Obama Warms up to Women on the Trail
EmailABC News’ Jennifer Duck reports: Sen. Barack Obama made a strong appeal to women in Albuquerque, N.M., today, just days before hitting the trail with Sen. Hillary Clinton.
The one-time Democratic rivals will join forces on Thursday in Washington, D.C., at a fundraiser and appear publicly on Friday stumping in the appropriately named Unity, N.H.
In New Mexico today, Obama was introduced by New Mexico Lt. Gov. Diane Denish, who admitted she was a Clinton supporter before Obama officially clinched the nomination three weeks ago. Obama praised Clinton as an "extraordinary woman" and spoke of an America full of equal opportunities for men and women.
"Standing here today, I know that we have drawn closer to making this America because of extraordinary women like the lieutenant governor and the first lady [of New Mexico, Barbara Richardson] and the extraordinary woman who I shared a stage with so many times throughout this campaign –- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton," Obama said to the small roomful of women. "In the months and years ahead, I look forward to working with her and women across the country to make progress on the issues that matter to American women and to all American families -– health care, education, support for working parents and an insistence on equality."
He criticized Sen. John McCain, his likely opponent in the presidential campaign, who he said does not support a number of policies that are important for women’s rights.
Obama also talked about his "rock" — his wife Michelle, and being raised by his single mother and "Rose the Riveter" grandmother.
But not all women were a quick sell on an Obama presidency. Tough questions were tossed to the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee on healthcare, Pell grants and taxes. One woman asked bluntly if the senator would follow through on his political talking points and get things done.
Obama responded that it is his family who grounds him and explained he wouldn’t run for commander-in-chief unless he knew it was worthwhile.
"I’m always comparing is what I’m doing, running for president, or even being president, worth the sacrifice of not being with my family. And the only way it makes it worthwhile is if I’m actually getting something done. Because if you’re not getting something done then it’s all just vanity," Obama explained.
He launched into his run-ins with fame, saying he’d be OK without the limelight.
"You know, I’ve gotten more than enough attention to last me a lifetime now. I mean if I just kind of pulled back I’d be OK. I’ve done Letterman, I’ve done the ‘Daily Show,’ been on the cover of Rolling Stone."
Transitioning to what he says matters, Obama reached into his pocket and pulled out a number of lucky charms given to him by voters who he said have been "investing their hope" in him.
"This side I usually don’t show in these town hall meetings, but I carry around all these — I have all these things that people give me … all these different little good luck charms that I get handed," Obama said, turning a handful of shiny objects toward the semi-circle of seated women.
Among the charms was an eagle given to him by a Native American woman and a lucky poker chip given to him by another voter who met him on the campaign trail.
Obama explained, "They’ll hand it to you and they’ll say I want you to be well but I want you to fight for me. And they’ll talk about not having healthcare for their family. Or they’ll talk about being laid off of a job after working for 20 years."
Sen. DeMint: GOP Race Could Go Until Convention 
Obama Avoids Questions on Contraception Rule
Most women are too smart to be fooled by the Republicans’ phony promises to women. Women know there’s only one candidate running in Nov that will really help improve their lives, protect their reproductive rights, fight for a level playing field, and that’s the DEMOCRAT, Sen Obama. It’s was amusing while it lasted, McCain, but trust me, WOMEN are for OBAMA. Case closed.
Posted by: dem in chicago | June 23, 2008, 9:45 pm 9:45 pm
Don’t be fooled by the dirty Chicago-style hype! Go to http://www.womenamericans.com for all the facts. Just Say No Deal!!!
Posted by: gaypastor | June 23, 2008, 9:50 pm 9:50 pm
Does obama still address women as “sweetie?” He’s coming to Carnegie Mellion University in Pgh. I guess he’s looking for more white people.
Posted by: Russ | June 23, 2008, 9:55 pm 9:55 pm
It will take more than a little smooth talking to get this Sweetie’s vote. I am thoroughly disgusted with the Democratic Party and having Obama stuffed down my throat. This time I feel free to vote Green!
Posted by: Kasha | June 23, 2008, 9:59 pm 9:59 pm
Russ,
Many women don’t mind being called “sweetie”. It’s more of the tone being used that counts.
You’re a man you could never know.
Obama has the women vote.
It’s really disgracful when John McCain says he cares for women issues and votes against equal pay citing women need “training”.
Women work just as hard if not harder then men. Especially working mothers.
Obama has a wife and two daughters. I’m positive he’ll fight for women issues.
Posted by: Vanessa | June 23, 2008, 10:01 pm 10:01 pm
Why can’t I find ONE reason to vote for this man. So far, I have found 100 reason not to vote for him. And in this speech to women, he is pandering again. Ladies, don’t believe him. He is just a corrupt politican from Chicago.
Posted by: Mary | June 23, 2008, 10:06 pm 10:06 pm
You just have to vote Obama. He is black and so tall and sexy. Even in Milan they are dressing their people like Obama. Politics are second hand to the change that we need. Please lets all go this way for a better America. We cannot stand one ore white man to lead our coutry.
Deb
Posted by: Deb | June 23, 2008, 10:17 pm 10:17 pm
Mary – John McCain wouldn’t p*ss on fire to put you out. He’s a republican. The Republican party run by and run for white men. They believe women, like minorities, have their place and it sure as heck isn’t in positions of power or influence.
Posted by: JimmyTMac | June 23, 2008, 10:18 pm 10:18 pm
The economy and Iraq are not just men’s issues. I’m getting a bit insulted that candidate’s seem to think all women base their decision on Roe vs. Wade. We are mother’s with children in Iraq; we are paying $4 a gallon to put gas in our cars to get to our own jobs; we are single homeowner’s looking at foreclosure; we are nearing retirement and wondering if Social Security and Medicare will still be there for us – we have more on our plate then just “women’s issues”. I’d like to think we put more thought in to our vote then ” Hillary lost so I’ll vote McCain” or “the Republicans all stink so I’ll vote Obama” or ” Obama is hot” or “I just want change and I won’t bother to looks and see what that change will be”. I’d like to think we can sift through both candidate’s positions, records, experience, our assessment of their character and anything else we deem important, and will then make an intelligent decision whether that leads to Obama or McCain.
As Obama has pointed out on several occasions the Dems don’t have a monopoly on good ideas and the same would apply the other way around. This nonsense that McCain supporters are all racists, war mongers and old farts and that Obama supporters are barely out of high school, living off their parent’s credit cards and naive and too idealistic is ludicrous.
Posted by: alpaig | June 23, 2008, 10:21 pm 10:21 pm
Obama just shows what a pathetic panderer he is. PUMA!
Posted by: SadStateOfAffairs | June 23, 2008, 10:22 pm 10:22 pm
No no no He is a proud man that will change America for the better. We can’t take no more white people. We need to give the black people a chance through diversity.
Posted by: Deb | June 23, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm
JimmyMac What about Condoleeza Rice? Actually you need to check your facts. I’m not a George W supporter in the least but Bush has the dubious distinction of having appointed more women and minorities to high-level positions within his administration than any other US President.
Posted by: alpaig | June 23, 2008, 10:28 pm 10:28 pm
Obama’s “get over it” comment says it all. As a woman I feel like saying the same every time he pulls out his race card.
Posted by: Not4Obama | June 23, 2008, 10:37 pm 10:37 pm
alpaig,
I know he has but Obama will change more. He will appoint more black people to cabinet position and the court. Everthting will be more brown, which we need. Black people know how to do politics. Do your history. I love Obama the man and god bless Michael.
Posted by: Deb | June 23, 2008, 10:37 pm 10:37 pm
Yes and if John McCain said the same thing would you call it “pandering”?
Obama has stood up for women rights and issues. Not John McCain.
Posted by: PUMA (Poor uneducated miserable adults) | June 23, 2008, 10:40 pm 10:40 pm
“He will appoint more black people to cabinet position and the court. Everthting will be more brown, which we need. Black people know how to do politics. ” Deb, that’s called racism. Your statement is full of bigotry and prejudice. Your bigotry is disgusting.
Posted by: Jeff | June 23, 2008, 10:43 pm 10:43 pm
alpaig – A few “token” appointments are hardly enough to mask the true rotten racist and sexist history of the GOP. They may appease women and minorities from time to time but we know they’d really rather we stayed in our place. You can bet that GOP will never nominate a woman or minority for president.
Posted by: JimmyTMac | June 23, 2008, 10:52 pm 10:52 pm
Deb is either a McCain supporter or a Clinton supporter
Posted by: Vanessa | June 23, 2008, 10:56 pm 10:56 pm
Rose,
I see your last name is Polish. All of Poland is WHITE. You even threw bananas at the black Arficas that played on the National Team. We need more black people to lead the world. The arts, economic systems and harmony are so much better in black controlled governments. Just look at Africa and the Islands of the Carib. Would not you like to live in these paridises? I just like the fun.
Posted by: Deb | June 23, 2008, 10:57 pm 10:57 pm
Vanessa, I am an American supporter. My parody is for thought and not blind dumb support for shallow and inexperinced media propoganda. When my capital gains dry up as Obama wants to suck up, is when I will stop investing in America. It is ironic that I will be pusuing business with our current American Allie in Poland. However I better hurry that could change with an Obama election. The Poles will once again be against all odds. Rose Szymanski – lets talk!
Posted by: deb | June 23, 2008, 11:08 pm 11:08 pm
All the CNN guys were laughing the Obama seal today. I think they all should apoligize for they’r unrespectfulnes, or they all should get fired.They may be just a bunch of racist idiots.
Posted by: Lucy | June 23, 2008, 11:10 pm 11:10 pm
alpaig – I am a women and, yes, all the issues you cited affect everyone, including Roe and Brown. Further, I have sifted through both candidates’ positions and I have made my decision: I am voting for Hillary Clinton!
Posted by: Jeanne | June 23, 2008, 11:16 pm 11:16 pm
Obama can pander all he wants, but he will NEVER get this Hillary supporter’s vote. Dean and Pelosi, et al, have made a huge mistake.
Posted by: Cardsgal | June 23, 2008, 11:25 pm 11:25 pm
JimmyTMac Both the Dems and Repubs have consisted of primarily white men throughout the course of our history so when Dems appointed women or minorities those weren’t “tokens”? Do you really think Ferraro was the best candidate out there for VP for Mondale? She’s even said her being put on the ticket was a symbolic gesture. I doubt Rice’s appointment as Secretary of State was a mere “token”. I also firmly believe, as do many others, that had Colin Powell at one point (pre- the UN speech about Iraq) seriously considered a Presidential run that I think he would have probably gotten the Republican nomination and potentially the Presidency. He opted to not run though.
For those for whom race is an issue a
conservative African-American would be far less of an issue then a liberal
African American.
Posted by: alpaig | June 23, 2008, 11:49 pm 11:49 pm
If you view the voting records of John McCain and other conservatives, JimmyTMac is correct.
Why would John McCain vote against equal pay for women and cite women need “training”.
Posted by: Vanessa | June 23, 2008, 11:58 pm 11:58 pm
Sorry Melissa–guess I was carried away after reading so many posts from irrational Obama supporters. Those blogs was where I picked up those not-so-nice-expression that has been used against supporters of Clinton and McCain. Let’s call a truce.
The white flag is up.
Posted by: Mary | June 24, 2008, 12:16 am 12:16 am
hey at least obama did not insult our lt. gov with his typical sexist remarks like ‘get over it’ or ‘sweetie’.
Posted by: sonia trevino | June 24, 2008, 12:19 am 12:19 am
deb sorry i just read some of your other posts and realize the parody intended. it just sounds SOOOOOOOO obama lol
Posted by: sonia trevino | June 24, 2008, 12:38 am 12:38 am
Plays the violin for Obama
Best play 2 of them for Michelle, her kids only care where she is at bedtime.
I grew up dirt poor, but I always knew where my mom was, not just at bed time. My dearest memories were all of us playing games sitting around the kitchen table all evening, cuddling with mom on the sofa watching TV. etc,
I wonder how much the make over is going to cost the Obama’s. Those poor people donating money so they can make a new image of themselves, reinvent themselves
learn how to be someone they are not. What gives.
Were they fakes before or now?
We do not want this kind of crap for a president.
It is a serious Position. Not a popularity contest like the obama’s seem to think.
They need mental health
Psychotherapy (773) 684-1800 Hyde Park area
Obama followers pass this on to them.
Posted by: seah | June 24, 2008, 12:43 am 12:43 am
What a suck up. No change. Politics as usual.
Posted by: Mike | June 24, 2008, 1:14 am 1:14 am
Vanessa:
“Many women don’t mind being called “sweetie”. It’s more of the tone being used that counts.
You’re a man you could never know.
Obama has the women vote.”
I’m a woman, and I mind it!
I’m a woman; he’s NOT got MY vote!
I’m a WORKING WOMAN with four kids and a lot of friends but the ONLY one I want to call me “sweetie”… is my “sweetie”!
Obama suffers from a serious case of megalomania; you’d better rein him in before he becomes dangerous..
well, at least before he upsets members of every race, creed and sex with his unthinking, unfeeling gaffes!
Hillary was the best!
Most of her followers wioll N O T be casting their vote for B O.
So sorry, but
Posted by: eyes wide open | June 24, 2008, 1:34 am 1:34 am
Looks like he tried to charm women.
Becareful…
Posted by: catleya | June 24, 2008, 1:50 am 1:50 am
LOL
Obama desperate for woman votes.
Obama sucks and will be a horrible President.
Most woman are not taken in by his mind games.
He might be able to run his smooth hynotic trans like mind conditioning on some fools, but most woman are immune to it.
We sense a creep and know when someone lies about their own family and friends.
They care about anything, except themselves.
Playing 10 year old school boy games. shows you are not worth anyones vote.
This new game of remaking yourself is to the point of disgust. Do you really think Americans are so stupid.
Go away Obama and take the koolaide kids with you.
Posted by: seah | June 24, 2008, 2:02 am 2:02 am
If Obama’s wife catches him “warming to women” on the campaign trail, she’ll cut his gonads off
Posted by: malach hamovess | June 24, 2008, 2:15 am 2:15 am
Obama can’t walk the walk. Interesting data taken from the Report of the Secretary of the Senate, which covered the six-month period ending Sept. 30, 2007.
Non-intern female employees did better working on the Senate staffs of John McCain and Hillary Clinton during the latest public reporting period than they did working for Barack Obama, Cybercast News Service determined through an analysis of payroll data published by the Secretary of the Senate.
Both McCain and Clinton also employed more female than male staffers, while Obama employed more males than females.
Also, McCain and Clinton had more female than male staffers making six-figure salaries, while Obama had more male than female staffers making six-figure salaries.
Obama is a johnny come lately to anything involving women’s issues having voted “present” to each of the issues dealing with a woman’s right to choose while serving in Illinois.
Let’s reflect a woman’s right to choose in November and vote “no” to Obama.
Posted by: beebop | June 24, 2008, 6:00 am 6:00 am
The only way this man can warm to me and get my vote is if he choses Hillary as his running mate (VP) or else I type Hillary in come november!!!!!
Posted by: Rose Szymanski | June 24, 2008, 6:19 am 6:19 am
It would be great if McCain would select a strong woman like Kay Bailey Hutchison to be his VP. I think it would really change the dynamics of the race.
Posted by: Asia2PA | June 24, 2008, 6:37 am 6:37 am
No Hillary as VP – no vote for Obama.
Simple as that……
Posted by: ch | June 24, 2008, 8:09 am 8:09 am
Sorry, I just can’t “get over it.” And as a woman and a mother, I’m having a hell of a time “getting over” Obama’s full support and backing of partial birth abortions. These are live, breathing infants that are killed. Wait, did I call them infants, oops, according to Obama they are problems. The original Family Guy.
Posted by: Embarrassed Dem | June 24, 2008, 9:36 am 9:36 am
—JimmyTMac—Why make such an outlandish remark about Senator McCain and the Republicans. Did you go to THE OBAMA FINISHING SCHOOL for campaign workers and supporters?
JimmyTMac, you are an idiot.
Posted by: Maggie | June 24, 2008, 1:25 pm 1:25 pm
Women don’t get fooled by the flip flopping, arrogant, condescending, inexperienced Obama. Remember his former pastor/mentor said it better, “Obama is a typical politician that would say anything to win the elections”. he also started adding more women to his campaign only after he realized he needed to look good and attract women voters. Why didn’t he have more women from the beginning if he is so inclusive and a uniter? It’s just theater tricks. Don’t get fooled into voting for a fake and someone that would say anything to win. Just Say No To Obama!
Posted by: Persio | June 24, 2008, 2:42 pm 2:42 pm
He can warm up all he wants. I and no woman I know is warming up to him. He traded on sexism to win. There is no longer any such thing as a man who is good or bad for women; would anyone say that anymore of a white candidate for blacks? No. Only the genuine article will do, and I am waiting for 2012 to get it. Obama in the driver’s seat? He doesn’t even have his temporary license.
Posted by: SullivanGrandfield | June 25, 2008, 2:37 am 2:37 am
“Get over It”, “There’s no place else for them to go” and the infamous ‘Hillary can’t run her own house….’from Mrs. Obama.
Isn’t the difference between Michelle Obama and Hillary startling? Take a look back at Mrs. Obama saying that she would have to ‘ think about’ supporting Hillary if HC was the nominee. For Michelle it depended on the ‘tone’ of Senator Clinton.
Compare that to the
speech Senator Clinton gave when she conceded. This week she will be campaigning with Obama in New Hampshire. Hillary’s grace and professionalism is in high contrast to Mrs. Obama childish remarks, rants and raves.
I don’t see any reason why women would support B.O.
Complementing Hillary at this stage of the game is disingenuous at best.
Of course with BO’s flip flops on FISA and declining matching funds for the November election shows that he cannot and should not be trusted. Everything this guy says is suspect.
Obama’s arrogance shines through when he claims that women will gather around him or follow the Dean/Brazile monster machine to the polling place. . My suggestion to Obama…. IT’S NOT GOING TO HAPPEN – GET OVER IT.
Posted by: blenko | June 25, 2008, 7:29 am 7:29 am