Good evening Anderson and bloggers!

Hi Anderson. Looking forward to the polygamy segment.

Good evening Anderson, Erica and Blogger. Happy Hump Day! Blogging for two hours….oh happy day! Will we get web cam for 2 hours too?

Anderson are you watching the debate on the tvs in the desk? The debate was quiet interesting.

Erica hopefully your alittle warmer tonight in the studio.

Hello Anderson, Erica, and Bloggers!
Happy Wednesday!

Wow, 2 hours tonight. Thanks for the treat!

Looking forward to the show as always. Little disappointed to still see the FLDS making it to the lineup, I’m a bit tired of blogging about it.

Ugh polls.

Happy Hump Day, Everyone!

-ha Anderson, you told Larry King great show, as if you were awake to watch!

The debate has yet to air out here in Calif. I guess I’ll hear the after debate talk, before the debate. Then I’ll have to decide if the second hour of ac360 is worth missing the debate. Oh that Pacific time zone..

Good Evening everybody! Hope it’s a great show!!!!!!!

Good evening, bloggers. Good evening, Erica. How are you? Hey, your piece on John McCain is finally going to be aired tonight, isn’t it? I’ve been looking forward to that piece.:)

hillary just talks circles around obama ……………………..he is in big trouble

Hi everyone. Looking forward to the show tonight - 2 hours?

Good evening, Anderson, Erica, and all!

Hi Anderson, Erica and bloggers…I just watched the debate and thought it was the biggest waste of my time. ABC should never again be allowed to have a debate, they obvisously do not know how to do it.

Hello Everyone

I hope we can be civil during this debate, we really must get through this mean politicking.

Hi Ac, just watched the debate with HC & OB. Wow, did they ever ask tough questions , maybe CNN needs to start asking tough questions also. just my 2 cents.
By the way I believe Hillary did an excellent job and Obama did alright but he did look uncomfortable facing Wright, Ayers and bitter issue.

It will be fun blog in 2 hours! cool!

Dish Network just added CNN HD today. I am very happy to finally get to see 360 and other CNN programs in HD. Looks awesome so far!

hey everyone, thanks for joining us… we’ll be bringing you the best of the debate tonite.. and some remarkable images from the polygamist compound.. and yes we are on for a full two hours tonite..

I’ve been so into politics this past year but I’m starting to have enough of it. It seems like the talk about actually issues is so little of what is talked about anymore.

Every story about each candidate is blown out of proportion and it’s really grating on a lot of people, I believe. I’ll be happy when it’s down to one Dem and one Rep.

It’s amazing how long Hillary can talk and still not answer the question.

Hi Erica, Anderson, and crew! looking forward to tonight’s show. Did you guys get a heater for Erica?

The debate was ridiculous. Spending ALL that time asking Obama about things that have nothing to do the election. I can see them being asked about those things, but not for half of the debate! They should have debated on CNN.

Yeah Kathy, ahead in the delegates, ahead in the polls, Obama’s in big trouble.

But neither of them talk about the issues its just what the other does wrong or doesn’t do.

Kathy in Ohio.
What debate were you watching? Obama is clearly the winner. He was about the issues not throwing dirt

Hi Anderson & Erica. Sounds like another great show!

Looks like Barack still has a whole lotta ’splainin’ to do.

If I were lving in rural PA, I would take Obama’s comments as being somewhat true

There are a lot of Canadians on this blog!

I like George Stephanopoulos so I enjoyed the debate tonight and I look forward to an interesting discussion.

yay us! 2 full hours, omg, AC overload!! lol

Though I am empathetic towards the mothers involved in the raid because the were raised in this society and don’t know anything else, I would like to hear how a mother would respond if someone where to ask, “How would you feel if your son(s) were to become one of the lost boys and you would never hear from him again!”

So far so good. Please keep the nails retracted, Hillary. So important we hear about the important issues affecting the little guy, like gas prices, health care and the overall failing economy.

What is the special occasion for two hours? Too bad I can’t participate longer, I have a study session soon. Boo. :[

So who won during the debate? Obama or Clinton? I want to know.

I did not get Hillary’s point about Obama being on the same board as Ayers…..great point by Obama who said Pres. Clinton pardon people closer to this guy

like Candy said on LK…..the answer is yes, yes, yes and HRC finally spoke some truth.

I wish Obama could run for Prime Minister of Canada…..he would have my vote

Good evening all! 2 hours of AC360?

Tonight’s debate was a joke!!! George and Charlie were totally in Hillary’s back pocket all night long!!! You should read the blogs at ABCNew.com…without any misstatements or exaggerations, the vast majority of posters were disgusted with how the debate went tonight!

Whats wrong with the webcam? u guys boycotting it tonight? do we have to look at some guys head all night?

Hilary Clinton is all about old politics. I also am concerned about all her anti-NAFTA rhetoric.

Hello Anderson.. It’ll be interesting to watch the results come in next Tuesday.

bev
it had everything to do with the election it was about obamas claim to superior judgement thats what his whole platform is

Hey Anderson,
good job on yesterday’s show interviewing Kathleen from the polygamist community.

That’s right Andrea from Canada, eh?

I’m bitter and I vote. And to pretend that there is nothing wrong economically or socially is condescending to voters, their intelligence and their feelings.

Obama is a fantastic speaker - I don’t see how people get so upset about a statement that is mostly true

Hi everyone,
I wish CNN did the debate; it mass failure, those guys spent 40 minutes talking about tabloids issue. Anderson I think you a true journalist.

That debate was horrible. They talked about issues that were not relevant to Americans.

We heard more from Obama, then Hilary, they asked him redundant questions over issues that we have already heard about and gave answers too

ABC should never ever do another debate again.

I agree with Obama, people are bitter. I lost my job 2 1/2 years ago to overseas competition. I was fortunate to get retraining. Now just as I get out of school, the economy tanks and I can’t find work in my new field in my small town. I’m not bitter, but I can certainly understand why others would be.

Hi Anderson:

Glad you are back. I have been off the blog this week due to workload. Looking forward to the debate, and I really hope they stay civil.

Hi Erica!
Hello from Portugal again.
You are beautiful as always.
Have a nice show!

Yes! I agree with you LOL! Brandi!

Kathy I could not agree more with your comment…..she has amazing skill at not answering the question that was actually asked of her

so who do people want to see take on the great John McCain? Hillary or Obama ??

Anderson:
Can we talk about the issues. Move on PLEASE!!!!

I was kind of bored by the debates. This is the 21st one right?

Strangely enough by refusing to disavow his relationship with Reverend Wright and the church which supports him, Obama is also guilty of clinging to his religion.

@lorie ann, CA. highly recommend watching debate, Hillary did exceptional well. It is clear to me that she is the stronger one.
No offense to CNN but ABC News did execellent job. I am loyal to CNN daily.

@ PAT: perhaps they feel they are being talked down to?

It seems like the issues aren’t very important in this election as they are rarely talked about.

obvisously Anderson should do some 360’s from Canada since he has so many viewers from Canada….what do you think Anderson and Erica

This is so ridiculous. We’re fighting two wars. Millions in poverty. Millions without health insurance. Crumbling infrastructure. A failing education system. New Orleans still struggling. And on and on. Yet here we are talking about poor word choices.

The way I see it no one is taking the high road. I think I would have jumped ship, if Obama didn’t allow himself to involve himself in “old politics”, but that isn’t the case. He is as defensive as ever, so they are more or less equals in my mind.

Pat, I agree with you. We seem to have shifted the focus from the issues to more of an entertainment / tabloid foray.

Why are you discussing Senator Clinton’s choice of things to talk about when SHE WAS ASKED the questions????
\

“I’m not bitter, but I can certainly understand why others would be.”

I’m certainly bitter… I’m tired of being tired and tired of being sick and unemployed and everything else.

She might not be dumb. But she did lie about sniper fire.

The ABC debate should have addressed the real issues facing Americans instead of all the manufactured theatrics.

As for the debate, it’s not really debate because I heard more cherry-picked news topic questions than the policies of the candidates. Plus Clinton should realize that her own husband has shaken hands and spoken with the same Rev. Wright that the news soundbites. So by social law of Clinton, because she’s married to Bill Clinton, who knows Rev. Wright through association, then she’s affiliated with the same reverend as Obama and we’ve just played a game of Six Degrees of Separation of Obama and Clinton.

EJ I agree, it feels like debate #2100…especially when they don’t talk about the issues

I was on their blog and it was soooo negative towards ABC and how they handled this debate.

Yea but the media is also to blame for the way they talk about her.
Go Hillary

Hi EJ!
Me too EJ! I will watch CNN next Tuesday!

“Kevin Leo”

I was looking at the comments on the ABC news blogs too. People are upset, the debate was very one sided.

Charlie was pretty much arguing with Obama the entire time.

Hillary was right to point out that Obama’s judgment must be called out by his relationship with Rev Wright.

It’s long past time to move away from the Reverand Wright story–how many times does Obama have to explain his association with the pastor? When will they ever put the focus on the other important issues that are going to affect voters?

Of course Obama is electable. He wouldn’t get this far without it. I am glad that she has said it so she can move on to proving she is a stronger candidate.

Sometimes it is best not to say the truth because it may get misinterpreted by the audience that hears it.

Oh no, the trials and travails of misstatements and blunt truths. Can we get past this? It is putting McCain in the lead and splitting the Dem party.

The Bosnia thing was just a mistake. LET IT GO PEOPLE! She has apoloziged for it several times.

Your right Anderson it’s a big disconnect. Hillary stuck her foot in her mouth.

Hillary Clinton’s Book…

Can anyone read the chapter on the Bosnian trip in Hillary’s book to make sure that Hillary was not getting up at 3am in the morning to answer phone calls and became so tired that she hallucinated about coming under sniper fire during her trip to Bosnia when she wrote this section? I wouldn’t mind if she mis-wrote. I am getting immuned to her virus.

Shell, N.Y.

have any of the candidates mentioned what they plan to do to help the crisis on Darfur??

Obama’s explanation was weak that Rev Wright’s comments were only snippets. These are two hour long videos being sold on the church’s website!!!

honestly Obama said the truth about people being bitter. yes i am and i have met people who are.bitter about the economy, immigration, and the government and guess what they tturn to what they know best. which religion, family,other activities.

Why hello Brian, I agree, not impressed at all.

Anderson, Why is it that when Clinton misspeaks it s called a lie, but when Obama misspeaks it is just a misunderstanding? In my opinion, they are both being dishonest.

When is CNN doing another debate?

Anderson or Erica,
what happened to webcast????

don’t make the campaign hinge on the Bosnia comment and the “flag comment” and little things such as these. Let’s talk character and accomplishments.

I’m not sure why we needed this debate anyway. If you haven’t made up your mind by this point…

Good evening, bloggers - hope everyone had a good day.

all these non issues are not helping all you americans. as someone outside looking in….sometimes it is laughable but then I realize it is actually really just sad. Get to the issues

ummmm…..WEBCAM!!??

Hahaha… I agree with you Megan O, I have a place for them to stay if it happens!

yeah hillary talked circles around obama when they would let her speak they focused more on him then asking the right questions but i do think she talked a little bit more policy then he did i mean he keeps bringing up her husband but i dont think hes running or did i miss that but over all even though she didnt get as much time to talk as him she won hands down he stutters to much i think he reminds me of a president i know no thank you return to sender

Interesteing debate. I don’t think either candidate got off easy. Wish they had skipped the whole ‘oops factors’ questions and just moved on to the issues.

I didn’t see a big gap between the plans or responses other than Clinton appeared to have done her homework on the statistics and facts.

I’d rather see more forums like the “Compassion Forum” the other night. Let each candidate answer questions to a host for a period of time and then have the other candidate take the same questions without the candidates addressing each other.

Keysha - They both really showed their hands by interrupting Barack throughout the night while interrupting Hillary maybe once or twice.

The Bosnia thing was a mistake made on 4 separate occasions. This is why people are wondering how truthful Clinton is on the real issues.

I am back from the dark side! Thank GOD! So glad to be watching you Anderson! That so called debate was awful! The first hour was nothing but tabloid tv! I really don’t care who wears a flag pin. Someone once told be going to church ever sunday makes you no more faithful than going into a garage makes you a mechanic.
Kind of feel the same way about the flag pin.

Shame on ABC it was the most negative and disgusting anchor…ouach

OMG!!!!!Anderson is actually crying with David about how the debate went for their precious BO!!!!! How funny!!!!!
That was THE best debate of this entire primary! They BOTH were asked tough questions and were not allowed to give flimsy answers. You guys at CNN and the people at NBC have treated BO with such kid gloves, he can’t handle REAL questions…..I knew if I tuned in tonight all you would do is YET AGAIN bash Hillary and try to make up for BO’s problems. You all can take your polls and place them you know where. Let’s see what Tuesday brings!

Tonights debate was a waste. The moderators were clearly pro Hillary and keep repeating yesterdays news, bitter and Rev Wright, but like Obama I think most Americans are smarter than that. Obama made a few points that showed again Hillarys inability to be truthful and her ability to flip flop and say whatever she thinks is necessary to win. She had no response either time because truth is truth.

Sahira,
The Bosnia thing wasn’t the only “mistake”…..and she hasn’t apologized for it either. If Obama gets whacked for saying “regret” and it’s not considered an apology, Clinton’s “misstatement” should be treated the same

Part of the problem with politics in general is that no one is every allowed to be a human being. No on is ever allowed to make a mistake or vote for something that they later realize was a mistake. Yes, trust and honesty are very important (blatant lying is not cool) but I think all the candidates need to be seen as humans with faults and baggage. Sometimes they all deserve a break. None of us are perfect, that’s for sure.

he has to keep explaining the wright issue over and over because he keeps changing his story

This was the WORST debate I have ever seen!!! The debate was completely biased. ABC news should be ashamed. They did a horrible job. They barely spoke about the issues.

Hello everyone, where is Erica anyway?

where is Erica hiding on webcam???

I’m upset that Obama has been able to hide who he truly is until now. It seems to me that he has been covering up his true beliefs and they are now coming out. I wish I could change my vote for Clinton, but our primaries are over now. I also want to know more about Obama’s relationship with Bill Ayers and Dohrn. It seems like he has a close relationship with people who don’t love our country and have it’s best interest in mind.

I’m Bitter alright - Bitter that ABC’s so called debate was a waste of time!

Obama got the backing of 2 superdels today. i wonder if this is a sign of things to come in the very near future. I am not sure if Hillary is going to recover from the image that she is projecting. They are pretty calm tonight though.

Jo Ann, I agree with you on that.

CNN HATES Hillary Clinton…..why don’t you just come out and say so…..you treat her horribly and praise everything BO does and make excuses for everything he does.

this was a horribly slow hump day to be honest Erica…..only thing to make the time past was waiting for 360 to start

It IS important to look at the fabric of Obama’s church-

Rev Wright’s 20 year relationship with Obama defines Obama’s character. The rhetoric, the tone of Rev Wright define the church and the church defines Obama’s spiritual life.

Did Hillary say she’d discount the generals advice? Obama too?

Kathy> Obama has also lied. On one occasion he said he wasn’t aware of Wright’s views, and then later said that he has known about them for the years he attended the church. The interview footage is on Youtube, although it hasn’t made headlines. Just being fair.

Anderson,
It seems as if the debates that aired on ABC tonight did not reveal anything new. When are the american people going to hear something that has real substance? Truth be told, I believe that the ameriacn people will be somewhat happy once these primaries are over. We may begin to see some real issues being discussed verses the silly season of politics that the american people are subject to hear.

The “debate” was not about the issues because the media keeps telling us that they are so close on the issues. The media keeps telling us that it is about character. The Obama campaign has said there have been enough debates. And Anderson keeps bringing up trust and likeability. So, what is it that viewers want - issues or getting to know the candidates?

ABC did a good job on giving us a chance to look at these candidates.

I’m done with these democratic debates, much rather see a debate with between the Republican and Democratic candidate discussing their stance on the issues….that is, if we ever get a Democratic candidate.

@ Andrea - I met Anderson last year at a booksigning and talked to him about coming to Canada. He said he has been to Montreal but there is a whole lot of the great white north the 360 needs to see

Honestly, I just don’t care who “mis-spoke” about what, or about the persons in their everyday lives they know (short of political influence). I want to hear about the issues that affect me and my community, which includes the Iraq occupation. I think the CNN profiling the three candidates is brilliant and a good start for me to learn about who these people really are (although none of the stories are definitive).

oops! I made mistake webcast instead webcam, LOL! duh me!

What does it feel like, CNN?????? Obama was ACTUALLY ASKED hard questions!!!!! Something CNN is not capable of doing. You all LIVE to protect your golden child. You are a joke!

Oh great?? Another story on the polygimist compound. Talking about beating a story to death. Well at least it wasn’t the lead story for a half hour today. I don’t care that you got exclusive access to the compound. Now you’re going to show us where one of them live. Do you really think I’m not going to switch the channel? Come on guys get real, this stuff is getting really boring. Sorry to be so blunt but it is the truth.

Well it was over whelping how Hillary won that debate tonight. She had answers and Obama was babbing. Wake up America Hillary is the one to be President.

Don’t tell me that Hillary is not due our trust, she is the only one of the Presidental candiates that is electableand capable of running this country.

Stop complaining about the answers that were given, both candiates were answering the questions they were ask. I like the questions because that has been what the people have been asking about.

Hillary Clinton is the smartest person in Washington DC. Hillary 08 or a mistake

“I’d rather see more forums like the “Compassion Forum” the other night. Let each candidate answer questions to a host for a period of time and then have the other candidate take the same questions without the candidates addressing each other.”

Yes that was actually very well done. It was different and also a different look into the hearts & minds on the candidates. I enjoyed that.

Anderson,
Hope you brought a heater for Erica. Or better yet, you should bring her over to your table, so she won’t feel so cold! Besides, we don’t like seeing Erica soo far away!

I could almost stomach a Hillary presidency, as long as she doesn’t raise my taxes

Thanks for fixing the web cam. We want all sides covered!

Hello Anderson,

I find this particularily curious. If the moderators were asking everyone about their dirt and baggage……I found it curious why they didn’t bring up the latest controversy about clinton’s advisor being demoted after promoting and working on the colombian trade agreement.

Seems to me the moderators were concentrating on obama’s so called mistakes (keep in mind that he is charged for what other’s have done, and for only having to know them) while they completely missed to ask teh candidates questions about where they stand on America’s trade policy. (not a single question was asked about trade policy which I think is one of the big issues. I would have been more than interested in trying to find out where Clinton stood on this despite the recent controversy with her top campaign advisor.

Are people who make $250,000/year really considered middle class? Wow. What I would give to have a salary like that. $0/year is not really getting me anywhere.

People say this is such a “Historic” moment in American politics….. seems to be same old story of politics as usual, mudslinging reigns supreme, rhetoric, and false promises taking center stage: Most voters believing in smoke and mirrors promises. What’s so historic about the same way each political campaign unfolds?It’s the same he said she said negativity. Want to win the confidence of American voters ? It’s easily accomplished. Be honest. Don’t promise the moon and stars when you know for absolute certainty you can’t deliver.

No TV, so I won’t know when you’re talking about the FLDS…
As I said on another post, please do a piece about keeping the Attorneys General honest! Where have they been hiding while the pedophiles get away with their sick activities?

Who is “following the money?”

Obama looks real presdental tonite and Hillary sound so bitter

oops..nevermind Erica just posted. On another note, I had no clue a debate was held today. Hearing the clips on CNN makes me wonder if this debate was even about the issues.

These debates are silly - both candidates can answer the questions - at the end of the neither can give a straight answer as to how they plan to reach out to all Americans.

Now, if you happen to be a guy wearing a chicken suit on a Thursday both candidates would have a plan to help that one guy.

I agree that they both just pandered on Iraq. They just gave fuel to McCain. Not a good move.

Megan O.
Erica is here on live blog, they have problem webcam……

Hi Erica, good to see you.

@Megan: it is good to hear a point of view from an objective source outside of the US. I agree that the issues are what is important. Unfortunately as the Dems discuss trivial issues McCain tackles more of the issues and because we are waiting to hear about the issues, and he is addressing them, his audience is getting wider.

Notwithstanding the issues raised and discussed tonight, it is important for the Dems to carry these issues into the months to come and leave trivial issues behind tonight.

Well said Sharon this was the first time I seen some good questions .
and no one was asking him if he needed a pillow.
Did anyone see the front page of the USA Today Paper?
GO HILLARY

I agree with SHARON that CNN doesn’t like Hillary. I also believe most of the other news stations are on a Hillary hunt. What’s funny is FOX news, which is not democratic, is the only one sticking up for Hillary. They are always asking why are all the other news stations attacking her and protecting Obama. I watch all the news stations so I can get a perspective on what everyone is thinking.

I love that 6 out of 10 Americans don’t trust Hillary. Very interesting

Janet i know alot of people who agree with you OB is just as fake as any politican and he true colors really showed tonight he had more time to talk and he still looked like a liar he coud have converted the questions back to policy i fhe wanted but didnt we dont need another WUBBA

Sharon: I agree completely. Obama flipped, flipped, “bush diverted”, stumbled, hammered. He wasn’t able to spit out his campaign rhetoric and vague/ambiguous answers as he gets away with in most debates.

Tonight’s debate was truly revealing on how well they each can think and speak on the spot. Hillary won this debate hands down.

Persons that voted for Obama back months ago are now reconsidering why they voted for him in the first place, as once you get past the campaign “goodie” talk, they are finally getting to see him for what he is - an individual with a huge ego who would sacrifice the rights of voters in Florida and Michigan in order to get what HE wants for himself.

David is always so clear and substantive

After this debate, it cannot be made more clear to me that Hillary is far more intelligent, capable and ready to be Commander in Chief. Obama stumbled and tripped over his words. She is clear concise and right on the mark.

Hillary ‘08 All the Way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I thought Hillary Clinton did a better job answering the questions tonight. I guess the analysts disagree with me.

I used to make $15/hourly. Right now I’m unemployed and on the brink of being homeless. I’m a member of the “Walk It Off” healthcare plan, so getting sick or injured would break the piggy bank for me. I started going back to school because I couldn’t get a job that pays $6.75 a hour for being “overqualified”. And I know there are people worse off than me. What I want to know is what policies do the candidates have that can help people like me?

I really will have to let CNN (oh boy) and the bloggers fill me in on the debate. I had a hockey game to watch and cry over.

I thought the role of jthe press and moderate debate was to see beyond the day to day fairly uninformed opinions of the general public and pose questions about pertient and complex issues of the day. What we have have now is a lot of stories about the process and word parsing.

This debate took the low road. What made this primary season exciting was that for a few months the candidates actually spent some real time talking vision and/or policy. Its back to the grime ..which gives one little reason to vote

As long as we change the direction I’ll be satisfied. I don’t think Obama or Clinton are going to snap their fingers and make the war go away. But as long as its not “open ended”, as Gergen put it, I’ll be a lot happier.

It seems Mr. Obama still has not made a clear statement about “bitter” comments. And recently, he has avoided making comments for a lot of things not confortable to him.

She had an insider in George Stephanolous(?) and probably knew the questions in advance.

EJ Ohio, I thought that also. I think I must be poverty level.

I loved watching Hillary attack Barack over his comment that he would love to increase the payroll tax threshhold above the current $97,000. She is sticking up for her S109 million while Barack is looking out for woking class Americans who will be dependent on Social Security in the years and decades to come!

The polygamy segment sould be interesting. Can’t wait to see it.

Neither candidate can give a definitive answer about what they will do in Iraq. They don’t know what the conflict will look like next year and they cannot just disregard what the generals on the ground will advise them to do.

..AND I don;t care about lapel pins!!!

I know David is not a Hillary fan but I guess he must really be upset about Barack’s lackluster performance tonight - he keeps criticizing Hillary. Why aren’t you Barack fans there telling us how great Barack did? Is it because he didn;t do well, maybe????

Talk about missing the question. Sen. Clintion was asked the polls show a concern about her “trust and honesty”, all she could answer was I am many things but I’m not “dumb”. Ok, so we can’t trust you or what???

CNN - we are still waiting for as in-depth a coverage you gave on Race and Politics to Gender and Politics. Why can’t you explore the issue of gender bias which is so rampant at your own organization? Where have you gone Ted Turner?

Hillary has not been wearing a pin either and nobody every asks her

I don’t wear a flag pin what’s the big deal?

So Hillary is damned if she does or damned if she doesn’t? If she had been wishy - washy like B.O. is most of the time she would have been put down by your media people for that. At least she has a good direct plan. Those reporters on your show tonith are unfair and mean to Hillary.

The debates should stick to the issues that are important to the American people. We really need to address the economy, war, healthcare, education. Who is the media really listening to? Why are they focusing on nonsense issues? Overall, I was disappointed in the ABC debate; the anchors were clearly biased. They made a very negative impression.

Patriotism, very important issue to me. What is with Hillary and the negativity?

Whether we like it or not, whoever wins in November, the United States is going to remain in Iraq for some time. There is no way we can “responsibly” leave without leaving Iraq in a state of chaos.

Any promises by candidates about leaving Iraq is their wishful thinking or pandering to voters.

The most surprising thing about the debate tonight was when they were talking about raising the cap on payroll tax. I think it should be raised, people who make the least amount of money payroll tax on EVERY dollar and those who make above $97,000 don’t. I just don’t understand that????

It’s interesting the stories and events that keep coming back in a campaign. I believe a lot of that can be attributed to blogs and a more active cyberspace… what about you?

Also, do you think all the activity online hurts voters; does it make it more difficult to get the truth about the candidates?

Erica, I can barely see your head poking up on the webcam, but I got a great view of the crew guy. lol I think he is cold too!

@Yen: I am not even necessarily a Clinton supporter, but fair is fair.

There is a difference between acknowledging wealth and pretending that you don’t have money.

Oh really?
Obama never wear label flag pin…………. oh, I saw Obama haven’t wear label flag pin……

What does wearing a flag pin has to do with solving our problems?

patriotism should not be measured by how many flags you wear on your clothes.

JoAnn, Obama said at the Compassion Forum that he does cling to his religion. He never has it was wrong, he just said that’s what you do in times of hardship. Cling to that which is familiar and dear to you.

I haven’t watched that debate yet (West Coast), but it’s interesting to see the responses.

CNN, Have you read the 5000+ comments about tonight’s debate on ABC’s blog? You should! ABC has taken a deserved beating after tonight’s BIG TOP DEBATE. Charlie should be preparing his apology for tomorrow night’s news right now. Please keep this in mind when preparing your debate material. The people have spoken and they’re voices are getting louder.

Janet: I agree about FOX news providing fair coverage of Hillary. Who would have ever thought THAT would happen? And I agree that MSNBC and CNN are riding the same propaganda wagon for Obama - just like they did with Bush. And we all know how that administration has turned out…

Anderson~
If you could answer this question for me…
Do you truly believe this has been a negative campaign? I’ve only been voting since 1980, and I truly don’t believe this has been negative compared to past campaigns. Thanks.

The amount of money someone makes (i.e. Clinton) is not an indication of how “elitist” they are–it’s a mind set.

The debate was horrible

Slighted in Hillarys’ favor.

They spent most of the time bashing Obama!

It’s a pin, who cares who wears one or not???

@ Jean M. : I’m with you. Enough of the mudslinging. Let’s hear what ANY of the candidates can do for Joe and Jane Average. How can they get us jobs? How can they not raise taxes? How can they get us out of Iraq safely? HOW???

I think this whole campaign has taken a sickening turn and I believe with all my heart it is due to the MEDIA RATINGS game. : (

Good evening Anderson, Erica, AC360 staff and bloggers.

I have to admit that I turned off the debate to watch the American Idol kickoff show. It sounds like the debate got ugly… Darn.. I should have stayed tuned in to it.

I wonder where Anderson stands on the candidates. I know if he ever revealed that his show would turn into AC180, but it would be interesting to hear his thoughts after meeting so many candidates and experts, and having a seemingly more informed standpoint than the average person.

just because your candidate didn’t perform well doesnt’ make the network “biased”

@ shane I agree with you; in PA the company that make mint candies is closing shop and moving to mexico. Myself I’m bitter; gas prices are soaring and today my boss said we have to wait for 6 months for review for raise.

Haven`t we moved past the fact that Barack Obama didn`t wear a U.S. flag pin. He is proud to be American!

I think that Hillary did a great job at the debate. As politicians go, Obama is a bunch of hot air. I wish the media would leave Hillary alone and let the people decide who needs to be the next President. The media has beat up on her since day one. Obama has been given a free ride by the media.

I can make up my own mind about what was said at the debate. You bring people on your show and they give their opinions. I watched the debate and don’t agree with most of the stuff Candy and David are saying.

Arkansas

Hey Jean and EJ I’m a member of the unemployed club too. At this point I don’t really care if Hillary or Obama wins. I’ll vote for either one. The Republican agenda is flawed. They keep pumping money out into the world, and have lost touch with the average American. It’s obvious from the housing bust and Bear Stearns that there has got to be some regulation. I say tax the greedy corporations.

Honestly I felt that obama was getting the edge by the media as well. I was for Hillary, but she is drawing negativity to herself.

I have heard Anderson state on more than one occasion that Hillary has been invited to be interviewed on 360 and she has either declined or not responded. She has to put some good positive campaigning out there or negativity will come back.

Obama is correct. A flag pin does not make someone a patriot and it has, to some extent, become a false symbol of patriotism. G.W. Bush wears his flag pin as he signs legislation cutting funds to help veterans.

Maybe there should be a debate where issues are written on pieces of paper and they get pulled out of a hat and that is all that is debated….if someone gets off point, they loose time or something. I also wish we heard about more then just Iraq, the economy and healthcare. All very important but there are many other topics that I have no idea where the candidates stand and I watch EVERYTHING that is on….so if I as someone who watches has not clue what is going on and I can’t even vote, what about the many people who only watch the clips on the news and can vote

BTW - can you tell I wish I could vote LOL

Anderson, I don’t think Obama had a choice, he was forced to wear the flag pin. It would have been political suicide to refuse it or stuff it in his pocket don’t you think?

Silly season it is-who cares if he’s wearing a flag pin or not. What Americans should be concerned about is their respect and status in the world. Their vision for their country and dealing with the real issues like lack of health care for 46 million Americans while billions of dollars is spent in Iraq.
Sue Canada

Gary, I caught that as well. She skipped right over the question.
Just as she declined and they went to commercial, when Obama stated facts about the pardons, Bill Clinton made.

Uh-oh, Anderson’s playing with his blackberry again… =)
You gotta love this webcam!

Erica, I think all the interest and discussions on the internet and in blogs is a good thing. However it means there are so many opinions available that people have to be careful not to confuse opinions and editorials with facts. I think many readers take things they read for granted without checking the facts and being critical of what they read….

Was it just me or did Hillary admit she lied about the Bosnia incident?

Where was Hilary’s Flag Pin!! I’m Bitter about that too! Could it be that Hilary isn’t a true patriot????? Heaven forbid!

I agree Jo Ann, The generals are over there trying to do their job. Their advice just can’t be disregarded.

Thank you, Mark Helprin, for that last remark. I’m tired of Obama claiming he doesn’t engage in negative attacks.

Where does Hillary wear her flag pin?

The web has become a great source for unfiltered information as well as extremely biased commentary…it all depends on how open you are as a reader to understand which is which!

Also, I wore flag label pin my life, I am support USA!

Erica~
I believe the blogs and active cyberspace do keep it alive, but that is a good thing. I don’t think the activity hurts the voter, because I’m hoping that it sparks a question in the voter like it does in me and then they research it themselves. I don’t make a decision by what you or Anderson may say or report on, and I don’t think that you want your views to make a decision on what you say or do. I hope that they research it themselves and make a wise and well thought out decision.

Love it when the show emphasizes politics over other issues. I also love it when Candy Crowley and David Gergen are part of your panel.
They are always so refined and well spoken.

Erica, I think it is very hard for the voters to get the truth about candidates when commentators let their bias about candidates come through. This blog allows all comments but Jack Cafferty will NOT post anything nice about Senator Clinton.

AAAAAHHHH! Im being moderated!! Stop it!!

Erica, I think we actually hear more with all the online activity, however, it does make it a little more difficult to separate fact from rumor.

I think the internet is doubled edged sword. You can’t verify facts as well as say, in a printed newspaper article.

The problem is that so many people don’t have the minimum idea of how to evaluate information ( and not just politics) on the internet. Just one more failure, and a dangerous one, of how and where we get our information. Of course, that doesn’t apply to this blog or hosts and participants

Anderson,
Clinton’s under sniper fire and Obama’s Bitter comment have been covered so deeply by the media, why doesn’t the media talk about the oil in Iraq and what is happening to it? or other important issues
It would also be a good idea to cover some of the private companies such as Halliburton, their profits and the war. companies like those are profiting from the war. the connection between those companies and the goverment (conflict of interest).

Off topic but Erica you look lovely tonight. You can’t tell you are probably frozen

@Mary, I could agree with you more. Hillary is by far the most knowledgeable and strongest candidate. I am truly impressed as she speaks with authority and doesn’t stump with her answers. She knows the issues inside and out and explains her plans very clearly.
GO HILLARY!

Erica,

“Also, do you think all the activity online hurts voters; does it make it more difficult to get the truth about the candidates?”

Interesting question. I think it doesn’t hurt voters anymore than what they see on TV.

I think most of us know all 3 campaigns have their workers trolling sites like these - trying to influence everyone. (especially the Clinton campaign…)

It is harder for voters to make decision with so much more information (cable, internet, etc) to sort through - but that’s both a plus & a negative. In the end I think most voters will make a well informed decision on who they feel is the best candidate.

I watched the debate, too. Hillary didnt dig into Obama until he lied about the questions being asked or only told half truths. What is the big deal about forgetting exactly what happened in Bosnea,. Obama denies anything he has been caught doing. Good grief you Americans believe anything told to you, you are ignorant and redneck just exactly as he stated. Clinging to your guns and religion, and against illegal aliens, your bitter and frustrated. This is what he said about small town americans in a closed fund raising event with his wealthy crowd. CNN quit lieing about the debate, the questions were asked by the ABC newsmen. She gave the rebuttal.

Erica Hill> No I think the internet is absolutely fantastic. Its so easy for the media to spin it, but when you post raw footage on sites such as Youtube, you can judge for yourself.