Carl Bernstein
CNN Political Analyst and author of “A Woman In Charge: The Life of Hillary Rodham Clinton”
Senator Hillary Clinton personally assured Barack Obama today that she recognizes he has won the Democratic nomination for president, and that “I’m prepared to help in any way I can,” according to a person familiar with their conversation.
Though she would prefer to be on his ticket as the vice presidential nominee, said this person, Senator Clinton has said her only requirement as the campaign goes forward is that “she be a player in the whole process. She doesn’t necessarily want to leave the Senate, but she does want to be sure that key people from her campaign will have a role in Obama’s presidential campaign and—if he wins the presidency—his administration.”
“Yes, it is somewhat a power play for vice president,” said this person, a Clinton supporter in Washington with whom she sometimes counsels on important matters. “But being on the ticket is not a requirement” for her unqualified help, especially in convincing her supporters to embrace Obama’s candidacy. “Her speech [Tuesday night] was about being a player and making sure she was a player.”
However, as late as three this morning, said a source in touch with the highest levels of her campaign, Senator Clinton still believed it remained remotely possible she might become the eventual nomineee of the party, and was determined not to concede to Obama imminently. Her thinking, said this source, remained focused on the idea that some piece of negative information about Obama might surface, or that some of the superdelegates might be somehow swayed after reconsidering that she was the more electable candidate, after some days of reflection and polling.
“It’s crazy. Her head is not there yet, to the point where she is willing to accept that she’s not going to be the nominee,” said one of her major supporters this morning, based on knowledge of conversations Tuesday night between Senator Clinton and her seniormost advisors.
Apparently one of the things that changed her mind was the obviously negative reaction of some of her most important backers—-including members of Congress–to her failure to acknowledge Obama as the nominee in her speech to supporters, after Obama had definitively secured the number of delegates necessary to be the nominee.
As the critical response, especially from supporters who had never before wavered, threatened to reach a crescendo-—and it became evident that her chances of becoming the vice presiential nominee were being adversely affected by the reaction—-she went out of her way to assure Obama personally that she recognized his victory, would give him her complete support, and try to bring along her own acolytes skeptical of his candidacy, and would do so rapidly.
Her effusive praise of Obama before the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee today was partly intended to assure him of the kind of support she intends to put forward—and demonstrate credibility with certain constitutencies she hopes will lead Obama to choose her as his running mate.
“I think she’ll be a total activist. Within a very short period of time you’ll see a very united deal,” said a member of her senior-support network. Apparently, that will occur Saturday, according to a statement from the Clinton campaign.
Meanwhile, her representatives have begun talking with senior Obama advisors about ways that he can help her pay off more than $10 million in campaign debt, through his partcipation in fund-raising efforts on her behalf between now and September, according to a knowledgeable source. September is the legal deadline for retiring certain forms of campaign debt under Federal law.
In terms of her vice-presidential aspirations, which Bill Clinton has been pushing privatey as an alternative if she failed in her bid for the presidency, Senator Clinton is said by her closest supporters to be genuinely convinced that Obama will have a very difficult time winning the presidency without her on the ticket, and that she is intent on demonsrating over the coming weeks her indispensibility to his cause.
“He (Obama) has a real problem with the Jewish vote, with white women over fifty, and a Catholic problem,” said one of Senator Clinton’s backers. “She can do a lot for him with those groups.”
It will be a very difficult sell, according to Obama’s senior advisors, many of whom have come to despise—the word is not too strong–the Clintons with the same degree of contempt that the Clintons have, in private and not-so-private, exhibited toward Obama.
However, Senator Obama is said by some of these same senior advisors not to be nearly so disdainful of Senator Clinton as some on his staff, but he has been deeply angered at the conduct of aspects of her campaign and the words of both Bill and Hillary Clinton.
| Larry |
June 4th, 2008 10:14 pm ET Yeah, Bill Richardson for VP!! |
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| M J Washington |
June 4th, 2008 10:15 pm ET I’m sick of hearing from sore losers saying I don’t know enough about Obama to vote for him, I’ll vote for McCain since Hillary was my choice. |
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| Maurya |
June 4th, 2008 10:17 pm ET I had the most respect for Hillary Clinton at the beginning of this campaign but..she has underminded all the positive aspects of it.. Who would make the best leader?? Who is more capable to make an important decision at 3AM??..I put my money on Obama.. |
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| Bill |
June 4th, 2008 10:19 pm ET Hillary would be a good option as VP for Obama, but she would have to divorce Bill first. |
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| Paul |
June 4th, 2008 10:20 pm ET Forget it, she doesn’t deserve it. She played dirty and now wants to be VP? What the hell is that her asked for money from her fans? Crazy woman! Nice gracious speech. I can’t believe she basically ignored the fact Obama took the nomination. |
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| Janet Deering |
June 4th, 2008 10:20 pm ET Hello Anderson |
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| Tim Rooks |
June 4th, 2008 10:21 pm ET I have been a big supporter since I first learned of her back with Bill Clinton’s campaign for Presidency. It was obvious back then that she was a revolutionary person/woman. I remember friends and people said she could/should be President. I think the press machine built her up and then destructed her. What a shame. |
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| girish |
June 4th, 2008 10:24 pm ET why Hillary should not be proscuted for wasting the country’s time she went on talking about herself even fully knowing that she was going to loose |
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| A Thomas |
June 4th, 2008 10:25 pm ET A significant number of older and less educated white people won’t vote for a black person. A significant number of men won’t vote for a woman. It’s well known fact that republicans won’t vote for Clinton. So what is the net gain for having Clinton on the ticket? |
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| Annie Kate |
June 4th, 2008 10:25 pm ET I hope Clinton goes back to the Senate and works on legislation to help all of us now. The American people need help now more than Obama needs Hillary campaigning for him. Annie Kate |
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| Stephen Yaffe |
June 4th, 2008 10:27 pm ET Hillary would not make a good VP choice because she is essentially a Type A person and would act a co-president and not a Vice President. Along with Bill in the picture - too many chefs in the kitchen. She would make a far better Secretary of Health and Human services, Secretary of State or another position where she would have specific power and authority. She would also be able to resign or be fired from those positions if it turns out that there is no fit, an option not available for a VP. |
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| Cyndi |
June 4th, 2008 10:28 pm ET Hi Anderson. As an Obama supporter, I am positively not interested in seeing Hillary Clinton as a VP next to Obama. She’s qualified but the chemistry is not there. She’s a sour-pus and very arrogant. Hillary and Bill will try to strong-arm Obama and do we really trust her after that Bobby Kennedy remark. She stole Obama’s thunder last night and that is totally unforgivable. What a selfish, mean-spirited woman. |
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| larry |
June 4th, 2008 10:29 pm ET hey anderson i just want to say i being one of the blue collar white men who supported hillary full heartedly during he run for the presidency and also being a democrat ( reagan democrat ) i cam home to bill clinton to al gore to john kerry will now have to go and become a mccain democrat i just cant bring myself to vote for obama and many of my friends feel the same way he does ot have the ability to be president in war time… so farewell democrat party maybe in 2012 i will be able to come home again…..hllary in 12 |
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| mike |
June 4th, 2008 10:29 pm ET I think Hillary Clinton will make a great VP and that’s the only way I will vote for Obama! |
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| clara |
June 4th, 2008 10:30 pm ET 61% say they will vote for sen. hillary if she runs on the indenpedent ticket so wwe the 18 million people hope and pray she will do this 18 million still have a chance to have are votes counted but we won’t vote oboma we wanted hillary so please sen. hillary you still have a chance please don’t throw the towel in now the country needs you |
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| lana |
June 4th, 2008 10:33 pm ET This makes me so upset. Clinton felt the nomination was owed to her, and now she is acting as if she ‘better be’ the VP nominee as well. I was a HUGE fan of the Clintons until about 2 months ago. now they just look like sore losers. She shouted from the rooftops how unqualified Obama was, how he lacked substance, and gave the GOP more than enough material to use all the way to November. Now she expects - DEMANDS - to be rewarded for that? Talk about out of touch….. |
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| Joan Perry |
June 4th, 2008 10:34 pm ET As a Canadian sitting back watching the election, I am astonished at how bias CNN is for Obama, Hillary got a raw deal from the press and from the Democratic counsel. This race has been about race, it sickens me to see how the black community at large turned its back on Hillary after all she has done for them. Just because they have a black representative running, they voted for him, not because he has the knowledge or because he has the skill or experience, but simply because he is black and they had a point to prove. Well CNN you say that you give an honest independent view, I have yet to hear or see one. Hillary I hope you run as an indepentant… I would come down to help you, remember you won the popular vote. |
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| S, Holt |
June 4th, 2008 10:34 pm ET Now I am totally confused. I have grown politically knowledgeable these last 15 months. I am a retired public school teacher with 35 years of service. Hillary needs a grand exit in Washington to acknowledge Senator Obama as the Presidental nominee, but take HER delegates to the convention for her daughter’s sake? It seems to me she wants a showdown on the convention floor. Somebody better talk to her again and throw her supporters around the nominee. Her Park Ridge supporters even said today what is she doing? If she supports him, we will. |
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| Maggie OKLA |
June 4th, 2008 10:36 pm ET Senator Obama must realize he hasn’t a chance to win in November. He has belittled and insulted too many main stream demoocats with his political rhetic. I will never, never vote for the socialist/marxist/communist/racist Obama. NEVER.–NEITHER WILL MY FRIENDS OR FAMILY MEMBERS. |
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| June |
June 4th, 2008 10:36 pm ET I’m very shocked at the overt nature of sexism in your coverage tonight. When describing why Hilary would not be a good choice it was insinuated that she would be meddling and expecting to have a voice, watching over his shoulder and nagging. When the preferrable array of candidates was displayed, it was of course entirely a male group. Oh, but IF you care about the female vote which is after 51% then here’s this one woman who is from a well known political family. Come on! Are you kidding me? |
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| KT |
June 4th, 2008 10:36 pm ET It is recognized, that Hillary not only stands by her man, but also her own ethics and morals (regardless of Bill’s), and it is admirable. |
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| Sheron-OH |
June 4th, 2008 10:37 pm ET My parents were strong believers in Eisenhouer and were the “R” word; however, I in my adult life I leaned more “D”; but if Obama in all his right is forced or takes HRC I feel that I might as well go back to the “R” for it is simply business as usual. If he is not strong enough to stand tall at the end with HRC how will the beginning be as a President–business as usual. No I find it a disgrace for HRC to act as a spoiled child and get rewarded for it. He must know that the baggage may be heavier than the vacation if she is on the ticket. Its time for change and that include a change without the Clinton and the BUSHs (mccain). Even at the end she played the EGO in suttle demand for Obama to bow down and use her voters as a wand for her self centered trip, she did not speak to her audience she waved her EGO flag. |
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| randy |
June 4th, 2008 10:37 pm ET CHANGE we can count on!!! I will be changing my party and voting for an Indpendent runner. |
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| Rosa Smith |
June 4th, 2008 10:38 pm ET Thank God alimighty Hillary finally got off stage! |
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| Richard |
June 4th, 2008 10:38 pm ET After hearing about Senator Clinton wanting to retain her 18 million votes, now just a thought, Clinton made a comment regarding the assasination of Robert Kennedy in one of her speaches, do you think she might be anticipating that a someone/group may not want to see an African American with an Arab name become president of the United States and therefore she would be inline with her retained votes to step in place if something were to happen to Senator Obama. Hasn’t there already been supicious deaths in the Clinton’s road to their political success! There is obviously something…….. maybe her spiritual guru spoke somethings to her. |
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| Toni |
June 4th, 2008 10:40 pm ET If she’s really prepared to help, she wouldn’t hold voters hostage. 18,000,000 voters is indeed a lot of votes, but there is a bit of an arrogant assumption that all 18,000,000 are soldiers in a Clinton army. While I do think there is a good number who are extremely loyal to Hillary, I do think that a good portion of them are more loyal to the party than to her, and more importantly, are loyal to themselves and their views, and will choose the candidate they feel best fits those views. Rather than attempt to suggest she has millions of voters in her back pocket, she’d be better off suggesting that she’s nudging those voters to vote Democratic…after all, what could be more in the best interest of your party than encouraging your voters to turn out for that party? |
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| Ric Coates |
June 4th, 2008 10:42 pm ET Should Hilary Clinton be the Vice President? My answer would be no…..Barack Obama as President, Hilary who thinks she should be President and Bill Clinton who thinks he still is President would make for a very crowded White House……I know the home on Pennsylvania has lots of rooms but with those 3, no house could be big enough |
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| Charlie |
June 4th, 2008 10:43 pm ET Hi Anderson, I am very upset at the fact that all the people commenting on the possibility of Hillary Clinton joining Barack Obama in a ticket are speculating. I feel as if CNN is selling the idea that if Senator Clinton is VP, we would have 3 presidents. The panelists are very smart individuals and they know that their argument is not true. The spouse of a vice-president has no say in a government administration. End of story. The media is selling the idea that Bill Clinton would “suck the oxigen” of an Obama administration. Please Anderson tell the panelists to be objective and real. |
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| Rosalind Hammer |
June 4th, 2008 10:44 pm ET i would like to see hillary as sec of Health and Human services rather than VP- she could champion her health care agenda and if something bad should happen to the president no one could invent a conspercy theroy that the Clintons were behind it- She is thought of as someone who is not above anything to be in the white house. I also do not think they could work well together |
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| sllick |
June 4th, 2008 10:45 pm ET Where is your story about Tony Rezko vs Obama. We need to see an in depth story about this connection . Cnn and “the obama network/msnbc” have buried this story. What is the truth about this connection. Will this show Obama’s weakness in judgement. |
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| Donald Bickerstaff |
June 4th, 2008 10:46 pm ET After Super Tuesday Obama won ten in a row. The press welcomed him with open arms as the conquering hero. Clinton finished out the closely fought primary by far the best, winning 10 of 13. The press did not welcome her; all they had to say to her after every victory was resign, quit and give up you can’t win; that she is the sole reason the democrats are divided, hurt and chances of winning the presidency are diminished. Democracy is a very fragile flower that requires the media to report the process; but in this case they have clearly participated; and have had a tremendous influence on voters, delegates and super-delegates. Do you care to coment? |
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| Anthony Raphael |
June 4th, 2008 10:47 pm ET Since Hillary had a picture of here in a former Soviet country, why not make her secretary of state? As for the strengths, Oboma needs a chess game this weekend with McCain as the “Queen”. What have republicans done in the past, where are we now and what is the message McCain is bringing and how does that compare to the past? New name, same game??? |
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| Bill, Fairfax Va |
June 4th, 2008 10:47 pm ET The democrats are hung up on what Hillary can bring to the Obama campaign if she is or is not the VP candidate. They should be thinking of the danger she poses to his election chances from the Republicans that will not vote for a democratic ticket with a Clinton on it. To most rationale Republicans, we are fed up with more of the Bush doctrine on sacrificing American middle class way of life and our soldiers lives for a faulty foreign policy. Rationale republicans and democrats voted once before for a major change and the balance of congress was set on its ear. We were disappointed when that effort failed to change anything for the better. Instead the old guard persuaded the new faces in Congress to adopt their old ways. So once again, if a Clinton appears on the ticket, we are going backwards and losing forward momentum and the Democrats will lose the Republican voters that are also yearning for a major change. With Hillary on the ticket, we’ll be left loyalty to the Republican party which has disenfranchised us and given our hard earned tax dollars to IRAQ and Saudi run OPEC. Give us something to vote for in the Democratic party and smart republicans will give Obama the White House. Keep the Clintons out of the race. |
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| Krobo |
June 4th, 2008 10:48 pm ET Hilary needs to quit and stop acting entitled. It is beginning to look more and more like she never really ran for her supporters but for herself and her family. The notion that she has to take her time to reconcile her angry supporters is ludicrous, because she called them to anger and maybe even hate in the first place. If she had won there would be the smirk and speech of “I told you so” that she would have given and although she might commend Obama, there most likely would be sarcasm to it. She needs to look at what she values most, history, and wonder what role it would give her for her divisive tactics if Obama wins without her help and worse off, if he loses because of her lack of support. Eventually, even before the major elections, her supporters will recover and remember their sufferings under this current GOP and realize it is not personal and vote on the issues that bother them and not color, gender or sentiments. If by tomorrow if she does not make an out right U turn, in my opinion, Obama should ignore her and rather focus on Chelsea, who I suppose is probably the only Clinton still in touch with the issues on ground. |
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| Karmeila Marcus |
June 4th, 2008 10:48 pm ET I am very proud of Senator Obama accomplishment, and i am even more proud that things Martin Luther King dream about has become a reality. As a black woman from the Caribbean,. Senator Clinton achievement touches me in ways i cant explain. I am 38 and i wish my mom was alive to see the way Senator Clinton fought against the odds. To answer your question ” What Hilary Clinton did wrong”? the mainstream media did her wrong, especially the pundits on MSNBC . Their coverage of her was unfair and negative. Senator Obama didnt have to run a dirty campaign, the media did that for him. |
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| Sophie |
June 4th, 2008 10:50 pm ET NOOO HILLARY!!!!! I think what Hillary did last night was wrong. I am a Hillary supporter, but i am not going to be used by her to get a VP spot. She wanted to stay in this race and we supported that, but now it’s time for her to get our party back together. Other Hillary supporters should be ashamed of her, aswell as other democrats. I am a Democrat first and a Hillary suppoter second. My vote is now for Obama, hope to see you in The White House come “09″. Sophie, |
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| John |
June 4th, 2008 10:50 pm ET I think the media should step back and layoff this issue for now. Your a bunch of ambivalent ambulance chaser that don’t even confirm what has been said. Before you start making statements of what Hillary is going to do or even what she wants. You haven’t heard it from her at all. |
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| William Jackson |
June 4th, 2008 10:51 pm ET Wait a minute, not so fast with HRC as V.P., if Obama wants real change, what about Colin Powell. Powell served as Secretary of State, Chairman of The Joint Chiefs and as National Security Advisor. With his background in politics, alot of people feel I know and talked with feels he would make a great V.P. and would be a great asset to Obama. Poweel is well respected in D.C politics and I the republicans wouldn’t be able to lay a glove on him, after all aren’t they the ones that always consider him a great american and asset as well. |
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| Karen Detweiler |
June 4th, 2008 10:53 pm ET Why are we still tearing down Clintons? “Obama would have to be a very big person to have Hillary on the ticket…” Why this kind of so-called analysis? Come on! We don’t have to worry about Obama feeling insecure! |
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| Diane |
June 4th, 2008 10:54 pm ET “Her effusive praise of Obama before the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee today ” … She didn’t look “effusive” to me - and I’ve watched it several times. She was nearly comatose – or maybe catatonic is a better description. No appropriate affect. She looked like she was being force-fed medicine. And can you please look critically at the claim that she has 18mm supporters that only she can deliver to Obama? Review the polls - as I recall about 60% at the time said they’d back Obama if he were the nominee. Take away another 1/2 of the remaining 40%, and you’re down to 5-6mm. I have a hard time believing that many “bargaining chips” will follow her blindly. And if they’re so inclined, then they probably have the personalities to be susceptible to others’ influences as well. |
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| renato ramirez |
June 4th, 2008 10:54 pm ET h,clinton is a very shrewd candidate. slimy and pretentious. her intention inretaining those delegate isbecause togive obama hard time and/or wish that if something happen to obama such as just in case. remember her comment about the kennedy was shot? |
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| Florence from Indiana |
June 4th, 2008 10:55 pm ET The only reason Hillary Clinton wants to keep her delegates until the convention is to get votes at the convention that would reverse Obama’ as the nominee. That is why she is supending her campaign and not releasing her delegates. This means, no matter what she says, she is not willing to give up. In the process between now and the convention, her campaign is looking for information on Obama. She is not to be trusted. She is not there yet and keeping her delegates means keeping her so called voters with her. This is not unity. |
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| Glenn |
June 4th, 2008 10:56 pm ET The bias shown towards Hillary Clinton by the media has been appalling. I have lost my respect for many of the newscasters I once depended upon for impartiality. In Obama’s speech last night, he made the statement, “I’d like to thank my brothers & sisters.” I think this was very fitting because Obama would not be the nominee without the black vote in this country. |
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| Bet |
June 4th, 2008 10:57 pm ET Goodness gracious! |
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| SOneal |
June 4th, 2008 10:58 pm ET Please, please, please, please, please, please do not select Hillary as a running mate. America deserves a fresh start. |
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| Tom Judd |
June 4th, 2008 10:58 pm ET I understand giving her the space to have her defeat sink in but not |
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| Sunshine |
June 4th, 2008 10:58 pm ET Obama shouldn’t even consider the “Billery or HilBilly” ticket. I think that CNN needs to replay the live feeds of the Bill/Monica scandal and the what “is-is means” event. The new younger generation of voters were too young during that time to really understand the damage Bill Clinton did in the Whitehouse and our belief in our leaders. Do we really want the “Change” candidate to join in partnership with those types of leaders? Change doesnt go back and repeat mistakes from the past….you turn, learn and move forward! Obama needs to remembe what our grandmothers taught us…..You are what your friends are! You can’t lay with a dog and expect to get up with out fleas! |
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| Ramzi |
June 4th, 2008 11:00 pm ET Can Big Ego Hillary Clinton decide to go Independent? |
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| Joy Marielle |
June 4th, 2008 11:01 pm ET What many of the media is failing to realize, is that it is not Obama many individuals have an issue with, it is his wife! I have been a Hillary supporter, and I have never tipped the scale. I have always voted democratic, however, I will vote for McCain, regardless of who supports Obama. His wife is a racist! Hey Anderson, why dont you listen to 1010 wlob radio in Baltimore, and then maybe you will see who came out to vote for Obama! Sadly, the individuals that came out to vote during these primaries, did not “vote for change”, they voted for a black man just because he is black!! Why dont you get a transcript of the radio program, and listen to all of the “uneducated individuals” who came out to vote!!! Caller after caller, they state the reasons why they voted for Obama, cause he is black!!! Please, I have faithfully watched CNN and thought you did a wonderful job covering Katrina, however you are unable to provide an unbias opion when it comes to this campaign! Obama might end up as President, however, I will not be responsible for him and his trashy, racist, ghetto wife!!! I know if anyone reads this they will think I am a racist as well, however, I have a black husband, and two half black children, I myself am Armenian. Anderson, why not talk about that? Hmmmm. . . . I have completely lost respect for you and cnn. Sadly, I now watch you and laugh. During Katrina, I watched you and cried. Come to Baltimore, and drive through west Baltimore, then you will see the people who “came out” to vote for obama. And as sadly as this is to say, probably 50% of them, have never voted in an election, and just voted because they want to see a black man in office, and thats it. Anderson, maybe you should be his VP. Another reason I would have to not vote for Obama. |
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| Karen |
June 4th, 2008 11:01 pm ET Don’t put her on the ticket, Barack She still wants to , and believes that she should, be President. Her Plan B is to become Vice President and “help” you govern. The last thing you need is to have Hillary and Bill in your Administration — they will try to run you. You don’t have to give her squat: the Party wants her out. |
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| Anthony |
June 4th, 2008 11:03 pm ET As much as I would enjoy seeing the “dream ticket” of Obama and Clinton, I believe it is imparitive that Obama takes charge of his campaign. Picking Clinton as his running mate may not help (or even hurt) him in the general election.Obama will make the best decision based on what will help him November, regardless of what “The Clintons” want. |
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| bob |
June 4th, 2008 11:04 pm ET A genuine player, a person of stature, would not have had to make that speech last night. HRC already had an incredible legacy and an amazing stature in the DNC. The speech she gave last night did nothing to improve this, alienated some of here own key supporters, hurt her chances at being selected as the VP nominee, and most likely personally insulted the presumptive nominee. Now that is some great judgement… good thing she had the political experience from a lifetime of public service to know that speech was a bad idea… oh wait! |
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| John J |
June 4th, 2008 11:05 pm ET “However, Senator Obama is said by some of these same senior advisors not to be nearly so disdainful of Senator Clinton as some on his staff, but he has been deeply angered at the conduct of aspects of her campaign and the words of both Bill and Hillary Clinton.” Give me a break. Just look at the comment from any of the news posted by his supporters. Those comments make me sick of his compaign. I think the news and Obama’s repeatedly declared in the earlier time that Clinton was not electable was worse than anything Clinton said. He distorted whatever she said. Regardless of Clinton’s support of Obama, I do not think he will win either the general election. I voted for Clinton for her work and experience. I think if she is not running, the one who has more experience and leadership is McCain. I am a Republican and the only dem that I ever voted for Bill Clinton. |
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| Micahel Guinn Ventura,CA |
June 4th, 2008 11:06 pm ET It’s amazing to me how this person who loves America, has so many followers who simply hate Americans. They yell that they’ve been robbed, they say the election was rigged, they say that the media was anti-Hillary from “day one”, and they think anyone who is for Obama is a republican troll. They hate Pelosi, Dean, Brazile, Kennedy, and anyone else who doesn’t promote their candidate to Sainthood. |
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| Karen in Ohio |
June 4th, 2008 11:06 pm ET Why do not Clinton turn to her husband, Hollywood rich friends or old, white women supporters for $10 mil? Why should Obama and his supporters help her out while this debt was used aginst their will needlessly?? Yet, she is such a witness of her husband’s sexual demeanors that she would believe every rumor about Obama. If she does not believe Obama can win, what on the earth makes her think she can win? She does not have a problem with women, catholic or white, she has a problem with geeneral American voters, period. Her madness and narrow-mindedness is inexplanable. It makes me wonder how could anyone has ever supported her. |
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| mm |
June 4th, 2008 11:08 pm ET its a very hard choice to be sure, but i believe in the long run her addition to the ticket and Bill in the background will come back to haunt him..in a very big way..he should choose elsewhere |
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| Sharon Krall |
June 4th, 2008 11:11 pm ET If the vote was taken today, I would vote for Obama. I am a 72 year old white woman which has nothing to do with my decision. I think he is sincere, will search for solutions on both sides of the aisle and encourage new ideas and motivate innovation. |
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| Gary Ford |
June 4th, 2008 11:12 pm ET The more I listen to these pundits, the more I move to Hillary’s side on this. I really feel that there is a valid point a strategy which allows her supporters as well as her ease into support of Obama as opposed to an abrupt end. |
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| Colie Brice |
June 4th, 2008 11:13 pm ET No deal Hillary. You lie outrageously, you break rules, you’re horrible at math, etc. Be grateful you’re still a senator and get the hell out of the way. No deal, no way. Let the Hillary supporters defect to Mc Cain. There’s plenty of great republicans looking for honest change and fundamental decency. Go away.. Oh and tough luck about your huge campaign debt. Vanity is expensive. |
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| Mike Kays |
June 4th, 2008 11:13 pm ET Some of this reporting strikes me as borderline ridiculous. “It’s crazy…” “said one of her supporters” “is said by her closest supporters to be”…is this seriously supposed to be proper journalism? What’s crazy is that anyone could disacknowledge that Clinton knows she has half the Democrats behind her and that she needs to proceed carefully and delicately. And please let’s not forget the disdain of Barack Obama which will continue to be felt by a great many people. Enough with the whispers from no names, let’s let Senator Clinton speak and do for herself. She continues to show herself to be an immensely intelligent and capable leader. |
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| shirley |
June 4th, 2008 11:14 pm ET This is a first: The loser dictating to the nominee what he needs to do to win her support. Hillary and her supporter’s have no shame, this is old politics at its worst. Hillary should be censored by the DNC. |
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| Professor Von Pie |
June 4th, 2008 11:15 pm ET Anybody who doesn’t know the Clintons and the Obamas hate each other must still think Bush was really looking for Saddam’s WMDs. |
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| Connie Jenkins |
June 4th, 2008 11:16 pm ET I want to start by saying this is my first submission to a blog. I would also like to express my disappointment with your guest Faye Wattleton, President, For the Advancement of Women. Her comments not only did not support Hillary Clinton but as a representative for the advancement of women she at the very least should be use pronouns that are not discriminatory. When speaking about the role of vice president in Democratic Party race she indicated it would be “him/he”. While I realize this is petty to point out it is not too much to ask of the leaders of this organization and others like it to get this right. This type of error/oversight indicates to me, and most likely others, that their role is just a job and not a part of their core belief. However, on the matter of race she seemed to be very articulate. Salinas, California |
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| Melchedsik |
June 4th, 2008 11:18 pm ET You guys keep saying that Hillary came on strong at the end and Obama got weaker. But let look at the truth, the states where Hillary beginned this winning trend: PA, WV, KY, SD. All these state have very high racial tension and these states are majority white anyone of the white DEM candidates could have won these votes over Obama because these whites where not going to vote for a black man. In KY where there the most blacks (Louisville) Obama got a high amount of voters (which was black voters). Think about this Iran and these other hater countries dislike the Europeans of America not the Blacks, and Obama: I truly believe could bring more peace to the US then a White candidate can do. Iran would sit down and listen to a black man and trust him more because he know he been thru hardship with the White Americans also. Who better can bring healing to the world then America and who better can be believed on healing then someone who was hurt and now forgives (Blacks). Think about this with a open mind. |
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| JEANNE SCHNEIDER |
June 4th, 2008 11:19 pm ET The nomination was stolen by the Dnc Rules Committee along with the votes she earned. Never in America has this happened. This is not about Hillary anymore. This is about saving democracy in America. I truly believe Obama will lose all 50 states because the American people, not the pundits and party leaders will pick the next President, and it won’t Jeffrey Toobin should be fired for what he said about Hillary last night. Pretend Hillary’s black , and do what you would do then. White women are not going to stand for this abuse. The blacklash will be a tsunami that will wash all of you away. |
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| Luis |
June 4th, 2008 11:20 pm ET How About We Just Wait Until Saturday To Find Out What She Is Going To Do. It Seems Like Now, You Guys Are Interested In Her, But Though Out The Campaign, You Guys Were Unfair To Her. Tell Her She Should Drop Out, She’s Ruining The Chances Of Obama Going To The White House. I Applaud Hillary For Staying To The End. Shows She Not A Quitter Like Many Others In The Democratic Party. One More Thing, Please Stop With Hypothetical Questions. I Want News, Not Speculations. You Guys Are As Bad As The Oil Trades (Bunch Of Specualtors). |
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| Vincent Anconas |
June 4th, 2008 11:21 pm ET One thing everyone keeps forgetting is that it has only been a day since this long, hard fought struggle has ended. Emotions are still flying around and I don’t think either Senator Clinton or Senator Obama will make any decisions in the immediate future…nor should they. It is obvious to me, however, that having Clinton as VP is the best possible decision Obama could make. Not just so Democrats can experience a victory against McCain in November but also so that he can have the best possible running mate. I can not think of a single other person that will give Obama’s campaign the same level of dedication, persistence, support and leadership. These two people have made history during this long campaign, there can be no doubt about that. Like Buckminster Fuller said…”Don’t fight forces…use them.” |
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| Pramis Nicolas Montero |
June 4th, 2008 11:21 pm ET Finally Mrs. Clinton has acknowleged Mr. Obama’s victory!!! Of course it was under pressure…but at LEAST she did. Anyways….I think for Mr. Obama deciding to choose her or not for Vice-President is an extremely hard decision. I believe so because his whole campaign has been focused on “change” and from parting ways with the “politics of the past”, which are represented by Clinton and John McCain . Republicans will have a party about this and will slowly make him lose his credibility as an agent of change. Therefore, I believe, Mr. Obama should not choose her as VP. But I’m open to other arguments, i admit this case needs to be carefully studied. |
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| Cathy |
June 4th, 2008 11:22 pm ET I was stunned by her speech last evening. The speech was so inappropriate and lacking in dignity. I think it said a lot about Hillary Clinton. I wondered if she would have a change of tone if party leaders didn’t take to her speech and demeanor last night. After all, she has to consider her future aspirations and the Clinton legacy. Good piece Carl. |
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| Dorothy Fade |
June 4th, 2008 11:22 pm ET You call yourselves the best political team on TV? Come on. You’re as naive as a high-school student in the fifties. If you think Hillary is going to back Obama, think again. She’s going to string him along, and all the time she is going to convince the super-delegates to change their minds. (Remember it’s up to them now, the back room guys.) Then, at the convention, she is going to spring it on everyone and yank the nomination away from him. It’s long been common knowledge that if a Clinton can’t defeat you, they will DESTROY you. |
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| TS |
June 4th, 2008 11:23 pm ET Carl Bernstein like many others come across as ‘Hillary Haters’. Obama has won the nomintion. She is going to concede - big deal if she does it in a few days. Why keep talking about her ‘ambition’ to be in power and not talk the same way about any men? Does Carl think that Obama does not crave power? Or is it that power obsession of males is actually a virtue? Obama has a good probability to lose not because he may be relatively inexperienced but because of disrepectful reporters and journalists in the so called main stream media. Anderson Cooper - you come across as more fair & balanced ! Let us reduce the Hillary hating columns in the name of political analysis, please… |
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| Scott Leins |
June 4th, 2008 11:23 pm ET If Mccaine and Obama really cared about the american cituation and about the future of our country they would run together drop the causes and be there for the people and get this country fixed. SAL |
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| Pramis Nicolas Montero |
June 4th, 2008 11:23 pm ET Finally Mrs. Clinton has acknowleged Mr. Obama’s victory!!! Of course it was under pressure…but at least she did. Anyways….I think for Mr. Obama deciding to choose her or not for Vice-President is an extremely hard decision. I believe so because his whole campaign has been focused on “change” and from parting ways with the “politics of the past”, which are represented by Clinton and John McCain . If he chooses Hillary* as VP Republicans will have a party about this and will slowly make him lose his credibility as an agent of change. Therefore, I believe, Mr. Obama should not choose her as VP. But I’m open to other arguments, i admit this case needs to be carefully studied |
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| larry |
June 4th, 2008 11:24 pm ET Its a shame…as most can see,, even on Hilarys web site..that we are not going to vote for Obama. Most will vote McCain..we supported Hilary the person,, not Hilary the Democrat. So as long as she isnt the nominee my vote will go to McCain..for the first time in 50 years i will vote Republican. Thanks for the run and i wish she would continue. |
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| Ariel Benazon |
June 4th, 2008 11:24 pm ET I am not prepared to say what Obama should do about the Hillary Clinton question. Suffice it to say that this is his first major challenge in political power brokering and back room diplomacy. If he can find an acceptable solution to this problem without alienating too many Democratic voters, then he has passed his first critical test as a potential president. |
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| Beth |
June 4th, 2008 11:24 pm ET Here’s what went wrong….the media. And you just can’t stop! Still going at it today deciding all the things wrong with a Hillary Obama ticket. Well, 18 million people almost as many who voted for Barack thought it went right. Further, Barack Obama does not inspire me. He is boring….his speeches are blah blah blah blah. And, you and the rest of the team at CNN are beginning to bore me. |
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| James |
June 4th, 2008 11:25 pm ET My honest opinion I don’t think HC as a VP will work. Her husband is a liability and BO will always have to watch his back. As far as her comments last night. I thought she disrespected every African American little boy and girl. BO has the right to make it about everyone, she did not have the right to not even acknowledge that history, not her story was made. That in itself only confirms that she will never submit. As much as I hate to admit it, racism and classism still exists in America, as well as the Clinton sense of entitlement. |
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| Marie in California |
June 4th, 2008 11:26 pm ET I supported Hillary, but I will never support an Obama/Clinton ticket. I would not vote for Obama under ANY circumstances. He is the most pathetic presidential candidate I have ever seen. Worse than Carter, McGovern, or Dukakis. Three cheers for President McCain! |
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| Beverly |
June 4th, 2008 11:26 pm ET Obama will not win without Clinton. I, for one, will not vote for him. |
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| CAM-J |
June 4th, 2008 11:26 pm ET John McCain keeps talking about his experience concerning Iraq because of his military career and how “naive” Barack Obama is on this and Foreign policy issues. We all honor an respect his and all of our military veterans service; I happen to be a 22 years retired U S Army Vet myself, and over those 22 years I had the unfortunate experience of witnessing the fact that experience doesn’t breed wisdom. John McCain seems to think that the economy isn’t so bad or pretty good or whatever the ridiculous positive view that he stated…Not only am I 22 years military vet, but I also have an Associates Degree in Computer Networking Systems, a BS and an AA Degree in Management, and a Masters Degree in Information Systems Management. Yet I’m unemployed and only receiving postive employment responses from companys that I do not even need a High School Diploma to secure. Wow!! Now you tell me who’s naive? |
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| DannyCali |
June 4th, 2008 11:27 pm ET What’s next because Obama guilty in fraud case? That’s why I said he will not win in general election, I think Democratic should know about that. Obama will not be President of United States for sure. |
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| Sarin |
June 4th, 2008 11:27 pm ET I, being a Sen. Clinton supporter, will not be voting for Sen. Obama, due to the fact that he denies the race votes, yet has run a race race. 92% of all black votes seemed too go one way, not based on politics. Not to mention he had better hope those college kids aren’t getting wasted on voting day. Also you continue to refer to Sen. Clinton as Mrs. Clinton, including the Pres. of the Ctr. for womens advancement, brilliant by the way. You as the Media should have more respect in this election finale, I hope that others refuse to vote and we end up with four more years of Bush, due to the Democrats ignorance! |
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| DHC in Pa |
June 4th, 2008 11:27 pm ET If her concession is to campaign with him but all the while telling him he can’t win without her, who needs her? She cannot keep from making this all about her and demonstrates time and time again that her own self interest is paramount to the interests of her party and her country. I have been a big Obama supporter but if he can’t stand up to her now and refuse to put her on the ticket, than I doubt he can stand up to the challenges of being President. |
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| Stan |
June 4th, 2008 11:27 pm ET After watching CNN for years, I am continually disappointed (and annoyed) with Anderson Cooper’s portrayal of Clinton and creating issues that were seemingly insignificant. In my opinion, CNN has moved from objective reporting to commentary disguised as reporting. I’ll find another news source and will check down the road to see if things have changed. |
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| Marcia |
June 4th, 2008 11:29 pm ET “Her thinking, said this source, remained focused on the idea that some piece of negative information about Obama might surface” |
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| Ed in Lousiana |
June 4th, 2008 11:30 pm ET Sounds like typical political extortion to me. But Obama knows how to play the game too. If he is smart he will privately agree to her demands and use her support, which unfortunately he will need to beat the Republican machine, and after he gets elected he can tell her to sit down and shut the hell up. Once he’s in office HE can make his own rules. Good luck to him whatever he decides. |
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| D Baker |
June 4th, 2008 11:31 pm ET The news groups have made this campaign for Obama and YOU ARE STILL HARPING ON HILLARY EVERY TIME SHE DOES not DO What you want her to. That and the fact everyone brings up the dislike of Bill Clinton- Did they vote for Obama or against Bill Clinton?- I think the later. It is too bad- in the words of my wife “Bill has screwed Hillary again”. CNN ——-Reality check- he did not receive the most cast votes. The news says she should stop and quit the campaign. Is her support real- take it from one Hillary supporter– yes. Like the women, like her views - unfortunately for her- the Obama campaign has mimicked her views to be more palatable- look at articles on this guy last year in Readers Digest and other magazines to see his changes. The Obama campaign has also promised everything to everyone- his campaign slogan should be “Follow the Obama Brick road” - ie… yellow brick road - and also do not pull that curtain back to see reality- Obama has none -except some very good handlers. There is real support for Hillary- take that to the voting booth come November. Also one hopes the 2/3 of the register voters who sit out each campaign vote- YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FORM THEM YET. |
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| Aware |
June 4th, 2008 11:31 pm ET AC, you need to tell David Gergen to cool it . His misogyny is only inflaming disillusioned Democrats. He has been anti Hillary all through the primaries, and enough is enough! He has really crawled out of the woodwork on this one! Let the adults speak! Hillary is the best and if you continue to disrespect her and her supporters, McCain will win big time! Barack Obama is an illusion, a left wing media myth created for mega bucks. I stopped watching Fox news during the far right mania, and I have stopped watching MSNBC during this far left mania. We travel a great deal and CNN International is always a treat to watch. You pundits need to realize that there are many people with grave doubts about Obama, the biracial candidate and his questionable relationships and his decades long association with a Black LiberationTheology church and racist pastors. He is not exactly good presidential material, and no VP can change that! I lived through Trudeau mania and the disillusionment that followed his election. |
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| Ed |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET When candidates run in a primary, you are going to see amplification of differences. Hillary simply underestimated Obama and ran a poor campaign in trying to exploit minor differences, which forced her (and Bill) into a more negative role to try and recover. For example, she thought she had Obama beat over the negotiation issue, when more Americans agree with Obama. The real problem for Hillary is that she has essentially peaked and can’t shake her high negatives, while Obama has grown rapidly despite making mistakes, something Hillary’s followers are reluctant to admit because they really want to believe Hillary’s experience should trump, and her campaign hype. For example, many really believe there is a “Michelle hates whitey” video out there despite being a hoax. I expect Obama to continue to grow the way the Kennedys and MLK grew. Unfortunately the demographics that Hillary appeals to have a hard time comprehending or accepting that it is a new day, time to move on from the obsession with resolving conflicts from the ’60s we’ve seen in every election since, including Bush’s failed attempt to win Vietnam by proxy in Iraq, instead of trying to build bridges. Whether Hillary can get this and move her heavily older and less educated followers to that point is critical to whether Clinton should be VP. |
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| Amber |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET I’m just amazed that the headlines are still about Hillary rather than about Barrack’s victory. How much longer do we have to see this woman on the news? And as far as your question, “What did Hillary do wrong?” how about… people didn’t like her? She’s a liar… she has no experience, despite CNN’s spokesperson discussing the advantages Barrack would have in choosing her as VP… citing all the experience she has. Experience doing what? Serving tea in the white house? Urging Bill to push NAFTA through which significantly hurt our country? Chasing Monica around from room to room? Dodging sniper fire in Bosnia? What was this woman’s experience? Could we please focus on the winner, Barrack Obama… and not continue to focus on the jilted first lady who taught all women to stand by their man no matter how many interns he cheats on them with? At least in her case, because he was the President of the United States… and this ambitious woman wasn’t about to leave that. |
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| Jerry |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET This looks like the most astute assessment of the situation I’ve read so far. I think Hillary is going slow in order to give her followers time to assimilate the fact she is not going to be President. As well as assimilate that fact herself. Once they’ve had a few days for the blogosphere and the forums to cool down, she’ll be more conciliatory. At the same time I imagine the backchannel vice-presidential campaign will be getting into high gear. Right now she and her team are dipping toes into the water all along the stream, trying to determine how best to put pressure on Obama to be the VP nominee, and trying to figure out how far she can go toward threatening to balk if she doesn’t get it, without completely throwing the election to McCain. |
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| Nate Franklin WI |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET We fail to give credit to the Oboma camp for not beating up on Hillary. Hillary is a mortal enemy of Oboma, and i think a wise man would keep her within sight. Theirfore, Hillary would make a great VP, and Bill would be an added bonus for your Cabnet. |
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| Edana Popp |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET And why should we listen to this ego-maniac who did everything he could to derail Clinton’s campaign? He should be at the top of Hillary’s good-by, don’t look back list. |
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| scott |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET Obama should thank the states of Florida and Michigan, because had the primaries held in these states been the real deal Clinton would have won both of these states, all of the momentum would have swung her way and she would have walked to the nomination. Just ask Mitt and Rudy, Florida did them in. |
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| Artie |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET I think Clinton would be the perfect choice for Secretary of State. |
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| Sue of Capital District, New York |
June 4th, 2008 11:32 pm ET Look i just don’t think there is enough blood pressure medicine to go around with her , Sen. Clinton, on the ticket…..i just can’t go another routd with the negative nonsense..it’s going to be enought with Sen. McCain. |
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| Phillip Deng |
June 4th, 2008 11:33 pm ET People are aware of what Senator Clinton’s game and it is that she needs some attention from media nationally and worldwide that is why she suspended her camp. this late. I thought she would endorse Barack Obama last night but oh well no one will ever know what’s in her mind. She is a well respected woman and leader but sometime she does things that don’t make sense to the public. Phillip Deng |
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| mary gunter |
June 4th, 2008 11:34 pm ET I think the news (cnn and others) were the downfall for Hillary. I think if Obama does not put her on the ticket, then McCain will win and I will vote Republican for the first time. Obama can give a great speech, but I would not feel safe at 3 A.M. with him in office! I also think Jamal and Jack Cafferty should take a hike! Jack Cafferty comes across as very close minded and out of touch. News should not be created, it should be reported by CNN. Also, the superdelegates should not be able to share with others, what their vote is until after all the states have voted in their primary. I do not believe the democrats will be united unless Hillary is VP. The 18 million people have spoken. |
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| Martina |
June 4th, 2008 11:34 pm ET I love how now we have this whole new segment of ‘what went wrong?’ in respect to Hillary well, let me see the press, the media, that’s what went wrong; thanks media for screwing this one up like you did with the war in Iraq. Let me do you guys the favor on anouncing who will be the winner in the 2008 election: John Mccain; oh and while I’m at it let me thank the democratic party for screwing this nomination too like they always mess up things, thanks because now I will have another four yrs of my life ruined. |
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| Julio |
June 4th, 2008 11:35 pm ET I just wish Hillary would stick to her guns & say what she really means. There is going to be another election & how are we to vote |
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| Grayce |
June 4th, 2008 11:35 pm ET Anderson, Did shakespeare write the diagogue we follow? You know, one vanquished foe and one insular victor? IT WAS A PRIMARY, AFTER ALL! Do we crown the “last man standing”? Or is it time to begin the change that is different from the world as it is known in Washington. If Barack Obama is to realize his dream, he needs to get her folks by the hand; he needs to applaud their audacity and their hope. The audacity of hope now belongs to everyone who came out for the primary. Tonight you said in a presidential election, the loser does not hang around deciding to support the president. Yes,i t is over then. But, this was a primary. There is more work to do–including selecting a VP. Do we suddenly surrender all our judgement and voice to one person because “it is his night”? Didn’t we do that four years ago? How did that turn out? Ed Rendell is wrong. Obama is all about inclusiveness. That means including Hillary’s constituents. |
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| Marian Kelly NY |
June 4th, 2008 11:36 pm ET I am a woman, retired executive, over fifty, and I can assure you that I am totally fed up with this whole mess. NOW– leave Barack alone to get on with his campaign. We suffered through all of these months of super huge ego trips by one couple and we have watched the Republican camp laugh to themselves as they went about their business. Enough is enough. Think of all the wasted pledges of money many Americans contributed because this parade was not finalized months ago. And, most important, why on earth would Barack Obama want to have anything more to do with these people??? BARACK—please do NOT share the Oval Office—-go forward and remain the strong gentleman who you are!!!You can win if you keep calm —–if you could win the Democratic nomination—you can certainly win the presidency. TAKE THE HIGHER ROAD ALWAYS.KEEP YOUR INTEGRITY AND ….DON”T FORGET TO BUY THAT PUPPY!!!!!!!!! |
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| IK |
June 4th, 2008 11:36 pm ET Did the “18 million” voters that Hillary Clinton claims to be her coliation, vote for her as Hillary or for the polices she promised to implement.? Why are these voters being labeled and classified as robots who have no mind set of their own and can be pushed to any corner or put in a pocket by Hillary Clinton as if they are some kind of personal army. These 18 million voters are intelligent people who can find a candidate between Obama or Mccain that represent those policies that they believed Hillary will deliver, without having her tell them where to go as if they are pons in a chess game for her. |
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| Cheryl Demas |
June 4th, 2008 11:36 pm ET I am a Catholic Caucasion woman who grew up in rural Texas. I also support Barak Obama wholeheartedly and have done so since the beginning of his campaign. My first sentence is full of “demographics” that one would think would be favorable to support Hillary Clinton — but alas, this has never been so. As a woman, her behavior throughout the campaign and certainly now has not been reflective in my mind of what a female leader should be about. Now she seems to think that she is “entitled” to be the vice presidential running mate. It’s very strange to me that she feels that Barak Obama is obliged to use her campaign staff in the general election and possibly in his administration if elected not to mention retire her campaign debts. Sounds like a lack of respect on her part for Barak Obama. I don’t think that being shrill and demanding exemplies a leader but reinforces typical female stereotypical traits that annoy me as the very different kind of woman that I am. I find Caroline Kennedy, for example, much more interesting. I’m also tired of the whole female and male dichotomy and have been all of my life. |
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| santosh hatwar |
June 4th, 2008 11:37 pm ET Barack Obama created history when he crossed the magic figure of 2118 on Tuesday and became the Democratic Party’s Presidential nominee. The first person from the African-American origin to do so in American History. The Democrats have shown the way forward. Unfortunately, Hillary Clinton’s refusal to concede the nomination will not help her cause in the long run. She could not digest her defeat and it has wounded her pride. If she thinks that she is going to make a big difference to Obama’s campaign by manouvring for a VP slot, then she’s got it wrong. Though statistically Obama-Clinton ticket may win over McCain in the General Election by a large margin, Obama without Clinton will also make it by an equally big margin because in the days to come Clinton will be a liability in the General Election campaign when Republican’s will target her role in the Establishment. Obama’s theme throughout the campaign “Change’ will suffer a setback if he tags the Clinton baggage in his run up to the Election day. She will be a troublemaker even after his victory and will come to the White House with an agenda diametrically opposite to Obama’s. Therefore Obama has to weigh his options before chosing Hillary Clinton as his running mate in this General Election. |
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| felice weinstein |
June 4th, 2008 11:37 pm ET re”what happened to hillary clinton’s campaign”?isn’t it obvious, the media really dumped on her most unfairly. it seemed to focus on her every misstep, misspoken word. her appearance was criticized. she was held to a much higher standard than was obama. in addition, this absurdly protracted media circus known as caucuses and primaries is/was just too long. once the first of these played out we had the “me too” jump on the so called winners bandwagon. can anyone tell me why we need so many different primaries/caucuses. with the advent of instant media coverage why not one National primary day? unfortunately for the democratic party many women of my age will now vote for mr mccain rather than mr obama. and i fear mr mccain will be our next president…be careful what you wish for. |
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| Zeke, Las Vegas, NV |
June 4th, 2008 11:37 pm ET President Lincoln faced a similar dilemma. He made a smart move, including his most ardent opponents as part of his government. However, I personally think Ms. Clinton would be far more effective as a member of Obama’s cabinet–especially when she has expressed such an interest in Health and Human services. However, Mr. Obama will have to face his conscience. Inviting Ms. Clinton to participate his program would genuinely demonstrate that he believes his politics–although he certainly is not in the position, nor should he, let Mrs. Clinton dictate the terms of engagement. |
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| STAUNCH CLINTON SUPPORTER |
June 4th, 2008 11:37 pm ET I suggest every H.R. Clinton supporter boycott CNN. Except for the Lou Dobbs show… The rest of the shows and especially Anderson Cooper’ show, have become redundant, I guess it is to much of a good thing, right Anerson. |
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| Susan, |
June 4th, 2008 11:38 pm ET I am glad to find I am not the only one dismayed today. I didn’t know if it was just me or if unbiased journalism had finally found it’s last days. I have written to CNN and tried to post two blogs. I have only once before even attempted. I am uncertain if I am more frustrated with CNN or the DNC. My son is a decendent of the Bouvier’s and therefore political conversation runs it’s course…. how sad that his cousin’s and ancestory is tied up in this year’s mess. |
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| CAM-J |
June 4th, 2008 11:38 pm ET Hillary, as the Vice-President, very well could be the answer to a certain victory, maybe even a landslide, for Barack Obama over John McCain. I do not think that he (Barack) really need her to defeat McCain, and it probably would not be a very wise choice for Barack to make, because Bill and Hillary is certainly a package deal and they, most certainly Bill, will do much to upstage Barack. Nevertheless, it may be the only way to really bring real or the greatest unity to the Democrates. |
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| Pat Moreno |
June 4th, 2008 11:38 pm ET Any President must have the best possible team around him to be successful as a leader of this great nation. If Hillary stands any chance of being part of that team, and I believe she should be, whether it be VP, Health & Human Services Secretary, or any position that utilizes her strengths, she needs to stop the “prima donna” campaign and start using her proven strategic skills to formulate a plan that results in her appointment to a key position within the new administration. If not, she risks returning to the Senate as a “burned out” crusader with a chip on her shoulder. Shame on her if that happens and what an unfortunate waste of an elected position, and of her inarguable talent. |
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| Debbie |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET For at least the last 90 minutes tonight (6/4) CNN has sounded like this: Hillary blah blah blah…. Hillary blah blah blah, Hillary blah blah blah. She should be yesterday’s news, but it seems Anderson Cooper and the rest of the reporters cannot STOP talking about her. Looks like she might be smarter than you think, ya think? As for Obama, David Gergen et al are saying he needs to “take charge” — good grief its been less than 24 hours and in that time he has appointed a 3 person committee to look for a VP, called Hillary multiple times on the phone, gave another speech in DC… What do you want in 24 hours???? Give the man a break and let him sleep for 10 hours. |
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| Vern Ancelet |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET If Obama decides to have Clinton VP, then history will repeat itself like how Bill screwed us with NAFTA and OPEC for so many years and not to mention how Obama Flip-Flops his issues and then denies some of these truths. If you like to see some of Obama’s secret’s go to Youtube and search the username “Obamasecrets” |
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| mira |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET I am a Democrat who has no faith in Obama’s ability to run this country. |
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| J Stanton |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET First of all Obama is not the first African American to be nominated - he is the first multi-racial person Second - I feel the news media and the superdelegates played a big role in Hillary Clinton’s loss. Third - Not all Republicans changed parties for Obama. Most of us wanted Hillary Clinton to win and would have voted for her in the general election. Now we have to vote McCain. Fourth - Obama is very inexperienced and I pray he doesn’t win and his wife comes across as a racist. |
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| Delorah |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET Hillary Clinton would NOT make a good running mate for Senator Obama, because Bill Clinton had destroyed her chances for that. At one time I, as well as many others, thought that Hillary was a “shoe-in” for President, but thanks to her “Loving Husband Bill” he tore her apart starting in South Carolina. Also, she has not conceded in her “Heart” that Obama has won the nomination…..regardless of what she comes forth and say NOW, it is not in the best interest of the Democratic Party to have her on the ticket. She is resentful for many reasons. It appears that she is not able to overcome her defeat. Hillary can try with all she has inside her to cover-up what she really feels, however, it shows. Just like President Carter said, “That would be the worst mistake” of this Monumental Historical Accomplishment. |
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| J. Ray Bakersfield, California |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET I am so sick of Hillary! I would never vote for McCain of course, but I hope he does not pick her for his VP. She is the wrong type of politics for him and what he is trying to do. The is holding out b/c she believes she still has a chance at the convention. She want’s it so bad she is willing to do anything to get it. She is the most selfish canadiate I have seen in a while. I hope Obama is taking notes. There are plenty of great VP out there Obama don’t make the Hillary mistake. |
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| Ann |
June 4th, 2008 11:39 pm ET Whether Hillary is VP or not, she will continue to participate in politics and be a major force. |
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| Brad |
June 4th, 2008 11:41 pm ET Half the democrats don’t like Hillary, and none of the republicans do.. so that means that three quarters of the population want someone other than a Clinton running the country. Why don’t they get it? and just go home? |
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| Mary Jane |
June 4th, 2008 11:42 pm ET Finally, this year I had hope of a woman president. Now my hope is dashed. I don’t trust Obama. Can’t bring myself to vote republican. So I’ve decided to write in Hillary Clinton in November. |
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| jsclark |
June 4th, 2008 11:42 pm ET Senator Obama does not need Hillary Clinton. In fact, I think she would be a liability….people want change. Hillary is out of touch…she doesn’t realize that people want change from politicians like herself. The Clinton’s epitomize the seedy politics that people have come to intensely dislike. Barack Obama brings hope that change just might occur in Washington. To put Hillary on the ticket looks like more I am a 65 year old white female and I have been looking forward to Barack Obama emerging since hearing his speech at the last convention. I just hope he stays true to his word and changes Washington instead of letting Washington change him. |
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| abbey todd |
June 4th, 2008 11:42 pm ET how does one takes seriuosly the Clinton claim of champion of woman by one whose husband is a serial sexual predator,and who enables that degrading conduct via factless defense of false denials.Please Senator go away–far away |
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| Victoria |
June 4th, 2008 11:43 pm ET I believe the true reason behind Hillary’s reluctance to concede is in her belief that Barak Obama may be assasinated. Hillary received votes when she left her name on the FL ballots. By not conceding, she positions herself as a second-tier option if something happens to Barak Obama. Her recent comment about Robert Kennedy was not a short-sighted slip by a novice, but the distorted “audacity of hope” of a desparate and disgraced candidate. She never had my vote and now she does not have my respect. |
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| Sophie Mach |
June 4th, 2008 11:43 pm ET I am so sick of the Clinton’s being blamed by the media and Obama’s supporters for everything negative in this campaign. Take a look in the mirror. I am embarrassed by the party that I have supported for over 40 years for the way they have treated Hillary Clinton. If the democrates want to win in November they best embrace Hillary Clinton and her supporters. Enough!!! |
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| Marty |
June 4th, 2008 11:44 pm ET “She doesn’t necessarily want to leave the Senate, but she does want to be sure that key people from her campaign will have a role in Obama’s presidential campaign and—if he wins the presidency—his administration.” You have got to be kidding. This is his campagin, NOT hers. How dare she, what gaul!!!! |
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| Mary |
June 4th, 2008 11:44 pm ET I love your show. I could not believe McCains speech, asking OBama to use his plane for the town hall meetings. It was like I have no money so let’s use your’s to finance my campaign. |
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| Annette |
June 4th, 2008 11:44 pm ET My husband and I are both registered Republicans and will be voting Democratic this fall. We are both self-employed and are looking for some serious changes in our economy. |
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| Ken In Orgeon |
June 4th, 2008 11:44 pm ET Thats okay (Maggie in OK) we don’t need your racist, bigoted votes nor any others in your fine state of OK. Believe it, Obama in a landslide in Nov. |
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| K |
June 4th, 2008 11:45 pm ET Hillary, Obama and his campaigners/supporters hate you to gut. Your supporters love you. Why would you join the haters and leave the admirers? Worse then, if Obama is to screw it all up, which I think he will because he has no clue what he is doing (he knows how to talk though since someone wrote the scripts for him to sing), it is you who will be blamed for all the faults. Hillary, if I were you, I would start a new party. |
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| judyco |
June 4th, 2008 11:46 pm ET typical of carl bernstein to write an article and never quote an actual person. He wrote a whole book about hillary and never spoke to her. You all may have noticed that carl didn’t quite do as well as his good friend bob woodward. that probably hasn’t sat well with him and he likes to take it out on hillary clinton. I guess Hillary would be a good choice for vp for obama if he wants to win the general election. He won’t win without hillary supporters. |
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| teach lady |
June 4th, 2008 11:46 pm ET If Hillary is VP, I might vote for Obama. Otherwise, I’ll have to vote for the old man McCain. |
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| Margaret |
June 4th, 2008 11:46 pm ET I have reached the sad conclusion that Obama’s supporters are more interested in purging the democratic party of people they don’t like than in actually winning the presidency. Hillary Clinton is an amazing woman who has really broke new ground, creating a discourse for a woman leader. She has intense support from her supporters, and obviously cares deaply about this country. Women are always put down, always told that any ambition they might have is purely selfish. God bless Hillary for standing up for all of us and shame on those divisive Obama supporters who weaken our party every day and don’t seem to know the meaning of the word magnaminity. |
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| Matt |
June 4th, 2008 11:46 pm ET First, I think it is important that Obama not pick Hillary as VP, but I think a coveted Cabine | |

