war agenda. I hope America will get wise and say no, not this time.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Chelsea M, Pittsburgh, PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:25:12 GMT

Hillary Clinton will stop at nothing to win the nomination and the press seems to help out where ever they can!

It was amazing to me last night after the debate how Pat Buchanan went on an on about how genuine she was with her ending remarks, how those remarks won the debate for her....and Keith Oberman let us know that those words were taken from John Edwards and Bill Clinton.

She plays by a different set of rules, and I think the press should call her on it. Chris Matthews, you were so hard on the Senator from Texas when he was caught off guard about Obama's record in the senate....let's see some of your tough guy interviewing with the hypocrisy of the Clinton campaign...there is a lot to work with there!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

rj — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:25:41 GMT

February 22, 2008

An extraordinary moment occurred last night during the Democratic Presidential Debate; a moment that is unprecedented in the history of those debates. The audience of friends and foes alike rose in unison in an ovation of emotion for Hillary Clinton. They were moved by her graciousness towards Barack Obama when she spoke about how honored she has been to run the race with him. They were moved by her sincere compassion and concern for those less fortunate than she; by her humility in recognizing that while she has had difficult times hers don’t compare to many of our wounded soldiers, their families, and other hurting families and children in America. In that extraordinary moment her honesty and vulnerability united a deeply divided, polarized, and often cynical group.

Senator Hillary Clinton is a true uniter. Her opposition says that Hillary is unelectable because she is too polarizing. Last night’s event refutes that idea.
She has all the attributes necessary to be our next Commander in Chief. She has the work ethic, the strength, the experience, the resilience; coupled with the compassion, integrity, maturity, and true grit needed to lead us in this time of great need. Hillary is a compassionate fighter. She will be an exceptional President of the United States.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Luis Mendez Colton, Ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:26:02 GMT

Why hasn't the media call Obama on "There are no blue states, there are no red states, there is The United States." This statement was taken from the movie "Man of the Year" staring Robin Williams running for President of the United States (Where are your reseachers?) Please comment

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ralph, PA, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:27:28 GMT

I like Hillary's health plan. 14 million people don't have medical insurance so what's her plan ... force people to pay for it. Maybe I should get into the insurance business. Guaranteed customers are always good for business.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

PulSamsara — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:28:07 GMT

Barack Obama for President of the UNITED States of America.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Frank Palazzolo — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:32:05 GMT

I still don't get the Obama thing. Lets just hope terrorists sleep thru an Obama Administration. If not, lets start praying right now.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Robert — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:32:36 GMT

First I would like to say, great job by both senators!but I'm for Obama,the fact of the matter is that Hillary has taking money from lobbyist and voted for the war in which Bush and the republican party,never show any truth of iraq having weapons of mass distuction!Obama was right from the beginning,and she claims to be ready on day one to be president! second she has taking money from lobbyist and other groups which may have influance on her as president,and may not have the people completly at heart!GO OBAMA

It is exactly these types of comments that will kill our party in the general election. It is fine to say you thought Obama won the debate and that Hillary is not your choice. But remember, we need all the votes in November. We will need the clinton supporters on our side. By attacking Clinton negatively the way you just did will only ensure a republican president. Stop the attacks on Hilary but support Obama.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

steve post falls idaho — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:32:44 GMT

I watched the debate last night and both were good it was good to watch both talk about the facts and not sling mud but obama had to remind hillary about that. But hillary does not it get the talk is about change and all hillary said is how long she has been there, that is part of the change we want things she has done

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mary, Casa Grande Arizona — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:36:30 GMT

At the end of the debate - when Hillary was talking about how the service men and (I assume women) were coming into the hospital - some in wheelchairs, some in gurneys, some on their own mobility, did anyone else think to themselves - "well, they might not have been that way if you had not voted for the damned war!"
Go BARACK Go!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

SMD, New York, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:39:51 GMT

Hillary is dishonest with us in order to win. Take, for example, the "plagiarism" nonsense: Not only did Obama debunk it last night, but in her post-debate rally, Hillary combine two statements taken almost verbatim from John Edwards and Bill Clinton. Even more revealing is the fact that she lifted her "Ready to lead on day one" catch phrase from Al Gore's 2000 campaign ad, which concludes by asking, referring to Bush, "Is he ready to lead America?"

She is only concerned with her own prominence, and as such is willing to do anything - attack, lie, deceive, and manipulate - to get what she wants and feels she deserves. She is truly the poster child for self-entitlement. I can't imagine who would want her in the White House - especially when we have someone of Obama's caliber running.

Obama is presidential in every way. His message, focus and bearing radiates leadership and intelligence with no trace of the Machiavellian machinations we have been forced to accept for so many years - and which Hillary would continue.

Barack Obama is our only hope for a future in which America regains its strength, decency and honor.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jeff Batter, Meriden, CT — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:40:19 GMT

I thought Barak handled it well, but wished he was a tad stronger. He could have also pointed out that all 'famed' lines had an author behind them; Reagan's "ash heap of history", "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall"
JFK's "Ask not what your country...", etc, and they didn't follow up with noting who wrote the speech line.
He could have then matter of factly pointed out that her Xerox comment was obviously scripted, and lame at that. Lastly he could point out the amusing fact that Hillary has been using his campaign slogans in her speeches; "Fired up....", "Yes, we can".
That would have ended it, but she will continue to use this, I'm sure in her speeches over the next two weeks.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kim McCluskey,Ely, Mn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:44:06 GMT

I thought they both did a good job. Her statement at the end had a lot of emotion in it. I wonder if when she saw our troops with all their serous injuries that deep inside she new her vote helped to creaate this terrible situation. If we all could see what the horror,s of war bring, we as a nation would not allow this to happen.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

jp,michigan — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:44:35 GMT

Obama stated " I have shown judgement to lead". Did he show judgement when in the Illinois state house he voted 130 "present"so not to commit? Did he show judgement , when He supported Kerry/ Edwards who voted for the Iraq War, though he was against it? I guess his judgement to lead, blows which ever way the political wind goes.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

anita preer, Boston, MA. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:46:35 GMT

Obama did an excelent job of connecting the war to the economy,putting down her attacks perfectly, and respectfully. His foreign policy remarks showed a comprehensive understanding of what we are facing in the future, and the different road we need to take. Hilary played for sympathy in the end, like NH, even repeating the "How do you do it?" line, and talking about all the "hits" she has taken (Made me think about Bill's infidelities - I got no sympathy for her there!) Then the story about the soldiers. Well, why doesn't she take responsibility for putting them there? That to me was sickening. Then she copied Edwards. By the way, the standing O at the end was for both of them. It was over. She just decided to keep going. Barack was consistent, showed substance as well as leadership. Hilary was all over the place. She attacks him, she is honored to sit next to him. Who is she?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Steve C, Bristol, TN — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:46:54 GMT

Even though, in my mind, Hillary Clinton narrowly won this debate, she just can’t overcome Obama’s superior stage presence. For the remaining debate (s), she’d probably best be served by using an old sports tactic: fake an injury, and have Bubba Clinton come off the bench as a replacement. As effective as Obama has been against a weak field, Bill is the master of this stuff, and he’d mop the floor with the young man. It would be grand to watch however; like two dishonest Used Car Salesman in a sales – pitch smackdown.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kathy F., Clarence, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:47:33 GMT

Both Senators did a great job in getting their message across in yesterday's debate. But I still can not see what the attraction with Obama is other than he appears to be a nice guy. I agree that we need to change the status quo in Washington but I still am not clear how he plans on making that happen. We need someone in Washington who can work with all kinds of personalities and can put the gloves on if necessary. Hillary on the other hand is very presidential and a great communicator. Her last statement conveys what her character is about and how well she can connect with people. I don't think the media is giving her the credit she deserves. Obama supporters should look hard at both candidates and go with the one who has the substance, experience and leadership to take us into the next 4 years. We don't need another Bush in the White House, let's get real.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

steve, huntington,wv — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:48:25 GMT

when you just compare numbers, specifics and facts, Obama has nothing to say...other than "change" "hope" and "we can do better".
Are we about to elect a president because he can move a crowd with words?

Isn't anyone taken back by this?

Clinton's main problem seems to be that she doesn't speak as well or use platitudes as poetically as Obama.
in addition, the dudes at MSNBC seem to hate her.

And you thought it was FOX that was so biased.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

AZ, PA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:49:13 GMT

Obama was apparently very eager to score points, but looks bad in the way he conducted himself. Hillary, on the other hand, showed restraint, humility, grace, and strength. It is absolutely clear who is a better candidate for president. BTW, I think it is "common sense" to give people credit when you "borrow" words from others. Call people who pointed it out silly is just not the kind of "common sense" that can unite people. I thought Obama's response to the comment was offensive and cocky.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dave, Boston — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:51:22 GMT

Here's why I think Hillary lost last night. She's made the last two+ weeks of her campaign all about "speeches vs solutions", but as they discussed the various issues last night she wasn't able to make it clear that SHE actually HAS any more or better solutions than Obama does. In fact, many of their ideas for the future are the same. You can't constantly accuse your opponent of not having solutions if your plans for the future are essentially the same as his. Because that means if he doesn't have any solutions, then neither do YOU! Sure, they may disagree on some points, but that just means he has *different* solutions, not fewer solutions. She's been making this "speeches vs solutions" argument for weeks... but she did not prove her point one bit.

Not to mention, the only moment in the debate that generated a negative response from the audience was when she tried to go negative (and petty) by using an obviously rehearsed line (which I seriously doubt she even wrote). And her best moment turns out to be when she delivered lines stolen from Edwards! It wouldn't be so bad if she hadn't spent so much time arguing that such "borrowing of words" was wrong. But she did, so I really think that's going to come back and bite her in the ass. All the initial responses to that were positive, but when the pundits more carefully scrutinize that line and realize where it came from, she's going to be facing some serious blowback from that.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Colin, River Vale, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:51:43 GMT

One curious thing about last nights debate: why aren't news organizations more forcefully pointing out how Hillary "plagiarized" her weepy closing remarks from John Edwards: that would not only make her a plagiarist, but a hypocrite as well. But I suppose she would somehow make a case that since her campaign "isn't about words," she's allowed to be both. Yikes! Anyway, great debate. I think we all need to unite around Obama. Superdelegates also need to take note of which candidate, based on the latest state and nationwide polls could beat McCain: that is clearly Obama. . .no contest.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

BC - Westchester, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:52:10 GMT

I was curious why Hillary kept mentioning John Edwards and why she used some of his lines from his speeches. Is she trying to get his support or is she trying to get his voters? Talk about plagerism. Do you think Edwards said - Here Hillary use this tag line of mine - I some how doubt it.
I think Obama held his own in the debate, I was thinking though, as I bet he was, that he was going to be on the defensive most of the night. She did not make any points as far as I am concerned and the fact that she got bood at one point is a testament to that. At the end with that "sincere, heartfelt" closing of hers I was waiting for the tears. Worked once didn't it?

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

whitey,Durham,NC — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:54:36 GMT

In North Carolina, there are several democrats like myself who are planning to cross party lines and vote McCain if Obama is the dems nominee. We will never support him. I am extremely disappointed in your coverage of this part of the election cycle and your network should be ashamed.
Janice, Eastern, NC (Sent Friday, February 22, 2008 12:50 AM)

Um, sure thing there, "Janice". This is from an ACTUAL person from North Carolina-not a script-written piece of political nonsense like "Janice there. Notice how my response actually sounds, if you will, HUMAN? Only an IDIOT will 'cross party lines' and vote for McCain if Obama is the nominee. Well, you do live in North Carolina, and there are an awful lot of idiots here....

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Garret, Milwaukee, Wi — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:55:41 GMT

If all I had to do was to dress in a nice suit, speak in generalities using "change" every 10th word, cross my hands and look at the sky waiting for my chance to talk again, I'd run for president. We run "movie-like" popularity contests we designate as campaigns. We obviously don't favor brains.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

DC, Ft Lauderdale, FL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:55:56 GMT

He's an EMPTY SUIT! He will be a puppet on a string. The man is full of dung! I don't like calling my President, Obama, I can't imagine having a President whose middle name is HUSSEIN representing the United States of America. It is an embarrasment and a disgrace to the Americans who so have loved their country all of their lives from the very beginning of their lives! I have no idea what this man has accomplished, and it's apparent neither does he! Mrs Obama has a chip on her shoulder the size of TEXAS.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

DR. John Ivy, Sandpoint, Idaho — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:57:09 GMT

So hillary wants to be President and the leader and manager of one of the greatest countries in the world! She can't even lead and manage her OWN campaign - it's a complete and utter shambles!! She "hires" on a Latina to her staff to attempt to sway the Latino vote and when that doesn't work, that same Latina is "gone" in a heartbeat! And she wants "voters" to give her a chance leading our country - NOT LIKELY - if her management of "her" campaign is ANY example of what can be expected.

But then again, the claim will be that it's NOT her "fault" that she lost, but rather, the fault of THOSE heading up her campaign - but..."WHO" hired them???

Therefore, ANYONE but hillary - a woman of "color", GREAT!! - just NOT hillary!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Slav Tomczak — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:04:56 GMT

I suggest that the people who are in Clinton's camp will "smell the grass" and be objective about the last debate and foremost about her character as a candidate. The comments, that she did "fantastic" last night, posted on the board must be coming from a "la la land". It's time to admit that her campaign is falling apart and her record is a reason for it. She was sitting there with a fake smile and her 35 years of experience next to her. Please start reading facial expressions. I think, the greed and the selfishness are her guides. I am proud that this country is getting more educated about the politics and doing the home work on all candidates. The results of the recent primaries are a proof of it. We are tired of "old same, old...".If you want to change so many things in this country, what were you doing for the last 35 years? Falling asleep in the classroom? I agree, you were present.....I think, it is time for Clinton's to bounce....

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

JoAnne Lengyel Marietta GA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:05:24 GMT

I was reading the campaign spending reports this am (Howard Wolfsen you should be ashamed!) as well as reading all the reviews of the debate. It is a constant source of amazement to me why people have never been able to see how scripted and fake Hilary is. She is and always has been one of most ambitious women I have ever seen, right down to staying with a philandering husband as nothing was going to derail her goals. She totally underestimated Obama and is now facing a crashing defeat. The Clinton's ego, once again, was so big that they did not financially plan for the long haul and they surrounded themselves with and had their "friends" run the campaign. Huge tactical error. After she loses she and Bill will put somes sort of creative spin on this - but will never look in the mirror and see where the real fault lies.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

dotheresrearch — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:05:37 GMT

Morning Funny

Hillary "borrows" a few lines
www.youtube.com/watch?v=H60y8mHMpmU&feature=related

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lynne Woodworth, Honeoye, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:05:51 GMT

It is so infuriating to me that every time Hillary explains in detail her position, Barak just tweaks it and spins it a little and tries to make it his own. He talks in platitudes with little or no substance. Frankly, I'm getting tired of his speaking style, He eloquently describes situations and says he will change things but he doesn't say HOW. She is smart, informed, ready and all about HOW she will get it done. The devil of implementation is always in the detail. He openly admits that that is not his strength! Case in point: During the debate, Barak got so tangled up in the elements of his health care plan he contradicted himself - The news especially MSNBC, only focuses on Hillary's misteps. Were the reporters sleeping during the segment of his plan???

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ushar Rajkumar, Tokyo, Japan — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:05:54 GMT

A wonderful debate--Class Acts on both however Ms. Clinton should have been wiser to know that when a momentum is steam rolling negative thaughts don`t matter.Psycho. 101. Gandhi,Mandela,Churchill,JFK are all wrapped in a body called Barak Obama. Mr.Obama the world needs you,Mr.Putin Mr.Jiabao to make it better and safer.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

peter feldham, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:07:47 GMT

In the final analysis of the debate, I think both remain about where they were before. However, I think that favors Obama more than it does Clinton.

I do want to say, however, that I was quite taken by Hillary's final comment. If one can suspend their biases for just a moment and allow themselves to believe that her overall INTENTIONS are good, then I think we potentially saw a little bit of the Hillary inside...which was quite hopeful in my view and filled me with a bit of encouragement...similar to what Obama has done the entire campaign...and THAT is the difference that I believe will ultimately carry him to the nomination.

Regardless, I sincerely hope the nominee will soon become obvious as I do not relish the idea of an election decided by superdelegates...not at all.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Abigail, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:08:43 GMT

Can someone tell me why Hillary's campaign managers quit on her??????????????????????

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

glen Tucson AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:12:39 GMT

I have been observing these so called debates. So lopsided. Who says money doesn't buy election? One candidate spends 4 times as much on advertising. Is it not true that the best customers get the best treatment? Why does one get personal questions and the other not like the use of quotes from former popular persons? It is intresting that Mr. Patrick made quotes but no credit. Didn't he steal from FDR, JFK and others. Even though he said he gave one candidate permission to use them, is it honest to give something stolen to someonne else????? Isn't that still stealing?
I noticed when BO was speaking about discrimination of people he failed to mention SEX discrimination!! This was a very unfair debate! HRC had no opportunity to respond to the IRAQ mess. This election process is so messed up. Look what the millions of dollars and hours spent would do to help needy ones. I sure feel sorry for everyone involved. Look at the amount of gas that is being used to get to primaries. Look at all the time spent campaigning not only by the candidates but by supporters. There need to be some serious changes made.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

rhonda, s, okla — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:19:33 GMT

Hillary once again showed her strengths and her leadership skills; Obama was once again the follower, taking answers and words this time from Hillary herself; He reiterated her opinions on most topics debated and showed very little originality; the news media says he's "developing", showing more solidity; wake up America; this country doesn't need someone who hasn't found themselves yet; we need someone who knows who they are, what they stand for, and how to get things done! She is the best candidate who is ready now. I'm sick of the media ridiculing her for everything she does or doesn't do; the only reason he was calm and cool last night is because he fails miserably when under pressure. Once again, he took the easy way out, taking the middle road on most subjects, not wanting to outline any specifics for fear of turning voters off; good leaders fight for their causes, not votes! He will be a "yes" man; the line from the country song describes him best: "You've got to stand for something, or you'll fall for anything."

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mike — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:20:35 GMT

Get more election news and videos. Check it out.

http://www.seferm.com/news/us/governementelection/elections.asp

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

SMD, New York, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:25:17 GMT

DC, Ft Lauderdale, FL wrote:
"He's an EMPTY SUIT! He will be a puppet on a string. The man is full of dung! I don't like calling my President, Obama, I can't imagine having a President whose middle name is HUSSEIN representing the United States of America. It is an embarrasment and a disgrace to the Americans who so have loved their country all of their lives from the very beginning of their lives! I have no idea what this man has accomplished, and it's apparent neither does he! Mrs Obama has a chip on her shoulder the size of TEXAS."

Thank you for underscoring the ignorance and bigotry of those who support Clinton.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Michael Mc Cone, Orcutt, California. — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:25:41 GMT

"[Hillary] wouldn't answer that question; instead, she made a positive case for herself but didn't make the case against [Barack]."

This is why I can't stand listnening to politicians. It is few and far between when a candidate will answer the question that was asked of them. It is a way for them to duck questions that they either have no answer for or answering honestly would harm them, but they can't lie because everyone knows the truth of the issue too well.

I am waiting with mind-numbing desire for an interviewer or debate mediator to allow a candidate to finish talking and then say, "That is all well and good, but you in no way answered the question that was asked." And, if they were to follow that up with asking the original question again I would not be surprised if a little squeak of child-like glee erupts from me.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Slav Tomczak, Plymouth, MA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:30:19 GMT

I suggest that the people who are in Clinton's camp will "smell the grass" and be objective about the last debate and foremost about her character as a candidate. The comments, she did "fantastic" last night posted on the board must be coming from a "la la land". It's time to admit that her campaign is falling apart and her record is a reason for it. She was sitting there with a fake smile and her 35 years of experience next to her. Please start reading facial expressions. I think the greed and the selfishness are her guides. I am proud that this country is getting more educated about a politics and doing a home work on all candidates. The results of the recent primaries are a proof of it. We are tired of "old same, old...".If you want to change so many things in this country, what were you doing for the last 35 years? Falling asleep in the classroom? I think, it is time for Clintons to bounce and live us alone....

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

GM, Chicago, IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:36:01 GMT

Someone mentioned, (Kevin NM) "perception is what matters” That is what is wrong about this whole election process. Perception matters to whom? World leaders, the Iraqi's, Terrorists, Congress.... ? What’s needed is substance- experience - toughness. Obama is skilled at one thing...telling the voters what they want to hear. What he’s been scripted to say. He is a counter-puncher, that likes to respond, not initiate. Why do you think he won the coin toss and chose to go “second” last night. He looks like a deer in the headlights, and one that would surround himself with "handlers" just like someone else we know has done for the past 7 1/2 years. Clinton has the experience and political contacts to get SOMETHING done in Washington. To take on the big business "pals", those who have been enjoying the ride with Bush. That is what it is all about. Not who looks good in a debate---If all the President had to do was debate world leaders...we would be a BIG trouble
Having experience is a GOOD thing...don't settle for the “perception” of experience!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mark, KC, MO — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:38:53 GMT

I think that if Hillary is ready to stop her run then we have just elected John McCain as President. As a life long Democrat, and from the south, if you think Obama will run strong in the “red” states in November then I thin you are sadly mistaken. If he was from the south then he may run well but as he is an outsider he will not carry one southern state to include Florida in my opinion. As a Democrat I am not sure we put our best candidate forward in 2008, but then again I’m not sure who our best candidate really is since Gore seems uninterested in the Presidency since he was cheated out of it in 2000. All I can say is we need to start looking forward to 2012.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Lee Brock, League City, Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:54:12 GMT

Senator Barack Obama certainly is an extremely intelligent, issue knowledgeable, caring gentleman who I will be proud to call President. He is not interested in the old ways of politics or the "gottya game" that is so ingrained in Washington. This last debate re-emphised his outlook on life and his positive attitude. If you don't think you can do something, you certainly won't do anything. I do feel that Senator Clinton realized that he is going to be the next President and to her credit she is positioning herself to be a part of his positive administration. Good for her! This year has also brought to the forefront some of the good reporters that I have not seen before. Todd is well versed in his field and I do enjoy watching him and hearing his comments. He is good! I hope that the television leaders will give him more air-time.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Chris, AR — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:55:28 GMT

The debate was a wash. Obama didn't slip, Clinton didn't strike. Except for the point about Chris Matthews' question to an Obama supporter. As a voter who would like to hear about issues I thought it was refreshing to see Matthews try to get some justification for the gentleman's support besides "haven't you heard him talk?" So we are going from a horribly unintelligent man with no experience in Bush towards a very intelligent man with no experience in Obama. Why choose when you can have both in Clinton? Intelligence and experience-what a concept. As a voter who has followed this race pretty closely I was in no way surprised that Obama's supporter had nothing. It was surprising that the question was even asked of him-maybe for the first time of the entire campaign of any Obama supporter. I am much less impressed by others on the network. In fact I am trying to remember when MS. B in the morning stopped announcing that she had family working for the Obama campaign. I think it may have been around South Carolina. Was it because they don't work for Obama anymore? Maybe, but that doesn't make sense. It may be because the network was afraid it would look bad. It does. But no one needs to know that may play a role in the way she "frames" questions to pundits. Or by the way she giggles, or is horribly offended, when she talks about anything Clinton. Sorry to be so harsh but it is really obvious. I am quite sure that other networks have people working for candidates but they seem to respect the process more as their preferences are not on display. I believe that this network will help the Democrats in the 2008 fight against the Republicans and their media outlet. Unfortunately your over-zealous sensationalism of the race and your clearly slanted coverage has encouraged more in-fighting amongst like minded Democrats. And it resembles the other side of the aisle. Don't fight the Republican agenda by fighting like Republicans.
I thought we were above that.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Sherry - Cincinnati, OH — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:55:51 GMT

I am 52 and have never paid such close attention to a polical race as I have this one. I believe the Clintons have always had a hidden agenda. I am sorry but how can everyone play down what her husband did - the lies the money we spent to find out he lied. And last night she laughed when asked the question about personal crisis in her life. She has used that card before. I don't feel sorry for her. I think it is embarassing. Is Obama perfect no. Will he make mistakes, yes. But I do believe he cares about the American people more than himself or his personal agenda. I do not believe this is a power trip as I do believe it is with her. If she does win I will vote for McCain no matter what his position is on anything. Stupid on my part maybe but I don't trust her. I find myself doubting her emotion. Most of the time she does not seem to have emotion and if you can laugh at something that embarrassed this country to have a president doing those things in an office that should have been respected than she is not capable of running this country or caring about the people in it.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Glenn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 15:59:20 GMT

I have to agree with the comments of people who say that msnbc has gone 'Obama'....shameful....it is sooooo obvious!!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

glen — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:03:33 GMT

How Sad!!! Reading these comments about use of words, how petty, looks like one's voting will be based on fickle, unwise focus on use of words instead of real issues. Issues like losing homes, no money for food, no medicine, no warm place to sleep at night.stupid wars that just make the rich richer, and give more power to ruthless politicians. These are persons that choose leaders for us? God help us and he will!! Please read in the Holy Bible Daniel 2:44 "And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms and it shall stand forever". This is the answer to what people pray for in the Lord's prayer or the our father prayer. This is real hope. Commendation to those who possess it and work for it's realty.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jay, Northbrook, IL — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:09:14 GMT

Hillary Clinton says she is ready to be Commander in chief on Day One, yet she does not know what Commander in chief is or does.

Commander in chief is the commander of a nation's military forces or significant element of those forces.

If you read the transcript of last night's debate as I have several times, you will clearly see that she does know what she is talking about. On the other hand, Sen. Obama knew exactly what is required of Commander in chief.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

shantell Smith, Nassau, New Providence — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:14:26 GMT

I taught obama was excellent with his debate but hillary i to hot to win the nommonie for the party but i strongly beleive that obama will win the demo an the pres of the U>S>A

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ralph — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:15:04 GMT

Hillary is a fake. She wants health care for all and she is going to save us all by mandating us to pay for it. Sounds like she is helping the insurance companies more than us. She preaches about how unfair this economy is but supports trade deals like NAFTA and the increases of caps on visa programs like H1B. So ... she wants to put people out of work and force them to but medical insurance. She is full of it. She is not for the common man she is for corporate America and it shows that she will stop at nothing to become president. As far as solutions, SHE DOES NOT offer or detail her solutions any more than Barack Obama does. This experience excuse for supporting her is just hot air. She is NOT more qualified. If the last 20 years of Washington is reflective of how the country runs with experienced politicians then give me some fresh meat. GIVE ME SOMEONE WHO IS NOT EXPERIENCED WITH the same BS that we've had for the last 20 + years. We do not need the same shit in there anymore.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Doug, St louis. Mo — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:17:10 GMT

I find it funny that Billary supports will say things like clearly and obviously she is a better canidate but really if it was so clear of obvious there would be no primary. What is clear is that Hillary comes off as a power hungry hypocrite who will do anything to win or steal the primary and if she does it loose the election. Obama on the other hand is smart and does not talk down to people. He gets them excited and gets them involved in a belief that they can do better. Things can be better and by working togather it will be better. Which if your remember back in 1991 a canidate from Hope AR did the same thing but not as well. The point is that Obama will win the primary because he is exciting the electorate. He has the ability to win the general for the same reason and because he has better ideas and is in touch with the general population of this country.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

WEST PALM, FLA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:18:33 GMT

IT WAS GOOD TO SEE THAT EVEN SENATOR CLINTON NOW HAS HOPE, SHE SAID IT IN ENDING.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mitchell Feldman, Vestal, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:19:21 GMT

It makes me laugh to read all of these accounts of the debate. People who supported Obama (including myself) felt that he did better. Those who love Hillary feel that she was the victor. These debates underscore their respective styles and that is a lot of what had attracted us to each of them in the first place (so these assessments are to be expected). BTW Hillary did 'lift' her closing from both Edwards' withdrawal speech and the Bill speech in 1992 (check youtube). But that doesn't bother me. What bothers me is the hypocrisy of her Howard Wolfson inspired criticisms of Barack.

But debates aside...remember we are not voting for the winner of a debating society contest (if so, it would be Obama for me [Hillary bloviates]) but that's not the point.

Let's keep focus people. Hillary voted for this war, voted to cede Congressional war making authority to the president and then voted again (in 2007) to authorize the use of force in Iran. She has ties to lobbyists, has taken money from spurious donors and is tied to the political haggling of the nineties. She and Bill are one and I, for one, do not want them to circumvent the 22nd amendment...two terms was enough (and I voted for him both times). I also do not like the option of a co-presidency. Most importantly, she is not electable.

Obama is an expert in foreign policy and time and again has exhibited the good judgment that certifies this (remember his Hyde Park speech in 2002 against the Iraq incursion). He accurately criticised our monolithic support of Musharraf back in the September debates and pointed out that the unpopular Pakistani dictator has been providing safe harbor for Bin Laden and the Taliban. He represents a new face for America as our nation approaches the world. Obama will be better able to defeat Islamic radicals by giving quelling anti-American feeling and thereby giving strength to the moderates.

Obama has brought Americans into the political process, in a way not seen in the past. I have never seen young people, and those previously disenfranchised, so excited about an election. This man is a consensus builder who has the best chance to move progressive legislation through the Congress. Obama is the future. He is a once-in-a-generation candidate and we should not miss the opportunity to put him in the Oval Office.

I am cautiously optimistic that this race is going our way. If the Clintons are smart they will avoid a party-rendering fight to the finish and Barack will be our nominee. Although last night's debate more then demonstrated his substance, I have no doubt that Obama's inspiring voice of change will triumph in November.
Obama '08

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ralph PA, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:21:08 GMT

Comments like these are so stupid ...

"Clinton comes off as so much more seasoned , prepared and intelligent than Obama.He's about 4 to 8 years away from being ready. What a plan, Hilary president and Obama Vice Pres and then when she is ready to step down he's ready to go. "

Same crap different smell. He sounds, looks etc.. just as experienced as her. No difference. Also, he seems a lot more truthful. I don't trust her one bit. She is Washington as usual.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Johnella Wimberly, Louisville, Kentucky — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:24:37 GMT

I believe Obama will be a president of his word and all America needs that kind of President. Last night he showed us how presidential he really is by being a gentleman in his responses to Senator Clintons negative attacks. I look forward to Obama as our next President with his speeches and talk, he has already inspired the country, hopely on March 4th we can really see who won these debates. I want to see Omama in KRNTUCKY!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Viking, Okemos, MI — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:26:09 GMT

To Ms. Berger, the non-American above who thought Clinton won hands-down, the point isn't what foreigners think, the point is what Americans think. And insulting us doesn't make us consider your opinion more fully, it makes us write it off. I read Der Spiegel and other foreign papers and the world is hoping for Obama to be President--and terrified of McCain giving us a third Bush term.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

carson soalocean,sac,ca — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:33:10 GMT

well it was a good debate,for hillary not to attack obama and gives mcain advantage on general election.obama should consider takin clinton as her runningmate for the whitehouse,they will work perfrctly together,'both fighters'w/ great ideas..

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

tony farrulla — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:33:53 GMT

I for one felt that Obama won this debate hands down... pretty much as noted by most of the above comments... I also would like to make note that, not only has Obama won eleven in a row... but, he also won the coin throw and was able to decide if he would go first or let Clinton go first... I think he's now twelve n zero. Go Obama

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ralph PA, NJ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:44:29 GMT

Hillary wants a "time out on trade". Just that comment alone shows how transparent she really is. She wants a "time out" now so that she can get elected then it is "time in" once she is President.

Wake up people. It is about the economy and American jobs! Hillary supports the handing of not only blue colar jobs but all white colar jobs to visa holders and outsourcing companies. That is why she keeps bringing up "green colar" jobs ... fantasy jobs ... Start all over again right Hill? Maybe my bank will let me keep my house until I could start making as much money as I did with my white colar. Let me see ... invest more money to train for an "Alice in wonderland" green colar job ... Because India and China are taking all the good jobs. Maybe I could start at 35K a year and hopefully start making the same money I am now by the time I retire. HILLARY IS IN IT FOR HERSELF!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Rob Miller, Gilbert, AZ — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:59:26 GMT

I thought the debate was outstanding! Thank you Senators Obama and Clinton for the historic moment. I am more than ready for the Democratic party to regain the White House. I agree with Tim, I like a Obama/Clark ticket for the fall. Go Democrats!!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Cindy Marug — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:01:32 GMT

I'm a lifelong Republican, but I will be voting for Obama for President. He is, without question, a better candidate than Hillary or John McCain. He has the thinking and the actions to pull the country together and focus on some very important domestic issues. If Hillary wins, I will be very disappointed.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Mary Singleton, Cleveland Hts, Ohio — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:05:33 GMT

Hillary Clinton won the debate! She’s a perfect match for John McCain. She was outstanding on the issues and I hope and pray she wins Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
Obama is not ready to debate John McCain; John McCain will eat him alive. Obama can not run the Country with his lack of knowledge and experience, he would put the country in bankrupt, and our enemies will be knocking on our front door.

I’m an African American Woman, degree in Mathematics. I enjoyed the debate last night. Hillary will make a wonderful president!! And people should stop being so negative towards her and listen to what she has to say.

Andrea Berger and John, Waco, from Texas, I read your comments and you’re right on target.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jesse Jenkins, III — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:18:19 GMT

Clearly, Obama was the better thinker and the candidate to challenge John McCain. What most of the bloggers failed to mention is the part of his health care plan that mandates that parents be responsible for their children health care. If a parent fails to support their children in any way a third party steps in. What can be more important than health care. If you fail to pay child support, educate your child, abuse your child and subject them to any behavior that is not in their best interest, you subject yourself to the civil and criminal court
.... (fined,jailed or both). He is the only candidate to wage the war argument. Talk about hipocrisy.... Hillary where did you get your material. Obama came across as qualified, bonafied, certified and dignified. I was told a cat ..... had nine lives Hillary the number is eleven and counting. Ding Dong ..................... Hail to the chief. We need Obama the listener,thinker and doer to the rescue (these are skills few of us possess). May God Bless America and the World. Good Day.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

BAB, Brooklyn, NY — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:23:47 GMT

Whether this debate changed the trajectory of the race is not the right question. One cannot evaluate the effect of last night's encounter out of context. This cycle of the campaign (post-Clinton's dark and lonely February) comprises 2 debates with five days between and seven days after, before any more voting occurs. Campaigns are nothing if not strategic and last night was but one component of a 12-day plan. Without knowing their plan, there is no way for us to know whether she accomplished what she needed to.

(Of course, the numbers are stacked so high against her at the moment, it's hard to imagine any strategy that does not ultimately depend on externals.)

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jim Rihn, Mercer, Pa — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:25:28 GMT

I live in a mostly all white area of Penna.-99.99% white but I would be proud to have Sen.Obama as my president. He is truly a gentelman and I believe a leader.I could get strung-up around here for saying that but after watching his campaine this far I believe he's sincere.Hopefully a new Wash.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Objective Media Please, Maryland — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:36:54 GMT

It's extremely sad to wake up from a formative debate between Senators Clinton and Obama to the hatched job/evaluation of the "Morning Joe" crew. "Morning Joe" may want to disclose their real purpose..."Morning Bias". "Morning Joe" strategically chopped up clips of last night's debate which favored Sen. Clinton. The American people wanted important answers from Sen. Obama regarding his achievements in the US Senate. (I'm one of them). Sen. Obama soundly answered that specific criticism. However, instead of Joe playing the clip where the Senator responded in his own words. Joe unfairly directed the question to Howard Wolfson, Clinton's communications director. Mr. Wolfson did not take this prime opportunity to critique the Senator's response. Yet, he ignored the facts revealed during the well organized and fair debate hosted by CNN.

I sincerely, hope those of us who observed the debate last night will not be persuaded by the bias tactics of MSNBC. I frequently, listen to varying view points covered by major cable news. In this case, "Morning Joe", lost sight of fair and objective reporting...sad! A couple of more points: Sen. Obama was the candidate who had to "bring it". He performed well especially addressing the question of his possible role as "Commander and Chief". Obama took the run for presidency straight to Sen. McCain's door steps. Funny, MSNBC did not think this aspect of the debate was a good talking point (certainly a broader perspective).

Lastly, it is to Sen. Clinton's advantage Sen. Obama did Not finish well concerning the last questions; that's why I give them grades of B- and A- respectfully.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Patrick Casey. Salt Lake City,UT — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:41:37 GMT

Chuck. It seems to me, the only people who would like to see Senator Clinton go for the jugular are conservatives and the jackals in the media.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Afsaneh, Chevy Chase, MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:48:15 GMT

MASOCHISTIC BEHAVIOR:
I am reminded of victims of non-stop abuse who praise the abuser for letting up for a split second!!
OBAMA is gracious and gallant ALL the time - If he got praise each time he committed a human act - the news cycles would have nothing else to report.

I'm not a masochist. So, until it gets to a point that the mud-slinging and deceiving behavior stops permanently and OBAMA is President, I
will be cautiously thankful for Hillary's moment.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Afsaneh, Chevy Chase, MD — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 17:48:24 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Michael, Dallas Texas — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 18:57:39 GMT

I watched the debate last night. I went to see Obama speak while he was here in Dallas, I didn't faint. Obama is a media creation and is being supported by people who forget too easily and by those who were not old enough to see what President Clinton AND his wife did to turn this country around after Reagan/Bush. African Americans really should know better. I am African American and I sure do and I don't forget. Unfettered group identification is dangerous. Obama, you had better win, you must win or alot of Democrats, paticularly those living in large cities, will not forgive you for coming in, taking Republican money and votes, and costing us this crucial election. You'll be the Ralph Nader of 2008.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Kevin, CR, IA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 18:59:36 GMT

A couple of observations and a question:

First, both candidates did well. They stayed on the real issues for the most part. Obama did a great job of not getting drawn in and steering back to the real issues when Hillary made her "Xerox" remark. Hillary sold her final comments very well, regardless of whether they were her own words or not (a bit ironic though).

It does appear that Hillary is keeping another run in mind, since she chose not to go nuclear, and avoided the discussion of superdelegates. I think that was the better of her choices under the circumstances.

Those who think McCain will eat Obama alive - have you seen McCain try to speak? Obama may spend a second or two searching for just the right word (which is actually a sign of intelligence), but McCain can barely speak the words written right in front of him.

Now, the question: If Hillary is indeed honored to share the stage with Obama and willing to acknowledge what great candidates both of them are, then why do so many of Hillary's supporters seem not to share that particular sentiment of hers? A true party supporter would agree that both are good for the party and either would be better than any Republican after 8 years of W.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

b4change, Lewiston, Idaho — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 19:19:14 GMT

I am fascinated that the final comments of the debate by Clinton are viewed as a "win" for her. The QUESTION was about what time of crisis in their life that tested them the most. It is incredible that the time that Clinton refers to is a recent visit to a site with injured veterans of a war she voted to send folks to. That was a photo opp on the campaign trail, NOT a "time she was tested" and didn't really answer the true base of the question. Yes, yes, she did allude to her troubled times because of Bill but her "aaahhh" moment was about the injured soldiers she just met. Obama may have rambled a bit but his answer was truer to the question and really goes to the heart of the life he has lived and his understanding of the struggles of most americans. I just encourage people to read the QUESTION before evaluating if a response was appropriate.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Nelda Jean Maes — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:17:23 GMT

It is not about the voters and their openion. Its CNN. Hillary did excellent. Do you relize the big states that whe has won? If you think Obama can elect him self with the News Media, your wrong. He needs Hillarys supporters, But I tell you Alot of her supporters will remember the way she was treated by the News Media and we will not vote the way CNN and the rest of the News Media wants us to Vote we will Vote Republican if Obama gets the nominiation. We will remember and I will remind alot of Voters.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Nelda Jean Maes — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:18:42 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

KP — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:45:39 GMT

if Obama becomes the Democratic nominee, McCain will win ...I cant give my democratic vote to trainee.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

San Diego, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:47:52 GMT

It is soooo funny how the media and Obama supporters are constantly writing her obituary when he is barely ahead in delegates. Don't count her out yet, we still have Ohio, Texas, Pensylvania, possibly Florida and if the superdelegates are smart they will go with Clinton because she is favored by traditional democrats across the board.

BTW, I have to strongly disagree with this reporter, she did way better than Obama in the debate last night and people are starting to catch onto his celebrity endorsements, lack of experience, and shallow words!

Hillary 2008!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ann, Hohenwald, Tn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:51:41 GMT

Hillary did a great job at the debate. She did what she needed to do with finesse. By the way, has anyone read the Commentary on the 2008 Presidential primaries in THE CITY EDITION at TheCityEdition.com?
Very interesting piece on how the Republicans have organized in several states to throw their weight behind Barack Hussien. So, do all you that are voting for him think this is right to do this to the democratic party? I don't think so. If this is the way or you think this is the way, I will not be voting in November. This is a disgrace and I wonder why the true democrats can't see this. My only hope is that the TRUE superdelegates understand this and beat them at their own game. I'm fired up!!!!!!!!!

GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!!! I think you can still do it even with all this against you.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Ann, Hohenwald, Tn — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:52:01 GMT

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

San Diego, CA — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:52:42 GMT

BTW, can any of you Obama supporters comment about anything really spectacular that came out of him last night??? No, why? because even at his best, he is still a mediocre debater!!!

Hillary for President!!!!

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Jason DT -- Milford, Ma — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:22:38 GMT

These debates are getting redundant. What new ground can the news anchor "moderators" forge by going over the same thing debate after debate. The biggest news is that an Obama victory in November would be the start of an entirely new American story - something we've needed since Lincoln! That new story also includes the regaining of respect in the world community. I don't think Hillary really gets it - she's too caught up in her "makes a good fit" resume.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

T Terry — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:30:52 GMT

Before Obama came along I was a huge Clinton supporter. Before President Bill Clinton's second term I was a Republican (gulp).

The "change" as so many have pointed out is not simply that Americans like the flashy speeches of Obama, but not since Kennedy (and to some extent Bill Clinton, which is part of the reason I am now an independant that leans left) have people found a that inspires the population.

The movement that Obama speaks of is simply created from those people that see the Washington crew poll with very low approval ratings (yet if you look locally everyone is happy with their reps.), those that are there have been there and the same 50/50 government stands today (some people even call it Carl Rove politics, but it's both sides), and name any legislation that has created a positive overrun for this country for all Americans in the last 30 years.

Many call Barack Obama the most liberal senator, and yes I will agree, but if you Obama-niacs and Hillary-ites and even the McCain-iacs stop for a moment to pause and see the issues that Obama has laid forward for the fall it will make sense.

First, health care is, for Hillary, a government protecting its citizens. For McCain, it is giving tax breaks so that citizens can make it affordable. For Obama, he takes the best aspects of both and puts it together. Thus getting a majority of people to take a look at it. The plan calls for both aspects of each of the prior candidates without the extreme. HE IS NOT PLAYING THE GAME. He is making a concensus.

Foreign policy: McCain - Fight and no talking
Clinton - Fight and no talking
Obama - Fight and talking
Differneces are: Since when does not talking resolve anything.

Iraq: McCain - 100 years
Clinton - 60 days
Obama - even less, make the world stand up (see foreign policy)

Education: McCain - tax credit
Clinton - government subdies
Obama - both

The list goes on and on. So by default, who can get the biggest draw? The left, the right, or the one that creates concensus.

Good Luck Obama.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

dolphin,denver co — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 21:53:55 GMT

its a war between the words "change, yes we can"
and experience.by saying words change can mean a
lot of things. change can be permanent or temporary.
In real life issues, change or yes we can" cannot
solve problems. Only experience can bring change
in life.
if you are exposed to situation then you can
really see what differences you can make.its easy to
say "change or yes we can". MY case against it is
two folds.
I really admire MR BUSH for taking action against terrorist. He saw it and faced it the way
he and his advisors advised him. we are safe because
some good came out of it. It made us aware of how
complicated the world we live in.(WITH NUCLEAR WEAPONS). Inaction could cause lot of problems.
Mr obama was not exposed to it. so its easy
for him to be on sidelines and say i was not for
the war. If some one attacks your property you have
to take action, no one would help you.
We dont know how he would have handled this.
Words alone cannot solve the problems. you have to
be out there and confronting it.
To a point i agree with mrs Hillary. she voted
for it, with conditon that all the inspections are
done and legitimize this war.Atleast she had the guts
to vote. And she faced the issues. she was not wrong.
MR obama says he was not for it.Its easy to say
it if you are not facing it. Nuclear weapons can be
transported in a small suitcases, we all can be wiped
out. Its hard to find them. Mr saddam was a dictator,
with greed and power,he might have had it.Its good
we know now that he didnt have it.One less problem
to tackle. you have to find them, and see it does not
fall in wrong hands. Its like looking for a needle in
a haystack.
We have to be very careful who we elect since next wars will be nuclear. Please vote with
your heart and mind. we live in a very dangerous
world.

Initial thoughts: not a game-changer

Dorian Parker — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 22:08:09 GMT

Hillary's "xerox" comment was nothing short of sad, tired and boring. She really is just more of the same. Barack can attract swing voters like myself, Hillary can not.