By Dotcomabc

Apr 26, 2008 4:57pm

Clinton Challenges Obama to a ‘Lincoln-Douglas’ Debate

ABC News’ Eloise Harper and Sunlen Miller report: The Hillary Clinton campaign has challenged Sen. Barack Obama to a debate with no moderators, in the spirit of Lincoln-Douglas.

Speaking in South Bend, Ind., Sen. Clinton said, “What I think the people in Indiana deserve is a real one-on-one debate, where Sen. Obama and I discuss [the] issues. Now I have accepted the debates that have been offered, and in fact Indiana has a debate commission which organizes this to make sure it’s fair and nobody gets any special advantages. I’ve said I’ll be anywhere, anytime in order to debate, because I think the people of Indiana — after having wandered in the wilderness of American politics for 40 years — deserve a break. Who knows, we might even carry Indiana in the fall if we start with a good debate right here."

Clinton continued, “Unfortunately, Sen. Obama has not agreed yet, and he’s turned down every debate that has been offered. So here I have a proposition my campaign sent his campaign today. You know, after the last debate in Philadelphia, Sen. Obama’s supporters complained a little bit about the tough questions (awwwwwww heard in the audience). You know tough questions in a debate are nothing compared to the tough questions you get when you are president.”

Clinton challenged Obama, saying, “And they complained about the moderators asking tough questions. So here is my proposal: I’m offering Sen. Obama the chance to debate me one-on-one, no moderators.  Just the two of us going for 90 minutes asking and answering questions. We’ll set whatever rules seem fair. I think it would give the people of Indiana — and I assume a few Americans will tune in because nearly 11 million watched the Philadelphia debate, and I think they would like seeing that discussion. Remember that’s what happened during the Lincoln and Douglas debates. Now we have had like four debates between Sen. Obama and myself.”

Robert Gibbs, communications director for Obama’s campaign, responded to Clinton’s debate challenge Saturday afternoon in a paper statement.

"We have participated in 21 nationally televised debates, the most in primary history, including four exclusively with Sen. Clinton. Sen. Clinton refused an earlier invitation that had been accepted to debate in North Carolina. Over the next 10 days, we believe it’s important to talk directly to the voters of Indiana and North Carolina about fixing our economy, cutting the cost of health care and ending a war in Iraq that never should have been authorized in the first place," Gibbs said.

Here is the letter that Clinton’s campaign sent to the Obama campaign:

April 26, 2008
David Plouffe, Campaign Manager
Obama for America
P.O. Box 8102
Chicago, IL 60680

Dear David:
The attention, excitement and energy around this presidential election is unprecedented. The stakes could not be higher for our country and the American people. The economy is sliding into recession, our men and woman in the Armed Forces are fighting two wars abroad, and our country is reeling from the harsh legacy of the Bush-Cheney Administration. The American people are choosing a direction for their children and families. They have a right to hear from those who want to be their leaders. Our Democratic primaries reflect the keen interest of the American citizenry in this election. Our primaries have brought millions of new people into the political process and invigorated a national conversation about the best solutions to meet our challenges.

Senator Clinton believes deeply that political debates are a vital part of our democratic process. It is the American way to place our would-be leaders side by side to hear them articulate and defend their ideas; to challenge each other on their visions for the future; to answer the tough questions about their plans, their records and their judgments; and to celebrate their achievements.

enator Obama has declined the invitation from CBS and the North Carolina Democratic Party to appear for a debate at North Carolina State University tomorrow evening. Senator Obama has apparently declined the invitation of the Indiana Debate Commission to appear for a debate in Indiana next week. Senator Obama has not responded to Senator Clinton’s challenge to debate in Oregon. Will there be no debates in other upcoming states? The American people, of course, deserve more. They deserve debates before casting their votes. They deserve debates just like the states who have participated in this invigorating process before them.

I understand that Senator Obama has raised the point that there have already been more than 20 debates this election cycle. However, only four of those have been between Senator Obama and Senator Clinton. We can all agree that many important issues have received scant attention during previous debates, including such important topics as education and the energy crisis.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates, a series of public debates across Illinois where two candidates put their ideas, their visions, and their values before the American people. I have no doubt that Senator Obama, who hails from that great state, understands how valuable and vital these national conversations were to the heart of America. We can surely meet the standard our forbearers did. Our final two primary candidates to date have had three fewer debates than Lincoln and Douglas held in single state over 60 days in 1858.

And if we debate, Americans will come. Recent debates have attracted record numbers of viewers – more than 10 million for the last one. And a great number of voters in recent primaries have said that the debates in their states were important to their decision.

Senator Obama himself suggested the last debate in Philadelphia did not provide enough opportunity to talk about issues that “matter[] to the American people.” A Lincoln-Douglas style debate would certainly provide that opportunity. There would be no questions from the media. There would be equal time and equal opportunity to grapple with the important policy questions we are facing today. As Douglas put it, the two candidates would meet “for the purpose of discussing the leading political topics which now agitate the public mind.”

In the spirit of the Lincoln-Douglas debates, we make this proposal:
Senator Clinton and Senator Obama will participate in a 90-minute debate in an open public forum. Just the two of them — no questioners, no panelists, no video clips. One candidate would speak for two minutes, then the other, alternating back and forth all the way through the debate. Their discussion – not any pre-set rules – would determine how long they spend on one subject before moving on to another. Such a debate would range across all of the challenges, large and small, we face as a nation or it could focus on the most significant issue we face today — the economy.

We can readily agree on a host, a place, a date, and a broadcaster or series of broadcasters.

Both of our candidates are making history. Let us continue to do so. Let’s debate.

Sincerely,
Maggie Williams
Campaign Manager

User Comments

There’s no way Obama will agree to another debate after he got his clocked ticked on the ABC debate. No way!

Posted by: S | April 26, 2008, 5:09 pm 5:09 pm

21.
I know that the Clinton camp doesn’t like those messy thinigs like numbers.
But…
That is the number of debates that have already taken place.

Posted by: L | April 26, 2008, 5:12 pm 5:12 pm

Obama would lose his train of thought and be lost.

Posted by: seah | April 26, 2008, 5:13 pm 5:13 pm

The debate Clinton is proposing would be WITHOUT moderators. No wonder Obama would decline. No wonder at all!

Posted by: Aston | April 26, 2008, 5:16 pm 5:16 pm

This from the woman who, just a month or so ago, was ducking debates herself!
Now, she needs the free air time a debate would offer.
But the debates so far, particularly the last one, but really all of them, have offered little on the issues. There’s no reason to believe that Hillabeans will want to stick to the real issues.
And it’d be good if she’d figure out WHERE she wants to debate. So far, at least three states have been mentioned. They could probably spend the next eight days debating from NC to OR and on to Puerto Rico!!!! But WHY?!?
Obama 2008 — Yes, WE CAN!!!

Posted by: Jackt51 -- Vietnam Vet and Proud Liberal | April 26, 2008, 5:18 pm 5:18 pm

SHE WILL DO ANYTHING OR SAY ANYTHING TO GET A DEBATE >>>SHE HAS NO MONEY HER WAY OF GETTING FREE ADS,IF I WERE HIM I WOULD SAY NO WAY BUT THANK YOU BUSY TRYING TO ATTACK THE TROUBLES OF THIS COUNTRY SO THE PEOPLE WILL KNOW WHAT I AM GOING TO DO MY FIRST 100 DAYS IN OFFICE ….NANNANNAANNAANNAANNANNAA

Posted by: h | April 26, 2008, 5:20 pm 5:20 pm

Obama is a baby!

Posted by: Edwin | April 26, 2008, 5:21 pm 5:21 pm

If OBama cannot stand up and debate with Hillary … what can he do for this country when the real time comes to stand up.
It is scary to let Obama be the one who will decide for all of us.
No to Obama

Posted by: Jack | April 26, 2008, 5:25 pm 5:25 pm

Hey folks, did you hear? Obama will never again use laptops because his laptop had the temerity to crash on him last evening. Awwwwww.

Posted by: UM | April 26, 2008, 5:26 pm 5:26 pm

The questions from the last debate weren’t “hard”, they were stupid, plain and simple. I agree, no more debates–save the yakety-yak for the convention.

Posted by: April Campbell | April 26, 2008, 5:27 pm 5:27 pm

LOL This isnt going to happen. Hillary needs money and a debate just gives her free press and more money. after 21 debates what else can be said? now she wants no moderators? yeah right. He said he will grant her one after the next two primaries so sit with that and keep moving

Posted by: Allamr18 | April 26, 2008, 5:27 pm 5:27 pm

I would love to see another debate. I think they should debate as often as possible so we can see what Obama is made of.

Posted by: Paul'stheName | April 26, 2008, 5:28 pm 5:28 pm

Theres 50 states. I say 50 debates.
And they should all count ! !

Posted by: KURT | April 26, 2008, 5:29 pm 5:29 pm

Obama is done debating. After his last flop performance, he brushed himself off, gave Hillary the finger and clinged to the teleprompter.

Posted by: hopesprings52 | April 26, 2008, 5:29 pm 5:29 pm

Why in the world would Obama do Clinton any favors at this point?
Any reasonable candidate would have let go of selfish interests and did what was best for the Democratic party by now (i.e., concede). But Clinton feels entitled to be president (weird as that sounds).
Reality = It is a mathematical certainty that Obama will be ahead in pledged delegates at convention time. The only way Clinton wins is if the superdelegates steal it from Obama, despite his lead (which isnt even realistic, given the obvious and serious consequences that would follow [e.g., huge backslide in race relations in America, huge defection of Democrats of any color, embarassment for America in the world community, vast elation among republicans). The Clintons (or there behind the scenes surrogates) know this and therefore are now simply trying to get Obama swift-boated to the point of some kind of disqualification. Sad but true.
Stop the drama. Vote Obama!!!

Posted by: Mike Denhof | April 26, 2008, 5:33 pm 5:33 pm

It would just be a mud fest. Just one more degradation of the political process. This thing needs to end.

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 5:34 pm 5:34 pm

How about giving the people of Indiana the courtesy of a debate.

Posted by: KURT | April 26, 2008, 5:36 pm 5:36 pm

What about debates? How relevant will this be to governace?
Hillary Clinton displays this arrogance of know it all. Is the American society lacking in great ideas? No No No.
What is lacking is good leadership which Obama has already shown in the management of his Campaign. Clinton has shown that she cannot even run her campaign and now relies on mudslinging to get attention.

Posted by: Churchill | April 26, 2008, 5:37 pm 5:37 pm

Who wants another debate after 21. I don’t.
I really don’t think that people care one way or the other.

Posted by: Stacey | April 26, 2008, 5:37 pm 5:37 pm

DEBATES OR NOT DEBATES OBAMA IS A TOAST!!!!!!!
OBAMA IS UNELECTABLE IN NOVEMBER.
HE CARRIES A BIG BAD,BAD,BAD RECORD IN HIS RESUME……
WHITE VOTERS WILL NOT VOTE FOR OBAMA.
HOPE,CHANGE=SLOGANS……
I’M INDEPENDENT VOTER AND I WLL NEVER,NEVER VOTE FOR OBAMA…..

Posted by: NIcholas | April 26, 2008, 5:38 pm 5:38 pm

Please democrats — nominate Obama. Pretty please. Then, say hello to president McCain!

Posted by: A | April 26, 2008, 5:39 pm 5:39 pm

@red, I choose not to debate you.

Posted by: KURT | April 26, 2008, 5:39 pm 5:39 pm

This whole process has turned into a three ring Circus. I do not know any longer if these are the clowns or the freak show out there, but it is anything but a campaign. This is begining to drive voters away

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 5:40 pm 5:40 pm

Debates are indispensable venues through which we the voters evaluate presidential candidates. As an American, I have a serious problem with a candidate who avoids debates. If Obama does not have anything to hide, he must not be scared of any debate format. Obama’s attitude is forcing me to take a serious look at Hillary Clinton or John McCaine as viable choices. Adding what Rev.Jeremiah Wright just said about Obama being a typical politician, I have serious doubts about the candidate’s judgement and sincerity. I will consider voting for him if he clears all these messy and shady dealigns he had in the past before we go to the polls on May 6. Believe me, I am not the only one who feels this way in my town.

Posted by: Jim in North Carolina | April 26, 2008, 5:40 pm 5:40 pm

The only people who think Obama lost the last debate are the ones who didn’t even watch it. Even the ABC News Poll on abcnews.com showed Obama as the clear winner.
It took 45 minutes before a single REAL issue was talked about. Is that what we need, wasted time not talking about the issues affecting our country? Of course Obama is going to pass up another debate like that one that doesn’t focus on what America needs.
OBAMA ’08

Posted by: Patrick | April 26, 2008, 5:41 pm 5:41 pm

Obama would only agree if he was allowed to have answers flashed to him on a teleprompter, or David Axelrod could give him the answers through an ear piece. Because we all know Obama is just a mouth piece for the radical left wing of the party.

Posted by: frisco girl | April 26, 2008, 5:42 pm 5:42 pm

All you Obamaheads want these 5 month old things to go away, like REV wright, or his middle name… It has just started… What are you going to do in the G.E. ?

Posted by: KURT | April 26, 2008, 5:43 pm 5:43 pm

This debate challenge is a very smart move by Hillary. It puts Obama in a position to either accept and quit crying about the questions he gets, or to decline and show his inability to stand on his own without a prepared speech and teleprompter.

Posted by: John Icard | April 26, 2008, 5:44 pm 5:44 pm

debate about what? get out of here hillary and get over it (your loss)

Posted by: sam | April 26, 2008, 5:44 pm 5:44 pm

Obama is in trouble big time with Rev. Wright talking to the press and that ad about Rev. Wright and Obama running in NC. There are many working-class, small town, Americans who are not happy with the Anti-American and racist remarks that have come from Rev. Wright, Barack and Michelle Obama.

Posted by: Jeff | April 26, 2008, 5:45 pm 5:45 pm

This debate challenge is a very smart move by Hillary. It puts Obama in a position to either accept and quit crying about the questions he gets, or to decline and show his inability to stand on his own without a prepared speech and teleprompter.

Posted by: John Icard | April 26, 2008, 5:45 pm 5:45 pm

Rookie U.S. Senator Obama is afraid to debate Hillary Clinton.
Why? Because Obama doesn’t want to answer any questions about why he associated with black nationalists, communists, socialists, and other radical left wingers for his entire life.

Posted by: USmarine0331 | April 26, 2008, 5:46 pm 5:46 pm

Enough is enough, Hillary! You’ve already proven that you will do ANYTHING to win the White House, including lying through your teeth! Debates will do nothing for you except reveal more of your lies. It’s high time you backed out with some dignity, before you and your husband lose what dignity you have left. Obama for ’08!!

Posted by: Hightower | April 26, 2008, 5:46 pm 5:46 pm

lucky59,
You sound like you are a great judge of character. —NOT

Posted by: Mike | April 26, 2008, 5:47 pm 5:47 pm

Apparently, after a lifetime of telling lies and betraying people, Hillary Clinton seems to be stuck in political purgatory. Seems she is on her way to hell. Hopefully the good people of Indiana well put her out of her misery.

Posted by: John | April 26, 2008, 5:47 pm 5:47 pm

Both of you need to Shut-up and sit down. There needs to be more RULES about when and how long you all can TORTURE us with this constant invasion into our heads. Stop already! McCain IS going to win anyway!

Posted by: Nails On a Chaulk Board | April 26, 2008, 5:49 pm 5:49 pm

Obama always makes his own agenda more important than the democratic election process… he refuses to let Florida and Michigan voters to vote… he now refuses to do the rest if the debates… Who is this pansy and why is he allowed to singlehandedly change the rules?

Posted by: Mysty | April 26, 2008, 5:50 pm 5:50 pm

The inquisition-type of debate like that used in Pennsylvania is not really a debate of substance. Debates should be on issues that really matter.

Posted by: NBDiaz | April 26, 2008, 5:52 pm 5:52 pm

Why in the world would Clinton do Obama any favors at this point?
Any reasonable candidate would have let go of selfish interests and did what was best for the Democratic party by now (i.e., concede).
Reality = It is a mathematical certainty that Clinton will be ahead in pledged delegates at convention time. The only way Obama wins is if the superdelegates steal it from Clintona, despite his lead (which isnt even realistic, given the obvious and serious consequences that would follow [e.g., huge backslide in race relations in America, huge defection of Democrats of any color, embarassment for America in the world community, vast elation among republicans). The Obamas (or there behind the scenes surrogates) know this and therefore are now simply trying to get Clinton swift-boated to the point of some kind of disqualification. Sad but true.
Stop the drama. Vote Clinton 08!!!

Posted by: ruthie | April 26, 2008, 5:54 pm 5:54 pm

Umbria said: Hillary wins: California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Ohio, Texas, Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania.
SOrry Umbria, but if she didn’t win her home state, it would be a shocker. She didn’t win Florida or Michigan, and Texas is going to go Republican.
Posted by: Roger | Apr 26, 2008 5:47:11 PM
————————————
Then why did Obama scuttle the rematch? Why did he kill the revotes? You have to be a political novice or intellectually dishonest not to concede that with it’s high density of latinos/immigrants and seniors she will wallop Obama by double digits. Of all the big states Florida is one where she can beat McCain but Obama doesn’t have a prayer. SO LET’S BE HONEST HERE. As simple as this:
Hillary = California, New York, Illinois, New Jersey, Massachusetts, at least 3 out of (Ohio, Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania) = Coalition based on Blue or Big Battlegroud States = Presidency. GUARANTEED.
Obama: California, New York, Illinois, Massachusetts, some complicated coalition of other states. MAYBE, MAYBE NOT.

Posted by: Umbria | April 26, 2008, 5:55 pm 5:55 pm

Obama was in the senate for 3 weeks before he started running for president… he has NOE EXPERIENCE. All we have to go on is his character and judgement. With all of the racists , Muslims and terrorists that surround him… Barak HUSSEIN Obama is unelectable and he knows it. The media couldn’t protect him anymore after the Saturday Night Live parody about how much the media glorifies him and demonizes Hillary… The ABC debate was the first time some of these big issues came out on a channel that democrats actually watch. He has been exposed… and he does not want to be exposed anymore through debating. Bravo ABC for asking the RIGHT questions… we need to know who this man is… and he looks scarier evrytime we learn something more about him. If he is our candidate, McCain will slaughter him in the general elction. Obama is UNELECTABLE.

Posted by: Mysty | April 26, 2008, 5:55 pm 5:55 pm

Apparently, after a lifetime of telling lies and betraying people, Barck Obama seems to be stuck in political purgatory. Seems he is on his way to hell. Hopefully the good people of Indiana well put him out of his misery.
Vote Hillary 08!

Posted by: ruthie | April 26, 2008, 5:56 pm 5:56 pm

This is pure Clinton genius. It’s a civilized version of challenging O bama to a street fight. If he’s not up to th challenge he loses but if he backs down then he loses and is a coward.
Bravo Hillary!

Posted by: dave | April 26, 2008, 5:56 pm 5:56 pm

NO MORE DEBATES,
WE HAVE HEARD 20 DEBATES AND THERE IS NOTHING NEW….WE KNOW WHERE ALL THE CANDIDATES STAND ON ENERGY AND EDUCATION….SO THERE IS NO EXCUSE FOR CLINTON DEBATING OBAMA
THE LAST DEBATE WAS DESIGNED TO ASSASSINATE OBAMA’S CHARACTER BY FORMER CLINTON AIDES…..NO MORE PERSONAL ATTACKS..
THAT IS WHAT CLINTON WANTS…TO MAKE PERSONAL ATTACKS ON NATIONAL TV..
SORRY CLINTON, IT WONT HAPPEN
NICE MOVE OBAMA…WE ARE FED UP WITH THESE DEBATES
IN THE NATIONS HISTORY…THIS IS THE MOST DEBATES WE HAVE HAD…NO MORE
GO OBAMA
YES WE CAN

Posted by: Edwards | April 26, 2008, 5:56 pm 5:56 pm

Oh i bet if Obama was doing fine and was holding his own in the debates, he would be agreeing to more debates. He has done sooo poorly and doesn’t like to be surprised with question, instead he likes to be aware and in control always. Well, then President isn’t the job for you Obama. You are soo inexperienced Obama, in my opinion you will not win.
Rise Hillary Rise

Posted by: Persio | April 26, 2008, 5:57 pm 5:57 pm

Obama is too chicken. Plus who could sit through another round of his studdering and stammering…..
______________________________
Don’t Get Mad….Get Strong
Hillary ’08

Posted by: AK | April 26, 2008, 5:57 pm 5:57 pm

A Win Win for Hillery

Posted by: Darrel | April 26, 2008, 5:57 pm 5:57 pm

As John McCain said, “If wrestle in the mud with a pig, you are both going to get dirty. The biggest problem that is that the pig enjoys it.”

Posted by: John | April 26, 2008, 5:57 pm 5:57 pm

Obama always makes his own agenda more important than the democratic election process… he refuses to let Florida and Michigan voters to vote… he now refuses to do the rest if the debates… Who is this pansy and why is he allowed to singlehandedly change the rules?

Posted by: misty | April 26, 2008, 5:57 pm 5:57 pm

When the democratic nominee is decided, the losers will quickly kiss and make up. The loser’s followers (AKA lemmings) will not only follow suit, they’ll sweat the differences between the two candidates were merely superficial.
And who said the democrats don’t have heart-felt principles and iron clad convictions?.

Posted by: S | April 26, 2008, 5:58 pm 5:58 pm

Anybody inspired by the empty filthy
rhetoric that comes out of Mr. Obama’s
mouth??

Posted by: raquela | April 26, 2008, 5:59 pm 5:59 pm

Poor old Barack
It is time for him to step up and debate. The states deserve it. And we are beginning to see he cannot handle it

Posted by: susanc | April 26, 2008, 6:01 pm 6:01 pm

Actually Obama’s loss in Pa. was much worse than it appeared. If you take the Philadelphia area out, where he was boosted by the Black vote, he lost most of Pa. by 20%-50%. That is a staggering number that will get worse when Republicans join in come November.

Posted by: beo | April 26, 2008, 6:02 pm 6:02 pm

Obama knows that he doesn’t have the mental wherewithall to compete in that
scenario. He will never agree to that.
Even though Michelle has no credibility
she would be a better prospect for a debate than Barry.

Posted by: BikernAz | April 26, 2008, 6:03 pm 6:03 pm

If Obama were a legitimate opponent, then I would favor a debate, but he has shown that he is not up to a debate on the issues. He only wants attention b/c he has lost this race, and he is trying to seize control. But when he is given even a modicum of respect, he abuses it to sling mud. I don’t think there is any value in giving Obama the dignity of debating anyone but another dupe.
Vote Hillary 08!!

Posted by: laura | April 26, 2008, 6:04 pm 6:04 pm

Hillary get a life and just keep on stumping – maybe you can debate Bill. I want you to stop asking Obama for debates. Tell Maggie to stop sending Obama requests for a debate.

Posted by: Deborah | April 26, 2008, 6:05 pm 6:05 pm

He is a coward, period. He lost to her face to face in the PA debate, and then acts like a “real man” and gives her the finger behind her back in a speech in North Carolina the next day. Now he doesn’t want any more face to face debates! No wonder he can’t get the blue collar vote – they don’t vote for wimps, they don’t vote for cowards.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 26, 2008, 6:05 pm 6:05 pm

Mr. Obama aint no president!!!

Posted by: ebony | April 26, 2008, 6:06 pm 6:06 pm

Barack Obama should not lower himself to associating or debating with Hillary Clinton. Hillary immediately draws any discussion down into her gutter. However a debate between Obama and McCain would be more interesting, and would be a welcome break from the horrible politics that has been going on. It would be more on the level of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates.

Posted by: John | April 26, 2008, 6:06 pm 6:06 pm

Frankly, Obama’s negatives are simply
overwhelming at this point…
Vote Hillary 08!!

Posted by: earl | April 26, 2008, 6:07 pm 6:07 pm

No moderators? Isn’t that called a shouting match?

Posted by: Dali | April 26, 2008, 6:08 pm 6:08 pm

ABC News is Fox News II. You guys are hilarious. No more debates from the Republican Hillary Clinton.

Posted by: Charlie | April 26, 2008, 6:08 pm 6:08 pm

Obama — put up or shut up. Or, to put it another way, debate or run from debate!
That is the question.

Posted by: S | April 26, 2008, 6:08 pm 6:08 pm

Debate without moderators?!!
What is next? Let’s get into a boxing ring?!!!
I’m not opposed to debates, but how many do we need?
Debate for the sake of debating is stupid.
Obama should ignore her attacks and talk to people directly.
Negative ads only work if you respond to them. Stay focus on the message. Expose her flawed (identical to Bush) foreign policy. She is finished anyway. Don’t bring yourslef to her level.

Posted by: Adam | April 26, 2008, 6:09 pm 6:09 pm

Hillary Clinton should not lower himself to associating or debating with Barack Obama. Obama immediately draws any discussion down into her gutter. However a debate between Clinton and McCain would be more interesting, and would be a welcome break from the horrible politics that has been going on. It would be more on the level of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates.
Vote Hillary 08!!

Posted by: earl | April 26, 2008, 6:09 pm 6:09 pm

Before Barack turns the offer down,
someone should explain to him who Lincoln and Douglas were and just how historic it was.

Posted by: BikernAz | April 26, 2008, 6:12 pm 6:12 pm

It takes 2025 delegates to win the nomination. The press has bought into the Obama spin that because he is ahead he should get the nomination. In reality, they’re in a virtual tie. The rules never said that the person in the lead gets it, they say you need 2025. After that there needs to be a floor fight at the convention.

Posted by: cda | April 26, 2008, 6:14 pm 6:14 pm

obama is a total wimp. He already said “no more debate between now and IN primary”. He finally agreed to go on fox news after 772 days fox news tried to get him on. However, with a condition that this interview had to be taped today saturday and air tomorrow sunday. Not LIVE!! He scares of going on Live television now. Not only he’s a radical leftist but also wimpier than Jimmy carter. He will break Jimmy Carter’s record. OH, HAMAS ENDORSED OBAMA! I bet they can tell that Obama is very similar to Carter, who is willing to make a fool of himself talking to them and accomplish nothing but boost their ego and arrogance.

Posted by: hannah | April 26, 2008, 6:14 pm 6:14 pm

Mr. Obama things he is smarter
than most americans … LOL

Posted by: hottie | April 26, 2008, 6:15 pm 6:15 pm

Why is it so hard for Obama
to admit he is way over his head??

Posted by: raquela | April 26, 2008, 6:17 pm 6:17 pm

The vitriol in some of the comments here is the reason our country is in this sad shape. Why do we all sound like Limbaugh followers?

Posted by: worldsam | April 26, 2008, 6:17 pm 6:17 pm

We could all see a debate for the next week or so if she would start talking issues.

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 6:17 pm 6:17 pm

How in the world can anyone support or make excuses for a man who is obviuosly afraid to debate for the Presidency of the United States of America? I don’t know which is more appaling his cowardisness or the lack of common sense of his supporters.

Posted by: Tanya Kujath | April 26, 2008, 6:18 pm 6:18 pm

I can’t wait to see the looks on the faces of Obama supporters when the Hillary supporters vote for McCain and he wins in November

Posted by: hattrick | April 26, 2008, 6:23 pm 6:23 pm

Frankly, Mr. Obama’s negatives
are simply overwhelming at this point…

Posted by: Rosalita | April 26, 2008, 6:24 pm 6:24 pm

A win for McCain would be a disaster for the country, but still better than Hillary.

Posted by: John | April 26, 2008, 6:25 pm 6:25 pm

I’m at a loss with Hillary people.
On what ground she is more qualified?
Since she’s been in senate her only major accomplishments are voting for war and cointinuing to support it at the cost of our economy.
I guess that’s how it works. First break it. Then claim you can fix it.
The best form of goverment for US is a Democratic president where foreign policy looms large and Republican congress where fiscal responsiblity counts.
Hillary is not qualified to be in either places. Period.

Posted by: Adam | April 26, 2008, 6:26 pm 6:26 pm

This is a complete joke. Over 20 debates now and Hillary thinks that somehow one more is going to turn things around for her? Such a desperate attempt to trap Obama and strangle him any way she can. Obama is smart to stay out of it.

Posted by: what a joke | April 26, 2008, 6:28 pm 6:28 pm

No way Obama will get more than 40
percent in the general if he is elected… He’ll be in jail…

Posted by: June | April 26, 2008, 6:30 pm 6:30 pm

Personally I don’t care to watch Obama say………ummmmmm, ahhhh,ummmm,ahhhh…………If he can’t read a script he can’t think for himself. The next president has to be able to be quick / accurate when thinking and talking with other world leaders. Obama just does not come across that way, to me.
The last debate showed his uneasiness with the hard questions, reguardless of content. He also did not seem to be able to respond when pressed and appeared to want to duck the question, just another typical politician?
More and more we see the real Obama when he is pressed and that is what he is trying to avoid with another debate, even though the Clinton camp is going to make it easy for him. Give Hillary credit for having the spirit and moxy to engage in debate. She is no wimp and her style is to engage, not evade.
Obama you want to get the white working man’s vote? Then show yourself as confident and strong to debate the woman, one on one. And that is precisely one of the reason I can’t vote for you, you just don’t show the toughness needed to be president.

Posted by: Average Joe | April 26, 2008, 6:30 pm 6:30 pm

A win for McCain would be a disaster for the country, but still better than Hillary.
Posted by: John | Apr 26, 2008 6:25:26 PM
========================================
The REAL disaster will be an Obama presidency!! Jimmy Carter 2.0!!! But thankfully it ain’t going to happen…With his current baggage Obama can win a real election ….may be………for a senate seat in Vermont or Mayoral election in San Francisco!!

Posted by: dem | April 26, 2008, 6:31 pm 6:31 pm

Adam asked:I’m at a loss with Hillary people.On what ground she is more qualified? Well for one think she is not a bigot who describes someone as a “typical White person.”

Posted by: deo | April 26, 2008, 6:31 pm 6:31 pm

Obama is between a rock and a hard place here. He knows Hillary will clean his clock in any debate. And if he refuses he will be viewed as being afraid of debating and/or a chicken. The American public is not naive in seeing this. So come on Axelrod what will be least damaging? By ignoring this, it will not go away. I love this! Show your colors!

Posted by: David Thorson | April 26, 2008, 6:32 pm 6:32 pm

This is hard to beleave a 30sec sound bite, or 30 years of knowing someone before passing judgment I quess this country wants 4 more years of the mess we are in now from the GOP. As far as the experience issue, who has experience any way to be POTUS. The entire world is watching yes I’m voting for Obama

Posted by: Arthur Diggs | April 26, 2008, 6:33 pm 6:33 pm

Julie said: On what ground is he more qualified?
On foreign policy. As for the rest, they have identical policies anyway.

Posted by: Adam | April 26, 2008, 6:34 pm 6:34 pm

21 debates so far. Anyone wanting more of that is a masochist. Let’s get serious … do you really believe there are many undecided voters out there?

Posted by: DennisNC | April 26, 2008, 6:50 pm 6:50 pm

Obama is not ducking debates. He is using an excellent strategy and will hopefully wrap up the nomination soon. HRC wants debates because she is low on money due to her own mismanagement and it is free coverage. Obama can run TV ads and get his message out at will. Plus, she knows that she will likely get more help from biased moderators who continue to perpetuate the lies and misrepresentations about him that have been in the media based on selective editing of comments made by Rev Wright. See the comments made by Rev. Wright’s sermon IN CONTEXT on Bill Moyers interview. You will find, as usual, we the American public are being made fools of by a media that does not bother to tell us the whole truth and others that just want to win any cost. We are not stupid, we can handle the truth about our country. The good and the bad. We don’t need the continuing series of lies and out of context misquotations. Even with all the negative attacks on Obama and the fact that he is running against 3 politicians at this point (HRC, BC and McSame), he has still won. He has the most pledged delegates and they can’t change that. Odds are almost zero that she can catch up. She can use what ever math she wants, she will not win if the DNC follow the rules. The only way for HRC to win is to steal it in the back room. If the voters allow this to happen then we get what we deserve, more of the same (McSame).

Posted by: NotSuprised | April 26, 2008, 6:50 pm 6:50 pm

Gosh, why is barack obama so afraid of Hillary? Why cant he look Hillary in the eye? Why does he attack her only when her back is turned? Is barack obama a man or a mouse?

Posted by: andrea | April 26, 2008, 6:52 pm 6:52 pm

John_Lai, “If OBama cannot stand up and debate with Hillary”??? What part of 21 debates so far do you not understand?

Posted by: DennisNC | April 26, 2008, 6:52 pm 6:52 pm

Obama and Clinton have participated in many debates. Most were multi-candidate warm ups. Of the three so called debates of consequence, one could better be labeled a blow-out. Obama would have been better off not attending.
Does anybody think he’ll debate again and expose his ineptitude?

Posted by: Aston | April 26, 2008, 6:54 pm 6:54 pm

They’ve only had 4 debates and they haven’t made Obama look good.
He isnt a skilled politician and he’s a coward.
He doesn’t care if Indiana deserves a debate after 40 years.
He just wants people to believe he’s the second coming and not question him on anything.
His refusal to debate is unpresidential and won’t help democrats in the fall, not that he has a hope of winning a general election.

Posted by: s.b. | April 26, 2008, 6:57 pm 6:57 pm

Obama should not debate without a writen script, because people will see how stupid he is.

Posted by: Mllie | April 26, 2008, 6:58 pm 6:58 pm

B.O. will not debate because he risks losing. He risks losing to H.R.C. in a big way. He and his campaign will do all it can to build on last winter’s rhetorical saunas … B.O. does not have the temperament nor intelligence for hard debate. But give him time to practice, and he can deliver a speech like a Hollywood actor.
B.O. is afraid of her.

Posted by: aliasinkhorn | April 26, 2008, 7:00 pm 7:00 pm

Actually, it is the weak (and wounded) who feel the need to attack – that would be Hillary Clinton. She doesn’t want a debate, she wants more “blood”. It’s really sad.

Posted by: ddinla | April 26, 2008, 7:01 pm 7:01 pm

Obama is such a coward.

Posted by: free to speak | April 26, 2008, 7:03 pm 7:03 pm

What a sorry excuse for a man. Obama declines to debate because Hillary will crush him. He is afraid of her! Unfortunately for him, this sad display of weakness shows the country and the people of Indiana what they will get if they vote for him. A pathetic loser. Howard Dean and the supers are taking notes. They will certainly anticipate who will be best suited to go against McCain in the end. And if Obama declined to debate Hillary, what will he do when it is time to go face to face with John McCain? Poor showing Obama, not good for the home team.

Posted by: kokopelli | April 26, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

Waah, Waah, Waah cry Obama’s sheep because they fear their precious Obama might stutter again in a debate. Obama needs to prove he can stand up to McCain in a debate – WITH NO SCRIPT!! GET REAL DEMOCRATS – THIS IS THE ONLY FAIR WAY TO COMPETE!! LET THE CITIZENS ASK THE QUESTIONS. BRING ON ANOTHER DEBATE NOW OBAMA OR RISK LOSING THE NOMINATION!! IT IS ONLY FAIR!!!!!!!

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 26, 2008, 7:14 pm 7:14 pm

So hes scared to debate her huh? What exactly is he scared of? We all know hillary is doing this so she can paint him as negative so she can run in 2012. shes gonna run on the republican side though. if hes so unelectable why is she trailing him in every category, trust, confidence, and shes losing in national polls to him. she cant manage the finances of her campaign and you want us to trust her to manage a multi-trillion dollar economy?

Posted by: Allamr18 | April 26, 2008, 7:15 pm 7:15 pm

Obama is not ready. He should go home first and get his home city under control why is there so many dying. Is this what we can look forward to if Obama is in the white House.

Posted by: Bishop | April 26, 2008, 7:17 pm 7:17 pm

Looks like the “typical” white woman is not afraid of ANYTHING!

Posted by: Sheri | April 26, 2008, 7:18 pm 7:18 pm

“how long you all can TORTURE us with this constant invasion into our heads.”
you love it or you wouldn’t be in here.
get a grip.
rd

Posted by: rd | April 26, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

Throughout the past seven years Karl Rove has portrayed as the epitome of all evil. Style Magazine conducted a great interview with Karl Rove, and amazingly but also predictably Karl Rove seems to loathe Barack Obama more as a President than even Hillary Clinton. He fears that Barack Obama is inauthentic.
“If you had to make a bet, can Hillary pull it off?
The odds are long, but improbable things have happened almost every month in this race. She wasn’t supposed to win New Hampshire, and she did. So we’ll see. You know, she’s got a lot of strengths, and he does, too. We got two wellmatched opponents going at each other hammer and tongs. It’s fun to watch.
If it’s mathematically impossible for either of them to get enough delegates, how will this get resolved?
Somebody can get to a majority, but they’re gonna have to get to a majority with superdelegates. Neither of them can win enough delegates to win it on just simply the elected delegates.
So if it comes down to superdelegates, doesn’t that become a question of who can be more ruthless?
Well, you know, people will have to decide whether they’re going to act as reflectors of the popular vote in their districts or states, or whether they’re going to exercise independent judgment. I think this is the big dilemma the Democrats face: Are they going to choose a nominee who essentially is chosen, validated, by a minor aristocracy, by essentially an undemocratic group? Because, look. Does anybody think that Patrick Deval [sic], governor of Massachusetts, and Senator Ted Kennedy are gonna respect the wishes of their home-state crowd and go for Hillary Clinton, who won their state? No.
So how ugly is it gonna get?
Well, I—we don’t know. We have geological ages that are gonna pass. It’s not that ugly today. The wounds are fresh, but there’s plenty of time for them to heal. The question is, will the wounds get deeper and more difficult to heal? We don’t know. My gut tells me it happens, but I don’t know.
If you could run one of their campaigns, which one would be the dream campaign to run?
Neither one.
Why?
Because I don’t believe in what they say.
But just as a strategist, just to get in there and—
Yeah, well, see, for me it’s not divorced from who they are and what they’re all about and what they would do.
What did you think of the red-phone 3 a.m. ad?
It was a gutsy, dangerous move. She figured out that she had to do something to raise the issue of: Is he fit to be president? And this was a way to do it. I happened to be in Texas a week before the ad popped, and all of her surrogates were hitting him pretty hard on the thinness of his experience. They were pretty brutal. And this ad sort of fed into that.
Isn’t that the kind of ad you would have done?
Uh, look, that’s the problem. She can’t run an ad—you know, the more powerful ads she can’t run against him, because she’s afraid of looking too moderate. He’s got essentially… His argument is twofold. “Vote for me because I’ll bring Republicans and Democrats together; we’re not red states, blue states, we’re the United States.” And second of all—and he said this most passionately in the Wisconsin victory speech: “There are big issues facing the country, and it requires leadership and energy to solve them.” Well, the two best counters to those are Hillary saying, “I’ve actually worked with Republicans and Democrats to get things done.” Or McCain saying, even more pointedly, “On all the big issues where Republicans and Democrats have come together, I’ve been in the middle of bringing them together, and you’ve been way out there on the fringe. When we pulled together the Gang of Fourteen, you were out on the fringe. When we pulled together a bipartisan answer on the terrorist-surveillance program, you were way out there on the fringe. When Democrats and Republicans, regardless of where they were on the war, came together to give our troops everything they needed while they were in combat, you were way out there on the fringe.” Now, she can do some of that, because she’s actually tried to work with Republicans over the years. He has not since he got there. He’s been coolly detached and sitting on the side. His fingerprints are on, at most, a couple of small items. And then, on the leadership issue, she can say, “Look, I’ve been in the middle of these big battles. I’ve been providing the leadership. Sometimes we won, sometimes we lost. But at least I’ve been involved.” And McCain will be able to sharpen that even more.
It seems like you’re talking about authenticity here. Are you saying Obama is inauthentic?
I’m saying that he has adopted two themes for his campaign that are not supported by his actions.
Do you think Obama would be easier to beat?
I try not to think about those things. Because that inevitably leads you to believe, I would like to have A or I would like to have B. You need to keep your mind open about both of them.
You’ve said—what was the phrase you used about Hillary? “Fatally flawed”?
Fatally flawed. I just thought her flaws would show up in the general election. I didn’t know they’d show up as early and as strong as they have.
Which flaws?
Uh, calculating. You know, she went through the period where she had the calculated laugh, she went through the period where she had the calculated accents, and you build that on top of a person who already has the reputation that anything she says is calculating, you know…
Is calculating a terrible thing?
It is if people think it’s phony. And that’s what her problem is. That and the sense of entitlement. You know, the sense of “This is mine, I deserve it; we’re the Clintons, this is ours.” And I think that really caused a lot of people to say, “You know what? It’s not yours.” And do we really want to go back? The ’90s were nice in a lot of respects, but do we really want to go back to all that drama?
There is something ironic about Karl Rove criticizing someone for being calculating.
Right. Look, it’s one thing to calculate and say, “What’s the best way for me to do this?” It’s another thing to say, “What’s the best way to do this, even if it means the sacrifice of my fundamental principles?” When she stood up there and said, “I’m in front of an African-American group in Alabama, so let me adopt a phony southern accent!” And when she sat there and said, “You know what? I need to warm myself up, so for the next weeklong period I’m gonna sit there and laugh and cackle at anything that is even remotely funny.” You know, when both she and he, who are free traders by instinct, went to Ohio and said, “We’re gonna renegotiate NAFTA,” when they know that (a) there’s no provision to renegotiate NAFTA, and (b) the Canadians and the Mexicans are not gonna want to renegotiate NAFTA, and (c) when both of them understand that trade liberalization, particularly with our neighbors, has been to our economic advantage, who are they kidding?
But when people call you calculating, do you take that as a compliment?
Look, what I’m charged with is, in politics, taking the material that I have to work with—which are the views and values, convictions and principles, of my candidate or client—and charting the best path to victory. That’s different than saying, “How am I gonna take a fundamental belief or a reality of me as an individual and discard it?”
So there’s good calculating and bad calculating?
Absolutely. “
Then again maybe he should just keep his mouth shut because if there is any way to get Barack Obama elected would be to have Karl Rove come out in support of Hillary Clinton.

Posted by: Dave Peck | April 26, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

OMG – Are you telling me that the next leader of the free world doesn’t have the guts to stand up and take the tough questions in a debate???!!!Could Obama be uh….ah….uh….ah…CHICKEN????? OBAMA DEBATE HRC OR RISK LOSING THE NOMINATION!!!!!!!

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 26, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

Obama is not ready. He should go home first and get his home city under control why is there so many dying. Is this what we can look forward to if Obama is in the white House.
Posted by: Bishop | Apr 26, 2008 7:17:07 PM
=======================================
Are you aware Barack IS NOT the MAYOR or Governor.And his job is to be in Washinton 24/7 deciding on Bills.
I think you need to see and take it up with the Governor and Mayor there. thats their JOB.

Posted by: i-see-dumb-people | April 26, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

Obama ’08 = McGovern ’72
He is not the great “black hope” get a clue.
Ground control to Major Tom! Abort the space shuttle Obama.

Posted by: samantha | April 26, 2008, 7:24 pm 7:24 pm

We don’t need some one who needs on the job training gas is up to $3.60 today we need some one who knows what they are doing and that is not Obama we are heading into a depression and besides this is still a fifty state nation.
count all the votes we should have had a re-vote .

Posted by: Bishop | April 26, 2008, 7:26 pm 7:26 pm

Want the privilege of a debate? Take one of ours in Iowa. The debates are more a reflection of the moderator and media network than of the candidates. When Obama is in the White House–and he will be–he will be analyzing and discussing policies, missions, and strategies. How old are you folks? Reagan was incoherent in 1984, Bush was left a drooling idiot by Gore AND Kerry, Dukakis actually scored better than Bush senior, and Obama has fared better in most of the 21 debates to date. Debates are sound bite blathering. The last time Hillary tried this debate over a debate strategy in Wisconsin she got her clock cleaned. Obama can stand the heat in the kitchen, but Clinton drags him into the bathroom, and who the hell wants to prove they can stand that?

Posted by: KC | April 26, 2008, 7:27 pm 7:27 pm

Obama has been afraid to go on Fox News (he will be on tomorrow night). He’s afraid to accept Clintons debate challenge. And this man wants to be President? Remember he’s the guy who will talk to Iran, Syria, etc….wonder what he will give away?

Posted by: whitehousewatcher | April 26, 2008, 7:28 pm 7:28 pm

Posted by: ben heinz | Apr 26, 2008 7:10:16 PM
“Kennedy age 43
Roosevelt age 42
Obama age 46
Good thing the people voted for the most talented person …”
________________________________________________
Yah, especially for Theodore Roosevelt.

Posted by: magda | April 26, 2008, 7:38 pm 7:38 pm

Big Tex – last time I looked we still has 9 more states to go and NEITHER candidate will have the required number of delegates to win it. Sorry to break it to you, but Obama is actually going to have to come off the teleprompter and prove that he has the debating skills to take on McCain in the general election. WHAT IS THE BIG DEAL ABOUT ANOTHER DEBATE IF OBAMA HAS NOTHING TO HIDE???

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 26, 2008, 7:40 pm 7:40 pm

I agree there is no need to have anymore debates. He flopped in the last one and I made up my mind. No more snob-ama for me.

Posted by: ChrisA | April 26, 2008, 7:41 pm 7:41 pm

Well if you have so many phd’s per capita why is your state in trouble.And you think for yourselves what are you trying to tell us.

Posted by: Bishop | April 26, 2008, 7:41 pm 7:41 pm

The funniest thing I have ever read in the blogs is that NC has the most PHD’s per capita. Actually, NC is the poorest state in the nation.

Posted by: Bob | April 26, 2008, 7:45 pm 7:45 pm

Goodbye and God Bless.

Posted by: Tanya Kujath | April 26, 2008, 7:46 pm 7:46 pm

Obama is clearly scared to debate because he does not have a good understanding of important issues and Hillary does. It’s as simple as that.
What is making me crazy is the crazy racism in this race. I’m a white person who never sit in a room with racism without calling it out. Well there is serious racism, and it’s coming from the Obama camp.
I just heard a prominent Black politician smearing Bill Clinton — yet again. THIS IS OUTRAGEOUS. The message is clear… they are trying to Bully anyone and everyone who tells it like it is. They are going to bully the press to not do their job and Vet Obama, they want Obama and they want him now, and our going to bully anyone who steps in his way.
I’m so upset steam is coming out of my ears. Obama is the least experienced man to run for President in modern times. If he looked like John Edwards, with hsi message, and his thin resume, he’s be gone long ago. If people can’t say that, and can’t vet a Presidentt, and some prominent Black politician is claiming Bill marginalized Obama’s candidacy, then ask him if “John Edwards” was a first term Senator and had Obama’s thin resume of accomplishments, and platform where would he be?
I am so upset that a smart lawyer like Obama, a strategist, someone clearly vicious and underhanded is playing so dirty and the press is too scared to face it — it makes me sick. i can tell you too that white Supremacy is evil but that Black Supremacy is the other side of the same evil. The double standard has to go.
I say, let them become Republicans but don’t let this Bullying continue. It’s an Obomination.
Please don’t back down. Obama is as NEGATIVE and Vicious as anyone I’ve ever seen in politics the destruction og Hillary and Bill for this opportunists gain using the race card like a shield and a weapon has to stop. Please, don’t let this continue. Obama is not a great candidate, he;’s a Black candidate and there are much better Black people in Government, but he ran. Don’t let him steal the Presidency through Intimidation. This is OUTRAGEOUS.

Posted by: Steve | April 26, 2008, 7:47 pm 7:47 pm

This is the media. The fairest rules are where the debaters control the questions and the pace.
An election IS entertainment too. No way around it. People see what they like, hear what they like, and understand they like it vote for it and that is democracy, amen.
As Nixon observed, ya gotta win it on the tube.
Plus: Do this right and either one of you will be able to beat McCain.
Show us some love.

Posted by: len | April 26, 2008, 7:48 pm 7:48 pm

I propose HRC debate herself. She could definitely keep it going with her multiple personalities.

Posted by: concerned | April 26, 2008, 7:49 pm 7:49 pm

If you want to know the desperate actions of a desperate people, watch them get you to stop what you are doing, and just “talk”. This is an age-old attempt to compromise the leader’s position. The American people have heard enough, and if almost 11, at least, people have seen any of the previous debates, then you know that there has only one candidate whose responses have been straight-forward enough to not need anything more except the one-on-one variety that Obama is concerned with. Clinton’s role, according to her husband, is to make it as “harsh as possible” for Obama. These are desperate people, who continue to resort to desperate measure. I, for one, want Obama to “Just Say No!”

Posted by: Marc | April 26, 2008, 7:49 pm 7:49 pm

He is running from debates so that he is not caught in any lies again, just as he lied about not knowing Rezko, that he only did 5 hrs work for him, then we find out that fund raisers were thrown by Rezko for Obama, he found out more about the house purchase, Obama then changed his story.
He lied to ABC about Ayres, Obama said Ayres is not someone he exchange ideas with on a regular basis, and was surprised by that endorsement. Now the news is Ayres also held a fund raiser for him, and that Obama worked for Ayres for 8 years. Obama was the first Chairman of the Board of the Chicago Annenberg Challenge, of which Ayres was the co-founder of the Challenge.
This man is a lair to the highest degree and the media better start to call him out on these lies.

Posted by: SJ | April 26, 2008, 7:49 pm 7:49 pm

“…if Obama can’t inspire CHANGE in his own state how the hell will he do it for the US?”
Maybe that was the change he was talking about. With all the radicals close to him who knows?
rd

Posted by: rd | April 26, 2008, 7:50 pm 7:50 pm

You know Hillary, this would be a great idea… two months ago.

Posted by: Nick B | April 26, 2008, 7:50 pm 7:50 pm

Steve
Clinton can debate herself to a mirror since she needs one so bad. Obama will debate her on his tough… LOL.

Posted by: environ | April 26, 2008, 7:54 pm 7:54 pm

This is an act of desperation by Hillary Clinton. She wants to get into a brawl with Obama on national tv so because she thinks she has some more mud to sling! She should ask why she had Rendel as her campaign chair in Pennsylvania and made derogatory remarks on several occasions about Luis Farakan only to find out that there is a link on the Huffington report where Rendel speaks glowingly about Farakan!!!
Be careful what you ask for!
Obama, tell Clinton “NO!” 21 is more than enough. Nothing has changed since the last debate. She’s goading you!

Posted by: arlington, tx | April 26, 2008, 8:11 pm 8:11 pm

For all the talk about Hillary being the scrappy fighter challenging Obama to debates, the truth is that she is behind the delegate count and popular vote because she was so lazy, and felt such total entitlement to the nomination that she did not prepare for or work for victories after Super Tuesday. She is not a fighter, she is lazy slacker, and the reason she wants a debate is because she is too inept to raise money to make and run commercials and hold her own rallies.

Posted by: FilmMD | April 26, 2008, 8:12 pm 8:12 pm

Obama doesn’t want to debate, because every time that Americans know a little more about him the worst he looks.

Posted by: Felixdiaz1 | April 26, 2008, 8:13 pm 8:13 pm

instead of debates, Obama the Washington Politician prefers to spend millions of dollars in propaganda than to face the issues in person. He is unelectable.

Posted by: Felixdiaz1 | April 26, 2008, 8:15 pm 8:15 pm

Excellent idea to bypass the lib media “newsmakers” that want to dictate who they want for POTUS. All the mainstream media moderated debates were sorry excuses that didn’t even address main issues like border security and illegal immigration and the efforts to give illegal aliens massive benefits. That is a direct flaw of media like ABC, CNN, CBS, NBC being involved with what issues are dissused and what issues are swept under the rug. Even Obamas character was hidden until recently.

Posted by: Bill | April 26, 2008, 8:16 pm 8:16 pm

On loan from the internets via obsidian wings:
MR. GIBSON: So we’re going to begin with opening statements, and we had a flip of the coin, and the brief opening statement first from Mr. Lincoln.
LINCOLN: Thank you very much, Charlie and George, and thanks to all in the audience and who are out there. I appear before you today for the purpose of discussing the leading political topics which now agitate the public mind.
We are now far into the fifth year since a policy was initiated with the avowed object, and confident promise, of putting an end to slavery agitation. Under the operation of that policy, that agitation has not only not ceased, but has constantly augmented.
STEPHANOPOULOS: I’m sorry to interrupt, but do you think Mr. Douglas loves America as much you do?
LINCOLN: Sure I do.
STEPHANOPOULOS: But who loves America more?
LINCOLN: I’d prefer to get on with my opening statement George.
STEPHANOPOULOS: If your love for America were eight apples, how many apples would Senator Douglas’s love be?
LINCOLN: Eight.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Proceed.
LINCOLN: In my opinion, slavery will not cease, until a crisis shall have been reached and passed. “A house divided against itself cannot stand.” I believe this government cannot endure permanently half slave and half free.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Excuse me, did an Elijah H. Johnson attend your church?
LINCOLN: When I was a boy in Illinois forty years ago, yes. I think he was a deacon.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Are you aware that he regularly called Kentucky “a land of swine and whores”?
LINCOLN: Sounds right — his ex-wife was from Kentucky.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Why did you remain in the church after hearing those statements?
LINCOLN: I was eight.
DOUGLAS: This is an important question George — it’s an issue that certainly will be raised in the fall.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Do you denounce him?
LINCOLN: I’d like to get back to the divided house if I may.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Do you denounce and reject him?
LINCOLN: If it will make you shut up, yes, I denounce and reject him.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Do you denounce and reject him with sugar on top?
LINCOLN: Yes.
STEPHANOPOULOS: No takesies-backsies?
LINCOLN: Yes.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Whoa, so you would consider a takesie-backsie?
LINCOLN: That’s not what I meant…
DOUGLAS: When I was 11, my grandpappy and I chopped wood and shot bears.
LINCOLN: Ahem, I do not expect the Union to be dissolved — I do not expect the house to fall — but I do expect slavery will cease to be divided. It will become all one thing, or all the other…
STEPHANOPOULOS: Do you love America this much (extending fingers), this much (extending hands slightly), or thiiiiiis much (extending hands broadly)?
LINCOLN: I think we covered this…
GIBSON: If I may interrupt…
LINCOLN: Please.
GIBSON: I noticed, Mr. Lincoln, that your American flag pin was upside down…
LINCOLN: Yes, the wind caught it. Now, as I was saying…
GIBSON: We get questions about this all the time over at Powerline and on Hannity’s talk show. Mr. Douglas has said this is a major vulnerability for you in the fall. So I’ll ask again – do you love America?
LINCOLN: (scowling with a forced smile). Yes.
GIBSON: If your love for America were ice cream, what flavor would it be?
LINCOLN: (pausing with disgust and turning back to camera) Either the opponents of slavery will arrest the further spread of it; or its advocates will push it forward, till it shall become alike lawful in all the States, old as well as new — North as well as South.
DOUGLAS: He didn’t answer the question Charlie. This fall, that question is going to be on the minds of the American public. I’ve proudly stated that my love for America is Very Berry Strawberry.
STEPHANOPOULOS: Let me ask it another way. If Elijah Johnson were chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, would you eat it? Or would you decline to eat it?
DOUGLAS: Personally, as for me, I would decline to eat it.
LINCOLN (shaking his head): Let any one who doubts, carefully contemplate that now almost complete legal combination — piece of machinery, so to speak — compounded of the Nebraska doctrine, and the Dred Scott decision.
STEPHANOPOULOS: We’ll get to Dred Scott in the second hour, time willing, but I want to get back to the ice cream question. And that’s what we’ll do, after the break.

Posted by: The Commander Guy | April 26, 2008, 8:16 pm 8:16 pm

anybody inspired by Obama’s empty, filthy rhetoric???

Posted by: June | April 26, 2008, 8:27 pm 8:27 pm

Great–Does that “Bill” will be in N.Y.C. watching the debate on T.V. instead of on thr side lines-showing “Hillary” cue cards??

Posted by: orange cat | April 26, 2008, 8:28 pm 8:28 pm

Yes we want to return to a Clinton White House with good economy, jobs, balanced budget, peace, respect in the world, promotion for real education, better times, , opportunity for blacks, latinos and all minorities and change for the good not only empty hopeful words.

Posted by: Felixdiaz1 | April 26, 2008, 8:28 pm 8:28 pm

When and where did Hillary turn down a debate? That was Mr. Obama who turned it down after their very willingly accept of that debate, and then they got chicken out after PA debate with all the tough questions. How could he win if he’s afraid of being asked all those questions? He looked so uncomfortable during the early debate and didn’t look presidential at all. If he accepts more debates it might give him the opportunities to erase all the bad impressions (of being not presidential) from the last debate. Otherwise how could I vote for someone who doesn’t seem to carry enough of presidential characters!

Posted by: senator | April 26, 2008, 8:36 pm 8:36 pm

Simple truth: Obama is not
presidential material. No need to
debate…
Vote Hillary 08!!

Posted by: senator | April 26, 2008, 8:37 pm 8:37 pm

Frankly, Obama is not qualified for
more than Legal Assistant.

Posted by: hottie | April 26, 2008, 8:38 pm 8:38 pm

Who cares. We know what they’re about after all the debates. I know they’re both capable of being president, and would be both be infintely better then John McCain. I gotta say, if any democrats vote McCain because their candidate doesn’t get the nomination, then you are seriously deranged. They’re just politicians, and they’re pretty much the same on every issue. Don’t see what the idolatry is about, they don’t care about you. Just puppets. In my opinion, this should be over soon, or the democrats are going to have a lot of trouble winning against mccain.. somehow.

Posted by: Keith | April 26, 2008, 9:25 pm 9:25 pm

Ron, Hillary is a 2-Tern NY Senator and you know that her accomplishments put Obama to shame. You can look at her record. I’m sorry I’m not inclined to let you get me to jump when you say jump. She has passed 2.7 bills per year to Obama’s .7. That is 3X’s as effective in the Senate, but you probably know that already.
What you may not realize is Obama gor his job in the Senate by bringing law suits agaist competitors so they’d have to drop out on technicalities. he’s a vicious politician and sneaky Lawyer.
In the Ilinois Senate he made his reputation stepping on others too:
The white, race-baiting, hard-right Republican Illinois Senate Majority Leader James “Pate” Philip was replaced by Emil Jones Jr., a gravel-voiced, dark-skinned black senator known for chain-smoking cigarettes on the Senate floor.
Jones had served in the Illinois Legislature for three decades. He represented a district on the Chicago South Side not far from Obama’s. He became Obama’s kingmaker.
Several months before Obama announced his U.S. Senate bid, Jones called his old friend Cliff Kelley, a former Chicago alderman who now hosts the city’s most popular black call-in radio program.
I called Kelley last week, and he recollected the private conversation as follows:
“He said, ‘Cliff, I’m gonna make me a U.S. senator.’”
“Oh, you are? Who might that be?”
“Barack Obama.”
Jones appointed Obama sponsor of virtually every high-profile piece of legislation, angering many rank-and-file state legislators who had more seniority than Obama and had spent years championing the bills.
People don’t realize, Obama is basically the opposite of who he claims to be. he’s vicious and very Negative.
Please win Hillary the USA needs you. people need you. Hillary will be one of the great presidents, if she can get past Obama’s money and vicious, underhanded attacks.

Posted by: Steve | April 26, 2008, 9:30 pm 9:30 pm

Can any Hillary supporter answer a couple of questions from this Obama supporter? 1. Why do you think Hillary can win the nomination? (If you have a link to anything I’d appreciate it.) 2. If you do NOT think she can win the nomination, do you know why she is still running? Thank you in advance.

Posted by: Marilyn | April 26, 2008, 9:30 pm 9:30 pm

First Obama refuses to discuss the issue of his relationships with Rezko and Auchi, Bill Ayers, the Reverend Wright, and others, calling them “distractions” and saying that he wants to talk issues. Then Hillary says, OK, let’s give Americans a debate on the issues, and he refuses. What a hypocrite! Blue collar workers won’t vote for a coward, Senator Obama, and that’s what you have turned out to be.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 26, 2008, 9:31 pm 9:31 pm

This lady want to talk Obama want to get things done.

Posted by: leche | April 26, 2008, 10:02 pm 10:02 pm

Long-term democrats amongst our friends and family are solidly committed to vote McCain if Obama is shoved down our throats……..Republicans, independents and moderate dems would join hands to ensure this guy is kept away from the white house.

Posted by: dem | April 26, 2008, 10:06 pm 10:06 pm

Wow…we’re sure scared of your friends and family “coalition of the whining”, anonymous internet poster.
Have fun with your delusions of relevance there, scout.

Posted by: JR | April 26, 2008, 10:09 pm 10:09 pm

Obama will never get the blue collar vote – he is a wimp, and every time he comes up with another reason to not debate the issues, the more of a wimp he becomes. Blue collar workers respect strength and courage, something Barack Obama has in short supply. Hillary Clinton is the “man” of the two, and the longer Obama whines and refuses to debate, the more we see who he really is, and the more blue collar workers will refuse to support him. Arrogant, elitist wimp – stands not a chance in the GE against a true American patriot, John McCain. The wimp versus the hero, what is the DNC thinking? Oh, that’s right, they don’t think too much beyond their golden boy and how to get him elected. Shame.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 26, 2008, 10:12 pm 10:12 pm

I am from Indiana and we have watched Obama for almost a year now. Also watched how Hillary badgered him. She wants a debate for free air time. Hillary and John McCain are in this fight together. We Hoosiers remember how it was when the Clintons were in, and it was not as good as they say it was who wants another digusting impeachment again? John McCain knows he cannot beat Obama in the General Election so he is siding with Hillary. Of course, Hillary will always believe she won this election, even if she looses. She cares nothing about the people, only her own selfish interests. We Hoosiers can read between the lines. We do not need another debate. I vote for Obama and I am sure most of Indiana will also. Hillary and Bill can go debate each other!

Posted by: SUNMAKER777 | April 26, 2008, 10:13 pm 10:13 pm

April-You sure you want to associate yourself with lgf? They are notoriously um…bad at fact-checking stories. “Scrubbed?” Could it be that it was never there?

Posted by: JR | April 26, 2008, 10:14 pm 10:14 pm

Obama is WORSE than other politicians. The debates are for US, the American People. We want and deserve to see the two of them debate. There have only been a few with just them. What is the problem? Oh…thats right…he screwed up the last one…he sure doesn’t want that to happen again. I mean come on…him and his campaign just complained and complained about the questions. There was some good info regarding foreign policy. People just want to focus on the negative.
Well…who is the one that goes negative. The following are comments from Obama about Clinton:
Obama says in reference to Clinton, ‘you should hedge and dodge and spin, but at all costs, don’t answer
Obama says Hillary is ‘the most calculating politician in this race’
Obama campaign says Hillary tries to ‘duck legitimate questions’
Obama on Hillary: ‘I don’t think you’re ready to lead if you can’t tell us where you’re going.’
Obama says Hillary gives ‘vague, calculated answers’ does not have ‘clear, consistent principles.’
Obama says Hillary ‘can’t deliver’ change
Obama campaign manager says Hillary has ‘has been ducking and dodging tough questions at rapid pace.
Obama says if Hillary wins she ‘will not be able to govern.’
Now tell me…who is Obama REALLY talking about…seems to me he is talking about himself!

Posted by: Raleigh Voter | April 26, 2008, 10:16 pm 10:16 pm

Grammy Barb, I mean no disrespect but we want a president that is not old politics, if you know what I mean. You probably are afraid of change but change is what is happening in politics right now.

Posted by: lisa | April 26, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm

“they are all voting for Obama”
____________________________________
How would one even know this? Does it sound like an accurate prediction? Why does it matter?

Posted by: JR | April 26, 2008, 10:25 pm 10:25 pm

Obama does not have a chance in the General.
1. There are no caucuses
2. Most of the states he won are RED states anyway.
3. No way he will win in FL or MI at this point. Those voters are pissed off.
4. McCain will choose a younger running mate.
5. A group promoting Obama are attacking his age and this will not set right for the baby boomers…it will just fire up Grandma and Grandpa to vote against him
6. 40% plus of Clinton supporters will either not vote or cross party lines
7. Small town voters just see him as an “outsider”
8. Anytime a campaign and their supporters bring up race, especially to say that there will be riots should Hillary “steal” the elections…just turn off tons of voters
Oh Yeah…changes are a coming…Change that women, older voters, blue collar workers and veterans are looking for…McCain.

Posted by: Independent Voter | April 26, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm

The one-on-one debate is a great idea by Clinton. Eliminate the moderator, and any other third parties. Just have the two candidates go face-to-face and have to stand completely on their own. But Obama will never do it because he would be crushed and he knows that. Someone who has command of the issues vs. Someome who has command of the telemprompter.

Posted by: hopesprings52 | April 26, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm

Considering that the baby boomers are the forty four years and up, meaning the population more likely to vote, why are we suppose to be all uptight for the “new” voters? All the focus on “new” voters comes from the Obama support system. I am forty three, younger than Obama and I am surrounded by educators younger than me who support Clinton. I am starting to see a lot of fallacies developing from Obama’s campaign. His “unity” has inflicted arguments from his camp that has divided us into class, age, race and religion like I have never seen in my lifetime. I am glad wiser people support Hillary.

Posted by: irma | April 26, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm

Sorry…I am from NC and Hillary agreed on a date over a month ago. Obama kept saying it would not fit into his schedule.
If the shoe were on the other foot, who knows what the Hillary bashers would say.
I could swear that Obama’s campaign is based off of being a different kind of candidate. Too bad that his supporters do not follow that mantra either.
I have read some of the nastiest language and lowest of blows from Obamazombies. Shame…and who wants to focus on the issues? Who wants change? Hmmmm…funny way of showing it.
Obama=just another politician who will do and say what he can to get elected. Oh wait…HE doesn’t say it, someone else did.

Posted by: Raleigh Voter | April 26, 2008, 10:33 pm 10:33 pm

I love it.
Let’s do it.

Posted by: mlwheeler | April 26, 2008, 10:33 pm 10:33 pm

No more debates unless a responsibe party like the League of women Voters conducts it. The networks have shown they are more interested in theater and ratings than substance. Charlie and George made that perfectly clear.

Posted by: Can we all get along | April 26, 2008, 10:35 pm 10:35 pm

Who cares how many debates they have done. This is a race for the Presidency. They are both still running and debates are a normal part of that process. No moderators would definitely make this an interesting one for sure. Boy, the Elitist Liberals sure love to act insulted about everything and anything. Debating is part of politics. There are no “rules” formal or informal/social that limit the number of debates. What’s wrong Obama? Did you think you would have already won by now had we all been convinced that to not vote for you makes us racist? Elitists sure live in a bubble. They just expect Normal people who deal with each other face to face daily, to just “accept” what the “highly” educated tell us. Gee, it must be frustrating to have underestimated the intelligence of middle and lower income people. He won’t do the debate because it proves he’s not that great.

Posted by: irma | April 26, 2008, 10:42 pm 10:42 pm

Emily-don’t make me cry. I was so wishing for more than the “hype of hope” from Obama. Glad that we can see for ourselves what his words are worth since his action have been notably absent. I can see now that Obama will never have the guts to debate because OBAMA HAS NO REAL INTEGRITY. This is a sad day to me – I was hoping to be convinced. I WANT TO BELIEVE IN CHANGE TOO OBAMA – PROVE IT BY DEBATING HRC OR RISK LOSING NOT ONLY THE NOMINATION, BUT YOUR ENTIRE POLITICAL CAREER! COME OUT OF THE SHADOWS AND HAVE THE GUTS TO SHOW US WHAT YOU CAN DO IF YOU DEBATE MCCAIN IN THE GENERAL ELECTION!

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 26, 2008, 10:44 pm 10:44 pm

SUNMAKER777: I am from Indianapolis, Indiana and Black. My mother, father, sisters and other family members are not voting for Obama. We are supporting Hillary.

Posted by: Willie | April 26, 2008, 10:45 pm 10:45 pm

Given Hillary’s combative style, it might be more intriguing at this point to have a debate between Hillary and Cruella DeVille–wouldn’t last long though–Hillary in 3…by KO.

Posted by: Dave | April 26, 2008, 10:46 pm 10:46 pm

You gotta love the way the Obama campaign spins the debate question – we’ve already done too many debates, why give Hillary free advertising? Obama sure does know how to show his arrogance and disdain for working class Americans! Obama is too good for hard work – and doing debate number 22 and 23 is hard work – but it’s not too hard for Hillary! Obama doesn’t think he needs any free advertising, he has this nomination wrapped up – just ask his supporters, it’s already a done deal! Howard Dean has already told Obama that it’s his nomination. Why should democrats believe in democracy if a major candidate and the democratic party can just say scr-w you and give the finger to anyone that doesn’t agree with them?

Posted by: frisco girl | April 26, 2008, 10:50 pm 10:50 pm

Frankly I do not care what Hillary wants.
My senses are being assaulted in these blogs and the primary needs to come to end. That way I can through a withdrawal period, and get ready for Obama to meet McCain in the GE

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 10:51 pm 10:51 pm

Someone asked how is Hillary more qualified to be president.
How is this for starters?
- no candidate has ever won the white house serving 2 years in the senate and not been govenor or some other kind of national experience. Ever. Never once. Nobody has ever won this way.
- no candidate has ever been awarded the democratic nomination, nor won the white house in either party who lost :
-California, Mass, New Jersey , Ohio, Pennysvannia, Florida. Every single MAJOR primary. Every single major swing state.
nobody has ever won the white house by losing all these primaries in the nomination process. NEVER.
And he lost every single one by DOUBLE DIGITS.
This is just for STARTERS.

Posted by: tomdavie | April 26, 2008, 10:52 pm 10:52 pm

GOOD GOD THIS IS AMERICA – LET THERE BE A FAIR DEBATE WITH QUESTIONS FROM THE CITIZENS. REMEMBER HOW WE GOT HERE (READ OR WATCH “JOHN ADAMS” IN CASE YOU FORGOT). THIS IS REAL PEOPLE!!! THIS IS FOR OUR CHILDREN! THE AMERICAN PEOPLE DESERVE ANOTHER DEBATE!!! LET FREEDOM RING!!

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 26, 2008, 10:53 pm 10:53 pm

@ Raleigh Voter, and @ Willie: Good for you! Great posts!
@ fairsuperdelegates08: LOL. I’m with ya!

Posted by: Emily | April 26, 2008, 10:53 pm 10:53 pm

Ron:
That last debate wasn’t really a debate. It was a three-way attack on Barack. You had the two moderators going after him like prosecutors and you had his opponent taking advantage with cheap shots.

Posted by: Denise | April 26, 2008, 10:53 pm 10:53 pm

Obama seems to fear to face Hillary in any format. They invited him on Larry King before the PA election but he declined.
He had weeks to clear his schedule for the NC debate but just refuses. He has refused a debate in IN.
This is NOT about him or Clinton. This is about US. I enjoyed seeing them together and answering questions on foreign policy. I want to hear from them again on the economy, education, the environment and the biggie of them all…HOW WILL THEY REDUCE THE NATIONAL DEBT!
By Obama not wanting to debate it shows him as being WEAK. I think it would be cool for them to debate in the format suggested.
Why not do it? Obama and his supporters feel that he is WAY ahead so what difference does it make as far as they are concerned? There are a lot of people who have not voted yet. What about the General election? I mean this is good prep for them to get ready to face McCain.
Millions of people would be watching. This would be HISTORICAL!

Posted by: Raleigh Voter | April 26, 2008, 10:55 pm 10:55 pm

Allways a first time tom

Posted by: TYhinking | April 26, 2008, 10:55 pm 10:55 pm

Considering that the Baby Boomers are the forty four years and up, meaning the population more likely to vote, why are we suppose to be all uptight for the “new” voters? All the focus on “new” voters comes from the Obama support system. I am forty three, younger than Obama and I am surrounded by educators younger than me who support Clinton. I am starting to see a lot of fallacies developing from Obama’s campaign. His “unity” has inflicted arguments from his camp that has divided us into class, age, race and religion like I have never seen in my lifetime. I am glad wiser people support Hillary

Posted by: irma | April 26, 2008, 10:55 pm 10:55 pm

Denise: I completly agree with you. That is why I stopped watching it 20 minutes into the debate.

Posted by: Ron | April 26, 2008, 10:56 pm 10:56 pm

I hope the Obama campaign will not complain that the ‘Air’ between the two debaters being unfair to Sen. Obama after the debate

Posted by: Thiru K | April 26, 2008, 10:56 pm 10:56 pm

rhbate:
If he is the best candidate he should jump at this chance to debate Senator Clinton and PROVE IT!

Posted by: NEStudent | April 26, 2008, 10:56 pm 10:56 pm

Debating won’t get the job done!

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 10:57 pm 10:57 pm

Fairsuper…
I am with you! This debate would be incredible! Finally they would answer what WE want to hear!
Come on Obama…JUST DO IT!

Posted by: Raleigh Voter | April 26, 2008, 10:58 pm 10:58 pm

@ frisco girl: Obama is worried that if he debates Hillary again, he may give her the finger the way he did during one of his NC rallies. Such a class act that Obama. So presidential, don’t you think?

Posted by: Emily | April 26, 2008, 11:00 pm 11:00 pm

Well RON, you missed a great debate. They answered some good questions regarding foreign policy and the Iraq war. I would have never turned it off. I thought it was great to see the two of them. Even if I felt it were unfair to my candidate I would still watch to see how they handled themselves.
Debates are not always about the issues, sometimes it just allows us to see how the candidates would be under pressure. This is something that we all should be able to observe.
If people really want to find out your candidates viewpoint, go to their website.

Posted by: Raleigh Voter | April 26, 2008, 11:01 pm 11:01 pm

Obama refuses to talk about Rezko and Ayers and Reverend Wright, saying they are just “distractions”, that people want to talk about the issues. Well, here’s an offer from Hillary that he shouldn’t refuse if he wants us to know how he stands on the issues, right? What a wuss – no wonder he’s steadily losing the blue collar vote – they respect courage and integrity, something Senator Obama is clearly lacking. Hillary Clinton is more of a “man” than Obama is!!

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 26, 2008, 11:01 pm 11:01 pm

Irma, it’s a fact that Obama has inspired many new dem voters. Who is the last canidate that has done that. But no one says you have to be uptight about it. It’s merely a fact. And I consider myself a wise person that doesn’t support Hillary

Posted by: lisa | April 26, 2008, 11:02 pm 11:02 pm

NEStudent:
He doesn’t have to prove anything to her. He’s ahead. I’m sure he could come up with a bunch of gutter snipes and cheap shot like she does and call it “debating”. The only difference is that there is a double standard. If he stoops to her level she come out the next day and say: “Shame on you Barack Obama”. She has a real mean streak. I saw right through her since Day 1. She has her own radical skeletons in the closet.

Posted by: Denise | April 26, 2008, 11:02 pm 11:02 pm

Obama will not get over 50% of the black votes in Indianapolis. All of my family members are voting for Hillary and do not trust Obama. Yesterday, some of Obama’s supporters show up at my parents’ home and we quickly push away by parents.

Posted by: Willie | April 26, 2008, 11:03 pm 11:03 pm

ah come on obama-you keep saying you want to focus on the issues. well here is your chance.

Posted by: sonia trevino | April 26, 2008, 11:04 pm 11:04 pm

Sigh. Senator Obama persists in believing in and betting on the basic decency and intelligence of the American people, rather than trying to manipulate them or belittle others.
Although in the face of comments such as these it is a challenge, I am committed to also betting that in the face of the very serious problems facing our country, we can focus on what matters rather than indulging in petty bickering and slander.
Please folks, are you really acting in a way that would make anyone proud?

Posted by: Trillium | April 26, 2008, 11:04 pm 11:04 pm

Lisa, I am not arguing whether he inspires or not. I see he has inspired you. I am well aware of that.

Posted by: irma | April 26, 2008, 11:05 pm 11:05 pm

Ron wrote,
April: I’m sure if someone told you the sky was green you would belive them.
Ron, you live in the State of Denial about BO, where even if the sky is green, you’d never admit it!
Go back to my earlier post with the cached version of the website–can’t refute that! If you really want to know what color the sky is, do a little googling of this guy, Hatem El-Hady, along with “Obama” or “Michelle Obama.” More reasons that BHO is BAD for this country…

Posted by: april | April 26, 2008, 11:05 pm 11:05 pm

Hillary failed the test. She is broke and her campiagn is falling a part. It is all the vetting I need to see.
Who would of thought that a man who gives good speeches, could get the job done?

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 11:05 pm 11:05 pm

Denise:
If he has nothing to loose – he should want to debate because he can only get stronger, correct?

Posted by: NEStudent | April 26, 2008, 11:07 pm 11:07 pm

Grammy Barb, I post to your comments but you don’t answer me. This is a new generation of politics. We don’t want old school anymore. Obama is not a wuss, you are just scared of him and change. You want old school Clintons. We need to get past them. They are not good for this country anymore. Times have changed, we can’t go back to the 90′s

Posted by: lisa | April 26, 2008, 11:08 pm 11:08 pm

It is wise to choose your fights carefully, and know what you are fighting for. Senseless brawling accomplishes nothing.
Taunting about “wusses” is what bullies do.
Neither the world nor this country need another bully as a president, whether male or female.
We need a leader.

Posted by: Trillium | April 26, 2008, 11:09 pm 11:09 pm

These Lincoln-Douglas style debates are an EXCELLENT idea! Imagine no ratings driving moderators, no rediculous video-taped “voters questions”. Imagine just HIllary and Barack debating the issues that face America. Well, just keep imagining America, because it wont happen. Because Barack is afraid to speak without his TelePrompter. Vote Hillary 2008!

Posted by: PhillyPaul | April 26, 2008, 11:11 pm 11:11 pm

To Ron: Even if the sky were green, you wouldn’t see it, because you live in the State of Denial, where the sky is whatever color BO tells you it is!
Hillary ’08

Posted by: april | April 26, 2008, 11:11 pm 11:11 pm

Obama is a chicken.

Posted by: smyles | April 26, 2008, 11:14 pm 11:14 pm

Stop whining you clinton suckers.
Game is over. Hillary is just a nuance in the reace. She is trying to pick fight if anynody is foolish enough to fall for it.
Obama is focusing on general election as he should.
All you can do is to stay out in general election.
By all means, please do.

Posted by: My America | April 26, 2008, 11:17 pm 11:17 pm

Ooohh, Denise, you sound a little bitter! Elitist comments about working-class voters are not going to get you anywhere! Seriously, if you hear racism, don’t respond with more racism! You are learning Rev. Wright’s sermons too!

Posted by: april | April 26, 2008, 11:18 pm 11:18 pm

I challenge Hillary to shut up and go away already. Who wants a liar for president? She can collect welfare in the courtroom…..when she embellishes herself with other peoples money, through frivolous lawsuits.
Send the welfare monkey back into the suburbs where she belongs.

Posted by: Steven Wilson | April 26, 2008, 11:19 pm 11:19 pm

I second Grammy Barb. If Obama was half the man Hillary is, he’d have the nom. He would step up and learn to debate, he would have the b—s to count Florida and Michigan, and he would stop hideing behind slogans and logos and show us who he is.

Posted by: WNYtoby | April 26, 2008, 11:21 pm 11:21 pm

The remarks by Hillary’s supporters remind me of Monty Python’s Black Knight. Although he had just lost all his limbs in the fight and was toast, he keep shouting “coward” at the departing knight that had just whipped him. Pathetic.

Posted by: DennisNC | April 26, 2008, 11:24 pm 11:24 pm

April:I am not stupid enough to go onto some right wing website (unlike some people) and eat the trash that they feed the public.

Posted by: ron | April 26, 2008, 11:24 pm 11:24 pm

Obama is a self-serving fraud, phony, hypocrite and coward. I am a lifelong democrat who voted for Carter, Mondale, Dukakis, Clinton, Gore and Kerry. I will, for the first time since 1980, vote for a republican if Obama is the dem nominee.

Posted by: Obamanomore | April 26, 2008, 11:24 pm 11:24 pm

Clinton Used Foundation to Make Early State Donation. “And just this week, no doubt unintentionally, she stumbled on another way to leverage non-campaign cash into a political benefit in a primary state when money from the Clinton Family Foundation, the Clintons’ family-funded charity that has given them tax write-offs since 2001, popped up to provide an assist. On Tuesday, during a swing through the hotly-contested early primary state of South Carolina, Hillary presented a $100,000 gift from the foundation to help build a new public library in poor, rural Marlboro County, South Carolina.” [Newsday, 11/29/07]

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 11:25 pm 11:25 pm

It just seems that you should have one vote per person. The General Election process is flawed as well.
How do the American people go about to change the process…really make it more fair? What happened in 2000 was just plain crazy. This whole Dem primary is crazy too, but interesting!

Posted by: Raleigh Voter | April 26, 2008, 11:25 pm 11:25 pm

The American people have a right to see both candidates debate again. The purpose of any political debate is to allow viewers an opportunity to observe how the candidates handle pressure, how the candidates respond to inquiry, and if their responses are substantive and accurate. Querying candidates about their policy positioning and also their core values, attitudes, and beliefs is exactly what debates should focus on to help voters make informed decisions. Since Barrack is the touted wordsmith, he shouldn’t have a problem debating again, right? What Barrack is doing is coasting to the next primaries to avoid bumbling another debate. He knows he can’t win a debate against Hillary. He couldn’t win when all his supporters at MSNBC were moderating. He stumbles, stammers, and flat out doesn’t know the answers to issue-based questions. As for legitimate questions about his nefarious friends and associates, he just dismisses them, or lies.

Posted by: Emily | April 26, 2008, 11:27 pm 11:27 pm

Clinton people are still whining. Enough already.
Get on medication if it hurts to lose.
Or stay home come Nov. But for god’s sake stop whining.

Posted by: My America | April 26, 2008, 11:27 pm 11:27 pm

Clinton is desperate and given her no ethics , no principles , no class , do and say anything tactics why would Obama give her an opening to lie , deceive and smear him in a so called debate especially when Obama has too much class to stoop to her level and defend himself , he just went through that a week or so ago in a so called debate that was three on one . She already as more than her fair share of coverage and time given to her by the all the networks and other media to do her thing . Knowing she can’t win it is just another desperate ploy . Nice try !

Posted by: Ray | April 26, 2008, 11:27 pm 11:27 pm

DennisNC:
you might be right, but remember, King Arthur & company went on to be eaten by a rabbit

Posted by: WNYtoby | April 26, 2008, 11:28 pm 11:28 pm

OBAMAis still a COWARD AND A FRAUD

Posted by: carla noble | April 26, 2008, 11:29 pm 11:29 pm

I dont’t Trust Obama..America be Careful!!
I’ll vote for McCain if this dangerous man wins democrat nomination..Veteran and Proud to BE AN AMERICAN.

Posted by: elizabeth neeley | April 26, 2008, 11:29 pm 11:29 pm

what is going to happen is that Obama doesnt have the luxury of people as he did before to turn down the debate..Though he may not want to answer stupid questions, he has a couple dings in his armour and he will have to refine them before the election..The republicans will be much worse..

Posted by: linchristi | April 26, 2008, 11:30 pm 11:30 pm

Democrats never let Bush and his supporters forget about the invasion of Iraq. Yet ca. half of Democrats refuse to hold Democratic Congressional reps accountable for their role in the invasion. (They were lied to, but not duped. There is a difference.) If you have strong feelings against the invasion and still support Hillary, you are a hypocrite. Worse yet, you are a facilitator of such atrocities.

Posted by: DennisNC | April 26, 2008, 11:32 pm 11:32 pm

Carla exactly why is Obama a coward and a fraud.

Posted by: lisa | April 26, 2008, 11:32 pm 11:32 pm

A real Democrat won’t vote for either of these two nin-com-poops. A real Democrat will vote write in anyone but them.

Posted by: mary | April 26, 2008, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm

Obama and his supporters don’t want debates because all you hear is ummm ah ummm…I agree with Senator Clinton. I would love to see a debate with no moderators.

Posted by: J | April 26, 2008, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm

Remember we need a President not a Fake like Obama

Posted by: Angell | April 26, 2008, 11:34 pm 11:34 pm

Did I hear someone whining? Oh yeah another clinton sucker.
Sorry dude, she is up to ears in the cesspool of her lies and deceptions. No debate is needed we know that already.
People know better. She is lost. You need to move on.

Posted by: My America | April 26, 2008, 11:34 pm 11:34 pm

Obama knows he will NEVER beat Clinton in a debate, and is afraid! GO HILLARY!!!!!!

Posted by: david from texas | April 26, 2008, 11:35 pm 11:35 pm

Angell why is Obama a fake. You guys post without substance.

Posted by: erin | April 26, 2008, 11:37 pm 11:37 pm

@ lisa– To answer carla’s question, here’s my post again:
The American people have a right to see both candidates debate again. The purpose of any political debate is to allow viewers an opportunity to observe how the candidates handle pressure, how the candidates respond to inquiry, and if their responses are substantive and accurate. Querying candidates about their policy positioning and also their core values, attitudes, and beliefs is exactly what debates should focus on to help voters make informed decisions. Since Barrack is the touted wordsmith, he shouldn’t have a problem debating again, right? What Barrack is doing is coasting to the next primaries to avoid bumbling another debate. He knows he can’t win a debate against Hillary. He couldn’t win when all his supporters at MSNBC were moderating. He stumbles, stammers, and flat out doesn’t know the answers to issue-based questions. As for legitimate questions about his nefarious friends and associates, he just dismisses them, or lies.

Posted by: Emily | April 26, 2008, 11:37 pm 11:37 pm

Obama isafraid he will put his owh foot in his mouth again if he has to think fast on his feet. He’s been lying in his speeches and misleading his followers to believe he has what it takes to make a real change.You can’t win a game if you don’t know how to play. Obama doesn’t have a clue what politics are really about

Posted by: carla noble | April 26, 2008, 11:38 pm 11:38 pm

Obama is fake becuase he trys to sell himself as president useing slogans and logos instead of his plans and stances on issues. He’s not a politician, he’s McDonalds.

Posted by: WNYtoby | April 26, 2008, 11:40 pm 11:40 pm

It is just to bad that Hillary couldn’t get the job done. Perhaps if she had been ready from day one it would have been a different story.
So now she wants a debate, but Obama is allready moving on in his campaign getting ready for the GE and McCain. I am sure you understand the importance on getting on to the important work of returning the Democrates to office.
The time for talk has past and it will not get the job done.

Posted by: Thinking | April 26, 2008, 11:41 pm 11:41 pm

My America —- You asked Clinton people to “stay home come Nov.. But for god’s sake stop whining.” Whooops! There goes the Dems in November…..Introducing President McCain!!!!!

Posted by: Mark | April 26, 2008, 11:41 pm 11:41 pm

NO MORE Debates are between two men–this woman is a cheat.
OBAMA 08.

Posted by: Tariq Ahmed | April 26, 2008, 11:42 pm 11:42 pm

lisa: I am scared of nothing except a man I know nothing about, who lies and dismisses those lies as mis-speaking, whose thin resume is enhanced by more lies and innuendos about a record he does not possess, who has the AA vote in the palm of his hand despite never having done anything for any minority group in his political career, and most of all, a man who allows his campaign to play the race card against two people who have spent their entire political careers fighting for the rights of minorities and the disadvantaged among us. People of my generation do not fear change, dear, that’s a myth. But we are wise enough to see the emptiness of the “change” that your Senator Obama cloaks himself in, and I think in the good old days, respectful people referred to that not as fear, but wisdom.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 26, 2008, 11:43 pm 11:43 pm

I wan OBAMA vs McCain one on one no moderators.
OBAMA 08.

Posted by: Tariq Ahmed | April 26, 2008, 11:43 pm 11:43 pm

Why is Obama fake? He’s fake because he doesn’t know anything, hasn’t actually done anything, and doesn’t care about any of the people he’s pledged to serve. That’s what a fake and pretentious presidential candidate is all about.

Posted by: Emily | April 26, 2008, 11:44 pm 11:44 pm

Oh my goodness, I doesn’t seem to matter what kind of evidence is put in front of some of you poor people, you still can’t seem to get it. Barrack Obama will not debate, because he is a coward. He has the right to be afraid, because he is a fraud, and it is all starting to catch up with him. Why are you blaming Hillary?

Posted by: Tanya Kujath | April 26, 2008, 11:45 pm 11:45 pm

@ Grammy Barb: Fantastic post!!!!

Posted by: Emily | April 26, 2008, 11:46 pm 11:46 pm

Grammy Barb: You tell them Grammy…smile.

Posted by: Willie | April 26, 2008, 11:46 pm 11:46 pm

Hillary can use Obama’s refusal to debate as evidence that she is the stronger candidate and she deserves the nomination. Hillary has certainly proven that she is strong in debates, she has a mastery of the issues and policies, and even when moderators such as Tim Russert have tried to stump her, Hillary has come through with flying colors. Obama’s weaknesses as a candidate are starting to show, the chinks are appearing in the teflon. It says a great deal about Obama when he resorts to rapper dancing and giving the finger at Hillary on national television as a response to losing a debate. How would Iran’s Ahmadinejad feel about getting flipped the bird?

Posted by: frisco girl | April 26, 2008, 11:47 pm 11:47 pm

Hillary is very smart in offering Obama to debate right before North Carolina and Indiana primaries. It’s apparent he doesn’t want to, or is afraid. This will hurt him in the primaries because these folks already know he lost in the last one. Now he is afraid of debating again, so, in the minds of Amerian people, how would he handle a real crisis as President. I know the Obamabots think this is “childish” of Hillary, but it’s really not. I think, they should debate each other, WITHOUT moderators….that hasn’t happened yet. Hillary is ALWAYS on top of her game in debates, she’s exceptional. She would eat him alive and send him back to Illinois with his tails between his legs…this, without even bringing up, Wright, Rezko, Ayers, Nafta, Sub Prime lenders, and on and on and on….
HIllary 08 !

Posted by: david from texas | April 26, 2008, 11:48 pm 11:48 pm

@ Grammy Barb: I needed to read your post twice. Great post for the young-one to read.

Posted by: suzy | April 26, 2008, 11:50 pm 11:50 pm

Ray, if giving the finger to Hillary behind her back in a speech in North Carolina the day after his disasterous face to face debate with her in PA is an example of Obama’s “class”, I think I’ll pass. But thanks anyway.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 26, 2008, 11:50 pm 11:50 pm

Grammy Barb —- at 11:43 you posted what a LOT OF PEOPLE are thinking….thanks!

Posted by: mark | April 26, 2008, 11:51 pm 11:51 pm

Each time these two candidates have debated, the electorate learns more about each candidate. The more Obama is questioned, the more questionable he becomes, and the more suspect his character and judgmental capabilities come to light. Obama is hiding behind his cowardice in debating the girl candidate! He clearly can’t stand being whooped and can’t handle the political heat. His political campaigning naivete and inexperience are also apparent. Poor Obama; he can run, but he can’t hide!!

Posted by: Terry | April 26, 2008, 11:52 pm 11:52 pm

He sucks at debating and doesn’t know the issues like Clinton does. She doesn’t stammer and stutter when asked a question. We have already had one fool in the White House for the past 8 years we don’t need another.

Posted by: J | April 26, 2008, 11:52 pm 11:52 pm

I want to see Obama debate himself! Id vs. Ego! If he loses he can always blame himself for asking about Wright and Ayers. ” I did not say that!” “Yes I said that!” Now that I think about it if he is too afraid to debate Hillary then he is too afraid of himself to debate himself! I think he should then maybe he would see why he is not ready for prime time!

Posted by: russell | April 26, 2008, 11:55 pm 11:55 pm

Maybe at the last minute, Obama will sent Michelle to debate for him since he is too busy running for President.

Posted by: suzy | April 26, 2008, 11:57 pm 11:57 pm

Grammy Barb: You hit the nail right on the head!!!!!!

Posted by: Tanya Kujath | April 26, 2008, 11:58 pm 11:58 pm

The debates are for show casing the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates and their issues for the voters. The debates and the primaries are for the people so they can make an informed decision on who is the best candidate who supports the issues that will benefit the people not the elitist aristocracy. Obama refuses to do any more debates because, he performed miserably and lost all of the debates. Obama is elitist and does not respect the people because he can’t remember all the lies he has told during his campaign. Here are 76 lies and counting that Obama has told us at http://www.audacityofhypocrisy.com/?page_id=15 Find more lies told by Obama at http://www.hillaryclinton.com Click on the icon Fact Check. If Obama loses the primary his supporters say they will riot in the streets. Obama supporters want to turn the US into third world countries like Kenya and Zimbabwe. I thought this is a free country with free speech and the right to vote as we please. Rioting in the streets because their spoiled brat weak wimpy candidate Obama will lose this race for the President of the USA is very immature like Odinga Obama’s cousin inciting riots and death squads in Kenya. Mugabe doing the same in Zimbabwe because he is a mentally challenged immature sore loser. Be smart vote for the most qualified and experienced candidate for President of the USA Hillary Clinton who will respect the people, fix the economy and fight for the people

Posted by: Bob4USA | April 26, 2008, 11:58 pm 11:58 pm

LOL…suzy…I’d love to see Hillary wipe the floor with the Amazon…lol

Posted by: J | April 26, 2008, 11:59 pm 11:59 pm

ROTFLMAO I’m sure she does. She has nothing to lose and it makes a good sound bite to beg for one. He’s the front runner and as long as he has no major mishaps he will be the nominee. Even if they count the faulty elections in FL and MI he will still lead and the supers will throw their support to him before she has a chance to drag the party further through the mud in Denver…so try telling us again why he should even bother with her? After 20 some debates already? LOL Tell us another joke or just put the jokes “Hill Billies” back on T.V again for our entertainment.

Posted by: Brian | April 26, 2008, 11:59 pm 11:59 pm

Obama will debate only if he can use teleprompter.
Hillary is too smart!!!

Posted by: jt | April 27, 2008, 12:01 am 12:01 am

It doesn’t matter who you want. At this point it’s up to the super delegates. So why are you fighting

Posted by: erin | April 27, 2008, 12:01 am 12:01 am

@ Fryck -Formerly Raleigh Voter:
Didn’t think that last post sounded like you. Someone is obviously playing stupid games.

Posted by: Emily | April 27, 2008, 12:02 am 12:02 am

I heard that Howard Dean told Obama not to accept any more debates. Do any know it is true?

Posted by: Willie | April 27, 2008, 12:07 am 12:07 am

Just once I would like to see an Obama supporter defend his stance on the issues, defend his associations with the likes of Rezko, Ayers, and the Reverend Wright, tell us what great experience he has that qualifies him for the position of leader of the free world. Instead all you do is call Hillary supporters “racist”, or bring up the Monica story, or resort to crude language and lies about our choice. That in itself has been enough to make my decision easy for me. If the DNC and the liberal media continue to shove this Obama pretender down our throats and he is the Democratic nominee, I will have no problem voting for John McCain in November. I do not personally support many Republican views, but I will support an experienced, known American patriot before the great pretender Obama any day of the week.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 27, 2008, 12:10 am 12:10 am

Grammy Barb,
I totally agree with you.I am sick and tired of the Obama supporters bringing up stuff from 12 year ago. It’s old news. I will vote McCain before I would vote for Obama.

Posted by: J | April 27, 2008, 12:15 am 12:15 am

@ Willie:
I haven’t read anything about Howie “the scream” Dean telling Obama not to debate. However, it wouldn’t surprise me. I’m sure Axelrod told him not to debate Hillary again; echoed by Kennedy, Kerry, Pelosi, et al.
Any of them would be afraid to debate Hillary! Not one of them could beat her.

Posted by: Emily | April 27, 2008, 12:16 am 12:16 am

The person behind always wants more debates. What else is there to say? 21 debates is about all any of us can stand. Leaves more time for real campaigning.

Posted by: Gretchenmom | April 27, 2008, 12:17 am 12:17 am

If one stumbling debate prevents Obama from further debate, how strong is Obama? How can he lead the country if he cannot even recover from a single fall?
He painted himself as a “CHANGE” agent? How can he change the Washington if he can not stand up after a single debate failure?
Rev. Wright said “Obama is a politician” who speaks political language. Is politics itself game-playing in nature?
Obama complained fairness in latest debate. Were they fair in previous debates? Is it always fair in our daily life? Is media always unbiased?
Reading through all the media, She is mentioned as “Hillary Rodham Clinton” in 70% of time. How many time does the media mentioned Obama’s middle name? Even in the same article, I always noticed that she had three parts in her name, but only two in his name. So is politics game playing?
I would say Hillary’s perserance impressed me the most. We need a strong leader for this GREAT nation. We might need thousand tries before we can achieve our predominent economical and political leading position in the world.
If you simply “cling” to the guns and religious after “bitter” economic situation, how can we recover from the economical dilema? How can we deal with dispearing middle class and how can we help those who lost or are losing their homes, and/or jobs?

Posted by: No Commenter | April 27, 2008, 12:17 am 12:17 am

Hillary Clinton and Barak Obamas actions and words towards each other, over the past year is a disgrace to all of America! They both should just go away. They are acting like a couple of petty teenagers trying to win a popularity contest.

Posted by: Mike McCausley | April 27, 2008, 12:18 am 12:18 am

Emily,
What a band of idiots you mentioned…lol. Obama and his merry men and women.

Posted by: J | April 27, 2008, 12:18 am 12:18 am

@ Grammy Barb: Again, great post!! againHillary or McCain

Posted by: bobby | April 27, 2008, 12:18 am 12:18 am

I’d be happy with McCain.
His foreign plicy is just as bad as Hillary, but he at least has some fiscal responsibility.
I am so ready for G/E. Go Obama (or McCain).

Posted by: My America | April 27, 2008, 12:19 am 12:19 am

She is really sounding desperate.

Posted by: ayla | April 27, 2008, 12:23 am 12:23 am

Gretchenmom
There have actually only been 4 debates between Clinton and Obama. He won’t debate because unless it is a written speech the man can’t talk intelligently .

Posted by: J | April 27, 2008, 12:23 am 12:23 am

Chad…..Hillary feels its very important that the issues be brought to the forefront for Americans. Without moderators, then each candidate would be free to express their thoughts and continue to establish their platforms as President. With the race being a virtual tie right now, a debate is needed. Both candidates need to face off for America. America needs to see how they react under pressure. Now, why do you think Obama doesn’t want to debate? Of course you are going to think its because, as many Obamabots say, he is winning, when in all actuality, he is behind in popular vote. His rhetoric is a shamble without a teleprompter. He knows it, so does America. Lets face it, the guy has lied time and again and was the “golden boy” of the media for 15 mos. Hillary woke up each day with an almost insurmountable hill to climb, but through perserverance, she has overcome, and is on her way to the White House. That’s the kind of President I want. As Maya Angelo, (Clinto endorser put it), Hillary, has been trampled to the dust of the road by the media, Obama, and Obama supporters….however, like dust, when the negative winds are blowing, dust rises……..Hillary rise, Hillary rise, HILLARY RISE !!!!! Face it, Clinton has more passion for the American people in her pinky than Obama has in his whole body! HILLARY 08!

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 12:23 am 12:23 am

McCain did not start the war in Iraq, so I cant blame him for that and say I will with hold my vote from him if Obama is the nominee.
My choice is Hillary, but I will stand with MaCain if she does not get the nod, at least he is a true patriot his service and dedication to this country cannot be question.
I will not have to worry that if another 911 was to ever happen the president may end up mumbling and wondering what to do, and most of all I will not ever have to wonder if President McCain still thinks America is a place with faults and his wife thinks it’s evil.

Posted by: SJ | April 27, 2008, 12:27 am 12:27 am

Yes, david from texas, RISE HILLARY, RISE!

Posted by: Emily | April 27, 2008, 12:27 am 12:27 am

McCain did not start the war in Iraq, so I cant blame him for that and say I will with hold my vote from him if Obama is the nominee.
My choice is Hillary, but I will stand with MaCain if she does not get the nod, at least he is a true patriot his service and dedication to this country cannot be question.
I will not have to worry that if another 911 was to ever happen the president may end up mumbling and wondering what to do, and most of all I will not ever have to wonder if President McCain still thinks America is a place with faults and his wife thinks it’s evil.

Posted by: SJ | April 27, 2008, 12:27 am 12:27 am

Why does Clinton want such a debate? She does not have the guts to ask the tough questions. Will she ask O’bama about his faux attempt to distance himself from Jeremiah Wright with the Machiavellian intent to withhold the truth about his being a Black Nationalist until he has duped enough voters to win the Democratic nominee? Each time I listen to Jeremiah Wright I find myself agreeing with him only to do more research and find the deceit. His statement that “America’s chickens are coming home to roost” was taken from a sppech written by Malcolm X. Malcolm X wrote his speech after the assassination of John F. Kennedy whereas Wright used that phrase after the 911 destruction of the twin towers. How ghoulish can you be? O’bama has supported a Church for 20 years whose vision statement is based on the writings of Dr. James Cone who does not believe God is a God of all people – that God is only a God of the oppressed under the oppression of Whites. I will once again support O’bama when he unequivocally rejects the Black Nationalist/Power tone of the Church he has supported for 20 years. Martin Luther King Jr. was right when he said Black Power is a desturctive philosophy.

Posted by: ShelbyBob35051 | April 27, 2008, 12:28 am 12:28 am

“It takes 2025 delegates to win the nomination. The press has bought into the Obama spin that because he is ahead he should get the nomination. In reality, they’re in a virtual tie. The rules never said that the person in the lead gets it, they say you need 2025. After that there needs to be a floor fight at the convention.”
cda
I could not agree with you more! What people don’t seem to understand is that if neither candidate reaches the qualifying number of delegates, then there is no winner. That means they both lose! At that time, the floor either fights it out or comes up with a compromise.

Posted by: rulesarerules | April 27, 2008, 12:29 am 12:29 am

John Mccain has life time experience.
Clinton has very real good experience, but Obama has less exprience. That is why he afraid of.
Bite Obama 08 (no Exprience => big lose 08)

Posted by: who win | April 27, 2008, 12:30 am 12:30 am

karma: If John McCain wins the GE, don’t you dare put his Iraq policy at the feet of the many Clinton supporters who will put him there. Put it where it belongs, at the feet of a corrupt and biased DNC who have done everything in their power, with the help of an ultra left wing media, to cast aside the one person who could have handily beaten McCain in the GE, Hillary Clinton. And how do you know that an Obama Presidency won’t do our nation and its citizens much more harm than an extended stay in Iraq? You don’t, because you really don’t know who Obama is, and what he really has planned for this country. And neither do I, so McCain it is. I may not like everything he stands for, but at least I know what I’m getting, and that is, an American patriot.

Posted by: Grammy Barb | April 27, 2008, 12:32 am 12:32 am

Enough with debates. They keep throwing numbers and policies out knowing fully well that the average citizen does not have the tools to analyze them critically. Instead we go by feelings and whether these sound right or whether it is appealing. As long as we remain ignorant we will easily be misled. The Clinton administration was instrumental in passing NAFTA. Now they are talking about how NAFTA hurt us and how they are going to set it right. The politicians have no shame they will continue to do what they are doing as along as we go by feelings and opinions and ignore facts.

Posted by: worldsam | April 27, 2008, 12:34 am 12:34 am

to rulesarerules……you are absolutely right! This nomination will be decided on the convention floor……and, the Super Delegates will make the decision. Now, what I hope supporters of BOTH candidates realize, is that the Super D’s can change their mind at the convention on the candidate, even if they have publicly endorsed her/him. What is weighing heavily on the Super D’s minds, right now, is that I feel, they are looking to see which one is most electable. And, with Wright resurfacing, Obama refusing to debate, the new Ayers tapes that were found and the list goes on, Obama seems to be imploding. Hillary has every right to jump on this and bring it to the forefront. Obama and the media have been doing this to her for 15 mos. I don’t think I have EVER seen a candidate with her perserverance and passion. Another thing the Super D’s are looking very closely at, is the blue-collar white vote. Every candidate int he General Election needs this vote and the Catholic vote as well in order to win the Presidenchy. Hillary has won these two areas of voters in every state, whether she won or lost. Hillsary 08!

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 12:38 am 12:38 am

Pardon my distrust but what is really behind the Clinton debate proposal? Wouldn’t it be more expedient for the candidates to simply continue their own individual meetings with the citizens of the remaining primary states and talk about the ISSUES. There’s a sting in that Scorpio tail….

Posted by: Stephen Parker | April 27, 2008, 12:40 am 12:40 am

Grammy Barb: Five stars for Grammy

Posted by: cookie | April 27, 2008, 12:40 am 12:40 am

Fake ? Here is the fake . You can verify all of this if not too lazy ( big if ! ) .Hillatry Clinton’s ” 35 years of experience ” , just plain hog wash . To start with, for 14 of the 35 years that she’s counting, Clinton was a full-time corporate litigator in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the Rose Law Firm.She was on WalMart’s Board of Directors from 1986-1992, a company legendary for its low wages and union busting. Not surprisingly, her official biography omits this six-year stint.She was First Lady in Arkansas , not policy maker , to show how important she was do you know who the wife of the governor of your state is ? Likely not .And of course she was first lady in the White house , not law or policy maker , she didn’t even have top security clearance , she had a full time job trying to keep Bill’s pants on . She has been a Senator for seven years and in that time has distinguished herself as the Queen of pork and lobbyists $ and of course doing favors in return . The corporations don’t give bribe money for nothing in return folks .This is Rodham’s thirty five years of experience .

Posted by: Ray | April 27, 2008, 12:45 am 12:45 am

Obama is a chicken and a paper tiger who talks about meeting our enemies in his first year of presidency while his knees shaking. He only has the guts to vote “present”. He will be a “present” leader.

Posted by: v,ca | April 27, 2008, 12:46 am 12:46 am

Listen up Hillary lovers. Obama was never predicted to win Penn. He closed a 20 point gap down to about 8.75. It was not a 10 point lead. That came in the news the night of thedebate when the media were predicting the results. She did not win by double digits as she bragged about. Only failing candidates are arrogant to press for more debates. This is a sure sign Helliry is hurting. I am suprised Obama has not brought up what Helliry said to bill in 1995 about southern white blue collar workers. Does she want a debate this bad? I woud love Obama to bring this to her face since this was her support in Penn. Her qoute. “Screw ‘em,” she told her husband. “You don’t owe them a thing, Bill. They’re doing nothing for you; you don’t have to do anything for them.”
I do not need to say much more. She is a sneak, and not for all the people. She is a pathetic lying loser.

Posted by: Brandon M Casey | April 27, 2008, 12:47 am 12:47 am

Well, I don’t blame Barack Obama for not wanting to debate Hillary any more after he got spanked in Pennsylvania.
What a great example of his leadership skills. If he runs away from an opponent in a primary, what would he do when the world leaders call him out?
Yeah, that’s right! He would run a little bit faster!

Posted by: Jayhawk | April 27, 2008, 12:47 am 12:47 am

Why aren’t Obama supporters not excited about him debating again? Simple. They don’t believe in him.
___________________________________
Don’t Get Mad….Get Strong
Hillary ’08

Posted by: AK | April 27, 2008, 12:48 am 12:48 am

SUNMAKER: i am from northwest in and im voting for hillary.

Posted by: delite820 | April 27, 2008, 12:51 am 12:51 am

WOW !!!!!! ShelbyBob35051……..you DEFINITELY know what you are talking about with the research to back it up! Excellent Post !
Hillary 08!

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 12:56 am 12:56 am

Obama will not debate because there are no teleprompters to tell him what to say…..

Posted by: carla sue | April 27, 2008, 1:00 am 1:00 am

Obama is not ducking debates. He is using an excellent strategy and will hopefully wrap up the nomination soon. HRC wants debates because she is low on money due to her own mismanagement and it is free coverage. Obama can run TV ads and get his message out at will. Plus, she knows that she will likely get more help from biased moderators who continue to perpetuate the lies and misrepresentations about him that have been in the media based on selective editing of comments made by Rev Wright. See the comments made by Rev. Wright’s sermon IN CONTEXT on Bill Moyers interview. You will find, as usual, we the American public are being made fools of by a media that does not bother to tell us the whole truth and others that just want to win any cost. We are not stupid, we can handle the truth about our country. The good and the bad. We don’t need the continuing series of lies and out of context misquotations. Even with all the negative attacks on Obama and the fact that he is running against 3 politicians at this point (HRC, BC and McSame), he has still won. He has the most pledged delegates and they can’t change that. Odds are almost zero that she can catch up. She can use what ever math she wants, she will not win if the DNC follow the rules. The only way for HRC to win is to steal it in the back room. If the voters allow this to happen then we get what we deserve, more of the same (McSame).

Posted by: NotSuprised | April 27, 2008, 1:11 am 1:11 am

Is Obama really using teleprompters? Isn’t he a lawyer, a Harvard graduate no less? So why would he need a teleprompter? And the next question is, how many teleprompters would he need when he becomes president? Would taxpayers be paying their salaries?
We don’t need a puppet for a president. There would be no teleprompters at 3:00 am.
Hillary08

Posted by: Remy | April 27, 2008, 1:31 am 1:31 am

Obama does not want to lose face again at another debate. He can only read what was given to him. Just like Reagan. He was good at ready scripts. What an actor. Obama might be a good “inspirational speaker” but not the right presdential candidate. How can he run for the president if he declines to debate.
Our BEST CHOICE IS HILLARY CLINTON! Go Hillary. More debate, more debate. Let Obama embarrass himself.

Posted by: Agnes | April 27, 2008, 1:32 am 1:32 am

The Clintons make me sick. Of course they want to debate. It’s ree TV exposure when your behind and broke.

Posted by: Gretchenmom | April 27, 2008, 1:36 am 1:36 am

So how bout it Obama? I’m waiting. I would LOVE to see such a debate.

Posted by: Sandra | April 27, 2008, 1:45 am 1:45 am

@ any Republicans who might be watching us Dems rip each other up. Or any Dems who want to take a break from the mudslinging…
Much is made of Republican support for Obama. This is one of the arguments for his chances in the general election – he appeals across party lines.
Can anyone explain to me why so many Republicans at the same time hate McCain – in some ways a moderate, in any case someone willing to cross party lines? But then others say they prefer Obama, the Senator with the most liberal voting record in 2007 (according to the National Journal).
What’s going on here?

Posted by: JWF | April 27, 2008, 1:47 am 1:47 am

What she is proposing is NOT a Lincoln Douglass debate. That was one speaker for 1 hour, the next speaker for 1 1/2 hours, and then a rejoinder by the first speaker for 1/2 hour. There were 7 LD debates on slavery. What she is proposing for a 22nd debates is 2 minute sound bite trade-off/free-for-all (assuming that he/she does not interrupt) that can loop on national TV.

Posted by: Corinne Aragaki | April 27, 2008, 1:52 am 1:52 am

From the Chicago reporter who knows Obama best, please read his entire article. Here’s an excerpt:
“I spoke to Jones earlier this week and he confirmed his conversation with Kelley, adding that he gave Obama the legislation because he believed in Obama’s ability to negotiate with Democrats and Republicans on divisive issues.
So how has Obama repaid Jones?
Last June, to prove his commitment to government transparency, Obama released a comprehensive list of his earmark requests for fiscal year 2008. It comprised more than $300 million in pet projects for Illinois, including tens of millions for Jones’s Senate district.
Shortly after Jones became Senate president, I remember asking his view on pork-barrel spending.
I’ll never forget what he said:
“Some call it pork; I call it steak.”
Everything Obama did in Illinois, he did in one year’s time.

Posted by: LonghornMama | April 27, 2008, 1:52 am 1:52 am

Just listened to Fox News and it appears Chris Wallace flew to Indiana tonite to interview Obama, which will be aired tomorrow morning. From Chris’ response tonite, it seems as if the crack in Obama’s armour will get wider after this interview is aired. Chris asked Obama about debating Hillary again, saying the American public has a right to see their candidates tackle the issues, but Obama refused, which, seems very negative to Chris. Should be interesting.
Hillary 08 !

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 1:54 am 1:54 am

DavidfromTexas: Negative to Chris? Who cares what Chris “the Republican puppet” Wallace thinks?

Posted by: ron | April 27, 2008, 1:56 am 1:56 am

@Grammy Barb,
Excellent comment.
Thanks.

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 1:59 am 1:59 am

The electoral map favors Hillary Clinton. If Dems are serious about winning in November, it’s time to pay serious attention to those numbers.

Posted by: LonghornMama | April 27, 2008, 2:00 am 2:00 am

Negative to the American public. Obama just continues to implode. With Wright resurfacing, which, its seems that Wright bascially said that Obama lied about being in his church during the hate sermons. According to Gallup, Hillary and Obama are both tied at 47% for the democratic nominee, tied at 45% in Indiana, and Hillary is fast closing in on Obama’s lead in North Carolina.
Hillary 08 !

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 2:01 am 2:01 am

This nomination will be decided on the convention floor……and, the Super Delegates will make the decision. Now, what I hope supporters of BOTH candidates realize, is that the Super D’s can change their mind at the convention on the candidate, even if they have publicly endorsed her/him. What is weighing heavily on the Super D’s minds, right now, is that I feel, they are looking to see which one is most electable. And, with Wright resurfacing, Obama refusing to debate, the new Ayers tapes that were found and the list goes on, Obama seems to be imploding. Hillary has every right to jump on this and bring it to the forefront. Obama and the media have been doing this to her for 15 mos. I don’t think I have EVER seen a candidate with her perserverance and passion. Another thing the Super D’s are looking very closely at, is the blue-collar white vote. Every candidate int he General Election needs this vote and the Catholic vote as well in order to win the Presidenchy. Hillary has won these two areas of voters in every state, whether she won or lost. Hillsary 08!

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 2:03 am 2:03 am

HILLARY MIGHT NOT HAVE AS MUCH MONEY AS OBAMA, BUT SHE’S JUST TRYING TO PROVE THAT OBAMA IS A WHIMP. THAT JUST PROVES HOW STRONG OBAMA REALLY IS HE IS JUST AVOIDING A DEBATE IMAGAIN HOW MUCH IMPORTANT THINGS HE WILL BE AVOIDING IN JUST BECAUSE HE IS TOO WEAK. ONE MORE THING I JUST WANT TO SAY THAT OBAMA SHOULD STOP LYING ABOUT THAT HE IS GOING TO LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE, BECAUSE ALL THE MONEY HE GETS TO HELP HIS CAMPAIGN IS FROM BIG RICH COMPANIES.

Posted by: jorge | April 27, 2008, 2:04 am 2:04 am

Hillary just NEEDS some free air time and a big audience! She KNOWS good and well that everyone will tune in to see Senator Obama and will have no choice but to listen and watch her cackling and grandstanding!
Thank you Senator Obama for sparing us the agony!!
See there…he’s already easing the people’s pain!

Posted by: Danni | April 27, 2008, 2:04 am 2:04 am

Obama , don’t hide please.
We don’t need ads on tv, radio which only promoting you .
We need to hear direct from yourself about the economy, healthcare and other issues.

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 2:05 am 2:05 am

Jorge……Obama outspent Hillary in Pennsylvania 3 to 1 and she still won! Money isn’t everything, its the hearts and the minds of the people when they go vote. As it is rapidly appearing, the hearts and minds of the people are to elect a nominee that has substance, passion, and fortitude…..and, can beat McCain in the GE. That candidate is Hillary Clinton ! Hillary 08 !

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 2:10 am 2:10 am

Wimp Chinks are getting bigger in OBAMA’s Electtabilty Armour .

Posted by: Jack Miller | April 27, 2008, 2:14 am 2:14 am

David from Texas,
Good comments. Thanks

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 2:14 am 2:14 am

AK,
Good point.

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 2:17 am 2:17 am

Wimp Chinks are getting bigger in OBAMA’s Electtabilty Armour .

Posted by: Jack Miller | April 27, 2008, 2:20 am 2:20 am

JWF…..you are absolutely right…..thanks for reinforcing the correct perspective!

Posted by: david from texas | April 27, 2008, 2:32 am 2:32 am

So, this time no blame to ABC, right?
Blame who?

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 2:39 am 2:39 am

I think a debate about the ISSUES and no moderators is a fantastic opportunity for BOTH candidates to present their ideas without all that “he said she said” nonsense that goes nowhere and is quite ridiculous. I hope Obama agrees to it, he has nothing to lose, such a well-spoken and educated individual. I think a debate like that would benefit him more…again as long as they stay on the issues. Lets cross our fingers.

Posted by: slny | April 27, 2008, 2:39 am 2:39 am

No O it’s not hard to figure YOU out!
At a gas station in Indianapolis today, Obama was asked why he keeps losing working-class voters
“It’s hard for me to figure that out, given that, you know, I was raised with far fewer advantages than either of my two remaining opponents,” Obama said.
“ given that, you know, I was raised with far fewer advantages than either of my two remaining opponents,” Ob said.
What a big fib!!! he went to private high school in Hawaii. and he went to Occidental College a private small school in Eagle Rock in southern California. A posh liberal arts college. Mostly white and asian students. No African American major or Minor. He must not have had the grades to go to UCLA.
He will say anything of the top of his head to a gas station attentant. I which I was next to that guy to ask Senator Ob if he considers Occidental College a school for the under privileged. With the Media bias and people blogging to trash our candidates from as far away as China Malaysia and Africa and Europe, to sway the opinion in our country, one has to think twice on the day he holds his ballot. That is the only moment that count.There is a wave of international bloggers who know more about our politics than some of us do. they infiltrate the blogs and youdon’t know who you are carrying a conversation with. I EXPERIENCED THIS ON WASHING POST when it dawned on me that the person could not understand simple words but wrote perfect English. Better than mine I tell you. BEWARE OF WHO IS BLOGGING TO SWAY OUR ELECTION. Hillary has little chance since most of her voters are poor old and bitter few if any come close to a computer let alone know how to blog. So with all the money and all this paraphanelia? Why can’t he close the Deal? BECAUSE HE’S A FRAUD

Posted by: ruthmatters | April 27, 2008, 2:44 am 2:44 am

Obamas strength is in public speaking. Making speeches. Its not handling crisis, or taking a punch, or debating.
He just doesnt happen to be good at…you know……the things you NEED to be good at to be president.
Instead, Clinton or Mc Cain should send him around the country to be a motivational speaker.
Like Anthony Robbins
Or Tom Vu

Posted by: tomdavie | April 27, 2008, 2:49 am 2:49 am

@David from Texas,
I can’t wait to see it tomorrow morning.
Wow,,Chris has to fly down there because Obama has never answered his calls.
I still remember when Chris interviewed Chris Dodd about Obama’s pastor.
He never gave up until Dodd surrendered with awkward smile.

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 2:53 am 2:53 am

yeah I said this too about a year ago
“Informmercial” type of a guy.
Sign up today!! And like his assitant manager (Richardson said “Tis the opportunity of a life time”. we’re only here today.Sign up now!

Posted by: ruthmatters | April 27, 2008, 2:56 am 2:56 am

Right on ruthmatters….the facts are that Obama can only speak when lead to. He is a great imitator of the greats. But if you stand him on his own two feet (does he have any) he cannot speak without stammering or stuttering. Obama needs the teleprompter to tell him what to do and what to say.
I say, Obama, debate with Hillary if you have the guts……

Posted by: carla sue | April 27, 2008, 3:00 am 3:00 am

@Ruthmatters,
Good comments.
He also attended private high school in Indonesia which was quite expensive.
Nobody knows his chidhood background in Indonesia.

Posted by: crisis08 | April 27, 2008, 3:06 am 3:06 am

Jake, that is going a bit far with the anti-christ deal here. If you want to say she is a proven liar, then fine, but so is Obama. Let us look at what we are dealing with here……gee, I sat in a church pew for 20 years and haven’t heard anything…..ugh, let’s see, rattso and I don’t know each other….duh…my wife (who the great rev. wrong married me to) says for the first time in her life she is proud to be an American. Oh wait….then there’s the NBPP, Ayers, the Rev Wright, bitter small town Americans…ugh, the white man created HIV to destroy the black man….WTF?????

Posted by: carla sue | April 27, 2008, 3:17 am 3:17 am

Right on Bob4USA….been there, done that.

Posted by: carla sue | April 27, 2008, 3:27 am 3:27 am

Obama supporters and Hillary haters paint her as a wicked witch. If more than 60% of non black voters prefer wicked witch over Obama then can you imagine how many of them will prefer a national hero over Obama.

Posted by: satish | April 27, 2008, 3:29 am 3:29 am

YOu don’t have to love her. Just remember that your vote helps decide who’s going to lead this country for the next four years!
Hillary has the solutions. She has already gotten health care for 6,000,000 children!
Forget the “distractions”. She’s a woman of substance and accomplishment!
If you’re looking for reading material, go th “Obama’s Laundry List Of Lies”

Posted by: eyes wide open | April 27, 2008, 3:32 am 3:32 am

Let us not talk about the ‘anti-christ’….that is really getting off topic here. We are here to express our love and support for our candidate of our choice. Let freedom ring.

Posted by: carla sue | April 27, 2008, 3:39 am 3:39 am

The first post commented that no way would Obama aggree to a debate.Then that settles it. NO votes.
Once and for all we are all ears about your hope and change. Your refusal is sending a message that you don’t care about the average voters. The internet and elites are doing all the talking for you. NO debate! No Washington! Not without my vote!

Posted by: ruthmatters | April 27, 2008, 3:39 am 3:39 am

No Debates. Another reason for what Obama is Not Electable.

Posted by: Felixdiaz1 | April 27, 2008, 4:04 am 4:04 am

Obama’s right to decline – There’s an old saying that goes something like, “Don’t mud wrestle with a pig. You’ll both get muck all over you, but the pig actually enjoys it! Stay out of the mud, Obama. Let Clinton wallow in it all she wants… alone and dejected.

Posted by: Namako OH3 | April 27, 2008, 4:07 am 4:07 am

it is purely amazing to me that America has managed to divide herself into 2 such clear-cut camps…
liberals/democrats and conservatives/republicans. you’re either one or the other, nothing in the middle is allowed. and now the democrats are self-destructing by further dividing into subcategories of same-same candidates who are pummeling each other over non-issue issues because they can’t find a common battleground to fight in since they both advocate a tax-the-middle-class and donate to the welfare class economic stance while saving the “poor dumb suckers who’ve been led astray by the military- industrial conspirators.” meanwhile, the republicans are at a standstill with a candidate who has a “nasty reputation” as a free-thinker who actually goes against the party line here and there and is tagged with the crimes of an administration that he hasn’t exactly gotten along with….comical. where are all the independants hiding?

Posted by: toney | April 27, 2008, 4:12 am 4:12 am

gallup: Clinton holds a 3 percentage point advantage over John McCain in the general election contest, while McCain and Obama are tied.

Posted by: libre | April 27, 2008, 4:23 am 4:23 am

Oama is not using his rightto decline, he is chickened out, because he freezzes ifhe does not have a pre-written script.

Posted by: libre | April 27, 2008, 4:25 am 4:25 am

Liberals are politicians who promise the most but deliver the least. We don’t need a far left liberal for a leader. Have the debates and rip each other apart…we don’t need an unknown or a has been in the White House.
Yes we have had enough of George Bush and his moderate crowd…we need a real leader to emerge from the Republican conservative party…wake up America…we don’t want proabortionists and socialists taking over our country…America the Beautiful….Stand up and be counted…for God for guns for Freedom!!

Posted by: Love it or Leave it | April 27, 2008, 4:33 am 4:33 am

McCain will probably win easily. I don’t think many Obama supporters can vote for Hillary, or vice versa. It’s small consolation, but least my 2nd choice will win.

Posted by: DennisNC | April 27, 2008, 4:49 am 4:49 am

We want to hear about this in the debate.Most people don’t read editorials.Yes, News papers and magazines are expensive these days let’s face it. But try ignorance.
Read these lately?
Talk about lies and sneakiness!!Obama said to palestinian Electronic Intifada cofounder Ali ahbumina who was complaining about the sudden change of Obama’s switching to “pro israel” quote” I’m sorry I haven’t said more about Palestine right now, but we are in a tough primary race. I’m hoping when things(here’s that thing again folks) calm down I can be more up front.” He referred to my activism, including columns I was contributing to the The Chicago Tribune critical of Israeli and US policy, “Keep up the good work!” Liar to jews in their faces behind their back. Liar! Liar! liar! Will the real Obama please stand up!

Posted by: ruthmatters | April 27, 2008, 4:49 am 4:49 am

McCain will probably win easily. I don’t think many Obama supporters can vote for Hillary, or vice versa. It’s small consolation, but least my 2nd choice will win.

Posted by: DennisNC | April 27, 2008, 4:51 am 4:51 am

What a sad, pathetic, desperate attempt by Hillary to get free publicity. 21 debates folks. If people can´t make up their minds after that, then I don´t know what to tell you. One more debate isn´t going to settle anything. I´m tired of Hillary attacking Obama on non-issues. All she does is wait like a predator for a minor slip and she pounces and makes a mountain out of a mole hill.

Posted by: George | April 27, 2008, 4:51 am 4:51 am

Bush’s Swiftboater’s had nothing on Hillary’s. Their lies get bigger every day.

Posted by: DennisNC | April 27, 2008, 4:57 am 4:57 am

“Clinton can campaign for votes, and then never loses them.
Ombamba can get his voters all rilled up, but they dont stick to him .”
————————————-
That if funny considering that Hillary started the campaign as the odds on favorite and is now behind.
Many Democrats will refuse to reward Hillary for her betrayal (You know what I’m talking about.). Why should Democratic reps we’ve elected ever do anything for us if we reward them regardless of what they do.

Posted by: DennisNC | April 27, 2008, 5:06 am 5:06 am

WE THE PEOPLE READ,
BILL CLINTON IN OREGON: If that is old politics, who are we leaving behind in America? That’s part of the problem, we’ve got a government now that’s left too many people behind.
PLEASSSSSSSSE DON’T TELL HILLARY & BILL HAS RESORT TO ‘BORROWING’ PRESIDENT OBAMA’S W O R D S!!!!!!!!!!!DOES THAT STATEMENT, FROM BILL, REMIND US OF PRESIDENT OBAMA SPEECHES…FROM DAY 1 OOOOH-H-H NOOOOOOO, TELL ME IT AIN’T SOOO!

Posted by: MS KITTI | April 27, 2008, 5:36 am 5:36 am

i can see people in total darkness..in Hillary camp…instead of focusing on real issues affecting American people now…they think about debate…for what?….for you.. spreading lies,division and hate among democrats..voters…truelly Hillary is a race divider only thinking about them self and not the walfare of American people..Not againg in the white house..We are not in the monarcy system country…but democary country…let the people decide.You had your time …8 good years in white house…we saw what clinton and Bush did in white house …all mess up…the economy,war,poor health care policies,shifted jobs overseas,and so on…Not again ..American are waking up now..they see the light to the future with hope and progress….and that light is Obama…We need to turn the page now and stop all what had been happening in white house…so dear Hillary no more debate face the American people and get the real issues from themselves rather than debate…Not all America are rich like you…some are poor and they can not even afford the T.v.or Radio today…Face the nation physically and see the reality of what is happening now….so Hillary go out and see American people how the suffer in all parts of America…Then that is the time to call for debate……We used to have meals 3 times a day now only one time or nothing at all…and you want debate!…..so face the nation for reallity first…..Physically….and not on televison….we a poor not like you…So Obama turn the page…now into reallity….Go on Obama…2008…Yes we can….

Posted by: kibs | April 27, 2008, 5:48 am 5:48 am

Hillary take people to be fools, MODERATORS OR NOT, if you gonna ask each other questions, watch instead of 54 mins on Rev WRight; Watch Hillary take the 2 hrs asking about Rev Wright, and Barack should agree to that
W..riiiiiight .
Obama 08 /.. Enough already Hillary’ just go away ; 58% of the country cant stand you and that number will only rise.

Posted by: a tired-DEM | April 27, 2008, 5:56 am 5:56 am

I hope a movie is made about the 2008 elections… Primary Colors anyone?
I’m for Hillary.

Posted by: Facetious Student | April 27, 2008, 6:02 am 6:02 am

Obama the elitist borrow those words from President Clinton (said at lesat 12 years ago.) Obama is divisive, unexperienced, radical, unelectable.

Posted by: libre | April 27, 2008, 6:04 am 6:04 am

atired Dem So you think Obama is uncapable to handle a debate? is he so unprepared? McCain will do the same asking him about Wright and Ayers, and Farrakahn and Rezko duting the wholeGeneral elections. He is unelectable.

Posted by: libre | April 27, 2008, 6:07 am 6:07 am

Galup: Clinton holds a 3 percentage point advantage over John McCain in the general election contest, while McCain and Obama are tied.

Posted by: libre | April 27, 2008, 6:09 am 6:09 am

Obama is affraid of debates and interviews. Every time that we know a little bit more about him the more it shows he is no more than a salesman. good writing good speeches. No spine, no substance. No chance.

Posted by: libre | April 27, 2008, 6:18 am 6:18 am

Obama should not agree with clinton on the debate issue. She knows she won’t win and all she wants to do is stray off topics and make Obama appear to stray off is campaign message of not tearing people down. When Obama talks about Hillary, he congratulates her and then he explains the difference that they have. Hillary doesn’t do that she just throw muds about anything. The dirts that the media choose not report is large, and Obama doesn’t want to go there. Instead he focuses on issues that the American people need. If Hillary becomes the nominee, the repulicans surely won’t go easire on her. Talk about guilty by association, Hillary’s history is full them.

Posted by: Grace | April 27, 2008, 6:24 am 6:24 am

Debates only serve to emphasize exactly what is going on here a great division in the democractic party. more debates will serve the interest of the Republicans because it is an opportunity for them to tear both candidates down. This should be a free run without debates until August. Leaving the democratic party less at the mercy of the Republicansjdivisive press coverage. There were enough negative reviews about clinton after the PA debates that cost her the double digit lead and got Obama more votes than he would have gotten. Likewise, the negative reviews, about Clinton sailing on the bitter remarks upped the votes for Obama too he shouldn’t have gotten in PA. Debates are a weapon the Republican press is using against both candidates. Don’t give the Republicans any more wind for criticisim. Stick to the rally’s and the voting booths and don’t give no more meat to the lions. The last debate by the way was an international disgrace. You all need to read the international press coverage on these elections!

Posted by: Pete | April 27, 2008, 6:36 am 6:36 am

Seems like there are a lot of divisions in the Democrat party that some would like to see swept under the rug. It’s basically lose-lose for the Dems.

Posted by: Kitty | April 27, 2008, 6:44 am 6:44 am

when you have collectors after you, no money for ads you can sink low enough to ask for a debate without moderators. what a circus that would be.

Posted by: Sam | April 27, 2008, 6:54 am 6:54 am

Up until now Obama has been able to, in the words of Louis Farrakhan, bamboozle and hoodwink enough white people that when added to the 90% of black votes he get have given him more delegates. Obama says he wants to reach as many people as possible, but when given the chance to reach at least 10 MILLION people at one time, he is afraid. What is he afraid of? Does he realize that it is safer to bamzoozle and hoodwink small groups of people rather than take a chance and slip and say something unscripted for everyone to hear and make it harder to spin. Could it be that it would be harder for him to spin Hillary’s positions if voters heard them first hand from Hillary? Obama is afraid to debate a woman so how can America expect him to stand against terrorists? Come November, if Obama is the nominee, Republicans will paint him as a coward and at least 1/2 of Dems will not be able to honestly defend against their charge because they will believe it as well.

Posted by: tiredofit | April 27, 2008, 7:12 am 7:12 am

Hillary is nothing but a distraction and a nuisance. It is time to focus on McCain.

Posted by: Bob, DC | April 27, 2008, 7:15 am 7:15 am

No story here.
He wants to make speeches because he is good at it and can control the tone.
She wants to debate because she is good at it and they show her in a good light.
More game playing from both sides.

Posted by: enough | April 27, 2008, 7:20 am 7:20 am

Instead of a debate, how about a game of hoops, 1-on-1, for all the marbles!

Posted by: Bob, DC | April 27, 2008, 7:23 am 7:23 am

As American citizens we are tired of:
Empty slogans: Change you can count on – does not say if it is good change or bad change.
Dangerous mentors: We are tired of the anti-American poison coming from Rev. Wright and the weathermen bombers.
We are tired of the “race-baiting” of the Obama campaign.
We are tired of the condescending tone of the former editor of the Harvard Law Review. This elitist puppy is no good for America. He has plenty of fleas you can count on.

Posted by: Lance | April 27, 2008, 7:27 am 7:27 am

Enough debates already? The last debate between Rhodam Clinton and Obama attracted over 10 million viewers. I think the people want to hear more Mr. Obama.
And you have only had 4 debates with her alone.
It’s so interesting how Obama and his supporters just are so afraid of losing that they’ll curse, insult, disenfranchise Fl and MI and put a stop to dialog. I guess winning is more important to them then democracy, then truly letting the people decide who would make the better President.
Obama is the archetypal egotistical male politician.

Posted by: Anne-Marie | April 27, 2008, 7:27 am 7:27 am

If what was done to him, had been done to her at the last debate – She would conclude honor, integrity has gone out of this race and it has become a pig fight. This man is so classy in comparison to the Clintons who I use to admire. John MClain for President who was wise enough to do a limited number of votes with loser opponents.

Posted by: Sarah | April 27, 2008, 7:29 am 7:29 am

Sarah, the Clintons didn’t do anything to the poor baby. It was the moderators who asked the questions. And it was Obama who brought the question upon himself due to his past associations, and statements.
Stop blaming the Clintons, and let Obama stand up for himself like a man.

Posted by: Anne-Marie | April 27, 2008, 7:31 am 7:31 am

I personally would love to watch this. I haven’t decided between the two and would like to see how they both respond to a more impromtu situation versus a staged atmosphere where they know what’s going to be asked…. kind of like when you’re president and situation come at you out of the blue.

Posted by: John | April 27, 2008, 7:31 am 7:31 am

Hillary just wants some free air time to bash Obama. She won’t get it. It is time to move on and focus on McCain. Hillary is quickly becoming more and more insignficant.

Posted by: Bob, DC | April 27, 2008, 7:34 am 7:34 am

A REAL man receives any challenge.

Posted by: DCT | April 27, 2008, 7:38 am 7:38 am

I can’t believe a potential president like Obama is afraid of debates!! I made a mistake of voting for him, but NEVER AGAIN!

Posted by: Michael Div | April 27, 2008, 7:38 am 7:38 am

Debates have become a sham. Totally abused the last one. I’ve lost my respect for the democrats. With economy down, the war in Iraq, I’ll vote for McClain to block the return of the Clintons Part II to scandalize the White House.

Posted by: steve | April 27, 2008, 7:39 am 7:39 am

So what if there have been 21 so called debates so far. The ones held in 2007 shouldn’t even be counted because it was too early and people weren’t even really paying attention yet. I say so called debates because the ones sponsored and moderated by news anchors have been very poor and have not focused much on the real issues. They instead focus on sensational, divisive and personal attack type drama. I say the more “real” debates the better.

Posted by: bryan | April 27, 2008, 7:44 am 7:44 am

Hillary wants debates (plural) now after refusing any initially; she wants to have Michigan and Florida counted after she (AND her staff) originally disregarded both. The delegates don’t count; the popular vote doesn’t count. NOTHING COUNTS FOR THE CLINTON CAMP EXCEPT WHAT SUITS THEM AT ANY PARTICULAR MOMENT. They are completely classless and unethical.
Adrian Millet

Posted by: Adrian Millet | April 27, 2008, 7:49 am 7:49 am

There is no need for any more debates between Clinton and Obama. This is just her trying to discract everyone from her weaknesses. She and Obama have already debated more than 30 times – more than any other political candidates in history. They aren’t very far apart on any issue; they are, after all Democrats. Clinton knows that Obama is a fantastic speaker, but he comes off a bit wooden in debates. She know how much this hurt Al Gore in 2000 and she’s hoping to capitalize on this phenomenon. She may be making a tragic mistake, however. A Lincoln-Douglas style debate is more in keeping with Obama’s style and he could make her look like a fool. Clinton has already lost this election. There’s only one state with a large block of delegates left – North Carolina – and Obama will win it handily. It is not in Obama’s best political interest to debate Clinton again. John McCain knows that Obama will be his opponent (the Republicans do oppostion polling) and he is now ignoring Clinton. Obama needs to ignore Clinton and focus on McCain.

Posted by: Will | April 27, 2008, 7:50 am 7:50 am

In politics, the LOSER always wants to debate. Guess who the LOSER is?
Hillary knows she needs to appeal to the weak minded, easily led, lemmings of this country. She has lost the campaign, she can’t manage her surrogates, her contributors, her delegates are defecting, and she’s broke
(well except for her own millions, but she’d rather spend your money)…and people think she’ll be a good leader? AMERICA NEEDS A LEADER, NOT ANOTHER FIGHTER.

Posted by: dave in va | April 27, 2008, 7:52 am 7:52 am

Obama is afraid of Clinton. He knows she can outthink him and he has to get his answers from Rev Jesse, Rev Al, Rev Wright, Ted Kenndey and John Kerry. I hope people wake up and defeat him. He would be a laughing stock as president. McCain will beat him bad if he is the nominee. He has too many criminals and anti americans as friends. I will vote for McCain.

Posted by: barefootboy9 | April 27, 2008, 7:55 am 7:55 am

If he’s not man enough to take this challenge, how can he expect to be the President of the most important country in the world? What an egotistical baby!

Posted by: Tony | April 27, 2008, 8:04 am 8:04 am

So? He’s debated Ms. Clinton 21 times. Why wouldn’t 22 make any difference? After all, there are people who didn’t see those other debates because they were televised on the state’s LOCAL stations.
Fact is, he doesn’t want to debate Ms. Clinton because he minces words. Without a script, he comes off like an idiot worse than Bushy. Off the cuff, he continually insults someone, lies thru his teeth and gets caught. Even with a speech writer, his message has NO MEAT. With a speech writer, his message is kryptic at best.
He knows that if he debates Hillary, he will lose even more momentum that he’s already lost to date.
that.. compounded with the fact that he cannot deliver the big states is problematic for Obamamites. And I tell you… even though Howard Dean wants to disenfrancise the voters from Michigan and Florida, the superdelegates cannot ignore their voices. Even when they are absent from the convention assembly floor, their votes are paramount to the DNC. If any one of these states goes red in November, the Dems can kiss the feet of their new President McCain. And… I still contend that if I had my way, Howard Dean would be out for letting this quagmire happen. He misinterprets Americans.
Howard Dean waits for the people to tell him what to do while the people wait for him to lead the party. It’s a wonder Vermont survived him as governor. Everything he touches turns to sour mash.
Lastly, what is so wrong with the idea of “Clinton-Obama ’08″ ??? What better way to unite the party and probably guarantee a Democratic victory? THAT would be something the Republicans would fear. And what is more important??? Sometimes, people have to swallow their pride, let go of selfishness and think of doing what is best for the country … instead of what is best for themself. The views and opinions of Ms. Clinton and Mr. Obama are not that different that they can’t share the ticket…. Interesting thought……

Posted by: MM | April 27, 2008, 8:22 am 8:22 am

I think we’ve had more than enough debates – they’ve become a circus performance and the last one was more about padding ABC’s tabloid stories than it was providing information for the public.
I’m not interested in another forum without moderators, where we’ll basically just see Hillary Clinton run on and on and on again – it isn’t like the public doesn’t know anything about her – she was, after all, the frontrunner until she ran a lousy campaign.
Just because the GOP is trying to revive it, along with Fox and ABC and Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh doesn’t mean the American people need to be subjected to any more sideshows.

Posted by: kevinbgoode | April 27, 2008, 8:22 am 8:22 am

I myself believe Obama will be the nominee for the democrats, but also believe the Republicans will make minced meat out of him. He has lost respect the last few weeks and will never overcome. If all the things about him had come out at the beginning, he would already be out of the race. John Edwards was really the best candidate.
Common sense tells me that people are fed us with Obama and will pust the lever for McCain when they get to the polls. Rather have 4 more years of the republicans than gamble with Obama. Also since the democrats have taken congress over, things have gotten worse. I think McCain will be a better president than Bush has been. Age is maturity and common sense.

Posted by: barefootboy9 | April 27, 2008, 8:30 am 8:30 am

Don’t worry everyone when new polls come out on monday and he is behind in Indiana and the N.C. polls close up, he will debate but only on MSNBC with Matthews(his man servant) and Olberman( his cheerleader) hosting the night. He has niether the courage nor the political skill to debate Hillary one on one. I just hope he can give a speech everytime he meets a world leader or we are in big trouble.

Posted by: Jim | April 27, 2008, 8:30 am 8:30 am

Gee, what a bunch of phonies! If obama supporters had any real confidence in their guy they wouuld be saying “Take her on, show her who da man is!”
Instead they say ‘No, no!!!!!! don’t debate her!”"”
I can’t blame you since each and every time there has been a debate she has wiped the floor with him. Poor guy, his managers know better than to let him speak any more without a teleprompter.
His slogan should really be;
“Wahhh! No I can’t!”

Posted by: Patty- Chicago | April 27, 2008, 8:33 am 8:33 am

Sounds easy but it is not about the issues. Debates are to get airtime and try to nit-pick each other to death.
The main reason Hillary wants to debate is to show off. Even if she loses she will declare herself the winner anyways. She has a big ego and so does Bill. Obama is not as experienced in politics but there is no way to say that experience and being hated will beat less experience and being liked by many powerful and experienced senators. No matter how much experience you have, if people do not like you, you will be ineffective. The Clintons have more shady and criminal connections than any other politicians. Anyone who has done any reading knows they got baggage. Just start with the BJ in the oval office.
What constitutes anti-American? There are so many people who do things or say things (white or black people)that really sound anti-American. Hillary said Ghandi was pumping her gas at a gas station. Isn’t that anti-American? Plus, I am sure you will hear bad things from the many shady people the Clintons know, if not from them as well.
Hillary needs 70% of each states remaining votes. It would be a miracle if that happened. I see many white people that like Obama. Those of you who think otherwise are biased or blind. Mnay of the Clintons long time friends are voting for Obama. I liked it when the Kennedy family backed him, what a great slap in the face.
McCain : All I have to say is Ha Ha Ha. A millionaire who wants to spend everyone elses money just like Hillary. And he wants to stay in Iraq and build up the miliray like a Roman general. By the time he is done everyone in the US will use our money for toilet paper or trade it for pesos and move to Mexico. Defense contractors love him. ALso he wants to do all these tax reforms. WHo will they benefit? Deductions are the only way you can get a good refund. He wants to do some EZ tax return that seems shady until I see it in person. He is promising things but where are the drafts. He can’t even read cue cards all that good and he is very old. If I call him at 3 am he will be asleep.

Posted by: Simon | April 27, 2008, 8:36 am 8:36 am

EXACTLY Jim.
Obama doesn’t “think on his feet”. His new campaign slogan should be “I’ll have to get back to you on that one” so he can consult his speech writers. That said, Obama is a puppet to his speech writers. They will be the true leaders of this country.

Posted by: MM | April 27, 2008, 8:40 am 8:40 am

Obama can’t debate, he only speachifies.
No wonder he doesn’t want people to
hear his try and speak on his feet!

Posted by: Tonga | April 27, 2008, 8:42 am 8:42 am

Is this the same Hillary Clinton who is using “Sports Metaphors” to hit a home run for the Clintons, to klingon to the White House for another eight years? Move over Hillary, it is time for another American to bat for this country!You will be remembered for your achievements and contributions to America – Total contempt and disrespect for the Oval Office, with respect to Mentoring and Coaching our young Interns ( Right Wing Conspiracy!) – Impeached liar – profiteering at public services to America, to a tune of over $107,000,000.00. When are your supporters going to see through your “wicked” smiles? Give it up for the Democrats and for America!

Posted by: Lake Hart - A Native American Writer | April 27, 2008, 8:49 am 8:49 am

Exactly “A”….HRC supporters are going to show the rest of us and the republicans for voting for McCain if Obama gets the nod…boy are they smart, 4 more years of a crappy economy, a war that won’t end, and who knows, maybe even WWIII thrown in there for good measure! You go HRC supporters, show us all up by not being loyal to your party.

Posted by: JJ | April 27, 2008, 8:55 am 8:55 am

Please, for the sake of the country, no more debates. Americans’ faith in the primary and general election process has, I think, faded tremendously during this election cycle. For quite some time, there has been no discussion of real issues — not on the campaign trail and not during these numerous, but hopelessly vacuous, debates. All of the candidates should be ashamed of their conduct during this entire electoral process. The primary season is supposed to be the chance for each party to put its best face forward, a chance for every candidate within the party to discuss his or her own strengths and professionally discuss the weaknesses of the other candidates. Americans are unbelievably tired of the conduct of Presidential elections, and this particular primary season has been the worst, by far, in most people’s memory. Clinton, Obama, McCain, Romney, and a host of wannabes have all decided to some extent that personal attacks were more important than professional and dignified enunciations of their own positions. Discussion and rehashing ad nauseum of tabloid and/or fringe issues has transformed this important campaign into a cavalcade of crap. Once and for all, the candidates need to “repudiate and denounce” these unprofessional attacks. There are actual issues to discuss: Iraq, Afghanistan, NAFTA, social security, welfare, the economy, etc., etc. Could we please stop hearing about who is tangentially associated with whom, who is the most unlikable, who doesn’t want to have this state re-voted or no? Could the campaigns please stop having their surrogates, whether they be spouses or high-placed party operatives, speaking on behalf of the candidates and then retracting balloons that aren’t received well? Could we please, at long last, discuss issues that matter to all Americans, instead of discussing moronic issues that aren’t going to matter a bit after the election is over? Come on, now — this is a Presidential election, not the Jerry Springer show. Can’t one of the candidates remember that?

Posted by: J. T. Bigglesworth | April 27, 2008, 8:55 am 8:55 am

JJ
The democratic party will no longer exist as such should Obama win the nomination. Why would any stay ‘loyal’ to an organization that has abandoned its members and it’s own principles?

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 9:00 am 9:00 am

None of the candidates of either party are squeaky clean and all of them are very wealthy compared to average person. But, Mr. Obama needs to “man up” and take on Ms. Clinton in debates since the race is tight. Voters need to see such a debate to finally decide. It will be a case of voting for the lessor evil. Man Up, Mr. Obama!

Posted by: Longtree | April 27, 2008, 9:04 am 9:04 am

Well “S”, the DNC set the rules for the primaries, not the canditates. Now that it isn’t in HRC’s favor about FL and MI, she’s going to ride that dead horse as long as she can and spin it her way. As far as being loyal, why bother to have any political party if you’re not going to stand with it. There is only going to be 1 democrat running for President in Novemember, so all the HRC supporters will cut off their noses to spite their face if she isn’t it and subject this country to who knows what under McCain. Sorry, but as an almost 50′ish white male, veteran who has shed blood for his country, that is the stupidest argument made by HRC supporters I’ve ever heard. Lets just flush our country down the toilet just because our person didn’t win. I’m sure JFK, Ronald Reagan, and all the other great past presidents are spinning in their graves right about now.

Posted by: JJ | April 27, 2008, 9:06 am 9:06 am

You know what Patty this is true and the law offices are just waiting for her to win this mess and she will be run out of town on a rail.Why do you think all the rep are changing parties and then going back to Rep they want her on this ticket ,I got mine from a source who is tied to the law. so the last laught lady is on you……

Posted by: honest | April 27, 2008, 9:13 am 9:13 am

It seems that Hillary’s uninformed supporters are unable to hear through the din of the press which is not interested in stressing the important issues. For your information, Barack Oabama originally proposed a debate in North Carolina which was turned down by Hillary Clinton. Mrs. Clinton is now trailing in the number of pledged delegates which she would have us believe are not the deciding factors in determining who will be the Democratic nominee. In addition, Hillary is in dire straits financially and she would like to enjoy a free ride at Mr. Obama’s expense.

Posted by: M. Powell | April 27, 2008, 9:20 am 9:20 am

Jim….I don’t care if he does or not….it doesn’t matter. She can’t not win the primary according to my Math. Math was always my favorite subject in school…but Jim, maybe you can explain to me how she actually has a chance to win….especially after she gets crushed in NC

Posted by: Euro | April 27, 2008, 9:20 am 9:20 am

karen
So why is Obama running from a debate?

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 9:20 am 9:20 am

Honest……to goodness!
Run! Don’t walk! Alert the media!
The world needs to be told!
Hurry!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Patty- Chicago | April 27, 2008, 9:21 am 9:21 am

Without a teleprompter in front of him, Obama can’t string two coherent sentences together without stumbling. And he knows it! He is way too much of a wimp to stand up to Hillary one on one. And that is exactly the reason I will never vote for him. You can rant and rave about “change” and “hope” all you want, but actions speak much louder than words and this guy hasn’t done anything but talk.

Posted by: Jim | April 27, 2008, 9:21 am 9:21 am

barefootboy9
Good point!
Maybe that’s why some people (workers) get richer and some people (favoring entitlement) get poorer. Any system will ultimately reward its contributors.

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 9:30 am 9:30 am

Dear Maggie,
No…and no means no.
Your candidate, the lying Hillary Clinton, has already lost this race.
You are broke and desperately in need of the free airtime that another debate (23?) would give you.
You and your candidate were offered an additional debate and you declined.
The next debate that Senator Obama will have is with John McCain.
Got it?
Don’t ask again, the answer is no.

Posted by: CYNICAL_ME | April 27, 2008, 9:32 am 9:32 am

S – The information is out there; however, the major US media networks refuse to report real news…..it wants to keep the public focus on non-sense like what OBama Pastor said in a church or what Paris Hilton is doing tonight or that Tony Romo is dating Jessica Simpson….all of this to keep the American people uninformed. This is the kind of non-sense Obama speaks against…he is young and new and hasn’t been tainted by capital hill yet….doesn’t anyone realize this….this is why I love this guy. He is real and says what he means…no spin

Posted by: Euro | April 27, 2008, 9:40 am 9:40 am

Euro…Politics is rarely about math, it is about perception, if the party has the perception that he will not win in november they will be find a way not to nominate him how ever ugly it is. They want the power of the Precidency. I know she will probably lose NC, but how she loses it is just as important.I was not slighting your knowledge about about world economics and the history of the dollar. You obviously know your stuff, but this was supposed to be a discussion about the debate, thats all.

Posted by: Jim | April 27, 2008, 9:41 am 9:41 am

Hillary’s desparate begging to have a debate is obviously a result of her needing free publicity. Obama does not owe her any favors out of pity.

Posted by: Sue | April 27, 2008, 9:42 am 9:42 am

Hillary is so gracious in offering Obama the golden opportunity to define himself to the American people. For some without experience and a record of accomplishment, he should seize this moment to present himself to the American people. His negatives are overwhelming to the point of suffocating him so debating and defining himself is crucial. He must convince Americans that there is nothing to fear from his dissing Small-Town America, the hatred rantings of his pastor, his questionable associations, one of whom is currently on trial. So, debates offer him the opportunity to re-define. What we keep getting is empty rhetoric on the campaign trail and this is not working.

Posted by: benvictor | April 27, 2008, 9:45 am 9:45 am

Jim – You are correct with your post; however, if the Super delegates decides to give the election to Hiliary after Obama has the most delegates and the popular vote then its highway robbery. And there will be an uproar within the party…Hiliary will surely lose in November….Republicans know this which is why they all support her. Republicans don’t like McCain but Hiliary is the one person who will unite the Republican Party. And she can not win independents like myself….I would never vote for her….I would rather see McCain (George Bush III) in office before her and there are many, many people who share the same feelings.

Posted by: Euro | April 27, 2008, 9:47 am 9:47 am

Another example of her “I’m the nominee or the party be damned” attitude. She cannot win. She simply cannot win. She will never be able to pass Obama in elected delegates which means she must rely on a few hundred Democratic party insiders to overrule the will of the people. I truly don’t think they will do it but the mere thought that people are asking them to betray Democracy is sickening. We do not live in an oligarchy! A move like this will be the end of the Democratic party. It would be far worse than Florida in 2000 because it will be our own leaders deciding that they know better than the tens of millions of people they represent.

Posted by: TSnow27604 | April 27, 2008, 9:54 am 9:54 am

Euro…There any many Hillary supporters that will not vote for Obama in the end. There are many republicans that will come out to vote against Obama and its growing. That is why I think he will have trouble in Denver also. I have a feeling this going to be a train wreck no matter what, and Mcain may just get the JOB!

Posted by: Jim | April 27, 2008, 9:55 am 9:55 am

Poor Barack, besides “together we can make a change”, he really has nothingelse to say.

Posted by: E | April 27, 2008, 9:55 am 9:55 am

We don’t need another debate with stupid questions, personal attacks and innuendos – it is the ISSUES and SOLUTIONS that need to be debated – why can’t Clinton and the media get behind that! I don’t blame Obama – why prepare for a debate when all they want is another “trash Obama night”! She is like the energizer bunny – she just keeps running..and running…and running..and running..and running..and running…….

Posted by: white mountain | April 27, 2008, 10:02 am 10:02 am

Jim – I understand but I believe that it is time to give the new generation a chance. McCain and Clinton’s generation time has come and gone. If people don’t vote for Obama because they disagree with his policy and feel McCain or Clinton gives their family a better chance to riches…then I have no issue. However I do have an issue with people debating petty issues like what a ignorant Pastor said. All I say is don’t punish a guy for something he heard in church..this is america and because he said people turn to religion and guns when economic times are bad.
Or questioning his commitment to america cause he doesn’t wear a flag lapel….all of this is trivia…..and the process just drives me nuts that people care about this crap….the dollar is weaker then its been in a very long time….people are losing jobs…all the poor and middle class in the world is suffering and we are here arguing about flag lapels and Rev Wright words. Our troops are dying in Iraq daily..no one even mention their sacifice. It makes me sick to my stomach

Posted by: Euro | April 27, 2008, 10:04 am 10:04 am

Obama is a version of Bush in a debate: “Um, ah, um, ah.” He can’t speak in complete sentences when not scripted. There is no way he will agree to another debate. Quite frankly, I don’t want to listen to another president for 4/8 years who can’t speak unscripted…please!

Posted by: katherine | April 27, 2008, 10:05 am 10:05 am

THANKFULLY OBAMA BITES HIS TONGUE AND SSPEAKS HONESTLY AND WITH RESPECT FOR ALL.
HE HAS NEVER LIED CONTINUOUSLY AS HAD HILLARY…. THE HEROINE OF BOSNIA SNIPERS, IRELAND, RWANDA, NAFTA, WATERGATE AND ASSORTED OTHERV LIES.
YES, SHE SPEAKS FROM THE LIES IN HER HEART.

Posted by: CAROLYN | April 27, 2008, 10:11 am 10:11 am

Let’s really be a democratic society and let the people’s individual vote count. Skip the delegates and super delegates!
As for debating, why not? Who says it has to be televised?

Posted by: Sue | April 27, 2008, 10:14 am 10:14 am

Sen Obama will only agree to a debate if the moderator is a member of his MEDIA ARMY:Olbermann, Mathews, Cooper, C Brown, Borges etc.
It takes a lot of courage to debate in an unfriendly territory and I don’t think he has it.

Posted by: politicsIsdirty | April 27, 2008, 10:17 am 10:17 am

aliasinkhorn – Words spoken from a very intelligent man….I am man enough to say I was wrong to challenge your intelligence…..I just get caught up sometimes…but I never had anyone relay a message to me in that light. You are right I don’t know where you have been or experienced….but it is my personal opinion that Bush knows more then the public. He always says history will judge me as one of the greatest leaders when questioned about his disapproval ratings. And when you step back and look at what is happening with oil and the currency…you see that it is really a war to maintain American power. In no way do I disagree with this choice because I am american; however, I disagree with the methods.

Posted by: Euro | April 27, 2008, 10:18 am 10:18 am

Sen Obama takes the high road in the campaign+++++
Meanwhile, his surrogates and media army take the low road.+++++
Right out of Republican playbook.+++++
Let your surrogates and your media army do the attack for you so your favorabilty rating remains high.

Posted by: politicsIsdirty | April 27, 2008, 10:21 am 10:21 am

To debate the Clinton’s on anything is to go “round and round” in a vortex of lies,personal attacks and dirty tricks.
HRC will continue to “run” until she finds a way to take Obama out – she will use Florida-Michigan and super delegates all to her advantage. She doesn’t care about America or honest elections – she cares only about winning and she will lie, cheat and steal to get her way! How about her comment to annihilate Iran? What the sam hill kind of plan is that?

Posted by: white mountain | April 27, 2008, 10:26 am 10:26 am

White mountain – If you scan through my post you will see why Iran is on the radar. If McCain or Clinton gets elected, Iran will be in trouble. Obama will not throw rhetoric at Iran; however, once he is out of office Iran will be back on the radar

Posted by: Euro | April 27, 2008, 10:31 am 10:31 am

the main thing wrong with America
is Obama…

Posted by: francesca | April 27, 2008, 10:35 am 10:35 am

Obama doesn’t need to waste any more time with Hillary. She is done, she is toast. This new debate scheme is just another desparate attempt by her campaign to somehow drag out this campaign even further. Her only intent is to try and destroy Obama’s chances in the general election thereby setting Hillary up for another shot in 2012. Obama has this thing wrapped up and he should ignore Hillary and start focusing on McBush.

Posted by: PhilBgood | April 27, 2008, 10:37 am 10:37 am

Obama doesn’t need to waste any more time with Hillary. She is done, she is toast. This new debate scheme is just another desparate attempt by her campaign to somehow drag out this campaign even further. Her only intent is to try and destroy Obama’s chances in the general election thereby setting Hillary up for another shot in 2012. Obama has this thing wrapped up and he should ignore Hillary and start focusing on McBush.

Posted by: PhilBgood | April 27, 2008, 10:37 am 10:37 am

Mr. Obama aint no president!!

Posted by: ebony | April 27, 2008, 10:39 am 10:39 am

Debates give a small opening into what the candidate is thinking or responds to situations.
From past performance, Obama is all rhetoric, can’t seem to think on his feet, he needs props and the good ole teleprompter to help him out.
He is scared out of his wits and will run away as fast as he can from any debate.
BTW: Only 4 (of the 21 debates) count if at all. Even I could have been in the other 17 where everyone and his uncle were there. The 4 one-to-one Clinton-Obama were the closest to a ‘debate’. Even then the first 3 of those, the TV media were falling all over themselves to prop up Sen. Obama.
Sen. Obama can even have a pillow if he agrees to a debate which the people of rightly Indiana deserve. But even that is doubtful – Obama does not care much for the voters of Indiana (just like Florida/Michigan).

Posted by: Texas-Politico | April 27, 2008, 10:41 am 10:41 am

Real leaders answer all questions
no matter how silly or stupid
they think they are!
Every good educator knows that…

Posted by: julie | April 27, 2008, 10:42 am 10:42 am

Debates give a small opening into what the candidate is thinking or responds to situations.
From past performance, Obama is all rhetoric, can’t seem to think on his feet, he needs props and the good ole teleprompter to help him out.
He is scared out of his wits and will run away as fast as he can from any debate.
BTW: Only 4 (of the 21 debates) count if at all. Even I could have been in the other 17 where everyone and his uncle were there. The 4 one-to-one Clinton-Obama were the closest to a ‘debate’. Even then the first 3 of those, the TV media were falling all over themselves to prop up Sen. Obama.
Sen. Obama can even have a pillow if he agrees to a debate which the people of rightly Indiana deserve. But even that is doubtful – Obama does not care much for the voters of Indiana (just like Florida/Michigan).

Posted by: paula | April 27, 2008, 10:44 am 10:44 am

Sen. Obama can even have a pillow if he agrees to a debate which the people of rightly Indiana deserve. But even that is doubtful – Obama does not care much for the voters of Indiana (just like Florida/Michigan).
****************************************
If Obama is the nominee, Florida, Michigan, Indiana will join Texas, OK, MO. MS, AL, LA, AR, TN, GA, NC, SC, VA, KY,W VA Ohio and many more states for McCain. You people just don’t get it, Obama is toast.

Posted by: barefootboy9 | April 27, 2008, 10:47 am 10:47 am

There is an article in the Baltimore Sun that says Hillary may pull this out yet. Very interesting article and tells why people are turning against Obama.

Posted by: barefootboy9 | April 27, 2008, 10:54 am 10:54 am

THE QUESTION NO CLINTON SUPPORTER IS CAPABLE OR WILLING TO ANSWER…WHY DID HILLARY-THE-LIAR TURN DOWN THE NORTH CAROLINA DEBATE THAT OBAMA HAD AGREED TO?
DON’T BE FOOLED BY THE SPIN, AMERICA.
THEY CANNOT AND WILL NOT ANSWER THIS QUESTION.

Posted by: CYNICAL_ME | April 27, 2008, 10:55 am 10:55 am

This war is about Bush’s stupidity – it wasn’t about money or oil until it was financed by Communist China – it is the war “debt” that has plunged the dollar to an all time low aginst the euro – which increases oil prices . This is just going to get worse. How can we continue in Iraq? Why should we continue in Iraq? There is no winning this war! There is however a great concern about destroying a great nation! We must get our $$$ reinvested in America – not Iraq!
I am aware of Lincoln/Douglas debates – HRC will only use it as bait for another televised Obama bashing – she only sticks to her plan – to discredit Obama – she doesn’t care about anything else. This county honestly cannot afford national healtcare with the war debt looming – we will be lucky to salvage Medicare – get a grip on reality! If the media will only cover “non issues” how can we decide? We need to talk reality and numbers – not flag pins and religion!

Posted by: white mountain | April 27, 2008, 10:56 am 10:56 am

You can accuse people of whatever, spin all
day,
but the bottom line is Barack Obama
is not presidential material.

Posted by: sally | April 27, 2008, 10:58 am 10:58 am

I think we Clinton people, if Obama is the nominee, should all vote for McCain. He will be better than Bush and at least he is a lover of America, a hero, a man that has served our military, and will try to do the right thing. Then maybe the democrat party will come up with a decent candidate in four years. We would be better to be under McCain for four years than Obama. Let all join together on this.

Posted by: barefootboy9 | April 27, 2008, 11:05 am 11:05 am

We would be better to be under McCain for four years than Obama. Let all join together on this.
Posted by: barefootboy9 | Apr 27, 2008 11:05:11 AM
=======================================
AMEN.

Posted by: dem | April 27, 2008, 11:08 am 11:08 am

The next president, like all presidents, will be defined by some unforeseen event. How that president reacts depends on his beliefs and personal motives.
Who would respond best to an unforeseen catastrophe?

Posted by: Surelock Homes | April 27, 2008, 11:16 am 11:16 am

Losers always never stop complaining about this and that…..They will come up with all sort of ideas to divert the real problems facing Americans now…So my dear losers from Hillary camp..just switch side and we will keep quite…no one will know about it….its show time now get to face the reality…math is on Obama side….popular votes is on Obama side,Deleget is on Obama side…North Carolina is on Obama side,money is on Obama side…Losers what else you want….stay away with your old white house politics,we are in another generation… beware the waves of change are coming…get ready to be surfed by Obama otherwise you will be left behind…Losers will look all means..like debate to divert people attention from reality….We can not eat the same food..Bush1,Clinton,Clinton,Bush2..We need change of diet otherwise you get fedup of same food in white house…we need fresh and young minds there now…tired of same song…this is not a mornacy country…but a democratic country…so Losers…is show time now for Obama 08…get lost…

Posted by: kibs | April 27, 2008, 11:17 am 11:17 am

If HRC is so great and has so much support, then why is she behind? Those of you who will vote for McCain if she does not win the primary only reinforce the fact that she was a Goldwater republican to start with! What this county needs is an Independent party – I have always been a registered Independent trying to decide on the lesser of 2 evils – that isn’t a vote of confidence – it is just a vote! If DNC can’t run an election process they should all resign! The whole thing is wearing thin!

Posted by: white mountain | April 27, 2008, 11:18 am 11:18 am

Hillary would never stop talking.
In the 21 previous debates, the moderators have had to cut her off.

Posted by: Juanita | April 27, 2008, 11:18 am 11:18 am

How can an empty suit participate in an open debate?

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 11:21 am 11:21 am

Hrc is behind because people supported Obama before enough was known about him. People will not make that mistake in the general election.
He is known better now and we don’t like what we see. Do you think that ALL those people who voted for him in the earlier contests are happy now and will vote for him in the general?
A lot of people feel betrayed by the “Great Pretender.”

Posted by: Patty- Chicago | April 27, 2008, 11:26 am 11:26 am

I remind all Americans that Obama cannot stand up to the heat of a debate. His voice is only heard when he is the only person on the stage…put him in the company of others and he stammers and stutters and does not sound very informed of issues.

Posted by: dixiecharms | April 27, 2008, 12:07 pm 12:07 pm

Obama is polling to win North Carolina at least 2-1 over Clinton, and there’s a dead heat in Indiana. And the by way, North Carolina provides almost 2x the delegates that Indiana does, so NC is the more important state in the contest. All this talk about Indiana is a distraction.
Clinton’s chances are over and it’s never been clearer. She’s so desperate now that she wants a *22nd* debate, as if the first 21 debates didn’t exhaust all the issues. It is a shame she selfishly stays in the race. Hopefully after next Tuesday she’ll see the light and drop out so that the party can unite behind Obama for November.

Posted by: Eric | April 27, 2008, 12:27 pm 12:27 pm

The fact is Mrs.Clintons money is low she needs the free advertisment, debate about what, how much diffrent are they policy wise, not much, so whats the debate going to be about, most likely personal attacks, i cant sit through 90 mins of why did you sit in the church that long or why do you people cling to their guns blah blah blah, bottom line if you havent decided on who you are going to vote on by now you should most likely turn in your voters card, this is turning into black vs white ,man vs woman, i get it already the media loves it because it boost their ratings and the talking heads can expound how right they are, but guess what while our troops dying, gas is sky high,and a gallon of milk is almost 5 bucks…if your worried about whether or not obama should have gotten up from the church or if hillary lied about sniper fire..you must be either extremely wealthy or extremley dumb

Posted by: rob | April 27, 2008, 1:04 pm 1:04 pm

“Why in the world would Obama do Clinton any favors at this point?”
He wouldn’t be doing Hillary any favors…he would be doing himself a favor by showing voters that he can definitely hold up to a debate on issues against Hillary Clinton which, so far, he’s failed to win ME over. And, his latest view against the gas tax relief is the latest of his views that I totally disagree with.

Posted by: Deb in RI | April 27, 2008, 1:28 pm 1:28 pm

jbate, people, excuse me idiots like you amaze me.
Why would a HRC supporter like me, a life-long democrat, ever want to vote for your candidate. You throw up lies and critiques far worse than any republican could ever get away with.
You need HRC supporters to win in November. Obamamites like you are giving away the election to McCain.
Pat yourself on the back for 4 more years!

Posted by: CK Canon | April 27, 2008, 1:34 pm 1:34 pm

let the word be trumpeted from every mountaintop: obama is a noob

Posted by: hosater | April 27, 2008, 1:40 pm 1:40 pm

Why do we need another debate? I’m tired of the non-issue debates. And this debate would be more of the same. Because they are both pretty much identical on all of the issues. Therefore, we would be wasting another hour of our lives watching them go back and forth attacking each others character. I’m sorry, I have more important things to do with my time.

Posted by: gw | April 27, 2008, 1:41 pm 1:41 pm

and i can’t believe ppl thinking that NC is more important than indiana. you really think blacks, just under half out NC democrats, are thinking straight when they’re voting 90% for obama. that’s what the real “race card” is.
and its not like democrats need obama to win 90% of blacks… lol

Posted by: hosater | April 27, 2008, 1:43 pm 1:43 pm

Because Barack was Wise enough and is wise enough to point out how unfair and uneven the questions were directed at him at the last debate, they label him a “whiner” instead of someone who, and rightly so, is defending himself from a “hit job”. But, if he does this, this might expose the ones who are directing the barbs and hits and their Purpose, so they distort the truth (he’s whining) with a multitude of voices, all saying the same thing to give it power (brainwashing)! The questions that would be asked of Barack as President are not the same kind of personal attacks he would get at another debate, he is wise to decline!
Most of the corporate media: cable news, ABC, NBC :are owned and Republican controled. They tell us what they want us to Hear, not what we need to Know to truly inform us as a society, which would “expose{ their deeds, give us power and aid in their demise!
The Clintons and the Republican Spin Machine all aligned against Barack! Both are fabricators, distorters, engage in fear and smear… there is no truth from either of the Giants only domination for their own selfish gain and not for the good of “all” the people… they have even colloborated together for greater strength, then one will overthrow the other if they get what they want! They, the Republicans, know the Clintons have ailenated African-Americans so they are now actively courting their support while trying to elevate Hillary and deflate Barack. They MSM are not asking Hillary any of the pertinent questions, not on Iran, not on Mark Penn, although he is still on conference calls to this day, not on a pending lawsuit in California or anything elese that might damage her candidacy in the eyes of the people. They don’t ask why, if Rev. Wright would have not been her pastor, why during Bill’s Impeachment trial, they turned to Rev. Wright for prayer and strength? The Republicans have an “arsenal” of ammunition they Plan and have Planned for years to use against the Clintons if Hillary somehow becomes the Democratic nominee!
They belittle Barack’s achievement in Pennsylvania — to close the enormous gap between him and Clintons was a monumental success and not given any credit by the Republican talking-points media. Instead they ask, “do we really know who Barack is?” — They slyly ask, “why can’t he close the deal?” This after showing him bowling over and over again and stating how he cannot relate to blue-collar workers with such a low bowling score or showing skits from Saturday Night Light which casts him a poor light, along with continuing whipping of Rev. Wrght and his comments on bitter. They do not report the news anymore, they do not inform us of the true conditions in Iraq or other pertinent news but rather pass on Gossip, fit for the Enquirer Magazine or Entertainment Tonight, so far we have fallen!

Posted by: Angellight | April 27, 2008, 1:48 pm 1:48 pm

jbate- It is so funny how all of the Obama supporters want to ignore the fact that Obama will be unable to bring in the BIG NUMBERS needed for us to win in the GE against McCain!! Why is everyone solely focused on the primary rules and the antiquated caucus voting rules which DOESN’T GIVE ANYONE A REAL COUNT OF THE DEMOCRATIC VOTES THAT ARE OUT THERE!! All of the polling in the world amounts to nothing in the end when the voters will have their say in November. OBAMA NEEDS TO PROVE HE CAN DEBATE!! THIS ISN’T ABOUT HRC – IT’S ABOUT OBAMA AND ALL OF HIS UNANSWERED CHARACTER QUESTIONS AND POOR DEBATING SKILLS. Obama needs to show the American voter that he has what it takes to be POTUS. YOU BETTER BELIEVE THAT IF HE DUCKS THIS DEBATE HE IS THE LOSER – EVEN IF HE WINS THE NOMINATION!! OBAMA HAS TO PROVE HE HAS WHAT IT TAKES OR WE WILL HAVE 4 MORE YEARS OF REPUBLICAN BS IN THE WHITE HOUSE!!

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 27, 2008, 1:54 pm 1:54 pm

Obama has always done well with speeches that other stole for him for him. How can you teach an empty suite to debate?
I watched the CNN debate, Clinton was asked first, she answered then Obama modified the her answer to make his.
The idea of talking to our enermies without precondition is simply stupid.

Posted by: Ga | April 27, 2008, 2:10 pm 2:10 pm

Obama should tell Michelle if she experiences any pride in her country she should call the media.

Posted by: Mel | April 27, 2008, 2:14 pm 2:14 pm

A Lincoln-Douglas debate forum would definitely be Obama’s undoing. He would stutter and stammer his way through the whole thing, looking unprepared for the highest office in the land. On the other hand, Hillary would excel. She would be steady and sure of herself and could definitely hold her own, thereby looking VERY PRESIDENTIAL. Of course, Obama will turn down any such debate because he just cannot do it. He lacks the skill. Is that who you want to lead this country?

Posted by: Donna | April 27, 2008, 2:36 pm 2:36 pm

Why does everyone think that Obama doesn’t HAVE to prove that he has what it takes to debate?? What is unfair about asking our future POTUS to show the American voters that he has what it takes? There are plenty of undecided voters out there that Obama could win over by answering the tough character questions and proving that he has what it takes to win it for us in the GE. LET THE AMERICAN VOTERS ASK THE QUESTIONS TO BOTH CANDIDATES WITH A MODERATOR PRESENT TO ENFORCE FAIR TIME INTERVALS FOR EACH CANDIDATE. LET’S HIT BOTH CANDIDATES WITH TOUGH QUESTIONS AND SEE WHO REALLY HAS WHAT IT TAKES TO BE POTUS!! THEN LET’S GET ON WITH WINNING THE GENERAL ELECTION AGAINST MCCAIN!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD PEOPLE – LET’S END THIS THING FAIRLY ONCE AND FOR ALL!!! DEBATE, DEBATE, DEBATE!!!

Posted by: fairsuperdelegates08 | April 27, 2008, 2:44 pm 2:44 pm

The next debate should be between the democratic – Barrack Obama – candidate and McCain. I don’t blame Barrack for declining debates with no moderator. Who wants to debate a wild woman that can’t follow rules. Hillary seems to think she is on an upswing..just watch, she will be finally put in her place. She must be exposed for the certified snakes she and Bill are.
Remember folks, she was quoted as telling Bill referring to Regan Democrats ” screw em, you don’t owe them anything” Keep in mind the screw em part. That is precisely what she will do you guys if elected. She only cares about Hillary..al else is idle B.S.

Posted by: Alan | April 27, 2008, 2:49 pm 2:49 pm

jbate again reposts the very same thing. Small mind? Certainly he’s never come close to an issue.

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 2:58 pm 2:58 pm

OBAMA”S CHICKENS:
OBAMA doesn’t have what it takes to lead the United States, either stand-up wise or moral-wise. The Wright issue broke on March 13, and in the only primary since then he lost by 10%. Then in the last debate, he came up short. His confidence and ratings have fallen, and had his relationship with Wright been known at the outset the overall voting results would be different today. His not wanting to debate doesn’t speak well at all for his fortitude. His chickens are coming home to roost

Posted by: Billw | April 27, 2008, 2:58 pm 2:58 pm

frustrated in indy
What criterion did you use in your massive research to compare the candidates? Did that research of candidates include Nader? How much time did you spend? (really)

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 3:04 pm 3:04 pm

As I stated in my earlier comment I have researched each cadidate no matter what their party affiliation is including Nader who btw was not wearing a lapel pin as well. I also stated I have voted for all parties in previous elections. Furthermore…That was the first comment I have EVER made on the internet and I did not do it with hateful words. Life is too short to spend time hating fellow man.

Posted by: frustrated in indy | April 27, 2008, 3:15 pm 3:15 pm

jbate says “No, but your mommy does!
” Now isn’t that clever?

Posted by: S | April 27, 2008, 3:31 pm 3:31 pm

HRC would like to have a 1-1 debate between her and the other intelligent candidate.
Since McCain won’t debate her yet she asked Obama.
He won’t debate because he has nothing to say without it being pre-written.

Posted by: Mel | April 27, 2008, 4:23 pm 4:23 pm

You know all that money Obama is basking in, well, that’s what he lives for. If he gets to be president, he will take all your money by raising taxes and spending it the way he did in PA … for a loss. Come on Obama supporters. Think about it. You are touting his big money as if that’s a plus, yet Hillary was outspent and WON with less money. Now that’s the kind of president I want – not the one who can’t even win with boatloads of YOUR money.

Posted by: Kitty | April 27, 2008, 5:51 pm 5:51 pm

Why should Obama debate with Hillary? He’s ahead and she’s desparate to have him “slip up” so she can have what she has always felt entitled to. Every argument Hillary has made was to distract everyone from looking at what we have seen from the beginning-She is unelectable. Her negatives are so high, independents will vote for McCain, she is divisive, secretive, Bill Clinton will be “roaming around” the White House doing what she did which is why people call her the First Vice President (Ever think about why Al Gore has not supported her? He remembers what it was like to work with her) she will say anything to win (sniper fire incident-She said it 4 different times, 3 am ad-You won’t be safe if Obama is president) and is running on the reminder of “how things were in the 90′s”. I was here, some things were good, some not so good. Think Rwanda, Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, The Apology for Slavery, Lani Guinerre and the hunt for Bin Laden….And don’t make me go there about personal integrity……..

Posted by: Mike | April 27, 2008, 6:02 pm 6:02 pm

Independents won’t vote for Hillary? Uhhhh wrong.

Posted by: Kitty | April 27, 2008, 6:05 pm 6:05 pm

Why give a broke competitor free advertisement. Hillary is only offering this becuase she’s desparate to stay in the media. Let’s be clear she did well in the last debate only because the moderators catered to her. After the debate, there were over 15000 comments posted on ABC about the debate. Of which the vats majority were blasting George and Charlie for the ambush.

Posted by: vukasika | April 27, 2008, 6:57 pm 6:57 pm

Hillary and Huckabee have called for Lincoln Douglas Debates. I guess its the thing to do when you are way behind.
I gotta idea, how about Hillary and Huckabee debate each other Lincoln Douglas style? They could travel around Arkansas, if they like, and just go for broke. I’d be fun to watch!
So, anyone up for a series of Hillary Huckabee Debates? Count me in.

Posted by: The Commander Guy | April 27, 2008, 7:08 pm 7:08 pm

Wow. Hillary supporters accusing Obama’s folks of hitting low that’s rich. If Obama wanted to hit low or like a Rove Republican, his commercials would be full of stained blue dresses, comments about Whitewater and impechment. He would remind folks just of just morally bancrupt the Clinton years were and G.W. Bush won because he ran on a platform of returning moral authority to the highest office. Hillary is continuing in her husband’s fine legacy of dregging the bottom. No wonder Hillary fundraisers and superdelegates are switching teams.

Posted by: vukasika | April 27, 2008, 7:22 pm 7:22 pm

Wow, I can`t believe Barack Obama is a coward man and can`t face Hillary on rebate. all states deserve right to listen their rebates. Now many peoples will not vote Obama because he is a coward man. Because he can`t stand up to other country! Most of peoples who support Obama- they are cover him. they know he can`t face Hillary- that why they covered him.
Go Go Hillary or MCCain

Posted by: Roy Morris | April 27, 2008, 8:01 pm 8:01 pm

Debates are an excellent way for the Americans; poor/workingand elderly to SEE and HEAR the candidateson the issues versus watching the short 30 sec snippettes which each camp attempts to sneak in a”jab” on the other one! Remember…not all Americans have the money or the time toget on the net, to read the paper or to spend any money on magazines. I sayDEBATE DEBATE DEBATE til you’re blue in the face! Many Americans stillneedto decide whothey’ll back in Nov. It looks BEST for the DEMS if they get their faces on prime time TV and Debate or…..McCain will win!!!

Posted by: DaneNM | April 27, 2008, 10:09 pm 10:09 pm

Debate is required … Network can hold an open, live debate, with limited moderation on the network side. By invitation to both candidates.
Each comes with up to four debate themes .. not to be announced or disclosed until prior to debate. Time divided among themes.
If only one shows up, its his or her time. He or she can talk to the American public. If both show up, they debate, and debate the old fashion way.
Let the reporters report, and pollsters poll after the debates.
This is about the Democrats. This is about Obama and Clinton, the Anthony and Octavius of their party.
Let the voters see what they’ve voted for. Let others who haven’t voted see what they will be voting for.
Let the superdelegates get closure with classic evidence of abilities.
Let these two candidates be seen using their craft – because they are as tough personally and circumstantially to each other as what either will face if elected into the presidency.

Posted by: aliasinkhorn | April 27, 2008, 11:04 pm 11:04 pm

Why don’t we have them in Ottawa Illinois where they were the first time and myself as the middle class guy to moderate, just a regular middle class person and in Washington park on Sunday afternoon.

Posted by: Matt, Illinois | April 28, 2008, 2:04 am 2:04 am

Obama/Clinton have done all the debates necessary==They should wait and count on the people to seat. I support Clinton as she is experienced/knowledged/know the ropes/ready for the job. Obama will have to learn his way around and I feel he has time to prepare for a future election.

Posted by: Susan | April 28, 2008, 9:31 am 9:31 am

Why do they need a other debate, I am sick of there debates. I was a Hillary supporter not any more. She is just as bad as Bush, She wants this so bad that she will do anything to get it. If any one has made the race about color is Bill Clinton. I see a lot of black just yelling for the Clinton’s but they are not for the black they want you to think thay are but they are not. We as a people need to wake up and someone need to say stop all of the fighting and get to the issues, I don’t my son to go back to Irqa, how are we going to get people to work, the Gas, health care, get people off of our gov’t assistance, police porfiling, there are other important issues that we need to here not one of Hillary bully debates. I have lost all respect for her. We need a change. Please get back to what is important.

Posted by: Renita | April 28, 2008, 12:58 pm 12:58 pm

We have had 7 years of Government Approved Media Coverage.
We NEED VIGOROUS DEBATES!
KEEP THEM COMING!
The next president must be throughly veted.
Anyone who is tired of debates needs to get some more sleep.

Posted by: Big Bill | April 28, 2008, 1:17 pm 1:17 pm

Big Bill it would be nice to have a debate if it was about the issuse and not about Rev Wright, Why don’t some ask Hillary about her Black Panter days and the law firm that she worked for they supported them. So when she talk”s about Obama and Rev Wright she has no room to talk.

Posted by: Renita | April 28, 2008, 1:28 pm 1:28 pm

Why is the press particularly CNN,always seem to be overjoyed when the news is against Obama? Why have they stopped airing Hillary’s lie in her Bosnia experoence? Shame on you CNN, shame on you Hillary

Posted by: Dave j Hornwall | April 28, 2008, 4:11 pm 4:11 pm

I am so sick & tired of hearing of Hiliary Clinton who is not interested in the American People. She is only interested in herself. She has Blind Ambition, she is selfish and I am sick & tired of even hearing her name. The respect I did have for her and Bill it is all gone. She could not buy my vote for a million dollars. He should not debate why??? This lady has just about destroyed the Democratic Party.

Posted by: jan | April 28, 2008, 4:45 pm 4:45 pm

As long as she’s winning, she want a debate. When she’s losing no debate.

Posted by: gsista | April 28, 2008, 6:04 pm 6:04 pm

The truth of the matter is America has had it’s fill of Obama. He was a fashionable black man that commanded the coo’s and awes of white America, until they made Rev Wright(an unrelated and total irrelevant loud mouth) the voice of a man that had proven that he spoke for himself. The problem here is, Hillary Clinton was on the ground dead before Rev. Wright. She earned that space on the pavement beaten and battered by her own transparent and dated tactics of seperationalism and back door racism. The White elitest media seized on every opportunity to revive a dead campaign, after awaking from thier nightmare of a black president. They ate greedly at the table of ignorance feeding fodder that they knew was baseless and nothing to do with Obama as a person. Rather, it was his skin that the cared about…What else have Rev Wright and he shared, except the same color? Two black figures in the lime light unrelated in character and in the message they brought. Yet, they were bound by the racism a paranoia of a country too under evolved to sieze would could be its last chance at redemption

Posted by: AwakeandBlack | April 29, 2008, 9:09 am 9:09 am

Obama has ran out of gas in the fourth quarter of a mile race. We have found out the real Obama. He used Wright to get accepted into Black Community. Now we know who the real Obama is! He can’t hide anymore. He is turning out to be just like Sen.Kerry.He won all those delagates, he now claims,by using his people to jam and claim them at the county caucases like the did in Texas.
Remember we won the vote in Texas?

Posted by: Jaime | April 29, 2008, 10:12 am 10:12 am

Leave a Reply

Do you have more information about this topic? If so, please click here to contact the editors of ABC News.