home

The Passionate Moment: A Test For The Media

This is the moment of the debate. Hillary Clinton responds to John Edwards' defense of Barack Obama (and you are right to wonder if John Edwards is trying to win the nomination if he is spending his time in a debate defending Barack Obama) and his attack on Hillary Clinton (he even insinuated that Hillary should drop out of the race; talk about presmptuous).

Hillary responds with passion. It was reminiscent in style to Ronald Reagan's moment in the 1980 New Hampshire debate after he had lost to George H.W. Bush in Iowa:

I think Democratic partisans will love this moment for Hillary and wonder if John Edwards is still trying to win. I think people who dislike Hillary will call it shrill. Of course that response is sexist. Will the Media reveal its sexism again? I predict they will. I think that is less important than how Democratic partisans react to it.

Update (TL): My favorite clips were where she talked about how words aren't action and how her feelings were hurt when Gibson said she isn't likeable. Also memorable and moving: When she said having the first woman president would be change.

Also check out her Fact Hub for sourcing of her criticisms of Obama because the chair of his NH campaign is a drug company lobbyist and his flip-flopping on the Patriot Act extension and vote to fund the war in Iraq. It also has the details of her record in New Hampshire.

[Update (TL): Debate transcript here.]

< New Hampshire: Post-Debate Thread | What Did New Hampshire Think? >
  • The Online Magazine with Liberal coverage of crime-related political and injustice news

  • Contribute To TalkLeft


  • Display: Sort:
    Thank you (5.00 / 1) (#1)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 10:53:40 PM EST
    To both you and Jeralyn for your wonderful hosting.  I got to see both debates which I would not have been able to do otherwise.
     

    "I've already made change" (5.00 / 3) (#5)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 10:58:05 PM EST
    If she co owns the Clinton presidency, then why do we need such big change now?  Why don't we have universal health care?  Why didn't she end DADT then? Why Doma then? Why didn't she get us off oil then?  You can claim these were impossible feats but they made much better strides towards a lot of these things in Europe at the time. Why didn't she make changes then?

    To me she is arguing against actually needing change, we just need to go back to Clinton 90s, if you are so partisan you think the Clinton era is the best we can do, i guess this will work for you.

    Also her body language is so aggravated and angry, she almost seems pissed that anyone would even suggest not going back to the 90s is the best idea.

    I don't really know what you think is so strong about this?  I think her plea for her candidacy was way better.

    I love the premise, if you don't think this moment is wonderful, you are sexist hate hillary clinton and hate women.  Seriously BTD is no one allowed to disagree with you

    You are obtuse (5.00 / 2) (#9)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:01:53 PM EST
    You can of course disagree with what Clinton said.

    What would make you a sexist is if you describe that answer as shrill, angry or hysterical.

    Of course you did that already. And yes, you were being sexist when you did.


    Parent

    She comes across as unflinching and (none / 0) (#136)
    by bronte17 on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:28:23 AM EST
    cold and immovable.  She interrupted at inopportune times twice.

    I'm a woman and a feminist and while she wasn't shrill, she was rude and demanding.  Not assertive nor masterful, but rude.

    Though she has some incredible intelligence. But, her comment about the missiles... she's too quick to put her finger on the trigger constantly to prove how Maggie Thatcher tough she is.

    I know that doesn't go over well here.

    Parent

    I am seeing nothing but positive for hillary (none / 0) (#138)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:30:45 AM EST
    so far for that moment.

    Parent
    CDS is real (none / 0) (#142)
    by andgarden on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:35:24 AM EST
    She said that making change (none / 0) (#143)
    by bronte17 on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:36:54 AM EST
    is not just "running on promises"... but actually "delivering" change.  It was her wrap up on the "35 years" and "working hard" angle.

    Now, if someone really wanted to swipe at her... that is a definite opening.  

    "Delivering" change.

    Parent

    I suppose (none / 0) (#148)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:42:22 AM EST
    But what does that have to do with how the moment is playing?

    And I disagree that she was rude at all.

    Parent

    A... there were a lot of people commenting on it (none / 0) (#178)
    by bronte17 on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:45:03 AM EST
    Perhaps rude is not the word... many people used a variety of different words to describe it, but it works out the same... she turned people off with it.

    It's part of her personality most likely though. It's something she cannot flip off and on.

    The dynamics are such in this primary race that Hillary's elasticity is constrained.  She's a super smart woman and a lot of people would love to see that barrier broken, but Hillary just cannot seem to catch fire.  

    And, the Bloomberg meeting is on Monday. Who knows what monkey wrench that will throw into the stew.


    Parent

    So are you shrilly saying she was shrill? (5.00 / 1) (#10)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:01:58 PM EST
    I believe her reference to health care for kids and National Guard members refer to her accomplishments, with others, while she has been Senator from NY.  

    Parent
    This person (5.00 / 2) (#13)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:04:15 PM EST
    is irrational discussing this race.

    What I love is they claim to be a Hilary fan.

    Parent

    Sorry, you began this by using the word shrill (none / 0) (#82)
    by DA in LA on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:43:00 PM EST
    in your opening blog.  If you meant that only certain people would call her shrill, then you should work on the meaning you are attempting to convey.  You are guilty of doing exactly what you accuse others of doing.  But it's become quite the standard here on TalkLeft.

    I did find her response "passionate," I thought it was angry.  She dished it out two minutes before, then became livid when it was turned back.  And it showed.

    Parent

    Ah (none / 0) (#125)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:07:49 AM EST
    Well, whatever.

    Parent
    Yes indeed. (none / 0) (#127)
    by DA in LA on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:10:48 AM EST
    The writing matters.

    Parent
    I call edwards (none / 0) (#15)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:04:34 PM EST
    angry when he goes into his rants about how sad the world is.

    I say the same for her.  why is it ok to cal lhim angry but sexist for her?

    Parent

    Oh (5.00 / 1) (#18)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:05:49 PM EST
    I see. So you are saying that because you stupidly call Edwards angry you are not a sexist when you stupidly call Clinton angry.

    I take your point.

    Parent

    hilarious (none / 0) (#22)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:07:37 PM EST
    well you (none / 0) (#29)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:10:23 PM EST
    didn't say that it was stupid, you said it was sexist.  i'm pointing out the myself and the same people you are calling sexist claim Edwards is angry.  

    I'm sorry i think calling people sexist or racist or biggots is a big deal so you might want to actually be accurate about it.  

    Parent

    My apologies to you (none / 0) (#37)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:13:48 PM EST
    But I think you will find MOST people did not call him angry.

    We'll see.

    Parent

    absolutely (none / 0) (#54)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:22:02 PM EST
    no need to apologize. if i ever use the word shrill call me on it.  it annoys me

    Parent
    let's avoid personal attacks (none / 0) (#97)
    by Jeralyn on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:50:05 PM EST
    on commenters, okay? "Stupidly" is not appropriate.

    Parent
    Uh oh (5.00 / 1) (#124)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:07:06 AM EST
    a rap across the knuckles.

    Yes, ma'am.

    Parent

    "Rap across the knuckles?" (none / 0) (#152)
    by sarcastic unnamed one on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:44:09 AM EST
    Nun/school marm reference?

    Not sexist at all.

    Parent

    Wrong. (none / 0) (#154)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:46:43 AM EST
    J, if you have the patience to (none / 0) (#146)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:38:59 AM EST
    review these exchanges, you may conclude BTD is the exhibiting calm under the circumstances.  I do.  Is it o.k. if he says "gnat"?

    Parent
    sigh (5.00 / 1) (#12)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:03:13 PM EST
    of course you can disagree - but you have to make a case that makes sense.  You mix up what is said - I cant tell if you dont understand or you do it on purpose. I think you dont understand and so I should cut you morfe slaxk than I have before.

    For example, Hillary didnt say she wanted to go back to the 90s.  You didnt understand her point.  See, you have to actually understand a point to argue against it.  

    Parent

    no (none / 0) (#21)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:06:59 PM EST
    what i said is that if she takes credit for the positive changes in the Clinton first presidency says that that is her record of change. i think it is fair to ask why we still need change, why didn't she make the changes then?  Either that is a fair question or she can't claim the 90's.

    Parent
    no (none / 0) (#23)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:08:11 PM EST
    you said she wanted to go back to the 90s - hello?  Your own words, dude.

    Parent
    no my interpretation (none / 0) (#35)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:12:44 PM EST
    of what she said was that she wants to go back to the 90's, and she is angry that everyone doesn't think it is a good idea

    i quoted what she says, you can disagree with my reading of it, but i did not misquote

    Parent

    Your (none / 0) (#43)
    by RalphB on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:17:29 PM EST
    interpretation was very wrong.


    Parent
    yeah (none / 0) (#50)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:20:05 PM EST
    not suprised he cant make a cogent point,

    Parent
    you made my point (none / 0) (#48)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:19:23 PM EST
    you didnt understand.  You dont pause to make sure you have understand what you have heard or read first.  

    Parent
    Why Edwards is not ryig to win (5.00 / 1) (#40)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:15:59 PM EST
    This Top recommended dkos diary -

    Edwards Beats Hillary Again.

    Last I looked, Barack Obama was the frontrunner. Is Edwards NOT trying to beat Obama? Obviouilsy he is NOT.

    The Edwards supporters (5.00 / 1) (#45)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:18:20 PM EST
    are being completely unrealistic about their candidate right now. It makes discussion at dkos pretty difficult.

    Parent
    It's not (5.00 / 2) (#55)
    by RalphB on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:22:42 PM EST
    just difficult, it's downright impossible.

    Parent
    Edwards is letting personal animus (none / 0) (#89)
    by MarkL on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:47:15 PM EST
    cloud his judgment. I don't know why he loathes Hillary, but it's clear to me that he does, and this is why he is intent on taking her down.

    Parent
    lol (none / 0) (#49)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:19:26 PM EST
    maybe they mean beat as in the abuse definition. funny quote though.

    Parent
    And Obama fans (5.00 / 1) (#56)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:22:53 PM EST
    love him for it.

    Will not vote for him, but love him doing the dirty work.

    Parent

    It's really hypocritical of them, (none / 0) (#61)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:25:14 PM EST
    isn't it?

    Parent
    Why? (none / 0) (#64)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:30:10 PM EST
    If I was the Obama campaign, could you have come uip with a better way to be defended?

    It is so idiotic a moment for Edwards that it defies belief.

    Parent

    That they love divisive politics (none / 0) (#66)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:31:22 PM EST
    so long as it doesn't come from their "above the fray" candidate.

    Parent
    I'm watching the Dems. now. (none / 0) (#68)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:32:05 PM EST
    Obama is saying he and Edwards yada yada yada.  

    Parent
    OMG. (none / 0) (#60)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:24:23 PM EST
    ditto (none / 0) (#78)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:40:52 PM EST
    he's currently third (none / 0) (#161)
    by along on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:59:02 AM EST
    in NH. You don't think trying to claw your way up to second is a valid tactic in that circumstance?

    I know he's SAYING it's a 2-way race, but he's reacting to the reality. It might not work, but the doesn't mean it doesn't make sense.

    Parent

    George Stephanopolis (none / 0) (#166)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:04:05 AM EST
    thought Edwards did a great job tonight.  

    Parent
    And? (none / 0) (#167)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:07:02 AM EST
    No one cares.

    Parent
    You big meany, you are hurting (none / 0) (#171)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:09:17 AM EST
    my feelings, but, don't worry, I can take it.

    Parent
    Sorry (none / 0) (#175)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:15:58 AM EST
    It was a rebuke of Stepanpoulos frankly.

    His take is not important imo.

    Parent

    I just figured he doesn't (none / 0) (#176)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:18:04 AM EST
    find Hillary all that likeable and was pleased to see Edwards try to hurt her chances.  

    Parent
    He shouldn't be allowed to be a commentator (none / 0) (#177)
    by DA in LA on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:19:24 AM EST
    Considering who he used to work for.  Not exactly an unbiased voice.

    Parent
    I've just spent a few minutes (3.66 / 3) (#2)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 10:56:36 PM EST
    taking fire from the Edwards partisans at Daily Kos for suggesting that his behavior tonight was more than a little strange. This is a post that reaffirms my feeling.

    And damn (5.00 / 1) (#6)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 10:59:10 PM EST
    that is a good moment from Hillary.

    Parent
    No cursing (none / 0) (#16)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:04:51 PM EST
    Sorry (none / 0) (#17)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:05:45 PM EST
    I thought we could stick to PG here. I apologize.

    Parent
    Afraid it's (none / 0) (#46)
    by RalphB on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:18:38 PM EST
    gotta be G for the young Obamaites.

    Parent
    LOL (none / 0) (#132)
    by Rojas on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:20:50 AM EST
    WTF (none / 0) (#24)
    by squeaky on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:08:14 PM EST
    I didn't know that d*mn was still considered a curse.

    Parent
    Jeralyn (none / 0) (#28)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:10:19 PM EST
    can correct me but I believe it gets filtered.

    Parent
    Damn is okay (5.00 / 2) (#87)
    by Jeralyn on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:46:08 PM EST
    it's just the four letter words and words that filters pick up thinking they might be s*x-related, like as* and as*h*le and p*rn.

    Thanks though for reminding people.

    Parent

    George Carlyn's list is passe. (5.00 / 1) (#93)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:48:50 PM EST
    4 letters in damn (5.00 / 1) (#105)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:54:05 PM EST
    Just sayin'

    Parent
    Don't think it gets bleeped on TV (none / 0) (#114)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:58:22 PM EST
    But there's no consistency to censorship, so what's filtered or not filtered isn't really based on reason.

    Parent
    That seems extreme (none / 0) (#26)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:09:05 PM EST
    It gets filtered (none / 0) (#30)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:10:47 PM EST
    Wow (5.00 / 1) (#33)
    by squeaky on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:11:52 PM EST
    Sensitive filters.

    Parent
    yeah, wow (none / 0) (#57)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:23:25 PM EST
    Rationale is that law firm (none / 0) (#62)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:25:25 PM EST
    computers have tender ears.

    Parent
    Ours must be the exception to that rule (none / 0) (#69)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:33:59 PM EST
    Ours curse like drunken sailors :)

    Parent
    Like in the Raggedy Ann books? (none / 0) (#160)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:57:58 AM EST
    I totally give up on that place. (none / 0) (#7)
    by Teresa on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:00:42 PM EST
    I had to come over here to read the grown-up live blog (only to find a few of them here).

    Parent
    Shrill = anger (1.00 / 1) (#8)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:01:29 PM EST
    When JE gets passionate they call it anger.  DMR called him angry you can disagree and say it is passion but the sexism seems over the top.

    Why is it ok to call Edwards angry but it's sexism to say the same of Hillary.  

    Seriously everything is an excuse with this womans supporters.

    She probably should have omitted the (none / 0) (#3)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 10:57:02 PM EST
    "35 years" part.  Strong statement though.  Good for her.  

    why? (none / 0) (#19)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:06:07 PM EST
    just curious.

    by the way, your sage comments were missedearlier.

    Parent

    Because the "youth" of NH, SC etc. (none / 0) (#31)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:11:38 PM EST
    might realize she is older than Obama!

    I had to listen to the Republican candidates jump all over each other first.  Now I'm onto the Dem. debate.  Wait up, you guys.

    Sounds like every Dem. candidate would invade Pakistan to capture Bin Laden.  Surprising to me.  Awe are plowing so much money into Pakistan.

    Parent

    oh (none / 0) (#38)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:14:07 PM EST
    I thought you meant something else - thanks

    Parent
    WOw (none / 0) (#4)
    by squeaky on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 10:57:24 PM EST
    What a moment. Hardly shrill.

    i cant tell (none / 0) (#14)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:04:18 PM EST
    if he is stupid or just wants attention.  You must know him better...or have tons more patience.

    I think it will worry some Democratic partisans (none / 0) (#20)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:06:11 PM EST
    She's been careful throughout this campaign to maintain her calm so that, as Markos said, people wonder "Remind me, why do we hate Hillary?"

    Some Democratic partisans will worry that this will remind people of why they hate Hillary. It will remind them of her negatives. It could make them think to themselves, do we want to go through it all again with the Clintons. Maybe we need change.  And "change" leads them to think about Obama.

    I think it was not a strong moment for her.  

    Um (5.00 / 1) (#25)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:08:55 PM EST
    So you are saying they did not know about the attacks on Hillary before?

    I think you are wrong in your assessment.

    Parent

    I know you think I'm wrong (none / 0) (#41)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:17:16 PM EST
    and maybe I am.  We'll find out.  Truthfully, I would be happy if this didn't come back to bite her.  But my gut level feeling is that it is not good for her.  

    The mere fact that you immediately wrote a post questioning whether the MSM will treat this in a sexist way means that this moment concerns you too.

    She needed a real moment.  Not a debatable moment.


    Parent

    Well (none / 0) (#59)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:24:06 PM EST
    I think she had no choice, whether it works or not.

    She had to do this.

    What would you have had her do in response to Edwards' attack?

    Parent

    Oh she had no choice but to respond. (none / 0) (#67)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:31:33 PM EST
    But the question was how.  If she had responded as she did to attacks in other debates, she could have had a real moment. In her other debates she tried hard to come back in clever funny ways. Or in poignant ways as she did in Las Vegas with the gender card question.  (That was a great moment). But I think she was tired tonight.  She looked exhausted to me.  When he hit her with it I think she responded naturally, with anger.  Anger doesn't help her.  

    It woke her up, she got better in the debate.  That's why she tried the funny tactic with the hurt feelings.  And that might have worked if she hadn't had the other reaction earlier.  I know some people (you) think it worked - so let me say it might have worked better.  

    Her real moment should have been the reality check moment.  But it won't be.

    Parent

    I think you are wrong (none / 0) (#77)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:40:47 PM EST
    mostly because she is no the forntrunner anymore.

    But more importantly, she needs to appeal to the Dem base.

    And it seems to have worked.

    Parent

    We'll see. (none / 0) (#91)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:47:27 PM EST
    If I'm wrong it will be a pleasant surprise. I think it's unfair that women are held to a different standard than men and aren't allowed to get angry.  And I think that most of her so-called negatives are unfair.

    You have to take into account, though, the difference between reacting to her comment in the moment and saying "yeah Hillary!" and then thinking about it the next day as other people see it on TV and question her anger.  Maybe it won't affect anything.  I suspect it could.

    But we'll see.

    Parent

    Anyone seeing that video (5.00 / 1) (#102)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:52:35 PM EST
    will be hardpressed to call her angry.

    Watch it again.

    Parent

    I have (none / 0) (#106)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:54:19 PM EST
    I've watched it three times now.  The end is where she gets in trouble.

    Parent
    Very Presidential (none / 0) (#108)
    by squeaky on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:54:54 PM EST
    Transcending gender.

    Parent
    You know, one reason I may be wrong (none / 0) (#116)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:59:16 PM EST
    is that I'm not from NH.  I react as a Democratic partisan from where I'm from and I also know reactions of Democratic partisans from where I'm from.  I know what our concerns are.  

    If NH doesn't have a whole lot of irrational Hillary haters that the Democratic partisans have to deal with on a day-to-day basis, like we do, maybe they won't be as concerned as I suspect.

    But even if it doesn't raise a concern (and I still think it will) it wasn't the big moment that she needed imo.  

    Parent

    I fully expect to see the (none / 0) (#96)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:50:02 PM EST
    "hurt feelings" comment front and center tomorrow.  

    Parent
    Do you think that helps her? (none / 0) (#103)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:53:47 PM EST
    I don't think it hurts her in and of itself (although I think it hurts her if played with the passionate moment).  But on its own do you think it helps her?  Is that the moment she should have hoped for.

    It was obviously rehearsed so maybe that is the moment she wanted played on TV.  I'm not sure why. (Although if they play far enough and get Obama's snotty answer it could help her I guess.)

    Parent

    I'm expecting something similar to (none / 0) (#112)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:57:33 PM EST
    playing up George Romney's "I was brainwashed" comment or Dukakis (was it Dukadis) tears.  

    Parent
    Wow! (none / 0) (#123)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:06:21 AM EST
    I must say you folsk seem tone deaf to me.

    No one, Imean, no one, think that was abad moment for Hillary.

    She was funny.

    EVERONE is writng that.

    Parent

    Of course it was funny (none / 0) (#126)
    by Maryb2004 on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:08:33 AM EST
    but will it help her?  I doubt it.

    Parent
    I thought it was good. Had she just accepted (none / 0) (#131)
    by Compound F on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:20:08 AM EST
    that she was less "likable," then she would have been less likable.  The question was indelicately phrased, even to a battle-hardened politician, and she responded appropriately and with some charm, a touch of humor.  

    Parent
    It was funny in context. But (none / 0) (#135)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:27:50 AM EST
    I'm predicting it will be used in print out of context.

    Parent
    I'm expecting something similar to (none / 0) (#113)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:58:21 PM EST
    playing up George Romney's "I was brainwashed" comment or Dukakis (was it Dukadis) tears.  

    Parent
    me too (none / 0) (#117)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:59:54 PM EST
    too girly

    Parent
    Girly! That's what I thought! (none / 0) (#185)
    by burnedoutdem on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:35:26 PM EST
    She batted her eyelashes, looked at the floor and gave a flirty grin to the WMUR guy asking the question.  It was a Scarlett O'Hara response, and only worked for her because she's a woman.

    I don't think it's sexist to criticize that tactic, but I DO think it's hopeless to take issue with it.  She's a woman fighting her way up the patriarchy!  Why is using the weapons society dumped on her a bad thing?

    The part of that answer that bothered me, was that she was clearly expecting the question and rehearsed the answer - even her smile on "I think he is likeable" got a little tighter like she'd practiced it before a mirror.  I don't think this feeds the narrative about her being likeable, but it does feed the narrative about her being calculating.  

    I interpreted Obama's response (which he tossed out while making notes on his pad) to mean he saw through her practiced answer and was waiting for her to stop compliment fishing and get back to a real issue.

    In the end, I get why people think it was a good moment for Clinton, but thought Obama came out looking like a grown up to her flirty teen response, and ultimately looked presidential.

    Parent

    To say that "all women (none / 0) (#115)
    by DA in LA on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:58:39 PM EST
    can't get angry is absurd when we are talking about ONE woman.  

    Parent
    um? (none / 0) (#95)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:49:50 PM EST
    And it seems to have worked.

    what evidence points to this working?

    Parent

    Focus groups (none / 0) (#101)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:51:41 PM EST
    Check links offered in comments.

    Parent
    i saw that after (none / 0) (#119)
    by Jgarza on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:03:19 AM EST
    for some reason my sound doesn't work grrrrrrrrr!

    Parent
    her response? (none / 0) (#181)
    by ghost2 on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 06:16:37 AM EST
    Please!

    I am not sure I understand you properly.

    The problem with 'Oh, she should just be funny and laugh it off' is that such tactics have their limits.  First, it really bothers me that a woman that is CONSTANTLY attacked should laugh it off time and again.  That's ridiculous.  At some point, she (for all woman really) has to stand up and say enough is enough.  

    Second, she is not running to sit there and look pretty.  She is running for the frigging presidency.  Of course, she defends herself and set the record straight.  Don't you love it if she stood up to republicans like that (and she does.)  

    Parent

    oh boy, Ghost (none / 0) (#188)
    by Judith on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:52:11 PM EST
    do I agree.  There is more at stake here than just this election - it is future of women as potential presidents.  Hillary has an ENORMOUS burden carrying this forward and it is so pathetic when women join the clamor to put her back into the 1950s i.e. folding her white gloved hands in her lap and being demure.

    Not this woman.  No way.

    Parent

    she continuously (none / 0) (#74)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:38:26 PM EST
    underestimates him, i don't think she realized how carefully her attacks needed to be executed.  she doesn't get it.  Obama is a really tough target to effectively hit.  She thinks he has never been criticized before, i think she has bought into her own talking points about him.

    Parent
    Huh? (5.00 / 1) (#76)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:39:53 PM EST
    What in blazes are you talking about?

    Parent
    suggestion (none / 0) (#83)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:43:18 PM EST
    before reading one of his posts go find a hammer and hit yourself on the head. The resulting double vision may move the letters around in a more cohesive pattern.  Its the only chance, really.


    Parent
    HaHa (none / 0) (#88)
    by RalphB on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:46:45 PM EST
    That was wonderful.  Thank you.


    Parent
    cult of hillary (none / 0) (#92)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:48:35 PM EST
    cheers insulting people they disagree with.  of course they love her anger in this.

    Parent
    thanks (none / 0) (#109)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:55:06 PM EST
    :-)

    Parent
    this rant you have posted (none / 0) (#90)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:47:21 PM EST
    came about from an attack she made on Obama. she executed the attack carelessly, and it came back around to bite her.

    Parent
    Actually he has a point. (none / 0) (#182)
    by ghost2 on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 06:23:12 AM EST
    I really like Hillary (I do).  But Obama is intentionally vague and nebulous and just talks in platitudes.  He just says, ... blah blah blah hope ... positive ... unity... [doesn't it remind you of a certain campaign in 2000 that worked out so well?]  Like George Bush, he is intentionally vague and is hard to target.

    That strategy works only if you have the press on your side, and they don't report your glaring mistakes, but nitpick on your opponent's.  

    Today's moment of zen is brought by Walter Shapiro of Salon.com  (http://www.salon.com/news/feature/2008/01/05/debate/)

    As in many debates, it is difficult afterwards to recall much that Obama said, but he consistently seemed in command while saying it.



    Parent
    she invited him to attack (none / 0) (#80)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:42:26 PM EST
    What would you have had her do in response to Edwards' attack?

    He has gone after her before, why bring him up on her attack on Obama, that was immensely stupid.  He made clear in Iowa with her union attack that he would respond if she included him on an attack.

    She invited that scenario, and it was clumsy.

    Parent

    what choice would (none / 0) (#84)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:44:14 PM EST
    he have but to attack her at that point.

    He is trying to prove he is still in the game, it would have looked bad if she was allowed to attack Obama on his behalf.

    Parent

    What choice did EDWARDS have? (5.00 / 1) (#121)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:04:42 AM EST
    How about AGREEING with Hillary on the mandates question as he does.

    See Ezra Klein.

    Edwards argued against himself.

    Parent

    If that's how it goes (none / 0) (#27)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:10:18 PM EST
    then Democrats will have internalized Andrew Sullivan. Very sad.

    Parent
    oh dear (none / 0) (#34)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:12:27 PM EST
    that would give me gas.

    Not this Democrat!

    Parent

    Yes, I agree (none / 0) (#47)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:18:42 PM EST
    that this reaction would be sad.  But that doesn't mean it won't happen.

    Parent
    yeah (none / 0) (#32)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:11:44 PM EST
    she should passively let people walk all over her so no one calls her angry.  Please.

     

    Parent

    Her tone... (none / 0) (#36)
    by andreww on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:13:23 PM EST
    was okay I thought - but was the comment in the beginning that should be discussed.  "Making change is not about what you believe." she said.  Yes it is - change is absolutely based on what you believe.  Beliefs are what created this country.  Belief is what freed the slaves.  Belief is why you have a wear orange banner on your site.  Because belief in what's possible is the very foundation of everything that has ever been accomplished.  And to discount beliefs, is to discount the possibility of change itself.  

    no (5.00 / 1) (#39)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:15:45 PM EST
    what freed the slaves was a guy TAKING action.

    Parent
    the action came after the belief - not before (none / 0) (#44)
    by andreww on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:18:13 PM EST
    but belief alone (none / 0) (#63)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:27:10 PM EST
    is worthless

    Parent
    I Posit (5.00 / 1) (#172)
    by Judith on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:09:32 AM EST
    you are planning to cross the Delaware River to suprise the enemy in their beds, but first you need boats.  So - do you go to the guy who has built boats before (probably has a few down at the shore you can confiscate) or to the guy who eloquently says - hey, I never built a boat before, a few rafts - great rafts mind you - but I firmly believe I could build you an armada.  In a week.  Or maybe 10 days.  

    Doesnt mean he cant...but would you risk it?

    This is probably silly but it is late and I cant sleep now.

    Parent

    really edwards (none / 0) (#42)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:17:25 PM EST
    never gets called angry.  off hand i can think of DMR. but tons of coverage maybe not on the blogs but the msm calls him angry.
    I didn't say shrill to describe her(if i did it was a mistake) i used angry, and i think that is a correct interpretation. You can say shrill has some sexist undertones, i agree, but angry is on the mark and it isn't sexist, and it is consistent with msm's description of other peoples "passionate" rhetoric.

    Clinton's best moment was (none / 0) (#51)
    by sammiemorris on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:20:24 PM EST
    when she said reality check

    your patients health care thing didn't pass, and barack, you voted for the horrible energy bill. actions speak louder than words.

    I ALSO thought OBAMA took a hit on his lobbying reforms when Gibson called him out for saying.. yeah.. but you can still have lunch as long as your standing.

    I also thought that was her best moment (none / 0) (#52)
    by Maryb2004 on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:21:13 PM EST
    unfortunately I doubt it will be played by the media much because the clip that BTD has above will interest them more.

    Parent
    I liked the "reality check" moment (none / 0) (#58)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:23:45 PM EST
    Does anyone have video?

    Parent
    she got very close to the edge when (none / 0) (#75)
    by Compound F on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:38:47 PM EST
    she implied Edwards killed Natalie because he failed to pass it in the House.  My tachometer was redlining on that, but I don't know if she meant to go there or not.

    And yes, I think Obama benefited from Edwards attack.  Beyond that, the performances were all pretty good: Obama, Clinton, Edwards, then Richardson.  Except for that one red-line moment, I thought Clinton was more appealing in this debate than I have seen her, but she is reaching out to her base a little late, and that is going to hurt her.  It already has.

    Parent

    some bad lines imo (none / 0) (#65)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:30:46 PM EST
    "false hope"
    "reality check"

    those sound so pessimistic, i know she is trying to say that BO and JE can't make the change and she can, but it sounds like she is saying it can't be done.  she sets her self up to fit into the strawman Obama argues against.  She should drop these lines, they don't work.

    Difficult to say he (none / 0) (#70)
    by Jgarza on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:34:40 PM EST
    can't do it because his line isn't that he is going to do it, its that everyone who supports him is going to do it.  he portrays himself as the leader of a movement. so when she attacks him, and she does to far to carelessly imo, she insults his supporters.

    Ezra Klien on the moment (none / 0) (#71)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:35:41 PM EST
    "In the debate over health care mandates, rather than argue for his plan, or against Obama's, Edwards went after Hillary as a force "of the status quo" fighting those trying to bring about change. It backfired. Clinton had looked a little tired accusing Obama of flip-flopping, but Edwards riled her up enough to elicit a furious recitation of the change Hillary had actually fought for: S-CHIP and National Guard benefits and on and on. It was quite impressive, and impassioned in a way Hillary rarely is. "

    Hillary strong with Dems in focus group (none / 0) (#72)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:36:56 PM EST
    Link.

    this is exactly what (none / 0) (#79)
    by andreww on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:41:44 PM EST
    Hillary and her supporters don't understand  Obama's supporters truly fell he's the leader of a moment, and it can't be focus grouped down.

    Parent
    Huh? (none / 0) (#81)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:42:50 PM EST
    Talk about a nonsequitor.

    This is about what Hillary needs to do.

    Parent

    just commenting (none / 0) (#98)
    by andreww on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:50:12 PM EST
    on how you referenced a focus group.  I can totally see Hillary looking to a focus group to figure out what to do, what to say, how to react to obama.

    Parent
    Jeezus (none / 0) (#110)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:55:39 PM EST
    Are you really like this all the time?

    What a comment.

    Parent

    what? (none / 0) (#118)
    by andreww on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:03:07 AM EST
    I only meant to point out the differences between an obama supporter and a hillary supporter.  I'm sorry, but it's telling.  You put up a link to a focus group, we talk about 20,000 people coming to speak.  It is a difference in what we look at, what we focus on, and how we view whether our candidate is doing well.

    Parent
    coming to hear obama speak, i meant to say (none / 0) (#120)
    by andreww on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:03:38 AM EST
    Go see the focus group diaries at dkos (none / 0) (#130)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:14:13 AM EST
    They are not from Hillary supporters.

    But do not let the facts get in the way of your silliness.

    I am a pundit of sorts.

    I comment on the politics.

    You are a fanboy.

    Parent

    Oh shut up (none / 0) (#129)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:13:09 AM EST
    I am not a Hillary supporter.

    I think indeed you are a prime example of an Obama supporter.


    Parent

    whoa man... (none / 0) (#134)
    by andreww on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:26:22 AM EST
    why the insults?  I am an obama fan and I'm open about it.  It doesn't mean I can't also intelligently discuss what we're talking about.  I thought you were pretty much a Hillary supporter and linked to the focus group as some sort of affirmation on her winnint the debate.  Sorry I touched a nerve or mis-understood.

    I had already said I thought is was a tie with no losers so it's not like I can't be a little objective.  

    Parent

    Yes (none / 0) (#137)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:28:40 AM EST
    Because you would make that assumption because I am not fawning over Obama.

    Typical Obama supporter.

    No, I do not believe you can discuss this intelligently frankly.

    As you say, you are a fanboy.

    Parent

    I am a fan (none / 0) (#150)
    by andreww on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:43:07 AM EST
    Obama was one of the only elected officials speaking at war protests and defending the protesters.  So yes, he has my support for this and many reasons. You can degrade my support into what you call a "fanboy" if you want.  But it's thought out and sincere.  Somehow because you seem to always be attacking obama supporters i guess I mistook you as being anti obama.  so, you think he might be okay, you just hate his supporters.  

    Parent
    the Obama (none / 0) (#158)
    by Judith on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:55:50 AM EST
    supporters on this board are ridiculous. I speak for myself when I say they were merely annoying and added nothing to any of the threads. Just noise.

    That has nothing to do with Obama supporters I have met in real life who are thoughtful and sincere - though they did not offer me enough concrete information to perusade me to join them.

    Parent

    Ad Hominem attacks (none / 0) (#187)
    by burnedoutdem on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:47:21 PM EST
    against other posters do not equal intelligent debate.  I can understand the confusion, though.  That has been the general rhetoric coming from our political debates since the 90's, so maybe we've forgotten what substantial debate looks like.

    I don't know...I thought I would vote for Hillary, but maybe Obama's right.  Maybe the status quo is to focused on bringing others down instead of building the country up...

    Parent

    You're not scoring too many points (none / 0) (#162)
    by DA in LA on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:59:02 AM EST
    in the intelligent debate column tonight, yourself.

    Parent
    You're not a Hillary supporter? (none / 0) (#186)
    by burnedoutdem on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:42:52 PM EST
    ...really?  I find that hard to believe.  No offense, but this isn't exactly neutral language so far.  I haven't seen anything in this blog where you criticize Clinton the way you do the other two (or the people who post to your blog, for that matter).  Not that I mind, I came poking around because of your strong rhetoric.  But, if you're trying to be neutral, it isn't really coming across that way...FYI.  :)

    Parent
    I've now heard the run up to this video (none / 0) (#73)
    by oculus on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:37:45 PM EST
    clip.  Hillary Clinton heard Obama and Edwards team up and practically call her a useless fossil.  She strongly addressed her qualifications in response.  Good job.

    check out (none / 0) (#86)
    by Judith on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:45:29 PM EST
    the Democratic threas Jeralyn set up earlier - you may enjoy some of the comments.

    The fossil reference is grand.  You sure have a way with words -

    Parent

    Edwards utterly lost me tonight, (none / 0) (#85)
    by MarkL on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:45:12 PM EST
    while Obama convinced me that he is more than good enough to be the Democratic nominee. Of course, I prefer Hillary.
    I found Edwards quite phony tonight. That's a subjective perception and not the reason he lost me. I don't get the feeling he believes anything he says.. especially when he tells a whopper (a couple days ago) like "It's a two man race now" with such shining sincerity. HAHA
    Where I drew the line and felt that Hillary completely dominated him was when the topic was about having personal motivation for political fights.
    I'm sorry, but that is just dead wrong. Hillary's answer was excellent (can't recall the words now), but I didn't need her answer  to be bothered.
    I was very suspicious of Edwards history "lesson" in response to that, as well. Look, Bush made the Iraq war personal---that was part of the problem!
    We need smart leaders, not leaders who take every fight and every setback as a personal affront.

    No worries (none / 0) (#94)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:49:47 PM EST
    He's not running for President anymore.

    Parent
    Shh (none / 0) (#99)
    by andgarden on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:50:34 PM EST
    Don't tell the candidate partisans!

    Parent
    Oh the Obama people (5.00 / 1) (#107)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:54:53 PM EST
    know it.

    It's the Edwards folks who seem out of it.

    Parent

    Obviously. (none / 0) (#104)
    by MarkL on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:54:05 PM EST
    He is only a spoiler now.

    Parent
    This really was a defining moment (none / 0) (#111)
    by MarkL on Sat Jan 05, 2008 at 11:56:02 PM EST
    for me, even though Edwards doesn't matter now.
    I have gone back and forth about liking him, but to see him present such an utterly wrong answer, with such faux conviction, was very revealing.

    Parent
    Quite surprising to hear him (none / 0) (#122)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:04:49 AM EST
    touting AT&T in light of FISA immunity issues.

    Parent
    I missed that. Can you tell me (none / 0) (#133)
    by MarkL on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:23:32 AM EST
    what he said?

    Parent
    Edwards opinined that, although (none / 0) (#139)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:31:22 AM EST
    he wasn't taking a dime from big corporations, there are some that are not so bad, for example:  AT&T and Costco.  

    Parent
    Ah. I heard Costco, but not ATT. (none / 0) (#153)
    by MarkL on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:45:28 AM EST
    interesting.

    Parent
    Unless his plan (none / 0) (#128)
    by DA in LA on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:12:17 AM EST
    Is to finish second, then first in SC.

    I think he has no chance, but that is a smart move.  He has no chance in a three candidate race, but has one in a two candidate race.  If Hillary finishes third again, it will be very bad for her.

    Parent

    He has no chance (none / 0) (#147)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:39:19 AM EST
    in a race against Obama.

    Parent
    Immigration (none / 0) (#140)
    by BRS on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:35:07 AM EST
    The word immigration wasn't even mentioned in the democratic debates. I can't believe that the media totally let them off the hook and all the dem. candidates want to postpone trying to do something about it until 2009! This issue is tearing up the country and many families. Most of the hispanic people are good people and hard working. They deserve better and so do all  American citizens. I know the right wing of the republican party took a radical stand on immigration in 2006 but the democrats have answered that with what they think is a free ride on the issue. The dems. turning the backs on this issue is very partisan and cowardly. The new congress putting this on the backs of state governments is absolutely appalling and shameful.  

    Sort of a poiint (none / 0) (#144)
    by Big Tent Democrat on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:38:44 AM EST
    They were left off the hook on that issue.

    but I disagree with the rest of what you write.

    Parent

    I'm wondering where the moderator (none / 0) (#155)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:49:09 AM EST
    got his info about the 30% possibility of a nuclear attack on U.S. soil.  Does he know something we don't?  

    Parent
    Neither were crime issues (none / 0) (#184)
    by Jeralyn on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:08:53 PM EST
    another disappointment, but expected.

    Parent
    Yeah, Richardson: we need (none / 0) (#141)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:35:08 AM EST
    arts in the schools!

    Dissecting these statements (none / 0) (#145)
    by Aaron on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:38:48 AM EST
    "Making changes is not about what you believe..."

    I think this is part of the problem that Hillary Clinton has politically and as a leader, she seems to have separated her most deeply held beliefs, which I think are deeply progressive, from what she thinks is practical and accomplishable.  Certainly you can make change through hard work, but when you separate that from your core beliefs, your accomplishments will reflect it.

    She talks about the National Guard and reserve members who have access to healthcare, but what she doesn't mention is the quality of that health-care, which if it's anything like the rest of America, or those who have to deal with the VA hospital system, is abysmal.  So she's made incremental changes, and helped to get people something in this atmosphere which is controlled by the Bush White House, and the obstructionists on the Republican side, even though the Democrats have a majority in Congress, but what she got them was something that they should've had already.  So instead of nothing, National Guard members are now getting what they shouldn't have been deprived of in the first place, what was their rightful due for serving this country.  Come on Hillary, can't you do better than that?

    "I'm running on 35 years of change."

    Sorry Hillary, you haven't been in government service for 35 years, unless you count your time in the White House, as the wife of the president, and as the wife of the governor of Arkansas.

    You know I don't really like the idea of the first woman president, of Hillary's age especially, riding into the White House on the coattails of her husband and his record as governor and president, as she did in the Senate.  If Hillary had actually put in 35 years of government service actually changing things and getting things done, and earning her way to the White House, I think I would find it far easier to get behind her. But to me she has not only proven nothing with her time in the Senate, but quite the opposite, she's shown herself to have become a loyal member of an established system which is broken and dysfunctional.  

    I want the first woman president to have actually earned her way into that office, and be willing to shut down the whole damned government in taking a stand against something like the invasion of a sovereign nation and sending this country into a trumped up war, when she knew it was entirely unnecessary.  If Hillary had done that, and lost her Senate seat in the process, I think that I would have a real reason to get behind her.

    "I'm running on having taken on the drug companies, and the health-insurance companies, taking on the oil companies."

    Some nice rhetorical flourish here, and yet what have you accomplished in your time in the Senate by taking on all of these companies, a few crumbs for the American people, but no real change.  What did we all gained by way of your advocacy, very little or nothing, isn't that so Hillary?

    "We don't need to be raising false hopes of our country about what can be delivered."

    This is a jab at her opponents of course, but it also speaks to Hillary's mindset.  It's as if she's setting us up for more of the same if she becomes president, and then she'll explain to us why we should be grateful because we have a president who is a Democrat holding back the Republican conservative tide temporarily.  No thanks, we already did that with her husband's administration.  False hope Hillary?  How about some hope.

    Argh (none / 0) (#149)
    by andgarden on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:42:49 AM EST
    You know I don't really like the idea of the first woman president, of Hillary's age especially, riding into the White House on the coattails of her husband and his record as governor and president, as she did in the Senate.

    This is just such an obvious attack, but it's not a well-informed one. What do you know about what Hillary did in Arkansas, or in the White House?

    Parent

    She picked up her pen when Richardson (none / 0) (#157)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:50:13 AM EST
    sd. he was the only one in the Dem. debate w/a top security clearance.  

    Parent
    In Arkansas (none / 0) (#163)
    by Rojas on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:59:27 AM EST
    She served a stint on the Board of Directors of Wall Mart.

    Parent
    Well, that's certinally (none / 0) (#170)
    by andgarden on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:09:04 AM EST
    a subject worthy of discussion. I think the Times wrote a fair article on it.

    Essentially:

    But if her circumstances made her a natural choice for the board, her often liberal beliefs did not and she struggled to change the rigid, conservative culture at Wal-Mart, achieving modest results.

     But I suspect you aren't really interested in discussing it. You just throw out "Wal Mart" to shut the discussion down.

    And what about in the White House. Are you seriously going to argue that she had no substantive involvement at a policy level? If you did, you'd be wrong.

    Parent

    On behalf of my mother, I am so sick of the (none / 0) (#164)
    by Teresa on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:59:45 AM EST
    anti-elderly comments from the Obama supporters. I have argued with people on Kos that say it is disgusting that they have to support old people on social security who are contributing nothing to society and that they will not be forced to buy health care because their house payments are $2000 a month. I never had a child but I've paid a ton property taxes to put you guys through school.

    I just hope Obama himself has more compassion for the elderly than many of his supporters do.

    Parent

    with ya on that (none / 0) (#180)
    by Judith on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:50:52 AM EST
    but in person, the Obama people I know dont talk like that.

    Parent
    Pretty gutsy of HIllary Clinton to (none / 0) (#151)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:43:13 AM EST
    acknowledge Bill Clinton raised taxes to get the budget balanced.  

    Without one Republican vote (none / 0) (#156)
    by andgarden on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:49:46 AM EST
    It was about 1/3 of the equation that lost Democrats Congress in 1994. Was the right thing, though.

    Parent
    Bin Laden (none / 0) (#159)
    by BRS on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 12:57:07 AM EST
    I really liked Hillary's answer about terrorism. Ten years ago in anwswer to all of Bin Ladens attacks on the trade center the first time, 2 American embasies in Africa, the Cole she(with her vast experience) helped Bill send missiles into Afganistan and hooray they bombed a school.

    So, I finished the debate. (none / 0) (#165)
    by DA in LA on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:03:51 AM EST
    I thought they all did well.  I did not at all like the opening angry moments from any of them.  But, I think Hillary will only lose people with her "passionate" moment.  She lost her cool, and I don't care who it is, man, woman or tiger, that is not what people are looking for in these debates.  The  flip-flopping comment set that entire exchange off and if their is one term you don't use on a Democrat if you are a Democrat is flip-flopping.

    The argument over change is ridiculous and I'm tired of it.

    This debate helped no one, just reaffirmed people's beliefs.  

    I'm still looking at voting Green this year....

    Your wife, of course, is my focus group (none / 0) (#168)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:07:35 AM EST
    re Obama.  What was her critique of tonight's debate?

    Parent
    She didn't watch (none / 0) (#174)
    by DA in LA on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:14:54 AM EST
    She is sick.  I would have liked to have known also, because he appeared a bit angry up top.

    I don't think it would have changed her mind at all.  She's not a Hillary fan at all.  Anyone who doesn't like Hillary would have been turned off at the beginning.  Though, she turned it around at the end.  

    Parent

    Too bad. Maybe chicken soup (none / 0) (#179)
    by oculus on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:45:26 AM EST
    and C-Span tomorrow.  

    Parent
    Wow you are (none / 0) (#169)
    by Jgarza on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:08:39 AM EST
    linking to a campaign website, to verify an attack on another candidate.  I'm sure that is the most unbiased source ever!

    you liked having (none / 0) (#173)
    by Jgarza on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 01:12:50 AM EST
    the first woman president would be change? you realize she is running against a black man?

    My thought when i heard was if thats all the change you think voters want, you ain't got a shot

    Young People Need Hillary! (none / 0) (#183)
    by crsrush on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 09:27:32 AM EST
    As a young person watching that debate, I thought Hillary clearly won.  Obama is inspiring, but Hillary inspires confidence.  Her answers on the questions about nuclear proliferation and Pakistan have been praised by experts as nuanced, and it was easy to see her experience shine through!  I am about to graduate and face a huge debt burden, rising costs of health-care, and a war that is taking the lives of my friends- I need someone in the White House who can actually make things happen.  I'm supporting Hillary.  

    He Is Most Likely (none / 0) (#190)
    by squeaky on Sun Jan 06, 2008 at 04:48:39 PM EST
    Not the first black man to have run for president. He is the first one who identifies himself as a black man, for sure. Most of us are "black", to some greater or lesser extent. From what he has said it is not clear that he will work to correct the rampant racism in our criminal (in)justice system.