ANALYSIS:Romney, Clinton No New Traction

Senator Obama won. Hands down.

I disagree in part with this article. Romney handled the attacks very professionally and tactfully. I lost respect for McCain tonight. He had some of the worst personal attacks on Romney the entire night. It was very childish.

Senator Clinton, claimes that she is the candidate with experaince, 35 years she has claimed. However, of that time she was twice a first lady (non elected posts) and she has been latley a jonior Senator from New York. – what kind of experiance is that exactly?
During her husbands administration, she tried to revamp helth care – and failed in the attempt. I believe that she does reparesent the status quo of buisness as usual and I do not think she is an agent for change, she says she is because that’s what she thinks will get her elected.
She is like Bill Clinton except in 3 ways, she has no charm, no charisma and is a woman,(not that being a woman is bad, after all England had Margret Thathcher – but she is no Margret Thatcher!)
She is also one of the most polarizing people in American policitcs today.
People may do well to remember her before she re-invented herself but please America don’t be fooled by Mrs Clinton new cloaths – look carefully, very carefully and you may see they have not changed so very much. -
So don’t believe the spin belive in the voice of your heart, we need change, we need vision and leadership more than ever and I do not believe that Sen. Clinton can provide what this nation apears to be seeking.
Finally if you should disagree with my anylisis, certainly by all means you may – but above all please remember that all of this does not count for anything with out your vote so add your voice to the chorous for change or against change – but make sure that you vote in accordenace with the convictions of your best belief and I certainly can’t argue with that.

i agree with steve, mccain’s comments just caused him to look like a bully. i thought romney handled himself very well.

Terrible article, if anyone suffered tonight it was McCain with his childish personal attacks. Mitt sounded intelligent and informed on the isssues. Obviously the media is going to spin it and say Mitt suffered, but that can be expected from the biased reporters at ABC. Romney won easily tonight and McCain and Huckabee came off as little children, ignorant on the issues that America Cares about. Go back to Journalism 101, you must have failed.

This post is indicative of the same challenges that women encounter in the workplace when they try and assert themselves. I am undecided, but there are definitely still stereotypes on how men and women are “allowed” to defend themselves.
Why is it when a man defends himself or his record, he doesn’t come across as angry and/or bitter (to quote Undecided)?

Obama showed great poise and offered clear and ‘specific’ agenda items which elevated him high above Hillary and John. Hillary was laughable and actually said that the only change she could offer America was her gender…pathetic.

I feel that Gov Romney handled the personal attacks by Senator McCain very well. He did not get angry and frustrated, but sticked to the issues and defended his use of advertisements to point out the strong difference between his and Senator McCain’s positions on illegal immigration. It seems to be a very touchy issue for McCain and his only defense was to backlash at Romney with personal attacks and slide remarks. For a 71 year old man with all his experience I feel it was a very juvenile display of his character. Stick to the issues Mr. McCain. If you cannot properly defend your support of amnesty for illegal immigrants, admit you were wrong and take it like a man.

i disagree with this. I believe that Hillary did rather well. You know what the prove is going to be in the pudding. And the exp.will prevail. That will be Hillary.. I believe that N.H. will back her up.She has backed N.H. I donot believe they will let her down..greg..

I thought the attacks on Romney, by McCain and Huckabee in particular, came across as somewhat childish. I was undecided before the debate (between Romney and McCain), but will definitely go with Romney. He stayed above the fray, looked and sounded presidential and had the right answers on the issues. Huckabee would be a gift to the democrats and the left wing press knows this, that’s why they promote him.

Here again Obama showed conviction, superior knowledge and his ability to handle attacts from Hillary with respect yet distinguishingly. I love Hillary but its time to call it. An Obama/Edwards ticket is shaping up. Dont you think with Edwards constantly siding with Obama in every issue raised.

I thought McCain’s continual personal attacks on Romney were childish. I was undecided before tonight on McCain but now I know I will definitely not vote for McCain. I will either vote for Romney or Rudy G.

Unfortunately, I could not watch the democrats debate. As for the republican debate I must say that I truly liked the format. I learned alot more about the candidates. My top runners are McCain, Romney, and Giuliani – in that order. I felt that both McCain and Romney held their own. Romney was a bit hypocritical when he moaned about personal attacks. His ads have been disappointingly negative and when the gauntlet is thrown, well be prepared for the consequences. I did not feel that McCain was childish – I felt that he put Romney in his place. That said, I still appreciated all three of my top contenders positions – even when they differed. Thank you to ABC for coming up with a more viewable format!

The above article is so bias. Hillary Rocks!!!! She made a very powerful message to all Americans. This is a wake-up call to every Americans; we need to put the right candidate in the White House who will fix the damages and will get it right and get the job done. Hillary is very knowlegeable and experienced as well as the most prepared candidate. Everyone should learn a lesson about George Bush’s slogan of change in the past and promises but not delivering them.

PB in nh is right, it’s absolutely ridiculous and pathetic how when Clinton doesn’t show emotion, she’s criticised, and when she does show emotion like in this debate, she’s still criticsed.

If a man would have made comments in a similar tone as Hillary, they would have been given no attention. As a man, I am disappointed that other men are not acknowledging their own sexist attitudes that are influencing their perception of Hillary as a formidable candidate.
Don’t confuse her passion and energy with “anger” or being a “bitter woman.” Hillary truly did a great job in this debate. She stood her ground, but it seems as this is threatening to other men. Don’t let your issues with seeing a powerful, intelligent, and capable woman cloud the reality that she is ready to lead our country and bring about the change we need.

Hillary would do herself more good if she could only speak in more dignified way, and more respectful terms to others. Instead, she looks proud, and I might say also now harried, shrill and worried. Obama speaks with ease and confidence, as you would expect from the President of the United State and leader of the free world. Furthermore, there is a veiled racial undertone in many of her assertions against Obama. President Clinton used to speak of a more perfect union. Can the Clintons show at this time that they really believe in what they were saying, instead of being consumed with a sense of entitlement? Funny enough, this kind of challenge faced another well-known liberal Democrat, Dean Rusk. He failed the test when he disappoved of a blackman marrying his daughter! Finally, while one must agree the Clinton years in the White House was good for America, there were also many missteps in the Clinton years. And if Republicans believe in dynastic rule, Democrats of all people must reject it! That is where Obama’s inspiration and sense of change count most.

I agree Hillary has more experience than Obama. But experience at what? Putting the best spin on she and her husband’s performance as President and First Lady? I refuse to relive the past deceptions and attacks I remember during their tenure in the Whitehouse. They were so good at it! I think Obama or Edwards, either one, would at least give us their honesty DAY ONE as President. And their hopefulness and passion exceeds experience alone.

I thought McCain’s continual personal attacks on Romney were childish. I was undecided before tonight on McCain but now I know I will definitely not vote for McCain. I will either vote for Romney or Rudy G.

Hillary Clinton for too long was riding atop the polls by flaunting her name and using meaningless slogans besides having a large war chest. She, however, lacked substance and her claim of 35 years of representing change is questionable. The Senator’s voting record and rhetoric, such as authorizing and funding the Iraq War, are at odds and quite hypocritical. In my judgment, Senator Clinton represents what needs to be changed, whining politicians who wish to have it both ways, such as support President Bush’s wars while at the same time oppose them. You can not have it both ways. Sorry, Senator, you do not represent change at all but merely a continuation of what’s wrong with our system.

I thought Hilary and Edwards both did well. Hilary always does well. Obama doesn’t like to talk about policies and issues in small soundbytes.
But I will be voting for Obama.
You can’t bring about “change” when you have almost 50% of the country galvanized against you and you are the third most politically divisive person in the country, after W and Dick.
A lot of this really I don’t consider to be her ‘fault’, but it is what it is, you can’t get around it. I have an idea of what I’d be getting with Hilary Clinton, but that’s not good enough for me, I want something MORE – and that’s what I’m hoping to get with Obama. His comments and my gut tell me he has the right “instincts” -
and he will have far more political capital and a mandate than Hilary could ever have.

I WAS IMPRESSED WITH HILLARY WHEN SHE PICKED UP ON EDWARDS COMMENT THAT HE WAS PROUD OF THE PATIENTS RIGHTS BILL AND HILLARY LET IT BE KNOWN THAT THE BILL DID NOT PASS.

Why doesn’t anyone ask Edwards and Obama why they think they have the right to be President of the United States. “Change” is just a nice word that they throw around like sand but Washington DC is not friendly to newcomers and they are so new it is not funny. I am not a huge Hillary fan but at least she knows the ins and outs of Washington DC and can get to work quick. The other two will flounder like headless chickens for the first 2 years. We can not afford that now. I think the only viable candidates, not necessarily ones I agree with, are Hillary, McCain and Richardson. I wish just any smart person could become President and hit the ground running but it wont happen. Washington will crush them and make them “Assimilate” like all others before them. They are going to go after Lobbyist, which ones the ones that protect our food safety or animal rights??? Lobbyist are not criminals and I have to agree with Hillary some are fighting for the little guy and others are fighting against. What is needed is reform, not gutting, the system to make sure that it is done legit. It just bugs me that everyone is knocking Hillary but not the others, at least she has been in the fight for really all of her life. That makes me support her more than these other guys that haven’t been in politics that long at all AND they want to be President and people are supporting them. COME ON!!!
McCain is another one that has devoted his whole life to serving this country. Talk is cheap and yeah Obama talks better than Hillary but SO WHAT??? I can guarantee you that our enemies will be rejoicing when He or any of the other candidates with no experience with Washington DC get elected. They are going to make life miserable… Presidential candidates should all be required to have certain experience credentials.

To Ian-did you watch the debate or not.
Hillary didnot say there would be change because she was a woman. When she spoke of change-she spoke about that you cannot just say change-that it requires hard work.
The problem with Obama and his new brown-nosing friend Edwards is they just believe in rhetoric and firing up the troops with a lot of inspiration but I doubt if either have the prespiration to make it happen. Hillary has been fighting for causes(esp children)while Edwards was getting rich at trials and Edwards was busy being an academic.

Senator Clinton did not come off well tonight. You can see a certain amount of open hostility she holds with respect to losing her front-runner status. That hurt her ability to convey otherwise sound arguments.
It reminds me of Al Gore’s huffing and puffing display in his debate against Bush. It just doesn’t come off as Presidential.
It will be interesting to see how Edwards’ defense of Obama plays out.
With respect to McCain, he could have ratcheted down the Romney attacks some. However, a couple were really pretty funny. Particularly the “I really do believe you are the candidate of change” comment. However, there were a couple times when, in order to get in a zinger, he talked over Romney.

Well put Clayton. I completely agree with you. Thompson looked good, so did Guliani. The only two that came across as lacking was Huckabee and Mccain.

This article is inaccurate. I beleive Gov. Romney did himself good. He stayed above the fray. He stuck to the issues and made Mccain, Huckabee and the others look out of their league. Gov. Romney showed he can take a punch and will be able to stand up to the Democratic attack onslauht if he should get the nomination. Mccain & Thompson looked old and tired. Huckabee looked lost and as a result resorted to preaching on the pulpit. Please New Hampsire, vote with your head no your heart. Romney is the only hope for the Republican Party. Please send Mccain back to Arizona and Huckabee back to preaching in Arkansas.
Keep fighting Governor Romney. I know you have to fight those jealous bastards and the MSM, but you have support out here. Keep going!

Here’s everything I know, I think my fellow Americans should know it too!And before my comments, let me say that I came into the debate undecided on my choice for the primary. Regarding the Republican debate, John McCain was very direct with his views and fully maintained a impressive demeanor when it came to Romneys ridiculous attitude/dirty ways. Tommy Thompson is a very intelligent man who carries himself in a strong way. Ron Paul is nothing more than a joke, who should be on the other ticket. Romney appears to be very defensive when confronted and does not seem very secure. Huckabee was out of the way in this one, aside for a indirect comment stating that he is anti-abortion. And Rudy G. invoked the name Ronald Reagan a little more than I would have liked, whereas I feel that he has some excellent plans for the nation and should stay more focused on that. So with all that being said, I give points to McCain and Thompson for jobs well done and one of the two will be receiving my vote as they both possess excellent leadership qualities.

Really confused on were Junior senator Clinton comes up with 35 years experience. If using the poor and middle class people for her own advances for 35 years then I guess that should count for something. Whether your a women a man or black or white just tell the freaking truth you would be surprised how far you’ll go with all americans. You might even get elected president of this great country.

As I have observed the increase in poll numbers for John McCain in New Hampshire as of lately, I really thought I’d see him tonight conduct himself that would reflect his surge in that state. Having lived in the state of Arizona for nearly twenty years, prior to my move a few years ago, I was very fond of our Senator, however tonight as thousands have observed, John McCain showed what his true colors were all about. He acted in a juvenile manner and it was rather dispicable to observe him resort to the name calling and deliver the low blows that he did to Mitt Romney. I admire how Mitt handled those situations and was the better man to not act the way McCain did in any type of Response. Huckabee should have just stayed home. Lost some respect for McCain and gained much more for Mitt. He’s got my vote.

I couldn’t agree more with the comments about John McCain coming off as childish. My choices had been Romney then McCain then Huckabee then Rudy and then Duncan Hunter or Fred Thompson. When McCain attacked Gov. Romney with the “change” (cough, cough)joke. I lost all respect for him. I wanted a Romney/McCain ticket now I would rather have Ron Paul in the White House than John McCain. Sen. McCain you went to far this time.

Hillary was awful tonight in losing her temper. And she blames Bush for every single answer but doesn’t tell us what she is going to do. And then saying the change she could offer was a woman in the White House? Lame. Romney was good but he did come across as a little bit of a bully with McCain. Huckabee was solid but wasn’t involved as much.

Why do you feel Romney came across as a bully with Mccain?

Watching tonight’s debate swung my vote from Edwards to Obama. I found him very honest and personable. Plus, I support anyone willing to take on lobbiest, even if I don’t completely trust him in that regard. If forced to choose between Hilary and a Republican, I will vote 3rd party. I cannot forget that, during the Clinton administration, Arlington cometary lots were sold and that rooms were rented out in the White House. Plus, look at who they did pardon and look at who they didn’t. (Leanord Peltier…) Every time she talked about experienced and all the good deeds she’d accomplished I thought of all these things that never seemed to get addressed anymore. Are we supposed to have forgotten them? I’m a liberal. I want someone who is going to at least pretend to work for me, not better herself. Tonight, she came off bitter and, at times, smug. I felt like Clinton had teamed up with Richards; Obama with Edwards. It was like you could see President and Vice President.

Huckabee was despicable? How? You clearly are just going off of what you thought coming into the debate, not what actually happened. Huckabee didn’t say anything inflammatory. You are a clear Romney supporter, not that there is anything wrong with that…

Has she ever earned a paycheck before Bill Clinton retired??? I mean seriously.
What 35 yrs of experience??? Why doesn’t anyone challenge her in that??? What did she do in the Arkansas days???? Her only real job without her husband’s influence (to some extent) was to be US Senator! My dad was a doc and my mother a teacher. Does that make her a doctor or a nurse by virtue of marriage or sharing the same bed???
Hillary gets so flustered and impatient. I wouldnt want her to represent the country in times of high stress.
Obama was too dignified to address her mud slinging.
How many years of Clinton-Bush are we going to have??? Its been over 25 yrs of these 2 families! Whats next?? Jeb Bush???? Chelsea Clinton????
Thats not change! Thats more of the Same.

I don’t understand Hillary’s claim of 35 years of experience… I wouldn’t allow myself to be operated on by the wife of a surgeon, I would want the wife of a police officer to respond to a home invasion, I don’t think we would send the wives of soldiers to Iraq. Experience of first lady doesn’t = experience as a president anymore than being the wife of a CEO qualifies you to be a CEO.

Obama can barely contain his smugness. His comment about Hillary being “likeable enough” was childish. And then coming back to it later in the debate was even worse. Civil rights icon Andrew Young and so many others are correct — Obama is too immature for the presidency. Plus, he looked bored, like he was above it all because he already has it all wrapped up.

I am not a Ron Paul supporter but I have to admit, if he weren’t so radical on his foreign policy stance I might consider him.

As I watched the GOP debate, I was impressed with ROMNEY. Of all the candidates he was the most articulate, professional and stuck with the issues. There were a lot of “cheap shots” directed towards him and he handled them in stride. I guess that is expected in a debate, but I am beginning to feel this shows who each candidate feels is the greatest threat to them. The GOP field weakens considerably without Romney. In addition, THOMPSON had a pretty good night. GIULIANI probably had the third best performance of the night. MCCAIN spoke little on the issues and focussed on jabs to Romney. Where was HUCKABEE tonight? He seemed to be nonexistent. PAUL, as usual held strong to his views, but those views seem to be outside of the current GOP. Being I am from Pennsylvania and will not get a chance to cast my vote for a few months, I hope the people of NH see through the “cheap shots” on Romney. Can anyone really picture McCain standing as president? I sure cannot.

Why were McCain and Huck out for blood tonight? They complain about Romney’s attack ads yet they just wouldn’t stop with the personal attacks.
I definitely won’t vote for either McCain or Huck now. I will probably vote for Rudy.

Chgojr,
I am an Independent. I was just turned off by McCain’s personal attacks. I don’t mind Romney’s smile. It probably won’t be enough for me not to vote for him.

I am not surprised why so many college students like Obama; it’s because they believe Obama can deliver change. But hold up, For you all college students out there: Please do yourself a favor. Do not get carried away of the word change that Obama might deliver because we do not know that yet; Hillary already had done a lot of change and helped New Hampshire healthcare system. Hillary has been there and done that.

I agree about the “cheap shots” by McCain toward Romney. Anyone watching had to be cringing at how mean spirited they were. McCain just seemed mean and seemed to be having fun doing it. McCain lost a lot of votes tonight guaranteed….
I don’t know who I am going to vote for yet. But, I am definitely not going to vote for McCain. McCain did horrible tonight.

MAdem:
apparently Hillary is using her Arkansas days as experience as well. so that “adds” up to “35″ yrs.
She’s been in the corrupt system too long. Time for a non BUSH and CLINTON. She’s had 35 yrs with nothing much to show for except her Senate yrs. Thats pure and simple. Other than her failure on health care during Clinton’s presidency.

All you Romney people bashing McCain, it is no secret that you guys organized to post on various message boards en masse tonight. I have a friend in the Romney cam and that is the edict we were told you all were given. Pathetic!

As an independent I think have come to some good conclusions after the debate tonight. ABC’s format was great. The only candidates I can’t support are Edwards, Hillary, Huckabee, Richardson and McCain. They all came across as either too extreme or unequipped.

Kay,
obama spent 8 years in the state senate voting present(not quite a stellar performance) Only thing he’s done in the US senate was a good convention speech and to get his senate seat beating Alan Keyes???? Hillary got to the senate the hard way-scaring Guiliani out of the race then running against a sexist pig but trouncing him. Also she had no more a privledged upbringing than obama-she earned her way into those schools-he just wasn’t smart enough to get into the Ivy league school without tranferring!!!

I am also an independent and agree that ABC format was great. I really enjoyed the debate and how ABC asks some tough questions like to the Dems “The surge in Iraq is working and you have been against it. How do you respond?”
Thanks ABC for a great debate.
I don’t like negative attacks so they only person I ruled out voting for tonight was McCain.

In the debate Edwards and Obama were just mean to Hillary. I think most people are just mean to Hillary. Gallup recently surveyed people who will not vote for Hillary and 40% of the responders said, “they simply did not like her” or it was because she was a woman or because she did not divorce Bill. This is very unfortunate. She is brilliant and is a wonderful policy wonk – what is needed to get things done. I think most people are really sexist and do not want to admit her brilliance.

You have serious problems if you think one debate entitles you to dismiss a candidate. These are normal people just like you and me, under immense pressure and media scrutiny trying to lead our country. We can laugh, bash, and complain about them all we want but lets not forget, they are not robots. So gather your opinions and policy feelings and vote for who stands honestly for them, not for who says big words or who can take the worst verbal thrashing.

JP:
Obama came from a twice divorced family household and had no “Clinton” last name to help get elected to be a US senator. He actually had to work his way up from the state senate.
What did Hillary do?? Oh thats rite, she inherited her husband’s political machine and infrastrute to run after Guliani pulled out due to cancer. Talk about opportunity.
Hillary’s upbringing and Wesley college as a republican speaks much about who she was before marrying Bill. Apparently Wesley won’t even release her final yr thesis!!! I wonder why…..
Obama was the first non white editor of Harvard’s law review. So that speaks volume about his academic ability. Obama spent yrs as a community organizer earning less than 20K after graduating from an Ivy leave college. What did Hillary do???
He’s a got a record of hardwork and independence from youth to who he is today. She’s got Bill clinton.

I totally disagree with this article ,first of all did you all expect Hillary to just sit queitly while Obama and Edwards claimed they were different from her ,like Edwards saying he suppored the pts bill of rights which did not get through or Oboma afew other ones she called him up on it ,Hillary showed she is the most suitable for the job and she has a record of change and they could’int prove otherwise or they would have

The problem I see that Obama will have if he makes it through the primaries is the fact that he has less experience than the potential GOPers. People will ignore the fact that the GOPers are extremists, that their party has been hyjacked by neoconservative religious freaks and that spending during their tenure was absolutely unacceptable. It’s too bad. That’s why we need to vote in Edwards or Clinton during the promaries because they have the experience card to go up against the GOPers.

Bogey, I will give you the hunting comment. That is one of the only faults I can find with Romney though. He has been accused falsely of flip-flopping on issues. Abortion is really the only issue he has changed his mind on. He did after all always come down on the side of life as governor of Mass. This was far before his presidency run. Don’t you think he has been unfairly portrayed by the media?

Robert- I do look at the issues and he doesn’t have a track record. I can put up a site that makes me look great. Its the Internet for christ sake. If you are so for obama name 10 things that he stands for that you have seen or heard of not from a website you are directed to.

I am a woman, and will NOT be voting for Clinton.
She claims 35 years experience – others have asked the same question, experience of *what?*. She claims to be a feminist, yet spent the entire time as First Lady “standing by her man like Tammy Wynette”. Now I’m supposed to vote for her because she’s a girl??? Give me Geraldine Ferraro, and then we can talk.
Sure, Obama seems to be warm-n-fuzzy, but I saw Obama give his speech in Iowa, with his wife and children there, I instantly flashed back to the Kennedys. “Ask Not What Your Country Can Do For You, Ask What You Can Do For Your Country” is *not* a defined policy statement. It is not a reflection of “experience”. But it led to the peace corps, the civil rights movement, and yes, President Clinton the First.
I’m hoping Obama can rise to the occasion, and be the president we so desperately need.

It’s funny no one is saying “anyone but Huckabee or McCain or any other” but they will about Romney.

That is exactly the impression I get from the far right of the GOP party including Thompson, Romney and especially Huckabee. If you aren’t Christian, you are corrupt is basically the underlying message there. It is so insulting it’s rediculous that Americans let it fly just because the majority in this country is Christian.

Kay. I can only say that you’re so naive. If Obama were to be in the Senate at the same time Clinton was, he would do the same. So what about Edwards? Americans do not need a guy who just does not have principle. When every one is for the war and the public opinion is for it, he would vote for it. When so many Americans have sacrificed and the public opinion is against the war coupled with the fact the he is about to run for President, he jumped out there and apologized for it. If we would run for the Republican ticket he would not even say a word. It is true that Hilary made a mistake, however she is working to fix it. She is nto going to jump around and say I’m sorry without doing nothing to fix it. We need to wake up…

Kay,
Now we are on the “war” vote. 1st of all the vote was not to go to war- it was to authorize the president of the United States that if all other options were exhausted and that a true threat to the US existed(nuclear weapons) that the president would have congress support in going to war. This measure was supported by over 1/2 of the democrats in the senate at the time(not just Hillary and John edwards) The fact is that Bush lied to the world about Iraq based on lies by an ex Iraqui Chalabi and that’s why we went to war. Any honest president would not have gone to war with that authority but Bush did.
And for the record Hillary has stated if she new the lies then like she knows now-she wouldnot have voted the authority to Bush-so don’t go making up that Edwards has apologized and she hasn’t!!!

DREAM ON ROMNEY SUPPORTERS! Romney’s barracuda smile won’t fool many except the foolish.
He will not be on the Republican ticket as VEEP because all the other candidates hate him, and if he is the nominee for Pres, a true CONSERVATIVE third party candidate will arise and take enough votes away so that he can’t win.
I hope he hangs on long enough, however, to spend some more of his money!
BTW: Five (5) healthy sons – none of whom ever bothered to serve in the military!

JP:
if you dont know Edwards apologized for his vote, then you really need to pay more attention. Its out in the open. He apologized and moved on.
Hillary on the other hand has this hanging over her head because she “regrets” it but not apologize for it.
Obama spoke against the war on Iraq from the beginning. And you’re right, over 1/2 of democrats voted for it like Hillary. Thats why Obama is unlike the rest. He has good judgment, something experience can’t buy.

Isiah- This election is more that aobut the environment. What else that he says he can do be accomplished in his 4 years if elected Thats was my point. Are you really serious with that bull

archie are you that selfish?

I think her 8 years as first lady does count as experience. First, when Bill first ran in 1992 he made a comment about Hillary being involved in his presidency calling it a “two-for-one” deal. This obviously is telling of her role in the white house. Also, she has 2 terms as a US senator compared to Obamas 1 term. I’m not from Illonois but if I were, I’d be disturbed that a senator that was elected to represent the state did so knowing he probably would not even be attentive enough to finish his first term. Obamas a joke.

Hilary is a strong, smart, confident woman who stuck up for herself and who makes a very strong case for herself to be able to sustain a long term fight against the Republicans….do not romanticize Obama and his ability to make change.

kay,
you are really getting desperate when you have to mince words that way(Edwards apologized but Hillary didn’t formally apologize)She acknowledged that it was a mistake in view of what she knows now-that’s the same damn thing as an apology. And yes I did acknowledge that Edwards apologized but BIG DEAL we donnot need apologies we need a way out !!!

kay: You don’t think Obama was simply eyeing that Illinois senate seat in order to run for president? If he’s such an agent of change, why not actually finish a term in the senate which the people of Illinois elected him to, and try to create change there for the people of Illinois. Must you only be president to be create change?

LaJaeric Miller, I gave you an EXAMPLE that is important to me – the candidates voting RECORD. Obama’s RECORD on voting right by the planet speaks for itself. He has the BEST environmental record of all candidates. Period. Yeah, its just one example, but if you are tuned in, global warming is incredibly serious, not a bunch of bull.

Thats not true. We went into iraq in 2002. He didn’t run for the senate until 2004. Intelligence came out in 2003. So dont feed me that bull. He wasn’t agianst it from the start sweety

True American & JP -
True Amercian: it really is unfortunate that you think someone with a view unlike yours has to be paid by a particular campaign. If thats the logic, then you “obviously are being paid by the Hillary campign”.
Excuse me for expressing myself. I do believe this is why we are allowed to post our comments.
JP – its not desperateness. It speaks to one’s character when someone can’t admit a mistake. I value that. I hope to think that our next leader would have that value to be transparent and honest with us, don’t u?

Romney is doomed. Flip-flopper. He is now reaping the dividends of having sold his soul to the pro-abortion people just to get elected in Massachusetts.

Obama is saying what the people want to hear, but won’t the new president, regardless of who it is bring change? I am hoping the answer is yes because they know the mess Bush has created and they should know that things will have to be done in a different manner.
I have more respect for Hillary because she has to deal with what Edwards and Obama throw at her and she has gained my vote. I do not fault her for showing emotion, we are all human, and I guess regardless of how she acts or what she does people will judge her.
I also believe Edwards did a good job to night and he would be my second juice. Once Obama stops being a man of words and becomes a man of action then maybe some day he will be a good candidate.
A note on Obama and the fact that he is bringing in young voters: I agree with a previous comment that the youth of America doesn’t take the time to gain knowledge on the subject that is being discussed. I am 26 years old, from California, and during the recall of Gray Davis all I heard from many of my classmates was that they had voted for Arnold because he was the Terminator and that was a kick a** movie. I think that was the first time that I felt glad that youth in America were not voting. Those are not the types of things I would want voters in this country to be using as criteria for politicians.

Wow!!! Hillary took the punches that the boys delivered and she toe-to-toe with them. She stuck it to the guys and thought they tried to beat her down, it didn’t matter. If you want someone who knows how to take a punch and stand and deliver it back threefold, Hillary is the one. She also talked in a way that made sense. Thank god she can string words and thoughts together in a logical way, as opposed to some others on that stage tonight. Hillary need to take on the status quo on that stage tonight–its called the boys club, and she did. I’d be proud to see her in the White House. There would be no one better.

Romney couldn’t take his own medicine, that was great. After all that lambasting and negativity, when a little comes his way he just shows he can dish it out but can’t take it. He also showed he is completely for business-as-usual rich getting richer and keeping the pressure on everyone else.
Obama held his head high and dealt well with Clintons aggression. I thought Edwards was particularly vital and passionate, and though I became an Obama supporter over the past month or so, I have to say I really transfered my support to Edwards.
Not only am I another of those young people who want change, big change, and though I admire Obamas dignity and ability to bring people together, it was Edwards’ passion, conviction, and honesty that sold me.
I feel Clinton is done for, she made the pre-emptive aggressive attack, and the others defended themselves well.
She doesn’t get the message that what we want is someone who can bring us together. Her willingness to divide comes all too easily, and that is the quality of the past 7 years with Bush/Cheney/Rove that I want more than anything to leave behind.
I couldn’t be more excited imagining an Edwards/Obama ticket, or vs versa.

“I hope to think that our next leader would have that value to be transparent and honest with us, don’t u?” Kay
I finally agree with you on this. I just do not think that person is Obama or Edwards. Listening to them speak just give me the shivers. They’re really good… good at talking about what people like to hear.

He has only neen a US Senator since 2004. When he spoke at the democratic national convention he was not a US senator yet. He was an Illinois State senator

Angel and Swoosie10:
It wasn’t Obama who was negative. It was Hillary who was throwing out everything she had. He didn’t waste the audience’s time by dinifying her comments. He stuck with the issues without saying all the boys ganged up on her when she was the front runner.
He’s calm, composed and the complete opposite of Hillary. He’s a gentleperson and thats something a true leader possesses no matter how rough it gets.

This is Trash Simple and plan!

I believe the Obama-Edwards-Tag-Team brings down what positive message Obama can more than carry for himself. Edwards makes Obama look more like a sleazy slogan participant than the bold great orator that he is. Hillary speaks of 35 years of experience because she has worked for children’s rights, women’s rights, patients’ rights for 35 years. She doesn’t say she has been elected to public office for the last 35 years. I like Obama and he does inspire me. However, I am always asking myself… where are the ‘CHANGES’ or great things this man-out-of-no-where has accomplished? Show me or explain to me the ‘CHANGE’ he has accomplished so I know what I am voting for. Edwards seems to run away from his public service in the Senate and seems uncomfortable finding examples of his being a ‘CHANGE’ agent. He speaks of fighting corporations but leaves out he did so as a paid lawyer – thus, his millions. I find weight in Hillary’s story when I reviewed it… not so much in the others. But I my vote has yet to be cast if the other candidates can make their case!

Kay didn’t mention being negative I said they were attacking her. Especially Edwards saying that they were for change and Hillary wasn’t. Since your such an Obama fan why need explain it to me. Change, change, change… so when he gets to the White House what do his words mean to you. What are you expecting and how are you going to feel when he doesn’t deliver. Not because he isn’t capable, but because life is not that simple. Not having dealt much with the whole process and having so little experience is a big red flag for me. It is like me working at a company and demanding to be president after a few years there. People would laugh because they would say one thing YOU DON’T HAVE THE EXPERIENCE and that is the same way I feel about him. Maybe in 4 years or more.

Even Dick Morris, who hates Romney, thought he won the debate. McCain came across as snippy. Snippy is not what I am looking for in a President. Fred Thompson is a much better choice than McCain for anyone who doesn’t like Romney.

Amen Tara Beth. I’m just tired of hypocritical canidates. Obama and edwards say they are against lobbyist. Both have been suported by one. Obama has one as a campaign cheif and supporter (ex governor of sc Hodges) Hodges ruined our state. Now the republucans have control. Im just afraid if we vote on words and not records then we are gonna be on a worser situation than we are in now. You saw how they are alreadt getting ready to smear a democratic canidate. Only Huckabee praised and a he is disliked is his on the Obamabee express and americans are so in need for change that the are gonna vote for whatever sounds best and it will destroy the democratic party and they’ll have to rebuild just like after te Jimmy Cater Situation. Do you think its a coneincidence that none of the major black players are backing him. I watched Jesse Jackson this morning and he said the same thing as you beth. He said vote who is best ready from day one

Romney came across as two-faced. His whole campaign is about playing politics to win. Its not surprising that the others dont like him.

Rudy Guiliani did very well in my opinion and he should get back to front runner status once Romney loses out to Mcain in NH. Huckabee is not going to win outside of bible belt.
Unfortunately on the democratic side, Hillary does not seem have to charisma or maturity to perform under the pressure and she seemed like an angry and frustrated women. Both Edwards and Obama do not have the credentials (one talks about changing everything without knowing what it takes to change and other just wants a war against corporations) to match up to Guiliani and if it comes to Guiliani vs one of those 2 guys, I would happily vote for Rudy though I am a democrat.

Isiah-
What difference does it make that he isn’t a presidential candidate? He was speaking for Republicans in general. If Hillary is president, than McCain will only be one opinion from the Senate of a 100. Hillary has worked a lot across the aisle on bipartisan bills.

72 hours from now Romney’s campaign will effectively be over. Too bad he decided to flip-flop instead of being like his father, who was a straight-talking political leader. If he had approached his political career like his father did, he would probably have been elected this time. Instead, Romney decided to allow himself to become a creature of his consultants.

Wow- McCain really did himself a disservice tonight. You could tell that he’d been waiting days for his chance to use that practiced one-liner about the president of change. I can’t stand people who laugh at their own dumb jokes, especially when they are mean-spirited. What a loser. I wish I was in New Hampshire so I could send him packing this week.

It seemed a bit hypocritical of Romney to complain about personal attacks given the calculated distortions (i.e. lies) contained in his desparate attack ads against McCain and Huckabee. McCain hit the nail on the head: Romney is spending his millions to smear his rivals with a flood of dishonest ads. He won’t get my vote.

Isiah-
I was a military brass! Leadership and politics do go hand-in-hand. I was also in Student Council, Junior Class president, National Honor Society president, Fraternity President, an officer in the military, and am currently involved heavily in the community but that doesn’t make me qualified to be President of the US. Political experience does matter!

I have no doubt that the candidates with the most money and consultants, have most of the special interests and lobbyists dirt on their hands. Including the campaigns of smears and dirty tricks.
Whom may that be, why Clinton and Romney of course.

Mike, by the way, I’ve seen many politicians who are anything but leaders. Most of them look which way the wind is blowing before they take a stand on something. Leaders know how to bring people together and know how to get things done by having a critical mass of followers. Barack Obama has a proven record of doing just that. Just look at this campaign. Obama built his campaign on the change theme – refering to changing the old politician system and bringing in an approach based on experience that works in solving problems for the benefit of the common good. All the other candidates embraced this change theme as followers to Obama’s lead.

Ok, Mike, I was military brass too, and I think you are confusing working with people with being a politician. Obama knows how to work with people better than Hillary. He knows how to create a following and get things done. You would not see conservative Republicans and Independents voting for him if he did not know how to work with people.

Stuart- I know it might seem that with that such an overwhelming number of people coming forward with a common message of recognizing the “childish behavior” and name calling by both the McCain and Huckabee “personal attack machines” that it sounds a little conspiracy theory… but it’s not. No one in the Romney campaign coaxed those undecided democrats and independents to recognize and post the same line of comments. Believe it or not.
Joel- I doubt you can dismiss a candidate, even if they lose NH, with that much money in the bank, and so many people finally realizing his ability. Don’t buy into what the media would like people to believe about Romney being washed up with a 2nd finish in NH. People finally woke up to him tonight. Don’t know if Romney’s winning the debate tonight will be enough to move the numbers in the next few days to win, but I do know he won Wyoming and finished a strong second in 2 states and is competitive nearly EVERYWHERE, showing he’s a tireless worker that has consistent appeal to voters. Anyone who’s ever ran a business with a product line knows that you sell the product that works for the client. Romney has a strong, reliable product line. Strongest in many areas but definitely a close second when not number one on the issuses Republican voters care about. Family, Economy, and National Security.

I agree whole-heartedly with you Christine, the news media is trying to anoint Obama as the Democratic nominee, and are giving him a free ride on criticism.
Analyzing Iowa, Obama did well and is doing so well because he tapped into the youth vote and has mobilized 17-29 year olds. It’s nice to be getting this age group involved, but I’m 48 and I see and understand things a lot differently in the world now than when I was in my 20′s. In Iowa, Obama also worked with some of the other candidates to get to be the number two on the ballots which helped his showing. IMO, they all worked together to beat Hillary, they didn’t do it on their own.

Hilary, I have sat beside my husband for 12 years as he became a doctor, but that doesn’t qualify me to perform surgery.
As far as the republicans go, In my opinion, a true president will remain calm and collected no matter who he deals with.
I would think international negotiations wouldn’t go very well if our president gets frustrated, shows his true feelings and starts calling names

All the candidates possess basic competence! Most display a handle on the issues that George W Bush, even after 8 years in the White House, does not.
This was not Hillary’s best night but just a normal Hillary night.
The problem is that while most of the other candidates have improved in there delivery she has maintained a sort of arrogance that gives me the impression that if everyone will just listen to her all will alright because Hillary knows best!
The only two candidates I will certainly not be voting for are Hillary and Mitt!
“Tomorrow will always trump yesterday” and we don’t want 8 more years of “Billary”.

Isiah-
Republicans and some Independents cross over in these caucuses to vote against a candidate just like in a primary race. There are those Republicans and Independents who despise the Clinton’s and have voted and will vote for other candidates to defeat them. The anti-Hillary spin machine is alive and well. This is what I did in Georgia in a primary, voted for a Republican in a primary up against Newt Gingrich. This is nothing new.

LaJaeric Miller, sorry, you must have missed most of my posts. Obama has heaps of the right kind of experience. I don’t buy your basic premise. I feel sorry you are actually missing the boat on this one.

Barack’s message is that he is the agent of change and I believe him. The power of America is in the voice of the people not the ruling class.
Take back America — vote Obama ’08!

I disagree with this article. Romney handled the attacks very professionally and tactfully. McCain is nothing but a bully and can not speak with a scholarly tone. Therefore McCain had to rely on personal attacks on Romney the entire night because he could not talk policy one on one with Mitt. It was very immature.

I think people care about their children too much to prevent the one candidate who would give them their brightest future from losing this campaign……thus, Senator Clinton will remain steadfast and fight for us, our children, our soldiers and America

by the way, the analysis is wrong; but it wouldn’t be the first time, and it certainly won’t be the last

i wouldn’t equate Senator Obama with the anti-American cancer that is george dumbya bush, but the initial campaign reactions are somewhat similar…..likeability is NOT a reason to choose someone as the President of the United States/Leader of the Free World/Commander in Chief……Senator Clinton is easily the best prepared and most qualified person to do the job right, and it shouldn’t be discounted or considered a jab at her that having Bill Clinton again working for the American people, as Hillary did when he was President, is one HUGE invaluable asset in the White House and on behalf of America….

I AM A 82 YEAR OLD MAN LIVING IN THIS COUNTRY FOR 55 YEARS. IN MY OPINION HILARY CLINTON IS THE MOST ADMIRABLE CANDIDATE WITH CREDENTIALS OF HARD WORK AND FAR SIGHT VISION. REMEMBER WE ARE NOT VOTING FOR ROCK- STAR WITH DRUMS AND TAP DANCING. WAKE UP YOUNG AMERICANS. LIEABILITY WITH BEAR DRINKING TOGETHER WILL NOT MAKE YOUR CHILDREN HAPPY IN FUTURE. DON’T BE SHORT-SIGHTED. OBAMA NEVER ATTENDED SENATE MEETINGS.

Mike and LaJaeric Miller, you two certainly sound sincere but we fundamentally disagree. LaJaeric, how can you on one hand support Hillary because she has Bill to listen to and then say Obama would be a puppet president with someone else pulling the strings.
Obama is all about leadership. You can disagree with me, and I am sorry you are missing out. If he was not a leader, the other candidates would not be on the change mantra.
I am also ex-military officer, and perhaps we just have a different sense about leadership. Time as a politician says nothing about leadership in my world.
Sorry I can’t continue blogging endlessly. My final point is that I’ve done lots of research and I am convinced Obama will be an outstanding President. I recommend you spend more time looking at his record outside his time as a politician.

Mike -
I too am glad to see someone mobilize younger voters as they’ve been sorely missing from politics in recent years. But I do hope they take their vote more seriously than they did in electing “The Terminator”. I don’t expect to personally “like” my candidate, but I do want to feel I can trust them to lead my country, and to treat other countries with respect. My first choice has been Dennis Kucinich whose theme is “Strength Through Peace”, which I support, but he wasn’t even allowed in the debate – ridiculous media censorship. I’m a union member and like Edwards’ fire for working people – Obama is a good speaker, but feels like a greenhorn to me. I do respect the fact that Hillary has personally met many world leaders and has a grasp of world dynamics. Having traveled quite a bit myself in South Asia and overland to Equrope, I know that travel and studyinf history and local politics does give one a much better handle to deal with issues involving those countries, as opposed to one’s travel consisting mainly of summers in Europe, for example. As someone else said, this is not a job for on-the-job training – we just wen through that for 8 years with George. It would be hard to find another equally stubborn, unbending personality, but we could be unlucky again if we’re not smart. Obama’s repeating that he would violate Pakistani territory to shoot at Bin Laden is really scary – not only that he would do that, but that he would keep repeating it to the world in advance. He seems to have no clue about national sovereignty, much less about South Asian sensitivities regarding American arrogance and invasiveness.That alone is reason enough for me not to vote for him. There is a place for youthful enthusiasm – the world stage is not one of them.

Isaiah – That was cute but i think you need to look more at qualification than who talks a good game. Like MG said would rather have a certified pilot flying the plane or a rock star with a manuel. Thats the last thing i have to say

I agree with the analysis. Although overall Rommey handled himself better than Hillary did. I’m still undecided but I was leaning Democratic but the (R)’s so outperfromed the (D)’s tonight I’m back to neutral and see more promise in a Rommey ticket if he displayed the willingness to really listen and consider what Ron Paul was asking about if the shoe was on the foot. I hope at some point during this election process the media also asks the question: If China, Japan or any other nation that heaviily invests their
capital in the US decides we are not capable of protecting that investment would you allow them to put milliary bases here. I really want to know because it seems like we are on that path. How do you justify not allowing it? How do you claim it is wrong for another country to do a preimetive strick at us because they feel threatened. Is this all we are going to be spending our tax dollars on is war for the rest of my life? I want to know.
I’m a professional female who has blazed a train of my own for 30 years in engineering and ran for local office
and won myself, so I empathize with Hillary” deeply but I don’t think she is the right person for the first woman
president. I like what I saw in a Obama/Edwards ticket or reverse because
a comprehensive effort focused on Energy, and use of new technology can solve many of our current problems if one can see them as an investment with a hard dollar return on that investment that benefits corporate and everyday people. It’s an economic sound financial choice that is profitable, creates jobs,is exportable and reduces the need for war over resources. Young people understand better how to use new technology it’s almost the only way they know, I love that about them so I’m more confident that we would really get “change”.
Immigration and it’s econmic impact is also critical and the ((D)’s aren’t even asked about it. On this I agree with Huckabee and Rommney. Illegals must be sent back. No rewards. A fine, who would not pay it versus waiting forever? That’s the kind of thinking that gets the federal government bogged down and uneffective. I agree that if it is understood that if you don’t leave you will be sent back never allowed to return no exceptions is the way to go. I hope Rommey or the (D)’s listens to Gullani on comprehensive energy and Huckabee or immigration and heathcare and Ron Paul on the fundamentals because it is true, we reap what we sow. “Peace within the walls, prosperity with our homes
(castles)”. So shall it be!

As I look back over this blog I find it quite funny and hypocritical the things that Senator Clinton is criticized for. If a woman is tough and defends herself, she is considered a B*#+#, where a man does this and he is looked on as being strong and presidential. What do we want in a President people? I like that Senator Clinton is strong and tough! In the world today, our President needs to be seen as this. The President will be staring down rogue leaders in the world as well as terrorists. They need to know our President is strong and means what they say. If Senator Clinton were soft and grand-motherly those same people criticizing her would criticize her for being to0 soft to be president. I like what someone just said, that Senator Clinton is the “best man for the job”! I think Senator Clinton needs to stop apologizing for being anything other than tough and decisive and use that to her benefit. That is what America needs at this perilous time!

Klein must not have watched the same debate I did. On the Republican side, McCain made demeaning and unprofessional comments. Have you gotten so inured to personal swipes that you didn’t notice? Romney stuck to the issues. On the Dem. side, Obama’s remark to Clinton that “you’re likable enough” sounded like a back-handed insult. Clinton’s policy discussions were informed and wide-ranging. Perhaps Obama learned that if he bombs Pakistan, he should be careful not to set off a nuclear war between India and Pakistan. Clinton’s vigorous defense of this simplistic mantra about “change” was also effective.

Here’s what I thought about the GOP debate.
McCain- Made horribly-unprofessional personal attacks against Romney, somewhat sluggish to make a point, made good comments about foreign policy but that was it, and struggled to answer questions about immigration, felt Romney put him in his place on this issue. Grade: C- (Really hurt himself w/ attacks, came across as unprepared to be president)
Thompson- Had a cool cat better-than-you attitude, made good short comments, I came away wishing he would have made a better effort, at one point I thought he had fallen asleep. Grade: B (Needs to take debates more seriously)
Paul- Was overlooked, but mainly due to his own comments, was very strong on the economy, I liked what he had to say about the American dollar, but the rest of his comments fringed on the outside of what I feel future America needs. Grade: C+ (some good ideas, but needs refining)
Romney- Handled Huckabee’s and McCain’s personal attacks very professionally with strong rebuttals, I thought he attacked McCain at one point but quickly realized he was pointing a difference in view points about immigration, what he said about America and families was wonderful, great comments about changing Washington using his record as and example of turning organizations around, fumbled with words a bit, but to be expected when defending ones self. Grade: A-(Showed leadership, look presidential, mature, had substance, and gave clear plan-based responses)
Huckabee- Only his personal attacks against Romney stand out in my memory, was a very clear speaker, although what he did say I felt like I heard it several times before, was surprised he didn’t mention religion once, that’s what he seemed to ran on in Iowa, coming out of Iowa I had hoped he’d talk about concrete plans for America like Giuliani and Romney did , don’t feel he made enough strong points to show himself as a leader. Grade: C ( Very quiet except for personal attacks, which he seemed to enjoy thoroughly )
Giuliani- One of two candidates who really explained personal plans for America (along with Romney), struggled to explain immigration in New York City, but in the end explained well enough, didn’t come across as being able to change Washington, made strong comments that showed his experience. Grade: B+ (Almost A-)( Strong points, showed leadership but not as well as Romney did)
With clearly stated plans for issues facing America, standing up for families, a defining and bold attitude, and conservative statements that really made him shine more than the other candidates ( ex. if companies are being fraudulent in transactions they should be punished, but companies should not be punished just because they are making money) Mitt Romney won this debate.

I deeply believe it’s true:
“Republicans and some Independents cross over in these caucuses to vote against a candidate just like in a primary race. There are those Republicans and Independents who despise the Clinton’s and have voted and will vote for other candidates to defeat them. The anti-Hillary spin machine is alive and well. This is what I did in Georgia in a primary, voted for a Republican in a primary up against Newt Gingrich. This is nothing new.”

L Miller, true, Richard spoke about his achievements as secretary of energy. I know he knows the issue but he did not push for it to become a part of the (D) platform as Guiliani did and they went first in the debate. J Miller I voted for Bill Clinton twice and supported Hillary in her run in New York Senator, I was educated in NY close to Albany, born and raised in DC and now I live off the air in Cincinnati. But I am not going to vote for her. All I am confortable saying is DO YOUR OWN HOMEWORK but YOU MUST DIGG DEEP,THEN you will understand the true motivation behind the resistance. I agree it appears shallow as is the effort to make Obama “appear” inexperienced. All that said.
Mitt, Obama, and Edwards are the only ones I see with realist capbilities to do what has to be done. It truely is “nothing new”.

I am not from the US but I am following the Primaries. As a non American, I would have Mitt Romney as my President any day of the week. I hope America comes to its senses and votes for Romney.

Klein has got it all wrong. I think that Hillary’s critique on Edwards’ by-now well-known lack of accomplishment during his Senate tenure, and Obama’s inconsistent and changing positions on a number of issues, is on target and justified at this stage of the primaries.
It is time to look objectively into Obama’s record to see if he’s worthy of being President. If he passes such scrutiny, well and good, he can be President. If not, then Hillary is the obvious choice.
Hillary’s life’s work and accomplishments point to the Presidency as her ultimate destiny. She’ll be a great President.
(As for Edwards, he’s an opportunist trying to position himself as a VP option for Obama. Obama will play with him, but if it should happen, I think Obama will pick someone else. Edwards won’t last past New Hampshire.

kay…Obama is all about war….use your noodle.

I thought Hillary won the debate. edwards was a joke, especially when he answered the question about his greatest achievement, which turned out to be a bill that never passed in Congress. Hillary looked disgusted about the immaturity of the other candidates, their lack of experience, and their childish manner of reciting “change, change, change” with no substance to back it up. Hillary has a record of many successes. On the republican side, I was disappointed with Ron Paul, but I love his politics so I hope the other candidates pay serious attention to his followers after the 2008 elections. McCain looked old and slow, both physically and mentally. Romney and Huckabee were sharp.

edwards looked more like a puppet of obama then a contender?did he realise that he will never win the election maybe he is trying to be vice president.Hillary was the best,this article is too biased .Hillary is the best candidate for president

Hillary proved who she really is last night.

Edwards did look like an Obama puppet. He desperately needs to kncok down Clinton if he is to stay in this race. I thought Hillary held her own and showed that she does have the strength and intelligence to be our next President. Obama was o.k but I don’t think its his time yet- he needs more experience. On the Republican side Romney looked as sneaky as I suspected he was. He was arrogant and insited that all Americans should just buy their own insurance privately. DUH- Helloooo- most of us cannot do that and we rely on our employers to help us get favorable rates. McCain was funny and although I won’t vote for him he made Romney look like an idiot. Ron Paul was GREAT- funny and liberal and he made alot of sense. Rudy was Rudy…..all he can talk about is 911- and Huckabee was pretty good although I don’t agree wit hhis views. Fred Thompso nlooked old- tired – and he definately had no problem with oil companies amassing enormous profits- shows where his loyalty would lie if he were President !! All of the Republicans were afraid to talk frankly about Bush – they were all brown nosers. Instead they brought up Ronald Reagan as if he were some real prize !!! I’d take Hillary over everyone ..she did GREAT !!

“hillary completely avoided the question to strike on Obama’s healthcare plan”…yes, that is what Hillary does. It is completely unfathomable to me that people can so clearly have the sheep pulled over their eyes by Hillary. Being the wife of a governor, then a President gives you no more “experience” to run a country than being the wife of a doctor givese you the ability to treat patients. Hillary NEVER once answers a question with how she expects to produce change. Furthermore, her attack on Obama stating that she has fought against big business and lobbyist is a complete farce. She is a staunch defender of monetary contributions from lobbyists and is very cozy with the special interest groups. Are you sure she won’t be influenced by all that money she is receiving? She receives MORE money from the healthcare industry and pharmaceutical companies than any other senator except 1. I guess that’s why she doesn’t want to talk about her plan and would rather shift attention to Obama’s lack of mandates. She talks a good talk SAYING she wants to make changes and has taken action to produce change but I”d like to actually SEE action rather than hear her state it because frankly, she’s either lying or delusional over her own failing record.

Loved GOP debate. Romney was the target because he is best and brightest choice. McCain and Huck looked silly, with their personal attacks, while trying to hide their records. NOT WORKING at all. I was laughing all the way thru huck’s health care comments. ALL people age and deteriorate. There are accidents and cancer, on and on. Our health care problems cannot be handled only by preventative health care! I enjoyed Charles Gibson and thought he did a great job. And that other guy was good too. I was moved to tears when the dems came out to greet the reps. I’m so proud to be an American! Peaceful, civil (mostly) changing of power. INCREDIBLE. That was my first dem debate. I was surprised at how unable these people will be to solve problems. I belong to the right party. Thx for these debates ABC!

Hillary stating that she being elected as a woman is a historical “first”; well what would the election of Obama be?
Hillary constantly stating that she has thirty-five years of “experience” and attempting to heap on Obama for his lack: oh please-somebody ask this woman to show where SHE fought all this change except as a board member, like so many political wives.
Hillary is sooo ole school and shows her ability to be negative with her attempts to “get into Obama’s stuff last night. Hillary broke down and showed her true negative face and many of us are tired of negative campaigning. She should stick to WHAT she is going to do better and not slide into attacking. I do not want a candidate who cannot stick to what he or she is going to do and must deflect off the issues by attacking.
The real Hillary could not hide behind this new created image and it is shameful that the men could not ask her which Hillary was making an appearance last night.
She tries to attack Obama on some of the same perceived “short coming” that her husband in name only had when he ran for and won the presidency; so she should tread lightly when trying to portray Obama as green. One day somebody will call her out on this.

ABC…it is so obvious that you are biased against Mitt Romney.John McCain was just plain childish last night,as well as “dead Fred”.Huckaberry was just plain lost in the debate.This is a left wing media driven election,and is plain obvious that they want in the two candidates that support illegal immigration.McCain and Obama!Dick Morris on Fox News,even said Mitt won this debate hands down ABC! Get off of your biggotry against Mitt.Let America choice their candidate,not your network!

Ok, Democrat in GA who has supported Edwards until switching to Obama recently, weighing in:
REPUBLICANS: I haven’t cared much for Mitt Romney, but I thought he handled himself better all things considered. I like and respect John McCain more, but he was childish at times, frankly. I don’t know how that’s going to play out in the primary, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Romney gains on McCain now. The other candidates did nothing to distinguish themselves, but they did nothing to hurt themselves either. I think Thompson probably came across more relaxed. Ron Paul is likeable, but comes across kind of scattered-brained sometimes, not in his ideas, but in his delivery.
DEMOCRATS: I don’t think anyone hurt themselves, but Edwards gave the best performance. Whether its enough to help him significantly, I don’t know. Obama stayed on his points, and Clinton made her’s, but if the goal for her was to somehow trip up or slow down Obama, I didn’t see anything that would. She had a chance if Edwards had teamed up with her, but when he attacked her for attacking Obama, that put her on the defensive for awhile, and she never really had a chance to land anything on Obama as a result. Nod to Edwards overall, but I don’t think it’ll significantly change Democrat numbers for the primary. Also a nod to Richardson who got stronger as the evening went on, but I don’t see him having a chance.

I, too, want to thank ABC, and Charlie Gibson, for the very interesting debates. I have watched almost all the debates and read as much as I can from many sources to try to sort through the ads and hype. I think that Romney has been running a negative campaign all along and it came back to him during the debates. I really think that he is hoping the rich will vote for him so he can protect their interests. I thought that McCain and, to a lesser extent, Huckabee should have refrained from jabs other than when it was their turn for rebuttal. I thought Fred Thompson was disinterested in the entire debate. I also think that Guliani needs to stop telling us what he did in NY on 911…it was only an accident of fate that he was there at that time…what would any other mayor have done…probably equally as well.
On the Democratic side, I think that Obama showed that he is intelligent and does have a good grasp of the issues. Edwards is passionate and what is wrong with doing a great job in what you do for a living…like when he was a trial lawyer. I think Clinton is banking on experience in the status quo. The child health program is almost bankrupt and is not managed very well. We do, as a nation, need changes….major changes in the entire way our bills enter the system and pass…with all the extraneous, costly garbage attached. Half the time the entire bills are not even read before before passing. The President can only do so much. As far as experience goes…the President doesn’t have to know everything, but they do need to have intelligent, knowledgeable advisers and be able to sort through the information that is passed to them when making decision. I am still undecided on my vote but this debate helped to narrow the field for me.

Fred Thompson – was he smoking his cigar? Yep, he is presidential alright. Hitch your wagon to Fred – he’s the greatest! NOT.
Where is Ronald Reagan when we need him? if y’all weren’t against cloning – just think of the possibilities?

Having seen the democratic debate, I think Hillary did probably the best of all the candidates, and in any other election her performance would probably have allowed her to recover some ground from the other candidates. She showed great knowledge of the issues, she was dead on when arguing for her track record and experience vs. what she calls “false hopes” that her adversaries are riding on. Plus, she actually has a point with Obama’s votes in Senate, which is something I hope will become a serious discussion in the coming days.
However, in my view she has a huge mountain to climb here. Obama had one moment in which he summed it all, and it was when he said “the truth is, words do inspire”. You can imagine the desperation on the Hillary camp as he said this, but it’s true: politics always implies an enormous level of persuasion (with one’s peers, one’s adversaries, as well as with the average citizen) such that things actually come to happen. However technically sound, Hillary’s message often comes across as “elect ME” because I am going to change the country FOR YOU, and Obama always ends up trouncing her with his inclusive “let’s go change the world” (as in, all of US, TOGETHER). And you know what, the indications on the type of guys he has in the field, the sheer number of small contributors to his campaign, as well as the excitement he creates among people, all clearly seem to back up the idea that he does embody a national movement for change.
The fact is, the capability to move people towards a higher goal is what politics is all about. In my opinion, Hillary happens to fail in the art of politics at its core, where one only survives if one excels in both engaging people’s aspirations (yes, mostly through oratory skills) and backing that up with hard facts whenever necessary to support one’s positions. Obama happens to thrive in this. That’s why I think he probably cannot be stopped at this point – people have started to truly believe in his message.
To be honest, if I was part of the establishment in the Democratic party, more than disappointed with Hillary’s current declining trend, I would be thankful to God that this guy was on my field and not on the other. If this movement does catch fire across the US, Obama may actually end up as president. and who knows what happens then? Maybe he’ll change the world after all.

It’s ironic to me that with all the talk of ‘spin’ from the candidates, it’s actually the media who does most of the spinning.
Every facial tick, every neance, every phrase, every context is parsed, packaged, labelled, anbd presented to us as the new dogma. The media creates the plot lines and personnas and then flogs those perceptions to death.
Obama may or may not be the fresh faced agent of change, but the media has decided that that’s what he is (or we think he is after their telling us ad nauseum), and that becomes the political paradigm.
I’ve never been more disgusted with the media inserting itself into and influencing our poilitical process than I am right now.
Tez

I’m sorry, but the Presidency is not for those in training. Obama just does not have the experience to work with other politicians to get the job done. How can you get change in a Democracy without being able to work within the system. A president cannot do anything on his agenda without the support of other politicians. What America needs is someone who can work with both parties to bring about change and that person is Hillary Clinton. She is respected by politicians from both parties. WE ARE ELECTING A PRESIDENT FOLKS NOT CHOOSING A BEST FRIEND. We elected a friend the last two elections and look what it got us—W! What was so bad about the nineties? Inflation was low, there wasn’t a deficit, no unending Iraq War, unemployment was low, stock market was up. Edwards and Obama try to make it out to be a bad period in our history, but it was an awfully good decade. IN OUR HISTORY, EXPERIENCE WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Mike,
Using your logic, George Bush was appointed President based upon his extensive experience. Look at the quagmire this country is in now as a result.
20 years of two families running the country has to end. While I voted for Bill Clinton both times, and don’t dislike Hillary, she won’t be elected becuase the right wing neocons will make the swiftboat ads against Kerry look like endorsement ads.
It is time for a change!
Obama / Edwards 08

You don’t think Obama/Edwards wouldn’t be swift boated?

I cant for the life of me understand why those campaign spinmeisters have to come to this sight and spin their candidates perforomance…OH, I see, because they MUST in order to have any semblance of reality interjected to an otherwise fanciful analysis. I am so disappointed that the press’ interjects of itself into the campaign mode for the candidates the analysts support, it truly is a sad situation. I do hope the astute voters of NH will distinguish what they saw from what they are being told they saw.

“Obama scares the **** out of me. His name is Barack Hussein Obama yet no mention of that in the press lately.”
Hey “none” Mitt Romney doesn’t have a middle name, yet no mention of that in the press lately.

John Mccain showed his true colors during the debate. He is known for being a snippy, cynical man. These debates are about serious issues. He should have more respect for the office he is running for. Mitt definitely came out the winner of the gop debate.
If I were a democrat, I would vote for Edwards. Obama is all hot air. Hillary came across as abrasive. She spends half of her time talking about Bush. Hillary doesnt need to tell the democrats what Bush did wrong. She needs to tell what she is going to do.
As for people making changes on positions. There is a difference between a flip flopper and a change. A flip flopper is what Hillary does. She changes positions according to what group she is talking to. I dont mind someone changing their position once during their career. Those people probably understand both sides of the issue more than someone who held one position their whole life.

The democrats have to win in November they promised to make the country into a welfare state and I like that.

Hilary,Obama and Edwards have promised free medical care for everyone, so my vote goes to one of these. By the way this will cost taxpayers more money so who cares.

One only has to read the comments here to see the disconnect between viewers and media. Howard Kurtz, “Reliable Sources” on CNN explained it this morning. The media has been noticeably chilly towards Romney and refusing to give him any of the support for a comeback that they lavish on others. The best explanation an obviously uncomfortable negative panelist could come up with for the palpable dislike is the media thought him “too polished”. It was clear win for Romney last night. Look at the focus group live ratings for the night! I have been a McCain supporter until I saw him behaving like a kindegartner last night. He couldn’t have looked more juvenile if he had jumped out of his seat and sprinted around the room high fiving after he thought he scored. It was gratuitous and petty. He may be the only one who has a chance of beating a Dem, but I don’t know if I can get that image out of my mind.

THIS ARTICLE, AND THE MEDIA IN GENERAL, IS SPINNING WHAT WAS A POSITIVE DEBATE FOR ROMNEY. HE HANDLED HIMSELF EXTREMELY WELL, FOCUSING ON THE ISSUES, AND NOT STOOPING TO THE LEVEL OF HIS ATTACKERS. MCCAIN ACTED LIKE A 4TH GRADER! WHY CAN’T THE MEDIA GET IT RIGHT?!

Which candidate in either party would you most trust in a crisis situation with foreign heads of state (with finger on the hot button)?
Which candidate has consistently maintained self-control while under verbal attack?
What do people in foreign countries think of our candidates, based on their dancing, guitar playing, flip-flopping, and back-stabbing?
If you were a foreign head of state, which candidate would you be most likely to trust?

Daniel Rathman-
Nice spin Daniel! The facts-
“The CNN-WMUR poll conducted Friday night and Saturday afternoon showed the two in a tight race, each with 33 percent support. A second poll, from The Concord Monitor and Research 2000, shows Obama at 34 and Clinton at 33.”

I remember Bill Clinton did not win in New Hampshire or Iowa but went on to win the nomination and then on to the Presidency.
The Iowa primary IS just a public relations primary and the New Hampshire primrary is slowly becoming one. The REAL primaries are the ones that come later.
As for the debates, the only accomplishment the candidates will achieve by making “blistering” personal attacks on other candidates belonging to the same party is to divide their party and make it harder for their nominee to win.

If Obama wins…it wouldn’t surprise me. People in the United States are so shortsighted and easily swayed by political manipulation.
How else do you explain George Bush being elected TWICE…?!
The same George Bush that was able to get the support of so many Americans in his goal of going to war with Iraq AND alienating the rest of the world in the process.
Barack Obama is a wonderful orator and appeals to so many of the younger generation with his broad smile and poised look. However…I am DONE with people who…like George Bush… does not have the credentials or experience to run this country.
If Barack Obama had Hilliary Clinton’s experience and record of fighting the “bad guys” in Washington…I would be voting for Barack Obama. He doesn’t and I won’t.
The job of President of the United States should not be entrusted to someone who spent so much time hanging around students and teaching students instead of GROWING UP in the real world of Washington.
Obama for President…another mistake by the American people.