Jansz,

You wouldn't want these socialists running Poland. Your newly elected leaders are more conservative, and will do a 10 times better job moving Poland forward than Hillary & Obama. So if they would be bad for Poland, they'll be a disaster for America.

Also, if Hillary is elected we know who her co-president will be... Bill. The "official" VP will be in a weak position. Like an ornament. Even Biden figured that one out.

Nostrovja

paavo nurmi, LA, CA

I am very disappointed at how ignorant american voters appear to be and at how little knowledge they have of the real world -it is almost as if none of them have ever travelled outside america

tony, maldon, essex

The real fact of the matter is that the Reps. are thrilled to see Gore sitting this one out, and Edwards pushed out.

They will have a field day spinning fear and uncertinity, considering the short list of service of these two.

In the end, a ticket of a woman & a black is too radical to succeed on the first go around.

Looks like 4 more years of a GOP whitehouse.

Riff, Philly,

Dennis and James,

If either Clinton or Obama are elected this country will go down the tubes. You democrats are all the same...more government (i.e socialism). This country was not built on such nonsense. People want to be given everything without working for it. Your party is a bunch of sissys that cannot stand up to aggression. Ya'll remind of the kid that gives everything he owns just to have friends. I hope you all go to hell.

Drew, Brownwood, Texas

I certanly can't agree with James from Philadelphia. I was not mislead. (And as a mere citizen I had no classifed breifings to read or fail to read.) My entire congressional delegation was not misled. Obama was not misled.
Hillary Clinton's vote to authorize the war in Iraq reflects either deeply flawed judgment or deeply flawed character.
Either way, it is powerful evidence showing that Obama would be a better President.
Hillary would be better than any Republican, but she is not the best we have available.
Vote for Obama!

Rich, Burlington, Vermont

If Hillary wins the nomination, we are in for a divisive summer/fall where all we will get is trash and gutter politics from all sides, not substantive policy discussions. The right wing is dying to make this a referendum on Bill and Hillary Clinton, not about America. The Clintons have shown themselves adept/well-versed in this sort of politics. If, despite these attacks, the Clintons win, the next 4 years will be more of the same, the left and right will be at loggerheads over every little thing and nothing would every get accomplished.

In contrast, Obama v McCain would be a lot more compelling, promising and uplifting than Clinton v McCain. It will pave the way for a new future with less divisive politics, more substantive policy discussions on what path is good America. I wouldn't mind voting for either Obama or McCain. But for this contest to happen, democrats should first realize the pitfalls for their party and for the country in nominating Clinton.

bob, ames, ia

With the brightest minds and Mensa intellegence available to any president, I have decided that the presidency is no longer all it's cracked up to be - that it would be refreshing to see a self-made man like Obama, without the baggage of corruption and scandal, enter the Oval Office indebted to damn few beyond the voters who put him there, and free to govern broadly on his theme of unity and decency. A crisis of any proportion, no matter who is the president, would be met with bright minds coming together beyond the president, who is never going to be the singular expert in every field regardless of implications to the contrary and the fear tactics used.

Rita, Oklahoma City,

As a liberal, educated woman in her mid-forties I have never felt prouder to be a democrat! The civility and leadership demonstrated by both candidates at last night's debate was admirable. The experience, intelligence and commitment to national service inspiring. The "Big Tent" of a party that puts forth both a woman and an African American as it's top nominees for the highest office in the land is the party I couldn't be prouder to belong to. Give me 8 years with Hillary as commander in chief with Barak as VP, honing his skills. And another 8 with Obama at the helm. It will take at least, the next 16 years to restore the country to it's greatness. Stable, secure, compassionate, fair and generous. It will take a Clinton and and Obama to get us there.

Meagan, Seattle,

Kate Zava of Rochester, NY, is right. Making a decision that is good based on information you believed correct at the time doesn't make the decision bad once you find out the information was wrong. That's why Hillary won't apologize for her Iraq vote, and why she shouldn't. Based on her information at the time, it was the right call.

As Obama himself said during the debate, "I won't always be right." Why is it OK for him, but not for Hillary?

Mike Frazier, Fayetteville, AR

Probably, the Democrats will win the presidential election this year in the light of the fact that the Democrats has already dominant in the Houses. Obama will have no choice but accept the nomination as candidate for vice president if he still want to run for the office of the president in 2018.



Ted, Hong Kong, China

Ted Wong, Hong Kong, China

Obama was a big dissapointment. He needs to get that energy back that he showed in his SC victory speech. I won't vote for Clinton II, so if Obama is not the candidate, I vote McCain or maybe Nader if he gets in.

Ted, San Diego, CA

Hilary is THE ONE for America! We need someone experienced like her to put our country back on the right track.
Obama is still young, he can afford to wait another 8 years.

evj, kaneohe, HI

Democrats may claim that they will not vote for Hillary if she is the nominee, but they're lying. If she wins the nomination (and I'm not saying that she will), they will vote for her. No self-respecting democrat would vote against the party out of spite, not after the last seven years. Hillary is a much better candidate for the future of the United States than any of the Republicans.

Peter, New Haven, CT

To James from PA:

If you had watched the entire debate you would have seen that at the end Obama gave a sound explanation for what he is looking for in a VP and cabinet members.... people who will challenge him. In his words he said he would definitely not be "right" on every issue and would not surround himself with "yes sir" (or "yes maam") sort of people. obama is a very humble leader. his comment about being "right on day one" is a rebuttal of the argument that hillary has presented time and time again that she is the most prepared to lead "from day one". he was pointing out that hillary has made made many bad decisions and even though she has been around the scene for a long time many of the issues which she champions are easily issues which she has faltered on... like her health care concerns. she has repeatedly said she has done the most for health care reform and look we have... let us not forget that jefferson was 33 when he wrote the declaration of independence.

Eric, Berkeley, CA

I like how presumptuous Europeans are with thier opining on American Presidential nominees from thier collective police-states.

Of course when there are elections in Europe, we Americans pay little or no attention to them.

pete, keyport, WA, USA

Obama won the debate because he was able to score a few points on Hillary (on Iraq- on imigration- on "forcing" healthcare on the American people) while doing the deft dance a man will have to do when debating a women. Hillary's shortcomings are such that if she were a man she would get hammered in a debate. But hammering a woman doesn't sit well with the disproportionately female democratic vote- it's MEAN. So he got his shots in but he came off as a nice guy. Their positions are similar on many issues so it comes down to this: If you had to hire someone to run your company and there were two main candidates with little to differentiate them- would you hire the one who is reviled by almost half of the workers?

Anthony, New Rochelle, USA/NY

To me, Hillary Clinton and John McCain are one and the same... they are both old Washington, they are both polarizing candidates and they are both despised equally by members of their own parties.

I have repeatedly heard many Democrats and independents say, "If Hillary's the Democratic nominee, I'm voting Republican."
I have repeatedly heard many Republicans say, "If John McCain's the Republican nominee, I'm not voting."

This is why Obama is strategically a better choice for the Democratic party if it becomes clear that McCain will receive his party's nomination: no matter who he runs against, all Democrats will vote for him, and independents seem to gravitate towards his mild, eloquent, and patient demeanor.

Kristen, Houston, TX

If Hillary Clinton and Barack Obam join together and depend on the results in the comimg Super Tuesday . The Winner represents the Democrats to run for president and the losser as vice president in the future . It can save more campaign expenses and with funds pours into the Campaign of American President Election.
I have to say if they have an attitude to co-operate, and I assume that the Democarts will win because the Republican won is in doubt because of the past performance of Mr.Bush and now is the downturn of Economy and with huge national debt and deficit in spending.

Jacky Siu, Hong Kong, China

If Romney isnt the next president everybody had better just pucker up for the tax man.

Tony, Covington, La

HERE IS THE PLAIN TRUTH:
A BLACK MAN OR A WHITE FEMALE

Personally, I think Hilary has more experience. Although Obama has great ideas and speech dynamics, he lacks experience. He is a tyro in the presidential world. Hilary serves to be the better choice, having been the first lady.

Frank , Carolina ,

The review is clearly written by someone who would rather have watched a sports event than a substantive debate -- and a European sports event at that.

Michael Denny, St. Louis, USA

It looks that all is ok between them, then? Yeah right! my guess is that Clinton and Obama ticket is on the cards.

Billy, Bangkok, THailand

It seems to be assumed that the Democrats will win - at least by the media. Is that what the American people think? I have to say that if I had a vote I'd vote Romney but I doubt he'll get on the ticket. I'd be very surprised if McCain won although our American cousins seem to have a liking for ex-armed services personnel.

Ian Burgess, Bristol,

Rubbish - all you media type want is a knock down-drag out-Jerry Springer style cat and dog fight, and you didn't get it. I think it's great that they socked it to everybody, regardless of their political positions.

Aaron, Columbus, OHIO

I like the Clinton/ Obama Ticket.
Now is Clinton's time.
That will set up the Democrats for 16 years of leadeship.
If he's good now, he'll be better after 8 years in the WH.

Jackie, Chicago, IL

Spot-on piece.

As for Clinton/Obama or vice-versa, it won't happen.

Each candidate truly feels, down to the marrow, that his / her destiny is to be president. Pure and simple.

On top of that, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that they really don't like each other.

No joint ticket this round.

Nonetheless, stay tuned ...

Mark, Strafford, MO

Don't kid yourselves. Obama can definitely win over McCain. Most republican can not stand him. But if the choice is Hillary, they will plug their nose and vote against her. I don't care what Ann Coulter says. She is not a very good representative of the majority of voters. Wake up Democrats. Nominate the right person for a change!!! I don't want another 4-8 years of indictments!

KT, omaha,

Obama laid the smackdown on Hillary for Iraq, and that cinched it. He did it in a gentlemanly, white-glove way which I think made it even more devastating. Blitzer was the only one who got booed for overreaching to make Hill uncomfortable.

Since O's got the mo, and this debate only helped, the race will be going to be tight and perhaps surprising this Tuesday!

David, Los Angeles,

Obama is the next president of the United States. He's elegant, intelligent, has a great track record, and I believe he will be able to bridge the gap between the aisle. He has worked successfully with republicans in the past, and I think at this point that is a necessary trait. I don't think Clinton play as nicely with others. I think the world is ready for a female president but not Clinton.

Boo Ruiz, Austin, USA/ TX

Hillary tried agressive in South Carolina and learned that it will not work against Obama. Since Hillary did not start it this time, Obama did not have to join in. Notice that Obama did not start it the first time. He only rose to meet the inappropriate attacks of Hillary. When she didn't start anything this time, Obama could resume his dignified approach. What I am saying is, it was Hillary's doings to begin with. When she eased up because of her humiliation in South Carolina, there was no one left to get the agressive stuff started.

Paul Schrum, Raleigh, North Carolina

Both appeared fake. It's like they are playing a role and not being themselves.

scott, charlotte, nc,

Re: Putting country before oneself:

All I have to say is... look into Ron Paul... Why don't all of us put OUR country before political dance-a-thons and pick the right PERSON for the job.

Karen, Seattle, Washington

Whoops, my mistake I was looking for a NEWS item and fell into this commentary.......Oh, it IS the NEWS section! Silly me again.

Clara , Jacksonville, AL

Hillary couldn't even skip out on the self promotion at the very end..give me a break.

Annie Piggot, Des Moines, Iowa

I watched the debate from start to finish and I loved OBAMA. I will vote for him in the general election. I will vote the Repub candidate if he is not the Dem nominee.

KrisKringle, Los Angeles, CA

DMO, Austin - The majority of Americans agree that the next president should be a democract as well, according to polls.. So I'm afraid you can't bring out the usual Europe cliches, the Republicans have been well and truly rumbled.

Owen, London, UK

Obama can't "attack" Hillary like he could another man because he is too much of a gentleman and has integrity that is so lacking in all of the other candidates! He can "hold his own" when given the right opportunity. The media would tear him up if he went after her like everybody seems they want him too. Sad world when you get accused for being "too nice". We love Obama !

Ruth, Bardstown, Ky, USA

The only person who can unify the Republican Party is Hillary Clinton. She is unelectable, but a lot of good Democrats are letting their partisan blinders get in the way of rational thinking. No one with her negatives can win a national race. The fact that Obama is running neck and neck with her, despite the Clintons' throwing everything but the kitchen sink at him (including race baiting), demonstrates her weakness. She also has a hard time getting men to vote for her.

Obama has less of a record for the GOP to go after, and he actually inspires people to vote for him, something Democrats haven't seen in a generation. Perhaps he just seems to good to be true for these old timers who are used to losing elections with the likes of Mondale, Dukakis, etc.

Caroline's endorsement is a huge get. He's the first truly inspiring Democratic candidate since JFK and if old-school, machine Democrats fail to take advantage of this moment, the party will be in serious trouble in the future.

B, Oklahoma City, USA

Who's weak on defense, Liz? We were attacked on 9-11 despite clear warnings and have lost 4,000 soldiers in an unnecessary war. Here's an analogy: A guy walks into a bar, gets sucker-punched, then starts a fight with the bouncer and gets thrown out on his ear. That's Bush's "strong on defense" in a nutshell.

Ed, New Haven, CT

Obama didn't need to shift anything. The polls are trending in his favor. He just needed to not screw that up and not let Clinton dominate him. He succeeded in both of these regards. Clinton certainly didn't fail to stem some of the flow -- it will still be a close race, but she didn't do enough.

Adam, Whittier, CA,

This was all scripted - just like a TV show or movie - two actors on a stage auditioning for professional actors - none of them in touch with reality. Too scary to watch!

Rita, Chicago,

If Barack Obama makes the mistake of choosing "Bubba II for "THE DREAM TEAM" I'll take my independent vote elsewhere....... I did not like her in the 90s and I do not like her now. She could not control her husband then and she can't control him now. If she can't take care of her own house, how is she going to take care The White House?

Latina, New Jersey, USA

Typical Democrat love fest. Means nothing!

Don of Fort Wayne is right the euro pick will probably loose.

Regretfully Toomy you folks don't understand us very well.

Scott, Pittsburgh, PA USA

I thought the debate was won by Hilary. i like the fact that she did not back down and apoligize for her vote on Irag. She like most of us were misled. Basing a vote on information that you believed was true and only after the vote found out to be untrue is not classified as a mistake. Colin Powell was lied to about Iraq as well as every American. Hilary was not wrong based on the reasons she was given. The president did not follow through on his promises in regard to inspections and I truly believe he lied from the onset. Hilary's desire to give Americans universal health care, and to have a sound economic policy are what is really important to Americans. I believe she will help make jobs again for all those who have lost jobs. She truely is a fighter and I like that in leaders. Mr. Obama thinks that he can change Washington but it takes more than poetic words to make changes it take actions. Like it or not you have to do it through the system we have in place .

kate zava, Rochester, ny/usa

Clinton/Obama, Obama/Clinton, either way it's the best ticket to hope for. These are the champions of the Democratic party, and they should realize it as such. A marriage of convenience for both their sakes, to be sure, but they are the best recognized to take the jobs (poor Edwards and Mike Gravel).

Mike, Livingston, LA

Hillary Clinton has shown bad judgment and Barrack Obama has shown good judgment. Especially on the war and on health care reform. If Hillary is the nominee, then McCain gets my vote.

Patrick, Boston, MA

The inevitable will happen - Obama-Clinton or Clinton-Obama. 16 years total for both of them in the White House as it will take 16 years to clean up the crud sitting there now. Hillary, there are many women out there to help clean up the last 8 years of crap sitting in the White house, beginning with the Oval Office. Get your "Top Job, Lysol, and Spic and Span" out along with the mop buckets and mops. Revival is coming to Washington!!!

Dennis, San Antonio, TX

Barack is certainly inspirational, but I do worry about if he can really run our country. Hi comment about being "right" on day one just furthers my concern that he does not like to be questioned and his self-imposed attitude that he thinks he is "the decided". He seemed to suggest that he has never made a poor decision.

Let's face it, our nation was misled on the war in Iraq - including Hillary. When I think about all the challanges this country faces, I continually submise that Hillary Clinton is the best candidate for the job. I would love to see Barack be her VP.

The Republicans will eat Barack Obama alive if he is the presidential nominee. Do my fellow Democrates really want to nominate someone who will lose to John McCain and his web of lies?

James, Philadelphia, PA

Nonsense. That was Obama's night - Hillary was on the hot seat so often I wouldn't be surprised if she weren't in the clinic for 2nd degree burns on her tush.

Mayo, Brooklyn, USA

Both Hillary and Barack are weak on defense; they'd tax air if they could (and do); the military loathes them; and they want to turn us into a complete nanny state. I couldn't think of two worst choices. Their attempt last night at loving each other was so contrived. Is it asking too much to have a candidate that puts the country before him/herself?

Liz, Phoenix, AZ, USA

The pick of the European residents will lose in the USA.<p>

To Europeans, the government is never big enough . To Americans, the government is already bigger that we want it to be.

Tony Alvarez, Alaska, USA

Hillary doesn't have a chance, she's too abrasive. Many Democrats hate her...very few Republicans would ever vote for her. Obama's got a better shot at the White House. If he does pick her as VP, I truly fear for his life! Too many people have met with unfortunate accidents while working around her. They always say the VP is only a heartbeat from the Presidency...in this case, it would be very true! God help us all.

Don, Fort Wayne, USA

Mr Baker, like many in our own media, appears to have fallen into the trap of thinking that unless there are "fireworks" it's not a valid debate. How unfortunate that even the writers for The Times are forgetting what civil political discourse should be.

Congratulations to both candidates. It is apparent that America is finally turning away from the darkness of the previous eight years.

Mike Nassour, Austin, TX USA

"the next President must definitely be a Democrat. the world is sick of Bush-like imbiciles."

Certainly, Al-Queda and the people of Eurabia would agree with you. Abu Laith al-Libi agrees, as well. Or he did...

DMO, Austin, TX, USA

They're both losers. The only difference is that he leads in likeability, and she leads in despicability!

gil, Villanova, PA

good read.
the next President must definitely be a Democrat. the world is sick of Bush-like imbiciles.

Toomy Hutton, Portsmouth, UK

The best solution for Democrats in November would be a "dream" ticket: Hillary for President with Obama as her running mate, or vice versa - depends who wins the nomination.

Janusz Zientak, Warsaw, Poland