First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Chuck, NY — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:29:07 GMT

Has Obama got his mojo back? I hope so. I am not sure he will win in PA, but Clinton is already declining. Can we be so lucky as to have this end after PA, and not wait until after IN-NC?

Welcome back Mark.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Jessica — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:38:35 GMT

I can already hear the HRC Penn and Wolfson Spin SHow.

It goes something like this:

"Well, it looks like to tides are turning You "predicted" a delegate gain of +9 and you are only getting +5 so I guess we got the MO. And don't forget caucuses "disenfranchise" voters, and by the way superdelegates, please, please, please go against this will of the voter and give this election to ME!"

Same Spin Different Day.

Can't wait to hear it.

OBAMA WON TEXAS!!!!!

Onwards to McSame.

Obama 08

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Ed Mc - Atlanta, GA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:40:02 GMT

As Barack's delegate lead continues to swell, Hillary has changed from the inevitable candidate to the irrelevant candidate. She doesn't need to drop out of the race; and Barack doesn't need to focus attention on her increasingly desperate and shrill message.

Barack should focus his attention on McCain and stop paying attention to the Clintons. He is only legitimizing the Clintons candidacy by addressing it.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

58, White, Female — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:42:24 GMT

She should just tie slick willy to the nearest fire hydrant,and she should take her daughter and leave. Clinton needs to clean house with a large broom, and start over. If she could learn a little diplomacy, and use less back door demand/threats, break ALL ties with the UNETHICAL, she might be able to win in 2016. But as she goes now she is just making sure that the democrats will not win the White House this year. Thus assuring that all of her/democrat promises will NOT happen. Even if she does care as she claims right now her credibility is shot.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

EARNIE PYLE — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:43:04 GMT

2ND. THOUGHT, MSNBC IS "BIAS".3RD. THOUGHT,STICK IT WHERE THE SUN DON'T SHINE.HAVE A NICE DAY.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Ann, NY NY — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:44:44 GMT

Ms. Clinton should show some respect for herself and her party and bow out of the race. She should realize that the American people have lost all trust in her ability to tell the truth. Her lies are insulting to the intelligence of the American people. Ms. Clinton is not entitled to become President of these United States because she was a first lady. She is not entitled as she would like us to think. We, as Americans, want a President we can believe and trust and that is not Hillary Clinton!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Diane from Illinois — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:45:14 GMT

I think even though as Obama supporters, we all know Hillary can't win, and would like to see her drop out, we have to be careful in our request. I don't want it to create such a backlash that she suddenly gains overwhelming support from Senior woman in the rest of the primaries. So, even though we'd like her gone, we have to be patient.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

LT, Tacoma, WA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:45:46 GMT

Obama wins Texas. http://www.burntorangereport.com/

YES WE CAN!!! Obama '08

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

the Pajama Pundit — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:46:41 GMT

I'm no fan of Hillary, but nobody should tell her to get out. She should bow out GRACEFULLY when she is ready.

My only concern for her is that if she waits too long it will continue to further damage her viability in future elections (for Senate or otherwise).

Though, I must admit that hearing so many Democratic big-wigs tell her to split does have a nice ring to it.

http://thepajamapundit.com/

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

JD — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:47:48 GMT

Good analogy with the baseball season and the candidates.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Boneheaded — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:47:52 GMT

Have you thought, Mr. Todd, that she simply wants to shut you up for your bias?

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Ann, 63 — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:49:28 GMT

Hillary is destroying the party's ability to win the White House! Enough of her. I wish she would just go away quitely. The Clintons are embarasing our Nation again!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Cory - Greenville, SC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:51:48 GMT

She should stay in as long as she wants, just like Obama said. I think Obama victory will be much sweeter, when the Clintons pull every single string they possibly can and still LOSE!!

http://www.politivine.com

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Sherri, Charleston WV — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:52:07 GMT

Did anyone see Bush go out to throw the first pitch of the Nats game last night? He was resoundingly and sustainably booed the second he hit the turf.....McCain, you'd better be paying attention.....

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Jim Luttrall Yantis Texas — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:52:53 GMT

Don't go counting your Texas chickens yet. It is really the Texas Four Step and step four comes in June in Austin.
Jim
Texas

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Lisa, New Britain, CT CT for Obama — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:56:32 GMT

OMG, I agree with Kristol...I was thinking that McCain has to get off merely relying on his military history. Like many, I respect him for it. But being President is about how you lead NOW. He has to link it to how it makes him a better President and he also has to show us what else gives him the potential to be a strong leader and great President for our times.

I hope he's not going to rest on his military experience for the months leading to Nov.

Hillary can stay or go, I honestly don't care anymore. I have gotten to that apathetic point with her. She not only has a finances problem and a superdelegate problem but I would argue she also has a running a bad campaign problem, a lying problem, a I'll win at all costs even if I destroy the party problem, and an I'm only in it for me problem. Not to mention, I have a lot of disdain for people in a lot of state's problem.

I find it ironic that the Clinton campaign makes such an inaccurate but big deal out of Obama disenfranchising people. That is the pot calling the kettle black. She has been marginalizing most of us for months (with her whole campaign tactics and not being prepared for a fight after Super Tuesday). She makes a big deal out of taking the race to the end. Yet she was happy to have it sewn up on Feb. 5th.

Just a tad inconsistent.

Obama, all the way to the White House 08

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

norman ravitch, savannah, ga — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:57:12 GMT

Enjoy the rivalry between Hillary and Barack while you can. Once the nominee is chosen the Republicans will decimate him/her. It won't be pretty. The GOP will revert to its Goebbels-like tactics of painting its opponents as unpatriotic, treasonous and subversive. Too bad for them the word Communist is no longer useful.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Bull the Dog — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:57:38 GMT

Chuck Todd,
You wrote an excellent article I read yesterday on why Hillary made the right decision to stay in the race. I agree with your points, and it makes a lot of sense now for superdelegates and others to stop calling for Hillary's exit from the race.
Also, I was researching the post titled "Fact check: Obama and oil" and found out that the money Obama received was not from oil and gas companies but from their employees just like other individual voters. It would be nice if you guys are more specific and careful with your reporting. Obama does take money from state lobbyists of any kind, but not federal ones that I am not able to find sources to back up. And his campaign has CEOs of state companies -- that is all I can find as facts.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

twocanpete — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:59:55 GMT

http://twocanpete.blogspot.com/
Don't underestimate Hillary, she is after all a combat veteran.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

wondering — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:00:26 GMT

Hey First Read,
Maybe I missed it, but why no talk about HRC campaign manager Maggie Williams and her involvement with sub-prime lending?

THIS should be NEWS

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

JohnnyU, WA State — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:01:28 GMT

Hillary has wound up covered in all the "stuff" she attempted to throw at Obama. (BTW, if Chelsea can be out there for her mom's campaign, its ridiculous to think she is immune to questioning.)
Hillary: redeem yourself by showing some class and respect and bow out!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

joseph sterling — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:01:39 GMT

Allow Hillary to run her race...I do believe Hillary wants to do a Tonya Harding/Knee Capping on Obama so he loses the GE; Bill virtually endorsed McCain this past weekend and HRC has claimed that she and the republican opponent are more ready on day 1 vs her democratic comrade Obama.

Speaking of Day 1. Let's not forget the blatant lie regarding Bosnia. I am still waiting to hear whether some of her other claims are Exxagerated as well ( i.e. asst in peace in Northern Ireland, Asst. in developing safe havens in Kosovo, etc.)

and what about those Tax Returns...how long does it take for HRC to provide returns from 2000-20006 as Obama has?

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Kathy Palm Bay FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:02:20 GMT

You think this country is in bad shape now, if (and I mean a big IF) Obama beats McCann we will be in the worse shape since the Great Depression. Clinton is the only canidate who can get us out of this funk.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:02:40 GMT

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Scott — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:03:22 GMT

The story about Clinton stiffing the small businesses who provided her campaign with services in previous states should be headline news; it's outrageous.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Alise, PA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:05:30 GMT

Obama is afraid Hillary staying in will hurt his chances in Nov?? ha!
If Obama can't handle Hillary - he sure wouldn't be able to handle McCain and the GOP 527s going after him 24/7.

Obama is a very weak and vulnerable candidate.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

joan chicago il — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:07:00 GMT

Why She Should GO? why? Only mediocre people give up. WHy it has to be Hillary? he can go too, dont you think?
NO one of them have enough delegate to win the nomination, beside, he is ahead only because MI and FL, which I dont think is fear for a group of idiots to be asking Hillary to leave the race.
IN LIFE YOU NEEDD TO FIGHT AND BE CONSISTENT IF YOU WANT TO GET SOMETHING... SORRY, SHE SHOULD STAY

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Margaret, NYC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:07:27 GMT

Obama was the first to play the Race Card --

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/opinion/17133626.html

This was well known by Edwards supporters.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

STOP MOVING THE DAMN GOAL POSTS — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:08:52 GMT

Wait hang on? Why stop at the Texas four Step. Lets move it to the Texas Five Step. Actually lets go back to every state once again and tell them all to re-vote again. Except only people who voted for Clinton are allowed to vote this time! Wow, that would break down 85% to 15%. And for those of you that can't understand this I'm saying that of all of the people that voted for Clinton in this primary season 15% wouldn't vote for her again....

STOP MOVING THE DAMN GOAL POSTS!!! STAND FIRM ONCE IN YOU'RE LIFE

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

joan chicago il — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:09:27 GMT

"what about those Tax Returns...how long does it take for HRC to provide returns from 2000-20006 as Obama has? "

joseph sterling one question for you, where in the law sadi that people need to disclose their taxes returns? it is up to her, SHE DOESNT HAVE TODO THAT DUDE... GET your fact clear before demanding things.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

moya chaambwa — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:10:04 GMT

i think this is the time to put in use that ticket she was suggesting not so long ago. the way things are going, if by any magic she beats obama the same magic wont work againgst mcCain. if i were her, i wouuld just support my party and in her best interest would be running for vice president.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Pat, Boston, MA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:12:14 GMT

I agree with those who believe Hillary Clinton staying in the campaign has made Barack Obama a tougher, better candidate.

He's looking more presidential each and every day. This hasn't been easy for him - nor should it have been.

Chuck Todd made an interesting comment on Washington Journal/C-Span - on Sunday morning -

Hillary Clinton won't campaign for Barack Obama once the primaries are over -

but Bill Clinton will.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

bc Indiana — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:12:47 GMT

I agree with Obama. Clinton's on the ballot and can run if she likes.

Bur what is readily apparent from her campaign's thinly veiled attempts to bully super delegates is that she's willing to do whatever it takes to win; even at the expense of the Democratic Party.

It looks more and more like if she can't have it no one can...

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Kym — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:13:39 GMT

I felt bad that Sheila Jackson Lee got booed by her constituents on Saturday. That had to hurt, her political career is really in jeopardy!! People did not boo her b/c of her support for Clinton, it is her tactics she used AGAINST Obama!!

Obama 08

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

JP Homestead, FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:13:46 GMT

Anybody who has any doubts about Hillary being not being able to win needs to read the following article. This speaks the truth:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/chip-collis/top-10-myths-keeping-hill_b_94207.html

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

jill, ny — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:15:54 GMT

First the Clinton campaign says that they'll wait until June to see how the remaining states vote. Now, Hillary Clinton seems to say that the outcome of these races matter little, because she's now hitched her fate on what's going to happen with the Florida and Michigan--issues for which there still seems to be no compromise solution in sight. In effect, she is also rejecting the superdelegate pre-convention meeting, being proposed in June.

Clinton keeps raising the ante, and is threatening to bring the fight all the way to the national convention. This would give the Democratic Party only two months to unite behind a candidate AND win the November presidential elections. Clinton's defiance is beginning to sound like, "if I am going down, I am bringing everybody else down with me!"

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Kathy, Tampa FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:16:21 GMT

The Obama camp and his fellow politicians like the NC congressional delegation do not want to count FL and MI or let the people of North Carolina decide - Yet Barack Obama declares that he is the people’s candidate, a populist advocate of democratic principles. Senator Obama’s entire campaign is based on change from the bottom up, a revolution by the people to bring reform to a corrupt political system. The Senators followers believe he is a candidate uncorrupted by the current evil of Washington. Yet Senator Obamas and his supporters have been a major obstacle for a revote in Florida and Michigan. Not counting the peoples vote in Florida and Michigan is against every democratic principle and thus Senator Obamas whole premise.
Do not let the NC congressional delegation decide the Democratic candidate.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

White, 56, mom — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:17:15 GMT

Can democratic party really afford lack of resolution on a nominee over the next 6-8 weeks. Yes, everyone needs to feel their vote counts over the next 8 primaries, but might this dilute the overall efforts to regain the White House in '08. McCain is already campaigning agaist dems but dems just campaign against dems eroding the overall big picture focus needed to WIN in Nov. It may also be time to seriously begin discussions of Obama running mates.....very seriously.
Obama '08!!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

CitizenJ — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:18:06 GMT

Nope! ain't gonna happen. MSNBC and NBC will continue concealing negative info about Obama.

Margaret, NYC (Sent Monday, March 31, 2008 10:02 AM)

There is a First Read thread on it already.

Don't take your laziness out on the rest of us.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

g.eglesias``nepa~` — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:19:43 GMT

Hillary should stay. Pa and all those other states should have the right to vote. And most certainally Florida and Michigan should be counted. If they allow all the voters to be counted, that could change everything. Thats what the Obama people are afraid of.

florida

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:20:33 GMT

Perhaps the real driving factor will be money. She has mounting unpaid campaign debts, and I don't think she's raising money fast enough to make those growing debts seem trivial. Plus, word is out among vendors who cater to political campaigns - get cash up front from this one.

I'm thinking the financial picture might be what drives the date. When they simply can't compete anymore, she'll drop.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

M. Cardenas — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:22:45 GMT

MSNBC reports "bias" news. It is their perogative to report what they want...but they are as responsible for the shape of this country as Bush. If you don't report the facts to readers "minus" favoritism, then you are misleading the nation. If MSNBC touts themselves as the best in providing information, then it should be just that...information. Not bias information. It is so obvious that Obama is their choice. How else do you explain the few days light was shed on Pastor Wright's controversial sermons? Now, Hillary's statement about arriving in Bosnia amid gunfire is a huge story. You know what? If I had to compare the two...and decide which was more crucial...well, I don't think I'll give MSNBC the answer. Get your investigative reporters on the trail, get your scale out...and weigh the difference. I'm sure you'll come up with the magnificent speech by Obama, and how it cleared his name. I'm not a journalist, but come on...what did you expect the man to say? Stephen King is a great writer...he can write things that make you believe what you're reading. Writers do that because they can. It doesn't necessarily mean what you're reading or hearing is actually happening. But hey, MSNBC can see right through everything...right? At least Anderson isn't afraid to confront situations straight on...

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

RC, Ocala, FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:24:25 GMT

Barak Obama was so magnanamous, allowing Clinton to continue in the race.

There goes the Rich White Media again, pushing the sails on Obama's back.

But guess what, the rich white media can take the RISK with OBAMA. US working class folks cannot take the risk. We don't know who Obama is.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Gerald, Texas — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:25:03 GMT

The Clinton's actions clearly show that they are "on the ropes". Hillary has claimed to be for the "Little Guy", but has not paid some of her most ardent Supporters - Ohioans! Iowans have also not been paid and both are a shame.

Given the constant state of Financial Disarray of the Clinton campaign, how can we be even remotely confident that she can successfully manage the Federal Budget? Likewise, the Clintons are again showing themselves to be "Users", by not honoring their commitments and leaving the "Working Class" she claims to support in a lurch.

The 3am Phone Calls must have been Debt Collectors!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Banko — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:26:22 GMT

ackson-Lee's support of Clinton putting her at odds with her constituents.
http://www.khou.com/video/news-index.html?nvid=231342

March 29th, 2008A majority of the crowd at the local Democratic convention showed its support for Barack Obama by shouting his name and booing the congresswoman, letting her know what ..

Sheila Jackson Lee booed at Democratic convention.
http://www.khou.com/video/news-index.html?nvid=231349
March 29th, 2008Raw video of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee's speech at a local Democratic senatorial district convention in Houston Saturday in which she was booed by the crowd, many of whom are in her district. Her speech was interrupted a couple of times as the crowd voiced its displeasure with her backing Hillary Clinton over Barack Obama.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

christian — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:26:50 GMT

joan chicago,

no idiot... he would still be in the lead even with FL & MI. THAT is what is embarassing for Clinton.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

RC, Ocala, FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:27:08 GMT

I hope that the North Carolina Congregional Delegation move, IF TRUE, will bite them in their Arses.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

McCain 08 — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:27:17 GMT

"Instead, they rejected four veterans who served in wartime (and who also had considerable experience in public life) for Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, who had lesser résumés, both civilian and military."

And look what they got for it... 8 years of military mismanagement and multiple scandals under Clinton followed by the Iraq administration, need I say more?

Isn't time we LEARNED FROM OUR MISTAKES in not choosing the better resume?

24 years making laws in the House and then the Senate, plus 22 years of EXCELLENT military service, compared to what? Words? Come on, now.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

John Brannen Charlotte, NC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:28:46 GMT

Anyone who cannot see through Hillary Clinton and her vindictive conniving ways cannot see. Her self appointed, knows better than anyone,lying cheating, you owe me the presidency is self defeating. Let her go, perhaps she will further damage herself along with her party and leave Old Mac to win the mess.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

CB, Crestview, Florida — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:28:51 GMT

Hillary should stop her race for the nomination! Rumors that Hillary Clinton's cash-strapped presidential campaign has been putting off paying hundreds of bills for months — freeing up cash for critical media buys but also earning the campaign a reputation as something of a deadbeat in some small-business circles. If true, Shame on you Hillary! I bet Peter Paul could have warned those people in advance! This website has info on Hillary's lack of paying the bills her campaign has generated. Leaving the little guy holding the bill, how's that a good thing? http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0308/9259.html

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Just jerry Sioux City Iowa — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:30:36 GMT

Funny how anti- beltway candidate for change is really the consummate beltway insider - all show no go. The people of Mass. figured this out quickly, pundits and reporters, of course, are ultimate insiders themselves, so they do the bidding of the insiders.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

James Lawton. OK — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:32:06 GMT

kathy palm bay florida: what facts lead you to believe that we will be in worst shape if obama wins the general election, because as far as i can see either one of the dem candidates will be a big improvement on what GWB is doing to the econony.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

balthus, Raleigh, NC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:32:14 GMT

A scorpion stepped to the bank of a river, where a big bullfrog was happily swimming about.

"Hey bullfrog," said the scorpion, "I must cross the river, yet I cannot swim. Please allow me to ride on your back, and ferry me across."
"If I carry you on my back, you will sting me before we cross" responded the bullfrog.
"If I sting you, we will both drown," the scorpion pleaded, "so you can be sure I won't do that."

The bullfrog considered for a moment what the scorpion had said, and relented. The scorpion climbed onto the bullfrog's back, and they headed out into the river.

Halfway across, the scorpion stung the bullfrog.

As both slowly sank below the water, certain to die, the bullfrog croaked, "Why did you do that, scorpion? You knew it meant death for you as well as for me!"
"Because I am a scorpion" responded the scorpion, before sinking to his death.

A bit of Middle Eastern wisdom. Moral: don't expect Hillary's campaign style to change - as some here have suggested she do - anytime soon!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Don, Mason, Texas — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:32:17 GMT

Jim Luntrall,

Stick a fork in it, it's done.

The State delegates to the Texas Democratic State Convention, although not legally bound, will vote as they have been instructed by the County Caucus delegates. The Counties are sure to send committed individuals as State delegates and alternates. WHether they support Clinton or Obama, they are not likely to be swayed.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

ivy — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:35:47 GMT

Hillary should stay in the race so that every Democrat has the opportunity to cast their ballot. She will for sure win PA, and if Florida and Michigan are counted, and Puerto Rico goes for her, which they are likely to do, she stands a chance, depending on the margins in the other upcoming states, to severly narrow Obama's lead, if not move ahead.

Obama is all talk and no substance - no experience, he hoodwinked the Canadians about Nafta, he lied about never having heard his racist pastor Wright for twenty years go on a tirade (who's he kidding?) - and McCain and the republicans will pummel him in the national election. They will scream lack of experience, they will raise the Rezko deal to the roof, they will show him as all oratory and no specifics and the republics will keep the white house.

Hillary is the only candidate who can stand up to McCain. Don't you all remember the peace and prosperity under Bill Clinton? With Hillary, it will be more prosperity, more security, people will be able to afford college and health care costs agaiin.

Vote Hillary.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Cindy Lou — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:36:19 GMT

I'm not a Hillary supporter, but I don't think Hillary should drop out now. There are only 10 states/territories left, and we'll be done with this marathon in about two months. We can all hang in there a little while longer.

THEN, the superdelegates should get together right away and decide who gets the Democratic nomination, NOT wait until August. An "early" decision will allow the Democratic nominee to regroup in time for the general election. I only hope the DNC leadership, which has been weak until now, will finally rise to the occasion and wrap this up in a timely fashion. DNC leaders need to stand up to the Clinton machine for the sake of the party.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Jerry S. Oakland, CA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:37:04 GMT

Hillary is a combat veteran? Can anyone clarify this claim? A Google on her military experience comes up with a site saying that Bill Clinton did nothing to prevent terrorism before he left office despite accountable intelligence reports.
My guess is that with all the debunked myths on the Clintons, they only meant to win for their own sake and to cap their political career with the presidency with little regard for accomplishing major national goals like economic and healthcare reforms. The Clintons are really hungry for another Clinton Administration. For them, wielding power is fun and rewarding.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Bonnie Crawford — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:37:22 GMT

Senator Obama called for party unity yesterday in his speech, and said that Senator Clinton should stay in the race as long as she likes. The main thing is that voters are engaged in the political process and learning more than ever about how democracy works. I am proud of Senator Obama as my candidate of choice. He didn't bash Senator Clinton like she has done him in many instances. He spoke well and with respect of Senator McCain also. I heard his speech on the economy about regulating financial institutions, and its funny how the Bush administration has started to put some of those points into reality. He as a special gift of inspiring ordinary people to believe in themselves and do extraordinary things. We have long needed a leader with that ability. Our country is stuck in the mud, it will take all of us to get it moving again. Obama 08

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Bob Virginia — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:37:29 GMT

There is no mystery as to why HRC is calling the media to assure everyone that she is staying in. I am surprised that you are wondering and speculating.
It is simple: Today she reports her March funds and balance. It ain't gonna be pretty, and will clearly raise the question of viability.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Michael, Miami Beach, FL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:40:14 GMT

Can someone explain to me how the Texas system is fair? Hillary Clinton won by over 100k votes, but obama will net 5 more delegates. This sounds crazy too me. If this was Hillary Clinton claiming 5 delegates the title of this story would be "Hillary looking to turn delegates towards her". There is such bias in the media that I can't believe anything anymore. I can't wait until the voters have their say again, and these headline hunting pundits can't predict they just have to report. This is getting out of control. I hope people are smarting than to believe all of this nonsense.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Lyn, MD — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:40:38 GMT

For the poster who wrote that this country would be worse off if Obama beats McCain, in case you haven't already noticed, we are already pretty much at rock bottom with George Bush and company. With McCain we would go even lower, with a war in Iran, and Hillary would be too busy paying back all the debts she rang up with those she bartered with for their support. Therefore, there is no place else to go but up, with Barack at the helm.

For the poster who wrote that McCain would decimate the democrat's nominee, I seriously doubt that, and so do you. McCain has shown himself to be uninformed, disoriented, out of touch with reality, and a half step above George W. Bush.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

obie, burtrum, mn — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:41:52 GMT

In the last week, the polls have broken decidedly toward Obama. Gallup daily tracking had him up ten points yesterday, his largest margin to date in that poll.

It will be curious to watch PA polling this week. My guess is that Clinton's lead has dwindled considerably from the 16-22 points of just a week or two ago.

http://www.realclearpolitics.com/epolls/2008/latestpolls/index.html

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Deb, Boston, MA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:42:06 GMT

People. Its simple. There is no reason for Hillary Clinton to leave. The ad hominem attacks and the chicken little "the sky is falling on the party" rhetoric from the media and the Obama supporters ignores these three very simple facts: 1) On the delegate race, the RULES that everyone likes to quote- state that whomever gets to 2024 wins and NOT he who LEADS in delegates (by the thinnest margin in history) wins; because neither of them will get to 2024, then we have a race only the supers can decide and they have NOT decided yet; 2) it is looking at least plausible, and some would say likely, that Hillary Clinton will finish the primary season with a LEAD IN THE POPULAR VOTE; to the extent such a lead is relevant to the will of the people (another oft spoken mantra of the media and the Obama supporters), the supers will likely consider that as one aspect in determining who should be the nominee; and 3) if HRC is forced out now, without a revote of HRC friendly and key dem states (PA and MI) it will seem to many of her supporters as though the party - and particularly men, have closed ranks around Senator Obama. This will have a deeply detrimental effect on Obama's ability to beat McCain -- IF you don't think the party is worried about that, you are not thinking this through. The best thing for the party and for each of these candidates is to allow the process to continue. I agree with Bill on this one.. Everyone needs to chill out and listen.... Turn down the noise and decide on the merits, not on the punditry...

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Eleanor Schlapfer, Medford, Or. — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:42:47 GMT

I just don't "get it". It seems like so many people are jumping on this Obama bandwagon and "believing" in platitudues. All of his promises are deals that are going to take cONSIDERABLE acts of congress and he has not got the where-with-all to get them passed. I do not see how his presidency will be a great success.Please save us from ourselves.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

gmhussein, jupiter, fl — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:42:57 GMT

Drip, Drip, Drip, slowly the superdelgates are going to Obama.

Lisa, I'm with you, I dont care if she goes or stays to the end, all she is doing is wearing out her welcome playing the victim. The big boys are bullying me yada yada. Does she ever take a hard look at herself and her campaign and see how they do things wrong. Its always someone else's fault.

Go Obama 08

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

BC,Idaho — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:43:00 GMT

JohnnyU- You said "Hillary has wound up coverd in all the stuff she attempted to through at Obama"

There is a Biblical priciple for that: GOD is not mocked, whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Carrie, Elkridge, MD — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:43:01 GMT

Alise - Obama said Hillary should stay in the race as long as she wants to and as long as her supporters will support her. That's a position of strength, not weakness.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Donna Millbrook, AL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:43:18 GMT

Obama supporters seem really frantic about Senator Clinton remaining in the race? Do they fear America will learn actually who this person is? Are they afraid of what may come out next? Will it be about Obama, Michelle or his indicted friends? Stay tuned!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Candi, South Carolina — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:44:55 GMT

If Hillary doen't pay her bills she will not be able to campaign long. I don't understand why Hillary has stiffed her rent bills and caters. At least someone has a heart to take her money they had received from over due rent and give it to Obama campaign. Read the ticker on how Clinton can't pay her bills. Very impressive.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Dolores Fleming — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:45:06 GMT

Obam in the white house will be on the job training.We alredy have one on the job training BUSH.It will be 8 years soon and he still isn't trained.His trainer is running the country.Hillary will win because she will get the womans vote.The men do not want a woman running this country.We need the change.The last 8 years of men running this country have been a disaster.Obama hasn't been up in Washington only a couple years and he thinks he can run this country.He has nothing behind him.No experience only talk.He talks like he is talking to a jury as he is a trial lawyer.He even has said that he never got into Washington but he knew it needed a change.How would he know it needed a change if he never got into Washington.You know Hillary came in third place in the Iowa caucas and an eldery man has said that he has been through many Iowa cacus and the one in third place won the Presidency.I do not believe with all the racisim in this country that the White House will ever be a BLACK House.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

j Mccarthy — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:45:54 GMT

Note the gender of the media's overwhelming "why doesn't she leave the race?" Boiled down, the specific criticism is a) her married name b) her insistence on dealing with platform issues and not making nice lady-like deferential nods to any of the guys c) her memory (let's compare the others: is it possible that some of the pre-travel background included warnings of potential sniper fire while she visited sensitive areas?)...her purpose was not to shop for shoes or run for president then; it was to observe and act on the results of information gained. Not a vacation, certainly! d) funding from unsavory sorts...again, look what's done about it & give that credit. All candidates have that opportunity to accept, reject, disavow, re-direct...

You can elect an entertainer; a warrior; or a highly intelligent and effective, competent human. I hope to have the opportunity when the howling packs finish, to elect the latter, Hillary (ignore her dad's last name or her husband's).

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Dan, Rhode Island — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:46:44 GMT

51% of Clinton's supporters will be voting for McCain in the general election - does it really matter in the end.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Jon - Raleigh, NC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:47:17 GMT

Should MSNBC report Washington Post info that Obama LIED about his father's connection to the Kennedy family??
Hmmm....

http://www.talkleft.com/story/2008/3/30/13655/6958

Nope! ain't gonna happen. MSNBC and NBC will continue concealing negative info about Obama.

Margaret, NYC (Sent Monday, March 31, 2008 10:02 AM)

Please Margaret, let's get real here. I was held up at gunpoint in a bank and remember it like it happened yesterday. If Hillary Clinton had come under sniper fire, she would have remembered it the same way. It's scary when you are faced with possible death. To compare Barack Obama's story to this is ridiculous. She flat out lied about an incident that she was directly involved in. Barack Obama got his facts wrong. One might say it was an honest mistake, but her story was told multiple (I think the count is up to 5) times. If Sinbad remebered exactly what happened, why didn't Hillary? Maybe she remembers paying all of her campaign debts too. Or did she make a mistake about that one too?

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Pauline, Champaign, IL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:50:16 GMT

It is so clear Obama can not win the general election, especially with the recent revelations coming about Reverend Wright. You can be sure there are more "secrets" to come out. The only way the Dems can win in November is with a Clinton/Obama ticket. Can't anyone talk sense into Obama's arrogant, chauvinistic brain? Without Clinton, Obama will lose white women's votes and working class/poor white votes, and that means he will lose to McCain. Get a grip people: only a 100 or so delegates separate them and a handful of popular votes with many more states waiting to weigh in! Obama and Clinton are roughly at parity so why is she being pressured to drop out? SEXISM!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

squintz, philly, pa — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:50:28 GMT

I cannot understand the argument that no Vietnam veteran will ever be President. Isn't McCain on the older side of Vietnam veterans? Aren't there vets in their early 60's or late 50's at this point? It is conceivable that some veteran somewhere could run in the future, just perhaps not any famous ones like McCain or Kerry. Am I missing something? Haven't there been other wars where no veteran has been elected President? Todd brought this up yesterday on CSPAN (PS - that was fantastic when that lady called from Missouri and chewed you two out!) and I was confused then too.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

RAJ — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:50:29 GMT

She's starting to implode and it may be interesting to see. Let's let her stay in and watch the mess as it happens.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Matt, Washington, DC — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:51:27 GMT

OBAMA/ZIMMERMAN '08!!!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

mary westerminstermd — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:52:37 GMT

notice how msnbc the station that suucks only posts things against senator clinton. ell wake up and smell the coffe folks oabmawill never be president and polls mean s. you wont find msnbc posting this because it dosn,t support there preacher who is a lair and raceiest.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

David Roushia, Muncie, IN — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:54:58 GMT

Are the Democrats suffering from amnesia or are they obstinent in their insistence to be very liberal?
In 1992 Bill Clinton emerged from virtually nowhere and swept away the supposed contenders to win the nomination and eventually the presidency for two terms. He did this simply by running on a centrist platfrom that appealed to both Democrats and Republicans. This rankled a lot of feathers amongst the party faithful who, to this day, continue to embrace a far left liberal agenda.

If Al Gore had trusted in the masterful platform Clinton adopted, he would have easily defeated George Bush. Even running as a labeled Liberal he nearly pulled it off against the most incompetent President we've ever had. Then in 2004, with Clinton farther removed from the process by jealous and egotistical Democrats, they put up their own dupe in John Kerry. They seemed determined to prove Clinton wrong by trying to get a far left liberal into the White House. We all know that that only gave us four more years of Bush.

It's now 2008 and the Democrats are up to their same old tricks. They are parading Barack Obama around as their great hope while the voting records indicate he's just another far left liberal and the next Democrat the party can use against the Clintons. I'm not saying that John McCain will win but he is a true centrist and Obama is not.

Hillary's senate record is never touted but it clearly indicates a politician far from the liberal the Republicans labeled her initally when she threw her hat in the presidential ring. You don't hear much of it anymore because the democratic party has jumped on the Obama bandwagon and Hillary is being dismissed as an annoying pest.

With 28% of Clinton supporters leaning toward McCain if Obama is the Democratic choice, it seems apparent that many real americans know the truth. They are not the racist lunatic fringe the media has labeled them.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

M.B. Virginia — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 14:56:27 GMT

The campain to push Hillary out of the race is showing the Obama desesperation on the prospect of having to show his qualification to be president. Lets be real, lots of platitudes, big smile and no substance. I he can't stand the long campain we don't need a smat kit with no real experience.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Mar Gar — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:10:53 GMT

Hillary will stay in till the convention and that is when these super delegates will have their eyes opened. She is their only weopon for the Dems to beat McCain. Obama cannot, NO-WAY win the general election. He brought race into this and the whites are dropping off his band wagon like flies. He is history and running scared. His supporters are running scared too. They pray on their knees every night for Hillary to drop out because that is the only way they can get to the general.
Hang in there Hillary, every day you get more and more support!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Misspeaking by Clinton = Lying — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:16:21 GMT

Senator Clinton is so conniving. "The big boys are bullying me??????"

Newsflash to Senator Clinton: YOU are the establishment candidate. If the establishment is even turning on you, that might be a sign. Stay in as long as you want but how about showing a bit of dignity. You NEVER admit you're wrong or that you've done anything wrong.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Jennie — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:31:16 GMT

I believe that Hillary should stay. This decision can only be made by her. Stop calling for her to get out. It's funny - the media keeps referring to her staying because there may be a bigger controversy against Obama than the Wright mess. What about a LIE bigger than Bosnia; or upcoming lawsuits; or Canadians making public the results of NAFTA contact. I respect HRC tremendously but have lost all respect for Fair and Balance coverage from MSNBC - especially Morning Joe - whose borderline Fox News. Not to mention the racial arsenist Pat Buchanan.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

MAC, STL — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:34:50 GMT

HRC should stay in the race to her heart's content. What she should not do is distort reality: 1) Obama is not the cause of FLa and MI not being counting; 2) Obama is AHEAD; 3) TX at the end of the day is in Obama's coluumn; 4) Obam's endorsement are just as sacred as hers - she cannot have it both ways - change her negativity> Her supporters should argue aggressively in her behalf just like Obama's should do for him - what is sickening is the name calling - the dirty politics of it all.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Kathy Orlando Burlington,Kansas — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:36:30 GMT

Hillary should stay in the race for she is a much better canidate then Oboma.She might have mispoke in the past but who hasn't. As for Obama, he is a liar and a disgrace for our country. He is getting caught on all his past and it isn't rosy. Any one who sits in his church for 20 years and doesn't listen to sermon and doesn't hear!!!!surely won't listen to all the American people. He is the biggest RACIST I have ever heard of and we donot need this in our society.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Nancy, Wellesley and New Britain — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 15:56:14 GMT

It would be one thing if HIllary was fighting some great crusade for some issue, but no she is just fighting to get what she thinks in her entitlement. Hence the bad smell coming from the race going forward. From here we are likely to see more of the slow bleed of superdelegates to Obama as the concensus becomes its time to stop pandering to Clinton's entitlement issues and to start getting a grip on what is needed for November. She is sucking the air out of everything she touches.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

shirley, san jose, ca — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:03:49 GMT

Hillary should stay in this race or she will claim she was robbed of the nomination. Hillary needs to be forced to release her 2000 thru 2006 tax returns, she is waiting to release her 'cleaned up' 2007 return and then will claim she is 'transparent'. The Clinton's have had many financial scandals thoughout the years, voter's have a right to see her financial history.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Mark in IN — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:12:48 GMT

Clinton must be the only person I know who can continually take bad news (for her campaign) and make it sound like good news. Hmmm... is this just in her nature to LIE??? I understand why SHE doesn't want to quit, but why does her PARTY not make her get out of the race??? It's so funny to hear folks on TV talk about her chances. Come on, do the math folks! She's toast, and the sooner she gets out the better for the Dems. Hil - it's true - we don't like you! Now get lost. Oh, and take what's-his-name with you!

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Ted, Redmond, Oregon — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:13:50 GMT

Let Hillary go the distance. When she loses, the Obama victory will be much more satisfying and it will rob her (and her supporters) of any arguments that she was robbed. I think it would be especially sweet if Barack collected enough delegates, popular votes, and switching super delegates in PA.,NC, and IND to put him in a position to say, "Ok, Hillary, you can have the Michigan and Florida results you keep harping about because it won't change anything." He looks magnanimous and she is completely squelched along with hubby Bill and pit bull Carville. Let's let Barack do this his way. He hasn't disappointed us yet.

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

Mike Dublin CA — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:18:35 GMT

She will win PA by about 10%, lose NC by 20% and it will be very close in Ind, likely a popular vote win for her by a delagate loss to push for her. at that point, Obama could give her Mi and Fla and still win

Has Obama done anything that makes one overturn the will of the voters? Something about consent of the governed? If Hillary was ahead, has she done anything to give it to Obama? The answer is no.

It will take awhile to play out the string but it will play out. Hopefully, she can give up gracefully..no doubt he would

First thoughts: Should she stay or go?

jay chicago il — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:19:10 GMT

The only reason why Obama is where he is today is BECASUE MSNBC and AA. Obama is not goign to win in november, and I hope that AMerican people dont act in the stupid way they act when BUSH. iti s time to stop been emotional adn use the capacity we have to think n dont let the media to choose for us.
Obama is not anything but a good speaker.

SHE SHOULD STAY.... AND OBAMA AND HIS SUPPORTERs WANT HER TO LEAVE BECAuSE THEY ARE AFRAID OF HER AND they are afraid that when more information about who Obama really is get to the American people, there is not more chance to choose different one. so, she should stay... I just hope that the media really bring all that information out to the public, so we can see who Obama really is, an untiamerican