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Philly readies for the showdown

Posted by Scott Helman, Political Reporter April 16, 2008 06:49 PM

PHILADELPHIA -- The circus has descended on Independence Mall for tonight's debate between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Hundreds of press, onlookers, and supporters of the candidates are swarming.

Seven Clinton backers, each with a white-and-black flag displaying a letter of her first name, are running in circles on the lawn outside the National Constitution Center. Charlie Gibson, who is also moderating tonight's debate, is anchoring his nightly newscast on the center's balcony. There's a blimp-shaped "Boilermakers for Change" balloon in the air, and someone, inexplicably, has a giant green Gumby balloon flowing in the breeze.

So far, it seems that Clinton's supporters are winning the sign war outside the debate hall, though Obama's fans have hoisted a big "HOPE" placard. It's perfect demonstration weather: The sky is cloudless, and the temperature is warm.

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