I LOVE how people feel the need to include his middle name Hussein as an excuse to not give him the vote. Yea, his name middle name is Hussein, but that doesn't make him a Muslim (if that's what you're all worried about, which it probably is). So people, need to stop thrusting his middle name into discussions as if that is a valid reason not to vote for him.

Leila, Howell , NJ

If you need a president who has a potential to work hard then Hillary is the right choice. Electing Hillary has a benefit. Because Republicans will be waiting to see where she is going to fail. So she will be very careful and would not take anything granted. She will work hard and do good to people to gain the confidence of the people. Obama, the victory came without any accomplishments and effort. So he will think all he needs is to give a beautoful talk without doing anything. Be wise.

neutral Observer, trumbull, CT

Obama is a rhetoric speaker. He makes people feel good. He is a community organizer. He is one that can get the people going. My only concern is that he speaks a good game, but hasn't show one credible policy to back up any of it up. This popularity contest is going to allow the Republican Party to gain access to the White House for an additional 4 years. People, wake up!

Walter, Atlanta, GA

If inexperienced junior Senator Barack Hussein Obama gets nominated, there is 99% probability that Democratic Party WILL LOSE the 2008 presidential election to Republicans.

If experienced, doer and go-getter Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton gets nominated, there is 99% probability that Democratic Party will win the 2008 Presidential election!!!

So, if the Americans want to see REAL CHANGE ( not just the constant use of word "change" with every breath), Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton provides the real hope for prosperity in future for all the American Citizens.

DR N, Spencer,

Hillary Clinton's recent "attack" on Barack Obama is evidence of how weak her campaign is now, how desperate she feels in this race AND how low she is willing to stoop to gain votes and obtain a position of power.
First, as a current senator and wife of a former Governor and President, Clinton knows full well that politicians employ entire STAFFS of speech writers and, in fact, many presidents' inaugural addresses are written in total, or in part, by some one else. For Obama to use a concept or phrase in his speech that was first used by his own friend and colleague, and with whom Obama discussed the speech, is a NON-issue. For Obama to reply to the accusation, saying "I probably should have included Deval Patrick's name... etc." just SHOWS how much integrity he has and how Obama will NOT allow himself to fall into the childish game of "tit-for-tat" that Hillary Clinton is trying to goad him into playing.
Obama comes out smelling like a rose in this one...STILL!!!

Joan Zatorski, Tucson, Arizona

Funny, with all this political campaigning and the ongoing accusations of impropriety by the clinton camp. The theme that this is a "government of the people, by the people, and for the people" has take second place to Hillary's claims of being the best candidate. Makes me wonder what her priorities are.
Obama won the respect "of the people", was voted for "by the people" and seems to be speaking" for the people" in his campaign speeches, a message that has clearly resonated with millions of first time voters... Backroom deals with superdelegates to win a nomination do not sit well with voters.

LaRhue Williams, Monterey, USA/ California

Barack Obama and his campaign are up to this. Ok, he does appear a little duplicitous; but he's a man after all, not a demi-god, and a politician at that. Even if this damages his results a little in Wisconsin, the negativity of the Clinton attacks will soon take its toll. People want a winner, not a loser - and a sour one to boot. I think he's going to do well in Ohio and really well in Texas, and the superdelegate sydrome will not be an issue by the time they get to Denver. If Hillary is seen as complying with the Republican attack launced by Rove, all the worse for her. She's between a rock and a hard place. And there may she stay. Go Obama!

Mark Carlyon, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Barack Obama has used this quote many times before and given credit to Gov. Duval. It is not plagiarism. Clinton is trying the same tactic that was used on Senator Biden and took him out of a previous Presidential race.

She is showing her true colors -- Rove Republican Red. She is a desperate woman not fit to lead. She is alienating Obama supporters and others who will not be there if she wins primaries. Of course she and her campaign staff think we'll forget and she can spew out more lies.

It won't work because everyone knows Mr. Obama is not a plagiarist. In fact Clinton is far worse stealing and using all of Mr Obama's campaign rhetoric. Look for more Clinton Negative campaign tactics.

Jim Martin, Winter Park, Florida

I hope the political infighting between these two candidates doesn't harm the Democratic Party vote in the "real" election, which is yet to come.

Neil, Gloucestershire, England

Let's not bite the distraction. Sen. Clinton does not have a let left to stand on and is obviously looking for things to distract from that fact. She won't even come up with her own policies but instead have revamped Sen. Obamas and Sen. Edwards and a little of Ol' Bill. She finds her voice after listening to the speeches and views of others. I think she lacks originality. She's not exciting and is a bit jealous that she can't excite or motivate the voters like Senator Barack Obama can without effort. This whole argument is ridiculous and she needs to get back to running on her views of the issues... that is IF she actually has some. The sooner she realizes that this just isn't her time the sooner we can focus on getting the RIGHT candidate on the path to the nomination. If you have to resort to negativism and overly scrunitizing the words of others to win points with the voters OBVIOUSLY it reflect that she just has nothing else to say.

Rhonda, Erie, PA

I don't see this as desperation but instead shows Obama for what he really is - an empty suit.

He is standing on the basis of change. But there is no substance to his change.

However, when delving deeper one realises that he doesn't write his own speeches. He has to use someone else's words.

Hello, but doesn't change also assume that the person pushing for the change has something unique/different to offer. It's a given that by his colour, he would be different. But then by her gender, so too would Hillary.

Given both candidates are pushing for change - not a white man - and that equality should prevail, then Obama really needs to start saying something substantial, what he stands for, how he will be different.

Otherwise he is just a pretender.

In the end, it's a real shame that the one year there is a valid coloured and female candidate, they have to face off with each other.

For all the Republican's morale high ground they have no coloured or women candidates.

Paul, Toronto, Canada

Hilary has used former New York Governor Cuomo’s line about the “poetry of politics and the pros of governing” without attribution. So just what is she complaining about? I recall him using it often when I lived in NY. Now she a “transplanted” NYer is using it. Little did she know some of us would rember him using it.

Phil, Washington, DC

Listen he not only stole a speech! He also stole the PHRASE "YES WE CAN" from www.bobthebuilder.com just wait till that comes out...he'll be sued REGARDLESS of his color!

Cindie, new albany, usa/ms

have to say that personally i would feel safer with clinton in power - something about obama makes me uneasy. seems all too centralised on this whole 'change' thing. its not just the government at fault folkies its attitudes in general and it doesnt seem as if they have changed at all from the last election.

Hannah, Evesham, Worcs , UK

How desperate can she get? Hillary Clinton should focus on the real issues at this stage and stop this sort of guttersniping.
Barack Obama represents the very best opportunity not only for America but for the World. My wife and I wholeheartedly endorse his candidacy.
As for Karl Rove and the Republican snatch squads: well bring them on and expose them for what they are.

Nicholas, Dorking, Surrey

It's all irrelevant. Mysogeny and racism will ensure neither of these candidates ever enter the White House.

Tony, Bristol, England

Personally I think the woman is digging her own grave and in the process highlighting the fundamental difference between the two candidates. Clinton wants to become President at any cost for the prestige that office carries; Obama comes across as being more interested in the issues involved.

As for the plagiarising claim, so what? Provided he believes what he was saying and it does not depart from the policies he is selling, it doesn't matter who the author was. Indeed it might be argued that todays politicians are all guilty of the same thing and particularly so at the most senior level. Very few write their own speeches and merely expound the vote catching ideas of paid advisors in words skilfully crafted by professional authors .... including Hilary Rodham Clinton!

Richard Crow, Warsaw, Poland

Americans committed genocide on an estimated 12 million Indians to steal everything they had. A large slaving nation, they didn't abolish slavery until 1865. They then spent another hundred years operating an apartheid system of segregation on their black population. Up until the late 1960s, 22 million Americans couldn't vote because they were black. Apartheid, Slavery and Genocide. ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.' Any American, including black Americans will happily tell you that they have always believed in freedom. Now let me do something that no American has ever done, and think about that for a few seconds......

Dennis, Gaithersburg, USA

God bless Barack Obama.

Orhan Catan, Istanbul, Turkey

Doesnt really sound like Obama knows what he is doing.
Therefore the ideal candidate to follow George W!

Pete, St Albans, England

Plagurism? Speeches are not copyrighted. Anyway, what he said was true. Words do matter. Clinton is clutching at straws now, which is good. Rove has now been called in. Bring Rove on!

Krystal, Austin, Texas

OK, I am from the UK and therefore do not have a vote, but let me say that many here look to Obama to be a fresh start for USA. The world needs a President who represents a different view, who understands minorities better and who can be perceived by the world as having a better understanding of other countries.

Peter Forrest, Llanybydder, Ceredigion, Wales

Is it all worth it ?

Ian Payne, Walsall,

Actually Duncan, the Oxford English Dictionary defines it as "to take (the work or idea of someone else) and pass it off as one’s own". I do, however, agree that this is far from being a scandal.

A B, London, UK

Hillary must learn to loose with dignity. Very disappointed.

Jim O'Sullivan, Sligo, Ireland

Judging from the response in this forum, Clinton, under pressure, showed little foresight and poor judgement in resorting to this particular strategy. How would she respond to the greater pressures and more demanding issues she would face as President?
John C, Cork ex Liverpool

john Cullen, cork, Ireland

This is a desperate attack by Clinton in the final throes of defeat. Patrick and Obama are close friends and have been trading lines for years.

What about Clinton copying Obama's rhetoric? Plus she used what's called anaphora in her Jefferson-Jackson dinner speech "I see an America...." repeatedly which was originally from President, then Governor Carter's 1976 speech.

Doug, Aberdeen,

My God, what is this? Clinton and MCain are plagiarising Obama's speeches the whole time, and Obama never even mentions it. Is this a campaign issue or sheer jealousy? When we remove all the lines that Obama has used from his friend -- only three sentences or so -- Obama still stands as a remarkable, perhaps one of the greatest orators American politices has ever produced. This woman, whose husband turned his back on his own vice-president Al Gore with hope of returning to the White House, is bent on using every means to get there. Is it not exactly why the people are turning to Obama? Obama, do not allow these sleaze deter you. Come on, Obama.

Jesse Kally-Williams, Pratigau, Switzerland

Barack Obama.....just words!

James C, marbella, Spain

Don't know too much about US politics, but when you read about the disgraceful way in which Hillary Clinton behaved towards staff in her husband's presidential administration and dig into her career history generally it leaves a rather pretty unpleasant taste in your mouth. The words unprincipled, careerist and machiavellian spring to mind - a statement which, I dare suggest, most people in the UK would say applies to ninety per cent of our own politicians. As she herself has stated, she wears the trousers in her relationship with Bill, so in effect we can take it that she's already had her time as president, and didn't do too well at it.

Now Obama may well have a touch of the Machievellian about him too, but he represents something new and different, and has a number of qualities which lead me to believe that he would do a better job as president.

Equally I think McCain is a man of substance and could do a good job too, provided he can rain in some of the wackier neo-cons.

Arthur, London,

Shame, shame.

Vote Obama!

David MacKinnon, Amstelveen, Netherlands

I hope Obama wins this would be too easy , everyday He has more controversy around him , this is too funny , He copies another candidate verbatium and people still defend him , he used drugs , People still defend Him , He filp , flops , make promises and do not keep and lies , http://www.obamatruth.org/

this would be a great win for Mc cain

Henry , Hollywood , fl

It is now very clear that Hilary belongs to the "past" that Americans want to lay to rest? It is this past that kept a great nation in the hands of political mediocres for long. How does the use of a few phrases from a friend undermine the great rhetorical skill of a Harvard scholar, who was once the president of the prestigious Harvard Law Review?
Envy, pull-him-down, jealousy, tear-him-apart is the centre of the past and Washington. Clintondesperado. It is too cheap for a presidential candidate to stoop so low, and it shows that this woman smells her political demise.

Jesse Kally-Williams, Pratigau, Switzerland

They claim Mr Patrick said they could use the words - who knows!

If HC tells the truth about BO and loses then at least she has told the truth - the best way to approach anything.

Dominic, Teddington, London,

Is it just me, or doesn't the definition of plaigirism mean that you have to have done it without the originator's consent? If Mr Patrick did suggest using the phrases it surely can't be plaigirism.

Duncan, Beijing,

Many speeches are written by speech writers and candidates never call their names or give them credit. This is a very normal occurance. It is a shame to see the Hilary camp go for the Senator´s throat like this. I have never been anti-Clinton, but Hilary´s actions are indeed going too far. You go, Barrack, you go!!!

Andrew Vega, PhD, Los Angeles, CA

Oh MY GOD, this hyprocracy and desperation is just too embarrassing. I have Sen. Clinton on tape 'plagarising' Sen. Obama, Edwards and her own husband. Who cares? The real question is will she be able to bow out gracefully when the time comes or will she be as petty as Edwards with this pitiful attempt to manipulate from the political grave...Leave Clinton and Edwards and McCain to their pity, I mean, petty party and let's give Obama the job already!!!

kelly, indianapolis, indiana

IF Hillary wants to get into Quotes, lets look at RFKs attributed quote regarding the "Some men see things and say why" ...? Think George Bernard shaw used it earlier! Who cares......
Also, is the truth on drugs better than to stretch it with "I did, but i did not inhale!"
We do not have the time to toss out silly, goofy negatives on eithe side
I might well be wrong, but I think for once, the American Public will vote for someome that is fresh, honest, and someone who has a chance to pull Americans together to work on causes that are urgent, too long overdue, or shoved under the Political rug!

w Ortman, littleton, Colorado

It's people like Karl Rove and his league of supporters that drive the political distaste in this country. To try so hard to find a way to attack a candidate who is both promising and bright is about as low as anyone can get. A meeting with Mr. Rove and 75 members of the RNC to try to figure out the vulnerabilities of Senator Obama, means they all have too much time on their hands and accomplish very little. These nasty politics prevent serious discussions of trying to correct the ills in our government. Where is their love of the USA?

Deborah Oshman, Durham, NH

How pathetic, Hillary.

Matthew, Salt Lake City, UT

This is a sign of desperation. Where is the credit from Hillary about "Yes She Can" and "Yes We Will" and where that came from?

Give it a rest and get back to the issues already!

Sophie, Bentonville, Arkansas

I fully trust Hillary, I have compared the voting records of Hillary and Obama. Go to www.votesmart.org In 8 yrs. as Senator Hillary only voted NV 101 times and in almost 4 yrs as Senator Obama has voted NV 129 times. NV=present and did not vote or not present.
For the record, percentage of NV votes Obama=36%
Clinton=13%
(keep in mind that Senator Clinton has been a Senator twices as long, which makes her % even better)
www.votesmart.org

Rayeann, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

This is so silly........how many times have those words been used by how many people??? This just makes Hillary sound desperate. And she best not bet the farm on winning Texas. I will vote in the Dem. primary just to vote AGAINST her.

nelda bankston, buda, TX

It's alright for Obama and the media to bash Hillary all the time but if she goes at him for any thing then she is a horrible person. It just goes to show how biased this race has become. Go Hillary Go

Jean, Grand Junction, Co.

If words don't matter, if words have no power, then why should Hillary Clinton care or viciously attack anything Obama says. Obvioulsly, she is concerned about Obama's rhetoric and chooses to use such horrific words as "plagiarism"? We should not listen to her words either to go full circle.

Kathleen Lane, Richland, WA

This comes off as a petty, unwarranted attack on the part of the Clinton campaign, and it really doesn't help Mrs. Clinton's image of being negative, attacking, and divisive.

Barack's "plagarized" lines were from his friend who had himself suggested that the lines be used. Perhaps he should've cited, but it's really a very small thing, and he has the full backing of his friend in this matter as well.

It's unfortunate the Clinton campaign feels comfortable with this sort of smearing, negative politics.

Nick, Chicago,

The next thing you know, HRC will accuse Barack Obama of being black. Oh, wait, Bill's already done that.

BTW: For folks like Chris of Scotland who says that no one--I'm guessing he really means himself and some of his ilk--have no respect for anything or anyone American: Petty, insecure, jealous mind.

CK, Princeton, W.Va., USA

This is ridiculous. The Clinton attack dogs are at it again. The only things they have on Obama is that he "plagiarized" a speech (which he didn't do as he had the permission of his friend and colleague to use it), and that women are fainting at his rallies. That's it. With Billary, however, we have lying under oath, White Water, sex in the Oval Office, and the list goes on. This will backfire and will only serve to inspire more people to support Obama, who is one of the only authentic politicians running in this election.

Denise MacDonell, Halifax, Nova Scotia

If we Americans want more of the same government, then elect Hillary Clinton. If we Americans truly want something new, perhaps something to again believe in then vote for Barack Obama. I am 60 years old and this is the first election I have voted in that I have my first chance to vote for someone I want instead of voting against someone. ELECT BARACK OBAMA!!! Most countries in the world, other than the UK would like to see him be our next President.

conniekay, Florence, SC, USA

Wow, the Republicans are meeting because Barack Obama is too young, and Hilary Clinton's people are doing back flips trying hard to find fault with what he is saying and who should be credited for his remarks.

I wonder how often any of the other candidates give speeches in which the speech writers are given credit at the end, or quotes within the speech. If this is what Sen. Obama opposition considers an effect counterpoint attack, it also shows the hyporcacy of how they wish to change, and can do the job from day one.

Robert in Long Beach, Long Beach, USA/California

This is just a last ditch effort to distract voters from the drubbing she will receive tomorrow in Wisconsin.

nate, washington, DC

i am amazed that its OK for the Obama Campaign to attack Clinton but everytime she dishes out the same medicine, everyone wants to talk about how bad or how desperates she is.

GO back and look at the news programs, when she was well ahead in all the Polls everyone was wondering why isnt she slinging mudd, the new casters kept saying she is ahead and doesnt need too. Now when she points out flaws in her opponents, everyone wants to attack her

Adam , Columbus, USA/Ohio

I dont think people have time for frivolous excuses raised by the Clinton camp to campaign against someone of high calibre like Obama, Clinton cannot get my vote by using negative statements to campaign, obviously Hillary has used some of Obama's speeches during the course of the campaign. I think we should be fair and logical in our thinking style and not using derogatory statements against each other during campaign. Millions have turned out to support their candidate since the begining of the campaign, obviously Obama's momentum has motivated millions of people especially the youth. I beleive we cannot just over look this magnanimous leadership potential. GO OBAMA!

Sunny, San Diego , california

The Clinton campaign is really grasping at straws. She uses lines from the Obama campaign on a daily basis. She is looking more and more pathetic and desperate as this race goes on. I can not believe I ever considered voting for her.

Joe, Atlanta, Georgia

I was open to Hillary until this moment. She must really believe that Americans are stupid enough to believe her negative spin. Becausee she does not respect our intelligence, she is not thinking about people and cannot be a good president. I absolutely hate her!

beth ann, albany, ny,

Hillary is desperate and ready to attack anyone who contradicts her views. Nothing she says makes sense anymore. Did I really hear her judging Obama's speaches. What does she have to say about all past presidents' spoken words including JFK. Leaders have to have the gift to speak and inspire! She is angry scared to loose and very defensive. I am sad to see her so helpless and loosing it. Do we realloy want someone like Hillary to be the Commander in Chief? Obama has class and intelegence to focus on what he can do for the country rather than accusing others. I really got excited about Obama just in the past few days while watching the campaigne between the two. Both Bill and Hillary are getting back to smear campainging because that is what they know best. Your Bad Hillary! Stop it ! Do you really think we are tha damb? Republicans want Hillary because they know she can't win. They are afraid of Obama because they know he can. If you are a True Demo. vote for Obama!!

Sally, Ben Lomond, USA CA

The mere fact that everyone is fighting over this issue, tells me that Clinton is a divider and not a uniter.

Roger, Petersburg, USA/VA

Are you for real Hillary? Obama uses lines from his friend's speech who also happens to be his senior adviser and he is accused of plagarism. This is a sideshow to make Barack look like an "empty suit". I guess this will be apart of the "substantive debate she' demmanding

What no one has seemed to notice is that Duval(governor of Massachusetts) and Obama who are joined at the same political philosophical are both African Americans who ran positive and inspiring campaigns against white Democratic women who accused both of them of being all talk and no substance. Is this a stab at a racial stereotype placed against Black men that they can "shuck and jive" with a bunch of good talk but they can't govern and get anything done? Why isn''t that inquiry being made?

The Clinton campaign says this contest should be about solutions for the American people, but her campaign spends an entire day trying to convince voters that Obama steals his lines from his friends and inner circle. What?

Sean, Chattanooga, 37411

I once sat through DIversity Training for my job. The presenter was an African American man who graduated from Harvard. He came from poverty and through hard work and opportunity has made it. He described being told to study famous speeches from men like President Kennedy and Churchill. He had them down pat, even to the mannerisms and voice. Senator Obama reminds me of him. All talk. Nothing his own. We need to get by the talk and looks and look for substance and experience. Otherwise - reality. Has he served his country? Has he written any legislation; that is not being written by his staff or lobbyists?

Ronald Iocono, Middletown, Delaware

At least Clinton has enough respect for the United Farm Workers to NOT co-opt their "Si se puede" (Yes we can) slogan.
Dolores Huerta (who endoresed Clinton) originated it with Cesar Chavez in 1972.The Kennedys that endorse Obama are .....
The Kennedys that are actually doing great humanitarian work support Clinton (Kathleen Kennedy Townsend is the former
lieutenant governor of Maryland, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is an environmental advocate and Kerry Kennedy is a human rights
activist.)All Obama has are pretty words. He cribbed Clinton's health care plans, as well her ideas on making a change
with outsourcing labor.Obama's just as much of a part of "the machine" as he accuses Clinton of. His national finance
chair is BILLIONAIRE Penny Pritzker, whose family was embroiled in tax scandals in the 90s and his campaign manager was
the executive director of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee in the 1999-2000.
That's Experience we DON"T need.

Pete Rosa, Bronx, New York

I thought this needed to be said because it is further proof of how substantative Obama is compared to the fraud Hillary Clinton. I am tired of uninformed voters and HRC campaign posers trying to distort the facts? Please read the following information gathered from the Library of Congress. Feel free to check these records for yourself; better still, read a little more, and try and stay current before posting assinine comments:

Clinton v. Obama on Legislative Experience:
Senator Clinton, who has served only one full term (6yrs.), and another year campaigning, has managed to author and pass into law, (20) twenty pieces of legislation in her first six years. These bills can be found on the website of the Library of Congress (www.thomas.loc.gov), but to save you trouble, I'll post them here for you: 1. Establish the Kate Mullany National Historic Site. 2. Support the goals and ideals of Better Hearing and Speech Month. 3. Recognize the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. 4. Name courthouse after Thurgood Marshall. 5. Name courthouse after James L. Watson. 6. Name post office after Jonn A. O'Shea. 7. Designate Aug. 7, 2003, as National Purple Heart Recognition Day. 8. Support the goals and ideals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day. 9. Honor the life and legacy of Alexander Hamilton on the bicentennial of his death. 10. Congratulate the Syracuse Univ. Orange Men's Lacrosse Team on winning the championship. 11. Congratulate the Le Moyne College Dolphins Men's Lacrosse Team on winning the championship. 12. Establish the 225th Anniversary of the American Revolution Commemorative Program. 13. Name post office after Sergeant Riayan A. Tejeda. 14. Honor Shirley Chisholm for her service to the nation and express condolences on her death. 15. Honor John J. Downing, Brian Fahey, and Harry Ford, firefighters who lost their lives on duty. Only five of Clinton's bills are, more substantive. 16. Extend period of unemployment assistance to victims of 9/11. 17. Pay for city projects in response to 9/11 18. Assist landmine victims in other countries. 19. Assist family caregivers in accessing affordable respite care. 20. Designate part of the National Forest System in Puerto Rico as protected in the wilderness preservation system.
There you have it, the fact's straight from the Senate Record.
Now, I would post those of Obama's, but the list is too substantive, so I'll mainly categorize.

Queenie, San Ramon, California

During the first (8) eight months of his elected service he sponsored over 820 bills. He introduced 233 regarding healthcare reform, 125 on poverty and public assistance, 112 crime fighting bills, 97 economic bills, 60 human rights and anti-discrimination bills, 21 ethics reform bills, 15 gun control, 6 veterans affairs and many others. His first year in the U.S. Senate, he authored 152 bills and co-sponsored another 427. These inculded **the Coburn-Obama Government Transparency Act of 2006 (became law), **The Lugar-Obama Nuclear Non-proliferation and Conventional Weapons Threat Reduction Act, (became law), **The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act, passed the Senate, **The 2007 Government Ethics Bill, (became law), **The Protection Against Excessive Executive Compensation Bill, (In committee), and many more. In all since he entered the U.S. Senate, Senator Obama has written 890 bills and co-sponsored another 1096. An impressive record, for someone who supposedly has no legislative record. . . . My last point: Obama needs name recognition, he needs to be among the people, so people feel like they have access to him. HRC's debate challenge is more about the fact that her campaign is running low on money and she gets free air-time without spending anything. Would you give up the chance to see 20,000 voters up close and personal to be on a televised debate? No way! Obama, stick to your guns. Debate on your terms, not Hillary's! Go Obama 2008!

Queenie, San Ramon, California

As a grey-haired (white) grandma, Obama's honesty and kindness has my vote. Come on, Hillary, plagiarism of well known quotes? Tell me you write ALL your speeches yourself? It's a little hard to pay Martin Luther King...
OUT with attacks.... On with beating the Republicans.
Hillary, you would be much better on Supreme Court.
Let the Obamas win the white house... This is OUR future and the futures of our children/grandchildren--not old politics of the 90's

Lyn Cope, Melbourne Beach, FL

OMG!! I used to really like and admire Mrs. Clinton, but now, NO WAY! I'm SICK and tired of the bashing-to-gain type of politics, She is digging on nothing kinds of drama and making them into something in her own brain. She is really making herself look desparate and pitiful with the tactics she is using to TRY and save her campaign. I hope that America really takes a good look at her and how she is acting. As a matter of fact, she reminds me of a disgruntled 4 year old who is tattling to get revenge and is loosing because the parent (Obama) is calling her out on it!! I do not like her ways anymore, nor do I respect her anymore. I'll pray for her though. She needs it because she has turned into a cold soul.

Katieh, Virginia Beach, VA

Has Hillary EVER lifted words for one of her speeches?

Roger, Petersburg, USA/VA

Clintons need to open their Tax records . also do a search on " The Clintons Terror Pardons , & " Bill Clinton and Enron " , these people are owned and sold all of us Americans over the years for Votes , so if this is the Experience we are looking for then we will get more of the same .

Tony , Wickenburg, AZ

LouAnn from Tx made me laugh. Obama can't take the heat? Hillary is out shedding a tear here, and wiping a tear there because everybody is picking on her, and you think it's Obama that needs to get out of the kitchen? HAHA! typical Hillary supporter.

Ann, Des Moins, Iowa

Arthur Ide, RADCLIFFE, Iowa states: "She has earned the respect of most of the world...". You have to be joking! The rest of the world has no respect for anything or anyone American. Wake up and smell the coffee.

Chris D, Edinburgh, Scotland

Hans of Minneapolis - according to an article in yesterday's New York Times, the phrase "we are the ones we have been waiting for" was taken by Obama from Maria Shriver's LA endorsement speech - and credited to Hopi indians.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/17/opinion/17dowd.html?scp=1&sq=maria+shriver+%2F+hopi&st=nyt

Also, in the same edition of the NYT, an interesting article entitled "The Charisma Mandate".

laura, Winchester,

I can't believe this thing has legs....especially with videos of Hillary taking Obama's words...without permission. They hope that they can accumulate something to stick...all she does is go negative. She is building a baseless case in hopes to sway people..this is sick. I would never vote for Hillary. I wouldn't vote for McCain either...I'd keep my vote in my pocket. She trumps the invisible experience but when compared with senate Bills introduced Obama's is far superior in relevance. She speaks of solutions as if she has detailed something that Obama hasn't. Obama refrains from this pettiness as much as possible but this is crazy. No wonder Hillary is polarizing.

OBAMA O8---HOUSTON, TEXAS

MARIA, HOUSTON , TEXAS

Its a new day in America!! Its time for hillary to sit back and let the unifier of this Great country do his thing!! American people are not Dumb!! Hillary is Transparent!! The American people are fed up with being treated any kind of way! So go home Hillary and bake some cookies for Bill! and let the healing of America Begin!! Yes We Can!! Yes We Can!!

greene, Highland Park, michigan

I have grown to dislike Barack Obama and the crew that supports him so much that I, a Democrat since my teens, will vote for McCain before I will vote for Obama. Obama is a shameless fraud, he is all talk and doesn't have the experience or ability to accomplish one tenth of what he promises. He is totally unqualified to be president. I think after a Barack Obama presidency, we may look back on the GW Bush years as the good old days. As far as Edwards endorsing Obama, I am a staunch Edwards supporter, and have been since last summer. If Edwards endorses Obama it will shake my faith in Edwards' judgement to the core, and really make me question whether I should continue to support him.

Jennifer, Summerville, SC

Why can't Hillary stick to policy differences without bringing up insignificant false dirt. That is what we are sick of in politics, and that is why Hillary would be poor choice. BTW, she mentions that Barack gives speeches while she gives solutions... of course she says that during her speeches!!! Duh!! How dumb does she think her supporter really are? (Given the exit polls however, we do know Hillary supporters tend to lack education...) The truth is, both candidates have plenty of substance with solutions on their websites, but Obama has proven through his *words* that he can better energize people, which is required for change to actually happen. Meanwhile Clinton, hypocritically continues to offer just as much rhetoric in her speeches.

Dave Rossow, Los Gatos, CA

I have never seen a person so desperate to win a nomination that she will pull out all stops to make a person look bad and trying to make herself look good. The bottom line is: None of the presidents that we have had in the past have done what they said, John F Kennedy was an amazing president who had a HEART for the people of America. He could not solve all of America's problems, but he was fair in his decisions and ran the US the best of his abilities. He must have been doing something right because he died believing in the equality of the american people. Hillary Clinton appears to be selfish and only wants to make a point, that a WOMAN can run the white house.

I still believe that Barak Obama is REAL and yes, I believe that he will be fair and that he can make a significant difference. Hillary, I wonder what skeletons lie in your closet!

Melissa, Frisco, Texas

The Clinton's have Wolfson throwing anything they can at Barack Obama and demonstrates the kind of adminstration we would have if she were get elected. More of the Clinton drama, attempts to destroy anyone who doesn't agree with them or is preceived as getting in their way. I am certain that would include all of the American people she is now courting. We would be worse off than we are with Bush and I never thought I would have cause to say that. Also, I find it hard to believe that John Edwards has fallen to her courting of him given his stated views of her taking soooooo much money from special interests. If he endorses her he is making himself as big of a liar as she is. If he has fallen for her courting of him, he shouldn't trust any promises she has made to him, anymore than we can trust anything she says.
She has obviously unleashed her Attack Dogs and hopefully people are not as STUPID as she is counting on us being.

Mychoice, Folly Beach, SC

Obama is desperate to be president. While he attracts the young, a large number young people historically do not vote. It is said that the Clintons played the race card, but Obama said nothing when 90% of the blacks voted for him in SC. Obama has set fire to some, but the firestorm is one that is dividing the Democratic party so that it will be in shambles by November as Obama does not have the strength, ability, or intelligence to salvage it--he is a divider, not a uniter--very much like George W Bush. I am sorely disappointed in him, and as a lifelong Democrat, I realize now I could never vote for him under any circumstance. Hillary alone has new ideas and supports them with concrete plans. She alone could save the USA and its economy and reputation already soiled by Bush and Company. She has earned the respect of most of the world: Israel, Middle East Moslem states, and Europe. She is not a fad but a workhorse determined to right wrongs.

Arthur Ide, RADCLIFFE, Iowa

I am sick and tired of the clinton's camp nagativity. She needs to focus on the issues.

Lynette Johnson, Chcago, illinois

I find it very interesting that the Republicans would raise the "experience" issue on Obama.

The very first Republican President had a total experience in elected office of 8 years in the Illinois Legislature and one term, that is two years in the U.S. House of Representative. There are few that would argue that this limited experience seriously impaired the effectiveness of Abraham Lincoln as President of the United States.

Obama has 8 years experience int the Illinois Legislature and is in his 4th year as a U.S. Senator. That is almost twice as much experience in Congress as Lincoln brought with him.

And how much experience did George W. Bush bring to the job? He had a total of 6 years experience in government as the Governor of Texas. The Republicans did not express a whole lot of concern about the lack of experience that Mr. Bush brought with him.

G.W. Bush also brought Karl Rove and his say anything do anything to win mentality along with him to the White House

Lee Johansen, White Bear Lake, Minnesota

In puncto plagiarism:

Check out Ma and Pa Ferguson - in Texas, ca. 1925.
Seems that "Pa" had been impeached as governor and couldn't run again as a convicted felon.
He ran his wife Miriam - who won and served two terms.
Their camapgin slogan "Two for the price of one"

Sound familiar Hillary?????

Sara, FDL, Wisconsin, USA

Howard Wolfson be careful! Is your message “Kill Hope!”?

We are all on the same Team Howard? Your team is taking voters for granted by thinking all of Obama supporters will vote for Hillary after all the mud your team has thrown Obama’s way? After seven years of war in Iraq and afghanistan, We don’t need the type of war you are bringing to this election and its against fellow Democrats?

Hillary was better when she was standing on her own two feet without these attacks against fellow Democrats.

Yeil, Cincinnati , OH, USA

I watched the plagarism. He spoke word for word what the governor said. No matter how the news and Barack's camp attempt to spin this, it looks like he and his fellow Harvard classmate are empty suits mimicking the same speeches and ideas.

Brenda, martinez, Ga

HILLARY you have to be kidding me we never heard about your solutions at all up to this day.

OBAMA or nothing

LEWIS, CHICAGO, USA

Plagiarism is cheating. What would you expect a friend to say in the afterthought. If in school Obama would receive a grade of F. Two years ago a popular pastor resigned because he plagiarized a sermon. Obama needs to make less speeches and get with details. His speeches lack substance. He patterns himself after his pastor. Who is a racist. I heard him live and in person at my church. Obama needs to be portrayed for the sleaze he is.( his associates have been until his run for president) Cheating is cheating. He cheated on the speech. Don't tell me about Bill and cheating. Bill is not Hillary. Obama is not ready to be president. He is helping the Republican party. Can't you people see that? Look how he voted PRESENT. to help REPUBLICANS!!!!!!

Mary E. Anderson, Bartlett, TENNESSEE

Its a matter of trust.Hillary is tested,she is ready to go on day one.She has explained her plan to get us out of Iraq.She told us step by step how she will get 48 million Americans Health care.She has a plan to help Americans save their homes.All Obama offers are words.Words don't feed your family.Words don't keep a roof over your head.Words don't pay the bills.I trust Hillary,she will make a great President.

ken elvy, albany, oregon

I know the whole world is watching this election frizzy very closely especially Canada. Canada & USA are like twins joint at the hip! Whatever your people decide does affect us as well as the world. I will say this to those who are running for the position of the next President of USA; let's put out your best solutions to the present problems, which are, MANY serious problems need serious solution and the person who is best suited for the job. Let's the campaign managers on both sides stop pointing fingers and doing back slashing. This is not a game; it is not about you but about how America is going to go for the next 4 or maybe 8 years from Nov ’08. So bring your best solutions to the table so that people is able to choose for the best person for the job. Sex and color should not even be a consideration. This is an adult arena no children are allowed.

Anita Doo, North Vancouver, BC, Canada

I am a strong Republican, from the south, but I do not agree with the future attacks they will throw at Mr. Obama. As Americans we cannot accept this horrible talk from any party. Mr. Obama’s main goal is to unity everyone, yes I disagree with his moral standards, but I do believe that he has the answers to most of our problems, and that is bringing unity. Without unity NOTHING will happen, and division will continue to run deep. Just take a moment to think for yourself......! Do you want unity in your community, job, school life, life itself, solo, and mainly Country? Every day you lay down don't you think about someone else other then yourself? Do you help people? In order for true change to come, you have to change yourself first on how you view yourself, others, and life. The greatest commandment is to love God, then yourself, and others. I believe when Mr. Obama is speaking, he is speaking from his heart, because his head and heart are connected to unity. We have to believe that this man will do what is right. We cannot send another career politician back to Washington because we will get the same solution to the problem, division! Attacks+Partys+Political Careers+Lies=Division! America the time has come to make true change in yourself, others, community, county, state, and country! Let’s make it happen!

Lerner Edison, Fort Myers, FL

Why won't she release her financial statement like every other candidate has done?

johnzero, Portsmouth, NH

The American presidential race (particularly the Democrat race) is quite gripping from this side of the pond. Compared to our general elections it's truly watchable. I find myself scouring the broadhseets online daily to get updates.How easy it has been to get swept along with the almost mesmerising, emotion lifting speeches of Obama. How curious though that he isn't rising to Clinton's challenge of debates - surely a good forum to enlighten voters on your own policies/views. Hillary's speeches - not as Martin Luther King like as Obama's - are definitely grittier and the content more realistic. Perhaps, tomorrow, the people of Wisconsin will shake off the rhetoric framed rose tinted Obama spectacles and vote for Hillary's experience and realism - all people need that in their politicians!

Mike K, Brighton, UK

Give it a rest!! Barack Obama has as much right to use those words as anyone!! We all know who said them originally. This is hardly plagerism! Nonsense like this does not help the Clinton Campaign. Stick to the issues and let the best man/woman win.

Diane, Clifton Springs, New York

Here are some details from the Massachusesetts mandatory health care program which Clinton wants to make national:
"What are the costs? Costs are determined by family size to be covered, age of adults to be covered and income level. A single person must pay the FULL COST of insurance premiums if their income is greater than $30,636. A couple must pay the FULL COST of insurance premiums if their income is greater than $41,076. A family, 1 couple with one child, must pay the FULL COST of insurance premiums if their income is greater than $51,516, and so on. Government assistance is provided to those making less than the stated income level within each family size mentioned above. To get more information on the assistance provided, you may go to www.mahealthconnector.org . This assistance may be changing soon, as indicated by this recent article in the Boston Globe. www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/02/15/health_plan_rates_may_rise_by_14/
Below is a table with premium costs PER MO

J. Taylor, Plainfield, Vermont

hrc's campaign is truly laughable now, pack up and go home, you have lost the faith and confidence of a nation.

ashish kurani, san francisco, california

How low can Hillary get. So do we expect Obama to cite all his sources like a term paper. If that is the case, then you may as well forget about having any meaningful communication because every politicians speech will begin like this... Before I start my speech, I would like to say that I borrowed lines from John doe during his 1932 speech. I was also inspired from the words of xxx during his 1955 speech.

This is ridiculous. It sounds petty to say the least.

John Doe, La Crescent, MN

Politicians are the same, anywhere in the world. That's the gift of Democracy, the people have to choose the lesser of the Evil. Also someone who can build up a rhetoric, like Obama in this case.
Good Luck to the Americans and God save the World!

Vivek, London, UK

This is Hilarious. It was hilary who has been running around chanting her newly found slogan "YES WE WILL" -- sound familiar. Her campaign is pathetic.

Joe Johnson, Dallas, TX

We should elect that cute guy.
Who cares if he can do the job as long as he's cute.

hhkeller, New york,

Don't think for an instant that the Obama team would JUMP on Hillary using someone else's words !! Remember, Obama has a media giant backing him - Oprah - making his team much more powerfully extended than Hillary could ever dream. Too bad Oprah and her book clubbers couldn't get to the plagiarized speech before it was delivered....watch for the original author the speech come forward and deliver a heart-wrenching absolution of this; that he is honored that Obama used his words - yada yada. I used to like Obama - am now sick of him.

kate thomas, Lexington , ky

This is getting really pathetic of the Clintons. The constant smear campaign against a member of her own party is even more despicable than any Karl Rove tactic used against Democrats. The Clintons have lost every shred of respect I ever had for them, and I voted for Bill twice.

In a telephone interview on Sunday, Mr. Patrick said that he and Mr. Obama first talked about the attacks from their respective rivals last summer, when Mrs. Clinton was raising questions about Mr. Obama’s experience, and that they discussed them again last week.

Both men had anticipated that Mr. Obama’s rhetorical strength would provide a point of criticism. Mr. Patrick said he told Mr. Obama that he should respond to the criticism, and he shared language from his campaign with Mr. Obama’s speechwriters.

Mr. Patrick said he did not believe Mr. Obama should give him credit.

“Who knows who I am? The point is more important than whose argument it is,” said Mr. Patrick.

Terri, Plantation, FL, US

I wish there were some party statesman who could come to the rescue to stop the Clinton's slash and burn policies against fellow Democrats. Hillary Clinton has lost the nomination, although she seems unable to recognize the moment. On the contrary, she seems determined to try to break up the Democratic party. Perhaps this is the legacy for which she and her husband are fighting tooth and nail: the Billary that wrecked the party.

Jane G. Thomas, Shepherdstown , WV

The Clinton contribution to the tone of the democratic campaign grows more ridiculous by the day. It is unfortunate that the press contributes to this silliness by reporting this nonsense.

There are no substantial differences of policy and relevant "experience" between the two remaining democratic candidates (both junior senators, moderate-progressives). However, the emphasis on promoting a less divisive political climate by the Obama campaign is commendable.

Obama's emphasis on unity does not make exciting news, apparently, but it has earned my vote, and the votes of many other Americans who are disappointed with the destructive reliance on division to create political will for policy change.

Cheryl, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

Obama has gotten + press only. He's called a great orator; his words should be scrutinized. Hilary should take off the gloves and fight!

Patricia Welsh, Lexington, VA

The media is all over Hillary and Bill. It's about time Obama gets scrutinized

Patricia Welsh, Lexington, VA

Damn,
How deseprate are they? She must have felt entitled to thsi nomination. It ain't gonna happen. If anybody was sitting on the fence, come on over to Obama '08. I thought she had solutions. She's just politics as usual.

gloria, LOS ANGELES, california

She is playing the game the way it is supposed to be played. If the Obama machine cant put up with a little heat now, he should get out of the kitchen. This is play time compared to what will happen in the general election.

We need to remember, this is a job we are hiring for, and Hillary is the best PERSOn for the job.

We need action, not retorical 'hope".

Lou Ann Thomas, Irving , TEXAS

This is just pathetic on Hillary's part. Plagiarism is the unauthorized use of someone else's writings. Deval and Obama are friends and Deval gave him permission to use that that theme. Total non-issue

James, Los Angeles, USA

Many presidents have speech writers. Obama's phrase" we are the ones we have been waiting for" is his own writing. One Clinton' supporter (campaign) tried to start a rumor that this phrase was said by another community organizer who died at a young age. It is clear that Obama is a gifted individual, as rare as some oustanding poets and writers we encounter in our lifetime. His first book was written 100% by him in 1995. He spent so much time that his wife wondered if he could finish! It paid off.

Hans, Minneapolis , MN

The clinton are just desperate for power that's all. the time for change has come and Barrack is the man. Even if she wins the nomination she will loose alots of votes. How do you think bill clinton can go back to south carolina to talk to the black voters?. Bill i used to love you ,now you crossed the line. Go play golf

Daniel,yvelt, linden , nj, U .S.A

I think the "Clinton Machine" is desperate and the negativity of seasoned politicians will emerge on a consistent basis,the closer we get to the elction of a nominee.

I always like Hillary but now I see that she is absolutely no better than the republicans who tried to ruin her husband and all his friends with Whitewater.

I am truly disappointed in her tactics as she should not tread where she once was trodden

Sandra Black, Houston, , USA, TX