wHEN DO we hear about what they think on the issues? Just keep asking about bitterness or what’s been said in the past. What do they think about how to resolve some important issues????
Posted by: Linda mARLEY | April 16, 2008, 8:23 pm 8:23 pm
Sen Obama plays “dodgeball” and never answers direct questions with direct answers.The owner of BET today said that Obama is only running for President because of his race.He says he was not present the time Rev.Wright made derogatory remarks !!! He says that he was a member of his church for 20 years !!! Please !!Patriotism!!!!!I am afraid of the people he will have around him in the Oval Office..
Why are these candidates tolerating this inane series of questions that have virtually nothing to do with the Presidency? Reverend Wright will have no impact on the impending Depression. Absence of true sniper fire in Bosnia will not make Sunni and Shia put aside their road side bombs and pending genocide.
If Hilary and Obama had true courage they would join hands and blow off these moderators who are asking questions that only the uneducated and Republicans should care about.
Posted by: Dan | April 16, 2008, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
Why are these candidates tolerating this inane series of questions that have virtually nothing to do with the Presidency? Reverend Wright will have no impact on the impending Depression. Absence of true sniper fire in Bosnia will not make Sunni and Shia put aside their road side bombs and pending genocide.
If Hilary and Obama had true courage they would join hands and blow off these moderators who are asking questions that only the uneducated and Republicans should care about.
Posted by: Dan | April 16, 2008, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
This is the worst debate I have seen on TV. The narrators of the debate are leading with sensationalistic questions making the debate a waste of one’s time. Very disappointing. Let’s talk issues.
Posted by: Marilyn | April 16, 2008, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
Obama’s negatives are just as high as Hillary’s. But of course, the media ignore that.
The media have the highest negatives of all!
The story on this debate seems to be the horrible job being done by the ABC questioners. Obviously there concern is to generate a sound bite that will play well. They have spent 45 minutes asking trying to play “gotta” with the candidates. I feel that it is inept – shallow – people such as these two ABC questioners who do so much to demean the entire process. I just pray that the American public is not as stupid as these ABC people think we are and that indeed we care more about what these two would do as president than how well they can respond to their (at least in their own minds) slick questions.
Posted by: Jim | April 16, 2008, 8:56 pm 8:56 pm
Sen. Obama, as the president of the United States you are to put the country first always. We all make mistakes and as president I don’t think your going to not make mistakes but I am fearful that should I make comments about your performance on any subject that I will be labeled a racist and every issue of contention will become a race issue. If you are aware that you cant control the team around you and certainly not the public opinion are you really putting the country first above your own personal gain?
Posted by: Leo | April 16, 2008, 8:56 pm 8:56 pm
Jake,
Her negatives are high because it’s unbecoming for women to seek positions of power so there’s a double standard no matter what she does. Any women seeking the Presidency is going to be scrutinized 2-3 times more than any man. I also think people give Obama points for being black. Racism is extremely pernicious in this country so it’s payback time.
However, women who vote for Clinton because she’s a woman (are there? I think people vote for who they think will be the best President) are criticized whereas people who vote for Obama because he’s black are not criticized. There are many people who give him leeway because he’s the first viable black candidate for the Presidency.
Posted by: donna darko | April 16, 2008, 9:00 pm 9:00 pm
Media bias, mostly. They are apparently being paid by the Obama Campaign particularly Chris Mathews & even my normal favorite, Kieth Obermann of MSNBC. FOX wants Obama cause they know he will be beat by Mc Cain, which we can’t afford. Obama is like Carter, and will be a single term President, and we need Clinton for 8.
Posted by: Joe Bowker | April 16, 2008, 9:01 pm 9:01 pm
PS
I have decided the best thing I can do to keep my sense of what this terribly important presidential campaign is REALLY about is to turn off this event which Gibson and Stepenopolis have run into the ground.
Posted by: Jim | April 16, 2008, 9:02 pm 9:02 pm
I do not believe that Hillary has any where near the negative remarks against her that B.O. has against him, unles you count the news media they are the unfair people in this whole election process! But I am not worried because the ones who make up all of the lies and cruel remarks about Hillary will be sorry soon because SHE WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT! We really need her and she is in it to win it and she will. Sincerely, Judi – Warren, Michigan
Posted by: Judi Smith | April 16, 2008, 9:02 pm 9:02 pm
“The story on this debate seems to be the horrible job being done by the ABC questioners.”
Thanks, Jim! It’s not on out here until later, and I’ve decided to watch John Stewart instead.
Posted by: Belle Starr | April 16, 2008, 9:03 pm 9:03 pm
Clintons negatives are high because she has turned into the Karl Rove of the Democratic party. Her underhanded, dishonest attacks are shameful to all Democrats. She is now stooping to the same level of those who so unfairly tried to keep her and and husband from accomplishing important work for so many years, and deep inside she must feel very ashamed of herself.
“particularly Chris Mathews & even my normal favorite, Kieth Obermann of MSNBC.”
I can still hardly believe the horrible change in Keith Olbermann — he even LOOKS different, and not in a good way. You don’t suppose they’re actually being drugged or threatened or electronically altered in some way?
Posted by: Belle Starr | April 16, 2008, 9:09 pm 9:09 pm
C-Span should host the debates because the networks are threatened by an informed citizenry.
Yes, commentators are doing an embarrassing job. Asking ridiculous questions that have very little to do with policy. The should both be ashamed to call themselves journalists and ABC should be ashamed of itself for stooping to the level of Fox News. Clinton needs to stop the underhanded tactics–that is why her negatives are so high.
Posted by: mary | April 16, 2008, 9:16 pm 9:16 pm
I am done with abc after this debate
Posted by: steve | April 16, 2008, 9:21 pm 9:21 pm
Wow. Could this debate be any more biased? The entire first 40 minutes was harping on Obama’s supposed guilt by association.
Posted by: VVO | April 16, 2008, 9:25 pm 9:25 pm
Yikes! Looks like Mr. Gibbson took Obama’s pillow away.
Posted by: Zach | April 16, 2008, 9:25 pm 9:25 pm
Obama is the front runner and the questions posed are to answer the questions of the right wingers.
Posted by: zz | April 16, 2008, 9:28 pm 9:28 pm
I have never seen a worst debate. What is this with not talking about the issue’s, in the first hour. Terrible questions that have been beat to death. I have watched most of the debates that were held but this one is a waste of my time. I have nor respect for who ever decided to use this agenda. Beverly
I have never seen a worst debate. What is this with not talking about the issue’s, in the first hour. Terrible questions that have been beat to death. I have watched most of the debates that were held but this one is a waste of my time. I have nor respect for who ever decided to use this agenda. Beverly
I believe the problem may be that the “celebrity” journalists are just lazy. They either dont have the time or inclination to do their homework – (even with the staff support that I am sure they have.) And they confuse a “hard” question with an “embarrassing” question. They should be pressing each candidate with their policy positions or leadership styles but this would mean they would have to dig into the far less sexy world of the issues. If this were done right it could be of value to the electorate and it could also be engaging
TV! But no matter how profound they try to look their demeanor does not put much of a veneer over the frivolity of their questions. But our wonderful 24/7 “news” media and people like these two on ABC will continue to focus on Clinton’s Bosnia, and Obama’s Wright. If they think George Bush embarrasses us before the world (and certainly I do) I wonder if they realize how they are a source of embarrassment for us with anyone from outside the US who would watch this debate given the fact that they spent time in this debate focusing on the serious question before the US: Should candidates for the presidency wear flag lapel pins!! how others from outside our country would think about us spending time on a presidential debate talking about lapel pins!!!!!
Posted by: Jim | April 16, 2008, 9:33 pm 9:33 pm
it’s so high, because the media made it so high.
I’m sick of the media, especially ABC.
I remember very cleary, how Bush won the presidency.
This is where rank sexism kicks in in our society. Obama gets points for being “pugnacious” (CBS New) for his attack on Hillary, but Hillary loses points on likeability for her attacks on Obama. She can’t win either way.
You’ve all heard it before. Women that are perceived as having power are also perceived as being b—-hs.
========================================
Barack Obama, the wizard of Bittergate!
========================================
Why Obama can attack Hillary, and Hillary even can not attack back?
Remember last year at the beginning of the campaign, Obama fooled people that, if Hillary is elected, their life is at most as good as the Bill Clinton’s time. He wants to bring better life to America.
That’s attack.
when Obama said Hillary is status quo, that’s attack.
NO pillow for you! Wow, Obama gave the worst debate performance I have ever seen. Hillary cleaned his clocked and then some. Obama never smiler, what a bitter man.
Every time when I watched debate live, I admire Hillary so much. She is so smart, so substantive, so quick responsive, so decisive. But after that, I read news online, the media twisted the words, and made Hillary look bad.
Clearly, tonight, When asked the question whether Obama can win the general election, Hillary said yes, but she also said she is better. However, the news put an article titled ‘Hillary said yes’.
Why the media is so silly to put down a smart candidate?
Why the media wants another Bush-like opportunist to be president?
I’m talking about the Clinton bullies throughout the years, not just this election. They will do whatever necessary to win. And it will tear this party apart. This tells me that they aren’t concerned about our country, they just want the power at any cost to us.
Several polls have showed Hillary is leading Obama in PA, with wide margins. But the media choose not to report any good news about her, only focusing on negative.
WOW…
I agree with one poster here that this ABC debate is the most horrifying free fall in political journalism I’ve ever seen in a debate in a presidential campaign…
just incredible, shame on ABC…
What did YOU think of it Jake? I’d be interested.
I agree with ‘geevill’.
No pillow given by C Gibson. BTW, all ABC reporters show see Gibson as example.
Obama’s debate performance is so bad. I don’t think he even has one debate better than Hillary.
See, debate is unprepared speeches. How Obama is bad on this??
Remember, unprepared speeches, that’s one factor we should consider when picking president.
PS Obama’s negatives are at an all time high too! And what’s remarkable is that he has had the most positive press and spin of any candidate in history…and his negatives are still catching up to him.
It is not surprising that Hillary has extremely high negatives the Obama strategy of vilifying and demonizing Clinton in order to raise her negatives even more has been succeeding.
Regardless of her negatives there are still 50% of the likely Democratic voters that prefer her.
I have no confidence in the polls for PA and believe they will be inaccurate as were the polls for most of the states that Hillary has wond to date….PA plus at least 12 points is my prediction.
Great performance by Hillary!!!!
Great questions by Charlie and George, now this was a debate. No easy questions for either one. Hillary was ready with steps and data. obama rambled on for too many questions.
Hillary Clinton was awesome tonight! Obama was so unbelievably weak! Hillary is so smart and she was up to date on policy, foreign affairs and current issues etc. She was also articulate concise and to the point. He really danced around so many of the questions. His lack of experience and weak policy really came through. It was obvious that he is not in the same league as Hillary Clinton. She is capable in touch and will turn this country around!! I hope this debate will help turn this racially imbalanced race around. Go HILLARY!!!!
Posted by: DR. Kathleen Parker | April 16, 2008, 10:14 pm 10:14 pm
This was the best debate I have ever seen too….ABC really is the fairest MSM in most respects. MSNBC is already up smashing the debate and trying to say that George and Charles didn’t ask the right questions…I think they were upset that Obama came across as tenative and inexperienced….perhaps MSNBC would have preferred that ABC cover for Obama and attack Hillary
Thank you to ABC for a great effort.
Because a cutting room is a powerful rhetoric and the millions of dollars spent by the Republican Party on destroying her for years have worked.
She is still the best candidate.
1. Great work by Charlie Gibson tonight. That was a fine debate and ABC showed more guts with the candidates than I’ve seen all election season. They went right to the tough questions and followed up. Congratulations for bringing journalism back to TV.
2. Jake, what was going on when they cut to you, fellow? You really looked perplexed.
3. Obama IS unelectable. Hillary is wrong about that, sorry, but so. Just as those who believe her negatives are so high, his deflections away from his own flawed judgments are just as glaring.
I enjoyed this debate. It was the barn burner I thought it would be.
Now off to CNN and MSNBC to watch the sleazy tricks of the cutting room and the in-the-tank punditry of the TV tabloids.
Fox is Fox. Tautologies R Them.
Posted by: len | April 16, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
Jake-
Dude! I usually like your political commentary, but your comments on the debate sucked. The issue of Obama’s “shady connections” has always been a complete red herring. It’s B.S. Does anyone remember the Clinton’s long list of corrupt connections? Do you think that won’t come up in the general election? Why does she get a pass on this issue?
Posted by: Mike | April 16, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
I do not know if the Candidates were debating each other or Debating George and Charlie. The Rev wright flap and the Bitter flap and the Bosnia flap has been beat to death.
I thought overall it was a poor performance on the part of ABC, I would have liked to see more on the issues, and less interuption when the Candidates were answering.
Jacki says………It is not surprising that Hillary has extremely high negatives the Obama strategy of vilifying and demonizing Clinton in order to raise her negatives even more has been succeeding.
……………………….
Are you kidding me. Hillary and especially Bill have done that all by themselves. Obama just needs to sit back and watch.
Hillary Logic Example #943
Hillary Statement : The glass isn’t half-full, it’s completely FULL! It’s full, because I personally filled it, at great personal risk to my health!
Media response : Video evidence proves it was alwayds half full. She lied, maybe she’s lied about other stuff, ya think?
Obama statement : I thought it kinda looked half empty, which is a shame. If only people would stop voting for divisive garbage and vote in their best interests, we could all come together and keep it full all the time!
Media response : Hillary said that Obama’s statement about the glass was insulting people for voting on “garbage” and was elitist. On further review, he could have been clearer, but he’s kinda right on that one. Bad form on Hillary for misconstruing the point.
Hillary Logic Conclusion : MEDIA BIAS!!!
Her negatives are high because there has been a concerted effort by much of the media and the Obama campaign to paint her as a monster. MisognyNBC has delivered 24hour smears against her. CNN as we speak is repainting the debate in a negative light. Obama makes passive aggressive attacks on her all the time and has since the beginning an no one dares to call him out on it. Stop smearing her 24/7 and her negatives will go down.
Posted by: jb | April 16, 2008, 10:24 pm 10:24 pm
HILLARY THE GREAT! She just demonstrated why she is qualified to be President and he is not. I’m glad someone asked him about the radicals he consorts with–too bad they didn’t ask him about his support (and campaigning for ) his socialist cousin Raila Odinga of Kenya whose supporters burn their opposition to death in churches!
How about District 11 in Chicago? The south side of Chicago is a hell-hole–in spite of being represented by Obama his entire political life–how’s he gonna fix a country if he can’t fix a city..???
Okay- If MSNBC First Read can admit Obama tanked in the debate, surely ABC can admit it to.
Posted by: Obama Tanked the Debate | April 16, 2008, 10:25 pm 10:25 pm
WORST DEBATE I,VE WATCHED. SO ONE SIDED. NO COMPARISON TO TIM RUSSERT AND BRIAN WILLIAMS WHO HAVE CLASS.
Posted by: TINA PETERS | April 16, 2008, 10:26 pm 10:26 pm
I thought they did a great job at least they made them answer the question and if they didn’t them again asked and didn’t let it drop.The questions were loaded and I thought over all it was good,cleared the air in many respects.Had to notice Obama would not be nasty to Hilly, even tho she was to him,she is nasty and will be from now on because no one believes her lies.Loved the excuse on Bosnia hahaha
Posted by: h | April 16, 2008, 10:27 pm 10:27 pm
I think Hillary has won all the debates. BUT I think the quality of all these debate has been very poor. What about the issues, what about Florida and Michigan.
Posted by: tt | April 16, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm
The comment attributed to Hillary Clinton some years ago in an unauthorized book….may not even be true.
Obama admitted he made the comments in San Francisco but everyone seems to be leaving out the “antipathy to people that are not like them and anti-immigrant”….so I guess he gets a pass again…If someone called me a bitter gun toting bible thumper I would be upset…but if someone called me a racist I would never vote for them.
What is it with Obama that we are down to the nomination wire and his campaign has thrown more mud than any campaign in recent history…but we are not allowed to question this guy.
scary
jb, the Clintons have been around forever. And you are blaming Obama for her negatives. Oh please, no one has ever liked Hillary and now she is showing her true colors with her lies and negativity. She will stop at nothing to win this nomination. That is why people are turning against her. She will ruin this country unless she is the nominee. Do you not see that.
The first thing that came to my mind while watching this debate was is this ABC News or FOX News? I have never seen such a biased debate in all my life. I think if one is really honest, more dirty laundry could have been aired about the Clintons including dirty laundry about their associations over the years and all of Bills “oral misquotes during this campaign”. I just found myself wondering what about the true issues. Rarely were they ever discussed. I just think that ABC News blew a great opportunity to really get at the meat and potatoes of what the candidates views and plans reaaly are. I am so highly disappointed in and turned off by ABC after this that I’ve decided to watch NBC to get my news from here on, including Sundays. I do not even think I want to watch ABC’s local news coverage anymore. This whole debate has just left a bad after taste and has now costed ABC a news viewer.
Only ABC and FNC in my judgement have fair news. CNN, MSNBC,NBC they all bias toward Obama
Posted by: Sue | April 16, 2008, 10:34 pm 10:34 pm
Wow, that was a great debate, Jake. You must be really proud of your colleagues. We got to hear about flag pins and preachers and media generated non-gaffes and all sortsa exciting stuff!! And none of that boring FISA or NAFTA or Health Care or Supreme Court or “Unitary Executive” or torture, thank goodness!
Your network is filth.
It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t have heard their plans for healthcare… but Hillary was at the top of the game when it came to explaining what she would do in regards to the economy and Iraq,
I thought Obama was kind of surly towards Hillary. Did anyone else pick up on that?
And his pap on patriotism was nada.
I agree, This debate was clearly one-sided
I am glad however
Obama refused to attack Clinton when she was clearly pushing hard at him
But I’ll be waiting for the “screw em” comment to hit the airwaves
This is HILLY does for a living she eats ,breaths and sleep politics.Read an artical why they would never seperate, for their anniversary they stayed home and watched a old debate. That is her life,oh yes she is a speaker she does it well……Practice makes perfect….She kept refering to the 90 and their years>>>>again she did diddle squart.
Egad, it was nice Georgie Porgie was one of the moderators especially since he is one of Clinton’s henchmen. The debate sucked. What happened to true discussion about America’s problems instead of the BS? We need to hear issues and honesty not the lies that pour from Hillary’s mouth. She will raise taxes and it will be a mess. She owes her soul to the lobbyists and big corporations.It is a well known fact that the Clintons will do anything to win and they don’t care about morals. I will have to vote for McCain if she gets the nomination. How sad. Obama ’08
Perhaps her negatives would not be so high if you reported the factual news and not make crap up.
Here’s a thought…try taking a poll and ask voters if they think that Hillary or the media is to blame for the tone of the campaign. You would be surprised how smart we are.
Better yet…try playing the entire “fairytale” quote and pick out all the references to race. You will not find a single one.
This is not the network of Peter Jennings.
Posted by: Gabe | April 16, 2008, 10:41 pm 10:41 pm
ABC sank lower than FOX with this debate.
I couldn’t believe mu eyes and ears.
Incredible.
Disgusting, even.
Poor candidates. They should never accept any ABC invitation again.
Posted by: marian | April 16, 2008, 10:43 pm 10:43 pm
Comparing 46 years old and 60 yrs old which one has more negative in their life. The young one much less involves in politic just like a baby in the family.
The baby has not develop yet including in the negative things.
With all due respect Mr.Tapper, what I saw tonight was the most embarassing display of “journalism” I have ever seen. Thanks for doing America no favor. A flag pin question? Really? You lost me as a viewer. Disgusting.
Posted by: Dann | April 16, 2008, 10:47 pm 10:47 pm
I am plagiarizing this “post” because we all need to see it:
“For the ignorant bloggers who question the courage, intelligence or character of either of these two candidates, try running for local school board, or city council and see how tough it is to run for public office. In the entire history of the USA, we have never had two perfect people running for anything. However, we have had many intelligent and hard-working people run.
David Kolva, MD Oswego/Syracuse, NY (Sent Wednesday, April 16, 2008 9:38 PM)”
It’s something to remember when you’re slinging mud and venom at either one of them!
Your debate was an embarrassment. David Westin should be fired. That was not journalism. Lapel pins???? Gimme a break.
Posted by: rick | April 16, 2008, 10:50 pm 10:50 pm
I think Chris Mathew, Keith Olberman, Jack Cafferty, Jonathan Alter, Howard Fineman and all those reporters bias toward clinton voted 100 times each to make the pool look good.
Posted by: Sue | April 16, 2008, 10:50 pm 10:50 pm
Fabulous, ABC! You just wasted my valuable time with that debacle you promoted as a debate. The questions were nothing but sensationalized tabloid garbage, most of which reeked of a political “lynching.” I hardly think George Stephanopoulos can pass for an impartial moderator, considering his long relationship with the Clintons. (He removed all doubt by using questions straight from the right wing playbook.) My intelligence is insulted; these candidates should not be wasting my time, or theirs, answering this rubbish instead of addressing real issues. And, Hillary, your continual refusal to take the high road is making you look desperate-please stop!
I thought this was one of the better, more fair debates. Unfortunately, the easy little flag question, not to mention the post-debate spin online, continues to reveal an Obama-biased media. Senator Clinton is definitely the stronger, more capable candidate, and I hope the media doesn’t deprive us of this opportunity to have her serve as President.
Now,,you guys are complaining, condemning ABC not when Tim Russett took the debate last time.
Be fair, please,,,
There is a happy hour and there is a time to pay also.
Those who think Obama won this debate are going to support him, no matter what he does or does not do. On the other hand, no matter how smart and how cogently she explains her answers to all the questions she’s asked, she will be criticized and villified. It surely doesn’t seem right that for all the good things she has planned for her country and its people, she is defined by a stupid missed recall of a landing in Bosnia 12 years ago. General Wesley Clark, NATO Commander in charge of the fighting in Bosnia, has endorsed her. Doesn’t that count for something? Obviously not.
For example: Call her a liar; but look at the whoppers Obama has told such as the extent to which Mr. Retzko contributed to his campaign – first none, then $150,000, finally $250,000. First, never heard any of Rev. Wright’s terrible sermons; well yes he heard some, and finally, was familiar with them. Then tonight, does NOT accept PAC money, yet is backed by MoveOn.Org, the largest PAC out there.
However, as originally said, the Obama supporters are going to say he is right on all his views; but personally, we feel badly that, if she fails, this country will be devoid of one of the smartest people ever to run for the presidency.
The questions in the beginning of this debate were a real waste of time. The Bosnia issue, Reverend Wright, the bitter issue have been beaten to death by the media. It doesn’t help one American avoid foreclosure on their home. It doesn’t help us at the gas pump, at the supermarket, and our soldiers are dying in Iraq, and coming home disabled. Families are torn apart and it’s time to get rid of the distractions and let the candidates tell us how they are going to make the necessary changes for healthcare, the economy, the war, social security, the environment. We have enough serious issues to discuss. We are voting for our lives to be better than they have been during previous administrations. This was a very disappointing debate. The questions were terrible and manipulative. It was a missed opportunity for the American people to get some substance during the debate. I’m glad to see Obama take the high road. Obama 08
Even the live audience found the debate so horrible that they jeered at Charlie Gibson. “OH…” he declared, his hands raised in defense. “The crowd is turning on me, the crowd is turning on me.”
What an extremely poor performance of George and Charlie… An insult to American voters, to people’s concerns and worries and expectations, to American politics, to the elections, to the Presidency, to the candidates and to the viewers.
Shame on ABC! This was GARBAGE.
Jake, get out of there! Save your soul!
They did not bring up all of Obama’s dear friends,
- Senator Meeks who openly hates whites and gays and is listed prominently on Obama?s campaign website as a major Obama supporter and backer and is one of Obama;s super-delegate. Mr. Meeks has been integral in Obama success in politics.
- Mr. Ayers of the Weather Underground, a group that killed police and tried to bomb the US Capitol, served with Obama on the board of the leftist foundation called the Woods Fund.
- Robert Malley a close senior adviser to Obama who advocates negotiations with Hamas and providing international assistance to the terrorist group.
- Mr. Auchi is an Iraqi billionaire and major financial sponsor and closely connected to Obama?s rise to power. While working with Saddam Hussein, Auchi made his fortune through the selling of arms in Iraq and the funneling off of money from the Oil for Food program.
- Mr. Rezko an Iraqi citizen and Obama?s and Auchi?s long time friend of 17 years and a major mob figure. Rezko is NOT known for his civic sense of duty and does not do favors without asking something in return. Coincidently the Chicago Times reported yesterday that Rezko was negotiating to purchase rehab buildings in Obama?s district.
- Mr. Wright a racist who hates America and whites . Mr. Wright has been Mr. Obama?s spiritual mentor for over 20 years. bounced all his political ideas off of. Before the media exposed Mr. Wright, he was Obama’s chief religious advisor on Obama?s campaign staff. Mr. Wright and Mr. Meeks are ideologically closer to Karl Marx and Black Nationalism, than to Christianity.
- Rashid Khalidi a fundraiser for Obama and is one of Obama?s close friends. Khalidis claim Israel as a “catastrophe”, and supports Palestinian terrorist groups.
- Mr. McPeaks is Obama?s military adviser and national campaign co-chairman who publicly states that American Jews are the “problem.” and ?Christian Zionists were driving America’s policy in Iraq to benefit Israel.?
Lauren
I thought this was a great debate. I think Obama will be the nominee. I know the Hillary supporters say they won’t support him but the young people and the independents will elect him because they are tired of the republicans in office. Look what a mess they have made of this country.
Well Jake, if she sucks so bad.. and everyone hates her.. how come he can’t beat her in large states? How comes she’s won all the big ones.. and looks like PA will follow suit? If she is so bad, such a liar, such a phoney, and he’s outspending her 5:1, the MSM is in his pocket, yet with all that.. he still can’t finish her? Seems like maybe she’s not the problem.
Posted by: A reader in Georgia | April 16, 2008, 11:04 pm 11:04 pm
Obama supporters are whining in chorus about the questions that Barack got in the debate tonight. Wright, bitter-cling, Ayers, flag pin…a run down of 527 ad subject matter for the general election. Whining may be what you’re used to, but it is unattractive and really ineffective. I’m sure it will do you a lot of good should we suffer the misfortune of watching your man square of against John McCain. McCain knows a bit about adversity. He has faced and weathered it before and against him Obama will look like pretty pathetic.
This debate was about a whole lot of nothing! It was clear that both Lou and George were Hillary supporters! Lou’s constant interruption of Senator Obama was deplorable, However, it was great to observe how Obama handled the situation. In my view he showed his Presidential characteristics by continuing his points and not bashing Clinton on Bosnia when we all know she was just telling a big tall tale to get votes!
Senator Obama certainly won my support tonight!
Lou and George are so biased, they are a disgrace to the Media.
Senator Obama should never again subject himself to such demeaning tactics.
The American people are not stupid and could readily see through all of the charades by Lou and George!
Hillary did get carried away telling her war story. That was a mistake she admits. The press, with profuse encouragement from the Obama campaign, has hammered her on that story. Then they hammered her unfairly about the Ohio health care story and didn’t sufficiently correct their stories when the facts came out. Assuming the polls were an accurate measure of her negatives, I would assume the press handling of those two incidents would be a big reason.
Posted by: Pat | April 16, 2008, 11:10 pm 11:10 pm
This was one of the worst debates I’ve ever watched. Sean Hannity himself couldn’t have put on a worse debate. Everyone at ABC News needs to distance themselves from it. The channel’s reputation is at stake.
Posted by: Mike | April 16, 2008, 11:10 pm 11:10 pm
McCain won’t win against Hillary or Obama. He is too old. I know I won’t vote for him and I’m a republican. I am staying home.
Posted by: sad | April 16, 2008, 11:11 pm 11:11 pm
It’s not so much of unfairness
It just seemed as if the moderators were pressing hard on Obama
and meekly touching on Clinton
After the first hour, I stopped tuning in…
I believe voters in the upcoming primaries realized the bias of this debate
I cannot believe all the criticism that has come down about George S. and Charlie Gibson in tonight’s debate. I thought they were superb. The questions they asked clarified the accusations unfairly made against Hillary Clinton by Chris Matthews, Keith Olbermann and the NBC biased people. The last debate moderated by Tim Russert and Brian Williams seemed as thought they thought of themselves of members of the great inquisition. The conduct of NBC and MSNBC during this presidential campaign has forever moved them from my favorite column. Hillary Clinton has performed magnificently in answering debate questions, just as well as Barack Obama, yet these people have chosen to hammer her unabatedly, and I for one am sick of them. Whoever said Fox News has covered the Democratic campaign in a more fair way than NBC/MSNBC is correct. Sorry Keith; we now watch Bill O’Reilly.
The debate was terrible. Charlie I am disappointed in the way you moderated. George you did the expected since you owe your loyalty to Hillary.
My 15 year old was watching and said he has much respect for Obama and the way he maintained he composure despite the obvious biasness displayed by the moderators.
Is this what he has to look forward to in America? Shame on you.We need to focus on the real issues that we are facing e.g. the war in Iraq, the economy,crime,social security,education,racism etc
an interesting observation-anderson cooper,keith olberman, and cnn. candy crawley, after weeks of hammering Sen. Clinton-about non issue items.
all of a sudden-they are interested in issues.
Sen. Clinton has been talking about the issues all along, obama has not been able to talk about the issues-because of all of the things we are finding out about him-and they are things we do need to be concerned with.
all of a sudden-cnn and the others want to move on.
so if it is past mess about sen. clinton lets talk about it analyse it and bring her down with it.
but when it is obama and his mess. lets talk about the issues.
obama copies hillary
I even heard him using terms that she has been using all along.
I cannot believe he gave an answer about the payroll tax cap.
and she disagreed with him about it
and he came back and said “well after iowa-someone had a cell phone and heard you tell a woman the same thing”
so I knew obama copied-and now I know how he copies.
I even heard axelrod on cspan when he was in the spin room-continually saying
well I think they both said that
or sen. obama said this and sen. clinton pretty much says the same thing
but the problem -you find out where the smarts are-from who is the originator of a plan as opposed to copying.
obama copies clinton.
and when the clinton plans go
where will obama get is plans from.
sen. clinton is the smart one.
A reader in Georgia, That is a very good point, with the MSM, money and high profile endorsements. Why hasn’t he left her in the dust? I guess half of the democrats still want her as president. I am so tired of the polls, can’t wait for Tuesday.
Posted by: Tina D | April 16, 2008, 11:18 pm 11:18 pm
You know Lauren, when Chris Matthews asked McCain if he thought Obama was an elitist, he said no, he didn’t feel that way about Obama. So why is everyone making this a big deal
ABC did a fine job in the debate tonight. It is about time that Obama was made to answer tough questions about his character. It was a refreshing change from the disgraceful NBC fawning over Obama.
THANK YOU ABC. YOU ARE INCREDIBLE. YOU GAVE THE WORLD A SNEAK PEEK HOW THE GENERAL ELECTION WILL BE IF OBAMA IS THE NOMINEE. THE GOP WILL BRING UP EVERYTHING CHARLIE AND GEORGE DID AND MORE! BRAVO ABC. NOW I KNOW WITHOUT DOUBT, IF OBAMA IS THE NOMINEE THAT MCCAIN WILL WIN. OBAMA WAS EVASIVE AND TANKED TONIGHT.
tapper, will you address the firestorm against ABCNews’ performance tonight?
apparently George and Charlie care more about label pins than waterboarding.
shame on you, ABC News. may your satellites fall to the earth.
I AM BOYCOTTING ALL ABC AND DISNEY PRODUCTS. FIRE GIBSON. FIRE GEORGE.
Bravo,
Obama will win against McCain. He has the youth and the independent vote along with so many of us that are tired of the same old politics. We want something different, we want change
Did Hillary say that Obama was electable? what about gas prices and food prices? I don’t care about bitter or cling, those things are not going to fix the bigger problems, most of the questions they asked were stupid and are not about how to get this country back on track….
Posted by: Bill | April 16, 2008, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm
See the reaction Jake…when Obama is asked a hard question…people aren’t used to this it disturbs them. The debates so far have been an exercise in Clinton bashing…and she was able to keep her cool and lay out her proposals..that have over time been adopted to a large extent by Obama.
Obama was not cool “unscripted” and what was that petty attack on Hillary?…about someone heard something in Iowa…I’m sure that’s going right under the radar because as always it was petty and stupid and so many believe the PR campaign for Obama.
This guy is a weasel.
As far as MSNBC I stopped watching them months ago…tonight I saw about 5 minutes of Keith bashing ABC and Clinton and I turned it off.
Whoever said Fox News has covered the Democratic campaign in a more fair way than MSNBC and CNN is correct. I have watched quiet a bit of FOX lately…the truth is they are Republican based but they admit it…
CNN claims to be “fair and unbiased” but they have commentators constantly advocating for Obama. MSNBC is angry and totally tabloid in it’s Obama campaign. ABC is better…
I am a lifelong Democrat and since I’m considering McCain I need to look at all the facts…I’m tired of the slant and I reject the Obama campaign’s control of MSM
ABC’s negatives are at record high as well after tonight.
A tabloid debate, an insult to America and the difficult issues we all face.
Posted by: ken | April 16, 2008, 11:34 pm 11:34 pm
you obama supporters have turned coverup and excuses for obama into an art
obama has been getting a pass-help-and the media doing his bidding in everyway.
If the media had vetted obama in the beginning-and we had found out what we know now about him-he would not be in the lead-if we had know earlier what we are finding out about him-EVEN YOU WOULD NOT HAVE VOTED FOR HIM
I mean for someone to have such a short politcal resume’ he has very quickly attached himself at various time to some very questionable people-and he should have to explain his association with these people.
now we finally have someone asking him the hard questions and you (obama supporters) cnn, msnbc, and all of the other so called newss agencies are turning on the abc moderators.
(what happened-did they ignore the memo to the media-that said “cover obama in all things at all cost-integrity included”) or because of their questions you realized george and charlie must have missed this evenings dose of obama-laced koolade.
Lets get back to the issues-and she will
run circles around him.
believe me-no one wants to stay off the issues-More that obama.-he knows the issues are not his strong points.
yeehah !!!!!!! Hillary kicked tonight ! Anyone who says Obama “won” that debate is downright blind. Finally, a major network (ABC) FAIRLY challenged the candidates . The best, most fair debate all season. It was more clear than ever that Obama shrinks under pressure. He will fall all over his words (like tonight) if the Republicans go up against him. He has no substantial record of solid change to pull from in a debate when challenged on the issues. The TRUE CHAMPION and UNIFIER tonight was MS. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 16, 2008, 11:36 pm 11:36 pm
I thought it was good that they brought up criticisms so that Obama could answer them; however, I must say that I have heard all of his answers before, but maybe others have not. Because he is the front runner, of course he is going to get the most challenges. I thought that he handled everything well with the grace and intelligence that we have come to expect. I thought it interesting that Hillary admitted to lying about the Bosnia thing. Good for her. I would like to see more discussions on how they answered the questions on policy. I agreed with both of them on everything but was leary of Clinton on her answers on Iran. I think that sometimes she is too heavy on military retaliation for fear that people don’t think a woman can take us to war. Don’t like that. I hope that the voters in PA (my native state and a great one)make choices based on who they think has the judgement, character, intelligence, integrity and unifying qualities. After many months of being on the fence, I support Barack Obama and was proud of him tonight.
Posted by: Jan | April 16, 2008, 11:39 pm 11:39 pm
Great debate! Best one I’ve seen on television so far. Charles and George were wonderful! You two make a great team!
I am an HRC supporter and all I’ve been waiting for are tough questions for both candidates. Tonight that happened. Of course, I think my candidate did a great job! And no to those who think the Wright issue had been laid to rest, that’s not true out here where I am at.
There are not too many “real democrats” in the county where I live. It’s a “red” county in a “red state.” But I can tell you Rev. Wright is still on the minds of a lot of people and Obama’s latest comments that he made himself in San Francisco are not resonating well with the “folks” out here because Ks. is except for the northeastern pocket next to Kansas City, Mo. and Wichita – a rural and small-town state. And even in the two most populated areas of the state, many people have their roots in rural and small-town America.
We are not happy with the economy and perhaps some people are “bitter” but we have always been “religious” people. There are many churches, temples, synagogues, meditation centers, etc. in the area where I live. People of almost any religious persuasion or “none at all” can probably find others of similar beliefs. My husband and I nor our children are “gun-owners” but many people we know enjoy hunting including some members of my family of origin. (I grew up on a farm.) To think that we and family and friends are gun-toting, religious bigots, and xenophobic as well because we’ve had to tighten our belts is ludicrous!
With so many people either still living in rural and small-town America or having their roots in the above, Senator Obama needs to apologize for his remarks in San Francisco. He didn’t mangle his words – his intent was to ridicule certain citizens of this country. It came across as arrogant and that doesn’t play well in many parts of the country.
Posted by: Cathy in Ks. | April 16, 2008, 11:40 pm 11:40 pm
so HRC supporters say this was a good debate?
HRC supporters frequently complain that we are getting off the issues, its about solutions not speeches and character, but this debate was more than 50% just petty issues like flag pins, and they’re satisfied?
FIRE GEORGE AND CHARLIE.
jgaw
In the history of our country, there have been many politicans who were not ready to take over and guide our country, they had no experience. Yet they did so and to the chagrin of many they became great leaders.
why are the obama supporters so angry tonignt?
If their guy is as clean as they dream he is-he can stand a few hard questions.
are you afraid he will mess up in his answers-or get himself in more trouble?
even our lord and savior Jesus Christ
didn’t mind being vetted-a little.
I didn’t care for the gotcha crud in the first 45 minutes. That “political silly season” stuff shouldn’t be in a debate. Once we got past that, it was a very good debate. Clinton was very presidential tonight with very expansive answers on a range of issues. Obama stumbled quite a bit, but did okay. She generally out performs him in this type of venue. I think this will help pull the majority of the undecided voters her way on Tuesday.
Vonda, your right, flag pins? what the hell is wrong with the democrats? too many stupid questions and not enough about fixing the problems, Hillary did not look at the camera when she answered and pointed fingers at Obama and Obama kept defending himself. very few times anything about issues from both of them…
Posted by: Bill | April 16, 2008, 11:47 pm 11:47 pm
erin,
I agree with you 100%-and Sen. Clinton will have a bit of a learning curve.But she will make a great leader
She has good command of the issues.
she can articulate her answers so the common person can understand where she stands.
and I know everybody knows when she says she is going to fight for the good of the country-there is no doubt she will.
and as you said-will become a great leader.
jgaw
In the history of our country, there have been many politicans who were not ready to take over and guide our country, they had no experience. Yet they did so and to the chagrin of many they became great leaders.
Mr Tapper, you have to admit that your colleagues Gibson and Stephanopoulos were the wrong people with the wrong questions.
Why did you not go in as a moderator ?
I really like your comments on ABC.
This Obama-grillfest showed that you guys have not information for serious voters and halfway educated viewers.
ABC is out of my program for very long time !
I was surprised to hear on CNN, Clinton supporters outnumbered Obama supporters 5 to 1 outside of the debate venue. I thought Obama had a lot of support in Philadelphia.
Posted by: Tina D | April 16, 2008, 11:53 pm 11:53 pm
I don’t think that ABC has won my support tonight allowing half the time of the debate on stupid questions which have no relation to the policy that the candidates intend to implement and will affect the country.(wasn’t that the scope of this meeting??????)
Shame on Charles and George for doing such a bad job.
Posted by: guy | April 16, 2008, 11:53 pm 11:53 pm
This has to have established a new low in Presidential Debate moderation. It took 45 minutes to get to the first question of any substance. How insulting!
Posted by: Nicholas Lefevre | April 16, 2008, 11:55 pm 11:55 pm
Why do I think her numbers are so low? Are you serious? The woman has had nothing but endless negative coverage. The negative numbers are exactly what those of you in the MSM have been aiming for. If the tables were turned and Mr. Hope was on MSNBC’s, CNN’s, ABC’s and most major newspaper’s HIT LIST, his numbers would be in the toilet too. Funny how that works. Negative news coverage for 15 months, negative polling numbers. Funny that. Amazing, isn’t it?
I find the comments that abhor ABC’s performance somewhat laughable. There are many on here who think the questions that seem to “attack” Obama were in poor taste (I think they are relevant, but a waste of time in a debate setting), yet if you look at Jake’s earlier post today, there were all sorts of people demanding that Clinton be asked about Bosnia and other “lies.”
You can’t have it both way folks. It was hardly biased…it was finally balanced.
You know why Obama can’t quit smoking? He always ends the day with a love fest with the MSM.
Posted by: echo | April 17, 2008, 12:00 am 12:00 am
so the obama supporters want to stay on the issues-GOOD!
that is just where Sen. Clinton shines the most.
so you obama people will stop with the bosnia thing? and asking about bill and monica, and the non-issues things.
as Sen. Clinton said-she has been in public life a lot longer and has a lot of baggage that has been and continues to be rummaged through-but obama in his short career-has enough baggage already-and this is all that we know about-
all of a sudden his supporters say “lets not talk about the baggage, lets talk about the issues”
We clinton supporters have been asking you for that for a while now.
so lets stay on the issues
How does obama think we will have universal healthcare if we leave 15mil people out.
and I am still not clear on his answer about affordable college for poor white kids-what about his education plan?
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:00 am 12:00 am
Jake, I forgot to compliment you on the BEST DEBATE THIS PRIMARY SEASON! Kudos to Charlie, George and you. It was the most fair debate to date. In fact, I was shocked by the evenhandedness of it. I forgot how a REAL journalist is suppose to act. Your network was awesome…TONIGHT. Thank you. Props where props are due.:)
Posted by: Vickie | April 17, 2008, 12:02 am 12:02 am
This debate was the most fair one yet. I liked that the responses were timed, and each were given an equal amount of time. I liked that the questions were staggered, and that they “flipped a coin” to see who would go first on opening and closings. I was impressed that both were challenged with tough questions and not allowed to wiggle out of fully answering.
ABC handled this debate in a very admirable way, and I think both candidates supporters should have been satisfied with the fairness of the debate, for a change.
That said, Jake I didn’t like your characterizations on Nightline. Clinton was ASKED questions about her positions on Wright and Obama’s bitter comments, and she responded, owning her position, while Obama hedged on the Bosnia question, admitting his “campaign” was hammering on it, “of course,” yet somehow dodging personal responsibility for what his campaign is doing? That just seemed dishonest to me. If his campaign is doing it – HE is, and I felt that you reinforced that in your report. I’d much rather see the candidates own their positions and actions, than try and appear above the fray, when their actions don’t match the perception they’re trying to falsly portray.
Posted by: Teri B. | April 17, 2008, 12:04 am 12:04 am
Obama Supporters Who Are Angry ~
THIS debate, as silly as it may have seemed certainly didn’t have Obama laughing or naturally joining with the audience. The “silly” questions re. flag pin, combined ticket, economy, Ayers relationship, Israel, Wright tapes, etc. etc. had Obama on the defensive from the start. All of these “silly” questions are going to bombard the media if he is the dem. nominee. If how he handled himself tonight is any indicator as to how he will handle himself when challenged by the Republicans we ALL lose. Being a “community organizer” is commendable work but it certainly does not qualify one for CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE USA.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:11 am 12:11 am
American Presidents have come from many professions and backgrounds. However inept they may have been, the country prospered. The mantra right now is change. Be careful what you ask for, you might get it.
Posted by: texasdemocrat | April 17, 2008, 12:12 am 12:12 am
I’ll bet chris matthews and keith olberman are spitting nails right now.
anderson cooper too.
all of this points to the fact that msm has let us all down.
if obama had been vetted early on and msm were not focused on “bringing Mrs.Clinton down”
you people who support him would not be so mad tonight that he was finally asked a few hard questions. and in my book-his answers only bring up more questions.
I also want to say Mr. obama said that most of the people already have decided they want what he has to offer because of his position in the polls
I take issue with that because he is in the front-not because he has the greatest plan, and he is the smartest of the two. he is in the lead because:
-he has enjoyed the black community voting for him blindly
-he has enjoyed the media giving him a pass-and villifying sen. clinton.
-and he has the benefit (sad to say this) of people not really voting for him but voting against sen. clinton
(and voting against her for all the wrong reasons)
he has the DNC pulling for him
and he has a lot of liberal money supporting him
(i wish someone would explore the insurance co. money. going his way)
and of course he has many people who truly believe in him
but for the most part-he is in the lead for all the wrong reasons.
he is not the better of the two candidates.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:14 am 12:14 am
Hillary was pittiful, as pittiful as her Bosnia story under sniper fire. She turns against Obama at every chance she gets instead of addressing real issues. No wonder she is the most disliked politician in America today. Not only can she spin she spins fast and furions as exemplified in todays debate.
Obama was gracious, and he did not even turn on her even when he was given a chance to do so about the Bosnia sniper fire stark lie of Hillary. That is a good man.
I believe, Amercians can see the difference between a purposeful liar and an honest mistake. They are smarter than Washington thinks of them to be. Once they get rid of lobbyists like the oil, pharmaceautical and AIPAC PACs America will gain back what has been hijacked by special interests for the interests of the filthy rich and for the interests of another country named Israel.
Posted by: Lauren | April 17, 2008, 12:17 am 12:17 am
jgaw, you don’t need to “bet” they’re spitting nails – they are. I watched about 10 min. of AC360 (all I could stomach), and they were already in emergency spin mode. LMAO.
Posted by: Teri B. | April 17, 2008, 12:18 am 12:18 am
jgaw ~
absolutely true!
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:19 am 12:19 am
I believe that it was a good debate. It was about time that Obama was scrutinize a little. It does show that he is not ready to be president. I hear the clamoring of the Obama fans, becaue they are not use to see the media apply a little pressure on him. He is good at speeches, but is not very good at confrontations. It is still not too late to investigate Obama nobody has botter to find out where he gets his contributions, I do not believe that he gets them from grassroots donations of nickle and dimes to the tune of 40 million a month. I just hope that the people wake up on time and realize that we are to elect a president and not an american idol.
Posted by: Arturo | April 17, 2008, 12:20 am 12:20 am
Finally, How refreshing! A totally fair & unbiased debate. I thought both Charley & George were very fair & unlike the CNN debates actually asked fair questions, gave the candidates ample time to respond. One can only wish this is where all the rest of the debates had taken place. If the Obama people are upset, it’s because your candidate never really answers the question. He always dances around or changes the subject. Nice to see both of the candidates given a fair unbiased chance to answer the questions. Great job George & Charley. I’ve been missing out by not tuning in often enough to ABC. God Job!!
Posted by: Kaye | April 17, 2008, 12:20 am 12:20 am
What are you talking about Lauren. Only time Hillary spoke against Obama was about the remarks he himself made. Other than that there was hardly anything negative she spoke. Most of her talk was her plans and ideas. Obama didn’t have a straight answer to all his controversial associations and links and thats because noone else asked him that before. In fact it was Obama who was pitiful.
Posted by: Hillary | April 17, 2008, 12:21 am 12:21 am
This debate was handled terribly by ABC and Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopolous. ABC has been my network for news for many years, but tonight they stooped to the level of FOX news in running a typically tabloid debate. Was this the night for them to see how Obama handles controversy? I, for one, am sick of all this tabloid crap.Raising issues of patriotism with someone who chooses not to wear a lapel pin and trying to associate a candidate with an individual guilty of crimes that occurred 40 years ago is typical Republican/Karl Rove campaign tactic. Wasn’t it Hillary who complained so loudly about being a victim of a “vast right-wing conspiracy.” I guess Howard Wolfson thinks that this garbage is ok when you’re losing and completely desparate to win at all costs. George Stephanopolous’ loyalty to Hillary Clinton is exactly why some of these so-called reporters should not be giving us information on the candidates, because they just can’t help injecting their personal feelings or beliefs into what they report. But, that’s probably no worse than MSNBC having the known racist, Pat Buchanan giving his conservative, brainless bent on Democrats that he so openly despises(as well as women).
Posted by: Craig | April 17, 2008, 12:24 am 12:24 am
yes, it is clear he is not ready to be president.
and for this I blame his handlers-
right now if I were him-I think i would be cussing out axelrod and co.
he has everything going for him except
he is not the one.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:28 am 12:28 am
The Washington Post writes:
It was another step downward for network news — in particular ABC News, which hosted the debate from Philadelphia and whose usually dependable anchors, Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopoulos, turned in shoddy, despicable performances.
For the first 52 minutes of the two-hour, commercial-crammed show, Gibson and Stephanopoulos dwelled entirely on specious and gossipy trivia that already has been hashed and rehashed, in the hope of getting the candidates to claw at one another over disputes that are no longer news. Some were barely news to begin with.
The fact is, cable networks CNN and MSNBC both did better jobs with earlier candidate debates. Also, neither of those cable networks, if memory serves, rushed to a commercial break just five minutes into the proceedings, after giving each candidate a tiny, token moment to make an opening statement. Cable news is indeed taking over from network news, and merely by being competent.
Gibson sat there peering down at the candidates over glasses perched on the end of his nose, looking prosecutorial and at times portraying himself as a spokesman for the working class. Blunderingly he addressed an early question, about whether each would be willing to serve as the other’s running mate, “to both of you,” which is simple ineptitude or bad manners. It was his job to indicate which candidate should answer first. When, understandably, both waited politely for the other to talk, Gibson said snidely, “Don’t all speak at once.”
Posted by: hank | April 17, 2008, 12:29 am 12:29 am
the posts here are so sad
we get the leadership we deserve- you must be the same people who supported
GWBush all these years –
Hillary already had record high negatives – that is one number that will go even higher now
Normal people are sock of the diviseness – and Sen Clinton in the first 45 minutes of this debate lost the last shred of respect I had for her
But from the comments here – many of you like fighting – and getting nowhere
Hillary Clinton will never be Presdident of this country – so you can keep it up and thankd George and the supercilious Charlie for doing their part for the republicans
Because in NOV you will have 2 republicans running against each other and John McCain will beat Hillary Clinton
And this country will have lost a chance to transform if Barack Obama was the dem nominee
ABC should be ashamed
Most people wanted to hear issues not 45 minutes of the National Enquirer — Obama showed class in not piling on Hillary
Hillary has no class
and no chance
She turns peoples stomachs
Posted by: alison | April 17, 2008, 12:31 am 12:31 am
Lauren ~
If you’re interested I can pass on some websites that better inform the American people about the strengths and weakness of both candidates. There aren’t many but they do exist and it helps to make a more informed decision when electing a person for the most important position in the country. After reading your post I can’t help but think that your main sources of information are MSM, CNN perhaps Tim Russert, Matthews, Huffington Post and numerous other Obama supporting networks. Anyway, just thought I’d throw it out there in case you were interested. But, then again, it looks like you have your mind made up.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:32 am 12:32 am
Why are Obama supporters after issues all of a sudden and not bashing Hillary? Isn’t this an issue that a presidential candidate has links, associations with people who have anti-American sentiments and are of questionable integrity?
Posted by: Hillary | April 17, 2008, 12:35 am 12:35 am
craig,
you will find plenty of loyalty to obama on cnn and msnbc, and a whole host on newspapers that are all owned by the same company.
ac360, david gergen, candy crawley,chris matthews, keith olberman,
and in the am check out andrea mitchell and micka(?) on morning joe-they will all be blaming abc, hillary, and everyone else for obama’ poor showing tonight.
and probally by tomorrow afternoon-after he and his people meet with the msm-and work out exactly how they will spin it-obama will come out and blame abc and hillary.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:35 am 12:35 am
alison,
you never had any respect for sen.clinton from the beginning-who do you think you are fooling?
the wash. post. is kennedyland
I think we can all agree
it the smart girl (hillary does not get the nomination)
we can all get ready to say
President Mccain.
obama will never get my black vote
Obama will never be POTUS
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:42 am 12:42 am
obama if he wins will not win it fair and square
he has the media, the dnc, well you know
sen. clinton has had the deck stacked against her for a long time.
if obama wins-fair will never be associated with it.
goodnight
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:46 am 12:46 am
I give Hillary A, I give Obama C+
Posted by: echo | April 17, 2008, 12:47 am 12:47 am
why was Hillary even there? this was Obama vs. ABC News, and its been a long time coming. ABC should be ashamed of itself, that was what i would expect from FOX. at least when MSNBC where unfairly attacking hillary they were doing so on actual issues like NAFTA and not “so i heard you like puppies, but you dont own one”
Posted by: Vonda | April 17, 2008, 12:53 am 12:53 am
The Obamabots are in total freak out mode tonight because the cracks in their candidates just got bigger. The American people got to see a true champion of the American people in Hillary Clinton with her commanding knowledge of an array of issues and got just [stumbling] words from Barack Obama.
Posted by: LOM | April 17, 2008, 12:54 am 12:54 am
Because she’s so negative.
Obama 2008 — Yes, WE CAN!!!
Posted by: Jackt51 -- Vietnam Vet and Proud Liberal | April 17, 2008, 12:56 am 12:56 am
Tomorrow morning we’ll wake-up to the carefully calculated, negative spin on Hillary’s VICTORY in the debate. We can thank CNN, Huffington, MSM…..for their persistent irresponsible journalism. Sadly, it may just result in an easy hand-off to the Republicans.
Hillary can rest well tonight knowing ‘her voice’ for the people was beautifully revealed.
Millions heard it…millions BELIEVE it !
good-night.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:58 am 12:58 am
This was the most pathetic debate I have ever witnessed. The first hour was spent on tabloid style gossip that had nothing to do with informing the American people about these candidates. It is apparent that ABC thinks the American public are idiots. Maybe we are to watch this travesty!
Posted by: Laurel Dean | April 17, 2008, 12:59 am 12:59 am
“This is what we do politically when we start getting behind in races, and we start going on the attack” – Senator Obama, April 15, 2008
After tonight’s debate, expect to see the Obama campaign and his supporters step up their attacks…after they are done licking their wounds.
Posted by: LOM | April 17, 2008, 1:00 am 1:00 am
Obama’s negatives are just as high as Hillary’s. But of course, the media ignore that.
The media have the highest negatives of all
YOU’RE CORRECT.I AGREE,
Posted by: NIcholas | April 17, 2008, 1:00 am 1:00 am
I just want to comment on tonight’s debate. Your debate moderators knew in exactly what order they were going to ask the questions…and they set up a debate that allowed Hillary Clinton extra time during the substantive questions in the second half while making Obama defend himself against your tabloid questions. ABC has lost all credibility. Whoever designed the above hit job should be fired from his own. There’s a fine future for him in the tabloid blogosphere.
Posted by: Dema | April 17, 2008, 1:08 am 1:08 am
The high point of this debate was when Senator Clinton stated that the Republicans, instead of pledging support to McCain, should apologize for the past 8 years and just concede to change for America with a Democrat in the White House! As Dan posted: Clinton and Obama joining hands and rising above mediocrity in moderation for the synonymous uneducated/Republicans!!
Posted by: Gibbs | April 17, 2008, 1:08 am 1:08 am
Pennsylvania might be coming up but she
is looking foolish and petty to many people who
once voted for her.
That would be me, in California.
That is not the same woman I voted for I will never
vote for her again. So she can steal the primary if
she wants but she will lose to McCain in a landslide.
Posted by: Ruth | April 17, 2008, 1:37 am 1:37 am
Obama’s negativity is as high as Hillary’s , and it might go up much higher than Hillary’s in the general election. The problem is that Obama currently gets a free ride from the media which constantly ignores his problems and ostensible mendacity. For example, Obama obviously lied about his handwriting in the questionnaire, yet ABA news just said that he forgot it. Hillary might have really forgotten about her bosnia trip yet the media treated her as if she’d robbed a bank. Obama has lied in many occasions, why doesn’t media report these? He lied in the SC debate that the relationship between him and Renzo is limited to the 5 hours of work. He lied about Rev. Wright and William Ayer…….. I feel really sick of this guy. Unfortunately I will not support the democratic party if he’s the nominee.
Posted by: Candy | April 17, 2008, 1:41 am 1:41 am
The “debate” on ABC tonight was a horror show, showcasing the absolute worst journalists have to offer the American people. Hardly ever touching on important issues the two moderators managed to make ABC look like a total ratings monger, I suppose it should really be no surprise but hopefully the little credibility the journalists and political has beens may have had prior is now shot. In a time when the mortgage crisis is ripping through America and gas prices are so high that food is becoming a luxury item for some americans ABC decides talking about misspoken words, rev wright, sniper fire, and worst question of the night, LAPEL PINS! seriously?
Posted by: sarah | April 17, 2008, 1:41 am 1:41 am
Why are Hillary’s negative ratings so high?
Maybe because she isn’t a very nice person – petty, nasty, untruthful. She certainly isn’t very likable.
Posted by: Sara | April 17, 2008, 1:42 am 1:42 am
Thank you Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopolous for a job well done. No doubt Senator Clinton won the debate. But, I also have no doubt that Charlie and George will be vilified by Obama zombies. However, I do applaud Obama for suggesting weeks ago he made a “boneheaded” move in forming a relationship with Tony Rezko,his neighbor. Now, what about Rev. Wright?
Posted by: Gary | April 17, 2008, 1:43 am 1:43 am
This is what happen when he got all the best treatments for so long and suddently he has to stand up by himself with no help from CNN,MSNBC.
All of his supporters also suffer from this . They have to face reality. It hurts.
If he want to go to the GE he has to prepare for this.
Posted by: crisis08 | April 17, 2008, 2:06 am 2:06 am
It is widely conceded this debate was a set up to make Clinton look good – intentional or not. Several negative questions could have been posed but she was only presented with Bosnia. People aren’t stupid. It appears there was some connivance with the hosts here.
Posted by: Uretha | April 17, 2008, 2:13 am 2:13 am
Thank you Charles Gibson, George S.
Good night.
Posted by: crisis08 | April 17, 2008, 2:15 am 2:15 am
Don’t trust her and she has provided all the negative evidence. People are beginning to read her. How could you have said “screw them” when it comes to white working class voters a few years ago and now present yourself as their champion? or vote for Nafta when it was on the table, and now argue against it? Or Have your husband and yourself receive $800,000.00 to get a new free trade deal 2008 to take more jobs out of America, and try to fool the unions that you are against another free trade agreement? She is full of contradictions not just the Sniper Story. I seriously believe something is wrong with her.
Posted by: Sherrie | April 17, 2008, 2:21 am 2:21 am
Congratulations ABC. Great debate! I think this is the first time that Barack Obama supporters have complained about a debate. They are not used to Barack Obama having to answer tough questions. It made them uncomfortable. They may not have liked questions concerning Wright, Ayers, or lapel pins, but these questions will surface again if Obama would happen to win the nomination. He will have to face John McCain. And the questions will only get worse.
But there were certainly other topics in the debate too. They both had to answer questions concerning the economy, taxes, foreign policy concerns, Iraq troop withdrawal plans, etc. I am glad to see that these questions were asked.
Hillary Clinton clearly won this debate. She has such an enormous grasp and comprehension of the issues that face our country — both foreign and domestic. She offers workable solutions. Barack Obama really isn’t ready to be president. He just doesn’t have enough experience. It showed tonight.
It is really shameful that the MSM has portrayed Hillary Clinton in such a negative light. They have gone to such extremes to discredit her and attack her relentlessly. She is by far the best person to lead our country out of the complete mess it is in. Hopefully Hillary Clinton will prevail and win this nomination.
Posted by: justice prevails | April 17, 2008, 2:30 am 2:30 am
ABC should be embarrassed about this debate. No questions on real issues for almost the first hour …. flag pin? really? How old is that? This was about the dirty “politics” as usual, only the instigators were the debate “moderators”. The reason Obama didn’t do well in this debate is that he wants to stay positive and focus on the issues. He wouldn’t even pile on Hillary’s Bosnia lie. He actually made an excuse for her. Hillary on the other hand …. this is what her campaign is about.
Now for Gibson and particularly Stephanopolous how do you have a debate in Pennsylvania and not talk free trade!!! Both campaigns had advisors that got into trouble, but Hillary’s top campaign stategist getting paid by the Columbian government to lobby to have the trade bill she supposedly is against passed. Though demoted, he is still working on her campaign!!! Didn’t think that was as important to the everyday people of Pennsylvania as whether Obama wears a flag lapel pin.
I’ve seen bad debates before but I don’t think I’ve seen one this bad where it was all about the moderators trying to “catch” the candidate rather than facilitating debate.
Posted by: Mark | April 17, 2008, 3:06 am 3:06 am
I am glad they both admitted they both could win against McCain,naturally she would say she was the better candidate. at least they both admitted they would support the nominee. this is a start in uniting the party for victory in November.
Posted by: merle7 | April 17, 2008, 3:30 am 3:30 am
I have yet to see John McCain wear a flag pin, our war hero POW.
Posted by: merle7 | April 17, 2008, 3:34 am 3:34 am
Always truthful,idealistic and honorable champion of the disadvantaged Hillary and negative perceptions about her?Hard to explain. However,the real conundrum is the erstwhile objective and honorable journalists Gibson and Stephanopoulos stooping to lowly Clinton lackeys.
Posted by: alex g chronis | April 17, 2008, 3:46 am 3:46 am
All I know is the Dems are screwed. McCain doesn’t have to raise a cent now. There’s no way either Hillary or Obama can win now. Thanks ABC!
Posted by: kevin of RI | April 17, 2008, 4:24 am 4:24 am
What a shame! That’s when I miss Peter Jennings. To spend an hour on rehashing the same words, what a waste! We all know she lied, what’s the point to spend 15 min on it? What a shame to take “bitter” statement out of context yet again. What a disgrace! As if there were no serious issues to discuss other than what we’ve heard a million times. Shame on ABC!
Posted by: alindra | April 17, 2008, 4:35 am 4:35 am
what a waste of time nothing on the the real issues just rehashing the same old “stuff” we knows she lies and we know about rev wright so what new??? all hill talked about what she did in the 90′s well this is a new era get over it and move on.
Posted by: michelle | April 17, 2008, 5:28 am 5:28 am
This is the worst “so-called” debate that I have ever witnessed. The moderators, G. Stephanopoulos and C. Gibson, were petty, un-professional and sickeningly appalling. If you are going to throw mud then throw it at the both of them and not just at one.
I am so turned off at ABC for allowing this that I no longer care to tune into any of their Network or Local news broadcasts.
We lost a lot when we lost Peter Jennings, like integrity!
Posted by: Anthony | April 17, 2008, 5:43 am 5:43 am
ABC’s Tabloid Debate is vying with Fox News — Stephanopolous got his debate coaching from Sean Hannity! Asking questions impossible for a candidate to give a satisfactory answer (“Does Rev. Wright love America as much as you?”…”Oh you don’t love America more than Rev. Wright?!” vs. “So you’re saying that Rev. Wright doesn’t love America?…”) is lousy journalism and an insult to your viewers.
Posted by: k miller | April 17, 2008, 6:56 am 6:56 am
This debate was the worst one ever.It was plain to see that George and Charles are supporters of Hilary.This was tabloid garbage.I will not watch another debate on ABC.
Posted by: eleanor | April 17, 2008, 7:24 am 7:24 am
ABC, has just lost me as a viewer.
Posted by: eleanor | April 17, 2008, 7:26 am 7:26 am
Your unprofessional and biased attempt to broker a professional and unbiased presidential debate has coverted me from fan of ABC to cable news. Shame on you ABC for pitting the candidates against each other in a an attempt to re-hash the already hashed in an attempt to broker ratings. What about the CUSTOMER who has been begging to hear more on the issues??? As Dr. Phil would say, “how did that work for ya?” Sounds like it’s time again for ABC to schedule some CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING because you are obviously, painfuly out of touch.
Posted by: elitist-too | April 17, 2008, 7:52 am 7:52 am
I was already skeptical going into the debate given that George S. was a moderator, with clear ties to the Clinton Family. Everyone should have saw that coming.
Last night was a disgrace to American media and the American people. ABC News is an embarrassment.
Posted by: Cory | April 17, 2008, 8:01 am 8:01 am
This debate did little to inform voters on the issues that are important. I was very disappointed that the ABC researchers did not read the positions of each candidate and formulate questions of substance rather than just grabbing headlines from the tabloids. If you thought you could get ratings by stirring old controversies, you do not respect your audience. No wonder ABC news is behind cable networks. Tim Russet, Chris Matthews and Jim Lehrer are so much better at hosting debates that ABC should be looking for new talent.
Posted by: Michaele | April 17, 2008, 8:03 am 8:03 am
The first hour of this debate was absolutely terrible. I would have liked to see Sam Donaldson with George S. as moderators, instead of Charlie. I think then the debate would have brought out more of the real issues.
Posted by: pt | April 17, 2008, 8:04 am 8:04 am
Jake
Although I don’t always agree with you…you should have run that debate last night.
Posted by: dl | April 17, 2008, 8:10 am 8:10 am
Based on the comments in this forum, Mrs. Clinton did better than Mr. Obama. Hardcore supporters will remain loyal but undecided voters will be affected. The “screw em’ comment wasn’t mentioned. Since it wasn’t directed @ PA voters, it’s less relevant. The Wright issue still gets attention. The relevance is that children were in the pews during the tirades. Such sermons are unsuitable for impressionable minors. It will get more attention during the GE. The promise to withdraw from Iraq, regardless of circumstance, will also be difficult to explain. It sounds good, but isn’t feasible. I think Mr. McCain was the real winner.
Posted by: texasdemocrat | April 17, 2008, 8:11 am 8:11 am
GREAT DEBATE…. I would say the best one we’ve had so far!!! Again, Hillary proved that she’s the ONE better prepared to lead… She also, once again, spoke with great calm and composure… That’s a stoical woman! Obama was nervoous throughout most of the debate.. as usual.. As for those “negatives”, I do NOT care…
Posted by: DMK | April 17, 2008, 8:13 am 8:13 am
I think the debate was a total farce with no substance except wanting more on the controversies surounding the candidates. One controversary pont that i would like to see answered rthat NOBODY has asked is of Sen. Clinton. The question is, “the certainty of of her memory regarding the Bosnia issue, she is so sure this fabrication occured and it was her slip of her memory about it being in Bosnia. Well if she is so certain of the story, just where did it occur? Or is this truely just a fabrication in every way?
Posted by: Lou | April 17, 2008, 8:14 am 8:14 am
I always watch ABC, Charlie Gibson is our modern day Walter Cronkite, and carrying on very well in Peter Jennings footsteps. Geo. has a very balanced program on-This Week-which comes on sunday am.
If obama is as clean as his supporters dream he is-he can stand a little vetting.
When some of the obama supporters complaining now about abc-complain about chris matthews, chuck todd, keith olberman, and all of the cast of CNN.
then we can talk. Because I have never read by any obama supporters-any complaints about we have are not getting the issues discussed because of the time they are spending on sen. clintons bosnia sniper fire comments.
Obama has the msm, the dnc, and all the money in behind him-and especially the media. you would not be saying obama had it hard last night if the msm had been doing its job all along.
We have seen the msm and the obama camp cannot be fair
and you obama fans have not said a word-if anything when it is sen. clinton and some non-issue about her-you cannot get enough fo the non-issue stuff.
so now that someone is doing what should have been done all along you have your backs up.
you cannot have it both ways.
but from here on out try to be fair and balanced. if you now want to talk issues
lets talk issues. and stop asking sen. clinton to talk about monica, and all of those non-issues. bill clinton had a trial on the national stage. tried and convicted- and now most of you want cont to try sen. clinton on it.
so lets stay with the issues-because this IS where sen. clinton shines the most. so, if you want to talk issues-
give obama a while to get up on issues.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:15 am 8:15 am
I am looking at the vote results (Who won the debate?) and I am laughing hysterically…. The majority thinks Obama won.. Yeah right!! The Obama campaign has instructed its loyal “bots” to keep checking his name… I watched the debate, AND even if I wasn’t a Hillary supporter, I would still say that SHE won the debate…
Posted by: DMK | April 17, 2008, 8:20 am 8:20 am
What was the point of a debate when the candidates weren’t asked to debate but rather duck slime, mostly aimed at one candidate? i’ve never been a fan the debate format anyway but last night was apparently a new low. Tele-journalism has really gone down since Edward Murrow hasn’t it? Gresham’s Law, I guess.
Posted by: John Shreffler | April 17, 2008, 8:21 am 8:21 am
George S. worked for Bill Clinton and this was supposed to be a fair debate. and all of the stupid questions, Obama could have just stayed home and watched it, they didn’t ask anything that would help with the problems out there…
Posted by: Bill | April 17, 2008, 8:21 am 8:21 am
I guess ABC is free to what it wants in this primary race. But the bias yesterday night was clear for everyone to see. The flag pin and Ayers question were incredible tabloid (or blog, LOL) stuff.
But most telling proof of what this all was about:
DURING THE DEBATE WE WERE SHOWN EIGHT CLOSE-UPS OF CHELSEA CLINTON!!
Propaganda tactics.
And yet, Hillary was able to shoot herself in her 2 feet again. She had the PERFECT opportunity to act as if she were an honest politician by defending her colleague Obama against ABC’s attacks. And yet – she was so dumb and mean to participate in the attacks (her TRUE honesty, I guess). All she gets now will be the backlash.
Good for her.
Posted by: ken | April 17, 2008, 8:22 am 8:22 am
lou, just proved my point, so lou did not want the issues talked about he wanted the first forty minutes to be talked about to Sen. Clinton on the Bosnia sniper fire-remark.
so it would not have been a farce if they had done last night to Sen.Clinton,
what chris matthews, cnn, msnbc and other all along-which really equals giving obama a pass.
he should have been vetted long ago.
if he had been we all know he would not hbe in the lead. and now his supporters do not want to hear anymore, why?
lou does not what issues-lou wants controversy surrounding sen. clinton, why?
try to be fair-you will live longer-you’ll keep your blood pressure down.
you cannot just want to cook up non issues about sen. clinton-and not expect some vetting of your guy.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:24 am 8:24 am
I remember the debates between Gore and Bush and almost every debate it was declared that Bush was the winner. Well america was the loser.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:25 am 8:25 am
Honest, Hillary is by far the better candidate. It just eludes me why obama people are voting for him!!
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:27 am 8:27 am
I still believe the media is wanting Obama, because they will get more mileage from him. He will simply screw up more and they can write more stories about him.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:29 am 8:29 am
Hillary’s negatives are high due to the media and there on going responses to negative facts and comments about her. Obama has them to, but due to race card, people leave it alone , afraid to be called racist. Obama is buying this election! He has the money to pay more supporters to get out the negative. He has made grave mistakes in his life ones that can and will affect the American people. Wait and see!
Posted by: jp,michigan | April 17, 2008, 8:38 am 8:38 am
honest,
Everybody has been fawning over how well obama speaks.
and to compare Sen. Clinton to Annie Oakley is a compliment.
Annie Oakley was a great lady.
she was given some trouble once.
when a young upstart of a shooter
tried to smear annie Oakley.
the upstart was found out-and sent packing And Annie Oakley continued her great career (that’ a true story-go look it up)
So obama comparing Sen. Clinton to Annie Oakley-may end up being prophetic also.
and once again obama supporters you want to talk about the issues that face us now-lets talk about them.
it is the obama supports this am talking about everything except the issues.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:38 am 8:38 am
DMK
sometimes people judge a debate on how someone answers hard questions…
I think most of America watched that debate and …no matter who you supported …anyone could see it didn’t smell right… I heard from several friends at the networks and newspapers (who are Hillary and McCain backers and even they) they said the debate seemed a little fishy they had to admit. For whatever reason…
and I think America looks with all of that “pile-on” and crap thrown at Obama last night not only did it seem biased and off topic for a Prsidential debate …but Obama handled himself impressively considering all the tabloid crap that was thrown.
Hillary won the debate if you didn’t notice a leaning toward attacks on Obama (how many times did Charlie Gibson apologize to sen Clinton after asking Obama about some scandal issue that has been beaten…and asked Clinton one of those “baggage” quesrtions that even she referred to at the end of the debate)…Obama doesn’t play that way and America knows it.
Posted by: dl | April 17, 2008, 8:41 am 8:41 am
I think the questions were asked to shed light on issues that would be brought up for the general election. If you don’t like the questions now, you are really not going to like them coming from the republicans.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:47 am 8:47 am
if the msm had been doing its job and being fair and balanced vetting both candidates equally-last night would not have smelled fishy.
It only seemed strange because everyone has gotten use to the media giving obama a pass. they know that has been the tone of the rest of the networks and cable.
Once again if the media had not been piling it on trying to bring sen. clinton down all along-last night would not have been fishy.
and all of the media people and obama supporter trying to spin again for obama
are mad because they have just had a mirror held up to their face.
no matter what comes out about obama-or how he does not know the issues-and copies sen. clinton on the issues.
the msm always tries to turn it on sen. clinton. just as they will do now.
and if you obama people and msm didn’t but know it-the more you pile it on to sen. clinton-the better you make her look-because fair minded people-who keep their own counsel-can see what is going on.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:51 am 8:51 am
There’s been numerous references to Jake being biased and in HIllary’s court. Wrong ! I’ve been checking into this sight the entire season and CLEARLY JAKE is not in favor of Hillary (look at the timeliness of the current post….right after the debate began). I check in here so I don’t formulate my opinions in a vacuum, It’s “comfortable” to stay on sites where HIllary is primarily supported or for others to watch CNN, MSM , read Huffington….and watch their man Obama elevated night after night….day after day. I appreciate Tapper for diving a little deeper into the headlines. I don’t always like his persistent scrutiny of Hillary, or the Hillary camp.. Bill, etc but so be it. I know that I am better informed about all the candidates after I’ve checked into Punch and therefore believe my vote is a well-informed vote. Thanks, Jake.
HILLARY ’08
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 8:56 am 8:56 am
The same voters that voted for Bush will vote for obama. My children will never have a good future.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 9:00 am 9:00 am
Today I was listening to public broadcast radio and the discussion pertained to the days of only three networks reporting the news. These networks were respectable and people believed in them. And as the program went on to say, that is not the case today, more people watch American Idol than the major news network combined. The type of journalism I observed last night on ABC was very disturbing and explains why people are looking elsewhere to get the real news. This was not a debate of issues or policies, it was a debate that George S. used in an attempt to help his friend Hillary gain votes. My grandparents and parents would turn over in their graves to see how ABC has lowered their standards to those of Fox News. Wearing a flag pin on one’s lapel doesn’t demonstrate patriotism…how one conducts themselves does. I can imagine our founding father’s disgust at the unpatriotic use of such a patriotic venue to enhance ABC’s own political agenda. This debate was held in a very unprofessional manner and disrectable to viewers who took time out of their busy lives to learn more about the issues and policies each candidate stood for but instead got rehashing of old issues. Shame on you ABC…you were the network my grandparents and parents trusted when they were living and I had followed in their footsteps. Your reputation will forever be tarnished in my eyes because of this debate. I have lost respect for you and can no longer trust your reporting as being the truth, your network will no longer be welcomed in my home.
Posted by: Lynn | April 17, 2008, 9:01 am 9:01 am
and one more point, if you have been watching geo. step. program on sunday mornings-you will see-He does not give Sen. Clinton a pass.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 9:02 am 9:02 am
I THINK IT IS INTERESTING TO SEE HOW THE OBAMA CAMPAIN IS WHINING ABOUT THE DEBATE LAST NIGHT. THE OBAMA SUPPORTERS HAVE BEEN BRAINWASHED BY MSNBC’S CHRIS MATTHEWS AND KIETH OBERMAN AND CREW, AS WELL AS SO THE SELF PROCLAIMED BEST POLITICAL TEAM IN TV’S CNN CREW OTHER THAN LOU DOBBS. HILLARY CLINTON HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO ATTACKS SINCE THE BEGINING OF THIS ELECTION SEASON BY THE BIG CABLE NEWS OUTLETS, AND OBAMA HAS BEEN THE BENEFICIARY TO THE MOST ONE SIDED FAVORABLE COVERAGE I HAVE EVER SEEN IN ELECTION COVERAGE.I THINK SENATOR CLINTON ACTUALLY LET OBAMA OFF THE HOOK LAST NIGHT AS SHE COULD HAVE REALLY DUG IN AND ATTACKED HIM, BUT SHE CHOSE NOT TO.HE THEN TRIED TO DEFLECT THE ATTENTION TO HER SEVERAL TIMES LAST NIGHT WHENEVER HE WAS ASKED A TOUGH QUESTION AND UNFOTUNATLY HE CHANGED TOPIC AND SPEWED RHETORIC ALL NIGHT AGAIN.I WAS ANNOYED BY HIM AS HE TRIED TO ACCUSE HER OF ATTACKING HIM ALL WEEK FOR COMMENTS THAT “OBAMA MADE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS” AND WHERE RELEASED BY ONE OF HIS OWN FUNDRAISER’S, AND HE STILL REFUSED TO ISSUE A PUBLIC APOLOGY BY SAYING TWO LITTLE WORDS “IM SORRY” JUST LIKE SENATOR CLINTON SAID LAST NIGHT ABOUT BOSNIA.HE NEEDS TO BE SCRUTINIZED AND IT SHOWS THAT HE WILL NOT BE READY WHEN THE REPUBLICANS CONTINUE ATTACKING HIM THRU THE ELECTION SEASON WHICH JOHN MCCAIN HAS PROMISED HE WILL CONITNUE TO DO.HE SNICKERED AT HER ALL WEEK CALLING HER ANNIE OAKLEY AND IS OUTSPENDING HER NOW 5-1 IN PENNSYLVANIA/INDIANA AND I FEEL AS A CLINTON SUPPORTER THAT HER KNOWLEDGE OF EVERY TOPIC POSED TO HER IS SO IN TUNE WITH THIS COUNTRY’S NEEDS THAT IT WOULD BE A TERRIBLE MISTAKE NOT TO APPOINT HER TO TAKE ON JOHN MCCAIN. HE WILL CERTAINLY BE A FORMIDABLE APPONENT AND BELIEVE ME EXPERIENCE WILL MATTER IN THIS ELECTION. IN CLOSING I APPLAUD YOU FOR THE GREAT JOB ABC DID WITH THIS DEBATE AND HOPE IN THE FUTURE YOU WILL DO MORE DEBATES. THANK YOU ABC, ERNIE ROKOSE MANCHESTER, NJ
Posted by: ERNIE | April 17, 2008, 9:19 am 9:19 am
cause she’s losing and she’s on the attack
Posted by: cordelia525 | April 17, 2008, 9:24 am 9:24 am
OBVIOUSLELY LYNN IS OUT OF TOUCH AND DOES NOT UNDERSTAND THE MEDIA THAT YOUR GRANDPARENTS WOULD TURN OVER IN THEIR GRAVES IF THEY SAW WOULD BE MSNBC OR CNN’S COVERAGE.I SAW SIMON OF AMERICAN IDOL COMPARE TODAYS COVERAGE BY THESE MEDIA MOGULS TO HIS OWN SHOW AND HE SAID THAT OUR ELECTION TODAY IS TAKING ON THE SAME LOOK OF AMERICAN IDOL
Posted by: ERNIE | April 17, 2008, 9:27 am 9:27 am
WELL SAID MY COUNTRY!
Posted by: ERNIE | April 17, 2008, 9:45 am 9:45 am
It is funny that Hilary is not far left enough for the libs that they support Obama that tels no truths who is the most Marxist!
Posted by: spock | April 17, 2008, 10:04 am 10:04 am
Why in the world is Senator Obama being condemned for not wearing a flag pin? Does Hillary wear one? NO! Does the war hero and POW McCain wear one? NO! So, what is the probem? Why aren’t Hillary and the war hero not being condemned for NOT wearing flag pins? Or is it that ONLY Senator Obama has to PROVE HIS PATIOTISM? He is an American citizen and he definitely loves his country! The flag pin is a none issue. How many of your wear flag pins? I doubt 99.9 percent of the population do NOT wear one!! I think the media needs to drop this issue entirely; however, if the want to keep coming back to it, why don’t you ask Hillary and McCain, the war hero, why thet do NOT wear flag pins?
“It is funny that Hilary is not far left enough for the libs that they support Obama that tels no truths who is the most Marxist!”
Next time, try making your post in Engrish please.
Please, it’s irrelevant how far left or right she says she is. We don’t support her because whatever position she takes, we’ll never know if its actually the truth she’s telling. It’s practically a family sport with these folks. That’s why the media jumps on everything she says “Hillary just said the sky is blue… Better look that one up, just to make sure…”
I just have to laugh at Hillary supporters, the so called “Archie Bunker” types, and the angry, old Feminists, and of course, the good old, “fear of a black man” stalwarts. Quite amazing, they are. All fired up in their support of her, regardless of the fact that there is no way in purgatory that she can win the General. No Way! Do you understand this fact? No way! I have got to suspect that most of her supporters that vehemently believe that she can win are those who also believe in time travel. She will magically transport all of us back to the 90s, with the same economic and political conditions. She’s on record as intending to bring back the same players from that time, so obviously she believe this as well. Fortunately, most Americans don’t believe in time travel, and know that she has absolutely no chance, (just like her electoral chances), of achieving most of her campaign promises. Actually, I have to thank ABC, after watching that debate, it is clear now that if Hillary somehow manages to wrest the nomination from Obama, that the Republicans will be once again in full control of both houses and the White House. Why? Because it’s better to select and vote for ACTUAL Republicans that it is to choose a fake one. And Hillary is indeed a fake! I also believe that most of the supporters that blog on her behalf, (outside of her normal delusional supporters), are fellow Republicans who will take great joy in watching her go down in flaming defeat and finally rid the political landscape of the Clinton’s and their ilk!
Hillary dominates Philadelphia focus group. “NYDIA HAN: The real take away is this. We now know who won the debate according to our focus group. Take a look. Senator Clinton is the debate winner, at least according to our focus group. 23% believe Senator Obama won while 50% believed Senator Clinton won.” [WPVI Post-Debate Analysis, 4/16/08]
ABC News’ Rick Klein – ‘Clinton is back to the strong presence we saw early in the cycle.’ [ABC News Political Radar, 4/16/08]
NBC News’ Chuck Todd – Obama ‘did not have a good night.’ [MSNBC Post-Debate Analysis, 4/16/08]
NBC News’ Chuck Todd—Obama’s answer on Ayers and the flag ‘were simply weak.’ “His answer on Ayers and the flag question were simply weak; He seemed unprepared for them; Kinda surprising because he normally has a decent rant against “old politics” and yet “old politics” questions seemed to stump him.” [NBC First Read, 4/16/08]
The Atlantic’s Marc Ambinder – [T]here’s no way Obama could fared worse. [The Atlantic’s Marc Ambinder, 4/16/08]
Washington Post’ Chris Cillizza — Obama ‘struggled quite a bit’ when asked about Rev. Wright. “…He struggled quite a bit more when asked to answer for Wright, his former pastor.” [Washington Post, The Fix, 4/16/08]
New York Times’ Katharine Seeyle: Hillary’s ‘in her element as she goes into details.’ “She’s becoming expansive, seemingly in her element as she goes into details; Mr. Obama does not look as thrilled to be still standing there.” [New York Times, The Caucus, 4/16/08]
Talking Points Memo’s Josh Marshall – Hillary ‘certainly seems more self-assured.’ “She certainly seems more self-assured on the Iran question than Obama did. The question of extending an American security umbrella to Israel is very dicey. And he could clearly see he was on delicate territory.” [Talking Points Memo, 4/16/08]
Philadelphia Inquirer blog – ‘Obama is again less certain, and rambles a bit.’ “Obama is again less certain, and rambles a bit when asked about the Washington D.C. gun ban. Gibson asks him to deny that he has ever advocated a complete ban on hand guns in 1996. Obama says no. But whatever the truth, no other answer is possible.” [Philadelphia Inquirer Blog, 4/16/08]
NBC News’ Matthew Berger – Obama ‘tried to have it both ways’ with Israel. “Obama’s answer on an Iranian attack on Israel tried to seem to have it both ways: highlight his support for Israel but not lock him into treating an attack on Israel like an attack on the U.S. But it may have looked more like a no because it wasn’t a firm yes. Clinton’s answer seemed more direct.” [NBC First Read, 4/16/08]
Posted by: DMK | April 17, 2008, 3:07 pm 3:07 pm
Same old business as usual. People taking sides based on biases, predudice, offiliation, etc. WAKE UP!!! We must get past trivial nonsense and move on to higher thinking. Does anyone out there believe this kind of behavior will get them to heaven? I believe Senator Obama is going to be our next President, ordained by God. I just pray no harm will come to this wonderful man, which is the history in this country. What an embarassment. If any thing does happen to him it will proven what we already know; the intimidation some show towards a particular person or sect of people, who have never done anything to compare to what has been done to them, continue to experience maltreatment. So what would be their argument for objecting besides the obviuos?
Why do I think her negatives are so high? How much time have you got?
Posted by: Tom J | April 17, 2008, 6:01 pm 6:01 pm
i really believe that it is a sad state of affairs when elections in this great country come down to who can smear whom.senators clinton and obama are both an asset to the democratic party. i am saddened that senator clinton has stooped so low as to attack senator obama at all costs. senator obama handled himself very well in last night’s debate by not rising to the bait and attacking senator clinton at every opportunity. sentor clinton’s desperation is showing by the amount of attacks that she is levelling at obama. i am sick of the garbage from each canidate. tell me what can you do for someone like me who was forced to go on disability because of injury and not able to work. tell me how you propose to make a way for me to live on $700 monthly with cost of living skyrocketing and my income not able to meet the demands. i could care less about reverend wright, he’s already been explained. talk to me about issues that mean something besides silly political posturing.
Email
CPAC: Romney Struggles to Convince Voters 
Obama Backs Off Birth Control Battle?
Prepare for a record high when thia “screw em” comment hit the airwaves
Posted by: Vanessa | April 16, 2008, 8:22 pm 8:22 pm
wHEN DO we hear about what they think on the issues? Just keep asking about bitterness or what’s been said in the past. What do they think about how to resolve some important issues????
Posted by: Linda mARLEY | April 16, 2008, 8:23 pm 8:23 pm
Sen Obama plays “dodgeball” and never answers direct questions with direct answers.The owner of BET today said that Obama is only running for President because of his race.He says he was not present the time Rev.Wright made derogatory remarks !!! He says that he was a member of his church for 20 years !!! Please !!Patriotism!!!!!I am afraid of the people he will have around him in the Oval Office..
Posted by: Patty | April 16, 2008, 8:42 pm 8:42 pm
Obama really flubbed the patriotism question. Man, than guy is humorless.
Posted by: geevill | April 16, 2008, 8:49 pm 8:49 pm
Why are these candidates tolerating this inane series of questions that have virtually nothing to do with the Presidency? Reverend Wright will have no impact on the impending Depression. Absence of true sniper fire in Bosnia will not make Sunni and Shia put aside their road side bombs and pending genocide.
If Hilary and Obama had true courage they would join hands and blow off these moderators who are asking questions that only the uneducated and Republicans should care about.
Posted by: Dan | April 16, 2008, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
Why are these candidates tolerating this inane series of questions that have virtually nothing to do with the Presidency? Reverend Wright will have no impact on the impending Depression. Absence of true sniper fire in Bosnia will not make Sunni and Shia put aside their road side bombs and pending genocide.
If Hilary and Obama had true courage they would join hands and blow off these moderators who are asking questions that only the uneducated and Republicans should care about.
Posted by: Dan | April 16, 2008, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
This is the worst debate I have seen on TV. The narrators of the debate are leading with sensationalistic questions making the debate a waste of one’s time. Very disappointing. Let’s talk issues.
Posted by: Marilyn | April 16, 2008, 8:51 pm 8:51 pm
Obama’s negatives are just as high as Hillary’s. But of course, the media ignore that.
The media have the highest negatives of all!
Posted by: Karen | April 16, 2008, 8:53 pm 8:53 pm
The story on this debate seems to be the horrible job being done by the ABC questioners. Obviously there concern is to generate a sound bite that will play well. They have spent 45 minutes asking trying to play “gotta” with the candidates. I feel that it is inept – shallow – people such as these two ABC questioners who do so much to demean the entire process. I just pray that the American public is not as stupid as these ABC people think we are and that indeed we care more about what these two would do as president than how well they can respond to their (at least in their own minds) slick questions.
Posted by: Jim | April 16, 2008, 8:56 pm 8:56 pm
Sen. Obama, as the president of the United States you are to put the country first always. We all make mistakes and as president I don’t think your going to not make mistakes but I am fearful that should I make comments about your performance on any subject that I will be labeled a racist and every issue of contention will become a race issue. If you are aware that you cant control the team around you and certainly not the public opinion are you really putting the country first above your own personal gain?
Posted by: Leo | April 16, 2008, 8:56 pm 8:56 pm
Jake,
Her negatives are high because it’s unbecoming for women to seek positions of power so there’s a double standard no matter what she does. Any women seeking the Presidency is going to be scrutinized 2-3 times more than any man. I also think people give Obama points for being black. Racism is extremely pernicious in this country so it’s payback time.
However, women who vote for Clinton because she’s a woman (are there? I think people vote for who they think will be the best President) are criticized whereas people who vote for Obama because he’s black are not criticized. There are many people who give him leeway because he’s the first viable black candidate for the Presidency.
Posted by: donna darko | April 16, 2008, 9:00 pm 9:00 pm
Media bias, mostly. They are apparently being paid by the Obama Campaign particularly Chris Mathews & even my normal favorite, Kieth Obermann of MSNBC. FOX wants Obama cause they know he will be beat by Mc Cain, which we can’t afford. Obama is like Carter, and will be a single term President, and we need Clinton for 8.
Posted by: Joe Bowker | April 16, 2008, 9:01 pm 9:01 pm
PS
I have decided the best thing I can do to keep my sense of what this terribly important presidential campaign is REALLY about is to turn off this event which Gibson and Stepenopolis have run into the ground.
Posted by: Jim | April 16, 2008, 9:02 pm 9:02 pm
I do not believe that Hillary has any where near the negative remarks against her that B.O. has against him, unles you count the news media they are the unfair people in this whole election process! But I am not worried because the ones who make up all of the lies and cruel remarks about Hillary will be sorry soon because SHE WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT! We really need her and she is in it to win it and she will. Sincerely, Judi – Warren, Michigan
Posted by: Judi Smith | April 16, 2008, 9:02 pm 9:02 pm
“The story on this debate seems to be the horrible job being done by the ABC questioners.”
Thanks, Jim! It’s not on out here until later, and I’ve decided to watch John Stewart instead.
Posted by: Belle Starr | April 16, 2008, 9:03 pm 9:03 pm
Clintons negatives are high because she has turned into the Karl Rove of the Democratic party. Her underhanded, dishonest attacks are shameful to all Democrats. She is now stooping to the same level of those who so unfairly tried to keep her and and husband from accomplishing important work for so many years, and deep inside she must feel very ashamed of herself.
Posted by: kathy | April 16, 2008, 9:08 pm 9:08 pm
“particularly Chris Mathews & even my normal favorite, Kieth Obermann of MSNBC.”
I can still hardly believe the horrible change in Keith Olbermann — he even LOOKS different, and not in a good way. You don’t suppose they’re actually being drugged or threatened or electronically altered in some way?
Posted by: Belle Starr | April 16, 2008, 9:09 pm 9:09 pm
C-Span should host the debates because the networks are threatened by an informed citizenry.
Posted by: Millie | April 16, 2008, 9:16 pm 9:16 pm
Yes, commentators are doing an embarrassing job. Asking ridiculous questions that have very little to do with policy. The should both be ashamed to call themselves journalists and ABC should be ashamed of itself for stooping to the level of Fox News. Clinton needs to stop the underhanded tactics–that is why her negatives are so high.
Posted by: mary | April 16, 2008, 9:16 pm 9:16 pm
I am done with abc after this debate
Posted by: steve | April 16, 2008, 9:21 pm 9:21 pm
Wow. Could this debate be any more biased? The entire first 40 minutes was harping on Obama’s supposed guilt by association.
Posted by: VVO | April 16, 2008, 9:25 pm 9:25 pm
Yikes! Looks like Mr. Gibbson took Obama’s pillow away.
Posted by: Zach | April 16, 2008, 9:25 pm 9:25 pm
Obama is the front runner and the questions posed are to answer the questions of the right wingers.
Posted by: zz | April 16, 2008, 9:28 pm 9:28 pm
I have never seen a worst debate. What is this with not talking about the issue’s, in the first hour. Terrible questions that have been beat to death. I have watched most of the debates that were held but this one is a waste of my time. I have nor respect for who ever decided to use this agenda. Beverly
Posted by: Beverly | April 16, 2008, 9:28 pm 9:28 pm
I have never seen a worst debate. What is this with not talking about the issue’s, in the first hour. Terrible questions that have been beat to death. I have watched most of the debates that were held but this one is a waste of my time. I have nor respect for who ever decided to use this agenda. Beverly
Posted by: Beverly | April 16, 2008, 9:28 pm 9:28 pm
I applaud Obama for being above the fray and not going after Hillary for the Bosnia incident after being questioned about it.
Posted by: karma | April 16, 2008, 9:32 pm 9:32 pm
I believe the problem may be that the “celebrity” journalists are just lazy. They either dont have the time or inclination to do their homework – (even with the staff support that I am sure they have.) And they confuse a “hard” question with an “embarrassing” question. They should be pressing each candidate with their policy positions or leadership styles but this would mean they would have to dig into the far less sexy world of the issues. If this were done right it could be of value to the electorate and it could also be engaging
TV! But no matter how profound they try to look their demeanor does not put much of a veneer over the frivolity of their questions. But our wonderful 24/7 “news” media and people like these two on ABC will continue to focus on Clinton’s Bosnia, and Obama’s Wright. If they think George Bush embarrasses us before the world (and certainly I do) I wonder if they realize how they are a source of embarrassment for us with anyone from outside the US who would watch this debate given the fact that they spent time in this debate focusing on the serious question before the US: Should candidates for the presidency wear flag lapel pins!! how others from outside our country would think about us spending time on a presidential debate talking about lapel pins!!!!!
Posted by: Jim | April 16, 2008, 9:33 pm 9:33 pm
it’s so high, because the media made it so high.
I’m sick of the media, especially ABC.
I remember very cleary, how Bush won the presidency.
Posted by: golfgirlusa | April 16, 2008, 9:46 pm 9:46 pm
I know that Bill Clinton was the best President in the last fourty years and his wife is twice as smart so IMO she is the wright person for the job.
Posted by: Bishop | April 16, 2008, 9:50 pm 9:50 pm
Dude, sorry to crash your blog, but that debate tonight was THE WORST! Who wrote the questions, Karl Rove? JEEZ!
Posted by: Nashville_fan | April 16, 2008, 9:51 pm 9:51 pm
This is where rank sexism kicks in in our society. Obama gets points for being “pugnacious” (CBS New) for his attack on Hillary, but Hillary loses points on likeability for her attacks on Obama. She can’t win either way.
You’ve all heard it before. Women that are perceived as having power are also perceived as being b—-hs.
========================================
Barack Obama, the wizard of Bittergate!
========================================
Posted by: WestCoastMessenger | April 16, 2008, 9:51 pm 9:51 pm
It’s not the media. A lot of us are just sick of the Clinton’s and their bully tactics. No more please.
Posted by: molly | April 16, 2008, 9:51 pm 9:51 pm
Why Obama can attack Hillary, and Hillary even can not attack back?
Remember last year at the beginning of the campaign, Obama fooled people that, if Hillary is elected, their life is at most as good as the Bill Clinton’s time. He wants to bring better life to America.
That’s attack.
when Obama said Hillary is status quo, that’s attack.
Posted by: golfgirlusa | April 16, 2008, 9:55 pm 9:55 pm
The media’s tried very hard to make Hillary look bad, and they’ve done everything to achieve that. That’s why her negatives are high.
Posted by: zhengli | April 16, 2008, 9:57 pm 9:57 pm
NO pillow for you! Wow, Obama gave the worst debate performance I have ever seen. Hillary cleaned his clocked and then some. Obama never smiler, what a bitter man.
Posted by: geevill | April 16, 2008, 9:59 pm 9:59 pm
Every time when I watched debate live, I admire Hillary so much. She is so smart, so substantive, so quick responsive, so decisive. But after that, I read news online, the media twisted the words, and made Hillary look bad.
Clearly, tonight, When asked the question whether Obama can win the general election, Hillary said yes, but she also said she is better. However, the news put an article titled ‘Hillary said yes’.
Why the media is so silly to put down a smart candidate?
Why the media wants another Bush-like opportunist to be president?
Posted by: golfgirlusa | April 16, 2008, 10:01 pm 10:01 pm
I’m talking about the Clinton bullies throughout the years, not just this election. They will do whatever necessary to win. And it will tear this party apart. This tells me that they aren’t concerned about our country, they just want the power at any cost to us.
Posted by: molly | April 16, 2008, 10:01 pm 10:01 pm
Several polls have showed Hillary is leading Obama in PA, with wide margins. But the media choose not to report any good news about her, only focusing on negative.
Posted by: zhengli | April 16, 2008, 10:03 pm 10:03 pm
It looks like ABC has become the Fox “news” of broadcast tv.
Posted by: AkaDad | April 16, 2008, 10:06 pm 10:06 pm
WOW…
I agree with one poster here that this ABC debate is the most horrifying free fall in political journalism I’ve ever seen in a debate in a presidential campaign…
just incredible, shame on ABC…
What did YOU think of it Jake? I’d be interested.
Posted by: greg | April 16, 2008, 10:06 pm 10:06 pm
I agree with ‘geevill’.
No pillow given by C Gibson. BTW, all ABC reporters show see Gibson as example.
Obama’s debate performance is so bad. I don’t think he even has one debate better than Hillary.
See, debate is unprepared speeches. How Obama is bad on this??
Remember, unprepared speeches, that’s one factor we should consider when picking president.
Posted by: golfgirlusa | April 16, 2008, 10:08 pm 10:08 pm
Even if Hillary has a big win in Pa it really doesn’t matter. She won’t be the nominee regardless.
Posted by: myst | April 16, 2008, 10:08 pm 10:08 pm
I think this is one of the best debates I have seen. George was great!
Posted by: Logan | April 16, 2008, 10:10 pm 10:10 pm
PS Obama’s negatives are at an all time high too! And what’s remarkable is that he has had the most positive press and spin of any candidate in history…and his negatives are still catching up to him.
It is not surprising that Hillary has extremely high negatives the Obama strategy of vilifying and demonizing Clinton in order to raise her negatives even more has been succeeding.
Regardless of her negatives there are still 50% of the likely Democratic voters that prefer her.
I have no confidence in the polls for PA and believe they will be inaccurate as were the polls for most of the states that Hillary has wond to date….PA plus at least 12 points is my prediction.
Posted by: Jackie | April 16, 2008, 10:12 pm 10:12 pm
Great performance by Hillary!!!!
Great questions by Charlie and George, now this was a debate. No easy questions for either one. Hillary was ready with steps and data. obama rambled on for too many questions.
Posted by: toby | April 16, 2008, 10:14 pm 10:14 pm
Hillary Clinton was awesome tonight! Obama was so unbelievably weak! Hillary is so smart and she was up to date on policy, foreign affairs and current issues etc. She was also articulate concise and to the point. He really danced around so many of the questions. His lack of experience and weak policy really came through. It was obvious that he is not in the same league as Hillary Clinton. She is capable in touch and will turn this country around!! I hope this debate will help turn this racially imbalanced race around. Go HILLARY!!!!
Posted by: DR. Kathleen Parker | April 16, 2008, 10:14 pm 10:14 pm
This was the best debate I have ever seen too….ABC really is the fairest MSM in most respects. MSNBC is already up smashing the debate and trying to say that George and Charles didn’t ask the right questions…I think they were upset that Obama came across as tenative and inexperienced….perhaps MSNBC would have preferred that ABC cover for Obama and attack Hillary
Thank you to ABC for a great effort.
Posted by: Jackie | April 16, 2008, 10:16 pm 10:16 pm
Because a cutting room is a powerful rhetoric and the millions of dollars spent by the Republican Party on destroying her for years have worked.
She is still the best candidate.
1. Great work by Charlie Gibson tonight. That was a fine debate and ABC showed more guts with the candidates than I’ve seen all election season. They went right to the tough questions and followed up. Congratulations for bringing journalism back to TV.
2. Jake, what was going on when they cut to you, fellow? You really looked perplexed.
3. Obama IS unelectable. Hillary is wrong about that, sorry, but so. Just as those who believe her negatives are so high, his deflections away from his own flawed judgments are just as glaring.
I enjoyed this debate. It was the barn burner I thought it would be.
Now off to CNN and MSNBC to watch the sleazy tricks of the cutting room and the in-the-tank punditry of the TV tabloids.
Fox is Fox. Tautologies R Them.
Posted by: len | April 16, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
Jake-
Dude! I usually like your political commentary, but your comments on the debate sucked. The issue of Obama’s “shady connections” has always been a complete red herring. It’s B.S. Does anyone remember the Clinton’s long list of corrupt connections? Do you think that won’t come up in the general election? Why does she get a pass on this issue?
Posted by: Mike | April 16, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
I do not know if the Candidates were debating each other or Debating George and Charlie. The Rev wright flap and the Bitter flap and the Bosnia flap has been beat to death.
I thought overall it was a poor performance on the part of ABC, I would have liked to see more on the issues, and less interuption when the Candidates were answering.
Posted by: Thinking | April 16, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
Jacki says………It is not surprising that Hillary has extremely high negatives the Obama strategy of vilifying and demonizing Clinton in order to raise her negatives even more has been succeeding.
……………………….
Are you kidding me. Hillary and especially Bill have done that all by themselves. Obama just needs to sit back and watch.
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
Hillary Logic Example #943
Hillary Statement : The glass isn’t half-full, it’s completely FULL! It’s full, because I personally filled it, at great personal risk to my health!
Media response : Video evidence proves it was alwayds half full. She lied, maybe she’s lied about other stuff, ya think?
Obama statement : I thought it kinda looked half empty, which is a shame. If only people would stop voting for divisive garbage and vote in their best interests, we could all come together and keep it full all the time!
Media response : Hillary said that Obama’s statement about the glass was insulting people for voting on “garbage” and was elitist. On further review, he could have been clearer, but he’s kinda right on that one. Bad form on Hillary for misconstruing the point.
Hillary Logic Conclusion : MEDIA BIAS!!!
Posted by: fontapa | April 16, 2008, 10:19 pm 10:19 pm
I agree with “Thinking.” ABC really dropped the ball on this debate. Charlie and George did a poor job of moderating this debate.
Posted by: Mike | April 16, 2008, 10:19 pm 10:19 pm
Lauren, that was great wasn’t it. Did you notice Hillary’s face when Obama said that about the pardons.
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 10:23 pm 10:23 pm
Her negatives are high because there has been a concerted effort by much of the media and the Obama campaign to paint her as a monster. MisognyNBC has delivered 24hour smears against her. CNN as we speak is repainting the debate in a negative light. Obama makes passive aggressive attacks on her all the time and has since the beginning an no one dares to call him out on it. Stop smearing her 24/7 and her negatives will go down.
Posted by: jb | April 16, 2008, 10:24 pm 10:24 pm
HILLARY THE GREAT! She just demonstrated why she is qualified to be President and he is not. I’m glad someone asked him about the radicals he consorts with–too bad they didn’t ask him about his support (and campaigning for ) his socialist cousin Raila Odinga of Kenya whose supporters burn their opposition to death in churches!
How about District 11 in Chicago? The south side of Chicago is a hell-hole–in spite of being represented by Obama his entire political life–how’s he gonna fix a country if he can’t fix a city..???
Posted by: Phillip Seymour | April 16, 2008, 10:25 pm 10:25 pm
Okay- If MSNBC First Read can admit Obama tanked in the debate, surely ABC can admit it to.
Posted by: Obama Tanked the Debate | April 16, 2008, 10:25 pm 10:25 pm
WORST DEBATE I,VE WATCHED. SO ONE SIDED. NO COMPARISON TO TIM RUSSERT AND BRIAN WILLIAMS WHO HAVE CLASS.
Posted by: TINA PETERS | April 16, 2008, 10:26 pm 10:26 pm
I thought they did a great job at least they made them answer the question and if they didn’t them again asked and didn’t let it drop.The questions were loaded and I thought over all it was good,cleared the air in many respects.Had to notice Obama would not be nasty to Hilly, even tho she was to him,she is nasty and will be from now on because no one believes her lies.Loved the excuse on Bosnia hahaha
Posted by: h | April 16, 2008, 10:27 pm 10:27 pm
I think Hillary has won all the debates. BUT I think the quality of all these debate has been very poor. What about the issues, what about Florida and Michigan.
Posted by: tt | April 16, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm
The comment attributed to Hillary Clinton some years ago in an unauthorized book….may not even be true.
Obama admitted he made the comments in San Francisco but everyone seems to be leaving out the “antipathy to people that are not like them and anti-immigrant”….so I guess he gets a pass again…If someone called me a bitter gun toting bible thumper I would be upset…but if someone called me a racist I would never vote for them.
What is it with Obama that we are down to the nomination wire and his campaign has thrown more mud than any campaign in recent history…but we are not allowed to question this guy.
scary
Posted by: Jackie | April 16, 2008, 10:30 pm 10:30 pm
jb, the Clintons have been around forever. And you are blaming Obama for her negatives. Oh please, no one has ever liked Hillary and now she is showing her true colors with her lies and negativity. She will stop at nothing to win this nomination. That is why people are turning against her. She will ruin this country unless she is the nominee. Do you not see that.
Posted by: molly | April 16, 2008, 10:30 pm 10:30 pm
The first thing that came to my mind while watching this debate was is this ABC News or FOX News? I have never seen such a biased debate in all my life. I think if one is really honest, more dirty laundry could have been aired about the Clintons including dirty laundry about their associations over the years and all of Bills “oral misquotes during this campaign”. I just found myself wondering what about the true issues. Rarely were they ever discussed. I just think that ABC News blew a great opportunity to really get at the meat and potatoes of what the candidates views and plans reaaly are. I am so highly disappointed in and turned off by ABC after this that I’ve decided to watch NBC to get my news from here on, including Sundays. I do not even think I want to watch ABC’s local news coverage anymore. This whole debate has just left a bad after taste and has now costed ABC a news viewer.
Posted by: Manika | April 16, 2008, 10:32 pm 10:32 pm
The reason because medias have been potray Obama like an angel.
Posted by: Gee | April 16, 2008, 10:32 pm 10:32 pm
Only ABC and FNC in my judgement have fair news. CNN, MSNBC,NBC they all bias toward Obama
Posted by: Sue | April 16, 2008, 10:34 pm 10:34 pm
Wow, that was a great debate, Jake. You must be really proud of your colleagues. We got to hear about flag pins and preachers and media generated non-gaffes and all sortsa exciting stuff!! And none of that boring FISA or NAFTA or Health Care or Supreme Court or “Unitary Executive” or torture, thank goodness!
Your network is filth.
Posted by: Brautigan | April 16, 2008, 10:35 pm 10:35 pm
It’s unfortunate that we couldn’t have heard their plans for healthcare… but Hillary was at the top of the game when it came to explaining what she would do in regards to the economy and Iraq,
I thought Obama was kind of surly towards Hillary. Did anyone else pick up on that?
And his pap on patriotism was nada.
Posted by: questioner | April 16, 2008, 10:35 pm 10:35 pm
Lauren, Obama did wonderful tonight, didn’t he. He took the high road when he was asked about Hillary and Bosnia.
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 10:35 pm 10:35 pm
I agree, This debate was clearly one-sided
I am glad however
Obama refused to attack Clinton when she was clearly pushing hard at him
But I’ll be waiting for the “screw em” comment to hit the airwaves
Posted by: Vanessa | April 16, 2008, 10:36 pm 10:36 pm
This is HILLY does for a living she eats ,breaths and sleep politics.Read an artical why they would never seperate, for their anniversary they stayed home and watched a old debate. That is her life,oh yes she is a speaker she does it well……Practice makes perfect….She kept refering to the 90 and their years>>>>again she did diddle squart.
Posted by: honest | April 16, 2008, 10:37 pm 10:37 pm
Lauren:
Would that be “Red” Skeltons?
Posted by: questioner | April 16, 2008, 10:38 pm 10:38 pm
Egad, it was nice Georgie Porgie was one of the moderators especially since he is one of Clinton’s henchmen. The debate sucked. What happened to true discussion about America’s problems instead of the BS? We need to hear issues and honesty not the lies that pour from Hillary’s mouth. She will raise taxes and it will be a mess. She owes her soul to the lobbyists and big corporations.It is a well known fact that the Clintons will do anything to win and they don’t care about morals. I will have to vote for McCain if she gets the nomination. How sad. Obama ’08
Posted by: CS3539 | April 16, 2008, 10:40 pm 10:40 pm
.. she might have dond “diddly squat”…
but she aced this debate…. and all the other ones….. too.
Posted by: questioner | April 16, 2008, 10:40 pm 10:40 pm
Perhaps her negatives would not be so high if you reported the factual news and not make crap up.
Here’s a thought…try taking a poll and ask voters if they think that Hillary or the media is to blame for the tone of the campaign. You would be surprised how smart we are.
Better yet…try playing the entire “fairytale” quote and pick out all the references to race. You will not find a single one.
This is not the network of Peter Jennings.
Posted by: Gabe | April 16, 2008, 10:41 pm 10:41 pm
ABC sank lower than FOX with this debate.
I couldn’t believe mu eyes and ears.
Incredible.
Disgusting, even.
Poor candidates. They should never accept any ABC invitation again.
Posted by: marian | April 16, 2008, 10:43 pm 10:43 pm
Comparing 46 years old and 60 yrs old which one has more negative in their life. The young one much less involves in politic just like a baby in the family.
The baby has not develop yet including in the negative things.
Posted by: crisis08 | April 16, 2008, 10:46 pm 10:46 pm
With all due respect Mr.Tapper, what I saw tonight was the most embarassing display of “journalism” I have ever seen. Thanks for doing America no favor. A flag pin question? Really? You lost me as a viewer. Disgusting.
Posted by: Dann | April 16, 2008, 10:47 pm 10:47 pm
I am plagiarizing this “post” because we all need to see it:
“For the ignorant bloggers who question the courage, intelligence or character of either of these two candidates, try running for local school board, or city council and see how tough it is to run for public office. In the entire history of the USA, we have never had two perfect people running for anything. However, we have had many intelligent and hard-working people run.
David Kolva, MD Oswego/Syracuse, NY (Sent Wednesday, April 16, 2008 9:38 PM)”
It’s something to remember when you’re slinging mud and venom at either one of them!
Posted by: eyes | April 16, 2008, 10:48 pm 10:48 pm
Your debate was an embarrassment. David Westin should be fired. That was not journalism. Lapel pins???? Gimme a break.
Posted by: rick | April 16, 2008, 10:50 pm 10:50 pm
I think Chris Mathew, Keith Olberman, Jack Cafferty, Jonathan Alter, Howard Fineman and all those reporters bias toward clinton voted 100 times each to make the pool look good.
Posted by: Sue | April 16, 2008, 10:50 pm 10:50 pm
Fabulous, ABC! You just wasted my valuable time with that debacle you promoted as a debate. The questions were nothing but sensationalized tabloid garbage, most of which reeked of a political “lynching.” I hardly think George Stephanopoulos can pass for an impartial moderator, considering his long relationship with the Clintons. (He removed all doubt by using questions straight from the right wing playbook.) My intelligence is insulted; these candidates should not be wasting my time, or theirs, answering this rubbish instead of addressing real issues. And, Hillary, your continual refusal to take the high road is making you look desperate-please stop!
Posted by: Gail | April 16, 2008, 10:54 pm 10:54 pm
I thought this was one of the better, more fair debates. Unfortunately, the easy little flag question, not to mention the post-debate spin online, continues to reveal an Obama-biased media. Senator Clinton is definitely the stronger, more capable candidate, and I hope the media doesn’t deprive us of this opportunity to have her serve as President.
Posted by: Jane, NC | April 16, 2008, 10:55 pm 10:55 pm
Now,,you guys are complaining, condemning ABC not when Tim Russett took the debate last time.
Be fair, please,,,
There is a happy hour and there is a time to pay also.
Posted by: crisis08 | April 16, 2008, 10:56 pm 10:56 pm
Those who think Obama won this debate are going to support him, no matter what he does or does not do. On the other hand, no matter how smart and how cogently she explains her answers to all the questions she’s asked, she will be criticized and villified. It surely doesn’t seem right that for all the good things she has planned for her country and its people, she is defined by a stupid missed recall of a landing in Bosnia 12 years ago. General Wesley Clark, NATO Commander in charge of the fighting in Bosnia, has endorsed her. Doesn’t that count for something? Obviously not.
For example: Call her a liar; but look at the whoppers Obama has told such as the extent to which Mr. Retzko contributed to his campaign – first none, then $150,000, finally $250,000. First, never heard any of Rev. Wright’s terrible sermons; well yes he heard some, and finally, was familiar with them. Then tonight, does NOT accept PAC money, yet is backed by MoveOn.Org, the largest PAC out there.
However, as originally said, the Obama supporters are going to say he is right on all his views; but personally, we feel badly that, if she fails, this country will be devoid of one of the smartest people ever to run for the presidency.
Posted by: Marvik | April 16, 2008, 10:57 pm 10:57 pm
The questions in the beginning of this debate were a real waste of time. The Bosnia issue, Reverend Wright, the bitter issue have been beaten to death by the media. It doesn’t help one American avoid foreclosure on their home. It doesn’t help us at the gas pump, at the supermarket, and our soldiers are dying in Iraq, and coming home disabled. Families are torn apart and it’s time to get rid of the distractions and let the candidates tell us how they are going to make the necessary changes for healthcare, the economy, the war, social security, the environment. We have enough serious issues to discuss. We are voting for our lives to be better than they have been during previous administrations. This was a very disappointing debate. The questions were terrible and manipulative. It was a missed opportunity for the American people to get some substance during the debate. I’m glad to see Obama take the high road. Obama 08
Posted by: Bonnie Crawford | April 16, 2008, 10:57 pm 10:57 pm
Even the live audience found the debate so horrible that they jeered at Charlie Gibson. “OH…” he declared, his hands raised in defense. “The crowd is turning on me, the crowd is turning on me.”
What an extremely poor performance of George and Charlie… An insult to American voters, to people’s concerns and worries and expectations, to American politics, to the elections, to the Presidency, to the candidates and to the viewers.
Shame on ABC! This was GARBAGE.
Jake, get out of there! Save your soul!
Posted by: herta | April 16, 2008, 10:57 pm 10:57 pm
Lauren — So as Bill Clinton rose in their defense, do you find him despicable?
Posted by: LOM | April 16, 2008, 10:59 pm 10:59 pm
They did not bring up all of Obama’s dear friends,
- Senator Meeks who openly hates whites and gays and is listed prominently on Obama?s campaign website as a major Obama supporter and backer and is one of Obama;s super-delegate. Mr. Meeks has been integral in Obama success in politics.
- Mr. Ayers of the Weather Underground, a group that killed police and tried to bomb the US Capitol, served with Obama on the board of the leftist foundation called the Woods Fund.
- Robert Malley a close senior adviser to Obama who advocates negotiations with Hamas and providing international assistance to the terrorist group.
- Mr. Auchi is an Iraqi billionaire and major financial sponsor and closely connected to Obama?s rise to power. While working with Saddam Hussein, Auchi made his fortune through the selling of arms in Iraq and the funneling off of money from the Oil for Food program.
- Mr. Rezko an Iraqi citizen and Obama?s and Auchi?s long time friend of 17 years and a major mob figure. Rezko is NOT known for his civic sense of duty and does not do favors without asking something in return. Coincidently the Chicago Times reported yesterday that Rezko was negotiating to purchase rehab buildings in Obama?s district.
- Mr. Wright a racist who hates America and whites . Mr. Wright has been Mr. Obama?s spiritual mentor for over 20 years. bounced all his political ideas off of. Before the media exposed Mr. Wright, he was Obama’s chief religious advisor on Obama?s campaign staff. Mr. Wright and Mr. Meeks are ideologically closer to Karl Marx and Black Nationalism, than to Christianity.
- Rashid Khalidi a fundraiser for Obama and is one of Obama?s close friends. Khalidis claim Israel as a “catastrophe”, and supports Palestinian terrorist groups.
- Mr. McPeaks is Obama?s military adviser and national campaign co-chairman who publicly states that American Jews are the “problem.” and ?Christian Zionists were driving America’s policy in Iraq to benefit Israel.?
Posted by: seah | April 16, 2008, 11:00 pm 11:00 pm
Lauren
I thought this was a great debate. I think Obama will be the nominee. I know the Hillary supporters say they won’t support him but the young people and the independents will elect him because they are tired of the republicans in office. Look what a mess they have made of this country.
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 11:04 pm 11:04 pm
Well Jake, if she sucks so bad.. and everyone hates her.. how come he can’t beat her in large states? How comes she’s won all the big ones.. and looks like PA will follow suit? If she is so bad, such a liar, such a phoney, and he’s outspending her 5:1, the MSM is in his pocket, yet with all that.. he still can’t finish her? Seems like maybe she’s not the problem.
Posted by: A reader in Georgia | April 16, 2008, 11:04 pm 11:04 pm
Obama supporters are whining in chorus about the questions that Barack got in the debate tonight. Wright, bitter-cling, Ayers, flag pin…a run down of 527 ad subject matter for the general election. Whining may be what you’re used to, but it is unattractive and really ineffective. I’m sure it will do you a lot of good should we suffer the misfortune of watching your man square of against John McCain. McCain knows a bit about adversity. He has faced and weathered it before and against him Obama will look like pretty pathetic.
Posted by: NJH | April 16, 2008, 11:06 pm 11:06 pm
This debate was about a whole lot of nothing! It was clear that both Lou and George were Hillary supporters! Lou’s constant interruption of Senator Obama was deplorable, However, it was great to observe how Obama handled the situation. In my view he showed his Presidential characteristics by continuing his points and not bashing Clinton on Bosnia when we all know she was just telling a big tall tale to get votes!
Senator Obama certainly won my support tonight!
Lou and George are so biased, they are a disgrace to the Media.
Senator Obama should never again subject himself to such demeaning tactics.
The American people are not stupid and could readily see through all of the charades by Lou and George!
Posted by: IdaHere | April 16, 2008, 11:08 pm 11:08 pm
Hillary did get carried away telling her war story. That was a mistake she admits. The press, with profuse encouragement from the Obama campaign, has hammered her on that story. Then they hammered her unfairly about the Ohio health care story and didn’t sufficiently correct their stories when the facts came out. Assuming the polls were an accurate measure of her negatives, I would assume the press handling of those two incidents would be a big reason.
Posted by: Pat | April 16, 2008, 11:10 pm 11:10 pm
This was one of the worst debates I’ve ever watched. Sean Hannity himself couldn’t have put on a worse debate. Everyone at ABC News needs to distance themselves from it. The channel’s reputation is at stake.
Posted by: Mike | April 16, 2008, 11:10 pm 11:10 pm
McCain won’t win against Hillary or Obama. He is too old. I know I won’t vote for him and I’m a republican. I am staying home.
Posted by: sad | April 16, 2008, 11:11 pm 11:11 pm
It’s not so much of unfairness
It just seemed as if the moderators were pressing hard on Obama
and meekly touching on Clinton
After the first hour, I stopped tuning in…
I believe voters in the upcoming primaries realized the bias of this debate
Posted by: Vanessa | April 16, 2008, 11:11 pm 11:11 pm
I cannot believe all the criticism that has come down about George S. and Charlie Gibson in tonight’s debate. I thought they were superb. The questions they asked clarified the accusations unfairly made against Hillary Clinton by Chris Matthews, Keith Olbermann and the NBC biased people. The last debate moderated by Tim Russert and Brian Williams seemed as thought they thought of themselves of members of the great inquisition. The conduct of NBC and MSNBC during this presidential campaign has forever moved them from my favorite column. Hillary Clinton has performed magnificently in answering debate questions, just as well as Barack Obama, yet these people have chosen to hammer her unabatedly, and I for one am sick of them. Whoever said Fox News has covered the Democratic campaign in a more fair way than NBC/MSNBC is correct. Sorry Keith; we now watch Bill O’Reilly.
Posted by: Marvik | April 16, 2008, 11:13 pm 11:13 pm
The debate was terrible. Charlie I am disappointed in the way you moderated. George you did the expected since you owe your loyalty to Hillary.
My 15 year old was watching and said he has much respect for Obama and the way he maintained he composure despite the obvious biasness displayed by the moderators.
Is this what he has to look forward to in America? Shame on you.We need to focus on the real issues that we are facing e.g. the war in Iraq, the economy,crime,social security,education,racism etc
Posted by: Lynn | April 16, 2008, 11:15 pm 11:15 pm
an interesting observation-anderson cooper,keith olberman, and cnn. candy crawley, after weeks of hammering Sen. Clinton-about non issue items.
all of a sudden-they are interested in issues.
Sen. Clinton has been talking about the issues all along, obama has not been able to talk about the issues-because of all of the things we are finding out about him-and they are things we do need to be concerned with.
all of a sudden-cnn and the others want to move on.
so if it is past mess about sen. clinton lets talk about it analyse it and bring her down with it.
but when it is obama and his mess. lets talk about the issues.
obama copies hillary
I even heard him using terms that she has been using all along.
I cannot believe he gave an answer about the payroll tax cap.
and she disagreed with him about it
and he came back and said “well after iowa-someone had a cell phone and heard you tell a woman the same thing”
so I knew obama copied-and now I know how he copies.
I even heard axelrod on cspan when he was in the spin room-continually saying
well I think they both said that
or sen. obama said this and sen. clinton pretty much says the same thing
but the problem -you find out where the smarts are-from who is the originator of a plan as opposed to copying.
obama copies clinton.
and when the clinton plans go
where will obama get is plans from.
sen. clinton is the smart one.
Posted by: jgaw | April 16, 2008, 11:17 pm 11:17 pm
A reader in Georgia, That is a very good point, with the MSM, money and high profile endorsements. Why hasn’t he left her in the dust? I guess half of the democrats still want her as president. I am so tired of the polls, can’t wait for Tuesday.
Posted by: Tina D | April 16, 2008, 11:18 pm 11:18 pm
You know Lauren, when Chris Matthews asked McCain if he thought Obama was an elitist, he said no, he didn’t feel that way about Obama. So why is everyone making this a big deal
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 11:22 pm 11:22 pm
ABC did a fine job in the debate tonight. It is about time that Obama was made to answer tough questions about his character. It was a refreshing change from the disgraceful NBC fawning over Obama.
Posted by: bri | April 16, 2008, 11:22 pm 11:22 pm
THANK YOU ABC. YOU ARE INCREDIBLE. YOU GAVE THE WORLD A SNEAK PEEK HOW THE GENERAL ELECTION WILL BE IF OBAMA IS THE NOMINEE. THE GOP WILL BRING UP EVERYTHING CHARLIE AND GEORGE DID AND MORE! BRAVO ABC. NOW I KNOW WITHOUT DOUBT, IF OBAMA IS THE NOMINEE THAT MCCAIN WILL WIN. OBAMA WAS EVASIVE AND TANKED TONIGHT.
Posted by: bravo ABC | April 16, 2008, 11:24 pm 11:24 pm
tapper, will you address the firestorm against ABCNews’ performance tonight?
apparently George and Charlie care more about label pins than waterboarding.
shame on you, ABC News. may your satellites fall to the earth.
I AM BOYCOTTING ALL ABC AND DISNEY PRODUCTS. FIRE GIBSON. FIRE GEORGE.
Posted by: Vonda | April 16, 2008, 11:27 pm 11:27 pm
Bravo,
Obama will win against McCain. He has the youth and the independent vote along with so many of us that are tired of the same old politics. We want something different, we want change
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 11:28 pm 11:28 pm
Did Hillary say that Obama was electable? what about gas prices and food prices? I don’t care about bitter or cling, those things are not going to fix the bigger problems, most of the questions they asked were stupid and are not about how to get this country back on track….
Posted by: Bill | April 16, 2008, 11:33 pm 11:33 pm
See the reaction Jake…when Obama is asked a hard question…people aren’t used to this it disturbs them. The debates so far have been an exercise in Clinton bashing…and she was able to keep her cool and lay out her proposals..that have over time been adopted to a large extent by Obama.
Obama was not cool “unscripted” and what was that petty attack on Hillary?…about someone heard something in Iowa…I’m sure that’s going right under the radar because as always it was petty and stupid and so many believe the PR campaign for Obama.
This guy is a weasel.
As far as MSNBC I stopped watching them months ago…tonight I saw about 5 minutes of Keith bashing ABC and Clinton and I turned it off.
Whoever said Fox News has covered the Democratic campaign in a more fair way than MSNBC and CNN is correct. I have watched quiet a bit of FOX lately…the truth is they are Republican based but they admit it…
CNN claims to be “fair and unbiased” but they have commentators constantly advocating for Obama. MSNBC is angry and totally tabloid in it’s Obama campaign. ABC is better…
I am a lifelong Democrat and since I’m considering McCain I need to look at all the facts…I’m tired of the slant and I reject the Obama campaign’s control of MSM
Posted by: Jackie | April 16, 2008, 11:34 pm 11:34 pm
ABC’s negatives are at record high as well after tonight.
A tabloid debate, an insult to America and the difficult issues we all face.
Posted by: ken | April 16, 2008, 11:34 pm 11:34 pm
you obama supporters have turned coverup and excuses for obama into an art
obama has been getting a pass-help-and the media doing his bidding in everyway.
If the media had vetted obama in the beginning-and we had found out what we know now about him-he would not be in the lead-if we had know earlier what we are finding out about him-EVEN YOU WOULD NOT HAVE VOTED FOR HIM
I mean for someone to have such a short politcal resume’ he has very quickly attached himself at various time to some very questionable people-and he should have to explain his association with these people.
now we finally have someone asking him the hard questions and you (obama supporters) cnn, msnbc, and all of the other so called newss agencies are turning on the abc moderators.
(what happened-did they ignore the memo to the media-that said “cover obama in all things at all cost-integrity included”) or because of their questions you realized george and charlie must have missed this evenings dose of obama-laced koolade.
Lets get back to the issues-and she will
run circles around him.
believe me-no one wants to stay off the issues-More that obama.-he knows the issues are not his strong points.
Posted by: jgaw | April 16, 2008, 11:35 pm 11:35 pm
yeehah !!!!!!! Hillary kicked tonight ! Anyone who says Obama “won” that debate is downright blind. Finally, a major network (ABC) FAIRLY challenged the candidates . The best, most fair debate all season. It was more clear than ever that Obama shrinks under pressure. He will fall all over his words (like tonight) if the Republicans go up against him. He has no substantial record of solid change to pull from in a debate when challenged on the issues. The TRUE CHAMPION and UNIFIER tonight was MS. HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 16, 2008, 11:36 pm 11:36 pm
I thought it was good that they brought up criticisms so that Obama could answer them; however, I must say that I have heard all of his answers before, but maybe others have not. Because he is the front runner, of course he is going to get the most challenges. I thought that he handled everything well with the grace and intelligence that we have come to expect. I thought it interesting that Hillary admitted to lying about the Bosnia thing. Good for her. I would like to see more discussions on how they answered the questions on policy. I agreed with both of them on everything but was leary of Clinton on her answers on Iran. I think that sometimes she is too heavy on military retaliation for fear that people don’t think a woman can take us to war. Don’t like that. I hope that the voters in PA (my native state and a great one)make choices based on who they think has the judgement, character, intelligence, integrity and unifying qualities. After many months of being on the fence, I support Barack Obama and was proud of him tonight.
Posted by: Jan | April 16, 2008, 11:39 pm 11:39 pm
Great debate! Best one I’ve seen on television so far. Charles and George were wonderful! You two make a great team!
I am an HRC supporter and all I’ve been waiting for are tough questions for both candidates. Tonight that happened. Of course, I think my candidate did a great job! And no to those who think the Wright issue had been laid to rest, that’s not true out here where I am at.
There are not too many “real democrats” in the county where I live. It’s a “red” county in a “red state.” But I can tell you Rev. Wright is still on the minds of a lot of people and Obama’s latest comments that he made himself in San Francisco are not resonating well with the “folks” out here because Ks. is except for the northeastern pocket next to Kansas City, Mo. and Wichita – a rural and small-town state. And even in the two most populated areas of the state, many people have their roots in rural and small-town America.
We are not happy with the economy and perhaps some people are “bitter” but we have always been “religious” people. There are many churches, temples, synagogues, meditation centers, etc. in the area where I live. People of almost any religious persuasion or “none at all” can probably find others of similar beliefs. My husband and I nor our children are “gun-owners” but many people we know enjoy hunting including some members of my family of origin. (I grew up on a farm.) To think that we and family and friends are gun-toting, religious bigots, and xenophobic as well because we’ve had to tighten our belts is ludicrous!
With so many people either still living in rural and small-town America or having their roots in the above, Senator Obama needs to apologize for his remarks in San Francisco. He didn’t mangle his words – his intent was to ridicule certain citizens of this country. It came across as arrogant and that doesn’t play well in many parts of the country.
Posted by: Cathy in Ks. | April 16, 2008, 11:40 pm 11:40 pm
so HRC supporters say this was a good debate?
HRC supporters frequently complain that we are getting off the issues, its about solutions not speeches and character, but this debate was more than 50% just petty issues like flag pins, and they’re satisfied?
FIRE GEORGE AND CHARLIE.
Posted by: Vonda | April 16, 2008, 11:42 pm 11:42 pm
jgaw
In the history of our country, there have been many politicans who were not ready to take over and guide our country, they had no experience. Yet they did so and to the chagrin of many they became great leaders.
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 11:43 pm 11:43 pm
why are the obama supporters so angry tonignt?
If their guy is as clean as they dream he is-he can stand a few hard questions.
are you afraid he will mess up in his answers-or get himself in more trouble?
even our lord and savior Jesus Christ
didn’t mind being vetted-a little.
Posted by: jgaw | April 16, 2008, 11:46 pm 11:46 pm
I didn’t care for the gotcha crud in the first 45 minutes. That “political silly season” stuff shouldn’t be in a debate. Once we got past that, it was a very good debate. Clinton was very presidential tonight with very expansive answers on a range of issues. Obama stumbled quite a bit, but did okay. She generally out performs him in this type of venue. I think this will help pull the majority of the undecided voters her way on Tuesday.
Posted by: LOM | April 16, 2008, 11:46 pm 11:46 pm
Vonda, your right, flag pins? what the hell is wrong with the democrats? too many stupid questions and not enough about fixing the problems, Hillary did not look at the camera when she answered and pointed fingers at Obama and Obama kept defending himself. very few times anything about issues from both of them…
Posted by: Bill | April 16, 2008, 11:47 pm 11:47 pm
erin,
I agree with you 100%-and Sen. Clinton will have a bit of a learning curve.But she will make a great leader
She has good command of the issues.
she can articulate her answers so the common person can understand where she stands.
and I know everybody knows when she says she is going to fight for the good of the country-there is no doubt she will.
and as you said-will become a great leader.
Posted by: jgaw | April 16, 2008, 11:49 pm 11:49 pm
jgaw
In the history of our country, there have been many politicans who were not ready to take over and guide our country, they had no experience. Yet they did so and to the chagrin of many they became great leaders.
Posted by: erin | April 16, 2008, 11:50 pm 11:50 pm
Mr Tapper, you have to admit that your colleagues Gibson and Stephanopoulos were the wrong people with the wrong questions.
Why did you not go in as a moderator ?
I really like your comments on ABC.
This Obama-grillfest showed that you guys have not information for serious voters and halfway educated viewers.
ABC is out of my program for very long time !
Posted by: yardgirl | April 16, 2008, 11:51 pm 11:51 pm
I was surprised to hear on CNN, Clinton supporters outnumbered Obama supporters 5 to 1 outside of the debate venue. I thought Obama had a lot of support in Philadelphia.
Posted by: Tina D | April 16, 2008, 11:53 pm 11:53 pm
I don’t think that ABC has won my support tonight allowing half the time of the debate on stupid questions which have no relation to the policy that the candidates intend to implement and will affect the country.(wasn’t that the scope of this meeting??????)
Shame on Charles and George for doing such a bad job.
Posted by: guy | April 16, 2008, 11:53 pm 11:53 pm
This has to have established a new low in Presidential Debate moderation. It took 45 minutes to get to the first question of any substance. How insulting!
Posted by: Nicholas Lefevre | April 16, 2008, 11:55 pm 11:55 pm
Why do I think her numbers are so low? Are you serious? The woman has had nothing but endless negative coverage. The negative numbers are exactly what those of you in the MSM have been aiming for. If the tables were turned and Mr. Hope was on MSNBC’s, CNN’s, ABC’s and most major newspaper’s HIT LIST, his numbers would be in the toilet too. Funny how that works. Negative news coverage for 15 months, negative polling numbers. Funny that. Amazing, isn’t it?
Posted by: Vickie | April 16, 2008, 11:58 pm 11:58 pm
I find the comments that abhor ABC’s performance somewhat laughable. There are many on here who think the questions that seem to “attack” Obama were in poor taste (I think they are relevant, but a waste of time in a debate setting), yet if you look at Jake’s earlier post today, there were all sorts of people demanding that Clinton be asked about Bosnia and other “lies.”
You can’t have it both way folks. It was hardly biased…it was finally balanced.
Posted by: LOM | April 16, 2008, 11:58 pm 11:58 pm
You know why Obama can’t quit smoking? He always ends the day with a love fest with the MSM.
Posted by: echo | April 17, 2008, 12:00 am 12:00 am
so the obama supporters want to stay on the issues-GOOD!
that is just where Sen. Clinton shines the most.
so you obama people will stop with the bosnia thing? and asking about bill and monica, and the non-issues things.
as Sen. Clinton said-she has been in public life a lot longer and has a lot of baggage that has been and continues to be rummaged through-but obama in his short career-has enough baggage already-and this is all that we know about-
all of a sudden his supporters say “lets not talk about the baggage, lets talk about the issues”
We clinton supporters have been asking you for that for a while now.
so lets stay on the issues
How does obama think we will have universal healthcare if we leave 15mil people out.
and I am still not clear on his answer about affordable college for poor white kids-what about his education plan?
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:00 am 12:00 am
Jake, I forgot to compliment you on the BEST DEBATE THIS PRIMARY SEASON! Kudos to Charlie, George and you. It was the most fair debate to date. In fact, I was shocked by the evenhandedness of it. I forgot how a REAL journalist is suppose to act. Your network was awesome…TONIGHT. Thank you. Props where props are due.:)
Posted by: Vickie | April 17, 2008, 12:02 am 12:02 am
This debate was the most fair one yet. I liked that the responses were timed, and each were given an equal amount of time. I liked that the questions were staggered, and that they “flipped a coin” to see who would go first on opening and closings. I was impressed that both were challenged with tough questions and not allowed to wiggle out of fully answering.
ABC handled this debate in a very admirable way, and I think both candidates supporters should have been satisfied with the fairness of the debate, for a change.
That said, Jake I didn’t like your characterizations on Nightline. Clinton was ASKED questions about her positions on Wright and Obama’s bitter comments, and she responded, owning her position, while Obama hedged on the Bosnia question, admitting his “campaign” was hammering on it, “of course,” yet somehow dodging personal responsibility for what his campaign is doing? That just seemed dishonest to me. If his campaign is doing it – HE is, and I felt that you reinforced that in your report. I’d much rather see the candidates own their positions and actions, than try and appear above the fray, when their actions don’t match the perception they’re trying to falsly portray.
Posted by: Teri B. | April 17, 2008, 12:04 am 12:04 am
Obama Supporters Who Are Angry ~
THIS debate, as silly as it may have seemed certainly didn’t have Obama laughing or naturally joining with the audience. The “silly” questions re. flag pin, combined ticket, economy, Ayers relationship, Israel, Wright tapes, etc. etc. had Obama on the defensive from the start. All of these “silly” questions are going to bombard the media if he is the dem. nominee. If how he handled himself tonight is any indicator as to how he will handle himself when challenged by the Republicans we ALL lose. Being a “community organizer” is commendable work but it certainly does not qualify one for CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE USA.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:11 am 12:11 am
American Presidents have come from many professions and backgrounds. However inept they may have been, the country prospered. The mantra right now is change. Be careful what you ask for, you might get it.
Posted by: texasdemocrat | April 17, 2008, 12:12 am 12:12 am
I’ll bet chris matthews and keith olberman are spitting nails right now.
anderson cooper too.
all of this points to the fact that msm has let us all down.
if obama had been vetted early on and msm were not focused on “bringing Mrs.Clinton down”
you people who support him would not be so mad tonight that he was finally asked a few hard questions. and in my book-his answers only bring up more questions.
I also want to say Mr. obama said that most of the people already have decided they want what he has to offer because of his position in the polls
I take issue with that because he is in the front-not because he has the greatest plan, and he is the smartest of the two. he is in the lead because:
-he has enjoyed the black community voting for him blindly
-he has enjoyed the media giving him a pass-and villifying sen. clinton.
-and he has the benefit (sad to say this) of people not really voting for him but voting against sen. clinton
(and voting against her for all the wrong reasons)
he has the DNC pulling for him
and he has a lot of liberal money supporting him
(i wish someone would explore the insurance co. money. going his way)
and of course he has many people who truly believe in him
but for the most part-he is in the lead for all the wrong reasons.
he is not the better of the two candidates.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:14 am 12:14 am
Hillary was pittiful, as pittiful as her Bosnia story under sniper fire. She turns against Obama at every chance she gets instead of addressing real issues. No wonder she is the most disliked politician in America today. Not only can she spin she spins fast and furions as exemplified in todays debate.
Obama was gracious, and he did not even turn on her even when he was given a chance to do so about the Bosnia sniper fire stark lie of Hillary. That is a good man.
I believe, Amercians can see the difference between a purposeful liar and an honest mistake. They are smarter than Washington thinks of them to be. Once they get rid of lobbyists like the oil, pharmaceautical and AIPAC PACs America will gain back what has been hijacked by special interests for the interests of the filthy rich and for the interests of another country named Israel.
Posted by: Lauren | April 17, 2008, 12:17 am 12:17 am
jgaw, you don’t need to “bet” they’re spitting nails – they are. I watched about 10 min. of AC360 (all I could stomach), and they were already in emergency spin mode. LMAO.
Posted by: Teri B. | April 17, 2008, 12:18 am 12:18 am
jgaw ~
absolutely true!
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:19 am 12:19 am
I believe that it was a good debate. It was about time that Obama was scrutinize a little. It does show that he is not ready to be president. I hear the clamoring of the Obama fans, becaue they are not use to see the media apply a little pressure on him. He is good at speeches, but is not very good at confrontations. It is still not too late to investigate Obama nobody has botter to find out where he gets his contributions, I do not believe that he gets them from grassroots donations of nickle and dimes to the tune of 40 million a month. I just hope that the people wake up on time and realize that we are to elect a president and not an american idol.
Posted by: Arturo | April 17, 2008, 12:20 am 12:20 am
Finally, How refreshing! A totally fair & unbiased debate. I thought both Charley & George were very fair & unlike the CNN debates actually asked fair questions, gave the candidates ample time to respond. One can only wish this is where all the rest of the debates had taken place. If the Obama people are upset, it’s because your candidate never really answers the question. He always dances around or changes the subject. Nice to see both of the candidates given a fair unbiased chance to answer the questions. Great job George & Charley. I’ve been missing out by not tuning in often enough to ABC. God Job!!
Posted by: Kaye | April 17, 2008, 12:20 am 12:20 am
What are you talking about Lauren. Only time Hillary spoke against Obama was about the remarks he himself made. Other than that there was hardly anything negative she spoke. Most of her talk was her plans and ideas. Obama didn’t have a straight answer to all his controversial associations and links and thats because noone else asked him that before. In fact it was Obama who was pitiful.
Posted by: Hillary | April 17, 2008, 12:21 am 12:21 am
This debate was handled terribly by ABC and Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopolous. ABC has been my network for news for many years, but tonight they stooped to the level of FOX news in running a typically tabloid debate. Was this the night for them to see how Obama handles controversy? I, for one, am sick of all this tabloid crap.Raising issues of patriotism with someone who chooses not to wear a lapel pin and trying to associate a candidate with an individual guilty of crimes that occurred 40 years ago is typical Republican/Karl Rove campaign tactic. Wasn’t it Hillary who complained so loudly about being a victim of a “vast right-wing conspiracy.” I guess Howard Wolfson thinks that this garbage is ok when you’re losing and completely desparate to win at all costs. George Stephanopolous’ loyalty to Hillary Clinton is exactly why some of these so-called reporters should not be giving us information on the candidates, because they just can’t help injecting their personal feelings or beliefs into what they report. But, that’s probably no worse than MSNBC having the known racist, Pat Buchanan giving his conservative, brainless bent on Democrats that he so openly despises(as well as women).
Posted by: Craig | April 17, 2008, 12:24 am 12:24 am
yes, it is clear he is not ready to be president.
and for this I blame his handlers-
right now if I were him-I think i would be cussing out axelrod and co.
he has everything going for him except
he is not the one.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:28 am 12:28 am
The Washington Post writes:
It was another step downward for network news — in particular ABC News, which hosted the debate from Philadelphia and whose usually dependable anchors, Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopoulos, turned in shoddy, despicable performances.
For the first 52 minutes of the two-hour, commercial-crammed show, Gibson and Stephanopoulos dwelled entirely on specious and gossipy trivia that already has been hashed and rehashed, in the hope of getting the candidates to claw at one another over disputes that are no longer news. Some were barely news to begin with.
The fact is, cable networks CNN and MSNBC both did better jobs with earlier candidate debates. Also, neither of those cable networks, if memory serves, rushed to a commercial break just five minutes into the proceedings, after giving each candidate a tiny, token moment to make an opening statement. Cable news is indeed taking over from network news, and merely by being competent.
Gibson sat there peering down at the candidates over glasses perched on the end of his nose, looking prosecutorial and at times portraying himself as a spokesman for the working class. Blunderingly he addressed an early question, about whether each would be willing to serve as the other’s running mate, “to both of you,” which is simple ineptitude or bad manners. It was his job to indicate which candidate should answer first. When, understandably, both waited politely for the other to talk, Gibson said snidely, “Don’t all speak at once.”
Posted by: hank | April 17, 2008, 12:29 am 12:29 am
the posts here are so sad
we get the leadership we deserve- you must be the same people who supported
GWBush all these years –
Hillary already had record high negatives – that is one number that will go even higher now
Normal people are sock of the diviseness – and Sen Clinton in the first 45 minutes of this debate lost the last shred of respect I had for her
But from the comments here – many of you like fighting – and getting nowhere
Hillary Clinton will never be Presdident of this country – so you can keep it up and thankd George and the supercilious Charlie for doing their part for the republicans
Because in NOV you will have 2 republicans running against each other and John McCain will beat Hillary Clinton
And this country will have lost a chance to transform if Barack Obama was the dem nominee
ABC should be ashamed
Most people wanted to hear issues not 45 minutes of the National Enquirer — Obama showed class in not piling on Hillary
Hillary has no class
and no chance
She turns peoples stomachs
Posted by: alison | April 17, 2008, 12:31 am 12:31 am
Lauren ~
If you’re interested I can pass on some websites that better inform the American people about the strengths and weakness of both candidates. There aren’t many but they do exist and it helps to make a more informed decision when electing a person for the most important position in the country. After reading your post I can’t help but think that your main sources of information are MSM, CNN perhaps Tim Russert, Matthews, Huffington Post and numerous other Obama supporting networks. Anyway, just thought I’d throw it out there in case you were interested. But, then again, it looks like you have your mind made up.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:32 am 12:32 am
Why are Obama supporters after issues all of a sudden and not bashing Hillary? Isn’t this an issue that a presidential candidate has links, associations with people who have anti-American sentiments and are of questionable integrity?
Posted by: Hillary | April 17, 2008, 12:35 am 12:35 am
craig,
you will find plenty of loyalty to obama on cnn and msnbc, and a whole host on newspapers that are all owned by the same company.
ac360, david gergen, candy crawley,chris matthews, keith olberman,
and in the am check out andrea mitchell and micka(?) on morning joe-they will all be blaming abc, hillary, and everyone else for obama’ poor showing tonight.
and probally by tomorrow afternoon-after he and his people meet with the msm-and work out exactly how they will spin it-obama will come out and blame abc and hillary.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:35 am 12:35 am
alison,
you never had any respect for sen.clinton from the beginning-who do you think you are fooling?
the wash. post. is kennedyland
I think we can all agree
it the smart girl (hillary does not get the nomination)
we can all get ready to say
President Mccain.
obama will never get my black vote
Obama will never be POTUS
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:42 am 12:42 am
obama if he wins will not win it fair and square
he has the media, the dnc, well you know
sen. clinton has had the deck stacked against her for a long time.
if obama wins-fair will never be associated with it.
goodnight
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 12:46 am 12:46 am
I give Hillary A, I give Obama C+
Posted by: echo | April 17, 2008, 12:47 am 12:47 am
why was Hillary even there? this was Obama vs. ABC News, and its been a long time coming. ABC should be ashamed of itself, that was what i would expect from FOX. at least when MSNBC where unfairly attacking hillary they were doing so on actual issues like NAFTA and not “so i heard you like puppies, but you dont own one”
Posted by: Vonda | April 17, 2008, 12:53 am 12:53 am
The Obamabots are in total freak out mode tonight because the cracks in their candidates just got bigger. The American people got to see a true champion of the American people in Hillary Clinton with her commanding knowledge of an array of issues and got just [stumbling] words from Barack Obama.
Posted by: LOM | April 17, 2008, 12:54 am 12:54 am
Because she’s so negative.
Obama 2008 — Yes, WE CAN!!!
Posted by: Jackt51 -- Vietnam Vet and Proud Liberal | April 17, 2008, 12:56 am 12:56 am
Tomorrow morning we’ll wake-up to the carefully calculated, negative spin on Hillary’s VICTORY in the debate. We can thank CNN, Huffington, MSM…..for their persistent irresponsible journalism. Sadly, it may just result in an easy hand-off to the Republicans.
Hillary can rest well tonight knowing ‘her voice’ for the people was beautifully revealed.
Millions heard it…millions BELIEVE it !
good-night.
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 12:58 am 12:58 am
This was the most pathetic debate I have ever witnessed. The first hour was spent on tabloid style gossip that had nothing to do with informing the American people about these candidates. It is apparent that ABC thinks the American public are idiots. Maybe we are to watch this travesty!
Posted by: Laurel Dean | April 17, 2008, 12:59 am 12:59 am
“This is what we do politically when we start getting behind in races, and we start going on the attack” – Senator Obama, April 15, 2008
After tonight’s debate, expect to see the Obama campaign and his supporters step up their attacks…after they are done licking their wounds.
Posted by: LOM | April 17, 2008, 1:00 am 1:00 am
Obama’s negatives are just as high as Hillary’s. But of course, the media ignore that.
The media have the highest negatives of all
YOU’RE CORRECT.I AGREE,
Posted by: NIcholas | April 17, 2008, 1:00 am 1:00 am
I just want to comment on tonight’s debate. Your debate moderators knew in exactly what order they were going to ask the questions…and they set up a debate that allowed Hillary Clinton extra time during the substantive questions in the second half while making Obama defend himself against your tabloid questions. ABC has lost all credibility. Whoever designed the above hit job should be fired from his own. There’s a fine future for him in the tabloid blogosphere.
Posted by: Dema | April 17, 2008, 1:08 am 1:08 am
The high point of this debate was when Senator Clinton stated that the Republicans, instead of pledging support to McCain, should apologize for the past 8 years and just concede to change for America with a Democrat in the White House! As Dan posted: Clinton and Obama joining hands and rising above mediocrity in moderation for the synonymous uneducated/Republicans!!
Posted by: Gibbs | April 17, 2008, 1:08 am 1:08 am
Pennsylvania might be coming up but she
is looking foolish and petty to many people who
once voted for her.
That would be me, in California.
That is not the same woman I voted for I will never
vote for her again. So she can steal the primary if
she wants but she will lose to McCain in a landslide.
Posted by: Ruth | April 17, 2008, 1:37 am 1:37 am
Obama’s negativity is as high as Hillary’s , and it might go up much higher than Hillary’s in the general election. The problem is that Obama currently gets a free ride from the media which constantly ignores his problems and ostensible mendacity. For example, Obama obviously lied about his handwriting in the questionnaire, yet ABA news just said that he forgot it. Hillary might have really forgotten about her bosnia trip yet the media treated her as if she’d robbed a bank. Obama has lied in many occasions, why doesn’t media report these? He lied in the SC debate that the relationship between him and Renzo is limited to the 5 hours of work. He lied about Rev. Wright and William Ayer…….. I feel really sick of this guy. Unfortunately I will not support the democratic party if he’s the nominee.
Posted by: Candy | April 17, 2008, 1:41 am 1:41 am
The “debate” on ABC tonight was a horror show, showcasing the absolute worst journalists have to offer the American people. Hardly ever touching on important issues the two moderators managed to make ABC look like a total ratings monger, I suppose it should really be no surprise but hopefully the little credibility the journalists and political has beens may have had prior is now shot. In a time when the mortgage crisis is ripping through America and gas prices are so high that food is becoming a luxury item for some americans ABC decides talking about misspoken words, rev wright, sniper fire, and worst question of the night, LAPEL PINS! seriously?
Posted by: sarah | April 17, 2008, 1:41 am 1:41 am
Why are Hillary’s negative ratings so high?
Maybe because she isn’t a very nice person – petty, nasty, untruthful. She certainly isn’t very likable.
Posted by: Sara | April 17, 2008, 1:42 am 1:42 am
Thank you Charlie Gibson and George Stephanopolous for a job well done. No doubt Senator Clinton won the debate. But, I also have no doubt that Charlie and George will be vilified by Obama zombies. However, I do applaud Obama for suggesting weeks ago he made a “boneheaded” move in forming a relationship with Tony Rezko,his neighbor. Now, what about Rev. Wright?
Posted by: Gary | April 17, 2008, 1:43 am 1:43 am
This is what happen when he got all the best treatments for so long and suddently he has to stand up by himself with no help from CNN,MSNBC.
All of his supporters also suffer from this . They have to face reality. It hurts.
If he want to go to the GE he has to prepare for this.
Posted by: crisis08 | April 17, 2008, 2:06 am 2:06 am
It is widely conceded this debate was a set up to make Clinton look good – intentional or not. Several negative questions could have been posed but she was only presented with Bosnia. People aren’t stupid. It appears there was some connivance with the hosts here.
Posted by: Uretha | April 17, 2008, 2:13 am 2:13 am
Thank you Charles Gibson, George S.
Good night.
Posted by: crisis08 | April 17, 2008, 2:15 am 2:15 am
Don’t trust her and she has provided all the negative evidence. People are beginning to read her. How could you have said “screw them” when it comes to white working class voters a few years ago and now present yourself as their champion? or vote for Nafta when it was on the table, and now argue against it? Or Have your husband and yourself receive $800,000.00 to get a new free trade deal 2008 to take more jobs out of America, and try to fool the unions that you are against another free trade agreement? She is full of contradictions not just the Sniper Story. I seriously believe something is wrong with her.
Posted by: Sherrie | April 17, 2008, 2:21 am 2:21 am
Congratulations ABC. Great debate! I think this is the first time that Barack Obama supporters have complained about a debate. They are not used to Barack Obama having to answer tough questions. It made them uncomfortable. They may not have liked questions concerning Wright, Ayers, or lapel pins, but these questions will surface again if Obama would happen to win the nomination. He will have to face John McCain. And the questions will only get worse.
But there were certainly other topics in the debate too. They both had to answer questions concerning the economy, taxes, foreign policy concerns, Iraq troop withdrawal plans, etc. I am glad to see that these questions were asked.
Hillary Clinton clearly won this debate. She has such an enormous grasp and comprehension of the issues that face our country — both foreign and domestic. She offers workable solutions. Barack Obama really isn’t ready to be president. He just doesn’t have enough experience. It showed tonight.
It is really shameful that the MSM has portrayed Hillary Clinton in such a negative light. They have gone to such extremes to discredit her and attack her relentlessly. She is by far the best person to lead our country out of the complete mess it is in. Hopefully Hillary Clinton will prevail and win this nomination.
Posted by: justice prevails | April 17, 2008, 2:30 am 2:30 am
ABC should be embarrassed about this debate. No questions on real issues for almost the first hour …. flag pin? really? How old is that? This was about the dirty “politics” as usual, only the instigators were the debate “moderators”. The reason Obama didn’t do well in this debate is that he wants to stay positive and focus on the issues. He wouldn’t even pile on Hillary’s Bosnia lie. He actually made an excuse for her. Hillary on the other hand …. this is what her campaign is about.
Now for Gibson and particularly Stephanopolous how do you have a debate in Pennsylvania and not talk free trade!!! Both campaigns had advisors that got into trouble, but Hillary’s top campaign stategist getting paid by the Columbian government to lobby to have the trade bill she supposedly is against passed. Though demoted, he is still working on her campaign!!! Didn’t think that was as important to the everyday people of Pennsylvania as whether Obama wears a flag lapel pin.
I’ve seen bad debates before but I don’t think I’ve seen one this bad where it was all about the moderators trying to “catch” the candidate rather than facilitating debate.
Posted by: Mark | April 17, 2008, 3:06 am 3:06 am
I am glad they both admitted they both could win against McCain,naturally she would say she was the better candidate. at least they both admitted they would support the nominee. this is a start in uniting the party for victory in November.
Posted by: merle7 | April 17, 2008, 3:30 am 3:30 am
I have yet to see John McCain wear a flag pin, our war hero POW.
Posted by: merle7 | April 17, 2008, 3:34 am 3:34 am
Always truthful,idealistic and honorable champion of the disadvantaged Hillary and negative perceptions about her?Hard to explain. However,the real conundrum is the erstwhile objective and honorable journalists Gibson and Stephanopoulos stooping to lowly Clinton lackeys.
Posted by: alex g chronis | April 17, 2008, 3:46 am 3:46 am
All I know is the Dems are screwed. McCain doesn’t have to raise a cent now. There’s no way either Hillary or Obama can win now. Thanks ABC!
Posted by: kevin of RI | April 17, 2008, 4:24 am 4:24 am
What a shame! That’s when I miss Peter Jennings. To spend an hour on rehashing the same words, what a waste! We all know she lied, what’s the point to spend 15 min on it? What a shame to take “bitter” statement out of context yet again. What a disgrace! As if there were no serious issues to discuss other than what we’ve heard a million times. Shame on ABC!
Posted by: alindra | April 17, 2008, 4:35 am 4:35 am
what a waste of time nothing on the the real issues just rehashing the same old “stuff” we knows she lies and we know about rev wright so what new??? all hill talked about what she did in the 90′s well this is a new era get over it and move on.
Posted by: michelle | April 17, 2008, 5:28 am 5:28 am
This is the worst “so-called” debate that I have ever witnessed. The moderators, G. Stephanopoulos and C. Gibson, were petty, un-professional and sickeningly appalling. If you are going to throw mud then throw it at the both of them and not just at one.
I am so turned off at ABC for allowing this that I no longer care to tune into any of their Network or Local news broadcasts.
We lost a lot when we lost Peter Jennings, like integrity!
Posted by: Anthony | April 17, 2008, 5:43 am 5:43 am
ABC’s Tabloid Debate is vying with Fox News — Stephanopolous got his debate coaching from Sean Hannity! Asking questions impossible for a candidate to give a satisfactory answer (“Does Rev. Wright love America as much as you?”…”Oh you don’t love America more than Rev. Wright?!” vs. “So you’re saying that Rev. Wright doesn’t love America?…”) is lousy journalism and an insult to your viewers.
Posted by: k miller | April 17, 2008, 6:56 am 6:56 am
This debate was the worst one ever.It was plain to see that George and Charles are supporters of Hilary.This was tabloid garbage.I will not watch another debate on ABC.
Posted by: eleanor | April 17, 2008, 7:24 am 7:24 am
ABC, has just lost me as a viewer.
Posted by: eleanor | April 17, 2008, 7:26 am 7:26 am
Your unprofessional and biased attempt to broker a professional and unbiased presidential debate has coverted me from fan of ABC to cable news. Shame on you ABC for pitting the candidates against each other in a an attempt to re-hash the already hashed in an attempt to broker ratings. What about the CUSTOMER who has been begging to hear more on the issues??? As Dr. Phil would say, “how did that work for ya?” Sounds like it’s time again for ABC to schedule some CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING because you are obviously, painfuly out of touch.
Posted by: elitist-too | April 17, 2008, 7:52 am 7:52 am
I was already skeptical going into the debate given that George S. was a moderator, with clear ties to the Clinton Family. Everyone should have saw that coming.
Last night was a disgrace to American media and the American people. ABC News is an embarrassment.
Posted by: Cory | April 17, 2008, 8:01 am 8:01 am
This debate did little to inform voters on the issues that are important. I was very disappointed that the ABC researchers did not read the positions of each candidate and formulate questions of substance rather than just grabbing headlines from the tabloids. If you thought you could get ratings by stirring old controversies, you do not respect your audience. No wonder ABC news is behind cable networks. Tim Russet, Chris Matthews and Jim Lehrer are so much better at hosting debates that ABC should be looking for new talent.
Posted by: Michaele | April 17, 2008, 8:03 am 8:03 am
The first hour of this debate was absolutely terrible. I would have liked to see Sam Donaldson with George S. as moderators, instead of Charlie. I think then the debate would have brought out more of the real issues.
Posted by: pt | April 17, 2008, 8:04 am 8:04 am
Jake
Although I don’t always agree with you…you should have run that debate last night.
Posted by: dl | April 17, 2008, 8:10 am 8:10 am
Based on the comments in this forum, Mrs. Clinton did better than Mr. Obama. Hardcore supporters will remain loyal but undecided voters will be affected. The “screw em’ comment wasn’t mentioned. Since it wasn’t directed @ PA voters, it’s less relevant. The Wright issue still gets attention. The relevance is that children were in the pews during the tirades. Such sermons are unsuitable for impressionable minors. It will get more attention during the GE. The promise to withdraw from Iraq, regardless of circumstance, will also be difficult to explain. It sounds good, but isn’t feasible. I think Mr. McCain was the real winner.
Posted by: texasdemocrat | April 17, 2008, 8:11 am 8:11 am
GREAT DEBATE…. I would say the best one we’ve had so far!!! Again, Hillary proved that she’s the ONE better prepared to lead… She also, once again, spoke with great calm and composure… That’s a stoical woman! Obama was nervoous throughout most of the debate.. as usual.. As for those “negatives”, I do NOT care…
Posted by: DMK | April 17, 2008, 8:13 am 8:13 am
I think the debate was a total farce with no substance except wanting more on the controversies surounding the candidates. One controversary pont that i would like to see answered rthat NOBODY has asked is of Sen. Clinton. The question is, “the certainty of of her memory regarding the Bosnia issue, she is so sure this fabrication occured and it was her slip of her memory about it being in Bosnia. Well if she is so certain of the story, just where did it occur? Or is this truely just a fabrication in every way?
Posted by: Lou | April 17, 2008, 8:14 am 8:14 am
I always watch ABC, Charlie Gibson is our modern day Walter Cronkite, and carrying on very well in Peter Jennings footsteps. Geo. has a very balanced program on-This Week-which comes on sunday am.
If obama is as clean as his supporters dream he is-he can stand a little vetting.
When some of the obama supporters complaining now about abc-complain about chris matthews, chuck todd, keith olberman, and all of the cast of CNN.
then we can talk. Because I have never read by any obama supporters-any complaints about we have are not getting the issues discussed because of the time they are spending on sen. clintons bosnia sniper fire comments.
Obama has the msm, the dnc, and all the money in behind him-and especially the media. you would not be saying obama had it hard last night if the msm had been doing its job all along.
We have seen the msm and the obama camp cannot be fair
and you obama fans have not said a word-if anything when it is sen. clinton and some non-issue about her-you cannot get enough fo the non-issue stuff.
so now that someone is doing what should have been done all along you have your backs up.
you cannot have it both ways.
but from here on out try to be fair and balanced. if you now want to talk issues
lets talk issues. and stop asking sen. clinton to talk about monica, and all of those non-issues. bill clinton had a trial on the national stage. tried and convicted- and now most of you want cont to try sen. clinton on it.
so lets stay with the issues-because this IS where sen. clinton shines the most. so, if you want to talk issues-
give obama a while to get up on issues.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:15 am 8:15 am
I am looking at the vote results (Who won the debate?) and I am laughing hysterically…. The majority thinks Obama won.. Yeah right!! The Obama campaign has instructed its loyal “bots” to keep checking his name… I watched the debate, AND even if I wasn’t a Hillary supporter, I would still say that SHE won the debate…
Posted by: DMK | April 17, 2008, 8:20 am 8:20 am
What was the point of a debate when the candidates weren’t asked to debate but rather duck slime, mostly aimed at one candidate? i’ve never been a fan the debate format anyway but last night was apparently a new low. Tele-journalism has really gone down since Edward Murrow hasn’t it? Gresham’s Law, I guess.
Posted by: John Shreffler | April 17, 2008, 8:21 am 8:21 am
George S. worked for Bill Clinton and this was supposed to be a fair debate. and all of the stupid questions, Obama could have just stayed home and watched it, they didn’t ask anything that would help with the problems out there…
Posted by: Bill | April 17, 2008, 8:21 am 8:21 am
I guess ABC is free to what it wants in this primary race. But the bias yesterday night was clear for everyone to see. The flag pin and Ayers question were incredible tabloid (or blog, LOL) stuff.
But most telling proof of what this all was about:
DURING THE DEBATE WE WERE SHOWN EIGHT CLOSE-UPS OF CHELSEA CLINTON!!
Propaganda tactics.
And yet, Hillary was able to shoot herself in her 2 feet again. She had the PERFECT opportunity to act as if she were an honest politician by defending her colleague Obama against ABC’s attacks. And yet – she was so dumb and mean to participate in the attacks (her TRUE honesty, I guess). All she gets now will be the backlash.
Good for her.
Posted by: ken | April 17, 2008, 8:22 am 8:22 am
lou, just proved my point, so lou did not want the issues talked about he wanted the first forty minutes to be talked about to Sen. Clinton on the Bosnia sniper fire-remark.
so it would not have been a farce if they had done last night to Sen.Clinton,
what chris matthews, cnn, msnbc and other all along-which really equals giving obama a pass.
he should have been vetted long ago.
if he had been we all know he would not hbe in the lead. and now his supporters do not want to hear anymore, why?
lou does not what issues-lou wants controversy surrounding sen. clinton, why?
try to be fair-you will live longer-you’ll keep your blood pressure down.
you cannot just want to cook up non issues about sen. clinton-and not expect some vetting of your guy.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:24 am 8:24 am
I remember the debates between Gore and Bush and almost every debate it was declared that Bush was the winner. Well america was the loser.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:25 am 8:25 am
Honest, Hillary is by far the better candidate. It just eludes me why obama people are voting for him!!
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:27 am 8:27 am
I still believe the media is wanting Obama, because they will get more mileage from him. He will simply screw up more and they can write more stories about him.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:29 am 8:29 am
Hillary’s negatives are high due to the media and there on going responses to negative facts and comments about her. Obama has them to, but due to race card, people leave it alone , afraid to be called racist. Obama is buying this election! He has the money to pay more supporters to get out the negative. He has made grave mistakes in his life ones that can and will affect the American people. Wait and see!
Posted by: jp,michigan | April 17, 2008, 8:38 am 8:38 am
honest,
Everybody has been fawning over how well obama speaks.
and to compare Sen. Clinton to Annie Oakley is a compliment.
Annie Oakley was a great lady.
she was given some trouble once.
when a young upstart of a shooter
tried to smear annie Oakley.
the upstart was found out-and sent packing And Annie Oakley continued her great career (that’ a true story-go look it up)
So obama comparing Sen. Clinton to Annie Oakley-may end up being prophetic also.
and once again obama supporters you want to talk about the issues that face us now-lets talk about them.
it is the obama supports this am talking about everything except the issues.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:38 am 8:38 am
DMK
sometimes people judge a debate on how someone answers hard questions…
I think most of America watched that debate and …no matter who you supported …anyone could see it didn’t smell right… I heard from several friends at the networks and newspapers (who are Hillary and McCain backers and even they) they said the debate seemed a little fishy they had to admit. For whatever reason…
and I think America looks with all of that “pile-on” and crap thrown at Obama last night not only did it seem biased and off topic for a Prsidential debate …but Obama handled himself impressively considering all the tabloid crap that was thrown.
Hillary won the debate if you didn’t notice a leaning toward attacks on Obama (how many times did Charlie Gibson apologize to sen Clinton after asking Obama about some scandal issue that has been beaten…and asked Clinton one of those “baggage” quesrtions that even she referred to at the end of the debate)…Obama doesn’t play that way and America knows it.
Posted by: dl | April 17, 2008, 8:41 am 8:41 am
I think the questions were asked to shed light on issues that would be brought up for the general election. If you don’t like the questions now, you are really not going to like them coming from the republicans.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 8:47 am 8:47 am
if the msm had been doing its job and being fair and balanced vetting both candidates equally-last night would not have smelled fishy.
It only seemed strange because everyone has gotten use to the media giving obama a pass. they know that has been the tone of the rest of the networks and cable.
Once again if the media had not been piling it on trying to bring sen. clinton down all along-last night would not have been fishy.
and all of the media people and obama supporter trying to spin again for obama
are mad because they have just had a mirror held up to their face.
no matter what comes out about obama-or how he does not know the issues-and copies sen. clinton on the issues.
the msm always tries to turn it on sen. clinton. just as they will do now.
and if you obama people and msm didn’t but know it-the more you pile it on to sen. clinton-the better you make her look-because fair minded people-who keep their own counsel-can see what is going on.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 8:51 am 8:51 am
There’s been numerous references to Jake being biased and in HIllary’s court. Wrong ! I’ve been checking into this sight the entire season and CLEARLY JAKE is not in favor of Hillary (look at the timeliness of the current post….right after the debate began). I check in here so I don’t formulate my opinions in a vacuum, It’s “comfortable” to stay on sites where HIllary is primarily supported or for others to watch CNN, MSM , read Huffington….and watch their man Obama elevated night after night….day after day. I appreciate Tapper for diving a little deeper into the headlines. I don’t always like his persistent scrutiny of Hillary, or the Hillary camp.. Bill, etc but so be it. I know that I am better informed about all the candidates after I’ve checked into Punch and therefore believe my vote is a well-informed vote. Thanks, Jake.
HILLARY ’08
Posted by: catherine in nm | April 17, 2008, 8:56 am 8:56 am
The same voters that voted for Bush will vote for obama. My children will never have a good future.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 9:00 am 9:00 am
Today I was listening to public broadcast radio and the discussion pertained to the days of only three networks reporting the news. These networks were respectable and people believed in them. And as the program went on to say, that is not the case today, more people watch American Idol than the major news network combined. The type of journalism I observed last night on ABC was very disturbing and explains why people are looking elsewhere to get the real news. This was not a debate of issues or policies, it was a debate that George S. used in an attempt to help his friend Hillary gain votes. My grandparents and parents would turn over in their graves to see how ABC has lowered their standards to those of Fox News. Wearing a flag pin on one’s lapel doesn’t demonstrate patriotism…how one conducts themselves does. I can imagine our founding father’s disgust at the unpatriotic use of such a patriotic venue to enhance ABC’s own political agenda. This debate was held in a very unprofessional manner and disrectable to viewers who took time out of their busy lives to learn more about the issues and policies each candidate stood for but instead got rehashing of old issues. Shame on you ABC…you were the network my grandparents and parents trusted when they were living and I had followed in their footsteps. Your reputation will forever be tarnished in my eyes because of this debate. I have lost respect for you and can no longer trust your reporting as being the truth, your network will no longer be welcomed in my home.
Posted by: Lynn | April 17, 2008, 9:01 am 9:01 am
and one more point, if you have been watching geo. step. program on sunday mornings-you will see-He does not give Sen. Clinton a pass.
Posted by: jgaw | April 17, 2008, 9:02 am 9:02 am
I THINK IT IS INTERESTING TO SEE HOW THE OBAMA CAMPAIN IS WHINING ABOUT THE DEBATE LAST NIGHT. THE OBAMA SUPPORTERS HAVE BEEN BRAINWASHED BY MSNBC’S CHRIS MATTHEWS AND KIETH OBERMAN AND CREW, AS WELL AS SO THE SELF PROCLAIMED BEST POLITICAL TEAM IN TV’S CNN CREW OTHER THAN LOU DOBBS. HILLARY CLINTON HAS BEEN SUBJECT TO ATTACKS SINCE THE BEGINING OF THIS ELECTION SEASON BY THE BIG CABLE NEWS OUTLETS, AND OBAMA HAS BEEN THE BENEFICIARY TO THE MOST ONE SIDED FAVORABLE COVERAGE I HAVE EVER SEEN IN ELECTION COVERAGE.I THINK SENATOR CLINTON ACTUALLY LET OBAMA OFF THE HOOK LAST NIGHT AS SHE COULD HAVE REALLY DUG IN AND ATTACKED HIM, BUT SHE CHOSE NOT TO.HE THEN TRIED TO DEFLECT THE ATTENTION TO HER SEVERAL TIMES LAST NIGHT WHENEVER HE WAS ASKED A TOUGH QUESTION AND UNFOTUNATLY HE CHANGED TOPIC AND SPEWED RHETORIC ALL NIGHT AGAIN.I WAS ANNOYED BY HIM AS HE TRIED TO ACCUSE HER OF ATTACKING HIM ALL WEEK FOR COMMENTS THAT “OBAMA MADE BEHIND CLOSED DOORS” AND WHERE RELEASED BY ONE OF HIS OWN FUNDRAISER’S, AND HE STILL REFUSED TO ISSUE A PUBLIC APOLOGY BY SAYING TWO LITTLE WORDS “IM SORRY” JUST LIKE SENATOR CLINTON SAID LAST NIGHT ABOUT BOSNIA.HE NEEDS TO BE SCRUTINIZED AND IT SHOWS THAT HE WILL NOT BE READY WHEN THE REPUBLICANS CONTINUE ATTACKING HIM THRU THE ELECTION SEASON WHICH JOHN MCCAIN HAS PROMISED HE WILL CONITNUE TO DO.HE SNICKERED AT HER ALL WEEK CALLING HER ANNIE OAKLEY AND IS OUTSPENDING HER NOW 5-1 IN PENNSYLVANIA/INDIANA AND I FEEL AS A CLINTON SUPPORTER THAT HER KNOWLEDGE OF EVERY TOPIC POSED TO HER IS SO IN TUNE WITH THIS COUNTRY’S NEEDS THAT IT WOULD BE A TERRIBLE MISTAKE NOT TO APPOINT HER TO TAKE ON JOHN MCCAIN. HE WILL CERTAINLY BE A FORMIDABLE APPONENT AND BELIEVE ME EXPERIENCE WILL MATTER IN THIS ELECTION. IN CLOSING I APPLAUD YOU FOR THE GREAT JOB ABC DID WITH THIS DEBATE AND HOPE IN THE FUTURE YOU WILL DO MORE DEBATES. THANK YOU ABC, ERNIE ROKOSE MANCHESTER, NJ
Posted by: ERNIE | April 17, 2008, 9:19 am 9:19 am
cause she’s losing and she’s on the attack
Posted by: cordelia525 | April 17, 2008, 9:24 am 9:24 am
OBVIOUSLELY LYNN IS OUT OF TOUCH AND DOES NOT UNDERSTAND THE MEDIA THAT YOUR GRANDPARENTS WOULD TURN OVER IN THEIR GRAVES IF THEY SAW WOULD BE MSNBC OR CNN’S COVERAGE.I SAW SIMON OF AMERICAN IDOL COMPARE TODAYS COVERAGE BY THESE MEDIA MOGULS TO HIS OWN SHOW AND HE SAID THAT OUR ELECTION TODAY IS TAKING ON THE SAME LOOK OF AMERICAN IDOL
Posted by: ERNIE | April 17, 2008, 9:27 am 9:27 am
WELL SAID MY COUNTRY!
Posted by: ERNIE | April 17, 2008, 9:45 am 9:45 am
It is funny that Hilary is not far left enough for the libs that they support Obama that tels no truths who is the most Marxist!
Posted by: spock | April 17, 2008, 10:04 am 10:04 am
Why in the world is Senator Obama being condemned for not wearing a flag pin? Does Hillary wear one? NO! Does the war hero and POW McCain wear one? NO! So, what is the probem? Why aren’t Hillary and the war hero not being condemned for NOT wearing flag pins? Or is it that ONLY Senator Obama has to PROVE HIS PATIOTISM? He is an American citizen and he definitely loves his country! The flag pin is a none issue. How many of your wear flag pins? I doubt 99.9 percent of the population do NOT wear one!! I think the media needs to drop this issue entirely; however, if the want to keep coming back to it, why don’t you ask Hillary and McCain, the war hero, why thet do NOT wear flag pins?
Posted by: NinaK | April 17, 2008, 12:13 pm 12:13 pm
“It is funny that Hilary is not far left enough for the libs that they support Obama that tels no truths who is the most Marxist!”
Next time, try making your post in Engrish please.
Please, it’s irrelevant how far left or right she says she is. We don’t support her because whatever position she takes, we’ll never know if its actually the truth she’s telling. It’s practically a family sport with these folks. That’s why the media jumps on everything she says “Hillary just said the sky is blue… Better look that one up, just to make sure…”
Posted by: fontapa | April 17, 2008, 12:26 pm 12:26 pm
I just have to laugh at Hillary supporters, the so called “Archie Bunker” types, and the angry, old Feminists, and of course, the good old, “fear of a black man” stalwarts. Quite amazing, they are. All fired up in their support of her, regardless of the fact that there is no way in purgatory that she can win the General. No Way! Do you understand this fact? No way! I have got to suspect that most of her supporters that vehemently believe that she can win are those who also believe in time travel. She will magically transport all of us back to the 90s, with the same economic and political conditions. She’s on record as intending to bring back the same players from that time, so obviously she believe this as well. Fortunately, most Americans don’t believe in time travel, and know that she has absolutely no chance, (just like her electoral chances), of achieving most of her campaign promises. Actually, I have to thank ABC, after watching that debate, it is clear now that if Hillary somehow manages to wrest the nomination from Obama, that the Republicans will be once again in full control of both houses and the White House. Why? Because it’s better to select and vote for ACTUAL Republicans that it is to choose a fake one. And Hillary is indeed a fake! I also believe that most of the supporters that blog on her behalf, (outside of her normal delusional supporters), are fellow Republicans who will take great joy in watching her go down in flaming defeat and finally rid the political landscape of the Clinton’s and their ilk!
Posted by: Merl | April 17, 2008, 12:29 pm 12:29 pm
merl, I would sooner believe in time travel than Barack Obama.
Posted by: democraticprocess | April 17, 2008, 12:34 pm 12:34 pm
Hillary dominates Philadelphia focus group. “NYDIA HAN: The real take away is this. We now know who won the debate according to our focus group. Take a look. Senator Clinton is the debate winner, at least according to our focus group. 23% believe Senator Obama won while 50% believed Senator Clinton won.” [WPVI Post-Debate Analysis, 4/16/08]
ABC News’ Rick Klein – ‘Clinton is back to the strong presence we saw early in the cycle.’ [ABC News Political Radar, 4/16/08]
NBC News’ Chuck Todd – Obama ‘did not have a good night.’ [MSNBC Post-Debate Analysis, 4/16/08]
NBC News’ Chuck Todd—Obama’s answer on Ayers and the flag ‘were simply weak.’ “His answer on Ayers and the flag question were simply weak; He seemed unprepared for them; Kinda surprising because he normally has a decent rant against “old politics” and yet “old politics” questions seemed to stump him.” [NBC First Read, 4/16/08]
The Atlantic’s Marc Ambinder – [T]here’s no way Obama could fared worse. [The Atlantic’s Marc Ambinder, 4/16/08]
Washington Post’ Chris Cillizza — Obama ‘struggled quite a bit’ when asked about Rev. Wright. “…He struggled quite a bit more when asked to answer for Wright, his former pastor.” [Washington Post, The Fix, 4/16/08]
New York Times’ Katharine Seeyle: Hillary’s ‘in her element as she goes into details.’ “She’s becoming expansive, seemingly in her element as she goes into details; Mr. Obama does not look as thrilled to be still standing there.” [New York Times, The Caucus, 4/16/08]
Talking Points Memo’s Josh Marshall – Hillary ‘certainly seems more self-assured.’ “She certainly seems more self-assured on the Iran question than Obama did. The question of extending an American security umbrella to Israel is very dicey. And he could clearly see he was on delicate territory.” [Talking Points Memo, 4/16/08]
Philadelphia Inquirer blog – ‘Obama is again less certain, and rambles a bit.’ “Obama is again less certain, and rambles a bit when asked about the Washington D.C. gun ban. Gibson asks him to deny that he has ever advocated a complete ban on hand guns in 1996. Obama says no. But whatever the truth, no other answer is possible.” [Philadelphia Inquirer Blog, 4/16/08]
NBC News’ Matthew Berger – Obama ‘tried to have it both ways’ with Israel. “Obama’s answer on an Iranian attack on Israel tried to seem to have it both ways: highlight his support for Israel but not lock him into treating an attack on Israel like an attack on the U.S. But it may have looked more like a no because it wasn’t a firm yes. Clinton’s answer seemed more direct.” [NBC First Read, 4/16/08]
Posted by: DMK | April 17, 2008, 3:07 pm 3:07 pm
Same old business as usual. People taking sides based on biases, predudice, offiliation, etc. WAKE UP!!! We must get past trivial nonsense and move on to higher thinking. Does anyone out there believe this kind of behavior will get them to heaven? I believe Senator Obama is going to be our next President, ordained by God. I just pray no harm will come to this wonderful man, which is the history in this country. What an embarassment. If any thing does happen to him it will proven what we already know; the intimidation some show towards a particular person or sect of people, who have never done anything to compare to what has been done to them, continue to experience maltreatment. So what would be their argument for objecting besides the obviuos?
Posted by: onenamill | April 17, 2008, 4:49 pm 4:49 pm
Why do I think her negatives are so high? How much time have you got?
Posted by: Tom J | April 17, 2008, 6:01 pm 6:01 pm
i really believe that it is a sad state of affairs when elections in this great country come down to who can smear whom.senators clinton and obama are both an asset to the democratic party. i am saddened that senator clinton has stooped so low as to attack senator obama at all costs. senator obama handled himself very well in last night’s debate by not rising to the bait and attacking senator clinton at every opportunity. sentor clinton’s desperation is showing by the amount of attacks that she is levelling at obama. i am sick of the garbage from each canidate. tell me what can you do for someone like me who was forced to go on disability because of injury and not able to work. tell me how you propose to make a way for me to live on $700 monthly with cost of living skyrocketing and my income not able to meet the demands. i could care less about reverend wright, he’s already been explained. talk to me about issues that mean something besides silly political posturing.
Posted by: angie | April 17, 2008, 8:19 pm 8:19 pm
It always amazed me why the American people have to “like” their President. An unliked candidate may make a super President.
Posted by: George Jordan | April 18, 2008, 9:45 am 9:45 am
The ABC debate.
For the first time in my adult live I was proud of ABC. Way to go Charles and George!
Hutchinson
Posted by: Hutchinson | April 18, 2008, 5:21 pm 5:21 pm