Obama, Clinton claim momentum
Now, the shoe's on the other foot.
In the wake of Hillary Clinton's unexpected comeback win in New Hampshire, Barack Obama's campaign is the one today citing poll numbers, endorsements, and numbers of volunteers to buck up the troops and spin the media.
In "Daily Talking Points" obtained by The Page, Time magazine's political website, Obama's campaign argues that it is in the strongest position in Nevada, where Democrats caucus on Jan. 19 and where the state chapter of the powerful Service Employees International Union endorsed him this morning.
It also says Obama has the support of black voters in South Carolina, which votes Jan. 26, and has "the best field operation in the history of the state."
And the memo says that Obama has a "huge head start" in the 22 states that vote in the Feb. 5 mega-primary, noting that six of them are holding caucuses like Iowa, which rewards enthusiasm by supporters.
"Barack Obama is our party's best chance of winning in November," the memo says.
Clinton's campaign issued its own rosy-scenario memo, claiming strength in Nevada, South Carolina, and Feb. 5 states such as California.
"Momentum is clearly in our side," said Clinton national campaign Chairman Terry McAuliffe. "Voters across the country are going to see what New Hampshire voters saw.



We have staked the whole future of American civilization, not upon the power of government, far from it. We have staked the future of all our political institutions upon the capacity of mankind for self-government; upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to The Ten Commandments of God.
James Madison
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Obama cannot win in November; he just cannot and no oration, no matter how well delivered, will carry him in a general election. Hillary has the fire power with her experience and connections that she will use to get things done. America is ready for a woman President. If the Democrats want to win in November, their best shot is with Senator Clinton. I'd suggest that she use the tag line "Tell those Republicans in Washington that this woman is going to clean house in more ways than one!"
It was a close call in the New Hamphshire primary, and Obama still has a good probability of winniny g the candidacy of the Democrats and the Presidency as well. Time for change has come in America, and this turning point will have great implications on the country's future.
Type your comment here...If Hillary gets the nomination it will mean that Democrats have decided to look back to the last century for success rather than forward to the future, counter, I think, to the American spirit.
It was a close call in the New Hamphshire primary, and Obama still has a good probability of winniny g the candidacy of the Democrats and the Presidency as well. Time for change has come in America, and this turning point will have great implications on the country's future.
America is ready for a GOOD President - not another DIVISIVE President.
Obama '08
How will Hillary possibly win in November when she can't win over the independents?
Hilary won't get any Republican or Independent votes, how can she win in November?
The problem with Hilary is, she unites the Republican base, a quarter of democrats dont like her and independents are turned off by her. If she runs against McCain, her experience would be useless. If she runs against Huckabee, she would be looked upon as a divider, while he runs a unified campaign. The only person she can beat is Guiliani and he has no hopes of winning
Win the battle, loose the War: Outrage on Black Radio suggest African-Americans are fleeing from the Clintons in droves disgusted by their race-baiting comments about Obama/MLK. She'll get stomped in SC! Also, SEIU endorsement will sway NV for the only real 'Change Candidate." And, Oh what is this? Obama still leads in delegates 25-24. Great start to this election process...poised for History! Stay POSITIVE everyone - We've only just begun!
Listen to Obama's morning NPR interview: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17953420
Out of the top 3 candidates Clinton is least likely to beat top Republicans. Obama, according to a Zogby poll was the only Democrat to beat all top 5 Republicans.
If you want a Democrat in the whitehouse you have no other choice but to vote Obama. A vote for Clinton is purely symbolic. It will not be effective in winning the whitehouse.
Mr. Carroll, that's quite a defeatist attitude you have. The problem with your "lesser of two evils" approach is that it assumes Senator Clinton will actually represent Democratic voters. She may, but look at the what the '06 majority Democratic congress has given its party so far: More Iraq funding not linked to troop withdrawals, a stronger Patriot act, and no measures to block CIA "interrogation techniques." Is that really any different than having a GOP majority?
Senator Obama isn't just saying the country needs change, he's saying his own party does too.
Absolutely disagree with the previous comment….!!!!
Obama showed that He is about to “Change “ things around even with his own parties.
Mrs. Clinton She is pathetic with all the accusatory comments against this young man.
According to the reviews, we have here material to confirm a sense of this woman that already turns so many off. Cold, ruthless, manipulative, dishonest. And, for the more ideologically inclined, Buchanan's portrayal reveals a hard core left winger dressed up as a moderate for public consumption.
But, look, this is a free country and Americans are an open and forgiving people.
The issue is who is a person -- a candidate -- today. And the fact is that candidate Clinton is quite forthcoming about who she is. It's what I see and hear today that turns me and so many others so profoundly off.
Believe me Clinton’s are still engage with OLD Politicians and Corporate Empire to run the ’Circus”, and pathetic OLD government with…..Money….!!!!
The Senator was in true form the other day, speaking at a vocational school in New Hampshire.
"Fairness doesn't just happen. It requires the right government policies."
I don't think that Senator Clinton really got the message when the Berlin Wall came down and the Soviet Union collapsed.
The Clinton campaign is, not surprisingly, dismissing the new books about their candidate as ho-hum, and not bringing any new information to the table.
And I think they must be right. Americans are getting a pretty good sense of this woman just by listening to her.
Senator Clinton's negative ratings have been rising since her campaign began. Before she started, she logged in at 58 percent positive and 40 percent negative according to Gallup.
In the most recent Gallup poll, she came in at 45 percent positive and 51 percent negative.
She will be not reelected in SC, or neither Nevada because the young people are going to make this “Change” a reality.
NH is (((one state))) and all those swing vote went to senator John McCain
NOT to Hillary…!!!
As an Irishman watching the primaries closely from home, I cannot stress enough how this election effects the whole world. The government of the past eight years has not lent itself to being the most popular nation. That is why, for the sake of the world there needs to be a change. Barack Obama is a man who represents change and diversity, two qualities which I, as a European, hold dear.
Go néiriedh an t-áth leat Mr. Obama, Ireland is behind you.
James,
Please explain to me how someone who is not attractive to Independents and moderate Republicans can win in November? Hillary Clinton may be very well liked in the Democratic Party, but she can not win among cross over groups. So please do tell how she wins?
Hillary cried her out a win in NH and the girls went for it.In other words, she played the gender card. Or was it the Bradley effect?
James,
Please explain to me how someone who is not attractive to Independents and moderate Republicans can win in November? Hillary Clinton may be very well liked in the Democratic Party, but she can not win among cross over groups. So please do tell how she wins?
PRESS RELEASE 01/03/08
AFRIPOL ENDORSES SENATOR BARACK OBAMA FOR US PRESIDENT
To be the leader of the free world and the president of United States of America is not a position for sophomores. A compassing maturity is criteria for the job, a balanced and seasoned intellect and personality. On Senator Barack Obama we found the characteristics of a credible and a great leader, an embodiment of hope, vision and courage.
Senator Obama among the line-up of Democratic Party presidential candidates is the most outstanding and apparently the clear choice. His vision for America and the world is crystal clear - to build more perfect union and a better world. Senator Obama is hope for the troubled and the distressed, a hope for stability and peaceful world. His vision is a bold picture of rancor free, less bitter and tranquil globe rooted on justice and understanding. As a President, Mr. Obama can be an enduring bridge to the voiceless.His leadership is a transparent style without opaque agenda; he does not demonize his political opponents. Even in times of hostile attack, he maintains a profound calmness and collection, an unfamiliar trait among politicians. His styles of leadership we have witnessed have dignified the process of electioneering. His steady and firm hands are needed in the White House. His judgment, understanding and prudence are the most valuable leadership tools needed to pilot the affairs of our distressed globe.
A symbol of hope and understanding he has become. America a beckon of freedom and hope will be enhanced and deepened with Senator Obama as the president. American’s image will be enriched and more people will identify with the promise of America.Senator Barack Obama unique heritage makes him the best suitable for the presidency. In the multicultural world, Obama of Kenyan and Kansas heritage and his early childhood in the most populous Muslim nation (Indonesia) equipped him to become the best and most credible salesman for American ideals of peace, liberty, justice and freedom. America and the world will view each other candidly with his presidency.
At this point in our geo-political landscape, Senator Barack Obama is the right man at the right time to occupy the most powerful office - for he has the discipline, intellect and fortitude to get the job done. Therefore the choice is clear; the Afripol Organization hereby endorses Senator Barack Obama for the presidency of United States of America.
Africa Political and Economic Strategic Center (Afripol) is foremost a public policy center whose fundamental objective is to broaden the parameters of public policy debates in Africa. To advocate, promote and encourage free enterprise, democracy, human rights, conflict resolutions, transparency and probity in Africa.
Mr.Emeka Chiakwelu is the Founding director/Chief policy strategist of Afripol Organization.
http://www.afripol.org/Obama7.htm
James Carroll if you think Obama has no shot you're an idiot and haven't been watching the headlines... Nice tagline by the way--i'm sure a woman wanting to be president would definitely want to use a phrase that highlights the sexism which hinders her campaign.
If Sexist Nepotism gets Hillary nominated I''m voting against the Democrats for the first time ever.
America is a Democracy = Not a Monarchy
PRESS RELEASE 01/03/08
AFRIPOL ENDORSES SENATOR BARACK OBAMA FOR US PRESIDENT
To be the leader of the free world and the president of United States of America is not a position for sophomores. A compassing maturity is criteria for the job, a balanced and seasoned intellect and personality. On Senator Barack Obama we found the characteristics of a credible and a great leader, an embodiment of hope, vision and courage.
Senator Obama among the line-up of Democratic Party presidential candidates is the most outstanding and apparently the clear choice. His vision for America and the world is crystal clear - to build more perfect union and a better world. Senator Obama is hope for the troubled and the distressed, a hope for stability and peaceful world. His vision is a bold picture of rancor free, less bitter and tranquil globe rooted on justice and understanding. As a President, Mr. Obama can be an enduring bridge to the voiceless.His leadership is a transparent style without opaque agenda; he does not demonize his political opponents. Even in times of hostile attack, he maintains a profound calmness and collection, an unfamiliar trait among politicians. His styles of leadership we have witnessed have dignified the process of electioneering. His steady and firm hands are needed in the White House. His judgment, understanding and prudence are the most valuable leadership tools needed to pilot the affairs of our distressed globe.
A symbol of hope and understanding he has become. America a beckon of freedom and hope will be enhanced and deepened with Senator Obama as the president. American’s image will be enriched and more people will identify with the promise of America.Senator Barack Obama unique heritage makes him the best suitable for the presidency. In the multicultural world, Obama of Kenyan and Kansas heritage and his early childhood in the most populous Muslim nation (Indonesia) equipped him to become the best and most credible salesman for American ideals of peace, liberty, justice and freedom. America and the world will view each other candidly with his presidency.
At this point in our geo-political landscape, Senator Barack Obama is the right man at the right time to occupy the most powerful office - for he has the discipline, intellect and fortitude to get the job done. Therefore the choice is clear; the Afripol Organization hereby endorses Senator Barack Obama for the presidency of United States of America.
Africa Political and Economic Strategic Center (Afripol) is foremost a public policy center whose fundamental objective is to broaden the parameters of public policy debates in Africa. To advocate, promote and encourage free enterprise, democracy, human rights, conflict resolutions, transparency and probity in Africa.
Mr.Emeka Chiakwelu is the Founding director/Chief policy strategist of Afripol Organization.
http://www.afripol.org/Obama7.htm
James Carroll if you think Obama has no shot you're an idiot and haven't been watching the headlines... Nice tagline by the way--i'm sure a woman wanting to be president would definitely want to use a phrase that highlights the sexism which hinders her campaign.
James Carroll if you think Obama has no shot you're an idiot and haven't been watching the headlines... Nice tagline by the way--i'm sure a woman wanting to be president would definitely want to use a phrase that highlights the sexism which hinders her campaign.
To Ken: So you're saying that what you did 10 years ago is relevant to what you are doing now? The same argument can be posed about Hillary Clinton. What I can't figure out is why so many people look at the Clinton years with negativity, when so much good happened in this country. Economically and socially speaking, they were the best years of the last 25.
If the Democrats want to retake the white house they should be more focused on understanding the concerns of the voters and bringing specific answers to them. Whoever, between Clinton and Obama gets the nomination should consider the other for running mate. It will be an historic combination and a pivotal moment in the History of the United States and one that will also quench the American thirst for change but through experience,strong and compassionate leadership. The Repubilcans should not be written off but the Democrats have a better shot at the White House
James E Carroll, Obama can win in November. In point of fact sir he has much better odds in the polls of winning the general election than she does. So where your obtuse line of "thinking" comes is anyones guess. I like how you try to pass off your own deluded opinion as a fact though.
In my opinion sir, our most successful presidents. The men who have changed this country for the betterment of all, were the Presidents who through their motivational speeches and ideas inspired all americans to work together to accomplish a common good. Lincoln did it with the amancipation proclamation FDR did it with the New Deal, Kennedy with the civil rights movement and the moon race. And Obama will likely do it with alternative technologies and healthcare. Clinton while a decent politician is too far hated by the opposite side to truly inspir the kind of change we need
OBAMA MUST WIN THIS PRESIDENCY HE ALL ABOUT CHANGE AND WE NEED THIS FOR EVERYONE NOT JUST BLACK BUT ALL GOD CHILDRENS. WE KNOW WHAT HILLARY IS ALL ABOUT BUT BEING A FEMALE MYSELF I WILL VOTE FOR OBAMA. HE'S HONESTY. THIS MAN SHINE LIKE A STAR.I WAS LITTLE UPSET WITH NEW HAMPHSHIRE BUT HE WILL WIN.
LINDA COLLIER MCWHORTER
The issues in this campaign are really quite simple. Hillary Clinton represents the discredited American politics which have caused America to be the most despised country on Earth. America is better than this. Clinton's support of George Bush's war in Iraq and her consistent refusal to denounce and apologize for for her support should automatically disqualify her from being president of the United States.
America needs a total break with the past and a new beginning. Barack Obama whose hands are not soiled with the blood of Iraq and who will let THE PEOPLE of the U.S. decide their future is the right person for these times. He is a good communicator and a healer - not a divider.
To Ken: So you're saying that what you did 10 years ago is relevant to what you are doing now? The same argument can be posed about Hillary Clinton. What I can't figure out is why so many people look at the Clinton years with negativity, when so much good happened in this country. Economically and socially speaking, they were the best years of the last 25.
The Clintons are known to be ruthless people with a tremendous political machine. I remember a brief television clip of George Stephanopolous, one of Clintons frontmen, and todays television pundits, threatening an individual who was ready to expose some damaging information about Bubba during his first election in 1992. I fear for this nation when the media annoints Clinton and McCain as the two candidates. It's almost a self fullfilling prophecy.
The Clintons are known to be ruthless people with a tremendous political machine. I remember a brief television clip of George Stephanopolous, one of Clintons frontmen, and todays television pundits, threatening an individual who was ready to expose some damaging information about Bubba. I fear for this nation when the media annoints Clinton and McCain as the two candidates. It's almost a self fullfilling prophecy.
Hillary had her chance to make change. After years of experience if she had done really good I don’t think she would be standing and requesting for votes people would whole heartedly give her votes, but in the years she has worked she has not done much nor will she. I think she should stop playing emotional games and people should bring a new face that can really make change and help America regain its battered image. I think its time for Obama.
The NH primaries were really close and Americans are going to come out in numbers to vote across the nation in the upcoming weeks. We need to look to the future and not in the past to solve the issues facing America today. The generation of young voters such as myself, make up the "new middle class." I am 28 years old, African-American women with a Master's degree and I am proud to work in the non-profit sector and there are many young people my age who are highly educated, diverse, and work in the public sector too.
We no longer care about the Washington rhetoric we want someone who can bring change and make change happen for the future. My decision on who to vote for on Feb. 5th is not clear yet however, I have ruled out one contender. As a women I think it is wonderful that Hillary has a chance to become the first female president however, I am done with the Bush and Clinton era and want someone who is new has creative and innovative ideas to move the country forward. Therefore, it is either between Obama or Edwards for me.
When they say America is ready for a change, which America are they talking about? Having recently moved from California to North Carolina, I can tell you, some are more ready for change than others, and some, are downright against it!
Our collective future is clearly with Barack Obama. As a nation we can not return to the divisive and mean spirited, " I'm right and you are wrong" politics of the Clinton machine, which is very similar to the Bush machine. The New Hampshire vote just reflected the momentary sentiments of older white democratic women. The larger arc of younger, more diverse, independent men and women across the country will vote for Obama. We must not go back!
Mr. Obama is more hype then hope- more image then substance, and thus far has shown be nothing to dispel these opinions.
An undistinguished career as an Illinois legislator- who simply voted 'present' on a plethora of laws- and a similar record after a mere 2 years in the Senate make him totally unqualified to be President.
Perhaps the Boston Globe should be begin writing real news instead of the crap they do now days- my advice- go back to the New York Times.
I disagree completely with the likes of Mr. Carroll (#2).
1. In fact, this nation (or any other nation, for that matter) has only succeeded when we have had leaders who inspire; inspirational leaders win the minds of their enemies and the hearts of their people. They lead soldiers to victory. They move markets. They forge alliances. This country will not simply be pulled forward by someone who scorns hope and vision.
2. What experience does Hillary have? 35 years of what, exactly? Certainly not publicly elected service. Name three great things she did as an elected offical (cue crickets chirping...).
3. If Hillary wins a general election, we can all look forward to 4 years of stasis. She inspires so much hatred by our Repubican colleagues that she will effective accomplish NOTHING.
4. Listen to Obama's "concession" speech last night. He is the only Democrat who will, as he nicely put it, build a "new majority"-visionary Democrats, Repubicans, and Independents who are ready to change this nation for the better. It's the only way things will get done. Hillary's supporters will return to their couches after they cast their votes, waiting for her to "be ready on day one."
Careful what you wish for.....
Given, of course, that they can demonstrate that they are worthy...
Yes, America is ready for a woman president.
Yes, America is ready for a black president.
And finally, before I am labeled naive, yes, the bar for demonstrating worthiness is set higher, in the minds of many, either way (whether people are comfortable admitting that or not).
The bigger question before us, however, is not about whether we will have our first
woman president or our first black president. The question is about what kind of political dialogue we want to have.
As it stands, complex issues and bills hundreds of pages long, filled with caveats and exception (not to mention executive signing statements) are reduced to sound bites and marketing slogans.
"The Patriot Act" "Operation Iraqi Freedom" "War on Terrorism"
No matter what you think of them, we are are asked to support or simply acquiesce without the benefit of knowing their contents. The sad truth is that our politians are asked to do the same thing when those hundreds of detailed pages are dropped on their desks a few days or a few hours before they must cast their votes. Hundreds of pages written by someone who means well or may have a self-serving agenda. Hundreds of pages that may include large sections or editing by industry lobbyists. All of it reduced to a slogan that can be written on a post-it note.
This is not meant to be a diatribe on the influence of industry lobbyists, though clearly they pose a problem.
The biggest problem we have is that "we the people" do not fully participate. We divide ourselves up into neatly defined groups, foremost among them Democrats and Republicans, and our bills are put forward as "democratic," "republican," or "bipartisan" and our politicians vote largely based on acquiring some small advantage for their group or favor for themselves within their group. They have to worry about the sound bite that may become a rallying cry for the opposition in the next election.("You voted against supporting our troops?"...You are against the "War on Terror"?)
Think about it. Our justice system decides the fate of individuals, by having opposing sides present the facts of the case to a jury of their peers. They are asked to deliberate and come to some consensus.
Our political system resolves issues and passes laws that effect us all, often without such careful consideration.
Some will say that Senator Obama is simply making pretty speeches, but if you listen, you will hear that the beauty of those speeches is that he is asking us to pay attention, to tune in.
Our choice is whether to tune in and concern ourselves with the path our country will take or to tune out after election day and trust that that person we cast our ballot for, and all the others on capitol hill, will take care of things.
Mr. Carroll, please list Hillary's experience for me...I don't mean her years as a first lady where she claims she was defending America against evil while hosting the Easter Egg Hunt on the South Lawn. I'm talking about substantive legislation that she has authored and has signed into law as a U.S. Senator. We can't examine her record as first lady, we can' substantiate her claims for all that experience because she has her records conveniently locked up in Arkansas. I want to see this change she claims she initiated. And compare that (what I know to be paltry at best) record against Obama's 11 years as an elected official, which is 50 percent longer than Hillary's experience, and you'll see that Obama is MORE qualified to be president than Hillary. Then you throw in his ability to motivate people to work for a common goal, his ability to reach across the aisle and his ability to get independents and Republicans to vote for him and you cannot come to any conclusion other than Obama is MUCH MORE electable than Hillary.
I disagree completely with the likes of Mr. Carroll (#2).
1. In fact, this nation (or any other nation, for that matter) has only succeeded when we have had leaders who inspire; inspirational leaders win the minds of their enemies and the hearts of their people. They lead soldiers to victory. They move markets. They forge alliances. This country will not be pulled forward by someone who scorns hope and vision.
2. What experience does Hillary have? 35 years of what, exactly? Certainly not publicly elected service. Name three great things she did as an elected offical (cue crickets chirping...).
3. If Hillary wins a general election, we can all look forward to 4 years of stasis. She inspires so much hatred by our Repubican colleagues that she will effective accomplish NOTHING.
4. Listen to Obama's "concession" speech last night. He is the only Democrat who will, as he nicely put it, build a "new majority"-visionary Democrats, Repubicans, and Independents who are ready to change this nation for the better. It's the only way things will get done. Hillary's supporters will return to their couches after they cast their votes, waiting for her to "be ready on day one."
What would you rather have-a nation whose citizens defines themselves as pro or anti-Hillary, or a nation inspired to lead? Choose carefully.
Another Bush/Clinton dynasty? I'm sure Jebb is warming up on the sidelines already! Oh please... Let's vote for a change... It's time to heal, not spill more blood. Vote Obama!
Go Obama. That's all I have to say. I still love him. He has the genuine love of supporters behind him. I think he has that more than any other candidate in the race, on either side.
I agree with number 6. The Bush administration divided the nation. We need a strong leader to bring the country together. True, Hillary may have more experience, but Obama has more experience than Bill Clinton did when he became president. Think about that!
Obama '08!
Clinton's win in New Hampshire was unexpected, but important. America is ready for a change and Clinton has the experience, drive and ability to provide this nation with a change. She has been here through the struggles and understands how this nation is governed. It is often important to look to the past for the future's well being. This country has a positive, attentive and knowledgeable candidate - Hillary Clinton!
I am so glad that you all have brought up Hillary's "35 years of experience"--My mother was an avid Clinton supporter so I was very tuned in during the Clinton years...all I can recall her doing was putting together a failed plan for healthcare reform (now she accepts money from the insurance lobby...so she has since quieted) Other than that, she fought hard against Republicans during the time of the "vast right-wing conspiracy." This was more a fight to retain power and to keep her cheating husband from getting impeeched, than it was a fight for the American people. She is completely bogus...no charisma, influence, or backbone. A pure politician at best. Please make a different choice this time around!! OBAMA 2008
The next Democratic president and administration will expend near-entire
tenure, cleaning up after Bush-Cheney Inc., et al. destruction and chaos,
while re-establishing a crippled constitutional republic. This IS reality!!!
I've been a Dem for 35 years and happily voted for Bill Clinton twice, but now I can hardly stand to look at him. NOBODY deserves 16 years in the White House! He would love to dim the shameful memories of his second term with a 2008 win (er...his wife's win). But the Clintons have enjoyed the spotlight long enough. They, and their nasty political machine, need to get out of the way and allow the torch to pass to OBAMA and the next generation.
Hillary cried her out a win in NH and the girls went for it.In other words, she played the gender card. Or was it the Bradley effect?
A president needs to see things from the perspective of the people. I president needs to see the future and fear its' coming. A president cannot befriend a company like wal-mart. A president has to build a REAL ENERGY POLICY that has measurable goals, that limits companies and gives the world a chance against global warming. Al Gore invented the internet, that is why he never got a chance at this problem. Obama deserves a chance to save us.
I have never felt this enthusiastic about a candidate before in my entire life. PLEASE, FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR CHILDREN, understand that Clinton cannot beat Mccain, we need change, we need Obama! just look at his major contributors (not tobacco or oil!)
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