Clinton camp argues Obama is falling
While not specifically mentioning the contretemps involving Barack Obama's former pastor, Hillary Clinton's campaign is already pressing the case that the polls are showing its impact -- and raising questions about what that will do to Obama's electability in November.
Mark Penn, Clinton's chief strategist, issued a memo this morning that argues that polls are starting to show a shift her way.
"The more that the voters learn about Barack Obama, the more his ability to beat John McCain is declining compared to Hillary," Penn posits in the memo. "For a long time we have explained that poll numbers for a candidate who has not yet been vetted or tested are not firm numbers, and we are beginning to see that clearly."
The memo cites several polls -- nationwide and in key upcoming states -- that show Clinton leading Obama and Clinton faring better against presumptive Republican nominee John McCain.
"Ultimately, this Democratic nominating process is meant to select the candidate who will: a) be the best president – the best commander-in-chief, steward of the economy, and exercise leadership; b) defeat John McCain; and c) promote and defend core Democratic principles such as universal health care. On all three fronts, Hillary is the best choice for the Democratic Party," Penn writes.
But no polls have come out yet measuring the impact of Obama's much-praised speech on race Tuesday in which he condemned the inflammatory remarks of the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr., but sought to place them in a larger context of America's racial history and challenges.
IF he was a Patriot, OBAMA would have left Wright's 'church' years ago.....but no, even to this day, moral indignation toward one who invokes God's name to condemn this country to hell is ABSENT!
Here is the irony..... the ONE EMOTIONAL REACTION OBAMA ADMITS TO, is in the admission of "cringing" when his Grandmother spoke of a "racial stereotype" she held.
So he CRINGED at Grandmother, but not a fleck of discomfort over WRIGHTS HATE SPEECH TOWARD AMERICA?????
YOU ARE PATHETIC OBAMA
IF he was a Patriot, OBAMA would have left Wright's 'church' years ago.....but no, even to this day, moral indignation toward one who invokes God's name to condemn this country to hell is ABSENT!
Here is the irony..... the ONE EMOTIONAL REACTION OBAMA ADMITS TO, is in the admission of "cringing" when his Grandmother spoke of a "racial stereotype" she held.
So he CRINGED at Grandmother, but not a fleck of discomfort over WRIGHTS HATE SPEECH TOWARD AMERICA?????
YOU ARE PATHETIC OBAMA
His numbers are where they are at the height of his worst controversy...which isn't quite as bad as about 7 of the Clintons.
who is being racist now
I'm a lifelong democrat, but Hillary has conducted such an unethical campaign that I cannot vote for her. This country desperately needs someone who can restore dignity to the Whitehouse. Only 2 of the 3 remaining candidates can still do that...
The latest Clinton camp memo is contemptable! I am a life long Dem and a huge Obama supporter. I will vote for McCain before I vote for her
"God Damn America" ... those three words will defeat Obama in states where the Democrats must win.
Their is no way she can beat McCain or Obama. Clinton should just do the right thing and drop out. No one wants her as President.
The Clinton's are pathetic and desparate. Seemingly, she is not going to stop at anything to get elected. She will say or do anything to get the nomination.
Is she aware of how many cross over voters or voters who will just sit out the election that she is creating.
I voted for Bill twice and loved the 1990's but this shrill, connicing, ruthless and desparate woman will never get my vote. I am 55 and have been able to vote for 37 years. I have never pulled a lever for a Republican but I will not vote for this scheming god awful woman.
If she somehow steals the nomination, I will look at John McSAme in a different light. I will not vote for Shillary.
I think Obama is doing very well. H. Clinton is doing unethical campaign.
What the polls do not reveal is how many Obama supporters will defect to McCain if the Clinton's are nominated. Ultimately, "it's integrity, stupid."
its the enviroment, stupids....earth first......all ways...............
typical clinton spin machine dirty politics. clinton and her group are ruthless, dishonest jerks.
Mr Obama has absolutely no analyzable 'track record', i.e., a 'paper trail' to give one the template to study. He gave one speech -- and, despite his Elmer Gantry-like post-2002 rhetoric, has been inconsistent and fatuous. He seems to be clinging to the idea that smiles and glib generalities are, somehow, equivalent to grasping the dangers this country confronts: islamic nazis; the insurance-medical-pharmaceutical complex literally killing us (cf. Michael Moore's stunning SICKO); Bubba Bush's administrative fascism bankrupting the U.S., etc. Mr Obama's speech on 'race' was devoid of cogent applicability. As a post-Auschwitz Jew, I do not need lectures in front of the American flag on tolerance and unity; during the Shoah, the U.S. government quietly abetted the exterminations with paper walls.
Their is no way she can beat McCain or Obama. Clinton should just do the right thing and drop out. No one wants her as President.
Just think of all the children that are subjected to that hate on a weekly basis in that church and it''s easy to see how racism begins.
How much money has he donated to them over the years... will anyone even bother to find out??
If it takes him 20 years to figure out his pastor is a bigot ...how can we trust his judgement on anything.
Too bad his speech did not denounce the pastor. Saying "I can no more disown him then disown black america"...what???
I wish someone would ask Obama if he believes "white america" put Aids in the black community!
Obama does think you can fix everything with a speech.
Now we can see why Obama's wife calls Americans "sloths" and says we are all "mean".
He should never be President of a country they apparently have so much disdain for.
If he didn't pick up something from his insipid preacher over 20 years of going to that church it is apparent his wife did.
To bad we had the media pushing their own agenda for so long and only now are we finding this out.
The democrats will never win the white house back now.
Blah Blah ...Hope.. (hate)... Blah Blah... Change.. (same old thing)... Blah Blah ... Hope and Change..( just another politician)... Blah!
If the Super Delegates vote in BO I will be hardpressed to understand why. Hilary will win the popular vote from here on out. She beat BO by 300,000 votes in Florida but now they do not count since they broke DNC rules and held the early primary. The Penalty I thought was that thy would not seat delegates. To me the popular vote total should still count in Florida and not in michigan (BO not on ballot) unles MI performs revote.
CLINTON to LEAVE PARTY?
Why not. If she does not get in I would love to see her leave the party and un anyway with Mike Bloomburg (NYC Mayer and Bloomburg founder) as her VP. The two of them together would turn this country in the direction we need to be. Who better then to understand the full scope of the econmy then Bloomburg? Who better to oversee policy both foreign and domestic then Hilary? To me that would be the "Dream Ticket". just my oppinion though.
So after his speech, and he begins to lead once again in the next set of polls...will Cinton and Penn admit defeat and concede?
DUMB MARK PENN, READ THE LATEST CBS AND RASMUSEN POLLS TODAY 03/20 AND YOU WILL SEE THAT HILLARY IS STILL 3 POINTS BEHIND. YOU ARE SO DESPERATE NOW. THE ONLY THING YOU WANT TO SAY BUT HAVE NO GUTS, RATHER USING THE CONSERVATIVE MEDIA IS THAT OBAMA CAN NOT WIN BECAUSE HE IS BLACK AND WHITE.
Yeah yeah the
poll are only consistant when it come their way.............
MI FL should re vote for that same reason--------------
give us a break !
I am hopeful that the men and women of America understand that criticizing our government is a good thing, not to mention it is "freedom of speech." But I imagine that some men and women, have problems with it. I am only glad that they do not express themselves by jumping on a horse and having their wives make a white outfit for them and riding out in the dark night with their buds and throwing a rope around this historic man's neck. Or doing what China did when it tried to suppress the freedom of speech from the young man whose picture appeared recently on all of the newspapers around the world - you know the lone free man standing face front against the big Chinese tank in the college square. Which is worse, what white people did for years to blacks or what Wright expressed "not god bless America but god damn America. I say God damn America for raging war in Iraq. My son says _ _ _ _ Bush for raging war in Iraq. And he loves America as much as I do and reads history books for fun - he is a red haired and freckled white 22 year old male in America with many black friends. I am proud that he expresses himself so freely. What, would you condemn that eagle scount for being ashamed of some of the things white men in Congress have being doing to America? This white attorney mother of three is voting for Barack OBAMA. Thank God America has in its core value freedom of speech. I only hope we stop punishing people for expressing their thoughts.
We need a president that will get this country back on track. I believe the Clintons have the experience and support to victory.
Hillary Clinton has not made ONE singular inspirational speech during this campaign. If you cannot inspire, how can you lead? Hillary Clinton and her cronies have done nothing but try and throw stones at Obama's rock solid integrity. She is a negative campaigner, and he has been nothing but positive. This article reflects yet another attempt by the Clinton's to scratch their way forward in what is a dying attempt to hold on to the nomination.
Obama' 08.
Im not a democrat, and didn't vote for either Clinton or Obama in the primaries, but I have to make this comment. Every time I hear anything out of the Clinton camp, it's absolutely negative and, for lack of a better term s**t talking. I'm getting sick of hearing her talk almost as much as I'm sick of hearing Bush talk.
The Clinton Camp is out of touch. This old establishment is out of touch with the real people. If the Dems cheat Obama from the Democratic ticket She will LOSE.
Why would we vote some of the same family members of have been in Office since Reagan was President. George Bush SR was VP 4 years then President for 4 years. Bill Clinton President for 8 years, George Bush JR 8 years. 24 years we cannot handle another 8.
The Clinton Camp is out of touch. This old establishment is out of touch with the real people. If the Dems cheat Obama from the Democratic ticket She will LOSE.
Why would we vote some of the same family members of have been in Office since Reagan was President. George Bush SR was VP 4 years then President for 4 years. Bill Clinton President for 8 years, George Bush JR 8 years. 24 years we cannot handle another 8.
I THINK AMERICA NEEDS TO QUESTION OBAMA'S JUDGEMENT IN ATTENDING TRINITY CHURCH FOR 20 YEARS...WHOSE LEADER PROMOTES WHITE HATRED/COUNTRY HATRED. HE'S SUPPOSED TO BE THE POSTER BOY OF "UNITY", YET HE CAN'T LEAD BY EXAMPLE AND RAISE UP HIS DAUGHTERS IN A MIXED RACE CHURCH THAT TEACHES FROM THE BIBLE? SORRY...HE'S NO UNIFIER. I'VE NEVER SEEN HIM TO SHOW A LOVE OF THIS COUNTRY EITHER...AND THAT'S A DEAL BREAKER FOR ME. NO OBAMA FOR ME. CHANGE, HOPE, HATE.....OBAMA '08!
I guess Mark Penn believes in the democratic ideal that says forget the voters and their votes. Perhaps he should get a job in China or maybe Cuba.
So the Clinton spin machine grinds on. Obama is the best candidate despite this overwrought wishful thinking. I really hope these tactics don't succeed. It would be a shame to get more of the same old political garbage. Obama is our only hope for honest change in Washington.
What a corrupt clinton crony.
I sure hope they don't win. They will use the power of the government to destroy anybody that dares to disagree with them. Slander and slime are his calling cards.
Looks like playing the race/religion card is working. Thanks for dragging us back to the mid-20th century.
Now the American people are being tested -- no longer the candidates.
If Obama's poll numbers remain down after his speech, then the fascists will win.
I'm curious, and scared, at what the polls will show during the coming week to ten days.
Hillary Camp's claim is bogus. Even republican are trying their best to send negative message so that Obama does not get Democratic party nomination. Hillary will be easier to beat by McCain and Obama will be formidable candidate for the republican to beat in November.
I think Hillary's camp is 'jumping the gun' in hopes that folks will believe her. I do not think we will see a trend toward her in polls taken after Obama's speech. I my opinion, if Hillary was really smart and wanted the best for our country, she would have called a news conference the day after Obama's speech and conceded. He is clearly the best candidate.
The Clinton Camp is out of touch. This old establishment is out of touch with the real people. If the Dems cheat Obama from the Democratic ticket She will LOSE.
Why would we vote some of the same family members of have been in Office since Reagan was President. George Bush SR was VP 4 years then President for 4 years. Bill Clinton President for 8 years, George Bush JR 8 years. 24 years we cannot handle another 8.
I guess Mark Penn believes in the democratic ideal that says forget the voters and their votes. Perhaps he should get a job in China or maybe Cuba.
Two days ago, Barack Obama gave the most substantive, profound, nuanced, and compassionate speech on race ever delivered by an elected official and candidate. Before Mr. Penn seizes on one snapshot in the ever-fluctuating river of polls to promote his candidate, let's see if Senator Obama's words appeal to the better angels of the American and our collective human nature.
Doesn't the spin cycle just start to make you sick after a while? He is not being vetted by his pastor's comments. Hillary has been vetted? oh right.. it was when she voted for war in Iraq and more recently gave Bush more power to go to war with Iran. These are opportunities to be vetted.. not being held to the words of others.
Obama has already won. There will be riots across the country if the Democratic Party defies the voters. What Hillary and her spinsters ARE managing to do however is making our chances worse of beating McCain... I hope everyone gives her a big round of applause at the end of this shameful campaign she is running. She just cannot let go to the fact that she ruined her sure win.
She spins Obama on one side saying he is trying to slight voters in Michigan and FL when she pulls tricks behind the scenes like trying to delay the Texas votes coming up that will show Obama won, until after PA so she can still have people blinded as to why she is still running a race she has LOST.
She is willing to tear us apart for the taste of power. The woman is a witch.
Does the polls tell how many Obama supporters will vote for McCain if Hillary steals the nomination?
Let's start that poll now, consider me a McCain voter if the Democrats nominate Hillary for the nomination.
Two days ago, Barack Obama gave the most substantive, profound, nuanced, and compassionate speech on race ever delivered by an elected official and candidate. Before Mr. Penn seizes on one snapshot in the ever-fluctuating river of polls to promote his candidate, let's see if Senator Obama's words appeal to the better angels of the American and our collective human nature.
We need to be fair America; “everyone” wants Obama to denounce his church over speeches made by his Pastor. To be fair with Obama
How many Catholics actually discontinued, denounced and demonized their Church after they found out that their Reverend, Pastors, Cardinals or Bishops was molesting young boys? Should all Catholics abandon their churches?
One cannot be punish for the sins or wrongdoing of another.
This is unnecessary distraction from the main issues facing America today, issues such as the Economy, the lost of lives of our men and women in uniform fighting in Iraq, health care, education and the future of our country etc…
We have Presidency in denial, who actually believes the war was a success after five years, with so much lives lost, and Trillions of dollars spent. This should be the main attraction/issue for every realistic persons and journalists who love our country.
The main question is why the so-called “journalist” chooses to pick on issues that are so irrelevant to the American lives. Does any one actually care more about the speech Obama Pastor made as compare to the lives of our dead service men and women, or over the endless war or over the economy, health care and crimes in our streets…?
The entire sanitized journalists should be ashamed of the “work” they do. It seems journalism of today are so sanitized and afraid to be a real journalist, instead they have to pick on anyone/issues that secure their employment…what happened to fearless and courageous reporting? That is what journalism is.
Would you please start been a journalist again by reporting issues that actually affects lives of the millions of Americans, issues ranging from how the best country in the world have so much homeless people and possible solution to eradicate homelessness, issues affecting the jobless Americans and their homes, the war, the miscarriage of justice in our society etc. Please be courageous in reporting, tearing people down is not journalism.
Thank you for reading this.
Emmanuel Ukpe
Doesn't the spin cycle just start to make you sick after a while? He is not being vetted by his pastor's comments. Hillary has been vetted? oh right.. it was when she voted for war in Iraq and more recently gave Bush more power to go to war with Iran. These are opportunities to be vetted.. not being held to the words of others.
Obama has already won. There will be riots across the country if the Democratic Party defies the voters. What Hillary and her spinsters ARE managing to do however is making our chances worse of beating McCain... I hope everyone gives her a big round of applause at the end of this shameful campaign she is running. She just cannot let go to the fact that she ruined her sure win.
She spins Obama on one side saying he is trying to slight voters in Michigan and FL when she pulls tricks behind the scenes like trying to delay the Texas votes coming up that will show Obama won, until after PA so she can still have people blinded as to why she is still running a race she has LOST.
She is willing to tear us apart for the taste of power. The woman is a witch.
show me the polls in 3 months and then I might consider this.
She is too poll driven
Yes team Clinton, keep saying it, and convincing yourself, and it will indeed come to be. Its still the votes that count, and no matter how many Rovian tactics you use against a fellow Democrat, you still have to cross the vote threshold. Had you banked on that?
It is to be meant. If you are against the country, what rights do you have to lead this country? OEM
Barak Obama's double standard is evident when it involves white people.It is not race , but anti-Americanism remarks that I object. To hear such vitriol about a country that gives opportunities as no other is shameful. The Senator's speech did nothing to adress the the racist remarks by his pastor. Racism is not only a white problem, but it foments in the black community--just listen to the justification..
I don't care what his pastor says, does, eats, spits, farts, steals etc. I beleive in Obama. He is a real person driven by real issues and beleives in the right way to turn this country around. If people are so vein as to be persuaded to flip to Clinton then they should just stay home and not come out. The Clinton campaign can say all they want. The will NOT persuade my vote for Obama, just make it stronger.
So let me get this straight.... States only count if Hillary wins them, polls only count if Hillary is ahead, and when the time comes, a delegate lead will only count if Hillary has it. Wow... just, wow.
Another "bold" statement from the Hillary camp. Every time things don't go her way, she changes the rules. As soon as the polls begin showing her behind again, she'll start saying that "polls don't matter, it's elected delegates, it's the popular vote, it's the superdelegates, it's Michigan" Give me a break. Is this the type of leadership America needs?
It is to be meant. If you are against the country, what rights do you have to lead this country? OEM
It is to be meant. If you are against the country, what rights do you have to lead this country? OEM
What a bunch of vile political crap. Penn is trying to create a poll result that confirms his supposition. This is one more feature of the kitchen sink strategy from a desperate campaign that knows the nomination is slipping through their fingers. When the real poll arrives, and shows gains for Obama, this statement will be forgotten and there will be a fresh attack on some other picayune non-issue.
It's time for Hillary to throw in the towel, get behind Obama and stop the bickering among dems. With each day the dems don't have a nominee, McCain gets stronger. If she bows out gracefully now, maybe she'll get the #2 spot, or at least be able to reappear in 2016. If she tears Obama down further, she's done forever.
I CAN"T stand Mark Penn or HRC....and I can't wait for their demise....
Looking at Gallup Polls, it seems that the lead has exchanged hands a number of times. So, "Hillary was falling" a couple of times, and "Obama was falling" a couple of times. Things change in the polls.
I think this level of chatter is a sign of desperation in the Hillary Camp.
The one thing Hillary has an abundance of is ambition (it seems limitless). Now that seems to be followed closely by her desperation, which is clearly showing up more and more.
HRC will stop at nothing and sending her campaign idiot out to proclaim why she is best is no news to anyone. Barack Obama's campaign has creamed her in more than double the contests and her team does nothing more than bring down the candidate who will win the Democratic nomination. If Florida State had the goal post movers that Clinton has they would have beat Miami and been world champions three more times. I will give her deserved points on tenacity but subtract many more for integrity and class which is now clearly evident she is unable to display.
Why is Hillary suddenly doing better than Obama in the polls....SURPRISE! She just hired a new polster who told her so. Her campaign is getting so desperate they'll try anything to stop the bleeding.
The Clinton camp is jumping the gun on this.... What Clinton need worry about is her records that have finally come out showing SHE DOES NOT HAVE THE CREDITABLITY TO LEAD AS SHE HAS PROCLAIMED.....
As far as Obama's speech on the matter of his pastor, I think he was quite clear he does not agree with it. On the address af racism, it was a speech that is long past due, and should put the matter to rest.... You Go Obama, great job in stetting the mater to rest... Obama 08!!!!!!!!
hillary is like a pitt-bull on pcp. she was shot 11 times and she still keeps charging. losing elections does not seem to stop the pant suit monster. START LISTENING TO YOUR COLLEAGUES IN THE SENATE THAT SAY ITS OVER AND YOU ARE ACTING LIKE A LUNATIC perhaps someone needs to hit Billary over the head with a rubber hose to get her to stop
HRC will stop at nothing and sending her campaign idiot out to proclaim why she is best is no news to anyone. Barack Obama's campaign has creamed her in more than double the contests and her team does nothing more than bring down the candidate who will win the Democratic nomination. If Florida State had the goal post movers that Clinton has they would have beat Miami and been world champions three more times. I will give her deserved points on tenacity but subtract many more for integrity and class which is now clearly evident she is unable to display.
This is a most important election for America. We are falling apart internally because of an war that should have never occured. The financial strain for the country and citizens, loss of world respect and americans' faith in our government that things will improve must be answered. Electing the right person now will either make things better or ruin what is left. This is a time we desperately need someone with experience and good judgement as well as known with respect throughout the world.....Hillary Clinton is that candidate.
I think Mark Penn or whatever he calls himself should read NY Times about Hillary's path to nomination getting narrower. He should also spend his valuable time trying to explain accounts of Sen. Clinton in the white house most especially her percieved commander-in-chief claim.
Bill and Hillary would do anything and say anything to get elected. Just the thought
of Bill chasing women around the Oval Office again makes me sick.
BALONEY! 4 or 8 more years of a Clinton is too much for me. I am sick to death of politicians of which the Clintons are the epitome of the poitical power couple.
The economy under Bill Clinton might have been wonderful but I doubt very much it was his doing- who could have predicted the technology boom on Wall Street!.
What jobs did Bill personally create????? and how about the Iraq sanctions and over 100,000 bombing misssions over Iraq?? Hilary is not a peacemakernor is she the person I want to represent womanhood!. She has been humiliated beyond belief for the chance to President. Do I see shades of Lady Macbeth?
really. He does not love the country any way. Why argue to lead the country, if you do not love it. OEM
In the present situation, Hilary Clinton could be the only electable presidential nominee for the Democrats, instead of Sen. Obama, who could defeat Rep. nominee McCain. Though Obama is an eqully competent candidate, however, if the republican organize their presidential campaign using the racial divide in present day US Politics, they coould be able to defeat Obama. Though, I am all in favour of Obama, who will be an ideal candidate to bring about fundamental change in American politics, yet my genuine fear of his eletability at this time compels me to support Mrs. Clinton, who could defeat McCain. If there is no victory for the democrats, then what will be the use of supporting Obama. Obama, under these circumstances should consider opting for the Vice-Presidents' position, at this time, and such a team could be very good for the US
As I watched Barack Obama give his speech, and other speeches, I envisioned the President of the United States speaking before the UN, speaking to world leaders, speaking to the American people. I saw, and see in him, a world leader. A leader that can inspire. After all, heads of state can do nothing on their own. They achieve only by leadership and inspiring others.
I can't imagine Hillary Clinton doing this. I can't imagine John McCain doing this. Those two represent the same old-same old.
As for the "polls". Well, you wouldn't be able to print it.
I used to have respect for her. She is doing what she accuses Obama's minister of doing. Why support such hateful ignorance? I could never vote for her. If she wins the nomination, I would have to vot for McCain.
People started to realize that Hillary is most qualified and the best candidate for president. She will also work hard to solve this serious and most challenging problems our country faces now.
In the present situation, Hilary Clinton could be the only electable presidential nominee for the Democrats, instead of Sen. Obama, who could defeat Rep. nominee McCain. Though Obama is an eqully competent candidate, however, if the republican organize their presidential campaign using the racial divide in present day US Politics, they coould be able to defeat Obama. Though, I am all in favour of Obama, who will be an ideal candidate to bring about fundamental change in American politics, yet my genuine fear of his eletability at this time compels me to support Mrs. Clinton, who could defeat McCain. If there is no victory for the democrats, then what will be the use of supporting Obama. Obama, under these circumstances should consider opting for the Vice-Presidents' position, at this time, and such a team could be very good for the US
The Clinton camp actively sought to unearth whatever cheap, objectionable material they could dig up about a pastor from Obama's church--as if Wright himself were running for office--then claims victory when a poll suggests that their attack worked.
How does any of this make our country better? Make no mistake: Low-ball campaigns come from low-ball candidates.
It makes me sick, it makes me sad, and it makes me apathetic about participating in our democracy.
Well done, Ms Clinton; you flashed your political genitalia, and the Johns could all but resist.
Obalma cannot win. He is stuck in the mud of his racist priest 's venom and his spiritual mentor is a fanatic. Obama will not leave this man whose speeches are ugly and atrocious, monstrous really. The priest uses the affluence of his church to hurl abuse at whites and at his country that can only make the racial divide worse. Goodness comes from goodness. Never from cruel words..
BALONEY! 4 or 8 more years of a Clinton is too much for me. I am sick to death of politicians of which the Clintons are the epitome of the poitical power couple.
The economy under Bill Clinton might have been wonderful but I doubt very much it was his doing- who could have predicted the technology boom on Wall Street!.
What jobs did Bill personally create????? and how about the Iraq sanctions and over 100,000 bombing misssions over Iraq?? Hilary is not a peacemakernor is she the person I want to represent womanhood!. She has been humiliated beyond belief for the chance to President. Do I see shades of Lady Macbeth?
The Clinton camp actively sought to unearth whatever cheap, objectionable material they could dig up about a pastor from Obama's church--as if Wright himself were running for office--then claims victory when a poll suggests that their attack worked.
How does any of this make our country better? Make no mistake: Low-ball campaigns come from low-ball candidates.
It makes me sick, it makes me sad, and it makes me apathetic about participating in our democracy.
Well done, Ms Clinton; you flashed your political genitalia, and the Johns could all but resist.
Saying that Hillary is the better candidate in all three fronts, to me is a bit over stated. It seems this conclusion was drawn because of the statement of the preacher. But what stand has obama himself taken concerning the issues at hand.
People started to realize that Hillary is most qualified and the best candidate for president. She will also work hard to solve this serious and most challenging problems our country faces now.
"I've attacked Obama for so viciously and for so many months that now he can't win in the fall! So vote for me!"
Great new campaign slogan, Mrs. Clinton...
I think shortly we will see in the polls the impact of Barack Obama's speech.
I think Americans are smart enough to see through Hillary Clinton's spin. Why, why, why would we want the same old cronies in the White House?
Senator Obama's speech said to me I am going to have the courage to stand by people even if it hurts me. I have the courage to love the person and their faults. I have the courage to talk about race and say black, white, latin, all have felt unfairly treated by this issue. I even have the courage to address my opponent's supporters with kindness and forgiveness on this issue and say "let's move on". That is strengh and courage to me. I am going to rise above it all and stay focused and not lower my self to politicals as usual........
To me that is a leader. Is that inspiring? Of course it is! And why shouldn't it be! Why shouldn't we be inspired
I would like you to turn the discussion to Hillary's saying that "We cannot win the (Iraq) war." I believe that this statement is as unpatriotic as the Rev's unpatriotic criticism of the USA. And while delving into her background and Hillary's experiences, how about her affiliation with 'Whitewater' associates and the questions that were raised around the 'resolution' of that issue, as it pertained to the Clintons? And what about her unwillingness to divulge the source of her 'big dollar' funding? What about the fairness of equal time? Doesn't that refer to both the negatives as well as the positives? Please, enough trying to color Obama with the same brush as his pastor. It's not fair to drag that issue through the mud any longer. It doesn't change the fact that Obama is ahead in delegates and popular votes. While you have been dwelling on this, Hillary has been trying to turn the primaries into a sham. Let's be clear to the American public who look to the media for truth in reporting, that the primary is about the vote by population as represented by the count of delegates. The candidate with the most delegates wins! Very simple, indeed! Florida and Michigan were unfortunately disqualified from that process, but the candidates knew the rules at that time, and they agreed to those rules. Hillary is now trying to call 'foul' because she knows that she can't win the nomination fairly, and according to the rules of delegate count.. Please, please, I look to you to report the fact, not to spin the facts! Thank you.
You wrote: "...he condemned the inflammatory remarks of the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr., but sought to place them in a larger context of America's racial history and challenges". In fact, Obama tried to justify the hateful, racist bigotry of his pastor of 20 (!) years - and this is absolutely unacceptable. Obama is unelectable. Period.
I would like you to turn the discussion to Hillary's saying that "We cannot win the (Iraq) war." I believe that this statement is as unpatriotic as the Rev's unpatriotic criticism of the USA. And while delving into her background and Hillary's experiences, how about her affiliation with 'Whitewater' associates and the questions that were raised around the 'resolution' of that issue, as it pertained to the Clintons? And what about her unwillingness to divulge the source of her 'big dollar' funding? What about the fairness of equal time? Doesn't that refer to both the negatives as well as the positives? Please, enough trying to color Obama with the same brush as his pastor. It's not fair to drag that issue through the mud any longer. It doesn't change the fact that Obama is ahead in delegates and popular votes. While you have been dwelling on this, Hillary has been trying to turn the primaries into a sham. Let's be clear to the American public who look to the media for truth in reporting, that the primary is about the vote by population as represented by the count of delegates. The candidate with the most delegates wins! Very simple, indeed! Florida and Michigan were unfortunately disqualified from that process, but the candidates knew the rules at that time, and they agreed to those rules. Hillary is now trying to call 'foul' because she knows that she can't win the nomination fairly, and according to the rules of delegate count.. Please, please, I look to you to report the fact, not to spin the facts! Thank you.
So the news here is that Mark Penn sent out a memo?
Why bother reporting on it? Just because this is a Globe blog doesn't mean you get to avoid soliciting another opinion or two. Otherwise you're merely Penn's megaphone.
Only the Democrats, with help from an utterly amoral and irresponsible press, could manage to squander the political capital they've been given this year. At this critical point in America's history -- with a failed foreign policy, a global reputation in tatters, an economy in crisis, and an incumbent President (and GOP) lacking the ability to reasonably accept blame -- we are on the verge of accepting another 4 years of GOP rule.
Hillary won't defeat McCain in November. She plays the same tired political game that Republicans play, only much less effectively. She's too divisive to unite the Dem's, and her substantial baggage will trip her up come next Fall. Watch and see if you disagree.
It's pitiful that Hillery, Barrak, and McCain are the best that the two major parties can place in the running for president. Two are already proven political prostitutes and the third wants to, at a minimum, turn us into a eunich (sp) socialist state.
Hopefully, in the future there will be an independent party representitive so the true will of the people will be represented and given a chance to vote for what they believe in and not be subject to the will of power politicians.
Then Clinton should hire Belichump as campaign manager, Saying it does not make it so.
Of course the Clinton campaign would. Any rival campaign would. I was hoping that your would do a bit of analysis on the validity/realisticness of Mark Penn's "campaign message" rather than simply printing whatever he wrote. That's pretty lame journalism.
Obama's team could have written this same memo a couple weeks ago. I am an independant and I have voted for Bush the last two elections. If Obama is on the Democratic ticket he has my vote. If it's Hillary, I will vote for McCain. I have spoken to many others that feel the same way.
Yes. No polls have come out measuring the greatest speech of the last four decades.
Hopefully being a great speech writer can translate to fixing up our economy and foreign affairs...
The extent to which people can be swayed by rhetoric and charisma is terrifying. We'll see when the newest polls emerge.
When will Hillary's campaign stop twisting every single moment to its advantage while appearing more disingenuous each time round? Yesterday, her slimy appeal in Michigan, a state she dismissed as unimportant less than two months ago. The day before, her disconnect on Barack's speech in Philadelphia. Today, pouncing on a moment in the polls to find a trend.
Where has the issues gal gone?
Does she want to keep playing the negatives game until everyone sinks down to her level and folks start scaping up the residue from her involvment in strange dealings during Bill's terms or until this gets out in the open:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xq8aopATYyw
I have always voted as a Democrat all my life but I will not vote for Clinton. No matter what the press or the polls say, I will not be voting for McCain either.
Obama is not really falling, it is more a pause, to consider, reconsider, judge. Hillary Clinton's campaign has gone through that phase already. At the end of the day, when the dust is settled, the issues raised by this whole Reverend Wright episode may be the demise of Obama's campaign, but this is in no way the point at which Hillary Clinton's hope for presidency is elevated.
In fact, she will be facing a dejected and angry Obama electorate that will not vote for her in any scenario because she will be seen as the instigator of his downfall, rightly or wrongly.
The Democratic party, and I am a Democrat, again unable to win the presidency . . .
The is reprehensible. I understand that politics at this level can lead to ruthless, opportunistic behavior. But for a the Clinton campaign to try to gain advantage from the Jeremiah Wright flap in an active way is shameful. If anything, they should be attempt to defuse this issue (since a rational treatment of race in America iIf is is perceived by blacks liberals that the Clinton campaign acitively took advantage of this issue, it may cost them (should Hillary be the candidate) in November. I am a lifelong democrat, but I doubt that I would vote for her in the general election if she helped use race as a bludgeon against Obama.
Senator Clinton is an outstanding senator from Illinois who has been running an honorable campaign focusing on issues rather than launching personal attacks on her opponents. Barack Obama is a carpet bagger who did not run for Senate from his home state of Illinois where he started his grassroots movement. Instead, he decided to run from New York and paint himself as a yankee fan. His entire campaign is based on the accomplishments of his spouse Michelle Obama. He would not even be in picture if Michelle Obama were not a former president of the United States. Shame on you Senator Obama! I hope you continue to fall.
Geez, he's responsbile for his minister's comments. Is she responsible for NAFTA AND GATT cuz she was married to that lying old bastard Bill
To bad its too late Hillary, see ya
No he is not falling.
He is sitting on the lap of vitriolic rev. Wright therefore he cannot be right.
It ain't over yet. Obama will get through this crisis and ultimately be our President.
Geez, he's responsbile for his minister's comments. Is she responsible for NAFTA AND GATT cuz she was married to that lying old bastard Bill
Though I like both Clinton and Obama. Lets be honest. Talk about race is okay until it makes whites uncomfortable, particularly when whites feel that they are being "blamed" or not seen in a favorable light. Any talk about race where this happens gets stiffled. As far as the Reverends comments, does inflamatory actually mean false. People raise questions all the time regarding Americas foreign policy, particularly the hubris of this current adminstration. Blacks always have to address race, why don't white leadership address race. When there is a black candidate for any office in the news the "expert blacks" are brought out to hear their views, why don't you seek the views of blacks on other topics when there is a story regarding a white candidate or any other issue.
Polls cited are premature. They only mirror the uncertainty stemming from concerns over Rev Wright before Barack Obama elevated the discussion.
Barack Obama has provided context to a discussion which is germane to the long term well being of the nation and the citizens will respond with renewed support.
The Clinton campaign is blinded by unfettered ambition that divisive. Such behavior is not even remotely what America needs in the White House.
I am a white woman over 50. According to the Clinton campaign, I should support Hillary. The truth is that if she is selected to be the nominee, all I know for sure is that I will not be able to vote for her.
Obama offered nothing but platitudes and double speak. At the end of the day, Wright's rantings are wrong and dangerous. There is not room for Obama to talk about "...placing them in a larger context of America's racial history and challenges....".
Period.
I do believe that Mr. Obama displays the ability to speak to anyone, within reason. No, he might never be able to convince the uneducated, prejudice, mean-spirited Limbaugh fans who spew hate and will vote for Mccain. And, mayve not a fierce feminist who will vote only for a woman because she is a woman. But any individual who hears him knows Obama is thoughtful, intelligent, prudent, discerning man. That he was able to move grown men and women to tears with his last speech...that's one to consider. Yes, we need a unifier, but more than anything we need a President that can inspire the new generation to take action in a world that needs to discover that we are more alike than we are different.
I do believe that Mr. Obama displays the ability to speak to anyone, within reason. No, he might never be able to convince the uneducated, prejudice, mean-spirited Limbaugh fans who spew hate and will vote for Mccain. And, mayve not a fierce feminist who will vote only for a woman because she is a woman. But any individual who hears him knows Obama is thoughtful, intelligent, prudent, discerning man. That he was able to move grown men and women to tears with his last speech...that's one to consider. Yes, we need a unifier, but more than anything we need a President that can inspire the new generation to take action in a world that needs to discover that we are more alike than we are different.
this isn't news. It's a talking point from a corrupt clinton campaign
I hope Billary get' s it....McCain will crush her in the election
I have told friends and family that if Barack Obama does not get the nomination I would still vote for Clinton because I don't want another Republican in the White House. However, if her campaign uses this ridiculous, media-led, imbalanced frenzy to show that she should be president she wil NOT get my vote. I will suck up another 4 years of Republican garbage than be led by a cheating, manipulative, whiner. McCain is too old to run again and since I've been able to make it this far, I think I can handle another 4 years.
Can someone find the controversial remarks by Hilary's Pastor???? Also Google Sean Hannity & Hal Turner and check out the Conspiracy
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20050620/blumenthal
Q. You don't suppose that the Clinton co-presidency is involved in fanning the racial fires in this campiagn, do you?
A. It depends on what the definition of IS is, I guess.
Is this woman unable to speka about her ideas on isssues like Mr. Obama. all she does in negative campaigning because hse is trailing. i hope the voters are smarter than to pay any attention to her distraction and fearmongering.`
yes, because Obama was not only attacking by united republican party but also by democratic party fellow Hillary Clinton. Talking about divisive and ruining the Nov election chance for Democrats, HRC's camp had done it all. Unfortunately, the lead was not given to her, but to John McCain. Mark Penn forgot about to mention that part in his memo.
Hillary should just give up now. She cant deliver a decent speech, and she certainly cant win the "Minority" vote in states that actually matter. Hillary has far too many connections with large businesses and will ultimatley hold their best interests at heart. Look where the money comes from. Hillary and McCain get theirs from corporate sponsors. Obama got most of his from individuals.
Republican... let the states decide.
Democrat... let the rules be set at the national level and filter down to the states.
-those who do not learn from their history are doomed to repeat it!
Why of course the Clinton's would claim Obama is falling. Just another one of their "Myth's" that follow their campaign strategy.......Their true colors are coming out loud and clear!!!!
I fear that any momentum that the Dem's had is gone and I don't see the party coming together. The politics between Obama and Clinton have basically fractured the party into 2. Clinton Supporter won't back Obama and vice versa. I think the race has become to personal and has really pitted Dem against Dem as opposed to Dem against Republican. I am not Republican but I respect how they come together when its time. This will be the first time I vote Republican and not because I totally agree with their policies but because they are showing leadership and strength and don't appear to be as divided. It doesn't matter if Clinton wins or Obama neither has a chance in the General Election because of the divisions within the party. This was the Dems best chance to win and they choked!!!
When's the last time Penn got something right in this election?
Come ON. This campaign is getting to be more and more about press releases designed to put one person (mostly Obama) on the defensive. Karl Rove once made a comment to the effect of "If you're on the defensive, you're losing." I think the press needs to stop playing into the political games being played and take the lead: make them talk about actual ISSUES.
Obama is our Savior. No more so called elections where racists can vote and Obama doesnt win. Make Michelle proud, install Obama as President now. Obama & Rev. Wright are Right!, God D*** america. Obama will apologize to our Muslim brothers for an arrogant america!
I don't put much stake in polls, but I am worried about what Obama's church will mean in the general election if he becomes the Democratic nominee. I think Dems are naval gazing here in our primary season and we need to look at the bigger picture.
According to Hillary, she's a close second in delegates while Obama is next-to-last.
Obama has it the bag. And it cannot be taken away...Or else Sharpton, Jackson and the rest of the race hucksters will turn Denver '08 into Chicago '68, only about 1 million times worse (with 24 hour cable, Internet).
I just hope it is not too late. One thing people don't understand is iObama is big unknown without years of establishement. He preaches change but with all his talks I never see a real action on change when he was a senator. If he is for change he should point out now what kind of changes he has done while having a power of being in politics for the last 10 years. Where are his measurable accomplishements? All I hear is talk.
As to his pastor, he said he 100% disagreed. What did he do as a sign of disagreement? Just sit there and repeat in his mind "I don't agree with you?" Did he do anything? Did he try to stand up in front of his community and say "don't listen, these are not true?" Did he prevent his children from being brainwashed by the pastor in the church every Sunday?
It is one thing to have an opinion with which others don't agree, it is another thing to stand up in front of a large crowd and preach about your opinion and make a brainwashing influence. And it is another thing to be an audience of all that and not do anything about it... His speech did not convince me that he does not share the same feelings about white America.
I am a legal immigrant and I came to this country and work very hard starting from zero. If native Americans make more money, I say to myself "yes this is their country, I have to work hard to become part of them and it is a privilege to be here that I should earn. I don't see anything wrong with that. If I didn't like what I see here when I should just shut up and leave. I come from a corrupt country that was part of Soviet Union and what I see here is peanuts compared with what is going on on the other side....
Hillary comes across as a b*h, so what. She is strong that's why. WH needs someone like her who can put everybody to work around her. People in WH have gotten fat and lazy and someone need to shake them up. If I were a president I would care more about my community, people who come from my country and I know my decisions would be biased wheather I know it or no. The same with Obama, his decisions would be biased to make things for blacks who feel as if they are missing their share of the big pie called America.
Even though I wish Obama a chance to express himself, I know that the forces of ugliness will still try to inject their deep rooted, subtle hatred for a black candates chances to emerge into the Presidency.
Obama should not have to waste time cleaning up the weak slurs against his creadibility. However, we must continue to escort the progressive voice of healthy change for this wonderful country in its original principle.
There are many problems that need to be addressed in this country. Obama is a good stepping stone in that regard.